#I even teared the cover a bit while opening the paper case due to excitement

[lil-melody-moon]

Okay so, a little story today!

I have this record shop which sells used CDs and vinyls near my university. I'm going there once a month or whether the guy posts that they have new stuff or when my intuition screams at me to go there. And today, while having a break during lessons I just sat at university, chilling and suddenly I thought: "Hey, the weather is not very warm today, there's wind, but you've sat in a building since 9:45 am. Let's go on a walk!"

I was more than okay with this idea and then I started to wonder if I should go on a walk or to visit the shop. My intuition was repeating like mad to go to the shop so I did.

There was nothing in the older section so I went to search through the heavy metal section and let me tell you this. Not everything in Middle Europe is easy to get. Not like we are poor here, no, quite the opposite, but some things are just not published here so, such places as this shop, where the owner goes to other countries to get used CDs is a blessing.

And guess what! Serj Tankian's CDs are difficult to get here for a price that is not ridiculous and yet I JUST FOUND "ELECT THE DEAD" TODAY AND I'M SO FUCKING HAPPY YOU CAN'T EVEN IMAGINE!

[luvrgirl555]

what does leaving mean? (part two) -- S.R.

part one

masterlist

taglist: @introvertatitsfinest @criesinreid @hailmary-yramliah​ @youareperrrfectls​

an: thank you for so much love on part one <3 it really does mean the world to me and i hope this part two is good as well :) thank you for reading!! i always enjoy comments and notes as well hehe

2k+ words

warnings: some angst :( 

spencer kept his head pointed downwards while walking from the elevator to his desk in the bullpen.

the team wasn’t surprised, considering he had been keeping his distance from them the past couple of weeks, but they were starting to worry.

penelope, ever the peacemaker, decided to make him a cup of coffee and bring it over with only a few (15) bags of sugar.

she set the cup down on the coaster on his desk, the coaster that had been painted by the hands of a three year old little girl.

his three year old little girl.

he didn’t look up from the case file in his hands when penelope walked over to him, or even when she set the cup down or tried to hand him the sugar.

she gulped before asking, “reid?”

he looked up and blinked at her.

“are you alright?”

“fine,” he replied, clearing his throat and going back to the file.

at this point, jj, tara and luke made their way over to his desk as well each of them looking at him with sad eyes.

“man, you okay?” luke finally piped up, and spencer rolled his eyes.

“i thought we didn’t profile each other,” he span his desk chair around, partly so they couldn’t see his body language but also because they way they surrounded him made him feel like a victim getting hounded for answers.

“spence, if you need help you can always come to us,” jj said, her tone soft, motherly.

“goddammit,” he muttered and stood up, briskly walking away in the direction of the restrooms.

spencer was never good at hiding his emotions, never good at saying what was wrong, and especially not at asking for help.

was that why you’d left? he asked himself every moment.

all of the things that he’d done over the past months, past years, raced through his mind as he tried to piece together your relationship while he lie alone in his bed.

he didn’t know how he didn’t see it coming. had he really been so oblivious to all the signs? had you just been so good at hiding it?

he wished everything could go back to when you first met him and time stood still. when you taught him to dance with you in the kitchen and taught him that it’s okay to love again.

the cool water he splashed on his face didn’t make him feel better, or make the tears that constantly threatened to fall go away. nothing had been making him feel better.

he threw himself into case files, taking on extra work that he could do when he should have been sleeping.

he couldn’t sleep, not without you there, and especially not while knowing that he shouldn’t even call you or attempt to hear your voice. 

he thought you didn’t want that.

a feeling of hopelessness started to enter his mind, the same hopelessness he hadn’t felt in years, not since prison.

footsteps entering the room made him look up from the sink to see luke.

spencer looked back down at the sink, trying anything to avoid eye contact with his friend.

“we’re all just worried about you, man,” luke finally spoke.

spencer’s lips scrunched up to the right as he tried to keep it together.

“is it y/n? emma? are they okay?”

one of spencer’s hands went to cover his watery eyes as luke pulled him in for a hug.

spencer’s entire body just seemed to break down in luke’s arms. he felt like his legs turned into jelly as he clung onto luke’s shoulders for dear life and he cried.

he sobbed.

something luke had never seen before, not from spencer.

everyone assumed that he was an unbreakable man. someone who had gone through everything, and someone who was incredible at coping.

none of those things weren’t true.

“she’s gone,” he sniffled “they’re all gone.”

luke was able to stand spencer back on his feet while spencer rubbed the remaining tears from his face.

“they’re gone?” luke tried to clarify.

“she’s left, and i don’t know if she’s coming back.”

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

“mama,” a little voice says while little hands tug on your jeans.

“what is it, ems?” you reply, warily. you haven’t been getting much sleep recently. possibly due to the fact that you were around 30 weeks pregnant and more likely due to the fact that you missed your spencer.

it didn’t feel hard, basically raising emma on your own because you’d done that before. every time spencer was on a case, or when she was really little and he was in prison. it wasn’t that transition that you struggled with, it was the fact that you didn’t feel like you could call him. the fact that emma asked for him around 30 times a day, and rising, because she hadn’t seen him for weeks.

“mama, where daddy?” she asked.

“daddy’s at work,” you replied, just like every other time she asked.

you handed her a sippy cup filled with juice and led her to the sofa to sit.

you had been staying at a friends house after you called her sobbing with the news a few days after you’d left the house.

“can daddy read me?” she asked running over the bag you’d brought with some of her things, including a few picture books.

“i don’t think so. i think daddy’s busy,” you offered, gently brushing her blonde curls out of her eyes.

“call?” she asked softly, and by the way she stuck her bottom lip out you knew she was about to cry.

she’d been a strong little girl, always trying to comfort you when you cried and rarely crying herself, even when she wanted her dad, but you knew that would be coming to an end very soon.

you sighed.

“do you want to go see if daddy’s at work with auntie jj and auntie penny?” you asked and a smile immediately returned to her face.

she was tired, you could tell, but you had a feeling she’d go down for a nap much better with a story from her father.

and you could also tell that you needed to see him too.

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

“right, we’ll see you soon,” jj hung up the phone and breathed a sigh of relief.

“what was that all about?” rossi asked, while dropping off some papers for her.

“y/n and emma are headed over here,” she whispered and dave hummed with a smile and a nod.

just then spencer walked back into the room, looking more disheveled and less bright eyed than before. luke followed after him, giving him a few pats on the back before heading to his respective desk.

spencer quickly made his way up the stairs and knocked on the door to emily’s office. she let him in quickly and jj could see through the window that he sat down and she sat beside him while his head was bowed.

minutes felt like hours while jj watched emily comfort, or at least try to comfort him while he cried.

minutes later when he stood up and began to exit the room the doors to the bau opened behind jj.

in ran an excited three year old girl, bounding as fast as her little legs could carry her.

you followed behind her, sadly smiling at how happy and excited she was.

she needed this.

when spencer saw her tears immediately rushed to his eyes for what felt like the millionth time today.

he needed this.

“dada!” emma screamed, which made a few people in the office laugh but she didn’t care, and neither didn’t her mom or dad.

he went down the stairs and walked towards his little daughter quickly scooping her up in his arms and holding her tight.

she lay her head on his shoulder and tried to wrap her arms around his neck while she giggled.

“hi baby,” he whispered, running his hands through her thin, blonde hair.

you could tell he was crying but trying not to show it, which made tears well in your eyes even more.

he looked over at you and you smiled, but he could see the sadness in your eyes.

“y/n!” you heard, the one and only penelope exclaim when she walked in the room and you looked over your shoulder to greet her.

she, along with jj and emily gave you a hug while spencer brought emma over to his desk and sat down with her on his lap.

you walked over to them when you were done greeting everyone and pulled the book emma had insisted on out of your purse.

you could see her talking animatedly while she sat, constantly moving her hands just like he did.

spencer just smiled so big he didn’t feel like anything could ever ruin this moment.

“and miss you, daddy,” you heard her say when she quickly gave him another hug.

he gave her another squeeze.

“i miss you too, ems,” he replied and she began to pull away and pointed at you.

“mama miss you,” she said simply.

he looked up at you and you nodded a little bit, looking down where you couldn’t see much of anything except your pregnant belly.

“i miss mama, too,” he whispered and she smiled.

“read me?” emma quickly asked, completely not understanding social cues which made you smile.

“of course!” he exclaimed while you handed the book over.

he didn’t need it, he had every single one of her books memorized, he could have recited an entire library for her, but he opened the book and started on page one while she lay in the crook of his neck to fall asleep.

you listened while he spoke in different tones and inflections, his eyes moving swiftly across the page. you tried desperately to memorize this moment in your head, so you could never forget what he looked like, especially when he looked so happy.

you needed this.

when he finished he handed you back the book and you tried to take emma back, “well we should be going,” you said. “thank you for reading to her, she wouldn’t go down without it.”

“wait, y/n,” he quickly stood up and bit his lip nervously.

“spencer?” you replied when he didn’t say anything more.

jj came and grabbed emma from you when she noticed what was going on, and you gulped when spencer grabbed your free hands.

“can we talk?” he asked.

you breathed heavily.

“spence-” you started but he cut you off, already knowing what you were going to say.

“just a few minutes?”

you conceded, and he led you to an empty room that you remember previously being derek’s office.

he grabbed both of your hands again and you looked up at him, a huff on your face.

“i wasn’t lying when i said i miss you,” he said.

“i miss you too,” you said, “but now i don’t have to get my hopes up.”

you pulled away and walked behind him.

“i messed up.”

“yeah...” you trailed off. you could feel the hurt in your heart manifesting through your voice and you began crying softly.

“oh, please,” spencer turned to look at you, “don’t cry.”

“i can’t seem to stop,” you hastily wiped the water from your face.

“i’m so sorry,” he whispered.

you nodded.

“i know.”

he gulped.

“i’m sorry, too,” you brushed a piece of hair behind your ear, “for leaving like that.”

“i understand why you did,” spencer gently takes your hand again. “i’ve been a horrible father and even worse husband.”

“i wouldn’t say horrible,” you argued.

he shook his head, “i promised i would never end up like my father, and i did,” he seems annoyed at himself. “i pushed and pushed you away, and i have never been more sorry for anything.”

you can tell how sincere he is by the way his eyes lock on yours and how tightly his hand is squeezing.

you close your eyes and quickly fall into his arms in the tightest hug you both can manage, feeling gentle kicks between the two of you.

“i don’t want you to leave, y/n,” he says, shakily.

“i don’t want to leave.”

you feel his hands gently cup your face as he leans down to connect your lips with his. you melt in the feeling that you’ve been missing and craving for so long.

when you opened your eyes he said, “i’ll start teaching again, full time even, whatever it takes.”

you smile.

“i don’t want you to quit your job, spence,” you bring your hand up to his cheek and stroke with your thumb, “i just want you to come be with us every one in a while.”

“i promise,” he says grabbing your arm and kissing you again.

as hard as he can.

promising himself he’ll never lose you again.

[thatwitchrevan]

I haven't been able to finish Moon Knight yet but I've enjoyed the first few episodes so far and I really enjoy Marc and Steven's relationship with Layla ;-; Layla has a really vibrant personality and I pretty much adored her immediately, and I love fictional dynamics with estranged spouses that still love each other. Even better if they reconcile, because while I love breakup arcs and think they're important, I'm also soft for divorced or separated characters getting back together because they love and miss each other and manage to make it work 👀

Also love her learning about Steven and developing a relationship with him as well as Marc. Steven is so sweet on her and it's really cute, and I appreciate how quick she was to treat Steven like his own person once she understood that that was the case and that he's not just a cover for Marc. I don't know nearly enough about DID to speak on whether Moon Knight is good representation but seeing someone so close to Marc understand and acknowledge Steven as a person and treat him and Marc both with respect and no sign of revulsion or fear when she begins to understand what's going on seems very nice and refreshing.

There's a little bit of strife due to the fact that Marc didn't tell her about all of this and he and Steven are clearly struggling, but Layla doesn't seem to be upset or uncomfortable with the fact that they're a system in of itself, just that it was hidden from her. That takes an open mind and a lot of compassion to adjust so well to big and new information about someone you know so intimately, but I think the narrative also makes it very clear why Marc didn't feel like he could talk about it and why he pushed her away.

Anyway I love them... I'm probably not gonna see the rest of the season until my brother is home to watch with us but I'm excited to see it and I hope someone tears those divorce papers up ❤️

[ericsonclan]

How to Trick a Ghost

Summary: Sophie and Minnie work to set up a surprise birthday party for Tenn but how do you hide a party from a ghost?

Word Count: 1819

Read on AO3:

Minnie looked at all the party supplies, her talons clicking impatiently against the floor. She wanted to start decorating already but Sophie told her to wait. With a small huff Minnie sat on the floor and started to build a nest out of some party streamers. It was actually pretty comfy. She burrowed into the copious amount of party streamers, happy chirps and tweets leaving her lips as she closed her eyes.

Suddenly the sound of fluttering wings appeared along with Sophie carrying a tower of party hats on her head and a mannequin with her talons. “Mission successful,” Sophie grinned as she dove down and did a clumsy landing. The harpy quickly redirected her course though and fell to the ground with a bit more grace.

“Tenn is distracted?” Minnie poked her head out of her nest, a blue streamer draped over her head.

“Yep! He sure does love my art box!” Sophie fluffed up her feathers with pride then glanced over at Minnie. “Uh, Minnie, those are supposed to be draped on the walls, not your face,”

“I know that!” Minnie gave an embarrassed chirp. “I was just trying to guard and hide them in case Tenn showed up. Y’know ghosts, they can just zoom through walls like it’s no big deal,”

“True, true. Well he’s gonna be busy for a while. As soon as I let him use my art box his eyes got all big and shiny,” Sophie smiled, picking up some streamers and flying up to place them with her talons. “He possessed a colored pencil right away and I swear I’ve never seen a pencil race that fast across a piece of paper,” Sophie gave a pleased tweet and a twitter at the recent memory when she paused, her head tilted slightly to the side. What was she forgetting?

After a moment her eyes grew large. “I forgot the tape! I’ll be right back!” Not waiting a second the harpy was off, zipping through the house like it was nothing. She searched all around the front living room, then the dining room table. Nope, not there. Sophie tapped her talon against the floor, unsure where to look when she recalled that there was some tape in her room. The harpy was off like a shot once more and it wasn’t until she had already opened the door that she remembered that Tenn was in there. The loud sound startled the ghost who slipped out of the pencil, his form turning a bit fuzzy due to being spooked.

“Oops, sorry,” Sophie gave a small series of apologetic chirps and walked forward. “Just gotta grab some tape to-” She paused, catching herself before spilling the beans on the surprise birthday party her and Minnie were throwing for Tenn. “Fix my backpack?”

“Your backpack?” Tenn quirked an eyebrow, unsure what his sister even meant.

“Yep! It’s a harpy thing!” Sophie snatched up the roll of tape. “Anyways, whatcha drawing?”

Her question was answered by Tenn possessing the piece of paper and moving away. After a moment he poked his form out of the object.

“Sorry, it's just...” The ghost couldn’t think of an excuse that wouldn’t give away what he was drawing.

“It’s okay, I don’t have to see it if you don’t want me to,”

“You can see it, just not yet,” Tenn fidgeted with his fingers, the edges of his ghostly form twirling in the air.

“Okay!” Sophie grinned then reached forward and tried to ruffle her brother’s hair but her hand phased through. “Damn it, keep forgetting. Alright, I’ll leave you to it then!” Sophie gave one more smile then flew out of the room. Tenn waited a few moments then quickly returned to possessing the colored pencils; immediately the red pencil went to work.

Minnie was in the middle of blowing up a balloon when her twin reappeared.

“I’m back!”

Sophie’s voice caused the harpy to inhale sharply, choking on air. Minnie made a weird face, little odd twitters and chirps leaving her lips as she tried to clear her throat. Sophie zoomed forward and whacked Minnie’s back with a hearty hit, helping her catch her breath. Minnie gave her sister an annoyed look and Sophie gave a nervous laugh.

“Oops, sorry about that. So, whatcha working on?” Sophie poked her head over her twin’s shoulder and noticed the ghost-shaped balloons.

“I thought Tenn would like it,” Minnie looked down shyly.

“He totally will! Alright, I got the tape so we can get started!” Sophie flew a few circles in the air to burn off some of her excitement then got to work putting up streamers. The twins worked hard on the decorations as they spoke about the party, both of them buzzing on the anticipation of their brother’s face when he saw the party. After a little while though Sophie paused. “Wait, what if he sees this early?”

Those words worried Minnie, her mind spiraling for a moment. “Salt!”

“Right! Genius move, salt repels ghosts,” Sophie disappeared and returned moments later, a happy, proud smile on her lips as she showed the container of salt. “Let's get this circle made!”

“Sophie?”

“Yes, Minnie?” Sophie smiled over at her twin.

“Why the hell did you make the circle so small?” Minnie gestured to the tiny circle that barely encircled her.

“We didn’t have enough salt for the room so I thought I’d focus on just us...”

“The salt doesn’t make us invisible though and Tenn would still see all the decorations,”

Minnie’s words made Sophie realize her mistake.

“Oh shit. Well, ummm,” Sophie shrugged. “Oh well, he definitely can’t reach you now. Anyways, can I get on your shoulders? My arms hurt but I still need to put up the banner,” Minnie sighed “Fine,”

Sophie beamed at those words. Soon the twins were back at it with decorating until the next question popped up in Sophie’s mind.

“Minnie, what did we buy for party food?”

“Ghost peppers,”

Sophie blinked at that answer. “Those are super hot. They’re gonna burn our mouths off.”

“Yeah, but I don't know, I thought maybe ghosts could eat them because, y’know, the name,”

Sophie stifled a laugh. The action made a frown appear on Minnie’s lips as her feathers ruffled in embarrassment.

“Maybe we should’ve made some boo-loney sandwiches too. Oh! Oh! Or maybe we can bake some boo-berry pie,” Sophie devolved into a fit of laughter and fell onto the floor, tears in her eyes as wheezy chirps left her lips.

Minnie’s frown remained; her feathers were extremely ruffled. “Whatever, I know you’re a dumbass too.”

Sophie kept laughing for another few seconds then got up to her feet. “Okay, okay, yes, I am a dumbass but at least it wasn’t about ghost peppers,” Sophie smiled and felt Minnie nudge her side. “Anyways, back to decorating,” Sophie strolled over to get the mannequin but soon paused. “But first, one more joke. What does a ghost order at an Italian restaurant?” “I don’t know, what?” Minnie asked but then immediately figured it out and answered at the same time her twin did.

“Spook-ghetti!”

The sisters smiled, sharing a quick laugh and in that moment all was forgiven and they worked to get the mannequin to look snazzy so that Tenn would look great at his party. Sophie threw on a feather boa and Minnie tossed on a pair of birthday sunglasses. After that was done the twins looked around at their great decorating skills then shared a fist bump. It was time to get Tenn.

“Just close your eyes and hover over this way,” Minnie guided her younger brother who was absolutely confused. He was currently floating about inside his artwork since he wanted to show it to his sisters. After a while though he slipped out of the item when Minnie said to open his eyes. Slowly opening them, his mouth went ajar as he took in the sight of the room. Streamers of blue and purple covered the walls and cute cartoon ghost balloons floated nearby. On a table there were ghost peppers, some bottles with flavored mist labeled ghost water and a cake with beautiful unicorns on it. Next to the cake was way too many presents for two harpies to afford or for a ghost to own. Beside the table was a mannequin with a pink feather boa and birthday sunglasses with a name tag that said: Hi, my name is Tenn, a 10/10 brother.

“So, like it?” Sophie leaned forward, her talons anxiously scratching on the floor. Minnie seemed just as nervous; her eyes had taken a more panicked anticipation.

“Like it?” Tenn managed, his voice soft. “I love it! This is amazing!” He gave one of the biggest smiles that the twins had ever seen. The two of them crowed with joy and fist bumped again as Tenn started to float up higher in the air without meaning to. He was always this way whenever his happiness was too much for his small ghost form to contain.

Tenn was so caught up in his happiness that he was halfway through the ceiling when he snapped out of it at the sound of Sophie’s curious chirping. Glancing down, he noticed that she had found the art. In an instant he flew through the air and hovered over it.

“I wanted to surprise you two with a drawing,” Tenn fidgeted with his fingers as his sister studied the art. It was all three of them standing in front of their house. Sophie had a paint brush and easel and was flying in the air while Minnie was busy playing a song on her guitar while Tenn hovered in the air above them with a smile.

Minnie and Sophie were silent for a few seconds.

“Holy shit, this is...” Minnie looked up at her brother with the happiest smile, “Fucking amazing!”

“Yeah! It's so cool and cute! I love it!” Sophie tried to tackle her brother with a hug but phased through. “Oh shit,” The harpy whispered as she realized her mistake too late before crashing on the floor.

“Soph, you okay?” Tenn’s ghost form flew over his sister.

“Yep!” Sophie gave a thumbs up.

Tenn gave a relieved smile at that. “Oh, I can possess the mannequin, then you get your hug,”

Sophie and Minnie both gave happy twitters at that and soon Tenn dove down, possessing the mannequin. The twins instantly flew forward and wrapped their arms around it, the closest form of Tenn they could touch.

“Happy birthday, Tenn,” Minnie gave a soft smile at her brother.

“Yeah! Happy birthday! You’re thirty three!”

Tenn gave a small sigh. Even if the fire happened around twenty years ago he felt closer to the age he had become as a ghost. “Thanks,” Tenn felt an overwhelming warmth take over his heart. He couldn’t wait to celebrate his first birthday as a ghost.

[cutie1365]

A Kid from Queens Part 15

Pairing: Peter Parker x Stark!Reader

Info: CA: Civil War Era. Tony Stark enlists his daughter to find the web slinging spider in Queens.

Word count: 1.6k

Warnings: n/a

(no Far From Home spoilers)

A/N: There’s one part where maybe pretend you have an ‘A’ initial, this idea was written more for my OC on Wattpad, so I’m sorry, but I kinda love it so I didn’t wanna change it.

Masterlist linked in my bio. Taglist in the reblog.

- - - - - 🕷 - - - - -

“Where are you headed all dressed up?” Tony asks as you’re leaving your room at the compound.

“All dressed up? Dad this is a suit.” You laughed him off, he walked with you as you were making your way towards the front to board the jet.

“Alright Scully, where are you headed? Did I miss a memo for a shareholder meeting or something?” Tony asked.

Ever since you’d presented the information to him about the Mayor, he had been extra protective. But you’d done as he suggested, you turned the information over to the FBI. They suggested that for the time being, you keep up with Thomas and the family for appearances sake, to not cause suspicion. You told this to your father. What you didn’t tell him was that the FBI invited you to aid in the investigation, due to your proximity to the case you’d be useful. Also considering they were likely stealing from a government warehouse that was half Stark owned and maintained. You’d be a good person to have on board, and your commitment would be minimal. You’d publically stay with Thomas until they told you it was time to distance yourself, meaning they’d found something or want to provoke the family into making a mistake and slipping up, hopefully exposing a hole in their network they could exploit. You thought it was a good idea, you also thought it would be best for your father’s nerves if you didn’t tell him the full story.

“I guess someone doesn’t read their emails. But no, Linda has me judging the annual robotics competition at MIT, so it’s Back to School for me.” You spoke, digging through your purse, making sure you had everything, your suitcase should have already been on the jet, but you were only going to be gone for a few days.

Tony nodded, as if he now remembered seeing something about that somewhere. He saw the jet on the tarmac, ready to take off any minute as you both stood before the glass entrance of the compound.

“Alright Animal House, no toga parties.” He hugged you goodbye, you chuckled at the thought of a bunch of engineers throwing a toga party.

“I’ll try my best. I’ll be back in a few days. Oh, and tell Wanda I left a box of clothes for her in my room. And I made a prototype of an upgrade for Rhodey’s braces that I left in the lab for you to do some testing on.” You began to ramble off things for him, knowing there was a low chance he’d remember everything.

“Alright mother hen, you don’t want to be late.” He hugged you once more, shooing you off.

You made your way to the jet, as Tony watched you from a distance. His little girl, all grown up. He hadn’t seen you this happy in a while, it brought a smile to his face. Ever since he’d practically ordered you to stay away from Peter, he noticed a change in you. You spent so much time in the lab, tinkering on things to take your mind off of life. You were rushed around from interview to interview, dress fitting to dress fitting, and photoshoot to photoshoot. He noticed the toll it was taking on you. He hated seeing you so run down, and nearly considered giving the kid a chance. Maybe things wouldn’t be so bad, it worked for him and Pepper, it might just be able to work for them. He’s a good kid, but he’s not willing to take a chance yet, not when it comes to his daughters safety. He’s kept you safe for a long time, and he didn’t want to ever see you hurt again.

- - - - - 🕷 - - - - -

As you arrived in Boston, after a quick flight, a car was waiting to take you the rest of the way to MIT.

The car pulled into the familiar streets where you’d resided for a few years when you were younger. You hadn’t been back in years, yet it all looked the same. Near the entrance you spotted some of your old professors chatting, likely they were also judges.

“Y/N.” One greeted you, his expression somewhere between surprise and joy.

“Dr. Greenfield, it’s nice to see you again.” You smiled, shaking his hand.

“You’re all grown up now aren’t you. You know, I still remember your first day in my class. I had to go home and rework half of my lesson plans.” He chuckled at the memory. You remembered sitting in his class, answering all his questions that were meant to stump the class. He was a sweet older man, and you were happy to be here with him now.

You chatted and caught up for a few more minutes before you were invited inside to check in and meet the teams. You were given a metal name plate that you slipped on. Dr. A. Stark, it read.

You met the other 5 judges and mingled for a bit while the teams were still setting up in their prospective rooms. Some were industry experts, some were old professors of yours. Each judge had been assigned to a team, to mentor and offer insight and guidance before the final judging in two days time.

When a facilitator led you into a room of five boys standing in front of their invention, you weren’t met with the warm welcome you were expecting.

“Gentleman, I’d like to introduce you to your mentor Dr.-” The facilitator was cut off by one of the boys, he seemed to be the ringleader of the group.

“No, no, our mentor is Dr. A. Stark. Anthony Stark. Not some...” He waved his hand at you, trying to think of the best descriptor, “Vogue cover girl.”

You’d had a nice day so far, you were willing to let it slide, but when he opened his mouth and spoke to you with such disrespect, you were going to make him wish he’d called in sick today. The facilitator, likely a student committee volunteer, had her mouth hung open slightly in shock, she didn’t know what to do. So you stepped forward towards the boys, and that’s exactly what they were.

“You got Dr. A. Stark. Y/N (I’m sorry my OC has an A initial) Stark. My father actually doesn’t have a PhD. But I’ve got two. One of them in Electrical Engineering from this fine university.” You raised your hands motioning to the school around you, stepping closer once more, and oh if looks could kill. “But if you don’t want my help, I’m sure there are other teams who would be happy to have me...”

You turned on your heel and made one strutt towards the door before whipping around once more.

“By the way, you’re going to need the help, because I can spot six errors already from here. Seven if you count that sloppy rotary potentiometer.” And with that, you spun towards the door once more and didn’t look back at what you were certain were five speechless boys nearly shaking in their boots.

You’d certainly inherited a flair for the dramatics from your father, but this time it was merely a facade. Deep down you were on the verge of tears. This was your livelihood, you didn’t care if the civilian population thought you were some brainless covergirl, but you at least thought the people in your own field would respect you. The opinion of five students shouldn’t have hit you as hard as it did, but it now had you questioning everything. Every move you’ve made since that damn photograph came out.

You were leaning on the wall in the stairwell, if you were going to cry, you were going to make sure none of them saw you do it. You suddenly heard the large metal door open next to you, and a student looked at you in shock.

“Dr. Stark?” He asked, he wasn’t one of the boys from before, he must have been on another team. You knew he wasn’t like the others, he at least seemed to recognize you and your title.

“That would be me.” You smiled, lifting yourself off the wall slightly.

“I read your paper on nanoparticle technology. I think it’s completely revolutionary, I mean the implications alone... I just, it blew my mind.” He smiled, you watched as he spoke so passionately, waving his hands about as he spoke. A smile slowly spread to your face as well. In his excitement, he’d forgotten to introduce himself. He was tall but lanky, with a dirty blond mop of hair resting on his head, and deep blue eyes.

“That was my doctoral thesis from a few years ago. Back then the idea was completely theoretical, but even today at Stark Industries we’re developing prototypes using only nanotech.” You stated proudly.

“How’d you get around the deterioration objective?” He asked, with a slight tilt of his head.

“A housing unit that harnesses palladium and vibranium to almost charge the particles.” You explained, enjoying watching his eyes pop as you explained. It was refreshing talking to someone who spoke your language.

“That’s brilliant. It’s really such an honor to meet you. I know my team and I would be grateful if you would be able to spare a few minutes to look at our design? Our mentor is just... well he doesn’t have your experience.” He rubbed the back of his head nervously.

“I’ll see what I can do.” You smiled, “I’m sorry, I didn’t catch your name.”

“Harley, Harley Keener.” He shook your hand with a smile.

- - - - - 🕷 - - - - -

Taglist in reblog

Please comment, like, and reblog!

Sorry this chapter is a little shorter, I’ve basically got the next one written but I thought it might be too long to combine them. Don’t worry Peter’s coming in soon!

[thgfanficinspo]

Fear of the Water - Ch 18

Finnick deals with the fallout from Annie’s breakdown (some sexy Capitol Finnick) (Henry Cavill was my fancast for Finnick before the movie came out)

My AO3 - Chapter 1 - Jonsa - Coryo - Discovery of Witches

(ANNIE)

When I wake up, I’m in a white tube. It’s small so small and I’m strapped down – arms, legs, body, even head. There’s a whirring, buzzing sound coming from within the walls. Then there are voices.

“Aw, shit, she’s awake.”

“Should we put her back down?”

I struggle against my bonds. Are they going to kill me? Why am I here? What are they doing to me?

“Yeah, she’s gonna fuss.”

There are footsteps now – coming toward me. I try to tear my arms out of their bonds but nothing happens. I scream. The voices yell to one another and I scream and I scream and I scream. I don’t want this. Finnick and Mags said it was over now and I was safe and I don’t think they’d lie to me but maybe they did or maybe they never said it at all I don’t want to die.

There’s a sharp pain in my right thigh. Then it goes dark.

(FINNICK)

We’re supposed to go back to that damn waiting room with the grey walls and floor-length windows and fake orchid.

I skulk around in the hallway after the others have gone inside, hoping to catch a moment alone with the female doctor who flirted with me. She comes out through a doorway which she locks behind her. She’s too distracted by the papers in her hand to notice me. I clear my throat and she looks up.

“Mr. Odair. Shouldn’t you be in the waiting room?”

“It’s a bit stuffy in their for my taste,” I say. “Especially after all that drama.” I straighten up and close the space between us.

“Yes, that was really something,” she agrees. Her eyes rake my body up and down. She has to turn away.

“Have you ever seen anything like that before?”

“I haven’t personally.”

“No?” I’m not nearly as smooth as I usually am. I’m too anxious to be charming. “Annie’s something special then.” I step up behind her and move her hair away from the side of her neck. “Like you.” I press my lips to the side of her neck and she nearly collapses. I keep my arms tight around her waist and pull her against me.

She gasps my name.

“Will you tell me something?”

“What?” she asks breathlessly.

I flick the tip of my tongue over the pulse-point of her throat. “What are you planning to do with Annie Cresta?”

“Anthea!” We both look up. Her male colleague is standing at the other end of the hallway. He’s a good ten years younger than she is, but he has an air of superiority about him. And he looks pissed.

The woman – Anthea, I guess – goes ramrod straight and tosses off my arms. “It’s not –”

“We need to talk,” he says simply, his glaring eyes locked on mine. Anthea hustles down the hall and through the door the male doctor came through. He and I maintain eye contact as long as possible, until the door shuts behind him.

I growl under my breath. “Fuck.”

I’ve definitely made things worse. If that other damn doctor hadn’t come in . . .

Mags is pacing around the room with one of her hands over her mouth when I come in. Proteus stands a few feet away from me, apparently deep in thought. Eefa has made a surprise visit, which she clearly regrets. No sign of Broadsea, but that’s no surprise. He’s probably passed out in his own puke by now. I normally wouldn’t care but I feel that since Eefa made it here, he should’ve at least tried.

Proteus raises an eyebrow at me, silently asking what I found out. I shake my head.

The same two doctors as before come out to speak to us after about twenty minutes of waiting. They’re much more serious. “She did suffer trauma to the head while in the Arena,” the man says.

“But you don’t think that’s what’s causing her issues,” Proteus says.

Anthea nods. Gone is the quivering woman in the hall, replaced with someone cold and angry. She’s going out of her way to not look at me. “The tasks we had her do when she first woke up didn’t indicate any neurological or physiological issues. We did scans, too, after her tantrum at the recap, and they didn’t show anything out of the ordinary.”

“Tantrum?” I repeat.

“Then what’s wrong?” Proteus asks over me.

“We believe it’s mental illness,” the male doctor says.

None of us know what that means. We don’t have mental illness in the districts, at least not the words to describe it, but the Capitol has words for everything. They have enough leisure time to think about things like that, to come up with ailments to explain their every mood.

Our faces must betray our inability to understand because they take a different route.

The female doctor is the one to speak. “We are going to have Annie Cresta declared mentally insane.”

“What?” I spit.

Proteus speaks over me again. “Isn’t that a bit premature? She hasn’t been out of the arena for long.”

“We believe a swift announcement is in her best interest at this time,” the male doctor says.

“Her closing interview with Caesar Flickerman has been canceled,” the female says, totally ignoring our reactions. She may have succumb to my charms and looks before, but now she seems immune. “President Snow will make the announcement during that time slot instead.”

I don’t know what to say.

“What would you like us to do in the meantime?” Proteus asks after a moment, voice totally neutral. The crease between his eyebrows is the only sign that he’s troubled by all of this. The only sign.

I could kill him.

“She’s currently under anesthesia, but I recommend you board the train back to your district soon,” the woman continues. “Before anyone gets wind of this.”

“Why?” Eefa asks, brows creased.

“What do you mean, Why?” I ask.

“Why are you declaring her insane? What exactly is wrong with her?”

“Why do you think?” I snap. The first thing I hear her say in a week and she asks something stupid like that?

“I’d like to hear the diagnosis,” Eefa says.

The woman doctor sighs and looks down at her clip board. She knows we won’t understand any of it. “She shows symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention def –”

Proteus holds up his hand. “That’s enough.” He has no idea what any of it means, either. “Eefa?” he asks, turning to her. She nods, satisfied with what she’s heard. Maybe she was making sure they covered their bases; we generally accept that mad people are mad, but you need real proof to declare a victor mentally insane before the whole country.

“There is one piece of permanent physical damage I ought to mention,” the female doctor says. “Due to the stab wound in her abdomen, she won’t be able to conceive or carry children. There’s too much tissue damage.” No one really cares about that right now. What we care about – what I care about – is getting Annie out of here without adding to the damage that’s already been done. “I thought one of you ought to tell her once you’re back in your district and she’s had a chance to calm down.”

“I think you should get ready to leave,” the male doctor says. “She’ll be up in –” he checks his wristwatch and bobbles his head as he does the math in his head “– ninety minutes, give or take.”

“Yes,” Mags says distractedly. “Yes, of course.” She blinks several times.  “I’ll start preparing. And have Brae send for the train. Proteus, please get Annie’s stylist so we can get her ready to go.” The others go – Eefa practically sprints out – and I want to move, too, but my muscles won’t let me. Mags’s hand finds my shoulder. “She’s alive, Finnick. That’s what matters.”

I nod again because I can’t think of anything to say.

“Go. Clean up. Clear your head. I’ll be along in a few minutes. I just want to check in on her.”

When I get upstairs to our rooms, Greer rushes towards me and starts making a lot of gestures. I’m not sure what she’s asking until she runs her hand down her hair in a smooth, wavy motion. Like the way Annie’s hair falls.

“Annie?” I guess.

She nods.

I’m too tired to explain it all. “She’ll be all right.”

I start undressing before I make it all the way into my room, discarding my clothes as I go. Somes picks them up as he follows behind me.

I blast the water in the shower to its highest setting and make the temperature as cold as I can bear. I only take hot showers in the Capitol when I’ve just seen a patron. Different temperatures for different problems. It helps me compartmentalize. Keep my head straight.

I’m good at that. Compartmentalizing, keeping my mind focused on the task at hand. I always have been. A lot of victors simply can’t do that – it’s why they turn to drink or drugs. But I haven’t. And I won’t.

I don’t notice the slip of paper folded on my pillow until I start dressing. The paper is off-white and thick – the sort of expensive, heavy stuff they only use in the Capitol. I open it up, and the custom watermark at the top of the page informs me that this is from C.X.S.

President Snow has left me a handwritten note of congratulations.

The others have all gotten them, too.

Mags says he always does for the victors of the winning district. Etiquette, she says, is the most important thing to Coriolanus. Not for the first time, I wonder how well Mags knew him when they were young.

Broadsea whips a lighter out of his pocket and sets the note on fire before dropping it in an empty metal bin. He hasn’t even opened it. Eefa drops her own note into the bin; Mags gives Broadsea her letter to burn, too. I don’t know if she’s read it. Proteus tucks his away in his jacket pocket and tells me to do the same if I want to be smart. I don’t have a reason to save it; I’ve already memorized every word. But I decide to keep it anyway. In case I ever need a reminder.

Mr. Odair,

Congratulations on your very first victor. This is an exciting time for your fellow victors and all of District 4. It is an especially important time for you, as this is your first time mentoring a victor.

Of course he adds a little statement of regret at the end of my note containing a veiled threat:

I hope that you will not be bogged down by the weight of responsibility. It would be unfair for anyone to expect a young man such as  you to take on the burden of Miss Cresta’s care.

It seems innocuous enough, but it’s another little reminder to stand back and just let things unfold. Men like Finnick Odair don’t get involved with that sort of thing, and girls like Annie Cresta never really go home.

My best regards to you and your new victor,

President Coriolanus X. Snow

[matteblackstars]

Nicholas x Tentacles : For Research

as requested by @catastrophicur fantasy verse + DP / sounding / throat fuckin’ / yes he’s a virgin / no its not written well, you know what, just keep walking, don’t look here

           Nicholas scampered down the halls with the type of excitement that had nearly everyone he passed looking nervously behind. Short cleric navigated past clergy with ease, slipping between droves of prayer walks that ended in disapproving scowls and heads shaking in disappointment. Not that he noticed, because he got the aFTernOOn oFF~ For research. Which terrified everyone. 

          Due to prior mishaps in the dorms, Nicholas was given his own room well away from the rest of the populace just in case he summoned another undead bear or 30ft snake that he still couldn’t find or the time when gravity reversed itself in the mess hall or-- needless to say, when half the clerics came down with a curse that made them dance nearly to death and the other half frozen in time reliving their trauma in a void-like hellscape, he was banished asked to move his studies far far away and to notify the higher ups when he was going to be doing something potentially dismal so they could avoid it. 

          So when the final piece of his spell finally arrived in the mail, he was beside himself running through the gardens to get to the abandoned wing of the church where he had been allowed to make camp. Dreary and a bit dusty, the large heavy door requires small thing’s whole body to push against and when he finally slips through, it opens up into a massive study. Books covered the walls and laid in haphazard stacks along the floor, papers spilling with ancient languages and symbols, candles and floating colorful orbs illuminating intricate gold writings, bones, potions, skulls, vials, gems, taxidermy rabbit, a mobile of the solar system, a mobile of a different solar system -- everywhere one looked there was something new and potentially dangerous lurking about. 

          His desk held a multitude of messy papers and ink pots filled with ink that shifted colors (one that looks suspiciously like blood), and a single thick heavy book. It was the same size if not wider than the cleric himself and it takes a strained heave to lift the cover before fingers rushed to find a particular page.           There.            It only takes him minutes to shuffle about his room, moving stacks of things out of the way to clear space on the floor and hunting down the bits and pieces of spell components that involved ink, a single bit of bone, chalk, and whatever else. The item he had been waiting for came in the shape of a small crystal pendant. Some easily made magicked trinket that produced as manny mirrors as the holder desired in any shape or size. The spell had a tiny hand written note on the side that strongly suggested its use and Nicholas wasn’t entirely sure why or how this aided in the spell, but mirrors had their own magical properties that he’d mentally note to delve into. Tall and rectangular, he follows the note’s directions until the space he’s made is surrounded by them floating delicately at the perimeter with gaps enough he can slip through. He takes a moment to proudly smile at himself in the corner of one and then another few minutes to apprehensively stare at the complicated chalk circle he’s made on the floor, wondering if it was... too big. He wanted to summon tentacles, not the whole tentacle monster. Or did he??

          There was a moment of doubt after everything was set up, last thing needed was the single drop of blood and ink to circle’s center, when his own eyes catch himself in a reflection.            “Am I being too nasty for this?”           Reflection shakes its head, of course not. It’s for fun. For research!            “Getting a handy by a tentacle for... research?”           You’re testing old magic that just happens to have the use of a few wiggly arms.            “And if it doesn’t listen...?”           Reflection chants back at him for research! for research! before short human is thoroughly convinced. For research. 

          Ink and blood fall with a deafening plop to its center, sleeves of thickly layered robes pushed up as far as they can so pale palms could press into the floor at circle’s sides, feeling the magic pulsate through limbs until incantation leaves the room silent. Chalk glows warmly, then dies out. The creaking groans of the walls and wood floor halting and little thing blinks, candle light flickering making the shadows dance and for a moment -- nothing happens. “WHAT” Disappointed bark has Nicholas flopping backwards and then forwards again to peer into the spell circle, sniffing bottle of ink and blood, wondering if it was his blood needed and-- well, that would make sense. Lips purse together, but the prick to his finger and the added dot of red leaves him full of expectation and.... noth-- oh?

          Leaning close, he can see movement, like a plant breaking its way through the surface of the earth, a single blackish-red tendril wiggles its way through. Arms shoot up with an excited YES, gaze bolting about as if someone would be there to congratulate him on his small success before immediately leaning down closer with words of encouragement. Maybe it was shy? Weak? It’s ok bb, Nicholas is here~ “There there little guy, come on, coooome on~” Chuckle brightens his face, completely forgetting the whole intent of bringing this thing out, and more focused on the fact that it was tiny and absolutely adorable. It wiggles nervously, then confidently, growing in size until finally Nicholas is sitting up and staring at it face to face. It’s inky looking and curious touch tells him it’s slimy but even that’s just clear with an almost oil-slick like sheen. 

          “Oh the staff at the cleaning staff would hate this--ACK??” Something touched his face! Head snaps around and in the reflected circle of the mirror is another tentacle, breaching its way through with curious intent toward summoner. Then another- and another-- “oh. Oh no, that’s too many--” Even in the circle before him do more start pulling themselves through, shapes and sizes varying as thin ones twisted about thicker bases, others nearing with clear intent to grab and-- “OOoooohkay, nope, we’re just going to just, stop all this. Do you understand me?” It’s definitely more of a nervous plead than a command. “I’m gonna need your friends to just... go back to-” Since when was there one wrapped around his ankle? And lord they were strong--

          “Hahaha-- ok ok, time to stop guys-- no-- no, don’t grab the other ankle, nooOOOoo-- I meAN IT--” The nervous panic was starting to set in as they took hold of each ankle that ignored his petty attempts at tearing them off and instead yanked legs apart with a loud yelp. The more he struggled, the more they seemed set on restraining him with their smooth heavy limbs, and even though feet kicked in an attempt to crawl backwards, his back smacked into the front of sturdy mirror that acted more like a wall caging him inside. Oil-slick slimy tentacles reaching from the mirror took their chance to drape over shoulders and slip into his neckline causing goosebumps across his skin. W-wait-- hey-- no no nO -- but the moment arm raises in protest, strong slick limb grabs his weak wrist, knee jerk reaction had frame twist to undo it, but all it does is make his free wrist captured. With arms now bound and ankles held taught apart, there’s a pause. Nicholas’ face contorted in frustration and then ultimately defeat as next tentacle wiggled across the floor in sly expectation over pants. 

          “F-fine. Fine!” Lips pursed together and things twisted in eager acknowledgement that had Nicholas bickering with it some more. “Oh- OH, So you CAN understand, fine! Just-- nothing too weird.” A mute point when he’s so compromised and a few more inky intruders start to tug and pull at his limbs until lower half is thoroughly spread and smaller constraints touch under clothes to elbow and knee. Another thicker one presses at his cheek approvingly, hugging against his neck in jaw as if that was some form of comfort before bold member slips beneath his pant line. 

          Now short cleric was... “pure”. Physically. Hands have enthusiastically explored himself and he was no stranger to relieving himself of his sexual frustrations, but this was the first time he’d had anyone but himself touch him and it showed. Any babbling he had done just seconds before cut themselves short and heart rate rises as warm limb grazed against him, sliding over balls and taint, between cheeks to come out the other side and wedge pants down just enough until butt sat on he chill floor and growing erection exposed if upper layers weren’t messily covering him. Something about not seeing what was happening only made everything more exciting, more nerve wracking as more eased their way beneath fabric to taste and squeeze gently over sensitive skin. 

          Anticipation and tinge of embarrassment has dark haired thing squirming with a single tentacle that wrapped around the base of him, easing itself upwards and back down again with ease. Then it moves a bit faster, others curling over sack with equally comforting tug, and it doesn’t take much for cleric to start breathing heavy against the limb that still licked at his cheek or try to hide behind elbows that were being raised ever higher by captors. It’s not until the smaller ones start writhing their way over the thick boys do things get overwhelming. 

          A long thin tip searches over penis head until it finds small slit to slowly wiggle into; gentle and curious, it presses in, waiting for any protest, and then out, repeating but going deeper while it joins brothers about the shaft, squeezing and releasing in an upward pulsing motion that has his legs trembling. It feels weird, tingling, and he has little control over how hips jerk desperately for escape or the friction at his wrists as tentacles tighten their grip there and at his ankles. Panting moans verge to the point of barely muffled whining, voice pitching and cracking with every wiggle as foreign limb slowly fucked itself into him. Another slithery blackish limb slid across pale thigh staying close to the crease of his leg before wrapping underneath his clothes possessively at his waist. Heat was pooling at the pit of his stomach with legs desperate to slam together, knees trembling as boiling point started to to get near. Panicked chest rising and falling, whatever this thing was, it realized he was getting close and started to move faster, wet suction growing stronger, and all too intrusive tip no longer leaving the hole it occupied, pumping with a dangerous speed that has Nicholas crying. 

          “Out-- Take it out-- Take it outtakeitoutplease-- PLEASE!!” Toes curled as he begged, overwhelmed tears welling up in the corner of his eyes before words are too complicated to say and tentacle slips out just as it gave conclusive squeeze and burst of cum decorated his stomach and thigh. Body jolts into silence that he’s finally granted release from his torture save for the echoed whine and pathetic needy whimpers that follow. Oh gross gross gross--! Shame is the first emotion to wash over him, embarrassment the next, and a tinge of fear-- why did that make him cum so hard?? Restraints give small cleric some slack and a welcomed relief as he tries to collect himself and palms smack tiredly against the floor. Head falls back against the mirror, hand resting on his chest with the realization that he’s been freed. Peace!! Peace at last -- mind evaluates himself and curious tug pulls clothes from over himself just to see the mess he’s left and that his dick was fine. Oh thank god. This relief last if only for a moment. 

          Single inky tendril slides sneakily towards his hip, feeling the air, attempting to take small tastes of his skin that Nicholas lazily tries to shoo away. Which was apparently the Wrong Thing To Do.

          The show of weakness has the same limb thick and strong, snatch at fragile waist, yanking him downwards onto his back with a hard thud. There was no time to yelp because the moment he does, mouth is occupied. Fat and heavy, slimy member forces its way to the back of his throat, excited by impulsive need for human to swallow and tighten around it. It’s patient enough to wait for Nicholas to stop struggling, a minute before he starts to breathe through his nose and then it moves, languidly pressing in hoping to feel the velvety vibrations of fragile mortal’s moans which would come soon enough. Beast, monster, demon -- thing doesn’t bother restraining arms (not that they weren’t eagerly feeling over their hopeless attempts to escape) because its focus was too busy working complicated layers of clothes to get at the softer fleshy bits. For Nicholas, it was hard to fight back when his attention was at his mouth trying to breathe, muffled protesting shouts dying off, and tongue curling instinctively about its surprisingly warm weight. Thoughts were a buzz and buzzing faster when he feels protective clothes leave him and holy garb torn to make way to his chest. He’s not sure if he’s completely bare, it wouldn’t have mattered now that pale skin was easy to mark and already was starting to turn pink in the places where tentacles had clung and sucked onto. 

          A multitude of thicker limbs caressed over him, feeling at the highs and lows of bone and muscle, and with nippled exposed, smaller mandibles slithered their way to dance and play with them. It doesn’t take long for distressed breathing to slow, acceptance as refractory period was rushed to a close, and soft muted moan surprised even him. He liked this -- sharp flick against his chest has him pressing his legs together, messy thighs sliding against each other while he takes what’s in his mouth a tad bit deeper. If he could swear he would, wondering if it was the lack of control or the feeling of captured prey that had him creeping up on next sinful sound.

          The tentacle at his waist smoothed underneath his back, lifting it to a small arch that Nicholas readily complied with, but he nearly chokes when lower half is flipped skyward. Thing must have sensed his tension and distraction came in the form of a strong thrust into his throat, a bit faster, a bit harder, then slowing down once the hands desperately hugged at the thing eased. Hands tried to grab for something else, something easier only to messily catch hold of the multitude of other tentacles that seemed to be joining to fray, curling around his legs that now hung over him. The embarrassment he felt before? Gone. Occasionally legs twitched and kicked, only to be haphazardly restrained while mandibles inched ever so dangerously close to the place no one has been in. Not that thing cared, it was busy coiling back over his hardening shaft, squeezing at balls and -- ok the embarrassments back when he’s hard again. Mind stimulated to a degree that was near overwhelming. 

          First to make curious prod is small, winding wet and slippery between exposed spread cheeks to tease at virgin hole, testing the waters and feeling his heart rate anxiously rise until breaching inward. Whimpered cry catches in his throat and once again legs try to right themselves with struggled jerk, back and behind wiggling in protest done more out of habit than need, but thick vice around his waist tightened and its tip pressed at his lower back so he was more firmly held in place. The one at his ass slid ever deeper, rhythmically pulsing at the edge, growing ever bigger the easier it was to stretch him wider, until it was finally built up enough to be fucking into him with wave-like motion that had little thing lightly bounding against the ground. 

          He’s melting into the floor moaning with little conscious need to hold back confused pitched sounds, every synapse bursting in strange new position when suddenly he tastes air. Deep breath gives way to shuddering sigh, tongue licking at wetted lips that had odd mix of saliva and mystery coating that had the faintest taste of magic to it and bleary eyes glance upwards to see the size of what was in his mouth now hungrily fall over tentacle-caged erection and taint to--

          “NO. HnGNGgghH-- W-Wait-- No-- I-- I can’t--ah-ah-aHW-Wait--” whether thing could understand him or not, pleading fell on deaf ears and tip was already wiggling and nudging around hole that was still occupied by far smaller guest that started to move slower, a bit deeper so that thick one could more easily lick at edges, pressing experimentally until finally it gave way. Clearly excited, it wasted no time trying to push deeper, twisting sloppy and moist around partner that squirmed eagerly inside of him.

          “AhhHHHhnNNN!!” Nicholas immediately became unabashedly loud. It didn’t hurt, not in the slightest, event as fat member stretched him far beyond the limits he thought was capable, both fucked into him with opposite momentums leaving him a mewling wreck, calling for names he’d only heard in dreams. it wasn’t nearly as nice to him this time around, the multitude of tentacles wrapped about his dick squeezing just hard enough that it wouldn’t let him cum as the two continued to move faster. The fullness was tantalizingly thrilling, he’d never felt this way even with what little toys he could get and he’s gotten so noisy with every rushed pant that left his sweat stained against the floor. The closer he gets, the more it tries to restrain him; wrists against the wood by his shoulders, one even found purchase at his neck, pushing chin upward so his unbelievably lewd cries have no where to go but echo off the walls of the room. For a minute, he even catches a glimpse of himself entangled in multicolored arms that all moved with eerie fluidity into him and he knows it’s him because when he opens his mouth, it does too and-- god he looks so obscene-- but so-- good---

          Back arches with ready anticipation of what’s to come, a needy moan as one of the tentacles manages to brush against the spot that made Nicholas want to end it all and the smaller stopping its thrusting in favor of focusing meager attention on sliding against it while larger continued to pump in tandem with his breath. Teeth bite hard into his lip and he almost wished he could dig his nails into a person, but that sentiment is short lived when nipple is pinched and that familiar searing heat started to boil. He can’t hold back, he can’t -- he can’t--! It was too much! This was too much -- He can’t-- “I can’t--!!” Red flushed body burns and he’s slick with his own sweat and cum, tipping over the edge again with violent cry that shakes him to his core. Tentacles thrust hard and deep, the small bulge against his stomach visible if it weren’t for his release that fell hotly across chest and face. 

          Vision falls away and the tension he had held now released, leaves small thing empty and used. The things inside him twist and turn comfortably, lazily easing their way out while his waist is lowered back into the floor with a gentle thump. The others leave just as slow, taking their time over glistening body, licking across his neck and cheek where pearly white globs were smeared towards his mouth as they passed by before disappearing back into the floor, mirrors or... wherever they had come from. 

          So there he was left, breathless and disarray, clothes littered and torn, holy garb staring at him shamefully while he weakly sat himself up to survey the damage done. Covered in marks, ‘hickies’, bruises, sweat, oily substance, and cum, lower back tingling and feeling empty after having his insides just jumbled about; Nicholas quietly shuffled across the floor over mirrored circle to where the spell book lay, symbols and words still vivid across the page and he... tears it out. 

          He was going to keep this one for himself. For later.            For research. 

[rons-hermiones]

Come Find Me

Come Find Me

by rons-hermiones

Summary: Unplanned, Hermione is forced to spend Christmas at the Burrow due to her grandmother falling very ill. After being ignored by Hermione for weeks, Ron is determined to show her how much she means to him. Just before he gets the chance to tell her, Bellatrix Lestrange shows up with other plans for Hermione. Can Ron get to her before it's too late? (Ron/Hermione Half-Blood Prince AU)

Rating: M for language & dark themes in later chapters.

Warning: This chapter implies dark themes during Hermione’s passage, but it is very briefly mentioned and not graphic. If that bothers you please skip!

Chapter Twenty Seven

Harry’s initial shock seemed to wear by the time they were in the Transfiguration corridor. Before that, Ron had been silent, clear dead set on making it back to the tower unnoticed. 

This wouldn’t seem to be the case as the chosen one came to an abrupt stop. 

“Ron, I know where she is.” He spoke in a broken voice. 

All thoughts suddenly left his head. 

He could give a shit less if Malfoy marched up to them right now and hexed their bollocks off. If the entire Chudley Cannons team flew in and announced they’d won the World Cup, he wouldn’t even bat an eye. 

No, the only thing he could think of right now was Hermione. 

Seeing her again. Looking around a room and knowing she’s safe. Telling her all he wants to say. To hold her...

“W-what?” He chokes after a second. It’s the only coherent thing. 

“Sort of,” Harry adds in a whisper, suddenly feeling sorry for obviously getting Ron’s hopes up. “I’ll explain everything but not here. We need to find Neville and get back to the tower.” 

And if that’s what needed to be done for Ron to get some sort of bloody explanation, then you better believe that’s what he was dead set on now. 

Because of Draco's impromptu appearance at his dorm, they finished earlier than anticipated. Neville was surely still at the pitch doing all he could. Thankfully, they weren’t very far so they jogged outside for him. 

“Neville!” Harry called after spotting him in the stands, waving his arms manically. 

Neville looked shocked at their presence but tried to hide it as he clambered down the stands. 

“Harry, Ron, I thought you still had a half hour? Is everything alright?” He whispered worriedly. 

“Fine, it’s fine. Look, come on, I’ll tell you everything,” his green eyes flicked to Ron’s, “both of you, just not here.” 

Neville nodded anxiously as the three rushed hurriedly back to Gryffindor Tower. Soon enough, they reached their dorm as Ron was ready to burst in anticipation. 

“Okay Harry.” Ron said before Potter could even shut the door. 

He hurriedly ruffled through his robes and smacked the picture atop the nearest surface, someone’s trunk. 

Like before, the ginger can do nothing but stare at it in confusion. 

Neville voices as much, “I don’t understand...” 

Harry’s eyes lock with Ron’s. There’s a fire behind them, one he hasn’t seen since that day he ran after Bellatrix, vowing to avenge Sirius. 

“Do you remember Ron that night at the Burrow. That night it happened, I saw him, I saw Hermione.” He spoke rapidly. 

In response Weasley nodded, “yeah, he came twice. Once right after, once that night.” He recalled. 

“Do you remember what I said? When Mad-Eye asked who was there? What I saw?” He encouraged. 

Ron isn’t keen on the fact Harry’s trying to place guessing games rather than just blurt out an explanation, he supposes he’ll play along. “Yeah, you said it was just a big cold room.” Every detail of that night was burned into his brain and revisited often. 

The raven haired boy nodded in encouragement more than anything else, as he cocked an eyebrow. 

It was evident the chosen one was coaxing something out of him, “And...” he screwed his eyes in thoughts. Harry’s strangled voice echoing in his brain. 

“The only thing I remember was a chandelier. It was the only thing shining in the room, you couldn't miss it.”

“Blimey, a chandelier.” Ron almost laughed. So overcome with a sense of hope on the realization. 

A small smile struck Harry’s lips, “this,” he pointed to the photo, “this was the chandelier I saw.”

“So wherever the chandelier is, that’s where Hermione is, yeah?” Neville voiced, having caught on. 

Harry nodded vigorously. “That’s where I saw her.” 

The excitement that had been bubbling deep within them soon dropped, “only problem is, where is that chandelier.” The brunette Gryffindor whispered. 

At this Ron’s own hope seemed to dwindle a bit, but he wouldn’t let it stay that way for long. No, they were onto something, they had to be. 

Think Ron, think! What would Hermione do, come on...  

It came to him a minute later, “I saw that picture in The Prophet. Over the summer.” 

“Okay...” Harry said not really understanding where this was going. 

“There was an article on the lower corner of the same page. It mentioned Percy. Dad was right pissed off after he read it. He incendioed the damn paper. Said he couldn’t believe his own son was apart of such trash that he was sharing a page with the Malfoy’s.” He explained. 

“Ron?” His friend pushed again. 

“Every article, every picture, in The Prophet article cites a place, an author, a photographer. There has to be something.” 

“Mate you just said it yourself, your Dad set it on fire. Either way, I doubt your folks hoard The Prophet.” Harry reminded sounding a little defeated, but the spark was still evident. 

“You're right, they don’t,” he paused, “but the library does.” 

Neville’s face lit up like it was his Birthday, “he’s right! When we started up the D.A. last year, Hermione and I went through archives from the first war to pull pictures for the board. That’s brilliant Ron!” He exclaimed excitedly. 

They turned to Harry, gaging his reaction. Soon, a grin etched his way onto his lips, “what are we still doing here? Let’s go to the library.” 

They all began racing out. 

“Blimey, spending my night in the library. If only Hermione could see us now.” He whispered to himself. 

...

Her mind may be muddled but she isn’t stupid. Far from it. 

There’s a small crack in the cell next to hers, right on the ceiling. If she strains her ears enough she’s sometimes able to hear what they’re saying. 

“When?” She swears she hears Bellatrix ask. 

“Two nights. I need time to prepare. The Order has been around.” Voldemort hisses. 

“Of course my lord.” Hermione can visualize her bowing in compliance. 

“Until then, not a word of this to the girl, understand?” 

“Yes. Yes, of course. You have my word.” She hears Bellatrix promise. 

Hermione gulps as she hears the cracking of disapparating and stomping of boots from above. 

Painfully, she slinks back into the far corner to rest. It’s an absolute miracle she’s even conscious after everything upstairs. 

Teeth. Nails. His hands, oh god, don’t think- 

She screws her eyes in thought, pulling roughly at her shirt with her less injured hand. 

Her clothes are mangled and tattered. Practically shreds at this point. Her entire body is exposed and that alone makes chills dance along her spine. 

She doesn’t know if the blood covering the expanse of her most personal spots are a good or bad thing. Either way it makes her wretch. 

She hears footsteps come down the steps. The candle flickers on which makes her ease a bit. It only does that when Natali- no, Narcissa, comes down stairs. 

She takes a moment to berate herself. Maybe she’s not as smart as she once thought. 

Stupid, stupid mind, you’re supposed to be brilliant! She scolds, the voice in her head almost sounds like Bellatrix. 

She’s broken from her thoughts as a large clinging of metal practically makes her jump out of her skin. 

Hermione looks up to see the woman with a hand over her mouth, eyes wide in fear. 

Carefully Hermione surveys the room, trying to find what has her in such a state. 

She soon realizes it’s her. This causes her to self consciously throw her arm over her breasts. 

“Oh child, what did they do to you?” She cries out, dropping to her knees. 

The brunette cowers a little at her words, silent tears streak her cheeks. 

Like last night, she can tell Hermione needs comfort now more than ever, as Narcissa thoughtlessly throws open the bars and drops to her knees. 

Welcoming the soothing touch as opposed to the burning she gets when Greyback or anyone else touches her, she falls onto the woman’s shoulder. 

They sit like this for a while. Narcissa strokes her matted, disgusting hair, soothing her. 

It isn’t until Hermione calms down that she realizes Missus Malfoy has thrown her cloak around her frame. 

“They’re planning something. I don’t know what.” Narcissa tells her in an honest whisper, “it won’t be good for you.” She says next. 

And the words should really evoke some terrible fear deep within her, but they don’t. She’s just numb to the pain at this point. 

“Was it worth it?” She pulls away to look at Hermione’s dull, almost lifeless eyes, “was what you did today worth all this?” Narcissa has to know. She’s not patronizing her, she’s just trying to understand. 

Momentarily she can see a spark in the young witch's eyes as she nods. 

“W-worth e-everything.” She stutters out, having trust that Harry was doing something. Anything. 

All the days she’s spent here she’s felt useless. Like some damsel in distress waiting for her prince to come get her out, but today was different. Today she felt like she controlled her own fate, if even a small portion. 

The consequences were dreadful, unbearable, but in that moment when she called for Harry, she felt like herself again. If only for a second. 

She hasn’t felt that way in weeks. 

Narcissa nodded at her words and then returned to hugging her small frame. 

Neither knew that what Hermione did today would cost her nearly everything.

…

Madam Pince gave them no trouble when they requested the archives. Ron imagines it’s pretty empty here considering it’s most common occupant has been away. 

The book is an enchanted one. You tell it a date or just a general period time and it’ll open to the exact copy from the requested time. 

Harry currently had it in front of him at the table. 

“What do we say?” He asked, eyeing it curiously. 

Ron thinks, “well, the article was over the summer. It was after school, but before Hermione arrived. So I reckon it was between a two week period.” He thinks aloud before deciding, “The Daily Prophet, June Twenty-Seventh 1996.” He told it. 

Suddenly it’s pages fluttered to life, lightly ruffling the boys’ hair as it flicked hurriedly. It stopped after a few moments with a large headline labeled, ‘Dumbledore due to Retire after Ministry Break-In!’

“Rubbish.” Neville mumbled reading it. 

Knowing this wasn’t it, he told the book to keep flipping. 

Most of the headlines were shite. All boasting about how wonderful the ministry is, how awful  Hogwarts is, even mentions of Harry. 

‘The Boy Who Lies, Again!’ The title for June thirtieth read with a picture of Harry from the Ministry. 

Upon seeing that, Ron only hurried his calls to the book. 

“Next day!” Nope. “Next Day!” Another page down. 

Just as he prepared to call for it to move on, Neville yelled out, “stop!” 

His blue eyes peeled from Harry and to the book. In front of them sat the picture of the Malfoy’s, above it read ‘Malfoy Mentality’ in thick capital letters. 

For good measure Harry shakily held up the photo from the dorm next to it. 

A complete match. 

Wordlessly, the three moved closer and anxiously began to read the contents of the article. 

It was a load of rubbish. Just going on and on about how the Malfoy’s manage to remain so respectable during these times (their words not his). A few quotes from Narcissa and Lucius Malfoy were also sprinkled about. 

Ron can’t say he was shocked when the whole article was written by one Rita Skeeter. Even more maddening, not once did they talk about wherever the hell that picture was. 

Next, he flashed his eyes to the photo in question, squinting to make out the small font underneath it. 

Photographed by-

“Balthasar Bartolo Brimblehawk!” Neville yells out, causing someone to shush him from nearby. 

He flushes red and drops into a whisper, “Brimblehawk, I know him.” He tells them. 

“You do?” Harry asked, astonished at their luck. It’s almost as if they raised Slughorn’s stash of Felix Felicis prior to coming here. 

He nods a little madly, “he was a big deal way back then, with The Order and all. Those pictures, the ones we had from the D.A. I reckon he took all of those.” 

“Then why the hell is he now taking pictures of the Malfoy’s?” Ron asks before he can help it. 

Neville goes on, “he took my parents wedding photos, my Gran’s too. He even took some photos of me when I was little, my Gran owl’s him from time to time. Last Easter she was having tea with Mrs.Criswell and I heard them talking. I mean normally it’s just gossip mind you, you know about other women or-“

“Neville.” Ron says gently, trying to steer him on track.  

“Right. Sorry.” He says, “anyway, I zoned in because they mentioned You-Know-Who. When The Prophet had their little, uh, change, they wanted only the best. Brimblehawk is the best photographer for this type of thing I reckon, war times and all.” 

“But?” Harry interjected knowing it was coming. 

Sadly, Neville nodded, “but, apparently he refused to be a part of it. Next day his shop was broken into, ransacked. They never said who it was, of course one can only assume...” he trailed, “scared for him and his grandkids, he agreed to do work for them. Reckon he didn’t have much of a choice.” 

“Bugger.” Ron mumbled. He wasn’t naive, he knew how wars worked. His Mum lost her brothers to the last one, but it didn’t make the fact innocent people. People like Brimblehawk, like Hermione, were paying the prince. 

“Last I heard he stills develops photos from time to time down at his shop, he lives above it. Heard he takes less pictures now because of everything, plus he’s rather old, probably around Dumbledore’s age now.” Neville finished with a shrug. 

“And could you get in contact with him? Your Gran maybe?” Harry questioned anxiously. 

He sighed and shook his head, “If I sent an owl he’d surely be confused, tell me Gran and all. Then my Gran would demand answers, well, you know how that goes. I don’t wanna ruin this whole thing, it’s a bit of a secret.” 

“Yeah a bit.” Ron scoffed sarcastically. 

The dark haired boy monetarily glared at his friend, “okay, so that’s out of question, I think face to face interaction would be best. Where’d you say his shop was?” He asked. 

Neville looked a little defeated, “I didn’t. It’s in Diagon Alley.” 

“Diagon Alley! The next time we’ll be allowed over there is Easter holidays. I can’t wait that long!” Ron exclaimed in a harsh whisper. 

“I know, shite.” Harry mumbled, nibbling nervously on his finger nails. 

“Maybe someone else could? I mean, you guys said McGonagall and Dumbledore-“ the brunette started. 

“No.” Harry dismissed, “they’d ask too many questions. If too many people knew, word could get back to whoever has her. They could move her. We need someone who understands how important this is. Someone who knows Hermione as more than the Brightest Witch of our Age.” 

“Who?” Neville asks after a moment, thinking the chosen one was onto something. 

Harry didn’t speak, but Ron did. 

“Fred and George.”

[jenniferxprentiss]

You Are In Love

Chapter Three: And at Every Table, I’ll Save You A Seat

read it on ao3 here, listen to the song here

Hi! Okay! Chapter 3 is finally done and we’ve got Will dealt with....or do we? We’ll see in upcoming chapters - but they can’t stay in domestic bliss for too long! Idk, I suck at describing chapters.

Throwing the tag list here, lemme know if I forgot you! @garcias-batcave @f-m27 @whiskey-fluent @jjsgirlfriend @criminalmindsgonewrong @heat-waveee @davidrossi-ismydad @good-heavens-chris-evans @abbyprentiss @higuysimbroken @dont-trustyourfeelings

And without further ado, here’s the chapter! As always, I would really appreciate reviews if you feel so inclined, but if you don’t, that’s cool too! Thank you for reading!

For once, the shrill sound of the alarm on the bedside table woke Emily before the sunlight did, usually up hours before her alarm was due to go off. She was comfortable, eyes bleary as she slapped the alarm clock. It had been so long since she was able to sleep in - she blamed it on the crying the night before and not the warm body barnacled to her chest.

Warm body barnacled to her chest - oh, shit.

Emily’s face was buried in JJ’s hair, arms still tightly wound around her as JJ was sprawled out over her. Her face was pinched, like she was trying not to wake up, the alarm clock having clearly woken them both from a restful sleep.

“Ugh, what time is it?” JJ mumbled, lips against Emily’s collarbone.

A blush crept up on Emily’s face, heating up her cheeks and chest. She tried to hide it in a cough, rubbing at her face. JJ’s face was so soft, so open, her blue eyes practically sparkling in the morning light.

“Uh, about nine? I haven’t really ever slept long enough for my alarm to sound.”

“Because your bed is lonely and cold.”

Emily laughed, strained and half hearted because it was true, she just wouldn’t admit it. She kicked the covers off of them, nearly pulling them back up at JJ’s sad, soft pout.

“Oh come on, you know we need to get into the office today. Up with you, go.”

Emily playfully shoved JJ off of her, propping herself up on her elbows as she watched JJ walk to the door and stop, leaning on the doorframe again. Seriously, what was it with that woman and leaning in doorways.

“My stuff’s still down the hall, yeah?”

She nodded, unable to speak. Her eyes were trained on JJ, the way the sweater hung down just low enough that Emily could barely make out the sleep shorts under it. Her hair was tousled, eyes shining brightly as she looked over at Emily with a goofy grin. Emily tried to ignore the flush creeping up on her cheeks, the way her heart was pounding at just the sight of JJ - and god, in that moment she hated Will Laryngitis even more for ever making JJ feel inadequate.

“You okay?”

“Yeah!” Emily rushed out, ignoring her heart pounding in her chest. “Yeah, I’m good. Your stuff is still in the bathroom, yeah - why don’t you get washed up while I grab you some clean clothes and start on breakfast?”

“Yeah.” JJ smiled, pushing off of the doorframe and walking backwards for a few paces. “Thanks for cuddling me.”

“Thanks for uh, being so cuddly?”

“Okay, I’m going now.”

The light lilt of JJ’s laugh got quieter as she retreated down the hall, hair bouncing as she half skipped away. Emily’s heart was still racing - she blamed it on the sheer fact that she hadn’t had company in her bed in quite some time, and not who the company had been.

She busied herself with finding them clothes to wear to work - selecting a blue dress she rarely wore for JJ, paired with a blazer, not wanting anyone to ask any questions as to why JJ was wearing her clothing. The thought of JJ in her clothes made her smirk - they were best friends, she’s certainly wore her fair share of JJ’s clothing after waking up on her couch, passed out after a long night of drinking.

Walking down the hall, the faint sound of water and JJ’s humming brought a smile to Emily’s face. She stood outside the bathroom door, the small pile of clothing in her hand as she just listened, the soft murmur of her voice nearly drowned out by the running water.

She was broken from her thoughts when JJ let out a small cough, nearly dropping the small pile in her hands. Emily let out a shaky laugh at her own antics before laying the pile on the floor outside the door, knocking gently so not to startle JJ.

“Hey, I’m leaving you some clothes out here. Feel free to go use my bathroom if you need to use my makeup or anything.”

“Thanks, Em.”

Emily sauntered down the hall, smile so bright her cheeks were burning. She could hear the shy smile in JJ’s words, knowing exactly what her face looked like in that moment.

In a feeble attempt to distract herself from thinking of JJ in the shower, singing and fully of shy smiles, she started the coffee machine up and got to work on their breakfast. She wrapped her favorite apron around her waist, tying it before she set about measuring out the ingredients for their pancakes.

Emily danced around the kitchen, humming to the song on the radio - a Taylor Swift song she absolutely loved but wouldn’t tell anyone about, just knowing the team would have a field day with her if they knew. She twirled around, apron and nightgown lending to the domestic fantasy she allowed herself to think about only in the most private moments, while she was cooking or cleaning and singing along to the radio.

My heart's been borrowed and yours has been blue.

All's well that ends well to end up with you.

Swear to be overdramatic and true to my lover.

And you'll save all your dirtiest jokes for me.

And at every table, I'll save you a seat, lover.

There was a rustling in the doorway of the kitchen, Emily turning around and locking eyes with JJ, a crimson flush burning on her cheeks. She nearly dropped her spatula, eyes raking over JJ’s body.

She looked absolutely gorgeous in that dress, the blue making her eyes shine impossibly brighter. Her lips were curved up in the ghost of a small smile, eyes warm and inviting. Emily felt her heart clench - blamed it on hormones the way it made her ache to see JJ in her clothing - before letting out a shaky laugh.

“You weren’t supposed to see that.”

JJ seated herself on a stool at the breakfast bar, elbows resting on the countertop and face propped up by her hand. Her smile was wide, eyes sparkling as she stared at Emily. She didn’t say a word, just watching her and nodding slightly, encouraging her to continue.

The last bars of the song faded away and Emily turned the radio down a few notches, plating the last pancakes and sliding the stack in front of JJ. She was trying her best to contain her blush and her embarrassment, face still flushed and chewing on her bottom lip.

“Stop.” JJ‘s voice was soft, just a hint of playfulness behind it. “I like seeing this side of you.”

“I’m going to ignore the fact that you said that and pour our coffee now.”

Emily was laughing at herself, pouring two mugs of coffee from the carafe and mixing them the way they both liked - lots of sugar and a little bit of creamer, enough to make the rest of the team laugh at them while they linked pinkies and smiled goofily at each other. The thought brought a dumb smirk to Emily’s face, sliding the mug across the bar to JJ and sitting beside her.

“You don’t have to make me breakfast.”

“I know. I wanted to, is that a crime?”

“Yes. You’re an unsub now.”

They both laughed, hysterical peals of laughter as they dig into their breakfast, forks bumping and clanging together on the same plate.

————————

It had been a long day, and JJ was a little more than excited to get home and kick up her feet, absolutely nothing to do. She pulled into her driveway, stifling a yawn - it had been a long day of paperwork and local cases, and she honestly couldn’t wait to get back in the air and off to another big case.

Her stomach flopped at the thought of having to talk to Will after their non-fight last night. Before she crawled into bed with Emily, she had sent him a text - if he couldn’t accept that she didn’t want an abortion, she was leaving. It made her chuckle, a small breathy laugh under her breath, that she worked for the FBI and stared death in the face on a regular basis, but talking to her boyfriend made her nauseous at times.

JJ took the front steps two at a time, digging her keys out of her purse and pressing the key into the lock. It didn’t even jiggle. She frowned, eyes narrowing as she really looked at the lock, letting out a hissed curse.

Fucking Will.

He had changed the locks at some point between their conversation and now. She wanted to cry, running her hand through her hair, loose and messy, before she noticed a note under the mat.

JJ,

I hate to do this, but there’s really no choice. I can’t force you to get an abortion, and you can’t force me to stay with you. Your clothing is in the garage, we can arrange for you to pick up the rest of your belongings later. Let me know if you reconsider.

All the best,

Will.

Hot, angry tears dripped down her face, fingers clutching at the paper so hard it wrinkled. She tried to exhale, breath shaking as she withdrew her keys from the door and walked down the steps, head down as she tried her best not to cry.

She pulled out her phone, dialing the first number that came to mind - Emily. Of all people, of all of her friends, she knew Emily would judge her the least. She picked up on the second ring, quietly, listening to JJ’s ragged breathing laced with wet tears.

“Jayje? Is everything okay?”

“No…” She let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding, choking back a sob. “I need you. I don’t know what to do. Will changed the fucking locks.”

“He did what?!” Emily paused, and JJ could make out the faint jingle of her keys. “Stay right there, don’t move. I’m coming, I’m on my way. Fifteen minutes, Jayje. Will you be okay for fifteen minutes?”

She nodded, letting out a watery laugh at the fact that Emily couldn’t see her. There was a mechanical noise, then the sound of Emily’s car starting and the engine revving.

“Yeah, I’ll be okay. I’m going to… he left my clothes in the garage. He said uh, he said I can get the rest of my things another time.”

Emily made a soft hum, and JJ knew she was speeding and trying to concentrate. She opened the garage, choking back another sob at the sight of her clothing thrown into garbage bags, sitting in the middle of the garage.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do, Emily.”

“What the fuck do you mean? You don’t know what you’re going to do? You’re staying with me and that’s final. You don’t impose on anything, you’re my best fucking friend.” Emily let out a long sigh, and JJ could hear her manicured fingernails tapping on the steering wheel anxiously. “Tell me you’ll at least consider it?”

“Yeah, Em. I’ll consider it.”

The call immediately dropped as Emily’s car screeched to a stop in front of the house. She jumped out, leaving the door open and lights on, running over to JJ and wrapping her arms around her.

Only then did JJ allow herself to break down, in Emily’s arms for the third time in two days. She sobbed brokenly into Emily’s shoulder, hands coming up to clutch at her back as sobs wracked her body.

“Oh, Jayje.” Emily whispered, arms tightening around her. “It’s alright, it’s going to be okay. We’ll figure it out.”

“It doesn’t feel okay.” JJ sniffled, pulling back from Emily’s embrace, hand motioning to the garage. “It looks like he packed most of my stuff but uh, I need to come back for the rest that’s inside. I don’t know what to do, where to put it all.”

“We’ll put in my house, I have next to no furniture anyways. I want you to feel at home, however long you stay.” Emily tossed a bag into the back of JJ’s car before walking to get more. “Just so you know, I wouldn’t object to you staying permanently.”

JJ shook her head, a small smile ghosting over her lips. Emily always knew how to make things infinitely better, bringing a smile to her face in the darkest times - whether that be through heartbreak, or after getting beaten up by an unsub.

“I don’t want to impose, really, but I appreciate it.”

“You aren’t imposing if I offer.” Emily pointed out, eyebrow raised as she continued to load bags into JJ’s car.

Her car was still sitting in the street abandoned, lights on and door still flung open. The sight made JJ’s heart clench, the amount that Emily cared for her touching her soul. She watched on as Emily finished loading the cars, stopping to swiftly kick the bumper of Will’s car, both women breaking out into hysterical giggles.

When they calmed down what felt like hours later, JJ doubled over with laughter, they both straightened up and walked towards their cars. JJ closed her trunk, offering Emily a shy smile, hands stuffed in her pockets before she spoke.

“Then if it’s not imposing, let’s go home.”

“Yeah, Jayje, let’s go home.”

Emily had to turn away before JJ saw the ridiculously wide smile she couldn’t stifle away, and despite the situation, JJ wore a matching smile too.

[cycat4077]

Sleeping Arrangements

Part 3 in the Changes verse, though it’s not necessary to read the other parts beforehand. (Part 1 | Part 2) AO3 here (Takes place Christmas 2015, right after 17x10 “Catfishing Teacher”)

Pairing: Sonny x Reader  Warnings: none (hopefully just some wholesome fluff) Words: 1858 Summary: Prior to this trip, sleeping arrangements weren't something you'd given much thought. You had been too preoccupied with pre-holiday grading, remembering the presents and packing the bags. But now, the situation poses a bit of a conundrum: one new family member and no extra beds. 

"So, my mom is a lot like yours. She'll probably smother you in love and food," you warn as the wintery highway passes by. 

"I don't mind that," answers Sonny from the driver's seat. Snowflakes collect and melt on the windshield, dispersing the morning light that shines through them. It's Christmas day and the two of you left NYC early to be able to make it upstate in due time.

"My dad on the other hand," you continue, "may look intimidating, but he's actually a big softy. Cries at chick-flicks all the time. Just don't tell him I told you that!" Sonny lets out a warm chuckle. "Noted!" Ever since you spent Thanksgiving with the Carisis, you've been excited to bring Sonny home to meet your parents. Not only that, but he also just finished a really tough case, so you hope that getting away from work and having a hardy family meal would do him good. "You're not nervous, are you?" you ask hesitantly, recalling how anxious you had been on the drive to Staten Island. "I mean, yeah, but not really. If your folks are anything like you, then I'm guaranteed to be just fine." Sonny smiles reassuringly before shifting his eyes back to the snowy roads. -x- "MY BABY!" exclaims your mother as you kick off your boots and step inside the house. You fold your arms around each other and hug. It has been too long since you’ve seen one another in person. "And you must be Sonny," she adds, waving over your boyfriend. "It's a pleasure, Mrs. -" but before Sonny has a chance to finish, your mom wraps her arms around him. A low oof escapes his mouth as she squeezes. Yep, Sonny has officially been adopted into the family. "I've heard so much about you, so it's wonderful to finally meet you!" Your mother is absolutely bursting with joy. "Likewise," replies Sonny, flashing one of his infamous smiles. In the meantime, you give your dad a giant hug, glad to see him too. Then it’s time for introductions. At first your father seems to be sizing up your boyfriend, hardened eyes scanning him over skeptically. Sonny extends his hand, offering a polite "Nice to meet you, sir" but your father hesitates. C’mon dad, you think, flashing him a stern look. Thankfully he accepts Sonny's gesture with a firm handshake. "My daughter goes on and on about you and how happy she is," he declares and finally allows a smile. A breath you didn’t realise you’d been holding in escapes, puffing out your cheeks. Always attentive, Sonny senses your unease and casts you a loving look, stepping over to slip you under his arm. After presents and overnight bags are unpacked from the car, the four of you sit down for an early supper. The dining room table is overrun by casserole dishes filled with turkey, dressing, gravy, mashed potatoes and baked carrots; everything that traditionally composes a holiday meal in your household. Once bellies are plump and full, you all sit around the Christmas tree. Growing up, family Christmas trees were always real spruce and were adorned with old ornaments that had sentimental rather than aesthetic value. And like all Christmases before, this year’s tree gives the living room a wonderful smell, while shiny bulbs twinkle from the colored lights that hang on its branches. With everyone gathered together, you swap presents. You had debated endlessly with yourself over what to get Sonny. The two of you were only together for about two months. Was that too soon to be buying expensive or sentimental gifts? Or, since we’re so committed to one another, would it be expected? Instead, you listened to your gut and bought something that you sincerely hoped would make Sonny smile. "What is it, doll?" asks Sonny while tearing at the wrapping paper. The man has the patience of a five-year old. You don't answer, but rather just watch while he takes the gift out of the box. "It's a…" Sonny's face softens and he runs his fingers over the material, "a briefcase." "For when you get that degree and become a lawyer," you elaborate timidly. The item set you back a pretty penny but it was crafted from soft, brown leather and resembled the old style of briefcases from the 50's. You wished that this gift would show Sonny just how much you believe in him. At first he's silent. He simply looks at you with an unreadable expression. He doesn't like it. It's too soon for a gift like this. But then Sonny unleashes a smile so wide that his eyes crinkle at the corners. Your tummy somersaults. "I love it!" Sonny leans over and pulls you into an embrace. You flush with warmth and nuzzle your nose into the soft juncture of his neck. In fact, you're so caught up in the moment that you forget your parents are sitting one sofa over until a quiet 'aww' resonates from your mother. You pull apart to see a pair of baby blues shining with appreciation. Sonny then gets up, sock feet padding towards his coat by the door. He reaches into the pocket, pulls something out and quickly returns to his place beside you. He extends his arm, presenting a small box with intricate wrapping. Your breath catches in your throat. It's jewelry. Sonny studies you with nervous excitement, coaxing you to open it. When you do, the velvety box reveals a silver pendant on a matching chain. You touch the cool metal delicately with your finger, tracing the outline of an apple. "Yourra teacher," Sonny remarks, his tone turning somewhat shy. "And when you like a teacher, you're supposed ta give 'em an apple." You feel tears forming in your eyes as his sentiments soak in. "It's beautiful, Sonny." And you mean those words from the bottom of your heart. It's perfect. He's perfect. You ask him for help to put it on, moving your hair out of the way. His fingertips tenderly graze along the back of your neck, sending goosebumps across your skin. When the clasp is secured, you release your hair and gently adjust the pendant to the middle of your chest. It means so much and you vow to wear it everyday. The gift exchange continues a little while longer; your parents even make sure that Sonny has presents under the tree from them. Your mother all the while brings out various baked deserts, continually offering Sonny more food even though his response never wavers from a lighthearted "I'm stuffed". There's laughter and stories to go around as afternoon shifts into evening. You share your experiences with Sonny from the past summer and your parents recite snippets from your childhood. Of course, they also provide Sonny with a teasing warning about how nerdy you can be, making you cringe out of embarrassment. Sonny, like the gentleman he is, laughs them all off and reveals a few of his own quirks to even the score. As the night winds down and eyelids grow heavy, there's a collective decision to turn in. Prior to this trip, sleeping arrangements weren't something you'd given much thought. You had been too preoccupied with pre-holiday grading, remembering the presents and packing the bags. But now, the situation poses a bit of a conundrum: one new family member and no extra beds. Right away Sonny offers to sleep on the couch. Being that your relationship is still quite new, the two of you have never done the whole sleeping over thing yet. Though uncharted territory, it seems unfair to make Sonny sleep on a lumpy sofa when he'd be driving home the next day. "No, it's okay," you announce, eyes darting between your parents and Sonny. "You can share my bed." Your father opens his mouth to protest, but your mother swiftly hits his arm to shut him up. Instead, she hands Sonny the extra pillows in her arms. "You sure, doll?" Sonny questions, blue eyes seeking yours for confirmation. "Yeah, we've got a long drive back tomorrow. Need a good night's rest." You smile and rest your hand on his shoulder, giving it a light squeeze. Sonny would never get fresh with you unless you both were ready. Besides, it would be nice to finally make the dream of falling asleep in his arms a reality… "Goodnight then, you two," your mother coos. "If you need anything let us know." You give both parents a hug before retreating into your childhood bedroom. "I'd never try anything. You know that, right?" Sonny blurts as he helps turn down the sheets. You stop and look at him. "Of course I know that," you reassure. "I trust you and in no way feel pressured. Hope you feel the same." "I do! I was justa little surprised that you'd offer to share a bed, especially under your folks' roof." He fluffs the pillow and strips off his shirt.

You can't help but stare at his bare chest. That's another first and boy, is it a good one. Sonny's not the type who has rippling muscles or bulging pecs. Instead, he's lean and toned in just the right places, which, if you're being honest, is way sexier. Sonny then pulls a different tee over his head, dragging you back to reality. "My parents have always trusted me," you resume. "All my decisions are my own and they'd never judge me for sharing a bed with my boyfriend. That's the kind of relationship we've always had." "It's nice," Sonny says simply before crawling under the covers. "My parents weren't quite so trusting." He shrugs. "...But then again we were a strict Catholic household." He pats the mattress beside him and you slip in. "Oohh! Your feet are like ice!" he trills. You quickly pull your toes away. "Sorry." "Nuh-no, doll! Lemme warm 'em up," Sonny grins and reaches for your feet with his own. His warmth provides immediate relief. "That better?" he asks. "Much," you reply. "Good." He switches off the bedside lamp and snuggles down under the blankets. "'Night." "'Night," you say. A silence hangs in the darkness for a few moments. "Sonny?" you whisper. "Yeah?" "Would you...uh...Would you...Do you wanna..." you stutter out, but it seems he already understands. An arm snakes around your shoulders pulling you near. "That okay?" he asks. But rather than answer, you turn your face towards him and place a kiss to his lips. It's warm and soft and tender; unspoken gratitude for the wonderful day you've spent with him. Sonny, responds by kissing you back with a soft hum of pleasure. "I'll take that as a ‘yes’," he smirks against your lips. "Merry Christmas, Sonny." "Merry Christmas," he kisses your forehead and you cuddle into his chest. His arms hold you close as you both fall asleep. You had always dreamed of how it would feel to be nestled up with Sonny like this, and though you never expected the first cuddle to be in your childhood bed, it was still better than you could have ever imagined. It felt right. Sonny felt like home.

---

I SHALL WRITE ABOUT ALL THE HOLIDAYS! (feeback loved and thanks for making it to the end ♥ )

Part 4 here

[kaleidescope-writes]

Heart of Audrilluria- Chapter XVII; Bitter Reality

Modern Fairytale AU

Prince King!Tom Hiddleston x Thief! Reader

  The jet’s door opened welcoming both sisters back to the solemn reality they’d always known. Stepping out, they made their way to the car waiting for them on the other side of the landing platform of the private airport. As they walked side-by-side with their luggage in their hands, Y/N looked over to Amelie. “So we’re back,” she uttered weakly. Amelie gave her a cold glare, briefly before turning back to the car in front of them. “I refuse to speak to you until our little problem is fixed,” Amelie replied bitterly. They continued to walk in silence, nearing their ride with every step. As soon as they reached the car, Y/N opened the door to the back seat, allowing Amelie to enter first. The driver took their luggage and put it in the trunk. Once inside, the car started and their drive began. It wasn’t the limo they were used to, but they had to accept the fact that they were no longer in Audrilluria. After yesterday, it became a distant memory.

They rode in silence for about five minutes before Y/N turned to Amelie, “We have to talk about this eventually.” Amelie sighed, looking away from the window and glaring at Y/N. “What do you want to talk about? The fact that you decided to steal the replica? Or that you broke the necklace and left the jewel? Or maybe you want to talk about the fact that we now have to pay someone $10,000 to replace something you had in your grasp but decided to leave behind because you couldn’t do that to the love of your life. Which do you want to talk about, dearest sister?” she spat. 

“Ok look,” Y/N started, “it wasn’t my fault the replica broke as I was putting it in the carrier bag. I’m not responsible for making a weak bracket that caused the gem to fall out.” Amelie’s eyes widened in a hateful surprise. “And what about the rest?” she almost yelled, “What about you getting attached? Was that not your fault too?” 

“Yes!” Y/N cried out, loud enough to make the driver flinch slightly. “That is my fault. Because for a moment, a small blissful moment, I thought I could be more than that poor orphan that was forced to steal from people for a slice of bread everyday. For once, I thought that I could just be normal and experience normal things.” 

Amelie sighed heavily. She shook her head and turned to look at the window. “I don't want to do this now. Let’s just get to Andrew’s and get this over with.” Y/N let her head drop, giving up. They continued their ride in complete silence, each sister having their own drowning thoughts that made the silence tense. 

Their ten minute drive finally came to an end, reaching their handler’s place. The car came to  a complete stop and both sisters got out. “We’ll be in there for a few minutes. Keep the engine running,” Y/N said to the driver before making her way to the door, Amelie following close behind. Opening the door and stepping in, Y/N made her way to the furthest display case in the jewelry store. Amelie rang the bell and they waited for Andrew. 

“Sorry, we’re closed today due to a family emergency,” Andrew hollered from the backroom on the other side of the display case. “This is a family emergency,” Y/N replied. They heard shuffling before Andrew appeared in the doorway of the backroom. “Well, well, well,” he began, “If it isn’t the infamous L/N sisters. Where’s the heart?” “It’s nice to see you too,” Amelie spoke in a sarcastic tone, “And the heart is in  Audrilluria. What we have is the incomplete replica.” 

Y/N put the bag she’d been carrying on the display case. She opened it, revealing the well kept replica that was missing the blue heart. Even without its center jewel, it was beautiful. Andrew marveled in its beauty before picking it up to examine the missing piece. He looked at every detail carefully, taking in the craftsmanship and already forming ideas in his head. After a moment, he spoke “The jewels are sapphire replicas and the chain is steel painted to look like gold. The brackets are a bit weak, which is what caused one to break so easily. All in all, the necklace was made to be displayed, not worn. I can fix this within 24 hours and it will look good as new.”

“I knew  you could get this done,” Y/N praised, “We’ll see you tomorrow with the $10,000 ready.” Both sisters turned to leave, walking the same path they took to meet with Andrew. Exiting the shop, they made their way back to the car and got in. "I really hope this works," Amelie commented as they drove off, "Otherwise Vie will kill us both."

“They’re here!”

Y/N and Amelie got out of the car only to be attacked by a swarm of seven children hugging their legs, pulling their arms, and jumping up and down excited for their return. “Hey guys!” Amelie smiled as the driver took their luggage out of the trunk. “We missed you so much!” a brown haired, green eyed boy exclaimed. All of the children that surrounded them were between the ages of five and twelve. They were the kids that weren’t lucky enough to end up in an actual orphanage. Y/N and Amelie were the oldest. This was home.

“Mother Vie is waiting for you,” said a small voice coming from six year-old Michael. “We’ll go in a moment, Mikey,” Y/N said softly, internally dreading the moment they have to face that wretched witch. Their luggage was handed to them, but quickly taken away by the older children as they insisted they could take it. Hesitantly, they made their way through the dry leaves covering the floor and approached the old house that seemed to be falling apart a little more each day. One of the columns holding up the roof of the porch was almost completely leaning out of place. The majority of the windows were either broken or replaced with a wooden plank. It looked as if no one was living there. No one should be living there. Especially not children. 

They made their way up to the stair-less porch and climbed up an old, wooden box they’d use to get inside. The box itself was almost as worn as the house. They walked up to the door and Amelie knocked as hard as she could. Y/N stood next to her, waiting for Mother Vie to open the door for them. She looked up at the hole in the ceiling. She could see what was once the house’s balcony. The Balcony. She shook her head, not wanting to return to her grieving state. 

The door swung open, revealing an older woman dressed in clothes that looked maybe a few days old. “My girls!” She exclaimed, opening her arms seemingly to hug them. “Mother Vie,” they both responded bitterly. Vie stepped aside to let them in, still keeping that bright smile that had mysteriously appeared on her face when she saw them. They walked through the old, worn out house with broken furniture that barely stood and uncleaned floors and walls. 

Hell. They’d returned to hell.

“How was Audrilluria?” she asked, stopping in front of a seemingly newly purchased recliner and sitting down. “It was an experience,” Amelie said in the same tone as before. Vie shook her head, still keeping the unsettling smile from earlier, “I’m sure the entire time you were gone, you were missing home!” Home. Is that what this is?

The sisters just smiled forcibly. They didn’t want to be here again. Especially not with her. She was the one that picked them up from off the streets and took every opportunity she had to remind them about it. She was the one that forced them to become thieves. She was the reason behind years of hell and torture. 

“May we get to our room?” Y/N asked after a moment, “It was a long flight and we’re both exhausted.” Vie laughed, “Of course! We’ll talk about the pay at dinner. Tonight, everyone eats. Only to celebrate your success!” Both sisters gave her a false grateful smile before almost rushing to their room. The children were already waiting for them inside with their luggage. 

The room was small enough to be considered a small closet. For furniture, there were only two twin beds, two dressers, and a single broken mirror. Nothing  compared to their suite in Audrilluria. 

“Tell us about the fairytale kingdom!” Mikey exclaimed, sitting on the floor with his legs crossed. The other children began to chant in agreement. “Ok, ok,” Amelie gave in, making them quiet down. “I won’t tell you all the adult stuff,” she began, giving a smirk in Y/N’s direction, “But I will tell you that Y/N fell in love with her charming prince.” The younger children began to squeal while the older children looked in a mix of disgust and awe. Y/N turned to give Amelie a look of sadness mixed with surprise. “Can you tell us about it?” Mikey asked eagerly. “No,” Y/N dismissed softly, “I can’t talk about that.” Amelie smiled to her, “Oh come on Y/N. Please!” The children followed her lead and soon, she gave in. 

“Ok, fine,” she said, sitting on the bed next to her suitcase. “His name is Thomas. He’s the nicest, most lovable person I’d ever met,” Y/N recounted, “He is well spoken and sweet and I fell for him so fast.” The children listened eagerly from their places on the floor. “How well spoken is he?” one of the older children, Daya, asked eagerly. “Well,” Y/N thought for a moment, “I have a note he sent me in my bag.” Suddenly, they began to chant for her to read the note. Y/N rolled her eyes, reaching into her bag and taking out the note. She began to read;  “Dearest Y/N, I hope you can accompany me to the gardens this afternoon to continue to establish our friendship. I didn’t see much of you yesterday and would like to make it up today. Please meet me in the Gardens. In the same place I showed you the first time.”

The room resonated with “aw’s” coming from everyone, even Amelie. “How did you meet him?” ten year old Allie asked. “Well,” Y/N began, a tear slowly forming in her eye as she remembered everything that happened. “When we arrived at the castle, he and his family were waiting for us.”---

~~~~~~~~~~

“Thomas, you can’t keep avoiding us,” Charles called into the office where Thomas stood leaning over a desk, looking at a stack of papers with the information of all the employees that worked in the castle. “I’m not avoiding anyone,” he responded, not sparing him a single glance, “I’m doing my job as king.” Charles sighed, stepping further into the office, “Well you could at least notify me of your game plan.” Thomas fixed his posture, standing up straight and motioning to the papers. “These are the resumes of all the employees that work or have worked in the castle. I’m going through them to look for anything that seems out of place. I know for a fact she didn’t work alone. If my hunch is right, someone in this stack of resumes knows who she really is and where to find her,” he explained. 

“I thought you said you never wanted to see her again,” Charles questioned, eyeing the papers. “I don’t,” Thomas replied simply, “I’m merely doing my job as king. She stole from Audrilluria and I intend to lock her up for it. My past personal attachment has nothing to do with this. She is a criminal and she must pay for her crimes against my kingdom.” Charles looked at him in surprise. He’d thought for sure Thomas would still be broken about all this. How much does someone’s heart have to break in order for them to put aside their feelings and focus on making them pay? With the way Thomas was acting, he was sure he’d find out soon enough.

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

A/N: I don’t have much to say about this one other than I really hope you enjoyed it!! I promise all will be resolved soon!! Anyway, what did you think? Feel free to let me know as feedback is always accepted and encouraged. Thank you guys so much for all the support, comments, and messages!! I love you all and I can’t wait to get to the Verdict!! See you tomorrow for the Chapter 18 preview!!! Lots of love and please stay safe!!!

Taglist is OPEN:

@ladyblablabla​, @tvdplusriverdale​, @pipolaki​, @myraiswack​, @shockwavee​, @harringtonb-blog​, @cynic-spirit​, @little-moonbeam-666​, @ochizokulevy​​, @swifitiedaylight​, @blue-honey-bee-from-france​ @scorpionchild81​,  @imnotrevealingmyname​ @whathefuckrichard69​ @frostedgiant​ @falling4uke​​ @accio-boys​

[writemywaytoyourheart]

Onrsa- Chapter 5: Lost and Not So Found

pairing: vampire!jungkook x female reader

genre: angst, horror, drama, romance

word count: 1.5k

warnings for this chapter: noooone yet

Enjoy~

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It’s been a week since the last body was found.

If anything, the amount of time and no word from the killer has made the pit of anxiety in your stomach worse than it was a week ago. It seems almost like the murders never happened, like someone made up a scary story and all that’s left is the absence of four innocent people that you don’t even know. The air feels different and everyone can sense the emptiness that the poor victims left behind when their lives were unfairly taken.

You and Ga-In haven’t gone out at night since laundry day and going anywhere alone (even in the daytime) is breaking the unspoken rule between you two. You’re pretty sure she’s sick of you by now after being cooped up in the tiny apartment together for seven days in a row.

You drag your feet across the ground on your way through campus, a sluggishness in the air as everyone else seems to be lagging today as well. Some unspoken feeling in the air that there’s no reason to rush, but also a hint of underlying anxiety.

Something is off.

But, no one knows what it is.

You reach the cafeteria and numbly grab a tray, noting that the usual hum and buzz of casual conversation has dimmed considerably. You turn to scan the room and go over it twice, anxiety becoming a pit in your stomach when you don’t see Ga-In at your usual table.

In fact, she isn’t here at all.

You aren’t going to let yourself panic, she’s probably just being a slowpoke coming from her Biology class.

Although, she’s usually here way before you. The only other time she wasn’t was when she was sick at home with the flu.

No, don’t panic unless you have a reason to panic.

You make your way through the people that are all huddling together and whispering, but you really couldn’t care less about their stupid gossip. All you want is for Ga-In to come strutting through those cafeteria doors like the model she is, you’d feel a lot better if she did.

You sit and start unwrapping the silverware to eat your salad when some random boy plops himself down next to you and shoves his phone in your face.

“What the fu-”

“Have you heard the news?” He interrupts your exclamation of surprise and you just stare at him in confusion.

“I- what?” You have no idea who this kid is, let alone why the heck he’s talking to you right now, but when he says ‘have you heard the news’, your stomach twists for the nth time today.

This boy just continues as if it’s the most normal thing in the world, and you two have been best friends for years. “There’s a missing person case now.”

Your heart drops to your feet and your throat constricts painfully, “a- a what?” You stand up shakily even as you’re speaking. You can barely hear his response while grabbing your backpack, your head swimming and screaming at you to run and find her.

She’s fine. You saw her just this morning, you were in math class with her not even four hours ago. She can’t possibly be the one missing.

You keep repeating this mantra in your head, blocking out the kid that keeps talking about……whatever the heck it is he’s saying now. You bow to him and excuse yourself, slipping away and speed walking out of the room that’s now getting louder as people spread the word of the unfortunate soul who must’ve been the next target.

~

You step outside of the building and hold your hand up to cover your eyes from the bright sun; a few students are walking around campus, carrying book bags and chattering away without a single worry except what to eat for lunch, or that paper Mrs. Jong insists is due tomorrow, even though last week she definitely said Friday.

And you really, really don’t care. 

You run as fast as you can to the science building, flinging the door open and scaring a few students when you fly past them. Ga-In’s class is in room 502, so you hurry along the hall; eyes frantically scanning the numbers on the doors. You eventually find the right room and stop short; grabbing the handle and yanking the door open, you see a full classroom of about a hundred pairs of eyes staring at you.

Oh.

This is awkward.

The professor turns to look at you and you scurry inside to his miniature podium, “I- I’m really sorry, but I was just wondering if Kang Ga-In was still here.” The man smiles gently at you and shakes his head, “I’m sorry little lady, she left almost an hour ago after my last class.” You nod and bow, whispering a thank you and another apology for barging into his class, before you hurry out the door and close it quietly behind you.

Now what? What on earth are you supposed to do?

You try to close your eyes and keep a straight head but every time you let your mind wander, you see Ga-In dead in a ditch with two holes tainting her beautiful body and no answer as to who, how, or why.

You need to find her. You can’t just stand here.

At that thought, you take off running out of the science building and back outside where people are now swarming the sidewalks and the randomly placed grassy patches. You spin around, looking in all directions, wracking your mind for any place she might have gone. Someone across the campus grounds watches you quietly, but your mind is racing so fast you don’t even notice them. 

Where could she be?

Where could she be?

WHERE ON EARTH IS SHE?

By now you’re almost in tears.

A second later you jump about ten feet in the air when you feel a hand grab your shoulder. You fling around and position yourself as though you’re about to karate chop the heck out of the assaulter, before you see who it is.  

“y-y/n?”

“Seungwook?”

“Yeah, it’s me.” He smiles and laughs at the position you’re currently in, “what are you doing?” You sit there and blink blankly for a moment before straightening up and miming dusting your arms off, “I’m, uh, just looking for Ga-In. You haven’t seen her by any chance?”

Seungwook looks thoughtful for a moment then nods, “actually, I have. She was walking into the dance building when I passed by a couple minutes ago.” Your heart soars and you grab his hand, bowing over and over again.

“Thank you! Oh my gosh, thank you Seungwook, you’re an angel! I have to go, I’m sorry!” He laughs at your antics and watches with an amused smile when you dart away towards the building he mentioned.

You hurry into the dance building and see Ga-In through one of the windows in a dance room, she’s putting some shoes on and tying them. You throw the door open and run inside; wrapping your arms around her waist and holding on tightly.

“y/n? What’s the matter? What are you doing?” Your surprise attack knocked her a bit off balance but she managed to catch herself. The relief in you is almost suffocating, but then a tiny blossom of anger and betrayal sparks into a flame and you pull away with a scowl on your face.

“What’s the matter with you, Ga-In?? You scared me!” She looks totally confused as you cross your arms angrily in front of her. “Why- how did I scare you?” You scoff and throw your backpack in a corner of the room before turning on her again, “I thought you were kidnapped! There’s a missing person case, and you don’t show up to lunch and your professor hadn’t seen you since class ended!”

Ga-In looks guiltily at you and shrugs, “I sent you a text that said I wasn’t going to be going to lunch today. I thought you got it. I’m sorry y/n….” You huff, the anger already leaving your system at her stupid puppy dog eyes.

“Well, I never got the text. What are you even doing anyway?” She looks down shyly and shakes her head, “nothing.”

“No, no. Tell me~” You whine and pull on her sleeves, knowing when you do this it always makes her laugh. “Ok, ok! Let go of me, silly.” You smile and let go immediately, plopping yourself on the ground and waiting for her explanation.

“I needed a mirror so I could practice my….. -del -alk…”

“You what?” She mumbled the last part and you lean closer to hear her better. “I needed a mirror to practice my- my model…-walk.” Your chest warms at her confession and you hug her long legs, “Ga-In! I’m so excited for you! So, you decided to pursue it?” She nods slightly and you reach out to high-five her- which she responds to by gently tapping your outstretched hand.

What a cutie-

“Wait.”

“Hm?” You look up at her sudden question and the nerves immediately come back at her next words, “what was that about a missing person?”

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

a/n: y’all are in for a twist in the next chapter ;) thanks for sticking with me! I promise Kookie will show up soon, I really do. I just have to get the leading up to stuff over with

[allie1804-fan]

Please Assist Me (Chapter 17)

Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8,  Chapter 9, Ch6apter 10 , Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13, Chapter 14, Chapter 15 , Chapter 16

Warnings: Some explicit Content

 He Said

The wrap for the film in November left me high - it had been an amazing experience again for me but the joy at the film completing was made so much better by the knowledge that I would soon be back home, holding Sophia in my arms.

I got back to my apartment after the wrap party at around midnight, slightly inebriated and dialled her back in LA.  

“It’s done, I’m coming home” I declared.

“you seem happy” she said laughing at my slurred speech “are you drunk?”

“little bit I think, yup! You alone?”

“a ha – kids are at Julie’s today”

“ooooh goody, wanna play?”

 She Said

When Ke called me after the wrap party, he was clearly a little drunk, a bit goofy ……and horny. A few times whilst he’d been away, we’d masturbated together and I knew that was where this was going today. I moved into the bedroom and he started softly instructing me as to which garments to remove, what to show him and telling me everything he wanted to do to me when he got back.  He was the master of story telling and timing, holding off telling me to touch myself for as long as he could so that when the time came and he encouraged me ……….

“now  touch yourself, imagine my tongue….”

I was off like a firecracker, screaming his name which pushed him over the edge too, a loud grunt coming through the speaker of the iPad.

I propped the iPad up against his pillow on the bed and we stared at each other, smiling and I know I was blushing a little.

“Why do you always blush when we do that? We are allowed you know, you are my girlfriend right?”

I nodded, giggling a little.

“Yeah, it’s just that it’s 3.30 in the afternoon here - it feels very decadent to be touching myself while the kids are off doing their school day!”

“Where are they on Friday? I get in at around 7am?”

“Lucky you, it’s Miranda’s day. But you should get some sleep”

“I’ll sleep on the plane …………..and after I’ve taken you!”

“Promises, promises”

“Absolutely!”

He Said

“Told you!”

“Told me what?” Sophia breathed as she lay back on the pillow, her long brown hair fanning out around her and her chest still rosy pink with the flush of orgasm.

“Told you I’d take you first before sleep today” I murmured, sinking into the pillow and yawning.

“Poor old man’s sleepy”

“Hey, less of the old”

Sophia pulled up the covers and ran soothing hands over my shoulders”

“Get some rest baby and thank you”

“For what?”

“Coming back to me and keeping your promise”

I could feel myself drifting into dreams already “mmm no problem, I love you Sophia, I’m so glad to be home”

“Love you too Ke”

When I woke up it was early afternoon and Sophia had made a spread of some of my favourite things for lunch, chief among which was a Peanut butter and jelly sandwich! I feasted and we talked about our plans for the time we now had together.  There were still restrictions in California due to Covid so there were limitations on how much we could do but truth be told my main priority was investing time with this newly forming family, seeing some other family and friends and taking some bike rides.  There would be John Wick training in the new year but until then, my time was my own.

 She Said

Once Keanu was back and we’d got over the initial rush of excitement to be together again, we settled into something of a routine.

He’d stay over a couple of nights a week and at least once a week I’d spend the day with him at his house, often just enjoying a decadent day between the sheets.  A Wednesday would be similar for us to a Sunday for a couple who didn’t have kids in the house bouncing out of bed at 7am!

Whilst we did have a routine of sorts there were still adjustments to be made. One of these took me a little by surprise and was partly triggered by a routine letter from my doctor.

Keanu was there as I opened it.

“Everything OK?

“Oh, yeah sure, it’s just about my coil. It’s going to expire soon so I have to go in for a consult”

“Oh and are you just going to get another one or ….?”

“Or what ?”

I had known this decision was coming soon and it had got me questioning whether it was the end of the road for me and babies. Some friends around me were still having more kids and that was one factor in me questioning it. The last new baby had arrived only a couple of weeks ago  - it was Julie’s so we’d gone to visit, taking a gift.  I got to cuddle her little boy Matthew too since we were in the bubble together. I remembered Keanu’s indulgent expression as I’d declared

“Babies just rule don’t they? Every home should have one! – but then again they are soooo much work!”  

I was only joking around but it was true, I did love babies and I couldn’t say for sure that I was content with declaring an end to my child-bearing years by getting another coil fitted for 10 or more years. I know you can take them out early but the fact that it could just go in and stay in did make that particular choice feel quite final. On the other hand, it was safe and super convenient and meant no condoms which I had never liked and most men I knew didn’t either. I wondered what Keanu thought of my comment. He was so great with my 2 kids  - I didn’t know whether he regretted not having kids of his own – I mean I guess that was kind of inevitable given what he had lost but I didn’t know if it was something he wanted still.

“Or …… do you ever wonder about having more kids?”

“Gosh, I don’t know”

“No? You weren’t thinking about it when cuddling baby Matthew the other day?”

I blushed.

“Well, maybe it crossed my mind that this decision was coming up”

“and?”

I took a deep breath

“And I wasn’t sure I was completely ready to …….. to close the door” I admitted.

 He Said

I sat at my desk, a blank piece of paper in front of me. I was about to embark on a methodical analysis of my thoughts on having a kid with Sophia. After she’d said she wasn’t sure she was ready to close the door, she asked me what I wanted.  Gosh, that took the wind out of my sails even though I had been the one to lift the lid by asking her about her coil. To be honest, it was the way she had been with baby Matthew that had started me thinking before that and had re-awakened in me something I’d not felt since my 40s: The longing to have a child of my own.

I started jotting down thoughts  - pros and cons and trying somehow to think about how positive or negative they each were. It was no good weighing a negative like sleepless nights against a positive like giving my mother grandchildren and my sisters a niece or nephew.  I was still pouring over my page, filling it with thoughts and adding circles around key words and phrases when Sophia popped her head around the corner to say hi. She’d just arrived after dropping the kids at Miranda’s.

“Hey what’s this?”  she asked leaning over my shoulder and kissing my cheek.

“Well, it’s me attempting to be rational, practical, you know about what we talked about yesterday”

“Oh, I see” she responded as she started to scan the page.

“you’re not too old” she exclaimed, picking up on one of the negatives I’d written.

“You sure ?– I mean I could be nearly 80 when they’re 20 something – my mom was 40 when I was 20!”

“Yeah but I’ll be 50 when Eva is 20  - 20 was very young to have a kid by today’s standards. What are the numbers next to each thing?”

“A scoring system” I said blushing a bit.

“Oh my god, how scientific are we getting!?”

“Like I said” I defended, “I’m trying to be pragmatic, weigh things in the balance which is hard when you have things like this in the mix”

I pointed to the biggest word on the page which I’d started to draw around. It was ‘Love’ and it was certainly the thing that counted most in the balance. The love that a child could bring into my life and everyone else in our families was why seeing Sophia with Matthew that day had sparked all those feelings. It didn’t really matter that much that I might need to do fewer projects, that I’d have less freedom and time to myself for creative projects, that we’d be building a complex family melding with the existing one. I think the only thing on the page I could see that made me hesitate were the words “Loss” , “risk and “disappointment”. How on earth could we embark on this path and accept that maybe Sophia wouldn’t get pregnant, what steps would we take if that was the case or would we just agree that if it didn’t happen on its own then that was the end of it. Or maybe she would conceive and then we’d lose the baby like Ava  ……… That option almost equalled the love one in terms of being the opposite in negative points.

“Come on,  take a break, have some lunch with me and then talk me through it OK? Maybe I should do the same task huh? We’ll work it out” she soothed, squeezing my hand.

She Said

Keanu was quiet through lunch. I could tell that this topic was really taxing  his head and heart and I felt guilty that my contraceptive choices had brought this to the fore. He reassured me that in fact, it was seeing me with baby Matthew that had really started the thoughts spinning round his mind.

Whilst I teased him about his giant mind map of pros and cons with its elaborate points system,  it was really useful as a prompt to talk it through. It didn’t strip emotion out of it, after all, how could it with the word love and all its layers of meaning sitting at the centre of the page, but it meant we did consider everything as best we could.

It was the first time we’d talked in any detail about Ava and that experience of loss. He told me most of it, leaning back in the lounger by the pool, eyes closed, holding my hand, an occasional tear leaking out. The horror of giving birth to a silent, dead baby filled me with sorrow for him and Jen and, if I’m honest, some fear for myself. Fear of being the one to do that to him again, fear of embarking on something that held such potential danger. It had never felt that way as I had innocently embarked on my pregnancies with Eva and Miguel.

By the time I had to leave that afternoon, we had almost got to our conclusion, but agreed to sleep on it for a few days. Ironically, he called this technique “incubation”! He said you didn’t actually have to actively think about it but letting it just sit in the back of your mind meant that you would process it and come to a conclusion that you were comfortable with.

 He Said

I wanted to pinch myself when I thought back to last Christmas Eve. The two years could not be more different. This evening, at nearly midnight, I found myself hovering outside Miguel’s bedroom door, checking for the steady sounds of him sleeping before sneaking in with his stocking containing a few presents for when he woke up.  Sophia was doing the same outside Eva’s door. As I crept up to his bed, looking at his angelic little face, almost black hair sticking out of the covers just a bit, I felt centred and certain about our decisions last month.

He and Eva were my family too now, not officially in law, but in practice they spent more time with me than with their Dad these days.  They were comfortable with me, even as an occasional disciplinarian not just a playmate. And that was enough for me and Sophia - if we added to the brood with a child of our own, then great; We weren’t making any efforts to stop a pregnancy  and we were both taking care of our health but we would not have any fertility interventions and would stop if  nothing had happened after a couple of years since Sophia was nearly 40.  We had both agreed that we didn’t want to push our luck too far with a risky pregnancy.

 She Said

My main memory of our first Christmas together was Keanu’s goofy grin that seemed to be permanently plastered on his face for the whole holidays.  It was there for all the special meals we shared, there when we all opened our gifts from him (purchased without PA help!) and there when he closed the bedroom door and came to make love to me each night, stifling the sounds of our passion from the kids with his kisses.

We were in a cocoon of love and tenderness - I knew work was on the horizon for him and that would change our rhythm again soon enough but for now, we could bask in each other’s love, enjoy the children together and carry a little spark of hope that I might be able to fall pregnant with his child before long.

Once the holidays were over, Keanu was back to developing John Wick 4 and starting a new programme of training.  We would have to endure some separation again once shooting started in April in New York but we were all decamping at the start to his apartment there since it would be the holidays then. We even had plans to decorate a bedroom each for the children so they would feel at home when we visited. I wanted them to feel safe and secure. It turned out that this was the one thing I couldn’t guarantee for them, now their mother was publicly dating a movie-star.

@fortheloveoffanfic @kindainlovewithkeanu @omg-imagine @iworshipkeanureeves @fics-not-tragedies @ficsnroses @keanureevesisbae @penwieldingdreamer @witty-wallflower @paperplanesandwallflowers @bitchyslut99 @ladyreapermc @toomanystoriessolittletime @fanficsrusz @keanuficfiles   

[lynneshobbydomain]

Just Say Yes (OwaMiki Week 2020 Day 2)

((Thank you so much OwaMiki Week for hosting this event! I’m super excited for this pairing!))

Prompt: Birthday/Domestic.

Rating: T

Summary: Mikan comes home from work tired and exhausted and sees a romantic set up waiting for her.

You can read under the cut or at my AO3

It was nothing that she ever experienced before. Mikan came back home from her day at the hospital with bone weary exhaustion seeping into her very core. Just taking her shoes off at the genkan and putting her purse on to the table next to it was more of a relief. Her shoulders felt just a bit lighter from carrying her purse, and her feet were able to breathe after being in her shoes for nearly thirty hours. She took her hair down from the tight bun that was up against her skull, her head throbbing from a small headache. She needed to drink some water, and eat something that wasn’t stuck in a microwave. Just thinking that, her nose caught a scent of food and her stomach growled pitfully as she looked into the apartment. 

The living room was dim, save for a couple of candles that were on the table in front of the T.V. There was a vase in the middle of the small table. She also noticed that it was covered in a ruby red cloth. She tilted her head in confusion as she carefully walked over to the kitchen to see Mondo was at the stove.

It wasn’t an uncommon sight even though it was out of place depending on who knew him. Mondo was standing at the stove. He knew how to cook using fire and he was good at it, even if Mikan would prefer him to not do anything tricky like Teruteru. It was one thing for the Ultimate Chief. It was another entirely when her boyfriend didn’t have any sort of skill save for determination and stubbornness. 

She went over to the fridge and cracked it open and blinked when she saw that there was a gift wrapped in bright ice blue wrapping paper. “Yo-you hid a gi-gift in the re-refridgorator?”

“Hey babe!” Mondo greeted enthusiastically. “Don’t worry about the gift the cold won’t hurt it. How was work?”

Just being reminded that she came home from absolute hell made her want to go back into the living room and put her feet up. She grabbed a bottle of water that was in the fridge, and noticed a note that was lying underneath it. She took that out with the bottle. “I-it was okay.” She said after a moment. “Wh-what’s with the n-note?”

“You can read that if you want to.” Mondo said, not even looking up from the stove. Mikan appreciated that. Last time he got distracted by her, it had been a disaster. “Go sit down babe, this’ll be done in a bit.”

“O-okay.” Mikan took the water bottle and the note, knowing very well that if she even tried to offer to help Mondo would tell her no and force her back into the living room anyway. She sat herself down at the table and smiled when she took note of the flowers. Daffodils, camelias, peonies. She wondered if it was from all the late work hours that she was pulling as of late. 

Mikan would never ever feel guilty for helping people, and Mondo refused to let her even think that way too. However, she knew that she was missing a lot leaving him home alone and sometimes for days. Yet Mondo not once told her that she should leave her job, or even tried to get her to spend a day with him. If anything, he pushed her to go, pushed her to continue to do what she did best, and if anything he liked to brag about her accomplishments in her field. 

She never thought anyone would ever...do that. As an Ultimate, her talent was just...there. She worked hard and got good at it for no other reason than survival. Mondo on the other hand saw that talent of hers and thought it was the best thing that she could have. He saw it in such a different light than she did, it made her only work harder to prove to him that his faith in her wasn’t in vain.

She looked at the note that was lying near her harmlessly and she thought about the gift in the fridge that she left behind. It was such a weird place to put something like that. She wondered if it was supposed to be enjoyed cold. She didn’t usually have much use for things unless it was replenishing her first aid kit, or something they both could use around the house. Everyone in their friend group knew that there were never enough bandages in their apartment due to someone always getting hurt when they were out on the job. 

Mikan took the note and with trembling fingertips she carefully unfolded the paper. She found it amusing that it was stationary paper, and it had pictures of bandages and a nurses hat and a thermator all scattered about on the border. His writing was short and to the point.

Happy Birthday, Babe.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself. The food should be easy to heat up.

Love you!

Oh. He wrote this just in case she didn’t make it home. Then the lightbulb flicked on and she looked at the flowers and then the note and then over at him in the kitchen. It was her birthday?! She had been so busy, it was completely out of her mind! No wonder everything looked nice. He was hoping that she’d come by but he was completely prepared for her to not be able to come home. She pursed her lips together as she carefully tucked the note back into its fold. Now she understood why it was underneath the water bottle. It would be the very first thing she’d go after when she came home.

Mondo came back with the plates of food and her stomach growled helplessly at the presentation. They both tucked into the dinner, Mikan trying to eat as slowly as possible to savor every nuance of the food. There really was no telling when she’d be able to sit down and have a proper meal with the chaos that was happening at the hospital. She just felt bad for the nurse that had to take over her shift. It was a terrible time, and while all hands were needed on deck, no one was good if they overworked themselves to exhaustion. Even if society and economic pressure demanded it of them.

“Th-thank you for the flowers.” Mikan finally broke the silence between them. “A-and for dinner.”

“Any time babe. I’m glad you like the flowers. That was...I wasn’t sure exactly what to fucking do.” Mondo admitted. “I had Taka help me.”

“T-taka? Of all people?” It wasn’t that she doubted Taka’s keen eye if anything she was more concerned about having two loud personalities in the flourist shop. “Wh-why?”

“It was more or less a man to man thing. You get it.” Mondo sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. “He’s good at letting me know when I’m doin’ somethin’ stupid. Or going overboard. If anything, the bastard thought this was tame.”

“T-tame?” Mikan stared at Mondo. “Wh-what were you act-actually planning on do-doing?!” She could already see how well it would go down if he thought taking her to a bar would be a good idea. Mondo didn’t drink necessarily, but there were times he would partake with his ex-gang. They all adored him and wanted nothing but the best for him. His leadership left a legacy that no one could touch, even when he decided to change careers. Hope’s Peak Academy had hoped that he would continue on, but both Mikan and Mondo agreed that the softer side of things was more their style.

It wasn’t like Mondo completely abandoned the motorcycle. He was just under strict orders to not wind up in the hospital. 

“Nothin’ like you’re thinkin’. Promise.” Mondo assured. “I know you don’t like to ride.”

“No-not when you de-decide to go f-fast.” Mikan clasped her hands together. She saw enough aftermath of wrecks to know what kind of damage Mondo could go through and those were enough nightmares that kept her worrying when she did come home to an empty apartment and knowing that he was with his gang somewhere. 

Mondo gave her a soft look, “I ain’t gonna get myself hurt. You don’t need to worry yourself too much over it.”

“I c-can’t help that.” Mikan laughed and Mondo shook his head. She learned a long time ago that she had to tame that worry back. He wasn’t going to change too much from the reckless boy she met in high school. All she could do was be there for him however she could. They both had their freedoms. It wasn’t like either of them were willing to tie each other down. Even if there were occassions Mikan wondered and fretted if she was too much, too overwhelming, if she was liked...if she was loved. 

Mondo never ever made her doubt it though. Her brain would tease the thought, but he would perish it. “Imma get your gift. Sit tight.” He told her as he grabbed their empty plates and he headed back to the fridge.

She still had to wonder what was up with the hiding place. It was such a small box too. Was it a type of chocolate? She didn’t mind sweets too much, but if it was, then it wasn’t something she could easily share. If Mondo went out of his way to make sure that she couldn’t split it in half with her, then she was going to have to remind herself to do the same for his birthday. 

Much to her surprise however, he came back with two plated cupcakes and the gift. “You di-didn’t.” Mikan stared.

“A birthday deserves a cake. I got you strawberry. You prefer those, right?” Mondo asked as he sat back. “I don’t really get the whole “sweet” thing, but...I know that if I didn’t get one myself you’d tear that in half and fucking force me to eat it.”

“I do-don’t for-force you!” Mikan tried to defend. “I sh-share there is a diff-difference.” 

Mondo grinned and her cheeks tinted a bright pink. “Pretty sure you tried to stuff it in my mouth and got icin’ all over my damn face.”

“Yo-you moved!” Mikan protested, laughing through her words. “I as-asked you!” 

“Yeah, yeah. Whatever.” Mondo rolled his eyes, but the easy fondness was still there. He gently pushed the small box over towards her and she blinked at the gift. “Open it.” He told her. 

“I-it’s very small.” Mikan felt foolish for even saying that aloud. She could hear Mondo scoff and she grinned as she slowly peeled the wrapping paper away from the box, knowing that the suspense was going to murder him.

She could feel the table jig as his knee kept hitting the top. He was impatiently waiting for her to get through the paper, but she liked the suspense that she was giving. It was a little fun to tease. Admittedly, she was just as curious to the gift as he was to see her reaction. She finally pulled the fully intact wrapping paper away and stared.

It was a ring box.

Her heart thudded loud enough that she was certain it was going to go out of her chest. She looked up at Mondo, whose knee only jiggled harder as he looked away from her. A red tint to his cheeks.

She cracked open the box.

“Marry me.” Mondo said gruffly.

“Wh-what?”

“I said fuckin’ marry me.” Mondo looked at Mikan and she felt her eyes widen in surprise. “I’m really no fuckin’ good at this shit. I don’t know how to be sappy. I can’t write you a love poem or...tell you how much you fuckin’ mean to me. You’re not scared of me. We have a good thing goin’ just…”

“Marry you.” Mikan finished his sentence, without a stammar in sight. He nodded and they both looked at each other in the eye. She looked down at the ring box and she smiled warmly as she reached into it and took it out, putting it on her finger. “Th-then I guess I do-don’t have a ch-choice.”

“Of course you have a fuc-”

She leaned over the table, mindful of where the candles were and she pressed a kiss against his lips. “No I don't.” She said as she pulled away. “I love you.”

“Goddamn it babe..” Mondo reached and gently tugged her back down to his lips, kissing her back. 

She may have come home exhausted, but nothing was going to compare to the restless night he would give her for this. 

[tinypotatoo]

This is a gift for @senpai-writes as a part of the Haikyuu Secret Santa 2019! Hope you enjoy it! :)

Thank you admin Red ( @supern-a-vengers ) for hosting this! Happy holidays!

There was no snow, not yet at least, but the weather was so cold one could see their breath condensating mid air as they breathed out. That wasn’t the case with you however, the gentle puffs of air being blocked by the scarf you hid most of your face in. You sniffled, nose warmer in the soft fabric than it would have been if it was exposed to the winter; much like the hands hidden in the pockets of the coat. There was more than enough pieces on you to keep you warm in the ungrateful conditions, yet your whole body continued to tremble. That wasn’t due the coolness surrounding you, you were aware of that. No, it was the excitement mixing with nervousness as you waited for your date. He was bound to appear any moment now, making you softly bounce in spot. By any mean, he wasn’t late, you simply decided to show up earlier; not able to stand the suffocating air of your room, instead needing the chilly outside. That helped, for a while, but now that the time of meeting him approached, your nerves started to do their magic.

You sniffled once more, the buzzing against the palm of your hand suddenly diverting your thoughts from the crowd of people passing by. Fishing out your phone, you tapped, opening the text. It was a simple message of ‘where are you? i’m freezing’ followed by a dubious amount of crying emojis. A tiny smile stretched across your face as you huffed; eyes looking up. You turned left and right, but your date was nowhere to be seen. It was odd since you said to meet in front of the biggest Christmas tree in the city. Sure, there were other people waiting and walking around the well lit piece of forest, but you shouldn’t have been that hard to find. Apparently, a mere minute was too long to wait for response; the phone in your hand starting to buzz once again. This time it wasn’t a message, but a picture of a dark haired man smiling at you, with Mr.Meow written under it. It was silly, but you each chose your names in each other’s phones making it also quite adorable.

“Hello?” You answered, still looking around, hoping to see a familiar face soon. “Skye.” The sound of his voice made you look down for a moment, the redness of your face definitely due the cold. “Where are you?” He sounded like he was looking around too, “I’m waiting here, by the tree.” “Me too.” Your eyes were back up, glancing at the unfamiliar faces around you, “There is the clock-” “What?” His voice deepened, same as always when he was serious. You were sure you agreed to meet by this exact tree, at this exact spot. Yet Kuroo thought differently, “Didn’t we say on the side without the clock?” “I-” You blinked, his words making little sense. Why would anyone make is so complicated? “I’ll be right there.” There was a sigh in your ear and the call cut off, the smile even wider on your face.

Putting your phone back in the pocket, you bounced in place to keep warm. Just a few seconds later, your eyes spotted the tall man and you shook your head as he approached you. As he closed in, the smile on his face grew, a light chuckle echoing through your soul as he hugged you.

“I was convinced we said the other side.” Pulling away, he stared down at you; joy sparkling in his eyes. Kuroo was heavily dressed, same as you, but stylish nonetheless. His pants, coat and beanie all matched, which wasn’t hard since they were all black; only colour on him being his flushing cheeks. Besides that, there was also a hefty multicoloured bag with mysterious content. You raised an eyebrow at the size of it, which he seemingly ignored.

“That makes zero sense and you know it.” Placing a kiss on the top of your head and finally letting you go from his grasp, Kuroo shrugged, a little pout forming on his lips. However, you could see the corners of his lips twitching in need to show off his happiness, “B-But!” He whined and sniffed rather dramatically, “I just wanted to be right at least once.”

You rolled your eyes, earning a cackle and another hug. Kuroo had a lot of knowledge stored in him, making him right most of the time. And when he wasn’t, he always admitted it and learnt on what was wrong in his thinking. Well, always except when it came to little things he could have whined about to you. It was endearing, seeing that happy pout decorating his face. Usually you’d kiss it better, which would he count as a win.

At this point in time, you were both out in the cold for a while, waiting for each other. So it was no wonder Kuroo huddled you two together, still not letting go from that hug. Shivering more by each passing second, Kuroo sniffled, his nose redder than your hidden one, “We should go somewhere warm.”

You simply nodded and he let go, sticking a hand into the pocket of your coat and intertwining fingers. Even though you were appreciative of the gesture, the freezing hand sent goosebumps up your arm, right to the heart, making it skip a beat.

~

The walk to one of your favourite cafe’s wasn’t a long one, despite a few stops by the magnificent Christmas lights both of you were fascinated by. The cafe itself was also was also heavily decorated, with a pungent scent of cinnamon hitting your faces as Kuroo held the door open for you. With the warmth engulfing you, you shivered, your body adjusting to the shift in temperature. Kuroo was soon next to you, quick to catch attention of one of the waiters. What was unknown to you was the fact that the raven haired man had made a reservation. It was a smart thing he did, the cafe you often visited and enjoyed due the quiet atmosphere now buzzing with chatter and people. No wonder really, their pastry was divine. As Kuroo dealt with the arrangements, your eyes glanced over the glass display cabinets filled with all kinds of colourful cakes, biscuits and whatnot. Though soon enough your hand holding onto yours again and tugging you along.

Maneuvering around the busy cafe, you came to a stop in front of a table for two in front of one of the windows. The sight outside wasn’t crowded with people but the bright twinkling spirit of the holidays. Discarding the coat, beanie and scarf, you sighed in relief, finally able to breathe without the cloth covering your face. Making yourself comfortable in the seat, you looked up at Kuroo, a giggle vibrating throughout your body. Once the man removed his black coat, he revealed a bright red sweater, decorated with reindeers, snowmans, Christmas trees and writings of ‘Merry Christmas’ and ‘Happy holidays’. It was truly wonderful what he was able to hide under all that monochromatic clothes.

“It’s mom’s gift this year, isn’t it great?” His face lightened up at the sound of your glee, eyes glancing between you and the vibrant sweater. It was even better than the last year’s one, dark green and decorated as if the person wearing it was a tree.

“I love it.” Small tears pricked at your eyes, the smile hurting your cheeks. Kuroo chuckled out a breath, leaning closer over the table as if to whisper you something, “Don’t tell that to my mom or you’ll be getting one too.”

“Okay, okay~” You waved your hand with another laugh; the idea of having matching crazy holiday sweaters seemingly not that unappealing.

The same waiter passed by, leaving the two menus.

“Hey, an idea.” You haven’t got the time to open the handed list of cakes and beverages, yet Kuroo’s eyes shone with mischief. You bit your bottom lip softly, excitement obvious in your eyes as they rested on the man’s stunning features.

“How about we order for each other?” His eyebrows were raised, waiting patiently for a nod. And a nod they received; together with a small laugh. You knew the idea wouldn’t be over the top one and that you would both share the pieces you got, but it was a fun little thing to do.

“Sure, but no insane ice cream cups and things like that.” You pointed a finger at him with raised brows, earning an eye roll and a sigh, followed by, “Fine.”

“You promise?” Kuroo huffed a laugh, his brown eyes warm with fondness. He held out his hand, his pinky sticking out. You smiled and accepted it with yours, sealing the deal with your thumbs connecting, “I promise.”

With that, both of you looked down at the paper, investigating the contents of it. You were quick to decide, opting out for apple pie, knowing Kuroo would still order something over the top and filled with chocolate. As the waiter came by, you two pointed at the things you wanted to order, not uttering a word so it would be a surprise. Despite the busyness of the establishment, the order arrived swiftly.

“Apple pie?” The scent of cinnamon tickled Kuroo’s nose and he gulped, barely holding on to his sanity and not vacuuming the thing whole, “What am I, an old lady?”

“Are you not?” You bit your lip in attempt of stopping a grin spreading over your face, but that was a failure. Shrugging, you looked at him, “Could’ve fooled me.”

“Ouch.” Kuroo’s huff turned into a laugh, a hand placed on his chest, yet not fooling anyone, “Fair point, though.”

Not wasting a second more, Kuroo focused on his pie as you did with a piece in front of you. You knew exactly what it was since it was marked as special holiday offer; a triple choco cake. The scent of chocolate wasn’t overwhelming but sweet, prompting you to try it.

The moment the sweet chocolate coated your tongue, you sighed, the cold of today already forgotten. Kuroo sighed in delight too, harmonizing with you and enjoying the food.

~

The atmosphere was cozy and warm, the warmth itself spreading through your body as you laughed away the dessert with Kuroo. Once you were both done, you continued to chat until the small silence enveloped you. It wasn’t an awkward one by any mean, but the one where you simply appreciated each other’s company. His hand rested on yours, both on top of the table. A finger gently caressed your skin, before tapping on it, diverting your attention from the endless dream the hazel eyes provided.

“So…I got you a little something.” You wanted to snort at that since the gift he got you definitely wasn’t a little one. But the soft blush that washed over Kuroo’s cheeks wasn’t a laughing matter. Instantly, you could feel the heat in your cheeks too, while your heart started to pump like mad.

“I got you something too.” You smiled softly, pulling the hand away from his and getting a red package out of your bag, “Matches with your outfit.”

Kuroo chuckled, accepting the gift you offered him as he gave the colourful paper bag; which then you placed on your lap. Instead of opening it immediately, you held onto it, nodding towards the man, “Old ladies first.”

He snorted at your unexpected remark, shaking his head and trying to mimic an cartoonish old lady’s voice, “Thank you, my dear.”

There was nothing graceful in him ripping the paper, the sound of destruction stopping once he saw the insides it held.

“No. No way!” The wide eyes stared between you and the gift, making you smile and shrug, “Try it on.”

“Noo~ Skye, you didn’t!” He pulled out a piece of cloth, black in colour almost completely. In the corner of one side, there was a little white cat; same as the one on your scarf.

“Now we just need matching sweaters.” You laughed while Kuroo was still mesmerized by you buying him a scarf to match yours. This time, it was his turn for a heart to skip a beat as he hugged the scarf and looked at you, with nothing but adoration sparkling in his eyes. You didn’t have to tell him twice for him to wear it, the plush cloth warming his face as he hid in it, much like you did earlier. Blinking to get rid of the tiny tears which did not at all pool in his eyes, Kuroo pointed at the bag in your possession and mumbled, “Your turn, babe.”

Excitement shivered through you as you removed a bunch of coloured paper that stuck out of the bag. A small gasp escaped you as your eyes doubled, your turn to stare between him and the gift. Without uttering a word, you pulled out a soft stuffed animal, placing the paper bag on the floor beside you. The second you saw it you knew what it was, a black cat, but it wasn’t just a normal, everyday black cat. It was round, perfect to fit in your arms as you hugged it.

“I love it.” You squeezed it in your arms, looking up at Kuroo thrilled, “Thank you.”

He simply hummed, placing a hand on the table with his palm up, inviting you to hold onto him.

~

After the cafe, there wasn’t much time left of your date, but Kuroo insisted on showing off his new scarf to the world. As you admired the holiday lights once more, you found yourselves back from where you started, in front of the big Christmas tree. With the radiant lights flickering around you, you found yourself staring at him and him only.

“Thank you for today.” You poked your face out of the scarf, smiling up at him. While one of Kuroo’s hands held onto yours, the other came up to cup your cheek. The chill touch of his fingers made you quiver, raising your heartbeat. Kuroo leaned down, pressing his lips onto yours; the warmth of the kiss shivering through your body. You were able to taste the rich apple flavour mixed with the deep sweetness of chocolate, knowing you probably tasted the same. Freeing your lips, Kuroo placed a kiss on your reddened nose, smiling as the thumb brushed over the blushing cheek fondly, “It’s been a pleasure, my love.”

[amyscascadingtabs]

this is life in color

inspired by @johnny-and-dora‘s brilliant fic holding back the flood

read on ao3 here

Jake really should be sleeping.

It’s two a.m. at night, T-minus five hours to their alarms going off for work the next morning, and he didn’t exactly sleep much the night before this either. None of these facts are well compatible with him getting to work on a craft project- yet a craft project is exactly what he has placed in front of him at this moment. He has a set of markers, not his wife’s best ones (he wouldn’t dare use those in anything but an emergency) but the ones ranked number three in her top-five sets of them, white paper, a neon pink highlighter and a black 0.5 pen, an old magazine to keep the paper flat while he’s working and a head full of ideas.

Well, technically it’s just one idea. But it’s a good one. It should count as several ideas, seeing how proud and probably a little bit horny this should make his wife. She deserves it, especially since the reason he’s up in the first place is due to him being woken up by her throwing herself out of bed an hour ago to rush to the bathroom. He spent the following thirty minutes sitting legs crossed on their bathroom floor holding back her hair, helping her take deep breaths, getting her water and eventually helping her brush her teeth and get back to bed.

Being seven weeks (and three days) pregnant is apparently no joke. He wishes desperately he could do it for her, take over the near-constant nausea and exhaustion and headaches for even a day or two, but since he lacks both a uterus and magic powers, that’s not happening anytime soon. A pregnancy is long, he’s learning, and the weeks until they’re past the point where the risk for miscarriage is lowered and they’ll announce it to their friends and family seems the longest. He wants to shout it from the rooftops already, that Amy’s for realz-realz pregnant, they're having a baby, he’s slightly helped in the creation of a tiny mini human growing inside of his wife. It's the best secret he's ever carried and he can't even tell Charles. In fact, as of right now they're three living beings aware of it; him, his wife and the raspberry-sized fetus pictured like a white blob on the ultrasound picture stuck to their fridge.

This would all be fine and dandy if it weren't for the fact that they spend the majority of their day around people who doesn't know and can't know yet. It's already occurred several times that Amy needs to speak with him about something pregnancy-related while other people are around, resulting in them coming up with a not-so-great excuse about the two of them absolutely needing to go see her niece’s school performance in the middle of the day when they left for the ultrasound, a lie which later led to one too many questions from Terry about the show they had to come up with fake answers to. They need a new system, and Jake knows exactly what it's going to be.

On the paper in front of him, he's drawn seven slightly skewed squares in different sizes and colored them each. There's a blue one, a red one, yellow, green, purple, orange and pink, their color labeled next to them. Under the titles are brief descriptions for what the colors stand for.

It’s the middle of the night and Jake Peralta has created a code system just for him and his wife to be able to talk about anything pregnancy-related without raising anyone’s suspicions. He’s literally never been prouder of himself, and this overpowering pride is making him way too excited to keep this brilliant creation to himself. Amy needs to know.

She’s already stirring next to him, so he’s not technically waking her up - just giving her something good to wake up to. He places a gentle hand on her shoulder, squeezing it a little bit and getting an incomprehensible murmur back.

“Hey, Ames, I made us something.”

“Hnnnfffgggghh”, the response comes. “How important?”

“It’s a code system.”

Her eyes are suddenly wide open as she looks up from the pillow she’s buried her head in, pushing her sleep-tousled hair away from her face to see him better. “Do spill”, she yawns.

“So you know how it’s been an issue recently that we can’t talk about the whole -” He gestures to her flat stomach “- pregnant thing, around other people yet? I’ve come up with a solution.” Jake holds up the paper.

Her eyes grow wider, mouth gaping. “A color-based code system?”

“Indeed. Want me to walk you through it?”

“Please.”

“Thought so”, he grins. “We begin with code red. Code red is the one I hope we don’t have to use, but it’s there in case. It means health emergency. If you start experiencing a lot of pain or heavy bleeding or any of that bad stuff the pregnancy podcast I listened to while making dinner yesterday talked about, or if you’re feeling weird and you’re worried, tell me code red and it means we’re going the hospital stat.”

“Safety measure”, she nods. “Smart. And I’m really proud of you for listening to a podcast.”

“I know, that’s why I did it. Next we have code blue. Code blue’s if you’re crying or spiralling or anxious - if everything’s too much and you need me to come talk you down.”

“Might happen, yeah.”

“Code yellow is if you’re really nauseous or exhausted or feeling too crappy to be at work and need me to take you home”, he continues. “Because I will. I know you take your job really seriously, but you need rest.”

Amy smiles, running her thumb over his cheek. “That’s very sweet of you.”

“Doi. Then there’s code orange. That means someone is close to finding out and we need to help the other one cover so the news don’t get out before we want them to.”

“Smart. And what’s code green for?”

“Well, I figured I should include everything, so code green’s basically if you need me to take you away to storage locker J and get you in a better mood, so to speak.”

She rolls her eyes. “I’m not having sex with you at work.”

“Oh, you say that now.” He nods, giving her a serious look. “But the pregnancy podcast also did say that pregnant women’s sex drives can get really intense in the second trimester and I want you to know that I’m always available for that.”

“You’re ridiculous.”

“ I take my job as husband and baby daddy very seriously. Anyway, code yellow is food cravings. If you need me to get you milkshakes or exotic vegetables or whatever you’re craving, code yellow and the food you need me to get.”

“Got it. And what’s the last square?”

“The last square is code pink”, he explains. “That’s similar to code blue, I’d say, but in a more positive way. It’s if you need to talk to me and be sappy and emotional over how great this is.” He places the paper on his nightstand to free his hands, shuffling closer to her to hold her in his arms and placing his right hand to a spot low on her stomach. “Because even though you’re pretty miserable right now, and I can’t really do much, we’re still having a baby, you know?” Saying the words makes him chuckle, marvelled by how insane that very fact is. “Like, there’s going to be a tiny half-you half-me keeping us awake at night in a few months, and we’re going to get to order Harry Potter onesies and make our boring storage room into a dope nursery and we’re going to be parents”, he whispers.

“We’re really going to be parents”, she agrees in a hushed voice, wiping a few tears away and placing her left hand over is. “That’s so crazy.”

“I bet our baby will be the cutest in the world.”

“Oh, definitely. They’re already adorable and they only just lost their tail.”

“And they’ll be strong and brave and intelligent and all those things too, because obviously they’re going to be more than pretty.”

“Obviously.”

They lie there for a while, eyes closed and breathing in sync.

“You know”, Amy eventually breaks the silence. “I’m just saying - this is probably one of the hottest things you’ve ever done.”

“I was hoping you’d say that.”

“Maybe I could call in sick tomorrow”, she mumbles before kissing him, letting her hands wander.

Success.