#I wouldn’t have to put her down to finish cooking supper

[pteryx-pets]

ROTATE the cat

[chatterbox-73]

Kinktober 2024.

Day 6 - Paying tribute.

Suguru Geto x fem!Reader

This story is a smut story for Kinktober, I’ll be writing more characters x reader one shots for Kinktober and if you want to see a character please let me know...

You must be 18 years or older to read this...

🔞⚠️NO MINORS ALLOWED⚠️🔞

Summary: you’ve worked for Suguru Geto for several years after he rescued you from a terrible situation, you took it upon yourself to take care of all his needs… well almost all of them until one night, were you begin to take care of all his needs.

Word count: 3k

CW: NSFW and adult content, slight praise kink, master kink, unprotected sex, multiple cream-pies, Geto being his usual racist self towards non-sorcerers (uses of the word monkey), oral (f!receiving), fingering, nipple/breast play, swearing, mentioning of killing, mention of SA and trafficking, mention of forced marriage.

You walked up the sliding door and knelt down before it, you knocked on it and waited for a response, “enter…” called the voice from the other side of the door, you slid the door open and shifted into the room before turning in your knees and closing the door, you facing back to the man occupying the room. You placed your hands on the floor and bowed deeply, so the your forehead was resting on the backs of your hands, “I’m almost finished with your supper Master Geto” you spoke as you sat back up and looked to him, “where shall I serve it to you?” Your eyes shifted to the man and young woman sitting before Geto, the young woman had a snake like curse wrapped around your eyes and neck, “my room, I’ll be done very soon but there’s no need for you to rush” Geto hummed before sending you away, you bowed again and turned on your knees to open the door, “thank you, you’re very kind, Master Geto” you smiled slightly and shifted out of the room before sliding the door shut, you then stood and walked back to the kitchen.

Geto watched the faint smile make its way to your lips, a smile so soft most wouldn’t notice it, yet he did. Geto had watched you leave the room and waited to hear your soft footsteps retreating back to he presumed the kitchen, normally Geto would have taken his dinner in his meeting room but he didn’t was to eat in a room that recked of monkeys and especially not subject you to such a thing, Geto had met you through a man who had informed him about a woman, a sorcerer for no sorcerer clan who had married a monkey from quite a small but very notable clan, the monkey, who also happened to be this clan sole male heir had married to this woman because of his lack of abilities, and before long a child was born of their union a child that inherited abilities of this small clan, though due to complications the man’s wife was unable to have anymore children, which would have been a bad thing however the child she gave birth to was a girl. The man took it upon himself to ensure a male heir was born with the abilities of his clan, even if it meant subjecting his young daughter to horrific conditions, though fortunately before the man was able to put his plan into motion Geto was informed and intervened, that day Geto killed all those reciting on the clans property and all who had knowledge of the situation, that day the entirety of the small clan was killed, the sorcerer woman and a few members of very notable clans were also killed, however the matter was never looked into because of the taboo nature of it, a young teen girl being auction off too notable clans in exchange for her first male heir… It was sick and the higher up knew it, that’s why they stayed silent.

That however was several years ago, you had promised to stay by Geto’s side and give him your life as he had saved you, it was the least you could give him, from that day on you’d do everything for Geto, you cooked and hand prepared all his meals, you wash and dry all his laundry, you brush and put up his hair, if there was a task he needed done you’d do it.

Geto entered his room and saw you finishing setting the table for him, there was his food, a tea pot of hot tea and two bottles of hot Sake, you knelt beside the table with your hand folded in your lap, before you turned to the man and bowed deeply to him, “Master Geto, you’re back… everything went well in the end” you smiled and sat up to wait for the man’s response, “quite well… but I reek of monkey now, help me change out of these rags” he grumbled and began undoing his robes, you stood immediately and began to strip him, you pasted him a towel before you walked to grab him some comfortable pants and a T-shirt, “would you like a bath before you eat, master Geto?” You asked and held the clothes for him to take, “no, I’m fine… it was just those clothes” he hummed before slipping on his pants and allowing you to help him pull the shirt over this head and down over his torso.

“I’m sorry for having to subject you to the foul smell of those monkeys” Geto brushed a hand over your cheek before sitting at the floor table and picking up his chopsticks and the bowl of plain rice, you felt your face warm up as you moved to kneel beside the table waiting for Geto to take his first bite, “I don’t mind, non-sorcerers don’t smell like anything to me… but I appreciate your kindness Master Geto” you smiled and he mirrored your smile, “You’re too kind to those monkeys… you’re too kind to even me” he hummed and you balled you hands into fists and sat up straight, “that’s not true at all, you mean everything to me Master Geto… I treat you the way you deserve to be treated” you raised your voice and you felt your face go red, Geto chuckled and nodded believing it best not to argue with you, out of fear you’d work yourself up too much and pass out from the stress.

Geto hummed in delight as he placed a piece of fish in his mouth, “you’ve out done yourself today, this fish is beautiful” he looked to you, watching as you smiled brightly and your cheeks heated up, “thank you Master Geto…” you spoke through a bright smile.

“Shall I go?” You asked and Geto shook his head, “Is there more?” He asked and you nodded, “I can serve you more once you’re finished, Master Geto” you hummed and he shook his head, “I wasn’t asking for me, I’d like for you to sit and join me” he smiled and you looked at him with wide eyes, Geto called for someone who was standing at the door, the man entered and he instructed him to set a tray of the food just like his own for you, and it was to be brought down he for you, you had not chance to deny or argue, “now before your food gets here pour yourself a cup of tea… and I’d like some sake” he spoke and you began to pour his sake and holding the cup for him to take, before pouring your cup of hot tea and in no time at all a tray of hot food was placed before you, “thank you, you’re far too kind Master Geto… you treat me so well” you smiled and Geto felt a slight knot in his stomach at your praise, “I don’t know what I’d do without you” you picked up your chopsticks and gave your thanks as you began eating, it really was good, you knew the food was tasty but having them together and with the tea it was all an excellent choice and you felt so much pride in yourself for giving the man you cared for so dearly such a delicious meal, “it’s delicious isn’t it… you’re quite talented” Geto sipped his sake and watched you eat the food, “I’m honoured you’d share your table and meal with me, Master Geto… you really are the greatest gift I’ve received” you felt tears sting the corner of your eyes and Geto leaned over and brushed his thumbs under your eyes, “you’re so generous with your praises… it pleases me, I’ll be sure too do more so I may earn more of your sweet praises” he whispering and kissed the corner of your lips, before he sat back and continued eating.

“Master Geto…” you spoke as to fingers brushed over the spot Geto had just kissed, “yes dear” he hummed and sipped on his sake, “may I asked for another kiss, if it isn’t too much trouble” you said while your face reddened so much Geto was sure if you weren’t sitting beside him, he’d have a difficult time recognising you.

Geto placed a hand on the side of the table and leant towards you, “you sit there so innocently and asked a man you worship to kiss you…” he said as his nose pressed against yours, “you ask me as if it isn’t going to make me act up” he spoke against your lips, you hummed and grabbed his shoulders “Master Geto, please” you whimpered and the man shoved to table causing the food and drinks to spill, all while he pressed you down onto your back, “Master Geto, what about your meal?” You gasped as he began to pull the ties and belts of your robes’ off, before opening the fabric and exposing your naked body underneath, “there is no worry, as my meal is laid before me” he chuckled and moved in.

Geto’s lips danced across your neck before drifting down your chest, he licked over your breasts and took one of your nipples in his mouth, “you shouldn’t lick me like that, I haven’t showered tonight, Master Geto… I’m dirty” you whined as you pressed your legs together and shift at the feeling of his lips wrapped around your nipple, Geto leant back and moved to the other nipple suckling on it before he spoke against your breast, “I spent my days with those smelly monkey, I long for the moment of relief I get when I spend time with you, my precious girl…” he groaned as he kissed down your body and grabbed your legs, Geto pried them apart and laid on his stomach, before he pressed his face between your legs and began kissing your inner thighs so lightly it tickled, you moaned and Geto quickly pulled your cunt into his face, he groaned as his tongue massaged over your clit and he rubbed the tip on his finger over your opening before pressing it into you, “Master Geto, please… it’s too good” you cried and the man hummed at your moans, he wrapped his lips around your clit as he sucked on it and he pushed a second finger into you.

You felt yourself slipping into ecstasy, you reached up for Geto’s hair and gently brushed your fingers into his fringe, while you moaned and arched your back, “Master Geto, you’re so good… you’re too good to me” you moaned and Geto felt your body tenses, he continued you work on your cunt, licking, sucking and fingers pumping, “I can see heaven… master Geto, it’s so good-“ you cut yourself off as you moaned and gripped his hair a little tighter, “Mast- Master… Geto…” you huffed as your legs shook and your eyes rolled back.

Geto smiled as he felt you cum over his fingers, he pulled back a look down as your body and all while continuing to pump his fingers in and out of you, “say it’s good… tell me my fingers are good” he grabbed your face and focused you to look at him, “it’s good, master… your fingers a too good for me” you cried and Geto groaned, his fingers moving faster into you as your words stuck with him, he wasn’t too good for you but he definitely liked to hear it, though Geto chose to ignored the fact you’d tell him he was far too good for you even if he wasn’t fingering you.

“No… no more please, Master Geto” you sobbed as another orgasm began to build in your belly, Geto pulled away and you sighed as you were able to relax despite being deprived an otherworldly orgasm, “I want you… I’ve wanted you for a long time” Geto spoke as he pulled his shirt off and slid his pants off, leaving him as naked as you were, “every woman I’ve wasted my time with, is because you are out of my reach…” he grabbed your waist and pulled you down towards him, “but now you are here beneath me, will you expect me into you” he rubbed his tip through your folds, you moaned and grabbed his arms, “yes… have me completely, Master Geto” you rubbed his forearms with your thumbs and looked down towards his erection as it slid over your folds, “drop the formalness… I’ll be in you like a lover would be, address me as such” Geto explained and your face reddened, “I can’t… I can’t disrespect you in such a manner” you grabbed tightly onto his forearms and looked at him with a wide-eyed expression, “then call me Master Suguru… if you insist on being so formal” he sighed with a smile and you nodded, “Thank you for being so understanding, Master Suguru” you ran your hands up his arms to his shoulders, Geto groaned and slowly pressed his tip into your entrance, no longer being able to wait.

Geto pulled you up onto his lap as he slid you further down onto his member, “it’s good… it’s so big” you moaned in Geto’s ear as you wrapped your arms around his neck and hugged him close, he pressed his face into your neck and breathed in your scent, you were gorgeous and sweet, Geto longed to protect you, even though you didn’t need him to, you were strong enough on your own and capable but yet you devoted yourself to him, which was enough for him to want to have you by his side forever.

As Geto gently pulled you down into him, his hip thrust upwards into you, “Master Suguru, I’m so full… please” you moaned and Geto groaned against your skin before leaning you back and kissing down your neck to your chest, where he took one of your nipple into his mouth, he suckled all while you moaned and whined for him, digging your fingers into his hair and pressing your lips to the crown of his head, “I can feel you squeezing me…” he hummed against your breast, “…we just began and your already so close…” he lifted himself up and walked over to his bed, he gently placed you down while remaining inside of you, he grabbed your hands and pinned them down as he entwined both your fingers, “…I’m no where near done with you” he grunted and he snapped his hips into you quickly to emphasise what he said.

It had been hours at this point, the moon what high in the sky and soon the sun would be occupied the sky again, your voice had gone hoarse from all the crying and moaning you’d done, now you were lying on your stomach as Geto held your hips up and he thrusted rather desperately into you, he watch mesmerised by his cum that had been leaking out around his cock with every thrust he made, “I’m yours alone, Master Suguru… I’ll let only you have me” you moaned and looked back at the beautiful man behind you, you made intense eye contact with his slanted purple eyes, that watched you so deeply, “I want to take you from that world… I want you to know endlessly peace” Geto leant down and captured your lips before he his hips began snapping quickly into you, his thrusts were rough and quick, you could tell he was getting close again.

You turned your upper body to face him and wrapped an arm around his shoulders, “please let me have it deep this time, Master Suguru” you moaned and cupped his face with your other hand all while continuing to look him in the eyes, Geto grunted and your cunt squeezed at the sound, “your needy cunt wraps around far too tightly for me to not fill you with cum” he huffed and held your waist down and his hips began to snapped very quickly into you as he grunted deeply with each thrust.

“I’m going full you so good… you want that?” Geto huffed breathlessly as you gasped and nodded, “oh yes… yes please, Master Suguru” you moaned and bit your lower lip as your eyes rolled back, your hips shook, your toes curled and your head dropped onto the soft blanket on Geto’s bed, “oh Christ… you’re perfect, my perfect girl” he threw his head back and sighed out into the air, as he grabbed at your waist so tightly you squeaked out in discomfort causing Geto to let going of you and quickly apologise. Geto pulled out of you and watched as all his load began to drip and leak from your cunt, you moaned as the feeling of his hot loads deep inside you.

You moved to stand was stopped, “what are you doing? Are you crazy? I just used your body up without giving you a break…” Geto scolded you and pressed a hand down on your upper back, making it difficult you to move or even sit, “…if you need something I’ll let it, let your Master take care of you for a change” he chuckled and you shook your head, “no no, I couldn’t… let me run you a bath and massage your sore muscles, Master Geto” you spoke quickly and Geto huffed in disbelief, “back to calling my Geto, like I had just spent hours in you… how disappointing” he sighed and faked disappointment, because he picked you up and threw you over his shoulder and walked you to the bathroom, you protested the entire way to the room, the whole ten steps.

Geto ran the bath all while you remain over his shoulder pleading with him to let you take care of it, “enough!” Geto spoke in a suddenly, his tone was sharp and deep, you suddenly stopped and he sighed, “I’m sorry, darling girl… I admire your devotion to me but for this moment your the boss and I’m taking care of you” he smiled and placed you into the warm water, you sighed and relaxed as you ran a hand up Geto’s arm, “okay, well please join me in the bath… Suguru” you spoke softly, Geto’s eyes widened his jaw dropped, he nodded and moved into the bath before pulling you closer, “I like that, my name sounds so good on your lips, Master” Geto kissed you as he’s cheeks reddened and he pressed his face into your neck.

Kinktober Masterlist

Day 5 - Shota Aizawa: kitten’s treat.

Day 7 - Tetsurou Kuroo: Just sit here.

[mikhailwrites]

Waiting for Connection 1 / Ghost x Soap NerdAU

Last week was really hard for me and as much as I love the MWIII rewrite, I really needed something comforting. So I took an AU idea that was brainstormed on the Ghoap Discord and decided to go through with it.

Ghost chose to play Arma, because it offers at least a semblance of realism. A meager attempt at simulation of life he lost after the injury. He wouldn't call himself a hardcore gamer, but he supposes he can be a tad too intense at times. If only the random people he plays with could keep up with him. Then one day, a player with a handle CallMeSoap joins the game. He seems to be more than able to follow Ghost's virtual command. A little bit too well, if Ghost is being honest.

Also on AO3

“Thirty feet, I said thirty feet and no cover! Do you know what does that mean? It means you don’t toss a bloody frag!” Ghost seethes, angry enough to let go of his mouse and keyboard, afraid he might break them. Before him is a plain screen with a “Mission Failed” message.

“Hey man, chill, ‘s just a game, Ghost, don’t be a cunt,” DanDeLeon87 tries to defuse the situation. He’s not entirely wrong; of course, it is just a game. If someone should be able to tell the difference, it’s Ghost with his years of service in SAS. On the other hand, he plays this particular game precisely because it’s about the closest to the real thing without the stakes. He knows it’s not entirely healthy; hell, his therapist even said so, which is bloody hysterical, considering the military videogames were her idea in the first place. Well, Ghost supposes it simply works too well.

“I’m well aware, Leon, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do better, does it?” Ghost shoots back at his teammate. “Well, whatever, I think I’ll call it a day anyway. Thanks for the game.” He doesn’t even wait for the response before disconnecting.

Simon’s not tired enough to go to bed yet, and the weather outside is bad enough that he can’t be bothered to go to a pub. Ghost takes the headset off, taking care to tap the switch to turn off his mic before he sets it down on a custom-made stand an acquaintance 3D printed for him.

Going to the kitchen, Simon opens the fridge and scans the shelves. He knows exactly what’s in there; it’s just that standing there, basking in the yellowish light and pretending to mull over his options is comforting in a way.

In the end, he takes out a can of Guinness and a frying pan covered with plastic foil. Ghost never cooks for a single meal. It wouldn’t warrant the time, the dishes, and the effort. Today, he’s finishing the ginger beef he made yesterday.

Of course, as soon as he closes the fridge, something brushes against his legs and announces itself with a loud, demanding “meow!”

“I vividly remember giving you supper an hour ago,” Simon eyes the cat accusingly, and the stare is returned tenfold. “This is my dinner.”

“Meow!” Stripey sits as if to underline the level of his displeasure.

“Oh, piss off,” Ghost scoffs, ripping the foil from the pan and putting it on the stove. The words have no bite as he goes to a cupboard, fishing out a package of treats. “You’re gonna be fat,” he quips as he fishes out a few pieces, offering them up on his palm.

[starlightrows]

14 — The Understanding

The Queen of Tatooine

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Pairing: Boba Fett x reader

Word Count: 2.8k

Warnings: Injury, healers/doctors, insecurity, self doubt, working on healthy communication

Summary: Boba struggles to accept the limitations and realities of his life. You struggle to find the best way to be a supportive partner.

AN: Listen, I don’t know what happened. Time is a weird soup and I for sure thought less time had passed since my last update. Also I know this chapter is short, but the next chapter is already in the works and will be coming out soonish!

Happy Star Wars Day!

When you and Boba arrive back on Tatooine, he struggles to get down the ladder on his bad leg. He pauses at the ship’s ramp.

“Cyare, you and I must not show that anything on this mission went wrong. Our staff can not know of my injury” he says

“I can go first and send all the staff away so you can get to our room without being seen” you offer

“No, that would look suspicious. I must walk under my own power and appear normal” he explains

You frown, you’re no expert but you know that injury is pretty serious and he should not be putting an weight on it at all. “May I call Darius to come look at your knee? I will have him be discreet”

He grumbles in frustration. Boba always hated seeing healers or doctors. As a child he got poked and prodded at by the doctors on Kamino a lot, as a reckless young man he often got hurt on jobs and mostly wouldn’t be seen by a healer until it was nearly too late. As an adult, he just doesn’t want to be told what he already knows; he’s getting too old for this.

But you are standing there, looking at him with genuine fear and concern for his well being. And the idea of disappointing you is more painful to him than what he feels in his leg, or his distaste of seeing a healer.

“Oh alright” he relents “Have him come by later today after things have died down from our return home”

You give a little nod, and stand up straight. Wanting to look composed when the ramp drops. Boba leads the way down the ramp and into the palace. To your surprise, you don’t encounter that many staff once you get inside. Just some guards and Fennec.

“We will speak later” Boba says gruffly to Fennec, passing by her and heading towards the bed chambers. She shoots you a look, but doesn’t comment.

“I‘ll join you shortly” you say softly to him, breaking off to go down to the kitchens to speak to the staff about having dinner prepared and delivered to your chambers tonight. And to stop in an empty hallway to send a com message to Darius, requesting he come by the palace this evening.

He replies quickly I don’t think I can say no to a request from the king, what time?

You indicate a time after dinner would be finished and instruct him on where to go to draw the least amount of attention to the fact that he would be arriving. Then you head down to the kitchens.

Mira gets so excited when you come down the stairs, Talece looks happy too, but contains her excitement a bit more than her friend, wanting to be professional.

“How was your trip my lady?” Talece asks, bringing out a tray of finger foods that she and Mira had prepared ahead of time for your arrival.

“Well, the mission was accomplished. But it didn’t go quite as expected” you tell them

“Can you tell us anything? Or is it a secret?” Mira asks

“Unfortunately my dear, I think it’s probably better you didn’t know” you smile “But if that ever changes I’ll tell you the whole story”

Mira looks a little disappointed, but ultimately she understands. She and Talece finish preparing the tray of food, and help you carry it as well drinks for Boba and yourself up to your chambers. They bid you goodnight and scurry off to finish cooking supper for the rest of the palace staff.

When you enter the room you are shocked to see Boba sitting on the ground next to the bed. You drop the tray of food down onto the table unceremoniously, and rush to his side. It looks as if he collapsed trying to make it to sit down on the bed, and is now just trying to remove his armor.

“Here, let me help you with that” you say gently, beginning to undo the latches of his armor and put each piece away properly.

Boba doesn’t say anything or make eye contact the entire time, but he moves his arms and legs to help assist you in removing each piece of beskar. When he is down to just his underclothes, you squat down and get his arm around your shoulders.

“This is the last step darling, then you can rest” you assure him. He grumbles some kind of acknowledgment to your words, and stands up with your help. The transfer to the bed is simple, but he feels like a massive burden on you at this moment.

You busy yourself by fluffing up the pillows, placing an extra pillow under his injured knee, filling a glass of water and placing it on his nightstand, and starting to unpack. He watches you flitting about, making a little plate of the finger foods to bring over to him from the bigger serving platter.

He can see the shadow of who you were, before coming here with him. Cooking, cleaning, keeping busy every waking hour of the day, usually in the service of others.

“Come lay down for a while, mesh'la” he says, lifting an arm for you to join him.

You glance over your shoulder at him and give him a quick smile before turning back to the table. You bring the little plate of food you’ve set up for him and offer it “Are you hungry? Can I get you anything else before the healer comes?”

He accepts the plate and places it on the nightstand before looking at you. “Can you do something for me?” He asks

“Anything” you say earnestly

“Lay down with me”

That pulls you up short. You look at Boba, laying against the pillows with his knee propped up. Looking exhausted and honestly a little frustrated. Your face softens and you reach out your hand to take his.

“I’m doing too much” you realize, feeling a bit bad and now thinking you’ve overwhelmed him.

“No” he shakes his head “You asked if there was something I wanted. I want to lay down with you”

You nod your head, take off your shoes and climb onto the bed with him. He opens his arm once more, inviting you to come in close to him. You lay in the space he’s created for you, and snuggle up. He gives a big contented sigh as you settle in.

“Ahhh, that’s better” wraps his arm around you, and closes his eyes.

You cuddle into him a little more and relax a little too, though you’re still pretty concerned about having his knee checked out by the healer.

“Sorry about before” you say after a few quiet minutes

“For what cyare?”

“For…. coddling you I suppose”

“That is not why I asked you to come lay down with me” he says, rubbing your shoulder with his thumb “You told me our excursion was going to be a vacation, and that had to be cut short. I had every intention of doting on you on that trip, and taking all of your worries and responsibilities away for a while. I still want you to relax and not worry so much, even though we can’t be on our vacation”

“We can relax together. The girls made us this lovely spread and Darius won’t be here for a few hours, we can put on a show and just unwind a little” you sit up and reach over to bring the plate of food

Boba would much rather be serving you fruit and cheese from a silver platter, but he could settle for this. He puts a show on the holo and indulges in the snacks, the long day of travel after the hunting ordeal is weighing on him. He’s more tired than he wants to admit, after a while he can’t help nodding off.

You take the tray away and pass it along to a servant with a warm smile and instruction to thank Mira and Talece for being so thoughtful to prepare this for you. You finish tidying the room and unpacking as quietly as you can so you don’t disturb his rest. When you’re finished you sit back on the bed with Boba and watch the show by yourself.

A knock on the door rouses you from the light sleep you didn’t even realize you had slipped into. Beside you Boba is also waking up from a nap as well, rubbing his eyes and searching for his com to determine how much time has passed. You slide off of the bed quickly and go to the door.

Darius stands in the hallway, escorted by Tems and Harlan with a bag you assume is full of medical equipment. He gives you a look when you open the door.

“You didn’t tell me there would be goons waiting at the door” he snips

“I asked you to come to the palace, how could there possibly not be guards” you open the door wider and let him in. Boba has sat himself fully upright and has composed himself, no trace of napping, idleness or weakness of any sort to be seen.

“My lord” Darius addresses Boba respectfully “My name is Darius, your… partner… tells me that you were shot yesterday”

You sit back in a chair and let Darius do his job, examining the knee, palpating it, running various scans and tests, moving Boba’s leg through some range of motion exercises. Boba scowls the entire time and gives short, curt answers.

“Well, luckily for you it appears you haven’t damaged anything irreparable. But you need to be consistent about following the regime I will leave you with” Darius says taking out some medications for Boba to take over the next week to encourage healing “And you will need to be on bed rest for the next three days at minimum”

“Out of the question” Boba snaps

“My lord it’s bad enough that you were walking around yesterday and today. If you want your leg to heal you have to do this” Darius counters

Boba grumbles and looks away from Darius. Darius turns to you, “My lady” You stand and approach them. Darius starts running through the medicines he’s leaving for Boba, you do your best to remember all of it. “And make sure he complies with the bed rest orders, it is vital to the healing process”

“Of course, thank you” you lead him towards the door

“I’m serious about that bed rest” he whispers as you hand him a purse of credits “Force him if you have to”

You nod silently, and shut the door behind him. You turn back to Boba, he’s turned himself away to face the balcony doors, scowling at the sky beyond. You approach tentatively and sit beside him. You stroke his arm gently and lean your head on his shoulder.

“I hate doctors” he huffs

“You also don’t like people telling you what to do” you smile a little.

He hums in acknowledgment but doesn’t respond. He’s quiet the rest of the night, begrudgingly allowing you to serve him more food and turning in early for the night.

Boba makes it through the first day of bed rest, albeit working the entire time from his data pad. You do your best to give him some space and not baby him, but you are diligent in tending to his wound.

By the second day he is no longer willing to cooperate with bed rest or coddling of any kind. You catch him putting on his armor by himself when you come into your chambers at midday to have lunch with him and check on his leg.

“What are you doing?” You ask in shock “You’re supposed to be on bed rest”

“I am fine mesh’la. I need to get back to work” he insists forcing himself to stand all the way up

“Boba please! Please don’t do this, you have to rest” you plead, putting yourself in front of him in an effort to prevent him from going anywhere.

“I have made up my mind about this cyare. Stand aside” he says

You shake your head “No… you can’t. I won’t let you”

He stares at you for a long moment, not moving to counter you but not relenting to your wishes either. He says your name slowly, no mesh’la or cyare or princess to soften himself. He needs you to hear him. “Please. I have to do this. I have to go back to working”

“Why?” You stand rooted on the spot. He’s never acted like this before and it’s beginning to scare you, you won’t move without some kind of explanation.

“If I am not working. If I am not having these meetings, making these deals, seeing to the needs of our people, then I am not providing for you and I can’t—” his voice breaks and he looks away from you for a moment “I can’t protect you if I’m laying useless in bed”

“That’s what this is about? It’s only a few days, my love. We have a palace full of guards to protect us while you get better. I’m not worried about—“

“It’s more than that” he cuts you off. He gives in and sits back down on the bed, his throbbing knee will not allow him to stand any longer.

You sit beside him and resist the urge to start taking the armor back off of him “Talk to me. What’s going on that I’m not seeing?”

He doesn’t say anything for a few moments, he stares down hatefully at his leg and his fathers’ armor.

“I’m not the man I used to be. Not the man I should be.” he sighs “I used to get shot, slashed, strangled, stabbed and bounce back in time to take another bounty within the week. I have my armor back. My skin has healed. I have a palace as a base of operations. I should be as I was. I should be strong like my father. When he died he was still in his prime. I’m younger than he was when he passed. And yet I feel twice my age”

Your heart aches. You never would have known he was feeling this way if he hadn’t said anything.

“Boba… you are still strong. You have protected me. You have provided me with a life so far beyond what I ever thought was possible. I love you so much, but you aren’t protecting anyone by pushing your body to a breaking point”

“I shouldn’t have a breaking point, at least not this low of a standard for one” he grumbles

“This galaxy is cruel and unforgiving. I know it, you know it, everyone who has ever lived knows it. This galaxy takes and takes and takes. My parents, my inn, your mother and father, your strength” You reach out and take his hand “But the galaxy also gave me you. And the truth is I am selfish. I want to keep you… I won’t allow you be taken away from me”

He looks up from your joined hands to your face. Your pretty face, full of sadness and determination he did not expect to see. You are serious about this.

“You want to keep me?” He huffs out a half breath chuckle

“Yes. I want to keep you for a long long time”

“How long?”

You meet his gaze “Forever”

“Then I am yours forever. I will follow the healer's recommendations and I will make an effort to take better care of myself” he reaches for you, caressing your cheek.

“Thank you” you smile gently, leaning into his hand. “You know, since you’re in a position of power now. The King of Tatooine. We have plenty of guards and household staff, maybe you should look into hiring some more help with the business side of things”

“I got into this mess with my leg by placing too much trust in hired men” Boba points out

“That’s true I suppose” you admit

“But, it didn’t have to be me that went after them. I could have hired a bounty hunter” he says sitting back a little

“Or sent Fennec” you nod

“Hm, I prefer to keep her in the palace. She is head of the guards and security here” he makes a bit of a face “But I suppose I should hire someone capable to be the one I send out to take care of things off world”

“Just something to think about. I’m sure it will take some things off your plate” you smile a little, happy he seems to be seriously considering your suggestion.

“Thank you cyare. Where would I be without you?” He kisses you sweetly

Tag List: @cannedsoupsucks @otterly-fey @paige6768 @littledragonlady @star-hoes @aeryntheofficial @xx-small-town-witch-xx @lokisgirlszendaya @ladysongmaster @2clones-1kamino @cagrame @ashbyrhymer @adancedivasmom @4rosydreams @howlerwolfmax @thefact0rygirl

[nitannichionne]

If He Was Your Fan (A Henry Cavill Fanfic), Chapter 70-Version 2: At The Library (Henry POV)

“Ladies?” I say as soon as I step into our dining area.

She recognizes that voice instantly, and looks up. I smile brightly at her, and her eyes are alight. I told her I would try to join them for high tea. “Henry!”

“Darling,” I purr and bend down to plant a kiss on her cheek. I move around and take the seat next to her. “Sophia, Chiru…this is overdue, I’ve heard so much about you two.”

They giggle like schoolgirls and I watch her shake her head with amusement at their reaction.

“Where have you been?” Chiru asks.

“As you probably know, Witcher 2 is about to come out,” I say with ease. “Work, work, work, work work.” I flash a poster grin, and they look like they’re about to swoon. Her friends are so easy.

“Yeah, we can’t wait!” Sophia says excitedly.

“Your girl here won’t tell us anything,” Chiru says coyly.

“That’s because I don’t really know,” she says, probably again by the look on her face. “I wasn’t on set—”

“Well, not all the time, anyway,” I put in.

“How was your first American Thanksgiving?” Chiru asks.

We both seem to hit the same hesitation to answer.

“It was interesting,” She replies. “meeting my family and all.” She chuckles, albeit a bit nervously.

“Her sister was really something,” I say with a smile. “Very sarcastic and dry sense of humor.” I kept my pleasant expression but inwardly tensed at the memory of my discussion with her:

“You’ve got to slow down, darling,” I say smoothly as she scampers and hops around the kitchen.

“I just..this isn’t well planned, Henry,” She shakes her head at the mess on the kitchen table. “I—”

“We could have ordered an entire supper,” I nod. “You didn’t have to do this. We’re kind of jetlagged, and I’ve never seen you so tired.”

She sighs heavily. “I went and picked up her meds, too.”

“What?” I frown. “Doesn’t she have anything delivered?”

“I don’t know, she asked me to do it, so—”

“You did,” I finish grimly. I guard my expression and say, “I think I left something in the car. I’ll check to make sure we didn’t leave anything out there.”

“Oh, okay.”

I head downstairs and walk in on Shannon, who is watching the telly and hasn’t done anything she said she would do for supper. “Shannon?”

“Oh, hey.”

“Your sister is cooking most of it, and you haven’t even started?”

Shannon stiffens and shrugs. “It’ll get done.”

“Yes, you will, or you won’t eat a thing.”

Shannon chuckles softly, shaking her head. “She wouldn’t do that—”

“But I would.”

Her attention sways from her program. “You—”

“I am the man in her life, her protector, and I plan on being around for awhile,” I say menacingly. “so that means she is no longer your Cinderella, no longer your servant, and when she is being kind, you will be grateful even if you have to fake it.”

“Or what?” she dares, but looks intimidated.

“Or deal with me.”

I chuckle at the memory. Shannon didn’t finish, but with a wicked grin, I took every single pot, pan, dish and bit of flatware to her kitchen and dining room for her to clean. “I am actually looking forward to our next visit.”

Chiru raises her eyebrows, catching on to something, but not sure what. Chiru is very observant, got to keep your wits about you when she’s around. I give her a wink, and she is disarmed. “Well, the big thing on the horizon is the premiere right now.”

“Not a big deal, darling, really,” I say smoothly.

“We hit a lot of stores today,” Sophia sighs heavily.

“And I like the one you chose—”

“Sophia, this is my first time out,” you tell her. “I don’t want to look bad.”

“Do you look bad in it?” I ask.

“Well…no, I don’t, but—”

“That’s it, then,” Sophia nods.

“I don’t look like an actress.

“What’s wrong with that?” I ask. “And actors look different.”

“Thank God!” Sophie rolls her eyes.

“I’m just…I see the women on the carpet, Sophie,” she shrugs. “I’m not a skinny Minnie, as they say, fair hair, Cosmo, Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire.”

“So?” I look into her eyes. I squeeze her hand and kiss it, not losing eye contact.

She smiles, exhaling heavily. “I’m overreacting, huh?”

“Yes!” we all say and laugh.

“Oh, my goodness!”

We all turn and I see a lady walking up to us.

“Hello, Perline.” I’ve never seen my darling stiffen so quickly. She gives a small casual wave with her left hand, and it looks…strange…

“Perline!” Chiru greets, her left hang going to the center of her chest wit a nod and a small smile.

My memory clicks. I’ve seen this before! They are talking without talking-this is their code. I close my eyes briefly to remember when she was memorizing these gestures and saying them to herself. This woman is unliked and considered an enemy. I look to see Sara smile.

“You’re not here alone, are you?” Sophia asks tightly her left hand going to her chest as if she would be shocked if Perline was alone, doing the sign for foe. “If you are—”

“Oh, no, no,” Perline smiles. “Here with friends.” She looks down at me. “Oh, my God, you’re here with—”

I rise and greet her. “I’m Henry.” I shrug humbly, and shake her hand. “From the tea club?”

“Perline,” Perline gives a small frown. “We consider ourselves more than that.”

“My apologies,” I tilt my head to the right as a sign of agreement and moisten my bottom lip to apologize to my party. “Should I walk you back to your table?”

“Oh, thank you, but no,” Perline says. “My husband will wonder what I have been up to!”

Everyone laughs and I tilt my chin, then nod low to the left, inspiring more laughter at my table by calling her a gossip. “Ah.”

“I just wanted to extend invitations to you ladies,” Perline grins. “We are having a holiday tea before Christmas, and a fundraiser as well. If you submit your DNA, you will be given a present of your heritage and what is the most nutritious diet for you.”

“That sounds intriguing!” Sophia’s eyes go wide, looking at us.

Chiru touches Sophia’s shoulder and looks at us,then up at Perline. “Sounds like fun.”

“It’s a fundraiser, I must warn,” Perline says coyly. “It’s five hundred pounds, but for a good cause.”

“We’re in,” I say, nodding to them all. “Merry Christmas to all of you!”

“Well—” she gives us all a glance. “I’ll see you then.”

They squeal and brighten. Chiru and Sophia start talking about what they already know about their family trees. But, my darling sweet, she was quiet. I clear my throat.

“You know our code!” Chiru whispers over the table, a devious expression on her face.

“Shame on you,” Sophia blushes.

“Little devil.”

I wrinkle my nose, and moisten my bottom lip, tilting my head to the right. Sorry, it’s true.

[plant-flwrs]

Hi, so i was about to send a request, but my phone went all crazy and i don't know if it got send or not ): so here it goes again I was wondering if i could get a George x slytherin reader after the war, where they're dating but all his family disapproves because she had like this "bad reputation", so he gets sad and angry because this boy is super in love with her, and she is like super reserved so his family don't trust her, but she is actually such a sweetheart with him.

family is complicated // george weasley

masterlist!

a/n: this was so hard writing the weasleys as mean people omg. i love reading fics where everyone is happy at the burrow and molly is an angel so this was like tearing me apart lol. hope you like it!!

summary: The Weasley’s have never liked George’s girlfriend, and one snide remark makes George finally lose it.

also a disclaimer! family turmoil and drama ahead, so if that’s triggering to anyone, don’t read this one! <3

(3.5k)

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The sun was hidden away, tucked behind the dark clouds that littered the sky in London. It wouldn’t have mattered anyways, as the heavy curtains to your flat were drawn closed.

The sheets were in a pool around your ankles and your body shivered tirelessly. George always got warm at night and had a habit of kicking off the blankets in his sleep. You clung onto him, trying to collect some of his warmth that oozed from his shirtless chest.

Your eyes opened, feeling awfully heavy in their sockets. You didn’t want to wake up, you didn’t want to get out of bed, you didn’t want to get ready, and you didn’t want to go to the Burrow.

The Weasleys were nice to everyone but you, it felt like. They welcomed Harry, Hermione, and Angelina with open arms, but you and Fleur were the spousal outcasts. The two of you bonded over it quite often, trying to make jokes of it, but really it bothered you both quite deeply. The only difference between you and the other spouses was the green tie you wore around your neck for seven years. You hardly found that to be reason enough for the whole family to dislike you, but they didn’t.

You turned away from your boyfriend, bringing the blankets up from your ankles and wrapping them tightly around yourself. You pushed your face deeper into the pillow, hoping that if you slept all day you wouldn’t have to do the adult thing of going to your boyfriend’s family house. 

George lifted the blankets from his side, moving under them with you. He glanced at the clock on your bedside table, and saw no harm in sleeping a little longer. His warm arms found their place around you, and the two of you fell back asleep with the intentions of avoiding the Weasleys.

“They’re going to be late! I bet she’ll get him into some kind of trouble!” Ginny and the rest of her siblings could hear their mother’s shrieking voice from upstairs.

“They’re still not here?” Ginny turned to face Harry, rolling over in the small bed they shared the previous night.

“ ‘Spose not,” he mumbled bringing two heavy hands to his face and blocking out the sunlight creeping into the room.

“No wonder,” Ginny said, sitting up slowly in bed, “I wouldn’t feel inclined to come if I were her.”

“Well, George loves her,” Harry defended, finding the conversation to be one they had often.

Harry was never one to befriend Slytherins in school, but his maturing age made him able to see past the house’s reputation. He knew you couldn’t be evil if George liked you so much.

“I know he does,” Ginny snapped, “but that doesn’t make her any less,” Ginny trailed off, unable to find the right words for a moment, “weird.”

Harry sighed, feeling awake after the conversation. He brought his feet to the cold wooden floor of Ginny’s childhood room, and placed his glasses on his face. The two went down for breakfast.

“When do you think they’ll grace us with their presence?” Fred teased from his spot next to Angelina at the table.

“Whenever she feels like it,” Mr. Weasley grumbled from the head of the table, his eyes locked on the newspaper in front of him.

Fred groaned, rolling his eyes. He quite liked you. He thought that if his brother liked you, then he should too, and he had no reason to dislike you. Your ‘bad reputation’ that his mother likes to bring up so often, was for the same reason he and George had a ‘bad reputation’. You and George shared a love for mischief, and the Weasleys disapproved.

“When did you tell them to come, mum?” Bill asked from his spot next to Fleur.

Fleur was the one who wanted to know, but she had learned it was better to let Bill do the talking for her with Mrs. Weasley.

“Around supper,” she replied, moving to stand behind Bill and fidget with his long hair. He jerked from his mother’s prying hands.

“Then why are you expecting them to be here now?” Fred asked, ignoring Angelina’s warning graze on his knee.

“Everyone else is!” Mrs. Weasley defended.

“Yeah, but you didn’t tell them to get here when everyone else was,” Fred continued, giving his mother a confused look.

“You eat your breakfast, young man, and stop worrying about what I said or didn’t say,” she yelled, darting back into the kitchen to get another pan full of eggs.

Fred caught Bill’s and Fleur’s eyes from across the table and they all looked annoyed. 

You and George finally managed to roll out of bed a little after noon. The two of you stumbled down the cold streets hand in hand, still in your pajamas. You were in search of something to eat for lunch, even though you were both due at the Burrow in a couple of hours. You hated going with an empty stomach, because when you would load your plate up with Molly’s wonderful cooking, she would send you glares. You also hated going on a full stomach, because when you didn’t fill your plate with Molly’s wonderful cooking, she would send you glares. You rather her think you didn’t like her cooking than give her the opportunity to comment on your eating habits. You would watch Ginny shovel serving after serving into her mouth, and all Molly would do is pinch her cheeks and call her adorable. 

You had gotten used to the criticisms pretty early on. You and George were an odd pairing, so you didn’t expect an immediate connection to the family. However, you had figured that after five years they may have warmed up to you, but sadly they hadn’t.

George pulled you into a small café by your hand, leading you to a secluded table by the window. The two of you put in your orders, and enjoyed the serenity before having to go to what was now both your least favorite place.

You wore a flattering sweater tucked into some smart pants. Clasping a delicate gold necklace George had given you for your anniversary last year, you called out to him to see if he was ready.

He came out of the bathroom, hands busy with buttoning his shirt. He was nervous, he usually was when he saw his family these days, and his hands had a shake in them.

“Here,” you said soothingly, running your hands over the wrinkles in the shirt and moving his hands away.

You finished buttoning the shirt, and George admired you.

Here you were, comforting him, when it was you his family didn’t like. You were willing to make more of an effort than his family ever did, and he loved you so much for that.

You stepped away from him, and his fingers moved up to brush a stray piece of hair out of your eyes. His rough fingertips grazed the top of your ear as he tucked away the hair. His hand fell down to the necklace you wore, and he twisted it in his fingers,

“I love you,” he whispered, blinking slowly, as if he were trying to remember this moment forever.

George always had the fear that any trip home could be the end for the two of you. He loved you, and he knew you loved him, but he couldn’t blame you if the hatred got too much for you. 

“I love you too, Georgie,” you smiled up at him, forcing away the nausea pooling in your gut.

You went to your fireplace, checking the clock on the wall to make sure you weren’t too early and not too late. The both of you erupted in green flames, and soon the delightful smells of a homecooked meal flooded your nose.

“George!” Ron called from his spot on the couch, spotting you two first.

“Hey,” George responded in a voice you knew was trying to sound happy but came out shaky.

You stepped from the fireplace, and Molly rushed from the kitchen with her apron still on.

“My baby!” she wrapped her arms around George, pulling away and cupping his face with her hand.

He smiled down at her, and you recognized the nerves in the smile.

“Hi, Mrs. Weasley,” you said from beside George, waving and smiling shyly at her.

“Hello,” she started, already looking for something about you to be displeased with.

“Y/n! George!” Bill called, entering the house with Fleur trailing behind him.

You knew they liked to escape to the garden when they had to spend any amount of prolonged time at the Burrow, you and George joined them some times.

“Hi!” you said excitedly, not missing Molly’s scowl in the corner of your eyes.

Bill wrapped his long arms around you, hugging you like a brother. You released him and hugged Fleur next. Those would probably be the only Weasley’s that offered you a hug, as per usual.

“Where’s Fred?” George asked once he was released by his father’s arms.

“He and Angelina went upstairs for a nap a few hours ago,” Molly said, rushing back into the kitchen.

“Did you want any help, Mrs. Weasley?”  she turned on her heal, gave you a fake smile, and shook her head.

If anyone else had called her Mrs. Weasley, she would have insisted they call her Molly, but not you.

“A nap? Blimey, how old are they?” George joked.

Laughs echoed around the room, and George wrapped an arm around your waist.

The two of you stood in the living room next to Bill and Fleur, talking with Ron, Harry, and Hermione on the couch.

“Fred tells us the shops going well?” Harry said, looking to George.

“Yeah, we’re doing alright,” George replied modestly. You flickered your eyes up at him, admiring him from where you stood tucked into his side. The shop was doing amazing, it was more successful than it had ever been.

“How’s your work, Y/n?” Hermione asked politely, and an awkward haze fell across the room as they all looked at you.

No one usually addressed you at Weasley family gatherings, so you were caught off guard.

“Good,” you choked out, clearing your throat and furrowing your brow, “it’s good.”

“She was just promoted,” George said proudly from beside you, nudging a finger into your side, “that Slytherin ambition of hers.”

“Really? Congratulations,” Harry said, the first and only person to say anything.

Bill and Fleur didn’t say anything because they already knew. The four of you had taken up having dinners at your flat sometimes, finding it better for all of you than the large gatherings at the Burrow.

“George!” Fred bellowed from the staircase.

He hugged his brother, hitting him on the back as they embraced. You smiled politely at Angelina, who nodded her head curtly at you.

“Y/n!” Fred said once he released George, hugging you.

Angelina’s eyes bore into Fred’s back as he did, but he didn’t care.

You smiled brightly at Fred, feeling relieved to have his happiness there. He and George were always the first to stick up for you when it came to Molly.

“Dinner!”

You all gathered around three tables put together in the garden, watching as dishes of food were levitated across the table. You served yourself food, catching Mrs. Weasley watching you with a critical eye from her spot at the head of the table.

Conversation flowed, though you, George, Fleur, and Bill generally kept to yourselves.

Bill sat at the other head of the table, with Fleur to his right and you to his left. George sat next to you, and the four of you talked like it was one of your usual dinners at your flat. It was better this way, less room for conflict.

All you had to do was make it through desert, which was moved into the house. That was it, one last meal and then you and George could say goodnight and be in the safety of your own home.

“Oh, I don’t think you want any of this dear,” Molly said to you, pulling away with a plate of cake in her hands,

“Mum,” George warned, holding his hand out for the plate while the other wrapped around your shoulders protectively.

You were never one to stop George from sticking up for you, which made Mrs. Weasley angrier. She looked to you, expecting you to give up the fight and not want any cake, but you looked right back at her with a blank look.

“She had an awful lot at dinner, George, she must be full.”

“Mum,” George said, louder and more angry.

“Don’t take that tone with your mother,” Mr. Weasley came from behind his wife, placing two comforting hands on her shoulders.

“Don’t speak to my girlfriend like that, and I won’t,” he responded, managing to sound somewhat calm, though a sharpness was in his tone.

“Excuse you?” Mr. Weasley questioned, his face becoming stern.

“George, let it go-” Ginny started from where she sat with Harry, the first one to take notice of the argument developing.

“No!” George said harshly to Ginny, whipping his head to look at her.

“What’s wrong?” Fred asked from behind you, shoveling cake into his mouth.

“Mum and dad are being rude to Y/n,” George started, looking accusingly at his parents, “for what? The millionth time?”

Mrs. Weasley gasped, putting down the cake on the counter next to her.

“George!” she exclaimed, prepared to make excusing defenses in her honor.

“It’s true mum,” Fred said from behind his brother, voice muffled by the cake in his mouth, “you’ve been, and usually are, quite rude to Y/n. And Fleur.”

You and Fleur made eye contact, both of your eyes widening as you realized tonight was the night where everything went to shit. No more passive aggressive comments, no more pretending everything was fine. After this, your invitation to the Burrow might be permanently revoked.

“He’s right, mum,” Bill’s cool voice said from beside Fleur, and everyone’s gaze shot to him, “you have it out for Y/n and Fleur.”

You stepped back, and George followed you, his arm still around you. It was like a triangle in the room, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley at the edge of the kitchen, Bill and Fleur by the fireplace, and you, George, and Fred edging nearer the staircase.

“I don’t know what you talking about,” Molly defended, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Yes you do,” George said, narrowing his eyes at his parents.

“It’s late,” Mr. Weasley said, “maybe you lot should go home now.”

George scoffed from beside you, unwrapping his arm from your shoulder and stepping forward.

“Okay, Fleur, Y/n, why don’t you two go back to our flat,” George said in a soothing voice, “and we’ll talk this out, like a family.”

You fought the proud smile that wanted to spread across your face, and nodded your head. Fred guided you to the fireplace with a hand on your back, and winked at you as you and Fleur erupted in green flames once again.

“Well, this is not going to end well,” you mumbled to Fleur once you got home, putting a kettle on the stove, preparing enough water for George and Bill if they eventually came back too.

The yelling coming from the Burrow was unlike anything the small village had ever heard. Shouts of anger drifted from the windows, and the intensity of the argument could be felt for miles.

“You have no right to treat them the way you do!” Bill shouted at his parents, and also casted an accusing glance at Ginny, Ron, Hermione, and Angelina. Harry had sunk into the couch, the only person still sitting as everyone else sprang to their feet. 

“She’s not right for him, and Fleur’s not right for you!” Molly screamed back.

“You don’t get to decide that! I love her, Bill loves Fleur. What’s different about them? You love Hermione, you love Angelina, you love Harry. Why should Y/n and Fleur have to get the shit end of your behavior!” George yelled, waving his hands frantically.

“Y/n doesn’t even try with us!” Ginny interrupted, stepping closer to George, “She just talks to you and Fleur!”

“Because none of you ever gave her a chance! She tried so hard the first time I brought her here, and you all made her leave crying!”

Ron and Harry felt a pang of guilt at the thought of the remarks they had made about Slytherins the first time George took you to the Burrow.

“I don’t trust her,” Molly said, her voice stern but quiet.

“I frankly don’t care, mum. I love her. If you’re going to make me choose, I’ll choose her. Every time. I love her,” George said, his voice lowered and shaky.

“Me too, I’ll choose Fleur,” Bill spoke up, moving his wand from his pocket to prepare to apparate. 

“Boys,” Arthur warned, stepping forwards and trying to soothe the situation, “don’t upset your mother.”

“Let them go! They’ve made their choices!” Molly pouted, moving to sit, defeated, at the table.

“Fine. Send me an owl if you ever come to your senses,” George said, moving towards the fireplace and picking up a handful of floo powder.

“Fleur and I have given you enough chances, don’t send us an owl. Goodbye,” Bill said finitely, apparating before anyone could say anything. 

George hesitated in the fireplace, meeting everyone’s guilty looking expression. No one spoke up, and he nodded towards Fred, saying goodbye. He was back home in seconds.

You and Fleur turned to the men who had both just appeared in your living room. Bill had tears running down his face, and Fleur went to him immediately. Fleur looked to you and you pointed down the hall towards you and George’s bedroom, allowing them a place to have some privacy. George fell onto the couch next to you, and you went to the kitchen to bring him a cup of tea.

“What happened?” you spoke in a soft tone,

George retold everything, and you felt your throat closing as tears threatened your eyes. 

“Oh, George,” you mumbled, taking his tea from his hands and placing it on the coffee table You held him, the both of you feeling exhausted. His upper body leaned into your lap, and you held his shoulders, soothing bits of his hair off his face.

You could hear the muffled voices of Bill and Fleur from your bedroom.

Suddenly, five people apparated into your living room. George sat up, and you grasped his hand as you looked at Harry, Ginny, Hermione, Ron, and Fred all standing awkwardly in your living room.

“Nice place,” Ron said suddenly, craning his neck to look around the room.

Neither you or George responded and Hermione nudged Ron with her elbow.

“Right, sorry,” he mumbled, his lips going into a thin line.

“We wanted to say something,” Fred said, breaking apart from the group and coming to sit with you and George on the couch.

He turned around, looking at the group.

“We’re sorry,” Harry said first, looking at you, “I should have never said those things about Slytherins, it was stupid and so was I.”

You swallowed hard, eyes downcast at the floor.

“So am I. I actually think you’re quite cool,” Ron said, sounding just as awkward as you remembered him to be in school.

“I never meant to make you feel uncomfortable. I’m sorry I stood back and let you get treated that way,” Hermione said next, and you met her sorrowful gaze. You nodded at her, returning your eyes to the floor.

Harry nudged Ginny, who reluctantly spoke, “I’m sorry too. If George loves you, then so do I.”

You smiled at the floor, nerves twisting in your stomach like they did when you first went to the Burrow.

“You guys were idiots,” George said sternly from besides you. 

Your shoulders shook, and George lifted your chin with his fingers. He met your eyes, afraid you were crying, but was happy to see you laughing.

You looked at the group, chuckling senselessly.

“Thank you,” you said, “it’s a shame you’ll have to do that whole bit again for Bill and Fleur, though.”

Everyone laughed, and the group hadn’t realized Bill and Fleur weren’t there anymore.

“Did they leave already?” Fred asked from beside you.

“No, there in our room for some privacy,” you answered, pointing a finger down the hall.

“Ah,” Fred said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“Not like that,” George reached behind you and hit the back of Fred’s head.

You stood, going to the kitchen and retrieving all the mugs you had in your cabinets.

“Need some help?” Ginny asked from behind you, Hermione by her side.

“Sure,” you smiled at them, and Ginny and Hermione moved into the kitchen.

They helped you carry out the hot cups of tea, placing them on the table. Bill and Fleur had emerged from the room, and were sat on the couch. You sat on the other side of Fleur, catching George’s eyes from where he sat on an armchair across from you.

He looked happy, finally being able to sit with his family and you in the same room without nerves plaguing his every thought.

[proserpina-magnus]

Hello can I request a James Potter blurb or one shot where he is married to a reader and she comes home from work really tired and sore and he helps her relax?

Love ya

this was a great request and i had so much fun writing it! I didn't know if this was a nsfw request or not, so I decided to make it sfw! I will probably make a part two that involves smut.  🌻 🌼 (also, I love you too!)

Exhausted [ James Potter ]

Word Count: 1839

[ Warning; fem reader, description of soreness/tiredness, slight mention of tits (undressing), undressing in front of James, getting dressed by James, back massages, SOFT JAMES POTTER ]

You shake your keys in the door, finally getting it open. You drop your stuff on the floor, kicking off your shoes with your tired feet. Your back aches, shoulders tightened. You hear James almost sprint through the house to get to the door, he immediately engulfs you in a big hug.

"How was work? I missed you," James is saying quickly, you don't even have time to hug him back as he is pulling away. His big hands place themselves on your shoulder, you almost cry at the feeling. James was sweet, he didn't try to purposely hurt you.

"Exhausting," you say, leaning your forehead onto his shoulder. You smell something cooking, it smelt absolutely delightful. You almost groan at the smell, James was such a good cook.

James pulls you back gently, eyes scanning your face. He sees your tired eyes, the way your lips can't even form into a smile. Your eyes look into his, a gentle look in them.

"What hurts love?" He asks, instantly picking up on your body language. You lean back into his arms, knowing he wouldn't let you fall.

"Everything," you expressed, letting your eyes close. James was kissing your lips gently, he was holding back. He never wanted to hurt you.

"I'll run you a bath, come on," James says, you open your eyes to watch where you're walking. Before you can even take a step, James's arm comes behind your knees as he hosts you up into his chest.

"James, put me down," you tried to sound assertive, but James was bigger and persistent. He walked you to the bathroom.

James didn't respond, only humming a quiet tune. He sets you down on the counter, patting your thigh gently.

He starts the faucet, checking the temperature of the water before nodding to himself reassuringly. He grabs the bubble mixture, pouring it with his heart.

"Bubbles," he mumbled happily, of course, James Potter would have to say 'bubbles' when pouring actual bubbles. He was the absolute cutest.

Once the bath was full, he turns the faucet off. You've already shifted out of your blouse and bra, completely bare except for your bottom.

James's eyes landed on your chest, before adverting them back to your eyes. He had to resist the urge to say "tits", out of respect. He helps you slip out of your skirt and panties, picking you up again.

He places you softly into the bubble bath, the warmth consuming you. You instantly let out an appreciated groan, sinking further into the feeling. Your muscles hurt for a moment, but relax after a few moments.

"Alright Mrs.Potter, you stay here and relax, I'll get you some comfy clothes," James says, leaning down to kiss you. You're surprised he hadn't joined you in the bath, but James always made sure to take care of you before he even thought about himself.

"James, can I wear your red jumper? The one with the deer?" You asked him, James was halfway through the door but he turned back to answer you.

"They're not deer, they're stags! But of course, anything you want," James winked on instinct, a small chuckle slipping past your lips.

You watch as James escapes out of your line of sight, his footsteps disappearing into your bedroom.

You take a moment to relax, tension slipping away. Your body aches for a second before the warm water washes the ache away. You let out a smile, feeling good.

When James returned with your clothes, he placed them down against the counter. Then got out a warm and soft towel, placing it next to your clothes.

"How ya' feeling love?" He asked, sinking onto his knees. His hand came through your hair, brushing it back gently.

"Sore and tired, but the bath is helping. Thank you, James," you say, leaning into his hand. He smiles, continuing to brush your hair between his fingers.

"Don't thank me, it's my responsibility to take care of you, I love you," James explains, he positions you slightly in the middle of the tub. He reaches for a cup, scooping up warm water as he runs it through your hair.

You completely soften at the feeling, your eyes shutting on impulse. A pleasant hum leaves your lips, James places his free hand against your back to keep you upright.

"I love you so much," you gushed, absolutely adoring the attention he was giving you. He handled you so well, it made you feel loved.

James chuckled, kissing the space between your ear and eye. For a few more minutes he washed your hair, then moves to run a cloth over your skin.

He cleans you up slowly, making sure to get every inch of your body. You relax into his hands completely, almost falling asleep.

"Alright, I'm gonna finish dinner. I'll come get you when I'm finished," James says while standing up, tossing the cloth to the hamper.

"What are you making?" You ask, eyes closed as you sink against the tub. Wiggling your toes under the water, smiling to yourself.

"Your favourite," James chimes, a smile on his face as he sees your relaxed state.

"I'm so in love with you," you express, happy that you landed such a wonderful husband.

"I'm so in love with you too, darling," James chuckles, blowing you a small kiss before going to finish supper. The smell travels through the house, making your stomach gurgle.

After minutes of pure relaxation, James walks into the bathroom. He strokes your cheek with his knuckles briefly, a look of adoration on his face.

You drain the tub, standing up tiredly as a soft towel gets wrapped around you. You lean against James, stepping out of the tub with his hand on your back.

James takes another smaller towel, drying your hair briefly and the rest of your body that isn't covered by the towel.

"Will you dress me?" You ask, leaning against the counter as you hold the towel closer around your body. James smiles, kissing your forehead.

"Of course, love,"  he says, helping you into your panties. This should feel embarrassing, but James makes you feel so safe and comfortable.

"No bra," you say, pushing it away as you drop the towel. James laughs, grabbing the shirt as he tosses the bra back onto the counter.

"Alright, no bra," James comments, helping you into the shirt. It clings slightly to your body, your hair soaking the fabric.

James leans down, pulling the sweat pants up your legs. He tucks the shirt into your pants then pulls his jumper over your body.

"Let's go eat dinner, it's already set on the table," James says, picking you up effortlessly. You let him, leaning your head on his shoulder as he takes you to the table.

He places you in a chair, hot food in front of you. He sits next to you, his hand coming to rest on your thigh.

"This looks delicious James, thank you," you say, taking a bite. It melts into your mouth, making you groan in luxury. "This tastes amazing!" You continued, shoving another piece into your mouth.

"I'm glad you're pleased," James blushes, waving his hand at your compliment. It doesn't take long until the plates are cleared.

James stands up first, taking your used dishes and his. He plops them in the sink, waving his wand, the magic starts to clean.

"Come on," James said, picking you up in his arms again. You wrap your arms around his neck, turning your head to see where he's leading you.

"Where are you taking me?" You asked, James walked down the hall. You could hear the clinking of the dishes being washed.

"To the bedroom, I'll give you a massage," James states, walking into the bedroom. He plopped you down on the bed, you rolled onto your back.

"James I don't need a massage," you say, eyes squinting at him. Your body almost screams at your words, you definitely needed a good massage and James could tell.

"Yes you do and I'm happy to give it to you," James ended the debate quickly, taking your elbow into his hand as he flips you over on your stomach.

James passed you a pillow, making you comfy. You rest your head against it, letting your arms come up to grab the pillow.

His hands came to the top of your shoulders, his fingers pressing into your clothed flesh. You inhaled, feeling the pent-up tension leak further away from you. James continued to massage your body, his palms pressing in places you didn't know you needed release.

"Oh god James," you mumbled, eyes twitching as you feel him press firmly into a certain sore spot.

"See, you needed a massage," James chuckled, continue to work against your muscle. He massaged it until you felt nothing but goosebumps. The massage you were given was making you see stars, your eyes rolled back into your head multiple times.

Hums left your throat, feeling his hands press against your shoulders once again. He rolled his thumb over the intercept between your shoulder and neck. You groaned out, hearing James's small giggles at your response.

After a few moments, you leaned up on your elbows. Your body almost fell back down against the mattress, you felt completely numb.

"No more, I'm gonna fall asleep," you say, breathing in slowly. You pulled away, rubbing your eyes to try and rub the sleep away.

"You sure? Cause I can do this all night,"  James alleged, he watched as you turned onto your back.

"No, that's okay. Thank you, it felt nice," you mumble, opening up your arms as you made grabby hands to him. James smiled, wrapping you in his strong embrace.

"Your welcome, I'm glad I could help you relax," James cheers, kissing your jaw sweetly. You giggle at the ticklish feeling, you pulled him closer as you wrapped your legs around him.

"I love being married to you," you say, James, pulled back, kissing your cheek sloppily.

"I know, I'm kinda the best," James claimed, gigging. He let his head slip and press against your shoulder blade.

"James shush," you giggled with him, your hand roaming in his bush of hair. It was an absolute mess, tangles and curls everywhere.

"You tired baby?" He asked, pulling back to look at your face. He analyzed your expression, seeing the way you fought to keep your eyes open.

"Mmh," you mumbled, you didn't even make out a word, only a weird little hum. James adored it, finding your tired state cute.

"Go to sleep love," James whispered, using wand-less magic as the lights turned off. Your eyes didn't even get to adjust to the darkroom, you had slipped fast asleep instantly.

James smiled gently, helping you under the covers. He crawled under them himself, bringing your body to his. He rubbed your back gently, slipping his hand under your clothes to feel your skin. He felt content, having his wife asleep in his arms. He felt proud.

[shyficwriter]

Temporary Home: Chapter 7

Guardians of the Galaxy fanfic | Reader x Guardians (With Yondu and Kraglin!)

Summary: Peter is determined to chip your shell away, but unfortunately, his attempts only seem to annoy you. He might need to step up his game, and by that he means recruiting Mantis, which backfires on him. This could be the start of a war, if Yondu knows what he's talking about.

Previous Chapter here | Next Chapter Here Or click here to: Start From Beginning

Author’s Note: I got a suggestion from @maribatshipper to add a scene where some actual raccoons get in the trash and Rocket finally sees a raccoon. I love the idea but I unfortunately didn't get a chance to add it to this chapter as it was finished before I saw the suggestion (I'll probably add it later, don't worry! lol) Anyways, it gave me an idea. What's some stuff you guys would like to see happen in this story? I do already know the direction of the story, but this could also be fun!

Word Count: 3,729

You were going to kill Peter. Probably Kraglin too.

It started maybe a couple hours after "the smelly incident," as you had mentally dubbed it, had resolved.

Peter got bored, found some old DVDs in the cabinet below the TV, and when he recognized a movie from when he was a kid, SpaceBalls, he managed to convince you to watch it with them.

He might have also quietly pulled the "unless you're too shy..." card for the thousandth time, and you might have told him it was getting old and he was working his way towards a black eye, but you did agree to watch the film with them. Peter had somehow convinced everyone else to watch the movie, too. Might have had something to do with the fact that no one exactly had anything better to do.

Kraglin sat at on one end of the sofa, Gamora on the other, and Peter & you were sandwiched in the middle, him next to Gamora and you next to Kraglin. Mantis, Rocket and Groot sat on the floor, while Drax and Yondu took the armchairs at either side of the sofa.

Only you and Peter got the Star Wars references, of course, but there were plenty of parts the others found funny even without it. Rocket mostly laughed about how Terrans didn't understand space at all if you thought that's how things worked, and compared Peter to the main character, Lone Star. He meant it in a derogatory way, of course.

At about the scene where Dark Helmet breaks the 4th wall with the line, "What the hell am I looking at? When does this happen in the movie?" Peter had started to notice that you didn't laugh openly like everyone else. You always covered your mouth like you were trying to stifle it, despite no one else bothering to be quiet, least of all Drax, who laughed loudly at parts that weren't even that funny.

That simply wouldn't do. You should be laughing freely with the others, like you did when Kraglin and Rocket got tangled up in the hose, which was probably the only time he had seen a genuine full laugh from you, now that he thought of it. To him, this was evidence that he was right, you needed to break that shell of yours and learn how to loosen up.

Annnd... if that required a little mischief on his part... well then so be it.

He waited a bit, just to see if you'd eventually let yourself relax, but when you just kept biting your lip not to laugh and covering your mouth when you started to, he decided he'd 'help' you along.

The scene came on where Dark Helmet's men were combing the dessert with a literal giant comb, and seeing you trying to stifle another laugh, Peter decided to poke you in the side.

You tried to stifle your squeak and you glared at him, but he just shrugged innocently. Poke you? Never... Doesn't sound like him...

He spaced a couple more pokes within the next few minutes of the film, making you jump and hiss at him to stop. He grinned at you and whispered he thought you could use some help laughing, since it seemed you had forgotten how. The little shit.

You irritably whisper back, "That's not gonna work, I'm not-"

Peter rolled his eyes playfully and replied, "Yeah. Sure. Not ticklish. You've said. Too bad I don't believe you." He made to poke you again and you pinched him hard on the arm, which you admit was childish, but he deserved it for annoying you. He gave you a pouty look in response and then frowned when Gamora scolded him and told him to quit behaving like a child.

You sat back and thought he'd finally quit.

And he might have, seeing that it wasn't quite working as he hoped, but Kraglin, who of course noticed your flinching and the childish bickering between you and Peter, caught Peter's eye and they shared a look. He wanted in on the fun. Movie wasn't all that interesting to him anyways.

Five minutes later you received a poke from each of them simultaneously, making your arms clamp to your sides. You turn your head from side to side to glare at both of them. Quietly threatening to break their fingers if they didn't straighten up and just watch the movie.

Based on their expressions it was clear they didn't take you seriously, but they seemed to back off... for about another ten minutes. That's when they decided to poke you again and you jerked up off the sofa with a "That's it." and moved to sit down on the floor next to Mantis where you knew you were out of their reach.

Gamora smacked Peter in the arm for annoying you off the sofa, but no one paid much mind or reacted with more than a glance as they were paying attention to the movie. Well, except for Yondu, who had fallen asleep and was now snoring softly in his chair.

Peter was slightly disappointed that you hadn't been able to let your guard down, but he wasn't deterred. In fact, he was more determined to not just chip at your shell, but shatter it. There was someone who liked to have fun in there, and he was determined to find them and pull them out.

Thankfully, you were able to finish the rest of the movie unbothered. Rocket complained about the sappy ending where Lone Star and the Princess marry, but then Mantis said she thought it was sweet and he waved her off, grumbling about how she thought everything was sweet, or cute, or whatever...

After the movie you decided to go out to the shed and apply the varnish to the bed frame, and when you came back inside to wash some of the varnish off your hands you were startled when Kraglin snuck up behind you to poke you in the ribs. He dodged just in time to avoid being smacked and ran out of the kitchen, his giggles joined by Peter's in the hall.

You sighed, now thinking you should have taken more time in the shed with the varnish. Maybe cooking something would keep you busy enough, but what would you cook? Your first thought was that lasagna would likely feed everyone, but then you remembered the cheese and you were not about to have a repeat of that morning. You were sure the hairs inside your nose were singed-off forever.

You walk out the kitchen door to catch the men still giggling in the hall and they jump from the unexpected sight of you, probably thinking you had come out to properly smack them for deliberately annoying you. You look at them, unamused, and say, "Supper will be in about an hour if you want it. If there's anything else any of you can't eat you should probably tell me now."

Peter and Kraglin exchanged looks before Peter turned back to you and said, "If there is, we don't know it yet."

Kraglin nodded and added, "Not a lot of experience with Terran food, ma'am."

You cringe slightly at being called ma'am, but give a short nod. "Well, here's hoping I don't poison anyone again," you say, turning to head back to the kitchen. You are stopped when another poke to your waist makes you jump and you turn back with a hand raised to smack him.

Peter recoils with a laugh and says, "Just wondering if you'd like any help in the kitchen?"

You narrow your eyes. "Nope. Think you two better stay out here. Clearly can't trust you not to annoy me." You can hear their chuckles as you walk back into the kitchen.

Mercifully, they left you alone all through the cooking and eating of dinner, (you had decided to make a stew). Well, they left you alone physically, that is. Throughout dinner they kept attempting jokes, and it was obvious they were aiming them at you in an attempt to get you to laugh. Most of them fell flat, however, because most of the jokes Kragin told hinged on you knowing about creatures or other stuff not from Earth that you'd have not any way of knowing the context for to make the joke make sense. The others seemed to get the jokes and find them funny though, so at least they seemed to be enjoying themselves. Better than awkward silence any day.

Peter was able to tell a few jokes with Earth references that you could understand, but they were such old jokes that anyone who didn't live in a cave would have already heard them before they finished primary school, so you didn't really laugh at his either. You did, however, smile politely, assuming that they were only trying to be friendly.

After dinner you started to get ready to wash the dishes, and Gamora offered to help.

"No thank you, I've got them tonight." you say, taking the couple of bowls she had gathered and put them in the sink.

"You sure? You cooked for us, it doesn't seem right to let you clean up by yourself too."

"Don't worry, I'm not going to make a habit of it, just... some nights I like to have something to keep me busy, ya know?" You turn on the tap and start washing the dishes. You hated to admit it, but that boiler Fury replaced your immersion with had proven to be very helpful with eight extra people in the house. If you didn't know better you'd say it was magic. Somehow there was just always hot water. You willed yourself not to get too used to it, however. No one had said, but surely SHIELD was just temporarily loaning it until the Guardians finally were able to go back home. You couldn't imagine them just giving you an upgrade like that to keep forever.

"Ok," Gamora relented, not wanting to push it. She could tell you probably still needed a bit more time before you could fully relax. "Thanks for supper."

"Don't mention it," you say, not looking up as you sudsed a bowl.

Gamora nodded and walked out of the kitchen, passing Peter, Kraglin and Mantis on her way into the sitting room. They looked like they were conspiring something, but as a general rule, she didn't get involved in Peter's shenanigans. That meant that unless it was going to directly annoy her, or possibly injure someone else, she pretended not to notice.

She had been right, they were conspiring. Well, Peter and Kraglin had been, Mantis was just along for the ride. With nothing better to do, the two men decided they'd put their energy towards continuing to mess with you, however, it was clear that they needed to get smarter about their approach if they didn't want to risk a black eye.

So they deployed Mantis.

It didn't take much to convince Mantis to do it either. It literally just took Peter asking Mantis if she wanted to play a game and she agreed.

In truth Peter was testing a theory. He watched from the kitchen door with Kraglin as they sent Mantis in to do the poking while you washed the dishes.

She poked, you jumped and spun to face her, clearly thinking it was one of the guys, and then the irritation softened from your face as you realized it was her and all she got was a mild scolding. Mantis looked back and Kraglin encouraged her to do it again with an enthusiastic nod.

This time she fluttered her fingers at your waist from both sides like she had the other day, making you jump again, and, with what sounded suspiciously to the guys to be a poorly suppressed giggle in your voice, you scolded her again and shooed her away.

Theory confirmed. You couldn't bring yourself to try and smack her away like you had with them. Good. He could work with that. Use your soft spot for her against you.

This time they motioned Mantis to come back.

She meets them at the doorway and on her way out whispers, "Did I do a good job?"

Peter smiles, "Yes. You did great. Hey, I want to show you a trick..."

***

A bit later you walked into the sitting room and Mantis calls you over to the table, saying she wants to show you a trick.

She's sitting with Peter, Kraglin, and Gamora, and you walk over hesitantly, wondering if Gamora's presence meant you could assume you'd be safe from mischief or not, seeing as she normally swatted at or scolded Peter for being annoying.

Once you reached the table Mantis stood and encouraged you to take a seat. You pull out a chair at the end of the table and sit, only to be instructed by Mantis to turn and face her.

You eye her suspiciously and then turn to Gamora. "Am I going to regret this?" you ask, your eyes moving to Peter and Kraglin who sat across from her, shrugging and shaking their heads. You were sure you could only trust them about as far as you could throw them, but Gamora appeared to genuinely have no idea what Mantis wanted to show you, so you decided to just play along. How bad could it be?

Mantis instructed you to hold out your hand for her, and you did as asked. She then held your hand palm up and placed her thumb at the tip of your middle finger, and rested the tip of her own middle finger where the palm of your hand met your wrist, as if she were measuring the distance with her own hand.

She then released your hand and moved the hand she used to measure the length of your hand with to your knee, placing her thumb on your kneecap and lowering the tip of her middle finger to rest on your thigh above the knee.

"What are you doing?" you ask, suspicion and confusion in your voice.

Mantis looked up to meet your gaze. She smiled happily and said, "I'm distracting you for this!"

You raise an eyebrow but before you could wonder much about it she squeezed your leg where her middle finger had been resting, sending a tickly jolt through your body and making you jerk in your seat and your breath catch in your throat.

You grasp for her wrist to push her away, but then she just attacked your other leg with her other hand. "Mantis! No!" you squeak, squirming in your seat and flailing for her hands. Every time you'd grab for one hand, she'd free her other hand and send ticklish pokes and squeezes wherever she could reach.

She was was a little stronger and quicker than she looked, so it made the task of restraining her hands difficult for you. You did your best to hold back any laughter as you flinched and jerked from your torment. You could hear Peter laughing and telling her 'good job,' and Kraglin encouraging her to continue, which she did, happily giggling the whole time.

"Peter!" you half scold/half beckon.

"Yes?" he asked teasingly, folding his hands under his chin with a cheeky grin. Gamora rolled her eyes and tried to shake her head disapprovingly at him, but she couldn't help grinning. Mantis just looked so playful and it was honestly adorable.

"Will you-AEK" you squeak as she darted a hand and squeezed at your waist before you could stop her, "Will you make her stop!"

"Thought you weren't ticklish?" Kraglin said with a teasingly smug grin. "That shouldn't bother you at all then. I don't see a problem."

Gamora sighed with a smile at the two men. So that's what this was about. They must have put Mantis up to this.

"Dammit!" you jerk again as Mantis landed another squeeze above your knee. "I'm- I'm not- I'm-" you were having managing words, because each time you attempted, you were cut off by another poke or squeeze from Mantis, and you were afraid you would start laughing if you allowed yourself to talk through it. You were already having a hell of a time trying not to smile, and failing.

"I swear, if you actually say you're not ticklish right now, Pete and I will pin you down and prove that you are." Kraglin threatened with an evil grin.

"Kraglin!" Gamora scolded with furrowed brow, but her warning wasn't taken too seriously on account of the humor laced in her voice.

"What? She's the one being so stubborn she can't admit it!" Kraglin laughed. As far as he was concerned, you deserved it for fibbing. Plus, wouldn't kill you to loosen up a bit- you could be... well, scary... sometimes. Although it was kinda hard to think of you as scary at the moment while you were spasming in a chair as you kept trying to get a hold on Mantis's quick hands and a grin more than threatened to crack your face.

You could feel your cheeks getting warm, hating showing signs of weakness, but knowing you didn't have much choice at the moment. "Ok! Fine!" you cry out, still grappling at Mantis's hands and biting back any giggles that threatened to spill out. You knew when you were beat. It was pretty damn obvious that you couldn't deny being ticklish anymore, and you sure as hell weren't about to give them a reason to actually properly tickle the snot out of you. You wouldn't stand a chance.

"Fine... what?" Peter chuckled in a sing-song voice and leaned on the table.

You could kill him. "Fine! I'm ticklish, okay!? I admit it! Are you happy now!?" Just then Mantis managed to free both hands and briefly tweak your ribs before you got a grip on her wrists again, finally getting a short laugh to escape your throat as you spasmed in your chair. "Will you call her off now, please!?" Gods, this was embarrassing. You didn't know how, but they were so going to pay for this.

Peter and Kraglin high-five and Peter says, "Alright, Mantis, good job."

Mantis stood and clasped her hands, giggling and saying how that was so much fun, and you half-heartedly glare up at her before standing so you could get out of there, but not before turning to aim a glare at Peter and Kraglin. The jackasses.

When you turn back you notice Yondu leaning on the back of the sofa looking amused and you cringe, asking, "How long have you been standing there?"

Yondu folded his arms and pretended to think. "Hmm... Long enough to hear the boys threaten to tickle ya silly and then see ya fold like a cheap tent." Humor twinkled in his eyes and you wanted to melt into the floor.

You inhale and look to the ceiling, your cheeks burning. Your expression then turned mischievous. Vengeance. Now.

"Mantis?" you say, turning back to face her.

"Yes?" she answers, smiling wide and sweetly.

You put on your best, most innocent face. "Ya know, maybe you should do that to Peter. Or Kraglin. Why should they miss out on the fun?" Your eyes flick to the pair menacingly to see Peter looking at you like you just shot him.

Mantis giggles and goes to take your suggestion, bouncing to their side of the table. Peter bolted from his chair, saying, "Mantis- wait a minute!" and tried to run around the table, getting slowed down when Kraglin tripped him, mostly likely to save himself as he also stood to get out of Mantis's way, grabbing her by the shoulders and spinning her in Peter's direction when it looked like she was going after him. Unfortunately for Peter, he didn't get much further after Kraglin tripped him as Gamora effortlessly caught him by the arm and then laughed as she held him in place and he complained.

You turned back to Yondu with a satisfied smile and started to walk past him to leave when he leaned over to speak in a low tone as you got near. "Hope ya know that was a mistake, girl," he chuckled.

"What?" you say, surprised. Peter could be heard laughing and pleading with Mantis and Gamora behind you.

He grinned wider. "If there's anythin' I know about that boy, ya just declared war. An' if that ain't bad enough, now yer stuck in a house with him, and my first mate who ain't got nothin better to do."

"Ah." Your voice cracks, your eyes widening, nervousness creeping into your belly. "Well surely they wouldn't hold a grudge- I mean, they started it-"

He straightened back up and chuckled, shaking his head knowingly. "Jus' figured I should give ya a heads up. Do with it what ya will. Boy's partial to pranks when it comes to revenge. Might wanna be on the lookout for buckets of water above your doorways tomorrow. Or grease in your boots. That used to be Quill's go-to." Mirth glistened in his eyes and made you unsure if this warning was out of the goodness of his heart or if he enjoyed seeing the 'oh shit' look on your face.

You swallowed. Fuck. Just what you needed. A war. You decided it might be a good idea to get out before Peter could escape, or before Kraglin could decide to avenge his friend. "Well I'm going to go to bed now." Your voice was a little higher than you'd like and you could hear Yondu chuckling as you scarpered.

He knew it was more likely you were going to hide than going to sleep. It was barely dark out.

Yondu shook his head and walked to take a seat on the couch, still chuckling at the flicker of fear in your eyes when he told you that you had started a war. He switched on the TV and idly wondered who'd give up first. He'd gotten the impression that you wouldn't be one to back down, despite the nervousness present on your face.

You may have the advantage of being on home turf, but Quill could be relentless. More than likely you were fucked, but it'd be interesting to see how it all played out.

You might surprise him.

[thetriggeredhappy]

(I love all of your writings) one of Scout's voice lines literally broke my heart. The one in the Birthday mode which said that no one came to his birthday :"((( the fact that he called everyone his best friends make it sadder. Can you write about that a little bit. I know that you have written about his birthday before but can you do one more pleaseeeeeee

birthday boy time

(warnings for alcohol mention, mention of violence, and injury)

-

“Happy birthday, lad,” Demo greeted, clapping him on the shoulder as he passed by. Scout lit up, calling back a greeting in return.

Call him a sap, but he hadn’t quite given up on having fun birthdays yet. He’d heard it a hundred times from most of the rest of the team, that you stop focusing so much on your birthday when you get older, but not this guy. Scout was determined to actually have a nice birthday.

That being said, he knew by then, after those first few years working with the team, that they had a bit of a history of not necessarily being 100% on board with doing a whole thing purely because someone was a year older, and he mostly settled for bugging some of the team into going out for drinks or ordering a bunch of pizza and playing board games, stuff like that. A hundred times more low-key than what he’d do if they were in Boston, but hey, he took what he could get, and it usually ruled anyways.

To be honest, he didn’t even really have plans that year. He’d said as much when he was asked earlier that week. It was the middle of the week, not all that close to the weekend, so going out with everyone was pretty much off the table, as was getting drunk considering they all had work the day after. He was gonna head into town and get himself a gift, that was most of his plan, maybe hang out with everyone later on too. He’d been saving his money for a while, a just-in-case fund that he’d been working on for a few years, a luxury he didn’t have growing up, and didn’t tend to spend much money on himself outside of snack food and Bonk and sometimes comic books or little things like that. It would be nice to get himself something he really liked. That alone was plenty of excitement. Not an adrenaline kind, just a regular, nice sort of thing.

Overall, he was honestly just thrilled that apparently everyone actually remembered this year, greeted all morning by similar casual “hey, happy birthday”s, including a particularly excited one from Pyro, who hugged him and spun him in a few circles outright. He had plenty of time next year to do some really sick birthday stuff, but overall, he was just gonna chill out, treat himself for once, and relax.

-

“Alright everyone,” the Engineer said grimly, half an hour previously, casting a look around the room. “Here’s the plan.”

The team minus their fastest member were all gathered around the debriefing table, and this time, rather than Miss Pauling with official orders or Soldier with the latest new strategy, it was the Engineer standing up front holding a piece of chalk.

“We’ve been over this, Toymaker, twice weekly all month,” Demo drawled, rolling his eye.

“I know that, but this is important,” he stressed.

“It is true,” Heavy rumbled, nodding solemnly. “This is big deal.”

“We can’t afford to let this one get mucked up considering our history,” the Engineer said firmly. “Every year it’s somethin’. This year we aren’t taking any chances, especially after that catastrophe last year.”

A groan from the team as they collectively remembered. A nod from the Engineer.

“We’re lucky Firebug was the one to ask why Scout was in the kitchen combing the cabinets and not one of us, otherwise he would’ve found out for sure. If he knew we all forgot his birthday, it would crush him,” he said emphatically. The team looked embarrassed as a whole, while Pyro looked particularly mortified. “And we can’t just buy the damn kid a few pizzas and hand him alcohol like that was the plan again this year.”

“Fortunately for all of you, I’ve been so generous as to look into a few things,” Spy piped in, pausing to take a drag from his cigarette.

“As if you won’t take any excuse to snoop,” Sniper mumbled, and was glared at.

“I resent that remark,” Spy scoffed. “Regardless. I happen to know that we’re in luck, and that Scout is planning to go into town for a short period of time this afternoon. For what purpose, I’m not sure. But it should mean we have plenty of time to set everything up.”

“I trust you all have gifts ready?” Medic asked, and received a general murmur of agreement, and made a check on the paper he had attached to a clipboard. “Ja, ja, that is good. Herr Demoman, Pyro, you are done with your baking?”

“Cake is baked, iced, and decorated,” Demo nodded, Pyro giving a thumbs up of agreement.

“Soldier, how are decorations?”

“Acquired and prepared for deployment!” Soldier barked, holding up a hand in salute.

“Doc, Heavy, you two were meant to run interference,” the Engineer said, and the two nodded. “With that not a worry, how about you help with the cooking and decorating?”

“Heavy can do this,” Heavy agreed, and Medic nodded as well, jotting down a few notes on his clipboard.

“And the snake was gonna help with anything that went wrong, and Sniper, you were gonna help with headed into town for anything we needed last minute,” the Engineer said, and received nods from the two of them.

“Do we need anything so far?” Sniper asked.

“No, we’re fine for now. And I’ve got my own setup handled,” the Engineer said, and nodded a few times to himself. “Alright. Sounds like we’re golden.”

“Ja, very good. Herr Spy, would you keep an eye on Scout and let the rest of us know when we can begin getting ready?” Medic asked.

“Obviously,” Spy said.

“Alright. Now go on, get, he’ll be wondering why we’re all running late, act natural,” the Engineer said, shooing them all from the conference room.

-

Later that day after battle was over, Spy dispersed news not long later that Scout had gotten changed into civvie clothes and gone into town on his bike, and they all leapt into action. Within half an hour, the decorations were ready, streamers and balloons in every direction, the table unfolded from their storage (only used when they needed to seat the entire team, which wasn’t often) and was set up with the cake, ready to have candles lit, the presents were stacked neatly, the Engineer had set up the new sound system he’d been working on (put into crunch time to have ready for the occasion), everything was set up and perfect. The only thing they still needed was Scout.

They settled in to wait, knowing town was a good twenty minutes away, thirty if he was headed to the better one. By the time he found everyone, Spy said that it had been about ten minutes, and they took around thirty to set everything up, meaning that Scout would probably be at least another ten minutes, maybe as much as half an hour. Spy would keep his eyes open and warn them when he came back, but in the meantime, they could relax while they waited.

In the meantime, Soldier and Demo attempted a few ‘finishing touches’ (putting party hats on his more docile raccoons and setting out some firecrackers and sparklers, respectively), and some of the other members of the team sat to play cards for a bit. Pyro, easily the most antsy, burned their way through the box of matches that sat waiting next to the cake one by one and started idly playing with their lighter when they ran out, occasionally lighting some of the extra candles.

Half an hour came and went. Forty minutes. Fifty. An hour.

They asked Spy if he had any word yet. The answer was no, and the visual of a few cigarette butts littered around Spy’s feet and a scowl.

The Engineer played a few song requests on the sound system. Soldier switched around party hats on the raccoons to better suit their personalities. Demo lit a sparkler and let it burn out. They switched card games.

At the two hour mark, the concern was starting to build in all of them. Maybe Scout went even further than any of them had expected. He hadn’t told any of them to wait up for him, to be fair. But he always told them outright if he wouldn’t be back for supper, and he hadn’t said anything, and should’ve been back by then. It was getting well into sundown.

“I am preparing to declare Scout as officially AWOL,” Soldier mumbled somewhere near the two/and-a-half hour mark, just a bit angrily, adjusting the party hat on Corporal Munch where it was crooked. Demo patted him on the shoulder to console him.

“He’ll get here when he gets here,” he assured, going back to fiddling with a party popper.

“Don’t waste those,” the Engineer warned. “And no queens, Go Fish.”

A groan from Medic. Demo shrugged. “We have some extra. Here, just to liven her up.”

He tugged the string on the popper, setting it off and sending a short shower of confetti onto Soldier, and that was where it all went wrong.

Corporal Munch, startled, made a little yelp-like noise and quickly clawed up Soldier’s chest, startled and attempting to escape. Soldier tried to grab on harder, but that just made the raccoon even more alarmed, and it rushed to clamor faster, digging claws in hard. Heads turned in time to see Soldier losing his grip and the animal rushing away towards the nearest enclosed, dim space, which just so happened to be the table Pyro was sitting at with the cake.

Pyro leapt up from their seat, battle instincts kicking in for a moment, and the movement startled the Corporal, who veered suddenly and crashed directly into one of the chairs, toppling it and the one directly next to it and making the entire table jerk.

Pyro, panicked, quickly grabbed the cake stand before it could fall over, dropping their lighter and the candle in their hand. The two things landed on the tablecloth, and by the time Pyro realized their mistake, they’d already lit the thin paper tablecloth on fire.

Shouting around the room as teammates attempted to leap into action, Pyro trying to save the cake from the fire first and foremost, Soldier attempting to catch the Corporal, who was only becoming more freaked out over time. Heavy moved to snatch up some of the other flammable items off of the table, but misjudged where Pyro was moving, and Pyro collided with him, the cake tumbling from the stand and directly across the both of them. The Corporal, entirely confused on the commotion, attempted to claw into the space under the cards table, making Medic yelp as his legs were torn into, Sniper rushing to try and catch the animal as well. Demo, having found the fire extinguisher, realized he was a bit late as he tried to put out the table, most of the tablecloth gone and the fire having spread across the streamers, and he tried to put out what he could, and it was only with the Engineer’s cry of dismay that he remembered, oh, right, those streamers were on top of that shiny new sound system, weren’t they. With a final puff, the ‘Happy Birthday’ sign went up in flames and was gone, and the team was left there in the wreckage.

Spy rounded the corner into the room, eyebrows furrowed from the commotion he’d heard. When he saw the smoking, foamy, cake-y remains, all he could do was sigh, kneading at the bridge of his nose. “Something new every year, is it?” he drawled.

-

It took them the better part of forty minutes to clean up the mess, and even then, the room had a weird smell to it. By the end of everything, all they had was one of the undecorated practice cakes Pyro had baked, some party hats, and some poppers. And by the time they were done cleaning up, Scout still hadn’t returned.

“At least he doesn’t have to see what a damn mess we made of things,” the Engineer sighed, and that seemed to be the consensus.

It was much later that Spy finally let them know that he’d seen the headlights of a motorcycle coming up the road, and the team just sighed, too tired to work up much energy. Some of them at least planned to call out a ‘happy birthday’ at him, but all they could do was stare when he walked into the room.

“Hey, guys,” Scout croaked, attempting a smile through a bruised lip.

“What the hell happened to you?” Sniper demanded, taking in the sight.

Scout was busted up in a number of different ways. What looked like a former bloody nose and a swollen lip seemed to be the worst of it, an amount of blood all down Scout’s front, staining what looked like one of his nicer civvie shirts beyond repair. There was also a dampness to his shirt and hair and a stain that implied he’d been splashed with something, practically drenched by the look of it, and he carried himself just slightly off-balance and held a bag in the arm not cradled to his abdomen.

Despite that, he managed a laugh, a lopsided grin. “Man, what the hell didn’t happen to me is more like it,” he said, shrugging. “Had a weird one.”

“Are you alright?” Medic demanded, already standing up, from his chair, and Scout shrugged again.

“Just bruises and all, it’s not an emergency or whatever, but I’d appreciate a heal or somethin’,” he admitted, and Medic left the room, hurrying towards the infirmary. “Forreal, though, what a fuckin’ night.”

“What’s on your shirt?” Spy asked, entirely deadpan, looking vaguely disgusted.

“Uh, I think it’s a margarita?” Scout said, glancing down at it and picking at his shirt vaguely. “I, uh, I should start from the top. Okay, so I went into town, right? I was just gonna buy some stuff real quick, and I got, uh… I got a little lost.”

“A little? Scooter, you’ve been gone all day!” the Engineer admonished.

“Yeah, yeah, I know, I know. There was construction on the usual road, I think they’re fixin’ a bridge or somethin’. Anyways, I got pretty far off track, but I got to town eventually. Just took a while. Anyways, I do my shopping, but because I was all rattled from havin’ to take a hundred detours I totally forget that there’s this one guy at the store that hates my guts, and I’ve gotta split pretty fast before he knocks some teeth out, y’know?”

“Do we want to know why he hates you?” Demo asked, a bit of humor in his tone.

“Nope,” Scout said simply, grinning right back. “So, yeah, but on my way into town I saw at the bar they have some kinda thing goin’ on, right, some kinda weird drink special. So I figure, hey, I’ll walk in, get the new drink, then I’ll leave, y’know? I don’t wanna have to drive home after dark and drunk. So I order, and as soon as I order some guy who’s been at the bar too long already starts tryin’ to pick a fight with me, right? And it’s a whole thing, and I finally get my drink but now there’s a whole thing, and I kinda make this offhanded comment at this gal nearby, y’know, tryin’ to make sure he knows we’re in a public place, all ‘hey, you’re really gonna embarrass yourself by pick in’ fights right in front of this real pretty girl?’, right?”

“Oh no,” Sniper sighed, already seeing where this was going.

“Well, yeah, bad luck, turns out that’s his girlfriend, and he shoves me into some guy, and I get a whole drink all over me, and mine is all over some third gut, and this whole brawl breaks out—anyways, busted lip and no drink and I’m probably not allowed in that bar anymore, but whatever, I finally start headed home.”

“Right,” Spy said, suspicious.

“And, uh, I never wanna drive at night because there’s all these animals out here, right? And the roads are shitty. And I’m headed back, and it’s dark as dicks, and I think I see this rock and I try and go around it, but then the rock moves back in my way because it’s a lizard or whatever and I hit the breaks and swerve straight into a pothole and just barely manage to keep on my bike, but I donk myself on the handlebars and totally throw my leg out of wack and all that. And, uh, and now I’m here.”

“Christ alive,” the Engineer marvelled.

“Bad day to have,” Heavy said, also stunned.

“Hey, it’ll be a funny story to tell later,” Scout shrugged, still grinning. “Got those new shoes at least, though.”

He pulled a shoebox out of the paper bag, and the box was dented into some kind of new parallelogram, barely resembling its past shape. Scout, meanwhile, was still smiling.

Silence in the room. “Well. While it is unlikely you need any more excitement today,” Spy trailed hesitantly. Pyro, understanding the cue, leapt up and hurried off into the kitchen, coming back with the cake.

“Woah, seriously?” Scout asked, eyes lighting up. “You made me a cake? Mumbles, you’re the best!”

“We, uh… we had more planned, but, some things went a little wrong,” the Engineer admitted, and trailed off as well as he looked at Scout.

“Not that we get to complain,” Demo laughed, seeming to come to the same realization as the Engineer.

“Are you joking? This rules!” Scout said, and lit up further when Medic returned with his Medigun, shaking off his injuries within a few moments. “Hey, thanks guys, seriously, no idea what I did to get such cool teammates. You guys are awesome, I mean it.”

“Dunno how we got a bloke like you, either,” Sniper shrugged, voice quiet compared to the rest of them. “Not many people can laugh after a day like yours and still have the energy to be pleased with anyone.”

“Aw, hey, I mean… y’know, it’s nothing,” Scout shrugged sheepishly, glancing away for a second. “Hey, you guys are playin’ cards? Deal me in! Oh yeah, hold on, we need plates and stuff for cake—“

He dropped his bag near the door and hurried into the kitchen. The room was quiet behind him. Demo held up a party popper, glancing around the room. The Engineer took it from him, shaking his head.

[echos-newlegs]

Hey there y’all, this is my first ever post and it was a request from a friend (idk their tumblr yet, I’ll probably just share it with them on Instagram lmao.) anyways it is a multiple part, Echo x Fem!Reader and you’ve landed on the first part! I will be linking the second part below after I make it. You can message me request too, and I’ll get to them before or after I finish this, I may do some prompt lists 😏 This is post and then Pre-Citadel. Reader has a daughter from a previous relationship and I promise it’ll get more interesting. I’ve never actually wrote and posted a story of any of the clones and I feel like I don’t do Echo any justice, but enough talk here ye be.

(P.S. c/n means child’s name. My friend was very specific with this request)

Part One - Part 2

Echo sat up at the bar. A drink in hand that he was slowly milking. His mind was everywhere but there. He was thinking about the war, sleep, his brothers he’s lost, who he could have and didn’t save. It was all a nightmare and a half. He’d honestly pay for just a simple hug from someone who wasn’t his brothers. Even from Ahsoka. Someone who he knew cared about him, but wasn’t part of him. If that made any sense?

So he stepped away from the bar with a sharp sigh. Patting Fives back. Gloved hand slapping against the others armor. “I’m gunna head for a walk,” “Want me to join ya?” Fives asked in a slur. He was obviously not milking his drinks like Echo was. Causing him to smile with a chuckle, “no, I’ll be fine, you.. Keep an eye on Rex.” He teased and Fives grinned. “You got it, vod.” He spoke and spun in his chair to face the other clones.

The moment Echo stepped out the door he felt a bit better. It wasn’t as stuffy and loud out as it was back in 79’s. Starting his little stroll with a small hum. He wasn’t even sure what he was humming. Just a ramble of tunes he had heard. “Mama, look!” He heard a voice shout. A little one. “C/N! Get back here!”a woman shouted and before Echo could turn around there was someone tapping on the back of his leg. “Mister, are you a clone?” Echo turned, raising an arm and looking down to the child. Brows furrowed, a small smile rising to his face. “Hello to you too, little one, yeah, yeah I am..” he murmured and the little girl squealed. “Mama it is a clone trooper! Are you one of the boys in blue? You have to be! I see you on the holo- Mama!” She rambled, and then shouted when you pulled her from Echo. “I am so so sorry about her.” You spoke. Bags of fruit and other groceries in one hand and stuffed under your arm. Your other hand now holding your daughters hand.

Echo was amazed by how much the kid knew. Smiling softly in amusement. Though he was even more amused when you came into view. You were breath taking, really. Running up behind her and pulling her back from him. Apologizing for the incident. Though he didn’t really mind. “Oh, no need to apologize ma’am, feels nice to be recognized by someone,” he joked, c/n whining a bit. “Mama, he’s part of the five oh first, I know it, I do. I was just asking him questions.” “Well baby, you can’t go running off like that,” “but mama-“ Echo kneeled and caught the girls attention, both of you actually. “You know, good soldiers follow orders, you need to listen to your mama, she just wants you safe,” he spoke. Smiling at the kid and she stared at him in awe. You watching Echo with an intrigued expression. “Yes, mr. clone sir.” She piped and Echo giggled at that. Nudging the girls shoulder. “At ease, solder, I’m an Arc Trooper, not a Captain or Commander, names Echo.” “Echo..” she whispered, “I’m c/n, and this is my mama, and she loves the 501st, and-“ you grew a bit flustered, laughing a bit nervously. “Okay hun, that’s enough. We should probably let him be now.”

Echo stood from where he was crouched, looking you in the face for a moment. “Can I at least help you with your bags,” “y/n,” he smiled as you said your name. “Y/n, it’s the least I could do.” He spoke and you smiled a bit sheepishly. Glancing down to the bags and then back to him. “Sure,” you gave in. You couldn’t say no. His eyes pleaded with you and you lost the battle. Though it wasn’t hard to convince you when help was offered. You handed him some of the bags and he took them. You stuck with less now since he took most of the heavy things. Giving you a look when you went to tell him it was fine. That you could carry them. “Least I can do for a supporter,” he added with a smile that had you smiling black and even blushing a little.

The three of you got to the apartment you lived at. You pulling out your key as your daughter rambled, somethings incoherent. Pushing the door open, your daughter running in, and you following. Turning to motion for echo to follow with a small grin. “C’mon, Arc Trooper,” you added with a grin, snickering slightly as he stumbled a bit through the door.

Echo sat the things down, looking around the house slightly before they landed back onto you. “Would you like to stay for supper?” You asked, putting away some of the groceries. “Nah, I don’t want to intrude.” You smiled, turning as you shut the fridge. “Please? It’s the least I could do, for a helper. Plus you’d make my daughters day, you guys are her hero’s.” You added and he smiled, “Alright, alright, you got me.” He added. Though he was going to say yes even if you would have just said please. He was hungry, and something other than rations sounded like an absolute blessing. Not only that, but he wanted to get to know you more. You intrigued him, you were beautiful and kind. Yet he barely knew you and already wanted to make this a normal thing.

While you fixed up supper Echo ended up wandering off with your daughter. The five year old grabbing his hand and dragging him back into her room to show him her toys. It made you a little nervous, even if he was a clone. You knew he wouldn’t hurt her, but you rarely left anyone alone with her. She was really all you had left. Her father leaving the both of you behind shortly after she was born. So you ventured back while you let some of the meat cook. Seasonings already filling the air and your senses. Peaking into the bedroom to see Echo sitting on the floor with her.. Playing. The sight shocked you more than it did him really. Standing, watching for a moment with a small smile on your face.

Echo was using the toy ship she had, flying it around and imitating noises as your daughter did the same. Brows knitted together just the slightest bit in concentration. “Ahhhh, your ships been hit!” She exclaimed and Echo gasped. “Oh no, Crash landing, or as General Skywalker would say.” “Surprise landing!” The two exclaimed at the same time. Causing the, to break into a fit of giggles. You bringing a hand up to your mouth as you leaned against the door way. Giggling a bit yourself.

Your little laugh made Echos head turn to face the door. “Ma- er- y/n,” “is the food ready mama?” Your daughter interrupted him, and you could swear he was blushing. “It nearly is, go get washed up honey,” you added and your daughter shot up. Tapping Echos shoulder, “C’mon, we have to wash our hands before we eat, Echo.” She stated with a grin and you chuckled as the two passed you to the bathroom. Catching Echos glance and shrug. Which cause you to giggle again. Catching him smile even more before he turned away,

The two came back, your daughter on his shoulders and you were dishing out food for the three of you. “Mama look! I’m big!” She was in a fit of laughter, and he was too. You hadn’t seen her so happy in what felt like forever. “You are, aren’t you?” You cooed a bit and watched as he pulled her off and placed her into a chair. Sitting in his own. “No, mama sits there,” she spoke and you furrowed your brows. “Oh sorry,” “I’m joking,” your daughter blurted with a snicker and you sighed. “She’s full of those.” You rolled your eyes as you sat and Echo seated himself again. Smiling at you as he sat across from you. “Does she get the sense of humor from you?” He asked with a brow raised. You meeting his gaze with a bit of a smirk. “Maybe she does,” causing you both to laugh a bit.

The three of you ate, but it wasn’t without conversation. You had your fair share of questions. Asking about the hand print on his armor. Why he was on Corusant and wandering. Instead of at 79’s like you noticed most other clones were. Which he has an answer for each question. Though he did seem a bit nervous almost. Once finished you instructed your daughter to get ready for bed. Though she was hesitant, she finally did shuffle off to the bathroom to brush her teeth and then her room to get dressed. Leaving you and Echo in the kitchen by yourselves.

You collected all the dishes and placed them in the sink, deciding to do them after he left. “Let me help you,” “You’ve done enough helping today, soldier.” You told him with a grin. “Sit back down, it’s fine.” You added, and he smiled. Doing as told, “yes sir,” he added and you let out a titter. He was so formal and cute.

You sat back down across from him, and he was staring at his hands. “Thank you,” you spoke. He looked up with his brows raised. “For helping, and making my daughters world.” You spoke and he shrugged. “It’s my pleasure, y/n.” You pressed your lips together. Watching him for a moment or two. “I’d love to have you back,” you words shocked him. Watching as your cheeks tinted pink and your eyes darted down to your hands folded on the table. “I mean, if you’re ever on Corusant again, I really enjoyed your company. Don’t find a lot of nice people anymore.” People. The word was vague, meaningless to most, but the fact you didn’t call him a clone made his day. You included him as someone, not what he was. “Plus it’d make c/n’s day.” He smiled and nodded. “I’d love to, I don’t find a lot of people willing to feed, let alone hang out with clones like me.” You scoffed a bit and chuckled. “You’re kidding right?” His smile faded a bit. “No?” “Echo, you’re absolutely wonderful, and I don’t see why People wouldn’t want to hang around you. What? Just because you share the same face with a million other people? That’s ridiculous and people are obviously missing out.”

Your words weren’t much. It wouldn’t mean much to a lot, but to him it was like poetry. Without the rhyming. “Thank you,” he nearly whispered. Staring at you in awe, and you smiled back. Reaching a hand out to place on top of his. It made him jump a bit, causing you to retract your hand. “No no-“ he blurted, clearing his throat. Eyes darting around. “I mean, it’s fine, you’re fine, I just don’t get touched often.” He spoke, voice light and faint. Looking up to you with tinted cheeks. You wanted to pull him over to the couch and just hug on him. He was so sweet, so unloved by those who weren’t his brothers and you could tell. Frowning a bit and you placed your hand back onto him. Watching as his expression changed a bit. Softened even more, if that were even possible. He seemed relaxed. You barely knew him and you wanted him to be as comfortable as possible.

A few moments passed. The two of you sharing glances and unspoken words. Which was soon interrupted by Echos com link. “Echo, we’re heading back, I hope you’re not getting laid right now.” Fives spoke over, drunken giggles following after. Echos tanned face flushed red. Eyes widening and his eyes darting down. “Kriff, I better get going, thank you so much for the food.” He spoke in a near ramble and you couldn’t help but smile. A small giggle following after. “Of course, you should come see me next time you’re in Corusant.” You added, walking him to the door. Both of you smiling like idiots. “Sure thing, how could I not?” He added and you directed your gaze down at the floor. Smiling a bit more. “I’ll be expecting to see you again, then.” And those words were enough to keep Echo fighting hard during the war. The two of you exchanging good byes. Echo making his way back to 79’s. Hoping Fives didn’t just up and leave him.

———————

[gamer-logic]

The States and 2P America

So the 2ps get to the 1p world after making a truce with their counterparts and escaping their collapsing world where they're the only survivors. They then proceed to live with their 1ps in a crazy roommate sort-of situation. The only problem is that when Allen gets to Alfred's house it's this huge mansion and one of the states opens the door making him very confused as he never had states of his own and his idiotic 1p is the father of 50 kids!

"What the *beep* Porkchop?! Since do you have fifty little brats runnin’ around?!"

Alfred gives him a full rundown on finding/raising the states and then proceeds to draft him into babysitting! At first, Allen tried to ignore them but then faces the painful realization that leaving 50 states alone is never a good idea. After finally rounding up everyone he could find and freeing the thirteen (most responsible being Delaware and Virginia) from being trapped in the barn by their younger siblings, he does a headcount.

Allen: Okay one, two, three.....45. We're missing five! Where's Nevada, Hawaii, Alaska, Texas, and New Mexico?

Random state raises their hand: I think Nevada's in Vegas gambling again. He goes there a lot to triple his allowance!

Another state: I remember Texas said something about rodeos and bull riding all the way to Dallas. Also, Alaska and Hawaii left a note saying something about hanging out with New Mexico and Tony in Roswell!

Allen: But we're in D.C.! How did they get all the way over there in 3 hours?! *States shrug while Allen looks close to screaming into the void* Okay, everyone into the bus! We're going to get your siblings!

Cue cross country road-trip like the hangover where, after hours of getting lost in Disney Land, Delaware’s nagging about being the oldest and most mature much to Massachusetts chagrin because he’s clearly got better colleges, getting into a dance contest in Maine, keeping Arizona from getting stuck in the Grand Canyon for the hundredth time, Wisconsin participating in a cheese eating contest, Maine cooking seafood, Georgia making 30 peach cobblers, Colorado making a giant igloo, Washington and Oregon's hippie phases making a return, playing hockey in Minnesota, fishing Michigan out of the great lakes, New Jersey getting stalked by the Jersey Devil who’s like that stray cat that keeps following you around, keeping New York from starting a fight at Yankee’s game, gator wrestling in the Florida everglades, getting dressed for Mardi Gras in Lousianna, getting lost in Iowa’s biggest corn maze, the Dakota twins almost killing the Carolinas for trying to graffiti Mt. Rushmore (there’s a bit of a twin rivalry), avoiding the secret service less they get caught and ratted out to Alfred, seeing Old Faithful at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and trying to keep Alabama from sticking his head in it on a dare, crossing the Mississippi, running from rodeo clowns that Tennessee angered after he picked a fight with them for insulting his country music, finally picking up Texas with his new Rodeo bull-riding championship belt and tying him up with his own lasso, various misadventures, including recuing Idaho from an accidental marriage, in Vegas that will stay in Vegas, finding/grounding Nevada from gambling after he almost lost 50 grand and Wyoming to a circus, they finally arrive in Roswell.

Allen, too tired to care at this point: Alright! Who's this Tony New Mexico, Hawaii, and Alaska said they we're with?

Maryland: He's Dad's cool alien friend from 1947. New Mexico likes hanging out with him in his spaceship playing pranks on Britain and the other nations!

Allen hardly believes her but is too tired to care at this point: A-Alien? Sure, why not?! Let’s just go get them! Maybe we’ll run into Nessie too!

Iowa whispering to Ohio: But isn’t Nessie in Scotland?

Ohio: *shrugs*

After falling into a series of booby traps a la Alaska, they finally track down Tony’s ship in Alaska and find the three playing video games with Tony. It finally registers in Allen’s mind that there’s a real freakin’ alien in front of him playing Mario Kart.

Allen: T-t-that’s an….

State: Yep!

Allen: And he’s playing video games….

States: Yep!

Allen, not able to handle this anymore: *faints*

After a not so long drive back to D.C. courtesy of New Jersey’s driving, Getting KFC in Kentucky for supper with vegan salad for Allen and irritating said state in the process, and almost forgetting Rhode Island, they finally make it bake to D.C. and settle Allen down on the couch, gathering around him to watch a Marvel marathon acting like the innocent little angels they’re not. They also duct tape California’s mouth shut and tie her up with Texas’ lasso because she wouldn’t stop complaining about watching her newest one instead. Alfred finally arrives home from a meeting in Berlin around the time they finish Doctor Strange and sees Allen crashed on the couch with the states around him.

Alfred: So did you have a good time with Uncle Allen?

States: We sure did!

Wisconsin bragging about his trophy made entirely of cheese: I’m the king of cheese once again!

Alfred: Great! Now it’s off to bed everyone!

States: Aww! But we wanted to stay up and play with Uncle Allen!

Alfred: No buts, you can play again tomorrow! Now off to bed!

The states start trudging up to their rooms with California finally being freed. Georgia putting a blanket over Allen, Hawaii putting a hibiscus print pillow under his head, and Maryland putting a note on the end table as they go out. Allen finally wakes up and Alfred, watching the rest of the marathon notices.

Alfred: You were awesome with them dude! I’m going to let you babysit from now on!

Allen: *Screams and faints again*

Alfred: Heh! He’s so excited! *Munches on popcorn*

The next morning Allen wakes up and reads the note: “Thanks for taking care of all of us today! We had a lot of fun, Uncle Allen! From the states. P.S. You were super cool playing baseball at Yankee stadium! Teach us sometime? Also, there's a salad for you in the fridge! :)"

He crumbles the note and puts it in his jacket trying not to break his tough-guy persona. But later when no one looking, he takes it out with a small smile and thinks these brats aren’t so bad after all.

Eventually, they grew on him and Allen comes to consider the all the states like his own secretly loving it when they call him Uncle Allen. They may be little gremlins but his gremlins and if you so much as touch one hair on their head you’ll get a face full of his nailed bat!

Just another day in the Jones’ household!

Meanwhile In Canada:

James is babysitting the provinces for Mathew and is currently in drill sergeant mode pacing in front of the nervous, with the exception of Quebec who's extremely excited, lined-up provinces. Kumajiro (cub) and Kuma (adult) are just chilling and watching them with whistles around their necks and cute little maple leaf hats courtesy of British Columbia.

James: All right, listen up! I’m going to teach you all how to rough it and survive out in the wilderness! Now, who knows how to start a fire?

All the provinces turn to stare at Manitoba.

Manitoba: Oh, come on! I set fire to Papa’s flannel shirt collection one time!

James: Okaaaaay ignoring that, everybody get into groups of two and I’ll assign jobs!

Nova Scotia raises her hand: But there’s thirteen of us!

James: Fine then, eenie meenie miny mo… *Points to Prince Edward Island* you! Prissy pants boy you're with me! We’re gathering firewood!

P.E.I. looking up from his mirror: Excuse me!? I’m not gonna get these designer clothes dirty picking up filthy wood!

James *facepalms*: Give me that! *Proceeds to chuck the mirror into the lake much to P.E.I’s horror and Ontario’s glee!*

(They don't get along because of P.E.I.’s arrogant personality and constant declaring himself in charge despite Ontario being the oldest and having the capital).

James: We’re out here to survive off the land which means no cell phones, no internet, and definitely NO BEAUTY PRODUCTS. NOW IS THAT CLEAR?!

Provinces: Sir, yes sir!

James being the big softie that he is but won't admit: Good! Now we meet back here by sunset and we’ll roast marshmallows!

Everyone hurries and gets on with their jobs with Alberta somehow ending up stuck in a tree and harassed by woodpeckers and Yukon and Saskatchewan being the most successful by communicating with/befriending a family of beavers that help them build a shelter. By the end of the day, James also feels a sense of fatherly protectiveness and pride over the provinces like Allen. he also secretly loves it when they call him Uncle James. Nunavut also manages to find bigfoot who helps gather food much to James’ shock!

[mldrgrl]

Broken Things 20/24

by: mldrgrl Rating: varies by chapter, rated R overall  See Chapter 1 for summary and notes

The incident breeds awkwardness between them for the rest of the morning.  Katherine moves out of his arms eventually and he helps her to gather her clothes.  She keeps her eyes down as she dresses, leaving things unbuttoned and untied, and doesn’t look at him.

“I just need a few minutes to put some fresh clothes on,” she says.  “And then I’ll see to breakfast.”

“Take your time.  I’ll need to check on the boys and see if the storm did any damage.”

She nods once and then she slips out the door.  He wonders if he should go after her or say something, but he doesn’t know what to say that he hasn’t already.  He sighs and then dresses for the day.

Melvin and Trevor already have the barn open when he makes it outside.  Richard is repairing a fencepost in the hog pen.  The ground is muddy, but the sky is blue and the sun is bright.  

“How are things?” Mulder asks.

“Everyone pulled through,” Melvin answers.  “Trevor said that them sheeps were noisy little buggers.  Queenie was fit to be tied over their restlessness, but they settled once the rain let up.”

“How did George do?”

“Just fine.  We actually moved the goats into the stable before it got bad and I put ‘em in with George.  They kept good company for each other.”

“Roof held up?”

“Just fine.”

“Good, good.”

“Everything alright with you?”

“Just fine.”  Mulder rubs the back of his head and looks away from Melvin.

“Mmhm.”

With Jesse and Jimmy away, there is just too much to be done for Mulder to dwell on Katherine’s reluctance to let him in.  Whatever happened this morning, it doesn’t change the closeness they shared the night before, that he now knows is possible to have.  He’s not angry, he’s just sad for her and for them.  Whatever Jack Willis did to her, if the man wasn’t already dead, Mulder would kill him.

It takes some time to relocate the livestock back to their pens.  The hogs romp and roll in the mud, ecstatic, ignoring their slop initially in favor of getting dirty.  Katherine rings the breakfast bell as they’re mucking the stables and Mulder sends them in ahead of him.  He doesn’t have much of an appetite anyway.

Katherine jumps up from the table when he comes in and rushes to the stove.  He puts his arm around her and takes the spatula from her hand.  “Go on and sit down,” he says.  “I know how to fix a plate up.”

“The eggs might be cold.  I covered the bacon to keep it warm.”

“That’s my fault.  I’m late.”  He kisses her cheek and sends her away.

Melvin scrutinizes them the whole meal.  He can feel the older man’s eyes on him at times and he catches him looking at Katherine as well.  

“It’s already starting to dry up out there,” Mulder says.  “I think we should send the horses out to pasture today, what do you think?  Let them run off any residual nerves and they might enjoy a nice roll in the mud, though probably not as much as the hogs.”

“You want to run the curry comb through the lot of ‘em at the end of the day, go on ahead,” Melvin says.

Mulder chuckles.  “It’s Saturday.  You boys planning on heading down to the bath house tonight?  Faithful Jenny and Blondie would probably like a nice ride.  That black stallion from the postal team, he handles well with a saddle.”

“Why do you call the horse Faithful Jenny?” Katherine asks.

Richard laughs.  Mulder chuckles around a mouthful of eggs.  Trevor turns a shade of red that would make a ripe tomato jealous.  Melvin coughs into his fist.

“Have you ever heard of Old Faithful in Yellowstone?” Mulder asks.

Katherine shakes her head no.  Mulder takes another stab at his eggs and then wipes his eyes and sits back.

“Old Faithful is a geyser,” he says.  “Some members of an expedition were camped nearby and noticed that she erupted with predictability every ten minutes or so.”

Richard pounds a fist on the table and laughs so hard he doubles over off the bench.  Mulder shakes his head, but has to laugh with him.

“We got Jenny from a rancher nearby that couldn’t take it no more,” Melvin continues where Mulder left off.  “He come ‘round with her and asked if we could just buy her off him for a fair price because he was at his wits end.”

“But, she’s a lovely horse,” Katherine says.

“Oh, yes,” Mulder says.  “She’s a good old gal, she was just also foraging in the wrong places and got herself a bad case of the colic.”

“You’re not gettin’ to the best part,” Richard says.

“Why don’t you go ahead,” Mulder tells him.  “You sure do enjoy the tale.”

“The best part is that when Mr. Miles dropped her off he said, ‘I tell you what, you can set your watch by that horse’s farts, I reckon.  Probably gives Old Faithful a run for her money.’”

“Oh, my.”  Katherine’s cheeks redden for a moment and then the corners of her mouth pick up and her lips quiver like she’s trying to suppress her amusement, but she can’t hold it for long.  Her giggles almost sound like hiccups and she covers her mouth with one hand.  Her shoulders are shaking and she lets go with a full belly laugh that has the whole table roaring in no time.

“She’s on a special diet now so her, uh, troubles have passed,” Mulder says, when the laughter has died down.  “But, we got used to calling her Faithful Jenny and so the name just carries on.”

“Poor Jenny,” Katherine says.

“You’re lucky you never stood downwind of her some years ago,” Richard says.

The table breaks up into laughter once more.

↭

She’s felt anxious and embarrassed for most of the day.  The hilarity at the breakfast table eased some of her tension, but by noon dinner she had a knot in her stomach.  Her misery is self-imposed.  She knows this.  Mulder has been nothing but gentle and tender with her all day and she returns his kindness with silence.

While the men tend to the horses and get ready for their Saturday trek into town, she launders the sheets and the week’s dirty clothes.  There’s a stain on one of Mulder’s undershirts and she realizes it’s the one he used to clean her hands last night.  The thought of what they did makes her breathless.  She has to grip the side of the washtub to keep upright she feels so faint.

She wants so badly to erase the past and move forward.  She wants so badly for this new marriage she has to feel real.  Last night was as real as it could be, but she had to ruin things this morning.  Perhaps she’s mistaking Mulder’s kindness for pity, and she wouldn’t blame him for it.  She’s pathetic and weak and doesn’t deserve all the nice things he’s done for her.

She refuses to dwell on this now.  She has chores to do and meals to prepare.  It’s why she’s here.  Not to fall in love with her own husband.  She gasps and for the second time, has to grip the side of the washtub.  Is she in love?  No, she can’t be.  She hardly knows him.  She only knows that he’s kind, he’s generous, he laughs easy, he has a slight temper, but isn’t violent.  He’s patient, he’s good to his horses and the men that work for him.  He’s good to her.  

She hears the back door close and she startles at the sound and automatically jumps to start scrubbing the undershirt in her hand.  Mulder knocks softly on the side of the washroom door and smiles at her.

“The boys are heading into town,” he says.  “I told them to go ahead and set out early and I thought I’d go ahead and make supper for us tonight.”

“You can cook?”

“I’m hurt that there’s doubt in your tone.”

“I’m not doubting, I’m just…”

“Naturally skeptical, since I have not yet proven my worth to you.”

“You’ve more than proven your worth,” she says, softly, taking the teasing tone out of the conversation.

Mulder smiles at her and reaches out to cup her cheek.  She wants to believe that she is worth the trouble if he can still touch her so fondly and make her feel so cared for.

“Need help with the laundry?” he asks.

“I’m nearly done, just need to get these shirts scrubbed and hang up this last basket to dry.”

“I can do that.”  He squeezes past her to take the basket of damp clothing and then hoists it up over her head to squeeze back out.  “That pulley you had Richard install is just about the most genius thing I’ve ever seen.”

Mulder takes the laundry away and she finishes with the shirts.  She goes out to the back to pin them up and he lets her take over the line.  She gets fresh linens on the beds, does some dusting, and cleans up the washroom.  Before she’s through, she can smell the hearty aroma of meat cooking and hear the sizzle of the skillet.

“Pork chops?” she asks.

“I confess it’s about the only thing I can cook, but I do it well.”

“Should I chop anything?”

“No, Ma’am.  I’ve had potatoes baking for some time and I brought up a jar of applesauce.”

“There are a few corn fritters leftover from dinner that I wrapped.  We could heat those as well.”

“I think that sounds perfect.”

Katherine sets the table for two.  The pork chops are delicious.  He shows her how to garnish a baked potato with chopped bacon and bits of chives and cheese, which she’d never seen done before.  She tries to imagine an easy life with him and what it would have been like if only they’d met four years ago.

“Have you given any thought to what you’d like in the expansion?” he asks.

Katherine shakes her head.  “There isn’t anything in particular that I can think of.  I would like...well, I would like the porch to stay the way that it is.  Facing west.  I like watching the sunset.”

“I wouldn’t dream of changing that.  I was thinking I might convert the bunkhouse into a guest house.  And I’d like to have an office built on the other side of the kitchen.  There must be something you’d like though.  A parlor?  Sewing room?  Laboratory?”

She shakes her head at him and then laughs.  “A laboratory?”

“Some place for the science things you enjoy.”

“No, thank you.”  Her smile fades a bit as memories fall on her.  “When I was a little girl, all I used to want was my own bookcase, filled with books, but my father said that reading novels was unladylike and would rot my brain and fill it with uppity ideas.  I had a schoolteacher that did not agree, fortunately, and I did most of my reading in secret, with her help.”

“Is that the same teacher that got you interested in sciences?”

“Yes.”

“Do you have a favorite novel?”

“Moby Dick always resonated with me.”

“Dense material for a young person, lady or gent.  How did it resonate?”

“The ship’s captain, Ahab, reminded me very much of my father.”  She closes her eyes for a few moments and then shakes the memories of her childhood from her head.  Her family is not a subject she wishes to think about right now.  “Do you think we could put in a magnolia tree somewhere?”

“I’ve never seen a magnolia out in these parts, but we can find out if the soil is right for it.”

“That’s all I want.”

“I’ll do my best to give it to you.”

She stands then to start clearing the dishes and to clean the kitchen.  Mulder lays a hand on her arm, very gently.

“You could have your own library,” he says.  “A room full of all your favorite books and all the ones you never got to read, but always wanted to.”

“The porch and the tree will be more than enough.”

He lets her go with a bit of reluctance and she goes on with her cleaning.  He heads out to do the evening chores in the barn and stables.  She doesn’t see him again for the rest of the evening.  She is already lying in bed when she hears him come in by the soft tread of his boots on the wood floor that she’s grown accustomed to.  She hears him open his door and there’s a long pause before he closes it.

She twists the wedding ring on her finger around and around.  When she catches herself, she shakes her hands and then starts to do her rosary, but stops that as well.  For nearly her entire life she’s been told that trusting in God and saying her prayers will bring her comfort and peace, but she’s never known it to be comforting at all.  Certainly not in the four years when she could have used it the most.  And she never knew peace until last night when she was with Mulder, so close with him, lying in his arms.

Maybe God led her here, or maybe He didn’t.  Maybe it was fate, like Mulder said.  The point is, if she wants peace, if she wants comfort, she knows where to find it.  All she has to do is get up and walk across the hallway.  Can she really ask him to do this for her though, when he’s already given her so much?  And what has she given him in return?

Katherine sighs and twists her ring again.  Finally, she kicks the sheets away and gets up from the bed.  She unties her hair and shakes it loose before she goes to her door.  It takes her some time to open it and then she stands in the dark for a few moments more before she tiptoes to his door.  The floor creaks softly under her.  She can see the lamplight shining dimly from under the bottom of his door.  It takes her another few moments and a few deep breaths, but she knocks.

Mulder opens the door.  He’s bare-chested and bare-footed.  His suspenders are slung down by his thighs and the top button of his trousers is undone.  He cocks his head in question and she drops her eyes for a few moments, but then looks back up at him.

“Could you hold me?” she asks.

He opens his mouth and then purses his lips and nods.  “Yeah, I can do that.”

[marvelsimp]

The New Kid: Friend or Foe

The New Kid Masterlist

Ch. 5

Genre: Fluff? Pairing: Peter & Lesbian!reader, Avengers & Reader, (eventual Wanda x Reader it’s a slow burn) Warnings: violence(training), blood, stabbed, strong language Description: Y/n is getting used to living in the tower and makes an unlikely friend Reader’s Powers: Healer, telepath, and empath. Word Count: 2278

“You can’t pull your punches, Y/n/n.  In a real fight, you’re gonna have to fight for your life.”

“You know my whole power set is pacifist.”

“That’s why I have to train you,” said the slightly annoyed red-haired woman. “Now get your head in the game and let’s go again.”

You scoffed; you were frustrated that you had to do this.  That you had to learn how to hurt people.  You took a moment to stretch and you both went back into your fighting stances to start again.

You went to punch her face, but she dodged, she then raised her leg and tried to kick but you caught her foot.  She quickly got her foot free before you could do anything with it.  This went on for a while, you both got some good punches and kicks.  You did land on your ass a few times, but you got up each time and went back to it.

“Time out”

Thank god.

Steve walked in. Oh god no. You knew what was coming, you were gonna have to fight Steve.  You very dramatically fell on the floor and spread out. “Come on, Nat. This is creeping up on child abuse,” you laugh.

You earned a chuckle out of both of them.  Steve stood above you and offered you his hand to which you accepted. Nat went onto showing you some simple moves to help you fight someone bigger than you after about an hour you finally got to go and get a shower and really start your day.

The last week and a half passed by quickly.  Peter stayed at the tower for the first few nights but went back home once school started.  But he would come after patrol and he still video called during homework, like usual.  

Most of your time was spent in one of the labs.  You have been helping Tony with one of his suits as a way for him to familiarize you with the machines and programs.  Bruce did less hands-on work he worked on calculations for his own projects and did some work for SHEILD.  You went down to the Med Lab a few times to give Dr. Cho some blood samples or some information about your powers.  She took a small sample of skin, fat, and muscle from your thigh, but it healed within a minute like nothing ever happened.  

You also spent some time in the gym, which you hated but the others made it a little more fun.  You were really only doing it to get ready for training with Nat.  When you first went in you had no clue what you were doing.  Sam, Bucky, and Steve were doing some training exercise when you entered but Sam quickly saw your very clueless face and walked over to help.

“Hey, kid.”

“Hi.”

“I’m assuming you have no clue what you’re doing?  You look as clueless as I would if I went up to the Tech Lab.”

“That obvious?”

He let out a chuckle.  Sam gave you some stretches to warm up and then showed you how to use some of the machines.  He gave you advice on how long to use each machine and told you that if you needed anything just yell.  The rest of your time in the gym you watched the three men do whatever they were doing.  Sam and Bucky’s bickering was very entertaining and so was Steve yelling at them to focus. You were there for around an hour every day until Nat started to train you.  You very quickly learned that you grew muscle faster than the average person and you weren’t sore for very long.  

When you weren’t in the lab or the gym you were probably in your room playing a game or you were talking to Wanda while she was making a meal. “So, are you the assigned cook?” you joked.  You’d only ever seen Wanda prepare meals since you got here.

Wanda just shook her head, “Not really.  I just enjoy it, so I usually am the one to cook.  But Bruce sometimes cooks and so do Steve and Bucky. When I first joined I helped Steve add a bit of flavor to his meals.  Thank god I didn’t live in the 40s.” She laughed a little, you love her laugh and smile, they seem to make the room a little brighter.

You weren’t a cook yourself so you didn’t help too much, but you would talk to her and get her something if she needed it but usually, she’d just use her powers.  

That’s really the only time that you see Wanda, most of her day is spent training.  She’s Strange’s apprentice.  You still haven’t met him, for someone who can make portals you’d think he’d pop in at some point.  You asked Wanda about seeing him, but she told you that you need to be invited or it needs to be something important.  She warned against pissing him off because it takes a while to get back on his good side.  But she told you she’d mention it to him.

You got into a rhythm of training, breakfast, tech lab, lunch, med lab, tech lab, supper, and Video games, the library, or more time in the tech lab.  It was rarely thrown off.  Every few days someone would go out for a mission or return from one.  Nat only missed two training sessions, so Bucky stood in.  You enjoyed training with Nat, but Bucky made sure to put some fun into it.   At first, he seemed so cold but after some warming up, he really was just a big Teddy Bear.  He can still be an ass though.

Your days stayed on this loop for another week until Thor returned with Loki.  No one fully trusted Loki so Stark ended up putting a tracker on him that Wanda enchanted so that Loki couldn’t remove or deactivate it… he was not impressed.  Well, he was, just not pleased.

“You must be Lady Y/n,” Loki smirked.

Thor whacked the back of Loki’s head. “Be good,” he whispered.

Loki just let out a mischievous laugh, “Don’t worry brother.”  Loki turned back to you, “So you’re the one who discovered me? I wouldn’t expect a mere mortal would be able to find me out... not even THE Scarlet Witch did.”

“You’re impressed?” you scoffed. “Or maybe a little jealous.” You knew that he’s the god of mischief and you aren’t gonna deal with any of his shit, you’ve got enough going on.

“No,” he defended, “Just interested.”

“I’m a telepath and empath,” you explained, “and a healer.”

“Oh! So, you cheated!”

“What do you mean cheat? Your thoughts were so loud you were giving me a headache!”

“I will get my revenge.”

He’s going to so annoying, isn’t he?

Loki was surprisingly quiet over the next week until you went to the tower’s library.  

The library itself is a whole floor, it has a copy of every book you could think of.  It even has a librarian who is almost constantly putting up new releases.  It’s a bookworm’s dream.  

You wanted to find a physics book or two and you weren’t against finding a new queer fantasy book.  You returned your books and asked Mx. Anderson where you could find what you were looking for and they quickly gave you directions and suggestions.

You found and picked out a few physics books and then made your way to the young adult section. The queer books have a rainbow sticker on the spine.  You picked out a few then headed to leave, you walked into the “classics” section and there was Loki on a couch reading with a pile of books next to him.

“Hey,” you smiled.

“Hello,” said the Asgardian who didn’t even look up from his book.

You bent down a little to sew the cover of the surprisingly thin book. “Oh, you’re reading Shakespeare!” He was reading Hamlet.  “My favorite is Romeo and Juliet. Have you read it yet?” He finally looked up from his book.  “No,” he seemed a little confused, “But I did read a few others of his work and I think that is in my stack.” He turned to find it. “It has such odd language compared to the rest of you.”

“They were written like four hundred years ago,” you explained, sitting next to him.

“Ah, language does change quite quickly.”

You nodded in agreement.

“What are you reading?” he said pointing at your stack of books.

“Oh, uh um. These big books are physics books, and these smaller ones are fantasy romance.”

“Hmm, you don’t seem to be one who reads romance.”

“Well, I’m really more into it for the fantasy elements but I do enjoy a good romance.”

He gave you a smirk,” Besides Romeo and Juliet and any of Shakespeare’s works. Do you have any recommendations for me?”

You went on to recommend some classics and some more recent books.  He listened to every word and asked a few questions.  You didn’t stay long; you were tired and just wanted to dive into one of your books.  You would usually be in the lab at this time, but it was nice to have a few hours to yourself before dinner.  

“Knock, knock,” said a voice at your door.

“Hm?” you looked up. “Peter!” you set down your book and ran to him for a hug.  It had been a while since Peter had come to the tower.  He hadn’t even been introduced to Loki, formally that is.  ‘How’s my favorite bug!”

Peter let out a laugh, “Good! You’re acting like we don’t talk every day.”

“Video calls and in-person are completely different things! Anyways what are you doing here?”

“It’s Thursday aka movie night.”

“Oh, yeah!”

You and Peter walked out of your room and went to the common space to eat dinner.

“Lady Y/n,” said a booming voice.

“Yes, Thor!”

“Would you and the Man of Spiders like to sit next to me and my brother?”

“Yes, we’d love that,” you laughed.

“So, you’re telling me that you’ve never had ice cream!” you practically yelled at Loki.

Everyone was surprised with how comfortable you and the trickster were with each other, especially Peter.  

“What’s with you and him?” Peter whispered.

“We bonded over books,” you whispered back. “Your girlfriend would like him.”

Peter smiled, he’s pleased that you’re getting along with everyone and most of all that you’re happy.  

The rest of the night was nice, it was just like the last two movie nights.  Dinner, talking, movie, and then Peter had to leave to finish his homework or go on patrol.  

The next week was just like you had gotten there but Loki had decided that it was a perfect time to really embrace his title.  He started to pull little pranks, nothing too bad or really anything that went beyond a little annoyance.  Or at least he didn’t until today.  

It was Saturday so you slept in because you thankfully did not have to go to training.  You were about to leave when you noticed a box on your desk.  It was about the size of a backpack.  So, you decided to open it and when you looked inside there was a black cat with emerald eyes.  Who got you a cat? You like cats and like…thanks?  But still, who would get you a cat out of nowhere? You picked up the cat and as soon as you did it started to transform, and you felt a sharp pain in your side.  The cat continued to transform into of course… Loki.  The raven hair man quickly sprinted out of your room to the common area.

You looked down and there was a fucking kitchen knife in your side.

“You bitch! I like this shirt!” you yelled while running out of your room.

When you entered the common room, Loki was nowhere to be seen.  But Nat, Bucky, and Steve were there.  “Where did he go?”

“Who?” Nat turned around and saw the knife in your side.  Her eyes widened, then she looked fucking pissed.  “What the fuck! Are you okay?”  The men's emotions followed the same track.

“Oh yeah,” you said nonchalantly.  You pulled the bloody knife out of your side.  Some blood soaked into your shirt’s fabric, but you weren’t worried.  But you do like this shirt… that bitch is gonna pay.

“Do you want me to kill him?” said the brunette man bluntly.

“Don’t worry, I got this.” You rushed into the elevator and told Friday to take you to Loki.

The elevator lowered to the Library. Of course.

“Sorry, Mx. Anderson!” you yelled while running by their desk. “There will be yelling and possibly blood shed!”  You already know where he is.  He’s in the classics.  

There he was sitting on the couch, nonchalantly reading the Iliad.

“You’re a fucking bitch you know?  I really like this shirt!” you waved the knife in your hand around.

“Oh please.  You’re a healer, you’ll be fine.”

You crossed your arms, “LOKI. My fucking shirt.”

He raised his arms in defense. “It just a blood and a slight rip.”

You walked up to Loki and took off your shirt, thankfully you were wearing an undershirt that you didn’t care about.  You handed the shirt to him.  “Fix it then.”

He accepted the shirt and scoffed. “Fine.” He waved his hand over the shirt and it was now good as new.

“See, that was easy.” You grabbed the shirt and started to walk away.  “And don’t stab me again! I think two assassins would very happily kill you!”

NEXT CHAPTER 

Ice Cream or Blood

[thewildomega]

Feral Red Dog Ch.5

Opening your eyes the horror from your dreams faded away. Looking at the wall of the room you blinked. Bright light shinned in from the window facing out towards the garden, the pink petals from the cherry blossom trees floating in the breeze. What time was it? Hearing the ticking of a clock you moved your eyes around until they landed on a clock sitting on the dresser, 11:37? It was nearly noon but you were still so tired. Your body felt heavy and your mind fuzzy. Glancing down you blinked again, no clothes, only a white sheet and duvet covering you. Moving to roll over you hissed through your teeth and squeezed your eyes shut. Oh, oh damn it hurt, everything hurt. Making it to your back something red caught your eye and you turned your head enough to look at it. Red blotches spotted the white bedding, blood. Suddenly it all came back to you. 

You gotten married yesterday. To Sakazuki. Last night was your wedding night. The both of you had... mated... more than once you believed but you couldn't really remember much after the... Pushing your hand up to your neck you felt over the extremely tender wound with your trembling fingers. A bite, he had claimed you. Tears were quickly filling your eyes and rolling down your temples. He had done this, mated you and claimed you all against your will. Feeling your lip tremble you rolled back to your side. 

Crying there for a time you decided it was time to get up but when you moved to stand you choked back a sob. Holding your lower abdomen with your hand when the pain rippled there you paused. Regaining yourself you bit your lip as you pushed yourself to your feet, your legs unsteady. Looking back to the bed you saw more blood stains in the middle where he had taken your virtue. Dropping your head you took in a shaky breath and started towards the bathroom in the hall. Closing the door behind you you turned on the light and lifted your eyes to the mirror but gasped at what you saw. Bruises, bites, handprints, your body was littered with them. Your lips were swollen and red, looked to be a slight bruising to the bottom one as well. Looking down for the first time you noticed the smear of blood on the inside of your thighs. Licking your lips you turned on the water to the shower. 

After taking as hot of a shower as you could manage, scrubbing your body and whimpering when you rubbed over your raw feeling nipples and sex you got out. Drying off and brushing your teeth then hair you wrapped a towel around you, the things huge on you, and headed out towards the bedroom. After remembering that he had moved your clothes you went back into his room and peeked through the drawers until you found your clothes folded up and placed in beside his. Pulling them on proved to be a difficult task, at this point you weren't sure if the bruise there would be from you or him. 

Bathed and dressed you stripped the bed to be washed. You didn't much give a shit about pleasing him but you didn't want to keep looking at the proof of what had happened last night either. It hurt to move around much, your body feeling like you had been ran over by a wagon. After starting the wash you fixed yourself something to drink and a small breakfast. Sitting at the table you chewed your food slowly thinking how in the hell you had ended up in a situation like this. You regretted leaving that island now, you should have just stayed there like Garp and Sengoku had told you to. Sighing you finished the meal and drank the rest of your tea. Just what the hell did you do now?

.....................................

Finishing up with his work a little later than he wanted today he removed his hat long enough to brush his hair back before putting it back on. Stopping on his way home to pick up something for them both to eat since she never seemed to cook a decent meal he continued on his way with the paper bag in hand. Seeing the worker of the ice cream shop closing up for the day he let out a sigh, he should probably pay the young man for the ice cream his omega had stolen. Walking over to him he saw the man look up, his eyes widening a bit before speaking.

"Oh Vice Admiral w..what can I do for you? I was just closing up but if you would like some..."

"No. Yesterday you were yelling about someone running off without paying, a woman. It was my omega... I mean my wife. I assure you I have punished her for her crime and I would like to pay for it now." he told the young man, moving to take out his wallet. 

"Y..your wife? Sir that's not possible I mean... that can't be your wife." Seeing the terrifying man raise his brow he licked his lips. "I think there has been some mix up here sir."

"What do you mean? Yesterday you were yelling about a woman running off without paying and..."

"Sir it wasn't a woman, it was a girl. A little girl and her friend."

"You are sure? My wife said that you gave her the treat...for free."

"Oh yes I remember her, pretty young woman, red hair." he smiled but instantly straightened up when he saw the man's hard eyes. "I mean nothing by it sir. Yes I gave your wife a free sample." 

"Why?" he asked, his voice coming out deeper, the alpha in him thinking this young man was a threat to his omega.

"Well just because sir, she was walking by all by herself and she looked rather lonely so I thought it might help cheer her up. We have a new flavor anyways and sometimes giving out samples helps with business you know." he said with a small grin. "Your wife though she was very kind, kept asking if I was sure it was okay to give her some for free." 

She hadn't stole the ice cream, she wasn't a thief. She kept trying to tell him she hadn't but he didn't believed her, he had just assumed the worst of her. While yes she had left the house when he had told her not to, breaking one of the rules he had set and angering him he still felt guilty now for falsely accusing her. Last night he had even punished her for stealing and then lying about it. After spanking her repeatedly when she kept saying she had cried out what he thought was false innocence she had finally broke and admitted to the crime. But she had been innocent the whole time. "I see." he sighed. 

"I do hope she liked it, I had a big rush come over as soon I gave it to her so I never got to get her opinion on it."

Looking down to his wallet he pulled out a small bill, "I wouldn't know but how about making a small one of the same flavor and I'll let you know what she thinks tomorrow." 

Nodding the young man smiled, "Sure thing." 

Walking into his home with the bag in one hand and the small ice cream in the other he removed his shoes at the door, tossing his hat and keys to the entry table. He could hear the dryer going but that was it. Knitting his brows when something hit his nose he quietly walked into the dining room and stopped when he saw the table set. Two bowls of what sorta looked like beef stir fry and two cups of tea were placed at their spots at the small table. She had made dinner, an actual dinner. He didn't yet know how it tasted but it at least smelled good.

Setting the ice cream and take out on the counter he went in search of his omega wife. She hadn't been in the living room or kitchen, the bathroom door was open and he didn't see her in either of the rooms. He did however notice that the bed had no blankets on it, only sheets. Getting angry at first when the idea that she may have yet again ran away filled his mind he was walking towards the door, about to yell her name when he stopped. Back up a step he turned towards the door to the garden and saw it was partially opened. Sliding the door open the rest of the way he looked outside and saw her there. Walking quietly over to her he saw her laying on her front in the grass with her arms crossed under her head, a book beneath them. One look to her face and he could tell she was sleeping. 

Breathing out he thought of what to do. On one hand he didn't want to wake her, she looked so peaceful right now but on the other she hadn't eaten yet and she was still thin. No he had to wake her, she had to eat. Crouching down beside her he brushed back the lock of hair that had fallen to her face and gently shook her shoulder. "Y/n. Come on wake up." he spoke in a deep low voice but she only groaned in response. Sighing he shook her a little harder. "Omega I said wake up." 

" 'm sleepy." you told the meanie as he tried to wake you, lifting your arm to try and push away his hand that was shaking you. 

Grabbing her wrist he knit his brows at the red area on her palm. "What happened to your hand?"

"Burnt it while cookin' supper." 

Sighing he scooped her up into his arms and stood, feeling her tense and then whine. "Hush, you can sleep after you eat something." Taking her into the dining room he set the book she had been reading on the counter before sitting her in her spot and saw her wince but didn't say anything for now. Moving to his own spot he set down and grabbed the chop sticks. Looking down sat the food he rose a brow but took some and placed it in his mouth. To say he was pleasantly surprised was an understatement. It was actually decently good. Glancing over to her as he chewed his second bite he saw her head dipped down, only lifting enough to place a piece of beef into her mouth. 

Refusing to look up to him you waited for him to start complaining. You knew it wasn't the best food in the world but you thought it was better than the fish you had attempted to cook. Still you knew he would have something hurtful to say. He wouldn't care if you had tried your best on it, if it wasn't perfect then it didn't matter. 

Watching her slowly eat, refusing to meet his eyes he swallowed the food in his mouth and reached for the tea. It was cold, the same as the food but too be fair he had been later than normal today. Besides, holding the cup in his hand he instantly warmed it back up to the right temperature. taking a sip and then placing it down he saw her eyes look the steaming drink, her brow twitching before she looked back down. Seeing her collar fall some he took sight of the deep and angry looking claiming mark on her neck and felt his lip twitch. Mixing the food a bit he glanced to her and then the food, taking a breath. "The rice is overcooked and a bit too much soy sauce..." watching her shoulders curl up some he licked his lips. "...There's room for improvement but it's good.... I like it."

What? Had you heard him right? Slowly looking up to him you saw his face relaxed for once and grinned a little. It wasn't an outright compliment but you would take it. 

"Where did you learn to make it?" he asked as he continued eating. 

"Tsuru used to make it for me."

Humming he swallowed, "That explains the overuse of soy sauce, I believe the woman could drink the stuff. Probably why her face is always scrunched up." he said and heard a small giggle. Shooting his eyes to his wife he saw her smiling some as she looked down to her bowl. He couldn't help but grin a little at the cheerful sound.

The rest of their meal was spent in silence. He finished before her and when he glanced to her bowl he saw she still had a little of rice left but she didn't look as if she wanted any more of it. Figuring she was done eating he had stood and moved to grab her Ice Cream, sitting it in front of her. 

Looking down at the ice cream you knit your brows and then lifted your eyes up to his to see him starring down at you. He looked even more humongous from this view. 

"I know you didn't steal the ice cream yesterday." he told her in a low voice. He hated admitting when he was wrong, when he had done wrong. 

Dropping your eyes back to the frozen treat you bit the inside of your lip. 

"Well aren't you going to eat it?"

Taking a deep breath you looked back up to him. "No." 

Growling he narrowed his eyes at her, "Why not? 

Grabbing the small cup you stood, holding back your discomfort and moved over to the kitchen. "Because this doesn't make it all better. This doesn't make what you did right." hearing his growl deepen and seeing his lip lift into a snarl you kept your head up, refusing to back down. 

"EAT IT!"

"NO! You hurt me, you punished me for a crime I didn't commit! I tried telling you I didn't steal it but you didn't believe me. You didn't even give me a chance to explain you just chose to think the worst of me!" you yelled back, dropping the ice cream into the trash. 

Seeing her throw away the treat he had bought for her he snarled, steam rolling from his shoulders. "Well if you hadn't left the house like I told you to none of that would have happened in the first place!"

"I am not your prisoner! You can't keep me locked up in this damn house for the rest of my life!"

Chuckling darkly he moved closer to her, starring down at her. "Can't I?" he asked and saw her brows knit together. Backing her up to the cabinet he placed his hands on either side of her to block her in and leaned over her some. "I know omegas aren't the brightest bunch but I will only say this once more so you would do well to remember it. You are mine. You belong to me. I own you therefor I can do whatever I want with you. If I want to never have you see the light of day again it will be so. If I want to chain you to my bed and make you my own personal fuck toy I will. I am your alpha and you will obey me."

"You're no better than a damn pirate." you hissed. 

Clenching his teeth he had his hand fisted in her hair before she knew it. Holding onto her tightly while his other hand unbuckled his belt and undid his pants he felt her try and push him away but it didn't even make him budge. Pulling down the waistband of his boxers he allowed his already hard member spring free. When she averted her eyes, refusing to even look at his cock he only smirked. "I am getting fed up with that sass of yours. This mouth is for sucking my cock not talking back." Gripping his cock he tilted her head back and tapped the head on her closed lips. "Open." When her bruised lips remained shut he snarled, "Open!" he commanded, using his alpha voice. Seeing them part a little he pushed the tip past her lips but then stopped and glared down at her when a thought crossed his mind. "You bite me little one and I will make your life a living hell." he warned. 

Feeling him press his cock into your mouth you gave an small suck and heard him let out a sigh. When he kept his painful grip in your hair you felt him slowly push your head down to take him deeper. It didn't take long for him to hit the back of your throat, making you let out a small gag. Instantly you tried to stand back to full height but he only pinned you to the cabinets. 

She had only taken about half of him and she was already gagging. Rolling his eyes he reminded himself that she had never done this before he urged her to take more. When he had forced most of it down her throat he let out a deep moan and let his head fall back some. Damn she felt good. No she wasn't skilled but her mouth and throat were warm and tight. 

Pushing on his hips when you ran out of air you heard him let out a deep breath and loosen his grip just a little, the pain no longer making your scalp burn. Coming off you sucked at the tip but then heard him speak again, his voice deep and husky. 

"Use your tongue." 

His voice was gruff but you obeyed. Cupping the underside with your tongue you heard him breath out a 'Good omega.' not caring at all for the way it made a pressure build between your thighs. Sucking harder you felt him bob your head up and down until soon you caught on to the rhythm and found yourself fucking him with your mouth. A mixture of saliva and precum dripped down your chin but he didn't seem to notice. Nor for the tears leaking from the corner of your eyes. 

She was starting to learn. Good. Smirking he loosened the grip in her hair and started petting her head. "That's it, keep sucking your alpha's cock." he said in a low voice. He was close but he held back.

Your jaw now ached along with the rest of your body. It had been almost fifteen minutes now and he had not let you stop. You were sure your throat would be bruised from the pounding of his dick. How desperate your lungs were to get a full breath of air. When you felt his thighs that were bigger around than your waist start to flex and then his hand in your hair tighten again you glanced up at him. He looked at you once, his lip twitching as he pulled almost the whole way out. Was he done? Before you could think hard on it he was shoving back in, plunging his thick dick down your throat and filling it with a hot, bitter fluid. His deep growls and grunts filled the air of the home. You tried to pull away, push him away but he held you in place, you closed your lips around his shaft as it threatened to spill out. Choking on it you felt some drip out of the corners of your mouth. When he had filled your entire mouth with his seed he slowly pulled out and glared down at you with those cold black eyes. 

Holding the back of her neck to keep her upright he glared down at her. "Swallow." he commanded. He could see the will to fight in her eyes but with a lift of his lip she finally submitted and he watched her throat bob as she swallowed his seed. Grabbing her jaw with his other hand he squeezed, wiping up the drop of cum on her chin and pushing his thumb up to her lips. "Open." he said and pushed the drop into her mouth when she did, making sure she had swallowed all of it. "Now that wasn't so hard was it?" he told her. She said nothing in reply and he smirked as he released her and stepped back. "Clean up dinner." was all he said before walking away. 

Standing where he had left you for a moment you heard the shower turn. Tears rolled down your cheeks and you felt sick to your stomach. Shaking you turned and stumbled over to the table to clean up. Once that all was done you placed the take out food he had gotten in the fridge before moving to grab the dried blankets for his bed. Quickly making it you turned off the lights and moved to the guest bedroom, curling up under the covers, tears spilling from your eyes. 

Getting out of the shower he checked the kitchen and dining room to find them both clean. Huffing he grinned, good girl. Walking to his bedroom he pulled on a pair of boxers and went to get into bed when he saw it empty, only the freshly cleaned bedding there. Narrowing his eyes he walked to the guest bedroom door and saw it cracked. Pushing it open he saw her sleeping on the bed, curled up tightly under the covers. While he wanted to wake her, demand she go get into his bed he took notice of her light shaking from leftover sobs and sighed. Closing his eyes he turned and walked out of the room, cracking the door back and moving to his own empty bed. Sniffing the bedding he growled lightly, it didn't even smell like her. Dropping his head down to his pillow he closed his eyes and went to sleep. 

A/N: Comments always welcome. :)

[aethelflaedladyofmercia]

Hey, everyone! I’ve been saying for a bit I want to get some fics from prompts I’ve written onto AO3 but...it’s so hard...ok it’s not hard, Executive Dysfunction is just kicking my butt. I’m going to post some of them to Tumblr today. If you want to help these babies get on AO3, they need: titles, tags, you pestering me in the comments. If you don’t think they’re good enough for AO3 - fair enough, just hit the little heart if they make you smile!

Prompt: Aziraphale reading to Crowley

(Requested by @zadusk and @lyricwritesprose)

“Sorry, can’t help you,” the innkeeper said, “just rented out our last room.”

“What?” Crowley crossed his arms, huffing through his nose. This was Bethlehem all over again. “This town is in the middle of nowhere, it has three inns, how can they all be sold out?”

“I don’t know what to tell you.” The innkeeper shut the ledger. “Everyone’s headed down to London, and we’re on the way. Now. I can offer you a hot meal, and for, let’s say, half the price of a room you can sleep in the stables. The hay loft is clean, apart from the mice—”

“Stablesss!” Crowley hissed, slapping his hand on the counter. “Do I look like someone who sleeps in stables?”

The innkeeper didn’t appear remotely impressed. “You look like someone who is going to be sleeping in a hedge. Looks like a storm tonight. Good evening.” And he spun away, calling out to the cook in the back room.

“Oi!” Crowley shouted. “Get back here, you—!”

“Crowley! Whatever are you doing here?” The familiar voice was half delighted, half scolding. Aziraphale appeared beside him, same white suit as the last time they’d met, top hat tucked under his arm. “I thought I made it clear we shouldn’t see each other so often. Since I opened the shop, it’s been—”

“Yes, I know.” Crowley waved a hand and turned away. “I’m not here for you, Angel, I have actual business in York.”

“Really?” Despite his words, Aziraphale trailed behind him. “How interesting. I’m just returning from York – oh, no, you don’t think they’ve sent you to undo all my work again, do you?”

Crowley snorted. “No bet.” He dropped his voice into a low whisper. “This is why we need to meet up more often. Look at all this time we’re wasting! And now I have to march through the bloody night in the rain because there’s no place to sleep—”

“Oh! Well, I wouldn’t dream of it. You can share my room.”

“Ngk?!” Crowley’s brain crashed into his skull with all the speed and grace of a train wreck. “Mf. Yk. No I can’t – Aziraphale!”

“Oh, my word – obviously, I’m not planning – that!” His voice dropped even lower and he tugged on Crowley’s elbow. “Don’t be crude, dear fellow. I have a room with a bed that I’m not intending to use. You can have it. I just need a chair to sit in while I read.”

“Jgk.” Crowley turned away, taking a deep breath through his nose. It made sense. He could sleep. Aziraphale could read. No getting soaked, or lost in the dark, or needing to fight off highwaymen or anything of the sort. “Fffine. We can. Er. Do that.”

“Jolly good.” He could practically hear the angel straightening his waistcoat. “Now that’s settled. I’ve already had my supper and was about to head up. Unless you’re hungry—”

“No, no, now is fine.” He still couldn’t quite meet Aziraphale’s eyes. “Lead the way.”

The room, it turned out, was nearly as advertised.

A double-sized bed with a straw-tick and a quilt. A little stand with a pitcher of water and bowl for washing up. Windows that could be tightly shuttered to block out some of the city noise.

The only thing missing, really, was the chair.

“Oh.” Aziraphale’s fingers tapped on his book and he glanced around, as if a seat might be hiding in the corner. “Well, er…”

“It’s fine. I can leave.” Crowley turned on his heel and reached for the latch.

“Absolutely not! I won’t hear of it. You get settled and I’ll – ah – I’ll miracle in a chair.” He peered around the narrow room. “Somewhere.”

“Look, I can—”

“No. Miracle yourself a nightgown or whatever it is you need.”

“I—”

“Hush!”

Resigning himself, Crowley waved his clothes into something more comfortable for sleeping and crawled under the blanket. It was…slightly better than sleeping in the stables, he supposed. The straw was lumpy and the sheet covering it coarse, but the pillow was well-stuffed with goose-down, a luxury he could get used to. He shifted onto his back, trying to find a comfortable angle.

Instead, he found Aziraphale, standing beside the bed, staring blankly at the wall. “There…well…it would appear there isn’t room for a chair,” he confessed. “Not one that will fit my, er…my current corporation comfortably, that is.”

Crowley looked at the ceiling. He could sleep up there, but it would mean abandoning the pillow. Or. Or.

“Look, Angel,” he said as casually as he could. You can, um, you can sit on the bed. I’m not going to be offended or anything. It’s fine.”

“No, I couldn’t – couldn’t possibly—”

“Aziraphale. It’s really fine.”

The quilt tugged, folded back, and with a rustle of straw Aziraphale settled into the mattress. He sat straight, stiff, and so close to the edge he might topple off.

Even so, he was alarmingly close.

“You, um. You need the candle?”

“No, my own light will be sufficient, thank you.”

“Yeah. Obviously.” Crowley tossed his glasses onto the little table and waved a finger at the candle, which immediately snuffed out, leaving the room dark except for the soft glow of Aziraphale, gently illuminating his book.

Crowley closed his eyes and prepared to fall asleep.

He turned onto one side. No good, too close to the edge.

He turned the other way, or started to, freezing when he felt how close the angel’s warmth was.

Then he lay on his back again. The whole room fell very, very still.

“Bless it, Aziraphale, will you relax?”

“I beg your pardon?”

“I can practically hear your muscles creaking. How am I supposed to all asleep with all that – that tension barely six inches away!”

“I don’t know what you might be referring to. I am – am perfectly relaxed here, reading my book and you – you interrupt with these – these pointless accusations.”

Crowley gave up and turned on his side, facing Aziraphale, giving him as hard a stare as he could manage. “Your book is upside down, Angel.”

“Is it?” He swallowed. “I mean, of course it is. I am training myself to read upside-down text, a highly useful skill, which I’m sure—”

Crowley shut his eyes. “This was a terrible idea.” He sat up, swinging his legs off the bed.

“Where are you going?”

“Look, Aziraphale, neither of us is actually comfortable with this. So I’m just going to head out. If I leave now, I might make it to the next town before the rain starts, and maybe they’ll have a room. You can have this one and—”

“Crowley,” he said, voice much softer than expected. “My dear fellow. I won’t be able to relax knowing you’re out there. I know you won’t be in – in any real danger but…I would rather know that you’re safe.”

He stared ahead, sitting perfectly still in the way that only beings who aren’t really alive can – no breath, no heartbeat, no tiny motions.

Then, slowly, Crowley pulled his legs back under the quilt and lay on his back.

“What’s this book about, anyway?” he asked.

“Aren’t you supposed to be sleeping?”

“It’ll help. Trust me. What is it – poetry? Ancient epics about glorious wars? Not Hamlet again, I hope, that play is a gloomy mess of—”

“No, nothing of the sort. It’s…well, it’s a sort of love story.”

That didn’t sound too bad. “Sort of?”

“Well, yes, it’s more a – a study of the manners and traditions of courtship. Our heroine is the second of five sisters, and there’s a great deal riding on finding them suitable husbands, but her choices are, well…not especially appealing.”

“Does she tell them to go jump in a lake?”

“Not in so many words,” Aziraphale said disapprovingly. “But yes, she has so far turned down two proposals quite bitingly. Although I think she was a bit hasty in her judgement of one of the young men.”

“I like it.” Crowley turned to look at Aziraphale, and found the angel had relaxed, and moved just a little closer. “What’s it called, anyway?”

“Pride and Prejudice.” His fingers tapped against it. “Just released last year. I must try and find the author’s other work when I finish.”

“Well, you’ll have to tell me how it ends.”

“Oh, are you…interested?”

“Hmm,” Crowley settled his head a little further into the pillow. “I do like a good drawing room drama. Perhaps I should pick out a few dresses and spend a year or two back in those circles.”

“As I recall, you were always deceitful and wicked and caused many a scandal.”

“I should hope so. Otherwise, what’s the point?”

Aziraphale smiled down at him, and it made Crowley feel light-headed in a way that had nothing to do with sleep. “Then I imagine you’ll be brilliant at it.” He suddenly turned away, looking at the shuttered window. “Oh! Do you hear that? The rain has started.” The first drops were tapping against the shutters fitfully.

“Good thing I didn’t go out.”

“Yes.” Aziraphale looked at the book again. “Er, would you like me to…to read it to you? Just the first part, until you fall asleep.”

“I…” Crowley cleared his throat. “Yeah. I mean, your voice puts me to sleep half the time anyway, so…”

“Oh, yes, absolutely wonderful. Let me just get the first volume.” He hopped out of bed and hurried over to his jacket, rummaging in the pocket to pull out another hardcover book. When he returned to the bed, it was with almost no self-consciousness, wriggling comfortably against his pillow only a few inches away from Crowley.

“Now, let’s see…yes, here. ‘It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife…’”

It was strange, seeing the angel from this angle, round face slightly lit by his own glow, little smile curving up his lips as the words bubbled out excitedly. His voice rose and fell as he read, trying to paint a picture of Longbourne and Netherfield and the lives of the Bennet sisters. Crowley could get used to it, the look, the sound, the soft familiarity of it all. Not that he was likely to have an opportunity.

He didn’t close his eyes. Not yet.

--

“‘But I can assure you,’ she added,” Aziraphale was quite enjoying the voice he had chosen for Mrs. Bennet, raising it now in slightly erratic excitement. “‘that Lizzy does not lose much by not suiting his fancy; for he is a most disagreeable, horrid man, not at all worth pleasing.’” He shifted again, raising his arm to better articulate the dialogue. “‘So high and so conceited that there was no enduring him! He walked here, and he walked there, fancying himself so very great! Not handsome enough to dance with!’” He dropped his voice into a vicious hiss. “‘I wish you had been there, my dear, to have given him one of your set downs. I quite detest the man.’”

He glanced to his left, grinning, hoping to see Crowley’s reaction to his bit of acting, but the demon had at some point fallen asleep. He lay half on his back, still facing Aziraphale, shock of red hair across the white pillow. His mouth hung slightly open and something emerged that was almost a snore, but rather too small to really qualify. It was drowned out by the wind and rain outside, rattling the shutters. Now and then, in the distance, thunder rumbled.

“Well. I suppose…yes, you sleep now.” Aziraphale turned to put the book down, thinking to find the second volume and pick up where he’d left off.

“Nf.” Crowley turned onto his side, one arm flinging out towards Aziraphale’s waist. “D’n stp,” he mumbled. “Jus’ gettn gud.”

“Er, are you…awake?” The arm tightened slightly, and Crowley pulled closer, pressing himself against Aziraphale’s side. “Crowley, er, dear…you’re…”

“M’fine.” He sighed, not seeming aware of the world at all. “S’nice.”

For a long moment, Aziraphale stared at the demon who had – had invaded his space. Had settled against him in a most – most awkward and undignified way.

Well. There was really only one thing to do.

Aziraphale slid a little lower against the pillow, until he’d surrounded Crowley in the crook of his arm. “Is that better, dear?”

“St’ry.” But he settled into that space between Aziraphale’s side and his arm with a content sigh, arm now draped across the angel’s chest.

Oh, dear. This is not going to be easy to explain when he wakes up. But that wouldn’t be for several hours, at least, and right now, there was a very small smile on Crowley’s lips.

“Well. Chapter four. ‘When Jane and Elizabeth were alone, the former, who had been cautious in her praise of Mr. Bingley before, expressed to her sister how very much she admired him…’”

--

Thanks for reading! Pride and Prejudice was initially published in three volumes, in 1813, attributed simply to “The Author of Sense and Sensibility.” I have no idea what was going on in York in 1814 - I mostly needed someplace they could walk to but would take several days - so feel free to attribute whatever historical events you can think of to these dummies! 

[farfromsugafanfic]

Maid To Be

Genre: Regency AU, slight friends to lovers

Pairing: Namjoon/Named Reader

Warnings: Accidental groping, awkward Joon, a little cringe at times but in a cute way

Synopsis: Marriage wasn’t something you thought about much as a maid. You knew you would end up wherever your mistress, Dorothea, did. Despite the encouragement of your employers, you planned to live your life as Dorothea’s maid forever. When her attractive cousins come to visit, you can’t help but notice how much they’ve changed.

Note: A continuation to “Rabbit Hunting” and part of my larger Regency AU series of one shots.

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"Miss Cooke!" Mrs. Kim called from the entrance parlor. You dropped the duster and rushed out to the main parlor where the elder Miss Kim, a basket full of wildflowers and her hair and absolute mess. "Please help Thea dress for supper tonight. It seems she couldn't keep her composure during one simple outing."

Dorothea rolled her eyes and headed towards the room, dropping the wildflowers off on the table near the door. She seemed to have a dreamy look in her eyes. The elder sister was always prone to fantasies--both Kim sisters were in fact--but there was something different about the glaze over her eyes. If you didn't know any better, you would guess this wasn't just any morning walk.

"Oh, Miss Cooke what am I going to do with that girl? It'll be a miracle if I can find a gentleman to marry her. A gentleman is more likely to fall for a maid like you than a girl like her, even with her breeding!"

"Oh, Mrs. Kim, I'm sure that's not true," you said, ignoring Mrs. Kim's slight on your station. She hadn't meant any offense, but you still felt like you'd been punched in the stomach. "Any man would be lucky to marry either of your daughters. Now, would you like me to send for some tea? Maybe that will help you relax before we have out visitors."

"That sounds lovely, Miss Cooke."

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"Oh Eliza, he was so infuriating! Insulting our sex and then suddenly changing his mind! And, I don't even know what favor he wanted to ask me!" You tightened Dorothea's corset causing the last syllable to come out a slightly higher pitch.

"Yet, you're still hoping there'll be a ball so that you can dance with him." You raised your eyebrow as the girl turned around and you helped her into her dress. Dorothea blushed. The girl was a couple years younger than you and you'd been with her family so long that the Kim sisters felt more like your younger sisters than your mistresses.

"Well, it would be improper of me to turn him down if he asks." You laughed and Dorothea soon joined you.

"Your mother will be thrilled. If he's interested that is," you said. "It sounds like he's a suitable gentleman. Considering he's friends with your cousins."

"I can only hope," Dorothea said. "Who knows, maybe there will be a gentleman for you?" She nudged your side lightly as she sat down at her vanity and allowed you to brush your hair. You brushed it out and braided it back into a bun in a way that flattered her face.

"Oh, don't be silly, Thea," you said. "A gentleman would never look my way. And, even if they did, they would know it's improper."

"Maybe you'll find one that doesn't care about propriety. If my memory serves me correctly, didn't you and my cousin, Seokjin, have a flirtation the last time they visited?"

You laughed. "Seokjin and I are simply a friendly flirtation. We are good friends, that's all Thea. The man is a natural flirt and I like to tease him about it."

"Oh, wouldn't it be marvelous if you married one of my cousins! We'd be cousins then, Eliza!"

"Thea, you know I will go to whatever estate you end up the Lady of. I will never leave you."

"Oh Eliza, I hope you meet a rich gentleman, so you don't have to be a maid anymore."

"I like being a maid."

Dorothea looked at you like a forlorn puppy, and huffed slightly. After a few moments of taking in your figure, her face lit up and she told you wait there for a moment. When she came back she carried a small bundle of wildflowers, she held a few up against your hair before sliding a violet colored flower behind your ear.

"Please wear it while you serve supper," Eliza said. "I wish you could eat with us."

"Your mother is already kind with allowing the staff to eat the nice food that you and the gentlemen eat. Don't worry about me, worry about wooing Mr. Jeon tonight."

The mention of the gentleman's name caused the girl to become dreamy once again. She sat down at her vanity and began to put the finishing touches on her look.

"Now, don't do anything too strenuous that will ruin your hair. Your mother will blame me this time."

The girl nodded and left the room to work on the centerpieces. As you worked, you remembered the last time the Kim brothers visited. They were much younger, Seokjin being the only one who was close to marrying age. You'd heard he, too, hadn't married. You'd had a girlish crush on the eldest brother, so much so, that you only had a few memories of the two younger ones.

They all treated you as if you were their cousin and not their maid. They knew Mrs. Kim had taken you in as a charity when you were a young orphaned girl with nowhere else to go. She was the closest thing to a mother you had. She was kind enough to teach you some skills, in the hopes that you may marry someone with a decent job that would allow you to work less or if you were lucky, not at all. But, you would never reach the level of the Kims. It wasn't unheard of, but so rare you didn't dare dream. You weren't like Dorothea, you didn't have the money to dream.

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"Miss Cooke, it's wonderful to see you again," Seokjin said, allowing you to take off his jacket and place it in the closet.

"A pleasure as always, Mr. Kim." You turned to see more men working their way into the parlor. All of them handsome. All of them filthy rich. By the time the carriages were unloaded, there were seven in all.

You spotted one with a yellow flower tucked into his collar and you smiled in recognition of Mr. Jeon. His eyes seemed to be flitting around the parlor and up the stairs.

"Looking for the elder, Miss Kim?" you asked, smirking.

"Um, uh, yes, how did you know?"

"Ah, Miss Cooke knows everything around here," Taehyung said, coming through the door and clapping a hand on his friend's shoulder. "You really should get on her good side."

You smiled at Taehyung, immediately remembering his boxy smile and the way he had been infatuated with you when you were children.

You helped each man out of their coat learning their names as you went: Mr. Jeon, Mr. Min, Mr. Jung, and Mr. Park. The middle Kim brother was the last one. He was the one you didn't remember all that well. He had always been the tallest, but he was very shy growing up, opting most of the time to keep himself content in the library.

"Mr. Kim, you've matured much since I last saw you," you said, taking his jacket and hanging it beside the rest of the men's jackets.

"You have as well, Miss Cooke."

When you turned back around, you met his eyes, the first time in the interaction. You hardly remembered how handsome he was: his intelligent eyes and dimples nearly knocking you off your feet.

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Dinner was a frenzy. You worked to serve all the food at once. You had just sat down a plate of vegetables and turning to head back to the kitchen when you felt something brush the backside of your skirt.

You face reddened and you turned around, in disbelief that any of the so-called gentlemen would touch you in such a way, but when you met eyes with the guilty gentleman, he seemed just as embarrassed as you. Namjoon's eyes were wide and he was holding up his hands.

"Miss Cooke, please don't think that I would mean to touch you in such away. I was simply trying to reach out for attention. Please forgive me."

"'Tis nothing, sir. I can see from your face you had no ill intentions."

You quickly excused yourself to the kitchen and never met the man's eyes again. You heard indistinct chattering among the guests, but could clearly hear the Namjoon's brother's teasing him.

"I would've paid to see Miss Cooke take a whack at you," Taehyung said. "When she turned around it certainly looked like she wanted to."

"The look on your face must've frazzled her. She's never called any of us 'sir' before."

The other's boys laughed and you made a point to tune out the rest of their conversation as you ate in the kitchen with the rest of the staff.

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"Miss Cooke," Namjoon said to you as you retrieved his jacket for him that night. Just like when he arrived, he was the last one to leave. "I want to apologize for what happened at dinner. I didn't mean to embarrass you."

"It's quite all right, Mr. Kim. Accidents happen and a little embarrassment is good for the ego."

Mr. Kim turned around his gaze felt hot against your skin. "Oh, I nearly forgot," he said, reaching into his pocket. Your eyes widened when he pulled out the small violet flower Miss Kim had placed behind your ear earlier that day. "You dropped this while you were serving. That's, uh, why I was trying to get your attention before."

He hesitantly reached up and placed it back behind you ear, smoothing back your hair as he did so, you ensure it wouldn't become tangled around the plant.

"I thought you might want it back. It flatters you."

You blushed and curtsied to thank him. He left with a polite farewell and as you closed the door you felt like all the air drained out of the room.

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You had managed to avoid the Kim brothers and specifically Namjoon all day. You'd of course greeted them, but you felt you cheeks grow warm when Namjoon smiled when he spotted the flower still tucked behind your ear. You knew you couldn't be around him the rest of the day or else you might lose your composure.

It was nearly the end of the day and you'd finished your duties early, Mrs. Kim insisting that you take the night off. Even telling you that the Kim brothers wouldn't mind seeing themselves out.

The night before they had announced that they were hosting a ball at Finchfield. The two Miss Kims had been so delighted it was all they could talk about. You were happy that Dorothea was finally going to get to dance with Mr. Jeon, because it was obvious from the night before that the feelings were mutual. And, you were sure the younger Miss Kim would find a suitable partner as well.

You entered the library--your favorite place to go whenever Mrs. Kim allowed you the night off--and you were startled to find the three brother's inside. The furniture pushed to the side while Taehyung and Namjoon stood across from each other, halfway through the steps of a country dance.

"Miss Cooke!" Seokjin said. "What impeccable timing! We were just complaining about the lack of female partners. We were just teaching Namjoon how to dance. I'm not sure how he got this far into life without learning how to do a simple Country Dance."

"The offer flatters me, Mr. Kim. But, wouldn't one of your cousins be a much more suitable partner?"

"Ah, but see Miss Cooke, my younger brother is embarrassed to admit to his younger cousins that he does not know how to dance. Please will you save him the embarrassment?"

"See, the thing is, Mr. Kim, I don't know how to dance either."

"Even more perfect! Namjoon won't be as embarrassed if his partner also can't dance! It might make our job harder, but we're willing to sacrifice."

You could already see through the Kim brother's antics, but it appeared Namjoon was nearly as embarrassed as you, but as you went to stand across from him, he bowed politely.

The dance was simple, you'd seen it a few times when balls were held at the Kim estate, but you were never allowed to attend a ball as a guest.

You followed the instructions, meeting Namjoon's eyes only for a moment, before pulling away again. Your hands softly touched as you swiftly came together before pulling apart again.

"Your flower hasn't wilted," he said, nodding towards the flower tucked behind your ear.

"I put it in water last night," you said. "I want to make sure it lasts as long as possible."

"Mr. Jeon did the same with his. I think he's really quite taken with my cousin."

"Hm, I should think so. She's quite taken with him as well. She talks about how infuriating he is, but I can see straight through her. Last night was the first time I've seen her speechless."

When Dorothea had walked in and spotted Mr. Jeon with the flower tucked into his collar, she couldn't keep the blush off her cheeks or the smile off her face.

"I expect I'll be moving to Mr. Jeon's estate within the year."

The dance stopped.

"Why would you move to Mr. Jeon's?"

"I plan to go wherever the eldest Miss Kim goes," you said. "Our bond is that of sisters and I can't think of living here without her."

"Oh, I see." Taehyung cleared his throat which caused you and Namjoon to look back over at the youngest brother. "Ah, yes, thank you, Miss Cooke for humoring my brothers, and for the dance. You're not a bad dancer, although, I may not be the best judge of that."

You curtsied and quickly grabbed the book you had come in for and left the library on shaky legs, trying to get the feel of the light touches from the dance off your hands.

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It was the night of the dance and you had settled into the window seat of the library. You had nearly the whole manor house to yourself, except for the other staff. You had just finished the first chapter of a new novel when the library door opened.

"Mr. Kim! Shouldn't be headed to the ball?"

"Uh, yes," he said. "Yes, I should. But, I couldn't go without reserving my first dance for the person who taught me to dance. And, it will give me one last practice."

"Oh, Mr. Kim, I'm flattered, but I don't want to make you late."

"I will always have time for you, Miss Cooke. But, if you truly don't wish to dance with me, allow me to add to your collection."

He reached out and handed you a book--a modern collection of poetry. "I saw you took a book of poetry yesterday. I thought you might enjoy this one. I have another copy back home, so feel free to keep this one."

Your eyes became misty. It was the first book you owned. You always borrowed from the library which Mrs. Kim was generous to allow you to do in the first place.

"Finchfield has a wonderful library, too. I'm not sure why the previous owner left it, but perhaps one day if you accompany Miss Kim, I can find a reason for you to spend the day there."

"Mr. Kim, this is all too much. How can I ever thank you?"

"Allow me to the pleasure of the first dance?"

"Of course," you said.

You both stumbled through the steps. You didn't quite remember and Namjoon hadn't quite perfected it yet, but when your hands touched for the brief moment, you were overcome with joy. You knew it couldn't last and that you and Mr. Kim could never be together, but even for the moment it felt like you were more than a maid. You were allowed to dream for just a moment.

Namjoon left not long after the dance, leaning down to kiss your hand before he left, something he would never do if anyone else were around.

You set aside the novel and opened up the book of poetry. Inside he had written a short inscription: May the prettiest flower never wilt.