#And I just have to sigh then explain the garden of eden to them...

[manybrokenquills]

hey guys, again, I don't know why you're surprised, we're just writing more fanfiction off the Bible, which is fanfiction within itself.

[deadghosy]

“WHO ARE YOU?”

ADAM X ANGEL! READER

🦆Sorry if it’s long lol, I got inspired by the song to make this ✨

A echoing lullaby goes around the garden of Eden. Waking up a male human who was taking a rather long nap as his eyes open.

Adam, the first man was sitting under a tree sighing as his memory of his first wife leaving him strikes him. He never thought he would be left like that as he oddly felt sad but also felt nothing as he didn’t know how to control his emotions. But then the echoing lullaby broke him out of his train of thought.

He shook his head, thinking it was just nothing. But the echoing of the melody got louder, and louder, and loud in his head to the point it was like a siren calling out for him to follow the voice. He looks up to see a beam of light strike down. Everything rumbles, making the first man fall to his stomach at the powerful shake.

Adam coughed, sitting up as he dusted himself off and stood up fully. He walked through the garden, following the enchanting melody. He closes his eyes, feeling as if the melody swirled around him. Making him him feel like dream as he flutters his eyes.

“What…is that…?” Adam asked himself as he blinked amazed at what is happening. He couldn’t believe it as he is thinking it’s a blessing from god himself.

He finally reached the section of the garden as the beam of light vanishes in a blink before it started to act weird.

The light flickers from behind the tree branches covering the view of what could be behind the cause of this blinding light and melody voice calling out for him. He lets out a breath and lifts up the branch.

He sees a glowing figure, the figure glowed so bright like the stars as the figure’s face was covered by the light that arises from its own body. He had to blink a couple of times to get use to its light.

“Who are you?” He says in a low tone to not scare whatever it is. The figure was in a sitting position, having their knees close to their chest as four pair of wings spout out of their back. Even head wings as a blinding light covers their face, making them faceless at some point. They turned to the man as they stood up, the light getting brighter as a sun in the sky. They seemed to be naked as their breasts/pecs were most noticeable in features from the light that Adam couldn’t bear much long to stare.

“Do not be afraid..”

The voice whispers, but the whisper sounded loud as Adam suddenly passes out by a bright light. He wakes up to see everything practically normal as he touches his eyes to see if anything went on with him. But there was nothing, it was like the figure wasn’t even real to say. It kinda scared Adam before the lull sky rolls in his head calming down any thoughts in the first man’s head as he heard bushes rustling to see a lady. Who he must assumed was his new wife, Eve.

Years pass as that same melody echos in his head every time he thinks about you. Usually when Adam feels pissy, that melody calms him down out of nowhere. When he feels happy, it hums in his head. When he feels sad..which is never really an issue to be sad in heaven, he would hear it softly.

It’s gotten to the point he talked to sera about it, but she didn’t really know either. That made Adam get angered as the lullaby lulls in his head making him calm down. Sera sees Adam relaxed oddly after showing his anger towards her. He found it odd at how he could calm down that instantly. That’s when sera finally realizes what’s going on.

“$!@$&/&” Sera tries to say but she grabs her throat. It was like a barrier got caught in her throat, preventing her from saying the truth.

Adam raised a brow at her, “what? You got imaginary dick in your mouth or somethin'?” He asked as sera has a panicked look trying to explain. But only nothing came out.

“Listen, if you wanna fuck with me. Then fine. Bye bitch.” He said flipping her off as sera just screams in silence gaining weird looks. Adam walks through the streets of heaven pissed off. He knew he wasn’t going crazy as he literally heard it from afar and not in his head most definitely. Lute came by him, “Sir! Sera wanted me to make sure you are alright.” Adam rolled his eyes at the angel solider beside him. “Well, tell her I don’t need to be checked on. I’m the first man for Christ sake! I can handle whatever the fuck is going on with me.” He says before flying off from Lute. She scrunched her face a bit before sighing. She also flies away.

It’s now night time as Adam sighs sitting in his bed. He couldn’t get the soft lullaby out of his head…it sucked for him as he gripped his fist, feeling the sharp nails in grave into his own palms. He lets out a shaky breath as he swore he felt eyes on his back. He turned around to find nothing there. So why did he feel paranoid? He didn’t know why but it sucked mad ass as this is heaven for crying out loud. Why should he even be paranoid. He scoffed at his own thoughts and laid down. Not knowing someone was coming to visit him.

A light shines from his ceiling making Adam squint his closed eyes at the brightness. He slowly opens his eyes to see four pair of wings sprout out gracefully as a hum enters the room. It was like a huge hug around Adam’s bedroom as the figure has their hands in a praying gesture “Do not fear.” The figure says as they slowly flew to Adam who is laying down with a “wtf” face as the light blinds his eyes. Adam sits up seeing the light had dimmed a bit as he stares into the “face” of the person he so longed to see after years. His eyes widen to grab your cheek. He felt that is was real as an echoing hum enters his tears that he heard for so long. He couldn’t believe that it was you as you slowly brought up a hand to touch the side of his face. Adam softly leaned it in, making him feel as if this was back when he first met you. Even if you practically ran away from him, it felt nostalgic to have you by him.

“Hello Adam…” you said with a loud whisper. The whisper sounded soft but harsh as Adam looks at you confused. “Who are you?..” he asked like the first time he did. You seemingly smile behind your “light” mask as you tell him your name. “ I am no one….but you can name me…” Adam scoffs but then starts to think of a name that would fit you. As he stares at you, he notices this time you aren’t naked like how he first met you. You were in a full pure white gown. “How about Y/N? How does that sound?” He asked with a smirk, proud of the name he gave you. You hummed softly with a nod liking the name he gave you.

The whole night you two talked like old friends who had plans to go out. It was exhausting for Adam as he just wanted it sleep, but he felt awake listening to you as you talked in a soft tone that could easily put him to sleep. It was like he could talk to you for hours. Yes he made some harsh remarks and comments like he usually does. But he listened and respected when you talked. It was like you had a leash on him to control on how he acts at least. Suddenly a bell rang from your watch as you stood from his bed. It was time for you to go.

“Goodbye Adam…” Y/N says as their wings sprout, making a circle above their head. Adam’s eyes widen going to grab them to make them stay. But he failed as Y/N made a praying hand gesture, their light getting brighter.

A glowing light blinded Adam as he covers his eyes. As he stopped rubbing his eyes, he looked around his room to not find the glowing figure anymore as he scoffed. But the sight of your appearance made him softly smile. He could still hear the echoing lullaby in his head as he lays down in his bed.

With one mutter of a word, he whispers the name of the figure he made for, “Y/N.”

[thethingswedotomorrow]

Aziraphale and Crowley are both idiots, with a severe lack of common sense on any given day.

But these idiots were both tasked with watching and guiding the new humans God had created, for better or for worse. What they didn't realize was just how unprepared they both were for this task.

Before being sent out to Eden, they were BOTH given a crash course on the newest creatures, (humans??) roaming around the garden. Just the essentials, don't poke here, this does that, avoid this bit, this part leaks, etc.

Aziraphale's lesson was much more formal, only highlighting the parts of the humans that were deemed 'essential' by the Archangels

Having to sit through Gabriel explaining the purpose of a tongue for hours was enough to make anyone zone out, let alone a principality who had just been told that the place he was being sent to would be full of creatures that were filled with an odd combination of liquid at all times. Good Lord, how was he meant to protect these humans when they could explode at any time?

Aziraphale had checked out mentally by the time they started covering exactly what the eyebrows were for

Hell decided to take a more hands-on approach.

By hands-on, they meant having Dagon draw what they assumed a human might vaguely look like, and then explaining the best ways to torture the squiggly bits

Crowley spent most of the class trying to decide whether the drawing looked more like a horse or a soggy blanket crumpled into a pile

(Crowley had only recently learned about the 'horse' idea, and he was decidedly not impressed by them.)

(He could get behind this blanket idea, however. He'd have to check that one out in a few years.)

So once they'd both reached the Garden, and checked the place out for themselves, they both came to the same conclusion.

They had some SERIOUS questions about what was going on here

Naturally (and reluctantly for one of them), they gravitated towards each other. They both knew asking either of their sides would imply that they didn't pay attention to the classes. And neither of them wanted to have a repeat lesson, thank you.

"Ah, yes, hello, Crawley was it?"

"Obviously, still me. Be odd for me to be someone else, wouldn't it?"

"Yes, well. I was wondering..if you had..perhaps....noticed anything about these humans?"

"Noticed what? They're awfully boring. Told me 'get up there and make some trouble', but all they do is sleep and eat things and walk around. Made 'em trip a few times, but it got old by the 5th time around honestly."

"Well I don't think they're meant to do much more. If they were, then they would have. As is God's plan. Oh there is no need for dramatics Crawley."

It was at that point Crawley sighed VERY aggressively, flopped down onto a rather soft looking patch of grass, and looked up at Aziraphale.

"Was there a point here, Angel, or have you just come to preach?"

"I do wonder, however, if God was perhaps made aware of the issues in the hardware, as it were."

"What are you on about?"

"Yesterday, I saw Eve walking around, admiring all the plants and such. They really are truly beautiful, you know. Have you seen them yet?"

"Nah, haven't gotten over there yet. Mostly been hanging around on the rocks, very warm there. Why? What'd she do?"

"Well, she walked up to the flowers, and..then she just..sort of...." Aziraphale trails off, very hesitant about how to describe the situation.

"Sort of what?" Now Crowley is curious. Always been his downfall, that sort of thing.

"She just... she stuck her face into them."

"She WHAT?"

"Exactly! Stuck her face into them, no warning or anything. That poor, poor woman could have been killed. Who knows what those flowers will do to her tongue."

"HER WHAT?"

It was at this point that they both realized that they may not have gotten the same education on the humans and their anatomy.

"So, they aren't actually going to explode? Oh thank God."

"Well, I mean they could, I suppose. If you poked them enough, or shook them up really hard. Y'think we should try that?"

"Crawley, no."

Between both of them, they gathered enough information about the humans to have a general idea of what they should and shouldn't do to help them survive

(Crowley might enjoy watching them trip, but he's a Demon, not a monster. There'd be no point going and killing them right after they launch the whole program.)

It turned out that what they had gathered between Heaven and Hell was quite literally the bare minimum of human physiology.

They stuck together from then on, determined to find out everything they could about the humans.

The first time Eve sneezed after smelling the flowers, Aziraphale jumped up so quickly that he broke the rock he was using as a seat clean in half

Crawley and Aziraphale stood perfectly still on the wall, waiting for something else to happen.

All Eve did was sniff a bit and walk away.

Aziraphale turned to Crowley, eyes wide and full of terror. They both stared at each other for a few minutes before they both silently sat down, contemplating what they had assumed was a very near-miss explosion.

The next day, when Adam stepped into the pool of water at the edge of the Garden, the angel and demon watched with the utmost attention.

"D'ya think they can breathe in there?"

"In the water?"

"Yeah, those slimy things at the bottom seem to be doin' just fine without coming up top. Maybe the humans can do that too."

"Crawley, those are fish. The humans need the air to live. I think."

"Fiiiiiish? Fsh. Fiisssshhh. Nah, don't like that. Slimy things works better, who names these things? Was it you?"

"I'm afraid that was not my department, unfortunately. I like to think I would have gone with a different choice than 'fish', if I had any say in the names."

"Mm. He's been down there for a bit, yeah?"

"Who? Oh, him. Has he? Oh. Oh Lord, he has. Adam? Adam?"

One small miracle later, the humans and the non-humans had both learned that they did need the air to live.

The day Eve and Adam laughed together was a good day.

'What're they even laughin' at?" Crowley wiggles/walks* his way over to where Aziraphale is sat on the edge of the wall, watching the humans.

*He's still figuring out the whole leg thing, far too complicated if you ask him

"If I had to guess, I'd say they're laughing at the state of Adam."

"How'd he even get like that? Last I saw, he was running around near that pond, how's that happen? They were on your watch, Angel."

"Ah, while you went to look at the plants, he fell. Apparently when dirt and water mix, it becomes very sticky. Mud, I believe it's called."

"Blegh. Way to go Angel, I left for five minutes and you let him get all mud-ed. Looks awful, don't see why they're laughin'. They've always got somethin' stuck to em."

Despite his words, Crowley couldn't help but smile at the humans. Something so ridiculous and they stood there laughing at it, having all the time in the world to explore and find out new things.

Aziraphale noticed this, and smiled as well. Mostly because of the humans and how fond he was already of them

But also, at Crowley and a new type fondness for him, as well.

(Though it would take many, many years for him to admit that)

Crowley and Aziraphale sat and laughed, watching these new humans bumble around and laugh, being happy to just exist and discover everything there was to discover. If Crowley snuck glances at the angel while he was laughing, he'd never admit it.

Maybe tomorrow, Crowley thought, he'd see what the deal was with that big apple tree.

[hoomandoescosplay]

Eternally Yours | Lucifer Morningstar x Reader Oneshot

The Garden of Eden is truly a paradise. All the plants and flowers are vivid and beautiful, and have a sweet fragrance.

As I sit on the grass I take a deep breath of the pure air before focusing my attention on the wildlife around.

It feels as though everything is in harmony with me. And Adam of course. I glance over at him walking around observing all the nature as well.

He has walked quite far away so it’s hard for me to fully see him.

My eyes dart to my side as I see some sort of creature with a yellow beak nudge into my thigh.

Its beak feels soft to the touch when it nudges against me. Its head tilted to one side, chirping with curiosity as it looked up at me.

“And what kind of creature might you be?” I ask out loud. It tilted its head again and chirped once more.

Whatever reply it was giving me was gibberish to my ears but it certainly was an adorable little creature.

I pick it up and pat it on the head gently as we both just continue to stare at one another.

After a few moments I jump at a sudden voice coming from behind me.

As I jumped with surprise at the voice, I instinctively tightened my grip on the creature.

“I call them ducks.” The voice says, causing me to turn around.

The creature squirmed slightly but didn’t cry out in pain or discomfort. Suddenly the voice spoke again.

“Oh my, I see I have arrived during a very adorable moment.” As I make eye contact with him I immediately recognize the man. It’s Lucifer.

I glance towards Adam’s figure before looking back at Lucifer. “I don’t think you should be here. Adam won’t be happy.” I say slightly louder than a whisper.

He gives me the most innocent look he can pull off before saying, “What, me being here is surely not a problem. I have just come for a friendly visit.”

The expression on his face says that he knows that’s complete bullshit, even though his tone was polite and sincere.

“He told me I shouldn’t talk to you.” I admit. Adam never explained why he didn’t like Lucifer or why I shouldn’t talk to him.

I’ve never questioned him or what he’s told me. All I know is that I was created for Adam and I should do everything in my power to be his equal and keep him happy.

Lucifer’s lips curl up in a mocking grin at those words. “Did he now? But I see nothing wrong with just a friendly chat to pass the time.” And he chuckles again as he takes a seat next to me.

I hum out as I think. “I suppose you’re right. A friendly conversation never hurts anybody.” As I finish saying this I give him a small smile.

His grin only grows as I hum out my agreement. “So.. What’s your name? I don’t think Adam ever mentioned it.”

“My name’s (Y/N).” I pet the duck some more as I respond.

He chuckles a little bit as he sees me petting the duck. “Aww, my little duckie seems to be enjoying your attention.”

He leans over a little to give the duck a little pet as well. “I’m Lucifer, Lucifer Morningstar.”

“Well it’s nice to officially meet you.” The duck chirps at all the attention it’s receiving.

“Same here! So, how much of paradise have you explored already? Has Adam shown you everything?”

I glance away, focusing on the duck. “He actually doesn’t like me leaving this area. He says it’s safer for me that way.”

Lucifer looks a little shocked at that. “He doesn’t let you go anywhere beyond this? This place is big though, but I can’t imagine staying just here and not seeing the whole of paradise!”

I sigh as I look at him when I speak this time. “I’m curious what the rest of the garden looks like. It must be absolutely gorgeous. But I was told to listen and trust Adam.”

“You’re missing out on the rest of this wonderful place! If I remember correctly, there’s even a pond and a beautiful waterfall in the middle of it. How’s that for gorgeous?”

My eyes sparkle as I hear Lucifer talk about the other parts of the garden. “Really?”

“Oh absolutely, and it’s definitely worth seeing!” Lucifer looks at me, matching my excitement.

“And.. I might know a way we can get there and look at it without getting Adam angry. A little sneak out, if you will.” He adds.

“Oh I would love to see it.” I then glance back at Adam and see he’s starting to make his way back over to where we are.

I frown slightly. “I guess we can’t go today though.”

Lucifer follows my line of sight and also sees Adam coming back. He raises an eyebrow as he watches Adam come closer.

“What a shame. Now it seems we won’t be able to go today. But, hey…”

Lucifer smiles widely as he leans in. “I said we won’t be able to go today... But, that doesn’t mean we can’t go any other day. Maybe tonight, when it’s dark and Adam’s asleep, we can sneak out and explore together?”

I juggle the thought in my mind for a while and glance back sadly at him. “I don’t know. That would be more than just a friendly conversation.”

Lucifer smiles at me even as I declined his offer to sneak out tonight. “I know it would be more than friendly, but I understand.”

I pause to glance at Adam again before directing my attention back to Lucifer. “How about this? Give me a day or two to think about it. When you come back I’ll have an answer for you.”

He nods as he hears my counter-offer. “A day or two, eh..? Alright, you have yourself a deal. I’ll come back tomorrow at this exact same spot to see what you’ve decided.”

We share a small smile before he turns himself into a snake and slithers off to be undetected by Adam.

As Adam comes back, he takes note of the duck in my arms. He frowned at the little creature.

“(Y/N).” His voice was very serious and firm, but I could also tell there was hurt hidden in it as he said my name. It was almost as if he was disappointed.

“Yes Adam?” I ask confused. “Is something wrong?”

“Where did you get the duck from?” His face was still stern and serious, but he had moved on from looking hurt to looking like he’s angry.

It’s clear he’s upset at me for having the animal, but why? I don’t understand what’s so wrong about this wonderful creature.

“It just wandered my way.” I hold it up for him to look at a bit closer. “Isn’t it cute?”

Adam takes a closer look at the duck. He squints at it and seems to size it up. It takes him a few seconds before he speaks again.

“Get rid of it. Actually no, I’ll get rid of it. Give it to me (Y/N).” He says as my eyes widen. “Oh, I- can I not keep it?” I ask meekly.

Adam seemed to be getting increasingly irritated by my attachment to the duck. He frowned more as I asked for permission to keep it.

“No.” He says firmly. He holds out his hand to her, waiting for me to hand him the duck.

I hand the duck over hesitantly. As Adam grabs the duck it chirps confused and I can feel my eyes start to well up.

He walks over to a bush farther away from where I stay and places it down. The duck refuses to move and just stares at me.

After a slightly forceful shove the duck eventually walks further into the garden.

As the duck walked away into the distance, Adam stayed right there and stared at where it went. His eyes were narrowed in a glare. He was definitely irritated, maybe even angry.

He didn’t move until he was certain the duck was far away enough. At which point he turned and started walking back to me, his expression still firm and upset.

─── ☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ ───

My head was spinning with worry and doubt, questioning whether or not he was even going to show up at all.

He said he’d be back in two days and now it is the fourth day.

Everyday I made sure to sit in the exact spot as last time, keeping my eyes on the direction Lucifer slither away.

As I sat there, alone and waiting on Lucifer, I noticed that the garden was just not the same anymore.

Adam had gone exploring, as was his habit. But without the little duck, I began to feel lonely.

It was a strange feeling, especially since I had gotten used to staying here all day, everyday, by this point. But just now it felt wrong.

I couldn’t help but think that my mind was going a bit crazy waiting for Lucifer.

I had been waiting for two extra days than we agreed upon, and it was getting to the point where I was questioning my own sanity.

It was so out of character for me. I had never broken the rules once - and now I’ve been waiting on the edge of my seat for Lucifer to return.

I lay down on my back just staring up at the sky and clouds as I let out a sigh. I begin to close my eyes and just listen to the sounds around me.

Eventually, the light dims causing me to open my eyes confused. As I do so I’m greeted with Lucifer’s face peering down at me and a smile forming on my lips.

He leaned in close, staring down at me, his eyes locked on my own. The warmth of his smile was comforting like a warm blanket.

He looked like a shining angel under the sunlight with that radiant smile.

He had come, like he promised he would. I had thought he had forgotten me, but here he was.

“Hi.” Is all I could say to him as we continue to stare at each other.

A soft and almost angelic laugh escapes him seeing my reaction. “Hi indeed.” He walks around to my side as I sit up. He extends his hand out to me, helping me stand up.

There was a mischievous glint to his eyes. “Glad you waited for me.”

I let go of his hand after I'd completely stood up and dust off my dress. “I was thinking you wouldn’t show up.”

“Well, I told you I would. And I’m a man of my word. I am sorry I was late though.” He puts on the most genuine smile that he can manage, all the while his eyes are full of mischief.

“So, have you thought about my offer yet?” Wanting to mess with him a little I stayed silent for a while. “Hmm, you know I think I need more time to think.” I tease.

Lucifer’s cheeks flush a little in embarrassment as he realises that I’m playing with him.

This makes him grin widely. “How much time do you need? Tomorrow? Day after that? A week?”

“How long would you be willing to wait for me?” I ask.

I then immediately get shy as I don’t know where that came from. I’ve never spoken like that before.

“For you? I’d be willing to wait all eternity if need be.” Lucifer speaks without hesitation, and without any sign of exaggeration.

It makes me wonder, is he being honest? Or is he just teasing me back, in turn?

I smile at him. “Tonight we can go to the waterfall. If that still works for you of course.”

Lucifer gives me an excited grin at the news. “Of course it works for me. It works extremely well for me.”

He then leans in closer to me, a small devilish grin on his face. “Are you excited?”

I realize I don’t mind being this close to him. Whenever Adam tried to get close to me like this I never liked it. But with Lucifer? It feels so different.

“I’m so excited.” I beam at him not being able to contain my excitement. A devilish sparkle is in his eyes as he smiles back at me.

“If you’re so excited, how come you’re not jumping up and down?” He teases her playfully.

That makes me laugh. “I’m obviously saving the jumping up and down for when we get there.” Lucifer chuckles along with me at my playfulness.

“But surely you can’t keep still right now, can you?” As if to demonstrate, he moves his hand to my waist and pulls me ever so slightly closer.

“You’re too excited for your own good. I can feel the energy coming off you.” I immediately feel my face heat up as I’m not sure what to say in response.

He lets his fingers trail up from my waist to my chin, and his thumb traces the curve of my jaw for a moment. “Aww, look at you. All flustered.” Again, he gives me that devilish little grin.

I lean into his touch slightly. After a moment I feel his hand tense slightly as I look up at him to see his eyes shift to look behind me.

I turn my head to look as well and notice Adam is coming back earlier than usual. Lucifer lets out a sigh.

The devilish sparkle in Lucifer’s eyes disappears as his face hardens into a serious expression as he watches Adam walking towards us.

“Ahhh damn it.” He groans under his breath as he pulls away from me. “I guess we have to cut this short. I’ll be back tonight around midnight.”

“Alright. I’ll see you then.” I give him a small wave before he disappears into the garden.

─── ☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ ───

Adam falls asleep quickly after the sun has gone down. After I’m sure he’s asleep I sit up to help keep myself awake.

I’m not sure how much longer until midnight but I wait patiently doing my best to stay up.

Every minute seemed like an hour and every hour like a day, but eventually, midnight rolled around.

The moon was visible in the night sky, brightly filling the darkness, and it was about as bright as it was going to get.

Lucifer appears in the distance, making his way towards me once again. “You’re still up? Impressive.”

“Impressive and very hard to accomplish.” I reply as I yawn. He reaches out his hand and I take to pulling myself up.

He chuckles. “Well, I’m glad you did. Because now we have the whole night ahead of us.” He takes her hand in his and brushes his other hand through her hair.

“So, are you ready to go see the waterfall now?” I grin at him. “So ready.”

He chuckles as he squeezes my hand a bit. “Then let’s go.”

He starts to lead me through the garden towards the waterfalls. We walked down a slightly hidden path for a little while before stepping into a clearing.

The waterfall was right ahead of us. It was so beautiful with the moonlight casting shadows, and the water making lovely and tranquil sounds as it dropped down.

My eyes light up at the view and a wide smile forms on my lips. “This is absolutely stunning.” I squeeze his hand slightly from excitement.

The moonlight hit Lucifer’s face making him look even more angelic as he beamed at my compliment. “It really is. It truly is amazing.”

He gazes at the waterfall for a few moments, taking in the sounds and the sights. “It’s even prettier with you here as well.” He leans in closer to whisper in my ear.

My face flushes and I giggle. “Come on, let's get closer to the water.” I pull him along as we get to the edge of the water and take a seat.

I let go of his hand to reach out and touch the water. Afterwards we sit in silence for a while admiring the view and the tranquillity of the night.

“Why didn’t Adam want me to see other parts of the garden?” I wonder out loud. I notice his body language and expression soften as he lets out a sigh.

"Well. The main reason he didn't want you exploring other parts of the garden was because there were things he didn't want you to see." He looks down at the ground for a few moments as if he's pondering something.

I look at him confused. “Like what? If it’s anything like this then why hide such beautiful things?”

Lucifer makes an apple appear in the palm of his hand. “This is the fruit of knowledge.”

I continue to stare at him more curiously now. I can tell he’s reluctant to say any more but he sighs and continues.

“It's a little bit complicated. If you eat this, there will be some things you'll know that you may not be ready for. You can't turn back once you eat it."

I study his face, trying to get a glimpse of some extra information, any advice at all. But his expression doesn’t give me any hints.

I reach out to take the apple from his palm. If he felt a need to tell me about this fruit of knowledge then I trust him.

“Just remember, you can’t take it back once you’ve eaten it.” He says softly, almost whispering.

I nod, taking one last look at the apple before bringing it up to my lips and taking a bite.

As I take a bite of the apple a sudden wave of knowledge comes over me. Everything makes so much more sense now.

Why Adam never wanted me to talk to Lucifer, why he didn’t like the ducking, why I was created. The whole reason I was created was to be a better made version of Lilith and Eve. All of it is finally coming together.

I was starting to understand things at an even deeper level, things that no one has ever thought to explain to me before.

“Why does Heaven want us to be shielded from this knowledge? It’s so… it’s so fulfilling to know I have the mind to make my own choices.” I say trying to wrap my head around why I was so shielded from this.

As I look at him he looks proud, proud that I’m an equal with him now. “Because they think we can’t handle it.” He responds. “We’re supposed to just do whatever they tell us with no regard for our own free will.”

“That’s not fair.” I whisper out sad that humanity is supposed to have a date like that.

“It’s not.” His voice is now tinged with frustration. “We should be able to make our own choices with full awareness of the consequences. If you had free will, there is no reason you shouldn’t have a full knowledge of that free will.”

He looks down at the waterfall for a moment to gather his thoughts. “You deserve to have the choice without being kept in the dark about certain things.”

“Thank you. Thank you for helping me realize this.” I grab his hands in my own to show how much I appreciate him.

Lucifer wraps his hands around mine, taking comfort from the warmth.

He looks down at our hands and his expression softens. His voice is tender when he speaks back to me.

“You deserve it. Anyone does. Knowledge is the most valuable thing one can possess, and you were robbed of it for too long.”

“I don’t- I don’t think I can go back to Adam knowing all of this.” I start to worry. “What will happen to me? The same thing that happened to Lilith and Eve?”

Lucifer seems to have been anticipating this question. He lets out a sad sigh as the expression on his face turns somber.

"Yes. You will most likely get cast from the Garden of Eden just the same as Lilith and Eve were." His eyes drift to the horizon for a moment as he thinks of ways to comfort me.

"But,” He gazes back at me with a gleam in his eyes. "If you come with me you’ll be spared of most of the pain that comes with being cast from here.”

My eyes dart over his whole body until they end up looking back at his own eyes. “I can do that?”

Lucifer's expression softens even more as I ask him that very important question. "Yes. You most certainly can." He says with a smile.

His eyes search mine, hoping this is the thing I really want. "Just say the word, and you're free to leave with me and never come back."

“It will cost you a lot. And it’s nowhere as pretty as this.” He adds making sure I fully understand.

I grab his face in my hands and kiss him. As I pull away I stare at him with such a fond expression. “I’m eternally yours Lucifer.”

He pulls me back in and kisses me again, taking his time to enjoy the moment.

When we pull apart again, his eyes are filled with such raw love. He can’t help it. The feeling just overwhelms him.

Lucifer smiles at me and he cups my face in both of his hands this time, his eyes staring into my own.

"And I'm eternally yours, my love.” I start to giggle. “Does that mean I get to be the queen of Hell?”

A devilish grin spreads across his face at this thought. “Why yes, I think the title suits you just fine.” He winks at me as he stands up, pulling me up with him.

Lucifer also takes one last appreciative glance at the waterfall before turning to look at me.

His eyes are glittering as he smiles at me. "So, my love, are you ready to leave?" I nod.

“I like where this friendly little conversation led us.” I say as Lucifer gets ready to transport us to Hell.

The next moment, our surroundings are completely changed. The waterfall is gone now, replaced by the harshness of Hell.

“I told you there was nothing wrong with just a friendly chat to pass the time.” He teases me and I give him a huge smile.

[ikeromantic]

Read to Me

Chevalier asks MC to read some poetry to him, much to her surprise. She soon realizes a book of poems isn't as innocent as it sounds. Approx 1600 words.

Written for the Ikemen Prince Gift Exchange! This is for @aquagirl1978

Chevalier regarded the former Belle and future queen with a bland expression. She was still explaining her idea for a family picnic and how she might include everyone -

“I think it would be easy enough to convince Yves and Licht, of course, and Clavis would show up just to cause chaos but Nokto is so hard to pin down!” Her eyes were bright with determination, showing a glint of the steel in her soul. “I was thinking of putting some perfume on his invitation - not mine, of course! And lipstick?”

He didn’t care whether or not she held her picnic, though he had no doubt she would. And every one of his brothers would be there, because she knew how to ask them. She’d grown into her position in the palace. Emissary of the Brutal Beast. The King’s common lover. Keeper of his library, and his heart. Chevalier found his lips curling into a small smile.

“Did you think of something for Sariel? I can’t pull him away from his work for even an hour and -”

“Come.” Chev stood and held out his hand. When she took it, he still felt her warmth prickle along the nerves of his arm and speed his beating heart. He didn’t think he would ever get used to the love in her eyes nor the simple trust she placed in him. His calloused hand cupped her small, soft fingers gently as if she were blown glass. 

She said nothing as he led her out of the library and into the garden. Late summer brought out the riotous colors, every plant weighted with heavy-headed blossoms. But it was only when they came within sight of the rose-entwined gazebo that she made a noise. Soft, breathy. A sigh just on the edge of hearing.

Roses in scarlet and crimson twined about the wood structure, curling up the columns and hanging in vermillion boughs at every opening. The air was scented with their perfume and even the light took on a pink tinge within the confines of that place. 

Chevalier’s heartbeat faltered a moment as the sound she made brought back a tumble of memories. Her parted lips, heavy-lidded gaze, soft breasts in the glow of afternoon sun. The feel of her skin beneath him. Perfect recall was not always a strength, he thought, mildly chagrined. 

He led her to the wood bench beneath the awning, a hidden spot, a favorite place to go and read without being disturbed. “Sit.” 

She sat down beside him, her smile more beautiful to him than the curtain of roses around them. There was no blossom to compare. “Thank you for showing me this, Chevalier. I get so caught up in palace stuff that I forget to enjoy being here.”

His snort of laughter was soft and not unkind. 

She nestled into his side with a happy sigh. 

“Here.” He fished his newest acquisition from an inner pocket. The slim volume had no title painted on the leather cover, nor an author’s name. “Read to me.” Chevalier kissed her temple, inhaling the scent of her.

“Mmm. Alright. What page are you on?” She raised an eyebrow, expectantly. 

“I have not begun it yet.” Her little gasp of surprise pushed his smile wider. “I thought to save it for you. Something to share.” He could feel the way her pulse sped at his words. The effect of such a small gesture of affection. Chevalier loved her reactions. 

She opened the book, flipping past the title page and the list of contributing authors. Eager to get to the meat of it, so to speak. “Ok. Umm, this one is . . . Come Slowly, Eden? It looks like - poetry?” Her head tilted to better regard him.

“I like poetry. Sometimes.” He couldn’t help the slight, teasing tone to his voice. “Go on.”

“Right. So - 

Come slowly – Eden! Lips unused to Thee – Bashful – sip thy Jessamines – As the fainting Bee – Reaching late his flower, Round her chamber hums – Counts his nectars – Enters – and is lost in Balms.”

She paused, read back through it again, her eyes tracing the lines, fingertips light on the edges of the pages. “Chevalier . . . is this love poetry?”

“Is it?” He raised an eyebrow. “Continue. Your question is better answered by the text.” Chev pulled her tight against his hip, settling his arm around her shoulders. 

“I had no idea.” She laughed. “Love poems. And you’ll remember every single line?”

“Of course, simpleton. Stop delaying.”

“Mhmmm.” She was flushed slightly now, her cheeks warm. “Next then.” She flipped the page, scanning the text with her eyes. 

“Carnal apple, Woman filled, burning moon, dark smell of seaweed, crush of mud and light, what secret knowledge is clasped between your pillars? -”  She paused, scanning all the way down the page now, gaze flitting from line to line, lips parted in mute surprise before she mumbled - “Kiss by kiss I cover your tiny infinity, your margins, your rivers, your diminutive villages, and a-”

Her breath trembled as she read and re-read the text. “Ah, let’s - let’s pick a different one, hm?”

“You don’t like that one?” His fingertip traced the edge of her ear.

“Chevalier!” She threw him a glare, though she knew he could see right past her faux-outrage.

“Pick another, then.” He watched as she thumbed through the pages, her eyes going wider with each printed line of dark ink. She didn’t seem likely to stop on one. Her shyness, even after all this time, amused him. As if there were any poems in this book more erotic than the love they made. “That one,” he chose for her.

She squirmed a moment and then surrendered. “You don’t even know if you like this one.” 

“I will know after you read it.” He rested his chin atop her head.

“Whatever happens with us, your body will haunt mine—tender, delicate your lovemaking . . .”

Her breath was shallower than usual, and he could feel the pounding of her heart against his chest. How silly and precious she was, this lover of his. Chevalier eased her onto his lap, enjoying the solid warmth of her pressing against him.

“Mmm . . .” She gave him a look that said she knew all too well he was teasing, but that she planned to go along with it. 

“like the half-curled frond of the fiddlehead fern in forests just washed by sun.”

Chevalier let his lips find the edge of her ear. Brushing her skin lightly there, his breath ghosting across her cheek. 

“I - I can’t concentrate when you do that. I thought you wanted me to read?” She wriggled defiantly, knowing exactly the effect such a motion would have on him.

He bit back the breathy groan and gave her the iciest look he could muster. “Read.”

The slight curl of her lips told him she was well aware of her effect, noise or no. 

“Your traveled, generous thighs between which my whole face has come and come— the innocence and wisdom of the place my tongue has found th- there—”

Her stuttering was more the effect of his teeth grazing her neck, than the text, he thought. Her skin was salty-sweet, a slight bitter tang from her perfume, sweat, and the deliciousness of her. 

She tried to ignore his touch, but focusing on the sensual language was no help. Her voice quavered as she read on. 

“the live, insatiate dance of your nipples in my mouth— your touch on me, firm, protective, searching me out . . .” 

Her entire face was hot now, and she licked the corner of her mouth with the tip of her tongue.

The gesture made Chevalier want to kiss her. “Is that the last line?” He knew it was not. He could see the page easily enough and had already learned the words by heart.

“No but . . . Chevalier . . . it’s -” She gestured to the book helplessly. 

“Read it to me.” He spoke the words against her skin. His rasping voice sent a trembling pleasure through her and she bit her lip in rebellion to it.

Her expression was one of internal conflict. The desire to give in to his demands and her natural defiance. “Alright. Here, 

your strong tongue and slender fingers reaching where I - I -”

Chevalier smiled as she stumbled over the final lines. Her breath was thready with excitement, and her heart sped faster still. He loved seeing her like this, nearly undone by a few words and light touches. Her reaction had nearly undone him as well. Though he hid it well - no blushing or gasping breath for him - his pulse was racing too, and a certain tension coiled in him. “Go on.”

She cleared her throat, 

“I had been waiting years for you in my rose-wet cave—whatever happens, this is.” 

Her eyes read over the words again, tracing the ink with her fingertip.

He lifted her hand from the page and kissed the tip of her finger, his lips and tongue and teeth tasting her. From one finger to another, her palm, her wrist. Chevalier wanted to devour her whole. To strip her here, in this blossom bower and love her with every part of him until every part of her was claimed. He nearly shook with restraint as he let go of her hand.

“Chevalier.” His name said with equal parts love and desire. She turned to face him, her fingers traced the line of his jaw. Brushed his lower lip, satin on velvet. Then she kissed him, soft and hungry. 

His arms went around her, pulling her closer. Heat like an August sun beneath the ice of his exterior burst through him. The moment stretched, shared breath and the possessive tangle of limbs and lips, tongues and teeth. Sighs stained the close-held air, petal-soft caresses kept secret by the gallery of roses. 

Come Slowly, Eden by Emily Dickinson

Carnal Apple, Woman Filled, Burning Moon by Pablo Neruda

The Floating Poem, Unnumbered by Adrienne Rich

[666writingcafe]

Virtue and Sin

Simeon

"What happened earlier?"

Given the situation that happened in the kitchen earlier, I thought it best for MC and me to share a room in the sleeping car so that I could have a proper conversation with them about it. I know that means having Luke continue to be exposed to Mammon and risk having another episode, but I don't know if I'll have another opportunity to be alone with MC, and there are some things they need to know.

"What you witnessed was greed's energy bouncing off Mammon and Luke," I answer. "The more they wanted to go on that trip, the stronger that energy became."

"And the more dangerous."

"Exactly."

"But why would Luke experience greed?" There's the million dollar question. Thankfully, MC seems smart enough to understand the answer.

"An angel's power is connected to one of the seven virtues. Obviously, we're supposed to practice all of them, but the strength of the individual connections differs from person to person. Less experienced angels tend to think that virtue and sin are complete opposites, but in reality they're merely two sides of the same coin."

"Kind of like yin and yang. Good and bad are intertwined; you can't have one without the other. And since Luke's very charitable and kind, he's more likely to experience greed and envy than some of the other angels."

"Correct." MC's following along quite nicely.

"Does the electricity happen to everyone that experiences a sin around a demon?" I shake my head.

"It's a phenomenon that only occurs between angels and demons. The effects are more internal for humans. Any signs of that electricity will be in the eyes, and even then it's so subtle that those that don't know what to look for will dismiss it as a mere trick of the light."

"I see." MC pauses to stretch their arms. "What would have happened to Luke if you didn't step in?" I sigh.

"An angel's tolerance for sin is like a rubber band; it can stretch pretty far, but eventually it will snap. Luke was moments away from throwing a temper tantrum, and those tend to be more violent than a human's."

"That makes sense. I mean, you might say that the flood that Noah experienced was the result of God throwing a hissy fit."

"How so?" I'm genuinely interested in MC's response, but I'm also testing them a bit with my question.

"Well, if something I poured my heart into creating didn't work the way I intended it to, I'd be pretty upset. Not just at the creation, but at myself. The possibility that I wasn't as good as I thought I was would hurt my pride, and I'd end up lashing out at my creation, potentially destroying it in the process."

Bingo.

"That certainly is an interesting take, MC." As much as I'd like to tell them that their reasoning is sound and that it partially explains how Lucifer turned out the way he did, I have a feeling that I'd get my ass chewed out for agreeing with the idea that God is capable of sinning. That kinda defeats the whole "He's perfect" thing.

"Do you think Luke's going to be okay bunking with Mammon?" I shrug.

"He has to learn how to control his greed and envy, and he can't do that if he doesn't know what he's up against. 'Know thy enemy', as they say." I sigh. "I hate to think of the brothers that way, especially since we were once family, but they are the Avatars of Sin for a reason. It'd be foolish of me to not take that into account."

MC appears deep in thought. I can tell that they have more to say, but for some reason they're hesitating. Are they afraid that I'll end our conversation if they keep talking?

Michael and the other seraphim would tell me that I should. A human has no business knowing this much. I know a few angels that still hold humanity in contempt for what Adam and Eve did in the Garden of Eden, and that's ancient history at this point.

However, I want to know exactly what MC's thinking. I find their intellect to be one of the most attractive things about them. Not that they're bad to look at--because they're not--but there are plenty of pretty people that don't have any complex thoughts in their head. It makes for rather boring conversations. At least I don't have to worry about that with MC.

"Hey, Simeon?" I hum in acknowledgement. "You don't have to answer this if you don't want to, but I was wondering what sin you're most susceptible to experiencing."

Oh. We're going there.

If it were anyone else, I would change the subject. Knowing an angel's weaknesses is powerful, and people have used that against us too many times for me to count.

But I don't think MC would do that. They've behaved too honorably.

I take a deep breath to ease my nerves.

"Wrath."

[sassycheesecake]

Issei Matsukawa x florist!Reader “Red Chrysanthemums”

“Are you almost done with the preparation of the funeral of Mr. Hashibura Matsukawa?” The owner of ‘House of Shinigami’ walks into the preparation room to find his young employee, Issei Matsukawa.

The ravenette looks up from the body preparation at his boss, gloves and a medical mask covering his face.

Matsukawa pulls the gloves off his hands, throwing them in the trash.

Pulling his mask down, he answers.

“Yeah, just have to finish up here. I’ll be done in an hour or so.”

The older man nods, telling him to lock up the place after he is done.

Right as he is about to close the door, he remembers something.

“Oh before I forget, our new florist will come in about 20 minutes. It’s for the flower arrangement that the family wishes to have.” He explains and closes the door.

Matsukawa sighs and tries to be done with most preperations before the florist arrives.

All of sudden, he hears a soft feminine voice call out in the lobby, making him stop his actions and walking out of the preparation room.

The ravenette widens his eyes a bit at your appearance. You’re drop-dead gorgeous and the way you’re standing with the notepad like a shy new student in class just adds to your charm.

„Hello. My name is (Y/L/N) (Y/F/N). I am the owner of ‚Garden of Eden‘ a few blocks down. I am guessing you’re the employee your boss has mentioned?“

Nodding at your statement, he introduces himself.

„Name‘s Matsukawa Issei, you can call me Issei if you want to.“

Blushing a bit by already letting you call him by his first name is doing weird things to your body.

I mean, his tall stature and his raven locks give off an intimidating vibe but the way his dark eyes shine with kindness, makes you forget his dark aura.

„So let’s go over the flower arrangements together.“

Matsukawa brings a notepad as well from one of the drawers from the front desk.

„So. The family wishes for pink carnations, Forget-Me-Nots and Cyclamen.“

Matsukawa nods, writing everything down.

„Any reason for these type of flowers?“

You look at him as if he were stupid.

„Have you never given any thought to any flower arrangements of families for funeral plannings?“

The former Middle Blocker shrugs his shoulders in embarrassment and you give out a sigh before explaining it to him.

„So. Uhm. Pink carnations stand for ‚I‘ll never forget you‘. Forget-Me-Nots, the name of the flower already explains the meaning in its name. And Cyclamen stand for resignation and good-bye.“

Matsukawa needless to say, is impressed by your knowledge about the flowers.

He has to admit, he never cared enough for the meaning of flowers at funerals, it’s just an addition to give a little light to something dark. Sure, he knows that red roses mean love and affection for someone else but that’s about it. And that’s all he honestly needs to know. But that was before he met you.

The curly-haired ravenette keeps asking you about the meaning of flowers, listening intensely to every word you say. He asks about your shop, a little bit about about your personal life and he finds out that you’re the granddaughter of the previous floral shop owner.

Kindness and compassion shine in your eyes whenever you would mention more facts about certain flowers, almost making him swoon by your fascination.

But all things have to come to an end, Matsukawa having to finish his preparation on the body and you getting back home after giving the ravenette your business card which includes the number of your shop and also your personal number.

You sly minx.

A year later, you’re opening up your shop later than usual, having a romantic late date last night with Issei. As you are about to unlock your door, you notice a packaged bouquet in front of the door.

Curiously, you bend down to pick it up and you see your name on it with a tag that says it’s from Issei.

When you open the bouquet, you immediately feel a heat spread across your face, a warm smile stretches over your cheeks when you recognize the flowers.

Red Chrysanthemums.

(Psst! Red Chrysanthemums = I love you)

@rukia-uchiha-98 @nerd-of-karasuno @wake-uptoreality @darthferbert @lyditheoverthinker

[vandermorganable]

Garden of Eden PT.1

(Not my gif. Found on Pinterest)

Description: After being released from the military thanks to the use of forged discharge papers, Joe takes him to Garden of Eden, or the cathouse as they liked to call it, to celebrate his freedom. Vito seemed to be more interested with a male patron than the women.

Relationship: Vito Scaletta x Henry Tomasino

⚠️Warning⚠️: Blow Job, Intercourse

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Joe brought Vito to the cathouse so they could celebrate together, but as soon as he stepped into the club, he disappeared in thin air. Vito didn’t know what to do. He could walk up to any girl and get whatever he wanted, no strings attached. However, he was stuck in one place. None of the women peaked his interest as much as the man on the opposite end of the bar did. His brown hair slicked back with a thick layer of grease. Vito raised the glass up to drink to hide his wandering eyes. The man must’ve sensed the stares because he looked straight over to him. Vito quickly diverted his gaze, trying to pretend like he was focusing on something else.

Vito heard footsteps approach him. Footsteps that were way lighter than Joe’s. A foreign body had entered his personal space. The man was now sitting next to him. His entire torso was faced towards the younger man. By the wrinkles decorating his forehead and prominent laugh lines, he could tell he was older than him by several years. Vito didn’t care. He loved someone of a mature age anyways.

“What’s a pretty thing like you doing alone in a place like this?” The man’s Sicilian accent was thick.

“I’m not here alone actually. I came here with my friend, Joe, but he’s probably with a broad somewhere,” Vito explained, stirring his drink.

“Oh, yeah? Would you like for me to keep you company for the night?”

“Doesn’t sound too bad if I can get a name to call you.”

“Henry. Henry Tomasino.”

“I’m Vittorio Scaletta, but everybody calls me Vito.”

Their conversation moved to the couch for more…comfort. Vito’s legs were sprawled over Henry’s lap and his arm wrapped around his back, letting his hand rest on his other shoulder. Vito was moving his hand up and down the man’s bare chest. He had complained that the room was getting a little hot so he unbuttoned the white shirt he was wearing underneath his blazer. Vito had a clear view of his toned chest. Though not insanely muscular, he had a pretty healthy build.

“You love rubbing my chest, don’t you?” He asked, brushing the tip of his index finger down Vito’s cheek.

“Well, I would love to be rubbing something else right about now but…” He trailed off, noticing the slight bulge poking through Henry’s pants that wasn’t there before.

Henry started to undo his belt. “You could’ve asked instead of waiting.”

He unveiled his dick, uncaring that they were in the middle of the club. Everybody was either in the middle of a blow job or working on getting one so he wasn’t sticking out like a sore thumb. His dick wasn’t too big or too small. It wouldn’t have him screaming in pain (not pleasure) or bore him to death. Just right was what he would describe it as. He would receive pleasure and joy while being comfortable. Vito licked his lips to lubricate them and started in a slow motion that followed the tempo of the jazz music that played. Henry’s body made a small twitch and a soft moan sounded from his mouth. He kept going, feeling it hit the back of his throat.

“Shit! Stop for a second,” Henry ordered.

Vito followed, looking at Henry as if he’d done something wrong.

“I want to finish inside of you,” Henry whispered, staring him deeply into the eyes.

Vito nodded. He pulled down his pants with no hesitation. Henry inserted his dick. Vito released a sigh at the slight pressure of it. Henry thrusted into him. He gripped onto the edge of the couch for support. His mouth was agape, moans escaping.

“Fuck! I’m gonna cum,” Henry announced, squeezing onto Vito’s bare hips.

Henry made a loud grunt as he released inside of Vito. Both of them were breathing heavily. Vito fell back onto Henry’s lap, tired. Vito was about ready to go home. After the soreness from his activities went away, he redressed himself.

He gave a passionate kiss on Henry’s lips. “I have to go find my friend and get out of here. Thanks for making my night.”

Henry simply saluted him away. Vito searched around the cathouse, knocking on doors and asking questions about Joe’s whereabouts. One stripper said that he saw him go into the bathroom. Vito entered the men’s restroom. Sounds of wretching came from the stalls. He opened the only occupied stall to see Joe puking his guts out in the toilet. Vito crouched next to him.

“Come on, Joe. No more booze for you.” He handed Joe a piece of toilet paper.

Surprisingly, he didn’t make a fuss about it. After Joe cleaned himself up, they called it a night and Vito drove them back to Joe’s apartment.

[echoingbirdsofprey]

Take Me Back To Eden

Three - You Make It More Than I Could Ever Feel

Pairing: ii x OFC Violetta Kastor

Rating: Explicit (MDNI!)

Warnings: literally this is just smut and ii in his feels

A/N: Its just smut lol

Cal awoke to warmth beside him and a splitting headache. His arm was draped over a very feminine frame. He knew what he'd done immediately. He took stock of himself underneath the covers. He was buck naked and so was she. He ran his fingers over her hip, then up her ribs, which made her shiver unconsciously. Cal pulled the blankets up over her, but propped himself up on the pillows. He checked his phone.

He paused and lifted the covers, letting them billow so that he could get a quick look at the masterpiece that was Violetta's tattooed torso. He had noticed it last night but hadn't at the same time. There wasn't much else he could focus on last night with his cock inside her.

He shook his head and concentrated on his phone. He had several texts from several people.

Roman: hey, didn't see you come in, you okay?

Roman: ooh, haha, nevermind, you look like you had fun

Jesse: I want you to know, I think you deserve the world

Jesse: and I think Vi is exactly what you need

Steve: is girlypop with you? Can you give her Piper's number when you get a sec?

He thought Jesse' texts were particularly odd. His suspicions about the other night may have been wrong. Maybe Jesse didn't try to sleep with Violetta. He decided to text him.

Cal: what does that mean?

Didn't take long at all for him to respond.

Jesse: means what it says

Cal: how was your date?

Jesse: fine, she's fun

Cal: did you fuck her?

Jesse: ask her

Cal: im asking you

Jesse: ffs

Anger boiled up inside Cal, but then he took a deep breath and looked over at the girl beside him. Even if Jesse did sleep with her, she was in his bed now. That either meant Jesse wasn't what she was looking for, or she preferred Cal. He hoped it was the latter.

Cal: were you nice to her?

Jesse: I was the nicest I've ever been to a girl

Jesse: I did fuck her, but she was thinking of you the whole time

Cal sighed and he felt Violetta stir beside him. She opened one eye slightly and a smile formed on her lips as she stared lazily up at him. She pushed herself up, wincing as she turned. 

"You okay?" He asked softly, and she nodded.

"Yeah, just sore. I'm out of my routine." 

"What's your routine?" He asked, genuinely curious. She leaned over, tentatively pressing a kiss to his lips before climbing off the edge of the bed.

"I've gone for a morning walk every day since I started college, but I obviously haven't since I started touring with you guys, just because I don't know my way around and don't want to get lost." She explained as she stood and immediately Cal had to double take. He admired the delicate curves of her hips and the way her tattoos framed them. It was an intricately mapped out garden, all different varieties of flowers, leaves and music notes mixed together, seemingly at random but if he knew anything about a piece like hers, it had been planned so meticulously over many years.

"Well, I'll go with you." He offered and she smiled back at him as she walked to the bathroom. He had changed positions, now laying on his stomach, head propped on his hands as he watched her. 

"You would?" She asked, poking her head out.

"Course I would." He said, his smile growing wider as she went back to getting herself ready for the day. They were headed to another festival later. He sat silent for a few moments, listening to her turn on the faucet, brush her teeth, rip the bracelet from last night's festival off, then pack her things away. He wondered if she was going to take a quick shower or not. He heard the toilet flush and then she appeared again. 

She grabbed a fresh pair of panties and a bra out of her bag. They had a pretty matching flower pattern on them. He raised a brow and couldn't help but smirk. She wasn't going to take a shower and that turned him on just a little bit, knowing that she wasn't going to bother washing herself off after they'd had sex last night. She put on a yellow Bad Omens tank top and some black leggings. He also noticed that since she'd started, she never wore make up. He rather liked that. 

She sat on the edge of the bed and looked back at Cal. His blue eyes narrowed and there was a small smile on his face. He rose, jumping off the bed, pulling boxers and shorts over his lower half and a black sweatshirt with the Istanbul Agop cymbals logo on it. He pulled on his shoes and held his hand out for her, which she took and they exited the room to take a walk. It was short lived, as it had begun to rain outside, so they made their way back to the hotel and grabbed a quick breakfast before heading back to the room. At some point, he'd given Violetta his sweatshirt because she'd gotten cold and he wasn't going to let her be uncomfortable.

When they returned, Cal sat on the bed and motioned for Violetta to sit next to him. She did and her brows furrowed as he took her hand in his. His eyes were filled with sadness and exhaustion as if the world itself was weighing him down.

"What is it?" She asked softly, intertwining her fingers with his. He was surprised by this and swallowed hard, his hand twitching like he was going to pull it away but he didn't. 

"I feel something with you...some kind of pull toward you. I can't say for sure what it is but I would like to see where it takes me. If you'll have me. And I mean all of me." His eyes lit up slightly but there was still that dullness in them. They could be so brilliant, but Violetta knew the only way to have that was if he let go of all of his past trauma and tension. That could take a while. 

"I don't know what happened to you but...I want to help. I want you to heal." She said and he leaned in to kiss her. "I want to know because I want to help you heal." She said softly, playing with one of the bracelets on his wrist.

"I want to tell you everything, but I can't right now. I'll be able to...I just need time..." His eyes were burning through her, making her feel extra hot. She wanted so badly to understand him. 

"I can give you that. The one thing you're gonna find out about me is that I always keep promises. I promised you I'd stay. I promise I'll be patient." She said and he leaned back on the bed on his elbows. His expression had softened quite a bit. She spread out next him, propped up on her arms so she could continue looking at him.

"Ah, eye contact is so fucking intimate." He said, smirking and letting his head fall back. He rolled it back to find her still trying to look at him. "I don't know what this is, but I feel like with everything...with all the success we're having, I feel like I need to just let this happen. You came into my life for a reason."

Violetta was surprised. She'd never heard anyone talk to her that way. It wasn't like she had a difficult childhood or anything. She had positivity but she'd never had someone tell her she was basically some sort of sign from God. Cal was clearly flabbergasted by her presence. Roman less so, and Steve and Jesse just accepted her as she was. Cal though, was so infatuated. And she didn't think it had much to do with them fucking either. That was an added bonus. Cal felt calm when he was around Violetta, almost instantly. Besides Roman, Steve, and Jesse, he'd never felt a person like that before. In fact he rather detested most people st the moment. He liked to keep to himself if possible. Violetta made him feel like he could be more social though. She had somewhat of a bubbly personality. He didn't think he would like that but he did.

Cal laid back completely, putting one arm behind his head and the other across his stomach. His eyes closed slowly. Violetta scooted closer to him, propping herself up on one arm, and reaching for his hand. She traced the tattoos, from where the sleeve of his t-shirt ended to the veins in his hands. He shivered slightly, the smirk returning across his lips, but he kept his eyes closed. Violetta ran her fingers from his arm, down to the hem of his shirt. She tugged it up and placed her hand on his stomach. She wanted to put her fingers just under the front of his shorts but she didn't. He moved his hand up his own chest and she moved her hand further up his body, following, examining his tattoos as she went. He was covered like she thought. His whole chest, both arms and up onto his neck. She couldn't see any of that in the dark last night. 

Cal opened his eyes slowly to glance down at her. He reached up to cup her cheek and pull her in for a kiss. She felt like she was burning up. She hadn't felt like that with a guy since high school. She crawled over the top of him and his hands went for her waist, pulling the sweatshirt up and stopping just under the waistband of her leggings. He tried to draw on the confidence the alcohol had given him last night but his heart was beating out of his chest as the words spilled from his lips.

"Goddamnit. You're so..." He pressed his lips to hers again, kneading the muscles around her hips. "So fucking pretty, sweetheart."

"Cal..." Violetta panted his name as he pressed his hips up into hers. He was more than ready to go and she felt that, but she would only proceed if he allowed. She knew again, he wanted to keep going. He wanted to be inside of her again. 

The blue of his eyes met her green ones, begging to continue. She nodded, not bothering to pull his sweatshirt off. It smelled slightly of alcohol but it also smelled like him and she liked that. A musky, luxuriously masculine scent that she knew was mostly cologne but there was just a hint of sweat mixed in with it. The best way she could describe it was that he smelled like a dirty musician. By the end of the ritual, most of his body paint had sweat off, and he'd only rinsed himself this morning after their walk.

He pushed her leggings and panties down, and pushed his boxers and shorts down. He knew she was already wet enough that he could just slide right in. His eyes had grown wild, pupils widened with lust, and he could've sworn he felt himself vibrating with anticipation. He flailed for a moment, barely reaching the side table, knocking half of the condoms off of it, but catching one, ripping the wrapper with his teeth and spitting it over the side of the bed. He rolled it onto himself and without waiting, she slid herself down onto his cock. He groaned so loud at the feeling, he was sure someone heard him.

Now he was the one panting as she bobbed up and down. He held her hips, helping to guide her when she lost rhythm. The bed creaked and he sucked in a sharp breath as he felt his balls draw up tight. He was done for with the next thrust. 

It was short lived, but Violetta enjoyed it nonetheless. She didn't need to finish. Just him being spent was good enough for her, but she let out a squeak when he pulled out of her and flipped her over. His eyes darkened as his lips traveled down her body. He sucked on one of her nipples through the sweatshirt, then headed toward her core, his nose brushing her belly button. His hands were a vicegrip around the back of her thighs as his tongue met her clit, devouring it. He may not have lasted long inside her, but he was going to make sure she didn't have to wait for her orgasm either. He went to fucking town, licking, sucking, even nipping slightly at her center, leaving soft bites along her inner thighs and belly. She'd never had a man assault her senses so...professionally, and without even using his fingers. He was so fucking thorough, making sure no bit of skin that he could access was not touched, and made sure she was a writhing mess when she moaned his name at the peak of her pleasure. 

Her heart was beating out of her chest when he was done. He wiped his mouth off on the sheets and collapsed next to her.

"That's gotta be a record." Violetta said softly, laughing as he gazed over at her.

"What, how fast I got you off?" He asked, pressing his lips to her collarbone. 

"Yeah..." She sighed, cuddling up to him. 

"Couldn't leave you wanting. Not in my nature, sweetheart." He whispered, laying his head on her chest, listening to her slowing heart beat, while his stayed pounding. He spoke quietly then. "We should finish packing."

Violetta nodded and they laid there for a few more moments before cleaning themselves up and packing.

[aziraphales-library]

hi!!! i was wondering if you knew of any fics where originally hell had given orders to tempt aziraphale/make him fall but then obviously fell in love instead (+ somehow aziraphale finds out and it gets angsty). i know this is a very specific ask so no worries if this does not exist. thanks so much (and thank you for this blog, it makes me so happy and you are wonderful people💓)

Hello. You might be interested in posts we’ve made before featuring Crowley tempting Aziraphale here and here. I’ve got a few more now, in which it’s part of Crowley’s job to tempt an angel...

Sunny Side of Eden by AnonymousDandelion (G)

Aziraphale blinked down at the serpent, feeling something at a loss as for what to do next. He’d thought all the animals were meant to stay in the Garden. He hadn’t been told how to deal with finding one on top of his wall, of all places. He could feel his hands beginning to wring at the waist of his robe. He wasn’t prepared. What should he…

Fortunately, before Aziraphale’s worrying could spiral any further out of control, the serpent seemed for whatever reason to relent. It lowered its head — though with eyes still fixed on Aziraphale — and gave a long, hissing sigh. “I’m sssunbathing.”

~ ~ ~

OR: Walking the wall of Eden one fine day, Aziraphale has an unexpected encounter. The serpent, for its part, has an interesting suggestion.

For Who So Firm that Cannot Be Seduced? by elviaprose (E)

Crowley has been spotted having dinner with Aziraphale. The first way he can think of to explain it to Hell is that he's been trying seduce and corrupt the angel. It's not a bad explanation, for something totally off the cuff. The only problem is that he's going to have to actually do it. Or at least pretend to. Set slightly Before Anti-Christ.

The Good Demon by HolyCatsAndRabbits & smolalienbee (T)

In this AU fic, Hell thinks the demon Crowley isn’t evil enough to merit the title of demon. As punishment, they turn him mortal, and if he wants his old job back with his powers and immortality, he’s got to seduce and cause the Fall of some angel named Aziraphale, who is serving as a campus chaplain, running a group for queer youth. Crowley thinks the assignment will be easy, until he meets the angel and his students, and discovers the kind of found family that he’s always wanted. There’s just one little problem: Crowley is a terrible danger to them all.

It’s your job by falsepremise (E)

After a night sucking oysters with Aziraphale, Crowley just can’t sleep. Perhaps he should hang around in Rome a little longer... After all, tempting a certain angel is his job, isn’t it?

Gormless Seduction by munchmulch (T)

Crowley grimaces. "Nhnnnnggg, ok, alright. But, hear me out." They flick a hand dramatically. "An angel! A being who can make Holy water! Even if I can keep the whole human disguise thing up, what if they, I don't know . . . want me baptised?"

Dagon stares at Crowley blankly for a second before handing them the assignment kit. "You’ll start tomorrow. The address is highlighted, if you get lost and have to call me for directions I will direct you through at least three traffic jams."

Everyone But You by summerofspock (M)

It was at his 60th centennial review—Crowley had prepared a grandiose speech about his work in the Cold War (not him at all), gas prices, and the M-25—when Beelzebub walked into their office and slapped a file into his hands before slouching behind their desk. Which, not-so-shockingly, was made of bones.

“A seduction?” Crowley said, looking down at the file with a frown. He hadn’t been given a seduction in nearly two thousand years.

“Not just any seduction,” Beelzebub said as they flopped into their chair and folded their hands in their lap.

Crowley flipped open the file and then nearly dropped it. “You want me to seduce an angel? Why?”

- Mod D

[dandelion-sugar]

𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐖𝐢𝐟𝐞 『Adam x Reader』

Summary: Reader was Adam's first wife before he married Eve.

Warning: Angst, a little fluff, death, deities are really cruel

15,8k

Author's note: Requests for Genshin have not been forgotten! I'm working on it BUT I just finished season one of Record of Ragnarok and needed to write about Adam. I think he deserves more writing about him...he's the best husband and father Earth could have!

"A demoness? A succubus? No! A human whose legends turn her into a fearsome ruler of the underworld! She rules an entire army with an iron fist! Made of the clay of creation, she is made in the image of the gods! N°00000000002 : Lilith!" shouted Heimdall to announce your entrance.

You have been chosen to save humanity. The creation of Adam and Eve. You don't know why Brunhilde trusts you to save the humans. What could she possibly have been thinking in choosing you? Were you the best choice for this? Protecting the beings conceived by your ex-husband and his new wife. Unlike your ex-lover, you refuse to walk around naked. Your body is far too precious to be revealed to the world. You stand in the middle of the arena waiting patiently for Heimdall to finish presenting your opponent.

Your eyes rest on your army led by your only son. The only being you have ever given birth to. The third human born. A slight smile appeared on your lips. Your son resembled his father, and you found that particularly funny. You couldn't help but think that Adam's genes were particularly strong. But the way your son stood proudly at the head of your army...he took that from you. Even if you were to perish in this fight, you know that your army and your son will come through.

Your right hand will be around the shaft of your spear. You hear the mocking laughter of the gods, announcing your crushing defeat. You hear the hesitant whispers of humans about your place among the fighters of humanity. You are known in human legends to be a danger to pregnant women and newborns. To be honest with yourself, you hate this legends. You are a mother, how can humans think that you would harm a woman and her child? Your eyes drop slightly to the floor and your lips pucker into an unpleasant pout. After a few seconds, your face frees itself of all displays of emotion and your hand rises to challenge Heimdall.

"Yes, Lilith?" asks the god who has the role of announcer.

"I will not fight under that name," you announce.

"Huh?" he blurts out in surprise.

"I will not fight under the name of the monster the humans wanted to make me," you reply immediately.

"So...what do you want to be called?"

Lying in a meadow, you enjoy the sun and the soft breeze on your bare skin. Rabbits and foxes quickly surround you to enjoy the comfort with you. Everything is perfect in the Garden of Eden. A shadow covers your face, forcing you to open your eyes to discover the obstacle between you and the sun. It is a pleasant surprise when you discover your husband's welcoming smile, his blonde locks framing his face. Adam sits down beside you, placing his fruit basket between his legs. He pulls out a bunch of grapes and takes one between his long fingers. He then brings the fruit to your lips to let you savour the sweet, pleasant taste of the fruit. A sigh of contentment crosses your lips. Your husband's smile widens as he notices your relaxed state.

"You have grape juice running down your chin, Lilith," Adam informs you.

Your eyelids droop slightly as your eyes express your displeasure. Adam only lets a laugh emit from his throat as he leans forward to lick the grape juice off. Your hand gently but firmly pushes him away. You want him to understand that his gestures of affection will not be tolerated again until he realises his mistake. And you know perfectly well that he has understood what he has done.

"Stop teasing me," you say, a frown appearing on your face.

"I like to see your eyebrows furrow. You look like that kitten that was trying to scare us." replies Adam, running his hand over your hip stroking it in lazy circles, as if to soothe you.

"But unlike that kitten, I can bite," you reply sharply.

"I know you can..." he hums in the hollow of your ear. "Y/N."

This memory was a moment of pure happiness that you experienced in the Garden of Eden before you were forced into exile. This name you chose with Adam was the beginning of your independence from the gods. You had never accepted the principle of being subject to a man and Adam always supported you in this choice. But the gods did not like this and in response you abandoned the name they gave you at your creation. Perhaps this is why Eve was created from Adam's rib? To prevent her from becoming like you.

"Y/N. Call me that," you proudly announce.

The gods of your creation frown but do not protest. They hope that you will perish against one of their own and that your soul will disintegrate in space and time.

Adam had slipped out of the room where he was locked up. When he learned of your presence here, he did not expect you to fight for the humans. The children he had with another woman. He snuck into the bleachers to get a better look at your figure. A sense of nostalgia stirs in his heart as he sees that you haven't changed in all this time. You stand with dignity, your weapon in hand. You are strong and independent, you have become the woman you always dreamed of. A woman you could not have become if you were in his company because...everyone wants his wife to be submissive to him.

Adam does not regret his married life with Eve, he enjoys it too. But he has enjoyed the life he has lived with you. He believes in your victory. He wants you to win. He does not want to witness your complete disappearance from the universe without any chance of reincarnation. Your first separation has already split his heart in two, Adam does not want to experience this intense pain a second time.

You swing your divine spear with one hand, deflecting your opponent's first blow. The strength in this attack was not worthy of a god, was he testing your abilities? Your eyes meet. The victorious and arrogant smile on the god's face already irritates you. He underestimated you because you are a human AND a woman. His leg comes to sweep over yours but you manage to dodge by gaining height. You position your spear, blade towards the ground to pierce his skull. The god quickly dodges in a backward leap, leaving you to land on the ground, puncturing the concrete floor which cracks under the impact.

Your exchange of blows lasts for a while. Or should we say: the god throws blows at you that you deflect with your spear. But suddenly, his paterne changes. The force that the god uses becomes more powerful. His leg comes to meet your stomach. You prevent the blow from reaching your skin by placing your spear between your stomach and his leg. Unfortunately, the attack sends you flying a few metres away. You manage to land with difficulty and before you can regain a stable footing, the god launches himself at you. You are forced to fall to the side in a roll to narrowly dodge the punch. Your cheek begins to bleed.

"Mother!" your distraught son shouts.

"Commander! Get up!" your soldiers shout to encourage you.

You let out a breath, your muscles relax, making your movements more fluid and lively. Your eyes fall on the figure of your opponent. The aura around you changes completely, causing the small smile on the god's face to disappear. Your hands grip the spear and your feet anchor themselves to the ground to give you a good foothold.

"Answer my question before we resume this fight. Why are you fighting for the humans?" the god asks.

"Do I need a reason to fight? The gods have forced me to be submissive and men have clothed me in a veil of monstrous lies. It's like choosing between the plague and cholera," you explain. "But I had to choose and I chose my ex-husband's children.

The humans observing the exchange begin to stir, either out of guilt or because they were moved by your story. Humans get teary-eyed easily, you think. But you can't help but find this side of them very touching. Perhaps it was a good thing that Eve was the Mother of humanity?

"Humans have the will to survive and a strength that allows them to constantly evolve. This is a strength that the gods can never possess," you say with contempt.

Your hatred for the gods is much stronger than your hatred for humans. On your words, the fight resumes. You manage to follow your opponent's movements. Like Adam, you were forged from clay in the image of the gods. You are Adam's equal, you have the same ability as him to copy the techniques you see. Your movements remind the gods of Athena. You had copied the movements of this goddess a long time ago.

Your body and that of your opponent are covered in blood. You are bleeding from the wounds inflicted on you, but you were able to avenge yourself by seriously injuring your opponent as well.

Adam clenches his lips into a thin line, his fingernails digging into the palms of his hands but he still believes in your victory. You must win. You can't give him up a second time...you can't.

"They've created a second wife for you," you scream indignantly.

"You're the only one for me," Adam admits in an attempt to calm your nerves. He can't bear to see you cry.

"It's only a matter of time before the gods kick me out of the Garden of Eden! I don't understand their desire to have me submit to male authority! Do goddesses submit to male deities?" you growl in frustration. The anger was so strong that you can't hold back the tears.

"If they chase you away then I'll go with you," Adam announces, interlacing your fingers together.

A soft warmth spreads through your chest as a gasp of surprise passes through your lips. A slight blush marks your cheeks as you look away from your husband. You can't help but enjoy the tender feeling. Adam wraps his muscular arms around you in a soothing embrace. His scent calms your restless nerves.

"Spend the night with me tonight," you whisper.

"We always sleep together," he says, tilting his head to the side, not understanding the meaning of your words.

"Adam..." you gasp shyly. It almost sounded like a soft moan.

His blue eyes widen slightly as the implied request is processed by his brain. A teasing smile spreads across his face as he leans in to your blushing ear to whisper provocative words.

That was the last evening you spent in his company before the gods kidnapped you and threw you away from the Garden of Eden. You never tried to return to that place, you knew it wasn't possible. So you did your best to survive. You were able to thrive and enjoy your newfound independence.

That night Adam gave you a gift, your son: Eurynome. A child identical to his father, who grew up with you as his only role model. He has become an independent young man capable of leading an army. But he remains a child... a child afraid to be alone without the reassuring presence of his mother.

It is impossible to understand the pain of losing a parent when you have not experienced it. No one could understand a tenth of the pain of Eurynome's scream as the god's fist plunges into your chest.

Your eyes crinkle under the sudden fatigue your body feels. Your right hand struggles to hold the spear. The humans weep in despair as the gods celebrate the downfall of Lilith, the woman who did not obey divine orders.

Nausea takes hold of Adam's body. All that blood, your blood spilling on the floor. Will you die? Disappear forever...you don't even know that he witnessed your fight. You will never know that he missed you terribly. You will never know that he wanted to feel your warmth in his arms again and whisper those three words to you.

Your eyes linger on your son's tear-streaked face. A peaceful smile appears on your lips. A fire of determination shines in your eyes. Your hand tightens around the spear and you slice the god's jugular before collapsing to your knees. If you must die...then you will prevent the gods from achieving a victory as well.

Your eyes slowly close and your hearing becomes increasingly blurred. The voices are now just an indistinguishable din.

Adam could only watch as your body and the god's dematerialize into a smoke of green glitter. His legs move towards the battlefield as if trying to retrieve the flakes that represent your soul dissolving into space. But your son's crying snaps him out of his trance. His eyes fall on a miniature version of himself.

Cain and Abel have some characteristics of their father but Eurynome is a carbon copy of Adam and you would have to be blind not to notice. Adam walks over to your son and takes him in his arms, sharing his pain. Adam fully understands the tug of war that Eurynome feels.

That night Adam gave you a gift, your son. Today, this gift will show the world that you existed. That you are not like your legends.

You are an independent woman, a mother and Adam's wife.

"Adam," you call to your husband, who is perched on a tree branch.

"Yes?" he hums, keeping his eyes closed.

"Don't you think I'm strange?" you finally question him. "Do you think I owe you obedience too?

Silence passes between the two of you. A pain assails your heart at this lack of response and you instantly regret having asked him the question. The disappointment was much stronger than you had thought. You look up abruptly when you hear a thud only a few feet away. Adam had just jumped from his branch. His back was to you. He turns towards you, his face devoid of emotion. He encircles your cheeks with his warm palms. His piercing blue eyes almost seem to probe your soul and you struggle to hold his gaze. But your desire to know the answer prevents you from looking away.

"We are husband and wife, I accept you as you are. Don't change for the world, for anyone," Adam says with conviction.

"So...you love me like this?" you ask aloud, wanting to sound confident.

Adam looks at you slightly surprised at this sudden question. He hums softly before leaning in to kiss your forehead. The smile he flashes makes your heart race.

"I love you," he says.

"I love you too..." you admit after a few moments.

[theplaytheroist]

For I Such Yearn Chapter 5: Such Cherish Moments

Elizabeth woke up late today, looking around her room as Paula enters the room. She didn't think she was that tired from all from that week alone and it make sense that she felt...well rested.

"Your Mother let you sleep in late today Lady Elizabeth, anything you want to do today?" Paula asked. "Yeah, I'm going to visit Mey-rin today, tell Mother that okay Paula?" Elizabeth answered. "Got it Lady Elizabeth, let me get you dressed" Paula smiles.

With Mey-rin doing chores with the boys, Finny, Bardroy and Snake, Mey-rin finished quickly as possible as she wanted to relax for today.

"Wow Mey-rin, your getting better at chores lately!" Finny smiles.

"Yeah, are you in a hurry or something?" Bardroy asked.

"I just wanted to relax today boys, that's all" Mey-rin smiles.

"We can tell that your stressed" says Oscar" Snake comments.

"Am I? I didn't know that" Mey-rin mutters.

"Well, we are almost done with work! Now we can hang out for a bit" Finny smiles brightly.

"Hell yeah! Maybe we can get some goodies today" Bardroy smirks.

"I'm hoping to explore more" says Emily" Snake nodded his head.

"While you do that, I'm gonna relax today" Mey-rin chuckled.

"It seems like your finishing your chores everyone" Sebastian enters the scene. "Yes we did Mr. Sebastian! We want to relax, yes indeed!" Mey-rin smiles. "I notice that your stressed Mey-rin, you can take a break today if you like. I'll finished the last of the chores" Sebastian insisted. "Are you sure Mr. Sebastian? I don't want you think that incompetent just because I'm stress" Mey-rin comments. "Your not incompetent, you improved greatly Mey-rin. Just relax okay?" Sebastian smiles at her. "I guess your right, thank you Mr. Sebastian" Mey-rin bowed. "Of course, what kind of butler will I be if I couldn't care for our only maid" Sebastian smirks. "I don't know, a raging workaholic" Mey-rin joked. "Now that's what I say, no. I'm not Young Master mind you" Sebastian rolled his eyes. "Touche there oh great black butler" Mey-rin smirks.

"Well, I'll be finishing up the last of the chores, you guys can go freely now" Sebastian leaves off with a wave.

"Man Mey-rin, I didn't think the shy maid will be bold enough to say that in front of the great butler" Bardroy teased.

"Huh? Well...we have been chatting a bit more lately than usual" Mey-rin blushes lightly.

"It seems Mr. Sebastian likes you a lot!" Finny smiles.

"I noticed how you two are close now" says Emily" Snake comments.

"We are just friends! I can assure you boys! It's just that Sebastian isn't the type of person to be interested in me anyway!" Mey-rin quickly explained.

"So am I option?" Bardroy joked. "Yeah right, I see you all as brothers" Mey-rin smirks. "Man, I'm hurt by that Mey-rin" Bardroy fake pouted.

"Let's get going guys! I'm excited to get something this time" Finny ran off.

"Hey Finny! Hold on! We have to change our clothes!" Bardroy follows.

"I'm excited to explore more" says Oscar" Snake follows them.

Mey-rin sighs in relief, going outside for fresh air as she does stretching to relieve some stress. Then she heard a small noise from the garden, she look around the garden from that noise and saw a small black kitten that is completely injured, almost to death! Mey-rin took it quickly to her room, as she took out the Apple of Eden from her drawer and to heal and alive the kitten completely. The black kitten reacted in shock to itself alive, and looking at Mey-rin as it purs towards her.

"It's good thing your alive there, how did you end up here?" Mey-rin questions.

The kitten responds with a small meow, climbing onto Mey-rin who she picks it up and look at the gender.

"Your a girl huh? Your a beautiful black kitten, I'm sure my brother would've love you" Mey-rin pets her head.

The Apple Of Eden is glowing once again as the kitten reacted in scare as Mey-rin takes it from the bed.

"I know it's you Juno! Stop annoying me! I know what your planning! Stupid Fucking God!" Mey-rin threw it on the wall in frustration.

"Everything alright Mey-rin?" Sebastian calls her.

"Oh shit!" Mey-rin realized.

Mey-rin gets her Apple of Eden off the floor, putting in the drawer and reads her teacher book to pretend to be busy reading.

"Are you okay? It's sounds like your frustrated" Sebastian appears with a concern tone. "Yeah, I got frustrated reading French Mr. Sebastian" Mey-rin lied. "Oh, if you need help, I'll teach you how to read it" Sebastian mention.

"Meow" the black kitten spoke.

"A small black kitten, I didn't take you like cats" Sebastian smirks. "Yeah I do, it's a girl if you wondering" Mey-rin picks it up from the bed. "Any names you want to give her?" Sebastian asked. "Saber, I know it's a name of a weapon but it fits it for her" Mey-rin answered. "Nice name, where did you found her?" Sebastian asked. "I found her outside in the garden, she seems to be lost so I took her in, I'll make sure she isn't shown to the Young Master" Mey-rin answered with a smile. "Going up against the Young Master, that's surprising" Sebastian teased. "Not like you have full of cats in your closet" Mey-rin teased back. "Touche there" Sebastian agreed.

Sebastian pets Saber's small head as she purs.

"You and Lady Elizabeth seem to be talking more lately, did she mention about the Young Master?" Sebastian questions. "Yes we have, but she rather keep between us" Mey-rin answered. "That make sense, maybe she isn't ready for it though it question me why Elizabeth didn't visit these 2 weeks" Sebastian comments. "Didn't you get a letter from her?" Mey-rin questions. "Yes I did but it didn't answer what the Young Master want. It's very weird for her to not explain what happen to her" Sebastian stated. "Maybe she got busy with her family?" Mey-rin mention. "Maybe, but I'm hoping she comes today, the Young Master was really worried about her" Sebastian shows a hopeful tone.

Cue a knock on the door that Sebastian heard, going to it to see Lady Elizabeth in front of the door.

"Hey Sebastian! I hope I'm not disturbing you or anything like that" Elizabeth smiles. "No, not at all Lady Elizabeth, nice to see you again" Sebastian smiles back at her. "Umm, how Ciel been doing lately?" Elizabeth asked. "He's been worried about you for the past week, he always send me to the post office every day to make sure it's there. Once you send that letter that I got today from the post office, he was relief your okay from the letter he read but does questioned greatly why you didn't explain your absence" Sebastian informed. "Personal reasons, I didn't think it bothers him that much" Elizabeth frowned. "Well, it is out of character for you to not send a letter to him every week" Sebastian comments. "Oh... that make sense. Is Ciel busy today?" Elizabeth asked. "He's gonna take his break at the moment, I'll tell him you here today" Sebastian heads to his Young Master.

"I wasn't expecting you to be here" Mey-rin enters the scene with Saber. "Well, I was planning to visit you today but I guess Ciel wanted to see me this time" Elizabeth explained. "Ahhh, well yeah true, Ciel been questioning why you didn't come last week" Mey-rin stated. "Yeah, I don't want him to know that I'm translating a book from French to English that revolved around you and Sebastien" Elizabeth responded nonchalantly. "You have a point there" Mey-rin snicker. "To a point, you have a kitten on your shoulder" Elizabeth points at it. "Yep, I found it injured outside the garden, her name is Saber pets the kitten. "It's very cute" Elizabeth comment. "It is, completely" Mey-rin smiles in agreement. "Oh yeah, my mother told me if you want come and visit, she hopes that you'll come in normally then coming randomly" Elizabeth deflated.

Mey-rin laughs at her, she is no different than her brother when comes to bluntness! She knew Elizabeth would tell her mother anyway not like to get mad over it or anything.

"It's okay Elizabeth, I already figured that you tell your Mother, don't worry about it" Mey-rin smirks at her. "Yeah, yeah but where did you find Saber?" Elizabeth asked. "I found her outside when I was taking fresh air. She was almost died I revived her back to life using the Apple Of Eden and...." Mey-rin facepalm as the Saber meow and Elizabeth tilted her head. "What is it?" Elizabeth questioned. "I just realized I made Saber immortal now" Mey-rin groaned as she realized what she did.

Elizabeth laughs at this, now that's something new from Mey-rin! Mey-rin just give her the really look as Elizabeth calm down her laughter.

"I'm sorry but it's so funny that you did that without realizing. I mean, it's just human mistake Mey-rin, don't feel like it's a bad thing" Elizabeth smiles at her. "I...I guess your right there Lizzy" Mey-rin smiles back at her.

"Lady Elizabeth, The Young Master will be an hour break with you, I'll be serving you snacks and sweets" Sebastian appears. "Oh, that's new, he usually stay with me like 10-20 minutes with him" Elizabeth comments. "He does really want to spend time with you Lady Elizabeth, he didn't waste anytime to clear up his papers and put aside his work to spend time with you" Sebastian informed. "Oh that's nice to know, thank you Sebastian" Elizabeth smiles. "Of course my lady, what kind of butler will I'll be to not help the lord fiancee" Sebastian smiles in pride.

"I don't know, a discount French butler" The girls joked.

"Thanks Ladies" Sebastian chuckled at their jokes.

Elizabeth goes up the stairs as Mey-rin actually knew that it wouldn't last long. Sebastian noticed Mey-rin staring at Lady Elizabeth.

"Are you alright?" Sebastian asked. "I'm just worried for Elizabeth, that's all" Mey-rin answered. "With the Young Master? It's not like he's in a bad mood today" Sebastian mention. "I know but the Young Master is unpredictable you know" Mey-rin stated with a worry look. "I don't blame you, two girls have grown close, I don't know if it's a good thing or a bad thing" Sebastian stated. "Hmm... probably both there Sebastian" Mey-rin shrugged with a smile.

Saber meow as she jumps to Sebastian shoulders and purr against him. Mey-rin smiles at this moment as Sebastian enjoys the kitten affections for him.

"You remind me of my brother a lot, he loves cats completely, I remember he always help them, take care of them and help them get a home. The fact you love cats remind me of my brother so much, I miss him dearly, he always been a great brother of mine, S-" Mey-rin cover her mouth as she realized she was about to her brother name.

Mey-rin quickly ran off which questions Sebastian greatly, the fact Mey-rin mention she had or has a brother to him shocks him. Mey-rin close the door quickly as she cover her face in frustration that she open up to that easily to Sebastian

"What the fuck was Mey-rin, really?! How could you be that cares less over that moment! Just because he looks like your dear brother and act like him doesn't mean shit! He's a demon, that's all! How did I let that slip!" Mey-rin punch the wall.

Why did she open up to him? Mey-rin will admit she has a small crush on him but she doesn't know why still. Sebastian knocks on door as Mey-rin quickly composed herself as she opens the door.

"Sorry, I got lost in thoughts Mr. Sebastian. I didn't mean to say it" Mey-rin facepalm. "Don't worry about it, I didn't know you have a brother. Is he still alive?" Sebastian asked. "I...I don't know really, it's been years since I saw him" Mey-rin look away trying to hide her sadness in her face. "Oh, I'm very sorry, if he was alive somehow, I'm sure we'll both love to talk about cats" Sebastian smiles.

"Oh I don't know about that buddy" Mey-rin comments.

"Maybe, you may never know anyway, I'm just gonna rest up for today, you keep Saber for today Mr. Sebastian" Mey-rin smiles weakly. "Of course, I'll bring her back to her mother of course. Have a good rest Mey-rin" Sebastian waves off with a smile.

Mey-rin close the door as she slides down to ground, sigh in relief that Sebastian didn't ask more questions but still...she has to be more careful now.

"Ya know Sebby, I always wonder if you are still alive somehow...somehow" Mey-rin look up the ceiling.

At the same time, with Ciel and Elizabeth chatting in the study room.

"How come you didn't send me a letter during those weeks Lizzy? It is very out of character of you" Ciel begins to question. "Well, I've been practicing my fencing these weeks, I want to win the fencing tournament coming up in these couple months" Elizabeth explained. "That's right, I forgot you can fence" Ciel nodded his head slowly. "I don't blame you, I have reasons why I don't bring up certain things" Elizabeth stated.

Ciel clenched his fist under the table, knowing that it's his fault he didn't put any effort onto Elizabeth. No, he can be better than this, he'll make sure he'll put more effort to his lovely fiancee.

"Well, I'll be there to support you. I'll be proud you if make it far in the tournament, just please do your best and don't get hurt" Ciel stated with a show of concern in his face. "Sure, but umm no promises though we will be protected by the gear" Elizabeth laughs. "Yeah but you know, I don't like it when you get hurt and all the stuff" Ciel mutters. "Oh, that's nice to know. But I'll be fine, I'll be busy these months since but I'll tried to send you letters" Elizabeth mention. "Please do actually and tell me your progress there. If anything, I'll like to spend more time with you Lizzy, and I do want to be an active fiancee to you" Ciel stated.

"Don't believe it Elizabeth, just don't believe it, just pretend you do cause you know it's not gonna happen" Elizabeth mentally notes itself.

"Why thank you Ciel, I appreciate it" Elizabeth shows a fake smile. "Of course, just promise me Lizzy, that even if I don't expressed my love to you or anything, every time I see you come over yes annoyed but it makes me knowing that your okay. So please, keep sending letters. Just to know that your okay and all that stuff. I do cherish you Elizabeth" Ciel took her hand and show his genuine smile to her.

Elizabeth knew that it's the only moment she'll ever let her believe what Ciel said so those are the moments she cherish completely from him.

"Thank you Ciel, so do I" Elizabeth smiles while blushing.

After their moments together, Ciel heads back to work as Elizabeth heads to Mey-rin's room as she sit on her bed, reading her teacher book.

"Hey, how did it go?" Mey-rin asked. "It went... very nice actually. Ciel was very... out of character to me today but he expressed his emotions to me...I knew it wouldn't last long so I cherish that moment with Ciel. It suck to love a revenge killer and workaholic" Elizabeth smiles and chuckled bitterly. "I don't blame you but remember what I said to you, Ciel will always be the same, no matter what. Even though he can express how he felt about you....He'll never understand you" Mey-rin stated. "Yeah, yeah, I know that, and I'll always keep that in mind" Elizabeth responded with a sad smile. "And I have too keep that in mind as well with Sebastian" Mey-rin close the book. "Why?" Elizabeth questioned. "I've let myself slipped about my brother to Sebastian, I don't know how and why I let that slip" Mey-rin answered as she cover her face with a bitter smile. "Maybe because you yearn to be loved and understand?" Elizabeth explained.

Mey-rin laughed loudly at that statement, as Elizabeth knew it was stupid thing to say as she knew deep that Mey-rin yearned to be loved one day and maybe it will.

"It's probably because I'm tired and all that shit. But that was good laugh Elizabeth" Mey-rin smiles. "I guess so yeah" Elizabeth nodded with a small smile.

"Lady Elizabeth, your ride is here" Sebastian enters. "Thank you Sebastian, have a good day Mey-rin" Elizabeth waves off.

"You too as well Lizzy" Mey-rin spoke softly.

"Well anyway, time to make the young master supper, have a good rest Mey-rin" Sebastian smiles as he left.

Mey-rin took out the apple of eden from the drawer as she looks it again, not glowing at all this time. She sighs as she sense Saber who appears, purring onto her leg as Mey-rin pets her as Saber meows in delight.

"May whatever fate has up us cause we aren't over yet!" Mey-rin and Elizabeth spoke in determination.

Here is the 5th chapter, I hope it's really good, work has been kicking my ass lately 😞. But yeah, enjoy some good Sebamey and Cielizzy moments, I hope you like this chapter and see you in the next one guys!

[cometomecosette]

Character ask: Cosette

 Tagged by @ariel-seagull-wings

Favorite thing about them:

I like her for most of the same reasons I like classic versions of Cinderella or Snow White. She’s innocent, sweet, loving and caring, and she survives an early life of misery to not only find love and happiness herself, but to bring love and happiness to Valjean and later Marius when they most need it. I also like her gentle liveliness and playfulness (qualities that can get lost in the musical compared to the novel, though a good actress can bring them across) and her eagerness to experience life, and in the novel, I love the way she encourages Valjean to take care of himself and not overdo his pious, guilt-based self-denial.

Least favorite thing about them:

The fact that she lets Valjean withdraw from her life after she’s married (novel)/just before she gets married (musical). Of course it’s clear that she still loves him, she doesn’t realize he never intends to come back, and I always try to remind myself of her past trauma too – that because she was an abused child, it’s her instinct to obey and accept things without objection and put on a cheerful mask. But Hugo frames it less in that way and more as “She loves Marius more than she loves her father,” which is less sympathetic, no matter how he tries to present it as “natural.” I do like that the 2012 film of the musical makes her more heartbroken when Valjean leaves and clearly wistful and missing him even at her wedding party.

Three things I have in common with them:

*I have brown hair (yes, in the novel she has brown hair, even though 90% of adaptations portray her as a stereotypical blonde ingenue)

*I had a fairly sheltered upbringing

*I love gardens, music, and making other people happy

Three things I don’t have in common with them:

*I was never abused as a child

*I still haven’t found the right romantic partner

*I dress more for comfort than for fashion

Favorite line:

From the novel:

The lines where she dissuades Valjean from going without a fire in his room and from eating nothing but nasty black bread:

“I shall come here so often that you will be obliged to have a fire” and “Well, if you eat it, I will eat it too.”

Her teasing remark when she walks in on Valjean confessing his identity to Marius but doesn’t hear what’s being said:

“I will wager that you are talking politics. How stupid that is, instead of being with me!”

And from the last chapter, when Valjean is dying, but Cosette insists that he’s going to live and come home with her:

“We have a carriage at the door. I shall run away with you. If necessary, I shall employ force.”

From the musical:

All of “Castle on a Cloud.”

From “In My Life”:

“In my life, there are so many questions

And answers that somehow seem wrong.

In my life, there are times when I catch in the silence

The sigh of a faraway song.

And it sings of a world that I long to see,

Out of reach, just a whisper away,

Waiting for me!”

brOTP: Valjean, Fantine if only she could have known her, and Éponine in a different time and place where they could have been friends.

OTP: Marius.

nOTP: Valjean or Javert.

Random headcanon: In the novel, if not the musical, I think she has CPTSD. Maybe it’s a moderate case, since she doesn’t show many symptoms, but it would explain her passive, conflict-avoidant tendencies, and the fact that as a young woman she has barely any memory of her childhood before Valjean adopted her, even though she was eight years old at the time, not a toddler.

Unpopular opinion: In some circles, it would be unpopular to say that I like her at all, and don’t consider her deathly boring or “icky-gooey.” Another one might be that in adaptations, she doesn’t need to be made “feistier” or “more independent” to be interesting.

Song I associate with them:

“Castle on Cloud”

“In My Life” and “A Heart Full of Love”

Favorite picture of them:

Émile Bayard’s iconic illustration:

Eden Riegel, Broadway, 1990:

Rebecca Caine, with Simon Bowman as Marius, London, 1986:

Zoë Curlett, with an older Simon Bowman as Valjean, London, 2000:

Melissa Anne Davis, Broadway, 1992:

Christeena Michelle Riggs, Broadway, 1997:

Ali Ewoldt, Broadway, 2006:

Isabelle Allen, 2012 film:

Amanda Seyfried, 2012 film:

Virginie Ledoyen, 2000 French miniseries (a quirky adaptation, but one with a perfectly cast Cosette):

[bumblesimagines]

Green Thumb

Part 24

Request: Yes or No

Anddd we're back but this is hella short. Don't ask how y/n is able to get to so many places so quickly.

~

You glanced at the passenger seat, hearing your phone vibrating. The phone was connected to the car so you answered by pressing on a button on the steering wheel.

"Hello?"

"(Y/N)?"

"Wanda?" You breathed out, eyes widening. You pulled over to the side of the road, listening to her dry chuckle.

"I'm sorry I never got back to you.. I was.. I did something I shouldn't have. Do you have time?" Wanda asked. You could hear the exhaustion and guilt in her voice as she spoke. You sighed softly, relieved to know she was okay.

"Yeah, I have time. Send me the directions and I'll get there as soon as possible." You answered. Wanda hummed softly, hanging up.

"F.R.I.D.A.Y-"

"Already setting course."

"Thank you." You watched the steering wheel turn on its own, the car driving back onto the road. You picked up your phone, texting Bucky. You bit your bottom lip, gaze drifting to the flower resting on the floor of the passenger seat side. You had ignored any thought of visiting Gaia, choosing to spend time with the loved ones who had missed out on 5 years of your life.

"I can't believe I missed out on all your birthdays! You're officially a man now!" Sam said, fingers wrapped around his beer bottle. You rolled your eyes at him, shaking your head.

"Yeah, lucky me. You two stayed the same age while I got older." You huffed softly, chuckles leaving the two men.

"You still look the same." Bucky pointed out, running a metal finger down your cheek with a small smile.

"I bet you're gonna age like Jennifer Aniston. By the time you're in your fifties, you'll still look like you're in your twenties." Sam grinned.

"That'd be great." You chuckled, raising the bottle to your lips. You licked your lips afterward, tapping your fingers against the bottle.

"But, uh.. I'm not gonna age.. for a long time." You revealed. Sam blinked, staring at you.

"Apparently, I might age like a tree." You laughed softly, head shaking.

"Like a tree?"

"Like a tree."

You hummed as the car pulled down a road, leading to an area by the mountains. You noticed a cabin ahead, licking your lips. The car came to a slow stop, turning off. You got out, watching Wanda open the door. A smile spread across your face. Wanda returned the smile with a tired one of her own, walking towards you. She gently wrapped her arms around you.

"I messed up." Wanda said softly. You frowned, holding her as she buried her face in the crook of your neck. You pulled away, following her inside the cabin. She sat down on the couch, licking her lips.

"After we went to get Visions body.. I went to a town named Westview." Wanda began. You sat beside her, listening as she explained what she had done.

"I left and came here.. I feel horrible. I.. I let my pain take over and I ended up making innocent people suffer." Wanda frowned.

"Are the people-"

"Monica and the others will help them. I just.. I need to stay away and figure out my powers. I need to know what else I can do." Wanda rubbed her arms, gaze distant. You reached over, giving her knee a gentle squeeze.

"What have you been up to?" Wanda asked, smiling gently as she tilted her head, desperate for a change of topic.

"Bucky and I moved in together not long ago." You revealed. Wandas' brows rose as she licked her lips.

"Really? I'm happy for you, (Y/N). How's Bucky doing?"

"He's.. he's trying to get better. I'll support him every step of the way." You shrugged lightly, giving her a small smile.

"I also visited Gaia."

"How'd that go?"

You stared down at the fairy ring, a gentle breeze blowing by. Your hands were sweaty, nerves bubbling in your stomach. You were unsure on how Gaia would react to you visiting her. You swallowed, taking a step forward and entering the circle. You shut your eyes, the smell of wet rain disappearing and being replaced by the smell of roses. You opened your eyes, looking over the rose bushes. You were in a garden. The sky was cloudless and a forest surrounded the garden. You heard soft humming in the distance, following it to the center of the garden where a woman sat on a small white patio area.

“Take a seat.” The woman called, snipping the thorns off a red rose. You took slow steps towards the table, sitting down across from her. 

“What is this place?” You asked, head turning as you scanned your surroundings. 

“Some call this the Garden of Eden.” She answered, placing the rose down on the table. She finally looked at you, hazel eyes looking you over. You licked your lips letting out a soft sigh as your fingers played with the hem of your shirt. 

“Are you Gaia?” You asked softly. She nodded, smoothing out her dress as she stood up. 

“I haven’t seen you in years, (Y/N). How have you been?” Gaia asked, picking up the rose and walking to an empty patch of dirt. You scoffed, watching her drop the rose. The rose slowly grew into a rose bush. 

“I’ve been terrible, thanks for asking.” You replied, watching her turn towards you with slightly raised brows.

“You left me in an abusive orphanage with no family to contact. I’ve been through hell and back, Gaia. I lost my family, my best friends, my- my boyfriend.. Another father figure died. I don’t even know everything about myself!”

“But you have a family. You got them back and you’re part of that superhero team, aren’t you?” 

“Are you serious? They missed out on five years. I thought they were dead and gone forever! You’ve been missing from my life since the day I was born. Why create something that needs caring and then dump it aside?” Your jaw clenched as you stood up, staring at her. 

“I knew you wouldn’t be alone forever-”

“That doesn’t help the fact that I was abused, depressed, and suicidal for years!” You shouted at her, feeling a gust of wind abrupt from around you. The rose bushes surrounding the patio withered, petals falling.

“I would’ve rather been left with Tony Stark back in his old man fuckboy days.” You glared at her, fists clenching. Gaia let out a deep sigh, raising her hand and watching the color return to the roses. She ran her fingers through her hair, twirling a strand around.

“Why did you come here, (Y/N)?"

"To get answers but it seems like I won't get them."

"I didn't have high expectations but it was still pretty.. disappointing." You leaned back, rubbing your arms. Wanda placed a hand on your shoulder.

"You don't need her. You have the Bartons, Sam, Bucky.. me. The people who love you will always be with you." Wanda gave a smile. You nodded, letting out a soft sigh.

"Despite everything, I'm happy and that's all that matters. Whether she's in my life or not, I survived without her and I'll continue to do so."

[bruhlsbees]

garden of eden ; 1/5 || alex kerner x fem!reader

summary: on the day of east germany's 40th birthday, your entire life shifts before your eyes

pairing: alex kerner x fem!reader

warnings: drinking (alex and reader), protest violence, hospitals

word count: 6,714

a/n: here's the first chapter of garden of eden! i hope you enjoy and if you are interested in being added to the taglist please let me know! :)

taglist: @spookyanabarnes

October 7, 1989

Alex had stopped by your apartment after he woke up and got around for the day. He was annoyed just as much as you were about the parade of soldiers that galavanted around the city. It was East Germany’s 40th birthday and many of those who worked had the day off to celebrate. Alex, being one of them, perhaps didn’t celebrate it in the way East Germany intended, but indeed still did in his own way with you.

It didn’t take him long to walk over to your apartment, as you only lived a couple blocks away. Jogging up the stairs, Alex stopped to catch his breath on the last step before heading down the hall to your door, knocking on it harder than usual - just in case you were still sleeping. He wasn’t surprised to see you still not ready for the day. Your hair still pulled back in a messy ponytail, the makeup from yesterday smudged on your face and you were still in your pajamas. You were a mess, but you were his mess.

“What are you doing?” You asked, eyes heavy as you were still trying to wake up, moving off to the side for him to walk in, shutting the door behind him. You leaned against the door, arms crossed over your chest as you watched him turn, looking at you with his hands in his pocket.

“Remember? East Germany’s 40th?” He chuckled at the sight of you rolling your eyes, waving him off as you headed into the kitchen to grab something to drink from the fridge. You listened as he followed behind you, leaning against the doorway - watching you pull two beers from the fridge, opening the caps before handing one to him.

Alex was the one to take the first drink, letting his head fall back as the beer went down his throat, waking him up in the process. Pulling the bottle from his lips, tilting his head back down, Alex let out a sigh, wiping his mouth before setting the bottle on the counter.

“You still wanna hang out? Mom is gonna be gone tonight, figured we could watch a movie or something. Might have to watch Paula, but you don’t mind, right?”

Of course you didn’t mind watching Paula with him. His niece was a bundle of joy to be around and you loved holding her close to you, listening to her cute baby babble while she pulled at your hair in her tiny hand. You had known Alex for the better part of six years now and were stuck at each other’s side like glue. Alex’s sister, Ariane, always liked to tease him on that. - asking him where his shadow was, referring to you.

His mother, however, wasn’t overly fond of you like Alex always liked to say she was. You knew that Christiane tolerated you, and that was it. You tended to speak more freely on your dislike for East Germany - stating that you felt like a prisoner trapped in a cage. Alex’s mother often bit her tongue at your ideas, as she was a strong supporter of the Socialist Unity Party.

Alex and Ariane, while they had similar views to you, Christiane didn’t seem to jump down their throats as much as she did with you. This left you uncomfortable the majority of the time you were in the same room as her. Alex though, you knew he was close to his family. After his father left, the three of them stuck together, all still living under the same roof.

When you and Alex finished school you offered for him to move in with you. You even said that you’d apply for the two bedroom apartment on the floor below if he really wanted to move in. It wasn’t that you wanted him away from his family, but as his friend, his best friend, you only wanted what was best for him.

But here you were, around three years later and things still hadn’t changed.

“Where’s your mom going?” You asked casually, taking a swig from your own bottle, opening the cupboard to find something to eat. You decided on some bananas that were spotting brown - picking one from the bunch and peeling it, stuffing the fruit in your mouth.

You listened as he explained that she had been invited to something, what exactly though slipped his mind. You nodded, pulling some of your banana apart to give him some, finishing the rest and tossing the peel into the waste bin.

“Well, I’ll be sure to be on my best behavior for Mother. Wouldn’t want to upset her on the 40th.” Your sarcastic comment didn’t sit well with Alex, who caught your arm tightly as you walked past him, pulling you around to look down at you.

“Hey, I get you don’t agree with her. I don’t either, but you don’t have to be rude.” He was always a mother’s boy. Ever since his father left them, he was at her side caring for her like she was his god. You always kept your mother shut on it, knowing that it was obviously something Alex didn’t realize - and if he did he didn’t care enough to change.

You quickly pulled your arm out of his grip, glaring at him for grabbing you the way he did. You wouldn’t deny that what you said was probably rude, but he had to realize that it wasn’t like she was doing it to be a bitch - his mother was always at her throat, was he seriously expecting her to just sit back and take it?

“I’m not arguing with you on this, but you gotta think about how it makes me feel sometimes, Alex. Your mother makes comments and you just sit there and let her. How do you think it makes me feel? Knowing my best friend’s mother doesn’t like me-”

“Where are you getting that she doesn’t like you at? She does like you, she just shows it in a different way. Look, I’m sorry for not standing up for you, you always seem to handle it on your own so well that it just feels pointless to jump in,” He took a deep breath and watched as you rolled your eyes, crossing your arms over your chest, “How about this? Today if she starts something, I’ll tell her to back off, okay? I promise.”

You stared up at him for a moment, blinking slowly as you calmed yourself down. There were two things he said that really bothered you: you could handle yourself and pretended like he didn’t know why you thought his mother hated you. You could handle yourself, yes, but sometimes what you needed, wanted, was your best friend to have your back. Alex was also a horrible liar - of course he knew that his mother didn’t like you as much as she pretended. It didn’t take a genius to know that.

“Fine, fine. Whatever - can we just be done with this? I don’t want to be fighting over your mother right now. It’s too damn early.” You rubbed your eyes and felt him nudge you, looking up to see him smiling at you.

“I’ll wait for you out here. No rush.” Alex moved from the doorway and to the living room, settling in on your sofa before clicking on the television, mindlessly watching whatever station you left it on while he waited for you to get ready.

It didn’t take long for you to get around. You figured at most it took you twenty minutes, cleaning your face and redoing your hair, pulling on some jeans and a plain t-shirt, your sweatshirt thrown over. You grabbed your keys off your nightstand and headed back to the other room, grabbing some sneakers by the door and sitting down to slip them on.

By now the parade had made way to your side of the street, the music drowning out the television and your own thoughts. You watched as Alex clicked the television set off, standing up from the couch and stood above you, waiting until you finished tying your shoes before pulling you up. The two of you then headed out, you locking your apartment before joining him down the steps.

⋆ ⋆ ⋆

After spending some time sitting outside, watching as East Germany decorated the city with flags in honor of the 40th birthday, you and Alex decided that you had had enough of the day and headed back to his apartment. You all but avoided his mother as you walked in behind him, taking off your shoes at the door and setting them beside his own. Following him into his bedroom, once the door was shut you rushed to his bed, turning and flopping down on your side, the one closest to the wall.

You shook your head in though, hands placed on your stomach as he came and laid down beside you, his head resting on the pillow that he tucked under him. Even with his eyes closed, he still knew that something was troubling you.

“What is it?” He mumbled out, cheek squished against the pillow, tired from the night previous and the disruptive morning he had. It was a long night at work and when he got home, he was hoping to sleep in and get some sleep that he had missed from the extra shifts he had picked up. To his dismay, what he got was a wake up call from East Germany.

Letting out a sigh, you rolled onto your right side, propping your head up on your hand while looking down at him. You smiled at how his eyebrows were furrowed together, his small mouth pursed, as if he was trying to sleep. He looked cute, almost innocent, if it weren’t for the disgusted look on his face.

You opened your mouth to speak, but closed your mouth, deciding against it. Alex already had to listen to his mother talk about politics every day, the last thing he wanted to do was talk about them with you - or rather hear how his mother was blinded by East Germany. Besides, you hadn’t realized just how tired he was until you got back to his class. Even if you did want to talk with him about it, there was a good chance he would have fallen asleep before you finished.

“Nothing, just forget it.” You dropped your arm down and let your head fall onto the pillow that Alex wasn’t using, closing your eyes as you laid beside him, arms crossed at your chest while your legs curled into a ball. It looked as though you were trying to keep your body warm, but really you just liked the position. Sometimes Alex would pull you in, wrapping himself around you as you napped. You never thought much of it, it being so normal for you both - but when Ariane started the teasing, that’s when things got awkward.

It was incredibly cliche - you knew that - crushing on your best guy friend that you’d known for a good part of your life. It’s not like you were planning on it, but one day it just happened. You stopped looking at him like he was just one of ‘the boys’ and saw him for something more. You enjoyed the little things about him that you hadn’t seen before - the way his favorite blue striped shirt seemed to fit him smaller as the years went on, how he doted on Paula when nobody was looking, or even the way he would sit on the couch, manspreading yet making it look so good.

Okay, so you were in love with him - but what could you do about it?

Your relationship with Alex balanced between the realm of dating and family, as weird as that sounded. You were there for him in the way that families were meant to be there for each other, but consoled him during his lowest points the way a partner would. Alex never made any advantages towards you in the way that would make you uncomfortable - he treated you the same way you treated him, ‘like one of the boys’. You had a strong hunch that he didn’t feel any sort of romantic feelings towards you, and while it broke your heart, you moved on.

It was selfish of you to think, but despite you doing your best to convince yourself that you moved on, ignore the feelings that you obviously had for Alex, you still had a hard grasp when it came to the idea of Alex seeing someone. Being with someone and growing a bond the way that you had with him. He was a young boy- man now, you were surprised that it had been this long even for him to still not have a girlfriend.

So when Ariane woke the two of you up from your unexpected nap, explaining that there was a girl there for Alex - your heart sank. You did your best to not showcase your evident disappointment, watching as he smoothed his hair down and got up, making his way to the door. He looked out of his room and leaned back in, looking down at his sister.

“Where’s my visitor?” He asked, confused at the lack of a girl standing outside his door.

You smiled then, when you realized what Ariane was doing. She was teasing him with the idea of there being a girl for him, a date, when really his date was with the precious baby Paula. You shook your head and fell back into the pillows, closing your eyes as you listened to them.

“Your visitor’s name is Paula. She’s your date, as agreed.” You heard Alex groan, taking the baby from Ariane as he tried to protest.

“Can’t your ex mind her?” He questioned, only to roll his eyes and kick the door shut behind him as Ariane explained that he was on call for the day.

When you felt the bed dip back down beside you, you opened your eyes and looked to your right to see Alex laying on his back, holding Paula close to him. She began to fuss and the sigh that escaped from Alex prompted you up, motioning for him to hand Paula to you.

“She doesn’t like the noise, I’d assume. I wouldn’t blame her, poor girl’s ears are far too sensitive.” You found yourself talking in a baby voice, bouncing Paula in your lap to calm her down while Alex got up himself, rubbing his eyes before moving the pillows to make a makeshift bed for Paula to sleep in, seeing as though he wouldn’t be getting anymore sleep that day.

“Here, lay her down. Maybe she can get some sleep.” You did as Alex asked and carefully laid Paula down, watching as she fidgeted for a moment, whining in discomfort before hitting a spot that seemed to satisfy her enough. You smiled and placed your hand against her tummy, cooing her to calm down before watching as she yawned, slowly falling asleep.

“You’re pretty good at that you know?” Smiling, you looked over at Alex and shrugged, “I gotta be. You can hardly hold her without her crying.” Alex rolled his eyes at your comment, scoffing as you stood up, nudging him before he got up in suit, leading the way out of his room and into the living room.

You weren’t surprised to see his mother in there, talking with a friend about the sizes of women’s clothing. You held back rolling your eyes, moving to sit on their sofa while Alex sat behind you at the table. You picked at the loose thread on your jeans, ignoring as Christiane and her friend continued to draft the letter they would send in with their wishes.

It took everything inside of you to not make a remark towards their letter, claiming that the idea would never get past the mailbox. There was no denying that Alex’s mother was intelligent - she was good at what she did, but you knew that if she just listened to what you had to say, what Alex and Ariane had to say, she could do more things that would help Germany.

Your thoughts were pulled out when you noticed Alex walk in front of you, turning the television set on before going back to his seat. Your attention, now fixed on the broadcast of the celebration of East Germany’s 40th birthday.

“Look at them, celebrating themselves, the old farts.” You smirked at Alex’s comment, looking down to shake your head as you tried to bite back your laugh. The mood turned sour quickly though, not that you were surprised, when Christiane told Alex that he didn’t have to watch.

Setting his coffee cup down, Alex pointed towards the television, looking at his mother, “Can’t you see what’s going on?” He questioned, eyebrows furrowed.

Pausing the current piece she was ironing, Christiane set her hands on the ironing board, looking at Alex, “What do you want to do?” She asked him suddenly, her tone sharp, “Emigrate? Nothing will ever change if everyone emigrates.”

You glanced over at Christiane, watching as she quickly returned back to drafting the letter. It was something you learned over time that she did. Whenever someone would make a rebuttal against something that went against her own personal views, she would move on from the situation before you could get the next word in, always letting her have the final word.

When you caught glances with Christiane, you found yourself not pulling from the gaze that the two of you locked on one another. It was like a silent conversation going on - both of you daring the other to say what they were thinking. Before you got the chance to speak, or her for that matter, you heard Paula begin to fuss from the other room.

“I got her.” You explained, motioning for Alex to stay where he was, heading back into his room. You heard Ariane thank you from the bathroom as she got ready while you made your way towards the bed, picking Paula up with a smile.

“Hi there sweet girl, is it too loud for you?” You hummed gently and held her close, resting her head under your chin as you rocked her in your arms. You listened as her crying faltered into a low whining, her tiny hands gripping at your shirt. Smiling weakly, you moved your head back to kiss the top of her head.

You were happy to hear the parade soldiers finally moving on from the side of town you and Alex lived on, moving to go towards another part of the city. The music fading until you were left standing in Alex’s bedroom in silence. When you figured it was safe to lay Paula back down, you carefully placed her back on his bed, making sure she was secured in the middle of the pillows before standing back up.

When you turned around, you were met by Alex who had just walked in his room, shutting the door behind him. You smiled and motioned towards Paula who was on his bed, finally asleep.

“She’s asleep this time, don’t think we have to worry about her waking up anytime soon,” You put your hands on your waist as he approached you, smiling down at you while you smiled back at him, “I should be compensated for my services - without me she’d never settle down.”

You both laughed, maybe a little too loud with the sleeping baby in the room, but Alex could only shake his head and move around you to look out his window, watching as the parade soldiers became smaller and smaller until disappearing from sight. Turning around, you moved your arms up and over your chest, crossing your arms as you watched him from your spot in the middle of his room.

“I hear there is going to be a protest tonight. You wanna go and check it out?” He asked, moving to the chair that was at his desk finally, looking up at you.

The older Alex got, the more he found himself wanting to be involved with protests and politics. Growing up with a mother who was heavily involved with Socialist Unity Party meant he was already surrounded by politics, but when he got older and formed his own views, it meant for him to be more vocal on it. You weren’t surprised when he asked if you wanted to see what it was all about, he often heard about protests going on and dragged you with them. You weren’t the protest type, however, so you were hesitant.

“I don’t know, I’m not sure if it’ll be a good ide-”

“It’s not going to get out of hand, if that’s what you’re worried about. We’ll walk with them, hold up our signs, chant, and come back home,” He leaned forward and extended his hands out to you, in which you took without question, “If it gets out of hand we will leave. I just want to see what it’s all about.”

You trusted Alex and his judgement, for the most part, so it didn’t take long for you to agree, smiling when he squeezed your hands before pulling away, leaning back in the chair. You shook your head and sat at the end of the bed, leaning against his wall.

“If it gets out of hand though, we’re gone. I don’t need to be the one explaining to your mother why you ended up in prison.”

You were caught off guard by Alex who leaned across the arm of his chair to kiss your cheek, blushing as you felt his warm breath against your ear.

“You worry too much, you know that?”

When you felt him return back to his seat, you looked down at your lap, a smirk on your face as you tried to not show your obvious enjoyment of the intimacy - knowing that for Alex it was nothing more than just a friendly kiss, but to you, it was more.

⋆ ⋆ ⋆

Everything happened so quickly. You didn’t have time to process what had even happened until it was too late. Alex was taken, Christiane had fallen - you were all alone in the middle of a peaceful protest gone wrong.

The protest was going smoothly for the most part. You kept close to Alex as the two of you walked among the other protestors, voicing that it was the people of East Germany’s right to be able to go on walks freely without the Wall getting in their way. You weren’t surprised with how underwhelming it was - it seemed that many protests were mostly filled with older couples sluggishly moving down the streets, or younger people like you and Alex who just followed what everyone else was doing.

Walking beside you, Alex was repeating the current chant ‘Freedom of the Press!’ while crunching down on the apple that he was given to by someone in the crowd. His brain wasn’t entirely focused on chewing fully - chanting with the others.

“Alex, you’re going to choke on that.” You warned, watching as he rolled his eyes, continuing on, “Am not.”

You rolled your eyes at his stubbornness, continuing on as you ignored the fear in the back of your head of him choking on his apple. No matter how often he liked to remind you that he was an adult and could handle himself - you always reminded him back that you were the older one and that men weren’t as smart as women.

So when he finally did choke on the apple, his words cutting short, you couldn’t say you were surprised. Coming to a stop beside him, you looked down and shook your head, bending him forward while he tried to cough up the apple.

“Come on, Alex! Spit it out!” You tried to hit his back hard enough for him to spit the bit of apple out, but even your heavy hand couldn’t get it out. You grew worried, thinking the worst as you looked around, hoping to find someone that could help. But nobody seemed to notice Alex as soldiers now stood ahead of the protest, linking arms to block them from going by.

It was a girl your age that finally approached, quickly hitting him on the back, bringing his posture up so he could cough up the apple - and thank heavens did it work.

Gasping when you finally saw the fruit shoot out from his mouth, you grabbed his arm and looked at him, “Alex! Are you okay?”

He seemed to be spaced out though, gasping for air as he looked at you, nodding once before at the girl who saved his life.

“Are you okay?” She asked, pausing in the middle of the protest to be sure. You watched as he smiled shyly at her, nodding and thanking her before she took off ahead to catch back up to where she originally had been at.

Before you could scold Alex, you watched him take off suddenly ahead of you, chasing after the girl that saved his life. With your mouth open, you raised your hands in frustration before fighting through the crowd to catch up with him.

“Alex! Wait!”

You desperately fought the people in front of you, forcing your body to squeeze through the crowd to find Alex. By now the police had shown and the sirens were echoing the streets, ringing in your ears as both the soldiers and cops yelled at the protestors to stop and go back. You knew that Alex wouldn’t stop - of course he wouldn’t, he would go head first into the fire to prove something. Damn him and his fucking ego.

While trying to force yourself past the crowd of people, you fumbled forward onto the hard gravel, hissing as your palms scraped against the road. You were lucky not to be trampled over and thankful when you felt someone grab you by your arms, pulling you up.

“Careful! You could’ve been run over!”

You turned around, gasping as you stumbled back, regaining your posture. You frowned at the man who was looking at you, a worried expression washed over his face. He couldn’t have been much older than you, in his late twenties at most.

“Are you okay? Your hands, they are-”

“I’m fine!” You didn’t mean to snap at him, but you were desperate to catch up to Alex before you lost him, or something worse happened, “Thanks, but I have to go. I have to find my friend.”

You ignored the disappointed look on the man’s face when you turned around, going back to pushing through the crowd, calling out for Alex before you finally broke through to the front, the trucks now barricading the protestors in, the cops trying to catch whoever attempted to run off while soldiers pulled people out.

It was a goddamn shit show. You flinched when you heard the first initial cry - your attention moved to an older woman who was pulled by a soldier, thrown to the ground before getting viciously kicked in her side. You needed to find Alex, and fast.

You did your best to ignore the tears that were welling up in your eyes, sniffling as you frantically began to look through the crowd, jumping up to look over the wave of people who were now scattering across the street. Alex was still nowhere in sight and the chaos that erupted around you suddenly only grew worse. You didn’t even realize that you yourself had been grabbed by one of the soldiers until you were being pulled off to the side.

“Let go of me! I didn’t do anything!” You found yourself shouting, hands flat against the soldier’s chest as you tried to push yourself away. His grip only tightened as he roughly pulled you with him, your heels desperately trying to dig into the gravel.

“Quit fighting! You’re coming with me! Not a chance I’m letting you go-”

He stumbled back when your spit slapped him in the face. When his grip loosened from your wrist you took the chance to break free, stumbling back as you watched him grow red, going for his baton that was at his side. Feeling your heart sink, you continued to stumble backwards until you found yourself toppling over someone, landing on your back as the soldier approached you both, the baton now in his hand and high in the air.

You were waiting to be beaten, knowing that it would eventually come, but to your surprise it didn’t. Your hands were above your head, cowering with the other person that was with you as the two of you prepared for the worst.

When you heard the sirens, the shouting of more soldiers approaching, you looked up and saw the crowd begin to flee, running back to where the protest walk started. Some soldiers chased after them, grabbing some that were too slow to pull them back and into the trucks that would take them to prison. Other soldiers just stayed back, assisting where they could.

“Come on, you’re coming with us!”

The soldier that originally grabbed you forcefully yanked you up by your collar, pushing you towards the truck with your hands now behind your head. Your tears were now freely falling down your cheeks, your heartbeat thumping in your ears as reality soon sinked in.

Alex was still nowhere in sight. You were being taken to prison for the protest.

Before you were escorted onto the back of the truck, you heard your name be called out. Turning, you noticed Alex who was fighting with the guards that were on him, trying his best to break free and rush to you. You did the same, flailing your body around and kicking at the soldier who continued to pull you at the truck.

You knew something was wrong when the world around you seemed to freeze, the painful ringing in your ears as your brain felt heavy. Alex’s attention pulled from your own, off to the side where his mouth fell open, the tears welling in his own eyes. Your own gaze followed his line of sight, looking at where he was looking to see his mother on the ground unconscious.

Everything felt slow passing by, yet it all happened so quickly. Alex tried to break free and run to his mother, calling out to her as he was grabbed by the guards again, kicked and punched at to slow him down before dragging him into the back of the truck, before the truck drove off.

You were pulled back into the present, everything around you suddenly becoming clear again and moving around you at a normal pace. Your body was slacked in shock as you watched the truck Alex was placed in drive off, before looking at his mother on the ground.

“Please,” You began, turning towards the soldier who had a grip on you, “My friend’s mother, she’s over there. I think something is wrong. Please, I need to help her, she could be in danger.”

You wanted to believe that there was still good in this world, that the soldiers of East Germany cared even a miniscule amount about the people. And perhaps they did, or it was your own luck that gave you the chance to go after her. You didn’t stick around to wait, feeling the soldier let go of your wrist before nodding for you to go.

You were by Christiane’s side in seconds, on your knees as you cradled her head in your hands, shaking her slightly, “Christiane! Christiane! Please, wake up!” Your head fell to her chest and you listened for a heartbeat and when you didn’t hear one you screamed out for help, pleading with anyone who listened for help.

It was an older guard who finally approached you, kneeling on the other side while he looked over Christiane. He checked her pulse and moved far too slow for your liking.

“She’s not breathing, damnit! She needs medical attention!” You found yourself screaming. The guard fell back on his knees, looking at you intensely before down at Christiane. He stood up and you figured he gave up on you before his whistle caught your attention. The lights from the ambulance illuminated off of your face, your hand going up to block the light, eyes squinting to see what was happening.

Christiane was pulled up onto a stretcher by the two medical responders in the truck, placed in the back before one of them stopped and looked down at you.

“Are you going with her?” He asked you, waiting for your response before he went back to the truck to leave. For a moment you didn’t process what he had asked you, still in shock with everything that happened. But when you finally came to again, you looked at him and nodded, standing up and climbing into the back of the truck.

It didn’t take long for Ariane to arrive at the hospital. You knew that Alex wouldn’t have been able to be reached and you hoped that Ariane would answer. She did, thankfully, and said she would be there after she dropped Paula off at her father’s. You sat with Ariane outside of her mother’s room, holding her in your arms as she sobbed into your chest, your own tears silently falling. You had been informed that Alex would be let go from prison, given his mother’s current state of health. The heart attack she suffered led her into a coma and there was no telling when, or if, she’d ever wake up.

Despite the doctor still standing in front of you, Ariane and yourself weeped together, comforting one another until Alex arrived. When the footsteps approached down the hall, the three of you turned, seeing Alex rushing down the hall. Ariane was the first up, meeting her brother into a hug while you stayed seated, chewing on your nails as you waited for Ariane to deliver the news to him. You tried to ignore the bruising on Alex’s face, but you couldn’t help but tear up even more at the beaten state of him.

“She had a heart attack.” Ariane choked out, finally able to answer Alex’s question on what was wrong with their mother. You closed your eyes and felt your head sink, taking a deep breath to calm yourself down. Even with their differing political views, Alex and Ariane were still close with their mother. The idea of losing her was not something they dwelled on. Even you, someone who was not fond of the woman, was broken at the news.

“CPR was performed rather late,” The doctor began, approaching Alex and Ariane, “She’s in a coma.”

Alex seemed to be in a lost state of mind, desperately trying to process everything that the doctor was telling him. He tried to ignore Ariane’s weeping as he stared ahead at the doctor, “When can I talk to her?” Alex asked.

Your head snapped up at the question, looking at Alex sadly as you listened to his question. He was so innocent in the mind, not understanding what was wrong with his question and why you all looked at him the way you did. His cheeks went red and his eyebrows furrowed.

“Alex, Mama is in a coma!” Ariane explained, perhaps a bit too forceful for your liking, but you knew that in the moment it was something that maybe Alex needed. The doctor didn’t offer much reassurance either, as he explained that it was uncertain if Christiane would ever wake up.

Looking at the doctor, before his eyes glanced down at you, Alex pushed Ariane away before moving towards the room his mother was in, opening the door and shutting it behind him, wanting a moment to himself with her. The doctor, who didn’t have anything else to add, offered his condolences before leaving you and Ariane outside the room.

“Ariane...I-”

“What happened? Why did Mama have a heart attack?” Ariane demanded, glaring down at you. It felt like she was pointing the blame towards you, since you were the one who brought her in. You did your best to ignore the guilt that settled on you, shaking your head.

“Alex he- he wanted to go to the protest that was being held. It was going okay at first, but then the soldiers came. The cops came. We were going to be taken but when Alex was grabbed I- I don’t know, your mother must have seen and it was too much for her.”

You let your face fall into your hands, hunched over in your seat as your own sobs finally let out. Your body began to shake as you continued to cry, reality settling in with what happened and the fear of what was to come.

Ariane felt guilty herself, snapping at you the way she did. She knew that you would follow Alex wherever he went, even if it weren’t the best of places. She moved and sat down beside you, sniffling as she pulled you into her arms, letting your head rest in her lap, rubbing your back.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to snap.” She whispered, stroking your hair as your cries began to dull. “Thank you for bringing Mama here. If you hadn’t, I fear she may not be with us at all.”

You heard Ariane whimper, the thought of their mother dying that night frightening her. She continued to console you, giving you the comfort you gave her, until you finally calmed down. Ariane moved your head carefully up, looking at you while brushing your tears off your face.

“Alex, he...I’m worried to know how he is going to be. You two are close, you love each other - please, please just watch him for me. I don’t want him to spiral from this. I know he will blame himself for what happened, but it’s not his fault.”

You nodded at what Ariane told you, leaning your forehead against hers as she embraced you, pulling away moments later to stand up and gather her things.

“I’m going to go get Paula, head back home. I-I will come back in the morning. I don’t expect you to stay but...if you could stay with Alex until I come back, I would appreciate it. I just need to get some things around the house. I-”

You cut Ariane off with your hand on her, looking up at her as she stopped in her tracks. “Ariane, please, it’s okay. Go and do what you need to do, I’ll be here.”

The corners of her mouth twitched, nodding before turning and heading down the hall to leave, leaving you alone until Alex came back out. You wondered if he heard Ariane leave, because only moments later he was exiting the room, looking at you blankly.

Standing up, you frowned and opened your mouth to speak, but before you could get a word out, Alex was hugging you, sobbing into the crook of your neck. You held him, of course you did, your hold around him tight as you smoothed his hair down and gripped his jacket in your other arm. You ignored the damp feeling against your skin from his tears, doing your best to hum him into a state of semi-peace.

You managed to coax him to the chair that you and Ariane had been seated on together, letting him rest his head on your lap, his hands grabbing at your knee. You continued to run your fingers through his hair, your other hand resting at his side. He let out the occasional whimper, sniffling his tears away until sleep finally consumed him.

You, on the other hand, didn’t sleep that night. Your own thoughts buzzing with what happened and wanting to stay awake for Alex in case something happened with his mother. You were surprised that Alex fell asleep so easily, but you assumed that because of what he went through that night, he was more exhausted than you were. It didn’t matter though, you stayed with him, holding him close until the sun rose the next day.

[snappedsky]

Borderlands: Skies the Bodyguard 5

Skies helps Wainwright, Hammerlock, and the Vault Hunters find the third Vault Key fragment.

*Links to previous and next chapters in reblog*

--

Chapter 13

           With the Vault Key fragment placed snugly in her inventory, Skies fast travels from the Ambermire to Sanctuary III. As soon as she’s digistructed in the Crew’s Quarters, she’s greeted by an unfamiliar voice.

           “Ay, welcome aboard!”

           Skies flinches and looks around but sees no one the voice could be coming from. She leans towards a nearby Pandoran and asks, “did you hear that too?”

           “I’m BALEX,” the voice says, “the ship’s new navigator.”

           “Oh,” she sighs with relief, “an AI. Nice to meet you, I’m Skies. When do you show up?”

           “Not long ago. It was a whole adventure with the Vault Hunters, ya just missed them.”

           “Does that mean they found the Vault Key fragment?” she asks as she makes her way through the ship.

           “Sure did. I mean, I did most of the work but they helped. They gave it to that Tannis chick.”

           “I would appreciate not being called a ‘chick’,” Tannis states as Skies enters the infirmary. Lilith is with her. They both look at Skies expectantly.

           “Here ya, one fragment,” Skies says as she removes the key piece from her coat. “Hot off the presses.”

           “Excellent,” Tannis purrs as she gingerly takes the fragment and walks away with it.

           “Nice work, Skies,” Lilith remarks and Skies feels her chest heat up. “You know, Wainwright has been trying to get a hold of you. We thought something had happened.”

           “Oh, really? I had to turn off my ECHO,” Skies replies as she turns on her ECHO device. Immediately, Wainwright’s voice blasts out.

           “Skies! There you are!”

           “Sorry, I was getting spam calls,” she replies as she exits the infirmary. “What’s up?”

           “Did you find your Key fragment?”

           “Sure did. Easy peasy.”

           “Good. Come meet us back at the lodge. We could use your help in getting the third.”

           “On my way.”

          Skies hurries through the ship to the fast travel station, and fast travels to Knottypeak Lodge. Wainwright, Hammerlock, and the Vault Hunters are all there waiting.

           “Good, we’re all here,” Hammerlock states as the Vault Hunters wave happily at Skies.

           “I got the fire in my breast and a gun in my hand,” Wainwright says excitedly, “we’re gonna take back the last Key fragment and I figured out where it is. The Jakobs powder cellar!”

           “Cool. What’s that?” Skies asks.

           “That’s where my family cask-ages our signature gunpowder,” he explains, “my father must’ve hidden the fragment in a barrel of Grand Reserve black powder before the Calypsos arrived. An ally of mine, Clay, knows a secret way in. Vault Hunters, go meet up with him.”

          “This will require a two-pronged attack. Vault Hunters, while you infiltrate the cellar, Alistair, Skies, and I will slip past the harpy’s zealot guard. Tonight, we take back Jakobs.”

           “Hear hear!” Hammerlock cheers.

           Skies smiles excitedly as the Vault Hunters wish her luck and take off.

           “So what’s the plan?” she asks.

           “While the Vault Hunters make their way through the cellar, we’ll have to get to the delivery controls,” Wainwright replies, “follow me.”

           The three of them go to the fast travel station and he inputs a code before digistructing away.  

           They arrive on the Jakobs estate near some gardens behind the manor. As they approach a nearby door, they’re immediately met with COV.

           “Looks like they’ve been waiting for us,” Wainwright says.

           “Don’t worry, I can handle them,” Skies replies and quickly blasts them all way.

           “Skies, Winny,” Hammerlock says, grabbing their attention. “I cannot excuse Aurelia for what she’s done to you, Winny, and the people of Eden-6. She must answer for her crimes, but she is still my sister. If I could speak to Aurelia, face-to-face, I might convince her to surrender. Enough blood has been shed. And sometimes the bonds of family can be repaired. I ask only for a brother’s chance.”

           Wainwright scoffs. “I doubt that harpy will listen.”

           “I don’t know Aurelia, so I don’t know how she’ll react,” Skies replies, “but if she tries to hurt either of you, I will not hold back.”

           They enter the manor into a kind of den, which looks like it was ransacked by the COV.

           “The Vault Hunters should be in the cellar just below us now,” Wainwright explains, “they have to get to the barrel delivery pipe. Then using the controls, we’ll deliver to them the Grand Reserve cask, which should hold the Key fragment.”            They exit the den into a short hall filled with cultists. They all immediately stand at attention, guns ready.

           “No problem,” Skies grunts, raising her rifle.

           The trio make their way down the hall while Skies sprays the cultists with bullets. Whenever she has to reload, Wainwright takes over with his shotgun until she’s ready to fire again.

           They make it through the door at the end of the hall just as Wainwright’s ECHO communicator goes off.

           “Wainwright, we have arrived,” FL4K says.

           “Right on time, Vault Hunters,” he replies as they walk across the room to a door in the wall. “We’re at the controls now.”

           He opens the door, revealing a cluster of levers, switches, and dials.

           “It’s a closet full of colour-coded levers and dials!” Hammerlock gasps, appalled. “Winny, you didn’t tell me we needed to solve an elaborate puzzle.”

           “Nonsense, an elaborate puzzle is its own reward!” Wainwright argues, “Vault Hunter, all you have to do is push the request button by the delivery pipe and open the tube near you. We’ll solve this puzzle on our end.”

           “Let’s see…” he mutters as he begins pulling levers. “That’s this lever here, crank back the amplitude here…”

           “Winny, hurry,” Hammerlock begs as he looks around worriedly. “If my sister finds us…”

           Wainwright ignores him. “Set the dial to ‘cupcake’, pull the silver chain…and here it comes, Vault Hunter!”

           A muffled explosion is heard on their end.

           “Definitely not,” Zane says.

           “Damnation,” Wainwright grumbles, “Alistair, Skies, look around for clues.”

           “I love an elaborate puzzle as much as anyone,” Skies says as she searches around the many knickknacks in the room. “But does this have to be done every time someone wants to deliver a barrel? Not very efficient for a factory.”

           “I found a stuffed fish with a code on it! That’ll be the answer!” Wainwright cheers, “Alistair, read me the clues and I’ll solve it.”

           “I am hardly in the mood to- oh, fine, here,” Hammerlock groans and reads off the fish. “Eagle crab seven wendigo.”

           “This is the fun part, Alistair! Try to enjoy it,” Wainwright replies as he inputs the code.

           “He’s not wrong, Hammerlock,” Skies agrees, “where’s your adventurous spirit?”

           “I’m not in a very adventurous mood,” he grumbles.

           Their attention is grabbed when the door on the opposite end of the room flies open and COV spill in.

           “Hell’s bells!” Wainwright curses, “the fish was a red herring! Watch out for more zealots, Vault Hunters!”

           “Jakobs, figure out that code!” Skies orders as she fires at the cultists. “I’ll handle these jerk-offs.”

           As she keeps the bandits bottle-necked at the door, Wainwright hurries around the room, searching for clues. Hammerlock watches him impatiently.

           As the COV finally thin out, he says, “Winny, will you please hurry up with this? I do not relish the notion of a confrontation with my sister.”

           “God damn it, Alistair, my father’s dead, my company is in the hands of bandits, and I’m trading away my inheritance because I had to save your life!” Wainwright barks back. “If I have to enjoy myself while solving the last puzzle my father left for me, I damn well shall.”

           “I…you’re right, I’m sorry,” Hammerlock replies, “so in that case, I should not point out the code written on the ceiling?”

           “What?” Wainwright questions as everyone looks up. “Aw, damn. Blue lever, white button, brass chain- Alistair, you beautiful bastard! This is it!”

           “Wow, how did we not notice that?” Skies questions.

           “Vault Hunters, press the button!” he orders.

           Everyone waits tensely for a second before the Vault Hunters victoriously cheer, “the Grand Reserve!”

           “Haha! What’d I tell you?” Wainwright laughs, “easy as pie. Key fragment should be right inside.”

           “Got it,” Fl4K replies.

           “A team success is what that is,” he declares, “now we can open the Vault! Come meet us near the gardens. I’ll open up the way for you. Just follow the conveyor system out of the room.”

           He pushes a button and turns to Hammerlock and Skies, smiling widely. “Let’s be on our way. We’re almost done.”

           They both smile back at him and leave the room.

           They go back outside and through the gardens into the back of the house.

           “No COV,” Skies remarks, “it’s quiet.”

           “Good. I’ve gotten tired of those vermin running around,” Wainwright replies.

           They enter a large sitting room to wait for the Vault Hunters and he sits in an old chair, sighing contently.

           “Nearly done it! Hah, I wish I could see the look on that harpy’s face when she finds out!”

           “Wish granted. Hands above your heads, please.”

          They all jump as they see Aurelia approach from the other side of the room, pointing a pistol.

           “Vault Hunters, hurry, we’ve been found!” Hammerlock exclaims.

           “They can’t save you, Alistair,” she chuckles with sick delight.

           “Back off, ice queen,” Skies snarls and raises her rifle.

           “No, wait!” Hammerlock cries and pushes the barrel down just as she fires, causing her bullets to litter the floor by Aurelia’s feet. Skies looks at Hammerlock with surprise until she notices Aurelia point her hand at them, then she shoves him out of the way.

           Ice travels along the floor and sticks up into large, sharp icicles that stab into Skies’ torso. She gasps in pain as she drops her gun. Aurelia pulls the icicles back and Skies falls to her knees, doubling over.

           “Harpy!” Wainwright hisses and aims his shotgun but Hammerlock holds him back.          

           “Aurelia. As your brother, I implore you to stop this,” he begs.

           “Step aside, Alistair,” Aurelia says, “while I trim the last loose end of the Jakobs line.”

           “If you want to kill Wainwright, then you will have to-.”

           Aurelia fire her gun through Hammerlock and into Wainwright. Skies gasps and tries to get to her feet but before she can, Aurelia freezes all three of them in a block of ice.