#HE'S WEIRDER AND ANGRIER THAN USUAL BUT THAT'S OKAY

[radioactiveshitstorm]

remembering that post going around that started off by asking if lighthouses have wifi & evolved into someone telling a story about what their life was like tending a lighthouse, and being reminded that yes i even have a Vasya au for that!!

where, instead of fleeing to moscow at age 18 to live with his uncles, he runs to the coast instead! and somehow gains a job as a lighthouse keeper! goes through the training, by some miracle, and ends up on a small island in the black sea, the sole occupant of a dinky little old-fashioned lighthouse (well, sole occupant apart from rosie, she's there too)

and SOMEHOW. despite being HUGELY MENTALLY ILL and on NONE MEDICATIONS for it all. he THRIVES.

no people to stress him out, apart from whoever brings him supplies. a solid routine that removes decision anxiety. weird noises? oh it's just the sea or the wind or a hallucination, either way he just kinda exists with it. accumulates a collection of Funky Shit that washes up on the rocks, bones and shells, and twisted bits of metal that he imagines came from lost shipwrecks. he declines all offers of shore leave, forgets that the outside world exists, and lives his happy little life of tea and fried spam sandwiches and keeping the light spotless & functional in pleasant isolation

until an accident leaves his lower left leg mangled to the point of needing to be amputated. and he has no choice but to call for help. and he can't climb the lighthouse stairs any more, so he has to give it all up, even though it breaks his heart. and finally, finally, he contacts his uncles in moscow, explains everything that'd happened over the past nearly 3 years (oh yeah, that long, he kinda forgot time existed), and asks if maybe there's a place for him there.

so instead taking in an 18-year old who's deeply scared of life in general but nervously trying his best, they get a 21-year old who's so frustrated and angry at the world, barely holds a conversation on a good day, and staunchly refuses any kind of help or treatment because he managed before, he should be able to manage NOW

but things are different. vasya's used to the constant sound of the sea beating at the rocks, and moscow is somehow either too quiet and the wrong kind of noise, making it impossible to get any real quality sleep. he's gone from entirely self-reliant, to needing help just to get to the bathroom to take a piss, and he fucking hates it. for months he snaps at everyone and everything, in a constant state of exhausted frustration, slowly slipping further and further down with seemingly no end in sight.

until he goes along on a grocery trip one day. limps over to a bench on crutches, because he'd rather die than set foot inside the overload-factory masquerading as a supermarket, and plonks himself down to people-watch until whichever uncle he's with comes back. but then someone else sits next to him, and his first response is to glare out of the corner of his eye because holy shit, fuck off, is the resting bitch-face not enough of a warning

and he gets glared at right back. which is.. not what usually happens. but the guy sitting there does it anyway, then looks down at vasya's missing foot, then back up, and says "fucking sucks, doesn't it?". and that's when vasya realises that this new person is missing his entire left arm. what follows is a shockingly long conversation between them, even though it's 99% the stranger talking and 1% vasya making noncommital grunts, and ends in vasya having this guy's phone number.

"just in case. it's fucking rough learning how to exist again. i'm still shit at it, but maybe we can be shit at it together."

which winds up being a turning point. hours-long text chains about being so good at a job that it becomes your life, and then a freak accident rips it all away, and it seems like nobody fucking gets it even though more people get it than you realise. vasya gains a new friend, and at last he starts improving. apologising for previous actions. asking for help and accepting it. that one chance meeting changing his life for the better.

sure, he still misses the sea (the ambient coastline noises he listens to at night only partially help, although his sleep improves dramatically), so much so it fucking hurts sometimes. but maybe, just maybe, he can build a new life from the ashes of the old.

and that's pretty damn cool

[sscoutregimentss]

i know we as a collective society believe in gamer! eren supremacy. and yes, this is a good take. however, may i introduce to you: normie/fuckboy/jock eren with gamer/nerd gf. thoughts under the cut (safe for work, pg-13, also slight snk spoilers for season 3 and up!)

see, eren isnt necessarily a fuckboy. in fact, hes very loyal! he doesnt really think that way about any girls or guys except you. but hes popular romantically and had a reputation for sleeping around before he met you (not that theres anything wrong with that but ya know word travels fast across campus). plus, cmon the dude is in a frat, super hot and has a tongue piercing. he cant blame anyone for thinking he is a fuckboy bc he exudes the energy.

you are kind of the complete opposite. you dont really enjoy parties and you keep to yourself. you're a total wreck when it comes to flirting and your kinda oblivious to whenever people like you. you dont have many friends and are a bigger fan of 2d people than 3d.

either way eren finds you so so so cute. he first approached you at one of his frat parties. your roommates convinced you to come after she said that someone (read: connie) had a dance dance revolution mat, but you kinda just stuck around in a corner staring at your cup once you lost them. he looks you up and down-- your outfit was pretty cute, a short plaid orange pleated skirt, dress shirt, orange cardigan and black beret laying neatly upon your head. and your face... he couldn't help himself but try to talk to you. you were really anxious because wahhh scary sports guy you dont know but he was kinda instantly comforting? in a way? and he was freaking pretty. he looked like a final fantasy character--long haired characters were your type. the rest was kind of history.

a lot of people are shocked when they find out your dating bc you two are so different (some people are surprise eren “dates” at all) but no one dares question your relationship when they see how much eren dotes on you. he has so many polaroids of you in his wallet-- from the many arcade dates you bring him on where you decimate him at almost every game, you awkwardly posing in the hentai section of bookstores, or just candids of you being intensely focused on a puzzle in a game. whenever you guys go out to eat and somethings wrong with your meal, he'll send it back (in a polite way, of course, but hes still assertive.) or if you buy like a figurine and its misisng something hes marching up to the cashier stand for you. he always has an arm around your waist or is holding is hand in yours. sometimes you just cling onto his arm and rest your head on it (hes comfy!!!!! and you are always tired) your both pretty clingy, but you get kinda awkward when you two are around people you know so he just kinda subtly holds you as to not make a scene. its nice. hes comfy.

youve got dual monitors, a pc you made yourself, rgb keyboard, the whole nine yards. all your consoles are up to date and you keep a handheld system on you at all times. you spend most your weekends watching anime and movies and tv shows and your shelves are piled high with books and comic books. eren literally does not understand any of it. when you told him you built your pc he goes "you made all those microchippy things? youre soooo smart babe". when you talk about some of your weirder or more complicated animes he nods along but honestly he gets so lost ("so like, lemme get this straight, the kids dad's wife ate his mom?" "yeah but like she was turned into a titan so she didn't realllllly know it was the dads wife, but like she literally walks past this titan shifter so i think she knew." "thats crazy.") and he will never understand the point of otome games when hes literally right there. he actually has a really bad habit of getting jealous of characters you have a crush on but you just find it funny. sometimes he gets an ego boost when they look like him because even if they look like him he is actually real so they can suck it.

hes rlly supportive tho. erens a rlly passionate person and he loves you a lot so he pours a lot of passion into what you do. if you are into esports/fps games hes cheers you on all the time and does all the raging for you ("BABE THAT GUY IS STREAM SNIPING! HES STREAM SNIPING YOU HEY ASSHOLE STOP CHEATING OFF MY GIRLFRIEND" "eren he cant stream snipe me because i dont stream" "oh i thought that just meant cheating"/"WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL HER?" "eren its okay i can just report him" "NO NO LET ME AT HIM IF HE WANTS TO CALL YOU A BITCH I CAN CALL HIM MUCH WORSE" "um guys im gonna mute my mic for a second if you need me text chat") if youre into cozy games he likes to watch you play and gives you ideas on where to put things. like in minecraft he makes you put a second bed for him even though he doesnt play and he helps you name all your pets. you get a little less intense with cozy games so you sit on his lap and he lets his hair down puts his head on your shoulder and points at where you should place stuff. he still rages though? this is eren jaeger we are talking about. ("aw, she wont move to my island." "WHAT? who does that little ugly squirrel think she is? you think youre too good for MY y/n's island? i'll shave your unibrow off. then we'll see what island will want you" "leave hazel alone! shes cute!"/"dude that hamster guy with the glasses looks like armin" "graham? what? armin doesnt even wear glasses" "no no look at it more" "oh shit youre right") rpgs/otome games are kinda a wild card with how he acts. if its an otome game and the character looks like him he is more into helping you out because it reaffirms to him that you find him good looking but otherwise he is just sulking and calling them annoying ("princess y/n... i know im just a servant, but i want to be with you forever!" "pft. get a load of this guy. clingy much?" "its romantic! youre jealous.")

one of his favorite things to do with you is cuddle and watch anime. usually he lies his face on your thighs or chest while watching and you play with his hair or he holds you in his chest and you play with one of his hands while the other goes behind his head. he grew up on some of the classics like naruto sailor moon one piece pokemon and dbz but he never got super into it until he started dating you. you put him on to soooo many good shows (cartoons, anime, and live action) hes both a crier and he is a get-angrier(?). he gets mad on characters behalfs and you have to pause the show so he can rant about how annoying someone is or he feels so bad for someone so he has to take a minute because hes tearing up. he likes slice of life anime because the friendships <3 theyre so wholesome and they remind him of him armin and mikasa but he also likes shounen because it is entertaining to watch fights. he gets really into them actually. he also has this really bad habit of whenever there is a character with no parents or a dead mom he goes "oh same" or "welcome to the club buddy" under his breath. when theres a cute couple in an anime you both like guys get matching keychains of them unless one of them dies because he thinks its bad luck. his favorite animes are haikyuu, your lie in april and code geass.

you are equally supportive of erens volleyball career. you know all the rules because sports anime and you actually find yourself really liking it in 3d as well (it is lacking in bromance and screaming but you let it slide). you go to all his games and he always texts you before his practices. has a habit of kissing you before games and one day after he kisses you go "gg ez win" as a JOKE but then they like decimate their long time rival marley university and get into nationals (is that a thing for volleyball idk sports) so hes convinced its because you did your "gamer magic". now every time after getting his good luck kiss he interlocks your pinkies and you go "gg ez win" and he goes “yes.” because to this day he doesnt know what it means (he thinks googling it is like breaking the magic)

okay im gonna stop while im ahead BECAUSE I COULD TALK ABOUT THIS ALL DAY I MIGHT JUST GO AHEAD AND WRITE SOME ONESHOTS....

[cacoetheswriting]

unrequited love - spencer reid

Warnings: mild cursing, mentions of sexual assault, mentions of murder, usual criminal minds stuff tbh Word Count: 2.6k Requested By: anonymous : “can you write a spencer reid fic? something ansgsty maybe..”. 

--

No one understands why you do certain things even when you know you're never going to get anything back. - Shahul Hussain

QUANTICO, VIRGINA

The smell of freshly brewed coffee was probably your favourite, especially at ungodly hours of the morning. Closing your eyes for a brief moment you could feel a sort of calm and warmth surround you. The aroma slowly awoke your senses. Your lips touched the brim of the white mug in your hand and you took a slow sip.

“Good morning Y/L/N.” Derek Morgan appeared beside you. You looked up at him from your mug. “I brought you a coffee but I can see you couldn't wait.” He joked holding up a paper cup. “You know me Derek, I’ll take all the caffeine I can get.” You replied grabbing the cup from him. “Especially at four in the morning.” Derek smirked. “Yeah, they have to stop doing that to us.” 

With two coffees in hand, you made your way to the conference room. The rest of the team was already there. You sat at your usual seat, placing the coffees on the table in front of you, and turned your attention to the screen.

“Morning my lovelies.” Penelope began. “I would say good but there is nothing good about it given the case we have been asked to wor-” “Garcia.” Hotch interrupted briefly encouraging her to get to the point. “Right. Yes. No time to waste.” Penelope cleared her throat and fixed her glasses.

“Last night, twenty-five year old Millie Moore didn't return home after her shift at a bar in Riverside, California. Her body was discovered this morning in a dumpster behind her workplace.”

“The killer wanted her to be found.” JJ stated. There was a brief pause before Penelope continued. 

“The kidnapping and murder was linked to four other cases in the state of California spanning over the last month.” The images filled the screen causing you to clench your fists in disgust. 

The small rather insignificant action was observed by the brunette man sitting across from you. Unnoticed by everyone else at the table, Spencer’s eyes focused on your hands before travelling up to your face. He examined the look spread across your features, trying to figure out what was on your mind. 

“He definitely has a type.” Rossi noticed. “Any signs of sexual assault?” Derek questioned. “Yes, actually all of the victims displayed signs of uhm.” Garcia couldn’t bare to finish her sentence. 

“Given the small cooling off period between each victim, we need to assume the unsub has his next target already picked out.” Hotch stated. “Garcia can finish briefing us on the plane. Wheels up in twenty.”

The group nodded at each other and all got up from their seats - all but you. For some reason you couldn't avert your eyes from the gruesome images that filled the screen. 

“Y/N...” Spencer’s soft whisper brought you back to reality. He stood just a few steps away. You titled your head to look at him noticing a concerned look spread on his face. “They look like me Spence. The victims, they all look like me.” 

Spencer cleared his throat. “Humans in fact, aren’t that genetically diverse. So eventually, the numbers would dictate that certain features resembling yours and another persons will randomly combine.” He paused. 

“But that doesn’t mean they are an exact duplicate of you.” He smiled hoping you would smile back. “You’re right, sorry. It’s just a little weird.” “We’ve had weirder.” Spencer said as you got to your feet. The young doctor grabbed one of the coffees for you as you grabbed the other and followed you out to the pit. 

“You know caffeine increases alertness by blocking a brain chemical called adenosine that makes you feel tired, while at the same time triggering the release of adrenalin that’s known to increase energy.” Spencer stated placing the coffee cup he was holding on your desk. 

“If the amount of caffeine is high enough, these effects are stronger, resulting in caffeine-induced anxiety.” You finished the fact for him, slightly rolling your eyes. “Yes Spence, I know. You tell me this every time I have more than one mug in the morning.” The smart doctor shrugged smiling at you. He grabbed his go-bag from underneath his desk and waited for you. 

The friendship you shared with Spencer was an odd one. The two of you were quite close when you were still at the academy. He helped you study for all your tests and was always one to share tips on how to complete certain tasks. 

A couple of years go by without contact. At that point you were a field agent in New York, which is where you reconnected on a case. The spark was instant although neither of you wanted to admit it. This time Spencer stayed in touch. It was clear then that whatever undiscovered feelings he had for you back when you first met resurfaced - but you weren’t ready to explore whether you felt the same.

Next thing you know you were getting a call from Aaron Hotchner with an offer to join the BAU. Something, you later found out, Spencer had fought to get organised. 

It felt like you played with his heart. To an outsider it probably even looked like that - he fell in love with a girl and landed her a dream job in hopes that she would love him back. 

RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA

“What if we’re dealing with a disgruntled boyfriend or husband?” JJ posed the question. “He lost someone in his life that resembled the victims.” “Then why kill them?” Derek questioned. 

The team was gathered around a conference table brainstorming. Spencer was the only one not sitting down, not unusual for Dr. Reid. He was pacing around the bullpen talking on the phone, probably with Penelope. 

Your eyes lingered on the back of his head for a moment through the glass window. Something Derek noticed immediately. “Where’s your head at Y/L/N?” You turned your attention to the rest of the team. “What if JJ is right in a way? But rather than a significant other, what if the unsub was rejected by these women or someone who looks like them?” 

Derek nodded his head in understanding. Your eyes scanned the team waiting for anyone sitting at the table to suggest something else. It was Rossi who opened his mouth next however whatever was on his mind was interrupted by Spencer storming into the room.

“Where’s your mind at pretty boy?” Derek questioned leaning back in his chair. “I spoke with Garcia. All of the victims had social media accounts and tagged-” He approached the map pinned to one of the boards. “- three different spots in this location before they were murdered.” With a red pen, Spencer circled one area on the map. 

“The hunting ground.” Rossi stated and everyone else nodded.

“Let’s split up.” Hotch began. “Reid, go with Y/L/N. Derek and Rossi, and JJ you’re with me. I’ll get Garcia to send us the exact addresses, hopefully one of these places will bring us a step closer to catching the unsub.” 

The team got to their feet and one by one left the conference room, leaving you alone with Spencer. “Ready partner?” He asked smiling at you. “Always.” 

It didn't take long to get there, traffic was unusually quiet for California. Plus whenever you’re with Spencer the conversation flow makes the moments pass by quickly - you never run out of things to talk about.

“Looks closed.” You said getting out of the car, shutting the door behind you. “Strange, it’s the middle of the day.” Spencer noted as he walked around the hood. The two of you glanced at each other before moving forward towards the entrance of the coffee shop.

The door wasn't locked so you made your way inside. A small ‘ding’ from the bell above your heads signalised you have entered the premises. An eerie feeling came over you. 

The lights were switched off. The chairs were placed neatly on the tables. Menus were carefully stacked beside the register, sugar bowls placed in a row along the countertop. A wet floor sign was placed in the middle of the room. You walked around it carefully, that’s when you noticed the strong smell. 

“Is that?” You asked looking at Spencer. “It smells like bleach.” The young doctor stated back, his hand travelled to his gun. Slowly, with one hand on your weapon holster, you made your way around the countertop. That’s when you felt someone grab you from behind. A shriek escaped your mouth getting Spencer’s attention. 

The unknown male held your arms behind your back as he led you back towards the middle of the coffee shop - using you as a human shield. He kicked over the yellow sign and stopped. You could feel his hot breath against your skin, it made you sick. “Let her go.” Spencer stated sternly, pointing his gun.

“I’m going to walk out of here.” The male said. “And you’re going to let me.” You watched Spencer shake his head. “I can’t let you do that.” His response wasn't what the man wanted to hear. Frustrated, he drew your weapon from the holster and placed it to your temple causing the air to catch in your throat.

“How about now?” The man sounded angrier. He could sense your fear, just like you could sense Spencer’s. The young doctor met your gaze briefly before looking back at the man holding you. 

“What’s your name?” Spencer asked. The man scoffed. “I’m not telling you shit!” “Tell me your name and maybe we can sort something out.” Spencer said calmly, his gun still pointing in your direction.

There was a brief moment of heavy silence before the man snarled: “You first.”

“My name is Dr. Spencer Reid and the woman you are now holding at gunpoint, that’s Agent Y/N Y/L/N.” You could feel the man shift, as if he was trying to get a better look at you before he turned his attention to Spencer again. “Theo.” He said simply. 

“Nice to meet you Theo. How old are you Theo?” “What’s that got to do with anything?!” 

Your whole body was shaking at this point. 

“O-okay Theo. Tell me this instead, why did you kill all of those women?” “I didn’t hurt anyone!” Theo snapped. “Only a guilty man would hold a federal agent at gunpoint.” Spencer pointed out. “Shut up!” Theo lowered the gun from your temple and pointed it at Spencer. A lone tear escaped the corner of your eye. 

“Why did you kill them Theo?” Spencer asked again. 

“They deserved it.” Theo answered after a brief moment of silence. “They hurt me!” “How did they hurt you Theo?” The man’s grip around you tightened. “They just hurt me!” He screamed. “Now let me go or I swear, she’s next!” The gun was back at your temple. 

Spencer met your scared gaze. The look in his eye was almost as if to say everything was going to be okay, that he was going to get you out of this. You tried to smile. You even mouthed “It’s okay.” at which Spencer’s jaw locked - he wasn’t going to lose you, not like this. 

“Those women hurt you Theo? I know exactly what that feels like.” Spencer said calmly. “Being hurt by someone you love.” You could feel Theo nod against your head. His grip loosened slightly.  

“Do you know what unrequited love is Theo?” Spencer asked and without waiting for a response continued. “It’s love not reciprocated or returned. It’s when you love someone and they don't love you back, they don't acknowledge your love.” Spencer stated. At this point you were crying. Lone droplets escaped your eyes and traced down your cheeks. 

“That’s how those women made you feel, right? As if you weren’t worthy to love them.” Spencer said. You could feel the hurt in his voice.

“They didn't see me.” Theo said, his voice shaky. “They didn't care!” He exclaimed taking a step forward. In doing so, his grip around you loosened completely and you were able to turn around while grabbing his arm that was holding the gun.

Theo kneed you in the stomach causing you to fall back a little. When you looked up he had the gun pointed at you. 

“If you shoot her, I shoot you.” Spencer said sternly, his weapon once again drawn and pointed at the unsub. Theo scoffed. “She's the one that hurt you, isn't she?” Spencer didn't respond. “I figure I’d be doing you a favour then.” 

The sound of the gun being cocked caused your heart to stop. Yet Spencer was quicker. He fired one shot, hitting Theo in the shoulder. This enabled you to overpower the unsub and disarm him.

“Call for backup.” The young doctor said kneeling down beside you. “Spence-” “Call for backup.” He repeated without looking at you. Without saying another word, that’s exactly what you did. 

BAU Jet

The sound of silence filled the plane. Everyone was exhausted to say the least, and catching up on necessary sleep. Yet every time you closed your eyes you felt uncomfortable. Spencer’s words from the coffeeshop kept ringing in your ears, the broken look on his face overwhelmed your brain. 

Slowly, you got to your feet and walked down the jet. The young doctor was sitting alone at the back of the aircraft, head buried in a book. 

“Hey.” You whispered loud enough to get his attention. His head popped up, his eyes met yours. “Hi.” 

“Mind if I sit down?” You asked politely pointing to the empty seat. “Not at all. Make yourself comfortable.” He placed the book down as you made yourself comfortable. 

“Can’t sleep?” “I could ask you the same thing.” Spencer replied. “Well, having a gun pointed to your head isn’t exactly dreaming material.” You breathed with a soft smile. Spencer nodded his head.

There was a brief moment of silence.

“I wanted to thank you.” You said. “For saving my life.” “I was just doing my job.” Spencer replied. “Right.” You sighed and leaned your head back on the chair, breaking eye contact.

“Y/N-” “I’m sorry Spencer.” You interrupted. Confused, the young doctor asked: “Why are you apologising?” “For hurting you.” Slowly, you tilted your head to once again look at the brown haired man. His head was down, his fingers playing with the hem of his shirt.

“I’m sorry for making you feel as if you weren't worthy.” “I just said that to get the unsub’s attention. I said that so he would let you go.” “We both know that's not true Spencer.” 

The young doctor sighed. “I don't know what you want me to say Y/N.” He whispered while turning his head in your direction. “You don't need to say anything.” 

Spencer lifted his hand and slowly using one finger placed a loose strand of your hair behind your ear, his thumb brushing against your cheek as he did. A shiver ran down your spine at the touch. 

“I’ve loved you for as long as I can remember.” Spencer said, his hand now holding your face. “However, you made it obvious you don’t feel that way about me so I’ve done my best to just be your friend.” He sighed. “Y/N it’s getting really hard to just be your friend.”

He let his hand fall before shifting his body weight away from you. He leaned his head against the aircraft and looked out the window. 

Tears formed in your eyes. “Spence.” You whispered but he didn't respond. Instead, the young doctor closed his eyes.

You knew better than to keep pushing. With your fingers, you wiped the tears from your face and made yourself comfortable before also closing your eyes. 

Hoping you’d drift asleep quickly your mind wondered. Tomorrow, you would talk to him again tomorrow and everything would be just fine. Right?

Never pretend to a love which you do not actually feel, for love is not ours to command. - Alan Watts

--

masterlist

[whereistheonepiece]

♥ If it strikes your interest: Sanji is very affectionate when he's drunk

Send me writing prompts. Status: Accepting.

Note: This is inspired by @lesbian-space-ranger Also I don’t know if you saw, but this is the last prompt I did. I think you’ll like it if you haven’t seen it.

I worked very hard to get into the proper headspace to write this.

-

Zoro and Sanji were not what one would consider an affectionate couple–at least not in the beginning and not when other people were around to see. This in part was because Zoro didn’t understand the incessant need some couples had to involve the public in something that was supposed to be private. This wasn’t to say that he was against hand holding or light kisses in public settings, but Zoro wasn’t in the habit of making anyone else privy to the fact that Sanji’s deft fingers in his hair reduced him from snarling tiger on the battlefield to a purring lap cat–in the beginning, that is. Nowadays, he didn’t care who saw when he settled in for a nap on Sanji’s lap, lulled to sleep by the soothing sensation of Sanji playing with his hair and lightly scratching his scalp.

And then there was Sanji, the other half of the equation. “It’s not that I’m ashamed,” Sanji had told him once when Zoro had approached him to ask him if he was having second thoughts about their relationship. “I just like that this is just between us right now. I like having this little secret with you.”

And Zoro had respected that, had understood that line of reasoning. He waited and tried to remain discreet until Sanji was ready to go public–and then he did what he could to assuage Sanji’s wounded pride in the privacy of the kitchen while the cook ranted about how none of the crew had been surprised, because hadn’t Sanji and Zoro been careful? 

Zoro remembered trying at first to stifle his amusement, but Sanji, in his anger, reminded Zoro of an angry kitten Zoro had come across once. The thing could fit in the palm of his hand, and it had been startled by Zoro, and it had done its best to appear big and intimidating, arched back, tiny lips pulled back in a snarl. It had only made Sanji angrier when Zoro had started laughing, and Zoro had to fend off Sanji’s furious kicks, grinning all the while as his kitten bared his fangs at him.

Zoro looked at Sanji from across the table he and the rest of the crew occupied in the tavern, smiling to himself over the rim of his tankard as he remembered how things had been so long ago. These days they were more open with their affection for each other, but usually that stayed on the comfort of the ship or at the end of the battle, when their blood still raced and unspent energy found its outlet through heavy, aggressive kissing and gripping, pulling hands.

Zoro kept his gaze on Sanji, watched the love cook flirting with Nami, Robin, and the two friends they’d made since entering the tavern. Zoro watched the way Nami and Robin exchanged knowing glances with each other as Sanji tried to ingratiate himself with the two women seated across from them, the two female members of the Straw Hat pirates already three steps ahead of Sanji, as always. 

Robin, cheek cradled in her hand, her eyes sparkling with amusement, cast a glance Zoro’s way, silently checking in with him without needing to say a word. Zoro nodded at her and tipped his tankard in her direction before finishing off his drink. He then pushed himself up out of his seat, telling the table he’d take the next round, feeling generous, earning raucous cheers from his inebriated crewmates.

Sanji noticed Zoro as he passed by, grinning at him and throwing an arm around his neck. “Zorooo,” he drawled, slightly stumbling as he followed him to the bar, leaving all four ladies behind. Zoro raised an eyebrow, putting a steadying hand on the small of Sanji’s back just in case it was needed.

“Hi, Cook,” Zoro said, raising his free hand to get the bartender’s attention. “You having fun?” He glanced over his shoulder and saw the women chattering away, the both of them already forgotten.

“Yes,” Sanji said, with the special kind of happiness that only came to small children and the drunk. “But the important question is: are you having fun, Marimo?”

Zoro smirked and looked at Sanji, who still had his arm around his neck, as he put in his order for the next round. “Yes, Cook,” he said. “There’s alcohol and all our friends are here. Course I’m having fun.”

“Good,” Sanji said, nodding with as much solemnity as he could muster in his current state. “It’s good to have fun.”

Zoro chuckled once, shaking his head. Sanji had hardly anything to drink and already he was tipsy. “Should I order you another drink or are you stopping here for the night?”

“No.”

“No, what?” Zoro asked. The bartender looked their way and sent Zoro a brief nod as he worked on drinks for a different set of customers.

“No, I’m not stopping.”

“All right.”

“‘Cause I’m gonna keep up with you tonight.”

Zoro looked at Sanji skeptically, raising an eyebrow. “Cook, you’ve probably had less to drink than me and you’re already ahead of me.” Zoro at most had a nice buzz going on and Sanji already looked sleepy.

“Don’t care,” Sanji said, resting his head against Zoro’s with a sigh. “Maybe I’ll stop and wait for you to catch up.” He hummed contentedly, his fingers snaking up the side of Zoro’s head and petting Zoro’s hair like he would a small animal. “Yer hair’s soft...”

Zoro blinked. The cook was going to have a killer hangover in the morning if he truly intended on drinking like Zoro, and he was always a complete bitch in the morning after as he nursed his headache, but Sanji was an adult and could make his own decisions–no matter how poorly thought out they were. “Don’t come crying to me when your head hurts tomorrow,” he said before placing his order. “You’ll get no sympathy.”

“Cross my heart, hope to die, Marimo.”

-

Sanji’s plans to drink as much as Zoro had failed. Nami was the only one on the ship who could keep up with Zoro–and maybe even outpace him–and she’d left with the rest of the others a while ago. Sanji’s efforts had been brave–and stupid–but they’d been in vain. The cook slumped over the table with a sigh, pushing his tankard away in defeat while Zoro watched him over the rim of his, small smirk on his lips.

“Okay,” Sanji said, pushing his seat out, probably ready to leave. “I’ve had enough.”

“See you on the ship,” Zoro mumbled, too busy staring into the amber depths of his drink to notice Sanji walking over to him until the cook had plopped himself in Zoro’s lap, straddling his thighs. He looked up at Sanji. “Hello–” he said before he was cut short by Sanji wrapping all four of his limbs around Zoro’s torso and burying his face in Zoro’s neck.

Zoro blinked, glancing around to see if anyone had taken notice. Most everyone had left at this point and those that had remained were too drunk to notice or care. He was the only witness to Sanji’s shameless clinging. He wished he could take a picture of this moment. Zoro let him be, taking his time with his drink, the alcohol and Sanji’s soft snoring his only company.

When he was ready for what would be his last drink, Zoro stood up and was shocked to find that Sanji’s grip hadn’t lessened, even in sleep, even as Zoro moved. Zoro stared at Sanji, his shock dulled by the alcohol. A crossbreed of a snort and a snicker emanated from his nose and made his nasal passages sore as he took in the absurdity of the situation.

Zoro sighed. “Cook,” he said, trying to push down on Sanji’s thighs. They wouldn’t budge. He tried again, this time with more force, and was met with the same resistance. “Cook. Let go.”

Sanji mumbled something in his sleep.

Zoro shook his head. To think that all of the previous moments he’d experienced in his life had built up to form this one. The absurdity of it all...

Zoro continued to try to pry Sanji off him until it finally sunk in that the only way he’d be free of Sanji’s python grip was to enact serious injury on the cook, so he relented with a long, tired sigh. “This is my life,” Zoro muttered to himself, still in disbelief as he turned around slowly and Sanji continued to cling to him. Zoro tiredly ruffled Sanji’s blond hair as he approached to pay his tab, the final drink a no-go. “Guess we’re going home, Cook.”

The bartender did little more than raise his eyebrow, having probably seen weirder. Zoro flashed the man a sardonic grin. “Gotta take my child home,” Zoro said wryly as he paid for the night.

He heard the bartender bark out a laugh as he turned and left.

He found Brook waiting for him outside, staring up at the full moon. The skeleton turned his skull, saying “Ah, Zoro-san, the others–” Brook stopped in his tracks when he saw Zoro staring at him blandly, Sanji clinging to his torso like a young koala did to its mother.

“Shhhh,” Zoro whispered loudly, finger held to his lips. “The baby is sleeping.”

Brook hesitated, tilting his skull to the side. “I was trying to say that the others thought it prudent that I escort you back to the ship.”

Zoro was already trudging past Brook. “Of course they did,” he said dully. “Assholes.”

Brook took two large steps to catch up. “Ah, Zoro-san?” he asked, concern in his voice as he grabbed Zoro by the shoulder and steered him in the right direction. “May I ask why–”

“Why I have a twenty-one year old man hanging off me?” Zoro asked, looking up into Brook’s skeletal face. “Dumbass wanted to drink with me.”

Brook laughed quietly. “I see. And have you tried–”

“Yes, Brook,” Zoro interrupted, “I tried getting him off of me. Asshole’s got legs of steel.”

“Hm. I must say, it’s interesting to see the two of you like this,” Brook observed.

“Like what?” Zoro asked, keeping his attention on the cobblestones in front of him.

“So open with each other out in public,” Brook explained. “You’re usually more reserved than other young couples your age.”

Zoro shrugged. “It is what it is.”

“Indeed,” Brook agreed. He paused for a moment before continuing. “And it’s interesting to see Sanji-san so...”

“Clingy?”

“Vulnerable,” Brook clarified.

That brought a tired smile to Zoro’s lips. He looked at Sanji, who was still snoring away on his shoulder, and he dropped his hand onto the top of Sanji’s head, ruffling his hair softly. “He’s gonna hate you for seeing him like this,” Zoro murmured, looking ahead and seeing Sunny in the distance.

“It is a rather undignified position,” Brook agreed, laughing softly.

Zoro groaned as they drew closer to the ship.

“Zoro-san? What’s wrong?”

Zoro stared up at Sunny. He then looked up at Brook. “I’m just realizing what a pain in the ass it’s going to be getting him up there.”

Brook laughed melodically while Zoro struggled to wake Sanji.

“Cook.”

Silence.

“Cook, wake up. We’re here.”

“Mmmm...”

“COOK!”

“Nooooo...” Sanji whined, nuzzling the front of Zoro’s shirt.

“AT LEAST MOVE ONTO MY BACK, YOU CLINGY BASTARD!”

“Nooo, I’m comfy...”

“ASSHOLE!”

Brook laughed. “Good night, Zoro-san,” he said as he made his way onto the ship.

“WHAT? BROOK? BROOK, GET BACK HERE! BROOK, COME BACK AND HELP ME!”

But Brook was already gone, leaving a drunk, angry, tired Zoro behind with a drunk, whiny, clingy Sanji who refused to let go. Zoro yelled up at the sky in frustration, the lion head on the front of the ship and the moon silent, indifferent witnesses to his troubles.

-

Note: Okay, I’m take nap. You guys can send more prompts if you so desire. I’ll even do stuff for other ships (if you know that I like them).

[bleachanimefan1]

Oblitus Ch.25

Sugar Pie Honey Bunch

42 days left until Extermination...

"Hello, Charlotte," Charlie's ex boyfriend said, as he stood in front of the group as they walked inside the hotel's lobby. 

"S-Seviathian?" Charlie questioned still in shock to see him. "Why are you here?"

 Seviathan advanced closer only to be stopped by Vaggie, who continued pointing her spear at him. "I saw the radio demon's little show, as did everybody." He answered. "You're still doing this ridiculous redemption nonsense?" 

Charlie frowned, looking at him. "It's not nonsense! I believe that it can really happen!" and pointed at Niffty. "She proves it!"

"One sinner is not enough to prove anything,"

"Well, how about these two!?" The princess gestured towards Angel and Husk. "They're still a work in progress but they're getting there! Pretty soon they'll be redeemed like Niffty!" Seviathan laughed.

"I see that you haven't changed a bit," Charlie said with arms crossed. "You're still the same egotistical, pompous jerk!"

Seviathan stopped as he tried to catch his breath. He smiled. "And your still the same sweet, naive, daddy's little apple," However, the prince paused for a moment, thinking about something then he looked back towards Charlie.  "Charlie, please, come back to me. I'm sorry-" 

 "Don't!" Charlie immediately cut the prince off. She glared as she narrowed her eyes at Seviathian. "You made it perfectly clear that you never wanted to be with me." She hissed. "Even your sister said so and she doesn't even like me. Besides, I'm already with someone." Her eyes began to grow into slits, growling. "Now, I want you to leave." Seviathan down and picked up the bouquet of flowers holding it out towards her. 

 "At the very least think it over-" Charlie grabbed them from him and was now pushing the prince out of the lobby then shoved him out the door.

"It's over, Seviathan." She replied then slammed the door hard right in his face.

40 days left until Extermination...

Two days have passed since the incident with Niffy's and Charlie's ex. In the bathroom, Anna was standing in front of the mirror brushing her teeth. However, a strange pain made her stop. She looked into the mirror and opened her mouth only for a tooth to fall out as it landed into the sink. Her eyes widened in shock as she covered her mouth then looked back into the mirror. In place of one of her tooth was a sharp razor like tooth like most demons she had seen. Great, now she's losing her teeth! What more is she going to lose?! 

Anna sighed and walked out of the bathroom heading down to the lobby seeing Charlie and Vaggie. Maybe it was just her imagination, but Anna had noticed that Charlie has been acting strangely, well stranger than normally.

"Uh, hun? I thought you were going to throw those flowers away?" Vaggie asked. Right in the lobby, there was the bouquet of flowers sitting in a vase that was placed on a stand.

 "Well, I thought they would help liven up the room a little!" Charlie explained. She had a strange look in her eyes.  "It was very thoughtful of Seviathan to do. I'll have to thank him later. Better yet, I'll call him now, and met him in person!"

Soon after, Alastor, Baxter and Niffty walked over towards the group. 

"How's it going ladies!" Alastor greeted them. 

"Okay, I guess?" Anna answered unsure. 

"What do you mean?" Niffty asked.

Anna glanced over at the princess seeing her now humming as Veggie tried to talk to her to get her attention, but it wasn't working. Anna whispered gesturing over to the princess.

"Charlie's freaking me out. She's acting weird, well weirder than she usually is! She's ignoring Vaggie!"

Niffty, Baxter and Alastor looked over to the two, confirming what Anna had just told them. Baxter walked over to the the two 

"Uh, may I see those flowers?" He asked. Charlie smiled taking the bouquet out showing it to the scientist. 

"I'd love to! Don't you think it was very sweet of Seviathan to do?!" Baxter carefully looked at the flowers, examining them.

"These roses are laced with an aphrodisiac." He replied.

"What?!" Everyone exclaimed. 

"It defiantly explains why she is acting like this." Alastor replied, laughing, a little amused.

"This isn't funny!" the moth demon shouted angrily

"She must have inhaled some of it." Baxter answered. 

"Well, can't you come up with an antidote?!" Vaggie shouted.

"I can but it'll take some time. In the meantime, keep her locked up in her room, for everyone's safety." Baxter replied.

"I'll take her to her room." Alastor said.

"I'm coming too."

"Oh, Vagatha, do you trust me so little?" Alastor teased, batting his eyes over-dramatically.

"Yes," Vaggie replied.

As the two carried Charlie up to her room, the princess started to get a little handsy with Alastor, much to his displeasure. As she hate to admit it, Vaggie was enjoying the show, watching the two, especially seeing Alastor trying to keep the princess hands from touching him. As he plopped her on the bed, Charlie was trying to pull on the belt of Alastor's pants trying to get it off. Alastor pushed them away. Veggie laughed. Alastor turned to her with a strained grin on his face.

"Well, I'm glad your enjoying the show. How about a little help if don't mind?!" 

"OOh, Alastor.~"

The two tensed as they heard Charlie moaned and turned back to see Charlie began to slowly strip out of of her clothes revealing a black laced bra and underwear. Alastor stood in place with a frozen smile on his face. Vaggie was now laughing on the floor while she gripped the frame of the door.

"That's it! I'm out!" Alastor shouted, quickly running out of the room. 

"Okay, I'll watch over her until Baxter comes up with an antidote." Vaggie called out.

Soon after, the scientist had managed to make the antidote and gave it to Charlie. As it began to take effect, everyone gathered around, waiting.

Charlie blinked, confused, looking around. "What happened?"

"Your ex basically gave you an lust induced bouquet trying to make you fall back in love with him." Anna explained.

Charlie blinked in shock trying to process what she had heard.  She couldn't believe that her ex would stoop this low. "Not cool." 

"Well, at least we got it fixed before you did any serious damage," Baxter said. 

Vaggie laughed. "Yeah, like trying to have sex with the radio demon." Anna's eyes widen while Alastor narrowed his eyes and glared dangerously at the moth demon.

Charlie eyes widened looking horrified at Alastor. "I did what?!" She exclaimed. "Al, I'm so sorry! You know that I would never to anything like that, especially touch you without your permission!"

"Just keep six feet away from me." Alastor replied. 

In Lucifer's office, the fallen angel was sitting up in the bed as he began to straighten his shirt and was now fixing his tie. Lilith was lying beside him. He turned to her with a lustful look in his eyes while she did the same. Lilith stretched getting more comfortable as the sheets fell off her revealing herself. She rolled and laid on her side.

"Luci, last night, you were...unhinged. You were like some desperate howling demon, you frightened me." She smiled seductively. "Do it again." Lucifer wanted so much to take of his clothes and pounce on the bed and take her again, right then and there, his phone ringed.

"I'd love to, but, duty calls." He replied. He opened his phone thinking that it was one of his business partners only to see a photo of Niffty that Charlie had sent to him with the rest above it saying in big hold letters and rainbow colors "IT WORKS! WE DID IT!"

Lucifer frowned. This was not good, not good at all. Lilith leaned over him resting her chin on his shoulder. 

"It that from Charlotte?" She asked as she smiled.

"Yes, apparently her silly redemption plan worked. One of her clients has redeemed themselves."

"That's...wonderful? But, you don't look happy." Lilith answered seeing her husband's frown. "Our daughter's finally found her place and following her dreams." 

"Of course I'm not! She's meddling in things she shouldn't! It's a matter of time before HE finds out, if he hadn't already! Then we're all going to be in great danger!" Then Anna appeared in the fallen angel's mind as he grew angrier. This was all her fault!

Lucifer began to leave.

"Where are you going, darling?" Lilith called out.

"I'm going to handle this. Just get some rest." 

"Okay, just don't do anything drastic." Lilith replied.

Not too far off in the city, there was a big office building that said I.M.P. Inside were three imps, two males and one female, and a girl hellhound who was messing and scrolling through her phone.

An imp with with long curved horns, called Blitzo, saw a white limo pull into the parking lot, parking it, and Lucifer stepped out.

"Holy shit! It's the king!" He exclaimed. "Everyone don't fuck this up!"

"The king?" the imp with hair, known as Moxie, pondered, confused. "Why is he here?"

"Who fucking cares?" The hellhound, who was called loona, answered still looking at her phone, leaning back in the chair.

"Hello boys!" Lucifer called out walking into the office.

"What brings you I.M.P.?" The imp known as Millie, asked.

"I have a job for you guys. I would like to hire your services," Lucifer said.

Blitzo slammed his hands on the desk. "Done!" He shouted.  "So who's the loser that we have to kill?"

Lucifer pulled out a photo of Anna in his coat pocket showing it to them. "This one, here," he said. "She is staying at my daughter's hotel."

"I hate to break to ya. But, we only kill living clients from the living world, not some random sinner." Blitzo answered.

Lucifer laughed. "That is where you are wrong. She is still alive." 

"What?" All four exclaimed.

"Are you kidding me? That bitch won't last five seconds!" Blitzo declared.

Lucifer made a wicked smile. "So, i assume that we have an agreement, hmm?"

 "It's a done deal!" Blitzo answered shaking the king's hand. "Now about our payment?"

 "Here you go," Lucifer dropped a wad of cash into the imp's hands. "You'll get the other half once you finished the job. "

[spiideygeek]

brad davis said hello! | solo

who: pete, harry, everyone in midtown high and queens lol.

what: just an overview.

where: queens, ny.

when: jan/feb 2021.

FRIDAY 15 JANUARY, 2021.

It was time for Peter’s favourite and most hated place on earth: school.

Pushing himself through the worn doors of Midtown High, it took some time for Peter to notice people were pointing and whispering at him. They were staring. But... not in a bad way. In shock, surprise at how he was suddenly way more interesting to look at. Seeing some girls giggle awkwardly as he walked by, Peter gave them a shy smile but was confused; how had this happened?

Opening up his locker carefully, he felt hands on his shoulders and a happy “Pete!” to follow. Harry Osborn. His oldest and closest friend. The rich friend, the kind friend, the one that had always had his back and stood by him against the taunts and teases of high school drama. “Woah, what happened to you?!” Harry took a step back, admiring how muscular his friend suddenly, how he even seemed... taller.

Biting his lip, Pete used the same lie. “I’ve been working out.” His friend stared in silence before bursting out into loud laughter. “Working out? That’s funny, Parker, I’ve missed your jokes -- hey, how did the internship go yesterday?” He asked, smacking Pete gently on the shoulder as he closed his locker. “Dad was really happy you accepted it.” Smiling as they walked down the corridor, Peter only shook his head.

“Try doing an internship with Gwen Stacy.”

“You’re partnered with Gwen?” Harry only laughed more, “Dude, this is what happens when you’re both two giant nerds; there’s no one else to put you with. As if your life couldn’t get any weirder.”

Peter only nodded, staring ahead. “You have no idea.” 

THAT EVENING.

So he couldn’t find the spiders, but that was okay! Peter had concluded that his theories on the sudden changes in his life all began with that radioactive spider he’d seen at ESU laboratories all those days ago. Whilst he initially thought it was just a harmless bug, he’d suddenly felt filled with dread at how he didn’t realise; being bitten by a bug in a room full of genetically engineered spiders... meant they could be only one culprit.

But what did it all mean? He was taller, had muscules and was no longer blind. There didn’t seem to be anything wrong with that, no? But there were other things. Strange things. Everything in the world felt... slower. Louder, clearer. He could sense... everything before it was happening. He could stop everything from happening. Every time he dropped his phone, he caught it. Every time someone on the street was about to bump right into him, he avoided any collision with such ease. Every time he stumbled over his own feet... he didn’t. His posture was better, he moved more quickly, agile, smoothly. And why did everything keep sticking to his hands?!

Usually, Fridays were reserved for Harry coming over to Pete’s for the night. Or vice versa. But today, the teenager had cancelled, citing too much homework to catch up on as his excuse. Instead, Peter found himself in the many alleyways of Queens, pacing back and forth as he figured out what to do. Where to start. Where did you start with a thing like this?

“Think... if it was the spider, what can spiders... do.” He mumbled, frowning in thought. Glancing at his hands, he recalled how everything kept sticking to his hands. And spiders... they stuck to walls. Raising an eyebrow, he glanced to a red brick wall to his left, and then to the tips of his fingers. “... Maybe if I..” Reaching forward, he pressed his hand against the brick. It stuck. “Huh.”

Then he pressed the other one. “Spiders crawl, Pete... they don’t just stand there...” Hesitating, he prayed he didn’t look stupid and pressed his foot on the wall. Then the other. And sure enough. He didn’t fall. “Woah!” He gasped, glancing around to make sure no one was watching. Now, where? “Up.” He mumbled, eyes slowly glancing to the top of the building. Sighing slowly, he began to crawl up the wall, slowly, but excitedly, in awe of how he wasn’t even falling.”Holy sh-... this is amazing.” He whispered, continuing to climb up until he reached the top.

“Woah, this is... higher than I imagined.” Pete wasn’t scared of heights but even this was pushing it a little. Moving to his feet, he took in the view of the city for a moment, not even touching the limits of the skyscrapers yet. He was hardly touching the surface. Glancing behind him, he realised what he had just done. “Okay!... Not strange at all...” What else did Spiders do? Frowning, he firmly pressed his feet into the ground, bouncing on the soles of his feet for a while, when suddenly --

He went flying. 

Residents of Queens reported hearing a loud, high pitch scream and a black dot moving through the sky on social media that night. That black dot and scream were Peter Parker. Jumping from one building to the other. With lots of cussing escaping his lips. Very scary. “OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD!” He was screaming at the top of his lungs, arms flailing about as he realised what he was doing. Looking past the fears, this... was incredible. 

Then he fell flat on his face onto the roof of the next building.

“Spiders can jump... Noted.” He groaned, lifting his head and picking the bits of gravel off that were stuck to his face. His legs felt like jelly but... that was amazing. Glancing up at the sky, he rubbed his eye and allowed himself a moment to take in what just happened, breathing heavily as his shock turned to a grin. Carefully rising to his feet, things started to make a little more sense. Could he swing? Did he have webs?... Could he grow more arms and legs? That one didn’t sound so fun. 

He could do backflips, though! When the hell was that a thing? “That...was incredible!” He cried in excitement considering Peter Parker was the opposite of athletic and had never been able to anything like that. In joy, the boy raised his arms above him in triumph but as he did something odd happened; a strange liquid shot right out from his wrists, flying into the sky. “Woah!” He stumbled back, watching it fly into the distance. Webbing! It had to be webbing! He wanted to do that again. He shot his arm up, but nothing.

“Aw, come on!”

Peter had a lot of practice to do.

MONDAY 18TH JANUARY, 2021.

School went as it always did. Loads of math, loads of history and not enough lunch. Harry seemed fascinated the entire time with just how different his friend looked, noticing everything from the lack of acne to the no glasses... he looked like a completely different person. In all honesty, Peter was dying for the school day to end; ever since he had figured out what he could do, all he wanted to do... was explore. Climb a little higher, swing a little faster. Yes, he could swing now. 

As the pair of friends left the building for a day, Pete and Harry had intentions of catching the all too slow school bus back to Pete’s house. Harry always preferred it there. Yet as they walked down the main path, their exit was suddenly blocked by an intruder. Flash Thompson.

“Hey, Parker.” The bully wore that same malicious grin he always did. Pete thought he looked like a bulldog more than anything else. “Look at you, you don’t look a third-grader anymore. I’d say maybe fifth now.” He pulled at Peter’s sweater, noticing how tall he suddenly seemed as well. Beside him stood a group of students huddled around the table, most of whom laughed. Even with muscles, he couldn’t escape the wrath of Flash.

“That’s funny, Flash.” Peter sighed, trying to move out of his way, “Still doing third-grade math work?” The people laughed again and Flash’s grin fell into a glare. Grabbing Pete by the shoulder, he shoved him onto the bench and moved to sit opposite him. Harry moved to stand behind his friend, frowning in confusion. 

“Arm wrestling,” someone else said, gesturing to the table, “Cash if you win, twenty bucks. But no one’s beaten Flash.” 

Arm wrestling?! The bully smirked darkly at Peter who’s eyes widened in horror. He was no arm wrestler and he was definitely not as strong as Flash. The dude was a rock, he’d squish him like a bug in seconds! Pete let out nervous stammers, trying to move away, but it was too late; the bully had grabbed his arm and centred it on the table, waiting to start. “I’m gonna enjoy this.”

Peter gulped loudly, turning to Harry who said, “Ignore him, Pete.” in words of confidence. Though... his face didn’t look very confident. Hearing the students countdown from three to one, Pete braced himself for Flash to practically rip his whole arm, eyes squinting in fear and --

Nothing happened.

The bully’s face warped instantly from a smug demeanour to confusion. No matter how hard he pushed, Parker’s arm didn’t move an inch, and he wasn’t even trying to fight! And Pete didn’t feel a thing! Not an ounce of pain considering how hard the other male was trying. The now growing crowd around them watched in sheer surprise, some calling "Come on, Flash!” or “You can’t beat him?” But nothing. 

“Come on, Peter, kick his ass.” Harry grinned considering he wasn’t so afraid of Flash as his best friend. Blinking once, he gave it a go. The bully was getting angrier and angrier but nothing; Twenty bucks sounded great. And just like that... he had won. Within less than a second, the nerdy teenage boy had slammed Flash’s arm into the table, who let out a large cry of pain. The students around them let out cheers of excitement, glad to see someone else win finally. Looks like he was super strong now too. “Sorry, Flash,” The same student said, moving the twenty bucks from his side to Peter’s free hand. “Congrats, Parker, you won.”

AN HOUR LATER.

“That was amazing, Pete!” Harry and Peter walked through Queens, heading towards Peter’s house with two very large pizzas that they were shoving into their mouths. Courtesy of the twenty dollars. “Maybe you have been working out, guess I was wrong!” Pete couldn’t help but... enjoy his victory. Sure, it was small, but it felt good to feel like the strong one in the room for once. Literally and metaphorically. He bore a wide grin on his face. “It was pretty cool. And look! Five dollars to spare.”

“You should do that again! Think of all the cash you could make.” Whilst Pete, his aunt and uncle weren’t poor, money was tight and had to be watched carefully. He didn’t get the same luxuries Harry did, though he never really complained. However... the prospect of having cash did suddenly sound appealing.

“I dunno, Harry, I --” Looking up, Pete saw a classmate of theirs walk towards them. Brad Davis, star football player. He smiled too much. “Hey, Parker! Nice job beating Flash today.” The quarterback gave the boy a grin, patted him on the shoulder before walking on. Peter could only stare in... shock. “I... t-thanks, Brad!”

Harry and Pete watched the other student carry home, and Harry smacked his friend yet again. “Brad Davis said ‘nice job’ to you, Pete. And you think this isn’t a good idea? You could go from being nerdy Peter Parker to the guy every girl loves with his pockets full of cash and who Brad says ‘hey’ to! Doesn’t that sound even remotely fun?”

Peter frowned, pausing to think. It did seem silly that he had achieved many things academically over the years, but the thing that his classmates cared about was that he’d beat Flash Thompson in an arm wrestle. But that was Midtown High for you. Yet, not being seen as geeky Peter Parker anymore sounded fantastic.

“I... okay, sure. What’s the worst that could happen?”

FRIDAY 5TH FEBRUARY, 2021.

Over the past eighteen days, life had been amazing for Peter Parker. He’d gone from a nobody, someone people liked to trip up, to someone “everyone” loved. Or at least, that’s what Pete thought. He felt a little more noticed these days, and that had gone to his head. The only person who didn’t seem care still was Gwen Stacy -- she just did what she always did, rolled her eyes at him and made blunt remarks. Peter personally believed she was just jealous because he now had the one thing she’d always had -- popularity. Now, what had she got over him?

Yet he wasn’t popular at all. What Peter didn’t realise... was that no one really cared. Sure, everyone was fascinated by his new antics, but did they care about Peter himself? Not at all. His classmates had no concern for actually wanting to get to know him; He was still that kid who liked Star Wars too much for his own good, in the social world of high school... he was irrelevant. This was merely a means of entertainment; in two weeks time, they would move on to the next thing, and Peter Parker would return to being a nobody.

After persuasion from Harry, the boy had managed to bag himself plenty of cash from doing all sorts of things. Arm wrestles, races, how high he could climb something. All betting for and against him, it was now some sort of gambling event -- how much money could I win if Peter Parker did or didn’t do something? It was exciting for the stufents. But he always did, and he always came home with his pockets brimming in money. And he loved every second of it.

Today, Pete and a few classmates were stood in the alleyway beside one of the many grocery stores in Queens that sold cheap beer and chewing gum. Today, one of the school’s many athletes had challenged him to climb the fire escape stairs quicker than him, considering he was a free runner in his spare time. But that was too easy for Parker. The large group of students watched eagerly as the athlete bet Peter fifty bucks he could win, his biggest bet yet, but the loud noises and chatter didn’t go unnoticed; the shopkeeper of the very grocery store stepped aside.

“Hey!” He yelled, everyone turning to face him, “Get the hell outta here! You’re scaring away customers with all your stupid shit! Clear off before I call the cops!” Everyone hesitated, glancing at each other but the man was persistent. “I mean it!” Groaning and sighing, everyone rolled their eyes and began to disperse, except for Pete. He’d just lost out on fifty bucks and he was pissed.“You too, kid. You’re scaring off my damn customers!” 

Pete snickered, glancing around. “What customers?” He countered, gesturing to how empty it was. He didn’t appreciate that. Listening to the man moan on and on about the youth of today, he was about to simply walk away, but then he noticed something. Someone. A man wearing sunglasses and gloves creeping behind the owner, looking Pete dead in the eye and placing a finger on his lips. Don’t say a thing. Usually a good samaritan, the anger and arrogance inside made Peter... do nothing. 

The criminal slipped inside with no fuss, the shopkeeper not even realising he was being robbed. Yet Peter said nothing. “You understand, kid? Get outta here! I mean it, this ain’t your business!” Pete raised his arms in defence, turning around and beginning to walk away. 

However, not even seconds later, he heard the shopkeeper rush back outside, screaming yet again. “Someone stop that guy!” The criminal was running down the street with the cash in a bag. He turned to Pete, “Kid, which way did he go?!” 

Peter only shrugged, beginning to walk on. “It ain’t my business, sorry.” 

Continuing his walk home, he sighed sadly in the lack of money in his pockets but just wanted his bedroom. Aunt May would be wondering where he was. However, not too long after the robbery, Pete heard one loud gunshot in the distance that made him freeze in his place. The shot was booming... it echoed down the street, replayed in the back of his mind. “Holy shit.” He mumbled, eyes widening as he saw a commotion off in the distance. A crowd of pedestrians gathering. Beginning to pick up the pace, he saw a car with its door wide open and someone running away. The thug from earlier... with a gun in his hands.

Frowning, Peter wanted to get a closer look and noticed the criminal run right past him. “Thanks, kid.” He called, hurrying down the streets before the cops had time to arrive. The teenager’s stomach was beginning to churn the closer he got, hearing the panic of the civilians as they seemed to be stood around... a body. A man. Rushing close, Pete pushed his way through the crowd, some trying to help the injured man, some calling the police. “The guy tried to steal his car but he wouldn’t let him... so he just shot him!” Someone cried in panic. But Peter didn’t listen. 

Moving to the front, he finally saw who it was... and everything changed. His heart fell to his stomach and his skin turned cold, his hands beginning to shake. The teenage boy ignored the calls of the crowd telling him to stay back. 

“Uncle Ben!”

The teenage boy fell to his knees, seeing the way the older man could only stare at him, his breath hitching and his eyes watering from the pain. “Someone c-call an ambulance... call a fucking ambulance!” Peter screamed and screamed at the crowd, placing his hands on his uncle’s chest to put pressure on the wound. “Uncle Ben, it’s okay, it’s okay, j-just hold on, they’re gonna come, the ambulance is gonna c-come and you’re gonna be okay!”

Peter, a boy so smart, lost all rationale at that moment. The crowd knew the man wasn’t going to make it, the sheer amount of blood he’d lost, the wound, the look in his eyes... it was obvious. But Peter didn’t care. Ben Parker wasn’t going to die, he couldn’t die. He was going to be safe.

His voice was hoarse and it hurt to talk, but the teenager only grabbed his hand. “Pete...”

Peter shook his head furiously, his cheeks stained in hot tears burning his skin. “No... no, don’t say that Ben, they’ll b-be here any second and--” His eyes lost that shine. “Uncle Ben?... no, no! Stay with me, please!”

A man with a good heart, Ben had been known in their community as a giver. Always smiling and laughing, he was married to his childhood sweetheart May Reilly. If anyone needed help, it was always Ben Parker you could go to, even if it was just for a coffee and a chat. In his last moments, the man had tried to reason with the petty criminal, trying to get him to see sense. But the thug hadn’t listened; he demanded Ben’s car, and when he had refused... he was shot.

Even in death, he simply looked at his nephew with a weak yet warm smile painted delicately on his lips, holding Pete’s hand as tight as he could. He seemed to accept his fate, greet death with respect and pass... peacefully. “No...” Peter sobbed, his t-shirt soaking from the tears as he rested his forehead upon his Uncle’s body, sobbing loudly.

The crowd watched in silence, watching the way an already orphaned boy lost the most important man in his life. He was a father, a best friend. Their eyes welled with tears and wives held their husbands' arms for support, friends remained close, the neighbourhood mourned for a man who had cared for every single one of them. 

Their hearts ached for Peter Parker. 

[mymarvelbunch]

Different Roads... Same Destination: Part Three

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader (established)

Summary: When the Avengers went back in time to get the Infinity Stones, new timelines were created. By not delivering them back to their exact same spots, you and Steve created major changes in those timelines. What happened? (Non-American!Reader)

This is a sequel to “Be Your Own Hero”. I highly recommend you read it first, since it features many major changes in canon that are addressed here.

Notes: Y/N = your (first) name; Y/Co = your home country; Y/Ci = your home city; Y/N/L = your native language (to be ignored in case you speak English).

Warning: this chapter features major characters deaths and violence. Proceed with caution.

Masterlist

Part Three

Titan, 2018

In an ideal world, the team would have taken advantage of Thanos being knocked unconscious to defeat him once and for all. However, they were all too stunned by what they just saw to do anything useful.

Why did Thor suddenly show up? When did he get fat with long hair and beard? Who were the women who showed up with him? Why did they only get two Stones and left? What happened in those few minutes?

It was confusing as hell and, by the time any of them figured out those questions were not important at the moment, Thanos had already woken up and realized two Stones were missing. Enraged, he attacked the team viciously with the Power Stone, giving them little time to react.

They tried to fight him, they really did, but soon it was clear it was suicide to keep going, especially after Drax was brutally killed. Strange opened a portal and gave the Time Stone to Tony as he, Parker, Quill, Mantis and Nebula ran. Thanos ran to the portal, and all there was left for Strange was to close it without getting in. No one saw it, but everyone knew the sorcerer didn’t make it.

They stepped in Wakanda, mid-battle. Thanos’ army was bigger than any of them (except Nebula) had anticipated. “The other Avengers must be here”, he said as he placed the Time Stone inside one of his pockets and suited back up. His tone was oddly calm. “Follow me. We need to get a clear perspective on what’s going on.”

Parker followed him with no further words; Quill, Mantis and Nebula exchanged glances and did the same, concluding they had no better options. Killing a few monsters on their way, they reached Captain America. Steve’s surprise was obvious. “Tony? You’re... you’re back.”

Something in his voice made Tony smile despite everything. “Yeah, I’m a tough thing, Rogers. You should know that by now. What’s our situation?”

Steve looked behind him, frowning as he saw Spider-kid, a young man and two female aliens (they looked no weirder than the aliens Thor brought a few moments before, however). When he turned back to Tony, though, he saw his former friend wouldn’t divulge further details any time soon, so he just debriefed the group on their current predicament.

"I’ll fetch Vision”, Tony said. Then he turned to the others. “Parker, Quill, Blue Meanie, Praying-Mantis, help our Cap over here with whatever he needs. Thanos may come at any minute now with the Space Stone still in his possession.”

“Fuck”, Parker cursed, but obeyed anyway, positioning himself on Steve’s back. The other three split around the field, doing what they could.

He found Wanda and a young girl leaning over Vision. Maximov hugged him briefly upon seeing him, and the girl introduced herself as Princess Shuri, not taking her eyes away from the screen she was using to work. “Wanda”, he said softly, “you should help them down there. I’ll protect Vision and Shuri.”

“I have to be here to destroy the Stone as soon as it’s taken out of him”, she replied, tense.

Steve had not told him that; then again, he was busy fighting and speaking at the same time. “Well then, maybe you could practice your Stone-destruction abilities in the meantime.” Then he dropped his suit to get the Time Stone out of his pocket.

Wanda’s eyes widened, silently asking how, when, where, why. He shook his head. Her expression softened. “Put that on the floor, near the glass window”, she instructed. “It’ll be safer that way.”

He suited up again and raised a shield to protect Shuri and his robot. It took time and energy, but she managed to do it. Shortly after that, a bunch of monsters jumped inside, breaking the glass window, but she and Tony quickly defeated them. Wanda sat down on the floor, seemingly unwell.

“Are you okay?”, he asked, expecting an elaborate answer.

“I feel something missing”, she replied quietly. “It reminds me of what I felt when Pietro died.” He gulped, but said nothing. They had to focus on their task: enable Shuri to do her job.

She did it, eventually. Vision did not shut down after she carefully removed the Mind Stone from his forehead, and Wanda destroyed it faster than her first time. She collapsed afterwards, drained from all the effort. Vision quickly stood up and fetched her from Tony’s arms. “Do you still feel something for her?”, he asked.

The AI was hesitant. “It’s... weaker, but yes. I suppose the Mind Stone played a big part on my ability to have emotions, though it clearly wasn’t the only factor.”

He nodded. It was a relief. “I’ll go to the field”, he said at last. “I trust you two to protect Wanda and one another.”

“We can defend ourselves”, Shuri said with a small smile. “Thank you, Mr. Stark.”

~~

The room was silent. Out of all Guardians, only Thor, Sif and Nebula were present, so no one looked for Drax, but they’d glance at Strange every now and then.

“I did what I had to do”, he said eventually. “In my line of work, one must be prepared for sacrifices.”

“I’m glad you didn’t have to die for real in our timeline, wizard”, Tony said, quieter than his usual tone.

A brief silence. “Wanda saved me in the field”, Natasha whispered. “Along with Okoye. If she stayed up all along...”

“We’ll found out soon enough, I guess”, you whispered back.

“I think it’s better for us if we skip to the battle’s aftermath”, Wong said, and they all agreed.

~~

Thor still didn’t aim for the head, which still allowed Thanos to escape. This time, however, he didn’t snap. How could he, with two lost Stones and other two destroyed?

He still possessed Space and Power Stones, which cause more than enough damage. After Thanos’ army retreated, shortly after noticing their leader’s own departure, they assessed their losses. Without Wanda, they struggled a lot more to stop the huge wheels, and many died in the process - including Natasha, Okoye, Rocket and M’Baku (who, they later found, was Okoye’s husband).

Steve and Sam had been heavily injured while battling Thanos. Sam couldn’t feel (or move) his left side, and Steve was comatose. Shuri assured them Wakanda had enough resources to treat all injured, but asked to care of their own dead.

“We have two bodies to retrieve in Titan”, Tony told Thor. “One from Earth and one of the Guardians. If you could teleport yourself and one of us to get them...”

“Of course”, he said, voice weak. He clearly was shaken by his ‘failure’ (not that anyone else saw his efforts as such).

The infamous Gamora was found. She had stayed on the borders, and only Nebula saw her before the end of the battle.

“Two humans rescued me in Vormir”, she explained. “I was revived after they returned the Soul Stone. They claimed to be allies from the future, but didn’t give me any further details, or names.”

“Can you describe them?”, Rhodes asked.

“One was a man with white skin, blonde hair, blue eyes. Tall and muscular, a little less than Thor, but enough to draw attention.” Quill snorted at that. “The other was a woman with [your physical description]. They were wearing identical uniforms. It was red and white. They looked like a couple.”

The remaining Avengers exchanged glances. Gamora’s description of the man fit Steve’s, but the woman’s didn’t remind them of anyone they knew. How far from the future those two were?

“Mr. Stark”, Parker spoke up. “Do you think that... the other Thor we saw was from the future too?”

Tony frowned. “It... makes sense, kid. That Thor and those two women took Soul and Reality Stones. Then, not much later, the Soul Stone is delivered back to Vormir by other two people, one of which resembles our Cap.”

“Wait”, Thor said, “what do you mean you saw another me?”

Tony, both Peters, Mantis and Nebula told them what happened in Titan. Tony concluded, “It was all extremely confusing, and by the time we went back to our senses, Thanos was back up, angrier than ever. That’s how we lost two of our team.”

Nebula managed to project what they saw for five seconds. The white woman was unknown to them, but Thor recognized the brown-skinned one as Valkyrie. “It matters little, I’m afraid”, he said somberly. “Whoever those people are, whenever they came from, they are unlikely to be helpful. We need to focus on here and now. What do we have, aside from losses?”

“Time and Mind Stones no longer exist”, Wanda said. “I destroyed them.”

“That’s a relief”, T’Challa spoke for the first time. “Even if small. Thanos cannot achieve his goal without all Stones, if I understand it right.”

“You did”, Thor agreed. “We know the Soul Stone is back in Vormir, and according to lady Gamora he has no means to obtain it right now.” He turned to said Gamora and asked, “Did they give you any clues on where the Reality Stone might be?”

She shook her head. “They had no Stones in their possession when I woke up. At least not that I noticed, but Infinity Stones are hard to miss.”

“Well, either they returned it to a ruined Knowhere, or hid it in an even harder place to find”, Quill interjected. “We the Guardians can search for it after we go to Titan. Our ship is still there.”

“I am Groot.”

“I agree with the Tree”, Thor said. “If the Reality Stone is well hidden, it should stay that way. Things might be worse if we go after it.”

“We need to find Thanos”, Tony said. “Kill him if possible, retrieve the other Stones if it isn’t. Remove the threat. And we need to tend to our injured and dead.”

That was something they all agreed on. Shuri excused herself to go to the hospital, to see on the injured, and T’Challa left to prepare a collective funeral for his fallen soldiers. The Avengers and the Guardians left to the open field. “I’ll bring half of you now”, Thor told the remaining Guardians. “I’ll return with the wizard’s body, and then I’ll take the rest. Does anyone else want to take part on our quest to find Thanos?”

“You should come”, Nebula told Tony and Parker. “You were useful for us in Titan.”

“Peter is not going”, Tony answered for the teenager, who didn’t object. “As for me... my suit was greatly damaged in battle. I don’t think I’ll be as useful.”

“I’ll go”, Wanda offered. “You’ll need me to destroy the Stones anyway.”

Vision offered himself as well, which earned a tiny smile from Wanda. Thor raised Stormbreaker, taking Groot, Nebula, Mantis and Vision with him.

Deep down, Tony had hoped Strange would still be alive. When Thor came back with a broken corpse, he closed his eyes, unable to look at it for longer than a second.

~~

“Fuck”, you heard Bucky whisper. You snuggled even closer to Steve.

“I didn’t even get to say goodbye to you”, Clint said, sniffing. You turned to see Natasha holding his shoulder. 

You looked up at your husband. His face was unreadable for most, but you knew how much it pained him to see so many fallen friends. “I hope this version of you will recover”, you whispered.

He kissed the top of your head. “I hope so too. Even if just to get a chance to meet you.”

Turning your head, you could see Parker trying to comfort a teary-eyed Shuri, while Wanda and Vision held hands. Rhodey’s hand was on Sam’s shoulder.

“I’ll go with another time skip”, you heard Strange say.

~~

Thanos was found and killed, and the Stones he carried destroyed. Reality Stone was never found, and Soul Stone remained in Vormir, under Red Skull’s watch.

Like in the other timeline, you traveled to Wakanda to study in 2020. What you found there was slightly different, however. “Tell me, Y/N”, Shuri began one day, “how much experience do you have with traumatic memory loss?”

“A little more than most”, you admitted. “I had quite a magnet for this kind of patient last year.”

“Then I suppose we could use your help with a particular case. But I ask your discretion. He’s a... special patient.”

You nodded. “I’ll keep any secrets that won’t go against my profession’s ethical code.”

“I expected nothing less. Follow me.”

Soon you found out why the patient was special: he was Steve Rogers, Captain American himself. You hadn’t heard about him since the Avengers split in 2016.

“There was a battle here in Wakanda, two years ago”, Shuri explained as you made your way to the tiny house he lived in. “Against aliens. We managed to keep it a secret, though it meant the Avengers had to make something up to justify Black Widow’s tragic death. The Falcon has also stayed here, but his injuries have long healed.

“Rogers was knocked hard on the head and only by miracle didn’t die. He woke up four months ago, with few memories of his life, and so far he hasn’t made much progress. I’ve dealt with brainwashing victims before, but this is quite different.”

Captain lived with Wilson and Barnes (you supposed he was the brainwashed person Shuri had dealt with in the past). He had a beard you had never seen on him before (but looked extremely good on him). The princess introduced you two, and she, Barnes and Wilson left you alone to talk.

~~

“That’s rough, buddy”, Parker said.

“Please, no ‘The Last Airbender’ references”, Scott groaned. “Cassie is obsessed enough already with it.”

Quiet laughter was heard. “I hope at least this part has a happy ending”, Sam said. “Though I have to say, it must have been weird for Bucky to be the one trying to help Steve get his memories back.”

Bucky chuckled. “I’m already used to take care of this punk anyway.”

“Jerk”, Steve replied, but you could hear his smile.

~~

A year went by. Your stay was prolonged first due to the national lockdown in response to covid-19, but then you got quite attached to the friends you have made.

You and Steve had gone past the point of just being doctor and patient, and befriended over the months. Your heart would skip beats every time you met (which was quite often, given you still had sessions with him), but you’d never admit that to anyone in Wakanda, even if Bucky and Sam often teased you two as a couple.

It didn’t help that, when the Guardians of the Galaxy (whose existence was unknown to you until a day before their arrival) paid a visit, Gamora claimed to recognize you immediately. It took an hour for the group to explain the story behind that, but the guys’ teasing only increased after she insisted future you and future Steve resembled a couple from the way they acted around one another. At night, alone, you allowed yourself to imagine that alternate future could repeat itself in your reality.

One day, Tony Stark came, with his wife and his daughter. You had heard about Morgan Stark long before you came to Wakanda. You were in the guys’ apartment when he arrived, and played with Morgan while the adults caught up with one another.

“You seem to be good with kids”, Steve mentioned in passing, voice soft.

You chuckled. “I wasn’t always. Had to learn for the job.”

~~

“You did get better with kids after your residency program”, Steve mused. “I remember when we met some mom friends of yours, and you almost killed the babies you tried to hold.”

“Don’t remind me”, you groaned. “I indeed had to learn for the job. I’ve dealt with kids with ADHD, psychosis and personality disorders, not to mention a five-year-old sociopath. Any other kid after that was a walk in the park.”

He laughed, along with Bucky and Natasha. “You know what’s also funny?”, he said after the laughter died down. “We weren’t dating yet when we met Gamora.”

“It’s not like either of you were good at hiding your feelings for each other”, Carol snorted from behind. The whole crowd laughed, even Strange and Wong.

~~

Tony had brought old pictures of Steve, Bucky, the Howling Commandos, Howard Stark and Peggy Carter. Your patient and friend (and crush) had regained most memories of the 21st century, but his war times were still lost to him. He vaguely remembered his pre-serum times, thanks to Bucky’s stories, but not much.

He wanted to remember, you knew that, even if his anxiety about it relieved after he got back memories regarding Bucky, Sam and Wakanda. It was heartbreaking to watch him grieve over Natasha two years after her death, but it was necessary step. He'd also been overcome with a desire to make amends with Tony, something the man was happy to provide.

A week after the Stark family left, you two took a walk in the forest. He still couldn’t remember the battle that led to his injury, and he likely never would. It was for the best, you supposed, considering what you’ve heard and read about it.

“I remembered Peggy Carter”, he said suddenly. You stopped on your tracks.

“Really? That’s great, Steve.” Carter had been the love of his life, according to Bucky. Sam attested that he had never loved anyone like he’d loved her, even if he had kissed other women in the 21st century.

“It’s not much. From what Bucky said, I still have a lot to remember. But I remember loving her.” He shook his head. “It’s strange. I can’t bring myself to love her today. Not like Sam claims I still did, even after she died.”

You did your best to give him a gentle look. “It’s okay, Steve, you are a different person now. Agent Carter lived a good life, and you two rekindled before her death. You are allowed to move on.”

He didn’t reply at first, busy looking at the horizon. Then his gaze turned to you. “I know. I remember not being good at moving on from things I’ve lost, but it doesn’t seem so hard now. Maybe this whole amnesia thing was good, after all.”

He bit his lip and looked down briefly. When he looked back at you, his gaze was inexplicably intense. “What I do know, is that those memories of Peggy made me realize that... I’m love with you, Y/N.”

Your eyes widened. “Me?”

He nodded, closing his eyes. “I know I shouldn’t. You’re my doctor, even if we are friends now. But I guess it can’t be helped. It’s okay if you don’t feel the same. I’m thankful for each moment I get to spend with you, and I don’t wish for anything you are not comfortable with. We can pretend I never said anything if you want.”

You melted inside. You knew Steve was the kindest soul you’ve ever met, but hearing those words... You closed the distance between them and kissed him. It took a couple seconds, but soon he circled his arms around your waist and kissed you back.

You only broke your kiss when your need for oxygen was greater than your need for his lips. His voice was hoarse when he said, “I’m... glad.”

You chuckled as your foreheads touched. “So am I”, you whispered. “But we do have to find you another psychiatrist now.”

He chuckled and kissed you again.

~~

A/N: I had to watch and re-watch the battle scenes from Infinity War to write this. I wrote and rewrote the battle in Wakanda, and killed and un-killed characters. At different points, Bruce, Sam, Bucky, Groot and Mantis would die. Even Steve was almost killed, until I remembered this story’s pairing haha

Next chapter will be the longest, because I want to write a bit about alternate Steve’s life after being rescued in 1945 instead of 2011. Will he and Reader cross paths?

[amnachil]

The College Society Chapter 3 Part 3

4 days late is better than a week so be happy :)

I should be posting the next part of TP tomorow but you know me, I never do what I say :p

Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey Saturday January 26

It had been the worst three days of Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey's life. Maybe not exactly, but among the worst. On wednesday, he had tried to speak with Liam, but the freshman had avoided him, of course. Zack had told him to play it cool. To stay quiet a bit, and then talk with his "boyfriend". To stay quiet. Me. Stay quiet and wait ? What more ? Make the puppy ? And talk to him ? He meant apologise right ? Zack wants me to apologise. Me. Everything had happened because Amber and Theo had tricked him. She had got her hands on four tickets. She had gone on her own at the festival, and then she had waited the perfect moment. I can't express how mad I am. I can't say enough curse to calm down. After this horrible humilition, he had headed straight back home. He had wanked several times. Until he had felt pain and tiredness. And since then, he had met some old friends, some old and smart hunters. And he had banged them all. Some old preys too. He had been having sex, sex and more sex, but he still felt frustrated. He pictured Liam's smile. His soft voice. His cute booty. Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey was a predator. The best of his kind. He had chased hundreds of people. Gay, hetero, even alleged lesbian. He had always succeeded. His thought went to Liam again. This lad had a lovable expression. When they ate together, he was so genuinely happy. Zack wants me to apologise. Fuck Theophile and Amber. And all those assholes who had bet against him. He was ruling the university for god's sake ! And Zack wants me to apologise. Fine. For the first and only time of his life, Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey would beg forgiveness.

The lad headed towards Pasta's Place, where Liam was working this night, when he bumped into Theophile. This... Man I don't know. Fuckin' shitty greedy idiotic douchebag ? Nah. Bally foolish bitchy rotten bastard, it's better.

"Hi Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey. Going somewhere ?"

"Go back in the bloody pussy you came from nasty stupid bitch. I'm busy."

"Sounds like you're a bit more vulgar than usual. Are you scared to lose ?"

The blond lad did his best to stay calm. At least to not be even angrier than he already was.

"You're sure talking a lot moronic asshole." he grumbled aggressively. "Still, you didn't catch the prey either. Maybe it's too much for your prick to handle ? Go back to these fatty shit of yours, idiot."

"I never realised how many curse words you were able to use in only one sentence." applauded Theo with a laugh. "It make me horny. Look, let's make a little deal. You let me Liam. And you let me bang you from time to time because I reckon, you're the best lay around. Oh, and you put on some pounds, because I like you more with a belly. In exchange, you can keep your 1000$."

"Here is my counterproposal. I take Liam. I put my dick in your ass or mouth or any hole you have when I want to. I keep my money. And you go fuck yourself somewhere I can't see you. It's the last warning, don't play with me."

"For now, I'm winning. So be it."

When Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey arrived at Pasta's Place, he was barely calmed down. Judy glimpsed him first. At start, she wanted to make him clear off, but when she saw his eyes, she just led him to Liam. Apparently, this one just finished his shift and was about to left. When they glanced at each other, the Dean's grandson didn't know what to say. He wasn't good to make apologies. He didn't even know how to apologise in the first place. And this baboon was just standing there, looking at him. Damnit Zack, I hate you. Why did you convince me to do this ?

"Listen to me Liam. I'll not say this twice. I'm..."

Damnit, it was harder than he tought. The chestnut lad openned his eyes wide.

"Are you gonna..."

"Shut up, don't make it even more difficult." interupted Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey. "All I want to say is I'm..."

I can't. I can't do this, it's so humiliating. It was Amber and Theo who should be apologising. Not him. Liam slowly took his hands. He had a wonderful face. And damnit, his touch was so soft.

"You're what Dami ?"

It's not my fuckin' name. Please stop it. Stop with this cute nickname.

"I'm sorry." he finally spilt.

And a moment of silent. Say something.

"You're blushing." whispered Liam. "You're cute."

Don't say anything more. Don't. The freshman himself was as red as a tomato. This whole situation was the weirdest Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey ever lived. Even when he had had sex in a field, on the back of a cow, it had been less embarrassing. (Not with the cow, of course, just on her).

"We never really said we were dating or anything." admitted Liam. "I guess you have the right to see other people ?"

"You mean I can't if we are a couple ?"

It's mortifying. How could he survive like this ? As far as he could remember, he had always be with several people at the same time.

"I don't want to force you to do something you won't like." whispered Liam. "Listen Dami, I think you're very nice. Maybe you don't know this, but in a way, you helped me when my world was falling apart. Deliberately or not, you made my life better, and I thank you for this. To be perfectly honest, I'm not sure to understand what you see in me but... I'm okay, and I want to be your boyfriend. And I'm ready to let you have sex with other people like you're used too."

"Wait. How would you know I..."

"You've quite a reputation, but it's Theo who told me. But whatever, I don't mind this as long as your respect some conditions. Please ?"

Conditions. Is this baboon putting conditions at me ? Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey shook his head. What the hell was going on ? Why he felt so shy all of sudden ? Why I'm listening to him ? I should be leading the conversation.

"Which ones ?" he simply asked, much for his own displeasure.

"First, when I call you, you come, whoever you're having sex with. I'm number one for everything. Maybe it'll just be for a cuddle, or to see a movie, but I'm your priority." commanded Liam. "Second, you don't fall in love with any of them. Just sex, nothing more. I don't want you do be sentimentally involved with anyone but me..."

I'm not even loving you. You're just a prey. So why the hell I'm blushing everytime you open your fuckin' mouth ? Why ?

"Okay." the Dean's grandson agreed. "It works for me."

"Third, don't sleep with my relatives. Not my roommate, not my friends nor people I used to know in my past... It would be awkward. And four, you call me. I'm your boyfriend so if you need help with something, I'll be there. If you're sad, happy or angry, I wanna know."

Damnit. That's not what I planned at all. Things were getting out of hand. Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey tried his best to rationalize. To be his former self. But he just felt butterflies in his belly.

"And I've one last request. It's very important to me."

"Whatever it is, I'm fine with it." quickly promised the lad.

No ! What did I just say ?! What's wrong with my body ? With my brain ? I'm broken ! Someone needs to help me, I'm fuckin' broken !

"All the pastries and the plates you're making ? All for me. No sharing. I want them all."

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

"Sure. All my cooking is for you."

And then they kissed.

Liam Sunday January 27 – Monday January 28

My mother was right, with each piece of good news come a piece of bad news. Yesterday, Dami had agreed to be his boyfriend. (They still had some stuff to work on, like how to be faithful). (He had what ? Two or three lovers, no more right ?). But Liam wanted to be comprehensive and to respect Dami. If his new boyfriend needed to have sex to feel happy, Liam didn't want to stop him. As soon as I will be ready, I'll have sex with him too... But the chesnut lad wasn't feeling confident enough for that. I don't even know what exactly we are doing. Anyway, this late morning, when Liam woke up, he discovered Theo. He first thought the dark-haired junior had crept into their flat in order to devour Nick. He was ready to hit him with a baguette when his roommate said they had sex. Sex. Liam didn't even know Nick was interested in men... The ogre is having sex with his preys. It was bad, really bad. Liam understood the long-run plan of the monster : he intented to make Nick addicted to him. But can I do something ? I don't know what...

"You look worried." smiled Theo. "Have you some problems I can help with ?"

At this point, Liam wanted to hid under his bed with the unicorns. (They were friends. They would protect him). But he couldn't let Nick alone in this dangerous situation.

"By the way, I heard your father sued your mother." continued the ogre. "I think I can help you with that, since we all are friend here."

What ? Now it was sure. Theo was sent by the forces of evil to harm them. Liam had to find a way out !

"My father is your dad's lawyer. I'm surprised you never realised it. Anyway, I think we can talk to him. Maybe find an arrangement ?"

"Liam dude, it would be nice." added Nick.

"I have one question." interrupted Liam. "It's unrelated to the topic but... Ain't you bothered by cheating on Laura ? Does she know what you're doing ? And you Nick ?"

"We have an agreement." explained Theo. "I'm free to have sex with cute and sweet men like Nick, she's okay with that. I can sleep with you too if you want."

Oh. That's straight. Liam didn't want to sleep with an ogre. And he already have a boyfriend. Not the most faithful in the world but... he was cooking very well at least.

"You should try." excitedly said Nick. "Theo is like... very good ! Trust me, you'll quickly understand why I did that !"

"Uh well... I'm not interested." Liam diplomatically said. "But I'm okay to meet your father and negociate."

The whole conversation felt surreal. I didn't know Nick was interested in men. Or that Laura was aware... This is sooo weird. (Weirder than believing in unicorns, yes).

"Nice, let's say next saturday ?" suggested Theo. "I know the trial is in early february."

"Okay..."

Liam still needed help to save Nick. But he had had an illumination. His boyfriend was someone important after all, maybe he could help. (The chestnut lad had heard something about the Dean, but still couldn't remember what).

The young freshman went to work at 4pm. Judy welcomed him with a concerned look. Exactly like the last time they had talked about the forces of evil. While he got ready, she mumbled :

"Big guy, there's something you need to know."

"What's the matter ?"

He was captivated by his suit. The waiters here had cool suit, nice and warm. He tried once to steal one, but she had stopped him.

"I saw you kiss Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey yesterday. And I don't think it's a good idea." she said. "I know you're a grown-up man, and it's your call but... Do you know how awful he can be ? I think you're only another prey for his tally to be honest."

Liam had already thought about this. And he asked Nate's advice. After all, if Dami was actually sleeping with two or three other person at the moment, he probably had also a lot of ex. (And the freshman was known to be naive so maybe his boyfriend played him). (But he was trusting Dami, he felt it was the right thing to do).

"Thank you Judy but... I don't know. I think I can trust him. He's sweet with me. I've a gut feeling about this. And I appreciate him."

"You sure ? I thought this at first too. Then he ditched me."

It took Liam a moment to undestand. So... they used to be a thing. Okay. Now he was wondering, who had slept with Dami ? Stop it Liam. Stop it now. As Nate said, he shouldn't think about his boyfriend's past. After all, he didn't want his own past to resurface.

"I'm sorry to hear that Judy, because you're a nice girl." he assured. "But I still think it's different. Maybe I'm a fool, and maybe I'm really stupid, but I want to try."

The next morning in class, the professor of macroeconomics gave them an important information. They would make a journey in France. It would take place during the winter holidays. It was unusual for first year students, but the Dean and the administration decided to chose the thirty best students in economics, and give them this opportunity. It appeared Nick was the major of their promotion, so he would be part of it. Rebecca, Barbara and Colton aswell. But Liam never expected to heard his name. Apparently, he was among the best ? I can't believe it. For real ? He felt really happy about it. (In case some people wonder : Liam was bright. With focus, he could probably be a very good student). (But the chestnut lad wasn't thinking about it at all). Some of his friends weren't really pleased with the group, but he was. Plus, the professor anounced they would select some junior and sophomore to come with them. All I need to do is convince Dami to come. Easy-peasy.

Barbara Wednesday January 30

At first, she had thought it would a piece of cake. All she had to do was convince a professor to support her more than Summer. But Ms. Weber wasn't cooperative at all. It was already hard to find the hunters among thousands of students and staff in the university. Barbara discovered some names thanks to Javier, but not enough. And now, one of them, Linda wouldn't help her.

"Look, I'm not sayin' I won't be in your side at the end." she explained. "But for now, I'm trusting Summer. The girl's good. She knows what she has to do to maintain order."

"But isn't she a kind of rival ?" asked Barbara. "For the hunt I mean."

"That's right, we're looking for the same kind of prey. But there are plenty of young male around here. I don't have any gripe against her honestly. Prove you're better or worthier and I'll support you."

I already am... The short blonde just smiled. Obviously, the hunters weren't glad to see her. According to Javier, it took time to build a name in their society.

"Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey himself was my very first support." she reminded. "Does this count for nothing to you ?"

"It depend. Did you ever sleep with the man ?"

"No."

"Well, it's normally easy to turn him on. The man only love his prick you know ? If he hadn't sleep with you, it means he doesn't have much interest for you. And Summer knows how to talk with him. She's the head of student for the second year in a row, it mean something."

"Yeah, I understood this. Thanks you Ms. Webers. See you soon."

Damned. Such a waste of time. It wasn't the firt person she tried to convince. But the hunters were all supporting her opponent. Summer was useless and definitely not smart, but she had numerous great allies. I need to make a move to impress them. An important move. She was heading towards the library when a dark-haired lad approached her. He was tall and ripped, pretty imposing.

"Hey there." he greeted. "I'm Theo Meyers, nice to you meet you."

She knew him. Javier had said he had challenged Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey for his title of best hunter. And whoever is the best hunter is likely able to be the king.

"I heard you were trying to take Summer's position ?" he asked. "I guess you need a little help to make all these hunters work with you ? I mean, powerful people don't really like rookies. Are you a rookie ?"

Barbara smiled prudently. She had already met people like him. Psychopaths.

"I'm not." she replied. "And I'll figure out something."

"Why not beat the most famous and feared hunter ? You could win some respect that way."

Now it became interesting. But she had to be cautious. Obviously, Damian Nicholas Smith-Carrey had a lot of ressources. And he didn't seem to have a weakness.

"You've only one thing to do for me, and it's a win." explained Theo. "Distract him on saturday. I'm gonna win the bet this day. Can you do that ?"

"Yes."

She already had the start of a plan.

To be continued

Quite an important part becaure YAY They are finally together !!!! It’s not like... the perfect couple yet, but here they are. Liam is a very eager feedee, he wants the cook to feed him and only him ;) But they’ve still many problems to solve and many hardship to face. The happy end is far away, count on me for that.

And speaking of problems, Barbara and Theo made a deal. Which is not good news...

[skeletonscribbles]

Wishes - Chapter 9

ayy here it is in full! I know it’s 10:36pm EST but we’re gonna do this anyway I don’t care

Title: “I Will Go Sailing No More” (Mike) Rating: T for general sadness Word Count: 3500 or so Warnings: Bill hasn’t had sensitivity training SO some pretty iffy discussion around mental health, religion, et al

Read on Ao3

Tag List:  @roobarrtrashmouth @jem-carstairs-is-perfection @tozier-club@aizeninlefox@stanheartsbill@latinxrichie@softeds@pretzelstoday@melancholypurple@wheezygreens@ayyyymichele @loser-marsh

MIKE HANLON TRANSFERRING TO SOMEWHERE IN ATTRACTIONS Currently: AT THE HOOP-DE-DOO REVIEW WITH HIS BOYFRIENDS FEBRUARY 14th 6:00 p.m.

“Round em up pardners,” the frontier themed (cowboy) cast member called out from the front podium of Pioneer Hall at the Fort Wilderness Resort. “Showtime in 30 minutes! Those in the front, come on down and let’s get you seated. Don’t want the fun to start without anybody!”

Mike sighed and shuffled forwards. Behind him, he heard Bill and Stan do the same.

‘Oh, and Happy Valentine’s Day!” the CM called out as an afterthought, and Mike’s stomach dropped down all the way to his feet.

This was gonna be an experience, and not in the fun, life-changing way.

“How romantic,” Stan said acridly. Mike winced as he heard him kick a rock. He wished to God he’d cancelled this reservation - and he almost had, about a week ago, after Bill had made a particularly unfortunate comment that he hadn’t realized was anti-Semetic until Stan was halfway out the door. Mike had opened the My Disney Experience app as Bill stomped around in the kitchen of Mike and Ben’s apartment, and had hovered his thumb over the ‘cancel reservation’ button, but had ultimately decided to keep it until everything had cooled off. After all, after that kind of blowout, it was usually safe to assume that things could only get better.

This relationship was really doing a number on Mike’s optimism.

“It’ll be fun,” Bill tried half-heartedly, speeding up so that he was walking next to Mike. “You haven’t been, right, Mike? It’s fun.”

Someone gave a whooping yell from inside Pioneer Hall, and someone else yodeled in response. Mike was pretty sure that based on those two things alone, he could deduce that the things that Bill found fun were a pretty far cry from what he himself was interested in. If Stan’s loud sigh and exaggerated shuffling was anything to go on, he was feeling the same way.

(Dating a white boy was a little different, it turned out, if said white boy was Jewish. There was a little more camaraderie, a little more of a shared understanding in that.

Christian white boys from the Illinois suburbs? Well...that was a different story.)

At last, they reached the podium. Mike took a deep breath, and proceeded.

“Hanlon, party of 3,” he told the cowboy guy.

“Three…” the CM ran his finger down the list of names on his iPad until he found the one he was looking for. “Righty-o. Three cowpokes? Lonely Valentine's Day for you?”

Yes, Mike thought, as his mouth said, “No.”

The CM blinked, shrugged, and gestured for them to follow another Little House on the Prairie-type female employee into Pioneer Hall. “All right, then. Have a nice night!”

“Do you think he thinks it’s weird?” Bill asked, looking back at Cowboy CM with concern.

“He’s definitely seen weirder.” Stan had moved up to walk next to Mike and Bill. His mouth was pulled into a tight line, and Mike couldn’t help but feel guilty that Stan had been dragged out when he very clearly didn’t want to be there. “Don’t worry about it. I’m wondering, though - do we have to participate in this show? Are people going to touch me?”

“No one’s going to touch you,” Mike promised, sliding a hand over the small of Stan’s back and rubbing his thumb in reassuring circles.

“Probably not,” Bill amended, and Mike shot him an exasperated glare.

“Dude.”

“Just saying,” Bill muttered.

They were seated about three rows back from the stage, and their drink orders were taken immediately. Mike had been planning on staying sober so that they wouldn’t have to pay for an Uber on their way back, but all of that was out the window in the face of the tension in the air. All three of them ordered sangria, and when the waiter informed them that it was bottomless, Stan audibly muttered “Good” under his breath.

When the waiter walked away, the only noise for five solid minutes was the hum of the tourists at the surrounding tables.

You should have known this would happen, a voice in the back of Mike’s head whispered. Jumping into things without getting to know them at all…?

“We should talk,” Mike finally blurted, if only to silence that horrible, horrible voice. “Right?”

“We did talk,” Bill pointed out, eyes burning little laser holes into Mike’s forehead. The waiter came back with their sangrias (Stan’s white and Bill and Mike’s red), and silently, they each brought their glasses to their mouths and drank more than what was probably acceptable for a first swallow.

“Mike’s right,” Stan acquiesced, pulling back from his drink and wincing at its acrid aftertaste. “It’s not enough to have had one after-Christmas tell-all, especially given that nothing’s changed.”

The Christmas conversation had been a veritable shitshow. Mike had been talking with his father a lot in and around the holidays, which had gotten him thinking about his relationship (where it was going, how he was handling it, etc.), so he was admittedly a little distant in working some of that out through late November and early December, but Bill had made it sound like he was completely checked out. Stan had tried his best to mediate, but Bill wasn’t very interested in mediating, and as such, they’d come out worse from that than they’d been before.

Fate and the cosmos apparently had an expiration date. Real life had 100% kicked in, and Mike absolutely did not care for it.

Still, he was a good person, and he did still care for Bill and Stan (especially Stan, wholeheartedly Stan), so he figured he needed to keep trying for at least a little bit longer.

“So,” he began, twisting his napkin in his lap nervously, “I think…”

“HOOP DE DOO!” The band revved up, and the ensemble ran in from the back. Mike rolled his eyes and took another long drink of his sangria. Of COURSE the timing was going to work out like that.

Bill, for his part, had relief written all over his face. He clapped along with the tourists, smiling and sipping his drink, and Mike felt anger - God, how long had it been since he’d felt anger - simmering at the base of his chest. Why didn't Bill want to hear what he and Stan had to say? There was an entitlement in it that made Mike’s blood run hot.

Stan had obviously seen the flash of negativity that had swept over Mike’s face. He immediately slid a hand out and over, ignoring Bill’s glee entirely in favor of bringing Mike to a more agreeable emotional place.

“Just think,” he said, looking Mike in the eyes, “this could be you at the Country Bears when you transfer to MK attractions.”

That got Bill’s attention. He snapped his gaze from the stage to his boyfriends. “Transfer?”

“Oh.” Mike shifted uncomfortably. “Yeah, I put in to transfer to attractions. I wanted DAK but apparently they can move me faster if I agree to go to MK, so I’m pretty sure that I’m gonna agree to to to MK. I thought I told you?”

(He knew he hadn’t told Bill about that. He had a gut feeling that Bill wouldn’t respond well.)

True to form, Bill was frowning, looking every inch the exasperated tour guide as he considered Mike’s words.

“You sure that’s a good idea?” he asked finally, shooting a glare over to one of the entertainers when it looked like they were going to come interact with their table.

“I don’t follow,” Mike said, mirroring Bill’s frown.

“It’s just--” Bill was struggling to find the words for what he wanted to say, which made Mike extremely suspicious. “Dating someone you work with? Is that wise?”

A waiter slid a slab of cornbread on to their table. It fell with a loud clatter, and Mike winced. He finished his glass of sangria, and wordlessly, the waiter took the glass away.

“Technically, we all work together,” Stan pointed out, clutching his drink and pointedly ignoring the cornbread.

“Yeah, but like,’ Bill gestured vaguely with his hands. “Same park is different than park-park-hotel, you know?”

“Richie and Eddie make it work,” Mike said, angrier than he intended to.

Stan winced. “Sort of. What a mess.”

“I thought they were making it work, anyway,” Mike amended. They okay?”

“Oh--” Stan rolled his eyes and waved his hands. “They’re actually fine, but there’s always something. I don’t know what Eddie’s freaking out about right now, but Richie’s current big thing is that he wants to have sex, but doesn’t know how to ask. It’s like his hiatus from sex turned him back into a virgin again or something. He wasn’t like this in undergrad.”

“Maybe he just really cares,” Mike suggested, feeling heavy at the thought of his friend still being nervous about communicating with Eddie after all this time. It had been months, now, and the two of them were still kind of behaving like middle-schoolers.

“Maybe he should be on medication,” Bill countered. “How long has he been this jittery-anxious? And Stan, didn’t you say he was depressed? Has he been auditioning or anything?”

“I said I was worried,” Stan shot back. “Where the hell are you getting the rest of that? You barely even know him.”

“I’ve known him for three years,” Bill said incredulously, staring at Stan like Stan had just admitted to murder. “Just because you’ve known him the longest--”

“You two didn’t spend time together until this past November,” Stan said, acid in his voice. “You have no right to insinuate that stuff about him.”

Bill rolled his eyes and downed the rest of his sangria. “You guys are offended by everything. You remind me of this creative writing professor I had in college--”

The waitress came back with drink refills before Bill could finish his story, and Mike could have kissed him for it. He really hadn’t wanted to hear about the rest of Bill’s college experience.

“Not offended,” Mike said, summoning what little patience he had left. “Just concerned, is all, and wishing you would maybe think before you speak sometimes. Your experiences aren’t all universal.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Bill said shortly, turning his body so that he was facing the stage. Mike met Stan’s eyes and could tell that they were on the same exasperated page. Of course Bill wasn’t interested in hearing out their concerns. Of course.

“I think you don’t want Mike to transfer to MK because it makes you feel special to be the only one that knows how things work there,” Stan called, loud enough to get Bill’s attention (as well as the attention of the two families of guests on either side of them). “I know it’s not because you don’t want to share space for the sake of the relationship. You would never run into each other in the Magic Kingdom. Trillions of people work there. No.” Stan paused, and Bill’s face twitched like he was thinking about turning away again. To his credit, he didn’t. “We’ve seen how much you love giving tours and being in charge. MK is your turf. Why don’t you just say so instead of making things up?”

There was a tense silence in which Mike and Stan stared at Bill, and Bill stared at the floor. In the background, one of the performers was doing a solo number, but Mike was beyond caring about what was happening on stage, except that they were totally wasting money by not watching. Bill’s eyes kept edging up, like he was thinking the same thing about how much dinner and a show had cost, but he resisted for a good two minutes. Finally, he seemed to make a decision, and rolled his shoulders back, looking first at Stan and then slowly over to Mike.

“Okay, fine,” Bill said quietly. “I like having MK to myself. It’s selfish. That’s why I didn’t say it.”

The soloist on stage finished, and a parade of waiters waltzed through the audience area, dropping off chicken, biscuits, corn, and beans as they passed by. Mike noted without interest that they hadn’t even eaten their cornbread yet. He really should have cancelled this reservation.

“I’m still gonna work at MK,” Mike told Bill, “whether you want me to or not.”

(Truthfully, Mike had been on the fence about moving to MK immediately versus waiting a little bit for a DAK position to open up, but Bill had pissed him off badly enough that his mind was now made up. Mike figured it was a good thing that he didn’t get mad that often, because he was learning quickly that the probability of his making snap decisions increased by at least 3000% when he was upset.)

Bill stared back at him, eyes empty. “Well, I can’t stop you, can I?”

That was the wrong thing to say. Stan’s expression was twisting sour again, and before Mike could reach out to keep him from speaking, he was addressing Bill pointedly. “Why not ‘I’m happy for you’, Bill? Why not just ‘okay’? Mike’s wanted to transfer for a really long time! You could at least pretend to be happy!”

“But I’m not happy,” Bill said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world, “and I don’t want to lie.”

Mike thought about his parents and the lie he could have lived, and felt his stomach burn as his next words came out of his mouth. “Sometimes it’s better to be kind than it is to be honest.”

“Everything okay over here?” Their waiter came back through, and Mike watched, detached, as Bill downed his sangria again so that he could get yet another refill. “Food all right?”

“It’s great,” Stan lied, jerking forward and beginning to spoon beans on to his plate. “I think some drink refills are in order, though.” He put down the spoon and drank heavily from his sangria for emphasis.

“If you’re sure,” the waiter said warily.

“We’re sure,” Stan said, firm and direct. After the waiter was gone, he turned back to Bill. “See? A little lie. Didn’t hurt him, no one was put on the spot, we’re getting more sangria. Easy.”

Bill huffed and adjusted his shoulders again. “It’s not that easy for me. I’m surprised - we’ve been together for what, four months? Five? And I thought--”

“You didn’t think wrong, Bill,” Mike assured him. “We know you don’t like to lie or break promises. We know that you’re an action guy and like to jump into things. We know you like to be in control...and we like those things. We do. It’s just...it’s tough, you know? Because sometimes all of your - I don’t know, Red Ranger personality things make it kind of hard to talk to you.”

For the first time all night, the corners of Bill’s mouth twitched up. “Red Ranger?”

“Sure.” Mike smiled back, trying to keep with the positivity. “I’m Blue Ranger, Stan’s Green Ranger.”

“Eddie’s the Pink Ranger,” Stan mumbled to himself, giggling into his sangria.

“The point is,” Mike continued, “we kind of feel like you’re not hearing us when we talk to you. That’s all.”

The show was resuming, and Bill’s eyes flickered up to the stage again. Mike felt his own smile slip away. Hadn’t they just talked about Bill not listening? He could practically feel Bill’s attention drifting off.

“Bill,” Mike said again, trying very hard to be gentle. “What do you think?”

Bill’s eyes flickered hesitantly back towards Mike. “I...don’t know.”

And there it was.

“You don’t know?” Stan asked, punctuating the question with a piercing stare. Mike didn’t blame Bill for flinching away from that particular Stan look.

“I’ve had a lot to drink,” Bill admitted. “I feel okay right now, but I have a feeling when I go to use the bathroom…”

“That’s when you know,” Mike agreed.

“Okay.” Stan nodded, brow furrowed in thought. “Okay, we’ll sleep on it, but Bill - I know you’re set in your ways, but if you really don’t think you can compromise…”

“Don’t,” Bill said softly. Mike averted his eyes out of habit. He never knew what to do when people got emotional in front of him. He loved his parents very much, but he hadn’t had very much practice in feelings response with his ex-military father and strong, solemn mother. “I don’t want to think about that yet.”

Mike looked hard at Stan, who was examining Bill’s face. From the intensity in his eyes, Mike knew that Stan’s mind was made up, and not the way that Bill was leaning. It was going to be up to Mike to make the final decision.

He didn’t want that kind of responsibility, especially tonight. He’d had a lot to drink, too.

“You have to know it’s a possibility,” Stan urged. “We can’t just keep ignoring things, Bill. That’s how we ended up here.”

“You’re one to talk about ignoring things,” Bill shot back, obviously sensing what Stan was getting at. “I could say the same stuff about you as I did earlier about Richie. If we weren’t around, would you even take--”

“Don’t finish that sentence,” Stan said, voice like the edge of a knife. Mike leaned back in his chair, wanting to put physical space between himself and whatever was about to go down. He’d never heard Stan use that tone before. “Do you hear yourself when you talk? Do you hear yourself?”

“I’m just trying to be fair,” Bill said, splaying out his arms. “I don’t know why you guys are attacking me specifically, but it’s messed up, and I’m not--”

“It’s called constructive criticism,” Stan snarled, “ever heard of it? Has anyone ever criticized you before, Bill? Or did you just storm out on everyone that has, like whatever professor you mentioned earlier? That’s not how life works. You can’t just leave-- ”

“Actually, I think I can,” Bill said abruptly, pushing his chair back and standing up. He wobbled for a moment (the sangria was obviously taking effect) and then righted himself, glaring down at Mike and Stan. The kids in the family behind him yelled at him to get out of the way of their view, and he took several steps off to the side. “I’m gonna call Bev and see if she can pick me up. Goodbye.”

Mike watched him walk away, feeling like he should call out but not knowing how. Stan’s eyes were fixed on the stage for the first time all evening.

“This show is garbage,” he said after several long, heavy seconds. “Do you want to go buy a beef brisket sandwich at the Chuck Wagon Food Truck?

Mike looked despondently down at the chicken in front of him.

“Is that what you want, sweetheart?” he asked carefully.

Stan took a deep breath and held out his hand to Mike, palm up. Mike looked at it for a moment, a quiet smile threatening to cross his face.

“I want what you want,” Stan said, expression sad, but firm.

Mike took his hand, and felt a weight lift off of his chest.

“Let’s go eat a sandwich,” Mike said, turning around to see if their waiter was nearby. “Check, please!”

[inevera13]

All I Want For Christmas Is Stability (MLB Secret Santa Exchange)

For @annfree , happy holidays!!

AO3 - Six years after graduating high school, Marinette and Alya, amongst most of their old classmates, find themselves in a Christmas party hosted by Chloé. Life seems to be running smoothly...for almost everyone. Sometimes you just need to have a little breakdown!

"Well...the decorations are lovely," Alya commented hesitantly while Marinette and her looked around at the room covered in gold, "they're really, um, festive."

Marinette sighed, she really didn't want to be there, celebrating Christmas in a room full of people she either didn't know or didn't know anymore. She had tried to keep in contact with the people from her middle school and high school days, but as time passed what little contact they had kept thinning until it was none at all. All of them were now around 24 years old, just like her, and six years changed people, maybe not enough to make this a shocking experience (she was an adult, dammit!) but Marinette couldn't help but feel a little...jarred. 

"There are so many people here, Alya, where did Chloé even find all these people?" The panicked girl whispered.

"Mari! Don't be like that! Give this party a chance."

"I'm trying!" 

Alya sighed, "okay, listen, I feel you. And I'm sorry I dragged you here, but I really do think it'll do you good to get out of the house for a bit. Ever since the breakup, you've been holed up in there..."

"Alya, do you even realize that he's probably gonna be here?" Marinette asked flatly.

"Well...yes. But it's time you face him!"

"I think you should have let me decide for myself."

"I'm sorry." A pause, "but! You came, didn't you? I know that if you really didn't want to come, you wouldn't have."

"Well...! I was just curious! But I'm starting to deeply regret it... Maybe I should just go home, I'm not doing anything here anyway and-" Marinette was cut off by someone patting her on the back with considerable strength. She had half a mind to roundhouse kick whoever had tried to attack her but recognized Kim's voice before she could make the night even worse.

"Hey girls! Long time no see!" 

"Hi, Kim!" Alya greeted pleasantly, "how're things?"

"Well, pretty good! I'm getting married in like two months, the opening of our gym went amazing...things are really working out so far. How about you?"

Marinette giggled nervously, she really didn't want to talk about how her life was going. Her online store was faring well, but besides that everything felt like a train wreck about to happen right in front of her eyes, and she didn't know how to stop it. 

"Going great too! I'm working on a big story right now," Alya smiled. "Can't wait to see you guys getting married though! Are Alix and Max here too?"

"Yeah! They're off...somewhere," he laughed. "You, Marinette? Everything okay?"

The girl froze, champagne glass halfway to her lips, "oh, uh, hah, you know...things are going, uh, smooth..."

He nodded, looking entirely like he didn't know, "I see. Anyway, good seeing you two, it really has been a while! We should meet up sometime before the wedding! You guys take care, see you!" Kim finished, walking away to talk to someone else.

The three of them knew that wouldn't happen.

"Mariboo, my girl, my babe...you know I love you anyway, right? But you have to get it together, girl," Alya spoke softly, like she might hurt her, and it only made her feel a lot worse.

"I-I know. And I will." She just didn't feel like that would happen right now. Her friend nodded at her solemnly, "I know."

It had been a rough month, a rough year really, but she would pull through, even if everything felt incredibly overwhelming at the moment. 

Alya shook her arm, "oh, look!"

Marinette looked. At the entrance, stood Adrien, someone who she hadn't seen in a long, long time, but still missed dearly. She had gotten over her crush (somewhat) but what she felt for him ran deeper, the admiration and love she had for him never faded, so it sent a tingle down her back to see him again. She didn't think she could ever tire of looking at him, at his kind eyes and soft smile.

She wasn't entirely sure why they had stopped hanging out, after all he and Nino were still friends, but Alya, the girlfriend herself, said she didn't get to see Adrien much either. He was a busy person after all, what with his job as a teacher and as a part-time model for Gabriel.

"Oh, wow. It's been a long time since I've seen him, hasn't it?" She sighed. Alya rolled her eyes, "yes, it has. I see the crush coming back already."

"Don't even start, I don't have time for any kind of crush right now." She really didn't, which would absolutely not stop said crush from secretly reblossoming.

There was a clinking sound.

"Everyone!" Chloé's called dramatically through a microphone she held while standing on top of a large stage where a band played softly. "I would like to thank you for coming to my Christmas ball. Now that the guest of honor has arrived, we can really get this party going!" Chloé laughed and winked at Adrien, "he's a hero after all." 

Marinette glanced at Adrien, noticing that he looked nervous - something that didn't usually happen to him - and frowned. 

"What does she even mean 'a hero'...?" 

"Who knows? I feel like Chloé has been getting progressively weirder." 

"She really has," an amused voice spoke from behind them, making both girls jump. 

"Jesus, Sabrina! Don't do that!" Alya choked out, clutching her chest while Marinette laughed it out. 

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you! I guess I have light feet," she smiled. 

"Sabrina, hi! You really do! It's been so long, how have things been going these past few years?" Marinette asked, trying to cover up the fact that she had been bad-mouthing Sabrina's (ex?) best friend just a few seconds ago. 

The girl, standing confidently and clad in a beautiful turquoise gown, gave them a knowing smile, "oh, it's been great! I'm still studying, so I'm trying to focus on that. I also have some projects on the side... I can say I'm happy with my life, you know? And you, girls! Update me!" 

Marinette once again found herself sipping nervously from her (second) champagne glass, letting Alya take on the conversation as she tried to make herself look smaller. 

***

"When does Nino get here, anyway?" Marinette asked, exasperatedly, "I really wanna go sleep in the car, Alya." 

"Yeah, he's late... Shouldn't take much longer, though. You know how his boss has been running him ragged, working up to being a lawyer is even harder than I thought..." 

Marinette released a shaky sigh, "I'm gonna go to the bathroom, okay?" 

Alya nodded and she went off, hoping not to find anyone else that wanted to ask her how her life was going since graduating high school. She was already on her fourth glass of champagne and she expected to start feeling them some time. After leaving the bathroom, Marinette felt better. She had splashed a little water on her makeup-less cheeks and given herself a pep talk, she was ready to-

Did- Did someone just spill their drink all over her?

Yes. 

"Oh-! Oh my God, Marinette, I am so sorry!" Adrien looked at her, horrified.

Marinette had to repress a groan because of fucking course it had to be him. Instead, she tried to put on a sane looking smile while pointedly not looking down at her now ruined red gown. 

"Uh, hi Adrien...it's okay, honestly." She made an attempt at laughing it off, "sucks that we had to meet like this after spending so long without seeing each other, but i'll take what I can get."

"It really does," he started, rubbing the back of his neck. "And - obviously - i'll pay for whatever damage I caused! I really am sorry."

That dress was one of her originals and Marinette knew that stain would never, ever, leave. "It's fine, Adrien! I know it was an accident," this time her smile was more real, he was too endearing...

"I'm just gonna go try and do some damage control..." She said, motioning for the bathroom. She knew there was nothing she could do for the dress at this point, but at least she could go bang her head against a wall for a few minutes and pretend like everything was okay.

"Oh, uh, sure! Do you mind if I wait for you so we can catch up?"

And the look he directed at her was so genuinely hopeful that she just couldn't say no.

***

So that was how Marinette now found herself alone with Adrien in a huge balcony, after months of mutual silence.

"So!" Adrien almost shouted into the silent night, making them both wince, "how have things been?"

Marinette had been expecting this question, she really had! She had been bracing herself for it. It wasn't like she hadn't been asked the same thing a hundred times that night. 

But this...this was different. It was Adrien, who she knew had a special place in her heart, no matter what. And they were alone, and it was so quiet out here and, frankly, she was starting to get cold...

"Hey...hey, Mari? I'm sorry," he moved closer to hug her and she realized that, yes, she was crying like a baby. 

It only made her angrier. She still hadn't seen Nath - which she had been mentally preparing for for two whole days - Nino was late, and all she wanted was to cuddle Alya on the couch while watching some stupid re-run on TV. She definitely didn't want any of whatever this was! None of this crying in her high school crush's arms in a stupidly big balcony bullshit - in a ruined dress, no less!

"I'm sorry Mari..."

"Why the hell are you sorry?" She spat out. "You don't even know any of what happened for me to be like this, I'm just being dramatic, just- leave me alone, I feel so pathetic..."

But she missed Chat Noir, and she was angry at Nath, and upset over everything, and, frankly, she felt exhausted. She felt like her career was going nowhere. Despite the store not going bad, it also wasn't doing great enough to sustain her. Not that it mattered, who had time for eating when you had to work on commissions, anyway? She missed Tikki forcing her to eat, she even missed Chat's stupid puns. She looked up at Adrien then, remembering that his own father was Hawkmoth, and felt even more pathetic. Here she was, crying in the arms of someone who was probably suffering a lot more than her.

Marinette dabbed at her cheeks with the calloused pads of her fingers, "I'm really sorry. I drank a little too much and I'm being a brat. I really need to get some sleep before I chew someone's head off..."

"Don't say that. What you're feeling is valid, Marinette. Your feelings are no less than mine, or anyone else's. Everyone's allowed to be in a bad mood once in a while. I've never seen you spreading anything if not love, positivity, and kindness..." he paused, still looking into her eyes. "It's okay that you're having a rough time, it doesn't mean it'll last forever. And I know you probably know that, but if it were me, I would like to be reassured so...this is me reassuring you," he smirked.

"We all get overwhelmed sometimes, doesn't make us any less strong. Cry away, scream at me all you want. I promise I'll even like it! I know it would be helping you. I'm in a good place, and I like to try bringing as many people up with me as I can when that happens."

He said all of this with a soft smile on his face, and with such understanding in his eyes, that it made Marinette feel like throwing up. Instead, she just cried harder, and for a long time. She didn't know how long, but enough for her throat to feel raw.

When she finally stopped, her eyes feeling strangely dry and her insides feeling empty, Adrien was still holding onto her, and for a moment he reminded her so much of Chat that she just let the confession escape her.

"I just really miss him..."

He hesitated for a few moments, "who?"

"Chat Noir. I really, really miss him. And you know what's even more upsetting? That that's genuinely the most bothersome, painful thing in my life right now," she inhaled deeply before letting it all out again in one heavy exhale, trying to rid herself of the feeling of heaviness.

Adrien looked at her with something akin to wonder in his expression. For a moment he just stared, his lips slowly parting, making Marinette a little uncomfortable, "Adrien...?"

Then...recognition and disbelief.

"Boy..." he exclaimed breathlessly, "do I have some news for you..."

A big thank you to @mlsecretsanta for making this exchange possible!

[queenofcats17]

So I saw these posts here, and decided to write something.

Hell’s Studio belongs to @doodledrawsthings

Even though he’d never admit it, Sammy liked working for Joey Drew. Sure, the man had the self-preservation instincts of a lemming, but he was patient and understanding towards his employees. However, because Joey had the self-preservation of a lemming, he was prone to doing things that had disastrous consequences for the people around him. The ink machine had been one of those decisions that had resulted in consequences for people other than Joey. Namely Sammy himself. The cartoons that had sprung from it, those Sammy didn’t mind. It was the constant leakage of the machine that got on his nerves. It seemed like every day his work was ruined because ink bled through the ceiling and drenched his clothing and music sheets. He had gone through so many shirts he’d stopped wearing anything nice to the office. 

That day, he expected it would be like any other. He’d brought an extra change of clothes, expecting his clothes would be ruined yet again. He went to his office, stowed the clothes out of reach, then set to work. He heard the telltale rattle of the pipes and braced for the impact. There was much more ink than usual in the downpour. And it...It felt strange. The ink seemed to coat every inch of him, but when he opened his eyes, his clothes weren’t stained. He felt...different. Then he caught sight of his arms. They did not look like his arms. They were black and dripping ink all over the place. He felt his head, and found it similarly inky and featureless. The second this realization came about, he was up the stairs and headed towards Joey’s office. He garnered more than a few stares as he did so, given his appearance. The toons stopped what they were doing and followed after him, recognizing him only by his screaming of Joey’s name. The music director slammed open the door to Joey’s office and stalked inside, pulling Joey up by his lapels. 

“FIX THIS, IDIOT.” He growled.

“Sammy?” Joey asked, a little shaken.

“Who the fuck else would it be?” Sammy snapped. “Now fix this!” Joey stumbled back, grabbing for his book.

“Well, I’m not exactly sure what to do here...” He said, beginning to flip the pages. “I’m not even sure what happened to you.”

“So what you’re saying is, you don’t know how to fix this?” Sammy grew eerily calm for a moment.

“Well.....No.” Joey said. The toons and Henry burst in just in time to stop Sammy from attempting to throttle Joey. The creator ducked behind a very confused Boris as Henry hoisted Sammy up.

“Sam- Sammy calm- Oof!” Henry tried to calm Sammy down while the other man flailed wildly, still trying to get at Joey and screaming curses as he struggled.

“Whoa! Whoa! Cool it Lawrence!” Bendy said.

“DON’T TELL ME TO CALM DOWN! I’M GOING TO KILL HIM FOR THIS!” Sammy struggled even harder. “HE BROUGHT IN THAT DAMN MACHINE!”

“Sammy! I don’t want to have to put you in a corner!” Henry said, adopting his dad voice.  

“I’m a grown ass man, Henry! You can’t put me in a corner!”

“I will if you don’t stop it!”

Sammy stopped struggling for a moment, as if considering whether or not Henry would actually put him in a timeout in the corner like a child. He seemed to decide that, yes, Henry would do that, and stopped attempting to kill Joey for the moment.

“Sammy, go take a break.” Bendy said, rubbing what would probably be his temples. “I’m gonna try to figure this out with Joey, alright?”

“Fine.” Sammy hunched his shoulders and stormed out of the room, his body dripping ink as he went.

.

.

Sammy wasn’t able to go home for the next couple of days. Whatever had happened to him, it seemed to have put a tether on him. He couldn’t leave the studio or his form would begin to collapse. This gave Sammy ample ammunition to complain, and complain he did, but it was less than usual. He spent a lot of time in his office, listening to the radio and pouring over music sheets. It seemed as though this transformation had genuinely scared him. Which led him to the colored ink.

“Don’t the toons drink this stuff like alcohol?” Sammy asked, holding up a bottle of colored ink. He’d been following Henry around for the past half an hour or so, dressed in a ratty pair of Boris’ old overalls.

“Well....yeah,” Henry said. “But I’d probably advise against you doing that since you’re still kind of human-” Sammy took a large swig. “Or just ignore me. That works too.” It wasn’t like he’d expected anything else from Sammy. He shuffled off to his desk to keep working, leaving Sammy to find the toons so he could experiment with the colored ink. He showed up in Bendy’s office, an empty purple ink well in his hand.

“It just occurred to me that the fate of my human form rests in the hands of Joey Drew.” He announced. “I’m doomed, aren’t I?” He hadn’t yet noticed, but his previously black inky body had turned a very nice lavender.

“Sammy, you haven’t been drinking colored ink, have you?” Alice asked, rushing to take the ink well from him.

“I thought I’d try it.” Sammy said, seating himself in a chair in front of Bendy’s desk. “Since I’m literally made of ink now. Oh God. I’m going to be stuck like this for the rest of my life.”

“No, no you’re not.” Alice said. “Joey will fix this.”

“It’s Joey.” Sammy said. “I’m never going to be normal again.”

“Let’s try a different color.” Bendy opened his desk drawer, taking out a collection of colored inks. “Pick your poison Lawrence.” Sammy had devolved into frantic muttering to himself. So this was what he was like when he was scared. It was frankly a little off-putting. Of course, Sammy smiling was even more strange.

“Why don’t we try yellow?” Alice suggested, pushing the yellow bottle towards Sammy. He eyed it, then knocked it back. The toons watched as yellow began to replace purple on Sammy’s body. His frantic muttering quickly turned into giggles, which turned into roaring laughter. This was definitely weirder than seeing Sammy scared.

“You know, it’s actually kind of funny.” He said as he laughed. “Joey and Henry are the ones who love cartoons so much, but I’m the one who gets half turned into one!” He held up his four fingered hand to his face and laughed harder.

“Okay, I’m uncomfortable.” Bendy said. “Anyone else uncomfortable?” Boris nodded. Alice made a noncommittal shrugging motion. 

“Let’s see what red does.” Bendy muttered to himself, sliding the red bottle over. It took a minute or so to get Sammy to stop laughing enough to get the ink down. Then the red spread across his body and he stopped laughing. 

“Huh...I don’t actually feel that much angrier.” He frowned and looked at the bottle. “Are you sure it’s supposed to work?” All the toons just stared at him. Red had done nothing to him. Good lord, just how angry was he on a regular basis?

“Sammy, I think we need to get you into anger management.” Alice said gently. Sammy just rolled his eyes and grabbed a different bottle. This one turned out to be blue, and a bad decision. 

“Shit, now I feel worse.” Sammy muttered, turning blue. “Can I have the yellow again? I liked the way that felt.”

“Sure.” Bendy slid the yellow bottle back to Sammy, settling back in his chair. It was kind of fun to watch Sammy sample a part of their world, not to mention seeing how it affected him. He’d been a little surprised when Sammy hadn’t seemed drunk after drinking the ink. Evidently it just changed his emotions. Sammy was soon back to laughing. The toons found out that afternoon that Sammy was actually rather pleasant to be around when he was in a good mood. They’d been too freaked out last time to spend any time with him, but now he was stuck with them until Joey fixed him. While under the influence of the yellow ink, he played some happy tunes on the piano jammed into a corner of Bendy’s office and danced with Alice. He was a surprisingly good dancer, something Alice filed away in her memory for further use. It was nice. 

Eventually the ink did wear off, but Sammy still stuck around. He didn’t feel too comfortable going out and mingling with the other employees looking the way he did. He spent more time with the toons during his week as an ink creature than he ever had with anyone else in the studio, save maybe Susie. It was comforting for him to be around them. They didn’t look at him strangely, even the way he was. 

“Sammy, you done with those songs yet?” Bendy asked, swinging himself inside on the doorknob. 

“Not yet. I keep dripping on the paper and it ruins everything.” Behind Sammy was a pile of papers about as tall as he was. Each was smudged beyond recognition with ink. The music director was trying to put on a facade of calm, but Bendy could see how agitated he was by how much Sammy was melting. 

“Just take a few deep breaths, okay Sammy?” Bendy put his hand on Sammy’s shoulder. “You’re gonna be okay.” 

“You don’t know that, boss.” Sammy’s voice was soft, defeated. 

“Don’t you have any faith in me?” Bendy asked, feigning a hurt expression. “Honestly, I’m insulted.” He smiled when he saw Sammy rolling his eyes. 

“I’m gonna go see how Alice is doing.” Sammy said, getting up. “I need a break.” 

By the end of the week, Sammy was back to normal. Joey had managed to pull something out of his ass and reverse engineer whatever black magic had done this to Sammy in the first place. Sammy almost cried when he could see his skin again. He was gone for the next couple of days, both by choice and by order of Bendy. When he came back, things almost felt the same as normal. Except...Sammy spent his free time with the toons. He sat and listened as Susie and Alice sang, played music with Boris, drank with Bendy. It wasn’t the same as before, but it certainly put Sammy in a better mood. Everyone seemed to agree that this normal was a better one than before. Even if Sammy did seem a little more peeved off at Joey than before. 

[f4liveblogarchives]

Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #107

Sat April 7 2018 [00:42:57] <Wackd> Folks, a big hand for our regular artist for the next three years, Mr. John Buscema! [00:43:41] <maxwellelvis> This is actually a good reason to cheer. [00:44:21] <Wackd> So! First order of business--get all this fucking ice out of here. [00:44:22] <Bocaj> Woo John Buscema! [00:44:27] <Bocaj> You're better than some other johns [00:44:34] <maxwellelvis> He is a DAMN FINE artist http://static.flickr.com/2700/4325639064_d49953295d_b.jpg [00:45:04] <Wackd> well uh he DID give iron man a creepy human face [00:45:08] <Wackd> so let's not overstate things [00:46:13] <Wackd> So Johnny has to basically insta-evaporate the ice as soon as it melts back to water, so that no water touches any wires. [00:46:41] <Wackd> Clearly throwing fire at it is the best way to accomplish this and this is all perfectly safe. [00:48:33] <Wackd> The procedure works! [00:48:52] <Wackd> And now Ben can switch between being the Thing and being human at will! [00:49:34] <Wackd> (Reed says this is something Ben "didn't expect", but for the record, this is something that was mentioned two issues ago.) [00:50:27] <Wackd> Right now, it takes Ben strain and effort to transform, but Reed assures him it'll get easier with time. [00:53:18] <Wackd> GOD i just want these two idiots to be happy without falling into a pit of mutual self-loathing

[00:54:31] <Bocaj> Damn't alicia [00:54:47] <Wackd> like, i think this is why i ship them so hard, is because seeing them work through their issues and be happy together would be SO SATISFYING [00:55:13] <Wackd> i dunno how i'm gonna feel about the, like, three other love interests ben is gonna have at some point [00:55:22] <maxwellelvis> I think this is like, the first of at least TWO times in the 70's where Ben is human briefly. [00:55:58] <maxwellelvis> Well they try to redo the two-person pity-party ping-pong with Sharon Ventura, but not nearly as deftly, I think. [00:56:41] <Wackd> We'll get to that when we get to that. [00:57:15] <Wackd> So anyway Johnny sees Ben and Alicia happy and immediately starts angsting about Crystal. [00:57:47] <Wackd> "Not a single word from her--since she rejoined the Inhumans!" Johnny. Buddy. That happened EARLIER TODAY. [00:58:07] <Wackd> I'm pretty sure Sue didn't even know this was a thing that happened until you said that, that's how recent this was. [01:01:38] <Wackd> So Johnny's sulking transitions into how he's the youngest and no one takes him seriously and so on and so on. [01:02:07] <Wackd> Which okay fine but Johnny, right now you're angsting that your girlfriend left you because she was in mortal peril, and hasn't called you since she left like an hour ago. [01:02:16] <Wackd> That--that's kinda hard to take seriously! [01:02:49] <maxwellelvis> Not to mention worrying, because the last time you got like this, you nearly committed a war crime. [01:02:57] <Wackd> Also true! [01:02:58] <Bocaj> Oh right [01:05:05] <Wackd> hahaha ok sure sue

[01:05:10] <Bocaj> Look, who hasn't committed a war crime in the throes of passion? [01:05:20] <Bocaj> I haven't but I assume that at least three out of five people have [01:06:07] <Bocaj> I'm constantly surprised that Reed/Sue is the one marvel marriage that has stood the test of time [01:06:15] <Bocaj> I know the doylistic reasons why [01:06:18] <maxwellelvis> And I'm pretty sure if he tried to pull that a second time, the others might not FEEL like pulling your bacon out of the frying pan. [01:06:20] <Bocaj> But I'm still constantly shocked [01:07:01] <Wackd> Okay so I wanna make it absolutely clear, Sue's talking a load of bullshit, and this "bad temperedness" has only been happening the last, like, page or so.

[01:07:31] <Wackd> The Four haven't gotten along any better or worse than usual in the past few issues, give or take Johnny, again, nearly committing a war crime. [01:08:35] <Wackd> Sue contemplates a temporary separation but says that being apart from Reed would be more than she could bare, and therefore she can sympathize with Johnny. [01:08:46] <Wackd> Johnny is busy burning Crystal's name into the roof of a water tower. [01:09:35] <Bocaj> Have we seen hatemonger yet? [01:10:08] <maxwellelvis> Yes. [01:10:08] <maxwellelvis> That was ages ago. [01:10:10] <Wackd> Yeah. [01:10:29] <Bocaj> Is it perhaps Hatemonger or Hatemonger's sidekick Irritationmonger? [01:10:48] <maxwellelvis> I still commend Kirby for the whole idea of making him Hitler dressed as an Inquisitor. [01:10:56] <maxwellelvis> Makes it absolutely sure no one would sympathize with him. [01:11:23] <Wackd> https://f4liveblogarchives.tumblr.com/post/171641387078/fantastic-four-vol-1-21 [01:11:26] <maxwellelvis> I think at this time, the Hate-Monger who would next return would actually be the Man-Beast in disguise, and operating a cult. [01:11:36] <maxwellelvis> Using Brother Sun and Sister Moon as his puppets. [01:11:49] <maxwellelvis> (Can you tell that this plot came when the Moonies were in the news?) [01:11:56] <Wackd> Turns out Ben with these new powers is a real jerk. [01:12:14] <Bocaj> Dammit ben [01:12:18] <Wackd> First he turns into the Thing in the middle of a crowded train to freak people out. Alicia doesn't like it. [01:12:34] <Bocaj> Wait he was a jerk without the new powers too [01:12:46] <Wackd> Then he lays flat some hijackers, and then wakes them up so he can wail on them more. [01:12:53] <Wackd> Alicia REALLY doesn't like it. [01:13:06] <maxwellelvis> I'm assuming the later period where he loses his powers entirely and uses a Thing-shaped suit of power armor he's less of a jerk. [01:13:39] <Bocaj> It could look like anything so why did he choose a thing shaped suit [01:14:02] <maxwellelvis> Because the duality of Ben: He doesn't want to be the Thing, but he also feels weird NOT being the Thing [01:14:13] <Wackd> aw jeez poor alicia

[01:14:51] <Bocaj> Dammit ben [01:14:54] <maxwellelvis> Okay, NOW I can believe something's messing with their emotions. [01:15:04] <Wackd> Oh yeah, absolutely. [01:15:32] <maxwellelvis> Something is slowly but surely magnifying their negative traits. [01:15:35] <Wackd> Though I do know the Reed/Sue split is coming so I was half-betting on it happening here. What with Sue saying maybe it'd be good for them to split up for a bit. [01:15:57] <Wackd> But nah, Ben hurting Alicia seals it. Emotion fuckery is happening. [01:16:19] <maxwellelvis> Reed's even more distant than usual, Sue's taking it in less and less stride, Johnny's even MORE pining for Crystal than usual, and Ben is so angry he's taking it out on everyone around him. [01:17:10] <maxwellelvis> This isn't DC, so we can cross Psycho Pirate off the list of suspects. [01:17:51] <Wackd> So, another bit of timeline fuckery brought on by me trying to corral all the Kirby stuff to one side. [01:18:27] <Wackd> We here get our introduction to Janus, who lets himself into Reed's lab, shoots Reed, and lets himself into the Negative Zone. [01:19:08] <Wackd> Next issue, Janus will be revealed to have, like, some kind of second personality or something? And then he'll let Annihilus into our world in issue 109. [01:19:31] <Wackd> Anyway. [01:20:33] <Wackd> We also get a brief Sue interlude where she visits Franklin. She tries to sneak up on him invisibly, but he spots her. [01:20:44] <Wackd> Despite her insistence that she didn't make a sound. [01:21:16] <Wackd> It's weird to me that the craft she took to get there was running silent--though weirder things have happened--but it certainly wasn't invisible. [01:22:06] <Wackd> Anyway, Ben and Johnny get into one of their usual fights, but much angrier than usual. Reed breaks it up so they can solve the Janus problem. [01:22:37] <Wackd> And cliffhanger. [01:22:48] <maxwellelvis> Janus is using his negative powers to- D'OH!I I called it and I didn't even realize it. [01:23:01] <maxwellelvis> I honestly forgot Janus was a thing, and that we were coming up to him again. [01:23:04] <Wackd> I mean. [01:23:07] <Wackd> It's possible? [01:23:09] <Wackd> I dunno. [01:23:25] <maxwellelvis> How defined was his negative powers in the Kirby version? [01:24:22] <Wackd> He mostly had the power to change the world to his whim in physical ways. I don't remember him changing emotions. [01:24:31] <Wackd> I did look at the real 108 already--that hasn't changed. [01:24:40] <maxwellelvis> Ah [01:24:43] <Wackd> But I wouldn't put it past Stan to pull something like that out of his ass. [01:25:05] <maxwellelvis> That one just had Janus in it, no Annihilus, right? [01:25:22] <Wackd> Yeah. [01:25:35] <maxwellelvis> Ah. [01:26:05] <maxwellelvis> Also, I want to put it out there, Janus is very forgettable as a villain. [01:26:07] <maxwellelvis> Visually at least. [01:28:36] <Wackd> Huh. He didn't reappear at all until 2001. [01:28:42] <maxwellelvis> Y'see? [01:28:51] <maxwellelvis> He's just a guy with a bad haircut and a worst costume. [01:28:56] <Wackd> Yeah. [01:28:58] <maxwellelvis> Or the other way around. [01:29:23] <maxwellelvis> And it looks like in the story to come, he doesn't realize how short his arms are. [01:29:35] <Wackd> Literally the only interesting thing about him is that he's Kirby's last Four villain, and circumstances have made it so that makes him LESS appealing.