#I also need to drink water and sleep and maybe cry some more

[darkwing-katy]

Husband doesn’t love the ending, but he likes it enough. He says that it was a decent ending for a show, it didn’t feel like it was pulled out of nowhere, and it was a good attempt to wrap everything up.

At the very least, he’s not one of those people who think the ending sucks, so I guess we can stay married.

Meanwhile you’ve got me shuddering and shaking and bawling my eyes out at the ending because I still think it’s absolutely PERFECT and

BENJAMIN LINUS YOU GET YOUR ASS IN THAT CHURCH RIGHT NOW YOU ADORABLE BUG-EYED MAN (I want to drag him into there myself dammit)

[filet-o-feelings]

I forgot getting into this bed at my parents' house is basically an Olympic sport for someone of my height.

My parents got an alarm so I'm now locked in and can't even open a window. It's hot in here and nice outside and I just want to open a window 😭

[slytherinshua]

2AM CRISIS

genre. comfort. sickfic. warnings. reader is sick specifically throwing up so don't read if you find that rly gross... some comments abt it being reader's first time sleeping over and the hyungs being extremely cautious lmfao. not proofread. pairing. yujin x fem!reader. wc. 1k. request. requested by @theriizeler a/n. i hope this makes u feel better dodo :(( first time writing yujin i hope i did okay he's rly such a sweetheart :( ppl need to write more for him cause i get not writing for him cause of his age but he's always skipped over...

“Ew…” Yujin mumbled, crouched on the floor of the bathroom with you as you heaved again. For this being your first time sleeping over (with extremely watchful eyes from Hao and Hanbin), it definitely was not going as planned. You had felt something was wrong the entire day, but your boyfriend Yujin was so excited to spend the night with you that you didn’t have the heart to cancel on him.

You should have trusted your gut, though, because now you were throwing up in the toilet in painful gags, your throat burning and a disgusting acidic aftertaste left in your mouth. Was it something you had eaten? Or maybe you had caught a stomach bug at school… You envied your boyfriend for evading it, though you guess it made sense. He rarely attended because of his schedule.

“Stay right there.” Yujin whispered, getting up and leaving the bathroom to find some water for you. 

He didn’t have much experience taking care of someone since he was usually the one always being pampered and babied. He tried his best to recall what his mom and Hao had done when he had gotten sick, but the memory was foggy as he had mostly just slept until he felt better. They did force him to take some horrible-tasting medicine, though… God, did he have to persuade you to do that as well? He’d rather just die than possibly give you an excuse to despise him.

Once he was back with a bottle of water, he handed it to you and sat back down on the floor of the bathroom. It was almost 2 am by now, and he wasn’t exactly sure what to do. He could see tears prickling at your lashes, and his absolute worst fear in the world was seeing you cry. He had no idea how he’d make the tears stop once they started.

You swished your mouth with the water and spat again into the toilet before taking a proper drink. The cool water soothed your burning throat, but it didn’t ease all the discomfort. You still felt like shit, and your stomach still hurt. Your head was also pounding, but it wasn’t as bad as the nausea. 

You turned back to Yujin who’s eyes were blown big and confused, though you could tell he was worried about you. His under eyes looked tired and you suddenly felt really bad for waking him up to go puke in his bathroom. If you had been able to get up without disturbing him, then you would have. But he had fallen asleep clinging to you like a koala, and there was no way to escape his grasp without waking him up.

“I’m sorry… you should just go back to sleep.” You muttered, but Yujin was quick to shake his head.

“I can’t just leave you throwing up by yourself… I’ll stay until you’re ready to go back to bed.” He told you, stroking your hair gently. You tried to breathe steadily in hopes of stopping the urge to throw up again, but it didn’t work. You quickly pushed Yujin’s hand away from your face and discarded more of yesterday’s meal into the bowl. Both you and Yujin grimaced in sync, and he hesitantly pulled back your hair and stroked your back.

The tears that you had tried to keep at bay finally started to stream down your face. You hated everything about the situation. You felt awful, not just physically, but for ruining your first sleepover with Yujin like this. No one wanted to be sitting next to their girlfriend who couldn’t stop vomiting at 2 am. 

“Don’t cry— please, it’s okay, it’s okay.” Yujin panicked. The only thing he could think of doing was offering you more water, which you took amidst broken sobs. He wrapped his arms around you hesitantly, knowing that he always calmed down in your arms. Maybe it would help you, as well. Your sobs slowed a bit, in turn slowing down Yujin’s anxiously beating heart. 

“Hey, what if I just get you a bowl? You can keep it by the bed and then you won’t have to stay here on the floor, hm? We can cuddle too… if you want?” You would’ve smiled at how cute Yujin’s suggestion was if you weren’t too focused on calming yourself down. You knew he was trying his best, and while he was a bit slow on ways to help (you were pretty sure there were some pills to help with nausea that Hanbin had bought last time Gyuvin had felt nauseous during a shoot, but you were certain that your boyfriend had no idea where they were stored), his presence alone was enough to make things a little better.

“Yeah… let’s just do that.” You agreed, standing up slowly. You flushed the toilet and rinsed your mouth once more with water. While Yujin was getting a metal bowl for you, you brushed your teeth, relieved that your mouth no longer had the awful aftertaste of stomach acid.

Once you were back under the blankets on the mattresses that the older members had set up on the floor of the living room (which was almost too overkill as neither you nor Yujin would even think to attempt anything like that, protesting Hao’s carefully thought of set-up would’ve seemed even more suspicious), you felt your stomach ease a bit. 

You curled up against Yujin’s chest, wanting nothing more than to be as close as possible to him. The soap and shampoo scents from his earlier shower lingered on his skin, and you were surprised at how effective it was in stopping your nausea and relaxing you. Your head was still pounding, but you’d take the pain over feeling sick. Maybe you would even be able to get some sleep again like this.

Your boyfriend kissed your forehead and started talking softly, trying to get you to fall asleep to the lull of his voice. It was extremely effective and you found yourself dozing off within minutes. You smiled when the last thing you heard Yujin say was a whispered “feel better soon, princess.”

↳ zerobaseone taglist (bolded could not be tagged): @eternalgyu,, @okshu,, @chewryy,, @haecien,, @sobun1est,,

@emmylksblog,, @talkingsaxy,, @thesunsfullmoon,, @chenleszone

[crystallilytarot]

Things you should do to improve your life, selfcare things you should do for yourself

Choose an animal!

Pile 1

You should choose your battles wisely! Sure, stand up for yourself, but sometimes that fight don't worth it. This will be different for everybody, but there are things you should let go. Not for others, but for your own wellbeing. I think you are planning something, and it's good to be prepared. You probably need to make a decision or to choose between things. I think you still have time, you can search about this and really choose wisely. Maybe you can have some alone time to think about this, but also just for self reflection, finding answers within you. If you can, you should really go to a vacation, just a little trip is okay, even going for a walk. And for some of you especially somewhere near water, maybe even swimming or some water sport. You can try some affirmations to be more positive and optimistic. Though if it's a more serious problem, don't be afraid to seek professional help! Everybody has feelings, and you can let yourself feel, bad or good emotions too. You can cry, if you feel like it, you can be silly, laugh loudly. Don't hide this side of you. For some of you, maybe you can try be naked more at home, to accept yourself and really embrace your sensual side too!

Pile 2

You are a hard working person and it will pay off! But in the meantime, don't drain yourself completely! Try to find balance, rest more, especially have enough sleep. Recharge your energy. You probably worry a lot, but you do everything, so trust the process, trust in the Universe! Yes, you can't see everything, but it's not good to expect bad things and be anxious about it. Maybe you can drink some herbs, but cocoa is good too, anything that makes you feel good and relaxed. You can also try meditation or breathing exercises. Please, don't give up hope, have a little faith! It will be okay! Also have faith in yourself too, you are very capable, you can do it! It doesn't matter what happened in the past, don't listen to negative people. You can plan ahead and that way you won't worry so much. Also do something active, any sport you like, or dance. But I think for some of you, even sex would be a good thing to de-stress yourself. You should let out those frustration, anger and worry in some way you enjoy. You deserve to enjoy your life too. It's not just about working. You can do something creative too, you don't have to be good at it. Maybe there's something you always wanted to try, so why not?

Pile 3

You are very smart, you should know it. I think you have some leader energy, so if you want to be in a higher position, get a promotion, better grades, studying in a good university, it can be anything, you have a very good chance to success! I think you are already working on it, or you working on some project, and it's hard, but don't give up now, you are very close to achieve your goals! Just keep going! But also, take your time to enjoy your achievements too. Don't make a lot of big plan. Not because you can't do it, but you should enjoy your money too. You should probably go out a little more, be with your friends. If there's an event, concert, movie, anything you wanted to go, just go. And things maybe don't always happening as you planned, but it's still can be good, so be open minded in everything. Go with the flow a little bit. You can try something new too, don't be afraid! I think you can try to visualize, if you want to manifest. Also pay attention to your dreams! Finding balance is important here too. You don't have to be wise in every situation, sometimes we can listen to our heart too.

[queensunshinee]

Time Of Our Lives || Part 16

Part 16:

Patrick heard Liana vomiting faintly and it made him jump out of bed. "Li, is everything okay?" he asked from outside the bathroom. "Everything's great, go back to sleep," she stammered, and he sighed. He went to the kitchen and filled a glass of water, entered the bathroom, and saw her sitting on the floor, holding her hair with one hand and gripping the edge of the toilet with the other, trying to steady herself.

"Hey, baby, it's okay. I got you," he mumbled, placing the glass on the sink and sitting down next to Liana, holding her hair in place and tracing gentle shapes on her shoulder. She was shaking from the effort as her free hand also moved to hold onto the toilet.

"Sorry I woke you," she mumbled after a few minutes, not moving her head out of fear of vomiting again. "Don't be silly, is it something you ate?" he asked. His eyebrows furrowed as he handed her the water. "There was only regular milk at work, I probably drank one cup of coffee too many yesterday," she mumbled, and as soon as she finished speaking, she vomited again, and they found themselves in the same position.

"Come on," after a few minutes of this, he helped her get up from the floor. Patrick spread toothpaste on her toothbrush and put it in her mouth, starting to move it side to side. Liana could cry. She felt the tears gathering at the back of her eyes, in moments like these she remembers how gentle and sensitive Patrick can be. If he only wants to, if he cares enough.

He stood in the bathroom while she showered and didn't take his eyes off her, not in a sexual way but out of genuine concern. Because at the end of the day, Patrick loves her, even if sometimes he doesn't know how to show it.

"Shall we go back to sleep?" he asked hopefully. "There's no point, I feel better and in half an hour, I would've had to get up anyway," she shrugged as he handed her a towel. "Li, maybe you should stay home today?" he asked, even though he knew the answer. "I'm on a schedule and in a few days, the construction starts, I need to get there to fix some drawings. If I'm lucky, I might be able to leave earlier," she smiled at him. "I don't know..." he tried to protest. Just ten minutes ago, she was shaking in his hands, and now he has to let her get dressed and leave the house. "I'm fine Pat, really. I'll drink tea today, and I'll be okay," she gave him a small kiss on the lips and left the bathroom, concluding the conversation.

"Then there must be a pillar here, otherwise the whole thing will collapse, and we didn't draw it in the sketch." Art heard Liana's voice from afar, like an echo. He automatically found himself walking towards her, because that's why Art came. He didn't really care about the construction schedule; as far as he was concerned, the longer this thing took, the more time he had to come and see her work. An excuse to be close without being creepy.

"Hey," he gave a small wave, keeping his distance from her conversation but letting her know he was there. "Mr. Donaldson," she mumbled, and so did the guy working with her. Art could say that nothing happens in his body when she calls him 'Mr. Donaldson'. That formality in front of people doesn't affect him at all. It doesn't send a little shiver through him. No memories surface, and he certainly doesn't imagine that one day she might be 'Mrs. Donaldson'. He could say all that, but he tries not to lie too much.

"Miss Levy," he returned a toothy smile, and she walked towards him. "Why are you here?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "Where? On the land I bought?" he was amused. Now that she was closer, he could examine her. He wondered if he would ever get used to the fact that she needed glasses now when she worked. Or the small wrinkle that formed on the side of her mouth from the number of times she smiled and laughed. He wished it was because of him. Too many times he thinks about the number of things he could tell her that would make her laugh enough to deepen that wrinkle.

"You look... green." he mumbled after a few seconds. She was pale, even for her. "It's January, I turn green in January." she retorted. "Liana." he tried a more official tone, a bit more concerned. "I'm fine, Arthur, let it go. Can I ask a favor?" she asked, looking at him with big eyes. Making him raise an eyebrow. There are very few things Liana could ask of him that he wouldn't agree to do. She must know that by now. "Always." he said quicker than his ego was happy to hear. "Can you give me Tashi's number?" she asked and saw his surprised look. "Why? Are you trying to steal my coach for your lazy boyfriend?" he asked, feigning amusement. He didn't understand the endgame of this move. Overall, he didn't understand what Liana had to talk about with Tashi; Liana hates tennis, and from what Art knows, Tashi enjoys talking mostly about tennis. "don't call Patrick lazy, can you give it to me or not?" she didn't answer him. "Will it hurt my interests?" he asked, pulling out his phone. "I would never do that, Art." she sighed, and he sent her the number. There are very few things Art Donaldson wouldn't give to Liana Levy.

Liana waved for a second when she saw Tashi entering the café where they had agreed to meet. She couldn't help but feel tense and wondered how to calm her jittery leg. Why couldn't she just act like a normal person and be more…cool.

"Hey, Liana, what's up? Sorry if I'm late." Tashi was a bit confused. A bit was an understatement. Tashi was very confused. 'Hey, it's Liana, if you have free time, I'd really appreciate it if we could meet' was the message she received yesterday, and that's how she found herself in a café, sitting in front of the girl Art has been trying to fuck without success for God knows how long. Tashi couldn't help but wonder what Art's tennis would look like if he succeeded.

"All good. I'm early." Liana smiled. "Do you want to order something to eat?" she asked, and Tashi waved at the waiter, asking for coffee. Her energy was businesslike. Always in a hurry. Always busy. It didn't matter that she came from the rain. It didn't matter if she was cold or hot. She had no time to waste. "What's up, Liana?" Tashi asked after a few more minutes of awkward silence. "Is this about Art?" she added. "No... Art's not involved." she answered too quickly. Why did she answer so quickly? "So how can I help you?" she asked, taking a sip of the coffee that had just arrived.

"I don't have many friends here." Liana took a deep breath. She knew how it sounded. Desperate and pathetic. But she had no choice. She really didn't know who to talk to. "So... you want me to?" Tashi looked horrified for a moment. Not understanding what situation she had gotten into. "God, no." Liana's eyes widened. "Can you stop with the leg? It's driving me crazy." Tashi said. All the chaotic energy Liana was emitting didn't suit her. It almost threw her off balance.

"I'm pregnant." Liana said quietly right after she took a sip of her tea. She examined Tashi, who looked back at her. "Patrick?" Tashi asked, and Liana looked at her horrified. "Of course it's Patrick's. Whose else?!" she defended herself. "So, congratulations, I guess?" Tashi still didn't understand why she was there. Why her time was being wasted with news about her ex from years ago. If it's not Art's child, if it doesn't become Tashi's problem, why bother filling her brain with this unnecessary information.

"No. I don't want this." Liana said, and Tashi couldn't hide her surprise. "I'm Sorry, what?" she couldn't stop herself. "It was a mistake. I'm on the pill, and I really don't know how it happened. I need to stop this..." Liana mumbled. It wasn't coherent, but Tashi understood every word. "You've been together for years, Liana, I don't understand..." Tashi tried to be more sensitive. "It's just not the right time. We need more stability, and bringing a child into something like this is just not fair." she said, looking at her for a change.

"I would go alone, but I need someone to be listed as an escort," she averted her gaze as she said it. Ashamed of what she was asking from the girl in front of her, a complete stranger in her life, yet the only one she could think of. "Patrick?" Tashi asked quietly. "He doesn't know." Liana's eyes filled with tears. "Please-" she had been thinking about this monologue from the moment she found out, three days ago. "Okay" there was no need. Tashi answered immediately. "Okay, I'll go with you." she smiled the most genuine smile she had to offer.  "Thank you." they both took a sip of their drinks.  The rain outside intensified.

When Liana entered the house, Patrick was in the kitchen, and she quietly leaned on the doorframe, watching him while he wasn't looking. Thinking about what she was going to do tomorrow. Knowing it's for their own good. He wouldn't understand if she told him. He wouldn't understand, and he would want to keep it, and neither of them could raise a child right now. She knows that. She knows he will hate her no matter what she decides tomorrow. If he finds out, he will feel trapped. He will feel like she has ruined his life. Again. Little by little. Each time draining him of the last drop of joy left in him. The last drop of youth.

"Are you just staring now? Not saying hello?" he asked, amused. He had felt her gaze on him for a few minutes. "Hey," she approached him and hugged him from behind. Leaning on his shoulder and closing her eyes. "Hey, Lilo," he was confused. Not understanding the sudden closeness. The last few days had been strange, to say the least. Liana and Patrick hadn't fought even once. She hadn't been feeling well, and he mostly tried not to bother her with his presence. He was afraid of making her feel even worse than she already did, and the more he distanced himself, the closer she got. The more space he gave her, the more she sought touch.

"What are you making?" she asked quietly, not moving an inch, still with her eyes closed. "I'm pretty useless, but I called your mom, and she gave me a recipe for the soup you like," he said quietly. "You called my mom?" she asked in a half-broken voice. "You haven't been well for a few days, Lilo. I wanted to make something that would make you feel good," their gazes met.

Liana started crying, and Patrick panicked. These weren't just tears welling up in her eyes but real crying with her hands on her face. "Hey, hey, Liana. What's going on?" he gently took her hands off her face, revealing how red she had become in those seconds, how sad she was. His hug was comforting. More comforting than anything she had felt recently. "I'm such a bitch. Really," she mumbled. "Lilo, you're the kindest person I know," he chuckled above her head, tracing small shapes on her shoulder while gently rocking her, trying to soothe her in any way he could.

"I really love you. You know that, right?" she pulled away from him for a second and studied him. "Of course, I know," he replied, "I don't understand what's going on, Lil. I need you to talk to me." He was half-lost, not understanding what he did or what she did that led to this situation. "I don't say it enough, but I really love you, Patrick. More than I love most people in the world," she said again, unable to stop the tears. "I know. I really know," he replied, hugging her once more, not letting her slip away from him. "You're okay. Whatever it is, we're okay," he said, and she nodded into him.

Liana also thinks that most of the time, they are okay.

The months that passed were more of the same. Liana worked on Art's house, meeting with him once or twice a week to show him the project's progress. Every time he tried to have a conversation beyond professional matters, Liana cut him off. She owed that to Patrick. She owed it to herself and Patrick to be okay. She couldn't let herself betray him emotionally with someone who, the moment he had a hold on her emotions, her entire system would recalibrate around him again.

The calm dynamic between Liana and Patrick lasted exactly two weeks. Liana was quite sure they didn’t know how to manage without fighting to the point where she wanted to smash a plate against the wall. Sometimes they went to bed without exchanging a single word, and those were the days it was hardest for her to be near him. Those were the days she also canceled meetings with Art because Patrick made her so angry she became indifferent. And indifference leads to mistakes. She knew that. She had seen it up close.

Now, with both Art and Patrick participating in the tournament in Atlanta, Liana found herself ordering coffee and soda at the hotel bar while opening her laptop, hoping to tie up some loose ends before sitting down with Art for a few minutes tomorrow. "Hey, Liana," she heard Tashi’s voice from behind. They hadn’t been in touch since that time, when Tashi went with her. But Liana had a soft spot for the woman in front of her. She used to be so afraid of her once, trembling when exchanging more than a word with her. Today she thought she and Tashi saw each other with flaws and strengths. Sometimes Liana didn’t know what her strengths were, but she always knew Tashi’s.

"Hey," she smiled at her. "Mind if I sit for a bit while I wait for my order for Art and me?" she asked. "Is he sending you to fetch orders now?" Liana raised an eyebrow. It was uncharacteristic. "Actually, no, I saw you from afar and didn’t want his mind to be distracted." Tashi said, and Liana rolled her eyes, wanting to say something. "There’s no way I could distract him right now. Not before I finish working, nothing to talk to him about" she said, and Tashi rolled her eyes and chuckled. Liana wasn’t entirely sure if something was happening between Tashi and Art. It wasn’t her place to ask him, she wasn’t in contact with Tashi, and her parents hadn’t told her anything special as gossip as they usually did about his life. Maybe it was just friendly, and she was purely his coach, but Liana didn’t want to be in the middle of it. She wasn’t going to disrupt Art’s happiness. She was with Patrick. Most of the time, she was happy with Patrick.

"Has he ever shown you his necklace?" Tashi asked. "Excuse me?" Liana was confused. "Art, has he ever shown you his necklace?" she asked again, slower, like speaking to a child. "No, I never asked, and it’s always under his shirt," Liana shrugged as Tashi took her order. "He’s such a pussy," she shook her head from side to side, chuckling. "So dominant on the court and yet, such a coward. Unbelievable. Good to see you, send my regards to Patrick," she smiled and walked toward the exit, not giving Liana a chance to respond.

Art was terrified. He was bored, so he went down to the lobby half an hour before the time he had arranged with Liana. He was so happy he could see her in person and knowing she was also in Atlanta, that he didn’t care the only reason they were meeting was to talk about the house. But now he felt the air leave his lungs. He saw Tashi and Patrick. Holding hands. Like that. In the fucking lobby. And while Tashi didn’t owe anyone anything, Patrick owed Liana. And Art was supposed to be happy because he understood what was happening. It was Patrick. No matter how much time passed, he knew Patrick.

When he returned his gaze to where they had been sitting, after giving someone an autograph, they were gone. His heart was beating faster than usual. He felt like crying. He was supposed to be happy, but all he could think about was Liana’s face and that he was about to be someone who told her something that would make her cry. Again. He swore to himself he'd never make her cry again, but he was about to. And he hated it.

"Donaldson," she smiled at him, causing him to jump in his chair. "How did you get so startled, you were practically looking at me," she rolled her eyes, and he smiled at her. "What’s wrong?" she asked. His smile was fake. Liana hated that she could still tell if his smile was fake. "Nothing, just thoughts about the tournament." he said. "You crushed your competitor today, you’ll be fine." she rolled her eyes. "Mind if I order some wine? It’ll help me sleep." she added. He didn’t know she liked to drink wine. "Of course. I would order some too, but, you know." he replied, somewhat pleased she was allowing herself to relax a bit around him. It took her only a year.

"So, I’ll show you a few things and then let you go." she said, sipping her wine, and he nodded. "Hit me." "Question, while the computer loads." she said, and he looked at her. Liana hated how his green hoodie made the bright blue of his eyes stand out. She had never seen so many shades of blue as when she looked closely at Art Donaldson’s eyes.

"Talk to me." he leaned on his elbow, not taking his eyes off her. A little reveling in the moment. A little afraid to ruin it. A little wanting to ruin it. Because the voice in his head told him he had to tell her. Liana had to know. She deserved to know. Art deserved a chance. He would never do this to her.

"What’s the story with your necklace?" she asked, and he raised an eyebrow, quickly running a hand over the back of his neck. "There’s no story." he answered too quickly. He wanted to punch himself for it. "Arthur. Come on, what’s the deal, you didn’t wear a necklace when we were kids. Is it a gift from someone?" she asked. "Are you keeping track of my jewelry, Liana? Be careful, I might think you care about me more than you let on." he knew it would make her change the subject. He wouldn’t tell, but the blush on her cheeks and the big sip she took from her wine only made the conversation better.

"This is the final plan. They started the interior construction two days ago." she showed him a diagram on the computer, moving a bit closer to him. Close enough for her scent to hit him like a slap in the face. He wanted to dive into that closeness. To reach out. To tell her and immediately promise everything would be okay. That he would be there to pick up the pieces. He knew he could.

"I saw Patrick and Tashi earlier." he said quietly, almost in a whisper. Not taking his eyes off her. "Oh, I didn’t know they were in touch..." Liana said, not moving her eyes from the computer. "Liana," he sighed. He hoped she would understand from the previous sentence. That he wouldn’t have to say it. "What?" she looked at him and chuckled, but her smile quickly faded when she saw his expression, "Just say what you have to say, Donaldson." she said with an uncharacteristic coldness.

She knew Art too well. Every time she tried to deny it, she could precisely recognize a look he gave or a joke that no one around understood. She knew how to tell by his walking pace to a construction site if he had a good practice or if he was tired. She knew who he was at his core. And more than anything, she knew how he looked when he was about to break her heart.

"They were holding hands and then disappeared from my sight," he sighed, breathing heavily. He said it in a whisper, almost not wanting to say what had been weighing on him. "Oh." she drank all that was left of her wine in one gulp and signaled the waiter she wanted another glass, returning her gaze to the computer. "I need to finish a few things, and I believe we can wrap everything up in two months. After that, you’ll need to work with an interior designer-" "Liana." Art interrupted her and placed his hand on hers, giving it a slight squeeze. This made her move her hand to her leg.

Without realizing it, tears welled up in her eyes, and the waiter who brought her wine hurried away from the table as fast as he arrived. "Talk to me, please." he was desperate to know what was going through her mind. "It’s okay, it’s whatever," she shrugged and looked at him indifferently, letting one of her tears fall.

"Liana." he sighed. "How is it okay? He’s cheating on you." Art wanted to raise his voice. He wasn’t mad at her. He was mad at Patrick. He was mad at the circumstances. He was mad at himself. "I know what holding hands and disappearing with Tashi Duncan means for someone like Patrick, Art. Contrary to what you think, I’m not stupid." her words were almost venomous, but he knew she wasn’t lashing out at him. He knew he was the closest person right now. He was ready to take it.

"What do you think is happening here?" she asked, taking another big sip of wine. "That I’ll hear about Tashi and Patrick and go up to your room so you can fuck me until I forget all my problems?" she asked, and he almost choked on his own spit. He didn’t expect her to be so blunt. That sentence showed how long she’d been in a relationship with Patrick. He spoke through her.

"No, Liana." he sighed again. Running his hand over the back of his neck once more but this time leaving it there a little longer. "I’m content in my relationship. Shit happens." she finished the second glass in one go and closed the laptop, ready to leave. "Shit happens? How many times has it already happened, Liana?" he couldn’t believe the level of indifference. He wanted to shake her so hard that her brain would reset and go back to the beginning. To reboot her self-respect that had clearly been trampled on more than once.

"Bye Art, good luck tomorrow." she muttered and turned. This time his grip on her hand was firm above the table. She wouldn’t be able to move him. Not now. "You’re making a scene." she whispered. He couldn’t help but think about the power dynamics between them now that she was standing and he was sitting, but he was holding her. She couldn’t move as long as he was holding her. And if it were up to him, he would hold her forever.

"Look. Here." he did the only thing he could think of and pulled the pendant of the necklace over his shirt. Seeing her breath catch for a moment. "Is that...?" She couldn't find the words and automatically moved her free hand over the metal. "Yes." He whispered. His grip loosened, and he let his fingers intertwine with hers over the table without her pulling away. "Why?" She murmured, not stopping her hand from moving over the pendant, her dorm key. The key he refused to return to her time and again. Hanging around his neck. "You know why." He closed his eyes for a moment. "Why?" She asked again. Not letting go. She had to hold on to something, and he knew that if he wanted to give her a moment of peace, even if not for himself—because for himself, he would have chosen another way to tell her, to show her—that all these years, she had been his good luck charm, even from afar. Right now, she was the only one who mattered. Only succeeding in changing the way she looked at herself and what she thought she deserved. "Because I’m yours. I’ve always been only yours."

Oh my god!!! I hope it wasn't too long. I feel like so much has happened in this part, but we are finally in Atlanta. What are you thinking guys? We've got a bit more Tashi on this one. I love hearing from you, so talk to me. Thanks for still reading and commenting. It means the actual world. 

taglist: @soberbabes @nina357 @lamoursansfin @marley1773 @ruyaas-world @apolloscastellan @primlovesdilfs @fangirl-kimora @serenadingtigers @imbabycowboy @do-it-for-kicks @izzywags478 @4deline08 @igotmajordaddyissues @jackierose902109 @ganana @yoitsme-04 @swetearss

[feyascorner]

You writing is amazing! I eat it right up!

Now this idea has been stuck in my hand for a while. Tav that wants to give Astarion blood but are horrified of needles and that fear applies to his fangs. So when they try to give blood the instinctively move away even when Astarion "The bit comes in 3 2 1" but Tav insist on trying again. When Astarion finally gets some blood Tav straight just goes "Oh okay great" and faceplants in the ground. When they wake up again they say the weirdest shit because they are still whoozy something like "Hey Astarion do crabs think fish can fly?"

Anyway have a nice day :]

im crying they're so silly...also i wrote like the dumbest questions but they're genuine questions so pls if anyone has answers...

"Just do it."

He nods. "Very well."

"Wait, no, I need a countdown."

"Fine. Three...two..."

"Actually, it's too nerve-racking, just--"

Astarion pulls his face away from the crook of your neck, eyes lidded as he sighs. "Darling, if it's too difficult..."

"It's not that bad. I want to help you, and you said this would make you more powerful in battle," you insist, bursting with enthusiasm but not enough to will you through your deathly fear of needles---or anything sharp for that matter. "I've done it before, I can do it again."

"Yes, love, but the last time we did this, you had me do it while you were asleep. You also woke up and punched me in the chest, even though you're the one who suggested the idea."

"I can do it this time! Just try again!"

Despite his hesitance, he follows your request, gently inching you closer and leaning into your neck. His breath feels cool on your skin, but the second you feel him nearing too close, you pull away again instinctively. He doesn't even seem surprised this time.

"Okay, maybe we should just do it while I'm sleeping again-"

He grabs either side of your face, pressing a kiss on your cheek and then another on the side of your nose. He trails down to your chin, and before you can even tell what he's doing, your face is flushed in embarrassment. So much so that you don't even realize he's trailed down your chin and his fangs are now right at your neck. "What are you--"

It pricks.

Astarion tries to make it brief, regardless of how badly he wants to drink more, because he can sense how limp you feel in his arms. He pulls away, licking at the excess on his lips with a triumphant grin. "There. Exquisite as always."

But you only stare at him blankly. His smile drops. It worries him.

"Oh, okay," you blink. "That's great."

You would've face planted straight into the floor had he not barely grabbed you by the back of your shirt.

You only awake a few hours later, groggily rubbing at your eyes while Astarion looms over you with pursed lips, and you wonder how long he's been sitting here. When your eyes peel open, he groans, shoulders slumping in relief.

"There you are, I thought I'd nearly killed you again!" he smiles, reaching for a plate of fruits beside your bedroll. "Now feed yourself before you go and pass out on me aga--"

"Your hair reminds me of a white rat I saw last week."

He stops.

"Why do you think Karlach's underwear doesn't burn off? Are they enchanted? I want enchanted underwear."

Ah, he realizes. You've finally lost your mind.

Your lips stretch dreamily. "Maybe I can ask Withers to make my underwear glow in the dark."

"No, before we move on, let's discuss that rat comment."

"Do crabs think fish can fly?"

"I---I suppose they would?..." He's at a loss of words, which is especially rare for him.

You blink wearily at him, staring at a spot on the wall behind his head. He'd think your confusion to be adorable if it weren't for the borderline offensive comments you were spouting out like a broken water fountain. "Do vampires poop, Astarion?"

You've crossed the borderline now. He runs a hand down his face, sighing. "Please stop talking, my love."

"You can technically eat food, even though it tastes bad, right?" you raise a brow, squinting at him. "So where does that food go? Do you poop it out or does it just kind of slide ou--"

"Okay, that's quite enough talking for today," he shoves an apple into your mouth. He snickers at how you struggle to take a bite. "No more questions until you finish the entire bowl."

Fortunately for him, you fall back asleep before you're even finished with the apple. And he's grateful you do because even he himself doesn't know the answer to that question.

[13timesihavedonethis]

Indulge - Viktor x reader drabble

Some Viktor fluff because working on the long angst fic has been bringing me down.

Warnings: Viktor not taking care of himself, rushed and not really proofread

Word count: 642

Desc.: Viktor likes to indulge in your care

Even in the early days of Hextech, it was a fight to get Viktor to rest even when he overworked himself into sickness. You would have to coax him with kisses and sweet nothings. Your voice always beckoned him back to bed each morning. Though, there was just so much for him and Jayce to learn about the Arcane and how to use it for good. They had just figured out how to create portals around the world to improve imports and exports! They couldn’t stop there. There were so many more projects to get done.

However, when you would look at him with a small pout telling him how he needs to take better care of himself, he felt a bit bad for making you worry. He also loved to indulge in your care. Maybe it was selfish of him to enjoy how you fussed over his health; he was happy to know for sure that you did care about him. You never let him feel unworthy or unseen when he was in your arms. So he let you pamper him every once in a while even if he had a mountain of work waiting for him at the lab.

On stormy days where his leg felt the worst, he would hold onto you for longer in the morning. Viktor would breathe you in and pepper kisses all over your face to wake you up. If that didn’t do the trick, he would call out to you using a dozen cute nicknames until you finally stirred. The way you look and the way your voice sounds in the morning never fails to get his heart racing. Upon hearing the crack of thunder, you would pull him down so his head was resting on your chest, and your heartbeat would lull him back to sleep. 

When he woke up again, you would help him over to the dining area where you’d have food and a warm cup of tea for him. It was your turn to cover his face in kisses while you went on and on about how handsome he is. The soft smile and blush he wore never left his face.Jayce always jokingly pestered him on those days—if you even let him leave the apartment—for being such a softie with you. 

When his health got drastically worse, it took a lot more effort on your part to get him to even take a long enough break to eat lunch and drink water. There wasn’t much time left for him to get his work done, and he told you that. You just didn’t seem to understand. He thought himself immune to your tactics to get him to rest, but he wasn’t prepared for you to come into the lab crying. Even worse, Jayce got up and left the two of you alone in the lab the very second you walked in. 

“I know you keep telling me you’re fine, but I know you’re not” you hiccupped. “Jayce and Heimerdinger and Sky have all kept me up to date with how you’re doing. Please, please take an off day with me again. You will have even less time if you refuse to take care of yourself.” 

A massive wave of guilt hit him hard at your words and tears. He’s known you really do care about him, but he didn’t realize how him not caring for himself would affect you. Viktor stood up supporting himself with a hand on his desk, and you rushed towards him enveloping him in a hug. He nuzzled his face into your neck and breathed you in for the first time in way too long. With you by his side, he went back to the apartment and let you pamper him. It truly had been far too long since he let himself indulge in your care.

Note: If there are any mistakes, please let me know! I am still working on the longer fic, but because it handles darker themes such as drug addiction and mental health disorders, I am making sure I am doing my best to accurately portray those things. Probably expect more of these small cute things while I work on that one :)

[sunflowersandsapphires]

You're my sweetheart

Of Oak and Ivy, Chapter 8

Series Masterlist         Next Chapter

pairing: Matt Murdock x fem!reader 

summary: Cute little birthday celebration for everyone's favorite guy!

warnings: swearing, sad Matt (as always) but he gets loved on I promise, underage drinking, fluff, Foggy and Bug being adorable friends

a/n: This chapter is sickly sweet so be prepared. I have some super angsty stuff coming though. I hope you all enjoy this chapter! Please feel free to reply/reblog/DM, I love feedback!!

w/c: 5.6k

Waking up to a ripple of pain throughout your head and an accompanying twist of nausea in your gut was unpleasant, to say the least. Groaning, you threw an arm over your aching head to block out the sliver of sunlight that had penetrated your thick blinds. As much as you would have welcomed more sleep, the persistent stabbing pain of your hangover was determined to keep you conscious.

Sitting up with a whine, you dug the heel of your hand into your brow, your other hand laying over your uneasy stomach. While last night had been overwhelmingly fun, you’d apparently gone a bit past your limits. You and Oscar had colluded for weeks to plan Jen’s 21st birthday party. You were in charge of food and decorations, Oscar–given that he was of the legal age–had been in charge of purchasing the alcohol. In typical Oscar fashion, he’d gone above and beyond, completely blowing your expectations out of the water.

After a grueling first semester and a chaotic winter break, you hadn’t really tried to be careful. Past-you had been totally fine overdoing it. Current-you was much less ok with that decision. As memories of the night wriggled their way out the sludge that surrounded your brain, your chest constricted with concern. If you weren’t doing well, it was unlikely Matt or Foggy were upright and jovial. Plus, there was a certain matter you needed to discuss.

The conversation was hazy, blurred by the alcohol lingering in your system, but you remembered the important things. As usual, you’d been pretty much glued to Foggy and Matt all night--maybe even more so since Evs wasn't there to put distance between everyone and your awkward, giggly self.

You didn't remember how it came up, but the three of you had started discussing birthdays. Foggy had lamented, saying his wasn't until July, but Matt had gone quiet. After a bit of prompting and a few more drinks, he'd quietly admitted that his birthday was months ago, in October. You and Foggy had screeched in disbelief, chastising him for not saying anything sooner—but the past was the past.

You and Foggy—Matt's only friends—hadn’t celebrated his first real adult birthday. If your own feelings were any indicator, you were sure Foggy was also devastated that he'd missed this. It almost felt like a personal failing.

Though you'd scolded Matt, anyone with a morsel of knowledge about his upbringing or insecurities would know he'd never have told anyone about his birthday unless specifically asked. This was an oversight that you intended to remedy, hopefully Fog did too.

Opening one eye and grasping for your phone, you managed to seize it from your wobbly nightstand before it clattered to the floor. Sliding the device open, you typed the message out at a snail's pace, each press of a key jostling the pulsating knot behind your eyes.

You: U alive?

The sound your phone emitted as the text was sent into the void nearly deafened you. Gripping it to your chest, you collapsed sideways, burying your head into the cool sheets. Your breathing slowed, consciousness ebbing, before a second text tone jolted you awake.

Foggy: barely

Smiling at your friend's parallel misery, you responded.

You: matt there?

Foggy: no. might b dead. will report back.

You: can we chat?

Before you could even comprehend the consequences of what you'd just asked, an ear-piercing verse of Fergie's “Big Girls Don't Cry” blasted through your phone's speaker. Changing Foggy’s ringtone last night didn’t seem so funny anymore.

“Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck,” You muttered, fumbling for the answer button. With a satisfied groan, you answered the call.

“Damn, you sound worse than I feel.” Foggy's hoarse voice chuckled over the line.

“So many regrets, Fog.” You moaned, squirming around on the bed while you waited for the ringing in your ears to subside. “Did we die? Is this hell?”

“Hey, speak for yourself. My good-christian-self is destined for eternal paradise.” Foggy scoffed.

“Point taken. If I'm still alive in a few hours, can we meet up to discuss our dear Matthew?” You asked, praying to god that your head stop aching with every breath you took.

“Discuss what exactly? Who'll be giving his eulogy when I find him dead in the communal bathroom?” Foggy grumbled. 

“Please tell me that's a bad joke.” You deadpanned.

“He's fine, jitterbug. He left twentyish minutes ago to puke his guts out.” Foggy confessed.

“Gross, Fog.” You grimaced.

”Hey, you asked!“ He protested. 

”I absolutely did not.” You laughed. “Can we meet up later?“

”Oh yah, forgot you asked. What are we meeting about?“ You could picture Foggy’s confused frown as he wondered aloud.

”His birthday, Fog.“ You explained, not quite in the mood to expound on the point.

”Shit, yah we should talk about that. Blue Java at 2?“ He suggested.

”Sounds good. Lower your expectations for my appearance. See you soon.” 

Ending the call, you collapsed back onto your pillows and let your eyes fall shut.

Lifting your eyes marginally as the bell chimed to signal someone's arrival, you felt a weight fall off your shoulders as a noticeably-disheveled Foggy shuffled in. His face was adorned with cartoonishly large, heart-shaped sunglasses; even through your own tinted lenses, you noticed the vibrant cherry red plastic accentuating his pale complexion. His long hair was tangled and greasy, tucked haphazardly behind his ears. Not raising his head more than he needed to, he trudged the few feet from the door to the wobbly table you were seated at, collapsing into a dented steel chair with a groan.

“Hey Fog,” You chuckled hoarsely as dropped his head to the table, shielding his face with his arms.

He grumbled incoherently, not looking up.

Snorting, and immediately regretting it as your head pulsed with a renewed ache, you poked his arm. “C'mon Fog, up and at 'em.”

“No,” Foggy groused, tightening his arms around his head as you continued to prod at him. “I'm mad at you.”

Throat tightening, you withdrew your hand. ”You're mad at me?“

”You dragged me across the city when I feel like utter crap. I think it's warranted,“ Foggy moaned.

Resisting the urge to roll your eyes, you began jabbing him with your finger again. ”I think you'll get over it. Besides,“

Sliding a large paper cup over to the miserable boy, you forced it into the grip of one of his hands. ”I bought you a large snickerdoodle latte with extra whipped cream and four shots of espresso. That's gotta count for something, right?“

Foggy hummed appreciatively, dragging the cup towards his face as he gradually sat up. ”You're a godsend. I love you.“

”Damn, make up your mind, Nelson.“ You took a sip of your own coffee, briefly contemplating buying another before turning your attention back to your friend and his garish glasses. ”Those glasses look great on you, by the way.“

Foggy snorted, tossing his hair back over his shoulders. ”Why thank you. I found them in the dorm lost and found when I crawled back into the building after trying to brave the day without them.“

”Who would've thought such a fashion statement would happen by accident?“ You giggled.

”I'll have you know it was a deliberate choice to highlight my existing beauty.“ Foggy scoffed, pinching his own cheek.

Shaking your head at him, your tongue felt cemented in place, your brain not quite sure how to voice your concerns about your other friend.

As if he'd read your mind, Foggy dropped his chin to his chest. ”What the hell are we gonna do with him, bug?“

Tracing a finger around the plastic lid of his drink, Foggy looked downright morose, his glasses beginning to slip down the bridge of his nose as he pouted.

Digging your fingers into your brow, you kneaded circles into it to relieve the growing pressure. ”I have no clue, Fog. You really didn't know?“

”No!“ Foggy cried, clearly a bit offended. ”Birthdays are sacred, bug. Sacred! If he'd told me, I'd have...well, I'm not sure what I would have done. But I would have done SOMETHING.”

Nodding woefully, you tried to stifle the frustration building in your chest. “I know that he's probably not used to celebrating, but I can't believe he kept that from us. I don't know whether to be mad at him for not saying anything or mad at myself for not asking.”

“I hear that. Do we just let it slide?”

“Absolutely not.” You protested, your heart squeezing painfully at the idea of simply moving past this. “I actually might have an idea?”

When you hesitated, Foggy waved you on with a limp hand. ”What are you waiting for? It's scheming time!“

Biting your lip as your excitement grew, you launched into the plan your alcohol-soaked brain had cooked up when you fell asleep. Apparently, it wasn't too incomprehensible because Foggy was practically squealing by the end.

”That's PERFECT! How long do we have to prepare?“

”A week?“ You wondered aloud. ”I don't want him to think we've moved on, but we are going to need some time to make the arrangements.“

”Saturday it is. What do you need me to do?“

Grinning at Foggy's eager expression, you shrugged. “I don't know, Fog. What do you want to do?”

“Oh no!” Foggy shook his head, pointing a finger at you sternly. “You're the mastermind here. It's your job to tell me what to do.”

Laughing incredulously, you put your hands up in mock surrender. ”Ok, ok! One question: how are your cake-baking skills?“

Rolling his head in a circle to relieve the crick in his neck, Matt slipped his glasses off so he could pinch the bridge of his nose. He'd been working on this legal research assignment for nearly two hours at this point and it was beginning to irritate him. His brain was too entrenched with other concerns to process the text sitting on his desk--meaning he needed to run his fingers over the same lines again and again in order to even grasp the subject of the material.

Slamming the book closed, he brought a hand up to his scalp, tugging on his hair with a growl. The thud of the book cover falling against coarse paper echoed throughout the empty room, making Matt frown. He wasn't quite sure what Foggy was up to, but it was clear Matt wasn't invited.

A few hours ago, his roommate had started gathering up his belongings and bundling up without a word. When Matt had asked him where he was going, Foggy had clammed up. Though Matt wasn't able to see it himself, he was confident the other man had been wearing a classic ”deer in headlights“ expression. The combination of his startled tone and scrunched face could only mean one thing:  Foggy was hiding something from him.

It was driving him up a wall. Listening to his best friend stammer out some shitty lie about needing to borrow a book from the library had to be one of the worst experiences of Matt's adult life. Foggy was such an honest person, hearing his heartbeat waver with deceit just felt so...wrong. It made him nauseous, in the same way the sound of styrofoam rubbing together did.

Swallowing around the emotions clogging his throat, Matt wet his lips. The more he thought about it, the more logical his anxieties seemed.

Foggy had been increasingly distant all week, and Matt had no idea why. The other man still spent time in their room, but it was limited, and it always felt like he was ready to bolt if Matt asked the wrong question. He'd come home at odd hours for the past three days, reeking of your familiar sweet perfume.

Despite Foggy's inability to admit to it, he'd been spending time with you--and Matt had not been invited.

When Matt had mentioned it to you, you'd waved off his concerns and quickly changed the subject, leaving him thoroughly confused. Both of you were dancing around a massive elephant whenever Matt was in the room, which was infuriating.

He'd thrown himself into their latest legal writing assignment in an attempt to think about anything other than the inevitable end of his two longest friendships, but he couldn't even manage to do that right. Which was odd because his routine this semester revolved pretty heavily around studying on Saturday afternoons.

Suddenly, he was struck by another wave of dread. Was this what the two of you refused to tell him? Was he holding you back from the true ”college“ life filled with underage drinking and loud music by being too concerned with your combined studies? Did you both find his insistence on staying in so unbearably annoying that you'd taken to making plans without him?

Shaking his head to rid himself of the intrusive thoughts, he inhaled deeply. No. That's not what was happening, he would have smelled the liquor on Foggy. Plus, you never seemed to mind spending a night in with him rather than going out on the town.

Allowing himself to get lost in his own thoughts, he didn't notice the familiar sounds of his roommate returning to their room. At the sound of the door opening, he jumped—ramming the rickety desk chair into the desk with a bang as he tried to turn around.

”Jeez, it's just me buddy, no need to have an aneurysm.“ Foggy chuckled, lingering by the door until Matt regained his bearings.

”Sorry,“ Matt muttered, snatching his glasses from the desk and slipping them on.

”No need to apologize, Matty.“ Foggy responded cheerfully, launching himself onto his bed with a small grunt. ”I should've said something before I came in. What if you'd been with a lady?“

At Foggy's mock-gasp, Matt could feel his sullen resolve dissipating. He snorted, his lips twitching as he fought back a smile. “It's 3pm on a Saturday, Fog. Why would I bring a girl back here?”

Throwing his hands up in the air, Foggy twisted to give Matt a look. “Last week you took a girl home from Sunday Brunch at Tom's, Murdock. There's no telling what the handsome duck will do on a given day.”

A laugh burst out of Matt's lips against his will. Shaking his head, he let himself smile. “You told me to talk to her!”

“Uh yah, because she was making googly eyes at you and I'm a fantastic wingman. C'mon man, keep up!” Foggy smirked.

With a snort, Matt collapsed onto his own bed, letting his face fall towards Foggy's. “You are a fantastic wingman. I should be more grateful.”

“Damn right.” Foggy's grin was evident, the sound of his happy heart a welcomed thud in Matt's ears. The absence of Foggy's noisy self had filled their shared space with a stifling, uneasy silence. Now that the quiet had ended, Matt finally felt like he could breathe again.

”Matt, buddy?“ Foggy's direct question snapped him back to reality.

”Huh?“

Chuckling, Foggy shuffled over to Matt's bed, sitting beside him. ”Fallin' asleep on me, Murdock? I'll have you know, I am RIVETING company.”

“'M not falling asleep.” Matt protested, somewhat unbelievably as his eyes remained closed.

“Sure, sure. Tell that to the cartoon letter Z's coming out of your head, dude. I asked if you wanted to get dinner later?”

Foggy's hands twisted around each other, preventing his usual animated gestures. Matt's mattress shifted as his roommate wriggled uncomfortably. Anxiety was cascading off the long-haired man's shoulders, reigniting the dread in Matt's stomach.

Flipping to face the wall, Matt drew his knees towards his chest and away from his roommate's seated form. “Sure, Fog. whatever you want.”

Patting Matt's leg, Foggy's posture drooped with relief. “Great! You have a good nap and I'll wake you up when we have to leave.”

Giving his friend an indifferent thumbs up, Matt squeezed his eyes shut in an effort to stop the tears from falling.

A handful of restless hours later, Matt's jaw was tight as he and Foggy walked across campus to meet you for dinner. Rather than allowing Foggy to guide him, as he'd grown accustomed to, he'd opted for walking alone with his cane. Foggy seemed a bit hurt, but didn't argue. As they closed in on the agreed upon meeting place, Foggy was practically skipping with nervous energy.

While you were still a few blocks away, Matt had focused on your pulse the minute he picked up on it. It was stuttering and unsteady, just like Foggy's–which did nothing to calm his nerves. Hearing Foggy's jacket rustle as he waved to you, Matt tried for a smile, though he was sure it wasn't very convincing.

��Hey guys!” You greeted, jogging over to them. “Long time no see!”

“VERY long time.” Foggy laughed nervously. “Barely remember who you are, actually.”

You snorted, pulling Matt into a hug despite his rigid posture. “Hey trouble. I missed you this week.”

Melting into your embrace, Matt tucked his nose into your scarf, relishing the scent of vanilla and light floral perfume that coated the accessory. You'd missed him. The thought of you valuing his presence enough to notice the absence of it after a few days warmed his heart.

“Missed you too, sweetheart.”

Unraveling your arms from around his waist, you slid a hand into his elbow and squeezed gently. “Everything ok? You two seem tense.”

“Tense? Pfft, never. I'm great. Best I've ever been, even. Off to dinner with my two friends, the three musketeers. Nothing could be better.” Foggy rambled aimlessly, twiddling his thumbs.

Letting Foggy's words hang in the air for a moment, you made a strangled noise, tugging Matt backwards as your footsteps stopped. Resting a hand on Matt's forearm, you chuckled. “Fuck, he's been like this all day, hasn't he? No wonder you seem stressed.”

Gawking, Foggy started to sputter out an excuse but you ignored him, continuing to speak to Matt as if you two were alone. “Don't fret, bubs. He's just nervous he'll ruin the surprise.”

“Surprise?” Matt wondered aloud, “What surprise?”

“Yah, bug. What surprise?” Matt could practically hear Foggy staring daggers at you.

“Fog, look at him. He's freaking out.” You observed, frowning at Matt's tight jaw and scrunched brow.

“I am not.” Matt blushed, ducking his head as he felt your eyes roaming over his face. Your ability to read him like a picture book never ceased to unsettle him.

“Sure, trouble. Let's just finish our walk and all this anxiety will be over, ok?” You bumped your hip against his, ignoring his attempt to maintain his suave image. “Don't let Fog scare you, he's just worried he'll lose the bet.”

“I am not!”

“You are too. We both know how dangerous your loose lips can be.” Placing your free hand on Matt's bicep, you turned your attention back to the dark-haired boy. “Promise he didn't say anything to you?”

“I am absolutely clueless.” Matt confirmed.

“Ha! I told you I could keep it a secret.” Foggy boasted.

“We'll see, Fog. We aren't there yet.” You reminded him.

“It's not MY fault I'm so eager to tell him. He's my best friend!” Foggy pouted.

“Which is why we made the bet as extra motivation, Fog.” You chuckled.

“You guys know I'm still here, right?“ Matt asked nervously, feeling too similar to a cow being led to slaughter for his liking.

Foggy threw an arm around his shoulders in lieu of a response, leaning forward to direct his next comment at you specifically.

“You do know where we're going right? Because this feels a lot like walking in circles.”

Matt could practically hear your eye roll. “You know, next time we plan something, you can pick the venue.”

Foggy tossed his far hand into the air. “Hey, I'm not judging.”

“Tell that to your judging tone, Nelson. You're giving me second thoughts and it's a bit late for that.” You teased. “And I'd like to remind you, I was pretty hungover when we planned this.”

“So WAS I!”

Matt let your playful bickering wash over him, feeling the start of a smile playing on his lips.

The walk to your destination wasn't far, only a few blocks, but the combination of the blistering wind and aching cold made it feel like an eternity. Matt was relatively familiar with the campus, but you were walking past the buildings he was familiar with towards a less populated corner of the college. It's not that he wasn't ok exploring an unfamiliar area of Manhattan, it just didn't help his growing confusion about the situation the two of you were keeping from him.

After the 8 block stroll, which Foggy complained about thoroughly, you reached the Northern edge of Columbia. Standing on the cracked sidewalk, Matt could feel the campus fighting with the rest of the city–the sounds of screaming college students competing with blaring horns and shrill whistles just one block over. The sounds were slightly muddled by the brick building you'd stopped at, echoing off opposite walls and ricocheting in all directions.

“Are we finally here?” Foggy groaned, voice muffled by the scarf he'd tucked over his nose and mouth in, what Matt assumed, was a futile attempt to keep warm.

“Matty, remind me to stop inviting Fog to things.” You quipped, knocking solidly on a locked metal door as Foggy gasped in offense.

The thick steel entrance was quickly unlatched by a man, whose deep voice Matt didn't recognize, halting your and Foggy's renewed bickering.

”Thanks Josh!“ You squeezed the man's shoulder before stepping through the threshold and into the strange building. ”Right this way, gentlemen!“ You called over your shoulder to your friends who hurried to take shelter from the winter chill.

Once inside, Matt's shoulders relaxed as the tension seeped out of them. Escaping the awful cold was a welcomed relief, and, on top of that, the unfamiliar space was immensely…quiet. 

The surrounding walls were thick and much better suited to keeping city noise out than any of the other academic buildings he'd walked through. Sound-proofed maybe? His practiced ears could still hear screeching tires and pounding club music, but the noises were unusually faint–as if his ears were covered with a hundred layers of spun cotton.

Inside the building, soft classical music was playing. Perfectly tuned string instruments sang brilliantly with the accompaniment of expert percussionists. It was peaceful in a way Matt hadn't experienced since listening to the St. Agnes choir rehearse as a child.

Letting his mind get lost in the melodies drifting through the hallways, Matt absently felt you take his arm, guiding him up a few sets of stairs and into a carpeted room. The scent of burning candle wax and sugar filled his nose, and he could feel Foggy's excitement peaking.

”Happy belated birthday, buddy!” His roommate clapped him on the back, ushering him into a seat as you fiddled with what must have been a window lock.

“What?” Matt asked, truly perplexed as Foggy uncorked a bottle of wine and poured three glasses. His birthday? How did you two even– Oh god. A hazy memory ran through his mind; a confession falling off his inebriated lips. Shit.

“You didn't think we'd forgotten that little tidbit, did you?” You teased, cranking a wobbly handle and unsealing the window. With a quiet 'pop', the window burst open and music flooded the room. “There we go! Let me know if it's too loud, trouble.”

Matt's throat was clenched as he truly took in his surroundings. Though he'd never been, he assumed, based on the context clues, that he was listening to the orchestra practice from somewhere in the music building. He wasn't quite sure how you and Foggy had discovered this space, or gained access to it, but he wasn’t going to question your combined wills. “You did this...for me?”

“Course we did, bud! Birthdays deserve a celebration!!” Foggy explained, pressing a glass of sparkling wine into his hand.

“We got sandwiches from the corner deli, champagne from the market, a cake from Silver Moon bakery, and,” You pulled up a chair beside Matt, squeezing his arm as you sat down. “We get to listen to the Orchestra's rehearsal for their ballet next week!”

Matt opened his mouth to say something, hopefully expressing his immense gratitude in the process, but the words refused to form. Swallowing a gulp of the sweet bubbly drink, he fought back the urge to cry.

“Do you like it?” Foggy asked eagerly, his eyes burning holes into Matt's forehead as he tried to read the blind man's reaction.

“I–I love it.” Matt murmured, eyes stinging with tears. “You didn't have to go through so much effort–”

“Oh stop,” You waved off his customary guilt, bumping his shoulder with your own. “We wanted to, bubs. You deserve to have a good birthday. Next time, maybe even in the correct month.”

Matt chuckled weakly at that. “Thank you both. I—I’m sorry for not saying anything last semester…” Trailing off, Matt debated whether to be brutally honest about his upbringing. A warm palm was placed over his hand, which you then squeezed encouragingly. 

“If you want to tell us, we’re here to listen.” Was your soft reminder. 

“We love you, dude. We just want you to feel comfortable with us.” Foggy explained, knocking a knee against Matt’s. 

“I do, I swear! I just…I haven’t celebrated my birthday since my dad passed. I don’t think the nuns even knew that it was in October.” Matt snorted, his small laugh tinged with bitterness. “I didn’t want to bother you both by asking for something, I guess.” 

“Oh, Matt.” Foggy says mournfully, scooching his chair closer to the dark-haired boy. 

“You deserve to be celebrated, trouble.” You remarked, fingers dancing in your lap to the rhythm of the music. “And don’t think this belated party absolves you of one for this coming October. This was a backlog situation.” 

Foggy raised his glass. “I’ll drink to that.” 

Downing the small portion of alcohol, he grimaced. “Oh my god! This is awful.”

“It’s the best I could do! Oscar is out of town.” You lamented, coughing on your own swallow.

Matt smiled. “Maybe you two are just weak.” 

You both scoffed at that, immediately pouring yourselves more to drink. 

The sandwiches were decent, as always, but the cake was phenomenal. Chocolate sponge filled with a rich ganache and covered in vanilla whipped cream. Though Matt loved dessert as much as the next person, it could be hard for him to find things that weren’t filled with chemicals, way too much sugar, or–god forbid–non-edible items that warranted a health code violation. Not only had the two of you managed to find a cake that he enjoyed, but he had a sneaking suspicion that it was not just a lucky guess. 

The two of you truly knew him.

A month ago, maybe even a week ago, he would’ve been terrified. All the lessons Stick had taught him, the main reason he hadn’t formed any lasting relationships in his two decades on Earth, had boiled down to one principle: proximity to others is dangerous. But you and Foggy had proven his former mentor wrong. Matt’s life had improved significantly since he’d set foot on Columbia’s campus, all because of the two of you and your massive hearts. 

Placing another forkful of cake into his mouth, Matt was suddenly giddy with gratitude. The champagne undermining his ordinarily reluctant subconscious and revealing the immense love that he held for the two of you. By the time you’d all demolished the food, his limbs had been warmed by the alcohol. 

“At least you know Fog will never find another best friend behind your back, Matt.” You giggled, bringing him back to the present as you drained the bubbles from your glass. “He wouldn’t be able to hide that from you.”

“You make it sound like he’s my paranoid spouse or something!” Foggy laughed.

“Paranoid?” Matt gasped. “Who told you!”

“Uh oh, you’re in the doghouse now, Nelson!” You beamed, licking icing from your fork. “You shouldn’t speak ill of your wife like that.”

“Ok, first of all,” Foggy raised a hand. “He’d clearly be the husband in this scenario.”

“Clearly.” Matt jested, rolling his eyes to you. 

“Second of all,” Foggy spoke over him. “Matt has made it very clear that he is not interested in legalizing our profound bond.”

As Foggy broke off into fake sobs, you gasped and Matt cackled. “Matthew! Why would you turn down such a marvelous offer?” You scolded, standing to give Foggy a wobbly hug as his dramatized reaction gradually slowed.

“I know why,” Foggy sniffled, shifting his body away from Matt with a pout. “It’s because of my inadequacy.”

“What the hell are you talking about, Fog?” Matt chuckled, crossing his arms as he waited for Foggy to reveal the punchline.

“I can't—can't...” Foggy stammered emphatically. Rubbing circles on his back, you frowned in exaggerated concern, your breath stifled as you tried desperately not to laugh.

“It's ok, Fog. This is a safe space. You can tell us anything.” You reminded the blond, clearly in as much anticipation as Matt was.

“I can't DANCE!” Foggy cried, collapsing to the ground in a heap. “And heaven will burn before Matthew Murdock marries someone who would step on his toes.”

You and Matt erupted into boisterous laughter as Foggy stuck his nose into the air. “It's true. Tell her, Matt. Tell her about my left feet!”

Still giggling, Matt shook his head. “Fog, I'm blind! You've taken a whole semester of modern dance! If anyone has two left feet it's me.”

Jumping to his feet a bit unsteadily, Foggy swept an arm across the room, beginning to slow dance by himself. “Woe is me!�� He cried with a forcibly shaky voice. “No partner to dance with!”

“I'll dance with you, Fog. You poor thing,” You cooed, squealing in delight as Foggy grasped your hand and spun you towards him.

Matt beamed as he heard the two of you swaying to the rhythm of the music playing throughout the building. Foggy was humming softly along and you were attempting to get your tipsy limbs to obey the commands your brain was sending.

“Ok, I'm getting way too dizzy. Time to cut in, Murdock!” You chuckled, plopping down into your seat as Matt stood from his.

“Gladly!” Matt smirked, yelping as Foggy yanked him forward and positioned his hands on the long-haired man's own hips.

“I'm confused, aren't you leading?” Matt questioned, body going slack as Foggy began to twirl them around.

“I'm trying! Pick up your damn feet, dude!” Foggy scoffed, kicking Matt's shoe lightly.

“Then why are my arms underneath yours?”

“Because I'M the WIFE!”

“But you have to lead!” Matt shot back, still chuckling.

“Ugh, forget it. It'll never work between us, dear Matthew. Remember me when you dance with your bride on your wedding day.” Foggy clapped him on the back, curtseying before stepping away. ”Farewell, sweet prince!“

Shaking his head as Foggy strode away, Matt turned his attention to you, smiling rougishly. “Hmmm, it seems I'm in need of a new partner. Care to dance with me, sweetheart?”

Shrieking with laughter, you attempted to make your escape by darting around your chair, but Matt snatched you around the waist, pulling your hips towards his.

“I'm no Franklin Nelson, Matty. I'll trip over you!” You protested, weakly trying to squirm out of his grip, smile still gracing your lips.

“I don't mind, bug. If you want to give it another shot, that is.” Matt loosened the hold he had on your hips, allowing you to refuse if you truly wanted to, but you remained mere centimeters from him.

“S-sure, Matty. How do I...” You flexed your fingers, unsure of where to place your hands.

“Fog?” Matt called to his roommate, grinning when the blond rushed over in a huff to 'correct their form'.

With your hands linked around his neck, and his palms pressed gently against your hips, Matt inhaled deeply as he focused on the tempo of the song currently playing. Swishing the two of you from side to side, Matt stepped carefully in a waltz motion, the very one he'd heard Foggy practicing night after night during the slow dancing unit of his class.

His movements weren't nearly as confident as Foggy's but you seemed pleasantly surprised, letting him move you around the room with a bit less force than your other friend had. Tilting into him slightly, you huffed out an exhale.

”Dizzy?“ Matt asked quietly, hearing your eyelids flutter closed.

”Drank too fast, I think.“ You reasoned, scrunching your nose as the ground continued to spin beneath you.

”C'mere, sweetheart.“ Matt clasped his hands behind your lower back, tucking your head under his chin as he slowed his movements. ”Need to sit down?“

”No,“ You sighed, nuzzling into the junction of his neck and shoulder. ”This is better.“

”I'm glad.“ Matt murmured, pretending not to feel Foggy staring daggers into his back.

Humming appreciatively, your thumb rubbed over his nape. ”You smell nice, Matty.“

Huffing out a laugh, Matt battled the urge to plant a kiss to your crown. ”So do you, sweets. Thank you for a great birthday.“

”Of course.“ Your thumb continued to stroke small lines over his neck. ”You deserve it.“

Withdrawing slightly from your embrace, Matt craned his neck towards where his other friend was finishing the last dregs of the champagne. ”Thank you too, Fog. I appreciate you both so much.“

”We love you too, buddy.“ Foggy smiled, stepping over the spread of food to help remove you from Matt's side.

Gently sliding you into a seated position on the carpet, Foggy sat to your left, prodding you until you nestled back onto Matt's shoulder to your other side. Plucking a fleece blanket from the floor, the blond wrapped it around the three of you cozily.

”There we go. Everyone warm enough?“ Foggy asked. You nodded sleepily as Matt hummed his assent.

Tapping his fingers to the steady beat of the percussionists below, Matt closed his eyes, smile never falling from his face. 

Taglist: @eugene-emt-roe @abbyhaslongshorts @mrs-bellingham @abucketofweird @yeonalie @jadeunstablexx @spider-murdock @0ctober-writes @danzer8705 @mattmurdockstateofmind @supervoldejaygent @dorothleah @zomtart @marytheweefrenchie @cheshirecat484 @siampie @ignore-mp3 @silas-aeiou @rev-glut @screechingphantommaker @spiderstyles04 @paradox-brody-chase @msjb2002

[heartririmuarchive]

LUXIEM BOYS & READER ON THEIR PERIOD

pet names, gn afab reader. tw: blood mention & slightly suggestive content (shu and vox)

a/n: i just.. think they’re neat. this got super long bro LMAOOO. anyways periods suck ass hope y’all r well ily

Luca

— surprisingly (or unsurprisingly) very attentive and knowledgeable on what to do when your time of the month hits

— pads? tampons? he’d gotten those stocked up in bulk weeks in advance, don’t even worry babe. they come in all types of brands and even for specific needs (heavier flow, specific ones for overnight use, etc)

— he’s sending your favorite snacks and plushies of your favorite characters in a care package to your house in under an hour

— luca’s a good boy. he doesn’t get too upset if you need your space to deal with your pain, but he’s also one who wants to stay near you the entire time (something something overprotective puppy boy something something)

— also he’s got towels and such to put on the bed if you just wanna lay there and fight through your cramps that way

— heating pads? he’s got em. a warm water bottle? he’s also got that too! another way to warm up though is to just let him rest his hands against your tummy and hips, luca naturally runs very warm and it’s pretty soothing for your cramps

— stays with you as long as you need him to. he’ll be there to hold your hand and whisper comforting words as long as you need, mafia duties be damned because for the foreseeable week, luca is all yours

— “eh? work? don’t worry ‘bout that, i took the day off.. and maybe the rest of the week. you’re more important right now, alright? just relax, babe.”

Mysta

— he orders all the stuff you need via online, because he’d be too flustered to go out and buy them in person

— mysta knows what a period is and he understands the basics of it, however he does not like that it occurs monthly and he feels really bad that you have to experience it :(

— “seems kind of shit that your body wants you to have kids when you don’t want that. fuck periods, dude.”

— he cannot handle blood at all, he’d get so dizzy if he caught sight of it. if your relationship is still relatively new and you bleed onto the bed, you’re on your own for cleanup i’m sorry 😭

— he’s a sweet boy, really! it’s just he’s never really had to deal with that sort of thing before you?? it’s a new experience and it scares him sometimes

— if you want cuddles, then mysta is down 100%! anything you need to feel comfy and ease your pain he’ll do

— he runs naturally colder than others do, so if you need a heating pad he’ll get you a hot water bottle and other things like that instead.. but if you don’t mind his coolness then he’s all over you for some comforting snuggles

— when your cramps get so bad you cry he’s there to wipe your tears and hold you against him til they subside enough for you to move properly again

Ike

— ABSOLUTE KING! he takes care of everything like you legit do not even have to get up for most of the day bc he’s got you

— he brings any hygiene items you need to you directly, and he makes you food + warm drinks to soothe your cramps

— ike gets insanely flustered when buying pads or tampons for you, but he would do so anyways because he wants things to be as easy as possible for you

— HE READS TO YOU OMG!! he’d read some classic poetry or old children’s books.. something simple and soft toned that can put you to sleep

— he 110% refuses to let you do any work whilst you’re on your period. the pain is unbearable he’s sure, so you should rest instead of stressing yourself out with work!

— legit he does your work for you if it’s extremely pressing, ike would never allow you to work if you felt physically incapable

— “dearest, please. is it really that important for you to finish this document today? .. okay. let me see, i’ll finish it for you. go on and get some sleep, alright?”

— he makes sure to have an abundance of your favorite snacks and foods available for you whenever you want

— strokes your legs/hips to comfort you. he’s a touchy boy, but he doesn’t want to be overly affectionate just in case you don’t feel comfortable with being smothered

— also if you have mood swings or cry easily during your period, he’s the most equipped to deal w/ it

— like you start sobbing/tearing up, and ike is at your side IMMEDIATELY, cupping your face in his hands and wiping at your tears with his thumbs whilst cooing sweet words and shushing you

— “it’s alright, dearest. i know it’s uncomfortable, i’m sorry, i’ve got you. do you need anything? painkillers? on it.. you’ll have to let me go so i can grab them, though—”

Vox

— ough talk about being in good hands

— mans been alive for, well… forever? he knows a thing or two abt periods

— vox has stocked up on months worth of pads and tampons etc, all for your comfort

— he’s not super physical when you’re on your period unless you ask him to be? it’s not that he doesn’t want to touch you, it’s just that vox worries about causing you more pain somehow

— ^ illogical self deprecating thoughts about how he’s a demon and a monster, but he really can’t help it lol.. please reassure him that you want him to be near you :(

— he reads or sings to you if you’d like, his voice is such a big comfort ���️ he could put you to sleep with it though so make sure you’re good to go for a small nap

— vox makes you anything you want to eat when you’re on your period btw, he likes spoiling you

— also like,, just a thought? imagine if he could smell your blood, so he realizes maybe a day or two before you actually start your period that it’s coming up

— (also you didn’t hear this from me but he gets kinda weirdly possessive of you when he smells your blood haha)

— he buys like an entirely new collection of plushies/pillows/soft things to sleep on? his mind basically goes “oh? body hurts? NESTING TIME”

Shu

— he somehow knows the schedule of your period better than you do? he tells you it’s because of “sorcerer magics” but you don’t know if you believe that

— he’s simultaneously insanely well prepared and completely caught off guard when it does happen though 💀

— pads? check. tampons? check. chocolate, your fave foods, comfort items? check check check

— however when you do start, shu’s calm and collected demeanor just shatters

— panic mode! baby boy is running around the flat, making sure everything is in order and that you’re as comfy cozy as physically possible!

— he’s not exactly experienced w periods? yk? so he’s nervy

— still, he’s super attentive like fuck 😭 he’s so sweet and gentle w/ you when you’re on your period that it’s kinda hot lmao

— shu’s naturally rather warm, his palms specifically are like heating pads

— imagine one of his hands just pressed firmly against your lower belly tho 😭 rubbing loving circles into your skin, being careful of his nails (fucking claws tbh). he’s not even meaning for it to be as suggestive of a gesture as it is,,,

— he gets flustered if you bring that to his attention.. he sorta laughs it off, even though his face is blazing and he’s avoiding eye contact

— “what?? nah, i’m just trying to help you with your cramps, i didn’t mean to make you feel like that or anything— but, if you uh.. need some help, then…?”

— just saying shu’s down to comfort you in any way that you want him to ;)

[rainba]

what if darling cries during sex or aftercare, and once they calm down a bit, maybe apologise for getting too emtional (totally not projecting) and say that they feel so lucky to have their yan/they can't believe that they're here with their yan right now huehehehe i love soft emotional hurt/comfort

kind of on the same note (but not really) what are some awkward moments during with the yans? something about that feels really endearing and makes them more human, y'know?

tank yew for the yummy content :] don't forget to drink water n love yourself a lil you deserve it ( ´ ▽ ` ).｡ｏ♡

on that note i should probably drink some water myself...

Awww… I feel like both of the yans would feel a little bad, but they’d try their best to comfort their darling. ╰(*´︶`*)╯

For Kairos, he'd definitely wrap his arms around you without hesitating and pull you into a loving embrace. He’d press your face into his chest while resting his chin on the top of your head, shushing you and telling you it’ll all be okay– and that he’s so lucky to have you, too. (o´∀`o)

Kairos absolutely loves being able to comfort you– it makes him feel all warm inside, and he can’t help but feel as if he has a sense of purpose as he calms you down and showers you in his love.

To be honest, Kairos would probably end up crying right along with you... Then afterwards, he’d ask if you wanna take a bubble bath with him, or if you wanna just lay down and take a nap/go to sleep...

He’d also try and make you laugh afterwards– but his humor consists of either really dry puns or jokes that require you to be chronically online to understand them. So... I hope you find those things funny too! ┐(シ)┌

If you don't, he'll try to "get a better sense of humor" for you...!

As for Luka– while he does like seeing his darling cry, that's only when he has total control over the situation and knows that he's not genuinely hurting you. During the times he gets too aggressive during sex, he always feels regretful afterwards and tries to make it up to you.

So, if you start crying when he's trying to be genuine with you, it’d probably be a little awkward for him. ^^;;

Since he doesn’t understand strong emotions very well, he’d be kind of confused as to why you’re crying. Like… Did he hurt you? Did he say something that triggered this?

Luka would stop everything he’s doing and sit beside you as he wipes your tears away with the back of his hands, asking you to tell him what’s wrong. If you say that you just feel so lucky to have him, he honestly will be left speechless.

You're crying… Because you feel lucky? Lucky to have him? Aren't you only supposed to cry when you're upset or in pain?

Crying tears of joy isn't just a myth?

Truthfully, he’d space out for a bit and be lost in his own thoughts, fully trying to process what you said to him. After he spends a few minutes just staying by your side and wiping your tears, he’ll lean in and softly kiss your lips, asking you if there’s anything that you need from him. It can be anything at all– just tell him, and he’ll get it for you. It doesn’t matter how big or small. ( ´ ▽ ` )

If his darling cries after sex often, Luka will slowly get better and better at comforting you– he makes it his ultimate goal to learn how to best care for you and tend to all your needs.

Oh, and...

"...I'm lucky to have you, too. I love you."

(Also, thank U for the concern!! I try my best to take care of myself :3c I hope you and everyone else who reads this also does the same!! Go…… Drink water and love yourself…… (´｡• ᵕ •｡`))

[ros3ybabe]

Daily Check-in: April 24, 2024 🎀

Wednesday started out so rough, I had a really bad stress breakdown from the pressure I was putting on myself for the exam I have today (Thursday), but luckily my dad was able to calm me down over the phone and my boyfriend motivated me and encouraged me. I don't feel as stressed out anymore, I know that I know the material and I'll do great! (it's a chemistry exam)

🩷 What I Accomplished:

studied chemistry for a good bit

completed 3 chemistry homework assignments

scheduled a make-up quiz for my psyc class

did the Total Body Pilates video from Blogilates

did the 11 minute Wake Up Yoga from Yoga with Adriene

did my morning skincare and journaling

actually, just did my entire morning routine and felt great about it

shipped off shorts I sold on depop

went to chemistry lecture to review for the exam

went to my virtual appointment with a registered dietitian and set some goals for the next 2 weeks

decided to join a step challenge with my health insurance company to win points (they have some cool things in their points shop, plus extra steps during the day is good for my health!)

washed my laundry

made a brain dump list for the remainder of the week

💞 Good Things That Happened:

I really like the dietitian I met with and have another appointment with her in 2 weeks

I really enjoyed using my new 40oz Simple Modern insulated tumbler cup

didn't let my stress breakdown make me go home, very proud of myself for sticking to my plans

went to sleep early

sold another item on depop!

I felt very reassured that I know the content that is going to be on my upcoming exam

the guy who makes sushi at my campus food court made sushi for me and held it until I went to get it so no one would buy it, i could've cried it was so nice of him

I drank coffee on campus and it didn't hurt my stomach for once!

💔 What Could've Gone Better:

need to put less pressure on myself

had some issues with food after my dietitian appointment (sometimes thinking too much about food can be triggering for me, tbh, but my goals are nutrient based which is helpful!!)

started crying before I went to bed because I was feeling oddly emotional (I think I'm starting my period soon)

had to turn down a work shift because I had too much school stuff and that appointment (I need the money so bad tho)

did not drink near enough water

need to be more patient and gentle with myself

also need to really figure out what's going on with my priorities, I keep struggling to do the things I say I'm going to do which is difficult for me to deal with sometimes

need to remember progress over perfection, 50% is always better then doing 0% of something

💗 Stuff For Thursday

clean my room

listen to a podcast episode

maybe do some more laundry

make a grocery list

clean my bathroom

therapy today over video call

reschedule a morning appointment

chemistry exam tonight

try to ship off the shirt I sold on depop

do some more planning and organizing for my life

that's all for now! Thursdays gonna be good. My exam is gonna go great! I have confidence in myself, and my knowledge and I know I've got this!

til next time lovelies 🩷

💕 Song of The Day: Baddie by IVE

Gotta remind myself of this sometimes <3

[bwoahtastic]

Okay the Nico and Jenson breakup is devastating to me because I love them, but I also love torturing Nico so... Maybe they break up in the middle of Nico's championship year? I personally can't see them breaking up after they've both retired and have all the time in the world, but before that, when Jenson is slogging away in a McLaren that is way below his abilities, fighting just to get into the points while Nico is killing herself for a championship? That I can see causing friction between them.

It's hard, Jenson just isn't enjoying himself in F1 anymore, knows he's better than the car he's got and is still having panic attacks pretty regularly. He can see the pressure that Nico is putting herself under, knows exactly what it's like to fight for a championship, and he wants to be there for her but it's so hard to comfort her over a second place finish when that seems like a distant dream to him. And Nico feels it as well. She's driven terrible cars and knows what it's like to put your all into it and still not score points, and she wants to be able to cheer Jenson up but she's so caught up in her championship fight, in the lead that she had and lost that she just can't do it properly.

So they fight. And then they fight some more. They're both stressed and exhausted and Jenson is considering retirement and Nico is trying to drop weight that she doesn't even have in order to gain an advantage on track and they do the "well maybe we should break up then!" "fine let's break up!" thing where neither of them means it but they're both stubborn and competitive and neither will back down.

Mark finds Jenson in a bar, trying to drink Monaco's entire liquor supply, more alcohol than water in his body, staring at photos of Nico on his phone. Seb finds Nico in her apartment looking like she's done nothing but cry for a week, face all red and blotchy and snotty.

Seb immediately starts plotting with Mark because something has to be done. Nico and Jenson are soulmates, completely perfect for each other in every way and it's clear that neither of them is coping well with the breakup. Seb is certain that she and Mark can get them back together somehow, even if they have to lock them in a cupboard together. It's probably best to make them shower first though

Oh plsss my poor struggling babies!!!

Nico and jenson botj having such a tough season! Nico is desperate to get the championship and losing herself to it, training too hard and too much and worrying over her weight as if losing a single gram could be the difference between win or lose. Jenson tries to support her as best he csn bur she is snappy and frankly uninterested in him, and Jenson is dealing with a lot himself too. He has such bad anxiety and panic attacks and in turn nico tries to help but he doesn't always want her near which hurts her.

Jenson isn't enjoying himself and is seeing Nico lose herself and he tried to talk sense into her but it makes her snap to mind his own business, she doesn't need to be coddled! And the fight in them both yelling at each other that they better break up.

Both didn't mean it and are broken after when Jenson grabs a weekend bag with essentials and storms out of Nico's apartment that he had kinda unofficially moved into.

Mark finding Jenson in a bar looking drunk and miserable and staring at a picture of nico on his phone and he is wondering wtf happened!

Meanwhile seb is over at nico's place for girl time and is shocked to find Nico curled up on the sofa wearing one of jensons shirts and her face red and blotchy from crying. She bursts out in tears all over again seeing Seb so seb rushes over and holds her the best she can trying to understand her rambles between her sobs!

Seb and Mark meeting later and they know they need to come up with a plan! Both are miserable and need each other more than ever! Jenson is staying with Mark and even though he is trying to hide it, he barely sleeps and has frequent panic attacks. Ans Seb has to force Nico to eat and drink and she barely has the energy to train and race, just wants to wallow in self pity...

I can see Mark snd Seb literally shoving them in a closet together to have them figure it out. Jenson and Nico are both awkward, not speaking, but then Nico just sniffles and wordlessly wraps her arms around his waist to cuddle close, and Jenson hugs her just as fiercely.

Or maybe they only get back after Jenson retires and Nico wins the championship, anx then Jenson hears nico is retiring too... he wanted so bad to congratulate her when she won but didn't manage more than an awkward helmet on bro hug lol.

Maybe they meet in a resort when they are both on holiday trying to figure out whatnto so next? Jenson sees her sunbathing and tries to hide before she sees him but he trips and quite ungracefully falls next to her sunbed. Nico shyly having him sit and looking at his scraped knee for him. They are both far from fine, but they want to try and be together again! Pls they would support each other so much and make sure the other goes to therapy and slowly get happy again!

[bluegalaxygirl]

Kuraigana castle (Zosan X Reader) P2

Plot: Zoro gets invited back to the castle with his new family so his daughter can meet Mihawk and Perona.

Warning: Bad language, fluff , making out, Violence and Snakes

Reader is Female, her the ability to control Snakes that come form tattoo's on her arms, she can change the size of them but they are also connected to her emotions. Kuina is 10 months old and has Sanji's eyebrows and blonde hair but your eyes and skin tone.

Zoro X Sanji X reader, Poly relationship, established relationship.

P1

The sound of crying hit your ears waking you up form dreamland but you felt well rested "I got her" You whisper feeling Sanji about to get up "You sure?" The cook asks wiping his tired eyes as you sit up and crawl over him to get out of bed "Yea i'm sure" you place a kiss on his head before walking over to the crib and picking up Kuina who starts to calm down "Get some more sleep" you whisper over to the cook who turns to look at his two girls, Zoro rolls over and pulls the cook into him by the waist "everything ok?" The swordsman tiredly asks burying his head into Sanji's neck "Don't worry everything's fine, sleep in ok" you run your hand through his green hair hearing him let out a relaxed sigh, the two go back to sleep as you grab the baby blanket and a small bag heading next door to the bathroom. You wash and change your baby while her hands go to your tattooed arms and making hissing sounds at them. You get her into day clothes before picking her back up "Maybe you can see them later. You hungry honey?" you ask as she babbles at you making you smile wide and walk out of the bathroom the bag slung over your shoulder. This place was like a maze but you headed to the living room you were in yesterday, the kitchen must be close to that and luckily it was. A kettle boiling caught your ears not too far from the living room so you followed it soon making it into a Gothic yet bright looking kitchen.

Mihawk stood by the cooker frying up some eggs "Good morning" His voice makes you jump slightly but you should have know he could sense you even with his back to you "Morning" you walk in further looking around the kitchen before placing the bag down on the floor "Do you need a hand?" You jump a little looking to see him standing right next to you "Sorry didn't mean to scare you" he lets a small smile show as you calm down "N-no it's ok. I'm just a little jumpy this morning" you gulp as he lets out a small laugh "I have been told i can be intimidating but i wouldn't do anything to you or your family. please let me help you" You relax a little and look down at your baby "I usually give her milk of a morning and some of what i'm eating" The man nods looking to the cooker and then to Kuina "If you want i can take her so you can do what you need to" you nod and hand him Kuina then go into your bag to get a bottle. Mihawk takes his necklace off since Kuina wants to play with it and puts it aside not wanting her to mess with it "Hush, it's ok" he bounces her a little as she gets a little angry over him not letting her have it. "There are some toys in the living room do you mind if i take her in there?" You turn to look at him and nod letting him head out while you cook up some food and wait for the bottle of milk to warm up in some warm water. You place the bag over your shoulder and balance your cup of tea on your plate of while holding the warm bottle of milk in your other hand heading into the living room and placing it down on the Coffee table.

You grab a large towel and place it over the sofa seat next to you before taking Kuina off the warlord "Thank you" you smile at him setting your baby down on the towel letting her sit up on her own like she usually does and handing her the bottle of milk. She takes it and starts drinking it on her own as you watch her now and again taking a bit of food. Once Kuina is done you let her play with one of the stuffed mummy like toys that Perona made before offering her some of your food, she's had the stuff on your plate before so your not worried that she'll hate it, she eats it happily. "May i ask you a question" You look up at the sound of Mihawk voice seeing him sitting in his chair reading a newspaper "Urm... sure" you shrug looking back at your baby to wipe the food off her face "Have you had any other trouble than with the vinsmoke family?" His question makes you gulp but you keep your eyes on your daughter as she plays with her doll "Not really, why?" you finally look up at him trying to get a read on him but his Stoic face gives nothing away "I'm more than happy to help if ever you need" His yellow spiral eyes meets yours, you can't look away from them, his face is Stoic but his eyes are something you can't understand. A very tired Perona fly's in along with two ghosts, she yawns and rubs her eyes sitting down next to you on the sofa as two more ghosts fly in and hand her a cup of tea and a plate of food.

You manage to pry your eyes away form the black haired man and look over at the girl next to you, seeing she so tired she didn't realize you were sitting next to her. Your baby looks up at her and smiles wide stretching her arms out while "Pi". The pink haired girl jumps a little at the noise turning to see you and Kuina "Oh! Hello" She blushes a little embarrassed while you hold back a laugh "Good morning" you smile at her as Kuina tries to stand, you help by holding her hands to let her push up "So cute" Perona says in her seat looking at your girl as she manages to reach down and grab the mummy doll "Can i hold her? please" She places her empty plate and Cup down while you move over to place your baby in between you two "She's just eaten, so I'd give it a few more minutes" She nods at your words taking your baby's hands helping her balance and kissing her cheek fawning over her, you lean back and watch the pink haired girl play with your daughter having little teddy bear fights and playing peek a boo.

You pack up the towel, grab the plates and empty cups before heading into the kitchen, you place them into the sink and turn on the water "Guest's shouldn't clean up" Mihawk steps past you making you jump but curse under your breath as he turns on the kettle again "It's the least i can do for everything you've done" you sigh turning the water off "I don't understand you" The man leans against the counter with his arms across his chest "You look at me with fear and yet you trust me to hold your child and even leave her with me. Your proper but you don't like meeting my eyes. Why?" His voice is calm when he asks making your heart race "I didn't mean to offend you" you keep your eyes on the dishes cleaning them to take your mind off your beating heart "You didn't offend, i just wanted to know, i can't get a read on you" His words make you stop and turn to him meeting his eyes "I can't get a read on you" your reply makes the man smile and push off the counter stepping closer "I see" he lets out a laugh making you raise an eyebrow as you wipe your hands on a towel "I hold a high level of respect for you. Not only do you not act like an ass like most of the other warlords but you helped Zoro, you didn't need to and you didn't need to train him but you did" you blurt out feeling like you can talk to this man now. "So you don't want to overstep, i understand but don't worry i won't get upset or mad" He places a hand on your shoulder and for once you don't feel shocked by his touch.

The two of you talk feeling more relaxed and open around each other while the black haired man makes tea "I was wondering, Zoro mentioned that when he was learning Haki he wasn't aloud to drink. What was he like during that time?" you asks sitting on the stool leaning on the counter "Grumpy to say the least" Mihawk places a cup of tea in front of you "Oh come on, i need details, when ever i ask he just turns red" The man lets out a small chuckle leaning against the counter "He must be thinking of that one incident... He was a few weeks in when he started sleep drinking, i hid all the alcohol, so he would grab what ever he could form the pantry and kitchen cupboards, one night Perona found him in the kitchen half naked and drinking a whole bottle of hot sauce" You place a hand over your mouth trying not to gag at the thought only for Mihawk to laugh "I heard her screaming at him and went to check it out only to hear Zoro state that it was alcohol because it burned on the way down" You laugh along with him holding your stomach as it started to hurt "Morning" You look over at the door seeing Zoro and Sanji but it makes you laugh more leaning on the counter for support while Mihawk try's to stop his laughter "What?" The swordsman asks with a raised eyebrow as Sanji looks at you confused "I-It nothing" you manage to get out turning away from the two holding your mouth to try and stop yourself from laughing.

Sanji shrugs and walk over to you placing a kiss on your head as you clam down "Where's Kuina?" The cook asks heading over to the kettle to make some tea "She's in the living room with Perona" you smile wiping away some tears form all the laughing, Zoro leans down a place a kiss on your cheek feeling you hold back another laugh "What did you tell her?" The swordsman sighs looking at his old master "It's nothing" Mihawk places a hand on Zoro's shoulder taking his tea and heading out the kitchen into the living room. You stand and are about to do the same when the swordsman wraps his arms around your waist "I'm happy to let it go but there's one thing i can't let go of... you didn't say good morning" You place your cup down and turn in his arms running your hands up his chest "Good morning Hunk" You lean up placing your lips on his giving him a quick kiss before pulling away and running your hand over his cheek "That's better" He smiles down at you rubbing your hips lightly as he lays his head in your neck taking in your smell, you wrap your arms around his neck hugging him close to you "Did you eat love?" Sanji asks turning on the cooker "yea i did. I'll see you both in the living room" You pull away form Zoro kissing his lips lightly before walking over to Sanji placing your lips on his "Do you want anything else?" The cook asks pulling you closer "Maybe another kiss" you smile up at him as he leans down placing his lips on yours for a longer kiss.

Standing on the dock you hugged Perona as she cried into your shoulder "Come back soon ok" You pat her head with a light sigh, she begged you not to leave but you all had to get back to the Sunny "You'll see her again soon and thank you for all the gifts she loves them" The pink haired girl pulls away form your shoulder to look up at you with watery eyes "Really? You think she likes them?" You smile down at the girl and give her a nod making her smile too "I'm so glad" She pulls away from you and holds her teddy close to her chest. Zoro sighs as he walks up next to you and places his hand on Perona's head, she looks over at him and wipes her eyes "You better keep her safe" Perona pokes Zoro's chest with a slight angry look "Like I'd let anything happen to my daughter" The swordsman rolls his eye at the woman making her groan at him. You giggle a little at the two, they act just like siblings and its kinda cute, Sanji walks over holding Kuina with a smile "We're ready to head off" The cook stops next to you Perona's attention turning to the baby in his arms "Bye cutie pie, I'll miss you but next time you come I'll have more toys for you" The pink haired girl rubs your daughters cheek before kissing her forehead "Pi" Kuina calls out making Perona hold a hand to her heart "That's right Pink" Sanji smiles wide at Perona who finally looks up at him only to pout and look away slightly "You made a cute baby"

You take Kuina off Sanji since you can feel the heat coming off him, once the baby is safe in your arms Sanji falls to his knees, red-faced and holding his nose "I think you made his day" You laugh hearing Zoro join you. "It was a pleasure having you here" Mihawk walks over after checking out the area for any of those apes but it seems they got the message not to mess with you all "Thank you for having us, your home is lovely" You smile at the man nudging Sanji with your leg a little to see if he's ok, your cook is still trying to clam down but at least his nose isn't bleeding anymore. Zoro bows to Mihawk before placing a hand on your lower back giving it a light rub as, Mihawk walks up to you and take your daughters hand "It was a please meeting you little one" Kuina smiles up at him and grips his finger babbling a little. Sanji stands up and brushes the dirt off his pants before looking over at Mihawk "Thank you for everything" The cook manages to get out earning a nod from the black haired man. The three of you make your way onto the boat, Sanji helping you in since you have a baby in your arms before heading off to start the boat. Perona fly's over and waves you guys off as Zoro undos the rope thats holding the boat to the dock.

You stand at the end of the boat and wave as Zoro stands next to you holding your waist, the boat starting to move "Bye" Perona calls out a few tears leaving her eye's as she continues to shout. You move Kuina up a bit, so she can wave back "Bye, bye" You gasp a little looking down at your baby who just said bye for the first time. Perona cheers waving her arms higher having her ghost hold onto her teddy for her, she seemed to have heard it too. Zoro chuckles and kisses his daughters head "We'll done baby girl" You hold Kuina tight as the boat picks up a bit of speed and walk further onto the boat "You did so well sweetie" You giggle kissing your daughters cheek heading over to where Sanji is steering. Once the boat get on a good cause at a steady pace Zoro puts his arms around the cook's waist holding the blonde form behind "Did you hear?" The swordsman asks getting a confused look from the cook "Ur, no what?" You move closer and hold Kuina up a bit "Can you say it again sweetie?" You ask only for your daughter to look at you then out at the ocean behind you three "Bye" Kuina calls out waving her hand at the water. "That's my little angel" Sanji takes Kuina off you and holds her close to him "So smart" Zoro laughs looking over Sanji's shoulder to see his smiling daughter.

[mxlktxa]

shes the one pt. lll

part ll part lll (bonus)

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pairing; obsessive!ellie williams x f!reader

c/w; language, obsessive behavior,

part l

part ll

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Why the fuck was she so touchy-feely with Jesse? Why is he so close to her? Doesn’t he know that she’s already my girl? What’s wrong with him? What’s wrong with her? He was with Dina, after all. So why go after my prized posession?

The urge to charge over there and pull the two apart so unbearable. But for the sake of embarrassing myself and losing the love of my life, I refrained.

It had been maybe four days since Maria had given me the ok to work just not on my own. Thankfully, I wasn’t set up for anything important and could attend the little get together Maria had set up. Just wished Jesse wasn’t with her.

She danced so happily with him it made me sick to my stomach. Her gorgeous smile seen by Jesse, his hands on her hips, her eyes taking him in and not me. What kind of bullshit?

Fortunately, the song had finally come to an end, her and Jesse walking over to me. On the other hand, an unwanted figure entered my peripheral. Shit.

“Ellie!”

Fuck. Please, don’t talk to me, don’t ask me to dance. Just fuck off. I’ve someone else to give myself to.

“Hello? Earth to Ellie.”

Fuck off, Dina.

“What?” I’m fucking busy.

“Everything okay?” Dina questioned, seeming worried about me. But I could obviously give less of a fuck.

“Ellie! My angel! Hi, gorgeous!” that beautiful, soft girl was now a bit of a wreck, walking over to me, using Jesse for support.

Perfect timing. Thank you.

“Jesse?” I questioned, keeping this slight mess that attached herself me to on her feet.

“She only had like two drinks, Ellie. She’s just tipsy.” Jesse chuckled, “also a little dizzy but she’s good.”

“Ellie. Take me home. I’m tired,” her little pout brought a smile to my face, my hands meeting her waist as hers met my hips, “You’ll carry me right, babe?”

Babe? What? Was this her talking or was this her ‘tipsy’ side talking? Whatever it was, I was eating it up and ready to demand so many more servings.

“Jesse, can’t you take her home? I was just gonna ask Ellie to-.”

“Not anymore! Ellie’s mine now,” a small smirk stretched her face as she happily cut Dina off, eyes glued to mine, teeth sinking into her bottom lip, and her delicate hands taking their place on either side of my face, forcing me to keep eye contact with her.

Fuck, I want you so bad. But I’m not gonna take advantage of you while you’re like this. I’ll have more chances, I can feel it.

“Uhh, yeah. It’s not far. I don’t want you walkimg yourself home either.”

“Thank you, Ellie,” she face planted into my chest, giggling and running her hands down my body, “goodnight, Jesse. Bye, Dina. Mmm, tell Joel I love him and I’m off to bed.”

“Alright, get going, Ellie. She’s gonna need to sleep this off,” Jesse laughed, pushing us to the exit doors.

On the way over, she seemed to truly be a little more than just tipsy. She waved and tried to leave my side to either speak to some other friends or pet the dogs or cats around. She did not only have two drinks.

Sooner or later, we made it to her home. The first thing on my list was to get her upstairs and get her some water but she wandered off to the living room couch. I followed kneeling in front of her as she covered her face from me.

“Ellie,” she hummed, sounding as though she was crying, “Ellie, I’m tired. I don’t feel good. Stay with me. Please? I need you. Just for tonight.”

Anything. Anything for you, I mean it, “Of course. But do me a favor and keep it all down until we get upstairs. Can we do that?”

“Okay,” she sobbed, holding onto me like her life depended on it, “I’m sorry, Ellie. And Jesse lied. I thought I could handle more than two drinks. I had five. They were so good.”

“It’s okay, baby. Just hang in there,” I soothed her, carefully throwing her arm around my shoulder so she could put all her weight on me, helping her to the staircase.

She was an emotional drunk. As well as a lightweight. Good and bad to know.

Wait, I called her baby. Fuck! Fuck, shit, fuck! Maybe she won’t remember it. Right? Right!? She’s too far gone to even function anyways. I’m safe. I had to be.

From there, I managed to get her upstairs and to the bathroom in impeccable timing. Thereafter, she begged for me to help her into some pj’s and into bed where she continued to cry for me to stay with her for the night. She didn’t even have to. I was more than ready to hop in with her.

“Ellie? Can I tell you something?”

“What’s that, princess?”

Her body was pressed to mine, face hidden in my neck. I calmly wrapped my arms around her, kissing her head as she had groaned softly.

“I wish you weren’t with Dina.”

I’m sorry. What the fuck did she just say? “What?”

“Yeah. Her and Jesse broke up a week ago and I’ve noticed she’s been real close with you since then. I’ve always liked you. I’d never tell you that though. You always made me so happy.”

Fucking what? Did she just confess her feelings for me in her drunken state? She admitted she’d never tell me this. But she clearly meant while sober. Would she remember in the morning? This had to be a game. This was all a prank. A joke. But if it wasnt then this benefited me. Gave me a much more confidence than-

“You don’t feel the same way. Do you?”

Shit, I left her hanging. I needed to have this conversation with her when she was in the right place, “Let’s talk about this in the morning. If you remember.”

“If I don’t will you still bring it up?”

“Of course, beautiful.”

“Promise?” her voice was so fragile and sweet. How could I say no to her? My sweet, babygirl.

“I swear to you.”

“Cool.”

Fuck. I had some thinking to do. Lots of thinking. But, fuck, was I ready for this.

“Ellie, I gotta puke again.”

“Okay, c’mon.”

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a/n; idk if i should keep this going but im kinda willing to do so… help 😭

a/n; pssst theres a pt 3 bonus available rn

taglist 🤎; @lazyotakuofficial

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[dwobbitfromtheshire]

From Hell to Home to Back Again

Summary: At the talent show, Chrissy Cunningham is so hungry that she nearly collapses. When she's found by Hopper, her parents ended up losing custody of her. She ends up being placed in the care of the Hendersons, and she finally finds the family she so desperately needed. She also ends up falling in love. What other changes are made in this alternate universe?

@emen-98 @1lostsoul0fishbowl @vulpixsworld

Prologue . . . Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chrissy woke before Nancy the next day, much earlier than she usually did. It allowed her to call Karen and then call Robin, who was still over at Steve's. Robin was relieved that her sister was okay and rambled on for quite a bit about what they could do to help. Neither one of them had any answers. She made sure to tell Robin that Argyle and Jonathan would be picking them up today instead of Steve. Robin quickly handed the phone off to Eddie.

"Hey, sweetheart," Eddie said.

"Hey, how is he?" Chrissy asked softly.

"Heartbroken," Eddie sighed. "How is she?"

"Still asleep, but she didn't throw up in her sleep, so that's good," Chrissy said. "How are you?"

"Would you think less of me if I said I was scared?" Eddie asked.

"I would think more of you, actually. I'm a little scared myself," Chrissy admitted.

"It's a little selfish, but what's this going to do to our family? I like our little family," Eddie said.

Chrissy smiled at hearing Eddie calling their friends' family.

"We'll help them get through this, and by helping them, we help ourselves," Chrissy said.

"I highly recommend you never see Steve Harrington cry. He looks like a kicked puppy," Eddie said, breathing heavily. "Well, hey, if Nancy doesn't want him, can we keep him?"

"He's not an actual puppy, Eddie!" Chrissy laughed and paused. "Besides, I definitely think Nancy still wants him."

"Are you sure?" Eddie asked.

"Yeah," Chrissy said. "I don't think she would be struggling so much if she didn't. . .but then again, what do I know?"

"I think you know a lot more than I do, Henderson," Eddie said.

"I think I hear her waking up. I have to go. I love you," Chrissy said.

"I love you, too," Eddie said.

"I love you more," Chrissy replied.

"Scientifically not possible," he laughed.

"Freak."

"Witch."

Chrissy made it back to her room to find Nancy sitting up and looking around in complete confusion. She crawled onto the bed and set next to her.

"How are you feeling?" Chrissy asked.

"Head is killing me," Nancy groaned.

Chrissy grabbed some medicine from her bedside table and handed her the glass of water.

"Drink all the water too," Chrissy said.

"Yes, Dr. Henderson," Nancy said, and Chrissy giggled. "I didn't do anything embarrassing, did I?"

The smile fell from Chrissy's face, and she bit her lip as she stared at Nancy.

"Well, um. . ." Chrissy trailed off.

"What did I do?" Nancy asked.

"Well, it's not what you did. . .it's more like what you said, really," Chrissy said.

"What did I say?" She asked as she continued to drink her water.

"Well, I'm not sure. . . Well, maybe we should wait until your headache goes away," Chrissy said.

"Chris, just tell me," Nancy said.

"Well, Eddie and I got stuck in the bathroom with you guys when you burst in. We were hiding in the tub. Steve was trying to get the punch that was spilled on you off, and then you started going on about partying and like you guys were in love, like you guys didn't kill Barb. Steve said, "Like we're in love," and then he asked, "You don't love me?" You said it was bullshit. It was all bullshit," Chrissy said and paused for a moment.

Nancy looked like she had been punched. Tears welled up in her blue eyes. Chrissy bit her lip again.

"Who brought me here?" Nancy asked.

"I had Jonathan and Argyle bring you here," Chrissy said.

"What happened to Steve?" She asked.

"Well, according to Robin. . .he ran out of the party crying, but not before he made sure you were okay," Chrissy said. "He asked Jonathan and Argyle to look after you."

"I didn't mean it," Nancy sniffled. "At least I don't think I did."

"Of course, you didn't, babe. You weren't exactly articulate, bullshit could have meant anything," Chrissy said.

"I just can't pretend like I'm okay anymore. I can't keep going to dinner with Barb's parents with Steve and knowing that we know what really happened with Barb. They still think it was a bear attack!" Nancy exclaimed. "They're moving, you know! Probably won't see them again."

"You've been having dinner with Barb's parents?" Chrissy asked.

"Uh, yeah. Steve offered to go with me, but I think he's getting tired of going," Nancy said. "And I'm tired of those bastards just sitting up there, getting away with murdering Barb!"

"Well, maybe it's finally time you sit down and talk with Steve about how you feel," Chrissy said. "Tell him what need from him."

"I don't know what that is, though," Nancy sighed as she laid back on the bed.

"Then tell him that. Tell him something. In your own way, you've both been putting this off for a very long time. I think it's because you were both afraid to hear the person you love tell you that it's your fault. You were afraid to hear those words from Steve, so you said them first, projecting your own guilt about Barb onto him. You both have been afraid that it might be true, but it's not. You need to tell each other that, and I guarantee that if you ask Steve, he'll tell you the same thing. It's not your fault what happened to me and Barb that night. You and Steve did nothing wrong. It was the asshole scientist who decided to play God, and who opened a door that he never should have," Chrissy said. "You need to be angry together, not angry at each other."

Nancy really needed to hear that because she broke down in sobs, collapsing in Chrissy's lap. Chrissy held her tightly as she cried, running her fingers through Nancy's hair. After a while, her sobs subsided, and she sat up, wiping her eyes. She hugged Chrissy tightly, clutching her as if her life depended on it.

"Are we always going to be fucked up?" Nancy whispered.

"Probably, but we can be fucked up together," Chrissy said.

"I love you," Nancy whispered.

"Love you, too, always," Chrissy said and pressed a hard kiss to her cheek.

She knew that Nancy wasn't a very affectionate person, but when the girl needed it, Chrissy was willing to give it as much as she wanted to. So, she let Nancy cling to her as long as possible before finally getting ready for school. She let Nancy borrow her clothes again and her products before making sure she ate plenty of breakfast as well as drank some more water. Dustin didn't question Nancy's presence. His mind was elsewhere, and every so often, he kept looking towards his bedroom.

"I think Dusty might have brought home another stray animal again," Chrissy whispered to Nancy.

"Again?" Nancy asked.

"I'll tell you later about the raccoon incident," Chrissy giggled.

It was Argyle and Jonathan who picked them up that morning. Robin surprised them by jumping out of the back of the van and hugging her sister tightly. Again, none of the Wheelers were very physically affectionate, but in moments like these, they held each other close. Chrissy smiled. They always found other ways to show each other they cared. Chrissy didn't miss the rock that Robin slipped into Nancy's pocket. Chrissy's smile grew.

"Thank you for being there for Steve," Nancy said.

"It wasn't a problem," Robin replied softly.

When they pulled up into the school parking lot, Eddie was parked a few feet away. Steve was leaning against his van, his arms crossed as Eddie talked softly with him. Chrissy motioned for them to stay with Argyle before walking over to Steve and Eddie.

"Hey, Steve," Chrissy said softly.

"How is she?" Steve asked.

"She's got a killer hangover," Chrissy said. "But I don't think that's what you meant. She's confused. She doesn't remember what happened last night, but I did tell her. We had a long talk this morning. I won't tell you exactly what she said, but she's getting ready to talk about Barb with you. She knows now that she needs to despite the fact she might not ever really be ready, but she can't keep it in either. Just don't give up. There's hope for you two. You should probably give each a couple of days to breathe, though. Let her get her thoughts together. Okay?"

"Yeah, okay," Steve said and paused. "I just didn't know how to help her, you know?"

"Letting her know that you feel lost too is the first step. The rest will hopefully fall into place," Chrissy said and hugged him tightly.

"How do you know so much?" Steve asked as he pulled back.

"By feeling mostly and a hell of a lot of therapy after I got removed from the Cunninghams," Chrissy said and sighed. "I'm not even sure what I'm doing or if it's even helping. . ."

"It is! Helping, that is," Steve said and paused. "Hey, do you have a clue why your boyfriend decided to measure my neck this morning?"

"Don't ask," Chrissy laughed as Eddie cackled.

"Yeah, I was afraid of that," Steve frowned as he walked ahead of them.

"You're amazing. You know that?" Eddie asked as he wrapped his arm around her waist.

"Hm, tell me more about how amazing I am," Chrissy beamed.

"There's so many things. . .where to start. . .where to start. . .I fucking love the way you snore, it's the cutest goddamn thing in the world," Eddie grinned.

"I don't snore!" Chrissy exclaimed.

"You do!"

"Do not!"

"Do too!"

"Not!"

"Too!"

"Freak!"

"Witch!"

The rest of the day was pretty awkward, especially around lunchtime when the group was separated. Argyle, Jonathan, Robin, and Nancy went off to eat at another table while the others remained where they were.

"What the fuck happened at that party?" Jeff asked.

"Let's just say Nancy and Steve had a fight. Let's leave it at that, shall we?" Chrissy asked.

Gareth, Frankie, and Jeff shared a look, but when they saw the look on Steve’s face, they didn't say anything. The day seemed to drag on, and before they knew it, they were leaving school again. This time, Chrissy was driven home by Eddie. Nancy and Robin were brought home by Argyle. It was strange coming home and getting ready for work, knowing what her friends were going through, but there wasn't much else she could do for them. They had to sort this out on their own. Chrissy had just put on her uniform when she and Eddie heard a curious noise from her brother's room. Frowning, she went to investigate. Chrissy rapped her knuckles on her brother's door. He slid the door open a couple of inches.

"Hey, Chrissy, Eddie, how's it going?" Dustin asked cheerfully.

"Well, you're definitely up to something," Eddie said.

"What makes you say that?" Dustin asked.

"Because nothing about your tone of voice sounds innocent," Eddie said, narrowing his eyes at him. "I doubt your mother knows what you're keeping in your room."

"Shut up! You're not my real dad!" Dustin exclaimed.

"Okay," Eddie said and turned to Chrissy. "I love your brother, but I feel like if I want to keep loving your brother, I'm going to have to wait in the van."

Eddie sighed, kissed Chrissy, and gave Dustin a look before leaving.

"Well, he's going to be helpful when you guys have kids," Dustin quipped.

"Dustin! You better not be keeping another raccoon in there! You know Mews is afraid of them!" Chrissy exclaimed.

"Chrissy. . .I can tell you with absolute certainty that I am not keeping a raccoon in my room," Dustin said seriously.

Chrissy sighed and narrowed her eyes at him before leaving. She hopped into Eddie's van and shared a look with him.

"We're never having kids," they said in unison.

"Who knows what kind of things my spawn would hide in their room? Probably weird lizard creatures that look like they come from a different plane of existence," Eddie said, and Chrissy laughed. "We would never be able to have cats because then the weird lizard creatures would eat them. Baby, we have to have cats."

"Noted. . .that's oddly descriptive, though. What's with the lizard creatures eating cats?" Chrissy asked.

"I don't know. It just popped into my head," Eddie said, shrugged.

Usually, her time at Surfer Boy perked her up, but not today. She couldn't get Nancy and Steve out of her head. She also felt Argyle's absence. He was always there whenever she worked, but he never showed up. Maybe he decided to help Nancy. The next day was even more strange. Nancy, Argyle, and Jonathan didn't show up to school. According to Robin, Nancy had decided to sleep over at Ally's but then never came home.

"I just don't get it. Why wouldn't she invite me?" Robin asked as she leaned against Chrissy's locker.

"Doesn't Ally not like you?" Chrissy asked.

"That's not the point. Nancy is my sister," Robin said. "And where the hell are the other two?"

"Well, I did say Nancy needed to a couple of days to breathe," Chrissy said. "Maybe they decided to skip."

"And they didn't invite me?" Robin whined.

"Relax, Robin," Chrissy laughed.

"You relax!"

She held onto the hope that Nancy really decided to take a day for herself. If anyone needed it, it was Nancy. She held onto it until lunchtime. Chrissy had long since gotten her food when her boyfriend and Steve sat down in front of her and Robin.

"Thanks for helping me out in the shower, man," Steve said.

"No, problem, I'll gladly help you anytime you have trouble with that asshole," Eddie said.

Chrissy froze, her spoon halfway to her mouth. Gareth and Jeff leaned forward with interest, their conversation long forgotten. Meanwhile, images were filling Chrissy's head.

"Okay, Chrissy's eyes are glazing over, we're going to need to some context before she goes somewhere else completely," Robin said.

"Uh, what?! Oh!" Eddie exclaimed. "Tommy and Billy were teasing Steve in the showers. I scared them off. . .and Chrissy, like I said, if I were to leave you for a man, it would be Jeff."

Chrissy huffed and rolled her eyes. She was a little disappointed but she could live.

"Chrissy, babe, you're worse than a man sometimes," Robin said.

"Well, I am livid. Now that the image is in my head, it is not leaving," Jeff said.

"Tell me about it," Chrissy said, and high fived Jeff.

"Stop proving my point, Jeff," Robin said.

"But just so you know, if you and Steve ever need 'help' in the shower, you have my full permission," Chrissy said.

"And mine!" Jeff chimed in.

"I don't need yours, man!" Eddie laughed.

"Seriously?" Robin asked.

"What? We're only young once. Besides, if you can't cross the boundaries of intimacy with your friends every once in a while, who can you cross them with?" Chrissy and ran her foot up his leg.

"Chrissy! That's my leg!" Steve exclaimed.

"Are you saying that we have an open relationship?" Eddie asked.

"I'm saying there's wiggle room to negotiate, especially for Steve. Isn't that right, big boy?" Chrissy winked at him, and he coughed on his chocolate milk. "Sorry, just trying to flirt with you to cheer you up. Is it working?"

"Yeah," Steve laughed. "Assholes."

"Well, if you can't beat 'em, eat 'em," Eddie said casually.

The table burst into laughter. Steve laughed as he shoved Eddie.

"Stupidest thing I ever heard, man," Steve said. "Doesn't even make sense."

It really was the stupidest thing Eddie ever uttered, but for some reason, it made them all laugh. The tension that had been slowly hanging over the air over the last day or so slowly started to fade. Chrissy really didn't want to ruin the moment, but she was curious about what Billy and Tommy said to Steve. She mostly just wanted to shake the image of a wet naked Eddie and Steve out of her head. Bad girl, Chrissy.

"So, what were they teasing you about?" Chrissy said.

"Oh, just about how someone saw Nancy take off with Jonathan and how they left town together," Steve scowled.

"Well, I think Argyle went with them. All three of them are gone," Robin said.

"Wait, she seriously left?" Eddie asked.

"Well, Nancy needed to clear her head. Jonathan and Argyle probably went to help her," Chrissy said.

"They'll probably be back by this afternoon," Robin shrugged.

"Right," Steve sighed as he played with his food, causing Robin to kick him. "Ow! Robin!"

"Steve!"

"Why?!"

"Turn that frown upside down, popeye."

The rest of the day went by a little easier, even with Hargrove's eyes on her. Eddie took both Chrissy and Dustin home that afternoon. He was going to take Chrissy to work again before heading over to Thatcher's Tire. Dustin was out of the van before Eddie could come to a complete stop.

"Wait, until I stop, butthead!" Eddie yelled and turned to Chrissy. "He's going to make my hair go gray."

"Aw, do you want Mommy to fix Daddy a martini?" Chrissy asked. "Hard day at work, did you? The kids driving you up the wall?"

"Ha, fucking, ha, Henderson," Eddie scoffed.

Chrissy laughed as she got out of the van and followed her brother. She unlocked the door, letting the three of them into the house. Their mother wasn't home from work yet, so it was just them. Chrissy was in desperate need of a cat cuddle, though.

"Mews! Here, kitty, kitty, kitty!" Chrissy said and made kissing noises. "Where is he?"

"Mews? Here, boy!" Eddie called.

"Dusty? Did you leave a window open again?" Chrissy asked.

"Shit! Shit! Shit!" Dustin exclaimed and ran towards his room.

The two of them followed Dustin to his bedroom. He opened the door, leaving it open for the other two to follow. There was a strange chewing and growling sound coming from behind his chair. They moved closer to the chair, and Chrissy froze. A rather familiar looking creature, smaller than usual, was behind the chair and chowing down on what was left of Mews. Chrissy gasped. The creature popped its head up and turned to them, opening its face up like a flower.

"WHAT THE FUCK?!" Eddie screamed.

The baby demogorgon ran at them, and Dustin hurried to push them out of the room before slamming the door. Chrissy stared at her little brother with wide eyes. That's what he had been keeping in his room? She was about to say something to him when Eddie screamed again. Chrissy turned to him and grabbed his arms.

"Eddie, baby, I'm so sorry," Chrissy said softly.

"Sorry?" He gasped as his eyes widened in confusion.

"I haven't been entirely truthful with you. . ."

Chapter Nineteen

[masterqwertster]

I'm obsessed with "FCG becomes human and fucking hates it" rn. I'm just imagining all the shitty things about a living human body that he's never thought of and it's just.

FCG: i feel like shit. my entire body hurts and my head is spinning and i'm gonna pass out

Ashton: have you had any water ?

FCG: i had some yesterday

Ashton, screaming internally: you need to drink water every day!!

Yup! It would be quite the adjustment for the boi to be flesh and blood. To have legs for locomotion. To be soft. To need to breathe. To have a heartbeat. To need sleep. To get hungry and thirsty. To potentially have libido. To blush and cry. To sneeze and cough and burp and hiccup. To maybe have hair. And a thousand other things we don't think about because they're just there and a part of living.

Though I will say, personally I'd love for FCG to reincarnate more exotic (I know that Reincarnate has a list, but also that list was written with the Player's Handbook alone, so any playable race not in the PHB isn't even considered in Rules as Written for that spell).

Like, bring him back as a Small-size Tabaxi/Katari. I want my little guy to stay little and super cuddle-sized and become more cuddly. Also, a little kitten fellow would be amazing. And he'd be one of those dumb orange/yellow cats. It'd be perfect. Sam's a cat.