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MMS Mumbai Staff Car Driver Bharti 2022 - Mumbai Post Office Driver Naukri

MMS Mumbai Staff Car Driver Bharti 2022 – Mumbai Post Office Driver Naukri

Latest Mail Motor Service Mumbai Recruitment News Out. Department of Post, India has Published Notification for filling Seventeen (17) vacancies of Staff Car Driver (Ordinary Grade) for MMS Mumbai division on a Deputation/Absorption basis – Maharashtra Circle. Have a Good Chance For all Candidates Looking For Govt Jobs in Mumbai After the 10th Pass. MMS Mumbai Recruitment 2022 Job Recruitment…

[jaehyunfirstlove]

Hi, can i request for Jaehyun’s smut? Jaehyun as yn’s bodyguard who happened already have girlfriend.

Pairing: bodyguard!jaehyun x f.reader

Genre: a bit of angst, smut (18+ only)

Warnings: infidelity, oral sex (f. receiving), unprotected sex

Word count: 1.6k

A/N: this is the second bodyguard request i got, and i was considering connecting it to the first one but finally decided not to. anyways, hope you like it anon!

He was forbidden, and maybe that’s why you wanted him so badly. Forbidden, not only because he worked for your family, but also because he was taken.

But it didn’t make you want him less, in fact, it made you want him more. Not to mention that he was gorgeous, with looks that were known to stop women in their tracks, whispers amongst the household staff that you were already screwing him, so who were you to deny the truth to their rumors?

He was oh so respectable though, never an errant hand, not a hair out of place or a tie askew. He was all manners and formalities and ‘Miss this’ and ‘Miss that’, no deviation from the professionalism that your father had hired him for.

He didn’t even entertain calls or texts from his girlfriend during work hours, but you knew he’d get them, seeing his watch flash or hearing his phone buzz. His strict and steely demeanor was perfect for his job as a bodyguard, but you were dying to know what lay under that facade.

One night you decided to find out, calling him to say you were going out. He met you in the garage, ready to drive you as was customary. He stood by the car, hands clasped in front of him, looking as handsome as ever in his black suit. His hair was pushed back, just the way you liked it, with only a few strands falling onto his forehead.

“Jaehyun,” you nodded to him, getting into the back seat. He nodded back to you before he got into the driver’s side and pulled out of the garage.

You instructed him to drive, giving him directions here and there, until you reached your destination; an outlook outside the city, popular amongst anyone looking for an illicit tryst.

Jaehyun parked the car and waited for further instruction, not bothering to turn to you or ask. You leaned forward and whispered in his ear. “Please join me in the back seat.”

He didn’t flinch or question your instruction, just joined you as instructed, sliding into the seat with you and closing the door behind him. You studied his face, the sharpness of his jaw, the smooth lines of his milky skin. He didn’t meet your gaze yet, his face just turning to you when you heard his phone buzz. As usual, he didn’t pay any attention to it.

“Your girlfriend?” you asked, and he just nodded.

“Does she know you’re with me?” you asked, your tone matter-of-fact, and he nodded again.

Deciding to test the waters, you reached out and placed a hand on his knee. He didn’t recoil, didn’t really react, and this emboldened you. “Does she know… what we’re doing?”

He paused, and for the first time you saw a crack in the façade. He was almost hesitant to speak, but when he finally did, it was just to say a simple ‘no’.

“Would you tell her,” you continued, your hand moving up his thigh, “if we did anything we shouldn’t?”

“Like what, Miss L/N?” he asked. His voice was steady, but you could see a glint of something in his eye.

“Like, maybe if I went further than here,” you’d stopped your hand, so close to the bulge that was forming in his pants.

“I don’t need to disclose anything I do at work,” he responded, voice still steady, but a smirk was forming on his lips. You moved your hand then, cupping his impressive bulge, and the façade all but fell away. His eyes grew dark, and before you knew what was happening he had you on your back, pinning you to the seat with the weight of his body. All breath left you when he started to attack your throat, licking and sucking on your skin.

“Is this what you wanted, Miss L/N?” his breath was hot against your neck, your hand still cupping his bulge so you squeezed. He hissed, his hands getting even rougher on you.

“Yes, Jaehyun,” you moaned, loving the way he was manhandling you, “but please call me Y/N.”

“Yes, miss Y/N,” he responded smoothly, hands roaming over your curves.

“No, just Y/N…” you were trying to correct him, trying to make everything more intimate than it was, not wanting him to think it was part of his duty to fuck you, but his touch was rendering you mindless, pleasure taking over all the rational parts of your brain.

“Y/N,” he finally murmured, your name so beautiful on his tongue that it made your heart stutter. He kissed down your chest, the low neckline of your shirt allowing him ample access to your cleavage, his hands going under the hem to relieve you of your bra. Once your breasts were bared to him he attacked the nipples hungrily, sucking each one into his mouth and releasing them with a popping sound, the feeling making you gasp out loud.

“Do you want more?” he asked, when you were panting, your hair mussed and makeup smudged, looking fucked out already and all he did was kiss you and suck on your nipples.

“Mm,” you nodded, biting your lip as he started to remove your pants and underwear. He put an arm under each knee and yanked you towards him, leaning down to eat you out.

Your back arched off the seat, hands clawing at the leather as he licked voraciously, the sounds he was making loud and obscene in the confines of the backseat. You were a whimpering, whining, moaning mess, his tongue pulling orgasm after orgasm out of you. He seemed to have infinite stamina, still going until you had to weakly push at his head when you’d had too much. Somewhere in the back of your head you were extremely jealous of his girlfriend, who could enjoy this whenever she wanted, and not secretly, in the backseat of a car at some shady lookout point.

“I don’t have a condom, miss- Y/N,” he said in his usual level tone. You knew this should have stopped you, but you wanted him too badly.

“I trust you,” you shrugged, “I’m clean, and I’ve had an IUD for years.”

He paused for only a second, most likely going through the same thought process you had gone through, and also coming to the same conclusion. You reached over and undid his pants for him, pulling the waistband of his boxers down and freeing his cock. You couldn’t help but lick your lips at the sight of it, a beautiful cock for a beautiful man.

“Come here and fuck me, Jaehyun,” you commanded, and he nodded, a dark look in his eyes as he leaned over you

“Can I kiss you, miss Y/N?” he asked, but his face was so close to yours he might as well have been. You just answered by capturing his bottom lip lightly with your teeth, then sucking on it, making him groan into your mouth and slide into you at the same time.

You’d often wondered what he would feel like inside you, when you would masturbate in the shower you would think of his cock and how it must feel, but nothing prepared you for the real thing. He was rock hard, and he filled you so full you thought you would burst, but that wasn’t all. You already knew his stamina was off the charts, but it was the way he would snap his hips, or angle your hips a certain way so he could hit you exactly where he wanted, exactly in that spot that made you scream his name.

“You like it?” he groaned as he pounded into you, “you like my cock?”

“Yes, Jaehyun,” you moaned, barely able to speak with the way his thrusts took your breath away. He brought your knees up to your chest and pounded even harder, the car filled with the sounds of your moans as you reached your high, your legs shaking and pussy clenching. Jaehyun went even harder after you came, chasing his own high, the sexiest grunts emanating from his throat as he railed you.

“Can I come inside you?” he asked, his voice a deep rumble against your chest.

“Yes, fuck, yes,” you almost screamed, feeling another orgasm hit you. He came then, his hands squeezing your ass to bring you even closer to him, to get even deeper inside you, spilling his cum until you were full with it, until it was leaking down your thighs and onto the leather seats.

You breathed heavily against each other for a while, until he finally pulled himself off of you. A part of you hated it, a part of you wanted him to hold you a while longer, a part of you wanted him to spend the night, to wake up in his arms. A part of you just wanted him. You stared out the window at the stars, feeling jealous of his girlfriend again, as he dressed quietly. When he was done he stayed where he was, presumably waiting for your next command.

“Thank you, Jaehyun,” you said coldly, trying to mask the emotion in your voice. “We can go now.”

He hesitated, and for a moment the professional demeanor wavered. “Are you okay, Y/N?”

You looked at him, at the soft look in his eyes, and you wanted so much for him just to take you in his arms again. But his phone buzzed at that moment, and you knew exactly who it was.

“Take the call, Jaehyun,” you said quietly, “I’m okay.”

---

Thanks for 1.4k :)

[coping-via-clint-eastwood]

Bug Men - Gil Grissom x Reader

(A/N: PSA:  Numb is a very good song to listen to while writing. Who knew; the push I needed to finish this was a peaceful sit down at Starbucks, with Numb playing in the background {from my device}, heh.  Warning - Gil and Nick eat flies. Also, I am desperately touch-starved in this one.

@addictedtostorytelling thank you for your long-lasting patience 🙏)

"Goodbye, Grissom," Jim bade to the person clocking out.

You smiled at him, "Goodbye."  You were a detective assigned to the crime lab's graveyard shift, and the wife of Gil Grissom.  As soon as you stepped outside of the police station, you saw Gil.  "Hey," you smiled, walking towards him.

"Hi." He was smiling too as he walked to you, which was nice.  You let yourself get smothered in his embrace; you smelt of the same corpse anyway, just not as strongly as him.  You let out an, "Mmmmmffff..." as you buried your face in his chest, eagerly wrapping your arms around his waist; he placed one arm around your upper back and the other around your waist and tightened their hold, as you liked it, chuckling at your sound. You abruptly broke away from him and dragged him to a recess which you knew nobody would pass, and was in the blind spot of the security camera. (How convenient.) You gripped the collar if his jacket and pulled his upper torso and head down, so that his lips slammed onto yours. He quickly caught hold of your elbows to prevent himself from falling, his eyebrows jumping up in surprise.  He ran short of breath almost instantly and forcefully yanked his head back, wheezing.  "Antsy," he panted.

"Mm...I've missed you all damn day..." you rumbled, wrapping your arms around his neck, and he snaked his own forelimbs around your waist in turn.  You kissed the corner of his mouth since you had to let him breathe.

"But you worked with me all night."  He stood still and appreciated your affection.

"No..."  You were kissing along his beard up his jaw as you spoke.  "I ran around and collected information and brought in suspects for you. You were mostly in the lab." You had reached his ear; you gently kissed the bottommost area of its shell. You had always kissed his ears a lot to reassure him when he was feeling bad about his hearing loss, and even after his surgery it was something that stayed.

He closed his eyes and sighed as he leant into your touch. "I've gotten my breath back..." he murmured, hinting at what he wanted.  You brought your face in front of his again and kissed him again, gentler this time.  You tried your best to restrain your eagerness.  Fortunately, he pulled you closer and increased the pressure of his lips on yours, giving you the go-ahead. You let out a choked gasp when he did that, which was immediately followed by a whimper.  You used your whole body to push him, backing him up against the wall.  You used your hips to pin his to the wall, so that your hands could roam his torso. He held you and let you do what you wanted, letting himself enjoy the sensations. But he remembered something that was at hand and said softly, "Nick is waiting." The two of you were to go for breakfast with Nick. You let out a soft whine in protest, but gave him one last kiss and reluctantly pulled away.

You tried to smile, and not come off as disappointed as you were.  "Hello Nick."

But, he was good as his job.  His grin turned playful as he cocked an eyebrow.  "Did I interrupt something?"

"Yes..." you said ruefully, eyes downcast.  Gil smiled kindly and petted your back.

"You guys ready to go?"  Nick asked.

"Yes," your husband replied, looking at you.

You bobbed your head a few times, still looking down at the floor, eventually letting out a, "Yeah."  With that, Gil pushed you to his car (which he had sent you to the station in that night) and opened the driver's seat's door for you.  He knew by now that your grumbling noise was a 'thank you'.  He got in the front passenger's seat; Nick sat behind his own steering wheel. After everyone wore their seatbelts, Nick and you started driving. Throughout the whole ride, Gil kept nuzzling you, petting your thigh, kissing your cheek, and so on, making you smile.

The ride passed quickly and pleasantly this way. The three of you entered the diner and sat at the long table that was mounted all along the wall. You were on the left, Gil next to you, and Nick on his boss' right.  You ordered a chocolate muffin and chocolate to drink, Grissom ordered oatmeal and tea, and Nick ordered porridge and decaffeinated coffee.  Nick made most of the small talk, with you occasionally chipping in with a sound of acknowledgment, and Gil remained completely silent unless he was directly spoken to. The food came soon enough.  You heartily sank your teeth into the muffin, closing your eyes and humming, savouring its sweetness.

The conversation carried on with relative normalcy (well, as much normalcy - and grace - as was possible with constant refrains for eating) two flies landed and drowned in Nick's and Gil's foods, one in each. "Ugh..." you vocalised. However, the two men just looked at each other and spooned the insects into their mouths. "WHAT!" you exclaimed, flinching. Fortunately, there were no other patrons at the diner that early in the morning, so nobody stared at you; the staff did not care. Still, you remembered to lower your volume. "Ew!" you asserted in a harsh whisper. Your husband grinned mischievously at you. You sighed heavily and looked away, giving in to how adorable he was.

Nick got up from his seat.  "I gotta use the bathroom."  He left.

You were still looking away, with your chin resting on the crook of your elbow.  So you were unaware of anything Gil was doing until you felt his chin rubbing over your shoulder, his face coming towards yours.  "A-a-a!"  you exclaimed, jerking your head away and putting a hand over his forehead and nose to gently push him away, keeping clear of his mouth.  "You aren't allowed to kiss me until after you brush your teeth!"

He chuckled and leant back slightly. "Okay. Can I have a kiss then?" You happily kissed his cheek.

The both of you pulled away just before Nick exited the restroom.  He took his seat.  Again, he noticed that something had happened.  "I see the look on your faces.  What did you guys do?"  It was true that you both were sort of beaming now.

"I just kissed his cheek. That's all," you answered, looking away; you were facing the wall and smiling stupidly. Gil was, as usual, frozen.

"Really? From the way you two are carrying on, it seems as if more than just that happened."

You turned back to Nick at that.  "He's not allowed to kiss me until he brushes his teeth."

Nick chuckled.  "That makes sense."

"Yep."

"You know you guys can eat?"

You ducked your noggin and gently bumped your forehead on Gil's shoulder.  He was literally jerked out of his swirling mind. His head snapped to look at you. "Eat," you giggled at his dazed expression. He robotically did as you suggested.

Breakfast passed amicably. Nick paid for his own food, while Gil paid for his and yours because you shared earnings. Outside the diner, you hugged Nick, because unlike your husband, you enjoyed hugs irregardless of whether you were in public or privacy. Whereas the said husband just bade Nick goodbye with word of mouth.  Once again, Gil had his hand on your elbow as he escorted you to his car, bringing you to the front passenger's door this time. He took the keys out of your pocket, unlocked the doors and opened yours for you. You kissed his cheek in thanks before sitting down. He closed your door and made his way to the driver's seat.

As soon as Gil parked, you jumped out of the car and waited for him to take his kit. "I can't wait to shower," you said.

"We should shower only after we walk Hank, so we'll be relaxed fully."

"But I'm so tired..."

"So am I, but hold on for a little longer."

You pushed opened the door and squatted down to greet a waiting Hank. "Hey boy." You fondled his ears, then stroked his sides. He gave your face gentle licks. Gil squatted next to you and pet Hank as well. The dog barked and routinely turned from one human to another, making sure that he gave them equal affection.

Gil stood up first, so you followed suit.  While he went to put his kit away, you brought Hank to the kitchen.  You sighed with the effort of squatting again as you set out the dog food.  "Okay love, eat up, and then we can go for walkies."  Hank gave an enthusiastic bark and ate his food quickly but cleanly.

Not too long a time later, you looked up at the sound of Gil's approaching footsteps over Hank's chewing.  "Stand up," he directed as he walked towards you.  You did.  As soon as he was near enough, he put a hand on the back of your head and kissed the corner of your mouth, his other hand on your lower back, your hands immediately holding his shoulders. You sighed and closed your eyes at the minty scent of the toothpaste. You tried to kiss him properly, but he pushed you back, mocking you, "A-a, if you want more, go and brush your teeth."

You whined. "This is extortion."

"I'm just asking you to brush your teeth. Go," he scolded playfully, pushing you away. You nipped to do as he said and back at an embarrassingly desperate speed. Gil had cleaned and was just putting Hank's bowl away. That was fast," he teased.

"Shut up and kiss me," you grumbled, grabbing his shoulders and pulling him down. He chuckled as his lips crashed onto yours, but gave you what you wanted. He gripped your elbows to prevent himself from toppling over.  You pressed your lips hard against his; he had prepared and taken a deep breath this time so he could let you kiss him without having to interrupt you.

In fact it was you who had to pull back for breath first this time. Eyes shut, you leant your forehead against his, cradling the back of his head with one hand, the other still on his shoulder. He rubbed your back delicately. "Satisfied?" he mumbled.

"Yes," you laughed breathily. You slowly moved back from him, letting him go at last.  You turned around to see that Hank had removed himself from the area. Gil and you burst out laughing. You turned your heads to see that Hank was resting behind the front door.  You raced towards him, with Gil following as fast as he could.  "Come on Hank," you chirped as you opened the door.  He got onto his paws and padded out behind you, with Gil trailing behind.  While you locked the door, the other human went to open the side gate, and shut it once everyone was through, leaving it unlocked.

As usual, Hank picked the path, taking his time and sniffing anything that interested him.  Gil strolled along with his hands in his pockets; you put your arm in between one of his and his body, and rested your head on his shoulder.  "Still tired?"  he asked you.

"Yeah..."  you sighed.

"How about we bathe when we get home? You and me in the tub, together." He knew that that would most likely cheer you up.

You smiled. "I'd like that."  There was unspoken finality from him.

The old boxer completed one circumference of the housing area. He pushed his way through the gate.  Gil went through after him, leaving you to lock the gate.  Once in the house, Gil and you made a beeline for the bedroom, leaving Hank to do as he pleased.  You took off your clothes and dropped them on top of Gil's in the laundry basket. He plugged he tub snd turned the tap on, then just stood next to the tub, watching the water. You wrapped your arms around his neck from behind, resting the side of your head on his back with your eyes closed. He absentmindedly held and fondled your hands with one of his. A gentle tug on your hands signalled that the tub was filled to a satisfactory level. Gil stepped out of your arms and got in, sitting with his back against the side lengthwise. You sat between his legs, leaning backwards on him. He had his nose and mouth in your hair. "...you smell horrible."

"Speak! For yourself!" you interjected playfully, turning around halfway to look at him. He tittered.  He fastened his arms around your waist, holding you tightly against him so that you could not move.  You did not protest as you leant into his touch. For a few savoury moments, the two of you just remained still, cuddling like that.

[cheri-translates]

[CN] S2 Gavin - Saving the Young Troublemaker Project (Eng Translation)

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a company program which has not been released in other servers!🍒

This post features S2 Gavin and one reference to Ch 2 of the S2 main storyline ( ´ ▽ ` )

It contains characters introduced in The STF Filming Plan, so be sure to check that out first!

[ CHAPTER ONE ]

Early in the morning, staff from the company and government employees are seated in the meeting room, eyes fixed on the large words on the screen and in deep contemplation--

“Saving The Young Troublemaker Project”.

Willow: What do you think causes this bunch of high schoolers to spend their day behaving poorly, and not engaging in honest work?

Kiki: It’s definitely the impulsive rebelliousness of youth, and the excessive secretion of hormones.

Minor: Wrong. It’s the chasing of recognition from peers, and the adoration of females.

Willow: ...just how deep of a misunderstanding do you have regarding the tastes of women?

The few people in front of the screen continue their endless bickering. I return my gaze to the program proposal booklet, letting out a troubled sigh. 

What exactly happened goes back to the previous filming.

During the previous filming, that absconding Evol criminal was arrested successfully. But the youth who had brought trouble upon himself became a hot topic shortly after.

Government employee: ...to be more precise, we received many complaints from citizens regarding this group of troublesome youths.

MC: “This group”?

The man places a file on the table in front of me. 

It turns out that this youth is the leader of a notorious group of drag racers.

This group of drag racers often ride illegally modified motorcycles with large engines around various blocks, causing a great disturbance to citizens.

The most shocking thing is that this bunch mostly comprise of minors under the age of eighteen.

Government employee: This proposal has a deterrence and educational function for Evol criminals who are minors. And the contents of the shoot are pretty stress-free. What does Miss MC think?

I flip through the file on the table. 

The male lead of this film is the head of the group - a minor Evolver called Ah Yang.

The youth in the photograph has exaggerated spiky hair, and is leaning against a modified motorcycle donning a riot of colours. It’s as though he’s from a rebel youth motorcycle group often featured in Japanese dramas.

Willow: Why did he agree to collaborate with us for the filming?

MC: He probably wants to be in the limelight. Judging from his appearance, he’s definitely someone who cares a lot about being noticed.

Kiki: His Evol is to temporarily increase the speed of an object. No wonder he joined a drag racing gang. Boss, just to be safe, let’s contact the STF and have them arrange for an officer to stay in contact with us. After all, he is an Evolver.

MC: Mm, we should request for the STF’s help.

Kiki: Want to contact Captain Gavin? I felt like the both of you had a lot of rapport during the previous operation!

MC: The program this time doesn’t involve a serious Evol crime. If the Special Operations Team steps in, it’d be using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.

Kiki: I’ve got it. I’ll notify the others about it!

While walking out of the meeting room, I glance at the dark and gloomy weather outside, as though it’s declaring something.

Perhaps this filming job would be even more difficult than imagined...

-

[ CHAPTER TWO ]

On the first day of the shoot, we meet the troublemaker called “Ah Yang”.

Although he has tried to dress in a mature manner, the seventeen-year-old childishness on his face cannot be concealed.

Ah Yang: This area is our turf. We seized it from the group in High School C the last time.

Looking in the direction Ah Yang is pointing at, I see an abandoned, empty area across the street, which is surrounded by dilapidated residential buildings.

Aside from a few colourful and ferocious graffiti, the walls have been sprayed with the words “Street Racing is Prohibited” in large font. It appears that the citizens in the vicinity have been greatly disturbed.

MC: Isn’t this the place where that incident happened...

I mumble softly. To maintain the pride of this young high schooler, I decide not to bring up that matter. 

However, Ah Yang doesn’t seem to pay any heed to it. He faces the camera and snaps his fingers proudly.

After we’ve set up the cameras and are prepared to film, the ground beneath our feet suddenly trembles.

From afar, a few young people are riding motorcycles on the street in an unbridled manner, leaving clouds of dust flying in the air.

MC: Do you know those people?

Ah Yang: Of course I do. They’re my little bros.

I signal to the photographer to focus the camera on the impending motorcycle group. The high decibel noises from the engines are truly a disturbance to the community.

??: Bro! We’re here to pick you up!

MC: ?

Before I can figure out what’s going on, Ah Yang has agilely hoped onto one of the motorcycles.

By the time I realise that he’s escaping, the motorcycle has already been driven off far away.

Sitting on the backseat, he looks proud and elated, pulling a face at us.

Ah Yang: It was your company’s fault for making me lose face the last time!

MC: Didn’t we already pixelate your face!

Ah Yang: At any rate, it’s because of your program that the case got so much attention! Now it’s your turn to lose face, hahaha!

His flippant laugher grows faint into the distance, the motorcycles disappearing, dust in their wake.

Minor: Boss, we can't let him get away!

MC: That goes without saying!

Minor rubs his aching back, makes a prompt decision, and tosses his car keys to me.

Minor: Hurry and chase after him!

-

Even after driving and chasing them down, I lose them easily each time I finally manage to catch up to them.

In the end, the car enters a quiet road.

The motorcycle in front slows down, and I release a sigh. However, Ah Yang pulls a face at me from the backseat. 

MC: Stop!

The sleek motorcycles very quickly enter a small alley, leaving behind only noise.

The car draws to a halt at the mouth of the alley. I push the door open, planning to chase them directly on foot. But I’m stopped by an uncle.

Uncle selling vegetables: Miss, you can’t park your car here. 

MC: I’m really sorry about it. I’ll drive away right now...

??: MC?

I freeze at the sound of this all-too-familiar voice.

The chimes from the convenience store drift to my ears. The afternoon street is very quiet. Gavin suddenly walks towards me, stepping across mottled shadows.

He’s carrying a shopping bag in his left hand, while a set of keys dangle from his right.

I take a deep breath. Stepping out of the car, I prepare to greet him.

MC: Gavin, what a coincidence. Why are you here too?

Gavin: This is near my place.

MC: ...is that so.

No wonder I found the buildings in the area so familiar...

Gavin: What are you doing here?

I hesitate for a moment before giving him an honest account of everything that has transpired.

MC: Since I can’t park here, I’ll have to end our conversation now, or I wouldn’t be able to catch them.

Gavin: They drove into the alley. You won’t be able to pass through with a car.

MC: I plan to find the exit and block them directly. That way, my chances of succeeding will be even higher.

Gavin: Are you very familiar with the roads here?

MC: ...not really.

Gavin frowns slightly, as though contemplating something seriously.

He suddenly walks to the front of the car, pulls open the door, and settles into the driver’s seat.

MC: You...

Gavin holds the steering wheel, his foot on the accelerator.

Gavin: Get in. I’ll help you chase after them.

-

The car courses through a few shortcuts. Like a miracle, the youths who had lost us before appear in our line of sight.

The youths have clearly never faced such a strong opponent, and they are left behind one by one.

We chase after the motorcycle that Ah Yang is on.

Gavin turns the steering wheel with one hand, and the car drifts towards the entrance of the alley, blocking their path.

Ah Yang sees the leisurely pose of Gavin, and exclaims indignantly at me.

Ah Yang: Why did you call in reinforcements!

MC: You were the one who fled without saying a word!

Ah Yang purses his lips, as though he doesn’t realise what he has done wrong.

MC: I don’t want to waste my breath on you. You can either cooperate with the filming of my program, or cooperate with the STF and be put under supervision so you don’t cause trouble for others.

Ah Yang: Tch, you caused me so much embarrassment. Don't even think that I’d cooperate with you!

We glare at each other, neither of us backing down. Deep down, I know that even if I were to bring Ah Yang back by force today, he would still find an opportunity to slip away.

An insuppressible smile flashes across Gavin’s lips. I look towards him a little despondently, and he immediately faces away.

Gavin: How about this. Let’s make a bet. Don’t you like drag racing? We’ll have a competition.

Ah Yang: Really? You said it yourself. 

An excited expression surfaces on Ah Yang’s face, and he agrees.

Ah Yang: You should know that there’s a motorcycle racing track at Qing Ping mountain. A total of 20km from West to East. We’ll go there to compete. Whoever reaches the end first wins. How’s that?

Gavin nods lightly.

Gavin: What if you lose?

Ah Yang: Then I’ll properly comply with the Evol-use regulations, and cooperate with your program. This producer will be our witness!

Gavin: No problem.

MC: Did either of you ask for my opinion....

Ah Yang casts an appreciative glance at Gavin, then speaks to me in an earnest voice.

Ah Yang: This bro of yours isn’t bad. He knows things. You should learn too.

MC: ...

Very soon, the motorcycles disappear into the small alley.

Gavin: If there’s nothing else, I’ll head back first. 

MC: I do have something. 

I come to my senses, and something occurs to me. My gaze falls on the plastic bag in Gavin’s left hand, and I can’t help but smile.

MC: Captain Gavin, eating cup noodles is really bad for your body. Let me treat you to a meal.

-

[ CHAPTER THREE ]

In order to make progress with the filming, I contact the person responsible for being the middleman, Officer Xiao Zheng, and prepare to discuss matters concerning the shoot with him.

The moment I step into STF, familiar voices drift from behind me.

I turn around, meeting Gavin’s eyes directly.

He has just walked out of the office. My footsteps pause, and I lift my hand casually to greet him.

Gavin: The time we agreed to isn’t today. 

MC: I know. Actually, the reason I’m here today...

Gavin: Without a prior appointment, you shouldn’t be here.

MC: You’ve misunderstood. I’m really here to look for...

??: Miss MC, you’re here!

An enthusiastic voice interrupts our conversation. Gavin and I turn around at the same time.

Stepping out of the meeting room, Xiao Zheng brisk walks towards me. When he sees Gavin, he freezes slightly, and immediately salutes.

Xiao Zheng: Captain Gavin!

MC: ...I’m here to look for Officer Xiao Zheng.

I lift up the materials in my hand, standing next to Xiao Zheng to signal my innocence.

Xiao Zheng: That’s right. Miss MC is here to discuss the collaborative filming proposal with us. Does Captain Gavin require verification? 

While he speaks, Xiao Zheng hands him materials pertaining to the shooting proposal.

Gavin is silent for a few seconds. He takes the materials, his lowered eyes stern as he looks through the documents on hand.

Perhaps not expecting Gavin to care about such trivial matters, Xiao Zheng’s expression turns slightly panicked.

Xiao Zheng: The film we’re collaborating with [MC’s Company Name] this time is for a trivial case, so I didn’t inform you.

Gavin: Got it. 

Gavin closes the file, handing it to Xiao Zheng.

Gavin: The next time this producer honours us with her presence, notify me immediately.

MC: ...

After Gavin leaves, Xiao Zheng releases a long breath, still fluttering with fear. Seeing that I'm rooted to the spot, he hurriedly explains.

Xiao Zheng: Captain Gavin has always been like that. Ever since he was transferred to Loveland City, he has been personally handling every Evol criminal case. Miss MC, you don’t need to think about it too much. Captain Gavin definitely doesn’t have anything against you.

I smile wryly.

MC: That’s fine. Let’s talk about official business. You’re aware of what happened. How do you think we should deal with this group of troublemakers?

Xiao Zheng: I can only think of Captain Gavin’s iron handed training. If he attends to the matter personally, he can definitely train that group of brats into submission. 

MC: In that case... they should experience sufficient hardship.

When I bring up the bet Gavin and Ah Yang made, Xiao Zheng widens his eyes in shock.

Xiao Zheng: Captain Gavin actually agreed to compete in drag racing with that bunch of ruffians? He doesn’t even agree to compete in shooting with Xiao Kong from the team!

MC: ...mm, maybe it was to preserve the other party’s self-esteem.

Xiao Zheng: ...cough, the topic has digressed. But that bunch of troublemakers ought to be taught a proper lesson. Evol isn’t a tool for showing off.

After saying this, Xiao Zheng’s expression turns serious.

Xiao Zheng: We’ve all been through that age, thinking that having Evol was something amazing, and that being a troublemaking teen was a man’s only badge of honour. After enrolling in the police academy, and then coming to STF, my attitude changed. If one were to do everything based on the hot-bloodedness of youth, and just keep rushing forward without a care in the world, it’s easy to end up with broken bones.

Although Gavin’s method of resolving the issue is unorthodox, it’s indeed the best method from what I can see.

Only by peeling away their arrogance would they know the peril of wandering around and living wilfully.

Xiao Zheng and I exchange a glance, then sigh at the same time when we think about the fate awaiting the group of troublemakers.

-

[ CHAPTER FOUR ]

There’s a new email:

Title: Saving the Young Troublemaker Project

Sender: Gavin

Recipient: MC

Contents: I’ll see you the day after tomorrow at 10am, the West entrance of Qing Ping mountain. For safety purposes, it’s best not to wear a skirt. Don’t wear high heels either.

-

[ CHAPTER FIVE ]

The arranged date arrives quickly.

As scheduled, Gavin and I meet. A group of youths are dressed in leather outfits and long boots, standing conspicuously at the starting point of the race course. Behind them are a line of motorcycles with large engines.

Right in the middle is Ah Yang, who looks expectant and eager.

Ah Yang: Hey, are you ready? We’re going to start soon, stop dawdling.

Gavin nods. When he sees that I‘ve consciously slipped to the side, near the waiting area, an astonished expression crosses his features.

Gavin: Why aren’t you getting on?

MC: I have to get on too?!

Gavin: Didn’t we agree that you’d be the witness? There was heavy rain this afternoon, and the mountain road is slippery. Do you plan to walk back in the rain?

MC: Won’t the speed be affected if there are two people?

Gavin: It won’t affect me.

Gavin lifts his eyes to look at the group of youths. His tone is incredibly relaxed and confident.

Gavin: Put this on.

He suddenly tosses a helmet to me from behind.

After wearing the helmet, I get onto the backseat of the motorcycle, and actually feel slightly nervous.

The race track spans 20km, and is a course hobbyists use for practice.

There isn’t anything especially difficult about it, but the rain from yesterday has caused the track to be slightly slippery, which would demand some level of skill from drivers.

One of the youths, who has taken on the job of a judge, has already raised a timer up high, beginning the countdown.

Gavin: We’ll win.

With a soft “mm”, I grip the frame of the motorcycle tightly.

Judge: Go--!

With the blow of a whistle, the tremendous sound of engines almost burst my eardrums.

From the start, Ah Yang grips the clutch violently and accelerates, very quickly putting distance between us.

No wonder a high schooler like Ah Yang can be a core member of this group of out-of-control youths.

MC:  He did use Evol! Isn’t this going against the rules?

Gavin: We can use it too.

MC: ?

Gavin: Hold tight. Don’t let go.

MC: ...!!!

The motorcycle goes even faster and swifter than before. Powerful gusts of wind rush past, and my heart beats violently against my eardrums.

As though I’m grasping at my last hope, I hug Gavin tightly, feeling like my entire body is on the verge of getting flung off.

A powerful gale suddenly whips up on the race course, causing dust to billow.

After the attack of this strong wind, Ah Yang’s motorcycle slows down, closing the distance between us.

What awaits us are consecutive turns. Ah Yang isn’t an excellent racer, and will inevitably reduce his speed. It’s also our chance to turn the tide in our favour.

Gavin seems to think the same way. When Ah Yang slows down, he immediately sends the motorcycle rushing forward.

I instinctively wrap my arms around Gavin’s waist tightly.

Perhaps seeing the figure of the motorcycle gradually coming closer in the rearview mirror, Ah Yang frantically grips the clutch.

With a loud screech from the front, the motorcycle skids on the slippery road, and suddenly plummets!

MC: Oh no!

Right after the words leave my mouth, both the motorcycle and Ah Yang have been forced into the col. 

Gavin leaves Sparky at the side of the path. I disembark, rushing over to the cliff.

Ah Yang is seized with terror, stuck on the motorcycle. The branches underneath him are about to snap under his weight.

I run to the side of the col, my ankle accidentally getting cut by the branches. I furrow my brows, but don’t give much thought to it.

Ah Yang: Save me!!

MC: Don’t panic, and don’t move.

Gavin follows behind me unhurriedly, his lips curled into a taunting smile.

With just a lift of his fingers, a gust of wind spirals from below, returning Ah Yang and the motorcycle back onto the track.

The youth scowls, getting to his feet while trembling. When he lifts his head and sees Gavin’s calm expression, his anger reaches its boiling point.

Ah Yang: Hey, you were the one who caused the wind just now!

Gavin doesn’t deny it. He bends down and checks his body for injuries.

Ah Yang: Ouch ouch ouch ouch... be more gentle!

Gavin: Not many injuries, so you can get up. The motorcycle isn’t broken, and it can still be used.

Ah Yang: W-what happened today was an accident. Should we compete again another day...

Gavin: A competition is a competition.

Ah Yang: But you--

MC: You also secretly used your Evol earlier. I’m not wrong, am I?

Ah Yang’s words are lodged in his throat. He draws in his neck, no longer arguing.

The competition ends without suspense. Gavin and I reach the goal first.

Only after half an hour does Ah Yang appear at the finishing line with his head and face covered in dirt as he holds onto the motorcycle.

Ah Yang: ...I’m wiling to admit defeat, and will cooperate with the program filming...

After saying this, Ah Yang purses his lips. Gavin looks him over coldly.

Gavin: How old are you this year?

Ah Yang: Twenty.

Under Gavin’s chilly gaze, the youth gloomily changes his answer.

Ah Yang: N-next month, I’ll be eighteen.

Gavin: Do you think you’re being very cool like this?

After a moment of hesitation, Ah Yang nods vigorously.

Gavin: If you don’t cherish your own life, no one will be kind enough to rescue you the next time you throw it away.

Ah Yang: ...so what? The poetic thing about men is that even when they die, they die on the streets.

Ah Yang remains obstinate, but it’s evident that the fear from the earlier accident lingers in his heart. 

MC: According to my investigations, the Street Office received noise complaints from citizens because of you guys. And last month, there was a serious traffic congestion and car accident because of the speeding. The fortunate thing is that no one was hurt, or else you wouldn’t just be placed under supervision.

His expression displays a mix of anger and fright.

Gavin walks forward and unplugs the key. Then, he removes the Go pro camera at the front of the motorcycle, tossing it to me.

Gavin: Don’t forget to retrieve the materials. 

MC: Many thanks!

Gavin: Let’s go. 

Gavin walks back to Sparky. I put on the helmet and sit on the backseat. 

Ah Yang: Hey! If you’re taking the key, how do I go back?

Gavin grips the clutch. The humming of the engine covers Ah Yang’s grievances.

Gavin: You seem quite familiar with the streets. Walk back on your own. Enjoy being poetic by yourself.

-

Once again sitting on the backseat of the motorcycle, I’m wearing a helmet, encircling my arms around Gavin’s waist in a practised manner.

MC: I didn’t expect you to really drive Sparky here.

Gavin: How did you know its name?

MC: ...it was a random guess based on its colour.

[Note] In Chinese, Sparky’s name is 小黑 (“xiao hei” - Little Black)

I pluck a reason from the air to dodge the question, but can’t help but grumble in my heart: I don’t just know Sparky. I even know Greenie, Pearly, Thorny...

MC: But I think I suddenly understand why he likes drag racing.

I lift my head, feeling the pleasure of the mountain breeze brushing across my face.

MC: It’s not only exciting, but it’s quite effective in alleviating stress...

Gavin: ...

Gavin: hold tight.

Gavin uses a very light tone of voice. When I see the downhill slope before us which is so long that I can’t see the end, I suddenly realise something.

MC: I'm holding tight!

The setting sun illuminates the empty mountain path. In the wind, the ends of his hair are blown up in a high-spirited manner.

The whistling wind brushes across my ears, as though blowing memories from the past into my mind.

-

[ Chapter Six ] 

It has been half a month since the program went live. 

After that painful lesson, Ah Yang became more well-behaved. All the other members who were led by him also exercised much more restraint.

Kiki: No way, just one competition was enough for them to lead a good and honest life?

Of course it wasn’t just this. After what happened, Ah Yang also had a taste of the special officers’ actual combat through video recordings. Seeing the carnage left him docile soon after.

But that’s all in the past. 

At the end of the program, the youth sincerely mended his ways, and expressed that he’d willingly be supervised by STF.

At the same time, he will also set a good example to people of his age, so that they would not take advantage of their Evol to commit rebellious acts.

He even said that after meeting an STF officer of noble character, he changed his life goal, and wants to become an honourable Evol special officer after graduation!

The audience in the office cheer in response to the completed job. At this moment, the office telephone rings, and I answer it.

Xiao Zheng: Hello? Is this Miss MC? I still have a few issues. When would be a good time to drop by?

MC: Sure, I can drop by this afternoon.

When I push open the door to the meeting room, I don’t see Xiao Zheng. Instead, I see someone who I couldn’t be more familiar with. 

Gavin is seated at the end of the meeting room, as though he had already predicted that I would be coming.

He pushes the chair and stands up. Without a turn of his head, he tosses out a sentence.

Gavin: Come with me first.

MC: Is there something urgent?

My mind takes a while to respond. Finally, I choose to follow after Gavin.

Stepping into Gavin’s office, I stand at the doorway, somewhat at a loss since I have no idea what he wants to do.

Gavin doesn’t speak. He pulls open a drawer, retrieving a bottle of ointment and handing it to me.

In the column detailing its use: Improves blood circulation and reduces phlegm, lightens scars, treats external injuries.

So Gavin ended up seeing that small wound after all.

MC: Thank you, I’ll use it well.

I recollect the official business that I came here for, and set the helmet in my arms on the table. 

MC: I almost forgot to return this to you. I’ve already wiped and disinfected it all over.

Gavin: ...

MC: I heard that you’ll be executing a mission soon. You have to take note of your safety.

Gavin’s line of sight sweeps across the helmet on the table. His brows knit, and I have no idea what he’s thinking about.

Gavin: You don’t have to return the ointment to me.

MC: ...

Gavin: Keep your wound away from water, and don’t engage in any strenuous exercise over the next few days.

I was about to say that it was only a small injury. But I held back my tongue, and gave Gavin a sincere nod.

MC: I’ll definitely comply with Captain Gavin’s “medical advice”. If there are any cases worth noting next time, remember to contact me!

-

When I’m preparing to leave STF after checking through the documents in the meeting room, Xiao Zheng suddenly calls out to me. 

Xiao Zheng: Miss MC, I’ve been curious. Why do I always sense that Captain Gavin treats you especially differently? 

MC: He does?

Xiao Zheng: Mm. He always takes special interest in matters concerning you. Does he have a misunderstanding towards you?

MC: Mm... it is a misunderstanding which is very difficult to resolve. But that’s okay, I don’t take it to heart.

I laugh while trying to find an appropriate opportunity to change the topic.

MC: Since Captain Gavin has left, let’s continue talking about his gossip!

Xiao Zheng: There isn’t much gossip... but when Captain Gavin first came here, many people felt he wasn’t easy to get close to. Although Captain Gavin isn’t constrained by rules and regulations, he’s usually cold and cheerless... what does Miss MC think?

MC: I think it’s good enough for you guys to simply trust him.

The words leave my lips without me realising it, and several old memories flash across my mind.

The Gavin who always steps forward bravely in the face of danger. The Gavin who will never give up rescuing anyone. The Gavin who doesn’t make a sound even when he gets hurt...

And the Gavin who gave his back to me.

This time, we have to walk on different paths. But as always, we will be behind each other.

Perhaps the muzzle of his gun would take aim at me. But I know and firmly believe--

MC: In this entire world, he’s the person most worthy of trust and following. 

- End -

[Note] MC’s comment on his back is a reference to Ch 2 of the S2 main storyline T-T

After this program was aired, it received many positive comments from the audience. Problems related to the growing years of young people have garnered more attention from people. From this shoot, our company has received a certain optimisation in terms of strategy, and our impact on society has increased as well. In order to broaden the path to future developments of the company, we will work even harder to make even greater improvements  in various aspects.

[lblb-actuallywrites]

Over A Cherry Cosmos, Part 1

I wrote this as part of the Edens Zero Fic Exchange for @indraaas​. Hope you like it! (Part 1 of 3)

“Here,” the voice of Lieutenant Justice, Rebecca’s direct supervisor, spoke as a file smacked down on her desk.

“What’s this?” Rebecca asked, reaching for the file.

“Your next bounty. You said you wanted a challenge; Weisz Steiner, high-ranking member of Sibir’s gang, and a thief wanted across nearly half the country. Every bounty hunter that went looking for him couldn’t catch him.”

“Every bounty hunter so far,” she corrected. “I’m on it, sir.”

Lt. Justice only nodded and returned to his office.

Rebecca opened the file to see Weisz Steiner’s mugshot: blond hair coiffed to the side, a half-amused, half-annoyed smirk on his face, and a flirty glare thrown at the camera with steel gray eyes. From the angle of his head, she could just barely see enough to guess that he was leaning against the wall as if he were leaning against a tree in the park.

‘He’s pretty cute.’

Her eyes scrolled down to the section about his family background, muttering quietly to herself as she read.

“Mm.. Only child… Mom is.. Maria Steiner, deceased…”

When Rebecca first caught the father’s name out of the corner of her eye, she nearly gave herself whiplash with how fast she did a double take.

“Doctor… Weiss Steiner… No way...”

‘The old Doctor has a son?’ she thought.

Memories came flooding to the surface of her mind: running into the street after her little blue cat Happy, the swerving car with screeching tires that seemed to come out of nowhere just as she caught up to him. Then, she was weightless, flying through the air for what felt like forever.

She didn’t remember hitting the ground. Only waking up in the hospital the next day.

“Where’s Happy?” a seven-year-old Rebecca demanded of the old doctor in front of her.

“Happy?” Doctor Steiner asked.

“M-my kitty. We were playing and he ran away from me, so I chased him. And-” she paused, tearing up, though she pretended she wasn’t. “I-I don’t remember what happened after that.”

The look that came over Doctor Steiner’s face was one Rebecca had seen from a lot of adults: a tight smile, slight tilt to the head, squinted eyes. It usually meant something she couldn’t name, but definitely didn’t like. And it always left her feeling frustrated and small.

Except this time, Doctor Steiner looked sad, too.

But in a flash, that awful, hated, and now confusing look was gone, replaced with a wide smile.

“Well, I sure don’t know, little one, but I can ask the nice people that brought you in if you want?”

Rebecca blinked in shock as his offer sunk in. Then, grinning from ear to ear and practically vibrating in her hospital bed, she shouted, “Yes, please!”

She quickly covered her mouth when she realized how loud she’d been on accident. She looked at Doctor Steiner, eyes wide and half curled in a ball, waiting for him to scold her for yelling.

Instead, he gave her a kind smile, one she couldn’t remember ever seeing before, especially not from an adult.

“Sure thing, kiddo,” the Doctor said, patting her gently on the head.

Rebecca smiled at the memory.

‘How can I arrest the son of the man who saved my life?’ she thought, her smile faltering. ‘I know it’s my job, but…’

She took a deep breath and let it out slowly, stretching her neck in the process.

‘First thing’s first. I need more information.’

Rebecca stood up, grabbing her messenger bag from the back of her chair. She slung it over her shoulder and tossed Weisz Steiner’s file inside as she left the precinct.

~~~~~~~~~~

“What’cha got for me, Quinn?” Rebecca asked her friend and professional hacker.

“Well, he’s old fashioned,” Quinn said without looking up from her deep dive into Weisz Steiner.

Rebecca shook her head in confusion. “What?”

“No social media whatsoever. Even eighty-year-olds have Twitter these days.”

Quinn turned her chair around to face Rebecca, grabbing a coffee mug as she spun. Rebecca could tell that it was the hacker’s “Special Hot Chocolate” by the smell, the secrets of which she kept hidden behind a firewall the NSA itself couldn’t crack.

“Seriously, who doesn’t use social media these days? Even if it’s for no other reason than to keep up with the news?” Quinn shook her head in disbelief as she sipped on her drink.

“Not important. What did you find?”

Quinn raised her eyebrows. “Mm! Right.” She spun back around to face her main monitor. “So, I think I found a place where he likes to hang out. Edens Bar. Only two of the multiple credit cards he’s stolen in the last six months have turned up charges there, as opposed to him crawling over half of the bars in Norma.”

“So what makes you think he’s there? Maybe he just got kicked out or something.”

Quinn shook her head. “Nah. I hacked into their security cameras and found footage of him at the bar.”

“Of course,” Rebecca sighed. “Look, I know it’s not a big deal to you, but can you at least not openly mention the illegal hacking you’re doing for me directly to me? I need plausible deniability!”

Quinn waved off her concerns. “Don’t worry. Even if they could catch me, I wouldn’t let anything happen to you from my new seat at the NSA. Anyway, he seems on good terms with the staff, so he wasn’t banned.”

Rebecca groaned, but let it slide. Even if she gave Quinn trouble for it, she knew that she’d never be caught.

“Plus, I found footage of him there that doesn’t line up with any cards he’s been linked to, so it’s more likely that he’s just trying to keep people from tracking him there. Which is backed up by the fact that I tracked him with traffic cams before he showed up to Edens Bar and he’s checking for tails two miles out. And he takes the scenic route there.”

“Pretty solid plan,” Rebecca admitted.

“Yeah, until someone smarter came along,” Quinn said smugly.

Rebecca laughed. “Thanks, Quinn. Can you keep an eye on the bar and let me know when Weisz shows up again?”

“Of course.”

“Awesome,” she said. “Oh, and can you do one more thing for me?”

~~~~~~~~~~

Rebecca flexed her fingers in an attempt to shake away the anxiety. ‘This is research,’ she told herself. ‘In order to find a wanted criminal… Who is the son of the doctor who saved my life..’

“Damn it,” she muttered to herself, dropping her head on her steering wheel. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out of her car.

‘It’s not too late to turn around and drive away,’ her thoughts taunted her.

Chants of ‘it would be easy,’ ‘no one would ever know,’ and ‘Quinn can probably find out all you need’ stayed glued in Rebecca’s mind as she stalked forward. Instead, she tried to focus on anything else, her eyes fixating on the row of expensive houses in front of her.

They were all wide two-stories, mostly white or off-beige, occasionally lined with light hints of pastels for what Rebecca assumed these rich idiots called “flavor.” It was simultaneously extravagant and so boringly tasteless that she wondered how anyone could think it was nice to look at.

‘Exactly like the rich owners. All style, no substance. It feels like I’m looking at the wall of a padded cell.’

She finally reached the end of Doctor Steiner’s walkway and stopped, looking again at the house in front of her.

Compared to the rest of the nearly-identical houses on the street, his was easily the nicest to look at. The house itself was a very subtle off-yellow color, almost impossible to tell from a distance, accented with a light pastel baby blue color that outlined the windows and covered the pillars in the front. As she got closer, she noticed the front door was also the same shade of blue.

Rebecca tapped her leg as she stood in front of Doctor-turned-Professor Steiner’s door, working up the courage to knock. After nearly a minute of frantic leg-tapping, she finally forced herself to.

‘No backing out now,’ she thought. Her fingers were starting to get tired from tapping so much.

A few seconds later, the lock turned and the door opened.

“Can I help you, Miss?”

“Um, yeah,” she took a slow breath. “Are you Doctor Weiss Steiner?”

“Yes.” His eyes narrowed slightly, but didn’t say anything else.

“I’m Rebecca Blue-Garden. I’m a Bail Enforcer and I’m tracking your son, Weisz.” She had to fight to keep her voice even as she spoke. “I was hoping there might be something you could tell me about him.”

He blinked. “Such as?”

“Anything you think might be useful in bringing him in safely would be a good start.” Rebecca realized she’d been twisting her fingers together and forced herself to stop.

Doctor Steiner smiled kindly, and it matched up almost perfectly with the smile in her memory. “I don’t think I know anything that could help you.”

“A-are you sure? Nothing at all comes to mind?”

‘I read that Weisz ran away when he was fifteen in his file, but I thought that I’d at least get something useful from his dad.’

“I wish I could help you, Miss Blue-Garden, but I’m afraid not. I’m sorry I couldn’t be of more use.”

He started to close the door. “G-”

“Wait!”

Doctor Steiner raised an eyebrow.

Rebecca sighed. “Y-you saved my life when I was a kid. And I’ve always wanted to thank you in some way, but I didn’t know how I could. I didn’t want or expect this..” She waved her hand around. “.. situation.”

“I.. operated on you?” he asked after a moment of silence.

“Yeah. I was playing with my little blue cat Happy when a drunk driver hit me. You even offered to ask the paramedics that brought me in if they saw him. Looking back now, it’s obvious that he… but it meant a lot to me back then.”

“You were the little girl with the blue cat? … Now that I think about it, your name does sound familiar..”

She tried to contain her rush of excitement.

“Come in,” he said, smiling with warmth and opening the door wider.

Rebecca blinked as she processed the offer. It’d been more or less what she wanted, but it surprised her that she actually got it. Then, she returned his smile and stepped through the door.

“So, you’re a Bail Enforcer?”

“Yep.”

Rebecca tried to calm her nerves. ‘What was my plan again?’ she thought, flexing her fingers at her sides. ‘Did I even have a plan?’

“And you’re looking for my son?”

“... Yep.”

‘This was a bad idea.’

Doctor Steiner chuckled sadly before speaking again. “Well, I wish I could help you, but I haven’t seen, much less spoken to my son in… almost ten years.”

“I see..”

‘He never once tried to contact his dad? I mean, I know I kinda assumed that was the case, but… hearing it confirmed makes me a little sad for the Doctor.’

“Weisz left when he was still a teenager, but even before then he wasn’t very talkative.”

Rebecca nodded slowly, following silently as he led the way to the living room. Doctor Steiner gestured to the couch as he sat down in a recliner chair a few feet away.

“So, how long have you been a Bail Enforcer?”

“Huh? Oh, about three years, now. Why do you ask?”

Doctor Steiner hesitated. “About how many of the people you’ve arrested ran away from home when they were younger?”

Rebecca paused. Broken homes weren’t exactly an uncommon denominator across all of the bounties she’s hunted down, but she didn’t want to sound like she was accusing the Doctor of being the reason his son ran away.

‘Maybe their relationship sucks and he doesn’t care about his son getting arrested.. That would make me feel less like a complete ass about doing my job…’

“Um.. Well, I don’t know numbers, but there’s been a few. It’s not rare.”

Doctor Steiner only hummed in response, eyes narrowed and slightly hunched over. Looking at him now, Rebecca could barely see the jovial doctor that saved her life; instead, all she saw was a worn down and sad old man.

‘Ugh, crap! I can’t do anything right today, can I?’

“Hm. I wonder why they felt the need to leave.”

The quiet, contemplative look on his face pulled at Rebecca’s heartstrings.

“Weisz was headstrong, stubborn… and full of hot air.”

She chuckled. “Aren’t all teenagers full of hot air?”

“Usually. But… I just wonder what was going through his head. I’ve always wondered why he left in the first place.” Doctor Steiner’s hard gaze at the floor became unfocused, distracted by his thoughts. “Or maybe I kind of already know. We couldn’t seem to see eye-to-eye. And I know that Maria’s family didn’t make it any easier. Maria was my wife, and Weisz’s mother,” he added.

Rebecca swallowed hard, nodding slowly. She didn’t know what she could say in response. Doctor Steiner’s entire being seemed steeped in sadness; the kind of bone-deep sadness that never truly goes away.

“Sorry, I’m not sure why I’m telling you this.”

She shook her head. “It’s okay.”

“You’re wondering what happened.”

It wasn’t a question.

“Well…” she trailed off. ‘Yeah, sort of.’

Doctor Steiner hummed. “Well, Weisz was always a troublemaker. He got into it a lot as a kid, and evidently, that’s never changed.. But Maria was always patient with him. Much more so than the rest of her family.”

Rebecca tried to hide her grimace, but the corner of her mouth still twitched.

“I don’t mean to sound like I’m judging. But they were… notoriously difficult to deal with. Any time Weisz got in a fight or let his grades slip, someone had something to say about it. Of course, never to us. But Weisz took notice.”

Doctor Steiner heaved a tired sigh.

“One day, he overheard a… particularly nasty comment from Maria’s sister. But before anyone could say anything else, he decided he’d finally had enough, I suppose, and he started yelling at them. When he finished, he said that… everyone would be happier if he left. And then he did.”

Rebecca bit the inside of her lip. She could practically hear him blaming himself.

‘People like that are impossible to please. They didn’t want Weisz to be a person, they wanted him to be a puppet.’

“I hoped he was just blowing off steam. He left before anyone could say anything to him. So I waited for him to come back, but… he didn’t,” Doctor Steiner sighed again. “And then, about eight months later… Maria died. I had hoped he’d go to the funeral, although it was probably for the best that he didn’t, in the end.”

She nodded. ‘His mom’s family are a bunch of judgmental dicks. I feel for him on that.’

A vibrating in her back pocket brought Rebecca to reality. Pulling out her phone, she saw Quinn’s name flash on the screen.

“My friend’s calling, I should take this,” she said, smiling politely as she stepped away. “Hello?”

“Hey, your criminal’s on his way to Edens.”

“Okay, thanks. Keep an eye on it.”

“I will. Want me to call Shiki and Homura?” Quinn offered, followed by the distant sound of her sipping on a drink.

“No, it’s fine,” Rebecca said, uttering a quick goodbye before hanging up. She walked back to the couch. “Okay,” she muttered. “Well, I should get going. It was nice talking to you.”

“Wait. Before you go,” Doctor Steiner said, standing quickly. “I was hoping you might be able to do me a small favor.” He walked to a nearby desk and pulled a pen and a pad of sticky notes from it, scribbling something.

“What is it?” she asked.

“If it’s at all possible, I was hoping…” he pulled the top sticky note off. “I might be able to see my son. I don’t know if you can do that, but I just want to talk to him again, and tell him something.”

Rebecca took the sticky note from him to see a phone number on it. She folded it carefully and stuck it in her phone case.

“I’ll do my best,” she said with a smile.

“Thank you, Miss Blue-Garden.” He walked with her back to the front door.

She nodded at him as she stepped outside.

‘Okay, Weisz Steiner. I am gonna get you into a conversation with your dad, even if I have to drag you by your pompous hair to do it.’

~~~~~~~~~~

Rebecca adjusted the rose barrette in her hair and brushed her bangs out of her eyes. Before going to Edens Bar, she changed into a black mini skirt, over the knee boots, and a blue halter top. Now, she made her final subtle adjustments before walking up to the empty seat next to her bounty.

“This seat taken?” she asked, with a sweet smile on her face. Rebecca made sure to throw a subtle, yet impossible-to-miss flirty glance his way.

“No. Go ahead.”

“Thanks,” she said as she slid into the bar chair. “What’s your name?”

“Weisz.”

“I’m Rebecca.”

Weisz flashed her a flirty smirk reminiscent of the one in his mugshot, and she had to correct an earlier thought.

‘Shit. He’s not cute, he’s hot.’

“Just a Cherry Cosmos, please.”

“So, what are you doing in this little bar?” Weisz asked, taking a sip of beer.

“I’m.. expanding my horizons. I’ve been in Norma for a while, but I haven’t really been a whole lot of places.”

Weisz leaned in. “If you want, I can give you a few places to check out.”

Rebecca mimicked him, leaning forward and slowly pulling her handcuffs out of her bag and under the bar. “Are you offering to show me these places yourself?” she flirted as she slid her hand closer to his.

“Well, if you want-”

The click of the cuffs closing around his wrist cut him off. Rebecca closed the other cuff around part of the underside of the bar.

“Well that’s not exactly how I prefer to be asked out on a date, but…”

Rebecca chuckled. “Funny.”

“I assume these aren’t for fun?” Weisz asked.

“Nope.”

“Too bad,” he sighed. “Will you at least let me finish my drink?”

Rebecca eyed the beer bottle in front of him. ‘Less than half full,’ she thought.

She sighed. “I guess.”

He sipped his beer calmly.

“Y’know, for someone who’s as high up in Sibir’s gang as you, I gotta say, you’re taking this whole ‘getting arrested’ thing pretty well.”

Weisz’s easy going smile faltered, fixing Rebecca with a cold stare. “I’m not with Sibir anymore.”

“Fine. You’re still under arrest,” she said flippantly. “I don’t know why so many other bounty hunters couldn’t catch you before, this was pretty easy.”

Weisz finished his beer, setting the empty bottle on the bar as he leaned towards her again. “If I may, Rebecca, I just have one question for you: how are you going to arrest me when you’re the one in handcuffs?”

Rebecca looked down at the space between them just in time to watch Weisz clasp the handcuff, previously on him, around her wrist.

“What-?”

She looked up at him, stunned. He winked at her, then leaned in.

“Drive safe, Rebecca.”

And then he was slipping out the door.

Rebecca sighed, turning back towards the bar to unlock herself when she noticed that Weisz had left enough money for both of their drinks.

‘He’s a thief, but he left money for the tab? A little “Robin Hood,” if you ask me.’

Her phone vibrated in her bag as she finished unlocking the handcuffs. Rebecca had barely put the phone up to her ear when Quinn started talking.

“Y’know, you never realize how much easier social media makes my job until you find that rare specimen without it and I have to actually try a little.”

“Meaning?” Rebecca asked, too annoyed for pleasantries as she stood and walked out of the bar.

“I was looking into Sibir’s gang, trying to see if there was something you might be able to use, and I just found out that-”

“That Weisz and Sibir aren’t ‘buddy-buddy’ anymore? Yeah, he just told me.”

“Okay, but did he say why?” Quinn asked.

Rebecca paused just outside the door. “No. Do you know?”

“Yeah. It’s messed up stuff, Becca. You know his mom died, right?”

“Yeah, but that’s all his file said about her.” She set out towards the small parking lot next to the bar.

“Well, I hacked the text messages of a few of Sibir’s guys and found out that, apparently, after Doc Junior joined up with Sibir, it was Sibir who did the hit and run that killed his mom, but he tagged the place with Rogue Out’s logo. Guess he wanted to cut off Weisz’s escape route. But when Weisz found out...”

“That’s… awful.” Rebecca’s hand hovered over her heart.

“Anyway, what’s happening at Edens?”

The hand over her heart tightened into a fist. “He got away,” Rebecca grumbled as she unlocked her car. “We’re gonna need to come up with a new plan.”

[felipeandletizia]

May 5, 2020: King Felipe and Queen Letizia held a videoconference with the Municipal Transport Company of Madrid during the pandemic. They conveyed their affection and support to the entire EMT staff, and recognize the fundamental work that is being carried out during these weeks and were informed of how they are facing the pandemic and its consequences.

On behalf of the Municipal Transport Company, the managing director, Alfonso Sánchez; the director of Transportation Services, Luis Mª Álvarez; the deputy director of Operations Centers, Carlos Sierra and the station manager, Carabanchel Operations Center, Jesús Cantolla, who have transferred to SS. MM. The Kings that during the state of alarm, the EMT has continued to provide service to maintain connectivity within the city, with special attention to the lines that serve health centers.

This service has been maintained during the most acute phase of the spread of the disease in practically the usual levels of a normal day, despite the drop in demand of around 90%, and this due to the fact that they have been imposed Very strong restrictions on maximum seating capacity on buses to ensure interpersonal safety distance between passengers. Only from March 23, when the non-essential activities ceased, the offer was reduced slightly, leaving it at 60% of the usual schedule, with the service expected to increase in the coming weeks until reaching probably in late May the full envelope.

Those responsible have stressed that cleaning and disinfection are being the essential aspects to guarantee the safety of employees and travelers, from the outset the strictest protocol and cleaning by spraying.

During the videoconference from the EMT they have transferred to Don Felipe and Doña Letizia the activation, since the end of March, of special lines, EMT SOLIDARIA, in collaboration with different entities such as the Military Emergency Unit and the Regional Consortium of Transportes de Madrid for the transfer of patients to hospitals and medical centers; or the free transfer to the IFEMA hospital, or the 5 lines, with the participation of more than 120 volunteer drivers who, in their spare time, are freely transferring toilets from the hotels where they are staying to the hospitals and medical centers.

They also commented that in the framework of the fight against the expansion of the coronavirus, the information considered of interest about the actions carried out by EMT is provided to the communication managers of the networks in which EMT participates, as a benchmark of good practices sharing the International knowledge with organizations such as the UITP, Cities for Global Challenge, POLIS, or the Latin American network for sustainable mobility.

Their Majesties the Kings knew from those responsible for EMT that from the moment the de-escalation begins and with a view to protecting EMT personnel, in their jobs, the following actions will be taken:

   Feasibility study of the face-to-face work of 50% of the workforce for alternate weeks, to achieve social distancing.    Installation of thermal imaging cameras at the entrances to the headquarters and the different work centers to detect workers whose body temperature exceeds the permitted limits.    Provision of masks for all workers and testing of all EMT employees. The highest-risk employees are already being made.

About EMT

The Municipal Transport Company of Madrid (EMT) is a Public Limited Company, owned by the Madrid City Council, integrated into the Regional Transport Consortium of Capita EMT, it is the global operator of surface public mobility in Madrid and one of the largest companies in mobility of Europe by volume of business, fleet and users.

EMT currently manages five lines of activity in the city of Madrid: the Urban Public Transportation Service by bus with a fleet of 2,050 buses (all of them accessible) and 213 bus lines. The Public Bicycle Service (BiciMAD), whose network has 208 stations and 2,500 electric bicycles. The Mobility Aid Service with a fleet of 80 cranes that performs more than 90,000 interventions a year. In addition, EMT manages more than 10,000 parking spaces in 23 municipal public car parks and the Madrid cable car.

EMT covers a territorial area of 605 square kilometers and a population of 3.15 million inhabitants. The EMT network of lines has a length of 3,819 kilometers and 10,572 stops.

[teamhook]

Just another CS MOVIE AU... Happy Valentine’s Day.

Hello! Okay, so I bring you, musician!Killian AU inspired by Forever My Girl cause I see CS everywhere! Sorry, I’m stubborn and although I was told this should be a SF fic. Maybe I’m wrong but I couldn’t stop myself.

I wanna thank @searchingwardrobes and @ilovemesomekillianjones for their Beta services. They each helped me so much.

So the story is gonna be tagged a csromcom19. I hope that’s okay with @searchingwardrobes .

This is my Valentine’s Day gift to all of you, my lovely shipmates.

|AO3|  OR  |FFN|

A/N: A tragedy brings home a small town’s wayward son and he finds an unlikely surprise.

Present

Darling's Waterfront Pavilion, Bangor, ME.

On the dimly lit stage sat a handsome dark-haired man playing the guitar. His melodic voice filled the amphitheater with a heartbreaking, Grammy Award-winning love song. The performance ended and with it, he thanked the crowd. He spotted a blonde in the front row. He knew it wasn’t the one that plagued his dreams, but for tonight she would ward them off.

Killian walked off the stage and leaned towards his manager to issue his request.

“Scarlet, there was a blonde in the front row.”

“Sir, I’m already on it. She is waiting for you in the car headed to the after party.”

“I’m not going to the party, please, have a nice steak sent to my room along with a bottle of rum.”

“Sir, you are expected at the after party. What should I tell them? Everyone is antsy about details of the new songs.” The manager sighed in frustration at the lack of enthusiasm from his artist.

“Just tell them I’m not feeling well.”

“And the girl, sir?”

Killian smiled and nodded. “I think you know what ‘nightcap’ means, Mr. Scarlet.”

“Of course.”

Scarlet got on his phone as Killian walked away. “He is not going to the after party, Tiny. Get the girl in Mr. Jones’ car.”

“Okay, but some people are going to be angry,” the big bodyguard countered.

“I know, but he is the boss,” he shrugged helplessly.

Scarlet and Killian walked together out of the venue. After escorting the girl to the car, managed crowd control a few steps in front of them.

“Sir, nothing beats a hometown crowd, right?” Scarlet smiled at Killian.

“Mr. Scarlet I’m not from here. I’m from a few towns over.”

“Oh, have a good night sir.” They go in different directions, though Will lingered for a second. It was his job to make Killian happy, but he didn’t truly know him.

Killian woke up disoriented and with a booming headache as he looked around the room. Ah yes, the hotel, he is on tour.

The blonde excitedly jumped up and down. “You are finally up! I’ve been trying to wake you up for a while.”

Killian squinted trying to get a better look at her. The hair color was obviously from a bottle. The eyes brown instead of green. She was a poor substitute for her.

“Lass there is no need to scream,” he looked at the nightstand and got up from the bed. “Where is my phone?!”

“Your phone? I don’t know, I haven’t seen it.” She backed up and then a crunching sound was heard.

Killian rushed to the sound as fast as possible in his current state, dropping to his knees. “Please, no, no- it can’t be broken.” He glared at the girl in the room with him.

“That is your phone?” She pointed at the taped up flip phone in his hand.

“Bloody hell! You broke it!” He looked around the room and darted out, clad in only his white boxers, throwing on some worn jeans and a white t-shirt that he found on the sofa shoulder as he went. He ran to the front desk, ignoring the fans around him pointing at him and calling out his name.

“Excuse me, lass?” he gained the clerk’s attention.

“Mr. Jones, how can I help?”

The clerk was still typing away on her computer not looking up at him right away, she finished her notes, and finally turned to him smiling broadly.

“Lass the closest cell phone store. Please,” he desperately asked.

“There is one on Main Street, two blocks down. Would you like me to call you a car, sir?”

“Thank you.” He ran out in the direction the clerk told him to go.

He found the store quickly, but not without going unnoticed as he ran down the street.

The doors flew open. “To anyone that can fix this phone, I will give you $10,000.00.”

The clerks staggered toward him and one of the eager fans was going to reach for the phone until the manager appeared from the back room.

“Excuse me, Mr. Jones, may I take a look at the phone.”

Killian nodded and handed the phone to him. “Can you fix it?” he asked hopefully.

The kind man looked over the phone and smiled. “This phone has had better days. Are you sure you don’t want to simply replace it?”

“On this phone, there is a very important message, one that can never be replaced, therefore neither can the phone.”

“Alright then, follow me to my office and we will see what we can do.” Killian followed the man to the back room.

“Please take a seat, Mr. Jones,” the manager offered as he found his own seat across from the singer. He took out his toolbox and inspected the device with care.

“These older boards are a bit tricky.” He removed the back door, then the battery and then a small board. He put a new one in its place. “Just give me one second here. Almost done.” A few clicks were heard and everything was back in its place. “Well, it's not much to look at it, but it should work just fine now.”

“So it's fixed?”

The man nodded, “I’ll give you a moment to check for yourself.”

“Thank you,” he let go of a breath he had no idea he was holding.

“March 5th, one saved message.

Hi, Killian... it's me, Emma…”

Grammy Award Winner Killian Jones was spotted earlier running around barefoot according to witnesses.

“Are you kidding me, Scarlet? You were supposed to keep an eye on him!”

“I know, and I was ma’am, but there are moments he needs privacy,” the man responded, “Miss Blanchard, my other line is ringing, it might be him.” He clicked over, ending the call with the petite publicist, to hear his confirmation.

“Scarlet, I need an espresso,” Killian’s booming voice echoed through the device.  

“Sir? How about some basic outerwear, like shoes?”

“Come again?”

“That jog of yours in your skivvies has been all over TV.”

“Miss Blanchard called several times, and she is not happy.”

“Scarlet how many times has she told you to call her MM? Besides, publicists love this stuff.”

“Sir, record labels do not, and they are not happy with you right now. Everyone is waiting for you to deliver these new songs.”

“I’m just dealing with some writer's block right now.” Killian’s voice lowered a little in disappointment as he fiddled with his recently repaired phone.

“I don’t know how long I can put them off. We have a meeting set with the label for next week.”

Killian lost focus on the conversation at hand as the reporter on his  TV began talking about an accident that had taken place on the I-95 that morning. "Thirty year old Robin Locksley, councilman of Storybrooke, Maine, was in critical but stable condition after a drunk driver hit his car. The drunk driver didn’t survive the impact. Mr. Locksley was swiftly transferred to Storybrooke Hospital.”

Killian stared at the TV; he felt a pull in his heart. He dashed out of the room and ended the call, leaving Mr. Scarlet talking to himself before he realized what had occurred. Sadly, he didn’t get very far.

Tiny was waiting for him outside his hotel room. “Sir, did you need anything?”

“Anton, I need an espresso. I was just going to go get one.”

“Try again,” he answered as he crossed his arms in disapproval.

“Tiny... Anton, I need to take care of something and it is best if I do it on my own. Please, get me a car and look the other way.” It was the imploring sound in his voice and desperate look in his eyes that did the big, bad, giant in.

“How about this Mr. Jones-”

“You can call me Killian, I don’t know why you and Scarlet insist on calling me, sir. You two have been with me long enough.”

“Okay, Killian, I will get a car ready for you, but you have to be back by the time the plane leaves for Colorado. That gives you roughly forty-eight hours.”

“I will be here. Thanks, mate,” he awkwardly hugged the man before he strode to the lobby of the hotel to find his car ready.

The drive to Storybrooke, Manie felt eternal as his driver tried to make small talk with him. They arrived outside Storybrooke Hospital.

“You can stop here and if you want to keep your job, I wouldn't tell anyone where I am.”

“Yes, sir.” The man quickly drove off.

Killian Jones was finally home.

Killian felt antsy as he entered the hospital, and immediately made a u-turn and exited. Outside the hospital, he contemplated going back inside to speak with one of the nurses, but he had stopped being family years ago.

Coming back was a mistake he realized too late. His driver was long gone, he was stranded in the small town.

He walked into the nearby church, deciding he might as well face his demons. The walk was short, and the small steps that led to the entrance of the Storybrooke Community Church mocked him. He took one step at a time. The door was wide open and once he was at the door he took a peek inside. The small white ligneous church contained what appeared to be the whole town. Some things never change. He shied away from the eyes of everyone but couldn’t stop himself from searching for blonde hair.

The deep familiar voice echoed from the altar centered in the middle of the small space. His brother was leading a prayer vigil for Robin.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Shocked emerald eyes met his and she turned away quickly. She leaned towards a man that was still paying close attention to the Pastor’s words. From the angle, Killian couldn’t recognize the man that sat so intimately close to his Emma. He was a bloody fool thinking she had never moved on.

He stood at the entrance listening to his brother’s words and turned to make an exit, but instead simply fell unceremoniously to the steps.

The blonde haired man leaned in, “Emma, are you okay?”

“David, shh.”

Emma played with soft brown curls as the small girl paid rapt attention to the sermon.

David lightly nudged his sister. “Emma?”

“Honestly, David, You need to follow in your niece’s example and be quiet. I’ll tell you later.” She tried to maintain a calmness that she didn’t feel.

*8 years ago: Storybrooke Community Church*

Liam Jones was about to perform a very special wedding. He smiled at all the happy faces that filled the compact church.

He stood proudly at the entrance greeting his parishioners with a gentle smile.

“Ms. Bluestar, good afternoon. The wedding is about to start."

"It is such a lovely day for a wedding. I heard Killian's song on the radio today. You must be so proud."

"I'm proud for my little brother for many reasons but mostly because he is marrying an amazing woman and he is following his dreams. Our mother would be very proud of him. Now if you would please excuse me."

“Of course.” She nodded as she entered the church to find a seat.

His attention diverted to the older woman that was fast approaching him, gently smiling at him as she held onto her son. He greeted her with an embrace and a firm handshake for his old friend.  

"Liam, after today we will be officially family."

"Mrs. Nolan, we are all family here. Now, let me help you inside and watch Killian marry your Emma."

"No need for that dear, David here will guide me and you should call me Ruth."

Liam blushed a little, he understood her reasoning. Both families had been close for a long time and with the union of the youngest of each family. His mother had taught him manners and he would gladly honor her teachings.

He followed the Nolan's to the front of the church to their front row seats. "I will be right back, I'm going to go check and make sure everything is on schedule."

He walked towards the church choir’s practice room, which had been dubbed the "getting ready room."  

He knocked on the door and announced, "Ladies, 12 minutes." He heard some murmurs in confirmation. He headed back to his position. His brother should be arriving any minute now.

"Elsa, your boyfriend sure runs a tight ship," Marian playfully teased her friend.

The platinum blonde rolled her eyes. "He is not my boyfriend, we are just friends."

"Sure," they all said in unison.

"Besides today is about Emma here."

Ruby was doing the finishing touches to the bride's makeup. "Emma Nolan, you are about to become Emma Jones in minus twelve minutes or are you gonna hyphenate the name?"

Emma looked at her reflection in the mirror. Her white dress was fit for a princess. This was the happiest day of her life. She looked at her closest friends. "No, it will be  Emma Jones."

Elsa approached Emma. "Okay, let's put the veil on."

Emma sighed, "Okay. Let's do it. I'm getting married."

Ruby, Marian, and Elsa looked fondly at their friend.

A soft knock disrupted their moment.

Ruby opened the door. "David, come in."

"Thanks, Rubes. Ah, there she is, my little sister. I had no idea you could clean up like that. You look beautiful."

Emma rolled her eyes, "Oh, David."

"So, are you ready to be walked down the aisle by your charming big brother?"

"Is it really time?" she asked nervously.

"Almost. Are you ready for this?"

She released a sigh, "I'm ready."

"Ladies, you all look ravishing today," David charmed.

They were interrupted by an urgent knock on the door.

"I'll get it." Marian walked to the door and opened it.

Robin walked in. "Ladies, you all look beautiful, but no one will be upstaging the bride today. Emma, you look

absolutely amazing."

"Aw, thank you, Robin. Marian, I see why you like having him around."

"Uh, Marian?" Robin attempted subtly to get his love’s attention.

"Robin, is it time already?"

"Can Graham and I have a quick word with you, outside for a minute, please?"

"Sure. Ems, I'll be right back."

"Ruby, can you touch up her lipstick? Just a little more color."

"Sure."

Marian followed a nervous looking Robin outside. Once they reached Graham and were within whisper range he announced the news. "He is not coming." Graham nodded in agreement with Robin.

Marian looked into Robin’s eyes, "Who is not coming?"

"Killian, he is not coming," Robin confirmed.

Marian stole a glance inside the room, wondering how she was going to tell her friend the news?

Emma looked at Elsa as Ruby grabbed the lipstick, "Do you think everything's okay?"

"I'm sure it is. This is your special day."

Marian came back inside followed by Emma and Killian’s closest friends.

"Marian, what is going on? Is Killian okay?" Concerned filled Emma’s voice.

"He is fine. He's just... He's not coming, sweetie. I'm so sorry, Emma."

"What do you mean he is not coming?" Emma asked as she looked at her friends. “Is this a joke, cause it’s not funny.”

David closed the distance to his sister and grabbed her hand softly to comfort her. "We're going to be here for you."

The rest of the room agreed. "Yes, we're here for you, we love you."

Emma's face fell once the reality of her situation sunk in. She stood in disbelief, he wasn’t coming, she wasn’t enough. She was unable to stop the tears from shedding and ruining her perfectly made up face.

*Storybrooke Community Church: Present*

The vigil was over and everyone was getting up to leave. Emma didn’t move. David held her hand and gently squeezed. “Hey, is everything okay?”

She sniffled as she looked at her little one patiently waiting for them to get up and leave.

“David, Killian’s here.”

“What?” He looked around for the man that broke his little sister’s heart.

“David, can you take Hope to the car, please?”

“Just leave him be, Emma. Don’t be stubborn. If anything I should be the one going to give him a firm talking to.”

“David you are my brother, not my father. I just need to say a few things to him.”

“Fine, but I don’t like it. Hopey, come here little one.”

Hope’s bright blue eyes met her uncle’s and she extended her hand to him. They exited the church via the back exit next to the office after their goodbyes to Uncle Liam.

Emma was the last to exit and she noticed Killian was nowhere in sight. Her stomach dropped for a moment as she continued to browse the area, then her attention landed on the man that was casually leaning on the trunk of the large oak tree across the street. She crossed the street quickly.

Killian straightened himself out when he realized she was coming his way. He was distracted by her neverending beauty. God, was she that breathtaking all those years ago? She finally reached him, and he was about to say something, anything… but he is cut off by her fist. The breath left his mouth forcefully as her fist connected with his stomach so hard he doubled over.

Writhing on the ground, Killian looked up searching for Emma, but only saw the pastor instead. “Hello brother,” he said.

"Hello, little brother."

"It's younger brother."

"She got you good and I can't say it is not well deserved. I knew there was a reason I always liked her."

Killian glared at him as he got on his feet.

"Killian, come on, let's go home."

The two brothers walked towards Liam's beat up, blue truck.

"So how long are you here for?" The elder Jones tried to make small talk as the youngest stared out the window. The quick drive to their childhood home reminded him how much things were the same.

"Your old room is still available."

"Thanks Liam, had a long day. Good night."

Liam stood as he watched his brother disappear to his childhood bedroom and close the bedroom door. Liam proceeded to have a light dinner as he thought of the day’s events. He was happy to have his brother back, and he hoped he was truly back, but at first glance it was obvious his brother had to be reminded of life in a small town. Here was just Killian, not a superstar.

Shamelessly tagging everyone I can think of:

@searchingwardrobes @hookedonapirate @ilovemesomekillianjones @profdanglaisstuff @revanmeetra87 @seriouslyhooked @mayquita @stophookingatmeswan @snowbellewells @kmomof4  @branlovestowrite @optomisticgirl @let-it-raines @lenfaz  @gingerchangeling @darkcolinodonorgasm @daxx04 @jennjenn615  @lizacstuff @lassluna @xemmaloveskillianx @xhookswenchx   @kymbersmith-90  @peglegsjones @shireness-says @courtorderedcake

[hymn2000]

Chiquitita - MCU AU fanfic - C15

Story summary: Something strange is happening. Someone from space has made their way to Earth, armed with a strange weapon. Targeting teenagers, their ray gun, when fired, turns the victim into a toddler. The Avengers set out to stop this, and find a way to reverse the effects. However, they don’t all come out of the battle unscathed.

Previous chapters: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Part of my Frostiron and Spiderson series.

Warnings/themes: de-aging, family stuff, corporal punishment (early chapters only), mental health stuff, hurt/comfort, hospital/medical stuff

Chapter 15 - How I Hate To See You Like This

-

Loki’s eyes opened. Everything looked and sounded blurry and fuzzy. He looked at the person above him.

“...Hi...”

“Hi. My name’s Darren; I’m a first aider. I’m just keeping your head still in case you’ve hurt your spine. The ambulance is on it’s way. Do you remember what happened?”

Loki blinked a bit, confused. He didn’t say anything.

“Have you got any pain anywhere?”

“...I’m not sure”

“Ok. Just try not to move”

“...How’s my helmet?”

“Well, it took most of the impact” Darren said, glancing at it where it lay, cast aside. “I think you’ll need a new one. But at least it wasn’t your head that cracked”

Loki laughed slightly. “Well, there is that...”

They were interrupted by sirens, and although he couldn’t see it, Loki heard one of the ambulances park close by. He heard the doors open and close, and he heard the voices.

“Paramedics! How are we doing over here?” one said.

“He’s woken up” Darren said. “I was a bit more concerned with holding c-spine to do a proper primary survey”

“Ok, don’t- Loki?!”

Loki looked up at the paramedics.

“It’s good to see you again, Simon”

“Not under these circumstances” Simon said, kneeling down beside him. “Are you gonna be a pain, or are you gonna let me and Liv take a look at you?”

“Oh please, feel free”

“You’re remarkably talkative for someone who’s just been in an RTC” Darren noted.

Loki looked at him for a moment. “The car...”

“We’ll riddle that bit out later” Liv said. “Si, do you want to sort a survey?”

“My bike...”

“Uhhh” Simon looked at the motorbike, wincing. “Maybe think about yourself for a bit, mate”

Loki went quiet for a little bit, thinking about his body, trying to work out where he was bleeding. He was definitely bleeding; there was no two ways about that. He just hadn’t worked out his injuries properly yet. Nothing felt real. He kept trying to focus on the road underneath him, but it still felt more like sand.

Darren was happy to continue with c-spine, so the paramedics were able to work on other aspects of the emergency.

“Alright mate, time for the horrible bit” Si said. “I’m gonna check you over, starting at your head. Make sure you tell me if anything hurts: don’t play martyr”

“Mm...”

“Have you got anything in your pockets?”

“Phone, wallet... keys are on the bike”

“We’ll grab them. Ok..”

As soon as Si put his hands on him, Loki realised this may be a lot more serious that he first thought. His head hurt. His forehead was definitely one source of bleeding; that was clear now. He saw his reflection in Si’s glasses.

“I don’t suppose you’ve got any slap in your bag, have you, Liv? Darren didn’t say how much of a mess they’d made of my face”

“Loki, shut up” Liv said, albeit gently. “Let Si check you over”

Si checked Loki’s neck, and as he reached the base of the back of it, Loki suddenly cried out and grabbed at his arm.

“Alright mate, alright” Si looked at Liv. “We’re definitely gonna need a collar”

“Noted”

Si touched Loki’s hand gently, subtly checking his fingers and wrist as he did so.

“You’re gonna tear my jacket right off my arm if you’re not careful” he said gently. “Let me check the rest of you”

Loki reluctantly let his arm fall back to his side. Everything seemed to get worse from there. It was as though everything hurt - but some places more than others. His chest was horribly painful. Broken ribs, he guessed. But that wasn’t the main worry: the pain in his back was. It was all he could do not to scream as Si prodded at him.

“Fuck! Oh bloody hell, that really hurts... Fuck. Good god..” he put his hand over Darren’s on the side of his head, sucking his breath and trying to breathe evenly. “I’m overreacting, aren’t I? You’re allowed to tell me if I am”

“We’re gonna stick you on a board” Liv said.

“We’re gonna have to cut your leathers off, you know that, right? Definitely the jacket” Si said.

“Don’t you bloody dare” Loki said, blinking hard in an attempt to stop the tears leaking from his eyes. “It’s vintage. Tony’ll go mad”

“I don’t think it’s the jacket he’s gonna be worried about” Si sighed. “Do you want us to call him?”

“No. I want to know what I’m dealing with before we get him involved”

Liv and Si exchanged a look.

“Well, if you’re sure. We won’t call him”

-

Collared and boarded and on the back of the ambulance, Liv asked again if he wanted them to call Tony. The answer was the same.

Darren had been excused so it was now down to three, and Loki was finding it increasingly difficult to keep his eyes open. His head hurt. His back and ribs really hurt. He was sick of the taste of blood in his mouth too.

“I’m just gonna stick a needle in your hand. Let’s get you some pain relief”

“No”

“Loki-”

“I said no”

Liv sighed silently. “Alright, but let me know if you change your mind. Si, are you driving?”

“Yep. I’ll ring ahead. Hit my window when you’re ready”

He closed up the back behind him and went round to the drivers side. Liv took Loki’s hand.

“How does it feel being on the other side of the table?”

Loki laughed slightly, but more tears welled in his eyes. He tried not to look at her.

“Are you tired? Or is it the light?”

Loki whined vaguely.

“Do you mind if I check your eyes again?”

Loki didn’t push her away when she did. He looked at her afterwards.

“How are they looking?”

“Pupils still equal and reactive, you’ll be glad to hear” she tapped him on the nose with the pen torch. “We’ll get you sorted. Obviously they don’t call you the god of mischief for nothing”

She stood up and banged Si’s window.

“Let’s get you in”

-

The pain of being in a moving vehicle was too much. Loki lasted about five minutes before he was forced to admit defeat.

“I’ve changed my mind” he gasped.

Liv signalled to Si, and he found a place to stop.

“You’re a stubborn git, and it’s not always a good thing” Liv said, readying the needle. “I know you hate this, but please don’t take it out on me”

Loki was in so much pain that he didn’t think a needle in the back of his hand was going to have much of an impact. He was wrong, and he swore a little bit, but he didn’t take it out on Liv.

“Are you ok?”

“Yes, I’m ok”

“Good. 10mg morphine, going in” she smiled at him. “That’s what the needle’s good for”

-

Loki did enough interdepartmental work to know a lot of the A&E and radiology staff, and the friendly faces helped. He could hardly speak. He felt so sick and dizzy and sore and strange. He did his best to let everyone do their jobs, but it wasn’t easy. He fought to stay awake. Just for a little bit. Just until the results were back.

It felt like hours, but he needed to know what was wrong with him. He needed to know the outcomes, the damage, the recovery period. He needed to know it all before he told Tony. He didn’t want Tony hunched up on a waiting room chair waiting for scraps of news. He needed the full facts as soon as he arrived at the hospital. So Loki waited.

“Hello again” Dr Bernie said, coming to Loki’s side. “Sorry for the wait, but with you being so adamant, we had to wait for all the results. So we’ve got your x-rays, and your CT scan-”

“Is my back broken?”

“I’ll tell you if you stop interrupting” Dr Bernie raised an eyebrow, smiling slightly. “No. Your back and neck aren’t broken. Your ribs are, though... We’re going to get you off the collar and board, and we’re going to move you to a side room. We need to go through all your results somewhere a bit more private”

-

Loki grabbed the sleeve of the person closest to the bed. It was a nurse, but not one he knew. She looked at him. He pulled his oxygen mask off.

“Call my husband”

-

Tony was knelt on the living room rug, holding little Peter’s hands captive above his head and tickling his tummy mercilessly. Little Peter was shrieking and laughing and kicking, enjoying the attention. Tony’s phone started ringing.

“Hold on a minute, kiddo” Tony let go of Peter and grabbed his phone. “Hello?”

“Hello, is that Mr Stark?”

“Speaking. Who is this?” Tony asked, standing up, leaving the toddler in a giggly heap on the floor.

“Hello Mr Stark. I’m ringing from A&E”

“Ah, is that where Loki got to, then? He didn’t say anything before he left the house”

“I’m afraid Loki’s been in a road traffic accident”

“Daddy?”

Tony put a hand up to stop Peter and walked out of the room, listening to the lady on the other end of the phone. An overwhelming feeling of nausea had welled in his throat. He could feel his pulse all over his body, so strong it felt like the whole room was pulsating. This couldn’t be happening. Not to Loki. Not now.

-

Tony put his phone back in his pocket and grabbed his keys, shoving his feet into the closest pair of shoes. He needed to get the the hospital as quickly as possible. It wasn’t until he was halfway down the steps to the garage that he remembered Peter. He couldn’t very well leave a toddler at home alone. He couldn’t delay going to the hospital either. He’d just have to come with him. Tony took a deep breath, trying to compose himself, and returned to the living room. Peter grinned up at him.

“Hi daddy!”

Tony knelt down in front of him, putting his hands on the little boys shoulders.

“Peter, darling, I need you to listen to me” Tony said, his voice shaking. “Daddy... Daddy’s had an accident. So we need to go down to the hospital and see him”

“Oh...”

“Now, Peter, sweetheart. Hospitals are... well, they’re where people go to get better. They can be quite scary, and it’s ok if you get scared. But they’re also places where you’ve gotta be really well behaved and quiet. I wouldn’t take you with me but we really need to get there fast, and I haven’t got time to get anyone to look after you. Do you understand?”

“I- um... Is daddy ok?”

“We’ll see. Sweetheart, go and get your shoes. Ok?”

Peter nodded, and ran off obediently when Tony let go of him. Tony looked down at his shaking hands. Part of him was saying he shouldn’t try to drive, not when he was feeling so mixed up and frightened. But he needed to be at Loki’s side as soon as possible. He had to get a move on.

-

Despite the fear hanging over his head, Tony still had a fleeting thought; grateful that toddler Peter didn’t remember all the times teenage Peter had spent in this department. He held the toddler tight, using him as a type of comfort blanket. Peter clung to him. He could sense the urgency of the situation, and he didn’t like the hospital: it was busy and loud, and he was scared.

“I wanna go home!” the toddler whimpered.

“I know, darling, I know” Tony said gently. “We need to find daddy first”

 He was quickly recognised by a member of staff.

“Mr Stark?”

Tony turned round. “Nurse Dunn...”

“We’ve got Loki in a side room. If you’d like to come with me”

Tony followed, but then stopped a few steps from the door. He felt so unbelievably sick. He swallowed hard, hoping he wouldn’t have to make a dash for the nearest men’s room.

“Mr Stark?”

Tony swallowed harder still, and looked at her. “Do you think... Could you take him? I don’t want him in there just yet”

“Yes, of course” Nurse Dunn said gently, taking Peter from him. “Hey little one. Shh, don’t cry. Let’s go and find you a biscuit or something, ok?”

Tony gave Peter a little kiss on the cheek. “Be good”

He took a deep breath, and pushed open the door to the side room.

-

Loki looked so pale. He was lying so still, oxygen mask over his face, hands folded over his stomach. Medical monitors always seems such angry things, but they were evidence that he was alive, at least. Tony glanced at the nurse, but then fixed his gaze on his husband. He approached the bed, and hesitantly rested a hand on Loki’s shoulder.

“Loki?”

Loki's eyes opened. He looked up at Tony, a slight smile tugging at his lips behind the mask.

“...Hello, my darling”

“You idiot... You idiot! I knew this would happen!” Tony burst out, stepping back from the bed, eyes brimming with tears. “You bloody idiot! I told you right at the start! That fucking bike! I told you how many people have accidents on those stupid things! I told you I wasn’t sure, but you insisted you knew best. I never wanted you to get the flippin’ thing in the first place!”

Loki stayed quiet. He let Tony shout, and once he’d paused for breath, reached out his hand. Tony looked at him, and promptly started sobbing. He stepped closer and took Loki’s hand in both of his, holding it to his mouth.

“I could’ve lost you” he cried, kissing his knuckles. “You could’ve been killed!”

Loki reached up and pulled his oxygen mask down. “I’m still here”

“You’re a stubborn idiot” Tony looked at him. “You’re such an idiot! How could you do this?!”

“It wasn’t my fault”

“You were on that bloody bike!” Tony snapped. “You were driving it; of course it was your fault! You and your bloody need for speed mentality have caught up to you, that’s what this is!”

He took a very deep breath, and hugged him, awkwardly as he didn’t want to move him off the bed. He kept one hand on his shoulder, slipping the other under the back of his head. He pressed his cheek against Loki’s, still feeling sick from emotion and fear, and hollow from crying so hard.

“I’m alive” Loki said. “Where’s Peter?”

Tony sat up, looking at him. “Where are you hurt? What’s wrong with you? I want to know everything. Every injury, every condition, every scratch. Tell me what’s wrong with you”

Loki looked up at him. “Ask someone else”

“Don’t you play with me!” Tony snapped. “Don’t you dare!”

“Mr Stark, this isn’t the time” A voice sounded as a doctor came into the room.

Tony stood up and spun round. “What’s wrong with him?”

“Can I convince you to step out for a minute?” Dr Bernie said. “Maybe we could talk about it somewhere else, once you’ve taken a breather”

“No” Tony said. “I’m not leaving him. Just tell me the damage. I need to know”

“All things considered, he’s been very lucky” Dr Bernie said. “But he’s still going to need some recovery time”

“Just tell me” Tony said, knuckling his eyes and trying in vain to stop crying. “Just tell me. List it all, I don’t care. You don’t need to sugar-coat it”

“Ok” Dr Bernie looked at Loki for permission, and then reeled off: “Three broken ribs. Left ankle’s sprained. Multiple abrasions. Severe bruising to the left hip and thigh. Lots of minor to moderate bruising elsewhere. Multiple cuts. Moderate laceration to the forehead. Moderate whiplash. Ring finger on the right hand is broken. As I said; he’s been very lucky”

Tony stared for a minute, and then looked at Loki.

“See? It could have been far worse” Loki said, trying to be reassuring. He tried to lighten the mood. “I’m afraid I’ll need some new leathers though. And a new helmet. Oh, and the bike is totalled”

“You’re such an idiot” Tony said, knuckling his eyes. “Why can’t you just take anything seriously?! You could have died! What if it had been worse?! What if you hadn’t been wearing your leathers?! You fucking idiot!”

“Mr Stark, please”

“I’ve always told him that bike was a death trap! He-”

“It wasn’t my fault” Loki tried again.

“Of course it was!”

“Mr Stark, I don’t know what they told you on the phone” Dr Bernie said. “But Loki was hit by a drunk driver who ran a red light”

Tony was shocked to silence for a moment. He looked at Loki, his eyes filling with tears once more. He wasn’t sure if that was worse or not.

“Tony” Loki reached out, taking Tony’s hand. “It could have been worse”

“That’s the scary bit! They hit you... Where are they? They need to pay for what they’ve done to you!”

“Mr Stark, please” Dr Bernie said. “You can look into pressing charges later. Focus on your husband for now”

Tony looked at him. He closed his eyes for a moment, counting to ten. He opened his eyes, nodded, and carefully climbed onto the bed, lying down beside Loki. He put an arm round his chest and rested his forehead against Loki’s temple. The doctor tactfully left the room. Loki found Tony’s hand and held it.

“I’m not human” he said. “I won’t be laid up for weeks: I’ll be back to my usual self in a few days. A week at the most”

“I was so scared” Tony said. “When I got that phone call, I just... I felt so sick. I still feel sick”

“I’m sorry. I never meant for you to worry. That’s why I waited and didn’t let them call you until I was sorted”

“You should’ve called me down straight away”

“I’m sorry... I love you. I love you so much. The car just came out of nowhere. I didn’t even really comprehend... I think it ran a red light. They were drunk, that’s what everyone’s saying”

“...I’m sorry. I shouldn’t’ve shouted at you, or called you an idiot. I was just so scared. I just reacted without thinking”

“I know” Loki squeezed Tony’s hand as best he could with a broken finger. “It’s ok; I forgive you... Where’s Peter?”

“I gave him to Nurse Dunn. I didn’t know what I was gonna see coming in here. I needed to see you alone for a bit”

“I want to see him”

"Not yet. Let’s wait a bit”

“I want to see him” Loki repeated.

“We need to talk first. We need to compose ourselves. Especially me”

Loki closed his eyes. “Stop crying”

“I can’t help it. I was so scared-!” He held Loki tighter, kissing him hard on the cheek. “Why did you go out? Why did you have to go out?!”

“I just needed to go out. You were being so ignorant and insensitive. I was angry with you. I just needed a breather”

“What? No I wasn’t!”

“Yes you were! I was trying to tell you how I was feeling, and you said I was overreacting, and you said I was an idiot. I was nothing but supportive of you throughout your post-adoption depression, not to mention all your other bouts of mental illness, so the least you could do is hear me out, if not repay the favour”

Tony went quiet for a minute. “Did I really say that?”

“Yes, you really did. You sent me away when we got back too”

“Well yeah, to cool off. I made you something to eat, too”

“I know that” Loki almost snapped. “That doesn’t take away the fact you were insensitive and didn’t want to hear what I had to say”

“Don’t you think you’re jumping to conclusions a little bit? It could just be normal depression”

“It’s been triggered by this whole situation with Kindsprengen. I drew a logical conclusion” 

Tony sighed, propping himself up on his elbow. “I love you, Loki. But maybe we should wait and talk about this once you’re better”

“Surely talking about it now is the perfect time? If I’m going to be out of action for a few days, that gives us a lot of time to talk”

“Not with a toddler to look after as well”

“He’s in bed early, and he has an afternoon nap. Besides, he’s so distracted with playing all the time. It’s not that much of an obstacle” Loki said. “Unless you want it to be”

“Why do you always have to change the subject and pretend other things aren’t happening? Can’t you let me worry about the fact that you got hit by a car for a little bit before we launch onto the next thing?”

“This isn’t the next thing. I brought it up before the accident”

“You know what I mean”

“So do you”

Tony sat up properly, and slowly slipped off the bed. “Do you wanna sit up?”

Loki looked away, and nodded slightly. Tony helped him sit up, and took his good hand.

“Are they keeping you in?”

“They didn’t say. I would doubt it”

“Good. I’ve gotta say, that’s a relief. I don’t know if I could deal with...”

“Painful memories?”

Tony nodded. “Painful memories... I’ll admit that the idea of having to get reacquainted with Nurse Tyler did just cross my mind”

Loki squeezed his hand. “I didn’t think... I know how hard that was for you”

“I don’t want to talk about it”

“I know... You never do. You’ve never talked about it, not since I was discharged”

Tony looked down at their hands. He looked at the rings on Loki’s ring finger, and stroked them gently with his thumb.

“...I spent so many hours sat by your side holding your hand like this. We were still basically considered newly-weds. They’d taken your rings off but I insisted you’d want to wear them. They said no at first, but once you were more stable... Poor little Peter spent so much of his free time there. It was the school holidays, wasn’t it? He was just here so constantly. Even that first night. Poor kid must’ve been terrified. He spent way too much time curled up asleep in a hospital chair”

Loki held his hand tight. Tony took a deep breath. He opened his mouth to continue, but was interrupted by a knock on the door. 

“Oh” Tony couldn’t help but smile slightly as the door opened. “I forgot how fast news travels round here”

-

Just as the group of Loki’s colleagues cleared out, another person appeared. 

“You’re straggling” Tony said.

“Haha, yeah. Sorry about that” Jo Jo smiled awkwardly, approaching the bed. “What are you like, eh?”

Loki couldn’t help smiling at his fellow nurse. “It’s good to see you”

“Mind if I give you a hug?” Jo Jo said, doing so anyway. “Bloody drunk drivers! What’s the damage?”

“I’ll be back to my usual self in no more than a week” Loki said. 

“Any update on the car?”

“Passenger died. Driver is critical” Loki said. 

Jo Jo sucked his breath.

“Idiots, that’s what they are” Tony said. “No other word for it”

“Well, I think it doesn’t bare thinking about” Jo Jo said awkwardly. “How are you feeling, Lokes?”

“I’ve been better, but not too bad, considering the circumstances”

“Good. I’m glad you’re ok. We were all pretty worried”

Tony excused himself from the room. He knew Loki and Jo Jo were fairly close, and he wanted to give them a little space. Besides, he had something he needed to get.

-

Loki lit up when Tony came back into the room with little Peter balanced on his hip, and Jo Jo gasped.

“Is this baby Peter?! Aww, look at him! Can I hold him?”

Tony laughed. “What do you think, bambino? You wanna go over to Jo Jo for a bit?”

Peter held tight to his rocket, and nodded slightly. Tony passed him over to Jo Jo, who seemed delighted.

“Hey, little sweetheart!” he smiled, stroking the toddlers curls gently and tickling him under the chin. “Aren’t you a cutie?” he looked at Loki. “He’s lovely”

Loki smiled. “I know... Can I have him? I’ve been waiting rather a long time”

“Yeah yeah, of course” Jo Jo nodded. “Over to daddy now, ok?”

Peter was all too happy to be passed over. Loki held him close, almost desperately, kissing his cheek and stroking his hair firmly. 

“Hello, my darling” he said. “How are you doing?”

“Daddy said you had an accident”

Loki loosened his grip so Peter could sit back on his heels and look at him. 

“Yes, but I’m ok” 

“You’re hurt” Peter said, noting his dressings and the obvious cuts and bruises on show.

“Only a little bit. Have you been a good boy while you’ve been here?”

“That nurse gave me a biscuit and we played snap” Peter yawned.

“Lovely...” he looked at Tony. “He’s tired. You need to take him home”

“I’m not leaving you” Tony said firmly. 

“Well then you need someone to do it for you. It’s not fair to keep him here”

“Uhhh...” Tony looked at Jo Jo. “I don’t suppose you could..?”

Jo Jo put his hands up. “Sorry, I’m on shift”

“But you’re down here”

“I’m on my break” Jo Jo said. 

“Then why are you here instead of in the staff room downing an instant pasta pot?” Loki teased, knowing the nurses bad habit.

“I’ve been itching to get away for hours, ever since I heard that they’d brought you in. It’s just been really busy tonight” he looked back at Tony. “I’m sorry; I can’t”

“Take him home, Tony” Loki said.

“I’m not leaving you. I’ll have to ring round, see if anyone can take him”

Loki looked at Peter, stroking his hair gently. “Is Barton still in town?”

“I think so?” Tony said. “You want me to call him?”

Loki nodded. “Peter needs looking after”

Jo Jo’s pager beeped. He checked it, sighed, and silenced it. He gave Loki a quick hug and a kiss on his bruised cheek.

“I’ve gotta go.  You look after yourself” he straightened up, clearing his throat. “See you on the ward some time?”

“Definitely”

-

Clint shook his head at Tony in the hospital car park.

“Why is that whenever there’s a crisis, it’s always you three?”

“You’re not funny” Tony said. “Thanks for coming down”

“Hey, it’s no problem. I said I’d help out if you ever needed me” Clint said. 

“Yeah... We’ll put the car seat in your car. Might be easier that way..”

They sorted the car seat, and Clint leant against his car.

“Are you ok?”

Tony nodded. He shook his head, and shrugged. “I think I’m still in a bit of shock”

“How’s Loki?”

“...It could have been worse. I don’t think they’re gonna keep him in, but... I don’t know” he looked at Peter, and kissed him on the cheek. “Uncle Clint’s gonna take you home now”

Peter nodded slightly. Clint carefully took him from Tony.

“Hey, little guy”

“He needs a bath tonight” Tony said. “There’s plenty of stuff in the kitchen, so... If he gets difficult, like if he won’t do something, you can sometimes kid him into doing it by pretending it’s a superhero mission, and-”

“Tony, it’s fine. I’ve got this” Clint said. “He’ll be fine with me. Just keep me updated on Loki, and we’ll talk later”

“Ok... Ok. Oh god, it’s gotten late so quickly”

“Go back in” Clint said, strapping Peter into his car seat and closing the door. “He needs you the most right now. Don’t worry about the kid”

Tony looked at Clint. If it had been anyone else, he probably would have hugged them. Instead he nodded, thanked him, and turned on his heel. Clint was right: Loki needed him the most right now.

*

[rojgar-result]

Chandigarh Postal Circle Recruitment 2021 » Big Varios Post

Chandigarh Postal Circle Recruitment 2021 » Big Varios Post

Chandigarh Postal Circle Recruitment 2021-2022 Punjab Post Office Recruitment 2021 Chandigarh Post Office Driver Recruitment 2021 Chandigarh Postal Circle Jobs 2021 Punjab Postal Circle Recruitment 2021 India Post Office Recruitment 2021 » Staff Car Driver (MMS Chandigarh) 11 Posts Application Form are invited for the recruitment of 11 positions of Staff Car Driver (MMS Chandigarh) in Mail Motor…

[freegovtjobalertdaily]

MMS Coimbatore Recruitment 2022 For Staff Car Driver Jobs in TN

MMS Coimbatore Recruitment 2022 For Staff Car Driver Jobs in TN

MMS Coimbatore Recruitment 2022: The government of India, the Ministry of Communication Department of Posts has Published a Notification For MMS Coimbatore Recruitment 2022 For Staff Car Driver Jobs in TN. Filling up 4 (Four) vacancies in the Grade of Staff Car Driver in the pay matrix Level-02 as per 7 CPC in the office of Manager, Mail Motor Service, Good shed Road, Coimbatore…

[newstfionline]

Sunday, July 25, 2021

Canada to relocate Afghans who assisted in war amid ‘rapidly deteriorating’ security situation (Washington Post) Canada announced plans Friday to resettle Afghans who aided the Canadian military and the country’s embassy and could face danger because of their work, as the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan nears completion and the Taliban mounts offensives to regain territory. Canada’s “path to protection” will be open to Afghans with a “significant and enduring relationship” with the Canadian government, although officials did not elaborate on how that would be defined. Those eligible, they said, could include interpreters, locally engaged embassy staff members, as well as a host of other locals who assisted the war effort such as cooks, drivers, cleaners, security guards and their families. The announcement followed weeks of pressure on Ottawa from lawmakers and advocates to resettle Afghan interpreters and other locals. Some veterans said they were so frustrated by the lack of a government plan that they were using their own money to relocate former Afghan colleagues to safer parts of Afghanistan. The governments of other NATO allies who fought alongside U.S. forces have also faced calls to do more to aid Afghan interpreters or to expedite their resettlement. In Australia, a retired army general burned his service medals in protest of what he said was a lack of government action.

The days of vaccine lotteries are waning. Here come the mandates. (USA Today) Getting a COVID-19 vaccine in summer 2021 could have given you a shot at a million dollars. Soon, not getting one could cost you your job. Health officials and politicians have tried to stay positive in recent months as vaccination rates plummet, turning to ad campaigns touting giveaways and lottery drawings. And then the ultra-contagious delta variant arrived. Now health officials say the nation’s lagging vaccine rates are creating a spiraling public health crisis as the unvaccinated rapidly get sick and the protective power of vaccines is given a “stress test.” A growing chorus of voices say people who resist vaccinations should face pressure—and consequences. Some hospital administrators agree, and healthcare workers who refused to get vaccinated have been fired or quit in New Jersey and Texas. In New York City, public health workers who refuse to get vaccinated will face weekly COVID tests. “Getting the vaccine (should be) the easy choice,” Dr. Leana Wen, a proponent of vaccine mandates, told USA TODAY. “Opting out has to be the hard choice.” Wen, an emergency physician and public professor at George Washington University, is among experts who say vaccine requirements should be seen as akin to laws against drunk driving and other reckless behavior.

Covid Explodes in Cancun, Los Cabos as New Wave Hits Mexico (Bloomberg) A third coronavirus wave fueled by the highly contagious delta variant is battering two of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations on opposite coasts, Los Cabos in the Pacific and Cancun on the Caribbean. In Cancun, cases have soared to a point where the Hard Rock hotel has set aside two floors for guests with symptoms. Some hotels say they offer discounts for those in quarantine until they’re no longer contagious. In Baja California Sur, where Los Cabos is located, authorities are again rushing to add beds to strained hospitals, which reached 75% capacity last week before improving to 62% on Thursday. Beaches in the town of La Paz were ordered closed, though local media show many ignoring the order. Since Mexico hasn’t limited who can fly during the pandemic, both domestic and international tourists have flocked to the resort areas. Like much of Latin America, Mexico has been slammed by Covid, among the worst hit in the world.

Venezuelans Enduring Day-Long Waits to Fill Gasoline Tanks (Bloomberg) Venezuela’s capital city is once again rationing gasoline after output at state-owned refineries slumped, forcing motorists to endure day-long queues to top off tanks. Shortages have returned to Caracas, prompting drivers to prowl the streets for open filling stations as lines stretch for blocks in some areas. Because of breakdowns at Petroleos de Venezuela SA fuel-making plants, gasoline output has crashed by more than 40% since the end of June, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation. Struggling with the impact of U.S. sanctions and scant foreign investment, PDVSA has been hit by failures at several of its largest plants. Just two of six refineries are currently operational, according to three people with direct knowledge who requested anonymity because they are not authorized to speak publicly about the situation.

Germany: Devastating floods raise fears for future (The Week) Entire towns in western Germany were devastated last week by “the flood of the century,” said Susanne Scholz at Express, and the whole country is in shock. The images on TV news looked like they were coming from a tropical monsoon zone, not our first-world nation. Never did we think we would see our own citizens “trapped in houses on the verge of collapse, in danger of being swept away by masses of water.” Days of torrential rain caused rivers to burst their banks in the states of Rhineland-Palatinate and North Rhine-Westphalia, and in neighboring Belgium and the Netherlands. While authorities say it’s too early to put a price tag on the damage, the images of submerged homes and electrical stations, obliterated bridges, and cars crumpled by fallen trees tell a tale of vast material loss. “The German language hardly knows any words for the devastation that has been wrought,” said Chancellor Angela Merkel. She praised the thousands of volunteers who came to bail water, load sandbags, and search for survivors.      “Disaster control clearly failed,” said Peter Tiede at Bild. State and local authorities responsible for evacuation warnings relied on smartphone apps that many Germans don’t have—and service was out anyway because the storms had downed the cell towers. Only old-fashioned sirens work in such emergencies, yet our few loudspeaker vans never left the depots. Public radio, meanwhile, “was playing pop music while hundreds of people were being washed away, houses collapsing, villages razed to the ground.” It’s simply inexcusable. “How bad will it get when such a flood hits a major city like Cologne or Hamburg instead of villages and small towns?”

To reach a peace deal, Taliban say Afghan president must go (AP) The Taliban say they don’t want to monopolize power, but they insist there won’t be peace in Afghanistan until there is a new negotiated government in Kabul and President Ashraf Ghani is removed. The Taliban have swiftly captured territory in recent weeks, seized strategic border crossings and are threatening a number of provincial capitals—advances that come as the last U.S. and NATO soldiers leave Afghanistan. Memories of the Taliban’s last time in power some 20 years ago, when they enforced a harsh brand of Islam that denied girls an education and barred women from work, have stoked fears of their return among many. Afghans who can afford it are applying by the thousands for visas to leave Afghanistan, fearing a violent descent into chaos. The U.S.-NATO withdrawal is more than 95% complete and due to be finished by Aug. 31.

Heavy rain in India triggers floods, landslides; at least 125 dead (Reuters) Rescue teams in India struggled through thick sludge and debris on Saturday to reach dozens of submerged homes as the death toll from landslides and accidents caused by torrential monsoon rain rose to 125. Maharashtra state is being hit by the heaviest rain in July in four decades, experts say. Downpours lasting several days have severely affected the lives of hundreds of thousands, while major rivers are in danger of bursting their banks. In Taliye, about 180 km (110 miles) southeast of the financial capital of Mumbai, the death toll rose to 42 with the recovery of four more bodies after landslides flattened most homes in the village, a senior Maharashtra government official said. Parts of India’s west coast have received up to 594 mm (23 inches) of rain, forcing authorities to move people out of vulnerable areas as they released water from dams about to overflow.

Vietnam locks down capital Hanoi for 15 days as cases rise (AP) Vietnam announced a 15-day lockdown in the capital Hanoi starting Saturday as a coronavirus surge spread from the southern Mekong Delta region. The lockdown order, issued late Friday night, bans the gathering of more than two people in public. Only government offices, hospitals and essential businesses are allowed to stay open. Earlier in the week, the city had suspended all outdoor activities and ordered non-essential businesses to close following an increase in cases.

Thousands protest lockdown in Sydney, several arrested (AP) Thousands of people took to the streets of Sydney and other Australian cities on Saturday to protest lockdown restrictions amid another surge in cases, and police made several arrests after crowds broke through barriers and threw plastic bottles and plants. There was a heavy police presence in Sydney, including mounted police and riot officers in response to what authorities said was unauthorized protest activity. Police confirmed a number of arrests had been made after objects were thrown at officers. Greater Sydney has been locked down for the past four weeks, with residents only able to leave home with a reasonable excuse. In Melbourne, thousands of protesters without masks turned out downtown chanting “freedom.” Some of them lit flares as they gathered outside Victoria state’s Parliament House. They held banners, including one that read: “This is not about a virus it’s about total government control of the people.”

Power outages cripple parts of the Middle East amid record heat waves and rising unrest (Washington Post) Record heat waves and crippling energy shortages across much of the Middle East are plunging homes and businesses from Lebanon to Iran into darkness and stirring unrest as poor families swelter while many of the rich stay cool with backup generators. Power outages have pushed hospitals to a crisis point. Family businesses are struggling to survive. In some cities, the streetlights barely work. Temperatures in several Middle Eastern countries this summer have topped 122 degrees Fahrenheit—50 degrees Celsius—including in Iran, which hit 123.8, and Iraq, which nearly matched last year’s record of 125.2. Decades of neglect and underinvestment have left power grids unable to cope. Drought has crippled hydroelectric generation. Economic crises roiling several countries mean governments are now even struggling to purchase the fuel needed to generate power.

Over 71% of Lebanon’s population risks losing access to safe water—UNICEF (Reuters) The United Nations warned on Friday that more than four million people in Lebanon, including one million refugees risked losing access to safe water as shortages of funding, fuel and supplies affect water pumping. “UNICEF estimates that most water pumping will gradually cease across the country in the next four to six weeks,” a statement by the U.N. body said. Lebanon is battling an economic meltdown that has propelled more than half of its population into poverty and seen its currency lose over 90% of its value in less than two years. The financial crisis has translated into severe shortages of basic goods such as fuel and medicine as dollars run dry. UNICEF said that should the public water supply system collapse, water costs could jump by 200% a month as water would be secured from private water suppliers.

[sarkarinaukrinotifications]

Mail Motor Service Recruitment 2021

Mail Motor Service Recruitment 2021

LATEST MAIL MOTOR SERVICE JOBS 2021 LIST: Name of Post – Total Vacancies Last Date Details Staff Car Driver for MMS Mumbai – 12 10/03/2021 Click Here >> Staff Car Driver for MMS Mumbai – 16 posts by Deputation / Absorption 15/02/2021 Click Here >> Staff Car Driver for MMS Nagpur – 01 Post 20/02/2021 Click Here >> Mail Motor Service (MMS) Mumbai invites applications from eligible…

[gktodaycurrentaffairs]

Mail Motor Service Recruitment 2021

Mail Motor Service Recruitment 2021

LATEST MAIL MOTOR SERVICE JOBS 2021 LIST: Name of Post – Total Vacancies Last Date Details Staff Car Driver for MMS Mumbai – 12 10/03/2021 Click Here >> Staff Car Driver for MMS Mumbai – 16 posts by Deputation / Absorption 15/02/2021 Click Here >> Staff Car Driver for MMS Nagpur – 01 Post 20/02/2021 Click Here >> Mail Motor Service (MMS) Mumbai invites applications from eligible…

[upsarkarijob]

India Post Office Recruitment 2021 डाक विभाग भर्ती Amply Now

India Post Office Recruitment 2021 डाक विभाग भर्ती Amply Now

India Post Office Recruitment 2021 (इंडिया पोस्ट ऑफिस भर्ती 2021) India Post Office Vacancy 2021-2022 भारतीय डाक विभाग भर्ती 2021 India Post Office Bharti 2021 India Post Office Jobs 2021: India Post Office (इंडिया पोस्ट ऑफिस भर्ती) 9 contractual posts of Staff Car Driver (MMS Delhi) are to be filled in India Post Office. India Post Office Recruitment 2021 Interested candidates may send their…

[pauloppp]

India Post Mail Motor Service (MMS) Staff Car Driver Posts | Apply Now

India Post Mail Motor Service (MMS) Staff Car Driver Posts | Apply Now

Department Of Posts India, Govt. of India.

In the latest job notification, India Post announces job vacancies for Staff Car Driver Posts in the Sr. Manager, MMS, Mumbai and SSPO’s/SPO’s under PMG Goa Division on a deputation/ absorption basis.

Under India Post Staff Car Driver Recruitment 2020, candidates who are a central govt. employee with required qualifications can apply.

The…

[getdreamjobonline]

डाक विभाग में 10वीं पास स्टाफ कार ड्राइवर के पदों पर निकली भर्ती, यहां से करें आवेदन

10th Pass Govt Jobs: इंडियन पोस्टल डिपार्टमेंट में दसवीं पास के लिए स्टाफ कार ड्राइवर के पदों पर भर्तियां निकाली हैं। इच्छुक अभ्यर्थी डाक के जरिए 13 नवंबर तक आवेदन भेज सकते हैं. भारतीय डाक विभाग में दसवीं पास के लिए भर्तियां आमंत्रित की हैं। इन रिक्त पदों पर भर्ती के लिए अभ्यर्थी डाक विभाग के जरिये आवेदन भेज सकता है। डाक विभाग ने कुल 10 पदों पर ये रिक्तियां निकाली हैं।

रिक्तियों का विवरण: पद: स्टाफ कार ड्राइवर कुल रिक्तियां: 10 (इसमें से अनारक्षित- 05 पद हैं)

शैक्षणिक योग्यता: इन पदों के लिए अभ्यर्थी को मान्यता प्राप्त स्कूली शिक्षा बोर्ड से दसवीं पास होना चाहिए। अभ्यर्थी 13 नवंबर तक इसमें आवेदन कर सकते हैं।

पात्रता अभ्यर्थी के पास हल्के और भारी वाहन चलाने का वैध ड्राइविंग लाइसेंस भी होना चाहिए। इसके अलावा आवेदक को मोटर मेकेनिज्म की जानकारी होने के अलावा ड्राइविंग का कम से कम तीन वर्ष का अनुभव होना चाहिए।

तय आयु सीमा: अभ्यर्थी को आवेदन के लिए न्यूनतम 18 और अधिकतम 27 वर्ष का होना चाहिए. इन पदों पर एससी/एसटी उम्मीदवारों को पांच वर्ष और ओबीसी उम्मीदवारों को तीन वर्ष ���ी छूट दी जाएगी। इन पदों पर वेतनमान 19,900 रुपये दिया गया है। इसके अलावा इसमें आवेदन शुल्क के तौर पर आवेदन को 100 रुपये देय होंगे. आवेदक को इसका भुगतान इंडियन पोस्टल ऑर्डर के जरिए करना होगा।

चयन प्रक्रिया: योग्य उम्मीदवारों का चयन उनके शैक्षणिक कागजात के अलावा ड्राइविंग टेस्ट में प्रदर्शन के आधार पर होगा.

ऐसे करें आवेदन

सबसे पहले आधिकारिक वेबसाइट indiapost.gov.in पर लॉग इन करें। इसके बाद होमपेज खुलने पर नीचे दिए गए "Opportunities" ऑप्शन पर क्लिक करें। यहाँ क्लिक करते ही यहां एक नया वेबपेज खुल जाएगा। यहां पर 16 Sep Notification for direct recruitment of 10(Ten) Staff Car driver posts at MMS, Patna टाइटल दिखेगा, इस पर क्ल‍िक करें और आवेदन प्रक्रिया को पूरा करें।

PDF में मिलेगी जानकारी इस शीर्षक के नीचे दिख रहे लाल रंग के पीडीएफ साइन पर क्लिक करते ही इन रिक्तियों से संबंधित सारी जानकारी खुल जाएगी। ऐसा करते ही रिक्तियों से संबंधित विज्ञापन खुल जाएगा। विज्ञापन को ठीक से पढ़कर उचित योग्यता है तो दिए गए बिंदुओं के आधार पर जानकारी देकर आवेदन दिए गए पते पर भेज दें।

आवेदन भेजने का पता मैनेजर, मेल मोटर सर्विस, जीपीओ कैम्पस, पटना-800001

from Patrika : India's Leading Hindi News Portal https://www.patrika.com/jobs/apply-for-10th-pass-staff-car-driver-post-in-indian-postal-department-5183598/