#I know it’s stupid to put a message to Dan in here but please understand that I know that 💀🥲

[howlsmovingmind]

I am a huge Dan Howell fan. Really just a huge Phannie in general. Have been for at least 8 or 9 years. So, naturally, when Dan came out with “We’re All Doomed” I bought tickets to the first online showing. With the Dan Q&A after and everything. Not a brag at all, but just to give context.

The first time I saw it, I laughed so hard, I could feel myself become faint. By the end, I was sobbing. And I was just wishing I could buy it in DVD or something.

Today, for the first time since it was released, I rewatched “We’re All Doomed” on YouTube.

I have, “Embrace the void and have the courage to exist.” Written on the side of my converse. I am a dork and a half about these two.

I have the potential to live to my 80s or die before I’m 21 because of my cancer. And that can be extremely discouraging some days when I know I need to do things and be a human. Because, If I’m likely to die so young, why do anything at all?

But Dan said something that we all need to hear when we feel like that- for any reason.

“We may all be doomed. Death may be inevitable. But first, we get to live.”

I often forget that before I die, I get to live.

There are things worth fighting for and worth living for. Relationships, education, careers, or really even just the planet itself. Life is a miraculous thing and we are surrounded by it.

Life is worth living. Every single day is worth embracing and enjoying to the fullest. Some days you can’t get out of bed, and you can still enjoy that day to the fullest.

Being sick can make it hard to live before you die. But everyday is worth embracing for what it is.

I doubt Dan will ever see this, but if he ever did, somehow, miraculously, I would want to say:

Thank you, Dan, for reminding us of these things. And thank you for making my childhood as bearable as it was- even through my first bought of cancer treatment. I, at 14, would rewatch your old videos and watch the Undertale play through just to remember that friendships are worth staying alive for and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel if I only kept trying. So, yeah. Thanks for reminding me that life is worth living, even when you yourself felt it maybe wasn’t.

Forever a phannie, finding the courage to exist,

Howl

[bloodyhell-lucifer]

Daddy is the devil | Lucifer Morningstar

Pairing: Lucifer Morningstar x fem!reader

Summary: Reader is one of Chloe’s best friends and they haven't seen each other for a long time so the decision was made. Finally a sleepover at Chloe’s house since Chloe has a day off of work and Dan took Trixie with him to have some dad-daughter time. What they didn't know is that Lucifer will come with unexpected visit and reader’s shirt will cause such a mess.

Warning: language, smut, unprotected sex (wrap it before you tap it), praise kink, daddy kink, +18

Based on this request: Hello, I hope you are doing well, I would like to politely request a one shot (or more if it inspires you, you do you) from Lucifer, you can do whatever you want with it, reader insert, oc, smut, no smut, totally up to you but I would like it to involve Lucifer meeting/seeing the reader/character (preferably female, gender neutral is also fine) wearing that crop top from Blackcraft that says “Satan Is My Daddy” please and thank you

Notes:

Thank you so much for this request sweet anon! I couldn’t wait to write it down because this idea was so cool.

To be honest it’s my first real one request so I’m pretty excited and also this is my first smut so I’m not so proud about it. I think I don’t know how to write them. Someone teach me?

If there are some mistakes let me know because English isn’t my first language so as soon as possible I’ll correct it.

If you would like to send me a message, ask me about something or send me a request about imagine then the link is in my bio so feel free to message me! I would like to know you better and read your ideas and write them down😄

If you guys like my shitty writings you can follow me for more. I’ll be posting new things sooner than you think and thanks for so much activity under my posts and all the follows, it means a lot and I love u so so much xx

You and Chloe had everything planned for tonight. When you were talking on the phone to discuss the details you decided to have a movie night with some alcohol. You bought some wine, chips and sweets for you and your friend to have some snacks. Feeling of excitement was huge about finally seeing your friend after such a long time. You showed up at Chloe’s door about seven pm ringing a bell to her door. After few seconds the door were open and Chloe lean out from behind of it.

“Oh my god hi girl, so good to finally see you.” she enveloped you in a big hug wrapping her hands around your neck.

“Hi Chloe, long time no see.” you hugged her back. With a gesture of her hand she invited you inside and you stepped in.

After two hours you two were slightly drunk and making fun comments over character that was on the screen of tv during the movie.

“So tell me Chloe, some time ago you were taking to me on the phone about that guy you were working with that just have some attitude and always have something to tell and joke about. What was his name again? Lucian?” You asked her taking other sip from glass of wine.

“Lucifer to be exact. His name is Lucifer.” on her face appeared frown and she raised her brows. “Why you asking?”

“Just asking. You like him?” Hint of concern could be felt coming from your lips.

“Of course I like him. I work with him. He’s my partner.” she responded and nervously began to rub her hands against her thighs.

“You know that’s not what I meant. Is he that handsome that it’s bothering you?” you got up from the couch and headed to the kitchen to pour yourself another glass of wine since you finished the last one.

“Please stop. He’s definitely not my type. He’s arrogant, has got a big ego and always have that stupid smile on his face every time we go somewhere.” She folded her arms over her chest and rolled her eyes.

“Oh I hope I’ll meet him someday. I want to know who’s working with my best friend.” you winked at her and laughed along Chloe.

“Some day for sure.” Chloe was praying that this whole Lucifer topic will end with that. “Tell me you have someone?” She tried to change the topic of that conversation.

“Of course not. Some time ago I had a date with this guy named Brian but it didn’t go well and I lost hope for finding someone.” You said going back to couch and putting your glass on the coffee table that was in front of you. “Listen I’m gonna go and change because this jeans are so uncomfortable and I’m losing my shit with them” You grabbed your bag and went to bathroom to change. You picked your normal pjs which were just crop top with caption ‘Satan is my daddy’ on it and black bottoms.

“Oh Jesus Y/N what a shirt” Chloe blurted as soon as she saw you.

“It’s just a crop top Chloe. Can you just chill? We are already drinking a second bottle of wine and you still seem so stressed about something.” You declared after seeing her sitting so tense. One of the movies you’ve chosen was still playing in the room and none of you was watching it so Chloe switched it to music channel.

“Y/N I’m so sorry. I know I screwed this up. I’ve been stressed about work and Trixie and I don’t know what to do. I hoped I will invite you, we will have fun together after long time and this feelings would go away, but I guess it doesn’t go away and I can’t have fun. I messed up” she sighed and got up from the couch to just stand in front of you having her hands on your shoulder.

“We’re all humans after all, Chloe. I get it and I understand. You don’t have to worry. We can talk about it if you want and we still have time to make it fun. Go get change into your pj’s and and I’m expecting you turning back with a smile on your face.” You smirked to her and went up to set new snacks on coffee table.

When Chloe returned she didn’t have time to say anything because the bell from the door rang immediately.

“Did you invite anyone else?” You asked curiously.

“Of course not. Just you and me. No one else.” She added going to the door to check who was that. You were just standing right behind her.

She opened the door and Chloe saw the the last person she wanted to see today.

“What are you doing here?” She hissed and it was obvious that she didn’t want that person’s presence. You still couldn’t see who that person was.

“Oh don’t be so rude detective. I was in the neighbourhood and I thought that I’ll stop by with a visit.” You heard men’s strong deep voice with a British accent.

Chloe was so tired of this. She didn’t have strength to fight with that man and let him in and then you saw him. The man was a lot taller than you, shit he towered over you. You were so shock seeing that handsome man that you though that you were having a hallucinations seeing a Greek god. He had pitch black hair with little stubble. His hazel brown eyes were twisting into yours like he wanted to see every inch of your soul. Of course his devilish smile was there too to give him another hundred points to looking too fuckin’ good. He was dressed in fancy black suit and black button up that hugs his body so perfectly. You could see from distance that under all that suit he must be having a nice, trained body. Is that legal to look that handsome? You though to yourself.

“Bloody hell detective, I didn’t know you were having a company.” He sent you an evil grin and came into your way. Chloe stood there and she was about to say something when that man spoke to you.

“Hi, my name is Lucifer. Lucifer Morningstar.” He stepped closer to you and took your hand in his. He kissed the top of your hand.

“Like the devil?” You asked and you didn’t know if to laugh or to start panicking.

“Don’t bring my dad into this darlin’. Yeah, like the devil.” He still was having that smirk that could knock you off of your feet by any second. “And you are?”

“I’m Y/N” you gulped suddenly feeling naked under Lucifer’s gaze.

“Oh that’s a real beautiful one” he responded and lean in just to be few centimetres away from your figure. He took one of strands of your hair and put them behind your ear whispering to you. “I really like your shirt baby.”

You wanted to say something, anything but you just couldn’t. You didn’t want to believe that is was that guy Lucifer that you were asking Chloe about.

“Okey enough, Lucifer. Leave Y/N alone. What do you want?” Chloe closed the door behind him and asked Lucifer with frown on her face and furrowed brows. She had her hands on her hips and she really looked like she was not in the mood for such things.

“I said loud and clear I came just to check on you, but now as I see your friend I might want something.” He chuckled and looked at you again. You were so intimidated by his presence that you were looking down at the floor in that moment with blush creeping onto your cheeks.

“Can you stop being the perv that you actually are? If you don’t stop you’ll have to leave.” She urged staying in the hallway. Chloe really was pissed off.

“Okey dokey.” Lucifer raised his hands up in a gesture of surrender and he stepped back from you and went to the living room and you and Chloe follow along.

“Okey ladies, let’s start the night properly” Lucifer loud voice echoed through the room and you already had known that you gonna regret it later.

Chloe told you and Lucifer that she had enough of drinking and that’s it. She was not the one to convince so you and Lucifer were left to the alcohol that still was in the house. After another two bottles of wine and another two hours later in the night Chloe’s phone started buzzing and within moments she went to grab it and answered the call leaving the room. You knew you two were pretty drunk but you could still manage with yourself. Lucifer on the other hand after that two hours ended up with his shirt half unbuttoned and messed up hair after you challenged him to do so. You couldn’t get your eyes off of him sitting like that with his legs spread out and your whole body was screaming to straddle his lap. You though you were going to drool yourself at sight of his muscular torso. You felt pretty damn wet in your panties after sights like this.

“Guys I’m leaving for now. I’ll be right back but Dan called me saying that Trixie is burning up and probably having a fever. I’m going to pick her up. I have already ordered a taxi. Please don’t do something stupid. Y/N, I’m counting on you” Chloe shouted to you putting on her shoes, already changed and slumming her front door shut.

“Guess we have some time alone sweetheart.” Black-haired man said to you turning his head towards you. He put one of his massive hands on your thigh and you sighed after his touch touching your sensitive skin. Your knees were touching and you felt shiver running down your spine. His face was millimetres away from yours. The pad of his thumb running across your bottom lip making you tremble. Your breath hitched as Lucifer smirked at you.

“What do you say baby girl? I know you want me.” He seductively admitted. His deep voice echoing through your years. You felt like you were in trance. Thoughts and consequences be damned, you wanted him more than you’d ever wanted anything, and fuck anything that was in your way.

His thumb moving away from your lips as he was leaning in closer to you. His lips ghosting over yours. His hands cupped your face with his two hands caressing your cheeks. Both of you starred at each other. Your eyes fluttered closed as Lucifer laid his lips on yours. He kissed you passionately, your lips moving in sync. Lucifer’s eyes fluttering closed as well. He grabbed a hold of your hair pulling at them causing a moan felt from your lips as the kiss began to got deeper and needer. You decided to make a move and straddle his lap. His fingers moved from your jaw to your hips digging into them harshly. Your fingers quickly unbuttoned the rest of the buttons on his shirt. Your hands didn’t waste time to trail down his muscular torso what made him groan into the kiss. You broke the kiss first moving your head down towards his exposed chest, pressing your lips against it. You trailed wet, sloppy kisses down his chest, then down towards his stomach. Stopping above the waistline of his pants. Lucifer smirked down at you, as you got on your knees. Looking up at him, as you undid the button of his pants, then unzipped the zip pulling his pants down, as well as his boxers, you freed his growing bulge. Lucifer let out a hiss, as his cock sprang up, while you bit your lip. You stared at his big cock in awe making your way back to the couch to sit next to him.

“You like what you see baby girl? Would you like daddy’s cock in your tight, little pussy of yours? He asked grabbing a firm hold of your jaw making you look him straight into his eyes.

“Hell yes, please daddy” you said arching your back to get some friction from your actions.

Lucifer lowered you to the mattress, your back met the rough material of the living room’s couch. It felt so inviting, so intimidating. You wanted that so badly, your entire body screamed for pleasure. You felt air leave your lungs because of the handsome man has begun to kiss your neck. Your chest were heaving, you raised a hand to the base of his neck and held him there as he sucked strong marks onto your skin. Little moan left you, while your body began to surrender to him.

“You’ll be in hell soon darlin’. Sorry baby but this shirt needs to get out with rest of your clothes but it’s so beautiful and welcoming.” He quickly made you get rid of your clothes quickly. When Lucifer bended down while still keeping his brown eyes locked with yours his tongue swiped a lick atop your breast, then immediately took your stiffened tit in his mouth to suck. His other hand worked on massaging your other breast and you forgot about everything around you and let your body take over as your mouth produced another groan. That’s when he decided to pull your nipple lightly in between his teeth.

“Oh, fuck,” you exhaled the curse in ecstasy.

“Naughty girl aren’t you.” Lucifer grinned, but his tone suggested he’s aroused with your language. His hand ran down the plane of your stomach and slipped down to feel your pulsing desire. You could see it in his eyes how pleased he is at the amount of slickness he felt coating his fingers. He toyed with your clit in deliberately slow circles, and you whined at his touch while moving your hips to receive more stimulation. But Lucifer’s fingers went on to explore further inside you, and you couldn’t hold back the gasp that left your lips as he began to stretch you. He bended down again so that his face is above yours, cologne so strong yet soothing. Lucifer’s kisses were hot and needy. His tongue made a reappearance and became acquainted with yours. Your next gasp bled into a groan into his mouth when he added another finger.

“Yeah, please daddy, I want your cock so bad inside me.” you practically begged.

His fingers may be removed from your sopping heat, but in their place, Lucifer’s bending cock slided between your legs to coat it with your wet pussy. Dark haired man finally entered you. Your back lifted off the bed as you let out a lust-filled cry. It was a tight and delicious fit with your muscles constricting around his eager girth. The man’s lips twisted up at the sound and creates his own unbridled groan.

“Spread your legs wide, babydoll. Take the devil all in.” He was so big you didn’t even know how you can adjust, but your body found a way to relax enough for Lucifer to slide in deeper.

Your eyes squeezed shut at how he stretched you fully, but your voice begged him to move, to give you more. He went on to create a steady rhythm with his hips and all with that filthy comments on how tight and perfect you felt around him. You made another desperate noise as you continue your ascent, which prompts him to ask between grunts, “Speak, love. What do you need from daddy?”

“Your big hands with your fingers daddy” you somehow told with filling voice your need amidst your hedonistic sounds.

“It’s going to the direction I didn’t know it’s going” Lucifer laughed with devilish smirk upon his face.

It was what you need after all, the extra stimulation to bring you closer and closer to what could be the strongest orgasm of your life. In a series of ‘yes’s and curses, you reached another plane of existence. Flashes of white light grew behind your eyes while your mouth widened. Lucifer, in turn, exhaled a shaky and pleasurable moan as your body repeatedly constricted and pulled around his cock.

“Oh shit, doll, just right there.” He came inside you, hot and fast, and you feel the descent of your high flow through you. Every part of you was warm and exhilarated and thoroughly pleased. When Lucifer pulled out from you, he rolled over back onto the couch. His grin read that his own desires have been fulfilled. You knew you got yourself into a deep shit and there’s no way going back.

[xxwritemeastoryxx]

As an alternative 😊

Bottled Emotions

Author: xxwritemeastoryxx

Paring: Lizzie Saltzman x Male!Reader

Word count: 1499 (Ya'll don't know how hard it was to keep this under 1.5 K!)

Warnings: Teenage love drama, but that's it in this one.

Author's note: So I'm gonna kill two birds with one stone on this one. This was a part of my 1500 follower celebration drabble challenge that is completely late, but finally done. I used mostly the words from the gif and the fact that it is Lizzie. But besides that I changed everything and went with it. And I'm gonna use this one for @hellotvshowtrash #happy2021promptchallenge. I honestly felt that the prompt fit well for this one and I wasn't going to miss out on the opportunity to use it. Also! This is my first time writing for Lizzie! As well as the first time I'm putting out a male insert. So feedback would be great! Thanks!

Feedback gives me life and motivation for future things!

Broken glass littered the floor of the Kitchen. Pots and pans had been tossed about out of anger. Wooden spoons had been broken in half with the sharp ends embedded into the walls and shelves around the kitchen. Magic being used to take items from the shelves that they belonged on and sending them in different directions.

Lizzie had been holding her emotions in a tightly closed bottle until they had been shaken up, causing the lid to burst. The anger she felt had been finally released through magic. The mess that currently surrounded her had been a release. One she had desperately needed.

The pain of her childhood best friend turning his back on her. The trust she had felt towards him was shattered. The love and care she felt towards him were clouded by the anger and frustration she felt. Her heart hurt in ways she never thought she’d understand.

He had left in her time of need when he had made every promise to be there by her side. At first, he had been gone a few days and she believed he’d be back. Lizzie must have called Y/N a million times over the course of the last month. Her mindset was breaking and she needed his calming words to ease her. But he never answered. Those few days soon turned into a month.

Locator spells hadn’t worked, meaning the witch had blocked himself from being found. She refused to believe that he would just cut her off like that. Not when they had been so close. Not when he was someone she went to besides her sister.

What finally broke her was when Y/N returned to the school, he hadn’t gone in search of her. And when Lizzie’s eyes landed on him, Y/N had been with another crowd of witches. One’s that Lizzie didn’t particularly like.

It was when their eyes met, that Y/N could see the hurt in Lizzie’s eyes. And the moment it had, Lizzie took off in the direction of the kitchen, not wanting to even get answers from Y/N. She needed an outlet and she was going to get it.

When Y/N finally made his way over to the kitchen, the sounds of glass breaking and even the sounds of pots and pans clattering hadn’t phased him. Even when he stepped into view of Lizzie, he wasn’t the slightest bit surprised. If anything, guilt flooded through him.

Just as the last few items in Lizzie’s way had been tossed about the room, her eyes landed on Y/N. Her lip trembled as she watched him walk over to the counter farthest from her and placed his hands on it. She watched as his eyes took in the aftermath of her break down and not for a single moment did she feel bad about it.

“You’re-” He had begun to say.

“I already know I’m crazy, okay?” Lizzie said cutting Y/N off as she turned away from him and ran her hand through her blonde locks. “You don’t have to say anything. You ignoring me for the last month or so says it all.”

A slight frown formed on Y/N’s lips at her words. Taking a step around the counter, he could hear the crunch of glass beneath his feet. “I wasn’t going to say that you were crazy.” He said as he watched her movements. “I was going to say that you’re hurt. And I’m pretty sure it has to do with me leaving.”

“Thank you, Captain Obvious.” Lizzie moved her hand up to her cheek to wipe away the set of tears that were running down her face. “Your message was loud and clear, Y/N. You don’t want anything to do with me. So why are you here?”

“I know it seemed that way, but I’m sure you know that wasn’t the case.” He tried to explain. Y/N knew how bad this looked. He took off without telling his best friend where he was going. And when he left her messages and calls unanswered, he could already see what was going through the witch’s mind.

That was his gift, an invasive one at that. The closer Y/N had become with someone, the more he became in tune with their thoughts. While he had never purposefully used it to get into his friends minds, there were always those moments that it happened accidentally. A simple thought of his own could easily link his mind to another without them ever knowing. And the last time he had done so, it led to Lizzie revealing a lot of thoughts that he was never meant to hear.

“Then please do explain what it was.” She asked as she took a few steps closer to him. “What made you want to run as far away as you could from me that you felt the need to shut me out?”

He ran his hand along the back of his neck, trying to find the right way to tell her. To tell her that he had heard everything he wasn’t supposed to. That he left because he believed it was what she wanted in the first place. That he did it to give her the space she wanted and needed.

“You wanted me to leave.” He said after a moment. “I hadn’t meant to, but your thoughts were pretty clear that you wanted me gone from the school. From my understanding it was that you hated me enough that you’d rather deal with a golem than see my face around.”

He watched as confusion formed on her face for a moment before realization had set in. Her head hung for a moment as she tried to process her thoughts. It made sense as to why Y/N had left so suddenly. She had been angry with him and her train of thoughts went haywire in the process.

“I was angry.” She said with a shake of her head. “I didn’t expect to feel that way with you of all people and I was just-” She cut herself off trying to collect herself. Lizzie had been angry with him for plenty of reasons. But she had thought she hated him for other reasons than a stupid fight they had. “I never hated you,” She said after a moment passed. “you just make me feel things that I don’t understand. And then I saw you talking with the she-devil and I just needed a reason to hate you to stop myself from hurting.”

“And now look where that’s gotten us.” He shook his head as he kept his eyes on her. Her eyes met his at that moment and it wasn’t hard to see the hurt that was clear in each others’. “You could have just talked to me. I get that it was never something I was supposed to know. But it felt like an overheard conversation that I just couldn’t ignore. I even went to talk to you about it, but you couldn’t even look at me. So I knew it wasn’t worth it to stick around.”

“But you came back.” She noted, her words hopeful. “There must have been something that made you do that.”

He nodded his head and finally pulled his eyes away from her. “Your dad asked for a favor from my parents. I agreed to come back with them to help. Once we are done, we’re headed back home.”

The hope that Lizzie had felt moments before had diminished instantly at his words. While there was finality in his voice, she hoped that maybe she could change his mind. “Stay, even after your parents leave.”

Y/N would have instantly agreed any other time. He felt deeply for the girl that stood before him. But the hurt he felt at her thoughts had hurt him in a way that Y/N had never been hurt before, especially coming from her.

“We’re here for a month.” He began. “Maybe by then you can get those feelings of yours sorted. But I won’t be one of those guys, Lizzie.” He said watching her reactions. “There’s only so much I can take before it’s enough.”

Lizzie went to take a step closer to him, her mouth opened to say something, but he raised his hand and shook his head. He wanted her to really think about it. Not to just say what she believed he wanted to hear. And if it wasn’t for that ability of his, that’s exactly what she would have done. She was still unsure of a few things and he knew that.

"Really think about it." He said as he began taking a few steps back before turning to leave.

Lizzie stood there and watched him leave, her lips trembling knowing that if she didn’t get the mess within her head sorted, she was going to lose the only other person that had been by her side for the longest.

Always and Forever Tags:

@taylordrunkonwhiskey @thewolf-and-thesheep @wayward-dan @neeadinghugs @fafulous @kenmen02 @elizamonet @dora-the-grownup @mschellehitt @xanderling @fandom-princess-forevermore @buckysarm4 @hi-my-name-is-riley @helenasingers @alka16555 @hellotvshowtrash @dpaccione @dumble-daddy

If you would like to be added to the taglist, or taken off of it you can do so here!

[zmayadw]

Hello :) 

It’s time for the next part :)

Thanks again to all who read it so far!

CALL OF THE RAVEN

PART 3

I woke up with the sun already out, making my eyes adjust to the light again. I checked the clock above doors. 9.45. Huh, nice, I tought, the nurse didnt lie when she said the pain meds would make me sleep better. I felt more rested today, but still pretty sore. I managed to get up and go to bathroom. I looked myself in the mirror -I looked like hell. I hoped Jessy would come today with my stuff, I needed some fixing up urgently. As I was leaving the bathroom, my phone beeped with new message. My heart jumped with excitement,only to see it was Jessy. „Hey hey, sleeping beauty, im sorry, you will have to manage without my awesomness today, but dont worry, i'm sending the next best person to keep you company! ;D Call you later ,kisses!“ I smiled as I layed back to bed. That sweet nurse from before entered my room smiling. „Good morning, hun, hope you slept well“. „I sure did, thanks.“ I replied, while she settled the food tray with breakfast on the stand. She helped me make myself comfortable in bed, and putted the tray in front of me, when a voice came from the door. „Doris! My favorite nurs!“ It was Dan, and Doris chuckled as Dan came over to the bed. „Oh my, hun, if I knew who your friend was, I would have brought you something stronger then this tea“ I laughed, while Dan made a gesture with his hands, stabing at his heart. „Awww, c'mon Doris, dont be so cruel, you know you like me!“ Doris just waved her head as she went for the door. „If this schmuck starts to bother you too much, you just yell hun.“  I smiled at her „Thanks Doris, I might just do that.“  Dan looked at me. „Is that a 'thank you' I get for coming here?“ he siad, being dramatic as Dans always is. I grinned „Ofcourse not! But its entertaining to see you all squirmy.“ „Tsk,tsk, sure, pick on poor Dan.“ He grabed a chair and sat next to the bed. „You look like shit, Maya.“  „Gee, thanks Dan, thats really what I wanted to hear.“ I said, even tho I knew he was right, I did look awful. „Hey, dont get mad at me, I just say it as it is! Luckily, Dan is here to the rescue..again.“ he said handing me my backpack. „ Jessy went through your stuff, and filled your pack with what she tought you might need the most. She said to text her later if theres anything else you need so she can bring it.“ „Thanks Dan.“ I said taking the backpack from him. „And I mean thanks, not just for this.“ Dan looked at me, and I could read a bit of worry on his face. He quickly tried to hide it „Hey, no need to thank me, I told you once before, if theres a damsel in distress, im here to help.“ „Damsel“ I snorted. „Doubt that a damsel would act so stupid as I did.“ I felt that awfull feeling of guilt taking over me again. „Look Maya, i'm really not the one to judge you here. Yes, what you did was Incredibly stupid, and lets be honest, you almost got yourself killed. When Lily called me and told me everything, I was so pissed at both of you, well you mostly, but also kinda excited that someone actualy took the matter into its own hands.“ I looked at him with awe, I didnt quite expect it. He continued „And frankly, I kinda expected something like this from you sooner or later, well at least the part of you coming to Duskwood. As I was running to my car, calling Thomas and filing him in on everything,I got really angry at you for not turning to me for help. You know I would help you no matter what, I told you that hundred of times before.“  „Yes Dan, I know you would.“ I said, even more of that guilt creeping in. „But you didnt! Then I tought, maybe afterall you didnt trust me enough as you said.“ „I did trust you, I do trust you Dan, you have to know that.“ Now even tears started forming in my eyes. „I know, Maya, its just how I felt at the time. And when I got to the mine, Thomas was already there, with this cop who was close by and responded to the call since I told Lily to inform that inspector guy. He said we should wait for backup, but stuborn as I am, I just rushed in, Thomas yelling after me, but I just kept running. Good thing they went after me, because God only knows what would happen if they didnt.“ I couldnt keep the tears anymore, and I just burst out crying. Dan got up from his chair, sat next to me on the bed, hugging me. „ As I said im not here to judge you, or make you fell more guilty. Heck, I might have done the same thing, or something worse. Things wer starting to get us really nowhere, and something happening was kinda of a kickoff for me. And im not mad at you any more Maya, just to get that out in the opet.“ „Thanks Dan, I really appriciate it.“ I barely managed through my tears. „Yeah,yeah, im awesom, I know.“ He grined at me, as i looked him with eyes full of tears. He huged me a bit tighter, and I rested my head on his shoulder. „You got me really freaking scared there in that mine, Maya. When I saw you like that..“ he paused.  „I cant say how much im sorry about all, Dan. I did more harm then good, and I betrayed all of you guys again.“ „Well, at the end, you did find Hannah, so im sure Thomas wont have that much of a grudge.“ He grined at me, handing me a tissue, wich made me relax a bit. „Yes I did. And how are our little love birds doing?“ i asked wiping the tears, as Dan moved back to the chair. „Oh, theyr fine. Thomas is not letting Hannah alone for one milisecond, wich is a bit too wooshy mooshy if you ask me.“ He mad a face of gaging. „Oh, c'mon mister tough guy, that picture Jessy sent me of you two from last night was quite mooswhy wooshy in my eyes.“ I said teasingly. „If you ever say that to anyone about me, and I mean ANYONE, i swear Maya...“ I didnt let him finish, I just grined „Dont worry, your mooshy wooshy secret is safe with me.“ „Good, good. So when are they letting you go from this shit hole?“ „Oh, come on, its not that terrible here: food is not bad, room is nice and quiet, and I have a killer wiev, what's the hurry?“ „I promised you some whiskey.“ he grined „And Jessy wont let me drink, but when you get out she wont be abel to say no.“ „ You really ARE scared of Jessy.“ I said laughing. „She might be small, but the woman is a dynamite when serious!“ I laughed so hard, the tea I just sipped when out through my nose. „Thanks Dan, I needed this.“ „Dan to the rescue.“ He smiled and winked. „Sooo...“ he starte, and I got a feeling I knew what he gonna ask me. „Did the 'hackerboy' contaced you by now?“ „His name is Jake, could you please not call him that anymore.“ I said a bit too stern maybe. „All right, all right, no need to get all serious on me now. Did 'Jake' contacted you?“  I hesitated for a brief moment before answering „No, nothing yet. And to be honest, might be better like that. I myself am not too eager for that talk .“ „Heh, I can understand that. If I was that much pissed at you back then, I dont want to imagine how much 'hac..' , sorry, Jake is pissed at you right now.“  „Well, I guess I will find out soon enough..if he still wants to talk to me at all.“  Dan putted on his serious face, but with a little grin on it „Hey, if he talks bad to you, let me know, i'll show him off!“ „Ohh, im sure you would enjoy that..maybe even to much.“ I said, him grinning even more. „But thanks, Dan, again, for everything.“ „Yeah,yeah, dont you get all wooshy mooshy on me now also.“ he said, getting up. „Well, I gotta go. You get better soon, and call if you need anything.“  „Thanks, Dan, sure will.“ I replied, and waved him goodby. Doris came shortly after Dan left, and got me off the IV, suggesting I take a shower. I grabbed the pack Jessy sent me, and went through it. I took out some underweare, clean shirt and sweatpants, grabbed the shampoons, tooth brush and paste and headed for the bathroom. The shower did feel nice, but it took me ages to finish it, since I was still quite sore. A big bruise at my ribs was still making me short breathed at the times, and all the other cuts and bruises didnt help with easing the pain either. I had a  cut on the back of my head, wich was the reason my head still throbed a lot. I brushed my teeth, looked myself in the mirror, and already could notice some color coming back to my cheeks. I got back to bed and took my phone, might aswell check those messages and emails, its not like I'm have anything smarter to do. Most emails wer not important, I answered a few I needed, and switched to messages. Most of missed calls and messages wer from the night of the incident, so not much replaying needed here. Cleo sent a message saying shes happy im ok, and she will come to visit soon. Thomas also sent a message, thanking me for everything, emphasising tho that I was reckles and how all could have ended differently, but still no grudges from his side. He was just too happy Hannah was back with him. Ofcourse, they all wished me to get well soon, and they cant wait for when I get out so we can all meet properly.I replied to both, thanking them for good wishess. Staring at my chats screen, I opened my conversation with Jake. He was offline, ofcourse. I stared at the blinking pointer on the text space, but I didnt know what to write. My head was blank, I couldnt think of anything. After few minutes I exited the chat, settling the phone aside, and turning the tv on. Maybe some movie or something will get me relaxed a bit. I switched through channels, till I found something acceptable to watch. I ajusted myself on the pillow, and before I knew, dozed off.

[wouldduskwood]

Jake's POV Descendants of Despair Part 59

Though having a purpose helped to distract me from what could have been, I still could not shake the mixture of feelings. The fact that she loved me so much she would commit herself to me, it was something I never really imagined would happen. Especially not with someone that genuinely loved and trusted me. I didn't deserve her. I wanted to be strong enough to leave her, before I hurt her. I was making myself miserable with it. I forced myself to focus on what we were doing, temporarily forget what had happened, but it was tough.

Finally, I was drawn into the nuances of human behaviour. As I read, the lies, the deceit..it was no wonder she had never trusted anyone. They all had a hidden agenda. Usually it was for an entirely selfish reason. Where MC and I had both been selfish in ways, they had usually been either for survival or to protect each other. The selfishness I saw on these websites were all purely to protect the self from their own lies and betrayals. So many people cheating on the people they supposedly loved. When I considered my relationship with MC, there was no way in hell I could see myself ever wanting anyone else. I knew she felt the same. It was inconceivable to me that this many people thought it was okay to have sex with whomever they pleased.

“Jake...uh...I’m glad you’re not a real boy...if being a real boy means this shit.” She sighed as she indicated the screen. “I’m not sure we are going to be able to pull this off too well. I won’t be able to see her reaction to things so won’t be able to know whether she is lying or shielding things and you won’t be able to tell me what your thoughts are. I think our best bet is going to have to be to make the meeting as short and to the point as possible.”

I nodded, both perplexed and horrified at what I was reading on the screen. “I guess this is one reason I am glad I went into hacking...the other people that are hacking as well all know that we are hiding stuff and very likely lying to each other. It’s like an unwritten social code. But this…” I groaned, indicating the screen with disgust. “We may have to do this soon so I don’t have too much time to freak out.”

“How quickly can you get an earpiece sorted?” She asked. My mind quickly drifted to the pieces I already had. I was relatively sure I had everything I'd need. “That won’t take long, I think I can piece one together myself. Can you sort out a meeting. Uh...I’m not sure where to take her that doesn’t look like a murder house.” I replied hesitantly and was somewhat taken aback when she giggled in response. “It’s nothing, just you didn’t mind giving Dan the illusion of a murder house, taking him to the abandoned warehouse,” She grinned. “Dan needed a good dose of fear,” I snickered. It was unfortunate that the surroundings hadn't seemed to get through to him. I'd have to try harder next time. “Can you sort a place? I trust you to find somewhere that won’t terrify her or out me.” I suggested.

I began to work, examining the small pieces I had as well as the tech that I could connect remotely to it. As I worked, I glanced at her every now and then. “Wait...I’m thinking about this all wrong,” She stated, breaking the silence and causing me to pause in my work. “I was thinking of a building that would give the illusion of comfort for Lilly and security for us, but I realised that is just stupid. What about the lake in Duskwood. We take an offshoot away from the main area and wait there. There won’t be cameras and it’s highly unlikely anyone will be around.”

“Hm, as long as we stay away from the forest, although if we go near it we could possibly run into the man without the face and then we may get a chance to end it once and for all.” I grinned, then forced myself to stop. Knowing her, somehow the man without a face would track her down and I'd be stuck with Lilly somewhere else. There was no way I should have been joking about it. “You’re right, that’s probably the most comforting place for Lilly. If we leave quickly we won’t be too likely to strike anyone else. Can you set it up?”

She grabbed her phone and as she looked for Lilly's contact, I quickly pulled up the mirror of her phone and Lilly's on my screen.

Lilly

MC: Hey Lilly

Lilly is online

Lilly: OMG where have you been?

MC: Something happened so I had to leave where I was staying, but I’m good now.

Lilly: Really? Is there something that you aren’t telling me MC?

I wondered briefly how she would tackle this. Would she tell Lilly the truth? Would she talk about me? Would she mention her love? Logically I knew that it was much safer if she was vague, but still I couldn't help but hope.

MC: Yes actually, Jake has asked me to set up a meeting with you. He was a bit nervous reaching out himself in case you refused.

Lilly: OMG really, he wants to meet up? Oh I’m so nervous!

MC: Listen, it won’t be a long meeting, you know how his life is. Just don’t get too excited for something he may not be able to provide for you.

Lilly: OH yes I do understand but still...I’m going to meet my big brother!

MC: I will contact you soon with timing, but it will be at Duskwood lake. Can you find a private area somewhere around there and then give Jake the coordinates or let him track you?

Lilly: Yes I think I know a place. I’ll do that. I’ll be waiting by my phone!

As I watched Lilly's phone, I saw she had disconnected too. That gave me a bit more faith in my half sister. She hadn't told anyone of the impending meeting. I hoped that it would stay that way. I closed MC's screen and kept Lilly's open, just incase.

She had disconnected quickly, cutting Lilly off before she could ask anything more that might elicit too much information being shared. I turned to her with a smile. “Nicely done.” I partially expected an angry reprimand at breaching her privacy, but to my pleasure she just continued speaking. She really did want me to know her as much as I wanted her to know myself. “Sorry I lied a bit. I thought it was best that she didn’t know too much.” She murmured. I smiled. “It’s fine, you did well. I’ll have this up and running soon. Do you want to sort out some food? It’s been a while since we last ate and we should still have something in the car.” She nodded thankfully, which pleased me too. I was getting good at taking care of her...and myself in the process. Maybe I was the nurturing type.

I busied myself with the fine art of piecing together an ear piece out of bits and pieces I had pulled out from a small pouch I kept amongst my tech gear. It was a tedious process but it felt good to be doing something worthwhile. I was interrupted in my work when she carried a meal over to me. She had put a fair bit of effort into her presentation, was I was thankful for. It made the unappealing array of food somewhat more palatable. We ate in silence then I began working again while she watched. When I glanced at her, she was looking at me.

“Okay, I’m going to test this. So, I have managed to hook up a rudimentary microphone as well as the ear piece. It will transmit okay, but it may be staticky so you will need to be aware it may be hard to hear things. I should be able to hear you fine from this part here.” I said, indicating various parts of the creation. Her expression confused me. “Uh, I’m pretty sure it will work…” I mumbled, suddenly self conscious.

“You’re incredible,” She murmured, instantly wiping away my self conscious feeling and replacing it with joy. I became oddly proud of the small part I played in this. “Let’s give it a go then I’ll message Lilly. We will try and do this tomorrow!” I smiled nervously then gave her a quick kiss, attempting to refrain from pouncing on her then and there. Together we tested my equipment. I walked various distances away to test the range. It seemed pretty reliable, and it was probably the best we had anyway. “Contact Lilly. Set it up,” I mumbled into the microphone, nervous about the direction my future would take now that my half sister would be involved. Maybe she could talk some sense into me. Help me save MC from pain...

Part 60

[theinvisibledreamergirl]

Chap. 7: “Friendship questioned”

A.N: And I still hate this AU and this title because it isn’t much related to the topic 🙄

MASTERLIST 

———————————————————————

Donahue’s bar was flooded with interns and residents taking some break after their long night shifts and seemed to enjoy these minutes. The fantastic four (as Klaw would call) Elijah, Jackie, Sienna and Landry and the never-separated couple Dan and Imelda were sat together discussing about the new changes of Edenbrook Hospital that were notified yesterday.

“Could you even imagine? Doing your residency with the most elite diagnostics team in the world?!” Elijah exclaimed.

“Never in my life would’ve thought of this dream.” Landry sighed in a wandered gaze.

“Screw you. This is totally obvious that I am going to be the winner of it.” Jackie put down the shot of tequila raising her eyebrows.

“Someone looks very confident.” Dan replied with a smirk.

“Of course I am not even you scalpel jockeys can stand us.”

“Seriously why didn’t you two sign up for this? Even the surgeons could be part of the fellowship.” Sienna asked.

Imy let a sigh. “Yeah we know but I don’t think we could waste our precious free time plus diagnosing the patients. Scalpel is enough for us. Right sweetie?

Dan kissed the back of her hand gently. “Of course love.”

“Aww you are so cute.”

“Yuck get a room you two already. It’s getting enough disgust in here.” Jackie admitted and everyone shared a laugh.

“What about Klaw? Do you know if she has signed up?” Landry asked curiously. She had mentioned before that she wanted to work with Ethan Ramsey closely and he was also felt in debt for saving his life from that man Miles in their first day of work.

“Hm. I don’t know but I think she had. She would never miss this rare opportunity.” Everyone nodded in agreement.

“Well you’re wrong.” A voice made them to turn their gazes to the tired and not so amused face of Klaw with Bryce accompanying her.

“What?!” Everyone said in unison shocked except from Jackie who snorted.

“See? I told you scalpels cannot handle the diagnosis!”

“You either are stupid for real or you have a reason that you didn’t want this.” Eiljah admitted and a sudden wave of relief was seen in Landry’s face in which Dan noticed it.

“But Klaw... why did you change your mind?” Imy asked in confusion but her expression let her that something had happened and she looked at Bryce for some answers but he mouthed.

Later.

“I’m going to the bathroom I’ll... catch up with you.”

While she was nodding Bryce gave her a knowing glance in which she replied silently with a reassuring smile.

I’ll be fine.

When she made herself disappear to the corner so her friends wouldn’t see her, she texted to Reggie.

Now. We need to talk.

Thankfully he saw the message and carefully after serving the drinks to the guys he went in the same dark room where his other friend was waiting.

“What now?” He crossed his arms.

“Care to explain your friendship with Ethan Ramsey?” She arched her left eyebrow.

He let an exhale knowing that she wouldn’t forget this despite her busy schedule in hospital.

“Fine. I’ll say this quickly... Ethan and I have known each other for ten years since he came for the first time in Boston after university. He wasn’t alone though. He was with Simon and they both needed a strong drink after their first day as interns. It was also my first week in Boston and I wanted to have a good job so I bought this bar and let me tell you-” He motioned with his index finger the surroundings. “- it wasn’t like this. It was rebuilt again thanks to them who offered their money’s to help me and we’re like partners of this bar and after that Simon decided to name it ‘Donahue’.” He chuckled. “Weird name huh?”

Reggie wanted to ease the tension that was appearing in Klaw’s face but that didn’t change it.

“When were you going to tell me?”

“Klaw I seriously didn’t know you would come here. I really wanted to tell you but I just didn’t know how. Look... if you are worried about your involvement with the Mercy Park Crew I won’t tell anything to Ethan.”

“It’s not about that Reggie. I’m just upset because I thought I could trust you and the contrary. Because we’re friends right?” She hesitated at first before saying. “And about Vaug-“

“Do not try mention his name!” He glared at her giving some cold chills down her spine. She knew his anger but despite of that she wanted to try again.

“Vaughn wants to talk to you.”

“I don’t want to talk with a gangster and a criminal who left his family for his own pleasures!” He hissed. “My uncle is devastated and auntie too and I’m not going to let him to enter to our lives ever again!”

She sighed. “I know but he told me-.”

“You should go back to your friends.” He cut her off without giving a second glance.

“Reggie...”

“Go.” He said courtly. “They’ll suspect and you don’t want this, right?” She only nodded when he narrowed his eyebrows. “You go first and I’ll come after two minutes.”

Klaw did as he said. She truly wanted the two cousins to talk about their misunderstandings and solve them to be united again. But it was clearly that this would take a long time given the fact that Reggie was a hot-tempered guy even though it didn’t look from the outside to other people.

Bryce had told his friends about the tragic death of Dolores and now they could understand why Klaw didn’t want to participate in the competition. But this wasn’t the thing he worried about.

Strong arms had been looping her maybe for a couple of minutes but for her it looked like an eternity sleeping.

She blinked her eyes slowly while trying to comprehend what happened.

Oh she thought. Yes- she forgot to drink her usual pills and ran with a fake excuse to her attending to go to the locker room.

And after drinking them her body twisted in a quick motion until feeling someone calling her name.

Definitely it was a man and at first she got worried if he was the one she was thinking about.

But instead she was met with green scrubs and she could recognise that megawatt smile everywhere.

“Look who’s waken up.”

“B-Bryce?”

“Yeah scalpel jockey in the flesh.”

“What’re you doing here?” She murmured slowly.

“Uhm helping and carrying you? Because you were about to knock your head in the ground and your skull would be opened?” She giggled. He was so good at making her feel better. “Now will you tell me why’s in your locker an inhibitor bar?”

She gulped hardly trying to think of an excuse. “It’s- for calmness.”

What a great lie to say him.

“Klaw... you can trust me.” To prove it he caressed her cheek softly letting his thumb linger. Bryce Lahela had feelings for this girl like no one else and seeing her in this state- he wanted to be her saviour. “Look... I’ve seen you avoiding us in many occasions and not interacting with us at all. You refused first to play with me. Second you haven’t given any answer to Sienna about moving together and the third you’ve been pulling your leg all of this week in many surgeries just so you can’t meet us. And now this?” He shook his head. “There’s clearly something wrong with you.”

From the look of his eyes Klaw saw the sincerity and the kindness of him that never thought to come out given the fact that he was always cheerful and flirty all the time. That’s when she started to trust him and thought he wasn’t kind of manipulating person to be. But of course she couldn’t tell him the whole truth even if she wanted to.

“I...” she gulped nervously before inhaling sharply. “I suffer from PTSD Bryce.” That’s when her tears started to drop off her cheeks despite many of her attempts not to.

His grip on her tightened and pulled her in a comforting hug while she was sobbing. Bryce had never seen her in such a devastating situation because she looked strong and capable of everything but clearly this was the contrary.

“Shh... it’s alright Klaw... I’m here.”

“I’m sorry Bryce I-“

“You don’t need to apologise to me.” He frowned his eyebrows. “It’s me who should say that. I’ve asked too much for this, have I?”

“No, you moron. Of course you haven’t.” She scolded him with a slap on his arm. “You were worried about me and there’s nothing to apologise to.”

He sighed. “Does anyone else know this?”

“Only Dan and Imy.”

“Why don’t you tell the others?”

“I’m not ready Bryce I mean... I don’t want to seem like fragile and my friendship to be built because everyone feels sorry about me. And that is really disgusting.”

He laughed revealing his shining teeth. “Well they will know it one day and you won’t escape from that.”

“If you don’t tell them of course.” She jumped from his lap to head to the door. He caught her wrist.

“Whoa hold on where do you think you’re going miss? You just fainted in front of my eyes and I am going to let you go? No way.”

“I have to go back to NICU. Ethan is waiting for me.” The last words fell from her mouth unexpectedly and that’s when Bryce grinned clearly amused.

“Well well someone calls her attending by his name. Hm was he good on his office?”

She laughed loudly. “Bryce what the hell you’re saying? I was talking about Dolores Hudson’s son, Ethan.” And when her smile faded she whispered. “She died today leaving alone the little tadpole and I’m looking after him with Dr. Ramsey.”

His smile faltered too and felt in regret saying it.

Great Bryce you made her upset.

“I’m sorry Klaw. Uhm... you can go now.” He opened the door to let her go first gently but before she left he felt a kiss on his cheek and a soft voice whispering to his ear.

“Thank you for everything scalpel king.”

Not later she joined her friends who were now looking at her with concerns. Suddenly Sienna got up from her seat and hugged her tightly.

“I’m so sorry dolphin.” She whispered sweetly like she was. It was about Dolores. “Please don’t mind our reactions about your decision.”

“It’s okay Sienna. I’m fine.” Her friend assured but she made a face like she wasn’t convinced. “I really am dolphin.” She rubbed her back.

“If you say so.”

“Klaw we’re sorry too.” Elijah said. “I mean damn. That was really heartbreaking and I’m feeling goosebumps now.”

“I can’t imagine what it feels like to grieve for your first patient so sorry from me too.” Jackie said sadly.

“Guys can you please stop this emotional conversation? We have to celebrate for your competition. Right Bryce?” Klaw smiled at him.

“Hell yeah we are fucking doing it!” He stood up letting his feet up the chair to raise a toast. “We surgeons wish you medical interns a very pleasant time with grumps like Ramsey and Mirani and sweets like Delarosa and Tennant. May the best wins! Cheers!”

“Cheers!” Everyone sipped their drinks in one gulp until Ines and Zaid joined them. Ines congratulated them with a hug whereas Zaid with his glaring face to surgeons Bryce and Dan said that even if one of the interns won they wouldn’t merit that.

——————————————————————

“Ethan come on it will be just a meeting.” She pleaded to him. “It won’t kill you.”

“I said no Harper.”

“It is a great opportunity for all of us to renew the project we have with the Banner Health.”

“I still can’t believe that you want us to schmooze in all of their luxurious, idiotic and ridiculous things only for our hospital. Why didn’t you bring Simon for this? He clearly has a much better poker face than I do.”

She leaned closer to him to tie his collar. “Well I would but since the Banner Health Representatives are interested on your research then why don’t we use this opportunity? Besides even Naveen would agree on that.” She gave him a lightly kiss while caressing his broad shoulders. “Come on let’s hit ‘em before we are late.”

Harper was a such in a good mood today that asked himself if she would’ve stayed the same if she knew the real reason why Naveen gave up his position two weeks ago.

“I came up with a decision.”

“What’s wrong Naveen? You called us in such a hurry. Everything okay?” Simon asked worriedly when he saw also Ethan standing with crossed arms behind the chief clearly disapproving.

Ethan knew this and just before they would enter the diagnostics office they debated whether or not to tell everyone about his health condition that was deteriorating day by day and still none of them had arrived into a conclusion what this illness was.

“The main position of this team will be held by Dr. Ramsey.”

“What?!” The shock was evident in all of the team’s faces. Simon was eyeing to Ethan if he knew something about this but instead he was met with a shrug.

“Please doctors calm down.”

Clearly the one who couldn’t calm down herself was Dr. June Hirata who wanted nothing more than the position of the diagnostics which had worked for it ten years and seeing that the jerk doctor take it- made her blood boiled.

“But Dr. Banerji...” Dr. Baz Mirani spoke up frantically. “I’m not saying Ethan isn’t a good doctor but... may I ask why?”

“Ah Baz. I really appreciate your concern but I thought as an old man sometimes I need to rest y’know... I’ve come to an age that everything can happen and the retirement will be the best for me.”

“Are you sick?” Edgar asked in suspicion in which Ethan felt his jaw tightened and again Naveen responded with a smile.

“My dear Edgar. If I were sick I would’ve been now at one of your operation theatres right?”

“Goodness Naveen don’t even say that!” He scolded.

“Well I guess I have to congratulate you my pal.” Simon got up and pulled Ethan in a tightly hug. “I have to say that you saved me from a big responsibility so thanks a lot Naveen!” Even though he wanted to lighten up the strange moment they were experiencing his thoughts were a fog.

“Ha. Very funny Simon.”

Naveen chuckled to them. “And also I’ve told Harper that she will be the Chief of Medicine... if that’s okay to you.”

“Absolutely Naveen.” Everyone agreed but Ethan didn’t say anything at first. His mentor challenged him with an eyebrow and he nodded in half-agreement.

“Well then doctors if you don’t have anything else to say- have a nice day!”

Ethan really wanted to tell Harper and Simon about it but he made a promise to his mentor to not bring up this conversation ever again.

“I’m really going to miss being a neurosurgeon y’know. It’s just a strange feeling not to touch the scalpel while wearing your mask and gloves to open the skull. Now the only thing that I can touch are papers. Unbelievable.” She chuckled while Ethan was driving his car. “Ethan?”

She raised her eyebrow seeing that he wasn’t paying attention to her. In these days Ethan had been acting differently since she was announced as the Chief. Surely there was no surgery that could stop her from meeting him or giving some slyly glances when they had crossed their ways. He looked deep in thought and if that was a reason behind of it, Harper would be delighted to know it if was about their relationship.

And Ethan Ramsey was thinking about a certain woman. The piercing brown eyes who had appeared multiple times in his dreams. He gripped tightly the steer trying to forget that rare smile she gave him when they were looking after little Ethan Hudson.

After making their coffees from his machine that no one in the hospital knew about it he was waiting for the other while checking his watch. He smirked at the thought of his secret. In the quiet NICU room were heard soft steps of his intern who gave him a rare smile he had never seen before.

“Am I late?”

“No you were just eight minutes late.”

She giggled and teased him. “You’ve been counting the minutes. Wow.”

“Just sit down and take it.”

He handed her the coffee packed in a plastic container just like one those of Starbucks. When she sipped it she felt another kind of taste and let out content moan.

“This isn’t Edenbrook’s coffee. It’s clearly a cappuccino.”

He shook his head before sipping. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Liar. This is exactly the same coffee I do in my apartment and it’s originally from Brazil. It’s the same taste and you-“ she pointed her finger to him. “- can’t deny it.”

Instead of answering her he replayed again the moment when she moved her tongue before saying the letter ‘L’.

Ethan get hold of yourself.

He sighed in defeat revealing his secret. “This is from my private coffee machine.” She clapped her hands in victory while whispering ‘yes’ to herself whereas he scoffed. “As soon as I got the office I vowed never to drink that caffeinated dishwasher again. No one knows it so...”

“I won’t tell a soul.” She said before laughing quietly and holding her hand to stop it but when she saw the warning gaze of her attending she pursed her lips. “Okay sorry.”

“Ethan?”

“Uh, yes Harper what were you saying?”

“You took us into the wrong road.”

He took a look of the signs which were leading them to Boston Common instead of the baseball stadium so he shifted his direction to the right one.

They arrived at the local bar where the baseball game was playing. Ironic to Ethan was that the two squads would always choose blue and red uniforms to play. While he was ordering two drinks to the bartender Harper got an emergency call from the hospital and that’s when he didn’t want to deal this by his own.

Jesus Christ what else are you bringing to me now huh?

Apparently his bragging on his mind was stopped when in the corner of his eyes a young woman in her sportswear appeared with her hair tied up, drinking a bit of cigarette. He almost could feel her perfume. That perfume who was standing next to him two weeks ago and his observation skills never failed him. It was indeed that kind of smell that he wanted to forget but it seemed to be inevitable.

After she texted Bryce on her phone she glanced up to see the tall figure standing in a stool enjoying his casual scotch. Her breath hitched when she realized her cigarette was still on her fingers and luckily she found the nearest bin to throw it. She didn’t want another embarrasment in front of him as she moved closer.

God damnit. How is possible that there’s not a single day without seeing him?

“Someone’s date didn’t go as well as expected huh?” She said playfully as if to break the ice but she knew that a man like him wouldn’t bring his girlfriend here. But Klaw wasn’t sure why she was enjoying this little teasing.

“Did you enjoy your smoke?” That’s where she rolled her eyes meaning that he saw it and Ethan curled the corner of his lips. “About the answer of your question no- I’m not in a date. I’m here to renew the contract between Edenbrook and Banner Health Rep and this drink was for Harper but she had to go back to hospital for an emergency case.”

“Oh I see.” She bit her lower lip nervously. The Banner surname. Such familiarity to her. But she didn’t want to think about it because she knew exactly who was behind of that great company. His words interrupted her thoughts.

“And what about you?”

“I’m trying to spend this miraculously day off with my friends. We saw a baseball game in which I had absolutely no idea how it was played and the funny thing was that I was cheering about the blue ones but then I did the same for the red ones clapping like a fool.” She giggled. “I’m literally stupid.”

“Glad that you are aware of it.”

“Hey.” She smacked his arm. “I’m not the only stupid here by the way.” She smiled while when he furrowed his eyebrows. “You clearly are staying here in this bar thinking ‘damn how am I going to survive those pesky and petulant rich people in front of me’ and trying to avoid them but you can’t do that because the deals with Edenbrook are in your hands. Am I correct?”

“Not always.” She gave him an incredulous look. “Okay you caught me. They’re trying to butter me up with lobster, fine wine and all the ridiculous luxuries they can afford.” He sighed. “It’s terrible. And I’m not a man for... schmoozing.”

She rolled her eyes. “Yeeeah I’m almost believing it.” But she did actually. It was just one of her ways to not express herself and it was clearly a rule she lived with for a long time now.

“As much as it humiliates me to ask a favour of an intern... would you... join me upstairs?”

Did he just ask me to... what? But what if I meet his uncle? No. It’s not possible for him to be there. Whatever happens put a poker face... no one knows you.

He sensed her hesitation and added. “I won’t keep you much longer. I just don’t think I’ll survive much longer on my own.”

“Did I say no?” She smiled again and got up from her seat.

He smiled aback. “Follow me then.”

The box suite had a magnificent view of the stadium and a part of Boston Highway. Surely this thing wasn’t foreign to Klaw. Being with rich people. She knew how they used their strategies to attract doctors like Ethan Ramsey or anyone else. But she wasn’t worried about that. She took a brief look at the guests of the room and luckily was no sign of his uncle.

“If you are going to give me lectures about how to behave in front of them don’t.” To prove it she took two glasses of wines before he would say it.

“Then I’m waiting to see what gems are you going to reveal to them Rookie.”

“Watch and learn Dr. Ramsey.” She clinked her glass with his.

“Don’t be such confident. I’ve seen many doctors changing their priorities to be part of these things and don’t tell me I didn’t warn you.”

“Got it Sir.” She winked and maybe that was a bit unprofessional but that came naturally to her and unexpectedly he didn’t even seem to be bothered. Klaw could feel her guilt building up in herself for not telling the truth to her attending what actually happened before arriving at NICU but her thoughts were interrupted until-

“Ethan, Ethan there you are!” A chirping voice was heard in the middle of the crowd now approaching them with an amusing face.

“Smile a bit Dr. Ramsey.” She muttered.

“I am Dr. Craig.” He muttered back.

“Yes from what I’m seeing now you have a very good poker face.” She mocked.

He scoffed. “I am a doctor not an actor for god’s sakes!” Their voices were now barely a whisper as the representatives were coming closer and closer.

“Then you should be.” And both shared a quick glance.

His, a worried and a troubled one.

Hers, a reassuring and a supportive glance.

He seriously didn’t expect their conversation to go flow and in such a quick way thanks to an intern. They finally managed to renew the contract and she didn’t let them escape without her request for better rates on cardiac services. This was one of the biggest achievements they’ve had and a smirk appeared on her face while turning to his gaze back.

“Okay you don’t need to say it.” He raised his hand averting her.

“The future of medicine?”

“Stop it.”

“One of the most promising doctors?”

“I shouldn’t have brought you here.”

“But you wouldn’t have won without me Dr. Ramsey. Now we’re double trouble.”

He scoffed. “I think you are the real trouble here Rookie. Besides I couldn’t introduce you as a colossal pain in my ass, could I?”

“Ha. Ha.” She mocked him while rolling her eyes.

Both of them took their seats to enjoy the last part of the game there. When she thought everything was back to normal that question came back as if slapped her face.

“Why haven’t you signed up for the competition?”

So Klaw how are you going to respond now to your mentor huh? Another lie you want to create? And you pretend that he’s a liar. Fuck it.

“As my bestie said: ‘Scalpel is enough for me.’ So I’m not going to waste that little free time in diagnosing.”

“Then why in your application was written that you wanted to be under my wing? Care to explain?”

“It was just a bingo.” She shrugged. “I mean I didn’t know with who I wanted to work so I just picked your name since I’ve read your book.”

He huffed. “You are very smart Craig but when it comes to lies you are very subtle.”

She closed her eyes for a moment while bringing back that fidgety of her fingers- and indicator that she was worried about something. “I don’t want to ruin my friendship because I know if I enter to this competition we will start to have rivalries and in the end we will never talk to each other. I’ve been thinking all of this time Dr. Ramsey, believe me. It’s not easy when you just find out that someone will dump you to get their spot on his or her place. It’s like an animalistic fight for territory but this is between people and this takes to a much cruelty and I don’t want to be part of this. I don’t want to have my friendship questioned.”

Ethan listened attentively to her reasoning and her how her logic had been analysing all of the pros and cons of being part of the competition. She clearly wasn’t a clueless intern. She was an adult who seemed to have been through a lot in her life.

“Remarkably wise outlook for an intern.” He admitted and she watched him in surprise. “Even my friends did the same when they started their residencies and now they’re apart from their rivalries and they’ve put boundaries to each other. So you’re smart to value your allies.”

She smiled while shaking her head in disbelief. “You just called me smart two times.”

He warned her. “And if you tell anyone I said that, I will disavow that entirely.”

“Duly noted.”

First, their meeting in London.

Second, their interaction with little Ethan.

And this was the third.

What else they would keep to each other?

——————————————————————

In the interns new apartment another friend of theirs joined them surprisingly with her husky dog. Sienna was the most excited one as she pulled her in crush hug leaving Klaw breathless.

“What a day, what a game!” Elijah said happily.

Jackie shook her head in disbelief. “I still can’t believe Landry’s advice to the manager got the Nighthawks to come back and win.”

“Well I wouldn’t say it was all me.” Landry grinned triumphantly. “All I did was examine the evidence and diagnose the problem. Which is why you can all kiss that diagnostic team position goodbye.”

“Ha. Dream on, buddy. I’ll give you a run for your money!”

While they were laughing Sienna and Klaw were curled up in a couch patting Jonah’s furry.

“Why did you name him Jonah?”

“I don’t know it just came out naturally. And I’m glad I put that name too. Sienna...”

“Yes?” She asked, her encouraging smile always evident on her face.

Before Klaw would talk about her proposition to move to this apartment her phone rang.

Who in the goddamn hell calls in this hour?

She excused herself while going to the balcony and shut the glass door carefully. “Hello?”

“Good evening Miss Craig! I-I’m terribly sorry that I’m calling in such lateness!” She recognised this voice. It was the receptionist of the apartment where she was staying.

“Yes Billy. Tell me.”

“Uhm there’s a package that came from postal service ma’am and it’s from Greece.”

“From Greece? Who sent this?”

“Let me check ma’am...” she heard some ruffles and scratches. “It’s from Ms. Zelda Ahmad. The location is Athens. What should I do with it?”

Her heart wrenched when she heard her aunt’s name in such a long time. The last meeting with her was when she buried her parents and her brother and went immediately to Los Angeles. To go to that inevitable and dangerous path which seemed to never have ended for her.

“Uhm ma’am are you there?” Billy asked when he didn’t hear anything from the owner and thought to ask her again. “What should I do with the package?”

“Keep it.” She said courtly. “I’ll be there as soon as possible to take it.”

“As you wish ma’am.”

She ended abruptly the call remembering why her aunt had sent her a package. After that Sienna opened the glass door sensing her friend’s troubled mind. “Is everything okay Klaw?”

“Oh, yes Sienna. No worries but can you guys keep Jonah for a minute?”

“Yeah sure but- where are you going?”

“There’s something that I’ve should done before.” She didn’t know how she created that line and Sienna gave her a smile which she did aback. Still not knowing the reason behind of that.

If her friends would’ve known how fast she came to their apartment... clearly they didn’t know that a black muscled Porsche parked in an underground garage was everything that a girl like Klaw Craig would need. She was thankful for this vehicle to have not only the best speed but also the best acceleration to drift a bit where there were no cops patrolling.

She took the package from Billy to jump onto the elevator, her foot tapping nervously to open it. She was afraid of what her aunt could’ve sent her because it had been four years with her absence and thought for a moment of those rare calls on the phone were really something or not.

Klaw didn’t want to open the door while her breath was hitching.

“Oh come on Klaw you can do this. It’s just a package and nothing else.” She scolded herself.

She unlocked the door rapidly and headed to her suite, tossing it to the bed. Her lips twitched several times while eating the insides of her cheeks anxiously. She didn’t know why felt afraid to open it because as much as she could remember she asked Zelda if there was something that her grandma liked such as ornaments or something that she could keep it too to her home. At least reminding bits of her memory.

When she dug the knife inside of it there were some books that she read while she was younger in her years and in the end of it...

She gasped.

The end revealed some medical files with the logo of Edenbrook Hospital. It were clearly her grandmother’s.

Her eyes widened. Now she remembered. She asked Zelda that she needed to see everything that was related to her grandmother’s illness- the treatment, the surgery appointment and the doctor’s name who did the operation. Zelda had said in that time she didn’t remember exactly where she put them because apparently her sister (Klaw’s mother) Marilyn obligated her to not show anything to Klaw.

Upon the files there was a card with some words scribbled.

To my gummy bear niece.

She laughed because she dearly missed the way her aunt called her then started to open it slowly.

Agapití [Dear] Helena,

When you were younger you were always our precious niece that I, Andreas and Mama DD ever wanted. I can’t say how lucky and how proud I am that you’re now a grown woman and an independent one. You know what many other things I could’ve written to you now but I’ll just keep it short. We love you so much and I want to apologise for lying at you at first when you requested Mama DD’s files. Your mother told me to keep them away because she knew your hot temper and you would do everything to find justice. Now no one is stopping you. Here’s everything you need to know which I hope they’ll be helpful. You can continue on your quest my darling. Because I’m waiting and believe me... Mari is waiting too.

xoxo, Z

When she opened the file was the patients name and the condition of her illness altogether with the treatment in which she already knew. But the surgery appointment was nowhere to be found.

“Fuck it!” She shouted while searching for other files. “But if there was a surgery appointment then surely one of them must be on the list of the Diagnostics Team.”

Dr. Banerji’s name wasn’t on the list. The same thing was with Simon but he had told her in the 2011 he was doing some practices in New Mexico and came back after two weeks.

The only names remained were:

Dr. Akash Mirani

Dr. June Hirata

Dr. Kenji Hirata

“Who the hell are these people?” She frowned in annoyance.

Dr. Harper Emery

“Dr. Emery was in Diagnostics Team too? So she knows what has happened to Daisy.” She seethed angrily given the fact that she was a well-respected neurosurgeon. She scoffed. “Even you aren’t perfect as anyone can think Harper Emery.”

True. Nobody was perfect and neither was the last name.

Her eyes landed to the first letter...to the second, to the third until it revealed the full name with the doctor’s title.

Dr. Ethan Ramsey

She stayed still while a chill was running down her spine. Her lips trembled threatening to be welled up in tears. She saw the name again and shook her head in disbelief. Maybe she wasn’t looking properly. Maybe she needed glasses to see better. Maybe...

“No, no... it can’t be... it can’t be.” She said frantically.

She was panting hardly trying to collect herself.

She felt every emotion in one second and couldn’t understand what she was feeling. Relief? Happiness? Anger? Rage? Betray? Fear?

What she knew now was that she had a newly profound change.

Even though she had some bits of good memories with him it seemed like they were vanished.

A change that coursed down her body and made her to look into the mirror on the wall as she remembered some few words.

Competition makes them stronger.

And now she knew exactly what to do. If she wins it she would reach to the truth.

And a new confidence was now appearing even in her voice now.

“Ethan Ramsey... be prepared to see this Rookie being your closest ally.”

She smirked devilishly because if Klaw Helena Craig wanted something... she definitely would take it.

And there was still time before all zeros lined up.

—————————————————-—————

TAGS WILL APPEAR IN A REBLOG!

Part 8: TBA*

Ps: please before you think what’s going to happen in the next part interact with this post.

from now on only the graduation of high school in june is much more important for me now... and also sorry for not replying to your supportive messages and for this post too... i don’t feel like I’m ready... but i truly appreciate them...

until then... stay safe folks...

bye. ❤️ K

[blackberries45]

This is silly and stupid and my first writing ever. I'm sure it's full of mistakes, so I'm sorry. As I tried editing, the tumblr app kept not saving or moving the page. I'll try to make something better next time, if I do try again.

Please note : After both seeing the movie and reading the book, I kind of combine the two in my mind. Younger Billy, apartment more like the movie, events more like the book.

*tiny bit of laungue, small love scene

**not my gif**

*****************

Y/n looked in the mirror as she brushed her teeth, day dreaming about the day ahead. Wishing she coud just spend all day, wrapped up in the blankets, watching something silly with Dan. As she finished and came out the door, Dan knew it was now or never.

"Y/n, I think we need to stop doing this" Dan spoke softly but with a firm tone. Y/n hadn't really heard what he was saying as she gathered her purse. "Hmm?" She asked, starting to slowly look up, still wishing to just stay.

"We need to stop doing this whole...thing. This half way in, half way out. Although I like you very much, I think it's time to let it go" Dan looked y/n in the eyes briefly but kept his gaze mostly down. He tried to not shine and see her thoughts but he picked up a small image, almost like a dark rain cloud moving in. "Good" he thought. "Rain"

Y/n stood there. She dropped her purse back on the bed while still staring at him. "I don't understand" she said with a puzzled face. She was confused and started to get hot. Her stomach started to turn. "When did you all of the sudden decide that? Was it before you asked me to yet again spend the night, or after you woke up?" All she could do was stand there and blink.

"I know this sounds harsh and unfounded but you need to think about this. Two years we have been playing this game and I think we both know it's going no where. It would be for the best if that was the last time." Dan was alittle louder this time. He looked her in the eyes but it was hard to do. He was trying to keep a mental block up and put on a harsh face when really, he was lying. He didn't want her to go. He didn't want her to be sad or angry. He truthfully did want to stop the whole, "friends with benefits" thing and just be with her. Maybe her move in and together they just be happy. But what he was now facing, he truly didn't know if he would come back from. He thought this was the only way. The fair way. The right way. Make her hurt, make her angry, make her forget him and move on.

Y/n just stood there until she finally felt like she heard a snap in her brain. She reached for her purse and started to walk towards the door. She felt drunk and sick. She wanted to turn around and scream and cry but there was no use. When Dan made up his mind about something, that was usually it. She felt like she was in a fog. She told herself she had to get home and get ready for work, so she did. Every step she took, down the stairs, through the hall, down the streets back home, she was on auto pilot. If she hadn't done it a thousand times before, she may have smacked into a something but she knew this route well.

As Dan watched y/n walk through the door, he quickly grabbed a last image. "Looks like a storm is coming" he thought to him self. "Yeah, for you and me both" He sat down on his bed, arms resting on his knees and put his hands on his low hung face as time slipped away for awhile.

****

It had been a few days but y/n was still confused and hurt. She was angry at herself mostly. This is why she ended up in this silly little town to begin with. She didn't want the hurt of relationships anymore. She didn't want to trust anyone again. But now she realized, she had trusted Dan even more because of being that friend. She trusted him to see her in makeup or without. Hungover and playfully scolding her or pissed off. She trusted him but more than that, she loved him. She thought they were two misfits that would always be sperate yet together. How could she not have seen this coming?

When Billy texted y/n that he was taking Dan on a "guys trip", y/n thought "Good! Stay away! Let me walk around town and not be worried to see you or hear you on your stupid train" She wasn't suprised that Dan didn't tell her, but it was another chance for her to call him an asshole, so she was glad. As the days passed however, she shifted from being happy again and upbeat to sad and scared. She couldn't undertand why. She had odd moments of desperately wishing Billy would text to say they were back. All y/n wanted to do was curl up in a ball. She paced and tried staying distracted but it didn't work. She picked up her phone again and again, writing and then deleting texts asking where Billy and Dan were. At the very least, she didn't want Billy to tell Dan and him think she gave a crap about him right now. She contiuned to pace and worry the next few days.

***

They were exhausted. Beyond exhausted. They felt ran over. Thankfully, Dan no longer felt like a rat was gnwaing his insides and had been able to eat once the left he park and the police, but he and Billy both just wanted to be in their own beds and sleep. The little rental car they had gotten since the truck been so damaged was fine, but it felt like it topped out at 40. He knew they were going faster from taking turns driving, but home seemed so far away.

"Home" Dan thought. "My cramped little attic nest. How hot must it be now that no windows have been opened? How must it smell with no air flow? How long since I changed the sheets" He knew what he should really be thinking was how grateful he was to be alive, which he honestly had given a very slim chance of being. He didn't expect to return when he left. His next thoughts were of y/n. His plan had worked. She had been out of his mind, not for any reasons except he need the space and the emotions to focus. He didn't want to be worried about her or thinking how worried she would be for him. Now having explained everything he had to Billy, John, and the rest of them, explaining his shine and the rest to y/n seemed easier. But before, it seemed like madness.

They finally made it to their little town. Dan slowly climbed the stairs and entered his apartment. It was exactly the same except for a smiley face drawn on the blackboard wall from his niece. The air was stagnant and strong. The sheets wrinkled from him not making his bed before he left. Something had gone south in the fridge. The biggest thing that hit him though, he desperately wished someone was there to hug him. Someone he could hug in return. Someone he could say to, "I'll tell you the story later but for now, lets just curl up and sleep." It wasn't someone he wanted, it was y/n. He walked to the bed and sat down, flipping his phone multiple times in his hand. Should he, shouldn't he. Should he, shouldn't he. He had left her a mess of rage and heartache and he knew it. He did it to protect her and himself, but would she understand it this way? Would she be able to process any of this? If he left her alone, he could maybe be friends with her again some day and never have to tell her. But he missed her. He wanted her right here. He want to be able to see someone that made him feel happy he came back for. He decided on a text.

Home. Come if you can or want.

His texts were never warm and fuzzy. She chalked it up to his slightly out of touch use of cellphones. He hated the things . She was taking a bath when her phone made a tiny "ping" from the other room. She wasn't even sure she actually heard it. She contiuned shaving her legs and slowly finished her bath. Once out, she took her time to dry off and put on lotion before walking out to her phone. Two messages. Billy and Dan. She read Billy's first. "Home" is all it said. She quickly replied and hit send. She took a deep breath and looked at Dan's. By now sent 20 mintutes ago to her phone. She didn't know what to think once she had. "What the Hell is this? A booty call? He dumps me, well, we weren't dating, he, let's me go or whatever but now wants me over there??" She was alittle angry and confused all over again. Although she was relieved they were ok, and she badly wanted to see him. She went back to her pacing when finally, she was walking out the door. She was half way there before even noticing what she was doing. She hadn't even responded to his text. Up the stairs, to the door and knocking, it all happened in a flash.

He stood there, a smile, if you could call it that, trying to form on his tired and beat up looking face. If someone had been in a fight with the Devil, he would be the picture proof of what it looked like. She could have said alot of things, and so could he. She could screamed alot of things, and he would have understood. But she stepped in, put her purse down, reach up to his face and as quietly asked, "What do you need?"

That. That was what he "needed". He bent down and kissed her. Soft at first. But increasingly more needy. Nothing in the apartment was far out of reach and they took a few steps and were on the bed. She laid down and he placed his hands on either side of her, kissing her face and neck. He lifted her shirt and started kissing everywhere on her stomach. Y/n took her shirt off, and Dan kissed where the shirt had been. Y/n moved around to remove her pants, all the while he kept kissing. Sometimes on the lips, sometimes the shoulder. He was getting more feverish though. The kisses were turning into almost little bites. He felt himself getting more primal, more dominant.

When they were both naked and starting to sweat from the apartment heat and the little bit of movement between them, he looked up at her, almost looking into her soul, and she noded. He started. Slowly entering her but quickly taking her for all he could. He was working out everything that had happened. The pain, the sadness, the fear. He was getting it all out of his system. The other people the had been inside his brain, the lack of sleep. Everything all at once. This wasn't a domination session, but it also wasn't making love. He was using her to almost cleanse himself. She groaned and moved with him. He kept one hand up next to her head and the other on her hip and and made all of the noises with her. When she was close, she arched her back and it brought him out of his thoughts and back to her. Seeing her like that sent him over and he quickly came as well.

When they were done, he rolled over and brought her into him. They were nasty and sticky but he didn't care. He laid there wanting to tell her everything, but it only took a few moments before he was out. Y/n quietly left the bed when she heard his breathing change. She looked down at him and wondered "What in the Hell happened to those two? Did they fall off a mountian? " She went into the little bathroom and cleaned herself up. Then she walked over and opened the window above Dan's bed and another across the room. She wanted to clean the place up for him, take out whatever was growing the fridge, but she thought he needed sleep and decided to stay as quiet as possible for a bit. She grabbed another sheet to roll herself in laid back down next to him. "Later he can explain" she told herself and then drifted off to sleep.

[dvp95]

quiet on widow’s peak (13)

pairing: dan howell/phil lester, pj liguori/sophie newton/chris kendall rating: teen & up tags: paranormal investigator, mystery, online friendship, slow burn, strangers to lovers, nonbinary character, trans character, background poly, phil does some buzzfeed unsolved shit and dan is a fan word count: 4.3k (this chapter), 42.9k (total) summary: Phil’s got a list of paranormal experiences a mile long that he likes to share with the world. Abandoned buildings, cemeteries, and ghost stories have always called his name, and a particular fan of his has a really, really good ghost story.

read this chapter on ao3 or here!

Phil is herded out of the house before he can shower, style his hair, or put in his contacts. As soon as his clothes are finished drying, his parents are pushing him and all of his bags out the door.

“We’ve got someone coming to see the house,” his mum had explained in that half-frantic voice he associates with company arriving. “You’ve got somewhere to be, haven’t you?”

He doesn’t have the gumption to explain that he’s still got hours before he has to be anywhere. Instead, Phil just hoists his bags higher on his shoulders and sets off for the bus stop. The wind isn’t bad today, thank goodness for small mercies, but it still isn’t pleasant to be outside in November. He pushes his floppy, unwashed hair off his forehead and reluctantly sends Dan a message.

It’s still pretty early and Dan might be in class by now, so he doesn’t expect an immediate response. He’s halfway through a Buzzfeed article and leaning against the shaky bus window by the time his phone buzzes.

im omw from class now just meet me at my place

An address follows, close enough to the coffee shop and the Wilkins place for Phil to feel comfortable finding it. He’s not sure how comfortable he is with being in such a small, private place with Dan before spending most of the night with them. He wonders if his brewing feelings and abject confusion surrounding them will be obvious.

Phil bites his lip and taps away from the article. He’s not sure where to start, but he thinks it’s about time that he started looking into gender stuff. He’s lived with PJ for almost two years and been friends with him for longer, but this isn’t something they tend to talk about. Technically, he hadn’t even been told, he’d just picked up on it from conversations around the old Brighton house. PJ isn’t in the closet, but he seems to have the same attitude about his gender identity that Phil has about his sexual identity - it isn’t anyone’s business unless they’re actively pursuing him.

This isn’t about PJ, though. Phil can’t pretend like these bewildered Google searches are in any way an attempt to understand his friend better. This is about Dan.

--

“Dan?”

The girl looks confused enough that Phil thinks he’s gotten the wrong flat for a horrified moment, but then her brow uncreases and she laughs.

“Oh, duh. Sorry, she doesn’t have many people coming to visit.” She waves Phil inside and eyes his bags. “Especially not many that look like they’re moving in. You planning on staying long, mate?”

“Just the night,” Phil says, more or less honestly. His brain is still stuck on the new pronoun. He knows that Dan is fine with any pronouns, and that includes feminine ones, it just feels strange to have someone use the opposite of what most people might assume. “Er, my parents are selling their place and needed my junk out of the way.”

She nods and gestures deeper into the flat. It doesn’t have as many doors as the Brighton house that Phil shares with a rugby team’s worth of people, but it’s still enough to overwhelm him a bit. Seemingly in response to whatever panicked expression finds its way to Phil’s face, the girl laughs. “Winnie’s room is at the end of the hall,” she says. “Her name’s on the door, you can’t miss it.”

“Her name being Winnie,” Phil says slowly.

“That’s what she wants us to call her,” the girl says. There’s an edge to her voice now, a sort of protectiveness that Phil doesn’t know how to respond to.

Phil gives her an uncertain sort of smile and heads down the hallway. The common areas are surprisingly tidy for a student flat, but he still doesn’t feel comfortable there. He finds himself in front of a dark wooden door with a Winnie the Pooh poster stuck to it. It’s not exactly a nameplate, but Phil understands why their flatmate said that.

He knocks lightly, not wanting to disturb the other people who live here and might still be asleep. It’s barely past noon, after all, and Phil remembers what it was like to be a student. Hell, he doesn’t really have a proper sleep schedule now.

“Come in!”

Dan’s room is darker than the rest of the flat, and Phil has to let his eyes adjust for a moment as the door closes behind him. There are blackout curtains over the single window and fairy lights draped over every possible surface, giving the whole place a soft vibe. Phil doesn’t see Dan at first, but then he realises that they’re on the floor with -

“Is that a weasel?” Phil asks without bothering to say hello, dropping his bags carefully. The last thing he wants to do is scare the creature that’s scampering all over Dan’s shoulders and arms.

“Excuse me,” Dan laughs. They hold out the animal for inspection, and Phil joins them on the floor. “This is Tofu, he’s a ferret.”

“Hello, Tofu,” says Phil. He reaches out to gently take the ferret’s paw between his thumb and finger, and he pretends like they’re shaking hands. Dan laughs again, bright and happy, and Phil decides that he really likes seeing Dan in their comfort zone. “It’s very nice to meet you! I’m Phil.”

Tofu makes a squeaking sort of noise and wiggles out of Dan’s hands to roll around on the carpet.

“He’s kind of an idiot,” Dan says fondly. “Pixel is the smart one in this family, but she’s sleeping.”

Phil’s eyes follow Dan’s vague gesture to a surprisingly large, multi-level enclosure. There’s another ferret curled up in there, and Phil assumes that’s Pixel. “Exactly how many weasels do you have?”

“Just the two,” says Dan. They’re smiling so wide that Phil can’t bring himself to look away. Their lips are a dark shade of red, or maybe burgundy, but it’s hard to tell in the low lighting. The dark lines around their eyes are even more shadowed with it, though, and it’s an entrancing sort of effect. “Originally it was just the one, but she got so lonely. I should have gotten an introverted animal, I guess, if I didn’t want multiple, but I didn’t mind. Pixel wanted a buddy, so. Pixel got a buddy.”

“I think even introverts need buddies sometimes,” says Phil.

He’s suddenly so self-conscious about being here in his current state. He’s wearing his trusty denim on denim, which he knows suits him fine, but he’s also got his clunky glasses and can’t remember if he put deodorant on or not. Dan, on the other hand, looks as stunning as always.

That gets even more obvious as they lounge out a bit, uncrossing and stretching their long legs. Their leggings are tight and translucent enough that Phil might find them indecent if there weren’t a short, swishy skirt covering the important bits. When Dan stretches their arms out, too, their unbuttoned flannel falls further open and shows off the cropped band tee underneath.

Most of Dan’s body is covered, really. Only their hands and neck and navel are out, but that’s enough to make Phil’s brain short-circuit. Their hands are distractingly big, but still so gentle when they pick Tofu back up; their neck is long and ends in either a sharp clavicle or a soft, rounded jawline; their tummy is soft like the rest of them and there’s a simple barbell piercing through their belly button that Phil has to force himself to look away from.

“Have you talked to your friends about us going back?” Dan asks, seemingly oblivious to the way Phil is taking them in from head to toe.

“What?” Phil bleats, and then his brain catches up to the conversation before Dan can repeat themself. “Oh, yeah. I texted them about it, and they’re a bit worried, but they’re glad you’re coming along. They were pretty nervous about me doing this alone.”

“PJ said you tend to do stupid shit,” Dan says bluntly. Tofu is climbing up their arms and biting at their hair, but they don’t even react.

“When did PJ say that?”

Dan’s lips curve into a smile. “When he drove me home. We talked about you.”

Normally, a statement like that would make Phil anxious. He still feels it, a bit, that creeping sense of frustration and nervousness that he associates with mild anxiety, but it’s more dull than it would be if Dan wasn’t smiling at him so softly. Something about it makes Phil certain that he’d get an honest answer if he asked what they all said about him.

That certainty and budding trust are enough to keep his loud anxiety at bay, and Phil finds that he doesn’t feel the need to ask.

Instead, he looks around Dan’s room some more. Pixel is still napping soundly, and Phil doesn’t blame her - the room is so quiet and dim and full of pleasing scents from the candles on Dan’s nightstand, Phil can easily imagine curling up somewhere soft in here and nodding off.

The furniture itself is crappy in the way that most students have to deal with, but Dan seems to have an eye for design that Phil has never had. Sure, there’s no bed frame to hold Dan’s mattress, but their duvet matches the monochrome colour scheme of the posters and paintings on the walls, and their pillows look welcoming surrounded by a small collection of stuffed animals. Their desk is organized, but their closet is open and spilling clothes onto the floor a bit. Phil wonders if that’s something Dan had planned on fixing before he got here, or if Dan doesn’t mind having their dresses and jeans and boots on display.

There’s barely any colour at all, really, but it doesn’t feel depressing like Phil would have thought it might.

That’s not exactly true. There’s some colour.

Phil must be looking at the flag on the wall for too long, because Dan makes a humming sort of noise and breaks the comfortable quiet. “I know it’s a bit tacky,” they say, “and it doesn’t match, but… I dunno. I wasn’t able to be out until I got to uni, and I might have gone a bit nuts with it.”

“Yeah,” says Phil. His throat is a bit dry. “I can understand that.”

“It makes me feel safe,” says Dan. Phil turns to look at them again, but he regrets it as soon as he sees the genuine emotion in Dan’s wide eyes. He isn’t good with that. “Like. Knowing I can have it hung here, that I can be open with people without them being upset with me or something. I don’t think the flag itself makes me feel safe? But maybe that’s not true, either. Maybe embracing that part of myself helped me embrace the community as a whole. I haven’t done Pride yet or anything. Maybe next year. But - safety. Comfort. Y’know?”

“I do,” Phil says quietly. “I do know.”

Dan’s eyes go sharp. Phil hasn’t seen them do that before, and it’s unnerving how much it feels like his very soul is under scrutiny. He wants to squirm away from that feeling, doesn’t want any part of himself under a microscope, but he doesn’t want to run like he might normally.

There’s another moment of quiet, where Dan looks at Phil and Phil doesn’t look away, but of course Phil is the first to break.

“Which of those is your favourite?” he asks instead of saying the words he knows Dan is waiting for. He doesn’t want to run, but that doesn’t mean he needs to be more forthcoming. At Dan’s furrowed brow, Phil gestures to the bookshelf. Dan has a lot of books and movies and boxsets and textbooks, more than Phil can take in all at once. “The, uh, the anime. My favourite’s Fullmetal Alchemist. Er, Brotherhood, not the first one, but both are good.”

For a second, it doesn’t seem like Dan is going to allow him to change the subject so easily. But then Tofu bites at their ear and they’re both giggling, the intensity of the moment slinking off to make way for casual conversation.

--

Talking to Dan is easier than talking to some people that Phil has known for years. They put on a show that they’ve both seen and enjoy and they chat the whole time. Phil points out camera and editing choices that Dan hadn’t put much thought to before, and Dan rambles about theories they’d seen on Reddit for so long that Pixel has become Phil’s best friend by the end of it. Dan makes food at some point, their brief absence allowing Phil to look more carefully at the titles on their shelves. They have even more to talk about when Dan gets back, because Phil has a lot of opinions on some of the quote-unquote ‘classics’ that Dan reads and Dan has some opinions on Phil picking the cheese off his sandwich. Phil almost forgets that he’s here for a specific reason, that they aren’t just friends hanging out, until Dan brings out their Polaroid and starts asking questions about what to expect on the haunt.

Phil kind of wishes they could just stay here.

--

Before they left, PJ, Sophie, and Chris had all drawn several Sharpie sigils on a thin piece of scrap fabric and insisted that Phil tie it around his wrist or something. He takes it out of his pocket as he and Dan approach the house.

“Here,” he says, pulling them to a stop and rolling their sleeve up a bit. He ignores their big doe eyes and wraps it around their knobby wrist a couple of times. “Is that too tight?”

“No,” says Dan. They stay still while Phil ties it, and then they raise their hand to inspect it.

“It’s from the gang,” says Phil. “I know it seems like the sigils didn’t help last time, but - well, I dunno. Maybe they did help and it was going to be a lot worse without them. Or maybe they just rubbed off our skin too quickly. But, y’know, I know you don’t believe in this stuff, it just… it makes us feel better. I thought it would be a good placebo for you if nothing else.”

Dan touches the fabric and then smiles, looking for all the world like Phil has given them something precious.

“Thank you,” they say, their voice altogether too sincere for Phil to respond to without some major awkwardness. “What about you?”

“Oh, I’m already wearing my thing,” Phil lies. “C’mon, let’s get inside.”

The thing is, Phil figures Dan is the one who needs protecting from whatever is going on in the Wilkins place. They’re the one who got attacked last time, while Phil only dealt with flickering lights and the feeling of being watched. The last thing he needs is for Dan to insist on coming along again only to get themself hurt again.

He’s not sure if Dan believes him or not, but it doesn’t matter. Phil is already shouldering the back door open. He could climb through the window again with a boost from Dan, but he doesn’t think he has enough upper-body strength to pull Dan up after him.

The kitchen is as dark and dusty as ever, but that smothering, creeping feeling of eyes in the walls isn’t present. Phil stands still for a few seconds, waiting for it to wash over him again, but in the end he’s in the same place he figured he’d be from the beginning - listening to the creaking sounds of a house with absolutely nothing supernatural about it. He’s weirdly disappointed, but he imagines that Dan must be relieved.

He turns to Dan to see what they think, but their eyes are just as wide as they’d been the last time.

“Hey,” Phil says, quiet so as not to disturb the dust. “You feel something?”

“No,” Dan admits. They move closer to Phil, twisting their fingers into the cuff of his jacket and holding tight. It’s sort of sweet how they think he might leave them alone in this house, but it’s also somewhat of a nuisance to have a large person attached to him while he’s trying to move quietly.

“Then what’s wrong? Do you need to leave?”

Dan shakes their head. Their teeth dig into their dark bottom lip, and even though they reapplied their lip product before leaving the house, it still ends up on their teeth a little bit. Phil isn’t sure if he’s supposed to point it out or not. “I don’t need to leave or anything, it’s fine. I’m fine. Coming with you was the whole point. I just don’t… okay. Promise not to laugh at me?”

“I think I promise,” says Phil. He gives Dan a reassuring little smile. “But if you break into song and dance or something I reserve the right to change my mind.”

“Shut up,” Dan says, but they’re giggling. “No, I just… I just don’t like the dark, okay?”

It clearly takes something out of Dan to admit that. Phil shifts his hand so he can squeeze Dan’s. “Nobody really likes the dark,” Phil says. “I mean, it’s kind of my job, so I’m used to it, but I wouldn’t mind being somewhere brightly-lit and clean instead.”

“Thanks.” Dan’s cheeks look a bit darker, but that might just be the low lighting. “You can lead the way.”

--

Nothing happens.

There are spiders and dark corners and once or twice a loud noise from outside makes Dan jump and grab at his hand again, but Phil never feels like anything more is going to happen. The walls don’t have anything behind them except maybe rats, and even the attic simply makes Phil sneeze.

It’s frustrating. It’s almost worse than the night that he put his friends in danger, because at least then he knew that he could have a chance at a decent video. Now, there’s nothing to record.

Phil finds himself wishing for a flickering light or a quick shadow. He wants something, anything, to make him feel like he’s doing something productive with his life.

Instead, he just feels like he’s wading deeper into the confusion and shadows of his own future. He doesn’t know where he’s going to go if he can’t keep going back to the darkness of abandoned houses and old cemeteries. He went to uni, sure, but he hasn’t had a ‘real’ job in his life. Unless a month at the stationery store counts. He’s pretty sure it doesn’t. He wouldn’t even know where to begin with figuring out what he ought to be doing with his life if he isn’t chasing ghosts, but he’s not having fun with this anymore.

He’s twenty-six. It’s not old, he’s not old. He’s got plenty of time to figure his life out.

But if he’s spent the last decade wasting all his free time on something that isn’t enjoyable anymore, then he doesn’t know if he’s going to be able to forgive himself.

Dan is in his personal space again, pressing close to avoid the encroaching darkness, and they smell like… lavender. Phil remembers spice and mint from them, and he wonders if they’re wearing some kind of perfume today. It’s such a feminine scent that it’s hard for him to wrap his mind around the fact that he wants.

Further and further into the waters he goes. He doesn’t know what comes next for any of it, and it’s terrifying.

--

“We could stay all night again,” Phil is protesting, even as Dan frogmarches him down the back steps. “I know we didn’t find anything, but maybe it only works when you’re trying to sleep over? I could -”

“You’ll do nothing,” says Dan. “We are both going home, and I’m seeing you onto the bus so you don’t sneak back without me.”

Phil wants to object, but Dan tightens their grip on his arms like they know exactly what he’s going to say. Besides, it would probably be a lie. Phil is stressed and frustrated and in over his head, and if he could just get one clip or photo of this thing, then maybe everything will be okay. Maybe he can keep doing this after all.

He gently detangles himself from Dan and sighs, hoisting his backpack up. “Fucking… fine.”

“Fucking fine,” Dan repeats, their lips twitching.

“Maybe the sigils worked too well,” says Phil. He keeps his tone level so that Dan won’t be able to tell that he’s joking right away, but Dan shoves at his shoulder like they’re well aware of what he’s doing. “You know, I bet -”

“You’re annoying when you can’t do what you want, huh?” Dan interrupts. Their hands are shoved in their jacket pockets, but Phil wishes they weren’t. He wishes he could brush his hand against theirs as they walk and convince himself that it’s all an accident. “Bet that’s the baby brother in you.”

“No comment.”

The walk to the bus stop is quieter than the last time Dan walked him to it, but it's not uncomfortable. Phil can’t believe how much he cares about this person already. They’re friends, he’s pretty sure, and it’s impossible to deny how much this crush is starting to get to him. Still. It’s new, Dan is new, and Phil has to consider the possibility that the novelty is all he’s feeling.

It’s not. But he has to consider it, because Phil has to consider every possibility before he makes his mind up about anything.

“Hey,” Phil says, careful not to sound like he’s pushing.

“Hi,” says Dan. Phil isn’t looking at them, but he can hear a grin in their voice.

“I was just wondering,” says Phil. “I mean, you don’t have to tell me if it’s a sore spot or anything like that, but. Your flatmate said you were called Winnie. Obviously I know you go by Winnie online, but I didn’t know you did it, uh, outside of cyberspace.”

“Cyberspace,” Dan repeats like they can’t help themself. “Yeah, sometimes. I usually use it like a test.”

“A test?”

Dan hums. Phil wishes, again, that their hands weren’t trapped in the confines of their jacket. “For people I might get closer to. I ask my flatmates to call me something that’s clearly not masculine and see how they react and how often they slip up. Maybe it’s mean, I guess, since I don’t actually care one way or the other, but it’s a lot easier for me to open up to people who have already proven that they’re able to think of me outside of the Daniel box.”

“I can call you Winnie,” Phil offers. “If that’s what you want to be called. And I’m not a complete idiot, I’m sure I could remember to call you Dan when I’m bothering you at work.”

“Planning on bothering me at work some more?” Dan asks. They don’t wait for an answer. “No, I like Dan fine. They’re both fine. They just serve me different purposes, I guess, and I’m not bothered by either of them.”

“I don’t totally get it,” Phil admits. “But I’ll do whatever you want.”

“I know.”

Suddenly, Dan is tangling their long fingers with Phil's. It’s just for a second, long enough for the same sort of reassuring squeeze that Phil gave to them in the Wilkins place, but it makes Phil’s heart jump into his throat.

“You’re, like, overly considerate,” says Dan. They sound like they’re teasing - Phil hopes they’re teasing. He really, really doesn’t want to mess this up.

“I just think you should be able to, like, tell me if I do something wrong.”

Dan laughs. “You’re not getting it. That’s okay, you don’t have to get it. I will tell you if you do something wrong, I just have a really wide range of things I’m indifferent about before you get to the things that matter. Call me a boy or a girl or whatever, I don’t care. Try to imply that my favourite Pokémon is fucking Goldeen, on the other hand -”

They ramble all the way to the stop, and Phil finds himself feeling better despite the fruitless hours of wandering a dusty house.

“This is me,” Phil says as he sees headlights coming down the street towards them.

“Message me tomorrow,” Dan insists. For a moment, they’re both just standing there. Phil has no idea what he’s supposed to do in this situation. Surely a handshake would be weird, but would a hug be weirder? Should he just pat their shoulder, or is that absolutely the creepiest thing he could do? They had both waved, yesterday, so maybe that’s what he ought to do again. His eyes drift to Dan’s mouth. The product is still mostly there, but there are indents where their front teeth have been digging all night that show the natural colour of their lips.

That’s not an option, Phil reminds himself with a little shake. He’s about to keep overthinking it when Dan wraps their arms around him and says something that sounds like a goodnight. They smell good, and they feel good, and the only thing that gets Phil stepping back is the sound of a bus stopping next to them.

“Bye,” he says, quiet. Dan’s smile is almost enough to make him miss this bus and wait for the next one.

[savedfromsalvation]

Murder in the Bible

The act of murder is rampant in the Bible.  In much of the Bible, especially the Old Testament, there are laws that command that people be killed for absurd reasons such as working on the Sabbath, being gay, cursing your parents, or not being a virgin on your wedding night.  In addition to these crazy and immoral laws, there are plenty of examples of God’s irrationality by his direct killing of many people for reasons that defy any rational explanation such as killing children who make fun of bald people, and the killing of a man who tried to keep the ark of God from falling during transport.  There are also countless examples of mass murders commanded by God, including the murder of women, infants, and children.

The following passages are a very small percentage of the total passages approving of murder in the Bible.  They are divided here into three parts: 1) Capital Punishment Crimes, 2) God’s Murders for Stupid Reasons, 3) Murdering Children, and 4) Miscellaneous Murders.  This list is long, but it barely scratches the surface of all the murders approved of in the Bible.

1) Capital Punishment Crimes:

Kill People Who Don’t Listen to Priests

Anyone arrogant enough to reject the verdict of the judge or of the priest who represents the LORD your God must be put to death.  Such evil must be purged from Israel. (Deuteronomy 17:12 NLT)

Kill Witches

You should not let a sorceress live. (Exodus 22:17 NAB)

Kill Homosexuals

“If a man lies with a male as with a women, both of them shall be put to death for their abominable deed; they have forfeited their lives.” (Leviticus 20:13 NAB)

Kill Fortunetellers

A man or a woman who acts as a medium or fortuneteller shall be put to death by stoning; they have no one but themselves to blame for their death. (Leviticus 20:27 NAB)

Death for Hitting Dad

Whoever strikes his father or mother shall be put to death. (Exodus 21:15 NAB)

Death for Cursing Parents

1) If one curses his father or mother, his lamp will go out at the coming of darkness. (Proverbs 20:20 NAB)

2) All who curse their father or mother must be put to death.  They are guilty of a capital offense. (Leviticus 20:9 NLT)

Death for Adultery

If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife, both the man and the woman must be put to death. (Leviticus 20:10 NLT)

Death for Fornication

A priest’s daughter who loses her honor by committing fornication and thereby dishonors her father also, shall be burned to death. (Leviticus 21:9 NAB)

Death to Followers of Other Religions

Whoever sacrifices to any god, except the Lord alone, shall be doomed. (Exodus 22:19 NAB)

Kill Nonbelievers

They entered into a covenant to seek the Lord, the God of their fathers, with all their heart and soul; and everyone who would not seek the Lord, the God of Israel, was to be put to death, whether small or great, whether man or woman. (2 Chronicles 15:12-13 NAB)

Kill False Prophets

If a man still prophesies, his parents, father and mother, shall say to him, “You shall not live, because you have spoken a lie in the name of the Lord.”  When he prophesies, his parents, father and mother, shall thrust him through. (Zechariah 13:3 NAB)

Kill the Entire Town if One Person Worships Another God

Suppose you hear in one of the towns the LORD your God is giving you that some worthless rabble among you have led their fellow citizens astray by encouraging them to worship foreign gods.  In such cases, you must examine the facts carefully.  If you find it is true and can prove that such a detestable act has occurred among you, you must attack that town and completely destroy all its inhabitants, as well as all the livestock.  Then you must pile all the plunder in the middle of the street and burn it.  Put the entire town to the torch as a burnt offering to the LORD your God.  That town must remain a ruin forever; it may never be rebuilt.  Keep none of the plunder that has been set apart for destruction.  Then the LORD will turn from his fierce anger and be merciful to you.  He will have compassion on you and make you a great nation, just as he solemnly promised your ancestors.  “The LORD your God will be merciful only if you obey him and keep all the commands I am giving you today, doing what is pleasing to him.” (Deuteronomy 13:13-19 NLT)

Kill Women Who Are Not Virgins On Their Wedding Night

But if this charge is true (that she wasn’t a virgin on her wedding night), and evidence of the girls virginity is not found, they shall bring the girl to the entrance of her fathers house and there her townsman shall stone her to death, because she committed a crime against Israel by her unchasteness in her father’s house.  Thus shall you purge the evil from your midst. (Deuteronomy  22:20-21 NAB)

Kill Followers of Other Religions.

1) If your own full brother, or your son or daughter, or your beloved wife, or you intimate friend, entices you secretly to serve other gods, whom you and your fathers have not known, gods of any other nations, near at hand or far away, from one end of the earth to the other: do not yield to him or listen to him, nor look with pity upon him, to spare or shield him, but kill him.  Your hand shall be the first raised to slay him; the rest of the people shall join in with you.  You shall stone him to death, because he sought to lead you astray from the Lord, your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that place of slavery.  And all Israel, hearing of this, shall fear and never do such evil as this in your midst. (Deuteronomy 13:7-12 NAB)

2) Suppose a man or woman among you, in one of your towns that the LORD your God is giving you, has done evil in the sight of the LORD your God and has violated the covenant by serving other gods or by worshiping the sun, the moon, or any of the forces of heaven, which I have strictly forbidden.  When you hear about it, investigate the matter thoroughly. If it is true that this detestable thing has been done in Israel, then that man or woman must be taken to the gates of the town and stoned to death. (Deuteronomy 17:2-5 NLT)

Death for Blasphemy

One day a man who had an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father got into a fight with one of the Israelite men.  During the fight, this son of an Israelite woman blasphemed the LORD’s name.  So the man was brought to Moses for judgment.  His mother’s name was Shelomith. She was the daughter of Dibri of the tribe of Dan.  They put the man in custody until the LORD’s will in the matter should become clear.  Then the LORD said to Moses, “Take the blasphemer outside the camp, and tell all those who heard him to lay their hands on his head.  Then let the entire community stone him to death.  Say to the people of Israel: Those who blaspheme God will suffer the consequences of their guilt and be punished.  Anyone who blasphemes the LORD’s name must be stoned to death by the whole community of Israel.  Any Israelite or foreigner among you who blasphemes the LORD’s name will surely die. (Leviticus 24:10-16 NLT)

Kill False Prophets

1) Suppose there are prophets among you, or those who have dreams about the future, and they promise you signs or miracles,  and the predicted signs or miracles take place.  If the prophets then say, ‘Come, let us worship the gods of foreign nations,’ do not listen to them.  The LORD your God is testing you to see if you love him with all your heart and soul.  Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone.  Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.  The false prophets or dreamers who try to lead you astray must be put to death, for they encourage rebellion against the LORD your God, who brought you out of slavery in the land of Egypt.  Since they try to keep you from following the LORD your God, you must execute them to remove the evil from among you. (Deuteronomy 13:1-5 NLT)

2) But any prophet who claims to give a message from another god or who falsely claims to speak for me must die.’  You may wonder, ‘How will we know whether the prophecy is from the LORD or not?’  If the prophet predicts something in the LORD’s name and it does not happen, the LORD did not give the message.  That prophet has spoken on his own and need not be feared. (Deuteronomy 18:20-22 NLT)

Infidels and Gays Should Die

So God let them go ahead and do whatever shameful things their hearts desired.  As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies.  Instead of believing what they knew was the truth about God, they deliberately chose to believe lies.  So they worshiped the things God made but not the Creator himself, who is to be praised forever.  Amen.  That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires.  Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other.  And the men, instead of having normal sexual relationships with women, burned with lust for each other.  Men did shameful things with other men and, as a result, suffered within themselves the penalty they so richly deserved.  When they refused to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their evil minds and let them do things that should never be done.  Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, fighting, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip.  They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful.  They are forever inventing new ways of sinning and are disobedient to their parents.  They refuse to understand, break their promises, and are heartless and unforgiving.  They are fully aware of God’s death penalty for those who do these things, yet they go right ahead and do them anyway.  And, worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too. (Romans 1:24-32 NLT)

Kill Anyone who Approaches the Tabernacle

For the LORD had said to Moses, ‘Exempt the tribe of Levi from the census; do not include them when you count the rest of the Israelites.  You must put the Levites in charge of the Tabernacle of the Covenant, along with its furnishings and equipment.  They must carry the Tabernacle and its equipment as you travel, and they must care for it and camp around it.  Whenever the Tabernacle is moved, the Levites will take it down and set it up again.  Anyone else who goes too near the Tabernacle will be executed.’ (Numbers 1:48-51 NLT)

Kill People for Working on the Sabbath

The LORD then gave these further instructions to Moses: ‘Tell the people of Israel to keep my Sabbath day, for the Sabbath is a sign of the covenant between me and you forever.  It helps you to remember that I am the LORD, who makes you holy.  Yes, keep the Sabbath day, for it is holy.  Anyone who desecrates it must die; anyone who works on that day will be cut off from the community.  Work six days only, but the seventh day must be a day of total rest.  I repeat: Because the LORD considers it a holy day, anyone who works on the Sabbath must be put to death.’ (Exodus 31:12-15 NLT)

[swervavery]

Chocoholic | Daniel Seavey

Pairing: Daniel Seavey x Reader

Summary: An alternate universe where you crave the food that your soulmate eats. The more one eats, the more the other will crave it.

Warning(s): None

Word Count: 1430

A/N: I really liked the idea for this imagine, but I’m not sure how I feel about the finished product. Please let me know what you think, any kind of feedback is highly appreciated.

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

I get off the phone with my friend and turn on the TV, glad to finally hear about something other than her impatience to meet her soulmate and get them to stop eating shrimp. Apparently, this is the third time her soulmate has eaten it this week, which wouldn’t be a big problem, if it wasn’t for her shellfish allergy. It must suck to crave something you literally cannot eat. Luckily for me, my soulmate doesn’t have any weird food habits. I do find myself craving apple juice quite often, but that is about it.

I get up from the couch to have another chocolate chip cookie. While on my period I usually resort to ice cream as my comfort food, but lately I’ve gained an obsession with chocolate. This week has been especially bad, and I have eaten every single piece of chocolate in my house. I am now on the second to last cookie, and I groan as I realize I’m going to have to leave the house and get more chocolate. I have been living on the couch for the past two days and I know that I look like a mess. The thought of having to shower and make myself look somewhat acceptable triggers another groan to leave my throat. What one does for chocolate.

Daniel’s P.O.V.

We are finally finishing up in the studio after a long day of recording, and I’m packing up my stuff when Jonah suggests we order take-away pizza to bring back home with us. We all agree and settle into the car while Jonah is on the phone. The drive to the pizza-place takes almost ten minutes, and we’ll have to wait at least another fifteen before our pizzas are done. Corbyn spots a grocery store further down the street and asks me to go with him to get us something to drink. I agree, and we head over to the store. Inside, we walk towards the sodas, but I stop short at the sight of the chocolate isle. I’m pulled towards it, my feet moving like they’ve got minds of their own. I have had an insane craving for chocolate the past three days, and it has been annoying the hell out of me, because I hate chocolate. Yet here I am, looking at all the colorful bars, not wanting but seriously needing it.

Y/N’s P.O.V

I push open the door to the grocery store close by my house. I had showered, put on pants, and “fixed” my hair, aka made it look slightly less like a bird’s nest. Even though I didn’t really want to leave my couch, I really wanted chocolate. Walking through the mostly empty store I make my way to the candy section. My stomach cramps up, and I hardly notice the other person standing in the isle, only focusing on getting my chocolate and going home to my couch and Netflix.

My hand instinctively reaches towards a bar of plain milk chocolate, and I am surprised when instead of getting hold of the chocolate, my hand crashes into another. I look up to see a tall, blonde boy with eyes so startlingly blue I almost gasp out loud. We look at each other for just a second too long, making the air around us thick with awkwardness. He clears his throat, and I avert my gaze, suddenly finding the floor remarkably interesting.

I glance up at the boy again, opening my mouth, hoping my brain can come up with something to defeat the awkward silence. Thankfully, I’ve been in a lot of social encounters, and my brain naturally comes up with witty, intelligent comments, fitting the situation I’m in. A couple of hours after the interaction. For now, all that comes out of my mouth is a low “umm” sound. The boy in front of me simultaneously starts with an “ehh,” and I see redness cover his cheeks, no doubt matching mine. He moves his head and hands in a weird little gesture, and I interpret it as a silent offer of the chocolate. I smile slightly, grab the bar off the shelf, and automatically tell him “thanks”.

I contemplate turning around and leave, but something is holding me back. “You’re a chocoholic too?” I ask the blonde, mentally applauding myself for managing to form a coherent sentence. He shakes his head, something between a smile and a grimace forming on his face. “Not really, I’ve just been craving it lately.” I nod my head in understanding, before responding, “I usually prefer ice cream, but I’ve recently been getting more into chocolate.”

Daniel’s P.O.V.

Another awkward silence settles between us, but I can’t bring myself to end the conversation, if you could call it that. Suddenly, Corbyn comes around the corner, calling out to me, “Dan, I’ve got the drinks! Should I get you some apple juice as well?” I don’t know if I want to hug him or yell at him for the interruption. “Yeah, that would be great, thanks.” The cute girl in front of me lets out a tiny laugh, and I glance back at her as she says, “That’s so weird, I don’t love apple juice, yet I somehow always crave it.”

Studying her standing there, bar of chocolate in hand, something inside my brain clicks. “You don’t think…” She looks at me quizzically, not understanding where I’m going with the conversation. “That, like, you and I are…” Her eyes widen and her mouth opens slightly as she catches on to my thoughts. I quickly realize how weird and creepy I must seem to her, and mutter out, “never mind, of course not, that’s just stupid….” I turn around and walk away, embarrassment flooding through my body.

Y/N’s P.O.V

I hastily walk after him, softly calling out “hey” as I grab his arm. He turns around, and for a second I’m speechless once again, but my head clears enough for me to tell him, “I never caught your name”. He looks both hesitant and relieved at the same time, staring at me with his captivating blue eyes, “It’s Daniel.” I hold out my hand for him to shake while introducing myself, and once our hands touch I feel a chill run up my arm and spread through my whole body. “Well, Daniel, I don’t know if we’re soulmates, but I think you’re cute and I’d love to hang out sometime.” He takes a moment to react, and then he quickly pulls his hand away, fumbling around in his pockets. “Y-yeah, for sure, sounds great! Just let me, umm”. Daniel pulls out his phone, and I get my own, opening the contacts app and handing it over to him. I type my number in his phone and he types his, then we swap phones again. Silence enfolds us again, but this time it feels less awkward. There is an electricity in the air, fueled by the knowledge of what we might be to each other.

Our moment is once again broken by Daniel’s friend, who yells “Daniel, stop flirting and let’s go!” Warmth spreads over my face, and Daniel takes a small step backwards towards the entrance. “It was nice to meet you Y/N”, he says, slowly walking towards the doors. “You too Daniel”, I tell him, watching him reunite with his friend who smirks and mutters something to Daniel, earning himself a punch in the arm. I smile to myself and walk to the register to pay for my chocolate.

I’m finally back in my couch, remote in hand and scrolling through Netflix while munching on chocolate. I consider finding a new movie or series to watch, but

decide against it. Instead I pull up Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and re-watch old episodes of my favorite comedy-cop show. My phone beeps, indicating a new message. Reaching over to the table, I pull it up and see a notification for a new message from cute grocery-store-guy. I smile as I open Daniel’s message, the TV and chocolate forgotten. It was really nice to meet you today, Y/N. I have to work this week, but what do you say I take you out to lunch or dinner on Saturday?  I’m about to respond, when three bubbles pop up, showing Daniel is writing another message. Also, I don’t know if we’re soulmates, but I actually can’t stand chocolate, so maybe you could stop eating it, just in case?  I chuckle to myself and settle in for an evening of chatting with Daniel, no longer needing chocolate to distract me from my period cramps.

[r3b3lgrrrrrrrl]

A LunaTic and her Gunn (Part 55 Xs1)

"Helluva Night"

@creatureofthen1ght-v3

@mythsloveworld

@kellyimagines

@queenieofthesouth

@crystalbaby12

After Luna changes, Ashley and her head over to The Amory to rehearse.

It's an open square stage. Like a four way runway. They do a run through, each positioned at an opposite corner. Starting by walking away from each other so that by time they meet, perfectly timed, they can toss their mic to the other as they walk by. It takes a couple runs to nail it. Not the toss but musical timing. They don't stop until it's perfect. Both girls maniacs when it comes to detail. Feeling confident in their flow and timing together, they cut out just after midnight.

Luna, Ashley and her band head to this neat little place called Up-Down to unwind with drinks and bar food. They hang out for a bit. Going over the show, bullshitting and playing pinball. Luna Snaps Colson while at the bar. Laughing, buzzed and full they wrap it up. Luna and Ashley have an interview in the morning.

Before going to sleep the two girls go over any last minute details of their performance. They're sitting on Luna's bed, sharing a joint also.

"Dude." A giggly Luna grabs Ashley's knee. "We're gonna do a fucking show together."

Of all their years, besides karaoke, they've never been on stage together.

"I know!!!" Ashley excitedly shakes her whole crossed legged body on the bed. "We're gonna fucking kill it!!" She exclaims to Luna's laughter.

--------------------------------------------------

Once Colson and Casie are home, he checks flight schedules real quick.

She's watching TV while he makes them dinner and a few phone calls. One to Emma, that goes according to plan. Then another.

"What are you doing tomorrow?" He asks.

After dinner, Colson gets Casie ready for bed. She has school tomorrow. They read 3 of her favorite books and he sings What I Got. It's their goodnight song. Tucking her in, he tells her that Mommy will pick her up from school but he'll see her the next day. Asking why, she's satisfied with his explanation. He tucks in with a tight squeeze, an I love you and a kiss.

Going into his room to collect himself, he lights a joint and checks his phone. Finding a Snap from Luna.

Opening it, he's pleased with his earlier decision. Snapping her back, he finishes the joint before climbing into bed. Trying not to miss her.

--------------------------------------------------

Ashley wakes up before Luna. As always. Learning over the years, she enjoys the half hour to herself that it usually takes to get her friend out of bed. She finally rises Luna with coffee, who immediately rolls a joint. They have a system.

Ashley showers first, while Luna sits with her, the joint and coffee. Holding it for Ashley to hit when she pops out her wet head.

Luna rolls another. Finishing in the shower, Ashley does the same for her.

Out of the shower, looking for clothes, Luna finally checks her phone. There's a Snap from Colson, amongst other things. But first, Colson.

"Oh my Fuck. He's fucking handsome." Even looking tired, he makes her body flush and pussy swell. Her heart misses him."

"Hey! You wearing this?" Ashley asks, pulling Luna out of her phone. Distracted she sets it down.

"Uhhhh... Nah. Go ahead." Luna says. She pulls on ripped black skinies, a sequin black tank and a long sleeve sheer white shirt. She puts on a deep purple lip before slipping on her white Chucks.

Luna stands up, just as Ashley asks "Ready?"

"Yup." Luna nods, grabbing her bag.

And awaaaaay they go......

--------------------------------------------

Luna and Ashley arrive at the station on time, which is amazing for them. Ashley's team is close behind. Luna likes them individually but finds an entourage annoying. Plus, she's not used to Ashley being as famous as she is now. To Luna, they're still just two kids running around, hanging out.

Luna and Ashley sit bullshitting in the back room. There's really no way to prepare for an interview, there's always room to go off track. They both know this and each other well enough to let it organically flow.

They look up as the door opens. Expecting to go on. They're not.

It's Dom and Colson.

Dom grabs Ashley, splattering her surprised, happy face with kisses.

Luna exclaims "Holy FUCK!!" Tears welling in her eyes as she jumps onto Colson.

Kissing him like he's her dying breath.

"What the fuck are you doing here!?" She asks in awe while still kissing him all over.

"We've come to watch the Nightmare!" Dom exclaims, pulling his mouth off of Ashley's. She pulls him back in.

Still in his arms, Luna looks at Colson smiling. "Really?" She asks. "What about Case?"

"Yeah, Em's gonna grab her from school and I'll pick her up tomorrow." He reassures her to another passionate kiss. They missed each other.

An intern walks into the two couples making out. "Oh!" She says before turning around.

Breaking away from Colson she calls "No, no, no..." Before kissing him once more and sliding off his body. "We're ready." She says.

The boys kiss the girls good luck before they head into the studio.

--------------------------------------------

"So we've got Halsey here. She's doing a free concert tonight at The Armory. We've also got That Brooklyn... Uh, I don't know if I can say this on air... Can I just call you That Brooklyn Babe?" Steve, one of the radio hosts asks.

"Absolutely Not." Luna answers quickly without hesitation. "Stick to simply Brooklyn if you're worried." She tells him.

"Ok... Ok.." Steve agrees.

"You can tell she's from NY!!" The co-host Dave chimes in. Luna gives him a side eye with raised eyebrows.

"Where the FUCK does Ash have me??" She thinks.

Steve starts up again "So you guys are here because you have a record together, Nightmare. It's #1 on The Pop charts. I think it's even #12 on The Alternative..." He looks around checking his notes. "Yep. Yep. #12.... You ladies must be incredibly proud. In all my years, I don't think I've ever heard a song as cutting or direct. I have to tell you. As a man, the song is a bundle of emotions. I literally go from fearing you, to wanting to change the world for you to feeling stupid for feeling like I have to save you."

Ashley and Luna speak at the same time.

Luna stating a solid "Good."

While Ashley offers up at sweet "Awww... Thank you."

Both girls give each other a cocked smile and amused side eye. Ashley plays the game. Luna not so much.

Laughing, Ashley leans in. "That's the idea. For you to see us as equals. Not ones who need to be saved and definitely not feared, although a little fear is good." She cocks her lip and winks at Steve.

"One's who deserve choices and options." Luna chimes in. "This isn't about us playing on the same baseball field. We're equal as human beings but in two different leagues because we are different. Men require different things than women and vice versa. This is about RESPECTING each other and what the other needs and is entitled to. Constitutionally. At least up until less then a month ago."

Luna's not afraid to drop political bombs. It's a lot of the reason why she doesn't do promos. There's no bullshitting with her when a real conversation is at hand.

"You have that song Bad Things with MGK right, Brook.. Brooklyn, is it?" Dave cuts in, stumbling over her name.

Luna knows his tactic but the thought of Colson softens her.

"Yes... I think we're at #5. He's actually about to drop an album on July 5th, Hotel Diablo. It's sick." She squeezes in the plug. "He's actually on the Nightmare record. Him and his band are who recorded with us. We'll be on SNL with them next Saturday." Luna lets out to Ashley's shock. You can't deny, Luna gives a good plug.

"Really?" Asks Steve. He goes on. "So you have this" He uses finger quotes. "'Girl Power' song with this 'Girl Power' video backed by an all male band?" He tilts his head as he asks.

"Yup." Luna's lips pop. "Strong women back men everyday. Why the fuck can't strong men back women?"

"Ohhhhh!!!" There's a howl to the F word. Her important point being lost.

"He's here, isn't he?" Dan asks. "With your boyfriend, Yung Blud?" He turns to Ashley.

"Yeah." She states not thinking anything of it.

"Can we bring 'em in?" Steve looks around, more asking the studio then the women.

"Uhhhh... Yeah... I guess..." Ashley says, unsure looking at Luna's 'What The Fuck???'

A few moments later a giddy Dom and unsure Colson head into the studio. Sitting next to each other, between their girlfriends, they slide their headphones on.

"Hey guys!!" Dan shouts.

"What's up!" Dom shouts back to Colson's "Sup."

Colson and Luna exchange an easy look of understanding. Neither of them is about this life.

"So, we've got 4 of the biggest pop stars right now, in our studio. We have Halsey and her boyfriend Yung Blud. And Machine Gun Kelly and his girlfriend.... We're gonna try it, we'll see if we get bleeped... That Brooklyn Bitch. Now you all are DOMINATING the charts right now. We've got at least 5 Top 40 hits between you guys and most are collaborations."

He's met to their "Yeahs."

He continues "So, tell me. You're all obviously friends and... partners. Is there any competition? Like, Halsey and Brooklyn, are you afraid your boyfriends will knock you out of #1?"

Luna and Ashley look at each other. Ashley speaks first.

"Nooooo.... Like you said, we're all friends. If I Think I'm Okay knocks us out, that's fine. What's most important to Lu.." She corrects herself. "Brooklyn and I is the message. Speaking out for those who can't. Bringing a voice to those who don't in Alabama and across the world. As much as you want to deny it, they're taking our rights away."

"Now nobodies trying to take..." Dave interrupts Ashley but Colson interrupts him.

"But they are, Dude. The fact that a woman who may conceive during a rape can be sentenced longer then the piece of shit who violates her is disgusting." He states firmly.

Luna's heart pounds and swells with pride. "This amazing MOTHERFUCKER."

"It's about lovin each other and lettin each live." Dom steps in. "There's many people's in this world who aren't treated fairly. Nightmare focuses on one specific section. In a smart, blunt way. You can't help but hear it. And if it wasn't true, it wouldn't resonate and it wouldn't be #1." He sits back in his chair.

Luna leans up. "Like Dom was saying, we have a voice. We're going to use it. Anyone out there, please write into AL's local legislature if you want. Support your local ACLU, look into Yellowhammer.com and listen. Always listen. And after you listen, if you have something to say, speak. Please don't be afraid to speak. Silence is any nastiness's dearest ally."

"Are we gonna get ANYTHING juicy from you guys??" Steve asks.

This pisses Luna off.

"What did you expect? You invited two strong women with a politically charged song onto your show?" She asks with her hands up.

"Just.. Just tell me.. Do you all hang out?" Steve asks pathetically, looking for any detail of their lives.

The four of them look at each other and erupt into laugher.

"Yeah, Man." Colson says.

"Of course we hang out, we're best mates!" Dom chimes in.

"Yeah, we all live together too..." Ashley adds.

"Unh-hunh, in beautiful polygamy glory in the Hollywood Hills." Luna finishes.

The four of them erupt into laughter again to the host's dismay.

Luna controls herself. "No, seriously. We all get along really well. Halsey and I have been bestfriends forever. Nightmare is REALLY important. We're debuting it at The Armory tonight. We hope to see you guys there..." She looks at the others. "Hotel Diablo July 5th. Bad Things...."

Ashley pops in "11 minutes, I Think I'm Okay both streaming now. Get some... Tonight's gonna be awesome. We can't wait to see you guys there!!!"

Colson hops on too, laughing. "And Hollywood Whore!" He shouts to the others laughter.

"And don't forget Tales of the Ritalin Club!!" Luna comes back in with a snicker.

"Yes! Yes!" Laughs Dom. "And Eastside.." They continue to shamelessly plug and laugh until Steve talks over them.

"That was Yung Blud and MGK. Halsey with That Brooklyn Bitch. Their debuting their #1 hit Nightmare tonight at The Armory. If it's anything like this interview, I'm sure it will be crazy. We'll be back!"

Nightmare plays them out.

--------------------------------------------------

The four of them tumble laughing into the hallway.

"Come're!!!" Ashley calls. Gathering around a mirror she finds, they pose for cramped selfie. She posts on Instagram immediately.

Fun interview today with these crazy looooverrrrsssss 💘💘💘💘See you all @thearmory l8r. It's gna be a helluva NIGHT!! #nightmare

--------------------------------------------------

Luna, Colson, Dom and Ashley roam DownTown Minneapolis. It's early enough on a Monday for Ashley and Colson to not be recognized.

They have lunch and do some shopping. Luna picking up a beautiful, turquoise cuff. Before long Ashley needs to head to the venue. Luna's not far behind here.

The boys will meet them there later.

--------------------------------------------------

Word Limit (1 of 2)

To be continued......

[sophfandoms53]

this might seem very basic, but please do “i love you 3000” with dewey and his fam?

Alright.. um… ow my heart.. y’all arent ready for the feels in this. Or maybe you are. I don’t know.

Letsago! (Also spoilers for Endgame in a sense)

-

“Great minds think alike. Juice pops, they were exactly what was on my mind.” Dewey said as he finished off his grape pop while ruffling Skye’s hair.

Danny giggled as he struggled to hold his half-way finished stick and Dewey chuckled, “You done with that Dan?” His son chuckled and brought the pop stick towards Dewey who took it and finished Danny’s orange pop, “Now you are.”

The three year old giggled again as he crawled to Dewey on Skye’s bed and stood up, “Upsies!”

Dewey chuckled, picking Danny up, “Alright time for bed you three.” He looked over at Chase who was chewing on his empty stick, “C’mon Chase hop to your bed.” To which the young 5 year old did as Dewey put Danny in his mini bed and tucked Danny in.

“I hopped in Papa.” Chase said.

His father walked over, “I see. Now lets get you under your sheets yeah?” Dewey tucked his other son in tightly, “Ah snug as a rug in a bug.”

Chase cuddled into his pillow, “It’s snug as a bug in a rug, dad.” He laughed as he corrected his father.

Dewey playfully rolled his eyes and zooshed Chase’s hair, “Yeah yeah.” He turned around, heading towards the door.

“Daddy?” Skye called, getting her father’s attention, “Tell us a bedtime story.”

“A story?” Dewey asked while kissing her forehead, “Alright. Once upon a time, a group of three children went to bed. The end.”

Chase scoffed, “That’s the same story you told us last time. I bet it’s not even a whole story.”

“C’mon that’s your favorite story.” Dewey chuckled “I love you three tons.”

“We love you, 3000.”

He was slightly taken aback. “Wow… 3000.. that’s crazy..” His heart accelerated. He loved his children incredibly and 3000.. that was a huge number. Dewey shook his head chuckling, “Now you three go to bed before I sell all your toys. Night kiddos.”

“Night Dad!” His kids said as he walked out and heard them giggling

Dewey walked into the living room and he saw Webby sitting on the couch reading one of her novels. He smirked walking behind her, and placed his hands on her shoulders, which startled her slightly but she looked up at him.

“Not that it’s a competition but… they love me 3000.” Dewey said looking down at Webby.

She smirked, “Oh really?”

“Yerp.” He smoothed down her hair, “You were somewhere in the low 6 to 900 range.”

Webby laughed, placing her book down and Dewey hopped over the couch and sat next to her. “What were you reading?”

She shrugged, “Just a book on composting…”

Dewey nodded and there became an awkward silence in the room. He anxiously rubbed his hands together debating how to tell Webby the news. He then decided to just go for it.

“I figured it out..”

Webby perked.

“Time travel… I figured it out..”

She was astounded. Her husband. Dewey Duck. Cracked Time Travel. “Wow.. that’s… amazing.. and.. terrifying all at the same time.”

Dewey nodded as he swallowed. His insides twisted, his nerves taking over. HE figured it out but.. that didn’t mean they could fix what happened.

Seeing her husbands stressed state, Webby placed a hand on his shoulder, “We got really lucky you know? I mean we’re married and have three beautiful children.”

A small smile made its way to Dewey’s beak, “Yeah… I know..”

“A lot of people didn’t get that lucky Dewey..”

He shook his head, “No…. but I can’t help everybody.”

Webby narrowed her eyes, “It sort of seems like you can. I mean you-”

“Not if I stop.” Dewey interrupted, looking Webby right in her eyes, “I can put a pin in it right now and stop.”

She cupped his cheek, “Dewey, trying to get you to stop has been one of the few failures in my entire life.”

He gently held her wrist, “Something tells me I should put it in a locked box and drop it at the bottom of a lake and go to bed.”

“But would you be able to rest?” Webby asked, “Knowing that you didn’t take this chance?”

He sighed.

“I..” He began before Webby shushed him

“Dewey.. look at me.” She spoke softly, “Just do what you gotta do. Like you’ve always done, and I’ll have your back.”

He smiled softly and nodded. 

This whole thing had so many variables. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to pursue and help his brothers in their cause or just shove it all aside and continue his life with Webby and their kids. She did bring up a good point that made Dewey think.

Would he be able to rest?

-

Family and friends all gathered in the living room. All dressed in black, and stood close to each other. Many returned and other’s… well..

Mrs Beakley walked downstairs carrying his metal helmet and placed it down on the table, positioning it in the right direction. She clicked a button and the hologram message started.

Webby held her children close as the hologram of their father appeared. He was shuffling through cards before sighing and placing them down.

“What did I write these cards for..” Dewey’s hologram spoke, “I just gotta go with this.. as crazy as this all is… just go with it. Okay..” The hologram sat down and he faced the family.

“Hey everybody… If you’re playing this then.. we did it.. We actually pulled off Huey and Louie’s insane plan…” He went silent for a moment, took a deep breath, “But.. that also means something happened to me.. and.. I don’t really know.. I mean I’m in your past right now so.” He chuckled, “God this whole thing is confusing. I can’t even believe I even have to record this but… I figured I’d leave a proper goodbye for you all.. since I most likely won’t have time to say much..”

The whole room was silent. It was still an unbelievable circumstance and the fact Dewey recorded a whole message, knowing he wasn’t gonna make it out.. no one needed to say anything to express their heartbreak. The tears and small breaths said it all.

His hologram began to talk again, “Everyone want’s a happy ending right? It’s what we all expect. It’s what we’re all told. But something people don’t talk about is that there are a variety of happy endings, and ours is one of them. I’m hoping that if you guys play this, it’s in celebration, of your happy endings.” The hologram smirked and stood up, “And I hope there are some tears shed for ol’ Dewford here but you get what I’m saying.-

“That’s how I Dewey it.” Everyone said, along side Dewey’s hologram.

Light and heartful chuckles filled the room as everyone exchanged smiles. He brought them back together. If Dewey were here, he’d be smiling too. He always wanted to be the glue that held the family together, and he’s being just that, even if he’s not really present.

Dewey’s hologram began to walk around, “In all honesty guys, I hope families are reunited, ours included. I hope that we.. somehow, someway get a normal version of our planet restored.. if there ever was such thing.. I have no idea I’m not geologist.. I think that’s what it’s called.” He paused, “This world.. is strange man.. If you would’ve told me ten years ago that we weren’t alone.. especially to this extent.. Seriously I feel like we get a new member every week.. I wouldn’t  have been surprised. I mean, think about it. All the forces of darkness and light that have come into play the past decade? And for better or worse… that’s the reality Skye, Chase and Danny are gonna have to grow up in…”

He sighed and his hologram walked toward his brothers, “Like I said before, I found time to record this goodbye… in case of an untimely death on my part.. I mean not that death is untimely.. it happens to all of us eventually.. And this whole time travel thing that we’re gonna try to do tomorrow it’s.. It’s got me scratching my head about this.. But I want you all to understand that I’m going into this adventure and mission like it’s my last, because it might actually be. I don’t want any of you to blame yourselves for what happens to me, looking at you Webby.” The hologram pointed at his wife and she gave a sad smile, “This is the hero gig right? Part of the journey is the end. And I have this feeling that everything is gonna work out exactly the way it’s suppose to.”

“Huey and Louie.. who I hope are standing here when this plays or else I’m gonna look stupid.” His brothers laughed, and lucky enough they were right in front of his hologram. “My dear brothers… what a ride this has been huh? I mean who would’ve thought the world and.. the whole universe would lay on our shoulders.. I sure didn’t. It’s a honor, really, and being able to go through this whole adventure with you two.. has been the greatest honor of all. Thank you both for being by my side, and helping me learn what it’s like to be a true hero. You have been fantastic brothers. Huey, I hope you have been reunited with Shelly and the two of you have great future, just know I will be there on your wedding night. Keep an eye on the cake.” He winked, “Thanks for being my voice of reason when Louie and I couldn’t exactly see eye to eye.”

Dewey’s hologram turned to Louie, “Oh Louie. We have had an… interesting past few years. Conflicting views, secrets, lies, betrayals. Yeah.. it hasn’t been easy between us but… I want you to know that.. when all this is over.. we’re okay. Everything we’ve been through has brought us to this point and.. you deserve a fantastic future. I love both of you.”

The hologram hugged the two of them, but because it was a hologram, they couldn’t exactly hug back but that didn’t stop the tears that formed in their eyes and fell down their cheeks. Dewey’s hologram pulled away sniffling, “Now.. here’s the harder part…” They all watched as he walked in front of Webby.

Her throat tighten and she held Skye close against her chest while Danny held her arm with Chase holding him. “Webby, Webby, Webby..” He paused and chuckled, “Barely even started and I’m already crying… that’s what’s making this whole thing hard.. is knowing that.. I’m leaving you.. and I don’t want to do that.. this part..” He gestured between them, “This is what sucks about all this because.. I still want more time to be your husband.. I want to continue to be a father.. I want to be the role model our children deserve… but it seems it’s not gonna work out the way we planned.. when does it ever? God Webby.. I… I just.. ugh! This goodbye is harder than I ever thought..” He rubbed his face, “Okay okay..” He knelt down and looked at Webby, “Again I hope you’re in front of me.. Webbigail Vanderquack Duck… man… words cannot even begin to describe how much I love you and how much this pains me.. I wouldn’t be where I am without you.. all these years together.. as friends, as daters, lovers, husband and wife and as parents… you’ve brought out the best in me.. and I wouldn’t change a thing from what we have been through. All the dark times, all the tears, laughs and smiles, it made us who we are.” He blinked and his tears continued to fall, “I truly do wish there was another ending for us… but it’s like you said.. not everyone is that lucky.. Webby, I’m so sorry.. for the pain and confusion you’re going through.. I know this is gonna hurt you.. but I’m always with you, whether it’s our rings, your necklace, or even our kids.. I’m right here.. I’ll always be here when you need me.. Those three are our legacy and I know you are going to continue to be a fantastic mother, and I know you’re gonna be there to guide Nathan as well. Never stop being the strong, independent women you are, Webby. And one last thing.” His hologram leaned forward, “I’ll always love you. Know, that I lived and walked on this Earth loving you and that I will die, still loving you.” His holographic hand held her cheek and he kissed her forehead.

Webby bit her beak, holding back her sob that had been building up throughout Dewey’s entire speech. Tears poured our of her eyes and she sniffed. She didn’t expect this to happen so soon.. but his message gave her comfort, and she was sure he had more recordings, this is Dewey after all, duck likes to talk.

He turned to his children, smiling at them. The trio stared at their father’s hologram both in confusion and awe. “Kids… I know right now you might not know what’s going on.. but I can assure you, one day you will. Thank you for being my three little blessings on this planet. I couldn’t have asked for better children to call my own. When you guys are older, there are some messages I left to help you guys in case of an emergency or you just wanna talk. Until then, Skye. Chase. Danny-.”

“I love you 3000.”

With that, the hologram shut off and the room was filled once again with silence and sniffles. Webby looked down at her wedding ring and smiled sadly,

“We love you 3000 too Dewey, always.”

[amnachil]

To the Perfection Chapter 2 Part 4

The next part for you guys :) More drama and... more drama that’s all.

Cody Thursday March 28

Wanting to please Thomas was a good idea. But hell if Cody knew how to do it. Now that he was convinced Ilhan and his crush were a thing he had decided to try his luck too. But the ginger literally hated him. He had tried everything... He had been coming to the gym with Joël in hope to have a training session the three of them together. He had tried his best during soccer's practice. But the truth was : Thomas didn't need him. He has a whole life without me. I wonder when I became an old memory for him... There was no point to ask any advice to Joël. He's nice and all but... Not very bright. So the teenager tried to spy on Ilhan. After all, his friend had succeeded to conquer Thomas's heart one way or another. But there was absolutely nothing special about him. Sure he was devoted, sweet and caring but Cody was all that too. And I know Thomas since kindergarten... And that was why this evening, Cody had came up with his ultimate plan. There was one person on earth who knew Thomas maybe better than Thomas himself. And luckily, this person would be back in two days for the weekend. The young teenager knocked at the Muller's door, a bit stressed. His ginger friend wasn't supposed to come back before hours. Because he's at Ilhan's place... Raphaël's boyfriend opened.

"Hi." greeted Cody. "You may not recognise me. I'm one of Thomas's friend ?"

The other nodded.

"Sorry but he's not here right now." he smiled.

"Well, that's not a problem since I didn't came to talk to him... Hum I was just... Well I don't know how to say it."

Dan looked at him curiously. He was a very chubby lad. Buff too. A great mix of fat and muscle to be fair, and Cody wouldn't put in a fight with him.

"I just wanted to talk to Raphaël this weekend about something..." he revealed. "I was just wondering if you could tell him that ? He doesn't answer his phone."

"Yeah, he's not in the country." replied the other. "And don't worry, I'll tell him. He should have some free time on saturday late afternoon."

"Nice. Thank you. Bye."

Cody left right away. This is my only chance. I need Raphaël to reveal me some intel about his sibling...

He was almost home when he recieved a text. Weird. Nobody ever texts me. But the content was even more surprising. Joël had sent him a link to the group chat of the class. Should I be offended I havn't been invited before ? He suddenly saw the photos. Thomas and Ilhan talking under the trees. Kissing. Going home. Jessica had posted a lot of them with a big caption :

< They're a couple ! So cool for our captain !!!! >

It hurt. Cody's heart clenched and he felt a wave of sadness take hold of him. This is nothing new. I already knew that. But it became more real now. He read Joël's text.

< Jo : OhMigOd ThoMy Is gAy !! ILhAn toO ! WhAt do You tHinK ?!! >

I feel like shit. I want to puke. All these years he had restrained his feelings because he thought Thomas was interested in girls. And now that they were growing apart, the love of his life happened to be into men. Another message popped in.

< Jo : I thInk thisis CoOl ! BuT Man ThomY coUd havE tOld uS ! >

Note for later : teach Joël how to type on a cellphone... Well of course their friend hadn't tell them. Because they weren't friends anymore. Barely acquaintances. We don't know him anymore. He finally replied.

< Cody : I hope they will be fine with this huge revelation. This is not a silly topic and Jessica did something bad. You should not talk to them about it before they agree to talk openly. >

< Jo : ToO Late !! xoxo TexTed Tomy. He SaiD iT wAs finE. He'S oky ! >

Cody shut off his phone. So it was fine ? I don't want to think about it anymore. Fine... They were a couple and it was fine if everyone knew about it. What are my chances in these conditions ? He decided to cry only when he was locked in his bedroom.

Dan Saturday March 30

Everything looked different when you were next to the person you loved. Dan couldn't say how happy he was to have Raphaël back. It's only for two days, but it feels so damn good. The morning went perfectly. Same for lunch time : it looked like the two brothers had made peace now. Thomas was smiling perfectly and acting nicely. So the college student couldn't picture what could go wrong. At least until Cody showed up. The teenager sat in the living room with Raphaël. He was obviously stressed, even shaking a bit. Well, Dan wasn't the most observant people on earth but he had noted how Thomas was staring at his "friend". The way he had tensed up when this one had came inside. There is something bad going on between them.

"You wanted to talk with me." smiled Raphaël. "I'm all ears."

"Yeah well... Sorry if I'm bothering you. I'll make it short."

"The faster, the better." approved Thomas. "My brother gets only two day for himself."

His comment brought a cold look from Raphaël and Cody became even more discomforted.

"It's just... I was worried about Thomas. I fear how our classmates will react to his forced coming out. I mean when the photo of him and Ilhan together went out, people were crazy. I don't want anyone to hurt him."

A blank followed. Dan blinked, stunned. Wait. I need time to process. Thomas's forced coming out ? Thomas and Ilhan ? The reaction of people ? A feeling of deja-vu made him uneasy. His own experience had been kinda similar. Next to him, Thomas sighed. He was apparently annoyed. Raphaël on the other hand didn't move an inch. He was like frozen.

"Uh... Did I said something bad ?" asked Cody.

"No." whispered the eldest brother. "I understand what you're saying. Being gay can be perceived as a sin and people can be very intolerant about it. Thomas must be very happy to have a friend like you who support him through this. Especially if his coming out wasn't... planned."

He glanced at his sibling who looked away.

"I'm also very happy for you Thomas." he continued. "It's nice to know you find someone you... can show affection to."

Dan frowned. It was very difficult to know what Raphaël was thinking. He's so impassive, so apathetic. I think he's trying very hard to show an emotion but he's failing.

"Maybe... Maybe you should discuss about it with Thomas himself." suggested Raphaël. "Oh and Dan can help, he had a similar experience. I will just... Go away."

When the college student arrived in the bedroom an hour later, his boyfriend was laying in the bed, covered by the blanket. Thomas, despite being a bit mad, had tried to be nice and he had explained things to Cody and Dan. So they're a couple for one month now. Well honestly I'm not that surprised.

"Can you close the door ?" asked Raphaël. "The light is bothering me."

His cold tone alerted Dan who obeyed diligently. He laid next to his man and passed an harm around his shoulders.

"Are you alright ?" he whispered.

Only silent. No he's not. But the brown lad didn't know why exactly. Yes it was quite a big thing but there were no reason to be in one hell of a state right ? Thomas was gay and he dated a classmate. It was all good news !

"Are you worried about your brother ?" he asked. "I know very well it can be scary but he's fine. He has friend who care about him. A wonderful and supportive brother. There is nothing common between my coming out and his. I can even ask Darren to watch him at school and..."

Raphaël suddenly raise his head. His face was particulary cold.

"You talked with Darren ?" he mumbled with a scaring voice.

"Well yeah ? He's my bestfriend remember ? Oh yeah I told you he was distant lately but we're better now. He was just having some doubts about himself."

His boyfriend dug his head in his soft chest.

"This is a shitty day." he whispered. "I just want to sleep."

"Okay. Come here baby."

Thomas Sunday March 31

"So... urp. We're... urp... boyfriend now ?"

"It has been a month. If people ask, tell them this."

Ilhan rolled his eyes. He swallowed the spoonful of jelly Thomas was giving him. A belly rub made him moan.

"I got that." he said. "But are we boyfriend boyfriend or what ?"

The ginger gave him a dirty look. How stupid can he be ?

"We're pretending to be a couple." he explained. "If people ask, we're dating. Isn't it clear enough ?"

With his two hands he pushed the other onto the mattress. He had a better view of his swollen stomach now. It looks nicely stuffed.

"Wait. Does that mean you love me now ?" asked again Ilhan.

"Heck do I look like I love you man ? You're gross."

While speaking, Thomas unbuttoned Ilhan's pants and stroked his dick. I'm sure he can fit at least one more pie.

"And why are we pretending again ?"

"That's defenitely not your business."

There were several reasons for it. First of all, even if he hated to admit it, Thomas needed to fuck someone to avoid any tragic accident with Dan. And Ilhan was better than a nobody. Secondly, now that everyone knew about their thing, it was easier to pretend to be a couple. And finally Raphaël wouldn't suspect that his brother has a huge (really huge) crush on his boyfriend if he was dating someone else. Thomas cut the pie.

"This is simple." he stated. "You continue to be exactly what you're : a perfect little piggy who is craving to be fucked. And at school be the same. Don't try to be sweet or to show affection, it would be sickening."

"O... Okay."

"Now let's finish this pie. I want the nurse to be horrified tomorrow when she realises you weight 86 kg (190 pounds) of pure blubber."

When he headed home on late afternoon, Thomas was thinking. He had made the best of this bad situation. I should have known people would eventually find out. Cody had truly screwed up this time. This useless stupid leech would pay for this one way or an other. But at least, now Raphaël knew and more importantly, Dan too. All I need now is to be better than my brother. He was coming closer to his home when he felt a cold. His surroundings were freezing. Or maybe it was only in his head.

"I told you to not talk to him ever again." a very, very (very) cold tone resonated. "Do I need to repeat myself ?"

Thomas decided it was better to hide. He ran behind the nearest tree and looked around. Raphaël was talking with Darren. I knew there was something fishy.

"Look, you're mad, I get it." assured the science teacher. "And you despise me, fair enough. But Dan is my bestfriend and I won't let him down. We're having fun together, I'm not a threat anymore !"

Anymore ?! What does that mean ? This is so interesting ! The temperature seemed to decrease. Everything looked about to die of exposure. Thomas had already lived such a phenomenon once. A very long time ago, when their father had almost hit their mother. Raphaël, 8 at the time, had ordered him to stop. He had been emitting the same aura back then and now. Needless to say, their father had never even raised his voice again.

"There is no way I let you hang out with my boyfriend." said the ginger.

His tone was deadly cold. Thomas almost see frost spead around him. It was frankly terrifying and he shivered. He would face the same dreadful voice if Raphaël discovered his plan to steal Dan's love from him.

"I assure you I'm not the same person than in middle school !" whined Darren with fear. "I beg you. I just want to be his friend. I won't tell him about us, never."

About what now ?! Thomas was clearly afraid of his brother but he smiled anyway. His science teacher and Raphaël had been a couple ! That was the best thing he could have asked for ! Man, I already picture Dan getting jealous... Raph getting mad... And when my dear love realise how scary he is... This is it. It was his perfect plan. He only needed proof.

To be continued

Cody is depressed because he has a crush on the most perfect person in the world... Although a lot of people would think otherwise. Ilhan being the first in line ;)

Anyway, our young ginger found a weakness to his dangerous (magical ?) brother. How will he exploit it ? Raphaël doesn’t seems good, but it’s only the beginning of his problems.

For those who wonder, Liam (MC of the College Society) believes Raphaël is a mutant. And maybe he’s right, because this is some terrifying aura that he has here.

[favouriteentertainer-blog]

Chapter 4 - And I Can't Tell You Why, Because My Brain Can't Equate It

“lost in the moment, with no words to speak” 

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 

“Um Kali—“ Zayn had been pumping for at least 5 minutes but the mattress refused to inflate. “There’s definitely a puncture in this.” He held up the tattered mattress and shoved his fist inside the giant hole I’d clearly had no idea about.

“Oh—“ I bit my lip, “so that’s what my brother meant when he said it was slightly damaged.” I slapped my hand to my forehead in frustration—I’d paid him 25 pound for the stupid thing.

“Yeah,” he continued to fiddle with the hole, “just slightly—“ he managed to shove his whole arm up there.

The two of us burst into a fit of laughter as he lobbed it across the room. As we laughed, I noticed that when he smiled—genuinely smiled, his eyes crinkled by their sides, it was a small detail, but I loved it.

“Fuck,” he spoke as we settled down, “what are we gonna do?” He leaned back on his forearms, showing off the waist I’d been enamoured with earlier.

I grabbed my water bottle from beside me and stared down at my tiny bed as I unscrewed the lid.

“You know I won’t do any weird shit if you let me up there right.” He was talking about my bed. I did know he wouldn’t, I trusted him. In the short time I’d known him, he’d been nothing but good and genuine.

“I dunno—“ I bit at my lip nervously, before remembering that there was nothing going on between us, and it would be fine because he didn’t like me the way I liked him. “I guess I could tolerate it, but the fact that I’ll be shit scared tonight cause of the movie we watched does contribute.”

“I’ll protect you don’t worry,” he winked before pulling his shirt off. He was already in a tattered pair of football shorts so I guessed he was fine to sleep in those. I could never understand how boys slept in so little clothing.

“Thank you I’ll need it.” I was dead serious, if he wasn’t staying the night I 500% already would’ve been in Hailee’s bed, or AJ’s if he was home. “You have to take the wall side.” I got out of the bed so he could jump in.

“Thanks, I’m gonna suffocate and die.” He spoke sarcastically as he jumped in.

“Wonderful, that’s just what I wanted.” I tried to put myself in a position where we weren’t touching, but it was impossible—my single bed was too tiny.

“I won’t bite,” he whispered, “you can come closer—“ his arm snaked around my waist as he tried to pull me in.

“Shut up.” I slapped his hand away. My body was giddy. I hated him. I readjusted myself so that I was actually in a comfortable position, but not too touchy.

There was an awkward silence for about 5 seconds before he said goodnight.

My head was turned away from his, so he couldn’t the look of utter confusion on my face as I pondered what to do—and then I decided, in what can only be described as a bold choice of movements to grab his arm and wrap it around me. “Goodnight,” I whispered back, he shuffled lightly and I could almost feel the smile creep onto his face as he pulled me closer.

—

I couldn’t help but feel guilty when I woke up. What the fuck was I doing? Was I really that disjointed after my breakup that I was losing my mind? The thought didn’t surpass me. I had let the beautiful specimen spoon me, but he had wanted to spoon me? Was it a platonic spoon? I had no idea, everything was too much for me to think about. I wished the earth would swallow me whole so I could avoid overthinking it.

I grabbed my phone to check the time—it was only 8:30am, I hadn���t even had a full 8 hours. My body 100% had noted the awkward thoughts inside my head and instead of letting me avoid them by dreaming of sunshine and happiness, my brain woke me up.

I scrolled through the messages I’d received whilst I was asleep—and almost choked when I saw one from Dan.

“Can’t stop thinking about us and what happened, please meet me, you’ve avoided my calls all week. I don’t know what else to do.”

I was ready to gag—after hearing about all my friends’ deep-rooted hatred for him I couldn’t even stand the sight of his name. I had been doing so well at avoiding him, but that was because he’d only called me twice and I knew his class schedule, so it was easy to make sure I wasn’t in the same place at the same time—when I really thought about it, I was actually surprised he hadn’t messaged me earlier.

“Go back to sleep,” Zayn grumbled from beside me, his arm moving me lightly so he could get his message across.

“Sorry,” I whispered as I wriggled back into position. My heart didn’t even backflip—I mentally patted myself on the back. Who would’ve thought that it’d take one night in bed and an annoying text from Dan to get me out of my funk.

I knew I had time, so I slowly let myself drift back to sleep—I told myself that I was going to enjoy the moment—not spend it thinking about why it was wrong or weird, I was doing that far too often when all I needed to do was appreciate what was happening.

—

The alarm that I’d set the night before for 10:30am blared through my room and I almost punched myself in the face—except I couldn’t because I tangled between Zayn’s limbs. I had latched on—more than latched—I was holding on for dear life.

“Why god?” He muttered to himself as the sound of my alarm assaulted his ears—he was still half asleep.

I quickly detached myself from him, hoping he’d be so thick with sleep he’d think it was just a dream. When I’d allowed my brain to detach from awkward thoughts at 8am it must’ve gone straight back to “boyfriend in my bed mode” and just done whatever it damn felt like.

I sat up and grabbed my water bottle from the bedside table.

“You are so cute when you sleep.” He slowly moved to sit up, grabbing the bottle from me in the process.

“Many would say the same.” I rolled my eyes.

“Many?” He raised an eyebrow, “you’ve had one vanilla boyfriend for the past three years.” It was an attack that I did not need to hear.

“Wow,” I narrowed my eyes as I watched him gulp down MY water, whilst he insulted me “savage.”

“So, I’m right?” He smirked. He was right, the facts were too real, but I wasn’t going to admit that to him.

“Shut up.” I snatched the bottle back.

“You were 100% scared last night.” He grinned as if it were something to be excited about.

“No, I wasn’t.” I wasn’t lying, I had no recollection of what I’d dreamt about—which in my eyes was a great thing, because if I had been scared, I didn’t have to re-live the terrifying scenes.

“Uhhhh, you definitely were, you spent the whole night holding onto me the way you had been just then.” Dammit, I mentally cursed—he had realised. “I’d say you let go for maybe two hours.” He was loving the fact that me in my dream state needed him. “I’m pretty sure you were like crying at one stage too.”

I wanted to let out a loud groan internally, but my body wasn’t functioning properly, so I let it out externally. I was embarrassed, so, so, so embarrassed. How could my brain have let me down like that? Sometimes I was my own worst enemy.

“It’s okay. I didn’t mind.” He smiled the smile that told me he was genuine, but I just couldn’t smile back—I was the fucking worst.

A knock on my door, startled me—my brain went to push Zayn off the bed, but there was nowhere to push him off, instead, I pushed him straight into the wall.

“Owwww,” he groaned as he rubbed his shoulder. The knock came again—his eyes darted between me, the door and his shoulder. “Come in” he called out without warning, as if he were trying to punish me for hurting him.

I gasped in horror as my door creaked opened—I didn’t know what to do so I flung myself off my bed and onto the floor. Hailee stood in my doorway eyeing me down, she then looked towards my bed where Zayn was waving at her like the little demon he was.

“What are you doing on the floor?” She questioned.

“Um, nothing.” I patted the carpet, “I slept here.” I was not being convincing, especially because she’d probably heard me hit the damn floor with a ‘thud’.

“Right, Okay. Well—I heard your alarm and wanted to know if you guys wanted to get breakfast.” She was watching me carefully, I was still stroking the carpet. “Will you get up.” She scolded me.

I pouted as I rose to my feet and sat myself on the edge of the bed, making sure to also elbow Zayn in the ribs. He let out a grunt in pain and I smiled in satisfaction—that would teach him not to play games with me.

“Yes we can go for breakfast.” I agreed, I turned to Zayn, “Do you wanna come?” I was inviting him out of courtosey, but deep down I wanted a little break so that I could get my thoughts assembled.

“I can’t,” he said regretfully, “I gotta get to work at 12.” He was still holding onto his rib.

“That’s a shame,” Hailee lied. She loved that he wouldn’t be attending, because she wanted to milk me for goss. “I’ll ask Lily and AJ if they wanna join.” When she said that I knew she was really assembling the gang for a big, fat gossip.

“Do you know if he’s home?” Zayn asked, “cause if he isn’t I’m wearing Kali’s clothes to work.” He was joking, I hoped—I wouldn’t put something like that past him. He would also 100% fit in my clothes, if anyone fit the saying “snap like a twig” it was him.

“He’s home,” she laughed lightly.

“Wonderful,” he shuffled past me to hop off the bed. “See you girls later, thanks for letting me crash.” He pulled his shirt over his head and grabbed his phone before sauntering out like a nobody.

As soon as I heard my front door close I let out the loudest groan of frustration and feel back onto my bed.

“Okay,” Hailee took a seat beside me, “are you gonna tell me what the fuck I just witnessed? I know you didn’t sleep on this bloody floor.” I knew I hadn’t convinced her.

“Ohhhhhhh, I’m so done for.” I clapped my hands to my face. “Nothing happened, promise, we just slept in the same bed cause the fucking mattress had a hole in it.” I was honestly going to kill my brother, but also send him a thank you letter.

“Then why are you done for?!” She asked as if it weren’t blatantly obvious.

“Because I think I REALLY like him, and we’re out here sharing a bed platonically and I was latched onto him for the whole damn night.” I was just spouting words, I didn’t even know if they made sense. “And he held my handdddddd—“ I whined, “he held my hand in the scary parts—Dan never did that. AND DAN,” I’d forgotten about Daniel completely. “DAN SENT ME A MESSAGE THIS MORNING SAYING HE WANTS TO TALK.” I was almost on the verge of tears, I was having a nervous breakdown. It was warranted, but unexpected all the same.

“I don’t know how you think he doesn’t like you.” She shook her head, “I think he likes you as much as you like him.”

“OR—“ I stopped her, “he’s just a really great friend.” I nervously played with the hem of my PJ top. The whole situation was making me feel sick.

“I dunno,” she sighed, both were pretty valid and I was 100% leaning towards my option.

I knew that I caught feelings too easily, someone could hold the door open for me and I’d fall in love—which explained why I’d dated Dan for three years, cause he was the only one who was interested. Zayn has only known me for approximately 5 days, there was no way he was feeling what I was feeling, I knew he was purely in it for friendship.

“Let’s just go eat,” I cried, “I need an eggs benny to cheer me up.” There were few things that could cheer me up, but food and friendship were definitely certain to make me feel better.

—

“Soooo,” AJ smirked as soon as he sat down at the table—he was staring directly at me.

“What?” Lily asked him, she had no idea what was going on.

“You and my cousin huh?” He was still talking directly at me, a stupid smile etched on his face.

“Your cousin and my foot up his ass.” I replied, “he’s so annoying.” I was worried, because I didn’t know if Zayn had said anything to him. If he had told him we’d slept in the same bed I’d be done for, but Zayn seemed pretty private.

“Oh cmon,” AJ waved off my comment, “you guys, so cute.” He was joking, but I wished he wasn’t. “You know he’s single right?

“Am I missing something here?” Lily continued to question us.

“Zayn is AJ’s cousin, but other than that nothing else.” Hailee informed her. I was glad she hadn’t brought up what had happened in the morning, I would’ve died if she had.

“Wow.” Lily shook her head, “small world.”

“Indeed,” AJ agreed. “And what about you Hailee, what’s new? Give us an update on your love life.” He flipped through the menu as he interrogated her.

“My love life is a shit hole, honestly just don’t know what’s going on—men are trash.” She sighed heavily and picked up her phone to scroll through messages.

“Amen.” I agreed, “Dan wants me to meet up with him.” I informed Lily and AJ.

“You should go,” AJ said.

“What?! Why?!” I was completely stumped, “you hate him.”

“You should go and tell him why you don’t want to be with him anymore, remind him how shit he is and crush his heart into tiny little pieces.” He spoke the words nonchalantly as he sipped on his water.

“Harsh,” Hailee commented, she hated conflict and being overly mean.

“I like it,” Lily nodded, “break him down.” She made a fist with her hand and squeezed.

“I wouldn’t even know what to say?!” I picked at my sweater. The polyester was starting to bead and I really needed a new one, but I was having trouble finding ones that fit me as nicely as the one I was wearing did.  

“How about, why didn’t you ever hold my hand during scary movies?” Hailee suggested—my leg moved to kick her so quickly it was unbelievable. She let out a small chuckle and I shook my head. The other two didn’t even pretend to figure out what she was trying to say.

“We should go to this event tomorrow night—“ AJ completely changed the topic, “I wanna take Zayn out.”

“Surely he’s been out on campus?” I raised an eyebrow. There was so much to do and I was pretty sure he’d been around longer than us.

“Nah, he’s been cuffed up for the past 3 years, hasn’t gotten out much. She was very controlling.” AJ waved the waiter over, and we all pretended like we didn’t see what he was doing—He was very impatient when it came to restaurants, the type of impatient that made you uncomfortable.

“Jheeze, I wonder who else has been living that way?” Hailee murmured as they all looked towards me.

“Lies!” I disagreed, “I used to come out with you guys.” I never missed any of their parties or events. I may not have gone out excessively when I was dating Dan, but I made sure I was always there for them.

“Not often.” Aj fired back. “Which is why we should push you two fresh singles out into the open.” He loved playing love guru and it killed me.

“I’m down for going out, I was never opposed to this idea—“ I had no idea why the plan was falling back on me.

“Then it’s settled, we go out.” He winked. “I’ll buy the tickets, you guys can just give me the cash.” I could see him opening up the facebook page to make the purchase—the devil worked hard, but he worked harder. The boy knew what he wanted in life and I did admire it. -

“Hey K—“ my room door was left slightly ajar, leaving room for my flatmate Kathy to pop her head in. “Ooooooooo,” she stared at me from head to toe, “you look lovely, haven’t seen you dressed up in a long time.” She shimmied into my room, a bottle of wine in her hand.

I let out a light laugh as I continued to swipe powder across my face. “Thank you, what’s up?” She never came to see me unless she needed to borrow something.

“Do you have any nice perfume I can borrow, I’m out?” She was surveying herself in my mirror and I watched on curiously as she pulled down on her eyelid and stared at it—I had no idea what she was doing but didn’t question it. I could also smell her red wine breath from where she was standing and it made me feel slightly sick.

“Mmmmmmm, yeah—“ I handed her a bottle of Victoria’s Secret body spray that had been laying in my cupboard for a year and a half. I was never going to use it so I was fine with letting her go for it. “Here you go, use as much as you want.”

“Thanks! You’re a legend. Will return it later—“ She waltzed out of my room, I knew she wasn’t going to return it. She never returned my stuff, and if she did it was weirdly disfigured—hence why I’d gotten into the habit of giving her stuff I didn’t use.

I stared at myself in the mirror—I looked good, I really did, but I couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that it just wasn’t good enough. I really wanted to look amazing, but I felt like my whole look had turned out average.

My mind always seemed to remind me that there would be someone skinnier or prettier—someone who people would look at and their jaws would drop—I wasn’t that person, I bloody tried my best to be her, but my inner demons didn’t let me forget that I wasn’t enough. Things had been easier when I was with Dan, he was always there to remind me that I was okay enough to be with. He didn’t boost my morale much with his words, but his presence had helped. Ever since I had admitted to myself and Hailee that I did like Zayn, things were a bit harder for me. It was going to be much harder to try and make him like me, especially because he was significantly better looking than Dan and there was no doubt that girls would be throwing themselves at him.

I felt dejected as I ruffled my through my hair one more time—it was way too thin and made my head look rounder than it was, purely because it was so flat. I touched up my eyeliner before stepping back—it was the last time I was going to look at myself. I wasn’t going to think about changing, even though the thought had run through my mind 500 times. I swept over my bodysuit where some stray power had fallen and hiked up my jeans—I reminded myself that I was fine, grabbed my purse, made my bed and headed into the lounge.

“Fuck meeeeee,” Lily called as I stepped into the lounge area, “you look fit as hell! Loving the titties.” She was referring to the plunge in my bodysuit. I looked down and smiled, she’d already made me feel ten times better than I had when I’d left my room.

“Agree.” Hailee nodded, passing me my bottle of wine as I took a seat next to AJ.

“I mean, I’d say the hair needs work, but other than that you look fine.” He tried to reach for my hair but I swatted his hand away. That was as close to a compliment as I’d ever get.

“Thank you, I love you all.” My friends knew how to ease my mind when I was my own worst enemy.

“See this is so nice,” Hailee said intently as she watched me unscrew the lid on my bottle. “We haven’t gotten drunk like this in so long!” They were more than ready for me to break my sobriety.

I took a sip of my wine and gagged—the first sip was always the worst. “Hopefully I do not vomit tonight.” I hadn’t been drunk in so long, my tolerance was at an all-time low and the danger levels were high.

“Remember when you vomited in your own hair and asked whose vomit it was? Classic!” Hailee had cracked herself up and almost spilt her drink as she rocked back in laughter.

“Ha ha ha,” I tried not to laugh, but it was so hard to hold it in—I really did the most to embarrass myself.

“Where’s Zayn?” I turned to ask AJ who was scrolling through the playlist he’d curated. I had expected him to be out in the lounge already and had mentally prepared myself to see him.

“Having a fag.” His eyes didn’t budge from the screen.

I nodded, despite the fact that he wasn’t looking at me and took another swig of my wine. I was terrified to see him, I knew that in the back of my mind I just wanted him to think I looked good and I hated myself for it. I wasn’t supposed to be dressing for someone else, I was supposed to be living my life for me and me only.

As if right on cue the front door opened and I suddenly glued my eyes to my phone. I didn’t want to look at him, but it was inevitable when he sat himself right next to me.

“Alright?” He smiled, he stank of fresh air and stale cigarette smoke. I wished it would’ve made him look more putrid, but it didn’t, it made him look ten times better.

“Good, you?” I panicked and drank more wine. He looked effortlessly good in his skinny jeans, black t-shirt and leather jacket—I was so weak it was sad, I didn’t want to stop looking at him. He wore the same thing to work, but there was something so different about it in the damn setting we were in.

“Yeah fine,” he ran a hand through his hair and picked up a beer from the table. “You look nice by the way, is this a post break-up revenge look?” he leaned forward to grab the bottle opener. His eyes floated to my boobs as he moved  and I pretended not to notice.

“No, I have no need for that.” I scrolled through my Instagram feed. I could feel my face heating up and I was hoping with everything I had that I wasn’t turning even slightly pink.

“Don’t lie,” AJ finally set his phone down. “Dan texted her this morning saying he wants to talk, and she knows he’s going to be there tonight, hence the look.” He hit Zayn upside the head and from the corner of my eyes I watched him signal that his eyes needed to be up not down. Zayn didn’t even respond, he just shook his head and returned back to his phone.

“Are we forgetting that I broke up with him?” I threw my hands into the air, “I have nothing to prove to that loser!” I didn’t even know Dan was going to be in attendance. He could suck my big toe for all I cared—as the days went by I was realising how much better life was without him beside me. When I was in “love” I mistook his controlling ways as affection.

“But you’re gonna crush his soul with the way you look tonight.” Lily nodded, my gal was always in support of everything I did.

Zayn chuckled as he took a sip, “I’ve opened a can of worms.”

“Like always.” I rolled my eyes and chugged down more wine—I was definitely in for a long night. “You all look great tonight by the way, I’m so glad to have such an attractive group of best friends.” It wasn’t even a compliment for the sake of friendship, I really meant what I said.

“I always look good.” Zayn smirked.

“I said best friends.” I took another sip of wine. “You’re not.” I patted him on the back and got back to what I was doing, pretending like I didn’t care when I really did.

“So you don’t wanna be friends?” He asked, running a finger over my knee.

“I didn’t say that.” I grabbed his hand and moved it away.

“Okay little miss goddess, we’ll see.”

—

I hadn’t been out in so long that I’d actually forgotten how to conduct myself in a club. I just stood in the middle of the dance floor for a second, a bit dazed and confused. I was still with Lily and Hailee, AJ had gone for a cigarette and Zayn had disappeared.

I was bobbing my head to what I assumed was EDM music and just tried my best to vibe with it. I was drunk, real drunk, but it was a good buzz that I hadn’t felt in a while. It didn’t however stop me from being pissed off that Zayn had practically run away. We’d been at the club for 2 hours and he hadn’t come back once, my feelings were hurt—but I wasn’t surprised, I knew my efforts to look good had been in vain.

I wondered a little away from the girls for a second, wanting to head over to the bar to get myself another drink—but before I could even move 10 steps a hand grabbed my wrist from behind. I spiralled around to see who it was and almost fell straight onto my arse.

“Hey babe,” Dan tried to pull me in for a hug, but I backed away. I had no idea why he thought he had permission to hug me.

“Hey,” I shouted over the music as I wriggled my wrist free. “You alright?” I asked out of common courtesy—I didn’t really care how he was.

“Yeah,” he leaned in to speak to me so he didn’t have to shout, “can we go out into the smokers area to have a chat?” He was disgustingly close, and it made my skin crawl. I honestly did not know how I’d coped when he was around me 24/7.

I thought about his proposition for a second and was about to say no—but I also knew that if I didn’t say yes, he’d keep annoying me, so I nodded and began to lead the way. It wasn’t going to kill me to try and have a chat with him, but I also knew deep down that I probably wouldn’t listen to a word he was going to say. I loved myself for the ability to tune him out.

As we walked, I made sure to maintain my distance, I did not want him getting any sort of impression. When we hit the corner I had to stop in my tracks—my feet rooted themselves into the ground and I honestly felt like someone had slapped me straight on the face. I was being confronted by Zayn with his tongue down someone else’s throat and all I could do was stare. I wasn’t even subtly staring, I was stood there, my mouth wide open and my heart pounding in my chest as I watched him snog the pink haired beauty. All I could see was her side profile, but I knew she’d have to be out of this world beautiful if she was kissing him.

My heart didn’t know how to feel—part of me said “I told you, you weren’t good enough” and the other part said “you’re actually crazy, the two of you are just friends.” My chest felt heavy, the weight could not be described. I could feel the lump in my throat begin to rise, and I couldn’t do anything except continue to watch.

“Why have you stopped—“ Dan continued to push me forward. Zayn stayed in his spot, not even noticing me. “C’mon,” he leaped in front of me and pulled me forward.

“No,” I groaned as I pulled back. I didn’t want to talk to anyone in that moment, let alone to him. “I don’t want to talk to you, just fuck off and leave me alone.” I knew I was snapping and was slightly out of line, but I didn’t care. “Just get over it, you treated me like shit and you were fucking boring—I don’t want to be with you Dan, get over it.” I balled my hands into fists and stormed off—I’d left him standing there gobsmacked—he was too shocked to even chase after me.

I rounded the corner and found my way back to Hailee and Lily, I bounced my way back to beside them and tried my best to pretend nothing was wrong. “I’m gonna get a drink,” I told them, “does anyone want one?” I was moving into damage control and I didn’t even care—situations like the one I was in could only be fixed by alcohol.

They both shook their heads and I nodded. I stormed towards the bar and bitterly ordered myself a vodka red bull. As soon as I got it I almost chugged it down.

“Fuck it all.” I mumbled to myself, “just fuck it all.” There was honestly nothing worth looking forward to. I had ruined everything.

“Finally!” AJ grabbed my arm, “where were you?!” He’d emerged from the smoking area and had the audacity to ask where I’d been.

“No where,” I slurred, “I’ve been right here.”

“Okay, well I’m pissed,” he confessed.

“Me too—“ I held up my glass to show off the already half emptied drink.

“No—“ he snatched it from me to take a sip “like I’m livid.”

“Oh?!” I clicked that he was mad and grabbed my drink back, “Why?” I didn’t really care, I was more worried about myself, but I still listened.

“Cause Zayn’s getting with his fucking ex, and we came here to get him away from her.” I could see his jaw clench as he said the words.

“Not my problem.” I shrugged, “sounds like a him problem.”

“What’s with you?” He raised an eyebrow.” You don’t know her and how she embarrassed me and my family.”

“I just told Dan to get fucked and that he was boring.” I completely ignored what AJ had to say.

“Oh.” He screwed up his face, “I mean, yeah true, but also a bit too harsh.”

“What?!” He had specifically told me to be harsh. “Get out.” I rolled my eyes.

“Anyway, let’s find Zayn.” He grabbed onto my hand and tried to lead the way.

“No.” I pulled my hand away, “I don’t care about Zayn, I looked nice for him tonight and he went and got with his ex, so no, I’m not helping you help him, I hate him.” I slapped my hands to my mouth as soon as the words came tumbling out.

“Oh my god.” He stood there with his hands on his hips. “You like him?!” His eyes widened in delight, “you like my cousin.”

“Shut the fuck up!” I covered his mouth with my hand. “Stop, stop.” I could feel the tears start to well up in my eyes and the lump in my throat started to rise once more. “I don’t like him.” I was never supposed to tell AJ, I couldn’t believe I’d played myself.

“It’s okay.” He held onto my shoulders. I think he had noticed that I was going to cry, “I won’t say anything.” He meant it sincerely.

“Thank you,” I stared down at my boots.

“Now will you help me find him pleaseeeeee?” he was practically begging.

“No,” I was standing my ground. “But I’ll be right here when you find him.”

“Fine!” He rolled his eyes, “but stay put.” He knew I had a habit of wondering off when I was drunk.

“No, I’m going back to the girls, just come find us when you find him.” I took another sip of my drink. I didn’t wanna wait for him all by my lonesome at the bar. At least if I went to find the girls I could have people to complain to.

“Okay,” he nodded, “I’ll see you in a bit.”

I gave him a thumbs up and stumbled off. I was so glad I’d chosen to wear boots instead of heels because my feet were killing me, I couldn’t imagine the pain I’d have been in if I chose the latter.

--

[ultinath]

Octavia 6: at home

Soft sunlight fell in the through the white curtains. Octavia reclined on the couch in her home, wearing a long, soft nightgown, reading her inboxes on various social media on her tablet. Artemis leaned against her, sitting cross-legged on the couch, playing a video game. Dan padded through the living room, wearing only black pants and a collar, collecting glasses and dishes to put in the dishwasher. All was quiet and peaceful, except for the sounds of combat and explosions from the video game.

Octavia let out a loud sigh as she put the tablet down. She rubbed her face, looking tired.

Dan trotted over to her. “Is there anything I can do, My Lady?”

“I don’t know…” Octavia said with her hands still on her face. “Can you make your fellow submissive men stop messaging Dominant women on the internet?”

“Another one?” Artemis grumbled as the sounds of combat intensified.

Dan clenched his jaw, looking uncomfortable.

“I’m sorry, love. That’s unfair of me.” Octavia reached out to pet his head. “It’s not your fault that other men are asshats to me on the internet… Make me some coffee?”

Dan went over to the coffee machine and took out one of his Lady’s favourite cups. “What was in the message, if you don’t mind my asking?”

With another sigh, Octavia picked up the tablet, tapped the screen a few times and read out loud: “Are you a real hypnotist? Please tell me yes, I beg you.”

The video game went silent as Artemis turned to read along with Octavia. “Seriously? Begging before he even knows you? Presumptuous dick! Oh, and his username is ‘Slave’ with a number! For fuck’s sake!”

“Is that such an awful thing to ask?” Dan frowned at them from the kitchen.

Octavia thought about it for a second. “His message is not impolite or offensive in and of itself. He probably doesn’t realise why this makes me so exasperated…”

“Because the follow up question is if you can hypnotise him!” Artemis turned back to her video game and the explosions continued. “These fuckwads always want a free ride on the hypnocoaster. They don’t realise you’re a person with relationships and a job and a life. They just think that it doesn’t hurt to ask.”

As Dan brought the cup of coffee to his Lady, she gave him a weary look. “Somehow, these men understand that you can’t ask a bank for free money, but they don’t see why they can’t ask a Domme to top them.” She took the cup of coffee and sipped from it. “And when I tell them 'No, I’m not going to hypnotise you’ they never take it well.”

Artemis furiously worked the buttons of her video game, explosions punctuating her words: “They expect us to explain why we don’t want to spend our precious time and energy on them. Or they’ll just start insulting us, calling us fake, or whores. Sometimes, they’ll go overboard with self-hatred. 'I should have known that you were out of my league! I’m so stupid!’ Hoping for a pity fuck.”

Dan gave Artemis and incredulous look. “You get messages like this too?”

She squinted at the screen as her thumbs still worked the buttons. “Every woman on every online platform gets these messages.”

Octavia motioned Dan to look at the tablet again. “This is Fetlife. And this is Reddit. Tumblr. Insta. Twitter. I can’t see the ones on Facebook because they are from people who are not friends, thank heavens.”

“I heard a friend say that she got a dirty message on Venmo.” Artemis grumbled. 

“Why am I not surprised?” Octavia rolled her eyes. 

Dan hung his head. “I’m ashamed to have anything in common with these men…”

Octavia turned back to the tablet. “I’m just going to write a quick answer.”

Another explosion. “Just block the fucker!”

“I always keep thinking…” Octavia mumbled as she typed. “That if I explain to him what we’ve just explained to Dan, maybe he’ll stop sending messages like this. And that might save other women this bother…”

“Does that ever work?” Dan asked.

“I don’t know…” Octavia said.

Artemis put the video game away, grumbling: “Why can’t those guys just go to a munch to meet people, like normal people?”

Octavia smiled wistfully. “Like we did.”

Dan put down his pillow on the floor and sat next to Octavia’s feet. “I don’t think I know that story.”

“You don’t?” Octavia put the tablet away and started to stroke and pet Dan. “Well, back in the day, I hung out at local munches a lot. I loved talking to other Dommes to hear them brag about what they liked to do. So when Artemis and I had exchanged a few messages online, I invited her over to the munch to meet. And we talked for hours.”

Dan, smiling contently because of the pettings, looked at Artemis. “What were those online messages about?”

Artemis furrowed her brow, thinking back. “I had left a few comments and we started chatting, about hypnosis and the educational articles Octavia wrote online.” She giggled. “I went back to those old messages once, there was nothing in there hinting that we might get together. It was all hypnosis theory and techniques and books on the subject.”

“We really bonded over how bad that book Pillow Talk was.” Octavia chuckled. Then she winked at Dan and said: “Do you remember the first time I hypnotised you, Artemis?”

“It was at the munch…” She stared off in the distance as she reminisced. Her voice became softer and dreamier with every word. “We had been talking about the fact that no one would notice if you’d hypnotise me at the munch. Talking is a normal thing to do. And so is staring off into space…" 

"That’s right, that’s exactly what we talked about.” Octavia cooed in her smooth hypnotist voice. “And you remember what it felt like, don’t you? Just sitting in that corner with me, staring off into space with my voice guiding you as the noise of the pub faded into the background.”

“Yes…” Her mouth sagged open and her eyes softened.

“If that is what you want, Artemis, you can drop deep into trance… Now.” Octavia snapped her fingers.

Artemis went slack, her head flopped backwards against the back of the couch and her arms fell limp into her lap.

Octavia let out a deep, contented sigh. “That never gets old.”

“Why does that keep on working every single time?” Dan asked in a soft whisper. “Doesn’t she see it coming?”

“She probably does.” Octavia smiled and softly stroked Artemis’ hair. “But knowing a technique and seeing it coming doesn’t mean you want to stop it from happening. We’re in a safe place and this is a wonderful moment for a bit of trance, isn’t it?” She gave Dan a meaningful look.

He froze in place, his big brown eyes staring up at her. “Yes… My Lady…" 

"I think it’s time for your mantra, Dan.” Octavia scooted towards Artemis on the couch and took the entranced girl into her arms. As she started to kiss her neck, Artemis stirred and moaned softly.

Kneeling on his pillow, Dan’s eyes were open but he saw nothing. In a soft, vacant voice he recited: “I am strong. I am handsome. My Lady loves me. My Dragon loves me. I am calm and still.”

–

Dear reader, did you like this story? This is the sixth installment of a series. Feel free to leave questions here that you would like to ask Octavia if you ran into her in the dungeon, or if you went to one of her classes. And perhaps in the next installment of the Octavia series, she will answer your question.

[a-fluffer-nutter]

Five More Tries

A/N - My dudes, this was my favorite fic ever to write! I hope y’all love it as much as I do! I just had to do some Game Grumps content because there is so little for them and I am in the biggest fan mood ever. I hope y’all enjoy, Love y’all!!!

Word Count: 1,546

           “I hate this stupid game,” Vicious words spoken under breath, the man leaned forward on the couch, spine a perfect crescent. Everyone knows leaning forward when you are playing videogames helps you focus more.

           “Do you want me to look up the walkthrough?” Another person spoke from the opposite end of the couch, running his hand through messy curls. Microphones surrounded both men, needing to catch every word uttered to every small squeak from the couch springs. Even the smallest details were crucial when filming a show on YouTube.

           “I don’t need any stupid walkthrough,” Bitter anger entangled his words before letting out a long sigh, pushing back his straight, long hair behind his ear. “This game is just so fucking stupid.”

           “Just like the last game we played on here?” Voice peppered with a firm statement and a question, a hint of amusement sprinkled on top. “I’m sure the Lovelies are enjoying you fall off this mountain over and over again.”

           “More than I a-Damn it!” The blond-haired character with an obnoxiously unique name fell to its death once again. “This game is so stupid!”

           “Wanna put it on pause until we get through this part?”

           “I can do it, Dan,” Arin snapped, scratching his dull nails into his scalp, seething at this game, knowing the viewers were going to laugh at him once the video is published. Dan leaned into the arm of the couch, raising his brow. He knew Arin never meant anything he said when he was raging at a game, and frankly he always thought it was funny. The grump had his name for a reason.

           “Five more tries,” Dan stated, crossing his arms over his chest, “then we’ll hit pause if you don’t get it.”

           “Fine,” Arin muttered, mashing the buttons on the controller. The harder you press, the better the action turns out to be in game, everyone knows that.

           “And that’s four,” Dan let out a short laugh into his mic, Arin’s raging scream overtaking most of the audio. “Have you tried jumping over the boulders yet?”

           “Yes, Dan,” Sharp tone through gritted teeth, pupils narrowed as he didn’t even look over at his friend. “That’s what I keep trying to do.”

           “Maybe go around them, then?” Another scream over took Dan’s statement, another short laugh. “Three.”

           “I know how to count, Dan,” His voice seemed to be permanently loud and upset, eyes still glued to the vibrantly colored screen. “Michael Jackson taught me how to do it in ‘ABC.’”

           “Oh, thank goodness you had the best teacher,” Dan said after a bout of contagious laughter. His bright laugh provoked an idea to form in Arin’s head, something not too difficult to act upon in his current state.

           “Two,” Arin muttered to himself as Dan announced it loud and proud to their soon-to-be audience. Arin’s expression softened, kind of wanting to kill his character again, a faint curling of the corner of his mouth flickered on his face.

           “One!” Dan announced, bouncing slightly in seat, though stopped with a furrow of his brow. Why had Arin stopped being so pissed off? Stopped being a grump? “You doing okay there, Arin?”

           “Just peachy, Dan,” Arin held up three fingered ‘okay’ sign, eyes still glued to the screen with a false intensity. His tone had gone flat, which made Dan start to worry, his head tilting slightly to the side. Arin would sometimes get so angry that he would go silent, which was kind of scary to be around, and it didn’t really make for a good show, though they always had Barry to work his magic.

           The room was near silent as the character finally slipped back off the platform Arin had never seemed to get past. Arin yelled out a loud curse, tossing the controller onto the floor, though he didn’t really mean it. Dan curled into himself just a little, letting out a string of happy laughs, scrunching up his nose just a bit. Wide grin on his face, Arin watched Dan try to compose himself, his thin shoulders bouncing.

           “Alright,” Dan rubbed his hands together, glancing over Arin’s head to the door, “We’ll be back in a moment. Let’s pause-”

           “Oh no you don’t,” Arin said, lunging toward a shocked Dan, toppling him onto his back, head laying on the arm of the couch. “You don’t get to do this huge count down and make fun of me. Now, I’ll really give you something to laugh about.”

           “Wait,” Dan nearly screamed out the words, as he felt Arin curl his fingers into his thin waist. He was a giggling mess in no time, Arin’s nails teasing the skin just above his hips, walking his fingers up to a particularly sensitive area just below his ribs. “Stop!”

           “Aw, what’s wrong Danny?” Devious fingers digging between ribs, going up and down his ribcage. Legs kicking desperately, Arin bounced slightly with each movement, Dan’s feet pounding against the couch cushions. Dan’s giggles grew sharper as Arin’s fingers grew closer and closer to his belly, a small area exposed as his shirt rose up from the frenetic thrashing. Fingers paused, hovering over the sensitive area, Arin soaked in the marvelous sound of Dan’s uncontrollable stream of bright giggles, possessing the ability to light up any mood. “I’m not even touching you! Why are you laughing?”

           “I fucking hate you,” Dan could barely say, eyes narrowing in on the slowly descending fingers, completely forgetting he could still move his arms. Arin, however, remembered that he could. It was a very quick motion, one that Dan didn’t really process until the act had been done. Arin grabbed both of Dan’s wrists and slipped them under his knees, sitting on them to keep them still, and keep them apart from his torso. Then, he went back to work. “Arin!”

           “Yes, Danny?” Arin let out a laugh himself as Dan screamed, all ten fingers digging into his belly, thumbs teasing the small area just around his navel, but not yet going in for the kill. Full fledged laughter poured from his upturned lips, Dan laid his head back on the arm of the couch, his messy hair shielding his eyes from the onslaught. A mess of intangible word flowed, trying to bark out curses at Arin. “I can’t understand you. Try not laughing.”

           “Ahaharin! Don’t!” Dan squealed, bucking hard as Arin suddenly switched tactics, flinging his hands under Dan’s arms, and scribbling around the exposed skin from under Dan’s short sleeves. “Ohohoho my god! Stop!”

           “I think you just said, ‘don’t stop,’ didn’t you?” Arin teased, wearing a wide grin that nearly matched Dan’s. The teasing caused Dan’s laughter to spike, his red face growing another shade darker. He had twisted and turned so much that he briefly freed himself, pushing himself back, head hanging off the couch as his torso became propped up on the arm of the couch, jutting it closer to Arin. Legs still firmly pinned, Dan had put himself in a dire predicament as Arin brought his fingers down to tease an incredibly sensitive spot on his lower back that only he knew about. “Fuck, Danny. You could’ve just told me you wanted me to tickle your tummy more.”

           “Sweet Jesus, Arin, don’t you fucking-” Dan was immediately cut off by his own hysteria as Arin blew a giant raspberry onto his fully exposed belly, causing him to scream. Scream loud enough that the mics started to act out.

           The mics.

           “Arin! We have an episode to do!” Dan was able to say past his loud laughter and the sound of Arin’s lips puffing air onto his belly, the hair of Arin’s beard shaking with each raspberry, sending Dan up the wall, which wasn’t helped by Arin’s long hair grazing lightly against the rest of his belly. With another raspberry, Dan let out another scream and pulled himself upright as Arin sat back up. Dan grabbed Arin by the hair, resting his forehead on Arin’s chest. “Stop. Please.”

           “If you insist,” Arin laughed, running his hand over Dan’s hair. He glanced over at the door, wide smile. “Hey, Barry. Cut this part out. Danny might kill me if we leave it in.”

           “Or I’ll kill you anyways,” Dan let out a quiet snort as he looked up at Arin, eyes full of fire. “No mercy, Big Cat.”

           “Danny!” Arin squealed as Dan’s fingers dug into his ribs, the sensations overtaking his mind just enough to knock him back onto the couch, reversing the situation. Danny loomed overhead, hosting a wide, mischievous smile.

           “You might wanna take this part out too,” Dan let out a laugh before digging right into Arin’s belly, eliciting loud, high pitched laughter.

           Barry decided to run the episode just how it was, giving the Lovelies a delightful forty-minute episode of the duo forgetting about everything else, just tickling the living shit out of the other person. Barry told them about the uncut episode, but he forgot to leave out the fact that the face cams had been going the entire time. Arin and Dan didn’t find out until receiving hundreds of messages on each of their social media accounts. Needless to say, Barry quickly found himself at their mercy only hours after the video was published.