#MAMA ALMA IS HERE TO LOVE

[soapybutt17]

Baby Mama

Summary: Downtime was rare and far in between, but with your maternity leave now done and over with, your husband thought it would be a good time as any to invite everyone to your shared home for a mini celebration. It should have also been a good idea to let everyone know about the small little fact that not everyone was made aware of your relationship or the fact that there was a sleeping baby upstairs that hated Soap’s boisterous laughter for some reason. Character: John Price x F!Wife!Reader. Simon "Ghost" Riley. Kyle "Gaz" Garrick. John "Soap" MacTavish. Farah Karim. Alex Keller. Kate Laswell. Word Count: 2,313 Chapter Warnings: None.

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“Sit down, Rookie. We’ve got it covered.”

You wanted to glare at your husband and the rest of the taskforce that had made it their mission to ensure you were not in-charge of handling meal preps for the upcoming party you and your husband had decided to start in celebration for both your return back to the base as well as the success of their previous mission.

“Why do I feel like a guest in my own home?” You playfully questioned as Gaz placed a cup of tea in front of you. A reassuring smile rested on his lips.

“You’ve been wide awake until the early morning taking care of the little girl sleeping upstairs. Quite frankly, we’d prefer you to sleep instead than deal with the rest of us here.” Gaz explained as he returned back to helping Soap with prepping for the marinade for the barbeque.

“I’ve dealt with worse.” You pouted, ignoring the pointed look on your husband knowing they were right.

“Just because you’ve dealt with it on missions doesn’t mean you should deal with it in our home, Darling.” John sighed wiping his hand to come sit beside you on backyard patio.

Since your maternity leave and your husband’s own paternity one, you’ve somehow gotten enough money and time to make some new renovations to the home. One that you were proud of the most was the patio that would not only be a place for you and your husband to enjoy for yourselves, but for the guest he was slowly but surely becoming welcome to inviting—especially now.

With Soap and Gaz prepping the marinate and vegetables and Simon dealing with most of the meat (surprised by the fact that he was once a butcher before joining the military), you and your husband were left to your own devices for a while.

“Little Katherine still asleep?” He inquired.

You turned your attention towards the baby monitor, seeing your daughter thankfully still asleep in her crib.

It still amazes you that this little human was a product of your love and devotion to your husband. Even with her arrival an unplanned surprise for the both of you, you’ve both taken it to stride and made the most out of the experience. Your husband hoping for another few along the way but you made him promise to wait until little Katherine was a little older first.

“Asleep for once.” You sighed resting your head against your husband’s shoulders as you two continued watching the boys helping out for the party. “Why are we letting them help us with our own party again?”

“They did this to themselves surprisingly. When they heard we’re having this party, they immediately worried about you and the baby and adding the mess of the party to the mix. You’ve got those boys wrapped around your fingers and it’s worrisome at times.”

You giggled nudging him slightly at this comment.

“Speaking of people wrapped around your fingers, Alejandro and Rudy will also be coming tonight.”

You smiled, happy to know more of the friends you’ve made during missions have also come to visit. Having missed your time on the base, having them here for a get together would be a treat. You would also be ignoring the implication of your husband’s words towards Las Almas’ Colonel and Sergeant Major.

Somehow, it had become a topic of discussion for the rest of the boys how the Colonel had a little crush on you which you thought was ridiculous. Alejandro Vargas was nothing but professional to you and to the rest of the team. As far as you know, the man was just a little appreciative of the help you had given to them during Grave’s takeover of his base all those months ago, nothing more.

“You think Kate, Farah, and Alex would be able to visit too?” You inquired.

“They’re already on their flight here.” He smiled arm wrapped around your shoulders. “Kate’s been bugging me about the house when I told him about the renovations.”

You shook your head already imagining how much teasing Kate probably needed to do for him to finally relent in having the party here instead of renting a place.

A sudden thought had popped into your head as you turned directly towards your husband.

“Hold on, aside from the three boys, who else knows about our relationship?” You inquired.

He blinked only realizing himself that he hasn’t gotten around and told anyone about the two of you. Everyone had become aware of him having a wife and the paternity leave he had to take meant everyone was also aware that he was a new father, but no one not even Kate was made aware that you were the wife and the mother of his six-month old daughter.

“John did you not tell them yet?” You questioned.

“I may or may not have forgotten to tell everyone.” He grinned sheepishly.

Before you could give him an earful, the sound of your daughter’s cries halted you from your actions. You’ve all but noticed the sigh of relief that escaped his lips. Oh you’re going to get back at him for this somehow. You just know it.

~

“Rookie, it’s good to finally see you. How’s the leave been?”

Captain John Price was a lot of things. He was a patient man. He could be a brash man. He was a man that commands respect and authority. But in this very moment as you wore his favorite sun dress on you, he knew he could not be all of those things.

He was being punished. It was a certain and each and every single men of his Taskforce knows about it as well. It had honestly and genuinely slipped his mind, with both the past mission and his need to finally be back at home, he never had the time to orient everyone and anyone involved at base about his relationship and marriage to you until now that is.

“Good to see you and the wife too.” You smiled turning your eyes towards your husband pointedly before beginning an animated conversation with Kate and her wife.

John and the rest of the boys were in charge of grilling and giving everyone refreshments. You had decided it was your job to be a good host to everyone as people were slowly but surely filling his home.

“Someone’s sleeping in the couch tonight then?” It was Simon that pointed it out and John could only glare at the man as he continued on with flipping the steaks.

All three of the boys had become aware of the pettiness you could dish out towards their Captain. It wasn’t so often that it happens but the paradigm shift of their Captain not truly being in charge as soon as he was in the confinements of his own home.

“Happy wife, happy life.” John found himself speaking as his attention was still set on the grill.

His own anxiety somehow spiked up the moment an all too familiar Spanish endearment had escapade from the Las Almas-native. Alejandro Vargas was fashionably late as ever.

He had ordered Simon to continue on with cooking as he made his way towards where Alejandro was now in a full discussion with you. It didn’t escape John’s eyes the smoldering look the Colonel was giving his wife. What annoyed him even more was how much you were unbothered—or rather, unaware of it on your own end. Giving the man a smile and those warm gaze that was somewhat always reserved for him and the rest of his men.

“Good to see you, Alejandro.” John had interrupted your little conversation.

“Price. It’s good to see you again, Hermano.” The man chuckled enveloping him into a hug for a moment.

Even with the conversation that now began between him and the Colonel, It didn’t miss his gaze how the both of them would glance right at you as you now stood beside John and joining in on the conversation. It also didn’t escape anyone’s notice how your hand held onto his arm, showcasing the often concealed engagement ring and wedding ring he had gifted you all those years ago when he proposed and made you his wife.

“I see you’ve gotten married while on break, it seems congratulations are in order.” Alejandro finally acknowledge the elephant in the room taking everyone’s notice as well.

“Actually,” You trailed off turning your head towards him, a playful smile on your lips almost waiting for him to make the acknowledgement instead.

“We—we just had a baby.” John finally admits at the same time the sound of the baby monitor going off.

Everyone was silent aside from Soap and Gaz’s cackles. With a relieved smile you excused yourself to get the baby for everyone to meet leaving John on the hotseat, especially at the hands of both Kate and Farah.

“Hold on, since when have you and Rookie been in a relationship?” Kate questioned, a big smile playing on her face. Oh he could already see the array of torment that was to come during missions with this tidbit about his personal life.

“Since I was a Sergeant and she was a newly appointed Lieutenant.” John sighed scratching his beard and knowing full well you were taking your sweet time with your daughter leaving him to the wolves. “Married for fourteen years.” He added, being all too reminded of the fact that as soon as he had finished up with the mission that saved both Farah and her brother all those years ago, he knew it in his heart that there would never be a perfect time for the two of you to marry but in that very moment in your humble apartment in the heart of London all those years ago.

“Fuck, I lost the bet then.” Alex interrupted the moment of shock still resting on everyone as he handed Farah a few quid which she happily took with a smug smile on her face.

“Well I appreciate the bets being thrown around about my personal life.” He muttered.

“I’ve always knew something was going on with the two of you, Old man.” Farah pointed out. “It was just a matter of determining what status the two of you were to each other at this point.”

So much for acting low key about his relationship.

The hot seat was now away from him as you walked back out with the prettiest little baby he had ever seen in his life (he was bias definitely as this was his child after all). Woken up from her nap, John could see his daughter still cranky as you continued to coo her.

“Just woke up from her nap.” You excuse immediately handing the baby to him. A smile resting on his lips now as how easy it was to calm his daughter in his hands. How quick it was for her own similar blue eyes to lock onto him for comfort and safety. It was all he could ever give and more to both of his girls.

“Looks just like you, Cap.” Alex pointed out earning a snort out of you and a proud chuckle out of John.

It was an ongoing banter between the two of you, how you complain about carrying your daughter for nine months only for her to look just like him. But his daughter has your eyes and he was all too certain would be used against him when she learns how to do the puppy dog eyes when she grows up.

“Cries like him too.” Simon quipped earning a pointed look from John and giggle from you and laughter from everyone else.

At the booming laughter of one Soap MacTavish, the first line of tears had burst out of his daughter and you and John had given the man a glare as he began to coo his daughter from her tears.

~

To say freely acting like a husband and wife in front of most of your coworkers was awkward but a little refreshing to say the least. With your daughter pawned off to her uncles for the next hour or two, it meant you and your husband could freely socialize with the rest of the team in attendance.

“Still can’t believe you two were able to keep it hidden for so long.” It was Kate that finally broke the ice.

“Less hassle for either of us.” John shrugged off, pulling you closer to him.

It was all the more refreshing to see this side of him that no one usually sees. With you sitting on his lap on the love seat as you continued on with your conversation with Kate. How he would do anything and everything in his power to have you close to him, touching any skin he gets his hands on—at this moment it was his hands on your thighs as he held onto them to support you.

“That the reason why you dragged her along with you the TF?” She inquired, playfully.

“One of the reasons, but not the top reason.” John assured.

It was still much of a surrealistic moment when you were called one day by Kate about the Taskforce your husband was forming. You, of all people knew that he wanted to make sure that your lines of work and personal life were separate. But somehow, your capabilities overrode those principles you both have made to each other.

You did your job, quiet well too, so it wasn’t much of a worry that your relationship and association to the man would be also place under scrutiny now when all was said and done. It wasn’t much of an issue when most, if not all of the people in the base had already been calling the both of you as work spouses to each other.

[jayswritings13]

Total Drama: Alejandro Relationship Headcanons

Request: "Can I request dating headcanons with Alejandro?" by @ali-simpp

💗Masterlist | WIP Page

Alejandro is hard to get to know at first.

Yeah, he's friendly-ish and charming when it comes to small talk and general conversation.

But, anything deeper than that is like pulling teeth.

"WHY DO YOU WANT TO KNOW?!"

"Because I'm dating you and I'd like to know about your childhood."

Once Alejandro feels as though he can fully trust you with personal information, he is much more open and shares things before you even ask.

THE NICK NAMES!

Sometimes, it seems like he doesn't remember your actual name.

"Some breakfast, mi amor(my love)?"

"Corazón(sweetheart)?! Are you okay?"

"You look radiant, mi alma gemela(my soulmate)."

In fact, Alejandro shows a lot of his affection through words of affirmation and physical touch.

If you ever move from his touch or physical affection(even without meaning to), he will be offended and he will make a big deal of it.

"...not a big fucking deal." You laughed, tossing your keys on the table and shrugging your jacket off.

"Not a big deal? Not a big deal?!" Alejandro stormed in after you. "You basically deflected every advance and touch I did tonight!!"

"I know!" You sighed, "I didn't mean to, but after you grabbed my ass."

"That's never stopped you before."

"It was a work party, Alejandro!"

"Ptff, no one was there."

"Which meant that those there definitely saw."

Alejandro is a huge romantic and goes all out for any occasion.

This is especially true for date nights.

Fancy dinners and reservations at the best restaurants.

Secluded starlight pinics with homemade food all prepared and made by him

Well, mostly. A little help from DJ and his mama was needed.

Nights in with drinks and dancing.

Alejandro knows this too, which makes it you life mission to out romance him at any given chance.

Fancy dinners are topped by a surprise birthday party.

Starlit pinics replaced with night swimming and museum visits

Dancing and drinking replaced with spa day and letting someone else do Alejandro's crazy skin routine instead of doing it himself.

It doesn't happen often that you outdo Alejandro, but when it does, that happy and loved look on his face is priceless.

Alejandro will try to teach you spanish if you do not know it.

"¿Qué te gustaría comer?(What would you like to eat?)"

"Uh.... "

"You got this. What did I ask?"

"Where I want to......"

"Yes. Almost there."

".....go out??"

"Close."

Thankfully, he is patient in teaching you.

Though, if you do know Spanish, he is thrilled to speak Spanish primarily with you instead of English, especially since he's much more comfortable with Spanish.

Alejandro does not like to talk about Total Drama or his time on the show.

If you and Alejandro met through Total Drama, then he will sometimes talk about the show here and there.

Also, if he met you through the show, he is and will always be grateful for that.

If you met him outside of the show, you would have never known that he had been on a reality tv show, except for actually watching him that is.

He does not talk about it often, it ever.

Though, you now know that is because of the severe post-traumatic stress that he has experienced while on the show.

The dangerous challenges, disgusting food, and getting injured while in Hawaii.

"You don't have to talk about it any more if it hurts too much." You said, tightening your grip on Alejandro's hand.

Alejandro doesn't say anything, but the look of relief on his face says it all.

"Soy tan afortunado de tenerte en mi vida (I am so lucky to have you in my life)."

"I am too."

[rv3rblog]

spanish nicknames 2 use when writing hispanic/spanish speaking characters

this is coming as someone who’s mexican, there might b other names other cultures use im not rlly sure. also these aren’t like ALL of them btw. these r ones i used on exs/have read.

gender neutral:

mi amor (my love)

mi vida (my life)

mi corazón (my heart)

corazoncito

mi luz (my light)

mi sol (my sun)

mi luna (my moon)

estrella/estrellita (star/little star)

bebé (baby)

amorcito (lover - not to b confused w “amanté” which means mistress (aka the other man/women) do not trust google !)

mi cielo (my sky)

mi alma (my soul)

fem.

ma/mami/mamas (i cnt think of an actual translation for this? it’s jus smth that’s used) (but like literal translation it means “mom/mommy”) (ok so turns out it is used as “baby/honey/sweetheart/sweetie”)

conejita ( (little) bunny but fem.)

gatita (kitty but make it fem.)

chiquita (shorty is like.. the literal translation for this)

masc.

papi/papa (again cnt rlly think abt how to translate this into a pet name but the literal translation means “daddy”) (again, turns out it is used as “baby/honey/sweetheart/sweetie”)

chiquito (again, means shorty but affectionate)

gatito (kitty but make it masc.)

conejito (same here. (little) bunny but make it masc.)

some phrases i like using/writing/reading

“eres mi vida” (literal translation “you’re my life” but i think of it in a more “you mean everything to me” way.)

“mi corazón es tuyo” (means “my heart is yours” it’s jus extremely cheesy it makes me giggle)

“todo es para ti” (means “everything (i) do is for you” makes me giggle 2)

“me vuelves loco mi amor” (so silly “you drive me crazy” like awe shucks.)

“cuanto te quiero”/“te amo con todo mi corazón” (1. “how much i love you” 2. “i love you with all my heart”. there’s a diff between “quiero” and “amo” btw. generally depends on the context and WHO the person is speaking to.)

“eres mi sol, mi luna y las estrellas. eres mi cielo” (so cute. means “you’re my sun, my moon and all the stars. you’re the entire sky to me.” ok but fr? “mi cielo” is hard to translate.)

“deme que eres mía/mío” (cheesy and possessive !! “tell me you’re mine.”)

like i said b4 these aren’t all of them but the ones i think r the most popular! enjoy and happy writing/writing. lmk if uve got any questions or need help translating :p always down to help !!

[goddess-aelin]

Hide And Seek

Day 19 of Rowaelin Month: A day with the kids

@rowaelinscourt

Masterlist

Word count: 1k

Warnings: none other than this is unedited and not at all coherent because I wrote it in the dead of night 😂

Aelin watched over her book as her daughter’s blond curls bounced by for the third time. Aelin lounged on the settee near the small, personal, library, romance novel in hand and a glass of iced tea by her side. These were the moments that Aelin lived for: the quiet times where she could take a breath, only interrupted by her daughter’s sweet giggles.

Only, she had no idea what her daughter was actually doing. Alma’s little feet pattered across the wooden floors, quieting as she receded down the hallway and getting louder as she came nearer. The three year old’s cycle seemed to last a few minutes, a ceasing of her footsteps entirely as she ran into the other room.

Aelin was just about to get up and see what exactly Alma was doing in the other room when a muffled “psst,” sounded from nearby. Aelin’s head swiveled, looking for the source of the sound. Her gaze landed on a cracked door to what she assumed was a supply closet considering its position in the middle of the hallway. As she got closer to the door, a familiar tattooed hand pulled her into the dimly lit room.

“Rowan! What are you–.” The rest of her sentence was muffled by a hand over her mouth.

“Shhhh! You’ll give us away!”

Aelin went to bite his fingers, still over her mouth, but Rowan always had a mind for exactly what she was thinking. He pulled his hand away just in time, glaring at her slightly.

“And what, pray tell, am I giving away exactly?” Aelin tried to school a bored tone to her voice but amusement still leaked through.

“Alma and I are playing hide and seek. I’m hiding, she’s seeking.”

“Rowan, you’re playing against a three year old. She’s never going to find you if you’re hiding in here with the door closed.”

Rowan rolled his eyes. “She will. Our daughter is very smart. She has the mind of a future queen.”

Now it was Aelin’s turn to roll her eyes. “Okay, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. She’s three.” Even if Aelin was half-joking (her daughter was, indeed, very smart in her opinion), she couldn’t help but get caught on Rowan’s words: our daughter. Even years after the end of the war, after their second wedding, after having a baby together…sometimes it didn’t seem real. That she was here with her family, that she got to have all of this…that she deserved all of this.

Rowan, the perceptive buzzard, was again able to immediately tell where her thoughts went. “This is real, Fireheart.” His hands came up to cup both of her cheeks, the calluses of his palms a grounding comfort against the softness of her cheeks. “We are here. And we are hiding from our daughter, who we get to love every damn day. It’s real.”

Aelin could’ve sobbed. How he knew her so well, she’d never know. But she was certainly grateful for him. “Thanks, Buzzard.” She gently pulled him toward her, placing a gentle peck on his lips, a kiss that was over before it really started. Just as she was about to go back in for a more hearty kiss, the door was yanked open. Aelin pushed herself away from Rowan, as if they were getting caught by a parent for making out in a closet.

“I found you, papa!” Alma was giggling, her blonde curls bouncing up and down with her movements. “And mama! You’re here, too! I’s found you!”

Aelin swooped down to her little menace, picking her up and snuggling her in her arms. “You found us, little sunshine.”

A feline smile crossed over Alma’s features, looking a little too similar to Aelin’s own expressions. “I fink you guys were kissin’ in here.” Alma put her hands over her mouth and snickered.

Aelin glanced to Rowan, who was already looking back at her with eyebrows raised. “And who told you that?”

“Uncle Moon!” Aelin couldn’t help her chuckle at her child’s nickname for Fenrys. Alma heard him use his full name once and never let it go. “Uncle Fen” was less common than “Uncle Moon,” or “Moon Moon.”

“Well what if we were kissing in here? Huh, sunshine? What then?”

Alma crinkled her little nose, “YUCK! Mama and Papa no kiss!”

Aelin could feel her face mirroring Alma’s earlier expression. “And what if we give kisses to….” Aelin made a good show of thinking about her next words. “...ALMA!” At her words, Aelin peppered kisses all over Alma’s face, Rowan joining in from her other side. Her daughter’s sweet giggles would never get old. The girl didn’t calm down until they all emerged from the closet. Aelin’s cheeks hurt from smiling so hard.

As they made their way back to their rooms, Alma gasped and looked right into Aelin’s eyes. “Mama, ice cream?”

“Hmm…I’m not sure. It’s pretty late already. Someone has to go to bed soon.”

Alma pouted slightly, her lip doing its job well. Aelin was about to give in when the little stinker turned her pout on her father. As their matching green eyes met, Rowan took one look at the pouty lip and was done for.

Aelin laughed as her husband sighed. “Fine, we can go get some ice cream.”

Alma bounced up and down, trying to escape Aelin’s grasp. She ran ahead of her parents, who just shared a look of both happiness and knowing they both had been played by a three year old. She wouldn’t have it any other way.

Tagging:

@cretaceous-therapod @morganofthewildfire @tomtenadia @live-the-fangirl-life @charlizeed @violet-mermaid7 @euphoric-melancholyy @kritical24 @rubyriveraqueen @dealfea @wellofnothing @ayaashryver @moonknight-spector @leiawritesstories @whoever-you-choose-to-love @holdthefrickup @heirofflowers @thecrispypotatochip @shanias-world @rowanaelinn @bruiseonthefaceofhumanity @hanging-from-a-cliff @fantacysoup @swankii-art-teacher @thegreyj @fromthelibraryofemilyj @westofmoon @lovely-dove-zee @books4eva04 @cookiemonsterwholovesbooks @mariaofdoranelle @dreamer-133 @elentiyawhitethorn @writtenonreceipts @shyvioletcat @aelinchocolatelover @captain-of-the-gwynriel-ship @athena127 @tothestarsandwhateverend @highqueenofelfhame

[sofasoap]

Love at first sight - Epilogue

Pairing: Rodolfo “Rudy” Parra x F!reader ( aka Mini MacTavish)

Summary: Two love birds finally got together. To the relief of everyone.

Part I, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4,Part 5,Part 6

Warning: E Rating. Smutty smut. inaccuracies to medical and military related. discussion of injury.

A/N: @siilvan , thank you for being a wonderful Beta-reader *hug* @jynxmirage for giving me daily encouragements of sending me picture of delicious Bayardo De Murguia to keep me going :) Thanks to @okayyadriana  and @saltofmercury helping me with Spanish words :) if there are any mistakes. Please blame me not them.

“masterlist” 

You stayed on with the Los Vaqueros In Las Almas after Rudy was cleared to be discharged from the hospital. 

Approaching Price a few days after in private, you were nervous as you put in a request to stay on for a bit longer while the rest of the team moved on to another mission back in Europe soon.

“I know this is a very selfish request, Captain..” You look down at your boot, feeling guilty abandoning your team while they need you. But you can’t walk away from him this time. Rudy still needs you to look after him, or so you try to justify it. More like you need him to heal your guilty conscience. 

Price observed you in silence for a few minutes, brows furrowed. At last he jerks his head towards the outside, indicating to you to follow him. 

The sun is slowly setting, a few soldiers returning from their patrols and training. Everything seems so tranquil and peaceful compared to the near death mission the squad was sent to a few weeks ago.

Taking out a cigar he stashed away in his vest pocket, he lit it up, and took a slow drag before turning to you.

“You've been burying yourself in work non-stop for the last few months Mini. Is this why?” He didn’t point out what exactly he was asking about.

But, you know what he is implying. 

Kicking a bit of dirt on the ground and swiping the little gravel away for no reason, you let out a little grunt, acknowledging his question. 

“Stay as long as you want. You have trained your team well, Dr. MacTavish.” He chuckled as you pouted like a child, he knows you don’t like to address you with the title. “I’m sure they can handle the boys without you.” He pats you on the shoulder. “Take a good break, but I don’t know how much rest you are going to have fussing over him.” 

“I’ll try to behave…” You replied sincerely, finally feeling a bit of weight lift off your shoulders. “Thank you, Captain. It means a lot to me.”

Patting you on the shoulder with a fatherly smile, “Go chase your happiness, Mini. You deserve it.” 

Leaning back against the wall, you close your eyes and listen to the faint sound of music and singing that could be heard from the mess hall from a distance away, as the Task force and Los Vaqueros soldiers celebrate another successful mission under their belt after months of hard work. 

A shadow appears in front of you. Looking up, you saw Rudy standing in front of you, eyebrows raised, silently asking for permission. 

Patting the ground beside you and inviting him to sit down, you share the brief silence. 

This is probably the only time the two of you have spent time alone in the last few months, without anyone else hovering about. 

To Rudy’s dismay, Alejandro forced his second in command to take an extensive break after his return from hospital.

“Rest. You nearly died in my arms, hermano. I am sure your mother will be happy to have you at home for more than one day in a few weeks.” He commented. Alejandro turned towards you and patted you on the shoulder, “I’ll get Dr. MacTavish here to check up on you, so don’t you worry about your injury.” 

Mama Parra was ecstatic to see you return along with her son. You were quite touched by how the whole family welcomed your return. Camila gave you a knowing look after giving you a hug.

“Thank you for saving my brother. And, please, look after him from now on.” 

The tender look he gives you everytime you go over to change his bandages, and the desire he couldn’t keep hidden sipping through when you glide your hands, deliberately across his well defined ab. You linger your hand around his pelvis area, boldly caressing the slight bit of hair showing above his pants. Oh how his eyes darken as you flash him a sly smile, teasing him. 

If only he wasn’t still recovering from his near fatal wound. If only there weren’t people always out and about in the house.

Both of you would have given in to the desire, right there and then. 

But his mother would always poke her head into the room every time, fussing about and pulling you out to feed you with delicious meals, trying to show you the family photos, and with your rudimentary understanding of Spanish language, along with Rudy and Camila’s translation, Mama Parra loved telling you all the family history and childhood stories of Rudy and his siblings, and all the havoc him and Alejandro caused when they were young. 

You often catch Alejandro looking at the two of you, rolling his eyes while shaking his head, exasperated that the two of you are behaving like love sick puppies yet again. 

“Are you two going to make a move on each other or not?” Alejandro asked you once, when you were dropping off the health assessment reports in his office. “You know there is a betting pool happening amongst the team to see when…”

You ran out of the office in a flash, not even waiting for his sentence to finish, utterly mortified. 

Rudy breaks the silence first as he softly calls out your name. Turning slightly to face him.

“Cariño. Mi vida.” The tips of your ears burn as he addresses you in such an intimate manner. How would it feel if he called out like that when he was buried inside you…? “What are you thinking?” He whispered, his beautiful brown orbs filled with sadness. “Are you… are you thinking of leaving again?” Your heart clenched with pain as he looked at you with the same nervousness and distress you saw the night at the hospital.  You realise the two of you haven’t sat down and discussed the future, where to move on from here. No wonder the poor man is feeling so insecure. 

“Oh love.. no.. no don’t think that.” Gently cupping his face, you pull him down towards you to lean against his forehead. “I am not leaving you. Ever again. No matter what happens. I am sorry I haven’t been clearer.” You apologised as you leaned close to give him a gentle kiss on the cheek. “...well, barring from getting sent out for missions…” You added hastily. 

You feel tension dissipate from him as you give him your words of reassurance. Taking one of his hands, you put it over your heart.

“This will be yours from now on. And this,” You put your hand over his rapid beating heart, “I hope I have the honour for this to be mine.” You drop down to a whisper, suddenly timid. 

“From the moment I laid my eyes on you, I had already devoted my heart to you. I never expected you to return my feelings. I was happy to watch you from afar, assist you whenever I could; seeing that bright smile appear on your face is all that matters to me. I never expected anything in return.”

You were taken aback by his comment. You knew he had feelings for you quite early on, but from the moment you arrived at Las Almas? You didn’t quite expect that. Silently pining for you, doing what he does the best, assisting you in the background. You realise everytime the medical team has requested something, it would be done right away in the next few days. You got a complaint? Rudy would sort it out straight away. 

“All done, as per your request.” You remember his soft smile and his shyness everytime he reported back to you. 

It was all for you. 

“Rudy… oh, Rudy…” You lamented. The guilt is hitting you again.You couldn’t stop the tears streaming down your face now. “I am so sorry… so sorry…”

“Cariño, it’s not your fault. You did what you thought was right at the time, and I don’t blame you for that.” He pulls you into his embrace, kissing you lightly on your head. “I admit, I was quite heartbroken, but I do understand. Duty over heart. And the distance would have made it hard.” Closing his eyes, he chuckled slightly. “I buried myself in work, trying to put it all behind me. That accidental phone call? It reignited my hope. Brought back the ache again.” 

Resting your head in the crook of his neck, you enjoy the closeness, his scent, as he lightly rocks you back and forth to the music in the distance, slowly processing his words. 

“I love you, mi vida. I love you so much.” He whispered into your ears. “You are so beautiful. So strong, so fierce, so loyal…” He pulled himself away slightly to face you as he took in a deep breath.

“Would it be too much to ask, for you to be mine?” He pleaded, desperately searching for an answer in your eyes. 

You wrap your arms around his neck with a soft smile, “You already have my heart,” You whispered as you tipped your head up to give him a gentle kiss on his lips. “And you have my permission to take my body as yours, too.” 

With that reply, he leaned down towards you for another kiss, pouring all his emotion and heart into it. You can feel both of your bodies heating up as you nudge his lips open with your tongue, teasing him.

Abruptly, he pulls you away, panting, and jerks his head towards the main building. “My room. Not here.” That was all he could get out with his mind semi-frazzled from the kiss. You nodded your head frantically as both of you made your way towards the said destination.

As the two of you passed through the mess hall towards the officer’s quarters, you thought you saw Alejandro’s quick wave and smirk. Must be your imagination?

You couldn’t help but circle your arm around his waist as he shakily tried to open the door to his resting quarters. Hands meander around his body, teasing him a little, feeling his broad muscles, his back, and coming to a stop as you palm his semi hard package underneath his trousers. As soon as the door opens, he turns around and pulls you in, and kicks the door closed. You pull him down by his collar for another kiss, desperate to show him how much you want him, to soothe his worries and doubt. 

You push him to sit down on the bed, both of you still catching your breath from the heated kiss and dash.

“Please, mi amor… please, show me how you like it. Where you want me to touch…” He looks up at you, hands roaming up and down your body, voice dropping into a husky and lustful whisper.

You lower yourself to straddle him, feeling his hardness through the fabric. Rolling your hips slightly, you hear his breath catching slightly, holding back a groan. 

You move one of his hands to grab your ass, and the other to slide under your top, towards your breast. “Anywhere you like, love,” You swallow thickly, body filled with want. You want him. Anywhere. Everywhere. “Just show me what your deft fingers can do.” You purred as you looked at him through half hooded eyes. . 

You always wondered what it would feel like to have his hands on you after seeing him playing the guitar that night. The beautiful nimble fingers gliding up and down the fretboard, plucking away on the strings.

Standing up again to let him have better access to your lower region, he fumbles slightly as he unbuttons your pants and glides in between your pants and underwear. You let out an unrestrained moan as you feel his finger skate over your clit, before it reaches your already soaking opening.

“That’s it, my love..more… I want to feel more of you there…” You gasped and demanded as you rolled your hips with his moment. Another finger followed without hesitation, and another, until you feel stretched full of him pumping slowly in and out of you. 

His thumb languidly circles your clit as you dig your nails into his shoulder, back arched and screaming his name, not caring if the whole barracks hears you enjoying the first orgasm your lover has given you.

You look down at him with your watery orbs, breathing still short and fast as you come down from the blissful high he has just given you. He pulled his fingers out of you and slipped them in his mouth.

“I want to taste more of you.” He hummed as he slowly licked his fingers, cleaning up the cum juice you drenched him with. “My mouth against your beautiful soaking wet cunt, making you happy…”

Oh, you have definitely flipped a switch on. Gone is the shy Rudy, now Rodolfo Parra, the same confidence and passion shining through his eyes that you saw from him that night playing his guitar, is requesting to please you once again. Or, is that a thinly veiled demand?

Either way, you welcome the change.

Leaning down to pull him into an open mouthed kiss, you speak against his lips.

“You will have a lot more chances for that later on, my love.” You smirked as you pushed his shoulder, making him fall back onto the bed. You kneel on the bed, legs on each side of his body. “Now, it’s my turn to give you some pleasure, as you have just given me.” You position yourself comfortably sitting on his thighs, before you start to unbutton his shirt. 

Peppering kisses on his chest, your eyes soften as your hand carrases over the healed scar from months ago. That pain in your heart is still as fresh as the day you barely pulled him back from death’s door step.

“Still hurting?” You murmured as you traced your fingers over the most critical spot. “Occasional phantom pain, but I am alright now. Thanks to you.” He reassures you as he runs his hand up and down your arm.

Continuing down his body, your hands shake with excitement like a child opening a present on Christmas day, eager to see what is hiding underneath. 

Your smile broadens as you pull his pants down, his impressive girth finally appearing. You heard him groaning as you gently grabbed his length, pumping it a few times before taking it with your mouth.

Rudy gasps and moans as you work away, teasing him with your tongue, sucking the tip and kneading his balls lightly. He grasps the bed sheet hard as he blabbers away in Spanish, too fast for you to follow. He took you by surprise as he let out an almost half whimper-half sob before you felt the hot cum coating the inside your mouth. You lapped it all up and swallowed keenly as he rode out the rest of his orgasm.

“I… I am sorry, mi amor. I couldn’t hold it in any longer...” He apologised profusely, clearly embarrassed. You climb back up towards him. “I am glad I have that effect on you, Cariño.” You hushed him as you showered him with kisses on his face and patted his chest. 

His eyes glitter as you use the endearment in his mother tongue. “I should feel honoured that I can make you come so quickly. Now,” You stripped the rest of your clothing off. “Show me what you can do with that impressive thing inside me.”

Rudy claimed shyly he isn’t as experienced as you, but oh boy. His attentiveness, his eagerness, how much he wanted to give you a good time, all made up for it. 

His hands couldn’t stop touching you, caressing you as he slowly thrusted in and out of your aching core, stretching it open, making you quiver and moan out no matter what angle and position he went for. As if the two of you were made for each other, meant to be. Your soulmate. 

The two of you finally drifted to sleep, round after round of pleasure and orgasms, with his arm around you, holding you close to his chest. Afraid to let go, afraid for you to disappear again.  

The whole mess hall erupted into cheers and whistles as both you and Rudy walked in, taking both of you by surprise. 

You hid your face in Rudy’s shoulder, abashed by the sudden attention both of you were getting. 

Rudy, calm as always, ignored all the teases as he gently took your hand, which incited another round of cheers as he led you to the back table where Alejandro and your team was sitting at the moment for breakfast. He sat you down first before murmuring into your ear and pressing a soft kiss to your cheek, heading towards the serving area to grab food for both of you.

“I hope you two had a good time last night.” Alejandro smiled as he pushed the jar of sugar towards you. 

“HOW–” You nearly spilled out the coffee that you were pouring into the mug. 

“Why did you think the officer’s quarters were so quiet last night?” Alejandro smirked with a knowing look. 

Blistering hell, he knew. He ordered people to stay away from the sleeping quarters. You wondered why the usually busy hallway was void of people as the two of you dashed towards his bedroom. 

Another soldier sitting across from you laughed. " Ah, don't be so shy. We were all rooting for you and our Sergeant Major. And, you know what they say?? Tell her, mi hermanos, mi hermanas!!"

“Save a horse, ride a Vaquero!” The whole mess hall shouted in unison. 

You just want to dig a hole in the ground and hide.

“...Captain.” You mumbled at Price. “Have you got Nikolai’s contact? Please ask him to take me away from this horrible embarrassment.” You buried your face in your hands. Now how are you going to face all of them?

“Might be a good idea, so we don’t have to hear your screams every night.” Soap mumbled as he took a sip of his coffee. 

OH great, now your brother is talking about your sex life. Something just snapped inside you. Stuff this. If they are so interested in your life, you might as well…. 

Slamming your mug onto the table, you stood up on the bench, whistling to catch everyone’s attention. 

“Since all of you are so interested in our love life, yes, the Sergeant Major and I finally shagged last night.” You heard your brother spitting out his coffee while Ghost thumped his back, Gaz laughing his head off. “And, ladies, his fingers are just as good, if not better than all of you imagined.” Gasps and giggles could be heard amongst the crowd. Out of the corner of your eyes, Rudy froze mid-motion while picking up some toast from the toaster, soldiers around him slapping his back and elbowing him, teasing him. 

“Mini…” You heard Price trying to interject, but you held out your hand towards your captain, stopping him. 

“Last, but not least, I love him, and he is off the market people! Take this as a warning, no one touches MY MAN!” 

Jumping down from your bench, you walk down the aisle between the refectory tables, as if doing a victory walk between the cheering and clapping soldiers, towards Rudy, who’s now blushing from head to toe, hearing your public declaration. 

“There. I think that will stop anyone from gossiping about us.” You stop in front of your lover, as he leans into the crook of your neck, feeling the heat radiating off his skin.

“Ah, querida… What am I going to do with you.” He asked, followed by a sigh.  

“Well, one thing for sure, you aren’t going to get rid of me, because I am going to stick around for quite a long time.” You replied as you wrapped your arm around his torso.

“Good.” He put his plates down to the side and proceeded to lift you up high. “Because you are mine forever, mi hermosa.” 

“... how much did you bet on them?” 

“A hundred pounds, But that’s because I had insider information.” 

“Mierda.” 

Tag list:

@jynxmirage, @kaplerrr, @captainpriceslover,@homicidal-slvt,@floral-force,@a-small-writer-in-a-big-world,@iwannabeinthesequalmrghostface,@okayyadriana,@random-thot-generator,@siilvan,@crazymela,@preciouslittlecreature,@glitterypirateduck,@cumikering,@devcica,@nrdmssgs,@random0lover

@nightingal3-tales, @deakyspuff, @abbeyrjm-blog, @alypink,@liyanahelena, @loppyc

@deadbranch

[agendabymooner]

pag-ibig, traducido (love, translated) || cs55 fic

carlos sainz x ofc (filipino!content creator!ofc)

EXTENSION TO RIDE HOME

Summary: Magdalena ‘Magda’ and Carlos Sainz can bring the two worlds together through words and actions. OR, moments in which the Filipino woman and her Spanish husband learned to love each other while learning more about what they know about themselves. 

Content warning: Use of explicit language, shitty Tagalog/Filipino and Spanish translations, a lot of Spanish colonial and Filipino history jokes, parental abandonment, brief reference to religious and cultural practice (weddings), mentions elopement, secret marriage, briefly mentions PR relationships/girlfriends, time skipping, what is beta reading lol

Note: The last part of this story is loosely based on the idea given to me by @clairalle and the song 'Paninindigan Kita' by Ben&Ben so thank you so much! ❤️

Letting you all know that some Filipino dialogue here are translated based on how I know it in both English and Tagalog language??? And also, there are some words in here that are the same in context BUT written in two different spellings - some of the words are spelled based on phonics or how it sounds. Enjoy xx

masterlist

i. 2016 — shit, ayos ka lang?

Ramona Magdalena normally had the patience for Tesco. She wasn’t sure what it was, but everything had her seething with no apparent reason. She tried to figure out what went wrong. 

It was only 3 p.m., for goodness sake! 

Her third year at the university was supposed to make things easier, but the way she clenched at the handle of her shopping cart as she sped through the aisles of Tesco showed nothing of the sort. 

She was so tense, her jaw clenching as she asked herself repeatedly if there was an actual reason for her getting worked up over something. 

Her mother, Alma, was being herself; she was merely calling to see how the university was for Magda. Alma only told Magda about her cousins in the Philippines and how they were looking forward to getting the “balikbayan” box in August, only for the younger woman to respond grumpily. Alma was a dear— so clearly Magda’s grumpiness had nothing to do with her mother’s daily check-in. 

She appreciated her mother’s efforts to keep up with Magda’s well-being; after all, Alma did everything she could as a single parent who immigrated to the UK long before she took Magda. 

So no. She loved her mother so much that she wouldn’t get unreasonably cranky towards her. Not easily, at least. 

But her questions withered away when her speed walking was interrupted by her shopping cart crashing into a figure. Her eyes widened, and she shook herself out of her thoughts. 

“Mierda!” Shit! An accent escaped out of the man’s mouth. 

Now, Magda had been a citizen of the UK for a while now— she knew when to speak English and how to utilize her vocabulary in a reasonable manner. But everything seemed to be in panic mode as she exclaimed, “Shit! Ayos ka lang?” Are you okay?

The man was still groaning, bent over as he clutched to his stomach. He glared at her for a moment as he asked, “¿Por qué no observas a dónde vas?” Why can’t you watch where you are going?

“Hah?” She cocked her head slightly. She only picked up on the first two words. Por qué? Why? 

He’s Spanish, Magda deduced. She stepped away from the cart and walked towards him, “I’m so, so, so sorry! I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going—“

“Obviously—“ he muttered hastily, still touching his aching side. 

“I’m also in a rush, and I’m so frustrated and tired. Three years into adulthood and I can’t make shit right,” Magda hadn’t even realized that she was ranting to a stranger as she rambled, “GCSE clearly didn’t do shit to me because I’m still here bitching about what to cook— punyeta naman kasi, ‘di ba.” What the fuck, am I right?

He stared at her for a moment, not even interrupting her as she spoke. But the silence made Magda pause as her face flushed red, earning a soft smirk from the man. “Mama said I have a problem with speaking too much without thinking.” 

He chuckled at her rambling before sticking his hand out, “We can call it… truce— I think is the word?” 

“Yeah, okay, truce,” she reached out and introduced herself while shaking his hand, “I’m Magdalena.” 

“I’m Carlos.” 

“So, like… you’re Spanish, right? Or do you just speak Español? I’ve only picked up on some words because they’re quite similar— or I suppose I learned it through some song from years ago.” 

“I am actually Spanish; good guess. And you said puñeta— I can assume you also speak Español?” 

“Oh, hah, about that— no. That’s not spoken in Spanish. That’s— yeah, that’s something.” 

ii. 2017 — irog means love

“Ate Magda! Totoo ba?” Is it true?

“Jowa mo galing Spain?” Your boyfriend is from Spain? 

Magda almost died laughing as she FaceTimed her cousins, who were certainly supposed to be asleep at this time. The Philippines was seven hours ahead, and with her cousins being awake at two in the morning, she could assume that they had a holiday. Everybody always sleeps in if it’s a long weekend or a national holiday. 

But she hadn’t expected their night to be spent gossiping about Magdalena’s boyfriend, Carlos. 

“Niño, bakit ‘di mo gamitin yang utak mo sa school kaysa sa jowa ko?” Why don’t you use your brain for school instead of my boyfriend? Magda huffed out her laugh, making her other cousin Paloma laugh next to Niño. Paloma’s laughter caught Magda off guard as she called out, “Oi, Lomi, don’t be laughing— ikaw ang nagpasimuno nito. Akala mo ‘di ko alam?” You started this. You think I didn’t know?

“Papa brought it up,” Paloma defended herself with a cry, “he kept calling you a national hero, and I had to ask why.” 

“Ano ba naman ‘yan,” what the hell. Magdalena cried out as her head slumped against the couch, raising it to look at her cousins on the screen, “Tell your papa to keep his mouth shut. I love Tito Gerry— I do, but he needs to stop making jokes about that.” 

“—About what?” Magda seemed to be more drawn towards her uncle’s joke that she hadn’t heard her boyfriend enter her flat with a curious look. He had just arrived from Milton Keynes, and this was a surprise as he normally arrived later than this. 

Carlos had taken off his shoes and placed his bag down, walking around the couch to sit next to Magda as he pecked her lips. “Hello, cariño. How was your day?” 

“Hm, good! I’ve finished my paper,” Magda grinned. 

They were so caught up with each other that the only thing they heard was gagging from the phone that the Filipino woman held. Magda and Carlos peered down on the screen as they watched the two teens exaggerate at the sight of the couple being too sweet for each other. 

“Reparations,” Paloma gagged jokingly, “but at what cost?” 

“Matulog na nga kayo!” Go to sleep! Magda exclaimed.

“Okay po, master,” Niño rolled his eyes before waving at the camera, “nice meeting you, Carlitos!” 

"You're Niño, right?" Carlos grinned as he kept his face in front of the camera before waving, "Nice meeting you too!"

“Yeah! Buenas noches, Don Carlos!” Good night, sir Carlos! Paloma giggled, the other side of the call abruptly ending before Magda could berate the pair even further.

She sighed heavily and tossed her phone aside, giving her boyfriend a look of despair as he giggled at her. 

“What did they mean by reparations?” He asked her, genuinely curious at what they were joking about. 

How was she going to explain it to him? Did they even teach at Spanish schools about their country’s history of colonialism? Magda didn’t have an answer to that. 

“Oh, just you know…” She mumbled, “Filipinos were originally Spanish people living in the Philippines. Apparently, dating you made us a deadly combination. Enemies to lovers, or whatever trope that is.”

“Reparations? Oh… OH!” Carlos exclaimed in realization, earning a nod from his girlfriend as he murmured, “Okay.” 

“Okay?” 

“Yeah, I understand now, mi corazon.” 

“Irog,” Carlos said aloud, making Magda hum in a questioning tone. “Irog, bébé.”

“What’s that, bé?” Magda asked mindlessly as she stared at the screen of her computer. 

Carlos turned his head in her direction as he said, “I don’t know. You’re the one who speaks the language.” 

She paused from doing her work, looking up at him before she pondered the first word he brought up. Then she let out an ‘ah’ before nodding. 

“So…? What does that mean?” Carlos asked. One year of relationship and his thirst for knowledge was an obvious factor that came with it.

“It means mahal,” Magda answered, remembering the word. She continued to read Filipino literature as she grew, not wanting to stay away from it regardless of the fact that she spent her last school years in a British school. She asked her mother questions whenever she didn’t have a single clue what a word meant, so this was a helpful thing to do, especially now that Carlos continued to ask her to teach him how to speak her language. 

“Mahal, like expensive?” Carlos asked for clarification. 

Magda shook her head, “No, not that mahal. Like mahal— you, mahal.” 

“Oh,” Carlos let out before he reiterated what she said, “mahal, like love?” 

“Yes, mahal,” she snickered quietly, calling him by the term of endearment. “Like love.” 

“So irog means love?” 

“Yes, bébé. Irog means love.”

iii. 2018 — patata, patatas. what’s the difference? 

“Oh! Hey, Mr. Alonso, you’re here just in time,” Magdalena grinned. The older man, who just arrived, shot her a confused look as she stood there with her lips spread out to a grin.

“Magda, hija, call me Fernando. It’s also nine in the morning,” Fernando Alonso sighed quietly, his hand running through his face as he looked back at the girl in the white McLaren shirt. “I think it’s too early for your optimism.” 

“You’re right,” Magda’s shoulders slumped, and her smile fell, her face showing nothing but defeat as she walked towards the Spaniard, “but don’t let my sadness get in the way of your duties today. My supervisor said that you have to do your filming for the next two videos of the channel— and you cannot, I mean CANNOT, back out this time.” 

“I can’t,” Fernando smirked playfully, “or can I?” 

“Mr. Alonso, with all due respect,” Magda sighed heavily, “I started this year. And if you continue to ditch your duties because I cannot convince you enough then I’m going to have to leave not of my own will. I did not last four years at the university just so I can have a manchild act so sassily at the person who’s merely trying her best, so please—“

“Calmaté, Magdalena. Are you okay?” Calm down. Fernando asked, reiterating his question and emphasizing the word you. 

Magda had anything but an answer; her lips pursed as she shook her head. “Can I… shit. Sorry, can I be excused for a moment? It's been a morning for me.” 

“Take all the time you need, querida,” Fernando told her with a smile, patting her on the shoulder as she gave him a grateful look before she walked out of the McLaren garage with a heave of sigh. 

Fernando Alonso pursed his lips as he caught sight of the young British reserved driver, calling him with a whistle as Lando Norris looked in his direction with a questioning expression.

“Norris, you know Carlos Sainz, yes?” Fernando asked.

“Uh, yeah,” Lando replied with a nod. “He’s a friend of mine.”

“Do me a favour, if you don’t mind,” Fernando requested, “will you please tell him Magdalena’s on break?” 

“Yeah, of course,” Lando obliged before his curiosity got the best of him as he asked, “Is she alright?” 

“I think McLaren broke her.”

“Leche,” she swore quietly as she stood behind the McLaren motorhome. Thankfully, nobody else was there to witness her on the verge of breaking down. Otherwise, that would have been embarrassing. 

She had a bad habit of pleasing people. Living in the Philippines, with her mother working overseas and her biological father being a dickhead fuck knew where Magdalena grew up wanting to appease her friends and family. Her immediate family cared very little about the achievements she reached — they were proud, sure, but how she got there was beyond what they wanted for her.

Some kids who grew up in a Filipino household aimed to please, and Magda wasn’t an exception to that. She, however, did more than what she should have been doing. All thanks to the father she had never interacted with before or ever.

Much like now. She aimed to please. Maybe that was why she got to this predicament now; crouching with her head down as she tried to keep her composure. 

She knew that everyone would kill to be in her place— working for a racing team. But for some reason, her urge to please was replaced by her fear of discomfort and disappointment. Being in a relationship with a Formula One driver taught her a lot about the sport, and she landed herself a job in a team based in England.

Being able to travel with him was a plus, but she felt that she had disappointed him. She didn’t feel as good as he told her she would when she first announced McLaren’s offer to hire her for the season. 

Was this what most Formula One wives and partners felt? Or have they embraced that lifestyle long before the drivers became so popular? She wouldn’t make a good girlfriend for everyone should they find out that she had nothing but anxiety in her system as she graced the grid with her presence. 

She was a disappointment of a Carlos Sainz fan.

His cologne lingered in the air as she witnessed him crouch down in her level, his fingers pulling her hair tie off her head, letting her long dark brown hair fall as she smiled grimly. 

He was in his Renault fireproof, his race suit hanging off his waist. He made things more angelic than normal, and she loved him so much for it. His lips pursed as his fingers continued to massage her scalp. 

“Few more months, mi vida,” Carlos murmured, his soothing voice making her feel at home. “You’re doing so good for them. Don’t let them say otherwise.” 

Sure, she could be at the hotel with Ben&Ben blasting on her phone and her figure crying in the bathtub. She could be falling into the deepest depth of her sadness, but with Carlos ditching his team before the free practice — she would rather be here than be in their shared hotel room. 

“Now c’mon, mi corazon,” he pulled her up, “I’ve managed to get my manager to come drop off some pancit to the motorhome from the hospitality.”

“Pancit?” 

“Malabon,” Carlos beamed at her, pressing his lips to her forehead. “One of the caterers gladly took my request to have some pancit malabon at the menu. It took them a couple of weeks until they finally got tired of my constant asking.”

“Hm, you’re the best, my love,” Magda told him lovingly. “Though, I prefer palabok, remember?” 

“Eh,” Carlos paused, “patata, patatas. What’s the difference? Pancit is pancit, mi amor.”

iv. 2019 — magda, maldita 

“Carlos, bebe, mahal kita. Mahal kita sobra.” I love you. I love you so much. Magda sighed as she glanced over the notepad that her fiancé left on the end table of the side of her bed— their brainstorming notepad. “But do you really want to get married in a church? In the Philippines while you’re at it?” 

“It’s an idea, mi amor,” Carlos said while he continued to do whatever he was doing in the bathroom, making her listen from the bed as he spoke, “Just how bad is it?” 

“It’s nothing bad,” Magda said quietly, “it’s just something that I wouldn’t personally do. There is a lot of paperwork to do when getting married in a church. Did you know that? Not only that, but we’d have to attend seminars about family planning— which is not right up my alley, seeing as my mother is an unmarried single mother.” 

“Paperwork is what you are worried about?” 

“Why can’t we just elope instead? My Lola grandmother and Lolo grandfather did that, and look— they have my mom, my tito uncle and tita aunt,” she suggested out of the blue. 

“And risk getting killed by either of our mothers?” Carlos scoffed, “I think we should stick to the church idea, yes, mi amor?” 

“Did you not hear the story of my grandparents, love?” Magda asked him, thankful that he couldn’t see the baffled look on her face. 

“More than I can count, mi corazon,” Carlos answered, “they ran away from home, didn’t they? Got married and had your Tia Maria, then your Mama after? They eloped because they weren’t close with their families— but we’re both very close to ours. We can’t do what your grandparents did.” 

She sighed. He wasn’t even wrong. 

The Spaniard walked out of the bathroom, his face now clean-shaven as he sat next to his fiancée. “Look, we don’t have to do the church thing. It was just an idea, hm? I know you don’t want to get married in the Philippines either, so that’s alright. We’ll just send your cousins, your aunt and uncle to wherever we’re going, then we’ll get married. Don’t worry too much.” 

“‘M sorry,” Magda murmured, her fingers fidgeting with the gold engagement ring as she continued, “I’m a killjoy.” 

“No, you’re not,” Carlos huffed out and clasped his hand with her left hand, “you’re the bride. The bride is more than permitted to weigh out the options. If you don’t want the Philippines, that’s okay.

“Truthfully, I just want to marry you,” Carlos murmured as he pulled her closer, “if we didn’t have such scary mothers, I would’ve already married you. You and your YouTube channel.” 

Magda’s chuckle vibrated in his chest as she perched on his lap, “I don’t even know if that will even work out.” 

“I am sure the wedding plans will. If it doesn’t, our marriage certainly will work out for you and your channel.”

“You are a dickhead, mahal.” “I can’t speak the truth now?” 

“There was no need to bring up the channel, dumbass.”

“Mabuti nalang may passport yung mga pinsan mo,” It’s a good thing that your cousins have passports. Alma San Pedro, Magdalena’s mother, brought up as she sat across the aforementioned woman.

Magda skimmed through the spreadsheet laid out on her laptop’s screen, keeping her eyes on the things Carlos typed out on the guest list as he actively listed who’s responsible for the catering.

Alma continued to speak, “Why didn’t you want to get married in the Philippines? You’ve always wanted to get married in the Tayabas basilica— I could have had your Tita Marie look into it.”

“That was mainly because I thought you got married there,” Magda glanced at her mother before leaving a comment on the name that Carlos had just typed down on the guest list sheet.

“Lando Norris” — Magda San Pedro (monamagsp) commented: “He finally RSVP’d?”

Carlos Sainz (carlossz) replied: “Yes. He said he forgot to do it, but I managed to get him to fill it.”

He was still at Monaco for the race, but between the busy days of partying and racing he decided to abandon his friends and stayed at the hotel to plan his wedding with Magda instead. “Besides, Ma, the wedding’s in two months. Travelling is also time-consuming for most of us.”

“You’re so picky, anak,” child. Alma replied with a playful scoff.

“And you’re not married, Mama,” Magda shot back with the same amount of humour in her tone. “People complain about both, but we can’t find ourselves to care, hm?”

“Hay nako, Ramona Magdalena,” Alma rolled her eyes and sighed exasperatedly. A rhetorical question escaped her mouth, “Bakit ka kaya maldita?” Why are you so cheeky/sassy? 

Mona shrugged, “Tita Maria didn’t take any shit from my private school teachers, Ma. She’s the one who took care of me while you worked here, remember? Go figures.”

“I can’t believe you’ve invited me to the wedding,” Lando’s eyes glimmered under the warm light of the ballroom hall as he excitedly spoke to Magda. “I know we didn’t speak as much last year, but the fact that you allowed Carlos to invite me? I’m so grateful, mate.”

Magdalena San Pedro— or wait, Magdalena Sainz stood across from the British man with a grin as she tucked her hands into her pockets (she had pockets on her wedding dress that she began to think that God was treating her right today).

The San Pedro-Sainz wedding ceremony took place in the Westin Palace of Madrid. With the hopes of celebrating the love that they shared for years, Carlos and Magdalena managed to get through the hour-long ceremony without a fuss. The romantic venue created an environment full of celebration while keeping it as intimate and private as it could be for their guests and themselves.

Carlos had already made his name known to the Formula One world, his talent being recognized by every fan as the season went on. But nobody knew who Magdalena was to him, and he intended to keep it that way — thus prompting him to keep his marriage a piece of confidential information. Everyone behind the scenes knew he was in a relationship, and with the hopes that he’d get even more popular, PR relationships were introduced and tossed in his way. 

None of the women he was put in the spotlight with ever lasted, and he was slowly earning the title of a Casanova. He didn’t care; he was just doing his duty and driving his car around the tracks while he worried about his partner, who now worked for a designing company based in London— where they both lived. Nobody else in the grid nor anyone in the motorsport community knew who he was romantically involved with. 

Magdalena was another story. She only began to record some videos about her lifestyle as she continued to work for some local designing firm, telling whoever was watching her videos about what she knew about this field of work or what kind of food she’d eat on certain occasions.

She wasn’t as popular as him, but she continued to keep his identity a secret. She lived an average life and she was quite content with it. She’d rather post a video of herself fucking around, but they’ve made a choice to stay private for as long as they could. 

Now Lando Norris was known to be a blabbermouth, but Magdalena had grown quite fond of him when he was still a reserved driver for McLaren as she worked as a PR coordinator for the team. They rarely spoke, sure, but she was certain that she could trust him with anything and he wouldn’t blab about it. Carlos was also friends with Lando, and they continued to be close friends, so Magda never protested against Carlos’ idea of inviting the younger man to the wedding. 

Lando then said, “I find it quite enjoyable— your wedding, I mean. It’s clearly not as big as I would have expected because well… Carlos told me that Filipino weddings are often big, but I love it! I’ve learned more about your wedding traditions than I have in sixth form about geography.”

“Gah, don’t even say that,” Magda rolled her eyes, earning a giggle from Lando as the woman continued, “It’s barely there, I think. We tried not to pour our hearts out into what they would normally practice in the Philippines or here in Spain. Some Filipino things are here — the food, my dress and my family — but it’s just something superficial, you know?” 

“It’s not even just the wedding that taught me a lot!” Lando exclaimed as he laughed, “Your cousins, Lomi, Niño and Lucia? Yeah, I sat with them during the whole ceremony so they kept telling me about wedding traditions and some superstitions: like how you shouldn’t have any relative marry at the same time as you because it’s cursed.” 

“Really? I’m surprised they haven’t said anything mundane,” Magda saw Lando nod at her statement.

“They also started to say that you took one for the team—“ Lando’s forehead creased as he said, “I asked them what they meant by that, then they only said you’re heroic.” 

“Diyos ko.” My god. Magda scoffed. Her cousins spelled nothing but trouble and god did she despise them at times. 

“What? What did that mean, Mags?” Lando asked.

Magda sighed exasperatedly, and with a defeated tone, she answered, “Making up for the challenge we’ve lost, apparently.” 

“Huh?” 

“It’s— just ask Carlitos,” Magda waved off, “I’ve had to explain the concept of colonialism to too many people before. I think it’s time Carlos did it for me.”

v. 2024 — paninindigan kita (stand by you)

Mamahalin kita buong-buo. I will love you completely.

“So, tell us about yourself.”

“I’m Carlos Sainz— or wait, do you want me to speak Tagalog?” The Ferrari driver asked as he stood in front of the camera, his linen shirt in the view of the lens as he waited to be instructed.

“Directing this music video is the dumbest idea I could’ve ever made,” Magda deadpanned from behind the camera as the videography crew laughed alongside the band members, her voice being picked up by the microphone easily.

Their Philippines trip, which they should’ve made a while ago, was something of an experience for the couple.

It was the first time they’d been seen in public— with everyone finding out about their marriage after Carlos’ Instagram story slip-up when he accidentally posted a photo of Magdalena’s selfie that she sent when she travelled to the country long before this. 

It really was an accident if you were to ask him. But it was something inevitable, and all Magda could do was laugh and make her presence known not only to her fans but to those who were more than interested to know about her. His fans. 

Now, they were in an Airbnb somewhere in the Quezon Province as they filmed some form of documentary. It was meant to be a storytelling music video about their relationship and the romance that came with it, but after seeing Carlos’ script reading at the Shell commercial, Magda practically banned him from acting.

She was a popular content creator in the Philippines regardless of her living situation; she lived in Madrid with her husband for almost five years. And with her popularity in the Philippines came acquaintances who were more than willing to collaborate with her. The folk-pop band called Ben&Ben asked if she was more than willing to shoot a music video with them. Direct it, even. 

The song they released practically spoke about her life with Carlos. At first, she didn’t think too much of the lyrics and just enjoyed the rhythm of the song, then she realized how similar it was to their relationship, from the courtship (and her outward refusal to continue this romance with him at the very beginning) to their vows to love each other as they grow old, and decided that perhaps it was time to show to the world how they truly love each other. 

Carlos agreed, knowing that outside of his life as a Ferrari driver and a Formula One figure, he had nothing else in life but her and her alone. He knew that she was the one thing that he kept from everyone to provide security for his wife. He waited patiently for her — and it was now paying off. Now, he was standing in front of a camera, waiting to be filmed for his interview. 

It was better than the countless documentaries and the Netflix series that he had to do interviews and filming duties for. Because this time, he got to discuss his wife, Magdalena Sainz, instead of his car. 

“Can I speak Tagalog?” Carlos repeated, his typical confused expression being displayed before the others.

Magda shook her head, “You’ll butcher it, Carlitos.”

“Excuse me, Ramona,” Carlos gasped in mock offence. “I can speak it!” 

“Clearly not good enough,” Magda shot back, making the others laugh at the banter between the pair. 

“Your Español isn’t any better then, mi vida,” Carlos scoffed, placing his hand on his chest. 

Magda said, “There’s a reason why I only listen to you and your family when you speak, honey.” 

“This is what I have to deal with every day, by the way,” Carlos pointed out to their audience, making the others burst out laughing as he offered his wife a playful glare. 

One of the videographers spoke before Magda could make a comeback, “Wait, the camera’s still on.”

“Oh shit,” Carlos and Magda both swore before they both laughed. Their banter was caught on camera and they were laughing about it.

It took them good ten seconds to return to their composure as the camera stopped recording. 

Magda cleared her throat, clapping her hands as the camera began recording, and she instructed her husband, “Carlos, we can both speak English— it’s fine. Just speak in English, alright?” 

“Okay, fine,” Carlos rolled his eyes and muttered, “mi esposa. Muy quisquilloso.” My wife. So picky. The microphone attached to his shirt picked up on his comment.

“This is so going to the music video,” one of the band members giggled. 

Magda then continued with the recording segment as she spoke to her husband while she stood behind the camera, “Alright, please state your name and how long you have been with your partner?” 

Carlos nodded and beamed slightly as he stared back at Magda, who was smiling as she expected his answer. With a cheerful tone, he said, “My name is Carlos Sainz. I have been with my wife, Magdalena San Pedro Sainz, for seven years and three months and have been married to her for four years and six months.” 

“What prompted you to stand by her?” Magda asked as she continued to beam at him, not even noticing the heart eyes of the other people in the room. 

Eight years and still extremely in love. 

He answered, “Her determination, wits and her ability to stand by me no matter what kind of disaster came and went made me realize that falling in love with her was worth the effort to make.”

It was no wonder people thought their relationship had nothing to do with two worlds colliding.

Even with their constant light bickering, Magdalena and Carlos Sainz learned how to love each other through words — whether it was their native languages or their secondary ones. What mattered was that they understood the meaning of their love, regardless of what kind of language they had to translate it to.

fin.

[cloveroctobers]

HOME | SERVING 2 of 2 — JJ MAYBANK [Fall Randoms] 🤎

A/N: Part one is here! + I finally let out a good cry last night before finishing this up so there's that. It's been awhile since losing a character had an effect on me and that YouTube video on the cast saying their goodbyes did NOT help. Anyways! The goal was to keep things light and envision that those that have been through so much DO get happy endings. Enjoy and thank you to those that read the first part, I appreciate you.

.𖥔 ݁ �� .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔

Soon everyone gets to work serving themselves, just as Pope and Cleo reveal their late arrival.

“I told Pope, y’all were gettin’ started witout us so we needed to hurry and get in line!” The Caribbean woman yells, tucking her signature blade into the small cross body bag she sported, before hugging Alma, who has her hands full so she opts for tucking her chin into her friend's shoulder in greeting.

JJ turns his eyes into slits at the brown skinned girl while making his way over to Pope to give him a bone crushing hug, “Cleo, if you broke my door—

“As much shit of mine you broke over the years?” Pope stares hard at JJ while defending his unbothered girlfriend, “Can’t even hold a candle, man.”

“Dude, why you bringin’ up old shit?” JJ squeezes Pope’s shoulders with a frown.

Rafe scoffs as he walks on by with his full plate of food already, “That’s rich coming from you, Maybank.”

“That’s strike one, Cameron!” JJ hissed at the no longer buzz haired man’s back.

“The hell is he doing here?” Pope jams a thumb at Rafe who’s strolling through the house looking around as he makes his way to the dining room.

JJ points at a sleek back bun wearing Sarah from across the room, “Ask his sister.”

“J…” Alma warns.

He raised his hands in surrender, “What? Can’t I inform my good friend here what’s going on in the house?”

“If you’re going to keep throwing jabs the entire night, we can step outside.” Sarah comments as she finishes fixing herself and Little J a plate.

JJ scoffs, “I wouldn’t want my godson mad at me, and his view of me is the most important. Which is why, when we get to the games, I’m gonna kick your butt!”

“Oh yeah?” Sarah quizzes as she spins on her heels to face him in her mustard yellow ribbed dress, “Loser owes the other $500 bucks.”

JJ sucks air between his teeth, “That’s boring Pogue princess. I’ve got a better idea! And it involves this estate at night and the basement.”

“Oh god.” Kiara mumbles, putting her last serving of greenery (which was of course the dish she brought over) on her plate and sends Alma a grimace on her way out of the kitchen.

Sarah was the first one to find that the Genrette basement was haunted. She honestly felt like it was a scene out of the conjuring and wanted no parts after spraining her ankle trying to get out of there. JJ didn’t believe her at first until he got locked down there himself and heard a voice that did not sound like Alma’s or Sarah’s. He’s never been a big fan of Halloween and he definitely didn’t want this estate to make him afraid to sleep here. Not when he began to find an actual home in a physical building rather than people.

“Bet.” Sarah holds out her ankle so they can shake on it, since her hands were indeed full.

Groaning Alma hands over a utensil to Cleo after watching the two “shake” on it.

“Aw don’t be like that mama, it’s all in good fun! After all our house is the fun house!” JJ explains, squeezing Alma’s hips while he circled around the kitchen to grab his own plate.

Cleo laughs, “If anybody ends up injured tonight, rude boy, you’re done for!”

JJ tips his imaginary hat, “Thanks for your vote of confidence, ma’am.”

“Aye, I always bet on princess.” Cleo winks while JJ sticks his tongue into his cheek, before peeking at Pope who immediately shakes his head.

“Don’t bring me into your shenanigans.”

“You used to love my shenanigans,” JJ argues, “Don’t tell me the military done officially made you a hardass, Pope!”

Pope snorts, “No. It’s brought me some sense after five years.”

Alma shares a glance with Cleo. Knowing that the only reason Pope decided to enlist was to avoid the fact that he had to kill in order to survive out in Morocco. Hey, people learn how to cope the best way they knew how and Alma was always the last to judge Pope on that. She was the one who ended Groff’s life for trying to take away the love of her life (twice) and no amount of sleep would erase her actions. Or the amount of anger she had in that moment, the stench of blood and that same blood that once decorated her face. The weight of the blade…

It needed to be done.

She couldn’t make herself regret her actions and that was the scary part.

That was something she wouldn’t talk about with JJ (she didn't want to be the one to bring him anymore pain) or even her therapist…she was very vague on that, yet she had no problem talking about it with Pope. JJ felt a way about that but Cleo tried to convince him not to take it personal.

“Sorry, what was that?” JJ cupped one of his ears, “I fell asleep over your preaching.”

“Yeah, what else is new?” Pope snapped his fingers, “Now hand me that spoon for the green beans.”

“Sir yes sir!” JJ saluted.

Finding that there was no real tension between the two, Alma and Cleo let the two be for a moment, heading into the dining room where the rest were seated, which was a good enough signal for John B to hop up and go fix his own plate.

“Sooo…” John B. said to JJ who leaned against one of the counters to bite into a turkey leg, waiting for the two to finish picking their choices for dinner.

Pope felt a small smile playing on his lips, already getting a sense of what his curly haired friend was hinting at, while he moved on to load some Mac-N-Cheese onto his plate, “Have you set a plan in motion on how you’re going to propose yet?”

JJ immediately shushed the now low-cut haired man, flicking his shoulder, “Sheesh! Can you be any louder?!”

“There’s music playing.” Pope shrugged, as he peered at his blue eyed friend.

Which sounded a whole lot like Cleo’s playlist as laughter rung out from the room down from the kitchen.

“Don’t you know by now that women have supersonic hearing?” The blond says through gritted teeth and glanced over his shoulder.

Pope turned his eyes into slits while John B nodded, “That’s not a thing—

“Pope!” Cleo suddenly called from the dining room, “The cranberry sauce is out here on the dining room table. Alma says the ladle is in one of the drawers—well stuck in the drawer. Bring it here, will ya?”

His natural deep tone radiates off the walls, “Okay, baby!”

“Tanks!” Cleo calls back, which made both JJ and John B send him a pointed look.

Pope exhales and holds one hand out in apology, “I’ll try to keep my voice down…but I am curious.”

“Thanks, Darth Vader,” JJ joked while Pope gives him a blank stare, “Anyway! Y’all know I’ve had the ring for months but there have been times when she almost found it.”

“Guess where the idiot hid it the first time?” John B chuckles as he says this.

Pope sticks his fork into the Mac-N-cheese, “Oh I know this is going to be good.”

The blond ran his teeth over his bottom lip, allowing his friends to poke their fun for a little bit.

“Underneath the bed in one of Alma’s empty shoe boxes and guess who walked around with the pouch that had the ring in their mouth?” John B continued inquiring Pope who simply shrugged.

“Don’t say Little J?”

“No! Binx.” John B laughs while JJ rolled his fingers around at the mention of the charcoal gray cat Alma adopted three years ago.

JJ wanted some big ass dog originally and it was still in the works. It only made sense that Alma was a cat girlfriend who wanted a cat. It was the best emotional support animal in Alma’s opinion but JJ actually wouldn’t have minded an iguana or even a hedgehog! The pair often checked on Kiara’s turtle when she went off to New York or D.C. when her parents couldn’t. So the couple knew how to take care of Little J, some pets, and each other but marriage? Felt like an even bigger step, which is why JJ constantly backed out. Finding every excuse in the world to not do it.

Granted they were still young but JJ couldn’t picture anyone else being his wife. It was never a question of him not wanting to do it, it was his own self-doubts of if he was even worthy to have this kind of love. It still felt like a dream most days, when he found his mind wandering off as he gazed at Alma lovingly while she carried on doing something around the home or even when she was just sitting underneath him talking about anything. Even when they got into arguments, JJ wouldn't want to go to bed angry and that said a lot since his temper often got the best of him.

The only pair that were in an official union on paper was Sarah and John B who eloped not long after Lisbon. Of course it was never a competition when it came to all of the relationships, there was nothing but admiration and respect for all, however they all believed that the ones next in line should definitely be JJ and Alma.

It was already secretly voted by the rest.

“Alright, if you two are done cackling like some damn hyenas! We have a dinner to get to.” JJ tells his friends who were in fact sharing a good ‘ol laugh.

John B holds a hand out, “Aw don’t be like that man!”

“I’m not bein’ like nothing. We just got to get this show on the road, ya know?” The blond lets out a wolf whistle with a swirl of his finger.

Pope adds, “Look…whenever you do choose to do it, just know that we always got your back.”

“And Binx. They seem to be the extra push you need to just do it already.” John B joked with a wink which made JJ send him a special middle finger as they all start to leave.

“Wait! The ladle.” JJ tells Pope, who spins back around to enter the kitchen at his instruction, “It’s the drawer on the end by the window, there’s a special trick you gotta—

Pope ends up flinging himself back with the drawer handle now in his hand. The friends look at each other in silence.

“…I’m telling Alma you broke that.”

“Are you forreal?!” Pope yells at his back while JJ nods his head and speeds walks out of the kitchen. .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 The dinner is as peaceful as can be, chatting about what everyone had going on, random topics, and of course old memories. There was even a phone call in from Mr. Heyward who of course invited everyone to spend actual thanksgiving down at their house, if anybody didn’t have any plans. A FaceTime call also came in from Joey who just had to hear about JJ and Sarah’s objective to battle it out with the night games Alma and JJ had planned.

Joey of course betted on JJ.

The games ranged from: Making turkey hands with Little J = Sarah’s team (Sarah, John B, Cleo, and Rafe—who mainly wanted to keep score rather than participate) won that one of course, Dance telephone happened before the drinks = JJ’s team won that (JJ, Alma, Pope, and Kiara), a little break was taken after that until Kiara wanted to film a Cuff it challenge for TikTok, where Cleo had to switch sides for a moment to redeem her team losing but John B argued that wasn’t part of the games and JJ didn’t want to hear any of that, calling him a sore loser which ended up with the two wrestling on the floor and shit-talking, then came the creating the best beverage of the night and guessing who it belonged to, who ever got the most votes for that drink and whatever team they were on got the point.

Rafe, JJ, and Cleo all made the strongest drinks. Sarah made the weakest but sweetest drink, Kiara’s was a sneak up on you kind of drink, John B and Pope’s tasted similar since they used alike ingredients, and Alma pranked them all with her holiday fruit water that she forgot to take out of the fridge, demanding that they needed to be hydrated after indulging in JJ, Rafe, and Cleo’s drink back to back. She was automatically disqualified but she was fine dancing with Little J anyway. It unfortunately didn’t come down to what tasted the best but immediately to which one was going to give them a hangover for days…it came close but ultimately the point went to Sarah’s team.

A few more games were dived into: who could blow out the tea light candles the farthest in one breath, stacking cups the fastest with little J participating in before he was ready to go to bed, which Rafe surprisingly stepped up and said he would do, then came the game of head shoulders knees and toes cup—which is basically Simon says and whichever opponent touches the cup first wins, backstabber karaoke where you have to sing the lyrics correctly without looking at the screen, that included Alma getting a nice serenade of, “Leave The Door Open,” from JJ which funny enough unlocked a memory from their high school years, since Alma still has the biggest crush on Bruno Mars and JJ tried to persuade that he sounded better.

Once it was Alma’s turn and she shared a sip of JJ’s horrible concoction, that gave her more faith to belt a ballad as well from Celine Dion, “The Power of love,” but everyone knew they should have left the vocals to Kie anyway. It was shaky on both teams and some accusing the other of cheating just like the game prior but they gave it to Sarah’s team only because they knew the lyrics better!

The final game was: Drunk jeopardy and it was also pretty close until it was Alma’s choice to pick the last category which was: Random for 500.

Rafe reads the question with his head tilted to the side in puzzlement, after tapping out on the games, “What would you say if JJ asked to marry you?”

Kiara, Sarah, and Cleo all shared a gasp and latched into each other once they realized what was happening. John B was tipsy so he slapped his hands against his face, slowly trying to piece together what was going on right now.

Alma widened her low-lidded eyes, in search of JJ to see what was about to occur. She didn’t peak at any of the questions when this board got delivered to their house earlier this week but she never expected this type of question to be here.

A tap to her thigh, makes her look down to see JJ already down on his knee with his hand held out. Alma doesn’t hesitate placing hers in his warm and slightly sweaty one, which JJ intertwined with his own while holding onto a cream colored pouch.

“Hi, Kit.” That nickname fell softly from JJ’s lips as he addressed his woman.

Alma felt her heartbeat in her ears and she was positive that JJ could probably feel that rhythm radiating through their joined hands. “Hey, JJ babe.”

JJ sniffs as he looks down at their hands briefly, “You have no idea how much I’ve been going back and forth in my mind on when to do this.”

Cleo pauses the music from her phone, while Kiara pulls out her phone to record, and Sarah rushes over to John B to plop into his lap and hold onto him.

“Like John B said…Binx even wanted me to just do it.” JJ looks up at Alma, his eyes already appeared watery as he carries on, “So we’re here, months later, finally finding the nerve to ask you. I’m not the best with words as you know yet my mouth always gets me in trouble.”

“Absolutely.” Kiara comments just to be shushed by Pope who still nods his head in agreement and amusement.

JJ gets rid of his glare the moment he peers over at Alma, “We’ve had a lot of conversations high and not high about what the future looked like and I always struggled not knowing or having any ideas…until you became this permanent force in my life. You make me better, want to be better, and make me see that life is worth so much more than the pessimistic thoughts that like to get the best out of me.”

Alma squeezes his hand in encouragement.

“You had my heart way before you even knew it. I tried to fight it too but when you want something bad enough? You’re real sneaky at getting it.” JJ laughs, with Alma echoing, “You’ve always known what you’ve wanted and even now I’m still in disbelief that you choose me time and time again.”

“Don’t be.” Alma whispers but molds her lips into her mouth, not wanting to interrupt.

JJ continues, “We’ve been through some shit, huh?”

Everyone murmurs.

“Yet we still get to tell the story and you’re a huge piece of it. My joy, my whole entire heart. I’m thankful for you showing me what love is, it can be: tender, kind, unpredictable, to the bone, and wholesome. I like comin’ home to you, ya know? You’re always running around in my head with those damn claws of yours that shockingly haven’t poked my damn eye out. Still they know how to leave their mark, don’t they baby?” He wiggles his brows up at the dark haired woman, whose mouth drops a bit with a laugh as she reaches out to playfully swat at his shoulder.

JJ laughs, “What I’m trying to wrap this up into is…I love you so much and you told me you wouldn’t know what to do without me. You almost had that experience…”

Which makes the room appear solemn for a moment at the horrifying memory. That’s what it was and that’s where they needed to keep it.

“The truth is I barely know what to do without you when we’re only a few hours apart. That lets me know, I need you in my life for eternity and a helluva lot more after that. So…Alma belle Layton, would you make me the luckiest man of all time and be my wife?”

Everyone waited with bated breath but JJ’s stomach was in the form of biggest knots. If he didn’t get an answer soon, he might just let it all go right here…sorry you guys!

JJ managed to pull the ring out from the pouch with one hand and teeth. Alma didn’t even need to see the ring because her blank face quickly split into a wide grin that always reached her eyes.

“Duh,” she finally answers bringing her forehead to JJ’s who finally let his shoulders relax.

Claps and whistles were heard all over the living room, leaving JJ to scramble to his feet, with shaky hands he slips the ring onto Alma’s finger. She bounces on her toes, giggling as she locks her arms over JJ’s shoulders, their noses softly bumped against each other’s as they breathed each other in before connecting their lips.

This kiss felt different, like a whole new promise and the static that tingled their lips only made their smiles wider.

“I love you Jeremiah James Maybank and I won’t let you forget it.” Alma whispers against his lips.

JJ feels his whole chest fill with warmth while he nods, “I think I’m finally starting to get that, buttercup.”

Alma throws herself against him tightly, lightly scratching at his back with her nails as he holds onto the woman of his dreams.

Their hug becomes even fuller as the rest of their friends circle them with hugs of their own.

Alma pulls back to flash the ring, which she didn’t even look at, just thrilled that JJ needed her to be his wife.

“I’m a fiancée, y’all!” Alma models her ring which makes JJ send a dimpled smile her way, and all the guys roughly pull and shake JJ around in a congratulating manner.

“I actually got my Poguey for life. WOOO-HOO! YEAH!” JJ cheers with his fists thrown up in the air.

The three girls had their heads trained down on Alma’s trilliant engagement ring.

“You did nice, pretty boy.” Cleo observes, sending her friend a thumbs up.

Kiara nods as she continues to hold Alma’s hand, “JJ’s always had the most questionable taste in pretty much everything but it’s a blessing to see that he made the right choice with you.”

“What kind of compliment is that?” JJ yells out to the taller girl out of the group.

Kiara innocently shrugs her shoulders with a grin.

“We’re officially sisters, AlmBelle!” Sarah is a giggly mess with her chin buried in Alma’s shoulder, while hugging her from behind.

Alma smiles resting her cheek back against Sarah’s.

Rafe glanced at the ring on his way by with his lips pushed out, plastic cup still in hand, “Not bad for a pogue, Maybank.”

“You know what, Rafe?” JJ starts in a tone that makes everyone turn their attention to the blond’s words, “…I’m too happy right now to even want to kick your ass so…happy thanksgiving man.”

Rafe snickers as he gazes up at the turkey leg headband the younger man now had on his head, they side eye each other until Rafe raises his cup in a silent congratulatory manner.

“I’m gonna check on the kid.” Rafe informs the group of friends, stopping to look over his shoulder to see the most loyal of friends express their joy over this new found chapter in their lives.

Everyone stops to just sit with each other for a while before the cleanup starts. Alma has her eyes closed as JJ presses kisses all over her cheek, arms locked around her hips while they lounged on the couch.

They were rightfully in their bubble right now.

“I won’t really be able to keep my hands off you now, Mrs.” He says into her ear.

Alma smiles, “Don’t.”

“Promise you’ll return the favor?” JJ’s got that cute dimple peeking out on his cheek.

Alma shifts to rest her legs over JJ’s lap, “You’re not going anywhere as long as I have something to say about it.”

He runs one hand down the length of her faux leather covered thigh, “I like the sound of that.”

And this is just a page in what should have been the perfect love story.

Sarah smiles at the two from across the room on another sofa, John B was already snoring against her shoulder. It was safe to say that JJ’s team won the Friendsgiving games tonight. Her almond eyes watched as Alma held onto JJ’s jaw as he animatedly talked, probably about his path to getting the ring. There was such a softness in Alma’s eyes as she gently nodded along, listening to the blond she took the time to love.

JJ Maybank was home.

.𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔 ݁ ˖ .𖥔

[ragingbookdragon]

Alejandro sighed, running a hand through his dark hair, tiredness pulling at his bones as he looked over the files and reports his men had compiled. “This isn’t enough,” he muttered, looking at Rudy who was just as tired.

“Ale, we don’t have the manpower to gather more intelligence. No one is opening their mouth on Valeria’s movements since she was released.”

“If she gets out of Las Almas, we’ll never find her.”

“What if she already is?”

He gazed at Rudy and let out another sigh as his phone started ringing. “Let’s pray she isn’t.” he raised the phone to his ear, a tired smile on his face as he answered, “Mi alma, how lovely it is to hear your voice. I’ve missed you today.”

A beat skipped over the line before a young woman’s voice followed. “Uh…Seño—Colonel Vargas?”

Immediately, the sleepiness was gone from his demeanor as he stood up and demanded, “Who is this? Where is my wife?”

“Oh, oh she’s right here, sir—Señora Vargas, say hi—HIIII—This is Nurse Lisa at Saint Maria’s, um, your wife is on some pretty heavy pain medication at the moment so she’s not fully here.”

“What happened?” Rudy was already rounding the table with his keys out.

“She had an unfortunate accident at work with a box cutter. Took a good chunk out of her hand, so we had to stitch her up. Legally, we can’t dismiss her given the amount of medication and local anesthesia we had to give her. Can you possibly come get her or send someone to release her?”

Alejandro let out a groan and waved Rudy to follow. “I’m on my way.”

“Good, we’ll just—wait! Señora Vargas you can’t eat that! Sir, I have to go!”

***

As he helped his wife into the backseat, he looked back at the nurse still giggling away at them. “How long until this wears off?”

“Oh, just an hour or so. Give her a hydro before she goes to sleep. She’ll be out like a baby.”

Before he could say anything, his wife poked her head from the side and pointed at Alejandro. “This is my baby,” she grinned, wide and toothy. “I caught this big fish all on my own. Didn’t even have to show my boobs either.”

“Mi alma!”

The nurse didn’t even seem to be fazed. “Really? Did you show your butt?”

She waggled her brows and pointer at him. “More like my pus—”

“OKAY GOODNIGHT!” Alejandro shouted and pushed her in the door, shutting it behind her. “Goodnight, Nurse Lisa, and thank you.”

She waved at them. “Come back in a week to check her stitches!”

***

“Rudy!” she shouted as she saw him in the driver’s seat, leaning up to hug him around the neck rather lopsidedly. “I’m so happy to see you.”

Rudy smiled and patted her arm. “As am I, Señora Vargas. How are you feeling?”

“Do not call me Señora Vargas. That’s what we call Mama Vargas.”

“What should I call you then?” he mused, and she winked.

“I dunno…what do you want to call me?”

“Hmm…” he pretended to think as he started driving around the bend. “How about… Señora Vargas?”

“Rudy!” she whined, laying her head on his shoulder. “‘s’not fair…you call Alejandro Ale sometimes…I want a nickname too.”

“How about bombón?”

She blinked. “Did you just call me baboon?”

He snickered. “No, bombón.”

“Bombón?”

“Mhm.”

“What does that mean?”

He looked at Alejandro who was grinning. “Oh, just sweet and soft.”

“I like it,” she smiled, kissing his cheek. “Se gracias, Rudy. Eres un amigo maravilloso.”

Rudy felt his cheeks warm, not at the kiss but at the affection in her voice, the real love. “De nada, bombón.”

She patted his head and turned her attention to Alejandro. “Mi amorrrrrrrr.”

“Mi almaaaaaaaa,” he cooed back and she tried to wiggle into the front seat and he held her upper body as she laid her head on his chest.

“I love you.”

“I love you too,” he said, kissing her head. “How do you feel?”

“Sleepy…and hungry.” She looked up at him. “You’re so beautiful, Alejandro.”

He chuckled. “Not as beautiful as you, mi alma.”

“Shut up, I’m being serious.” She lifted her bandaged hand and with her two fingers still poking out, gently touched his face. “I’m so lucky to have you. You mean the world to me and more. I could lose it all, be broke, homeless, and nowhere to go, and I’d be okay if it meant I still had you with me.” She smiled at him, hazy and drunk on pain medication and love. “Whenever I think about us growing old, I’m not scared of going before or after you. I know that wherever we end up next, we’ll be together. Every life, me and you. How it’ll always be.”

Alejandro felt the corner of his eyes begin to sting and he gently brushed her face and nuzzled his nose into her hair. “Mi alma, thank you.”

“You’re welcome, mi amor,” she whispered back and pressed her lips to his vest; for a moment she lay there, and Alejandro had figured she’d fallen asleep until she popped up and asked, “Will you make me a margarita when we get home?”

“Absolutamente no.”

“But Alejandrooooooooo!”

[criticallyacclaimedstranger]

I Hope You Dance [a Jay and Frankie fic]

Read on Ao3

Fandom: Triple Frontier

Ship: Frankie Morales x Jay ‘Lady’ Ray (OFC) **Series masterlist**

Warnings: TeenagerParent!Jay and Frankie, allusions to J & F having sex, underage drinking, vomiting, mention of girls kissing, teenage bisexual panic.

Words: 1,817

Summary: Jay and Frankie have a childfree night when Alma, 15, calls in panic from a party and asks to be picked up. Mom and dad to the rescue in more ways than one.

A/N: @beesmall asked the following: "What are things like for Jay and Frankie when the girls are a little older? Would love to hear about how they navigate the teenage drama years." I hope you like it! (Title is shameless stolen from Lee Ann Womack's song of the same name. I don't particularly like the song, but it fits the fic *shrugs*)

”MOOOOOM!”

Jay puts down the knife she was just about to use to cut vegetables, and looks over at Frankie, who’s frying meatballs at the stove.

”Is that girl about to die or what the hell is going on?”

Frankie chuckles. ”I think she might.”

The stairs groan under the running feet of a very stressed teenager, and the second after, Alma shows up in the kitchen.

”Mom, where’s my purple plaid?”

”I don’t know, honey, I don’t have a crystal ball,” Jay tells her patiently as she cuts up the tomatoes. ”And what have I told you about yelling like that?”

”Not to,” Alma pouts, but she’s still vibrating with pent up energy. ”But mom, if I don’t have the plaid, I won’t have anything to wear to Kat’s party!”

”You have a closet full of clothes.”

”You don’t get it!”

Alma storms off again in search of the beloved plaid, and Jay sighs deeply.

”My daughter cares about fashion. What did I do wrong?”

”Now, now,” Frankie chides her while shaking the frying pan in order to turn the meatballs. ”There are worse things a fifteen-year-old could do, you know that. Ours is actually very balanced.”

”Oh, I know that. But I still don’t understand how I’m supposed to know where her clothes are. Our kids fold their own clean clothes, and put the dirty ones in the hamper.”

”Maybe Bianca borrowed it.”

”If she did, Alma’s going to kill her.”

Alma reappears, now carrying the purple plaid and a very relieved look.

”Where was it?” Frankie asks lightly, knowing the answer.

”Where I left it,” the girl mutters, but she seems less stressed now.

”Imagine that,” Jay quips with a teasing smile, which is met by an eyeroll.

”Okay, mom.”

”Lay the table, please. Dinner will be ready soon, and then I’ll drive you to the party.”

Alma accepts without comments, and Jay watches her in secret while preparing the salad. Alma may be something of a tomboy who doesn’t really care about makeup and skimpy little party outfits, but she still cares about what she looks like. That purple plaid is her favorite, and she’d obviously want to wear it for a party.

After dinner, Jay takes Bianca to a friend’s house for a sleepover, then picks up Alma’s friend Joanna, and drives the girls to Kat’s house for the party.

”Remember that you can call for any reason,” she reminds her daughter before dropping them off. ”If anything happens, if something feels wrong, if the two of you wanna go home. Okay? At any time.”

”Sure, mom,” Alma nods, already getting out of the car. ”I’ll call, I promise!”

”Have fun!”

Confident that Alma will reach out, Jay drives back home to the old farm that she and Frankie bought and fixed up with the South American money all those years ago. Frankie’s waiting for her, grinning mischievously at her from his chair on the porch when she ascends the stairs.

”What?” she grins back, knowing full well what’s on his mind. The older the kids get and the more time they spend away from home, the more the sturdy bed in the master bedroom has to suffer. The years haven’t diminished the love and attraction Jay and Frankie have for each other.

”Come here, mama...”

///

The phone wakes Jay from her slumber, but as soon as she sees her oldest daughter’s photo on the screen, she’s wide awake.

”Hi, sweetie.”

”Mom?” Alma’s voice is small and unsure. ”Can you come and pick us up?”

”Alma, what’s the matter?” Jay’s in full mission mode immediately, getting out of bed and pulling out clothes from the closet. Frankie sits up as well, hearing that something’s amiss.

”Joanna isn’t feeling well, she had a lot to drink, and there are some older guys here...”

”I’m on my way, honey. Are you safe there? You want me to call 911?”

”Just get here, mom.”

”Fifteen minutes, honey.”

Frankie’s up as well, pulling his jeans on.

”What’s wrong?” he wants to know as soon as Jay hangs up. She pulls an old army hoodie over her head.

”Joanna drank too much, and apparently there are some older guys there. I think Alma’s fine, but she wasn’t feeling safe.”

”I’m coming with.”

Jay nods, and a couple of minutes later, they’re in the car, leaving the farm.

The party’s in full swing when they get there, but when Jay marches in, grim-faced and heavy-booted, it puts a damper on things. Not even the seventeen- and eighteen-year-old boys dare say anything when she turns her steely gaze at them.

”I’m only gonna say this once,” she proclaims loudly. ”Everyone who’s not on Kat’s year, get the fuck out. You have ten seconds, then I’m calling the cops and holding you down until they come and arrest your asses.”

Five guys get up quickly, picking up six-packs, and making their way past her, only to meet Frankie’s broad shoulders towering menacingly over them at the door. A car engine starts, and it’s like the rest of the crowd lowers their shoulders. Jay quickly finds Alma and Joanna in the bathroom, poor Joanna sobbing into the toilet bowl. After making sure that both girls are okay, Jay and Alma help lead Joanna out, where Frankie picks up the lurching girl, and carries her to the car.

”You can’t tell my parents, they’ll kill me,” she sobs in the backseat. Jay and Frankie exchange glances as they get in the front seat, Frankie driving this time. Joanna was supposed to spend the night at their house, and maybe it’s better to stick to the plan, and deal with the aftermath tomorrow.

They make it home with a couple of stops so that Joanna can throw up by the roadside, Jay and Frankie comforting her, Alma watching with a lost look on her face. When they finally get home, they put Joanna up in the guestroom with a bucket, an extra blanket, painkillers and water. After making sure she’s okay, they leave her to sleep.

Jay exhales deeply once the guestroom door clicks shut behind her. Walking into the kitchen, she glances at the clock on the wall, seeing that it’s two am. She hears Frankie call her softly from the living-room. Walking there, she finds her husband and daughter on the couch. Alma’s looking confused and tired, and Frankie has his arm around her shoulders.

”I’m sorry, mom,” she whispers, and Jay hurries to her, sitting down next to her.

”Alma, honey, you have nothing to apologize for.”

”I should’ve taken better care of her.”

”It’s not your responsibility,” Frankie reminds her gently, and Jay nods.

”He’s right. You did everything right, Alma, you looked out for your friend, and you called us when you couldn’t handle the situation. I promise you, Alma, you did exactly right. I’m proud of you.”

The girl’s eyes fill with tears. ”Really?”

”So, so proud,” Frankie confirms, and Alma sobs.

”Even when I drink? I mean, with mom...”

”Honey, I’ve told you, I know you’re going to drink sooner or later,” Jay reminds her. They’ve had this conversation before, and so far, Alma hasn’t once come home drunk. ”I just want you to be careful when you do.”

”It wasn’t even that good, so I couldn’t drink much.”

”Yeah, it tastes shit, doesn’t it?” Jay chuckles. Alma smiles weakly through her tears before sobbing again.

”Joanna’s gonna be mad at me.”

”She’ll be fine in the morning,” Jay guesses. ”She’ll probably feel ashamed, but it’s okay. She’ll come around.”

”No, I mean...” The girl clams shut, and Jay strokes her neck gently until she’s comfortable to share.

”We were dancing and having a really good time and... I kissed her.”

Oh, my poor baby. Alma came out as bisexual about a year ago, first to her beloved uncle Benny, shortly later to her parents and sister. It hadn’t changed anything for Jay and Frankie, except that their first week after the coming out was filled with frantic googling on how to support their daughter. Dating, Jay had realized, would maybe be a little trickier for Alma, but she had resolved to give advice and help whenever her daughter asked for it, not before.

”You think she’ll be mad at you for that?” Frankie asks her gently. Alma shrugs.

”She got really weird, and then the guys showed up, and they had beers and she just started hanging with them.”

”Baby, I’m sure you’ll patch things up,” Jay tries to comfort her. ”Just let her sober up, live through her hangover which I’m sure will be epic, and then you can figure things out.”

”She kissed me back.”

”Then I hope there’s an even bigger chance that things will work out,” Frankie points out. Alma shakes her head.

”Her mom and dad are really strict. They’ll kill her.”

”No they won’t,” Jay tells her firmly. ”We’ll see to that, honey, I promise. It’ll be okay.”

Alma takes a deep breath and sighs it out, relaxing visibly.

”I love you, mom,” she whispers, and now Jay embraces her tightly.

”I love you too, Alma.”

”I love you, dad.”

”I love you, mijita.” Frankie’s arms are around them both, warm and reassuring.

They help their daughter to bed before retiring to their own bedroom for the second time that night.

”Christ,” Jay yawns as she undresses. ”I guess it begins. The dating and heartache phase, not to mention drinking.”

”But we did good,” Frankie reminds her, already in bed and waiting for her. ”She did everything right, just like you said.”

”Yeah, thank fuck.” Jay joins him between the sheets that still smell of their earlier love-making. She settles against him and yawns again.

”But I can’t believe our baby girl is so grown up already,” Frankie adds, his voice quivering a little. Jay passes her hand over his chest in half a caress, half a shove.

”Please don’t start bawling about our kids growing up yet again, I’m too tired for that shit.”

”When will you stop pretending like you don’t think it’s super cute that I get so emotional?” he chuckles, and Jay has to smile.

”When hell freezes over.”

”You’re a hard woman. But you did amazing with Alma tonight.”

”It was teamwork, baby,” she reminds, now angling her face up towards his. Their lips brush against each other. ”It's always teamwork.”

Frankie hums before pressing his lips to hers for a long, sweet kiss that ends with both of them yawning.

”Goddammit, I’m too old for this,” he mutters, and Jay lays her head down on his shoulder again.

”You and me both. And we still have to deal with whatever fresh catastrophe those two come up with tomorrow.”

”That’s for tomorrow,” Frankie rules, and Jay agrees. Right now, both of them are happy with what they’ve accomplished, and deserve some sleep.

[gamerbearmira]

heya again <3

so...i got some more giftless grandkids thoughts here, written in bullet points because my brain just kept going AHAHHAHA

I’m currently listening to the vocal mashup of the grandkids of waiting on a miracle while im going through the giftless grandkids tag as im taking a break from other aus, it’s very fun and sets the mood somehow AHHAHHA

I’m really glad they have each other and are thriving even without their gifts, and they likely already got used to not having gifts and wouldn’t care, and that’s so real of them

The mashup is making me think of some things tho, ngl AHHAHAH

But anyway, yes, I currently have many thoughts

Was thinking about the reasons for why Casita would crack and fall, considering the kids are close with each other here and the adults (minus Alma oof) are all there supporting them, Bruno included since he never went to the walls

And as I read some of your posts and think about it more, it makes sense

There are several main things that would make Casita crack here—aka the family themselves cracking—would be:

Ofc, there’s still Alma’s pressure on the triplets and her confusion and unintentional hurt towards the grandkids

Most likely how Julieta is hiding the big secret on why they didn’t get their gifts and also their doorknobs

Another is how Pepa and Bruno are also hiding the vision tablet from everyone but specifically Julieta

Still trying to think of other reasons, but those are the main ones, I think

In canon, Bruno had been patching up the cracks, which definitely helped Casita stay up longer, but he never went to the walls here, so how would Casita and the family last until a little after Antonio’s ceremony (assuming we’re still going with something similar to canon timeline)?

Here is where the kids’ good relationships come in, their love and care are helping hold things together, even without Bruno repairing the cracks

The process of Casita cracking would be slower here compared to canon

So what happens when the kids—the main reasons for Casita still being able stand—are faced with the revelation that they could have gotten their gifts back then? Could have possibly avoided a lot of heartache and ridicule and disappointment from the people around them? And the reason they didn’t are because of the adults? Because of Julieta?

They hyperfocus on the bad parts, overshadowing the good parts because its an intense and shocking moment and revelation for them, I think

In the moment of the revelation, that’s likely going to upset them, maybe even break them a little, because why? Why did they—? 

Of course, they’ll later have the full realization that they grew up happier without the gifts, but again, that’s later

Also, pretty sure they focus more on the fact that it seemed like the adults they trusted lied and deceived them in a sense, almost like a betrayal (except ofc its not)

This, too, would connect to how Julieta says in that one giftless grandkids art of yours, “I didn’t want to hurt them—to hurt anyone.”

And then, with the love faltering for a moment, that’s how Casita falls apart

Also, why am I imagining the kids finding the vision tablet that Pepa and Bruno are likely hiding, making them realize what Julieta is hiding, which then starts the realizations, arguments, and full-on cracking of Casita?

This would then parallel canon with Bruno’s vision too

This means we get to see all the kids trying to figure things out together too

After everything, I can really see Julieta and the rest of the adults gifting the kids their doorknobs again as a surprise—which they will later use to get their gifts too AHAHHAHA YEAHHH

Anywho, ye, just some thoughts I have hehe <33

Literally listened to that bop today so real 😭😭

ANYWAY. Y'all might not now, but Mic here as been helping me in world building for this au 🤭🤭 its gonna be one of the next fics I do, since Mamabel and Werewolf are finished (will be updating today after I finish Mama Isa. And if my wifi will let me <\\\3)

ANYWAY THESE IDEAS?? ARE SO RAD...Triplets being in the spotlight because the grandkids have no gifts, its so sad. But honestly, Alma is just pushing them because she needs to prove that the miracle is ok. Implying that the kids did something. Subtle, but whatever.

Also, the kids are like Mirabel in canon, constantly trying to prove themselves and helping out around town. Meanwhile there's a certain group of villagera who don't even like them. Not all the villagers, but definitely a good chunk. There may or may not be a rather crude mural somewhere in town out of the way. But there :(

But anyway. The kids do have hobbies relating to their gifts! The husbands, feeling guilty, gave the kids presents, gifts to give them something to do since Alma couldn't "assign" them anything (which they were grateful for).

Isabela got some gardening gloves and tools, and is really into gardening and farming, and is always tending to her garden or helping out with the farmers in town. She also tends to all the plants in Casita. Dolores loves to play music, and after Félix gave her first guitar, she was hooked. She has tons of instruments, and actually taught Mirabel to play the accordion; she helps with entertainment, like Camilo. Agustín got Luisa some dumb bells, she actually asked for them. She wanted to strong and still help out, and regulating exercises and mostly helps out with packing and loading or at the quarry.

Camilo was give some costumes and puppies, and he's been into performances and theater since. He also performs for the kids, and plays alongside Dolores often. Mirabel was given new sewing stuff. Instead of Alma teaching her most of what she knew, Agustín helped her, since he knew some, and she kept the fashion and crafts hobby up. She helps repair things around town, and does the occasional clothing repair. Antonio still is finding his hobby, but the grandkids know he really loves animals. They actually suggested Félix get him a pet. So what does he get him? A parrot. Antonio loves that parrot like no other, and he's always around him, trailing behind Luisa.

DESIGNS 🌚🙏🙏 I'll post the family tree later, and maybe draw the triplets because their designs changed but me and Mic are still working in them. But the kids❗❗ Their clothes are very plain and dull, because the seamstress refused to make their clothes any fun. Even Mirabel can only embroider so much, and she rarely has time to do so cause she's so busy helping. But there's some subtle designs <33

Julieta really did and does mean well in this au, but drastic actions really do cause drastic results in some cases. Her pull those doorknobs was definitely drastic. While the kids are happier and aren't nearly as pressured, they feel inadequate, and like something is missing :(( And then there's vision tablet (that's like over 40 years old 💀), but that's a whole other can of worms.

ANYWAY. AO3 HOPEFULLY LATER MY WIFI IS :((( Also I'll be posting the finished storyboards for the WOOM animatic I'm working on, and then I'll also post the rough video put together with it. SHOUTOUT TO @thefourchimes FOR HELPING ME WITH THIS SHE'S SO COOL <333 should tote check out her aus, they're so cool. ψ(｀∇´)ψ

[enchantedchocolatebars]

Cosmic Frontier: Space Wolves Vs. Earth Ponies

Fanfic for Camila Mama Week 2024 (@camilamamaweek).

Day 6: Cosmic Frontier/Wolves

To commemorate this wonderful week, I opted to write short stories that feature Camila and her second daughter, Alma, who is one of my OCs.

This is part 2 of "Shopping For Snacks".

Summary: The family arrives at the theater together, but they encounter an irritating ticket taker.

Enjoy!

("Build-A-Bud" is a parody of "Build-A-Bear").

"Come on, come on, Mom and Alma," Luz whispered worriedly, gazing at the time on her purple Azura themed wristwatch while standing near the movie theater entrance with her stepfather.

"Please hurry." She didn't want the four of them to miss a single second of the movie.

Luz began to tap her foot, her nerves at an all-time high.

Beardo Philip brought a comforting hand on Luz's shoulder, gently patting it.

"They'll be here," he reassured, looking down at her, which made Luz take a deep breath and sigh, nodding her head.

After bringing his gaze back up, Philip's smile got brighter, his blue eyes lighting up.

"And here they come now."

Hearing this, Luz looks up to see her mother and sister hurriedly rushing over to her and Philip, with Alma waving happily at her sister, who giggled and waved back.

"Sorry we're late," Camila apologized with a sigh, adjusting her purse.

"We brought snacks!" Alma beamed, pulling out a candy bar from her skirt pocket to show it before placing it back.

"Honestly," Philip began, viewing the time on Luz's watch. "I think you arrived right on time, calabaza."

He smiled at Camila.

Camila let out a fond giggle at his adorable pet name.

She simply loved it when he called her that.

Camila then goes over to Philip and places a sweet smooch on his left cheek. "Gracias, mi amor."

...

Upon entering the cinema lobby together, the family walks to the ticket taking podium on the right side of the theater.

Luz, recognizing who their ticket taker is, cringes.

'Ugh, not him,' she groaned in her mind.

He was known to be the most annoying person in town.

Luz was curious as to how he ended up landing a job at the movies, but she doubts he'll have it for long.

He's bound to mess it up and get fired, somehow.

Jacob caught sight of the candy bar sticking out of Alma's pocket as the family arrived at the podium.

The theater didn't sell that brand.

He frowned at this and pointed an accusatory finger at the small girl.

Philip already didn't like this man.

"You!" Jacob cried. "No outside food or drink allowed in the thea--"

Before Philip could maul this ill-mannered man with his bare hands, Camila was first to make a move, narrowing her eyes at Jacob.

"Is there going to be a problem here...,"

Camila spoke in a low, threatening voice as she reached into her purse and pulled out her chancla slightly, enough for Jacob to see it and gulp.

"Mister?"

Flashbacks of the past begin to play in his mind as Jacob feels an unexpected sting on his right cheek, holding it.

The strike of her slipper was still present in that place.

He shutters.

"N-Not at all, ma'am," he answered with a frightened stammer.

"Good," said Camila, dropping her chancla in her purse and pulling out the tickets to hand to Jacob, who politely took and ripped them.

He handed her a ticket stub.

"Your theater number is 5. It's located in the center of the hall on the left side," he said before showing Camila a nervous smile. "Enjoy the show!"

"Yay!" Alma cheered as she and her family walked down the hall.

A sigh of relief escaped Jacob as he wiped his brow.

However, he felt a pair of eyes on him and turned around to see Camila squinting at him.

The mother's expression indicated that she had her eyes on him as she turned back around.

...

"Uh...," a man holding a ticket said as he approached the ticket taker podium and saw the male ticket taker silently weeping to himself while rocking back and forth in the fetal position.

...

"Wow, that movie was great!" An astonished Luz exclaimed as she and her family exited the movie auditorium and entered the hallway with the other movie goers.

"Yeah!" Alma agreed with her sister, smiling brightly. "My favorite part was when the wolves became friends with the ponies."

She turned to look at her mother, who was holding her hand.

"Mamá, can we go to the Build-A-Bud Workshop at the mall tomorrow and build a space wolf friend and an Earth pony friend?" she asked.

She remembers a commercial about it playing before the movie started.

Camila gives her daughter a smile and nods. "Of course, mija."

...

As the family walked down the theater lobby, Alma spotted the ticket taker who had pointed at her at the podium.

He was sitting on a stool at the bar by himself.

She proceeds to point at him. "Mamá, look! It's that man!"

Camila turns her attention to the bar, where she witnessed Jacob filling his shot glass with butter from a popcorn butter bottle that he had and taking a shot of it.

The bartender, who was wiping a shot glass, seemed quite disturbed by his peculiar coping mechanism.

Camila, repulsed by the sight, slowly looks back at Alma with a genuine smile. "Pay him no mind, baby. He's just a strange man."

"Oh!" Alma smiled back at her mother. "Yes, Mamá."

[batwritings]

HEY!! i just stumbled on your account and i LOVE how you write!! can i request a fluff story with Valeria Garza COD? with a fem or gender neutral reader where they’re both pretty old, like mid 60s/70s they have grownup kids and little grandkids, they host a big family gathering and the grandkids wanna know how they both met? could you write about them meeting in their younger years? and specifically, how they met? were they rivals? were they childhood friends? was reader just a civilian who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time? was reader a damsel in distress? (ofc this takes place after valeria retired from her gang!!)

you don’t have to write it now but i haven’t seen anything like this before, and i find it to be a very cute little concept!

OH BTW!! can reader be taller and older than Valeria? like maybe 2-3years older? and can reader have a flirty personality? also maybe more dominant than Valeria because there are hardly any fics like that, it’s always Val who’s the top and dim, let’s give her a break for once please🙏🏻🙏🏻😭😭💕

AGAIN, THANK YOU IF YOU WRITE THIS!!

I will certainly do my best to do this justice friend! Enjoy!~

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"¡Abuelita!" Your grandkids cried, rushing up to your front door. You couldn't help but smile from the kitchen as you worked on food to place on the ofrenda. You could hear the sound of Valeria greeting them and ushering them inside to start on their makeup for the evening.

"Hola mama," came your oldest child, pecking you on the cheek as they put down the extra things they'd brought for Dia de los Muertos. "The others and I are going to go finish getting set up. Can we leave the kids with you and Mama Val?"

You shoot your child a look as if to say "do you really need to ask?" before they smile and run off. It was weird to think that your babies were all grown up now, having niñas and niños of their own. But you wouldn't have it any other way.

With food prep nearly done, you stepped out of your tiny kitchen to check into where Valeria was prepping your grandkids. "Almost done chica settle down," you hear hear chide as you lean in the doorway. At nearly 64, it was harder to do, but it didn't stop you.

"¡Abuelita!" four of the five young kids exclaim rushing up to you to show their makeup. "Don't I look cool?" "Don't I look so pretty?" they asked, clamoring for your attention.

"Si, mi chiquitos," you chuckle, smiling to your partner. "You all look wonderful. And I'm sure people like Tio Diego will be excited to see you."

You could see the sad smile on Valeria's face at the mention of her old right hand. While it had been a few decades since she had gone by "El Sin Nombre", it wasn't a time too long ago for the both of you. You're pulled from your reminiscing by your littlest grandchild, the one your love was currently working on.

"Did Tio Diego introduce you two abuelita?" she asks in her tiny voice. "Is he why we get two abuelitas?" You think for a moment, wondering if she was old enough to know. A few of your grandkids knew of the past between you and Val. Not the entirety of it, but enough to know your first meeting was anything but ordinary or safe.

"He did," Valeria answers before you can, never stopping her wrinkled hand. She puts the finishing touches on the little girls face smiling at her work. "If it weren't for Tio Diego and your abuelita, I probably wouldn't get to be here doing your makeup." Your lover presses a kiss to the girl's head, helping her down off the bed.

"Yeah everyone know that!" Chimes one of your grandsons. "Mama Y/N was a medic in Las Almas and helped Mama Valeria with her injuries."

"Not here?" Asks the youngest, clearly confused. "Where would she be then?"

"I don't know mija," you tell her, leaning over Valeria now. You can faintly hear her grumble about your height. "But that pretty face of hers would certainly compliment the ofrenda."

You revel in the groans that come from your grandkids and the way your wife hides her blushing face in her hands. From the front door, one of you kids calls for the young ones, and they go rushing out to show off you wife's handiwork. You can't help but smile as you watch them go, your lover standing beside you.

"You left out the part where you flirted with me even as my prisoner amor," Valeria hums as she leans up to press a kiss to your cheek. "And how you're a cradle robber." You gape at her in mock offense.

"It's only three years!"

[just-a-funny-little-brain]

Unmarked Cairn

Critical Role: Bells Hells, Orym, 1.4k words

Summary: The flowered valley just north of Zephrah holds many stone cairns and even more memories. Here are a few of Orym's.

tw: mentioned canonical character death, grief

Read it on ao3

———

There’s an unmarked cairn in the flowered stone garden. 

Orym notices it the third time Alma brings him to visit the garden. 

“Death is simply a piece of life. It’s important to understand both and not be afraid of it.”

The young halfling hadn’t understood the first time, and he’s not sure he understands now, but he’s here in the garden, and the flowers are nice.

“Who was Findal?”

Alma smiles. “They were one of the hardest working farmers down in the Talam area. They had such a way with goats, as soon as anyone had an issue with theirs, Findal was the first they went to. They had a laugh you could hear for miles.”

“Did you deliver them?”

Alma laughs and tussles Orym’s hair. “No, they were around for a long time before I came along.”

Orym ducks from beneath his mother’s hand and skips around stones of different heights to find a name with a new story. 

Soon one catches his eye. It stands away from most of the cairns. While most of the others have names engraved facing the path, the dark stones are blank.

“Mama? Who’s this?”

Alma’s gentle smile fades and she places her hands on his shoulders. “The Tempest created that one recently. Nobody knows for certain who it’s for, though. Someone very special to her.”

“Is it her dad?”

The smile returns. “No, silly, Korrin’s her dad. You know that. Come on, it’s almost lunch,” she says, gently directing the boy back home.

——

The first autumn after Will officially asks Orym on a date, they decide, at Derrig’s encouragement, to attend the Night of Ascension ceremony in the Memory Garden. The Garden is modestly but beautifully decorated, with seasonal flowers and mosses covering the cairns and lining the walkways. 

It had been a long week of training, and Orym’s muscles ache as he matches Will’s stride. Will glances down at him and grins.

“Gotta work on those leg stretches more so you can get taller and keep up,” he teases. 

“I’ll do that once you finally beat me up a tree,” Orym retorts, bumping Will’s hip. “Or maybe once you’re better with the skysails.”

Will laughs. “Okay, okay. Here, how about when either of us wins a spar against Dad?”

Orym smiles and reaches up for his hand. “It’s a deal.”

They find a place among the crowd near Orym’s grandmother’s cairn. It’s worn with loving touches and is currently decorated with a woven circlet of flowers draped over the namestone. Orym places one hand against the smoothed riverstones, a cool contrast to Will’s warm hand in the other.

The gathering quiets respectfully as the Voice of the Tempest steps forward from the crowd to welcome everyone and begin the ceremony.

As the sunlight begins to fade, luminescent insects begin to appear and gather at the flowers on each cairn. It’s a nearly perfect night for the ceremony — calm winds, cool air, and not a cloud to hide the stars that have just begun to blink through the sky. Orym glances up before nudging Will to look to the northeast. 

“It’s us,” he whispers.

Will looks up and smiles at the sight of the two moons. “Yeah,” he says softly, squeezing Orym’s hand.

Soon, the ceremony draws to a close, and Orym and Will kneel by the cairn. Slowly, Orym reaches his hand out towards the stone, and the glowing insects move towards the warmth of his skin. 

“Hi, Granny,” he says softly. “A lot’s happened. A lot’s changed, but... also nothing’s changed.” A smile tugs at his lips. “Will and I are dating now. You always said we were like one big family, and now we really are. Or, will be.” He thinks for a moment. “Mom and Nel are doing well. Leeta keeps trying to make your cookies, but they’re never quite right. We miss you, and we love you.” He looks to Will.

Will, despite his best efforts, has hardly any bugs on his hands. “Come on...” he mutters. 

Orym smirks. “See, even the glowbugs think you have cold hands.”

With a groan, Will lowers his hands, and the few accumulated insects flit over to Orym’s hands.

“You can double my hands,” Orym says with a smile.

Will sighs. “Yeah, all right. You halflings always run so warm, it’s not fair!” he says with a fake huff and a smile. 

Orym laughs softly. “Come on, before the glowbugs start thinking they live here now.”

Gently, Will wraps his hands under Orym’s, and after a quite count to three, they fling their hands into the air. In a burst of light and color, the glowbugs scatter, carrying the love and wishes of Zephrah into the night.

——

The Raven Tree is in full bloom on Orym and Will’s wedding day. The ceremony is beautiful and joyful, full of family and friends, and afterwards the whole of Zephrah joins in celebrating.

As the evening grows, Orym squeezes Will’s hand to get his attention.

“We should visit the rest of the family.”

Will nods, and the pair excuse themselves from the festivities.

The walk to the Memory Garden is quiet, a refreshing break from the chaos they leave behind. Buds and blooms line the path, enveloping the pair in a warm, gentle fragrance as they approach. 

Slowly, methodically, the two weave along well-worn paths, pausing for family and friends to extend the ceremony to each. Finally, they make their way to a fallen tree that had been carved into a bench years ago. 

Orym leans against Will’s side as he sits and lets out a sigh. 

Will laughs softly. “Yeah. It’s a lot.”

Orym smiles. “Yeah. Nobody I’d rather do it with though,” he says, bringing Will’s hand up to kiss the new ring that now decorated a finger.

“Mm.” Will drapes his arm around Orym’s shoulders, pulling him close.

The evening is quiet for a few minutes. Slowly, then faster, stars peak through the darkening sky. Orym points out the large crescent moon dwarfing its smaller red partner, both just skirting the horizon. 

“Moons are rising.”

“They’re just getting started for the night. Just like us,” Will says with a waggle of his eyebrows.

Orym laughs. “Oh gods, not here, Alma might kill me if she finds out.”

“She doesn’t need to find out!” Will protests, his face the picture of innocence. 

Orym rolls his eyes with a smile. “Maybe on a night when we’re not expected back soon. Maybe .”

“It’s a deal,” Will says. “You know, someday? We’ll be old men and just sit out here all day. Watch the Skysailers during the day, and watch the stars at night.”

“And the moons.”

“We can show the moons what’s what.”

Orym laughs. “We’ll do just that.”

——

Orym is half asleep and fully drunk when a dark shadow approaches down a path of the Memory Garden. 

He doesn’t notice it at first, as the tears sting and blur his surroundings. Two new cairns make for drunken pillows, even as the sharp edges of fresh engravings carve into his skin. The stinging stone is a sad mockery of the gaping hole in his chest, threatening, promising to consume him where he lies.

A gentle wind raises his head. The silhouette is tall, a textured dark cloak obscuring the details as it trails behind.

A raven caws at the shadow of Catha, the dark new moon leaving Ruidus alone in its wake.

A hiccup escapes Orym’s chest. “Er… ‘re you here fer me too? I din’t... I couldn’t...” A sob punctuates another hiccup. “I couldn’t stop it... I don’... ‘f you take me too -- hic -- do I go where he is?”

The figure turns towards him and tilts their head. “Orym?”

Orym blinks. The voice itches in the back of his mind… something important…

“Orym, why are you here? It’s the middle of the night!”

The voice… it’s someone he knows? Important…?

“So y’r not the… the Raven… Mater… Queen Raven…?”

The figure lets out a harsh laugh. “I most definitely am not.” The figure sighs. “Gods you’re drunk.” The figure crouches before him with a grunt and begins to mutter quietly.

That voice… “What’re you…?” 

Orym blinks, then groans as a pounding pain hits his head. The voice… The Voice. 

Shit.

Orym reaches for Derrig’s shield and scrambles backwards to try to stand. “Temp— Voi— Key—“ He wipes his face and snot and tears smear across his leathers. “I’m so sorry, I-- I shouldn’t be here, I—“ 

The excuses die in his throat as Keyleth gently pulls Orym into a hug. Orym stiffens, but moments later, the exhaustion of the past week takes over.

Keyleth’s arms tighten around the sobbing halfling. “I’m sorry,” she whispers. “I’m so, so sorry.”

[miracles-and-butterflies]

A random wip I have decided to share!

Takes place several years into the future, where an ailing Alma begins to consider who will take her place once she is gone (and when the triplets step down). Isabela has the perfect candidate in mind. And no, it’s not a cactus.

“You need to be more careful, nieta. You aren’t as young as you use to be.”

Isabela scoffed from where she was untangling herself from the vines that had broken her fall. She had pulled away from the path they usually walked, eager to climb to the top of the tallest mango tree in Encanto and pick the freshest one. Alma had no objection, she would be more surprised if Isabela didn’t stray from the path to explore the nature (as though she hadn’t seen or grown it before herself). Or, well, she didn’t have any objections until Isabela threw herself from the tree.

“I’m not old! I don’t look a day over twenty!” She insisted sharply. Sounding very much like Pepa had when she was her age.

“Well, you can’t deny the change in seasons; we are all getting older. I’m getting older.”

The younger woman, now back on path, linked arms with her and they began walking. Isabela was looking at her, calmer - maybe even sadly - not knowing exactly how to respond.

“The truth is I won’t be here for much longer,” Alma reflected. “It is something we all need to consider: what happens next? Who will take my place when I am gone? I want to pass knowing that these things are sorted - that the community is in good hands, that you all will be well taken care of.”

Isabela’s brow furrowed, “I don’t understand. You are already retired? Mama, Tía Pepa and Tío Bruno have taken your place in leading Encanto. And the rest of the council.”

“And that is all well and good - they are doing wonderfully and I’m proud - but eventually they will also need to retire.” She pointed out.

“That’s probably years away.” Isabela dismissed.

“It does seem so, but these things always come sooner than you think. I want to know that matters like this will be sorted.” She trailed off stopping. Isabela soon fell back alongside her, silent. “A new generation will be leading our community one day, Isabela. You, your sisters and your cousins.. one of you will be at the helm. I wish to know who, so I may pass on my blessings and what advice I have from my own experience.”

Isabela’s eyes were locked on hers for a moment. Then she blinked a little. “Oh, fuck, I hope you don’t mean to ask me,” she mumbled.

Before she could attempt to cover up the swear or take it back, Alma was already laughing heartily. She had seen many children grow up, but the transformation of Isabela might be one of the most beautiful. One day, she will happily recount it to her Pedro.

Once Isabela was to be the next leader of Encanto. She had been well introduced with the rest of the council, had been trained in the nature of leadership and the runnings of their community; it was all but made official. Alma can understand why Isabela would have (albeit briefly) worried that she might be asked to hold the position now.

“No, I do not mean you. I know that is something you do not want for yourself.” She caressed Isabela’s cheek with one hand, pulling her down a little to press a kiss on the other. “All I ask from you is that one day, when I am no longer able to see the nature out here, you will grow all this flora in my room, so that I may see it myself.”

“Of course.” Isabela beamed, though her eyes watered a little at the thought of no longer having these walks. She swallowed, however, continuing. “Seeing as you don’t mean me, who did you have in mind? Because I don’t think anyone is going to be strong enough to pull Luisa away from her construction now.”

Alma chuckled, walking again. “I agree. It would be wrong to pull away any one of you away from something you love so much—”

“Even if it is just a ton of boring bricks.”

“—I think all of you have potential, you are all so skilled in your own ways. But… these decisions take time. I still have to speak to the five on them myself. It is something they will have to think about, what they want for their futures.”

Isabela nodded in agreement and they carried on a silently for a while. Oddly enough, it was her granddaughter who circled back to the topic.

“I know you still have to speak with them all and that we should wait for their answers before anything happens…”

“Yes?” Alma caught her eye, curiously. “You can say anything to me, Isabela. I will not judge. In fact, I would be grateful for your advice on this matter.”

She relaxed slightly. The last shreds of doubts or hesitance leaving her. “Honestly, I don’t think any of them will jump at it. Not that it isn’t something they would want, it’s just… the idea of you not being here and not being in charge is still so weird - even now, with Mama, Tía Pepa and Tío Bruno having been leading for a couple years, Mirabel still goes on about it. And we all know Toñito isn’t the best with change. I get that it isn’t something that’ll happen overnight, but just asking ‘who wants it’ won’t do much. You’ll need a lot of encouragement. None of them will do it on their own.”

They came to a stop, the nature parted slightly, almost providing a window to overlook their beloved community. It was one of Alma’s favourite spots and she could never resist taking a moment to set enjoy it.

Isabela didn’t say anything more, watching with her. Though it seemed that she was preoccupied in watching her grandmother, to see how she was reacting to the information, rather than judging the growth of a particular plant (as she usually did).

“I think you’re wrong.”

Alma turned, pulled from thought. She wasn’t offended, but definitely startled. “Pardon?”

“The other five,” Isabela emphasised with a nod down to the village, where surely they must be, busy with their own work or pastimes. “They are talented and have their own strengths and weaknesses and are all very helpful and good people, but I wouldn’t make just any one of them leader based on that.”

It was a fair point.

“And you are sure you aren’t just saying this, in fear Luisa might ban your café con leche if she were in charge?” She couldn’t resist the chance to tease her.

Isabela glared, “No! She wouldn’t have the power to do that anyways.” She looked back at the mango she had picked, still in hand. Bright and warm; full of promise. Alma got the message. “I mean that I think there is really only one of them who could, should, be the leader. Nobody could do it the same as you, or the triplets—”

“Good, I wouldn’t want anyone to do it exactly like us.” Alma smiled. “This new change will fully embrace the connection between the Madrigals and the rest of the community; no more of our family being placed on a pedestal above anyone else.”

“Then she will be perfect.”

[thequeenofthedisneyverse]

My version of the Tainted Miracle Au

Isabela, she started out as the tomboy of the family, loved playing in mud, pulling flowers out from the root to give to her mama, reading about all kinds of plants, etc.

Alma, however, wanted the girl to be more girly so when she became four, she started teaching the girl how to do more feminine things. The miracle didn't know that was going to be a problem but knew what her gift was going to be and blessed with the gift of creating beautiful plants of all kinds.

By the time Mirabel came along she was turning into a perfect feminine version of the tomboy she used to be. But being only eleven, she still tried to hold her childish nature and play with her younger sisters and primos.

But whenever she got too rough or messy, she gets scolded.

"Isabela! You got your dress dirty, the seamstress didn't custom tailor it for you to treat it like that."

After Mirabel got her gift, which was crystal, glass, and diamond creation. She was forced into the perfection role with Isabela being tasked to teach Mirabel what she knows.

At eight Mirabel noticed Camilo, Luisa, and Dolores didn't nearly get as much praise as She and Isabela did. so, she started helping them. She started making cute accessories and dresses (or at least attempted it) for Luisa to wear around town. Same for Camilo and Dolores.

She taught her primos and hermana how to walk agile, how to sit straight, and keep a smile. Dolores wasn't really all for it but tried her best. People would often ask for certain types of jewelry or just about anything made of glass or crystal. So, she would have Camilo, Dolores, and Luisa help her mail them around town if they would be in the area.

Camilo would model as Mirabel's manniquin when it came to Mirabel making clothes for the family. Alma saw this and in turn, gave him praise for helping her "Chica Diamante Perfecta"

They would also help Isabela with mailing certain flowers to certain homes or just give them to people when Isabela handed them the flowers to pass out.

They all would get praise for helping Mirabel and Isabela out…but this took a turn. It was expectant for them to be pretty and helpful just like Mirabel and Isabela.

Camilo could no longer slouch over or do boyish things. He was now supposed to help Mira, be a perfect babysitter (in other words mother), respectful, clean, and eat a normal portion of food.

Luisa was now supposed to handle herself with grace when doing chores in town. No running, no dirtying clothes that Mirabel made for you, head up, back straight, swift movements.

Dolores was now actually forced to socialize and "not be seen as rude" because she used to stay in her room too much. Earmuffs (that look like stylish earpieces) are mandatory for her if she has to socialize, luckily Mirabel made her some cute earmuffs for her to wear.

Overtime Isabela wasn't liking the attention being taken away from her and became distant. In her mind, they were all taking away her chance at becoming a Matriarch and making abuela proud.

Oh! New idea! Alma constantly holds the "you might become the future candle holder if you keep this up" trophy over them.

The other grandkids picked up hobbies to appease Alma. Camilo: Baking, sewing, and painting. Dolores: Writing, crafting, and ballet. Luisa: kindergarten volunteer, candle making, and knitting.

"H- Here you go Abuela, strawberry buñuelo's just how you like them" Camilo handed Alma the cookies. In return he got a thank you but he still couldn't help but doubt. Was it enough? should I make more? I hope they were decorated good enough…please be proud

When Antonio is born and grows up, he's still the same shy kid. But Alma, having five other perfect grandchildren, is teaching him how to be just like them after his ceremony.

Antonio (let's say two years after his ceremony), is started to mimic his siblings and primas behavior.

"I have to be mature, sit up straight, don't get dirty, help the town, be polite, become the future matriarch and make abuela proud"

Everything was fine, until Isabela's wedding day. just before she walks down the aisle, her whole life of suffering flashes before her eyes…and she snaps at the realization that her life wasn't her own.

she ran all the way from the church and to Casita. goes for the candle to snuff it out and fails, ending up getting shocked and scarred by it.

She figured she had enough time to write a letter to her primas and hermanas on what happened. Writing everything she could as fast as she could and left it in Mirabel's room marked as "Hermana's and primo's eyes only."

"To mi hermanas and primos, I'm so sorry I've been so distant with you and mean to you. Alma just molded me into something she wanted me to be since my ceremony day. She told me that if I stayed strong, independent, and perfect that I'll one day be a matriarch…like she told all of you. She stole my youth, stole yours, and is going to steal Antonio's youth if we let her…get the candle. It gave me scars but maybe, if you bide your time and plan correctly, you'll get the candle without it hurting you and maybe she'll listen to you. if not…destroy it, it's obviously the only thing she cares about if she doesn't want to hear your pain"

One after one, they all tried to reason with her...and ended up scarred and in a donkey barn...plotting the demise of the remaining madrigal adults, especially Alma's.

Additional info:

What about their parents?

What about Bruno?

What happened to Bruno?

How does Alma treat Julieta and Pepa?

Just a little insight on how messed up the kids really are in the au

Mannerisms

Designs and relationships

Playlist

Battle with own mind

Future outfits

See this version of Isabela's villain song as all the madrigal grandkids villain song.

@toaverse

[yellowcry]

We don't talk about Julieta

Garish' version of 'We don't talk about Bruno'

There's only lyrical part, maybe I'll make a сhoreography/what happens on the screen later, but no promises as I don't really know how to put everything down

[Pepa:]

We don't talk about Julieta, no, no, no

We don't talk about Julieta, but

It was at Mirabel's ceremony

[Félix:]

It was your sister's ceremony

[Pepa:]

We were getting ready

And there wasn't anything wrong

[Félix:]

Nothing could be wrong

[Pepa:]

Julieta walks out with an angry face

[Félix:]

Thunder

[Pepa:]

You're telling the story or am I?

[Félix:]

I'm sorry, mi vida, go on

[Pepa:]

Julieta says, "I won't leave her, no matter what"

[Félix:]

Why had she lie to us?

[Pepa:]

In doing so she broke our hearts

[Félix:]

Abuela gets explanation

[Pepa:]

The next day we found her nowhere

[Félix:]

What a upsetting story, but anyway

[Pepa & Félix:]

We don't talk about Julieta, no, no, no

We don't talk about Julieta

[Camilo:]

Hey, I loved the sound of her planned steaming

I can never hear her muttering or mumbling

I can tell her food was always best

Hey, it's good!

It's a nice lift with a skill so valuable

Always left the village and me comfortable

Grinding with the passion that we couldn't understand

Do you understand?

[Dolores:]

Never is blaring, always in the work

Talks in a caring, and gets to the dark

Yeah, she sees your fear and knows what to do

[Pepa & Camilo:]

We don't talk about Julieta, no, no, no

[Dolores:]

No, no

[Pepa & Camilo:]

We don't talk about Julieta

[Dolores:]

We don't talk about Julieta

[Townsperson 1:]

She knew my fish would die, did nothing at all

[Ensemble:]

No, no

[Townsperson 2:]

She said I'll grow a gut, and just how she said

[Ensemble:]

No, no

[Townsperson 3:]

She didn't give me food, just look at my head

[Ensemble:]

Hey!

No, no

Your fate is sealed when Julieta's jury complete

[Luisa:]

She told me that she loves me so much

Just like a mother should love her child

She told me my strength would launch

More than my mind can imagine

[Abuela Alma:]

Óye, Mariano's on his way

[Agustin:]

She told me I won't be alone

That there won't be a capstone

That we'll be together and ever

It's like I see her now

[Luisa:]

Hey sis, can you stay out of this?

[Agústin:]

It's like I can see him now, I wish I could see her now

[Isabela:]

Um, Julieta

Yeah, about my mama

I really need to know about Julieta

Give me the truth behind it all, Julieta

[Felix:]

Mija, your boyfriend's here

[Abuela Alma & Dolores:]

Time for dinner

[Dolores:]

Never is blaring, always in the work

[Pepa:]

It was at Mirabel's ceremony

[Félix:]

It was your sister's ceremony

[Luisa:]

She told me that she loves me so much

[Dolores:]

Talks in a caring, and gets to the dark

[Pepa:]

We were getting ready and nothing was wrong

[Félix:]

Nothing could go wrong

[Luisa and Isabela:]

Just like a mother should love her child

[Dolores:]

Yes, she sees your fear

[Pepa:]

Julieta walks out with an angry face

[Luisa:]

She told me my strength would launch

[Dolores:]

Knows what to do

[Félix:]

Thunder

[Pepa:]

You're telling the story or am I?

[Félix:]

I'm sorry mi vida go on

[Luisa:]

More than my mind can imagine

[Abuela Alma:]

Óye, Mariano's on his way

[Pepa:]

Julieta says, "I won't leave her, no matter what"

[Félix and Isabela:]

Why had she lie to us?

[Dolores:]

Never is blaring, always in the workk

[Luisa:]

She told me that she loves me so much, just like a mother should love her child

[Agustin:]

She told me I won't be alone, that there won't be a capstone

[Pepa:]

In doing so, she broke our hearts

[Félix:]

Abuela gets explanation

[Dolores:]

Talks in a caring, and gets to the dark

[Agustin:]

That we'll be together and ever, and ever...

[Dolores:]

Yeah, she sees your fear and knows what to do

[Pepa:]

The next day we found her nowhere

[Félix:]

What an upsetting story

[Agustin, Luisa, Mirabel and Isabela:]

And I'm fine, and I'm fine, and I'm fine, I'm fine

[Ensemble:]

He's here

Don't talk about Julieta

[Isabela:]

Okay, what the hell does it mean?

[Ensemble:]

Not a word about Julieta

[Isabela:]

Maybe I shouldn't have brought Julieta...