#It is summer and there is almost no chance of me getting kicked or catching a football in the wrong place

[violetmuses]

Angel - T. Richmond ❤️‍🩹

Title: Angel - T. Richmond ❤️‍🩹

Fandom: “Rebel Ridge” Film Universe

Character: Terry Richmond

Pairing: Terry Richmond + Female Reader

Main Storyline: Facing one nightmare could lead to unexpected joy.

@episodes-ff @diaries-of-me @blackgurlnhermoods @liquorlaughslove @babybratzmaraj @cloveroctobers @becauseimswagman1 @slippinninque 🏷

=====

2024

“Excuse me?” Grounded in the rural town of Shelby Springs, veteran Terry Richmond noticed your own steps moving down this federal corridor.

“Yes?” You've turned around mid-stride when someone catches your attention.

Goodness gracious.

Towering this muscular build as he chose one fitted shirt, veteran Terry Richmond offered unexpected height as his striking gaze reached your direction.

“I left the police station this morning and I don't have representation yet. Do you know anyone available?” His deep yet gentle voice nearly shook up your presence.

“Depending on your case, finding assistance could be difficult. Most of us scramble here with many circumstances.” Clearing your throat, an explanation offered the truth.

“Are you swamped?” Richmond handed out the question for obvious reasons.

“I might as well be.” You sighed while holding this briefcase. “This town is so small that you'll cough and everyone will know about it.”

“I just need help if something goes wrong.” Terry knew better.

“Follow me. Let's speak in private.” You offered this path while heading elsewhere.

______

“I'm sorry if there's too much going on, but how can I move forward?” Richmond sat across from you while placed in this cramped office.

“No chance in hell.” Struggling with advice, you shook your head after learning Terry Richmond's case. "Just show up on Monday like the Chief said or you've lost an opportunity.”

“He's not very nice.” Richmond settled his frustration regarding Sandy Burne, the arrogant Chief of Police.

“Burne is only tolerable if folks put up with his nonsense.” You say. “Defiance gets your ass kicked out.”

“I'll be gone if everything stays in order.” Terry just wanted to leave this place with his cousin Mike alive.

“Be careful out here.” Your voice cautioned. “The police department has more resources than everyone else.”

“Does Burne know who you are?” Terry still looked out.

“Enough to keep me working.” You almost scoffed behind the desk. “Tight skirts always make money. There's so many perverts that I even collected wedding rings for this side of town.”

Damn. Richmond thought.

“Apologies for wasting time.” Terry stood from the chair and gathered his backpack, ready to go.

“Here's my contact info as a safeguard.” You exchanged phone numbers.

“Thank you, Ma'am.” Terry nodded, leaving this establishment.

******

“Terry! I heard the news. Where are you?” You picked up this phone in broad daylight.

Reports explained drama that bled from the corrupt police station.

“At the hospital. Medics started helping Summer McBride.” Richmond acknowledged one of the other legal assistants.

“What's the next plan? You can't stay here forever.” Your voice warned again.

“I've figured out a settlement.” Terry explained further. “We locked enough proof to shut everything down.”

“What should I do?” You didn't even know what to think. “Summer's probably knocked off from ailments.”

“Please pick me up from the lobby.” Richmond continued speaking. “I lost my bike and just gave back one of their police cruisers.”

“Okay. Stay there.” You snatched car keys without thinking twice and rushed out of work.

******

“Terry!” You honked while staying in that driver's seat and Terry jogged outdoors, circled around to meet the passenger side.

“Thank you.” Despite expressing gratitude, Richmond couldn't smile when you punched the gas to avoid more problems.

______

“Where should we go, Terry?“ Given no other choice, you kept driving. “With Burne still mad, you're better off leaving this place.”

“Come with me.” Richmond pulled his deep voice again.

“What?” Squinting, you nearly pulled the car over right now.

“If I couldn't help Mike and Summer get out of here, maybe there's a chance with us.” Terry offered.

“I….” You've made one turn and led Richmond near the airport.

“No matter what happens, we'll keep looking out for each other. Deal?” His words revealed this vow.

“Deal.” You hurried to park the car before gas would run out and reached Terry's hand while entering that larger terminal.

*****

Scoring this new home, you joined Richmond and practically lived together now.

“No luck?” Terry snuck from behind as you work with your laptop by the kitchen table.

“Stop it!” Laughing, you almost swatted him away as this rare yet adorable smile brightened his face.

“I'm asking.” Richmond pointed to the main screen.

“Working soon.” You grinned while confirming another placement.

“Aight, c'mon…” Hardly responding, Terry lifted your weight and carried you over his shoulder, leading this moment upstairs.

“Wait, put me down!” Your laugh would echo straight through his mind forever.

[theres-whump-in-that-nebula]

Oh my god. You know it’s getting bad when you start doing things you don’t even want to do to procrastinate on something you really do want to do.

It would be one thing if it were something like a hobby; but the thing I want to do is also extremely necessary to my life.

[anniebeemine]

Thursday Night Date Night- s.r. x fem!reader

There are few things Spencer can do to surprise you anymore. After being together for so long, you’ve come to know his little quirks and habits as well as your own.

For example, every Tuesday without fail, he brings you a coffee from Canela’s, your favorite café just a few blocks from the office. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the room, and he hands you the cup with a soft smile, knowing exactly how you like it—just the right amount of cream and sugar, with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. It’s one of those simple gestures that never fails to make your day a little brighter.

Then there are the Thursdays. The day he insists on taking you out to dinner, no matter how busy or tired you both are. It started out as a way to break up the week, a chance to unwind together after a long day, but over time it’s become more than just a routine. It’s become a tradition, something you both look forward to—a time to reconnect, to laugh, to talk about everything and nothing.

Tonight was no different.

After a lovely dinner at your favorite little bistro, you both set out on your usual evening walk. The summer air was warm, the city humming quietly around you as you strolled hand in hand, the world fading into the background as you focused on each other.

Spencer, ever the encyclopedia of knowledge, started rattling off facts about the trees lining the path. “Did you know that oak trees can live for over 1,000 years? The oldest one in the world is around 1,500 years old,” he said, his voice full of quiet wonder as he shared these bits of trivia with you.

You smiled, listening to the sound of his voice more than the actual words. His enthusiasm was infectious, and you found yourself completely enamored by the way he talked about the world. There was something so comforting, so grounding about Spencer’s endless stream of facts—something that reminded you of how much you loved him.

As you walked, Spencer led you to a small park you’d passed a hundred times but never really explored. He guided you to a set of swings, their seats gently swaying in the breeze.

“Wanna swing for a bit?” he asked, his eyes twinkling with a playful glint.

You couldn’t help but laugh as you took a seat on one of the swings, your feet kicking off the ground to get yourself moving. Spencer took the swing next to you, and for a few moments, the two of you just swung in comfortable silence, the creaking of the chains the only sound between you.

The conversation drifted back to the trees, Spencer idly talking about their history and significance. You were barely listening now, too caught up in the way his hair caught the light from the streetlamps, the way his eyes sparkled when he got lost in thought. You were completely entranced by him, lost in your thoughts as you stared, when suddenly his voice broke through your reverie.

“Did you hear what I said?” he asked, his tone tinged with a hint of worry.

You blinked, snapping back to the present. “What? I’m sorry, I was… I was just—”

“I asked if you'd marry me,” Spencer repeated, his voice soft but steady, his eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that made your heart skip a beat.

For a moment, you were completely thrown. Spencer had a way of surprising you from time to time, but this—this was beyond anything you could have ever expected. Your mind raced, trying to catch up with the words he’d just spoken, to make sense of the way the world seemed to tilt and shift around you.

He must have seen the shock in your eyes because he gently guided you to your feet, his touch steadying you as he led you off the swings. “Come with me,” he murmured, his voice full of a soft, nervous excitement. You let him take your hand, your heart pounding in your chest as he guided you down a winding path through the park, the world around you feeling almost dreamlike in its stillness.

As you walked, you noticed a warm glow ahead, the soft twinkle of lights strung up in the trees. Your breath caught in your throat as Spencer led you to a small gazebo, its wooden beams wrapped in twinkling fairy lights that bathed the entire structure in a soft, golden hue. It was like something out of a fairy tale, and the sight of it took your breath away.

Spencer stopped in the middle of the gazebo, turning to face you. He held both of your hands in his, his gaze steady and full of love as he looked at you. You could see the nervousness in his eyes, but more than that, you saw the certainty—the absolute conviction in what he was about to do.

Without a word, Spencer slowly dropped to one knee, still holding your hands as he reached into his pocket. Your heart skipped a beat as he pulled out a small, velvet box, the sight of it sending a jolt of realization through you. He opened it to reveal a delicate ring, one you instantly recognized. It was a ring you had seen months ago while flipping through a magazine, a simple yet elegant piece with a vintage design. You’d folded the corner of the page, making a mental note of it, never imagining that Spencer would find it, let alone track it down.

You stared down at him, completely overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness, the love, the care that went into this moment. Spencer had always been attentive, always noticing the little things, but this�� this was beyond anything you could have imagined.

“You…” You trailed off, your breath catching in your throat as the reality of what he’d just asked finally sunk in. “You want to marry me?”

Spencer nodded, a small, nervous smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “I do,” he said, his voice filled with so much sincerity it made your chest ache. “I love you. More than I ever thought was possible. And I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” He swallowed thickly, nervously. “I had a whole speech prepared but.. I’m blanking.”

Tears welled up in your eyes as the full weight of his words hit you. You let out a shaky laugh, barely able to believe what was happening. “Spence,” you whispered, your voice thick with emotion. “I… I don’t even know what to say.”

“Say yes,” he replied, his tone gentle but certain. “Say you’ll marry me.”

Your heart swelled, the love you felt for him almost overwhelming in its intensity. Without a second thought, you nodded, a smile breaking across your face as you spoke the only word that mattered.

“Yes,” you said, your voice trembling with happiness. “Yes, I’ll marry you.”

The relief that washed over Spencer’s face was palpable, and in an instant, he was out of his swing, pulling you into his arms. You wrapped your arms around him, holding him close as you laughed through your tears, the world around you fading into nothing as you held onto the one person who meant everything to you.

Spencer took your hand gently, noticing how it trembled as he slid the ring onto your finger. His touch was warm and steady, a stark contrast to the way your hands shook with overwhelming emotion. As the ring settled into place, he looked up at you with a soft smile, his eyes filled with affection and a hint of amusement.

“You’re shaking so much,” he teased lightly, his thumb brushing over your knuckles.

You couldn’t help but let out a watery laugh, the sound mingling with the tears streaming down your face. “You caught me off guard,” you said, your voice trembling just as much as your hands. You playfully punched his arm, the gesture affectionate and light, though it did nothing to mask the flood of emotions coursing through you.

Spencer chuckled, his smile growing smug as he raised an eyebrow at you. “That was the plan,” he replied, his voice laced with satisfaction.

You shook your head, still giggling through your tears, feeling an overwhelming sense of joy and love for the man standing before you. “You really outdid yourself, Spencer.”

In that moment, under the glow of the streetlights and the gentle rustle of the trees, Spencer had completely thrown you for a loop.

[ltsokaylove]

“Endroit Sûr” Safe Place

A Regulus Black x Reader

Summary: After a long summer of not being able to write to one another, you reunite in his dorm at the beginning of sixth year.

!Tw!

Scars, very brief mention of abuse

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The amount of relief that flooded her system on the first day of sixth year was astronomical to say the least. Leaving Regulus alone in the company of his family was the last thing she wanted to do, but as a half blood, she didn't really have the option to go with him.

The fall air felt amazing on her face as she walked into the train station. After walking through to platform 9 3/4, her eyes betray her and search the station for Regulus and his family. Her eyes catch on Regulus and his parents before Shes startled out of her staring.

"Y/n!'

She turns and is met with the mischievous face of Sirius.

"Make it any more obvious and my mother will probably come hex you,"

Her face heats up immensely. "Shut up Siri," she mumbles into his chest as he embraces you lovingly. You feel the rumble of a chuckle as it breaks out through his chest. "Missed you idiot,"

"Missed you too chéri," he says with a childlike glint in his eye.

She rolls her eys playfully, pushing herself out of his grasp.

"I know, I know it'll always be my brother," he dramatically sniffles and grabs his arm as if he's physically wounded.

"Oh toughen up Padfoot!" James yells from behind her, tackling them both simultaneously and pulling her into a warm hug.

They find Remus and Peter before retreating into your usual compartment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hogwarts felt a little different this time around, colder maybe? Or maybe the only thing that was bothering her was the fact that she couldn't get Regulus to look at her once throughout the entire feast, and he wasn't in his usual compartment on the train.

Her heart ached for him, and it wasn't a feeling she liked. The entire walk back to the Gryffindor common room her mind spiraled on how she would get James to lend you his cloak.

The second the boys ventured up the stairs to their dorm you were on their tails.

"Y/nnn, what do you want? To see us naked? Were gonna change."

She snorts, "Fuck off James I need your cloak".

James is laying stomach down on his bed facing her, his legs kicking up like a schoolgirl. "What for dear Y/n?" He teases with a smirk.

She rolls her eyes at his antics. "You know,"

"Fine"

"Thank you so muc-"

"But you're doing my charms homework for a week"

Her smile dissipates, "Fine, James, give it".

He smiles mischievously tossing it at her head.

"You little-"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You threw the cloak over your body, cradling it close as you stealthily navigated the hallways to the Slytherin common room like you had so many times before.

She creeps into his dorm silently, praying his roommates aren't there, even though she knows they're definitely out partying with the Ravenclaws since its their first night back.

The first thing she sees is beautiful, Regulus laying on his side with his back to her. The candlelight perfectly illuminates the muscles in his back. The breath is almost stolen from her as she admires the candid beauty of him, until she almost has a heart attack as she notices the scars running at his lower back.

She drops the cloak immediately, "Reg?" He doesn't even have a chance to be surprised before you're on the bed next to him cautiously examining his body, or the parts of it that aren't shielded by the black satiny sheets of his bed.

"Mon chéri?" he asks cautiously looking at you, as if its you that should be breaking down instead of him. "Why are you here?"

"God Reg, I've been so worried about you".

His stoic expression immediately drops when he sees the look on your face, he takes a slightly shuddering breath before exhaling.

"And when I couldn't find you on the train, or get you to look at me during dinner, I thought I messed it up somehow-"

He sits up, "You didn't do anything, wrong, I promise-"

She sighs, gently running a hand through his dark curls. "I don't even care about that right now, Reg. What happened?"

He looks at her with a heartbreakingly vulnerable expression, like he's ready to beg her for mercy. But for what? She doesn't know.

He's shaking, "Remember I love you so much, I would never hurt you or let anyone else-"

She swallows, "What is it Reg? I can take it,"

After a few beats he breaks the silence, "I got the mark- I didn't want to-" he swallows, "I just don't want to die yet".

He studies the expression on her face, "Please don't leave me," his voice is so tiny and desperate that you almost didn't hear the small plead.

"No, no. Of course I'm not leaving you- I'm just a little shocked as all," she immediately pulls him into her arms. As she does so she gets a view of the rest of the scars along his torso and chest and she starts to tear up, heartbroken. "What did they do to you,"

He seems pained but sounds unbothered when he answers you, "Oh you know," he laughs lightly, "Just mother".

She doesn't laugh with him. "I don't want you to stay in that house.."

"Its not that easy-"

"I know its just- I worry. I couldn't fathom losing you".

"You've got me," with says with finality, leaving no room for argument or dismissal.

She embraces him tighter.

"Stay the night love?" he asks looking down at her with hope filled eyes.

She grins hesitantly, "I was just about to ask".

He walks over to his closet and tosses her a sweater and sweatpants. “Here get comfy”.

She nods thankfully before quickly changing, ignoring the heat pooling in her stomach as she feels him watching her intently.

“Take a picture it’ll last longer,” she giggles throwing her old shirt at him.

He rolls his eyes playfully, and pulls her by the waist back into bed. His arms tighten around him and he pulls her closer, all the tension in his body disappearing the moment she touches him.

“You really are my endroit sûr, mon chéri,“

“Endroit sûr?” She asks quietly, face buried into the crook of his neck.

“Safe place, your my safe place darling”.

[moonlightspencie]

… Angels Roll Their Eyes

Description: A new recruit to the BAU catches Reid’s eye. Unfortunately for the both of them, she has a past with someone very close to him. Are they willing to keep secrets just to keep one another? (TWO-PART MINISERIES)

Pairing: Spencer Reid x fem!Reader

Warnings: alcohol consumption, reader gets a minor injury, sexual references/content (i’ll accept 16+ because its definitely not more than pg-13 material but writing anything sexy makes me feel weird if i know teenagers are reading it)

Word Count: 4.2k

A/N: READER’S POV!! this is where the bridge kicks in teehee. (also savannah is more of a minor character at this point, nobody really knows she and derek are together)

Devils Roll the Dice… (click for part 1)

I walked up to the figure illuminated by vending machine lights. His head was down as he looked through the options, not really intending on buying anything at all. I slowed my steps on the approach, just barely catching his attention before I was right next to him.

“Hey,” he said quietly, giving me a soft smile.

I grinned in full, not bothering to hide my feelings. Nobody was around, anyways.

“Hey. You come here often?”

He laughed. “Only this once. Waiting around for this girl who said she’d meet me here.”

“Sounds like she’s into you.”

He nodded. “I think so.”

I grabbed his hand, attempting to pull him closer. He took the advantage to bring me in instead, my back against the hard plastic of the machine’s display. Rather than kissing me then and there, he leaned in, lips unbearably close to my ear.

“I feel like we’re sneaking around past our parents,” he said quietly.

“You never got that ‘teenage dream’ experience. Maybe this is your second chance.”

He smiled. “Maybe.”

His lips pressed to mine, silencing our whispered words for good.

We were far from teenagers at this point, but he was still a dream. I found myself feeling giddy at every turn, completely ignoring the impending doom that loomed over our relationship.

We both knew we weren’t trying hard enough to hide it. Neither of us knew what would happen when it finally came to light.

Until that happened, we’d pretend it wasn’t in the cards at all. Summer love was still sweet, even being far removed from the romanticism of anything resembling the movie-loves I’d grown accustomed to religiously watching. This was somehow better. Maybe because it was more realistic. Probably because it was always more thrilling to live it out.

I smiled into our kiss, feeling his wandering hands trying to get themselves under my legs to lift me up. Sadly, we never got the chance.

We heard footsteps coming down the hall quickly, breaking apart and trying to look as nonchalant as possible as we mindlessly gazed at the snacks inside the machine.

“I’m thinking M&Ms,” I noted, almost laughing.

Spencer hid a smile. He clicked the right buttons right as our visitor reached us. The little package dropped, our secret still somehow concealed from a slightly-confused Aaron Hotchner as he stood behind us waiting for his turn.

“Night,” I said, giving a slight nod.

“Goodnight.”

Spencer followed behind me, hoping it wouldn’t be obvious that he didn’t have some cheap snack of his own in hand as we walked past. I rationalized that he looked too tired to notice, anyways.

We wound up back in my room, giggling with each other like kids at a sleepover. I made him do a face-mask with me while he made me listen to a lecture on how the hyaluronic acid in the formula provided moisture for our skin. I gladly listened with a smile on my face, and he happily accepted a hundred kisses as I wiped his face clean afterwards.

We laid on my bed, mindlessly talking about whatever came to mind. He took my hand in his, running his thumb across the back of my hand in repeated motions as we talked.

“What do you say we stop hiding us?” I asked at last, staring at the ceiling. “I’ve established myself on the team at this point, I think.”

He was quiet for a moment, still running his thumb over my hand.

“I don’t know. I think it’s better that we keep it quiet.”

I paused, taking in his response. I’d hoped that after a while we wouldn’t be hiding anymore. As much fun as it was to sneak around, it could be utterly exhausting. But, if he still wanted to, I’d agree.

“Okay.”

“Okay?” he questioned, turning his head to look at me.

I looked back at him, giving him a small smile and a nod.

“Yeah. If that’s what you want, it’s fine by me.”

He smiled, pressing a kiss to my forehead. I sprung up a moment after, standing at the foot of the bed. I grabbed my phone, clicking around on the screen as he propped himself up to look at me. I held out a hand to him.

“Dance with me, pretty boy,” I sang out, hitting shuffle on one of my playlists.

He quickly obliged, not wasting a second in worrying about whether or not he could actually dance. He knew I’d be there to guide whatever movements he didn’t know how to do yet.

Whispers of ‘are you sure?’

I smiled at him, admiring the way he payed way too much attention to how he moved. I made it a goal to loosen him up. After a minute, he was letting me guide, leaving his body to its own devices. He was really better off for it.

I can see us lost in the memory

We swayed along to the song, silently praying it wasn’t some kind of sick foreshadowing of how our summer would end. I pretended not to care much about the lyrics. He pretended not to listen to most of them.

August sipped away like a bottle of wine

Cause you were never mine

“Do you think that’ll happen to us?” I asked, still smiling past the gravity of the question.

“Of course not,” he answered with finality.

Wanting was enough

For me it was enough

To live for the hope of it all

I took his hands, the both of us spinning around in circles with smiles on our faces that were real and genuine despite a nagging feeling that something might be wrong.

I knew mine had a lot to do with very real feelings I was scared to talk about. I was too afraid to think about what may have filled his head. It was really none of my business, anyways, so I cleared my head of it all. Wanting was enough. I didn’t have to doubt that. It had been enough for two months so far. That had to count for something.

Weeks later and it was August. That lingering question of “will it last” was ever-present in my head. I just kept pushing it down. Fuck compartmentalization. That question was locked in a dungeon, chained to a wall, and I intended on keeping it there until we were either burning to the ground or eloping in Vegas.

Those seemed like the most viable options, anyway. An extremely-attached, yet no-strings kind of situationship could really only go one of two ways.

I almost wanted him to hate me at that point. It would certainly be a thrilling end if he revealed that he never cared about me and was only doing all of this to screw with my head. Almost like he was a spy, trying to uncover whatever boring substance made up my psyche.

I knew that was… Slightly less realistic, though.

I probably shouldn’t have been thinking about it so thoroughly, especially since it was merely theoretical. It would have caused a lot less mental work. It also might have prevented me from being off my game.

I had a habit of being a bit clumsy when we weren’t in life-threatening situations, but messing up while we were on a case? Unbearably embarrassing.

I looked up as my arm hit the wall to stop me from falling over my own two feet, disgusting to find that an exposed nail head had given me quite the scratch. It looked pretty gnarly, and frankly I was thanking my lucky stars I’d already gotten a tetanus booster after my last injury. However, I probably couldn’t go much further with my arm bleeding. Especially if they didn’t necessarily need me. It was one man they were going after, and we didn’t even know if he was in this house.

I voiced to Hotch what had happened, and he told me to leave if I was safe enough to do so. JJ and three officers occupied the house anyways, so I booked it out of there.

I cleaned myself up as well as I could with the first aid kit in the car, planning on doing a better job when I got back to the precinct. The house we were in turned out to be a bust anyways. Our unsub was still in the wind. He clearly hadn’t even been in the house in weeks. It was wildly frustrating.

Until Miss Penelope Garcia called in to save the day as she always did. She let JJ and I know that the others were currently heading across town to an apartment that she was certain housed the unsub and our most recent victim.

“Finally,” I sighed, leaning my head back in the seat.

JJ was quiet, and I looked away from my driving to see her. She smiled at me when I turned my head.

“What?” I questioned with a laugh.

“Can I ask you something?” she inquired, sitting up a little more straight. “It’s a little personal.”

I quirked a brow. “You can ask, but I reserve my right to remain silent.”

She laughed. “Alright. Fair enough. Uh, I’m just wondering about you and a certain team member.”

I swallowed. Uh oh.

“Okay?”

“I’ve just— I’ve heard rumors, and I wanted to ask you directly about them rather than letting the rumor-mill run.”

I nodded slowly. “What have you heard?”

“Word on the street is that you and Morgan used to be an item.”

Oh.

“Ah,” I replied with a chuckle. “Uh, yeah. Yeah, we were a thing. But that was a while ago, and I’m pretty certain we’ve moved past it.”

“Right, yeah,” she nodded. “You know, he has a secret girlfriend now.”

I smiled, glancing at her. “Really?”

She nodded again. “Yeah. He’s been trying to hide it, but Garcia loves to talk.”

I laughed, thinking of the bubbly, well-meaning woman. She had a hard time with secrets, though she tried her hardest.

“That’s good. He deserves to be happy, he was always a great guy,” I said.

“Just gotta look past all of the mindless flirting and the jock-persona,” JJ noted jokingly.

I hummed in agreement, turning down the road that would lead us to the precinct at last. It was a good thing, too, since my arm was really starting to irritate me now. My discomfort must have been obvious, as JJ looked at me once again.

“You okay?” she questioned. “That cut on your arm looks pretty painful.”

I looked at it, noticing there was some bleed-through on the bandage. I sighed, not looking forward to cleaning it up.

“I’ll live. It just itches pretty bad right now, and it’s fairly sore.”

“I can help you when we’re back at the station. You shouldn’t have to do that alone.”

“Thanks Jayje,” I said, resting a hand on her arm briefly.

She covered my hand with her own, giving me another smile. It felt like she could see through me on occasion. She had quickly become one of my closest friends on the team, which took me a little by surprise. She seemed a little too unironic-girlboss when I first met her, but the second Penelope helped me see her true colors… We were fast friends.

I almost found myself telling her about Spencer and I on multiple occasions, but always ended up thinking better of the idea. That moment was one of the times I almost said something.

Of course, I thought twice about it, but she gave me that look like she knew what I was thinking.

I found an out when we pulled into the precinct, and took up her offer to help me with properly fixing up my arm. We made light conversation as I tried like hell not to focus on the stinging pain that occurred every time she probed at the cut.

We did whatever we could to help after she was finished. At least until the rest of the team showed up. But, to my delight, we rounded out our night by heading home and going straight to the bar.

I didn’t often let myself get well and truly drunk. Especially not when I was around Spencer. I knew I had been staring at him once I downed my sixth shot, but by the third mixed drink he was pulling me out of the bar. He threw out some kind of excuse that he was tired and I needed a ride home.

“What’s up with you?” he asked after bidding a goodnight to everyone else. “You’ve been acting weird, and now you’re getting wasted.”

I was annoyed by the comment, but there was concern in his voice over everything else. I leaned into him as we walked towards my car.

“I just wanted to have some fun, Spencie.”

He sighed, continuing to help me walk until we reached my vehicle.

“Come on,” he muttered under his breath, helping me into the backseat of the car.

I slumped over into the seat as he did, just barely letting him put the seatbelt around me and click it into place. He was fairly quiet as he did so, which really only furthered my concern. Even drunk I knew well enough to see that something was off with him. He shut the door, and I let myself drop against the seat, listening as he opened and closed the driver’s side door.

I glanced up, seeing him adjust the mirror to keep an eye on me in the seat rather than the road. It was dangerous and stupid. And so sweet it made my stomach flip.

I let my mind wander as he turned on the radio, thought he kept it low, and started driving. I thought of him and the summer we’d shared thus far. Three months is nothing in the grand scheme of life, but it felt like everything when I was with him. He felt like everything in that time. I hated keeping him a secret so much.

Maybe I shouldn’t have drank so much.

I let out the tears I was holding back, sniffling as the snot starting trying to weasel its way out of my system. If I was going to cry like a baby, I wasn’t going let myself get all gross and grimy. That’s where I drew the line. I’d make sure at least some of my dignity was preserved.

He looked at me in the rear view mirror, brows furrowing.

“Y/N?”

I sniffled.

“Yeah?” I managed, knowing I sounded absolutely pathetic.

“Are you okay?” he asked, his voice soft. “Why are you crying?”

I met his eyes as he continually glanced at me in the mirror. I had to have looked ridiculous, laying on the backseat with tears streaming down my face for seemingly no reason.

“I’m fine.”

He deadpanned. “You’re sobbing in the backseat of your own car.”

“I’m fine,” I said again through tears, voice coming out much more whiny than I’d intended.

He said my name as a warning, seeing through my… untruth. I felt more happy calling it that than anything else. I looked at him, admiring his pretty face through the mirror as he looked on at the road ahead. Maybe it was a good idea for him to practically drag me out of the bar. I could be a messy drunk, and I definitely would’ve outed us by wanting to be messy with him in front of the team if I’d drank any more.

Keeping secrets sucked. It was stupid and annoying. Especially when he was so hot.

I whined out loud at the though, squeezing my eyes shut.

“What?” he whined back, a laugh on his lips.

“I’m sick of this.”

“Sick of what, baby?”

I sighed, wiping away tears that kept on rolling.

“Keeping secrets. I don’t want to have to keep hiding this just to keep you.”

He sighed to match mine. “I know.”

“I don’t want to do it anymore.”

“Honey, we don’t have much of a choice.”

“But I’m going to explode if I can’t kiss you in public anymore.”

“No, you won’t,” he said, looking at me again.

I pouted. “I will.”

“You’re drunk, baby. We’ll get you into bed and you’ll feel better tomorrow.”

“Will you come to bed with me?”

He smiled softly. “Of course.”

I felt the car starting to slow, and though my vision was a little blurry, I saw the green light ahead turn to yellow. I looked at him again, a small smile coming to my tear-soaked face.

“Spencie?”

He hummed in question, not yet looking at me.

“Can I tell you something really stupid?”

“I’d love nothing more.”

I paused for a moment, letting my inebriated state wipe away any inhibitions I may have had otherwise. The car stopped at the light at last. I smiled softly.

“For what it’s worth, I love you,” I mumbled. “And it’s the worst fucking thing you could hear right now.”

I hoped he’d say it back, though part of me expected him to pretend he hadn’t heard me at all.

I definitely didn’t expect him to look at me through the mirror with a devilish smirk.

“I know you do,” he stated. “And it’s not the worst thing I‘ve heard by a long shot.”

I bit my lip to hold back a smile as he pulled away from the light. We ended up back at my apartment, Spencer still helping me stumble the whole way there. I pushed him back against the door as soon as we were inside, but he held my wrists to stop me from feeling him up. I pouted.

“Ow,” I said, pulling my injured arm from him.

“You okay, princess?”

I nodded, quiet. He simply looked at me, certainly not believing me.

“Why are you doing that?” I questioned.

His eyes widened. “W-why am I stopping you?”

I nodded silently, still pouting.

“Baby— You’re drunk. I’m not doing anything with you while you’re drunk.”

I dropped my hands, whining as I leaned my full body into his. He wrapped his arms around me, walking— more so waddling— with me until we reached my couch.

“I just wanna kiss you,” I grumbled into his chest, letting him drop me onto the cushions.

I stared up at him, trying to look alluring. I probably just looked a little out of my mind.

“I love kissing you, but not while you’re so drunk you can’t even stand up by yourself without almost tipping over,” he said, smiling softly as he crouched between my legs.

He leaned up, softly kissing my forehead. He kept my face in his hands, looking at me. He let one hand drop, running it across my arm. I pulled back again, feeling the discomfort in my arm from my earlier injury.

He furrowed his brow, looking down at my arm as it was covered by my sleeve.

“Are you okay?”

I nodded. “I’m fine.”

“You pulled away twice when I touched your arm.”

“It’s okay.”

He sighed, grabbing my arm and gently moving my sleeve up over the bandage. He let out a sharp breath.

“Why didn’t you tell me about this?” he asked, trying not to be annoyed with my concealment. “When did you get hurt?”

I deflated. “Today.”

“How?”

“I got cut. Fell into a nail in the wall.”

He ran a hand over his face. “You should’ve told me.”

“Why?”

He glanced up, furrowing his brow. He was clearly annoyed with me, but I couldn’t bring myself to feel terribly about it.

“Because I want to know when you’re hurt.”

I swallowed. Okay, that made me feel a little guilty.

“It’s not a big deal.”

“It is. That’s a pretty big bandage.”

I was quiet for a moment. “I’m sorry. I just didn’t want you to worry.”

“It’s my job to worry about you.”

“No, it isn’t.”

He quirked a brow. “Why not?”

“We aren’t even like… A real couple,” I said, closing my eyes. “All we do is sneak around and you don’t ever want to tell anyone and I just don’t think that we can keep acting like it’s gonna last forever if we can’t even tell friends about—”

“It’s not my fault you dated Derek first,” he said, cutting me off.

I scoffed. “He doesn’t even care. That was forever ago and he has his secret girlfriend now anyways.”

“You wanted to keep this secret in the first place.”

“Well I’m sick of it,” I yelled. “I’m sick of keeping secrets and I’m sick of you not caring that I’m in love with you.”

“Not caring?” he asked, voice raising as he leaned back on his knees.

“You didn’t even say it back when I said it.”

“Because you’re drunk! How am I supposed to know if you even mean it?”

“Because I do!”

I groaned, my head dropping back against the cushions. My buzz was starting to wane, and I wished it would hold on a little longer.

“You were crying in the backseat. We said we’d talk about this tomorrow when you were sobered up. Why don’t we stick to that plan?” he said after a moment.

“Why can’t you just tell me how you actually feel about me?”

“I don’t want to say something and have you not remember it.”

“You’re so annoying,” I grumbled.

He rolled his eyes, standing abruptly. I readied myself for him to leave. I knew I was being childish, but I was tired of keeping everything bottled up. I wouldn’t blame him for dropping me then and there.

But, he reached out a hand.

“Come on. Let’s go to bed.”

I looked up at him curiously, not yet taking his hand.

“You’re staying?”

He nodded. “Of course. I don’t want to leave you like this.”

I reached out, letting him help me up. We walked to my room, quietly undressing. I climbed into bed, watching him as he finally tugged off his pants, leaving him in just his undershirt and boxers. He shut my door, turned off the lights, and got under the covers with me.

He reached out for me under the sheets, tugging me against him. I sighed, resting my hand over his arm.

“I’m sorry,” I whispered.

“It’s okay. We’ll talk tomorrow.”

I woke up to a horrible headache, and a nauseous feeling that I was convinced would probably never ever go away. I was 100% certain I would never drink again ever in my life. It was a set rule that I made very quickly.

“How are you feeling?” Spencer asked.

My next rule was that nobody was ever allowed to speak to me again.

I broke it immediately.

“Like crap.”

“Here,” he said, a stupid smile in his voice from the one word.

I opened my eyes to see him offering me a couple of little pills and a glass of water. I took them, grateful, even though I wanted to tell him to leave me alone in the dark for the next few months. Thankfully, he let me lay in his arms until the medication kicked in and took the edge off of my stupid hangover. I was at least thankful we didn’t have work that day.

My head was buried in his chest when I felt his lips against the top of my head. He rubbed my back, coaxing me back to the real world. Unfortunately I’d been a mess in the real world the night prior and did not want to deal with the aftermath.

“Baby,” he said quietly. “Are you alright?”

“Mhm,” I hummed, leaning back a little. Just enough to see him. “Medicine helped.”

“Good,” he smiled. “I was a little worried. You drank a lot more than you usually do last night.”

“I know. I was a mess.”

He smirked. “A little bit.”

“I’m sorry,” I said, brushing hair out of his face. “I’m sorry we argued.”

He was quiet for a second, then perked up a little when his phone dinged.

“You hungry?”

“I really don’t want to go out, love.”

He laughed softly. “I know. I ordered in while you were laying down.”

“You’re a dream, Spencer Reid.”

We tumbled out of bed, Spencer insisting on preparing everything after he thanked the delivery person at the door. He made me sit at the table and wait for him, not allowing me to do anything at all until all of the food was laid out. He delighted in it.

“There,” he said, setting down our drink at last as he sat next to me. “And you tried saying I didn’t love you.”

My eyes widened, not expecting him to say anything, but especially not like that. He looked at me.

“What?” he questioned.

“That’s how you’re going to tell me?” I asked with a laugh.

“I thought you knew anyways,” he shrugged. “I do love you, you know?”

I felt heat in my cheeks at that, a smile on my face that I couldn’t control. He smiled right back at me, pressing a kiss to the back of my hand.

“Do you really think we’ll last past summer?” I asked, hoping he was feeling honest.

He sighed, the smallest grin on his face.

“It’d be a cruel end if we didn’t.”

[leclercsredhelmet]

Florida 𓆉 Logan Sargeant

A/N: Hi there! This is a little Logan blurb that popped into mind a few days ago and I decided to post it because it’s Miami GP week. Sorry if it’s short but I hope you enjoy it!

“What a crash, what a rush, fuck me up, Florida”

The summer sun was bright and beamed down. Your skin was hot to the touch but you didn’t mind it; the tan would be immaculate afterwards and it wasn’t like you weren’t used to the sun. Lying on the towel and a book held high above you, the waves crash softly and you let out a peaceful sigh.Droplets of cold water suddenly fall on your face, you scrunch your nose at the temperature.Placing the bookmark on the page you close the book and put it inside your bag. Fingers lower your sunglasses and you look up at Logan who was looking down at you.

Laughing he let a few more droplets of water fall on your face. You giggle, “Lo that’s our drinking water.” “I know I just wanted to get your attention for a bit,” he replies while tickling your nose. Smiling and rolling your eyes you turn around and sit up, Logan crouches down. “Get in the water with me, you’re almost done with the book anyways. Por favor” he pleads. Of course you couldn’t resist when he used your native language, obliging you to stand up.

Grinning Logan grabs your hand and breaks into a sprint forcing you to follow him. As your bare feet come into contact with the sand you can’t help but giggle and follow him. Without breaking contact you wade into the ocean and once deep enough you dive under the cold water, hand in hand you swim a short distance before resurfacing to catch air.

Logan gives you a look full of pure love and adoration, “What?” You ask him as you kick lightly, “Nothing,” he says smiling. “Why are you looking at me like that then?” You counter. He just swims towards you and grabs your waist, “You’re so gorgeous,” he says and you just laugh and your arms find their residence around his neck. You kiss him softly, his lips taste like sea salt. “I missed doing this with you,it’s my favorite thing, ” he said. Happily you hummed, “What about it?” You asked and Logan tucked a strand of hair behind your ear. “The sun, my girl, the waves. It’s all I need” he said and you laughed. The two of you swam for a while more before drying off. Packing up your things Logan carried the bags and grabbed your hand swinging it back and forth. You giggled, “Can I drive now Lo?” You asked. Logan smiled, “Of course baby.”

Logan tossed the keys and you caught them, twirling them around your finger you opened the door and climbed in. Turning the ignition you picked the music while Logan tossed the bags in the back and climbed in. With the top down you drive down the streets of Miami as you sing along. Florida by Taylor Swift came on and Logan raised the volume, smiling you both belted out the lyrics. Both you were out on the balcony looking out at the sunset, Logan had his arm around you and your head rested against his shoulder while your fingertips trace lazy patterns up and down his arm.

“Days like these make me want to not return to London,” you say and Logan hums in agreement. “We can come back for winter break and stay longer,” he says before kissing the top of your head. “I like that idea, let’s just stay here for a bit before getting on any more planes” you reply with a laugh. “Please, we need to stay in a single place for more than a week” Logan replies and you both let out a laugh as you continue to watch the sun go down and disappear among the buildings.

Traveling with Logan is something you thoroughly enjoy, but days like this when you can relax before his home race and have some alone time are precious. While neither of you can’t deny you love London, Florida will always be home to you two and any chance you get to come down here doesn’t go to waste.

(all photo credits go to the respective owners)

[enviedear]

Hiii !! How are you? Pleasure to meet you!

I saw your engineering major!Anakin post and when I tell you I immediately twirled around on my bed and started kicking my feet like a fucking teenage girl… I’m not joking.

This is a headcanon that has been following me ever since I entered the beautiful world of Anakin Skywalker. Seriously. I even have a one shot about lmaoooo

Could you please elaborate on that? I would love to hear your takes, discuss them and just thirst over him together! Because god lord, I’m so grateful to found someone who was the same interest on engineer Anakin. Also bonus points for college student Anakin because that’s just hot as fuck

Thank youuuu

Mina

i literally am obsessed over this concept thank you so much for indulging me! i centered it over him in college mostly because— i just... it does things to me.

also what if i said engineering major!anakin fic in the works...

a few nsfw themes in here so minors dni i will block you <3

he strikes me as the type of guy you'd see once on campus and then immediately try to find him on the university's social media accounts.

he wouldn't be fucking anywhere until you find the engineering college's Instagram account

it hasn't had a single post in two years but it's okay because you find one of him !!!

and the only picture of his face is so grainy, but he's in it and he looks so fucking hot at his computer and that's enough

also he's totally unapproachable

not that he's a dick or anything, he's just cussing out all his professors in his head and worried about his last materials exam

i think in his (very limited) spare time he'd be into either metalworking or cars... probably both

like i think he could fix almost any car-related issue without having to go to a shop

axel on his car goes out? yeah he's ordering the part and putting it on his damn self

his motor blows up? he's spending his summer rebuilding it while taking sixteen hours of summer classes

and if he does have to go to a shop, it's strictly because he doesn't have time and he most certainly will pop the hood and check their work

also i believe he'd like stick shift

literally won't buy a car unless it's manual

"what the fuck is the point of an automatic"

he totally also learns how to tune in his free time and everytime you hear a car speed by you on campus you just know it's his work

now, if you're lucky enough to catch his eye i truly believe he'd be so fucking consumed by you

he'd ask you to go everywhere with him; he needs to study in the library? he's asking you to come. he has to give a dissertation? he's begging you to come watch him. it's 3am and he just finished his statics project? he's calling you like, 'baby please come with me to get food. I'll buy you a treat.'

also the biggest and most clingy bf ever in the history of the world

will stop doing his work to come watch you play the sims and just hold you (also tells you how to build a proper house despite you bing like,, "ani... the fun part is making them get into trouble not making sure their roof is durable.")

also likes to be incentivized with you

"if i get an a on this next test will you let me bend you over the desk?"

or, "i'll study better if you let me taste you, please baby?"

star-student, no question.

and he's so fucking smart it's a bit annoying because he'll bitch and moan about how bad he's doing while getting on the dean's list every year

the way he explains what he's working on is hot as fuck

numbers make sense to his mind in ways you will never understand, but good lord is it nice to watch his smart little mouth move

type of man to take you on a date into the city and point out the shitty infrastructure

"for as much rain as we get you'd think these fucking idiots would have put more drains."

"that bridge is due to fall in less than ten years, what the fuck were they thinking."

he's just the smartest boy, and you make sure to tell him any chance you get not that he agrees but he'll always say, "thank you pretty girl"

[yelenabelovasbxtch]

Crush On An Archer PT.1

a/n: Hey! Omg long time no see! I kinda maybe lost interest in writing for a bit there but tbh I think I'm back. No promises because I don't want to promise and then break your hearts but also I realllyyyy enjoyed writing this and I hope you all enjoy reading it! Will def be making a part two in coming days so stay tuned. LMK if you want to be added to the taglist, I am going to put some tags of past taglists below just in case they are interested in reading :) ALSO! Special shout out to @scmg11 because their writing is honestly what made me wanna get back into it. So,,I hope you enjoy!

Kate X Fem!Reader

Concept: Reader has a crush on Kate (school/Uni setting) and she doesn't know how to tell her.

Warning: Cussing, mentions of smut, IM TRYING TO WRITE SLOW BURN BUT BEAR WITH ME ITS NEW!

Word Count: 2.7k

You’re a month into your summer vacation and things couldn’t be more…boring. You love and appreciate your parents dearly for putting out the money so that you could attend a prestigious school in New York with a kick ass archery team but does it ever suck to be this far from all your friends for four months. To make the situation work, your dad had to transfer jobs to another state that pulls in a little more money annually with slightly more affordable housing but that means you aren’t even near the people you grew up around. Rural Mississippi is a fairly big step from living in Boston. Boston at least had people, out here it’s like you’re lucky if you get to meet a neighbour because the land has us all so far apart. In all honesty, although it’s boring, you really have one specific reason for being so bummed out. Towards the end of your last semester, you got started getting closer with one of the girls a year younger on your team, Kate. Typically the older girls competed and practised together and the younger girls did the same. Although you two were only a year apart it’s just how things worked out, so you didn’t cross paths very often. However, one day you were walking home from class, stopped to get coffee and basically bumped into her. The meeting was really brief but it was enough to make you catch feelings almost instantly. 

Your interest in her grew as you followed her on Instagram and she followed back. Obviously you took a peak at her page and scrolled to the bottom laughing at the really cringey posts from 2015 she had still up. All you wanted to do was talk to her again but you didn’t know how, although she was a year younger than you she intimidated you so much. Her deep blue eyes were honestly enough to make you stutter whenever you had the chance to talk to her. A month had gone by already and you could not wait to get back to school so you could see her again. Luckily, coach has yearly “team-building” days before the season starts and they’re about half way through the summer so hopefully you can talk to her before then and maybe convince her to hang out when you come back to school. 

Over the next week or so you liked a few story posts that she’d upload every now and again but the day finally came where you felt like you could swipe up and respond to it…y’know…maybe spark a little conversation. 

“Damn Bishop, is this a new bow?” In response to a story post of her showing off some of her off season training. 

“Haha yeah it is, flips out and everything…it's really freakin’ cool.” She replied almost instantly and that made a giant warm smile come across your face. 

Shit– what do you say back? Your main goal was honestly to keep the convo going so you could subtly mention down the line hanging out with her. 

“Yeah that’s sick, wow I’d kill to try something like that out.”

“Well next time I see you, please by all means give it a shot” She replies back.

“Might just have to take you up on that. How’s your summer going anyways?”

“It’s alright, kind of boring though. All my friends from school move back home and I am working for my mom’s company over the summer so it all is just kind of dull. I miss going out and having fun. Wbu?”

“Yeah, I hear that. I am SO bored here. I would kill to fast forward to the fall, I miss being at school honestly. There’s only so much I can do by myself here during the summer.”

“Ugh right! I want it to be school again too but don’t get me wrong, I love the summer, the weather is great here recently and the nightlife is amazing too. I just have nobody to go with, you know.”

“Yeah I get it. Trust me, if I could be there to go out with you I would, there is definitely no nightlife here haha.”

Shit. That wasn’t too forward was it? She is taking a while to respond to you. She hasn’t even opened the message yet. 

*4 minutes later*

“Well, you’re going to be around for that team-building thing coach has us doing in a couple of weeks right?”

“Yeah, I should be.”

“Well, we can go out then if you want? Me and a few friends had plans but they’re all on the team and I’m sure they’d love to have you there too.”

“Yeah, that sounds great I’d love to!”

The conversation pretty much ended there and your contact with her was fairly limited, just a small comment here or there until you finally got to fly back to school for summer training. You settle back into the apartment you left a couple months ago, everything is still a mess where you left it but the kitchen and living room are even filthier since you are not around to clean up much after your roommates. You decided to wait until your team practice to talk to Kate about hanging out again. You didn’t want to come on too strong but also a small part of you feels like she forgot what she said months ago and you won’t end up seeing her, not outside of team stuff at least. 

You grabbed your gear and headed to the field where practice was being held. You saw some of your friends from last year and decided to catch up with them before coach pulled you all in to start practice. You were trying your best not to make it obvious but your eyes were tracking all around you looking for Kate but she was nowhere to be seen. 

*Whistle* “Okay team! Let’s bring it in. First, I just want to say thank you to everyone for making the effort to come back to campus for this, meeting I–”

“SORRY SORRY SORRY!” You hear the coach interrupted as footsteps are fast approaching the circle of archers. 

“Hi Kate.” Says coach.

“I am SO sorry. My driver was running late and then there was traffic because of a giant accident, I think there was some battle in the streets again, I don’t know, either way, my bad coach, won’t happen again…I promise.” She says with the most adorable grin that is absolutely saying she will be late again. 

“It’s alright Kate, it happens, I was just telling the team how thankful I am that everyone could make the trip back to campus for this.” Coach went on to talk about the drills you were doing for the day and man was it hard to not be in awe watching her. You tried your best not to stare all day because the last thing you wanted to do was make it obvious but fuck it felt impossible. The day came to an end and you packed up your gear, Kate was talking with the other seniors on the team as they were gathering their things and started to head out. You could feel your window closing to talk to her but interrupting her conversation with her friends and “inviting” yourself out with them just felt too weird and uncomfortable. If it wasn’t meant to be then it wasn’t meant to be but you would kill to be able to just spend an hour with her. 

You watched as she started to walk away towards the parking lot with her friends when all of a sudden she motioned for them to hold on a minute and she turned around and jogged over to you. 

“Hey y/n! Sorry we didn’t get to catch up much during practice, I saw your shooting though it’s looking good.” 

Yeah…your face is bright red. Control your shit. 

“Anyways, me and a couple friends are going out later tonight to a party that one of their friends is hosting. It’s like a Hawaiian beach summer nights themed type of party so if you have something like that to wear, that would be great.”

“Yeah, I might have something, I’ll take a look when I get home.” 

“Cool! I’ll text you the address once I get it off my friend and I’ll see you there?”

“Yeah, sounds good!” 

“Here, why don’t you put your number into my phone, I don’t like using DM’s that much.”

You take Kate’s phone out of her hand and fill out a contact for yourself, praying that she can’t hear your heart beating out of your chest. 

“Cool, thanks, I’ll send you a text in a bit.” She says with a smile and then runs off to re-join her friends. 

It seems silly sitting by your phone and literally watching the minutes tick by waiting for her to text you but that’s all  you could do. The anticipation felt like it was killing you. 

Your phone finally buzzed with a mystery number attached, “Hey y/n! It’s Kate. So…slight change of plans.”

Fuck. Is she bailing? Your eyes were glued on the three dots as she typed and you watched as they disappeared and reappeared. 

“Turns out the party is actually around the corner from my place so if you wanted to just come here first, we could pre-game and shit and then walk over together? My friends said they were going out to get their hair done so they’ll be running late.”

“Hey Kate, yeah no problem that works for me just send me your address and lmk what time you want me there.”

Kate dropped a pin of her location to you with the text attached telling you to come over at 7pm. 

7pm rolled around and you were already there outside but you kind of felt like you should wait another minute or two so you weren’t RIGHT on time. Or is it weird to be a minute late? But wouldn’t being on time be weirder? Whatever, you decided to just wait a minute and then knock on her door. 

Knocking on her door was the most nerve wracking thing you ever did, you were genuinely shitting bricks. 

“HEY! Come in come in!” Kate eagerly yells at you as she swings the door open. She’s wearing shorts with a bright purple bikini top and a button down Hawaiian shirt over top that doesn’t have a single button done up. Are you starring? Yes. Probably? Absolutely you are. 

“Make yourself at home, feel free to grab a drink from the fridge, my roommates are out of town and left all their alcohol so help yourself.” She said with a laugh. 

You heard that right? Her roommates are out of town. Just the two of you…you never know. 

You grabbed a drink from the fridge and took a seat on the couch next to her and yeah…the drink started going down faster than usual because of all the nerves in your stomach. The two of you made small talk for awhile but the conversation started flowing a little more naturally about 2 drinks in. Were you still kind of awkward as hell? Yeah…a little. But at least you warmed up to her a bit and weren’t acting so weird. About an hour later, her friends showed up and grabbed you guys to head over to the party. Honestly, things were going so well with just the two of you that you didn’t even want to go to this party but if it meant you got to spend more time with her then there you were. You got to the party and you honestly knew practically nobody. You weren’t exactly a social butterfly but Kate clearly was. She was talking to EVERYBODY. The boys at the party especially loved her. There was lots of laughing and flirting going on, you could feel the jealousy building but acting out was definitely not an option. You ended up socialising with a few of the other people at the party but for most of the night you stuck by Kate’s side, the two of you got pretty drunk together, pouring shots for one another and dancing in the pit of people to extremely loud music. There was a point where it felt like it was just you and her and nobody else was there while the music was blasting into your ears and the two of you were jumping together to the beat and singing out the lyrics to whatever song was on at the time. Kate got really close to you until some guy would come and pull her away in an attempt to make a move on her. Although, it never actually happened. Kate always ended up finding her way back to you. At one point she grabbed your hand and pulled you into the middle of the crowd as the two of you sang (screamed) the lyrics to “love story” into each other's faces. The party, as all do, started to simmer down. You guys actually ended up being some of the last people at the party, you stuck around to the point where the music was gone and most people were just sitting around chatting halfway sober. 

“Hey, I think I’m going to go home, I am super tired right now.” Kate says to you. 

“Okay, I’ll walk with you, I left my bag at your place anyways so I have to grab it.” 

“Right, sounds good.” 

Although the two of you had been singing and dancing for hours, she looked just as perfect as when you left and you were trying your hardest not to stare at her while the two of you were walking side-by-side. 

The walk back to her place was pretty quick, when the two of you got inside you went to grab your bag and get your things together. You were desperately trying to figure out what to say to her while you were organising your stuff. You didn’t want to come on too strong but you also want to make sure that she knows you had a good time…I guess just tell her exactly that?

“I had a really good time tonight, thanks again for inviting me.” You say as you’re leaning against the wall in her hallway. 

“Of course, anytime. And I did too. We should really hang out more when we come back to school.” She replies. 

Kate walks towards you and stops about a foot away leaning up against the doorframe to her bedroom. The hallway is super narrow and all you can think about is pinning her against the wall while you kiss down her neck and pull her tight by her waist. 

“Yeah I think so too. I guess I should probably head out.” You say as she looks at you with the softest eyes that you swore said “please stay”. You lingered for a second longer as the two of you were looking at each other, tired, kind of tipsy and on the verge of ripping each other's clothing off. All you wanted was for her to actually ask you to stay a little longer but before she had the chance you were already walking towards the door. 

“Have a good night y/n.” She says. “Text me when you get home safe.”

“I will. Sleep well Kate.” You reply as you turn to look at her with a smile and step out the front door. 

That goodbye felt different. It felt like there were still feelings in the air and lots that wanted to be said that wasn't. It felt like the perfect opportunity with nobody around after an amazing night together has passed but you regret none of it. Although you weren’t able to get a confirmation on whether or not Kate even likes women like you do, you knew there was definitely a type of tension between the two of you that she definitely noticed.

-- END OF PT 1 --

Taglist: @yelenaslyubov @youreatotalposer @jeyramarie @flosbelova @bridgecitybrad @justthis-stuff @chloe7076 @ailenepuff @ravenclawbitch426 @mellowladyangel @amcg0605-blog @kassies-take @yelenaswife1996 @wandanatchick @lilroachsworld @inluvwithfictionalwomen @x666hours @natashaswife4125 @onetruwhore @karmasgxrl @hopelesslyfallenninlove @setsuna1415 @swiftdazer @imobsessedwithmilfss @madamevirgo @louisprettybab @splatalia-jumpanova @jediluka @t00manyfand0ms

[eddiemunson-reader-shame]

A Freak and a Basket Case: Chapter Two: Made in Heaven

From the Delulu Writer: You’re going to realize that I don’t write short fics. This was straight from Google Docs mobile. I don’t know how long this is, so fuck it we ball. I’m hoping the generous Eddie POV helps break this aversion to longer fics.

Warnings: Flight of Icarus spoilers, references to drug use, minor suicide mention.

[Masterlist] - Chapter One - Chapter Two (You are Here) - [Latest]

***

The ’85-’86 academic year had to be his year.

It had to be.

It was his last shot. The last hoorah. He had just barely made the cutoff age for the academic year, and it was a miracle in itself that Principal Higgins had a modicum of decency to give him a break and let him even try to attend school again. He would be cutting it too close for comfort, and during the summer Eddie Munson had promised his uncle that he would get his head out of his ass this time around. No more screw ups. No more bullshit scams.

That promise was made in summer, when he was still able to sleep in, hotbox the feelings of shame and guilt away in his van, and gorge on junk food during unholy hours of the early morning before passing out until noon.

Now that he was being jolted awake by both the shrill sound of the radio alarm, and his uncle was kicking his mattress to wake him up at four thirty in the morning before he’d even gotten a good chance at sleep, Eddie was ready to throw in the fucking towel. Bitter thoughts swarmed in his mind.

Fuck it. Kick me out of school. See if I give two shits.

He was at the point where he was forgetting what was important. Last year was a year of losses. Almost losing the Hellfire Club to bullshit blackmail orchestrated by a sadistic son of a bitch of a principal that he did not fully trust. Ronnie had at least reached out via letter after a time, and she sent a few clipped sentences written with an electric typewriter all the way from New York whenever she had enough money left over from dorm expenses to buy postage stamps. But Dougie had gone nuclear. Never quite forgiving his friend for what he had almost undone.

And then there was Paige…

Eddie had been thinking of that mess nonstop the first day back for some reason, running late stuck behind a green Dodge with wood paneling while also battling the commuters during the clusterfuck that constituted rush hour in Hawkins, Indiana. He didn’t know why he was in such a hurry when that morning he’d been ready to give up all over again. Emotions were running high and low, he felt like he was trapped on a broken-down roller coaster falling apart on a shoddy side of the road carnival. Wanting to jump off, throw up, scream, and cry all at once as the reality of everything set in.

Eddie Munson had fucked everything up. Once in a lifetime opportunities lost to the ages in the year of 1984.

’86 had to be his year. Otherwise, he had nothing else left.

He was on his way to his locker when a string bean of a freshman wearing khakis and a button down polo from the GAP slammed into him from behind. Eddie immediately turned around to catch him before he hit the ground, asking the dazed boy if he was okay, confirming it was so, then looking towards the source. He assumed it was a jock, it always was, but he saw no suspicious hunter green letterman jackets lurking in the throng of students looking to get to their classes.

And then there was the gaggle of girls laughing and pointing, but he couldn’t see the object of their teasing because once he came within five feet of their gaggle they saw Eddie the Freak and bolted. So far the first day back was shaping up to be one of those weird days, whispers abound of some bitch of a basket case wandering around dressed for a cold front in August.

For obvious reasons, Eddie was intrigued. A bitch of a basket case was new. Especially ones wearing winter coats in summer when the humidity drowned you before the heat got to you. He doubted there was any merit to the rumors truth be told, but he had to see it for himself. He searched high and low, ditching his first period class to see if he could catch a glimpse. And then like an answer to his prayers he heard a siren call:

Metallica on cassette. Kill ‘Em All Album. Side 1. Approximately thirty nine minutes and six seconds into the album. Track number nine. Seek and Destroy.

Blasting so goddamned loud that from his distance it sounded faint, but he knew that whoever was listening to it directly would be deaf before their twenty-first birthday.

He saw you beelining for the front door, and instantly Eddie was fascinated by you. Sure enough you were all bundled up in your quilted Carhartt jacket like a blue collar worker braving a blizzard, gray skirt swishing as you power walked down the hall. The music beckoned to him, and the Black Sabbath patch on your blue backpack encouraged him to follow. Despite the stormy look on your face and the fuck off aura radiating from you, Eddie couldn’t help but allow the admiration to take over. He wasn’t intimidated, he wasn’t repulsed by your demeanor or appearance. Quite the contrary, Eddie could see something in the way your body communicated to the world:

You were a lost, pathetic little lamb trying to butt heads with everyone and everything, unaware that the world was fanged and scary and could spit you out in a malformed bolus should it desire.

And yet you still kept trying to fight back.

It was as if his body was moving of his own accord. His heart knew before his brain could logically process what was happening. A compulsion, his inner wild child, sent signals to his feet to quicken his pace as he raced after you, adrenaline coursing through him as he heard nothing but the steady pace of your gait matching the pulse of Seek and Destroy. Eddie didn’t stop until he was so close he was breathing in your scent, and in a sudden burst of confidence, both hands flashed out and snatched you by the backpack straps, pulling you in until you were flush against him. He yanked off your headphones, getting in close until his lips were grazing the shell of your ear.

“You’ve got bitchin’ taste in music there, princess. Metallica, right?”

Your scream cut off the last bit, and he held onto you like he was holding a wild stallion steady as you jumped nearly ten feet in the air. You were still pressed with your backpack to his chest, your own little chest heaving with fear.

“FUCK ME FREDDY!” You hollered. “You scared the shit out of me!”

Eddie laughed hard as he spun you around to face him, hands steadying your shoulders as he looked you in the eye with a large smile on his face.

“Sorry, sorry… Relax. Didn’t mean to scare you there. But hey, at least that got your attention, right?”

You hit the pause button on your Walkman and killed the music, looking up with a stormy and defiant expression. Eddie realized something when you looked at him: you had been hiding behind fear. Your eyes, minimized by the thick coke bottle lenses within the frames of your glasses, began to soften when you looked at him. He could see the tightly wound tension leave your body as you relaxed. Your facade was slipping. Before him was an individual army crawling through hell to survive.

“You uh… you heard my music huh?” you said quietly.

Eddie grinned, nodding enthusiastically.

“Oh yeah. From all the way down the hall. You like Metallica?” he asked.

“Uh huh…”

Eddie grinned at the shy answer. God… You were adorable.

“Hell yeah, good taste. Metallica is one of my favorites too.”

He noticed you weren’t much for eye contact. As much as he tried to meet your gaze you wouldn’t look right at him. It seemed as if you were closing yourself off from everyone, a purposeful and calculated act. Understandable if he was being honest. Your eyes were red rimmed and your nose was still dripping a little bit. The morning must not have been kind. For a moment he saw your vulnerability, and it endeared him to you.

“I’m Eddie, by the way.” he said gently, holding out his hand.

“Eddie?” You cocked your head to the side, sweet little face looking up at him as if expecting a trick.

“Yup.” he popped the consonant at the end, and he tried to give you a sweet disarming smile to show his sincerity, “That’s me, Eddie Munson.”

Gently, slowly, he felt your warm hand envelop his. He shook it just enough; not too firm of a handshake that he scared you off, but not so weak that it seemed he didn’t want to touch you. Because if the way his heart was racing at the feel of your warm palm against his was any indication, he very much did want to touch you, and he wanted to make sure you knew it.

A few seconds ticked by, and you finally told him your name after letting go of his hand. He noticed at first that you seemed to try saying something else, but you quickly corrected yourself. Eddie repeated your name slowly. It suited you. Very lovely. Silence for a beat, and then you gulped and spoke up to end the silence.

“My favorite person in the whole wide world is an Eddie…” you mumbled softly.

“Yeah? Who’s this other Eddie?” He raised an eyebrow, dimples showing with the big cheeser he had on his face as he noticed you still weren’t letting go of his hand.

“Eddie V-… Eddie Van Halen…” you stammered.

Eddie’s heart nearly stopped.

“No way, are you shitting me right now?” he demanded.

You shook your head.

“No… I’ve seen him live… he’s… he’s really cool.”

Inhale through the nose, hold for five seconds, exhale through the mouth so he didn’t start having a heart attack.

“How the hell did you end up going to one of those concerts?” He managed

“… my dad. Last year... He took me for an early birthday present…”

So you’ve got good taste in music, and you have a dad that takes you to concerts like Van Halen as an early birthday present…

“They were pit side. I got one of the shirts at my house.”

God dammit… No. There’s no way. There’s no way in the hell that you’re real…

“Which concert was it?” He croaks tentatively.

“The 1984 Tour… I saw them and Autograph play… in Albuquerque.”

He had to stop you right there.

“Okay wait hold on, your dad seriously took you out of Indiana all the way into the middle of nowhere in New Mexico just to see Van Halen for your birthday?! Where in hell do you even live where that seems like a feasible option?! That’s a twelve hour drive at least!”

“I used to live in New Mexico.” You said softly. “I’m not from here…”

Yeah, yeah of course you weren’t from Hawkins. There was no way in shit someone as cool as you, someone who had been pit side to Van fucking Halen, could be from Indiana. It almost gave him flashbacks to shades of his ex, and he nearly wanted to pull away from the conversation. Yet you were so sweet, so different, and he knew if he let you just become a random anecdote in the annals of time, Eddie would have thrown up for weeks and then jumped into traffic if he saw you being poached by someone else.

He pressed on. Heart racing and trying to maintain so that he didn’t spook you.

“Could have fooled me, you don’t have the accent for it.” Eddie said, leaning up against one of the tan lockers.

You hesitated and bit your lower lip, nodding and rocking side to side on your feet as you began to pluck at the loose threads of your jacket.

“… people here don’t like to hear it. So I cover it up…” you said.

“Good idea. Because honestly, it’s not worth the trouble… You’re in Hicksville now. Hawkins isn’t the first narrow minded white bread town, and it’s not going to be the last. Especially if you don’t fit in with their good ol’ boys club mold. Hell, I don’t even fit in it. I’m the biggest target for these bigoted assholes with my reputation. I don’t doubt you’ll get the same amount of bullshit I do.”

“You…?” You blinked, confusion written on your face, “Why would anyone make fun of you?”

Harsh laughter erupted from his throat, and he was so consumed by the absurdity of your question that he didn’t notice you flinch back. As if he was being crucified, Eddie held out his arms dramatically wide, his battle vest opening up to show off his Led Zeppelin baseball tee with a couple of holes in the fabric where the rivets on his jeans had been rubbing against them.

“Take a good look at The Freak of Hawkins High sugarplum. I’m a long haired satan worshiping metalhead cult leader. I play shitty Pantera and Slayer covers in a dive bar every week. I deal drugs to the preppy kids that have more money than sense. I lure innocents in to play my little satanic Dungeons and Dragons games, and then I hotbox it in my van afterwards with them. I’m a Munson, furthest thing from a good little schoolboy. No, no, we Munsons drop out of high school and go to jail young, and probably die young too.”

He went on and on, the word vomit not stopping. If he was going to be honest with himself, he knew this potential thing you two had was dead on arrival from the moment you opened your mouth and started talking about Van Halen. You were way out of his league, even by metalhead standards. From what he gathered, you had deep pockets, or at least your dad did if he was able to take you to shit like Van Halen concerts, something Eddie could only dream of. Everything about this was scary. It was scary and horrifying and the only thing he could think of doing was self sabotaging before he got too attached to you.

And then you frowned, still looking at the floor, until you spoke up, looking him directly in his eyes.

“That doesn’t make no sense… Sounds like a bunch of horseshit to me.” You said simply.

He watched it all happen so suddenly and he couldn’t look away. His large brown eyes widening and his heart turning cartwheels in his chest when he saw the little twinkles of light, the little pinpricks of stars beginning to glimmer in your eyes as you held direct eye contact with him. It wasn’t just that you were cute, because Jesus H. Christ you were the cutest thing he’d ever seen in his life. There were other things he’d never seen on anyone he’d dated: honest to god romance novel pining on your face, your soft lips parting slightly as if you wanted to speak but had lost the words. Your body moved in closer to him, and his own reciprocated purely on instinct, inviting you into his space.

Magnetism.

“None of it makes any sense does it?” He said, voice so low you had to lean further in to hear him, “But this is Hawkins. Judgemental jackanapes abound and people like you and me are lambasted for the crime of being different. Double for you I’m guessing, since you’re the new Hispanic kid in town.”

You nodded, looking hopefully at him.

“Let me guess, you had an easier time fitting in when you were in New Mexico, right?” He asked.

There was a brief hesitation as you gathered your thoughts.

“… Kind of. Maybe not towards the end, but there’s a lot of guys into heavy metal and leather and stuff. A lot of my tios- my uncles- are rockers. My brother likes it too.”

“Older or younger brother?” He asked.

“Older…”

“He get you into metal?” He grinned.

“Yeah.” You said, nodding, “He started me on Black Sabbath and Ozzy, my favorites other than Van Halen. My dad was the one who showed me Van Halen… oh, and Dio…”

“Rad… your dad and your brother got you set up with the best of the best. You have some of the most badass taste in music in all of Hawkins right now.” Eddie praised, and he’d wished he had complimented you sooner, because now that he saw you smile and giggle at his compliments he couldn’t get enough, “… and that’s a hell of a smile you’ve got there sweetheart. And a pretty laugh to match.”

“Quit it…” you giggled.

“Hell no, you can’t just tell me to quit it the second I give you a compliment. Gotta take the compliments where you get them.”

There was that smile, that goddamned cute giggle. The reaction he wanted. You covered up your mouth as you began to uncontrollably laugh, as if you’d taken a fat hit of reefer and had the permanent giggles. He loved people like you, who acted high and giggly without any external help. But he didn’t like how you were trying to hide those teeth from him. He wanted to see it. Wanted to see your smile and bask in the good feeling it gave him.

“Ah ah, none of that!” He scolded, holding up a finger, “You quit hiding that pretty face from me. What? You don’t want me to see it?”

“Nuh uh!” You giggled.

A devilish grin came over Eddie’s face.

“You gonna make me get forceful, sweetheart?”

“Noooooo…!” You whined, laughing harder as you shook your head quickly.

“Cut it out then. Put that damn hand down, lemme see that pretty face.”

Eddie began to wrestle your hand away from your face as you squealed in delight, shrinking in on yourself as he let out a mad giggle. He was enjoying this, enjoying the feeling of touching you and not having his face slapped or being punched in the stomach. You welcomed his touch, almost craved it, flying into a fit of hysterical laughter when he played dirty and grabbed your sides, tickling your soft plump abdomen so that you were forced to move your hands away from your face to shield your belly.

At the end of it, Eddie was breathless with laughter, holding your sides and swaying with you. Coming down from your fun, he saw your smile for the first time. No pearly whites. He could see the flaws and imperfect teeth as you smiled ear to ear.

Real recognizes real…

You are very much real. Very much so. You’re warm and soft and real underneath his fingertips.

“Princess,” he breaths.

You cock your head, swaying side to side and your grin never leaves your face.

“There we go.” He says softly, stroking your sides, “There’s that beautiful smile. See? Much better when you’re not hiding it behind your hands.”

Your eyes sparkled, starry eyes…

He’d only ever seen hungry eyes before. Only ever been desired like one desired a succulent steak or a rich slice of cake. Last year felt like he was giving up so many vital aspects of himself that he almost felt like an imposter when he kept trying to have a better year, a shot at a better life. Everyone had taken from him last year, gnawing at the bones of his corpse until there was nothing left.

Paige looked at me like she wanted to eat me…

But you…

You look at Eddie Munson as if you are awestruck by him, and as shocking as the feeling is, it makes him feel beautiful for a split second. He feels important. He feels valued, like he’s been the epitome of good alignment his whole life and the chaotic parts don’t matter. You look at him like you’re seeing a mythical hero. As if your village was burning to the ground all around you and he’d just come in the nick of time, clad in mithril armor, immune to the flames and devastation and ready to swoop you up to your feet.

But that defiance when you first faced him, the fire in you, it’s a strength, it’s a power he is drawn to. Realistically he knows if he were to swoop in it wouldn’t be to save you, it would be to help you pick up your own sword and fight alongside him.

He wanted that. He wanted someone to fight life’s battles alongside him.

He wanted that someone to be you.

[lukesvangelista]

𝐈 𝐖𝐀𝐒 𝐒𝐀𝐃 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐀𝐒𝐊𝐄𝐃 𝐈𝐓, 𝐀𝐒 𝐈 𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐃 𝐈𝐍 𝐀 𝐁𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 ᶜᵍ⁶¹

in which after months of distance and unspoken feelings, cutter asks you to marry him.

warnings: death, cemeteries

You and Cutter first met during your guys' first year at Boston college. It was a quiet fall afternoon, which you spent studying in a quaint coffee shop on campus. You were buried in your laptop, working on an essay for one of your classes, when Cutter, fresh off the ice from practice, accidentally bumped into your table, spilling some of his coffee. He apologized profusely, offering to buy you another drink and another cute shirt if the stain didn't come out. What started as a small accident turned into a conversation about the lives you lived at BC, and soon, you were meeting up regularly. Cutter was fascinated by your depth and drive, and you were charmed by his down to earth nature.

Almost two years later, Cutter's sitting across from you at his favorite café in Anaheim. While it wasn't the same as the coffee shop at BC, it had that same warm, cozy atmosphere that reminded him so much of you. It had been awhile since the two of you had seen each other, with him signing with the Ducks back in April and you staying at BC for some summer classes. But, the two of you were here now. While the city buzzed around you, your little corner felt like its own world.

Cutter grinned from ear to ear, his excitement radiating off every inch of his body, "So, how's everything been? It feels like forever since we've had a real chance to catch up."

You smiled softly at how excited he was, "It does, doesn't it? Life's been a bit hectic, but good. School's keeping me busy - statistics is kicking my ass, as always."

Cutter laughed, reminiscing on all the late nights he spent teaching you the material in that class, "You never were good at statistics."

You rolled your eyes, "Yeah, yeah, enough. But I've been trying to take things slower, enjoy the little moments more. How about you? How's Anaheim treating you, hot shot?"

He winced at the nickname, but truthfully, he was glad you used it. You had gifted it to him after one of the Beanpot games freshmen year, when you realized just how much talent he possessed on the ice. Ever since then, it was used in practically every conversation the two of you shared. Cutter quickly grew tired of it, but he hadn't heard it in so long that it brought him a comforting sense of familiarity, one that made him realize that you were truly right in front of him for the first time in months.

"Anaheim's been great," he smiled, "The team's looking good this season, but, you know, things can change. Some days it's tough to balance everything, but being out on the ice, that's where I feel like myself."

You nodded, "I get that. It's good to hear you're doing well, though. I've been keeping an eye on your games whenever I can. You've been killing it."

He smirked, never being one to decline a chance to tease you, "Oh yeah? You're my biggest fan now?"

You laughed, quickly matching his energy, "I've actually been watching for Leo. But you know, it's hard to ignore you when you're on the same line."

He grabbed his chest, feigning hurt. You rolled your eyes, giving him a playful shove, "Always have been, you know that."

Cutter's smile softened as he looked at you. There was an ease between the two of you, something that hadn't changed despite the time and distance, "I've missed this, you know? Just being able to sit with you, talk about life. Feels like I've been missing something lately."

You nodded softly, speaking quietly, "Yeah, I've missed it too. It's weird, right? How you don't realize how much someone means to you until you haven't seen them in awhile."

He nodded, his knuckles rapping softly against the table, "Yeah, exactly. I've been thinking about that a lot recently. About us. About how no matter how crazy life gets, this... you and me, it always feels like home."

You raised your eyebrow, curious as to what he was talking about. It wasn't that you didn't necessarily feel the same, but you wanted to know where he was coming from with that statement, "What do you mean?"

Cutter took a deep breath, suddenly feeling his heart race a little, "I guess I just realized that I don't want to keep missing you. I don't want to look back and wonder why I didn't make more time for us... for you."

You watched him closely, sensing the shift in his tone, the seriousness behind his words. He reached into his pocket, his voice steady but filled with emotion.

His heart pounded as he looked at you, and the boy tried to gather his thoughts. He knew that he was about to say something that would change everything, and he wanted nothing more than to get it right. He took a deep breath, his eyes softening as he began to speak.

His voice was low, but you could sense the sincerity in it, "Y/N... I've loved you for as long as I can remember. Ever since that day we met back at Boston College... do you remember? I spilled my coffee all over you. I had no clue who you were, but I was so flustered, apologizing over and over. And I just remember thinking, 'Man, this girl is something special'."

He chuckled lightly, the memory warming the moment between the two of you, "I don't even think you realized that I was staring at you the whole time. You were so caught up in the rush and finishing your essay, but all I could think was, 'I've gotta know her'. And then, when we finally started talking, everything just clicked. It wasn't just about how easy it was to be around you... it was the way you looked at the world, like there was always something more to discover. You challenged me. You made me want to be better."

You listened quietly, your eyes never leaving his. There was something different in his eyes, a depth that hadn't been there before.

Cutter's voice grew softer, more intense, "And over time, that feeling never went away. Through everything - hockey, all the travel, the time apart - you've always been this constant in my life. You're the one person who gets me, even when I don't say anything. It's like you see me, the real me, and you always have," he paused for a moment, his emotions thick in the air between you two, "I've been thinking a lot lately about how much time has passed. All the moments we've shared, all the moments we didn't because of everything else going on in our lives. And I don't want to go another day without telling you this. I don't want to go another day without you knowing that I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I've known it for a long time... that you're it for me. I've known it since that day on campus."

He pulled the ring from his pocket, holding it out in front of you, his voice steady but filled with emotion, "Will you marry me?"

Cutter held his breath as he watched you, the ring resting in his palm between you. His heart pounded in his chest, each second stretching into what felt like an eternity. He couldn't tell if the look in your eyes is surprise, joy, or something else entirely. The air between the two of you felt heavy, filled with unspoken emotions. His hand shook slightly, though he tried to keep it steady, his mind racing with what you might say. Doubts and hopes swirled together as he studied your face, searching for any sign of your answer. The silence felt deafening, and in that moment, it was as if the whole world had narrowed down to just this - you, him, and the question hanging in the air.

Finally, there was a break in the silence. But it wasn't from you.

"Cutter!" Trevor yelled, and suddenly, he was back to reality.

Cutter blinked as he realized where he was. He knelt beside your gravestone, his voice barely a whisper as he spoke to the engraved letters, the memories of you flooding his heart. The small ring still rested in his hand, a promise he never got the chance to make. His chest felt heavy, and the silence of the cemetery was both comforting and crushing.

Trevor rushed towards him, kneeling beside him gently, "You missed morning practice. Leo and I have been looking for you for hours."

Cutter didn't move at first, his hand tightening around the ring as he slowly looked up. Trevor's expression was soft, filled with the kind of worry reserved for close friends. Behind him, Leo hovered, unsure whether to come closer.

"Are you alright, man?"

Trevor's voice was quieter now, and his eyes flickered down to the gravestone, realization dawning on his face. He glanced back at Cutter, who still hadn't said a word, and the weight of the moment settled in around them. Cutter's gaze dropped back to the headstone, the pain fresh as ever.

"I just... I just needed to talk to her."

Trevor's heart ached for his friend as he stepped closer, placing a hand on the younger boy's shoulder. Cutter still didn't move, lost in the quiet conversation he had been having with you, even though you weren't there to answer.

Trevor and Leo shared a look, silently understanding that Cutter needed more time. Without saying another word, they both stepped back, giving him space. Trevor squeezed his shoulder once more before walking away, leading Leo toward the path that would lead the pair out of the cemetery. The quiet returned, and Cutter was alone again with you, the stillness pressing down at him.

He stared at your gravestone, his heart aching with everything left unsaid. The small ring in his hand felt heavier than ever, bearing the weight of the promise he never got to make. Slowly, Cutter lifted it to his lips, kissing it gently as a final gesture of love, a goodbye he never thought he'd have to give.

"I love you, Y/N/N. Always will."

His voice cracked with emotion as he knelt down, placing the ring carefully at the base of your headstone. He lingered for a moment, his hand resting on the cold stone, before finally standing up, wiping the tears from his eyes. With one last look, Cutter turned and walked away, leaving the ring behind as a piece of his heart that would always belong to you.

[rosefinch07]

Just imagine being jason in the highschool au

You become friends with a boarder kid on scholarship who wants to become a dentist

Batman seems to have invited blue beetle to gotham for a longer period of time than usual because he's always helping during situations

The guy has his first encounter with seeing a dead body when joker breaks out and blows up a few buildings

Dick fights with bruce that night so you go to your best friend's dorm for the night, he looks like he needs the hand holding more than you do

You cut his hair when he complains about it being too long and thick and an oil sink

You get a bruised cheek during sparring with blue beetle bc he finally landed a hit on you but he freaks out and says sorry a bunch

Your best friend then thinks you have an abusive boyfriend before you say it was just because you were practicing fighting with someone because he can apparently see through concealer that tricks everyone else

one day you fall in love with the guy when screwing around in the rain with him after school

You fight with bruce and go to his dorm, going to his dorm is becoming a pattern

You freak out because you think bruce is going to kick you out, your best friend bets otherwise

The stakes are getting him a pop

You get caught when leaving the dorm

Bruce gets called to pick you up

Your friend SPRINTS down to the office to wait with you, he's half dressed, you're still in your pjs and a hoodie you stole from him

Bruce arrives in all his brucie glory

You end up owing your friend a pop

You go to homecoming together as friends

Your best friend gets insanely drunk after one cup of punch because someone put in vodka into the punch bowl

You file away that he has a really inflamed back right at his spine between his shoulderblades, but he says he doesnt know the reason and you just focus on him being safe

You start patrolling with blue beetle

You fall even more in love with your friend by the day, you get a girlfriend to try and escape because you dont want to mess up your friendship you have with him

He is supportive of you, but something weird flickers in his eyes every now and then

On patrol you confide in blue beetle, he says to tell your girlfriend the truth and wishes you luck with your friend

Your friend almost gets kidnapped when going to the store because he went in his uniform

He says that batman saved him before changing the topic by asking to kiss you

You start dating that day

You ask bruce when you get back to the manor

Bruce backs him up even though there was no mention from the other kids at school that batman was there

You let it go

Freshman year turns to sophmore year

You keep hiding that you are robin and your boyfriend is also hiding something from you, but he assured you that it wasn't dangerous so you let him keep it private

Finals pass, he goes back to texas and his family like he does every summer

He visits, though, so you go on dates with him every chance you get

You want to find your birth mother

You look at leads

You find one and the night before your boyfriend's flight you go to his hotel room and say goodbye

You say "catch you on the flip side, don't miss me too much, yeah?" And he says "if you somehow find a way to die, i'm bringing you back to life just to kill you myself"

It was clearly meant to just be a joke

Joker

Warehouse

Bomb

You ended up finding a way to die anyways

You wake up in your grave, get picked up by the loa, and come back to gotham as red hood

Your (ex??) boyfriend is kneeling at your grave, the stupid capsule prize ring from a carnival on a necklace clasped in his hands that you have the match to

He's singing through silent tears, singing songs that you two used to sing together when doing karaoke

He's older now, he's clearly back in gotham for college, he has his gotham university student id clipped to his shirt

You dont know if you're welcome

You don't know how to begin to explain

So you dont try to

You just stare from the rooftops at the boyfriend you left behind

[scoops-aboy86]

chubby Steve fic idea:

Eddie and Steve take the kids to a fair and Steve gets excited for all the treats.

Thank you thank you thank you for this, because I've been struggling to figure out what I wanted to do with the final installment of the love spell AU fic and this has finally kicked my ass into gear. I'm still working on it, but here's a teaser... Just shy of 1k words.

(If anyone wants to be added to the tag list for when I post the complete chapter, comment here to let me know. 😊)

~

The kids have been clamoring to go to the county fair, so when August rolls around they load everyone up in Eddie’s van and the Wheeler’s station wagon and head out of town to the Roane County Fairgrounds. 

Steve meets them there, because he’s picked up some work helping with the rides set-up and has been at the fairgrounds since ass o’clock in the morning. Which conveniently means they’ll also have the BMW there at the end of the day, and Robin—who Steve has made a point of helping get her license—can drive it back with the kids. 

It also means that Steve gets to see his boyfriend’s eyes go wide when Eddie sees him for the first time today, takes in the way his shirt clings to his broad chest, dark with sweat down the front from the exertion of lifting and carrying all morning and cut down into a muscle tee at the sides, scars be damned. And unlike Eddie, who looks like he’s starting to pink under the sun already, Steve has been building up a healthy tan all summer parked out by the pool whenever he has down time; plenty of skin and new freckles to show off. 

The kids are at the head of the pack, so they don’t notice Robin elbowing Eddie until his mouth snaps shut and he raises hand to rub faux casually at his mouth before shooting her a betrayed look—and Steve just knows that Robin told him to stop drooling in public. 

Then Dustin slams in for a hug, catching Steve in the doughy middle and just about winding him. He gives an over-exaggerated wheeze and pretends to stagger. The motion helps him get Dustin into noogie, and from there the rising sophomore doesn’t stand a chance against all the muscle he still has from his jock days, regardless of the extra padding over them now. 

“Yield, I yield!” Dustin yelps. 

(“Why are they doing that?” El whispers loudly down to Max in her wheelchair. 

“It’s a dumb brother bonding activity,” Max informs her with a roll of her eyes. “Just observe, like animals at the zoo.”

El continues watching them with a perplexed furrow between her brows. “Will and Jonathan don’t do this.”

“That’s because they were raised by Joyce Byers. They’re slightly more evolved than your average teenage boy.”)

“Butthead,” Steve chuckles as he lets Dustin go. “Okay, I’ve got ride tickets to hand out. Once you use these up, if you want more you have to buy your own. Got it?” 

There’s a chorus to the effect of yes Steve, with varying amounts of eye-roll. Robin and Eddie have caught up by now, the latter circling around closer to him while he dolls out strips of tickets. A lively debate springs up almost immediately between Dustin, Mike, and Lucas over how to best maximize their haul, with Will patiently moderating every three-way tie to more subtly inject his own opinions into the discussion. Max gleefully heckles them about every ride that she can’t go on, with her legs still in casts and arms in braces, digging in with pithy little guilt trips that, as far as Steve can tell, aren’t crossing the line into actual upset or self-pity territory. (Something to keep an eye on.)

He’s glad they’re excited about the rides, and even the games that will definitely end up cutting into their pocket money by the time the day is done. But Steve is excited for something else entirely, and is antsy to get the show on the road. 

“Alright, that’s everybody. Now why don’t you all go enjoy the fair I’ve been slaving over, you little assholes. The Gravatron in particular is sick.”

That does the trick of getting rid of most of the crowd, El and Max break off in a slightly different direction, probably towards the Ferris wheel that El’s been practically vibrating to ride ever since someone explained what one was, having already settled a time and place to meet up with the rest of the group later. 

Robin takes her tickets with a bright thank you thank you thank you because she’s meeting up with Vickie soon for their first official date. She’s about to run off when Eddie stops her and hands over all but four of the tickets Steve had just given him. “Go knock her socks off, Robbie,” he says, and then messes up her hair. 

She flips him off, and Steve too when he snickers a, “Be safe, don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” before flitting off. Telling him with her expression and a dynamic eyebrow movement that she doesn’t think it would be a high bar to clear. Which… fair, honestly.

“And then there were two,” Eddie says, sidling up to Steve a grin and a raking glance that sends a trickle of anticipatory heat down his spine. “You ready, sweetheart?”

Before Steve can answer, his stomach does it for him with an audible grumble—not the first he’s experienced while working today, but definitely the loudest. He automatically rests a hand over it, kneading in a gentle massage to calm it down the way he’s been doing for a while, though it doesn’t seem to be helping now that he knows it’s time.

“Sounds like a yes to me,” Eddie murmurs, long lashes dipping as his eyes go subtly darker, then waves dramatically ahead. “Well, what are we waiting for, my liege? Let us partake of the festivities that await!”

He marches off, leaving Steve to follow with a laugh and shake of his head, utterly charmed by his total nerd of a boyfriend who is about to take very good care of him.

Tag list: @hotluncheddie @8em-em-em8 @anaibis @connected-dots @lawrencebshoggoth @zombiethingy

[pebblysand]

Hi can you do me a prompt? Cause I LOVE your writing! 💗

Ginny comes home from the 2014 quidditch world cup-reporting after a long long time away from harry and kids!

did it take me two and a half years to fill this prompt? yes. as evidence that no one should ever lose hope.

.

spring rolls, pizzas and curries

.

Tonight, after she gets home - after a smiling kiss hoisted up to the corner of his mouth, tippy toes and tight hugs to the kids - after a warm shower and a change of clothes, they'll order in.

It's the end of summer, that year. Leaves wilting in the trees; the wireless runs repetitive adverts for Hallowe'en decorations and this morning, when he headed into work, Harry noticed an irreversible sort of chill in the air; when Ginny comes down later, her hair wet over her shoulders, she'll be wearing a jumper. Lily and Al will soon hound her with questions, about the World Cup and about Namibia or about something else, and James will hurry into the kitchen too, just as she will pour herself a large glass of wine. He will be loud and lanky and almost-teenage. 'Where's food?' he'll ask, then.

And: 'Well, hello, Ronald,' she will laugh. Say.

Chinese, Indian or Italian - the kids will have their pick. It's a long-standing tradition in the Potter household since the dreadful winter of '09, when James had the flu and Lily was sniffling and Harry spent five days battling family germs on his own until Ginny came back from a work trip to save them all. He tiredly sunk into the couch next to her and: 'You should have stayed there,' he observed. Sighed like a headache. 'You're gonna catch it too.'

She shrugged. Smiled. Laid her head on his shoulder. He didn't have the heart to push her away. 'Let's order in, yeah?'

Harry will phone in. Everybody's favourites memorised like the faded lines at the back of his hand. There will be noise - James arguing with Al over the TV remote, Lily talking to herself, playing with her animal figurines and toy soldiers. She's built a whole ranch with Playmobils in her bedroom: fake horses and fake cowboys and fake fences - her magic makes it all move of its own accord - it's a bit of a nightmare.

The kind of nightmare Harry doesn't mind having.

They'll eat pizza on the couch or nems from clear plastic boxes scattered across the kitchen table, and the kids will fill Ginny in on everything she missed. Lily won't stop chatting and 'Mum' this and 'Mum' that, and James will say: 'Oh, will you shut up for once?' One of them - or both of them - will automatically throw back: 'James, don't talk to your sister like that.'

There will be second servings, thirds. Harry will smile and laugh, and feel like a weight lifted off his chest the moment she opened the front door just as easily as he will later clear the plates, with a simple wave of his wand. Ginny will go up to unpack, and he'll try to convince the kids to go to bed - with moderate success. James will try to convince him he needs a new broom, with no chance of success. Al will wandlessly tie his brother's shoelaces together before quietly retreating to his bedroom, a loud tumble ensuing with his victim falling flat on his face at the top of the staircase. He will deny having done any magic the next morning.

'Prove it,' he'll say.

Harry will want to smile (like a headache, too).

And, you know, he wonders - sure - but he's not jealous. Being jealous of his own kids would be fucking weird and, anyway, he's over it, now. He's even stopped being bitter. Ginny hasn't stopped being angry but there's something almost comforting about it, about her anger and her capacity for unrelenting outrage when they sent Petunia a card last Christmas and she wrote back: Please, take me off your mailing list.

'Cunt,' she said.

He winced or cringed, he's not sure. 'Yup.'

He's not jealous - not bitter - but he does wonder. He wonders and thinks of James. So, so tiny, in Ginny's belly. The first time he felt a kick against the tips of his fingers and held his breath - like, forever. And Ginny, who asked why he couldn't sleep, that night, watched him puff cigarette smoke out the window. 'I'm nervous,' he said.

'I'm the one giving birth,' she laughed.

'What kind of father do you think I'll be?'

He thinks of James and he thinks of Tom, sometimes. His palm against the skin of her stomach was sweaty - like warm, summer nights.

And, he looks at the kids and he wonders. What it would have been like. Growing up like that.

With them, you know?

He thinks of James again. Of James and of Albus and of Lily. He wonders if they know. That he's happy. That they're happy. That he's not jealous or bitter or angry. And, that love tastes like food. Like strawberries on Ginny's lips, and spring rolls, and pizzas and curries.

[husbandomail]

Congrats on the move! Hope you have a lovely dayyy!

May I be one of your first requests on the blog~? 🥹

Idk if you still do HCs or Scenarios or the like, but, whatever you have that’s fun for you -- Can i request for ygo zexal’s Black Mist 💜✨ With a confident but gentle nb implied reader? Who teaches Mist how to have their first lil kiss? >:3

this actually was one of the first new requests to land lmao, sorry for the wait!! typing this up on my phone so I hope the formatting behaves nfghdlk

"—c'mon now, focus."

Dark Mist huffs as you croon at him; he's heard you use that same tone on stray cats, and he's not sure he appreciates the implications. "I'm a free being," he scowls and crosses his arms. "If you'd like my attention, try to be more interesting than the cherry blossoms."

"Well, that's a bit of a tall order." Your voice is almost lost to the sounds of summer— Heartland may be heavily artificial, but the sakura trees in the park are very, very real. On one of your rare days off, you've found a nice shady spot to spread your blanket and unpack your lunch. It seems most of Heartland had the same idea, because you're surrounded by life; bugs and birds chirping from amidst the bright pink blossoms overhead, families with young children playfully kicking through gathered piles of fallen petals.

And in the middle of it all drifts Number 96, a sentient dark spot in the middle of the brightest day all year. You pat the soft fabric of your picnic blanket once more. "C'mon, come down here, with me."

Dark Mist rolls his eyes but floats down anyways. He scowls in the direction of a particularly loud child, and then at you when you laugh. He wrinkles his nose and sniffs dismissively. "I don't see why humans enjoy this so much."

You shrug, glancing from his face back to the flowers. "Oh, y'know. The miracles of life and nature. Limited-time events that only happen once a year. Fleeting moments of connection with strangers. And," a teasing smile ghosts across your face, "it's romantic."

The alien shudders at that, but he can't hide the way his glow flares, and you know you've caught his attention. "Romance," he makes a face as if the word is sour on his tongue. "What a strange thing to be such a driving force in humanity. One might even be compelled to call it—"

You roll your eyes and, before 96 can get lost in his superiority monologue, you lean over and press your mouth against his.

It takes a moment for Mist's mind to catch up with him; still getting used to a physical form, the sheer sensation of you is almost overwhelming, all his new senses flooded with a warmth and comfort he's never had the chance to experience in his mimicry of life. Even after you pull back, he's stiff and wide-eyed, his natural glow tinged a shade of pink you're not sure you've ever seen.

"D'ya get it now, hmm?"

Your voice jolts him out of his daze, and Dark Mist quickly paints another scowl across his flustered face. "Of course not," he huffs. "That wasn't nearly enough experience to form a cohesive opinion."

"Oh?" You playfully flutter your lashes in his direction. "Are you saying we need to try that whole thing again?"

[shesasimp]

Coral Island- Semeru- Fluffy Oneshot- Waterfall Kiss

It was no secret to Semeru that I loved the waterfall on the farm. The lookout, the view of the beautiful waves it created and the feel of the cool water on my skin when I lounged away on a hot day made the spot all the more desirable for me to use. 

What did turn out to be a secret, was how much Semeru enjoyed watching me at this spot.

I was laying with my head against the wooden side of the pool, enjoying this hot summer day. It has been almost 9 months since Semeru and I enjoyed our fall wedding at the underwater coliseum, and we’ve fallen into a good routine living together at the farm. I was so worried he would regret giving up the soldier's life for me, but he has taken to the farm better than I expected. For a man who has lived such a solitary life, he was the perfect partner at home. I think he truly desired someone to share his life with, but never found that person. Well, before I found him, that is. And I’ve never been more grateful to have someone around.

“Hey there, my love.” I felt his hands on my shoulder, just as his sweet whisper met my ears. I peeked one eye open to see this beautiful man above me. The sun shining high behind his head casted a shadow across his gorgeous face, but I could still make out the loving look behind his eyes. I’ll never get tired of seeing that look. “Hey, Baby. Care to join me?” I lifted my right leg out of the water, pointing my toes as a gesture for him to hop in. He gave a small chuckle before slowly lifting his shirt above his head, his blue shorts following shortly after. I could stare at those washboard abs all day, but I turned my head to face away before he could catch me staring. I don’t want him to think I’m some sort of pervert. Luckily, he slid into the water right beside me without mentioning if he noticed my stare or not.

“I had a feeling I’d find you here. Have you been out here long?” He grabbed my leg, dragging it over to his lap as he started to rub my feet. He has a weird obsession with them. Not in a kinky sort of way, but more like a cute curiosity. He has gotten really good at using his own legs, and I’ve caught him playing with his leg muscles a few times, but he also loves to wiggle my toes and massage my calves after a long day of farming. I find his eagerness to learn more and more intriguing every day. 

“I’ve only been out here for about an hour. Started to blister my hands weeding around the chicken pen.” 

“Oh, I’m sorry I wasn’t here to help you this morning. I’ll take over the rest of the chores today, so you can just relax and take it easy.” He looked into my eyes, gently brushing my bangs back behind my ear. “It makes me happy to be able to visit the kingdom still, but the cost of not getting to wake up next to you is a high price to pay.” His words brought a blush to my cheeks and a smile to my lips. He’s such a hopeless romantic, and I don't even think he knows it. 

“Don’t you miss the ocean?” He thought about my question, gently rubbing my foot under the water as he gave it some thought.

“I miss the ocean and the serenity of it. But I’ve found a  different kind of peace here, with you, on our farm.” He gave me his closed eye smile. The cuteness of his actions would have me giggling and kicking my feet if he wasn’t sitting right in front of me. I just leaned my head on his shoulder to hide the blush.

“I’m glad. I hope I can be enough for you.” I felt him pause on my foot while the other hand reached up to lift my chin. He gently placed his index finger under my chin and his thumb against my lip, using them to lift my face towards him. He rubbed my lip with his thumb, while he looked deeply into my eyes. 

“You’ll always be enough for me, Darling.” He leaned forward, but didn’t connect our lips quite yet. He wanted to give me a chance to ask him for a kiss first.

“Kiss me, won’t you?” I let out in a breathless whisper. He gave me a smirk that left me even more breathless. 

“I’ve been waiting for you to ask! Come closer.” He brought his face down, finally connecting our lips. The instant heat it sent through me ran from my head, all the way to my toes- causing them to curl on instinct. I wrapped my arms around his neck, bringing him even closer as we got lost in the passion of the kiss. Before things could go too far, we pulled away. We were both red in the face, slightly panting as we stared into eachothers eyes. Semeru looked down at my lips, before meeting my gaze once more.

“You know,” He started. “I take it back. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to get enough of this.”

[lemonhoarddragoness]

Wayne & Benny headcanon: Grits, Fish, and Breakfast

Just a small headcanon I ended up thinking wayyyy too much about after seeing a post on twitter from @feral-jackdaw about Wayne eating at Benny's Burgers and talking with @/The_KingKas (twitter) about it. Forewarning it's about to get v sad folks.

Wayne isn’t from Hawkins, but he used to drive through it often when he had a trucking gig and a rig. 

Benny’s Burgers, like most diners right off the highway, is like a lamp on the side of an old farmhouse in the deep of summer and it draws in the truck drivers like flies - Wayne is no exception. 

Over breakfast one day, Wayne mentions his nephew, Eddie, and how he’s been asked to take him on since his father (Wayne’s idiot brother) is headed for a prison cell. He’s a good kid, but Wayne doesn’t know how he’s going to manage it while also being on the road all the time. 

‘Move here,’ Benny tells him, like it's as easy as drying off the dishes, ‘Quiet, outta trouble. Good jobs around.’ ‘No family though,’ Wayne counters, but he doesn’t argue when Benny responds back, ‘Doesn’t sound like they’re doing you much good anyhow.’

Wayne sells his trucking rig to purchase a beat up mobile home in Forest Hills trailer park and hauls his scrawny, baldheaded nephew up to Hawkins, Indiana, from the south. They don’t know anyone but Benny, but the union jobs ‘round here pay good and they’ve got one another, so Wayne tells him, ‘They’ll be alright.’

When Wayne pulls into the diner’s parking lot after getting off work, it’s empty more often than not, but the smoke from the roof and the smells that come with it let him know the building’s open for business. Scuffing his boots outside, he trudges into the diner and finds his usual seat vacant and waiting. 

‘Grub’ll be ready in five,’ Benny grunts into the griddle, Wayne’s food already started long before he arrived. Benny knew he’d be here, because he’s here nearly every day and has been for almost a decade now.

A cup of joe is poured and Wayne takes it, the din of sleep deprivation and hunger enveloping any notion of conversation. Benny doesn’t mind though, never has, and as he prepares Wayne’s breakfast on a plate he tells him about what he’s read in the newspaper this morning and how the game went that Wayne missed while he was at work. Wayne doesn’t say anything until he’s at least gotten a cup and half his breakfast down. 

Once he’s more lively, they talk about things around town, trade fishing lures wrapped in newspaper across the counter like its an illegal smuggling operation, discuss their next weekend out on the lake, and how Benny might cook a catch for breakfast. 

Wayne always shows off Eddie’s newest yearbook photo when it comes out and tells Benny what a good kid he is, no matter what phase he’s going through. 

Before he heads home, Benny often gives him something for Eddie to eat, to keep the growing boy going. 

‘Don’t do nothing stupid now,’ Benny’ll tell Wayne as he gathers up his things to head back to the mobile home. It’s his way of telling him to drive safe, tired as he is still. ‘Coffee’s kicking me in the teeth right ‘bout now. No chance of that.’

In middle school and early high school, Eddie busses tables at the dinner for a few bucks every now and again. He’s awkward at it and doesn’t much like it, but Benny is a family friend and it’s like helping out, but he gets money in return. Structured employment isn’t for Eddie, but it helps him buy his first guitar. 

Benny lets the boys play one gig, their first and only in Hawkins at the diner. It’s a Wednesday evening, hardly anyone around, and they’re terrible, but it’s the beginning, and to Eddie, it’s everything.

The morning Wayne rolls up the dusty dirt road to the diner to find the parking lot buzzing with police officers and emergency vehicles, the lights bounce off the windowpanes of the diner like a firework display. There’s no smoke coming from the roof of the diner, and no smell of cooking food or percolating brew. 

As the ambulance ambles slowly by his beat up old truck, Wayne knows: Benny’s gone.

Jocks settle into the remains of the diner with an authority and an impunity that makes Eddie’s stomach roll. They claim it as their private lounge, rearranging things to their liking and defacing it with their own juvenile interests. 

Eddie breaks into the diner one night, a little high and little drunk, and he ransacks the bullies' lair, tossing their things in an attempt to break and disperse them. He pulls old pictures off the walls.

Hopper pulls Eddie out of the building and throws him in his squad car - he wants Eddie to explain himself, but he won’t say anything. ‘Ought to keep him in a jail cell and book him’, Eddie’s told, but instead the sheriff calls Wayne.

It’s the closest to a righteous anger that Wayne’s ever felt toward his nephew - hearing the boy trashed Benny’s old place - but he comes down to the station to collect him anyhow. 

That disappointed anger melts when he looks at Eddie through the bars of the holding cell and sees the distraught and dejected teen before him. Eddie doesn’t say much, but instead reaches into his vest and pulls out a tattered and slightly mangled photo which he passes through the bars, ‘I thought you should have this’.

Two men, Benny and Wayne, stand side by side, their hands clasping the shoulders of a young kid - barely fourteen years of age, whose head is drowning in a tackle-covered fisherman’s hat and holding onto a flopping fish for dear life.

Wayne can’t hug him tight enough.

When the local newspaper posted Benny Hammond’s obituary, Wayne sat at his coffee table and cut it out, carefully storing it away in his lockbox, thinking solemnly to himself how that was the last young man he would have to see buried in Hawkins, Indiana, and what a shame this loss was. 

He never would have guessed only three years later he’d be cutting out another obituary from the same newspaper; this one for his nephew.

The cutout lays atop Benny’s in the lockbox as Wayne packs his things and takes stock of this once seemingly quiet, little town off the highway.