#I'm freshly in my twenties and have nothing to show for it.

[womanfredvonkarma]

.

[steddieasitgoes]

marshmallows roasting on an open fire

Happy @steddiemas to everyone who's celebrating/participating! I'm pulling double duty with this one, fulfilling the prompt "fireplace" and my prompt for @thefreakandthehair Spicy Six -ber Month Challenge which was: “There’s only one right way to roast a marshmallow, and it’s to light it on fire.” Tags: Established Relationship, Eddie Munson Is A Menace, Blizzards, Idiots In Love wc: 1225 | Rated: T read on ao3 | ao3 collection

“I can’t believe you invited me over here without having dessert for me,” Eddie groans, clutching his stomach. It doesn’t matter that he had to unbutton his pants twenty minutes ago to make room for his seventh slice of pizza; his stomach still growls angrily as if it's been starved for weeks. 

Steve rolls his eyes, shaking his head as he plucks a fallen pepperoni from the empty pizza box. “Don’t blame this on me. You’re the one who showed up on my doorstep unannounced with pizza and no dessert in the middle of a blizzard.” 

As if on cue, the wind howls outside, whipping around the freshly fallen snow into mini tornados that crash into the house's many windows. The power went out hours ago, plunging the too-big house into total darkness until Steve managed to find the flashlight Dustin got him for Christmas last year. When Eddie showed up, he managed to get the stubborn fireplace Steve was convinced was just for show lit, saving them both from hypothermia. 

Since then, they’ve been lounging on the floor of Steve’s living room, basking in the warmth of the fire and slowly shedding layers of dusty blankets Steve found in the linen closet. It’s not how Steve planned to spend the day, but he’s not complaining either. It’s unlikely he would have survived Hawkins's first blizzard in a decade by himself. 

He could do without Eddie’s nonstop bemoaning about dessert, though. 

“How is a man supposed to live without a sweet treat?” Eddie whines, throwing his hand over his face like an overdramatic housewife on those soaps El is obsessed with. 

“You’re worse than Henderson, dude.” 

Eddie scoffs, flipping Steve off immediately. “I take great offense to that. Henderson is a grade-A whiner with a know-it-all-tone. I am merely pointing out an injustice that has befallen us here in this humble abode you begrudgingly call home.” 

“Good to know your lack of dessert doesn’t affect your theatrics.” Steve chucks one of his mom’s ugly ass throw pillows in Eddie’s direction, but it dips at the last second, landing squarely in Eddie’s lap instead of decking him in the face as he intended. 

“Come on,” Eddie whines again. “I know you have a mean sweet tooth, too. Buckley told me all about your frequent trips to the freezer at Scoops. Tell me, did the cookie dough gallon really get delivered empty, or did you eat it all in one shift, big boy?” 

Steve’s face reddens, and it, unfortunately, has nothing to do with the fire burning a few feet in front of him. “I’m going to kill her.” 

Eddie cackles and slowly pushes himself up from the floor. His unbuttoned pants fall slightly without his belt and button to secure them around his thin frame, but he pays them no mind, already tripping his way into the kitchen with Steve’s flashlight. 

“What are you doing?” Steve asks, trying his best to untangle himself from the mess of blankets he’s still cocooned in. 

“There has to be something in this big ass kitchen that’ll satisfy my sweet tooth.”

“Am I not sweet enough for you, darling” Steve teases, sneaking his arms around Eddie’s bloated stomach. He hooks his head over Eddie’s shoulder, tilting his head away enough to bat his eyelashes in a way he knows drives Eddie wild. 

Like clockwork, Eddie makes a strangled sound before shrugging Steve off of him. “Did you forget the last time you played this game with me?” He doesn’t wait for Steve to respond and instead shoves his head into the walk-in pantry. 

“I had your teeth marks on my ass for weeks!” 

“Yeah, and you’re lucky it was just your ass, baby,” Eddie says, words sounding distant as he shoves himself further into the pantry. 

The rustling of bags has nothing on the howling wind outside, definitely not after there’s a clatter of bins that follow. Eddie swears, but Steve doesn’t dare interfere. He’s learned not to interrupt his boyfriend when he’s on some sort of mission — the bruise on his hips is the only reminder he needs. 

There’s another cacophony of falling baskets and swears before Eddie emerges with half a bag of marshmallows, a sleeve of what appears to be graham crackers, and one Hershey bar that Eddie’s already taking a bite out of. 

Eddie thrusts them over his head in victory as he kicks the door shut behind him. “Victory is ours, Sir Stevery, fore I have secured us the sweetest of provisions.” 

“And tell me, Eds, how are you going to make S’mores in the middle of a blizzard? We don’t have a bonfire!” 

Eddie tsks, shaking his head fondly as he comes to pats Steve's shoulder. “Oh silly, Stevie, you don’t need a bonfire for S’mores. That’s just something the government wants you to think. We have a fire right there!” 

Steve follows Eddie’s extended finger to the lit fireplace, still burning its way through the handful of logs Eddie had arranged hours ago. And okay, yes, technically, they do have fire, but Steve doesn’t think they should go around sticking marshmallows into the damn thing, especially when they don’t have wood skewers for the marshmallows to go on. 

There’s no time to voice his concern, though, because Eddie races toward the fireplace with a marshmallow skewered on a serving fork he must have found in the depths of the pantry. 

“Be careful!” Steve shouts as Eddie thrusts the marshmallow into the flame without a care in the world, as if he’s not holding a metal fucking fork that’s not meant to be used for roasting marshmallows. Reluctantly, he settles on his knees beside Eddie and runs a hand through his hair. “Maybe you shouldn’t stick it in all the way.” 

“Never heard that before,” Eddie jokes before waving off his boyfriend’s fretting as he peels his eyes away from the toasting snack and looks at Steve pointedly. “There’s only one right way to roast a marshmallow, and it’s to light it on fire.” Eddie shoves the marshmallow deeper into the flame, rotating it slowly, ensuring the entire thing is engulfed. 

“Yeah, maybe when you’re outside!” Steve snarks, trying his best to tug Eddie’s arm and the fork free from the growing inferno. “You’re cooking that thing in a fireplace in my house!” 

“Stop being such a drama king, it’s fine! See!” Eddie says, yanking the marshmallow free. 

It’s not fine. 

It’s the complete opposite of fine, actually. 

The marshmallow is its own inferno, now, growing bigger despite Eddie trying to blow it out. His efforts only make things worse, sending embers around the room and setting the frayed edges of one of the dusty old blankets on fire. 

“Jesus H. Christ!” Eddie shouts, shoving the flaming marshmallow into the ash bucket before running to help Steve stomp out the growing flame on the blanket.

Burnt socks, an ash-stricken carpet, and a few minutes later, they manage to get everything under control, and when they do, they collapse onto the floor in a panting, exhausted heap.

“So, that was a bad idea.” 

“You think?” Steve asks before immediately doubling over in laughter. “I can’t believe your sweet tooth almost set the house on fire!” 

Eddie pouts before his lips twitch into a mischievous grin. “Guess you’ll have to be my sweet treat after all.” 

[spicywhenspeaking]

If I’m There Chapter: Twenty-Four

read from part one here!

summary: Noah and Natalie met in high school and developed a relationship through their love of music and art. Falling in love, innocent and young, they think nothing can keep them apart. However, sometimes in the pursuit of your dreams the things we love the most get left behind.

this is a complete work of fiction, some characters while based on real people are totally made up. :)

Taglist: @lma1986 @cookiesupplier @notingridslurkaccount @blackveilomens@thisbicc @laurpartyprogram @concretenoah@thebadchic @madomens@samanthasgone @myownthoughts12@missduffsblog@jilliemiw86 @malerieee @hi-fancy-seeing-you-here @badomenslrh @robabankfuckmickeymouse

(You're waiting for the)

Day to come when thеy will notice

(It is time to wake up now)

Fighting battlеs at your lowest

(Your fire is dying out)

Dragging every step forward

But it won't happen again

And I'm not gonna pretend

(I don't want the money)

(Want the money)

Noah sent Erin a CD with a playlist of their songs he hoped she would like. She has been blaring it loudly for days since she opened the package. She’s been listening to it nonstop and now sings along to the lyrics.

Can't say I'm mad, this is entertainment

But I want what they have and I'm gonna take it

And I'm so sorry if I'm cynical

My water's full of chemicals

I don't know what I'm made of anymore

“Sweetie! Lunch is ready!” I call out to her over the sound of the music as I place the plate I made for her, buttered noodles with grilled chicken with roasted broccoli and fresh fruit. 

Erin races down the stairs humming along to one of the songs she’s been listening to. 

“Yum! Thanks, Mom!” she says, plopping down to dig into her pasta. I sit alongside her and eat my plate. 

“So Noah said he will be back in less than a week, we will get a few days to hang out before you go to art camp,” I mention softly and she smiles brightly. “I’m excited to see him again, we should take him to the skating rink where Ashley had her birthday party, Oh! Oh! And we have to have a game night before I go to camp.” she exclaims excitedly. I laugh and nod, “Of course honey, we will have to ask him when he gets into town.” Her smile continues to grow as we talk and I am happy to see her so excited about spending more time with Noah. She talked to me after one of her last therapy sessions and the weight of guilt has lessened tremendously after our conversation. Her little heart is full of so much love. In the future, her feelings may change and she may have more questions or even anger and I am prepared to help her with those feelings when they arise. 

After lunch, I drop Erin off at Gwen’s apartment in her senior center to spend some time with her while I head to work for a few appointments I have set up. Gwen is freshly 75 and loving life in her new senior apartment complex and loves having Erin over to hang out. She welcomes us with big hugs and the smell of freshly baked cookies. “My girls, I’m so happy to see you both!” she greets us warmly. “Gweny! Omg, I have so much to talk to you about! Noah sent me some music and it’s awesome! I have to show you some.” Erin gushes to Gwen as she walks into the living room to set her backpack down. “Oh and I brought some paints so we can do some crafts, I wanted to paint the flowers you have on your balcony.” 

Gwen with her arm slung delicately around my shoulder laughs softly, “You made the sweetest girl in the world, I hope you know how much of that comes from you.”  I rest my head against hers and sigh contently. “Thank you, Gwen, I owe so much of her to you. You have helped so much when I moved and have been there for everything in her life. I’m so grateful for you.” I tell her as Erin runs around Gwens’ new apartment. “Well, I need to head out for my appointments. Hey, little one! I gotta go.” I call over to Erin and she runs to give me a quick hug before going back to explore the new space. I hug Gwen again and kiss her softly on the cheek. “I’ll be back later, maybe closer to 8:30. Thank you again, love you both!” I say to them as I walk out the front door and head back to the car. 

My appointments go by fast today, A few line work pieces and the first session of a large back piece. On my way out the door, I get a surprising phone call from Noah. 

Hey! Nat, how are you?

Hey Noah! I’m good, just finished up work for the day and I’m about to head to Gwen’s to pick up Erin. 

How was your day? Any fun ink?

Haha yes, I started on a sweet back piece that will take a few more sessions to finish.

That is awesome!

So I wanted to call and ask about something.

Oh? What’s up? Is everything okay?

yes, yes, everything is great! I just bought my ticket to Austin and wanted to see if you could grab me from the airport on Thursday?  

Oh! Of course, that’s no problem at all. 

Are you sure? I mean I could  figure out the car rental thing if that’s easier 

Oh hush Noah, it’s really not a big deal! We’d be happy to pick you up. 

Erin has been talking nonstop about you coming back to town. She’s making many plans to fit in plenty of activities before art camp next week.

Thank you Natty, I’m excited to see you both. My flight will land around 12 pm but our Airbnb won’t be ready until 4 pm. The other guys won’t be out until later next week. 

Sounds like a plan! We will scoop you up when you land and grab some lunch, Erin will be happy to hear the news.

Have a good night Natty, Lo- Bye! *click* 

“Hello? Noah? Umm okay, bye” I put my phone back in my bag, shake the weirdness off, and just get ready to head to pick up Erin and give her the exciting news. 

Gwen texted me what they decided on pizza for dinner, so I quickly run through the Dan’s Hamburgers drive-through to grab a big cheeseburger and curly fries.

Eating my dinner quickly on the road I switch on the radio and turn between channels until I find a familiar female voice. It takes me back to being a little kid in my parent’s car on a long car ride home.

“Hey there, It’s Delilah here with a collection of love songs to set your night off right. I know love comes and goes and I hope you find a love in your life that brings you the most joy and fills your heart with wonder.” 

Her soft voice drifts through my car and I settle into listening to the rest of her radio show until I get to Gwen’s. The love songs drift through the air…

So break my step

And relent

You forgave and I won't forget

Know what we've seen

And him with less

Now in some way

Shake the excess

'Cause I will wait, I will wait for you

“Okay, Delilah I get it! I’m figuring it out…just get off my back.” I grumble at the radio and switch it to the next station. 

I may not always love you

But long as there are stars above you

You never need to doubt it

I'll make you so sure about it

God only knows what I'd be without you

“Oh fuck off,” I say as I shut off the radio and complete the ride in silence. 

Erin races to the door when we get to the car, “I had so much fun with Gweny but I am sooo tired.” she slugs against the door, and when I click the unlock button she quickly climbs into the seat and reclines it back.

I laugh at her actions, shutting her eyes and curling into herself. “That’s what happens when you stay up all night listening to music silly girl.” I laugh and she groans, “I want to learn all of the lyrics so I can sing along when we go to one of Noah’s shows.” she grumbles sleepy. 

“Well they have a break coming up, so you’ll have plenty of time to learn the songs.” I tell her, “Actually, Noah called me after work. He’ll be here Thursday and asked if we could pick him up from the airport on Thursday.” She perks up immediately, springing up from her seat in excitement, “That sounds great! I’m so excited, omg what should we do? We have to show him the diner and oh oh we can take him to the water park! Or we can go rollerblading!” the sleepy child I saw minutes ago is gone and she’s awoken with a new spark.

“Okay baby, we will see what he has the energy for, remember he’s coming off of a long tour, he might just want to grab lunch and hang out at the house. But we will have lots of time to do all of the things you want to.” She’s still glowing with excitement on the drive home. My appointments tomorrow are later in the morning so when we get inside the house we sit in the living room and put on a movie. Erin decides to watch “Encanto”.  Haylie is in her room, probably working on her newest book but pokes her head out to say hi and double-check Erin is staying home tomorrow, with a nod of approval she slinks back into her room to finish writing, “Okay byee love youuu!” she calls as the door closes. 

Halfway through the movie I look over and see Erin has fallen asleep, I finish the movie wiping tears from my face. “Damn Disney movie,” I mumble. I gently move her upstairs and place her in her bed. 

When I am finished freshening up and laying my head down the last thing that goes through my head before sleep takes over. “Have a good night Natty, Love you! Bye.”

My dreams are visions of a future with Noah and Erin. We’re together laughing on the beach, building a sandcastle. I see myself pregnant with another baby, Noah’s eyes brighten up as he places a gentle hand on my stomach and kisses me. Sitting on the sand next to them my hands dig into the sand as the water washes up and the castle returns to the sea. The dream fades and twists into a new vision, Noah and I are arm and arm sitting on the couch watching a movie. The quiet domesticity makes my heart swell, the soft touches and gentle kisses. As his lips move down my neck a quiet gasp escapes me and my eyes shoot open as I vault myself up in bed breathlessly.

“Oh shit.” I say breathlessly, “Keep it together Nat.” 

By Thursday morning my nerves from my dream are taking over, I feel butterflies fluttering in my stomach as we wait in the lot for Noah to get off his flight. 

Noah: hey! I’m at pick-up stop H! 

Natalie: Okay! We will be there in a sec! :)

Erin is vibrating with excitement from the backseat and as we turn the corner and see Noah standing with his bags smiling and waving. “There is he! Pull over! Pull over!” Erin yells from behind me. “Okay okay, I have to wait for this car to pass sweetie,” I tell her as a nervous blush creeps up my neck.

I pull up to the side and pop the trunk as Erin shoots out to the car and runs to jump up and wrap her little around Noah. “Noah! You’re back! I’m so excited! What do you what do you want to do? Are you hungry? Me and my Mom like this diner they have the best pancakes!” Erin’s voice rings out and I laugh as I throw the car quickly into park to greet Noah. 

“Hey, Erin! I missed you!” he says dropping his bags on the ground to wrap his arms around her and lift her into a big hug, “lunch sounds amazing.” He turns to me placing Erin back on her feet. She attempts to grab his large duffels off the ground as I round the front of the car and the butterflies flutter again as he brings me into a firm hug. “Hey Natty,” he whispers into my hair. “Hey, Noah,” I respond into his chest. Erin struggles with the bag lifting it into the trunk. “Oh, honey -” I start but Noah quickly rushes over to help throw his bags into the back. “Thanks, little one,” he says to her and ruffles her hair. 

Noah opens the back door and lets her climb back into the car while I move to the driver’s side as a parking guard starts to look like he’s heading closer. “We’re heading out!” Noah politely waves to the guard and gets into the passenger seat. 

Throwing the car back into drive I carefully pull out. “So lunch?” I ask and Noah and Erin agree in unison. “So Erin, your mom says you have a lot of plans? What is first on the list?”

“Do you know how to rollerblade?”

next chapter ->

[sidekick-hero]

On April 2nd, freshly delivered to AO3: Emotional Motion Sickness, my contribution to the @strangerthingsreversebigbang inspired by art from the amazing @arimakes

Have a lil snippet as a treat 💜

When he looks at Eddie again, he sees that the other man is already looking back at him. A warm smile is on his face, which Steve returns without thinking. It grows even wider when Eddie takes his hand in his own and caresses his knuckles.

"So, I just had at least twenty different conversations with you in my head and none of my opening lines were any good. You were great, don't worry, you said all the right things." Steve laughs at the sheer ridiculousness of it all. He didn't pick Eddie to be a Casanova, but definitely a charmer. And while Eddie is charming, he's apparently also a total dork.

In other words, he is exactly Steve's type.

"I hope you'll forgive me if I mess up this one too, I'm trying a new approach," Eddie announces, clearing his throat. "Steve, would you allow me the honor of showing you that kink can be different than what you just described?"

When Steve says nothing for too long, Eddie adds hastily, "Not that you were wrong, not at all. Everything you described is kink, and I'm pretty sure you'd find people here for all those things. I'm just saying I could show you a different part of it, one you might like. Or not, which would be totally fine. We can stop at any time and you can say no to anything, consent is the most important thing.” Without really waiting for an answer, Eddie barrels on. "God, I'm really screwing this up, aren't I? Twenty-one tries and I'm still fumbling it, no wonder I was always picked last in gym class.“

Steve, who, thanks to his friendship with Robin, can spot a nervous rambler from a mile away, flips their hands, laces his fingers with Eddie's and squeezes his hand. "Deep breaths, Eddie. You're fine, I promise. It's actually a sweet offer, and I hope the "me" in your head told you that, too.”

Staring at their joined hands with a smile, Eddie ducks his head and looks back at Steve with a painfully sincere, hopeful expression on his face. God, he's so screwed, Steve thinks, an all too familiar feeling tugging at his heart. No, no, no, way too soon, abort, he scolds his heart, but he knows it's not listening. It never does.

"So? What do you think? Or if you need more time to think, that's totally cool, too." Eddie tells him earnestly and Steve believes him. He can tell how much Eddie wants him to say yes, but he's willing to wait for Steve, no matter how long it takes. Steve has no idea how he can know that, since he doesn't know much more about the man than his name, but he does. It's in the way Eddie keeps smiling at him, his thumb running absentmindedly over the back of Steve's hand, his body language open and soft.

As he keeps looking at the man in front of him, Steve marvels at how different it feels to be wanted by Eddie. The guys he had been with before had been easy, a sure thing, their hunger for Steve palpable but shallow. Easily satiated and discarded. With Eddie, it's deeper, more substantial. He makes Steve feel wanted in a different way, not as a means to an end. Rather, it feels like at this moment, there is nothing in this world for Eddie but Steve and the prospect of taking Steve home and exploring something new with him. It's heady and warm and Steve wants to say yes.

Steve had wanted to say yes to Eddie the moment he first laid eyes on him, if he's being honest.

So he does. He tells Eddie he'd love to and bathes in the sheer glow of Eddie's answering smile.

Just like when he entered the Hideout tonight, he has no idea what he's getting into, but at least this time he's not alone.

A special shout out to my cheerleaders @firefly-party and @thefreakandthehair as well as @starrystevie and of course for the most amazing beta @acasualcrossfade who picked this one apart and helped me put it back together even better. Love you guys! 💜🥰

[skxllz]

(shhhhh I'm testing out a new fandom. this is just experimental. PS- let me know what I can do to better improve my writing for him.)

john shelby x fem! american! reader: to touch you, is to feel gold amongst my finger tips

+

“ shh- keep yer’ fuckin’ mouth shut, would’ya? ”

you giggled in a hushed manner while stumbling down the cobblestone path to the shelby manner. it was late- around one in the morning when you two set out of the car and down the road to the house, freshly smelling of alcohol and john's cigars from celebrating all night. it was your birthday, just having turned twenty three. given it was six months down the line that you and the shelby man had been eloped in an arrangement of sorts... john figured it'd be a good idea to wed you into his ideal web of fun. drinking, dancing the night away, possibly snorting some forbidden snow and better yet- causing a wee bit of trouble.

see, you were only eight months into pearling around birmingham. when you first arrived, you were seen as nothing more than an innocent, bobolyne (1) of a gal. wearing long, flowy skirts and cute tops sewn with what seemed to be faux pearls and jewels; smiling so kindly to whoever passed by you; having the jolliest of pep in your step over the smallest things. It was sickening to a lot of the folks, given their little quarry of a town was so used to being dreary and filled with... well, people who weren't like you.

that seemed to be a temporary stain on your name for a month – before polly gray, the shelby brothers’ aunt, caught site of you at the cheltenham races speaking brashly to an older man who just wouldn't keep his mits off of you. you backhanded him and kneed him in a very particular area, earning not only interest from the woman, but the utmost respect for not letting yourself to be whored out.

she unintentionally met your father, who spoke rather highly of you. the two mingled, she found out you were in need of a suitor, and the rest is history up until this point.

because of being wedged into the shelby family and in the protection of them, the town's people no longer looked at you funny. If they did, john would have his way them – as would his brother, arthur, since he took a liking to you.

“ m’not doing anything! ” you lightly hissed, trying to keep yourself upright in the green wedges you wore. there was barely any height given to you, yet the heal was just not agreeing with your drunken state, leaving you to almost fall more than once.

john made a face of agitation, clicking his tongue. “ y/n; you're ready to fall on your bloody face, for fuck's sake. ” he yet again tried to take ahold of your wobbly body, going in for your arm which had stretched out so you could balance yourself, but you once again shooed him away. even though it's been a short amount of time, john's come to realize you were not like any woman he's met; you were a stubborn broad. he admired that, though. surprisingly..

“ you know what? ” john muttered to himself, before he spat the toothpick he had between his lips to the ground- only to bend at the knees to scoop you into his arms. the sudden weight of his bicep under the backs of your knees ripped a gasp from you, making you react on instinct to wrap your arms around his neck.

“ john! ” you looked at him with half lidded, sleepy eyes and whined. “ put me down! I can walk on my own. ”

he paid no attention to you, choosing to look ahead with his lips drawn together in a flat line. he scoffed once he heard what you said, trying not to roll his eyes. “ right- ‘cause you could certainly make it up the walk way without runnin’ into the wall and bustin’ yer’ arse. I believe you, sweetheart. ”

you were too out of it to notice his attitude, but you did pick up on the slight sarcasm. “ shut up... ” you huffed, glaring at him; arm lifting to lazily smack him. he immediately looked down at you after that. “ you're just mea- ”

“ say I'm mean, love, and I'll show ya’ how actually mean a shelby can be. ” john interrupted before you could even finish your thought. “ if anythin’, I believe I've treated you quite fairly. had it been anyone else, you'd be kickin’ an’ screamin’ right now. ”

turning his attention forwards again, he took your silence as a good thing - for now, anyway. “ now – be a good girl and hush yer’ mouth, yeah? don't need t’be wakin’ the whole house with yer’ loud gob. ”

It wasn't until john heard a rather small sniffle, barely audible, moments later did he stop in his tracks. he looked down, only to see you looking away from him with teary eyes and a quivering lip. you were not an emotional person, but getting drunk always toyed with your brain to where you'd get easily offended. so in a way, you were an emotional drunk. It could be quite annoying on your end, because even though you got upset over little things, you didnt want to - which only made you more upset. and being more upset, made you even more upset. the cycle just kept going which would eventually lead you to balling your eyes out.

fortunately for john, he wasn't oblivious to this act within a drunken state. when ada was younger and first started her fair share of booze, she'd get emotional as well, leaving her brothers to coddle her in someway because any chap that even tried to sweep her away, arthur and thomas would see to it.

with a sigh, john pondered in his head on how to approach this situation with ease without accidentally hurting you more. he could have quite the temper at times - as well as say things a bit harsher than meaning to, and it could break the dam that was barely holding your tears upright. that is something he didn't need nor want to happen. everyone in the house would awake from the fuss, and he'd be left to feeling like an asshole for making his future bride, cry.

“ sweetheart... ” carefully, he set you down - but immediately you stumbled from not being fast enough to catch the door. due to this, john quickly fastened an arm around her waist as he stood - thankfully, it cracked a small smile from him. “ careful. don't need you breakin’ somethin’. ”

you had looked at him, chin downcasted just a bit, making your eyes seem larger and doe-eyed. lip stuck in a jutted pout with the tiniest line of mascara running down your cheek, you appeared to look like a little kid planning on getting payback; just, with the way you looked, so devilish yet cute.

it pulled on John's heart strings.

“ don't look at me like that... ” he mumbled, lifting his free hand to caress your cheek into a gentle cradle of his palm. “ ya’ know I fuckin’ hate it when you give me those eyes. I can't resist ‘em. ”

(I'm stopping here. this was only an experimental piece. I did plan on finishing it, but for now I'd just like opinions on this.)

[aesthetic-gamersnail]

One scenario I have been thinking about:

Poppy, freshly in a relationship with Branch, wants to do something nice for him and show that she is an awesome girlfriend. She knows that Branch likes chocolate very much. So, what would be the most normal course of action?

One morning, Poppy sits in her pod and scrapbooks peacefully until Branch comes barging in and says calmly: "Poppy."

Poppy: "Hello Branch, how are you doing? :)"

Branch:".....I'm fine, just, eh, one question. - Was it you?"

Poppy:"Whatever do you mean, sugar boo?"

Branch:"Well, you know, I mean the THIRTY CONTAINERS OF CHOCOLATE IN MY BUNKER! How do I know how many there are? I COUNTED THEM!"

Poppy:"Oh, good, you found them."

Branch:"Well, they are kinda hard too overlook. How did you even get them in there and why do you have so much chocolate at your disposal?"

Poppy:"Being queen comes with certain perks, Branch. But I will not elaborate because there are secrets that I am not yet willing to share."

Branch:"Oooookay? But, for the love of god, tell me why, what was the reason? Why did you put a comically large amount of chocolate into my home?"

Poppy:"Oh, it is rather simple, really. For you see: As your girlfriend I want you to feel happy and secure. I know that you like chocolate. I also know that you have been alone for the last 20 years, so, the twenty containers of chocolate are supposed to make up for that, and the other 10 are supposed to be kind of a promise, that for the next ten years I will be by your side and you won't be alone. I, of course, want to stay longer with you that just 10 years, but I did not have more chocolate at hand to show it, sorry about that."

Branch:"......Look, I appreciate it and I think it is very sweet of you, but it does not make sense."

Poppy: "Well, the math is mathing, so it makes perfect sense to me."

Branch:"Poppy - you can't do something like that."

Poppy:"Do you like chocolate?"

Branch:"Y-yeah, I-"

Poppy:"Do you have room in your bunker to store it?"

Branch:"W-well, yes, but-"

Poppy:"So, what is the prob?"

Branch:"P-Poppy, it is not about the technicalities, it is about the principle. You can't leave 30 containers of chocolate in my home, that is too much. How much time will I spend to eat it? Why would you even do something like that?"

Poppy:"I love you and I want you to be happy, that should be reason enough. And besides, there is nothing that I could give you that would be too much, it is rather always the question if it is even closely enough.*grabs his face in her hands and looks at him* There is nothing too grand for you, because you are the coolest and best Troll I know, so don't sweat too much about the details, ok sweat cheeks? :)"

Branch *visibly blushing*:"....You are going to be the death of me. I always thought more of a heart attack type of situation, but I guess I will be probably die from diabetes."

[ellabswilliamson]

Since you're accepting requests, can I pls ask something like this

Jesse and Fem!reader are dating, and in one of the times she's at home with him, she goes to the bathroom. When she comes back, she catches jesse saying sweet nothings to reader's puppy and playing with the dog. And reader gets emotional because she realizes she just got the softest dad for her pets. Jesse laughs when he realizes she's crying about something so silly like that. All very domestic and comfy, i know🫣

Jesse x Fem!Reader Request

Domestic fluff, fluff, Jesse x Fem!Reader, date night au, sfw, happy ending.

Words: 2,642

(( This was super cute to write, and I had a lot of fun doing it! I do hope you enjoy it!!! And thank you for the request! ))

Summary: As you're getting ready for date night with Jesse, you realize how perfect he is for you.

A year. You almost couldn't believe it.

It had been a whole year since you and Jesse decided to make your relationship official. A year since he'd nervously asked you to dance at the fall harvest festival held in Jackson and whispered the question in your ear during one of the slow dances. You don't know how the time passed by so quickly, but you were thankful for the year of memories made beside the man you loved.

Tonight was your one-year anniversary, and Jesse told you he has an incredible night planned for the both of you, though he's refused to mention anything that may spoil the anticipation. Your brain had been spinning all week trying to figure out what was in store, but alas, Jesse was the stupid, adorable rock that wouldn't budge, and all of your guesses were met with the same "I'm not gonna tell you, you just have to be patient," calmly chuckled out.

As excited as you were, you were also a little anxious, not having a single clue what the surprise was. You'd even tried to get any little slip of info from your mutual friends, like Dina, Ellie, and even Jesse's parents, but it seemed that he had sworn them to secrecy. Alas, the evening was finally here, and you decided to busy yourself getting ready, rather than worry about it. As you walked to get a towel from the hall closet, a small bark startled you from your thoughts. As your four-legged friend padded toward you, you smiled, bending down to pet her. She licked your hand a few times, causing you to giggle. "Hi, Daisy. I know, I shouldn't worry so much." the dog responded with one more hand lick, setting her chin on your knee. "How about you come hang out with me while I get ready, hm? Then we'll get your dinner ready." Daisy looked like she was processing what you said, then without another word, padded her way down the hall and entered your room, leaving you in the dust. You chuckled to yourself, figuring that was all the response you needed from her. You followed her back into your room, where you found her laying in her bed on the floor just beside yours. "Ok, give me time to shower, then you can be the audience of my one-person fashion show," you said to Daisy as you headed for the bathroom.

Twenty minutes later, you were freshly showered, dried, hair fixed up, and after some small grooming tweaks in the bathroom mirror, it was time to pick out an outfit for the evening. Only trouble was, since Jesse had kept the planned events of the evening a secret, you weren't sure how to appropriately dress for the evening. Would it be a formal occasion? Something casual with their friends? A small, intimate evening out where a balance of formal and casual would be acceptable? Since Jesse wasn't here to pick you up just yet, you couldn't get his opinion, so it was all up to you. After a few minutes of sifting through your drawers and closet, you found two outfits that you thought would be perfect, but now you had to decide the final one. Decisions, decisions…

Your first choice was a casual button-up blouse. It was tan with red and pink flower print scattered across the fabric, had long sleeves, so it would be perfect for a cooler Autumn night, and since it was a button-up, the neckline would be adjustable. The top would be paired with your favorite (and most comfortable) pair of jeans and finished off with a brown belt to match. It wasn't anything fancy, but it was cute and would work for a nice, casual, celebratory evening out. Best part is it wouldn't restrict any dancing or other physical activities throughout the evening.

The second outfit was a bit more showy, but would be perfect for a more formal evening. It was a sundress in a pale seafoam color with white dots patterned all over it. The neckline dipped into a perfect length vee with the fabric overlaying itself to create ripples for depth and texture, around the waist was strips of the fabric sewn to the sides so that you could pull the dress tighter if need be, and once tied it created a lovely bow in the front. The dress was about mid-shin length, and was made with slits up the side of either leg, the slits stopping just above mid-thigh. Enough so that if you struck a pose or crossed your legs, your legs would peak out, but it wasn't showy enough to be deemed inappropriate to wear in public. The material was fairly light, and with spaghetti straps instead of any kind of sleeve, you knew it might be a little chilly to wear on a Fall evening like this, but then you thought it would be a perfect excuse to steal Jesse's tan denim jacket that he loved to wear, which also happened to be your favorite jacket of his.

(Whichever outfit you pick, choice 1 being the casual outfit and choice 2 being the more formal outfit, slightly effects Jesse's reaction to seeing you. After making your choice, please continue reading the numbered paragraph matching the outfit choice)

(Choice 1: The casual blouse and jeans) You decide to go with the blouse and jeans. It wasn't anything fancy, but it was cute little outfit, and you knew Jesse would think it was cute because he's the one who bought it for you. You thought about how it was late September. The weather should be reasonable, but you knew the nights get chilly, so this would be perfect for the evening. It was also easy to move in, in case there's a hike or horseback riding or dancing in store for you. Either way, it was sure to be a good choice!

You we're just trying to decide which pair of shoes to wear, when you heard a knock at the front door. "Coming!" you called out as you made your way through the house to the door. A quick safety check through the peephole confirmed your suspicion of who your visitor was, and with a not-so-subtle grin, you pulled open the door to great the love of your life. "Hey, baby, how's it going?" You happily greeted him. Jesse was easy on the eyes. Tall, fit, dark shaggy hair and a 5'o'Clock shadow that he'd been trying to grow out for the last couple weeks. You met his warm, brown eyes and caught a glimpse of his smile and a wave of love washed over you. How'd you ever get so lucky?

"Hi, Hon, it's good to see you," Jesse greeted back as his smile widened and he leaned in for a hug and a quick but tender kiss. "You look great!" He took a step back, admiring your casual outfit, and his wide smile broke into a bright grin. "You're wearing the blouse I got you! I was right: I knew it would look perfect on you," The bright grin across his face and the look of admiration in his eyes told you he loved your look. "And it'll be comfortable for tonight's plans."

(the rest of the story is the same regardless of your previous choice. Please skip to the Orange line below to continue!)

(Choice 2: The light-weather sundress) You decided on the cute seafoam sundress. Sure, it wasn't exactly what you would call a fall-weather dress, but the weather in Jackson usually stayed at reasonable temperatures well into October, and if worse came to worse, you'd just use a nip in the air as an ploy for snagging Jesse's jacket in the most subtle of ways. It was a win-win either way!

You we're just trying to decide which pair of shoes to wear, when you heard a knock at the front door. "Coming!" you called out as you made your way through the house to the door. A quick safety check through the peephole confirmed your suspicion of who your visitor was, and with a not-so-subtle grin, you pulled open the door to great the love of your life. "Hey, baby, how's it going?" You happily greeted him. Jesse was easy on the eyes. Tall, fit, dark shaggy hair and a 5'o'Clock shadow that he'd been trying to grow out for the last couple weeks. You met his warm, brown eyes and caught a glimpse of his smile and a wave of love washed over you. How'd you ever get so lucky?

"Hi, Hon, it's good to see you," Jesse greeted back as his smile widened and he leaned in for a hug and a quick but tender kiss. "You look great!" He took a step back, admiring your ensemble, and his wide smile melted into a look of awe.

"What? If there something wrong with my outfit?" You asked, assuming you may have gotten a stain on the dress, but when you looked down, you found that the dress was spotless. Well, unless you counted the white dots in the pattern.

"No, totally the opposite. I've just never seen you in this dress before... it looks perfect on you!" The bright grin across his face and the look of admiration in his eyes told you he loved your look. "Although, it might be a little chilly... are you prepared for that?"

A small, mischievous smile spread across your face. "Of course I am! If I get chilly, I'll just have to use your jacket to keep warm," You tried to assume an innocent expression, even though you knew he could see right through your intentions.

Jesse let out the laugh that bubbled up in reaction to your terrible innocent expression. You always loved Jesse's laugh. "Real subtle, babe. Fine, you can steal it for just one night, but only because I don't want to have to change tonight's plans."

(the rest of the story is the same regardless of your previous choice. Please skip to the Orange line below to continue!)

(Read here to continue and finish the fic!)

"And what sort of plans would those be, hm?" You asked innocently, wrapping your hands around Jesse's waist in a casual embrace.

He let out a soft chuckle. He figured you were going to ask. "You're very cute, but as I've said, its a surprise. Just bear with me another hour and you'll see for yourself." He tucked a small piece of hair behind your left ear, planting a gentle smooch on your forehead.

You gave a fake pout before relenting with a sigh. "Fine, you win this one. But only because I can't resist your handsome face." With a small smile, you leaned in to give him a peck on the lips.

"I'll count myself lucky then," He leaned in to meet your kiss. "You almost ready? I've got the saddlebags all packed, so we can head out at any time."

"Oh, so we're going somewhere?" you grinned. Maybe he'd slip up and tell you after all.

"Yes, we have to go for a little ride, but your surprise is at the end of our adventure. That's all you're gettin' out of me. Now, come on, it's almost sunset."

You released his waist, giving a little smile. "Yes, love. Give me a few minutes, and I'll be ready to go." With that, you walked back to your room, leaving him in the living room to wait. As you entered your room, your pup, Daisy got off her bed and trotted down the hallway. Though you'd only had Daisy for six months, she was obsessed with Jesse and always had to say hi when he came over.

Five minutes later, you'd picked out a lovely pair of boots that complimented your outfit, grabbed any last minutes little things you may need for the evening, and made your way down the hall to meet Jesse in the living room. As you approached the end of the hall, you heard someone using babytalk, and the voice sounded very similar to Jesse's. You quietly crept to the end of the hall to see what would prompt him to use such a silly tone that you'd never heard before, and stopped to grin as you saw Jesse sitting criss-cross on the floor, showering Daisy with pets galore. "You're just a pwetty widdle babygirl, yes you are! Ooh, I'm gonna get you! Bwahh! Yeah, you looove the tummy pets, huh? What a sweet girl!" He praised the pup with his babytalk as he tackled her tummy with tickles and pets. You giggled softly to yourself. Yeah, Jesse was perfect for you, and it seemed Daisy agreed, since she didn't let just anyone touch her tummy like that. Your eyes got misty as you realized how perfect Jesse was for you, and that he'd be good to Daisy as well. You stepped out into the living room just in time to hear his last little comments.

"Yeah, you're gonna be so big and strong one day! You'll be the envy of the town. Everyone will wish they had a pup like you," He praised the pup while rubbing her ears. He noticed movement out of the corner of his eye, and immediately jumped up as he made eye contact with you. "Oh, h-hey, you're back!" He stood awkwardly, looking from you, to Daisy and back. "Not sure how much of that you heard... But let's pretend you heard none of it," He blushed, chuckling shyly. His cool-guy persona was shattered now, but it didn't make a difference to you. You already knew Jesse was a softie at heart.

You smiled, chuckling with him, before moving closer to pull him into a hug, hoping he wouldn't noticed your teary-eyed expression. "Oh, Jesse, you're so serious, sometimes. I love you, you know?"

He chuckled awkwardly again, but flashed you a soft look and smile before noticing the threat of tears in your eyes. "Are you alright, babe? You look like you've been crying." He asked, concerned about what made you sad.

Wiping away the bit of mirth from your eyes, you nodded. "Yes, I'm fine. Just seeing you being so kind and sweet to Daisy made me realize I definitely made the right choice. I just...really love and appreciate you, Jess. I hope you don't think I take you for granted." You said, hoping your voice didn't sound too sad.

"Hey," he chuckled, pulling you into a tight hug. Some might think you're silly for crying over something like that, but he knew you were being serious. "I'm happy to have both of you in my life, and I wouldn't trade it for the world, I hope you know that." He gently guided your face to his, using his thumb and finger to guide your chin toward him. "I think it's sweet, how fully you love. And I hope I never take that for granted. I love you, too, you know." He reassured you, punctuating his last sentence with a long, tender kiss.

"Thank you. It's also so refreshing seeing that soft side of you. Why don't I see that more often?"

He blushed slightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "It's easier to be taken seriously in my line of work if I'm the cool, no-nonsense guy. Guess it's hard to let go, sometimes."

You gave a soft chuckle, hugging him again. "It's ok, your secret's safe with me."

"Good. You're sworn to secrecy, by the way. Daisy doesn't want people to know that she secretly loves belly rubs."

"Of course, Love. I wouldn't want daisy to be embarrassed." You agreed, taking a second to enjoy this moment. This was going to be the perfect evening, and a perfect beginning to the years ahead of both of you.

[halothenthehorns]

Chapter 21: MY PARENTS GO COMMANDO

Percy looked entirely traumatized at the new chapter title Thalia read and very likely would have traded back all of his freshly regained memories to not hear whatever this was.

They weren't even entirely sure if it was the fear of his mom running around sanes underwear for some unknown reason, or the worse implication of her joining in the fight.

"What are the odds my dad just shows up and one accident leads to another where his shorts get ripped off?" Percy groaned with his face in his hands. Better that trauma than anything to do with his other, mortal parents!

Annabeth took his hand, and he knew he could get through this. He'd won over Kronos. He had to. His family depended on him...no matter how it got to that point...and he'd keep telling himself that until he could barter a better deal about what horrible images were put into this book.

By the time we got to the street, it was too late.

"Too late to what?" Alex clarified.

"Stop it from getting worse," Percy said darkly. He did not do well being cornered.

Campers and Hunters lay wounded on the ground. Clarisse must've lost a fight with a Hyperborean giant, because she and her chariot were frozen in a block of ice.

Jason made a guttural noise of surprised pain. Had that blessing of her fathers worn off already? Was she okay?!

"Don't worry, we got her unthawed," Will said in exhaustion how much chipping had been done. He'd warned Nyssa they should start from the bottom up, but no, nobody ever listened to him and Clarisse had run her mouth the entire time of course.

The centaurs were nowhere to be seen.

Either they'd panicked and ran or they'd been disintegrated.

Both depressing options. This was absolutely nothing new for Percy's life.

The Titan army ringed the building, standing maybe twenty feet from the doors. Kronos's vanguard was in the lead: Ethan Nakamura, the dracaena queen in her green armor, and two Hyperboreans.

Magnus's skin twitched in disgust at the idea of standing side by side with monsters to kill someone. He frowned to himself though as he realized Tyson and Mrs. O'Leary and a lot of Percy's allies weren't 'normal' but brushed that aside. Monster, then, in the sense that Ethan was standing with creatures that had no regard for life. That would sooner kill him as much as who they were charging at.

I didn't see Prometheus. The slimy weasel was probably hiding back at their headquarters. But Kronos himself stood right in front with his scythe in hand.

The only thing standing in his way was . . .

"Chiron," Annabeth said, her voice trembling.

"Time for the after party?" Magnus tried to say as he watched her bite her lip so hard the skin around it went white.

"Then the VIP after-after party," Alex immiedtily joined in.

"Guys, we were the life of the party at that point," Percy reminded, exhaustion in every syllable. He didn't know how else to explain there were no more tricks, no more strategies. Their teacher was down to his last straw.

If Chiron heard us, he didn't answer. He had an arrow notched, aimed straight at Kronos's face.

As soon as Kronos saw me, his gold eyes flared. Every muscle in my body froze. Then the Titan lord turned his attention back to Chiron. "Step aside, little son."

Hearing Luke call Chiron his son was weird enough, but Kronos put contempt in his voice, like son was the worst word he could think of.

"Maybe because his own children participated in cutting him up and throwing him in super hell?" Nico offered. "Just a thought. Kronos isn't an emotionless statue in the museum, he knows that family turning on each other cuts the deepest." It was plain as day in Annabeth's eyes the entire time she'd been in here with Luke's name on the edge of every page.

Percy grinned at him in agreement. He was feeling less and less guilty about telling him to stay back in the Underworld if he could get through to his dad with stuff like that, like he just had for Posideon.

"I'm afraid not." Chiron's tone was steely calm, the way he gets when he's really angry.

"When have you ever heard him really angry?" Will asked in quiet surprise. He couldn't say he'd ever heard that tone, and he'd heard Chiron shout at the Stoll brothers half his life.

"Never," Percy agreed, which is why it had shocked him so much. Chiron, standing alone to protect all of them while they'd been frozen in place. The knowledge that he could have died and their Camp would never feel the same. He'd finally failed to do something that even Heracles had triumphed in.

It really had been a moment frozen in time Kronos had been glorifying in.

I tried to move, but my feet felt like concrete. Annabeth, Grover, and Thalia were straining too, like they were just as stuck.

"Chiron!" Annabeth said. "Look out!"

The dracaena queen became impatient and charged. Chiron's arrow flew straight between her eyes and she vaporized on the spot, her empty armor clattering to the asphalt.

Chiron reached for another arrow, but his quiver was empty. He dropped the bow and drew his sword.

I knew he hated fighting with a sword. It was never his favorite weapon.

Alex had some half-assed remark up her sleeve about the trainer needing more training then, but she couldn't make herself say it. She'd never even liked Chiron that much before all this, but the fact that right now he was showing he was as good as his word and standing against all those monsters completely alone without hesitation finally did make her realize he was willing to stand up to anyone to defend those kids in his camp.

Kronos chuckled. He advanced a step, and Chiron's horse-half skittered nervously. His tail flicked back and forth.

"You're a teacher," Kronos sneered. "Not a hero."

Percy had vague memories of passing posters in his school that had teachers on top of mountains holding flags with corny slogans like 'teachers are the real heroes' and junk. He usually stopped to offer a fresh marker to kids who were doodling mustaches on them.

Chiron hadn't always been a great teacher, often treating him like many others. He'd felt isolated and like a child more often than not in his presence.

But he did care about him as a friend. Chiron was a hero just because he was patient and kind and gave kids a home as he gave the same speech over and over about how the gods were and how they'd at least be safe there.

Plus, Paul was a good guy too. He'd at least crack Kronos over the head with a textbook for making the teacher thing sound like an insult.

"Luke was a hero," Chiron said. "He was a good one, until you corrupted him."

Thalia made a deep noise of disgust she must have learned specifically from the hunters. Annabeth watched in dismay she really didn't believe a word of that now because she hadn't spent the years in Camp watching Luke take every new kid under his wing in the Hermes cabin whether they stayed there or not, watching him become a master swords men and never brag about it. Thalia only remembered the worst of him, it was no wonder her hate ran so deep.

Annabeth wished she had some magical plan up her sleeve to fix this. Holding onto hate wasn't ever going to make the hurt go away. She stiffened her shoulders and pushed the idea of magic aside, she didn't need it. She would come up with something.

"FOOL!" Kronos's voice shook the city. "You filled his head with empty promises. You said the gods cared about me!"

'Me,' Annabeth had instantly noticed, her breath caught in her throat. He'd said, 'me.' Gods she'd wanted to rip Kronos out of there molecule by molecule with one hand while throttling Luke with the other for everything he'd done. To Silena, to Thalia, to her, to everybody who'd believed in him culminating in this moment where there had been no half-bloods left standing with the monsters. Either dead or eaten by now.

If the gods didn't care about them enough to intervene and prevent all this happening to their children, then they should at least care about each other enough to have never let it go this far.

"Me," Chiron noticed. "You said me."

"He certainly did," Thalia muttered, but the others had looks of delayed shock on their face as they played those words back in their head while she and Annabeth exchanged a miserable look. Luke was still fighting in there. Not that Thalia had a single shred of caring left, clear in every word she spoke.

Percy heard it anyways. She hid well the look on her face behind the book, dampened with time that had been on full display that day. Not the same devesitation on Annabeth, but something that wasn't just flat hate either.

Kronos looked confused, and in that moment, Chiron struck. It was a good maneuver—a feint followed by a strike to the face. I couldn't have done better myself, but Kronos was quick. He had all of Luke's fighting skill, which was a lot. He knocked aside Chiron's blade and yelled, "BACK!"

A blinding white light exploded between the Titan and the centaur. Chiron flew into the side of the building with such force the wall crumbled and collapsed on top of him.

"I really hate it when those Titans do that," Percy seethed, white-hot anger coming off of him in waves, almost literally for a moment as the water around him began to steam before Annabeth slipped her arm through his without fear. It all faded back as he took a breath, but the rage building up did need a release eventually or he'd wind up beaching whales and giant squids soon from messing with the temperature down here.

He kept wishing that had been him. He could have stood up from that rubble and walked this off. What had Chiron been thinking?! They still didn't even know Kronos's weak spot!

"I know," Annabeth whispered beside him, holding his hand tight. The worst of it was Chiron would just get up and do the exact same thing again for them.

"No!" Annabeth wailed. The freezing spell broke. We ran toward our teacher, but there was no sign of him. Thalia and I pulled helplessly at the bricks while a ripple of ugly laughter ran through the Titan's army.

"YOU!" Annabeth turned on Luke. "To think that I . . . that I thought—"

She drew her knife.

"Annabeth, don't." I tried to take her arm, but she shook me off.

She attacked Kronos, and his smug smile faded. Perhaps some part of Luke remembered that he used to like this girl, used to take care of her when she was little. She plunged her knife between the straps of his armor, right at his collar bone. The blade should've sunk into his chest. Instead it bounced off.

Annabeth doubled over, clutching her arm to her stomach. The jolt might've been enough to dislocate her bad shoulder.

Nico had once thought he'd been on the receiving end of the worst of her anger. He knew that look that had been on her face and wasn't surprised in the slightest Luke, Kronos, or whoever hadn't a chance to deflect that incoming attack.

And it just made him sad how well he understood that pain. Of looking into the face of someone and not even recognizing them as you lashed out.

Percy's hands twitched, to pull her back to his side, to hold her close. She saw that and leaned into his side without hesitation. She was taking this harder the second time than he was. It had been confusing and soul-shattering enough the first time. Now sitting here, clincally sorting through every mistake she'd made with an audience...gods even her mom couldn't have whipped up such a specific torment to punish her for the past few months of happiness she'd had. Hades couldn't have ripped this torture out of her head because she never would have guessed how bad it hurt until she was living it. Every mistake she'd ever made just up in plain bold letters now inescapable if she ever wanted Percy back.

I yanked her back as Kronos swung his scythe, slicing the air where she'd been standing.

She fought me and screamed, "I HATE you!" I wasn't sure who she was talking to—me or Luke or Kronos. Tears streaked the dust on her face.

"A little of all three at that moment," Annabeth muttered only for him. She'd hated everyone, everything in the world in that moment as she'd thought Chiron dead. Percy holding her had been the only thing stopping her from crumpling to nothing at that moment and she'd hated it, would have welcomed oblivion at that point.

"I have to fight him," I told her.

"It's my fight too, Percy!"

Kronos laughed. "So much spirit. I can see why Luke wanted to spare you. Unfortunately, that won't be possible."

Percy still found it harder to believe every day what a gullible idiot Luke had been for falling for this crooked way he was being used. The lies felt so obvious, Kronos's careless demeanor towards everyone to get to the top felt so obvious to him.

How desperate Luke must have been to find some way to change his lot in life...

He raised his scythe. I got ready to defend, but before Kronos could strike, a dog's howl pierced the air somewhere behind the Titan's army. "Arroooooooo!"

Magnus still shivered instinctively with hatred for knowing that sound all to well. For picturing glowing eyes and hulking bodies with distinct shapes stalking forward.

But Nico grinned. The kind of smile that lit up his face and made him lean forward in his seat with excitement they rarely saw in here for something that might be good happening to him.

Magnus tried to be a good sport and push his problems away and not shrink into his seat in revulsion as that sounded like a herald of death to him...before he blinked and realized that might be exactly what it was for someone else. Well at least that was a nice change of pace.

It was too much to hope, but I called, "Mrs. O'Leary?"

The enemy forces stirred uneasily. Then the strangest thing happened. They began to part, clearing a path through the street like something behind them was forcing them to.

Soon there was a free aisle down the center of Fifth Avenue. Standing at the end of the block was my giant dog, and a small figure in black armor.

Nico grumbled at the word small. He'd just parted an army with sheer power like Percy had once done on the ship of Kronos's deck and still he was called small! If he didn't get a growth spurt in the next year he was hunting someone down for sport, the only question being his dad or Zeus.

"Nico?" I called.

"ROWWF!" Mrs. O'Leary bounded toward me, ignoring the growling monsters on either side. Nico strode forward.

Nobody had really been in doubt it was him, in fact they were smiling as bright as Nico for Percy calling him in for backup.

It just didn't lessen the tension in the room by a single breath as the loan soldier appeared without the God for backup. One more kid in black armor to wade through another sea of monsters.

The enemy army fell back before him like he radiated death, which of course he did.

Will was really starting to get tired of Percy constantly saying that too as much as Nico probably was. Yeah, but it wasn't the only thing he radiated. He'd just showed up there to help, he was powerful but that had always stemmed from a place of love like all the others at Camp.

Through the face guard of his skull-shaped helmet, he smiled. "Got your message. Is it too late to join the party?"

"Never for you my friend," Alex chuckled.

"Sweet, permanent free pass to be late," Nico grinned.

"Son of Hades." Kronos spit on the ground.

"That was just disrespectful. And rude." Jason frowned. "What did you do to him to deserve that?"

"Existed, apparently," Nico shrugged without concern.

"Do you love death so much you wish to experience it?"

"Haven't heard great things about it honestly," Magnus scoffed.

"Would not recommend," Percy chuckled from a little to much personal experience dancing around it.

"Your death," Nico said, "would be great for me."

"Tell me you did an awesome pose Nico?" Alex smirked. "Drew your sword and held it in front of your face or pointed it at him or something."

"My voice didn't crack when I said it," he offered.

"Eh," she huffed.

"I'm immortal, you fool! I have escaped Tartarus. You have no business here, and no chance to live."

"He only got two of those four statements correct," Jason sniffed. "Every Greek hero has business being there right now."

"Well no one was going to suggest he start being our next math teacher thankfully," Annabeth chuckled.

Nico drew his sword—three feet of wicked sharp Stygian iron, black as a nightmare. "I don't agree."

The ground rumbled. Cracks appeared in the road, the sidewalks, the sides of the buildings. Skeletal hands grasped the air as the dead clawed their way into the world of the living. There were thousands of them, and as they emerged, the Titan's monsters got jumpy and started to back up.

They hadn't been the only ones. Percy hadn't been thrilled to see an army of the dead again considering A) how easily he'd beat them and B) he'd been seeing to many of his friends joining that kind of entourage lately.

But the way Thalia had released a low whistle, impressed with that kind of skill and control, and especially how Annabeth's breath had gone back to ragged rather than gasping, he'd felt an immense surge of gratitude for Nico all the same for his great timing.

"HOLD YOUR GROUND!" Kronos demanded. "The dead are no match for us."

"Words I hope he can't live to regret," Will scowled. Just because Percy had been able to dismantle them all didn't mean anyone with the curse could. Luke wasn't a hero the same way Percy was. They could bathe in the same Styx, but Kronos could never make Luke's body have Percy's heart, the reason Percy had jumped in. The very force that activated Percy's ability to fight like a demon.

The sky turned dark and cold. Shadows thickened. A harsh war horn sounded, and as the dead soldiers formed up ranks with their guns and swords and spears, an enormous chariot roared down Fifth Avenue. It came to a stop next to Nico. The horses were living shadows, fashioned from darkness. The chariot was inlaid with obsidian and gold, decorated with scenes of painful death. Holding the reins was Hades himself, Lord of the Dead, with Demeter and Persephone riding behind him.

"One of these days you're going to have to explain to me how you did that," Percy managed to tell him among the others whooping with excitement.

"Pretty similar to what you did actually," Nico grinned as he tipped his head in thanks. Just all casual-like between them now. "Just did my best to remind my dad of what was important besides himself without getting blasted."

"Lucky for you two it worked," Thalia smiled fondly, even if there was a deep bitterness in her wrapped around her heart promising she probably couldn't have managed the same. If she'd dared try to get Zeus to do something he didn't want to she'd be vaporized for sure, and Arteims likely wouldn't be able to stop him. Perhaps just take revenge on some other child of his.

Hades wore black armor and a cloak the color of fresh blood. On top of his pale head was the helm of darkness: a crown that radiated pure terror. It changed shape as I watched—from a dragon's head to a circle of black flames to a wreath of human bones. But that wasn't the scary part. The helm reached into my mind and ignited my worst nightmares, my most secret fears. I wanted to crawl into a hole and hide, and I could tell the enemy army felt the same way. Only Kronos's power and authority kept his ranks from fleeing.

Hades smiled coldly. "Hello, Father. You're looking . . . young."

Alex snorted in delight. "Chiron and Kronos cheating death by the centuries and refusing to share their secrets."

"Please stick to his tail curlers instead of the body possession," Magnus sighed.

"I'll consider both backburners if I have to ponder my mortality," she promised.

"Hades," Kronos growled. "I hope you and the ladies have come to pledge your allegiance."

"Can we just stop for a moment and appreciate this though," Will smiled lovingly from the book to Nico. "Percy's been trying to get an Olympian there since all this started, and Nico show's up with three!"

"One, and two-ish," Annabeth politely corrected. Will ignored her.

"I'm over here laughing he called them ladies. Didn't know Kronos had a polite bone in his body. Probably had to steal it from Luke," Magnus chuckled.

"Yes, yes, the kid's persuasive and deserves a purple plastic crown you can build him in arts and crafts when we get back," Thalia sighed. "We're almost done with this one, can we please focus just a bit more?" Percy's memories were nearly fully restored and they could finally stop talking about Luke and move on to Jason's life, a win win to her as far as she could see.

"I was focusing on important details," Will protested, but Thalia kept reading since his point was clearly made and Nico gave his hand an affectionate squeeze to encourage him letting it go. He really didn't want Will to start hanging banners or something crazy over everything he did. This was more than enough attention for him.

"I'm afraid not." Hades sighed. "My son here convinced me that perhaps I should prioritize my list of enemies." He glanced at me with distaste. "As much as I dislike certain upstart demigods, it would not do for Olympus to fall. I would miss bickering with my siblings. And if there is one thing we agree on—it is that you were a TERRIBLE father."

"Priorities," Percy said in delight before snorting with laughter.

"We take the wins we can get around here," Annabeth chuckled along.

"True," muttered Demeter. "No appreciation of agriculture."

"Mother!" Persephone complained.

Hades drew his sword, a double-edged Stygian blade etched with silver.

"Oh great, he did finish that," Thalia voiced her mild disgust she'd held in at the time.

"You know, to be fair to him," Alex offered, "at least he decided to show it off now when he was least likely for the other gods to have a fit over it."

"I guess," Thalia agreed it had still been a terrible idea on Persephone's part.

"Did anyone ever thank you for design rights on that?" Will asked Nico in amusement.

Nico gave a sardonic laugh as answer and Will wasn't even surprised.

Annabeth at least knew of this story, Percy had given her a brief summary anyways about the potential problems in his next IM, but the fact that they all seemed to know about it made her eyes dart again with envy to the other books she'd missed out on. The jealousy that they all knew parts of Percy's life better than her when she'd held that position for so long before Rachel had seemed to push her out.

She knew in her head it was ridiculous and unfounded to feel this way, but she still tightened her hand in Percy's and sighed in relief when he returned the feeling.

"Now fight me! For today the House of Hades will be called the saviors of Olympus."

"I don't have time for this," Kronos snarled.

"He'll make time," Jason said viciously. Nico and Pluto had been ignored to long. He felt a burst of pride and was restraining himself from hugging Nico for managing to do this.

He struck the ground with his scythe. A crack spread in both directions, circling the Empire State Building. A wall of force shimmered along the fissure line, separating Kronos's vanguard, my friends, and me from the bulk of the two armies.

"What's he doing?" I muttered.

"Sealing us in," Thalia said. "He's collapsing the magic barriers around Manhattan—cutting off just the building, and us."

Sure enough, outside the barrier, car engines revved to life. Pedestrians woke up and stared uncomprehendingly at the monsters and zombies all around them. No telling what they saw through the Mist, but I'm sure it was plenty scary. Car doors opened. And at the end of the block, Paul Blofis and my mom got out of their Prius.

Percy's heart crawled into his throat. He wished Nico would return the favor right about now and jab a sword into his throat, that would feel less painful than this. How Paul would have looked around and seen their home destroyed, much like Percy had once done to his school. He'd know immediately this was all Percy's fault, because he hadn't been able to stop this.

And his mom...gods his mom had finally crossed the line right into his world. Last time she'd been face to face with a monster, it had been Hades to drag her down into his domain in a shower of gold. The Minotaur showing up yesterday, then Hades showing up now, it was all coming back a little to easily. Like he should have felt the rain pounding down around him and Grover bleating for food.

"No," I said. "Don't . . ."

My mother could see through the Mist. I could tell from her expression that she understood how serious things were. I hoped she would have the sense to run. But she locked eyes with me, said something to Paul, and they ran straight toward us.

Percy was shaking his head slowly from side to side, wishing he could deny those words existed, that if he closed his eyes long enough he could imagine them getting back in their car and driving away to safety with no more dents in it thanks to him.

I couldn't call out. The last thing I wanted to do was bring her to Kronos's attention.

Fortunately, Hades caused a distraction.

"I think I finally forgave your dad at that moment," Percy tried to mutter loud enough Nico could hear, but he knew how faint his voice sounded. The blood rushing through his ears made everything seem quieter.

Nico heard him and smiled. Maybe next time Percy wouldn't try to lop off his head if they needed to visit the Underworld again.

He charged at the wall of force, but his chariot crashed against it and overturned. He got to his feet, cursing, and blasted the wall with black energy. The barrier held.

That was still pretty terrifying on many levels, Magnus decided, only minorly pleased he wasn't shaking in a ball of fright at that much power being thrown around. It helped to remember that they, at least their kids, could use that power for good. That Hades was actually trying to help.

But still his skin crawled and he rubbed his hands together at the idea of how much power Kronos had put into that holding Annabeth inside. Had Luke ever stood a chance once the Lord of Time decided he'd found his host body?

"ATTACK!" he roared.

The armies of the dead clashed with the Titan's monsters. Fifth Avenue exploded into absolute chaos.

Mortals screamed and ran for cover. Demeter waved her hand and an entire column of giants turned into a wheat field. Persephone changed the dracaenae's spears into sunflowers.

Thalia couldn't help a laugh of revenge for those two turning that power on the right enemy. It wouldn't stop them doing it to her again in the future if she ticked them off, but it was nice to know they didn't reserve that for her.

Nico slashed and hacked his way through the enemy, trying to protect the pedestrians as best he could.

It was such a small detail for Percy to notice during the melee, but Will smiled that he had. Not that Nico was just fighting the monsters, but that the was ducking in the way of the people running, to get at certain monsters and keep their attention.

My parents ran toward me, dodging monsters and zombies, but there was nothing I could do to help them.

"Nakamura," Kronos said. "Attend me. Giants—deal with them."

He pointed at my friends and me. Then he ducked into the lobby.

"He what?" Jason demanded, looking as offended as if someone had ripped his shirt away. "He, delegated out, that's not, he-"

"If Percy wasn't going to kill him before, he definitely will now. Boy hates to feel dismissed," Thalia chuckled in agreement.

For a second I was stunned. I'd been expecting a fight, but Kronos completely ignored me like I wasn't worth the trouble. That made me mad.

"Yep, there it is," Annabeth smiled along as Percy clutched his pen and looked as likely to throw it at Luke's head as he would lop it off as Riptide.

The first Hyperborean giant smashed at me with his club. I rolled between his legs and stabbed Riptide into his backside. He shattered into a pile of ice shards. The second giant breathed frost at Annabeth, who was barely able to stand, but Grover pulled her out of the way while Thalia went to work.

She sprinted up the giant's back like a gazelle, sliced her hunting knives across his monstrous blue neck, and created the world's largest headless ice sculpture.

"A very niche talent I'm sure you'll find a market for," Alex chuckled.

"I'll ask Sally if she knows any places still looking for morbid pieces," she grinned.

I glanced outside the magic barrier. Nico was fighting his way toward my mom and Paul, but they weren't waiting for help.

Percy had never given someone such a grateful look in his life. Nico just dipped his head in understanding. He could count on one hand the amount of mortals he knew. He'd defend Paul and Sally as he would any of those people fleeing on the street, but just as he knew he'd instinctively throw his power around Will again if he sensed danger, he'd go out of his way to keep an eye on two people that had shown him such rare kindness.

Paul grabbed a sword from a fallen hero and did a pretty fine job keeping a dracaena busy. He stabbed her in the gut, and she disintegrated.

"Going commando indeed," Alex murmured in appreciation in the deafening silence of the room. How did things always keep managing to get worse around here that made her feel better, high on that kind of chaotic power?

"Paul?" I said in amazement.

He turned toward me and grinned. "I hope that was a monster I just killed. I was a Shakespearian actor in college! Picked up a little swordplay!"

Magnus had a very intense look on his face as he waved his hands around for a moment. If that wasn't the sign for 'mental pain,' it should be.

"What did he think he stabbed if not a monster?" Jason asked in droll amusement.

"Acting apparently teaches you a hell of a lot more interesting skills than I ever thought," Nico chuckled.

"Hence the plays are such a big hit, the kids really get into those sword moves they practice," Will beamed.

Percy groaned and flipped Will off while Magnus just jabbed at Jason that had been his personal ire here and Annabeth smiled fondly for them. She had a pretty good guess what mortals saw in place of monsters, and it was usually bad enough they didn't want their normal kids around it.

I liked him even better for that, but then a Laistrygonian giant charged toward my mom. She was rummaging around in an abandoned police car—maybe looking for the emergency radio—and her back was turned.

"Mom!" I yelled.

She whirled when the monster was almost on top of her. I thought the thing in her hands was an umbrella until she cranked the pump and the shotgun blast blew the giant twenty feet backward, right into Nico's sword.

"Team work!" Will whooped with joy, nearly crushing Nico's neck he jumped so much in place.

"We really should look into putting a gun range around camp or something, that thing worked like a charm, though it was a bit to loud to be practical in our line of work," Nico smiled as he wrapped his fingers securely around Will's arm to relieve the pressure but keep him there.

"Chiron's going to invest in my catapult idea one day, slingshot them at minimum after this," Alex nodded with confidence.

"Nice one," Paul said.

"When did you learn to fire a shotgun?" I demanded.

My mom blew the hair out of her face. "About two seconds ago. Percy, we'll be fine. Go!"

Somehow that made it more terrifying and hilarious as Annabeth slumped over in her seat laughing like she hadn't been able to. Percy put his arm back around her and shook his head in exasperation. Next chapter of his life his mom might teach him how to be the Lone Ranger and he'd feel the same about that as he did now. At least Annabeth would get some bonding out of it. If she wasn't worried about this, than he knew he'd come back down from that building and his parents were going to be okay.

"Yes," Nico agreed, "we'll handle the army. You have to get Kronos!"

"Come on, Seaweed Brain!" Annabeth said. I nodded. Then I looked at the rubble pile on the side of the building. My heart twisted. I'd forgotten about Chiron. How could I do that?

"Considering the last five seconds of your life," Annabeth promised as she gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek, "I don't think he'll think less of you for it."

He nodded and smiled for a moment as she leaned her forehead against him before taking a breath as he watched the last page in Thalia's hand run out of words. Gods, after all this time, he still didn't feel ready to deal with what was coming next. A final confrontation, one way or the other.

"Mrs. O'Leary," I said. "Please, Chiron's under there. If anyone can dig him out, you can. Find him! Help him!"

I'm not sure how much she understood, but she bounded to the pile and started to dig. Annabeth, Thalia, Grover, and I raced for the elevators.

"I finished," Thalia said with regret as she looked over to Nico to hand it over to him.

He frowned, hesitating to get up and take it. He'd have to drop Will's arm, though he'd put it right back when he sat down like usual.

He'd have to read about Kronos dying, a perverse pleasure he'd enjoy from anyone but him. He was already so very tired of the cosmic joke where he would apparently continue to keep getting the chapters where everyone died.

PJOPJOPJO

Not a long chapter, but easily one of my favorites of the series. Nico, Thalia, Chiron and Sally all getting such badass moments, the chaos, I really do just eat this up and come back craving more.

[brciniac]

(  savannah  lee  smith.  ciswoman.  she  +  her.  )  did  you  hear  ?  camilla  bennett  is  stuck  in  stonehaven  for  the  for  the  foreseeable  future  …  they've  lived  here  for  twenty  years  and  are  known  around  town  as  the  brainiac,  though  back  in  high  school  they  were  better  known  for  being  voted  most  likely  to  become  president.  if  i'm  not  mistaken,  they’re  a  twenty  two  year  old  junior  studying  law  (  i  really  hope  that  translates  well  into  their  role  as  an  archivist  in  the  ‘new  world'  ).  according  to  my  records  they  were  originally  on  the  trip  because  it  would  look  good  on  their  transcript  —  which  checks  out,  given  they’re  intelligent,  adaptable  and  conceited.  if  you’re  ever  trying  to  find  them,  your  best  bet  is  to  start  at  bell’s  bookstore  and  listen  for  someone  humming  vienna  by  billy  joel.  oh,  and  don’t  forget  to  try  calling  out  cami  or  picturing  plaid  skirts  matched  with  knee  high  socks  and  a  tight  ponytail;  the  scent  of  a  freshly  opened  book;  facial  expressions  providing  enough  evidence  of  internal  monologue  with  a  silent  tongue;  the  excessive  push  to  do  better  despite  being  the  best  you  can  be.  let's  hope  the  chaos  doesn't  get  to  them.

✗     𝖲𝖳𝖠𝖳𝖨𝖲𝖳𝖨𝖢𝖲

full  name  :  camilla  penelope  bennett.  age  :  twenty  two.  birthday  :  september  18th,  2002.  astrology  :  virgo  sun,  taurus  moon  +  aries  rising.  gender  +  pronouns  :  ciswoman  /  she  +  her.  sexual  orientation  :  bisexual  +  biromantic.  spoken  languages  :  english  +  french.  height  :  5'7.  tattoos  +  piercings  :  'stay  gold'  along  the  outside  of  her  left  arm,  sunflower  on  her  right  ankle  +  cartilage  (bar),  daith  and  belly  button.  allergies  :  lactose  intolerant  +  peanuts.  addictions  :  n/a.  drug  /  alcohol  use  :  both  socially  but  rarely  uses  drugs.  family  tree  :  jonathan  bennett  (father),  violet  bennett  (mother).  character  inspo  :  spencer  hastings  (pretty  little  liars),  rory  gilmore  (gilmore  girls),  monica  geller  (friends).

✗     𝖡𝖨𝖮𝖦𝖱𝖠𝖯𝖧𝖸

a  patient  child,  a  child  that  her  parents  never  thought  would  enter  the  world,  but  that  never  stunted  any  sense  of  love  they  had  for  their  daughter.  that  was  their  pride  and  joy,  someone  that  they  held  close  to  their  heart.  father  holding  her  up  to  show  everyone  in  his  agency  while  mother  would  pride  herself  with  photos  are  her  office.  camilla  bennett  knew  nothing  but  the  spotlight,  from  the  moment  she  was  wrapped  tightly  in  a  bundle  and  put  into  the  arms  of  her  mother.  

it  didn't  help  that  growing  up  meant  everything  was  a  competition.  if  cami  was  tired,  her  father  was  more  tired  from  running  an  agency  with  himself  and  only  himself.  if  she  had  a  headache,  her  mothers  body  ached  since  giving  birth.  once  old  enough  to  push  back  to  their  ideals,  she  was  no  longer  the  daughter  of  their  dreams;  they  saw  her  as  someone  they  needed  to  compete  with.  bringing  home  the  best  grades  in  the  class  wasn't  enough  because  she  could've  studied  harder  and  gotten  extra  points  if  she  dedicated  herself  enough.

she  tried  to  be  the  best  daughter,  bringing  him  the  best  grades,  having  outstanding  recommendations  and  even  joining  every  extracurricular  that  they  wanted  her  to  join.  she  was  burning  herself  out  at  the  age  of  fifteen,  struggling  to  stay  awake  during  the  days  and  drinking  coffee  late  into  the  evening  so  she  could  get  extra  hours  of  sleep  in  the  evenings.  but  it  never  seemed  like  it  was  enough,  her  father  saying  her  last  goal  could've  been  smoother  and  her  mother  critiquing  every  landing  she  would  make  during  gymnastics  or  ballet.

anxiety  became  her  best  friend;  biting  down  on  nails,  pulling  at  the  skin  that  was  chapped  on  her  lips,  pulling  at  her  cuticles  and  having  to  suck  the  blood  afterwards.  busying  herself  with  multiple  things  was  the  only  thing  that  could  support  the  internal  storm  brewing  …  that  was  until  she  hit  a  full  burnout.  having  fainted  in  the  hallway  at  school  due  to  dehydration  and  stress,  causing  her  parents  to  finally  get  forced  into  their  roles  of  parental  figures  …  and  mandatory  family  therapy  for  camilla  to  open  up  about  the  stress.

despite  having  to  take  many  steps  back  (no  more  ballet,  no  more  debate  and  drama,  no  more  working  overtime  and  studying  in  the  backroom),  she  didn’t  hesitate  to  submit  her  application  for  college  the  moment  she  was  able  to  with  her  transcript.  and  it  also  didn’t  stop  her  from  applying  to  one  of  the  most  competitive  programs  :  pre-law,  with  the  hopes  to  continue  into  their  law  program  and  follow  in  her  fathers  footsteps.

pre-law  had  been  something  that  she  fully  enjoyed,  even  though  there  was  so  much  to  do.  with  her  parents  constantly  checking  in,  there  was  obvious  worry  that  she  would  overwork  herself  once  again;  being  on  the  student  union,  debate  club  and  working  as  a  tutor  as  well  as  in  the  schools  bookstore  halftime  —  but  the  difference  between  then  and  now  …  cami  felt  in  her  element  and  did  not  find  herself  overstressing  over  the  small  things.

signing  up  for  the  trip  wasn’t  something  that  was  shocking  for  someone  like  cami;  although  the  panic  began  to  set  in  the  moment  realization  set  in  that  they  were  on  their  own.  cuticles  once  again  beginning  to  become  sore  from  picking,  anxiety  rising  as  each  second  passes  and  overworking  herself  seem  like  the  only  way  to  actually  handle  the  situation.

✗     𝖢𝖮𝖭𝖭𝖤𝖢𝖳𝖨𝖮𝖭𝖲

confidant  /  person  [  0/1  ]  :  heavily  based  off  meredith/alex  or  cristina/meredith  where  these  two  are  closer  than  best  friends.  platonic  soulmates  that  know  that  there  is  never  going  to  be  judging  of  the  other.  these  two  are  each  others  rock  and  they  listen  and  don’t  judge.

the  one  that  got  away  [  0/1  ]  :  based  off  normal  people.  these  two  have  always  had  feelings  for  one  another  but  their  timing  is  constantly  off.  if  one  isn’t  in  a  relationship,  there’s  a  situation  stunting  them  from  actually  being  together;  right  timing  is  never  there  for  an  official  title,  but  that  doesn’t  stop  them  from  grasping  onto  each  other  when  there’s  a  moment  they  can  both  fall  into  the  sheets  and  act  like  things  are  fine

sibling  -  like  friendships  [  1/?  ]  :  cami’s  an  only  child,  this  person  would  definitely  be  someone  that  takes  cami  under  their  wing.  they’re  protective  of  each  other  but  they  also  know  when  to  keep  things  secret  to  one  another  for  their  own  sanity.

competitors  [  0/2  ]  :  think  rory  and  paris.  they  are  unlikely  friends,  and  most  days,  they  aren’t  friends  but  they  push  each  other  in  the  best  ways;  a  friendly  competition  that  pushes  them  to  be  the  best  they  can  be.

ex  friends  [  1/1  ]  :  serena  and  blair  coded  …  cami  is  a  very  flaky  person  once  her  anxiety  kicks  in  and  this  person  was  someone  that  she  loved  dearly,  however  that  didn’t  stop  her  from  pushing  them  away.  details  can  be  plots   /   mari  flores  !

other  plots  i’d  like  :  exes  on  good  terms,  exes  on  bad  terms,  friends  /  enemies  with  benefits,  friends,  people  that  she  tutors,  roommate,  first  love,  unrequited  crush  (on  either  side),  enemies  !  

[kotylynnemerrill]

Alrighty y'all! Another chapter down - wahoo!

Can't believe I'm already on chapter 9. Thank you all for your support and for liking my story. I really appreciate it.

I need to get some cute 60s date ideas from y'all LOL. So if y'all have any suggestions hit me up!

Your Words I Hold Forever Ch. 9

September 13th, 1968  3:50 pm

Lexi looked at herself in the full-length mirror, slid her hands down the cream-colored shirt she had put on and let out a long sigh.  The small swell mocked her as she gave it a light tap with her fingers.

She half-heartedly hoped she would feel something as she gently put pressure against the bump, but there was nothing – she knew there wouldn’t be. She was around 16 weeks according to her last appointment…still a little early.

The doctor had told her, much to her disappointment, that first-time mothers often don’t feel anything until after twenty weeks.

Lexi let her hand drop with another sigh and made her way over to her bed.  She picked up the neatly folded burgundy cardigan off the foot of the bed and put it on.  Her lips turned downward.  Less than a second and her body felt like it was on fire, and it would only get worse when she stepped outside since it was still pretty warm in the early afternoon.

Frustrated, she took the cardigan off and tossed it back onto the bed.  She walked over to the mirror and checked her reflection again, feeling a little defeated.

She was due to be at Kitty’s around 5:00 for dinner, something that was now routine for her on Saturdays. She just prayed that when she got to the apartment Kitty and Ash wouldn’t notice the extra fullness around her middle.

She wasn’t mentally prepared to have that conversation with them yet.  While she loved them both, there was a part of her that felt like she was still feeling out the boundaries of their relationship.  Hell, it had taken Ash six months before he finally started to open up to her.

Fez being drafted was a big shock in itself.  One surprise at a time…

“Well…do you think we could get away with not wearing the cardigan?” Lexi asked placing her palm flat against her stomach.  The shirt was flowy around the middle, but she couldn’t deny that she was showing.

Maybe she should take the cardigan after all.

The familiar sound of the door clicking open suddenly sounded.

“Lexi?”

Her head jerked up to see Suze in the mirror’s reflection, standing in the doorway behind her, wide eyes fixed on her…fixed on where her hand rested. There was confusion in Suze’s eyes for a split second, but then her features shifted, her mouth forming a slight ‘o’.

She knows.

Lexi’s own mouth was parted, words trapped on the tip of her tongue. She could feel the blood drain from her face and an unpleasant, cool tingling sensation spread down to her toes.

“Mom, I…”

“Meet me downstairs, Alexandra.” There was no anger in Suze’s voice as she spoke, but a tension, like a taut rubber band that would snap with the slightest touch. She glanced up for a brief moment, her expression unreadable before turning and making her way back down the stairs.

Lexi closed her eyes as her throat started to constrict. She knew this day was coming, had mapped out every word she would say to her mother, but now her throat just bobbed painfully as she tried to swallow.

Suze was sitting at the dining room table when Lexi finally made her way downstairs. Her elbows were resting on the table and her hands were clasped together and pressed to her mouth. A freshly poured glass of wine in front of her along with a half empty bottle.

She didn’t say anything as Lexi cautiously approached, pulled out a chair opposite her and sat down.

Her mouth and throat worked against each other for a moment before she could finally form any words.

“Mom?” She took a shuttering breath, and her head dropped forward. “Mom I…I don’t…”

“Alexandra,” Suze moved her clasped hands down and away from her mouth, “I’m gonna ask you once…only once, and please don’t lie to me. Are you –”

“I’m pregnant.” Lexi blurted out, no point in sugar coating it.  One quick maneuver of the tongue and vocal cords, and it was done – out in the open.

Lexi was surprised how steady her voice sounded, and she waited for the relief to come.  It didn’t.

She risked a glance at her mother and instantly felt her stomach drop.

The inner corners of Suze’s eyebrows angled upward and there was a slight tremor in her hands.  She took a shaky breath before picking up the glass and taking a long drink.

She set the glass down, stared at it for a split second, then picked it back up again and took another impressive drink before setting it down once more.

“I knew it. I knew something was wrong.” She was pointing at Lexi now. “I just… didn’t think it was…this.” Suze let her hands fall to the table, fixing Lexi with a hard stare. “I mean, I knew you weren’t going to Rue’s all those times. I’m not stupid Alexandra. I mean…I…this is something I’d expect from your sister – not you. How did you let this happen?  And you’re such a smart girl – what about college?”

“I’m sorry…believe me this is not –”

“That is where you’ve been going right…to see ‘him’? Who is he? Does he know about…” Suze motioned towards Lexi’s stomach. She scoffed, suddenly squeezing her eyes shut. Her hands clenched into fists, unclenched, and clenched again as she controlled her breathing. She picked the wine glass up and finished it off with a swift toss of her head.

Lexi's stomach churned uneasily as her mother set the now empty glass down with a clunk and pushed it aside.

“His name is Fezco…and yes, he knows. Or he will…soon.”

“What do you mean?” Suze narrowed her eyes. “You have told him, right? I mean Jesus Christ Alexandra…”

“I wrote him.”

“You wrote him?” Suze’s eyes widened, and she didn’t even bother to hide the incredulity in her voice. She took another deep breath after a few moments. “Okay…while I appreciate your flair for writing, this is probably something you should have talked to him about in person.

“I can’t… he’s…”

She couldn’t finish her sentence, as if those last few words were the hammer and nail in his coffin.  Lexi wrapped her arms around her stomach, a pointless effort to self-soothe.

“You can’t – why? Did he step out on you…break up with you?”

Lexi slowly shook her head.

“He was drafted…left four months ago…it was the only way I could tell him.”

“Four months? So exactly how…how far along…”

“Four months…give or take.”

“Alexandra…you’ve been hiding this…for four months?  Alexandra, please look at me!”

“I can’t…”

“Lexi…” Suze’s voice softened “Lexi baby, I’m sorry. I know you didn’t mean for this to happen, and I have no doubt you’re very scared right now.  I’m truly sorry, but we need to take care of this and soon – you don’t realize how hard it is to –”

A match lit in Lexi, and it burned and boiled her insides.  She looked up at her mother and the words tumbled out of her mouth…she didn’t care if they hurt.

“It can’t be any harder than taking care of you and Cassie.  Dealing with this.” Lexi inclined her head towards the wine bottle.

Suze leaned back in her seat; her blue eyes fixed on Lexi. “Alexandra…don’t you dare!  Now is not the time to shoot your mouth off or point fingers. You are in no position. This is not about me right now or Cassie.” Suze blew out a big breath of air, composing herself.

“Now I know it’s been hard for you…it’s been hard for Cassie too – for all of us.  And I know I’ve not been as good a mother as I should be.  I’ve not dealt with things, okay? I’m not making excuses, but –”

“That’s putting it lightly.”

“Alexandra…”

“I’m keeping the baby.” Lexi bit out with finality.

“Alexandra, you’re not ready for what that means… you’re seventeen years old… you’re too –”

“For almost four years I’ve been making sure this household runs smoothly.  Paying the bills, cleaning, making dinner – all on top of school – without complaint or judgment.  Don’t tell me how hard it’s going to be.  Don’t tell me I’m too young.  I’ve been grown-up enough for all of us - for years.”

“What’s your plan then? Hmmm?  How are you going to handle college while taking care of a baby – that is, if you still go. Where are you going to live? What are you going to do for money?  Fuck Alexandra!” Suze threw her hands up. “How well do you even know this boy?  Is he going to marry you? What if he doesn’t make it back – have you thought about that? What if he’s dead? I don’t mean to be cruel but if he –”

“Stop…just stop.” Lexi’s fists were balled at her side.  “It’s all I’ve been thinking about these past few months! Every time I get a letter, I worry if it’s the last one.  When the phone rings, I pray it’s not his grandmother calling with terrible news.”  Lexi’s throat bobbed, swallowing the emotion lodged in her throat. “So, yes, to answer your question. Every day…I think about it every day.”

“Lexi…”

“And no, I don’t know what I’m gonna do. I don’t have it all figured out yet.  I’ve got to try though…for him…without him.” Lexi placed her hands on the small swell where her baby lay, her and Fez’s baby. “If I lose Fez – I can’t lose this too, I’ll go crazy.”

“Lexi, I know…I know that’s how you feel now but…”

Lexi shook her head “It’s not like that… For the first time in my life, I’m certain. And it feels right. I love him, and I want to keep this baby.  There’s no other option for me.”

“Lexi…Jesus, I…” Suze’s head bowed slightly.

“Look, I can do this…I know I can.” Lexi straightened in her seat. “And I’m still going to go to college. It will have to wait of course, but I’m gonna go. I’m still set on that. I’m making money at the store…and if need be, I can find a place to live…I can do this.”

Every fiber of her being was trying to convey how she was feeling…trying to get her mother to understand.  Suze was looking at Lexi, holding her gaze but, she could tell, as her mother’s fingers fidgeted with the stem of the empty wine glass, what was coming next.

“Lexi, I just…I can’t do this.  I’m not in the right frame of…I can’t…I can’t help you, I’m sorry.”

“I’m not asking for your help financially. I just…if I lose him…I’m going to need your support. I’m gonna need you – my mom.  For once…please, can you –“

“Baby I really wish I could do that for you, but I can’t.”

“I’ve never asked you for much – ever, and…you won’t even try?” Her voice became a whisper and her heart sank like bits of a ship to the bottom of the sea.

“I’m not gonna watch you destroy your life. I can’t. You can stay until you find somewhere…or leave – do whatever you want.  I just, I can’t do this.”

“You can’t do this?” Lexi could feel the tears coming again. “I don’t know why I even thought…Why can’t you just be my mother?” She pleaded, voice cracking.

“I’m sorry…” A tear slid down Suze’s cheek. “I’m so sorry, Lexi…”

“Okay…” Lexi looked at her mother, eyes heavy with resignation. “I’m sorry too,” she whispered, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. There was nothing else to say. Suze clasped a hand to her mouth and her eyes closed tightly.

Slowly scooting her seat back, Lexi got up and walked to the front door without pausing, took a hold of the door handle and rotated it. “I’ve gotta go. I’ll grab some of my stuff when I get back.”

“Lexi, please…”

With that she pushed the door open and walked out.

She grabbed her bike from where it was leaning against the railing of the steps.  She hiked her leg over the seat and began pedaling as fast as she could.

Stop crying. Stop crying. Stop crying.  She chanted it over and over as tears stung her eyes and rolled down her cheeks.

* * * *

Lexi sat outside on the familiar concrete steps for at least fifteen minutes before she finally stood up and knocked on the door.

“Yo, who is it?” The voice on the other side was annoyed, and, if Lexi hadn’t known who it belonged to, she might have been a little nervous. 

“It’s just me, Ash.” Lexi replied, hating that her voice sounded thick and raspy.

“You’re early,” Ash pointed out as he opened the door, his gruff features softening upon seeing Lexi’s face still red and slightly puffy.

“You been cryin’?”  Suddenly his brows lowered, and his face slackened. “It’s not…”

“No! No, nothing like that.” Lexi exclaimed, realizing what he was thinking. “I’m sorry, I just…is Kitty busy?”

“She’s inside, still cooking.” He motioned with a tilt of his head towards the kitchen and stepped aside to let Lexi through.

“What’s goin’ on with you?” he asked, shutting the door.

“It’s noth – I just really need to talk to Kitty about something,” Lexi replied as she walked through the small hallway and into the dining room.  The sudden smell of onion and garlic assaulted her nose as she neared the kitchen, making her stomach contract.  Her hand flew to her mouth, and she let out a stifled moan.

"Hey, you good?" Ash asked, his normally brusque voice now sounded worried.

Her hand reached out to a small key table situated against the wall to their left and she braced herself as another wave of nausea hit her.

“Yeah, I just need a minute.”

“Ash? Who’s at the door?” Kitty’s husky voice called from the kitchen.  Lexi could hear the loud clank of something metal being set down, followed by what was probably the oven door being shut and her stomach lurched again.

“It’s Lexi. I don’t think she’s doing too good. Yo, you need a trash can, yo face straight up green.”

“I’ll be okay, just give me a sec,” Lexi reiterated.

She walked back towards the dining room, over to the table, and pulled out one of the chairs.  She slowly sank down into it and closed her eyes, placing a hand to her abdomen.

“Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four, feel your abdomen expand, hold your breath for two seconds, then exhale slowly and steadily through your mouth for a count of six.”

“Whatchu sayin’?”

Lexi ignored Ash and repeated the process, just as the doctor had instructed. She began to inhale again when something landed next to her on the table  with a clack.

“Here, these will help.”

Lexi slowly opened her eyes to see Kitty standing next to her, wiping her hands off on a towel.  Once done, she folded it and tossed it on the table next to an open package of saltines.

She pulled out the chair next to Lexi and sat down. “Looks like we need to talk, huh?”

Lexi nodded.

“Am I missing something?”

“Okay,” Kitty said with a sigh before addressing Ash. “Hey Ash, beat it for a minute. Okay kid?  I’ll come get you when we’re done talking girly things, alright?”

Ash mumbled something under his breath, before making his way down the hall where the bedrooms were and turning into the second door on the left.  Not so gently, he shut the door, and soon faint music could be heard playing.

“Okay doll…give it to me straight. No need to get all fancy with it.”

“I’m pregnant…I didn’t want you to find out like this. I wanted to tell you sooner, but I’m a coward and I’m sorry.  Now my mom has found out, and I can’t stay there and…I don’t know what the fuck I’m going to do – I don’t have anything figured out!  I wrote to Fez, but it’s going to be another two weeks at least before I get a response – if I get one…”

She couldn’t stop the tears even if she tried.

“I’m trying to figure out what to do and I can’t. I can’t…if he…if he doesn’t come back…what are we going to do…what am I going to do?”

She couldn’t breathe.

“I don’t know what to do. And I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner.  I’m sorry.  I’m sorry.”

“Lexi, you need to breathe.  Breathe.”

Lexi gulped in air and tried to calm herself.  Her chest heaved painfully, and her vision began to blur. 

Kitty pulled Lexi into her side and wrapped her arms around her.

“Just breath, doll.  You’ll be alright.  Listen to me okay,” Kitty spoke evenly. “No matter what happens, you got me and Ash.  You got this place.  And you can work at the store.  You’ll figure it out. I promise.”

Lexi covered her face with her hands and took several deep breaths, repeating the sequence she had done earlier. 

Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.

Kitty rubbed small circles on Lexi’s back and soon her breathing evened out.  She slowly lifted her head, letting her hands rest in her lap.

“Okay, now that you’re not blubbering, start talking. This happened when?”

With a sigh, she lifted her hand and reached out, plucking a pale cracker from the plastic package. “Before he left for Oklahoma.”

“And, judging by the tiny bump, does that mean…”

“I wanna keep it,” Lexi replied, nibbling on the saltine.

“And…you’re sure that’s what you want?”

Lexi nodded.

“There’s no take backs.  You do this…you made your bed and you gotta lay in it.”

Lexi nodded again, finishing off the cracker.

Kitty sighed.  “Okay. Signed and sealed – it’s done.  I think you’re both idiots, letting this happen.  I gotta say it, you hear me?  We will continue this conversation later and, by the grace of God, if Snowflake makes it home, he’s gonna get an earful too.”

“I really am sorry. We didn’t…”

“You weren’t thinking. Not with your heads at least. Not with the head that counts anyway.”

“Oh God…it wasn’t even like that.  I mean…it was, but…I had just found the draft card, and I was upset, and he was trying to calm me down. It just…”

“I get it.”

“We really didn’t mean for this to happen.”

“Well, can’t say I didn’t warn him.  He’s just like his mother…heart’s too big.  He tries to shield it, but he can’t help it.”

Lexi’s brows rose at the mention of Fez’s mother. A mystery he had kept tight-lipped about.  She knew he had lost her when he was young under ‘suspicious’ circumstances and that it was a part of his life he didn’t like to revisit.

“What was she like…Angela?  Is it okay that I…?”

“Yeah, you can ask.  She was a redhead, gorgeous and sweet. Too sweet.  A lot of people took advantage of that…especially that piece of shit Paulie.  She was young when she had Fez…young like I had been.” Kitty gave a small smile. “You know, maybe it wasn’t such a big deal back in my day. A lot of us got married young, right out of school, and started having kids.  But when Angela came to me crying that she was in love and expecting, I didn’t want to hear it…and then I met the bastard. No matter what I said, I couldn’t change her mind.  I was so mad.” She shook her head, and her jaw clenched. “Then Fez came…prettiest baby I ever saw… just beautiful and sweet, like his mama.”

“Fez doesn’t talk about her really. I know he was young when…”

“Yeah, about three or so. They ruled it an accident, but from the first day she showed up with bruises, I knew it was just a matter of time.”

“I’m sorry…”

“Well, there’s nothing to do about it now. I got him out of there though…away from that asshole. Maybe didn’t give him the best life…he’s had to do some hard things, but he’s nothing but good.  He'll do right by you two."  Kitty bumped Lexi’s knee with her own. “And don’t worry…your mom will come around. Just give her time.”

“Yeah…”

“You going home tonight?”

“I…no, I honestly don’t want to. I need to get some of my things but…”

“Stay here. We’ll get you some supper.  I’ll get an old t-shirt and some sweats from Fez’s drawer and lay them out for you.  Then, if you want, in the morning we’ll go get some of your things.”

“You don’t need to do that…”

“Go get you some food.  I’ll get you some night clothes.” Kitty commanded.  She got up out of her seat and sauntered down the hall to the room across from where Ash had disappeared.

Lexi’s stomach growled loudly at the mention of food, and she took that as her cue.  The turbulence in her stomach had finally dissipated, and the smell from the kitchen was literally making her mouth water.

She got up from the table and started to move towards the kitchen when she felt it.  She paused and placed a hand on her stomach. Surely, she was imagining it.  Then it happened again…a tiny flutter like popcorn popping.

Her lips stretched across her face into a wide smile.

Kitty walked back into the dining room, and Lexi excitedly motioned for her to come over. “Hey! Come here.”

“What’s got you in a good mood all of a sudden?”

“Just come here.”

Lexi grabbed Kitty’s hand when she got close enough and pressed it to her stomach.

“I don’t know if you’ll be able to feel it, but…I think I just felt the baby.”

“Are you sure? I’m not gonna be able to feel anything, it’s still too early…but what are you feeling?”  Her hand moved over the small swell.

“Yeah…it kinda feels like popcorn popping.” Lexi laughed.  “Is it…what was it like for you, I mean, the first time?”

“Trippy as hell.  Like I had literal butterflies fluttering around in my stomach.”

“Hey is dinner ready or…,” Ash paused, his eyebrows arched, seeing Kitty with her hand on Lexi’s stomach. “What are you doing?”

“Ash, mind your business and set the table please.”

He took the scene in for another second before realization hit.  He cocked his head slightly, his narrowed eyes focused on Lexi in utter disbelief.  He then turned to Kitty.

Lexi held her breath, eyes wide and eyebrows raised, as one of Kitty’s brows arched in response, daring the young teen to say something. After what seemed like an eternity, Ash backed down and shook his head.

“Y’all crazy if you think I’m gonna babysit. He can bring his ass back from the dead…”

“Ash – plates – now.  I’ll talk to you about what’s going on later.”

Ash was still mumbling as he walked toward the kitchen.

“I guess now you know what you’ve got to look forward to,” Kitty ribbed.

“I can’t wait,” Lexi replied, her tone bland, but, as Kitty turned to follow Ash into the kitchen, her lips twitched upward into a smile.

[arielstruggles]

Mr. Miller Says

Pairing: no outbreak au!Joel Miller x fem reader

w.c: 1.4k

warning: slight smut (mdni), sext, dirty talk, implied masturbation, no use of y/n, age gap (reader in her early twenties, but she still lives with her parents because duh economy!. joel is in his late thirties), idk i think that's all.

a/n: I'm in my Joel Miller thirst era so i can't think of anyone except for him. And for this one i specifically thought game Joel but there is not much character description so it's all good.. Also, any feedback is appreciated! Enjoy!!!

"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck..." you almost scream while walking up and down in your room. "This must be a nightmare!" you hiss to yourself. Then you decide to take the phone, your phone, that you threw across the room once you realized you accidentally sent the picture to your neighbor, Joel Miller. You feel as if embarrassment takes over your whole body, blood runs cold in your veins. You were supposed to send a picture to your friend. Instead, you sent it to Joel Miller. Another curse leaves your lips when you hear your mom knocks on your door. "Are you coming to dinner?" your mom asks "no". You hear her sigh but tonight she decides to not to force you. The notification sound from your phone jerks you awake from your thoughts. You are so stressed that you can hear your heartbeats loud and clear. But it was just a random text from a local store, informing you about upcoming sales as if you care at the moment. When you checked his house, it seemed as if nobody's home so maybe he did not even see it because he was busy. But he will eventually, maybe he won’t… Your thoughts don’t give you a break. You send him an explanation text, saying you were sending it to your friend and it was a mistake. He should believe you, but it was a picture of you in a pretty, lacey bra that you just bought. "He is a nice guy and he also has a daughter. I'm sure he would not mind." you think, trying to calm yourself down.

Every ten minutes you go to the window that shows you a view of Joel Miller's garage and you check out if his truck is in there. The panic you're going through is so unbearable at this point. You decide to check your phone to see if he responded or blocked you, he does nothing… You feel like a creep. Then you hear the sound of a car and run towards your window, to sneakily get a glimpse of him. He parks his car and gets off the car. He is so handsome with his greying dark hair, his greying beard and his hazel eyes... You realize he checks out his phone and a part of you wants a response. You realize, you're anxious not because you accidentally sent him a picture of you in a bra, but because you're not sure if he'll like you or not. He enters his house and closes the door; you feel like you caught a smirk on his lips but you're not sure since it’s dark outside. He does not reply your picture. That feels worse than him seeing the picture. You clearly want his attention now.

He always caught your eye with his broad and handsome figure. Especially playing his guitar in the yard or carving wooden figures in his garage, muscles all flexed in his arms... You feel like a pervert. Is this count as stalking? Nah, you did not mean any harm. He just caught your eye. You sleep with the thoughts in your head. He sees the picture the moment you sent and then the apology text. At first, he wants to say it’s alright shit happens. But he's busy and he forgets it until he comes back home and sees you peeking a glance at him through the window. He decides to have some fun instead. You are a hot young woman and he is a single, lonely dad after all.

The next morning your parents leave the house since they have their jobs and you are a freshly graduated, unemployed daughter of them. When you walk to kitchen you sneakily throw a glance at his house and catch a glimpse of him in his yard. You decide to wear a nice tennis skirt you bought; you never had a chance to wear it since it was really short with a matching underwear to the bra that you sent a picture to him. Unfortunately, everything you need at that moment is in your garage and Joel Miller has to see you bouncing here and there with your mini tennis skirt and your bra. It is risky what you're doing. He may find this little show you're performing inappropriate and tell your parents what you did. Or another neighbor of yours could see you. But for once you want to act careless and stupid. He sees you very well. And he likes this little show, watching you getting all desperate for his attention. But when you bend over to take your earphones which you accidentally dropped and give him a quite a view of your thong he chokes on his coffee. You giggle quietly and decide to stop there, for now. He has to fuck his fist because of you, but you don't know it. Yet.

When your parents come back you put your mask that is specially carved for them. Involuntarily ask them about their days, in return they ask whether you plan to find a job or not which fucks up your mood. Their accusatory tone is unbearable. You want to get the hell away from this house the moment you have the chance but for now you have to answer their questions and smile kindly.

When you are finally able to go back to your room you decide to have fun with your neighbor. You take off your short and t-shirt and take a couple of pictures to send him. This time you decide to ask his opinion. "What do you think of my new lingerie, Mr. Miller?" You wait nervously, you are not even sure if he’ll respond. Then your phone buzz with notification sound "You look so pretty sweetheart. Would like to see what's underneath though." His directness excites you, that is all you need for you to send pictures of yourself to him. You immediately get rid of your underwear and take a couple of more pictures and send press without thinking too much of it. If you think, you will back down. "Oh, sweetheart. I always liked you but didn't know you are such a hidden gem." he texts back. "I'm glad you liked Mr. Miller. Maybe you can send me something in return?" you text, it surprises you how fast things goes. You're not sure if he'd do that, in your opinion it was a bold move. But he sends. A good picture of his cock in his hands. "I'd take it like a good girl Mr. miller." you press send before cringing in your words. You know for a fact you would never say those words out loud. "I know sweetheart. Your pretty, wet cunt would suffocate my cock, ain't that right?" "Yes." you never sexted before it seemed so ridiculous. But now you realize it is not, you feel you’re getting wet with each text. "Good girl." nobody ever called you a good girl before, it almost spins your head. "Mr. Miller, I want you to fuck me." you press send again, catching your flushed reflection in the mirror. "I'd love to darlin', but not now." "When?" "You'll know it." "I want to kiss you Mr. Miller." you press send again. Maybe because you feel so lonely in these days or crave attention, you push for more and more. “Me to darlin' I want to feel your plump lips on mine."  “I would like to wrap my lips around your fat cock, Mr. miller.” “Darlin’ you’re getting me all riled up. I will fuck your sweet hole at the first chance I have.” “Please do.” “Gonna make you beg.” “Give you the best head you ever had Mr. miller.”  “I need your cock Mr. Miller.” “You have to take care of yourself today darlin’” he replies and you do… You text back and forth for hours. You feel genuinely happy after such a long time. Until he texts "Sweetheart, i have to go to sleep now. We will talk later." you involuntarily pout but you can't force him to stay awake just because you feel lonely. "Good night, Joel :)" you text and he replies with a good night text. You also want to sleep, wondering whether he will text you in the morning or not but you feel your throbbing core. You reach for your drawer and take your toy and take care of yourself thinking just like Mr. Miller says.

[moonshotsx]

there was nothing left but the scent of a flower - sashnetra (flower shop au)

tattoo artist and the flower shop owner, a tale as old as time

-

"Uh, it looks like someone finally bought up the old store".

Sasha lifted her eyes from the flower arrangement she was working on when she heard her apprentice speak.

"Really?"

"A tattoo shop? That's interesting, pretty sure it's the first one in this area," Marcia continued, "Oh! Is that a duckling as a logo? That's so cute!"

"A duck as a tattoo shop logo? That's a first," Sasha commented with a chuckle, her attention back towards the job at hand. She had a few hours to finish it before the client was supposed to pick it up.

"It's got a scar over one of its eyes, to be fair, very intimidating," Marcia teased before her attention was captured by someone walking out of the shop, "Oh my god, is that the new owner? She's hot!"

That caught Sasha's attention as well.

She quickly made her way to the window where Marcia had been standing, sneaking a look over the tall apprentice.

Marcia didn't lie. A stunning brunette was just outside the building in just a white tank top and jeans. She was too far away to properly get a look at her features, but Sasha was enjoying the view regardless.

The way her muscles flexed as the mysterious woman leaned to clean the window was making her all-

"I know she's hot, but you can stop drooling on my shoulder, Sash," Marcia's voice brought her back to reality, realizing just how long she had been staring with her mouth open.

"Mind your business, girlie," she hit Marcia's shoulder playfully only prompting a laugh from the latter.

"Yes, mom," she showed her tongue before adding, "You should go greet her, you're the owner here, isn't that good etiquette?"

"We are far too busy today with all those deadlines just days away, we have at least twenty more orders to satisfy just today," Sasha reasoned as she made her way back to the flower arrangement she had been working on.

"C'mon, how long it's going to take you to say hi to her? I'll cover up for you," Marcia showed off her impeccable smile that only made the florist more suspicious.

"You being so adamant about me meeting with the new tattoo shop owner surely has nothing to do with how you were telling me to 'please get laid, you've been so stressed that I can cut your tension with a butter knife'?" Sasha made air quotes with her fingers as she repeated their conversation from the week prior.

"I don't know what you're talking about!" Marcia said in a sing-song tone, twirling around to the register.

Sasha narrowed her eyes, slightly shaking her head, "You're something else, Marsh," she exhaled loudly, "But, fine, I'll go greet her once I'm done with this arrangement. You'll take care of the register and the three clients that are supposed to pick up their orders this afternoon, got it?".

"Works for me," Marcia gave her the thumb's up before skipping her way to the back to get the already finished flower arrangements, a smirk plastered on her face.

Once left alone, Sasha sighed again, "I'm not that desperate to get laid, am I?"

-

Just a little over an hour later, Sasha found herself in front of the tattoo shop's door as she was greeted with an embossed logo on the glass and the sign 'We're Open!'.

She checked herself out for a moment on the window before walking inside, the sound of a tiny bell ringing to announce her arrival.

"Hello?"

It was clear the shop was still finishing up the last details before an official opening. Some framed pictures and artworks were leaning against the freshly unboxed furniture, ready to be nailed to the rich purple walls.

The only thing already hung up was a neon version of the duck logo Marcia had been talking about, quite the statement piece, Sasha might add.

Her snooping around was interrupted by a muted thud coming from under the desk, followed by a muttered curse.

"Are you alright, baby?" Sasha asked as she furrowed her brows.

At first only two eyes peeked from the check-in desk, one of them sporting a scar similar to the one of the duckling.

"Yep, all fine, just caught me a bit off guard while I was connecting a few cables for the computer here," the brunette from earlier started explaining and Sasha couldn't help but be fixated on her beauty.

The ticking of the wall clock laying on the couch in the entrance of the shop filled the silence left for a few moments before the tattoo artist spoke up again.

"Oh, wait, I didn't introduce myself," she blurted out, "Sorry, my mind has been all over the place, "Hi! I'm Anetra, welcome to the 'Lost Duckling' tattoo shop. How can I help you out?"

Sasha shook the extended hand, taking in the roughness of Anetra's hand and loving it.

"I'm Sasha, I own the flower shop right in front of your shop? 'Mother Flower'?" She replied with a soft smile, "I just wanted to properly welcome you in to the neighborhood".

"Oh, yeah, I saw it when I was checking out the place, you did a wonderful job with it. Even from the outside, it looks like a flower paradise!"

"I'm liking what you've done so far with your place too, 'Lost Duckling', you said?"

Anetra blushed, "Yeah, I just put together a childhood obsession with ducks and the story of my life to come up with that," she let out a nervous chuckle and scratched the back of her head.

"I never felt like I belonged growing up, you know being mixed at first, then coming out didn't help," she continued explaining herself, "So, I kind of always felt like a lost duckling trying to find my way in the world, you know?"

Before Sasha had any time to reply, Anetra shook her head, "God, I'm so sorry, trauma dumping on a first meeting isn't the best look," she whined before adding, "It's just... you got a calming aura about you, I feel like I can tell you everything," she blurted out, only to be stopped by Sasha's had on hers.

"It's okay," Sasha said, "You're not the first one to tell me that. I'm glad you feel safe around me," she paused, "I really hope that you'll find your place one day".

Anything more she wanted to add was stopped in its tracks when her phone started ringing.

Sasha looked down to see the number of one of her clients, she knew she had to answer.

"It was a pleasure to meet you, Anetra. Feel free to come by the shop any time," Sasha waved the brunette goodbye before answering her phone, "Hi, this is Sasha Colby, how can I help you?".

Anetra watched as Sasha exited her shop, giving her a tiny wave before the door closed behind her.

"Yeah, I think I might have found my place," she muttered to herself with a smile.

[wheelin-after-midnight]

55.

[One] Who is your last text from?

My mother.

[Two] What is your tumblr icon?

A picture of me.

[Three] What's your middle name?

I hate it, so I'm not sharing. Pretty sure I did on my old survey blog once or twice, but I doubt anyone remembers.

[Four] Your current relationship status?

Taken.

[Five] Does your crush like you back? No shit. I wouldn't be taken if she didn't.

[Six] What is your current mood?

Defeated. I'm just getting over several days of cluster migraines where I couldn't even keep down water and there's too much going on in my life that's absolutely breaking me right now. I'm so fucking exhausted and tired of dealing with it.

[Seven] What's your mom's name?

It doesn't matter.

[Eight] What color shirt are you wearing?

My off white gap hoodie with grey lettering.

[Ten] If you could go back in time and change something, would you?

I would go back and make it so my mother never had kids. If I couldn't do that then I'd make it so I was at least completely able bodied and healthy and had a normal, well adjusted and happy life.

[Eleven] Do you like drinking tea?

Not as much as I used to in my teens, but I don't hate tea.

[Twelve] Ever had a near death experience?

Yes.

[Thirteen] Something you do a lot?

Lately, throw up and cry. :/

[Fifteen] Who can you tell anything to?

Brittany or babe.

[Sixteen] Name someone with the same birthday as you?

My twin and one of my aunts.

[Seventeen] When was the last time you cried?

Before I started this.

[Eighteen] How many people have you kissed?

Four.

[Nineteen] If you could be one super hero, who would it be? Catwoman, maybe, if she even counts.

[Twenty] What's the first thing you notice about the opposite/same sex? When I first look at them and haven't had any other interactions, I notice hair, captivating eyes, good teeth, a nice smile, if their makeup application is nice or has anything special that stands out about it. Sometimes I notice someone's laugh. Otherwise, once we've talked and how we connect is what determines whether any of that other stuff is even still attractive to me or matters or not.

[Twenty-one] What do you usually order from Starbucks? Sometimes I change it up, I don't go often because I'm not super close to one and it's expensive as shit. Usually it's a venti iced white mocha with no whip, two sugars, three pumps of the syrup they use instead of the regular .. I believe it's six. And three hazelnut shots. When I was a vegetarian, I got it made with oat milk instead of dairy, but I don't always do that anymore.

[Twenty-two] What's your biggest secret?

Why would I tell my biggest secret to the whole tumblr community? Lmfao. If I did, it wouldn't be my biggest secret anymore.

[Twenty-three] Favorite color? Blue. Most shades.

[Twenty-five] Do you still watch kiddy movies or tv shows? On occasion.

[Twenty-six] What are you eating or drinking at the moment?

Nothing. I don't eat or drink near this tablet or bluetooth keyboard/mouse. I don't trust myself to drink around technology at all since the one time I accidentally spilled on and ruined my laptop when I was 20.

[Twenty-seven] Do you speak any other language?

Several.

[Twenty-eight] What's your favorite smell? Coffee percolating, book pages, gasoline, freshly cut grass, lilacs, my cat's fur.

[Twenty-nine] Describe your life in one word what would it be?

Turbulent. Traumatic.

[Thirty] Have you ever kissed in the rain?

Yes.

[Thirty-two] What are you thinking about right now?

Nothing I want to open up about here.

[Thirty-three] What should you be doing? Making something to eat, I guess, but I'm going to after this.

[Thirty-four] Who was the last person that made you upset/angry?

I don't wanna talk about it.

[Thirty-five] Who was the last person you kissed?

Nippy. Yes, she counts, I don't care.

[Thirty-six] Do you like working in the yard?

I physically can't, usually, depending what the task is. But if I could help and someone asked me to, I would. I don't see why they would bother, though.

[Thirty-seven] If you could have any last name in the world, what would it be?

My girlfriend's.

[Thirty-eight] Do you act differently around the person you like? Not in a bad or duplicitous way, but I'm definitely more of an open version of myself with her than others. She has more of me than basically anyone ever will. I don't have so many walls up with her.

[Thirty-nine] What is your natural hair color?

Grey if I don't dye it, now. I greyed early.

[Forty] Who was the last person to make you cry?

It wasn't a person. It was the weight of my life and situations that are happening that I can't control.

[shellys-apprentice]

What if Giovanni was too sick for Celebi to cure? What would he say to Silver?

I'm sorry, this really ran away with me~

Three days, five hours, and twenty-ish minutes.

That’s how long Silver’s had Usaring back.

How long he’s had the house key he’s silently fiddling with as he walks through the forest.

And how long Giovanni Sakaki has been dead.

If Silver lets his mind wander too much, he can still feel the moment his hand had gone unnaturally still against his cheek in Sinjoh.

(He’s trying not to think too hard about everything else that happened in the ruins. Like the fact that Giovanni didn’t need to be there. That he’d probably be fine if he’d stayed in Ilex. That if Silver wanted to be cruel and unreasonable, he could blame everything on Lance. But he won’t.)

There’s a funeral tomorrow. Arranged by someone Silver doesn’t know. Who might not even know he exists. He’d only found out because he’d happened to take the train back through Saffron. Happened to run into Sabrina in the station.

He doesn’t know if he’s going to go. Or if he should. He can show up later, when it’s over, on his own. That’s probably better, right?

What he does know is that Giovanni had pressed the key to what should have been his home into Silver’s hand before he died, while quietly telling him that Ursaring could take him home if he went to Viridian.

That everything went to him.

That he would be fine.

That all he had to do was go back to Viridian, and everything would be fine.

He can’t really find it in him to be happy about any of that.

Up ahead of him, Ursaring pushes through the undergrowth and out into a clearing, then, when Silver follows, is revealed to be the yard of the house.

She keeps plodding on through the yard, but Silver slows, taking in the building.

He feels like an intruder. Like he’s breaking in, even as he slips the key into the lock.

Ursaring nudges him towards the stairs once they’re in, and he lets her lead him to a room that looks like an office.

The rest of the house had felt too tidy, with nothing out of place, and this room is the exception; there are two boxes sitting neatly on the desk, and, on the chair behind it, a green sweater that had been forgotten over the arm of the chair.

He walks over to that first, snatching it up to hold close.

It smells like freshly turned earth, and he keeps his arms wrapped tightly around it as he turns to the desk.

One of the boxes contains papers that have to do with Team Rocket, with a note on top, simply telling him to do what he wants with them.

The other, smaller, box contains the pokeballs for Giovanni’s team, and Silver stares at them, his chest aching all over again.

Because all of this seems to make it clear that Giovanni had never actually thought that going to Celebi would work.

Clinging tighter to the sweater, Silver turns to the two pieces of paper sitting between the boxes.

One has a phone number, for someone named Nanu, with an assurance that he wasn’t connected to Rocket, and would be able to help him with anything, and a few more details he doesn’t read because he’s distracted by the other, longer, note.

Silver-

I would like nothing more than for you to never read this. To have been able to come back and burn this, and pretend I never had to lay out all this for you.

But if you are reading this, then that means I am dead, and I need you know that I am sorry to be leaving you like this. I tore this region to shreds trying to find you, and I’ll freely admit that I would do it again if I thought it would buy me even just another hour with you, but I suspect at this point nothing will.

I’m leaving you my team. Your ursaring is an excellently trained pokemon, and I only wish I had been the one to help you accomplish that. I know you’ll do well with the rest of them.

And I know this may ring hollow coming from me, but I am proud of where you’ve ended up. When I first heard of a red-haired boy with a  sneasel tearing through Rocket in Johto, I wanted it to be you. Both to know you were alive, and because it would mean you had gotten that strong and capable.

I wish I had been able to help you reach that point, but I’m glad you did nevertheless.

I hope I am at least able to see you to send you here, but if I’m not, know that nothing I’ve done is your fault. And that anyone who tries to tell you otherwise is not your friend.

I love you.

Your father,

Giovanni

[sunny-writes-flowers]

Kinktober 2023

Summary: You are a brand new doctor at Arkham Asylum. But Doctor Jonathan Crane doesn't see it that way...

Rating: E

Statut: One Shot

Relationship(s): Jonathan Crane x gn!reader 

Warning(s):  Kinktober 2023; hate sex; docteur/patient relationship; Dom/Sub; mild violence; old/young relationship; description of smut; description male body; dirty words; sexual tension.

Note: Day 3 of Kinktober, I really enjoyed writing this one. I was thinking about someone in particular, I hope they like it! Also, I wrote this very late at night, and English is not my language, so it's probably full of typos. I hope you will like it.

"Mr. Crane, it's a pleasure to meet you." you say, with false sympathy.  

"It's Doctor Crane, for you...”  

It took you a while to react, looking into the dark whites of his eyes. You narrowed your eyes slightly and turned your head towards a psychology diploma hanging on the wall. "Excuse me, I think there was a slight misunderstanding here. I am the doctor, and you are my patient." you replied, trying to make him understand that he will have no influence over you.  

"On the contrary, child, there is no misunderstanding here. There is, indeed, a doctor and a patient in this room, but you are not the doctor. Do not play games you are too young to play...” What a bastard... Your supervisor had warned you about this challenging case, but nothing could fully prepare you for what he had in store. In situations like this, you knew that the patient had to feel completely comfortable, to have a session that are worth it. And as the same way that Jervis Tetch only responds to Mad Hatter, Scarecrow only responds to Doctor Crane. So be it... 

“I call you Doctor, if you do the same for me.” you negotiated. But the idea didn't seem to enchant him so much, as his slender figure moved in the shadows. He was only held prisoner by handcuffs. The Arkham staff had judged that he was not physically dangerous. No. Jonathan Crane's dangerousness came from his intelligence. He was part of this category of rogues who shone for their mental talent. In Jonathan Crane's case, the lack of empathy made him even more hateful.  

Scarecrow was staring at your diploma, freshly hung in your new little office. “Doctor?” he called you. "Yes?" you replied naively.  

"I would never call you that. You know child, I have been working at Arkham Asylum for twenty years and spent ten years teaching at Gotham Memorial University... I was already working when you were not even a seed in your dear mother’s vagina. Do you really think I'm going to call you «Doctor», a child who is practicing for the first time, and who also occupies my old office?" 

“Very well Doctor Crane, I see how it will be, we will resume our session tomorrow. It's enough for today.” 

“Need a new strategy or need to learn a little more about your patients? In any case, it's a sloppy job you just did. I would have rated you a little D, and it's not an F, because you knew how to show off this little ass of yours. It’s a great way to distract your patients. I give you credit for that.” 

You slammed the door behind you. The guard looks askance at you. You cursed this man. You cursed your colleagues who laughed instead of telling you that your new office once belongs to Doctor Crane. You cursed this place, the only place you could find work at. Cursed be the world. But above all, be curse The Scarecrow! 

The next day, you have already drunk at least 13 coffees during the day. Your last patient had been Margaret Pye aka Magpie, named like this for a good reason. She had tried to steal your «Waterman Fountain Pen» the all entire session. Honestly, you’re pretty sure she stole something. Suddenly a noise echoed in your office, your door opened, and there he was. Your face instantly wrinkled in annoyance. 

"Good evening child. Are you ready for an enlightening session? I hope we do a better score this time..." Crane's voice, a blend of calm and menace, echoed in the room. 

You looked at him as he sat down, a fake smile plastered on your face. Clearing your throat and maintaining a professional demeanor, your talked like nothing had happened yesterday. "Good evening, Dr. Crane. Let's begin. Tell me, how have you been feeling since our last session?" 

Crane chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Feelings? Such a quaint notion. I'm more interested in exploring the depths of your psyche. What fears lurk in the recesses of your mind, I wonder?" 

You raised an eyebrow, resisting the urge to show any sign of discomfort. "We're here to discuss your fears, Dr. Crane, not mine." 

"Oh, but that's where you're wrong child." Crane replied, his eyes narrowing. "To truly understand the mind, one must be willing to confront their own deepest fears. Don't you agree?" 

As he approached again your diploma, undeterred, you pressed on. "Let's focus on you, Dr. Crane. Your obsession with fear and control. How has that affected your relationships with others?" 

Crane's smirk widened, as if he had been waiting for this moment. "Ah, relationships. A fragile dance, wouldn't you say? People are so easily manipulated when their deepest fears are exposed. It's a delicate art, really." 

You maintained your composure, even if having him so close to you was, indeed, something scary. "Your attempts at manipulation won't work on me, Dr. Crane. We're here to delve into your psyche, not play games." 

Scarecrow leaned forward, his eyes locking onto yours. "Ah, but child, isn't therapy a game of sorts? A dance of words and emotions? And I, my dear, am an excellent dancer." 

You felt a chill running down your spine. His hands were firmly attached to your office chair. But you refused to let it show, no, he will not taste your fear. "Our time is limited, Dr. Crane. Let's focus on your experiences at Arkham and why you find solace in instilling fear in others." The more you talked, the more your disgust for him grew. It was contempt mixed with hatred. You hated him from the depths of your gut. So much hatred was even scary. 

"Are you afraid?" He just asked you the million-dollar question. Were you afraid of him? Obviously. But showing it would only make his ego grow, and you couldn't stand this idea. You shifted uncomfortably in your seat, feeling a subtle vulnerability you hadn't experienced before. 

"We're here to discuss you, Dr. Crane. Your fears, your experiences," You pressed on, your eyes trying to avoid his hypnotic gaze. Crane chuckled softly, his eyes never leaving yours.  

"Ah, but my fears are intertwined with the fears of others. The intricate web of the human mind fascinates me." As the confrontation progressed, Crane's psychological manipulation worked its way into your subconscious. The line between doctor and patient blurred, and you found yourself caught between captivation and disgust, by the enigmatic allure of the Scarecrow. 

And what was supposed to happen, happened. In no time, your lips were beating against his. Making war on him violently. Your teeth were banging in this sloppy and rough kiss. Effortlessly, he grabbed you by your legs and threw you onto the desk, knocking over whatever objects Magpie hadn't brought with her. 

As he leaned over you, you slapped him. This disconcerted him. He almost lost his round glasses. But after having put them back in place, despite the handcuffs which bothered him, he placed one of his hands around your neck. The lack of air made your face turn pale, unlike his, which was becoming more and more red with desire. 

"Doctor? You're not a doctor, you're just a big whore. And my diagnosis tells me, the only cure for that, is my cock deep in your fucking hole." 

“Go die in hell, demon!” you spat, undoing his striped pants, exposing his long, reddish circumcised member. 

"I think I prefer «Master of Fear»." he said before penetrating you without any foreplay. It was certainly painful but having him between your legs was without a doubt, one of the best feelings of your life. As he slipped his cuffed hands behind your head, fucking you missionary, your legs hooked onto his hips. 

“For an old doctor, you’re not bad…” you whispered in his ears.    “For an ordinary turkey, you look pretty good stuffed with my stuffing.”    He'll go to solitary confinement for that one. 

[autumnshowell]

who: @autumnshowell where: Hawthorn Park midday.

New Year's Day and she's thirteen days out from having to do it all over again. Hindsight’s twenty-twenty, sure; there is no - or very little - fixing what happened two weeks ago. Every time her mind finds a space of time that isn’t concerned with picking up pieces she’s left beaten to bits on the floor of that basement, she thinks about Amanda Howell, half eaten and rotting ignoble in the dirt.

She’s spent these weeks piecing together broken shards of what she did that night. She remembers things in hazy vague shapes. Trying to act, in her day-to-day, as if nothing has changed. Playing the part of the reasonably distraught, if estranged daughter when the police show up to tell her Amanda's been reported missing. Dutiful driver for AJ, driving where he wants and when he wants. Human being with friends and aspirations and goals. All a bunch of masks that don’ feel like they fit anymore.

Nevermind the question of Aria. Autumn'd made sure enough through word and deed alike that Aria isn’t going to seek her out.

One hand scratches at the side of her head while on the other, a sharp fingernail digs into the wood of a damp picnic table, peeling back a thin ribbon of paint and wood, one of dozens and dozens today alone, hundreds that have been pried loose and blown away by the wind in the past days as she haunts a pavilion at Hawthorn Plaza, eyes traveling between paper pages and the freshly scratched wood and slushy snow that keeps catching orange lamplight as night-time creeps in and lays its embrace on the park. The change has left her different, both in body and mind.

She hears somebody speak, then, looking up and around, and its then she realizes that there’s no scent - no sound of approach - and the voice, it came from all around, and nowhere, all at once.

Turning around and searching for it, she’s taken aback when she looks behind her, only to see a familiar face, sitting there on the other table in the pavilion, as if he isn’t dead.

“Olivier?”

"Yep. That'd be me, poor fucking sod, right?" Even in his ghostly form, he's got a cigarette hanging from his lips and a crooked grin. "I saw you sprouted fur."

His candor marks him as true-to-life, or death, or whatever. She feels she should be terrified at the thought of seeing him sitting there, but terror's set a higher bar these past couple weeks. Maybe this is part of it. Maybe she's insane now. What does it matter alongside everything else?

"Yeah, and it fucking sucked." Autumn follows his direction and turns back to him, looking him up and down, all glitzy and transparent. The way he talks about his death strikes her, and in a way, its comforting to know something like that can still affect her at all. "Yeah I… I saw the photos - they brought me in for questioning and everything. I'm… I'm sorry I didn't check in sooner, or more often. Maybe I could have, I don't know, maybe this wouldn't be so novel."

"You? Pfft. Dumbass. It was that guy I was working with for the short." But he shakes his head. "Nothing you coulda done. So, we got some time. Sing to me, Paolo. I saw shit, but I wanna hear it from you."

"Well, uh. you'll know Tate canned me from the Bowling Alley, said I broke policy. Which… true, kind of. I'm pretty sure I ate him." She flips her hair out of her face. "And like… I almost ate Morgan - I don't know if you ever met her, runs that Arcade that my friend Kevin works at? I almost ate her, too, I think. And like… god. I really, really wish I felt worse about Tate but…" She trails off, because now she's thinking about Aria again, and she has sharp nails digging at the wood again, creaking under strength she still doesn't really get how to manage. "Some of it I feel… really bad about."

"Fuck that guy. That was a case waiting to happen. He deserved to get ate. Glad that the arcade lady didn't get got, though. Dunno if I ever met her.." He flicks the cigarette and the ashes tip off and disappear into nothing in front of both of them. "Wanna get it off your chest?"

She stands from her table, and crosses over to him and sits beside the shade of him, worming her hands out of the sleeves of her borrowed hoodie and jacket, counting on her fingers. "Let's see: Killed and apparently ate my mom, well… not even my mom, just… like that's a whole other thing. Probably caused thousands of dollars's damage to Morgan's Arcade, nearly killed her. And like, most importantly, lost my temper so badly on my girl friend who is probably only still alive because she's already dead." She sighs. “Losing my temper is… probably not the best way to describe it…”

Gesturing with her hand like she's throwing the handful of counted crimes into the wind, she lets out a huff of a sigh. "I literally drive around Port Leiry’s biggest resident Ego and then go mope. And god, he doesn't shut up with the dog jokes, he's insufferable." She scratches at her wrist, sniffs, and maybe its the cold but it's also the sad. "And like, I can't go back to her. I - I almost killed her, Liv. What if she hates me? What if I hurt her again? I can't hypnotize her, just… what, hope she's crazy enough to not run away. I can't make myself do it."

For all his snobbery and shitty attitude, Olivier shuts the fuck up and listens. Because what else is he going to do? Go haunt some asshole who barely knows him? Autumn's the closest thing to - no, the only friend he had. And hell, she needs to get it out and why not play the ghostly mentor? "Sounds like you're torn up." About all of it, really. But he figures, if he was in the same position, then he'd be freaking out, too. And he didn't even get a damn girlfriend before he got killed. "You almost killed your dead girlfrind-- Nice. Uh, have you tried just fuckin' texting her and asking if she wants to talk? Or are ya tuckin' your tail between your legs and hiding?"

Autumn, maybe a bit sheepishly for somebody who has spent at least one night as a giant wolf, pulls her phone out of her hoodie's pouch, looking at its surface, spider-webbed with cracks at this point. She pulls a face at the tail tucking imagery, mean mugging him. "Maybe you're right. It'd get it over with, anyways. I don't want to text though. This whole thing started with texting stupid things at inopportune moments."

"Alright, so - Fucking talk to her. Stop being a little bitch about it." He's slipped back into old ways, but this is how he's always talked to her before he died. "Seriously, A. Get your shit together."

Autumn nods, biting at her bottom lip. "I uh... yeah, if anything, I need to... I need her to know I didn't..." a long sigh breaks the sentence, because its the first time she's voiced it aloud; "... I need to own up to this shit... New year, new me right? No more... running from things that I can fix." She smiles - a small, flickering thing that isn't at all set or safe. "I'm... glad I'm having this vision or dream or... whatever, I'm glad we get to at least say good-" Turning to look up to him, he's gone, and she's alone there in the quiet morning. "Goodbye." === written with: @photoaria