#Machines and Marshmallows

[runes-menagerie]

Machines and Marshmallows || closed

Amethyst hadn't been on the upper levels very much but she had recently lost the small safe haven she had in the Undercity so she had no choice but to try in Piltover. So far she had had little luck but when she chanced upon an unlocked window leading into an empty room, she slipped inside.

Only to be thoroughly confused by what she saw. Machines like nothing she knew were everywhere along with drawings. Then it started to make sense as Knowledge took over to examine them more closely. It still didn't make much sense but she could tell it wasn't gibberish at least.

Knowledge retreated as Dark once more took control. She was just about to leave when she noticed something. Upon closer inspection it proved to be a box of snacks. She grinned and quickly began filling her pockets before pausing to have an internal conversation. At the end of which it was decided that she wouldn't take all of it since if this person always kept such a stash then this could be a steady source of food if she was careful.

So she carefully sorted through that to take, trying to not take the last of anything and to make sure it wouldn't be noticed. She then looked around a bit more and discovered a small crawl space that only someone as small as her would be able to access. It could make for a safe sleeping place depending on how often the owner of this place was around.

For now she planned to leave but before she did, Innocence took over and spent some time picking up all the little screws, bolts, and other bits from the floor before placing them on a table where they wouldn't roll off again. Dark then took over again and she left just as she sensed and heard someone getting close to the door into the space.

@hexcoremagician

[halfusek]

Y 💀 U B R I N G D E A T H

Collab with @rinkopatateneko <3

I did the sketch and they did this fantastic coloring! You can see some process photos under the cut hehe~

[pinballhaven]

Ghostbusters (Stern, 2016)

[gluttonyedits]

requested by @bendyy-blog: sepia and black Ink Demon stimboard with violence • • • # • • • # • • •

[insane-control-room]

fallen down (3/3)

Joey is invited to an art convention by Nathan. He goes, and is delighted by the turn of events. So much so, that he finds his dreams clashing again.

chapter 1: ink demonth - rival chapter 2: ink demonth - heartbeat chapter 3: ink demonth - hide

For @halfusek; inspired by his You Left Me in a Heartbeat :) Rated: G+ Warnings: unhealthy relationships, alcoholism, not actually cute AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/58747897/chapters/149709112 Length: 1500

They went out to the park again, buying cheap (but good) sidecar food, drinking cool Coca-Cola, walking (or rolling) and talking for hours. They sketched the landscape together, Joey proudly presenting Henry with a drawing of the other man. It made Henry snort, roll his eyes- but he carefully folded it and put it in his breast pocket anyways. The gesture touched Joey's heart, swelling with joy.

Everything was perfect. Joey would never want it to be any other way.

Before they had left, Joey had placed a bottle of champagne into the refrigerator, and now that they returned, he smugly retrieved it- an expensive gift from Nathan, not that he would tell Henry, whose eyes widened with surprise, a smile blooming on his face once again.

"I'm going to take a shower, first," Henry apologetically told him, scratching at the back of his neck. "It's been... way too long since I've had one."

"No worries," Joey smiled at him, picturing Henry in the shower. Henry laughed at him, a flush going across his face as he easily recognized the ogling look his former business partner (boyfriend? were they boyfriends now?) was giving him, and he tossed a towel into Joey's face. "Fine. I'll go do the dishes. I see how it is."

Henry chuckled at him and rolled his eyes, slipping into the bathroom. Joey hummed as he cleaned the plates left for the last two days, thankful that his height allowed him to reach the sink from his wheelchair.

A ringing noise.

A phone was ringing.

Joey stilled, feeling an uncomfortable sensation in the core of his stomach and chest. His head gradually turned to look at the ringing phone, and he carefully moved to answer it.

"Um, this is the Stein residence," he said slowly, shifting in his seat. "Henry's not available right now."

"Joey!" Grant's voice was a slap in the face- a cold splash of ink reminding him of the studio. "I finally found where you were hiding out! I got Henry's number from Nathan- he didn't want to tell me where you were, but I have a way of dealing with stubborn people. Like you!"

"I'm not stubborn!" Joey gasped. "I'm... persistent!"

"Yes, Joey, I know," Grant's voice, while exasperated, was tinged with fondness, as well as concern. "You were supposed to be back on Tuesday at the latest, Joey. It's Friday- and after hours."

"I've got things to do, here, Grant," Joey waved off his worries. "I'm too busy."

"Oh, really," Grant's sarcastic grumble made Joey smile. "Busy with Henry, are you?"

Joey, flustered and flabbergasted, did not know what to say to that.

"In all seriousness, you need to come back to New York," Grant's voice had a bit of harried pleading to it. "The studio needs you."

"Nah, Grant, listen," Joey smiled- a smile that would have probably charmed Grant over, if he could see it. "You got this. I hired you to run the business, remember?"

"You hired me to do your paperwork, manage your funding, and do your taxes," Grant corrected him. "I cannot control the animators and force them to work. They're not working because the boss is vacationing in California. If the animators don't work, the animations don't get done. If the animations don't get done, we don't have anything to put on the air. We don't put anything on the air, we bleed cash. Understand?"

Joey's jaw clenched.

"And don't think I don't see those credit card statements running up," Grant cautioned. "All those fancy restaurants- they add up, Joey. You can't act like a butter and egg man."

"I don't want to go back yet." he forced himself to confess, desperately trying to figure out a way to work around the conundrum. "Can't I just work from here, and mail in the storyboards?"

"Mail is too slow, and still, not addressing the morale issue," Grant dismissed. Joey's hand tightened on the phone, almost fantasizing that it was Grant's throat. "You need to be here, Joey. There's no other way around it."

"I'm staying here."

"You can't hide from your responsibilities, Joey! If your ass is not in your office by Tuesday next week, my ass is out of your studio," Grant snapped. Joey struggled to process his accountant's words, jaw dropping open. "I'm giving you a warning, Joey. Consider this my two week's notice."

"Over the phone?" Joey weakly asked. Grant barked a laugh, and Joey could hear him scribbling something on a paper. "What are you doing?"

"I'm making two written copies," Grant replied. "One that's going on your desk, the other that I'm mailing to California. By the time it gets to you, time's probably going to be up."

"Wait, Grant, don't do this to me," it was Joey's turn to beg. "I- I'll figure something out, okay?"

"And you better figure out that your studio needs you more than you need to be with a washed out-" Grant cut himself off, taking in a deep breath. "A man who left you. I'll see you on Tuesday. And if I don't... well, I don't know if I'll see you ever again."

Joey's hand shook fiercely as he put the phone down. Rage and confusion cascaded through his veins, resulting in an uncomfortably hot chill. Joey could hear Henry humming in the bathroom, soothing him even as it made his nerves tighten considerably. He exhaled, turning back to the kitchen and slowly wheeling himself to the dishes.

Henry helped set the table this time, taking out the dinner they had prepared before going to the park. The anger in Joey's chest simmered down as the time passed between them with ease and comfort.

"Something on your mind, Joey?" Henry asked as he sat down to eat, pouring the champagne into a wine glass for his friend. Joey shrugged, trying to think around his words as he nibbled at the cheese platter. "Come on. I know you better than that, Joey. Something's bothering you."

"I got a call from Grant," he replied, the words coming out in a rush. "He's- he's my accountant. The studio's accountant. He threatened to quit if I don't go back to New York."

Henry chewed on the words, slowly sipping at his champagne.

"Well, it is your dream," he commented. "And I'm not going anywhere. We can figure something out."

"I don't want to leave you," Joey whined, sinking in his seat. Henry reached to give Joey's hand a reassuring, grounding squeeze. "I've finally found my heartbeat again...."

"You can do both, you know," Henry smiled at him. "I know you want it. Want it want it."

Joey swallowed harshly at the echo of words from long ago.

"I want you, too," Joey whispered. "Want you, want you."

Henry stood up, coming to Joey's side. He cupped his cheek, lifting his head to face his own. He leaned down, pressing his lips to Joey's. Joey raised his hands to Henry's face, touching over, tilting his head to get his nose out of the way to kiss him better. Henry's arm came down his back, pulling him closer.

They pulled apart after a long moment, leaving Joey breathless.

"We'll work it out," Henry promised- and unlike Joey's tin promises, Henry's were silver. Joey melted at the words, the touch. "You can't hide here with me, Joey. You've got a life, dreams."

"You are my life," Joey honestly told him, caressing his face. "Every day I spend with you, I'm alive again."

"You gave me up for your dreams before," Henry told him. Joey violently shook his head. "What do you mean, 'no'?"

"I gave you up," Joey sucked in a breath, "For your dreams. I thought you would be... happy. I was a fool in love, Henry, and I still am. But this time, I'm not letting you go. You're as much a part of my dreams as those cartoons. I won't hide that anymore."

Henry kissed him again.

He kissed him again as he saw him off at the train station.

Joey felt like a new man as he rolled into the studio on Tuesday. He went directly to Grant's office, knocking on the door with a bright, blinding smile.

Grant stared at him, a faint of his own smile on his lips.

"Glad to see you back, Mr. Drew," he said quietly. "And I'm happy that I don't have to quit on you, anymore."

"Thanks for not leaving just yet," Joey beamed at him, eyes half lidded. "I'd hate to lose my favorite accountant."

"I'd hate to lose this crappy job," Grant bantered back. Joey grinned, relaxing. "There's some things for you to sign on your desk. Check in on the animators, will you? Keep them in line."

"Will do," Joey replied. After stopping in the art department, he settled at his desk, picking up the papers. Boring. He could... Joey, with a smile, reached for his phone. It was answered after a few rings. "Hello, Henry."

"Hello, dreamer."

[feietouhuo]

SHIPPING INFO. Answer the following for your muse(s) so people know how shipping works on your blog.

What’s your OTP for your Muse(s)?

my OTPs are anything xianle trio / any iteration of them <3 that is all. i am biased. the more polys the better. i love geometry

What are you willing to RP when it comes to shipping?

i don't have any boundaries, i'm going to be honest with you LMAO any trope, scenario, dead dove or not. i do have NOTPs, but i can be persuaded if it's good enough or in character enough. i let things come as they come, that's all.

How large does the age gap have to be to make it uncomfortable?

fuck around and find out <3 but eh, i just don't like ships with toddler aged people i guess

Are you selective when shipping?

no. i don't tend to like a lot of the popular fanon ships, so it looks like i am. but i am Not

How far do steamy moments have to go before they’re considered NSFW?

i consider them nsfw the second i have to describe a dick or pussy in any way, shape, or form ..... i am embarrassed easily ...

Who are other muses you ship your muse with?

ofc the love of my life's muses <33 @/lianlianbushe (feng xin) and @/woxingwosu (xie lian) we also got dia @/diivineray (xie lian and pei ming [one-sided LMAO]) who is also the love of my life. i have two hands, it is not cheating <3

Does one have to ask to ship with you?

not necessarily tbh LOL if it comes naturally, i'll honestly accept it. or if you see something suggestive for ask prompts, i will also roll with it. DM me, i'll send u eye emojis. i might say no cause i just have NOTPs but ???? you can change my mind i swear

How often do you like to ship?

i love shipping what is life FOR without shipping???? mmmmm romance

Are you multiship?

yes. i don't practice exclusivity when it comes to ships. life is definitely more fun the more you have, so :D

Are you ship obsessed or ship more-or-less?

definitely very ship obsessed LOOOOL i love watching two characters have a friendship that slowly develops into something more, with or without difficulties and .... i am soft . also for my ships specifically, being in love is so much more complicated than not, and i love complicated

What is your favorite ship in your current fandom?

mulian mulian mulian mulian mulian mulian muli —

Finally, how does one ship with you?

message meeeeeeeeeeeee (asks, DMs, or discord)

tagged. @heavnslayer tagging. @woxingwosu @diivineray

[brandonsdrunkagain]

Brew Punks!! Marshmallow Nightmares, marshmallow variant of Field Of Nightmares from Rally Cap Brewing, DDH Ghost in the Machine from Parish Brewing, Sendy IPA from Outer Range Brewing, Coffey and Pancakes Imperial Stout with Blueberries, Maple Syrup and Coffee from Rally Cap Brewing, Punk Roc from Corker, Tidus, The Morons and TMason and the Bricklayers in the brewery, Zombie Prom Kolsch and not so little Nigel.

[theevilicecreamsoda]

Hi chat, just had a dream that someone crawled into my bed(i knew him) and i started grooming him like a cat, wtf does this mean

[moptopper]

absolutely obsessed with bubblegum pop right now

[uuuhshiny]

Russell Crowe in War Machine

[halfusek]

GAME!

[bunnyb34r]

Peepsi would be a lovely name for a baby girl :)

[overcastedsays]

happy easter! gotta love the new update

[Image ID: Image 1 of 3. A digital doodle depicting V1, V2, and Gabriel ultrakill all with bunny ears. V1 and V2 giggle amongst themselves while Gabriel yells at them for mocking him. The text behind Gabriel reads "THIS IS ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE!! STOP IT THIS INSTANT MACHINE!! AS THE RIGHTEOUS HAND OF THE FATHER I REFUSE TO BE MOCKED BY SUCH LESSER BEINGS- *trails off into scribbles*" /End ID] [Image ID: Image 1 of 3. A digital drawing of a Peeps Marshmallows package that resembles the Flesh Prison and contains 4 Minos Prime shaped peeps. The text on the packaging reads "Prime. Minosmallow. 100% Blood. 8 Minos". /End ID] [Image ID: Image 3 of 3. A 2-paneled digital doodle of V1 fighting a Filth over a package of Minosmallows (see image 2). In the first panel, V1 and the filth are on the ground both biting onto the package. In the second frame, V1 violently shakes the filth around. They both have bunny ears. /End ID]

[insane-control-room]

fallen down (2/3)

Joey is invited to an art convention by Nathan. He goes, and is delighted by the turn of events. So much so, that he finds his dreams clashing again.

chapter 1: ink demonth - rival chapter 2: ink demonth - heartbeat chapter 3: ink demonth - hide

For @halfusek; inspired by his You Left Me in a Heartbeat :) Rated: G+ Warnings: unhealthy relationships, alcoholism, not actually cute AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/58747897/chapters/149709064 Length: 3200

Linda was right- there was a touch of guilt in Henry’s eyes that was constantly blinked away. It was something that Joey chose to ignore- as it only served his purposes. Perhaps a bit of an undercut way, but it certainly paid for itself. Conversation flowed between them like the wine into Henry’s glass, smooth, albeit a touch one sided. Henry seemed to be in a bit of a liverish, stuporous state, though Joey could hardly care about that. He was just completely beyond ecstatic to be spending time with his dearest, nicest, most wonderful friend. Henry seemed to simply be enjoying the fact that Joey’s credit card was on the tab- though he relaxed with each glass he imbibed. Dwelling on the past seemed to be a good thing for the shorter man, at least with Joey. Maybe not with Linda, as she could hardly bask in the memory of those moving pictures- she only liked them for Henry, after all. The two of them spent about two hours in the restaurant- so far making up for about four wonderful hours. Joey was rather pleasantly surprised that Henry was so easy to talk to again after all this time.

Joey asked Henry about parks or recreational spaces to go to, and Henry did mention that there was a quiet park that he enjoyed strolling through. Joey beamed, asking if Henry would want to go there with him, and to his absolute delight and satisfaction, Henry agreed. At this point, Linda should have been extracted from their home- and Henry would be all Joey’s once again, without any interference. It was sincerely a dream come true. They walked and talked through the park, and when Henry sobered somewhat, he offered to push Joey’s wheelchair. Joey instantly agreed. He was able to smile freely, leaning his head back as he basked in Henry’s proximity, the ease of simply being around him. So what if there was guilt simmering in the back of his eyes? Maybe he deserved it. After all, he was the cause of Joey’s paralysis.

They spent so long at the park that they were able to see the stars twinkling above them, Joey sighing wistfully at the dream come true; a wish upon a star. He, buying more time for Linda, asked if Henry wanted to go anywhere in particular for dinner - and Henry said the name of a dive that had to have a bar included. Not that Joey minded all that much. Any time with Henry was good time with Henry. 

Joey did not think too hard about how Henry seemed to all but forget the fact his wife even existed, neither saying that he needed to tell her where he was nor showing much concern for her wellbeing at all. In fact, during all of their lengthy conversations, Henry perhaps mentioned her two or three times at most. That was not a problem for Joey, though. The sooner he could forget about that woman, the better for both of them. 

They ate and drank, and ended up rather close at the bar seats to be able to hear each other better. Before long, they were more than ready to return home after such a long day out. Henry casually asked if Joey wanted to go to his home with him, not even mentioning Linda. Of course, Joey enthusiastically agreed to accompany him. 

They talked, and talked, and talked until they fell asleep on Henry’s couch, side by side. There was no trace of Linda, except, perhaps a faint trace of perfume and the noticeable absence of someone who was once constantly present, yet gradually faded away into the shadows until only the echo remains. 

Joey hardly had time for that, though. He was with Henry, and that was what mattered- nothing else. 

The next day, they had virtually the same routine- they went to the convention (and there, Joey made a furtive call to Nathan to check in and make sure everything went well [it did], and to inform him to drop off his bags at Henry’s house. As well as indefinitely put his train ticket on hold. He was with Henry, and that was what mattered.), they talked to people about the toons and their plans (Joey’s plans, at least), they looked at new paints, went out to lunch, and went to a museum instead of the park (reminding Joey of when they were both students again, going to study from the long dead great artists through emulation), went back to the convention, and went to dinner. 

This time, when they got home, Henry was reasonably sober. He asked what Joey wanted to do, and Joey asked if he wanted to watch a movie. Henry agreed- and they set up on the couch again. While the television played whatever was on the waves, Joey curled up next to Henry. A soft arm wrapped around his back, making him smile. Yes, Linda was right, damn her. They were made for each other. 

Joey woke the next day on the couch, shoulders aching. Henry was in the kitchen, making a cup of coffee for himself. Joey pulled himself into his wheelchair and rolled in, grinning at Henry.

“Enough in the pot for me?” Joey asked. Henry glanced, and nodded, pulling down another clean cup. Joey smiled - there was not much better than Henry’s coffee. It was not made perfectly, but Joey could hardly complain as it was Henry being the one getting the drink for him, and putting his time and effort into doing so… it made his stomach flip flop. As he took slow sips of the bitter, hot drink, Joey realized with some dull alarm that the convention was over. No longer would there be an easy way to keep distracting the apparently forgetful (was he always so scatterbrained?) artist. Joey swallowed down what was in his mouth slowly, feeling it jam in his throat. “Ah… Henry, what do you suppose we’re going to do today?” 

Henry blinked at him, scratching at his unkempt jawline. 

“Want to play some board games?” Henry offered. Joey’s smile went from slightly nervous to absolutely elated- keeping Henry’s attention on him was far easier than he ever dreamed it to be. Truth be told, it was more attention than he felt he ever really received from the man, ever since Linda had come into the picture. “I’ll take that as a ‘yes’.”

Henry asked which game Joey wanted to play, and he could hardly remember the answer he gave- far too excited to really consider the words coming out of his mouth. So when he found himself in a rather precarious position during chess, he blinked twice at the board as though that could magically change the position of all the various pieces and take him away from the stalemate he was building himself into - between a knight and a bishop. The game ended with Joey’s king still standing - both of them getting a bit too hungry to keep playing (as with their coffees, they had not eaten breakfast). The chess then was forgotten in favor of another game, and then another, and then lunch. Joey was glad to see Henry was enjoying himself. 

They went out to dinner again - once again, Joey paying. Come to think of it, Joey did not think he heard Henry mentioning a job. Not that it mattered. Why would Henry need a job when Joey had an entire animation studio behind them? They would be secure, happy even. 

Once again, Joey fell asleep on the couch- but he hardly cared, considering that he was with Henry- he could hear him snoring from the other room. He could hardly tell what Linda was talking about with Henry being depressed and drunk all the time- he was having a great time. Sure, Henry was drinking frequently, and did not appear to have a job, but why would Joey care about that?

Joey woke up the next day to Henry slamming the front door. He turned his head to look where he went and frowned. His gaze moved to the clock - a bit after four am. He wondered where on Earth Henry was going off to, but decided it was not a big deal, pulling the blanket tighter around him as he drifted back to sleep, knowing Henry would return sooner or later. 

While he was correct about that, by the time Henry did return, Joey was indeed starting to worry over his absence. It was nearly evening, Joey having eaten a solitary breakfast and lunch, as well as cleaned in the apartment, finding himself restless with nerves. The door opened quietly when the man came back at last.

“Henry- where have you been?” Joey asked, tilting his head. His smile faltered slightly as a flash of anger spiked in Henry’s eye, though it mellowed into the alcoholic stupor he was in. Joey quickly changed the subject. “Dinner is almost ready… I put a lasagna in the oven.”

“You sounded like Linda for a moment,” Henry scoffed, brow narrowing to a sharp ‘v’ shape for a moment before it faded. Henry glanced around the house, and grumbled, “Thanks for cleaning up in here, it was a real mess. I’m going to lay down.” 

“Okay,” Joey smiled at him, brimming with the gratitude that he had received. “I’ll wake you when dinner is ready.”

“Fine,” Henry replied, and then the door to his room closed. Joey let out a sigh of relief that Henry was home safe. Home safe with him. After the lasagna finished cooking, Joey went to wake Henry. The man was snoring off his hangover. Joey looked at the lines in his face, the round shape of his body under the covers, and wanted nothing more than to curl up beside him. Instead, Joey reached out to shake Henry’s shoulders to wake him. Henry’s eyes opened blearily, a warm smile crossing Joey’s face. “Is dinner ready already…?”

“Yes, it is,” Joey cheerfully confirmed. “Come and eat with me.” 

Henry grumbled something unintelligible, but he did get up. He blinked, brow furrowed with the remnants of his headache.

“I’ll fix you some tea,” Joey assured him, wheeling to the kitchen. “That’ll help your head.”

“Thanks.”

Joey, back to Henry, positively glowed once again. It was so good to hear Henry’s voice again- even better to hear it saying positive things to him. It was like it was overwriting the last things that the man said to him before disappearing off into the dead of night. He basked in the happiness for another moment, and then he returned to Henry with the tea- glad he already put the lasagna and cutlery on the table. They ate, and discussed a plan for the next day- what they wanted to do, where they wanted to eat. Henry seemed more than happy to keep letting Joey pay, and Joey, the sucker he was, was enthusiastic to keep paying. They fell asleep on the couch together again, Joey's hand curled over Henry's shoulder, and Henry's broad arm around the back he broke. 

Joey felt like he could go to sleep like that every night, waking every morning with that warm, soft body beside him. 

The next day was perfect, exactly as they planned it to go.

Nothing was more wonderful, more joyful, than spending every day with Henry. Joey found himself constantly looking forwards to the next day, the next hour, the next moment with Henry. Each and every consecutive minute built up exponential happiness. So what if Henry drank every day? So what if neither of them were working? They were together, and that was what mattered.

It was extraordinary- the way that things shifted so suddenly and intensely. One day, Joey was headfirst in work, and work alone, and now, his head was stuck in the clouds. Part of him pleaded to go back down, but there was not a sane thought in his mind around Henry- he was absolutely crazy about that man. They had dinner and talked and the only thing in Joey's mind was how he could extend this dreamlike moment forever.

He woke up in Henry's bed- groggy and disconcerted, trying to remember how he got there. Then, he recalled- Henry had been crying; and Joey heard him from the couch. Pulled himself into his wheelchair, and rolled into Henry's bedroom.

"She left me," Henry miserably sobbed when Joey's hand pressed to his shoulder. "She left...."

"Who left?" Joey inquired, playing himself to be mystified. Henry shuddered, and replied; "Linda. My wife."

"I didn't know you were still together," Joey stated with mock surprise, looking around the room, as though looking for a sign of her. "When did that happen?"

"I- I think during the convention," Henry's brow furrowed. He sniffled again, rubbing at his face. "You wouldn't know where she would be, right...?"

"No clue," Joey lied through his teeth, feeling the smug fireworks of success ringing in his ears once again. "Honestly, I didn't even realize that it was so recent. These last few days, Henry, have been... right out of a dream."

He let the silence simmer for a moment, blue eyes drifting to his. His hand shifted to Henry's, giving a light, impassioned squeeze.

"Our dream."

It took a moment, a slight smile crawling over his face. It was not entirely happy, no, but it was a smile nonetheless. Then he crumpled, leaning over and pulling Joey into a crude embrace. Joey, startled for a moment, felt a grin blossom over his face, and he hugged back, holding Henry so tightly, because he never wanted to let go.

Now, he woke in his best friend's bed. Henry, in their hug, had tugged him onto it, then shifted to cry into Joey's chest for what felt like hours. Joey held him the whole time, soothing him and murmuring assurances. Now, Henry was still snoring, his arm around Joey's side and back. Joey felt as though he might have a heart attack out of sheer joy. There was nothing better than this. Absolutely nothing. Unthinkingly, he pressed a kiss to Henry's cheekbone, nose nudging the glasses that he had fallen asleep wearing. Joey reached to take them off, but as he did, Henry stirred.

"Mngh. G'morning, Joey," he rumbled, rubbing his eyes under his glasses. "Did you sleep ok?"

"Never better," Joey honestly replied. He gave Henry's shoulder a squeeze, beaming at the man. "And you?"

"I appreciate you being here for me," Henry looked away, towards a wall that might have once held a picture that had since been removed. "It's... a hard time."

"I'm always here for you, Henry," Joey told him, reaching for his hand again. Unfortunately, Henry did not reciprocate the motion this time. Joey did not press it, even as his heart twinged uncomfortably. "On the good and bad days."

Henry did not reply, only moved to get up. Joey leaned back to allow him to exit the bed, and then made a quiet noise of surprise as Henry turned to help him out of the bed and into his wheelchair. He tried not to lean into the incidental embrace, bathing in the dopamine flood in his brain at the contact. The urge to kiss Henry again rose again- the ghostly feeling of his stubble scratched at his lips. He had done that. He had kissed Henry's cheek- and could not wait to be able to do so again, and again, and again.

Then he was in his wheelchair, and the day started anew. Breakfast. Games. Drawing. Talking. No longer one sided, without Linda being an obtrusive block in communication- her absence in fact contributing to the closeness that rapidly grew.

That night, Henry suggested that they go bar hopping, hitting up all of the former animator's favorite joints. Joey agreed, delighted to see where Henry enjoyed spending his time- despite the locales being less than healthy or ideal. They staggered home (rather, Henry staggered while Joey wheeled like a New York driver) and crashed into Henry's bed. This time, Henry had picked Joey up before getting in himself. Though they were disheveled, drunken, and still wearing their day clothes, they giggled and whispered until night stole over their brains and they drifted into sleep.

Joey suddenly woke up to hair brushing over his face, tickling at his pale skin, thousands of tiny spider legs crawling across his face and jolting him out of a nightmare of just that.

Two moonlit squares were focused down at him, a completely blank expression behind the frames. Joey swallowed, noting that Henry's arms were on either side of his shoulders, boxing him in. There was something dreadfully intense about the silence between them, so quiet that Joey could hear his own heartbeat in his ears - and as the silence wore on, he could hear Henry's beating in sync with his own.

"Henry?" Joey asked, not wanting to break the spell of the moment. Henry's soft voice replied, "Joey."

Those blank television screens came closer, and closer, and Joey closed his eyes as they came too close, too blinding, and could not say anything if he wanted to- as Henry kissed him. Joey felt a lump rise in his throat, a whoop of pure happiness, his shaking hands raising and combing through Henry's tangled, uncared for mess of hair. He would care for him. He would be here for him. They would finally, finally be happy. One of Henry's hands came to Joey's collar- tugging him just a bit closer.

Henry pulled away after a long moment, still staring down at Joey.

"You're crying," he commented. Joey laughed, tears dripping down through his hair, and he whispered to him: "I've never been happier in my life."

Henry pulled him close again, laying down and shifting to pull Joey atop him, his hands roaming a body that he had irreversibly damaged. Joey clung to him like a lifeline, and each touch felt like it was healing him.

Joey woke up as Henry was getting up again. Henry gave him a fond smile, patting his shoulder. Joey tried to lean up for a kiss, but Henry pulled back to Joey's disappointment.

"I love you," Joey said, saying what he should have said years ago. Henry's eyes flicked to him, and he murmured, "I missed you."

"I missed you too. Every day."

"Let's go have breakfast, Joey."

"Okay."

Their day was largely spent lazing in each other's presence, talking and laughing, now with some hesitant, back and forth flirting mixed into their chatter. It had been there before, yes, but now it was far more prominent. Henry would throw in winks into his speech, while Joey would beam, whistle, and giggle. He felt like a young student again- enthusiastic, with a zest for life that had been missing from his for too long. After lunch they dressed fresh, planning to go out for a bit, see some greenery in the park. Joey carefully adjusted Henry's bowtie, Henry smiling.

Joey beamed, reaching to take Henry's hand. This time, Henry accepted the contact.

The overwhelming feelings in his whole body were nothing but pure happiness.

[theolivetree123]

Rev up your engines, it’s time to…

🏁 Race for the Cookie Cup! 🏁

(More below the cut)

🫐Event Summary🍒

You, Grim, Ace, and Deuce decide to visit a new arcade that recently opened up in the town not far from NRC. There, you meet up with Ruggie, Epel, Silver, and Idia, who have all taken interest in a specific game in the corner of the arcade. The game is called Sugar Rush! Since there's two arcade machines, Ace challenges Deuce to one round of the game, and whoever loses must pay for the other's lunch. Deuce unsurprisingly accepts, and they begin their match. Midway through their match, however, the game suddenly glitches! You and the gang all think the game is broken until a flash of light comes from the arcade machines. Next thing you know, all 8 of you are somehow inside of the racing game, Sugar Rush!

To escape this sweet nightmare, you must win the next grand prix and obtain the Cookie Cup! But, uh oh. Ace and Deuce are having a bit of a squabble. It seems like you guys are going to have to split into two separate teams!

For this grand prix, Deuce will be accompanied by Silver and Idia as...

Team Bluepuff!

And Ace will be accompanied by Ruggie and Epel as...

Team Redpop!

Which team will you choose?

🏁Rules🏁

Everyone is allowed to race! Whether it's your OCs, yuusonas, or, heck, even rope your favorite canon NRC/RSA student into this mess! Everyone is welcome to participate in the mess that Ace and Deuce started.

You can participate in this event by making custom cards, general fanart, fanfics, whatever! Just no NSFW, please. This is a PG racing game!

If you decide to make anything for this event, please tag me and use #🍪rftcc. I'd love to see what you make!

And finally, this event has no deadline, so feel free to participate whenever!

🏁Outfits and Carts🏁

Since you will be racing, make sure your outfit is fit for the job! Make sure your character has a jersey, gloves, and a sweet theme!

For your character's theme, make sure it is based off of some sort of candy or sweet treat! The character must also have a matching cart, as well (if you're drawing them with one, that is). Try to stay away from actual candy brands, though! We wouldn't want a lawsuit on our hands!

The characters listed in the summary have their own cards and outfits! I listed them below so you don't accidentally copy their theme.

SSR Deuce (Blueberry Pie)

SSR Ace (Cherry Pie)

SR Ruggie and Epel (Donuts and bubblegum)

SR/R Idia and Silver (Slushies and marshmallows)

Also! If you're making a card, you may use the blank cards below!

🏁Racers🏁

Team Bluepuff

🍋Yuya Florence by @cheerleaderman

🍪Dias Feathenfool by @beezonia

🍓Robyn Starling by @pinkskytwst

💝Reese Kingbit by @kickasscentral

Team Redpop

💍Ryuuni by @rini-rambles

🎂Narcissa Viperoné by @beezonia

🍍Saya Starling (ART) by @pinkskytwst made by @dilatory-replies

🧸Cerise Fanfare by @0kiwisalad0

🎄Humm by @xxoomiii

⚫️ Leon Lynch by @readsrandomstuff67

🏁Fanart🏁

A little comic from @mello-bee

Art of the crew by @spade-12

Ruggie doing donuts by @mirioho

Ruggie fanart by @cheshanoneko-draws

🏁Fanfics🏁

Bet on the Teleportation by @spadecentral

🏁I look forward to seeing what you create!🏁

[loveisanimaginarydagger3000]

The Babysitter (42)- Flour Fights

MILF Wanda Maximoff X Reader 18+

Summary: In need of money and a way to escape the problems at home, you get a job babysitting two lovely boys named Billy and Tommy Maximoff. What happens when you start to feel things you shouldn't for their mother? Will it bloom into love or leave you heartbroken?

A/N- I would just like to say that there will be some sensitive issues in this story such as alcoholism, homophobia, anxiety as well as more mature content such as smut so, if you continue to read this, please consider this warning.

The Babysitter Master list | General Master List

Chapter 42- W/c 5.8k

Flour Fights

Wiping the counter top down, you ensured that marble top was clean of the small amount of coffee a customer had spilt before turning around to continue your conversation with Peter and Gamora, a playful expression on both yours and Gamora’s face as you teased the brunette, his head shaking at your antics.

“I should report you both to the manager for bullying,” he grumbles in a joking manner as he expertly pours the milk into the drink to create a beautiful piece of art in the liquid, the way he effortlessly completes the task making you a little jealous as you had been trying to learn how to do latte art for a while and had failed miserably. “Oh wait, I am the manager,” his tone is laced with a hint of theatrics as he turned to his girlfriend before looking at you, raising his brow in faux warning. “Stop bullying your co-worker or I’ll put both of your shifts on rush hour,” Peter threatens with little conviction, knowing he wouldn’t be able to as all the shifts had been arranged specifically to fit around the last of the summer holidays, the man complaining less than an hour ago about how long it took and how he never wanted to plan shifts again. His words simply earnt a roll of Gamora’s eyes and a small smile from you at her reaction, the two of you trying your hardest not to tease him again when the bell at the front door rang, signalling a new customer.

At the sight of a familiar set of auburn locks and two very energetic boys, the corner of your lips lifted at the sight of them as Wanda’s eyes flickered around your place of work for a table, quickly spotting a nice booth to sit in before ushering the twins into it. A motherly look appeared on her face, the familiar sight endearing for you to see as her hands fixed Tommy’s hair as he sat down before caressing Billy’s shoulder in an affectionate way, the older woman murmuring something to them before making her way over, a mischievous smile on her face as her alluring green caught yours, heat instantly rising to your cheeks.

“I’ll get this one,” you murmur to Gamora as she approached the countertop to take Wanda’s order, her brow raising at you suspiciously at the pink tinting your face and that enamoured look in your eyes before letting you take the customer, moving further back to join Peter at the coffee machines, the two of them keeping their eyes on you as Drax, Rocket and Mantis returned from their break, preparing to serve the other customers entering the café.

“Hi, what can I get you?” You asked, putting on your ‘work’ voice for the older woman whilst trying your hardest to not smile at her like an idiot in love, your heart fluttering at the way her hands glide across the freshly cleaned countertop, fingers tapping indecisively as she looked at the boards with the menu on it.

“Can I get two small hot chocolates with whipped cream and extra marshmallows on them,” her tone shows how she is unable to hide her happiness as she ordered for the twins, the older woman smiling at you lovingly as she hadn’t seen you properly today due to how early your shift had started, part of her like a teenager in love as she felt almost giddy in your presence. It shocked her at how you could still cause so many feelings to bubble inside her, the way a simple look could ignite a warmth to wrap around her heart effortlessly and she adored every single minute of it, having always wanted to love someone like she loved you and be loved the way you passionately loved her.

Your smile grew even wider at her order for the twins, the emphasis on extra marshmallows not being missed by you as you knew how much they loved them on their drinks, your finger tapping on the screen to write down her order as you glance up at her, noticing the way her teeth subtly bite down on her lower lip to not grin at you. You blushed a little under her gaze as she met your eyes, her enticing green hypnotising you as you let the look linger, the sound of a coffee machine beeping snapping you back to reality as you waited for her to continue with the order.

“Can I also have…” she started, trailing off as she skim reads the rest of the menu, part of you already knowing what she was about to order as your finger hovered over the screen, ready to tap, “A flat white espresso.” You smiled to yourself as you entered in the item, oblivious to how Peter lingered nearby to see how you were doing with the customer, Gamora hiding near the coffee machine and eavesdropping too, your co-workers unaware that this was Wanda, having never actually met her before.

“Is there anything else?” You ask once you had logged everything you needed to, watching the way Wanda’s fingers tapped against the countertop, her smile tugging up in a mischievous manner as her gaze flickered up to meet yours, a hint of mirth in them at her next words.

“Is your number an option?” She teased with a charming smile, your eyes widening at her words before you went along with her joke, a small, shy laugh escaping you as you felt heat rise to your cheeks, her captivating smile and stare making you flustered.

“That depends, are you single or am I going to get in trouble?” Your tone signals your amusement as you murmur the words, letting your gaze switch between the pools of green and her plump lips, admiring her angelic features as you wait for her to respond.

“You won’t get into trouble, I won’t let you,” she rasps out, purposely letting her voice drop an octave and her accent seep into it, knowing you couldn’t resist the way her words gracefully fell from her lips when she did so, her smile widening at the way your pupils dilated noticeably, your mouth parting a little bit as she leaves you speechless for a moment until you can compose yourself.

“I’ll uh, bring your order over to you when it’s ready,” you stammer out in response, avoiding her gaze as you could tell she was humoured by how easily she could fluster you, an infectious laugh briefly escaping her as she chuckles at your adorable form, quickly paying for the drinks before putting you out of your misery and walking away.

You can’t help but watch as she walks away, the older woman seeming to know you were staring and looking over her shoulder at you, winking playfully before moving to sit next to Billy so she could continue to watch you work, smiling at the way your co workers quickly move over to you after your interaction.

“What are you doing?” Peter’s tone is slightly raised as confusion laces his voice whilst you turn around to face him, his wide eyes and tone puzzling you as your brows furrow, your hand stilling the way you were writing your number on the cup, his fingers slipping the item out of your hand. “You can’t just flirt with customers like that, what about Wanda?” It clicks in your mind when he mentions the other woman, a laugh escaping you as your gaze flickers between Gamora and Peter’s concerned gaze, neither of them wanting you to ruin what you had with your girlfriend as they had heard such amazing things.

“That is Wanda,” you say after a moment, unable to stop chuckling to yourself at their reactions, part of you grateful for their intervention as it just showed how much they cared about you. You watch entertained at the way their faces drop from worry to confusion, to disbelief and shock, Gamora’s gaze moving to where the twins and Wanda’s were sitting whilst Peter just looks at you, bewildered.

“How?” Is all that leaves his lips before Gamora’s hand smacks the back of his head, shooting him a warning look as he rubs the spot his girlfriend just hit, his cheeks turning a little red in embarrassment. It wasn’t that he didn’t think you weren’t beautiful or an amazing person because you were, everyone around you knew that you were, it was more the fact that Wanda looked like a goddess among people, something about her just making her all the more radiant. “I mean, how… come we have never met Wanda?” He sheepishly mutters out, grimacing himself at how poor his recovery of the situation was, your brow raised at him as Mantis overhears the conversation, excitement swirling in her eyes at the mention of the older woman, your friend eager to meet her.

“Wanda’s here? Where is she?” Her voice conveys her giddiness as you smile at her reaction, the two of you growing closer over the last couple weeks as your shifts were on at the same time, the black haired woman taking an interest in your love life as she could tell how smitten you were. Before you could respond, Rocket spoke up, the casual man leaning against the countertop on his phone, clearly pretending as though he was busy with work stuff, his eyes never leaving the screen.

“Who’s Wanda? Does she need her order taken over?” His voice lacked any real conviction as to find out who she was, simply acting as though he was contributing to team as he messaged Lyla on his phone, your head shaking as you made the two small hot chocolates, making sure to swirl the whipped cream perfectly and add as many marshmallows as you were allowed to.

“Why are we talking about Wanda again?” Drax asks from your side, making you jump a little as you hadn’t realised he was standing there, his body so still it was as though he was invisible.

“She’s here,” Mantis emphatically answered him, the man seeming to be just as disinterested as Rocket as he was only interested in relationships and love when it meant he could tease someone, his eyes following to where Mantis was looking before flickering his gaze back to you, a laugh escaping him.

“Yeah right,” he chuckled out, a look of shock forming on your face at his dismissal that it was Wanda, your features pulling into a look of offence as he smiled in disbelief at you, a glint of determination appearing in your eyes as you wanted to wipe that smug smile off his face.

“I’ll prove it,” you muttered out to the man, his smile widening as he refused to believe you, his arms crossing over his chest nonchalantly as he leaned against the countertop, watching you in amusement as you carried over the order to the booth they were sitting at, looking at Wanda with a shy but mischievous look before turning your head to make sure your co workers were watching, in particular Drax.

“Two hot chocolates and a flat white,” you say with a polite voice, the slight change to your tone amusing the twins as they mimic your voice to each other, making you playfully stick your tongue out at them for their teasing you as Wanda shakes her head at your antics, biting down on her lower lip as she admires you in your work uniform as you hand the twins their drinks, marshmallows overspilling from the cups. Your gaze flickers over to her appreciative stare when the twins become distracted by the sugary treat, the older woman loving the way your tied apron exaggerates your curves as she eventually lifts her gaze to your face, an enamoured look evident in her eyes as she can’t stop thinking about how adorable you look right now, the slightly shy smile on your face as her green has your heart pounding in your chest, warmth wrapping cosily around it.

Smiling a little to yourself, your tear your eyes away from hers to break the lingering gaze to focus on her drink sitting on the tray in your hands, moving to pass her the drink when her fingers brush yours on purpose, the older woman innocently smirking up at you as steals the drink from you, revelling in the way you seem to blush a little in embarrassment at the effect she has on you.

“Thank you,” she murmurs out whilst taking a sip of the drink, making sure to keep eye contact with you to further torment you, her lips tugging up into a smile around the mug as you linger nearby, trying to figure out how to prove to Drax you were with her without making it obvious to Wanda that you wanted a kiss.

“Is there any chance my service deserves a tip?” You ask with a hint of cheek seeping into your words as you offer her a charming smile, her brow raising at your words as you still play along with the joke from earlier, excitement appearing on her features.

“What did you have in mind?” She murmurs out, letting her gaze drift over to the counter where your friends were not so discreetly watching the interaction, the older woman trying her hardest to not roll her eyes as she could tell you had made some sort of bet at the way they were so interested in what was happening, that look in your eyes only Wanda could notice also giving it away as she could easily read your body language.

“Something that might get me in...trouble,” you whisper out, Wanda letting out a small chuckle before shaking her head lightly at your actions, her hand moving to your collarbone, sliding against the fabric of your shirt teasingly before grabbing the collar of your button up blouse, pulling you down to meet her lips.

The kiss was tender and loving to keep it appropriate for the setting, the two of you instantly smiling into it when you hear a contrast of reactions, the twins as usual pretending to be grossed out by the action whilst a small, elated noise could be heard from where Mantis was, her body buzzing with joy as she just loved seeing people happy, her smile practically reaching her ears at the way you shyly pulled back from the kiss.

You couldn’t stop the way love and adoration swarmed through you when Wanda softly waved towards your co-workers before sitting back in her seat, relaxing with her drink in her hand as you simply stood there, admiring the woman you loved.

“You might want to stop staring Detka,” she teases after a moment, “You’ve still got twenty minutes of your shift left,” she gently reminds, prompting you to pick up the forgotten tray from the table and return back to work after telling her you would meet her back here when you had finished your shift.

The prominent blush on your cheeks was engraved there as Peter and Gamora offer you suggestive looks as you returned to the counter, Drax’s arms dropping as he simply stood there with his mouth parted, somehow lost for words, not a single teasing remark lingering on his tongue which seemed to be a first.

“You should have put money on it,” Rocket teased as he patted Drax’s shoulder, joking with the man who still remained frozen and confused as to what had happened, your head shaking at the other man before letting your gaze inevitably drift back over to the table where she was, catching her curious stare. You watched intently as she placed her drink down and lifted her hand, the smile growing on your face fading when she motioned for you to turn around and stop staring at her, your eyes rolling theatrically at her before you did as she said, returning to cleaning the machines as the last twenty minutes of your shift dragged on.

***

Untying your hair, a deep sigh left your lips at the relief of returning home, the promise of having another family night exciting you as it was a time to unwind and simply enjoy being with the twins and Wanda, the bag of ingredients in Wanda’s hands intriguing you as she hadn’t told you what her and the twins had planned for tonight.

You made a beeline for the kitchen as that was where she had wandered to, walking past the framed photo of her on the ride at Asgard with a smug smile before your eyes searched for her auburn hair as you leaned against the doorframe, taking a moment to observe her. Her fingers rummaged through the plastic bag for various items as she stayed oblivious to your presence, her back to you as you continued to watch her, unable to stop the love coursing through your veins at the domestic sight of her expertly and swiftly moving around the kitchen, her green eventually catching your figure at the door.

The corner of your lips instinctively  lifted at the simple look before you pushed yourself off the frame to slowly walk over to her, your body tired after your long shift at the café, wanting to feel the comfort of her body against yours as you have been deprived of her touch for far too long in your opinion. You practically melted into her body as your arms snaked around her middle, your head resting against her shoulder as you placed a kiss to the fabric of her jumper, expressing your love to her silently.

The two of you adored the fact you could easily show your care and affection for each other without having to explicitly say ‘I love you’, your actions, looks, and kindness enough for one another. You purposely let your hands squeeze her body gently, encouraging her to lean back further into your embrace, knowing she cherished being hugged from behind and listened out for the satisfied sigh that would spill from her lips when you would do so.

You smiled against her sweater when you heard the familiar sound, the older woman stilling in your arms as she relaxed, a soft, tender expression gracing her features as you both savoured the moment before the twins would eventually come running downstairs, ready to start the fun family night.

“Can I have another kiss or is that going to get me in trouble with your girlfriend?” you tease, breaking the brief silence, your words slightly muffled by her shoulder as you mumbled against her, the corner of her lips tugging up at your playfulness whilst her head shook lightly before she turned around in your arms, mirth clear in her eyes.

“I don’t know, that might get you into trouble,” she rasps out whilst you move one of your hands to tuck the stray strand of her hair behind her ear, a tenderness wrapping around you both comfortably as you joke with each other.

“That’s a shame, it was such a good kiss,” you murmur out, tilting your head so that your lips ghosted hers, the feeling of her lips briefly brushing yours intoxicating, the thought of pressing them together consuming your mind and sending a heat throughout your body.

“Yeah?” she hums out, sliding her hands further around your waist, the pads of her fingers toying with the hem of your shirt and grazing your warm skin. “Maybe one more wouldn’t hurt after all,” she husks out with a smirk, lowering her head at a tantalising pace as you await the delicate feeling of her plump lips slotting over yours, your body craving the feeling again as you wait what feels like an eternity before her lips finally claim yours.

Much to your dismay though, the sound of footsteps interrupts the kiss, breaking off the affectionate moment far sooner than you wanted, a small groan leaving you as you sink into her embrace, your face hiding at the crook of her neck, basking in the warmth and safety it provided for a moment.

“You’re such a tease,” you mumble against her skin, earning a gentle chuckle as her fingers run up and down your back, the twins storming into the room after having cleaned their rooms, knowing they had to finish that chore off before the fun could begin.

“You’re the one who started it,” she whispers tauntingly before pressing a kiss to the top of your head, sliding her body away from yours to check their rooms were done properly before starting the activities planned for tonight, your dumbfounded figure left to watch her walk away, still thinking of the feeling of her lips.

***

A baking competition.

That’s what family night was for this evening, a look of shock, confusion and excitement appearing on your features as it was everyone versus everyone on who could make the best cookies, the thought of the twins trying to make their own worrying you a little bit as their version of baking cookies meant eating as many chocolate chips as possible before you would notice, too busy doing the actual work involved.

“Are we sure we don’t want to have teams?” you ask once more as you sit on the chair at the kitchen island, your head leaning against your palm as you stare at Wanda who was sorting out all the ingredients into an efficient system, her face pulling a look that suggested she wanted to agree with you, Tommy speaking up instead.

“No teams!” he exclaims, clearly excited about doing it all himself as Billy nodded along with him, the twins adamant that they could make them themselves, assuming it was much easier than it was. “Unless you want to team up with Mom because you’re scared you’re going to lose,” he teases, making your jaw drop, Wanda failing the stifle her laugh in time as your bewildered expression meets her humoured one, her smile soft as she bites down on her lip to stop herself giggling at her son’s words.

“I make good cookies,” you mutter in response, thinking about all the times you and the twins had made various types of cookies and the way they’d absolutely devour them, your mind then soon replaying the way they’d run across the house to get their mothers, the older woman’s skills in the kitchen superior to yours.

“Not as good as mine though,” Wanda whispers as she moves around to stand behind you, pressing a chaste kiss to your temple to help comfort you at the fact your abilities had been undermined, her head leaning against yours as your hand reached out for hers, letting your thumb brush over the back of her hand as the twins decided on the rules and how the winner would be decided before you could start.

Eventually, the four of you were ready to start measuring out everything needed to make the signature Maximoff family recipe of chocolate chip cookies, Billy fighting with the bag of flour you and him were going to share whilst Wanda effortlessly opened hers and Tommy’s, a look of sympathy growing on your face as he struggled. He wanted to remain independent during the entire baking process so you offered him a reassuring smile as you could understand how frustrating it was to open packets like that, something deep inside you hating bags of flour after the many times they had split open on you. The packaging was just always so impractical, white powder inevitably getting everywhere as soon as you tore it open, your gaze watching as he put a little more force into trying to tear it open, a grimace forming on your face as you could predict what was about to happen.

“Let me try-” your words were cut off by the bag tearing open vigorously, flour puffing out of the bag and all over the countertop as well as yours and Billy’s hands, a cloud of it filling the air around you two as Wanda sighed, her smile still present on her face though.

After a sheepish look in the older woman’s direction, you turned your gaze back to the pile of flour now on the marble top, your hand coming up to your forehead as you try to figure out the best way to deal with the situation, not realising the amount of flour coating your hand.

A humoured expression grew on everyone else's face as you managed to have a streak of flour across your head, the twins trying their hardest to not laugh and give it away, wanting you to continue looking silly, whilst Wanda seemed to pause, a nostalgic look in her eyes.

Her mind recalled the memory of when she came home from work to see you baking with the twins whilst you were babysitting them, the way warmth spread throughout her at the adorable sight of you with a similar streak of flour on your face. She remembered fondly the way you seemed to grow flustered as she gently wiped the mark away, her heart fluttering in her chest as she realised how far the two of you have come, how you have managed to change her life for the better.

“What?” you chuckle out as you notice her staring at you with love overflowing from her enchanting green, Billy helping get the remainder of the flour into a bowl to weigh it out.

“I love you,” she whispers, your brows furrowing a little bit at the emotion underlying the words, the concern quickly dissipating as she comes closer to you, her fingers gently holding your chin like she did that day, tilting your head up as she grabbed a cloth to wipe the flour away, a hint of deja vu flowing through you both. “But sometimes I think you’re just as messy as the twins,” she mutters playfully, a mischievous glint appearing in your eyes at her words as she loses herself in admiring you, unaware of how your hand was moving near the table.

“I’m not messy” you whisper innocently whilst moving your hand up to cup her cheek, her face morphing into shock at the feeling of flour being smeared against her skin, an infectious laugh escaping you and the twins as they watch the scenes unfold, revenge swirling in the older woman’s eyes.

Before you know it, the kitchen turns into a mini warzone, flour flying everywhere as you all try to cover each other in it, the food fight amusing to everyone as laughter bounced off all the walls, a small scream leaving Tommy as you wrap your arm around his body, sprinkling flour all over him and wiping a streak on his cheek to mimic the face paintings warriors have. To torment the boy even more, you tickled his side, watching as he tries to squirm his way out of your grip, his giggles echoing around the room as Billy dodges his mother’s flour attacks, the woman giving up chasing after one of her sons as he was too quick, deciding to save her other one instead.

A squeal practically leaves you when Wanda steals you away, pulling you into her body so that her front is flush against your back, your body trying to fight her strong grip but failing, laughter constantly spilling from your lips as you feel the remainder of the flour being wiped across your face. Her fingers friskily remained on your face, tormenting you further as you could hear her chuckling behind you, your hand trying to stop her from drawing random shapes of flour on your forehead as you gripped her forearm, amused at the way her sleeve had a massive streak of white across it.

The core memory engraved itself into all of your minds, the sheer joy and happiness radiating through you all as Wanda eventually let her head rest at the crook of your neck, inhaling the scent of your sweet perfume as your giggles eventually died down, your ragged breaths filling the room. The four of you panted after the intense battle, Wanda’s arm unwrapping from around your middle, freeing you of her grasp so you could turn around to send her a mini glare, the expression never coming onto your face as you were too busy grinning at her, an avalanche of affection and warmth enveloping you at the sight of her. Flour sat on the edge of her nose almost comically, a couple light dusts also tainting the pink visible on her cheeks whilst your eyes travelled up to look at her hair, chuckling in amusement at the massive white streak in her auburn locks.

A teasing comment about her age was on the tip of your tongue, the older woman seeming to sense where your thoughts were heading as she tilted her head almost warningly, daring you to make the joke as you smirked up at her, your composure crumbling a little at the hint of dominance swirling in her eyes. Deciding it would be better to not be a brat, you stayed silent instead, a triumphant look flashing on her features before she let her gaze flicker away from you to around the room, taking in the mess you had all managed to create, her eyes widening a little bit at how far the four of you had gone.

“I’m not even sure we’ll have enough flour to make cookies anymore,” she said sceptically as she checked the remains of a bags of flour, noticing how there was only just about two cups left in one of them and maybe just under one cup in the other bag , the twin’s faces almost turning as white as the flour at the idea of not having any cookies, the two of them running to check the bag their mother was looking at before checking the bowls that previously had measured out flour in them.

You watched curiously as they tried to pile together as much of the leftover flour as possible in hopes there'd be enough, your head shaking softly as you decided to wipe your face, cleaning yourself up whilst the boys remained running about with the ingredient in their hair, seeming to make the mess worse as they kept moving about. Wanda copied you and started trying to clean herself up, observing the twins as you were before speaking up, deciding she didn’t want to clean any more mess than she had to, part of her wishing she had the powers Billy had given her in his drawings so she could just magic all the mess away.

“How about this,” she starts off, gaining everyone’s attention. “You two can go and have a shower now, making sure to get rid of all the flour in your hair,” she said, making a point as she ruffled Tommy’s hair, showing how white his locks had turned, “And when you come down there might be some cookies nearly ready to eat." Bright smiles stretched across their lips as they nodded emphatically to agree with their mother’s plan, the two of them wiping as much of the mess in their hair off in the kitchen before being allowed to sprint up stairs to shower, your brow raising as her gaze then met yours, an innocent smile growing on her lips which could only mean one thing- she was about to torture you.

“And what am I supposed to do?” you ask in a hum, leaning against the countertop in front of her after she had just measured the flour out, a small amount still left in the bag behind your body that you were oblivious to. At the suggestive tone to your voice, her hands move to rest on the marble behind you, bracing her body above yours as she trapped you against the island, her head lowering a little bit, encouraging you to chase her teasing and alluring lips. 

Just as you think she’s about to kiss you on the lips, your eyes fluttering shut, she moves slightly behind you, the action going unnoticed as her lips pressed against the corner of your mouth, driving you insane with the thought of her as warmth wraps around your heart and also travels down your body towards you core, the feeling of her smirking against your lips clouding your mind. 

“You can help clean,” she murmurs in a seductive voice, a groan leaving you at her addictive tone and her words, the false hope annoying but equally amusing as she pulls back to see your eyes gradually opening, your darkened pupils showing how excited her actions had made you.

“Have I ever told you how cruel you are?” you grumble whilst stealing a quick kiss from her, the older woman letting you after her tease, her fingers wrapping around something behind you, her right arm moving slightly to your side as you focus on pouting at her, trying to get her to feel sorry for you and kiss you again and again until you couldn’t remember why you were pretending to be so annoyed. You thought it was working at the way her head lowered once more, your tongue subconsciously swiping across your lips to wet them, ready to lose yourself to the arousal steadily corrupting your thoughts. 

“Just a few times,” she chuckles out, smirking at you in a mischievous way as you search her green, confused as to why her smile seemed to grow that little bit wider, your brows furrowing until your felt flour being poured over your head, your vision being covered by the powder spilling down your face. You simply stood still as the bag emptied above your head, unable to stop a shocked but also impressed smile tugging at your lips, your laughter light and contagious as Wanda couldn't help but laugh along with you as you fell for her plan. Shaking your head vigorously, your hands shot out to hold onto her waist to keep her close, keeping her in the firing line as the two of you acted like fools in love for the rest of the night.

The two of you were only just about able to make the cookies and clean the mountain of mess in time for the twins, care and adoration underlying all you actions as the rest of the night breezed by, the happiness of spending the night together as a family consuming you entirely.