#If there's one thing Julie doesn't need to have her hands on it's fireworks

[fadedrainbowbookshelves]

"Fraaank are you going to help me figure out where Howdy moved the fireworks to or not?"

"Try not. If I were Howdy, I wouldn't have even allowed you in the door after last week!"

[zevveli]

There exists a theory that says that every work of fiction is something that actually happened in another reality, and that those events just come through to people in our reality as creative concepts. And that the same happens the other way so in some other reality there are works of fiction based on things that happen to us. If that's true, than I think I was a supporting character in a sitcom, because that's the only way I can explain the running gag that happened to me a few years back.

At the time I was working as a pharmacy technician for a 24-hour pharmacy. Which meant that when the holidays came around, we stayed open. One year, people kept repeatedly asking me why it is that we were going to be open on Thanksgiving, and I was getting tired of it. Finally, having had enough as it was towards the end of my shift, when an old woman angrily sneered "I don't understand why you all will be open on Thanksgiving!" I rolled my eyes and shot back with the following:

"Well ma'am, because when your husband accidentally sets himself on fire trying to deep-fry the turkey, someone has to be open to dispense the burn cream, gauze and antibiotics when he gets out of the ER."

There was a moment of silence as I realized what I had just said and was prepared for an angry retort. But the woman sighed and replied with "Yeah...that does sound like something he would do..." and finished the transaction and walked away.

Flash forward to the following month. I have a bit of a line, and the woman I'm serving scoffs at me. "Why are you all going to be open on Christmas?"

By now I have decided to joke around with the patients with holiday specific injuries, so I respond. "Well ma'am, because someone has to be open to sell gauze and neosporin to all the dads who slice their hands open trying to get their kids' new toys out of the clamshell packaging."

Her husband snapped his fingers and shouted "Gauze! I KNEW I forgot something!" And he stepped out of line towards the first-aid aisle, swiftly followed by three other men who had overheard the conversation and realized that, yeah actually that probably would be a good idea.

Flash forward a few more months:

"Why will you be open on Memorial Day?" A man asks.

"Because when the kids are playing football and run into the grill knocking it over and falling face first into the coals, someone has to dispense the ointments and facial bandages." I reply.

"Ooooh, yeah. That happened to my brother when we were kids, that's why I make my kids play in the front yard while I'm grilling in the back."

The next month:

"Why will you be open on the 4th of July?"

"Because someone has to dispense pain medications for all the people who blow their hand up with fireworks."

"Oh yeah, I did that when I was younger...it's not fun."

Okay clearly I need to go WAY over the top next time. So later in the day:

"Why will you be open on July 4th?"

"Because when your Uncle Jack gets drunk and shoves a lit roman candle down the front of his pants so it looks like he's shooting fire out of his crotch someone has to be open to give him an eyepatch and eyedrops so he doesn't go permanently blind."

"BWAHAHAHA! YOU GUYS ARE NEVER GOING TO LET HIM LIVE THAT DOWN! How long have you and Jack known each other?"

"Sir I was just pulling random names out of a hat for an over the top scenario to get a laugh..."

But by far the one that absolutely cinched it was this. A woman comes in at the end of August with her child and demands to know:

"Why are you all going to be open on Labor Day?"

WHO THE FUCK CARES ABOUT LABOR DAY? Now at the time, the local schools started the day after Labor Day due to lobbying in the 1970's by the amusement park industry. So I roll my eyes and sarcastically reply:

"Because when your son decides to send the summer off by jumping his bike off a homemade ramp into oncoming traffic and breaking his arm, someone has to be open to give you the pain medication from the ER."

The woman rears back taking a deep breath to start yelling at me. Finally, I think, a reasonable reaction! But before she can say anything her son puts his hands on his hips, leans forward, and indignantly shouts:

"That! Only! Happened! Twice!"

Both his mother and I stare at him for a moment, before she replies:

"And you are getting ready to enter the third grade." She turns and smiles at me, "I guess that means we'll see you on Monday, have a wonderful weekend."

[seas1mping]

Small comfort fic for my friend @sweetpayaso <3 love you big bro /p

Reena & Cade Bellamy Grossman | Cake Topper [PLATONIC], referenced Reena/LJ and Sweet Tooth CT/LJ

Umm I'm going to be using the boys from the previous one shot I wrote (Seth, Roman, and Randy) but they're only mentioned. Also Cake is in his normal human clothing, not the clown outfit!! :)

I wrote this watching fireworks for 4th of July I LOVE FIREWORKS RAAGGGHHHHH and then getting sick right after boowomp

----

Cake Topper didn't really know how long he'd been out there. They know when they got out there, the sun was at least partway up still. But the sun was almost under the treeline now. The door to the balcony creaked open, and Cake turned around.

Ducking under the doorframe, she brought out a plate of food, gesturing towards her friend. "Hey, Cake. You'd been out here for a minute so I just wanted to bring you some food in case you were hungry. I know meal time can be a lot with the boys, but we're all done now!"

He nodded, then shook his head. "Thank you, Reena, but I'm not very hungry right now." A lie, they were starving and that food looked good, but they had no interest in eating right now. Not with their mind where it was then.

She shrugs and sets it on the table set next to the door. Reena doesn't go back inside though, she goes up to Cake and puts a hand on their back before leaning over the balcony and watching the world with them.

"My hair is getting too long, I need to cut it soon. Randall has, like, an irrational fear of it." She laughs softly, tugging at the part of her hair that falls over her shoulder. Cake makes a questioning hum, tilting his head. "Oh, yeah, Randy hates my long hair. I think the little guy thinks it's gonna swallow him or something. It's kind of funny to watch."

Cake lets out a snickering sound in response, but it doesn't last long, getting distracted by his headspace again. "Reena, can I ask you something?"

She nods in response, looking over towards him. He looks at her with his brown eyes meeting her clashing ones. "Do you ever get that feeling that you just...don't like yourself?"

"Well I just mentioned my hair, so-"

"That's not what I mean."

Reena blinks, she can't remember if Cake has ever outright interrupted her before, usually changing a subject is common, but flat out stopping her is..not a thing.

She sighs, watching some construction happen off of the hill the house was on. "Yeah, actually. Here."

She points at her right arm, the amalgamation of Down Belowian on her otherwise human form is quite the looker. Jagged spikes up and down it, long, rough fingers. She points to the lighter lines carved into it on her hand.

"My best, best friends, who I grew up with in the palace, didn't have the same mutation that I did. My older brother was completely normal, and my little sister looks exactly like my dad. But I got stuck with this eyesore of an arm."

She flips her arm over, it's smoother on this side, but there are still tiny bumps on it.

"I hated my arm for most of my childhood. A constant reminder that I wasn't exactly 'normal'. I wore gloves, but they always ripped on the edges. I tried to wear long sleeves, but I would just get them caught on stuff. My arm was one of my biggest insecurities."

She looks back at Cake Topper. "But, you know what I did about it?"

He swallows thickly. "What?"

"I changed it. What was an insecurity to me, was a wonder for others. I had my friends draw out ideas for the etches I was going to have. Think of it like a tattoo, but you have to carve it on this stuff. Most of the etches on my hand are from the both of them. Except for...this one."

She points to the one on the inside of her arm, a mass of scratches and scribbles.

"It's my daughter Nari's name in my native language. You may have seen her before, she works at the carnival. She has the mutation I have, but on both arms!"

Cake recalls seeing a girl that fits the description somewhere, but he can't place it.

"Anyways, the moral of the story, I think. Is that no matter what you have, mutation, weird family, maybe something you have doesn't work right. You could always change it. And if you can't change it, try to make it look prettier, or at least bearable to see."

She then winks at him and laughs "But, to me, I don't see anything wrong with you, Cake Topper. I think you look just like you ought to. Jack seems to like looking at you, anyway."

Cake Topper looks away with pink cheeks. But he nods brokenly. "Uh! Yeah, thank you."

She bends down to him, which is a lot because he's like 3 feet shorter, but she looks at him at eye level and gives him a big smile.

"And if you need anything at all, please know that I am here, and Jack is here, and I would do anything to see that you are alive, safe, and well. Do I make myself clear."

Cake sniffles, they hadn't noticed they were crying when she finished, but they wiped their eyes and gave Reena a big smile. "Crystal."

She nods, using Cake a bit to push back up to her full height. "Now, come back inside, I bought brownie mix and I need help cracking the eggs. My claws end up puncturing them and getting shells everywhere, you know?"

Cake laughs, they've definitely had crunchy cake before, and knew that was probably what that was. "Yeah."

[eskawrites]

6 😈

6. "Don't touch me."

It's only after everything that Nancy starts to feel exhausted.

She's a sweaty mess--from the adrenaline, from the running around and lighting fireworks, from the thick, humid heat that lingers in the July air even so long after sunset. And she's sore like a motherfucker, all the aches and bruises of being thrown around that hospital room finally settling deep into her bones now that the danger has, supposedly, passed.

But she is, for the most part, unharmed. They all are, despite the way Max and El are crying into each other's shoulders still, or the way Steve's face is hidden by blood and bruises.

Or the way Robin Buckley keeps flinching away from anyone who steps too close.

Nancy watches from across the parking lot as yet another EMT walks around to where Robin is sitting in the back of an ambulance. She's hunched in on herself, knuckles white around the blanket she clutches around her shoulders. She doesn't look as the EMT approaches, but she does stiffen.

"Where's Steve?" Nancy asks. She's not really sure if she's asking or just talking out loud, but Jonathan is the only one close enough to hear. He frowns a little at her.

"Sitting with Dustin, last I saw. Why?"

The EMT steps into Robin's space. He's saying something, but Robin just keeps glaring ahead, not reacting. Nancy pushes to her feet.

"Nance?" Jonathan murmurs behind her. Nancy ignores him and starts making her way across the parking lot.

She holds her breath as she watches the EMT reach out. Robin jerks away from his touch, face screwed up and elbows flailing. She catches him in the ribs, and he grabs her arm to still her.

Nancy is close enough now to hear Robin's sharp gasp, and then the whine that pulls, tight and reluctant, from her throat.

"Hey," Nancy says as she walks up, and her voice is tight, too, tense and sharp--not at all the calm, commanding demeanor she's been trying so hard to show all night. Robin freezes, eyes still closed, arm still held by the EMT. He glances at Nancy, who scowls pointedly at the hand holding Robin. Only then does he let go.

"Miss Buckley," he says, not even trying to hide his impatience, "we need to look at you. Your friend Steve said--"

"Steve was hurt worse," Robin mumbles. "I'm fine."

"The drugs are still in your system. We need to make sure--"

"I'm fine."

The EMT looks helplessly at Nancy. For a moment, she just keeps scowling at him--because really, what is she supposed to do?

But then, she had come over here, hadn't she? And what's the point if she's just going to walk away again?

So she sighs and nods a little. The EMT gives her a relieved look as he walks away again.

Nancy glances at Robin, who has at least opened her eyes again, even if she is glaring at Nancy.

"Robin--"

"Don't," Robin snaps. "Just don't, okay? I said I'm fine. I don't need you to--to check up on me, or whatever."

"You're not fine," says Nancy. "You just spent the night in a bunker being interrogated by the Russian military. Steve told us you guys were drugged. And that's not even getting into the whole 'monsters are real and they live in Hawkins' thing. No one would be fine after what you've been through."

Robin hesitates. She doesn't soften, but her lip trembles just slightly. She takes a soft, shaky breath, then sets her jaw and scowls at Nancy again.

"I don't need your help, Wheeler."

Nancy crosses her arms over her chest. "Will you just let someone check you out?"

"No."

"Look, I can go get Steve if--"

"I said no."

"But if you're hurt--"

"I'm not."

"Just--" Nancy reaches out instinctively. Robin swats her hand away.

"Don't touch me," she snarls, but there are tears in her eyes. She's pale, Nancy realizes. Really, really pale.

"I'm sorry," Nancy whispers. "I shouldn't have--I just want to help, Robin."

"Just--don't touch me." Robin closes her eyes, and Nancy sees a tear roll down her cheek. She breathes out and adds, hoarsely, "Please."

"Okay." Nancy says softly. She hesitates, then hops up into the truck to sit beside Robin. "Okay. Whatever you need."

Robin shakes her head. "I don't--I'm not--I am fine." She winces a little. "As fine as I can be."

"You should still let them look at you. The drugs--"

"But that's just it," breathes Robin. "The drugs. Those men. The way they dragged me and Steve around. Tied us up. Hit us. I just--I--I can't--I need--"

She cuts off, and Nancy has to squeeze her hands into fists to keep herself from reaching out for her again.

She thinks about the mindflayer, about the hospital room, about being pinned to the floor, certain she was going to die and unable to do anything but watch and wait for it. She imagines being stuck there for hours. She imagines doing it all while having no idea what's going on.

Suddenly, she's amazed Robin is even coherent at all.

"What can I do?" she asks.

For a moment, Robin doesn't do anything. But then she looks over at Nancy.

"And don't just say you're fine," Nancy adds. Robin's lips quirk up into a weak smile.

"I don't know," she says. "I don't--I mean, what the hell happens next? What am I even supposed to do?"

Nancy sighs and looks back out across the parking lot. That's always the question, isn't it? Her eyes catch another one of the EMTs moving from truck to truck, and she decides that's really the best answer she can give right now.

"I hear a doctor helps," she says, hoping the dryness in her tone sounds more sarcastic than mean. Robin sighs, but the tremor in her breath sounds more like a laugh than a sob. Nancy will take it.

"No needles," Robin says.

Nancy nods. "Fair enough."

Robin looks at her nervously, then, "...will you stay?"

Slowly, Nancy holds her hand out, palm up. Robin glances at it, then up at her. Then, fingers shaking, she reaches out and grabs Nancy's hand.

"Okay," she whispers. She swallows hard, but then she nods, looking a little more confident. "Okay."

Nancy squeezes her hand, then looks up and waves an EMT over.

[yifftwiceplz]

big d striders big blowup barbeque

what: food fireworks beer and socializing byow where: my backyard when: all day july 4th but i dont get up til 10am who: you why: free food and explosions

im bad at writing these but its what it says on the tin im gonna grill and blow things up if youre interested let me know

you dont have to bring anything but youre welcome to

the pool and hot tub are open for use but like dont be a fucking dickhead in there use your brain dont just dump trash or food or drinks in there

i have to deal with the hoa so try not to get into any fights or screaming matches i will straight up send you home dont care

ooc info: totally assumed interaction, ask dave IC for an invite if you dont get one / your character isnt a +1

their backyard is pretty big / private with a pool, patio, fire pit, etc. there will be your average bbq options + chips and snacks, as well as ice coolers filled with soda and drinkies therell be music outside and some kind of TV / gaming inside

theres only a couple of guest rooms so around 11pm karkats gonna start glaring at everyone menacingly

dave: grilling with a beer in one hand and a joint hanging off his lips. tank top, basketball shorts, sandals. he's overall in good spirits / not too shy since it's home turf. if you irritate him he will get you with the tongs

karkat: doing food prep and making sides inside, making lemonade and tea, etc. hes as sociable as karkat gets

dirk: helping set up fireworks, otherwise he's attached to biojohn at the hip, but still sociable enough

bstri: in charge of fireworks / gonna be the one lighting them off. cigarette in his mouth the entire time he's working on them. waves off criticism. doesn't go out of his way to socialize, but doesn't avoid anyone either. mostly talks to dave and rose

rose: either floating around tiredly, or resting in a particularly comfy outside chair. pretty much all pillows available are forfeit to her. as it goes on she moves to the couch and then to a guest room very sociable but gets tired easy it's not uncommon to see her hanging off roxy/dirk/dave/kanaya for support as she gets tired out

kanaya: if you're a troll you get the autism interest stare like "talk to me. no i wont initiate" shes very awkward and shy but shes very funny unintentionally

roxy: VERY boisterous and social. she will say hi. she will talk to you she will ask you a billion questions until you're a little overwhelmed

jake: jake. he will get plastered and make an idiot of himself (affectionate)

jane: jane. glaring holes through sefoni, socializes mainly with jake and dirk and roxy

john: absent

jade: mostly socializing with dave karkat and jake, HIGHLY embarrassed by jake's antics. probably also glaring holes into sefoni

terezi: absent

ult dirk: wouldn't you like to know weather boy.

uhhhh idk if i need a #tag for it or anything we'll see how everyone feels closer to time

[cellard0ors]

For @falsemortal!

"What's this?" Laura holds up an old photo and Travis snatches it from her, the apples of his cheeks red, "Where did you get this?"

"...from your bag." Laura doesn't understand why he's so worked up, it's just a photo. It is, however, one of his family, so, while she technically knows what it is, she can't help but ask, because he's been oh, so careful not to mention any of them since this...thing began.

This 'thing' being them on the road, roaming from place to place, hunting the unknown, the supernatural.

It's a tenuous partnership between them, one based not so much on trust as on the loss of their previous lives. Travis couldn't go back to being a sheriff and Laura certainly couldn't go back to being a vet student.

So, here they are.

Laura doesn't mention Max. Travis doesn't mention his family. It's part of an unspoken deal. So, finding the photo was a surprise and why she asked and now he's embarrassed.

... it's -? Surprisingly a good look on him.

But his normal gruffness returns as he grumbles, "Why were you going through my-!"

"You asked me to." Her eyebrows rise high, "Remember?"

She's sure he does. He'd wanted her to find a flashlight he had - not this. Travis must have forgotten about it and Laura, while knowing she doesn't need to, offers him an out, "Look, it's none of my business-!"

"No. It's not. But when has that stopped you?" He says it not in the tone of one ready to start an argument but more...fondly.

Travis? Fond of her? Not possible. Still, the warmth of his reaction makes her blush even as he shakes his head and sighs, "It was a good day."

Laura frowns, confused, but then he clarifies himself by holding up the photo again, "The day this was taken."

He looks down at the photo, one that shows the entire Hackett clan together, smiling, happy, "It was July fourth. Couple years ago. Long before the mess with Silas."

He runs both of his thumbs along it, "Whole family was together. Had a big feast, fireworks - Caleb and Kaylee chasing one another around with water guns. Soaked Bobby a couple of times. Chris too. I avoided getting hit... narrowly."

Laura's lips twitch, fighting off a smile, because the picture he's painting is rather nice. His voice more so, soft as it is, "Even Ma was in good spirits. Didn't ride my ass, didn't make any snide off handed remarks...just kept to herself, spent time with Pop..."

Travis shakes his head, taking the photo in one hand so he can smack it on his other open palm, "It's all a lie though. A good one. But a goddamn lie "

Laura absorbs that, her face blank of expression. From what she knew of the Hackett family, that's right - the picture, the happy family facade...it was a lie. And yet...

Laura carefully takes the photo from him. He turns to her, his expression open... vulnerable. The word 'handsome' also flashes in her mind, but she rigidly ignores it as she demurs, "Maybe. But it's a nice picture. You should keep it."

Travis is flabbergasted, "Why?"

"Because..." And now Laura feels vulnerable, "Family means something to you. You-you like the idea of it. And...and even if this family, the one pictured, wasn't the way you wanted it to be, it doesn't mean that someday...someday you won't have the kind of family you do want."

She looks at the photo herself, "The kind of family that loves you."

There's a long, heavy beat of silence.

Then, in a near quiet rasp, he asks, "Do you think you'd ever want that?"

The question shocks Laura to the core.

More so when he looks at her, "A family?"

Laura looks at him and her throat feels tight, her heart thudding thickly, because if he's asking what she thinks he's asking...

Travis looks away, "Never mind, I shouldn't have ask-!"

"Yes." Laura interrupts quietly, very quietly, and his gaze swings to her quickly.

She meets it.

Laura meets his gaze and holds it as she repeats, "Yes," she edges closer to him, "I do."

They're sitting side by side, but now? Now their hands meet. One of his hand to hers. The fingers lace. It's slow, tentative, but it's a start.

[ratcatcher0325]

Dear Alexander and Natalie,

Do you have any plans for the fourth of July? I would guess that Alexander is indifferent but doesn't like the noise and Natalie is in it for the food (my spouse likes to call the fouth "summer Thanksgiving"). I am curious (and nosy!), so what's on the docket?

I for one am making ice cream and shutting the windows against the noise.

Yours,

PSM

Oh hey PSM!

Nice to see ya again! Oh! Hold on, Alexander is wrestling my fingers away from the mouse (I’m letting him win so he won’t yell at me).

Natalie, where is your common courtesy? Our friend addressed the ask to me first, then you. Have patience!!

Do you hear that? This little insufferable nightmare is lecturing me about patience! His lack of self awareness is adorable isn’t it?

Nothing about me is adorable! Now stop being such an antagonizer and let me peruse this question. Stop it! Do not cross this line. Put your hands behind you back if you must, I will not tolerate any more interruptions. The Fourth of July?? Hmm. I like your plan. Staying out of the heat, far away from drunken humans gathering in raucous crowds and the ear shattering cacophony of those utterly obnoxious fireworks would be my strong preference. However, I’m told Natalie has a, to quote her “kick ass paleta recipe you’ll love”. I’m told a paleta is a type of frozen popsicle made from fruit?

Oh, so you put me in “Ask Jail” but then you get to steal my paleta thunder? Cool. Seems fair. Yeah I was planning to wrap up five or six flavors today, so we can beat the heat for a long time to come. Normally, if I was with family we’d make a huge cookout, but I’ll probably just go with a simple arrachera and maybe some guacamole (though I’ll never get it as good as my grandma). Alexander can be my trusty taste tester. But yeah, obviously fireworks aren’t gonna hurt my ears like they would his, still they’ve never really impressed me. BUT Alexander needs the experience of lighting Roman candles and sparklers off the patio, it’s like… a right of passage. We’ll just wait till all the fireworks displays are over. Besides, I have a feeling this little nightmare will enjoy lighting shit on fire.

She keeps insisting it’s a deeply cathartic experience to watch controlled explosions. I can’t say I disagree. I will report back, posthaste. Other than that, I would be delighted to continue working, uninterrupted, but when I tell you, PSM, that becomes nearly impossible when living with someone like Natalie, I promise I’m not exaggerating. She thinks I won’t notice, but she constantly finds every excuse under the sun to pull my attention or to touch me, albeit it gently. But it is still immensely distracting. I’m going to need to employ a thumb tack or safety pin to ward her off. Do you think that’ll do the trick?

I’m gonna ignore that completely and change the subject… I hope you enjoy your ice cream! What flavors are you planning to make? You wanna send some to Cambridge? We can do a food swap!

In the same vein as Natalie, I wish you a happy holiday for… what exactly? American exceptionalism? Those of us with a fraction of intelligence obviously know such a concept to be a carefully crafted myth which is ever crumbling in the face of late-stage capitalism. It’s explicitly clear that the American dream is dead and as the wage gap yawns ever greater, we continue to fight one another and stay just distracted enough to keep from toppling the true seat of corrupted powe—

Okay….. that’s enough of that! What he’s trying to say in Alexander-speak is he hopes you enjoy your day off from work! Ha, ha. I’m sorry, I found him like this, and I haven’t been able to figure out how to turn it off, so, this is what you get.

You quite literally just said the other day one of the things you like about me is my intelligence. Make up your mind, woman!

Alright… time to go before I get lectured at for a straight hour. Thanks for reaching out and have an awesome 4th!

Love,

Alexander

(because I was addressed first, thank you very much)

&

Natalie

[wolvesbaned]

for that character prompt exercise (feel free to pick and choose lol): 7, 9, & 10 for Al; and/or 1, 3 & 8 for Lupa!

For Al I answered #7 here!

9. What is their favorite holiday? (How do they relate to their culture/outside world. Also fun is least favorite holiday.) 

Christmas!! Al loves it a lot. She likes making presents for people if possible, she loves decorating, she loved her grandmas' and mom's cooking. she gets so into the Spirit of it. She used to create drawings and comics for her mom/cousins all the time as gifts! She would spend the morning at church, then with her whole family for the day afterwards, and though there was a tinge of sadness bc of her dad's death, Christmases were always core memories for her. her first glove and bat, first bike, the pair of glasses she really wanted--her mom would always splurge to get her what she really wanted bc she loved her so much, and so along with the good times she also remembers her mom that way. None of the other monsters really like Christmas but they come around to make an effort bc they're helplessly endeared to Al :']

(here u go. mistletoe sketch <3)

least favorite holiday is halloween bc of a Certain Traumatic Event (it's a spoiler!). it didn't always used to be bc as a child she hated the how loud fireworks were on the 4th of july and that soured it for her for a long time. she would eat her consolation hot dog under the bed covers and try and read comics with a flashlight.

10. What objects do they always carry around with them? (What do they need for their normal, day-to-day routine? What does ‘normal’ even look like for them.)

Baseball bat for. a weapon djkjf. her bandana obv. a med kit for the other monsters (it has a lot of bandaids). a million crumpled lists in her pockets of things to remember (that she forgets). on a carabiner: rubber bands or hair ties, mostly there to be fidgeted with; swiss army knife; key to her mom's old house in georgia. no wallet. you don't really need an ID if you can get away with starting an interaction w/ 'Be not afraid'.

1. What is the character’s go-to drink order? (this one gets into how do they like to be publicly perceived, because there is always some level of theatricality to ordering drinks at a bar/resturant)

my girl Lupa loves beer. probablyyyy modelo. and presidente when she can get her hands on it. she doesn't really care how people perceive her taste. she can't drink it too much bc she went a little overboard in high school and so now she has just the perfect amount of high tolerance that makes her think Just One More Will be Fine (not only is this bad for her as a werewolf bc they have a generally lower alcohol tolerance but also she's a stupid sad drunk past her twenty minute fun stage. the thoughts don't stop running. oops!)

3. What was their most expensive purchase/where does their disposable income go? (Gets you thinking about socio-economic class, values, and how they spend their leisure time)

Lupa really doesn't have disposable income until her late 30s so within the story i'm telling uhhh . probably the windbreaker she wears in the third season.

OH wait i remembered. she saves up a whole summer to get herself braces as a teenager bc she was super embarrassed abt her teeth and her parents couldn't afford and also refused to help her with it. she also saves up a good amount to apply to the colleges she wants to get into. that's it's own story.

Oh and I also answered #8 here!! i really like this answer too it's v in depth

[dcviated]

@more-than-a-princess sent: Hopefully she had gotten this right. "Okay, so I have gathered the following for today," Sonia began, taking items out of various bags and boxes and placing them in front of Wylan. "American sausages, American sausage bread," she began, picking up a package of uncooked hot dogs and hot dog buns. "Why are there not the same number of sausages as there are breads for them? How odd. Oh, and apparently hamburgers are important today, so I have included those and their breads. Now, there is also ketchup, this bright yellow condiment that is apparently mustard, this bright orange sliced thing that is apparently cheese, crisps, cupcakes with red and blue frosting and toothpicks featuring the American flag, and the light American Bud lager." But that wasn't all. With a small grunt, Sonia heaved the last box onto the table and opened the lid: full of fireworks, most unlikely to be sold even in the most remote American fireworks shops. "So, I am rather puzzled: do Americans blow up this food on the Fourth of July? I believe I have all the components to American independence here but how are they enjoyed?" She just wanted to take part in celebrating some of Wylan's heritage, even if America's customs were rather confusing sometimes. At least this holiday did not require mandatory chocolate: she did not trust the Americans with that anymore, except for their delicious peanut butter chocolate confections. Those, Sonia had to admit, were brilliant.

Out of place, might be the best way to put it. Using one of the open fields around the royal palace for a small (not so) private celebration of American Excellence could be considered blasphemy at that. Wylan is dressed the part of course. Rather than his usual suit and coat that he chose to don when going around in public he's dressed to the 5s. Or the Five-Oh, as it were. Stained white tank top with torn off jeans and a belt buckle that can (and might) be used as a murder weapon. Flipflops and socks. Perfect.

About the only American thing he isn't doing is carrying. This is actually unique compared to his usual, but not out of respect for any laws. Depending on who you asked he didn't exactly have much respect for Novoselic in general, which would be wrong, because he's a puppy for the crown princess. And behind his extravagant public image he was a force for helping out education and children's issues. To say nothing to how he has the uncanny ability to keep Sonia smiling.

All this wrapped up around the small 'barbeque' he set up himself. Charcoal grill, set of cheap aluminum tools, and a wooden picnic table to eat at. Sonia may have brought some beer, but Wylan already had that ready to go if the cooler of ice and Yuengling was anything to go by. That's fine and dandy. Another step of American Excellence would be drinking more than necessary.

"Oh good, you got most everything else we needed then. Such a good helper you are." Wylan chimes happily, possessing none of the mannerisms necessary for his technical 'cosplay' of American Excellent Male #5. "You even brought fancy cups. Look at this! These fireworks! Mwahahaha." An eager rubbing of hands together as he passes by for inspection, making sure to apply a thorough smoocha to Sonia's head before sweeping in and getting things out and set up on the table. A tantalizing display if there ever was one no we're not talking about Sonia.

"Uhhh. I mean. Nobody's stopping us from blowing up the food... you even got some M80s in here, which'd do the trick. But! Plan of action is an old fashioned grill. Have I grilled before? Don't give me that look~" He dismisses her concern should there have been any. "Just because I can't cook doesn't mean I can't grill. I know what a good 'dog looks like, and the same goes for a burger. You got enough here to feed a good few people... and by my guess... yeah, about a dozen security guards are gonna flood in once we set off the fireworks. So yeah. Plenty. A dog and burg for each."

Assured nodding before he starts going about packages, ripping things open and getting everything set out. The charcoals were already white and hot and ready. So was Wylan.

Pulling out a bottle of Yuengling and swiping the bottlecap off with a sword-like swing of the spatula, Wylan holds up a hand in toast.

"Happy America Day, babe. We're gonna make this one nobody forgets." Who knows how much trouble he's about to get in? This is a little louder and more dramatic than his usual antics after all. But so long as Sonia was around... he'd have the usual line of defense. To everyone else's chagrin. After all, good chance that the parents are gonna see this particular show.

[the-stage-manager]

Gale's situation is extremely complex, and I'm really torn about it, honestly. On the one hand, I could argue that Gale did it to himself—you've got some serious balls if the literal God of Magic Herself, the Weave Personified, tells you, "Dont touch that Thing," and your response is, "Well, actually, I'm going to touch it anyway. I'm sure it'll be fine," In this way, I would argue that his condition is not comparable to chronic illness. Rather, it's more comparable to losing an arm during the Fourth of July because you decided to fuck around with the fireworks. Gale fucked around and he found out.

HOWEVER, his relationship with Mystra complicates things.

We learn from a letter found in the epilogue, that Elminster first contacted Gale when he was 8. Whether he just so happened to run into Gale, recognized his immeasurable talent and alerted Mystra, or if Mystra sent him there specifically—it doesn't matter. The point remains the same: Gale was a literal child when Mystra took interest in him and from that point on, his whole life became about magic. It was the only thing he was good for—trying to explore other talents would likely have been met with criticism. After all, he's gifted, why is he squandering his talents by focusing on other things? I imagine he was extremely lonely—all of his time was probably spent studying and learning. He was likely placed in advanced classes with students who were much older than him, further isolating him. And when he did have the chance to interact with kids his own age, they probably shunned him—that weird kid who thinks he's better than everybody else.

On the surface, Gale appears quite power hungry. After all, the reason he went after the orb was specifically to earn favor with Mystra, so that she would show him the forbidden parts of the Weave. However, I would argue that what Gale really wants isn't power, it's connection. The power imbalance between a mortal and a Goddess is immeasurable. He was never her equal, he never would be. But he hoped that if he proved himself to her, she might trust him enough to make him her equal. He sees raw power as a means to an end: the more powerful he is, the more people might need him, might want to be around him, might seek him out because he's useful.

Keeping in mind that relationships and connections are psychological needs on par with the need for safety and stability, does Gale deserve to be punished for going to such extreme lengths to get his needs met? Personally, I don't think so. Mystra had the capacity to remove the orb right then and there, but she didn't because she wanted Gale punished. She's just... Really a piece of work.

listen, i know this is 100% personal projection, i fully understand fictional characters aren't real, obviously.

but i really think the reason certain takes about gale and the orb and, to a lesser extent mystra, irritate me so much is the implication that he deserved what the orb does to him because of hubris or ambition or whatever. that mystra was this benevolent force in his life that he took for granted, and that he deserves this because he's a bad person.

and as a chronically ill person, who sees a lot of myself in gale, that like.....really sucks lol. my chronic pain is due to my unfortunate genetics, but even if it was caused by something self-inflicted, that still wouldn't mean i deserve it. i need to believe in the idea that someone doesn't deserve to pay the price for a single mistake for the rest of their life, even if that is the unfortunate reality. y'know? and to look at his situation and write him off as a bad person because of a single fuck up feels callous and wrong.

(gotta emphasize, because i know how y'all act: i am not saying you can't interpret gale differently than me. feel and think however you like. i'm not going to argue with anyone, i have no interest in discourse over this)

[doriandrifting]

Mike Talking in Code

Mike doesn't say what "that thing" is because he was planning on saying "that thing" to Will.*

Mike coded the first heart to heart and immediately used Will's advice with Will in the second heart to heart.

*Because he considered El's letter a breakup.

Analysis:

I don't think Mike is completely talking about El in these scenes. I think he is coding his feelings by using El's name again. He is thinking about the rain fight and the continuation of it at Rink o Mania. He's testing the waters with Will in the first heart to heart and it leads directly into their second one. This is why he shuts the door for privacy and opens the second heart to heart by thanking Will for making him realize he was being self-pitying. It wasn't just Will calling him out at Rink o Mania—It was Will's advice in their previous scene that gave Mike the courage to be more honest and stop feeling so sorry for himself.

Let's also think about the fact that Mike does not believe he’s going to see El anytime soon. He’s just been told it could be months, and after the last letter she sent him, he believes they are broken up. She ends the letter with “From, El” after having told Mike that ending a letter like that means you don’t love someone. Mike quite literally agrees when Will says that staring at the letter won’t change anything. Mike knows it’s over. Will does not have the context of Mike and El's argument to understand that Mike is thinking this, but it's interesting because they give Will a similar dismissive attitude regarding the letter that mimics his attitude when El broke up with Mike in S3 ("I thought it was already over.") I think this was on purpose, to contrast Mike having been "broken up with" but unlike last season, he doesn't try to fight Will on it (There's no, "It's not over. It's just a break.")

Mike's also been told by the government woman that him and Will are going to be staying together under house arrest with no contact to the outside world for months. Will has just reminded Mike of this as the scene opens. Mike is looking for reassurance that Will still wants him there and wherever he goes—that they can come back from their fight—but he codes it. After the first heart to heart, this hypothetical becomes a reality as Mike believes him and Will are going to Hawkins to fight a battle without El. And, as the agent informed him, his "friend" could be in danger because of what is going on. Therefore, none of what he says is actually about El.

Other things to note:

At the beginning of the first heart to heart scene Mike is hiding himself behind his hand from Will. Above his head is a picture of what looks like a swingset (reference to their first meeting). The next picture is of a rainbow over a train (In the rainbow room, Brenner tells El the story of Nina, and how her lover will not return, and she needs to leave the station. Mike and Will are likely leaving Hawkins together at the end of the show—boarding the metaphorical train together). The last image is an allusion to Lover's Lake (foreshadowing their direction in S5). Will is also initially standing next to a poster of fireworks (a reference to S3's 4th of July theme).

In the first heart to heart scene, Mike is worried about whether "El" still wants him around. There's a lot of reasons for this. For starters, Will didn't call Mike the "year" they were apart. And in the morning after their S4 fight, Jonathan asks if Mike and Will want to go to the movies (like they did in S3). If you watch closely, you'll see that Mike freezes in that scene, waiting for Will's answer. Will immediately rejects the idea of them going to the movies together. Jonathan calls them mopey--the same language Mike used against Will at Rink o Mania. Mike storms off to finally talk to El, because he feels rejected by Will.

The "stupid" reference comes up in both heart to heart scenes in S4. Mike and Will likely have had silly fights in the past, but in S3 they had a "stupid" fight. Will called El a "stupid girl". Mike said, "El's not stupid." Which is true, because "only love makes you that crazy and that stupid.”Will was the one who believed he was "stupid" after their fight in S3.

In the second scene, Mike admits that he's been a "self-pitying idiot." Unbeknownst to Will, Mike projected in the rain fight about not liking girls/believing dating girls is just a part of growing up. He also projected his feelings again at the roller rink with his interpretation of "And us?" and him getting defensive with "We're friends. We're friends." Mike is feeling like an idiot—He's felt "stupid" since their fight too. So if Will is aware...

All of this points to the fact that Mike is also aware of his own feelings. The first heart to heart gives him enough hope that he wants to say "that thing"—the same way the second heart to heart gives Will enough hope to grab the painting (even if he wasn't initially planning a confession with it). But Mike is consistently interrupted by someone or something—Jonathan, the shoot out, and Argyle—when he's on the verge of breaking the code.

[auveriablue]

Retirement Bod (Chubby/Dadbod Leon Scott Kennedy Headcanons)

- After the world gets a little less fucked and he starts getting called on fewer missions and assignments, Leon just decides to call it quits.

- He's dedicated his entire life to fighting insane bioterrorism and he isn't getting any younger, so he turns in his gun and goes to live in a secluded villa somewhere.

- He finds out quickly that there isn't really shit to do in retirement and has a shit ton of free time on his hands. So he takes on cooking and baking.

- Just one problem though. The recipes Leon finds and cooks are meals made for families of at least 3. It's just him.

- He doesn't want anything to go to waste though and instead of just calling someone over to eat with or learning how to make smaller meals, he eats it all himself.

- It's just "Shit, I've made a whole family sized lasagna. Oh well." And just turns on a movie while eating the lasagna. By the time the credits roll, every trace is that lasagna is gone, even the burnt cheese at the ends.

- And because he's not on the field anymore, he doesn't have anything to help him keep himself spry and overly fit and he doesn't see the point in keeping up with his whole work out routine

- Mix that with the fact that he's 45 and doesn't have his 21 year old metabolism anymore, he packs on the pounds rather quickly.

- It starts at his stomach, then his chest, then his hips. And boy oh boy does it go to his ass.

- He doesn't even notice it at first, even when his jeans become tight and he struggles with the button. He doesn't even notice that his shirt rises up over his belly when he stretches.

- He finally notices when he bends down to pick up something and his clothes bursts like fireworks on the 4th if july. His pants split at the rear, his button ricochets off of a wall and a few fly off of his flannel too.

- And you know what ? He just shrugs it off and orders a new wardrobe online and sizes up. There are some times when he'll see a picture of his younger self and go "Wow look at me, I pulled so many women back then." And wonders if he could still do so now and sometimes pouts about him not being the slim fuckboy he was back then, but eventually stops caring.

- He still pulls women though. He still has his charm and charisma and whenever he goes grocery shopping in the nearby town, the women fawn over him because he's just so charming and they like his butt. He's gotten whistled at a few times because of his bubble butt.

- They towns women try to woo him by making him meals and desserts. Which, you guessed, only increased his weight. But he's a charming, single, man with a handsome face and a fat ass, and he can also cook, they're gonna try their darndest to seduce this man.

- After a year on retirement, he's at least 260-265, probably more, he stopped checking the scale a month ago.

- If someone like Chris or Claire or just whoever, comes knocking at his door with a whole "A new bioterrorism threat has started that can end the world, we need your help Leon, only someone with your expertise and experience can help us." speech prepared, they're gonna forget it as soon as the door opens and the first thing they see is Leon's gut.

- But it's their fault. A whole year goes by and they only check on the man when they need him to do something for them ?

- Chris would immediately go on a "How could you let yourself go like this ?" tirade, while Leon just stares at him blankly. He might even shut the door if Chris gets a little too mean with his tirade because he's not going to be insulted in his own home.

- Claire would just go "woah" and would try to beat around the bush and would try not to outright call Leon fat but Leon would just be like "It's okay, I know I got fat, no need to tiptoe around it."

- If Ada got a look at him, her eyes would be a little too fixtated on his ass and would totally blank out on whatever sly remarks or teasing comments she was going to say.

- If he does decide to come out of retirement to help, some cocky, young, new soldiers who've heard rumors of all of accomplishments, would definitely not believe that he's THE Leon Scott Kennedy.

- "This whale is the legendary Leon Scott Kennedy ?"

- "The only thing that fatass is taking down, is the local buffet."

- "Is this some sort of joke ?"

- Only to shut the fuck up when Leon proves that he's still got it. Despite not exercising for a year and eating whatever he wants, he's still pretty light and quick on his feet and he's still good with a gun. He's what you would call "Acrofatic".

- When the task is complete, he'll be begged to come back to the field but he'd decline. He likes his new life but they can call him whenever there's another big threat and he'll be willing to lend a hand. But for now, he's gonna go home, drink a beer, eat some cookies and take a nap.

[sillyrabbit81]

So with today being 4th of July, I've been thinking about those people and animals who don't enjoy fireworks displays. I wonder whether or not Sy likes fireworks. I would imagine he doesn't, like many others who have experienced combat. If you have an opportunity, could you write something about that-- maybe about how his S.O. helps him manage being anywhere near fireworks? Thank you!

Hi @my-muse-compels-me

Thanks for the request, I know it’s really short but I’m not American and really don’t know much about what happens on Independence Day. I kind of treated it like Australia Day and assumed similar things happen. Since it was time of year specific I wanted to try and get it done quickly. I guess what I’m saying is I tried and I hope I didn’t disappoint!

Summary: Sy doesn’t like fireworks, but can he work on that for the sake of his family?

Pairing: Captain Syverson x Female Reader

Word Count approx. 600

Warnings: Mostly fluff, some angst, mention of war and mental illness, Dad!Syverson

Authors note: @amberangel112, thanks for the Beta, side-kick ❤️

Masterlist

Fourth of July

Fourth of July celebrations were tough on Sy. He loved the daytime activities, the barbeques, the time with friends and family, but the nights were tough. He hated the fireworks. The noise was the problem, the rapid booms just made him anxious.

Overall, he coped well with his time as a soldier on active duty. He didn’t develop PTSD, he very rarely had nightmares, he says he was one of the lucky ones. Of course, there were nights when he would wake up and reach for you, needing the comfort of his woman to remind him he was safe. But he seemed to need it no more than any other man who sometimes just needed to be held in the arms of his woman, to lay his head between her breasts and be soothed by her gentle feminine embrace.

Fireworks, however, was something he could never seem to be ok with. Each 4th of July you would dutifully take the kids out to the local fairground to watch the display. Sy would stay home with the dogs, watching movies to drown out the sound.

But this year your daughter wanted her Daddy to come along, nagging at you to get Sy to go, her little mind not able to understand why he might not want to go.

“Why won’t he come, I want Daddy, or I won’t go,” she finally said. She was five and at that age where she thought of her Daddy as the perfect man, the one who all future men in her life would have to measure up to. Sy of course was wrapped around her little finger, one little quiver of her chin would send him into full protector mode, even when the perpetrators were her older brothers, no body messed with his Pumpkin. So, she made her stand and refused to go, Sy reluctantly agreed he would come along this year. He couldn’t say no to his Pumpkin.

You and Sy talked about how best to deal with the event, and you tried to figure out what made him anxious exactly. He admitted it was the noise that was the trigger, so you bought some wax earplug to help with that, but they wouldn’t stop all the noise. You assured him that you would be there, you would hold his hand and despite not wanting to admit he needed that, he thanked you.

When the time came for the fireworks, Sy started to get anxious. You held Pumpkin on your hip and brought Sy’s arms around both of you. You could feel his breathing rate increase and become shallow, so you placed his hand flat on your belly and got him to breathe with you. He smiled at you and just as the first explosion happened, he flinched. You held his hand tight too your stomach, and loud enough to be heard over the noise and his earplugs, you reminded him that he was home and safe and with his family.

Sy focussed on Pumpkin’s face, her joy and amazement, her squeals and how she bounced around in your arms with joy. He saw you start to struggle with her, she was almost at a size where you wouldn’t be able to pick her up like that any longer. Sy surprised you but taking her out of your hands and holding her himself with one arm, pulling you in close with the other. You could see he was still anxious, but he got through it. When the fireworks finally stopped, you kissed his cheek and told him you loved him. Even as you were leaving, you could see he was still a little shook up, he even asked you to drive home and was a bit quieter than usual in the car.

Later that night when the kids were in bed, he thanked you for helping him through the evening. I told him he should thank Pumpkin. He grinned and agreed and said he was lucky to have the two most wonderful girls in his life to help give him strength when he needed it.

Tag List 1

@henryobsessed @omgkatinka @legendarywizarddetective @posiemax @nostalgicb-txh @moonlacebeam @anitababi @agniavateira @blakerogue @shadesofarrogance @mansaaay @stxlemate @wheretheriversrunintothesea @amberangel112 @madbaddic7ed @eldarwen333 @wolvesandhoundshowltogether @summersong69 @littlefreya @littlebirdofrivia @luclittlepond @myloveforhenrycavill @mary-ann84 @tellingyouastory @beck07990 @zealoushound @sofiebstar @sweetlybigdragonn @bloodyinspiredfuck @marantha @diegos-butt @greensleeves888 @endofalldays01 @justaboringadult @ysmmsy @offroadinjandals @littlewrenofrivia @pussyverson @foxyjwls007 @kebabgirl67

[wheeler-beretta-harwood]

Fourth of July is the holiday when Americans get to day drink usually on the beach, backyards bbqs, or pools while eating way too many hot dogs and hamburgers. Than shoot off fireworks while trying not to burn your fingers off. How are you and your AEW bae celebrating?

I have had a little bit of writer's block with this one, that's why I didn't get it out there on time. Just pretend it's still the Fourth of July (although it isn't that important here). I am also not really happy with it.

This is a prequel to sunburn aftercare, so to speak.

"Christine!!!" I almost tackle my friend down when I hug her. She tumbles a bit, but doesn't fall.

"Calm down, Sweet Tits, it's just been 3 weeks", she replies and giggles.

Next to her, her now husband Trent just shakes his head at me.

"Stop giving me that look, Beretta. You stole my best friend for your excessively long honeymoon! 20 days!! Who does that?!" He just chuckles at my remark and wraps an arm around Christine as I let them into Cash's and my home.

We walk outside to the pool, where Dax and Cash already stand in front of the grill, each a cold beer in hand. As soon as Trent sees, his male sense tickles and he, too, stands next to the grill. I will never understand what it is with men and staring into open fire, watching meat cook itself. I laugh at the sight before pulling Christine along with me, over to where Maria sits on one of the loungers.

Cash knows I do not care much for the holiday itself as I am not American, but I love having our friends around. That's why he suggested we have a little get together at our place. It's just us 6: our newlyweds Christine and Trent, Dax and his wife Maria, and the two of us. We'll have a little BBQ with our best friends before we go to the beach and watch the fireworks there.

As the two ladies get comfortable, I walk over to get some drinks - wine for Christine, and tequila for Maria, she is her husband's wife after all, as well as a beer for myself. When I return, the two are already deep in conversation about Christine's honeymoon. Her eyes are glowing while she talks about all the things they did, the amazing food they had, and just generally about how great Trent is. I smile because I adore how happy she is with him and that they've taken the next step in their relationship. She deserves all the happiness in the world and more.

When she is finished with her story, we all look over to our men, who are in deep conversation themselves. It's either about the same we talked, or they still discuss the beauty of a good ol' BBQ. I think it is option number 1.

My eyes lock with Cash's, and for the first in a long time, I have no idea what the look he gives me means. His focus shifts back to Dax, and it seems our food is about to be ready.

When I turn back to my girls, they both expectantly look at me.

"What?!"

Maria is the first to speak. "You do realize that you're now the only one NOT married?"

I give her a weak smile. "So?"

Now Christine chimes in, looking over the frame of her sunglasses. "Soooo, when are you tying the knot?! You guys haven't even talked about it yet!"

"We actually have...at least we mentioned it. After your wedding, when we had our extended weekend. You know, the sunburn incident."

Both their eyes grow big, and I can't help but laugh. "Chill! We're not engaged. We both just said we wanted to get married to each other eventually. That's it." They both squeal, because they know it is a big step for the two of us to even just say that. It's not that we are afraid of the commitment that comes with marriage, but we both have had our trouble with accepting love. It's like we never felt worthy of love, and needed to learn just that. And it is still a process.

"Keep it down, will ya?" I try to hush them. I freak out a little when Cash walks over to us, but he just tells us the food's ready. I get up and he takes my hand and leads me over to where I set up the table earlier on. Then we enjoy our steaks, burgers, and hotdogs. It is a wonderful evening among friends, filled with funny stories and lots of laughter.

When it gets dark, we drive over to the beach, and I watch my two friends and their significant others walk in front of Cash and myself. It's not that I am jealous, but their comment keeps ringing in my ears.

I'm the only one not married...

As we walk along, Cash puts his hand on the small of my back and presses his lips on my temple. I grin and lean into his embrace. No matter how long we have been together, I still get flustered when he gets all soft with me. It makes me weak in the knees and my stomach turns in the most delicious way imaginable.

We find a nice place and wait for the fireworks to start. As soon as they go off, I notice in the corner of my eye that Trent is making out with my best friend, like a bunch of teenagers. I chuckle lowly and lean against Cash who's standing behind me. He, on the other hand, watches how Dax holds his wife close to him and kisses her cheek.

They are all so happy...

Then I feel his arms wrap around my stomach while he rests his head on my shoulder.

"Marry me please, Cash." I hear the words come out of my mouth before my brain can even process what they mean. When I realize what I just said, I feel...relieved. Free. Those words needed to come out.

Behind me, I hear Cash puff out a gust of air before he kisses my neck and whispers in my ear. "You always have to beat me to it, Buttercup." I notice him fumbling in his pocket and then he holds a velvet box in front of me. When he opens it, I see a beautiful ring with a single mint green gem.

"How long...?", is everything that comes out of my mouth as I turn my head to face him. His eyes are watery when he answers me. "Two months." My eyes tear up as well, and I press my lips against his. "I love you so much, babygirl", he says when we pull apart, "And I have known for quite some time that I want to spend the rest of my life with you. So yes, I will gladly marry you." Then he slides the ring on my finger.

"I love you too, baby. Can't wait to brag with my handsome, talented husband." We kiss again, and I feel like I am on cloud nine until Christine's voice brings me back down to earth.

"Did....did you just get engaged!?!" Our only answers are cheesy grins on our faces. She jumps up and down like a child and then throws herself at me, congratulating me. The kerfuffle she causes makes everyone around us notice what just happened and all the strangers start clapping. I hide my face in Cash's neck. "Oh God, make it stop, baby." I say, lips ghosting over his skin.

He laughs at my comment. "Oh come on, Buttercup, let's give them a show." Then he cups my face and brushes his lips against mine before passionately kissing me. I melt into his touch and don't care about anyone else around anymore. He's all that matters. When we stop kissing, I tell him the Fourth of July now is my favorite holiday.

[bacchicly]

ALAYA MEANS HOME 🔶 July 4, 2023

Note: This one ended up a bit longer than usual...let me know if that's ok? Hope you enjoy!

🔸🔶🔸

Luke's fight instincts start to buzz the moment the words fall from Penny's perfect lips.

Holding himself together, he looks at their daughter playing happily on the floor with her toy cars and the track he helped her set up in the morning while Penelope was having a holiday lie-in, forces a smile and says in his calmest most cheerful tone:

"Alaya, sweetie, Mama Penelope and I are just going to go to the kitchen for a minute, ok? If you need anything, you just give a holler, and one of us will come a-running. Okey dokey?"

"Aly-ma-skokie! Vrrrrrrrrrrrmmmmmmmmm."

Alaya quietly sing-songs her reply and goes back to making her just-audible car sounds. She doesn't even raise her seven year old head because she is confident Daddy Luke understands what she is doing is important. After all, Strawberry Thunder and Zoom Blue are not going to race themselves! Plus she just told him that she needs to practice sending them over the jump they set up this morning.

That was before the picnic at Uncle Derek's and Auntie Savannah's - which was fun and she loved the Strawberry Shortcake - but she kinda likes being home better - quieter.

Alaya is sure if she's tries, her red and blue cars should be able to jump at least 20 more times before she has to wash her hands for dinner.

Luke smiles at the tiny bent head - then with renewed resolve - frog marches his dearest Penelope into the kitchen where he plans on whisper shouting some sense into that crazy mixed up head of hers. He cannot believe how selfish she is being - his face has now dropped all traces of indulgence and the only thing keeping him from yelling at Penelope is the little girl with big ears in the next room.

"What do you mean we are going to go see the fireworks downtown? What are you thinking? How could-"

"Babes-"

Penelope's voice is soft and now she's the one with an indulgent smile curling her lips; she loves how protective Luke is of their daughter - not that she isn't - although she privately thinks it's good to each have different things they especially worry about.

Less chance of hemming in the poor child who will need to spread her wings eventually.

But Luke has cut her off and barrels on - running his hands furiously through his hair and pacing so that he looks a bit like an irate hedgehog.

"Why would you think it was remotely a good idea to take our daughter - our darling tiny perfect daughter - who can't handle the stereo being turned up loud or us raising our voices without completely melting down - to see the fireworks downtown?!? I don't care if it's something you always did with your family. It's insane! I never thought I'd ever call you selfish but-"

Penelope flushes with anger at his words - bristling at the implication that she might be thoughtless, selfish... how could he-

No. Enough.

She grabs his wrist - wrenching him out of his pacing. Pulling him to face her and hisses at him:

"Luke. Listen. Let me explain and then if you still think it's a bad idea... WE. WON'T. GO. So shut up you oaf!"

"I just-"

"Shut. It. Mister. I love you but so help me!"

Luke clamps his mouth shut but he's grinding his teeth.

"If you'd let me finish before dragging me out here... Kristy just phoned to ask if we wanted to watch the fireworks from inside a room at the Hay Adams - apparently a friend of Matt's had booked two rooms with a Mall view but can't use-"

"Inside?"

"We'll have our own room AND the only thing Kristy apologized about is that we may not be able to hear the fireworks proper-."

Luke cuts her off - this time with a kiss then tugs her hand - bounding off - dragging her back to the livingroom - his smile as wide as it will go.

"What are you waiting for, Pen? Let's tell Alaya!"

Their nightowl child is going to LOVE this.

🔸🔶  SERIES TIMELINE WITH LINKS! 🔶🔸

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[im-in-love-with-pizza-bites]

Legend Lake: Chapter 5

Charlie Gillespie X Fem!Reader

Series MasterList

Summary: You bring your boyfriend of three years with you to your grandparent's lake house for the first time.

Warnings: None that I know of.

Inspo: Miggie Snyder's song Legend Lake.

"Come on let me in on the secret your keeping!" Dale crossed his arms glaring at his cousins and Charlie. He had heard them whispering a lately, and how Charlie hid something around him. He wanted to be included in what his cousins, and Charlie were hiding.

"Because your terrible at keeping secrets! Especially from y/n!" Gavin said rolling his eyes.

"Remember when you told her about the surprise party?"

"Yeah she told me about that!" Charlie laughed.

"I promise I won't tell this time!" Dale begged. Which was a lie he said that about your surprise party.

"I cant trust you. Sorry." Charlie laughed.

"Okay now that, that's over. I need to ask you guys something." Theo sat up. The other men looked at him. "You're my groomsmen now. Gavin your my best man."

"Is that your way of asking us to be your groomsmen?" Dale asked laughing.

"Yes it is dale. When you asked me and Gavin to be your groomsmen you texted us. And I would've done that but Melody told me I had to ask in person." Theodore rolled his eyes. "And you didn't even make one of us your best man."

"I'm allowed to have other friends Y'know." He scoffed.

"I'll be your groomsman." Charlie agreed.

"Good! Dale?"

"Yeah sure."

"I'm in! Your bachelor party is gonna be epic." Gavin smiled.

———

"You're gonna be the prettiest bridesmaid there." Charlie whisper smiling. So far the vacation was going great. It was 4th of July today and you had been telling him about the firework show that happens every year for awhile and he couldn't wait to watch it. This also would be the first forth of July he spends with you, since your always here and he isn't. You guys would usually be on face time though.

"And you'll be the most handsome groomsman." You smiled gazing up at him. You honestly couldn't believe your brother asked Charlie to be one of his groomsmen. He and Melody told you and Gavin that the people your date would more than likely not be apart of the wedding party. They said they didn't want you two to constantly be reminded of your ex when you looked at the wedding photos in case of either of you breaking up with whomever you were dating.

You assumed they just changed their mind. But you also knew that Aubrey didn't get asked to be a bridesmaid. You shrugged it off to you and Charlie being together three years while, Aubrey and Gavin have only been together a year. Though you would soon know the real reason.

"You know your being welcomed into my family quite a bit." You chuckled smiling at him.

"I'm charming that's why." Charlie smirked taking a sip of the homemade lemonade your grandma made.

"Still my family didn't even like Camila this until Dale Said he was gonna propose." You said looking at the lake. Charlie looked at you worried you figured it out. "I guess that doesn't matter that was like 4 years ago things change." He relaxed and shrugged.

"I think I'm just charming."

"No you not. You just make y/n happy." Dale said walking over. "Anyway if we want to get a good spot to watch the firework show we have to love now."

"It's only 6 though I thought the fireworks don't start till 9?" Charlie asked.

"It's usually packed by 8." You shrugged.

"Oh. Okay so we go?"

"Yep!" You smiled standing up. "Let's go!!" You said pulling your boyfriend with you. Dale laughed as you dragged Charlie away.

"Careful!! Your gonna pop his arm out of it's socket you idiot!" He shouted. Hearing this you dropped your boyfriend's hand and told him to follow. Charlie pouted and grabbed your hand back before the two of you continued into the house. "Idiots." Dale muttered.

Soon everyone was in a park where you could see the fireworks which wouldn't started for another 3 hours. You have your own blanket with Charlie. Everyone had their own all close to each other that they were sharing with whoever they are married to or dating, except Charlotte who had her own but she was face timing her girlfriend, who would be here but her parents said no. You smiled at Charlie who was sneaking up behind your sister to mess with her.

"Hi nickname twin!" Charlie jumped onto her blanket smiling. She looked at him annoyed.

"I'm on the phone."

"Oh hi." Charlie smirked at the phone. "Whos she." He whispered to your sister who rolled her eyes.

"My girlfriend, Avery." Charlotte rolled her eyes.

"Hi!" Avery smiled through the phone waving.

"Hello." Charlie smiled.

"Char! Leave them alone let's go for a walk before the show." You said saving your sister from your boyfriend.

"Thank you." Charlotte mouthed.

"Do your brothers hate Avery like they do me?" Charlie asked as once out of ear shot of your family.

"I don't know. All I know is your more likely to get jumped since they don't hit women." You smiled.

"That's comforting." Charlie pouted.

"Don't worry they really seem to like you. Theo said you weren't going to be a part of the wedding. Your somehow a Groomsmen." You assured your boyfriend patting his back.

"Yeah." He nodded. He knows the real reason, he's hopefully about to be apart of the family.

"Okay. Let's go back now." You smiled.

Charlie kinda wanted to propose right then and there but he chickened out following you back to the blanket.

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