#If he got help earlier maybe he could have led a nice life

[fluffishere]

Me when I analyze my favorite media, and something new clicks, and I love it even more than I already did:

[navybrat817]

Hold You Tight: Part 12

Pairing: Club Owner!Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

Fic Summary: The owner of The 107th wants you to be his girl whether you like it or not.

Part 11 | Series Masterlist | Part 13

Chapter Word Count: Over 4.7k

Chapter Summary: Bucky gets under your skin when he takes you shopping.

Chapter Warnings: DARK AU, dirty talk, mild dubcon (kissing, touching), tension, unease, possessiveness, inner turmoil, gaslighting, manipulation, slight feels, Bucky Barnes (he's a warning, okay?), more warnings to come.

A/N: More Hold You Tight and hope you enjoy! Bucky edit by the beautiful @nixakimbo . ❤️ Beta read by the lovely @whisperlullaby , but any and all mistakes are my own. Divider by the talented @firefly-graphics . Please follow @navybrat817-sideblog new fics and notifications. Comments, reblogs, feedback are loved and appreciated!

You weren’t sure how much time passed with Bucky’s head resting in your lap, your fingers absentmindedly moving through his hair. While his body relaxed, you remained rigid. You tried to think of positive things. Your upcoming trip to the winery, Addison’s wedding. The images in your mind darkened though as if a cloud loomed over them. In a way, it did because you didn’t know what Bucky had planned for those events. Because even if Bucky really let you go to the winery alone, someone would be watching.

You forced the cloud in your mind to lift. Things could still be positive. You could still have a good day and have the best time with your friends.

“I’m sorry, but I have to get back to work,” you whispered.

“Of course,” he whispered back, pressing a kiss to your thigh and lifting his head with a smile. The darkness had left his eyes. How long until it returned? “Thank you for calming me down.”

“Of course,” you echoed because what else could you do?

Brushing his pants off once he got to his feet, he helped you up and didn’t let go of your hand. You didn’t attempt to pull away. He made sure to grab the money you left on the table before he paid the server and you tried to give the poor guy a smile when you thanked him. You just wanted to get on with your day.

As Bucky led you out of the cafe and back to the shop, you caught Ray’s gaze as he stood by the car and waited for his boss. Whatever concern he showed for you faded when he blinked. How did he deal with this life? Would he ever walk away from it?

“I’ll pick you up after work then?” Bucky asked.

“Sure,” you said. You didn’t tell him when your shift ended, but he knew, didn’t he? “Thanks for lunch.”

“It was my pleasure, but one more thing.” Bucky stopped you before you could enter the shop. “This regular customer you mentioned earlier. How often does he stop in?”

He asked as if he had no idea and maybe he didn’t in this case. That assumption didn’t ease your worries. “Once a month,” you said, your stomach turning slightly. “Listen, the roses he tried to give to me, I gave them to him first. They were his usual order and I thought it would be nice gesture and I was just-”

His brows pinched a little as his hands gently framed your cheeks. “Kotyonok, why do you sound so upset?” He asked, his thumbs moving in a soothing motion as you took a deep breath. “Wait, are you scared that I’d be mad at you?”

“I… I don’t know,” you said. You didn’t necessarily think he’d be upset with you, but after his mood swings at lunch and everything else so far you weren't sure what to expect. “I just don't know.”

“No, no, no, I’m not mad at you. Why would I be mad that you were kind to another person? That’s one of the things I love about you. It drew me to you,” he assured you. You oddly felt better by his assurance. “I don’t want you to stop doing kind things for others because you’re worried it might upset me.”

“So, it doesn’t upset you?”

“You being you would never upset me,” he smiled. He had said more than once that he loved you as a person, so maybe he was telling the truth. “A man trying to give flowers to you while going through a break-up is, at the very least, a little strange.”

“Yeah, I guess so,” you said, not wanting to admit that he had a point and that you were slightly put off when Clark tried to give the roses to you.

“I’m also well aware that you don’t hit on any guy who comes into your shop, so I wouldn’t view any act of kindness to a customer as trying to get their attention.”

“That’s true,” you agreed. Even Ray had pointed out to you that you didn’t give guys in the shop the time of day. Why would you when most of them were buying flowers for someone else? “But I just wanted you to know.”

“I appreciate you telling me, but you have nothing to worry about. Just have a good rest of the day.” With a kiss to the corner of your mouth, he whispered, “I’ll be thinking of you until I see you again.”

You weren’t sure why your heart fluttered. Relief that Bucky reacted calmly to what you said? You didn’t dwell on it as he held the door open and smiled after you as you went back into the shop. It was time to concentrate on work again.

Mrs. Crandle smiled and waved to Bucky through the door. “Oh, he is a looker,” she winked. “How was lunch, dear?”

“The food was good and Bucky and I got to talk a bit, which was… nice,” you answered, glancing around the shop and wondering if the place was bugged, too. Could he get access to the shop? Letting you continue to work seemed too good to be true, but he’d have nothing to worry about if he had eyes and ears there, too. “He’s taking me shopping tonight.”

She clapped her hands. “Oh, that’s wonderful! And don’t you dare be modest. Let him spoil you.”

“I have a feeling he’ll spoil me even if I don't ask him to,” you said.

Your whole experience with Bucky was whether you wanted it or not, so why would he stop now?

As expected, Bucky arrived back at the shop a few hours later to pick you up. Instead of giving him the chance to go inside and speak to Mrs. Crandle again, you grabbed your bag and rushed out the door to greet him. He caught you easily when you nearly collided with him, and for the first time, you felt like you were intruding in his space instead of the other way around.

“Eager to see me?” He smiled, his voice teasing as he kept a hand on your shoulder and helped you into the vehicle when you didn’t immediately answer. “How was the rest of your shift? I hope no one else bothered you.”

Just you.

“It was uneventful. I got a lot done,” you replied, feeling a warmth spread through you from the normalcy of your afternoon. “And no one bothered me.” Your gaze flickered to him and he was hanging onto your every word. He also looked much more relaxed, like the moodiness at lunch never happened. “How about you? How was your day?”

“Also uneventful. A couple of boring calls. Kept thinking about you though and it got me through the day,” he said, slipping an arm around you as the car door closed. The way you two were speaking to each other sounded almost normal. Checking in on each other, seeing how the other was doing. “Steve asked about that double date.”

“I’m sure he’s excited for that,” you said, wondering if that poor coat check girl had any idea.

“We both are. You can find a dress for that, too,” he smiled fondly. “In fact, what would you think of me getting you a new wardrobe when you move in? Your style, your choice on everything. You name it.”

You raised an eyebrow, a mixture of surprise and uncertainty washing over you. “Is there something wrong with my current wardrobe?” You hadn’t done anything to deserve a whole new set of clothes and you hoped he wasn’t suggesting it to mold you more to his liking.

“Nothing wrong with it at all. You have great taste and I just want to spoil you,” he said, running a finger down your side. This was the man who let you go into his exclusive club wearing a dressed down outfit simply because it was you, so he’d probably let you get away with any sort of wardrobe you wanted. “Do you know how ravishing you look right now?”

“I’m not ravishing. I’m in my work clothes,” you muttered.

“You are ravishing,” he said, moving his finger back up as you shivered. “We should get some stargazer lilies for your first night in our home. I could strip you down, lay you out on our bed, and brush one of the petals along your skin.”

You inhaled sharply and closed your eyes, trying not to picture him spreading you out on a luxurious bed. He would say something like that when he was right in your space and you had nowhere to go. The man went from zero to sixty in seconds. No doubt he could feel you tremble and knew your heart was racing.

“Bet it’ll feel soft against your nipples,” he whispered, exhaling against your ear. “And your pussy.”

Your next breath was shallow, but you managed not to whimper. “Where are we going shopping?” You asked evenly, hoping to get to the destination sooner rather than later.

You stubbornly kept your eyes shut when he chuckled. “You’re changing the topic because you’re thinking about it, aren’t you? Worried you’ll get your panties soaked before we get to the shop?” He questioned, your heart thudding. You didn’t want to think about it at all. You wanted out of the car so you could properly breathe again. “I’m sorry. I’m not playing nice, am I? We’re going to one of your favorite stores and you can pick out whatever you want.”

You’d no doubt look at the price tags out of habit since you shopped on a budget and bought your nicer pieces on sale. “Do you ever really play nice?” You asked, opening your eyes. “One moment you’re being vulnerable and talking about your family and the next time I see you you’re talking about sleeping with me. I’m shocked the whiplash hasn’t scrambled my brain.”

The image of him destroying the utensil at lunch like it was nothing flashed in your mind for some reason. And him and his gang beating up John. Just how strong was he? Was he a killer?

“Sometimes we’ll talk about something tough or serious and the next it may be something more fun or intimate. That’s part of being in a relationship,” he said. If only it were an authentic relationship. “I want that with you, telling you what’s on my mind and how I feel.”

If he cared about what was on your mind or how you felt, he’d back off and let you have a bit of space. “Relationships are built on mutual respect and trust,” you said. Did he not see that the mutual respect wasn't there since he pushed for things to be his way? And trust was something he couldn't force no matter how powerful he was.

“I understand that. You also said a first date was getting to know each other and seeing if there's a mutual connection. I'm opening up to you, letting you get to know me. I’m getting to know you, too, beyond the things I knew in advance,” he said. What was he learning about you that he didn’t already know? “And you can't tell me you don't feel something for me.”

“Do you want me to tell you what you want to hear, Bucky? That I want you and want to be with you?” You asked. Even if you did develop feelings for him, it would have to be classified as some form of stockholm syndrome. And even then, strong feelings wouldn’t be enough. He wanted everything from you. “That I don’t want anyone else?”

The hand along your side crept up to your neck, tension heightening when he gently squeezed. He loved putting his hand around your throat. “You do want me, you do want to be with me, you’ll never want anyone else once I have you and I know you love how much I want you,” he spoke with confidence, like he could make the words come true as you took your next breath. “Should I check your panties before we go inside and feel how wet they are?”

You needed to distract him. Fight him. Do something. “What’s your love language?” You blurted out. “Physical Touch?”

“What?” He whispered, your heart still pounding when he slowly moved his hand away from your throat.

“Your love language. You constantly touch me when I’m close to you, so I guessed Physical Touch,” you explained. He always had a hand on you.

He sat back with a pensive look. “No one has ever asked me that.”

“Oh,” you said as the car rolled to a stop. You blindly reached for the door handle. “Well, it’s something to think about if you don’t know.”

He held your arm when you tried to get out. “You express yourself through Acts of Service with loving gestures and helping with tasks, but what you crave is Quality Time because you value meaningful interactions and connecting with people on a more personal level.”

You nodded slowly. It was why you loved hanging out with your girlfriends. You cherished making memories with them.

“You also appreciate Words of Affirmation, even if compliments make you feel uncertain because you sometimes feel overlooked. The combination of those languages makes you feel seen and heard,” he continued, giving you a tender smile. “I can hear and see you if you let me.”

You found yourself unable to speak as he gauged your reaction, your throat tight as if gripped by an unseen force. He nailed it right on the head about your love languages, didn't he? “I need air,” you whispered, letting yourself out of the car once he let you go.

The tightness in your throat moved to your heart. Bucky saw and heard you in his own way, didn't he? Not just as a passing thought but because he genuinely believed he loved you, deeply and wholeheartedly. The more he sank his fangs in, the more venom he injected. You had to be your own antidote.

With a shake of your head, you glanced up at the shop. True to his word, it was one you loved. Another piece of yourself that would now be tied to him.

You jumped when Bucky appeared beside you and took your arm. “You okay?” He asked, studying your face with gentle eyes.

“Just fine,” you replied, smiling for his sake. “Let's go shopping.”

You walked into the boutique together, the air filled with a subtle mix of lavender and something sweet that made you feel right at home. The space was a blend of trendy and rustic, exuding charm and intimacy. Clothes lined the wooden shelves and vintage racks, showcasing a variety of styles that ranged from casual to bold. Delicate accessories sparkled in the soft light, inviting you to explore.

You could easily find the perfect dress for the winery here.

“Hello! Welcome to… Oh! Mr. Barnes,” the associate smiled, her heels clicking on the floor. She was a picture perfect example of style and beauty. “I have the back dressing room set up and I’ll be sure no one disturbs you or your girlfriend. It was sundresses you requested, correct?”

Bucky looked proud of himself. “Yes, the perfect sundress for my girl,” he smiled, his blue eyes sparkling as he looked at you. “And whatever dress you choose, you’ll need jewelry. Oh, and a clutch.”

“Girlfriend?” You asked. He must not have wanted a repeat of how the hostess treated the two of you at lunch. “Wait, you already have dresses selected for me to try on?”

“He called and gave us all the details. And we’ll make sure you have everything you need,” the associate promised as Bucky nudged you ahead of him to follow her. Was anyone else in the shop? “Would either of you like a water?”

“No thank you,” you said. You were never offered a water when you shopped there before, but you were never there with Bucky Barnes.

“Just let me know if you need anything at all,” she smiled, opening the dressing room door.

Bucky thanked her as he took a seat in one of the chairs across from the door, watching you expectantly. “If you don't like any of them, we can go somewhere else.”

“I’m sure they're fine,” you said, going into the room and shutting the door before he could say anything else.

Quickly slipping off your shoes, pants, and top, you turned your attention to a small rack with a range of sundresses. Checking each tag as you pushed through them, none of them on sale, it wasn't a surprise that they were all your size. And all something you'd consider wearing. After flipping through the dresses twice, you decided to try on a sleeveless white dress with small rosebuds. It would be nice for a vineyard.

Before you could put the dress on, the door opened. “Need any help?” Bucky asked as you spun around in your bra and underwear, his eyes slowly scanning your body before you had a chance to cover yourself.

“No. I…” you trailed off as he stepped inside and shut the door behind him.

He stared at you for what felt like an eternity before he breathed your name, want written all over his face. The dressing room felt small. Hot. You could hardly breathe as panic threatened to overwhelm you. And you couldn't do anything but step back as he stepped closer, a predator ready to capture his prey.

Your back hit the mirror when he brought a hand to your chin, your knees shaking as he leaned in. “You’re right about one thing,” he said in a husky tone. “I do crave Physical Touch. Yours.”

He pressed his lips to yours, keeping you still and giving you no chance to turn your head away. It was a light, feathering sort of kiss before his tongue flicked out to trace your lips. He teased you until you opened up for him and allowed his tongue to sweep into your mouth. You couldn't think as he groaned and continued his claim. It was only a matter of time until he claimed you completely.

Bucky pulled away a little, his free hand moving down your torso in a possessive path. “Fuck, you taste so sweet,” he rasped. You felt so small, your insides both frozen and melting from his touch. “Just wanna take you home and make you ride my face before I fuck you.”

You gasped when his knee moved between your legs, your hands flying up to hold his arms. He rocked his leg and you felt power in the motion, a promise of what was to come once he had you where he wanted you. “Bucky,” you whispered. The next word out of your mouth was smothered by his lips, but he didn't increase the urgency in his kisses. He took his time. Like the world could be burning around you and he’d let the flames take over as long as he was kissing you.

You bit back a whimper when he rocked his knee harder, the friction sending heat to your core. Another roll of his body and you were certain you felt the outline of his cock. Bringing a hand to his chest, you lightly pushed. It was already going too far. To your surprise, he broke the kiss. His eyes were still hungry though. “You said you want to hear me?” You asked breathlessly, your lip trembling when his thumb brushed it. “Then not here, please,” you whispered, praying he'd stop.

If he was going to have you, it wouldn't be in a dressing room.

“Right. Not for our first time.” He tipped his head back as he took a breath, no doubt trying to control himself. “Just one more kiss, Kotyonok. One more for me to dream about tonight,” he groaned, bringing his face back to yours for one more kiss with fervor. Just when you thought it would turn more ravenous, he shifted to something soft, tender. A feeling that had both of you shaking when it ended, but likely for different reasons.

You stayed upright when he stepped back and gave you space, but your legs still shook as he straightened up his clothes and looked you over once more. If he could devour you with a look... “Thank you.” He actually listened to you and didn't push it any further.

He glanced down as he adjusted his pants and you tried to avoid looking at the tent he began to sport. Horror filled you when your gaze went lower to the wet spot by his knee. He hadn't gotten you off, but you both knew he sparked some arousal within you. “Can’t wait ‘til you really make a mess on my pants,” he smirked, walking out just as quietly as he entered the tiny room.

Fighting back tears once he shut the door, you touched your lips. Bucky finally kissed you. Your mouth still tingled. You still felt him there.

Glancing at the rack of dresses, you wished he really was a sweet boyfriend trying to spoil you just because he could. But he hadn't given you a chance to pick them out yourself. He spoke for you, like you were a doll. It was just another piece he put in place for his twisted puzzle of your relationship.

What was wrong with you?

You pulled your clothes back on and flung the door open so hard it almost hit the wall. Bucky’s smug look immediately changed to concern when you walked out holding a sundress. “This one's fine,” you said in a flat tone.

“Are you sure?” He asked, sitting up more in his chair. “You didn't try it on, did you?”

“It’s the one I want,” you said, calling for the associate before Bucky had a chance to argue. You gave her a stiff smile when she joined you and handed over the garment, feeling Bucky’s eyes on you. “Whatever jewelry and handbag you think will go with this, I’ll take it. I trust your judgment.”

“Oh, this dress is lovely and we have the perfect accessories for this. Would you like to look at shoes as well? Or maybe something to go with any of the other dresses?” She asked, her eyes wide as you brushed past her. “Miss?”

“I’m sorry. I need to step outside,” you said, not wanting to be rude to her.

Bucky called after you, but you ignored him. You were furious with yourself. You let him kiss you and allowed some of his words to get under your skin. He didn't fuck you, but he still won, didn't he? And you were letting him. Just like with everything else.

You took two steps out of the shop before you felt a grip on your arm. “Woah. Slow down,” Bucky said, turning you to face him. “What’s wrong?”

Everything.

“It doesn't matter, but if you really want to see and hear me, please, pay attention,” you said, yanking your arm away. “I want to go home.”

“Why? Is it because that kiss meant something to you and you don't want to admit it?” He asked, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “If you're embarrassed that it made you wet, don't be. I'm flattered. Besides, it got me hard.”

Heat filled your cheeks and you wanted to smack him. There was a fine line between the delusion he had in his head and the reality of the situation. The tightrope you were walking was close to snapping. “I’m not embarrassed. I can't breathe.” You stepped back, trying to give yourself space. Was Ray watching from the car? “Everything in my life recently has revolved around you or you being there. Say what you want about me being lonely, it doesn't give you an excuse to take over.”

Bucky’s smile slipped, like he was really seeing how bothered you were. “I told you I just want to love you. And you enjoy Quality Time.”

“Quality Time when we agree upon it. And love itself should be the thing to take my breath away, not you smothering me,” you gently stated.

“I’m not trying to smother you.” He shifted like he was the one uncomfortable, his gaze flicking to the ground. “I… I know you can't breathe,” he said, lifting a hand as if to reach out before he dropped it and took a deep breath. “That’s why I'm leaving you alone tomorrow,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“You're what?” You asked in disbelief, catching the hint of vulnerability in his eyes as his shoulders dropped. He hadn't left you alone since he broke in. Why in the world would he stop now?

“I was going to bring it up when I dropped you off.” His hand worked its way through his hair. “I’ve been thinking about it and talking and… I’m smothering you. I know I am. Rearranging your schedule, making you meet my friends, and everything else. So…” He reached for you this time and took your hand. “I’m giving you a breather and I’m not going to be around tomorrow. No surprise visits. No calls. Maybe a text, but nothing more.”

You blinked. “So, we won't see each other tomorrow?” You tried not to get too excited. It was only a day, but between that and the girls day that was still something. You had to go the cautiously optimistic route again and take what you got.

But you also couldn't help but wonder why he was really giving you that space. Did Ray or someone say something to him? Was this another ploy to keep you in line?

“You won't see me. God knows I’ll miss you, but it's just a day, right?” He squeezed your hand. “Maybe you’ll miss me, too.”

“I appreciate you giving me that space,” you said sincerely. He needed that space, too, even if he didn't believe it. “And maybe I will.”

“We won't have to miss each other much longer once we're together in the penthouse,” he said, his tone soft and your heart sinking. “Will you answer one thing: Did that kiss mean something to you?”

You didn't want to answer that. If you denied it, it would be a lie or he’d either see through it or snap. If you confirmed it, it would feed him more hope. You still had to examine your feelings because you were afraid and you couldn't think with him staring at you with those longing eyes.

“It meant something,” you answered, not expanding on what exactly it meant when he exhaled. It wasn't smart to let him decipher it how he wished because he could use it against you later.

He took your breath away once more when he pulled you close and brushed his lips against yours. Just as quickly as he started, he stopped and brushed his nose against yours. Any passerby would think it was a sweet moment between a couple making up from an argument. “Thank you,” he whispered, his thumb moving along the racing pulse in your wrist. “Come back inside, please? Pick out a few things for real and then I’ll take you home so you can relax.”

You remembered that the bugs were still in your apartment, which took some more of your enthusiasm away. But if Bucky was really going to leave you alone tomorrow, you’d have to appreciate the time to yourself. Maybe you could pack a bag and get out of the city even sooner than planned.

It wouldn't hurt to try, right? What was the worst that could happen? Making him freak out over your safety? That could be bad.

“Okay. A few things for real and then home,” you agreed.

“That’s my girl.” He turned and paused at the door with a smile. “Can I at least help you try on the dress? Or you can model it for me and I'll tell you how beautiful you are.”

You smiled back a little. “Don't push your luck,” you said, missing the pair of blue eyes that watched you and Bucky go back into the shop.

So, a little bit of action. 😏 Will it be enough to tide Bucky over? Is he really going to leave you alone for a day? Who was watching you? Love and thanks for reading! ❤️

Masterlist ⚓ Bucky Barnes Masterlist ⚓ Ko-Fi

[djarintreble]

Dad Eddie where daughter starts giving people at school the finger because she’s seen her dad do it

anon, so I totally went all out on this one. bringing an unexpected cameo haha than you for this request! I hope this is what you wanted! xx

pairing: dad!Eddie Munson x wife!reader tags: part of my dad!Eddie series, this takes place 1997, Arwen Munson getting in trouble at school, no mention of baby brother but he's alive and probably at daycare (Steve), we're in the principals office oh no, Eddie standing up for his daughter, not so nice teachers, typical Eddie and Arwen behavior, we are fully supportive. word count: 1.7k oops a/n: I have more requests incoming :)

When you swung open the school’s front door, the smells of childhood filled your senses. Did every elementary school smell the same way? Was that a good thing? Whatever the case, the smells of crayons, cleaning supplies and germs was not how you envisioned your morning. 

Your boss was annoyed at your sudden need to leave work at the demand of Arwen’s principal. His tone only meant she had done bad and a parent conference was due. Eddie was on his way from work to meet you as well and together you would both tackle your first (and hopefully last) time sitting in an office due to your daughter's behavior. 

“Hi,” You attempted a smile at the receptionist. “I am here for a meeting with the Principal? I’m Arwen Munson’s mom.” 

“Ah yes, wait right here.” The woman led you to a row of chairs and you waited patiently.

Arwen was a good kid. She would never do anything maliciously. It was inconvenient that they didn’t explain the reason over the phone, making the dramatics of having you come in. Arwen was in 3rd grade, she was raised to use her words and to be respectful. There was no way she got into a fight or bullied someone. There was no way she’d find herself in those situations. And if she did… You prayed it didn’t come to that. 

You couldn’t help but feel that you were in trouble. In middle school, you only had to come to the principal’s office once because of a miscommunication.  Eddie always teases you for your good record and how you’d never do anything bad. In high school, he’d call you adorable for it. 

The other side of you were nervous for how this would look as Arwen is the daughter of Eddie Munson. What if she really didn’t do anything wrong but because of her dad, the veteran teachers who once taught her dad are now treating her like they wish they did him. That was unfair. Especially since Eddie was a kid who acted out as a mask. A defense for how he really viewed himself. If only these schools recognized that earlier instead of showing him he wasn’t worth two cents. 

The front doors barged open and you heard “I’m here! I’m here! Sorry I’m late. Was stuck under a car for 3 hours.”

“And you are?” The secretary asked nonchalantly. Close to the way the secretary at Hawkins High would sound when she heard a younger Munson run in tardy. 

“Oh-” You could hear the surprise in your husband’s voice. “Right, Eddie Munson. Father of Arwen Munson.” 

“Your wife is around the corner, you can wait for Arwen and Principal Jenkins there.” 

Your husband wrapped around the corner and gave you a smirk when he saw you. He threw a red and black flannel over his work shirt and jeans. A few rings helped make him look more put together and not as if he just came from the repair shop. 

“Well well well, I’m getting flashbacks.” He said as he slumped down into the chair next to you. “How are you?” He asked, leaning over to give you a quick kiss as a greeting. 

“I was doing good until I got this call.”

“It’s probably nothing.” Eddie reassured.

“If it was nothing, we wouldn’t get called up here. I’m just scared how this will affect her school life from now on.”

“I highly doubt it will, sweetheart. Besides, we don’t know what she did. Maybe this is a good thing! Maybe she got an award!” As he gave your lap a quick pat, you sighed.

“Maybe. Just the tone they gave makes me scared she's in trouble.”

“Mom?” You heard your daughter ask across the office. She stood there with her lunch bag which showed she was pulled from the cafeteria. Her hair was fashioned into a high ponytail after seeing DJ from Full House wear it that way. Her overalls unclasped from one side revealing an old faded band t-shirt that has shrunken from Eddie’s collection. When you locked eyes, she immediately looked away embarrassed of whatever she did.

“Hey, sweet girl.” You smiled. 

“Mr. and Mrs. Munson?” You heard someone call from behind you. Principal Jenkins was standing outside her door with a slight smile. 

“That’s us.” Eddie responded. 

“Come on in.” She walked into her room, inviting you to come inside. Arwen ran over and gave you and Eddie a quick hug before going inside with you. “Please sit.” 

The three of you sat in the chairs lined up on the other side of her desk. Arwen sitting between you and Eddie. You rubbed Arwen's back consolingly before facing the principal. 

“Thank you for coming on such short notice.” She started. Another set of smiles were sent her way despite you both being annoyed you had to leave work. “I wanted to start off by saying I am very proud of Arwen’s academics. She has complete excellence in all her studies and her special area classes. I wanted to ask if she would be considered for our gifted program.” 

Relief ran over you as the good news was delivered. You looked over at Eddie who showed nothing but a proud face. He gently shook your daughter’s shoulders. 

“That’s my girl! Yes, that would be amazing.” You noticed Arwen’s lack of enthusiasm and patted her leg.

“Is that something you’d want to do?” You asked. 

“There is one thing though.” The principal started. 

Oh no.

“It seems this morning Arwen decided to effect that perfect citizenship grade by an act of throwing a middle finger at her substitute teacher as well as some of her students.” 

“What?” you asked, baffled.

“I bring this up as a concern because that would affect the final process of the gifted program application. Her homeroom teacher must approve that she is capable of maintaining good citizenship when brought into the gifted classes.” The principal didn’t seem too happy. 

“Arwen, baby, why did you do that?” Disappointment settled in as your daughter sat quietly, kicking her feet slightly under her chair. 

“Sweetheart, you know that’s not appropriate to do.” Eddie added, yet his face seemed more worried. 

“I didn’t mean to. I just got really mad.” She admitted. 

“What happened?” You asked. 

“Mrs. O’Donnell saw my last name and asked if you were my dad.” She looked toward Eddie. The name rang the bell as your old English teacher from Hawkins High. Guess her retirement meant coming to torment 8 year olds. “I said yes and she said she hopes I don’t turn out like you. That she didn’t like the Munson kids. So I just did it.” Eddie sighed, knowing she didn’t know of the things he went through in school. Including the time he gave Hawkins high Principal and Mrs. O'Donnell the bird as he got his diploma...

Sure she knew he was a bit of a troublemaker but you didn’t tell her specifics. That was unfair of O’Donnell to say that to her but not okay to respond that way, especially with her presumption of Eddie’s children. 

“Yes, we are taking care of Mrs. O’Donnell’s behavior but it was not okay to do that on Arwen’s part especially toward her fellow students.” 

“They were laughing at me instead of standing up for me!” She exclaimed. 

“I can’t take away the mark on her citizenship for that as it is still behavior we do not allow.” The principal added.

“How does that affect her ability to do the gifted program?” You asked. 

“Her homeroom teacher has to approve that she is able to show good conduct in difficult situations.” 

“I promise, this was a one time thing.” Eddie reassured.

“I do hope so, Mr. Munson. I’m only concerned about how she has learned that behavior.” Her tone showed a hint of judgment. 

Your eyes widened, knowing this was a trigger for Eddie. 

“My daughter is nothing like me. She is more than I could ever be. I will not tolerate teachers having assumptions of her due to the mistakes I made when I was in school. This gifted program is an amazing opportunity for her and I don’t want that to be affected by anything other than her own accomplishments. We will make sure she does nothing like that again. But she deserves this.” 

You’ve never heard Eddie like that before. Prompted by his own past and his defense for your daughter, he truly has shown his growth. You didn’t think you could love him anymore but here you were, smiling wide at him as he stood up for your daughter. 

“Thanks, dad.” Arwen smiled. 

“We will put it into consideration, thank you for coming in.” Principal Jenkins was lost for words. The three of you stood up and left the office. 

“How do you feel about getting checked out and getting some dessert?” Eddie asked Arwen, giving her shoulders a tight squeeze as he led her to the front of the school. 

“Eddie…” You whispered.

“It’s okay I need to talk to her about a few things.” You simply nodded, trusting his judgment. “Go grab you stuff from your class, I’ll be checking you out.” 

“Okay!” Arwen smiled and ventured toward her class.

You and Eddie walked back toward the front where the secretary you greeted earlier sat.

“Hi, we’re going to check out Arwen Munson for the day.” 

“Alright, her class is at a special area class so she will be brought up with her teacher. Wait right here.”

Eddie put his arm around you and you wrapped yours around his waist in response.

“Are you okay?” You asked. 

“I’m doing great.” He responded. 

“Mr. Munson.” You heard. Turning around, you saw Arwen being brought to the front by Mrs. O’Donnell. This is why he checked her out…

“Ah Mrs. O’Donnell. Missed me so much you came out of retirement to see my daughter.” 

“Eddie!” You lightly smacked his back. 

“Yes, she is wonderful.” Mrs. O’Donnell deadpanned.

“Oh and thank you for those kind words you said today about me. Always a pleasure knowing you think so highly of me. Have a good one.” He said as Arwen walked toward the two of you. He wrapped her around and led the both of you out of the school.

“But she didn’t, dad.” She looked up at your husband.

“I know,” he said as he shut the door. “and so does she.” He said before quickly flipping off the school and running to his car laughing with Arwen.

So that’s where she learned it from… 

Looks like you had to be the one to get onto the both of them but you couldn’t help but be proud of the way they defended each other. 

--------

thanks for reading!!

more dad!Eddie can be found here -> Dad!Eddie Series Masterlist

series taglist: @geekmom3 @ruinedbythehobbit @dark-academia-slut

honorable tags I think would enjoy this story based on previous interaction (I love your comments on the last stories so hi ily): @aesthetic-lyssa @yodelingtea @wintermunsonreads @lovelyladymayyy @

eddie munson taglist thread: @catpjimin @senthiasworld @foxsmvlder @a-lil-pr1ncess @cryuki-patootie

[petitelepus]

A Loner's Unexpected Journey, Part 1

Kimetsu Academy!Genya Shinazugawa X Fem!Reader

Summary: You are the classroom loner and you like it that way. Then you found this kitten and one thing led to another and before you knew it, you weren't alone anymore.

Warnings: None

A/N: Modern!AU, Kimetsu Academy, Female Reader, Genya Shinazugawa, Gyomei Himejima

PART 1 II PART 2 II PART 3 II PART 4 II PART 5 II PART 6 II PART 7 II PART 8 II PART 9 II PART 10 II PART 11 II PART 12 II PART 13 II PART 14 II PART 15 II PART 16 II PART 17 II PART 18

So, the school had ended and the students were waiting for their club activities to start. You were minding your own business, reading the latest issue of your precious manga when you suddenly heard the loudest and most annoying squeal come from across the classroom.

"So, teach Rengoku is so handsome!"

"And he is, like, so nice!"

You sighed as you heard some girls in your classroom laugh and giggle with each other. You secretly glanced at them on the other side of the room and sure enough, they had flocked together like some hens around this one girl's desk by the window.

You didn't get them. Why chase after something you wouldn't get no matter what? Sir Rengoku was a teacher and a good man, he wouldn't get involved with some young and foolish girls who were head over heels for him. The same went for teachers Tomioka and Uzui, who were also on most girls' dream man lists.

You frowned as you turned your focus back on the manga, but you were now in a foul mood thanks to those annoying classmates of yours.

What, just because you sat by the windows you were suddenly a heroine of this life? Get real.

"Hey, you!" Someone suddenly called you and you silently turned to look at the same girls responsible for your poor mood. They were all smiling and you couldn't help but notice how they were breaking the dress code with their make-up and such.

"Hey hey, can you help us with cleaning?" One of the girls asked and the other one smiled, "You're so good at it, I bet we'll be done in ten minutes with your help!"

Was that supposed to be a compliment? Did they really expect that you would fall for that cheap manipulation? You knew that the second you agreed to help them they would flee and leave all the cleaning to you. It wasn't even your turn to clean the classroom, and when it was your turn you had no help whatsoever.

"Sorry, I have things to do." You replied quietly as you got up, grabbed your shoulder bag, and left the classroom. You seriously hated those girls and the guts they had. Whatever, you weren't fully lying when you told them you had things to do.

The latest issue of your manga had just yesterday arrived at the bookstores and you were eager to purchase it, alongside some treats from the grocery store on your way home. Then, in the silence of your own home, you would enjoy the manga with chips, candy, and maybe some Cola.

You were by the shoe lockers and about to take out your indoor shoes and switch them to your regular ones, but then you remembered the precious manga that you had accidentally left back in the classroom. You had left in such a hurry that you had probably left it on your desk.

Turning around, you approached the classroom and you were about to slide the door open when you heard the earlier pretty girls talking.

"-so what's her problem?"

Who were they talking about now?

"She is so gloomy."

Ah, they were talking about you.

"And so unfriendly!"

"Like, she totally is!"

"No wonder she has no friends."

Hello, you could still hear them. If they had something to say to you then they should say it to your face. Don't hide amongst your girlfriends or behind closed doors.

Well, either way.

You slammed the door open and the girls flinched as they whipped their heads to look at you. You paid them no mind, not even glancing at them as you walked to your desk and picked up the manga you had forgotten. As fast as you had arrived, you left, making sure to close the door behind you, but you didn't leave immediately.

"Do you think she heard us?" You heard one of them whisper.

"She didn't say anything so maybe not?" One of them replied.

"Even if she did, what would it matter?" Another girl said. "It's not like she has friends or anything!"

"True true!" They all laughed and you frowned as you grounded your teeth together and left.

So what if you had no friends? What would it matter?" Would you die if you didn't have any? Would the government collapse? Would the world as you knew end?

No, so why would you bother getting someone that you would end up having to serve and suck up to? You never had friends and you wouldn't need them in the future either.

With this in your mind, you went to change your shoes and left the school grounds. Fall was already upon you all and the air was slowly but surely getting colder, just like days turned shorter and darker.

One would think that the start of the new school year would be a new start for a loner like you, but you preferred your own company over others.

You even had special permission from certain teachers that you wouldn't have to take part in group assignments since you performed poorly with other people and honestly, not that many wanted to work with you when you would only give them cold shoulder and nothing else.

You even hadn't picked up any club activities and you knew you would probably have to pick something soon. Maybe offer to serve in the school library again? That place was quiet and no one really bothered you unless they really had to.

Ugh, whatever, it was another day's problem. You had plans now either way. You would buy the newest volume of your manga that had just come to the bookstore, go home, and enjoy the heck out of it.

Yes, just by thinking about it you were already getting in a better mood. Nothing could bring you down now anymore!

It didn't take long for you to make your way to your local bookstore where you did all your book and comic shopping and you were right, the latest issue was right there and there were still plenty of copies left. You happily purchased the manga and slipped it alongside the receipt into your shoulder bag.

You were just on your way to the high-rise where you lived when suddenly-!

"Mew!"

Your whole body froze the second you heard the tiniest little cry. You looked around yourself but couldn't see the source of the cry. Maybe you imagined it. You turned to continue your journey when you heard the mew again.

Okay, you were now damn sure that you were not imagining that. Deciding to investigate, you made your way to the alley where you heard the soft meowing coming from…

"Mew!"

There it was again! You looked behind a dumpster and saw the tiny grey kitten meowing there. You blinked as your mind was filled with happy thoughts when you saw something so cute you could barely stand.

You knew by what you had read from some manga that you shouldn't take a kitten because mama cat might be somewhere close by… But you couldn't see any signs of other cats anywhere nearby.

"Hi, there little baby…" You hummed quietly as you kneeled and offered your hand for the kitten to sniff. The little thing mewed softly as it sniffed your finger and then gently bit it. It stung, but it was nowhere near hurting you.

"You sound hungry. Are you hungry?" You asked and the little one meowed sadly.

Okay, you could feel regret crawling up your arms if you left this kitten there and if something bad happened to it. Sighing, you picked up the little thing and carefully held it in your arms, but before you left the alley, you checked the little one's gender.

"I think I'm calling you Lady because you are a fair little girl." You thought out loud and the little one looked at you with those big shiny sky blue eyes before meowing.

A couple of days passed and you hummed a little song under your breath on your way back to your apartment, the grocery bag hanging in your hand, filled with cat food meant for small kittens, some formula just in case the little one needed more weight, some wet food, and toys.

As you were passing the alley where you had found the poor kitten, you overheard someone talking.

"Did you see her?"

"No, she wasn't hiding in the dumpster either."

"I hope she hasn't met her fate against a passing car…"

One of them sounded familiar. Maybe even a little too familiar. You peeked past the wall and saw the tall and muscular man, teacher Himejima, and a student… He had a similar uniform that other boys in your school wore. You didn't know his name, you never really had a reason to since you usually avoided every living human being.

You wanted to avoid them, but you couldn't help from overhear that they were searching for someone. A girl, but someone small enough to hide in dumpsters if needed to?

Your mind went immediately to the small kitten you had found and before you could plan your approach, your legs were already carrying you to the two men.

"Teacher Himejima?" You called out and the blind teacher of yours turned to look at you, but so did the young male student. You glanced at him, but he seemed frozen in place for some reason.

"Young miss?" The hulking huge teacher of yours called your name and you nodded, but you realized he couldn't see you.

"Yes, it's me," You said as you nodded again and looked at your fellow student, "Sorry, I couldn't help but hear you talking. Are you looking for something?"

The young man nodded shakily, but it was your teacher who replied, "Yes, a small grey kitten. Genya here found her earlier this week, but couldn't catch her…"

"Aah," You nodded as you raised the bag in your hand, the rustling alerting your teacher, "Sorry, I found her and took her home with me."

"I understand," Gyomei nodded and much to your shock he started to cry, "I'm so happy to hear that the kitten is safe…!"

"Sir, please don't cry!" You were starting to panic. You had heard that this teacher of yours could be a little emotional but you hadn't witnessed it before in person!

"If you want, you can come and check on the kitten yourself if you want?" You offered generously and instantly regretted it. Your apartment was your safe haven and your space only. You didn't like sharing it, other than with the little kitten.

"Ah, I cannot join you for it would be inappropriate for a teacher to visit their student's home…" Gyomei nodded as he turned to address the young man next to him, "All you alright with checking on the kitten by yourself Genya?"

Ah, yes, Genya was his name. You made sure to try and remember that name.

"Yes, sir…" The young man nodded and all three of you left the alley. Once you bid Sir Gyomei farewell, you glanced at your fellow student, "So… You're Genya?"

"Y- yes…" He nodded quietly as he averted his gaze, avoiding any eye contact with you. You blinked in confusion, but you then thought that maybe he was just painfully shy. You could live with that. You introduced yourself to him and he nodded quietly. Without further delays, you started to lead Genya towards your high-rise.

You were entering the entrance code when you noticed that Genya wasn't following you. You looked over your shoulder and saw him admiring the huge building where you lived.

"You coming?" You asked and he snapped out of his thoughts or whatever place where his mind wandered. Quietly, he followed you inside and the two of you took the elevator to your floor.

Once inside, you were telling him to take off his shoes when you heard a small meow. Both you and the young man turned to look and you saw the small ball of grey fur make her way to you.

"Hi there Lady," You greeted the little kitten as you raised the plastic bag in your hands, "I got treats for you."

Hearing the bag rustle excited the little creature and you smiled at the sound of her meowing.

"You, uh…" Genya started slowly, "You named her Lady?"

"Yes, since she is a fair lady." You nodded as you went to put away all the cat food you bought, but before you did that, you glanced at your guest over your shoulder, "Do you like coffee or tea?"

"Y- you don't need to make me anything…"

"This is my home, you're my guest, so my house, my rules." You said with a serious look, "So which one you want?"

"I…" He looked down at his socks, "Tea would be nice, thank you…"

"No worries," You nodded as you entered your small kitchen and put the electric kettle on. You noticed that Genya looked like a lost duckling there at the entrance of your apartment so you called him over, "Come as sit on the couch."

"Yes…!" He walked to your living area and took a seat on the couch by your coffee table. He was so fucking nervous, you almost thought he might pass out soon. Maybe some small snack would help?

You opened your fridge and noticed that you still had some Cola left.

"Oh hey, sorry, if you want, I got some Cola also." You wondered out loud. How could you forget your Cola? You glanced at Genya, "Would you like some Cola instead of coffee or tea?"

"Yes, please…"

You nodded as you turned the kettle off, grabbed the bottle and two glasses from your cabinet, and filled them with the dark sugary liquid. You gave Genya his glass, which he thanked you for and you took a seat across from him.

"So…" You nodded and the young man nodded back quietly.

"Uh…" You looked outside the window, "It's getting windy out there, right? Fall is upon us."

"Yes… It is…" Genya nodded and you felt like a fish out of water.

Oh God, you had been so quiet and cynical for so long that you didn't know how to properly speak anymore. Also, you never had guests come to your little home before so Genya was the first one. Maybe you should ask about something he would feel more comfortable talking about.

"So, uh…" You started awkwardly, "Are you in any school clubs?"

"I'm…" He swallowed nervously, "I'm a member of the school's sharp-shooting club…"

"Ooh," You nodded, quite impressed actually, "That's… Pretty cool."

"T- thank you?" Genya looked surprised, hearing you compliment his club choice. Surprised and maybe a little happy?

"You, uh…" The man looked around and saw your full bookshelf, "You read a lot?"

"Huh?" You blinked in confusion before you realized that he meant your huge manga collection. "Ah, yeah, mainly just some manga. Nothing fancy or such."

"You… Have an impressive collection." He said and you were truly confused by this feeling in your chest. Suddenly there was a little meow and Lady decided to join you and Genya. You expected her to come to you, but she immediately went to rub her head against Genya's foot.

The young man smiled a little as he gently petted the kitten and you were both kinda happy and jealous. You sipped your drink and Genya copied you before petting Lady again.

"She seems to like you." You thought out loud and he nodded, "She was so thin when I found her… I couldn't take her because of my brother… I'm happy that she is safe."

"Me too." You nodded as you watched the two of them interact. You found yourself curious, "Is your brother allergic to animals?"

"No, why?" He asked and you shrugged, "You said you couldn't take her because of him. Why, is it because he is allergic?"

"Ah, no, nothing like that…" Genya frowned a little, but tried to hide it, "He thinks school is more important and animals are just a distraction from homework and exams."

"Oof, that sucks." You thought out loud and immediately felt bad, "Sorry, I meant no harm. I don't know your brother or his reasoning."

"It's okay… He is actually a teacher in our school."

"Oh?" You raised your brows in slight confusion, "Who?"

"Sanemi Shinazugawa."

"Hm…" You frowned, "Doesn't sound familiar…"

"White hair and many scars." He told you and your eyes widened as you finally realized who his brother was!

"Oh, the math teacher!" You exclaimed as you nodded, "Yeah, he is pretty strict about school and math."

"That he is…" The young man nodded and you almost felt bad that his brother was so obsessed with good grades and such.

"I, uh…" Genya suddenly swallowed nervously, "I guess I should go… Now that I know that Lady is okay…"

"Ah, okay…" You nodded as you got up and went to take the empty glasses to the kitchen sink while Genya made his way to the entrance. He already had his shoes on when you went to say goodbye to him.

"So, uh…" You looked around, not knowing where to look, "I guess we see each other at school?"

"Yeah… I guess…" Genya nodded as his face turned red again.

"Okay… See ya?" You nodded and he nodded back before turning and leaving your apartment. You closed the door behind him and for some reason, you felt your legs almost give up.

You quickly went to sit on your couch and sighed. What the heck was wrong with you? Why did you feel so… Happy after talking to a human? You hated other humans, why was Genya so different?

Suddenly, Lady meowed and you realized that she must have been hungry.

"Ah, sorry Lady. What would you like, chicken or tuna?"

She meowed again and you nodded as you smiled a little, "Chicken it is."

[awlimagines]

A Wonderful Twelve Days of Christmas

The surprise was a team-up/collab with @kinokoshoujoart to provide you guys with Twelve Days of your favorite A Wonderful Life bachelor/ettes! All of the lovely art credits go to @kinokoshoujoart, who also provided immense help with the themes/prompts and proofreading each one. Thank you so much!! I've loved our collab and am excited to share it with everyone!

Day One - Nami

“Hey, do you have some time?” she asked the busily working farmer. 

Nami had spent most of the previous night tossing and turning before deciding she needed to do this. She didn’t want to do it alone, and you offered her support at every turn. Nami fought a sigh of relief as your head eagerly bobbed in confirmation. She was grateful for you filling the silence and distracting her nerves as Nami led you toward the city. 

The Starry Night Market had grown since she came with her dad years ago. The booths spread from the mountain’s base like a patchwork quilt of brightly colored vendors. It could be its own little town. Nami was already regretting coming. The small, quiet Forget-Me-Not Valley was more her speed than the crowd. She thought that maybe such things weren’t always terrible, peeking over to see your excitement. 

“I just wanted to get something nice for Tei, Lou, and Rock for welcoming me at the inn this year,” Nami mumbled as an excuse. If you thought anything of her thinly veiled lie to hide her feelings, Nami couldn’t see it. Instead, she focused on keeping her face passive as you grabbed her hand. 

“So, we don’t get separated!” you beamed, following Nami’s lead. “They’ll be happy with anything you give them.” 

She was doing her best to focus on finding gifts. Nami wanted to ensure she got the best possible thing for each member of her found family. Even if she would never openly call them that. A heartfelt gift would surely convey her words without needing to say them herself. Shopping would be easier if it weren’t for the press of people and the tempting cart that kept making rounds. The sweet potato vendor drew her gaze each time he appeared. Nami jerked her head away again to see you cradling a dog figurine. 

“Are you getting that?” 

“Nah, I don’t need it,” you blushed, setting the figure back down amongst its friends. 

As she completed her final purchase, Nami realized you weren’t hovering at her shoulder. She quickly took advantage of the lapse to purchase the dog figurine and hide it with her other purchases. Her heart skipped a beat as she completed the sale and looked for you. Where could you have gone? Soft fabric encircled her neck as you reappeared, draping the scarf Nami eyed earlier around her neck. Nami bit into her cheek, trying to ignore the swell of joy. She would never have thought you would buy her a gift she couldn’t be bothered to get herself. Nami prepared to lecture you about walking off to hide her feelings. 

“Sorry, I couldn’t wait until Starry Night. I’ve got you this too! You’ve been eyeing them all day. I want to see what the craze is all about,” you rapidly said, thrusting a foil-wrapped treat towards her. 

Nami’s cool facade thawed to reveal her brilliant smile as she unwrapped the aluminum to reveal a piping hot sweet potato. This had been a really great day. Nami hoped she could spend more time with you like this in the future. She worried too much happiness like this would make it impossible to leave the valley, but maybe that wouldn’t be so bad. Nami could make a home there with you. She couldn’t wait for Starry Night to give you the gift she purchased for you.

[foreveranevilregal]

Encantober Day 11: Liminal

It was finally here. The day Mirabel had been waiting for. Ever since she could remember, she’d heard wonderful stories about how when she turned five, she would get a magical gift, like everyone else in her family. Well except for her papá and tío Félix, but they hadn’t lived in casita when they turned five. But Mirabel had been living here her whole life, and today was the day! Soon, she would know exactly what amazing gift she would receive.

Her abuela always said she’d get a really special gift because she was a really special person. Mirabel wondered what gift she’d end up getting. She didn’t really like Isabela’s gift. Sure, the flowers were pretty, but she liked to trip Mirabel with vines and Mirabel always ended up crying after. Luisa’s gift was pretty cool, and Dolores’ too. It’d be fun to hear everything. Camilo’s gift might have been the coolest, but he liked to hide and pretend he was mean señora Ramírez from down the street who yelled whenever Mirabel got close to her yard. That made Mirabel cry too. She didn’t want a gift like that, which could be used to hurt people. She wanted something nice, like her mamá’s gift. Healing could only be used to help people. Mirabel wanted to help people.

She was so nervous and excited she could hardly eat breakfast. The table nudged her plate closer to her, reminding her of the arepas waiting to be eaten. Somehow, she managed to swallow a few bites, but she was just too excited to finish eating! Before her parents could say anything, she leaped up from her chair and ran outside. Her excitement made her want to run through the whole town and tell anyone who’d listen about the special ceremony she’d be part of tonight. That was when she’d find out what her awesome gift would be. She could hardly wait.

Eventually, she got tired of running around and went back home. And then her mamá insisted she take a nap! Mirabel really didn’t want to do that. What if she slept too much and missed the ceremony? She couldn’t risk not getting a gift!

After her mamá promised her that she would wake Mirabel up before the ceremony, and pointed out it would come sooner if Mirabel slept, Mirabel finally gave into her tiredness. When she woke up, the late afternoon sun shone brightly through her window. Mirabel threw back her covers and jumped out of bed. Time to get ready!

Her mamá helped her dress in the special ceremony dress and fixed her hair.

“Mamá, what gift am I going to get?”

“I don’t know, querida. No one knows what gift they’ll end up getting before they get it.” Mamá put the finishing touches on her bow.

“I hope it’s something really cool!” Mirabel exclaimed.

“I’m sure it’ll be something as wonderful as you are.” Abuela spoke from the door. “Come. It’s time for the ceremony.”

They led Mirabel downstairs. Everyone was already waiting. There were so many people there. Her family had invited the whole town to celebrate Mirabel getting a gift.

Nervous, Mirabel stood at the door, waiting. She saw her abuela smile and nod for her to come forward. Mirabel started walking towards the staircase, glancing apprehensively from one side to the other. So many people were there, in their casita. Maybe even more than for Camilo’s ceremony a few months earlier. She took a deep breath and walked through the crowd, wiping her sweaty palms on the skirt of her dress. Mamá probably wouldn’t be happy about it, but it was better than the candle slipping out of her hands. That would be way worse.

She paused at the bottom of the staircase, looking up to see her mamá and papá standing at the top. Next to them was her abuela, holding the magical candle, and behind her… Behind her was the door to Mirabel’s brand-new room! Isa wouldn't let Mirabel into her room, but Luisa's room was nice. And she vaguely remembered Camilo’s room being really interesting when they went in after his ceremony. She hoped hers was even more interesting.

Mirabel walked up the stairs, careful not to trip. Her shoes were a little uncomfortable, but her abuela had insisted that she dress her very best for this important night. It would be the most important night of her whole life, she said. Of course Mirabel wanted to look her best for the most important night of her life.

It seemed like the staircase was getting longer, not shorter, the higher up she went. With every footstep, she could hear her heart thumping in turn. Finally, she reached the top.

She looked to her mamá and papá for reassurance. Mamá beamed at her, clasping her hands over her heart. Papá tilted his head towards where abuela stood with the candle, urging her forward.

Taking a deep breath, Mirabel stepped towards abuela and took the candle in her hands. She watched the flame flicker as abuela gave a speech about the Madrigal family gifts and the blessings the candle had given to them and was about to give to Mirabel.

“Are you ready, Mirabel?” She asked quietly.

Mirabel nodded so hard she got dizzy. She had never been more ready for anything in her life!

Abuela took the candle out of her hands and stepped aside to reveal Mirabel’s door. It had a doorknob with the letter M on it, the same as Mirabel’s name.

The candle had dripped some wax while she was holding it, so Mirabel wiped her palms on her dress again. She didn’t want to make the shiny doorknob dirty with her wax covered hands.

Mirabel stood in front of the door, awed. This was it. This was the moment that would tell her what her gift was. Gold light swirled over the door, mirroring her excitement.

She had been waiting for this moment as long as she could remember. All she had to do now was open the door.

Taking a deep breath, she reached out her hand.

[shadowqueen402]

Hey There!! Could you do a Fic where Dolly's dad finds out what happened to his daughter?

Sure!

Sean Carmichael managed to get his life back on track following the divorce of his ex-wife. He decided to take a break from dating for a bit. He now got a new job as a doctor and got his own place, a really nice condo that suited his tastes.

He wondered how his daughter was doing. It had been a while since he'd last seen her. After the divorce, Primrose pretty much cut off all contact with him. Suddenly, knocks were heard on his door. Curious, Sean walked over and opened it.

There stood Dolly. She was in a strange uniform he had never seen. A look of anger and resentment was on her face. Tears fell from her eyes. "Dad…" She said. "I-I want to live with you. Can I stay here? Living with Mom is a nightmare…" She hugged her father and let her tears fall.

"Of course, sweetie," Sean said to her. "Come on inside and I'll make you something to drink. You can tell me everything, okay?" He led Dolly inside and sat on the couch.

"Mom… She took her love for perfection too far," Dolly admitted. "That school that she wanted me enrolled to? It wasn't a real school. It was practically a prison to me."

"What did your mother do, Dolly?" Sean asked. He handed her a mug of black tea. "She's not here so you can tell me."

"Mom created this…machine." Dolly sipped her black tea. "It was a prototype, but I was the first one to be tested with. She brainwashed me into becoming perfect. I found myself doing things I normally wouldn't do. But time went by and more girls came to her school. She brainwashed them too. They became the one person they knew they weren't. Anyone that dared disobey Mom's orders was punished."

Sean stood, slack-jawed and angered. "She did all of that to you!?" He asked. "If I had know she was going to do this to you, I would have fought for full custody over you! Then, this all would have been prevented…"

"If only I chose to live with you earlier…" Dolly sat her mug of tea down. "Maybe then, I would have been safe from Mom's cruel actions."

"You're staying with me from now on, Dolly," Sean said in a serious tone. "Your mother has crossed too many lines and has proven to be a danger to all. Later on, we'll stop by that mansion so you can pick up your stuff. Then, I'll help you get settled here. But since you brought her up, I do wonder if you can help me with something?"

"Oh?" Dolly glanced up at her dad.

"We're going to find out what's caused your mom to act this way," Sean replied. "As well as do a background check on her. We have to stop this now."

[firestarwrites]

Slow Dance

Word Count: 1.2k

Warnings: None

Song: "Right Here Waiting" by Richard Marx

Extra Notes: None, but I wish this was reality

It was the evening before prom and your heart was racing like crazy. You had never been so nervous but so excited before in your life. Everything you prepared - from your dress to your hairstyle - was for him.

After a huge fight broke out between your friend group, you realized that having a crush on a close friend was not the way to go. Your feelings faded for your close friend but flared up soon after for a guy in your favorite class. Every day, you dreamed of talking to him or hanging out with him. Everything from his hair to the way he held himself was perfect.

You knew he didn't like you back - I mean, it's common knowledge. Everyone at school knew who he liked and they were not afraid to tell you that. You brushed off those people and continued pining over him. Admittedly, you did start talking to him more in the past couple of weeks after getting his phone number. Now, the moment came - prom. You wanted to ask him but thoughts of him rejecting you filled your mind. You decided to ask him to slow dance if you saw him there.

The day of prom was going at a faster pace than you expected. You asked someone to do your hair in a pretty style, which to you looked very nice. Your dress was in perfect condition without any wrinkles. Your friend offered to take pictures of you in your dress and you agreed. While posing on a bench, you couldn't help but dream about him beside you putting an arm around you. You thought about him the rest of day leading up to that night and how you were going to ask him to slow dance. Would you pull him aside during the song? Would you ask him before you even walked in the building? Oh well, you'd find out when you got there.

When you arrived at the school, your eyes immediately sweeped the place for him. You spotted a bunch of other people through the flashing strobe lights and fog machines, but not him. You sighed and thought maybe he would arrive late. Your friends called you over to dance and you did. When the lights dimmed for the first slow song, you sat down at a table and softly sang along. You didn't have a date after all. You scanned the room again for your crush but came up short.

Halfway through prom, they announced the king and queen. The lights were all on at this time and everyone surrounded the catwalk. Your crush was nowhere to be seen. At this point, you assumed he didn't come to prom. Afterwards, you went home feeling dejected. The dark road was calming to you as opposed to the flashing lights at the school. You turned the radio off and drove in silence to your house. After that, you decided to text him. It wouldn't hurt to, would it?

"Hey, I didn't see you at prom tonight. Is everything okay?" you sent.

"Yeah, I decided not to go. I would just be third wheeling anyways." he sent back, not even a couple minutes later. He usually responds hours later.

Suddenly, a thought struck your mind. What if you were able to slow dance with him after all?

"I know it's late, but do you want to hang out? Prom was boring and I didn't have much fun..." you sent, waiting for a reply.

"You know what? Why not. Send me the location and I'll meet you there," he replied. Your heart skipped a beat and you smiled. You sent him your address and waited for him to arrive.

About twenty minutes later, he came dressed up in a suit. You didn't expect him to dress up but you could feel yourself slowly getting weak. He looked so handsome and you couldn't believe he was here, at your house.

"Let's go over here!" You smiled and led him to your backyard, where a small gazebo sat. It was made out of wood and had fairy lights wrapped along the pillars. There was a bench inside - the same one that you posed on earlier. Your crush smiled at the gazebo.

"I know you're probably tired right now, but I invited you here for a reason," you started.

"It's okay, just tell me," he stood beside you, looking at you and smiling.

"I wanted to slow dance with you," you sure were blunt about it.

"Oh! That was... unexpected," he said. Your heart dropped. You felt like it shattered on the floor when he said that.

"You don't have to. I just wanted to offer," you said, trying not to let the hurt in your voice show.

"No no, it's not like that. It's just... I've never been asked to dance before. That's all," he said, trying to comfort you. "I would love to."

Your heart slowly repaired itself after he spoke those last words. He did want to slow dance after all. You took your phone, searched for a song, and placed it on the railing of the gazebo. A few seconds later, "Right Here Waiting" by Richard Marx started playing.

You took your crush's hand in yours and led him up the stairs to the inside of the gazebo. You smiled softly as the song reached the first verse.

Oceans apart, day after day

And I slowly go insane

"Do you know how to slow dance?" you asked him. He nodded and put one arm on your hip and the other on your shoulder. You matched his movements and began to lightly sway. It was this moment you realized what it felt like to be loved. Even though he did not like you, the gesture was enough to feel something.

Wherever you go, whatever you do

I will be right here waiting for you

Whatever it takes or how my heart breaks

I will be right here waiting for you

The moon shined down on the gazebo as you slow danced. You smiled and he pulled you closer. You glanded up at his eyes and found yourself getting lost in the reflection of the fairy lights. He looked so handsome and his smile slowly melted you. The bridge of the song played and you softly sang along.

"Oh, can't you see it, baby?

You've got me goin' crazy"

Your crush laughed slightly and you could see his pupils dilate. You could tell he was having fun. The song ended and you broke apart.

You sat down on the bench and tapped the place beside it, inviting him to sit with you. He sat down beside you and put an arm around you. If you could physically melt, you would have been a puddle on the ground by now. You put your head on his shoulder and sighed softly while looking out into the darkness of the night. The stars scattered across the sky and a shooting star passed through the shining night.

"Make a wish..." you whispered.

"I wish... for this night to never end. I enjoyed this a lot," he responded. You could feel the vibration of his voice from your position.

"I second that," you said, closing your eyes. He lightly hummed and rubbed circles on your back.

At that point, you felt true peace.

I hope you enjoyed! Tag, comment, and reblog if you want!

[a-little-bit-of-tradition]

“It was a great experience [filming their confrontation],” director Jesse Lee Soffer tells Give Me My Remote in the video below. “They’re both such good actors and they know that relationship and where it’s going. It’s kind of a newer thing on the show. So, I really didn’t have to do much in that one. We just got to let them play a little bit, and I think we found the right tone.”

Outside of that emotional face-off, Soffer pointed to another Voight sequence as one of his favorite things to direct in the hour. “After 10 seasons of the show, Voight’s character is 10 years older,” he points out. “And we had a nice action sequence at the end of the episode, where I think we got to make him look really formidable and capable, still. Like a guy you don’t want to mess with. And that was really fun. And that was fun to see that come to life and to play that.”

With his directorial debut under his belt, Soffer acknowledges it’s also led to a different perspective toward his overall craft.

“Directing is really rewarding, I think, for me, at least, because you’re telling the story in like a macro way,” he says. “You’re looking at the whole story, the big picture, not just one character’s point of view. And I think, sometimes, as actors—at least I know this has happened me—you get hung up on wanting the character to be perceived a certain way. But maybe that perception that you have doesn’t fit into the writers’ intention and story.”

“And to tell the story, [via] directing, you need to not have any…you can’t have an ego about how any of these characters are going to be portrayed,” he continues. “And sometimes the story has to be, you know, dark or heartbreaking or whatever it is…I think just telling the macro version is eye-opening for an actor, because it’s going to help you justify more the next time around where there’s maybe something you don’t totally see your character as doing.”

But what comes next for Soffer? Could he direct another Wolf Entertainment show or return (in a guest capacity) as CHICAGO P.D.’s Halstead? (Halstead left earlier in the season, reenlisting and shipping out to Bolivia.)

“Definitely open to it,” Soffer says. “So we’ll see. Who knows what happens next season? You never know.”

[eliospeachie]

10 Peachy Years pt.1

⚠️DISCLAIMER⚠️

This story is heavily inspired by the book/movie called "Call Me By Your Name", I do not own the story, the character Elio, Samuel, or Anella. This story is a work of inspiration, using the script as inspiration.

Part 2 is linked below

2k words

He didn’t plan to leave the country last second, no one really did. But, there Vante was, sitting in an airport with his face covered up with sunglasses, a beanie, face mask, and even a hoodie on for extra measure. He didn’t want anyone to see him, he didn’t need to be seen like this, not after what had happened. He was just lucky to be alive and to be able to get a place to stay last second.

With the summer around, a lot of people were more than willing to rent out their homes or anything at a good price. Vante didn’t want a hotel or a home, he didn’t trust himself to be alone. He didn’t think it’d be smart to do. So, he rented out a room he had seen an ad for online, one that was in a huge home not too far away from town with an orchard of peach trees in the backyard that belonged to a daily of three.

He had bought the plane tickets and the room for the whole summer an hour before he boarded the flight with nothing more than a duffel bag as his carry on shoved with last second clothes and an ipod as a carry on item. When you’re wanting to leave behind your entire life, you don’t really want to pack that much. And when you’re filthy fucking rich, you can just buy what you need when you get there.

The plane had landed early in the morning, taking some time to change out of his clothes into something more comfortable. Even though no one would suspect Vante of being there, he still kept on his face mask, though he changed his hoodie and sweatpants for a pair of shorts and flannel he bought at the airport.

He got a taxi to go to the house he would now be residing in, his eyes watching everything pass them by, a smile never leaving his lips. He was more than excited, it wasn’t every day you get a chance to live a new life and it also wasn’t every day that your new life would be in Italy. Call it ironic, but the brunette found himself to be more than lucky.

He arrived at the house not too long after the taxi had picked him up, admiring the beautiful stone as they pulled into the gravel sidewalk, an older man and woman stepping out of the house just as Vante stepped out, large smiles on both of their faces. They didn’t seem too old, maybe old enough to be his parents actually.

“Hello!” The woman cooed, stepping over to Vante and held onto his hands, placing kisses to his cheeks. “Oh darling, welcome! I’m Anella and this is my husband Samuel!”

“Hi, it’s nice to be able to meet you both.” He smiled at the greetings from Anella, turning to Samuel to shake his hand, a small feeling of nervousness in his stomach. “I know you guys have my name and all but..can you just call me V for a while? I prefer that right now.” That, and not everyone in Italy was named Vante. He didn’t want to risk hearing a fan saying his name and sounding the alarms.

Both parents didn’t mind, simply agreeing and went into small talk about the flight and drive to the home, already asking how V liked Italy even though he had only been there for an hour at most.

“Ah, Elio can help you with those bags! Here, let me call for him.” Samuel went to the front door yelling the name he spoke of only to get no response.

“Samuel, he left earlier, remember?”

“It’s alright, I can get it myself. It’s not heavy anyways.” V chuckled softly, throwing the bag over his shoulder, using a hand to brush back his dark locks. “Is Elio your son?”

“Yes, he is!” Anella smiled at the mention of her son, sighing softly as she led both V and her husband inside, V already entranced with the home and took in what details he could on the way in. “He should be home in time for lunch. Hopefully you two can become friends.”

“Oh, I hope so too.” V chuckled softly, though knowing that might not be true. V wasn’t the best with kids so he was pretty sure that he would have a hard time making friends with the boy. But he couldn’t say that to their faces. Not when he hadn’t even met the boy just yet. “Your room will be up the stairs, the last door to your left. We put some spare clothes in the closet for you to wear when you would like to.”

Elio nodded and gave a gentle thank you before he went to the room that would now be his room for the next three months. It wasn’t that big but it wasn’t small either, just big enough for a desk, bed, and the big dresser with the clothes as promised. He went to the door that was next to the dresser to find a bathroom and then another door. Out of curiosity, he opened the second door to show another bedroom. However, this one looked lived in. There were posters on the walls, books sprawled here and there. It was probably the son’s room.

V took a much needed shower but put on the clothes he had gotten at the airport, sighing to himself as he rubbed his face and went to the window, opening it up. It was nice, the air, the crispness of it. It probably smelled that much fresher with all of the trees near them.

Soon, it was lunch. The three sat at a table outside underneath string lights that weren’t lit up just yet, it probably usually was for dinner and for events. The idea sounded cute, hopefully he would be able to see it tonight.

“Where is that boy?” Anella sighed, taking some juice to pour into her cup.

“Patience, my love. Perhaps he got too caught up. Maybe he’s on his way home now or-”

“Sono qui, sono qui! Scusa, sono così in ritardo, non volevo..” A boy suddenly ran in, one who looked about V’s age. He had a head full of curly hair that had been in a shorter cut, freckles spreading across his nose and cheeks, thick eyebrows, and piercing blue eyes. He was..handsome. The boy turned to V, a small smile on his lips as he nodded his head as a little greeting, sitting down in the chair next to him, though a bit farther, shaking his hand. “Elio. Nice to meet you.”

“V.”

The lunch went on smoothly, V mainly sitting in silence as he ate except for answering small talk questions and complimenting the food as he ate. He couldn’t help but steal a few glances at Elio every so often while sharing barely any words with him. Lunch was done fairly quickly, Elio excusing himself to go back to seeing his friends, saying he’d be back for dinner.

And that’s how it went on for the next few weeks. The two boys barely exchanged words together, him mainly staying in his room, out with his friends, or somewhere that V wasn’t. But, one day he got lucky, going into the kitchen where Anella was peeling some peaches, Elio occasionally stealing a piece of the fruit, him and his mother giggling as V walked down, smiling at the two. It was cute to see a family together.

“Oh, V! Buongiorno! Come hai dormito?”

V stood there in the doorway for a second, trying to figure out what the woman meant as he shoved his hands into the pockets of his shorts, his mouth open as his brain tried to search for an answer. “Uh..”

Elio laughed a little, taking another piece of fruit from the bowl. “She asked you how you slept.”

“Oh-” V chuckled with the other two, shaking his head a little in embarrassment. “Yeah, yeah I slept pretty good. The bed actually seems to get more comfortable each night.”

Anella nodded, lightly smacking Elio’s hand when he tried to steal yet another piece, muttering something to him before turning back to glance at V, placing the mango peels onto a napkin on the side. “Were you wanting something to eat? Perhaps some juice?”

“No thank you, Mrs. Perlman. I was actually wondering if you knew where a good cafe close by would be? I want to go into town so I can maybe grab a thing or two from the shops and thought it would be nice to stop by at one.”

“I can show you one.” Elio pitched, catching both Anella and V by surprise, mainly because he didn’t expect the other to volunteer. “I can show you around the town as well. And I’m sure I can help you be your translator.” He took himself off the counter he was leaning on and walked past V, lightly patting his arm as he did. “Come on, we can use the bikes.”

So, the two took the two bikes as Elio said and rode into town. It didn’t take long, five minutes or so? The ride was quiet between the two as they went in, stopping at the cafe Elio had mentioned. He, of course, ordered for the both of them, getting them some blueberry muffins as well since they both didn’t have breakfast.

“Are you from around here?” V asked, looking up at the other sitting across from him while taking a bite of the muffin on his plate.

Elio shook his head, reaching into his pocket and took out a pack of cigarettes, placing one between his lips. “No,” he answered simply. “We used to come here during the summer. And Christmas and a uh..another holiday. But dad grew too attached to here so now we live here.”

“Christmas?” V chuckled, his eyes on the pack of cigarettes. It hadn’t been too long since he last smoked, he was trying to quit, having a cup of coffee every time he wanted one. It was kind of working, only if the coffee was black. When Elio held the pack out to him, as if asking if he wanted one, it took everything in V to shake his head with a polite no, turning his eyes towards the muffin instead.

Elio hummed, taking the lighter and lit the stick between his lips. “And Easter too. We are Jewish, English, American, Italian, French... somewhat atypical.” He laughed a little, taking a puff of the cigarette and moved it away to blow the smoke away from him.

V hummed, nodding his head a little. “I see. What do you and your family do here?”

“Mm, wait for summer to end.” Both boys shared a laugh at that, V shaking his head.

“No no, seriously. What do you do at least? Besides the waiting and hanging out with your friends all of the time?”

Elio sighed a little, his smile staying on his lips, placing the stick back between his lips as he spoke once more. “Transcribe music. Read books. Swim at the river. Go out at night.”

V nodded, tilting his head as he took a moment to look the man over. He could see that, Elio at his desk with headphones over his ears and scribbling on a piece of paper what notes he heard or laying in his bed with a book in his hands. It didn’t sound that surprising.

“Let me ask you something,” Elio chimed, making V snap out of his little daydreams of the other. “Why did you choose to come to Italy if you can’t even speak Italian?”

V couldn’t hide his little laugh of embarrassment, looking off to the side and leaned back in his seat, starting to pick at his nails. It was a little habit he had grown to do it the past few weeks, picking at his hangnails. “I needed somewhere to go last second. I wanted a bit of a summer getaway and uh..what better place than Italy?” Both of them shared a laugh once again, V taking the last bit of his muffin. “I do want to be here for a while though so I might as well learn, right?”

“Maybe I can teach you?”

[moonrisecalamityretreat]

the one you should not have killed || loic || body reaction

[♫♫♫]

It’s funny.

That’s such an odd phrase because, no, it’s not. Not really. It’s not funny at all. But it is, isn’t it? It’s funny. Because it’s a joke. This entire situation is a joke--this entire world is, honestly, if a scenario like this could exist. But it’s not a joke, and no one’s laughing because this is reality. Mio Date is dead on the ground in front of him, and there’s a bloody axe in the corner of the room that took its life, and there was nothing he could do. Again. Nothing. Nothing.

Nothing.

Was this what it had felt, being the one to discover the body each and every time? Left to wonder if she had been just a little bit faster if she could have done something?

Exsanguination. She’d bled out.

Maybe if he had come here earlier, come here faster, done something different, then she would still be with them. He could have gotten help. He could have stopped Yuriko from being forced to feel the same pain he’d felt when Hisa had fallen through the floor. Who was he kidding, though? It was just as much for him as it was for Yuriko. Maybe he wouldn’t have to look down at the body of yet another friend and wonder why he could never do anything for anyone until it was too late.

To say Mio was a comforting presence would be minimizing everything that she did for him to a disgusting degree. She was stabilizing, maybe, is the better word--providing comfort while also providing a foundation for him to keep his footing. When he felt his faith in the group slipping again, he could easily look to Yuriko or Mio for the reminder that things were okay. There were people worth fighting for by his side. Their faith in the group, even, made it easier to look around him and feel…like maybe he’d been too quick to judge some people. It saw good in everyone, even people who didn’t deserve it. Like himself. He wasn’t self-centered enough to not count himself in that number.

But what was it that it had said?

“Honestly, it's hard to be nice all the time, too. I mean, I... I've thought that a lot since I got here. People try to take advantage of that and stuff. And it's tiring.”

He’d shared similar sentiments when he’d still been allowed to claim those sorts of things about himself. It was tiring. Everything around here made it tiring. But it had still kept it up. It had a kindness that was borderline inspirational. It said it wished she had more of a spine, but, really, he thought she had a stronger spine than any of them, keeping herself as loving as she had while in a place like this.

Maybe it wasn’t borderline inspirational. It just was inspirational.

More than she was an inspiration, though, she was a friend. Conversations between them were inevitably some of the highlights of his time here. Mio was like a spotlight. He couldn’t help but want to be in its presence. Whether it was talking about how they were in some sort of Mario-esque game and lamenting how they probably had to go through an ice level still or playing the most agonizing game of Battleship known to man, it was fun. It was no-strings-attached fun.

Even in the aftermath of his betrayal, Mio found it in her heart to forgive him to such an extent that she was willing to still offer him that sort of unconditional fun. 

…And someone had the audacity, perhaps, to take advantage of that kindness. 

As he kneels down next to its body beside Yuriko, a distant thought that had stayed in his mind but not necessarily at the forefront of it occurs to him, and he feels his chest clench as he solidifies it like a promise.

The Shepherd was going to pay for this. If Mikazuki intended to kill them, then he would hold them down so she could finish her mission in the easiest manner possible.

Someone whose actions led to someone like Mio being taken from them didn’t deserve to have a chance to live. If Mio’s life was to be cut short here, then they didn’t deserve the kindness of another day. Maybe the Shepherd didn’t put the axe in Mio’s back--they would figure that out soon enough--but they were the reason the axe was there in the first place.

“I’m sorry.”

Sorry for not being able to save it. Sorry for being too slow. Sorry for being a bad person and an even worse friend.

And sorry for breaking his promise to her. Good people couldn’t wish for people’s deaths, could they?

But, well, dead people couldn’t be disappointed.

[askdottie]

Dottie was watching Brett just as intently as he'd just watched her, already able to anticipate when he was going to do something familiar. Eyes flicking up to his hair as soon as his hand started its ascent, it was a comfort to know that she still knew him so well.

Though the hair had been a surprise.

She'd noticed, of course. It was impossible not to. And she had questions. But until he brought it up she was avoiding the topic as best she could. It was obvious that he didn't like it and she knew better than to bring up a bad (even though it wasn't) haircut. Her old bob was high up on their do not discuss list, and she owed him the same courtesy.

…But it was a breakup haircut. A new year, new me haircut. She didn't know what he may or may not have been on that night, but it must have been something to get him to make such a monumental change.

And meanwhile, what had she been up to?

"I went home and just sort of… went to bed," Dottie shrugged. Of course, that wasn't quite what she'd done. She hadn't wanted to bother Harmony or Suzy with the relationship drama she knew they'd been far too patient with, so she'd gone home and cycled through her various social media accounts (TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, and BeReal), watching video after video of her peers having the time of their young lives, devouring the images of the afterparties in full swing, and leaving nice comments on the posts of the most popular students.

It was pathetic, she knew, but her pathological need to be liked and included had made itself very present that night, and she'd only ended up sad and alone at the end of the day.

She was starting to think that was going to be the story of her life. A wild thought, given that she was still somehow in a relationship.

Glancing over at Brett as he took a seat next to her, she couldn't help but wonder if he knew she was feeding him half-truths. That she'd been doing so for quite some time in order to keep his thoughts about her leaning towards the positive. Given that he truly knew her best, had he seen through things? Did he know just how much of a mess she was? He cared for her - she could see that - but did he like all of the newer parts of her that she'd taken on during her identity crisis? Harmony's confidence and Suzy's intensity and... whatever it was she got from Kitty?

Luckily she couldn't spiral too far into those thoughts, as her boyfriend immediately concluded his homecoming recap with a wild story. Somehow (due to growth, maybe) she ignored the hurt that came from the person she was closest to having the big college experiences she'd always dreamt of having (crowd surfing with her personal hero Kitty Wilde!!!) without her. But the simple wow she uttered was completely genuine. It was impossible for her to picture Brett and Kitty crowd surfing together, the Cheerio existing so strongly in another part of her life that she couldn't fathom them overlapping outside of her field of vision.

And then they were back to the topic of hair.

Mirroring his earlier actions, Dottie found herself reaching over to gently run a hand over Brett's short hair without much thought, fingers trailing down to softly trace his jaw. At some point her actions might've led to a kiss, which could've led to varying levels of physical intimacy, but lately they'd always diverted to little moments of affection. Smaller and smaller as the months had gone by.

Was that... sustainable?

"I think you look nice," she insisted then, her hand falling to her side. "Different, for sure, but it's not a bad different. But, Brett..."

He'd brought it up first. The hair conversation. It meant he was open to talking about it. And they really had to talk about it. She'd never seen him display a warning sign as big as cutting off his precious hair.

"Did you... do it because we had a fight?"

It was a hard question to ask. She'd so rarely dragged them into a conversation where they could confront their destructive tendencies, but Dottie was having a hard time piecing together how such a major change had happened. What else could have possibly caused it? A family matter? School? ...the fight with Jacob? Surely everything was going to be fine regarding the latter - Jacob was like a cockroach. Against all odds their bond seemed indestructible.

As opposed to Brett and Dottie's connection, which over the past few years had always seemed just one unforgivable statement away from completely shattering. Was the band conversation another tightrope walk? Was she going to have to shut him down?

"A band?" She was momentarily floored, unable to say great idea because she wasn't sure if it was. It was truly a fine line to walk - should she be blindly supportive or should she be protective? Nine times out of ten, protective had won. But things were changing between the two of them. She could feel it. Unbeknownst to them, there was a distance that had been steadily growing. The foundation of the house they'd build was unstable and it was only a matter of time before the house of cards around them came crashing down. Was she going to let it be over a his desire to start a music group? When so many music groups had not-as-great frontliners?

"That could be so fun!" she managed enthusiastically. "What kind of band?"

Brett didn’t like to think about the past, mostly because there were too many what ifs. What if his dad hadn’t felt the need to sell? What if he hadn’t sold any drugs to Jacob’s father? What if he had stayed when the other man died? And those were in regards to his father. He had more than plenty of what ifs about his own life to even start to worry about the one’s regarding his old man. What if he and Dottie had never gotten together and remained only friends? What if instead of taking her picture for an innocent school project, he’d taken a picture of his best friend and shown him off? What if…

It wasn’t that he regretted it, no. But just maybe, in another universe, the two of them could’ve been happy. Brett wouldn’t be a fuck up and knew he was. Dottie wouldn’t be molding herself out of different people because she knew who she was. Maybe in this universe, the cosmos had decided they would be much too powerful and cut them both off at the knees. Sometimes it truly felt like that.

“You better.” He resisted the temptation to boop her nose, instead keeping his hands to himself. There was only a slight tremor in them, the worst of the withdrawals had passed already. It helped that he no longer did anything harder than a few pills, all too aware of the consequences of his actions after sophomore year. He’d always been a fidgeter though, even before he pumped his system with an absurd amount of drugs.

Brett had always been able to play with his hair at times like this though and he couldn’t control the muscle memory of reaching up to try to do that now. His fingertips brushed nothing until he was rubbing at the back of his head, the unfamiliar feeling of his hair being so short he could only barely grasp it. He was at least relieved to find that it was growing, he couldn’t do that before.

But not fast enough... That seemed to be himself wrapped up in a metaphor. Growing, trying to change into someone who could stand on his own. But falling short. He didn't want to cause problems for the people who loved him, didn't want to cause worry. What had happened though? He had once again found himself locked up, calling his lawyer who had apparently disregarded the frantic don't call him, just call Sam. Brett was still trying to figure out if it was disappointment or not that the man hadn't been there when he got out. He wasn't going to think about him though.

Taking in Dottie’s frown, he sighed as he realized she probably regretted asking now. “What did you do, hm?” Brett asked, genuinely curious. He knew he had his support system, but who did Dottie have he wondered? Her judgmental parents? Her even more judgmental friends? Who pieced Dorothea Odette Kazatori back together? He really doubted it was Suzy Peppers.

He forced himself to sit back on his bed next to his girlfriend, their thighs brushing together. It was crazy to think that at one point, just that small amount of contact was enough to have Brett wanting more. But now? He wasn’t even sure of the last time the two had been really intimate. They had shared a few years where they couldn’t keep their hands off of each other, taking in comfort in the only form they could get. The one that left both of them able to forget they were anything more than a pair of bodies that felt loved for few blissful moments.

Brett was still able to read the surprise in her eyes, mostly because he was looking for it. He grinned back at her, nodding. “Yeah, it was a Menzingers’ song called I Don’t Wanna Be an Asshole Anymore. Thanks, baby.” The pet name slipped out like nothing and he uncrossed his arms so he could rub the top of his legs, hesitating to bring voice to something he had been thinking about lately. “Sam put a stop to it, but I mean, I guess not because he didn’t like it. I think it was ‘cause the football guys were drunk and trying to crowd surf Kitty and I. So you know him, he literally grabbed the both of us and carried us out on his shoulders.”

It was not the first, or last, time that the blond man had carried Brett out of a party, but it was a first for the cheerleader to be joining them. If he’d known how much drama it would cause, he almost wished they would’ve left her there. But they’d had fun together and so he hoped him and his roommate didn’t absolutely destroy her reputation for trying to help. “Then we came back here and I uh, well…” He ran his hand over the rest of his short hair, grimacing. “I know you always wanted me to give short hair a chance, Dottie, but this is horrible.” There was a pout forming on his lips as he looked at his girlfriend.

“Hate it 100%, will never do it again. Don’t make me. After that though, he called in Kurt who made it look better and I knocked the fuck out. So no Eiffel Tower and Kitty’s virtue remains intact.” Brett sighed, wishing it was that simple and the rest of the people who read Cleo’s blog would believe it. But he knew, as they both did, how people were prone to tearing into each other. Still, he gathered his strength and whispered, “I want to start a band.”

[brittle-doughie]

Heya, I'm new to your blog, but I immediately fell in love with the disastrous life of Y/N cookie😅

Is it possible to request a small fic about y/n cookie looking for an engagement ring and the other cookies wracking their brains over who the lucky cookie is? Pls and thanks♡

Let Me Be Your Relay Cookie

It do be a nice looking ring tho.

Hearing that Y/N Cookie was on the search for a missing wedding ring has led various others to push their advances and deeds further in order to win their favor!

Cheesecake Cookie would whisk you away to a more glorious party then usual! Much of the food was your favorite and the gifts were oddly things you wanted for a while now, alongside some top coin items like the latest model of phone, TV, game console, etc. Cheesecake was going to get you these things earlier, but hearing about an engagement ring really accelerated her plans! She treats you to a dance, fawns on you as you make conversation with her and other cookies, and goes out of her way to prove that she’s the perfect cookie for you! Just say the word and she’ll buy you anything you need!

After a long party, it would be Sea Fairy who comes across you next as you searched along the beach. She got really interested when you explained that you were looking for a wedding ring, she couldn’t stop blushing as she helped you look for it. She dreamed of the day you’d present her the ring, to ask her to be your one and only. She’s overly affectionate throughout your searching, hopeful that when you do find it, you’d propose to her right then and there~

Until right on cue, two more legendaries join the fray. Word traveled fast and the news of Y/N Cookie looking for an engagement ring was all the two needed to hear to come running, however it was obvious that the two cookies didn’t appreciate the presence of the other. Fire Spirit tried taking you along to look for the ring in the Dragon’s Valley, Wind Archer objected and suggested that he and Y/N Cookie look in the forests to find the ring! Sea Fairy grew irrriated and started to argue among them, the three legendaries starting a yelling match over who got to look for the ring..and who Y/N Cookie would marry! You awkwardly announced your departure and left as the three continued to argue.

You did figure that maybe the ring was in the vast forests, so it wouldn’t hurt to take a look. Bellflower Cookie greeted you as she sprouted out of the bushes, she did apologize after scaring you like that. She said that she was looking medicinal herbs when she heard that you were looking for a ring and she was happy to help look for it with you. The two of you strolled together as you looked around, Bellflower leaning close to you as she can. She talked about a certain that she was making, not for medicine or anything, but a herb that signified the bond between cookies, she hopes to gift that herb to the cookie for her some day, she hopes she isn’t too late to give it…as she stares right at you…

You tried the art gallery in town, where Butter Pretzel was waiting for you..for some reason. She greeted you with joy and a hug as she guided you to her latest craft, it was a portrait of you! She had this sudden burst of motivation lately that compelled to work on this masterpiece, she wanted to make sure it was absolutely perfect and didn’t miss out on any details. Many cookies have come to try and claim it, but were shunned away as she believed you couldn’t put a price on such a wonderful piece of a wonderful cookie! You chuckled and thanked for this wonderful piece, she casually waved it off and said it was no big deal, now if you could just tell her who the lucky cookie for that ring of yours was for! You struggled to answer her as she leaned in close to your face until her phone rang, her beaming eyes quickly turned to a scowl as she answered, almost yelling at whoever was at the other side! They were ruining the moment! You took a quick look around of the place before concluding it wasn’t here, you left right as Butter Pretzel got any louder yelling at her phone.

Croissant Cookie, being your best pal and all, is quick to arrive at your current location to help you to find what you’re trying to find, the ring! She offered to travel in time to track where you last left it and help get it back much quicker! You reminded her that even Timekeeper can’t exactly pinpoint any timeline involving you, something Croissant sheepishly agreed with, but was determined to help find this ring for you! She was so giddy and excited as she searched with you, she was waiting for the moment you found it and proposed to her! It only makes sense being you two were so close and such, no other cookie was fit to be your spouse more then her!

You were looking around the surrounding neighborhoods when you heard beeping sound of a vehicle next to you, it was Pizza Cookie in her bike. She asked you to hop in and the both of you can cover way more ground way more faster looking for that ring! You pretty much accepted that every cookie knew you were missing your ring and hopped in, she offered you a piece of pizza as you looked around. You needed to leave a good review at the shop, this cheese was wonderful in texture and flavor, Pizza’s grin could only get so wide as she watched you bite into the pizza. Surely the love of pizza meant a love for her, when they find that ring, she’s certain Y/N Cookie will propose to her soon after. She would so post about being engaged to a great cookie like you~

Kumiho Cookie took this as an opportunity to reclaim her spot as the focus of your affection, it would break her heart further to see you wedded to a cookie that wasn’t her. You were put off by how persistent she was coming along with you to look for it, she made the occasional remark about how much she cared about you as a friend and wished to help you out to find the ring. Her tail would raise up in worry and fear at the mention of any other cookie in your words that were close about the topic of the ring, especially Blueberry Pie Cookie. She felt territorial, she refuses to lose you again to another. She won’t allow it…

You were an outsider, but you were well acquainted with Blue Lily enough that she was more then happy to help you look for your ring in the forests near the tree. She’s more soft with you compared to other outsider cookies, smiling more often and intrigued by what you had to say. She gave her two cents about your ring, that the cookie you get engaged with should meet your standards and be just as capable to love you back as much as you love them. She won’t stand it if the cookie you marry doesn’t treat you right and she’ll see to it that they are reprimanded accordingly, she just cares about you too much to let you suffer in what’s supposed to be a great marriage. That cookie should treat you wonderfully, a cookie…like her~

You eventually do find the ring alone. You took it home and placed it in your closet as you took Blue Lily’s words to heart. The ring should go to the cookie that will love you as much as you love them. You had a small smile on your face as you closed the closet door. The ring will have its wearer when the time was right…

[dilemmaontwolegs]

*gasps* empty inbox? well we can’t have that! just wanted to say thanks for churning out fics the way that you do. you’re a machine and i love reading your work.

do you ever think bucky would be able to hide his life with the reader away from everyone else? (with the exception of steve and maybe sam bc, well he’s sam ofc he’s gonna find out). he tries his hardest to keep the two separate because he never wants to put you in danger with his work but one day he has to bring the 2 together (almost like a clint and laura in ultron type vibe).

if this sparks interest for a full fic i won’t mind but you could also answer with some short thoughts and i’d be more than thrilled xx

*fans face* too much, too much, you're gonna make me cry! I don't know how to do anything half measure so you have a full fic my sweets xx

Family First || Bucky

Warnings: 18+ only, nsfw, mentions of injuries, guns, violence, fluff WC: 2.1k

main masterlist || bucky masterlist || Part One || Part Two || Prequel Blurb

“Shh, sweetie, daddy will be home soon.” You cooed as your daughter cried for Bucky.

The ice pack on her ankle didn’t seem to be helping but at least the bandage on her knee had stopped the bleeding. You checked your phone once again, seeing he had read the message you sent and you cradled her head close to your chest. At least this latest injury wasn’t as bad as the time she broke her wrist falling out of a tree. You had to admit you didn’t handle that very well but it was the first serious injury your daughter had sustained. You had left a hysterical voicemail for him that really didn’t explain what had happened, only that you were rushing your daughter to hospital.

Bucky had charged in like he was about to face down a legion of aliens again, Steve and Sam right behind him. You weren’t sure who was more surprised, you at the fact he had brought friends from work or them at the fact he had a family. It was no secret being married to anyone in the Avengers was a risk but out of all of them, Bucky thought he had the biggest target because of who he used to be. After Bucky had seen that your daughter was safe, hurt but safe, he had introduced you to the men you had heard so much about and swore them to secrecy.

“You have a daughter?” Steve was still stunned at the revelation and his eyebrows were almost crushed together as the nurse had stepped out into the waiting area and called out her name.

“Sarah Barnes?”

Steve looked like he was going to cry when he realised Bucky had named her after his mom. They two men were still waiting there when she was released a few hours later with a bright pink cast covering her arm.

“Do you think Captain America and the Falcon could sign it, mommy?” She had asked, turning her bright blue eyes that she got from her father on you just like he did when he wanted you to say yes to something.

“Only if they want to.” You nodded with a small smile, leaning into your husband's embrace as you finally took a breath that the ordeal was over. “I’m sorry, I just freaked out.”

“It’s okay.” He had chuckled, rubbing soothing circles over your back. “I’m surprised we went this long without them finding out. I’m just glad you two are alright. When I heard you crying I thought…doesn’t matter, you’re both fine and that’s all that matters to me.”

You looked over at Sarah and saw she had climbed up onto the bench between Steve and Sam to regale the story that had led to her broken arm. You would not have thought that only three hours earlier she was a screaming mess and now she was anything but.

“Do you have to go back to work or do you want to invite them over for dinner?”

“If I have to eat another tv dinner I swear I’ll lose my mind.” Sam answered for them.

“I didn’t say you were invited.” Bucky shot back and you nudged your elbow into his ribs.

“You are both welcome to come. It’ll be nice to talk to someone who actually knows my husband exists and doesn’t think he is some fictitious character I made up.” You half joked and Sam gave you an odd look. “Parent teacher night last year. That really happened.”

His booming laugh filled the hallway and he held his hand up in apology to the nurses that looked his way disapprovingly before he clapped Bucky on the back. “Ouch, that has gotta hurt man.”

You were pulled from your thoughts as the sound of tyres crunching the gravel driveway filled the quiet countryside and up to the porch swing you were sitting on. You wiped away the latest tears that clung to Sarah’s eyelashes and pointed to the dust trail snaking up the hillside.

“See there’s daddy.” You smiled. “I told you he would come.”

Your smile faltered as you saw the reflection of the roof and realised it was black but Bucky’s SUV was silver. Not wanting to alarm her, you scooped her up and carried her inside. “That dust is going to get everywhere if I don’t shut the door.”

You placed her down on the couch and shut the front door, quietly bolting the locks in place and opened the coat closet to get the gun and burner phone that was hidden inside. You hit the only number that was programmed and it was answered on the first ring.

“Bucky, someone’s here.” You rushed as you peeked through the curtain beside the door.

“I need you and Sarah to go down to the basement. Lock yourself inside and don’t come out for anyone but me, Steve or Sam.” You had known him long enough to recognise his voice when he was scared, god knows you had held him through the nights when he cried and he had that same voice now.

“What’s going on baby?”

“Someone hacked us, they stole almost every piece of information on each of us.” He admitted and you heard metal groan as he put his vibranium fist through it. “I’m so fucking sorry, I think they know about you, about Sarah.”

You shoved the phone into the crook of your neck and shoved the gun down the back of your waistband before scooping up Sarah from the couch. “We are going to go treasure hunting downstairs ok sweetie.”

“That’s not daddy is it?” She asked as she heard the car doors slam closed and squealed.

“Daddy’s coming, Sarah.” Bucky called out as he heard his daughters panic but she couldn’t hear, even you could barely make out his words as the cell signal cut out the further down the stairs you descended. “I love you - so much. I’m on - way.”

“We love you too.”

You prayed he heard you before the call dropped and you put Sarah down roughly as you heard the front door slam, it would take all your strength to push shut the heavy reinforced steel door. Sarah cried as her ankle gave way beneath her and she fell to the ground but you had to focus on shutting the door, it was all there was between you and the men you could hear ransacking your home.

“It’s okay, sweetie, I know it's scary, mommy’s scared too.” You rasped as you held back your tears and brushed Sarah’s dark hair back from her face.

She was a prettier feminine image of Bucky and sometimes you thought the only thing she got from you was your clumsiness. Especially now, she bit her bottom lip to stop it from trembling and she hugged her arms around your neck as you sat in the corner, hidden by a barrier of moving boxes you had never ended up unpacking.

“It’s okay mommy, you don't have to be scared. Daddy’s going to save us from the bad men.”

There was not a single speck of doubt and you nodded your head, wishing you had the infallible hopes of a child but fear of reality kept grounding you with despair. It felt like hours but the phone showed it was only minutes later that the men descended the stairs and the loud rounds of gunfire rang out as they tried to shoot through the door. Sarah’s screams pierced your eardrums and you cradled her to your chest even tighter, wondering how long it would take for them to break through.

You were sitting ducks if they managed to get through and there were so many things you never got to say to Bucky. Dropping the useless burner phone, you pulled yours from your smartphone pocket and opened the voice recorder since it didn’t have any bars of signal either.

“Do you want to tell daddy how much you love him so we can play it for him when he gets here?” You asked as your voice broke at the lie and you hit the red record button.

“I can’t wait to see you bust in the door daddy! You’re going to kick their asses.” She growled proudly before you mouthed I love you. “I love you, daddy, you’re the bestest.”

“Mommy will be back in a minute.” You carefully moved her off you so that she was hidden behind the boxes and you walked to the opposite corner as you swallowed the lump in your throat and put the phone back up to your lips. “This is probably the worst time but I never thanked you. I know this is the worst case scenario you always feared and I wish I could see a way where we get out of this but…if this is it, I want you to know I don’t regret us. I know how guilty you feel and I know you will blame yourself but this was not your fault, baby, it was not your fault.

I knew the second I saw you in the market that you would change my life and I’m so glad you did, James. You gave me the world, you gave me your heart, you gave me a family. I-” You heard the door starting to groan and saw the hinges turning red as they torched their way through, panic gripping your last words and holding them hostage in your throat and you had to raise your voice over the sound of the blow torch. “I love you, so fucking much!”

“That’s a naughty word!”

You sobbed a laugh as you ended the recording and attached it to an email so that the moment your phone had signal it would complete its final mission to reach your husband. Tears blurred your vision as you pulled Sarah into your embrace and hummed the tune to hush little baby, just like you did when she was a baby.

Screams and gunfire broke out and you covered Sarah’s ears as her own cries added to the noise, her fear finally overriding the faith she had in her father. You could see the line of fire had almost completely made its way through the hinges on the door and the metal was groaning under the pressure of its weight pulling it down. Light broke through the room as the door gave way, the crash of it hitting the concrete floor threatening to blow your eardrums and it shook the foundations of the house.

“Sarah! Y/N!”

Sarah tore your hands away as she heard her dad’s voice and she tried to get up but you pulled her back down. “Wait! Wait for daddy to come to us, sweetie.”

You struggled to hold her still as she tried to run towards the voice that promised her safety but you didn’t know how many men stood between you and him. You pressed your lips to her forehead and begged her to stay silent until she finally quietened down. The gunfire was no longer constant and it was only every few breaths that one or two shots went off and you weren’t sure if that was good or bad.

Heavy footsteps descended the stairs and you heard a deeply relieved sigh before you caught sight of Bucky’s boots stepping into your line of sight. “DADDY!!!”

You let Sarah go as she jumped up, Bucky easily catching her and cradling her to his chest and he checked over her for any injuries, aside from the scrap of falling off her bike.

“Told you I would come for you babygirl.” He choked as he peppered her forehead with kisses. “Daddy’ll always come for his two best girls.”

You had sagged with relief at seeing him arrive and your eyes closed as you realised the terror was over. You opened your eyes as you felt movement and found Bucky sitting beside you and pulling you into his side so he could hug you both.

“I have some bad news.” He murmured quietly as he ran his hand up and down your arm and kissed your forehead.

“You got blood on the carpet.” You tried to joke but your voice failed to hold any humour.

“That too.” He said, the ghost of a smile tipping up at your attempt. “There’s some more people I want you to meet.”

“Who else came with you?” You asked, worried about even more people knowing but grateful for their help nonetheless. You watched him chew his lip and knew it was bad before he even answered.

“Everyone.”

Part Two/Parallel Story

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[coastielaceispunk]

Loved and Loaded - Gun Play with Zach Wellison

This is dedicated to my lovely @ezrasbirdie on their birthday! You showed special interest in this story and helped give me the confidence to write it, so here it is! All for you because you deserve all the things! Hope you had a wonderful time celebrating YOU, love!

Loved and Loaded

Zach Wellison x f!reader

Word Count: 4.9K+ (I am not sorry)

Warnings: Language, feelings, fluff, insecurities, military service mentions, past homelessness, use of firearms, descriptions of firearms, GUN PLAY (shotgun and pistol, NO insertion), gun competence kink, anxiety and PTSD, idiots in love, oral m receiving, unprotected PinV, little dirty talk, little begging, little cum play, little cockwarming, creampie. This got a little away from me because Zach deserves the world ok?!  

Masterlist | Kinktober Outline | Absurdthirst's Kinktober Prompt List

+++++

Your boyfriend Zach is an angel, and sometimes you think you don’t deserve him because of how good he is to you. Dating five months now, you know you have already fallen for this warm and safe man. You want to say those three words but you don’t want to scare him off, even if you think he feels the same. It’s almost like an emotional standoff, both of you afraid of the same things because of your pasts. Zach is your angel, but an angel with many demons. Demons you have chosen to protect him against because you love him.

You met Zach when you moved into your new apartment in the big city, he is actually the building manager and has his own apartment on the top floor. You remember thinking to yourself, what a nice gig. This tall, broad shouldered, handsome brunette with deep chocolate eyes met you in the lobby to help you move in and tell you everything you needed to know about the building amenities and the area. You couldn’t stop staring at his beautiful nose that led to pink plush lips, if he noticed he didn’t say, and just smiled softly at you. He was so personable, and when he shook your hand and said your name for the first time, you were a goner. 

Zach helped you with your few boxes into the one-bedroom, his easy strength making the task fly by to your dismay. You wanted to know him more, wanted to see him in your new space. Strangely…he fit. Well, he made everything you own and the doorways he stood in look small, but he fit there. It seemed he didn’t want to leave right away either because he stayed and asked more about you, already past small talk. Learning that both of you were single made you take the leap.

“Zach, would you like to grab a coffee sometime? Maybe show me your favorite cafe you mentioned earlier?”

He watched as you nervously fiddled with the piece of tape in your hands, lifting his eyes to yours he sighed, “Yes, wow, I was trying to work up the courage to ask you, ha, sorry I’m no good at this. That would be great.”

Zach rubbed at the back of his neck and you stepped closer to place your hand on his arm. “You’re so good at this, that’s why I asked!”

Both of you smiled and for a second you were lost in his eyes again, his arm so warm under your hand beneath his flannel. 

“If you want to take a break now that everything's safe here, I could take you to lunch? I’d like to hear more about your new job.”

“I’d love that, Zach.”

That lunch turned into a walk through the park, then ice cream, then take-out Thai for a picnic dinner on the floor of your new apartment. He insisted on eating in his apartment but you’d thought this would be fun. It was. More intimate and relaxed, no pressure, small touches and so many shared laughs about the people you saw on your walk. Zach was very good at this, and honestly, you both seemed to just want to spend time together. 

Zach was an open book about his life, wanting you to know everything about him early on during your dates. “I don’t like secrets and I am not ashamed,” he had said to you on your third date holding your hand tight. That’s when you learned of his struggles and your heart weeped for him. It’s been three years but you can’t imagine it will hurt any less as time goes on. Looking at him and his happy demeanor, you would have never guessed he was ever homeless. You knew he was a veteran- a Marine- with three tours in Afghanistan, only by one of the very few photos he had around his place. He was so thin but had since filled out, happy and healthy. He jokes he needs to work out and you just shut him down with a kiss these days. It hurts your heart to this day to think of what he may have looked like when he didn’t have a home. You rarely have a reason to think like that though, Zach is who he is now and he's thriving.

One of the very few success stories, he is. The military failed him after he sacrificed so much for them, serving his country to come home to nothing, only to be discarded and forgotten. Zach was a smart man who never turned to drugs or alcohol, even after two years when it seemed there was no hope for change after everything he did. Then after a brawl in the park where he slept, a park you’ve been to many times in the past, hope came in the form of a brother, Justin. Zach calls him a pain in his ass lovingly because then he was in the worst place and didn’t want the hand out. Justin gave him a place to sleep and an introduction for a job but Zach did the rest with his hard work ethic and personability. Justin is an amazing friend to this day, and tells you all the time he is so happy Zach found you.

When you started staying over at each other’s apartments more and more, there was nothing you didn’t know about one another. Knowing how his breath would hitch when you kissed just under his ear or how a groan would feel vibrating from his chest behind you, made you want him forever. You knew what he needed when he had a nightmare holding him close whispering you’ve got him. He knew how to ease your anxiety on your rougher days. You learned each other so quickly like it was seamlessly meant to be. The first Sunday morning you woke up in his bed, tangled naked limbs, he told you about how he took back some control over his traumas.

Every Sunday morning, Zach would go to the local indoor shooting range. He asked if it was something you would like to go with him to see and you didn’t hesitate in saying yes. You weren’t a fan of guns but if it was part of his life, you wanted to be there for him. The smile on his face lit up the whole room.

“My father taught me when I was young ‘guns are for safe sport shooting or subsistence hunting nothing else,’ he taught me how to shoot when I was a kid duck hunting,” Zach smiled fondly at the memory of his dad and you hugged him tighter knowing how much he missed him, “then I went to war…,” you scratched the short scruff on his chin to bring him back to you, “so me going to the range to shoot kinda reclaims the calm I used to have and serves his memory.”

“That’s beautiful, Zach, let’s get dressed and go then, I would love to see you shoot.”

Not knowing what to expect you followed his lead and dressed comfortably, more of your belongings finding their home in his apartment, then with to-go coffees in hand you watched Zach grab a long gun case from the guest room closet. Didn’t spend too much time there so of course you didn’t know of its existence until now.

“How many guns do you own?” It wasn’t accusatory, it just kind of flew out of your mouth.

“Just two, a shotgun and a pistol, they were my dad’s.”

Oh goodness, he's a sweetheart. Them being family heirlooms makes it better in your mind for whatever reason, he doesn't give off the I gotta have every new rifle guy vibe, which is great. Never did, and it’s not like you're reevaluating anyways. 

Your first time at the range was pretty fun. The smell of gun oil and smoke surrounded the space. Everyone there knew Zach and he introduced you to every single person as his girlfriend, swoon, and they were all super nice. It was so social it surprised you and he looked so at ease. You watched as he got all set up at his “usual booth” opening the case and handing you his ear muffs and yellow shooting safety glasses, he said you looked so cute and you blushed. Zach borrowed hearing protection and glasses from the range box. Then he pulled the shotgun and pistol free from their case. Your jaw dropped. They were huge and Zach handled them like they weighed nothing.

He caught your look as you sat beside him on the tall stool and smirked. You didn’t know but he was so happy you were there with him and he was going to show off a little. Wait until you see what his hands can really do.

Your first trip to the range was months ago. At first you went for support, now you go for your own selfish reasons. Zach’s competence with these guns is fucking hot. Watching him handle the mechanics of the shotgun makes you burn. How he flicks the safety switches and levers of the pistol makes you jealous of the piece of metal. And he knows…he has to, because every Sunday night you are insatiable. Shit, sometimes right when you get home from the range forgoing your lunch to climb him in the living room. 

The confidence he exudes with the long single barrel shotgun in his arms is so sexy it makes you stupid. The spark of the muzzle flash lighting up his gorgeous profile every shot. The wide stance of his long legs, the even breaths you see him take as his tummy rises and falls before he pulls the trigger, the stock of the gun pressed firm against his broad shoulder absorbing the recoil like its nothing, and his hands. For fuck sake his hands. His hands are so large they fully surround the grip and slide. His palm is almost too wide and his fingers almost too long, which seems impossible but it's true. It’s like parts of his big hands get in his damn way, especially when shooting the pistol.

Zach’s firm hold on the pump action slide as he chambers shotgun shell after shotgun shell makes you drool. You have to remember to close your mouth. When he cocks it back and forth the sound goes straight to your pussy. He has let you hold the gun, has taught you how to shoot it, how to load it for fun, and it damn near takes all of your strength to pull the slide back and then forward again. When he does it as quickly as he does…his arm strength shows and you clench. 

How he gave you technical directions when showing you how to shoot his pistol made you sweat. First, his whole body was pressed against your back as his long arms reached around you to hold the gun over your hands. Your hands disappeared under his, but he was so gentle. Second, even with the ear muffs his husky voice was right in your ear, his breaths falling along your neck and shoulder, as he directed your every move. Helping you to pull the slide back and lock it he walked you through inserting the magazine until it seated, sexual. Then he told you to pull the slide release lever down with your thumb, but you couldn’t reach and he giggled when you had to use your support hand to do it, the sound moving you against him as his shoulders bounced. Last, he instructed you to click the safety off and press the trigger, do not pull at it, be nice to it, let it surprise you, which again sounded sexual. With a “Fire away, babygirl” he let go but stayed at your back steadying you and you fired. The recoil of the handgun was violent but you held onto it and fired again. Zach only gave you two rounds so you placed it down on the shelf in front of you when you were done firing just before he turned you and lifted you into his arms.

“My girl is a helluva shot!”

You wrapped your legs around his waist as he jumped up and down with you both laughing. Everyone cheered for you and when he finally put you down after a quick kiss, you were blushing. That was a fun day.

Now you sit, staring disrespectfully, as Zach loads the shotgun’s magazine tube that sits under the barrel. To ensure each shell seats inside he pushes two fingers deep into the loading hole, over and over and over again, until it is full. The loud sound of him racking the gun, chambering his first round, makes you jump out of your filthy thoughts. 

“You okay, babe?” Zach asks teasingly because he sees the way you cross your legs tighter and swallow hard when your attention is back and clear.

“Y-Yes, hmhm,” you answer with little force. 

Zach watches you fiddle with the small white cloth as you help him clean the two weapons at the end of the range time. You help with the pistol, it being smaller and easier to handle. You still gape at the way he practically throws around the hefty shotgun. You two are in the common area with tables now, away from all of the sharp sounds of the others shooting. Then he asks something that catches you so by surprise you choke on air.

“Do my guns turn you on, babygirl?”

“WHAT?! No…no, um, oh my god…”

“Shit, babe, I’m sorry I was just watching you today and like every Sunday I can’t wait to get home because it's like we are both so horny for each other, I thought it was the guns,” Zach panics and rambles reaching for your hand and you laugh. He just looks at you while you crack up at how ridiculous you are.

When you finally collect yourself you lean towards him, a little fear still in his eyes like he messed it all up, with a hand on his face to soothe him, you finally confess. “It’s not the guns, Zach, it’s how you handle the guns. Your…um, competence and confidence…I get really jealous of the guns with your strong hands all over them, bending them to your will, it’s hot…you’re hot.”

Zach closes his eyes with a low groan. You can see the obvious effect your words of praise are having on him with a glance at the growing bulge in his jeans. No time like the present to tell him your other confession.

“Zach, baby,” his eyes open to meet yours darker than before, “I had this fantasy that you made me cum with the shotgun in your hands.”

“Ohmafuckingod,” Zach reaches down to forcefully shove his palm down over his growing erection. “We gotta go, let’s go, pack up, I gotta get you home before I take you over this shitty table.”

You chuckle at his frantic state and help his shaking hands put the clean, unloaded guns into his case. He pulls his truck keys out and takes your hand to pull you out of the building giving rushed goodbyes to the other regulars. 

Once the truck has started down the road Zach places his palm over your thigh, his fingers dangerously close to your trigger. “Are you sure you wanna do this baby?”

“I do. I think about it every Sunday, haha. But really only if you’re okay with it, and it's not too weird?”

“No! No, it’s not weird at all, I get it, I get half hard watching you comfortably shoot the pistol now. Please, let me make this good for you, it will be safe, it will be so hot.”

You can tell by the way he’s continuing to ramble and his white knuckle grip on the steering wheel he will love this as much as you. You’ve heard about gun and knife play but it never really made sense to you until your pussy reacted to Zach at the range. 

The ride in the elevator up to his apartment was brutal and it stopped twice for other people. He winced and you laughed when they wanted to talk to him about building things. You added to his struggle keeping your hand in his back pocket caressing his ass. Having dealt with them with expert kindness and professionalism, the gun case covering his excitement, you were bidding them a good day, alone again.

“You’re a menace.” Zach leaned over and smacked your ass making you yelp.

The burst through the front door was frenzied, your tongues licking into each other’s mouths with heavy pants, the gun case placed on the counter top, his hands squeezing your ass and your arms around his shoulders, hands in his hair. He liked when you played with and pulled his hair. Zach pulled your bottom lip between his teeth with a growl and you whimpered when he finally pulled back for air.

“Get undressed, leave only your panties on, baby girl, and I will get our toys ready.”

You couldn’t help the moan that escaped your lips when he kissed you again, Zach swallowed the sound, drinking in your want. Then he pulled away tapping you on the thigh reminding you what he wanted. You pulled your sweatshirt and tee over your head as you watched him open the gun case. His eyes flitted to your breasts when you removed your bra as he picked up the empty pistol and shotgun. Zach double checked they were both unloaded and clear, when he looked at you, you nodded in confirmation. 

He rested the long shotgun over his shoulder, held the pistol in his left hand, and walked right past you as you peeled off your leggings and shoes to chase after him. The smirk he gave you over his shoulder nearly killed you. Zach could be so soft and then he could be this wall of controlled confidence. You loved that you get both all the time. Then he turned and sat down on the couch laying the shotgun across his lap. The pistol was set off to the side;  you guess he wants to start big.

“Come here, beautiful.”

You realized you were frozen again, staring, when he reached his hands out for you to stand between his open thighs. Zach places his hands on your hips, his thumbs brushing back and forth over your curves when he presses his lips to your stomach, licking and kissing out towards each of your hips as he squeezes you in his strong hands. You let out a breathy sigh and tilt your head back basking in his attention. You don’t realize when his hands leave you, you are so caught up in his mouth with your hands in his hair. Then…

CRACK CRACK

You jump with a squeal when Zach racks the shotgun back and forth on his lap. Your wild eyes find his, lust blown with excitement, and then focus on the large gun in his capable hands. The whine that escapes your parted lips is pathetic. Zach coos at you that it’s okay with a soft hand along your bare thigh, goosebumps taking over your body with anticipation when he urges you to open your legs a little wider. You don’t realize you are shaking until he takes your hand.

“Baby girl, look at me, is this still okay?”

“Yes, I’m just too excited I guess, is–is this still okay for you?”

“Hell yes,” he pulls your hands down to press over the crotch of his jeans where he’s practically throbbing to be set free, “feel how hard you’re making me baby, your want and trust in me is driving me crazy!” You gasp as he starts to move your interlaced hands over his length then he pulls away when he starts to roll his hips up. “Let me fulfill your fantasy, baby.”

As you lean back up above him, Zach points the end of the shotgun barrel at the floor between your feet. You place your hands on his shoulders to steady yourself when he begins to slide the chilling metal of the barrel up the inside of your right leg. Both of your breathing gets heavier the closer he gets to the top. Then, he presses the cool barrel forcefully to your core over your underwear and you whail. The firm pressure and thickness is incredible as you finally feel how wet you are when your panties stick to your center. The shotgun is so long, half of it sticks out behind you between your legs, the thought of Zach reaching around and picking you up by the gun infiltrates your brain and your breath hitches. His next move surprises you more though.

“Close your legs.”

Shocked, you look down at him and do as he says. His gaze is focused on the barrel between your thighs. The friction changes as he rests the shotgun in his right arm reaching to place his left hand on your hip. 

Then, Zach pushes and pulls the barrel along your cunt and you scream his name. The cold metal a solid edge causing more arousal to leak from you, making the ride slick. You’re a complete mess in front of him as you start to move your hips a little in time with his rhythm. The sounds you’re making as you ride his shotgun at eye level make him weak. His control falters when he can’t help but touch himself again over his jeans. His moan pulls your eyes open to watch his desperateness and you become so close to cumming all over his shotgun. 

Zach sees your gaze flick to the pistol on the couch and then back to him. 

You need more.

He stops stroking himself, never losing his rhythm between your legs, to pick up the pistol. Now he is holding both weapons below you and you can’t think straight. Zach starts at the outside of your thigh to spread the cold metal sensation all over your body as you ride his shotgun. Across your stomach, flat under the weight of your breasts, to each nipple to bring them to hardened peaks before his eyes, and then down your arm. You know the gun is safe and empty but he still maintains safe trigger control and his competence showing takes you closer to your release. 

You are right on the edge, grinding your swollen clit just right along the slick barrel, when Zach puts the pistol in your hand. He looks up at your heavy eyelids as he finally removes his gray t-shirt revealing his freckled skin. 

“Do me, baby, I want to feel what you feel.”

The needy way he husks it out has you dumbfounded and he takes your hand with the gun to drag it along his collar bone. Zach moans at the cold bite of the pistol as he lets go of your hand to start your own path. He puts both of his hands on the shotgun to increase the pressure and help push you over the edge. When you bring the pistol barrel to his nipple he whines and the sound shoots straight to your lower belly beckoning your orgasm. You shatter with trembling legs all over the barrel of the long gun chanting his name. 

The shotgun is pulled from between your thighs when you swat at it to give your clit a break, the metal is a harsh feeling after a strong orgasm. With the shotgun back across his lap Zach pulls your ruined panties down your legs and they fall at your feet. You watch closely as Zach inspects your mark on the gun, the barrel slick and shiny with your cum. Your knees give out and you fall to the carpet in front of Zach when he licks a long stripe to taste you on his shotgun.

You put the worry in his eyes at ease when you start your journey along his body with the pistol again. Just as he did to you but you map the expanse of him by following his freckles over to each nipple then down his tummy to the dusting of hair above his jeans. It’s easy to see Zach’s control is slipping when he places the shotgun to the side with shaking hands. His breathing erratic when you begin to pull his jeans and briefs down his thighs and off of him completely.

Zach is so turned on it almost looks like it hurts so you want to give him some relief. His cock leaking against the soft swell of his stomach. He deserves it. 

With your free hand you push him lightly to lay back on the couch. The sigh of relief he exhales is cut short when you drag the cool metal handgun up the inside of his thigh. You rest your hand over his hip when he starts to thrust shallowly. The pistol reaches the top of his plush inner thigh and he groans, he has no idea what's coming but you’re on your knees before him flush and beautiful, then you point the barrel down towards the couch under him and press the top of the pistol against his balls.

Zach cries your name and throws his head back as his hands claw at the couch.

“I’ve got you, babe.” You assure him and he brings his head forward to watch you intently.

You lift his cock up to compare it to the gun in your hand. Zach is longer and thicker than his very large handgun, more of your slick gathering along your thighs learning this information. You lean forward and tease him for only a second when you lick up the side of the pistol, the metal tastes sharp on your tongue. When you reach the top you shift and quickly descend on his length, your warm, wet mouth taking him all the way until his curls tickle your nose.

Zach writhes seated above you babbling a string of curses and your name as you bob up and down on him, hollowing your cheeks to suck him hard. His hands are in your hair to steady himself and when you feel that he is close he lifts your lips off of him.

“Get up here.” He growls pulling you up by your waist.

You fling your arms around his shoulders, gun still in your hand resting on the back of the couch, as he lines his cock up to your entrance and fills you completely with one steady thrust. He’s so big he usually has to open you up before giving you his cock but you were so wet from all the teasing and danger he slid right in, hitting the deepest part of you. He immediately holds you down to his hips by your waist as he fucks up into you hard and fast.

“Oh my god, Zach!”

“That’s right, baby, scream my name. Tell the whole building you’re mine. Fuck…you’re always so tight!”

You’re just bouncing up and down on his cock trying to hold on, when you can’t grasp his shoulder like you want to with the gun he takes it from you.

“Come on, baby, cum on my cock, squeeze me and make me cum with you. I'm so close.”

Zach begs for your release and enforces it when he pushes the thick grip of the pistol into your clit. His hand is covering the whole gun with the barrel angled away to get better leverage over the grip making overwhelming circles. It doesn’t take long before you're pulling his hair with a shout as your second orgasm crashes through you. You feel like a live wire, feeling the electricity fizzle out at the tips of your fingers and toes. You have no more rounds after that one.  When you come back down, you realize Zach threw the handgun onto the floor and he is bringing your body as close to his as he can to chase his own release. 

He thrusts up into you with his arms tight around you and he starts to mumble into your neck. “I love you, I love you, oh fuck, I love you so much.”

You pull his face from your shoulder and it dawns on him that you could hear him. You kiss him desperately whispering I love you, I love you too into his plush lips. After a few more deep thrusts he stills and comes hard inside of you with a silent cry. You feel his furrowed eyebrows against your temple as he lazily grinds through his orgasm. 

Spent, Zach leans you both back against the couch to slump together in a sweaty, smiling mess.

“Do you mean it?”

He whispers it into the open space like he didn’t want you to hear his insecurity.

You push yourself up to sit on his lap, his softening length still nestled inside of you, it’s intimate when you hold his cheeks to assure him. 

“I love you, Zach, I have for a long while now.”

He smiles up at you with so much adoration. “Me too.”

When you kiss this time it’s a promise. I promise to care for you. I promise to be there for you. I promise to protect you. I promise to help fight your demons.

+++++

A/N: No regular taglist for kinktober but I will tag my beautiful beta @lowlights, @littlemisspascal, and @absurdthirst for the inspo. Thanks for reading loves!

Next: Hypnosis/Monster Fucking with Max Phillips

[nasa]

NASA Spotlight: Astronaut Mike Hopkins

Michael S. Hopkins was selected by NASA as an astronaut in 2009. The Missouri native is currently the Crew-1 mission commander for NASA’s next SpaceX launch to the International Space Station on Nov. 14, 2020. Hopkin’s Crew-1 mission will mark the first-ever crew rotation flight of a U.S. commercial spacecraft with astronauts on board, and it secures the U.S.’s ability to launch humans into space from American soil once again.  Previously, Hopkins was member of the Expedition 37/38 crew and has logged 166 days in space. During his stay aboard the station, he conducted two spacewalks totaling 12 hours and 58 minutes to change out a degraded pump module. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Illinois and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. 

He took some time from being a NASA astronaut to answer questions about his life and career! Enjoy:

What do you hope people think about when you launch?

I hope people are thinking about the fact that we’re starting a new era in human spaceflight. We’re re-opening human launch capability to U.S. soil again, but it’s not just that. We’re opening low-Earth orbit and the International Space Station with commercial companies. It’s a lot different than what we’ve done in the past. I hope people realize this isn’t just another launch – this is something a lot bigger. Hopefully it’s setting the stage, one of those first steps to getting us to the Moon and on to Mars.

You served in the U.S. Air Force as a flight test engineer. What does that entail?

First off, just like being an astronaut, it involves a lot of training when you first get started. I went to the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and spent a year in training and just learning how to be a flight test engineer. It was one of the most challenging years I’ve ever had, but also one of the more rewarding years. What it means afterwards is, you are basically testing new vehicles or new systems that are going on aircraft. You are testing them before they get handed over to the operational fleet and squadrons. You want to make sure that these capabilities are safe, and that they meet requirements. As a flight test engineer, I would help design the test. I would then get the opportunity to go and fly and execute the test and collect the data, then do the analysis, then write the final reports and give those conclusions on whether this particular vehicle or system was ready to go.

What is one piece of life advice you wish somebody had told you when you were younger? 

A common theme for me is to just have patience. Enjoy the ride along the way. I think I tend to be pretty high intensity on things and looking back, I think things happen when they’re supposed to happen, and sometimes that doesn’t necessarily agree with when you think it should happen. So for me, someone saying, “Just be patient Mike, it’s all going to happen when it’s supposed to,” would be really good advice.

Is there a particular science experiment you enjoyed working on the most while aboard the space station?

There’s a lot of experiments I had the opportunity to participate in, but the ones in particular I liked were ones where I got to interact directly with the folks that designed the experiment. One thing I enjoyed was a fluid experiment called Capillary Flow Experiment, or CFE. I got to work directly with the principal investigators on the ground as I executed that experiment. What made it nice was getting to hear their excitement as you were letting them know what was happening in real time and getting to hear their voices as they got excited about the results. It’s just a lot of fun.

Space is a risky business. Why do it?

I think most of us when we think about whatever it is we do, we don’t think of it in those terms. Space is risky, yes, but there’s a lot of other risky jobs out there. Whether it’s in the military, farming, jobs that involve heavy machinery or dangerous equipment… there’s all kinds of jobs that entail risk. Why do it? You do it because it appeals to you. You do it because it’s what gets you excited. It just feels right. We all have to go through a point in our lives where we figure out what we want to do and what we want to be. Sometimes we have to make decisions based on factors that maybe wouldn’t lead you down that choice if you had everything that you wanted, but in this particular case for me, it’s exactly where I want to be. From a risk standpoint, I don’t think of it in those terms.

Can you describe your crew mate Soichi Noguchi in one sentence?

There are many facets to Soichi Noguchi. I’m thinking about the movie Shrek. He has many layers! He’s very talented. He’s very well-thought. He’s very funny. He’s very caring. He’s very sensitive to other people’s needs and desires. He’s a dedicated family man. I could go on and on and on… so maybe like an onion – full of layers!

Star Trek or Star Wars?

I love them both. But can I say Firefly? There’s a TV series out there called Firefly. It lasted one season – kind of a space cowboy-type show. They did have a movie, Serenity, that was made as well. But anyway, I love both Star Wars and Star Trek. We’ve really enjoyed The Mandalorian. I mean who doesn’t love Baby Yoda right? It’s all fun.

How many times did you apply to be an astronaut? Did you learn anything on your last attempt? 

I tried four times over the course of 13 years. My first three attempts, I didn’t even have references checked or interviews or anything. Remember what we talked about earlier, about patience? For my fourth attempt, the fact is, it happened when it was supposed to happen. I didn’t realize it at the time. I would have loved to have been picked on my first attempt like anybody would think, but at the same time, because I didn’t get picked right away, my family had some amazing experiences throughout my Air Force career. That includes living in Canada, living overseas in Italy, and having an opportunity to work at the Pentagon. All of those helped shape me and grow my experience in ways that I think helped me be a better astronaut.

Can you share your favorite photo or video that you took in space?

One of my favorite pictures was a picture inside the station at night when all of the lights were out. You can see the glow of all of the little LEDs and computers and things that stay on even when you turn off the overhead lights. You see this glow on station. It’s really one of my favorite times because the picture doesn’t capture it all. I wish you could hear it as well. I like to think of the station in some sense as being alive. It’s at that time of night when everybody else is in their crew quarters in bed and the lights are out that you feel it. You feel the rhythm, you feel the heartbeat of the station, you see it in the glow of those lights – that heartbeat is what’s keeping you alive while you’re up there. That picture goes a small way of trying to capture that, but I think it’s a special time from up there.

What personal items did you decide to pack for launch and why? 

My wedding bands. I’m also taking up pilot wings for my son. He wants to be a pilot so if he succeeds with that, I’ll be able to give him his pilot wings. Last time, I took one of the Purple Hearts of a very close friend. He was a Marine in World War II who earned it after his service in the Pacific.

Thank you for your time, Mike, and good luck on your historic mission! Get to know a bit more about Mike and his Crew-1 crew mates Victor Glover, Soichi Noguchi, and Shannon Walker in the video above.

Watch LIVE launch coverage beginning at 3:30 p.m. EST on Nov. 14 HERE. 

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