#I legit just walked to him and the first thing he did after saying hello was to just throw a handful of confetti at me it was hilarious.

[foobagorch]

Comfort food

Imagine if you will, walking for hours on end in 101 degree weather (fahrenheight), beneath the blazing heat of the tropical sun, along a narrow concrete path. A long asphalt parking lot to your right and stall after stall of family-owned stores to your left. The sidewalk is bustling with beachgoers and island residents alike. A strange mix of bikinis, cargo shorts, and t-shirts of riotous colors meets your eyes as you continue walking. Finally, reaching the end of the long row of stalls you finally step out of the crowds for a moment walking beneath the canopy of a restaurant that is little more than A concrete box with a counter, kitchen, and a handful of scattered tables and chairs. The rich sent of fried food fills the air, and the sound of Puerto Rican rap blasting from an oversized speaker in the back of the store drowns out the squeaking of the decade-old ceiling fans that hang over head, as well as the restless murmuring of the crowds outside. the restaurant is framed by nothing more than two long concrete walls, a tiled floor, and a peeling, plastered ceiling. Both ends are open, allowing you to see straight through from one side to the other, the crowds and sidewalk behind you, and before you lies the restaurant, another parking lot, a gorgeous glowing beach, and finally, the brilliant view of the sea that stretches far from the shore to meet the horizon. After ordering (in spanish of course) you take a peek into the soot-stained kitchen, which is filthy enough to put any self-respecting FDA agent into immediate cardiac arrest. Soon after returning to your seat, a styrofoam tray of freshly made chicken empanadas and arroz con gandules is set before you, instantly making your mouth water. One bite ensures you of its authenticity. Government regulations be damned, this food was made with love. Every morsel of it is heaven, the meat is soft and tender, the bread of the empanada is crisp and rich. The arroz con gandules seems to melt in your mouth with every forkfull. Maybe its just the heat or maybe its just your hunger, but this is some of the best food you’ve ever had. After finishing your delightful (but horrendously unhealthy) meal, you thank the cashier, and make your way to the sea that awaits you, continuing with the rest of your day.

[rena-lily]

Yall I was playing the event for twst today and OMG WHY ARE EPEL AND SEBEK SO CUTE??? LIKE HELLO??? Bro they’re literally besties! Trust🤞LIKE HELLO NOT THEM SMILING MISCHIEVOUSLY AND THEN PICKING IDIA UP

Bro I’m just saying I feel like their friendship should be talked about a bit more!

Anyways I was thinking so imagine after the Harveston event, they all go back to NRC but there is a visible shift in their schedule. Before Sebek would spend a lot of his time with Dia 3 while Epel would mostly be with Vil But then now they always seem to be missing throughout the day!

Malleus doesn’t notice how often Sebek is gonna until like a week passes and this is starting to become a common thing while Silver also notices Sebek isn’t with him as often anymore so now Dia 3 is curious as to where Sebek is going throughout the day!

Next thing you know they see Epel and Sebek just running around near the woods or just hanging out together at Ramshackle and they’re just like when did those two get so close??? But obvs they’re glad Sebek is interacting with more people now! And from then on everyone can visibly see how close Epel and Sebek have gotten!! Like you can always see them walking in the halls together(Sebek is taking turns with Silver to escort Malleus now that Sebek started walking with Epel) and you can always see Sebek smiling so widely now:3 and you can always catch him talking to someone on the phone with Epel(hint:it’s Epel’s Grandma). All the other first years also note how Epel and Sebek are starting to become sort of a duo now obvs not as chaotic as Adeuce but they’re still chaotic. You can see Epel trying to throw an apple at someone while Sebek is just gripping onto Epel so he doesn’t actually throw it!

Now this would be fine for Dia 3 BUT NOW SEBEK IS LEGIT JUST ALWAYS GONE! They can barely find him anywhere and yes he still guard Malleus but not as often as before! Now they’re all starting to feel his missing presence and it just feels so WRONG…. He’s also started having sleepovers at Pomefiore which would be fine…IF LILIA AND SILVER DIDNT CATCH VIL SAYING THAT HE WAS TRYING TO CONVINCE SEBEK TO JOIN POMEFIORE INSTEAD!

You can’t convince me that Sebek would not fit in Pomefiore, like we know how strict he is with himself and he always works hard for everything he does! And I bet you that Vil atleast respects that part(And also Vil caught Sebek with his hair down when he was at Pomefiore and he can’t just let that POTENTIAL be wasted). So now Dia 3 is just tweaking trying to get Sebek to hang out with them. They try so many ways but everytime Sebek always has to decline because he either has plans with the first years, Epel, or somehow he gets roped into a trip with Vil! THEY EVEN GOT MALLEUS TO INVITE HIM BUT HE STILL DECLINE(Don’t get him wrong he was absolutely overjoyed that his liege invited him but sadly he already made plans and he would stick with it) At this point if they want to hang out with him more they’re gonna have to reserve a time specifically for what day😭

Each failed attempt is just making Sebek slowly drift away from them without him even noticing! They’re so desperate now😭 Anyways while all this is happening, Sebek is living his best life now hanging out with his friends, having a specific friend now(Epel) and going around more places and being accepted!!! He’s so happy:3

They’re also so silly for this🤣 like plz why did Sebek look so aggressive at first LMAOO gotta love the team spirit tho!!!

[lohotine]

Hello, can I request Shadow Milk Cookie x Reader who likes to dance pls? Since I imagine Shadow Milk Cookie dancing around a lot, I thought a dancing Reader would be perfect for him!

Have a nice day/evening/night! 👋🏼😁

AN: YOU DONT UNDERSTAND, I LEGIT STARTED JUMPING UP AND DOWN WHEN I GOT THIS REQUEST. IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR AN EXCUSE TO WRITE S.M.C, AND NOW I FINNALY HAVE ONE! AH, I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. THANK YOU FOR THIS REQUEST ☆☆☆☆☆ IM GOING TO GO THE EXTRA MILE AND ADD HEADCANONS AT THE BOTTOM TOO ☆☆☆☆☆♡♡♡♡ XOXOXO TYSM ILY.

Shadow Milk Cookie x GN! Reader. ONESHOT

Warnings: None

-Doll-

Stars shone whimsically in the sky, and the cool night breeze could be felt all around you. A quiet melody was playing from the stage inside. Standing on a balcony was you, elegantly twirling and stepping from side to side. Though your eyes were closed, you did not need them. It was song that guided you, not your sight. It was peaceful, until somebody grabbed one of your hands and forcefully spun you around.

Your eyes shot open and you could see the person who interrupted your dance standing right infront of you. Cold hands, shades of blue, crazed eyes. It was none other than Shadow Milk Cookie.

"Is this what my doll has been up to? You know, I've been looking all over for you," he would say. One of his hands were on your waist while the other was holding your own. His eyes looked deep into your eyes, and a smile could be seen on the blue cookie's face.

"I thought you were still doing your show," you would explain to him.

"Dove, I finished a while ago. I wanted to meet up with you immediately after, but you hid away on this balcony! I was a little worried," informed Shadow Milk Cookie.

"Ah, sorry." You would smile wryly.

"What's that look for?" He'd snap, beginning to pout.

"It's just funny how much you want to be around me. I didn't think you liked me that much!"

Shadow Milk would roll his eyes.

"You are so silly. Why wouldn't I enjoy being around my favorite doll? You're perfect."

He would spin you around once again and start the steps to a familiar dance. The two of you would recite this dance all of the time, so the steps have already been memorized by heart.

It was the first dance that Shadow Milk did with you.

"Dancing again? You seem to like it a lot," He'd chime as he continued to spin around with you.

"That's because I do like it a lot. Though, it's much more enjoyable with you."

Shadow Milk Cookie couldn't help but snicker. "I know. I'm a joy to be around~"

He would dip you backwards and stare into your eyes.

"But, I suppose I also enjoy our time together."

He would bring you back up to your feet and continue the hypnotic dance.

How much time has past since you two first began dancing?

The two of you had no plans on stopping any time soon, but it just had to start raining. It wasn't even a light mist that would make things more romantic. It was heavy.

"Uhg, what a pain." Shadow Milk would say through a glare. He quickly lead both of you back indoors, but the damage had been done.

"I'm so sorry doll. If I knew there was going to be rain, I would have lead us inside earlier."

"It's fine, really. I was starting to get sleepy anyway," You'd explain to him.

His eyes would widen for a moment before he picked you up into his arms. You would have started shouting at him to let you go, but something else caught your attention first.

"Ack! Shadow Milk, you are freezing!"

He couldn't help but snicker.

"Sorry button, I run cold."

Shadow Milk Cookie would place a kiss on your forehead before starting to walk both of you to your shared room.

After the two of you changed into more dry clothing, Shadow Milk immediately wrapped you up in a bunch of blankets.

"I can't have my little doll getting sick now!" He'd say as he began to cuddle up next to you.

"You're still cold.." you would whine, trying to scoot away from him.

"I know that, silly! That's why you have to share the warmth..." He'd say back, holding you closer.

He was so annoying sometimes.

But of course you still loved him.

Headcanons!

Loves dancing with you so much!

Sometimes he'll see you randomly dancing on stage, and he can't help but join in

Will 100% spin and dip you

But if on the off chance you spin him...

He gets flustered

Will make up the excuse that it just caught him off guard

But you know he's flustered since his hands turn warm...

He is NEVER warm

Loves to flirt with you while you dance

And likes giving you silly little nicknames like: button, doll, dove, star, and when he's in a silly mood, silly billy.

His favorite greeting is spinning you around or random hugs from behind

Acts like a cat

He's clingy and needy like one as well

Seriously panics if he loses you for over an hour

You have to make up for it with kisses

Man also gets jealous SO easily.

Death stares and constant harassment towards the other party

He never does this infront of you though

OKAY, I DID IT! AGAIN, THIS WAS SO MUCH FUN TO WRITE. PLEASE REQUEST MORE SHADOW MILK COOKIE FROM ME. I WILL GLADLY WRITE IT 😍

[lunarw0rks]

cod dudes with a nurse y/n but make it lowkey realistic: bc lets be real, after a 12 hr shift you do NOT want to hang out with friends, party, or socialize. ur feet hurt from walking and standing all day, your ears are tired from hearing the IV pumps beep all day, and the smell of C.diff makes u want to vomit. nurse y/n just wants to sit down or lay on the couch and be non-verbal... Gaz, price, and rudy are the sweetest. they pick that up real quick after mistakenly asking "hows ur shift" and y/n trauma dumped them for 5 hrs straight. they don't immediately ask for hugs and kisses bc they know u overwhelmed. they just pour u a cup of wine and sit next to you until YOU talk to them first. you lowkey gossip with them on ur day off or randomly be like "omg look at that dude over there next to the parking spot its giving edema". and then theres soap and ghost. Soap is clingy, yall really think hes gonna survive 12hrs of not seeing you? this man was waiting by the door at 7:15 pm. on the dot. wants to hug and kiss you and tell you about his day. but ur just so. fucking. tired. you tried to be as responsive but it always ended up with a tired "mhm". He legit got upset a few times but he'd be a good sport about it tho. eventually he caught on a couple of weeks in and now he just comes and hugs you from behind, kisses ur face, and cuddles you silently (AFTER you throw away ur dirty scrubs and shower. that C.diff smell is yucky yucky). Tells you he appreciates your care and effort for the patients every day :). Ghost.... omgg he said something lowkey offensive to you right after u got home from the worst shift of ur week. and he didnt even know WHAT he said/did, hes kinda bad a picking up ur cues. nurse y/n just turned around slowly, gave him the NASTIEST side eye, and stared at him for a good 2.5 min. This man immediately retreated from ur couch to wherever he was b4 like a hermit going back to its shell lmao. 2 hrs later you find a small written note and ur fave gurl dinner on the dining table.

Alejandro..... this man is SO PROUD of his s/o being a nurse. hes showing you off every chance he gets!!! He takes Nursing week SERIOUSLY. give you massages, spas, gifts, ect. but he doesnt get how tired and overwhelmed you are. you have to physically tell him to stop asking or letting his family asking medical question. "No ale. I will NOT look at auntie's mole on her stomach. when im off the clock im OFF THE CLOCK :("

Valeria threatens to beat up the management for you lol. she hates how you get treated by them sometimes. you didnt get the recognition you deserve. Def bosses her cartel men around to buy you gifts and such. one time she organized a whole day to spoil and pamper you. she gave you her own version of Daisy Award 🥺💞 Konig observes and internally analyzes ur every move. he panics tho. like "OMG she home but she already has a bottle of wine its different from the one she had yesterday.. omg omg she didnt even say hello that means her shifts was extra shitty today.... why is she sipping on the wine for so long and the last sip is longer than all previous sips........" He eventually learned you just need silent company. you were laying on the bed feeling burned out when he came over with some soup, kissed ur hand, and wrapped you in a blanket burrito :).

ah, realistic nurse!y/n. this is a breath of fresh air for me.

they're all trying their best. and honestly, what better pair? they also have an overstimulating, kinda gross (blood and bodily fluids), exhausting career !!

it's a match made in heaven !! (aside from the whole... miscommunication and barely seeing each other thing. but what's a good ship without some gut-wrenching angst?)

[b4tasquad]

✭ JERSEY: GAVI

Authors note: a really short one that just came to my head and i just had to write it out. also sorry because I know most of the people following me are here for the beta squad content… and it’s coming😭

Warnings: none

…

For the past 90 minutes you had been grinning as you sat in the stands of the football match. When being invited to a Barcelona match by your cousin, the last thing you expected was to catch the eye of star player- Pablo Gavi. But exactly just that, you had managed to do.

From the moment he walked onto the pitch, getting ready to start the match, he had noticed you. It first started with occasional glances thrown between you too, but during the last minutes or so, you could see him look at you after everything he did.

Almost like he wanted to… impress you?

It was fun to say the least. He was the golden boy, with dozens of titles to his names, getting girls left and right. But he had for some reason chosen to pay attention to you, for the 90 minutes he played at least. Of course you were going to entertain it.

What you hadn’t expected once the game ended was for him to walk towards where you were getting ready to pack up and leave. You and your cousin were giggling to each other about the whole ordeal when her eyes suddenly widened at a sight behind you, as you were too busy picking up your purse from the seat.

“Y/n.” She for some odd reason whispers, and you look up questioningly. When she doesn’t answer you turn to where she’s staring and words get caught in your throat.

In front of you, a half naked Pablo Gavi was grinning as he held tightly on to his jersey. The barrier stopping the stands from the pitch made it impossible for you to stand close to each other, but he could still throw over the article of clothing easily. You heart was beating like crazy as he tossed it in your direction, a smile on your face as you got ready to catch it.

It seemed as though the universe wasn’t on your side because the jersey was snatched out of your hands the second it landed in them. With the most baffled expression, you whip your head to see a girl around your age, gripping it to her chest, a teasing smile on her face.

“Hello?” Those weren’t even the words you intended to come out, but you were just so shocked at the fact that she would take it from you like that, and smile as if she accomplished anything. “I was holding that.”

“It was obvious he threw it to me. Don’t be jealous.” Her voice almost makes you want to hurl, because it’s so high pitched. The lack of empathy in her tone angers a part of you so much, but you still try to be the bigger person.

“I think he threw it to me.”

She cackles, actually opens her mouth and lets out the loudest cackle you’re sure the whole stadium can hear echo around. “Why would he throw it to you?”

The look she gives you is nothing but mocking. Asking you why he would ever give his jersey to someone like you. Well, damn. No need for that one, you thought.

“Do you have problems digesting the most simplest things? It was obvious he threw it to her, he was legit looking at her while he did it. Stop being an insecure bitch and just walk away before you end up on the news for embarrassing yourself in front of a bunch of people.”

The girl just huffs, but still holds onto the clothing. In the midst of the situation, you had completely forgotten about Gavi. Talking about him, the guy stood with his mouth slightly open in shock, as his plan had totally not gone the way he was hoping it would go.

Seeing his troubled expression, you only shake your head with a motion of your hand to let him know it was okay. As you convince your cousin to just leave, you’re finally on your way out when you hear someone calling for you.

“Wait.” Gavi screams behind you, as he jumps over the barrier, probably breaking a few rules as he does so. He walked up to the railing and you lean down to hear him. “Do you have a pen?”

“A pen?”

He nods. “Yes, a pen.”

Rummaging trough your little hand bag you actually find a discarded pen in there. Giving it to him, you eagerly wait as he just motions for your hand. You’ve lowkey figured out what he was doing by now, but you still find some entertainment in acting clueless.

When he’s done and gives your hand a quick peck, you don’t even have to question what’s written on it. His smug expression alongside his next words telling you everything you needed to know.

“Call me.”

[ikeromantic]

Entwined, Ch. 14

Part 14 of a multipart series. Mai has been reborn in the modern age after a full life in the Sengoku. The warlords as spirit animals find her again after 500 years of searching for her soul. Approx. 2600 words.

Chapter List

Ayami couldn’t find the pig’s person, and it was really starting to struggle in her grip. Squealing so loud everyone was turning to stare. “Come on, piggy! Seriously? Calm down. I’m trying to help. If I put you down, you’re gonna get lost or hit by a car.” 

The pig was unsympathetic. It wriggled around and then bit her hand. Surprised, Ayami dropped it, and the piggy immediately raced off toward a narrow alleyway. She chased after, but it was much faster than she was and it clearly knew where it was going. 

She stumbled into the alley, slamming face first into a broad chested red-head. As he gently lifted her away from his rumpled shirt, she decided she could have done worse in the choosing-a-stranger-to-faceplant-between-the-pecs area. The guy was tall and broad with big brown eyes that crinkled at the edges despite the bitter twist to his full lips. 

“E-excuse me,” Ayami stammered. “I was chasing a pig. Did you see one run past?”

“Nope.” He kept a hand on her shoulder to steady her. 

“Oh . . .” That wasn’t possible. The pig had for sure turned this way, but when she peered past the guy, the alley was empty. 

He grinned at her. “I don’t mean to bother you, but I am looking for a friend of mine. She mentioned meeting a hypno-something at a shop near here today?”

“You know Mai?”

“Sure thing. We’re old friends.” His easy manner made him sound so trustworthy, but Ayami couldn’t remember Mai ever mentioning a sexy red-head. And she would have. For sure she would have. This was the kind of friend you introduced your single friends to. Otherwise, you were a heartless, greedy wench. 

“Oh. Ok. Well. Umm.” Ayami tried to stall for time to think. There had to be a good way out of this. She didn’t want to lie, just in case this guy was legit but she didn’t want to just walk him over to Bo’s office either. He might be some creepy hot stalker guy. “So, you were looking for what kind of shop?”

His eyes narrowed as if he knew exactly what she was up to. “A hyp-” He cut off as a muffled cry came from the building behind her. “Damn it.” He pushed past and ran.

Ayami ran after him, confused. “Wait! Hey! Where are you going?”

The guy slowed in front of the shops, scanning the signs. “Come on, come on. Ah!”

“Hey!” Ayami caught up, panting. First the pig, then the faceplant, and now another jog. This day was exhausting. 

“Looks like I found the place on my own, princess.” He grinned at her, but it wasn’t a happy smile. Another muffled sob drifted through the closed door. “Too late, by the sound of it.”

He went in with Ayami at his heels. “Hello?” The guy called out, taking a step toward the door that led to the treatment room.

“I - I’ll be with you in a minute,” Bo called back.

“You are really kind of rude, you know that? You can’t bull your way into someone’s session. Especially when that person doesn’t know you.” Ayami stepped between the redhead and the door. Hot or not, she was not letting him push her around. 

“You realize I can just pick you up and move you, right?” 

Ayami gave him a fierce grin. “Try it and see what happens.” When she was pretty sure he wasn’t going to try anything, she added, “who are you really, anyway? And why did you say you know my friend?”

He crossed his arms and leaned back on his heels, studying her. After a long beat of silence, he answered. “I’m Keiji, and I do know Mai. She - she might not remember me, but I do know her. So stop lookin’ at me like that. I’m trying to help.”

Bo stepped out behind her, his face creased with worry. “Hello Ayami. Who is your . . . friend?” He gestured to Keiji,

“Some guy that says he knows Mai. Anyway, how is she? Did she remember anything?” Ayami turned to Bo, excited to see him and hoping that meant Mai would be out in a moment to settle this.

Bo took a breath. “Why don’t you step in the back with me? We can talk privately there.”

“Hey!” Keiji frowned. “I know something’s wrong. You can’t just leave me out here waiting.”

“I’m sorry sir. I don’t know you, and I don’t know how you know my client.” Bo straightened, his normally kind expression turning to rigid professionalism. 

Keiji rolled his eyes. “Seriously. Try to do a guy a favor.” He sighed. “Look, I’m here for her boyfriend. Mitsuhide. Now you get it? He was worried and asked me to keep an eye on her, since the squirrel is busy with other things.”

“The squirrel,” Bo asked at the same time Ayami said, “Mitsuhide? You could have just said that in the first place, you weirdo.”

“Can we just check on her, please? We can talk later.” Keiji gestured toward the door.

Bo looked at Ayami questioningly. 

She weighed the choice and decided this was one of Mai’s new friends. Or a friend of a friend. She wasn’t sure she fully trusted him though. “Fine. You can come too, but I swear. If you’re lying and I find out, I will punch you right in your pretty face so hard your dad will feel it.”

Surprisingly, Keiji laughed. “That sounds like a deal. If I’m lying, I’ll let you hit me. Now let’s go.”

Bo opened the door and led them into his workspace. Mai was settled in a huge armchair, sunk deep in the soft cushions. Her eyes were closed, lids flickering with movement behind them. Her lips twitched occasionally as if she were about to speak, while tears leaked from beneath her eyelashes to trickle down her cheeks. Her breath was so shallow that her chest did not seem to move.

“I . . . I don’t know what happened. I can’t get her to come out of the trance. She’s stuck in whatever dream or memory she’s having.” Bo sat down beside the chair and checked her pulse. “Her heart rate is slow, and I think it’s getting slower. We may need to send her to the hospital.”

Ayami put a hand on her friend’s cheek, gently wiping the tears away. “Mai? Can you wake up please? You’re scaring me and Bo.”

Mai did not stir. 

Keiji let out a long, slow breath. “Welp. This is what we were afraid of. Nobunaga’s not going to be happy. Neither is Kenshin. Shit.” He snorted. “This is going to stir everyone up.” 

“What are you talking about,” Ayami glanced at him. 

“Just . . . look. Some things, people weren’t meant to recall. There’s too much there. Too many strong passions. Emotions. It’s better to let it go, start over. Be someone new.” He ran a hand through his messy hair. 

“You sound like you know what’s happening to her.” Bo stood.

Keiji shrugged. “I got an idea, yeah. I could be wrong but I don’t think so.”

Ayami pointed at him, feeling a sudden rush of anger. “If you know anything, you better spill right now. I’m so tired of people yanking Mai around. You and your stupid friends. Mitsuhide. Knowing stuff but not telling her anything. This is your fault!”

He put his hands up as if to defend himself. “Hey! Hey! I didn’t make this happen.”

“No, but you know more than you said. Tell me.” Ayami poked him in the chest, and tried not to notice how firm and muscular he was. Not the time, girl, she reminded herself. 

Keiji groaned. “Look, I’ve got to let Mitsuhide know what’s happening. If you want, come with me and I’ll tell you what I can on the way.”

Ayami turned to Bo. “Will she be alright for a little while?” 

He checked her pulse again and nodded. “If her pulse drops into the 30s I will call emergency services. But for now, I think she’s stable. Low, but stable.”

Ayami nodded and shot off a text to Kaiya. “Our friend Kaiya will be here shortly to keep an eye on her. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” She ruffled Mai’s hair. “You better be ok, OK? Because I - you can’t just -” She swallowed a sudden rush of emotion. No. This was going to be fine. Mai was going to be ok. This was just a little hiccup in the plan. “You’re going to open your eyes and smile and we’ll laugh about this whole thing later. Got it?”

She followed Keiji out, listening as he began to explain who he was and how he knew what he knew.

***

Mai knew Mitsuhide was no traitor. She’d followed his trail to Kyoto, desperate to find him. To be at his side for whatever came next. Only now that she was here, she had no idea where to begin looking. After picking up some items at the market, she rested against a wall, lost in thought. 

A hand reached for her from the shadows, surprising Mai from her reverie as she was pulled into the darkness. 

“You foolish little mouse -” Mitsuhide’s voice, tense, chiding, pleased. He touched her skin as if she were made of flame. A moth with scorched wings, unable to deny the draw of the fire. 

Mitsuhide pulled her into a nearby storehouse, out of sight. “How clueless can you be,” he began.

She did not let him continue. Mai through her arms around him, letting the solidity of his frame, the beat of his heart, reassure her that he was alive and alright. “I found you,” she murmured. “I’ve missed you so much!”

He pushed her away, his expression locking into place. A cruel thin smile, hard eyes. Yet she could see the fine cracks in that mask. “What do you think you’re doing in Kyoto?”

“I would follow you anywhere.” Mai felt the truth of that well up in her heart. She would. She had. Even into death.

The memory spun away, plunging her into another.

***

Ayami let Keiji talk. She didn’t interrupt, though everything he said planted a thousand more questions in her mind. 

“I don’t mind being a pig sometimes. I mean, all men are,” Keiji said. “It might have been nice to be a hawk or a bear or something, but at least I’m not a rabbit.” He glanced down at her. “That’s most of what you need to know. More probably.”

“So . . . you knew Mai 500 years ago. When she married this Mitsuhide guy. And he’s a fox. And you’re a - you’re the pig I chased.” Ayami tried to wrap her mind around it. The whole thing felt impossible, and there was so much she knew he wasn’t explaining. Maybe he didn’t even know. The how and why and why now. 

Keiji chuckled. “Yeah. You got a hell of a grip for a girl, but you’re slow.”

She punched his arm. “Not funny, guy.”

He grinned. “It is though.” He gestured up at a glass office building. “This is where we’ll find Akechi. He goes here when he’s sulking. Pretends to work.” 

“With all due respect, Maeda, he is actually working.” A man materialized at her side as if by magic, stepping out of the shuffle of office workers. He was unremarkable at first glance, merely another salary man. But with a little observation, Ayami could tell he was pretty damn fit under the suit, and there was something more intense in his gaze.

“Kyubei. I shoulda known you were lurking.” Keiji smirked. “Point for you, I guess.”

“You have news?” Kyubei completely ignored the teasing. 

Ayami cleared her throat. “Hi. I’m Ayami, friend of Mai, and I’m here to see her sort of boyfriend. You work with him or something?”

Kyubei’s dark eyed gaze focused on her, and she felt suddenly a little short of breath. “I work for Lord Akechi, yes. And it is good to meet any friend of Mai’s” He smiled, and his intense expression immediately softened. “I am quite fond of her.”

Keiji nudged him. “Look, much as I like chatting with you and introductions and yadda yadda, I need to see the big guy. Let’s go, huh?”

“Yes, come along.” Kyubei gave Keiji a curt nod, and badged the three of them into the building. It was a tangle of cubicles and frosted glass rooms, the air thick with the hum of productivity. Morale sounded high among the workers and many people smiled at the three of them as they passed.

Kyubei led them to a glass enclosed conference room on a mid-level floor. There were two men standing inside, facing one another. One, Ayami recognized from pictures. Mitsuhide.

He was talking with a dark haired, intense looking man. Both exuded a sense of threat, though in markedly different ways. The dark haired man radiated strength and solidity. Mitsuhide, on the other hand, was all liquid grace, like a serpent.

The two men turned to look at Kyubei as they stepped into the room. Twin gazes alike and yet very different. Where the dark haired man had bright carnelian eyes that reminded her of a bird of prey, Mitsuhide’s golden gaze was impenetrable, reflecting nothing of the complex soul beneath.

“My lord, I’ve brought -”

“Ayami. Yes.” Mitsuhide’s lips turned up in a smile He stepped forward and took her hand, cupping it gently as he bowed. 

She could see why Mai liked this guy. He was smooth. His hands were warm and firm, and he held her as if she was something precious. “Nice to meet you,” she murmured as he let go of her and stepped back.

The dark haired man gave her a nod. “I am Nobunaga.” He glanced behind her at Keiji. “Why are you here?”

“It’s Mai,” Ayami answered before Keiji could. “She won’t wake up.”

Mitsuhide had no reaction other than to cross his arms and rest his chin against his palm.

Nobunaga’s expression turned hard. “Explain.”

Stammering, Ayami gave him a rundown of the day’s events. 

Keiji interjected here and there to offer additional details, his tone curt and business-like. 

“So the little fireball has gotten herself into more trouble. Unsurprising.” Nobunaga glanced at Mitsuhide. “It seems your predictions were accurate.”

A thin, unhappy smile turned up the corners of his lips. “It does seem so. Is your prohibition now lifted?”

“It may as well be. Keiji apparently has already revealed us to this delicate blossom.” Nobunaga’s relentless gaze pierced Ayami where she stood.

She realized then that she’d peppered her explanation with bits of information Keiji gave her. “Umm. I won’t, like, say anything? I mean . . . I barely believe it so . . . no one would . . .” It was hard to think under the pressure of those eyes. 

Keiji cleared his throat. “I didn’t want to, but she wasn’t gonna let me see Mai if I didn’t tell her something.”

Kyubei nodded. “My lords, you would want her close associates to be cautious about whom they let into her sphere. It is only natural that we must be somewhat exposed to them if we wish to continue our association with the princess.”

Mitsuhide set a hand on Nobunaga’s shoulder. “It will be well. This is all within the calculated risks we planned for. Now, may I?”

“Yes. Go. I will expect a full report later.” Nobunaga gave him a fierce smile. 

Kyubei hurried out with his lord. Ayami turned to follow but Keiji blocked her way. “Not so fast, hm? I think we have a bit more to do here.”

“Yes,” Nobunaga agreed. “Close the door.”

[taffycandyqt]

heyyy again, can i request the rise turtles reacting to reader deciding they want to pierce them-selfs but too lazy to go get them professionally done so they just walk in on the reader half-way piercing them-selfs and freak out cuz they just have a needle in them and reader is laughing their ass off at their face.

(the piercing can be anywhere an there face)

remember to drink lots of water as well and take care of yourself <3

Your literally so sweet! Thank you! <3 and right back at you, take good care!

Also I got to like the middle of Mikey's and then Tumblr deleted the whole thing so I just kinda🥲

TW: Mentions of blood (nothing gross), mentions of needles and needles piercing skin

Notes: GN reader

You decided that getting piercings was too much effort and too expensive. So why not do it yourself?

Raph:

*PANIC*

Boi is the epitome of terrified

And look, he knows piercings are a thing and that people get them but like he isn't surrounded by many people with them and he always thought it was supposed to be done professionally.

So, safe to say when he comes to your place to hang and finds you in the bathroom with blood dripping from your ear and a needle in it, broski SCREECHED.

Legit worried someone straight up tried to stabb you with a needle.

Tonight was the night! You finally decided to suck it up and get that double piercing you've always wanted. However, you were poor.

So! DIY it is! People do it all the time so it couldn't be that hard right?

Wrong.

At least you think so. You didn't really do any research before hand so you aren't 100% sure the bleeding is bad. But at the same time you don't think bleeding is normal in this kind of situation. Or at least not the desired result.

Admist the chaos of you trying to control the bleeding Raph texts you that he dropped by for a short visit. You figured that the calming presence of your boyfriend would help lift you mood and keep you from freaking out. So after telling him where to find you, you sat down on the toilet lid to actually search up how to to pierce yourself. (And if bleeding is normal). However before you could get to any useful information you hear the surprised screech of your boyfriend.

"OH MI GOSH! ARE YOU OKAY??!"

"Oh, Raph this is jus-"

"WOW thatsalotofblood...COTTON BALLS! or gauze?? You have those right? How did this happen?? WAIT! We need to remove the needle first! Did someone do this to you??? Was it an accident? How do you accidental-"

"PFFFFFFFTTT! HAHAHehehehehe!" You practically cackled.

"w- ... what ...?" Raph said, no less panicked, just a little more confused.

"Raph. Sweetheart, hehe," you couldn't help but giggle. "Love of my life, I'm fine, I'm just piercing my ears."

"Oh. So the bleeding is normal then?"

"Oh, no. I'm pretty sure that's a bad thing."

"TAKE THE NEEDLE OUT!"

Mikey:

You cannot tell me this boy has not thought about getting piercings before.

They're just so pretty and cool, and he is all for them! (Low-key upset he doesn't have ears because of all the cool ear piercings out there)

Even with that though, when you show up with needles sticking out of each side of you bottom lip, bro is a little scared.

Like wtf are you doing??

When you tell him though, he is HAPPY to help.

He will even get a piercing with you!

Splinter will make him take it out later buuuuuut, it's about the couple bondinggg!!

On a high of boredom and internet envy (a.k.a, seeing tons of pics of hot ppl with snake bite piercings) you began to prepare needles to give yourself some dope piercings. After expertly pushing the needles through both ends of your bottom lip you were reminded of your 'bi-weekly mandatory art and cuddle couple bonding date' (Mikey's name for it). You couldn't just take the needles out so after some thought you just decided, screw it, it's not like I'm bleeding. It hurt a little though.

After slipping under the man hole cover and navigating the nasty sewer you made it to the lair. Voicing a quick hello to Splinter as you passed through he living room he met you with a swift wave, still thoroughly invested in his l show.

Making your way to Mikey's room you speak a quick 'knock knock' to get his attention, seeing as you couldn't really knock on a curtain. As the turtle of the hour excitedly pushed open the curtain he was more than a little surprised upon seeing you.

"EEP!"

*WHEEZE!*

You couldn't help it okay?? You didn't know what reaction you were expecting from him but it definitely wasn't 'EEP!'. Eventually you both calmed down enough to talk.

"Angle, what did you do?"

"I'm getting snake bites! Did it myself, what do you think??"

"That's so COOL! Can I get a piercing too!!?"

"I'm pretty sure that's up to your dad hun."

"He'll be fineeeeeee! Come on! This can be the art portion of the 'art and cuddle' date.

Later:

"ORANGE!" Splinter yelled. "I DON'T CARE IF THIS IS SOME FORM OF TEENAGE REBELLION, TAKE THAT OUT NOW OR I'LL DO IT MYSELF!"

"But daaaaaaad!"

Leo:

If you thought Raph's screeching was bad, Leo's is worse.

My guy just wanted to see you and just so happens to portal to you right as the needle goes STRAIGHT through your septum.

When he sees this he FREAKS TF OUT then slips and eats bathroom tile right after.

You'll laugh but he will be so shook

Like he saw the needle GO THROUGH YOU!

Mans is high-key traumatized.

It doesn't help that he probably forgot that piercings were a thing and is just like, wth would you put a needle in YOUR FACE.

When you tell him you're just getting a piercing he will get pouty about you laughing at him (and embarrassed that that wasn't his first thought) and you'll basically have to baby him the rest of the time he's there.

"Oh y/nnnnn-"

*Pinch*

Needle successfully through the septum.

"EEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAH- OOF!"

"HOLY! LEO! WTF you scared the crap out of me! Are you okay?!"

"Wha- eeh- THERES A NEEDLE IN YOUR NOSE!" He yelled pointing a finger at your face.

"Sksksksksk," you snickered. "Yeah, Leo, I put it there."

You had always wanted a septum piercing, but you just couldn't bring yourself to actually go and get it done so you figured the only way to get it is to do it yourself. Your just lucky Leo scared you after it was through rather than before, who knows the kind of bloody nose you would have gotten.

"WHY?!"

"Uuuh, cuz septum piercings are cool?"

"..."

"So how'd the floor taste bud?"

"I-! Hey! Why don't you try seeing someone STAB a NEEDLE through there face. I SAW I GO THROUGH!" He gestured dramatically before folding his arms and facing away from you.

"Awww, come on now handsome. Don't be like that. Tell you what, why don't we make some hot coco and we can watch whatever movie you want"

"Mmmhmmhmhm" he grumped but complied as you led him to the kitchen.

He clung to you the rest of the evening and consistently snuggled his face into your neck during the movie.

Donnie:

Low-key grossed out by the idea of a needle going through someone.

Even more grossed out that you decided to #1. Do it yourself, and #2. Pierce your tongue.

Just, ewww.

But then you had the GALL to ask him if he could help you and he's just like, with what??

I'm not touching your tongue and I am sure not stabbing it with a needle, so what do you want from me??

Will tell you about the multitude of mouth infections you could get from a tongue piercing

Will be there the entire time to make sure you don't hurt yourself, though he has to look away when you actually put the needle through.

Again, ew.

Even though he finds the whole idea gross, he will admit that when all was said and done, it looked good on you.

Your probably the only person he thinks looks good with one.

"I'm sure Mikey would be more than happy to help you."

"No Donnie! I asked YOU cuz I want YOUR help!"

You told Donnie all the time how you wanted a tongue piercing. You were just to lazy to get it done professionally and frankly, you don't want a stranger prodding your mouth. When you realized you could do it yourself, you were so excited. Donnie helping you would just make it all that much better!

"Y/n, while I am happy to assist you in any matter and am glad you came to me for such, I'm afraid I cannot help you in this matter."

"Why not? Your smart, with your help my piercing will be perfect!"

"Dearest. You are correct, I am smart. However, I am a man if science and my talents lie outside the realm of bodily piercings. Besides, are you aware of the sheer amount of infections a piercing give you? Mouth piercings especially cause quite grotesque infections, and that's not even to mention the damage it can cause to your teeth."

"Awwww." You sighed in disappointment.

"..."

"Though... I suppose nothing stops me from making sure you follow the instructions correctly."

"YAAAY!"

-a couple minutes later-

"Okay, dear, let's go over one more time. Gauze?"

"Yes!" You replied.

"Needle?"

"Yup!"

"Piercing?"

"Yeppers!"

Donnie looked at you for a moment and raised an eyebrow at that response, but kept going regardless.

"Lighter and ice cubes?"

"Yeppiroo!"

"Okay. The first step is to heat the needle."

After carefully going through the instructions you finally got your long awaited tongue piercing! However Donnie didn't think you had started to pierce your tongue and saw you with a needle halfway through your tongue before looking away and gaging, which you couldn't help but laugh at. That was until Donnie told you to stop before you hurt yourself. Overall, he did make the whole experience, so much better.

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

I hope that was good! Sorry if there are any inaccuracies. I am literally going off of what I saw in the parent trap soooooo. Yeah. There's my first fic.

Imma go to bed now🥱😵

[violivs]

NMTDaily: The first three of Ben’s costume party vlogs (episodes 21, 22, 23)

I’m gonna do these all as a set. They flow together as one long scene, so it makes sense. Then I’ll do another combined post on episodes 24 and 25, the second half of the story of Ben’s party vlogs. Long post under the cut!

Episode 21: hello guys i’m at pedro’s party

- Ben starts out very enthusiastic at the beginning of this clip (party party party!) but immediately gets uncomfortable when people start walking past him and it occurs to him that other people can see him vlogging. Add it to the social anxiety headcanon evidence list!

- Hero walks by and says “Batman.” And here’s the thing: she should be able to guess that it’s Ben in that costume. He’s the only one of the boys who would be filming because he’s the only one with his own channel.

- That means either she really isn’t paying attention, or Beatrice never asks where Ben is in front of Hero- or, Hero chooses not to tell Bea that Ben is there or what his costume is.

- Or she does tell Bea and Bea knows it’s Ben she’s talking to when she fires off all those insults later. I tend to think Bea does not realize she’s talking to Ben in that moment, but I had to mention the possibility.

- I’m going to watch the Bea insults Ben at the party clip now, just for fun. That video will still get its own post later, this is just an experiment to see if watching that scene first gives me any new insight into Ben’s videos about it.

- It is interesting to think about the fact that if you’re watching the series as it airs in 2014, at this point you don’t know if you’ll ever actually see the Bea insulting Ben scene itself. For all you know, Ben’s POV might be the only one you get.

- We can assume that in between this video and the next, Ben finds Pedro’s laptop, posts this video (unless he filmed and posted the first video on his phone, which seems unlikely but would be faster), then joins the party and starts drinking and dancing. In a break from the dancing he has the conversation with Beatrice, has his feelings hurt, goes and gets Pedro’s laptop and the camera, and holes up in the bathroom because it’s a convenient and private place to mope.

Episode 22: bath time it’s a bath im not actually having a bath

- First of all, shoutout to belovedcreation’s Beadick anniversary future fanfic that’s named after this episode (rated M so look it up only if you’re cool with that)

- Okay, back to the present. “Parties bring out the sad bitterness in people” definitely feels connected to “vlogging takes the sadness away”. I think this is the episode that starts Ben down the path of emotional dependence on the camera. He’s hurt, and it makes him want to brood alone instead of talk to anyone in person about it.

- “Some… princesses… are bad for your health” is a hell of a line, lol

- “Bad for your mental stability and your general well being” oh hohohoho don’t get me started on your mental health mister, I’ve literally written novellas.

- “Not to mess with people’s emotions or screw with their heads” - That’s interesting, because it sounds like Ben thinks Beatrice did know it was him she was talking to, and that she was insulting him to his face on purpose.

- “When you have a bad thought, you should just keep it to yourself.” Says the guy who called Beatrice a bitchface on camera and posted it. As lovingly as possible, *Meg’s Hypocritical song from lolilo plays in the distance*

- “Go away, I’m Batman!” Another underrated classic NMTD moment right here. I almost forget that he’s talking in the Batman voice until this line, and it cracks me up every time.

- Best comments: esthereckstein2532 from 7 years ago with “why is Ben equal parts annoying as heck and adorable?” (Huge mood, very true), and speaker8417 from three years ago with “Legit thought of the song Michael in the Bathroom” (I’m dying I’ve died I’m dead this is SUCH a great call lmao)

- Making a Ben gifset from this series of episodes with Michael in the Bathroom lyrics, BRB. Can’t believe I hadn’t heard that song yet when I made the nmtd musicals fanmix or that would’ve been on it for sure!

Episode 23: Claudio joins me in the bath of emotion

- The official coining of the term “bath of emotion”! A historic NMTD moment.

- Is it me or is Ben acting 100% more drunk in this episode than the last one? I bet he was drinking while uploading the last video. Not healthy to drink alone, bud.

- the video description is adorable. “Computer is in bathroom but not wet. Pedro has lent me his computer but he does not know this has happened.” Drunk Ben is ADORABLE.

- “parties are a gateway to a spiral of doom and awkwardness” sounds about right. That’s rough, buddy.

- Claudio arrives! Ben is so happy to see him!

- Notice here that Claudio is dressed as a cowboy, because he’s been watching Hero’s videos and knows she wanted someone to go as a cowboy! Cute, but also how does he not know Hero likes him if he’s watching the videos? Either he’s just that insecure, or maybe he doesn’t really watch the videos and Ben told him Hero wanted him to go as a cowboy? Idk

- “you silly billy” “I am a little tipsy yes” ADORABLE

- Why is “he’s stating the obvious now isn’t he” the actual flirtiest thing Ben has ever said lol

- There it is, he DOES have a drink with him, he did get drunker between last episode and this episode

- “I don’t know what it is but it’s so good, it makes my tongue go all tingly” Ben. That might mean you’re allergic to it. Don’t ever drink something if you don’t know what it is! (It’s probably just that it’s carbonated, but still.)

- “The camera takes your sadness and makes it go poof” is an important character sentiment for Ben that will come up again. This IS where his attachment to the camera first starts to get unhealthy!

- “Like tears in the rain” listen I love this loser SO MUCH

- I said he was a sad wet cat of a drunk, but Ben is also a very silly drunk. Scolding the camera for making Claudio sad, awww

- “not the camera, the Captain” Pedro is the captain before he’s even himself, no wonder he feels so pressured to be perfect

- “this EXHAUSTIVELY DOWNER PARTY” meanwhile the background music is all cheery and everyone besides Ben and Claudio are dancing and having a grand old time

- Claudio, if you were brave enough to talk to Hero yourself when you have a question for her, you would avoid a lot of heartache.

- “he hasn’t gotten her for you, he’s gotten her from you” you’re not even dating yet and she can make her own choices!

- “the party’s been infected by a sadness bug” this sounds like a Doctor Who plot or something tbh

- “look at his little face!” Ben doing to Claudio what I want to do to Ben, he’s so squishy!

- “that hurts!” “I know it does, buddy, but you will get through it! You’re a brave little soldier!” Lol amazing

- Claudio is angry angsty, while Ben is sad angsty. You can tell Claudio will lash out at others about it while Ben will mostly just lash out at himself and the camera.

- Claudio leaves, Ben promises to tell Hero bye for him, and turns off the camera. Why are these all separate videos he turns the camera off after making? Maybe shorter videos are easier to edit quicker.

- Comments: loving on Tipsy Ben, being sad for Claudio, clocking Claudio’s cowboy costume as being for Hero. One comment saying Claudio doesn’t even seem to like Ben, which makes me sad because Ben is currently worrying that his friends don’t like him.

- Favorite comment: sydneymcgowan with “he looks like a little angel boy aw Ben”

- Indeed that’s my little angel boy and I LOVE HIM and his squishy face <333

💖🥭🦩

[jerzwriter]

What Happened in Vegas Chapter 4 - We did...

Book: Open Heart (Book 2)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Casey MacTavish)

Rating: Teen

Warnings: Some suggestive content, limited/not explicit.

Category: Series - AU

Words: 4,575

Series Summary: Casey & her roommates are heading to Vegas, intent on taking down Declan Nash and Panacea, but this time, Dr. Ethan Ramsey is in tow.

Chapter 4: Their hangover was cured quickly when they woke up to shocking news that neither could recall, so what happens next? Ethan & Casey retrace their steps in hopes of something sparking a memory and make some revelations along the way.

A/N: Hey everyone, the dog, the child, and Kevin McCarthy were not stopping me from finishing this today! 😂 Quick note, the laws regarding getting married in Vegas are pretty lax, but you can't merely walk into a chapel and get married, but I took creative liberties. I hope you enjoy the story. @choicesjanuarychallenge - Day 4 - Self-Reflection

Artwork for this chapter by the lovely @/artbyainna.

Catch up here

"MARRIED?"

Moving wasn’t a consideration, so he didn’t even try; after all, it felt as if his bones had turned into lead. Shock was apparent in his voice, but his face was devoid of emotion. Perhaps his flesh was now immobile, too. After this news, anything was possible.

MARRIED.

With the two doctors rendered speechless, the word hung in the air, clanging like a chime in Casey’s ears as she frantically paced the room.

"I know!" She finally replied with a nervous giggle and a racing heart. “It can’t be! It’s impossible! Right?”

Panicking, she silently prayed that this was a joke. After so much turmoil, she and Ethan were finally in a good place. Yes, they had to remain a secret for now, but they were in love and happy. She was confident they had a future together. Yet she was intimately acquainted with every brick she had to dismantle in the wall that had surrounded Ethan’s heart, and she was certain this would have him rushing to rebuild.

"We were so drunk!" she insisted. "They wouldn't issue a marriage license to anyone in that condition…. Would they?"

"I… I…," he stammered. "It is Vegas."

"Look, it’s OK," she attempted to assure. “Everything is fine. Like you said, it’s Vegas… right? Vegas. We can’t possibly be the first couple to drunkenly get hitched. If you can get married in a day, I’m sure you can get an annulment in a day, too, right?”

“I…I’m not sure it works that way.”

“It has to!” She yelled, pulling her phone from her purse. “I’m Googling it right now! You should too.”

But Ethan still couldn't bring himself to move, and the longer he remained in this comatose state, the more unraveled Casey became.

“Ethan!” She yelled, finally causing him to jump. “Take out your goddamn phone!”

“Casey, I think we should….”

“GOOGLE IT!!!”

He knew Casey was right; action was needed. And the first thing he needed to do was to get his girlfriend… uh… wife?… to stop hyperventilating. Gently grasping her shoulder, he pulled her close and kept her in place despite her attempts to squirm away.   

“Casey, Casey!” he hollered. “You have to take a breath! We’ll figure this out, but panicking won’t solve anything. Who knows if this is even legitimate?”

“I don’t know,” she worried. “It looks legit.”

“Does it say where this took place?”

“At the Blue Bell Chappel.”

“OK, we have a starting point. Let me call them.”

Casey sat at the foot of the bed as he rapidly dialed. 

“Hello, you have reached the Blue Bell Chappel of Love… if you’re hearing this message, we’re making someone’s dreams come true….”

“Or maybe their nightmare!” Ethan muttered.

“Please leave your name and number, and we’ll call you back as soon as they say I do!”

As Ethan left a detailed message just as Casey let out a scream. Clenching his eyes, Ethan turned around with trepidation.

“That can’t be good. What else did we do? Rob a bank? Take a hostage?”

“No. But apparently, you sprung for Blue Bell’s triple diamond package because our ceremony was recorded.”

“Recorded? How… how do you know that?”

Casey tossed her phone in his direction like it was a hot potato. “Because it’s posted on their website!”

“It’s post… it’s posted….”

“Not only posted, but we’re the freaking ‘Couple of the Week’!”

“No,” he breathed. Moments away from hyperventilating, he fought to keep his composure. “Did you see it?”

“NO!” she shrieked. “NO! We have to have it taken down! What if someone else sees this?”

Ethan pinched the bridge of his nose, relieved to hear his phone ring.

“Ethan Ramsey,” he answered.

“Hello, Mr. Ramsey. This is Edna from the Blue Bell Chapel. You left a….”

“EDNA! I think… I think I may have gotten married there last night.”

“You think?” Edna quipped. “I’d assume that’s the sort of thing someone would remember, don’t ya think?”

“Not if they are completely inebriated! And if your establishment actually allowed us to be wed in that state, I assure you, I will have a lawyer on this.”

“Mr. Ramsey, I…”

“DOCTOR Ramsey!” he corrected.

“Not the time to worry about your title, Ethan!” Casey scolded. “Just get them to take the ceremony down!”

“The cer, the cer… YES! I need you to take that down IMMEDIATELY! I insist!”

“You insist?” Edna asked. “Last night you insisted we put it up! You said you wanted the whole world to see it!”

“I WAS DRUNK, EDNA! And now, sober Ethan Ramsey is telling you, you NEED to get rid of that recording!”

“Fine… I’ll delete it.”

“NO!” Ethan gasped. “I said take it down from your webpage… I didn’t say delete it!”

“Why are you so… Wait, what’s going on here? One of you isn't married to someone else, are you? Cause we got laws about those things. Even here in Vegas!”

“No! I’m not married. Well, I might be now. I… I don’t know.”

“Listen, why don’t you come down here? You can watch the ceremony, and maybe being here will jog your memory. But I’m telling you: you and your pretty lady sure weren’t acting like a couple who didn’t want to get married. Come on down. It can’t hurt.”

“I guess it’s a start. We’ll head over now.”

Casey stood next to him with pleading eyes. “Tell me it's all a misunderstanding. We're not married, right?”

“It… it appears we are. Why don’t we head down there, try to piece this thing together… and take it from there?”

Casey diverted her eyes, nodding slowly as she felt the gravity of the situation sinking in. Ethan slipped his hand in hers and started toward the door, but she pulled him back.

“Wait!” she blurted. “Before we go… I have to ask...”

“What is it?”

“Ethan, you’re… you’re not going to break up with me, are you?” she asked with a quivering voice.

“What?” he asked, brow furrowed in confusion as she stood, practically shaking, before him.

“I don’t remember this either. You know that, right? I wasn’t trying to trick you into anything….I hope you know...."

“Casey!” He cupped her face in his hands and brushed away an errant tear. “The thought never even crossed my mind. And why would I break up with you?”  

“Because you were terrified to even date me, and marriage… you don’t even believe in marriage. But you know I do. So I don’t want you to get spooked and call things off.”

Ethan's heart sank, and those bones he believed had turned to lead now dissolved into jelly. His body slumped as guilt coursed through his veins. Of course she was frightened; given their history, she’d be a fool not to be.

“Casey, baby,” he whispered. “Whatever happened last night, we were both there, we’re both responsible, and we’ll handle it together. I don’t blame you, and I’m not going anywhere.”

“Are you sure?” she asked, pulling him close.

“One hundred percent. I love you. It took me a long time to admit it, I know, but I am exactly where I want to be. You don’t have to worry…” he smiled gently. “… not about me leaving you, anyway.”

“OK,” she smiled. “I feel a little better.”

“Good. So, can we go?”

“Yes! Please!”

~~~~~

Though they never let go of each other’s hand, the ride to the chapel was filled with tension. Nary a word was uttered until the silence was broken by a stream of unladylike curses falling from Casey’s lips. 

“It's Sienna,” she mouthed as she answered her phone. As cheerful as could be, she was about to deliver another stellar performance. It may have taken a little work, but she convinced her inquisitive friend that she was fine... just needed to clear her head, so being with her med school friends was a great distraction. Once she assured her she’d be back for the roommate's celebratory dinner, Sienna relented. But while her best friend may have felt better, Casey only felt guilt. 

“I hate lying to her,” Casey sighed.

“I understand, but these are extraordinary circumstances….”

“I don’t mean just now,” Casey snapped. “I’ve hated lying to her about us all along.”

He lifted her hand to his lips and gently kissed her knuckles. He was about to impart some Ramsey-level wisdom when Casey gasped.

 “Oh my God! I remember this,” she screamed. “Driver! Are we near the chapel?”

“Sure are! Just a couple of blocks away.”

“Ethan, we have to get out!”

“Here? Are you insane? It’s 102 in the shade today!”

“I don't care! I remember that taco stand from last night. We were driving by, and I said I was hungry and wanted a taco.”

Ethan’s eyes went wide. “You did! And I told the driver to let us out… he hesitated because the security guard told him to make sure we got to our hotel….”

“…. but we insisted we were sober enough to walk the rest of the way! I don’t care if it’s hot. We have to get out!”

Ethan shaded his eyes as he exited the cab, looking for anything that looked familiar.   “Some of this is coming back to me.”

“Me too! Now, buy me a taco.”

He turned to her with a scrunched nose, “Are you serious?”

“As a heart attack! If we’re reenacting this thing, it’s go big or go home. Now, get out your wallet and buy me a taco!”

“Considering that we apparently got married last night, I think we already went big, but sure,” he grabbed his wallet. “What kind of taco would you like.”

One hand cradled her elbow as the other rubbed her chin. She studied the menu as intensely as she had studied for the MCATs years before. After several minutes passed, Ethan’s patience was wearing thin.

“Casey! There are eight choices! How long do you need?”

“Ethan! I take my tacos very seriously!”

“I understand,” he exasperated. “But considering the other rash decisions we’ve made in the past 24 hours, this choice seems to pale in comparison.”

Both of their heads turned to the chuckling old man working behind the counter.

“Is something funny?” Ethan asked.

“It’s just that you two sound exactly like you did last night!”

“Wait!” Casey yelled. “Did you serve us last night?”

“Sure did,” he grinned, "and you were just as undecided then.”

“Was I just as irritated?” Ethan smirked.

“You? Nah! You were clinging to her and slobbering all over her shoulder. I don’t think you had a care in the world.”

Ethan ran a hand down his reddened face. “Oh, my God.”

“Oh really?” Casey teased. “So he was being nicer to me then, was he?”

“You can say that,” the man nodded.

“Do you remember what I ended up ordering?”

“You went with the fish taco. And then,” he hesitated, his cheeks turning a bright shade of crimson. “You know what… nevermind.”

“NO!” Casey insisted. “Please! See, we don’t remember everything that happened last night, and we’re trying to retrace our steps, hoping something will jog our memory. Please! We can take it, whatever it is.”

He seemed to squirm as he rubbed the back of his neck, carefully eyeing Ethanto to gauge his potential reaction. Ever the diagnostician, Ethan picked up on it at once and moved to reassure him.

“Please, it could really help us. I don’t care what it is.”

“Well,” he quivered, “you said that you were usually the one who wanted a fish taco, but you didn’t get it at a taco stand….”

Casey held up her hand, unsure if she wanted to laugh or cry. “OK, STOP! Stop! Say no more! We get the idea.” 

Ethan quietly slipped on his sunglasses as if they would help him disappear.

“That… doesn’t sound like something I’d say…” he muttered.

“Well, you weren’t exactly sober, pal.”

Ethan turned to Casey in desperation. “Have you settled on a fish taco, so we can leave with a shred of our dignity?”

“It’s Vegas,” Casey shrugged, “no one really has dignity.”

He slapped a few bills on the counter, wondering if it was possible to die of mortification “One fish taco, please!” He couldn’t get away fast enough.

With Casey completely engrossed with her taco, they walked side-by-side to the chapel.

“You know,” she mumbled with a full mouth and messy hands. “On the way back, we should pick up more of these. They’re delicious!”

Ethan shook his head with a chuckle. “Only you would make tacos a priority right now.”

“Hey, when all else fails… tacos are always there for me,” she grinned. But the grin disappeared when she found herself in front of a towering sigh. “Oh, shit. The scene of the crime!”

“The Blue Bell Chapel,” Ethan groaned. “You know, I never pictured myself getting married, but if I ever would have, this is the last place it would be.”

“Well, like the old man said, you weren’t exactly sober. In fact…”

“In fact, what? Do you remember something?”

“YES!” She blurted.  “We were walking here, arm-in-arm, and you were laughing… you kept saying how much you loved Vegas, and I reminded you that you hated Vegas.”

“… and I said I didn’t hate it tonight… then we kissed….”

“… and you stumbled and nearly dragged me down with you! We almost crashed into a bride and groom running out of the chapel!”

“YES!” Ethan exclaimed. “And while you apologized, you tripped... and your taco fell to the ground….”

“An absolute tragedy!”

“You apologized to the bride again, and she said not to worry but asked you to take a picture!”

“I took the picture,” Casey said, “I can only imagine how bad it was considering I could  barely see straight.”

“Then we waved them off together! I think…” Ethan snapped his fingers.

“You think what?” Casey demanded.

“I may have thrown popcorn at them as they departed.”

“You were definitely drunk! But I remember they were such a cute couple!”

“OK… I’m remembering….”

“Oh my God, so am I!”

Casey couldn’t contain her excitement as the car drove away. Waving frantically, she jumped up and down, coming perilously close to falling. 

“They are so cuuuuuuute! Ethan, aren’t they cuuuuuuute?”

But Ethan had lost all interest in the departing couple. His eyes were fixed on his girlfriend’s… uh… assets… as she bounced away.

“Uh… yeah, cute! So… so cute….” he sputtered.

“Are we that cute, Ethan?” Casey asked, falling into his arms with a grimace. “I don’t know if we’re that cute.”

“What? We’re cuter!” He insisted. 

“We are?”

“Yes… and… and sexier, too!” Lifting his arms to show off his muscles, he spun around on unsteady legs. “Look at me! This… is… sexy!”

Casey only stopped laughing long enough to wolf-whistle, then she shimmied seductively in his direction. "Am I sexy too?" she asked.   Ethan didn’t answer with words, but the lecherous smile on his lips as his hands began to run over her every curve provided all the answers she needed.

An elderly couple passing by appeared to be equal parts entertained and repulsed by the tipsy couple. The man laughed and yelled, “Get a room!”

“But have him put a ring on that hand first,” his wife winked, and they were on their way.

Casey let out a long sigh. “I did make it entirely too easy for you, didn’t I?”

“What do you mean?” Ethan asked, still pawing at her.

“I was always there when you wanted me… always waiting,” she slurred. Pulling back, she grabbed his face and ran her hands through his hair. “But I loved you, Ethan,” she said far more earnestly. “I loved you all along.”

He looked at her intently, with a thoughtful expression on his face. He couldn’t get over how beautiful she was, not only tonight but always. And not just physically, but in every possible way. She waited for him. She was willing to lie to her best friend for him. And she loved him like he’d never been loved before.

“Ethan,” Casey laughed, shaking him back to reality. “What are you thinking?”

“Marry me.”

Casey appeared shocked but was certain it was a joke. “Sure, let’s just mosey in here and get hitched.” she laughed. She took his hand and began to drag him away from the chapel, but he tugged at her arm, stopping her in her tracks.

“That’s what I'm suggesting. Let's do it."

She looked at him as if he had lost his mind, even in an inebriated state. She knew this didn’t sound like Ethan.

“OK, jokes over,” she smirked. “Let’s go.”

“I’m not joking,” he insisted. “I love you… you love me… I never want to be without you, and look!” He pointed dramatically toward the chapel door. “We stopped here. Not in front of a burger joint, or a strip club, or a casino, but here. It’s a sign, Casey.”

“You’re serious?”

“I am,” he suddenly dropped to both knees and let out a small yelp. "I’m serious. Marry me, Casey!”

Her confused look on her face disappeared, replaced with a smile that rivaled the lights on The Strip; she pulled him to his feet and flung her arms around his neck. 

“Let’s do it!” She beamed. “Yes! Let’s do it!”

“So,” Casey swallowed. “That was how it happened.”

“It appears so.”

“But, we were so drunk," she whined. "Aren’t there laws against marrying people in that condition?”

“It’s Vegas, Case. I don’t think that matters much.”

“Well,” she swallowed. "Let’s go inside and face the music… or at least Edna.”

~~~~~

Casey clung to Ethan’s arm as they entered. Both were rendered speechless by the blend of gauche Grecian and Baroque décor surrounding them. 

“I swear to God, if a cupid comes flying out at us,” Ethan grumbled.

“You’re right," Casey laughed. "This is the last place on earth that you’d get married.”

“I’d assume the same would be true for you?” he asked with a raised brow. 

“Nah, I’m way more fun than you. This was always a possibility for me.”

They did their best to keep the mood light, but they were disappointed. The tacky décor may have garnered laughs, but it didn’t spark a single memory. Luckily for them, their conversation with Edna did glean some insight. For example, Ethan had, in fact, sprung for the triple diamond package, as Casey had suspected.

“You insisted… only the best for your bride,” Edna assured. “In fact, I was going to call you two today. You were in such a hurry to get out of here you left this behind.”

Casey reached over the counter and took a small blue gift bag from Edna’s hands.

“What is this?”

“All part of the package. Your wedding album and a link to the recording of your ceremony… don’t worry… it’s passcode protected now; the passcode’s in there. There is also a gift certificate for a cake from Sinful Sweets.”

“I do like cake,” Casey replied, almost sadly.

Edna looked between the two inquisitively. 

“You know, for what it’s worth, you two are the last couple I expected to see back here with buyer remorse… and I’ve been doing this for a long time. I thought you were really in love….”

“We are in love,” Casey defended. “We just…”

“… weren’t planning on getting married,” Ethan finished.

“Well, if you were drunk, the state of Nevada allows you to get an annulment pretty easily. Given your call this morning, I also threw a pamphlet with information on annulments in your bag."

"Do you toss that into these bags often," Ethan simpered.

"You'd be surprised. But you know… sometimes life brings us to the place we are meant to be, even if we don’t realize it.”

“And sometimes people get drunk and make rash decisions,” Ethan countered. “But thank you for your help.”

~~~~~

After another somber taxi drive deposited them back at their hotel. They entered separately, careful not to be seen together. Once they were both inside his room, they kicked off their shoes and fell into bed. The excess alcohol from last night and the emotional shock of today were beginning to take their toll.  

“We should have stopped and gotten our free wedding cake on the way back,” Casey lamented. 

“Do you think of anything other than food?” Ethan asked.

“Sure,” she rolled over and faced him with a smile. “I think of you.”

She could see the tension leaving Ethan’s face with her words; reaching over, he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. 

“I know we’re tired, but I suppose we should watch this thing.”

“I suppose,” Casey replied nervously. “I have a feeling it’s going to be a hot mess.”

“I’m not expecting to see the two of us at our best,” he concurred.

“As long as we’re not like Ross and Rachel. I don't want to see Ethan scribbled across your forehead or kitty whiskers on you.”

“And I'd like to be the only one with a mustache,” he chuckled.

They both shifted, leaning against the pillows as Ethan took out his phone for them to watch.  

“Let’s get this over with,” Casey mumbled.

“Before we do…” he said, taking her hand. “I want you to know I love you, and no matter what we see on this, it doesn’t change that.”

Casey let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding, then reached over for a tender kiss.

“I love you, too, and nothing will change that. But, let’s pull off the bandaid and watch this thing.”

They expected the worst, and it sure started out that way.

Casey tipsily walked down the aisle, bordered by large Grecian columns fashioned of the finest plastic money could buy. Clutching her bouquet in both hands, she teetered on her heels after every few steps. But there was no denying the enormous grin on her face.

“That’s what I get for doing this without my parents,” she sighed.

When she reached Ethan, the two of them broke into a fit of giggles. Stopping only when Ethan spoke.

“You look really, really cute,” he sputtered, causing the two of them to laugh even more.

“Oh, God, this is going to be painful,” he moaned. But Casey shushed him as the officiant began to speak.

“Dearly Beloved, we come together today to join this man and this woman in matrimony. Is there anyone present who knows of a reason why this marriage should not take place?”

“Pffft,” Casey chuckled. “You’re the only one here! If you don’t object, I think we’re good.”

“Uh, you also have me,” Edna hollered from behind. “You need a witness, ya know.”

“So, do you have any reason why we shouldn’t be wed?” Ethan asked.

“Nope. Not a one.”

“Good,” he turned to the officiant with a stern glare. “Then let’s get on with it.”

“Oh, boy…” Casey muttered.

“Do you, Ethan, take this woman to be your wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do,” he replied, with the softest smile on his lips.

“And do you, Casey, take this man to be your husband, to live together in matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”

“I do,” she beamed.

“Then repeat after me, I Ethan, take you, Casey….”

“Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute,” Ethan interrupted. “I’m sorry, I can’t do this.”

“You… you what?” Casey frowned.

“No! Not the wedding, we can do the wedding; but I can’t marry you without saying something first. Casey, you know how much I love you; at least, I hope you do. You came into my life unexpectedly, and you were such a pain in the ass, but that’s honestly the best part about you. That strong, spunky, never give up attitude is what got us here… it certainly wasn’t me. If I had let you go, I would have spent the rest of my life regretting it and living with what a fool I had been. I love you, Casey; thank you for making me see what my heart knew from the start… that you are worth any risk.”

“Awww,” Casey cried, instinctively leaning forward to kiss him.

But that was met with the officiant loudly clearing his throat. “We’re not at the point where you can kiss yet,” he scolded.

“Oops! Sorry!” Casey apologized.

“Again… repeat after me, I Ethan, take you, Casey….”

“Wait, wait, wait!” Casey interrupted.

“Again?” the officiant growled.

“Excuse me!” Ethan shouted. “I paid for the triple diamond package, so if my bride wants to interrupt, she can interrupt.”

The officiant looked back to Edna, who merely shrugged. “He’s got a point!”

“Thank you,” Casey demurred. Reaching up, she gently caressed Ethan’s cheek, her eyes brighter than he had ever seen before. “You know, when we met,  I wasn’t looking to fall in love any more than you were. It wasn’t on my agenda. My residency, my career… they were my focus… they had to be… because I want to be the best… just like you. But it didn’t take me long to realize that sometimes life can take a detour. It can put us on a road we never expected to take, then it leads us to the most beautiful place… one we would have never experienced if we didn’t make that unexpected turn. You’re my beautiful place, Ethan. And I hope you always know just how much I love you.”

Ethan’s face was aglow as a single tear trickled down his cheek. Pulling Casey close, he went to kiss her when….

“AHEM!” The officiant was growing tired.

“Sorry,” Ethan smiled. “But could you get through the rest quickly? We’d really want to kiss.”

“I’ll see what I can do,” he grinned and went on to oblige Ethan's request. Within moments, the ceremony was nearing it's end.

“By virtue of the authority vested in me under the laws of the State of Nevada, I now pronounce you husband and wife. And, at long last, you may kiss your bride.”

The Wedding March march blared from the speakers overhead as Ethan and Casey shared a passionate kiss under the fistfuls of confetti and rose petals, tossed their way by Edna.

Casey tapped Ethan’s hand, and he stopped the recording on the phone. Both overcome, they lay next to each other without saying a word.

“Well,” Casey said after several moments passed. “That wasn't what I expected.”

“No,” Ethan agreed. “It wasn’t what I anticipated either.”

“Do you need to be drunk to speak so sweetly to me, Dr. Ramsey,” she teased.

“Really?”

“I’m just kidding. You’ve come a long way.”

With a deep sigh, Casey sat on the edge of the bed and grabbed the blue bag from the chapel. Pulling out the annulment pamphlet, she began to read.

“Well, Vegas may let you marry in a day, but it looks like it takes up to three weeks to get out of it.”  Tapping the brochure nervously in her hand, she began to stand. “I suppose we should start the process right away. Maybe before we leave, we should stop....”

But her words and movements halted when Ethan reached out and tugged her arm. She turned to him with a questioning look as he took her hand.

“What if we don’t….” he asked, as her eyes opened wide.

“What?”

“What if we don’t. Casey, stay married to me.”

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More tags in reblog.

[absent-o-minded]

Still too busy to start writing an essay so here's a (selective) dive into my emotional state whilst watching S2:

MOMENTS I CRIED AT:

The Opening second of S2 because I was too excited and overwhelmed

Simon's reaction to getting the solo (I had to pause bc I was genuinely clutching my chest over how happy he was.)

When Wille was putting on the Ball make-up and started crying over how he was becoming exactly the thing he didn't want to be

Wille's reaction after kissing Simon for the first time since last Christmas

Sara's confession about the whole video INITIALLY, and then my tears got more violent when I looked at Simon's face. He didn't even need to say anything, you could already see it (To anyone who posted hate abt Simon this season - We duel at dawn.)

Wille's closing speech; I genuinely thought that he was just going to abdicate, I WAS NOT expecting that.

MOMENTS I (very) NEARLY CRIED AT:

Stella's poem to Fredrika x the 'I'd rather be secretly in love with her than be some ex that she hates'....bro.

The flashback of Erik giving the Frog globe (specifically placed right after it smashes)

When Wille hugged Kristina and Lugwid (LISTEN, HERE ME OUT- Physicality is everything with and for Wille, and to see affection between himself and his parents was emotional.)

Seeing Felice getting her hair done in a salon x Her feeling comfortable in her skin and embracing her natural hair

The Book Discussion Scene - I am bias bc I'm a Literature student but it was so beautifully done

Simon singing THE song at the Ball

Wille's 'I met a friend last term who stirred new feelings in me...in a way, I wish that it never happened, because then I wouldn't know what it feels like' I'M DONE, DUDE, I CAN'T DO THIS-

Wille closing the curtains and then the two laughing...it's cyclical guys...

MOMENTS I LAUGHED AT:

Rosh and Ayub being cupids on the bus and chanting 'REBOUND' (I can't even begin to describe how much I love these two)

Simon and Ayub arguing over what the actual name of Rosh's ex is ('Just like Yasmine.' 'Yasmina.' 'No, Yasmine' 'It's Yasmina, bro.')

When Wille was threatening the Royal Court with going on social media after watching the video of Simon x Marcus at the Karaoke place

Simon lobbing that ball at Wille during Doggeball (With BRUTE. STRENGTH. AND. SPITE.)

Vincent's 'GODMORGON FUCKERS' at the running meet-up

Wille's face @ Nils when he says that he matched with Marcus on Grindr

Post-Romantic Book Discussion SceneTM where Simon is like 'And we don't know what happened after...' and Sara just goes 'Well she killed herself' LSKSLKS

As sad as the scene was, I nearly lost it when Wille put on that fucking wig

Boris curiously watching the utter chaos of Wille's speech at the end as if he didn't 100% contribute to that happening

Speaking of the closing speech, very much amused at the Queen's '*0*' face at hearing Wille admit that it was him

MOMENTS I '???' AT:

Nils saying that Erik saw Boris and that he was 'LGBTQ' certified (Hello?...Is there a connection here?)

Exactly leading on from this - The rumour that Erik dated a girl who did OnlyFans? (This could've easily gone into the laugh list but my initial reaction was just 'wait, what did he say?')

Marcus saying dumb shit like 'I know you don't want to destroy something this beautiful' and 'You're not your Dad'. AFTER A WEEK (Dude...Go listen to 'Take A Hint' by the Victorious Cast 2012 and think about what you just said.)

When August was giving the whole mucho 'OOoo, but if he goes to the police then what about the drug stuff?' SHUT UP FAM

When Kristina told Wilhelm that should he fail to ascend the throne, then August would be next in line. (I mean, I already knew that this was coming so I don't know why I was shocked, but I was shocked)

MOMENTS I '!!!' AT:

When Stella said 'Yeah, we don't keep secrets' and Sara said 'Don't we?' looking directly at her. (My heart has never jumped sm in my life)

Wille legit pointing a gun at August (...If it was me walking by, I would look the other way. If I was a Hillerska student walking by, I would look the other way. If I was some random dog-walking-in-a-field stranger passing by...I would STILL look the other way.)

When Simon ran after Wille and called out his name as Wille was walking down the steps (My hands were flapping in excitement)

The 'They don;t have names' line. CINEMATIC POETRY.

I was really excited by some of the shots/angles this season bc some of them are beautiful (Just to name a few: The Corridor I Love You Scene, The First Look since Christmas Scene, The Ball Sequence etc etc)

When Sara just straight up told August that she wanted to sleep with him, no hesitation, just saying at it is.

When Marcus was batting back at Simon for breaking up with him (I was initially shocked and was ready to rinse Marcus, but after thinking about it, they were hard truths that Simon needed to hear…And as much as Simon shouldn’t have used him as a rebound, Marcus is still a manipulative gaslighter.)

THE SOUNDTRACK - It SLAPPED SO HARD. It was bop after bop. Was I crying whilst bopping at some. Maybe. Was I creaking my bed bc I was dancing so hard at some?

[mercutio-stan]

hey man welcome to the summer sons brainrot‼️ lmao. idk where ur at in the book but the freak intensity and need to commit road law violations never goes away (i finished it in october 2022, six rereads since then n jonesing for a seventh, my driving has just gotten worse 💯). who’s ur favorite character thus far? peace n love bro

I LEGIT NEVER CHECK MY INBOX HELLO HELLO SO SORRY I MISSED YOU!! I have reread Summer Sons three times in the two-ish weeks since I first finished it. I am indeed a full time student that just came back for the spring semester. Yes I am neglecting school work in the name of rereading this book. This shit is so crazy I love it sooooo much. I love Andrew and Sam’s unhinged dynamic but if I had to pick a favorite character I would say Riley. What a nice, normal man. I love the scene where he busts in on Sam and Andrew mid-makeout/haunting and calls him a fucking idiot for walking around with Eddie’s ring. The sibling-dynamic energy of him coming home after Andrew and Sam hooked up to see that they did it in his room and screaming at Andrew to wash his sheets and throwing shit at him. Iconique. And the fact that he was blasting MCR in his car. And has a tattoo of lyrics by The Wonder Years. He’s a loser and a badass simultaneously and had enough game to pull not one but two partners and could have more if he wanted. Riley Sowell is the only man for me.

Also Andrew lowkey lusting after Riley kills me. The scene at Sam’s party where Riley takes off his shirt to mop up Andrew’s bloody nose and Andrew tries to touch his top surgery scars… that is the gayest and horniest thing I’ve ever read thank you Lee Mandelo 🙌 Andrew musing about how easily Riley shape shifts between “grubby punk” and respectable academic. Buddy your homosexuality is showing. I truly believe there is a draft of Summer Sons out there somewhere in which Riley and Andrew explored each other’s bodies.

Anyways anon your message is so deeply appreciated would LOVE to hear about your fav moments and characters this fandom seemingly consists of seven people and a bot but by god y’all seem set on spreading the good word to everyone you can and I thank you for that 🫶

[ifidiedinadream]

story time:

I have an inside joke with my concert buddy and it's about counting how many gigs it takes Ale to stop ignoring me and wave back. So I was at like five gigs and all the interactions I had with him was me waving hello and him just blankly staring and then walking away, not seeing me at all or talking to a person literally next to me, which more often than not happened to be said concert buddy. I've never gone VIP, just a fansign at a festival, where i had gone up to their booth with a copy of LOTSAD and I was kinda tipsy and scared so all i said was 'hi'. AND THIS LITTLE SHIT HAD THE AUDACITY TO LOOK ME STRAIGHT IN THE EYES AND THEN ASK ME HOW I'M FEELING.

I fucking died. The only thing i remember saying was like "bitch i came here from abroad just to see you". I remember him like nudging Olli about that and then they both were like "Oh, this is so sweet of you! Did you like the other artists? Is it your first festival? Do you like it here? How's the beer? How's the weather, does it rain a lot like today? Was it you that brought the CD? Where are you from?"

(i love how they were like "ok lemme kill them")

After that i had to chainsmoke like six cigs to calm down lmao I will remember this forever and he can now ignore me for the rest of my life. I know it's nothing special and most likely was just because (they're sweethearts) they literally have to talk to fans, but I kinda headcannon it as them being legit curious about me. I will not elaborate.

Conclusion: my silly little attention curse has been lifted i guess.

i'm sorry but i'll never stop adoring every single fan experience with ale you guys tell me about he's just the sweetest person ever and i love him immensely okay (olli too olli is super sweet too) 😭😭😭😭😭

this is wonderful and i'm glad you had this experience, im sure you'll treasure it in your heart forever 🖤

and btw i absolutely understand the tipsiness and chainsmoking, i literally had to take one whole gram of xanax before the m&g because i felt like i could collapse from the nerves. but they really put you at ease once you're there

[automatismoateo]

I was splashed with "holy water" without consent at the catholic hospital I work at and I'm actually really frustrated about it. via /r/atheism

I was splashed with "holy water", without consent, at the catholic hospital I work at and I'm actually really frustrated about it. Hello all. Ive been a redditor for a few years and have only commented on the subreddits that I've joined, but this is my first time ever posting something. That being said, I'm an active member in my smallish hometown's subreddit and I don't want anyone figuring out that it's me that's posting this (hence this throwaway account I just made 5 minutes ago) so I just wanted to preface all that. I work in the ER/ED of a catholic hospital that I live 5 Mins away from. I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in biology just over 2 years ago and, having only worked in restaurants my entire life (Im in my 30s), thought it would be a good idea to work in a hospital setting to build my resume bc i want to go to med school/ PA school. So I've worked in this catholic hospital for almost 2 years as a tech since it was the only hospital that would even give me an interview. That being said, in the interview I was assured they were inclusive of all religions etc. Since I'm a pretty outgoing person, most people know I'm extremely anti religion/ Christianity/ catholicism whatever. I even have a pin on my badge that says "maybe today Satan". Fast forward to the event- one of the deacons/priests came to our unit about 10 mins after we had all gotten on the floor and said "everybody huddle up I have some holy water I would like to say a prayer and bless everyone". So I kind of snuck out of the area in order to not be around this witchcraft thing. I just went to the nutrition room, grabbed a coffee and waited about 2 mins for it to be done. I come out of the room and I'm walking to the area I need to be in and I see the priest walking down the hall towards me with his potion, spraying the area as he walks along. As I walk by him, he sprays me with it and I go "are you serious? Why would you do that I didn't want that on me and frankly makes me uncomfortable". To which he replied "oh relax you're not going to sizzle up or catch on fire I know you're a good guy" (he doesn't know I'm an atheist). And then proceeded to splash me AGAIN with this super sacred water. I legit was just in disbelief that it happened and I just stood there for a second and walked to my other coworkers and immediately starting saying what happened and that it bothered me that he didn't ask me for permission nor respect the boundaries I had quite explicitly laid out. My coworkers were like "he's just trying to bless u blah blah holy water is a good thing" etc. Am I overreacting? Probably. I feel like I am but it just seriously bothers me that I tried to avoid the situation and then he just disregarded me asking him to not do that. Yes, I'm aware of where I work and all that but this is a giant catholic hospital network in multiple states and they're accepting of all faiths (or lack of) and so my thought process is what if he did that to someone who was Muslim or Buddhist or something else? I really shouldn't be surprised I suppose though I mean it's not unheard of for a catholic priest to not care about consent with altar boys or anything. Tldr: splashed by a priest with holy water while walking by him at the catholic hospital I work at, asked him to not do that and he proceeds to do it again. Submitted September 21, 2023 at 06:18PM by LeftMountain5968 (From Reddit https://ift.tt/r0mNK9s)

[unoriginalmess]

A Second Mask: Chapter 4

Did that just happen?

Hello guys! It's me. I'm finally writing again. Sorry about the delay. I'm going to explain more at the end of the chapter, but I'm just going to keep the beginning short. So here is chapter 4:

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To say Adrien was concerned would be a huge understatement. He was downright disturbed. Its been weeks and still Marinette hadn't changed back to the happy, peppy, nice girl that he knew. AND SHE WOULDN'T EVEN TALK TO HIM ABOUT IT!

He tried to talk to her for a whole week after her original trasformation, but after the repeated firm rejections, he stopped altogether. He figured that maybe with some space, she might be able to work through whatever she was going through, but at this point, he's losing hope.

When he is feeling this distressed about something, he usually turns to his lady, but she has been acting weird too. Ever since she suggested they start sparring, she's started to show that she is going through kinda a rough time as well. She is the same ladybug when everyone is watching, but when it's just the two of them, she looks sad and tired. She has also started saying some concerning things while they are sparring. She has started talking about how she has started taking being Ladybug and the Guardian more seriously, and how she has less distractions now, which would be a good thing if she didn't say them so sadly.

The good thing is, the sparring has given him a chance to get out his aggression because of the whole Marinette-situation and his anger at his father in a safe environment. He didn't like the idea of hitting Ladybug at first (especially in the face) but with her not holding back on her hits, he felt more comfortable doing the same. It has helped them fight better too. He hopes that whatever Ladybug is going through in her civillian life will work itself out soon, but until then he will be there for her. He just needs to figure out how to be there for Marinette.

•••

Felix was making good progress with Marinette. After they first asked marinette about (insert fashion question of your choice here, I legit know nothing and I didn't have time to research anything for this chapter), she had started answering their questions on a daily basis. After a couple of days of that, she had started to rant to them about different things in the fashion world that were bothering her, exciting her, or confusing her that particular day. In response to that, they had started to respond to her rants with their own opinions on the subjects and even start their own rants.

It had gotten to the point where Felix would now consider them to be friends, though they know that Marinette would never call them as such, it was fine with them. They know she has trust issues, and they can understand why, so they are fine with being friends in everything but a name.

Felix was looking forward to their daily banter as they waited in their seat for Marinette to arrive. When she did, she was followed by a very pissed-looking Alya. Felix turned to look at her and noticed that she had what looked to be tears forming in her eyes. What they didn't notice was the little black butterfly that had entered through the window in the back of the room, and was making a beeline towards her.

•••

Marinette walked to school in yet another one of her newest fashion creations: a pair of oversized grey ripped jeans and a navy blue sweatshirt. She was actually really liking her new look, and the comfort that it offered was just an added plus.

She was actually feeling excited to talk to Felix about Gabriel Agreste's newest fashion flop. They were the only person that she had met that actually cared about fashion as much as her. It made her happy to talk to them. It kind of scared her how excited she was. Shouldn't she be distancing herself from everyone? she thought to herself. No. Felix isn't my friend, they aren't close to me, they are just someone I talk fashion with. Like a coworker, yeah. Totally. Felix is just a coworker. ("Liar" says the inner voice in her head)

She was shocked out of her thoughts when she was pulled to the side by someone as she entered the courtyard. Her mind immediately thought of an akuma, when the person spoke.

"Marinette! Girl," Oh it's just Alya. Wait Alya? "How long are you gonna keep up this cry for attention? Are you really THAT jealous of Lila? I know that Adrien likes her, but that doesn't give you the right to act like this! And you are hanging out with Felix, who accused her of sexually harrassing Adrien on their first day here-?" She looked absolutely furious at her, but Marinette had heard enough. She cut Alya off in the middle of her presumably long rant.

"ALYA!" Said girl jumped at both the inturruption and the tone of voice used, "First of all, this isn't a cry for attention, if anything its a cry for leaving me the fuck alone. Second of all, I'm not jealous of Lila. I'm not in love with Adrien anymore, and haven't been for a while. You knew that I was dating Luka right? Why would I care who Adrien likes? Lastly, I am allowed to hang out with whoever I choose, whether you like them or not. It's none of your fucking business Alya, and if you think that I'm just some jealous, attention-seeker why do you even care?" With that last question she stormed off to the classroom, leaving a speechless Alya behind her.

When marinette sat down in her seat, she just kept thinking about how Alya was just talking to her. How could she think that about her? They used to be best friends, and Alya wasn't even concerned about her not talking to her anymore, she was just concerned about her being "jealous of Lila". It made her so furious that she could feel tears trickling down her face. She sees the black butterfly out of the corner of her eye and without hesitation grabs it out of the air.

(Next part is taken from this post by @bigfatbreak)

"Go ahead and akumatize me- See what happens, Hawkmoth!" She screamed the words with a slight madness that the energy of the akuma was giving her, "Every leash has two ends! I just have to pull until I find where you're holding it!"

At this point, the entire class was frozen in place watching her and listening to her crazed-sounding voice threaten an actual terrorist. Marinette felt Hawkmoth's confusion and terror through the bond. What in the- She's sensing me through the Akuma?! The akuma then started to fly away, and when it couldn't it zapped her hand like it was made of lightning and fluttered through the same window it came from. Marinette felt like she had failed yet again and collapsed down on her desk, muttering, "Uuuuggghh. It escaped anyway... What a waste. I didn't realize that Hawkmoth was such a coward. He usually likes grandstand..."

She was startled when her hand was picked up by Felix's, "You likely scared him off by managing to locate him like that... A risky move, I should mention. I would ask that you not attempt that a second time. No one knows what his akuma is truly capable of. You'll want to keep off of this hand for a while, too."

"Oh, are those the doctor's orders? Why, Felix, it almost sounds like you care about meeee." Marinette was all too amused by Felix's concern for her. She also liked to tease them... AS COWORKERS DO.

"I have an investment in your presence. Now don't be cheeky and let's get you to the nurse's office," They said while holding her wrist and gently pulling her in that direction.

Marinette scoffed, "'An investment in my presence'??"

Felix chuckled while still semi-dragging her by the wrist towards the front of the room, being careful not to hurt her injury even worse, "What did I just say about being cheeky?"

On their way out of the door they passed a VERY distressed-looking Adrien. He seemed to be sharing the sentiment with the entire class of: Did that just happen?

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And thats chapter 4. It is VERY LATE! I know. I've been swamped with work, and when I went to write it, I had zero ideas on how to write this chapter. I never ended up getting those ideas. I just went where my writing took me, so if it doesn't really match the characters that's why. I will try to be better at updating regularly, but it probably won't happen. Sorry to everyone with a normal sleep schedule, but this is the time that I write things. Also I didn't have my outline with me while writing this chapter, so it might not have everything I planned to write in it.

I would like to thank you all for all of the support I've been getting on this fic. Despite all of the chapter delays, you guys have stuck with me through all of it, so thank each and every one of you. I love seeing so many people loving this au as much as I do. Without you guys this story wouldn't exist, and I would've stopped writing it after the first chapter.

As always, constructive criticism is always accepted. I love being able to improve my writing whenever possible.

Thank you for reading. Have a nice day/night/whenever you are reading this. See ya next time guys, gals, and non-binary pals.

Taglist

@queer-illusion @apasponsor @heckinggremlin @1-ahiro-1 @hewantedbeefintheparkinglot @sassakitty @lennauts @rianoel @dorkus-minimus @khneltea @welp-that-was-unexpected @mlnchlymrshmllw @lovelyautumnsunflower @chariphrasis @lovesbooks @komatsuna-yuki @polyvirnl @innocentlyguiltyfrenchfry @qhobias @ive-tumbled-down-a-rabbit-hole @hammalammadamdam @cloudydaysomewhere @alcoholic-barney @basenikon @xxbehindthemaskxx @corporeal-terrestrial @shadowymemoirs @moonlight-densetsuu

[darthkruge]

hello lovely!! i’ve been getting back into star wars lately and i’ve been loving your fics!! and i was wondering if i could make a request?? sort of like,, anakin but he doesn’t turn to the dark side type thing?? like he maybe confesses he’s scared to lose you and you help him through it?? maybe obi wan helps out?? honestly you can take it however you want :)) ty ty

anakin skywalker x reader || rewritten

summary || a rots fix it fic where i take many liberties and give anakin a support system + everyone gets better communication and we think about how it would perhaps end differently

warnings || hella canon divergence, angst w/ a happy ending, some violence (non graphic and not super described)

words || 5.1k (i am legit shocked)

a/n || hello and thank you!! i’m so glad you’ve been loving my fics! this fic was honestly super challenging for me and it ended up being the longest thing i’ve ever written. i made some big changes and lots of smaller ones, but each one was fully intentional. i really, really hope y’all like it <3

main masterlist || anakin masterlist 

gif credit

-----

Anakin awoke with a start, chest heaving and covered in sweat. He was gripping the blankets as he tried to ground himself, frantically looking around as if to discern between reality and the horrid dreamscape his mind created. He whipped his head to the side, visibly relaxing as he saw you staring up at him, a confused look on your face. 

You were no stranger to Anakin’s nightmares but this one seemed unlike any he’d ever had. You slept curled into him and, thus, his jolt caused one of your own. Unsure if he wanted your touch just yet, you reached out to him with the Force. Panic, loss, grief, fear, terror, insecurity. You looked into his eyes, watching as they slowly cleared and he registered your presence. He blinked quickly, trying to clear the tears from his vision and gave you a slight nod. 

Reaching a tentative hand to his shoulder, you suppressed a gasp as you felt him shudder beneath you. You quietly whispered his name and placed a finger under his jaw, guiding his face to yours. You nodded back at him and opened your arms in silent invitation. He crawled into your embrace as you pulled him impossibly close to you, situating yourself against the headboard so you could better wrap yourself around his shaking body. Choked sobs erupted from his lips, each one tearing a hole in your heart. As he finally let himself cry with his face buried into your neck, you held him. By the Maker, you held him. 

He didn’t want to speak just yet and you understood. You’ve always extended the same respect back to him as he gives to you. Tucked into you, Anakin’s fingers squeezed into your flesh, as if trying to remind himself you were solid. You placed a few kisses into his soft hair and onto his forehead, hands running up and down his arms and back. You physically pressed reminders of your love into his skin for hours and, somewhere in the midst of your embrace, he let himself fall into a state of limbo. Unawake, unasleep, umoving, yet feeling everything you had to offer. 

----

When morning came, you reached out once again. The emotions from last night were still evident, just not as strong. Simultaneously, you allowed a small smile to come to you as you felt something new. Warmth, comfort, love. You ran your fingers through Anakin’s hair to pull him to consciousness, needing to see his eyes. Stars, his eyes. While they were absolutely gorgeous, they also always gave him away. You once told him that. “Only for you, my love.” He’d replied. 

“Hi.” He croaked out, meeting your gaze. Your eyes fluttered closed for a second as you took a deep breath in relief. His eyes were clear. You didn’t know how long the shadows would be banished for, but as long as they weren’t constant, you had hope. 

“Hi, baby.” You whispered, allowing yourself to give him another forehead kiss, made easy by your position that you’d somehow remained in throughout the night. You looked at him expectantly and knew he knew what you were asking.

“You… you died,” Anakin started. His eyes were already filling with tears. “It wasn’t clear. There was so much blood. And you kept begging me to help you. You screamed and screamed and screamed and you were in agony and…” 

You took his hand in yours, squeezing his fingers in encouragement to go on.

“I never- I never came for you.” He spit the words out as if they were venomous and shook his head. You could hear the self-hatred in his words, the way he couldn’t grasp the concept of hurting you, ever, and yet how seriously he took this. 

“Hey, hey. Stop, my love.” You said, hoping to pull him out of his spiral. “You would never harm me, Anakin. You would come for me, you always have. That was a horrible dream and I’m so sorry you had to experience it. But it was just a dream, Anakin. It’s not real.” 

He pulled away from you as if he couldn’t stand to feel your gentle touch. “No, no, no! It-” His words were cut off by his uneven breathing, his pulse racing as he relived the nightmare. “It felt like the ones I had about my mother. It felt… prophetic. I’m scared, Y/N, I can’t lose you.” 

You walked over to him, placing your hands on his cheeks and rubbing your thumbs over his cheekbones, hoping to calm him. “You won’t. It takes a lot to kill me, you know? Especially when I have you by my side.” 

Anakin nodded but you could tell he was unconvinced. 

“How about you talk to Obi-Wan about the dreams? He’s always helped you before.” You suggested. 

While normally this would be unthinkable, as it would expose your relationship, Anakin felt himself pulled toward the choice. Inwardly, he admitted that he could definitely use a friend right now. And Obi-Wan had always stood by him. Somehow, he just knew that now would be no different.  

------

Obi-Wan easily swung the door open with the Force before Anakin even had a chance to knock. He knew his former Padawan’s force signature like the back of his hand and had sensed his distress for days. Unbeknownst to Anakin, Obi-Wan had canceled his missions due to this, wanting to stay close for when Anakin eventually came to him for guidance. 

Obi-Wan looked up from his paperwork as he realized Anakin refused to come closer. Huddled behind the door frame, a conflicted and fearful look on his face, Obi-Wan was struck by how similar Anakin looked to the little boy he’d found on Tatooine all those years ago. Many nights, young Anakin would come into Obi-Wan’s room, plagued with nightmares. Just as before, Obi-Wan never turned him away. 

“Something’s troubling you.” 

Anakin sighed, taking a tentative step forward. “You know Master L/N?”

Obi-Wan smiled knowingly, having a sense of where this is going. “Yes, of course. A brilliant strategist, much like yourself.” 

“I…. I’m involved with them, Master.” 

“Involved?” Obi-Wan replied, with a quirked eyebrow.

“Please don’t punish Y/N for this, I know the Council frowns upon relationships. If you need to report it, I understand. But just report me, say they had nothing to do with it. But before you do anything please, Master, listen to what I must tell you. I wouldn’t unless it was absolutely necessary.” Anakin pleaded. 

“Anakin, I know.” 

“Yeah, I mean it truly is necessary-” 

Obi-Wan placed a comforting hand on the younger Jedi’s shoulder. “You misunderstand. I mean, I know.” 

Anakin’s eyes widened with realization before confusion filtered into his gaze. “But we were so careful!” 

“Not as much as you would think,” Obi-Wan said with a slight laugh.

“And you’re not upset?”

He sighed. “Being honest, I was a bit at first. Anakin, you know the rules and you can be so reckless at times! But how could I fault you for your own humanity? And I knew who you were when I met you. I was always aware of your compassion, your capacity for emotions.” Anakin nodded and smiled, but the faraway look in his eye never wavered. 

Clearing his voice, Obi-Wan continued. “Are you alright, Anakin?” 

“No.” The strength of the word shocked them both and caused Anakin to take a moment to compose himself. “They’re dying.”

Panic flashed through Obi-Wan’s expression. “They’re what? What happened? Was it a mission? Do the medics know? Is-” 

“- No, nothing… nothing yet. But it will.” While Obi-Wan didn’t exactly understand, he could tell through Anakin’s tone that his former Padawan believed this with his entire soul. 

“I’ve been having more nightmares.” Anakin said. 

“Like the ones with your mother?” 

Anakin nodded, his gaze muddled as his mind wove through every possibility on how to save you. Coming up with none, he looked up quickly, the lost confusion clear. 

“It’s going to be alright, Anakin. We’re going to do this together.” Obi-Wan offered, trying to comfort his friend. When Anakin nodded this time, his expression had more hope in it. Obi-Wan returned the gesture, tipping his head as Anakin walked out. Before Anakin reached the door, Obi-Wan called his name. 

“Talk to me if you feel troubled. About anything, my friend. And just know… it’s okay to feel afraid. And you’re no less a Jedi because you love them. At least, not in my eyes.��� For the first time since he’d walked in the room, Anakin gave a true smile. His former Master inhaled deeply, realizing after hearing those words, Anakin looked more like himself than he had in a long while. 

----- 

A few hours and a Council meeting later, Anakin walked back into your chambers, closing the door with a huff. He wasn’t enraged, per se, but definitely conflicted. You approached him cautiously, heart falling when you saw those familiar clouds back in his eyes. 

“Did Obi-Wan not take it well?”

Anakin shook his head. “It’s not… he was supportive. But the Council has assigned something to me and…” He trailed off and looked at you. Only then did you see his bloodshot, puffy eyes. 

“What did they ask of you, Anakin?” You questioned, coming behind him to gently massage his tense shoulders. 

“I’m needed to spy on the Chancellor. Apparently there’s a Sith Lord somewhere in the Order. They suspect him.” He tried to keep his voice strong, but you could see how torn apart he was by the inflection in his tone. 

You took a breath and tried to process the information. “Will you do it?”

“I don’t know… if the Council tells me I must, then I must. But the Chancellor has only been good to me. I worry about betraying him but I don’t want to let down the Order. I’m not sure how to do this without causing someone harm.” He confessed. 

“They shouldn’t have put you in this position, it’s unfair. And you don’t have to, Ani. I know it feels like you do but you don’t need to bend to each of the Council’s requests. Whatever the fallout, whatever you choose, please know that I’m with you. And so is Obi-Wan. Not that it fixes anything, but at the very least, you’ll always have us.” 

Anakin turned around so he was facing you. “I don’t know what to do.” He whispered, voice laced with hopelessness. 

“Trust yourself. You have a good heart, intelligence, and strong morals. They’ve never failed you before.”

He nodded before leaning into you and your arms instinctively wrapped around him. Your fingertips found their way to his hair, gently weaving through the golden strands. 

“We’ll get through this, yeah?” While it was a question, you both knew you meant it as a statement.

“We’ll get through this.” Anakin echoed. He mumbled the words into your neck where he had buried his face. As if the words could seep into your skin. As if the hope could find its way to your heart and stay there, ever protected, ever true. 

-----

The next day, Anakin found himself in Palpatine’s office. He was wary, guarded. It was evident by the look on his eyes, the way he took a moment before taking another step. It was his training as both a Jedi and a General that allowed him to do this. The careful complexity of planning every move. 

“I heard the Council debating whether or not they should have made you a Master. It seems they do not trust you or value your talent as they should.” Palpatine’s words made Anakin freeze. Rationally, he knew this was wrong. At the very least, Obi-Wan trusts him and so do you. But there was a part of him that felt so validated by the Chancellor’s words that he wanted to hear more. To bask in them, in feeling wanted and appreciated. He hated himself for it. 

“I… I’m not sure what you mean by this.” Anakin attempted not to give himself away any more than he already has. 

“Well, they care about your potential. But they hold you back. They’ll never show you your true power, for they don’t want you to understand. They just wish to use it, no matter your own fate.” 

“I feel cast aside. Like I don’t matter.” Anakin wasn’t even sure why he shared these words. Somehow, in feeling so praised, the doubts just bubbled their way to the surface. He felt like a child in these moments, so painfully fragile. 

“You don’t. Not to them, Anakin. But with me I can teach you your power. I can teach you the ways of the Dark Side. I know of your fears, of those nightmares that plague you. I know about your secret marriage and how close you are to losing it all.” 

Anakin froze, his heart hammering in his chest. His thoughts raced as he tried to piece together the truth from all the lies. The mentions of Darth Plagueis. The Dark Side of the Force. 

“You’re the Sith Lord!” Anakin said, igniting his lightsaber and pointing it at the older man’s chest. 

Palpatine bowed his head slightly, a small smile gracing his lips. “Well done, my boy.” Anakin felt sick as he noted the pride in his tone. And yet that aching part inside him still swelled, ever so slightly.

“Now, don’t do anything rash.” The Chancellor reasoned. “Only the Dark Side can save the one you love.” 

Anakin wanted to do the right thing. He wished to be the one who could stand up and arrest Palpatine without a single ounce of guilt or regret. But as soon as Palpatine mentioned you, it’s like all his logic disappeared. He just wanted to save you, to not fail you as he’d failed his mother. But then he thought back to your words. “Strong morals.” And to his Master’s. “We’ll do this together.”

“I’m turning you into the Council.” 

“Wouldn’t you prefer to kill me?”

“Yes.” Anakin’s remark was forceful and clipped with anger.

“Then do it. Give yourself over to your wrath.”

He felt himself burning with betrayal, with resentment toward both sides. Even so, he could still tell right from wrong, selfless from selfish. And whatever Palpatine was doing… it certainly did not have the will of the people in mind. Without so much as deigning him with another response, Anakin turned and walked out of the room.

“If you turn me in, you’ll never save them!” Anakin tried to will Palpatine’s voice out of his head as he ventured back to the Council chambers. When he arrived back, he decided to slightly alter his plans. While he knew he must face all of them eventually, he wanted to talk to Obi-Wan first. Perhaps his Master could give him guidance, like he did about your nightmares. 

“General Skywalker… are you alright?” Anakin stumbled as he walked right into another figure, too caught up in his own head.

“I’m fine, Master Windu. Thank you- I’m sorry.” Mace looked at the younger Jedi with an unreadable expression. While there was much in his eyes, concern was definitely a part of it. 

“Have you seen Master Kenobi?” Anakin said after a brief pause for composure. 

“He’s supposed to leave for his next mission any moment now. If you hurry, you can probably still catch him.” 

Anakin thanked Master Windu before taking off in a run. No matter how fast his legs carried him, he felt his mind was working even faster, the internal conflict brewing more intently by the second. 

-----

Obi-Wan opened the door as soon as before Anakin could even knock. He looked at Anakin and gestured at a vacant chair, a silent invitation to sit. Anakin shook his head quickly. The younger Jedi’s eyes were scattered and conflicted, as if he’d been shaken to his very core. 

“Palpatine is the Sith Lord.” The words came out rushed, yet clear. As if Anakin needed to get them out as quickly as he could but replayed them in his head until they were all he knew. The intensity showed Obi-Wan that there was no doubt in his friend’s mind. 

Obi-Wan blinked. “Okay.” He stroked his beard, trying to find the words to say. “Are you alright?”

Anakin looked at Obi-Wan in confusion. Certainly there were more important questions his former Master would want to ask than that. 

“I know you and the Chancellor were close. This can’t be easy for you. I just wanted to ask if you were alright.” 

“I’m not sure.” Anakin said after some hesitation. “I don’t really know what to think… Palpatine is evil, right? But he believed in me when no one else did. He saw my potential, allowed me to confide in him. He told me he could show me how to save Y/N. Would someone evil do that?” 

Obi-Wan’s eyes softened as he looked at the painfully conflicted young man in front of him. “Anakin… he was manipulating you. He was isolating you so you had no one to turn to but him. It was a tactic, a ploy. He doesn’t care for you.” Anakin looked so heartbroken that Obi-Wan knew Anakin believed him. “I’m so sorry.” 

“But what about Y/N?” Anakin asked desperately.

Obi-Wan sighed. “Loving someone in the Order isn’t easy. Especially after everything you’ve gone through. And losing someone… it changes the way you love. You fear constantly, wondering when your love will evade you. When it will fall apart, like all the rest. But living like that, loving like that… it leaves no room for growth or peace. And that’s what relationships are for, aren’t they?” His voice was filled with compassion and wisdom. From experience, perhaps? Regardless of the reason, Anakin was reminded that someone did understand him. Despite the circumstances, he felt content. At least a bit. 

“Is there any way to save them?”

“I’m not sure. Let’s focus on Palpatine for now, alright? And we’ll bring Master L/N with us so you know they’re safe.” Obi-Wan wished nothing more than having a set solution to save Y/N. But some things were even out of his grasp. “I know this must be impossible for you, Anakin. I truly am sorry.” 

Anakin nodded. After all, it was true. If there was anything to describe the impending threat of losing another person he loved, impossible summed up the process. “I know. You’re doing all you can. Thank you, Master. And yes, I would like to bring them with us.” 

Obi-Wan clasped a hand to Anakin’s shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze as they met each other with a smile. “I’ll send them a message right now.”

----

You gasped when you received Obi-Wan’s message with the details of the Supreme Chancellor’s truth. Your heart cried for Anakin, knowing the betrayal must be breaking him. All you could do was wish that with Obi-Wan’s help, the two of you could support Anakin until he felt like he could breathe again. And you had faith in him. You always had faith in him. 

Grabbing your cloak, you jogged to Obi-Wan’s quarters. As soon as you opened the door, you ran to Anakin and hugged him to you, needing to feel his presence. Somehow, you knew he needed it, too. 

“Ready?” Anakin and Obi-Wan gave you nods of confirmation and you gave a tentative smile. “Alright. Let’s do this.” 

-----

Anakin entered Palpatine’s chambers first. For once, he felt sure of himself. He finally knew what he had to do. His gaze shifted to you, making sure you were alright. You placed a hand on his arm, rubbing your thumb up and down to reassure him. He inhaled. Exhaled. And ignited his saber. 

“I knew you’d come back, Skywalker. I knew you’d join me.” 

“Think again.” Obi-Wan responded as you and him walked into the chambers. Pure, unfiltered rage flickered through Palpatine’s eyes in response.

“Anakin, they’re trying to corrupt you. They’re trying to keep your power. Come with me, boy, and I’ll teach you all you wish to know. I’ll teach you how to save them.” He said, pointing a pale finger toward your face. 

You let out a sharp breath as you suddenly understood Anakin’s conflict. Of course Palpatine was using you as a bargaining chip. Using Anakin’s fear of abandonment, of losing his loved ones against him. It was disgusting, even for a Sith. 

“I… you can’t possibly know how to do that. It’s impossible!” 

“Not on the Dark Side. Look… Obi-Wan has turned them against you. He’s the cause of this! I’m sure he didn’t even pose a solution to saving Y/N. It’s because he doesn’t care about you, not like I do.” 

The shadows returned to Anakin’s eyes as his gaze switched between Obi-Wan and Palpatine. He couldn’t even bring himself to look at you, to see the pain in your eyes as he struggled with a choice that for others would be so simple. He hated himself for being weak but he truly couldn’t fathom losing you. 

Obi-Wan stepped forward, backing Palpatine against the wall and pointing his lightsaber at Palpatine’s throat. Anakin stepped back, too frozen to move, and unconsciously placed himself between them and you.

“It’s over, Chancellor. Don’t make this more difficult than it already is.” Obi-Wan said.

Palpatine shot lightning from his hands, causing Obi-Wan to deflect the matter with his lightsaber, redirecting it to Palpatine himself. As Palpatine shook from the force of his own blast, he once again called to Anakin.

“If you let him kill me, dear boy, Y/N will die. If you don’t try to save them, you will be the cause of their death.” 

Anakin’s eyes widened, those words hitting him right in the chest. He moved forward, pointing his lightsaber at Obi-Wan but refusing to make the final cut to end his life. Obi-Wan looked like he wanted to speak but the effort of holding of Palpatine’s lightning rendered him useless. It was Obi-Wan, after all. His former Master, his friend. The one person who he trusted with the secret of his marriage. He couldn’t kill him, right? He faltered, stepping slightly back. 

“Ani,” You said, your voice calm as you tried to reason with him. “Ani if you do this, you can’t come back from it. I know you don’t want to lose me and if you kill Obi-Wan, you will, regardless of the fate of my life. You aren’t too far gone, yet. You haven’t done anything irredeemable. Remember who you are, my love.” 

Anakin heard your words and looked at your face. You. He wanted to do good by you, to do good by all of them. He wanted to make his mother proud, make himself feel like leaving her for the Jedi Order meant something. And then his gaze filtered over to his friend. Obi-Wan stood tall against the force of Palpatine’s lightning, reminding Anakin of his friend’s strength. It was something Anakin wanted to emulate, too. 

Understanding his choice, Anakin took a step forward to position the blade toward Palpatine’s chest. His hand was shaking, movements unsure, eyes glossed over with immeasurable pain. But before he could make contact, you swiftly moved in front of him and killed Palpatine instead. Obi-Wan was thrust backward as the lightning ceased, chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. 

“Why would you do that?” Anakin asked as he looked at you. 

“I didn’t want you to have to kill your friend. No matter what he turned out to be.” You said as you shifted on the balls of your feet. The weight of Palpatine’s death now weighed on your soul, as do those of every life you’ve ever ended. You could bear it and you knew Anakin was strong enough to do so, as well. You just didn’t want him to have to. 

Anakin nodded and whispered a thank you back to you. You just smiled, the love for him clear in your expression. Anakin turned around, walking to his friend and extending a hand for him. 

“I never doubted you.” Obi-Wan said simply as he met Anakin’s guilty eyes. 

“I should have made the choice to believe you earlier. I shouldn’t have let him get to me. I’m sorry, Master.” 

“Look at me, Anakin. We all struggle with our morals. We struggle and we’re unsure and we pray and hope to land on the right decision. And you did. You have nothing to apologize for.” Looking at your and Anakin’s arms around each other, Obi-Wan made one last decision. “How about the two of you retire for the evening? I’ll debrief with the Council, you’ve been through enough.” 

Once again, Anakin was struck by the older Jedi’s strength and selflessness. He nodded, as did you, before he accompanied you back to your quarters. 

----

You kept one arm around Anakin’s waist the entire way home, mirroring his that was around your shoulders. You couldn’t bear to separate, not after the events of the past few days. Seeing Anakin so torn up inside, it was eating away at you. Knowing you couldn’t save him was one of the hardest things you’ve ever had to deal with. 

Now, Palpatine was finally gone. There was no more threat to the Jedi Order, the Force once again balanced. But both of you still understood the one solution that hadn't been found: how to save you. It made everything easier, that you chose to kill the Chancellor. Anakin refused to voice the doubts in his head, wondering if he actually would have gone through with it knowing he would lose his chance at saving you. 

The air was melancholic surrounding you both. Heavy. Neither of you knew what to say, words failing in a moment that was so conflicted it almost overwhelmed you. But your heart warmed as you saw Anakin scamper in front of you to open and hold the door for you. You loved him so much, for doing the little things even in moments like these. It gave you hope.

You were okay with death, so long as it only affected you. When you joined the Jedi, you had to make your peace with it. But after you fell in love everything changed. You didn’t want Anakin to go through the pain of losing you. He’d been so open with you about, well, everything. Especially his past. He’d gone through so much, felt such raw pain and loss, you didn’t want to add to that. 

Taking his hands in yours, you looked into his blue eyes. 

“I don’t want you to die.” He whispered, the desperate, deflated tone making your heart break. “I won’t.” You wished to say, but you knew you couldn’t. 

“I don’t want to die, either.” You chose these words instead, relying on their honesty. 

“Palpatine could have saved you.” Anakin said after a beat. 

You sighed. “You don’t know that.” You stated, knowing it wouldn’t change how he felt. 

“Neither do you!” 

“But at what cost? At the cost of losing your soul? Anakin, you would have had to join the Sith! That’s no longer you! You’re good and you couldn’t have saved me if you were there, don’t you see that?” You pleaded. You wished he would see your logic, the truth behind your words. How even though he thought otherwise, he made the right decision. 

“What good is saving the Order if you won’t be a part of it?”

“What good is saving my life if I wouldn’t have you to live it with?” You countered. 

Anakin let out an exhausted breath before pulling you into him, hugging you. The fighting was too much and, frankly, he didn’t want to argue. Not with you, not ever. You both let out a humorless chuckle as you leaned into each other. 

“I love you.” His tone conveyed it all. 

“I love you.” You replied, your voice muffled from being pressed into his robes. 

“Can we sleep? I don’t want to face this right now. Can we just put this aside, if just for a moment? Can I lay with you and can you hold me and can we just have each other?” You questioned breathlessly.

“I would like nothing more, my love.” He smiled slightly and pressed a kiss to your head as he added the words of endearment, wanting you to understand he wasn’t upset with you. You already knew that, though. You were in love with Anakin Skywalker. Of course you’d argue from time to time. But at the end of the day, you were two hopelessly in love Jedi just trying to save each other. 

Crawling into bed, sleep came for the both of you quickly. You were holding him and he was holding you, tangled together as you nestled his warm embrace. He tucked his face into your neck as you did so and savored the feel of you next to him. Safe. 

Drifting off, Anakin tried to fight the pull of sleep, knowing he’d just suffer from another nightmare like he had every day since the first one. One where you’d die and he could do nothing to stop it. Amidst these tumultuous thoughts, his breathing evened, lulling him under. 

You were in the grass, a flower crown atop your head. Anakin was leaning against a small house. It was quaint but beautiful. Small, not outwardly flashy, but full of love and meaning. Looking around, he smiled as he saw green vines crawling up the sides of the house, a garden of your favorite flowers out front. You always had a soft spot for that. 

We are on Naboo, he realized. It was peaceful. It was the dream you always talked of together. Anakin’s breath caught as he felt the certainty of this dream. It felt just like his nightmares, except this one left him content. He didn’t want to entertain the thought for too long, afraid of jinxing it. But he knew it was prophetic. He wasn’t sure how he changed his fate, what exactly gave him this future. Something inside him just knew that when he wakes up the next morning, all will be okay. He felt infinitely lighter as he understood the threat was gone. 

When you looked up and saw him, you raced toward him and jumped into his arms. Anakin stumbled but caught you, breathing in your scent as you kissed the side of his neck. As he held you, his thoughts slightly wandered. But he was grounded by your presence, reminding him that you were safe and he was okay. With you, he was finally, completely, home.

-----

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[luci-in-trenchcoats]

If I Fell For You (Part 3) - A Moment

Summary: Jensen is away from home for a few days but isn’t having the easiest time being away from the kids for the first time since the accident. When he returns home, he has a gala to attend on Saturday night but a kiss on the cheek and slip of the tongue will snowball into the reader and Jensen sharing a moment...

Masterlist

Pairing: Jensen x nanny!reader

Word Count: 6,100ish

Warnings: language, death of a spouse, death of a parent, anxiety, self-worth problems, referenced past harassment

A/N: I love this part so much for so many reasons. Please enjoy!

________

“Hi Jensen,” you asked Monday night when your phone rang. “How was your flight earlier?”

“Same old same old. I just got out of work,” he said with a yawn. “Gonna grab a bite out with a friend. Kids eat dinner okay?”

“We had honey sriracha glazed salmon with brussel sprouts and roasted red potatoes.”

“Really?”

“They had kraft mac and cheese and I had Taco Bell.”

“See this is why I like you,” he chuckled.

“I’ll try the salmon again tomorrow. I was gonna make it but they didn’t have any at the store,” you said, opening the fridge and taking out a pint of ice cream. “Hey can I have what’s left of this mint ice cream?”

“Sure. Pick some more up for me sometime before friday please,” he said. “Also, Taco Bell? You do realize we live in freaking Austin right. There are literally hundreds of places you can go that have better mexican food.”

“Yeah but fake cheese tastes good,” you said. He laughed and your stomach rumbled. “I so should have gotten more than two tacos.”

“You in the kitchen?” he asked. You hummed and you heard him let out an oof in the background.

“Yeah. You alright?”

“This bed in my hotel room is comfy,” he said. “But I was starting to say, go in the drawer at the end of the counter by the table. There’s only five hundred gajillion take out menus in there. Order a treat for yourself. It’s on me.”

“Jensen. I can get my own dinner.”

“True but you’re on call 24/7 until I get back.”

“Well in that case I bet you got a menu for a fancy steakhouse in here somewhere,” you teased as you picked up one for a tex mex looking restaurant. “Does this place really have quesadillas this big?”

“You must be looking at the menu on top. I almost ordered from there last week actually. The food’s great. They do delivery too. Just buzz the guy into the gate when they get there.”

“Any recommendations?” you asked, taking out the menu and flipping it over.

“Quesadillas are good. Loaded nachos are amazing. I’ve literally never had a bad thing from there,” he said. “To be honest I’d rather be getting that than where I’m going tonight.”

“Why’s that?” you asked, reading through your options, surprised to find such good prices.

“I have to wear a suit,” he said with a sigh. “After being poked and prodded all day I literally would rather just eat crap and watch food network.”

“How long have you known this friend of yours?” you asked.

“Twenty years, why?”

“Then you guys knew each other when you were young. It’s not too late out there. Call him, see if he’d rather get some crap food, a six pack and just catch up on his couch or in your room. I’m pretty sure he’s more looking forward to seeing an old friend again than the food,” you said.

“You make very good points. I should pay you more,” he said.

“You pay me plenty and barely let me spend a dime of my money on myself,” you said. “I don’t need more.”

“You got that fancy computer though.”

“You literally have the exact same mac in your office.”

“You moved in like three boxes and two computers,” he said.

“An ipad is not a computer,” you said.

“Debatable.”

“Well I like to draw sometimes and it’s easier on an ipad when you’re laying in bed,” you said. 

“Are you any good?” he asked.

“No.”

“I bet they’re really good,” he said as you rolled your eyes. “I see you draw with the kids sometimes and those are good.”

“It’s a hobby is all,” you said, leaning back against the counter, your stomach grumbling again. “Anything else you want me to grab at the store? I’m going to hit it tomorrow while everyone’s at school.”

“Nah. Get the usual stuff,” he said. “The kiddos in bed?”

“Yeah, got the last one down about fifteen minutes ago,” you said. He hummed and you heard the sigh in it. “I got a video of them playing earlier I’ll send you.”

“Thanks. It’s my first night away from them in a long time. Normally I’m able to come back same day. I was kinda hoping they’d still be awake to say goodnight.”

“They’re safe and sound dad. We’ll call again after school tomorrow to talk like today,” you said.

“Yeah,” he breathed out. He was quiet and you pulled the phone away, taking a deep breath. 

“You okay?” 

“I haven’t been alone like this in a really long time.”

“I know. You check out your backpack yet?”

“No. Why?”

“You didn’t bring a jacket with you so I put that yellow hoodie that’s always on the hook in there in case you got cold.”

“That was Dee’s hoodie.”

“I was pretty sure it was,” you said. You heard him shuffle around briefly before he hummed, much happier that time. “I thought you might like to have a piece of...something-”

“I really don’t pay you enough,” he said quietly. “Thanks for putting this in there. I need something from home more than I realized.”

“Well put it on, call up your buddy and have some fun tonight, Ackles. Nanny’s orders.” He laughed and you felt that twinge in your stomach again, your eyes quickly closing.

“I will. Hey you mind if I call again tomorrow night? I don’t have any plans and sitting in a hotel room by myself isn’t very fun.” You smiled and felt heat in your cheeks, quickly thinking it away. He wanted company for a few minutes was all and you were friends. It was completely normal to talk with friends on the phone everyday.

“Of course. As long as you get a dinner in at some point that’s more than fine with me,” you said. “We can talk about The Bachelor!”

“Oh God no,” he groaned, chuckling after a few seconds. “I’ll settle for Grey’s Anatomy.”

“This Is Us?” you asked.

“Supernatural?”

“I haven’t watched that yet. I’m working up to it,” you said. 

“Work faster woman. I only know legit everything about that one,” he chuckled. “But probably not a good idea to watch that one until I get back and you're not alone. First episode is kinda scary.”

“Oh well thanks for that,” you said, watching the clock tick by, knowing it had to be almost seven out there. “I’ll let you go. Have fun tonight Jensen.”

“I will Y/N. Promise.”

Friday Night

“Arrow,” you said after she’d flung her pasta bowl all over herself, covering her hair and face. She sniffled and you forced a smile. “Okay. How about a bath after dinner?”

Fifteen minutes later JJ and Zeppelin were in the movie room watching a cartoon while you had Arrow in the kids bathroom, scooping up some water over her head in the tub.

“Well hello ladies,” you heard behind you. You jumped and spun around, glaring for a moment before you recognized Jensen.

“Just me,” he said, backpack still on his shoulders. 

“Daddy I got ziti all over my head,” she said.

“You did?” he asked, dropping his bag and taking off his jacket, kneeling down next to you. You got the last bit of sauce off and squirted some shampoo in her hair, Jensen watching you with a smile. “How was your day?”

She told him all about breakfast and daycare, playing with a few toy boats with him while you rinsed out the soap. You did a bit of conditioner before getting it out as well and putting the spray nozzle back.

“I got the rest if you wanna get the dryer ready?” he asked you, reaching for the soap. You swapped spots with him, Jensen washing her up while she kept talking about her day. By the time he was all done you had the dryer out and plugged in, Jensen picking her up and wrapping her up in a big bundle of towels before he set her on the counter. You went to work drying her hair, Jensen draining the tub and finding some pajamas for her.

“Do you want your hair up or down, sweetie?” you asked. She tried gathering it up and you grabbed her soft scrunchie perfectly fine for sleeping in from the counter. You put her hair up in a soft little bun, Jensen making an adorable sound when he returned.

“Aw, you look so cute, baby. I’ll be right there alright?” he said. She hopped off the counter and got dressed, rushing off downstairs when she was all done. “Survive the day?”

“Somehow we always do,” you said, gathering up the towels. “Kids are in the movie room.”

“Thanks. I’m gonna shower but we’re all good for the night,” he said. “Thanks for watching them this week.”

“You gotta go do your job,” you said. “You working on a movie or something? You never said.”

“Uh gonna be in a show called The Boys,” he said. “I’m gonna be one of the superheroes so I gotta go out and get my suit made all special for me every so often.”

“You’re gonna be a supe! That’s so fucking cool!” you said. He grinned and you blushed, shaking your head. “I’m so sorry. That was so not appropriate.”

“I don’t see any little ears around,” he chuckled. “You like the show then?”

“Yeah. It’s great. Like no other show consistently makes me go what the fuck did I just see. That’s so cool you get to be a supe though. Are you a one off or like a main character?”

“I’ll be very present in the next season. Gonna deal with the seven, all that,” he said. “I’m gonna be Solider Boy.”

“I can see that. You have that all American boy thing about you.”

“It’s my adorable face,” he teased. 

“Well remember to not stay up too late. You have the gala tomorrow night remember?”

“Yes mom,” he said as you walked out. “Get the kids some takeout for dinner tomorrow and yourself.”

“Sounds good boss,” you said. “Night Jensen.”

“Goodnight, Y/N.”

The Next Night

You froze from where you were mixing up some brownie batter with JJ at the kitchen counter as Jensen popped downstairs. He was in a gorgeous black suit, a maroon pocket square and no tie going on, his hair scruffier looking than normal.

He started to laugh and you realized you were staring, your cheeks feeling hot as you went back to stirring.

“Mmm, you guys save me a brownie or two for when I get home?” he asked, leaning over and dipping his finger in the bowl of cream cheese frosting.

“We’ll spare one for dad,” you said, Jensen going back for seconds. “Ah, ah. No.”

He dipped his finger in and got another fingerful, kissing the top of JJ’s head and the twins at the counter.

“Be good for Y/N guys!” he called as he rushed out.

You whistled and he jogged back, catching you holding up his phone from the counter.

“Thank you,” he said, taking it and pecking a kiss on your cheek. You looked up at him and he froze. “I am so sorry. I…”

“It’s okay. Go have fun and be all charitable,” you said. He shoved his phone in his pocket and ran out, JJ scratching her head.

“Dad’s kinda weird sometimes,” she said.

“Yeah, he is. But so is everybody,” you said. “Let’s get this in the oven so you guys can pick out colors for your frosting, hm?”

“I really shouldn’t. But I really should,” you said to yourself, plopping your second brownie of the night in a bowl and sticking a scoop of ice cream on top. You carried it over to the couch and lay back, watching TV on the big screen as you heard the door open. Jensen came into view a minute later, taking his jacket off and groaning as he washed up at the sink. He went to the tray of brownies on the counter and picked one up with a big sigh. “Fun night?”

He jumped and whacked his head against the cabinet above, hissing before he spun around.

“You okay?” you asked. He nodded and left the brownie behind, pushing his sleeves up before taking a seat on the other end of the lounger.

“Y/N I’m really sorry about the kiss on the cheek. That was so inappropriate. You’ve kinda implied that there was some stuff that’s happened to you at other jobs you found over the line and I’m really truly sorry if I made you uncomfortable. I wasn’t...I forgot you’re my employee for a moment. I really am sorry.”

“Jensen if I had a problem with it or you or your behavior I would quit on the spot. I don’t let myself get pushed around anymore. You were happy and busy and you pecked a kiss on my cheek, not reach a hand down my pants. It’s really okay. You’re way too hard on yourself.”

“Are you sure?” he asked.

“Positive. It’s barely ten which means you left as soon as you could. You’re supposed to be out having fun,” you said.

“I was kinda freaking out that you hated me,” he said.

“Dude you gotta relax,” you said. “Have a brownie and some ice cream.”

He got up and after a minute took a seat at the other end with a bowl of his own, smiling as he got a taste.

“This is fucking awesome,” he said.

“I know,” you said, Jensen smirking. “Do you feel better now silly boy? I promise that if you ever do anything I find inappropriate I will promptly kick you in the balls.”

“I can agree to that,” he said. He ate for a moment, watching the TV and laying back. “Do you ever like, want to go do things with your friends on a Saturday night? If you do that’s totally cool. These aren’t normal hours anyways.”

“Being a nanny eats up a lot of your social life,” you said. “Kinda got kicked out of my friend group after I broke up with my ex anyways.”

“Well they sound like they suck,” he said.

“Yes, they do,” you said. “I don’t mind so much. I meet plenty of new people through work. Only person you can depend on is yourself and I don’t tend to let myself down.”

“That’s a very lonely way to go through life,” he said.

“It’s not easy to make friends in your thirties,” you said. “Maybe for someone like you who travels and meets new people a lot and stuff but you have like, real friendships. You know?”

“Well we have a real friendship, don’t we? You’re friends with Jared and Rob and Ruthie and Rich,” he said. “I don’t trust just anybody with my kids. That’s real.”

“Yeah,” you said, taking a bite. “So when’s your friend free?”

“Hm?”

“Blind date guy. Maybe he could be a friend if things work out,” you said.

“Oh yeah. He uh, he actually got a gig up in Canada so you might need to wait like a month or so. But he’s excited to meet you,” said Jensen.

“Can I have his number?” you asked. “Or do you think that’d be weird?”

“No, not weird. I think he just kinda wants to do it old school if that’s okay. Meet you first and go from there.”

“This friend of yours better be like super hot,” you said.

“If it’s a problem-“

“I can respect him wanting to do things like that. But I’m gonna want a firm date soon,” you said.

“I’ll make sure to get you one,” he said. “I’ll get it down tomorrow, promise.”

“He better not mind me eating like this either. I ain’t a salad on the first date kinda girl. He’s gonna need to keep up with my eating while were at it,” you said. He snorted in his seat beside you and ran his hand over his face.

“I will keep that in mind. I have occasionally had dessert first truth be told,” he said.

“This is why I like you Ackles. You get my sweet tooth,” you laughed.

“It’s a good thing your dinners are healthy cause I swear I haven’t consumed this many baked goods in months,” he said. “The kids love it and my stomach loves it though.”

“I’m gonna need to start working out though if I keep this up. Oh hey is it okay if I do laps in the pool in the mornings? I’ll be super quiet and stuff.”

“You don’t gotta ask,” he smiled. “Like I said when you started, you got free reign to use the pool, the gym, whatever, aside from my room. You a swimmer?”

“Not really but I hate running and supposedly it’s a good workout or something,” you shrugged, eating another bite of brownie.

“Anything in the gym you’re free to use. I know you must get a little bored sometimes when I’m gone and the kids are,” he said.

“Not bored per say. Ordinarily I would do more chores but you have like a cleaner and a landscaper and you just...give me more time in the day than I’m used to is all. It’s actually great though. It gives me plenty of time to come up with ideas for the kids and stuff.”

“Well as long as you’re taking breaks and your lunch do as you please,” he said, his spoon scraping the bottom of his bowl.

“Now that’s just sad.”

“I really should get another one of these,” he said, sucking the spoon.

“It’s really the only choice you have,” you said. He laughed as he hopped up, skirting back into the kitchen and fixing up another brownie and ice cream combo.

“Hey you want more, Dee?” he asked. You popped your head up and he spun around. “I’m-“

“Don't apologize, Jensen,” you said. He tapped his fingers against the counter and took a deep breath, putting his back to you.

“That’s the second time tonight I’ve done that,” he said. 

“Jensen. There’s nothing wrong with missing your wife.”

“I’m still sorry.”

“You don’t...talk about her much.”

“It was...she wasn’t…” he trailed off. He sat down on a barstool and you got up, walking over and hopping up on the counter beside him. You set your feet in the stool next to his and paused before you put a hand on top of his head and ran your fingers through the short strands. “This shouldn’t have happened to her.”

“Death is the price for living. Pain’s the price for caring. Doesn’t mean it’s not worth it,” you said. You started to move your hand away when he turned his head. 

“Don’t…” he said, easing when you played with it gently again. “That’s always calmed me down since I was a little kid.”

“Someone should take care of you every once in a while you know. Your parents, siblings, friends. Everyone needs a break.”

“I had a lot of help at the beginning. I don’t need a whole day. Just a moment here and there,” he said quietly.

“It’ll be okay, Jensen,” you said. He nodded and you played with his hair a few moments, watching his shoulders ease. This time when you pulled away he smiled up at you. “Better?”

“Yeah. Thank you. That’s not in your job description to do that sort of thing.”

“Well I think your wife would want somebody to watch your back, even for only a minute or two,” you said.

“You don’t have any brain aneurysms I should know about, do you?” he chuckled. 

“No. That what happened?” you asked, a single nod coming from him.

“She was sleeping. Not a bad way to go I was told, you’d never even know,” he said. “Not a fun thing to wake up to in the morning though.”

“My dad had a mass at the back of his head. It was that same kind of thing where one second it’s fine and the next everything’s different deal. It was inoperable. Then he goes and dies from a car accident of all things before it got bad. My mom had a hard time with that.”

“You said she had a boyfriend later on right?” he asked.

“Yeah. I know you’ll be okay, Jensen,” you said. You ruffled his hair and he smiled, a soft look on his face. “Pro tip too from someone who’s been there, kids with a single parent turn out just fine.”

“Do they ever wish they had another parent?” he asked.

“They wish the parent they still have around is happy again someday. They won’t understand until they’re older that it’s a different kind of love between parents. But they’ll know it’s a little different and they’ll hope dad feels better too. Your kids are tough. They’ll be okay too.”

“Thanks, Y/N,” he said. You hopped off the counter and washed up your dish, sticking it in the dishwasher before you went to leave for your room. “So I gotta ask. Who takes care of you?”

“Me?” you asked, pointing to yourself. He shrugged and smiled, your gaze going past him. “I’m all good. I don’t need somebody to take care of me.”

“Liar,” he said softly. “You know my friend tells me everybody needs to be taken care of sometimes.”

“That’s the difference between us Jensen. You’re not like me.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” he scoffed, his face scrunching up suddenly.

“It means you’re not on your own and even if you feel like it, it’s only been a little while. You’ll be okay. I’ve been taking care of myself since I was a kid. I don’t need anyone to take care of me.”

“That’s bullshit and you know it.”

“You haven’t lived my life and I haven’t lived yours. Don’t try to tell me that I’m not capable of-”

“It’s not about what you’re capable of. You said pain is part of life, it’s the price for living. You’ve had more than your fair share-”

“Lots of people have it a lot worse.”

“Don’t compare your pain to someone else's. They haven’t lived your life,” he said. You rolled your eyes and started to walk away, Jensen out of his seat and catching up with you in the hall. “You can be taken care of too you know.”

“By who? My non-existent circle of friends? My crappy ex? My mom’s ex boyfriend who’s got his own wife and kids? I am perfectly fine managing all of this by myself. I’ve been doing it for years.”

“You’re so frustratingly annoying,” he said, running his hand over his face. “Me. I’m talking about me. You just...you took care of me tonight. The least I can do is show you the same compassion.”

“No,” you said.

“No? Why not?”

“Because taking care of me turns into you walking into my shower without my permission and you being a dick and this going away and I don’t want you to be those things so no. We’re getting too friendly. Please leave me alone tomorrow.”

You left him in the hall and went down to your area of the house, shutting the door after you. There was quickly a knock and you growled, ripping it open.

“What?” you snapped at him.

“I am not going to hurt you or be a dick to you or whatever else you think. You need to realize in the real world, not everyone is an asshole.”

“You’re the one not living in the real world then, Jensen. Everybody’s an asshole.”

“Fine. I’m an asshole. But I’m not leaving until you say I can take care of you tomorrow. Two minutes is all I’m asking for.”

“This is my part of the house.”

“And technically I am outside your door,” he said. “Why are you so resistant to somebody doing something nice for you?”

“Because I don’t wanna get used to it,” you said. He stared and you shook your head. “You’re attractive and an actor and kind and funny and it’s not a matter of if you date again but when and when that day comes, we ain’t gonna be sitting on the couch eating ice cream anymore. Please do not invite me to anymore outings as a friend. I’ll attend if required as a nanny but this between us is done.”

“For the record, the only one around here that thinks of you as just the hired help is you. My children are completely like their old selves. I feel more like my old self. You seem happier than when I met you but for some reason, that’s a big problem to you. I do not understand that.”

“Leave or I resign and move out first thing,” you said. He crossed his arms and lifted his chin. “This is my formal resignation then. The company will-”

He moved quickly and you weren’t sure what he was doing at first but soon you realized he was hugging you, your hands resting against his chest. You swallowed and he didn’t move, your forehead resting against him.

“What are you doing?” you breathed out.

“When’s the last time you got a fucking hug?” he asked.

“The kids-”

“Not the kids.”

“I don’t remember,” you said quietly. 

“Then you are overdue,” he said. You let yourself reach your arms around him and return the hug, breathing deeply, a small bubble in you rising up. You tried to push it down but it came back harder and you were fighting back tears before you knew it. 

He could feel when you lost that battle, hand rubbing up and down your back. There was a soft shushing in the air and after a few minutes you felt better. You lifted your head but didn’t look at him, Jensen squeezing you in his hug again before it eased.

“You know you’re not allowed to quit on me...like ever,” he chuckled. You let out a small laugh, Jensen smiling at you when you forced your head up. He wiped off your cheeks and you let out one last sniffle. “You’re not alone. I promise you’re not. It’s not the quantity of people you have in your life but the quality and I’m sorry but we are friends and there’s nothing you can do about that so I’d just accept it now.”

“I’m sorry I was such a bitch.”

“You were scared, not a bitch,” he said. “I wish I could make you happier is all.”

“I wish I could bring back your wife for you,” you said.

“One of those is a lot more possible than the other,” he said. A small smile crossed his lips before he ducked his head down, shoulders heaving back before his head raised. “Y/N, can I confess something to you? I hope...I hope it doesn’t bother you but if it does, you don’t have to continue working for me. I’d still like to be friends regardless.”

“What’s wrong?” you asked, Jensen looking past you.

“My single friend I was going to set you up with? He doesn’t exist.”

“Oh.”

“Cause he’s kinda me.”

“Oh,” you said, staring at him, a lot of his previous behavior starting to click into place. “That’s…”

“I know,” he said, stepping away and rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s weird and douchey and I’m sorry. I like you and I was trying to see if you would ever go for a 42 year old actor. I left out the widow and kids part but...I’m sorry.”

“When did you like me?” you asked quietly.

“The whole time?” he said, laughing nervously to himself. “It’s kinda snowballed since we met. I never in my life thought I’d like someone again. I didn’t want to like you. I hired you because you were the best candidate and I knew the kids would be in good hands but everyday it’s there, even more, and I know this is so inappropriate on so many levels and I’m really starting to ramble here but you make me think maybe your mom had a point and people are allowed to have...more than one…and sometimes the way you talk to me and treat me and look at me...” 

He swallowed as you stepped in front of him, taking a quick breath. 

“I will keep working for you and I’ll be your friend...and you can make me dinner tomorrow,” you said with a smile. “We’ll see where it goes from there?”

“You’re not...weirded out?” he asked.

“By your age, you’re my boss or the cheeky lying about a fake friend?” you said.

“All of the above.”

“Age doesn’t bother me. You have no idea how to be a boss, no offense, and the friend...I don’t blame you for wanting to test the waters first,” you said. “But I expect honesty from here on out.”

“Absolutely,” he said.

“Good,” you said.

“You do like me right?” he asked. “Like you don’t feel obligated or-”

“I like you Jensen. Why do you think I was trying to push you away before you got too close? I didn’t want to be hurt.”

“Give me a chance to not,” he said. “We can have dinner and see how it goes from there.”

“Normally the best course of action,” you said.

“But maybe with a few more hugs from now on,” he said. “For the both of us.”

“That’d be okay with me,” you said. He smiled and you returned it. “I guess I’ll see you in the morning then.”

“I guess you will,” he said. He turned to go when he spun back on his heels. “Or we could go back out there, eat way too much dessert and hang out?”

“Yeah,” you said with a smile. “Give me a minute to wash up my face.”

“Take all the time you want. I’m gonna change into something more comfortable anyways.”

He left and you washed off your face in the bathroom, drying it off and taking a deep breath.

You did like him. There was something calming about him to you and you enjoyed his company, even if it was just the two of you having a quiet cup of coffee in the morning.

But he was an actor. And kinda famous. And a widow. And had three kids. 

“But your face is cute,” you said aloud, looking the mirror. “Gah, of course you have to be like...into me. Nutjob. He must be a nutjob. That’s it.”

“Y/N?” you heard him saying and you smacked yourself in the face. “Are you talking to yourself?”

“Uh, yeah,” you said, stepping out and seeing him in the hall sporting a pair of pajama pants and a t shirt. “That was fast.”

“Well I didn’t go through an eight step skin routine too,” he chuckled.

“For your information, my routine is only three steps,” you said, walking past him and waggling your fingers.

“I didn’t realize I was living with such a savage,” he said. You laughed and went back to the kitchen, making up another dish of brownie for him while he went over to where he kept his liquor. “You a bourbon kind of girl?”

“Is there any other kind?” you said.

“Touche.” He poured out two glasses and slid one over while you passed his bowl to him. “So what’s this three step routine? Do I need to up my game or what?”

“I think I need your routine, not the other way around,” you said.

“Nah. I like looking at your face more than mine. Trust me.”

“Oh. How long you been holding back those kinds of comments?” you teased.

“Longer than you’d think,” he said, sharing the bowl with you. “Feel okay now?”

“Yeah. I can’t remember the last time I cried,” you said. “Especially in front of someone.”

“A good cry session has never hurt in my experience. I’ll do it for work and stuff but normally I’m not much of one. Aside from the past six months I mean.”

“Are you ready to try this?” you asked.

“Yeah. I know I am,” he said. “I’m positive of it.”

“How can you know that?”

“Because you make me happy. You make me...want to do stuff again, believe in all the romantic...if I wasn’t ready, I’d feel guilty. But I don’t. I just know that maybe some people get more than one chance and maybe I’m one of them.”

“I know you are, whoever it ends up being,” you said.

“Are you ready to try this?”

You took a drink and bite of ice cream, pushing the bowl back.

“I miss my family,” you said. “I miss being happy. I’d like to...have someone that could take care of me for a moment every once in a while. I might mess that up sometimes but I’m willing to try.”

“Me too,” he said. “I’d expect some screw ups on this end too. I’ve been out of the dating game for a long time.”

“I’m sure it hasn’t changed all that much,” you said.

“Well I’ve never dated with kids and as a widow,” he said.

“I’m just in this for them to be honest,” you laughed. 

“I see how it is,” he said with a smirk. 

“I don’t think it’ll be as hard as you think,” you said.

“I hope not,” he said. 

“Do they know? You want to date?”

“JJ does,” he said. “She’s little but she understands that it doesn’t mean I’ll never love her mother any less. She’s been strangely okay through this whole thing aside from the first few weeks. She helps her brother and sister out more now.”

“As someone who was that kid, minus the siblings, I know they’ll be okay. She’s a great kid. I’ve met plenty of spoiled brats. Yours are not.”

“Well that might just be the second best thing I’ve heard tonight,” he said.

“Whatever was the first?” you teased, eating a spoon of ice cream.

“Oh I think you know,” he said, stealing the spoon back. You smiled and heard some feet run around upstairs before the stairs creeped and a little head ducked down into view. “Arrow. It’s bedtime sweetie.”

“I had a accident,” she said. “Sorry.”

“Nothing to be sorry for, honey,” he said. “I’ll be right back.”

“Want help?” you asked.

“Sure,” he said. He scooped up Arrow on the way up the stairs, setting her down in the kids bathroom. He got some clean pajamas and you found a pair of pull ups, Arrow pouting at you. 

“I don’t need ‘em,” she said.

“Your brother wears them. I wore them and your mommy and daddy wore them. Everybody wears pull ups when they’re your age,” you said.

“Just tonight,” she said, stepping into them. Jensen walked past with the mattress liner and she was dressed by the time you heard the washer going off in the distance. You walked her back to bed, Jensen slipping in past you and tucking her in. “Night daddy.”

“Night sweetie,” he said, kissing her temple. 

“Night Y/N,” she said.

“Night night kiddo,” you said, giving her a tiny wave before you left, Jensen flipping off her light and pulling the door shut. 

“Come here a second,” he said, nodding and you saw him head towards his room. The double doors were open and you stepped inside, Jensen going past the bed and over to a set of french doors. He pushed one open and waved for you to follow, showing you out to a rooftop balcony.

“Wow,” you said, a set of chairs, a table and a lounger out there along with a whole lot soft string lights. “I didn’t realize you had this up here.”

“Kinda a place to go unwind, relax,” he said. “I disappear out here sometimes. Been out here a lot at night lately.”

“Thinking about what?” you asked.

“You,” he said. “I talk to Dee about you sometimes as crazy as that sounds.”

“Doesn’t sound crazy at all,” you said.

“I just wanted to say...this area isn’t off limits anymore. Nothing is,” he said. 

“She asked you out, didn’t she,” you said with a smile. He rubbed the back of his neck and blushed. “You’re cute.”

You leaned up and kissed his cheek, heading back towards inside.

“Come on, Jensen. Before the ice cream melts on us.”

_______

A/N: Read Part 4 here!