#I’m sorry I can’t draw nice things to show my gratitude

[harmonictechnicality]

*based off this awesome art right here by @chocoarts - the sketch on the left in particular :)

It doesn’t take long for Steve to get used to Eddie’s raised-by-wolves levels of affection. The hair chewing and the shoulder nibbles and the freckle licking. It’s never classified normal stuff - definitely not stuff he ever did with dainty Hawkins High girls, that’s for damn sure.

But still, it takes no time to get used to it. Full on expects it, by now. The most notable time that Steve is expecting it is on their one year anniversary.

Two months prior to the Big Day, Eddie's spontaneity and Steve's boredom led to an impulsive stick-and-poke tattoo on Steve's forearm. Eddie wanted to give Steve a simple crown. Told him it was to reclaim the stupid nickname from high school, make it his own.

'Overthrow all the teenaged bullshit. Kick trauma in the metaphorical ass.' Eddie had said after completing it, smiling up at Steve. 'It's what kings do best.'

After that day, Steve decides to add on to his impulsive tattoo and surprise Eddie with it. He gets one small bat, just like the ones on Eddie's arm. Gets it right next to the crown, side-by-side. The same way they all fought together a while back.

As soon as Eddie sees the addition, he tackles Steve, linebacker style. Steve is ready for it, totally braces for the aggressive affection. Fucking loves it. Expects it.

However, Eddie doesn't just stop there. Oh no. He climbs up Steve's body, tightly wrapping his arms around Steve's neck. Wraps his legs around Steve's upper arms even tighter.

Which... how the hell did Eddie get so flexible? And when the hell did Eddie get so flexible? Like, yeah they do some semi-contortionist stuff in the bedroom, mostly when they're hyped up on sugary soft drinks.

But this? This is... new. Wild.

He clutches on to Steve like he's a goddamn tree trunk. Some rare tree species that's in grave danger of being chopped down from the rainforest or whatever. He’s making lots of pleased sounds, singing maybe. Hard to tell for sure.

Steve holds Eddie firmly, hands underneath his thigh, his back, anywhere that he can get a solid grip. Keeps him safe from whatever corporate bulldozer that dares to take down their weirdly amazing love.

"Shit, I'm crazy about you." Eddie nuzzles into Steve's hair. "Like... totally and completely."

Steve laughs, comes out a bit strangled from the way Eddie is clinging to him. "Guessing you like it, huh?"

"Duh." Eddie slides off, connecting their hands on his way down.

"It represents-"

"I know what it represents." Eddie interrupts, his expression softens from the reminder, the difficult topic they're both skipping around. "You don't have to say it."

He does though, Steve has to say it. Needs to say it the same exact way Eddie had said it to him two months ago.

Because yeah, they act tough about what went down that night. But that doesn't mean they should just be stuck in a cycle of Acting Tough. Pretending to be okay all the damn time.

So Steve takes Eddie's arm, the one that's covered with tiny bat silhouettes. He holds their two arms together and carefully brushes over each tattoo design. Tells Eddie to reclaim the stupid scars that litter his body.

"Fight off all the inter-dimensional bullshit. Kick trauma's metaphorical ass." Steve smiles up at Eddie, who suddenly looks serious, focused. "It's what heroes do best."

"Steve." The seriousness is wiped clean off of Eddie's face. It's quickly replaced with a gentle grin. Relief reaching over his furrowed brow. No more worry lines. No more grimace. He looks at ease. Content, maybe.

And as much as Steve enjoys making Eddie feel content, he wants him happier right now. So he switches up the energy, tries to lighten the mood a little. Steve hooks his fingers into Eddie's front pockets, readying to pull him in.

It's predictable, been his go to make-out move any time they're standing up. This is a special fucking day, however, and that calls for a Special Edition Make-Out Move.

So Steve digs each hand deep into Eddie's pockets, wiggles them around a bit. Watches Eddie's cheeks go pink, blotchy red in some places. Steve moves all of the coins and lint and questionable items out of the way, making room.

He takes deep breath, then yanks the seams at the very bottom of each pocket, flipping the material inside out. Sticking straight up from his jeans.

Eddie is all red now, flushed down to his neck. "What the..."

Steve tugs on the flipped out pocket seams, jolting Eddie closer. He lands on Steve's lips, colliding a bit roughly. For a second, they're too busy smiling to kiss properly. But Steve slides his hands up Eddie's chest, around his neck, scratches the tiny hairs on the back of Eddie's head, and that's it. That's all that it takes for them to get lost in the kiss.

Eddie's mouth opens, biting the center of Steve's bottom lip. Breathes out the warmest air as he lets go, returns to a softer approach. Steve licks over the spot, soothes the pulse that Eddie left behind.

"That was... different. " Eddie laughs. He swipes his tongue over Steve's cupids bow, traces an outline until Steve is laughing too.

"Bad different?" Steve asks.

"Not at all." Eddie shakes Steve by the shoulders like he’s nuts for asking such an outrageous question. "Besides, different is right up my alley, babe."

"I'm highly aware."

"Didn't realize I was such a bad influence on your freakier side."

"What can I say?" Steve shrugs, steals one of Eddie’s rings to twirl around his finger. "I'm very easily persuaded."

They head over to the couch, kissing haphazardly as they flop down. Eddie tugs and twists at the fabric of Steve’s shirt, stretching it out. Wrinkling it. Steve couldn’t care less if it gets ruined because Eddie will be the one ruining it.

Eddie sighs into the kiss. Not a sexy sigh either (which are obviously Steve’s favorite of the sighing variety). It sounds more shocked. Disbelief or something.

Steve angles his head away from the kiss to see that Eddie’s eyes are open, wandering all over Steve’s face. It’s pretty cute, seeing Eddie too busy just staring to even shut his eyes mid-kiss. Like his schedule is too jam-packed up with Gawking, has to multitask during their make out sessions now.

"Kinda can’t believe it." Eddie finally says, still staring.

"What?" Steve stares backs. Makes it a staring contest. Doesn't tell Eddie though cause he wants to win.

Eddie motions toward his pockets that are still turned inside out. "After one whole year, you still keep me on my toes with shit like that."

"I do?"

"Sure do. You're something else, babe.”

"I am?" Steve blinks.

Damnit, he lost the one-sided staring contest.

“Yup.” Eddie nods, transitions to chewing on a chunk of Steve’s hair like he always does. Sometimes, he’ll make mooing sounds. Especially after sex, when he’s at his goofiest. Most comfortable.

It’s fucking unreal how Steve has learned all of these quirks. How he waits for them, anticipates them. Every bit feels familiar to him now.

"You're unexpected in all the best ways, Harrington."

Steve tries not to gush at that compliment. It's not one he gets often.

Eddie stops chewing on Steve’s hair to kiss his cheek instead. The kiss is powdery-sweet, miles away from his usual eagerness. Still perfect somehow. Just like the weird stuff is somehow perfect too.

That's kind of who they are together. Weird and unexpected.

In all the best ways.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Carpe Noctem 22

Warnings: dark elements, noncon, age gap, gaslighting, manipulation, violence, blood, other dark elements. Proceed with caution. (short!reader)

Note: Please let me know what you think as it helps me a lot with ideas and I love interacting with you all.

Part of The Club AU

There’s a hiss of steam and a clank. Peter pulls away from the machine and stifles a yelp to a grunt. Instinctively, you go to him as he grips his hand and examines the patch reddening on his skin. Those type of burns are never nice.

“Run it under cold water,” you nudge his elbow softly and turn to crank on the tap, “ouch. You okay?”

“Yeah, fine,” he swallows tightly, “wasn’t paying attention.”

“Hold it under,” you guide his hand under the flow and he nods, glancing over his shoulder towards the seating area.

It’s not very busy, not for staying in. Most people take their coffee and go. There’s one woman who’s been there for at least an hour. She only ordered a tea before nestling into the corner and hunching over a book. At one point, you even thought she’d fallen asleep.

You tell Peter to wait and go to fetch the first aid kit mounted on the wall. You flip it open to find a disappointing array. Yellowed gauze and dried out alcohol swabs. This isn’t good and it can’t be up to code.

“Don’t move, okay?” You tell Peter and take the box with you down the hall.

Cole’s door is open as you find him furrowing his brow at the laptop screen. He looks up as you shake the tin chest as him. He sits back and greets you with his usual smile.

“What’s up?”

You cross the room and put the box down. You pop the lid again and show him the pathetic collection. His face pales and his expression draws tight. He slaps his forehead.

“Oh, shoot,” he turns his hand out helplessly, “I knew I missed some things–”

“It’s fine but we should consider bulking this up ASAP. It’s a code violation.”

“Wait, is someone hurt?” Cole frowns.

“Peter burned himself but I think he’s okay,” you explain, “he’ll just need to wrap it up.”

“Well, it’s a good thing he has you taking care of him. We’re all very lucky to have you,” Cole lets the tension drain from him, “what would we do without you?”

You chuckle. He asks that a lot. His gratitude can be a bit overwhelming. You don’t really know about running a business, least of all a cafe, but he puts a lot of faith in you. More than he should.

“You’d be okay,” you assure him. 

You still haven’t let on that you’re not exactly planning on staying forever. Once you submit an appeal to the daycare, everything will go back to normal. Most things.

“Thank you for taking care of Peter,” he says, “I’ll go right now and get some supplies,” he shuts the laptop and stands, “anything else we need?”

“No, I think we’re okay.”

“Oh, as well,” he snaps his fingers and points a fingergun to the ceiling, “earlier, you mentioned new recipes. Something seasonal. I think that’s a great idea but to be honest, I’m not much of a baker. More a taster, you know? We inherited the menu, we just go by the book.”

You nod as you close the kit up and leave it on the desk, backing away as Cole steps around the desk.

“Do you bake? Maybe you have some suggestions?”

“Me? Oh, I mean, yeah I’ve baked now and again but… I don’t know.”

“I can’t really afford a consultant right now so if you get any ideas,” he shrugs, “you seem like you're full of good ones.”

“Yeah, uh, we’ll see,” you say evasively.

“I’m sorry, not to put more stress on you. I know you have a life outside here. Not my fault I don’t,” he laughs at himself. You barely shift out of his way as he passes, brushing close as he grabs his fleece-lined flannel from the coat rack, “I assume you do, you don’t share much, do you?”

“Just life,” you sniff, “not much going on.”

He pulls his jacket on as he faces you again. He looks at you, almost as if he’s sizing you up, trying to see through you. It’s not lying if you just don’t tell him anything. No one needs to know about the mess that is your personal life.

“Well, I’ll ask ma. Maybe she has some ideas for new sweets,” he feels around in his pockets, his face twisting with confusion.

You peer around and see his wallet on his desk. You snatch it up and bring it to him. His eyes sparkle as he takes it from you.

“Ah, there you go again,” he grins, “thanks. Really, I’d be so lost without you.”

“You’re just fine,” you assure him, “I’ll go check on Peter.”

“Don’t forget to fill out a report. Technically, it’s a workplace injury.”

“Right,” you agree as you skirt out the door just ahead of him, “thanks, Cole.”

“No, thank you,” he claps your shoulder, a gesture that surprises you, as much for his strength as it’s suddenness. You flinch and shrug him off, “you’re holding this whole place together.”

You look back and give a tight-lipped smile. He beams at you and you don’t know what to do or say. You give a tiny wave back then turn down the hallway, rushing back towards the noise of running water. Peter grimaces as his hand trembles under the faucet.

“It’s my fault,” he shakes his head, “I got distracted.”

“It’ll be okay,” you assure him, “a lesson learned, right?”

“Excuse me,” the tiny voice startles you both.

You look over at the woman, the singular customer that afternoon. Her shoulders remain slouched as if to make up for her towering height, and her eyes are downcast even as she speaks to you. She puts her porcelain cup on the counter.

“This one’s chipped,” she slides it over and quickly retracts her hand.

“Oh, no,” Peter splashes you as he spins around, forgetting the pulsing burn in his hand, “did you cut yourself? Do you want a new one?”

She shakes her head vehemently, gripping the slender strap of her crocheted handbag. She stares at the floor. She can probably see the stains on the grout.

“It’s no problem, I’ll make sure you get a good cup–”

“I… gotta go,” she murmurs and briskly crosses to the door.

Peter sputters as disappointment paints his features. He pulls the cup close and runs his thumb over the chip in the brim. You near as you watch him. He likes her, you realise.

“Does she come in often?” You ask.

“What? I don’t know,” he shrugs and backs away from the counter. He takes the cup with him and drops it in the bin.

“Oh, you have no idea? You were just distracted by the wall, huh?”

“Please,” he hides his face from you. It’s too late, you saw the bloom of rosiness in his cheeks. “I don’t know her…”

“But you want to,” you tease.

He turns on you and hushes you, waving his hand wildly, “shhh, please, it’s stupid, okay… she’s… she’s pretty. That’s all.”

“Don’t worry, Pete, your secret’s safe with me.”

He chews his lip, “promise you won’t tell Ned.”

You pretend to turn a key in front of your lips and smile. It’s cute seeing him so bashful. It reminds you of when you were so in love. When you still believed that was a thing.

[penny-rabbit-and-summer-bear]

The 3 Times I Said I Like You, 

And The 1 Time I Didn’t

By Penny Rabbit & Summer Bear

Word Count : 2830

★ Homework Help ☆ 

This stupid, damn physics homework. I let out a heavy sigh and lay back in my seat, closing my eyes and feeling the sunlight. Listening to the cherry blossom trees rustle in the warm wind, while letting petals into the classroom through the open window. If I could just finish this one last question, I’d be set for the test without any worries. Heck, maybe I’d even go for a walk in the spring furnished campus before pulling an all nighter. 

That’s when I take a sneaky peak over at you. You look like you’re having it easy, humming to yourself and drawing a detailed caricature of our physics teacher on the side of your notebook. I curiously watch you sketch him for a while before my mind returns to physics. I open my mouth to speak, but hesitate. We’ve been desk mates for the entire semester and haven’t spoken a word to each other unless we were involved in some group activity or if our books accidentally went on the other person’s desk. 

I look at the teacher with pleading eyes, desperate for his time- but he seems to be busy and probably won’t take another student, since class ends in 5 minutes. It’s now or never. Just as you put the finishing touches onto his distasteful moustache, I blurt out- “Hey, do you get this question? It’s the last one on page 98, and I’ve spent, like, 30 minutes on it.” You swiftly turn your head in my direction, meeting my gaze. My stomach does a flip… I’ve never talked to you like this before. You express your surprise before quickly masking it with a reply.

“Well...um. Yeah, I can help you with that question.”

I cautiously show you my work(while scanning for any weird drawings I might have made), explaining what I did. You notice my visible confusion, and when I’m done, you start to talk while gesturing to my writing with your pencil. “Okay.. so, I get where you got this equation from, but since they are asking for the speed of sound, you need to use the temperature value to solve for that… And this over here is correct, so you don’t need to worry about that part.. Just watch for the number of harmonics so you can plug in those values.”

Ohhhhh. So that’s what I was supposed to do! I’m starting to understand where I went wrong when I watch you re-explain it just in case. Our seats are now facing each other, and we’ve been animatedly talking about the upcoming exam until I notice that the classroom has been emptied out. The teacher is collecting his things, motioning for us to exit the class. I quickly expressed my gratitude.

“Thanks for helping! You’re really smart for someone in our grade.”

You grin at me, and turn back to your desk. As you’re filing your books into your bag, I’m conscious of a warm feeling inside. My smile fades when I realize I’ve been smiling the whole time. I distractedly hurried out of the empty physics classroom, all while I kept reliving the moment in my head.

☆ Sakura Season ★

The spring breeze feels so nice against my skin. Especially after that stupid physics exam. Never in my life have I ever questioned my motivation to take that course, but I guess it worked out well cause I met you. I take long, tired strides on the sidewalk near campus. I don't think I’m gonna be able to stay awake any longer, until I see a blurry image of your silhouette under the cherry blossom tree near the fountain on campus. We haven’t spoken in a while, and it seems like you’re alone. So I take my chances and happily walk over towards you. 

You have your back turned towards me, so I tap on your shoulder to gather your attention. “Oh! Umm… hi.” you say. I think I may have scared you, oops. “Sorry if I frightened you, I didn’t mean to cause any trouble.” I reply to you. Your scared face is so adorable. ‘No… stop, don’t get distracted.’ I tell myself. But I just can’t help it!

I don't want our interaction to be cut short, so I ask you “Is it okay if I sit beside you? I’m quite tired, but I don’t have the energy to go home and rest,” “Of course!” I remember you saying in a very enthusiastic tone. Seems like I’m not the only one who's excited. You shuffle your body to the side so you would give enough space to sit. “So… what were you doing sitting all alone?” I ask you.

Now that I think about it, that may have been a stupid question to ask. I’ve always seen you sit alone, in your own world of imagination. You were never the type to go out of your way to talk and make friends, which is why I’ve grown such a child-like curiosity when it comes to learning more about you. “I’m just finishing up a drawing I’ve been working on for the past few weeks.” you reply. If I took more time to pay attention to my surroundings, I would’ve noticed the sketchbook in your lap with a black micro-pen in your hand. But how could I notice that when I’m too busy admiring your pretty face. I turn my head to look at your drawing, and I’m stunned. The artistic talent you need to draw such a masterpiece is unbelievable. It also looks like someone familiar… but I quickly stop getting too far ahead of myself. “It’s not the best drawing I’ve done, but it’s still a work in progress.” you say. 

If this isn’t your best, I wonder what your best looks like. I look at your face, but you turn away, probably in embarrassment. “I think it looks really nice. No… I know it looks really nice. I mean look it at! It just looks like something you would see in a museum” I tell you, because I can’t handle you self-deprecating your beautiful art. I look back at your face, and see your cute face flushed with embarrassment. I can’t help but laugh at your shyness, which in turn makes you laugh as well.

“Maybe once you’re done you can show it to me.” I ask you. You reply.

“Yeah… I’d like that.” 

★ Stay With Me ☆

It’s….. KARAOKE DANCE NIGHT! We make a bee-line towards the mall with ice cream bars in each of our hands. The night has only begun, and I look at your face with the corniest grin because I know it’s about to go down. As soon as the bars are finished, we zoom into the karaoke room and you slam 4 quarters into the coin slot while I do my 80s stretching routine, game faces on.  

Our opponents are in the other room, and those guys have been winning for consecutive days now. The screen blips before coming to life and the countdown to the song starts. We chant it as we face each other, positioned perfectly as our favourite band would be. The song is Stay with Me by Miki Matsubara, who happened to be your favourite artist. Don’t ask me how I knew that, it took a lot of detective skills on my part. 

“Three…two…one!”

*Stay With Me playing in the background*

As the music starts on cue, we dance to the beat. It’s a mix of Japanese city pop and a tune that's too familiar to our ears. It’s way too good to stop dancing. I’m dancing as best as I can, scanning the screen for mistakes on the other side while giving it my all to the microphone. Ha! Those sad eleven-year-old middle school jerks can go home drunk on Kool-Aid tonight! But as you move to the beat with the microphone in your hand, singing along to the song with a good sense of rhythm, I can’t help but feel like my heart is gonna burst and no one- not even you- would be able to save me. You, with… a good sense of humour and that disarming smile. 

It’s the craziest feeling… maybe too crazy. I mean.. It hasn’t even been a month since we became so close, right? Without a moment to process it, I trip on the cord of the mic and get ready to fall to my carpetty death until you come out of nowhere from your position in the song and hold me in your arms, close to your chest. I’m starting to feel that ‘hoodie fresh from the laundry’ is my favourite scent..

“Are you good?” 

We’re looking each other straight in the eyes, neither of us moving. I’ve never noticed how your eyes can look so uniquely concerned and intensely beautiful at the same time.. The music stops(or did it?). All sounds are blocked out from my head. I had barely made it out of a heart attack and here I am bombarded with the silliest thoughts. Unless it isn’t silly. I take a good look, because I might not get a chance to do so ever again. You suddenly break into a smile, as adorable as you can get.

“Pretty sure the kiddos won again.”

As you carefully ensure I'm alright, I quickly force myself to recover from my heart stutters and face you with a grin. 

“Come to my house later to practise this?”

“You bet.”

We're both smiling from ear to ear when the operator pokes her head in.

“Annnd.. the other team wins! Sorry about that, guys. We’re gonna hand the room over to our other players, so clear the room out in 30 seconds, okay?”

As I follow behind while holding onto your jacket hood, I'm smiling after you like a cheeseball, oblivious to my expressions.

Yeah..

I think I like you. 

☆ Only You ★

Even though we’ve hung out so many times, I still get butterflies when you visit my home. I still can’t believe we’ve gotten so close in just a few months, but I don’t regret it one bit. Whenever I’m with you, I forget about everything, just so I could be focused on you. Just you. It doesn’t help that you seem so oblivious to the hints I keep showing. Are you really that unaware of the feeling you give me? Before I could continue my train of thought, your mellifluous voice pulled me out of it. “Hey.. Are you okay? You looked as if you were zoning out or something.” I hear you say. I can’t believe you caught me in such a state. “NO” I accidentally say in a loud voice. I couldn’t risk you finding out about my feelings. “Sorry, uh would you like anything to drink? I have apple juice, umm as well as a fruit smoothie. Or I could make you coffee or tea if you want that instead?’ I'll tell you. You reply, “Water is fine, don’t overexert yourself, you seem tired”. 

I couldn’t help but get a bit flustered, but I nod my head and went to the kitchen to get you a glass of water. Where is it? I wondered. I can’t find that special mug that I bought just for you. It’s a sakura pink mug, which reminds me of all the times we sat under the sakura tree, taking our whole lunch away. It has two cute paw prints on its side, since I know you love animals a lot. Maybe one day we could get a small pet and let it join us for our spring-time walks. I searched around all the cupboards, until I saw it. There you are! I grab the mug and bring it to the table, which is where you coincidentally seem to be near. As I walk towards the table to get to the pitcher of water, I accidentally trip on the trimming that divides the kitchen from the living room. This caused me to drop the special mug, which ended up shattering on impact. “Oh no!” I can’t believe I messed up such a simple task. I quickly bent down to pick up the shattered pieces, but I felt your calloused fingertips grab my hand, preventing me from picking up the broken mug. 

“Don’t do that, I’ll help. You should go get a paper towel.” you said. I can’t help but fall deeper and deeper into this never-ending tunnel of love. I got up and grabbed a tissue, until I heard a little ‘ow’ coming from you. I look over and I see you holding your hand, which seems to be stained red. I questioned your well-being, “ Are you okay?” I ask with worry. I looked at your face, which gave you a first hand look of pain, but you somehow turned into a smile. “I’m okay, though I think I need a bandaid” you reply. The blood from your hand seemed to get more red as I stared at you. I need the first aid kit. I swiftly stood up and went to the kitchen to get the first aid kit. 

Once I got it, I quickly ran over to you, and sat down in front of you. The paper towel you asked me to bring was now being used to hopefully prevent any more bleeding, though I don’t think it's much of a good job since it's almost fully stained red. I took some of the gauze pads and replaced the soiled paper towel. “I’m sorry if it hurts, but I have no choice but to stop you from bleeding” I told you while I focused on cleaning your wound. I couldn’t help but notice the way you stared at me while I was putting on a new sterile gauze of your now-clean wound. A look that radiated admiration, and an appreciation for what I’m doing. If I wasn’t so focused on wrapping your hand with the bigger bandages that were in the first aid kit, I would’ve been able to hear what you mumbled. “Did you say something?” I questioned you. By now, I finished wrapping your arm with the bandages, but I have yet to let go of your hand. I don’t want to. 

“I said that I liked you” you repeat yourself. What? I stare at you in confusion. I think I need to get my ears checked at the doctor’s office, because there is now way you said- “Hello??” you waved your hand in front of my dazed eyes. I blinked my eyes out of confusion, “Huh?” I replied. “I said that I liked you. I’ve actually liked you for a while now, I think it started when you complimented my drawing. I don’t know if you realised then, but that was supposed to be a drawing of you. I haven’t shown it to you yet, but if you want to see it you could always come over to my home and I’ll show it.” You stare at me with expectant eyes, probably because I haven't uttered a word since you confessed to me. 

“Throughout my life, I’ve always been someone of little to no importance, like being second place in a competition. I’ve always wanted to be the first in someone's life, maybe even their heart, and I would have never thought that someone would be you. I know at the beginning I may have been a bit closed-off and shy, but I didn’t mean for it to come off that way. I was just scared that maybe I was just a replacement for someone that left your life, but after being friends with you, I realised I was completely wrong. You aren’t like that. You never were, and I’m so grateful that you sucked at physics, ‘cause if you didn’t, I don’t think we would’ve been having this conversation. We would’ve been complete strangers for all I know. I know we have yet to experience a lot of our lives, but I really want to go through them with you, if you want to as well.”

The vulnerability and truth in your words when you told me all of this made me tear up. Never in my whole life would I have thought that I made someone feel this way. Someone who made me feel the same way. I thought this would've been too fast for anything to form, and that the little crush I had on you from the beginning would've disappeared into the sounds of our laughter, but it only made it stronger, which I’m happy it did. I’m still in a state of shock, but I didn’t want to leave you without confirming my feelings. 

“What do you say?” you eagerly asked. The next few words that came out were ones that did not come from my brain, but instead came from the endless tunnel of love and fondness I had accumulated since the beginning of our connection. 

“I’d like that.” 

AN -:

Hi everyone! This is the first every short story we made, so it's not the most perfect but we really did put a lot of passion into writing it. Hopefully it is as cute and funny to you guys as we though it was to us. We did try and make the two characters involved as neutral as possible, with as little specific descriptors as possible.

Until then, signing off.

Penny Rabbit & Summer Bear

[glazesunflower]

S/O who's sick but wants to go to work

Characters: Ayaka, Yae Miko and Keqing x GN!Reader.

Warnings: Mentions of sickness. Other than that, it's plain fluff.

Notes: The request, “ Hello-could I request a gn reader who’s sick but wants to get out to work but Ayaka,Yae Miko and Keqing keeps them in bed and takes care of them?”

“Here, I brought you some soup.” Ayaka says, sitting on the side of your bed. “I wanted to make it myself but, truthfully, I’m afraid it would’ve turned out to be less than acceptable, so I had Thoma help me with the recipe.”

“Thank you, my love.” You say. Your whole body burns, your mind feels foggy. “Oh, what time is it?”

“It’s ten in the morning, dear.” She tilts her head, a worried expression on her face. “Why do you ask?”

You sit up, your limbs aching to the movement. “I’m— Cough. I’m late to work. If I rush, maybe I can still—“

“Work?” Ayaka echoes, a hint of surprise in her voice. “My heart, you’re sick. You should lie down and rest for now. I’ve already had a messenger sent to explain that you will not be attending today, it’s okay.”

You shake your head, feeling dizzy. “Even still— Cough. What about your work? Shouldn’t you be at a meeting right now?”

Ayaka helps you lie on the bed again, her hands gentle as she guides your head on the pillow. You let out a soft sigh in relief.

“Please, don’t concern yourself with such matters, it’s all taken care of. I’ve cleared my schedule to care for you for the day.” She draws a soft smile, reassuring you. “You’re my first and most important priority. Now rest, my dear. I’ll stay here by your side.”

She leans to you, and you can barely register her fingers slowly caressing your hair before you feel the world around you grow hazy, your eyelids feeling surprisingly heavy. Ayaka keeps playing with your hair, and you hear a soft lullaby echoing in your ears as you slowly drift off to sleep.

The alarm goes off in the morning, but you don’t have enough time to register the sound before you feel the weight on the bed shifting.

“Ugh, turn that devilish thing off, will you?” Miko groans, her voice husky from sleep.

“I’m sorry— Cough.” You say. Did your throat burn like this last night? You feel dizzy. “We have to get to— Cough, cough. To get to work.”

Miko eyes you, studying your face for a short second before her brain reaches a conclusion. “Call it a hunch, my dear, but something tells me you’re not exactly in quite the shape to go to work today, hm?”

You shake your head and you regret it as soon as you do, the edges of the world blurring around you. “No, no. There’s— Cough. There’s important things that need to be done, I can’t not go.”

“Ever the diligent one.” Miko sighs, stretching her arms above her head gracefully. “Say, isn’t this a wonderful opportunity to unbend the spirit and allow your body to recover nicely? I’ll make sure to keep you company, of course.”

“You?” You tilt your head, confused. Your mind feels foggy. “You’re not sick, Miko.”

“Ah, don’t bore me with such formalities. I’ll remain by your side and tend to you.” She says, drawing a sly smile. There’s the familiar mischievous glint behind her lilac eyes when she leans closer to you. “Show some gratitude, no mortal has ever had the Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine nurse them back to health and has lived to tell the tale.”

“I’m not sure I like my odds, then.” You smile, feeling your cheeks warm. Is it because you’re feeling sick, or something else?

“Oh, shush, you.” Miko says, slapping your arm, but it doesn’t hurt. “Now, scooch. I was quite comfortable lying on your chest before that devilish alarm of yours started blowing up.”

You move, allowing her to rest on your chest again, breathing in slowly. Miko’s fluffy pink hair tickles your nose.

“Are we really not going to work today?” You ask quietly, double-checking the situation. You can’t say you felt regretful, with Miko comfortably lying on you.

“My dearest shrine maidens will be there, won’t they? They’re perfectly capable of handling the Shrine for a single day, I should hope.” Miko nuzzles your neck, her words sounding muffled by your skin. “Now rest, dear. You’ll be feeling better soon enough.”

“I’m leaving for work now.” Keqing announces early in the morning, tying her hair up. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do while I’m gone, alright?”

“Wait for me, I’m— Cough. I’m going to the Pavilion with you.” You say, each word sending waves of heat and pain down your throat.

Keqing eyes you, her lilac eyes studying your posture, narrowed. You’re standing in the hallway, your body resting on the doorframe.

“You are, huh?” She crosses her arms above her chest, looking at you up and down. “You can’t even stand right, how are you going to make it to the Pavilion in the first place?”

“You’ll be there with me.” You say hesitantly, your fingers shaking.

Keqing shakes her head, locks of lilac hair framing her features. “I know what we said, In sickness and in health, but that doesn’t mean I’ll help you do something stupid and reckless.”

“I’m fine, I— Cough. I can still go to work.” You insist, your body shuddering.

“You’re sick. That’s why there are sick days, you’re allowed to miss work if you’re not feeling well.” Keqing walks up to you, places the back of her hand on your forehead. You feel her skin slightly cooler to your touch, and you feel a momentary relief. “Go to bed, alright? I’ll try to come home early today.”

You let out a long sigh, defeated. “You promise?”

“I promise.” Keqing reaches up, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead, staying there a second longer than needed. You feel your chest full of warmth, this time not because you’re sick. Keqing’s voice sounds gentle to your ears, a tucked in affection you’ve learned to recognize. “Now get some rest, you big baby. I’ll be here before you notice.”

If you enjoyed this, please consider liking or reblogging it <3!

You can check more of my writing on (this link!). Thank you!

[father-time-and-baby-new-year]

better luck next time

a/n: bullying, manipulative behavior, noncon touching/groping, power dynamic(s), possessive/obsessive behavior, dark content, reader is genuinely distressed

pairing: bully! eren x fem!reader ft armeeen

The blond merely thins his lips, and you wonder why the silence feels so heavy in the air. You had just spilled your heart out (not all, some things you needed to keep to yourself) and all you're met with is a pregnant pause.

Armin clears his throat, eyes not meeting yours, "Thank you for sharing this with me. I know this must be difficult and we will do our best to...see that you get the help you need."

There's another awkward silence. You part your lips but don't say anything, and your body sticks to the leathery chair. The student council's president's office is nice, with all dark wood paneling and large windows. The kind of place you had no business in being.

You can't help your leg from bouncing like crazy, a nervous tic you formed ever since you were very young.

He clears his throat again, "We commend your bravery but please beware that serious allegations require a serious and heavy investigation."

"Wait, I" you interrupt a second time, bunching up your skirt in your fist in a frazzled gesture, "I don't need anything like an investigation."

You look downwards, averting the ocean of his eyes.

"What you're asking for," Another sigh, silence in the room except for the squeak of chairs and incessant tapping of your foot "...Is something that we don't oversee."

Meekly you respond, "I don't think I'm asking for a lot. I just...don't want to be around him."

"I don't have the authority to impose tha-"

"No," You cried out desperately, "You do. You do. I'm not asking for anything--he can have everything. His spot on the team, scholarships, whatever-I don't care!"

The voice crack at the end of your sentence doesn't go unnoticed and the blond with his impenetrable composed demeanor merely looks at you with the slightest of pity in his eyes.

"I'll see what I can do."

Your head snaps forward and words of gratitude rush out of your mouth, so distracted you don't hear the doors open.

"Damn Armin, did I leave my water bottle here again-?"

The world stands still. Too shocked to turn around, you know that voice from anywhere. Could pick it apart from the loudest crowd you've ever known.

No time for you to pray that he won't see you. But maybe he has some supernatural sense because you can practically hear the smirk in his voice when he addresses the blond: "Woah Armin, didn't think you knew my favorite girl."

This time you turn around.

Eren in all of his glory, wet dark hair clinging to his forehead, clad in a t-shirt that showed off his muscles, and a pair of school shorts that sat low on his carved hips. He must have come up straight from practice.

"You can't just come here whenever you want Eren-" The blond sounds more exasperated than stern.

"Yeah, yeah, sorry." He says dismissively, not sounding particularly sorry. He paces around the office like it's a second home like it's a space he's used to infiltrating and having no respect for.

You're not hyperventilating. No, you're still. Like a body of water. Like an undisturbed river.

An arm is thrown over your shoulder. He smells soapy, he must have just had a shower. A shower to wipe all the impurities of the day you muse.

"Didn't know y'two were friends." There's no real threat to his words but they're spoken carefully as if warning the other to tread lightly. Armin glares at the green-eyed boy, "Don't draw conclusions from nothing. Miss [] merely used the proper channels to address a matter to the council."

Your heartbeat thrums in your chest like a caged songbird begging to be let free. You stand up from your seat so fast it would have sent you in a dizzying spell if not for the iron-clad grip on your wrist holding you down. He's half crouching, but in a second, like it's second nature, manhandles your body until you sit on his lap, thighs splayed open.

Maybe he doesn't deserve the blame when you just let him like your body was just following routine. Like it's done this before.

"Oh? What was the matter?" A hand rubs your thigh, fingers tracing out circles underneath your skirt to access the soft flesh underneath.

The blond averts his eyes, "That c-conduct is not appropriate."

The dark-haired boy rolls his eyes, "Not what I asked." He pinches the fat of your thigh, and you're too scared to even whimper, "She likes this." He reminds you of a shark in the way he bares his teeth, but he's too cunning to be a shark.

"We keep our discussions with the student body confidential." He could have sounded so assertive if not for the way his voice waned.

Eren leans further into the leather chair, and you're mortified. Armin's face is bright red and you hope he can't see your panties from this angle.

"Oh is that so?" Eren hums, green eyes following the minute hand of the clock.

"Well if it's confidential..." Hands cup your breasts and you hold in your breath, and soon nimble hands begin unbuttoning your blouse, "Guess what's said here can't really leave this room, right?"

The blond doesn't look away, as if transfixed by the color and lace of your bra, the skin spilling over. But he finds himself within a moment's notice: "Eren...leave."

A pause.

"And take her with you."

[britishassistant]

What happens if a new villain comes to town and starts tearing shit up? Like a new rival shows up, falls in love with yuu, and kidnaps them before enacting a huge take over the city scheme, will the NRC and RSA finally come together for the same goal? Or would it lead to chaotic in-fighting in their individual attempts to rescue the reporter and save the city/stop this jerk face from showing them up only for yuu to break out just so they can knock them all upside the head?

Thank you for the ask, dear anon!

“It’s so simple, love.” The villain coos, one hand cupping Yuu’s chin gently to tilt their face up, “Just accept my proposal, and we won’t need to have any nasty accidents where you and the tarmac down there have a...terminal disagreement.”

Yuu glances down at the drop from where they’ve been “tied” to the top of the skyscraper by the metal beams that the supervillain bent around their body like they were rubber. They think they can see a flock of pigeons flapping by below them. “That’s your idea of a threat? Really? Because I’ve heard worse over breakfast. Sorry, but I really don’t think we have the right chemistry to accept marriage to the likes of you.”

The villain pouts, leaning against the tip of the building as if they were a pair of people chatting on the streets far below, and not one hapless captive tied to an antenna and their captor floating with nary a second thought in midair. “Oh c’mon now love. Don’t make this more difficult than it has to be—you know that I could do far better with your Daddy’s little league than any of those second-rate bozos crowding around you.”

The reporter’s gaze sharpens, the corner of their mouth curling up in a snarl. “Don’t. Refer to them. Like that. They’re each seven times the supervillain you are, at least. Besides, I’d rather be turned into pancake mix on the pavement than do anything that could advance that man’s little projects.”

The villain tuts, coiffed hair ruffled by the breeze as he leans in far closer than Yuu is comfortable with. “Don’t play hard to get, love. So you’ve got Daddy issues, who doesn’t? It’s no reason to get in the way of progress. Maybe you’ll change your mind if I show you exactly what I can offer...”

Yuu recoils as the villain’s tongue forces its way into their mouth when their lips collide with all the force of a car crash, an invasive writhing thing that makes them gag at how far it pushes in as the villain hums greedily at their taste.

And one that the reporter swiftly brings their teeth down on.

Hard.

“FUCK! Ugh—you foul little bitch!!”

The backhand jars the reporter’s skull even as they brace for it, cutting the inside of their mouth and leaving them worried that if they try spitting out the blood gathering there, they’ll lose a tooth along with it.

The villain huffs, one hand carding through his ruffled hair. His tongue is already whole and unblemished, the last indents of their teeth healing as the reporter watches. “I didn’t want to do this, you know. I would’ve gladly taken you to the altar, and had you screaming in our wedding bed. I could’ve made you happy, if you’d just do what you’re told.”

Yuu sneers. “Frankly, I can’t imagine anything more boring.”

They take cold comfort in the fury that burns in the supervillain’s eyes at that.

“Fine. Fine.” The villain floats away, his eyes glowing that same bright red that melted through the wall to Yuu’s bedroom when they were first taken. “I was prepared to do this the nice way. I wanted to do this the nice way. But if you’re going to be such a little bitch about it, then I can always rely on the old fashioned method of succession.”

The laser beams swipe through the block of abandoned offices four stories below where the reporter is tied up.

The top of the building wavers, then begins to crumble forwards.

The villain says something else, probably something mocking and challenging them to get out of this mess because that’s the kind of cliche line that’s always used here, but Yuu can’t hear him over the whistle of the wind in their ears and the scream torn from their throat as they plummet.

They try frantically tug their arms free as their legs are pulled upwards by gravity, try their damndest to squirm free, but it’s no use, they’re not The Prefect right now, don’t even have the fedora on them, they’re Yuu, just Yuu, just helpless reporter Yuu, who can’t break steel beams with their pathetic powerless normal person strength, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, they’re going to die, oh Great Seven, they’re going to die—!

“KING'S ROAR!!!”

There’s a discombobulating moment of freefall as the metal and concrete around them disintegrates into sand.

Then a strong, wiry arm loops around their waist and they’re pinned to a carpet as their rapid descent gradually slows to a stop in midair.

“Need a lift?” They can’t see Snake Charmer’s eyebrows through the mask, but they get the feeling one of them is raised in a wry fashion as he smirks at them.

The reporter lets out a hysterical, shaky laugh that only narrowly escapes becoming a sob, trembling hands seizing onto the two supervillains like they’re lifelines. “Wh-what took y-you so long? Did you ge-get held up in traffic?”

King grumbles, flicking their temple gently as Water Boy laughs gleefully from where he’s steering the carpet. “You could show a little more gratitude, herbivore. Do you know how hard it was to evade all the goody-two-shoes on the way here to save your ass?”

Yuu’s about to reply, when they catch a movement above them out of the corner of their eye.

“INCOMING!!”

Water Boy jerks the flying carpet to the side just in time for the villain to plunge past them fist-first, close enough to see his teeth bared in a furious snarl.

“DRIVE!!” Snake Charmer screams at his lieutenant above the rushing wind as the villain rises back up to try his luck again. Water Boy presses the corners of the carpet forwards and they go into a rollercoaster dive that makes the reporter’s stomach roil in protest.

King unleashes his powers on the two buildings behind them, disintegrating the foundations in hopes that the tonnes of concrete and rebar would be enough to slow the flying brick chasing them. The villain just bursts through the obstacles with nary a broken sweat, and speeds up to the point where Water Boy has to turn the carpet upside down so they don’t get knocked out of the sky.

“Where the fuck is that computer junkie?!?” King yells at Snake Charmer as they draw dangerously close to the road below. “He was supposed to be here hours ago!!”

“How am I supposed to know?!” They can hear Snake Charmer’s heartbeat hammer in his chest from where he’s pinning them to the vehicle in the absence of a seatbelt. “It was the conman who was meant to give him the si—”

Yuu can barely scream a warning in time as the villain looms behind Leona’s head, eyes glowing red and ready.

A rush of flying metal harpies collide with the bastard’s face, effectively pinning him in midair as he struggles to destroy the thousands-strong swarm that obstructs his path to them.

“OPEN FIRE!!” Comes Hermes’ high-pitched cry as a blue beam shoots past them at the center of the robotic maelstrom.

A pair of red lasers rocket out to meet it, almost seeming as though it could push Ortho’s assault back—!

A white-hot streak of lightening descends from the formerly clear sky to where the villain was pinned, disrupting the red eye lasers and allowing Hermes’ beam to make contact.

There’s a hideous scream and the stench of burnt meat.

“We’re coming in too fast!!” Water Boy yells, tugging on the carpet’s tassels until they’re almost vertical. “Ja—I, I don’t know if we’ll slow down in time!!”

Yuu barely hears the curses the other two occupants spit, lunging to try and cover as much of them as they can with their body. Even if they crash, if Yuu can just absorb most of the shock of the landing—!

Small pinpricks of pain latch onto their scalp, their pajamas, the carpet and supervillains beneath them, hundreds of small beating appendages smacking them all in the face as the carpet’s rapid descent slows incrementally.

“Oh boys~?”

Four sets of strong hands seize the front of the carpet, their owners grunting as they attempt to force the carpet’s stop through sheer force. Of course, the continued existence of Newton’s Third Law combined with the reporter’s precarious shielding position means that though the carpet experiences sudden stop, Yuu keeps going at the same high speed that will ensure serious injury once they hit the tarmac.

Or it would do, if they didn’t collide with a solid chest and waiting pair of arms first.

The reporter finds themselves cradled in a nearly crushing grip, their catcher muttering “child of man, child of man,” into the top of their head and a warm thumb swipes over the rapidly darkening bruise on their cheek. The wind picks up around them alarmingly, whipping into a gale.

“Hey, hey, it’s okay, I’m okay.” Yuu reaches up to pat Tsunotaro’s head soothingly. “See? Just a few scrapes and a little scare. Give me an ice pack and a shower and I’ll be right as rain.”

Tsunotaro doesn’t look very convinced, but at least the wind drops to more of a strong breeze.

“Oi, let ‘em down, you dumb lizard.” King growls behind the reporter, the rings on his tail clattering as it swishes irritably. “We did all the work of saving them, you don’t get to take the rewards.”

Tsunotaro clutches them closer, getting that stubborn look in his eyes that makes Yuu want to groan in exasperation. “No.”

“Why you—!”

“Now, now children, the world works in mysterious ways.” Batman beams. “I’ve always found destiny draws those it finds most suitable together.”

The reporter rolls their eyes as King snarls in response to that remark and Snake Charmer mutters, “I didn’t know ‘destiny’ was what you called interfering old fools.”

“What was that?”

“Nothing.” Snake Charmer climbs off the carpet and straightens his headscarf. “What’s next?”

There’s a crash as the mass of robots pinning the singed villain about three blocks down the street begins to shift, however unwillingly.

“‘Kay, the ‘save the princess’ team barely cleared the parameters for their part of the mission.” Charon’s floating tablet drifts forward, the sounds of frantic tapping on a keyboard almost drowning out his voice. “Now it’s time for the ‘aggro’ and ‘debuff’ teams to move in, Tsuntaro-sshi, Royal-sshi.”

“Understood. I’ll leave the coordinating of the others to you, Charon.” Royal Flush looks up and raises an unimpressed eyebrow at the tall fae. “Well? Are you coming?”

Yuu could almost swear they hear a small grumble as Tsunotaro finally lets them down out of his grasp. He runs his thumb over their injured cheek one last time. “Sebek, Silver. Defend the reporter as you would me.”

“Yes, Tsunotaro-sama!” The two of them chorus.

Royal Flush shakes his head, then reaches out and squeezes Yuu’s hand once. “If anything happens, Three of Clovers and Howl-san will get you somewhere safe. But this shouldn’t take long.”

“Oi, don’t presume to give orders to my minion, Flush.” King growls, inserting himself bodily between the two of them. His mouth curls up in a smirk as he places a proprietary hand on top of their head. “Besides, I’ll be here, won’t I?”

Royal Flush and Tsunotaro narrow their eyes at him, but their attention is claimed by the sound of metal crashing down the street as the villain shrugs off the rubble, the burns on his arms and face healing rapidly as they watch. His eyes flicker over their motley group, before settling on Yuu with laser-precision.

It’s only the arrow that flies into his shoulder, combined with a second lightening bolt striking him from the blue that keeps that metaphor from becoming literal.

Yuu chokes a little at the pressure on their pajama shirt collar as they’re dragged out of the line of fire. From where they’re crouched behind a car, they can see Tsunotaro and Hermes throwing almost everything he’s got as the bastard, while Royal tries to close the distance without ending up attacked himself. They also catch a glimpse of who they think is Leviathan silently gliding closer through the alleys on the far side of the street.

But the villain just won’t stop getting back up. Despite the fact that anyone sane would’ve given up the moment the green flames were broken out, he keeps coming, no matter how many times he gets thrown back.

And he’s clearly getting closer to the reporter he so desperately wants to kill.

“Now what?” Yuu asks, barely able to hear themselves think over the worried growl rumbling from Jack’s chest.

Charon’s muttering to himself as more of his robots fly by overhead. “Need to pin down the rate of regen, if we can get that and surpass it so the ‘debuff’ team can do their thing before the second wave gets here, but what is it?”

The reporter blinks. Well, taking into account the insult, and the backhand...

“He was able to heal his tongue about...four, maybe five seconds after I’d bitten through it? That’s only a rough estimate though, it may’ve been shorter.” They murmur.

The area around them goes very quiet.

“B-bitten through...?” Water Boy asks, hand coming up to his own mouth with a wince.

Yuu scowls. “That creep put it in my mouth when I did not ask him to. Ugh, I would’ve gone for his balls too, but the metal didn’t let me lift my legs that far.”

They huff for a moment at the unfairness of it. Then, “King, stop grinning at me like that.”

“Like what herbivore?” His tone is the picture of innocence, even if the way he’s eying them is most decidedly not.

Snake Charmer ‘accidentally’ kicks him in the shin as the sound of frantic typing erupts from the tablet again. “Setting the Erinyes to follow up on Ortho’s and Tsunotaro-sshi’s attacks within a three point five second time frame...fwe he he he, let’s see how that mob likes this!”

With the clack of what sounds like an enter key, the robots above them begin divebombing the villain in sequence, deliberately targeting the parts of him injured by Tsunotaro and Hermes’ blows.

One of them sacrifices itself in a kamikaze dive that leaves a bleeding scratch on his arm.

The villain roars, the force of his fury almost knocking them over even with how far away their little group is crouched, turning the lasers on every robot within his line of sight.

Of course, this means he stops paying attention to the three supervillains who have been steadily making their way towards him.

“FAIREST ONE OF ALL!”

“IT’S A DEAL!”

“OFF WITH YOUR HEAD!”

The powers hit the villain one after another, his lasers sputtering out with a pained scream. The scratch on his arm doesn’t start healing. Neither does the gash he gets across his face when Poison Queen roundhouse kicks him away with those stilettos of his.

“Was that it?” Leviathan says, his careless facade somewhat ruined by the fact that he wobbles as he begins to levitate. “I must confess I don’t understand what all the tr-trouble was.”

A low whistle by their ear makes Yuu jump. “The bosses can be scary when they wanna be. Remind me never to piss off those three at once.”

The reporter look up to see Ace and Floyd standing behind them. “Ace, wha—where have you been?!”

Floyd giggles and Ace shoots them an evil grin as they chorus, “Sending out party invites~”

Yuu blinks and tries to puzzle out this cryptic phrase, but their attention is swiftly drawn back to the scene of the battle at the sound of manic, unhinged laughter.

“You think you’ve won? You think something like this will stop me?!” The villain cackles, eyes wild and beginning to grow red again despite the way his body tenses and the collar around his neck starts to buckle. “You think that second-rate half-hearted hacks like you can stop someone like me?!? I am your superior!! You all will bend the knee once I snap that ungrateful little bitch’s neck and take my rightful place as head of the League!!! I’ll decimate every last one of those pathetic, moronic heroes who pollute this city like a fungus!! And then, oh , and then I’ll make every last one of you who thought they could get away with this pitiable attempt to stop me—”

“Us? Here to stop you?” Poison Queen tilts his head. “Don’t be ridiculous. We’re supervillains.”

“Stopping the likes of you.” Leviathan proclaims triumphantly, “Is their job.”

The villain stops.

The villain turns.

Over half the top heroes of the Royal Sword Association lead here by the minions meet his gaze.

“Hello.” Niko Niko Neko says with a wide grin.

Yuu isn’t close enough to hear if the villain whimpers, but they almost wish they were.

Almost.

[atlasshrugd]

I understand that buffy was very cruel to spike in season 6 when he was trying to do good, making him revert back to meeting her where she was (in the dark) because it was easier to reach her there. But I don’t think we should conflate this with feeling like Spike was the victim here.

A lot of fans have an issue with how Buffy treated Spike and talk about how sorry they were for Spike, which I’m not disregarding. But I do have an issue with people regarding Spike as the victim in their relationship.

You have to understand what Buffy was dealing with at the time. She was dealing with a deep depression of not wanting to be alive, being brought back from heaven against her will. She wasn’t rational and would do anything to feel something again. Spike knew this and took advantage of her confusion and weakness at this time because he knew that deep down she wanted him too. He knew she just wanted to feel something from the start. In OMWF, she sings “I just want to feel” before they kiss. It’s not like she didn’t make her reasons for doing it clear. Spike knew this, yet grows disillusioned with this reality when he realises that those feelings of desperation and loneliness cannot evolve into love and need for him. He loves her, but she can’t love him. She tells him this many times, but he keeps insisting that no, it’s deeper than that, you are just lying to yourself. Ultimately, this causes Buffy to lash out at him because he is everything she hates, yet she can’t deny her need for him (which is, her need to feel). Spike keeps conflating that need for love, and grows so frustrated at her unrequited feelings that he is pushed to cruelty and violence.

There is no denying that Spike wants to be good for Buffy, but that desire is like a pipe dream. He tries to do good, be kind, and has genuine tenderness towards her. But that kindness can quickly twist into resentment (one, because soulless vampires can’t feel pure love), because Buffy is turning him into the very thing he hates. Something against his nature. His unnatural feelings for the slayer alone torture him, but to have those feelings constantly denied by her tears him up more, because if he is giving all of himself to her, he might as well have all of her in return. Instead, he gets the shameful part of her. For a while, he takes what he can get, but eventually being regarded as the fractured, shameful part of Buffy’s psyche that she can only half-indulge in takes a toll on him, and he starts to question why he is doing it all in the first place.

People also tend to forget that a vampire without a soul IS pretty much a demon with the past-human characteristics. Soulless things cannot feel the whole range of human emotions, like guilt, remorse, empathy, or love. They can, perhaps, feel shadows of those things. Spike is the most human of all the vampires. He does feel guilt and remorse and love. But those feelings, while to him so poignant, are only remnants of true emotions. And if he feels the intensity of them, it is usually for a self-serving reason. That does not mean he can’t do good and selfless things, because he occasionally does. But his love for Buffy is selfish in nature. He sees her as unconquerable, and if she loves him back, then she will be conquered. They will both be conquered by each other, the very mirror of what they both hate.

He does good things and helps her in fights to win Buffy’s favour. He helps the scoobies for her. But people tend to forget that the only reason Spike was a good guy in season 5 and 6 was because he had the chip in his head. He was forced to ally with Buffy and the scoobies and kill demons. That doesn’t make him a good guy. Like Buffy said, he’s like a serial killer in prison. And in s6, when he thought the chip had stopped working, he immediately goes and finds an innocent girl to bite. This obviously proves that he hasn’t changed. He just wasn’t enabled. How did he expect Buffy to love him when he would still kill innocents? That goes against everything she exists for. And when he finds out he can only hurt Buffy, he doesn’t hesitate to hurt her, until she turns it into sex.

So yes, while I do feel sorry for Spike at times, in no way is he a victim and in no way Buffy is the abuser. They both abuse each other, yes, because it is a codependent toxic relationship, but Spike without a soul is still inherently evil. How can you expect Buffy to treat him nicely when he is constantly taking advantage of her weakened state, drawing her into the shadows, and claiming that she feels things she doesn’t feel? She knows what a soulless vampire is, because of Angelus. She is disgusted with herself. She doesn’t believe Spike’s feelings because she knows that soulless vampires can’t love like that. She knows he is using her just as she is using him. She knows that he would be off biting innocents if he didn’t have the chip. How is that something she can love? When he shows great loyalty, like withstanding Glory’s torture, she acknowledges it with gratitude. He can be good. But she can’t trust in that humanity all the time. He is a wild card. He does good things as much as he does evil things. She can’t trust him enough to love him, as she says in seeing red.

There are a few times when Buffy went completely overboard in her mistreatment of Spike, which she mentions briefly in conversations with dead people. I’m not denying that and I’m not saying he deserves it. There was also that time when Buffy was invisible and she basically coerced him to have sex with her, even when Spike was telling her to leave because “If I can’t have all of you...” This is Buffy being selfish and crossing the line. There are things she’s said to him that are completely uncalled for, such as ‘you’re not a man, you’re a thing. An evil, disgusting thing.’ In that moment when she was beating Spike up, she was beating herself up. She knew she came back wrong and wasn’t even fully human anymore. She was abusing herself by abusing Spike, because he is the unclaimed part of her she doesn’t want to accept.

Anyway, this spiralled out of control, but I just wanted to get my thoughts out. The bottom line is Spike is not the victim in their relationship. They are both victims and have both abused. Spike sympathisers often villainize Buffy in their ‘poor spike!’ narrative, but it’s not as simple as that. Soulless Spike did not deserve to be loved. Buffy was wrong a lot, and she also had her reasons. Spike loved Buffy, but couldn’t love her in the way she needed and deserved.

However, a lot of their relationship fluctuations happened because of the different writers. Some episodes, their relationship seemed to mellow and grow, being based on understanding and care. Other episodes, Buffy would revert to being mean and in denial and Spike would revert to being vindictive and blaming Buffy. I think if they had steady writers who understood both Spike and Buffy’s journeys, then their relationship would have been more consistent and less messy.

[the-archangel]

V’s Christmas Presents

[Notes:  I’m sorry (not sorry) but I unashamedly love this piece of festive fluff and couldn’t wait to share it with you. My only regret is that I’m rubbish at drawing and unable to create the photos described in the detail they have in my brain, I’ve tried through words but it’s not quite the same. The photo’s came first, I wrote the story to make sense of them, I hope you enjoy it.]

Christmas isn’t a big thing in NC. Outside, in the NUSA proper, folks might decorate their homes with lights or gather the family for a big feast, but Night City has enough garish lights, and over-indulgence – in all things – isn’t saved for one day. There are a few religious types who still honour the day in their own way, but generally it was an ordinary day, though you might invite friends around for a drink, or give the kids a few extra eddies.

Johnny Silverhand was sat with his boots up on the desk in V’s old apartment angrily bouncing a rubber ball from the floor to the bathroom wall and back again. He’d seen enough of Christmas to know it for the Corpo, money-grabbing fuckery that it was, but this year he was going to have to do something nice for it and that was making him mad.

Kerry Eurodyne had also experienced Christmas outside of NC, and knew it for the fluffy, twinkly, joyful time that it was and couldn’t wait to introduce V to the whole idea. For the last couple of years his input had been too sick for any festivities, firstly as the relic messed with his brain, then as he was recovering, so this year it was going to be special.

V couldn’t remember much about his childhood, or of anything much before the relic nearly took over his brain just over 3 years ago, but suspected Christmas hadn’t been a big thing. He’d read about it of course, seen pictures, but if Kerry was into it then he’d give it a go – like most things.

-

Gratitude didn’t come easy to Johnny, saying ‘thanks’ without sounding sarcastic was a trick that he rarely pulled off, but this year he had something to be thankful for. V’s tenacity and Kerry’s eddies had literally brought him back from the dead, and for that, goddamn, he was grateful. He wanted to get them something, something that showed them how he felt, but without him ever having to say the words (cuz even though he felt it, they would still stick in his throat), but what do you get the NC power couple who have everything? Between them, they had more power, eddies and influence than pretty much anyone in town, a fruit basket wasn’t going to cut it.

He had the beginnings of an idea, but no clue how to pull it off. He needed help; this is why he’s sat at V’s old laptop cursing and drinking tequila. Johnny was just ancient enough to remember the old days, when the internet was actually useful for buying stuff and finding people who did shit, but this NC intranet crap was grinding his gears and taking him around in circles. He started messing around, looking for a distraction and noticed a bunch of old messages still in V’s inbox. He shouldn’t look really, but what the hell, he’s seen them already when he was in V’s head, so what’s the difference? Mostly they’re dull, but one of them is from a name he recognises from those days, ‘Hmm, Judy...?’

-

Kerry has known what he’s getting for V for weeks; he absolutely can’t wait to start the preparations.

With just a couple of weeks to go to Christmas, everything is pretty much in place and Kerry can relax into planning the decorations for the penthouse and ordering the food and drinks for the big day which takes up most of the morning. With the afternoon comes a lift-packed with packages and boxes, and one happy rock star ready to get stuck into decorating every inch of the living-space. Reality sets in soon after and Kerry directs from the sofa as a couple of the building’s porters rush around with lights, baubles and greenery for a fat tip. Kerry looks around, the warm glow of the lights twinkle in his eyes, he can’t wait for V to see this.

V had no idea what Kerry was planning, either for the house or for his Christmas gift. He was vaguely aware that he should probably get something for his boyfriend, but he’d never bought a gift in his life and no-one at the Afterlife was any help, so the thought slowly slipped out of his mind. He was looking forward to getting home though, Kerry had messaged him that he had a surprise for him, and that was always something to look forward to.

‘Festooned’ isn’t a word that V had ever heard, but if he had that is what would be on the tip of his tongue as he steps out of the lift. Every nook, cranny and surface of the penthouse had lights, candles, garlands and trimmings all over it. There were three ceiling height trees around the living space lit with golden lights and covered with silver baubles as well as a full-sized golden reindeer in the corner. V stopped in the doorway and stared.

“Well, what do you think?” asks Kerry, running towards him with tinsel wrapped around his waist.

“I think.....” V swallows, “I think it’s the second most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.” He says spinning Kerry around and pulling him in by the tinsel for a kiss under the mistletoe.

-

With a week to go, Johnny’s plan is coming together. Once he’d explained to Judy who he was, and she’d got it off her chest what she thought of him, they actually worked quite well together. Judy helped him find what he needed and he would pick out what was important and then she’d help him put it all together how he wanted it. He was surprised how much he enjoyed the process and thought that he would ask Judy to show him more of what she knew after this as an added string to his bow in his new merc life.

Kerry and V had invited him round for Christmas, at first he wasn’t sure, not his scene playing happy families, but he owed them, he even kinda loved them, so he agreed. ‘Definitely gonna delta as soon as I give them this though.’ He thought to himself.

That evening, the three friends go out to a restaurant, just because. It’s something that they make time to do every few weeks or so, otherwise V and Johnny would only see each other at work and Johnny would try to avoid seeing Kerry at all (guilt issues amongst other things). Kerry goes out onto the balcony for a smoke and to look down at the city, he’s joined by a good-looking, well-dressed corpo type, clearly out to bag themselves a millionaire rock star – or a story for the screamsheets. V watches quietly as Kerry chats and flirts...

“Doesn’t it get you mad?” asks Johnny, looking down on the scene.

“...No, not mad. I mean, who wouldn’t want to try it on with him? As far as they know he’s fair game...” V drifts off, still staring at the Rockerboy (his Rockerboy) below.

Kerry’s relationships had always been fodder for the screamsheets and feeds, but his relationship with V had pretty much flown under their radar, though there had been rumours around for years that he was attached, and some very rare photos of them together, they had both been very careful to keep their relationship private from all but their close friends. This was partly because Kerry was done with bullshit invasions into his private life, but mostly because V’s involvement in the 2077 Arasaka takedown was something that still could get him flatlined if he was discovered, so a low profile was necessary to keep them both safe from retaliation.

The friends watch as Kerry finishes his cigarette, makes his excuses and winds his way back to their table.

“They seemed nice” Johnny sneered.

“They were I guess, but also drunk, boring and grabby, ugh.” Kerry replies wiping a wet handprint off the front of his jacket with a napkin. “Let’s delta, I’m done.”

-

Finally, it's Christmas Eve, V and Kerry have given themselves a few days off and are sharing a cigarette, curled up together still in bed. “I’ve got a photo shoot booked in for this morning, I’ll get the coffee while you get a shower”, Kerry tells his confused input before kissing him on the nose and jumping out of bed.

“I thought that you’d cleared your diary”, V says trying to hide the disappointment in his voice, “...and why am I coming to your photo shoot?”

“You’ll see!”  Shouts Kerry from the kitchen. “Just get in the shower and wear something... nice.”

Johnny’s surprise for his friends was ready. It’s better than he had imagined and he just wished Judy was actually in NC to give her a big hug, though when he’d told her this she didn’t look too keen now he thinks about it. Anyway, for the first time in forever Johnny Silverhand is actually looking forwards to Christmas.

-

Christmas morning arrives... and then disappears again. Kerry is gently snoring in V’s arms and Johnny is passed out in V’s old bed well into early afternoon. V opens one eye sleepily as he hears the concierge and porters downstairs bringing in the food and drinks Kerry had ordered and then snuggles back into him smiling, it’s just too cosy to get up from. A little while later, Kerry awakens and looks up into V’s face, he’s still wearing the stupid, beautiful smile he’s had on there since yesterday, this is nova, but there’s stuff to be done, so with a kiss, he slides out of bed into the shower, gets dressed and then goes downstairs and gleefully unpacks the various, exotic and eclectic foods and drinks that clutter the dining area.  When V finally emerges some time later, Kerry is putting on the finishing touches to the table, V slides his hands around his waist and kisses his neck,

“Merry Christmas Ker.”

“Mmm, Merry Christmas to you too baby.” Kerry purrs as he turns in his lovers arms, frames his face in his hands and kisses him deeply. Johnny is due in a few minutes so they keep it together – though it wouldn’t be the first time he’d walked in on them – not by a long way.

Johnny arrives uncharacteristically promptly and swaggers out of the lift before taking off his shades removing his cigarette from his lips and looking around the room. “Shit Kerry, did a glitter factory explode in your condo? “

“Very funny, here sit down; I’ll get you a drink, tequila, bitters, splash of beer and a chilli twist yeah?”

“Yeah, thanks.” Johnny replies, still looking incredulously at the decorations covering every surface.

“So V,” asks Johnny while Kerry fixes the drink, “what did you end up getting him for Christmas?”

V rubs his wrists absently and thinks back 14 hours or so ago to being tied to the bed with Christmas ribbon and Kerry discovering a massive gift tag tied to V’s dick reading ‘To Ker, do not open til Christmas, All my love, V xxxxxx.’

“Erm, .....”

“Drinks!”

 Johnny sees the look of relief on V’s face and knows him well enough not to ask again.

Kerry returns with drinks for them all, and with plates of food all of which he plonks onto the coffee table before sliding onto V’s lap and nuzzling into his neck, V squeezes him tightly and they whisper together, smiling and looking into each other’s eyes.

Johnny is pretty used to them kissing in front of him and patting each other’s asses, but this PDA is unusual even for them, if it wasn’t so sappy, it’d be quite sweet in a nauseating and gross kinda way.

To break the tension – that only he is feeling – Johnny leans forward and blurts, “What was this gift you were so excited about giving V then Ker?”

Kerry and V look at each other and smile with raised eyebrows, “Didn’t you see it yet? Christ it’s everywhere...” Kerry giggles. “Put the Entertainment News Network on, Shit Johnny how have you not seen it??”

“Been busy sleeping off a hangover...” Johnny replies as he blinks on the feed.

“.......Rock superstar Kerry Eurodyne has delighted fans this morning with a rare update on his much discussed relationship status, though some might be disappointed to find he is now officially...taken! These gorgeous photos were published to his website earlier today...”

The holo shows two photos, both artfully shot in mostly black and white, the first is of the back of V’s broad naked shoulders, Kerry is looking over V’s right shoulder with an intense stare right down the camera, V’s head is down and Kerry has one hand gripping the hair on the back of his neck and the other flat on V’s back. The only colour is the blue of his eyes, the gold of his implants and of the only jewellery he is wearing, a broad gold ring studded with emeralds. V has ‘mainline’ written across his shoulders in eyeliner.

The second is of Kerry’s back,  V’s face is discreetly hidden in Kerry’s neck so that only the top of his head can be seen and Kerry’s head is turned towards him, his cheek in his hair, one of V’s hands clutches Kerry’s naked butt cheek, the other grips his back, as if it’s about to scratch down, the only colour here is a matching, dark platinum, sapphire ring on his left hand and ‘mainline’ written in red lipstick down the middle of Kerry’s spine.

“...this is all so ‘on brand’ for Eurodyne, but damn him for being so mysterious. Who is this lucky mystery man is what we all want to know...”

Johnny flicks off the feed and looks over at them, only now noticing the matching rings and resisting the urge to tell them it looks like an aftershave commercial he says,  “So, are you two getting married or some lame shit? Cuz if.........”

Kerry laughs, swinging on V’s neck, “God no, never again.”

“No way,” V agrees whilst nibbling on Kerry’s ear.”We’re just....” he shrugs as if looking for the right words, “each other’s forever,” he finishes grinning down at Kerry, who gives him an indulgent smile and a kiss on the chin.

“And this is for you Johnny.” Says Kerry as V slides a box across the floor towards him.

Johnny could count on his one good hand how many presents he’d had in his adult life, this was unexpected.

“What is it?” he says staring.

V laughs as Johnny picks up the box and looks through it.

“Some psychofan in The Glen had all that in his apartment, do you remember? I was sent there to klep Kerry’s guitar, but you talked me into taking all this other stuff...”

In the box was disks, posters, a couple of old DVD’s and a pair of Johnny’s old leather pants. He held them up, looking at them critically.

“I sure as shit have some style don’t I?”

-

Johnny was getting more sure by the second that his decision to give them their gift and delta was the right one, this was all getting too sweet and sickly for his tastes.

“So... I made you this.” He drawls throwing a paper bag with the top folded down in the couple’s general direction. 

V catches it and looks inside, he looks at Johnny quizzically, then up at Kerry, before showing him what’s inside the bag.

“Start them at the same time, have fun and...Merry Christmas.” He mutters almost angrily, unused to showing such displays of emotion.

V and Kerry pluck a BD wreath from the bag, each with a shard already loaded. They put them on and shift in their seat until they are lying curled around each other, with a last look into the other’s eyes they switch on....

The first scene has no sound, but shows a teenage Kerry in his bedroom, playing a song on his acoustic guitar with his black hair falling over a face screwed up in concentration, listening for the chords, finding the music. Next a loud, screaming chord makes them both jump and they’re in a garage, Kerry, still only a teenager is playing with his first band, already better than the much older guys that he’s playing with. V is mesmerised by the confidence of the young man’s playing and by the depths of the brown eyes that he was seeing for the first time. A time jump and Kerry gasps as they’re there the first time he meets Johnny, both sat crossed legged ignoring the party going on around them, sharing a cigarette, playing guitars and laughing, then on to Samurai’s first gig, V almost can’t believe how beautiful Kerry is with his hair cascading down his back, now held from his gorgeous eyes with his trademark bandana. Song follows amazing song as the BD flips through Samurai’s various looks, tours and back catalogue, until a montage of Kerry’s solo stage work ,makes V grin and hold onto his mainline all the tighter. The film finishes with a clip that Judy must’ve taken at some point, but that V didn’t really recall. They’re sat in some diner, she asks him why he’s not eating and he looks up at her biting his lip and smiling,

“I’ve met someone Jude, it’s early days but...we just get each other. I think...I think I’m in love.”

It takes a moment for them to remove the wreaths, Kerry is the first to look across to where Johnny was sat, but registers no surprise when he sees he’s gone. He looks down at V smiling,

“Let’s go back to bed.”

[Note: ��Mainline’ is a term that’s not much used in CP77, though it is in the RPG, if you’re not sure, it means a serious, long term partner.]

[thefanficmonster]

Sign From The Past

Andrew/Abraham (The Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope) x Reader (Female)

Warnings: Spoilers for Little Hope, Swearing, Blood and Injury, Bus Crash (Mentioned)

Genre: Romance, A bit of Angst

Summary: Following the bus crash and the group of students and their professor getting stranded in the eerie town of Little Hope, Y/N and Andrew come to find out a lot about and themselves as in their thoughts and feelings as well as about each other. It does take a little push from the past to pass the threshold though.

Requested by 💞 Anon. Hi darling! Thank you so much for your lovely request, it was a real joy to write. Also thank you so much for your patience - I know the wait has been really long and I’m extremely sorry for that but I still hope you come across the fic and read it. If so, I hope you enjoy it! Love, Vy ❤

Y/D/N - Your Double’s Name (Same first letter as your name)

Y/N stands behind John and observes as her professor is attempting to wake up the possibly concussed boy sitting on the ground with his back against the roof of the flipped bus they had all been safely seated in less than ten minutes ago. Her classmate and best friend Taylor’s struggling to fetch even the tiniest possible signal with her phone held up in the air, muttering curses under her breath. Two more classmates are unaccounted for at the moment but that’s not what’s bothering Y/N the most right now - maybe it’s messed up, but it’s true. 

The girls main attention and worry is focused on the boy who’s still unconscious. The boy she’s praying will wake up soon.

Being the only one with a med major, Y/N was quick to tend to any external wounds such as the cut on Andrew’s forehead which was rather deep but nothing to get too worked up about. There was not much she could do without a med-kit which made her feel utterly helpless and useless while John continuously reassured her Andrew and the rest of them would all be ok.

Come on, Andrew. Don’t scare us like this

As if overhearing her thoughts, Andrew’s eyes started fluttering open, causing Y/N’s heartbeat to pick up, her legs automatically carrying her closer to him, ducking down in front of him to get a good look at him.

She’s the first person his gaze lands upon before fluttering over to John. His eyebrow seems to raise ever so slightly before he looks at Y/N again, “Y/N, what happened? Who’s that?“

Her heart dropped and so did the smile that appeared on John’s face as a result of Andrew’s consciousness returning.

Overhearing Andrew’s question, Taylor quickly comes over as well, ducking down next to Y/N. “Rise and shine, Andy. We’re stuck in a ghost town, this is no time to be taking naps.”

Andrew scoffs, looking at Taylor, “Maybe you could run that back a bit cause I have no idea where I am or what on Earth happened.” His eyes shift back to you, “Any explanation would be nice, Y/N. Even a shitty one.”

Y/N sighs, “We were going on a fieldtrip and our bus crashed. This is our professor,” she points to John and then to Taylor, “And this is our classmate. Two others are with us but we don’t know where they are at the moment.”

The boy stays quiet for a moment, his gaze distancing and becoming unfocused to the point of scaring Y/N but then he starts talking, focusing again, “You’re a med major, so doc can you please tell me why the hell I remember none of what you just told me?“

Even though the girl is rather shocked by his memory of her and her major, she hurries to recompose herself and reply, “You’re just concussed, Andrew. Don’t worry, you’ll be perfectly fine soon, nothing to panic over. I promise.”

Taylor snorts from next to her, cutting the tension, “Wow Andy, you know Y/N AND her major but you can’t even remember our names. Just wow!”

“Not everyone leaves the same impression on a person, Taylor.“ John says, looking between Y/N and Andrew knowingly.

“You got that one right professor.“ Taylor agrees, nudging Y/N’s shoulder with her own, sending a wink her best friend’s way despite the other girl desperately avoiding her gaze.

All she can really do is sit in the intense heat of her blush and hope it’s not as apparent as her crush on Andrew seems to be.

It’s gonna be one hell of a night, she thinks to herself.

If only she knew how right she was...

                                                            *  *  *

“Feeling any better? Any fatigue or nausea?“ Y/N asks Andrew as the two continue down the road, walking ahead of everybody else. This is a routinely question she’s been asking him every thirty or so minutes while hoping she wasn’t annoying him too much with it.

Luckily, he never made her feel like she was, always replying in a friendly, light-hearted manner and even with a hint of a smile, “No, I’m good, don’t worry.”

Right, as if Y/N had a switch to flip to turn her worry off. She’s always been the nurturing type. The one who always over-cares and is always over-kind. She’s been like that with everyone since forever. But with Andrew, though she refuses to admit it, it’s obviously a bit different and more intense.

Seeing as how she’s the only one he remembers, he’s been sticking by her side and gravitating towards her the whole night - much like she’s been doing as well. Little do they both know that even back on campus, in the gardens and the hallways of their college they’d somehow always end up finding one another and walking together to or from class. There are invisible magnetic forces between them, pulling them towards one another so subtly neither of them have noticed. Not yet, at least.

“Hey look! An old train station.“ Y/N points out, looking first to Andrew then turning around in search of the rest of their group members. Her heart drops when all her gaze lands upon is the thick fog that’s been following them everywhere they’ve gone so far and doesn’t seem to show any sign of thinning anytime soon.

Having noticed her mild distress at the absence of their professor and classmates, Andrew hurries to approach her, subconsciously resting a hand on her shoulder, “Hey, they’re probably right behind us, don’t freak out, ok?” His eyes stare into hers so convincingly that all she can do is nod. When she does so, he continues, “Ok, good. Let’s go into the station, see if we can find anything or anyone.” She nods again, praying the blush that’s appeared on her cheeks as a result of the physical contact isn’t visible in the faint light of the streetlight.

As the two turn to venture onward, Y/N nearly jumps out of her skin when she feels Andrew’s hand slide down her arm to take a hold of hers as if afraid he’d lose her in the dark. She tries not to pay too much mind to it and not read into it, biting her lip to suppress the involuntary smile that’s creeping up on her face.

Seeing this moment with the two so at peace and relaxed, the horrors felt mocked apparently and felt the need to intervene.

Just as the two students are about to pass the threshold into the station, a hand covered in cracked ashy skin takes hold of Andrew’s forearm, pulling him in the station.

And simultaneously into the past.

When him and Y/N come to they are shocked at the sight that greets them: themselves. The two of them are standing next to a horse carriage, wearing attire from centuries ago and speaking in hushed tones and whispers but loud enough to be understood at the distance they were at. Y/N and Andrew decide to stay quiet and avoid being spotted by them.

“Never have I thought I’d have to send you off such a way and for such a reason, Y/D/N.” The man who looks exactly like Andrew says, his head hanging low with disappointment, regret and sorrow.

“Abraham, listen to me, this is no fault of yours. You are doing what you think will keep me from harm and I’m grateful with all my heart. I just worry the Reverend will find out you had something to do with me...“

“I’d regret not a single thing even if he did find out.“ The man, Abraham apparently, cuts the girl - Y/D/N - off, his eyes coming up to meet hers again, his hand taking hold of hers. The girl looks around nervously as if to make sure she’s got permission to hold the hand of the man she clearly loves, but then just nods in gratitude.

“I’m forever in your debt, Abraham, thank you.“ She says, bowing her head now too.

“Do not thank me, Y/D/N, and do not speak such nonsense as debt. I would rather die seen as a betrayer of God than see you burnt at the steak or hanged. My lover is no witch and won’t be treated like one till the day I draw my last breath.“

With that Abraham and Y/D/N share one final hug before he helps her up on the carriage which takes off in a direction where Y/N and Andrew see nothing but darkness.

And just like that, the two present versions of those people, are put back where they belong - in the present, surrounded by fog and darkness as previously. The surroundings that previously gave them an uneasy feeling now make them feel comfort because of their familiarity.

“You ok?“ Y/N jumps when Andrew’s hand’s hold on her tightens ever so slightly as if to free her from the web of confusion and fear.

She nods then shakes her head but manages to let out an affirmative hum to reassure him. “You?”

Andrew repeats the same motion she did - a nod followed by a shake of the head, “Yes and no, if I’m being honest. And on the topic of honesty: I haven’t been at the peak of mine as of recent.”

Y/N’s eyebrows furrow, “What do you mean?“

The boy lets out a heavy sigh that is meant to prepare him for what he’s about to say. What he’s about to confess to. “There’s plenty of things I haven’t told you. Things I refused to tell myself too...”

“Andrew, sorry but, I’ve had it with puzzles and riddles all night long. Can you please be straight-forward, I promise I won’t freak out or anything.“

Despite still being hesitant on the matter, Andrew decides to listen to Y/N’s advice - or rather request - and nods before continuing, “You’re one of my best friends, Y/N, I hope you know that and I trust you and I care for you and...and I just tonight came to understanding that it was always something...more than a friend. More than a best friend. I’m sorry if this makes you feel weird or awkward or if you don’t feel the same way please don’t cushion the rejection or pity me. I just...” As he’s talking he makes the mistake of looking her in the eyes which are giving him the most unimpressed look which gets him to shut up asap.

“If you didn’t already have a head injury I’d smack you.“ She says, eyes narrowed, “Andrew, I’m sorry, but you have to be one of the densest and most oblivious guys I’ve ever met. Like, you’re up there at Daniel’s level when he refused to believe Taylor liked him back. That’s how high up you’re on the scale.“

Her words confuse him, leaving him to process all that she’s said until some type of realization hit him. Only one is turning up and he refused to believe it cause it seems so impossible to him.

“I like you too, you dumbass.“ She says, a smile on her face hiding the tons of exhaustion he’d been seeing on it for the past few hours.

“FUCKING FINALLY!“ The familiar voice of no one but Taylor arises from somewhere behind the couple who have now found themselves at a closer proximity than before, arms automatically reaching for the other to take them in their embrace.

Fucking finally indeed, Taylor.

[peterpan-ouat-imagines]

Family?- Part 3

I go to my tent to lay down because how exhausting fighting was.  It’s gonna take a while to adjust to that.

I close my eyes and fall asleep.  I have another odd dream, it’s of Regina and Emma in the woods talking about how they want to know where I am. 

“Where could she have gone?” Regina says.  The strange thing is it feels so real as if this is actually happening.

“I don’t know but Henry is beating himself up about it pretty hard,” Emma tells her.

It’s like I’m there as they look all in Regina’s vault and head over to the burnt logs where I found Pan. I can feel myself tossing and turning squinting my eyes.

“He should! That is no way to talk to his sister!” Regina looks around with her flashlight more. “This is her phone!” Regina exclaims.

How can my mother actually be defending me? She never does that. I genuinely feel like I’m right there with them and it freaks me out and start screaming.

I start feeling someone shaking me and I wake up

“Y/n, what the fuck happened?” Mike, one of the guys my age asks standing by my side.

“Sorry, bad dream,” I say hiding everything I’m actually feeling about it.

“Why don’t you come out and join us, it might be better than screaming from nightmares,” he chuckles.

I nod and go out and sit and talk with him and a couple other people who are 14 too.  Everything we talk about is really relatable.

“Do you guys ever experience being back in your hometowns? Like dreaming about it?” I ask out of curiosity.

“Eh at first I had nightmares of what living there is like and what I went through but now that’s the last thing that comes across my mind.  Sleep or wake,” Jay says.

I don’t know if I should elaborate or actually explain what I’m going through. I decide it’s best to keep quiet. Don’t want to draw red flags.

As the day comes to an end we cook dinner. Jay takes me and shows me how to find the right berries and what’s poisonous.

We come together and eat and hangout some more.

“So how was your first day on the island?” Adam asks me.

“It was… a lot,” I try to sound casual but I don’t exactly think it came out that way. “But no one else has ever included me or made me feel wanted like all of you have so it’s great,” I smile as I share.

I talk with Adam some more just getting to know the guys it’s really nice bonding and telling jokes with people.

“So what’s Pan’s deal?  Why is he on Neverland?” I ask getting curious and lean in.

“No one knows.  We don’t really know anything about his life before Neverland, he doesn’t talk about it, and we don’t ask,” Adam tells me and we watch him walk into the woods with Felix who’s his second, whatever that means.

“Y/n! Adam! Me and some of the guys are gonna go for a swim in the river, are you two in?” Mike asks us.

“Totally! I’m coming!” Adam exclaims.

“I might sit this one out, it’s getting kind of late,” I fake yawn but really I don’t know them well enough to know if they’ll try to get me out of my clothes.

I go to my tent, right by Pan’s cave and crawl in.  There are a whole bunch of clothes sitting in the corner with price tags still on them.  I look at it all.  Tank tops, shorts, leggings, sweatpants, jeans, short sleeve shirts and a cloak.  They’re all in dark colors like brown or the shade of green he wears. The price tags are in cursive and look fancy. I check them out and they have some big numbers on them and are major brands, I really don’t know how he pulled that off, or why.

Regardless I change into some of it because I’m sick of what I have on now.  I try on a long sleeve shirt and sweatpants that feel big and cozy and comfy.  Being unable to sleep and wanting to give my gratitude, I head over to Pan’s place.

I knock on the side of the bumpy wall, “Can I come in?” I ask.

“Y/n?” he asks curious, “Yes, come in,” he tells me.  I slowly walk inside.

“I just wanted to say thank you, for the clothes,” I tell him.

“Of course, I can’t have my only lost girl without anything to wear,” he tells me.

“Okay, please don’t phrase that in that way,” I tell him.

He looks confused.

“Don’t refer to me as your only lost girl following by my lack of clothing as if there could be some alternative meaning.  I don’t… see you that way,” I tell him tensing up.

“Y/n, I didn’t mean it like that, I-” he begins but I cut him off.

“Really? Why? I lived my life feeling emotionally abused and alone why should I not expect a different kind of abuse at a new place? Same song different verse,” I sigh feeling like an idiot, “I should’ve known being around people who were so nice was too good to be true,” I look down.

“ Y/n Mills, I seriously do not see you as an item to be objected. I don’t know everything you went through but I want to do right by you,” he tells me with a straight face and I can tell he means it, “If any of the lost boys are giving you trouble…” he goes on.

“No no everyone is super sweet, Adam and Mike especially,” I tell him.

I walk around a little looking at things he has. It’s pretty empty besides a cot and a side table with a few things on it.  He has a simple side lamp, some trinkets, and a knife.  Seeing the knife makes me nervous and my eyes go wide, “You have a knife?” I question a little.

“Yeah,” He walks over and picks it up, “Watch this,” he turns around and throws it. It spins around and around in the air and digs into the rock and you can hear it go in.

Normally I’d be terrified but I would have thought that would be too hard a material to get something to stick into.

My eyes go wide and I look at him, “H-how did you do that? That looks insanely hard!” I ask amazed.

He smirks a little arrogantly but he deserves to, “Years of practice,” he wiggles his eyebrows.

“You have to teach me that!” I tell him genuinely wanting to know such an intimidating skill for the first time since I got here.

He chuckles, “Okay,” he opens a drawer and grabs another one.

“Do you have a collection or something?” I ask joking.

He ignores the comment and comes behind me and places it in my hand adjusting my finger position. His hands tangle in mine as it happens but I kind of like it.

He holds my hand moving it back and my wrist feels really awkward, “When I say so let go of it,” I nod, my hand is jerked forward some, “Now!” I let go of it a little too late and it hits the wall but rather than digging into the sediment the side hits it and it makes a sound when it hits the ground.

I look down and blush embarrassed, “It’s your first time, you can’t expect perfection already,” he looks at me, “You can keep it if you want, just about everyone has one, it would be good to practice.”

I look up, “Really? That’s really sweet of you,” I tell him, “Are you sure though? I’d hate to ruin your hardcore bad boy reputation,” I tease.

“It can be our little secret,” he says.

“Alright thanks,” I smile, “Well I should be getting to my tent, it’s getting kind of late,” I say and head there.

I crawl in my tent and lay under the sleeping bag thinking.  What was that? Did we just have a moment or something? No! It’s day 2 I can’t allow that shit.

I freak out overthinking the past hour. Why did he get that close with me? Is he just messing with me? Giving me that knife felt a bit too personal to just mess with me. He did give me a rather big sleeping space.  No. Just... no. I go straight to sleep.

I keep dreaming of the same thing, people back home searching for me.  This time everyone is gathered in Mr. Gold’s office and looking into a crystal ball.  It’s purple and smoky on the inside and no image is coming from it.  It swirls up and fades to a light shade of blue.  Confusion comes across everyone’s faces and then it ends.  I don’t know why it doesn’t comfort me.  I should be sleeping with ease, but I just can’t.

The next few days are like the previous and I’m trying to get more used to my new lifestyle.  On the following week Pan gets us together and says we have fight practice which makes me nervous.  Me and him have had a couple one on one sessions, but I’m not prepared for this!

I wait till everyone lines up so I can be last.  I watch and I see that even these 12 year olds are doing it.  That is not fair to them!  They should not be learning such a violent skill at this age.  I watch them and they are pretty good but they shouldn't be doing it it is just not right.  Finally it’s my turn and I’m going up against Jay, someone in my age group and also who I kinda know.  Hopefully he will take it easy on me.  I pick up the stick on the ground nervously shaking slightly but try to keep a stoic demeanor like Pan tells me when we are together.

“Fight!” Pan states.

We inch towards each other and I hit his stick and he hits it back much harder.  I gulp and stand straighter. I get more serious now and hit harder and aggressively.

I follow Pan’s advice that he said on our first day at the beach: Think about how your family made you feel and channel it.  Once I focus on that thought it gets much more intense as we go back and forth.  He hits my stick insanely hard and I start wobbling backwards.

“Stop!” Pan shouts.

Jay swings at me one last time and it nicks my arm.  After he does I stick my arm behind me to hold myself from hitting my head on a tree. I’m able to keep myself from hitting my head but the point at which I’m touching it is near the bottom and slopes down and I slide to the floor.

Everyone gets confused and annoyed when Pan stops us, including me.

“What the heck Pan?”

“What happened?”

Many other comments like this others said.

Jay puts his hand out and helps me up.

“You fought well,” he tells me.

“Thanks, same with you,” I say.

Everyone separates and does there own thing.

“Pan, can I talk to you?” I ask him.

He nods and I walk over, “First, why did you want us to stop fighting? Second, I know it’s a rule but I really don’t think some of these kids that are really young should be fighting. It’s not right for them to have this kind of a skill,” I explain quietly.

I look at him but he doesn’t get defensive or angry about any of it like last time I raised concern for the 12 and under. He just stares at me.

“Why are you so concerned about there well being? You’ve known them a week. That kind of thing is something an adult would say,” he fights.

I start to get upset with him, “I don’t know I just feel the need to lookout for them!” I shout angry, “You’re their leader, you really should be doing the same!” I huff, “Now answer my other question.  I literally lost my balance and you immediately called it off, as much as I don’t want to fight, I don’t want to be treated like that,” I cross my arms.

“I can’t help but want to protect you,” he tells me staring me in my eyes and I do the same .  I can feel that he means more than just that.

“Pan, I’m not going to be that girl who is with some guy she just met,” I tell him.

“For someone who isn’t into being in that situation, you sure give a lot of misleading signs,” he tells me stepping closer.

“At some point I do, just not now. Okay?” I answer.

“Why not?!” He asks almost sounding angry about it.

“I’m not used to someone caring about me and not others. I really like how you actually do care, truly, but unless you make the rules on hunting and stuff safer for some of these kids I can’t. Being with you right now means I’m okay with it which I’m not,” I explain.

He grab my shoulders and pulls me towards him and kisses me. Passionately.  I can feel the spark between us and all I want to do is melt into it. I quickly pull away not wanting to lose authority in this situation.

“No,” I step away.

“We both felt that, you can’t deny it,” he tells me.

“Your not wrong, but your ways here are wrong and I don’t support it,”

I dig into the side of my boot to grab my knife he gave me to give back and see I’m bleeding. I sit down and take off my boot as the blood rushes out, “Fuck!”

Pan puts his arm on me and we appear in the med hunt.

He starts pouring water on it to clean it and I am incapable of looking at something so gross,”It’s okay. Just hang in there,” he tells me.

He wraps and unwraps and redoes it trying to get it right, “How do you not know how to do this?!” I shout in pain.

“I am doing it!” He shouts back angry.  He does it one last time. Getting it right... finally.

Moments later we appear in his cave with me in his cot and him standing next to me.  I look around feeling uncomfortable, “Pan I want to go back to my tent,” I tell him.

“You need proper rest,” he tells me.

“No, I don’t,” I tell him forcefully trying to give him the hint.

“Why are you being so stubborn?” he asks.

“I told you why already!” I shout.

Jay and Mike run in which apparently isn’t normal for others to enter as they please I was told, “Is everything alright?  We heard shouting,” Mike asks.

“Yes,” Pan says calmly.

“No, it’s not!” I shout, “Pan, the reason I went to reach something in my leg is because I wanted to give you this back,” I hand him his knife, “Can you two help me?” I ask trying to get out of the bed.

He looks at it and then me, “Is this how it’s going to be?” he asks as the two boys help me out and Mike puts my arm around his neck.

“Until your willing to change, yeah,” I hobble out with the two’s assistance.

“What happened in there?” Mike asks.

“Drama that I am not getting into,” I huff tired from dealing with Pan.

I ask to be left alone for the rest of the day from being too stressed out from earlier.

Another week passes and Pan and I have barely spoken.  It feels so weird, it’s like we are strangers all of a sudden.

I have another nightmare that completely changes everything.

My mom and Mary Margaret are going through my sketchbook which makes me happy because no one has ever took an interest in my work before.  They flip through the pages and their jaws both slowly drop as they look at all of my detailed Neverland drawings.

“She is not...” Regina says.

Mary Margaret carries it over too Emma with purpose.  Her expression is the same and soon everyone is crowding over as they slowly look through each drawing.

“This is not good,” David states.

“How the hell do we get her back?!  We don’t have a bean or a portal!” Regina exclaims angry.

“I don’t know,” Hook comments.

Once again it is unexplainably vivid.  Some gut feeling of mine almost feels as if I can explore Storybrooke through my dreams.

The next morning I come out and we have to hunt which I am starting to catch onto.  We are about to split up in our own groups until Pan stops everyone.  

“I will choose your positions from now on,” he tells us all, “Patrick Daniel, Ed, you three will be picking berries from now on, along with you four,” he gestures at some of the other insanely young kids.

They all groan and complain asking why.  I think about it and look at him in a better light now.  Nothing that changes me choosing to be with him though.  I don’t know if it’s for me, but I don’t know what other reason he would do it.

Me, Adam, and Mike make a new group, “What do you guys think that was about?” Mike asks as we walk through the forest.

Adam shrugs and I don’t know whether to say it but I trust them, “It’s because of me.  Remember last week when I was with him and hurt my leg?  Before we had a pretty intense conversation about our feelings and I gave him an ultimatum.  I would be with him only if he made conditions safer for the younger guys,”

“What? Why?” they ask.

I hear footsteps, “Shhhh!!!” as the hog comes into view I quietly approach it.  Aiming just right a throw my spear straight at it and hit it.

“Damn y/n, nice shot,” Adam tells me.

We carry it back and some of the older guys cook it.

The younger kids come back with the fruit and berries and I feel good about it.  I don’t know if he truly wants me or if it’s some other reason but it makes me happy.

“Are you not going to talk to him?” Adam asks and looks back at Pan.

“I don’t know, I know it’s for me but-” I begin.

“It’s never mattered to Pan what we do on the island before.  And after what you told me and Mike...” he starts.

“It’ll take more than that to get me back,” I tell him.

Later that day I go out in the woods for a stroll.  I walk out to the beach looking out at this island with a giant skull, surrounded by rocks and the murky sea.  I can’t help but wonder what is inside.  I take this canoe nearby out and start to row over.

As I make it about a 100 feet out rowing with some paddles, Pan suddenly appears across from me.

“What do you think you’re doing?” he asks.

“I’m checking out that skull island it looks so cool!” I say.

“You can’t,” he tells me.

“Make me!” I growl over his stubbornness.

He tries to pull the oar from out of my hands and I fight back, “Stop it!  Your going to make it tip!” I shout not wanting to get wet.

The canoe wobbles violently.  It tilts over and completely turtles.

“Really?” I ask annoyed.  I start to swim in the direction of my destination.

“What is wrong with you?! I did what you wanted doesn’t that mean we can be together?” he asks.

I stop swimming when I hear him admit it and turn around and tread water, “And this is for good, right?  I don’t need you deceiving me and in two weeks or something,”

He stares at me for a long moment taking a long time to respond which makes me nervous, “Yes,” I can’t tell if he’s lying or not and he starts to swim over to me.

Even though I don’t know his true intentions I can’t help but find him putting what I want above what he does wildly attractive.  He’s right in front of me now and the tension is undeniable.  I kiss him deeply and he holds my face doing the same.  Our lips slowly separate and I smile.

[defdaily]

THE STAR Magazine April 2021 Issue featuring JAY B

Translated by defdaily.

GOT7’s eternally sincere leader JAY B. A friendly interview where you can feel his warm-heartedness.

*This interview was done in informal language to give off the feeling of two friends chatting*

It has been a while since we last met for GOT7’s feature in 2017.

Right, hi. I’m JAY B. Nice to meet you. Have you eaten?

JAY B has been chosen to be on the cover of THE STAR’s 8th anniversary issue.

Dobby is free now. (Laughs). I’m a freelancer now but I still can’t believe the fact that I was chosen to be on the cover of THE STAR’s anniversary issue. I’m so thankful to THE STAR for choosing me to be on the cover so I worked extra hard during the shoot.

How are you doing these days? We’re curious to know what you have been up to.

A freelancer’s daily life is always similar. I work when there is work and rest when there isn’t. I was busy recently organising this and that to release GOT7’s digital single ENCORE. I took the lead and there were many things I needed to figure out such as paperwork. So I was very proud. The members have all joined agencies but I want to take a little more time and think about it carefully before choosing. I’m still a freelancer.

Does the freelancing life suit you?

I don’t know if it suits me but it’s fun. Now work-related calls come to me directly, so I would be asleep then receive a call. I’d go “Ah I fell asleep for a moment, sorry. What is this about?” (Laughs). Since I do even these kinds of small communications myself, it’s nice and fascinating to realise the value of work and opportunities. If I didn’t have this time and experience, I think I might have not realised the value of work as much. I used to be on edge at times when the managers used to tell me things in the past. But now that I’ve learnt how much processing has been done before the information reached me, I feel sorry. Now I have a heart full of gratitude for opportunities.

I don’t know if it’s because you’re a freelancer now, but you seem much brighter than before.

Dobby is free now. (Laughs) I’m joking. Of course it was very helpful having a company. But now that I do everything myself, I feel more satisfied. I enjoy it.

The GOT7 members have all started solo activities. It must not have been easy for everyone, how did you come to your decision?

Right. It definitely was not easy. The seven of us researched a lot so that we can continue as GOT7 together. But then we thought that we should broaden our view so each of us could end up in a better situation. In the process, what we each wanted changed a little and, there is a future that each person dreams of right? The company said we did everything we could do on our part and that they will cheer us on in the future, that made me feel proud. We are also very thankful to the company. I felt that we received a lot of protection under a large umbrella. After all, the company is like the mother that gave birth to GOT7, so I’m thankful to them and respect them. I also thought a lot and looked into a lot of things about how to continue as GOT7. I also went to the president and asked him for advice, and I greeted and thanked Jinyoungie hyung for everything.

While preparing for new activities, what was the thing most discussed amongst the members?

“So what is it that you want to do?” “So what do you want to do?” We asked that a lot. So everyone said “We have to do it" So I asked again “No, not 'I have to', but do you want to do this? Or do you not want to do this?” If you are going to do something, you should do it properly, right? If you are not going to do something with an active attitude, I think it’s better to not do it. So we all came together and decided to give it a try.

It’s clear that you are GOT7’s leader.

One advice the company president told me was that my talent and effort as a leader starts now. Personally handling matters related to our recent digital single, I felt this “Taking the lead as a leader, I need to really work hard.” There was a lot of pressure, but if I don’t do it, who would. It pushed me to work hard.

You mentioned very clearly in your social media livestream that “GOT7 did not disband.” I felt your affection towards the team, what does GOT7 mean to JAY B?

One extremely important thing in my life. Actually, it’s an indispensable part. I’m thankful for the fact that our team exists. You have to know that because GOT7 existed, we individually exist too. It wouldn't matter if my beginning was as a solo, but my beginning was as GOT7. That's what made me who I am now.

How is Lim Jaebeom different as JAY B within GOT7, JJ Project, Jus2 and ØFFSHORE?

Comprehensively they’re all sides of me but if I have to split them, they would be a novel vibe versus an essay vibe. ØFFSHORE and Def. are all about music I like, regardless of genres, and honest stories I want to tell. As for GOT7, JJ Project and Jus2, we would have a particular concept and make it a bit more fancy.

Most of the songs you have shown on SoundCloud are R&B genres with a groovy feel. Have you ever had a conflict between music you want to do and music you have to do?

I felt that I needed to work harder to prove [myself] to do what I wanted to do. I can’t always be spoon-fed. To prove [myself] I made more GOT7 tracks and sent around 15~20 demos. Later on Jinyoung hyung and the president acknowledged me and said “Jaebeom will take care of the musical aspect. You can trust him with that.” I felt really proud hearing that. I don’t really feel a sense of conflict between the musical differences. From pop and R&B to folk and modern rock, I don't want to draw lines between genres and make music that sounds good.

We are curious about the music JAY B will show alone and what you’ll pursue. What stories do you want to tell?

I want to do a variety of things. Alone, I think I will try mixing genres and do things that are fun and experimental. I can also do R&B pop or Urban genres which I’ve originally liked. But that might change later on.

Is there an artist you’d like to collaborate with in the future?

Someone with a pleasant tone to listen to. Even now, when I listen to music and I like the artist’s tone, I send them a DM asking if they’d like to collaborate. And Korea's top hip hop artist, IU-nim. Do you think it's possible? (Laughs).

Then would you like to send a message to IU?

Suddenly? Um… I will work very hard. If by chance you think my song is alright, I would love for you to add your nice voice to them. (Laughs)

An appearance that may seem cold with a tsundere charm. But what do you think your real personality is like?

I’m the type that is quiet and calm, but people close to me tell me I’m a weird person. When I cry reading a book or watching a movie, or when I get emotional they say “It’s so weird, it doesn’t suit you.”

Are you the tender type?

I think I just often get hit by waves of emotions.

We’re curious about the lifestyle you seek and your values.

To live each day without any regrets.

Is there a place you’d like to visit after COVID-19 ends?

Kyoto, Japan. It’s a place where there is a lot of Japanese heritage and it’s also pretty.

Recently you have combined your two Instagram accounts @jaybnow.hr and @def.cnvs, what was the reason?

I’m the one doing everything after all, it is just the musical name that was different. I can’t split my body into two. I realised I could combine them into one account and just show the difference within it. And as I get older, it’s hard to manage two accounts. (Laughs). Was I too honest? Now I'm confused about what's what.

Was there any other moment that made you feel old?

I don’t do much and my whole body aches. In the past, my body wouldn’t get affected by the weather. Now when the weather is gloomy my back hurts and my knees go numb. (Laughs).

I can see that you’re interested in artistic aspects such as photography, painting and fashion etc. Do these things influence your music?

Of course. They affect the way you live in itself. I’m a person who wants to express and leave behind what I feel. Calling myself an artist feels somehow cocky.

What are you interested in recently?

It’s not art but I’m interested in moving around. Living as a freelancer, I spent more time lying down at home, but now I need a fast-paced daily life. I try to wake up in the morning to eat breakfast and nutritional supplements then go outside to photosynthesize and soak in the world. Everyone has to keep moving. (Laughs).

Are you interested in fashion and lifestyle curation and design etc?

I don’t think I’m a person who dresses up exceptionally well, but if someone asks I’d be willing to help.

What would you introduce as JAY B’s preference?

Freedom. Regarding fashion too, I liked vintage and grunge styles but recently I’m interested in work look and amecage styles. My preference keeps changing. I can't define myself clearly either, but I like the sense of being free.

What inspires you?

Many situations and people, my experiences as well as indirect experiences.

How do you have an indirect experience?

Watching movies and reading books. Nowadays I read song lyrics and unfold the scenes in my head. I try to think of various points of view in these one-act plays.

To JAY B, love is?

Nonexistent. A moment. I don’t know. As you live life, I think falling in love is a momentary emotion. If it lasts long, I think it’s affection not love. I'm a person who has to talk about love, but sometimes I wonder if it’s okay to feel this way. There are also many different forms of love. The love that my parents give me and the love that my fans send me. I’m thankful for everything.

While promoting for 10 years, what was the happiest moment and most lacking point?

I feel like every moment until now has been somehow lacking. Whenever you look back you end up thinking “I should’ve done better back then.” I think everyone feels that way. But I never regret those times I’ve spent. The happiest instance was when I spotted my parents at a fanmeeting and ran to them and held them while singing. It felt like I was boasting to my fans “These people are my father and mother,” and it also felt like I was showing my parents how I was receiving that many fans’ love and support. I'm thankful that the fans looked at my family happily at that moment.

Have you ever had a slump?

I don't think about something if I think I'm going to fall into something serious, but I'm the type who gets stressed out to do something new.

You are loved not only in Korea but also abroad, have you ever thought about why your fans like you so much?

A lot. I just don't understand. I'm not even popular among my friends... Why on earth?

Think of at least one thing.

Maybe it’s because I worked hard steadily? To be honest, during the past 10 years I have never not tried my best on stage. I can say this with confidence. I’m thankful to be able to do what I like as a job. I have told the members about this previously, I’m sorry for not being affectionate to fans onstage. It’s my nature so I can’t help it. But I have never been indifferent as a singer onstage, that is a fact.

Your bucket list that you surely want to achieve this year?

Being healthy mentally and physically. Since the members have started their solo activities this year, I think I should release an album as well.

Any words for the readers?

Everyone, I’m not saying this as a formal greeting but I really want to say thank you. Hmm… How should I put this? Don’t worry since we are not disbanding. That’s why I tried hard to release the digital single. Continuing on I’m going to try my best to do as much as I can. You might feel disappointed at times along the way, and I apologize in advance for that. But what I can promise is that I’m going to do my best. Thank you so much for supporting me for 10 years. You all know this already, but I’m not so good at things like sending hearts and saying thanks affectionately. I just want to speak sincerely. Thank you so much. I hope everyone will be more happy, not just because you like and support us… I could sound arrogant saying it like this but... I hope our fans are sturdy people who will find their own small sources of happiness in their daily lives even if that isn’t us. And I hope everyone is happy. I’m so thankful and I want to ask you to trust me.

Lastly let us know your future plans.

We will try our best to match our times and do GOT7, JJ Project and Jus2 etc. no matter what. Even if our times don’t match somehow, we’ll try our best to gather even 4 or 5 people and return, so don’t worry. And Dobby is free now. (Laughs). I will do my best in everything. I've made a lot of songs and I'm diligently working on songs right now too, so look forward to it. You’ll be able to listen to it soon. Thank you. This has been GOT7 JAY B. Please give lots of love to The Star’s April issue!

Translated by defdaily.

[nebelihood]

Written Continuation of The Looney Tunes Show Comic

//I never write scripts cause I hate them, I like to draw everything, like go directly to the storyboard you might say, but I don't have time rn and yesterday before going to sleep this idea came to me so I wrote a crappy script of how the episode might go.

Here's the link to what I'm talking about

ALSO- here idk if Bugs and Daffy are dating, Lola and Bugs aren't but idk how things are, It's kinda hard to imagine them together ON THE ACTUAL SHOw, since Daffy is kinda mean here and idk I didn't want to make it toxic, I'll figure something out, just imagine this as if it was the actual show//

Crappy script:

//Also, any suggestion on how to improve, I will really appreciate them! I know I didn't write the INT/DAY/BUGS' HOUSE thingy but I completely forgot, sorry. Also some verbs might be wrong and some words might be incorrect, sorry//

Bugs inside the house is putting batteries on the remote control when his phone starts ringing. it's porky and he's nervous.

Porky:b-b-bugs!

Bugs: Hi porky, what's up?

Porky: b-b-bugs you gotta- gotta help!!!

Bugs worried now: what's wrong?

Porky:t-t-this weekend i-im gonna celebrate my anniversary w-w-with Petunia! I-i don't know what to do!

Bugs moving himself around the house: Just take her to dinner in a nice place

Porky upset: I-I can't do that! T-thats t-t-too ch-cheap a-and c-careless! It has to be something big! What did y-you for y-your anniversary w-with Lola?

Bugs with an annoyed and bored face: We went to dinner on a nice place.

Pory: O-oh...

Lola and Daffy make their way inside the house and go to rhe sofa without the groceries. Bugs looks at them in confusion while heads out of the house.

Bugs: I don't know porky! What does she like? Maybe you can do something she likes for your anniversary.

Porky full of excitement:O-oh! She loves roller coasters a-and-

Bugs happy to find a good idea: That's perfect! The Roller coasters fair is coming up this weekend!

Porky now worried: O-Oh...

Bugs confused: what?

Porky: I-I don't kn-know, I-Im scared of rolller coasters.

Bugs with a tired face: Oh boy...

Porky: I-I don't know Bugs,.I-I'll try t-t-to th-think on something else

Bugs: Okay Porks

They both hang up.

Bugs realices that all the groceries are inside the car and no one helped. He looks back at the house annoyed.

-Short black screen-

Bugs finising putting the groceries inside the kitchen

Bugs annoyed: I little help would have been nice

Daffy annoyingly watching the tv: Yeah, I agree, but the chófer wasted too much time parking and messed everything up!

Bugs rolls his eyes angrily but starts watching the show from the kitchen cause something called his attention.

Police off duty: (I forgot the name of the Chófer so I'll call him Frank) Frank! You really messed up, if you had been on time we wouldn't have stopped him!

Frank: (I also forgot the name of the police so I'll call him huh... P cause i think he was a police) I think you are under appreciating my help, P

P: Huh?

A close up begins on the Frank character as he says: I wake up and drive you whenever you call me, I'm always there on time and I never whine, we always catch the bag guys but this time since I was a little distracted with something. I don't mind doing these things for you but I'd certainly appreciate a little gratitude from you.

P: You are right Frank, I'm sorry

Now we can dee Bugs who is really surprised with how the episode went really well with the situation. Now Bugs looks at Daffy with a not surprised face.

Bugs: Does that ring any bells, Daffy?

Daffy frowns thinking.

Daffy: Hmmmn... Oh yeah! You forgot to buy these things from the grocerie store.

Daffy hands a list without even looking towards Bugs. Bugs with all hope lost rolls his eyes and sighs as he takes the list. Bugs starts heading out. (i think Lola could say something funny here to close the scene but I couldn't of what, i thought she could ask Bugs ro bring her something from the store or both, daffy and Lola called him simp at the same time when bugs left the house but idkk,tske any of those options)

-another short black screen??-

Bugs at the store with a shipping car and looking at the things he still need to get with a sort of tired sad face. From a distance a selling voice says: Are you tired from doing everything at home?! Are you tired of people always depending on you?! Are you tired of your clingy roommate who can't do anything by himself?!

Bugs half surprised and half confused: These things keep conveniently happening.

Bugs get closer to the place where the voice is. Its a small circus like local inside the shop. (Sort of where people read the future in fairs) (picture the character you want here cause idk)

Bugs peeks his head inside the local

Other character: Hi sr! Welcome! Any of these questions called your attention.

Bugs relaxed face comes up: Eeeeehh, just all of them.

Character: Oh! goddie! Or baddie! Or goddie I should say cause I have the solution- right here!

The character pulls out a weird looking chain clock. Bugs points at it half scared half confused.

Bugs: what's that?

Character: It's a clock for hypnosis! Anyone can use it!

Bugs looks confused.

Character: So with this clock you can hypnose other people to do what they never usually do! And finally have some rest.

Bugs still confused but amazed: And you are just selling this on the grocerie store?

The character annoyed: Ya want the clock or not?

Bugs pulling out his wallet: Eeeh, having the option wouldn't hurt.

-Tan tan!- BLACK SCREEN SONG BREAK OR COMMERCIAL BREAK OR SOMETHING??-

[purplebass]

#2 Celbratory Fic! And it's another one with Jesse and his uncles + cousins. This time, Jesse spends time with uncle Gabriel, Thomas, Anna and Grace. You can just say is a continuation of this other fic I've posted a few days ago. The next fic will be about Grace and Christopher (also: anon, I hope you don't mind I'll use your prompt!). I also hint at this in this fic. So, happy reading! ✨

Characters: Jesse Blackthorn, Thomas Lightwood, Gabriel Lightwood, Anna Lightwood, Grace Blackthorn, Lucie Herondale

Jesse sat across his cousin Thomas in the carriage, and it was a bright morning. He forgot how hot the weather could turn towards the summer season, and wished he hadn’t worn a coat, because the air in the vehicle was stale, and he was sweating. Too late. Too late and too bad the windows seemed to be stuck, but at least they had almost arrived at his uncle Gabriel’s house.

“Are you adapting well?” Thomas asked him.

“Uncle Gabriel and aunt Cecily are very kind,” he said. He accepted to live at their house for the time being, while he continued training to become a shadowhunter. “And Anna decided to give me her room while I’m there. I can’t express my gratitude enough.”

Thomas smiled. “Don’t mention it. You’re part of our family. But even if you weren’t, we would still help you, Jesse.”

Jesse couldn’t help but grin, and blush a little. He remembered when he was a child. His mother never failed to mention how his uncles and their families were corrupted, evil, and they needed to be kept at arm’s length, if he ever were to cross paths. But his relatives had been nothing short of welcoming.

“Looks like we’re here,” Thomas announced, glancing outside. “By the angel, uncle!” he exclaimed next, as he opened the door to get off.

Jesse exited after him, and saw his uncle Gabriel touching the side of his shoulder. “Is everything alright?” he asked. Thomas seemed to have stormed inside already.

Gabriel looked up, and winced a little. “Yes, yes. I wanted to open the door for you, but Thomas beat me to it,” he shrugged. “Did you have fun at Gideon and Sophie’s?”

Jesse nodded. “They took me around Idris. It was really nice,” he said. He had seen Idris already, when he was a ghost. But seeing it during the day was something entirely different. He liked the shadowhunter city, and the life that came with it. Although, if he had to be honest, he preferred the area where Blackthorn Manor was located, at the edge of Brocelind forest, where there was nothing else but vegetation around him. And Herondale Manor.

“I’m glad, I’m glad,” Gabriel replied. “When you’re ready, we will accompany you to the manor like you asked last time. Do you still want to renovate it?”

“I think it’s my duty as the last Blackthorn alive.” It felt weird to utter the word alive without thinking himself dead. I am alive. I am alive. I am living. “And I want to see if there is something that can be salvaged from the ruins. You know, family heirlooms, and things like that.” There weren’t many things in the manor that Jesse had cared about, because admittedly, there hadn’t been much to begin with. He hoped that most of the items he used whenever they were there, like the old books which probably belonged to his father or grandparents, hadn’t been destroyed in the fire. He had cherished those books. They were one of the few goods that had given him a glimpse of how his father might have been around his age. He didn’t live that long, after all.

Sometimes, he found himself thinking about Rupert. How life might have turned out, if he hadn’t lost his life before he was born. Now his uncles, aunts and cousins were the closest thing he had to a family. His uncle Gabriel offered to teach him how to use the bow and arrow, which had surprised Jesse. He hadn’t asked anyone to help him with training. He was happy someone offered to help him.

“I’ve always wanted to learn how to use it, but we didn’t have one at Chiswick,” he told Gabriel in the training room of the London Institute, where there was more space available to practice.

Gabriel had made a face. “Strange. There was one which belonged to me, but maybe,” he had shaken his head, lost in thought. “Nevermind. Let’s get started, shall we?”

And then he had spent the day learning how to hold the bow and shoot. It hadn’t been easy, and his shoulders were a little stiff, but he had managed to pull a few good shoots by the end of their session. His uncle had patted his shoulder lightly and had congratulated him. It felt good.

“Not bad for your first time,” he had commented. “How did you find the bow?”

“I think I like it.”

“If we train more, you will get even better. No pressure.”

Jesse wasn’t sure if the bow and arrow was his weapon of choice, but he surely wanted to know more about it. “Thanks, uncle Gabriel,” he had replied, making his uncle’s face brighten.

It was the first time he had called him uncle.

Gabriel and Jesse reached the drawing room. Perched on an armchair, newspaper in hand, sat his cousin Anna Lightwood. “About time, cousin. My tea’s got cold,” she said, twirling the cup in her slender fingers for show. It was empty.

Jesse had heard a lot about Anna. Had seen her while he was a ghost as well. She had a reputation for being fashionable and very direct, confident. Two things he didn’t think he was, but not everyone was perfect, and he was sure that Anna had demons of her own. Perhaps, someday they would talk about it like cousins did. He believed.

“You know that our family’s carriage is slow, Anna,” said Thomas from the window, his arms crossed on his chest.

“Right. Anyway, you’re here, finally,” she said, rising from her seat. “Are you excited that we’re about to redo your wardrobe?”

“I trust your judgement” he answered. “But please, don’t make me ridiculous.”

“You, ridiculous?” Anna’s eyebrows shot up in disbelief. “You could never be ridiculous with such features. Trust me on that. I will make your black hair and green eyes combination shine.”

“If you say so,” he pursed his lips. “Grace,” he said then, as his sister crossed the threshold. She had been staying at the Lightwoods as well, but lately she had been spending more time at Grosvenor Square, where the Fairchilds lived. She told him that she liked to help his cousin Christopher in the lab, and that she wanted to learn more about science. Jesse couldn’t object about that, because he knew that his sister could never truly pursue what she wanted. He just wanted her to be happy, and if science was what she was interested in, so be it.

“I’m sorry I’m late, but I had to change.”

“Did my brother burn something again?” Anna asked. “Last time I wanted to watch what he was doing, he ruined my tie.”

“And he almost burnt my eyebrows once,” Thomas reminded them.

“Nothing of the sort,” Grace said. “It’s late, isn’t it? Shouldn’t we go?” she asked hurriedly, as if she didn’t want to continue that conversation. She barely talked about what happened in the lab, and he guessed she didn’t want to. Not that he wanted to know. He respected her privacy, but not everyone did.

Thomas stayed behind because he had something to do, whereas Jesse, Anna and Grace decided to take a walk to get to the shops where they could find something for him. They didn’t disguise themselves, which he liked. It made him feel part of the world again, to be seen by people. The street Anna had taken them teemed with pedestrians going about their day, and they reached the clothing shop soon. It had a big sign on it, and some dresses on display.

Anna decided that purple and burgundy were Jesse’s color, and she chose a couple of waistcoats. She insisted that she would pay, saying they were a welcoming gift. Now they were visiting the third shop, which was a three floor building which sold different items for men and women alike. He believed they had bought several pieces already, but Anna was convinced that he needed a coat for the winter season, even if it was almost summer. Ah, and a bathing suit. Really? As she was looking around to find the perfect piece, he decided to take a tour around the store, since he had never seen one like that before.

He was by himself as he waited, because Grace excused herself that she also needed to look for something. He walked around and glanced at the accessories and the clothes, until something caught his eye.

“I don’t think that is her style,” Grace said, reappearing by his side as if she had appeared out of thin air.

He lifted a brow. “I don’t know who you’re talking about,” he feigned ignorance. “And how do you know what her style is?”

“You’re right, I have no idea about that. Although I’ve paid attention to her, I’m not sure.”

“About what?” he peered at her as she was checking something from the same rack.

Grace gave him an unreadable look. “She seems fickle. I’m worried that now that she managed to bring you back, she won’t be interested anymore.”

“I understand your concern, Grace,” he told her flatly. “But I can assure you, it’s nothing like that.”

“Has she told you she loves you already?”

“How do you know that?” he asked, blushing, glancing away.

“She did,” Grace said, inclining her head. “I can’t believe it. I thought she would never.”

Jesse didn’t know how Grace had realized that, but he could tell that she understood his feelings, and she didn’t want him to get hurt. He was about to ask her something, when Anna interrupted them.

“This looks refined, cousin,” she commented. “Lucie will like it,” she added, before she stormed away again.

Jesse and Grace exchanged a glance, and the latter grinned. He felt his cheeks warm, and he walked away before his sister could notice he was blushing.

...

A few hours and several bags of clothes and accessories later, they all went back to the Lightwood residence. Anna was pleased with what she had chosen for Jesse, and said that she’d be looking forward to seeing him in one of them at the next event, whatever that might be.

“Anna has a good eye for fashion,” Grace commented, holding two bags of clothes as well. “Do you think she likes us?”

“Why wouldn’t she?” Jesse shrugged. It was a curious question he did not expect.

“Well, you’re her cousin, whereas I’m -” Grace stopped mid-sentence, making Jesse wait. “Lucie.”

She turned abruptly, as if she had been caught with her hands in the cookie jar. She glanced at Grace, then at him. “Hello, Grace. Hello, Jesse.”

“What are you doing here?” Grace asked bluntly. It sounded a bit like an accusation, but considering the conversation they had had in the shop earlier, he expected it. Grace was wary of Lucie.

Lucie sighed, and managed a smile. She wasn’t wearing a hat nor gloves, and he suspected she had been waiting for them. He glowed inside. She came to see him. Which excuse would she use today? He bit his lip expectantly, amused.

“I had to run an errand for… for aunt Cecy,” she mumbled, clutching her hands nervously. “She needed something to do something, I guess.”

Grace wasn’t convinced at all, but she let her go. “See you next time,” she just said, then gazed up at Jesse one last time before leaving them alone.

Once Grace was out of sight and out of earshot, Lucie advanced. She offered him her best smile, which he exchanged with one of his own.

“Nice excuse you’ve got here, huh,” he said.

“Was it that obvious?”

“She already knows, Lucie,” he revealed, to which Lucie just nodded. “You know that Anna took me shopping today,” he changed the topic quickly. He opened his arms, and she hurried to him and put her hands behind his back, and her head on his chest. He closed her in an embrace, and interlaced his fingers behind her neck.

“Did you buy a lot of things?” she asked excitedly. “I can’t wait to see you in one of the suits you bought with Anna.”

“You will see them soon enough, I think. Isn’t there a party next week? At the London Institute?”

“Is it?” she glanced up. “I didn’t. Why has no one notified me?”

“Do not sound so angry,” he chided, a smile dancing on his lips. “No one knows.”

“Are you teasing me, Jesse Blackthorn?” she raised an eyebrow.

“Yes,” he admitted. “I have something for you,” he said, and produced a small pouch from his pocket. “Here.”

Lucie examined it, and then looked inside. There was a silver comb with a butterfly decoration in it. “It’s precious,” she told him. Unable to hide her joy, she hugged him again, this time more tightly than before. “I really like it.”

“I’m glad,” he remarked, caressing the back of her neck. “I had to make up for the one I couldn’t retrieve from Chiswick.”

“Nevermind about that. I like this one more,” she said, and raised her head so that he could kiss her.

Someone cleared their voice, and they separated. It wasn’t a secret that they were together… to most. But probably, not everyone had caught up.

“Does Will know about this?” Gabriel asked, but they could tell he wasn’t serious, just curious. And he was smiling.

“Come on, Gabriel. Leave them alone,” Cecily intervened, taking her husband’s arm to lead him away, winking at them. “They were just embracing.”

“He will know next week,” Jesse said, making Gabriel and Cecily stop in their tracks. “That I plan to spend the rest of my life with Lucie, however long that might be.”

Lucie opened her mouth in surprise, and looked at him. “Jesse, are you...”

“Yes. Are you?”

“Undoubtedly, yes!” she exclaimed, embracing him again.

“Did he just propose to her or it’s my impression?” Gabriel wondered out loud.

“He did. Yes, he sure did,” Cecily said, and dragged a blabbering Gabriel away, while Jesse basked in his own happiness with Lucie, and he felt alive.

Taglist (if you want to be added or removed, send me a PM): @princesslucinda @kit-12 @immortal-enemies @lucian-evander @esa-emery @danieldyers @blackthorn-trash @rinadragomir @fortunesandfables @itsdaughterofthemoon @silvenys@thomastair3 @livvyheronstairs @ holding-infinity-and-a-book @lovelaces @axoloteca @autumnangel20 @cordelia-cardale @lucie-blackthorns

[piccolini-cuscino]

Getting to the truth.

You’re Bruce’s assistant, but more than that, you’re his friend – his only friend. So, naturally, when he arrives at his own party injured and looking worse for wear, you’re worried. But there’s more than one truth-bomb in store for you!

Note: I had no idea how to finish this one, so it’s a bit garbage (you have no idea how much I wanted to change it up and have it basically be the fic version of Secretary, but alas, this is boring and smut free), but I’m so here for an emo millennial Bruce Wayne and a lil but of humour with my angst.

“Why am I organising a ball for all of Gotham, when Bruce won’t show up?” you sighed, turning to Alfred.

“Listen, I’m just the butler. How am I supposed to know what Master Bruce gets up to at night?”

“You live here, Alfred.”

Alfred leaned in close, peering at you from above his round spectacles. “And you’re his very beloved assistant.”

“Don’t remind me,” you huffed. “They’re only showing up for him, you know. They don’t care about the Wayne Foundation. Orphanages and education. He’s the richest man in Gotham, and no one’s seen him in years. The press would kill for a glimpse too.”

Alfred was fond of you. He always had been. He reckoned you brought a little bit of light to the place the second you walked into Wayne manor, fresh out of college. So, you knew his words were sincere when he spoke, with a gentle pat on the arm. “Well I can’t promise anything, but I’ll try.”

“Good enough for me,” you said, turning towards the door. “I’m going home to get ready. There’s a new Dior suit hanging in the wardrobe. Tell the boss to wear it, will you? And remind him to tuck his shirt in. That’s if he decides to show up.”

It was a night of your own making, and you watched it unfold from the lobby. Checking off names. Stopping drunken high society snobs from vomiting into 17th century vases. Directing everyone and their dog towards the bathrooms. But, for the most part, you found yourself alone, dancing with yourself in the cracks of pale moonlight that streamed like silver ribbons on to the sparkling checkerboard floor. No sign of your boss.

Until something caught you off guard. Quiet, shuffling footsteps over by the study at the foot of the staircase. A dark figure emerged from the shadows, hobbling, ascending. Step by step.

“Hey! You can’t go up there!” you called.

The figure moved faster, breaking into a pained jog.

With nothing else to do, you threw off your heels and sprinted after the intruder. Taking the stairs two at a time. They were heading for Bruce’s bedroom. No one, not even the various women he liked to entertain – not even you, as close as you were – went in there. He was a tremendously private man.

Finally, reaching out, you managed to grab their arm.

The figure flinched away in pain, then they turned to you.

“Bruce?” you gasped, feeling your heart race at the sight of him. His dark hair, unkempt and dishevelled; jet black rings around his eyes. His whole body seemed to tremble and heave. “What happened to you?”

“It’s nothing,” he said. Then he broke out into a witter. “Go back downstairs, I’ll be there in a minute, I’d hate to miss out on all of your hard work. I just need to–”

But you pulled him back, swiping your thumbs through the muck beneath his eyes. They were blue, but they always looked so dark. Like a pained void. “You need to clean yourself up. Let me help you.”

“You don’t need to see me like this. Go and enjoy your evening. I’m speaking to you as your boss. Please. Go.”

“Yes, Mr. Wayne.” You straightened up at his words and turned away. But before you reached the stairs, he called your name. If looks could kill, Bruce might have been a heap on the floor. But those eyes, again, dulled any hurt you felt about the distance between you.

“You look beautiful, by the way.”

You couldn’t look him in the eye. It was a battle even just to thank him politely for the compliment. And your legs shook all the way back to the lobby, through a strange mix of worry and giddiness.

You kept yourself to yourself for twenty minutes, alone with your panic, before Bruce returned. Gone was the darkness around his eyes, and his hair was neatly slicked back. He cut a strong, proud figure as he walked towards you in his suit. Even if he was sporting a limp and clutching his side with every step.

“I thought I told you to enjoy the party?” he smiled.

“Sorry, Bruce. There’s just no one to watch the door and show people where the…” You trailed off as he gently took your arm, leading you through into the reception hall. A warmth radiated from him, soothing but stoic. Nothing like the frantic panic from before.

“Help me get through this,” he muttered as the room fell silent. All eyes on you and Bruce.

The party quickly resumed; music played and the chatter of the guests around you echoed through the hall. Occasionally, beneficiaries of the Wayne Foundation would introduce themselves to your boss, or business bigwigs would try to bend his ear about trade deals and contracts and bureaucracy. But one thing was constant throughout the whole ordeal – Bruce’s hand never once left its place on your waist.

You could feel it there. The way his fingers would trail through the material of your dress as people talked and talked and talked to him. And the tension, when he balled his fingers up into a fist when faced with people that he just didn’t have time for. All those little cues forced the question from your lips. “Would you like to dance?”

You knew he didn’t dance. He hated it, in fact. But in that moment, the gratitude was evident on his small, weak smile. “I thought you’d never ask.”

Something was wrong, though. He flinched when your hand draped over his shoulder. His gait was unsteady. And no amount of makeup could disguise the bruise underneath his left eye. You kept glancing up at it as the two of you daintily spun circles around the room. And he kept glancing down at you, knowing now that you had noticed.

The song ended and Bruce’s hands dropped to his sides. “I think I’ve had enough for one night,” he said with another defeated smile. “People might begin to talk.”

“I think we need to talk, Bruce.”

His eyes darted over his surroundings before they returned to you; his lower lip pinched between his teeth.

“Please,” you pressed.

“Come with me.”

You and Bruce slumped into two cosy armchairs in his study, with a roaring fire, a coffee table and two glasses of scotch between you. “Don’t think Alfred and I haven’t noticed you sneaking off all the time.”

Bruce rolled his eyes and stared at the flames. “I’m your boss, remember?”

“You’re also my friend. And you also looked like crap earlier. Who did that to you?”

“It’s nothing,” he said, shifting in his chair, letting out an audible groan.

“They obviously hurt you.”

“I can take care of myself.”

“No you can’t. I think me being here says that much. C’mere,” you said, beckoning him.

“When you’re right you’re right.” Bruce might have been your boss, but he still knew better than to defy you; he slumped to his knees and shuffled over to you.

“Let me take a look at the damage.”

For the second time that night, Bruce recoiled from your touch as you gently pulled up his shirt, exposing a galaxy of bruises along his ribcage and a large, makeshift dressing on his lower abdomen. “Easy,” he said, swatting your hand away.

“How did you get that?” You peeled it away from his skin as gingerly as you could manage. Rather than concern, your voice grew cold. Serious, even. “What have you been doing?”

“I’m a little disappointed,” Bruce remarked through gritted teeth.

“How so?” you asked, running your fingertips over the slap-dash stitches that held together the vivid red gash.

“I thought this was something else.”

“Something’s eating you, though. And who did these stitches?”

“I did,” Bruce said, his jaw clenched.

“Can I redo them?”

Bruce was growing breathless by the time you finished inspecting his wound. “First aid kit’s in the top drawer of my desk,” he wheezed.

“Rubbing alcohol, too?”

“It’s all there.” Bruce wearily watched from the floor as your pale outline trailed its way across the study. His heart growing faster. “You really do look beautiful,” he said, his voice quiet and spiked with hope. He couldn’t meet your eyes when you looked up from rummaging in the drawer, so he stared down at the rug, finding interest there instead, with one hand clawing through his hair. “What was it that you wanted to ask me, by the way?”

“I really don’t like repeating myself, so cut the bullshit, Bruce.” You were so matter of fact, breezing back over to him and joining him on the floor. “I wanted to know where you go at night.”

“If I told you the truth, then you’d have me shipped off to Arkham.”

You poured some of the alcohol on to a cotton swab, keeping your eyes on Bruce. There was always something so defeated about him when the two of you were alone, that no one else ever got to see. And something always got in the way of him being honest with you. “Want to bet on that? How do you know I’m not already considering it?”

Bruce almost chuckled, but the sting from his side made him draw a sharp breath. He studied you out the corner of his eye. “Do you really… want to know?”

“It’d be nice to not have to spend my evenings with Alfred, who worries like a mother hen.”

Bruce choked out his next string of words in quick succession. “Can I tell you something first?”

“Before I cut you open?” you quipped.

“Preferably.”

Before Bruce reached the end of that word, you had already snipped through his self-administered stitches, revealing just how deep the wound actually was. Your feeble attempt at being jovial quickly switched to a reserved kind of worry.

“You’re the first person who’s ever really understood me. You never pry or say too much. You’re always there. And you have such a low tolerance for bullshit. You don’t coddle or bow down because I’m Bruce Wayne. Plus it’s nice to be around someone who isn’t in their sixties or who knew my father…”

You hummed in acknowledgement, neatly weaving the wire through Bruce’s skin. Too focused on the job at hand to really get what he meant. Until his fingertips brushed over your jawline.

“You’re my only friend in this godforsaken world.”

“Besides Alfred,” the pair of you said in unison.

Biting back a fit of laughter, you stroked his cheek and he keened, like an animal craving affection. “What are you trying to say, Bruce?”

Every fibre of Bruce’s being tensed with renewed panic and a tinge of awkwardness. His wide eyes searched for something, anything, to focus on, as long as it wasn’t you. “I’m…I guess what I’m trying to say is that… I’m–“

With a mental fuck it, you threw caution to the wind. You couldn’t stand hearing him bumble on like this. Closing the gap, your lips crashed on to his. He tasted like scotch and cigars, and this much of him was never going to be enough for you. Just when your hands tangled through his hair, Bruce pulled away.

“I’m the Batman.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Seriously?”

Bruce nodded.

“I would’ve settled for ‘I’m in love with you’ you know.”

He sighed, sitting back so casually now that the difficult part was over. “That, too.”

“You can’t lie to me anymore, you know that, don’t you?”

He nodded again.

“So,” you said, glancing around the study, “which bookcase is actually a revolving door?”

“Huh?” Bruce asked, pulling down his shirt.

“Secret lair… a bat cave, if you will.”

“Oh,” he said with a chuckle. Then he pointed towards the bookcase behind you. “It’s that one. Pull out Ulysses and it’ll… spin right round. Be careful not to let the bats out, though. They’re kind of like my pets.”

“Fuck you, Bruce.”

“I can show you if you want?” he said, hopefully, as he scrambled to his feet.

“I’ll settle for another kiss. And you getting some rest.”

“You’re taking this surprisingly well,” he said, wrapping his arms around your waist.

“What, the bat part or the other part?”

Bruce chuckled and planted a small, soft kiss to your forehead. “Both.”

“I had my suspicions. One thing’s for sure though…”

“What?”

“You might need a few pointers with your eyeliner.”

[mooncademia]

Neko

PAIRING ~ Aizawa x reader

REQUEST ~ Anon: Hello Could you write a scenario where aizawa find out his girlfriend has a 2yo daughter and when they meet they get along very well :)) sorry if it's too specific😅

GENRE ~ fluff!

SUMMARY ~ After introducing Aizawa to your daughter, you were relieved to know that not only was he okay with it, but also on how well the two  bonded. And thankfully…no jelly packs were administered to your child.

WORD COUNT ~ 2.0k

A/N ~ Tysm for requesting anon!! Tumblr is acting up and my post are aren’t showing successfully. I apologize for this, but I hope you enjoy 💗 

*Knock knock!*

“Coming!” You exclaimed as you made your way from your room to the entrance door.

It was early in the afternoon and you just got changed into a dress. Today being a weekend, you were surprised to see your boyfriend, Aizawa Shouta, standing in front of your doorway during this unprecedented time.

“Shouta?” You wondered aloud, gesturing him to come in with a wave of your hand.

You noticed his casual attire: long black sleeved shirt rolled up to his elbows and black pants, paired with the usual boots he always wore. It was different seeing him without his hero costume and you couldn’t help but blush at his strong physique and how defined his arms look from his rolled-up sleeves.

“Hey,” He said with a small grin. “I just wanted to return the stuff that I borrowed a few days ago.” He held up a brown paper bag and you gladly accepted it with a smile. But before you thank him, another loud voice interrupted:

“MUM!!!!!”

A young girl pounced forward to hug your thigh while handing you a piece of paper excitingly with a wide, youthful smile.

You gasped lightly as you saw the drawing your daughter drew. “Wow! Very nice, Luna,” you said appreciatively with a nod as you stared at the doodle of cats on the paper before returning it back to her, mirroring her happy smile.

Luna beamed happily as she immediately trotted back to the living room to continue with her doodles, glancing at Aizawa for a few seconds before putting her attention back to her art.

“You have a daughter?” Aizawa asked with an eyebrow raised as you gestured him to the living room to sit on the couch.

Despite the fact that you and Aizawa haven’t been dating very long, you knew you had to let Aizawa know about your daughter sooner or later. However, you couldn’t help but question what his reaction will be.

Will he get mad that I didn’t tell him sooner?

Oh gosh, maybe he’ll break up with me….

Your heart began to thump faster and worried swirled in your stomach.

You took a deep breath and looked at him. “Yes. Her name is Luna. she’s 2 years old, and she loves cats.” Your lips twitched a small smile as you glanced at Luna doodling her cats, but your eyebrows slightly crossed when you continued. “Aizawa, I’m so sorry if I didn’t tell you sooner, I-“

You stopped mid-sentence when you saw Aizawa shook his head and grabbed your hand, giving it a little squeeze of comfort.

“Don’t worry about it, I don’t mind. Seriously.” He said reassuringly, glancing at Luna who was only a few feet away, doodling purple cats to her pure heart’s content. He smiled a tiny bit at Luna and her god-tier artwork of purple cats and seeing that made you love him even more.

The look of your eyes softened immediately and you wanted to tell Aizawa everything about Luna, your story, and so much more. Aizawa knew it too, seeing you fold your lips, trying not to swell up too much from relief and gratitude.

God, you were so lucky to have him.

“Thank you,” you said, squeezing his hand back. You opened your mouth to say something more until a phone rang loudly from the kitchen.  

You mumbled a small “excuse me” as you headed towards the kitchen and Aizawa stared at Luna’s artwork of cats when you were gone.

“Do you like cats?” Luna asked him in a high-pitch tone when she noticed him staring at her.  She lifted her cute head up and her wide eyes glistened.

“Very much actually,” Aizawa replied.

Under normal circumstances, a simple ‘yes’ would be enough for his answer, but something about Luna’s youthful and energetic spirit made him spilled out the truth further than he admitted. It was just like whenever he was with you. You always managed to break into Aizawa’s shell, letting him to unconsciously and comfortably share more about himself and his life even though he would normally never tell anyone about his feelings and all. And that didn’t bother him because he trusted you deeply.

But Aizawa was glad you were on the phone because if you were in earshot distance, you would probably be teasing him to death about his cute confession.

Luna got up and sat right next to him, carrying her paper and purple crayon and resting it on Aizawa’s lap abruptly.

“Draw me a cat, please,” Luna said to him.

Well, Aizawa definitely couldn’t say no right then and there. And he knew it from his embarrassing stories he has had with children, but let’s not bring that up.

Aizawa nodded silently, picking up the crayon and paper and leaning towards the table in front of him to draw a cat. And to be perfectly transparent: this wasn’t his first time doing this.

“OOOOOOO!!!” Luna yelped as she clapped her hands excitingly, eyes not tearing a second away from the drawing.

Aizawa handed the paper back to her when he was done. A furry little cat in purple that would probably make cat-haters rethink their beliefs. Luna held it up high, admiring the work as if it was from Picasso himself. “You are really really good. Can I keep this?” She asked in a cute tone.

Aizawa smiled at her and nodded.

“I like you a lot because you can draw really good cats,” Luna added appreciatively to Aizawa with a strong, powerful, child-like beam.

“Thank you,” Aizawa replied, his lips inevitably tugging upwards as he felt a sense of comfort and appreciation from the child. “We both like cats, huh?”

Luna nodded aggressively. “Yup!! Can you visit us more so you can teach me how to draw cats this well?”

“Only if your mother lets me.”

Luna curled her hands to a fist and pouted strongly. “I’ll tell her then!!”

Aizawa let out a laugh as he observed Luna continuing to doodle more cats, a few dogs and elephants here and there, and of course, more cats.

As you walked back to the living room, Aizawa noticed the slight crease in your eyebrows as you stared at your phone on your hand, as if quizzically thinking about something.  

“What’s wrong?” He asked, a tone of concern lacing through his voice.

You bit your lip. “That was my manager. Apparently, something happened at work and they need me to come over to fix some things,” you said. Aizawa nodded at you to continue.

“It’s just that, today being a weekend, I promised Luna I would take her to the park this afternoon but my manager said I can’t miss out on this since it’s quite urgent.”

“I’ll take her.”

Your eyes widened at your boyfriend’s statement. Sure, you haven’t dated Aizawa very long but you knew him well enough that children plus him…well…it didn’t quite match up in your head.

“You and Luna?” You asked in surprise.

Aizawa laughed. “Of course me and Luna. It’s okay, Y/N. You go do what you have to do at work, and I’ll take her to the park this afternoon.

“Shouta I-“

“Trust me,” he said confidently. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure she’s safe.”

You smile a bit at your boyfriend. “I know she’ll be safe in your hands…but…I mean, you and kids?” You said teasingly with a hand on your hips. “You sure you can handle that?”

Aizawa rolled his eyes as he got up and tucked a piece of hair behind your ear, making you internally melt from his touch immediately. “Wow, you really are doubting me, huh?” He said back in a teasing tone, making you laugh at his remark.

“Fine,” you said, leaning forward to give him a peck on his cheek. Aizawa blushed furiously at your move. “I think I’ll be back before dinner, but if the situation gets resolved early, I’ll be back soon.”

“Don’t worry, Y/N. I’ll make sure she is safe and having fun.” Aizawa reassured you again as you scurried across the room to grab your bag and coat, telling Luna that you will be out for a while. Luna nodded in agreement and mentioned that she liked Aizawa because of the cat portrait he drew for her.

You smiled at your boyfriend. “I trust you, Shouta,” you said as you turned the doorknob to head out. You weren’t sure how Aizawa was going to take care of a child for the whole day, but your gut instinct told you that it’ll be okay. And from the look of his eyes, you also knew that he was completely comfortable with it as well.

“Oh!” You said, remembering something that just popped into your mind. You looked at your boyfriend with a smile. “Just one more thing: please don’t feed Luna your jelly packs.”  

———

“And then we saw these BIG, big birds and they were flying so fast, and then he pushed me on the swings and I went up so high, Mum! I think I touched the sky!!! And then we fed some cats in the neighborhood and we stopped by to eat ice cream-“

“Ice cream? Since when could you eat ice cream?” You said as you stroked Luna’s hair and glanced at Aizawa who was trying to hide a sheepish grin.

“Since today?” Luna said, shining her bright eyes at you. “The strawberry one was so good!”

“You ate more than one?” You cut in again as you shot your boyfriend another look.

“Now, Luna,” Aizawa said rather quickly, dodging your glare. “Let’s just keep the ice cream treat between the two of us, okay?”

“I can’t believe my daughter is hiding secrets from me already…” you mumbled under your breath making Aizawa laugh. Luna nodded excitingly at him in agreement before plunging out to pet a cat strolling on the side walk.

The three of you were in the neighborhood and you and Luna were about to walk back home.

“You two had a lot of fun, huh?” You pulled Aizawa forward, giving him a kiss and a warm hug.

“Thank you, ” you whispered as you rested your head on his shoulder.

Aizawa patted your head gently. “You’re welcome. I love hanging out with her. She’s really fun, you know?”  

You laughed as you pulled away. “I can tell.”

As you finished telling Aizawa what happened at work, evening came and the two of you said your goodbyes. Luna gave Aizawa a big ol’ hug and Aizawa knelt down to pat her cute head and whispered something about cats that made Luna giggled with excitement.

Seeing the two of them bond so well made you so happy, but later you had to deal with Luna’s aggressiveness as she continued to complain and pout when Aizawa headed back home.

“When can I see him again?” Luna asked tugging your hand.

You looked down and smiled patiently. “Very soon.”

———

The next morning, there was a package resting on your doorstep with a tag that said:

To: Luna

From: Aizawa

You smiled curiously as you picked up the package. What is this?

You carried the box inside and carefully opened with your scissors. You gasped immediately when you saw what was inside.

Inside laid a bright cat sweater with the words: GENKRI NEKO plastered on it.

With a too-cute cat head on the front and glittery colors painted all over, you knew immediately that Luna would love it.

A note dropped when you unfolded the swearer and you picked it up to read it.

Dear Y/N,

Here is a cat sweater for you to give to Luna.

Since she loves cats, I thought this will be perfect for her.

If you need someone to look after her, please let me know, I would love to spend more time with her.

- Aizawa Shouta

You shook your head and smiled as you folded the letter back up and stared at the cat sweater. You internally swore that it was Aizawa’s when he was a child from the “used-up” material that you felt and the wrinkled marks of the letters.

But despite it being somewhat old, you could feel the intense warmth and love radiating from the sweater.

And to you and Luna...that was completely enough.

[wefoundloveunderthelight]

Nowhere to Run by  GleefullyCaptainSwan

Read on AO3: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8

Or on FF

Tagging: @teamhook @kmomof4 @stahlop @lfh1226-linda @ilovemesomekillianjones @itsfabianadocarmo @mariakov81 @qualitycoffeethings @zaharadessert @jonesfandomfanatic @jrob64 @natascha-ronin @tiganasummertree @xarandomdreamx

Chapter 8: The Plan

Emma woke as the sunlight reached her face. She snuggled down into her blankets, enjoying the warmth they provided to her. The blankets were plush and soft against her skin, something she did not have the luxury of having the last ten years. Henry and Emma had been afforded a single woolen blanket that they shared on their old mattress in the basement or whatever room he would trap them in for the moment. Many times, in the winter, they had huddled together using her body to keep her son warm.

Looking over she watched with gratitude as Henry was curled into the comforter, Rogers nuzzling against his chest, a smile on the boy’s face.

She heard a noise echoing through the house, the clang of metal in the distance. She sat up, yawning before stretching her feet to the floor and wandering into the bathroom. She found a brush in the bottom drawer, one she recognized as hers, and ran the bristles through her hair. Killian had left two new toothbrushes on the sink for her and Henry.

When she finished getting ready, she slipped quietly out of the room, Rogers following at her heels. She found Killian in the kitchen, hunched over the stove while he stirred a pan of scrambled eggs. He was wearing a pair of sweatpants, and nothing else. Emma stood in the door frame, admiring the man in front of her, she had forgotten what it was like to desire someone.

She had determined that even ten years later, he was still the most gorgeous man she had ever laid eyes on. His body had changed in the years since she had been with him, but he had stayed in excellent shape, his back was firm and taut, even though she could tell he had gained weight since they were together, but it made him even more attractive to her. By the time she realized her gaze was lingering over his firm backside, Rogers betrayed her by drawing his attention toward her.

“Morning, Emma. Hope I didn’t wake you. I thought you and Henry might want some breakfast before we met with David.”

He turned, leaning against the stove, crossing his arms in front of his chest. She mentally reminded herself to keep her eyes on his face, not to trail down his body or spend time wondering if he still went commando when wearing sweatpants.

“Emma?”

She flinched, realizing she had been stuck in her head, staring at him. “Sorry, still sleepy.” She laughed. “Um, breakfast sounds great. I’ll get Henry up.”

She retreated quickly to the bedroom, waking her son to ensure they had time to eat and make it to the station before 8am.

By the time they pulled up to the station, they were ten minutes late, and had missed multiple calls from David who was clearly concerned about Killian making good on his promise to return Emma first thing in the morning.

“Sorry, I’m not used to getting a kid out the door in enough time to get across town.” Killian replied honestly as Robin glared at him as soon as they reached his desk.

“Hello again, Emma.” Robin smiled, looking over at Killian with concern. “Captain has a guest in his office, he wants to see you both. I can watch Master Henry.”

Emma followed Killian nervously through the building toward the Captain’s office. The blinds were closed, and they knocked before entering the room. When Emma stepped inside, she recognized the woman sitting across from David at his desk. She had met her twice in the hospital after more than one brutal attack she had received from Neal.

“Jones, Emma. This is Mary Margaret; she works over at Harbor View Medical Center.”

The woman looked up and stared at Emma. “I remember you.” She said softly.

“I remember you too, Emma. I’m so happy to finally see you again.” The woman stood from her seat.

“Emma, we would like to be able to use your hospital records as evidence.” David declared.

“I didn’t use my real name.” She said with a frown.

“I actually flagged them after trying to report your injuries, I figured it wasn’t your real name and you were always gone before I could alert security, but I hoped that one day I would see you again. Your injuries were especially memorable, and no one should have to continue to live with that.”

Emma glanced at Killian nervously, swallowing before speaking. “Can I…can I talk to you privately?”

Mary Margaret looked at David, and he nodded, “We’ll just be outside. Take your time.”

Killian lightly grazed her shoulder and she turned toward him with a nod, offering him a shy smile before he followed David out the door.

“How are you doing, Emma?” The woman asked taking a seat and offering her a chair beside her.

“I just wanted to thank you for everything you did for me in the past. I know you tried to help, and I wasn’t very cooperative.”

“Emma, you did what you had to do to survive. No one faults you for that.”

“I had to protect my son. Neal never let him come with me to the hospital. He always kept us separate so that I wouldn’t do anything.”

“That must have been terrifying.” She said softly, reaching out to take her hand. “How are you coping with being away from him?”

“I’m…” She sighed, guilt overcoming her as she turned her eyes to the floor. “I feel like I’ve done something wrong. By leaving him. How fucked up is that?”

“Emma, you were with this man for ten years. He conditioned you to be afraid of him, to want to please him. It’s natural to be scared or feel that you’ve disappointed him in some way.”

“How long am I going to be like this?”

“I can’t answer that unfortunately, I can recommend you a good therapist. Dr. Hopper is the best around.”

“Therapists are for weak people.” She grunted.

“Therapy is to help you talk about how you’re feeling and the way those feelings cause you to interact with others. It will help you resolve what happened to you. It doesn’t make you weak. You are a very strong woman to have withstood the violence and emotional abuse you suffered.”

“Will I always be afraid of being close to another person?”

“How do you mean?”

“Killian, he’s my…my husband.” The woman looked confused for a moment before the realization of her words were met with understanding.

“I’m sorry, Captain Nolan didn’t tell me you were married.”

“It was complicated.” She said with a light snort. “But now, every time he touches me, I flinch.”

“It’s going to take time for you to react normally. The important part is for you to know that you are in a safe environment. He’ll need to be patient, take things slow. Try the little things until you feel like you are ready to move to the next thing. Start with something small, like holding his hand, or a hug. It may be easier if you initiate contact with others for a while, until you get used to someone else showing you affection. But there is no right or wrong way to heal, Emma. Neal broke your self-esteem, took away your ability to trust and violated your will to choose, only you can take back what he stole from you.”

She smiled at her, looking down at her hands, feeling comforted by another person.

“I’ll leave Dr. Hopper’s card with David.”

“Thank you for talking to me. I don’t know what to say to Captain Nolan or Killian.”

“They both seem to care a great deal about you, I have a feeling they will let you take all the time you need to come to them.” She paused. “How is Henry handling things?”

“I’m not sure. He doesn’t trust a lot of people. He seems to like Killian, but I know this isn’t easy on him.”

“Dr. Hopper sees kids too; it might be a good idea for both of you to have someone else to talk to.”

“Thank you, I will look into it.”

She was happy to have had the opportunity to speak to the woman. Not that she felt better, it was just nice to know that what she was experiencing was normal behavior. Emma laughed to herself, it wasn’t like anything going on around her was normal.

When they stepped out of the room, David and Killian were huddled in the corner with Robin. A man and woman, she thought were named Belle and Will who had been their back up the night they got Henry out of the house was sitting with her son, who was currently laughing loudly at something the man had said to them.

Neal’s picture was displayed on the wall at the back of the room, her own photo was below it, she cringed when she realized that it pointed toward Officer Perry. She made her way to the men in the corner, taking note of the way that Killian stared at her with concern in his eyes as she approached.

“So, what’s the plan?” She said shyly as she approached.

David turned around, “Ah you’re done, let me see Mary Margaret out, Killian and Robin can fill you in.”

“We’re gonna have you call Neal from a phone in the building, tell him that you got picked up while you were shopping. Just tell him that the officer told you they have Henry. It’s going to be really important for him to believe you are desperate to get him back.”

Emma nodded. “Ok, he’ll believe all that, he’s not exactly smart. But how is that going to get him to you?”

Robin pointed at the map on the wall. “We want you to tell him to pick you up on the docks, here.” He said as he pointed toward the map. “Will he come get you? Or will he expect you to come to him?”

“I’ll tell him I need him, that always gets him to do what I want.”

Killian’s jaw tensed beside her but he nodded his head. “Ok then we take you to the docks. He shows up, we take him down.”

David walked up behind them. “And she needs to wear a wire, we want to get him to talk about the bank job. Get him to say that he killed Officer Perry.”

“No way, too dangerous, he���s not an idiot. He’ll check her for a wire.” Killian argued.

“He’s right, Neal doesn’t trust anyone and if he knows I’ve been with the cops for a whole day without contacting him, he’ll suspect something.” She added.

“That’s the conditions. She wears a wire, or they want her back in lock up.”

“That’s a fucking death sentence.” Killian screamed and she jumped. “There is no way we do this. I’m not sending her out there so he can fucking kill her.”

“We’ll be safe, he won’t find the wire. I get that this is risky, so it’s Emma’s call.” David looked up at her apologetically.

She turned toward Killian, reaching out and taking his hand in hers. “If we don’t get Neal off the streets, he’s a danger to all of us. He won’t stop until he’s killed you, me, and Henry. I have to protect him.”

“Emma…” He choked out, his thumb caressing the top of her knuckles.

“I can do this, and I know you’ll be there to back me up.”

He ran his hand through his hair, an exasperated groan leaving his throat. “Fine, but if things go wrong, I’m putting a bullet in his head.”

“Don’t make me pull you off this, Jones. I need you thinking straight.” David warned.

“He’ll be fine.” Robin added, stepping up to tap him on the shoulder and sending him a warning glance.

“Ok let’s make the call.”

Emma felt her nerves rising as they dialed the phone, Killian listening on another line from his desk.

“Hello?”

“Neal, it’s Emma.”

“Where the fuck have you been, bitch?” He growled into the receiver.

“I got picked up from the grocery store, some dumb cop recognized my face from the robbery footage they’ve been blasting all over the tv.” Her heart was pounding in her chest. “Neal, they took Henry.”

“Who has Henry?”

“The cops, when they arrested me they told me they have him, how did that happen, you said he would be safe at the house.”

“Where is he?”

“They didn’t tell me, they just released me.”

“What do you mean they released you?”

“The video isn’t clear, they don’t have the gun, I told you I dumped it.”

“That’s my good girl.” He cooed and Emma wretched, closing her eyes. When she opened them, she recognized the look of anger shading Killian’s face from the desk on the other side of the room.

“I need you to come get me, I’m heading out of here right away, you told me to never stay near a station, so I’m going to the dock, Pier 50 where all that construction is going on.”

“Ok give me a couple hours. I want to make sure you weren’t followed. If you see any signs of trouble, you call me back ok? We’ll get Henry back. Everything will turn out exactly how it’s supposed to be, you’ll see sweetheart.”

“Ok I’ll see you then.”

“Emma…” She could hear the warning in the throaty growl, she tried to ignore it. “Baby I want to hear you say it.”

She looked up nervously, her face red with anger. Not here, not now. “I’ll say it when I see you.”

“Goddamn Emma, say it.”

She flinched as he raised his voice. “I love you.” She said in a hoarse whisper. Tears sliding down her cheek as the phone left her ear. She could barely hear his voice as she put the phone on the receiver, the words that made her feel dirty, worthless, and terrified.

“I love you too, baby.”

She dropped down into the chair behind her, tears falling slowly into her lap. “Mom, it’s gonna be ok.”

She reached out and pulled Henry into her lap, hugging him for dear life. She needed Neal to pay for everything he had done to them.

“You did good, Emma.” Killian’s voice was soft as he approached her. “Let’s get you ready.”

Henry looked up at her. “You can do this Mom. I believe in you.”

She stood and walked with the men toward the Captain’s office to set her up with a wire. Once the door closed David approached her, holding the wire in his hands.

“Cap, perhaps we should have Belle do this?” He glanced at Emma and then back at David who paused.

“Yeah good idea, I’ll go get her.”

Once they were alone, Killian turned toward her. “Are you alright, love?”

“I will be once this is all over. Thanks for, um…suggesting Belle.”

“Figured that might be a bit more comfortable for you.”

The door opened and Belle walked in, Killian nodded to her, passing the bundle of wires into her hand. “Make sure a pat down won’t find them.” He turned back to Emma, smiled, and left the room.

“So, tell me, this Neal, is he a nervous man, distrustful? Do you think he’ll try and search you?”

“He’ll definitely check my shirt. He’s not an idiot, but he’s not the most brilliant criminal either.”

“Ok so we’ll go with the legs.” Emma nodded and turned around, unbuckling her jeans, and pulling them down her legs. “Ok stand over here.” She pointed in front of her, and Emma closed her eyes, sighed, and then opened them with a new resolve.

“Those are much slimmer than I remember.” She remarked, the mic pack and wires that didn’t resemble the clunky ones they practiced with in the police academy.

“It’s been ten years dear; a lot has changed.” She said apologetically. “Ok, I’m gonna touch your leg. I’m going to try and run this up the inside of your thigh, I’m going to keep the mic pack low on your hip. That way if he searches you, he’s most likely to go for the small of your back.”

“Ok.”

“I met you once before, do you remember that?” Emma looked at the girl, trying to remember her. “It was really quick; you were graduating when I started the academy. You know people talked about you all the time. First female to have the highest score on the shooting range. You beat all the guys in your class.”

Emma laughed, it seemed so long ago that she earned her place among the men in her ranks. She knew she was a good shot, better than anyone else in her class, but proving it had meant more to her than she had realized.

“You were a hero to all us women that came after you. Only female in your class.” Belle continued.

“It wasn’t easy, but I’m sure you know that. Looks like you made your own way, Detective.”

“Damn straight.” She patted her leg. “All done.”

Emma looked down at the wire, traveling up her leg and onto her hip. “Thanks.”

“Just remember, you’re stronger than him.” She patted her on the shoulder and walked out the door, “I’ll get the Captain.”

The ride to the docks made her feel like she was stuck in a wind tunnel, everything was spinning by her at 60 mph, but she was frozen in place. The car stopped moving, and both Killian and Robin turned to face her.

“Ok Emma, you’re going to walk to the end of the pier, then wait. I’ll be stationed behind the row of shipping containers on the right, Robin will be on the left. Belle and Will are flanking the entrance. As soon as Neal is on the way, we’ll know it. Just get him to come in, get him to say whatever you can and then we’ll get you out of there.”

“Ok.”

They opened the door and Emma nervously stepped onto the pier. Killian leaned against the car, watching her. Emma nervously approached him, turning around to lean against the door. “Don’t get jumpy and shoot over my shoulder.” She teased.

“Hey that only happened once.”

“What if he doesn’t show up? What if he does show up but he finds the wire? What if…”

“Emma, nothing ever goes the way it’s planned. If something goes wrong, I’ll figure it out.”

Emma leaned against his shoulder, sliding her hand down, her fingers tentatively reaching out and slipping into his. “I know you will, you’ve got my back.”