#Kyle: I thought we had something special...

[junespriince]

Dick, writing: how the hell you spell show-fer?

Wally, reading: Chauffeur, C-h-a-u-f-f-e-u-r.

Dick, offended: OoooOO *in a southern accent, even tho Wally is midwestern* Fancy pants rich McGee over here!

Dick, flipped him off: fuck you.

Wally, gasp dramatically:

Dick, walking away: spelling bee ass...

Kyle, gasp, hand on chest: You're cheating on me!? With him!!

[novemberheart]

{overview} you and the boys decide where to go on leave. You sit in on a training session and Simon attempts to make further amends

{warnings} fem reader, a/b/o dynamics, poly 141, mentions of being horny, slight sexual innuendos

Chapter 18 <- Chapter 19 -> Chapter 20

“Beach?”

“Nah, not too fond of it.”

“Who doesn't like the beach, mate?”

“I’ll go for you peaches.”

“I don't want to go if you don't want to go,” you sighed.

“The beaches here aren't even nice, Bon. Could save a beach trip for the Bahamas or the Mediterranean or something. How about mountains?”

“That's boring.”

“Not asking you city boy.”

“It's almost summer. It'll probably be pretty,” you commented.

“See, our girl likes it. That's all that matters.”

“Lovie, I mean this in the nicest way possible. You don't know what's good for you when it comes to vacation.”

You rolled your eyes as Johnny and Kyle continued to bicker. You still weren't clear if they were putting this much thought into it because they wanted to make it special for you or because they wanted to make it special for them. Either way, you would be a recipient.

“I know!” an idea suddenly popped into your head. They stopped immediately turning their attention to you. John had pointed that out to you a few weeks ago. They had been arguing over some weird fact about koalas when you sniffled. They stopped immediately thinking they had upset you, not taking into account that you were still trying to adjust to the spring air. Ever since then, it's been your little superpower. “What if all of you pick a place, write it down on a piece of paper and we put it into a hat and shake it?” you beamed.

“Not bad, Bonnie.”

“Just can't use Caps hat, it'll ruin the paper.”

“Like yours is any better.”

“You been avoiding me?” you jumped. Simon grunted, skidding his back against the wall so he was sitting on the floor, next to you. He had too much leg for his own good.

“Not purposefully,” you assured, scooting back. “We just haven’t had much luck with our conversations lately.

“Meaning”……

“We’ve been fighting Simon,” you reminded.

“And whose fault is that?”

“Yours. For being moody.”

“I think you're the moody one.”

“You know��- you cut yourself off. “See,” you grumbled. He chuckled and you quickly caught that he had been pushing your buttons.

“I think you're still a bit upset over what I said that night- the night you overheard me and Johnny talking,” he suggested. “I wouldn't blame you if you were, pup. I still think about it too.”

You hadn’t thought about it like that. His words have been in the back of your mind since it happened. It made the other things he had done or said to you since then seem……fake.

“Do you think I'm useless? Really not worth the trouble all of you are putting in?” You thought about the most recent fight with Simon. He had gotten onto you about causing trouble, again. Maybe he was right. It wasn't like you had improved their life drastically. Sure, they reaped the benefits of your healing, but they could get that with any omega. One that was easy. One that didn't seem to be constantly fucking up.

“Easy, pup,” Simon brought you back down to earth. Even outside the smell of bitter lemons seeped through his mask. “Want the truth?”

You quickly shook your head.

“I want what won't make me cry,” you pleaded.

“You are a lot of work,” Simon admitted. You turned your head away from him. “But good things never come easy to me.”

You gasped your head whipping around.

“Oh, Simon,” you nearly whimpered. You leaned closer to him and wrapped your arms around him as best you could, your head resting against his thigh. “That's the most romantic thing”-

“Let's stop right there.”

You reached your hand into one of John’s beanies, gripping on to a tiny piece of paper and pulling it out.

Scotland

“Johnny, you can't just write Scotland,” you whined. “That's a whole country.”

The others rolled their eyes a little disappointed that their paper hadn't been picked- but the sparkle in Johnny's eyes quickly changed that.

“It's a surprise, Hen. Can't have you lookin’ it up before we get there,” he smiled. Every time he smiled at you like that you just wanted to kiss him. It wasn't fair. You pulled the rest of the papers out taking a peek at each of them.

Cornwall

York

London

You knew Gaz was London, but you couldn't figure out who was who for the other two.

“Where’s Cornwall?” you questioned.

“It's on the beach,” Simon explained. “Said you've never been and it's one of the nicer ones.”

“Well now I feel bad,” Johnny huffed. You giggled, wrapping your arms around his bicep.

“I can't wait to see Scotland,” you assured, making the glint reappear in his eyes. He bent down planting a quick kiss against your lips. “Thank you, Simon. I still want to go one day. And to London and to York,” you added quickly.

“No reason we can't get to all of them,” John smiled, running a hand down your back. “Time to get back to business,” John commanded. They all moved from the stools, grabbing some drinks, snacks and using the bathroom one last time. You smiled, pulling his beanie on your head. It was too stretched out but you didn't care. “Now that's a sight,” John grumbled, rolling the edges up so he could see your eyes. “We have one of the gyms to ourselves today. There's a yoga ball,” he hinted, causing your eyes to go wide.

“I can come?” you beamed.

“Course, only if you keep the hat on,” he whispered, pressing a kiss against your neck. You erupted in a purr before you could stop yourself, jumping at the noise. “Go put some comfy clothes on,” he chuckled at your reaction but found it challenging to pull himself away from you. Especially after you purred so pretty for him.

You had been occupying yourself on the high-tech bicycle when Johnny and Kyle sparring on the mat caught your attention. Now it was all you could focus on. John had called it sparring, but it looked like grinding to you.

You could take a guess as to why they got this room to themselves.

Johnny hissed suddenly, pulling his hand away.

“Bastard bit me,” he growled.

“You stuck your hand in my mouth, mate. That's not in any handbook anywhere,” Kyle smirked. You loved when Kyle was cocky. His normally melted eyes transformed into sharp ones, his lips pursed ever so slightly like he already knew he had won. Johnny sprang forward slamming the other beta onto the mat, the sound making you jump. It didn't seem to have the slightest effect on Kyle, who quickly gripped Johnny's shirt, and used his leg to switch the position so he was on top.

This continued for a few turns neither one of them able to get complete control over the other.

“Think they need someone to show them how it's done?” Simon asked, eyeing John up and down.

“What do you think, pretty girl?” John hummed. Your mouth went dry at the thought.

“That's a good idea…I think I could benefit from a demonstration too,” you faltered, making both of them chuckle.

“Can’t say no to that, ay?” John smiled, clapping his hands. Johnny and Kyle rolled away from each other, low growls still rumbling in their chest. “Cool it. Like feral dogs chasin’ their tails. I know both of you wanted to win to look good to our girl. So next time, win,” he said, patting both of them on the shoulder.

Kyle and Johnny hid their smiles bounding over to where you were. Johnny grabbed you off the bike, sitting down with you so you were between his legs.

“This’ll be good, babygirl,” Kyle chuckled, knowing something you definitely didn't. Johnny squeezed you with his legs, resting back on his hands. You weren't sure how much more you could handle, your mind still reeling from John’s “our girl” comment.

Holy shit.

Your hands gripped onto Johnny’s shorts, the only thing keeping you from floating off into the atmosphere. You had to move to sit on your knees, hoping to catch some distance so you wouldn't leave a wet spot on the floor. It felt cruel actually, making you watch something like this.

Four hundred plus pounds of raw muscle and experience going at it. Arms and legs tangled, the floor practically shaking as they threw each other to the ground. It was violent not in the way Johnny and Kyles had been. If you didn't know any better you would think they were trying to kill each other. Simon groaned as a particularly hard jab was thrown at him. You put a hand against your lips to keep from whimpering at the sound.

God, you were pathetic.

You didn't hide it very well, the sound spurring both of them on. They grunted and growled things in each other's ears, too quiet for you to hear.

“Smell that?” John taunted, his beard scratching against Simon’s mask.

“Don't get too excited, old man. She's all warm for me,” Simon growled. The smell of melted peaches and vanilla in the air was mouth-watering, it vibrated through their bodies as the prehistoric parts of their brains roll over. Their mate was in the room, one that needed providing and protecting. What better way to prove they could be that for you than to beat each other?

Besides it making you needy, it was impressive to watch. Simon’s moves were calculating, he put a lot of thought behind them. John’s moves seemed natural, like this was just a warm-up for him. It also didn't help that they seemed to know what the other was going to do before they did it.

“They’re showing off for you,” Johnny whispered, his nose tickling you behind your ear. The thought made you clench. You weren't sure who was winning, every time one pulled ahead the other one quickly caught up and beat them.

“Does it normally last this long?” You hummed, looking over at Kyle.

“Oh, lovie,” Kyle sighed. “These two can go all night.”

You didn't bother holding back a whimper that time.

John had Simon right where he wanted him. They had thrown each other off the mat, John sandwiching Simon between him and the wall, his arm bent backward in a headlock. Simon tried to get out of it but there was no place to move. The experienced alpha reminding him of his mastery. John knew Simon would never tap out, especially with you there, but all four men knew who won.

“Nice work, Cap!” Kyle and Johnny cheered, clapping. You quickly joined in, although you were too busy watching their chest heave up and down to really care who won.

“Rematch, later?” Simon questioned, patting his alpha on the back. There was only one person in the world he wouldn't mind losing to.

“How about next month,” John chuckled.

“Alright, let's get the pup peeled off the floor and get some food in her,” Simon chuckled, taking in your flushed appearance.

“I don't think she's here with us,” John whispered, looking at your spaced-out eyes.

“I am. Just trying to commit everything to memory,” you whispered, eyes still trained on their twitching muscles.

You yawned your eyes coming up to rub at your eye.

“My turn,” Kyle said, tossing a look at Johnny. The other beta huffed, sliding even further down the couch. Kyle put his arms under your tired frame, carrying you bridal style towards your bedroom.

“I can walk,” you murmured, cuddling your head into his neck.

“What's the fun in that?” He smiled. You thought he was going to your room but he went past it into John’s room. A happy rumble leaves you as the smell of campfire and tobacco hits you. John had been careful to preserve your nest, hoping it would encourage you to wander into his bed. He was lying in bed already, your eyes widening once you realized he was without a shirt. The wide expansion of his chest was covered in dark curly hair that trailed all the way down below the sheets. His body was bulky and strong in his chest and arms but narrowed down around his waist. He was covered in a layer of fat but one slightest movement had his muscles peeking through his skin. Your nails itched to dig into his strong shoulders. His arms flexed as he took you from Kyle, resting you against the part of him you were just drooling over.

You purred gently, pressing yourself against him. The hair was a bit coarser than you thought it would be, but you didn't mind. John matched your purr, his hands smoothing up and down your sides, carefully sliding under your shirt.

“So soft,” he murmured, against your head. His large hands took up your whole back, one resting on your upper the other resting on your lower. You couldn't help but shiver at the callous’ on his fingertips. His palms were a bit smoother- he must wear gloves- but not by much. That was a theme with all of them. Kyle moved one of the walls of your nest, hoping you wouldn't be too upset, and crawled right in next to John. You smiled, your hand already darting out to grip his shirt. One of John's hands left you, to worm its way under Kyle, tugging him even closer. Kyle rested his head on the alpha's shoulder, his hand taking a place on your back as well. Kyle had been fortunate enough to feel your softness many times, but it always made his chest rumble.

Your warming scent reminded John of something he had been meaning to ask you.

“Sweetheart,” he started. “Your heats comin’ up in a few weeks.” around two to be exact. He faltered when he felt you and Kyle stiffen. “Don’t need to discuss it, just wanted you to know I hadn't forgotten. It's all your choice,” he assured, causing you to relax. You said nothing but planted a kiss against his cheek, curling back up against him.

“You take anymore time, we'll leave you here,” Simon shouted from the couch.

“Could help her pack, mate,” Kyle shot him a look, heading towards your room to help.

“Am I always the asshole?” Simon grunted, kicking his feet on the coffee table.

“That's very good self-awareness, Simon,” John chuckled, moving so he was standing in your doorway. John whistled at you causing Simon's head to snap to your door. “You’ll be breakin’ necks, sweetheart,” the alpha chuckled.

Johnny heard from the kitchen weaseling his way into your room. He could hear the Scotsman swallow harshly.

“Deadly, Bonnie, deadly,” he tsked his eyes wracking over your form. You weren’t sure what the big deal was, it was just a skirt with a sweater. Maybe it was the tights you had on underneath? You rolled your eyes beginning to pick up your bag, and all three of them quickly swooped in to grab it. Kyle won, smirking as he flung the duffel over his shoulder.

“See you in the car,” Kyle brushed the two members of his pack off, heading out the door.

“Are you sure no one is going to come here while we’re away?” you asked hesitantly.

“I’m sure, pretty girl. Besides, things like that are for me and Simon to worry about, not you.”

“I would recommend bringing all your undies though, Bon. Wouldn't want anything happening to those,” Johnny said- a little too seriously.

“I think my boring white undies will be fine Johnny. Besides I feel like they’re more at risk if they come with us,” you chuckled.

Hello everyone! Hope you enjoyed this next installment! Chapter 20 (omg) will be posted tomorrow!!!! 🧡

[rainybubbles]

"Dance with me" + 141 x reader

Gaz, Soap, Ghost, Price

(Sorry in advance for my mistakes, English is not my mother tongue. So sorry if it's badly written or if they're OOC.)

GAZ :

— Congratulations, Garrick, you whispered.

He barely heard you. Honestly, you doubted he even knew your name. Soldiers, especially those in special forces, rarely paid attention to the cooks unless they wanted an extra helping. At those times, flattery became almost a routine game.

But Kyle… Kyle had always been different.  

He was the only one who gave you a genuine smile when you served him. The only one who would chat with you, arrive early to help in the kitchen, and stay late to clean up.

Kyle had been there.  

In that endless cycle of meals, dawns, and dusks, he remained. So at the medal ceremony, you had hoped, just for once, to step into the light with him, to talk without the barrier of those ridiculous hairnets.

But Kyle was standing there, a companion on his arm, and suddenly, you felt utterly foolish.  

Where you had hoped for a slow dance, it turned out you were just tap-dancing alone.

So, after everyone else had offered their congratulations, you added your own, feeling a wave of shame wash over you, making you sweat. That knot in your stomach tightened as the lights grew blinding, every gaze seemed to pierce through you, and everything felt absurd.

You felt absurd.  

With that stupid outfit that was too tight, a tie that was too blue, shoes that were too shiny. Anxiety crept in and took hold, forcing you into an unwilling dance. Desperately, you tried to calm yourself, to find an escape, a place with fewer people. The door seemed so far away. Your vision blurred. And then…

Fresh air hit you.  

Finally outside, you sat down. Everything was swirling inside you. You wanted to cry. But you couldn’t even manage that, as your boss appeared.

— The caterer is late; get in the kitchen, we can’t ruin the evening.

So you resumed your dance: uniform, hairnet, apron, safety shoes. What you thought was a duet was clearly just a solo.  

Peeling carrots and chopping vegetables, you listened to the barked orders with the other kitchen staff.

The food was enough to satisfy everyone’s patience, and the caterer eventually arrived.

Alone, you scrubbed the floors.  

You were the only volunteer anyway. Searching for crumbs, cockroaches, or dirt, you scrubbed until your knees ached and bled.

— Aren’t you at the party?

Kyle was there. Of course.

— I was.

— Oh, I—

— Don’t worry about it. There were a lot of people, we probably just missed each other.

A lie.  

You had seen him, had even spoken to him. But to him, you hadn’t even existed.

— Yeah, I... Sorry they made you work.

— It’s fine. It’s a nice change from the usual rations.

— Yeah... I guess so.

An awkward silence fell between them, the first one they had ever shared.

— I feel like something’s off, admitted Gaz.

— Off? How do you mean?

— There’s this tension... Did I do something wrong?

No.  

You knew you couldn’t blame him; it was your own fault.

— No, nothing like that... How was the party? I mean, you’ll probably get promoted soon.

— It was nice. There was even a ball.

You knew that.  

You had gone there hoping for a dance.

— Really? Who did you dance with, Garrick?

— A childhood friend. I didn’t want to ask someone I didn’t know well.

Oh.  

So… you weren’t even considered a friend. Just an acquaintance.

— I hope they didn’t get too bored.

— They ended up in the infirmary.

— Oh, what happened?

— I… I’m a terrible dancer, and let’s just say my weight isn’t exactly light when it lands on a foot.

— You broke their foot?

— No, it’s not—

You burst out laughing.

— Stop making fun of me, he said, though he couldn’t help but smile.

— Sorry, but you can hit targets from a distance, and three steps are too much for you?

— I’m just not good at ballroom dancing.

— So what would you have preferred? The Macarena?

— Maybe.

— I can totally picture Price doing that.

He grinned.

— But… if I had been better at dancing, I would’ve asked someone else, anyway, he admitted.

— Asked them what?

— To go with me.

— Oh.

— I just didn’t want what happened tonight to happen, and then we wouldn’t talk anymore.

— They’d be silly to let that come between you.

— You think?

— Yeah.

— So… can I assume you’re not silly?

— Why are you—

Oh.  

— You wanted to invite me.

— Yeah.

— But…

— The dance was mandatory, and I didn’t want to embarrass you. I’d rather embarrass myself.

— Why didn’t you say anything…

— I didn’t have the chance.

— ...Well, I’m not sure I’m convinced. I mean… dating someone who can’t dance? you teased.

— I can do the Macarena.

— Go on, then.

And slowly, in the kitchen, with his phone blasting the tune, Kyle started dancing, and under their shared laughter, you realized this might just be the dance he preferred after all.

_______________________________

SOAP :

Soap gave you a slightly unsteady grin.

— I missed you, he murmured, his words slurred.

You shook your head, watching him struggle to redo his shoelaces with clumsy fingers.

— Johnny, you're drunk, you said, a glint of amusement in your eyes.

— Maybe… but I still missed you. Best roommate in the world.

— I'm the only one, you replied, laughing softly.

— That's why you're the best, he said, giving you a clumsy wink.

You handed him a glass of water, a gentle smile on your lips.

— Drink this, and I'll fix you something to eat.

— That’s why you're my favorite.

— How was your night? you asked as you busied yourself in the kitchen.

— L.T. dared me.

— And of course, you accepted.

— Naturally.

— And got your ass handed to you, didn't you?

— Hm, he mumbled, a bit embarrassed.

He finally managed to sit down, struggling to stay upright.

— You know… I've never seen you dance, he said suddenly.

— What? you responded, surprised by the comment.

— I've never seen you dance. It’s a shame.

— I'm not really the type to go out dancing, you know that.

— Yeah… He thought for a moment, then added, We could dance right here, right now.

— And why would we do that? you asked with a curious smile.

— Because I want to see you differently. To feel you close to me.

— Johnny, you see me every day, you said, laughing softly.

— It’s not the same. This way, I could really see your eyes up close, smell your coconut shampoo…

— You already know all that, you replied gently.

— Yeah, but living it is different. I could touch you, feel your heartbeat, your hands on me… just you and me.

You looked at him for a moment, touched by his vulnerability.

— You’re really drunk, you murmured tenderly.

— Just one dance, he insisted, almost pleading.

— One dance?

He stood up with a bit of effort, swaying slightly but determined. He reached for your hands and pulled you close. The world around them seemed to blur into a haze.

Each step was awkward, each movement hesitant, but nothing could shatter the bubble they had created. To him, this was a precious, almost sacred moment.

As his eyelids grew heavy, he let himself relax into your arms, finding a sense of peace and contentment.

They shuffled in the confined space of the kitchen, their movements creating an unsteady rhythm that was as endearing as it was clumsy. You held him close, guiding his steps with a gentle hand on his back. The light of the overhead bulb cast a soft glow, illuminating the warmth of their shared moment.

The kitchen, usually bustling with the mundane tasks of everyday life, had transformed into a quiet, intimate space where time seemed to stand still.

The clatter of pots and pans was replaced by the gentle rustle of their clothing and the soft shuffle of their feet on the tiled floor. The contrast between the chaos of the night and this tender, private dance was stark but comforting.

Soap’s head rested against your shoulder, and you could feel the steady rise and fall of his breathing, the comforting rhythm of a heartbeat that mirrored your own.

There was something deeply satisfying about this moment of stillness amidst the chaos.

His breathing, slow and steady, was a soothing reminder of their connection. The way he relaxed into you, his body melting against yours, spoke volumes more than words ever could.

As they continued to sway together, you could sense the vulnerability and trust in his movements.

His occasional missteps and the way he leaned into you for support only highlighted the depth of his feelings. Despite the awkwardness, there was an undeniable grace to their dance—a testament to their bond and the quiet understanding they shared.

— You’ll dance with me again, won’t you? he murmured, half-asleep.

— We’ll see tomorrow, you whispered, guiding him gently to the couch.

He collapsed from exhaustion, instantly drifting into a deep sleep, still wrapped in the memory of their dance.

As the first light of dawn began to creep through the window, you moved about the kitchen, preparing breakfast with a newfound sense of tranquility. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables and the gentle sizzle of food in the pan were soothing. You stole glances at Soap, who was still deep in sleep, his breathing even and calm. There was something deeply satisfying about this morning routine, a feeling of normalcy and peace that you hadn’t realized you’d missed

The comforting aroma of breakfast filled the kitchen, mingling with the faint scent of whiskey that still clung to the air. The contrast between the warmth of the kitchen and the cold light of dawn outside created a sense of cozy isolation. You moved with practiced ease, your actions steady and deliberate, a quiet testament to the care you took in your daily routines.

Eventually, Soap stirred, his eyes fluttering open with the kind of groggy confusion that only a hangover can bring. He squinted in the light, struggling to get his bearings. When he finally registered your presence, he gave you a tired, lopsided smile.

— What I said last night… I meant it, he murmured. And this time, you can’t say I’m drunk.

— Technically…

— Technically, I’d love to kiss you and ask for another dance.

— You stepped on my feet more than twenty times last night.

— I know…

— And you reeked of whiskey.

— …

— Not to mention your snoring that kept me up all night.

— Okay, so I’m not perfect…

— But despite all that, I enjoyed our dance.

— Really?

— Even if choosing Blue Da Ba Dee for a slow dance was a terrible idea.

— That was me?!

— Yep.

— Damn… Let me make it up to you, he said, dropping to his knees in front of you.

You laughed, amused by his dramatic gesture, then knelt down in front of him, running a gentle hand through his hair.

— Alright, one more dance.

— One more dance, he repeated, a smile spreading across his face.

___________________

GHOST : 

The room gradually fell into silence, despite the constant chatter of the journalists on the screen. No one was really paying attention to the news broadcast. Simon was staring at his still fresh cuts, watching the red darken to brown.

— Want to dance? he asked, finally breaking the silence.

You looked up, surprised, then let out a small laugh.

— Dance? Now?

— Yes, now.

He reached out his hand to you. You hesitated, then finally placed yours in his. Exhausted, you let yourself lean against him. Simon picked out a vinyl, and soft music filled the room as they swayed slowly from side to side. He felt your warm breath against his neck, your body seeking refuge in his arms. His hand, still trembling, held yours tightly.

— You’re stiff as a board, you murmured with a smile.

— I’m managing, he replied, slightly offended.

— It’s like you have two left feet. Relax a bit, you added, a playful grin on your lips.

Simon couldn't help but smile inwardly. He had missed that smile so much— the real one, the one that made your eyes sparkle and your dimples appear, a stark contrast to the hollow gaze he had seen recently.

— It’s all over, you whispered.

You wasn’t talking about the dance.

— Yes, it’s all over.

Neither was he.

— Will I ever be able to dance again? you asked, doubt creeping into your voice.

To love. To love again.

A few weeks ago, Simon had returned from a grueling mission, only to find your home surrounded by police. The sight of the flashing lights and the presence of uniformed officers had sent his mind spiraling into a whirlpool of fear and dread. He imagined the worst, his thoughts racing with the possibility that his desire to keep you close had ultimately endangered you. He had feared that, like so many others before you, you might have been irreparably damaged by his choices.

But…

Under the harsh, unforgiving lights of the police cars, he had found no body, no immediate evidence of a catastrophic event. Yet, when he had seen you amidst the broken glass and the wreckage of their lives, you were nothing more than a shadow of the vibrant person you once were. Your eyes were vacant, the walls bore the scars of a recent trauma, and the TV was stuck on a loop, replaying the same game over and over, as if it were mocking the endless cycle of their suffering. The word "Sorry" was scrawled repeatedly, a haunting echo of remorse and helplessness.

.

Simon had understood the weight of the moment. With a gentle hand, he had helped you up from the floor, guiding you through the aftermath with a steadfast determination. He had been by your side for every medical appointment, every police report, and every painful statement. His presence was a constant, unwavering support as they navigated the wreckage of their lives together. Gradually, they began to live together, two lost souls seeking something more as they danced together that night.

A home, a dream, a soul?

No, it seemed they were searching for something more elusive—a ghost of their former selves, the remnants of a life that once held promise and joy.

— I’ll be here for you, Simon said softly.

— Then you better improve your dancing, you retorted with a hint of teasing.

— I promise, he murmured.

If becoming a dance master was what it took to help you rediscover the rhythm of life, then he was willing to dance for you, over and over. For he knew that no day should be spent with a heart broken by another. As they continued to sway to the music, the simple act of dancing became a symbol of their shared commitment to healing and moving forward. It was a testament to their resilience and to the enduring hope that, despite the pain, they could still find solace and joy in each other’s arms.

______________

PRICE : 

The flames in the fireplace crackled softly, casting shadows across the now-empty room. The guests had left long ago. John approached you slowly, deliberately, sliding his arms around your waist. He took a deep breath, letting your unique scent—something distinctly you—fill his senses, anchoring him in the present moment. The weariness of the past two months seemed to melt away as he embraced you. Finally, he was home.

—Something on your mind?, you asked, a hint of amusement in your familiar tone. It was a sound he had missed—something about your tone always made him feel like everything would be alright.

—I missed our date, he replied, a trace of regret in his voice.

—You've been on a mission for two months, John. I didn’t expect you to show up every Friday night for our little routines, you said, your laughter soft and genuine, like a soothing balm to his frayed nerves. The light in your eyes, though, told him that you understood more than you let on.

—I could have tried.

—And how would that go? 'Hey guys, hold on a sec, I need to leave for a romantic date with my partner?"

—I'm sure I could’ve convinced them, he said with a smirk.

You burst out laughing, shaking your head.

—Maybe, but I doubt El Sinombre would have agreed.

—Probably not, he admitted, his tone softening as he pulled you closer, But I couldn’t give you those moments that are just for us.

—John, you sent me more than enough money; don't worry about that.

—That’s not the kind of moments I meant, he said gently, his fingers tracing light circles on your arms, the touch both tender and reassuring. His caress was a silent promise of the moments yet to come.

—Oh...

—I love our dates, all those little memories. I remember the day a stray dog pushed me into a pond, or the time you ended up with cream on your nose at the restaurant, He chuckled softly, the memory of those times clearly cherished.

—And which one’s your favorite?, you asked, turning to face him.

Their faces were just inches apart, their lips almost touching, but neither gave in to the temptation. It was a game, a silent challenge.

—Our wedding day, he finally said.

—That wasn’t a date, you replied with a playful smile.

—It was, on the dance floor.

—Oh, that moment...

You remembered how John had surprised you, revealing that he had secretly taken dance lessons for months. That slow dance had transported you, as if the whole world had disappeared, leaving just the two of them, their steps perfectly in sync, their love shining like a star.

—I can’t even remember the steps, you confessed softly.

—Let me remind you, he whispered in your ear, his breath warm against your skin. The intimacy of his voice and the proximity of his body sent a shiver down your spine, making the room feel even cozier.

With infinite tenderness, he gently took your hands, his rough fingers guiding you with a careful precision that spoke of countless hours spent perfecting their dance. As he began to lead you through each step, humming the tune from their wedding, you felt a wave of emotion wash over you. A tender smile lit up your face, and you looked up at him, your heart swelling with love and gratitude.

—I love you, you finally whispered.

—I love you too,he replied with a sincerity that warmed your heart.

Slowly, the lights around them seemed to dim, the room growing tranquil as the dance came to an end. They stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, their hearts beating in harmony. The fire continued to crackle softly in the fireplace, casting a warm glow over them as the night settled into a peaceful calm. In that serene moment, surrounded by the remnants of their love and shared memories, they found solace in each other’s presence, cherishing the quiet beauty of their reunion.

If you want more : masterlist

[starlightsuffered]

Ruin her Innocence (Part 2)

Warnings - oral (female receiving), making deals for sex, telling someone to start birth control, sacralige during sex, innocent reader, short reader, petite reader, inexperienced reader, first time, alluding to penetrative sex, communion, eating food off body, body shot kinda

I hadn't been able to stop thinking about Kyle since he'd stolen my first kiss. However, I was determined not to have it happen again. Kyle would not have any more of my firsts.

We were sitting in a reserved study room. I was pouring over the information we needed, trying to find ways to condense it.

"Kyle," I snapped, he was reading his damn book.

"Yeah?" He asked lazily.

"I literally gave you the book, and opened it to the page you need, all you need to do is read," I begged.

"I could, but I don't want to," he smirked.

"You think I want to? What I want is a good grade, so I can get into a good college," I said.

"There's a way that you could convince me," he said with a dirty gleam in his eye.

"Oh no," I said, my heart some how sinking and panging at the same time.

"Let me give you your first kiss, and I'll behave," he offered.

"You already did, remember?" I gritted out.

"No, to your other lips," he said.

"What? You're making no sense."

He rolled his eyes.

"Let me eat you out," he explained.

"Eat me out?"

"You know," he said, making a V with two long fingers and waggling his tongue in the space between them.

"Oh, that," I said in near horror. "Why do you want to do that? Don't men hate giving head?"

"Not this man," he chuckled darkly.

"But that's where I pee, and have my period, and you want to put your tongue in there?" I asked.

"Very badly," he nodded.

"And you PROMISE you'll do the work if I let you do..... that?" I asked.

"Today I will, you may have to convince me again other times."

I weighed my options. I needed a good grade. I'd obsessively gotten all As in English since I'd ever done it. He could ruin my perfect streak. On the other hand, it would make him disgustingly cocky, and I'd be giving him another first. There was a small part of me, the part that thought about him at night while my cunt ached, that wanted this to happen.

"Okay," I sighed and he looked like he could shout for joy. I began to take off my pants.

"Ah, ah, ah," he scolded, " all of them, I want everything off."

"You want me naked?"

"Yes, bless my eyes with your form," he pleaded. The need in his voice nearly made me shiver. No one had ever been this... desperate for me. I knew it was just the turn on of me being a virgin, but it still made my body light up.

"Lock the door," I demanded. He went to do that as I took off my clothing. Once I was bare before him, I shrunk in on myself in shame.

"Don't do that, you're gorgeous," he said, removing my arms from hiding my breasts.

"So petite and small, how will my cock ever fit inside you?" He asked.

"We're not doing that," I snapped.

"Only a matter of time," he said with a wolfish grin. "Now, lay down for me."

I did as he said. Instead of coming to me, he grabbed something from the window sill. He then dropped down and straddled me. His weight felt nice on my aching core. I nearly wanted to rub myself on his dress pants for some relief.

He took what he was holding out. He placed a communion wafer on each of my hard nipples. Then he was pouring wine into my belly button, I gasped and he smirked. I could feel his hard cock in his pants, and I didn't necessarily know what was considered big, but he felt big.

"In the name of the father," he said, lips picked up the first wafer on my left nipple. I gasped as I felt his lips touch the sensitive flesh.

"The son," and there went the second wafer, and I was panting.

"And Holy Spirit," he finished by sucking the wine from my belly button.

"Oh my," I whimpered.

"Let's feast," he said, and began to lap at my heat. I couldn't keep still or quiet. How had I not known how wonderful this would feel? I didn't even masturbate.

"Mmm, there's something special about this pussy, the best I've ever tasted," he complimented, and my headiness became nearly overwhelming. Hearing him praise me did something in my stomach.

He continued with tiny licks to my clit, which he found immediately. I felt like I was going to pee, or explode, or something, it was an unknown feeling.

"K-Kyle," I moaned. He hummed into my cunt and I felt like lightning struck me.

"Oh, oh, so good, so good," I heaved. My breasts moved up and down rapidly with my arousal. His tongue was dipping in and out of me. I wanted to scream from pleasure. It was unreal how I felt.

"Somethings happening," I cried, "My legs feel weird, I feel like I'm about to burst!"

"You're going to come y/n, just let it happen," Kyle told me gently.

"I c-can't," I wailed as he dove back in, massaging the skin of my thighs. "I can't, Oh!"

The most wonderful feeling washed over me. I was shaking as he moaned into me. I couldn't help the small sounds that came from my lips. It was bliss reverberating through my body. It was like shockwaves overtook me.

"Oh, oh, uhhhhhh," I whined. I was coming down now, but I wanted it again. I wanted to feel that way forever.

"Feel good?" Kyle asked, his face slick.

"So good," I groaned.

"Here, taste yourself," he said, climbing up and trying to get me to suck on his tongue.

"What! That's so weird," I said, pushing him away.

"It's not, you'll like it, you taste good," he said, and put out his tongue again.

"This can't be normal," I said. He rolled his eyes.

"Y/n, I'm not some hedonistic demon who knows sexual things the world hasn't yet seen. This is plenty normal. I've tasted my own on girls' tongues before."

"Oh all right," I huffed. He bent down again, and I squealed as he replenished his tongue. I sucked on his tongue and tasted the tang of myself. I did feel my core heating again.

"There we go," he said, and removed himself from me.

I got up and began putting on my clothes.

"You have to study now," I pointed at him.

"Not this very minute, I need to change," he said.

"Why?" I asked.

"I came in my boxers when you did," he said plainly. I heated all over. He was so casual about it, but the idea did nothing to help my regrowing desire.

He came back moments later, in new pants. I wondered how he wasn't ashamed of having cum filled boxers in his locker.

"Alright," he cracked his knuckles. "Time to get to work.

I was appalled to see he was magnificent when put to the test. He could've easily helped me get an A, but he'd tricked me into this deal.

"By the way," he said as we left the room. "You definitely need to get on birth control, I'm not letting this go," he said, and cupped my pussy over my school skirt. I pushed his hand away shakily with a reproachful look.

"Not in public!" I hissed.

"You'll be eating those words soon," he said with a wink, and then he left.

[ontheoddoccasioniwritestuff]

A Spark To Ignite (Bodyguard!141 x Famous!Reader Preferences) Mild NSFW

Summary: You see each other every day. He works to keep you protected - a perk of your job and his. Occasionally feeling moments of passion and promises of something more between you two are only normal, right?

AN: I've got another bodyguard!AU for the 141 that's more angst based. I'll post that later. I've also got a Price x Escort!Reader in the works plus the end of "Star-crossed in the Crosshairs". Let me know if you have any requests/anything you'd rather see first <3

Content warning: Minors DNI, 18+ only, allusions to sexual tension/arousal, second person, no use of Y/N

Kyle "Gaz" Garrick

Another notification of being tagged in the same paparazzi image hit your notification inbox, yet you still opened it and shared a giddy grin at the Instagram feed.

You hadn’t been fussed about going running; it was the company rather than the activity that attracted you. But one thing you were certain about the sport was that no one ever looked flattering whilst doing it.

Yet there he was, your Kyle, looking like a model for Sports Direct. He was snapped midstride, his biceps practically rippling in the glow of the morning sun. There was even a hint of his lean washboard torso with the flap of his t-shirt’s raised coyly.

However, his dimpled smile aimed was the main focus of the headline – mainly because it was aimed at you and your equally elated expression. You blamed the euphoria of exercised endorphins but the way the photo was framed (plus the gaudy text declaring it so) made it seem as if you and Kyle were a true couple in love. It looked incredibly staged. Kyle was an “unknown” though so most budding theorists did not support any claims of it being a publicity stunt. Just two lovers out on a jaunty little run together.

You saved then added the photo to the folder of photos that captured you out with your bodyguard and the headlines that (sadly) misidentified him as your new boyfriend.

“Hey Kyle!”

Blending some fruits. His duties did not include head chef but you had long since allowed him access to your kitchen, even storing some of his favourites around the cupboards and fridge in case he fancied a snack.

Your phone was thrust up into his eyeline, you beaming behind it, “Another Pulitzer.”

Abandoning his smoothie temporarily, Kyle cupped his hand around yours to steady your swaying phone.

“They need to up their standards. Taking you for a jog is hardly a date you deserve,” He commented.

“Ooo, do tell: what do I deserve?”

“Well,” Kyle began pouring the smoothie into a glass, “I could go classic, take you to out on the town to a special place only I know about.”

You leaned onto your    elbows, chin resting in your palms, cheeks creased in a cheeky smile. “Mm-hmm.”

“Wine you, dine you, treat you like a deity,” Kyle said as if he was listing off menial tasks on his day to day whilst collecting another glass for the remaining smoothie. “Take you back to mine if you fancied it, another drink whilst we talk the night away and time passing without us noticing.” Graciously, he slid the other one across the countertop, and your fingers locked against his warm ones wrapped against the cool glass. “Then work up a sweat in a whole other way.”

Blinking away the glaze that had coated your eyes, you restrained the urge to gulp back your desire. A fresh breath in your lungs recovered you quickly and you managed to conjure a teasing quip amidst the fog that had settled over your thoughts.

“Think you could keep up with me?” You said before sipping the smoothie.

The sweetness of it countered Kyle’s smirking reply: “You and I both know I can more than handle you.”

“Better train harder then,” You said, proud of yourself for not stumbling over your playful banter, “I’m a catch, so you better be fast enough.”

“Jog, same time tomorrow?”

“Sure.” And, not missing in the reflection of the oven door how Kyle – for a split second – looked you up and down, you did your best not to collapse or squeal during your return to the sitting room.

-----------

Johnny "Soap" MacTavish

You leant against the ropes of the new boxing ring with a panting chest and aching legs. Jellied bones dared to let you collapse to the ground but at least, since your self-defence training had begun, you were lasting the full session rather than just after the warm-up.

“I think we’re done for today! Did good, held your own.” Johnny gave you a hearty slap on your back that almost ricocheted you off the ropes. “I’ve still got a few reps to get in.” He leapt out the ring and swigged from his water bottle, tossing you your own.

“Show-off!” You called out after him, though all in good fun, as you caught your bottle and your breath.

Technically, since you didn’t have anything else to do, you could get a head-start on getting cleaned up. You were in the privacy of your own gym, added at your request so that Johnny could train you better and you could do so without being ogled or papped.

Quite hypocritical it was then, that you lingered in the ring to watch Johnny stack up his weights on either side of the bar (the ones you purchased as part of his perks of working for you).

Your day-job came in handy with pretending to do some cooldown stretches, sipping from and pouring your water bottle over yourself. Well, you were actually doing those things but acting as if they were the only things that occupied your thoughts was the main role you were playing. From the corner of your eye, you observed Johnny squatted with a stack of weights lining each shoulder. God, those arms were practically popping, his thighs bulging with the effort of remaining planted on the floor and folding up and down beneath the hefty set. Mesmerising, you forgot to keep up your pretence by the second load of reps.

It left your lips before you could reconsider for the tenth time: “Bet you couldn’t lift me.”

Soap paused in a deep squat and looked up through his lashes at you. Meeting his steely blue gaze was easier than anticipated but maintaining it as he righted himself and rested the weights back on the rack with a restrained grunt was the difficult part.

At first, you thought maybe his silence was his answer. Then Johnny knelt down and assumed the plank position.

“Get on,” He said, loud and clear.

You still doubted him, “Seriously?”

“You made the bet. Now lie in it.”

As elegantly as possible, you dismounted the ring before making your way over to his side. He showed no signs of tiredness during your journey, nor did he when you balanced yourself across his broad back.

“Ok, ready,” You said, your voice close to wobbling.

And so it began. Up and down, you could feel how his body sustained you through both your and his workout gear. His back muscles rippled beneath you and his elbows kissed yours each time he lowered you both to the floor. Out of nowhere, you began giggling and you couldn’t figure out how to put a stop to it. Giddiness flooded your entire system until you were beyond drunk.

Suddenly, your world tilted and you rolled off onto the mat but Johnny refused you any respite, flipping you over onto your back again, like a pancake.

“I win,” He panted, “What’s my prize?”

Still giggling, you felt your cheeks burning at the sight of him hovering over you, his skin glowing, his chest panting. His unrelenting stare had you locked beneath him, barred between his trunk-like arms. If this was your prison, you’d commit any offence to stay in there. God you were so close you could kiss him-

Nope.

“You finish your workout early so you can have a nice hot shower sooner?” You said, covering your mouth to cough and clear your airways of whatever shit you breathed in to make you even consider making out with your bodyguard. You must’ve looked so daft; you blamed the endorphins. Then you blamed Johnny completely as he started to laugh down at you, sending your thighs quaking as he crawled off you and ordered you to get cleaned up – that he’d be in shortly after as a hint to not use all the hot water. As you drifted back to the bathroom, you tried not to think about him in the shower or how you wanted to offer to scrub him down.

-----------

Simon "Ghost" Riley

“Say the word and I’ll have him removed.”

For a man so stoic and intimidating, Simon sure made you smile a lot. You needed it after that… “interesting” conversation with one of the party’s guests – someone who you knew to be a detractor behind your back.

“It’s fine, really,” You insisted with a winning smile.

Casting a glance over your shoulder where your shadow dutifully remained was a reward you would never be exhausted of. Simon looked so good in his tux. Plus he’d humoured you and worn the silk black mask rather than his usual. You were brimming with privilege at seeing his hair styled beyond the flattened fuzz it would take on after being beneath the balaclava for twenty hours at a time. Even more so, you got to see his tattoos pairing nicely with them like a good bottle of wine.

You could hear the smirk hiding beneath his mask. His veined hands clasped firmly in front of him as he leant close, just his mask separating his lips and your ear.

“We could make a break for it. Ditch these twats. Get a drive-thru.”

He knew you never would agree to it; this gala meant a lot to you. Such a tempting offer though, in such a tempting voice too. His rough tone did nothing but delight you when you heard it. Turning to look at him, you took note of the two mere inches between your face and his.

He continued, “You’ve shown your face long enough.”

“Getting jealous of them stealing my attention?” You asked provocatively.

Simon let out a low laugh, shaking his head fondly with just a hint of patronising, “That’s funny, sweetheart.”

“Well, I’m sure there are plenty of people who are dying to still talk to me.” You gestured with the glass he’d gotten (and checked for any malicious interference) for you around at the room, those who would never have the privilege of being a part of your and Simon’s bubble.

“Just as long as you and everyone else knows that I’m the one who takes you home.”

The implications of that statement swelled in your chest, nestling into your heart like a cat in a warm patch of sunlight. Intently, he looked at your face for your reaction. That was the thing with Simon: always observing, recording every flicker, every possibility in that incredible mind of his. You were certain he could see into your soul with those all-seeing eyes. He kept you safe, kept you on your toes, kept you happy.

But the bubble burst before you could hit back and you abruptly checked yourself back into work mode. The person who’d spoken loud enough to bring you back down to Earth didn’t seem to notice your slip up. You, however, were more than acutely aware of Simon’s lingering presence at your side. So close the hairs on your arm extended on goosebumps, coaxing and begging to touch him.

As you were once again left alone, you found yourself stifled by your need to be nearer to Simon and quickly decided the alcohol was to blame. “I need the bathroom.”

“This way.” His hand grazing the small of your back had an impact tripled, but you managed to submit it to travelling through your nose, rather than gasping out your mouth. But you were certain that Simon had caught you. He never missed a thing.

-----------

John "Bravo Six" Price

After shaking hands again with the presenter and declaring a few thanks to the crew, you were guided straight to the dressing room by Price. You took off your own microphone and handed it to him, which he immediately passed to a nervous stagehand. Your name in Arial font on an A4 sheet of paper greeted you from the dressing room door.

Sometimes you needed that extra time to decompress and he knew before you did more often than not. Today was not one of those days, though you did request to stop and pick up the bouquet that had been there to welcome you in when you first arrived. It was so large, your favourites blooming in the dew-dropped cellophane, that you had trouble waving to the folks who’d stuck around at the barrier, Price’s arms keeping you walking and guiding you towards the car.

For your safety, you had to go in the back where the tinted windows offered you a hint of privacy. It was a thorn in your side though. You longed to sit beside Price as he fought playfully with you over the music, grumbled with the directions his phone offered, collected your drive-in order. Then maybe your daydream of being his partner could have a little more to stand on.

A true gentleman as well as your protector, Price walked you up to the house and let you set up your evening meal while he made final checks to secure your house again. Normality for you was hearing him walk around and jiggle door handles and returning only when he was certain none had been tampered with and your cameras were fully functioning.

“Anything else you need from me before I leave for the night?” He asked, standing at ease in front of you.

You gestured to the bouquet you were cradling like a baby, “Thank you for the flowers.”

His brows furrowed for a split second then a sheepish smile smoothed out the lines in his forehead, highlighting his eyes instead.

“You caught me,” He said quietly, sparing a look at the flowers he asked the host to order for you, then back at you.

Squinting mischievously, you asked, “Were you really hiding it?”

“I suppose not.” He let his smile soften and dull. Back to business. Yet you could’ve sworn he glanced at your mouth before he asked, “Anything else you need?”

Your heart yearned to beg him to stay and tell you what else he did behind the scenes without a hint of expecting more, so that you could show him how much you cared in an appropriately equal response. His favourite whiskey perhaps for when he was off duty, or one day doing something together that he wanted to do so it wasn’t just looking after you. It was more than that, the job. He’d told you so. But you didn’t want to just be a job to him.

Quietly, you maintained your decorum, “No, thank you.”

John nodded his head, “Of course.”

It was as he was about to cross the threshold when you started to ask, “Do you-”

Not even three words made it out before Price whipped around, already returning to where he’d stood before. You could feel your lungs struggling under the strain of maintaining steady breathing at the gesture, suspending all the blood in your face (and maybe your groin). It stopped your question in its path, as if it was waiting until Price was listening attentively (he always was for you).

“Yes?” He prompted, his voice soft as if to coax you out of your hideout.

Fidgeting with the bouquet still, you cleared your throat and began again, “Do you want to join me, for dinner?”

Price’s hands, now at his sides, tapped on his thighs thrice before he said, “Two conditions.”

“Name them.”

Perhaps you said that a little too quickly because it made him laugh, which only made things worse for you. You had a real weakness for that laugh.

“You teach me whatever you’re planning on making, and you let me help you make it.”

Your heart accelerated and you dismissed his with a smile and a slight self-deprecating remark to soften the weight of this decision you were both making: “It’s nothing special.”

“Those are my terms,” Price insisted. His eyes creased as a smile grew on his face, more beautiful than the flowers forgotten the second you placed them into the vase. But at least it gave you to excuse to look away and gather your expression into something more collected as you ordered him to go and wash his hands.

[lunamoonbby]

Cult!141 x Fem!Reader

(Dress described in the story)

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT MDNI

⚠️Warnings⚠️: Dark Content, Manipulation, allusions to past abuse very brief not in depth, female reader, swearing, pregnancy, birth, poly relationships, smut, Cult AU, the use of lord in terms to worship, Price being referred to as Father

If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse, know that there is help, and please help anyone that you know to help them escape from that abuse.

⭐️Author's Note: The religion that the villagers follow is not defined, but it is NOT associated with Christianity, Judaism, Islam, or any other type of religion there is⭐️

Chapter 4: A Rough Morning

It was morning time, and the sun was peaking through the window in your room, "I should get ready so I can walk to the church to have morning prayers." y/n said while getting out of bed and heading towards the vanity to get her daytime dress. She grabbed the bag and headed towars her bathroom. There, she took a nice warm shower, brushed her teeth, and got dressed. When she saw the dress she was in awe it was a dress made for royals, the base color of the dress was white with a sheer blue fabric over it and silver floral lace decorated the entire dress, and the sleeves were off the shoulders, "I definitely need to thank Father Price for this dress, wait...It has pockets too!"

After getting dressed and ready for the day, y/n left her room and locked the door, putting her key in her left pocket. "I should go to the tavern and have some herbal tea before I go to the church." y/n walks to the tavern and enters, "Good morning." Y/n smiling brightly, but was only met with weird looks, 'was it something I said.' She started to frown. "AH BONNIE LASS GOOD MORNING." Johnny exclaimed, "can you be any louder? Good morning y/n how can I help you?" Kyle looking at Johnny and then to y/n. "Good morning, Johnny and Kyle. Can I have that herbal tea that I got yesterday, I'll pay you back when I have the money." Y/n smiling at Johnny and Kyle. "You should have thought about that before buying that fancy dress of yours. You either buy something or get out!" Exclaimed a random patron.

Before y/n could react Johnny was already verbally attacking the patron, "Do not tell me how to run my damn tavern and if you must know I'm willing to help out someone in need, cause our lord says that kindness will be returned back to the sender. You must have forgotten, since you don't attend mass for the first and last days of the months, and on special holidays too. Since you have a problem, then you are going to pay for her herbal tea and apologize!" Johnny exclaimed . "And after you pay for your meal and drink, and for y/n's drink, I want you to leave this tavern and find somewhere else to eat your food!" Kyle was livid. How dare you talk to her that way. "Here you go, a nice warm herbal tea." Kyle handed the tea to y/n. "Thank you, but that person is right -" y/n got cut off. "Stop right there. If we had a problem with helping you out until you get back on your feet, then we would have definitely said something." "But we don't so drink up." Kyle and Johnny interrupted, looking at y/n with sparkles in their eyes.

"What are your plans for the morning?" Kyle inquired, y/n looking at her tea, "after I drink this tea, I'm going to the church for morning prayers, and then I'll take it from there." "Sounds interesting bonnie, just so you know we are closed for the rest of the day, but if you want a meal to eat just let myself or Kyle know we stay on the luxury floor of the inn your staying at my room is 203 and kyles is 202." Johnny stated. After drinking her tea, "Thank you for letting me know, I'm off to go to the church now. I'll you both later." Y/n waving a good by to Johnny and Kyle.

You arrived at the church, "Father Price, Good morning. I'm here for morning prayers." Price loving how devoted she is, "good morning, my child, I see you got a good nights rest. I love how devoted you are, come let's go to the altar, you know what to do." Y/n gives Father Price her hands so they could have their morning prayers. After prayers, y/n pulled four flowers to place in the offering bowl, "ah flowers that means love will find you soon." John noticed that despite having no money, she still brought something unlike some "followers" in this village. "So how was your morning? I trust you had a good nights sleep." Father Price asked, walking y/n to the pews so they could sit.

"I did have a good night sleep. My morning was great until I reached the tavern." Y/n was looking down at her lap. John already knew what happened cause Kyle phoned him right after y/n let to head to the church. "What happened?" Y/n sighed,"a patron yelled at me for not having money to pay for my tea, but Johnny and Kyle took care of it." "I see, many people are jealous, you are handed blessings left and right meanwhile they're not getting anything. Do you know why is that, my child?"

Y/n looks at Father Price, "it's because I'm devoted, I'm receiving so many blessings, but the non devoted receive nothing." Father Price pats y/n's hand, "you're a smart girl stay on your path of devotion and you'll recieve plenty more blessing my child, while I'd love to stay and chat with you all day I have errands to fulfill." Y/n gets up, "oh of course Father Price sorry to hold you back, also I'm going to ask Johnny and Kyle to use their kitchen I want to make you, Johnny, and Kyle a brisket pot pie, but I don't have brisket money." John loving the sound on how his little bird is going to make him food, "I'll get you the brisket and we can have that pot pie for supper at the tavern just the 5 of us." "Five?" Y/n looked confused. "I have another friend that I want you to meet." Price looked at her. "Oh, alright, I'd love to meet this other friend of yours, Father Price." Y/n smiles and walks away from the church. 'I loved how it didn't take much to convince little birdy, stay compliant little birdy, and you'll get so many blessings.' John smiling to himself while watching y/n leave.

Taglist is open comment if you would like to be added

@yourloverslost @tabbslouuformer @angelrissa @freefallingup13 @readingcatinacorner @sylvanasthebansheequeen @casualunknownrunaway @thatpersonnamedrook @rip-cod-brainrot @hoodiepandaninja16 @spacecrawllerr

[moody-alcoholic]

Special Delivery Service

Chapter 9 - The Old Friend

Summary: Simon x Reader. 3.7k words. 141 are in France to investigate the terrorist cell causing havoc, but maybe they should have been looking closer to home.

CW: mentions of fictional terrorist attacks, angst.

Previous - masterlist - Next

Enjoy <3

It was the first time you felt out of place, like you weren’t supposed to be there. When you walked into the storeroom with Simon it felt like daggers when everyone's eyes turned to you. John’s was the worst. You hung your head feeling embarrassed, you almost wanted to just leave say you’ll see Simon when he get’s back. But he insisted it was okay, and that you should come along. 

“A word,” John said to Simon through gritted teeth. You sheepishly walk over to the table where Kyle and Johnny are. There is gear and paperwork everywhere somethings stacked in neat piles other stuff just spread out with markings. 

“Ever been to Paris lass?” Johnny asks. Even though you definitely don’t belong here he still has a massive grin on his face. You nod taking another step up to the table. You can see maps of what looks like Paris and other cities you don’t recognise. 

“What are you going to do? Kill some terrorists?” You joke trying to lighten the heavy feeling in the air. Kyle raises an eyebrow at you Johnny’s smile fades a little. You swallow hard watching their expressions change. 

“I’m joking.” You say feeling embarrassed. 

“How much has Si told you ‘bout our old jobs?” Johnny asks. You open your mouth to answer but the door opening behind distracts you and has your head turning to see Simon and John walk in.

“Laswell is meeting with us at Heathrow.” John says, there’s an edge to his voice, he sounds annoyed. You want to turn and look at Simon who you can feel behind you, you wonder what they talked about they weren’t gone for long. Everyone's listening to what John is saying but it feels like he’s being intentionally vague. 

“-it’s a shame none of you learned French.” You hear John say. 

“I speak French.” You say. They all turn to look at you.

“Fluently?” John asks you nod. 

“I had a knack for languages in school.” John looks around the table and down at the plans. He thinks for a second then nods. It’s almost like you can hear what he’s thinking. Guess you’re not totally useless after all. 

 ——————————

You’re nervous, tapping your leg under the table, so much so Kate has to put her hand on your knee to get you to stop. You wrap your hands round the coffee you’ve almost finished. What if you couldn’t understand them? What if you can’t help and John has wasted his chance. You push the thoughts away as you wait for the other man to show up. It was supposed to be simple, that’s what John said when you all arrived at the rental you were staying at. Two guys having a meeting, your job was to listen, translate, and do as you’re told. John showed you pictures of the men in question and you had them burned into your memory, looked like your average looking middle eastern guys. They looked young maybe early 20’s it made you sad to think people so young had so much hate. 

“How long have you and Riley been together?” Kate asks suddenly. You try not to look shocked at the question. 

“It’s not like that. We’re not..together.” You say taking a sip of coffee, or maybe it is, you just haven’t put a label on it yet. 

“I see the way he looks at you.” Kate says pushing her sun glasses back up on her face. You look back down at the coffee, trying to hide your blushing. 

“How long have you worked with them?” You ask. Changing the subject. 

“Years, when they were still active duty we used to work very closely together.” Kate says. You still don’t know what you think of her but from the reunion at the airport it seemed at least her and John were close. All smiles and hugging. Kate Laswell CIA, John introduced her as. You shook her hand as she looked back at John confused. You wanted to pick their brains ask them all about her but it felt rude.

“You and John seem close.” You say trying to pry information from her. It didn’t mean to come across as a dig at her but it felt like one. Especially after she asked about Simon.  

“Yeah, he’s saved my ass a couple of times, I saved his too.” She smiles sipping her coffee. She looks older then John, or maybe they’re the same age. John doesn’t even seem that old, you keep forgetting to ask Simon how old he really is. You suspect the bags under his eyes and wisps of silver hair you seen now and then make him seem older then he is. 

“Did you to ever..” You trail off not really knowing how to ask. She smiles and lets out a little chuckle.

“Strictly professional, besides he’s not my type.” You smile at her. She’s nice at least and doesn’t seem to be bothered by your presence. You look past her seeing the man you’ve been waiting for walk into the cafe. He greets his friend and sits down. You turn your body so you can hear them better. The conversation starts off normal up until their coffee is bought over. The it turns to something more serious. 

“They’re talking about the attack.” You relay to Kate, keeping your voice low. You’re trying to listen for specifics. Your fingers tap the table as you try to keep up with what they’re saying. You haven’t really practised French that much and they are talking quite fast. Kate told you to pay attention to dates, numbers, locations, specifics like that even if they didn’t make sense. 

“They’re not happy the second bomb was found.” You say, you’re surprised they’re talking about this so open in such a public place. It makes you nervous, they’re not afraid if innocent people get hurt. You try to relax focusing all your effort on trying not to look so obvious listening in to their conversation. 

“They know a guy on the inside, who works for the metro. He’s the one they’re using to plant the bombs, apparently he’s under too much suspicion, he can’t do it.” You look at Kate she’s writing down what you’re saying in a notebook. 

“They’re talking about an airport, not Charles de Gaulle, another one. They have tickets, they’re leaving tonight.” You say hearing one of the men hand over a ticket to the other. 

“They’re talking about another target. Somewhere big, that’s why they have to leave. It’s in Paris.” You try to will them to say a name anything. Instead the conversation abruptly ends with the buzzing of a phone. The man who showed up later says his goodbyes and takes his leave. You watch as he passes you and Kate out the cafe. 

“We need someone to tail the mark, he’s leaving now, with a plane ticket. Get the ticket.” Kate says on the phone, then turns to you. 

“Order us another coffee.” You nod waving the waiter over asking for a refill. You watch as the man leaves the cafe, a few seconds later you see a glimpse of Johnny. Your heart starts beating rapidly as you watch him weave through the crowds after the man. You sip the coffee letting it burn your mouth suddenly worried about him. He knows what he’s doing. You remind yourself they’re SAS soldiers.

Kate keeps a conversation with you about something generic, you’re only half listening your ears still burning like you’re waiting to start listening to another conversation. It’s almost midday now the sun is belting down, the coffee not helping. Before you know it you’re uncomfortably sweating, you know you have to stay until the other man leaves. You hear a phone ringing it’s the man behind you, you look at Kate who smiles moving her hand to the pen.

You listen carefully, it’s harder when you’re only getting one side of the conversation apparently. Your breath catches in your throat as you hear the words out his mouth translating them in your head. You almost want to turn around and ask him to repeat it, then you remember the situation. 

“The other man knows he’s being followed.” You say to Kate. Before she can respond the man gets up from the table rushing out the cafe in the direction you saw Johnny go. Kate is already on her feet on the phone before you have chance to process what’s happening. You follow her blindly back to the house you came from. You hope Johnny is okay and they managed to get the word to him. You rush through the doors to see John and Simon gathered round the table. Kyle and Johnny are not here, they turn to you as you walk over to the table.

“Good work.” John says to you and you smile looking down at the map on the table. Kate and John talk when something grabs your eye, it’s a piece of paper with part of a poem written on it. You pull it out from the stack. There is a rough translation scribbled next to it. It’s a bad translation though. 

“What’s this?” You ask holding it up. John almost looks annoyed your interrupted their conversation. 

“Part of a poem we think, they’ve been using them to send messages, thought it was important but the translation says otherwise.” Price says crossing his arms.

“Chanson de la Seine.” You say looking at it. “The translation is bad though. Notre dame jalouse. It’s not; our lady is jealous, that’s a direct translation. It’s talking about the location on the river seine, the Notre-Dame cathedral.” You look at them waiting to see if they understand. Then it hits you what it means. Shit.

  ——————————

You’re laying on the sofa watching the TV when everyone leaves. The news is showing the recent ‘terrorist scare’ which as lead to the Notre-Dame being evacuated. You smile, you helped cause that. It was a good thing, the safest thing to do. Johnny and Kyle came back from chasing the guy not long after John and Kate had made calls to the French authorities. They didn't get him instead coming back when John called them. You weren't really listening much after that, they all kind of went around doing their own things for about an hour before they were picked up by some gendarmes.

Even Kate went with them, you wished you could have gone too but instead you were told to stay here and expect them to be back in a few hours. John had given you all the rest of the poem and song verses they had collected and asked you to look over them. You haven’t bothered yet looking over at the pile lying on the coffee table. You should make a start though its the least you can do to help them out, and they probably need them done sooner rather then later.

You sit up picking the pile up while watching the TV. It kind of feels like your in school again doing your French homework for the week. The first two have been translated well so you put them too the side. There are some old classic poems you recognise from your french classes, the rest are songs old and new. The verses are nitpicked though not in any kind of order. Maybe there was an order but you didn’t have all the information. Some were dated and had locations on them others were blank.

You look back up at the TV as the news caster says a British counter-terrorism unit has been sent over to aid with the ongoing attacks. You see John in the background as the caster moves to the side, then Simon and Kyle. Simon has that scary mask on the one that looks like a skull, even from the brief shot before they move away it sends shivers up your spine. You don’t see Kate anywhere, you assume since she was the only one who left the house without all the military gear on, she’s probably behind the scenes.

You don’t have time to think about it much longer before there is a sharp knock at the door. Your body freezes in fear as your hand grips the paper you were reading. You wait a second looking towards the front door. There’s another harsh knock that goes on for longer. You turn the TV off waiting, not knowing what to do. If it was them they all have keys, plus you just saw them all on live TV. You wait for the next sound expecting another knock but instead you hear a power tool.

You panic, they’re going to break in. You stand up clutching the papers in your chest with your phone thinking of a place to hide. There’s a chubby in the kitchen where the cleaning supplies are, you could go in there. You head over to it but the decide different. There is an en-suite in the master bedroom, that has to have a lock.

The drilling has stopped and you hear metal clanking you have to pick. You rush into the master bedroom leaving the door open and lock the en-suite as you hear voices. You slap your hand to your mouth so you don’t make a sound the papers falling from your arms. Someone says search the place. You can’t hear them very well but you hear footsteps in the bedroom. You hold your breath hoping he’ll think the door is a wardrobe and give up when he can’t get in. The door handle jiggles but thankfully the person gives up.

You hear more people talking, there must be at least 4. You scoot over to the door and press your ear up against it. You try to concentrate on them talking your ears ringing as your heart pounds in your chest, you press your hands against the door your body shaking. 

“How did they know?” Someone says. 

“The woman she’s American CIA.” Another replies, you’re struggling to hear your mind racing at 100 miles an hour at least you don’t have to translate for anyone. Then you remember your phone, you pull it up in your shaking hands. Who do you call? You go to your contacts pulling them up and thinking. Maybe you shouldn’t call you can’t really talk right now. You hear power tools again. 

“Are you almost done with the door?” Someone says. “Have you finished setting the bugs up?” 

“Yeah, should I put some in the bedrooms?” A new voice asks. 

“Only if you want to sort through hours of snoring audio.” 

“Come on let’s get out of here, before they come back.” The same deep authoritative voice says. You’re shaking as you type on the phone, you don’t even know what to say. You think you hear them leave but you’re too scared to look instead sitting up against the door. No one replies to your message, you feel tears streaming down your cheeks as the adrenaline wears off. You stay in the spot on the bathroom door for what feels like hours when you hear the front door again.

This time using a key, it has to be them, a second later you hear their voices. You stand up your body stiff legs aching as you leave the safety of the en-suite. You’re shaking as you go out into the living room seeing them all turn to look at you. Concern washes over their faces. You put your finger to your mouth your eyes wide looking round them all. They look confused you reach out grabbing John’s arm and pulling him towards the bedroom gesturing for the others to follow. They do if not very slowly, when they’re all in the room you close the door behind them. 

“People broke in while you were out, they were looking for something. They knew about Kate being CIA. I think they were planting microphones, something around the place. But not in the bedrooms, they said they didn’t want to listen to all the audio of snoring. I don’t know how many there were but they broke the door with power tools.” You pause for a second realising that you’ve just been blurting words out. Your eyes flick up to Simon, you wish he could hold you right now, you wish you could see his face. His scary mask is gone but he’s still sporting the ski mask you’ve seen him in before. 

“Okay, sit down.” John says pressing your shoulders so you sit down on the bed. 

“Take a breath and start again.” He says. You follow his instructions talking in a big gulp of air and starting again. You go over everything how you were watching TV when you heard them knocking on the door. You hid in the en-suite and listened to them talking. They said they were planting bugs and then you were too scared to leave. You show them the word vomit text you sent then the next thing you remember is hearing them come back. 

“Soap, Gaz search the place, Ghost stay with her, Laswell with me.” Everyone but Simon leaves the room. You’re still gripping your phone when Simon rests one of his hands on your shoulder, it makes you tense up for some reason but he gives you a gentle squeeze anyway. You try to relax as you wait for everyone to finish doing their jobs.

“You did good.” Simon says, you look up at him, he’s looking down at you his expression soft. You smile at him, your cheeks still puffy from crying.

“How did it go, did you find anything?” You ask. He shakes his head and you nod. You don’t know if that mean’s they didn’t find anything or he can’t talk about it until they know the place is clear. 

“Got one.” Johnny says, you look through the bedroom door to see him throw something on the table. A few minutes later Kyle throws one on the table. Then Johnny with another. You feel sick it reminds you of when Kyle found the cameras in your place. This is different though way more dangerous, these people are planting bombs to kill people. You watch as John picks one up in his hand before looking over into the bedroom. His eyes meet yours for a second then he looks up at Simon. 

“We’re leaving tonight.” John says suddenly. Simon walks out the room over to the table while you sit there watching them rush around to pack everything up. You had barely been in Paris 12 hours and now you’re already leaving. You head into the en-suite picking up the papers you dropped when you rushed in there. You bring them out to hand them to John who’s stacking papers back into folders. 

“Did you manage to go through them all?” He asks. You shake your head. He goes to open his mouth again but then a phone starts ringing, then another. John take his phone out his pocket. You hear Kate talking too. You watch as they both lock eyes with each other. John goes over to turn the TV on. You sneak past him watching the news caster, your stomach drops when you see the footage. It's London. You’re not even listening to Kate and John on their calls just watching the plumb of smoke rise up out the underground station entrance. 

“Holy shit.” You gasp your hand flying to your mouth. Simon, Johnny and Kyle come over to see too. 

“What are they saying?” Kate asks now she’s off the phone. John leaves going into the bedroom closing the door behind him. 

“It happened about an hour ago, evening rush hour. They’re not sure who did it.” You say looking round as you translate. It’s making a lump form in your stomach. 

“12 people dead, more injured thats the preliminary numbers.” You feel your phone start vibrating in your pocket. You pull it out it’s your mum. 

“I have to get this, my mum will be worried.” You say going off to the side. When your mum answers the phone you hear sniffling. Everything stops your body freezes you feel a lump form in your throat.

“Mum?” You say hoping she’s just worried about you. 

“It’s Dylan” She sobs. You can’t breathe, your brother Dylan. You feel sick and dizzy all at once. 

“Mum?” you say again your voice breaking. “Is he dead mum?” She doesn’t answer her sobbing just getting louder.

“Oh my God.” You breathe down the phone gripping it as hard as you can. Your stomach’s doing flips. Your little brother, this can’t be happening. He’s the good kid the one who was supposed to do something with his life. 

“Hello?” There is a new voice on the line now. It’s familiar though you recognise it. 

“Yes, hello?” You say fully sobbing now, you hear the door to the bedroom open behind you. 

“It’s Christine from next door. Dylan is alive, at least that was the last update we got.” She says.

“W-when was that?” You as trying to wipe the tears away. You feels someone come up behind you. You hope it’s Simon, all you want now is to get back to the UK. 

“About 10 minutes We don’t know what is happening I assume you heard about the bomb?” She says.

“Yeah.”

“He was on the train, he was injured. A paramedic called us, but we have not had an update since.” She says. You can hear the sadness in her voice too, and your mother sobbing in the background. 

“I’m so sorry.” She says. You don’t know what to say. 

“Please keep me updated.” You say your voice breaking again. You don’t want to hang up you can’t not while your mother is breaking in the background. You wish you were in London, you wish you were home. You put the phone down turning to see everyone's eyes on you. It was Johnny who had come up behind you, you swallow hard holding the phone up. 

“My brother was on the train.” You manage before you just turn into a sobbing mess, the reality finally hitting you. Johnny doesn’t hesitate wrapping his arms round you and squeezing you tight. You wish it was Simon holding you instead, you wish your brother was okay. You wish you were home. 

Next

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This chapter failed the bechdel test so hard. I will make it up next chapter...

[wizzdot]

The Patron Saint of One Way Trips

Ch9

Description: more progress. Laika goes shopping with Gaz and Cap. Cap looses his cool in the lingerie shop but keeps it hidden. Gaz is upfront to John about how he feels. Progress progress progress. Johnny is busy looking after Simon!

*Laika’s POV*

I close my eyes and try to trick my brain to switch itself off. I toss and turn for what feels like hours. Everything is so foreign here. It's too clean, too spacious and open. I climb from the bed and lean down to organise an area to sleep underneath, like I had done at the safe house. Shit. The bed is solid. It has built in storage drawers underneath. I look around the room and try to figure out a more secure sleeping location. My eyes settle on the walk in wardrobe. I scramble towards the door, clutching my blankets and hanky. Yes. This would do. It's small, dark and gives me an extra barrier if someone were to intrude.

I crawl in and curl up into a ball. This was much better. A few minutes pass and I eventually fall asleep.

I don't feel well rested when I wake up to muffled knocking. I forget where I am for a few seconds, as I blink away sleep. It's pitch black. Oh yeah.. the cupboard. I'd slept in the cupboard.

"Laika" a muffled voice carries through the door. Two doors. I rush to my feet, feeling light headed from standing too quickly. I blink away the black spots in the corners of my vision and hurry to open the door. Its Gaz.

"How'd you sleep?" he asks, glancing at the bare bed with a furrowed brow. He doesn't bring it up. "Uhm.. better, I think" I respond. He smiles and holds his hand out for me to take. "Let's grab something to eat, then we can get ready for your big shopping spree. Did you not get chance to dig through your drawers? I thought Cap said he'd asked to have them filled with clothes for you. Just guessed your size but it'd be better than walking round in mine and Soap's clothes everyday..they're huge on you.." he laughs.

"I didn't think to look..I can go and get changed and give you your hoodie back if you like?" I suggest, slowing slightly as he leads me down the hall. He tugs me forward gently. "Don't want it back, love. You keep it, makes it special huh? Your first proper gift since you escaped" - "I didn't escape. Soap.... stole me." I wince at how that sounds said out loud but Kyle seems to find it hilarious. He laughs loudly "Yeah, Johnny does have a habit of taking things. He 'borrows' stuff all the time and never returns them. Guess he's went and done the same with you" he chuckles, squeezing my hand.

I find myself smiling along with him. It felt foreign on my face. "Toast again? Or cereal?" - "toast please.." - "fine, but you're having at least two slices today. No more under-eating, yeah? Gotta look after yourself, Laika. You've got a busy few weeks ahead of you". My happiness fades, I feel like I'd been doused with a bucked of ice cold water. Oh yeah, I forgot. This was temporary. Just a few weeks. Then I'd be on my own again. Abandoned when I was no longer useful.

I lean against the counter as Gaz flutters around the kitchen. The toast is in front of me before I have chance to snap out of my sad thoughts. "Remember what I said? Eat up, busy few weeks ahead, yeah." That's it, Gaz, rub it in. "Yeah" I reply "busy few weeks". I repeat glumly. Gaz furrows his brows, but tries to brush over whatever had upset me. I can tell he is confused.

*Gaz's POV*

I had set my alarm early - I was buzzing to spend the day off base with my Alpha and Laika. A rare treat for us when we were usually bogged down by missions and paperwork. I had showered and dressed before knocking on Laika's door. Weird. I thought she was a light sleeper but for some reason it took her about a minute to start rustling about after I'd started knocking. She greeted me at the door, still wearing mine and Johnny's clothes. That caught me off guard a little bit.

I smile at her and lead her down the hallway. Her hand feels so nice in mine. I was stupid and brought up the clothes and my hoodie and she thought I wanted my hoodie back. That was the last thing I wanted. She seems pleased when I offer the hoodie to her as a gift but she doesn't really say anything. To be honest, it's more of a gift to myself. I swear I can start smelling a tiny hint of something that wasn't mine or Johnny's scent. Could just be whatever she used to shower.

She seems to withdraw from me, all of a sudden. What did I say? Did I upset her by telling her to eat more. Fuck, Kyle. You stupid prick. I needed to have a chat with Cap.. he always knew how to diffuse this sort of situation. I'd do that when I drop her back at her room to get changed for her shopping trip. Hopefully she still wanted to go. Fuck, she looked so out of it again. Maybe it's the drugs still in her system...

*Laika's (Y/N's) POV*

Gaz leads me back to my room again after I'd eaten a slice and a half of toast. He seemed a little sad. He probably wasn't looking forward to being dragged out to the shops with me. His time could probably be better spent.. "I - I don't mind if you'd rather not come to the shops with me.. I don't want you to feel like I'm dragging you off base when you have more important things to do.." I offer him an out.

*Gaz's POV*

My stomach drops.. she didn't want me to go with her anymore. Think Kyle, think!

"Do you not want me to come? It's your call, love" I say in the most balanced voice I can manage. She furrows her brow and looks up at me. Why is she confused? I'm confused..

*Laika's (Y/N's) POV*

"I just don't want to be a burden.. I - I would like you to come with me.. but only if you actually want to..." I murmur, feeling guilty. "That's settled then, I'm coming" he smiles brightly. I remind myself that this is only temporary. "The clothes I told you about are in the drawers under the bed. I asked to put a few shoes in one of the drawers too, checked the size of your boots at the safe house. Hope you don't mind..." - "You didn't have to do that.. I feel bad that you're wasting money on me.." - "None of that" he interrupts before continuing "we get paid well and have very little opportunity to spend it, so it's actually nice to buy things. Especially for you.." he trails off.

I rub the back of my neck, feeling anxious under his gaze. "I'll shower and get dressed then.. Is the Captain ready?" - "He said he needed to call Laswell quickly, he should be ready whenever we are. I'll wait in the kitchen for you. Just come find me when you're done" he smiles and waits at the door before turning away when I start closing it. I quickly shower and change, choosing some black cargo style trousers and a form-fitting black body suit. It was all fairly standard military issue clothing but I actually liked it. It was comfortable and...mine.

Lined neatly in the drawers on the other side of the bed are a few pairs of shoes. I immediately feel guilty even though he had told me not to. There were black converse, and a few branded trainers. They had spent far too much on me, I was going to tell him. I choose the converse and put my hair in a tidy low-bun. Time to find Gaz.

When I reach the kitchen, Gaz and the Captain are already waiting. John jingles the car keys at me in a friendly nature with the sweet smile that he so often has on his face. "Let's go and get you decked out with whatever you need, Y/N".

John drives, Gaz sits up front and I sit in the back. I find myself biting my nails, trying to distract myself from the anxiety clawing at me. Gaz faces me from the front seat - "What is first on your list?" - "shower stuff and socks and.. underwear.." I reply awkwardly, blushing slightly. "Did you have stuff to use in the shower at base? I asked for some to be provided before we arrived" the captain asks "yeah.. there were a couple of small bottles of the unscented stuff.." I explain.

*Gaz's POV*

That answer piqued my interest... so if the shower gel she used was unscented, that means that whatever the faint smell I could pick up that wasn't Johnny or I, must be hers. That must mean that the drugs were fading from her system. I feel the Alpha in me get a little excited at the possibility of finally learning her scent. Beta's had nice calming, soft scents. I needed to get closer and try and scent her.. find out what she smells like.

*Laika's (Y/N's) POV*

The captain pulls up at a large multi-shop shopping center and we all get out of the car and walk towards the main entrance. I feel a little anxious - this was the first time in years that I'd been out in public without having an objective to track someone or assassinate a target. I felt as if everyone's eyes were on me but that was just my anxiety talking. I am safe with John and Kyle... "I think we should just start at the first shop we get to and work our way around, clockwise - that's probably easiest. Y/N - whatever you see, just pick it up. There is no limit or budget. I mean that.." John explains. I nod while still biting my finger nails. He gently removes my hand from my mouth and tutts at me "bad habit, that".

Gaz grabs my hand and smiles. He was good at reassuring me.. always there with a kind smile or gentle encouragement. "Let's go then" he says.

The shopping trip is successful, I am exhausted though. I slump into the back seat of the car while the Alpha's load several bags into the boot. They insisted on literally buying anything I so much as looked at. We came away with soft fur blankets, pillows, cushions, clothes, underwear, shower and skin care products, jackets, shoes, workout gear, jeans, other clothing - hell - John even bought me some summer dresses that he had caught me gazing at. He refused to take no for an answer. Gaz had disappeared for a few minutes and returned with a build-a-bear styled after himself, cap and everything. He gives it to me and it REEKS of him - he must have scented it. I blush and take it. John shakes his head fondly at the young Alpha.

*John's POV*

The Alpha inside of me was positively preening. A happy Kyle and Y/N was a job well done as far as I was concerned. Kyle had told me in the kitchen to try and scent Laika closely today because he had picked up an unknown scent earlier under his and Johnny's clothes - that was interesting. I am aware of it all day. It's faint - hardly even there, but every time she feels nervous or happy, it heightens a little. It was almost like a reward, the Alpha inside of me quickly learnt. We had developed quite a good little routine.

It went like this - Laika shows interest in something from afar, I move her toward it and encourage her to get it for herself, she hesitates and makes up excuses on why she shouldn't, I send Kyle with my card to buy it anyway. She gets all bashful and I get a fleeting hint of that faint scent that had started coming from her. See something. Buy it for her. Inhale her scent. Repeat - repeat - repeat.

I almost lost the plot in the lingerie shop. I wasn't quite sure what came over me but I had to push the Alpha down, I was getting far too excited and I could tell Y/N was feeling a little awkward, especially when the cashier called her a 'lucky girl' while glancing between the three of us. I feel myself grumbling with pride and stepping closer to her and Kyle. Snap out of it, John. She isn't your pack. Chill out!

*Laika's (Y/N's) POV)

I fall asleep on the drive home, comforted by the teddy with the scent of Gaz. The car smelt strongly of the entire pack but John and Kyle's scents were certainly heaviest. Since when did I start recognising scents so well? Another thing I should bring up to the doctor when I eventually feel brave enough to visit.

*Gaz's POV*

I nudge John and tell him to look at Laika. She had fallen asleep clutching the Gaz-bear up at her nose. John shocks me when he purrs slightly. I whisper so I don't risk waking her up "S'not only me feeling oddly attached to her, then..?"

"Kyle.." he warns in a grumbly whisper. "Don't get ahead of yourself".

I feel a little deflated at his answer before he speaks up again, rubbing my scent gland with his rough fingers "But yes, there is something intriguing about her, isn't there? Oranges and honey and something flowery.. I can't put my finger on it - it's faint but it's her.."

The Alpha inside of me hums happily, feeling encouraged at the pack Alpha's opinion.

"I want her to stay, Cap" - "I know you do, Gaz.. but we have to take things at her pace. We don't know much about her. And Simon isn't the most welcoming. We've got to look after our pack as well.. can't just make decisions for everyone without discussing them first.."

"I'll speak to Johnny, I think Ghost could come round if he gave her a chance.."

"We'll see Gaz, but don't get your hopes up" he squeezes my thigh from the drivers seat.

I stare at Y/N who sleeps the entire way back to base.

Beautiful.

[lovers-tucked-into-a-quiet-cafe]

4th of July Special [IKYLHT]

~2.9k Words | Series Masterlist | Prev | Next Chapter [Coming Soon]

Hope you enjoy this very very overdue special chapter. It's part of the larger timeline of the story but considering we just had the 4th not too long ago I figured I'd post what I had so far just to keep you held over until chapter 8 is finished. It will very much be expanded upon in due time. Much love

-

There are three holidays you force yourself to celebrate as an active member of the military.

Veterans Day, the obvious.

Memorial Day, also obvious.

And the great ol’ 4th of July. Independence Day, a celebration of our great freedoms, our national pride.

More importantly- a day filled with beer, fireworks, and a rack of ribs, all without the threat of having to clock in that morning.

The boys had called you a yank when you’d first suggested it, mentioned something about the ridiculousness of the American desire to clog your arteries while lighting shit on fire.

The sweat of the 98° day dripping down Johnny's back, soon to be washed away by cool pool water. An ice cooler filled with Coronas, freshly cut limes on the table. Slow cooked rack of ribs on each plate while the burgers sizzle on the grill. These were things you’d pitched to the boys only moments before they’d laughed in your face.

The idea of leaving the Queen’s land to shack it up with a bunch of blue-coats celebrating the day they’d left the commonwealth felt blasphemous, especially for Simon and Price, the true patriots they are. Kyle didn’t care much, he’d actually been quite excited to visit the US again. The west coast was unexplored to him, and he’d be lying if the prospect of seeing a few celebrities during his stay in California didn’t excite him. Truthfully, Johnny would take any chance to subtly spite the Brits. He’s a proper Scot, after all.

But you’d pushed the idea hard.

It was Sparks’ annual 4th of July barbeque and there was no way in hell you were going to run the risk of missing him lose a finger trying to light the extra explosive fireworks he’d bought after a mission in Texas.

You’d gone that route first- having Shane call Price to personally invite the task force to his home in San Diego with the promise of good food and drinks. When the invitation didn’t seem to make it to the group chat, you’d stepped up your game. You thought maybe a polite Captain-to-Captain request from Griggs would suffice. It did not.

Fortunately, you were in the perfect position to seal the deal.

“You know, I just think it’d be a great team bonding activity.”

You hear his groan as your movement stops, feel the way his hands fly up to grasp at your waist, but you ignore him entirely.

“I don’t understand why you insist on impeding my job, John. I thought it was a captain’s duty to assist his subordinates?”

His fingers dig into your hips, trying their best to move you but you keep yourself steadily perched atop his lap.

“I think this is team bonding enough, love.”

You look around the room, turning your head as far as you can in each direction, before you settle your eyes on his form once more.

“I don’t see the rest of them. Seems like it’s just you and me here, Price.”

A small moan he clearly tried to conceal slips out as you lean forward, planting your hands on his sweaty chest and feeling the way his heart quickly patters. The bed shifts under you, sheets molten hot with your combined heat.

“Want me to go get them? I can roam the base in search of them. Would be faster if I skipped getting redressed-”

“-Alright, alright. I’m listening.”

You go to speak but shoot him a stern glance as you feel him attempt to move from under you.

The coy smile he lets out feeds your soul, his cheeks flushed from exertion, eyes hungry with want.

“We’re going.”

He laughs, eyes glancing down to where he throbs inside you.

“You think this is the best time to bring this back up, sweetheart?”

Shifting enough to make his breath hitch, you flash your own big smile.

“I do.”

Glancing at his watch, he quietly huffs as he mulls over his options.

“California?”

“Yes”

“During peak travel season…”

“Yup”

“For a holiday only you celebrate?”

“In a country you don't wanna revisit. I know, it’s not ideal.”

“So we’re doing it because?”

“Because it’s for me, John. We’re doing it for me. So I can go home.” Your smile is pleading.

He gives a small nod, lifting your hand off his chest and kissing the back of it.

“Okay. I’ll call Sparks and let him know we’re coming.”

“It’s okay! I’ll just text him-” You can’t control your smile, damn near flying off the bed to grab your phone if it weren’t for Price hooking an arm around you and flipping you beneath him.

“-You can text him once we’re done here. I still have another fifteen minutes with you.”

Admittedly, you didn’t call Shane until the following morning.

With Price on your side, it was easy getting everything in order. He dealt with the logistics- plane tickets, hotels, rental cars- while you did the fun part.

Helping the boys pack.

Kyle was by far the easiest. He naturally had good style, all you’d needed to do was inform him of the typical San Diego weather and how to transition those outfits into something a little cooler for when you’d venture up to Los Angeles.

Simon and Price came next. Simon’s was physically easier, just more mental gymnastics. Despite being in many’a hot biome before, he refused to admit his all black ensemble just wouldn’t do. Cargo pants and combat boots weren’t adequate pool party attire, especially when you knew he’d want to prove his usefulness attending to anything he possibly could (you prayed Shane had fixed the dishwasher leak or you knew you wouldn’t be seeing Simon until well past sunset). Price was more physically demanding. He didn’t care much what you dressed him in, he trusted you enough to ensure he stepped outside looking handsome- you’re 99% sure someone had told him about the ‘girlfriend effect’ and he just ran with it. The difficult part was actually buying the clothes. He had no problem handing his card over, but he didn’t seem to want to send sizes, measurements, color preferences, anything of use. You’d resorted to taking a measuring tape to his biceps as he oversaw drill exercises, the width of his shoulders as he sat doing paperwork, the length of each limb as he stood at the gym’s cable machine.

Johnny was quite a bit more difficult. Having been to your home in LA a few times before, he knew how hot it’d get in the dead of summer and thus decided it was prime time to dress in nothing but swim trunks and his favorite pair of vans. Despite being told numerous times that he’d need to pack at least one shirt, every time you checked his suitcase that shirt seemed to have vanished. Your only saving grace was Price’s scolding when he’d gone over the group’s tax write offs and seen the recurring £5.25 Tesco charge for a single men’s t-shirt.

Still, somehow you’d all managed to make it in one piece. And best of all, without a single complaint.

Price stood at the grill chatting with Griggs about various meat charring techniques while Ghost supervised refereed the game of chicken Soap and Gaz were playing with the rest of the Demon Dogs.

The liquor was free flowing and gave you the opportunity to utilize this annual event for what it truly was- a chance to check up on everyone.

And who better to do it with than your closest confidant and his therapist wife.

Convenient, really.

“How’ve you been, kid?”

Nodding as you glance over at Johnny balancing Kyle upon his shoulders, you can’t help but smile.

“We’ve had our moments. Can’t complain, though.”

Alison nods, and you see her head tilt ever so slightly. She’s going into work mode as best she can without raising your suspicions. She’s well trained, probably what’s saved her marriage with Shane. To her dismay, you are also well trained.

“How do you see your future together?"

“Alison, you'd know better than most that people like us don’t get futures.”

“You can spare her the melodramatic self loathing, she’ll just whack you upside the head.”

She glares at Shane’s retort, gives him that ‘stop joking I’m trying to fix shit’ look you’ve seen so many times before.

“I guess I haven’t thought about it. Genuinely. I think it’ll be good though. I love him… and all that mushy shit you’re dying to hear me say.”

“Okay. Well, that’s a start. What about the rest of the task force? Do you think you work well as a team?”

“Oh yeah, we’re a well oiled machine. My doing, of course. Successful or not, our missions can always be described as top tier.”

“And how about off-mission? Do you get along with everyone?”

You fight the urge to glance over at the four men whose hands you’d put your entire life into in more ways than one.

“Uh, yeah. We’re good.”

“Good?”

“Yeah.” You shrug.

Her response is cut off before she could even start it, two shorts car honks bouncing off the wood of the open side gate leading to the front of the property. She cranes her neck to see the car from her position in the backyard, just catching the conversation between Raines and his wife as they begin to unload the car.

Alison turns back to you after waving hello, pointing a finger and making a stern face.

“We’re not done here.”

“Aye Aye ma’am.” You jokingly salute her as you internally thank Raines’ kids for making him late to every event he’s ever been invited to.

You and Shane wave to the couple as she walks up to say her greetings, Shane walking towards the cooler to grab two beers.

“I warned her against interrogating you. But we all know how she feels about listening to me.”

“She’s lucky. She’s the only one that can ignore you and call you a dumbass without repercussion. Sometimes I envy her.”

Popping off the cap, he makes his way to two lounger seats off in the corner of the fenced backyard, plopping down with a sigh.

“Gonna have to retire soon. Or take up being a desk jockey. Whatever keeps my knees from going out.”

“Not showing up to your PT appointments, Sparks? I do recall you scolding me for doing the same.”

“I’ve been showing up, that’s the problem. Ain’t bouncing back like I used to.”

You nod in understanding. You’re not even that old and the aches had already settled in. The military really does take your best years.

“Alright, kid. Enough stalling. How’ve you really been doing?”

“I told you, Johnny and I have been good-”

“-I don’t mean your relationship. I know you two are doing good. God knows I’d be getting a call from MacTavish asking how to fix it if y’all weren’t. I mean about the mission.”

“Oh. Yeah, no. It was fine. It’s over.”

“Heard it was a rough one up top.”

“Uh, yeah. Always is, I guess. We would’ve loved to have traded places with you.”

“Don’t underestimate the stairs, kid. Was damn near out of breath by the time we’d gotten up there.”

You let out a hum, more of an acknowledgement than an agreement.

“I know it’s hard for you to sit and watch. But you gotta remember your roots, Water.”

A snort escapes you, humor and nostalgia behind it.

“Haven’t heard you call me that in what, five years?”

“You retired it. You may call me an asshole but I do have a heart.”

“Well-”

“-Don’t change the subject, Carrots.”

“You know I’m still mad you told Kyle-”

“-Rabbit. Come on. Talk to me, kid.”

He stares you down, gives that same stern look you’d always seen after cracking a joke a little too soon after a mission gone awry.

“Nightmares?”

“A couple.” You murmured with a shrug.

“Just a couple?”

“A few.” You manage another murmur.

He studies your side profile a moment longer before trailing his eyes towards your line of vision.

Kyle sits on the pool ledge right where the deep end becomes standable again, using his dry hand to feed Johnny chips from the paper plate he teeters on his thigh. Every time Soap gestures as he speaks, pool water flings from his position standing in front of Kyle’s shins and onto the plate.

Shane thinks back to the first time you’d shown up to an event like this. He watched you, a newly-appointed baby-faced private first class awkwardly clutching a plate with a burger you had no intention of eating, and was reminded of how out of place you had felt in this small sliver of normalcy.

He thinks back to how utterly determined you seemed to not make friends, to not form attachments.

He thinks back to how, despite your reservations, you found yourself slowly easing into the environment.

Despite being so quick to adapt, you’d never been fond of change. And you couldn’t be more different now from the person you were before.

He thinks about how embarrassing it was for you to admit you'd even been having nightmares, let alone what they were about.

“Ok kid. I’ll let you avoid interrogation for now. No use in ruinin’ a good barbeque.”

You pat his knee with an appreciative smile before you heave yourself out of the low chair, setting your sights back onto Kyle as he rejoins Johnny in the pool.

“Hey Rabbit?” You hear Sparks call out after you.

You look back at him over your shoulder.

“Yeah?”

You look at his blank face. You’ve known Shane long enough to tell he doesn’t want to spook you off but is begging for answers. He's giving you the opportunity to tell him on your own volition, no questions asked.

There’s a small demon resting in the back of your throat. He decides now’s a good time to carve at your esophagus. He urges you to spit it out so he can escape his imprisonment in your windpipe. To say what can’t be retracted, to just get it out there.

You stay silent, facing forward again and walking up to Price. He scrubs char off the grill rack, seemingly abandoned by Griggs.

That answers who lost the coin toss.

“Hey Cap,” You bump shoulders with him, tugging on the string of his boonie hat that rests against the back of his neck.

“Hey sweetheart” He mumbles back.

“You look handsome” You whisper with a giddy smile.

“Yeah?”

“Mmhmm”

“Hungry yet?”

“Only for you, big daddy” You manage to get out between a laugh and an over the top wink, just narrowly missing the way he goes to swat at you.

“Behave, Rabbit.”

“I always do, sir” You nearly purr.

As the earlier heat of the day began to cool, the sky painted itself in hues of orange and pink. You were finally feeling contentment settle deep into your bones. Your favorite part was soon and very much worth skipping your main meal, even if Price disagreed.

You and Soap had helped set up a small fire pit in the center of the yard- marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate bars all laid out for s’mores. Kyle, still somewhat in subdued awe of the whole spectacle, watches from your left as the others talked around the fire, their faces illuminated by the steady flame. You watched the way his eyes constantly bounced around, so deeply invested in the stories of your comrades.

Johnny sits between you and Ghost, his usual spot for the last nine months or so since Las Almas. You go to search for Price but are almost startled out of your seat as his arm misses your face by about two inches, draping over your lap a red checkered blanket he’d found thrown over one of the lawn chairs.

You grab his shirt by the collar before he gets the chance to pull away, pulling him down to kiss his cheek.

It was risky, there was no guarantee everyone outside of you five had been distracted by the sudden start of the neighbors fireworks, but you couldn’t really find it in yourself to care at that moment.

Grabbing the metal rod Johnny holds out for you, you shove the marshmallow on the prongs and lick the stickiness off your fingertips. You’d always hated the residue, but the practicality of Johnny hand feeding you the squishy candy didn’t negate how sickeningly adorable it was to witness.

“Care for a s’more, Ghost?” you asked, leaning forward and holding out a stick with a perfectly roasted marshmallow.

He looked at the stick, then at you, and finally at the fire. It was a simple, almost childlike gesture, but there was something undeniably comforting about it. He took the stick from you with a small nod.

Johnny was already assembling the graham crackers and chocolate for him, adding an additional little chocolate square in the center.

Simon holds the dessert, examining it on all sides before looking up at the group before him. No one is paying any attention to the three of you, something you’d requested from both your old team and Price and Gaz.

You nod as encouragingly as you can when he scans the group once more, whispering just enough to be heard by him.

“It’s alright Simon. Go ahead.”

His black surgical mask is only down for a second before half his face is covered again, now with significantly more graham cracker crumbs settling at the bottom of it then before.

He hands the s’more back over to Johnny as he nods his head.

“See? Not so bad, right?”

Ghost looked over at you, your face illuminated by the soft glow of the firelight, and nods once more. “Not bad at all.”

Soap, munching on the last of the s’more, looks over with a smirk.

“Told ya. Next time, we’ll get you on karaoke.”

Simon goes completely deadpan but chuckles softly.

“We’ll see about that.”

-

<3

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[hunnysnoops]

˗ˋ𝕎𝕙𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕋𝕖𝕖𝕥𝕙 𝕋𝕖𝕖𝕟𝕤ˊ˗

Chapter Four: History Eraser

Kyle Broflovski x fem reader

They made their paints by mixing acid wash and lemonade. In my brain I rearrange the letters on the page to spell your name.

Also available on Ao3 and Wattpad!

Premise: A birthday party takes an awry turn

Warnings: crude language and humour / blood / injury / marijuana usage

MASTERLIST

Adam's blood was still soaked into the turf by the time track and field practice was in the process of giving you heat stroke. Each gust of humid wind burned at your throat a little more than the last like someone had set fire to your lungs.

While everyone else was jogging around the track in a leisurely manner, you and Kyle were sprinting like you were headed for the sun.

"What was that?" You call behind you, turning your head just the slightest "I can't hear you, you're falling behind."

"I didn't say anything," Kyle runs up beside you, matching your pace. Ginger curls were sticking to the sweat on his forehead and neck, glistening under the fading light of the day.

"That sounds like something that someone who said something would say," you respond, glancing down at your sneakers pounding against the track before quickening your pace.

"What?" His eyebrows furrow in confusion.

With each step, you fell into a steady rhythm, feet pounding against the track with determination to be just a little better than the boy trailing you. You felt the familiar burn in your muscles, the exhilarating rush of adrenaline as you pushed yourself harder, faster.

The wind whipped through your hair, cooling the sweat on your brow as you pushed past your limits, your lungs burning with every sharp breath. You ignored the overexertion gripping at you, the nausea creeping up like little hands of wind pushing at the back of your throat.

Your thoughts focused solely on the rhythmic beating of your feet against the turf and Kyle. It took what must've been a God's power not to glance around every few seconds to see how close he was to you, how steadily he fell into tempo with your pace.

That day was shaping up to be a particularly nasty one and you were quite literally trying to run away from it. Though no matter how far your legs took you, you were still on the track, Kyle only feet behind you.

It only added to that lingering thought that rested in the back of your head that you weren't anything special, you were just as good as everyone else and you needed some way to prove them wrong.

"Aw, look they're running together," Red says from her spot on the bleachers where she sits with Leslie. You can hear the sarcasm dripping from her voice.  

"Ew, what the hell," you pause looking at Red, you see Kyle ahead and awkwardly jog backwards to create more distance, you only stop completely when you're in front of Red. "We were not."

"So you were racing?"

"No," You scoff "But if we were I would totally win."

"Um, okay, I believe you" She gives Leslie a quick side glance "Are you coming over later?"

"I have a thing," You answer, hands on your hips while you press your lips into a thin line.

"A thing?" Red quirks an eyebrow "Bebe won't be there if that's what you're worried about."

"No, like I actually have a thing," You Answer "Sheila's having a birthday party and I'm obligated to go by my parents."

"Oh," Red nods like everything coming together "A swingers party." She had run a few laps before something more interesting caught her attention then she eventually settled perched on the bleachers with Leslie beside her and a redbull in hand.

"Your parents are swingers?" Leslie asks, dark bangs pinned away from her face.

"No, they're not," You deadpan, any amusement dropping from your face "My parents aren't swingers, they have never swung and they never will."

Red sucks a sharp breath through her teeth before a smile cracks onto her face "Touched a nerve there.”

"No shot," You cross your arms, chest rising and falling as you catch up on lost breath, a group of long-distance runners brushing past behind you.

"I just can't believe you're ditching me for Kyle," Red draws out a deep sigh, teasing you.

A subtle heat rose to your face though you chose to ignore it entirely "Dude, no, I'm ditching you for Kyle's mom." At this, Leslie turns to whisper something to Red before you quickly interject, throwing out one hand in her direction "What could you possibly have to say? I don't even know you."

Leslie swivels her head back to look at you, unsure what to say. Red silently mouths 'Oh my god' one hand slapping over the black headband on her forehead pushing her bangs back. "Sorry?" Leslie breaks the silence.

"Yeah, you should be," You say before bringing your attention back to Red and cutting Leslie out from the equation completely "We still on for Sunday?"

"I'm going to strangle you," Red says, disregarding the question, still stuck on your utter bluntness.

You stick your chin up, exposing your neck "Go ahead." You even brush the stray hairs aside to display your throat like you're ready for her to sink her teeth in. An uneasy quiet settled over the conversation once more as you waited for Red to stay true to her words and strangle you. Of course she doesn't, she just stares at you something like disbelief playing in her eyes. You look at Leslie "We cool?"

"We are." She answers, lips pursed.

"Okay," You say, backing away and carrying on with the run you had initially been focused on, leaving Red and Leslie to watch you lose your breath all over again.

While the younger kids were free to bum around in the basement and play video games, you and Kyle were on the edge of seventeen, not yet adults but you were close enough to intermingle with them and nod with a polite smile while they drone on and on about insignificant things that are massive in their eyes.

After your mother had shown you off to the partygoers in the gauzy white sundress that you reserved only for occasions like this, you had found yourself settled at the dining table amongst the food, scribbling down notes from your binder onto your biology project.

Kyle seemed to have the same idea, he pushed one of the three charcuterie boards aside to make space for his half of the project. He sat silently across from you, the farthest he could get without being dragged into another mindless conversation with someone who held him while he was a baby.

Between the two of you is an abundance of food, everyone seemed to have brought a dish for Sheila's birthday, you couldn't imagine that it would all be finished in one night. You had, of course, a little bit of everything piled on a side plate.

As you worked away, being sure your drawn diagram was perfected and every word had been spaced apart perfectly, you tried your best not to glance at Kyle who seemed absolutely undisturbed while he chewed absent-mindedly on his brownie.

"Oh, look at you two," your dad walked into the dining room with a smile on his face "I can't believe you're getting along."

"Me neither," Kyle answers without looking up from his work. While your mother had stuffed you into your Sunday best, Kyle was looking ready for church that he didn't attend, a white button-up tucked into black dress pants.

"Whatcha working on?" Your dad scooped some pasta salad onto his plate and proceeded to peek over your shoulder, peering down at your paper before nodding like he understood. "Nice, good job, kiddo," He gave you a firm pat on the shoulder before pointing a finger gun at Kyle "And Kyle, looking sharp."

"Thank you, sir," Kyle offers him a tight-lipped smile. In recent years he had almost mastered charming other kid's parents, especially yours who gushed on and on about how good of an influence he was.

"Oh, no need for that, buddy," Your dad waves him off before leaving the room.

"Sir?" You look at Kyle, an unimpressed look clear across your face "Kiss ass."

"I'm not even going to dignify that with a response," He says, shifting his focus to the project in front of him.

"You just did, pretentious douchebag," You mutter under your breath, looking down at your own work. "Dignify," You mock, reaching back for the brownies. Something about them had tasted familiar, somewhat nostalgic like those organic sweets your mother would bring back from the grocery store, which you had written off as being gluten-free or something along those lines.

After roughly forty minutes you had finished not only your half of the biology assignment but all of your homework for your other classes as well. You had looked past the doorway, heard the voices of middle-aged parents, and the grating sound of obnoxious laughter and decided to bum around on your phone.

Empty-headed, you stared drowsily at your timeline, constantly refreshing it in the hopes that something more interesting would pique your interest. It was only seven, the sun was still in the midst of setting yet you felt the strong urge to sleep, maybe it had been over-exertion from track or boredom telling you to close your eyes so you could wake up to something better.

You were too in your own head to notice Kyle who had long finished his assignment and now had his arms crossed in front of him flat on the table, chin resting on top of them, head slightly tilted while he stared at you through the plethora of food.

His mouth abruptly stretched with a yawn, this brought your attention over to him. "What the fuck are you looking at?"

"Nothing," Kyle pushed himself off the table until he was back sitting straight in his chair. He put one hand on his back while he stretched, his neatly tucked-in button-up coming loose from the hem of his pants in the process.

The familiar photo of Remy the rat was now displayed on your dim phone, the meme of him choking that had been floating around the internet since 2007 "Do you think Ratatouille has themes of racism and prejudice?"

"No," Kyle answers, ripping the leg of a rotisserie chicken away from the carcass and tearing the flesh away with his perfect teeth.

"No one thinks a rat can cook, sound familiar?"

"No."

"Anyone can cook," You state the quote like it emphasizes the odd point you're trying to make.

"Ratatouille is not about racism."

"How about when Remy's dad says 'This is what happens when a rat gets too comfortable around humans' and then he's like 'We look out for our own kind, Remy,'" You made sure to throw an awful Italian accent over Djangos parts.

"A movie about a rat making spaghetti is not racist."

"I didn't say it was racist, I said it has themes of racism and prejudice."

"It doesn't."

"Immigration and assimilation perhaps?"

"Stop."

"Why?"

"Because I can't think right now, I'm so tired," his hands find their way into his curls while his elbows rest on the table.

You narrow your eyes at him "Are you on drugs or something?"

"No, it's fucking late, I'm tired," He repeats.

"It's seven," You answer, face straight though your eyelids were growing heavy like they were being pulled down. You rub the back of your hand over your eyes like it's going to wipe away the feeling of daze and set you straight.

Weary you lean back in your chair, slamming your phone face down on the table. You put one hand to rest on your brow like a salute to block out the overwhelming light overhead. It was this moment where you craved nothing more than your bed, to lay your head down on satin pillowcases and let sleep consume you completely.

"This is fucking stupid," You look down awkwardly at the neckline of your dress, your chin pressing against your chest as you do so, you then use one hand to gesture to Kyle in his once wrinkle-free button "We look like we're in a cult, the kind that drinks Koolaid,"

"It was Flavour-Aid actually," He corrects.

"What the fuck is Flavour-Aid?"

"Koolaid, basically."

"Okay," You say, sinking deeper into the uncomfortable spruce chair.

"Who am I really, beyond my thoughts, memories, and experiences?" Kyles's eyes are squinted as he stares past you into absolutely nothing, his thoughts entirely somewhere else.

"Kyle Broflovksi."

"Yeah, what?"

"No, that's who you are, fucking idiot."

"Ah," He nods and the two of you fall back into stillness. Neither of you acknowledged each other for a few minutes, you had forgotten Kyle was there at all and his mind was beginning to fill with existential dread.

"Hey, dudes," In walks your uncle Richie, a cheesy smile across his face, from this alone, you can tell he's been spreading his corny humour. "Didn't know you two were still in here," He was your mother's youngest sibling, being in his mid-thirties; also known as your grandparent's accidental pregnancy.

"Nice," You answer like it's cohesive in any way.

Richie doesn't seem to gather any issue from your response, he just grabs a paper plate and begins to fill it up with all of the goods though he pauses when his eyes fall on the brownies, smile faltering. "Who put these here?"

"My mom," Kyle says.

"His mom," you point at him, repeating his statement.

"Shit, these are for the after party if you know, you know," Richie puts his plate of food down in exchange for the brownie platter "Did you guys catch who ate these?" He must've been the most under-dressed of everyone at the party with his grey sweatpants and Metallica tee poking out from beneath his red zip-up.

You and Kyle stare dead straight at each other, the realization washing over you. It wasn't sleep threatening to take you under but marijuana causing your vision to move in frames and lull you to rest and loosen your tongue.

Richie doesn't fail to catch this exchange "C'mon guys," He sticks a hand out in exasperation and you can't miss the disappointment on his face.

"Uh, we didn't know they were laced," You narrow your eyes at him, never did you think you'd side with Kyle.

"I know, I know, this is just fucked up," He runs a hand through his hair, forcing it through any tangles.

"Fucked up?" Kyle's eyes are half-lidded though he still seems furious. "We're high on my mom's birthday and there's like thirty fuck ass adults in the other room, we're getting busted."

"Nah, it's cool," Richie says and you're unsure if he's assuring you and Kyle or himself. "You're a hophead anyway so you should be a pro at pretending to be sober." He gestures at you and then turns his attention to Kyle "We've been to a handful of barbeques together and I don't think either of us wants to get in trouble right now."

"This is fucking sick," Kyle mutters, burying his head into his hands.

"I know," You nod with the glint of a smile playing on your face. As nervous as you were over the fact you would have to act sober until the party wrapped up, you couldn't ignore the comedic aspect of the situation.

"No," Kyle shoots you a glare "Not sick as in cool, sick in a bad way like I'm sick."

"You guys are teenagers, you do these things it's like a rite of passage and your parents did it all the time when they were your age," Once again, Richie tries to shrug off the circumstances.

"Get accidentally drugged by their uncle?"

"No, uh-not that, I meant getting high in general."

"How much is in them anyways?" You ask.

He shrugs "Like roughly twenty-five mg or so."

"In a single brownie?" Kyle presses for clarification with wide eyes to which Richie nods.

"Twenty-five milligrams?" You tried not to yell, this had shaken you to what felt like sobriety for only a few seconds  "I didn't know you were fucking Walter White."

"Hey, man, I left them wrapped up in the fridge with a sticky note that said 'do not eat', I didn't think his mom was gonna put them out."

"Why wouldn't you leave them in your car, dude?" You're looking at him with a tilted gaze, head resting in the palm of one of your hands.

"Temperature sensitive," he says pointing out the fudgy brownies melting into brown sludge like it had been nuked in the microwave.

"What the fuck?" Your mouth falls ajar "Have you ever made a brownie before?

"They usually don't melt," Kyle adds.

"Watch it," Richie had taken this sting straight to heart "They're supposed to be fudgy and you two are the ones who ate them."

"Oh my god, we ate them," Kyle says under his breath, eyes focused on the oak table in front of him, studying each groove. His attention breaks, and he glances around at the food laid before him then reaches to scoop some macaroni onto his grubby paper plate.

"Slow down greedy gut, did you forget you're diabetic?" You slap his hand away from the cheesy macaroni.

"Yeah," He puts the spoon down "I did."

Richie takes a deep breath out "Man, you guys are roasted."

"Time for the family photo!" Sheila yells from the living room, her distinct accent rising over the seemingly endless murmurs.

"Okay, guys, just remember to be cool and act sober, okay?" He tries for a smile, sticking his thumb up and glancing back and forth between the two of you for confirmation "Sober, so good?"

"Relax," You push yourself up from the table, brushing any crumbs away from the skirt of your dress "We're fine."

"Alright," Richie turns on his heels, exiting the dining room with the tray of brownies still in hand.

The moment you and Kyle walked through the doorway, you felt like everyone was staring at you despite not one person turning their head in your direction. Kyle's family had already been sorting themselves out for the photo, he quietly slipped in there, giving his mom a quick hug before smiling at the phone which was being held by Sandra, a woman with far too much wine in her system who took the temporary role of photographer far too seriously.

You settled against a wall next to Weston who had also been suffocating in overly formal clothing. One thought ran through your mind as the Broflovski's smiled for their picture, don't act high.

"What are you doing?" Weston asked, looking up at you with a sneer.

"Huh?"

"You look like taxidermy, why are you doing that with your face?"

You hadn't noticed that the idea of sober you were trying to project was eyes as wide as the moon and a stone face. At Weston's words, you squinted your eyes slightly and began to grin like this was any more natural than the other face you had been making.

"You're weird," Weston tells you before he looks back at the Broflovski family. He wanted to duck back down into Ike's room to hide from everyone as much as you wanted to steal your dad's keys and drive to Dairy Queen.

"Okay, now let's do a silly one," Sandra smiled brightly, she had really drawn this out much longer than it needed to. After the family scrambled to do something vaguely comedic, Sheila motioned for your parents to join.

After what felt like a century, Sandra finally handed the phone back off to Sheila. Just when you're sure that the exchange has ended, Sheila speaks up "I want a picture of the kids together."

Your mom makes a pouty face, placing a hand on Sheila's shoulder "That's a great idea, we haven't taken one of them all together in ages."

"Let's get you two in the back then Weston and Ike can go in front," Sheila's directing you in front of an audience of coworkers and family friends.

Weston had one arm slung around Ike who did the same while Kyle stood stiffly behind his brother. You kept your tradition of keeping your distance from Kyle, standing one metre away from him and your brothers, hands clasped in front of you.

"Sweetie, you aren't in frame," Sheila tells you.

You nod but don't do anything beyond that, you just stay in the same spot that you had initially been in. "Jellybean, maybe you should move closer to Kyle," Your mom smiles softly, though her eyes are telling you that you should probably listen to her.

Taking a step that must've taken you a distance of an inch, you smile at the camera like this has resolved the issue.

"Um, Jellybean," Your mom had a begrudging smile on her face "I meant to stand next to him, behind your brother."

"I'm okay," you say and for a change have no animosity behind your words, you truly were okay with where you were.

Weston's eyebrows had furrowed in confusion as he watched you with a blissfully ignorant smile on your face. His arm was falling asleep, intertwined with Ikes. Kyle was staring at you, just as everyone else who had paid a speck of attention to the photoshoot was.

"Nope, closer," Your mom gestures for you to move in.

She does so rapidly until you take another side step, albeit larger than your last one though you still stood awkwardly out to the side like you were photobombing.

"For fuck sake," Your mom utters under her breath so quietly that no one had picked up on it. "He's not poison, get in there."

"I believe you meant to say venomous," You shuffle your feet again until you are standing next to where you should be, an awkward gap between Kyle where you were meant to be posing behind your brother.

"Don't do this right now, Jellybean," She says through gritted teeth, trying to uphold her composure for the sake of Sheila and the grace of your family.

"Just one quick picture," Sheila tells you, she's still holding up the phone, finger hovering above the shutter button.

Before you can pull any more nonsense that seemed perfectly reasonable in your altered state, you feel a hand slink around your waist. Kyle's hand rested on the outside of your midriff, fingers sinking into your soft skin. Your mind hadn't even processed this fact when he pulled you into him, your body briefly crashing against his. Kyle flashes the camera a movie star smile while you stare up at him, eyebrows furrowed and eyes incredulous. You looked like you were gearing up to yell at him.

Click!

The very second the picture is taken Kyle drops his hand from its spot on your waist and turns to walk away. While the others disperse, you stand stationary and watch Kyle disappear into the blinding light of the kitchen. It was impossible to ignore the heat creeping up your neck and the warmth flushing your cheeks as your hand retraced where his touch lingered.

Against better judgment, you follow him into the kitchen, unsure of what your plan is, but you do it regardless. He's alone in there with a middle-aged man who's speaking to someone on the phone and pays no attention to where Kyle rifles through the fridge.

"That had to be a misdemeanour of some kind," You say, arms crossed while you stand behind the fridge door.

"What are you talking about?" He looks up at you, grabs a jug of water and closes the fridge door.

"That is really fucked up," You add.

"You're kind of in my orbit right now," He holds a hand out and moves it in a circle.

"Then release me, boy." You watch as Kyle reaches into the cupboard to pull out a glass and pour water from the jug into it until it's on the brink of overflowing. He puts the jug down next to his glass and uses one hand to lean against the island.

He swishes his free hand around like he's casting a spell "I release you," Kyle then reaches for the jug instead of the glass he had poured and takes a long swig.

You shake your head watching him drink from the pitcher as if it were a cup "That's not right." You weren't sure what Kyle's tolerance was, you had never smoked with him before, only seeing him take a couple of hits at parties.

"You're not right," He answers, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand and putting the jug back down on the marble countertops.

"One time I made you in the sims and then I made you go swimming in the pool so I could take the ladder out and kill you," You say, leaning against the kitchen island. The man on the phone takes a brief time to cast you a judgemental glance before going back to his phone call.

"Did I die?"

"Nah, they took that feature out so you kinda just climbed out from the side," You answer "I did make you bankrupt and homeless though."

"So I just wonder the streets?" He asks to which you nod "I bet I'm fighting crime."

"No, you just walk around and your hygiene is really bad, you're like visibly dirty."

Kyle freezes for a second, staring past you, he blinks his eyes out rapidly and holds a dinger out to hush you "I think I can hear myself blink." He continues to open and close his eyes "It sounds wet and squishy."

"Gross," You say, letting yourself lean in deeper on the island until you're almost bent in half, across from Kyle.

He runs a hand through his hair and then begins to twirl one finger in his ginger curls before he pats the top of his head "I think I need to cut my hair."

"I think you need to cut yourself," The words fall from your mouth like honey melting from the sun to weigh down the wings of Icarus. His mouth is slightly ajar when you look up to meet his wild gaze. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't say that, don't cut yourself," Had you been sober, you wouldn't have apologized, you would've doubled down and made the statement a million times worse.

"You're an asshole," He says simply.

"So are you," You respond, voice lazy and words drawn out. The man on the phone ends his call, gripping his cell phone like you were going to try and take it from him. He struts past you and Kyle, glaring at the both of you.

"Did we just blow our cover?"

"No, that's Marty, he's an alcoholic so if he tells anyone anything I'll say he's been drinking again," You shrug the question off.

"Is that right? Like morally," He clarifies. "Should we just admit we're high? or maybe that would be bad morally if we got Richie in trouble for something he didn't do." You can see the gears turning in Kyle's head, the way he's analyzing the situation like it's the equation that'll either end the world or save it "Nah, I don't wanna get grounded on my mom's birthday, that's kinda gay."

"That's super gay."

"It's so hot in here," The topic switches once again as Kyle is working on unbuttoning his shirt, taking a deep breath. The very second you notice your eyes linger a moment too long on his hands your head swerves to look at a sign that reads 'This kitchen is seasoned with love' You remember when Sheila bought it, she thought it was hilarious and brought you into the kitchen to see it.

Your mind trails back to the compromising state you and Kyle had been discovered in after the little forest expedition. The interrogation you had to endure, not only with Mr. Waterman but with Wendy as well made you want to hammer nails into your ears. "If it was anyone else but Wendy and our fucking teacher who found us, the rumours would be nuts."

"And that's the worst thing?"

"People thinking that we've slept together? Yeah, it is the worst thing. I'd probably shoot myself and write your name on the wall in my blood."

"How high are you right now?" he squints his eyes.

You shrug "Higher than I think, perhaps."

"Your eyes are kind of insane right now," He points at your face and in turn, you just rub them, too lazy to go check.

"Yours are almost as bright as your hair."

"This isn't even my final form yet."

"What the fuck," You stare at him blankly. You let yourself down the side of the island, spine scraping against it until you drop to the cold tile floors. The frigidness pressing against the back of your calves.

You tuck your head into your hands like it'll magically make you sober. You didn't want to be high anymore or at all that night. You needed a clear head, for your limbs to not feel so loose so you could go back to shutting your thoughts away, so they would die in your throat and never be said.

Kyle has plopped himself onto a stool by the island, peeling a banana from the fruit bowl with precision like he was defusing a time bomb. It seemed like he had entirely forgotten that you were there the second you went out of his sight.

It was nowhere close to your first time smoking though you had taken a little tolerance break for the sake of finals and it was hitting you hard. Everything seemed like it wasn't real like you were in a set where things were hand-crafted to fit the scene. You look down at your hands, balling them up into fists to see if you can feel anything. When all the sensation you receive is a light tap, you put one finger into your mouth and bite, there rested the confirmation that you weren't in a simulation.

What your mind was really craving was a two-leader bottle of diet coke and to curl up on the couch, shrouded in darkness and watch Over the Hedge. You reach a hand up the edge of the countertop to pull yourself up, in the midst of doing so, your foot slips and you are sent toppling over. Your body careened forward, face heading straight for the unforgiving edge of the countertop. There was a sickening crack as your nose collided with the hard surface, followed by a sharp, searing pain that shot through her skull. You collapse back down to the ground, eyes scrunched shut and hand covering your surely felt like a mangled nose.

"What was that?" Kyle turns his head to where he was sure you were though you were no longer in sight. He pries himself away from the stool and makes his way around the island to investigate "What's-oh my fucking god."

"Do you think it's broken?" You ask, moving your hand away to display the nose. The nasal bone itself seemed to be fine, but what rang as concerning was the gash over it that was leaking blood.

"Holy shit, we need to get your parents," He immediately moves to leave but you grab his leg to keep him in place.

"No," you say in what you intended to be a firm voice though it came off as more scared than anything else "We're high, underage, I hate hospitals, and urgent care is expensive."

"You're bleeding from your fucking face."

Gingerly, you poke around the area you had hit, fighting the urge to wince to prove that it wasn't that bad "See? We're good, just a bit of blood." The marijuana had eased the pain in just the slightest by offering the distraction of everything all at once, you were sure it would feel like hell the second you shook your mind clear.

"No, we aren't good, you're fucked up," He says.

"Kyle," Your tone shifts, absolutely serious "My dad will beat the shit out of me if he finds out I'm high, I'll go in the morning if it's actually bad," Truthfully, your dad probably would do some damage if the truth came out. Not only that, but he would bar Richie from seeing you or Weston ever again and your mom was something of a snitch who shared every waking thought with your dad.

He looks down at your figure on the floor, one hand pinching your nose to catch any blood that threatened to spill onto your white dress. His rational thoughts were telling him to rat the both of you out and get you to a hospital though the side of him hazed said it was fine. "You have to go in the morning."

When you move your hand, the blood begins to gush not only from your nostrils but the gash on your nose bridge like juice from cherries that had been torn apart. Now you had a red dress to match your red eyes.

"Yeah, okay cool," You say with a sigh of relief, awkwardly turning on the ground to push yourself up without having your face be inches away from Kyle's. "I need to go upstairs in the bathroom and fix this," What you were trying to get across was that you needed to at least bandage it with the first-aid kit, discreetly.

"What are you going to tell your parents when you go home and you have a huge honker on your face?"

"Um, that I got a nosebleed or that-I don't fucking know, I'll figure it out, fuck face," You answer as you stand up. With a yawn, you shifted to get up, your elbow swinging out in a careless motion. Unfortunately, Kyle had chosen that exact moment to lean forward to grab his phone off the counter, his face perilously close to your elbow's path. Adding another notch to the misfortune of that night, your elbow collided with Kyle's left eye with an audible thud.

Kyle recoiled, his hand instinctively flying to his injured eye as he let out a pained grunt. Your eyes widened in horror as you realized what you had done "Oh my god, it looks like I hit you."

"You did hit me," The anger in his voice isn't unmissable, it's dripping with something that borders between irritation and rage.

"Not on purpose," You retort, quickly wiping away the blood where it pooled above your lip. It had already made it down your face to dribble down your neck and chest before it soaked into the neckline of your dress.

Kyle winced as he gingerly touched the tender skin around his eye, his breath catching in his throat at the searing pain pulsating beneath his fingertips. "Fuck," he mutters.

You felt a tickle in your nose, the pressure builds, the discomfort intensifying with every breath then there came the dreaded sneeze. Instead of the usual sense of relief, there's only pain. A sharp, searing pain radiates from your nose, sending shockwaves of agony through your skull, a splatter of blood from your nose now on Kyles's once pristine button-up.

Your eyes squeeze shut, tears instinctively beginning to push from your eyes as you struggle to regain your composure. The sound that escapes your lips is not the usual sneeze, but a strangled gasp, a testament to the torment wreaked upon your nasal passages. "Fuck, oh my fucking god!" You scream, hands moving upward to cover your nose in the position of a prayer. "Fuck, that fucking hurts, pussy licking cunt face, fuck!"

"Jesus Christ," His voice is breathy, he hadn't entirely comprehended what you had said, his hazy brain was more focused on the throbbing pain enveloping his eye and the blood splattered on his white button-up.

A woman swings around the corner, Alysha, you barely remember what she looked like eight years prior before she bleached her hair to the point it was fried and filled her face with Botox and fillers. "Is everything okay in here?"

"No!" You shout, the vexation wasn't intention but you never thought sneezing would hurt so bad.

"What the hell," Any rage in Kyle's voice was replaced by fear as he stared at Aylsha's face. He looked like a deer caught in headlights though he couldn't bring himself to look away from her pillow face. She had so much filler to the point where her skin would turn loose if it were to be dissolved, her lips were the most obviously overfilled, looking minutes away from bursting. "I think as a society we're way too okay with that."

You brush past him, grabbing his wrist to pull him along. "we're going to the hospital." You're opinion on going to the hospital had changed in an instant. You could've managed if you hadn't sneezed, it felt worse than the initial break. Your senses are overwhelmed by the intensity of the tormenting sensation.

"Why do people do that to themselves?" He lowers his voice.

"Doesn't matter," You dismiss, dragging him into the living room where the majority of the partygoers were gathered. "Danger!" You shout and everyone turns to look at you, startle clear across their wrinkled faces. You split into a grin "There's actually no danger but I need to go to the hospital."

"Jellybean, what happened?" Your mother places her wineglass on the coffee table and rushes over to you, cradling your face in both of her hands while she examines you. Your father isn't far behind, jogging slowly like he was in an action movie, it would've been more efficient to walk over to you.

"We need to go to the hospital," You say simply, clamping your eyes shut so she won't see the redness.

"Kyle!" Sheila exclaims, eyebrows furrowing as she approaches him. She looks up at her tall son, gently touching his swelling eye, red from irritation "My little boy, what happened?" Sheila looks at you, the gash on your nose and the slightly crooked look of it "Did you two fight?"

"No," you answer abruptly, pointing at Richie who was working through a slice of cake "He's sober, he can take us to the hospital."

Richie responds with a nod before he goes back to his cake "Ready to go when you are."

"I just don't understand how this happened," your dad remarks. With each passing second that you weren't on the way to the emergency room, you grew more irritated.

"Kyle, did you hit her?" Gerald stands behind Sheila, his face stony.

"No," You interject "I hit him actually, on accident and I fell and smashed my head on the kitchen island and it really fucking hurts so can we please go?"

"Are you high?" Gerald leans in the slightest to see your red eyes to which you inch back.

"Are you?" Your dad's demeanour changes as he crosses his arms.

All eyes fell on you and you quickly scrambled for an answer, glancing at Richie who looked as panicked as ever before you fell to the conclusion "No, we're teenagers."

Everyone looks either around or at you in confusion over your chosen words. They wondered what exactly you meant by that and you wondered "So why are your eyes red?" Your dad asks.

"It doesn't matter, they need medical attention," Sheila tries to dismiss the topic.

"It's called life, little bro," You clap your hands together like you said something groundbreaking, a small smirk playing on your blood-stained face.

"This is ridiculous," Your dad shakes his head. You glance over at Kyle who's fallen nonverbal, letting his mom poke around his face.

"Because life isn't just all flowers and sausages but we're making the most out of it Gerald so why don't you live a little?" You raise your hands up in the air; in your mind, you are trailblazing by delivering this odd string of words to a crowd of wrinkled faces who watch you like a spectacle. "I would like to get my nose sewn back together.”

"Jellybean, you are acting so strange," Your mother says, catching on to the fact that you might be under the influence.

"It's because of blood loss," Richie cuts in, beginning to usher you and Kyle to the front door. "Don't worry, I'll take good care of them."

You turn your head to stare down your parents as you leave though Kyle's lanky figure blocks them out entirely. He trails behind you, one hand on the small of your back to keep you moving forward. You nearly shudder under his touch but don't make a fight to shake him off.

Sitting in the sterile confines of the hospital waiting room, you couldn't help but feel a mixture of relief and anticipation. Just moments ago, you had emerged from the emergency room, your broken nose carefully repaired by the skilled hands of doctors. Now, as you awaited your discharge, a sense of tiredness was creeping up on you. You had been there entirely too long though the edibles had yet to wear off.

Your nose was still tender, wrapped in layers of gauze and tape, a constant reminder of the trauma it had endured. But beneath the bandages lay four stitches are what was sure to be a nasty bruise. All you could process was that you really wanted a cigarette.

Kyle walks into the waiting room, he scans the few other people in there before his eyes settle on you. He stood still for a moment, thinking whether or not it would be weird if he sat next to you, he decided that it was and opted for the row opposite to you.

Your eyes wander down to his hands where he clutches a little orange bottling, rattling slightly with movement from the pills inside "You got meds already? They just gave me a slip to take to the pharmacy."

"Yup," He shakes the bottle "Did you know that you cracked my cheekbone?"

"No," you narrow your eyes "I don't have X-ray vision."

Silence hangs between the two of you, the only sound being background noise from other patients and nurses. Now that the heat of the painful moment had disbanded you were left unsure of how to talk to Kyle. You didn't even know if you had only shown him the smallest speck of kindness or if he had put his hand around your waist purely from the influence of the drugs.

"I can't believe my dad thought I would hit you," Kyle said the first thing that came to mind, staring at the bandage in the center of your face.

"I can't believe my parents cared more about me being high than having a mangled nose."

"That was kinda crazy."

"This is all kinda crazy," you answer, trying to keep your face as still as possible to avoid the pain of scrunching or moving your nose. "Are you going to tell everyone that I hit you?"

"Not if you don't want me to."

"Please don't," Your voice is hardly above a whisper when you ask this. "It was bad enough when I hit Cartman," That was true, Cartman had made you out to sound like a violent criminal in every rendition of the story he told. He had fabricated so many aspects of it that it seemed more like fiction than reality, even if people didn't believe him, it wouldn't stop them from spreading it.

"Okay," His tone matches the softness of yours "I won't."

"Thanks," You turn your gaze toward the ground, scraping your mind for something else to say so you don't feel like you're drowning beneath unsaid words. "We should smoke and then enter a hotdog eating contest."

"That's a good idea."

"Do you think we're the only ones who've had that idea?"

"I think if we smoked and went to a hot dog eating contest, everyone would be high."

"Do you think I would be a cat or a dog?" You change the topic again, not on purpose but because that was how your brain was functioning.

"I think we would both be dogs," He says with sureness.

"Yeah, maybe you would be like an Australian Sheppard and have gross crusty shit in your eyes because your owners hate you and they never clean you."

"I'm not Australian."

"Well, they don't have Jersey shepherds because I'm pretty sure you can't give dogs spray tans."

"I think I would be a Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever."

"You're not Canadian either and don't make up fake dog breeds, man," You cross your arms.

"It's not fake."

"Totally is, actually, you would be one of those fugly bald dogs that shake all of the time and people adopt them out of pity."

"All dogs are beautiful to me, actually," Kyle says in a matter-of-fact tone like you wouldn't believe his statement.

"Consumerism is so out of hand because how many water bottles do you really need?" You mind once again wondered to things that you had seen online hours prior. What was haunting you was a video of a woman who had collected 78 colours of a reusable water bottle, defeating the purpose of the eco-friendly aspect of it.

He genuinely thinks long and hard about your question "You need one good water bottle, maybe two depending on the circumstances."

"Hey, I have a joke, it's really funny and I just thought of it."

"Shoot."

"If Kyle falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, did he make any sound at all?" You crack an awkward, faltering smile. The second you said it out loud you realized that it wasn't as funny as intended. It was like you were teetering on the verge of sober, your mind so incredibly close to acting like yourself again before it slipped back into the haziness. "Yeah, it was pretty loud actually."

To your surprise, Kyle actually smiles. His lips curve upwards in a perfect arc, revealing a set of teeth that gleam like pearls against the backdrop of his sun-kissed skin. Each tooth is straight and even, with a dazzling whiteness that seems almost too pristine to be real. You couldn't think back to the last time he smiled at something you said without being sarcastic. Digging through your brain you weren't sure that he had ever smiled at you.

You furrow your eyebrows, mouth pulled back in a grimace, eyes squinting like his perfect grin was an offensive sight "Don't smile at me like that." You could feel your jaw tensing "Jesus, don't smile at me at all."

"Hey kids," Richie had returned, coming to your rescue just when you thought you were going to shatter from the conflict in your mind "Brought you these, a little souvenir from the gift shop," He tossed both of you a Garfield stuffed animal. Garfield looks almost frightening, his half-lidded eyes uneven, weird body emaciated, and fur pale like he's been experimenting. You loved it.

"Thanks," You smile up at your uncle, being careful not to let Garfield touch your blood-stained dress. Kyle has a small grin playing on his face as he holds it in his large hands.

"You got it," He gives you a quick thumbs up "So if everyone is in the clear are we good to go? You and Kyle both nod and Richie turns on his heels, swinging an arm in motion for you to follow him, his car keys jingling in one hand.

The automatic doors slid open as the three of you neared them, the night on the other side of them was brisk. As you and Kyle slipped into the back seat of Richie's prius, you couldn't help but cast one more look at him; a final look at the curve of his nose and sharp jaw while you could still write it off as being high.

[the-froschamethyst4]

Shows Up

𖤐Pairing: Step dad! Gaz x Wife! Reader

𖤐Pronouns: She/Her

𖤐Warnings: fluff, language, mostly Kyle, a bit emotional, married couple, children, kissing, short one today

𖤐Summary: Kyle shows up to his step daughters talent show

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"Kyle, we need to get ready to leave," Y/n says, coming out of the bathroom and putting her earrings in.

"I know, I know," Kyle says, putting some shoes on.

"Mama, have you seen my pants?"

"Kai, I laid them out for you."

"Well, I can't find them," Kai says, Y/n heads out of the bedroom and Kai behind her going to his bedroom.

Tonight, Y/n's daughter Skye was doing her schools talent show, she stayed after school to be able to rehearse for what she will be doing, Y/n didn't know what Skye was doing along with Kyle, but Kai knew and kept it a secret for so long.

They needed to get there asap, so they don't miss Skye's part of the show. For a while Y/n was so busy that she could barely show up to support her children, but after meeting Kyle and he helps out a lot, she puts everything on hold for her children.

"Come on, we need to go, now!" Y/n says as they all rushed to the car.

--------

Skye was back stage looking at people coming in a finding their seats, she wanted to see her mom and Kyle and know everything was going to be okay, she wanted to see them.

"Oops, Skye, what are you doing?" Her teacher came around seeing her peak her head from the curtain.

"I wanted to see my mama and my step-dad," she says.

"I promise they will be here," Skye goes to the wings of the stage now. Skye was never afraid to talk in front of people, which is a good trait she didn't pick up from her mother unlike Kai, he's terrified of the thought of getting up on stage in front of hundreds of people.

Y/n, Kyle and Kai had found their seats, Y/n sits between Kyle and Kai. She crosses her legs and Kyle placed his hand on her thigh to let her know everything was going to be okay. Kai plays on Y/n's phone because he was board and Y/n didn't want him on the iPad.

The lights dimmed and the show was starting, the teacher that was hosting the talent show came out and thanked the parents, friends and family for coming and showing up.

Y/n's legs bounces nervous for what her daughter might be doing, Kyle started to play with his fingers nervous as well. Kai gave Y/n her phone back and watched the performances of the kids.

----------

"Okay, thank you Matthew for show us that you can...burp your ABC's," the teacher rubs her temple and let's out a huff. "Up next we have Skye L/n, she wanted to do something special for her step-dad Kyle Garrick."

Kyle looks at Y/n was shock the same with Y/n, they then looked down at Kai, since he knew. He just shakes his head as if he's still not gonna say what it is.

Skye comes on stage, the teacher fixing the microphone to be down at Skye's level. She clears her throat.

"To Kyle Garrick my step dad, so kind, you're in my heart and on my mind. You help me learn and play each day, in your hugs I find my way. You teach me things I didn't know, like how to tie my shoes, you cheer me on with every try, with you I feel like I can fly. You read me stories, you tuck me in, you make me smile with your big grin. I'm so glad you're part of my family, you make my mama smile and laugh everyday, step-dad Kyle, I love you," she finishes, everyone clapped for the 1st grader.

Kyle and Y/n both stood up for her, she looks around for them and could see them right under the darkness even though the light was in her eyes. She waves at them both.

"Wow, that was amazing, Skye, that was such a lovely poem for Kyle and I hope he enjoyed it as well," Skye walks off the stage, going to the wing.

Y/n turns to her husband seeing his eyes were red, his fingers rubbed his eyes, and he was sniffling.

"Aww~ Kyle," Y/n holds his head close to her chest and kissed his temple.

Kyle for the longest time had thought Y/n's kids hated him, Kai took around a month to get use to Kyle and Skye took longer to get use to him, and he couldn't tell when Skye liked him or not, but he guesses she did like him.

----------

After the show Skye held a rose that her teacher gave her, she walks to the rows of seats trying to find where her mom, step-dad and brother were.

"SKYE!" She hears Kai's voice. She smiles and runs up to Kai, he picks her up and quickly drops her back on the ground, she sees Y/n running to her, Y/n picks her daughter up and she looks at Kyle.

"Kyle," she opens her arms and Kyle takes her from Y/n's arms, hugging her tightly.

"I loved the poem, baby," he says, rubbing her back.

"Good, I worked hard on it."

"I know, you did," Kyle kissed Skye's forehead.

---------

At home, Skye and Kai were getting ready for bed, Kyle picked up Skye and took her to her bedroom. He lays her down.

"So, what do you want to read?" Kyle asked.

"Princess and the Pea."

"Okay."

Y/n came into the room after putting Kai down. She leans against the doorframe and looks at Skye cuddled up to Kyle's side as he was reading the book to her.

"The End," Kyle says, looking over to his right seeing Skye was asleep. "Good night, kiddo," he kissed the top of her head and made sure she was comfortable.

"Come on, Kyle," she says, opening her arms and Kyle picks her up taking her to their shared bed.

[wendytestabrat]

kyle LOVES cartman's determined attitude

what i rlly liked abt the end of obesity special was it showed once again how all of the shit kyle acts like he hates about cartman is what he actually loves, as i've talked about before 483836738 times. kyle actually loves cartman's unapologeticness and sass even though he shits on him A LOT for it, evidenced by the the fact that he gets all annoyed when cartman starts suddenly acting good LOL (i.e stunning & brave, all of season 20, and post covid). but mainly what he loves about cartman is his DETERMINATION. as i've talked about before, that's one of the main things C&K have in common is they're both EXTREMELY stubborn and passionate and never give up when they set their mind to something (and i analyzed this in their MBTI types bc they're both Js) even if they're both fighting for completely opposite things and this special RLLY emphasized how much kyle shares that trait in common with cartman when the insurance guy is like "i didn't realize i was dealing with someone who had so much determination" LOL. i remember i talked abt in a rant once a longass time ago how that's the main thing cartman loves about kyle and i used the moment in imaginationland where cartman is like "KAHL YOU'VE NEVER WALKED AWAY FROM ANYTHING IN YOUR LIFE!1!1!" as evidence, but i've never rlly talked much about how much kyle appreciates that trait in cartman too. this special rlly showed how kyle LOVES cartman's tough boisterous obnoxious attitude and he appreciates his persistence in getting pretty much anything he wants. that's why kyle was DISAPPOINTED to see cartman so upset and easily giving up when he couldn't get the weight loss drug. he doesn't understand how cartman is tough and has willpower with literally everything EXCEPT his health (and other things that are good for him such as his school grades, i mean according to kyle bc i don't give a shit about grades either) LOL. that pep talk kyle gave cartman about being tough rlly helped cartman and got through to him bc fighting for the shit he wants is his whole thing and kyle was reminding him who the fuck he is. (yeah heidi could never lol). the fact that kyle even thought of that as something good to give cartman advice on, shows it's something he's observed and even ADMIRED about him over the years. so that's how we know in all of those moments when kyle would shit on cartman for being bad, breaking the rules, and always needing to get his way that he was just full of shit and lying bc he likes it LOL. like i remember back in "scott tenorman must die" how kyle kept telling cartman to let it go and drop it when he saw how cartman wasn't giving up and kept trying over and over to get his $10 back from scott, but the fact that kyle was even observing how much cartman wouldn't give up, shows how much this trait about cartman rlly stood out to him and INTRIGUED him. and the main reason why cartman's tenacity interested kyle so much and he was going out of his way to shit on him for it is bc kyle knows damn well he can be like that too, so either he was shitting on cartman for being overly tenacious bc he's insecure that he has that quality in himself, or he just secretly admires the trait in cartman and doesn't know how to process it (it's probably both) LOL. i'm sure kyle liked how there was finally someone else in south park, let alone in his friend group, that's as persistent as him and can match his energy bc he's tired of being the only one in town who's extremely extra lol. this DEF goes hand in hand with that rant i did a while back about how the reason why kyle hates seeing cartman sad and it hits him way harder than when he sees stan sad is bc he's used to seeing cartman's tough over-the-top extroverted personality and LOVES that about him even though he won't admit it, and this special just further proves my point. so thank you once again matt & trey for proving me right for the 47383573838 time.

[kenny-the-ken]

First Time for Everything

Soooo!!! I'm gonna do both of these requests, because I love the idea of both of them!! So the second part of this request will hopefully be out in the next few days!! I really hope you guys enjoy this, and keep the requests coming!! I love hearing from you all!! 💖 AGED UP CHARACTERS

Kyle had thought things through meticulously, in fact this was all he'd been worrying about for the past month. The guys were informed, and offered their support and help, albeit a bit useless, but Kyle appreciated their help.

His parents were out, and Ike was at a sleepover with his friends, and Kyle knew this was one of the very few times his house would be his and his alone, giving you both the much needed privacy you both were waiting for.

Kyle was seventeen, and his friends still mocked him for being a virgin, and yours did too, but you both wanted it to be special, to mean something, and that's exactly what you had with Kyle.

Kyle was perfect, you loved every inch of him, and he was infatuated with you. How he'd gotten so lucky, he'd never know, all he did know was that he felt it was time. He wanted to loose his virginity to you, and you wanted to loose yours to him.

Kyle wanted it to be a surprise, but you had a funny feeling that he was up to something, so you wore your cutest lingerie that you'd bought specially for this occasion.

He was pacing now, checking his watch every few minutes, awaiting your arrival. He had cooked you both a romantic dinner, he had candles lit, hell he even threw rose petals all over his bedroom just to make this the most special that it could possibly be.

He heard the doorbell ring, and he swore he jumped so high he nearly touched the ceiling, hopefully it wasn't too obvious how nervous he really was.

"H-Hi, Kyle." You spoke as he opened the door, and he held it open to let you in before closing it and locking it behind him.

"Hey, y/n. I have something pretty special planned for tonight, but it's entirely up to you if we do it or not, okay?" He asked, taking your hands in his as he placed a gentle kiss on your forehead.

"Okay." You agreed, a small blush on your cheeks.

"Did you cook for me?" You asked, your smile wide as your grip on his hand tightened slightly, and Kyle nodded in response, his own cheeks turning red.

"Yeah I did, I was tryna be romantic." He laughed, and you placed a kiss on his lips before he could say anything else.

"This is the most amazing thing anyone has ever done for me, Kyle." His heart felt like it would burst, he wanted nothing more than to make you feel like the most loved girl in the entire world, and this was just the beginning.

"I made spaghetti and meatballs." Kyle spoke as he led you to the dinner table, pulling out your chair for you to sit, as he made his way to the kitchen and began serving up his home cooked meal.

And god it was delicious! You had no idea that Kyle could cook so well, he actually surprised himself, he never expected it to taste as good as it did.

And as you both finished up, the time came for him to awkwardly ask you the one question that had been burning through his brain for over a month now.

"Y/n... I know we've only been together a few months but... I always wanted to lose my virginity to someone special, someone I loved. And I love you! There's no pressure, if you're not comfortable I completely understand, I don't want you to feel forc-"

Your lips cut him off as you kissed your boyfriend softly.

"Kyle, I love you to, and my answer is yes. I want to lose my virginity to you too." You spoke softly, and Kyle felt his cock hardening already, his cheeks flushing.

"Well in that case, shall we head up to my bedroom?" He asked, giggling at what he's just said as you took his hand and allowed him to lead you upstairs.

He had it all planned, his bedroom lights off, just the faint, warm glow of the variety of candles he had scattered around the room, and rose petals, strewn aimlessly around the place, including on his bed, and you gasped, your hand coming to reach over your mouth.

"Kyle you... you did all this for me?" You asked, your eyes welling joyful tears as you smiled up at your taller boyfriend, and he nodded, wrapping his arm around your waist and leading you inside, before closing and locking the door, so you wouldn't possibly be interrupted, just in case someone came back.

"Yeah I did, I told you, I wanted it to be special for both of us." He continued as he sat down on his bed, patting the space beside him for you to sit next to him, and you did as you were told, his hand coming to hold your thigh, his large hand squeezing it gently.

"I love you, Kyle." You spoke, gazing dreamily into your partner's eyes.

"I love you too, y/n." Kyle whispered, his hand placed under your chin as he pressed his lips to yours, and you kissed him back, one of your hands tangled in his curly hair, and the other wrapped around his shoulder.

He experimentally placed his hand on your hip, and then brought one to rest on your breast, your cheeks hotting up already, as he squeezed softly, the kiss deepening further.

Kyle licked your lower lip, your mouth opening in response, as his tongue explored your mouth, a soft sigh escaping your lips. His hand squeezed your breast again as he tugged on the hem of your shirt, asking permission to remove it, and you allowed him, his hands raising it over your arms and head and throwing it to the ground.

Your cheeks burned crimson, avoiding his gaze and instead looking at your exposed upper half.

"Jesus, y/n you're beautiful." Kyle spoke, before cupping your breast once more, a cheeky smile on his face.

"Can I take your bra off?" He asked bashfully and you simply nodded to him, as he fumbled to unclasp your bra, after a few attempts he had finally mastered it and threw it to the floor with your shirt.

His eyes widened, taking you all in as his mouth moved to take your breast in his mouth, sucking gently on your hardened nipple and you gasped, a small moan leaving your swollen lips.

Kyle then pulled away, pulling his own top off, and blushing a little himself, your hands moving their was down his whole torso, before tugging at his jeans.

"I think you should take these off too." You spoke, a smirk on your lips as he slowly took off your jeans, and you joined him in taking off your skirt.

"You're so hot." Kyle gushed, staring at you in complete awe.

"And so are you, Kyle. Now c'mere!" You said, a soft smile on your face.

And Kyle was more than happy to oblige, his hand pushing you backwards so you landed on the bed, a small gasp and a giggle escaping your mouth, and Kyle moved his body over yours, and you playfully reached your hand down, leaving gentle, teasing touches on his clothed cock, making your partner groan, his lips moving to meet yours in a fit of passion.

He was big, you couldn't deny that, your finger grazing over the clothed head of his cock, a moan escaping him as you did.

"Take these off, babe." You whispered, watching as Kyle slowly pulled his boxers down, and you followed him, pulling your own wet panties down, both of you blushing.

"You're huge, Kyle." You spoke, eyes wide and mouth agape, your hand reaching down once more to give his cock a few pumps back and forth and Kyle moaned against your touches, his own hand rubbing small circles against your clit, slowly moving down to circle your entrance, pushing a long digit into you, a small moan escaping you, and a louder one when he curled his finger against your g-spot.

"Fuck, I want inside you now." Kyle spoke, widening your legs, and rolling on a condom, as much as he wanted you, he was still incredibly nervous. He didn't want to hurt you.

"I-I'm gonna push in slowly, okay sweetie?" He spoke, his words slowly easing your own nerves.

"Okay." You softly muttered, and Kyle began his slow push into you, and my god he'd never felt anything as good as this before.

"Fuck, you're so tight." Kyle breathed out, a grunt escaping his parted lips, as he slowly pushed himself in till his cock was buried fully inside you, and he stilled.

"Are you okay, baby?" He asked, pressing kisses to your face as a means of distracting you from any discomfort you were in, and after a few moments you gave him the signal, letting him know that he could move.

And move he did, Kyle started to slowly move his hips, his cock slipping almost fully out of you before pushing back in, moans falling from your lips, and Kyle swore he was in heaven.

"You feel incredible, baby." He groaned, pants and moans leaving both of you, and Kyle knew he wouldn't last long, no one ever did on their first time, he never wanted this feeling to end.

"Kyle, your so big." You cried out, his hips speeding up slightly as he raised one of your legs over his shoulder, wanting to try a different angle.

Your back was arched, Kyle's cock fucking into you, and you both neared orgasm, your moans growing louder and longer by the second.

"I'm gonna cum, Kyle!" You moaned out, your hands fisted into the bedsheets below you, and Kyle moaned himself, looking deep in your eyes as he spoke.

"Come for me, y/n." He panted, his thrusts becoming sloppy, and your moaned loudly, calling out for your lover as your pussy tightened around him, causing Kyle's orgasm to wash over him too, his deep voice repeating your name over and over as he spilled his seed into the condom, both your highs bringing you both crashing back down to earth.

Your breathing was laboured, and Kyle was gasping for breath, placing a gentle kiss to your lips, embracing you while still inside you.

And as he rolled off your sweat slicked body, he pulled you to rest your head on your chest.

"Thank you, that was amazing! I love you." Kyle spoke, a smile on his face as he kissed the top of your head.

"There's no need to thank me, it was incredible Kyle, I love you too!" You replied, moving your head to capture his lips in a kiss.

Kyle was always the person you wanted to be with and you were his entire universe, you both knew you were made for each other, and there was no one else you both would've rather lost your virginities to than each other.

[callofdudes]

Been a while since I requested something, I shall grace this page with a request of being best friends with gaz headcanon please bestie 😊😊😊

Welcome back bestie 😊😊 I promise I'm working on all your other requests but mental health be doing backflips and I kinda feel like shit. I got some Gaz for you though.

Being best friends with Kyle "Gaz" Garrick.

Gaz is incredibly smart. If you look at his records his fighting reflex and knowledge is top chart stuff. But Gaz keeps it all very quiet. He doesn't boast about it like Soap would so when he does end up flipping heads on the enemy it's like "woah where did that guy come from-!"

Gaz uses this same skill to protect you. When you came to 141 Gaz was already settling. He had Ghost as a mentor and almost an older brother, and Soap as... Well he wasn't sure who he was supposed to be. But he had his team, and you seemed to easily click with Soap and Ghost.

Gaz wouldn't force you to be friends with him. Of course he introduced himself and you both talked occasionally but he didn't know if it was a friendship per say. And that was ok. He'd still protect you with his life any day of the week.

However you really did have intense feelings of friendship for Gaz. But you thought because of his quiet nature that he was closed off like Simon. Which in fact wasn't the case when you got him talking. He was just shyer than the others.

The first time you and Gaz really, properly hung out was on a quiet night at base, Gaz had finished his tasks and had nothing really to do. He enjoyed his time playing Dungeons and Dragons, (headcannon from @itsscromp) unfortunately he couldn't ever get the others to play. Ghost was too busy, Price wasn't fully interested, and Johnny just cared to cause chaos.

And then he noticed you were also done your work. "Well Kyle, there's no harm." And he went to ask you. And it went well. Turns out you wanted to play DND, and after playing for almost four hours together it solidified that.

And Gaz was really glad to have you as one of his few friends.

And now that you were friends you really did learn a lot more about him. Gaz would go down in a fire for you, no questions asked. Seems stupid but he specializes in VIP protection. You think he wouldn't protect you?? Think again. You're VIP to him. You all are.

Loves you a lot but is too shy to say it and think you'll get the wrong idea.

And look, you don't have skin that clear on the battlefield without having some kind of routine. This man looks after his skin like the temple his body is. (when he's not eating junk food.)

Yeah, your skin isn't cutting it for him. Sorry babes, get in the bathtub we are rinsing your hair and slapping some hydration on that forehead because Gaz knows you are gone need it to be crawling around the musty dusty desert with him.

Now, Knight is openly queer, so you know Gaz is a little spice of life as well. He keeps it under wraps and isn't as open about it in his career because he doesn't think you guys need to know and or he's met people in past expanses that didn't take so kindly to him being open about it.

He's the gay best friend, it's not overbearing. You know how most gay men are just different in a fun way. That's Gaz but he has it toned down so at first you couldn't tell and then it just clicked and you were like "woah". But you can kinda tell there just, there a something there you thinks.

You gotta keep him out of trouble to. You have to be his discernment. He's got relationship smarts but if he's even remotely cute and no good, time for bestie to step in. Sorry Gaz, not today. Your bestie is not letting you get yourself into that mess.

His gun does most of the talking and he carries a side arm so if anyone gives you smoke their gonna get got.

He's smart but also the silent, immediately jumps to using his gun conclusion guy. So if someone bullies you in the grocery store he pulls out his gun and you've gotta be like "Woah woah, not necessary mate, nooot necessary 😅😅"

Hates trash reality TV but watches it anyway. Drags you into the torture as well.

He spills the tea. He spills it always. He sometimes just walks around quietly not taking up too much air and hearing conversations and by the end of it he's got so much to tell you.

Not quite sure what I think Gaz's childhood looked like but I assume he didn't have too many friends. I could see him as the shy kid who focused more on academics and played in the trees of his backyard alone over having a boat load of friends.

So when you do things like buy him stuff or give him cuddles and affection he has this epiphany. Like this is what I've been missing!

Your comfort and affection is something he truly loves so much, but the house and traditions he grew up with weren't the most overly affectionate, and in his career there wasn't much cuddling with the homies in his unit either.

Yeah you give him cuddles he's like a leach, he'll leave when he wants to leave and only when. And he likes to sometimes cling on by surprise. When he becomes so comfortable around you he'll often waltz into your office and wrap his arms around your neck from behind, watching what you're doing.

"You done yet??"

"I'll tell you when I'm done ok?"

"Ok...... Y/n??"

"Not all of us are as fast as you at paperwork y'know"

"Sorry."

You take Gaz and Soap on adventures together and you still can't wrap your head around hos they're friends. Completely chaotic, loud and chipper faced with slightly annoyed at the loudness, just as chaotic on the inside and together you get one big Gaz Soap salad. Sticking them in a car for five hours together was a mistake for your sake.

Gaz doesn't open up about his feelings a lot, but look at you 😄 look at you helping him to open up and ask for help. To ask for the care that he needs when things get tough for him.

He was alone before that terrorist attack where he met Price and that was s very scary time for him. Looking back on it from his place in 141 Gaz was much more scared on the field then than he is now. Probably because he's got a team he knows he'll always be able to trust and confide in.

That's the best part of having you as a friend. He can confide in you with anything. And knowing him, you can also confide in him. Whatever secrets you tell him are lock and key baby. He won't tell a single soul.

Gaz tried to do all the things you've done for him, for you. When you need someone to give you a hug or some cuddles Gaz will do his best to comfort you and show you that same infectious love and care.

Whenever you have a nightmare he's right there for you. Wrapping his arms around you to keep you steady, holding you up when you can't.

He'll always try.

Celebrates your accomplishments as well. When you get promoted or a medal, hell when you do everything he's on your sideline cheering. And it's like his shyness is gone when he sees his friends receiving praise for something. He'll cheer louder than everyone in the room for you all.

But the one thing your friendship isn't above is England. If you diss on England, or their football, prepare to get got. Tickle attacks or hitting you with a pillow as punishment.

At the end of the day three of your friends are British and one of them is Scottish which starts petty squabbles between Gaz and Soap sometimes. It's all playful but sometimes Soap wants to start some shit and you end up having to try and separate them before they wrestle each other to death.

And there is probably so much more I'm missing, but remember. Whenever you need someone to watch your six, Gaz is already there. Whenever you need someone you can spend some quiet time with when things get overwhelming, you know where to find Gaz. And when life gives you bullshit. Gaz has a Glock.

[progmanx]

Soo… thoughts on the flip side?

I enjoyed it when I played it, but it left zero lasting impression on me, unlike the first two games. It holds no special place in my heart, and I honestly question why it exists. I think there's a lot you COULD say about sex workers and how that internal perception works, how Jecka's total lack of control in her life paralyzes her, but...I don't think this has really much to say at all. The FYE route reads and feels like a bad South Park episode, which is completely baffling.

And for the love of God if you want to if you NEED to for some reason make a joke about how this kid from the suburbs doesn't know geography SAY PAKISTAN FIRST as the one she is mixing up that was so tone deaf and pointless as a writing decision.

As much as SBN3 talks about how humor and jokes work and that's what he does? Where are the jokes. The same bit with Jecka's dad screaming at her is kind of funny the first time you play it but it's not gonna work twice. There's no longevity there's no LIFE to this, unlike the first two.

Basically none of the humor is actually going to be funny a second time unlike ALL of the Re-Up and a lot of the original game. For something that marketed itself as "the other games matter here to remember" they really didn't except the Nicole suicide route which was done extremely well but...we already did this messaging. That's why it was good we did ALL of this before. There was nothing actually new here to explore or say.

Just a remix in a far more muddied and far less entertaining way. Three routes are about jobs in the Recession which could be really interesting to explore but. They didn't.

I don't even have a problem with the feet thing, tbh, but it's the SAME joke over and over and over and it stops working faster than the game thinks it does imo.

Nicole having toe sex with Jecka's dad feels...baffling and bizarre. Especially after how much time was spent in the sex worker route FOR NICOLE last time. She can't fuck a stranger sober but she can do this? To this old creepy dude she is disgusted by at the start? I know she's vindictive but jfc???

We did this already.

Ms. Ames as the counselor (no she's not she's Remedial English), Kyle as...cited as the guy who killed his mom for Jecka in the opening but then he's just there? Again, talking about how the other games matter but they don't?? There's like. No characterization here, but most of all, above everything else, why I only enjoyed it once and why I don't love it?

There is not one trace of sincerity outside of the Nicole Suicide route. BECAUSE THAT'S FROM THE FIRST GAME. It all feels just so...hollow and forced and frustrated and almost spiteful. Like why the fuck is it ARI who dies and not JECKA KILLING HER DAD?! There's no consistency here, basically everyone is flanderized I just.

what the fuck?

I'm not even that disappointed, since I went in expecting nothing, but to go that hard on the first two and then you show up with whatever the hell this is? Anachronism after anachronism---if you want to talk about instituional cp you need to actually oh gee I dunno give that some fucking room. You SHOULD talk about it if you feel you can in a way that's HELPFUL but shouting it with nothing else to say doesn't do shit and really doesn't fit with...the other games actually saying stuff and meaning it.

I have defended the Mr. White stuff because of how easy the slippery slope of radicalization is but this is just fucking stupid. There's nothing to this. It's a bunch of references in the FYE route and if you can't get Antfish back just do not put the counselor in the voice doesn't work with an impression. There's like. no actual banter in this game, either. There's no solid back and forth.

I doubt I'll stick around for the anime if this is where things are at, like okay man. You had two great things I'll always love them. This gave me a fun evening and I am already struggling to remember anything that happened or anything that was said. The other two are seared into my brain forevermore.

also that last text message was just lazy troll dick move; everyone will think he is being entirely serious.

God just

HOW DO YOU GO FROM HAVING A COMEDY DUO THAT IS UP THERE WITH ABBOT AND COSTELLO TO DOING ABSOLUTELY NOTHING?!

[jewbeloved]

When you feel left out (Stan x Kyle x Reader)💙💚💖

This idea came into my head and I wanted to write about it!

Warnings: angst with a fluff happy ending

Gender: Neutral

💙 Stan and Kyle 💚

You weren't really sure if you were ready to have 2 boyfriends they were dating before you came into the relationship.

I mean you liked both Stan and Kyle at the same time so a poly relationship happened between you guys, so now you're dating 2 boyfriends.

But lately you have been getting weird feelings that Stan and Kyle are ignoring you. Maybe like you being left out for some reason, you wondered if they were upset or mad at you for something. But when you asked them they didn't say anything to you, they just looked at each other before facing away from you.

You decided to ask your friends and their friends if you did something wrong to make them ignore you, but all of them didn't know.

You knew that Stan and Kyle were dating before you came into their relationship. But now you're starting to feel as if you're getting in the way with how they don't make eye-contact with you and ignore you like you're not even there.

You had confronted them when you found them sitting on a bench in Stark's pond holding hands.

"Stan and Kyle...?", You thought that they would just ignore you again but they actually faced towards you this time.

They gave you concerned looks when they saw your facial expression.

"Am I...getting in the way of your relationship?", Their concerned looks changed into a shocked one.

"Huh? What are you talking about (Name)?"

"Well...you guys have been quite ignoring me since last week and I saw you guys were always hanging out with each other...you both always seemed so happy...", You tried your hardest to not cry.

"The truth is...I feel left out....I'm not saying that I always want to be the center of attention...but it felt like I was always the third wheel who wasn't even there to begin with...", You couldn't hold in your tears any longer as you burst into tears streaming down your cheeks.

Stan and Kyle both looked at each other with guilt before they turned towards you again and wrapped their arms around you to form a big hug.

"Oh (Name)....you're not getting in the way of our relationship... we're sorry we made you feel like that...".

"But why did you guys ignore me...? I don't understand...".

"Well...me and Stan were still not sure about being in a poly relationship....but we should've told you how we felt instead of just hiding it from you, we're so sorry...", Stan and Kyle hugged you closer to them.

"You both did seem really happy when I wasn't there to join you guys...".

"We are happy together..but we also still want you.....you're our s/o...do you still want to be in a poly relationship with us? If that is still okay with you".

You nodded and that made them both smile at you.

They both gave you a kiss on both sides of your cheek as they continue to hug you into their embrace while giving you head pats and back rubs.

"Me and Stan were planning to go play some video games at Stan's house, would you like to join us (Name)?", Your eyes lit up in excitement.

"I would love to!", All 3 of you smiled as you all held hands while making your way to Stan's house.

"After we finish playing games together...do you guys maybe want to cuddle and watch a movie?"

They smiled at you.

"Me and Stan have cuddled before, but with you this time it will feel special! and also another way to make up to you for ignoring you last week".

They both gave you some more kisses on your forehead and cheek, and eventually your lips too.

You have never felt so happy in your life...💚💙💖

I love poly relationships...sometimes I do wonder what it is like to have 2 partners or maybe even more...