#Gretel van Andresen (F!OC)

[peonierose]

Unexpected

Chapter 3

Nightbound AU vs. Hänsel & Gretel

Book: Nightbound

Type: Series / Chapter 3

Characters involved: Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC), Gretel van Andresen (F!OC), Grey (M!OC)

Words: 3,000+

Rating: Mature, NSFW

Summary: Hänsel and Gretel are now in New Orleans. Looking for clues. They’ll encounter someone new. Friend or Foe?

A/N: A huge thank you to @annieruok94 for brainstorming and reading through 💚 @jerzwriter Thank you so much with the smut scene (I’m super nervous though 🙈) 💗

2nd A/N: Thank you to anyone who reads my stories and gives my characters a chance. It truly means the 🌎 to me. Also please let me know if you’d like to be tagged for future stories 💚

Playlist for Chapter 3

In case you missed the first two chapters, you can catch up on them here Chapter 1 & Chapter 2

Grey

I wasn’t sure if the purple sleep powder would work on her. I catch her before she can fall to the ground and carry her in my arms. I teleport us to Vi’s shop. Not many Fae can teleport.

Though it seems as if I’m the exception to the rule.

Viandra or Vi for short is my best friend along with Vine. Vi owns her own spice and herb shop called “Blue Moon“.

She found this old apothecary that was ready for demolition, but she saved it and opened up her herb and spice shop instead.

Opening it for all supernaturals who needed help with illnesses and couldn’t go to a normal doctor.

Vi is amazing. She can make all kinds of potions and antidotes. She’s also using the shop as a cover to remain hidden from certain Fae.

She can also make love potions, but Vi always says those aren’t for the faint of heart. Ironic really since the heart region is the aim of the potion.

We met a long time ago at one of the grand balls of the season.

It’s a gathering of Fae royalty from all the Courts. Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Since all three of us hail from different Fae courts, no one could’ve foreseen we’d become such close friends. Yet here we are. Proving everyone wrong.

When I was banished from the winter court, Vi and Vine left with me.

Making all three of us outcasts. I couldn’t be more grateful for having such wonderful friends by my side.

I’m breathing hard as I’m entering Vi’s shop. Using my magic to create a glamour to mask my appearance and then teleporting us into Vi‘s shop? It’s straining to say the least. I can feel myself becoming tired from using so much magic.

Vi stops what she’s doing and stares daggers at me. Her hair glowed like a bright orange sunset. The top half was a bright burning red, her light orange tips falling to the half of her back in cascading waves. Her dark eyes outlined with coal, are glowing like embers in the ashes.

“Who is that? And why have you brought her here?“ She asks, pointing with her chin towards Gretel. Her full lips turned down in a suspicious frown.

“Help me and I’ll explain,“ I say.

Vi walks towards me and together we place Gretel on the plush red chair and tie her hands behind her back.

Gretel moans softly but stays out. I let out a breath of pure relief. The magic must’ve worked better than I thought it would. It was made by Vi after all. She might be a giant pain in the ass, but she knows her way around potions and mixtures.

Vi takes a closer look at Gretel. When she recognizes Gretel she steps back and whirls around to pin me down with a gaze.

“Are you out of your damn mind? Bringing her here? Do you know who that is? She’s going to expose all of us,“ her dark eyes blazing like an inner fire. Considering that’s her power it’s not that far off.

“Relax. She doesn’t know anything,“ I say not worried in the slightest.

Vi laughs but it’s hollow.

“Yet. How long will it take her to realize who we are? Who you are? She’s a freaking Grimm. Making her one of them. She’s not going to just lie low and be told what to do. Neither is her brother. You should know better than that Grey,“ she shakes her head at me.

The Brothers Grimm aren’t just two guys who went around collecting stories to write down. Oh no. They’re far worse than that. They’re supernatural hunters. Collecting stories? That was their way of knowing more about supernaturals. With time they’ve become more and more dangerous. They have a database for almost all supernaturals. Their strengths and weaknesses were collected and passed on to the next generations of Grimm.

I shudder just thinking about it.

The stories of them are all true.

Though there is one Grimm who isn’t cruel and that Grimm's daughter is currently sitting on the chair we tied her to. Hänsel and Gretel are direct descendants of the original brothers Grimm. Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm.

And from the looks of it, neither Hänsel nor Gretel has any idea about their heritage.

I turn my gaze towards Vi again and take a step closer to Vi until we’re face to face and our noses are almost touching.

“Then you should know that I’m not some stupid faeling that doesn’t know how to survive. We both survived far worse in the Fae courts. Or do I need to remind you of that?“ My voice is cold as ice.

She’s not batting an eye. But after a few seconds, she shakes her head in response.

I incline my head.

“Good. Let’s see what she knows. Afterward we’ll make her forget she ever saw us,“ I say.

Vi looks concerned. Which is rare so I’m on high alert.

“She doesn’t strike me as the type of person who’s going to forget for very long,“ she says.

When I give her another look she holds up her hands. Her dark magenta-painted nails caught in the soft, dim light, and sparks emanate from her fingertips.

“Don’t bite my head off. I’m just saying. She‘s a descendant of the Brothers Grimm. They aren’t easily fooled. You know that Grey. Better than anyone,“ her voice got soft.

I close my eyes. Not wanting to think of the people responsible for the death of my whole family. Almost my whole family I amend. One member of my family is still alive, though I try not to dwell too much on that.

When I re-open my eyes I’m in control of my raging emotions again.

Vi grabbed my shoulder to lend me some strength. I cover my hand with hers.

Letting my guard down. Showing feelings and emotions of the softer side is something that’s very rare with Vi. Vi is like the sister I never had. So I cherish these moments even more.

When I look at Gretel all I see is my family screaming for help.

Her family eradicated my own. She’s no different I try to remind myself when I look at her soft face, her rosy cheeks, and her long blonde braid reaching almost the middle of her back.

I’m trying to decide on how to proceed when Vine enters the shop.

His dark blue hair is cascading down his back. Put in some complicated braid.

“Hello, party people…Oh my god. Grey, who did you bring that for?“ He says upon entering.

He stops in his tracks and sees Gretel tied back behind a chair. Vine takes a closer look and steps back when he recognizes her.

“Really? Gretel? I didn’t think you’d be that stupid,“ he leans against the counter.

I turn towards him and put my hands on my hips. What is it with these two tonight?

“Mind your place,“ I say coldly.

He shakes his head at me.

“Dude you know I’m right,“ he says and hops onto the counter.

As Gretel’s moans are getting louder, everyone stops doing what they’re doing. Looks as if the sleeping powder is wearing off quicker than we thought.

She’s fully awake now and on high alert. Her eyes darted left and right.

She seems to want to reach for her right boot where her dagger was, realizing her hands are tied behind her back. She grits her teeth. Her hazel eyes take on a more green hue. Glowing like the eyes of a cat.

“Are you looking for this?“ I ask her.

Too bad I found it earlier when I searched for her. I hold it up into the light. Admiring the craftsmanship.

The small blade has a dark emerald hilt, with the initials KVA inscribed into it. Making my whole body go taut. Though I school my features I wouldn’t want Gretel to know that those initials are well known to me.

The blade itself is made out of a dark, smooth black material. One that seems to absorb any light nearby.

One I’ve never encountered before and that says a lot. I’ve been alive and wandering this earth for over a thousand years now. You could say I’ve been around for a while.

She keeps staring at me as I’m carrying the blade.

“That doesn’t belong to you,“ she clarifies as if it wasn’t evident enough.

I ignore her and ask her in turn.

“Where did you get this?“ I look at her and she sighs in return.

She gulps down and sighs.

“It was my mothers,“ she says while trying to get the rope off of her hands. All it seems to be doing is digging deeper into her flesh.

I put it on the counter. It’s not as if she can fight her way out of here but I don’t want to take any chances.

She takes a look around and when she notices we’re not alone she sits up straighter in her chair.

I know I won’t get anything out of her if Vi and Vine are here too.

Without looking back I say quietly.

“Leave us,“ my voice low.

With their sensitive hearing, they hear well enough, without me having to raise my voice.

Vi and Vine start to protest.

“Now!“ I say louder this time. My tone booking no argument.

Vi knows not to test me and so she walks into the other part of the shop and drags Vine with her.

Before they’re completely out of sight Gretel stares at Vine and mutters “Nice rose and vine tattoos,“ she admires it for a couple of seconds longer as if she’s staring at an oil painting. Vine’s eyes widen a fraction.

I whip my head towards her. How does she see through our carefully constructed glamour? Even Grimms usually don’t notice our tattoos.

Because they‘re only visible to Fae eyes. I take a closer look at her and breathe out slowly.

Maybe Vi was right. It’s going to be hard to make her forget she ever saw us.

Gretel

The rope is burning into my flesh.

I look up and see a beautiful guy. With long dark hair and forest-green eyes. I instantly turn my guard up. Making my voice sound emotionless.

A guy like him? He’s dangerous for various reasons. Especially for my heart. He could make me want and feel things I haven’t in a while.

I try to distract myself by taking a look around to avoid having to look at him. I guess I’m meeting The Shadow earlier than I thought I would. I mean who else could it be?

The place looks bigger on the inside than you’d think, not that I even know where we are. Keeping my breath even, as I’m trying not to break out into a full-on panic.

I clear my throat and see all sorts of herbs and plants adorning the place. Making you feel as if you’re inside a greenhouse. Only smaller.

Strange liquids and items are sitting in jars on the shelves. Making me curious as to what those are, but at the same time not want to know.

“Who are you? And what do you want?“ I ask, not looking at The Shadow.

“So demanding,“ he says, his voice smooth as silk.

I snicker in disgust and look back at him.

”If this is you trying to turn on the charm? Try again.“ I say as if we’re having a nice little chat. Not me being tied to a chair like a hostage.

He smirks even more at the fact that I’m uncomfortable and trying to hide it.

“As to your question. I brought you here for a reason Gretel,“ he replies.

A shiver runs down my spine at the tone of his voice. I shake it off. My blonde ponytail swung back and forth.

“How do you know my name?“ I ask.

He smiles down at me.

“I know a lot of things about you and your brother,“ he says ominously.

“Yeah, that’s not creepy at all. I know that you’re Fae. Your glamour won’t work on me. Find a better victim. Cause I ain’t playing one,“ I say.

He seems a bit taken aback that I discovered so soon what he is and that he’s trying to use Fae glamour on me to coax information out of me.

I hate people who play games with me. Either say what you’ve got to say or don’t say anything at all. That’s what my mom taught me.

“Again who are you?“ I ask him again.

He ponders over that for a second before he bows elegantly and smiles through his eyelashes.

“You can call me Grey,“ he says winking at me.

I roll my eyes at his attitude.

“Alright. We’ll pretend that’s your real name,“ I reply.

Grey nods his head at me.

“Fair enough,“ he says.

I let out a frustrated growl.

“I want you to stop looking into the case you’re investigating. You don’t need to concern yourself with this. It will be taken care of. You have my word,“ he promises.

These are his next words.

I laugh bitterly at his promise. I learned early on not to trust a pretty face. Two words, the witch. That’s all I’m going to say.

“I know next to nothing about this case. That’s why I was seeking you out,“ I say.

“We will handle it,“ he tries to reassure me.

“I don’t trust you or your word. Fae never do anything out of the goodness of their hearts. You want something. As for stopping to look for these people? You’ve got another thing coming hot stuff,“ I say with more confidence than I feel right now. Totally trying to bluff my way out of here.

He laughs and it sounds like the proverbial forbidden fruit. Something you know you shouldn’t want. But are drawn to.

My heart beats faster and he turns his face to me as if he could sense it. With his heightened hearing he probably can.

Grey is crouched down in his leather pants and gives me a look. As if trying to decipher what to make of me.

I can’t show what I feel. Even though I’m scared shitless I don’t want to give him the satisfaction of knowing that.

He grins.

“So you think I’m good-looking?“ he asks.

“I didn’t say that. So wipe that smirk off your face,“ I say.

He smiles and for a second his face seems blurry again. Showing me white silvery hair instead of inky black and crystal clear blue eyes instead of moss green.

I smile to myself and he gets a confused look on his face.

There’s a secret as to how Hänsel and I can unmask all these supernaturals and see behind the mask so to speak. We’ve been able to ever since we were born.

So this is going to be fun.

I lean back in my chair as much as my tied hands let me.

“Interesting that you’re masking your appearance. Are we a little vain?“ I ask mockingly.

His smile disappears and a careful look enters his eyes.

He steps closer and grips my chin to look into my eyes. He moves his fingers to reveal any sort of magic. But he won’t find any. When he realizes that I’m not under a spell and that there’s no magic involved he steps back.

Grey studies me more carefully, the scent of lush green grass wafting toward me.

“You just became more fascinating,“ he mutters almost as if to himself.

“Glad I could be of service. Although you look like a stone sculpture. I’d rather have fun with my vibrator than with you. So if there’s nothing else can you untie me?“ I ask him

Grey’s eyes glitter in delight.

“Your vibrator must be bad if you’re this frustrated,“ he says in a sultry tone.

I laugh in surprise.

He chuckles in turn.

“You know it’s funny. How mortals think they know everything about pleasure and how to achieve it,“ he says.

I raise my eyebrows.

“And you’re the expert?“ I ask, teasing him.

He shrugs.

“I’ve never heard any complaints.“

“People were probably too scared to tell you if they weren’t satisfied,“ I say.

He smiles though his green eyes have gone cold. Oops. Look like I hit a sore spot.

I gulp.

Suddenly the scenery changes and I’m in a different room. Lying in a big canopy bed. Dark silver-grey sheets surrounded me. Grey is lying next to me.

His long silver blond hair falls to the side, surrounding him like a curtain and he has that smirk on his face. He traces a finger across my bare skin before I feel a sticky drip on my skin.

I look in his direction and my eyes opened wide when I saw him dip his hands into a bowl filled with honey. Next, the stickiness is on me as he spreads his honeyed hands onto my stomach and leans down to lick it away. His warm tongue feels like fire as it licks and sucks at my sin. Making me moan.

I push my hand into his hair and pull him towards me to kiss him. He tastes like lilac honey. Sweet and decadent. Making me want more. We break apart only for the image to fade away…

I get back to the here and now. My heart is racing in my chest and my chest is heaving like I just ran 10 miles. I’m left unsatisfied and wanting more.

He walks up behind me and leans down to whisper into my ear.

“What’s got your heart beating so fast, little rosebud?“ He asks, his voice barely above a whisper.

I swallow and try to wipe away those images. As horny as they made me I can’t give in.

“You know there’s a saying in Fae. If you find someone attractive you can project your wants and needs into the person's head,“ he says, his voice sending shock waves down my spine.

“Then stop doing it,“ I demand.

He laughs before he leans even closer to me as if to place a kiss on my neck and I lean closer to him seeking his touch, but then he lifts his head and denies me that contact.

Grey chuckles darkly making gooseflesh cover my whole body. And anger flashes through my body because he made me want more and then he took a step back.

“I wasn’t projecting anything. You were the one who put those images into both of our heads. I find myself wanting to know how it’ll end. How about you?“ He asks curiously.

I gulp and try to escape those pictures. I want to know too, but I feel as if he’s playing a dangerous game with me.

“Stop playing mind games with me. Please. Make it stop,“ I say trying to make him stop projecting.

It takes me back to the gingerbread house when the witch held us, hostage. Mind games were her favorite pastime.

She liked poking into our heads and putting images there.

I hang my head and try to escape anywhere. Just not to be used like that again. He must’ve realized that something is off. He steps closer and this time I can breathe again. Like I woke up from a dream.

A single tear slipped out and our eyes connected. I don’t make any effort to wipe it away. Letting him see my vulnerability and pain for a second.

Grey seems to debate what to do. He breathes out and flicks his fingers. At that, the rope that was binding my hands together slips off landing like a small heap on the wooden floor.

I rub my wrists from the burn of the rope.

My breath goes faster, indicating a panic attack is near. I try to regulate my breathing. When I trust my voice again I say.

“I don’t like mind games. If you want to know something ask me. Just don’t play mind games with me. Please.“

He takes another chair that I haven’t noticed was there before. It almost seemed as if it materialized out of thin air. Maybe he conjured it with magic.

Grey’s eyes take on a softer tone.

“I wasn’t playing any games. If I had to take a guess then I’d say the witch liked to do that.“

I whip my head in his direction and stay still as an ice sculpture. Not moving an inch.

“How do you know so much about us?“ I ask him. Genuinely curious, about how he seems to know almost everything about me and my brother.

He stretches his long legs in front of him. My gaze falls to his leather-clad legs. Leather looks damn good on him.

“I’ve been following you and your brother’s stories for years. It’s always fascinated me how two regular humans can survive all this, without any special powers.“

I laugh at that.

“We’re special snowflakes, didn't you know? It’s not creepy at all how you’ve been following us. Regarding the case. Why don’t we work together? We could solve it faster if we do,“ I say to him.

If we work together, I can keep an eye on him. But I don’t tell him that.

It’s his turn to roll his eyes at me.

“I don’t trust you,“ he says with finality.

I furrow my eyebrows together.

“Are you scared you’d work well within a team?“ I ask him.

Grey laughs but it sounds hollow.

”I work alone.“ He says his tone is colder than an ice wind blasting through the tundra.

I look at him with some understanding. Something in me just wants to help him heal. I don’t know what has hardened his heart so much, but I can’t deny the need to help him.

My brother often said I have a soft heart and that soft heart of mine will get me into trouble one day.

But I can never deny someone who needs my help.

“I know how hard it must be to let go of the past and to let someone new in. But I really think we’d work well together,“ I try to convince him.

Grey eyes me with a steady gaze. Blue gaze meeting hazel eyes.

“We’ll see,“ he says.

I look around for a piece of paper in my jeans project and find a gum wrapper. I also slip my dagger into my right boot where it belongs.

I see a pen on the counter. Quickly I write down my number and put it in his hand.

As soon as our hands touch I feel like an electrical zing jolted through my whole body. As if I put my finger into the power outlet.

We both take our hands back. I can see that it didn’t leave him unbothered.

I clear my throat and rub my hand against my leather coat. To feel the soft leather on my skin. I turn to Grey again.

“In case you’ve made up your mind and want to work together, here's my number. But be quick, because these people are running out of time,“ I say.

“I will need some time to think about it,“ he says and looks down at the purple digits scrawled on the wrapper.

I nod and leave the shop. Finding myself in a small street outside of the French Quarter.

I smile as I leave a speechless, open-mouthed Grey behind.

Feeling kind of satisfied that I could stun The Shadow.

This was not really what I was expecting. But life rarely is.

Always expect the unexpected.

Bonus:

[peonierose]

Luna Auclair

What will your OC and their date be wearing?

She loves to take her time to get ready. And to wear anything she feels comfortable in (since it’s hard to find comfy and stylish maternity clothes - but usually she just improvises 🥰)

Does she have any rituals or other things she must do or wear?

Luna likes to listen to music while getting ready. Here are some of her songs she listens and sings along to.

She loves to wear the silver and gold necklaces she got as a Christmas present from Ethan and Hayley with the twins names Kehlani Mae and Alaia Rose engraved on it.

As well as her engagement ring she got from Bryce on Valentines Day.

How will they get there?

Either by using one of their Jeeps or walking (if it’s close by).

Bryce Lahela

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Bryce likes casual wear. Such as jeans and a shirt. But he can dress up fancy when the occasion calls for it.

Does he have any rituals or other things he must do or wear?

While getting ready he checks off his list of things to do. He never forgets to put on his ”special lotion“.

When Luna once asked him why? Bryce’s reply was ”Getting pretty takes time.“ Luna just laughed and went on to get dressed.

He loves to wear the silver and gold necklaces he got as a Christmas present from Ethan and Hayley with a the twins names Kehlani Mae and Alaia Rose engraved on it.

Keiki Lahela

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Something casual or a tight dress. With lots of earrings, rings and necklaces.

Does she have any rituals or other things she must do or wear?

Keiki loves to spend time at the beach: sunbathing, diving, surfing. Anything that gets her into the water.

She loves to put on some lip gloss in the shade Coral Crush (it’s her favorite - since orange is her favorite color 🧡)

How will they get there?

By car. Keiki doesn’t really like to walk, but she’ll do it if someone asks and if it’s not too far.

Koa Haulani

What will your OC and their date be wearing?

Jeans and a shirt. Or even a suit and tie.

How will they get there?

By using their cars or walking -if it’s within walking distance - and if Koa can convince Keiki to walk there (she’s not fan of walking.)

Maxine Moore

What will your OC and their date be wearing?

Maxine likes anything with leather and a side slit and some high heels. But some jeans a t-shirt and her favorite pair of Dr. Martens is her go to outfit (sometimes she borrows a pair of Dr. Martens from Luna, since they have the same size.)

She loves to wear a couple of necklaces paired with her favorite earrings.

Her favorite perfume tasting like sea salt and her perfume L'Essence from Balenciaga it has notes of vanilla, amber and musk it’s very woodsy. So exactly what Maxi likes.

Adam Sinclair

What will your OC and their date be wearing?

Adam likes to wear something comfortable when he and Maxi go out. Nothing too fancy. Though he does wear a suit & tie when the occasion calls for it (and he knows for a fact that Maxi loves to watch him get dressed 😅)

Does he have any rituals or other things he must do or wear?

Adam loves to take his dog Knox for a walk to the beach before he goes anywhere.

He also wears a his mothers necklace to always keep her close. He started wearing it after his mom passed from cancer.

How will they get there?

They either use Maxi‘s Jeep or Adams motorcycle or Adam’s car he calls Baby (yes he calls his car Baby just like Dean Winchester calls his ’67 Chevy Impala, baby)

Hayley Valentine-Ramsey

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Hayley loves to dress to the nines. Like this gold dress (see above). It’s her favorite it was a gift by Ethan. Given to her for their first anniversary. It’s still her favorite.

She usually pairs her dresses with high heels.

Does she have any rituals or other things she must do or wear?

Hayley loves to wear red lipstick. And very little jewelry, except for her engagement and wedding ring.

She loves to get pampered. Face masks (as you can see Jenner loves face masks too 😂). She, her sister Bella, her best friend Sienna and Jackie love to get ready together. Make-up, hair everything. Manicures and pedicures.

Ethan Ramsey

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Ethan loves a fitted and classic suit. He finds that a tie isn’t always necessary.

Does he have any rituals or other things he must do or wear?

Ethan usually shaves before he and his wife go out. Hayley tells him not to. He does it just to annoy Hayley.

How will they get there?

They’d use Ethan’s car. Since Hayley doesn’t really like to drive through Boston.

Hayley always says ”These people who shouldn’t be allowed to drive will only annoy me and drive my blood pressure up the wall. No thanks I don’t want to spend time in the ER in my gorgeous dress while waiting on test results.“

Addison Dalton

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Addison loves looking glam and sexy. But she also loves jeans and t-shirt looks.

Will they need a babysitter?

Addison will make sure that both she and Sam are going out, they’ll organize a baby sitter. They’d use Jordan (Sam has mixed feelings about Jordan - but he’s good with Mason and Mickey so he looks past it.)

How will they get there?

They’ll use either Robin or Addis car to get anywhere.

Robin Flores

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Robin loves his suits. You’ll rarely catch him without wearing a suit. Though maybe Addison can convince him to wear jeans and a t-shirt 😉

How will they get there?

He’ll definitely going to use his own car. Or let Addi drive his ”car“ (though he doesn’t like others driving his baby 🤣)

Gretel van Andresen

What will your OC and their date be wearing?

Gretel loves anything with leather (not just because Grey secretly likes seeing her in leather. But because she feels good while wearing leather.)

Heels are her favorite to wear. Red or black heels are her favorite.

Does she have any rituals or other things she must do or wear?

Gretel loves to take a relaxing bath, preferably with lavender salt.

She also loves to use her favorite perfume smelling like cherries. She puts it on after she’s done with her make-up and put on her clothes and shoes.

How will they get there?

Preferably by any transportation possible, except teleportation. Which Gretel hates. Even though Grey uses it to annoy her.

Grey

What will your OC and their date be wearing?

Anything tailored to his body. Anything with leather that also allows a lot of movement and places where he can stash his weapons. His powers alone won’t always help him out.

Does he have any rituals or other things he must do or wear?

Before he goes anywhere he likes to eat something with vegetables, since Grey is a vegetarian and a nice cup of hot, brewed green tea. He doesn’t drink any caffeine.

How will they get there?

By car or Teleportation (he loves to annoy Gretel by teleporting since he knows she doesn’t like it to much.)

Sam Dalton

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

A suit and tie (Emma helps him choose which one looks the best on Sam.)

How will they get there?

Sam usually calls Carter to pick them up.

Will they need a babysitter?

Yes they do organize a sitter. Sam complains about Jordan but Jordan is good with Mickey and Mason so he endures it for the twins sake.

If Jordan is unavailable, he coordinates it with Addi.

They have shared custody of the twins. So they always see who’s available to look after the twins if both Sam and Addi are out for the night.

Emma Anderson

What will your MC and their date be wearing?

Emma loves it when she and Sam March color wise and outfit wise. So she usually picks the dress and tries to find something suitable in Sam’s walk in closet.

Elegant and unique dresses are her vibe. Her best friend Jenny has often times been her savior when it comes to picking the right outfit.

Does she have any rituals or other things she must do or wear?

She loves to wear her engagement ring and her wedding band.

Emma loves jewelry but not too much. Just enough.

How will they get there?

They usually let Carter pick them up. But there have been occasions when either she or Sam drove one of their cars.

Will they need a babysitter?

Yes. As much as Mason and Mickey might complain that they’re old enough to stay alone at home, Emma and Sam still think it’s better if someone looks after them. Otherwise they’d destroy the house with their experiments 🤣 Not that Emma didn’t have a hand in one of two of the boys experiments 🤣 But she and Sam wouldn’t have the boys any other way. Experiments and all.

MC Mixer - Week 2

Before you go to a party, you've got to get ready, right? Well that's what week 2 is all about!

Don't worry, even if you didn't get a chance to RSVP, you're still welcome to participate!

What will your MC / OC and their date(s) be wearing? This one is pretty self-explanatory

Do they have any rituals or other things they must do or wear? Will they be getting a haircut? Fresh shave? Anything special they do to get ready for a party.

Will they need a babysitter? Do they have any kids? If so, who does your character turn to when they need a grown up night?

How will they get there? What's your MC / OC's preferred method of transportation?

Responses will be accepted through 11:59PM (PST) on Friday 6/16.

You can participate by reblogging this post, or creating your own with your responses. Your submission can be in the form of test, inspo pics, moodboards, whatever you choose!

If you have any questions or issues, feel free to reach out to us. Our asks and inbox are open, we'd love to chat!

@aallotarenunelma @ao719 @aussiegurl1234 @cadybear420 @charlotteg234 @deb-1106 @emkay512 @karahalloway @mariemarieohcontrary @myautumnrose @noesapphic @ofmischiefandmedicine @peonierose @queenrileyrose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam

@choicesficwriterscreations @choicesmonthlychallenge @choicesflashfics @moodmusicmonday @choicesprompts @choicesholidays

[moodmusicmonday]

What a fun playlist we have this week! Crank it up in the car or while your cleaning and/or cooking--you're going to enjoy it! And also, keep your eyes peeled for these upcoming fics!

Can't wait? Well, you're in luck... check out the list below, and you will see that some have already been released! Find the 📖, then click the link! Don't forget to comment, like and reblog! These writers will surely appreciate it!

Huge thanks to all of our creators who participated in this week's MMM! We do this twice a month (on the first and third Mondays), and all Choices creators are invited to participate! We will see you in May!

@alj4890

📖 “Holding On” - Leony; Holding On [OH; Ethan x f!MC (Chris)]

@ao719

“Infinitely Falling” - Fly By Midnight; Vancross, Chapter 14: Real As A Dream (multiple crossover; Liam x f!OC)

“It Is What It Is” - Lifehouse; Best Kept Secrets, Chapter 13: Maybe There’s No Making It Now (TRR; Liam x f!OC)

“Who Knew - Acoustic” - James Bradshaw; … Sometimes Not, Part 1: Until We Meet Again (TRR; Liam x f!OC) 

@aussiegurl1234

📖 “Chasing Cars” - Simply Three; Black Silk, Chapter 3:  Shopping [TRR AU; Liam x f!OC (Alice), Drake x f!OC (Delilah)]

“You Ought To Know” - duomo, Tomas Piere-Serrate; Black Silk, Chapter 4: The Debutante Ball;  [TRR AU; Liam x f!OC (Alice), Drake x f!OC (Delilah)]

@lizzybeth1986

“Father to Son” - Queen; Legacies, The Statuses [TRR, Book 3; King Liam & Duke Hakim Theron (platonic)]

@peonierose

"Dream On" - Aerosmith; Nightbound vs. Hänsel & Gretel, Chapter 4 [Nightbound AU; Characters involved: Gretel van Andresen (f!OC), Hänsel van Andresen (m!OC), Grey (m!OC), Viandra (f!OC) and Vine (m!OC)]

@txemrn

“Goodbye My Lover” - James Blunt; Like Ships in the Night, Part 1: I’m So Hollow; Part 2: Goodbye My Lover (OPH; Ethan Ramsey x f!OC; Tobias Carrick x f!OC)

~🎵~

Tags are in the comments; please let us know if you'd like to be added or removed. Thanks for supporting MMM!

[peonierose]

Hi everyone 🥰

So I’m posting this a little late buuuut…August 20th marked my 2 year tumblrversary so I wanted to take the chance and thank everyone who’s ever had some nice and encouraging words to say. Who’s been supportive and just an amazing friend 🩷

I am incredibly grateful and humbled by your guys warmth and generosity. To send so much love and support my way. Thank you so so much guys. It honestly means the world to me 🩷🩷🩷🩷

So I thought I’d link some lists and if you want to send in some asks about me or my many OC‘s and MC‘s feel free to. My asks are also open so if you want to you can send in some asks for my pairings which are:

Open Heart

Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

Maxine Moore (F!OC) x Adam Sinclair (M!OC)

Keiki Lahela (F!MC) x Koa Haulani (M!OC)

TNA

Robin Flores (M!MC) x Addison Dalton (F!MC)

Nightbound

Gretel van Andresen (F!OC) x Grey (M!OC)

So feel free to let me know any questions about me or my characters or if you want to see a story or an edit, you can choose down below ⬇️

Again thank you guys for two wonderful years I’ve been able to call so many people my friends. And to make such wonderful friendships 🩷🩷🩷🩷

xoxo PR 🩷

Journal Prompts - by @prettypr1ncezz

OC asks - by @alannah-corvaine

Romance tropes - @urfriendlywriter Grumpy x sunshine prompts

First Date prompts - by @droptheprompt

Domestic OTP with children prompts - by @youneedsomeprompts

Everyone I’ve interacted with so far 🩷 (I also wanted to tag more people but I could only tag 50 people 🙈)

@annieruok94 @potionsprefect @petiteboheme @heavenssexiestangel @kristinamae093 @aallotarenunelma @ezekielbhandarivalleros @persephone13 @amortentiaopenheart @likealotus @surrrenderronniebabe1 @eleanorbloom @songsaboutgirls @noesapphic @lawrencebarkley @takemyopenheart @inlocusmads @txemrn @kyra75 @harleybeaumont @mydemonsdrivealimo @socalwriterbee @cariantha @starrystarrytrouble @tveitertotwrites @the-pale-goddess @mysticalgalaxysstuff @trappedinfanfiction @tessa-liam @jerzwriter @a-cloud-for-dreams @liaromancewriter @angelasscribbles @headoverheelsforramsey @lilyoffandoms @quixoticdreamer16 @jamespotterthefirst @missameliep @kingliam2019 @alj4890 @bebepac @sincerelyella @karahalloway @princess-geek @secretaryunpaid

[peonierose]

Top 10 works

For @choicesfandomappreciation Top 10 I’ve wanted to list my favorite Top 10 stories. I can’t believe I can even say I have written 10 stories and more to begin with 🥰 Who knew these stories and characters would become so important to me? But I’m glad I took the plunge, sat down and wrote some stories. I hope they can make people smile and make their better at least for a little while.

Thank you to anyone in this family fandom - as I like to call it - who is kind and supportive and gave me and my characters and stories a chance 🩷

1. Wildflower - Keiki Lahela (F!MC) x Koa Haulani (M!OC)

2. Go Blonder - Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

3. I‘m a Sucker for You - Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

4. Cinnamon Sugar - Maxine Moore (F!OC) x Adam Sinclair (M!OC)

5. Both are good - Bryce Lahela (M!MC) x Raleigh Carrera (M!MC) with @aallotarenunelma 🩷

6. ”How were we ever strangers…“ - Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

7. Cake by the Ocean - Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

8. Wake Up Little Susie - Chapter 1 - Gretel van Andresen (F!OC) and Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC)

9. Paint Wars - Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela (M!MC)

10. Girls Night Out - Chapter 1 - What’s the secret password? - Characters involved: Jenny, Emma Anderson (F!MC), Addison Dalton, Sofia Russo, Sam Dalton, Robin Flores and Carter

[peonierose]

Luna Auclair (F!OC) - Open Heart

- Food

- The beach

- Art - painting, sculpting anything that lets Luna be creative 💚

- Bryce (her fiancé)

- The Mandalorian (Luna loves Grogu and Pedro Pascal 😻😱)

Bryce Lahela (M!MC) - Open Heart

- Surfing, Hiking, rock climbing (anything that has to do with being out in nature)

- Lunas cooking & art 😻

- Luna 💚 She’s his better half 💚

- Spending time with friends & family

Maxine Moore (F!OC) - Open Heart

- Listening to old vinyl records (especially by Linda Ronstadt ❤️‍🔥)

- Dolphins (one of her favorite animals)

- Watching ballets / opera plays

Gretel van Andresen (F!OC) - Nightbound

- Whiskey 🥃

- Spending time with the people she loves (especially if she can go hunting with her brother Hänsel)

- Lilac honey 💜

- Showing people women can be a badass and can still have a soft heart 💙

Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC) - Nightbound

- Long drives in his ’67 Chevy impala

- Pie (especially apple & blueberry)

- Swimming (especially in the lake at the Black Forest, where he and his sister Gretel have a home)

Viandra (Vi for short) - (F!OC) - Fae - from Nightbound

- making potions and antidotes to help other Supernaturals

- rain during any time

- reels & jigs around the fire

- Fae wine

I am super curious 👀

@txemrn @cariantha @aallotarenunelma @inlocusmads @noesapphic @harleybeaumont @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle @karahalloway @angelasscribbles

Top Three Thursday - Week 2

Welcome to Top Three Thursday! 💙

FIRST, a few quick rules!

Please reblog your answer - don't create a new post. The point is to keep us all together in one place and to get to know each other.

You can answer any way you like - basic answer, headcanons, fics, moodboards, edits, artwork - be as creative (or not!) as you like.

Pixelberry Choices-related content only.

PLEASE BE KIND! People will have different options, thoughts, headcanons, and likes - and that’s a good thing. Be respectful of one another.

For Week 2 - let's get to know our MCs. If you have more than one, you can answer for one or all of them - whatever you wish!

Top 3 Things that make your MC happy

Please specify your MC's name and the Choices story they're from.

If you’d like to be added to the tag list, let me know, but anyone can participate! Tags below break. 💙💙💙

@aces-and-angels @alj4890 @angelasscribbles @bebepac @cariantha @coffeeheartaddict2 @cooltuna69 @crazy-loca-blog @headoverheelsforramsey @hopelessromantic1352 @icecoffee90 @karahalloway @korgbelmont @kyra75 @lovealexhunt @missameliep @peonyblossom @peonierose @potionsprefect @princess-geek @queenrileyrose @quixoticdreamer16 @secretaryunpaid @takeharryandgo @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @tveitertotwrites @twinkleallnight @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks

[peonierose]

🌸 I saw @jerzwriter come up with this cool idea, so I’m borrowing your idea Els 🥰

I'd like to try and write short stories. Sometimes writing short stories helps me get unstuck on a bigger project and it helps me cope with others things I’m going through. So, if you wouldn't mind, I'd love some word prompts for any of the following pairings (list is below the cut):

Open Heart

(Romantic)

🩷 Luna Auclair (F!OC) x Bryce Lahela

🩷 Maxine Moore (F!OC) x Adam Sinclair (M!OC)

🩷 Keiki Lahela (F!MC) x Koa Haulani (M!OC)

🩷 Hayley Valentine-Ramsey (F!MC) x Ethan Ramsey (M!MC)

(Friendship / Platonic)

🩷 Luna and friends

🩷 Bryce and friends

🩷 Maxine and friends

🩷 Keiki and friends

Crimes of Passion

(Romantic)

❤️ Rose De Luca (F!MC) x Trystan Thorne (M!MC)

(Friendship / Platonic)

❤️ Rose and friends

❤️ Trystan and friends

The Nanny Affair

(Romantic)

🩷 Emma Dalton (F!MC) x Sam Dalton (M!MC)

🩷 Addison Dalton (F!MC) x Robin Flores (M!MC)

(Friendship / Platonic )

💜 Emma and friends

💜 Sam and friends

💜 Addison and friends

💜 Robin and friends

Nightbound

(Romantic)

🩵 Grey (M!OC) x Gretel van Andresen (F!OC)

(Friendship / Platonic)

🩵 Grey & friends

🩵 Gretel, Hänsel and friends

Immortal Desires

(Romantic)

❤️ Naya Reese (F!MC) x Gabriel Adalhard (M!MC)

(Friendship / Platonic)

❤️ Naya Reese and friends

❤️ Gabriel Adalhard and friends

❤️ Cas Harlow and friends

Here‘s how it works:

🌸 Send me an ask (not a DM or comment) - it can be anon

🌸 Name 2 characters, pick from romantic or friendship/platonic ones I mentioned

🌸 Give me a 2 word prompt

For example: Luna x Bryce; sunshine and ice cream

Thank you so much 🩷

[peonierose]

Choices MC Madness

Week 4 - Party Games

This is my 2nd entry for @choicesmcmadness

Gretel van Andresen (F!OC - NB)

Nightbound only:

@ladylamrian

Perma tags:

@annieruok94

@potionsprefect

@secretaryunpaid

@socalwriterbee

@cariantha

@a-cloud-for-dreams

@mysticalgalaxysstuff

@karahalloway

@quixoticdreamer16

@princess-geek

@doriopenheart

@aallotarenunelma

@inlocusmads

@openheartforeverinmyheart

@txemrn

@issabees

@annfg8

@jerzwriter

@jamespotterthefirst

@genevievemd

@amortentiaopenheart

@surrrenderronniebabe1

@alj4890

@the-mrsreigns

@kristinamae093

[peonierose]

Who r ur face claims for grey, gretel, hansel and nik? Plz share photos if possible

Hi love 😍

Thank you so so much for your ask you have no idea how happy you made me 💖

Also here is Chapter 3 of my Nightbound fic. Hope you’ll like it 🥰

Okay here are my fc for my Nightbound characters:

For my lovely Gretel van Andresen I have Claire Holt as a face claim.

I even made these (but I couldn’t find the post 😅)

Gretel van Andresen (F!OC)

Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC)

My fc for Hänsel van Andresen is Jensen Ackles

Grey (M!OC)

I don’t really have a fc for Grey yet, but this is how I imagine him without his glamor.

Nik Ryder (M!MC)

I don’t have a specific fc for Nik yet. But I’m looking for one 🥰

[peonierose]

Wake up Little Susie

Chapter 1

Nightbound AU vs. Hänsel & Gretel

Book: Nightbound AU

Type: Series

Characters involved: Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC), Gretel van Andresen (F!OC), Nik Ryder (M!MC), Katherine (F!MC), Garrus (M!MC)

Words: 2,500+

Rating: General, a few curse words

Summary: Hänsel and Gretel two amazing supernatural hunters are working on a new case that leads them to New Orleans and to old friends. So let the good times roll.

A/N: I’m posting this for @nbappreciationweek

Side note: This story has been a year in the making and I hope you’ll give it a chance. A massive thank you to these wonderful people for being super excited for this story and helping me with it. @annieruok94 ❤️@ofmischiefandmedicine 💖 @doriopenheart 🧡 @ladylamrian 💜 @inlocusmads 💚

2nd Side note: I’ve put out an intro you can catch up here. If you want to listen to the playlist I’ve created for this chapter you can do that here.

———————————————————

I stride into Hänsel’s room not caring if he is awake or not. This can’t wait any longer.

The room is pitch black. You can’t even make out the sleeping figure, who slumbers peacefully, tangled in his sheets, and snores softly.

I take a moment to look at him. He looks so peaceful, like he has no care in the world. Well it’s about to get interesting.

I touch his shoulder gently, and start to shake him awake. He stirs and throws out every curse word he knows.

“What in three hells, Gretel?“ His voice is still rough from sleep. He puts his pillow over his head, to avoid the light that spills through the room from outside the hall.

“Wake up sleeping beauty,“ I smile sweetly, because I know he hates it when I wake him up.

He groans and sits up in bed. Thank god the sheets cover the important bits, while the pillow gets pushed to the side.

“I wasn’t sleeping a hundred years. And where’s the fire? Why do I have to be awake?“ He asks sleepily. He still sounds groggy.

I shake my head at him.

“There’s no fire, Mr. grouchy pants. But we do have a case. Get dressed,“ I tell him, while I pull the curtains apart to let in some sunshine. He blinks against the harsh light and covers his face with his arm.

“Seriously? What case? We just came back from a hunt, Gretel. And don’t call me grouchy pants.“

I turn my head in his direction and smile. He crosses his arms over his chest.

“No rest for the wicked.“ I chirp.

He rolls his eyes.

“It’s creepy for you to be so chipper in the morning. Again. What case?“

He holds my gaze for a few seconds longer while he looks for any type of reaction. His dark blond hair disshelved and his hazel eyes sleepy but alert.

Not willing to disclose any details yet,

I walk to his closet and pick a pair of dark jeans and a flannel shirt and throw it at him. The clothes hit him in the face.

“I told you to get dressed. We’re wasting sunlight.“

I leave his room and hear him curse. I grin. My job here is done.

__________________________________

Hänsel walks into the kitchen. His jaw set, his shoulders pulled back. He gets himself some coffee and leans on the kitchen island and crosses his ankles. He appears relaxed and comfortable, but I know he’s anything but.

He takes a slow sip and looks at me directly. His face unreadable. Even though we’re twins (though I’m the older one), even I can’t decipher what’s going through his head right now.

“You woke me up. We all know how much I love that,“ he says sarcastically.

“Without even telling me what the hell is going on!“

I firmly bite my bottom lip.

“You won’t like it.“ I admit.

Hänsel only raises an eyebrow.

“Go on, sis.“

He empathizes that by pointing to his black coffee mug with the words “Hell raiser“ in my direction.

I walk to my room and hand him several pages I printed out. Dozens of faces stare back at me.

Disappearances of at least 20 people. From all sorts of backgrounds and of all ethnicities. Caucasian, African-American, Asian. You name it.

Women and men. Tall and short. Long and short hair. There seems to be no connection between them.

Hänsel sets down his coffee mug, to take a closer look at the missing file reports. He sets the papers down and gives me a pointed look.

“You’re right I don’t like it. This is turning into a weird obsession Gretel. You’ve got to stop this. I mean it.“

He takes his mug and is about to walk away.

“Weird obsession?“ My voice is steely.

He stops mid-walk and turns around.

“I’m saying this as your twin brother who loves you. Those people“ he points at the papers in my hands.

“It’s the local polices job to find them and bring them back safe and sound. Not ours. We only deal with the supernatural stuff. You know? What goes bump in the night,“ he finishes.

I gulp.

“So you’re saying you won’t come with me?“ I ask defiantly.

“And where is that exactly?“ He asks calmly.

I wet my lips and look away not able to meet his eyes.

“New Orleans,“ I say and he nods.

“Now we’re getting closer. This is why you want to investigate? So you can see your former flame again?“ He wiggles his eyebrows.

I narrow my eyes.

“Oh Nik you’re so dreamy. We should like hunt monsters together…blah…blah…“ he says in high-pitched voice to mimic me.

I take a pillow from the couch and throw it at him. It hits him in the chest and he doubles over from laughing.

“I don’t talk like that!“ I cross my arms over my chest.

“Nik and I are just friends. We always have been,“ I say.

“He’s not even my type,“ I add and Hänsel shudders.

“I don’t even want to know what your type is. There are certain things a brother does not need to know about his sister,“ he cringes.

I sigh.

“That’s not the reason I want to go to New Orleans. I want to find out what happened to these people. Or do you mean to tell me you don’t care what happens to their fate?“ I say sternly.

He stops laughing and turns serious. His hazel eyes glinting.

“Of course I care. But there’s no indication that there is a supernatural element involved,“ he states.

“When you looked at the faces did you take a closer look? There’s no connection. They’re being picked at random. But there’s got to be something that connects all of them. I say we fly down to New Orleans and find out what that is,“ I say.

That gets his attention. His eyes turn cold and he presses his lips into a firm line.

“Could be human trafficking. Or sex trade. They’re all kinds of sickos out there. Supernaturals aren’t that different from humans,“ he shrugs.

“You’re turning away from the truth Hänsel. These people are being picked up and no one bats an eye,“ I implore.

He sighs deeply.

“If you’re implying that this is the work of the witch, then I have to disappoint you. She’s dead Gretel. We made damn sure of that.“

Clearly, he‘s not willing to even entertain the idea.

“Did we though? We were kids back then,“ I say and tug nervously at my long blonde braid.

“Even though we were kids I’m pretty sure if you separate every part of a persons body, shove it into an oven and it burns? Yeah. That’s as dead as can be,“ he says matter-of-fact.

I shake my head I’ve heard enough.

“Fine. Then stay here sleep, drink and do nothing. While people are taken from their beds, or picked off the streets. I mean who cares right?“

I point a finger at myself.

“I’ll go investigate. Because I don’t want them to go through the same hell that we did. You might’ve moved on, and you’re trying to forget…“ My voice almost hitches on the last words. “I can’t.“

His voice breaks the silence.

“It’s funny, really. That you think I’ve moved on. Or that I can forget what that witch almost did to us. She lures kids to her knowing exactly which buttons to push,“ he stops and then continues.

“Did you know I still have nightmares every night?“ He confesses. I look up at him, surprise clearly written all over my face, my lips slightly parted.

“No. Why did you never say anything, Hänsel?“

My voice is barely above a whisper.

“Honestly? I don’t know. I always felt like it’s a weakness. Admitting that you have nightmares. All the things we’ve seen, hunted and killed. It’s ironic, really. The one thing that has me woken up sweaty almost every single night is that damn gingerbread house. It wasn’t bad enough I developed diabetes. No. Seeing her turn from someone nice into someone evil in a heartbeat? Yeah, I’ll never forget that face. I’m glad we escaped that hellhole. But the memories still linger on.“

He rubs his eyes tiredly.

I close the distance and envelop him in a hug. It’s like a weight has been lifted. His shoulders sag and he almost crushes me when he returns the hug. We stand in our little kitchen, hugging each other like our lives depend on it.

Each other is all we have left.

What else have I not seen? Hänsel still has nightmares. I did not see his pain. I bury my face in his flannel shirt. Not able to stop some tears that escape my eyes. Soaking into his shirt. I wipe them away with the pad of my thumb.

After a couple of minutes we break apart.

“Want to tell me what Ryder said?“ Hänsel asks.

“We didn’t talk that much. I only wanted to let him know about the disappearances. He was genuinely surprised. I could tell by his voice that I caught him off-guard. He promised to get some info and let me know.“

I gnaw on my lips thoughtfully.

“How is that possible?“ He sounds suspicious.

“Well, he said people disappear all the time. Since these are people from the streets or homeless shelters we’re talking about…“ I shrug and continue.

“The police doesn’t think it’s worth the while to investigate. According to Nik they’ll look into it, but he’s not very hopeful that they’ll do a thorough enough job.“

He ponders over that for a minute.

“So what? You think the witch somehow made it out alive? Even though we dismembered and burned her? Even a necromancer can’t bring her back. You’d need a body for that. There were only ashes left,“ he says matter of fact.

I hate it when he takes that tone. The It’s-a-fact-and-you-know-it tone.

I turn my head to the side.

“There is actually a necromancer in New Orleans that we can ask for help,“ I look at Hänsel expectantly.

He shakes his head.

“You’ve got be kidding. You’ve thought of everything haven’t you?“ He smiles widely.

“If it turns out as a dead end? We’ll go home,“ I say adamantly.

“But if she’s alive and breathing? I want to stop her once and for all.“

I roll my shoulders.

Itching to go out there and just let out the anger I’ve been feeling lately. Or even better, take out my crossbow and shoot at some targets. I could use the practice.

“Slow down Van Helsing. What else is on your mind?“ He asks.

Of course he picked up on that.

“Ever since we escaped, I’ve devoured every lore and legend there is. Anything I can get my hands on. To find out what happened. What her ultimate goal was. Ever since I caught sight of this case, I needed to get more info. To find out anything I can. Because the more we know the better we’re prepared,“ I shiver because I feel cold all of a sudden. I put my arms around myself to warm my body up.

“And your conclusion?“ He prods.

I leave the kitchen to get my laptop. I put it onto the kitchen island and when it’s fired up I click on the files I’ve saved.

Everything is alphabetically organized so that I can easily find everything.

“I’ve printed out a map and circled all the places people were taken. The places seem completely random, except…“ I explain and show him a map of New Orleans on the screen.

“If you take a closer look you will see that this line right here?“ I point to it and continue “Is a ley line that stretches from New York up until New Orleans,“ I say.

His eyebrows knit together in confusion.

“Meaning?“

“It means that whatever they’re planning needs a lot of juice. The ley lines would offer that. According to legends, it amplifies the magical powers that you already have and makes any spell or ritual more potent. It also means they have a very short amount of time to make it work. The ley lines won’t let you use their power for long and keeping that line open is straining to say the least,“ I finish.

“Meaning you’d probably need a lot of magical users for that,“ he says.

“Exactly,“ I nod.

“What else have you got on those ley lines?“ He looks intently at the screen, the light from the laptop reflects on his face and gives him a blue hue.

I scroll though the files I’ve compiled.

“That’s pretty much it. There is not much known about it. Most of it are legends, and you know how that works. Opinions are divided on what to believe.“

I lean forward to turn the laptop off and close it.

“It’s like the blue-line case,“ Hänsel mumbles

I stare at my brother. Who seems deep in thought. He tries to piece our last case back together.

“There are similarities, but I don’t think it’s the same,“ I say and shake my head.

“If what you say is true. Who or what would need this much power? And where would they even find people powerful enough for it?“ he asks.

I shrug.

“That I don’t know.“

I walk back and forth, my thoughts running wild.

“There’s something off about the way these people are taken. I can feel it Hänsel. And I know you do too. This whole thing just reeks of black magic. Someone on an ego power trip,“ I pin him down with an intense gaze.

“It’s not just the ley lines that worry me. Halloween is close by. The veil to the other side gets thinner by the day. Nothing good can come from that. We have less than a month to find these people before it’s too late.“

He stops me from wearing a path into the carpet and takes my cold hands in his warm ones.

“If it will put your mind at ease. We’ll look into it,“ he says.

“But I can’t make a promise to be nice to Ryder,“ he says heat rises in his high cheekbones.

“Why? He’s never done anything to you, has he?“

Racking my brain and not able to come up with a single thing he could’ve said or done.

“He called me and I quote “a mediocre hunter who only gets in his way.“

He looks incredulously at me.

I cover my mouth with my hand to stifle a laugh that’s trying to bubble to the surface. But a small sound still escapes past my fingers.

“Are you laughing? At me? Your own twin brother?“ His face twists into a grimace.

I take my hand away and burst out laughing.

“You should’ve seen your face. It was hilarious…Mediocre. I’ve got to steal that one,“ I put my hand on my stomach. It hurts from all the laugther. It almost makes me double-over.

He puts his hands on his hips and try to look intimidating, but fail miserably.

I pat his arm gently.

“Don’t be a drama queen little brother. I’ll save you from the bad hunter pinky promise.“

He scoffs and shakes off my arm.

“Whatever.“

I shake my head, still laughing.

He goes to his room to pack. I’ve already packed my suitcase. All we need to do is catch our flight.

And I can already tell it’s going to be a long trip.

[peonierose]

Strange Encounters

Chapter 2

Nightbound AU vs. Hänsel & Gretel

Book: Nightbound

Characters involved: Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC), Gretel van Andresen (F!OC), Grey (M!OC), Nik Ryder (M!MC), Katherine (F!MC)

Words: 3,000+

Type: Series

Rating: Teen / A few curse words

Summary: Hänsel and Gretel arrive in New Orleans and meet some old friends. Will they be able to help them with the case?

A/N: Side note: This story has been a year in the making and I hope you’ll give it a chance. A massive thank you to these wonderful people for being super excited for this story and helping me with it. @annieruok94 ❤️ @doriopenheart 🧡

Side note: In case you missed Chapter 1

If you’d like to listen to the songs that inspired for this chapter here’s a list

Strange encounters

We flew in from the Black Forest in Germany and landed in New Orleans after a ten-hour flight. We had to make a stop in London, then continued to New Orleans.

Which my dearest brother complained all the way.

”Do you think we’re close?“ Hänsel asked.

I roll my eyes at my brother.

”You can be in a stake-out for hours? But can’t be on a ten-hour flight?“ I ask him while I try to eat some of the food on the plane.

He just shrugs and puts his headphones on.

We’re currently at The Graveyard Shift right in the heart of the French Quarter. Owned by none other than Garrus. A Fae who’s no longer living among his kind.

Garrus was the heir of a Fae viscount before the Fae cast him out. He remains exiled until this day. He was banished for running cons and swindling magic off the upper crust

Garrus is an incredible guy. He greeted us at the door with hugs and even gave Hänsel a kiss.

Hänsel was weirded out, to say the least, but he got over it.

The bar is dimly lit. We’re both sitting on wooden chairs at a table in the far back enjoying our drinks.

I lean back in my chair while flipping through a magazine I bought at the airport. As we’re waiting for Nik and Katherine to arrive. Nighthunters.

Nighthunters are as the name is already giving away hunters. They hunt all supernaturals. Just like Hänsel and I. Though we don’t call ourselves Nighthunters. We’re simply known as Hänsel & Gretel.

“I missed New Orleans,“ I say while I devour a beignet. Sighing in pure contentment. Oh my god. I could eat beignets every single day. Sugary goodness.

Hänsel scoffs and squats away at a mosquito.

“Yeah. The mosquitos. The heat. Real great,“ he says.

I take an apple I bought from a vendor earlier and hand it to Hänsel.

“Don’t be a downer. Here have an apple,“ I say.

He looks at the apple suspiciously.

”It’s not the snow white effect. Just take the apple,“ I say and offer it to him.

“Thank you loveliest sister of mine,“ he says through a bite.

I sigh.

“Shut up and eat,“ I flip to another page without looking up.

“Geez. You compliment a woman and she almost beats you over the head with it. Women are mysterious,“ he’s finished the apple. All that’s left is the core.

I give him a stare and smile softly.

“That’s because you haven’t figured us out yet dearest brother of mine,“ I wink and he rolls his eyes at me.

“Whatever,“ he replies and I chuckle in response.

I’m going through the magazine. An article about a DIY foaming face mask catches my attention while I’m listening with one ear to Hänsel’s ramblings.

I notice Hänsel stopped talking and walked over to the bar to talk to a woman who was sipping on her mimosa and I roll my eyes at him.

The chair that’s been occupied by Hänsel mere seconds ago is now seating a different person.

Nik Ryder himself. His blond hair was held back by gel and his blue eyes sparkling like the deep blue sea stare back at me.

He smirks and I put the magazine down on the wooden table.

“Funny meeting you here,“ he says and leans back in his chair, his legs stretched out and his leather jacket billowing behind him as if a soft breeze swirled it back.

I laugh.

“In New Orleans? What are the off chances of that? Hmm,“ I keep smiling.

He laughs.

“Bitch,“ he says.

“Jerk,“ I reply in turn and we both share a laugh.

He clasps my hand as a way of greeting me.

“It’s good to see you again,“ he smiles warmly.

“Likewise. I wish it was under different circumstances though,“ I say.

Meaning the missing person case that’s brought both me and Hänsel to New Orleans.

His smile dims.

“You and me both. As to the case, I don’t have much to tell you. Actually, make that nothing at all. I did grill the police but they don’t have anything. Or they don’t want to tell me. Which is worrisome,“ he says.

“I was afraid you’d say that,“ my shoulders sag. I was hoping he could dig up something.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t deliver better news,“ Nik smiles sadly at me.

He said just that when he was joined by a beautiful-looking woman.

Dressed from head to toe in black leather. Her dark wavy hair adorned her soft face. Her slightly darker skin tone is flawless. Her amber brown eyes glow as if from deep within.

She smiles at us and takes a sip of my drink.

“Good seeing you in one piece Gret,“ she says and her whiskey brown eyes sparkle.

I grin.

“You too Katie,“ I say because I can’t resist riling her up a bit.

She sighs and looks at Nik.

“See what you did? Now everyone calls me Katie. No one’s going to take me seriously with that name,“ she takes another sip.

I smile at her and say.

“We love you that’s why we call you Katie,“ I say.

She groans.

“Small children are called Katie. I’m a grown-ass woman,“ she says matter-of-factly.

Hänsel leans over her shoulder.

“A good-looking one at that,“ he says and she swats him away like a fly.

“And you just got more annoying,“ she says chuckling.

Hänsel gasps in shock.

“Pie-boy is getting roasted. I knew something was missing,“ Nik says grinning.

Hänsel cracks his knuckles.

“Bite me blondie,“ Hänsel says.

Niks grin widens and he just smiles at my brother.

“I’m afraid you’re not my type,“ he winks.

Katie looks between the guys and says.

“If you could stop your little pissing match. Maybe we could turn to more important matters?“ she says and pulls out a dark purple leather-bound notebook.

She’s jotting something down and I furrow my brow at her.

Nik notices my gaze and explains.

“Her way of keeping track of things,“ he says and I nod.

Katie looks up.

“This way I have everything I need. I don’t think I’m of much help regarding your case, but I can keep my ears to the ground. If I hear anything I’ll let you know,“ she says and closes her notebook, and puts it back in her bag. One I haven’t noticed before.

I sigh deeply.

“Why has the police not opened up an investigation? I mean it’s not just one person. We’re talking about at least a dozen people here. Don’t they think that’s suspicious?“ I ask around the table.

Both Nik and Katie share a long look. Silently communicating.

“What was that look?“ I point with my index finger between them.

Nik rubs his neck as if he’s embarrassed for some reason. A tinge of pink showed in his high-cheek bones.

“The police have a tight budget. When they learned about the disappearances they saw it was mostly homeless people. They didn’t think it was worth investigating. Spending money they don’t have on a case that’s probably going to lead nowhere? Yeah, not happening,“ he says with a frustrated gaze.

I’m about to get up when I feel Katherine’s hand on my own.

“I know how you feel. Trust me. We don’t like it any more than you do. However, just because the police can’t help, doesn’t mean we can’t. We can combine our strengths to solve this case,“ she says.

That’s when I remember Vera Reimonenq. Our mutual friend who has the Reimonenq touch. By touching someone with her bare hands, the basic outcome is death. She hasn’t learned to control her powers as her mother has. That’s also the reason why she wears gloves. At all times. You will never catch her without them.

Though Vera might have some ideas. She knows New Orleans better than anyone. Her family dates back generations. Vera’s great-great-grandfather, Derek Reimonenq murdered a coven of witches and their families, the witches in turn cursed the Reimonenqs. The curse prevents anyone in Vera’s family to touch anyone with their bare hands. Otherwise, the person they touch will die.

Vera’s mother who is also known as Lady Smoke is running the underworld. She’s got to know something.

That’s why I ask Nik and Katie.

“What about Vera?“

Nik already shakes his head.

“Vera and her mother are on some sort of trip. Looking for an artifact. No idea what though. They didn’t exactly provide us with any details,“ he says and shrugs.

I humm.

Katie looks intently at the door and whispers.

“There might be someone we could ask,“ she says.

“Who?“ I ask curiously.

Katie bites down on her lower lip.

“He’s known as The Shadow,“ she whispers.

Nik is shaking his head wildly at Katie.

“Are you crazy? He’s dangerous. It’s better to not get him involved,“ his lips pressed into a firm line.

Katie raises an eyebrow.

“What are our options?“ she asks and when Nik doesn’t reply she continues “Just because you butted heads a few times doesn’t mean he won’t be able to help us out,“ she says finishing off my drink.

“It’s still a no,“ Nik says.

Hänsel and I look between them.

“Sorry to interrupt your little love fest squabble but who are we talking about?“ I ask.

Katie turns to me with a serious look in her chestnut brown eyes.

“As I said. He’s called The Shadow…“ she doesn’t get to finish her sentence when someone loudly clears their throat.

We all look up and see Garrus. Who is pointing towards the back room of the bar with his head, indicating we should go to the back of the bar.

We all stand up and silently follow Garrus to the back of the bar.

When we’re safely inside Garrus loses the door and takes a look at each of us.

“You should be careful when you talk about him. He’s the most cunning supernatural I’ve ever met,“ he says.

Katie holds up her hands and stares at Garrus.

“Wait a minute. You guys met? When? And how come you didn’t say anything?“

Garrus sighs from deep within.

“Well, I swore an oath to not talk about it. This is as far as I can go,“ he admits. Fae love a good deal. Always making up their own little loopholes, that’s why you’ve got to be very careful when you make a deal with the Fae.

I hold up a hand.

“Well, Hänsel and I still don’t know who that is,“ I say more confused than ever.

Garrus’s ice-blue gaze holds my own hazel one.

“That’s because there’s not much to be known about him. He’s called The Shadow and he’s hard to find. But trust me when I say if he wants to find you? He will,“ he says.

Why does that excite me for some reason? Get your head out of the gutter Gretel. We’re here to solve a case and not get wild in the sheets with some Fae guy.

“Then let’s go find him. Hänsel you coming?“ I ask my brother.

Hänsel looks over at me and slowly retreats back to the door.

“Yeah. No. I know that look. I’m not helping you streak through the dark looking for trouble. That sounds like way too much work for my taste. And I’d rather spend some time with those nymph twins I saw earlier. I think I’m going to choose option number two and have some fun,“ he says.

“Seriously Hänsel? Can you for once in your life focus and think with your head and not with your dick?“

Everyone’s laughs turn into coughs when Hänsel gives them a look.

“You haven’t changed a bit pie-boy,“ Nik shakes with laughter.

Hänsel just looks at him.

“A) That’s really rude. B) That’s not true and C) Stop calling me pie boy,“ he says.

While Hänsel mutters to himself and walks out of the bar.

I sigh.

“I’m sorry about my brother. He’s usually not like that,“ I say to everyone else.

Nik turns serious.

“About The Shadow. He’s dangerous…“

I snort.

“As opposed to what? All the other supernaturals that are roaming the night?“

“He’s Fae. That of itself is dangerous,“ he quickly looks at Garrus.

“No offense man,“ he seems apologetic.

“It’s all good,“ Garrus replies.

“Does anyone else want to tag along?“ I ask around.

Katie and Nik both look at me and I know they won’t be able to help. I sigh.

“I wish I could but Nikki and I have a little project we’re working on. So we’ll be out of town for a few days,“ she says and Nik nods in agreement, but turns back and gives me a key.

“It’s the key to my place. You and Hänsel can crash there if you want,“ with those words he’s gone before I can even mutter a thank you. I smile to myself.

Now it’s just me and Garrus.

When the silence stretches on for too long I can see him giving me a long look before he wriggles his finger and tells me to follow him inside the bar.

I sit down on one of the bar stools and he begins wiping down the counter.

“Alright my little butterfly. What do you want to know?“ he asks and puts some dirty dishes into the sink.

“What do you know about that Fae?“ I ask leaning my elbows on the counter of the bar. I’m not sugarcoating things. Getting straight to business.

He dries a plate with a dish towel that was draped over his shoulder.

I lean closer to him to catch everything he has to say.

“I know his name is Grey. He and his little group of misfits collect from the highest bidder.“

I lean back and think about that for a few seconds.

“Doing what? Collecting artifacts? Sounds like the job of a bounty hunter to me,“ I look at him closely, but his face doesn’t reveal anything.

Garrus smiles at me.

“They collect anything and anyone. Making deals left and right. Anyone who’ll hire them, they’ll accept. The last thing I heard was they collected a rare gem. Made by Fae hands. I don’t know all the details. All I know is it’s pretty rare and priceless. Be careful when you go looking for him. You shouldn’t underestimate him,“ there’s a warning laced in his tone.

“I’ve dealt with worse,“ I say.

Garrus looks left and right. As if scared he would be overheard.

“That might be true rose petal. But you have never met a guy like him,“ he says done with cleaning and drying dishes.

I furrow my brow.

“Why is everyone so scared of him?“ I ask in wonderment.

“Because he moves like a shadow. You never see him coming. Others said that his beauty is out of this world. Making you do anything for him,“ he says pointedly.

“That sounds more like someone’s got a crush on him and hasn’t gotten laid in a while,“ I say.

He breaks out into laughter. After he recovered he hands me a shot glass. Shimmering with a blue opal-like liquid. It almost looks as if the liquid is swirling inside the shot glass.

“A little something on the house…“ he says.

I knock it back and smile at him while I leave the bar.

I’m almost out the door when his voice stops me.

“One other thing. Be careful little tulip,“ are his departing words.

I nod and then I’m out in the middle of the busy street. Right in the middle of the French Quarter.

The sun is slowly sinking and making way for the night. I’ve never liked the night. Daylight is my preferred time of day thank you very much.

The longer I walk the later it gets.

I’m walking through the French Quarter. Past busy bars that are open and bursting with partygoers.

All I encounter are drunken people and others looking for a hookup.

The deeper I move into the quieter parts of the city the less noise I hear. It’s as if all the noise from before got sucked out. The pale moonlight illuminated my way ahead. The soft taps of hooves moving past me on the cobblestones make me look to my right.

A white, open carriage is passing me by. An elderly couple is sitting and chatting animatedly inside.

The man manning the carriage taps his top hat slightly and smiles warmly at me as he moves past me. I smile and wave back at him.

A sudden gust of wind is blowing, making me shiver in my green leather coat. I walk by a dark alley, feeling as if my eyes are watching my every move.

Before I can even get my dagger out an arm jots out and grips me only to pin me against the brick wall in a nearby alley. The air leaves my body from the hard throw at the wall.

I look up and see a tall, hooded figure standing in front of me. Almost being one with the shadows.

“Why do you keep asking questions about me?“ he asks in a deep voice.

When I don’t answer he leans in closer.

”Stop following me!“ He says.

I try to break free of his grip. But it’s as if I was being held by steel. I can’t move an inch.

“I’m not following you. I’m looking for someone. You happened to be here,“ I retort.

He loses his grip and I can breathe a little easier again.

“Maybe the person you’re looking for doesn’t want to be found. Ever thought of that?“ he asks.

I’m trying to catch a glimpse of his face but he moves so fast through the shadows making it impossible to see anything.

“How do you know who I’m looking for? News flash you can’t order me around. So get out of my way,“ I say through gritted teeth.

He chuckles darkly. A chuckle that sends goosebumps all across my body.

“So we’re doing this the hard way. I really thought we could’ve avoided that,“ he says almost ruefully.

I try and slightly pull away his hood and see his pointy ears.His hair is as pale as moonlight.

He hisses under his breath and the next thing I know a purple haze is covering my eyes.

Then my whole world turns black and I’m out like a light.

[peonierose]

Uhh this is so fun 😍

I’ve decided to choose my new characters I’ll soon introduce Hänsel & Gretel from my Nightbound world 😍 These twins are seriously fun to write. I hope you’ll like them as much as I do 🥰

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Template Thursday: Favourites

This week, we have a template I found. It’s short and simple but I hope you still like this! 

Some weeks I will make the templates and others I will post online ones. Hope that’s okay! 

Keep reading

[peonierose]

Thank you for selecting this fic to send to me. Since I have never read Nightbound, I would have been unlikely to check it out and I am glad I did.

This was a story a year in the making, I planned to go into a different direction with the Li for Gretel but I’m glad I waited with posting the story 😅

Els I am beyond happy (I’d give you a big hug right now 🥰🥹) because this means the world to me. I wasn’t sure if you’d read it so when I wrote the chapter and the following ones I try to write even for those who’ve never played/read Nightbound. So that you can easily follow along. I hope you could follow along well, and I explained things well 🥰

What a unique take on this! Mixing in Hansel and Gretel, who have grown up to be supernatural sleuths is such a novel concept! Very creative of you!

I grew up with fairy tales. They were a big part of my childhood and I still enjoy them. So I thought wouldn’t it be cool to mix fairy tales with Nightbound? And so this series was born. It’s one of my favorite stories so far 🥰💖 Apart from my Open Heart world.

I love the interaction and banter between the siblings and Gretel’s determination. I also loved Hansel admitting how he is still impacted by the past. The nod to missing people who are homeless not being considered important by law enforcement… that struck me. Sadly, it’s quite true. 😞 Every life is not valued equally and it is a shame.

Yeah unfortunately both Hänsel and Gretel are still wearing the scars from the witch and the gingerbread house. You guys will see more glimpses into the past told from both Hänsel & Gretel. Hope you’ll like it. Hänsel & Gretel are both so funny to write. The sibling banter is quite unique so I love writing about them 🥰

So I have to ask, was Gretel really involved w Nik? Inquiring minds want to know. lol

I see 👀 I get it I’d be curious too 😅

Gretel & Nik are really good friends. They might’ve flirted with each other, but there was never anything romantic between them.

At first I actually wanted to pair Gretel & Nik up. But decided against it. She’s going to have a better life partner. You’ll see him in Chapter 3 (but I haven’t posted it yet) But if you’re curious you can check out chapter 2 💖

This was a very well written and entertaining fic, dear! I am so glad I had a chance to read it!💕

I am so happy you liked it. I can’t say thank you enough 💖 Hänsel & Gretel say thank you for liking 💖

Wake up Little Susie

Chapter 1

Nightbound AU vs. Hänsel & Gretel

Book: Nightbound AU

Type: Series

Characters involved: Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC), Gretel van Andresen (F!OC), Nik Ryder (M!MC), Katherine (F!MC), Garrus (M!MC)

Words: 2,500+

Rating: General, a few curse words

Summary: Hänsel and Gretel two amazing supernatural hunters are working on a new case that leads them to New Orleans and to old friends. So let the good times roll.

A/N: I’m posting this for @nbappreciationweek

Side note: This story has been a year in the making and I hope you’ll give it a chance. A massive thank you to these wonderful people for being super excited for this story and helping me with it. @annieruok94 ❤️@ofmischiefandmedicine 💖 @doriopenheart 🧡 @ladylamrian 💜 @inlocusmads 💚

2nd Side note: I’ve put out an intro you can catch up here. If you want to listen to the playlist I’ve created for this chapter you can do that here.

———————————————————

I stride into Hänsel’s room not caring if he is awake or not. This can’t wait any longer.

The room is pitch black. You can’t even make out the sleeping figure, who slumbers peacefully, tangled in his sheets, and snores softly.

I take a moment to look at him. He looks so peaceful, like he has no care in the world. Well it’s about to get interesting.

I touch his shoulder gently, and start to shake him awake. He stirs and throws out every curse word he knows.

“What in three hells, Gretel?“ His voice is still rough from sleep. He puts his pillow over his head, to avoid the light that spills through the room from outside the hall.

“Wake up sleeping beauty,“ I smile sweetly, because I know he hates it when I wake him up.

He groans and sits up in bed. Thank god the sheets cover the important bits, while the pillow gets pushed to the side.

“I wasn’t sleeping a hundred years. And where’s the fire? Why do I have to be awake?“ He asks sleepily. He still sounds groggy.

I shake my head at him.

“There’s no fire, Mr. grouchy pants. But we do have a case. Get dressed,“ I tell him, while I pull the curtains apart to let in some sunshine. He blinks against the harsh light and covers his face with his arm.

“Seriously? What case? We just came back from a hunt, Gretel. And don’t call me grouchy pants.“

I turn my head in his direction and smile. He crosses his arms over his chest.

“No rest for the wicked.“ I chirp.

He rolls his eyes.

“It’s creepy for you to be so chipper in the morning. Again. What case?“

He holds my gaze for a few seconds longer while he looks for any type of reaction. His dark blond hair disshelved and his hazel eyes sleepy but alert.

Not willing to disclose any details yet,

I walk to his closet and pick a pair of dark jeans and a flannel shirt and throw it at him. The clothes hit him in the face.

“I told you to get dressed. We’re wasting sunlight.“

I leave his room and hear him curse. I grin. My job here is done.

__________________________________

Hänsel walks into the kitchen. His jaw set, his shoulders pulled back. He gets himself some coffee and leans on the kitchen island and crosses his ankles. He appears relaxed and comfortable, but I know he’s anything but.

He takes a slow sip and looks at me directly. His face unreadable. Even though we’re twins (though I’m the older one), even I can’t decipher what’s going through his head right now.

“You woke me up. We all know how much I love that,“ he says sarcastically.

“Without even telling me what the hell is going on!“

I firmly bite my bottom lip.

“You won’t like it.“ I admit.

Hänsel only raises an eyebrow.

“Go on, sis.“

He empathizes that by pointing to his black coffee mug with the words “Hell raiser“ in my direction.

I walk to my room and hand him several pages I printed out. Dozens of faces stare back at me.

Disappearances of at least 20 people. From all sorts of backgrounds and of all ethnicities. Caucasian, African-American, Asian. You name it.

Women and men. Tall and short. Long and short hair. There seems to be no connection between them.

Hänsel sets down his coffee mug, to take a closer look at the missing file reports. He sets the papers down and gives me a pointed look.

“You’re right I don’t like it. This is turning into a weird obsession Gretel. You’ve got to stop this. I mean it.“

He takes his mug and is about to walk away.

“Weird obsession?“ My voice is steely.

He stops mid-walk and turns around.

“I’m saying this as your twin brother who loves you. Those people“ he points at the papers in my hands.

“It’s the local polices job to find them and bring them back safe and sound. Not ours. We only deal with the supernatural stuff. You know? What goes bump in the night,“ he finishes.

I gulp.

“So you’re saying you won’t come with me?“ I ask defiantly.

“And where is that exactly?“ He asks calmly.

I wet my lips and look away not able to meet his eyes.

“New Orleans,“ I say and he nods.

“Now we’re getting closer. This is why you want to investigate? So you can see your former flame again?“ He wiggles his eyebrows.

I narrow my eyes.

“Oh Nik you’re so dreamy. We should like hunt monsters together…blah…blah…“ he says in high-pitched voice to mimic me.

I take a pillow from the couch and throw it at him. It hits him in the chest and he doubles over from laughing.

“I don’t talk like that!“ I cross my arms over my chest.

“Nik and I are just friends. We always have been,“ I say.

“He’s not even my type,“ I add and Hänsel shudders.

“I don’t even want to know what your type is. There are certain things a brother does not need to know about his sister,“ he cringes.

I sigh.

“That’s not the reason I want to go to New Orleans. I want to find out what happened to these people. Or do you mean to tell me you don’t care what happens to their fate?“ I say sternly.

He stops laughing and turns serious. His hazel eyes glinting.

“Of course I care. But there’s no indication that there is a supernatural element involved,“ he states.

“When you looked at the faces did you take a closer look? There’s no connection. They’re being picked at random. But there’s got to be something that connects all of them. I say we fly down to New Orleans and find out what that is,“ I say.

That gets his attention. His eyes turn cold and he presses his lips into a firm line.

“Could be human trafficking. Or sex trade. They’re all kinds of sickos out there. Supernaturals aren’t that different from humans,“ he shrugs.

“You’re turning away from the truth Hänsel. These people are being picked up and no one bats an eye,“ I implore.

He sighs deeply.

“If you’re implying that this is the work of the witch, then I have to disappoint you. She’s dead Gretel. We made damn sure of that.“

Clearly, he‘s not willing to even entertain the idea.

“Did we though? We were kids back then,“ I say and tug nervously at my long blonde braid.

“Even though we were kids I’m pretty sure if you separate every part of a persons body, shove it into an oven and it burns? Yeah. That’s as dead as can be,“ he says matter-of-fact.

I shake my head I’ve heard enough.

“Fine. Then stay here sleep, drink and do nothing. While people are taken from their beds, or picked off the streets. I mean who cares right?“

I point a finger at myself.

“I’ll go investigate. Because I don’t want them to go through the same hell that we did. You might’ve moved on, and you’re trying to forget…“ My voice almost hitches on the last words. “I can’t.“

His voice breaks the silence.

“It’s funny, really. That you think I’ve moved on. Or that I can forget what that witch almost did to us. She lures kids to her knowing exactly which buttons to push,“ he stops and then continues.

“Did you know I still have nightmares every night?“ He confesses. I look up at him, surprise clearly written all over my face, my lips slightly parted.

“No. Why did you never say anything, Hänsel?“

My voice is barely above a whisper.

“Honestly? I don’t know. I always felt like it’s a weakness. Admitting that you have nightmares. All the things we’ve seen, hunted and killed. It’s ironic, really. The one thing that has me woken up sweaty almost every single night is that damn gingerbread house. It wasn’t bad enough I developed diabetes. No. Seeing her turn from someone nice into someone evil in a heartbeat? Yeah, I’ll never forget that face. I’m glad we escaped that hellhole. But the memories still linger on.“

He rubs his eyes tiredly.

I close the distance and envelop him in a hug. It’s like a weight has been lifted. His shoulders sag and he almost crushes me when he returns the hug. We stand in our little kitchen, hugging each other like our lives depend on it.

Each other is all we have left.

What else have I not seen? Hänsel still has nightmares. I did not see his pain. I bury my face in his flannel shirt. Not able to stop some tears that escape my eyes. Soaking into his shirt. I wipe them away with the pad of my thumb.

After a couple of minutes we break apart.

“Want to tell me what Ryder said?“ Hänsel asks.

“We didn’t talk that much. I only wanted to let him know about the disappearances. He was genuinely surprised. I could tell by his voice that I caught him off-guard. He promised to get some info and let me know.“

I gnaw on my lips thoughtfully.

“How is that possible?“ He sounds suspicious.

“Well, he said people disappear all the time. Since these are people from the streets or homeless shelters we’re talking about…“ I shrug and continue.

“The police doesn’t think it’s worth the while to investigate. According to Nik they’ll look into it, but he’s not very hopeful that they’ll do a thorough enough job.“

He ponders over that for a minute.

“So what? You think the witch somehow made it out alive? Even though we dismembered and burned her? Even a necromancer can’t bring her back. You’d need a body for that. There were only ashes left,“ he says matter of fact.

I hate it when he takes that tone. The It’s-a-fact-and-you-know-it tone.

I turn my head to the side.

“There is actually a necromancer in New Orleans that we can ask for help,“ I look at Hänsel expectantly.

He shakes his head.

“You’ve got be kidding. You’ve thought of everything haven’t you?“ He smiles widely.

“If it turns out as a dead end? We’ll go home,“ I say adamantly.

“But if she’s alive and breathing? I want to stop her once and for all.“

I roll my shoulders.

Itching to go out there and just let out the anger I’ve been feeling lately. Or even better, take out my crossbow and shoot at some targets. I could use the practice.

“Slow down Van Helsing. What else is on your mind?“ He asks.

Of course he picked up on that.

“Ever since we escaped, I’ve devoured every lore and legend there is. Anything I can get my hands on. To find out what happened. What her ultimate goal was. Ever since I caught sight of this case, I needed to get more info. To find out anything I can. Because the more we know the better we’re prepared,“ I shiver because I feel cold all of a sudden. I put my arms around myself to warm my body up.

“And your conclusion?“ He prods.

I leave the kitchen to get my laptop. I put it onto the kitchen island and when it’s fired up I click on the files I’ve saved.

Everything is alphabetically organized so that I can easily find everything.

“I’ve printed out a map and circled all the places people were taken. The places seem completely random, except…“ I explain and show him a map of New Orleans on the screen.

“If you take a closer look you will see that this line right here?“ I point to it and continue “Is a ley line that stretches from New York up until New Orleans,“ I say.

His eyebrows knit together in confusion.

“Meaning?“

“It means that whatever they’re planning needs a lot of juice. The ley lines would offer that. According to legends, it amplifies the magical powers that you already have and makes any spell or ritual more potent. It also means they have a very short amount of time to make it work. The ley lines won’t let you use their power for long and keeping that line open is straining to say the least,“ I finish.

“Meaning you’d probably need a lot of magical users for that,“ he says.

“Exactly,“ I nod.

“What else have you got on those ley lines?“ He looks intently at the screen, the light from the laptop reflects on his face and gives him a blue hue.

I scroll though the files I’ve compiled.

“That’s pretty much it. There is not much known about it. Most of it are legends, and you know how that works. Opinions are divided on what to believe.“

I lean forward to turn the laptop off and close it.

“It’s like the blue-line case,“ Hänsel mumbles

I stare at my brother. Who seems deep in thought. He tries to piece our last case back together.

“There are similarities, but I don’t think it’s the same,“ I say and shake my head.

“If what you say is true. Who or what would need this much power? And where would they even find people powerful enough for it?“ he asks.

I shrug.

“That I don’t know.“

I walk back and forth, my thoughts running wild.

“There’s something off about the way these people are taken. I can feel it Hänsel. And I know you do too. This whole thing just reeks of black magic. Someone on an ego power trip,“ I pin him down with an intense gaze.

“It’s not just the ley lines that worry me. Halloween is close by. The veil to the other side gets thinner by the day. Nothing good can come from that. We have less than a month to find these people before it’s too late.“

He stops me from wearing a path into the carpet and takes my cold hands in his warm ones.

“If it will put your mind at ease. We’ll look into it,“ he says.

“But I can’t make a promise to be nice to Ryder,“ he says heat rises in his high cheekbones.

“Why? He’s never done anything to you, has he?“

Racking my brain and not able to come up with a single thing he could’ve said or done.

“He called me and I quote “a mediocre hunter who only gets in his way.“

He looks incredulously at me.

I cover my mouth with my hand to stifle a laugh that’s trying to bubble to the surface. But a small sound still escapes past my fingers.

“Are you laughing? At me? Your own twin brother?“ His face twists into a grimace.

I take my hand away and burst out laughing.

“You should’ve seen your face. It was hilarious…Mediocre. I’ve got to steal that one,“ I put my hand on my stomach. It hurts from all the laugther. It almost makes me double-over.

He puts his hands on his hips and try to look intimidating, but fail miserably.

I pat his arm gently.

“Don’t be a drama queen little brother. I’ll save you from the bad hunter pinky promise.“

He scoffs and shakes off my arm.

“Whatever.“

I shake my head, still laughing.

He goes to his room to pack. I’ve already packed my suitcase. All we need to do is catch our flight.

And I can already tell it’s going to be a long trip.

[peonierose]

Oh my gosh no worries 😉😅 It’s totally fine, you’re all caught up now 🥰

I love the banter it’s one of my favorite 😍

You’ll find out more about the Shadow in Chapter 3 - he’s going to be interesting - The Shadow is turning into one of my favorite characters 😍 I really hope you’ll like the shadow too 💖

Thank you so much for reblogging it really means a lot 🥹💖

Strange Encounters

Chapter 2

Nightbound AU vs. Hänsel & Gretel

Book: Nightbound

Characters involved: Hänsel van Andresen (M!OC), Gretel van Andresen (F!OC), Grey (M!OC), Nik Ryder (M!MC), Katherine (F!MC)

Words: 3,000+

Type: Series

Rating: Teen / A few curse words

Summary: Hänsel and Gretel arrive in New Orleans and meet some old friends. Will they be able to help them with the case?

A/N: Side note: This story has been a year in the making and I hope you’ll give it a chance. A massive thank you to these wonderful people for being super excited for this story and helping me with it. @annieruok94 ❤️ @doriopenheart 🧡

Side note: In case you missed Chapter 1

If you’d like to listen to the songs that inspired for this chapter here’s a list

Strange encounters

We flew in from the Black Forest in Germany and landed in New Orleans after a ten-hour flight. We had to make a stop in London, then continued to New Orleans.

Which my dearest brother complained all the way.

”Do you think we’re close?“ Hänsel asked.

I roll my eyes at my brother.

”You can be in a stake-out for hours? But can’t be on a ten-hour flight?“ I ask him while I try to eat some of the food on the plane.

He just shrugs and puts his headphones on.

We’re currently at The Graveyard Shift right in the heart of the French Quarter. Owned by none other than Garrus. A Fae who’s no longer living among his kind.

Garrus was the heir of a Fae viscount before the Fae cast him out. He remains exiled until this day. He was banished for running cons and swindling magic off the upper crust

Garrus is an incredible guy. He greeted us at the door with hugs and even gave Hänsel a kiss.

Hänsel was weirded out, to say the least, but he got over it.

The bar is dimly lit. We’re both sitting on wooden chairs at a table in the far back enjoying our drinks.

I lean back in my chair while flipping through a magazine I bought at the airport. As we’re waiting for Nik and Katherine to arrive. Nighthunters.

Nighthunters are as the name is already giving away hunters. They hunt all supernaturals. Just like Hänsel and I. Though we don’t call ourselves Nighthunters. We’re simply known as Hänsel & Gretel.

“I missed New Orleans,“ I say while I devour a beignet. Sighing in pure contentment. Oh my god. I could eat beignets every single day. Sugary goodness.

Hänsel scoffs and squats away at a mosquito.

“Yeah. The mosquitos. The heat. Real great,“ he says.

I take an apple I bought from a vendor earlier and hand it to Hänsel.

“Don’t be a downer. Here have an apple,“ I say.

He looks at the apple suspiciously.

”It’s not the snow white effect. Just take the apple,“ I say and offer it to him.

“Thank you loveliest sister of mine,“ he says through a bite.

I sigh.

“Shut up and eat,“ I flip to another page without looking up.

“Geez. You compliment a woman and she almost beats you over the head with it. Women are mysterious,“ he’s finished the apple. All that’s left is the core.

I give him a stare and smile softly.

“That’s because you haven’t figured us out yet dearest brother of mine,“ I wink and he rolls his eyes at me.

“Whatever,“ he replies and I chuckle in response.

I’m going through the magazine. An article about a DIY foaming face mask catches my attention while I’m listening with one ear to Hänsel’s ramblings.

I notice Hänsel stopped talking and walked over to the bar to talk to a woman who was sipping on her mimosa and I roll my eyes at him.

The chair that’s been occupied by Hänsel mere seconds ago is now seating a different person.

Nik Ryder himself. His blond hair was held back by gel and his blue eyes sparkling like the deep blue sea stare back at me.

He smirks and I put the magazine down on the wooden table.

“Funny meeting you here,“ he says and leans back in his chair, his legs stretched out and his leather jacket billowing behind him as if a soft breeze swirled it back.

I laugh.

“In New Orleans? What are the off chances of that? Hmm,“ I keep smiling.

He laughs.

“Bitch,“ he says.

“Jerk,“ I reply in turn and we both share a laugh.

He clasps my hand as a way of greeting me.

“It’s good to see you again,“ he smiles warmly.

“Likewise. I wish it was under different circumstances though,“ I say.

Meaning the missing person case that’s brought both me and Hänsel to New Orleans.

His smile dims.

“You and me both. As to the case, I don’t have much to tell you. Actually, make that nothing at all. I did grill the police but they don’t have anything. Or they don’t want to tell me. Which is worrisome,“ he says.

“I was afraid you’d say that,“ my shoulders sag. I was hoping he could dig up something.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t deliver better news,“ Nik smiles sadly at me.

He said just that when he was joined by a beautiful-looking woman.

Dressed from head to toe in black leather. Her dark wavy hair adorned her soft face. Her slightly darker skin tone is flawless. Her amber brown eyes glow as if from deep within.

She smiles at us and takes a sip of my drink.

“Good seeing you in one piece Gret,“ she says and her whiskey brown eyes sparkle.

I grin.

“You too Katie,“ I say because I can’t resist riling her up a bit.

She sighs and looks at Nik.

“See what you did? Now everyone calls me Katie. No one’s going to take me seriously with that name,“ she takes another sip.

I smile at her and say.

“We love you that’s why we call you Katie,“ I say.

She groans.

“Small children are called Katie. I’m a grown-ass woman,“ she says matter-of-factly.

Hänsel leans over her shoulder.

“A good-looking one at that,“ he says and she swats him away like a fly.

“And you just got more annoying,“ she says chuckling.

Hänsel gasps in shock.

“Pie-boy is getting roasted. I knew something was missing,“ Nik says grinning.

Hänsel cracks his knuckles.

“Bite me blondie,“ Hänsel says.

Niks grin widens and he just smiles at my brother.

“I’m afraid you’re not my type,“ he winks.

Katie looks between the guys and says.

“If you could stop your little pissing match. Maybe we could turn to more important matters?“ she says and pulls out a dark purple leather-bound notebook.

She’s jotting something down and I furrow my brow at her.

Nik notices my gaze and explains.

“Her way of keeping track of things,“ he says and I nod.

Katie looks up.

“This way I have everything I need. I don’t think I’m of much help regarding your case, but I can keep my ears to the ground. If I hear anything I’ll let you know,“ she says and closes her notebook, and puts it back in her bag. One I haven’t noticed before.

I sigh deeply.

“Why has the police not opened up an investigation? I mean it’s not just one person. We’re talking about at least a dozen people here. Don’t they think that’s suspicious?“ I ask around the table.

Both Nik and Katie share a long look. Silently communicating.

“What was that look?“ I point with my index finger between them.

Nik rubs his neck as if he’s embarrassed for some reason. A tinge of pink showed in his high-cheek bones.

“The police have a tight budget. When they learned about the disappearances they saw it was mostly homeless people. They didn’t think it was worth investigating. Spending money they don’t have on a case that’s probably going to lead nowhere? Yeah, not happening,“ he says with a frustrated gaze.

I’m about to get up when I feel Katherine’s hand on my own.

“I know how you feel. Trust me. We don’t like it any more than you do. However, just because the police can’t help, doesn’t mean we can’t. We can combine our strengths to solve this case,“ she says.

That’s when I remember Vera Reimonenq. Our mutual friend who has the Reimonenq touch. By touching someone with her bare hands, the basic outcome is death. She hasn’t learned to control her powers as her mother has. That’s also the reason why she wears gloves. At all times. You will never catch her without them.

Though Vera might have some ideas. She knows New Orleans better than anyone. Her family dates back generations. Vera’s great-great-grandfather, Derek Reimonenq murdered a coven of witches and their families, the witches in turn cursed the Reimonenqs. The curse prevents anyone in Vera’s family to touch anyone with their bare hands. Otherwise, the person they touch will die.

Vera’s mother who is also known as Lady Smoke is running the underworld. She’s got to know something.

That’s why I ask Nik and Katie.

“What about Vera?“

Nik already shakes his head.

“Vera and her mother are on some sort of trip. Looking for an artifact. No idea what though. They didn’t exactly provide us with any details,“ he says and shrugs.

I humm.

Katie looks intently at the door and whispers.

“There might be someone we could ask,“ she says.

“Who?“ I ask curiously.

Katie bites down on her lower lip.

“He’s known as The Shadow,“ she whispers.

Nik is shaking his head wildly at Katie.

“Are you crazy? He’s dangerous. It’s better to not get him involved,“ his lips pressed into a firm line.

Katie raises an eyebrow.

“What are our options?“ she asks and when Nik doesn’t reply she continues “Just because you butted heads a few times doesn’t mean he won’t be able to help us out,“ she says finishing off my drink.

“It’s still a no,“ Nik says.

Hänsel and I look between them.

“Sorry to interrupt your little love fest squabble but who are we talking about?“ I ask.

Katie turns to me with a serious look in her chestnut brown eyes.

“As I said. He’s called The Shadow…“ she doesn’t get to finish her sentence when someone loudly clears their throat.

We all look up and see Garrus. Who is pointing towards the back room of the bar with his head, indicating we should go to the back of the bar.

We all stand up and silently follow Garrus to the back of the bar.

When we’re safely inside Garrus loses the door and takes a look at each of us.

“You should be careful when you talk about him. He’s the most cunning supernatural I’ve ever met,“ he says.

Katie holds up her hands and stares at Garrus.

“Wait a minute. You guys met? When? And how come you didn’t say anything?“

Garrus sighs from deep within.

“Well, I swore an oath to not talk about it. This is as far as I can go,“ he admits. Fae love a good deal. Always making up their own little loopholes, that’s why you’ve got to be very careful when you make a deal with the Fae.

I hold up a hand.

“Well, Hänsel and I still don’t know who that is,“ I say more confused than ever.

Garrus’s ice-blue gaze holds my own hazel one.

“That’s because there’s not much to be known about him. He’s called The Shadow and he’s hard to find. But trust me when I say if he wants to find you? He will,“ he says.

Why does that excite me for some reason? Get your head out of the gutter Gretel. We’re here to solve a case and not get wild in the sheets with some Fae guy.

“Then let’s go find him. Hänsel you coming?“ I ask my brother.

Hänsel looks over at me and slowly retreats back to the door.

“Yeah. No. I know that look. I’m not helping you streak through the dark looking for trouble. That sounds like way too much work for my taste. And I’d rather spend some time with those nymph twins I saw earlier. I think I’m going to choose option number two and have some fun,“ he says.

“Seriously Hänsel? Can you for once in your life focus and think with your head and not with your dick?“

Everyone’s laughs turn into coughs when Hänsel gives them a look.

“You haven’t changed a bit pie-boy,“ Nik shakes with laughter.

Hänsel just looks at him.

“A) That’s really rude. B) That’s not true and C) Stop calling me pie boy,“ he says.

While Hänsel mutters to himself and walks out of the bar.

I sigh.

“I’m sorry about my brother. He’s usually not like that,“ I say to everyone else.

Nik turns serious.

“About The Shadow. He’s dangerous…“

I snort.

“As opposed to what? All the other supernaturals that are roaming the night?“

“He’s Fae. That of itself is dangerous,“ he quickly looks at Garrus.

“No offense man,“ he seems apologetic.

“It’s all good,“ Garrus replies.

“Does anyone else want to tag along?“ I ask around.

Katie and Nik both look at me and I know they won’t be able to help. I sigh.

“I wish I could but Nikki and I have a little project we’re working on. So we’ll be out of town for a few days,“ she says and Nik nods in agreement, but turns back and gives me a key.

“It’s the key to my place. You and Hänsel can crash there if you want,“ with those words he’s gone before I can even mutter a thank you. I smile to myself.

Now it’s just me and Garrus.

When the silence stretches on for too long I can see him giving me a long look before he wriggles his finger and tells me to follow him inside the bar.

I sit down on one of the bar stools and he begins wiping down the counter.

“Alright my little butterfly. What do you want to know?“ he asks and puts some dirty dishes into the sink.

“What do you know about that Fae?“ I ask leaning my elbows on the counter of the bar. I’m not sugarcoating things. Getting straight to business.

He dries a plate with a dish towel that was draped over his shoulder.

I lean closer to him to catch everything he has to say.

“I know his name is Grey. He and his little group of misfits collect from the highest bidder.“

I lean back and think about that for a few seconds.

“Doing what? Collecting artifacts? Sounds like the job of a bounty hunter to me,“ I look at him closely, but his face doesn’t reveal anything.

Garrus smiles at me.

“They collect anything and anyone. Making deals left and right. Anyone who’ll hire them, they’ll accept. The last thing I heard was they collected a rare gem. Made by Fae hands. I don’t know all the details. All I know is it’s pretty rare and priceless. Be careful when you go looking for him. You shouldn’t underestimate him,“ there’s a warning laced in his tone.

“I’ve dealt with worse,“ I say.

Garrus looks left and right. As if scared he would be overheard.

“That might be true rose petal. But you have never met a guy like him,“ he says done with cleaning and drying dishes.

I furrow my brow.

“Why is everyone so scared of him?“ I ask in wonderment.

“Because he moves like a shadow. You never see him coming. Others said that his beauty is out of this world. Making you do anything for him,“ he says pointedly.

“That sounds more like someone’s got a crush on him and hasn’t gotten laid in a while,“ I say.

He breaks out into laughter. After he recovered he hands me a shot glass. Shimmering with a blue opal-like liquid. It almost looks as if the liquid is swirling inside the shot glass.

“A little something on the house…“ he says.

I knock it back and smile at him while I leave the bar.

I’m almost out the door when his voice stops me.

“One other thing. Be careful little tulip,“ are his departing words.

I nod and then I’m out in the middle of the busy street. Right in the middle of the French Quarter.

The sun is slowly sinking and making way for the night. I’ve never liked the night. Daylight is my preferred time of day thank you very much.

The longer I walk the later it gets.

I’m walking through the French Quarter. Past busy bars that are open and bursting with partygoers.

All I encounter are drunken people and others looking for a hookup.

The deeper I move into the quieter parts of the city the less noise I hear. It’s as if all the noise from before got sucked out. The pale moonlight illuminated my way ahead. The soft taps of hooves moving past me on the cobblestones make me look to my right.

A white, open carriage is passing me by. An elderly couple is sitting and chatting animatedly inside.

The man manning the carriage taps his top hat slightly and smiles warmly at me as he moves past me. I smile and wave back at him.

A sudden gust of wind is blowing, making me shiver in my green leather coat. I walk by a dark alley, feeling as if my eyes are watching my every move.

Before I can even get my dagger out an arm jots out and grips me only to pin me against the brick wall in a nearby alley. The air leaves my body from the hard throw at the wall.

I look up and see a tall, hooded figure standing in front of me. Almost being one with the shadows.

“Why do you keep asking questions about me?“ he asks in a deep voice.

When I don’t answer he leans in closer.

”Stop following me!“ He says.

I try to break free of his grip. But it’s as if I was being held by steel. I can’t move an inch.

“I’m not following you. I’m looking for someone. You happened to be here,“ I retort.

He loses his grip and I can breathe a little easier again.

“Maybe the person you’re looking for doesn’t want to be found. Ever thought of that?“ he asks.

I’m trying to catch a glimpse of his face but he moves so fast through the shadows making it impossible to see anything.

“How do you know who I’m looking for? News flash you can’t order me around. So get out of my way,“ I say through gritted teeth.

He chuckles darkly. A chuckle that sends goosebumps all across my body.

“So we’re doing this the hard way. I really thought we could’ve avoided that,“ he says almost ruefully.

I try and slightly pull away his hood and see his pointy ears.His hair is as pale as moonlight.

He hisses under his breath and the next thing I know a purple haze is covering my eyes.

Then my whole world turns black and I’m out like a light.

[peonierose]

Who is coming?

Luna Auclair (F!OC - Open Heart)

Which book?

Open Heart

Will she bring a +1?

Yes her fiancé (almost husband) Bryce Lahela (M!MC - Open Heart)

Who is coming?

Maxine Moore (F!OC - Open Heart)

Which book?

Open Heart

Will she bring a +1?

Adam Sinclair (M!OC - Open Heart)

Who is coming?

Keiki Lahela (F!MC - Open Heart)

Which book?

Open Heart

Will she bring a +1?

Koa Haulani (M!OC - Open Heart)

Who is coming?

Hayley Valentine (F!MC - Open Heart)

Which book?

Open Heart

Will she bring a +1?

Her husband, Ethan Ramsey (M!MC - Open Heart)

Who is coming?

Gretel van Andresen (F!OC - Nightbound)

Which book?

Nigthbound

Will she bring a +1?

Grey (M!OC - Nightbound)

Who is coming?

Sam Dalton (M!MC - The Nanny Affair)

Which book?

The Nanny Affair

Will he bring a +1?

Yes his wife, Emma Anderson (F!MC - The Nanny Affair)

Who is coming?

Robin Flores (M!MC - The Nanny Affair)

Which book?

The Nanny Affair

Will he bring a +1?

Addison Dalton (F!MC - The Nanny Affair)

🍾🎉 You're Invited! 🍾🎉

We want to get to know everyone's characters, but in a new (and hopefully fun) way. So we're throwing a party!

That's right, our June theme is the 'MC Mixer', over the next 4 weeks we are going to want to know all about your characters and their party styles and habits. Each week, we'll have a new series of HC questions that we want you to answer for your MCs/OCs.

... but before we can throw the party, we need your RSVP!

If you'd like to participate, please reblog this post, or create your own and let us know the following:

Who will be coming? Which MC / OC will be joining the party? The more the merrier, if you want to submit multiple characters, go for it!

Where are they coming from? Which Choices book does your MC / OC reside in?

Will they be bringing a +1? Are they going to be bringing a date to the party? (This is our fancy way of asking who their LI is. 😉)

We promise, we're going to dig deeper moving forward, we just wanted to start with the basics.

RSVPs will be accepted through 11:59PM (PST) on Thursday, 6/8. Everyone is welcome to participate, just make sure you tag us in your posts.

If you have any questions or issues, feel free to reach out to us. Our asks and inbox are open, we'd love to chat!

Tagging those who have asked. If you would like to be added to our tag list, let us know.

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... as well as some of the other amazing community blogs who have been so amazingly kind in signal boosting us to help get the word out there.

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[peonierose]

When will they arrive?

All my characters from my stories are fashionably late to events.

What will they drink?

Except for Luna Auclair - my OH OC - who drinks non-alcoholic drinks since she’s pregnant. Her favorite drink is anything fruity especially with guava 🩷

Everyone else drinks:

wine

beer

fruity cocktails

or even the harder stuff like whiskey and tequila.

I’m looking at you:

Gretel van Andresen (F!OC - NB)

Ethan Ramsey (M!MC -OH)

Sam Dalton (M!MC - TNA)

What kind of party-goer are they?

Are they a wallflower, or diving in and making friends with everyone?

Most of them keep to themselves and to their friend group.

Bryce makes friends pretty easily, as does Luna.

Hänsel and Gretel don’t really like small talk only if they really have to 😅

MC Mixer - Week 3

For week 3, it's all about your characters and their party habits!

When will they arrive? Are they the first ones there, or do they like to arrive fashionably late?

What are they drinking? What is their drink of choice?

What kind of party-goer are they? Are the a wallflower, or diving in and making friends with everyone?

Responses will be accepted through 11:59PM (PST) on Saturday 6/24.

You can participate by reblogging this post, or creating your own with your responses. Your submission can be in the form of test, inspo pics, moodboards, whatever you choose!

If you have any questions or issues, feel free to reach out to us. Our asks and inbox are open, we'd love to chat!

@aallotarenunelma @ao719 @aussiegurl1234 @cadybear420 @charlotteg234 @deb-1106 @emkay512 @karahalloway @mariemarieohcontrary @myautumnrose @noesapphic @ofmischiefandmedicine @peonierose @queenrileyrose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam

@choicesficwriterscreations @choicesmonthlychallenge @choicesflashfics @moodmusicmonday @choicesprompts @choicesholidays