#Dan Howell fluff

[gaydreaming-ao3]

Workaholic corporate lawyer Dan Howell is drowning in the details of a case that's particularly hard to rationalize when his grandmother invites him to spend Christmas with her in the picturesque suburban town of Rawtenstall. While begrudgingly visiting, Dan stumbles into a laidback farmhand who catches his eye and his heart.

Also, he discovers the meaning of Christmas. As one does.

---

12k, complete, locked in on this one fam

[bbcradio1phil]

2010 dan and phil flipping pancakes- my favorite

[gremlinshatephilosophers]

Part 3 of dead wife movie montage series in the tiny horse cinematic universe, this time we’ve made it to November!

Perfect like a picture, even when they look through the grains

Rating: G

Words: 1,335

Summary: Dan and Phil having a cozy night in with red wine, taking photos for a holiday card and taking videos for each other.

For context, this can be read as a standalone like the others, and takes place eleven months after Till Death Do Us Part and a little more than two years after Love, September

(And for anyone who's here for the original premise, I promise this is the last fluffy little standalone segment, we will get to the dead wife montage tomorrow!)

[cozyfoxy]

Come Over

Summary: Dan and Phil's relationship is blossoming, but Dan is terrified to let Phil into his home, so he keeps pushing him away. He however, slowly learns that Phil is someone who could make his house into a home. Based loosely on "Come Over" By Noah Kahan.

Warnings: None, slight angst but nothing bad, pure fluff

Read on AO3

Dan zipped up his backpack with a quiet sigh, setting it beside the door of Phil’s bedroom. It was his last night of staying with Phil and his family for the third time in three months; and he didn’t want it to end. He loved being able to go outside at night, laying in the grass and watching the stars. He loved that the Lesters had just accepted him as their own, like he had always been around. He loved even more, that being with Phil truly felt like home. 

Phil walked into the bedroom, brushing his teeth with foam dripping down his chin. He tried to say something to Dan, causing more foam to spill from his mouth and onto the green carpet beneath him. The brunette couldn’t help but laugh at his best friend, handing him a tissue quickly. 

“Maybe go finish brushing your teeth before you speak Philly.” Dan teased, shaking his head as Phil darted back into the bathroom. 

A couple of minutes later, Phil walked back into the room with a shy smile, “I was trying to say that I don’t want you to leave.” he explained, sitting next to Dan on the bed.

The younger of the two smiled sadly and leaned his head against Phil’s shoulder, “and I don't want to leave, but I have to. Hopefully it won't be long before I come back. I’ll have enough money for tickets saved up again soon.” he hummed, thinking about his savings. 

“Perhaps I can come to yours this time!” Phil suggested with a smile, “I wanna meet your family and see your town.” 

Dan felt a nervous tremor run down his spine, making him feel hollow and cold, “um… yeah but I really like coming to yours. Besides I don't want you spending money on tickets, I know you’re saving to get a flat.”  

Phil raised his eyebrows at Dan, moving to wrap his arm around the younger’s shoulders, “I have plenty of money saved, and Youtube is taking off. I’m actually making money from it now. I don’t mind paying to come see you Dan.”

Despite his anxiety, Dan felt himself melt against Phil in relaxation. It was their last night together for awhile, he couldn’t bring himself to ruin it with his fruitless arguments. Instead of arguing, Dan closed his eyes and nodded against Phil’s shoulder; feeling the other's arm wrap gently around his midsection.

“Let’s get some rest, yeah? It’s already midnight and I know you hate sleeping on the train home.” Phil hummed, guiding Dan into the bed and under the warm duvet.

Dan quickly forgot his previous worries, instead staring into Phil’s ocean blue eyes with a smile, “I can’t believe I’m in bed with the AmazingPhil! Younger me would never believe that you even replied to my comments.” he teased, kissing Phil’s cheek. 

Phil rolled his eyes fondly, “well you were very insistent… and cute. Of course I had to talk to you. It helps that you actually like a lot of the same things as me. And that you’re cute… wait I already said that.” He laughed, sticking his tongue out slightly from the right side of his mouth.

Dan  groaned and hid his face, feeling his cheeks heat beneath his own hands. He would never get used to Phil calling him cute, or beautiful, or anything really. He couldn’t believe that someone as perfect as Phil could see him in ways that he could never see himself. 

“I am not cute Phil,” Dan argued weakly, making a pouty face before burying his face into Phil’s pale chest, taking a deep breath. He smelled like strawberries. 

Phil laughed, making Dan’s head vibrate slightly with the movement, “you can’t argue that you’re not cute and then cuddle me!” He argued, pulling Dan closer and running meaningless patterns over the tanned man’s back, “try and sleep baby. Sweet dreams.” 

Dan’s breathing quickly evened out with Phil holding him close. Sleeping beside Phil was always easy; sleep would always claim him before he knew it. He would always feel safe, comfortable and overall; warm. Phil was like his own personal ball of sunshine. 

~

The next morning seemed to fly by in a complete blur. It was filled with goodbyes, “see you soons” and lots of hugs. Dan felt very loved by the entirety of the Lester family, but the hugs still surprised him a bit. What surprised him the most however, was when he was just about to leave them to board the train. 

“Danny! Wait a second.” Phil had called, causing Dan to pause and turn around. 

Phil ran and stopped in front of Dan, slowly tilting the younger’s chin up with shaky finger tips and staring into his eyes. Soon, their lips were touching and Dan fought back tears. They were kissing. Actually kissing. Dan felt a slow warmth fill his body, starting from his lips and trailing down to his tummy. It was as if Phil’s shining light filled him. 

All too soon, Phil pulled back and rested his forehead against Dan’s, his cheeks covered with a blotchy redness, “Text me when you get home, okay?” he whispered to Dan before moving back so Dan could at last board. 

Dan clambered into the train, the tears from earlier finally filling his eyes, but a shy smile still on his face. He could still feel the gentle caress of Phil’s lips on his and the warmth still filled him. The tears ran down his face freely as he hid in his own bubble; the world feeling brand new around him.

~

Dan walked up to his house slowly, sighing as he stared up at it. The front two windows always looked like they were sad, always drooping a bit. The paneling was worn and falling apart in some places. It had always seemed like the house was giving up on him, as Dan had given up on it. He shook his head as a wave of cold wind wrapped around him; a welcome from the sad house in front of him. 

He walked in the door, still feeling the cold. The heating was probably broken again; he could easily see his breath inside the kitchen where he stood. He knew both of his parents were at work right now, and wouldn’t be home until later. He was grateful for that fact as he climbed the stairs, carefully avoiding the broken stair that he had shoved his foot through more than once. He glared at the cobwebs that covered the corners of the hallway where he stood and opened his bedroom door to set his bag down.

The brunette turned from his room and walked to the bathroom to wash his face before taking a nap; but when he tried to turn the water on, nothing happened. The pipes had frozen again. He groaned and turned to leave, accidentally stepping on a soft spot in the flooring and hearing a crack. Dan gasped and quickly moved his foot, glaring at the new hole in the floor. 

He quickly retreated to the safety of his room, already feeling drained from the house around him. It always reminded him just how broken he was, how he was constantly right at the verge of falling apart. He could never protect anyone; never even keep himself together. His mind was constantly filled with cobwebs, reminders of who he could have been; who he should be. He felt empty and broken. 

Dan used to fantasize about his family suddenly becoming wealthy. One day, they wouldn’t have to live without heating ever again. One day, we wouldn’t have to see his parents panicking when they didn’t know how to feed him for the week. One day, they would be the big house on the block. However, with age came clarity and reality replaced his useless dreams. He was never getting out, his parents were never getting out. Like the house that he had always called home; he would never be somebody that people wanted. 

A few hours later, Dan was standing in the kitchen, making a big pot of soup for his mum and dad when they got home. He was still angry, still felt let down by the state of his life, but he could never hold that against his family. They were his everything; the reason that he knew strength, bravery and of course; love. The cold and broken house held a lot of love. 

“Oh Daniel you’re home! I’ve missed you,” his mum smiled, pulling him into a hug, “the heating is broken, but your dad can make a fire.” she trailed off, looking into the lounge to see Dan had already made a fire, “oh dear, thank you so much. You didn’t have to do that, you definitely didn’t need to make dinner. But it smells delicious.” 

Dan smiled in spite of himself and shrugged, “I knew you would be tired, and I felt bad for leaving for a week.” he hummed, stirring the soup.

His mum walked to the lounge, warming herself by the fire, “you don’t need to feel bad dear. I’m glad that you’re able to go see your friend. I would love to meet him one day.” she smiled, rubbing her hands together.

Dan bit his lip and nodded, “I would like that too. You and dad will love him, he’s really smart and creative. He has the stupidest sense of humor though. But it’s a little endearing. His family is really nice too, you and Kath would be best friends.” he ranted, feeling his cheeks heat up at his words. 

“He does sound like a good lad, maybe one day he could come over here.” she suggested, making Dan tense. 

“Yeah, he's just busy with work and such. I’ll ask him about it soon, okay mum?” he offered, draping a thick blanket around his mum’s shoulders while she nodded.

Not too much later, he was sitting on the lounge floor with his parents, watching an old movie on the TV that he wasn’t really paying attention to; instead he was in his mind. He really didn’t want Phil to see his state of living. He didn’t want to be judged by someone he truly cared about. The kids at school would always mock him for where he lived, as if he could help it. They didn’t even know how bad it really was at times; how could he possibly let Phil in?

 ~

Almost two months had passed since Dan had visited Phil, and he missed him terribly. They still talked everyday, but it just wasn’t the same. Dan really wanted to buy a train ticket and go visit the Lesters; but he couldn’t afford it. He was working extra hours at a local grocery store, making more money than ever before, but he was choosing to give it to his parents, so that they could get things around the house taken care of. They had already had the heating fixed, so no more frozen pipes. Things were slowly getting better around the house, and Dan was thankful; but he missed Phil.

Phil was still suggesting that he could come over, but Dan just couldn’t bring himself to agree. He was still too embarrassed to let someone as important as Phil see the decrepit state of his home.  He was crying himself to sleep, missing his best friend. But the wait would be only temporary, and he knew that. He just couldn’t stand the idea of Phil realizing that Dan wasn’t good enough. Daniel Howell wasn’t someone that people would want.

~

It was a cold day when Dan’s father got hurt on the job. He had fallen from a ladder and hit his head; he was in a medically induced coma so that he could heal. Dan was terrified as he sat in the hospital room, talking to his dad quietly while his mum was at work. 

“Please be okay Dad. I don’t know what I would do without you. Or what mum would do without you. We love you, please don’t leave us.” Dan whispered, squeezing his dad’s hand.

Dan’s heart felt heavy and he felt sick. He couldn’t tell if it was worry, or the fact that he hadn’t eaten in well over twenty four hours. He couldn’t bring himself to eat when there was so much going on. His brown eyes filled with tears as he looked down at his dad. Someone he had looked up to his entire life, the strongest man he knew; was now broken like their home. 

Without thinking about it too hard, Dan took out his cellphone and pressed the call button, thankful when Phil picked up on the second ring, “hey Dan, are you alright? How is your dad?” the older asked him, making Dan shake his head.

“Come over,” Dan whispered while more tears filled his eyes and trailed down his cheeks. That was all he had needed to say.

~

Hours later, Phil stood in Dan’s room, watching the brunette pace the room anxiously as he tried to think of what he wanted to say. Dan’s family had gotten good news, his father would make a full recovery, but it would take time and a lot of rest. Time was something that the Howell’s never seemed to have enough of. Not when work brought in money, and lack of money meant lack of food or utilities or anything they would need. 

“I’m sorry Phil. I don’t know why I made you come here. I’m sorry about the cobwebs and the broken stair and everything. I hate that you have to see my house, it’s nothing special. It's falling apart and hell I don't remember when it didn’t look like this. We just don’t have much but-” Dan was interrupted by Phil’s lips on his, and he felt his body slowly relax.

When Phil pulled away, he whispered “Dan, don’t apologize. I have wanted to come over for such a long time. I feel like I can finally know the entirety of who you are. And I love you all the same; cobwebs and broken bits don’t matter. What matters is who you live with.” Phil smiled shyly, cupping Dan’s cheek.

Dan sniffed as tears trailed down his cheeks, “you… you love me?” he asked, staring at Phil in awe. 

Phil hummed and nodded, pulling Dan into a tight hug, “Yes I do. And I want to help you and your family. My parents want to help too; they love you like their own Dan.” he whispered into Dan’s hair.

“I… I love you too Phil. I’m sorry for pushing you away for so long. I was just afraid you would see everything and realize that you didn’t want to waste your time with a fixer upper like me.” Dan explained, hiccuping against Phil’s neck while he cried.

Phil felt his own eyes fill with tears, and he quickly wiped them away, “You’re not a fixer upper, and I want you to be safe and happy. I want to give that to you more than anything. My parents want to come up here to help, we can help Dan. We want you and your family to be happy and safe. Please let us.” he whispered.

Dan paused, his mind struggling to take everything in. Phil loved him. The Lesters wanted to help the Howells. Phil was asking Dan’s permission to help. He was letting Dan make the decision. Without thinking too much harder, Dan nodded, “yes. You guys can help us.” 

~

The next month was filled with a lot of changes. The first big change was a kitchen filled with food; the entire pantry was full for the first time ever. That was the first time Dan had seen his mum cry. The second big change seemed to happen overnight; it was in Dan’s parents. They seemed to be more at ease, smiling bigger and laughing louder. Dan had never seen them hug as much as they had been lately. The third biggest change was of course; the house. The cobwebs were now gone, and a small part of Dan missed them. They were familiar to him, but he knew holding onto that stress wasn’t good for him.

The stairs had been replaced, but Dan still caught himself avoiding the broken step that was no longer there. Most of the floor had been successfully replaced and the walls were in the process of being reinsulated. Phil’s youtube career was really taking off, with Dan right beside him. They were even getting offers from big companies, money seemed to be flowing in like Dan had never seen before.

“Phil, when are you going to get your flat?” Dan asked suddenly over the phone as he walked home from his grocery store shift. Spring was beginning to make the world around him more colorful again, the fresh scent of flowers lingered in the air.

“Actually Dan… I used most of my savings to help with your house. So it’s going to be a little longer than I had planned. But don’t get upset! I’m perfectly okay with waiting a bit longer.” Phil had explained a bit nervously, not sure how Dan would react.

Dan felt his heart sink a bit at that, but a part of him had expected that, “I’m not upset. I just feel a little bad, you were so excited to be on your own, with your own rules. And I was excited to visit you constantly.” He teased Phil happily, looking up at the blue sky above him.

Phil laughed at Dan quietly before stopping and becoming serious, “well, it’s going to be about six months before I actually move out now. But when I do, I don’t want you to visit. I want you… well I want you to live with me.” he whispered sheepishly. 

Dan knew that his mouth was hanging open, and he closed it a couple of times before opening it again, “that sounds amazing Phil. I would love to create a home with you.”

“Did you just make an Amazingphil pun?” Phil laughed, shoulders relaxing at Dan’s reaction. “We can start looking at flats soon! When do you wanna start?” he asked excitedly. 

The brunette hummed as he walked closer to his family home, smiling at the house. It was still a bit broken and worn, but it was lovely and safe; filled with memories of change and love. It was truly a beautiful home. Dan pushed the door open and stepped inside, kicking his shoes off before whispering, “why not now love? Come over.” 

[radical-l0ver]

Please help, they need it urgently!

TIME SENSITIVE!!! IBTISAM & HER CHILDREN (INCLUDING 3 DISABLED PERSONS) ARE IN IMMEDIATE AND SEVERE DANGER!!!

They are under fire by the IOF! They URGENTLY need funds to evacuate quickly!! The IOF also destroyed their tent, and they need about $1000 USD to replace it so that they have some protection from the rain and cold!!!

I cannot stress enough how urgent this is!!! It is the middle of the night where I am. I am sick with a chronic illness flare-up and in the middle of a family emergency, yet I am here RIGHT NOW to ask for your support because THATS HOW URGENT THE SITUATION IS!! This is LITERALLY LIFE OR DEATH!!! If you’ve ever considered donating but weren’t sure your funds would make a real difference, NOW is the time!!! Anything you can give, no matter how small, could help save this family’s lives!!!

COPY AND PASTE THIS LINK: https://gofund.me/ab691b04

DONATE HERE: https://gofund.me/ab691b04

@nabulsi @vague-humanoid @appsa @fairuzfan @gazagfmboost @vetted-gaza-funds @socalgal @irhabiya @bloglikeanegyptian @vakarians-babe @transmutationisms @frigidwife @butchniqabi @butchfeygele @dykesbat @sar-soor @sayruq @sayurinitta @vaporize-employers @gothhabiba @chilewithcarnage

[manchesterau]

honey, let's get married

pairing: Dan Howell/Phil Lester

words: 2.8k words

tags: tooth-rotting fluff, weddings, but not really

summary:

Dan and Phil decide not to have a wedding, but they get married anyway.

[phanfictioncatalogue]

Canon Compliant (2) Masterlist

part one

a merry TITmas (ao3) - phansong

Summary: It’s Christmas Eve at the Lester house. Dan and Phil are sat together on the couch, unaware of anyone else's whereabouts. Dan pulls Phil's forearm into his hands and examines it.

“Looks like the bruises are fading.”

Phil looks down at his arm as well, “Yeah.”

a six to a nine (ao3) - danhoweiis

Summary: phil has some doubts about his new haircut but dan helps to reassure him in his own way

attired to defy (ao3) - buskingalbatross

Summary: One of Dan and Phil's favorite board games is Wingspan. At first blush, like many other board games, it can seem a bit complicated. But, once the basics are learned, it becomes clear that really, all Wingspan needs to be is an excuse to look at pretty art of birds and learn facts about them. You don’t have to strategize to have fun playing the game. On days where you’re in a post-New Year’s haze on top of being sick, it’s a game that can require almost zero mental effort.

Damn if you do, damn if you don’t (ao3) - ChainedKura

Summary: Terrible narratives had taken shape in his virtual space and every step he took to dismiss them was interpreted in the worst possible way. Each small virtual interaction was a great stress on his mind that created anxiety and anguish. In these conditions Dan finds himself when the important dates of June arrive where his entire fanbase expects perhaps a little more than he can give.

Don't start fires, darling (ao3) - natigail

Summary: Phil wanted to expand his and Dan's repertoire of dishes, so they didn't need to live off of stir-fry and delivery. He thought that cooking lessons would be an awesome way to do that and have a fun date activity. The people in the restaurant do not agree but he and Dan find the humour in it.

Forever Ain't Half the Time... (ao3) - QueenKatelynTheAristocrat

Summary: "October would always have a special place in Phil Lester’s heart. And not just because of the seasonal drinks at Starbucks and the general spooky atmosphere.

The main reason was that he would always associate October -- and Fall in general, to be honest -- with Daniel Howell. The changing of the leaves would always remind him of the first (and only) time he’d ever fallen in love."

Also known as: pure nostalgic fluff dedicated to and inspired by Dan and Phil's ten year anniversary, and everything they've meant to each other and to all of us for those ten years.

get to heaven in our own sweet time (ao3) - jonsaremembers

Summary: Dan and Phil choose their costume for Halloween 2024. Yeah, it breaks the internet, but they only have eyes for each other.

Google Phwed (ao3) - theheartnexttophan

Summary: Dan and Phil are filming a game of Google Feud for the gaming channel when they get a rather familiar prompt.

in a box beneath my bed (ao3) - manchestereyes

Summary: A collection of letters from Dan to Phil in 2009, all unsent.

in your jeans, frenzy (ao3) - r1caner

Summary: “What’re you thinking about?” Phil asks.

Dan feels his cheeks go red, hot all the way to his jaw. “Er. Praying,” he says, desperate to avoid telling the truth and telling a lie.

Indoor Cats (ao3) - theheartnexttophan

Summary: Dan and Phil return to the phouse after the American & Australian legs of tour and take a moment to reflect and relax before bed.

it is you (ao3) - manchestereyes

Summary: @danisnotonfire: I wonder how biology can explain the physical pain you feel in your chest when all you want to do is be with someone D:

When Dan gets permission to spend a week with Phil in December, he has a stunning realisation.

Like the First Time (ao3) - VanillaVelvetPoet

Summary: Dan returns from the American leg of the WAD -tour, inviting Phil to have dinner with him and the crew. Phil is hit with some unexpected emotions seeing Dan again after spending time apart. Is it possible to fall in love all over again?

one more shot in Helsinki (ao3) - m_katiep

Summary: The tour has brought them to Helsinki. The night before the show Dan and Phil get to experience the hospitality of locals in the form of free shots. Phil gets tipsy and Dan gets jealous.

Rock, Paper, Scissors! (ao3) - xXspencerXx

Summary: Dan and Phil realise they have to share a bed during the american leg of their TATINOF tour.

some of the most normal pictures (ao3) - natigail

Summary: Phil took many photos of Dan. It was second nature. To capture this life that they shared and this man that he got to share it with. Each moment precious, captured when Dan was his most relaxed and at ease. And they're completely normal. Of course.

*Behind the scenes look at each of the photos from this year's birthday tweet from Phil to Dan*

The Revival Aftermath (ao3) - cafephan

Summary: The gaming channel makes a comeback.

Through Sickness and In Health (ao3) - Mysticallykai

Summary: After Phil's hospital stay and their vacation, Dan and Phil try to fall back into their routine. Though it's hard to go back to normal when your normal has changed so suddenly. How will the significant health scare affect Dan and Phil even weeks after it's over?

when you hold me near, you drown out the crowd (ao3) - jonsaremembers

Summary: Dan can see Phil needs a break.

you look so comfortable in my skin (ao3) - phook

Summary: "somehow these silly scenarios make them fall in love with each other again and again and again and again and again, if that's even possible. the word, love itself, has lost its value. love cannot even compete with what dan and phil have. "

or dan and phil do doctor/patient roleplay while phil is sick

You're All my Reasons (ao3) - QueenKatelynTheAristocrat

Summary: "Phil wished he could think of the right thing to say. It would be nice if at times like this his English Language degree knowledge would kick in and provide him with the words to make Dan understand that he could tell Phil anything, that there was nothing he could say that would scare Phil away, but alas."

In which Dan's depression doesn't allow him to leave his room for two days, and Phil struggles to find the words, but what comes to realize is that maybe words aren't always necessary.

[donnieisonfire]

Dan from Law,

Phil from Media & Editing

is that how it goes? it’s been so long i forgor…

hey poo poos. its been a while, huh…i know, i know, i said i’d publish this the FIRST OF DECEMBER…but ya boy was a bit busy, gimme a breaaaak. anyways…here with a longer chapter to make up for it. enjoy. no smut. just a buncha gay boys and angst. as usual, tags under the cut :3

AO3 LINK

MASTERLIST OF THE CHAPTERS

jump scare, heart eyes howell

Tags :

Basically just fluff, a bit of angst. Mentions of Dan being outted, Dan having a sliiight panic attack?, Phil is allergic asf to cats, ADORABLE CAAATTTSSS, enjoy poo poos xox

Dan and Phil had exchanged numbers after around 30 minutes of talking on Grindr. Dan was just managing to wrap his head around the fact that fucking Phil was some variation of queer. Then, Phil proposed they meet up. For a date. Phil wanted Dan. Whether it was romantic or platonic, Dan was never going to reject that.

It was around midday by now, a little too late to go to a café because of the daylight savings, so they arranged to meet somewhere called ‘La Chat’. It was some French cat café, something that Dan couldn’t afford, but he’d be damned if he didn’t dig into his savings for this “date” with Phil. This might be his only opportunity.

Phil had been texting Dan about how he’d “have to slam back 10 antihistamines" because he’s allergic, but that he didn't mind because he would "rather die than not visit a cat café at all possible opportunities.’’

So, Phil was taking Dan out on yet another coffee date, and he didn't care about the fact that he was going to be sniffling the entire time. And goddamnit, Dan didn’t care either.

The next day, Dan woke up, showered, put on his ugliest knitted sweater as he thought it would beautifully fit the theme (it did) and some fuck ass jeans that most definitely didn’t fit him but were the only pair on his floor that weren’t, like, completely dirty, and then drove towards the cafe.

When he was in the shower earlier that same morning, he had debated not straightening his hair but leaving it, keeping it natural. That’s what his mother always used to say, ‘Girls want you naturally, Daniel’, but he quickly shot down the idea. What did his mother know? Anyway, no girl ever wanted him, naturally or not, so he decided on straightening his hair down. It was all he knew, after all.

His heart was pounding the entire time while he drove, his head a mess and his forehead just a ‘tiny’ bit sweaty, which only helped to slick his hair down to be even more pinstraight, even if it looked a little unnatural.

Maybe, in Dan’s dream world, when Phil and him had been together for a few months, he would let him see his hair. The way it looked just so shockingly different curled, how his fringe looked shorter when he didn’t use his shitty poundland-fake version of a GHD straightener to burn his hair to a crisp. Maybe, if Phil didn’t up and leave after a week or so of Daniel’s messed up self -- his self esteem issues, his bi-weekly existential crises’, his problems with procrastination despite his perfectionist mindset -- maybe he’d let Phil in. Maybe, just maybe, he’d let Phil see him, the imperfection of his hair caused by the years of heat damage.

Possibly.

–

Dan’s shitty ford fiesta slows down to a stop a few feet away from ‘La Chat’. Well, where maps said it was anyway. Dan had never come down this part of London, this was the ‘fancier’ part of London. It wasn’t ever really in Dan’s price range, and it was about a 20 minute diversion from the only route he went out in his car (his commute to work), so he had never seen the street the cafe was down, didn’t even recognise the name of the street, let alone know his own way to the cafe.

Dan was apprehensive to get out of his car, and, momentarily, he felt trapped. Trapped within a 1.1 tonne lump of pissing metal. Trapped within a moving death machine, but it felt safe. Safer than going outside, safer than going into that cafe. Safer than the possibility that Phil would stand him up. Safer than the fact this might’ve all been a lie, that the same thing that happened in Wokingham when he was 17 would repeat, that everyone would find he’s…whatever he is, gay, queer, it didn’t matter. He wanted to keep this a secret, a thing he would keep locked away until the guilt of it all was overpowered by stupid lust, until he didn’t care. But Phil, the mere idea of Phil, made that guilt slowly dissipate.

He took a large breath and refused to let it leave until he stepped out the car. After about 4 seconds, he climbed his awkwardly lanky body out of his shitty fiesta and he exhaled. It would be okay. Phil seemed nice, the idea of Phil and coffee seemed concrete, correct. In his mind, if Phil really wanted to stand him up, then he would pick somewhere shittier, - a bar, possibly - a place Phil wouldn’t regularly go to, not a cafe. Dan didn’t know a lot about Phil, but he knew he liked - loved - coffee.

Dan took a few steps, then he saw one of those foldable chalkboards with a ginger cat drawn in chalk with ‘’Sandwich + Milkshake for £12 every Tuesday, 4-6’’ next to it, written in blue chalk.

And then, without even having to look up and see the ‘Le Chat’ sign above the cafe and its large windows, he knew he was in the correct place. Expensive food, expensive drinks, shitty deals.

He looks up, still at least 5 steps from the door. His heart pounded even harder than it already was, from leaving the safe confines of his car, when he saw Phil in one of the booth’s near the window. He intently watched Phil for a few moments, watching – studying – what he did when he was alone.

Phil stood up inside the cafe, walking towards the male bathrooms. Dan watched him sneeze once, then again, then bump into a tall woman, wearing the ‘La Chat’ uniform, with a sandwich in her arms on a plate. The woman proceeded to drop the plate and Phil was apologising, while he continued to sneeze. A cat jumped atop of his table, poking its paw innocently in his cup, getting cat hair all in his coffee.

The whole scene was chaotic, yet it calmed Dan’s nerves as he stepped closer to the cafe. Chaos was regular for Dan, calmed him, made the world feel a bit more real, less worrying. Phil might be able to possibly size up to how chaotic he was. Possibly. Probably not, but possibly.

Dan watches as Phil stumbles off to the bathroom. He walks into the Cafe, hearing a little dingle above him from a bell attached to the door. No one looks over, relievingly. Except a waitress, the same waitress that Phil had knocked over.

‘’Hello. Do you need a seat?’’ She says. Dan shakes his head, ‘’No, I’m meeting someone. They’re already here. Thanks.’’ Dan internally cringed and slapped himself for saying ‘They’re’ instead of ‘he’s’. He was trying to get over the embarrassment of being gay, or whatever he was, and fixing small bits in how he spoke was a step in that direction; it just wasn’t that easy. At all.

The woman nods and walks into the back of the kitchen, presumably to ring in another sandwich to replace the one Phil had made her drop. Dan walks towards the booth that Phil `had been sitting at. There was a ginger cat on the table, splayed out, belly-up to the ceiling.

“God, I’d love to be a cat for a day.” A familiar voice spoke behind him as he sat down at the booth. He turned his head to his left, and there was Phil. Dan flashes Phil his most ‘I didn’t nearly cry in the car over here’ smile, which ended up being an awkward smile, but it got his whole ‘I’m happy to be here’ idea across, which was what he wanted.

[pixel-players]

chapter 4 !!

something cute bc it’s about to be worse for dan after this

good luck, babe!

a dan and phil au

( lawyer!dan x streamer!phil )

dan meets his new neighbor, and it doesn’t take long before feelings he thought he had buried come bubbling back to the surface.

[lesbiandanhowell]

You and I, We don't wanna be like them

pairing: Dan Howell/Phil Lester

rating: general audience

warnings: no ao3 warnings apply 

tags: (2009 era) fluff

word count: 2.5k

summary: Despite both being exhausted they continued whispered conversations, feeling brave in the safety of the darkness and emboldened by their quiet confessions they fell asleep in each other's arms. Phil blissfully unaware and at ease with Dan that he didn’t even think about needing Mister Rabbit to fall asleep.

OR

Phil tries to appear cool when Dan comes to visit him for the first time, but struggles to fall asleep without his favourite plushie. When he admits to his secret, Dan answers with a confession of his own that inspires Phil’s first christmas gift to Dan.

note: this one is a personal favourite so y'all better not let this flop!

read on ao3

[yazihowell]

Craving Sunshine

Dan Howell/Phil Lester

Words: 2.3k

Tags: Dan and Phil Terrible Influence Tour 2024/2025, Birthday Sex, Top Dan Howell, Bottom Phil Lester, Breeding Kink, Having Fun with Gender, no tour spoilers, Angst and Fluff and Smut, Light Angst

“Can’t fuck a baby into you like this, angel,” Daniela brings her hand back to tap twice at the fist still clenching her hair. “Let go.”

[fagbearentertainment]

Things that did irreversible damage (in a good way) to my gender as a child:

Animation memes. The I am the man meme definitely did something to me bc I was OBSESSED with it, like I would just sit and watch versions of it on loop and imagine animations to it all day. Ya know the more I think about it me being a man should’ve clicked way earlier

Adding onto the above two of my favorite animation meme creators when I was little, Kittydog and Sir Fluff, came out as trans. Doesn’t have to do with me being trans but I think it’s neat :3

Undertale. It was my first exposure to the idea of being trans with Frisk and Mettaton, thanks Toby :D

Jacksepticeye, but specifically how he looked when he quit dying his hair green. Still gender goals tbh I wanna look like him so bad

Dan Howell. My two gender goals are Jacksepticeye and 2015 Dan Howell, I’ll take either one pls. He also made me bisexual, thanks Dan :D

Team Rocket. The most transgender group of people I have ever seen, were also (and still are) my favorite characters from the Pokemon anime

[everything-is-as-it-was]

hey there!! Firstly I relate so much - I resort to fanfic when I get absolutely desperate (and I have certainly reached that point with dnp)

That being said I've been working on a fic that I'm fairly proud of actually, might not be what you're looking for but hey I'll leave it here:

This next one is part of a large collection which I enjoyed most of! Some works may have smut I don't remember:

And anything by possumdnp I absolutely love!! I highly recommend all of their works:

kay guys i have never read phanfic before because it always felt a little embarrassing to me to read fanfiction about real people but i am in so deep... do you guys have recommendations please??? i need something good bc my most recent experience with phanfic was reading the hat fic and the cherry fic in middle school and i was in fact scarred for life. would love some cute angst/fluff fics (no pwp pls lmao, though im not opposed to smut in general). anyway thanks guys!!! thanks for helping out a girl in need!!!!! im drowning over here theyre all i can think about

[cozyfoxy]

Mystical Paths Chapter 6

Summary: The Howells have been the proud owners of a small but famous bookstore since the 1800s. They are known for being the only shop that collects original copies of magic writings. Dan works as the bookkeeper of the shop. As the busiest season approaches, one of the most renowned magic families reaches out to the shop and offers to gift them an original Spellbook of sorts. Little did Dan know that these offers would change his life forever.

Read on AO3

Chapter ONE

Warnings: Horror elements

It was raining. No, it was an absolute downpour outside, the sounds of the wind graining against Dan’s nerves. For the first time since he moved out of his parent’s house, he wished he hadn’t. Storms had always made him anxious, especially as a little kid, but this storm in particular seemed to be clawing at his mind, trying to make him break down. A sudden loud crash of thunder sent the grown man underneath his duvet, only his face poking out. He felt like a child.

He tremored and sucked in a gulp of air, trying to ignore the noise from the outside. Dan had tried watching a show, listening to music, and even reading a book, but nothing could distract his mind from the hellish sounds outside his walls. So, he was trapped, listening to the angry pelting of rain on his roof, the howling wind, and the crashing thunder.

Dan knew he was being ridiculous. He knew that the weather couldn’t hurt him, nor was it trying to, but his anxiety was bad enough without a storm setting it off. The warning from Phil’s note still echoed in his mind. Was there any real danger, or was Phil messing with him? As much as he wanted to tell himself that it was some kind of messed-up prank, he just couldn’t see it being one. He didn’t trust Phil, or any magic wielder really, but deep down he knew that more dangerous, more manipulative forces were out there. 

A sudden flash of lightning illuminated the world outside his window, showing an oddly human-shaped silhouette in his back garden. His brown eyes widened and he quickly shook his head, trying to calm his uneven breathing. It was just a bush or something, it had to be. No one in their right mind would be out in a storm like this one, especially this late at night. Dan looked at the time on his phone with shaky hands, realizing it was just a bit past midnight. This storm had been going on for nearly two hours without stopping. 

Dan went to set his phone back down when it vibrated in his hand, bringing his attention back to it. He read the Ring notification repeatedly, a cold ball of fear forming in his stomach. “There is a person at your front door.”

He took in a shaky breath, pulling up the live video feed of his doorbell before he could talk himself out of it. Outside, on his front porch was a small-statured person, standing with their head down. He could only see that they had shorter, wavy-looking hair, and they seemed to be dry. Confusion overshadowed his unease for a moment as he studied the figure. They looked familiar in a way that Dan couldn’t quite place. 

Dan shook his head at himself again and sighed, deciding to ask the person what they were doing. He was safe in his room, the doors and windows were locked, and maybe the person needed help. Before he could even begin to speak to the person, he noticed that the figure had moved closer to the camera, like they were trying to look through it. Dan swallowed thickly and observed the person silently. It was like they were trying to use the camera as a peephole. Like they were trying to see inside. 

“I know you’re in there Daniel, come on, let me inside. I have missed you my dear.” the figure spoke, making Dan’s heart pound loudly in his ears.

That voice. All at once, Dan realized why the figure had seemed familiar and who that voice belonged to. It was his Nana. The same Nana who had raised him alongside his parents. She had been the first person he came out as gay to, the person who taught him piano, the person who would always sing to him when storms like the one outside would keep him awake. It was also the same Nana who had died just three years ago. 

“Daniel! Stop ignoring your grandmother and let me inside! Come on bear, it’s been much too long! It’s cold out here Daniel! Do you want me to get sick and die again? Do you want that on your conscience?” his Nana yelled from outside. 

Only, he knew that person couldn’t be his Nana. As much as he wanted it to be, he knew that it was some kind of imposter. Phil had warned him to stay inside, and Phil’s journal had warned him about the dead returning. Of course, he hadn’t read the page earlier, but he knew that he needed to now. His hands shook as he picked up the large book, watching the pages turn themselves to the one he desired. 

“The Three Days of Darkness. Day 1, the dead come walking.”

“The creatures that I have seen make me want to vomit. They take on the form of passed loved ones, taking on their voices, mannerisms, and everything to trick people into trusting them. They look almost perfect, but there seems to always be something just a bit wrong. I saw my grandfather, or it looked, sounded, and even acted like my grandfather. However, the sick creature seemed to forget that humans can not turn their heads 360 degrees. I knew it wasn’t my grandfather, even before the creature dropped the facade, as he had been dead since I was only twelve years old. 

When I yelled at the creature to go away, it got angry and ran at me. Its fingers sprouted sharp, blackened claws. Its eyes glowed red and its jaw unhinged like a snake ready to eat. Of course, it wasn’t able to harm me through my family’s protective ward, but it did try. I’m not so sure it could have harmed me anyway.

Though these creatures are nearly masters of disguise and very strong, it seems as though they must be trusted before they can harm anyone. My grandmother believes that they are a type of fae. The fae is very tricky and smart. They feast on human emotion for the most part, but some more malevolent fae fully devour people, magical or not. 

I don’t believe they are a type of fae, but I don’t know what they are, so I just call them mimics. Since my first encounter, I have only seen them two other times. Most recently. I had one trying to appear as Daniel Howell, it was nearly a perfect recreation. Luckily, I knew that they only came around one night of the year, so I was already prepared for the attempted trickery. I believed the mimic for a moment though, perhaps it was wishful thinking. However, the mimic didn’t take into account that Daniel doesn’t know his role in my life yet. 

This was the first mimic that I destroyed, and when I did, all that was left behind was an obsidian stone, carved to be the shape of a heart. My grandmother kept it, hoping to track where it came from and who it might belong to. All I know now is that these mimics were created by some kind of sick, twisted magic that I want nothing to do with. And it is very unpredictable and dangerous.” 

Dan shuddered at the words in the book before turning his attention back to his phone, watching the ‘mimic’ pace angrily on his porch. It was agitated that he wouldn’t reply to it, and now, he didn’t plan on it. Instead, he clicked out of the ring app and went to his contacts, cursing at himself before calling Phil.

“Dan? Are you alright?” Phil asked, answering on the first ring.

Dan took in a shaky breath, chuckling at himself, “I um… no actually. There is a creature outside on my front porch that’s trying to look like my Nana. She died years ago Phil, and it’s getting angry and I’m kinda fucking terrified right now.” 

The other side of the line went completely silent for a moment, making Dan check to see if the call had failed or something. “Um… Phil?” he asked nervously.

Phil growled through his teeth, “I will be right there. Stay in your room, do not make a sound. I’ll keep you safe.” 

“I-.” The line cut off before Dan could even finish his sentence. 

Dan buried himself completely underneath his duvet and pulled the Ring app open on his phone, watching as the mimic got even more agitated. He could see that it was losing control over how it looked. It was going back and forth between tall and short like it was struggling to keep its shape. Its back was becoming more haunched over and occasionally letting out sickening popping sounds when its bones stretched and changed. 

“Daniel if you don’t let me in I will let myself in.” It suddenly shrieked, no longer sounding anything like his Nana. Hell, it didn’t even sound human anymore. The voice was strangled, shrill, and painful to Dan’s ears.

The brunette bit his lip hard enough to draw blood as he fought back the scream of fear that was in his throat. The creature looked at the camera with glowing green eyes before it started to rip at his door. He could hear the sound of ripping, creaking wood even without his phone. It was echoing through his house.

Suddenly, multiple figures appeared in the background of the Ring camera, slipping in and out of view. Though Dan couldn’t completely see their shape, he immediately felt more at ease. The shapes were small, precise, and made more sense in his mind. Before he could think too hard about what was happening, three foxes were standing behind the mimic on his porch. 

He quickly recognized the fox that was standing in the middle as Phil. Phil was here to save him, just like he had promised. Dan smiled nervously and allowed his tense shoulders to relax a bit. It was as if something in the air had changed like he knew he was safe at last. 

“Don’t watch the camera please Dan, this is not going to be pretty and I don’t need you being more afraid than you already are.” Phil’s voice came in through his mind, making him shudder.

He sighed in annoyance, tempted to watch what was happening just to spite Phil. Though, he had a feeling that he didn’t want to see what was about to happen. From what Phil had written in his journal, the foxes outside were about to “destroy” the mimic, and Dan didn’t want to think about what that meant. He quickly closed out of the Ring app and set his phone down beside himself. 

After what felt like hours, he heard soft footsteps heading toward him, sending a nervous shiver up his spine.

“It’s just me Dan. We got rid of it. My family went back home, but I’m going to stay with you for now, if that’s alright.” Phil explained gently.

Dan peeked his head out from underneath his blanket and looked Phil up and down, not trusting what he was seeing, “how do I know you’re not one of those fucking mimic things? You might not even be the real Phil!” he accused quickly, not caring how ridiculous he might sound. 

“I’m the real Phil little dove, now, I’m going to stay with you to make sure you’re safe. It’s up to you if I stay inside with you or go back outside.” Phil’s voice answered in Dan’s mind, helping the brunette relax more.

“I… sorry. I guess I’m in shock or something.” Dan whispered sheepishly, biting on his thumbnail, “You can stay inside. The weather is still gross and yeah…” 

Phil nodded and sat on the floor, looking up at Dan wordlessly and taking notice of the book that was still sitting open beside the brunette. Dan glanced between the book and Phil, suddenly feeling like a child who had been caught taking a cookie before dinner. He felt like he did something wrong, though he had been told to read the journal. It still felt as though he had overstepped. A question suddenly popped into his head, now that his fear had all but disappeared. 

“Phil, I read your entry about the mimics, and it said something about me not knowing my role in your life. What does that mean?” Dan asked, looking directly into Phil’s eyes.

A soft chuckle left Phil’s chest as he stared right back at Dan, “I had a feeling you would ask. Well, I knew you would ask I suppose. You, Daniel, are my muse.” he explained calmly.

Dan raised an eyebrow, “so I inspire you?” he asked, feeling unimpressed. 

Phil fully laughed at his response, shaking his head, “No, I mean yes, you do inspire me. You’re the most beautiful person I have ever seen, the most gorgeous soul I will ever know, but that’s not what a muse is for someone like me.” 

He took a deep breath before suddenly appearing on the bed next to Dan, nervously linking their hands together. At first, Dan was sure that he imagined the electric hum that formed between their fingers, blaming the sudden unexpected warmth. Then he saw the glowing light around their clenched palms. It reminded him of a flickering candle, but larger, more intense. It let off a warmth like he had never felt before. The feeling of the glow was so hot that it should’ve burned him, but it didn’t. All he could feel was comfort, relief even. He felt more whole than he could even imagine.

“That is what it means for you to be my muse. My magic is stronger than anyone in my family, stronger than anyone that we Lesters have met as well. But when I’m with you, our magic combines, and we both become even stronger.” Phil whispered, looking into Dan’s eyes with a blush on his cheeks.

Dan stuttered before shaking his head at Phil. “I’m not a magic user Phil. No Howell has ever had magic before, it’s literally a part of branding with the shop. Magic is hereditary, I can’t have it.” 

“Oh, but you do. It’s very strong as well. Not all magic is hereditary love, some magic is gifted. You’ve had magic since the day that you marked yourself with the knife. The same knife that you saw in your dream. The same knife that left what you call a birthmark on your thigh.” Phil hummed, loosening his grip on Dan’s hand in case he wanted to let go.

Dan surprised himself when he clung onto Phil’s hand, pulling the man closer. “If I actually have magic, how come I’ve never felt it before?” He asked sternly. 

Phil smiled softly, but it didn’t meet his eyes, “You hate magic. You’ve seen how it hurts people, how it can make even the nicest people fall into darkness. I know you lost your best friend to magic. That’s why you don’t trust anyone who has magic. You’ve never tried to use it beffore Dan, that’s why you didn’t know.” he explained, rubbing Dan’s back. 

“Please don’t bring her up… it hurts too much.” Dan whimpered, turning away from the man beside him, “I don’t have magic. I’m not strong enough to have that kind of power, it would destroy me. I would destroy everything around me. I would hurt people that I love. I don’t trust myself enough as it is! Why did you have to come and make my life so confusing? Life used to make sense, and then you brought magic into the mix! I hate you. I wish you never came around!” Dan yelled, tearing his hand away from Phil’s and burying his face into his arms. 

He wasn’t angry at Phil, not really, but his emotions were just overflowing, with nowhere to go. The room was silent for a moment, and Dan wondered if Phil had left him alone. As much as he truly wanted Phil to leave, the thought of him leaving made Dan’s heart ache. Why was this so damn confusing? He wiped the tears in his eyes angrily, ignoring the fact that Phil was chuckling. 

“What the fuck are you laughing at?!” Dan demanded angrily, closing his eyes again.

Phil laughed even louder, holding his sides as he did, “Look down and you’ll see.” he challenged. 

Dan groaned and opened his eyes, turning to glare at Phil but only seeing the wall beside him. He gasped and quickly looked down, realizing that he was floating above his bed. “What the hell? Put me down!” He yelled, waving his hands anxiously in the air. 

“I would love to, but I’m not doing anything. It’s all you love.” Phil explained, humor still leaking into his voice. 

Dan rolled his eyes and took in a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. He thought of all of the times he had gotten so in his head that he had felt like he was floating like he couldn’t ground himself. Was it possible that he had actually been floating those times as well? He took another calming breath, stretched his arms above his head, and closed his eyes. This couldn’t be real. 

“Love, open your eyes,” Phil ordered gently, watching Dan for a reaction. 

Dan huffed and opened his eyes, sleepiness wrapping itself around his brain. He quickly realized that he was once again sitting on his bed, nearly leaning on Phil. He rubbed his lips together nervously while looking into Phil’s eyes, “I really just did that, didn’t I?” He asked though he knew the answer. 

Phil nodded and rubbed small circles on Dan’s back, “Yes, you did. Look, it’s been a weird night. You should sleep, I know you’re exhausted. I will answer the rest of your questions tomorrow, okay?” 

Dan nodded and closed his eyes again, letting himself slide onto his back, his head hitting his pillow softly, “You’re not leaving right? The spare room is just down the hall, you can make yourself at home. Just… please don’t leave me.” He begged pathetically, his voice thick with sleep.

“I wouldn’t dream of leaving you. Never again little dove. Now, sleep. You need it.” Phil whispered, pushing Dan’s fringe away from his forehead and planting a soft kiss on his forehead, smiling when Dan sighed contentedly and dozed off.

[tiny-sassy-aggressive]

Dropping this in the middle of a fic was insane

<a href="https://archiveofourown.org/works/23842384"><strong>i jump for my phone every moment it lights up</strong></a> (5693 words) by <a href="https://archiveofourown.org/users/natigail"><strong>natigail</strong></a><br />Chapters: 1/1<br />Fandom: <a href="https://archiveofourown.org/tags/Phandom*s*The%20Fantastic%20Foursome%20(YouTube%20RPF)">Phandom/The Fantastic Foursome (YouTube RPF)</a><br />Rating: Teen And Up Audiences<br />Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply<br />Relationships: Dan Howell/Phil Lester<br />Characters: Dan Howell, Phil Lester, PJ Liguori<br />Additional Tags: Social Media, Texting, Alternate Universe - Different First Meeting, Coronavirus, Quarantine, Fluff and Humor, Banter, phanworkschallenge, Chatting & Messaging<br />Summary: <p>Dan left YouTube behind to become an actor, but years later when coronavirus hits and forces him into self-imposed quarantine he rediscovers an old passion of his - AmazingPhil. He hadn't counted on becoming internet friends with him, or falling in love for that matter.</p><p>* Nominated for Most Memorable for the Phanfiction Awards 2020 *</p>

@secretlywritingstories I’m sending you my therapy bills

[couragetoexist]

Waste the Days Away (1.6k)

G, M/M, No Archive Warnings Apply, Dan Howell/Phil Lester, Established Relationship, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Tickle Fights, Phone Calls & Telephones, 2010 Era (Phandom)

A gift to @dansevilpianotea as a part of the Summer 2024 @phandomgiftexchange <3 I know these months can be challenging ones, so I hope this piece gives you a bit of hope if things are rough for you, and if not, enjoy some early Dan and Phil fluff regardless!