#I spent so long on all the little details here… tired but proud of how it turned out

[1d1195]

Physics Extra I

Read the rest here: Physics

Some great inspo from my 🌼-anon.

Hope you like it 💕

A little angsty, a little fluffy. Full disclosure--I'm not sure if I was tired or if I'm stupid, but I couldn't remember what year of college they were in and which Physics level they were in so I'm going to clarify here and I'll fix it later on. It shouldn't be too much of an issue. I left it a bit ambiguous if I remember correctly.

~2.5k words

Part of her worried this would happen. The flare of the savior complex paired with her insecurity finally won out. Time spent apart over break helped their budding relationship. It led to an unbelievably passionate reunion after the new year and return for the spring semester. The kisses from Harry’s lips on her mouth and trailing down her body made her warm just thinking about it and it was nearly a month—almost two—ago.

But now, Harry no longer needed a physics tutor. They didn’t have a class together. Fortunately, they did spend most nights together. Harry took her to parties and broke the hearts of every girl that had pined for him for so long. He walked her to class when he was free, and she met him at the gym just to say hi and run on the treadmill while he did his routines with his friends.

Niall and Louis were over every Saturday morning, hungover and whining for her pancakes before she went to the bookstore. Harry spent many nights in her apartment, snuggled around her and it felt so good. So unbelievably good.

She just couldn’t get her mind to agree that it was a good thing.

It was her own doing. How could she not know he would find out. It was exactly the kind of thing that happened in a rom-com or a sit-com or any comedy really. The irony of it all was not lost on her. She should have known.

For someone that studied Physics, balanced two campus jobs, and managed to have a boyfriend, she was an idiot.

*

Harry was at the gym again. It was either the gym or pacing the floor of his apartment. After a day of pacing and grumbling to himself, Louis insisted he leave and do something productive before he put a rut in their floor and lost their security deposit.

Studying was hardly his forte prior to dating her and now she wasn’t there to help him with the finer details of studying—like actually getting him to focus—he was a lost cause. Just being in her presence made it easier to focus. Like a little reminder that she was proud of him.

Thus, he was at the gym, the second time in the day. At the very least he would break his personal record twice in a day. The longer he stayed there, the worse his frustration got. His form was impeccable. Niall kept his eyebrows in a fixed uprise on his forehead. He whistled lowly.

“Shut up,” he grumbled.

“Do you know how stupid you’re being?”

“Inform me, please.”

“She’s the whole package, Harry. She’s smart, beautiful, funny, and I thought the pancakes were impressive, but the way she chugs a beer is honestly...” he chuckled. “I want my own tutoring lesson.”

Harry ignored him and made his way for the bench press. “Shut up,” he repeated.

“Harry, it’s ridiculous. You love her,” he reminded him.

“Spot me or shut up.”

Niall sighed. “If I don’t get pancakes soon, I’m going to lose it,” he warned Harry. It had been two weeks. They had barely spoken only murmuring hi when they bumped into one another. People ogled them before they started dating, now it only amplified.

“You’re a grown up, tell her y’want pancakes,” he muttered straining under the weight of his barbell.

“Christ, Harry,” he shook his head. “You’re a grown up. Talk to her.”

Harry did two reps and then his arms started to shake. It was too much for one day on top of the fact that without her help studying she was able to distract him here too.

“Why would she say that?” He murmured.

“Say what?”

“That...” he rubbed a hand over his face. His shirt was soaked with sweat. His scalp was itchy, he wanted to go home. Well, he really wanted to go to her place and lay with his head in her lap while she ran her fingers through his hair. They would watch a movie and fall asleep on the couch and eventually Harry would wake up and carry her to her room where they would snuggle and dream until the morning. “That s’not serious.”

“Well...have you asked her to be your girlfriend?” Niall sat on the floor while Harry straddled the seat. Niall stretched.

“I thought it was implied when we spend every night together.”

“Harry, she’s a nice, sweet girl.”

“Thanks, Niall. I didn’t notice,” he rolled his eyes.

“Well,” he shrugged.

“Let’s go.”

“Fine,” Niall hopped up, grabbed their waters. “But I’m not gonna snuggle with you the way she does.”

*

“This is ridiculous, you know it’s ridiculous right?”

She was lying on the floor between the TV and the coffee table, facedown. An unintelligible groan went into the carpet, and she tilted her head up briefly and then smacked it back on the floor gently. “Fuck.”

“You could easily apologize,” Sarah told her.

“Why did I say that?” She groaned.

“It’s new! And Harry...”

She rolled onto her back and stared at the ceiling. “Harry’s been nothing but nice to me. He’s done nothing but shown me that he likes me and cares about me. I just ruined it. I humiliated him and I couldn’t even deny it. I feel so...bad. Who does that?!”

Sarah sat on her hips making her grunt. “You. You did that, you idiot.”

“Thanks,” she mumbled.

“Well, fix it!”

“Sarah,” she sighed and put hands on her eyes. “He’s never going to trust me.”

“Of course, he does. The only thing that’s going through that stupid head of his is that he hasn’t made you feel more secure.”

“But he did.”

“So tell him. It was a lapse in judgment. Alcohol. Tell him you had a cold. He won’t care. He just wants you to know you can trust him.”

“But I am so...not his type.”

“Well, hate t’break it to y’kitten,” she mimicked Harry’s accent and her nickname. “You are now.”

*

“So how did you meet Harry?” She knew the girl was drunk. She didn’t get her name. It was Shauna or Shayna, or something. She couldn’t remember. Instead, she sipped her own alcohol, glanced around to see Harry playing beer pong with Louis and Niall.

“Uh...” she swallowed. “We had Physics last semester. He needed tutoring.”

“Oh, that’s so cute!” But not-Shauna didn’t make it sound like it was cute. It was so condescending. It made her feel awkward and almost ashamed of how they met. She wished they had met at a party or a bar. Something more college-y—although what was more college-y than meeting in class?

“Uh...yeah, it was,” because it was. It was cute. The way Harry came up to her in the middle of the dining hall—it was out of a movie. He was handsome, perfect, and so nice to her. Even though she heard rumors and felt inadequate about the type of girl he normally surrounded himself with, it was undeniably cute. It was tragic she felt ashamed of their meeting.

“So how long is that?” Not-Shauna continued.

“Pardon?”

“How long have you been a couple, officially?”

It was innocuous. Four months. All she had to say was four months.

“Oh...well...we haven’t really discussed...” she cleared her throat. “I’m not sure of the exact date...” she looked at the contents of her cup. “I don’t think it’s been…” nothing was coming to the surface to explain what they were. Not accurately.

Four months.

That’s all she had to say.

She’d been studying physics for a while. Time dilation was something she only considered in movies and in theory. Einstein’s kind of thing. Not her thing. At a party when she was just asked how long she had been dating the man that spent five out of seven nights in her bed, wrapped around her...hell inside of her... was not a place for physics.

But somehow, the hours ticked by in place of the minutes. The carbonation of the soda water mixing with her vodka was moving in slow motion. It was like she could count every bubble that reached the surface and popped. “Oh, you’re not...official,” not-Shayna said.

Again, that condescension was so uncomfortable, she nearly dropped her drink. The time dilation started again. She was counting the bubbles. “Well, actually—” But not-Shayna was gone. The movie that was her life immediately turned into a horror film. “Oh no,” she mumbled to herself.

The minutes that were hours suddenly turned into seconds. Someone whispered something to someone else. The game of telephone sped by in seconds.

Harry missed his final pong shot. He whipped around to her, her cup halfway to her mouth. Her cheeks turned beet red. As red as the cup she sipped from.

Anger. Anger was an appropriate reaction. A fiery gaze, a flushed complexion. Even hands in fists were understandable for her faux pas.

Anger would have been preferable to the hurt expression on Harry’s sweet face.

*

After her shift at the bookstore, she was lying on the floor again. Sarah invited her to go shopping. But she couldn’t. Nothing seemed right. An idiot. That’s what she was. A Physics student with a 3.9 GPA and she was probably the dumbest person on campus.

There was a knock on her door. “Sarah, I cannot shop,” she groaned. “I’ll probably trip and fall in the food court and ruin some poor teen couple’s movie and dinner date and they’ll never live happily ever after because that’s all I do. Ruin a perfectly good couple.”

“Um... not Sarah,” she jumped off the floor. Laying down to standing in less than one second. She sprinted to the door and yanked it out of the way. “Hi,” Harry said softly.

“Hi,” she answered awkwardly.

“Can I... come in?”

She swallowed, opened the door wider, and moved out of the way. He hurried in, sat on the couch. It was like the first time Harry came over to help decorate. It was basically his spot. When everything made sense. She felt more at ease seeing him in her space again; making himself comfortable.

But comfort only lasted seconds because he looked… anxious. Which only fueled her anxiety.

He rubbed his hand on the back of his head and sighed. Dropped his hands into his lap. “I think we should talk, kitten.”

“I shouldn’t have said it!” She blurted. Her own pacing started. Her heart rate started to fly to a dangerous level. She was pacing in her floor spot that she designated for laying. “I don’t know what was wrong with me! Sarah told me to tell you it was a cold or the alcohol... or maybe I had a stroke. I don’t even remember what she said to tell you. But I don’t have a reason. Which is worse. I wish I had a reason, Harry. I don’t know what’s wrong with me, but I should have said anything but what I said. You have made me so happy over the last four months,” she was still pacing looking like a psychopath. “You have made me feel so safe and so... loved and I don’t know why I had such a lapse in horrible judgment like that. I mean you made me a hot chocolate bar for God’s sake! You don’t mind studying and you don’t care that I drool like a teething infant when I sleep. Even when I get it all over your pillow or your shirt. I feel so terrible, Harry. So completely terrible. I don’t know how I can be so smart in class and make everyone jealous and then go and say that about you. Or not say! I don’t know what's wrong with me but—”

Harry was quiet while she rambled and paced. It was cute. Sweet even. It was nice to know she was rattled, selfishly—they both paced when upset. It was sweet. Cute to know they shared it. He smiled softly. “Do y'want t’be m’girlfriend?”

She stopped pacing, finally. Her heart finally slowed, she put a hand to her chest, like it would keep it slow as she looked at him squarely for the first time since she started ranting. “What?”

“Well,” his grin grew. He looked at his lap again, his palms rubbing on his thighs. “It might be easier on us both t’tell you I love you. Y’know...if y’were m’girlfriend. Might be easier on you t’answer that kind of question if y’had a date t’tell people of when we’ll have our official anniversary.”

“You’re not breaking up with me?”

He chuckled. “No,” he smiled. “Also have t’be officially together t’break up, kitten.”

“You’re not going to wait till I say yes and then ask to break up, are you?”

Harry stood finally, put his hands on her cheeks to hold her in place. He kissed her forehead for an extended moment. It felt so good. Like the other hundreds of times that he did it over the last few months. In two weeks, it felt like a drought. “M’sorry I didn’t reassure you,” he wrapped his arms around her body and instantly she sank into his embrace.

“Did you say you loved me?”

He nodded. “M’hmm,” he hummed.

“Oh.”

“Do y’want me t’take it back.”

“No, thank you.”

He chuckled into her hair. “S’very polite of you, kitten,” he pulled back. “I love you,” he repeated, gazing into her eyes. “Loved you the moment y’agreed t’help me. A poor, sorry, hopeless, Physics-less sap like me.”

“You’re not so hopeless.”

“M’hopeless ‘bout you, kitten,” he assured her.

“I love you too," she gazed up at him, her eyes wide, expressive and so very sweet, "by the way.”

“I thought s’what y’meant in all that rambling," he chuckled.

She didn't laugh. “I’m sorry Harry, truly. That was so not okay.”

Harry shrugged. “I jus’ missed you, kitten. S’okay. I get why y'said it. We never really defined it,” he promised. “M’sorry I didn’t ask sooner or come make up sooner.”

She sighed into his chest. “Will you stay tonight?” She asked quietly. Her voice muffled by his shirt. The thought of being snuggled together made her so happy.

Harry wanted to make a joke about inertia. Or an object at rest. Something. But it wouldn’t come. He was too happy to have made up.

“Try and stop me, kitten.”

“Niall and Louis make you come here?” She asked.

“M’supposed t’ask if you’ll make them pancakes for dinner once we’ve properly made up," Harry chuckled and murmured into her hair.

“What’s ‘properly’ mean?" She asked innocently, a smile on her face that was anything but innocent.

He chuckled. “I’ll teach you,” he winked, tilting her face so he could kiss her deeply; the way he wanted to for the last week and a half.

And teach her what ‘proper’ meant.

--

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[zhivaoverdrive]

Non comic version Visit https://linktr.ee/zhiva_overdrive for Implant & Body Modifications morphs captions and stories. ---- "Surely am! Don't look like a taxi do I? The name is Dara, now are we going to get you to the Implant Expander Clinic or what?" - Dara ----

She'd said yes immediately, without a second thought. When the magazine said jump, Dara said how high. But that wasn't all, not this time.

"Airport pickup? Sure. What's a bigwig doing out here?" she said into the phone. Dara looked into the mirror as she spoke, trying on a few expressions that might win her some points. Dara may not have been a covergirl yet, but she was a smokeshow and she knew it. Pulling her shirt a little lower, she smiled at brand new breasts that greeted her. Might be my moment, she thought.

"Not exactly a bigwig... listen we're trying to keep this under wraps. Will you pick her up or not?" said the voice on the phone, after a long pause.

Dara stopped dead in her tracks. A HER from the magazine. Travelling here... Now that *is* interesting. Some careful prying won't hurt.

"You got it, my lips are sealed! When and where? Staying in the Ritz like normal?" she said. Still in front of the mirror, Dara tried to remove all traces of curiosity from her voice and face.

"... no, not a hotel. Look I'll send you the flight details, then take her where she's going. Keep it quiet and we'll owe you one, you and the car in the next issue, guaranteed." the voice on the phone said, the finality of the statement quite clear. It's her. Has to be. Dara said her pleasantries and hung up the phone, mind racing.

She was no fool. Everyone knows what is in this city; hell, she'd recently visited the clinic herself. A woman from the magazine, coming here and not staying in a hotel. There could be no mistaking it.

And if it was just any woman she'd get a taxi... They want it under wraps, so it MUST be her.

Dara walked to her garage and opened the door, eyes landing on her pride and joy. It wasn't exactly the right tool for the job. Would she even fit? Sliding the front passenger seat forward, Dara felt a pang of excitement run through her body as she gazed at the back seats, still unsure if they would accommodate her fare.

Natasha changed everything. She's about to sit in this car...

Dara stepped out and tenderly ran her hand down the A pillar. We're going to make an impression aren't we. ---

She was tired, she was hot, she was ready to not be in an airport. The performative charade of her departure from the plane had seemed fun at first, but hiding under a blanket in the tropical sun had quickly soured that adventure.

Had this trip been for any other reason, Natasha would not put up with these indecencies. I guess I've made my bed here... she thought.

One way or the other, she needed to get back to the IEC. Inside, she'd known that quite a long time ago. It was hard to tell precisely when she'd crossed the threshold, gone beyond the pale, but it had happened. The week she'd spent locked in her room with the saline pumps running? Perhaps it was then...

Finally out of the terminal, away from her 'security escort', Natasha looked around a quiet parking lot. Tossing her blankets of decency aside, she began a careful walk, searching for some sign of her ride. Like the plane, she'd been assured that everything had been organised. If they'd managed to sneak her into the crew of a commercial flight, surely they can book a big taxi...

Rounding a corner, Natasha's eyes fell on the first living person she'd seen in the car park so far. Suddenly wishing for the blanket, she smiled meekly and continued her cautious gait.

"Natasha! You're not planning to *walk* there are you?" said the stranger.

Natasha did a double take. The stranger was squatting down in front of a striking white car. She wore a leather jacket and skirt, both of which did very little to conceal her curves. The skirt rode up revealing a quite clearly artificial ass, not to mention the proud implants protruding from her open jacket.

Who am I to judge, Natasha laughed to herself, as her scantily clad form was not a beacon of modesty. She felt her confidence coming back. This was more like it. No more hiding.

Taking the final steps with care, Natasha approached the crouching stranger. "You're from the magazine, I take it?" she said, bending forward to meet the strangers gaze. The move threatened to fold her spine in half, but seeing the sass begin to fade from the stranger's face told her that it was worth the pain. But the stranger recovered quickly. "Surely am! Don't look like a taxi do I? The name is Dara, now are we going to get you to the Implant Expander Clinic or what?"

This whole trip had been nothing but secrecy, cloak and dagger. Tash was about to let out a scowl, but caught herself. There was something about Dara that she liked.

[padfootdaredmetoo]

Closing Walls & Ticking Clocks is one of my favourite current series from you and I'd love a chapter where both sides of the family 'attempt' to have a peaceful dinner as a truce that eventually turns into the chaos one would expect when the Solomons + the Shelbys come together 🤭🙈 lots of love from Cass, proud of you always my friend.

Lovely Cass!

This is a whole bunch of things and it does include a dinner but most of the chaos will be in the next chapter! Hope you like where this is going. Love you ❤���

Rated: nothing explicit. The reader has an anxiety attack - not described in too much detail, but there are flashbacks to abuse, and she is comforted immediately. Mentions of losing a baby in the past, usual Shelby drama / peaky related themes

Previous parts: click here

You watched closely as Lizzie and Tommy navigated their relationship. He’d become much more protective of her, trying to be by her side more. 

 You’d sneakily traded bits and pieces of information about you and Noah to Polly till she was tipsy enough to give you more details about what had happened to Ruby. Once finished her eyes glazed over as she looked into the fire. You knew that she put on a sunny exterior for you and the kids, but deep down she looked an awful lot like Tommy in these moments. 

Tired. 

There were little wrinkles on her face that you’d not previously noticed and suddenly you felt the familiar pain of knowing that nothing lasts forever. Your eyes watered slightly at the thought of losing everyone one day.  

“Time is all you have in the end.” She said darkly as if reading your thoughts. “Lizzie’s tough, she’ll be fine, love.” She followed in her usual tone. 

The next few days you felt weighed down by Lizzie’s story. Unfortunately, there was nothing for you to do other than hope and pray that things would be different. Doctors were in and out frequently, and you’d walk in step with them asking questions till Tommy would tell you off. 

The only thing that took your mind off of her, was the ever-growing threat against the family. Faceless, nameless, and motivated by revenge. No one would answer your questions or concerns.

Not knowing what else to do you called Noah. Mostly because you missed him, but also because you hoped that if Alfie had heard anything Noah would pass it along to you. The sound of his deep voice was enough to make your shoulders drop and you slid down the kitchen wall, taking a stolen cigarette out of your pocket. You started off with the code immediately, assuming anyone could be listening to your calls. 

“I got a new coat ordered, it's Red. Going to match my Red shoes.” You said in a girly tone. 

Red - things are sketchy, don't say too much. 

“I liked the green one personally. Should I come around later? ” There was a faint tone of worry in his voice that made your knees weak. 

“No, dad’s very busy. Lots of things happening with the business, you know how it can get.” You brushed him off taking a long drag of your cigarette. Wishing more than anything you could rest in his arms for a bit. 

“I miss you.” He said softly and you heard an eruption of abuse calling after him from the men in the warehouse. 

“I miss you too. Tell your dad I say hi? Might need to bring some apples around to make a pie one of these days.” 

Apples - help. 

“I’m sure he’d like that. When are you available to come around?” 

“Anytime over the next few weeks should be fine. Nothing urgent is happening with me at the moment.” Things felt very urgent. But you didn't want to worry him. 

“Just missing you both. Your dad always has so much to say.” You laughed a little remembering the brief meeting you’d had with him. 

“We miss you too, love.” 

“I’ll call you tonight.” 

“Bye.” The line went dead and you hoped he understood what you were asking for. 

You took a few breaths before getting back on your feet. You quickly opened a window and aired out the space before going up to find Lizzie. You spent the day by her side trying to make her laugh. When she’d get quiet you’d tuck in next to her and read. You found a great deal of comfort in being beside her and with the way she’d press a kiss to the top of your head or run her hand down your arm you felt she must feel the same. 

That night, faceless men started following you in your sleep leaving you with the feeling that you were being watched. The phone rang sending you out of your bed and flying down the hallway. The ringing had stopped before you reached the phone at the bottom of the stairs. Moving into Tommy’s study you assumed he’d be giving Noah a hard time like he usually did. But it was silent. Your dad’s face was emotionless and cold as he looked up from his desk. He listened to whoever was on the other end of the phone. 

“That won’t be necessary.” Swiftly he ended the call while putting out the cigarette dangling from his other hand. 

“They are going to start closing in on us. No phone calls, no one in, and no one out of the house. You hear me?” His eyes were dark and for once you understood why people were so afraid of him. You froze on the spot your brain understanding what he was trying to say, but the rest of you only registered his tone. A wave of irrational panic started to shoot through you. He never talked to you that way ever. 

“Do you hear me?” His words cut into you. “Don’t go calling Noah, just fucking forget him eh? For now. For both your sakes just fucking leave this alone.”

I fucked up. He blames me. 

Memories of your late father's hand across your cheek became harder and harder to push down. Memories of the Priest at the orphanage with his hands around your neck flooded your mind.

Suddenly he got up from his seat and instead of running you decided to drop to the floor finally breaking eye contact. You tried to push him away as he picked you up and without a word he carried your shaking body upstairs. Your mind was racing in a hundred different directions accepting your fate, you squeezed your eyes shut. You heard a door open and then you were placed on a bed, but the sheets were wrong. 

“What’s wrong with her.” Lizzie hissed and you felt her hands cradle your face. 

“I may have shouted at her,” Tommy responded in an exasperated tone. He picked you up and placed you properly next to Lizzie. 

“You shout at each other all the time?” She whispered, her cool fingers brushing the worry lines from your forehead. “Thomas,” She said in a tone that would wilt flowers. 

“I’m fine.” You whisper. You felt the two of them get you under a blanket. 

“Look, look at me.” He said softly. You shook your head, afraid to see that awful look in his eyes again. He said your name and Lizzie put her arm around you. You could tell by her sharp intake of breath that whatever she was about to say would be fatal. You opened your eyes and saw the version of him you were used to. 

“Alfie and I don't have the best track record. He’s sold us out a few times, Eh? He works for the highest bidder. The last thing I want to see is you or the boy caught up in this. I don’t want either of you hurt. I know you will blame yourself for the rest of your life if something happens to him.” 

Grace. 

His words started to make sense, well, they always made sense. It was the way he said it that set you off. You nodded to show that you understood.  He kissed your forehead and you made an unsuccessful effort to not jump away. The hurt in his eyes and the way Lizzie tensed up caused you to tell the truth. 

“It’s not you. My dad- the priest - I - “ You took a deep breath. “I figured I was in for a beating. Just caught me off guard. You're fine. Thank you for caring about Noah.” 

“Care is a bit much-” 

“Thomas,” Lizzie warned. He let out a sigh, something flashed in his face and you assumed it was wonder about how he ended up here. 

“What? Look, no one is putting their hands on you, certainly not me. And if anyone does I’ll kill them myself.”  

You nodded and were grateful that those words ended the evening. You held his hand until you felt like you could doze off. Lizzie had fallen asleep again and you moved her arm off of you gently before kissing Tommy good night. 

You fell asleep the moment your head touched the pillow. 

Waking up your heart sank at the thought of not seeing or speaking to Noah for an undermined about of time. Sadness quickly turned into rage at the thought of some of the girls in your class moving in on him in your absence. With a huff of defeat, you got up and stuffed your feet into your slippers. Opening the curtain you were met with a positively gorgeous sight. The forest was coated in a heavy blanket of white snow. 

Everything was pushed from your head momentarily as you ran through the house to find your parents. Loud voices were drifting up from the stairs and suddenly you were met with the whole family stuffed into the entryway. Swearing and shouting at the kids and where people's things were, the chaos only added to your high spirits. 

“What's going on?” 

“Movin' in!” Arthur boomed pulling you into a hug. The maids floated passed you to help bring everyone's things in. You naturally moved to Tommy’s side. 

“Dad! Did you see the snow!” 

“It’s hard to miss.” 

“Can we go for a walk today?” You wanted to spend time with him just to ensure everything was good between the two of you. John came close and pressed his shoulder against Tommy’s before he could answer.

“Whole pack of cars just pulled up to the gate,” John said in a hushed voice. “M’ assuming it's for her.” He nodded towards you with a small smile. 

“Why would it be for her-” Tommy stopped suddenly. “You’ve got to be kidding me.” 

Knowing that look could only mean it was Noah, you moved passed everyone to set out onto the front steps. 

It looked like the King was coming though. A whole parade of black cars rolled up and started pouring in from the gate. Without better judgment, you kicked off your slippers and tore down the steps in nothing but your nightgown and wool jumper. 

“No! -” Tommy shouted but you saw the third black car slow down and Noah got out and started towards you. Everything was pushed from your mind as you ran through the snow-covered drive. 

___

She jumped up and he caught her in a large embrace, twirling her around, her laugh echoing. They said nothing as he picked her up and started to carry her the rest of the way back to the house. 

“So romantic isn't it?” Esme said and Tommy resisted the urge to put a hole in the wall. 

“Young love. Can’t be stopped can it?” Lizzie said appearing out of nowhere. 

“She must have mentioned what's going on. Brought the whole fucking organization by the looks of it.” Esme responded. Lizzie looked over to Tommy, his posture made her quickly grab his arm to lean against him. 

“Not sure how they’re going to get back to London in this weather,” Polly stated the obvious with a devious smile on her face.

Noah carried her all the way up the stairs placing her on the entryway carpet. 

“What are you doing here!” She said breathlessly, her face pink. 

“Bringing Apples.” He answered easily. Her face lit up as everyone watched in confusion. Whatever it was it meant a lot to her. 

Apples? - better not be some kinky shit or ill skin him alive. Tommy thought bitterly as Alfie came into view. 

“Morning,” Alfie said looking pleased with himself.  “Word on the street says the Shelbys are back under one roof.” 

“Office,” Tommy said pulling Lizzie alongside him. Arthur and John watched Alfie closely as they all descended into the office. 

__________

The office door closed and you looked back up at Noah still unbelieving that he was there. After carrying you all that way your flushed body was most certain of his close presence, but your mind was more stubborn. You thought maybe his dad would call if he heard anything. You didn't think he’d come all this way in a snowstorm. He kept you close and you were desperate to talk to him alone. A look that must have been obvious as Esme suddenly started herding you all into the Kitchens. 

“Long journey like that requires a hot cuppa tea!”

The three of you sat at the table while the kids ran wildly through the house. She poured glasses of whiskey and hot tea before starting her interrogation. 

“So all the way from London, that’s a long way for some tea.” 

He chuckled and took a  sip of the whiskey before answering. 

“It's excellent tea.” He smiled at you and your face turned hot. “I heard that things were getting a bit dangerous in these parts. Thought the least I could do is ask around and come to help out.” His stare was intense as you realized the full extent of what he meant. He brought everyone here to protect you. 

“Interesting and what did you hear exactly?” 

“The Changretta family was taking a special interest in the whereabouts of the family. They came to us, the day before some Irish lads told us that you were all moving back to watery lane. You called later on saying things were dangerous.” 

“And all the lads?” 

“Wasn’t sure what type of folks you had protecting the place. Figured more wouldn't be a problem.” 

“And your Da’ what’s in it for him?” 

“Ah, that I’m not quite sure of. I’d like to think that they did it because I asked. But he and Thomas always seem to have something going on between them.” 

Esme nodded satisfied with her answers. 

“So you brought men - “ 

“And guns.” 

“Men and guns, but how are the two of you going to get back to London.” 

“Figured we join in on the fun.” He shrugged. Esme let out a laugh. 

________________________________

“I told you this wasn't necessary,” Tommy said in a tense voice. 

“Eh, the boy wouldn't shut up. He’s miserable when he starts. Just like his mum was.” Alfie said looking around. 

“Why help us?” Arthur asked with clenched fists.  

“Well, things are a bit different these days, no?” 

“Not different to us. Kids in love or not, we still have history, and this isn't a time to be doing business.” John said responding before Arthur could get them into trouble. 

“Irish boys are out on the street saying that the Shelby clan are moving back to Watery lane. Changretta are chasing every lead they get for information about you lot. Gave me an offer to help finish you off.” 

“And?” Tommy said cooly. 

“And I told them I’d see it done. The real question is how are we going to get back at them if we are holed up in the house?” 

“The snow -” John started. 

“-Will give us time to plan, but we’ll need to be ready once the roads clear.” 

“Again why help us?” Tommy asked. 

“I have a business offer.” Tommy knew he wouldn't give more information with everyone in the room. 

“You lot out.” He waved for everyone but Lizzie and Alfie to leave. Once the door was shut he waited for him to go on. 

“Well, this gives me a couple opportunities. To spend time with your girl and also to ask about the passages you used to transport certain goods. I’ll assume you still know some people.” 

“I’ll have it done,” Tommy said after a long moment. 

“Thomas, I’m not sure I like where this is going. He’s a fucking mess without her.” Alfie said in a low tone. 

“That makes two of us,” Tommy answered sternly. 

“If I find out this is some big play to get back at me I’ll be sure you all pay a hefty price.” 

“Trust me, this is the last thing I want her involved in."

The two men stared at each other for a long while.

“Look, we love our daughter, you love your son. For their sake let’s try to keep things as normal as possible. No business when they are around. Whether things work out or not let's just try to get along like parents would?” Lizzie was starting to feel another bout of morning sickness come on and was desperate to be back upstairs. 

“Deal.” Alfie put his hand out and they shook on it. 

______________________ 

Soon enough the Sitting room was packed. You were very amused at Alfie and Noah being thrown into the mix. You sat next to him and you both kept a close eye on Tommy and Alfie leaving to speak in private with the boys every time information came in. 

“Do you want to go for a walk with me?” You asked desperate for some fresh air and space to talk freely about what he’d said to Esme. 

“Not sure that’s the best idea. Don’t want you to catch a cold.” He looked around the room giving away his actual motive. 

“Sit outside on the steps for a bit?” You bargained. Somehow you both managed to slip out unnoticed and went to sit on the steps at the back door. Lots of camps were set up with big fires and people making jokes and laughing.

“So you know about these Changretta folks?” You watched his face closely as he thought about his response. 

“Not really my place, love.” He lit a cigarette and avoided your eyes. 

“Please? No one will tell me anything.” He let out a sigh and you leaned against his side, he wrapped his arm around you. 

“They are an Italian family. Apparently, John killed off a guy for dating Lizzie a while back. Things went back and forth before they had their hands full with other things. Now Luca has come back to avenge his family by taking yours out.” 

“And you are involved because of me?” You said weakly. 

“Dad’s been trying to expand business in New York for a while now, plus he wants something from Tommy.” His eyes told you it was something else. “Even without that stuff, we’d be here. Not going to leave you alone when I know I can help.” You leaned in and pressed a kiss to his lips. Enjoying the smell of cigarette smoke and the warmth of his hand on your cheek. 

“Wait - John killed someone for dating Lizzie? What - wait what do you know about my family?” 

“Erm- A fair bit, I suppose.” A dark feeling made itself present in the pit of your stomach. You mentally slapped yourself for not asking these types of questions sooner.  You looked at him sprawled on the top stair smoking his cigarette. Revisiting Tommy’s words from the night before about how Alfie had sold them out. 

What if you’d just brought the enemy into the house? What if that’s why he’s with you. 

“Our families are more friends than they are enemies. I’m not interested in business, your dad worked hard to get his life cleaned up. I respect him for not wanting you to fall into all this.” 

“Does that mean you’d leave it behind?” He leaned in closer to you and you suddenly wanted more than anything to kiss him again. 

“In a heartbeat.” He kissed your forehead before helping you up. 

___________________________________

Tommy sat at the table, a task that was already challenging with his family. Alfie and Noah were an interesting addition. He would never admit it but having them here wasn't as horrible as he thought it would be. Alfie was well-behaved, and for the first time, Tommy got the feeling that perhaps the two of them were getting old. 

Most of the dinner was spent harassing the two teens. Noah took on the worst of it. 

“Your dad is a right savage. He ever tell you about the time with the Russians? Savage.” 

“Alfie,” Tommy warned. 

“You should have seen them the whole lot of them acting like animals. We stole -” 

“Alfie.” He said more sternly. 

“Fine, but what about the time with the bear in the pub - that’s a right classic.” 

“Bear in the pub?” Lizzie asked as Tommy finished the last of his drink. 

“Nother time I suppose.” He scratched his beard. “Well, what about you love, what are you planning to do after school.” 

“I erm - well I was thinking of pursuing accounting. Always jobs for that and I’m good with numbers. I haven't thought about it much.” 

“Numbers, I like that. Smart girl, people like us always need clever accountants. Very sharp.”  Alfie said cheerfully and Tommy hated how she was eating up his approval. 

“If you were to be married -” 

“Alfie” Tommy growled earning a laugh from Esme. Arthur looked positively distraught over the concept, reaching for the whisky bottle. 

“We can save that for later I suppose. Hmmm well, there was how we first met - do you remember darling?” He looked over at Tommy and it wasn't unnoticed how annoyed he was. 

“What if we don't tell stories tonight, eh?” Tommy suggested tensely. Alfie thought about it for a moment before turning to Polly. 

“Are you really a gypsy queen? Does that make you sort of famous amongst your people?” He started again and Tommy was suddenly worried that they would run out of whiskey if the snow was actually going to stick for a full week. Esme seemed to find the whole thing hilarious often indulging him with stories and jokes. Tommy was grateful for her ability to keep things civil. Eventually, Arthur was looking slightly pickled and it was well past eleven. 

He locked eyes with Polly and she asked a silent question. 

Should we keep drinking, or go to bed? 

Everyone hated the dining room, this was probably the most time they’d managed to spend in it,  but moving to the kitchen was more a family-only type thing. Looking over to Lizzie answered the question well enough. She looked beautiful but exhausted. 

“Bout time for bed eh?” Polly announced. 

“Guess so. Help me with the stables?” Arthur asked you and you nodded looking slightly surprised. Which meant something was most certainly going on. There was no reason to help with the stables. 

“Francis, can you show everyone to their rooms?” Tommy asked easily. 

“Of course.” She answered. 

Tommy watched as you gave Noah a hug, he whispered something in your ear that made you smile. Then you moved into the entryway to pull your boots on. 

“Night.” Tommy nodded at Alfie. 

“Night” He nodded back. 

After helping Lizzie up to the room he went out the stables to see what the commotion was about. He followed the dark path to the stables. 

“No way. No absolutely no. How? I just - you and Lizzie. Does Esme know?!” Your voice called out as he approached the door. 

“Well, I’m sure it's been mentioned but let's not bring up the past eh?” John responded looking slightly pale. Tommy leaned against the doorway watching his two brothers attempt to lecture you. John sitting on a bucket as Arthur paced in front of you. You saw him standing there but decided to keep quiet. 

“Anyway the point is. Lots of stuff between us and the Solomons eh.” Arthur started 

“Can’t trust em” John added 

“And trust me. I know exactly what you're thinking. Oooh he’s so handsome and he smokes cigarettes and his hair's all swoopy and he’s got nice muscles. He’s all mysterious and dangerous. Swoon, maybe I could change him.” 

“You can't,” John said nodding. 

“Absolutely can’t change him.” Arthur continued. “Now he’s here because he’s done business with Tommy. Once he’s gotten what he wants and this mess is cleaned up. He’s going to be on to the next lass.” 

“You’ll be devastated.” 

“So don't even think about sleeping with him. He’s probably fuck-” Tommy watched your face pinch up similar to the way it had before you fell to the floor the night before. 

“That’s enough Arthur.” Tommy interrupted sharply. “I think she understands.” 

You nodded hiding away the hurt in your eyes. 

“How many random people have you guys killed?” You asked. 

“I don’t know about random…” John mumbled 

“Are we including the war?” Arthur asked. Tommy thought about the past and wondered if what you’d seen in your life would make you understanding of the choices he’d made. 

“Okay so let me get this straight. Lizzie was a wh-prostitute, sleeping with Tommy then John wanted to marry her - but you ruined it - Gace - the Grace was gone, then back, then passed, and then you started sleeping with Lizzie again as her boss - and then you married her when she got pregnant - then got me when Ruby passed?” 

“More or less” Tommy shrugged, seemed a bit over the top when it's all laid out like that.

“Wait till she hears about Gretta,” Arthur said quietly. 

“And all the others in between-” John added before stopping himself. 

“Do you love her?” Your voice was steady, and he knew you well enough to know you were gearing up for a fight. 

“Yes.” He answered seriously. 

“Promise?” 

“Got you so she’d stay.” He wasn't sure if it was the right thing to say. “Ruby brought us together, but I think it was meant to be from the start.”

You nodded thinking for a moment. 

“Do you think Alfie is here to kill us in our sleep?” 

“No, I think Alfie’s here because he wants a piece of  New York and wants Changretta out of the way.” 

“Do you think Noah’s with me to ruin the family?” 

“No. Alfie wouldn't send his son to his dirty work. I’m not sure of his intentions, but I don’t think they are related to the business.”

“So you think he likes me for me?” 

“I think teenage boys are awful and cruel. For his sake, he better like you for you. Or we’ll handle it.” 

“Either way you won't leave me?” Your eyes narrowed and he could tell it was difficult for you to get the words out. 

“Never.” 

“No matter how bad I fuck up?” 

“Never.” He repeated. “That being said you can sleep in with Lizzie tonight.” 

“Was going to sleep with Pol.” 

“No.” He answered easily.

“Alright.” You said without fuss surprising him. 

“Now is there anything else you both left out?” He looked and John and Arthur.

“Well, we could be out here all night-” 

“Let’s not and say we did, eh?

They all piled back into the house and you followed Tommy up the stairs before going back to your room to change. 

_________________

After getting ready in your bathroom you noticed that your bedding had already been moved. You slowly made your way to your parent's room down the hall. Getting close to the door you heard them talking. 

“Well, how would you know what she thinks of me now?” Lizzie snapped. You decided to make your way in there to break up whatever they were arguing about. 

“Probably no different than she’s always thought of you.” He mumbled as you came into the room. 

Lizzie gave you a strange look and suddenly you thought back to how Arthur had spoken about her past. You stepped over your cot at the foot of the bed to climb up in between them. 

You placed yourself against her side and enjoyed the way she embraced you. 

“Are you frightened again?” She whispered, running her hands through your hair.

“No - well I’m not sure. I want to think Noah’s here for the right reasons.” 

“I think he is darling. Try not to stress over it.”She placed a kiss on your head and you felt better knowing what she thought. 

You considered going back to the floor but to put Tommy at ease you stayed between them dozing off. 

[bee-c-e]

(Re)Vengance

CW: non-detailed violence, potentially OOC

Notes: this is literally my first time writing Hazbin characters, so while i did my best to make them accurate, they’re probably bit out of character. sorry!

♥️•♣️•♦️•♠️• • •🦌•🥩•🎙️•🫀

The Radio Demon lied on the dusty ground, panting heavily, desperately grasping for some sense of being able to breathe. Never would he have thought he’d find himself at the sharp end of this sword, so to speak.

“Husker- my good friend- surely you must understand the… consequences- of your actions?”

“I understand perfectly. Do you?” Husk’s voice was lower than the overlord demon could say he had ever heard it before. His previous pet was barely speaking above a whisper, though the sound resonated in Alastor’s ears. His smile strained.

After several moments of silence, Charlie spoke up, sounding shaky, “Husk… you really shouldn’t do this. I mean- he’s done so much for all of us-“

“What has he done for me except take me prisoner for years?” He was strangely calm, seemingly apathetic about the situation he was in. His speech wasn’t crazed, nor manic. It was almost professional. The Princess of Hell stood behind him, making him look over his shoulder from where he had the Radio Demon pinned by the neck.

Uncomfortable silence echoed in his ears, and he relished in it. “Let’s face it, Charlie, the only person this fucker has helped is you.”

Charlie flinched, averting her gaze to the ground.

“I beg to differ, dear Husker. I’ve helped all of you in several ways. How else would you have fended off the angelic army if not for my knowledge of their weakness?”

Husk looked back at Alastor, “Yeah? Well, here we are. Who’s on whose leash now?” He watched in pure satisfaction as Alastor’s ears went back and the demon was able to do nothing about the rage he so clearly wanted to express. He could never again yank on Husk’s chain until he choked- threaten to tear his soul apart atom by atom. Even more, every year spent under that piece of shit had been beaten back into the demon, save for one. And how satisfying was that, to refer to him as a demon? Not an overlord, not his master- a demon. Like the rest of them (well, most of them. Husk still wasn’t sure what the fuck Niffty was). The reversal of roles was such poetic irony that Husk could wax its stanza for years on end without tiring.

“Angel spared Valentino, despite how much of a piece of shit that fucker is. Who’s to say I won’t do the same?” Husk spoke over his shoulder again to Charlie, and noticed that her expression was the epitome of internal conflict. She didn’t know until today the shit that Alastor had put him through. Didn’t know until today the extent of what Alastor had done to all of the souls under him. But freedom had finally come, and what a magnificent reward it was, to feel the weight of chains lifting from every limb. To hold the vital point of his tormentor in his own hand. Something so crucial, and yet so easy to crush.

Speak of the sinner, Angel watched only a slight distance from Charlie, looking stuck between concern and contentedness. He, more than anyone else here, knew the liberation that came not only with regaining your soul, but with forcing the one who held it for so long to quiver at your feet in fear the same way they forced you to so many times.

“That’s great, Husk! I knew-“

“Didn’t say I would.”

Alastor shuffled in his grip, his ears still back and his eyes narrowed, “Husker-“

Husk chuckled humorlessly, “You’d think you’d know when to shut your fucking mouth.”

Alastor, shockingly, stilled, though his smile grew sharper.

Charlie bit her lip. Took a deep breath, “As Princess of Hell, I demand that you release Alastor without killing him.”

Her voice didn’t quaver as much as it used to; in fact, it hardly did at all. Husk would’ve been lying if he’d said he wasn’t a little bit proud. Sucked that he was on the tail end of it this time.

Husk raised an eyebrow and opened his mouth to speak, but Angel beat him to it. “Really? Afta’ everythin’ he’s done?”

Charlie sighed, though it almost sounded like a choked-back sob. “Everyone deserves a second chance.”

Angel remained silent after that, his eyebrows furrowed as he stared at Charlie.

“Well Princess, hate to break it to ya’,” Husk flared his wings, “but this one’s been given too many.”

With that, Husker summoned a card- the Joker- and slashed across the space of Alastor’s neck while still looking at the Princess of Hell. What would be sickening thud rang in his ears, though Husk could only find it in himself to smirk. Another thud followed it, though he felt the body hit the ground more than he heard it.

The Radio Demon was dead.

[the-blue-marshmallow]

Wolfstar hand kisses

Here I am again with the worms. Enjoy this thing, whatever this is.

Also, a little competition(?). There is a certain typo in the text that is very much intentiomal and is a result of me and bestie being sleep deprived at like three in the morning. Those, who will find it and comment, get my eternal love (and a cookie).

Remus Lupin would like to call himself a reasonable man. He would also say he had immaculate control of himself, considering his many years spent dealing with his unfortunate lycanthropy. Remus rarely got distracted from his goals, he also wasn't too quick to anger. The teen was usually the brains of their pranks, quick to make up lies to cover their mischief. But so help him god almighty, he would lose his mind tonight.

Sirius Black, the inarguably most desired man of their year, was currently laying on Remus’s bed and twirling his wand between his long and thin fingers. He was reading his herbology book, probably studying for the upcoming test that loomed over the Marauders’ heads.

-Hey, Remy? - his voice was an innocent sing song as the teen pulled Remus’ attention to him. The taller man hummed in response. - Did you know that Asphodel is part of the lily family?

of course he knew. He was already done studying for their test, so it would be obvious to him. That, however, didn’t mean Sirius needed to know that.

-Oh, really? That’s interesting. - Ouch. He sounded tired, more than usually. It was only a few days after the last full moon and his voice was still hoarse.

-Yeah, I know. We should give Lily Asphodels for her next birthday. Maybe she could dry them and use them in her potions. - Sirius’ eyes twinkled prettily in the warm light of their room and for a moment Remus forgot how to make air move into his lungs.

Remus smiled at his dear boyfriend with a gentle look in his eyes.

-Why not. Just remember to order them a couple days before so we won't have to steal them from the greenhouse, okay? 

Sirius only nodded with that wide grin he got when he was excited about something and went back to his textbook. He started twirling his wand between his long fingers again. A shiny ring that Remus has never seen before catches his attention.

-Is this one new? - he wrapped his fingers around Sirius’ own and pulled his hand closer. Sirius dropped the wand on the bed and scooted closer, resting his chin in his palm.

-Yup. Pandora made it. She found the rock last Saturday when we went to the lake for a picnic, remember? - Sirius sounded awfully proud of the shiny ring. That wasn't an unusual thing for him. He loved showing off the things his friends made for him or gave him. Sometimes he reminded Remus of a bird, making a little nest on his bed. He would pile all of the shiny things in a very specific spot that would be the same without fail every time it was stocktaking time. He would pull Remus next to the bed and show him every single rock, ring, piece of glass or can tab. Sirius was very fond of stealing the tabs on the cans his friends had. Sometimes he would be so quick with it they wouldn't even notice when he took them. 

-Mhm, i do.

Remus gently took the ring off and looked it over, observing every detail. He put it on the bed with the most gentle move he could muster through the shaking of his hands. 

He slowly removed every ring from Sirius’ pretty fingers and put them in that spot. He rubbed the spots they revealed. Sirius’ skin was so much softer than his. Where Sirius was all soft lines and thin skin that was awfully smooth (probably from the cherry hand cream he was fond of so much), Remus was rough skin and scars. His hands were bigger, sturdier, more square. Remus’ skin was covered in tiny scratches and scars almost constantly. Sirius would say it was his anemia, Remus would every time try to convince him it was actually just bad luck. Sirius’ fingernails were perfectly manicured almonds with trimmed cuticles and sometimes even a shimmering nail polish. Remus’ nails were more square and rarely kept in a state that maybe stood next to presentable (it was usually when Sirius insisted on doing his nails with him. Remus liked it very much. He would disappear you quicker than James catches a snitch if you ever told anyone that.). 

When all the rings from Sirius’ fingers were securely laying in their little spot on his bed (why Sirius always demanded to do the showcasing on Remus’ bed was lost to him (he learned a long time ago to not think about Sirius’ life decisions)) he pulled his hand closer to his face.

-Your hands are really pretty.

Remus’ voice was a soft rumble as he turned his hand this and that way, observing his skin. Sirius smiled and his expression melted instantly. Damn that observant bastard. Maybe Sirius played dumb most of his life to get people to do things for him, but he was far from stupid. He had two perfectly working (and looking) eyes and he knew how to use them. Right now those eyes told him that the cold of the early autumn night got to Remus and his bones were aching. He would probably have to take out his cane soon.

-Are they? - Sirius cooed at him softly. He let Remus have this moment and enjoyed the rare softness his dear boyfriend was showing him right now. 

Remus rolled his eyes but smiled nonetheless.

-Yes, they are.

He pressed the softest kiss imaginable to Sirius’ wrist, holding his hand gently in his own trembling grip. He moved up, pressing little kisses higher and higher, over his wrist and palm. He stopped at the spot where his fingers started and turned Sirius’ hand over. He kissed his prettily pink knuckles and moved down. Around his thumb, on the back of his hand, over that one vein that always seemed to be there, nicely protruding from under his thin skin, his lips made their journey already engraved in his soul.

He tried fixing his grip on Sirius’ hand but hissed and let go completely.

-Remy? Are you okay? - Sirius’ awfully sweet voice hit his ears. There were suddenly thin fingers gripping his own in a gentle touch that made him want to weep.

-Yeah, I’m fine. Just a little achy from the cold.

They both knew it wasn't fine. The aching always started in his knuckles and then spread to his wrists, elbows and everywhere. Sirius decided one winter to knit him gloves and then have Lily, the lovely woman that she was, enchant them permanently with a warming spell. Although Remus’ hands got too big for them and the charm faded, he still always kept them in his trunk, safely tucked among his treasures.

-Well, if you say you’re fine, then you’re fine.

Remus knew Sirius wouldn’t drop it. He never did. He would find some sneaky way to make him feel better, just like he always found a way to get Remus to tell him he loved him.

-I think your hands are pretty, too. They’re the prettiest necklaces.

Sirius had a serious (no pun intended) look on his face but broke after only a second under Remus’ gaze and started giggling wildly. The sound tugged on Remus’ heart painfully. Call him a masochist, but he was happy for this pain.

-Okay, okay. But seriously, they are pretty. Because they’re yours.

Sirius started rubbing his knuckles in a completely not suspicious way. He picked up his wand, not suspicious, muttered something, also not suspicious, and tucked the wand into his bun. Remus felt heat spread over his fingers, Sirius’ rubbing only making the heat rise and melt deeper into his aching fingers.

He huffed out a breath but let Sirius do his thing, knowing how important this little ritual was to his dear boyfriend. And okay, maybe having the absolute prettiest person on the planet rubbing his aching knuckles gently while rambling about which crystals were the prettiest wasn't so bad after all. But you wouldn't catch him saying it.

And then, unfortunately for Remus’ poor heart, Sirius leaned down, held his trembling hands in his own and started pressing gentle kisses to every single knuckle on all ten of his fingers. Remus grumbled and tried pulling his hands away.

-No, Remy. Please let me. I wanna do this for you. - Sirius looked at him with the prettiest eyes in the universe and something in Remus crumbled. - If not for you, let me do it for me. I like to keep my jewelry in good shape.

He slowly relaxed his hands and let Sirius do his thing. His touch was gentle, like any pressure would cause him pain (which was actually probable, just not now. It got worse the colder it was, and during winter even holding a pen or squeezing his fingers together was just too much). The warmth seeped into his bones and spread through his body. The stress of the fool moon, annoyance over his slowly slowing down bones and anger over the whole world really, because why were there so many things that annoyed his dear boyfriend and why couldn't he fix them right now, slowly seeped away. His head started dropping and it was hard to keep his attention on Sirius.

-Hey, Remy? Let’s go to sleep. We can shower in the morning.

Remus quickly gathered Sirius into his arms and laid them both under the blankets, securely pushing Sirius’ lean body into his chest and wrapping his own long limbs around him. Right before and right after the fool moon the wolf in him would get possessive of Sirius and the only way Remus could sleep was with his painfully familiar body held in his arms. 

He sighed happily into Sirius’ lavender smelling hair (because of course Sirius would give up his painstakingly crafted hair care routine just to use the shampoo that least irritated Remus’ sensitive nose around the full moon) and squeezed him tighter. The warmth of Sirius’ body pressed into his own seemed to soothe his perpetually cold and aching limbs and slowly lulled him to a deep sleep, uninterrupted by pain or nightmares.

[pbandjesse]

Today was great but I am so tired right now. Also crazy full. I ate to much today. But it was in the pursuit of spending time with my family. And it was a really great time.

I slept alright. Deeply. And woke up at 8 the first time to see a text from my mom that they were on their way. And I went back to sleep for an hour.

I woke up for real around 9 and felt pretty good. But my hair was dirty and I was struggling with my outfit.

I would end up back in the denim dress I wore earlier this week. I tried shortening it and ended up chopping a bit extra off and I would have to hem it interestingly later on. But I for now I was ready for my parents to come!

I would run around with the vacuum and just made sure I would feel proud to show off the house. I set up the screen in the backdoor so they could have all the nice natural light. And then I waited in the studio for them to come. I would start sewing the noses on my mice plush. And after I finished the second one my mom knocked on the door.

I was so happy to see them. Dad was a little wobbly but he made it up the stairs. The door did close in his face from the air pressure of the back door being open. Oopsie.

I gave them the grand tour. We spent a lot of time in the studio showing them all my organization and the things I've made of collected. I got to brag about my tanks and the handle I am finally getting in the snails. It was great.

And they seemed so proud and excited. And best of all the seemed to really like it and all the work we've done. Dad looked at all the construction/builder details and he felt like the house was good. Mom said it feels solid. And I agree. It doesn't creek or shake or sway or anything. It is solid and quiet.

That's something they pointed out. How quiet this area seems. And it so most of the time. A few hours a day as people are coming home or gets a little noisy. But it is mostly just quiet.

We went through the whole house. I talked about my builds and diy choices and mistakes. Dad was impressed by the catio. Mom and dad thought my pressure fit screen door was very funny. We were having a great time.

About an hour after they got there we finished the tour and we all hung out on the couch and talked and it was really nice. They requested coffee and since I don't actually know how to make coffee starting from just the beans I suggested we go out.

I thought we were looking at cafe level of restaurant, mom looked at the map and suggested Broadway Diner. More meal then I was expecting but I love it there so you don't have to ask me twice.

I drove us there. But before we even got to the car we were laughing so stupid hard because Dad's leg was falling off and he almost fell over into our neighbor's car and me and mom were hysterical and we're struggling to breathe we were laughing so hard.

When we finally got dad to the car we were off and would figure out putting his leg back on once we got there.

We were miscommunicating about parking. So we had some issues giving Dad the space to put the leg on. So I moved the car to a different area and mom was able to help Dad get the leg settled. I am very surprised that it's just vacuum fit, and knowing that, I am not very surprised that it falls off. I hope they can figure something out.

Our lunch was great. But we ate to much. Mom got this stuffed French toast that tasted incredible. Dad got strawberry pancakes. It was just really nice. And it was a lot of fun talking through me and James upcoming trip. And insurance and them telling me stories about scammers and doctors and things in their lives. I was just so happy they were here. We had a nice long meal. And Dad was able to walk to the spot I parked and didn't even need me to move. Proud of him for pushing through.

I took them back towards our house but went the long way around the park so they could see how nice it is. And the kite festival was going on so the park looked so full of activity and things going on and that was just so nice. Seeing it in it's best light.

We got back to the house and I was able to park just out front. And we decided we would take an hour little rest. Which was just fine with me.

I set up our guest bed and got dad an eye mask. And they were the first ones to use the day bed all the way open and they said it was pretty comfortable so that made me feel good.

I could hear them snoring soon. I would spend that time chilling in my bed. I didn't sleep but it was nice to just scroll on my phone and be quiet.

And right before 4 we got up. Redressed. And ready to go meet James.

We did not need to eat. We were all still very full. But I wanted my parents to get to see James too. And so we made that snackrifice.

We drove in separate cars so they could jump right on the highway. And we went to little Havana.

My phone wouldn't connect to the car screen but eventually I figured out how to wedge my phone in the clock space and was able to use my GPS without much trouble.

And we got to the restaurant 15 minutes later. And James was right there!! Was so happy to see them.

I joked with the hostess about making sure we had a table on the floor and not a high top because Dad's leg could fall off.

And we got a nice seat and a really nice waitress. And James got a steak sandwich. And Dad got black bean soup and mom got crab dip and I got avocado wantons. And we would all eat about half.

Everything was so good though. I had some of Dad's soup and it was a little burning but black beans ads always boring. Salt helped. I had a few spoonfuls but I wasnt that hungry. I would end up taking most of my wontons home. I'll have them with eggs tomorrow.

We all talked and it was just nice being together. And I got James to take our picture right before they hit the road. I got big hugs and felt really happy as we said goodbye. Even though I missed them already.

Me and James had to stop at the museum for their stuff. But James would drive us home and I was happy to be there.

When we got back we got to see our neighbors as they were getting their food delivery. There was so confusion with their driver. But it was sorted out and we got inside.

We would just chill for a bit. But I would ask to hang some shelves in James's room. I would also sort out box of extra cords because I knocked it over early. But it's nice and neat now.

I wasn't able to help as much as I wanted with hanging the shelves because I couldn't reach but I helped with tools and leveling and such and James hung then and they look great. It's pretty great to see another thing come together.

We would chill and have sweets and I was entirely to full. But I was having fun and James was being so sweet and I was just really happy. I would fix the hem I cut off my dress so it has a finished edge now. And I fed the animals and cuddles Sweetp and danced with James and it was so lovely.

I would take a bath soon. I also washed my hair. And now I am clean and in bed and really happy but also super tired. So I will soon sleep.

Tomorrow is the next puhtok open house. And I'm looking forward to it. I am also hoping to stop at second chance in the morning. But we will see how I feel when I wake up. Hopefully just fill of energy.

I hope you all have a great sleep. Good night everyone!!!

[moonspirit]

Hi Moon!

I'm here for Aruani writer ask game :3

1 3 6 7 9 10 11 14

Hello Anna, and thank you for the ask ./////.

1 - Share your favorite part of your latest fic T^T A trick question! I have many little moments I love! But okay, here's one I can quickly think of, from Ch 10 of VBEOW:

Armin reaches up his free hand to brush a lock of hair away from her face as she continues to hold his gaze. Eyes like the daylight sky, that hold strength and resilience within those light blue irises. They expand into the dark pupils of night whenever they focus on him and him only.  The inside of his palm hollows to fit the gentle curve of her cheek and she leans into his touch. She keeps her eyes on his and doesn't break contact even when his thumb brushes along her delicate lower lashes. "What are you thinking?" She whispers. I want to make love to you, he thinks. Undress you, kiss you, take you high. His index finger  brushes along her upper lashes, long and beautiful, and her eyelids flutter closed.  He wants to make love to her. Give her ecstasy and pleasure and everything he has to offer. But he's so tired.

3 - If you look back at your first fic compared to your last, what's changed? This is answered over here :3

6 - Tell us about your longest fic Uh, VBEOW is... the current and only longfic xD I honestly have never written a chaptered fic before for several reasons, and I also didn't see myself doing this until 2 months ago when I thought about the sequel to TFLM and suddenly went "oh shit, I can't fit all this into a oneshot ._." And so it happened and the intro that was supposed to be 2 chapters became 7... and now I think it will extend well into the late twenties ._. All that said, I think it's the best use of my time that I've spent recently. It makes me very happy to think about, to plan, to write, and I'm glad I'm living my best life in this fic anyway xD I'm very proud of it for sure. I am also a fan of giving people a visual adventure/treat on anything I try to do, and here I've found an opportunity to do that for both the characters themselves, and for the readers.

7 - What was the inspiration behind your shortest fic? Shortest fic... would be... Falling Into Neptune at 4.6k words and it was this song: Tenno - Spirit of Life xD The song just told me to write about their first kiss in Fort Salta and to make it HOT.

9 - Which of your fics is your favorite and why? I'm sure I've already said this 329835923856 times xD But TFLM. Idk why exactly, if you asked me to point out how superior it is to VBEOW, I can't do that because it's not, and it's also not that complicated... but I guess I just really like the Fort Salta setting in general and I just fit all the magic into that last day as much as I possibly could. Also, considering it's given a great deal of inspiration for VBEOW, I'm very grateful to it :3

10 - Write about their first kiss! ... this question actually confuses me xD Because first kiss... as I've written it... or in general?? ._. But anyway, as a headcanon, I'd imagine it would be pretty awkward. With both of them secretly dying to kiss each other and also nervous as fuck; Armin will think too much, Annie will think too little - it's bound to be a little... messy, maybe? xD But they'll fall into rhythm in less than 0.5 minutes, because they're quick learners, and they're hot and awesome T//////T

11 - What annoys you the most about your own writing habits? Hm. First and foremost, the fact that I can't relax and slow down my pace. If a fic/chapter is mostly fully outlined in my head, I just can't go "Okay, i'll write this in two days" no, because I'm already itching to write it and I tend to ignore all my other responsibilities altogether xD Second is how I always second-guess my intelligence with plotlines I suppose.

14 - Tell us about a detail you wrote that nobody has commented on yet. I don't think it exists, especially not when you, in particular, pick up every detail and more xD However if we're strictly going to by "commented" I guess the only thing I can remember off the top of my head is that Kari-Armin interaction in Ch. 11 :3

Thanks very much for the ask T^T

[buckawoos]

Where you been, Buckawoos??

Howdy, y’all! Long time, no see! I sincerely apologize for falling off the face of the art community. I genuinely miss seeing everyone’s art across my feed as well as sharing it around. 💛

I haven’t put pen to tablet in several months now (Poor Shiro-4 collects dust like nobody’s business). My job is very physically demanding and the last thing I seem to want to do lately is try to draw much of anything. I’m also faced with an art block and just a general lack of want to create at the moment, though I’m convinced this is due in part to my current living situation. I’m working very hard to claw my way out of it, so I won’t divulge in those details.

There are a few things I want to go over real quick while I have a moment to write out this update! But I’ll try to put together a little TL;DR at the bottom, too!

General Life Update

Commissions, Ko-Fi, & Art Break

Where To Find Me

General Life Update

As far as I go, I’m doing well! I love what I do at me job a lot. It’s physically demanding and very hands-on, but it keeps me very active. I’ve become a lot more energized and find myself in a much more positive state of mind.

Unfortunately, because I am trying to get myself out of my current living situation, I’m working a lot and trying to scoop up hours where and when I can. This has made my presence online very scant bordering nonexistent. I’m sorry for falling out of contact with you guys, and I do very much miss you!

If all goes according to plan, by this time next year, I should be actively looking in to and applying for different living situations. Until then, I’ll most likely be very quiet across socials. When I do have a day off, the last place I want to be is home. 😅

Commissions, Ko-Fi, & Art Break

Art Break: As I talked about above, I’ve hit a block with my art, from writing to drawing, and everything in between. My muse to create was already waning before I landed this job, but now it seems to have dwindled into nothing. I have a want to draw some days, but it is largely overpowered by my chaotic surroundings. I’m just going to take a break, so there will not be any art from me for a while.

Commissions: I’m not sure if I’ve stated this somewhere, but I will not be taking art commissions in the future, when I do return to drawing. I’ve had multiple inquiries and I’m very flattered! However, my job does not allot me the required amount of time to work on owed pieces, and I also do not want to have to deal with filing freelance taxes. I’m so very sorry, though I do appreciate the interest!

Ko-Fi: I probably should have done this a while back, but with everything, it has slipped my mind; I am closing my Ko-Fi account. I recently received orders on some .PSDs and PayPal has decided that it’s going to be weird about these sudden orders. Once I have these things sorted out, I will be closing my Ko-Fi account. I just ask that nobody else please order from there! The support is wonderful, I just don’t have time to deal with PayPal. 💛

Where To Find Me

As Twitter seems a bust, I have no interest in returning to the platform. It’s been literal months since I’ve checked in, and with the way things are going with it at the moment, I’ve decided I’m not going to bother. So, where can you find me now? For the time being, here on Tumblr! More specifically? @proud-lathyrus! This is my personal Tumblr that receives some activity here and there. It is mostly games (and mostly RDR1/2), but it’s the only social media platform I check before and after work anymore.

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! And thank you for taking the time to read. I’m sorry that it’s so much - I spent a lot of time trying to get the size of this post down. Let me know how you guys are doing, too! I’ve missed the heck outta y’all!! 🥰

I hope to get things settled down sooner rather than later, but I appreciate you guys for sticking around. 💛

TL;DR: Meeno’s job leaves them tired but they’re doing alright! They’re taking a break from art, will not be reopening commissions for the indefinite future, and will soon be shutting down their Ko-Fi. If you wanna follow Meeno for more than just art, head over to @proud-lathyrus! Why is this TL;DR in third person? Meeno doesn’t know. :D

[bonesandthebees]

So part three. It’s coronation time. And it’s so satisfying to see after chapter 28. They genuinely thought they would never get to that point. They thought that it was over for them, but they made it through and here they are. And Niki even ended up being there too! Tommy might not have parents, but his entire family is so proud of him that he doesn’t need them. That’s one of the things that gets me, how proud Wilbur is of his little brother.

And then there’s the parallels yet again. Tommy being crowned in the very throne room Dream wanted to kill him in. Same with Wilbur becoming more than just the bastard prince Dream was mad existed. It’s just nice. It’s also nice because you put effort into describing the throne room in ch. 28 and now we get to see it in more detail, but we also get to see how the design and decoration are relevant to the coronation and Eldingvegr.

And then there’s the clothes. We’ve already gushed about the clothes, but I love how much effort you put into describing them. You really paint a good picture. I also want to compliment you on how you structure the descriptions. Because there’s a lot of them, but since we always switch characters with different little actions mixed in it doesn’t feel tiring to read. Which is a big thing because I tend to skip descriptions when they start getting too long, yet you always manage to keep my attention.

(1/6)

-🌲

okay finally getting around to these because it's been so long holy shit I'm so sorry my inbox is a mess rn

yes they're finally here!! after everything!! somehow they made it to tommy's coronation and wilbur is just so proud of his little brother. they have their own family now and even niki is here to see the day.

yuppp it's the same room they almost died in. now it's the room that's not only granting tommy his rightful power, but it's also where wilbur gets his new title as well. where wilbur becomes so much more than just a bastard prince.

(and I'm glad you like the descriptions of the throne room I loved adding all the details)

oh thank fucking god I get so nervous when I do super long clothing descriptions. I try to keep it varied and to mix actions in between so it doesn't get super bogged down, but I also just love describing fashion so I have a lot to say about the clothes!! I spent like an hour to two hours on pinterest finding outfit references for everyone I needed them for which was very fun, but then that left me the task of actually describing the clothes. I'd like to think I'm pretty good at it but it's definitely difficult lol

[aruuq]

Tracing Special Marks on Their Bodies – Genshin Impact Characters

characters: zhongli, kaeya, xiao x gn!reader

genre & style: mostly fluff + a bit of an angst

word count: 2.5k

notes: it’s one of my older works that i’ve never posted because i’ve been feeling it’s not good enough. yet, i still love this kaeya and i’m really proud of the way i portrayed his personality here, so here ya go

warnings: a bit angsty in kaeya’s part, mention of food

Zhongli; archon marks

It was a really long and tiring day for you. Not particularly because of the amount of work you had to do – loads of papers waiting for you to fulfill them were only the annoying, usual part of it. But the real issue lied in the fact that for the whole day you had to overcome the curiosity that was spitefully eating you up from the inside.

Waiting for your boyfriend to leave the bathroom, you were thinking how you should start the topic. Just by simply asking him without any explanation, you could shock him, but at the same time explaining everything in detail would be too much hassle. You played with the hem of your shirt, laying on your shared bed.

“Do you want something to drink?” You were so lost in the thoughts that you didn’t notice that Zhongli had already come out of the bathroom. His hair was all wet and the towel was grasped by his hand.

“No, actually… Babe, I have a question,” you sat up quickly and turned your body towards the man.

“Yes?” His eyes narrowed a little and head tilted slightly.

“Because… Today I spent the whole day in a library, searching for some stuff with Yanfei and generally doing lots of the papers she commissioned me to. And there was this one book about the law, I can’t remember the name, uhh… nevermind!” You shook your head, slapping your thighs with palms. You weren't sure why you were so stressed. “This book had illustrations. And there was the drawing. The drawing of you. And I was wondering… Even without your Gnosis… Could you, perhaps, still be able to light up your arms?” For the whole time you were speaking, you couldn't look up at him.

For a moment there was a silence between you. Zhongli was truly shocked by your question. You started to think that obsessively long explanation would be better, but then, his low voice reached your ears. “I can try it.”

“Huh?” The high-pitched squeak you made surprised even yourself.

“I said I can try it,” he repeated as he was doing circles with his left arm.

Zhongli sat on the bed right beside you. His eyes were shut, the whole face stoic, as he was focused, flexing and releasing the muscles of his arms. You were sure that you’ve never seen him this concentrated before.

“Okay, are you ready? I think I’ll manage to keep this form for a while.” He asked, stretching his arms out in front of him.

You nodded eagerly, looking forward to what was about to take place. For the first few seconds nothing happened, but suddenly, his skin began to change its colors. Starting with his fingertips, it shifted into a deep-dark color – the same as his hair – and when it reached his shoulders, the golden lines started to emerge. They were glowing brighter than the lamp placed on a small table on your right. It looked so beautiful. So surreal. Without even thinking, you brought your palm and touched your boyfriend’s hands.

“Wow,” you murmured, following with your digits all of the gleaming marks. “And you could do it like that all the time?”

Zhongli chuckled, bending and straightening his fingers that were now in the elegant yellow shade. “Yes. In addition, during a fight, they were appearing on their own.”

“So cool…” You whispered breathlessly, pressing on Zhongli’s flesh. It was much harder now, reminding all the stones and rocks he was telling you about all the time. Emitting the pleasant heat, just like a lightbulb, these marks have found a place in your heart. Ah. Surely, you were the one, to make this activity a part of your night routines from now on.

Kaeya; burnscar

“Uhhhh…” you sighed, leaning your back against the door. Trickles of cold water run down your hair and clothes straight onto an old carpet. “I haven’t had a run for a while, ya know…” Your voice was very breathy, the body nearly collapsing on the ground.

“Yeah. I did not expect it to rain,” Kaeya murmured, unsticking his wet fringe from the forehead. He also was all soaked and cold.

The sun soared in the lower parts of the sky and nothing foreshadowed a drastic change in the weather; yet, the unexpected rain interrupted your cute and lovely picnic date when you least expected it. You left the meadow in a hurry and went straight to your house.

“Gimme a minute. Gonna grab you a towel,” you said as soon as your breathing calmed down, taking off your shoes, while you passed Kaeya and went to the bathroom. “Make yourself comfortable, there’s no one in the house. You can go to my room, it’s the door on your right!” You exclaimed, rummaging through the cabinets.

“Thanks,” you heard his response preceded by a loud squeaking of the hinges.

Rummaging the lockers took you longer than you expected at the beginning. It’s the high time to finally do some cleanups.

“As if out of spite, I couldn’t find any bigger towel, sorry,” murmuring, you enter your room. “I hope this one will be fi-” you cut off as you gulp.

Kaeya’s slender fingers were holding a lamp next to his face, soft light illuminating his handsome face and neck, a little of the brightness reaching his bare chest. You blinked one, two, three times. Maybe you were just seeing things.

“It’s perfect. I’m beholden, my love,” he answered as he laid the lamp on the small bedside table. Now you were sure that you saw it right. Kaeya was standing in your room. Shirtless. Warm light brightening his toned stomach and chest. You swallowed again and the man seemed to notice it. “My apologies, this wet shirt started to annoy me. I hope it doesn’t bother you.”

“Oh… Ohhh, n-no, don’t worry!” You shook your head as soon as you realized that you were shamelessly staring him down the whole time.

But you couldn’t just simply stop looking. Since your relationship was really fresh, it was the first time you saw your boyfriend without any shirt. In addition you were alone in your house. In your room. Next to the bed. The thoughts were just coming into your head by themselves. Or it was something else that caught your attention…

“You have a scar,” you said thoughtlessly, pointing your finger at it just like a child.

“Oh, yeah,” Kaeya seemed more startled than you. “I, indeed, have a scar,” he chuckled, caressing his waist where the scar was located.

“Can I touch it?” Curiosity definitely dimmed your common sense.

“I am surprised by your boldness, but sure,” the moment he says it, his digits take your hand and guide it towards this mark.

Your fingertips touch it. It is uneven, very weird in texture. The area of the healed wound spreads from the left side of his waist, goes towards his heart, overlapping his ribs a little. It’s big. Nuzzling its whole area with your palm, caressing it lightly, you smile.

“Whoah. Being the Cavalry Captain must be harsh if these are the consequences, huh?” You joke, shifting your gaze to Kaeya’s face.

“Yeah. Sometimes you need to fight scary monsters if you want to come out alive at the end of a day,” he smirks, pressing your hand harder into his skin.

“Is it a burn scar? Did you fight a whole herd of pyro slimes? Or a hellhound perhaps?” You continue, hoping the man will tell you the story behind this mark.

“I would rather say it was a phoenix, my love.” He says after a few seconds of consideration. “A very dangerous one, as a matter of fact.” Kaeya was observing you, analyzing your gestures, your behavior, the tone of your voice and the way you were speaking. He seemed so effortlessly focused it was shocking.

“Tell me more,” you whispered, drowning in the warmth of his body. You were freezing and you knew that you should have dried yourselves before starting a conversation, but you were too invested to stop now.

“The wound this scar comes from has been inflicted on me on a very similar day as it is today. Storm was raging outside the windows and lightning cut the sky into halves.”

“This phoenix must have been really skilled if he could harm you. Especially if it was raining like this,” your fingers were still touching this awful mark. It started to be addicting in some way.

“Don’t flatter me so much, I am a human too,” he jokes, finally taking your hand away from his scar, intertwining your fingers.

“So next time take me to one of your fights. I’m sure I will save you,” a very loud thunder deafens your laugh.

“I will. But remember, my love, there are some monsters that you can defeat only by yourself.” He pressed your knuckles against his lips, kissing them softly. “And now you should go and change your clothes. I don’t want you to catch a cold, especially in the middle of summer.”

You nod as you give his cheek a quick peck. You felt as if the man just wanted to stay in your room alone for a bit, but you quickly brushed it off. It was Kaeya after all. Trying to figure his actions out was pointless; when he wanted to hide something, he always succeeded in it. Overthinking it was just meaningless.

You tell him, you will be back in a moment and close the door. Another roar of the storm is heard as Kaeya sits on your bed, touching the mark, knowing perfectly that it will stay there till the day he dies.

Xiao; tattoos

Clatter of dishes, numerous conversations, shuffling shoes and soft music played by a musician passing by – the sounds were filling the small dining room of the Wangshu Inn. It was a very busy day for the personnel and you and your boyfriend were waiting for a long time for your meal. It was understandable so you two tried not to complain and enjoy your day off – but it started to be harder with the amount of people bumping by accident into your table, the loud laughter of the drunkards reaching your ears and random guests asking you if they could sit with you, because there’s no empty seats left. You were a bit lucky anyway, because your desk was placed on the terrace, next to the railing, so it wasn’t the most crowded place in the whole restaurant.

“We should leave,” Xiao complained, slouching in his seat. He didn’t try to hide how uncomfortable he felt because of the hordes of people around him.

“Not until we eat. I’m hungry,” you murmured, tapping with matching fingers each of the Yaksha’s knuckles. “Maybe you don’t have to eat very often, but I have to. And I listen to my body that is craving for a one, single juicy meal,” you joke, pinching his nose.

“Fine.” he muttered under his breath, hiding his face in the crook of his elbow on the surface of the table. “But all these mortals around…”

“You need to get used to this. We must catch up with your two thousand years of inexperience!” You looked around, hoping a waiter was somewhere to be seen with your meals.

“Mmmmhmm…” he grunted, following with his pupils the motion of your hand.

Your fingers were wandering all over the top of his palm, tickling his not used to most sort of touches skin, causing his cheek to heat up. He was fine with your acts of tenderness when you were alone – at least he tried to be. But in public it was a totally different topic. Xiao felt bashful.

Lost in his thoughts, he started to move with his hand, testing if you would notice his small movements. It wasn’t really much. But he still tried to be more welcoming and open to your acts of kindness. It was really important to him that he was conveying your feelings in his own way.

“Ohh! Y/N!” The sudden shout made Xiao shudder. The man freed his hand from your grip and sat up straight, looking in the crowd for the person who said your precious name.

“Oh Archons, hi! C’mere!” You shout, waving in a direction from which the voice came from.

Xiao was even more confused when a boy he’s never seen before approached you two and immediately hugged you. His eyes widened and muscles tensed.

“Xiao! I think you’ve never had the occasion to meet. This is my friend I worked with for a long time in the Adventurer’s Guild,” you smile, leading Yaksha’s palm to shake the boy’s hand. “And this is my beloved boyfriend, Xiao,” you pull his arm, hugging it tightly to your chest.

Oh, what a tragic but alluring way to end a life. Xiao felt as if his heart was about to leave his chest, pounding so hard and so loud. He was a blushing mess. His ears were deaf for your words; he was just tracking the motion of your lips that seemed to be casting a whole bunch of spells, incomprehensible for his fuzzy brain.

While your left forearm was holding his right arm hostage, your right hand was doing all sorts of bad things. Fingers wandering around his tattoo, tickling his nerves and making him melt in the caress. It was embarrassing. The way Xiao reacted to your touch, to your sly fingertips, trailing the green marks. But he knew that he couldn’t resist that so he just tried to enjoy this moment.

It was a bit ironic. The gentle way you were treating the marks that spoke about his past, his origin and the true form that he abandoned a long time ago. They were all soaked with guilt, the weight of his sins deeply rooted in them, weighting on his shoulder. Yet you still acted as if they were his dear treasure, stroking them and playing unwittingly with their shape, admiring their beauty. You changed his point of view of them; made him even be proud of them in some way. Nevertheless sometimes you seemed to like them a little too much, making your boyfriend all flushed due to your actions.

“What?” You smile, raising an eyebrow. Xiao’s been staring at you without a word for way too many seconds after your friend left. “Why are you looking at me like that? You didn’t like him?”

“You’re a hassle,” he stuttered, standing up. “No respect for Adepti.”

“Where’re you going?” You knew that you should be more concerned, based on the fact that your boyfriend was crouching on the railing, but the obvious flustered look and a terrible blush on his cheeks told you everything you had to know. He started rubbing his arm furiously all over his tattoo, trying to get rid of this addictive and lingering feeling of your touch on his skin.

“Yaksha’s duty calls.” He turns away and jumps off the building.

You just laugh, placing your hands over your mouth in a tube. “I’ll take your portion of almond tofu to our room!”

Sometimes Xiao acts like a shy teenager in love.

[xmemeanonx]

Hey - I love your platonic yandere Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman stuff! Will you write more?

Of course! Here you are!

= = =

Fun dad Clark, with strict mom Diana and strict dad Bruce are a force to be reckoned with.

In the beginning, the three of them struggled with the idea of sharing you, let alone putting it into practice. But as they spent more and more time with you as a group, outside of the fighting and being a hero, the more they saw just how much of a family they naturally acted as, especially when they were with you.

And you? My god, aren’t you just so special? They certainly think so. You know when you were a kid, and you’d draw something that was essential was just a pile of scribbles and globes of colours? And you’re parents still called it phenomenal and put it up on the fridge? Yeah, that’s them with literally anything you do.

You could sneeze and they just be like: 💕❤️💕💕❤️💕💕❤️🥺🥺🥺🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰❤️❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕💕❤️💕

(Clark especially)

I’m sure if they weren’t yandere for you, they still would absolutely adore you.

Diana would call you my dove, little bird, and little one.

Clark would call you kiddo, squirt, and different renditions if your name.

Bruce would just call you by you name. Heheh sorry.

He tried calling you kid one time,,,, just didn’t sound right coming from him

Unfortunately, as intelligent, clever, and cunning the three of these heroes are, they are a mess when you’re involved. They want your attention for themselves constantly, and you barely have any time for yourself.

They all have different ways of captivating your attention too:

Clark is an amazing playmate. He still has a childlike glow around him, and he certainly has the energy for it. Your mornings often times belong to Clark. Any hobbies you enjoy, he now finds fascinating. He’s the stereotypical suburban dad when it comes to his kid. He’s the dad in the crowd who always claps the hardest when his kid comes on stage during a play, or makes a home run during a game. His kid, in his eyes, is the sun. His kid outshines anyone on earth, making anyone practically unworthy of even looking at his kid, let alone interact with them.

Diana is a fantastic storyteller. She has lived many lives and will tell you about them all in such visceral detail, almost to the point were you feel as though you were there. You find that your afternoons and evenings almost always belong to Diana and her soothing, yet powerful voice. Whether that voice be spinning out a tale of her hunting beasts one hundred times her size, or barking out orders, teaching you how to kill such monsters, you always enjoy your time with Diana. You two drink tea near the end of your time together, and Diana always tells you how proud of you she is.

Bruce is a terrific teacher. You nights always belong to him. He is the worlds greatest detective, the owner of Wayne enterprises, and he is Batman. It is almost hard think of something Bruce doesn’t know. He has done bad things, and has let people he loves down. But, Bruce adores you. He will never make the same mistake again, especially with you. So, he teaches you to be a better person than he is. to makes things that help people. He is great, and he wants you to be greater. So he pushes you. In the beginning they’re small, curt taps. But they quickly evolve into violent shoves that shake your world. Yours shoulders hurt, but he tells you to keep on going, he tell you that you can do it. And you believe it, but how long can you go until you can’t just brush off the pain?

You find yourself often burnt out and tired by the end of the day, even more so if you’re a hero. Your bones ache and yours eyes are tired. You may feel unsatisfied if you hate being with them, but what does it matter? You know that you’ll have to to do it all again tomorrow.

They aren’t cruel, especially when it comes to the others choices. If Clark is being too delusional, Diana and Bruce will step in. And vice versa. They love you, you’re their kid, together you’re a family.

If this isn’t something that you want, too bad it would be best to keep that quiet, especially if you didn’t have powers. You could try and escape, but I wouldn’t recommend it.

Life with them isn’t so bad tbh. You live in the beautiful structure of Wayne manor, you have three loving captors parents, and anybody who may have been giving you trouble is probably dead. Also your parents might be dead too idk.

Also, the three of them have agreed that Diana is the one that lays out punishment, with Bruce and Clark giving their ideas and thoughts. Which would add to a whole new level of fear when it comes to upsetting them.

They are unit, through and through. But with you they can feel like a family. Or at least convince themselves they do.

[zhivaoverdrive]

Visit https://linktr.ee/zhiva_overdrive for Implant & Body Modifications morphs captions and stories. ---- "Surely am! Don't look like a taxi do I? The name is Dara, now are we going to get you to the Implant Expander Clinic or what?" - Dara ----

She'd said yes immediately, without a second thought. When the magazine said jump, Dara said how high. But that wasn't all, not this time.

"Airport pickup? Sure. What's a bigwig doing out here?" she said into the phone. Dara looked into the mirror as she spoke, trying on a few expressions that might win her some points. Dara may not have been a covergirl yet, but she was a smokeshow and she knew it. Pulling her shirt a little lower, she smiled at brand new breasts that greeted her. Might be my moment, she thought.

"Not exactly a bigwig... listen we're trying to keep this under wraps. Will you pick her up or not?" said the voice on the phone, after a long pause.

Dara stopped dead in her tracks. A HER from the magazine. Travelling here... Now that *is* interesting. Some careful prying won't hurt.

"You got it, my lips are sealed! When and where? Staying in the Ritz like normal?" she said. Still in front of the mirror, Dara tried to remove all traces of curiosity from her voice and face.

"... no, not a hotel. Look I'll send you the flight details, then take her where she's going. Keep it quiet and we'll owe you one, you and the car in the next issue, guaranteed." the voice on the phone said, the finality of the statement quite clear. It's her. Has to be. Dara said her pleasantries and hung up the phone, mind racing.

She was no fool. Everyone knows what is in this city; hell, she'd recently visited the clinic herself. A woman from the magazine, coming here and not staying in a hotel. There could be no mistaking it.

And if it was just any woman she'd get a taxi... They want it under wraps, so it MUST be her.

Dara walked to her garage and opened the door, eyes landing on her pride and joy. It wasn't exactly the right tool for the job. Would she even fit? Sliding the front passenger seat forward, Dara felt a pang of excitement run through her body as she gazed at the back seats, still unsure if they would accommodate her fare.

Natasha changed everything. She's about to sit in this car...

Dara stepped out and tenderly ran her hand down the A pillar. We're going to make an impression aren't we. ---

She was tired, she was hot, she was ready to not be in an airport. The performative charade of her departure from the plane had seemed fun at first, but hiding under a blanket in the tropical sun had quickly soured that adventure.

Had this trip been for any other reason, Natasha would not put up with these indecencies. I guess I've made my bed here... she thought.

One way or the other, she needed to get back to the IEC. Inside, she'd known that quite a long time ago. It was hard to tell precisely when she'd crossed the threshold, gone beyond the pale, but it had happened. The week she'd spent locked in her room with the saline pumps running? Perhaps it was then...

Finally out of the terminal, away from her 'security escort', Natasha looked around a quiet parking lot. Tossing her blankets of decency aside, she began a careful walk, searching for some sign of her ride. Like the plane, she'd been assured that everything had been organised. If they'd managed to sneak her into the crew of a commercial flight, surely they can book a big taxi...

Rounding a corner, Natasha's eyes fell on the first living person she'd seen in the car park so far. Suddenly wishing for the blanket, she smiled meekly and continued her cautious gait.

"Natasha! You're not planning to *walk* there are you?" said the stranger.

Natasha did a double take. The stranger was squatting down in front of a striking white car. She wore a leather jacket and skirt, both of which did very little to conceal her curves. The skirt rode up revealing a quite clearly artificial ass, not to mention the proud implants protruding from her open jacket.

Who am I to judge, Natasha laughed to herself, as her scantily clad form was not a beacon of modesty. She felt her confidence coming back. This was more like it. No more hiding.

Taking the final steps with care, Natasha approached the crouching stranger. "You're from the magazine, I take it?" she said, bending forward to meet the strangers gaze. The move threatened to fold her spine in half, but seeing the sass begin to fade from the stranger's face told her that it was worth the pain. But the stranger recovered quickly. "Surely am! Don't look like a taxi do I? The name is Dara, now are we going to get you to the Implant Expander Clinic or what?"

This whole trip had been nothing but secrecy, cloak and dagger. Tash was about to let out a scowl, but caught herself. There was something about Dara that she liked.

[tteokggukk]

waiting game → jjk | ✏️ eighteen: back to square one

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It’s been over a year since you last visited his place.

The last time you were here, Jungkook was just minutes away from turning of age. Both of you were equally nervous at the time—him being tense about the hint for the soulmate mark that was supposed to appear, and you feeling frantic over finally confessing your feelings for him. By the end of the night though, neither ended well: Jungkook found no mark and you were later on rejected by him, and since that incident you swore you’d never come back to this place, that you wanted nothing to do with him, and that you’d stop all contact and cut him out of your life.

And yet here you were, back at Jungkook’s apartment.

It’s funny, you thought for sure being back here would bring back that miserable and embarrassing night, but instead you were hit with a wave of nostalgia and a certain warmth in your chest that you haven’t felt in a while. Before anything else, this place has always been your safe space, and the stronger memories of you being happy here definitely outweighed that one horrible night.

Looking around, you found yourself amused with how little has changed— the collection of speakers he had were still kept on the same shelves, his collection of blank canvases that were stacked up on one side of the room, and the old frames of your pictures together were still hung up on his wall. A smile crept up on your lips as you walked slowly, staring at each frame carefully and recalling each event preserved in those shots.

Somehow, although he was only footsteps away in his kitchen cooking up ramen for you two to share, you missed him.

Even though you and Jungkook were slowly patching things up and going back to the way things used to be, it still doesn’t change the fact that a long time has passed since you two had been left alone together in close quarters. Sure, you two were talking a lot more now and you both have gone out together, but conversations held through texts and hangouts held in public were far more different than spending time indoors with just the two of you.

Minutes later, Jungkook came back holding a tray with two bowls and a potful of ramen. As he sets the tray down in front of you for you two to share, you felt your phone buzzing endlessly in your pocket. Not even seconds later, Jungkook’s own phone starts buzzing continuously.

For the vast majority of the time, you both spent the hours talking about your plans for the showcase with only minor attempts at small talk and jokes. As expected, your conversations were filled with nervous laughter and a few awkward silences, but at least you two had more progress with your plans. You tried practicing a few songs together, but eventually you both agreed that none of the songs you had done so far made enough impact. When you ran out of ideas, Jungkook proceeded to make more lists of song suggestions for your performance, and when he ran out of ideas, you went ahead and made your own lists.

Two hours later, you had about twenty lists—all of which were made to avoid more small talk.

Jungkook stared at the lists scattered all over his coffee table without blinking. You were sprawled out on his couch while he was slumping on the floor, his back against the couch. You were both clearly burnt out with twenty lists but still zero choices. He lets out a sigh and shakes his head, catching your attention.

“Are you hungry?” Jungkook shifts his gaze from the papers to you, his bright, doe-eyes meeting your tired ones.

“Kind of,” You sat up straight and hugged your knees, “Are you?”

“Yeah.” Jungkook stands up from the floor, dusting off the back of his pants as he got up, a joking smile on his face, “Do you wanna eat some ramen?”

You couldn’t help but let out a small laugh. You just had ramen with him two hours ago, and he had six cups of ramen while he stayed up with you last night. How much ramen could this boy actually eat? “I’m sorry, Hoseok told me to say no when a guy asks me that,” You joked, faking a sad expression on your face.

Jungkook raises a brow and flops himself on the couch to sit across from you, crossing his arms, “You didn’t say no to me last night.”

“Well now I am.”

“That’s not fair,” Jungkook’s let’s out a laugh, causing his body to lean forward as before turning himself to face you, “Ramen’s all I have.”

“Why am I not surprised?” You shook your head, your eyes crinkling as you laughed. You couldn’t see it, but the sight of your laughter brought out Jungkook’s adoring stare. Feeling proud of himself, it felt like a big achievement getting you to laugh like that for the first time tonight, as if he had just broken an invisible barrier between you two. He missed all of it—he missed the sound of your laugh, being able to get close to you, hanging out with you like this. Just like the old times.

Jungkook smiles and looks away, afraid you’d catch him staring at you before getting off the couch, “I’m kidding. Of course I’ve got other food.”

“You do?” You asked tauntingly.

“Of course I do, I’m friends with Jin. Come on, let’s go have dinner.”

Without a moment’s thought, Jungkook holds his hand out to take yours. The moment your hands meet, a heavy beat begins drumming in your ears, taking you a second to realize that it was the sound of your own heart that you could hear as it did several leaps in your chest. While Jungkook led you to his kitchen where you two decided to cook something up together, you tried your best not to seem at all fazed as you kept a neutral face. When he eventually had to let go of your hand, a part of you wanted to hold onto that warmth, but you tried to push the thought away.

Although you initially came over to talk about what your plans were for the showcase, it now seems as if you two had no further plans to discuss anything. It was already eleven at night, but neither of you appeared to be aware of it as you were cuddled up underneath the sheets while watching old reruns of a TV show you and Jungkook both loved. You had no idea how you ended up lying this close next to him—there must’ve been something in the food he had cooked up that somehow made you two lose any form of awkwardness between each other. Jungkook had to thank Jin later for the recipe.

“Look, it’s the part where they’re trying to pivot the couch,” Jungkook laughs as he points to the screen, his hand squeezing on your shoulder to get your attention while your head rested on his arm.

You didn’t bother to look. It was a scene you’d already watched countless times to cheer you up months ago. Instead, you looked up to see Jungkook, his face illuminated by the light coming from the television and a table lamp. You could feel his chest vibrating while he laughed, your temple resting on him made it easy for his deep chuckle to send vibrations through you. From where you were, his lashes looked much longer. His eyes were all crinkled from laughing and his mouth was curled up, showcasing the mole underneath his lips. The proximity between you two was so close, the scent of his freshly laundered clothes was enough to embrace you.

He’s so pretty.

He was all you wanted to stare at, but your eyes were beginning to betray you as you felt your own lids getting heavier and heavier. Staying up last night was a terrible idea after all, and though you wanted to stay up longer to be here with him, your body couldn’t help but melt into the soft mattress. Jungkook’s arm around you wasn’t helping you to fight the urge to stay up, either.

It took a while for Jungkook to hear it, but later on he began to notice the sound of soft snores next to him, only for him to find you all dozed off on his arm. Nervously, he debated whether or not he should get his arm off and wake you up to bring you home. But, as he mentally went back and forth trying to decide on what he should do, he instead found himself studying your features and smiling to himself at the sight of how peaceful you looked.

It would be a crime to disrupt your sleep, he thought.

Tucking strands of your hair behind your ear, he let himself have a few moments to cherish the little details on your face before turning the television off and slowly covering you two with a blanket.

-

You were having such a good night’s rest, until you tried shifting your position as you slept—on your waist was a slight weight that held you close and left you unable to move.

As your eyes adjusted to the dim light of the room, all you could see was Jungkook sleeping soundly in front of you. Trying to ignore the dangerously erratic beating in your chest, you attempted to level your breathing so as to not wake him up. All the tiredness you had felt earlier were all gone now, you were fully aware of Jungkook’s face just being several inches from yours while his arms kept you close in front of him.

You couldn’t lie, there was a small urge to caress his cheek until you heard the sound of your phone buzzing from behind you. Carefully, you reached out for your phone which thankfully was only inches away from your head.

Was it actually 3am?

“Who is it?”

The sound of Jungkook’s sleep-filled voice causes you to freeze, making you drop your phone on your face.

“Oh shoot, sorry,” He apologizes, bringing his palm to your cheek in an attempt to soothe the minor pain caused by the drop of your phone screen, “Didn’t mean to surprise you.”

“I’m okay, did I wake you?” You asked softly, noticing how his eyes were still squinted as he tried to open them fully.

“No, don’t worry,” Jungkook grins sleepily, “What time is it?”

“It’s 3am,” You told him.

“Oh.”

Reality began sinking in as you realized you were still here and it was this late. You knew he was too nice to wake you up, which is probably why you were still at his place. You began to mentally prepare yourself saying goodbye to him at this hour. Expecting Jungkook to get up, he moves the arm resting on top of you, setting you free from his being held into his arms. You tried to shift to the other side of the bed to get off, but Jungkook reaches for the lamp instead of getting up.

“Want me to turn this lamp off?” He asks, “I didn’t turn it off earlier in case you woke up and needed it.”

“What?” Your eyes narrow as you look back at him over your shoulder.

“What are you doing? Come back,” He almost pouts. His voice was too raspy for your own good, you knew you would do about anything he asked you to right now. He could even ask you to clean his bathroom at this hour and you’d probably do it.

Jungkook, probably half-awake, places his hand on your waist. This prompts you to move closer to him and back to your old position where you were facing him. He hums to himself when he’s got his arms wrapped around you again, but you tried to knock some sense into him.

“Jungkook, it’s late,” You whispered.

“I know,” he hums, his eyes almost shut.

“I should leave.”

Now his eyes were wide open. He lets out a small sigh as he finally meets your gaze, “Do you actually think I’m going to let you leave at this hour?”

“I don’t wanna inconvenience you or anything—“

“You never do. what would inconvenience me is you losing sleep when you could be resting right now,” He tells you softly as he closes his eyes. You don’t say anything, only staring at him as you were at a loss for words. When he doesn’t hear anything from you or feel your body relax so you could go back to rest, he extends his arms towards you to bring you closer to him.

“Just go to sleep. I’ll drive you home first thing in the morning if you really wanna go home,” he says, finally shutting his eyes. It takes you a second before you finally give in and bring your arms around him. Smiling to yourself, you snuggle your face into his chest and silently pray he doesn’t feel the heat building up on your cheeks. Once he was sure you’ve relaxed, Jungkook turns off the lamp and brings his hand to gently stroke your hair, only going back to sleep once he hears your soft and peaceful snores again.

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– fic type: social media au, soulmates au

– pairing: jungkook x reader

– genre: ex-friends to lovers, humor, crack, fluff, angst, slow burn

– warnings: explicit language

SYNOPSIS: in a world where everyone finds a unique connection to their soulmate once they turn of age, y/n can’t seem to figure out her clue. after desperately staying up all night to find one, y/n decides to rest and write down her list of groceries on her arm, ultimately giving up on finding a clue along with the whole idea of soulmates. that is, until jungkook wakes up to a whole list of poorly written ingredients scribbled all over his own arm.

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[the-insomniac-emporium]

Slumbering Hearts (Alcina Dimitrescu/Reader, Soulmate AU) Pt. 2

Fandom: Resident Evil: Village Rating: T for language Warnings: None Summary: In a wicked twist of fate, you find out your soulmate is none other than your employer, Lady Dimitrescu. To your misery, she (at first) seems equally displeased, her heart already belonging to another. But in time, the two of you find yourselves wondering… could the universe be right, after all? Soulmate AU in which every person has a unique “soul mark”, which they share with their soulmate. Notes: Reader gets a bit of a backstory here, with just enough concrete details to serve the plot in future chapters. Hopefully enough is kept vague for people to enjoy it. Now... Time to meet your new kids-in-law/the gremlins :) Previous Chapters: 1: In The Shadow Of Giants

2: Uncertain Destinations

“You already know my name, as well as my fate, and I have neither threats nor demands to make of you. I am at your mercy, regrettably, with nothing more to say. Shall we consider ourselves ‘introduced’? Or is there more you wish to ask of me?” You wonder, eying ‘Alcina’ with a bored expression. It felt odd to refer to her that way, even within the confines of your mind. She had been ‘Lady Dimitrescu’ for as long as you could remember; starting with your years in the village, and continuing through your months here at the castle. One day, perhaps, you would grow used to calling her by her first name. For now, you simply hoped to focus on other matters.

“Tell me of yourself, your past. Who were you before you came here?” Alcina asks, surprising you. What did it matter, now that you were stuck here? At first you shrug, avoiding eye contact, not wanting to open yourself up to her. But before long she’s placed a hand on your shoulder, applying just enough pressure to encourage you to speak. You win this round, you think.

“Somehow I doubt you’ll find it terribly interesting. I was born in the outskirts of the village, on a small farm, just like any other. I had a pet dog, went to ‘school’ with my neighbors, and spent my weekends volunteering with the church. The only thing you might not expect is that I lived outside the village for about a decade. Traveled for a while, never really staying anywhere for terribly long. Eventually, I got tired, and so I came back to help my parents with what little property they had left,” you explain, quietly. Being vague had been intentional, considering the nature of a few details. Did she need to know why you had left? Or that you had once revered Mother Miranda?... No, because if she learned that, it would not be long before she learned that you had changed your mind years ago. Something told you that she wouldn’t appreciate your lack of faith in her mistress. “That was six months ago, roughly. Barely got to spend time with my parents before I was ‘donated’ to the staff here.”

“Not many ever leave the village. Those that do rarely, if ever, return. How particular,” Alcina replies, giving a soft hum. There’s something in her expression that tells you she’ll eventually ask you to elaborate. For now, however, she seems content to move on. Internally you sigh in relief. “I suppose this is sufficient to sate my curiosity, for the time being. Now come with me, I’d like to introduce you to my daughters, to ensure that they understand you are… off limits.” With that said she stands, once more reminding you just how small and fragile you are in comparison, before heading towards the exit. You’re nearly forced to jog in order to keep up with her long strides. As she leads you through hallways, down a flight of stairs, and past several nervous looking maidens, she slows down the slightest bit, having eventually noticed your struggle. Admittedly, that’s more kindness than you would have anticipated. Perhaps she was used to adjusting her pace for her daughters?

Whatever the reason, you do appreciate it. Still, by the time you arrive at your destination, the castle’s library, your legs are feeling the smallest bit sore. Brushing off the ache, you follow Alcina inside. Then you’re taking in the sights, having not been here before, admiring the impressive collection. Glad I’m not responsible for cleaning this place, you think as you pass by dozens of filled shelves. Before long you encounter the three daughters. They’re sitting in a semi-circle, each with their own book, though they’re quick to sit up once they spy their mother. One by one they’re smiling up at her, not even sparing you a moment’s glance. Admittedly you’re glad for that. What good could come from their attention, especially when they don’t yet know who you ‘truly’ are?

“I’m glad to see you’re all in one place, my darlings. There has been a… development, of sorts,” Alcina says, speaking in the same tone one might use to address a faculty meeting. In a less intimidating household, it would have been much harder to hold in a laugh. Was this always how she spoke to her children? For their sake, you hoped not (though the concept was amusing). Regardless, it is at this point that the daughters notice you, with one of them looking intrigued enough to send a shiver down your spine. You’re pretty sure her name is Daniela, being the only one you haven’t met before today. A toothy grin spreads on her lips, and once you make eye contact you swear that she winks at you. This literally could not be any worse, you think, unable to stop yourself from frowning.

“Does it have to do with this little thing?” Daniela purrs, taking a step towards you. Instantly both Alcina and yourself are tensing up. While your soulmate shifts in front of you, an incredibly faint rosy tint to her cheeks, all you can do is pinch the bridge of your nose between two fingers.

“This ‘little thing’ is not your newest playtoy, Daniela. Rather, they are my-” she hesitates, disliking the way the word feels in her mouth- “soulmate. I expect the three of you to behave, understood? At the very most, you are allowed to prevent them from leaving the premises, but even then I expect you to remain gentle. Have I made myself clear?” Alcina asks. Now she’s not the only one blushing, as Daniela looks so embarrassed that you wonder if she’ll pass out. Maybe now you’ll think twice about flirting with everyone you meet, you think, remembering the various rumors you’ve heard about her. For a moment, part of you imagines what your relationship with her would look like, were you to continue ‘courting’ her mother. Could this be a moment you could torment her with for life? Get some cheeky revenge for all the maidens who couldn’t risk it? A lovely thought, though one soon interrupted.

“Of course, mother. We will not lay a single finger on them, unless we have no other choice. Right, sisters?” Bela replies, turning to her siblings with an expectant look. Neither of them seem terribly pleased, but they nod, each giving their own verbal affirmations. All three spend a few moments glancing you over, reevaluating you now that they know who you are, appraising your worth. It’s not hard to imagine that they all find you lacking- at least in comparison to their mother. “Are introductions in order? We’ve met before, but I hardly know anything about them. It would be… nice to properly meet the newest edition to our family.” The way Bela says the words makes you nervous, and the way Cassandra grins only worsens the feeling.

“If you desire such, I see no reason to forgo such a thing. Perhaps the three of you could give them a tour? I must return to my duties, and I doubt they have seen much of the castle, given their… former occupation,” Alcina admits, softly. Was this a confirmation that you’d no longer have to spend every day working yourself to the bone? On one hand you were somewhat relieved, but you also regretted the possible loss of your preferred coping method. Worse, were you really going to spend who knows how long with the dreaded Dimitrescu daughters? They were going to rip you to shreds, at least verbally, you were sure of it. How could you ever meet their expectations? If they were anything like their mother, you would never be enough to satisfy them. Or at least that is what you assumed.

“I’ve seen a fair bit,” you interject, awkwardly, hating the way it brings everyone’s gaze back to you. Alcina’s lips twitch, as she fights back a frown. Evidently she didn’t appreciate you countering her suggestion.

“Please, we insist,” Bela fires back, a pleasant tone covering her thinly-veiled animosity. “I’m sure we’ll have a wonderful time getting to know each other. You do want to learn more about your soulmate’s children, don’t you?” Something about the way she speaks makes you want to laugh. When you smile back at her, it’s without a hint of any placating intentions, rather a dewdrop of mischief. Bold of her to assume that you wanted to make her mother happy. After all, it was clear from her phrasing that this was a ‘test’, a ruse to ‘reveal your true colors’ to Alcina. But you were as uneasy about your part in this as Bela was, neither of you finding yourself a suitable match for Alcina. Despite the way she narrows her eyes at you, her mother is smiling again, glad that she had a way to keep you occupied for the time being.

“It’s settled then,” she says, moving to give each of her daughters a kiss on top of their heads. They giggle at the affection, looking rather proud of themselves. Then she turns to you, hesitating, clearly having the instinct to give you a kiss as well. Half of you wants to stand on your tippy-toes, expectantly, wondering if she’d do it (and how flustered it would make her). Instead, you pretend not to notice, accepting the awkward shoulder pat she ends up giving you. “I will see you this evening, for dinner. Do try to enjoy yourself. But don’t forget-” she leans in until her mouth is right next to your ear, breath tickling your neck- “behave yourself. I will not tolerate any tomfoolery, understood?” Alcina does not pull away until you’ve nodded, and you do not relax until the library door has shut behind her.

Except now you’re alone with her daughters. Wonderful.

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

Dealing with finances was not, to put it simply, Alcina’s ‘favorite’ activity. Although she employed someone to handle the majority of the paperwork, she made sure to go over it herself to ensure accuracy. There were many aspects to her business, being both legitimate and illegitimate, technically. One could never be too careful about their records. After all, failing to file tax returns had taken down Al Capone, of all people. Who was to say that such a mistake, or one in a similar vein, could not damage House Dimitrescu? Certainly it wouldn’t be enough to ruin them entirely, but it could lead to certain ‘nuisances’ bothering the village. At the end of the day, Alcina cared more about the impact it would have on Mother Miranda than anything else, even the possible decline of her household.

A nasty habit, really. Few knew the extent of her self-entitled devotion to the cult leader. The only bond that ran deeper was that she had with her daughters, who meant more to her than she could ever vocalize. Even then, she viewed them as a gift from Miranda, which in turn strengthened her love for the woman. Now that love leaked into everything she did. With a flourish of her pen, she signed away some of this month’s earnings. So what if she already ‘donated��� a large portion of her income to the village and its leader? Certainly this was a way to show the level of her devotion? Certainly Miranda would take notice, eventually? Praise her for it? Take Alcina’s hand in her own, thumb caressing her skin, eyes filled with a long-sought affection?...

The sound of passing footsteps brings her back into the moment, and Alcina stares down at the mountain of paperwork she’d yet to approve. With a deep sigh she readjusts her reading glasses, sets the finished document aside, then gets back to work. A part of her mind soon starts to drift to other subjects. To you, primarily. Would your affection be easier to gain? Steadier?... But could it, in any way, compare to Miranda’s? No matter how she tries to brush the thoughts away, they nip at her heels, circling her head like vultures. Only time would give her the relief she so desperately sought.

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

“So, don’t tell me you really think you’re my mother’s soulmate, right?” Cassandra says, somewhat grumbling, as you trail behind Bela. It’s less than five minutes into the tour, with the siblings having behaved so far, focused on actually showing you around. At her words, both her sisters started walking slower. Their gazes were still locked ahead of themselves. The way they positioned themselves, however, made it clear that they were listening. “Is it some elaborate scheme, hmm? Did you spend a dozen hours with the other servants, noting every last detail about her soul mark, before copying it? Do you really think that you’ll get away with this?” Well, ‘twas good to know who the most paranoid of the three were.

“Ah, yes, it’s all a great, horrible ruse. You’ve caught me red-handed, I’m afraid,” you chime, sarcastically. A hand goes to your forehead as you fake faintness. “I’m just so desperate to be scrutinized by yourself and your mother, to have my every movement watched, to somehow be less free than I already was. I simply… cannot… believe… that you saw through my bluff.” With that you give a dramatic sigh, pausing in the hallway to give Cassandra a judgemental look. If not for Alcina’s instructions to keep you safe, you’re certain she would have beheaded you on the spot. “I’m not claiming to understand the universe’s decision. But I’m also not giving up immediately, no matter how much the three of you scare me.” At that, Bela stops in her tracks, slowly turning to you. Instinctively you go to take a step backwards, only for Cassandra to catch you, holding you in place. Next thing you know, the oldest daughter is grabbing your head, staring you right in the eyes.

“Answer one question, and maybe I’ll make sure you don’t fall victim to some tragic, unfortunate accident. Can you see yourself loving my mother?” Bela asks, more intense than you’ve ever seen her before. Despite that, you don’t tremble, swallowing your fear long enough to reply.

“Honestly? I don’t know. She’s terrifying… and beautiful. Cruel to some of the maidens I’ve met… and loving to you three. I… I don’t know if I can love her,” you admit, gulping. “But isn’t that part of the point of trying? To find out? I am going to try, for both my sake and hers, to love her. To cherish her. What more would you ask of me? I cannot tell you how the days to come will go, whether or not your mother will enjoy them, or even whether she could love me. This is not a situation you can threaten into resolving the way you want it to. So let me go, finish the tour, and give me a chance. You owe your mother that much, do you not?” Soon enough the hands keeping you in place loosen their grip, and Bela turns away with a scoff. Honestly, you can hardly believe that your little speech worked. You aren’t given much time to celebrate, however, as the sisters quickly resume their walking. Before long, Daniela is speaking up between giggles.

“I like this one already.”

[mrslilyrogers]

All I have to do is Dream Part 3

Pairing: Steve x Reader, Telepath! Reader (X-men reader)

Summary: It’s been five years since the snap. You and Steve are stuck at an impasse. You want a family, he doesn’t. He says he’s moved on but has he really? With your doubts growing, you consider risking his trust and use your powers on him to get your answers once and for all.

Author’s notes: This is late and not as long as I hoped it would be but hope you all enjoy! There might be one more part left to this series and maybe an epilogue. 

Eight voicemails and twelve messages. Eight voicemails and twelve messages from the person you wanted to talk to the most. Everyday for the past few weeks since you left, he called. And everyday your hands itched to reach out and call back but you stopped yourself. 

“I love her!” 

His voice echoed in your head. Enough was enough. Your fingers kneaded your temples, trying to alleviate the headache forming there. It didn’t help that there was a dark gnawing feeling in your gut, something was wrong. You knew it. A sixth sense, if you will. It happened the first time your powers manifested. You had been eight then, in front of the television with your dad when suddenly, your heart started to beat faster, your breaths coming in short pants, and your forehead dotted in sweats; a strong sense of foreboding crept under your skin and ever since then, life had never been the same. 

That night, you slept in a restless slumber; trapped under a heavy spell while you watched your father as a young boy. You had no idea how you knew the man who carried you over his shoulders, who seemed so strong and indestructible to your child’s eyes, was this same little boy you watched. You couldn’t understand it, you were dreaming but it was so real. Every detail as crisp as if you had been there and witnessed it. It wasn’t long before it all changed, everything before you cast in a darker shade, the people around you in black, sliding apologetic glances towards the somber boy standing in between his grandparents. You started to break out in a cold sweat, you were at a funeral. The boy’s parents, your father’s parents, just died. You ran, screaming, your heart racing, trying to find a way to get out. You couldn’t stay here, you couldn’t. But the more frantic you became, the more everything jumbled, bringing out his worst fears and nightmares and all you could do was scream, helpless and trapped. 

Oddly enough, that was how you felt now. Despite leaving Steve for the sake of the both of you, you were trapped, helpless to the niggling thought at the back of your mind that something was about to go horribly wrong. You tried to remember everything Xavier Institute has taught you, you were a telepath and with it came a natural intuition you couldn’t ignore. A heightened sense of empathy and awareness. 

You understood people even when they barely gave you a chance to be understood. You still remembered all those times people ran away from you. Those you considered your closest friends, even your teachers, treated you as if you were the plague. Their thoughts filled with dread and terror while you desperately tried to explain yourself but the more agitated you became, the more you lost control. It gave you no other choice but to distance yourself from them, getting homeschooled and keeping to yourself as much as you could. Your father tried his best, you knew he did but he could never look at you the same way. You didn’t have to get into his head to hear his cries at night, worrying and wondering where he went wrong.

It wasn’t long before Professor X found you and invited you to join his school for the gifted. School for the gifted. There was a time you couldn’t say that without a roll to your eyes, how could it have been a gift when all it ever caused you was sorrow? The day it was finally time for you to leave the only home you’ve ever known, your father’s relief was palpable in the air. He never gave voice to it and instead promised to visit as often as he could but even then, you knew he wouldn’t have been able to keep up. He visited you less and less as time went on until your relationship was reduced to a couple of phone calls barely lasting five minutes long. 

That was why you learned never to get too close. You owed to the X-Men who you were today. They had given you a place to call home, somewhere to belong to. For all the years you spent at the institute, they were nothing but kind to you, encouraging you, helping you hone your abilities and to cope with the loss of your former life. They gave you a fresh start, a new family and it should’ve been enough and in some ways, it is. But there was always a part of yourself you couldn’t give no matter how hard you tried and so the moment you could leave, you left. You wandered on your own, occasionally coming back to visit and catch up before leaving again, never planting any roots. That was the way you wanted it, that way you could never get hurt. 

Until Steve.

He instantly broke down your defenses and what was supposed to be a one-timer mission turned longer than you would’ve ever dreamed. You would’ve been lying if you said you didn’t stay with the Avengers because of him. The truth was as much as staying with them was fulfilling, there was a part of him that called out to you. You understood him, a man out of his time. Out of place. All you’ve ever felt your whole life. His loneliness drew you to him like a moth to a flame. He never showed it, too proud to admit it to himself but you knew it the instant you met him. He was untethered, burdened to continue on in a world he didn’t belong in. Your heart ached for him, for a man so lost that he only ever felt alive when he was at war. You tried to help him see the world with color again. “Ironic, coming from you,” you thought to yourself. But the more time you spent with him, the more your cynicism chipped away bit by bit until you became closer to the person you were before your abilities. Free to dream and love as you should’ve been. It was as if you needed him as much as he needed you. 

“Would you like a refill for that, honey?” the kindly old waitress asked, jerking you out of your reverie, her wrinkled face etched into a pitying smile. You shook your head and gave her your thanks, the dread in your chest intensifying once more. 

Look at where you are now, back to square one. 

You huffed at the tiny voice inside your head. She was right. Here you were, sat on a dingy couch at a diner in the middle of nowhere running from the people you loved the most. You looked at your phone again, the gnawing feeling in the pit of your stomach screaming at you to do something. You should at least call Nat, you thought to yourself. You’d been planning to call her anyway even though you always chickened out. That seemed the safest thing to do for your sanity, make sure they were alright then you’d be on your merry way again. It was the only way to calm your racing heart, to get rid of that sense of foreboding creeping up at you and pulling you down. You could just be anxious, right? Guilt and shame of leaving plaguing you before you could truly move on. After that phone call, everything will be put back to rights. You’ll feel better, you keep telling yourself. Only your mind wouldn’t listen. 

The ringing on the other end of the line kept you on edge and when Nat’s worried voice greeted you, you let out a breath you didn’t know you’d been holding. 

“Y/N! Where the hell have you been? Steve has been looking everywhere for you! Do you know how worried we’ve been?”

You could hear the hurt in her tone and your heart broke at how you’d left things with your friend, completely forgetting about how she’d react when you impulsively decided to run away. But they were safe. At least, they were safe. Tears pricked at your eyes, you had no idea just how desperate you’ve become to hear her voice on the line, to know that nothing had happened in your absence and the stress of these past few weeks have just been taking its toll.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry, Nat--” you broke off, your voice cracking from trying not to cry. 

“I shouldn’t have left the way I did but it was just too much, I had to leave. I couldn’t stay, not after everything that happened,” you continued, sniffing through it, willing yourself not to break down to your best friend on the phone in the middle of a busy diner.

“I know, sweetie. Steve told me all about it.” She sighed, sounding tired, before continuing, “You know I will never pick any sides right? I’ll support whatever you decide.” 

“Thanks, Nat. I knew you would, I never doubted you. It’s just… it’s been a lot to take in and I can’t… I don’t know how to face him if…” you trailed off, not having the courage to continue what you knew all along. It was one thing to admit it to yourself but another to say it out loud to another person. It made it more real. More final. You picked at the hem of your shirt, shaking your head. It was as if Nat knew what you were thinking, she gave another sigh on the other end of the line.

“It’s okay, you don’t have to talk about it now. But Y/N, he really does love you. He hasn’t been the same since you left and--” she immediately cut herself off as if she was about to say something she shouldn’t. You didn’t miss her sharp intake of breath before she continued, “You should really talk to him, Y/N.” 

“Nat, what’s going on? Are you guys alright?”

You felt goosebumps on your flesh. Rubbing your free hand on your thigh, you tried to calm your racing nerves.

“No, no, we’re fine. Don’t worry--” she replied instantaneously, reassuring you but before she could continue, you cut her off, relief washing over you. 

“Good. That’s good. Cause for a while there, I thought you were gonna say something crazy. I’ve just been having this weird feeling that something big is going to happen. But I’m probably just being anxious. Sorry, what were you saying?” 

“You really do have that scary clairvoyant thing going on sometimes,” you heard her laugh at you, teasing, but before you could say anything else, she turned serious, 

“Y/N, we’re gonna try to bring everyone back,” her voice was filled with hope and determination that it made you pause, your brain struggling to keep up. 

What? Did you hear her right? 

She started to explain their plan but your mind was already spinning. You immediately left the booth, slapping a ten dollar bill on the table. Your frantic steps heading into the direction of your car parked outside.

“Nat, Nat, hold on. What do you mean you’re leaving? Traveling through time? Is that even possible?” You slammed the door on your car, your voice hushed as if scared to even wonder, heart beating rapidly in your chest. 

If she really meant what you think she meant then they were all going to risk their lives for an attempt to bring everyone back. But who knew if it would even work? What if they got lost? What if they never came back? You didn’t give yourself a moment to hope. This was too dangerous. Too quick and impulsive. You needed to talk to Steve.

Before Nat could reply, you heard him call her in the background, his voice authoritative and resolute. They were ready. They were going to leave now. 

“Nat, let me talk to him,” you heard yourself say without preamble. There was no need to think it through, it didn’t matter if he hated you, if he wanted nothing to do with you, you just had to talk to him. 

“Who’s that?” You could hear him ask in the background, his voice far, his footsteps approaching. 

The moment he realized who was on the other line, the moment he saw your picture flash on his friend’s screen, his hand shot out frantically for it, scared you’d leave before he even got a chance to hear your voice. 

“Y/N?” he asked softly, worried you might suddenly end the call. You could almost see the look on his face, eyebrows furrowed, eyes searching and concerned. 

“Steve,” All the emotions you felt carried out in a single name. Regret, shame, longing. That was all it took before you broke down into tears. If you hadn’t called Nat, if you had let even one more day pass by, your last fight could’ve been the last time you ever saw him. 

“Is everything alright? What happened? Are you okay?” he was suddenly alert, voice booming with concern and just a little bit of panic. 

“No, I’m fine, I’m fine. Nat told me everything. Are you leaving already? What’s going on?” you managed to choke out, trying to regain as much composure as you can. You heard him let out a sigh of relief on the other end. 

“Oh, doll. Don’t worry about us. It’ll be alright. We’ve got it under control, I promise,” he sounded so sure of himself, his voice so soothing, almost as if he were caressing your back like he usually does to reassure you. You heard his footsteps again and the closing of a door, you assumed he looked for a place more private, quiet. This time, you wouldn’t easily let up. 

“You can’t promise that, Steve. Let me come with you,” you pleaded, exasperation in your tone. You surprised even yourself, your hands already frantically moving to drive.  You had no idea what came over you, had no idea what you were even really getting into. All you knew was that no matter where you stood in your relationship, you’ve been through so much together, you couldn’t let him face this alone. 

“No. Absolutely not. It’s too dangerous, Y/N. Just stay where you are and I’ll come find you when all this is over,” his voice brooked no argument. You could already tell how he looked like, his head shaking vehemently, feet braced apart, eyes flashing with determination. 

“Steve--” you started, voice rising in return but he immediately cut you off. 

“Y/N, listen to me. I don’t have much time but please, just this once, promise me you’ll stay where you are. Keep yourself safe until I come find you--”

“No way am I--” you spoke over him, your patience wearing thin, panic rising in your throat. 

“Y/N, let me finish. Doll, I don’t have much time. We’ve already ran simulations and this works. We’re gonna get them all back but I can’t do that if I think you’re in trouble so please, baby, just promise me you’ll stay put. It’ll only be a minute for you. Just stay where you are, please. I can’t lose you, love.” his voice verged on desperation, making you pause. 

“I know I’ve said some things I can’t take back and god, do I fucking regret them every single day since you left but I love you. And if this fails and I don’t come back, I need to know you’re at least safe. I need you to promise me that,”

“Steve, don’t… don’t talk like that,” you shook your head, not acknowledging what he was saying. This was unfair. Steve was never one to be pessimistic, he never showed any vulnerability before a mission and the fact that he did now made your heart ache. He had one goal and one goal only, he wanted to right what he perceived to be his wrong. He was going into this fully prepared to give his life to get everyone back. But for you, the stakes were too high. Who knew the dangers of what the past held? What if something happens that would keep him there? 

“Love, please. We’re leaving soon,”

You let out a huge breath. “Just promise me you’ll be back?” 

You could almost hear the smile on his face, could almost see his shoulders sag with relief. 

“Then promise me, you’d stop driving while on the phone,” he joked, trying to make light of the situation. He knew how you could get when you excessively worried about him. He didn’t even realize how much he loved it until now that your fussing was reduced to a phone call. 

“Steve, I mean it,” you warned seriously. 

“When have I ever backed down from a fight? And this is just an extraction mission. I’ll be back before you know it, I promise,” his voice sounded so calming, you almost believed it. 

Despite his downplaying, you knew the risks. Time travel? Who could even say they’ve thought this would be possible even in their wildest dreams?

“I’ve gotta go, sweetheart. I love you. I’ll come to you as soon as all this is over,” you heard the scuffle of feet in the background, heard F.R.I.D.A.Y calling out to him, and suddenly, you didn’t have enough time. You had so much to say, so much to apologize for.

“Steve, wait--” you started desperately, ready to beg for forgiveness. 

“Don’t.” he cut you off quickly as if already knowing the direction you were heading in. 

“There’s no need, doll. I love you, we’ll make this work. I promise, I’ll do everything I can to make it work,”

He sounded so sincere, so forgiving that it made your lips tremble into a soft smile.

“I love you too, Steve. I’ll see you guys in a minute,” you replied, trying to sound as lighthearted as you could when you heard Nat scream it to you in the background. You didn’t want to psyche him out with your worry. This was the mission of his lifetime, everyone depended on him. 

You tried to ignore the heavy feeling in your gut, the fear crawling up your veins. 

Something is about to go wrong. 

Steve chuckled, finally feeling a weight being lifted off his chest, finally able to hope again. This was the future he looked forward to. 

“We’ll see you in a minute, baby,”  

You hoped to God you would. 

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

Author’s notes: This was tough to write since everything happens through a phone call. I tried to capture the tension of the situation through that and hope I did. As always, let me know what you think! Thanks for reading! 

[pbandjesse]

I am happy to be home. But it was hard to come back here to James not doing great. They tried to do to much while I was gone and were exhausted and in bed when I got back. I'm just glad I can be with them again.

Today was a fun day. But I didn't get enough sleep so that was a little rough. I felt quieter. But I was happy.

I was up until almost 3 last night. Which wasn't smart but I couldn't get my brain to go off. And I woke up a lot so that was hard.

When I got up I went to wash up and get dressed. And then I heard my brother out in the living room so I tried to rush so I wouldn't miss them. And so I ran out of there half finished getting dressed to at least give them a hug before they had to run to work.

So that made me happy. And it was good to see my parents. I finished getting dressed. Did my eyeliner. And went to chill in the living room.

We all talked for a while. I checked in with Jess and she would come get me around 1030. In the mean time me and my parents just talked. About religion mostly. About how just be sure you find solace and comfort in the bible doesn't mean I will. Which dad looked really surprised by that which was surpringing to me. I always love the talks we have. I joke about how aren't you glad you spent all that money on me for college, made me really smart.

Jess came and got me.

Both her and my mom were yelling at because I came out in the rain with no jacket. But I would run to my car to get my jacket and would be very cozy for the rest of the day.

It was nice hanging out with Jess. We were quieter. I think because I was tired and so I wasn't as active in conversations. But I really enjoyed listing to her about her new job and how well it seems to be going. I'm so proud of her.

We went to Starbucks first and got drinks. And it was rainier then we expected. So we went right to the mall to walk around inside. I got pretzel bites. And we walked around and it was fun.

After looking in some toy stores. Getting excited when we saw mall kids like we were back in the day?! And then we went to color me mine.

And while it was not as good as amazing glaze, it was fun! The first worker wasn't very friendly and kind of snipped at us for not having a reservation. And she said we would have to be done by 1. Which was almost two hours away so that was weird. But we got our table by the window and picked out our pieces.

We went with milk cartons. Just funky fun enough. And I was excited to make it all cute. I did put the sides I designed in the wrong order but no one but me will care. I still think it looks great and I hope it comes out cool. Jess's has fruits and veggies on it and looks so good. Her drawings have gotten better and better lately I swear. The new job must be helping.

After we finished and paid we would walk the mall more thoroughly. Went to see Santa for a minute. Looked like a really good one. We went to bath and body works. But it was wildly busy so we had to wait in a line just to get in.

We got a candle and a few hand sanitizers. And waited in the very long line to pay. Which I didn't mind because I was enjoying chatting and people watching.

Once we were done we decided going to go to friendlys for lunch. I know I went there for dinner last night. But it's easy and familiar and Jess can eat there so it worked.

And it was a nice meal and we had lots to say. I enjoyed the conversations. We talked a lot about her job and travel and things in our lives. Like we talk constantly so when we are together it's like. You get more nuance and details. It's good. It makes me happy.

We didn't want to say goodbye yet so we went to the Restore to look around. They had lots of goofy stuff and it was fun. I liked a lot of things but would only buy one thing. A hinged box shaped like a house. I love it. I don't know what we will use it for but I love it.

We also stopped at Marshall's and I got body oil and she got dry shampoo. And I just love doing little things with Jess. It's my favorite thing.

Jess took me back to my parents after that. She was all frowny saying goodbye. But we will see each other soon!!!

I spent the next hour hanging out with my parents. There was some drama when Sophie freaked out at the other dogs because she's jealous. I think they should rehomed her. She should be in a house without other animals if she's that jealous. I will see what I can do to help but poor Gracie and Molly are so chill, they don't need to be beaten up on!! But Mom was obviously upset about it. I just want to help.

I would pack up my backpack and get everything to the car soon after that. I wanted to leave around 4. And I was pleased when my GPS found a way for me not to have to drive to Philly first. So I did not have to drive directly into the sun.

It was a long drive home. And I would have to stop for gas. It was a beautiful drive home but it was long and I was getting tired.

I was really happy to be home. And I made pretty good time getting home a little before 630.

I brought all my stuff inside. And the house was dark and quiet. Where is James? They were in bed. Not feeling well. They would get up and change and ate some fruit and felt a little better but I was upset to see them so poorly.

We would chill on the couch. Opening mail and our advent calendars. James even got me a new one that is squid facts? Amazing.

I would just rest on the couch while James did some podcast editing. I had Mac and cheese. James are some bread. We just had some quiet time together. I missed them so much.

I washed my hair and got cozy. And now we are in bed. I have to dry my hair still. So I will do that before bed.

I don't have to do anything tomorrow. Completely free day. I'm going to work on my quilt stuff and catch up on my temperature blanket. And I hope it's a restful day.

I hope you all have a great night tonight. Sleep well and stay cozy!