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girlwtdragontattoo · 1 month ago

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In your debt - Final Part

Young Halsin x Reader

Hey guys! This is the final part of my Young Halsin saga lol. I may continue doing some other fics with this version of him, but I am quite frankly out of ideas for now.

I am not all too proud of this part. There are certain scenes that just don't hit as hard as I'd like, but I've been editing and tweaking for days now. I'm finally just accepting it is what it is and basta!

Original idea for young Halsin belongs to @ozumii-fucking-wizard! Please go to their blog and follow!

Warning: 18+, violence, general nsfw, explicit sex, oral and penetrative, rough

For previous parts: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

If you want a spicy song for "the moment", give this a listen. It's what I listened to while writing it lol

Word Count: 8k sorry lol

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Halsin listened to your plan and decided it was too risky. He rejected it in an exceedingly kind way, as his smile hypnotized you to refrain from arguing. You conceded, for now, but asked that he share his plans with you, once there were any. He agreed, reluctantly.

In the next few days, you noticed him speaking to two other druids in hushed voices. You surmised they were Frelma and Danan, the two he mentioned that would help him topple the looming drow and goblin threat.

They would hurriedly finish their meals and then gather at the edge of the forest. It was fairly obvious that they were doing something they shouldn’t, but you couldn’t tell if the Archdruid, or Anwen, suspected anything. If they did, they didn’t show their suspicions around you. Halsin joined Anwen in prayer every evening. You were allowed to observe. One time, you noticed Anwen cross her arms and eye her adoptive son from head to toe, while Halsin nervously sputtered something about “studying”. If you could tell he was lying, you were certain she could. But she didn’t press him, to your surprise.

Your healing was complete. You felt a surge of energy and strength within yourself after the final session with Halsin, but there was also a twinge of sadness. You enjoyed these tender bouts with him. The feeling of his warm hands upon you made you yearn for more. He would often lower his head and listen to your abdomen and a strobing image of him between your legs made you twitch and gulp down your lust, embarrassed that he may feel your body temperature rise dramatically.

You weren't certain the feeling was mutual. You thought you saw him blush a few times and try to hide it or noticed a devoted spark within his viridescent eyes as you complimented his duck figurines. The way he touched you, it felt different than how Anwen healed you. As if he was exploring.

You would talk for hours now. You taught him a few chords, he showed you what amazing things you could find in the forest – creatures, plants, food. He even taught you how to carve wood. He would sit behind you to guide your hands while you carefully sliced through the bark. His touch was so gentle. Some nights you two would sing together, that addictive laugh of his when he messed up a note or lyric; It almost made you swoon.

He loved learning about your travels, the city and misadventures you’d had. He confessed he was slightly bored of the forest and wanted to go on long explorations. He even joked about joining you – at least you thought it was a joke. The way he looked at you when he said “Good night”; Most evenings, it felt he had a difficult time leaving your side.

You couldn’t be sure: maybe he was just like this with everyone.

Halsin told you his current plan while you helped him forage one afternoon. They would track the goblins’ markings through the forest to the stronghold and sneak inside. He showed you the footprints peppering the muddy ground near the village entrance. Once there, they would eradicate the leaders, leaving the goblins without guidance and unable to organize. It sounded so simple, but once you pressed how three druids would manage to fight off a hoard of goblins and tactical drow leaders, he placated you that they were well trained. At the question “What if the goblins overwhelm you?” you noticed the druid’s eyes jitter across the floor. It looked like he hadn’t thought of that, but quickly shook off his reaction.

It was your last day together. Halsin decided he would leave with his group the following morning. Your healing had finished, after all. His task was done. You had no reason to stay in the druids’ village any longer. They all assumed you wanted to get back home – which was the furthest thing from your mind.

You had tucked the children into bed with a lullaby once again and found the druid waiting for you outside the barn. Leaning against a nearby tree, you sensed heightened hesitation on his end, unusual for him. You tilted your head as you watched him scan your features. Letting his arms drop, he approached you slowly. Your heart thudded against your chest.

“Y/N,…”, he looked deeply into your eyes as he grasped your hands within his. “It’s been a pleasure getting to know you. I wish we’d met under different circumstances. Please know you are always welcome in the High Forest! Thaniel adores you, the children adore you, my mother thinks you’re a riot. And I… well…” You saw him swallow harshly and your insides started combusting.

WHAT? SAY IT!

The young druid squeezed your hands slightly, his jaw clenched.

“I..”

The courage he was building up collapsed suddenly. He dropped his head and let out a sigh.

“Thank you for everything. I hope Silvanus permits our paths cross again. If I survive tomorrow.”

His laugh felt forced.

Your face muscles unclenched and your brows tilted upwards. That was it? You couldn’t suppress the pulsating disappointment. It showed in your eyes. What did he stop himself from saying?

Halsin looked disappointed as well. He stared off to the side and let go of your hands, taking his time.

You stood in silence for a while. The unspoken truth hammering in your chest. His reluctance threw you off. Did he not feel the way you did, after all? Did he not want you?

Your own bravery shrunk within itself. The words you had prepared in your head for days were fogging fast.

“Halsin,” you started with the first coherent thought, “Please let me come with you. The current plan is suicide.” This wasn’t all you wanted to say. But your tongue ignored you.

His eyes drifted over your face. He saw your own hesitation and blinked slowly.

“No. I can’t see you hurt again. And please, don’t worry. If things get too hard, we’ll get out of there.”

That last line was a lie. You could tell.

The druid stepped forward and pulled you into a tight embrace. Your breath shook as your face pressed against his strong chest. The scent of his skin drifted up your nose. You felt his chin rest on your head softly, as you two swayed in each other’s arms. The hug lasted a while, neither of you wanting to end it.

There was a brief tremor and he released from you.

“Oakfather preserve you”, he mumbled, looking down at you one last time before turning to leave.

You wanted to grab his arm and pull him back to you. But the fear of a second rejection was too deafening.

Why wouldn’t your mouth open? You wanted to scream that your wish was to stay with him. Your mind threw up every single want and need you imagined with him. But nothing dared leave your lips.

Halsin entered the barn and closed the sliding door without looking at you.

The tears fell from your eyes without warning. There was so much you wanted to say, but you couldn’t muster up any remaining strength or courage to follow him.

Maybe this was for the best. You had a life back in Baldur’s Gate. And he had his here.

Perhaps this was the way it had to be. As shitty as it was.

You walked up the path slowly, the druids’ village behind you, trekking the road back to the city in the morning light. Your entire body resisted the travel home. You didn’t want to go back. Your stomach was in knots.

You loved the High Forest. The children. The druids.

You had feelings for Halsin. Whether you were brave enough to speak them into existance or not, they existed. Not only did you long for him for his eternal beauty, but the endless gentle nature that embraced you every time he gazed into your eyes. You couldn’t be certain what he chose not to divulge to you yesterday, but you regretted not telling him how you felt.

His plan was dumb. He was surely walking into a massive trap in the stronghold. Your plan was also dumb, but it guaranteed that the druids would have a higher chance of survival. It didn’t guarantee your survival, but you had waved Halsin’s critique of that small detail away the same way he brushed yours off.

The idea of never seeing him again bit your heart. You couldn’t bear the thought of him getting hurt. And he would definitely be wounded or worse if he went through with his current plan.

A snaking, disturbing thought wrapped itself around your head. What if he actually got killed?

You stopped in your tracks and gazed at the path that led back home. You couldn’t let that happen. He was a big brother to those sweet children. The forest spirit was his friend. His mother would be in shambles. You would be inconsolable.

This plan is dumb.

You felt your body turn on its heels and face the direction of the village once more. Not knowing what happened to him would be the worst kind of torture. The endless wondering if he was alright. The sleepless nights praying to all the Gods that he returned to the druids’ village safely.

It won’t work.

The tempo of your stride increased gradually, leaving gusts of dirt behind you, as you ran back. Halsin had showed you which footprints they were following. You knew in which direction they were heading.

I’m gonna die again.

You muttered to yourself as you hiked up a steep hill through the trees, the goblins’ tracks still visible in the dirt road. You spotted fresh larger prints and recognized Halsin’s boots.

You ran, holding the beautiful lute he made for you in your hand.

You found them deeper in the forest, stalking low through the high bushes, their pace steady. Halsin’s broad shoulders tensed as he led the way through the brush, flanked by his two companions—each of them with their eyes sharp, alert to the clashing and clanking of metal below in the clearing. The afternoon sun filtered through the trees, casting long shadows that danced along the path. You could hear their hushed conversation as you approached, their words blending with the rustling of leaves.

"Halsin!" You called out, breathless, your heart pounding in your chest from the frantic, long sprint. Your face was the shade of a fire amber.

Halsin spun around, eyes wide with surprise as he saw you coming up the trail. His face softened, but there was an unmistakable flicker of frustration in his gaze: “What are you doing here? No! Get back to the city!”

You peered down at what they had discovered. A large camp stretched across a field of dead trees with a decaying ruin casting huge shadows on the hastily constructed ramparts. It emanated death, making the skin on the back of your neck prickle with fear. There was a moat around the camp with a rickety and long bridge stretching across the depth.

Gulping audibly, you returned your gaze to the group of confused druids who were waiting for an explanation. Halsin looked incredulous.

You planted yourself firmly in front of him: “I’m here to help. Your plan—it won’t work man, I just know it won’t.”

His jaw tightened, a low growl of annoyance escaping his throat: “And your plan? The one where you sacrifice yourself as bait for a horde of viscious goblins? That will work? It’s reckless, stupid, dangerou—”

“It’s the only way!”, you interrupted, meeting his intense, worried glare with unwavering determination, although your knees were giving in. Why was even his angered face hot?

“If I can lead the goblins away, it will give you and the others a real chance to take out the drow without being overwhelmed. Your plan leaves too much to chance. We can’t afford that, not with the children’s lives at stake.”

Halsin’s hands balled into fists at his sides, his voice strained: “No. I can’t let you. It’s too risky and if something happens to you again—” His words trailed off, the frustration giving way to something deeper, more vulnerable.

His two friends, who had been silent until now, exchanged glances. Frelma, a younger, halfling druid with sharp eyes and a playful expression, stepped forward: “Halsin,… I’m sorry mate, but maybe they’re right. Our current plan is… well not really a plan, is it? We’re kind of just jumping in and hoping for the best. This way…to draw the goblins out… it could give us a real advantage.”

Danan, a quiet but sturdy looking human, nodded in agreement: “It’s better than what you have been conjuring up as we go.” He turned his gaze to you, scanning you up and down. Your breath was already steady, despite having ran the entire way.

“You have good stamina. Definitely fast to catch up with us so quickly. What’s your plan for distracting them?”

You hastily flung your bag on the ground and rummaged in it. Out of the chaotic depths of your belongings, you pulled a couple glass bottles out. Holding them up, you explained: “I know, if you mix salt, scales and fungi together, it can make a decent explosive. Not too devastating but enough to cause confusion. I have salt in my pack. You guys should know how to find the rest, no?”

Frelma paused briefly then nodded, mumbling that she noticed drake markings at a nearby cave. Danan already started peering into the forest, assessing where he could ascertain the right mushrooms.

Halsin’s eyes darted between his companions and you, his internal struggle palpable. His shoulders sagged, the weight of the situation bearing down on him: “This is lunacy. You don’t understand what you’re up against here,” he said softly, almost pleading. “I don’t want to see you hurt again. Not for this.”

You got up from the ground, still holding the bottles in your hands. You took a step closer, your voice gentle but firm: “I know I don’t look it, but I’ve bolted my way out of horrible situations before. I can outrun them. You just take care of the leaders. This way, you guys can use the element of surprise to your benefit. If you go through with this without a real plan, it could be you who gets hurt, or worse. I can’t let that happen. Please… let me do this.”

The worry he had for you made your heart scream.

His gaze held yours for a long moment, his eyes searching your face for any sign of hesitation. You could feel the raw emotion behind his steely exterior—because it echoed within your own form.

Frelma pressed the young druid further: “Halsin. We have to succeed today. If we lose, I do not want to know what will happen to the village.” Danan nodded in agreement. All three were staring up at the honey-haired elf, who kept his gaze firmly on you.

Finally, with a deep, resigned sigh, he spoke, his voice thick with emotion: “I don’t like this, not one bit… but… I guess you’re right. We cannot afford to lose.”

You exhaled, relief flooding through you as his words sank in: “I’ll be careful. I promise.”

Halsin’s worry still clouded his features. He reached out, resting a hand on your cheek, his touch warm and grounding. Your red face turned purple.

“Run like hell,” he adjured, his voice deep and filled with a quiet intensity. “The forest needs you. The children need you… and so do I.”

You gave a small, determined nod, gripping the bottles in your hand. You leaned into his touch briefly, before he lowered his hand to turn to the stronghold.

You turned as well, ready to set your plan in motion while the other two went on to gather the necessary ingredients. Halsin stayed back to look for any shallow entryway. You cast one last look at him, before you ran after Danan and Frelma.

Night had fallen by the time you reached the outskirts of the goblin camp. Shadows stretched long across the ground, and the loud, raucous voices of goblins and drow filled the air as they feasted and drank within the ruin’s crumbling walls. The scent of roasted, sour meat wafted on the night breeze, mixing with the pungent stench of unwashed bodies and smoke. It made your stomach churn, both from nerves and disgust.

High above in the ramparts of the ruin, you squatted down, cloaked in the darkness. You moved carefully, staying low as you crept across the stone. The weight of the glass bottles in your hand was a constant reminder of what was to come. You felt your heart pound against your chest with a mix of adrenaline and fear.

What the Hells am I doing?

Below, in the ruin's hall, the three drow leaders sat at the head of the long table, their faces twisted in haughty disdain as they presided over the goblins, who sheepishly ate food scraps the drow had thrown on their tables. Two female warriors, clad in dark armor and bristling with blades, flanked a male drow in elegant robes. His sneering gaze drifted across the room like a spider surveying its web, full of contempt for his own underlings and their disappointing return. Dead goblin corpses littered the front. Their throats slit or heads caved in. You surmised the drow had made an example out of some of the goblins for their failure to capture the children. You recognized Izick, his body sprawled, bloody and discarded off to the side. So, he had survived the fall with you. But he hadn’t avoided death.

The goblins were too distracted to notice the approaching danger, but the drow remained sharp—dangerous even in their leisure.

Halsin, Frelma, and Danan moved silently, shadows within shadows, creeping through the underbrush and stone rubble surrounding the stronghold. Their presence was almost imperceptible, the tension building as they stalked closer to their target. You saw Halsin in a deep crouch near the rear of the ruin, his eyes gleaming golden in the moonlight, the instinctual urge to charge into the fray held back by sheer force of will. He waited, watching for your signal, his backside straining for a pounce.

It was your turn.

This is suicide, your brain screamed at you, but you ignored it.

The goblins below were too engrossed in eating scraps to notice you at the ramparts. Some were fighting amongst themselves for pieces of food, others drunkenly hollering at each other. It was the perfect storm of chaos, ripe for your plan to begin.

You gripped the grenade bottle tightly, sweat slick on your palm despite the cool night air. Every second felt like a lifetime ticking away. You counted the goblins below—too many to face in open battle, but just enough to chase after one tantalizing and idiotic distraction.

You inhaled deeply, steadying yourself.

I’m definitely going to die.

You shook your head. Now wasn’t the time for reason. This had to work. It just had to.

It felt like days passed as you waited for your arm to obey.

Then, with a flick of your wrist, you hurled the bottle with all your strength into the heart of the camp.

Time seemed to slow as the glass bottle arched through the air, glinting in the dim light of the torches. It smashed against a stone near the goblins' fire pit, shattering into a brilliant flash of sparks and smoke. The chemical mixture inside ignited with a crackling roar, and suddenly, flames and choking fumes exploded upward. Goblins screeched in confusion, clutching at their eyes, as a burst of light and sound sent them into a frenzied panic.

The table overturned in the chaos, food and drink spilling everywhere. The male drow snapped to attention, his sharp eyes narrowing with suspicion. "What is the meaning of this?" he barked at the goblins, his voice dripping with venom.

But the goblins were beyond control now. The noise and flames had triggered their primal instincts—fight or flight. And when they caught sight of you, darting across the top of the ramparts, they made their choice.

“There!” one of the goblins howled, pointing at your fleeting form. “Get that rat!”

Like a wave crashing over rocks, the goblin horde surged toward you, claws and weapons raised. You didn’t wait to see the full effect; you bolted, heart pounding, lungs burning as your legs carried you across the stone ruins. The cacophony of angry goblins filled the air behind you, their shrieks and footfalls growing louder as they swarmed after you like a pack of feral beasts.

You leaped from the ramparts and rolled as you hit the ground, not daring to look back as you sprinted through the muddy camp, your feet pounding against the squelching earth. They were following you, as planned, but there were so many. The old bridge loomed ahead, dark and rickety as the wind swayed the frayed wood from side to side. The goblins’ cries echoed through the night as you darted towards the peninsula.

Back at the ruin, Halsin and his companions took advantage of the chaos. With the goblins now chasing you, the main hall was left vulnerable, the drow leaders standing alone with only a few goblin stragglers, stunned and confused by the sudden turn of events.

Frelma grinned, her eyes gleaming with anticipation as she crouched beside Halsin. “Well, that worked better than expected,” she whispered.

Danan grunted in agreement, his eyes locked on the drow. “It’s time.”

Halsin's hands flexed at his sides, his jaw tight as he watched the drow leaders—three of Lolth's chosen, arrogant and cruel, their dark eyes scanning the room for signs of the ambush they couldn’t see coming. He could feel the heat rising in his chest, the primal fury begging to be unleashed. A flash of you, hurt and bleeding, flitted in his mind. But he shook his head. He needed to concentrate and fulfill the mission.

“Hold,” he muttered, forcing himself to wait a moment longer. He needed to time the attack perfectly. The last few goblins hastily followed the group after the male drow growled at them for their uselessness. You had done your part - he couldn’t let the drow sense what was coming. His fingers tingled with the surge of druidic power inside him, the need to transform almost overwhelming.

Finally, when the drow leaders’ attention drifted back to their overturned table for a brief second, Halsin gave a sharp nod to his companions.

With a single, fluid motion, Halsin burst from the shadows, his body aglow with golden light as his form shifted, muscles rippling as he transformed mid-leap. His bear form crashed into the male drow, sending him sprawling as Frelma and Danan surged forward, weapons flashing in the dim light. The two female drow drew their blades, their faces twisted into sneers as they prepared to fight back.

Frelma’s blade flashed in the moonlight as she darted around one of the warriors, each strike met with a sharp parry and a flurry of counterattacks. Danan fought the other, their weapons clashing with a thunderous ring, the drow’s face twisted in a sneer of amusement. She was toying with him, each movement graceful and calculated, a predator circling its prey.

Halsin, now in his bear form, roared as he slammed into the leader, sending him crashing against a crumbled wall. The drow hit the ground with a sickening thud, and for a moment, his body lay still. Halsin didn’t have time to confirm the kill—Frelma’s pained grunt drew his attention.

The female drow were vicious. Agile and brutal, their movements were precise and deadly. Frelma barely avoided a swipe to her throat, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she dodged and weaved. She was tiring. Danan was faring no better, his opponent driving him back step by step, her twin blades a blur of death in the dim light.

With a growl, Halsin charged, shifting back into his elven form. He unsheathed his staff, the wood crackling with druidic energy, and swung it down with the full force of his fury. It caught one of the drow off guard, knocking her off balance and giving Frelma the opening she needed. Frelma lunged forward, her blade finding purchase in the drow’s side, and the dark elf let out a hiss of pain, her sneer faltering.

Danan managed to regain his footing, pressing his attack as the second female drow turned her attention to Halsin. Her cold, red eyes gleamed with hatred, and she launched herself at him with lightning speed, her blades aimed straight for his chest.

But Halsin was ready.

He sidestepped her, his staff spinning in a fluid arc, knocking one of her blades from her hand. She snarled, but before she could recover, he brought the end of his staff crashing down on her wrist with a sharp crack, disarming her completely. Frelma and Danan closed in, ready to finish the fight.

Halsin’s gaze flicked toward the male drow, still crumpled against the wall. He didn’t move, his body seemingly lifeless.

You tore across the rickety old bridge that connected the ruin to the High Forest beyond. The ancient wood yawned angrily beneath your feet, swaying alarmingly with each step, but you couldn't slow down. The horde of goblins was right behind you, their screeches growing louder as they stormed across the bridge in pursuit. The clanging of their blades on their armor punched into your ears, their claws scraping against the tired wood.

Your heart pounded in your chest, every instinct screaming at you to keep running. Just a little farther.

Once you reached the other side of the bridge, you skidded to a stop, panting heavily as you pulled the second grenade bottle from your belt. With a quick glance over your shoulder, you saw the goblins—dozens of them—crowding onto the bridge. It groaned under their weight, the ancient wood splintering at the edges.

This was it.

You hurled the bottle at the center of the bridge, your aim true. The glass shattered against the wood, and for a heartbeat, nothing happened.

Then, with a deafening explosion, the bridge erupted in a shower of fire and splinters. The force of the blast eviscerated the structure, sending chunks of wood and metal flying into the air. The goblins let out terrified shrieks as the ground disappeared beneath them. You watched as they tumbled into the depths below, their bodies swallowed by the darkness of the ravine.

The bridge was gone. The goblins were no more.

You collapsed to your knees, gasping for breath, a mix of relief and exhaustion washing over you. The plan had worked. The horde was dealt with. You had made it out alive. You stared at the tower, anxiety gripping your throat. Was Halsin ok?

Back in the ruin, Halsin felt the rumble of the second explosion vibrate in the distance.

As the other female drow fell to the ground, defeated, Halsin’s attention snapped back to where the male drow had lain motionless. His heart fell to his stomach. The body was gone.

Halsin’s eyes widened in horror: "No..."

A surge of cold dread shot through him as he turned toward the entrance of the ruin. His mind raced, piecing it together—Misty Step. The male drow hadn’t been incapacitated. He had been waiting, biding his time, and now…

Was he going after you?

Halsin’s stomach twisted into knots, a cold sweat breaking out across his brow.

“I need to go!”, he barked at Frelma and Danan, urgency flooding his voice, “He’s going after Y/N!”

Without waiting for a reply, Halsin sprinted toward the exit, his legs pumping furiously as he raced through the ruin and out into the night.

He dashed through the mud with fire burning in his legs, stomach and throat, inconsolable at the sheer possibility that you could be harmed. Reaching the edge of the camp, embers of the explosion floated through the darkness and the charred wood smell invaded his nostrils.

Seeing the young druid on the other side, you cheered loudly, jumping up and down with your fist pumping into the air.

Halsin stared across the deep crevice before him at your gleeful hopping form, excessive concern stretched across his face. He couldn’t jump the distance in his human form.

Where was the drow?

You couldn’t see that far, so you didn’t notice how worrisome his expression was. You were so happy to see him alive and unharmed. Your plan had worked. The ecstasy of success waved through you and left you distracted. Your loud yelps of joy deafened the surroundings.

A whooshing sound reverberated behind you. Mist flowed between your legs as you landed from another jump. A harsh tug of your hair yanked you against your will back into the air. You kicked with your feet, but the drow held his arm outstretched, clasping a clump of your tresses. The pain made your spine contort.

“Y/N!!!”, Halsin shouted across the moat, his panicked voice repeated through the stone. The young druid’s body glowed golden, as he tried to transform.

“Don’t move…”, the drow’s sharp voice hissed to the druid, as he held a dagger to your side. “Or I’ll gut them.”

The pointy, harsh edge of the blade stuck in your belly. It hovered there dangerously close to your recovered area. You tried not to squirm too much in fear of being punctured, but the pain from your cranium made you move involuntarily.

Halsin roared with fury, the golden light flashing low: “Let them go!”

The drow sneered, his lips curling into a cruel smirk. He dragged you closer, the blade still teasingly pressed against your abdomen: “You druids... you're all the same,” he growled, voice dripping with contempt. “Always talking about balance, harmony, and the natural order, like it makes you righteous. But what do you really know of power? You hide in your groves and forests, pretending to be one with nature, while the world burns and bends to those with ambition.”

He jerked your head back further, his fingers tangling painfully in your hair, yanking your neck at an awkward angle. “Slaves, like these filthy children you’re so desperate to protect, are a necessity for those of us who understand true strength. They’re tools—nothing more. Yet you lot," he glanced at Halsin with disdain, "would sacrifice your lives for them. Pathetic."

His eyes gleamed with malice, the grip on the blade loosening just slightly as he gestured toward Halsin. “Because of your meddling, I’ll have to replace what’s been taken from me. Those ugly children? They’d have made fine thralls, but I suppose I’ll just have to make do with this one instead. And I’ll return with more, fearsome soldiers.”

The blade wavered precariously as he waved it in the air, illustrating his sick vision. His attention drifted more and more toward his rant, the gloating feeding his arrogance. “My people—we understand how the world truly works. We take what we deserve, we own, we dominate. That’s the natural order.” He flicked the blade dangerously close to your ribs again, but it was clear—he was more interested in hearing the sound of his own voice than paying attention to his hostage.

Through the haze of pain and fear, you could feel it—the rhythm of his speech, the looseness of his grip, the blade no longer pressing with the same deadly certainty. His monologue flowed, each word laced with bitterness, but it was also growing sloppier, as his arrogance overtook his caution.

“Your little rebellion here means nothing. You’ll all fall to us, one way or another. No one stands against us and lives to—"

You didn’t let him finish.

In a surge of adrenaline, you kicked your legs up, swinging your foot with as much force as you could muster. The heel of your boot connected hard with the blade in his hand, sending it clattering across the stone ground. The drow yelped in fury and pain as the force of the blow snapped his fingers back, the sickening crack of bone ringing in your ears. He released his grip on your hair with a sharp intake of breath, stumbling back in shock and agony, clutching his broken extremities.

You fell on your back with a deep thud. Letting out an involuntary grunt, the fall had momentarily immobilized you, as your body tried to assess the damage. Your spine ached all the way down to your tailbone, which pulsated with a cruel sting. Your groans echoed through the crater, joining with the drow’s wails.

You heard the clattering of steel against stone again. Opening your eyes, they filled with fear as the drow walked towards you, blade back in both hands with two fingers bent in the wrong direction. He thrust up in the air to pierce your chest. You crawled backwards instinctively, but he was too fast. His biceps flexed: he was about to swing forward.

A giant, brown beast collided into him from the side, having jumped across the abyss. The bear roared with a deep, thunderous bellow, a powerful and resonant sound that rumbled like distant thunder, carrying the raw force of its primal strength. It was a familiar intonation; you had heard it the first day at the druids’ village. The rage filled small eyes gleamed in a green shade.

Its massive paws pummeled the dark elf, who was unable to do anything other than take each mighty strike. The bear hovered over you, the brown fur tickling your arms and legs as he continuously slammed down on the adversary. The crunching and cracking noises made you wince, holding your hands over your face.

The strikes continued for a while, until the bear let out another mighty roar. You dared not look at the result of the violence, but the drow didn’t move anymore.

His beastly form started glowing with a golden hue as he faced you lying beneath him. You peered at him through your fingers.

The bear transformed into Halsin, who hovered over you panting with exhaustion and excitement. Your breath was similarly fast, exhaling the fear and burning sensation in your legs out as you stared into each other’s eyes.

Both of you let out soft chuckles. You had done it. The village was safe. The children were protected again.

His eyes twitched back and forth from your eyes to your lips as your puffing synchronized shakily. Your heart was hammering against your chest. The jade hue in his eyes twinkled with a hunger you hadn’t seen before: it was the same craving you had had ever since you met him. He was waiting for something. Without really thinking, you nodded quickly.

He fell forward into your lips. You let out a moan as he kissed you hard and his body pressed into your own. He kept himself poised above you with his strong arms, but his leg pushed yours apart so he could press himself into you. Your tongues lapped each other up, the fiery taste trickling down your throat and intensifying the throbbing in your loins.

The intensity of your long-suppressed desires finally broke free. The mixture of happiness that he felt the way you did intertwined with the drive to please him. Both of you almost died. You had survived. You wanted each other now more than ever. You were both equally happy to see each other unharmed and could not wait any longer. There was no moment to think about timing.

Halsin's strong hands caressed your face, his touch gentle yet urgent. You wrapped your arms around his broad shoulders, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened. The heat between your bodies grew, months of unspoken longing pouring out through fevered touches and passionate embraces.

Halsin's lips trailed down your neck, eliciting soft gasps as he found sensitive spots. His hands roamed your body, exploring every curve with reverence. You arched into his touch, fingers tangling in his hair as waves of expectation washed over you.

Clothing was hastily shed, both of you eager to feel skin against skin. Halsin's muscular form pressed against you, his warmth enveloping you completely. His touch was electric, igniting sparks wherever his fingers grazed. You traced the planes of his beautiful chest, gazing entranced at his pristine physique - a vision you had only been imagining since you met him. The discarded clothes lay forgotten by your sides.

His eyes filled with primal urge, eyeing your sweat speckled body he had been carefully mending for a long time. You gazed at each other, panting from the exhaustion of the heist and the anticipation of what needed to happen between you.

The druid scooped you up in his strong arms, carrying you away from the grisly scene to a more secluded spot against a large oak tree. His lips never left yours as he gently set you down, then pressed you up against the rough bark. The contrast of the tree's coarse texture against your back and Halsin's warm, smooth skin against your front sent shivers through your body. His large hands squeezed fleshy parts of you as you gasped into his ear. Halsin growled low in his throat, the sound vibrating in your spine and making the flame within you burn blue.

Halsin's lips traced a sizzling path down your neck as he gripped your ass. He lifted you effortlessly, your legs wrapping around his waist as he pressed you against the tree. The rough bark scraped your back. He grasped his length and held it up against your entrance, staring at you with impatient craving. Yet, he waited for your approval. You hastily nodded your head and spatt out a breathy “Yes”, which was interrupted by him thrusting deep into you. Your head fell back as you cried out - he was so big. He dared not enter you fully, thrusting only half of himself into your tiny body.

He held you up, easily, kissing the side of your neck to comfort you through his wild and frantic punctures.

Your bodies moved together in a primal rhythm, finding a perfect synchronicity. Halsin's muscular form rippled with each thrust, his face a mask of passionate intensity as he grunted deeply. You clung to his broad shoulders, nails digging into his skin as waves of pleasure washed over you.

He carried you down to the forest floor, laying you gently on a bed of soft moss. Halsin hovered above you, his jade eyes dark with desire as he drank in the sight of your form. His hands roamed reverently over your curves before he lowered himself to you. His tongue tickled you and your back arched up aggressively into his mouth. You lay a hand on his honey hair and pushed him down into you. He obliged and licked faster, feeling you jerk and twist under his work. He chuckled teasingly into you, as he felt you get close.

“Not yet,…” he purred, staring up at you.

You rolled on top of him before he could continue teasing. You positioned yourself over his quaking cock.

Your thighs trembled with anticipation as you hovered over him. He gripped your hips, steadying you as you slowly lowered yourself onto his length. A soft gasp escaped your lips as you took him in, inch by delicious inch, until he was fully sheathed inside you.

For a moment, you both stayed still, reveling in the sensation of being so intimately connected. The druid’s chest rose and fell rapidly in the golden hue, as he fought to maintain control. You placed your hands on his broad chest, feeling the fast beating of his heart beneath your palms.

Then, with a roll of your hips, you began to move. Slowly at first, savoring every sensation as you rose and fell upon him, feeling him slide inside you was a bittersweet sensation, as your body trembled with each thrust. The stretching of your walls to accommodate his immense size sent a strange concoction of pain and pleasure coursing through you. It was almost overwhelming, the way he filled every inch of you, pushing boundaries that seemed impossible. But you couldn't deny the rush of excitement and ecstasy that came with it, making you shiver and arch your back in pure bliss. It was an experience like no other, one that left you breathless and wanting more.

Halsin's fingers dug into your flesh, guiding your movements as eager groans rumbled from him. You thought you heard him say something, but were too engulfed in riding him fiercely to activate your hearing.

He held you still with his strength and thrust up into you.

Your bodies synchronised again, each roll of your hips met by his upward drive. The forest around you seemed to pulse with energy, leaves rustling and branches swaying as if nature itself was swept up in your passionate union.

With a low growl, Halsin suddenly sat up, wrapping his arms around you and pulling you flush against his chest. He kissed you deeply, hungrily, as if he couldn't get enough. Then, in one fluid motion, he flipped you over onto your hands and knees.

You felt the soft moss beneath your palms as Halsin positioned himself behind you. His large hands caressed your back, tracing the curve of your spine before gripping your hips once more. You shivered, feeling his hardness pressing against your dripping hole. As he drilled into you, you felt him lean over your back, his towering form much larger than yours. His calloused hand softly wrapped around your neck, pulling your face up towards him.

You stared at each other as you let out deepseated moans, as you came all over him. Seeing the rapture flood through you, made him pound into you even harder. Halsin's thrusts became more urgent, his breathing ragged as he neared his peak.

You could feel the tension building in his body, muscles taut with exertion and pleasure.

With a final, deep thrust, Halsin let out a primal, inhuman roar. His body shuddered as he spilled himself inside you, his warmth flooding your core. You felt his cock pulse within you, drawing out the last waves of your own climax.

For a moment, you both remained still, panting heavily as the intensity of your shared release washed over you. Then, gently, Halsin eased out of you and gathered you into his arms. He lay back on the soft moss, cradling you against his broad chest.

You nestled into his warmth, feeling the rapid beating of his heart gradually slow, both your breathing matching each other.

Your bodies eased into the softness of the ground and the druid and you let out highly needed laughs.

As your giggles subsided, you both lay there in comfortable silence, basking in the afterglow of your passionate encounter. The forest around you seemed to hum with contentment, the gentle rustling of leaves and distant chirping of nocturnal creatures creating a soothing symphony.

Halsin's fingers traced lazy patterns on your skin, sending pleasant shivers down your spine. You nestled closer to him, resting your head on his broad chest, listening to the strong rhythm of his heartbeat.

"You know," Halsin began, his deep voice rumbling in his chest, "I've been wanting to do that for quite some time now."

You chuckled softly, tilting your head to meet his gaze. "Oh really? And here I thought I was the only one pining away."

His jade eyes sparkled with amusement and affection. "Pining, were you?”

“Fuck yes. When you first found me in the forest, I thought you were a God about to take me up to the Heavens. Couldn’t believe someone as handsome as you was semi-mortal.”

Halsin chuckled and pet your hair: “Even close to death, I couldn’t keep my eyes off you. Although I don’t like remembering seeing you like that. I am still beyond thankful to Silvanus that you pushed through that vile injury.”

You remembered something as he spoke of your first encounter.

“Hey, you were kissing me when I was unconscious, that’s a bit rude isn’t it?”

He laughed again: “I did not, I was bringing you back from the dead, mind you! Simple first aid, but effective.”

“First aid, sure.”

Halsin's eyes twinkled with mischief as he gazed at you. "Well, if you'd prefer, next time I find you half-dead, I'll just leave you be. Wouldn't want to be accused of taking advantage."

You snorted, playfully swatting his chest. "Oh please, as if you could resist these lips, even in a coma."

He giggled sweetly, the sound rumbling through his chest again and into yours. "You're right, I couldn't. Though I must say, you're much more enticing when you're conscious and not bleeding out. You have a crazy fascination with tempting fate. I must say I’ve never met someone like you before."

"Flatterer," you teased, tracing idle patterns on his skin. "I bet you say that to all the bards you rescue from certain doom."

Halsin's expression softened, his hand coming to cup your cheek. "Only the ones who’ve stolen my heart.”

You could've fainted right then. Your cheeks flushed even more.

He grinned, reaching up to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear: "You came charging into our village, disrupting our peaceful way of life with your enchanting melodies and irresistible charm."

"Ah yes, because nothing says 'irresistible charm' quite like being half-way across the finish line of life.”

Both of you laughed together for a bit longer. You reminisced about the insanity of your unsually successful overthrow of the drow base. Halsin mused over how he was going to explain any of this to others’ in the village, especially the Archdruid. You promised to take the blame, it was your idea anyway.

As the first light of dawn began to filter through the forest canopy, you and Halsin reluctantly disentangled yourselves from each other's embrace. The cool morning air raised goosebumps on your skin as you gathered your discarded clothing, stealing glances and sharing soft smiles as you dressed.

Halsin's companions, Frelma and Danan, had long since returned to the village, trusting their leader to get home. As you made your way back through the forest, Halsin's hand found yours, his fingers intertwining with your own. The warmth of his touch sent a thrill through you.

The forest seemed different now, more alive and vibrant than ever before. Perhaps it was the afterglow of your encounter, or maybe it was the newfound connection you felt to this place and the man beside you.

As you and Halsin approached the druid village, you could hear the Archdruid's booming voice even before you saw him. His face was contorted with fury as he paced back and forth, gesticulating wildly. Hesitating slightly, you two walked through the entrance and were met with dangerous bellows, insults and worried eyes. Dafydd hit Halsin over the head a few times with his staff, while Anwen exasperately held your shoulders to check you for any injuries. Ultimately, they were right to be angry and concerned. The elder druid placed the blame on her son, although you insisted you were the main plotter (she didn’t believe you). You were certain they would ban you, yet they showered you in flower crowns and good mead. Halsin was eventually allowed into the festivities, after promising to clean up cow dung for 6 months as punishment.

You couldn’t stay in the village, as you had no desire to convert to druidism. Relucantly you returned to the city.

You vowed to come visit often, making your trips to the forest known, so he could see you. You promised to convince Anwen that Halsin could join you on your travels one day. Although that conversation had to wait a long while.

With each visit, you found little baskets of berries from the children and a newly whittled duck figurine that made you smile under your usual tree.

And every time your form became visible upon the horizon of the village, emerging from the forest path, Halsin’s eyes lit up and beamed at you.

#halsin bg3 #halsin #bg3 #halsin x reader #halsin x you #young halsin #young druid halsin #halsin silverbough #baldurs gate 3 #baldurs gate 3 fanfiction #halsin fanfic #Spotify

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truevedicastrology · 1 year ago

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Unraveling Mars Across the Astrological Houses 1-12

In the realm of Vedic Astrology, the cosmic dance of celestial bodies paints a unique tapestry within the twelve houses of your chart. Each house, a stage for planetary performances, unravels a saga of influences. Mars, the celestial warrior, graces these houses, igniting diverse flames that shape one's essence. Let's embark on an odyssey through the cosmic abode of Mars, unwinding the enigmatic energies it bestows upon each house.

#1 The Martian Incarnation in the First House In the inaugural house, Mars orchestrates a symphony of war and aggression. Aligned with Aries, Scorpio, and Leo, this celestial warrior molds individuals with an innate inclination towards assertiveness. While viewed as a double-edged sword, the Martian presence ignites an indomitable spirit, fostering drive and self-reliance. The pulsating energy may, at times, manifest impulsively, a testament to the intricate dance between strength and restraint.

#2 Mars' Stint in the Second House As Mars graces the second house, financial realms become a canvas for its assertive strokes. Ventures burgeon with calculated risks, unveiling a heightened awareness of one's worth. The duality emerges – a prowess in wealth accumulation juxtaposed against the specter of aggression and competitiveness. Mars in the second house, a financial maestro, beckons a narrative of both prosperity and caution.

#3 The Enigma of Mars in the Third House Nestled in the third house, Mars births assertiveness and boundless energy. A harbinger of curiosity, individuals become swift responders, navigating life impulsively. Independence becomes a beacon, steering the ship of self-control. Yet, the paradox unfolds – the boon of ambition accompanied by the bane of impulsivity. Mars in the third house, an enigmatic force, grants vigor, demanding a delicate balance.

#4 Mars' Homely Vigor in the Fourth House In the fourth house, Mars dons the mantle of a domestic force. A patriotic fervor, a love for the home, and an independent streak mark its presence. The warrior's link to the land roots individuals deeply, fostering both independence and combativeness. A complex interplay unfolds – self-reliance and ambition converging with potential aggression and impatience.

#5 The Fiery Canvas of the Fifth House Within the fifth house, Mars paints a portrait of fiery spirit, impulsive nature, and quick temperaments. The canvas reveals a penchant for challenge, drawing individuals to conflict-laden arenas. Energies surge, propelling assertiveness and focus, yet pitfalls loom. Negative signs cast shadows – anger, conflict, and potentially dangerous inclinations. Mars in the fifth house, a dynamic brushstroke, depicts both vitality and caution.

#6 Mars' Work Ethic in the Sixth House Positioned in the sixth house, Mars becomes the driving force in the realm of work and service. An individual emerges, resilient, driven, and dutiful. Work ethic becomes an emblem, and competitiveness a potent ally. Yet, lurking beneath are shadows of over-competitiveness and relentless perfectionism. The sixth house echoes with the paradox of ambition and stress, demanding a nuanced understanding.

#7 Mars' Assertiveness in the Seventh House In the seventh house, Mars radiates with assertiveness and confidence. Ambition drives a thirst for achievement, entwined with an individual's maturity and chart dynamics. The pendulum swings – a testament to both beneficial leadership qualities and impulsive tendencies. Balanced management of impulses becomes pivotal, lest they cascade into destructive behaviors.

#8 Mars' Determination in the Eighth House As Mars graces the eighth house, determination and focus come to the fore. A relentless pursuit of goals defines this period, where hard work intertwines with assertiveness. Yet, the delicate equilibrium trembles – the risk of veering into aggression and impulsive realms surfaces. A thorough exploration of individual placements is imperative to unravel the intricacies of Mars in the eighth house.

#9 Mars' Influence in the Ninth House Ninth-house encounters with Mars bring forth a tapestry of beliefs and emotions. Attractions to power and authority emerge, adding complexity to professional and personal landscapes. A compelling trait arises, juxtaposed with potential insecurities. The ninth house dances on a tightrope, balancing a robust belief system with a rebellious streak, navigating a journey through philosophy and self-discovery.

#10 Mars' Ambitions in the Tenth House In the tenth house, Mars signals a symphony of ambition, competitiveness, and an ardent desire for success. A canvas painted with determination unfolds, portraying an individual driven to leave an indelible mark on the world. However, caution is advised – the penchant for aggression and excessive competitiveness lurks, posing potential conflicts with others.

#11 Mars' Vision in the Eleventh House Nestled in the eleventh house, Mars orchestrates a vision of energy, assertiveness, and a commitment to the greater good. A leader or pioneer emerges, propelled by an unwavering desire to make a difference. The dichotomy of strength and challenge surfaces – a surge of energy, passion, and initiative intertwined with the shadows of anger, aggression, and impulsiveness.

#12 Mars' Passion in the Twelfth House Mars takes residence in the twelfth house, unveiling a passionate and determined individual unafraid of confronting challenges. A leader in the shadows, creativity intertwines with self-expression. Challenges arise – struggles with self-confidence and hesitations in taking worldly actions. Yet, strengths surface – a reservoir of passion, drive, and intuitive prowess. The twelfth house echoes with the complexity of self-expression and an innate talent for healing.

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butchsophiewalten · 8 months ago

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03/03/2024 Twitter Space Recap (1/2)

Martin & Kyle did a twitter space (with a late appearance of Eva) in the earliest hours of the day on the 3rd, here's a recap of what they talked about then:

-Kyle brings up that he wants to do a charity stream for the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund! He says Him, Martin, Coral, and Eva would be there playing Lethal Company. He says he plans to do this "sometime this month".

-Martin describes the 'Walten Dog Saga', saying that first the family got Carlitos, who was Sophie's dog, and everybody loved him, but then one day in 1968, they're playing and then Carlitos gets run over. And it's so tragic that they're like, 'no more dogs!', until one day in 1973 Jack runs into this homeless street dog and brings him home, and names him Jaimito, and they have him for a few months before he bites Edd's arm and "almost gives him rabies", so Jack just gives the dog to Susan, and the one week that she has this dog is like the worst week of her life. He pees everywhere, he tears up her furniture, and after a week of that he just peacefully dies while Susan is out of the house.

-Martin says that aspects of episode 5 are inspired by some of the leaked stuff he's seen from Joker 2. "It's a very fairy-tale, unreliable narrator kind of episode."

-Martin spitballs his "perfect idea for a Walten Files game", a PS1-style game where you work as a Bon's Burger's employee, "in the kitchen at 3am making burgers", fixing up orders to be delivered (by another employee, I'm assuming? He mentions 'a guy with a motorcycle', so I think this is what he means. Like pizza delivery.) He talks about how the supply closet would be on the other side of the restaurant, so whenever you run out of ingredients you'd have to walk all the way over there and back in the dark. He says it'd be really funny if there wasn't even anything supernatural in it.

-Martin talks about how it really bothers him when people say or imply that, because The Walten Files takes place in the time period it does, it would be more accurate or make more sense for his characters to be bigoted. He brings up a specific instance where someone asked him how the other BSI employees would treat Chris. "The point that this person was making is that it would make sense for the team to be racist, and I was like 'No, it doesn't make sense! That shouldn't happen, it shouldn't be a thing!'" He goes on to say... "And then it was shit like, [mockingly] 'Why are Sophie and Jenny a couple if it was the 1980s?' and it's like, gay people existed in the 1980s!"

"It's just like, just because something was the thing back then, doesn't mean the characters should do a very bad and harmful thing, y'know? It's a really stupid mindset, in my opinion."

-Kyle talks about this genuinely really funny Showstoppers Halloween special idea he had a long time ago, where the Showstoppers are really excited for the holiday, but for some reason Bon has never heard of Halloween before, and the other Showstoppers have to explain it to him, telling him about costumes and trick-or-treating and everything. And it culminates with them going up to somebody's doorstep to trick-or-treat, and all the Showstoppers are telling Bon that he should go first since he's the newbie, and when he knocks on the door some lady answers, going "Hello! How are-" and then she looks up in horror. And the shot reverses to show like a full, "hyper-realistic" Scary Animatronic Bon looming over to her, with a Text-To-Speech voice going "Trick.... Or.... Treat."

-Martin talks about his own funny showstoppers idea, where Bon, for some inexplicable reason, has the feeling that he is dying. and he spends the whole episode trying to make amends with people and be nice to his friends, like 'I don't hate you, Banny, I really care about you,' 'Boozoo, you can have Bon's Burgers when I'm gone, because you're my friend and I trust you,' etc. And at the end of the episode you find out he just had a tummy ache, and he was being really dramatic about it.

-After some related banter, Martin jokes that it'd be funny if Jack was at a table eating with the rest of the 'Bunny Smiles family', and out of the blue he goes, like, 'I've got a tummy ache! :(' in a really high-pitched voice. Eva, who had joined the space a while earlier, jokes that his normal voice is just him faking it, and the high-pitched voice is what he actually sounds like.

-They talk about various Godzilla movies for a while, and Martin brings up how he really enjoyed the way Minus One managed to connect the narrative between its human and its monster characters, and how that's something he thinks a lot of other monster movies and horror films fail to do.

"Y'know, it's funny, because when I wrote The Walten Files, I always had the idea that like, there are two parts of the story? Part one, which is like, the human drama, and Edd and Molly, and the crash. And then part two, which has more to do with the animatronics and the place itself. And you have this feeling where there's going to be a moment where those two parts connect and link to each other, and I think that's something you gotta have in, like, horror movies, where- it- you can't just like, make up characters, and just put them in the existing world and have them exist, and then just sit around waiting for the killer to appear, y'know?"

-Eva brings up an incident that's been happening in the Walten Files community on Twitter, where some people have been getting some flack over headcanoning members of The Showstoppers as Black. Martin gets really incensed talked about how much this bothers him, saying "I saw that, it's so fucking stupid. If you- It's just common sense! If you look at someone going 'Hey, I think this character would be Black, I headcanon this character as black,' and you go, like 'I'm not comfortable with that,' what the fuck do you mean? How? That's so weird! And that's what I'm saying, it's like, how does it effect the story in any way that would be negative to you? Like, the only way you would be against that, is if you were like, racist. And it's like, huh? And I think, a lot of people bring up the argument that, 'Ah, but this character is clearly intended to be White,' and it's like, who cares! Who gives a shit? Like, that's not, like a valid argument to go against someone for doing something like that. It would be very different if, for example, someone looked at Chris and went, like, 'What if he was White?', it's very different. The context of that is very different, than just headcanoning a character as Black, y'know? That's completely fine and normal. Why would you be against that, that's so weird."

"I find it even funnier, because, from what it looked like, it was because someone said they headcanon Sha as Black, and it's like, that makes so much sense! I mean, like, I think that if Sha had a human design, she'd definitely not- she wouldn't be white... again, if you're against headcanons like that, you- you're not welcome here."

-"We end this stream saying these few words: Headcanoning characters as people of color is great, supporting Palestine is great, uh, being a Zionist is Bad! Being a racist is bad! And if you like Godzilla: I will give you a kiss on the head. Muah!"

___ They ended up holding another Space much later the same day, which I've decided to cover in a separate post, because it's twice as long as this one, and a lot more of the conversation in it was Walten Files-Centric, so the recap will take way longer to write.

#the walten files #twitter space recap #I'm heading right to bed after posting this laalala #I promise I'll write the Big Long recap tomorrow... I can do it...

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itacats · 15 days ago

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Under the Shadow of Ghost

FT: Simon "Ghost" Riley x gn!reader

Warnings: trauma, war themes, nightmares, hospital environment, feelings of guilt/failure, please let me know if anything else should be here!🙏

A/N: Guess what? Part 6 has officially dropped! Yep, the saga continues. Grab your favorite snack, settle in, and dive right back into the story.

Read Part 1 here! Read Part 2 here! Read Part 3 here! Read Part 4 here! Read Part 5 here! Read Part 7 here! Read Part 8 here! Read Part 9 here!

Part 6: Shadows and Whispers

The hospital walls loomed around me, stark white and cold, a reflection of the sterile life I was now confined to. The air was thick, tainted by the scent of antiseptic, but beneath it lingered something else—something unspoken, lurking in the unasked questions of those who passed by my room. The doctors, the nurses, they all had the same look in their eyes, a mixture of pity and hesitation. As if they wanted to ask what had happened, but knew the truth would be too ugly to face.

Recovery wasn’t a straight path. It was jagged, like the shards of my shattered mind, each step forward dragging me through the broken pieces of myself. The physical wounds—they could heal. The bruises would fade, the scars would form, but the deeper wounds—the ones carved into my psyche—those would linger, festering in the dark corners of my mind. Each night, as the world outside the hospital drifted into slumber, the nightmares came, relentless and unyielding.

In those nightmares, I saw them. My captors. Their faces twisted into grotesque masks of cruelty, eyes gleaming with malice. Their laughter echoed through the recesses of my mind, a haunting, mocking sound that made my skin crawl. They had a way of invading the darkness, warping it into a cage that I could never escape. Each scream I heard, each cry for mercy, was my own voice thrown back at me, distorted and alien. And no matter how hard I tried to claw my way out, I was never truly safe.

The nights stretched on endlessly, an unbroken chain of torment. And yet, amidst the suffocating weight of my memories, there was one constant—Simon. He was always there, a shadow standing guard at the edge of my consciousness, his presence a faint whisper against the roar of my fears.

He didn’t speak. He didn’t need to.

He would come at night, slipping into the sterile confines of the hospital room like a ghost—fitting, given his name. The first few times, I thought I was dreaming. His form, tall and silent, would materialize against the backdrop of the dim, artificial light. His skull mask, which had always seemed so imposing on the battlefield, now felt like an anchor—something solid to cling to in the storm of my mind. Simon had become my tether to reality, a lifeline pulling me back from the abyss I so often found myself teetering on.

There were no words between us. No explanations or reassurances. He would simply sit, his presence a quiet comfort in the face of my unraveling. The chair beside my bed creaked under his weight, the sound somehow grounding in the stillness of the room. And as much as I tried to hide it, he knew. He could see the ghosts that haunted me, just as I had glimpsed the ones that followed him. We shared the same burden, carried the same scars—though his had long since healed into the hard, unbreakable armor he wore every day. Mine were still raw, still bleeding beneath the surface.

There was something in the way he sat there, unmoving, his silence a mirror to my own. It was as if the two of us had entered into an unspoken pact, one where words were unnecessary because we already knew the truth: *we were broken*. Not in the way that could be fixed with stitches or bandages, but in the way that only time and shared pain could begin to mend.

I would lay there, eyes closed, feigning sleep while the memories clawed at the edges of my mind. I felt his presence, his steady breathing in the silence, and it became the metronome that calmed my racing heart. It was strange, how someone so scarred, so hardened by years of battle, could exude a sense of peace that nothing else could. Perhaps it was because he, too, had fought the same war—both within and without. He knew the demons I faced, because they were the same demons that haunted him.

And then there was the grief—his grief. Though he never showed it, I could feel it hanging in the air between us, heavy and oppressive. It clung to him, wrapping itself around his silent form like a shroud. He had lost people—just like I had. He had seen the same horrors, felt the same crushing weight of failure. But where I crumbled beneath it, he stood firm, a silent sentinel against the darkness.

There were nights when I would wake, drenched in sweat, heart pounding in my chest like a war drum. The nightmares clung to me like a second skin, suffocating me with their weight. And in those moments, when the world felt too heavy to bear, I would open my eyes to find Simon still there, his gaze unwavering, as if his very presence was enough to push back the shadows.

It was during one of those nights that I finally spoke. My voice was hoarse, barely a whisper, but it was enough to break the silence that had settled over us like a heavy fog.

“I... I see them,” I muttered, my throat tight, as if the words themselves were strangling me.

Simon didn’t respond, didn’t even turn his head. But I knew he was listening.

“They’re always there,” I continued, my voice cracking under the weight of the memories. “Laughing. Mocking me. I can’t... I can’t get away from them.”

The silence stretched on for what felt like an eternity, the only sound the rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor beside my bed. And then, in the quietest of voices, Simon spoke.

“You will.”

His words, simple and without fanfare, cut through the haze of fear that had enveloped me. There was no promise in them, no false hope—just a quiet certainty that, somehow, I would survive this. Just as he had survived his own ghosts.

I looked at him then, really looked at him. And in that moment, I saw not just the soldier, not just the mask. I saw the man beneath—the man who had walked through the same fires I was now trapped in, who had emerged on the other side, scarred but still standing.

He was my Ghost, yes. But he was also my reminder that even in the darkest of nights, there was always a way back to the light.

And for the first time in what felt like forever, I believed him.

Read Part 7 here!

You made it through Part 6! Thanks for sticking around and following along. Keep an eye out for the next chapter, along with a new story starting up tomorrow!

#bt extra #ghost x reader #simon ghost riley #simon riley x reader #cod fic #fanfic #ghost cod #call of duty #under the shadow of ghost #gn reader

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futuremrsdrcullen · 3 months ago

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This Love Came Back To Me - Chapter 1

It's Finally Here!!!! I can not apologize enough for how long this took to get out. But here it is! I hope you love it.

Summery- I was completely overwhelmed with this looming dread. This wasn’t just about Bella anymore. Though that was bad enough, this involved me now. Despite how often Edward disregarded my safety and despite how desperately Carlisle tried to protect me from this;

My life was in danger.

It was never going to end was it?

Word Count- 10,397

Warnings- Vampires- and all the things that go along with vampires (blood, biting, age gaps, sparkling, dramatics) a lot more swearing this time. There's some minor injuries and some very minor character death. mentions of vomiting (2 actual vomits, due to injury) Battle, fighting and planning. It's all very happy I promise.

There is no imprinting and there never will be <3

Notes from me- My name is Claire and this! This is finally my third love child. I started writing this on the 27th of July in 2022. I lost hope a few times but it's here and I hope you love it. Thank you, so so much for staying with me.

As always, I DO NOT own The Twilight Saga. All rights go directly to S. Meyer.

Read on AO3 <3

Masterlist <3

I love you <3 Thank you for still being here <3

When our flight landed in Portland, I could hardly stay awake long enough to get to the car. Carlisle held my hand as I used him for support as we made our way through the airport.

Being in Portland typically meant the drive home would take a bit longer than if we we’re just in Seattle, but the Cullens rarely drove under 100mph, so it didn’t take nearly as long.

Carlisle didn’t want me anywhere near Seattle and, after hearing all that was going on, I couldn’t say I disagreed. The knowledge that another vampire was reeking havoc worried me more than I let on. So many people had already been murdered, and the numbers continued to grow.

I wasn’t really worried for my own safety, I knew Carlisle would do everything to protect me. I also knew that Edward and Jacob would do everything to protect Bella; even if Jacob wanted to pretend he hated her most of the time.

My main concern was that if this got too loud- if my family had to go to Seattle to ‘handle’ it, we didn’t know what they were going there to handle. We didn’t know how many vampires were there. We didn’t know who was there. If this was so out of control that the Cullens had to step in, who else would also step in. They assured me every time that it wouldn’t come to that and if it did, they could take care of it. It didn’t make me feel better.

We drove home from Portland in only three hours. Thankfully we went to Carlisle’s house rather than mine. I knew Dad would have a hundred questions about my trip and probably more about Bella’s upcoming trip, that I wouldn’t have the energy to answer. I hadn’t given Dad an exact date for our return yet, so a few more hours away wouldn’t hurt.

I took a deep breath as soon as we walked in the front door and Carlisle turned sharply to me. If I didn’t know him as well as I did, I probably would have missed the worry on his face. I smiled warmly at him, trying to ease his concern.

“It’s nice to be home.” I whispered. His eyes lit up at the word home; Not his house, but home. I really did feel at home here. I was sure Edward or Jasper had caught on, but with Carlisle, I told him through small gestures. I claimed a side of the bed. I filled the bedside table with my things. He made room in the closet for my clothes. (I didn’t have time to actually bring clothes over, before Alice bought stuff for me.) I brought over my toothbrush and my pillow and my favorite towel and somehow he was still excited to hear me call his house home.

He wrapped me up in his arms and I hid my face in his chest.

“It really is.”

The others trickled in slowly. We greeted them from our spots on the couch. He of course told me who exactly was coming before they came in. I still looked up over my book and smiled at all of them.

Alice informed us that Bella and Edward would be coming over to hang out later so I made a small meal for the two of us. I knew that Dad was definitely home from work now and I knew that Edward was going to bring up their trip to Jacksonville. I was just happy I didn’t have to be home for that conversation.

When Bella and Edward got to the house, I could tell she was irritated, but she was also clearly happy to see me. She plopped down on the couch between me and Alice, and wrapped her arms around me.

“Welcome home! I missed you! How was your trip?” I couldn’t help but giggle as I hugged her back. Edward and Carlisle shared a look. I wondered how much was being shared that we couldn’t hear. Carlisle’s hand briefly tightened over mine.

I chose to play along and keep Bella distracted. “It was good. Ireland is beautiful.”

“I bet! I should add it to potential vacation spots.” She shared a look with Edward who looked triumphant somehow. I guessed that Carlisle told him how the tracking went. “Edward sprung on Dad that we're going to Jacksonville.” She practically glared at him.

It made me laugh again, “How did that go?”

“So bad.” She ran a hand over her face. “I hate it when he treats me like a child.” This time Carlisle chuckled from my side, though I don’t think she noticed. “He hardly questioned your trip.”

“I’m 21…”

“Yeah and I’m 18!” She rolled her eyes. “I just want him to trust me-”

“He doesn’t trust me…” Edward added. Everyone in the room was smiling softly, save for Bella, who looked like she could fight someone.

“Well he’s just going to have to get over it. Though it might have been easier if I could have eased him into it.”

“I highly doubt that would be better.” I tried. “At least, if Edward is there, he could take it out on him.”

She threw her head back and sighed, hopefully realizing how childish this felt. “He shouldn’t…”

“No he shouldn’t-” I moved from Carlisle's shoulder to hers and ran a hand through her hair. “-but he’ll get over it.”

“If we’re lucky… When are you planning on heading home?”

“Later, maybe tomorrow. I’m not sure yet.” I caught on to the shift in conversation. As I went along with it she already seemed to lighten up. “I made soup, if you want some.”

“Hmm. Maybe later. How did the hunting thing go?” she asked like she had been waiting for the chance.

I felt Carlisle wince, “I didn’t hunt her… I tried to track her-”

“Sure, sure. How did it go?”

I blushed and he squeezed my hand. “He found me… I didn’t get too lost.”

“Obviously. But did you track her?” Edward asked, even though he probably already knew the answer.

I moved again, back to Carlisle’s shoulder, he held me closer. “I could, at times. However for the most part… It was like she was never really there at all.”

“Because. She’s. Not. Trackable.” His confidence was over the top. He said the words like it proved a point he’d made a hundred times.

“Sometimes.” Carlisle added.

“I could try-” Edward started.

“Absolutely not.” I knew he wouldn’t let anyone else try, and I didn’t really want to try with anyone else either.

The room got quiet for a minute. I squeezed Carlisle’s hand this time.

Bella stood abruptly and changed the subject. “We should play chess!” She walked over to their cute little chess table that sat by the window and chose which side she wanted to sit on. “I’ve been practicing. I think I can at least beat Jasper.”

That awarded her a handful of laughter from the room.

“Challenge accepted.” Jasper sat across from her and the battle began. Edward and Carlisle stared at each other for a few seconds more, before Edward nodded once and moved to stand by Bella.

Bella did not beat Jasper.

I drove Bella home later that night. Carlisle kissed me like he wasn’t ready for me to go. It almost convinced me to stay, but I figured it was better to go see Dad, rather than have him chase me down. Edward kissed Bella and whispered something to her. I’m sure it was something like ‘ I’m gonna climb in your window the second your father is asleep. ’

His soft chuckle meant I was right.

Carlisle walked me to my car and held open the door for me.

“I love you.” I whispered before kissing him again.

“I love you.” Followed by another short peck. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow…” I sighed.

When we got home, Dad was watching some game in the living room. I really thought Bella was just going to move upstairs and try to not catch his attention. I wondered how bad their conversation earlier went if even now she felt the need to avoid him.

“Could you come in here, Bella?” He called. Bella winced and froze. She looked like she wanted to bang her head on the wall. Instead she managed to drag herself into the living room.

“What’s up, Dad?”

“Did you have a nice time- Oh, Y/n! You’re home too. How was your trip?”

I laughed a little, thinking Bella might use his distraction to bolt, but she didn’t move. “It was good. I got you a souvenir mug, but it’s in my bag.” I motioned towards the door; I hadn’t thought to bring my suitcase in yet.

He waved me off, “We can get it later. Thank you.” I could tell something was bothering him. He turned to face Bella. “Bells?”

“Yeah, good… My day was good.”

“What did you do?” I hadn’t figured out why he was being so weird, and Bella looked at me like she was just as lost.

She shrugged. “Hung out with Y/n, and Carlisle and Alice and Jasper. Edward Beat Alice at chess, and then I played Jasper. He buried me.”

I walked further into the living room, Bella followed behind me. She even sat next to me on the couch. Dad sat forward in the recliner and muted the game, which genuinely took me by surprise. Instead of showing it, I pretended to be very interested in the fringe on the couch pillow.

“Look, there’s something I need to say. .. Y/n, I think you can back me up here.” My eyes went wide. He looked like he had been punched in the gut.

“What is it, Dad?”

He sighed. “I’m not good at this kind of thing. I don’t know how to start…”

Bella stayed quiet, looking at his face. I was starting to catch on and really wished I could be anywhere, but here. I held back a laugh, covering my mouth with the back of my hand, and stared out the closest window.

“Okay, Bella. Here’s the thing.” He got up from the recliner and started pacing back and forth across the living room. He kept his eyes on his feet. “You and Edward seem pretty serious, and there are some things that you need to be careful about. I know you’re an adult now, but you’re still young, Bella, Y/n is too. We also had a talk similar to this. But there are a lot of important things you need to know when you… well when you’re physically involved with-”

It took a lot of strength to contain my giggles. I was grateful that Bella finally caught on.

“Oh, please, please , no!” She begged, standing immediately. “Please, tell me you are not about to have a sex talk with me, Charlie.”

I almost winced when she said his name but it was like watching a train wreck; I could not bring myself to look away.

“I am your father. I have responsibilities. Remember, We’re just as embarrassed as you are, right Y/n?”

“I am not involved in this.” I tried to sound serious, but couldn’t hide my giggles.

Bella continued to try and stop him. “I don’t think that’s humanly possible. Anyway, Mom beat you to the punch about ten years ago. You’re off the hook.” She tried, but I knew it wouldn’t work.

“Ten years ago you didn't have a boyfriend,” he muttered, I could tell how much he wanted to change the subject.

“I don’t think the essentials have changed that much.”

Except that they had, just not in a way that Dad could provide advice for. There was no way the talk Renee and Bella had ten years ago mentioned vampire sex. And, though my knowledge of basic human sex was nonexistent, I was probably the only one here who could really explain it to her. Still, I very much did not want to do that. So I continued to bite my tongue and watched this play out.

“Just tell me you two are being responsible,” he pleaded. He looked like he wanted to fall over dead, rather than actually hear her answer.

“Don’t worry about it, Dad, it’s not like that.” I knew at least that much was true. Carlisle wouldn’t tell me much- Thank god…- just that Edward didn’t want to test his control the way Carlisle could with me.

I also knew my input here would just raise more questions and therefore be of no help. I just stayed quiet and tried not to laugh too hard.

“Not that I don’t trust you, Bella, but I know you don’t want to tell me anything about this, and you both know that I don’t really want to hear it. I’ve been open minded with Y/n, I know times have changed.”

She forced a laugh while I forced back another. “Maybe the times have, but Edward is very old-fashioned. You have nothing to worry about.”

I wondered what that meant exactly, but quickly decided I did not want to know.

Dad mumbled, “Sure he is.” I stood and walked toward the kitchen. “Y/n, please.” I froze but didn’t turn around.

“Ugh!” She groaned “I really wish you were not forcing me to say this out loud, Dad.��Really. But… I am a… virgin, and I have no immediate plans to change that status.”

They both cringed. I let out a sharp bark of a laugh. Dad seemed to believe her, thankfully. I started moving slowly toward the front door. Hopefully slow enough that they wouldn’t notice.

I heard her continued pleas as I tiptoed out of the room. “Can I go to bed, now? Please.” I didn’t hear his response but based on her heavy dramatic sigh, I guessed he said no.

I went out to my car so I could bring my suitcase in. I wanted to wash my vacation clothes and grab the mug for Dad and the necklace for Bella.

I also wanted to get as far away from that conversation. I would have driven back to the Cullens house if Dad wouldn’t have caught up with me. It wasn’t even that long before he was outside next to me, helping me with my bags.

I made eye contact with him and immediately burst out laughing. He did too.

“You were no help back there.” He sounded stern but he was still laughing.

“I didn’t think my opinion would have been all that appreciated. She’s going to do her own thing anyway.”

He winced, “I know… If she comes to you… for advice or… help-”

“I’ll make sure she’s safe, Dad.”

“Good. Good…” He nodded and moved towards the door. “Thanks kid.” He drifted back into the living room without another word. I took my suitcase and headed upstairs.

I stopped by Bella’s room. Her door was open just a bit, I pushed it open a bit more as I knocked. “Bells?”

When I peaked in she was sitting on her bed focusing on the window. I doubted that Edward would be back yet, so I wondered what she was focused on.

“Oh, hey. What’s up?” She looked up and smiled at me.

“I’m sorry about Dad. That was-”

“Awkward?” She laughed and I nodded. “It’s fine. He ended up giving me more freedom by the end of it anyway.”

“He was definitely easier on you than he was on me. At least yours didn’t involve bananas…” I chuckled.

“That would have been so much worse…” We both laughed, “Hey… about that…” She was hesitant. I was afraid to push her. I just watched as she processed what to say. “Do… do you and Carlisle…”

She cut off but I caught on to her meaning. “Oh, uhm… Yeah.” I think my answer just confused her more, so I added, “But it’s Carlisle…So we don’t really have to worry about his control…”

She made a face like that had never even dawned on her. I was grateful that at least Edward had considered it.

She nodded. “Oh! Right. Of course.” Her face was still lost.

“Just be careful, alright? And if you need anything…”

“I’ll come to you first, I promise.”

I nodded and turned to leave. I paused for just a second and added. “It may be too late… but don’t think about it, Bella. Just go.” I looked out the window again then down the hall.

It was the push she needed. She grabbed her keys and ran back downstairs. I laughed and headed towards my room.

It, in fact, proved to be late. Her truck wouldn't start, so only a few moments later, she was stomping back up the stairs and slamming her bedroom door. I thought I heard her close her window, but I knew she wouldn't stay mad at Edward long. Even if he was being overly controlling.

I hoped she wouldn't give up.

I knew Bella was safe in Jacksonville. I knew that there were five Cullens against one Victoria. But I still couldn’t quell the panic in my chest the entire time I was down in La Push.

I couldn’t tell what game was on TV, despite how much Dad and Billy were yelling at the screen. I bit my nails so much they hurt. Between intense moments of the game, Dad probably asked me a hundred times if I was alright.

I stuck to the standard ‘I’m fine…’ and ‘I’m just distracted’ though I don’t think he bought it. I manically turned my phone off and on again, over and over hoping a message would appear.

But, of course, it remained undisturbed.

I tried to nap on the couch, but everything was too loud. Desperate for a just moment of peace; I wandered out to the porch, muttering to Dad that I just needed air. I saw the concern on his face, but he didn’t follow.

As soon as I was outside I pressed my forehead to the cool siding of the house. I wasn’t even out there for 5 minutes before Sam walked up and ruined my quiet. I wasn’t expecting to see him at all and honestly, I didn’t really want to see him. As he approached me I really did try to resist glaring at him.

He didn’t offer me an overwhelmingly warm greeting, just “I heard you were back from your trip. Thought I’d swing by and say hello.” I caught on to his meaning and rolled my eyes. “Jacob will be visiting Bella when she returns as well. Just to check.”

I choked out a laugh. “Well- with me at least, you have nothing to worry about yet.”

“Yet?”

I shrugged. I had no interest in playing their game; no intention of giving him any information on my plans- or lack thereof.

“It would break the treaty…”

“It’s my choice.”

“It puts every single person in your life in danger.” I knew he had good intentions, even if he was being a jerk about it.

I shrugged again, just to piss him off. He actually scoffed.

“I know you have a family to protect, Sam, but so do I. Bella is stubborn and this is what she has decided. She won’t give up, she doesn’t care about the treaty. She wants to be one of them. That being said, there are a bunch of people who now want her dead. She won’t be safe until she is one of them. I understand that you think otherwise. I know that you’re trying to protect your family, but I have to do what's right for mine as well.”

He looked like he was at least considering it, but he still shook his head. He was quiet for a long moment before stepping down the porch.

“... I have to get back… Just, try. Please?”

I tried to catch the meaning in his words, but there were too many possibilities. I nodded and grinned at him, hoping to get him to lighten up a bit. He didn’t. Once he fully disappeared into the trees, I rolled my eyes and went back into the house, out of the rain.

Dad went straight to bed when we got home, seemingly unaware of my overwhelming anxiety. He got up the next morning, made himself eggs and toast, kissed my forehead and went to work like everything was completely normal. He didn’t have any idea that it wasn’t.

I knew the Cullens had taken him going to work into account. I knew Carlisle wouldn’t leave me or my Dad completely unprotected. It was the fact that I still hadn’t heard anything from them at all that made me spiral. Bella and Edward’s flight would be landing in Portland in an hour or so. I thought that I would have heard something from them by then and the fact that I hadn’t had me biting my nails until they hurt.

I was nearly at my breaking point, I had my phone in my hand, his number dialed. I tried to will myself not to call; I didn’t want to distract him, but the need to hear his voice and know that he was alright outweighed that logic.

I almost hit the call button when I heard his knock at the door. I got the door open a second later and threw my arms around his neck; he, of course, caught me instantly. One of his hands went into my hair and the other wrapped firmly around my waist. For a moment, we didn’t kiss, we didn’t say a word, we just held each other and breathed each other in.

And then he kissed me and he felt like he always did. His cool lips on mine sent warm waves through my whole body that I didn’t think I could ever get used to. I kissed him and let him kiss me right there on the front porch for the whole town to see.

If I was being honest, I wanted everyone to see us. Because he was alive. Because I was able to kiss him like this. The panic I had felt before had risen to my throat. I felt like I could choke on it, but then he was there, kissing me the way he was, washing it away completely.

He pulled back and I breathed a giggle. I hadn’t realized I was out of air, though thankfully he was always one step ahead of me.

“I was so worried.” I whispered against his lips.

“Everyone is fine.” He answered the question I was too afraid to ask on my own. He leaned back and held my face with both hands. He looked me over again and again, checking for obvious signs of distress; His eyes were locked on mine. “Nothing happened here, right? You and your father are unharmed?”

“We’re completely fine.” I kissed his nose to reassure him. “Did you guys…” I trailed off again, too afraid to form the words- Did they kill her? Of course I wanted her gone, but I really hated the idea of any of them in a fight against her or even killing her.

“She got away.” He sighed and I leaned further back to see his face, to try and read his expression. I hoped he would crack a smile and say he was kidding.

He didn’t.

He continued, “She kept crossing the treaty line, Alice couldn’t keep up once the wolves were involved. Emmett crossed too, to try and get to her but Paul attacked him-”

“Oh no…” I covered my mouth with my hand.

“He’s all right, Cara.” I still hadn’t moved my hand so he pressed a quick kiss to the back of it. “His ego may be bruised, since she used their distraction to get away from us for good, but otherwise unscathed.”

“She could still come back.” I whispered. If she was still out there, this wasn’t over.

He nodded, “But Alice will see when she chooses to. I trust that we will be capable of stopping her. It will be alright, Dove." He pressed his cool hand to my cheek and kissed the tip of my nose before he asked, "How was your weekend?" Clearly trying to change the subject.

I chewed my lip while debating if I was going to let it. "Fine…" I breathed it more than I said it. I wouldn't let it go, but it wasn't pressing right now. "Sam came by Billy’s house… He wanted to see if I'm still human…"

He barked out a laugh. "Because of our trip?" When I nodded, he added "I suppose it would make more sense that we'd leave for a while to do it."

“We weren’t even gone that long… I don't see why it matters anyway.” I understood why the wolves thought it mattered, but what I didn’t understand was why it mattered more than what Bella and I wanted.

He gave me a small kiss on my forehead and I pulled him into the house and towards the living room. We had a few more hours before Dad got home. Bella and Edward’s flight wouldn’t get in until well after eight. We have a few hours to be ourselves. After this weekend I would take every single second with him I could.

“I wish the treaty could be updated, ya know?” I asked him and he chuckled in response. I fell dramatically onto the couch, and he delicately sat beside me. “Could we petition to add a ‘Swan Clause’ to the Cullen/ Quileute Treaty? Like- If a human chooses to be bitten, of sound mind and body, the treaty will not be void.”

He laughed, “If only we had thought ahead- though I highly doubt any of us could have seen you two coming.”

“That’s… Fair.” I got as close to him as the couch would allow without actually just sitting in his lap. “I never really saw you coming either.” I kissed him quickly and we settled into the couch.

We only had a single moment of peace before the shrill sound of the phone ringing came from the kitchen. I bumped my forehead against his shoulder. If I’d gone any harder it probably would have hurt. He looked concerned but I waved it off.

“Are… you going to answer that?”

“I don’t wanna…” I pretended to pout and he laughed before kissing the spot on my head that hit his shoulder.

“I could-”

That response made me sigh more, “You don’t want to either. It’s Jacob again. He’s already called like four times today to talk to Bella. Dad told him earlier that she wouldn’t be in until late but he keeps calling anyway.” I didn’t move towards the phone, it continued to ring.

Carlisle raised an eyebrow.

I choked back a giggle “I haven’t answered him… I like to feed into the drama.” I smirked and he laughed again. I waited for the phone to stop ringing before adding “She’ll call him back when she gets home.”

His smirk matched my own, “That is- If you tell her he called…”

Which, in turn, made me laugh, “Exactly! You get it.”

Carlisle went home well before Dad got off work. Dad could still tolerate him, but they definitely weren’t as close as they once were. It was really only Edward that he ‘hated’. I just tried to not push his buttons more than I had to.

There was a comfortable silence over the house. I made dinner and did the dishes after we ate. As the game played on the TV, I pretended to read while really counting down the minutes until Bella and Edward would be home. I wondered if only hearing her voice over the phone would be enough to convince Jacob that she wasn’t a vampire yet.

Dad answered one call before taking my side ignoring his calls, though it was clear how annoyed he was each time he called. He didn’t ask a single question.

If I had answered I would have said something snarky like “For the love of god Jacob would you get a fucking life?” or “She is never going to pick you over him. Please leave us alone.”

Carlisle was right. It was better that I didn’t answer the phone.

When Bella did get home, I was grateful Dad was calm. He didn’t try to pick a fight with Edward. He even went out of his way to hold the door for him as he carried Bellas stuff in, without moving to slam it in his face.

It was nice. It was progress.

“Welcome home, kid.” His voice was high and loud. I could tell he meant it. “How was Jacksonville?”

“Moist. And buggy” I couldn’t imagine it. I was very comfy in my world of rain and moss. I was not interested at all in adding heat. I wondered if she would ever miss the warmth more than she let on.

“So Renee didn’t sell you on the University of Florida?”

“She tried. But I’d rather drink water than inhale it.”

Dad moved his eyes toward Edward, more out of obligation. “Did you have a nice time?”

“Yes.” He was as polite as ever. “Renee was very hospitable.”

I piped up before the tension suffocated me, “That’s awesome guys!” probably a bit too enthusiastically. Bella walked over to hug me. I didn’t miss the quick ‘ thank you’ she breathed. “We really missed you around here, Bells.”

She dropped her arm and went to take her things upstairs but Dad stopped her before she got too far.

“Would you call Jacob first? He’s been bugging us every five minutes since six o’clock this morning.”

I took over for him, “Dad promised we’d have you call back as soon you got in the door. I debated not telling you at all.” Dad nudged me with his elbow. I rolled my eyes. “It didn’t stop him from calling.”

Bella looked lost, “Jacob wants to talk to me?” I had been a little lost too until I remembered the reason he was calling.

Edward barely moved beside her. I could just barely see the uneven lift of his chest from his forced breath. I was sure he caught the reason for Jacob’s calls in my thoughts and instantly felt guilty.

“-just said it was important.” I only caught the end of Dad’s answer before, as if on demand, the phone started ringing again. I pulled my lips into a tight line and looked at Bella. She desperately tried to decipher what I wouldn’t- couldn’t say in front of Dad.

“That’s him again. I’d bet my next paycheck,” Dad muttered.

“I’ve got it,” she hurried to the kitchen, Edward on her heels. Dad drifted back into the living room.

I stayed in the doorway with no idea which way to go. When the phone stopped mid-ring, I decided to follow Dad and get the details later.

Though part of me hoped Jacob wouldn’t tell her anything at all.

I should have started job hunting. My dad not-so-subtly kept bringing it up. I knew I could get one if I tried, but I hadn’t even started trying. Instead, I was sleeping in, waking up around 10am, taking a quick shower, and going to the hospital to spend Carlisle’s lunch break with him.

At breakfast, when Dad asked me if I’d contacted any jobs yet I smiled and lied, “I’m still looking. I haven’t heard anything back yet.” I don’t think he bought it, but he was willing to let it go.

Still I didn’t look. I was out the door and avoiding my problems before 12pm.

I hadn’t been in his office for more than 15 minutes before Bella texted me. As soon as I read the first message I knew somehow Jacob had told her about what the Cullens were up to this weekend. Carlisle read the message when I handed him my phone and he froze.

NEW MESSAGE FROM DANGER MAGNET-

8:29- What happened? What do you know?

8:32- Y/n… please? I’m losing my mind

8:33- Edward is being elusive. What do you know?

“Why didn’t we have a plan for when she found out?”

“I imagined that Edward would have a solution for this-”

I glared at him, “Really?”

“I know, I know. I also assumed we’d have more than 12 hours before Jacob told her. It’s hard to manage these things since Alice can’t see the wolves.”

I sighed and braced my forehead against my hand. “I didn’t expect her to know I knew immediately either… What do I say to her so she doesn’t hate me?”

“She won’t hate you. I doubt she's even mad at you. She's very likely only mad at Edward."

"Until she learns that I've known about it since we were in Ireland." He did wince a bit at that and I let my head fall to his desk. "What do I say?"

He chuckled and took my phone again. He typed out a message to her and handed it back to me for approval.

I may need more context for what you're referring to. -9:10

"That doesn't sound like me at all." I sent it anyway and he laughed. Then I added,

aren't you in class? -9:11

9:12- I can multitask.

9:12- What happened when I was in Jacksonville with Edward

9:12- between the Cullens and Victoria?

9:12- and Emmett and paul???

What has Edward told you? -9:13

9:14- like I said, he’s being elusive. He keeps saying nothing happened when clearly something happened..

9:15- What do you know?

I took a deep breath before I hit send. Carlisle placed soft, reassuring kisses to my neck.

I really don’t know much. Honestly, Edward would be able to tell you better

than I could. I’m sure it was some huge vamp V.S. wolf cliche. Carlisle has

assured me that everything is fine. -9:17

9:18- Aren’t you with him now?

Carlisle’s at work. -9:19

Lying by omission felt better than outright lying. She had to know I was with him anyway. I knew I didn’t have the answers she wanted and it would have been harder to hear coming from me. I wanted Edward to tell her. She stopped responding to me for a long while.

I immediately thought that she was indeed very mad at me. Carlisle decided to try to distract me by kissing me til I forgot my own name.

It worked amazingly well until my phone dinged again and pulled me right out of it.

10:01- I am holding you personally in charge of telling me about the dangers they try to hide from me from now on…

I understand. -10:04

10:04- Also… Ask Carlisle if Edward can fly a plane.

I turned my head to face him, brows furrowed.

“He can.” My mouth fell open. “I can too.” He casually added. I again let my head fall against his desk, still amazed at all the things they can do.

The week was chaotic to say the least. Bella swore she wasn’t phased by the prospect of Victoria lurking even though she continued to jump at every sound. She would gravitate towards whatever person was closest so she was never by herself.

Mainly she just tried to use it as leverage to be turned sooner.

Thankfully, Carlisle shot that down quickly, “There are six of us Bella. And with Alice and Edward on our side, I don’t think Victoria’s going to catch us off guard. I think it’s important, for Charlie’s sake, that we stick to the original plan.”

He squeezed my hand as he said it like he was trying to calm my nerves. I wasn’t as nervous anymore. I trusted them to keep her safe, while holding off as long as they could on actually turning her. I also knew she wouldn’t give in- that she would demand to be turned sooner, rather than later.

It helped that they were so thorough in making sure that this was truly what she wanted. No matter what reason she came up with, they refused to change her before she graduated.

The most comforting thing of all was how normal everything else was. They continued to plan their mandatory “camping trip”. Carlisle still felt the need to convince me everything was fine. I could hardly tell if he was trying to convince me or himself.

“I’ll only be gone for a few days…”

“I know-”

“We won’t go too far, so if anything happens-”

“Carlisle-”

“-just call or message me and I will come straight home-”

I couldn’t contain my giggles as I set my hands on either side of his face. “My love, Honey, Sweetheart…. I promise, I’ll be okay.”

He sighed and kissed the palm of my hand. “Okay… I know.” The worry melted from his face and he smiled softly at me, “You mean the world to me, Cara. I don’t know what I would do if something happened to you.”

“It’s a good thing I’m not the one you really have to worry about.”

“I do anyway.” He took a step closer to me and gave me a small kiss. “Alice and Jasper will be hunting close by.” I raised my eyebrows. “For Bella’s sake.” He emphasized.

“Okay, that’s fair.” He laughed and actually kissed me that time. I always hated the goodbye kisses. Even though I knew he’d come back, these kisses always felt like poking a scar.

I could still remember how much pain I was in before and when he kissed me like that, I could feel it again. I kissed him like I couldn’t.

He pulled back and rested his forehead on mine. “I love you.”

“I love you.” My voice was just barely above a whisper. “Come home to me.”

“I will… It’s just a few days.” He kissed me again and then he left through the front door. I stayed in the living room watching the front door and hugging my own chest.

I gave myself a few hours to mope around. I cleaned the kitchen and made the bed since they wouldn’t be used again until they got back. I went outside and hesitated on the front porch for a long moment, watching the trees, wishing I could stay right there and wait for his return.

When Bella texted me saying she had made it to Jacob’s house, I sighed. I hoped she would get to spend the day with him, yet still worried the Cullens were just going to come home to get her. I locked the door behind me, got in my car, and drove to Dad’s house.

Dad welcomed me from the kitchen with a generic “Hey, Kiddo!” Probably because he didn’t know which one of us was walking in. Still, he met me in the doorway and gave me a one-armed hug. “How was your day?”

“Nice and quiet. Some of the others left early, so it was just me and Carlisle.”

I didn’t miss his wince. “That sounds nice…” I had to laugh at his response, he quickly changed the subject. “How’s the job hunting going?”

Panicking, I said “Kinda slow… I haven’t heard back from anywhere yet.” Hoping he would accept that and move on again.

It almost worked.

“Have you got in touch with the manager of the cafe? What was her name Dorris? Deana?”

“Debbie…”

“Debbie! Right- Have you called her?”

I winced. “Uhmm… not yet.”

“I can call her up, if you’d like.”

“Oh, no, It’s okay.” I felt my face heat up. The last thing I wanted was for my Dad to call and get my job back. Also, I didn’t even know if I wanted that job back in the first place. “I’m sure they’ve already replaced me anyway-”

“Sure, well… Just let me know-”

He was cut off by a firm knock on the door. While he turned to look, the sound made me jump. Goosebumps covered my body head to toe and I was completely frozen in my spot.

“Are you expecting someone?” I whispered like a child hoping that the person at the door would assume no one was home and just go away.

Dad made for the door, it took everything in me not to grab his arm. “I’m not, but maybe Bella locked herself out.” He didn’t know she was with Jacob. I wanted to beg him to not open the door, but I couldn’t find a reason why he shouldn’t.

I nodded slowly and let him go. “You’re probably right.” I sounded confident. I really had no clue what had me so freaked out. It wasn’t like he’d throw open the door and Victoria would just be standing there, yet my heart stayed in my throat.

Then he swung the door open and it was just Carlisle.

Despite how confused I was, it took everything in me not to run and throw my arms around his neck. Instead, I checked my watch. It had only been four hours since he’d left.

“Dr. Cullen, it’s good to see you.” He didn't sound completely sarcastic. He shifted to the right so I could get out a little more between them. “Is everything alright?”

“Good afternoon, Chief Swan. Everything…” His smile shifted just a bit but he still came off fairly calm. “Well, may I speak with Y/n privately for a moment?”

“Sure,” Dad turned to me and gave me a questioning look. I shrugged my shoulders and stepped out onto the porch. “Just… let me know if you need anything.” He softly shut the door behind me.

Still a little surprised he was there, I started “What’s up?” like I didn’t already know.

“Where is your sister?” Yeah… there it was.

I didn’t want to lie but I felt the loyalty to not rat her out. I had to think on my feet. “She went to work.”

“But she left early… Where did she go?” I could tell he was growing impatient; Not with me necessarily, but with the situation. His eyes were darker than he normally let them get. They needed to hunt and my sister recklessly disregarded their feelings on the matter.

Of course, I wasn’t on their side about it. Bella had every right to see her friends. And their argument that she wasn’t “safe” there was incredibly hypocritical. I agreed that she was a danger magnet, but she was just as safe in a room full of werewolves as she was in a room full of vampires. There were members of both parties that were hardly in control of themselves and no one had hurt her this far.

I crossed my arms and attempted to not roll my eyes by staring directly at the ground. “Kinda feels like you already know where she is…”

He sighed and ran a hand over his face, “Y/n-”

“Don’t- Don’t start this again, please. You know I’m not going to stop her from seeing her friends. She has every right to do so.” His face softened. I could tell he wasn’t there to argue with me and if I had to guess, Edward sent him here anyway. I also softened a bit, “I hate that you guys came home because of this…”

“Edward is practically losing any sense he had left.” He wrapped his arms around me and whispered the next part, “He threatened to break the treaty-”

“He can’t!”

“He won’t.” He assured me. “I agree with you that he is being unreasonable about this. It would be easier if they came to some sort of compromise.”

“They won’t. She’s just going to keep doing this.”

“So is he, I’m afraid.”

When I sighed he softly kissed my forehead. I buried my face in his chest. It felt like I was back in his living room. I didn’t know how much time I had with him. I didn’t want to say goodbye again so soon. I was so thankful that Bella had at least bought us this time.

Like he was reading my mind, I felt him shift back to get a better look at me. I, in turn, looked up at him.

“I don’t want to say goodbye again.” I was so glad he was supporting my weight because his words melted me in his arms.

“I was just thinking the same thing.” He grinned and I leaned forward to kiss him. “But maybe Bella and Edward’s dramatics bought us a few more days.” I matched his grin.

“Hmm… you're probably right.”

He kissed me and this time it didn’t feel like another goodbye. It was slow and sweet and when he kissed me like that the whole world disappeared. I lost track of time. I could have stayed there forever, with one of his hands on my face while the other rested on the small of my back, kissing him like we could defy time itself.

But, like always, he pulled back and chuckled under his breath. I chased his lips with my own for one more short and sweet kiss.

“Your father has peeked out here three times.”

I playfully rolled my eyes, “Nosey old man… I told him I’d go job hunting today.”

“You still could.”

“I know. And I probably will. But after- since you’re home anyway- Could I come over?”

“Of course you can. I want you to,”

“Good!” I stood on the tips of my toe, even if it wasn’t entirely necessary and pressed another quick kiss to his lips. “I’ll see you later then?”

He smiled and kissed my forehead. “Have a good evening, Cara. Good luck with the job hunt, not that you need it.” I wasn’t sure if he meant luck, or the job, but I felt more confident anyway.

We kissed one more time and I watched as he walked to his car. When he got in, he waited for me to go inside the house before pulling away.

His belief in me was just enough to give me confidence, and less than an hour later I was dressed nicely and out the door. Or it could have been the excitement to spend more time with him later.

Without a doubt, I was, for sure, getting a job. I didn’t have a single plan, but I was determined. I stopped at a few places and was met with the same “We’ll get back to you in a few days” that I’d been getting for months.

Part of me wished I had brought Carlisle with me- he was impossible to say no to- but I didn’t want a job just because he got it for me. It wasn’t that I was unhireable exactly, just that word travels fast and less then a year ago I just stopped showing up to my last job.

In a final attempt to come home with some good news, I parked my car in front of the cafe. I couldn’t decide if I wanted to go in. It was unlikely that I would even be able to get my job back. I would have stayed in my car and gone home if I hadn’t promised Dad I would try every option.

Instead, I took a deep breath, tried to steady the shaking, and got out of my car.

Debbie was behind the counter. It really did feel like a weight lifted off my shoulders, even though she was the one who let me go in the first place. I felt like if I had any chance at all, she held it in her delicate hands.

I think she liked me. Once she saw me in the cafe she did light up a bit. She came right around the counter and hugged me.

“Y/n! Honey! It is so good to see you.” She had the only southern accent in Forks that could rival Jaspers. She was born and raised in a small town outside of Nashville, but moved to Forks with her wife Sylvia. They opened Spoons together and the rest is history. “How are you? How’s your Daddy?”

“We’re good. Not much going on really.” I laughed. I really did miss her.

“That’s good. Is there anything I can getcha?”

I took another deep breath and thought- I could do this, I had to do this… “Actually… I was wondering- And if not it’s completely okay, I’d totally understand. But I guess I was wondering if you would rehire me?”

“Oh… Well, Honey. Let’s sit and talk for a sec,” any hope I had vanished from my body. She walked me over to a table to let me down easily.

We both sat down and she smiled sympathetically at me. I tried to get ahead of it, “It’s really okay-”

“It’s just that, I want you to be in the best place mentally that you can be. And you were a great employee, but when he left-” My chest tightened, I tried not to let it show. “-you completely shut down. I want you to fully heal rather than pretend that nothing happened.”

I hit my head on the table. There it was again. The idea that Bella and I were ‘pretending like nothing happened’ circulated better than most of the air conditioners in this town. “I’m not…”

“You and your sister welcomed them back like it was nothin’, but we all saw how torn up y’all were. Now, I completely respect your decision, but I don’t think it’s right to go back to how your life was before. Maybe it would be best if you found something new. Maybe make time for your friends.”

She was trying to be delicate; trying to tell me no, without flat out saying no. I sighed and nodded, “Thank you for the advice…” Unsolicited or not. “I’ve applied to a few places in town.”

The seriousness melted from her features as she said “See? That is so good, Honey! I’ll put in a good word for ya for sure. Can I get you a coffee before you go?”

And just like that she was behind the counter again. I didn’t bother telling her that I hadn't mentioned where I’d applied. I didn’t get the chance to pass on the coffee before she was pouring it. She even threw in an extra one for Carlisle. I almost laughed. She didn’t know the whole story and she was just looking out for my best interest.

I took the coffees and waved as I left. I still thought so highly of her for that.

Carlisle met me at the door when I finally gave up. If no one called, at least Dad couldn’t say I didn’t try.

“How did it go, Love?”

I rolled my eyes and softly laughed, “I’m unemployable…”

He laughed with me. “I can not fathom that that is true. I see you went to the cafe.” He nodded towards the coffees in my hands.

“She tried to keep it delicate, but it’s a solid no.” I held his coffee out to him, “I hope you don’t mind that it’s gone a bit cold.” I joked.

He actually threw his head back laughing.

The guys stayed until Thursday, and then Carlisle, Emmett, Jasper and Edward went hunting in Northern California. The goodbye didn’t hurt as much the second time, though I still hated every second of it.

Alice and I picked up Bella from work in Edward’s Volvo after deciding it would be better to approach this as a united front. We were singing along to the song on the radio when Bella got out. Well- Alice was singing, I was mumbling some of the lyrics I knew.

“Hey, Alice , Y/n?” She had to shout over the music, even still I hardly heard her. “Where are the guys?” I knew she really just wanted to ask about Edward.

I watched as Alice ignored her. She almost looked annoyed, but she never stayed annoyed with Alice for long. She even made a point to cover her ears as she shut the door. I couldn’t help but laugh.

I reached over and turned the music down.

“What’s going on?” I could hear the anxiety in her voice. “Where’s Edward?”

Alice shrugged, “They left early.”

“Oh.” She sounded disappointed, I wondered what was going on inside her head.

“All of the guys left early so we could have a slumber party!” I added, trying to give her some context and quell some of her panic. She was not convinced.

“A slumber party?”

“Are you excited?” Alice crowed.

Her eyes shifted between our faces, clearly still skeptical, and possibly a bit angry.

“You’re kidnapping me, aren’t you?” shit …

Alice laughed and nodded. “Till Saturday.”

Bella’s mouth fell open and her eyes shot to me, hoping I could dig her out of this somehow. I grimaced, “I cleared it with Dad.”

“You’re staying with us two nights and I will drive you to and from school tomorrow.”

She turned her face to the window , her annoyance hadn’t budged at all.

“Sorry.” Alice said, although she didn’t sound even a little bit sorry. “He paid me off.”

“How?” She practically hissed.

Even I hadn’t heard that part, I turned quickly from Bella to Alice as she answered, “The Porsche. It’s exactly like the one I stole in Italy.” I winced at the nonchalance in her tone. She had stolen a car? Sometimes it was still hard to wrap my head around what happened in Italy. I typically tried to not think about it.

Alice continued, “I’m not supposed to drive it around Forks, but if you want, we could see how long it would take to get from here to L.A.- I bet I could have you back by midnight.”

She took a deep breath. “I think I’ll pass.” She trembled a bit. I chuckled softly. I guessed that Bella’s adrenaline seeking did not extend to speed driving.

And in no time at all we were pulling into the Cullens garage. Between Emmett’s Jeep and Rosalie’s BMW sat a gorgeous yellow Porsche. I wanted to roll my eyes but thought better of it and looked around the room instead. When I saw the covered car farest from us, I knew immediately it was Alice’s Prius.

Alice hopped out and went to stoke her hand over the hood. “Pretty, isn’t it?”

“Pretty over-the-top,” Bella grumbled.

Curiosity got the best of me. “What are your plans with the Prius?”

“Oh, well you didn’t drive it while we were gone- or at all since we got back, so Carlisle wasn’t sure you still wanted it…” Her eyes didn’t leave her car so I looked wide-eyed at Bella, who was frozen.

“Alice?” Bella and I said in unison, but where my tone was questioning, hers sounded like a warning. I had no idea what secret I had just uncovered.

“Shoot…” Alice normally had a habit of saying more than she should.

“Why would I want your car, Alice?” I raised my eyebrows.

“It was never my car…” She winced and my mouth fell open. “The day your car died, Carlisle bought that one for you. But you can’t be mad at him and please don’t let him kill me for telling you.”

“I…I’m not mad. I might kill him though.” I still laughed softly. “He barely knew me then!” I really wasn’t mad, just very shocked.

“But it worked out, right? Because now you’re in love.” Bella added, trying to ease the tension.

I wasn’t even tense, but it was a bit fun playing it up. I jokingly glared at her. “How long have you known about this?”

“Since I’ve known they’re vampires, basically.” It was her turn to wince.

“Traitor!” I pointed at her, still laughing.

“Hypocrite.” She shot right back. I loved when she joked like this. It really helped me feel like things were nearly normal. “Clearly the Cullens just buy people cars to get what they want. He gave you that just for two days of holding me hostage?”

Alice made a face, which made me make a face.

Bella gasped. “It’s for every time he’s gone, isn’t it?”

Alice nodded and Bella slammed her door, stomping toward the house. Alice didn’t miss a beat; she just danced right alongside Bella, despite the dramatics. I stayed a healthy distance back.

“Y/n, don’t you think this is just a bit controlling?”

Her question was addressed to me but was obviously aimed at Alice. Probably with the hope that Edward was still close enough to overhear as well. He wasn’t. They’d left hours before.

“ A bit? Bella, you know I’m on your side about this-”

“Not really.” Alice answered as if I wasn’t. “Neither of you seem to grasp how dangerous a young werewolf can be. Especially when I can’t see them. Edward has no way to know if you’re safe. You shouldn’t be so reckless.”

Bella met my gaze with a glare that matched my dramatic eye roll; Only, Bella was brave enough to voice her thoughts.

Her voice was like acid. “Yes, because a vampire slumber party is the pinnacle of safety conscious behavior.”

I really laughed at that, but so did Alice. “I’ll give you a pedicure and everything.”

It really wasn’t as bad as Bella made it out to be. Alice painted her nails, I made junk food, and Alice put on a few of Bella’s favorite movies. Even Rosalie hung out in the main living space, just quietly and predominantly in the background.

“How late do you want to stay up?” Alice asked Bella as she finished her toenails.

“I don’t want to stay up. We have school in the morning.” Bella continued to be grumpy despite how cheery Alice was, though this did make her pout a little.

I laughed, “You could ditch. We could go shopping.”

“Being a little irresponsible is healthy.” Alice agreed.

Bella ignored us. “Where am I supposed to sleep, anyway? Can’t you just keep me under surveillance at my house?”

That would never work and she knew it.

“What kind of slumber party would that be?” Alice shook her head in exasperation. “You’re sleeping in Edward's room.”

She seemed content enough with that. I understood her hesitation. She didn’t know he bought her a bed for his room and the idea of sleeping in there without him probably felt very lonely.

But she pretended it was fine and switched topics.

“Can I go back to my place to get my things, at least?”

Her persistence was hilarious. I smiled at her, “You know we already took care of that.”

“Fine. Can I use either of your phones?” She looked between us and I moved to hand her mine but paused when I felt Alice’s icy hand holding me back.

“Charlie knows where you are.”

“I wasn’t going to call Charlie.” Bella wasn’t really glaring at her; she knew this wasn’t entirely her choice either. “Apparently I have some plans to cancel.”

“Oh.” I moved again to give Bella my phone as Alice weighed her options but she didn’t budge. “I’m not sure about that”

“Alice!” she whined loudly. “C’mon!”

“Okay, okay. But use mine!” She called as she floated out of the room. I had to roll my eyes, it made Bella laugh a bit. When she was back she held out her phone to Bella. “He didn’t specifically prohibit this…”

Bella stepped away and I tried not to listen too closely to her conversion with Jacob. It wasn’t my place to eavesdrop. I figured whatever he had to say would probably piss me off anyway. He wasn’t known for being reasonable. Hell none of them were. It was something I’d grown to accept.

Alice sat between Rosalie and I and placed her head on my shoulder. We fell into a comfortable silence. The only sounds came from Bella’s muffled phone call and the movie. Of course my mind kept drifting back to Carlisle. They wouldn’t be back until at least Saturday, and though I already missed him, I wondered if Bella would try to sneak out again.

I hoped she would as much as I hoped she wouldn’t. I also knew that if she tried I wouldn’t stop her.

Alice was gone and next to Bella again, but Bella was already dialing another number.

“I don’t think he’ll have his phone on him.” I assumed they were talking about Edward. Though I doubted he wouldn’t have his phone given Bella’s perpetual need to cause chaos for them.

“If he doesn’t I can try Carlisle…”

“It’s fine, I’m not trying to worry him too much. I’ll leave a message.” I nodded and giggled around my glass of wine. Alice glared at me.

“You are in trouble.” She was so angry. I really wished I could hear what she would say to him when he got back. Clearly still annoyed, she ended the call after a few more threats. She snapped the phone shut and gave it back to Alice. “I’m done.”

Alice grinned. “This hostage stuff is fun.”

“I’m going to sleep now,” she announced Alice followed behind her.

I laughed and shook my head before taking another sip of wine. Rosalie laughed too but hers was more sarcastic. “Must they do this the hard way?” She asked as she stood, her gaze followed Bella upstairs.

“They thrive on it.” I responded. I knew how she felt. I wished I could make it easier for her somehow.

“If Bella would just see the whole picture. If I could give her some perspective somehow…” Her voice trailed off, like she was distracted by coming up with a way to make Bella want to stay human.

“You should talk to her. I don’t think she knows your story. I think your opinion matters more to her than she lets on.” I set my hand on her arm and she met my gaze. “It matters to me too, Rose.”

Her face softened and she nodded. “Thank you, Y/n. You’re right.” She got up and started up the stairs but paused for a brief moment, “Sleep well… when you go.” then she was gone

Taglist!

@jakanddexter67 @a-not-so-poetic-poet @bridge597 @cestlavie03 @gaymazinglula @short-potato @jennyamanda8 @daisydreamingsims @arg888cam

#twilight #carlisle cullen #twilight fanfiction #carlisle cullen x reader #im always in this twilight #twilight x reader #iaitt #this love came back to me #tlcbtm #reader insert

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lyraofthestarsss · 1 month ago

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Do you guys want to see my “Storm from EPIC: The Musical” analysis I did for my music appreciation class?

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EPIC: The Musical is a concept album created by Jorge “Jay” Rivera-Herrans based on Homer’s The Odyssey. It is an ongoing project split into two acts with nine arcs, referred to as “Sagas”. The song I have chosen for this project is “Storm”, which is the opening song to the third arc, known as the Ocean Saga. Since the project does not have an official stage production, fan artists and animators are key in visualizing the events of the story.

One of my favorite parts of this musical is its use of instrumentals to represent different characters. In the song, the main character Odysseus is leading his fleet of soldiers through an aggressive storm. During the verses when he is giving out orders, an electric guitar plays the main melody. Odysseus is represented by two different types of guitar: an acoustic guitar for more gentle and vulnerable moments, and an electric guitar for more commanding leadership moments. Drums are also very common throughout the piece, being the supporting instrument for the main melody as well as setting up the upbeat tempo. The kick-drum plays the “pulse” of the piece, the constant heartbeat that is buried underneath layers of other instruments and harmonies. The hi-hats are used as a representation of the waves crashing against the side of the ships. It’s loud, it’s aggressive, and it increases the intensity of the overall dynamic. One of the most important instruments in this song is the trumpet. The trumpet is a symbol of Poseidon, Greek god of the sea and storms. Despite not physically appearing until the ending song of the Ocean Saga, the trumpets are used to represent the looming danger Odysseus and his crew are in. The storm itself is a manifestation of the karma Odysseus gave himself when he blinded the Cyclops and revealed his name to him.

The dynamic of “Storm” is incredibly loud throughout the piece. The combination of trumpets, electric guitar, drums, loud vocals, and a fast tempo drive up the intensity of the overall scene. You as the listener feel as if you are inside a hurricane, especially with the repeating rhythmic pattern in the chorus. As Odysseus and his men sing the word “storm”, they raise and lower their voices to mimic the rise and fall of a ship on unstable waters. At 1:45, the instrumentals and overall dynamic change dramatically. When the crew members point out the island in the sky, the instrumentals quiet almost completely besides the kick drum playing the pulse/heartbeat and a flute playing the main melody. This represents the eye of the storm, both physically and metaphorically, as Odysseus gets the idea to ask the god of the winds, Aeolus, for help on their travels home. As mentioned before, all of the main characters have an associating instrument. The flute, a very light and high pitched woodwind instrument, is a perfect match for Aeolus. The song reaches its grand finale at 2:05, when the “storm” rhythmic pattern repeats once again and the other instruments return in full force. To me, this represents them returning to the other side of the hurricane.

#storm I love u #you are so special to me #I submitted mine last minute so I didn’t get to see my classmates’ reactions and feedbacks to it so I’d LOVE to see what you guys think #my post #long post but good post #epic the musical #epic the storm saga #epic analysis #epic musical #epicblr #music analysis

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wilygryphon · 22 days ago

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One problem with the MCU's Multiverse Saga is that it doesn't seem like the writers know what stakes to work with in a multiverse story. There have been 4-5 (maybe 6; I didn't see What If? Season 2) multiverse destruction conflicts so far. (Not sure if we count Loki Season 1, where the status quo has been "every universe except the prime one is regularly destroyed"; Ant-Man and the Wasp Quantumania, with that Kang wanting to destroy any universe that stands against him; What If? Season 1, with Infinite Ultron wanting to end all life in every universe; Loki Season 2, the exploding loom threatening the destruction of every timeline; and Deadpool and Wolverine, with the final conflict being Cassandra Nova wanting to wipe out every universe.) Even DC Comics would be like "Whoa, cool your jets, man!" Marvel keeps throwing the highest-stakes conflict at us. What were they even planning to do for the culmination of the arc?

#marvel cinematic universe #mcu #d&w spoilers #deadpool and wolverine spoilers #multiverse saga #loki series #what if marvel #ant man and the wasp #deadpool and wolverine #d&w

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hondafuckingodyssey · 2 months ago

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X-men comic recommendations

The other day I went on a rant about how nobody should attempt to read all of the x-men comics in order because if the x-men have no respect for the spacetime continuum, you shouldn't have to respect reading their shit in order.

So here's a list of comics series, some that I've read and some that are on my to read list. Mind the authors and the dates, Marvel likes to recycle titles so sometimes you'll accidentally pick up something that's a completely different story from ten years later.

If you're going to getting your comics from the library and different sources (cough archive.org cough), or skipping around to different eras, I recommend an app like Comic Geeks where you can track which issues you've read. As a bonus, you get a satisfying little dopamine hit every time you check off a comic you read.

The original silver age comics from 1963 Stan Lee and Jack Kirby These are fun, but they kind of suck. I believe X-men was one of their worst selling titles for many years. They are campy fun though, like that island has a giant acme magnet on on top of it, I wonder if that's Magneto's secret base, hmmm? I'm kind of working through these when I just have my phone because they're easier to read on a smaller screen than the new stuff with full page spreads.

Chris Claremont's classic X-men run, starting in 1975. This is the classic starting point I hear recommended again and again. You start with Giant Size x-men number 1, and then go to X-men issue 94. This is where all the classic x-men are introduced. You got your Dark Phoenix saga, and Days of Future Past, and a lot of the storylines that were used in the 90's animated series. Everybody should read some of these. But Chris Claremont was writing the X-men for FOURTEEN years. Do not attempt to read all of these before you move onto the modern stuff.

The Dark Phoenix saga, 1980 Chris Claremont, issues 129-138 Ok, I just finished these last night and they're so good that I want to make a special call out for them. I jumped ahead to read them and I'm so glad I didn't wait. I can't figure out how the movies sucked so bad when they had this source material to work with. We could have had an epic moon battle? If you don't read anything else from this era read these. Pro tip: get the epic version of like a prayer stuck in your head right before starting on issue 137. Really adds to the atmosphere.

X-men Season 1 by Dennis Hopeless, 2012 This is a graphic novel (so published altogether instead of in individual issues) retelling of the original silver age comics. It's mostly from Jean Grey's point of view. It's very fun.

Children of the Atom, 1999 by Joe Casey, 6 issues Sort of a prequel, explains how Charles Xavier recruited a bunch of teenagers. This looks good, but it started out with mutants being lynched, and with the way I always compare being a mutant to being queer, and the election and project 2025 looming, I decided this one was too much for me right now.

X-men First Class, 2006 by Jeff Parker, 8 issues I read the first four of these and they were cute. Bobby is writing home to his parents about his time in school, Scott and Jean go to the beach. Lots of fun character stuff. Originally 8 issues but it looks like they immediately did another run of issues the next year.

New X-men, 2001 by Grant Morrison his run starts with issue 114 This is a great place to jump in if Deadpool & Wolverine got you interested in x-men comics, because it's got Cassandra Nova in it. She's doing her weird finger thing! Supposedly this is one of best places to jump into modern x-men. I've read about 6 of them, so far so good.

Astonishing X-men, 2004 by Joss Whedon This is supposed to be the best x-men run ever. It continues directly from Grant Morrison's run. I'm saving it for next time I have a mental breakdown a rainy day.

All-New X-men, 2013 by Brian Michael Bendis This is what I'm reading the most of right now. Cyclops is being an asshole, and Beast decides the best way to solve this problem is to go back in time and bring the original teenage x-men from '60s back with him to confront him. This works particularly well as a jumping in point because they keep explaining backstory through the kids finding out all the ridiculous things that have happened. Like, poor Jean asking how she died, and they're is like, um which time?

#x-men #x-men comics #comic recommendations

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lxndonorris · 9 months ago

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racing surprise for Lando - Lando Norris (SFS24)

fem!reader x Lando Norris Theme: Smut (you've been warned) in the midst of pre-season testing, Mclaren invited you to surprise Lando x word count: 2710+ taglist: @game-set-canet another edition to the suit fitting saga 2024 (SFS24). Quite similar but I hope you like the added twist. Oh and I needed that picture so dont blame me. Next one will hopefully be este, and if you have any request, for SFS24, testing or simply something else, dont be shy and hit me up!

The air crackles with anticipation as the new season of Formula 1 looms on the horizon, heralding a fresh chapter in Lando Norris's illustrious career as a professional racing driver. With the promise of new gear, a state-of-the-art racing suit, a meticulously crafted helmet, and a gleaming Mclaren race car awaiting him, excitement pulses through his veins like the roar of an engine.

Amidst the flurry of activity in the Mclaren garage, you stand, a silent observer disguised as one of the team members. Dressed in the team's iconic orange shirt, dark pants, a cap, and sporting a headset, you blend seamlessly into the backdrop, your heart aflutter with anticipation as you await Lando's arrival.

He initially invited you himself to join him here, but you had to decline. Unbeknownst to him, his team has already reached out to you, preparing a surprise for your boyfriend.

And then, like a whirlwind of energy and charisma, he enters the scene. Clad in his new racing suit, adorned with sponsor logos, he cuts a stroking figure. The fabric hugs his form in all the right places, accentuating his athletic build with precision and care. His curly locks framed his face, adding a touch of boyish charm to his rugged allure.

As Lando moves through the garage, his presence commands attention. There is confidence in his stride, a swagger in his step that speaks volumes about his self-assurance. He greets everyone with a warm smile and a handshake; his enthusiasm infectious. There is a genuine camaraderie between them, a sense of unity forged by their shared passion for racing.

With the assistance of two friendly mechanics who shield you from view, you watch as Lando prepares for his testing session. The air is thick with excitement and tension, a tangible buzz of anticipation that electrifies the atmosphere. The scent of his cologne lingers in the air, a subtle reminder of his proximity that sends shivers down your spine.

Each step Lando takes seems to echo purpose, his eyes alight with a belnd of determination and curiosity.

You watch from your vantage point, hidden in plain sight among the team members. As a conversation turns to the upcoming training session, Lando's demeanor shifts slightly. A curious, shy smile played on his lips as he listens closely. With a hand on his hip, he leans in slightly, his posture relaxed yet attentive.

There is a quiet determination in his gaze, a hunger to extract every ounce of potential from the testing session. He understands the importance of these moments, recognizing them as opportunities to fine-tune his skills and familiarize himself with the nuances of the new car.

You can't help but admire the way the fabric hugs his body tightly, emphasizing the curves of his backside and the strength of his arms. His movements are fluid and purposeful, each gesture imbued with quiet confidence.

With each glance, your eyes trace the lines of his suit, lingering on the subtle details that hint at the layers beneath. You know that beneath the sleek exterior lies a network of tight undergarments—fireproofs designed to protect him.

This knowledge adds an extra layer of allure to his already magnetic presence, heightening the intensity of your admiration.

As the conversation draws to a close, Lando offers a grateful nod to his mechanics. With a sense of purpose, he turns his attention toward the track, eager to put their plans into action and unleash the full extent of his talents.

With practiced ease, Lando slips into the remaining racing gear—his gloves and a tight balaclava—each movement deliberate and precise. The helmet, adorned with beautiful colors and logos, completes his ensemble, its glossy surface reflecting the glow of excitement in his eyes.

With a playful twirl, he settles into the driver's seat, his grin widening as he prepares to start testing. With a loud roar, the engine comes to life, and slowly but steadily, he makes his way out of the garage. Your stomach tightens in a mixture of anticipation and pride.

Through the crackle of the radio, his voice rings out, a symphony of exhilaration as he tackles each corner with precision and finesse. You listen intently, your heart swelling with joy as he pushes the limits of his Mclaren. You know he is so happy to be back, and you can actually see him smiling when you close your eyes. His voice is a little rougher, yet it carries his joy and passion through the radio.

Once his session is over, he returns to the garage. As Lando emerges from the cockpit of his Mclaren, he lets out a jubilant cheer with a triumphant flex of his arms. Shaking your head, you can't believe him actually doing that. Licking your lips, you still can't tear your eyes away from his arse, filling his suit fully.

The testing had been a success, and he surpassed all expectations. Running a hand across his chest, he can't help but revel in the rush of adrenaline that still courses through his veins. The fabric of his racing suit clings to him, damp with sweat from the intensity of the session—a sensational sight that you missed during the winter break.

In one swift movement, he reaches up to remove his helmet and balaclava, revealing a mop of tousled curls and a flushed complexion beneath. His lips part slightly with a satsified smirk, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes as he licks his lips, sending shivers down your spine. He looks so happy and excited, and you smile seeing him like that.

As he moves through the garage, shaking hands with his team members, he can't contain his joy. His tongue darts out playfully, a gesture of exuberance that shows his satisfaction with the achievements so far.

Lando chats with a few mechanics for a while, and you can tell the residual excitement from the testing session continues to surge through his veins, pulsating with every beat of his heart. He keeps stroking his chest, touching his arms, and subconsciously, he touches himself through his suit—just barely, yet it catches your attention.

It is as if the adrenaline of the track has infused his very being, filling him with an exhilarating energy that seems to amplify with each passing moment.

Entranced by his every move, the sound of his voice, and his cologne's scent still hovering all around you, you miss the opportunity to reveal yourself—Lando has already left for his private quarters.

Leaving your headset and cap behind, you rush after him and spot him strolling through the paddock. Unable to tear your eyes away from him, captivated by the effortless grace with which he moved, you follow him. Every step seems to exude confidence, joy, and self-confidence.

As he runs a hand through his messy curls, you can't help but notice the way his hair fell in disarray, framing his face in a way that is both endearing and alluring. There is a rawness to his appearance—a sense of vulnerability—that makes your heart flutter in your chest.

And then, as if sensing your gaze, he runs a hand across his chest, a subtle gesture that speaks volumes about the excitement still running through his body. You can almost feel the electric energy radiating off him, a tangible reminder of the thrill of driving an F1 car.

In this moment, you are struck by the sheer magnetism of his presence, even though you're just looking at his beautiful back. And as he disappears into his quarters, leaving you to ponder the whirlwind of emitions he had stirred within you, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration.

As you knock on his door, a nervous anticipation grips you, your heart pounding with uncertainty—how is he going to react?

"Coming." Lando's voice echoes through the door before it swings open, revealing your boyfriend standing right in front of you. With an almost shocked expression, your breath catches in your throat.

"Y/N?" He asks, and in an instant, his entire face lit up with a radiant smile that reaches his eyes, filling you with warmth and joy.

"Hi." You smile shyly, your face flushing with heat.

Without hesitation, he pulls you into a tight embrace, his arms enveloping you closely. You melt into him, running your hands across his firm back.

"What are you doing here?" Lando smiles, separating himself just enough for his face to be mere inches away from yours. He places a hand on your cheek, tracing your skin with his fingertips.

"Surprising you." You motion for a few Mclaren team members to film the two of you from afar.

Both of you turn your heads and wave toward the camera.

"They offered to get me here; we just needed a few clips for their channel." You shrug, and he nods in agreement and curiousity.

"This is great," he leans into you, kissing you gently. You lock eyes with him for what feels like an eternity.

The film crew gives you a thumbs up, telling you that it's now time for some alone time.

As Lando welcomes you into his private quarters, a rush of excitement surges through you, mingling with the lingering traces of adrenaline from his testing session. Your gaze is drawn irresistibly to the contours of his chest, the fabric of his racing suit accentuating every curve and sinew.

He meets your gaze with a knowing smile, a spark of amusement dancing in his eyes as he senses the admiration and desire in your gaze. There is confidence in his demeanor, a quiet assurance that speaks of his comfort in his own skin.

"So, how was I?" With a playful grin, he steps closer, closing the distance between you until the warmth of his presence envelops you.

"Amazing." You lift your chin slightly, meeting his confidence with your own. "And you look the part too." Smirking, you lick your lips.

Without a word, he takes your hand and guides it to the fabric of his suit, allowing you to feel the sleek material beneath your fingertips.

"I know how much you like this on me," Lando breathes, locking his eyes with your own. However, you're unable to withstand his burning gaze and lower your eyes, following the movements of your hands instead.

As your hand traces the lines of his chest and arms, you can't help but marvel at the strength and resilience that lie beneath the surface. The fabric is cool to the touch, yet it seems to hum with the energy of the track, a tangible reminder of the passion and dedication that fuel his every movement.

"This feels so good." You breathe deeply while you keep stroking his chest, feeling his biceps, and watch his chest move with every breath he takes, eliciting a low rumble of pleasure deep down his throat.

"Fuck," Lando can't hold back a low moan, his hand now following yours closely, his body yearning for so much more. He leans his head back, embracing both of your hands now on his chest.

You know how much he loves to be teased, touched, and stroked. Effortlessly, you push all of his buttons and his most sensitive spots—his nipples, pecs, arms, and most importantly, his member filling his suit.

"Good." You whisper, leaning in to him, tracing the outlines of his stubble just above his lips. A shiver races down your spine, the rough texture of his beard contrasting with the softness of your touch. There is something undeniably alluring about the way his beard frames his lips, adding a touch of raw sensuality to his appearance.

With each passing moment, the desire to feel the roughness of his stubble against your skin grows stronger—a primal urge that threatens to consume you completely. You lean in, brushing your lips against his in a tender caress. The sensation of his beard against your skin sends waves of pleasure coursing through your body.

With your hand on his crotch, he moans softly against your lips. Lost in the heat of the moment, you surrender yourself to the heady rush of emotions. Your lips meet in a fervent kiss, craving his delicious taste.

"Y/N." Lando murmurs, his hands now steady on your waist, holding you close.

"Care to give me a show?" You bite his lower lip teasingly, causing him to chuckle. "I want to see all of you in that." Tugging at the zipper of his racing suit, you stroke him firmer, encouraging him to show off.

"Of course." He giggles, and you settle onto the sofa, anticipation tingling in the air, thick with the electricity of the moment. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, Lando takes center stage, spreading your legs to make some space. His movements are fluid and confident as he begins his private show.

With each flex of his muscles, his form seems to come alive, the contours of his body highlighted by the sleek fabric of his racing suit. He lets you feel his muscles tense, letting out more guttural growls.

"Very good." You smile, and with a playful smirk dancing on his lips, he turns around, giving you a tantalizing glimpse of his firm back and arse. He bends to show off his butt even more, much to your amusement.

And then, with a sudden burst of energy, he begins to dance, his movements a mesmerizing combination of grace and athleticism. His hips sway to an invisible rhythm, and his body moves with a natural ease that shows off his innate charisma and confidence.

As he twirls and turns, the fabric of his suit seems to come alive as well, clinging to his form as he moves with effortless grace. With a slow and deliberate motion, he reaches for the zipper, his fingers tracing the line with teasing slowness.

As Lando slowly unzips his suit, his eyes never leave yours; their intensity like a flame igniting the air between you. His gaze is electric, a silnt invitation that sends shivers down your entire back. Hidden beneath his beautiful eyes lies hunger—a raw desire that mirrors the heat pulsating through your veins.

With each inch of fabric that melts away, inch by inch, he reveals the tight garments—a glimpse of the tight fireproofs. Easily, he slips out of the upper half of his suit, giving you a good look at his chest. His defined muscles barely conceiled, he flexes again, straining the fabric even more.

Lando closes the distance between you until you feel the warmth of his body radiating against your skin. His gaze is never wavering, pulling you so much closer.

"Fuck." You reach for his chest, tracing the tangible outlines of his abs, as he licks his lips. With the sleeves of his suit dangling down his waist, he stands before you, his form outlined against the soft glow of the room, a vision of strength and sensuality that takes your breath away.

In that moment, as you drink in the sight of him, you know you want him.

You motion for him to sit down right next to you, and right away, you lean in, kissing him passionately.

Lando embraces your body against his, and at the same time, your hand slips underneath his suit. His skin is warm and tight; all of the tension is showing its effect on his body.

"Mhmmm." He purrs into your mouth, one of his hands firmly on his length, bulging against his clothes.

In one swift motion, you manage to get into his pants and pull his member out of his clothes, causing him to moan in agreement.

"That would be so good, Y/N." Fully aware of what you're about to do, you keep kissing him while simultaneously running your hand up and down his length.

With every breath he takes, Lando lets out guttural groans before leaning his head back against the sofa cushions.

Looking into his eyes, you bend down and take him into your mouth.

"That's what I meant." He swallows hard, running a hand through your hair.

Together, you easily catch up to each other's rhythm, moving as one. His husky, rough voice echoes through your mind as more and more drops of his taste cover your tongue.

Then, his body gets stiff and rigid, and he holds his breath before letting go of all this tension, pressure, and desire. It feels so good. Letting out a long, breathless moan, he relaxes quickly, leaning back even more. You let go of him, licking your lips to savor the taste.

Lando fondles with himself for a while while you catch your breath.

"This was so good." You sigh deeply before a chuckle leaves your wet lips. He smirks, leans in, and kisses you.

"Thank you for being here." Lando rubs his nose against yours gently.

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luci-in-trenchcoats · 8 months ago

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Hey, Michelle! I'm a night owl, which is why I'm still up at 1 a.m. 🦉

I have a question for you, and it may be a tough one considering how many awesome stories you've written, but...

Which story are you most proud of? If it's easier, one series, one one-shot. 😆💕

I'm a night owl too! Which is why it's so unfortunate I have to start my workday at 7am 😂

Stories I'm most proud of, hm? Well that is definitely not the easiest question, especially considering the volume of them! So I'm going to cheat juuuuust a little bit and keep the list to under 10 (you may want coffee, wine and/or snacks cause this turned into a novel):

The Daughter!Reader Fic With More Timestamps Than Parts (😂)

Probably the one series I'm most proud of because of the impact it's had on my readers is A Place to Call Home (or APTCH as it's been affectionately dubbed around here). And it's a funny little story to me to have that special designation because it really shouldn't be so popular. It's a Jensen x foster daughter!reader story which is so niche in the first place. I don't really read daughter!reader stories myself so I really have no idea why I wanted to write this one. I held onto it for almost a year after it was written because I thought I'd get such a negative reaction to it for being weird, disrespectful, you name it. Yet, it's turned into this never-ending saga that I get told over and over is one thing: comforting. It's such a simple story, a girl who needs a family but has been so hurt she's given up on the idea of one and a man who will do whatever it takes to show her she's worthy of love. And it's that story over time from a scared 17 year old high school kid to a young woman falling in love, figuring out her own career, navigating her own family, her own adulthood and how overtime that relationship with Jensen grows and changes as it does for all of us with parents as we grow up. Having people who were actually in foster care/were adopted/are foster/adoptive parents themselves reach out and say it captures a lot of those real life feelings and desires is still probably the best compliment I've ever gotten. For every situation there is, good or bad, I've been told it's a pick me up by so many and for that I will always be proud of this one.

The Canon-esque, "Hey this is like a post-show movie"

Staying in canon is fun. Staying in canon at a point beyond the show? That's even more fun for me. Beautiful Loser was really my first crack at, "hey what could a post series finale pickup look like?" Bring in some kids, bring in good ole fashioned hunter paranoia, bring in a creepy little kid...this one felt like writing an episode of SPN and I'm SOOO happy with how it turned out! The lore, the ups and downs, damn it still gets me.

The Arranged Marriage Political Thriller

I mean, Unconventional originally was supposed to be a fun little ABO quirky arranged marriage story and then...then it became "this idea of being lesser is the shit women have to deal with even in the real world". I didn't intend to write that story but it ended up going there and I'm incredibly proud of the message it puts out there that change is hard, change requires sacrifice sometimes, but not everyone is bad and if you fight for it, sometimes you can make a real difference.

The Fast Paced Detective Story

39 Hours was the first story I ever wrote based on the aesthetic and one of the first cop!Dean stories I did. I wrote it like a good thriller mystery. The clock is ticking down faster and faster. The protector is a grump with maybe a soft side? The victim isn't weak and some threat is looming in the air. This was such a departure for me to write a long condensed story like this too but it broke open that avenue for me and I still consider this one of my favorite stories I've done.

The Body Issues One

It's such a trope of women having body issues but what about if the guy had them too? Because we know they do they do, they just talk about it so much. And we all always call Jensen that male model SOB so a model Dean was faaar too tempting. Now give the reader some physical scars from an accident Dean's own dad caused, a father who's disowned Dean for his career choice...we've got two people who very much seem themselves as broken yet can't see it in one another. This was a heavy topic on a lot of fronts to work in Broken Like Me but I'm really happy with the messaging that comes through.

The Jensen Shower Pics Inspired One

Thank god for Jensen Ackles cause this one wouldn't have existed without those shirtless late night pics. ABO has always been an interesting world I like to push the boundaries of but this was my first real attempt at going big, adding my own rules and boundaries. Coming up with the new science, adding the mystery elements, adding that growing sexual tension...yeah Feral is my favorite ABO story I've ever done hands down.

The Best RPF I'll Ever Write

RPF isn't for everyone but if you only ever read one by me, it's got to be If I Fell For You by a landslide. A Jensen x nanny!reader fic can be, let's just say, really easy to screw up. They can go down routes I don't like to go. But this story deals with so many themes that are worthwhile. Grief. Loss. Learning to love again. Parental love and when it's lacking. Forgiveness and pain. It hurts so good is the best way to put this one. And the safety net analogy I came up with in Part 4 is something I'm particularly proud of.

Making You Forgive The Asshole

I know you in particular will understand this Zep but writing a redemption story for Soldier Boy is fucking hard. It's really easy to watch the show and go he's awful but he's so cute, he can do whatever he wants. Throw in an actual reader and suddenly him being walking sin ain't gonna cut it. Writing character growth realistically can be hard. It can be ever harder when we got like a grand total of 15 mins of screen time with that character. I was nervous as hell to write Thunder In Our Hearts quite honestly. So when I got the reaction that I didn't screw it up felt so, so good. Now I can't wait to do it again with The Villain's Protector! 😉

I'm quite proud of myself for narrowing this down to 8 fics lol. There are many more I could list but these are the big hitters! And thank you for the trip down memory lane! 🥰

#fic rec #spn #supernatural #the boys

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its-all-or-nothing94 · 1 year ago

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Formual 1 / MotoGP Fusion - Part 2

Summary: You are the first female MotoGP rider ever. You race for KTM Factory Racing, leaving Jack Miller your teammate, and one of your main sponsors is Red Bull. You grew up with most of the riders but your best friend is the multiple MotoGP Champion Marc Marquez. After your horrific crash the year before, you are ready to start the new season and probably a new love?

Pre-Story - Part 1

A/N: This part is a little shorter, because I don't want to spoil anything :) New part coming in the next 36 hours. Wanna be tagged? Just let me know :D

Ship: Not telling yet (Marc Marquez, Carlos Sainz or Charles Leclerc)

Warnings: none

Taglist: @laneyspaulding19

charles_leclerc started following you.

yourusername22 ☑️

Barcelona, Spain

Liked by carlossainz55, charles_leclerc and 1’248’763 others

yourusername22 Beachtime ☀️ @marcmarquez93 @alexmarquez73 & @carlossainz55

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MotoGPlover I love them your majesty! 😍😍

alexmarquez73 Pretty goof 😍

yourusername22 😁😁

marcmarquez93 She’s still a goof! 😚

yourusername22 Bite me sucker!

alessia_vergara Can I please have a friendship like that??

userbot Beautiful as always 😍

14.03.2023

carlossainz55 😍

yourusername22 🤪

charles_leclerc 👀

🏁 MotoGP Royalty Unite in Barcelona: 🔥 Marc Marquez and Y/N Y/L/N's Electrifying Beach Day with F1 Star Carlos Sainz Sparks Social Media Frenzy!

👑 The Spanish speedster, his longtime confidante, and a renowned Formula 1 ace take Barcelona by storm, leaving fans desperate for answers! 😱

In a heart-stopping display of camaraderie, Spanish MotoGP maestro Marc Marquez and his trusted companion, Y/C sensation Y/N Y/L/N, left fans reeling with excitement during their much-anticipated meetup in Barcelona. The pair, who have shared an unbreakable bond for years, caused a stir on social media when they joined forces with 🇪🇸 Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz for an unforgettable day at the beach. 🌊

The scintillating saga began when Y/N Y/L/N, took to Instagram to showcase her extraordinary journey from Valencia to Barcelona, astride her beloved bike, alongside none other than Marc's younger brother, Alex Marquez. 🏍️ Their adrenaline-pumping adventure instantly captivated the attention of fans across the globe, eager for a glimpse into the lives of these two MotoGP superstars. 🌍

As anticipation reached fever pitch, Marquez, 30, and Y/L/N tantalized their followers by rendezvousing with Carlos Sainz, 28, at his luxurious Barcelona residence. 🏰 The trio's longstanding friendship was on full display as they embarked on a sun-soaked adventure that would leave social media buzzing for days to come. ☀️

Instagram stories shared by Marquez, Y/L/N, and Sainz provided an exclusive peek into their beach extravaganza. 📸 The captivating footage captured the trio laughing, frolicking in the waves, and engaging in animated conversations, effortlessly radiating their shared passion for speed and thrill. The chemistry between Marquez and Y/L/N was palpable, igniting speculation about the nature of their unbreakable bond. 💑

While the trio has yet to address the rumors swirling around their beach rendezvous, fans worldwide have taken to social media to dissect every frame, dissecting their interactions and romantic possibilities. The tantalizing photos and videos shared on Instagram have ignited the imaginations of onlookers, with many yearning for confirmation of a budding romance between Marquez and Y/L/N. ❤️💬

As the MotoGP season looms ever closer, fans can hardly contain their excitement, both for the nail-biting races ahead and for the unfolding drama surrounding Marquez, Y/L/N, and their enigmatic relationship. 🏍️🔥 Will they embrace their undeniable chemistry and finally confirm their love? Or will they continue to keep the world guessing with their cryptic messages and thrilling adventures? 🤔🌟

One thing is certain—this trio of speed enthusiasts has sent shockwaves through the sporting world, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in their captivating tale. Hold on tight, for the ride has just begun! 🎢

<< Previous Part - Next Part >>

#MotoGP x Formula 1 #MotoGP #Formula 1 #Formula 1 x oc #Formula 1 x reader #MotoGP x reader #MotoGP x OC #Marc Marquez x Reader #Carlos Sainz x Reader #Charles Leclerc x Reader

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galaxythreads · 1 year ago

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I do feel very irritated with the ending of season 2 to be honest. like understand, just because it wasn't bad doesn't mean it's my beloved. I liked a lot of it, but there are parts that just rubbed me the wrong way, like:

Feeling the "Where is John Watson in Sherlock's Mind Palace thing". Where it's like, why didn't Loki talk to Thor, or Frigga, or anyone about the timeline problem?

Loki being alone on a throne, sitting there forever, a - completely stops MCU the Kang saga unless someone shoves him off the throne, and b - is one of the most depressing endings I have seen in a marvel project to date. Loki is terrified of being alone and now he is. permanently. forever. He doesn't get to live out a life on the timeline, he has to sit there, and listen to his friends move on and live their lives and then die. Like to me this feels like Loki being tied up by the snake and then left with a pool of acid to drip on his face forever. Like it's more of a punishment. Yes, I understand that narratively it had to end this way but I'm still :(

Loki's shoes. I can't. I know it's minor but WHY IS HE WEARING SLIPPERS?

No one making any effort to find him or go sit at the end of time with him. No one cares??

Ravonna just randomly dying at the end by what I presume is Aloith. Okay. Thanks for giving us a conclusive end to her story! :)

We do not know what Sylvie's nexus event is and now we never will

We spent so much time worldbuilding the TVA and then it's pointless. We don't know if they consented to being agents, we don't know how their minds were mass wiped, we don't know what's up with the pie. Why do they have an entire room of pie? That's so weird. The pie clearly meant SOMETHING

So many people in the TVA died for nothing. Brad's team is dead and it didn't DO anything.

I STILL FEEL CONFUSED ABOUT WHY THEY WERE TRYING TO SAVE THE LOOM BECAUSE WHY DID THEY THINK THEY NEEDED IT? DID NO ONE THINK ABOUT WHY IT WAS THERE? No one gave an explanation for why the TVA though it was there and i'm aflksjdlsf

Loki's time slipping started because of kang..........?????????????? how????????????????????????

sylvie's entire character has been muddled down to kang killer and that makes me sad. she had so much more to tell and they just didn't know what to DO with her in season 2.

WHY was the scene with Ravonna and HWR recording there? It didn't mean ANYTHING

I just. I don't know. There's more but I'm tired and can't think of it. I'm just. Irritated. Like I enjoyed this season a lot more than season 1, I genuinely had fun and I am actually sad it's over rather than relieved, but the finale was just bleh to me.

#loki series #loki season 2 #loki season 2 spoilers

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satoshi-mochida · 4 months ago

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The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II coming west in early 2025 - Gematsu

NIS America will release The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Switch, and PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG in early 2025 in the west, the publisher announced.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II is currently available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Switch in Japan and Asia, as well as PC via Steam in Asia.

Here is an overview of the game, via NIS America:

[Possible spoilers for Trails through Daybreak 1]

About

No longer threatened by the mafia organization Almata, the people of Calvard have returned to their peaceful lives. But one day, a shocking series of murders involving a mysterious crimson beast sets the wheels of fate in motion once again. Various factions spring into action – both those who abide by the law to uncover the truth and those looking to capitalize on any new developments wherever possible, no matter how sinister. With chaos once again looming on the horizon, the spriggan Van Arkride receives an unexpected visitor, prompting his own investigation. Who is behind the murders, and what is their goal? The sands of time bring old and new faces together for this thrilling second installment in the Trails through Daybreak saga.

Story

Year 1209 of the Septian Calendar. The threat posed by Almata has passed. Peace has finally returned to Calvard. And, for a time, that peace goes uninterrupted—until a CID special forces unit is slaughtered by an unknown assailant. With authorities working to contain the situation, criminal forces take the chance to make their own moves. Meanwhile, a spriggan by the name of Van Arkride begins his own investigation—after prompting from an unexpected visitor. Who could be responsible for this massacre? What was their objective? And how does it all relate to Agnes’ search for the eighth Genesis? A crimson beast’s roar. A chance meeting with a boy and girl, both embroiled in a mysterious search. These are the circumstances that lure Arkride Solutions down the trail of an inescapable fate.

System

Battle System – The game builds on the seamless transition between field battles and command battles introduced in the previous game with new mechanics that can be used in both: Cross Charge & EX Chains! Mastering the use of these two combo mechanics can provide you with overwhelming firepower to use against your opponents.

Cross Charge – If you manage to Perfect Dodge an enemy’s attack during a field battle, the Cross Charge icon will appear! Pushing the correct button while the icon is on-screen will swap in another party member, who will simultaneously execute a charge attack on your foe! As a bonus, the party member that you swap in will have enhanced attack power for a period of time.

EX Chains – EX Chains can be activated by fulfilling specific conditions during command battles. Once these conditions have been met, using a craft or normal attack against a stunned enemy will automatically activate an EX Chain! This allows party members with SCLM activated to launch a simultaneous attack that will also impact nearby enemies, dealing massive damage.

Choose Your Chapters – Van and his collaborators will not always travel together during the events of Trails through Daybreak II. At times, some of the group may split off in order to take care of tasks in different areas of Calvard concurrently. Because of this, each act contains multiple chapters you can play in any order. Progress the story in the order you choose! Each chapter features a different cast of characters as we see their side of the act’s story play out. Once you’ve completed your chosen chapter, the next one will start up automatically.

Unique Missions – Certain chapters will feature missions that utilize the unique skillsets of the characters in that chapter’s party. For example, directly controlling the holo core AI, Mare, to hack the orbal network, or using Swin to silently tail a suspicious individual.

Characters

Van Arkride – The man at the head of Arkride Solutions. A lover of sweets, saunas, and orbal cars. Due to his job as a spriggan, Van has a tendency to take on legally-questionable jobs. However, the fact that he occasionally walks on the edge of the law does not preclude him from doing good by others—as is evidenced by his numerous personal contacts. While tracking down the Oct-Geneses at Agnes’ request, Van developed the ability to transform into an armored form known as the Grendel with the help of Mare, the holo core installed within his combat orbment. It was with this new ability that he was able to fend off the mafia group known as Almata. Having once terrorized the entirety of the Republic, Almata was eventually brought to its knees by the Arkride Solutions team during the fight for the Oct-Geneses. Upon the quelling of this threat, however, they decided to temporarily go their separate ways. Now left to himself in a less-than- lively office, Van is free to return to his lone-wolf lifestyle once more.

Agnes Claudel – A first-year at the prestigious Aramis Academy who currently serves on its Student Council. Despite her polite manner of speaking and at times meek demeanor, Agnes has shown great strength and determination while employed at Arkride Solutions—especially when facing off against the seedy underbelly of society. Agnes first met Van while searching for eight prototype orbments known as the Oct-Geneses, which she inherited from her great-grandfather. As thanks for taking on her request, she began working as one of Arkride Solution’s part-time assistants. At present, Agnes has recovered seven of the eight Geneses. Unfortunately, while continuing her search for the last remaining Genesis, she’s had no choice but to also divide her time between preparing for the Aramis Academy Festival and periodically helping out around Arkride Solutions. Regarding her relationship with Van, she both respects and admires him as her employer. However, she seems to be harboring some more amorous feelings for him as well…

Elaine Auclair – An A-rank bracer affiliated with the Calvard branch of the Bracer Guild. She is occasionally referred to by the moniker “Beauty’s Blade.” Due to her dignified beauty and masterful skill with a sword, Elaine tends to catch the eye of the media more often than not. Unfortunately, this also leads to talent agencies offering her contracts for modeling and acting—she always declines. Outside of being the poster girl for the Bracer Guild, Elaine has no present interest in joining the world of entertainment. During her high school years, she enjoyed a brief and fleeting romance with Van before he suddenly vanished without so much as a word. It was only recently, after seven years, that the two were able to reunite. Although their lingering feelings for each other have left their current relationship a bit tense, their time fighting Almata together was able to strengthen their bond once more. Some time after the events involving Almata and the Oct-Geneses, Elaine received word that the Central Intelligence Department’s elite Gamma Squad had been brutally murdered by an unknown assailant, and that a ‘crimson’ monster was spotted at the scene of the crime…

World

The Republic of Calvard – A large country located in the central region of the Zemurian continent. Its current leader is President Roy Gramheart. Due to the unfortunate circumstances created by the desertification of eastern Zemuria, Calvard has a substantial history of receiving both immigrants and refugees. The resulting mixture of cultures and ethnicities has made the country into something of a melting pot. One hundred years ago, Calvard was under the heel of its monarchal rulers. It was only after Sheena Dirke and her compatriots brought about a democratic revolution that the nation was transformed into a democratic republic. Though in constant conflict with Erebonia over the control of bordering regions, Calvard has recently been on the receiving end of reparations from the empire following the Battle of Jormungandr. These reparations enabled Calvard to enter a period of rapid growth and development, leading to its eventual overtake of Erebonia as the most powerful nation on the continent. Regarding the region’s recreational interests, recent technological advancements in orbal vehicles and filmmaking have caused a boom in both the motorsports and orbal cinema industries.

Messeldam – A moderate-sized city located in the north of Calvard. Due to its long-standing role as one of the Northern Sea’s major trading ports, Messeldam was often tasked during the days of monarchal rule with the delivery of imports to the capital of Oracion—along with fresh seafood, of course. Although the port remains active to this day, developments in airship technology have greatly diminished its significance. The city itself, however, remains an important gateway to Remiferia and its surrounding nations. Unlike Langport, Messeldam possesses very few tourist destinations. That being said, the townscape’s architecture tends to be quite popular with visitors, as its design has seen little change in the past century. The city’s Eastern and Central Eastern populations are fairly meager due to its geographical location. As such, it lacks a community that values cultural traditionalism. This has, fortunately, been a boon for Messeldam, as new art movements and customs are accepted with relative ease. It was this very attitude that led to the city serving as the venue for the Orbal Film Festival for a number of years, until its relocation to Tharbad in 1208.

Watch the western announcement trailer and a Trails series overview trailer below. View a set of screenshots at the gallery. Visit the official website here.

Western Announce Trailer

youtube

Trails Series Overview Trailer

youtube

#The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II #The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak #The Legend of Heroes #Trails through Daybreak II #Trails through Daybreak #Kuro no Kiseki II #Trails series #Falcom #Gematsu #Youtube

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savage-kult-of-gorthaur · 7 months ago

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PREQUEL JUNKIES, REJOICE!! -- BOUGHT MY TICKET FASTER THAN THE PODRACE AT BOONTA EVE.

PIC INFO: Resolution at 1350x2000 -- Spotlight on"STAR WARS: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace" 25th Anniversary poster design by Matt Ferguson, returning to theaters on May 3, 2024 to commemorate the film's latest milestone.

OVERVIEW: "Every saga has a beginning, including that of poster artist Matt Ferguson and his relationship with "STAR WARS: The Phantom Menace." It started with the original theatrical release in 1999, which followed a huge buildup — it was the first "STAR WARS" film since 1983’s "Return of the Jedi" — and level of anticipation seen by few movies. For 15-year-old Ferguson, living in Sheffield in the UK, the hype was real.

PART 1: “I was actually doing work experience at the time in an office through school, and I remember just being so excited about the new "STAR WARS" movie,” he tells StarWars.com. “I went out and bought this Darth Maul action figure on a lunch break and everybody else was just so excited for it. And then we got to go see it. And I can remember I just loved it.”

PART 2: Fast forward 25 years later, and Ferguson — still based in Sheffield — has been tapped to create the official poster to mark the film’s quarter-centennial milestone. It follows his anniversary art made for "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," and will be seen in theaters around the world as "The Phantom Menace" returns to cinemas starting May 3.

PART 3: The poster is a beautiful image, featuring Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and a regal Queen Padmé Amidala, with Darth Maul’s piercing eyes looming over everything. Earth tones drive the painting, from the twin suns to Jedi robes, in a significant change from his earlier "STAR WARS" work. For Ferguson, the idea of what the poster would be came surprisingly easily.

PART IV: “The key thing is to go on the memory of the film. These are anniversary posters, so it's kind of like, what's my personal memory of the film when it was coming out — almost like, before it came out.” And one specific element plays a big part in Ferguson’s memory.

PART V/END: “The color comes into it a lot for me,” he says. “So there's reds and golds, and I remember a lot of the marketing at the time and a lot of the stuff in toy shops, because I always liked action figures and things, was that kind of color. So that was the thing that I keyed on for this one. I wanted that rich, warm color.""

-- STARWARS.COM, "Matt Ferguson on His Stunning Star Wars: The Phantom Menace 25th Anniversary Poster," by Dan Brooks, published February 12, 2024

Source: www.starwars.com/news/matt-ferguson-the-phantom-menace-25th-anniversary.

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futuremrsdrcullen · 3 months ago

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This love Came Back To Me - Chapter 3

It's Finally Here!!!! I can not apologize enough for how long this took to get out. But here it is! I hope you love it.

My life was in danger.

It was never going to end was it?

Word Count- 12,927

There is no imprinting and there never will be <3

As always, I DO NOT own The Twilight Saga. All rights go directly to S. Meyer.

Read on AO3 <3

Masterlist <3 (Ch 1, Ch 2)

I love you <3 Thank you for still being here <3

“I think I've upset Bella…” Alice said before she threw herself onto the couch next to Carlisle. She had just gotten home from school and normally she came in and gossiped about her classmates, but she was clearly wrapped up in this situation with Bella.

I let Carlisle take the lead, though we both had to hold back a laugh. “Why would you think that?”

She sighed. “Well she didn't say she was mad, but I told her about the graduation party and she didn't really fight back? And then I thanked her for the gift she's going to buy me, but she hardly seemed phased. And when we started to drive her home she asked what day it was and when I said the fourth that's when she got all weird.”

The date made me freeze too. I turned sharply to face her. “Today is June fourth? You're sure?”

“Not you too…” She groaned. “What is wrong with the date?”

I took a deep breath. “I'm sure it just took her by surprise. Its- it's really close to graduation.” I had to force the answer out. Carlisle kissed my hair. “I didn't realize it was so soon either…”

I was only guaranteed ten more human days with my sister. Only ten days until everything changed and I didn't know when I'd see her again- or any of them for that matter. Carlisle promised to stay with me, of course, but the others would probably leave with Bella and Edward. I didn’t know if I would see them again until I was ready to become a vampire too.

I shivered and leaned into Carlisle.

“I don't see her changing right away, Y/n” Her face softened as she saw how tense I’d gotten. “She may be determined, but Edward won't let anyone change her until everything in Seattle is settled and even then there’s still the intruder to worry about.”

“We don't know how long that will take. We still don't even know what's going on.” I pointed out.

“That's her point, Dove. She still has plenty of time.” He whispered.

I tried my best to not roll my eyes. Bella was going to push every one of their buttons until she got her way- rogue vampires be damned. I couldn't hope for the best when Bella was involved; I knew I had to prepare for the worst.

“Honestly, I'm just glad she didn't throw a fit about the party. I've planned it all perfectly.” Alice moved on from my worries.

I sighed but didn’t disrupt her joy, “How many people are you expecting?”

She beamed, “Almost seventy, currently.” It was Carlisle's turn to tense, but Alice casually pressed on. “I invited everyone from our graduating class, and Bella's family. Nearly everyone agreed to come too.”

“Seventy? Bella is okay with seventy people being here? Will Jasper be okay?”

“Jasper is around more people at school everyday. He'll be fine.” She brushed me off but Jasper did give me a soft smile in thanks from his side of the room. Alice continued, “Bella doesn't exactly know how many people are coming…”

Carlisle and I couldn't contain our laughter. “That's why she didn't freak out.”

“She. Will. Get. Over. It. I'm excited. This party will be perfect.” Without another word, she got up and floated up the stairs.

I turned so I could hide my face in Carlisle's chest, though it barely muffled my laughter. He still laughed too and soothed my hair.

“This is a mess…” As our laughter died my thoughts went back to the beginning of the conversation. It was overwhelming. Between moving in with Carlisle and Bella's graduation looming, and whatever was going on in Seattle, at times it felt like the walls were closing in.

But Carlisle held me close and kissed my forehead and whispered, “It will be alright. We'll get through this together.” And I believed him.

The Seattle News had been playing on the TV for over an hour now, though it was too low for me to make out what was going on. Carlisle filled me in occasionally with a simplified version. I knew he was sugar-coating it. I wasn’t sure I even wanted to know the truth. They discussed things from the news in hushed voices, but nothing changed enough to please Alice and whatever she was seeing in her visions. Mornings like this often gave me more anxiety than clarity.

Still, Jasper calmed the rest of them and Emmett tried to distract me. Somehow, he managed to get Rosalie to play a game of Uno with us; she was winning.

They turned to face the door seconds before it opened. Carlisle whispered to me that it was just Bella and Edward so I could relax a bit. I was always more at ease when we were all together, but I had to pick on Bella just a bit.

“Shouldn’t you be in class?” I called over my shoulder as they walked into the living room.

She smiled at me. “Ditching is healthy.”

It made Emmett laugh, “She can just catch this lesson next time.” Which made both Edward and Rosalie roll their eyes. He completely missed it or chose to ignore them. “Want us to deal you in?”

“Rose is winning.”

Bella sat next to me and shook her head, as Edward walked over and handed Carlisle a piece of paper.

“Did you see that they’re considering a serial killer now?” he asked.

Carlisle sighed. “They’ve had two specialists debating the possibility on CNN all morning.”

“We can’t let this go on”

“Let's go now, I’m dead bored.” Emmett dropped his cards and walked over to Edward. Rosalie hissed at his word exactly as I gasped. The rest of the room was unphased. Emmett muttered something under his breath

But Edward agreed, “We’ll have to go sometime.”

The alternative was letting the Volturi handle it, and none of us wanted that. I also knew how heavily the death count was weighing on Carlisle. They would act and they would probably do it soon. I shivered.

“I know,” Carlisle sighed.

“Oh,” Edward said sharply, turning his head slightly to look at Jasper. “I didn’t think of that. I see. You’re right, that has to be it. Well, that changes everything.”

The entire room froze, staring at Edward like he’d sprouted a second head. I only tore my gaze away long enough to check with Bella, who looked the most confused.

“I think you better explain to the others,” Edward said, still only talking to Jasper despite the annoyance growing on everyone's face. Edward started pacing and mumbling and Alice joined us at Bella’s side.

“What is he rambling about?” She asked Jasper. “What are you thinking?”

Noticing the attention on him, Jasper shied closer to Alice, but his eyes danced between Bella and me.

“You’re confused.” He said as if it wasn’t clear. He knew exactly how confused we all were. I chose to not point it out.

“You both need to understand this. Since you’re part of us now.” Bella looked shocked, but I was too confused. He continued, “How much do you know about me?”

Emmett gave up and sat down dramatically next to me. He picked up his cards again though there was no way I could focus on Uno now. He sighed.

“Not much,” Bella admitted.

Jasper stared at Edward, who looked to meet his gaze.

“No, I’m sure you can understand why I haven’t told her that story. But I suppose she needs to hear it now.”

When Carlisle was met with the same questioning gaze he held up his hands. “It wasn’t my story to tell.” I almost laughed.

Jasper nodded, clearly at a loss as to where to start. He rolled up his sleeve and held his arm out to Bella. I wondered how his arms played a part of this until I saw what his fingers traced.

His arms were covered in lots of little crescent shaped scars.

I gasped and then Bella seemed to get it too. “Oh, Jasper, you have a scar exactly like mine.”

Jasper smiled faintly. “I have a lot of scars like yours, Bella.”

He was polite, but his face was unreadable. Bella’s scar was given to her by James. I’d guessed that she had been bitten, but no one ever explicitly confirmed the events of that night with me. I could tell from Bella’s reaction alone that the same could be said for Jasper. The sheer volume of bites stunned me to silence.

Bella stared up at him. “Jasper, what happened to you?”

“The same thing that happened to your hand,” he answered in a quiet voice.”Repeated a thousand times. Our venom is the only thing that leaves a scar.”

“How?” I wasn’t sure what I was asking. How did he get bitten so many times? How did he survive? But he understood, and started his story.

“I didn’t have quite the same… upbringing as my adopted siblings here.” As he spoke his voice went cold. I hated it. I knew his past was worlds away, but I wished I could protect him from it.

“You should know, before I go further, that there are parts of our world you haven’t needed to see. In the north it’s easy for us to blend in. We don’t have to fight for territory. We can coexist. But in the south, immortals only come out at night, while spending their days plotting this never ending war.”

“Fighting for what?” I didn’t want to ask, but was glad Bella did.

He almost smiled. “To them, territory is power. They all want the places where they can feed without much notice. If there was one coven, who controlled a densely populated area, they could hunt freely. Each coven would have to fight to keep the land in their control.

“Wars broke out all across the south. Some with more effective tactics than others, but there was one that won out. One vampire, Benito, claimed most of Texas and northern Mexico in a matter of weeks, he was unbeatable.”

“How did he do it?” my voice was shakier than I expected it to be.

“He created an army of newborn vampires. Newborns are nearly impossible to control. Their thirst is really the only thing that controls them. And they’re just as likely to take out themselves as they are to take out an enemy. He created more as they destroyed themselves and when it came down to a fight, he’d walk away on top.

“When the surrounding covens realized what was happening they created armies of their own, though it was often too late.

“All hell broke loose- and I mean that more literally than you could possibly imagine. We immortals have our histories, too, and this particular war will never be forgotten. Of course, it was not a good time to be human in Mexico, either.”

“So, as the body count rose to unthinkable numbers the Volturi stepped in to clean up the mess. The entire guard came together and sought out every newborn in the bottom half of North America. They killed Benito first, and sought out his followers. If anyone had a newborn within two thousand miles of Mexico City, the entire coven paid with their lives. Our kind will always remember this too. The Volturi didn’t ask questions. They didn’t offer second chances.

“When the Volturi returned to Italy, the southerners left behind were quick to reclaim land. They were smarter, quieter this time. These newborns were carefully selected and thoroughly trained. And, though rarely necessary, the Volturi will step in to clear out the cities. But they let the quiet ones- the careful ones continue.”

He looked lost in his own thoughts as he stared at his arm. I almost reached out and grabbed his hand for reassurance, but thought better of it.

“That’s how you were changed.” Bella whispered.

He nodded. “I lived in Texas, just outside of Houston. I tried to join the army in 1861, but I was seventeen and they saw right through me. I didn’t really want to fight, but I had watched the horrors that had fallen on my community and I wanted to help. So many innocent people died because the confederates didn’t stop to consider how the civilians would be affected.

“I was young and dumb, but I had a way with people. I had to lie a lot, to get battle plans, or uniforms, but people trusted me. I used that trust to lead women and children away from battlegrounds.

“That night wasn't any different than the rest. I had just led a group of young women to safety and was headed back to Galveston. I didn't want to waste time, I didn't stop to rest. I was maybe an hour out of town when I saw three women walking alone. I was afraid they were stragglers.

“Their names were Maria, Nettie, and Lucy. They hadn't been together long- Maria had rounded up the other two- all three were survivors of recently lost battles. They all had their own goals but they all agreed on one thing. They wanted territory.

“Maria was the one who turned me. Said she ‘had a good feeling’ about me. I didn't know what she meant at the time. Every instinct in my body screamed at me to run. Of course, I didn't know then that running would do me no good. Still, I wanted to run, but I couldn’t. If I had been right and they had needed help, I wanted to help them; I was completely frozen in place.

“Maria grew quite fond of me- she began to depend on me. And in some ways, I worshiped the ground she walked on. She put me in charge of the army she was building. I still had so little understanding of my powers but as long as I could keep everyone calm and quiet, Maria had use for me.

“For her, I fully trained an army of twenty-three. We fought a group of only eleven and only lost four of ours. And because we were so well trained, we did it without attracting notice. The city changed hands without any human being aware.”

“Maria was greedy and she'd made a few too many enemies. Though things did quiet down for us over time, there are still small battles. Power is a dangerous thing. Many still seek vengeance. They won't easily forget.

“I made her newborns- dozens at a time- that I then destroyed after a year of each new life. Every life I took weighed heavily on me. Each time, I hesitated more and more. I'd made fast friends with a newborn named Peter. He was strong so Maria let him live and he was in charge of helping me dispose of the rest. As much as it weighed on me, it really took a toll on Peter. And one day he met his mate- A newborn named Charlotte. She brought him back to life, but she ran out of time. Instead of ending her, he told her to run. He took off with her. I was supposed to track them down. I never did.

“Maria was irritated with me for that…

“Five years later, Peter came back for me.” I could tell by the change in his demeanor we were getting past the scary stuff. He was still tense, but he smiled softly at the memory of Charlotte and Peter. I didn't know them, but I was grateful for their part in his life.

“Peter told me about his new life with Charlotte, told me about options I'd never dreamed I had. I walked away without a backwards glance. Maria didn't track me down. She didn't fight for me. I was grateful I wouldn't have to kill her. We weren't close but we'd spent so many years together… I don't think I could have killed her if I tried.

“I didn't realize how depressed I'd gotten until I was far out of it. Always worse after I hunted. Always tearing away pieces of what soul I had left. I felt the savagery of the newborns for years, the hatred that filled our every battle, but also the fear of every human I killed.

“It broke me…

“I went my own way. I tried so many ways to keep some sense of sanity, but nothing stuck. After a century of instant gratification, I found self-discipline… challenging. I still haven't perfected that.”

I was so lost in his words, I almost laughed. His face softened into a peaceful smile. It was a nice change; one I was grateful for.

“I was in Philadelphia. There was a storm, and I was out during the day- something I was not completely comfortable with yet. I knew standing in the rain would attract attention, so I ducked into a little half-empty diner. My eyes were dark enough no one would notice them, though that meant I was thirsty, and that worried me a little.

“She was there- expecting me, naturally.” He finally chuckled and so did I. It was clear as day how much happier he was. “She hopped down from the high stool at the counter as soon as I walked in and came directly towards me.

“It shocked me. I was not sure if she meant to attack. But she was smiling, and the emotions that were emanating from her were like nothing I'd ever felt before.”

“You had kept me waiting a long time.” Alice was next to him suddenly, wrapping her arm in his, their fingers intertwining. “And you ducked your head, like a good southern gentleman, and said, ‘I'm sorry, ma'am’. She laughed at the memory.

Jasper smiled at her like she'd hung the moon. My heart melted. “You held out your hand and I took it without stopping to make sense of what I was doing. For the first time in almost a century, I felt hope.”

As infatuated with his story as I was, I knew the reason he told it now. There was an army forming in Seattle. Alice and Jasper smiled at each other as they recounted joining the rest of the Cullens and I struggled to follow along.

I caught the end of something Edward was saying, “When I got home, all of my things were in the garage.”

Alice only shrugged. “Your room had the best view.”

Everyone laughed. I played along and laughed too, but Carlisle could tell it was forced. His hand tightened around mine ever so slightly.

“That’s a nice story,” Bella said. Everyone looked at her like she'd lost it- even me. She quickly clarified. “I mean the last part. The happy ending with Alice.”

“Alice has made all the difference,” Jasper agreed. “This is a climate I enjoy.”

Finally, Alice went back to the point of the story. “An army,” she whispered, “Why didn't you tell me?”

I was glad I wasn't the only one worried. Though I could barely force the words out, I needed to ask, “And you guys plan to face this?”

“We don't have much of a choice, Cara.” Carlisle's voice was soothing as he pressed into my side.

Jasper answered only Alice's question, “I hoped I was mistaken. I hoped that maybe I just saw the similarities because of my past. It simply doesn't make sense for there to be an army in Seattle. No one would want to claim it for power when there isn’t anyone to oppose. No one would even defend it.

“But I've seen this before, and there's no other explanation. There is an army of newborn vampires in Seattle. Fewer than twenty, I'd guess. The difficult part is that they are totally out of control. Whoever made them just set them loose. It will only get worse, and it won't be much longer till the Volturi step in. Actually, I'm surprised they've let it go on so long.”

“What can we do?” Carlisle asked his son.

I sat forward and placed my face in my hands, resting my elbows on my knees. They continued to make plans. Jasper wanted us to find an advantage. I couldn't really hear past the blood rushing around in my head. I wanted to vomit. I was so sick of that feeling.

“Maybe we won't have to.” Edward’s voice broke through my anguish, though I wished it hadn't. “Does it occur to anyone else that the only possible threat in the area that would call for the creation of an army is… us?”

“Oh for fucks sake…” I whimpered. Carlisle almost laughed at my outburst as his thumb traced comforting circles on my hand.

There was a silence in the room as everyone took in Edwards words. There were various states of confusion. Bella seemed the most lost. But Edward, Jasper, Alice, and Carlisle seemed to understand the gravity of it all. I just wanted them to say it and get it over with.

Alice spoke first, “They're not coming after us,” she insisted, her eyes dancing wildly. “Or… they don't know that they are. Not yet.”

I couldn't hope that they weren't after us. “What can you see, Alice?”

“Flickers,” Alice answered. “I can't see a clear picture when I try to see what's going on, nothing concrete. But I've been getting these strange flashes. Not enough to make sense of.”

“Like they can't decide if we're worth it? Or they don't even know what they're doing?”

“I don't know…”

“Wait…” We all faced Edward while he tried to make sense of what Alice couldn't. “Not indecision- Knowledge. Someone who knows you can't see anything until the decision is made. Someone who is hiding from us. Playing with the holes in your vision.”

I sigh, “So it has to be the Volturi.”

“But I would see if they decided to come…”

“Unless they aren't acting directly. It has to be them. You said Aro read your mind in Italy, right? And he's always wanted the two of you.” I gesture between her and Edward. “So, he calls in a favor, someone who would do as he says without question.”

Rosalie agreed with me, “Someone in the south… someone who already had trouble with the rules. Someone who should have been destroyed is offered a second chance- if they take care of this one small problem… That would explain the Volturi's sluggish response.”

“Or their lack of response at all. The only question left is why?”

Despite his comforting, I think Carlisle was just as confused as we were. “There’s no reason for the Volturi-”

“It was there,” Edward interrupted. “I didn’t expect it so quickly- his thoughts were all over the place and the others were… louder, I guess. But like Y/n said, he wants me and Alice by his side. He’d have the present and the future right in the palm of his hands.”

“He would kill the rest of us just to have you two?” Emmett asked. “That doesn’t make any sense.”

“But it does, if he wants to weed out the competition. Carlisle has what he wants, a large coven of loyal and gifted followers. If he had someone take us down, sparing only Alice and myself, then we would join him and there wouldn’t be another large powerful coven to oppose him.” Edward added.

It was Carlisle who interrupted this time. “They’re too committed to their mission. They would never break the rules themselves. It goes against everything they’ve worked for.”

“They’ll clean it up afterward. A double betrayal,” Edward’s voice was grim but not surprised. “No harm done.”

“No, Carlisle is right. The Volturi do not break rules. Not to mention the mess. Whoever this is has no clue what they’re doing. This has to be their first time making an army- I’d put money on it. It’s too hard to believe the Volturi are involved. But they will be.”

The stress around the room is palpable- even as Jasper worked to calm the space around us.

Emmett clapped once, pulling focus. “Then let's go! What are we waiting for?”

Carlisle and Edward exchanged a long glance. Edward nodded once. My breath caught in my throat.

“We’ll need you to teach us, Jasper,” Carlisle finally said. “How to destroy them.” As much as I hated the idea, I knew how heavily it would weigh on him. I couldn’t muster up much strength, but I looked at his face, I watched his eyes, and I squeezed his hand- If only so he knew I was there with him.

Our eyes met for the briefest moment and he kissed my forehead before returning to the conversation.

Jasper added that they would need extra hands. “Do you think Tanya’s family would be willing? Another five mature vampires would make a huge difference. And then Kate and Eleazar would be especially advantageous on our side. It would be almost easy, with their aid.”

“We’ll ask,” Carlisle answered as he took out his phone. He kissed my hand before pacing in front of the windows. Edward pulled Bella to sit between him and I on the couch. Across the room, Carlisle spoke quickly and quietly but everyone in the room remained tense.

My eyes never left his face.

Edward groaned from the other side of Bella. “Damn it. Damn Laurent to the deepest pit of hell where he belongs.”

“Laurent?” Bella whispered. I tore my eyes from Carlisle to her. She looked more scared by the name than she had been of Jasper's backstory.

While Edward read his fathers thoughts, I tried to get her attention. “Which one was Laurent again?”

“James’ coven. Moved to Denali, found me in the meadow.” She shivered.

My mouth formed an ‘oh’ but we focused on Carlisle’s phone call again. I had never seen him quite like this. He was almost begging whoever had answered, but his tone was firm and calm.

“There’s no question of that,” he was suddenly angrier than before. “We have a truce. They haven’t broken it, and neither will we. I’m sorry to hear that… Of course. We’ll just have to do our best alone.” He hung up the phone without another word. His eyes watched the fog out of the window.

I was on my feet before I even knew what I was doing. My hand found his, he pulled me into him. I buried my face in his chest and he rested his chin on my head.

“What’s the problem?” Emmett asked.

Carlisle answered, “Irina and Laurent were… romantically involved. More so than we knew. She is still angry with the wolves for their part in his death.”

Edward took over when Carlisle couldn’t go on. “She wants revenge. To take down the pack. They would trade their help for our permission.”

“No!” Bella gasped.

“We would never agree to those terms.” I said, to help calm Bella’s nerves.

“Neither would I. Laurent had it coming,” Edward growled. “And I still owe the wolves for that.”

“So it will be an even fight…” I looked at Jasper and he nodded.

“We may still win. We have the upperhand in skill, just not numbers.” His eyes left mine to only glance at Alice. When he found me again, there was a bit more panic on his face.

If they won this at all, not everyone would come home.

Edward, Rosalie, and Carlisle went hunting a couple of days later. He expected to only be away a few hours- twelve at the most, since they weren’t going far. The original plan was for Bella to hang out at our house so the three that were staying could keep her out of trouble. She opted out to go see Jacob- which I thought was a better plan anyway.

However, that did leave Emmett, Alice, Jasper, and myself to our own devices.

Normally I would have been very excited for Bella to get a chance to see Jacob, but right that very second, I really wished she was there to at least mediate.

Emmett was laying on the kitchen floor dramatically. “We are in way over our heads.” I giggled as Alice stomped over to him. “How are we going to make over a hundred cupcakes in just a few days?” He acted like we were forcing him.

“It’s only a hundred and forty! I want every guest to at least have two. Bella’s graduation is important.” She sounded exhausted, not that that was possible- and not that I could blame her, Emmett was kind of acting like a baby.

She looked at me so she could beg with her eyes to get him to cooperate. Jasper just laughed and continued scooping batter into the trays.

Emmett just groaned and rolled over to his stomach. “Go on without me… I won’t make it.”

The glare on Alice’s face was the only thing to hold back my giggles. I would never say it, but I almost agreed with him. We’d been at this cupcake thing for more than an hour and we still didn’t have any cupcakes in the oven. In Alice’s defense, she bought eight cupcake trays and we had two ovens, so once we got this batch in we’d only have to do it one more time to be over her goal anyway.

I decided it would be best not to offer any input for either side. I liked my head exactly where it was. Instead I nudged Emmett with my foot. “All you have to do is crack a few more eggs. Then she might let you off the hook.”

“I won’t even ask you to decorate!” Alice’s tone was sweet- too sweet. I knew as soon as she said it she was up to something.

I might have been the only one to notice though. Jasper continued with his task and Emmett got to his feet. He grumbled a little more, but continued cracking eggs.

I’d hoped the moment passed, but then Jasper said, “She wouldn’t want you to decorate anyway.”

I froze, Alice’s eyes went wide.

“Boys-” I warned as Emmett picked up two eggs from the carton.

“Jasper, please don’t-”

“Wanna elaborate, Cowboy?” Emmett pressed. Their matching smirks were the only thing reminding me that while they were only playing, things could easily get very messy.

“I mean… The cupcakes would look like shit if you decorated them.” Emmett threw one of the eggs as soon as the words left his lips. It hit the center of Jasper’s chest with an oddly satisfying splat. “Hey now,” he laughed. “Let’s not start something Y/n will have to clean up.”

I definitely would have made them clean it up, but I kept my opinions to myself.

Emmett gave me an apologetic smile, but his focus didn’t leave Jasper. “I bet I can make prettier cupcakes than you can.”

Jasper’s smirk grew. Alice almost danced with excitement. I caught on to the couples scheme. Poor, sweet Emmett had no idea.

“Really now?” Jasper’s southern drawl was dangerous. “You wanna place bets?”

Just like that, Emmett took out his wallet and set a one hundred dollar bill on the counter. Jasper laid down two more.

“Winner takes all?” Now Emmett smirked and held out his hand.

I quickly added, “Loser cleans up!” just so Alice and I didn’t have to piece the kitchen back together.

“Sounds good to me.” Jasper shook his hand, then faced me and Alice. “Ladies, Do you want to judge?”

“Absolutely.” Alice said. Her smile matched Jaspers.

“As long as Alice gets final say. It’s her party.” And I did not want to be caught in the aftermath.

Alice and I proceeded to supervise the boys competition. I half listened as she talked through the rest of her party plans and half watched out the back window for Carlisle return.

It was so easy to be comfortable with them. They always made me feel like I belonged. I was constantly surrounded by this overwhelming sense of family and belonging. Somehow, despite everything, the Cullens felt like family. Like coming home after an extended trip to open arms. Like a part of me missed them before I even knew them.

And like a part of them missed me too.

“I think Bella invited some of the wolves…” The annoyance in Alice’s voice pulled me out of my thoughts. Jasper's gaze was on me, a soft smile on his face. I blushed and pulled my focus to Alice. “I can barely see it anymore.”

“Jacob’s coming here?” I asked.

“I guess… Or he’s trying to decide. It comes and goes in flashes. It’s really hard to plan a party I can’t see.”

Everyone laughed but Alice.

“I think that’s how most people feel, Sweetheart.” Jasper kissed her cheek.

“I’m serious! I haven’t been able to see anything for hours. What if I’m not making enough cupcakes?”

Emmett looked up. He had icing on his cheek. I hid my giggles with the back of my hand.

“I can make more. I’m in the zone now.” he offered without any prompting.

“You’re the best, Emmett!” Alice skipped over to him and threw her arms around him. Jasper and I made eye contact again and laughed to ourselves.

By the time he ‘ran out of steam’ he had made two hundred and six cupcakes.

Jaspers were a bit prettier but we let Emmett have it for being such a good sport. (and for doing most of the work.) I was still anxiously watching the front door. They talked about something on the TV. I only pretended to be interested.

It wasn’t long before Carlisle had his arms around me. I’d barely turned around before I heard Edwards tires screeching out of the garage.

Still, I leaned up and kissed Carlisle.

Now that Carlisle was back, Emmett moved towards the garage to meet up with Rosalie. “What’s his deal?” He asked Carlisle over his shoulder.

“He didn’t go into much detail. Something happened with Bella at Jacob's. He said they'd be here shortly.”

My eyes darted to Alice who looked just as concerned as I felt. I wasn't sure if he knew more and just didn't tell me yet. I tried not to panic.

“I haven't seen anything… Jacob is still too involved. But I'll keep you updated.” She painted on a smile and turned back to the TV.

Carlisle ran a soothing hand over my arm. “I'm sure it will be alright. How was your day?”

I didn't let his efforts to calm my worry go wasted. I knew Edward would be normally a bit jumpy when they'd get back, especially when Jacob was involved. They were probably right. It was probably nothing. I took a deep breath and answered his question.

“Alice wanted to make cupcakes for the party. Emmett was kinda a baby about it at first, but the ones he made came out really nice.”

“Well, there aren't any scorch marks in the kitchen.” the corner of his mouth turned slightly upwards slightly. “That is an impressive feat in and of itself.”

I laughed with him. “I supervised!”

“She was great!” Alice added.

Carlisle’s smile was soft as his eyes met mine. “She always is.”

I, of course, melted into him. I hid the color in my cheeks by burying my face in his chest. I felt his soft chuckle as he held me tighter. I continued with the shift in conversation. “What about you? How was your trip?”

I felt him sigh. “It went smoothly, though it did end abruptly. I think we were finishing up anyway. The quick trip will definitely help in the long run.” I understood his meaning without him having to elaborate. I wanted them to be as prepared as possible, that was all I needed to know.

For just a moment we fell into comfortable small talk about the day's events. Alice complained some more about her lack of visions involving the party.

Until Alice froze and spoke quickly. “Finally! They're almost here. Bella thinks she's broken her hand.” She focused on Carlisle, “They want you to look at it.”

“I'll go get my bag.” He kissed my forehead and disappeared up the stairs. I went out into the garage just as they were pulling in.

Bella and Edward were already getting out of the car. Emmett was holding up his jeep so Rose could work under it. Somehow, I was unphased. I noticed the way Bella was babying her hand and that took my focus.

I asked, “What happened? Are you okay?” At the same time Emmett asked, “Fall down again, Bella?”

Her soft eyes shifted from me to glare at him. “No, Emmett. I punched a werewolf in the face.”

Shocked, I stared at her. Emmett, of course, burst out laughing. I managed to push my panic aside. “Who? Why?”

I wasn't sure I actually asked until she stopped glaring at Emmett to answer me. “Jacob kissed me.”

My confusion faded to anger. I had to bite my cheek to contain it. “Why?”

“Because he's an entitled, selfish, piece of-”

From her spot under the Jeep, Rosalie laughed and announced, “Jasper's going to win the bet.”

Edward winced and tried to pull Bella faster into the house but she froze in her spot.

“What damn bet?” My anger with Jacob shifted back to general confusion, with just a touch of anger. I was already tired of their bets after the cupcake debacle and while I had no idea what they'd bet on, I had a terrible feeling about it.

Bella looked between the boys and demanded, “What bet?”

“Let's get you to Carlisle. Y/n, is he in his office?” I knew he knew exactly where in the house he was and was just trying to use that to shift her focus. I didn't answer.

“What bet?” Bella insisted.

“Thanks, Rosalie.” His arm tightened around her waist and he continued forward.

“Edward…” the concern was heavy in my voice but it also came off as a warning. I didn't want him to pick a fight with Rose. I also wanted to know about the bet.

“It's infantile,” He shrugged. “Emmett and Jasper like to gamble.”

I rolled my eyes.

She didn't drop it there. She tried to turn back, but his arm was tight around her waist. “Emmett will tell me.”

He sighed, finally giving in. He probably knew that neither of us would drop it. Bella could get Emmett to tell her, I'd get Carlisle to tell me. “They're betting on how many times you… slip up in the first year.”

The horror on Bella's face matched my own. I suddenly felt like throwing up and wished I had never asked.

Bella repeated his answer to elaborate. “They have a bet on how many people I’ll kill?”

“Yes.” He sounded annoyed, I couldn't help but agree. “Rosalie thinks your temper will turn the odds in Jasper’s favor.”

Bella looked lost. I was grateful we were still walking towards Carlisle.

“Jasper's betting high.”

“It will make him feel better if you have a hard time adjusting. He's tired of being the weakest link.”

“Sure. Of course it will. I guess I could throw in a few extra homicides, if it makes Jasper happy. Why not?” Her voice was flat and distant.

“I- That's so fucked up actually…” I didn't want to think about what they thought Bella would be like as a newborn vampire. Or that that was right around the corner.

I definitely didn't want to know if they'd placed bets about me.

“They didn't,” Edward answered anyway. “They talked about it, but it's not certain when- or if you'll be like us. Also Jasper thinks you're too much like Carlisle. It wouldn't be wise to bet high.”

I cringed, wanting to throw up again.

He squeezed Bella a bit tighter. “But neither of you need to worry about it now. In fact, you don’t have to worry about it ever, if you don't want to.”

Bella groaned and Edward pulled her a bit faster to the dining room. I didn't think it was her hand that was bothering her, but I was grateful he wanted to get her to Carlisle faster. I was more than willing to be closer to him as well.

Carlisle looked at Bella's hand for all of two minutes before agreeing that it was broken. He wanted to take her to the clinic for a legitimate x-ray and proper cast, but they came to a compromise. She just had to wear a brace and let him check on her regularly. She promised to be good and follow the doctor's orders.

Bella was out of it. Edward fussed over her multiple times, but she wasn't in any pain. Carlisle gave her some pain meds just in case.

Even as she hugged me before they left, she seemed off. I wondered if she really was just tired or if, like me, the idea of their bet threw her off.

When they were gone, Carlisle walked with me to our room. I was ready to pass out. The weight of the day was finally catching up to me. I couldn’t believe how tired I’d gotten in just the last 30 minutes.

Carlisle laid in bed next to me; both of us on our sides, facing each other, our hands joined between us. We laid there for a moment, just existing together, but my curiosity did get the better of me.

“Did you know?” I asked, just barely above a whisper.

“About the boys bet?” I nodded and he sighed. “Not exactly. I knew of the debate that started the bet. I knew that Jasper had joked that once Bella was a newborn, he wouldn’t be our biggest concern. However, they knew better than discussing it around me or Edward. I only heard in passing what Edward gathered from their thoughts.” His tone was apologetic, even though he hadn’t done anything wrong.

“I’m not upset with them.” I specified. “They’re just being silly. It’s just… It’s weird to think about what we’ll be like… after.” I felt like my voice sounded as distant as Bella’s did earlier.

“You don’t have to-”

“I know. They didn’t even bet on my… outcome.” I almost laughed. “The idea of it though, somehow makes this all feel more real.”

He did laugh. “What do you mean?”

“I don’t know.” I rolled over to my back and stared at the ceiling. He wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him. “I guess I just couldn’t imagine it before. Like a part of me held on to the fantasy of it.”

“But since Jasper's story… and then today, after they mentioned the bet… It’s like now I can see it. I can see Bella with red eyes and cold skin. I can picture myself like you. It’s just so real.”

I turned back to him and his eyes were on me. I could tell he was analyzing my words, but his gaze wasn’t harsh. He was calm and soft and collected just like he always was- all while trying to decide if I was panicking.

I caressed his face. “I still want this… eventually. Not now-” I smiled softly at him and he smiled back. “But at some point, I still want to be like you. You just have to promise to love me if I accidentally kill people.”

He moved so he was positioned a bit over me, without putting any actual weight on me. “I will always love you, and I think I can manage keeping you in line.”

“That’s good…” I leaned up to kiss his nose. “Someone has to. It might take all of us to keep Bella in line.”

His lips lifted on one side in a half smile that made me melt. “Are you betting high?”

I playfully glared at him. “I am not betting… But if I had to guess, I think Bella is stubborn and she doesn’t really take no for an answer. And if this spring was any indication she has a flair for the dramatics- justified or not.”

He thought over my points for a moment before nodding. “You have excellent points. It’s a good thing there’s six of us.”

“And some overly attached wolves.” I giggled.

“I have nothing to wear!” Bella said into her now empty closet. I sat on the floor leaning against her bed. I started in the bed but as she pulled out all of her clothes I was quickly booted to the floor. “At this rate, I’m graduating in this!” she gestured towards herself and her old sweats and baggy sweater.

“You will not!” I insisted. “We’ll stop at a store on the way if we have to.”

“We don’t have time!” She glared at the pile of clothes. “Stupid, thieving, annoying vampire!”

I nearly jumped out of my skin when Alice said “What did I do?” while leaning casually beside the open window.

“Holy shit- Alice!”

She just laughed and added “Knock, knock.” with a grin.

“Is it really so hard to wait for me to get the door?”

“Or at least shoot either of us a text first so you don’t give us a heart attack?”

“It’s more fun this way.” Her grin got a touch wider “Anyway! I was passing through and I thought you might need something to wear.”

I giggled as Alice tossed a white box on the bed. Bella looked like she was relieved and also like she might throw up.

“Admit it,” Alice said. “I’m a lifesaver.”

“You’re a lifesaver,” Bella muttered. “Thanks.”

“Well, it’s nice to get something right for a chance. You don’t know how irritating it is- missing things the way I have been. I feel so useless. So… normal.” She cringed. I had to laugh.

“How could you?” I joked at the same time Bell said “Eww, normal?”

Alice laughed. “Well this makes up for missing your annoying thief- now I just have to figure out what I’m not seeing in Seattle.”

Maybe it was the look on Bella’s face or the way Alice said our two problems so closely together, but it clicked. All of it lined up perfectly. I quickly scanned Bella’s face as she put it together. Her eyes darted between me and Alice as she tried to judge if we’d caught on. I nodded but Alice remained unmoved.

“Aren’t you going to open it?” Her question barely had time to settle before she moved to open it for her. “Pretty, don’t you think? I picked blue because I know it’s Edward’s favorite on you.” Bella wasn’t listening. She looked completely dazed.

I stood up and grabbed Alice’s hand. “Alice.”

At the same time Bella whispered “It’s the same.”

Alice didn’t get it. “What is?” she demanded. “You don’t have anything like this. For crying out loud you only own one skirt!”

“No-” Bella cut me off.

“-Alice! Forget the clothes, listen!”

She still hadn’t caught on, her face softened with disappointment “You don’t like it?”

“Listen, Alice, don’t you see? It’s the same!”

“The uninvited visitor, our missing things, the newborns-”

“Yeah! Thank you, Y/n!” She seemed a little less frantic knowing I understood. “They’re together.”

Alice froze, the dress fell from her hands delicately back into the box. “Why do you think that?”

“Remember what Edward said? About someone using the holes in your vision to keep you from seeing the newborns-”

“Right! And I brought up that I thought that maybe they were just curious as they passed through-”

“Then what you said before, Alice. The timing was too perfect.”

“Someone ‘Just curious’ wouldn’t have taken our things.” I added air quotes around my own words knowing now just how wrong I was. “And they were way too careful not to make any contact.”

“Because he knew you would see that.”

“You were right, Alice. He has to know. There’s no chance it’s multiple people who not only know, but are also using the holes in your vision at the same time.” Bella looked at me. Alice was still frozen.

Bella continued. “The one making the army is the one who stole our things.”

Alice stayed completely unmoving for quite some time. Around a minute in, I sat on the bed, trying my best to mind the pile of clothes. More time passed in silence. I was afraid she'd gone into shock.

Then she whispered, “You're right.” Her voice was hollow and completely detached. I wasn't convinced she was okay. I worried she was panicking. “Of course you're both right. And when you put it that way…”

“Edward had it wrong.” Bella whispered. From where I sat, it was hard to make out what she said. “It was a test… to see if it would work.”

“To see if he could get in, get our scent, and get back out unharmed.” I added.

“As long as he didn't do anything you would be watching out for.” Bella continued.

“Like speak to either of us… or eat our father.” I shivered.

“And he didn't take our things to prove he found us. He stole our scent… so that the others could find us.”

Another moment passed without a sound. None of us breathed. We were right. We had to be right. It was clear Alice knew it too.

“Oh, no,” she mouthed. Alice's stillness quickly became a panic that rivaled my own. Bella somehow looked relieved.

“Well,” she whispered. “Everyone can relax. Nobody's trying to exterminate the Cullens after all.”

Her words confused me. I just stared at her for a beat. “Relax? That's what you got from this?”

“If you think that one thing has changed, you're absolutely wrong.”

I teetered this line of understanding where Bella was coming from and outright disagreeing. This wasn't about the Cullens, which was good, but there was a ravenous army of newborn vampires after the two of us. If we could just turn ourselves over to them, maybe they'd leave our family alone. “But the Cullens would never let them get to us. No one will back down without a fight.”

“You're probably right- But at least we know what they're after. That has to help.”

“Maybe,” Alice muttered before she started pacing Bella's room.

When Dad knocked on the door both Bella and I nearly jumped out of our skin. Alice kept pacing, unbothered.

“Aren't you girls ready yet? We're going to be late!” I was sure he was more bothered that he had to wear a tie than he was about being late.

“Almost. Give us a minute.” Bella said hoarsely

His tone changed from frustration to concern immediately “Are you crying?”

“No. I'm nervous. Go away.”

Once he had grumbled his way back down the stairs, Alice whispered again, “I have to go.”

“Why?” Bella and I asked at the same time.

“Edward is coming. If he hears this…”

“Go, go.” Again, Bella and I spoke in unison. I knew that Edward wouldn't have the best reaction, which was easily an understatement.

“Y/n, can you keep him out of your thoughts?” Alice asked. My eyes went wide, not having considered the issue, but I nodded.

“I can try. I've never done it on purpose, but I’ll really really try.”

She did not look convinced. “If you can't keep him out, just keep your thoughts busy with literally anything else.” I nodded again trying to plan what to think about for the entirety of the graduation.

“Put that on,” Alice commanded before going back out the window. Bella looked at me and I just walked out of the room without another word- unsure of what to say anyway.

Dad was in the kitchen, looking at the paper, grumbling something along the lines of “-that girl is going to be late to her own damn graduation…” but I couldn't really hear him over the roaring in my head.

Could I just choose to keep Edward out of my thoughts? And, if I couldn't, could I really keep my head busy enough for him not to catch on.

And, possibly the hardest part, could I sit next to Carlisle for the entire graduation ceremony like nothing was wrong. He would be able to tell the second he saw me that something was off and I would have to be able to still not think about it and not tell him when he asked.

I poured what was left of the coffee into my travel mug, knowing very well it would not help the pit in my stomach but I hoped it would at least give my brain a bit of a caffeine buzz. As I finished making my coffee, Bella rushed downstairs. Dad complimented her and asked about her dress. She thanked him. She mentioned Alice.

I wasn't paying attention.

Once Edward arrived I thought about all of the shoes that I owned. I tried to just think ‘no Edward’ but didn't want to trust in that alone. They just as quickly drifted out to the cruiser. Dad kissed my check on his way out.

“I'll be right behind you guys. I'm almost ready.” I mumbled and Dad nodded but I didn't hear if he said anything. I shut the door behind them and for a second leaned my head against it.

I whispered to myself as I heard the car pull away. “It's no big deal. It's just an hour- maybe two. I can do this. I can do this.” I breathed a heavy sigh and straightened my dress. “I really hope I can do this.

I turned my back to the door to put on shoes. I looked one last time in the mirror by the door. I opened the door but immediately shut it back.

Quickly, I ran through the house and made sure every window was shut tight and locked. I made sure the back door was locked and double checked the front door was locked before heading to the school.

I got to my seat mere seconds before the ceremony started. Carlisle had chosen a seat that was next to isle and left the seat next to him for me. My Dad was just behind him with Billy and Jacob. I tried my best to smile politely at Billy. I didn't even look at Jacob.

Carlisle stood and placed his hand on the small of my back as I passed. He kissed my cheek and whispered “You look stunning, as always.”

I mumbled my thanks and it took a single second after I sat down for him to ask, “What's happened? Are you alright?”

I almost let my guard down. My mantra of ‘No Edward. No Edward. No Edward.’ almost paused, but I managed to get a grip. “Nothing’s happened. Everythings fine. I’m okay?”

His eyes squinted slightly, like he was analyzing every syllable in my words.

“I promise I will tell you about it later.” I smiled as best as I could at him. I poked the middle of my own forehead twice before repeating the motion on his.

“Oh,” He mouthed. “I understand.” He didn’t press though his grip did tighten ever so slightly around my hand. I kissed him quickly and Dad cleared his throat behind us. I let myself giggle.

When Principal Greene started the ceremony I repeated every word he said in my mind.

I clapped and cheered when Alice was called. She appeared, accepted the diploma, and disappeared just as quickly; I pretended not to notice. Edward followed after and his general confusion was clear. I continued to clap but my cheering was cut off when his sharp gaze met mine.

His expression didn’t change beyond confusion. I breathed a sigh of relief but sang Twinkle Twinkle Little Star in my head anyway. Even Jasper walked across the stage just as tense as Alice had been. Carlisle continued to cheer for his family as they graduated again.

As the next names were called he said under his breath, “He’s not sure what, but he can tell all of you are hiding something.”

I said nothing and continued the lullabies in my head.

When Bella’s name was called, Dad stood and cheered. Jacobs cheering was the loudest and though I rolled my eyes, it did make Bella crack a small smile- even if it was a little forced.

I stood and clapped with everyone else at the graduates moved their tassels and threw their caps. The kids started meeting up with their families and friends. I planned my escape route just to get stopped by Dad and Billy.

Dad asked if I wanted to go out to eat with them, which I could politely decline since Alice had made the party such a big deal. He bought it easily, said goodbye to me and Carlisle, before leaving with Billy and Jacob. Thankfully Jacob said nothing to me the whole time.

As soon as they were gone, Carlisle put an arm around my waist and started to walk with me to my car. He turned his head to face me as we walked, one eyebrow raised. “Y/n?”

“Carlisle?” I’d switched from lullabies to 80s love songs. If he was still in my head, I Wanna Dance With Somebody would have to work as a distraction.

“Will you please tell me what is going on?”

I shushed him. I doubted anyone could even hear our conversation over the crowd of families but I wasn’t going to risk it now. “As soon as no one can hear us.” I assured him.

The plan was that I would drive separately to the graduation and Carlisle would follow me back to our house after. That way I could help Bella get ready in the morning and then I could help Alice set up after the ceremony. I didn’t think the plan had changed and he walked me to my car like everything was normal. His arm stayed around my waist our entire walk. I figured we’d made it out of the woods without Edward finding out and freaking out.

But as we walked up to my car, Carlisle said, “I understand why you didn’t want to tell anyone in there.”

My eyes shot open and I turned to face him. “She told him? Is he alright? Is he freaking out?”

“He’s… not calm. But he will be alright, Mon Coeur.” He opened my door. “I do hope you have a bit more understanding than your sister, who seems to think that this connection solves everything.”

I didn’t move to get in the car. “I know it doesn’t. I think it’s probably worse…”

“It’s definitely worse.” He drew his lips into a line. “I’ll see you at the house. I will be right behind you the entire time.”

I nodded and kissed him. His car was behind mine before I even left the parking lot.

Alice gave everyone tasks. As soon as we walked in the door we were assigned balloon duty. I could hardly focus on the balloons. I popped three and let go of more than I could count. I giggled everytime they shot across the room. Alice sighed and took the remaining stack from me.

“I think that’s enough balloons… I’m going to get the music started. Y/n, why don’t you change into your party clothes?”

I looked down at my clothes then at Carlisle and mumbled, “What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?”

“Nothing!” She said quickly. “It’s just that this is a party, and you look like you’re going to a graduation- Oh! I have the perfect dress!” and then she vanished up the stairs.

Carlisle only chuckled once he’d heard me laugh. Edward and Bella came in before Alice came back down. Edward was normally hard to read but his face really gave nothing away as to what he was feeling.

“Edward!” Alice had emerged from upstairs, seemingly unaware how much she’d startled me. Carlisle chuckled and rubbed my arm. “I need your advice. Should we give them familiar and comforting or educate their taste in music?”

“Keep it comforting,” Edward recommended. “You can only lead the horse to water.”

Alice nodded and started the music, placing whatever she decided was too ‘Educational’ in a separate box.

Bella looked down at her blue dress and mumbled. “I think I’m underdressed.”

“You’re perfect,” Edward disagreed.

“Alice is just over dressed,” I added.

She ignored me and said to Bella, “You’ll do.”

I laughed. Bella thanked her but her voice still had hope when she asked “Do you really think people will come?” Alice made a face at her.

“Everyone will come.” Edward confirmed. I watched Bella deflate. I wasn't too excited about the party, but I was excited to watch Bella try to navigate the house full of people.

Then Alice continued barking orders. I followed along, completing small tasks for her. Bella held on to Edward while we floated around. I doubted he would have let her go, but I also never saw her try. The guys moved as Alice commanded, all while discussing battle strategies for their attack on the newborns in Seattle.

I wanted to throw up.

They still had no backup. Tanya’s family refused to send any aid, and of course there was still no chance they’d change Bella early. Yet they still had every intention to charge in before the army got too close.

Jasper looked about as nervous as I felt. Trying every angle he could think of just to swing the odds in our favor. I hated that it wasn’t looking like a bright outcome. Not to mention they had no idea what they were going to do with me and Bella during the fight.

I didn’t like the idea of staying in forks and waiting it out. I wouldn’t let them divide their numbers by making anyone stay behind. Bella looked like the thought alone would drive her mad.

But then the doorbell rang.

Everything shifted immediately, going from betting odds and battle strategies to teenage house party. The stress melted out of the room, while still clinging to me. Carlisle smiled, Jasper moved to Alice’s side. Alice turned up the music, pointed at me, and mouthed the word ‘change’, before dancing to get the door.

I let out a harsh laugh and kissed Carlisle’s cheek and drifted upstairs to put on whatever it was that Alice deemed party worthy.

I was a bit thankful, actually. Not only to get out of my dress and- with any luck- into something a bit more comfortable. But I was thankful that even for just a moment, I could take a breath and try to push some of the panic aside.

I shut the door behind me and took the biggest breath I could muster; granted, it was shaky and broken. I tried again. And somehow that one was worse. I hoped that with the music and the chatter even the Cullens couldn’t hear my gasps. I moved from the door as fast as I could and sat on the edge of the bed. My hand went to my chest.

I knew that at least tonight we were fine. They weren’t coming to get us tonight and now that we had a more clear picture, Alice could probably see them coming. I didn’t have to panic.

And yet… There I sat. Panicking.

I was completely overwhelmed with this looming dread. This wasn’t just about Bella anymore. Though that was bad enough, this involved me now. Despite how often Edward disregarded my safety and despite how desperately Carlisle tried to protect me from this;

My life was in danger.

It was never going to end was it?

I was shaking and crying before I even realized. I’d been in there for a while when there was a soft knock at the door followed by another that was a bit more demanding. I had just enough time to wipe my tears and sit up straighter before the door cracked open. I saw Jasper's soft blonde curls before it registered that it was him.

“Y/n?” His accent was thick with concern, even as he just said my name.

“Jasper… I-I” I tried to breathe again. “I figured you were Carlisle.”

“Alice had him step out to get ice. He figured he’d be back before you noticed he was gone. But I heard you crying… thought I could lend a hand.”

I smiled softly at him and he took a small step into the room. He left the door cracked just slightly so the noise filtered in. I took another deep, settling breath.

“Alice might come lookin for ya if you don’t come down soon, but I might be able to stall her a bit longer.”

I almost giggled but it got caught in my throat. He handed me a tissue. “Thank you, Jasper. I really should get down there.”

“No problem. Though, I wish I could do more to ease your panic.”

I sighed, “Thanks for always trying…” I took his outreached hand and he helped me to my feet. I held on to him a bit longer just to make sure I was stable on my feet. I thanked him again.

He chuckled and grinned softly. “Happy to help.”

I turned to let him go but stopped before he could. “Uhm… one last thing?” He nodded. I sighed and my lip trembled. I pushed past it and said, “Are our numbers… completely hopeless?” I had to look out the window and blink back my reamerging tears.

“I wouldn’t say hopeless… I’m just not quite used to playing with the disadvantage. But, I’ve never lost a fight. I don’t plan on startin’ now… Especially not now when my family is involved.”

I pulled my eyes back to his and saw the sincerity there.

He nodded and I nodded and he continued. “Everyone will be alright. We have to be confident.”

I nodded again and mumbled my thanks.

This time when he went to leave I didn’t stop him. I quickly changed into what Alice had laid out, though I did forgo the heels.

I made my way down the stairs. Alice was pointing Carlisle to where she wanted him to take the ice but Jasper took it from him and nodded towards me. I mouthed one last thank you in his direction before meeting Carlisle’s warm gaze. His soft smile and bright gold eyes almost washed my panic away completely.

He saw it anyway and when his arm wrapped around my waist he pulled me close to him. His free hand went to my chin, lifting it so he could see my face better. I felt my cheeks heat.

“You’ve been crying. Has something happened?” His tone was hushed even as he scanned me for obvious injury.

I giggled and shook my head. “I’m fine. I just got overwhelmed.” When he just looked at me with one eyebrow raised, I lifted a pinky. “Promise! It’s no big deal. We can talk about it later.”

He didn’t look happy about it, but he interlocked his pinky with mine before fully taking my hand. We walked into the main room where the bulk of the guests had started hanging out.

He pointed out to me that the largest tower of cupcakes was nearly empty. I was glad they were doing well with the crowd after all the work Emmett and Alice put into them. A few girls walked up and gave compliments to Carlisle about our home. Some were obviously flirting with him. It made me giggle every time. His hand never left the small of my back.

Everything was going smoothly, until it wasn’t.

Bella was talking with Jessica and Edward, then Edward walked off, just fast enough to still seem natural. Bella looked around for a second and then something caught her eye behind us. I turned and saw Alice frozen in the doorway. She looked like she could hardly stand on her own.

Carlisle froze too. I sharply turned to face him again and whispered, “What’s wrong?” The quiver in my voice was only loud enough for him to hear.

“I’m… not sure. Stay here, I’ll find Edward.”

Two seconds after he walked off and I walked over to where Bella had met Alice, the doorbell rang.

I only caught the end of what they were saying. “I have to talk to Carlisle,” Alice had said. Then she was gone and Bella said to the space where she’d been, “No, Alice, wait!” before swearing under her breath.

I touched her arm and she still jumped. “Where did they go? What is going on?”

“I have no idea… Where is Carlisle?” I could tell she was just as lost as I was.

“Looking for Edward.” The doorbell rang again. “Should I get that?”

“No.” She started heading for the stairs. I continued to stand there, confused.

“Hey, Bella!” I didn’t expect to see Jacob. As a matter of fact, I’d never expected to see Jacob in my house at all. Definitely after the shit he pulled the last time she hung out with him. But there he was, in my living room with two of his friends. Though it was clear, at least to me, that his friends very much did not want to be there.

Bella also did not want them to be there. She waved back at him when he waved, but still turned and disappeared into the crowd. Jacob disappeared too and I just stood there with my hands in the air.

“I… don’t worry guys. I’ll handle the party hosting. It’s fine…” I said sarcastically and just loud enough that they probably heard. Something was going on, and instead of telling me- or Bella from the looks of it, they ran off to have a secret little meeting.

I scanned the crowd looking for a single vampire or at least Bella, but all I found was the back of Jacobs head. I guessed he was talking with Bella but I did not want to get involved. I had nothing nice to say to him, So I walked away. I moved into the room picking up and throwing away abandoned plates and empty cups. I was in the middle of wiping icing off the table cloth when Alice’s cool hand wrapped around my arm.

“Shit! My god- Alice… you nearly scared me to death!” I put a hand on my chest to try to slow my heart beat. Her face didn’t change.

She looked panicked.

“Alice, what’s wrong?”

“I need you to come with me. Where’s Bella?”

I looked at the crowd again. “She’s over there with-” before I could finish she disappeared, “with Jacob…” I pulled my lips into a tight line, but headed towards where I’d last seen Bella.

Alice was already there, whispering to Bella. They started to walk off with me trailing behind when Jacob blocked their path. “Hey, not so fast.”

Alice and I demanded in sync, “Excuse me?” I glared at him but her eyes stayed wide.

“Tell us what's going on.”

“How about you-” I took a step forward, but Bella held her hand to stop me.

Jasper appeared next to Alice and I'd never been so excited to see him. Jacob, on the other hand, took a step back. I could barely hold back my laughter.

“We have a right to know.” Jacob muttered, still glaring at me.

I had to bite my tongue. Jasper stepped in between us. Jacob and his friends tensed.

This time Bella stepped in, laughing just slightly to play it cool. “Hey, hey… This is a party, remember?”

No one moved. I glared at Jacob and Jasper as they had a seemingly never ending staring contest. Alice was the first one to soften.

“It's okay, Jasper. He actually has a point.” Jasper did not relax.

“What did you see, Alice?” Bella asked, like she could not handle the anticipation a second longer.

Alice took a moment before her eyes left Jacob and met Bella's anxious gaze.

She answered loud enough for everyone to hear. “The decision has been made.”

“You're going to Seattle?”

“No,”

“No? What do you mean, ‘no’?” I asked even though I had a sinking feeling I did not want to know.

Bella looked like I felt; Her face paled as she figured out what she meant. “They're coming here?” She choked out.

“Here?” I couldn't comprehend what they were saying. How could the army come here? The boys in front of me looked equally as confused. Nothing felt real.

“Yes.”

“To forks.”

“Yes.”

“For?”

Alice nodded, in understanding. “One carried your things. Your red shirt and your pillow case.”

“But… they can’t come here. It’s too close. Dad is here- Bella-” My voice didn’t sound like my own.

“I know,” Alice agreed with more sadness in her eyes than I had the capacity to understand. “But it doesn’t matter where we stop them. There still won’t be enough of us, and some of them will come here to search.”

“No!” Bella whispered.

My eyes locked on Jaspers. Just an hour before, he’d said our numbers weren’t hopeless. I wanted to beg him to have that confidence now. I needed them to find a way to stop whatever end we were coming to. He only watched Alice.

Bella grabbed my arm and pulled my focus. I felt the world spin. “Then we have to go meet them!” Her voice was shrill.

“Bella!” Alice scolded.

“Hold it,” Jacob spoke for the first time in a long time. He looked caught between anger and confusion. “What is coming?”

Since they decided to talk about it so openly, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to explain but I still whispered. “Newborn vampires. Like a whole bunch of them.” I hated how small my voice was.

“Why?” He pressed.

Alice took over for me. “For Y/n and Bella. That’s all we know.”

“There are too many for you?” he asked.

Jasper was deeply annoyed with the question. “We have a few advantages. It will be an even fight.”

A terrible thought passed through my head. I tried to push it away but Jacob grinned in a way that could only mean he was thinking the same thing. “Jake- no…”

No one acknowledged me.

“No,” Jacob said. “It won’t be even.”

“Excellent!” Alice hissed. I was frozen. Bella was frozen. Alice and Jacob just grinned at each other. “Everything just disappeared, of course. That’s inconvenient, but, all things considered, I’ll take it.”

“We’ll have to coordinate,” Jacob started but all of the noise was overwhelming. Their words sounded like mush. The music was too loud. I squeezed my eyes close and took a few deep breaths while Alice, Jasper, and Jacob casually discussed fighting an army.

I felt a cool hand brush against my arm though I couldn’t tell whose. I locked our fingers together and opened my eyes to find Rosalie. I didn't know when she’d gotten there but I was grateful she had.Bella was too distracted to notice we’d left.

Wordlessly she led us out of the crowd and safely into the garage. It was considerably quieter in there. She took me straight to Carlisle's side then she moved to stand next to Emmett. I mumbled my thanks to her as I wrapped my arms around him. While normally, his presence alone was enough to calm my heart rate, at that moment I still felt like I was drowning in panic.

Carlisle said something to the others in a tone too low for me to understand as he pulled me close to him. He kissed my hair. Only when I was completely surrounded by him did I feel like I could even breathe. His hold on me didn’t loosen.

“Find Bella and Alice. End this party on a positive note. We can reconvene later.” He sounded calm. Everyone followed his instructions without another word to either of us. I’d only just heard the door to the garage shut behind them before Carlisle shifted me back and lifted my chin so he could see my face better. “Everything will be okay.”

I wasn’t crying. I could have, at any second, but I was afraid that if I started I wouldn’t be able to stop. He ran a thumb over my cheek anyway. I held it together better than I thought I would, but maybe I was out of energy to fight and panic. I let his confidence soothe me and nodded softly.

I didn't believe him- but I wanted to. I wanted to believe that with aid from the wolves we'd make it out of this unscathed. No one would be hurt. We'd be safe again. But the worry I felt was bigger than me.

So I just let him hold me. He dulled the ache with soft kisses to my face. He kissed me and held me right where they'd left us in the garage until there was only silence around us. As much as I needed this- as much as I needed him, I could tell by the way he held me that he needed me too. The kisses to my head and face and neck reassured him as much as they did me. When we finally drifted inside everyone was gone. We went upstairs to our room so I could try to get some rest.

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#twilight #carlisle cullen #twilight fanfiction #carlisle cullen x reader #im always in this twilight #twilight x reader #iaitt #arent we just terrified #this love came back to me #tlcbtm

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