#PLEASE JUST ONE CHANCE KEVIN DAY

[attineilde]

KEVIN DAY THE THINGS I WOULD DO FOR YOU TO GIVE ME JUST ONE CHANCE

[sp0o0kylights]

Indie horror filmmaker Eddie Munson, high off his first big (underground but notable) success, knows the movers and shakers of the film world have their eyes on him. 

They're just waiting to see if he was a one hit wonder before they open all the doors he's been trying to kick down. 

His next upcoming film is his chance, his shot at finally making it. Of being like Rob Zombie and the other creators he looks up to that masterfully blended metal and horror. 

This is his golden ticket. 

The project starts off smooth. His last success has greased the wheels, and things fall into place faster than ever before. 

He's got the best idea for this insane haunted house story, a true "mazes in mazes" type of deal with a queer twist. A real look at how a place can haunt a person just as easily as a ghost can.

 Everything's going swimmingly--until one of his leads drops out the day they're due to start shooting.

No call no show's, and later, Eddie will find out the guy got a last second call back to be a contestant on one of those Love Island bullshit romance gigs (and laugh his ass off when the main love interest takes one look at Billy Hargrove and goes on a five minute rant about ugly mullets on national television) but right now? 

He's fucked. 

He's called in every favor he has for this film. Maxed out every credit card he owns, tapped every contact, got on his hands and knees and begged his rising star journalist best bud to help him market it. (Which Nancy agreed too, for way less cash than she should have.) 

 Eddie can't get anyone on the phone, much less find a replacement actor and the amazing place they rented, that is so dark and wonderfully eerie, is booked out the rest of the year as an AirBnB. 

If he doesn't film now, he loses it all.

Cue the other lead, unknown theater actor Steve Harrington, watching his hair pulling, tire kicking, 'cursing and hopping while holding a toe' mental breakdown and asks why Eddie himself doesn't act in it. 

"Just go full Kevin Smith man. Act and direct." He says, with an easy grin. 

Jeff, Eddie's tried and true videographer, trades glances with Gareth and Grant (Eddie's long used special effects and makeup team, who double for about twelve other jobs because they're also his best friends and they're all in this together, make or break.)

"We don't really have a lot of other options." Gareth hedges. "You're already using me and Grant as background characters." 

Eddie, hands fluttering around his face as though trying to wave away this entire situation, squeezes his eyes shut and lets out a pained hiss. 

"Fine, fine!" He announces with the air of a man running towards a fire. "Fuck it, this is our one shot and so help me I will be shooting it!" 

Steve politely hides a laugh with a cough. 

"Chuckle all you want big boy, I'm going to tragically romance you so hard people will forget both of our characters actually live." Eddie snarls.

Steve, the handsome bastard, just winks.  "Looking forward to it." 

Eddie blushes, but hides it with a surge of frantic energy, conveyed by lots of yelling and moving and getting the ball rolling. 

Two days later, Steve would give the performance of a lifetime down on his knees, covered in a literal pound of fake gore, booty shorts and nothing else as he sobbed about how a lover could become a home. His hands clawed at Eddie's jeans before resting a tear stained face on a slim leg as he bent his body towards Eddie like it hurt to be away from him. 

Eddie would later receive equal praise in his own acting during the scene, with the world and every reporter in it asking how he conveyed an otherworldly panic so beautifully throughout Steve's performance. What was he thinking, to evoke those expressions on his face? 

The way his own pale hand, unmarred by blood and acting as a metaphor for the plot, would come to stroke Steve's cheeks.

Eventually he'd come up with a smooth polished answer that cheekily pleased his audience, but nothing would ever come close to the truth. 

("Eddie I've known you since grade school." Jeff said that night, a scant few hours after they'd wrapped. "You can act man, but not like that." 

Eddie made a wild "shut up" gesture, looking frantically over his shoulder before admitting; "You saw how close his face was to the prince of darkness!? I was seconds away from popping a boner next to his lips, in front of the 4K camera!” 

Eddie bounced into Jeff’s face so he could hiss: “He fucking had his chin on my thigh, Jeff, and I am only a man. A mere mortal!" 

"So we're gonna unpack all of that later." Jeff said finally, when he'd managed to get his mouth working and Eddie back out of his personal space. "But dude, we've talked about you calling your dick the prince of darkness." 

Eddie flipped him off.) 

One year later and critics named Corroded the best horror film of the year, praising the camera work, practical effects, and how there wasn't a soul alive who was surprised to hear Eddie and Steve were dating after their explosive on screen chemistry.

No one ever quite understood the prince of darkness jokes or why Steve mentioning it made Eddie blush, but that was a secret to find out later. 

Today on WIP’s I have no intention of writing, indie horror movie AU!

[trippinsorrows]

looking through your eyes + thirteen

authors note: welp. the gala is finally here, friends! i hope you enjoy. well, the enjoyable parts.

ya'll remember that promo where kevin and sami tried to jump roman and he was furious, throwing shit out the ring, yelling at solo to position sami for the spear? that's how angry our collective favorite grump gets in this one...

if any cw/tw’s are missed, please let me know, and i will add them!

cw/tw: violence against women, scene of torture, fighting violence, language, angst, fluff, livid roman, and discussion regarding family loss.

song inspo: ‘looking through your eyes’ by leann rimes

masterlist

words: 11k

“Guys, is this really necessary?”

Truth be told, Solana already knows how both of her friends are going to respond. Bayley, however, is the one who briefly rips her focus from finding an x-large size in the top to the matching bottoms she’s picked out for Solana.

“It absolutely is necessary.” She takes a second to gesture to Solana’s outfit for the day. “You’ve come so far in so many ways, including not hiding your body as much, so we have to keep that going.”

“Exactly,” Naomi chimes as she reaches yet another dress to Solana, adding it to the pile of clothes she already has stacked on her arm. “Besides, who doesn’t love shopping with other people’s money?”

Other people would be Roman. Despite her horror at the totals every time Bayley and Naomi sucker her into these outrageous shopping trips, her husband never seems to bat an eye. It’s not unsurprising. She knows he’s filthy rich. But still, just the thought of spending so much money on clothes is a struggle.

And as Bayley adds the two piece suit to her arm, Solana starts to notice there’s a theme in the items they’re picking for her. A lot of bathing suits. Sun dresses. Shorts and thin sleeved tops. All appropriate for summer, of course. But, something else. 

Like a trip.

Curious, Solana suddenly asks, “why are we getting so many vacation type outfits?”

Naomi looks at her with the perfect confused expression. “What?” She laughs, picking up a bright orange top with a low neckline. “Girl, it’s summer. These are summer clothes.”

“But all these bathing suits—”

“Because we finally got you to embrace a two-piece, so now we need to make sure you have plenty of em’ whenever you and Roman decide to go for a swim.” Her wink makes Solana look away to hide her blush. She doesn’t regret opening up about trying to eventually consummate her marriage, but the way Naomi and Bayley never waste a chance to crack an innuendo can be….a lot at times.

“I’m gonna go bring these up front.” Solana gestures to the heavy stack of clothes that she’s holding. The second, or maybe third, stack they’ve accumulated for her. There’s always a check-in regarding if Solana likes it or not, which she appreciates. Even if they’ve become exceptionally good at distinguishing whether she doesn’t like something because it’s just not her style or whether she doesn’t like it because of insecurity. And when it’s the second one, they never hesitate to invoke their veto powers, instructing the cashier to ring it up.

Solana finds the sales girl from earlier up at the register, messing around on her phone as the line is non-existent. Her emerald green eyes dart up from the screen and an almost crooked smile falls on her young looking face. Solana would guess she’s either in her late teens or early twenties. 

“Got more for me?”

Solana giggles. “Just a little.” 

The girl also laughs, accepting the new pile and adding it with the others. She turns back around with a bit of skeptical look. “Hey, uh, can I ask you something?”

Curious, Solana nods. “Sure.”

She leans over the counter, red hair sprinkling past her freckled shoulders. “How did you meet your husband?” Eyes widening a bit, Solana’s surprise at the question must show. “I’ve seen you come in here a couple times now over the past few months, and every time you spend more than what my parents probably make in a month combined. And your ring is so beautiful. I guess I’m just kind of wondering how I can get lucky too. Cause your husband clearly loves you a lot to spoil you so much.”

Love…..

Not until this very moment has Solana ever thought about Roman and the word love in the same sentence. Hell, in the same universe. 

He’s….he’s done so much for her. Changed her life, for the better, in almost every way. And she’s gathered that he must care for her to some extent. Why else would he do the things he’s done? But love….that’s such a strong word.

Too strong.

Not to mention, he’d made clear to her the first time he came to visit her at her job that he could never love her. He was very honest about that, and in a weird way, she appreciated it.

But…..but he also said that she was a business arrangement, and nothing about the way he treats her feels like a business obligation.

So…..

It’s such a big thing, a big thing she’s not sure she wants to tackle in public, let alone while standing in front of a complete stranger. 

“He’s really great.” That’s the answer nonanswer that she settles on. “I just….I got really lucky with him.” Because she did. God knows she did.

“Fair,” the girl laughs. “Well, if he has any younger brothers who are kind and generous like him, I’m single.”

Solana smiles a bit when her attention lands on the word brothers. Siblings. Family. 

It takes her back to a few months earlier, the night he rushed off because of conflict with this Cody Rhodes person. The night he shared with her he also lost his mother at the age of ten.

But…..but there was more.

Brief glimpses, flashbacks almost of a different night. Her body pressed against his. His strong arms around her. Comforting her almost.

“....all of my siblings….”

“.....only one…..”

“....alone….”

And though she can’t make out everything, can’t remember verbatim what he’d shared with her that evening. there’s enough bits and pieces that she’s able to string together a coherent, heartbreaking realization. 

It wasn’t just Roman’s mom he lost that night.

He lost his entire family.

He was the only one who made it out alive. 

There’s a crushing, cumbersome weight Solana feels in the back of her throat as well as the pit of her stomach. She knows better than most how devastating the loss of family can be, but to lose your entire immediate family in one night. As a child?

That’s a pain she can’t even imagine.

Roman makes a lot more sense now, his coldness, the constant aloof disposition. The way he always has his guard up. Beyond just his title as Tribal Chief. How can one not lose trust in most and all things with a loss like that?

How can one love after a loss like that?

Realizing her epiphany is unfolding behind the sales girl, Solana manages to murmur out a, “I’ll keep that in mind” before excusing herself. She just needs some space. Needs some—

“Solana?”

The woman in question is close to the entrance of the story when a voice, both new and familiar, calls her name, forcing her to turn around. And it’s when she does so that Solana realizes why it’s familiar.

“Dom?”

It’s been years since she’s seen him, and he looks both the same yet different. Facial hair that seems uneven and unconnected with a hairstyle to match, bangs almost entirely obscuring his bushy eyebrows. He’s dressed in all black, clothes draped over his still slim build. Once upon a time, she would grow nervous around him, insecure of herself in comparison to someone she thought was so much more attractive than he actually was. Now though, she just wants to pretend this unexpected encounter never happened.

“What are you—”

“Did you get bigger?”

And there it goes. One simple question asked with almost a hint of a mocking smile, Solana is briefly reverted back to those days of deep rooted insecurity. Where she’d hold her stomach in around him and always only order salad the few times he took her out.

For a second, she’s tempted to cross her arms, suddenly regretting the top that doesn’t entirely connect with her high waisted shorts, exposing a strip of skin. 

“Damn. I really thought you would have gotten yourself together by now.” He scoffs, crossing his arms as he tilts his head. “You still not putting out? Cause your tits are actually not that—”

“Shut up.”

Solana isn’t sure who’s more surprised by her interruption. Him or her. Perhaps him, because his smile is dropped, replaced with an almost scowl.

“What the hell did you say to me, mami?”

But instead of cowering, instead of her anxiety growing at him, a man, moving closer to her. Trying to intimidate her. Solana doesn’t back down.

She doesn’t back down because she’s not scared. 

Chin lifted, she keeps her voice firm and unwavering. “You don’t get to talk about me anymore. Not my weight. Not my body. None of it.” Seeing the shock in his eyes at her actually standing up for herself, not allowing him to talk down on her like he always would, makes Solana’s assertiveness that much more fulfilling. “Now leave me alone.”

She turns to walk away when she hears footsteps behind her. “Where do you think—”

Call it the result of her training or the fact that she’s still very much in her feelings and head about her heartbreaking realization regarding Roman, Solana hasn’t a clue just what leads her to spin around and connect her fist directly with Dom’s nose. However, as soon as she does it, sees him stumbling back into a rack, she slaps her hands over her mouth.

“Oh my….” But instead of apologizing, instead of feeling terrible for hitting another human being, she finds herself almost laughing. A shocked, amused smile hidden underneath her palms. Her first is hurting a bit, but that sting is dulled by the satisfaction of his dumbfounded facial expression.

It’s a bit short lived though as he straightens up and starts to stalk toward her. “What the hell? You crazy puta—”

“What the fuck did you just call her?”

Solana turns to see Bayley and Naomi. It’s hard to distinguish who looks more pissed. Who looks more ready to commit murder.

Naomi steps forward. “I know you did not just call her a bitch.” She turns to Bayley. “That’s what puta means in Spanish, right?”

“It sure does.” Bayley answers, coming to stand beside Solana. Protectively. “He called her a crazy bitch at that.” She scoffs, dressing him up and down. “Everyone knows you’re an idiot, Dom, but I didn’t think you were that stupid. Who the hell do you think you are talking to her like that?”

“He’s my ex.” Solana answers, partially unsure why she would let slip a piece of information that could only make the situation worse.

Naomi’s mouth drops open, one thumb gesturing to him. “Dirty Dumbass Dom is your ex?” Her eyes widen even more. “The one who said—oh hell no, Solana. We’re kicking his ass.”

Bayley lifts her hand, effectively stopping Naomi as she moves forward, no doubt ready to lay into him. Head tilted to the side, she smiles. “No….I have a much better idea.” Solana is understandably confused as Bayley tells Naomi, “I still have my stuff in my trunk.” 

Naomi’s eyes light up. “Oh, this just got so much better.” She turns towards the sales associate who’s been watching everything unfold from a distance like it was a TikTok storytime. “Hold the items, please. We’ll be back in a little bit.” 

Solana turns around to see the girl just give a thumbs up and shrug. “Do what you gotta do.”

Dom groaning in pain is what makes Solana turn her attention back to him, only to see him doubled over, holding his crotch as Naomi hits him in his back and starts guiding him out the store. “Get walking. Now.”

“I’m not going any—-” He cries out once again when Bayley kicks him in his face. 

“Shut your bitch ass up!” She curses in Spanish, motioning for Solana to follow them. “Come on, girl.”

Confused but following suit, Solana asks, “what are we doing?”

Naomi answers with intentional vagueness. “Having a lil’ fun.”

Something tells Solana they have different definitions of fun. 

But she remains silent as her two friends quite literally drag Dom out of the store, through the rest of the stores until they reach the parking lot. She’s again surprised when they take him over to Bayley’s car. She unlocks it and opens the trunk, pulling out a black bag that she hands to Solana. Solana starts to peek inside when something else catches her attention. 

Bats. 

Metal bats. 

She has two. One of which she reaches to Solana.

“I—just what are we doing?”

Bayley’s smile is nothing but mischievous. “Having some fun.”

Naomi suddenly pulls out a knife and presses it to his throat. “Take us to your car. Now.” 

Dom is quieter than she’s ever known him to be as he follows Naomi’s directive, leading them to his fancy pickup truck that Solana, even with her limited knowledge about cars, can tell is worth a pretty penny. 

They make him unlock it to ensure it's actually his truck before Bayley starts to circle it. She nods, as if impressed. “Nice. Can tell you’ve put a bunch of upgrades in.” Solana’s mouth drops open as Bayley takes her key and slides it along the truck as she walks. “Might need a paint job though.”

“What the hell! You—” He’s silenced by Naomi kicking him in his back, forcing him to the ground, knife still pressed against his throat. “You’re all fucking crazy!”

That only makes Bayley smile as she directs Solana to lay the bag on the ground, bending over and pulling out a portable bluetooth speaker. It’s only when seeing the glitter, paint, and glue that Solana starts to put two and two together.

“Are we—”

“Uh huh.”

She gasps. “But, we can’t—-we…..” And suddenly, she’s trailing off, thoughts of all of the cruel, unkind things Dom would say to her, the way he would put her down, fat shame her, bringing her to tears. The memories help her tune to change a bit. “C—can we?” 

Bayley stands up and places a hand on her shoulder. “Solana…..you are Solana fucking Reigns. Wife of Roman Reigns, the Tribal Chief, the Head of the Table.” Out of the corner of her eye, Solana can see Dom’s eyes go wide as saucers. He clearly wasn’t aware of this. Of her marriage. Of just who she calls husband these days. “You can do whatever the fuck you want.”

Bayley’s hype is effective as she pulls out her phone, connecting it to the Bluetooth speaker. A small smile falls on Solana’s face as she hears the familiar and oh-so fitting song. 

Right now,

He's probably slow dancing with a bleach blonde tramp

And she's probably getting frisky

Right now,

He's probably buying her some fruity little drink

'Cause she can't shoot whiskey

Bayley gestures for Solana to move closer to the truck. “Your ex. First hit is yours.”

“Solana, wait, please. I—I didn’t know you were with him.” Dom’s pleading and begging is desperate and embarrassing. He looks like he’s on the verge of tears. “I’m—I’m sorry.”

Sorry.

For some reason, that word has never made her feel so irritated. 

“No, you’re not.” And without a second of hesitation, she takes the bat and swings it against his passenger window, effectively shattering it. On the side, Bayley and Naomi cheer her on, Solana not even needing encouragement as she moves around to the other side, doing the same to the driver’s window.

Bayley howls out, “let’s fuckin’go!” She takes the bat and brings it against the rest of the truck, creating dents, scratches, and anything else that can desecrate what she’s sure makes up for other deficits. 

Solana just took out the mirror on the passenger side when she hears Naomi aggressively yell at him not to ‘fucking move.” And Dom doesn’t, just watches helplessly as she moves over to the bag, pulling out the glue and glitter. She smirks in his direction, lifting the materials of destruction. “Time to glow, bitch.”

Solana laughs as Naomi rips open the door and starts pouring the deadly combination of glue and glitter all over the interior. 

I dug my key into the side of his pretty

little suped up four wheel drive

Carved my name into his leather seats

Took a Louisville slugger to both headlights

Slashed a hole in all four tires

Maybe next time he'll think before he cheats

The ironic and iconic lyrics serve as a manual and guiding force for Solana as she catches the tossed keys from Bayley who’s on the hood of the truck going HAM on the roof with the metal bat. Solana finds herself feeling almost giddy as she effectively slashes all four of his tires.

This is the last thing she ever saw herself doing: completely destroying her ex’s car without a care in the world, but it’s also exactly what’s happening.

And she can’t even say that she feels any regret about it.

Doesn’t feel bad about it.

Why should she? He never felt bad about any of the shit he did to her. 

And she especially doesn’t feel bad as she finds herself carving her name not only in his leather seats but the outside of the truck as well.

Naomi looks over at Dom who is now actually crying and laughs. “Look at it this way, Dom. We’re only doing this to your truck. Imagine what he’s going to do to you once he finds out what you did to his wife.” It brings her a great sense of satisfaction to see the terror in his eyes. 

It also makes her send out the brief video she recorded of Bayley and Solana beating the shit out of the truck with bats to her group chat with the men.

Naomi: Just doing hot girl shit. 💅🏿

Their replies start coming in only minutes later. 

Jimmy: Idk what’s going on, but I’m turned tf on. 

Jey: Why ya’ll females always go after our cars and shit? 

Roman: Why the fuck is it everytime you two take my wife out, it’s always some shit?

Roman: What the fuck is going on?

Naomi: Because you all asked so nicely 😐, turns out Solana used to date Dom back in the day.

Jimmy: Rey’s boy? The fuck? She too damn fine for that weasel. He could never handle all that ass.

Roman: One more time, Jimmy. Just one more time.

Jey: Naomi, please give us the rest of the story before Roman make your ass a widow.

Naomi: 🥴 Anyway, she told us some of the stuff he used to say to and about her, and honestly….even more trash than we thought.

Roman: Like?

Naomi: We promised Solana we wouldn’t say anything. Just know he was mean to her. So I guess she ran into him and he said some out of pocket shit, she got upset and PUNCHED him!!!!!!!

Jimmy: Soso HIT someone?!? 

Naomi: Sure did!

Jey: Damn! Our Soso growing up on us!

Roman: I wanna know what the fuck he said to her.

Naomi: Ask her when you get home. 🙄

Naomi: So we’re fucking up his truck while he watches helplessly. 😊

Roman: The dead don’t need cars anyway.

Roman’s chilly response is both given and, in her opinion, well overdue. She’s never heard anything nice or good about Mysterio’s boy, so she can only imagine the full extent of what he put Solana through. 

It’s why she’s mostly pleased by how Solana allows herself to let loose, to get her receipt. She deserves it.

As Solana and Bayley pour glitter in his gas tank, Naomi casually calls out, “what should we get to eat after this?”

________

“I committed assault and vandalism in one day. One.”

Roman smiles as he adjusts his tie, partially thankful his clearly distressed wife is unable to see his humored response to her frantic worrying. 

“That bitch got what he deserved, Solana.” Part of it. But, Solana doesn’t need to know Roman absolutely plans on making sure she never has to run into that alelo ever again. No one will. “You shouldn’t feel bad.”

She really shouldn’t, because he can only imagine what was said to her, the treatment she received from that piece of shit. None of which she deserved. All of which makes him want to say fuck the gala and get straight to torturing the fucker.

Through the mirror attached to his dresser, he watches the bathroom door open, Solana stepping out, a robe only partially covering the length of her red dress. Leaning against the door, she crosses her arms, clearly in her head over what he partially wishes he could have been present for.

He would have taken the metal bats to Dom himself versus the truck.

But, he’s also him, and she is her. 

Two very different people. 

Roman moves across the room, pulling her against him as her hands lay on his chest. “You really mean to tell me you didn’t feel the least bit good at fucking his shit up?”

And he sees it, the way she’s fighting back the agreement. He reminds, hands moving to undo her robe. “You’re not ever required to be nice to people who are cruel to you, Solana. You owe them nothing.” She seems to be mulling over his words as he pushes her robe off her shoulders, watching it fall to the floor. “Fuck….” She always looks good, but there’s something about seeing her in the red, the way the dress hugs her curves, taunting him, testing his resolve, that has them wanting to ditch the gala for an entirely different reason. “God, you’re beautiful.”

Her smile is bashful, but he’s pleased to see her not look away, to maintain eye contact as she murmurs a quiet ‘thank you’. She gasps a bit, informing, “Oh, I noticed earlier you were running low on your medicine, so I called it in and picked it up for you.”

That takes him off guard. It was on his to-do list. Somewhere on there, he’s certain. But for her to go out of her way to take care of it for him, it makes him feel something he can’t really explain. 

Solana’s smile dims a bit as she gently reminds, “you’ve gotta stay on top of that. It’s—it’s important, Roman.”

“Yeah…” It’s a response to her, but he’s still very much in his head over whatever this strange ass, yet somehow comforting feeling is. Fucking confusing ass shit. Clearing his throat, Roman forces himself to get his head back in the game. “Solana….” His tone is something different, something that makes her a bit nervous, that weighs down her previous smile even more.

She does her best not to reveal the alteration in her happiness level. But, she can just tell the mood is about to shift a bit. “Yes?”

To his credit, his hand moving in circles on the small of her back gives her a bit of comfort. Eases the weight of whatever he’s about to share. “Tonight..tonight I need to be on. Focused. The fucking annoying part about these things is that everyone’s there to see if they can seek out some type of soft point. Some kind of weakness.” 

This confuses her. Soft point? That’s not an issue for Roman, and she points out as such. “But, but you have no weaknesses.” 

Something flashes in his eyes and before she can say anything, not that she necessarily would, he’s back to explaining himself. “I don’t want you to think that I’m being cold with you. I’m not upset or avoiding you. I just—”

“You need to show them why you’re the Head of the Table.” His latter explanation provides the previously missing clarification. Reaching for his hand, she offers a gentle smile. “I understand.” 

“Do you?” For a second, it almost sounds like there’s a sense of urgency to his tone. Like he needs to know that she knows it’s nothing personal against her.

And it’s not really until this moment that Solana realizes there are two sides to Roman Reigns. The side that she sees, the almost gentle, caring side. The man who always goes out of his way to ensure her comfort and safety at all times. The man who’s changed her life in ways he’ll probably never be able to fully understand.

Then there’s the other side. The side that makes his name alone strikes fear in even the strongest of men. The most violent. The most diabolical. A god among men. 

Two completely different sides of the coin, but still a single coin.

This other side though, the side only she gets to see because it’s reserved for her. The side that might even be considered a form of vulnerability…..he only shows that with her, only shows it to her.

A….safe space, of sorts.

She is his safe space. 

This second, or maybe third, major realization of the day only makes that love aspect so much more confusing. Though it makes her heart swell to know she can provide that for him. That she can be that for him.

Pulling from floating thoughts, Solana brings herself back to the conversation at hand. “I do.” She offers an explanation of her own. “I know I asked if you’ll stay with me the whole night, but—but, I don’t think I need that.” And before he can protest, she gives the valid reasons why. “I didn’t know Bayley and Naomi would be there. I’m fine with them. I just—I didn’t want to be alone in a room full of people I don’t know.”

“I would never leave you alone.” He brings his hand to the back of her neck, informing in a low voice. “I might not interact with you much, but that doesn’t mean I’m not watching. 

“I know.” She cuts him off, again working to reassure him that he doesn’t need to be so focused on her. It’s clear there’s a task for the evening, a box that needs to be checked. And she doesn’t want to interfere in any sort of way. “I’ll be fine.” With a half smile, she reminds, “especially if there’s a bat nearby.”

A genuine smile grows on Roman’s face as he pulls her into him, Solana resting in his safe embrace. Being in his arms is starting to become one of her favorite things. “My fine ass, bat swinging wife.” She giggles against him as Roman drops his hand to her ass, giving a slap. 

“Let’s go.”

________

The minute the SUV door opens and Roman climbs out first only to offer his hand as Solana steps out behind him, her gaze taking in the beautiful mansion that looks like something out of a movie premiere, her anxiety starts to rise. Taking in the scene around her, she’s met with an actual red carpet leading up the steps to the mansion that has large, glass, double doors with swirled marble intricate designs that match the stone of the building. There’s a line of cars both behind and in front of their SUV, indicating guests are still arriving.

That makes her feel at least a little bit better.

She didn’t want to make Roman late. Even if something tells her he wouldn’t care one way or the other.

It’s not missed upon her how he gives her hand an almost gentle squeeze and rubs his thumb over her knuckles all the while keeping his gaze up and focused. She sees how his light eyes subtly survey the perimeter as he leads them up the steps. She stills when two large men dressed in black suits wearing earpieces, guards clearly, stop them with a raised hand.

“Please walk through—-”

“Do I look fucking stupid?” Roman’s question needs no answer as he motions for Solana to walk ahead of him through the metal detectors that separate attendees from entering. Slowly, with a bit of anxiety at somehow setting them off even though there’s no way for her to, she does so without incident. Roman does the same looking every bit annoyed as he feels, but it makes her feel a bit better when he takes hand in his again.

“No weapons allowed.” Is all he says. Calmly. Simply. Without anything else. She nods, figuring as such, but a brief sideways glance at her husband, and she wonders how beneficial that actually is when he, himself, is a walking weapon.

She’s more than certain he’s killed before with his bare hands. Not a weapon needed.

Solana takes in the setting before her. Circular tables litter the first and second levels of the beautiful building, intricate, opulent centerpieces decorating each table. A live band plays some unfamiliar song as guests mingle about, many of which are admiring the various art pieces that occupy almost all of the walls. The lights are dimmed and the smell of lavender and honey penetrates, creating an almost calming atmosphere that starkly contrasts the fact that almost everyone in eyesight is a part of the crime underworld. Trained, brutal killers. 

Including the man who continues to soothe his thumb across her knuckles. 

“Come on.”

Solana stays close besides Roman as he leads them through the sea of people. Many of which, men primarily, seem to settle their gaze on her, her chest, only to travel up to see the man beside her and smartly redirect their attention literally anywhere else.

In some sort of strange way, that brings a sense of comfort to her. To know that just his presence wards off any and all unwanted attention. Makes her feel safer.

Then again, she’s not sure if any environment exists where Roman doesn’t make her feel safe. 

She feels even better when she realizes where he’s led them. A table full of familiar, equally welcomed faces. 

Bayley is the first to greet her. She stands up from the table, and Solana is in awe of her teal dress that hugs every curve beautifully. “You look fuckin amazing.” She reaches over, pulling Solana away from Roman and into a hug. “Aren’t you glad you went with this one?” She gestures down to the dress.

Solana laughs and nods. “Yes. I am.”

Naomi and Jimmy are also standing now, forming an almost line to hug Solana. Naomi pulls her in even tighter. “How's the fist?”

Solana gasps as Naomi laughs only for Jimmy to crack his little joke. “I made sure ain’t no bats around just in case you get upset again, sis.” 

Allowing him to hug her, Solana rolls her eyes and murmurs, “that’s not happening ever again.”

“You might wanna watch your shit, Big Dog. Soso believe in breaking shit when she gets angry.”

Feeling a bit defenseless, she grasps at straws. “It was—it wasn’t like that.”

Jey scoffs, pointing out after downing some of his wine, “girl, we saw you on that video. You was swangin the hell out of that thing.”

Cheeks flushed, Solana sits down in the seat Roman has pulled out for her. Right next to him. Bayley on her other side. She looks over at Naomi. “I can’t believe you sent it to them.”

“Are you kidding? Our sweet little Solana beating the shit out of her ex’s car with a bat? That’s Kodak worthy.”

She rolls her eyes, eager to take the attention off herself as she notices Jey’s seat beside him is empty. “Is Nicki not coming?”

Naomi answers with a chuckle. “Girl, Nicki got banned years ago after she—”

Jey quickly jumps in, depriving Solana of a story she’s certain involved some type of altercation between him and his wife. Their marriage truly does not make any sense to her whatsoever. “Aye, we don’t need to rehash the past.”

“Yeah, whatever.” Naomi leans over and whispers, “I’ll tell you some other time.”

Solana hopes she follows through on that. Roman asks the twins something in Samona, the three of them starting a dialogue in a language only they can understand. And judging by the serious expressions on all of their faces, she surmises that it’s business related. 

Especially when Solo and Paul join the table. It’s almost like the ladies don’t exist after that, but it doesn’t bother Solana. It can’t when Roman already made it clear what tonight would be like.

It’s nothing personal. 

Just business. 

Bored and kind of eager to explore what seems like one of a kind masterpieces, she turns to Bayley and asks, “can we go look at the art?”

Bayley scoffs. “Hell yeah.” Standing up and adjusting her dress, she remarks, “it’s better than sitting here doing nothing.” Glancing at Naomi, she asks, “you wanna come with us?”

Naomi sucks her teeth. “Girl, you don’t even have to ask.” 

Solana smiles, grateful for their attendance and companionship. 

Roman’s deep voice cuts through with a simple two word command. “Watch her.”

She looks back at him, offering a small smile she hopes will settle any concern he may have about her. He doesn’t need to worry about that. Just needs to focus on himself. 

Linking arms with the other ladies, they move through the crowd, starting with the art near the entrance and making their way around. Solana seems to be the most intrigued by the pieces selected, trying to detect a theme in each one. Naomi and Bayley, however, seem to settle for a combination of roasting and admiring. More of the first than the latter. 

“Oh fuck, I was hoping they didn’t show up.” Solana is in the midst of deciphering a piece of abstract art when Bayley’s almost steel exclamation pulls her from her focus. 

Confused, she asks, “who?”

Naomi answers, subtly gesturing across the room. “Don’t stare. It’ll draw attention to us.”

Solana does her best, but it’s hard not to when she sees a set of new arrivals, most of which are absolute strangers, faces unseen prior to this very moment.

But one is not.

One is a face she saw, a person she spoke to, just days prior.

Brandi. 

She’s holding hands with a tall man, striking blue eyes Solana can see from nearly across the room, bleached blonde hair that somehow compliments his tanned skin. There’s a boyish look about him that Solana would guess is a facade, something that deceives people, cleverly hiding the fact that he’s just as much a killer as the guests around them. 

Before she can ask who he is though, Bayley offers introductions. “That is Cody Rhodes. And the pretty lady on his arm is his wife, Brandi.”

And just like that, Solana’s stomach drops. Her mouth feels dry. “Wife?” Solana looks back and forth between the couple. “Brandi is Cody’s wife?”

This just got a lot more confusing and complicated. The kind woman whose young daughter Solana ‘rescued’ is married to Roman’s greatest enemy? The man he hates most?

And suddenly Solana is thinking about her interaction with Solo after she mentioned Brandi’s name. 

He knew.

So, why didn’t he say anything to her?

Why didn’t he say anything to Roman?

________

Roman ignoring Solana for the majority of the night ends up being a lot easier than she anticipated. 

It’s quelled by the fact that she’s had one hell of a day, several major revelations clogging up her mental space. 

Remembering what Roman told her about his family.

Trying to figure out if she’s in love with Roman.

Trying to figure out if Roman could ever love her.

Accidentally helping out his sworn enemy’s wife.

Her personal guard being aware of this last piece of information yet saying nothing to her or her husband. 

Even though she’s sworn off alcohol after the last drunken disaster, there’s a burning temptation to walk over to the open bar and request something that can at least take the edge off. 

Something to help her clear her head.

It’s after dinner, and Roman, Paul, and the twins are moving around, briefly speaking with various guests. Roman and Paul, in particular, seem to keep the conversations perfunctory before moving onto the next one. Clearly checking off certain, necessary boxes.

Solana again is viewing artwork, doing whatever she can to distract herself when someone unexpected comes up to her.

“Hey.” She looks to her side to see no one other than Solo. He looks almost….nervous. “Can I talk to you for a minute?”

Does she want to talk to him at this current moment in time? Not really. But, something tells her she needs to. 

“Yes.”

Solo guides them to a corner that’s as close to secluded as they’re gonna get at the crowded event.

“Listen, I…..I wanted to apologize to you.”

Solana’s eyes widen. The surprises just keep coming. “Wh–what?”

“I know….I know I’ve been ass.” She wouldn’t necessarily use that word to describe his behavior and disposition, but it’s not exactly an inaccurate usage either. “It’s just….before you came around, I was just getting my chance to show Roman I deserve a seat at the table with him and my brothers. Then he assigns me to you, and I just feel like I’m not proving myself no more.”

Solana started to figure as such. Guessed that maybe he resented her to a certain extent because he’d essentially been assigned as her adult babysitter. That would probably annoy anyone.

“But, at the end of the day, Roman is the Tribal Chief. His word is final. I have to respect that.” He sighs, shrugging. “And as his wife, I gotta respect you too, which I ain’t been doing, so I apologize.”

Solana has never really been one to be on the receiving end of apologies from people. It’s still an uncomfortable experience as she murmurs an ‘it’s okay’ followed up with her question about his omission. “Why didn’t you tell me who Brandi was? Or tell Roman?”

He sighs loudly, voice lowering a bit as he explains his actions. “You’re new to the family, so you don’t know the history between Cody and Roman. Telling him would only kick off some shit. I figured if she came around again, then that I would tell you.” His explanation makes sense, Solana nodding slowly. He too doesn’t seem to want to upset Roman if possible. “I’m sorry for that too.”

She shakes her head. “No. I—I get it, and—I’m sorry, too, that you got stuck with me.” 

Solo smiles a bit. The first time she’s ever seen him do so. It feels…..odd. “You ain’t so bad.” He then asks, brow lifted a bit. “So, we cool?”

Solana swallows. What reason does she have for them not to be at this point? Everything he’s said makes perfect sense. “Of course.” Offering a small smile, she says sincerely, “thank you, Solo.” 

He nods, not saying anything else as he walks off.

Left alone, blowing out a big breath, she looks around. Solana spots the hall that leads to the ladies room. Making her way through the crowd, she walks in and goes into the first open stall. Relieving her bladder is an unexpected, small but significant enough type of relief. It feels similar to the peace she now has with the whole Solo situation. 

Solana walks over to the sink, pumping some soap into her hands, activating the motion sensor to shut on the water as she rinses, watching the suds empty down the drain. 

“Hey, sis.” 

Solana’s head snaps up the second she’s met with the voice she hasn’t heard in months. Her brown eyes, through the mirror, locking with an almost identical set of brown. The only difference being the glimpse of emotion that’s always been unfamiliar to her but a resident friend of his.

Hate.

Solana moves as quickly as she can, but it’s not fast enough, because he’s got a fist full of her hair. Wes yanks her head back and shoves her away, providing him the access he needs to bring his hand across her face, backhanding her so hard that it makes her double over in pain. 

Feeling an unfamiliar wetness, she feels her cheek, only to see blood on her fingertips. A glance at Wes' hand shows that the rings on his fingers must have cut her. 

But she can’t focus on that too long because his hand is wrapped around her neck as he thrusts her against the adjacent wall, searing pain shooting across her back at the violent impact.

She claws at his iron grip, his dark eyes narrowing against her. So much hate. “You dumb slut, did you really think you could hide forever?” Her eyes shut, her mind screaming Roman’s name in a way her mouth cannot. “Were you stupid enough to believe he could protect you from me?” Solana winces as he tightens his grip. “You’re a weak, stupid bitch and you always will be.”

Weak

Slut

Stupid

Dumb

Bitch

All words that she’s heard before. Cruel names she’s been called over the years in conjunction with beatings. Beatings like this that have left her bloody and broken. Feeling empty. Feeling like every hurtful thing she’s ever been called. Feeling that weak adjective that he’s always made her defining trait.

Solana closes her eyes and starts to retreat to that mental place of superficial security, bracing for what’s sure to be a beating like no other. She tries to return to that spot in her brain that’s accepted that this is her reality, and there’s nothing she can do about it.

The only problem is that that place doesn’t exist anymore.

She can’t find it.

She doesn’t feel weak or dumb or stupid. Doesn’t feel helpless and victim to his sadism.

Not even in this moment with his hand wrapped tightly around her throat. 

No….

She feels something else. 

Something much stronger, powerful, fueling.

Anger.

She’s pissed the fuck off.

It’s when she sees his other hand pull out a knife, that for a second, a brief moment, she hesitates. She hesitates, momentarily paralyzed by the fear and trauma that single item has brought her over the past twenty years. But, she closes her eyes and centers herself, tapping back into months of training, of sparring, of fighting.

Snarling almost, her rage and determination growing synchronously, Solana lifts up her leg with all the force she can muster, her knee coming into direct impact with Wes’s crotch area. Instantly, he releases her, dubbed over, groaning and cursing. Solana’s a bit lightheaded, but she powers through it, quickly grabbing the vase of flowers on the counter and swinging it with all her might over his head.

“Fuck!” He grunts, falling to the ground, his knife tumbling across the intricately designed tile flooring. 

Rushing to grab it, he does the same, but she manages to outpace him. Her speed gives her the upperhand. And with a cry of her own, she slams it down directly into the palm of his outreaching hand.

Wes howls in pain as she rips it out and kicks him in his side, watching as he tumbles onto his back. Solana slams her heel down on his other arm, pinning it and forcing the knife through his right hand this time. 

He cries out again and she backs away for a second, tempted to drive it through another part of him when he growls with all the rage and pain, “I’m gonna fucking kill you, you bitch!”

His threat, unlike countless times before, doesn’t frighten her, doesn’t make her tremble and cower in fear. 

It just pisses her off even more.

“Come on.” Solana motions for him to come at her, for him to climb off the ground and fight her. “Come on!” Using the bloody knife, she takes and slices it across her dress, allowing her more freedom and fluidity with her movements. Kicking the material to the side, she crouches down, egging him on. “Hit me, you son of a bitch!”

Finally to his feet, Solana sees him ready to charge at her. Her eyes never leave him, studying every single movement of his bleeding body. And just when he’s about to slam into her, she jumps to the side, watching him slam into the wall. Solana doesn’t waste a single second as she rushes behind him, lifts her leg and kicks him in the head, intentionally trying to drive her heel into his neck. His shouts of pain further her drive as she drops her leg, snatches him by his hair and slams the knife down into his shoulder. 

She jumps back as his body plops to the ground again, Wes rolling over and writhing in pain, profusely bleeding from several parts of his body, black suit staining dark, bloody red. Solana moves toward him, utilizing every bit of strength coursing through her body as she lands brutal kick after kick into his side, intentionally aiming for his chest. A kick for every broken bone, every bruise, every cut, every burn, every time he waterboarded her to the point where she was unconscious. Every fucking thing. She only stops when she hears the satisfying crack of one or several of his ribs. 

But, it’s not enough. It’s not enough because all she can think about now is all the times he made her bleed, made her scream, made her flail with fear and terror. It’s his turn now. 

Kicking off her heels, she grabs him by the collar of his suit jacket. “Come here, you bastard.” He’s heavy, and it’s a strain to drag him, but she does just that, pulling him into one of the stalls. Solana shoves the back of his head into the toilet and holds him down face first into the water.

Wes flails against her, but her grip is just like her spirit. Strong and unrelenting.

“How does that feel?” She taunts, tears streaming down her face because as vindicating as this moment is, it still doesn’t strip away the pain of years of abuse and torture. Yanking his head back, pleased by the way he coughs violently, gasping for air, she continues to mock him with the same taunts he always threw her way. “Say something, bitch!” Solana slams his head back down into the water. Repeating the same act of torture he utilized on her for years. 

She does it until she feels her strength starting to wane, eventually releasing his clumped body down as she backs away, leaning against the counter. 

Chest moving up and down from her heavy breathing, exhaust settling in as adrenaline fades out, it’s only then she turns to look at her reflection in the mirror. Face reddened, hair disheveled, red dress stained with his blood splatter, a mixture of her blood from the cut that probably wont need anything more than a liquid bandaid, and tears running down her cheek, yet she’s never felt fucking better.

This….this is liberation.

It’s freedom from shackles of fear. 

Fear of the one person she never thought she wouldn’t be terrified of. And yet, that same source of so much heartache lies before her: bloody, bruised, broken. 

All because of her.

Commotion outside the door and banging against it alerts her to the fact that somebody has clearly caught onto her absence. Roman, most likely. 

Body suddenly very heavy, she moves over to the door, leaning back against it, eyes landing on Wes who’s coughing up blood. For a brief second, she feels a sliver of sadness, if guilt. But just as quickly as it’s there, it’s knocked out the way, replaced with pride. Roman’s words from earlier in the night returning and cementing her satisfaction.

“You’re not ever required to be nice to people who are cruel to you, Solana. You owe them nothing.”

And fewer have been crueler than the man before her.

Voice and body trembling from the weight of it all, Solana affirms with all the emotion and sincerity through her body. “I am not scared of you anymore.” She turns the lock, stepping out of the way to avoid the avalanche of bodies about to enter. “And I never will be again.”

Sure enough, it sounds like a stampede. Solana closes her eyes, stealing a moment to rest and relish in her inner peace.

“Solana.”

His voice is urgent and pressured, and seconds later, he has her in his arms, holding her against him. She breathes in his scent, comforted by his arms around her.

“I’m fine.” She knows he needs to hear it, needs to hear the words come from her mouth. Even if she knows she probably looks anything but, clothes and body splashed with her brother’s blood. 

“Solo!” Roman’s voice is filled with unbridled rage that, any other time, she’d probably tremble at. But, in this moment, it’s valid as hell. And beyond that, she knows without a doubt now that he would never make her the object of his anger. “Pick him up!”

Solana sets her gaze on a barely conscious Wes as Solo drags him out of the stall. 

Jimmy and Jey being present, Roman’s fury, and Solo holding him in position are all the things that  alert her to what’s about to happen. 

Jimmy whistles, taking in Wes' battered appearance. “Damn, she beat the hell out of you!”

“No.” Solana says it too quietly, too softly. She has to place her hand on Roman’s chest to get his eyes back on her. “No.”

“I don’t want you to kill him.” And before Roman can protest, ask her if she’s lost her fucking mind, she steps toward Wes, explaining to all parties but directing her wishes to him. “I want him to live in fear….to know what that’s like.” Eyes burning with a fresh set of tears, she emphasizes. “It’s his turn to be scared.” Head tilted, scoffing a bit at how pathetic he looks, she mocks him one last time, “who’s the bitch now?”

Without even thinking about it, Solana lifts her hand and connects her fist directly with the side of his jaw, knocking him out cold. 

“Goddamn!” Jey shouts with all the amusement in the world as Roman pulls her back into him, lips pressed against her temple.

“I’m okay,” she reiterates, holding onto his sleeve. “I promise.” She is. Maybe better than she’s been in some time. 

Better than she’s ever been.

Roman steps back for a second and slides his jacket off, placing it around her. 

Solana reaches for his hand and gestures for the door. “Let’s go.” He still looks so angry, so furious, but she knows it’s not toward her. Nevertheless, he doesn’t need to stay in this headspace. Not with his high blood pressure. Not with his health at stake.

Roman says something to Solo in Samoan and begins to guide her out of the bathroom that’s been completely destroyed in the fight. A crowd of most of the guests has gathered around, clearly curious and wanting to know just what the hell happened. It’s fair and almost expected. 

But, despite looking like everything she’s just been through, Solana doesn’t shy away from the stares and whispers. Doesn’t necessarily care. Because as ironic as it is, this might be the most confident she’s ever felt in her life. 

But, it’s when she sees Cody and Brandi that Solana just knows something is about to go wrong.

Cody smirks, calling out loud enough for all to hear, Roman especially. “I guess women and children aren’t off limits after all.” 

There’s more to it. There has to be more to it, because the second Roman rips his hand away from Solana and charges at Rhodes seems to take even the instigator off guard. Instantly, Jimmy and Jey are rushing toward their cousin as he lands a blow against Rhodes that sends him flat on his ass. 

“Roman!” She calls out after him, moving in his direction, only to feel herself being restrained. She looks back and catches Bayley and Naomi looking with worried expressions. 

“We need to get out of here!” Naomi urges, but Solana can’t seem to look away from what’s turned into an all out brawl. Jimmy and Jey struggle to hold back their irate cousin as he spits venom against Rhodes who looks just as pissed off now, blood running from his nose.

“I’m the head of the table!” 

“I’ll whoop everybody’s ass around here!”

“This is my kingdom, you little bitch!”

“I can’t just leave him!” Solana pleads, trying to pull away from Bayley who clearly has no intentions on letting her go.

“He’ll be fine, Solana. But, he’s pissed the fuck off, and now Rhodes is pissed, and it’s about to be a shitshow that if he was thinking straight, he would never want you around.” Naomi explains and adds on, “the twins won’t let anything happen. I promise you that. Now let’s go.”

And despite everything in her screaming not to, to stay with him, to somehow find a way to help him calm down, there’s a logical part of her that knows the girls are right.

Even with him clearfly only seeing red as she continues to shout at Cody, the other man also being held back, barely, by his men. 

“There ain’t a man alive who can touch my button. If I had one, you wouldn’t be able to locate it. Can’t no man knock me out! I’m tired of being humble! I’m tired of letting people think they got a chance! The Tribal Chief is heads and shoulders above everybody! I run this all!”

Roman is almost a different person, so consumed by his rage, no doubt most of it because of Wes, Cody just being on the receiving end but not just taking it without responding with threats of his own.

“Time and place, you narcissistic son of a bitch!”

“Not everyone is fucking scared of you, Reigns!”

“I’ll fight you any fucking day!”

Solana’s eyes briefly lock with Brandi who’s also being rushed away, and she swears, she sees what looks like an almost sympathetic expression. Like if she could, she’d apologize.

It makes Solana frown.

Naomi pulls on her again. “Let’s go, Solana.” 

Security for the gala is now rushing over as some of Roman and Cody’s men are now throwing fists as well. Solana hates this. Hates how this has all played out. But, she also knows that she does nothing to help the situation by hanging around and risking getting hurt.

That’ll only upset Roman more. 

So even with a tremendous amount of apprehension, she allows them to guide her out, never once not thinking about the man she’s almost certain she more than cares about at this point. 

________

Solana is up and alert the minute she hears him enter their front door. In the living room, lying on the sofa, her go-to spot when waiting for his arrival, she partially expects him to walk in and meet her. The way he has several times before now, but this time is different.

Heavy footsteps don’t bring him to meet her. They instead carry him past the living room, through the kitchen, and outside the backdoor. 

Instantly, she’s sitting up. 

She goes to follow him when Jimmy and Jey enter the house looking every bit the night that they’ve all had. 

It’s a stupid question, and she knows as such, but she can’t help but ask. “How is he?”

Jimmy is the one to answer, blowing out a breath. “Honestly? Still pretty pissed but calm enough to come back home.” He then shares, “I tried to get him to sleep it off at my place, but he wanted to come back here.

Good. Solana doesn’t say it, but she sure is thinking it. Not even from the perspective of her being uncomfortable being in this big house all by herself with just Dulce. That’s maybe a part of it, sure. But, the biggest thing is that this is their home. And if he needs something, she wants to be there to help him with whatever that is.

“It’s okay. I can watch him.”

“Solana….” Jey cuts in, stuffing his hands in his suit pocket. “You know he would never hurt you, right? I know he was definitely on one tonight, but—”

Seeing where this is going, she cuts in, calm but firm. “I’m not scared of him. I—I know he would never hurt me.”

They seem to be pleased by her answer but still a bit hesitant, Jimmy offering, “if you want, I can stay over tonight. Make sure—”

“He’s my husband.” She swallows, nothing unwavering about her reiteration. “I’ve got him.”

Jimmy and Jey still look unsure but follow her wishes. Each giving her a hug before reiterating to call them if she needs anything. She’s thankful for their support but mostly their making sure Roman made it back home safely. 

Solana carries Dulce up to her shared room with Roman and closes the door to avoid any unnecessary interruptions. It’s only then she finally makes her way back downstairs, venturing through the living room and kitchen to the backdoor. Hand on the knob, Solana doesn’t hesitate to turn it, bringing her to the man she’s had on her mind nonstop the past few hours.

Roman’s hulking figure is plopped down on the edge of the patio chaise lounge. His button down shirt is discarded, his muscles stretching against the cotton of his white undershirt. Playing with the sides of one of his shirts she threw on after her shower, Solana sees there’s no need to announce her presence.

He’s already aware. 

With calmness that contrasts his demeanor just hours earlier, he advises, “you should be asleep.”

His voice is hoarse, heavy, weighed down with something he seems keen on internalizing. No matter how much it wrecks him on the inside. It brings a frown to her face and a pain to her chest. 

Swallowing, Solana moves closer to him, calmly countering, “you know I won’t sleep until I know you’re okay.”

“Okay….” Roman chuckles, and it’s almost bitter. An almost ironic tone as he repeats her chosen word. “Solana, nothing about tonight was okay.”

Her heart grows even heavier than it’s been following tonight’s events.

It tears Solana up to see him in this state. To see and almost feel his turmoil and not be able to do anything about it. Because he doesn’t want help. Because he’s so used to handling everything on his own, as he’s stated to her multiple times before.

But, that’s the thing. He’s not alone.

She just needs to get him to see and understand that. 

Setting aside any reservations and trepidation about her next steps, she closes the distance between them, kneeling down on the patio stone directly in front of him. Naturally, his eyes lock with hers, and for a second, she sees a tremble of his nearly impenetrable wall. “Roman….” One hand on his knee, the other reaching to grab his hand. “Please….please talk to me.” His eyes briefly dart away, a sign of her words doing something to his resolve. “Whatever….whatever happened tonight, let me help you work through it.”

He sets his focus back on her, the hand under hers lifting to cup her face, thumb ghosting over the cut she cleaned, tended, and sealed with a liquid band-aid. “You got hurt tonight….”

“I don’t care about that.” Her dismissal is aggressive but slides into something soothing almost as she reiterates. “I—I care about you.”

His jaw clenches. “I lost my temper tonight.”

“I don’t care about that either.” Again, she’s dismissive, pushing aside anything that could prevent him from hearing her right now. Really hearing her. “I wasn’t scared of you. I’m—I’m never scared of you, Roman.” Swallowing, she stands up and moves herself on his lap, relieved when he wraps his arms around her. “But…I was scared for you.” She pushes back some of his hair that came out of his always neat bun during the brawl. “I just….I wish you would talk to me.”

But, she also knows that she can’t force it. Can’t make him. Even though it physically aches her to know he’s dealing with so much and won’t let her help.

Won’t let her be there for him the same way he’s been there for her.

“Cody and I grew up together. We were….good friends.” Solana isn’t sure she’s still breathing as Roman begins to explain in a low voice, his hand moving soft circles against her side. She says and does nothing, not wanting to do anything to risk deterring him from this rare occurrence of vulnerability. “We…we bonded over being groomed to take over our families legacies. His…his father was good friends with mine.” 

Friends….

It feels almost impossible to imagine Roman and Cody as ever being anything more than sworn enemies. She’s not sure she’s even seen a deeper level of hatred than what she saw in their eyes tonight.

“It was my 10th birthday. We were gathered at the house to celebrate, and it was fine, until it wasn’t.” Roman grows quiet, as he clearly hesitates. She starts to tell him that he doesn’t have to, that she doesn’t want to trigger him. But, he continues. “I don’t remember everything. Just the sound of bullets, screams, and then heat from the fire that someone set.” Fire… Solana’s eyes naturally drop to his tatted arm, tribal ink covering burns he clearly received that night of pure hell. Eyes watering, she continues to listen to him relive what sounds like a night of horror. “I was the only one who survived. My parents, my aunt, uncle, and my seven brothers and sisters were all killed.”

 “Oh my god….” Her heart literally breaks in that moment, hearing him confirm what she’d remembered just earlier in the day but didn’t want to actually believe. It’s just too devastating. To lose his entire family in that manner, all while celebrating his birthday of all days….it seems inconceivable.

Solana isn’t sure she’s ever felt this much sympathy towards another human being. 

Roman’s voice, however, never wavers. She can see he’s doing his best to simply recall and not feel. “And it wasn’t until I was 14 that a mutual friend of ours at the time, Seth, let it slip while he was in one of his manic states, that I should talk to Cody about what really happened that night.” His voice takes on a darker, angrier tone, and she can feel him shift underneath her. “So, I did, and I found out….that his father was responsible for the hit. That he betrayed my father. And that Cody knew the whole fucking time.”

There’s understandable anger in his words. Anger at such cruel betrayal. “For four fucking years, he pretended to be my friend. Pretended like he didn’t fucking know that his father was the reason my family was all dead.” His voice dips into something low, something much darker. “I can’t tell you…much after that, because I was so angry that all I saw was my rage.”

Solana brings her hand to his chest, a comforting placement, though she’s not certain anything could comfort this level of trauma. 

His expression is blank as he shares coldly. “I killed them all. His parents. His siblings. Everyone. I left him the same way his father left me: alone.” He swallows thickly, still not looking at her. “I told you before, Solana. I’m not a good man.”

“That’s not true.” She finally speaks, voice hoarse,  eyes watering at the truth of it all. She had no idea he’d been through so much. Lost so much more. “I don’t think I’ve met a man better than you, Roman.”

She’s never met any man like Roman.

Moving her hands to cup his face, it settles her a bit that he’s finally looking at her again. Closed off and back to being unreadable, it’s still eye contact. And she’ll take it. She’ll take whatever she can get from him. “No one….no one can know what it’s like to lose like we’ve lost. I….I get you. And….and I think you get me too.” Sniffling, she shakes her head, never wanting to invalidate his experience. “And no, I know….I know it’s not the same, but what I do know is that I haven’t felt alone since…since being with you.” She hasn’t felt a lot of things since being with him. Hasn’t felt the same amount of depression and emptiness. Just happiness and joy. “And I don’t want you to feel alone either, because….because you have me, and….and I’m not going anywhere.” Her tone drops into a soft whisper. “Haría cualquier cosa por ti.”

Because I love you.

But, that can’t be stated. Not aloud. Not right now. Maybe not ever. It’s not what he needs. Because it’s for selfish reasons. Because it would make her feel better to verbalize what she’s finally realized what she’s been feeling towards him. What she feels for him.

Love

“Besides….” She offers a small smile, messing with his beard, knowing the weight of this conversation might be too much for him, offering him a bit of a detour. “Who else is gonna bail me out the next time I fuck up someone’s truck?”

He cracks a small smile, and it makes her heart swell. It’s the best thing she’s seen all day. “I think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard you cuss.”

Relieved to hear a growing lightness in his voice, she buries her head in the crook of his neck, murmuring, “guess you’re rubbing off on me….”

Roman brings his hand to her hip, tugging her closer, kissing her temple. Lips pressed against her forehead, he murmurs. “I’m proud of you.” That means so much to her. His approval. “Cause while I hate to agree with my dumbass cousin, Jimmy was right. You whooped his ass.”

Solana can’t help it. She laughs into his chest, looking up while biting down on her bottom lip. Voice quiet, she expresses both a question and agreement. “I did, didn’t I?”

He rolls his eyes but nods, bringing his hand to her cheek, thumb and index finger lightly cupping her chin. “Sure did, baby…“ He doesn’t say anything after that. He doesn’t need to. Neither does she. She just nestles closer to him as he stands up, still holding her, grip protective and firm. 

Like he has no intentions of letting go.

Solana prays he never does. 

Because while Roman Reigns is the last person she ever expected to end up with, to care for, to love…..that’s exactly what’s happened.  

That’s exactly who she’s with.

Exactly who she cares for.

And exactly who she loves.

________

Xavier stands in front of the hospital bed, a hospital bed he was still in days prior, where his son stood before him as they schemed together to create what he thought was a foolproof plan. It’s a plan, however, that didn’t go the way he intended.

Far from it.

Wesley was always supposed to attack Solana in the bathroom, was supposed to rough her up a bit to see if Reigns would come to her rescue, the prediction being he’d move to kill Wes but Solana would interfere, would stop him.

Because his stupid second born has always been a victim to her love mentality. Would be blinded by whatever fruitless hope she still has that some part of him or his son loves her. Because they’re family.

But, that didn’t happen.

His son attacked her, yes, but the bitch fought back.

And now he watches helplessly as a brutally beaten, stabbed Wesley is laid up in the ICU yet again, but this time in a coma. Limited brain activity. 

Prognosis….not well.

And it’s all because of her.

Xavier is a prideful man, but even he can admit he never saw this coming. Never anticipated Reigns would have the girl trained, never thought his weak ass daughter could be capable of something like this.

Capable of almost taking away his son. His heir. 

Xavier is seething and would shoot her dead right now if he could, but he has to be smart. Especially after tonight, which wasn’t an entire loss.

He snatches his phone, sending out a text. 

Xavier: I want that bitch DEAD.

Xavier: We’ll proceed with the plan.

Because while most will see Roman’s outburst as expected given Cody Rhodes was present and almost everyone knows the history there, Xavier knows better.

Xavier knows that Roman’s rage was primarily at the fact that Solana had been attacked, confirming what he suspected.

And he’ll give the bastard credit. From what he heard, Reigns did a great job masking his feelings for her, practically ignoring Solana the entire night. 

Never showing his hand.

But, he did.

He does care for her.

And just that thought brings a wicked smile to Xavier’s aged face. 

After all these years, the impossible has happened. 

Roman Reigns finally has a weakness.

________

translation: "i'd do anything for you."

[piratefishmama]

Fake it Till you Make It | Part 13

“Buckley residence”

“Melissa, my second favourite Buckley! Hi, it’s Steve, is Robin there?”

“Oh Steve! Yes, yes one moment, I’ll just—weren’t you on holiday with your parents aaaand—?” he’d been calling Eddie his ‘partner’ for the week leading up to the big holiday. Never dropping any names, but given he’d found a sort of second home at the Buckleys… they were relentless in finding out who he was dating.

Since it’d never be Robin.

He wasn’t falling for it, no matter how deep they’d been into flower power back in the day. If he came out, Robin would end up coming out in solidarity and he knew she wasn’t ready yet so—“Yep, calling from Chicago airport, bit of a time sensitive call” he wasn’t giving it up.

“Oop, I’ll grab her—” there was a scuffle on the line then a quick “ROBIN, STEVE’S ON THE PHONE” another quick scuffle later and suddenly

“Aren’t you supposed to be on a plane right now, Dingus?”

“I’m in Chicago! Just checkin in on my baaaaaby, how’s my little bun today? Any morning sickness yet?”

“Robin!!”

“Mom get off the phone!!”

“Hahaha I’m kidding Melissa! Can I talk to Robbie alone though?”

“Unbelievable, you kids are turning me grey.”

“You’re as beautiful as ever though!” The other line clicked off, and Robin’s snickering laughter was all that remained. “One day she’s gonna stay on just to call my bluff.”

“But that is not today, again, aren’t you supposed to be on a plane? What’s up?”

“…Okay so, hypothetically, if you were fake dating someone you… I dunno… maybe, sorta… click really well with, can laugh with, and maybe sorta like a little, would you—”

“Steven Leopold Harrington do you have a crush on your boyfriend?”

“Fake, fake boyfriend, Robbie, fake. And that isn’t my middle name.”

“You’re not DENYING it! It's not even been a DAY yet, Steve!”

“No, I’m not—well… I’d call it more an interest than a crush, but that’s why I’m calling you, what would you do?”

“Pine uselessly for years, you know this.”

“Got it, pine uselessly” He could do that. He was doing that already, sort of. He’d watched in squinty eyed rage while a newsstand cashier with a nose ring flirted with his fake boyfriend while he grabbed a drink to down during the wait between flights. It didn’t go anywhere, Eddie barely even noticed, but Steve noticed. Steve noticed everything. “You really should ask Vi—”

“NO. Listen Steve, as the kids would say, you have found an ‘ultimate cheat code’ to asking your crush out, listen closely now, don’t want you to miss it… you’re already dating him!”

“It’s fake though!” Luckily his parents were off showing Eddie a cool mural they found last time they flew through. No chance of them hearing him.

“So?! Just act like it’s real! It’s like a test, you have a week to see if you’re actually growing ooey gooeys for this guy, and at the end of it, you’ll know if you wanna keep him.” Brilliant in theory but one small hiccup

“What if he doesn’t want me at the end of the week?” The fact that he hadn’t had a solid date in forever before the scheme looming over his head and heart like a dark cloud of suffering.

“I will eat my own shoe. Trust me dingus, trust me. He’ll want you, just work that mysterious Harrington Charm I’ve heard so much about. You’re already half-way there, you get to kiss him already.”

“…Okay, it’s gotta be the real stinker shoe though, you know the one.”

“The skunk one?!”

“Yep. The skunk one.”

“But we were gonna use that on—” Kevin, they were gonna hide it in Kevin’s office after he refused every holiday request Robin put in for a month after she, very politely, shot him and his advances down, why they still had it was… a mystery. They kept forgetting to get rid of it. “Fine, the skunk one. I will eat the skunk shoe, that is how confident I am that Eddie will want you, now please go and spend time with your way cooler than you boyfriend before your parents turn him into a normie.”

“Miss you already.”

“Miss you more”

“Miss you most.”

“Hang up.”

“No you han—” she hung up, and Steve couldn’t help but laugh about it knowing that undoubtedly. She’d be laughing on her end too.

The second flight was much easier to get Eddie onto. In fact, after they spent the hour between flights milling around the terminal, Eddie led him down the gangway, hand in hand, demanding he hurry up or “they’ll leave without us, my precious little harlot!!” there was no rush, they were actually first in line at the gate in front of his own parents, whom Eddie beat to the front of the queue, dragging Steve with him, still ribbing him for the mile high club thing.

He was not going to live that down any time soon.

The flight, in theory would give him a lot of time to think though. Nine hours. In seats that were too far apart. His parents in the middle of the cabin in a semi-enclosed pod-like structure comprised of two seats and a desk between them which they both shared to work on some paperwork, and he and Eddie on opposite sides of the plane.

Which sucked. Because he couldn’t hold Eddie’s hand.

He couldn’t make sure Eddie was okay, and that alone really dug into his time to think about things, because his brain was quite stuck on the fact that Eddie was alone on the other side of the cabin likely going through it as the second flight excitement could only last so long, and that just wasn’t okay.

Eddie couldn’t even do anything to pass the time, he’d packed all but one of his notebooks in his checked luggage, Steve was pretty damn sure he'd go insane if he had to just sit there with nothing to do for a whole nine hours.

So, they teamed up. From opposite sides of the cabin, because somehow Eddie just understood what Steve wanted him to do without having to be told.

It took them a joint effort all of one hour into the flight to puppy-dog eye his parents into switching seats with them.

This allowed them to pick at each other’s ‘gourmet’ meals, Eddie stealing several of his steak fries, and Steve stealing both the last bite of his steak, and two of his orange slices, it allowed Eddie to ramble on about the D&D campaign he was plotting to send the kids through when they got back, allowed Steve to subtly plant the idea into Eddie's mind that maybe... maybe he might be interested in seeing what that looked like.

Maybe they could hold the first session at his place when his parents went away again. Plenty of room! He could watch for once, instead of ribbing Dustin for it and purposefully never getting the name of the game right.

All leading to them both settling in their reclining seats, wrapped up in blankets, facing each other's smiling faces, and falling into an incredibly easy food-coma slumber for the remainder of their flight.

Both wishing the seats were just... a little closer.

Part 15

[97keanu]

Valentine’s Day with the Keanuverse <3

John Wick: John would def start your day with breakfast in bed, and he is a wonderful cook, making everything you like and presenting it perfectly. He may take this time to give you a back massage while you enjoy your morning coffee, anything he can do to make you feel relaxed. Depending on the vibes of the day, he may have a lot planned out, like a surprise trip to your favorite destination, a spa day, dinner reservations, buying out a movie theatre just for the two of you(he loves if he can have you all to himself!). He may also opt for staying in, making you lunch, dinner, anything he can do to make your life perfect today(my boy’s love language is acts of service!). He will likely end the night with you in a bubble bath, enjoying each other’s company over an expensive glass of champagne, he’s not even afraid to do a face mask with you and really find some time to relax after everything. He is not letting ANYTHING come between you and him enjoying yourselves today. You end the night in bed with John lavishing your body with his hands, mouth, and whatever else he can to completely please you.

Types of presents include: Trips, cars, anything you want that he could ‘know a guy’ and make happen(remember that concert you really wanted that sold out?), spa day packages, handcrafted(but John is like, really good at it. Perhaps he tracks down one of your favorite childhood stories and restores the book for you!), shopping trips, homemade meals, anything you ask him for!

John Constantine: Let’s be honest, he probably forgot about Valentine’s Day, and is trying to work something out last minute. He’s running to the store to try to get flowers, but they’re already out, so he’s out doing something crazy like stealing from some poor soul’s grave. He’s trying to remember any hints you gave for what you wanted and barely remembering what your favorite candy is, which he luckily obtains. He calls up every restaurant in the city but all he gets is laughs when he tries. To make a reservation. Constantine is sooo disorganized for this, but the pressure hits him last minute because as much as he can be a callous asshole, he can’t have you thinking he thought you don’t deserve anything for Valentine’s Day. He finally finds somewhere that will let him buy takeout, and he takes home a bounty of last minute gifts and decor to his apartment where he quickly tries to plate the food and pass it off as his own.

In the end, after he picks you up and takes you back to his place, you enter to find his apartment set a glow with candles, soft music playing on his old busted CD player, and the smell of your favorite takeout. You are certain when you see the scene that he scrounged all this together, but at the same time, he looks at you with those dark puppy eyes, and you can’t help but be glad he remembered at all and tried. He gives you his slightly wilting bouquet of yellow and white flowers (claiming they were all out of red, but you suspect differently.) and you two have a lovely meal and a night in with some of your favorite feel good movies that Constantine would typically never sit down to watch with you. Even if it all seems small, you enjoy having some genuine time with him, and even getting to see him laugh and claim not to be teary eyed at some of the sappy scenes of the movie.

Types of presents include: Handmade, experience style gifts (perhaps taking you to his favorite secret spots!), flowers, all your favorite candies(that he could remember), maybe a chance to finally get to see his softer side.

Kevin Lomax: He’s going all out, he’s starting your day by sending breakfast to your door (all of your favorites of course!), sending dozens of flowers to your office just to make all the other girls jealous, sending a private car to pick you up too and from work, and leaving designer dress options and shoes in our bedroom for when you come home from work. You choose the dress you want to wear for the occasion, and your driver is taking you across town now to the fanciest restaurant in town. You meet him there, and Kevin looks absolutely dashing in his black suit and tie. He greets you with your first real gift for the night, a stunning piece of jewelry he knows you’ve been eyeing, then you two have a lovely dinner before going back to his apartment where you walk in to find the largest teddy bear you’ve ever seen holding more presents. He totally love bombs you for Valentine’s Day because giving gifts is on the top of his love languages, and you aren’t complaining. You two end the day in bed trying out some of the new toys he bought for the occasion.

Types of presents include: Perfumes, high end makeup, designer lingerie (for later of course), bondage gear (he loves making you his rope bunny <3), and anything you desire that money can buy. He may even surprise you with some heartfelt pillow talk when all is said and done.

Neo: Like Constantine, he is a bit forgetful of Valentine’s Day, but more in the sense of he has no idea what to get you and is absolutely horrible at deciding on a gift. He keeps trying to figure it out until it’s a week or two out and he’s found out he’s too late for reservations at all your favorite spots and on top of it there’s no way what he wanted to get you will ship in time, so he improvises. He sends flowers to your door and a note on where to meet him tonight. He doesn’t have much money so he hacks into wine and paint class via their online booking and you two end up having a great time trying to draw each other, despite his looking quite crude in form. He then takes you to a hotel reservation (that he also hacked his way into…) in the presidential suite, enjoying champagne and room service that is being charged to a card that doesn’t exist. You wonder how he got all this done, but you also know he has his ways, and don’t want to ruin the moment. You enjoy the room’s hot tub together while getting a little dirty trying to get clean. You have no idea how down to the wire he really was for making Valentine’s Day happen. He ends the night by gifting you a computer program that he made for you, and it’s awesome because it helps you with a daily task you’ve been irritated with. You two end up spending lovely quality time together, enjoying your time together and each other’s bodies no doubt!

Types of presents include: Handmade gifts, handcrafted technology (think: my boyfriend built me a computer!), hacked tech that would help in your everyday life, and he may even surprise you with something that you mentioned a long time ago(that he totally didn’t hack your search history to know about.)

Ted Logan: Ted is super sweet and caring for Valentine’s Day, surprisingly not forgetting that it exists in the first place. He ends up making you a handcrafted card and leaving it at your place of work with some hand picked daisies, all while saying it’s from a ‘secret admirer’ but Ted is the only person you know who would misspell ‘admirer’ in the first place. He doesn’t have a lot of money to get you anything fancy, but everything he does get you is heartfelt and well thought out. He picks you up after work and takes you to your favorite diner, then he finds the best spot in San Dimas to watch the stars together, tell jokes, and maybe even have a smoke sesh. You two end the night with munches being fulfilled by the nearby Circle K and a movie night at his apartment where he serenades you on his guitar between films. He buys all your favorite snacks for you and tries his best to make you feel really special. He is a words of affirmation guy so expect lots of sweet talk in your ear! He ends the night with his surprise gift, a locket with a picture of you two in it that he spent the last of his money on. He also gives you a handmade little notebook with all his favorite moments written in it with Polaroids of you two since you started dating!

Types of presents include: Handmade gifts(extremely arts and crafts, pink glitter glue ‘Will You Be My Valentine?’ Styled cards), your favorite candies, a small plush of some sort, picking wildflowers because he can’t afford the outrageous store prices, a song he wrote for you (performed alongside bill as his back up player), anything music related like making you a mixtape of your favorite tunes.

[lani-heart]

|| series masterlist || next // previously

parings -> ( eventually ) enhypen x reader genre -> soulmate au, fantasy au, angst warnings -> angst word count -> 3.1k

abstract -> a certain vampire needs advice... werewolf advice what would possibly go wrong?

y/n's perspective

“Okay, so tomorrow is the announcement. It will be at 8:10 in our homeroom classes. Remember to inform your teachers if you haven’t already about your attendance” I explained to the big group of council members.

We were currently in the auditorium after school since we had many members in our respected council. 

“We’ll start off with introductions, which aren't written in the official script so be prepared. I’ll be making sure tomorrow it's appropriate” Wonyoung said.

“It’s okay if you mess up. It's the first announcement as a whole. But please have respect for each other and their respected announcements' ' I said and they all nodded. 

“Okay, so Kevin and Jacob will be given the first chance to talk about human activities and concerns. Then we have Maki with the werewolves, remember to add resources also for the upcoming eclipse” Wonyoung reminded.

The eclipse would happen soon… where the werewolves were allowed out. I worried for K however, especially with him explaining how his wolf cries out for Sooha.

Speaking of Sooha… she was here, even though she wasn't a council member…

“Lastly, Sunghoon you will also have to talk about the eclipse” she asked and he looked shocked. “What, why?!” he said quite defensively. 

“Because werewolves may cause harm to vampires,” Wonyoung said in an obvious tone. “Oh… yeah you're right” he said and it was weird how defensive he was.

“Yes, Niki?” Wonyoung said as I saw the boy put his hand down.

“Why aren’t we announcing sports day yet?” he asked and the vice president scoffed. “Because it's too soon, we start off with– “ “Ooh sports day is always fun,” Sooha said interrupting Wonyoung who I felt started to use magic. 

“Because with the sudden merge, the schools are trying to determine the rules and regulations. Once we have them we’ll give the information out to the event planners” I said and Wonyoung calmed down a bit. 

“Please refrain from interrupting, especially if you're not a student council member–” I interrupted her with a sudden poke from my pen.

“Please refrain from interrupting… the acoustics here are loud”  she corrected and I saw Sooha sigh sadly… 

I felt bad for the girl…

“With the announcement will also be the complaints… Bright Sun Academy had a complaint anonymous box. We’re expecting alot of speciesism so please be aware of who is putting complaints in. Humans will all be allowed to give complaints to the human student council and vice versa to the other councils”  I explained.

“And with that, we should be done. The ones giving the announcements will meet up with me at the front of the office " Wonyoung" as everyone starts leaving. 

“I’m sorry!” I heard as I saw Sooha now next to me and Wonyoung. “I didn’t mean to interrupt you” she said and I smiled softly. “It's no problem,” I said and she nodded sadly. 

“Sooha, Jake is calling you” I see Sunghoon say. “Oh! Bye then, sorry again!” she said as she left quickly. 

“I have to go meet up with Eunchae” I said and Wonyoung nodded. “I’ll finish up” she said and I nodded as I bowed and muttered a bye to Sunghoon. 

“Ah! I wanted to talk to you…” he asked and I was shocked. I thought he wanted to talk to Wonyoung. In fact I never spoke to the vampire…

“Sure?” I asked and he asked me to follow him outside. 

“I know it's rude… and I don’t want to offend the witches but I wanted to know if I could ask for a favor?” he asked and I sighed. 

“It would depend. '' I said, quite annoyed now… he must've noticed since he looked nervous.

“What do you know about vampire-werewolf hybrids?” he asked and I was confused… I didn’t know what to say when he sighed.

“Nevermind–” “No.. I was just shocked. It's actually a very rare thing” I said and he nodded.

“Uhm it might depend. Some werewolves very few actually have said to survive a vampire bite and turn into a vampire-werewolf hybrid, while vampires and werewolves would sometimes rarely be soulmates” I explained and he nodded.

“In any occurrence, there's a possibility that the hybrid may feel more a connection to their werewolf side then their vampire side or the other way around” I said and he nodded.

“Do you know… uhm how a werewolf stops their transition on a full moon?” he asked while looking down… he was a hybrid.

“Witches often make a blessed object to stop the werewolf from transitioning and help them transition through will. However, it's not recommended since it's against nature '' I said and he nodded. 

“Even if the werewolf wanted it?” he asked and I nodded. “Often packs go against it. They’ll even kick out the werewolf if they do it. However, if you want–""I don’t need help!” he yelled and I smiled softly.

“If you know someone who needs help… I can make a necklace or another piece of jewelry into a blessing?” I asked and he nodded. 

“Do you know where I… someone could find more information?” he asked and I nodded. “The witches library has information about werewolf transition magic and the werewolf library has history” I said and he seemed to be conflicted. 

“I could ask K to check one out? I could also check out one of the magic books?” I asked and he looked at me shocked. “Really?” he asked and I nodded.

“I don’t like how closed off the libraries are… I’m actually trying to get it open to anyone so everyone can be more educated” I said and he smiled softly. “Thank you… if it doesn’t trouble you I would really like to borrow those–” “Sunghoon! Heeseung is– Oh! y/n!” Sooha said and I smiled softly and bowed. 

“I’ll give the books to you, tomorrow” I said and he nodded. “Oh? What books?” she asked and Sunghoon looked scared to say anything… “It's some event planning books that the werewolves and witches are collaborating with” I said and she nodded. 

“I can't wait for the first event where everyone can do it!” she said and I smiled. “I’m sure, Sunghoon and the rest of the vampire council have amazing ideas” I praised. I noticed Sunghoon’s deadpan almost guilty stare. 

“I’ll see you tomorrow, I need to meet up with my roommate” 

sunghoon’s perspective

I didn't think y/n was so nice… so understanding.

She knew… she wasn’t stupid. She knows I'm a vampire-werewolf hybrid… but she was gonna help me.

“I didn’t know you talked to y/n?” Sooha asked… in reality I didn't want to ask her for help but she’s the only witch who would help me.

I didn’t have to pull the soulmate card… but she was nice. A Lot nicer than I thought she’d be, especially with Sooha crying her eyes out. 

I hated how loud Solon was… he kept calling out to talk to y/n but I like Sooha. I didn’t want to hurt her like heeseung did… but I just didn’t need to touch her. 

It made me wonder that if she knew I was her soulmate would she still help me?

“Sunghoon?” she snapped me out of my thoughts. 

“Hmm? I met her through student council but I don’t really talk to her '' I said and she smiled softly. “I wish she'd be my friend… I wanted to make more friends besides you guys” she said and I sighed… I sometimes felt guilty for choosing sides.

But I can’t help my feelings for Sooha.

I woke up early and had the script in my hands or else Wonyoung would kill me. 

“Sunghoon!” I heard her yell quite aggressively. “Who do you think you are?! Asking y/n for help? Really?!” she said and I sighed. 

Did she know?

“Whatever… she said it was a secret to whatever you asked of her but she told me to give you this,” she said as she handed me a backpack. 

It had books in it about werewolves… I definitely had to thank her later.

Wonyoung told us how everything worked exactly at 8:10 a theme started playing and we all introduced and announced everything ending at 8:30.

Everything went a lot better than I assumed. It's a little weird getting along with other species since it's not really something that happens often but it wasn’t bad.

We all went to class afterwards. I took the chance to get out of the homeroom and read the books. 

They had a lot of information I didn't know… like the culture and history of witches and werewolves. “You have class” I heard as I saw Heeseung in front of me.

“I know but–” “You have class Sung Hoon, you're in the council you shouldn't be skipping. Jungwon will be mad” he said and I nodded. 

“How’d you get witch and werewolf books?” he asked and I didn’t know what to say… would he be mad? “I asked y/n” I said and his eyes widened. “She knows–” “No… but she's the only one who can help. I can just pull out the soulmate card if anything, "I explained and he scoffed. 

“She’d hate you if she knew you were also her soulmate” he said and I sighed. That made my wolf sad.

“Just don’t ruin her relationship with Sunoo and Jungwon. They genuinely seem to like her… just because I like Sooha doesn’t mean I want to see her upset” he confessed and I nodded.

What the younger guys didn't know was that Heeseung did feel guilty. 

He confronted her at the party when she said she didn’t know why she was so insistent in the soulmate bond. She also said she’d never forgive him and she’d hate him forever…

Heeseung was hurt but decided it was for the best. Jake assumed the worst of her and thought she was mean to Sooha on purpose… Jay seemed conflicted, he confessed to wanting to meet y/n but not being romantic with her. 

I bumped into someone and I felt my body freeze. 

“y/n!” I was shocked and her eyes widened. “You are…” she couldn't finish her sentence. 

I rushed to stand up and her but she slapped my hand away and stood up before walking away from me. 

“Fuck…” I muttered. “Sunghoon?” I heard as I saw Heeseung get out the door. I soon felt a pang on my chest and I would’ve fallen if Heeseung didn’t help me up. 

“She bumped into me… we touched” I said and he sighed. “Is this how it felt when you rejected her?” I asked and he sighed. 

“I’ll tell the teachers you’re sick” he said and I nodded. I felt tears form in my eyes… Why did it hurt so much?

Why was I regretting everything?

Why won’t he shut up?!

“Sunghoon?” I heard as I saw the boys rush into our dorm. “Sunghoon!!” I heard as I saw Sooha. I couldn’t look at her… “Hey–” she was about to touch my face when I stood up abruptly only to fall. 

“What's going on?” she asked and I felt tears fall down my cheeks. “Why does it hurt so much? Jungwon, isn't this bad for you?” I asked and he nodded. 

“It was… it hurts alot” he said as he helped me up. 

“What's going on?” Sooha asked. “He was rejected by his soulmate” Sunoo said and I saw a glint of amusement in him… I deserved it.

“By whom?!” she asked and I couldn't control my body from sobbing. “y/n” Sunoo answered. “You’re also her soulmate? Why’d she reject you?” she asked me and I couldn’t handle her being her. 

“Sooha, you should go to class,” Heeseung said and she looked upset. “But Sunghoon is–” “Sooha, he was rejected because of the relationship you have with Sunghoon '' Jungwon said and her eyes widened. 

“But we don’t like each other” she said and I was indirectly rejected by her but I didn’t care. I was blinded by my soulmate bond being broken. 

“It hurts” I said and I felt so much pain. 

“He’s shifting!” Heesueng said.

y/n… I think I need you to save me.

y/n’s perspective

He asks me to help him? He was my soulmate?! 

I couldn’t be mad at Sunoo and Jungwon since they didn’t want to say anything to hurt me but how many of them were my soulmates?

“y/n!” I saw Jungwon in the crowd of people now in front of me. “Jungwon? Are you okay?” I asked and he smiled softly. 

“Sunghoon really needs help. His wolf is forcing a transition” he said and I felt my eyes widen. “I don’t know about that… ask EJ or K–” “you being there will help plenty” he said and I was confused as to why a rejection was affecting him so much. 

I agreed, feeling like it was my responsibility since I did trigger it.

He took me outside to the woods where I saw the five of them and Sooha surrounding a blue wolf. The wolf must've noticed me since he looked at me with puppy eyes. 

“y/n, there's nothing between me and Sunghoon–'' I didn’t listen to her, instead I looked at Heeseung, who didn't look at me, knowing exactly why I rejected him.

“What I'm gonna do is gonna hurt him alot” I said and they looked at me worriedly. 

“His wolf is going through a spiral in which they’re both at odds. If a wolf forces a transition it's probably because the other side of him still hasn’t accepted him as a part of himself. I’m gonna need to safely give his wolf control.” I explained and they nodded. 

“Why can’t you give Sung Hoon control?” Jake asked and she sighed. “His wolf needs to be let out… i'm guessing he's never allowed that '' I said and they nodded.

I took out the pin I carried when I realized a detail. 

“I’m gonna need everyone to leave” I said and they looked at me confused. 

“I’ma  blood witch… you're vampires' ' I said and they nodded. “Please be careful with him, '' Heeseung said and I nodded.

They left when I pricked my finger and his paw causing him to yelp.

He whined and tried to lick my wound but I smeared the blood as I muttered a spell. It would temporarily make sunghoon unconscious and his wolf would have full control.

When I heard  him stop whining, he now stood in front of me. He was a very beautiful wolf with almost blue fur in the sun. 

I stood up, planning on leaving when he suddenly jumped on me, almost knocking me over as he cried. 

“Go, enjoy being in control. You don’t know when you’ll be out again. He seemed to refuse me however. “I need to go back, maybe we’ll meet again. '' I said, knowing we probably won't…

He seemed to understand as he watched me leave to the front entrance where the vampires were. 

“Are you hurt?! You smell like blood!” Jungwon rushed and I smiled. “I’m fine, you’ll want to keep your distance though” I said and he nodded. 

“How is he?” Jay asked and I sighed. “I gave his wolf control, he should be  back to normal tonight. I would suggest finding him but don’t leave campus. He’s a wolf, so he might attack you. Otherwise tell his teachers about it and he’ll be excused for today and tomorrow.” I explained and they nodded. 

“y/n, are you gonna accept him?” Sooha asked me and I shook my head. 

“You don’t know the reason why I rejected him. It’s my business Sooha, please respect it” 

After a long day of classes and council work I was walking out the council room when I saw Heeseung. 

“His wolf will be out of control. It was this morning when you rejected him” he said. “You’re a hypocrite. I’m not gonna accept him, I know you, Jake, Jay, and Sunghoon like Sooha. I know all of you are my soulmates and I'll tell you right now I'll reject the four of you.  I was skeptical but now seeing how it wasn’t a coincidence that I was soulmates with Sunghoon makes it clear. Tell him to give back the books to K or Wonyoung” I said as I was gonna walk away when he didn’t give up. 

“You can’t reject–” “Why can’t I? He should be happy, he has a chance with Sooha” I said bitterly and I would’ve ignored him if he didn’t pin me against the wall, trapping me. 

“Get off” I said and he shook his head. “Did it hurt when I rejected you?” he asked and I scoffed.

“I couldn’t do magic for a week. I would cry and I felt pain in my chest, but you get over it.” I said and I was confused as to why he cared so much all of a sudden. He was a jerk in the beginning so why now?

“Sunghoon is gonna need you… his wolf will–” “No… I can’t” I said as I pricked his arm making him pull back and wince. 

“Stay away from me” 

sunghoon’s perspective

I felt weak… the moonlight  was so bright in the forest. 

I felt like I was asleep for hours,  what happened?

Oh yeah… y/n rejected me. It was for the best, I have a better chance with Sooha. I just had to ignore my wolf’s insistent crying and begging, he was making my chest hurt. 

“I found him!” I heard a familiar voice. I smiled softly, “Hi, Sooha” I said and she looked worried, and sad?

“I’m sorry” she said and I shook my head. I wiped away her  tears. “Why?” I asked. “y/n… I tried explaining to her but she doesn’t want to accept you. I don’t want her to think badly of me or you because she thinks we’re together” she said with tears running down her cheeks. 

“Don’t worry, okay?” I asked and she sniffled. 

“She hates you Sunghoon, like me”  I heard in my head… Heeseung?

“She won’t help you anymore… she said to ask Roverfield for any help but she won’t offer her services anymore” he said as I saw them all. 

“She has to help me, i’m her soul–” “You really think that’ll change her mind?” Sunoo asked and I knew he was right. 

“Are you okay?” Jake asked and I wanted to say yes…

So why did I feel empty?

taglist -> @sunus-sun @loumin908 @on-1ce @shinkenprincess-oh @b-a-nshee-blog @bnnyniky @sakuxxi @chiiiiiiiiis @cncreams @pre1ttyies

please don't be a silent reader !! reblog, comment, and like <3

[fizzing-imagines]

Teen Pregnancy Series | Gareth Emerson x Cheerleader! Reader

Notes: I watched too much 16 and pregnant so here u go. This is very out of canon and storyline, but I like it regardless. Please read the note I made about the series

Warnings: Teen Pregnancy, labour scene at the end

Words: 3k

"We need to talk." You simply walked into his house, no care for the possibility of his family being around. Lucky him, they weren't. "Princess, what's wrong?", Gareth asked in a worried tone. The words 'We need to talk' were never good. He hurried after you as you made a beeline to his room upstairs. "Princess, come on." Once both of you were in his room, you closed the door and rummaged around in your bag. He got more nervous by the second, knowing you had a doctors appointment for your constant nausea and headaches. What if it was something serious and not just a stomach bug?

There sure was a bug in your stomach; you handed him a sonogram. He was confused as he tried to see something on the picture. No, not a chance. "What am I looking at?"

"Our babies"

His head shot up, eyes wide. "Our baby?", he asked to confirm. "No, babies. Plural." Gareth looked back at the picture in his hands. "I already told my parents that I'm keeping them, and they're on board with it." Your boyfriend sat down on his bed to take in the information, sonogram in hand. It wasn't until then that you realized how many facts you were dumping on him without giving him a chance to process them. "I think you need a minute...", you said before sitting down next to him. Gareth hummed in agreement. "Are you okay?"

"Where exactly do I see babies in this.", he asked, referring to the sonogram. It was a bit of a surprising question. "Well, you see that white bean-shaped thing? That's baby one.", you explained. "And there's baby two." You pointed at the other bean-shaped figure. He laughed a bit. "Two little beans.", Gareth mumbled. You looked at him with a small smile. "Our two little beans." His head turned to you, followed by a kiss on your cheek. "We'll do it together. Maybe a bit earlier than planned, but it's gonna be fine."

His parents were a bit mad at first, but came around soon enough. Family movie nights with both of your families became a weekly thing now. Both your parents loved to be around each other, and got more excited to be grandparents each day.

"Gare, I'm starting to show.", you said to your boyfriend as you got ready for bed. The twins were 16 weeks along and you were undoubtedly starting to grow a baby belly. He looked up from whatever he was fiddling with and immediately looked at your stomach. "I can see it.", he excitedly said as he walked over. Gareth crouched down in front of your body, taking the perfect height to look at your stomach. "You're growing so fast, my little beans.", he cooed at your stomach before giving it a kiss. You giggled at his antics. "Your mama is doing so great, isn't she?" Another kiss. Your hand stroked through his hair as he kept talking to and kissing your baby bump.

"Appointments next week. To find out the gender.", you said. He looked up at you. "We'll go together.", your boyfriend replied. "It's the same day as your campaign. I can tell you afterwards."

He'd be dammed if he wouldn't be there to find out your babies genders.

"Can we move the campaign?", Gareth asked shamelessly. There were shocked looks all around at his question. "Are you insane?", Jeff said, more to call him dumb than actually ask him. Eddie watched the three bicker about postponing before finally speaking up. "Gareth, we have rules here. We don't postpone.", he said very firmly. He let out an annoyed huff. "Then I can't be there, my girlfriend has a doctors appointment." Kevin and Jeff laughed. "What, she needs you to hold her hand?", Kevin mocked him.

Gareth hasn't told them you're pregnant yet, and you haven't told the cheer squad. You did tell them that you couldn't do it anymore, but blamed it on a knee injury. The relationship with Gareth already took a blow to your reputation, one you gladly took, but you didn't know how to announce the pregnancy without becoming the victim of bullying. But being pregnant with twins, there was very little time left until the oversized hoodies wouldn't cover your growing stomach anymore.

"Can I sit here?" Suddenly, you were standing behind Gareth. He gave you a confused look, but moved to make space for you. "Maybe she can tell us why Gareth suddenly doesn't have time anymore.", Kevin said in an annoyed tone. He never liked you and actually hoped you and Gareth would break up. "I can't deal with your shit right now, Kevin." You shot him a glare while sitting down. "Everything okay?", Gareth asked after giving you a kiss on your temple. "Don't feel like sitting with the others.", you said, referring to the cheerleaders and basketball players. Kevin scoffed, making you even more mad. "What's your problem?", you snapped at him. Gareth put his hand on your lower back in a failing attempt to calm you down. "You're my problem.", he replied. A scoff left your mouth, setting all the pregnant hormones into action.

"I have been nothing but nice to you, even before I was with Gareth! I'm sorry that my friends are mean to you, but that has nothing to do with me!", you yelled at him. The cheer squad and basketball team heard and watched as you got up from your seat to yell some more. "But no, it's all about you and what you think! Well, guess what, you can go fuck yourself. And I'm so sorry for interrupting your secret nerd meeting because I wanted to see my boyfriend. Fucking nerd asshole." You turned on your heel to walk away, only to be greeted by two of your friends. "There she is again.", they said happily as they took your hands and led you to their table.

"I really don't care if I was too mean.", you said to your father while the two of you sat on the couch. You were in low sweatpants and a croptop, letting your pregnancy belly fully hang out. At 18 weeks, there was no denying of the belly being there at this point. "Calling him a nerd is a bit too much, isn't it?", he asked you, trying to find reason. "Maybe. I don't know.", you admitted. There were footsteps behind you, but you assumed it was your mother. "But he's such a dick.", you continued.

"Sorry.", you heard a familiar voice behind you. As you looked behind you, you saw Gareth, Eddie, Jeff and Kevin. It was Kevin who let out the small apology. "Gareth, what the fuck?!", you yelled before covering your stomach with a pillow. "No need to hide it, I told them.", your boyfriend said. With a sigh, you got up from the couch. Both your parents left the room for privacy, leaving you to yourself. "What do you want?", you asked them in an annoyed tone. "We moved the campaign.", Eddie said. "It's a day earlier. Least we could do." It was honestly an unbelievable thing to you; they never re-schedule campaigns. "And we made this. As an apology." Kevin handed you two baby onesies, one white and one black, with the Corroded Coffin logo on it. "I didn't know which colour you'd like more.", Kevin admitted. As you looked at them, you got emotional. "I...wow...", you mumbled. Gareth took your hand and pulled you closer to him. "I only told them that you're pregnant. Not the other thing." You chuckled a bit. "Fitting that you made two onesies." The three looked very confused, although Eddie at least put the pieces together. "It's twins. Two little beans.", you said with a wide grin before looking at Kevin. "I'm sorry. You're an absolute cunt, but I shouldn't have called you a nerd." Laughter filled the room at your words. "I have been a dick, you're right.", he agreed. "I've never seen Gareth this happy. I'm sorry, I got too judgemental." You smiled at him and nodded a bit. "I'm gonna start showing off the bump. So if I could sit with you, that would be a start."

"We can do that."

"Gareth said you like eggs right now.", Kevin said as he handed you a ziploc bag with three boiled eggs in them. A wide grin spread across your face as you took the bag. "Thank you. I've been craving them all day." Happily, you started peeling the eggs. All three gave you an expectant look, waiting for you to tell the genders. You had your mouth full as you looked up.

"Girls. Both of them.", Gareth replied for you. He was grinning like a cheshire cat. You stopped wearing oversized clothes and got back into your pretty dresses to show off your bump. Most people took it surprisingly well, some of your friends even asked if they could touch your belly. Gareth had the privilege of being able to constantly touch your stomach, feeling the twins move around and kick.

"You know, Eda would be a great name for a girl.", Eddie said with a grin. You laughed a bit at the suggestion. "That's a great idea, but we have names picked out already.", Gareth said proudly. The three gave him another expectant look, but you dismissed them. "You'll find out once they're here.", you said with a smile.

They really didn't need to know that you picked the names after the movie they were conceived to. At least not know.

"Cribs go next to each other.", you said to Eddie as he finished building up the second one. Eddie volunteered to help Gareth move into your parents home and put up the nursery. Your boyfriend moving into your parents home was a given, considering he had two little sisters who caused mayhem and no rooms left. Your parents, on the other hand had a guest room that was unused, and your room was big enough for the both of you. At 24 weeks, with a now huge bump, Gareth didn't let you do any of the heavy lifting or building. The only thing he let you to was decorate the room and paint the walls. Against his best wishes, you gave the twins a princess themed nursery. Your only mistake was to put their names on the wall. Pink letters that read 'Maria & Frieda' greeted him once he arrived and spoiled the surprise of telling him when the twins were there.

"Twins of Evil?", Eddie asked with a grin once he put the crib into place, referring to the names. You nodded your head yes with a small laugh. "Seemed...fitting." There was some irony of getting pregnant with twin girls when they're conceived during Twins Of Evil. Gareth came into the room with parts of the bookshelf you picked for the nursery. "Babe, is everything you bought pink?", he asked as he looked at the parts. You laughed a bit at his question. "There's also two pink rocking chairs and a pink changing table." Gareth looked around the room, sighted and got onto building again. "I'll get the books and Hello Kitty plushies."

"The what now?"

"Did we really think this through?", you sobbed out while walking up and down the room you shared with Gareth. "I'll be walking the stage with a huge fucking belly. I'll look like a cowboy!"

You went dress shopping for your graduation today. Nothing you liked fit, and nothing that fit you liked. "I don't wanna wear a stupid suit. I've been dreaming of my graduation dress since I was six!" He listened to you talk and cry, seeing no way to calm you. "Why did you have to put these stupid babies in me!? It's ruining everything!" Finally, Gareth got up to pull you into a hug. "Hey, baby, I'm sorry." He didn't see this as entirely his fault, but disagreeing with you will make everything worse. "We'll find you a dress. I'll drive to Indianapolis with you, okay? Tomorrow, we'll go and get your favourite breakfast and we'll find you a beautiful dress." He whiped the tears from your eyes and placed a kiss on your forehead. "Okay...", you mumbled.

Next morning, the two of you got up bright and early to drive to Indianapolis. After a delicious breakfast, you started walking from store to store, looking at and trying on dresses. Four stores later, you finally found the one. A baby pink dress with a ruffled skirt, flounce sleeves and a sparkly top. It hugged your belly perfectly, and even the saleswoman was very kind, considering your situation. A few tears were shed once you tried on the dress. "You look amazing.", Gareth whispered into your ear as he held you through your tears. And you got even more lucky when you found the perfect shoes to go along with it. Overall, your day was more than perfect.

Until you were laying in bed and started wheeping again. "I called the babies stupid!", you cried out when Gareth asked you what was wrong.

Gareth and your family went to lunch together after the graduation ceremony. During lunch, Gareth took you outside to 'take a breather', but he had a bigger plan in mind. "I love you and our girls very much.", he said as he took his hands into yours. "And I'm so excited to spend my life with all three of you." He reached into his backpocket and pulled out a small velvet box. "It's really stereotypical, and I know we're still young, but if we're having babies together I might as well ask you, and-" You cut him off with a kiss. "I do.", you whispered against his lips. "I-I didn't even get to kneel.", he said. You giggled a bit. "No need to." He opened the box, revealing a beautiful rose quartz ring that he put on your finger.

"I love you.", he said before leaning into another kiss.

"Eddie, where the fuck is Gareth!?", you yelled through the house. It must've rung in his ear. The band was over for practice while you were napping on the couch, but you were awoken by very sudden and strong contractions. "They went to the store! What is it?!" He saw you hunched over the back of the couch and put two and two together. Eddie was the only one in the house, with your parents at work and Gareth now gone for snacks with the others. "Eddie, I have to go to the hospital right now.", you cried out in pain. "Please drive me, they're not gonna wait." He started panicking, but still grabbed his keys and somehow found your hospital bag in your closet. "Okay, come on...fuck, why me?"

He went well beyond the speed limit to get you into the hospital. Once you were with the doctors, Eddie called your landline until Gareth was finally back home and could pick up. You swore you heard him scream into the phone all the way down the hallway.

"They're not waiting, we have to get you in the delivery room now.", your nurse said as she checked you. "Is there anyone else you can take with you?" Your first and only throught was Eddie, but he was screaming for the entire car ride. "No, it's fine.", you groaned. "He'll make it."

Gareth came bursting through the door two minutes later, just as you were prepared for the delivery. "I'm so sorry baby, I was getting you twizzlers.", he apologised before giving you a kiss on the head.

"It's fine. But they're just as impatient as you are."

A few short hours later, Maria and Frieda were born. They were healthy, tiny and adorable. While you were taking a nap, Gareth had both girls sleeping in his arms, watching his kids closely. They definetly had some brown hair like him, but your nose. And they looked exactly the same. Gareth never felt as contempt as he did right now, and it was all thanks to you.

He put them back in their hospital beds so he could unpack your bag; the stuffed animal he gifted you on your first date, your favourite blanket, and he put the twizzlers on your nightstand.

An hour later, you woke up. He was right by your side, holding your hand and smiling. "Hey.", you mumbled in a sleepy tone. "Hi.", Gareth said back before giving you a kiss on the cheek. The first thing you did was look over at your girls, who were still sleeping. Both were tiny, but adorable with small buttons noses. One of the was snorring a bit as she slept. Tears dwelled in your eyes as you saw them. "They're so cute.", you said under tears. Gareth smiled at you while whiping the tears from your eyes.

Right now, everything was perfect.

"Here's Corroded Coffins youngest fans ever.", you said happily as you brought the girls downstairs to meet the boys. Frieda was wearing the white onesie Kevin gave you, Maria the black one. You've never seen them melt as fast as they did at that very moment. Jeff held Maria while Kevin held Frieda. Eddie seemed too nervous to hold them just yet. But he did say "They're so small." as he looked at Frieda in Jeff's arms. "Six pounds, 17 inches.", you said. Maria cooed in Kevin's arms and looked around the room. She didn't fuss once, in fact she seemed very happy in her position. "I think she likes you.", you said to Kevin as she held onto his shirt. Meanwhile, Frieda started crying in Jeff's arms. "Alright, that was that.", Gareth said as he recovered his daughter from Jeff. She calmed down immediately. "Maybe you just smell, dude.", Eddie said with a laugh. Jeff didn't seem too bothered, but also not too happy. "You hold her if you know so much.", he said to his friend. Gareth placed Frieda in Eddie's arms, where she not only remained calm but also fell asleep.

"It's like with cats. Now you gotta stay there until she wakes up."

[themoonweaversden]

Messeges that were found so far: STOD EHT TCENNOC (spoilers)

This is just to collect all the codes that you can type in in thisisnotawebsitedotcom.com and their effects only (please click images for better quality)

I am so sorry if the transcripts in these are't the best, it's A LOT and my mind doesn't understand what's writing anymore

Masterpost with all messeges / codes

Transcript:

"LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

Have you ever heard of Orchard Lake, Kansas? Chances are you haven’t. It was erased from every map, book, and historical record, and the US Government’s official position on it is “stop calling us or we’ll send a drone to your house.” (I learned this the hard way.) But if you drive to the exact latitude and longitude of [REDACTED] you’ll see bullet casings, faded billboards, and bow ties strewn across the desert sands.

That’s because Orchard Lake had another name before it was wiped off the record: BillVille.

CHAPTER 3: BillVille The First Cult In History That Was Right

[image]

FIG A: A tumbillweed

As a historian of esoteric religions, I thought I’d discovered the strangest sects America had yet to offer (see “Chapter 3: Kevin’s Gate”) but that all changed when I found the following items tucked away in an old trunk in an estate sale on the outskirts of Bootstrap, Missouri."

Transcript:

"LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

"3/24/1957

Mother, I have the most wonderful news! Remember when you said I should stop being “such a follower” and finally think for myself? Well—turns out you were right! I’ve decided to stop following Elvis’ tour bus from state to state and instead I’ve made the exciting life decision to sell all my possessions to buy a one-way ticket to [REDACTED] and marry 138 of my new best friends! We’ve discovered the eternal secrets of the Universe, and golly it feels keen! For the first time in my life, I am happy!

Remember reality is an illusion, the Universe is a hologram, buy gold, and bye forever!

Your daughter, Shelter Martha Jones Starshine Cipherwife

P.S. You’ve just gotta check out this neato pamphlet!"

FIG B: Letter and pamphlet advertising “Ciphertology.” Was found along with pins, buttons, ephemera. Smells like formaldehyde."

Transcript:

"LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

After reading this pamphlet, I became obsessed. Who were the Ciphertologists?

It seems in 1952 a failed travelling snake oil salesman “Silas Birchtree” was hiding from creditors when he choked on a coin he was flipping and died. Then, remarkably, the next day, he was seen alive. His posture, his smile, the pallor of his skin had all changed. It was as if another man entirely was wearing Silas like a suit. Whatever caused this transformation, the new Silas hit Orchard Lake, Kansas like a comet.

[TRANSCRIPT, FIRST AUDIO RECORDING FOUND OF SILAS BIRCHTREE GIVING A SPEECH IN THE TOWN SQUARE OF ORCHARD LAKE, KANSAS]

“Say, folks, gather round, thank you ma’am, spit out that gum, junior. My names Silas Birchtree, and I was just passing through when I noticed a very pressing problem: This town only has three wells! Well, well, well, that won’t hold water! (townsfolk laugh) But seriously plasma bags, if you’re dim enough to laugh at that tripe then you’re going to love what I’m about to shove down your throats: The secrets of the universe! I may look like an meat automoton but I was recently granted otherworldly insight into the nature of reality by an all-seeing eye named Bill Cipher. You have primal needs for chaos that are being repressed! Destroying is a form of creating! Assert your will in defiance of entropy! Punch through the throats of your oppressors and baptize yourself in their blood! Doesn’t that sound swell? Yes I said swell, and that rhymes with L, and that stands for “Let me Marry All Your Wives!”

-Silas Birchtree, 1952

It didn’t seem to matter what Silas said, folks were mesmerized by his rambling stream of consciousness diatribes. It wasn’t long before he became local news."

Treanscript:

"THE ORCHARD LAKE CORNHUSK "A suitable distraction from your toils." June 18, 1952 | 5 CENTS

CULT COMES TO TOWN Fans of Cults Pleased, Cult Skeptics Skeptical

Two things are on the rise this week in Orchard Lake! The sweet, sweet corn-bread cooling in Mrs. Butternubbins windowsill, and the terrifying cult that threatens to tear our town asunder. And asunder is one of the worst things you can be torn! Springing forth seemingly overnight, these bow-tie wearing brainwashees call themselves the Ciphertologists, and they answer to one man, the charismatic and extremely jaundiced Silas BirchTree. Town sentiment is divided as to whether this new religion can be trusted, but all agree this seems to be the most significant event in our town since a bat fell in the deep fryer at the waffle house. We spoke to townsfolk to gauge the local sentiment.

...WHAT THE PEOPLE SAY...

Darla Laudanum, Housewife: "Well, I don’t see what the big fuss is! Everyone’s entitled to their opinions, and Silas is no different. Why, I remember when everyone was worried that “Hula Hoops” were going to turn our children into Communists. But we only had to report 3 children!"

Gus Gunderson, Painter: "I ‘spose he’s got a funny way of talkin’, shore ‘nuff, but he promised me I’d live forever on my own moon, which beats my current job at the paint store. He also said he’d teach me to explode people with my mind. My mother ‘n law had better watch out!"

Madeline Dixon, Teenager: "He’s fine, I guess. It’s not like I replaced the picture of James Dean in my locket with him or anything. What? No you can’t look inside the locket, this is a personal locket!"

Emmaline Butternubbins, Spoilsport: "I’m telling you! He’s a human corpse puppeteered by a space triangle and he’s come to build an unholy astral pyramid from mortal realm beyond mortal understanding! Gather up your swords and arrows, let us slay the beast in mans form before he slays us!"

Can You "Dig It?" Hey Daddio! Are you hoppin mad about the piles of youth that are buckling your Chevy’s pad to the winner? Dig this jive! A keen new shovel that all the hep cats are using to flip those big Ricks right out of the sock hop! Man, you know what it is called!

“HIPPADDY RENZADDY’S SUPER-KEENHOOT SCOOP!”

It’s me, “Hip Daddy” Renzaddy! 50 years ago my great grandpappy Renzaddy toppled a pile of stones to death to avenge his death! The eternal war on man’s sin rages on!

5 CENTS OFF!

Teen Accused of "Rocking Around the Clock," Faces Trial ... (PG 3) Joseph McCarthy Arrests Suspicious Pez Dispenser (PG 5)"

Trascript:

"PAGE 2 THE ORCHARD LAKE CORNHUSK, JUNE 18, 1952 INTERVIEW WITH A PROPHET

Our lead reporter Welton Danforth sat down with the enigmatic leader to gain some insight into his holy mission. When they sat down to speak, the controversial religious leader was staring at his hands laughing as he wiggled his fingers.

Silas: Fingers! Wow, there’s just so many of these things! How do you keep track? Hey could someone get me a swig of formaldehyde?

Welton: Good evening. I have never seen a man open his eyes as wide as yours before. What exactly is going on with your face?

Silas: My face is normal! Next question!

Welton: (laughing) Well there’s that charm I’ve heard so much about. Move over, Johnny Carson! Tell me, how do you respond to accusations that the Ciphertologists are a cult?

Silas: Yes!

Welton: So you don’t deny it?

Silas: Look slick, everyone believes in something they can’t prove. Football players believe in “points.” Cops believe in “laws.” Priests believe in “sin.” But show me a law, a point, a sin. You can’t, they’re just ideas. So if you’re going to follow something invisible, why not follow the invisible Triangle that will give you your own planet and crush your enemies into a small screaming cube.

Welton: You’re awfully quick with a turn of phrase, but many others with silver tongues have claimed to be the messiah. What makes you any different?

Silas: Fair point! You know, you’re very perceptive. Has your wife told you that lately?

Welton: (pause) No. No… Janet has not. We are… going through a rough patch.

Silas: Must be hard. All those long nights on the couch, wondering what went wrong.

Welton: Yes… but, how did you know all that?

Silas: I know lots of things, Jack! And I know that when you die at 72 from a goose crashing into your head on a roller coaster, your last thought is gonna be that you wasted your life interviewing hick farmers instead of becoming that great novelist you always dreamed of being! That unfinished novel in your desk drawer…

Welton: …The Reporter Who Went To Mars?

Silas: It could be the greatest book of all time. But you’ll need someone to help you reach your full potential. I think I know a guy! By the way, I’ll need 1,000 dollars immediately.

Welton: Can I give you my watch as a down payment?

Silas: Fine, but only because I like you. Anyway, where were we? Oh right! I was interviewing you. Tell me, how long have you been a Ciphertologist?

Welton: Well, I suppose as of 5 seconds ago, but it already feels like much longer, Mr. Birchtree.

Silas: Please, call me “My Lord And Master.”

Welton: Yes, My Lord and Master. Do you have anything else to add before you go?

Silas: Only this, and I mean it sincerely: HAHAHA-HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA (cont’d)"

Transcript:

"LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

[2 images]

Within a month, The Ciphertologists had taken City Hall, renamed Orchard Lake "BillVille" and began stockpiling weapons, human teeth, and multi-colored ball-pit balls from burger restaurants. Townsfolk began shaving their heads and inhaling helium to match the pitch of their leader's shrill charismatic voice, and would participate in "Dream-Ins" inviting Silas's muse "Bill Cipher" to "possess" of up to 30 of them at once, at which point they would often laugh in unison for hours. Construction began of the "Very Normal Giant Metal Portal" in the desert. Travel was banned coming in and out, even for medical emergencies since, as Silas explained, "pain is hilarious!" They began to expand, knocking on doors to spread "The Bad News."

[image]

FIG C: It was pretty easy to spot a Ciphertologist. Can you see what makes them stand out? That's right - their enthusiastic smiles!

[image]

FIG D: The "Golden Bastard" apple, grown only by Ciphertologists, reportedly "screamed" when you ate it."

Transcript: (this one is really weird to trascribe, so sorry if it's difficult to understand)

"THERE’S ONE “EYE” IN TEAM! Can you find it?

In Ciphertology, we encourage you to express your individuality, just like Silas does! That means strict conformity to his exact wardrobe, or else being sent to “The Hole.” You won’t like the hole!

KEEP AN EYE OPEN!

SHAVE A SPOT FOR BILL TO ENTER!

POSTURE

TUCK YOUR SHIRT IN! Order is a Trojan horse for chaos!

GREASE YOUR SHOES! Are you done? ADD MORE GREASE! And MORE!

(Image of two people in matching outfits doing Ciphertologist poses)

Pocket full of yummy glass!

Not pictured - The hot brand we will sear into your flesh. Which part of your body will we brand? It’s weirder than you think!

Did you know?: Therapy is a scam to keep you from the truth. Lean into your natural born mental illness to unlock your true potential!

GO DOOR TO DOOR! SPREAD THE JOY LIKE A DISEASE!

Follow this script to convert the non-billievers!

Hi! Do you have one minute to talk about the triangle who lives in your brain and has seen you naked? . YES → GOOD! The old gods are dead, and BILL ATE THEM! Dig it? . NO → Stare at them until they start crying.

Are you ready to accept him into your mind? . YES → (Continue script) . NO → Eat one of your own fingers in front of them. Don’t break eye contact.

Raise your arms and shriek a perfect E note in the 8th octave at 5,243 Hz. Their skull will shatter. Like a wine glass!

Great! Your new name is: ________________(SEE GUIDE TO CHOOSING CIPHERTOLOGY NAME PG 6) What size robe are you? __________________SEE YOU AT THE WAFFLE HOUSE! (Do Cipher Handshake, devour pamphlet, crawl away upside down)

WEIRDMEGEDDON IS COMING. WEIRDMEGEDDON IS COMING. WEIRDMEGEDDON IS COMING.

CIPHERTOLIGIST'S GUIDE TO DELIGHTSOMENESS, 1952"

Transcript:

"LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

[image]

ABOVE: The Ciphertology “Brain Seismograph” or “BS” Meter had dials for “gullibility,” “financial liquidity,” “celebrity influence,” “herbs,” and “spices.”

The cult surged in popularity and influence. Silas’s motto “embrace today as if your town is going to be hit by a tornado in exactly 3 & a half years!” was infectious, and he immediately ended all crime by declaring that “everything is legal now!”

[image]

Soon the only unconverted local was unmarried town nag Emmaline Butternubbins. She was convinced there was something “not right” about the mysterious megalomaniacal cult leader. Her protests escalated to her distributing these home-made warning pamphlets to very annoyed children.

[image]

“Most people rejected Emmaline’s message. They hated her because she told the truth” —Emmaline, to her cat Bonbon."

Transcript:

"LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

Conflict became inevitable. When Silas hijacked a local TV station to read an “erotic tale of two trapezoids,” Elk Glen filed a complaint with the FCC. Cipherologists retaliated by pouring 600 gallons of bubble solution in their drinking water. Soon the law became involved.

“Blrbl bll Tbllbl Ciphertobblblblblb” - Hurk Durnsley, Oak Glen City Council

The Cipherologists were ordered to return City Hall, dismantle the “Portal” they were building out of scrap metal and car parts, or face the full force of the Kansas State Troopers. The standoff lasted 13 days, with Silas and his die hard followers holed up in a waffle house chanting “TEETH” over and over again for reasons unknown. Silas was becoming increasingly agitated and erratic, blocking all radio and TV signals into town and ordering his followers to hurry construction of his mysterious metallic project. His body was also looking increasingly pale and desiccated, which he ascribed to his “fantastic diet” of eating nothing but “solid chunks of chlorine and ants.”

BILLVILLE DAILY NEWS June Billeteeth, Billtee-Fifty-Bill PORTAL NEARLY COMPLETE EVERYONE THRILLED, EVEN THE GOVERNMENT! (DO NOT TURN ON YOUR TELEVISION)"

Transcript:

"Finally Emmaline Butternubbins, enraged that no one liked her pamphlets, hurled a torch into the CipherTologists HQ, igniting the helium tanks, blasting out the windows and destroying Silas’s machine. Troopers opened fire as Silas’s followers held hands and began singing “WE’LL MEET AGAIN” in defiance. Silas, riddled with bullet holes, grabbed a megaphone, leapt atop the inferno, grinning wildly as he was engulfed in flame.

“YOU CAN’T KILL A MAN WHO’S ALREADY DEAD! IF YOU TAKE ME DOWN, I’LL BE BACK, MORE POWERFUL AND MORE ANNOYING THAN YOU CAN POSSIBLY IMAGINE! REMMEBER- REALITY-”

At this point, Silas Birch Tree’s head fell off, flies swarmed from his mouth and he collapsed into a grey husk. A coroner declared Silas BirchTree dead for a second time. Black helicopters evacuated the site and the city was erased from all official records. Mrs Butternubbins was awarded the Medal of Honor, which she used as an ashtray.

On the Lighter Side “QUIRKY NEWS!” CULT DISBANDED, 9 DEAD Slow news day? Well we gotta fill these pages somehow! In an oddball story that’s definitely out there a remote Orchard Lake’s homespun cult committed a laundry list of heinous crimes. Trashed walls, buildings, and tank-wielding federal agents stormed the “Cipherologists” headquarters. The panic escalated as the “Cipherologists” leader offered everyone a bag of candy and destroyed the stockade on a rented lemon- but just gave everyone you love from the ability to express their emotions. We are out of terrible diarrhea. It is unclear if this was his intention or not. We are out of things to say in this piece, no one really cares what happens in Kansas."

Transcript:

"ONLY KNOWN PHOTO OF SILAS'S BODY, 1952"

Transcript: "LESSER KNOWN AMERICAN CULTS

Although BillVille has faded into urban legend, hidden remnants remain for those who know where to look. It is even said that there are straggling members out there, still holding out hope for Silas’s return.

(RIGHT: IRONIC T-SHIRT SOLD ONLINE)

In cults, this is a common phenomenon. Human beings are so hungry for a confident voice to guide them in an uncertain world, that they’ll follow anyone, even a madman, wherever he goes. Usually off a cliff.

But there was something different about Silas Birchtree. The more I research, the more of his predictions I’ve seen coming true. Recently I was going through old records when I found Silas’s final words, tucked away in a lost letter he wrote before the standoff, a message unseen until now.

His message was:

“At least this will make a fun chapter of your book, Donna!”

My name is Donna Rutherford. Yesterday, I was a Lutheran. As of today, I am a Ciphertologist.

[CODE]"

Code decoded: "YOUCANTKILLANIDEA"

[kyleoreillylover]

Chapter 7- Part 1- The Battle Before the War

Series Summary/Masterlist

warnings: wrestling related violence, manipulation, drinking.

word count: 10, 145

tagged: @southerngirl41 @venusesworld @jeysbae @reci1996 @tbonesteakwithasideofmashngrav @hope4more @selena-tyler-564 @saintaquarius @whatdoeseverybodywant @raya-hunter01 @empressdede

Chapter Summary: Wargames is right around the corner, and tensions are worse then ever. Jey's hot headedness threatens to fracture your relationship, and Kevin wants to threaten the security of the Bloodline, and is willing to do anything to do it. You try to keep everyone together, but there is only so much you can take before you can snap. The question is, will you do it at the expense of the Bloodline? And will Sami finally prove his loyalty to the Bloodline, or will he be swayed by Kevin's warnings and prioritize his own happiness and yours over blind loyalty?

A/N: sorry for the angst teehee. Hope ya'll don't kill me lol. Please enjoy this chapter!! Love ya'll <3

"Adam, what do you mean I have to defend my title against Bianca AND Charlotte at Wargames?" You glared at Adam Pearce as you stood in his office, the tension from the brawl last week still lingering in the air.

Adam smirked at your protest, leaning back in his chair. "You're the one who attacked both Bianca and Charlotte over the past few weeks, and now it's time to face the consequences. It's not my fault you decided to take matters into your own hands," Adam replied, unfazed by your glare. "Wargames is the perfect stage for settling these scores, don't you think?"

You shook your head in frustration, clenching your fists. "This is a setup. You're trying to use this chaos to take the title away from me."

Adam chuckled, "I'm just providing the opportunity for a fair match. You've been running wild, attacking everyone in sight. Now, it's time to see if you can back it up in the ring."

Your frustration grew, and you slammed your hands on Adam's desk. "Charlotte is the one who got in my face first, and Bianca attacked me out of nowhere during my match! So it's not my fault that they got a taste of their own medicine.

Adam raised an eyebrow, seemingly unimpressed. "You're not the only one with scores to settle. Wargames will be the battleground, and the three of you will have the chance to settle your differences in a brutal, no-holds-barred match."

You slammed your fists on Adam's desk, seething with frustration. The tension in the room mirrored the chaos that had unfolded in the ring just days ago.

"The only thing that will happen is that you will have two less women on your roster after Wargames," you retorted, glaring at Adam with a fiery determination. He leaned forward, his smirk widening. "I will break both of them so bad that their bones will be begging for mercy," you declared, your words laced with venom. Adam's smirk widened at your angry promise.

"You are not getting out of this, and that is final. Wargames will be the reckoning, and your title will be on the line. If you're as unstoppable as you claim to be, prove it in the most unforgiving match we can offer. You should get ready for that contract signing, because it's happening tonight." Adam's tone was authoritative, leaving no room for negotiation.

You wanted to jump over the table and strangle the smirk off of Adam's stupid face, maybe then he would take you seriously. But instead, you shot him one final glare, and stormed out of his office, frustration boiling within you. The chaos that unfolded in the ring, the internal conflicts within the Bloodline, and now this unexpected title defense in a Wargames match—it was all too much to handle in such a short span.

Jey was waiting for you outside his office, his own frustration evident on his face.  The two of you hadn't exchanged pleasant words since the heated argument in the ring on Friday. The tension between the two of you was palpable, and you could feel the weight of the Bloodline's internal conflicts pressing down on you.

Jey tried to catch your eye as you walked past him, "What did he say?" he questioned, his voice tight with concern.

"What do you think?" You snapped back, the frustration evident in your tone. "I have to defend the title against both Bianca and Charlotte in a Wargames match. Adam thinks it's some kind of poetic justice for me taking matters into my own hands."

Jey rolled his eyes at Adam's idea of justice and your attitude. "So you can't help us against Kevin and his team?"

You halted in your tracks, turning sharply to face Jey. "Are you seriously still on that? We're talking about my title, Jey. If you and the others can't handle Kevin Owens and his crew, that's on you."

Jey's frustration mirrored yours. "You seriously think we can't handle them?"

"I didn't say that." You retorted, crossing your arms. 

"But you don't think we need your help," Jey finished your sentence, a mixture of irritation and hurt in his eyes.

The tense silence between you two lingered, both of you grappling with the conflicting loyalties and the growing divide within the Bloodline. The hallway seemed to tighten around you, suffocating under the weight of expectations, rivalry, and unresolved issues.

"Jey, can you please just understand that I've got a lot on my plate right now?" you pleaded, the frustration in your voice giving way to a hint of vulnerability.

"You don't  get it, do you?" Jey's voice was a mix of frustration and disappointment. "It's not about your title. The Bloodline is falling apart, and we need each other now more than ever." He stopped you from walking away by grabbing your arm. His touch was firm, and when you tried to pull away, he held on tighter.

"And now, when we need to stand together, you're pushing us away." Jey said, his eyes intense as he locked onto yours. 

Your skin lit on fire at the way Jey was looking at you — all anger and disappointment that made the anger boil in your chest. How dare he be disappointed in you when he was the one questioning your loyalty? The conflict within the Bloodline was tearing at the seams, and you felt the weight of it all. 

"You were the one that told me you would choose Roman over anyone else, including me," you shot back, your tone sharp. "I'm just taking you at your word. So don't act like I'm the one tearing the Bloodline apart." 

You snatched your arm from Jey's grip, eyes fiery and temper flaring. "So how about you go back to your precious leader and figure out how you're going to deal with Kevin Owens and his crew. I've got a title to defend and no time for your drama."

With that, you stormed way from Jey, leaving him standing in the hallway, frustration etched on his face. The tension within the Bloodline had reached a breaking point, and the divide between loyalty to Roman and the need to address external threats was tearing at the seams.

"Fuck." Jey muttered as he kicked a rubble on the floor, frustration boiling within him.

He needed to get his head straight, and get his girl back. He needed to hurt the cause of  the chaos, and that meant Kevin and Sami. He knew you would be pissed that he was taking matters into his own hands, but he couldn't let the Bloodline crumble. 

As Jey stormed off in the opposite direction, determined to confront Kevin and Sami, the hallway echoed with the unresolved tensions that threatened to shatter the unity of the Bloodline.

————-

"What did I tell you to do?" Roman's angry voice made your skin crawl as he confronted Sami in the locker room. The tension in the air was thick, mirroring the conflicts that had spilled out into the hallway.

Sami, sitting on a bench, looked up at Roman, his face a mixture of regret and frustration. "I hesitated for a moment, but I'm still with the Bloodline," he defended himself, the turmoil in his eyes betraying his internal struggle.

Roman's gaze narrowed, his disappointment palpable. "When I give an order, you follow it without hesitation. Loyalty is everything."

You, having followed Roman into the locker room, stepped forward, trying to mediate the escalating situation. "Roman, he's still with us. We need to focus on the real threat—Kevin and his team."

Roman's attention shifted to you, his eyes flickering with a mixture of frustration and authority. "This is an internal matter. Stay out of it."

You went to speak again, but Sami cut you off before you could get yourself into anymore trouble. "Roman, I messed up. I get it. But I'm still with the Bloodline. I just need a chance to prove it," Sami pleaded, desperation evident in his voice.

Sami knew he fucked up by hesitating, and he was fully aware of the consequences. For one second, he had let doubt cloud his judgment, and Roman was not one to tolerate such lapses in loyalty. You sat on the bench next to Sami, a concerned expression on your face. Jimmy, Jey, and Solo were out as per Roman's orders to leave you alone. Why he let you stay was  a mystery. Did he want to watch you squirm as he yelled at Sami, knowing you couldn't ntervene?

Roman's stern gaze shifted between you and Sami, contemplating the situation. The tension in the locker room was palpable, the air thick with the consequences of Sami's momentary lapse in loyalty. Your presence seemed to add another layer of complexity to the situation, but Roman's focus remained on Sami.

"I don't tolerate hesitation, Sami," Roman stated, his voice low and authoritative. "You had a choice, and you chose to doubt. Loyalty can't afford hesitation."

Sami nodded, acknowledging the gravity of his mistake. "I messed up, Roman. I should have acted without thinking. It won't happen again."

Roman's expression remained stern, but a flicker of consideration crossed his eyes. 

"Then prove it." Roman straightened up, his aura demanding respect. "You want a chance to prove your loyalty? You'll get it. Tonight." Roman's face was etched with a look that made you wonder what kind of test he had in mind for Sami. The stakes within the Bloodline were escalating, and Roman's decisions carried the weight of the faction's unity.

"You face Kevin Owens, and you prove that you're still an asset to the Bloodline. If you hesitate again, there won't be any room for redemption," Roman declared, his words leaving no room for argument.

Sami's eyes widened, a mix of determination and anxiety flashing across his face. The gravity of the situation had just intensified, and the burden of proving himself hung heavy on Sami's shoulders.

Roman's gaze shifted to you, who was still sitting on the bench, observing the intense exchange. "And you," Roman turned his attention to you, his voice carrying the weight of authority. "Jey and Jimmy will accompany you to handle your business in that contract signing, and then you'll accompany Sami to his match against Kevin tonight. We can't afford any more setbacks."

Great, just what you needed. Kevin making your life 10x harder, and Jey adding to the chaos. As Roman left the locker room, you exchanged a glance with Sami, both of you realizing the magnitude of the task at hand.

"You didn't have to stay and watch that," Sami muttered, a hint of embarrassment in his voice.

"I didn't exactly have a choice," you replied, a mixture of frustration and concern in your tone. He looked at your neck and saw you weren't wearing the pendant he gave you, and realization crossed his face. "I'm messing everything up." The nerves were clear in his voice, and you could sense Sami's internal struggle.

"No, you are not." You tried to reassure him, but he cut you off.

"I hesitated, and Roman is right. Loyalty doesn't hesitate." Sami's frustration was evident, and he seemed to be grappling with the weight of his actions. The locker room atmosphere was tense, and the upcoming match against Kevin Owens hung like a dark cloud over both of you. "And I'm the reason you and Jey are falling apart."

"You're not the reason for everything, Sami," you insisted, trying to calm his spiraling thoughts. Jey made the arguments about Sami, you made the arguments about how you were feeling overwhelmed and torn between conflicting loyalties. Sami's eyes bore into yours, his internal turmoil mirroring the chaos that surrounded the Bloodline.

"It's not just about tonight's match. It's everything. The Bloodline, the title defense, Jey," Sami sighed, frustration evident in his voice. "I don't want to be the cause of all this mess."

"Sami, stop spiraling." You gripped his shoulders, trying to steady him, but he continued to ramble about his fears and concerns. The weight of the Bloodline's internal conflicts seemed to crush down on both of you, and there was no easy solution in sight.

"Sami..." Your eyes turned to the TV that was playing when an unexpected scene caught your attention. It was Jey standing in the middle of the ring, mic in hand and an angry expression on his face. The volume of the TV was low, but you could hear Jey's voice echoing through the locker room.

"...Sami don't belong in the bloodline! And if you can't see that Y/N, then you need to open your eyes!" Jey's words sent a shockwave through the locker room. Your heart sank, and Sami's eyes widened as the gravity of the situation unfolded on the screen.

"What the hell is he doing?" Sami muttered, his frustration now directed at the unfolding drama in the ring.

You couldn't believe what you were seeing. Jey, airing the Bloodline's internal conflicts in such a public manner, was a betrayal of the unity the faction had always prided itself on.

You heard Kevin's music hitting, and Jey's attention shifted towards the entrance ramp. The situation was spiraling out of control, and you and Sami exchanged a glance, realizing that the Bloodline's internal conflicts were now on full display for the world to witness.

"Did you know he was going to do this?" Sami questioned, his eyes searching yours for answers.

"No, I had no idea." You replied, frustration and concern etched on your face. This was not gonna end well. You watched as the  TV screen showed Kevin Owens making his way to the ring, a sly smile on his face as he observed the turmoil within the Bloodline. 

"Jey, everything I said was gonna happen has started happening. Sami is falling apart, Roman is pissed, and now Jey is publicly airing our dirty laundry." Kevin's voice crackled through the TV speakers as he entered the ring, the chaos in the arena mirroring the chaos within the Bloodline.

"Sami, go out there and handle Kevin Owens," Roman's voice cut through the tension in the locker room, snapping both you and Sami back to the immediate situation at hand. He must've walked in while you were fixated on the camera. Roman's tone brooked no argument, and Sami, with a nod, headed towards the ring.

You went to get up, but Roman stopped you with a stern look. "You're not going anywhere. I need you focused on the contract signing. Jey has caused enough chaos for one night."

You went to respond, but Kevin's voice resonated again through the speakers, his taunts and provocations cutting through the locker room.

"I told you all nothing but the cold hard truth. And I think the one person that needs to hear it more than anyone is you, Jey." Kevin paused, letting the words hang in the air as the TV screen showed Jey's angry expression.

"I already know what you 'bout to say, uce! You gon' say that you gon' beat us at Wargames, that me and Sami are distracting the Bloodline, that Y/N needs to open her eyes and see that The Bloodline are the real problems in her life. But the only person who causing problems in her life is you, Kevin!" Jey shouted back, his voice echoing through the locker room. The intensity of the confrontation in the ring seeped through the TV, and you couldn't tear your eyes away from the unfolding drama.

Roman's expression darkened as he listened to Jey's words. The tension within the Bloodline was reaching a boiling point, and the external threat posed by Kevin Owens only added fuel to the fire.

"You wanna talk about loyalty, uce?" Jey continued, his eyes locked onto Kevin in the ring. "Loyalty is standing by your family, by your blood, no matter what. You don't get that, Kevin. You never will, cause you betray everyone you get close to. And that's why Y/N and Sami need to get away from you, and that's why I don't want Sami in The Bloodline anymore!"

Kevin sarcastically laughed, but you could see the anger in his eyes at the mention of betraying people. The intensity of the situation reached a new height, and the locker room seemed to echo with the weight of Jey's words.

"I actually wasn't gonna say that Jey. What I was gonna say was that you're a damn hypocrite. You preach about loyalty, but your actions speak louder than your words," Kevin shot back, his gaze locked onto Jey. he tension in the ring was mirrored by the tension in the locker room.

"We aren't blind, Jey. We can see you and Y/N falling apart. Sami hesitating because he doesn't know where his loyalty lies. Y/N caught in the crossfire. Roman trying to maintain control, but the seams are unraveling. And you, Jey, you're at the center of it all. You wanna blame me for you and Y/N falling apart, but you need to take a good look in the mirror. Cause all I told her was the truth, that you will never choose her over Roman. And then what happened?" 

You held your breath as Kevin inched closer to an angry Jey who looked like he was about to pounce on him. "You confirmed her worst fears, Jey. You told her that you would choose Roman over anyone, including her."

You could feel Roman's stare on you as Kevin's words cut through the airwaves. You slowly turned to him, your expression a mix of frustration, confusion, and concern. The locker room seemed to shrink as the external conflict mirrored the internal struggles within the Bloodline. 

Roman's gaze was unwavering, his eyes penetrating yours. Whether it was a warning or an inquiry, you couldn't decipher. The intensity in the room was suffocating, the weight of the unfolding drama pressing down on everyone.

"You're the one tearing her apart, not me. And you only have yourself to blame for all of this, for Sami hesitating, for Y/N being caught in the middle, for the chaos within the Bloodline," Kevin continued, his words cutting through the air like a knife. 

"Shut the fuck up about Sami!" ey roared, his frustration boiling over. The locker room was on edge, and Roman's stoic expression revealed nothing of his inner thoughts. On cue, Sami came out from the back, a conflicted expression on his face. The TV screen split between the ongoing confrontation in the ring and Sami's entrance.

Sami hesitated for a moment, glancing between Jey and Kevin, seemingly torn between the internal conflicts of the Bloodline and the external threat posed by Kevin Owens. The tension in the locker room reached its peak, a palpable feeling of uncertainty and unrest settling over the faction.

"Roman, I need to go out there." You pleaded with the Tribal Chief, your voice desperate as you tried to convey the urgency of the situation. Roman's gaze remained fixed on you, a silent command for you to stay put.

"Not yet," Roman responded, his tone firm. "Let Jey handle this. He wants to be a big boy and go out there to air our dirty laundry, let him deal with the consequences."

You bit your lip, torn between following Roman's orders and the burning desire to confront the escalating chaos in the ring. The TV screen showed Jey and Kevin locked in a heated exchange, the verbal sparring reaching new heights. The weight of the Bloodline's internal conflicts hung in the air like a storm about to unleash its fury.

"Oh, here's your best friend, Sami!" Kevin mocked Jey, knowing his words were like fuel to the fire. Sami hesitated at the entrance ramp, caught between loyalty to the Bloodline and the accusations flying between Kevin and Jey.

"What the hell you doing here?" Jey shouted at Sami, his frustration evident in his tone. Sami glanced between Jey and Kevin, the internal struggle visible on his face.

"Roman told me to come out here to handle Kevin!" Sami shouted back as he walked into the ring, trying to assert his presence in the chaotic situation.

Jey's expression turned from frustration to anger as he processed Sami's words. "Roman told you? This is our business, Sami! We don't need you making it worse!"

"You already kinda did that yourself!" Sami snapped back, frustration clear in his voice. The tension in the ring escalated as Sami joined the fray, caught between the conflicts within the Bloodline and the external threat posed by Kevin Owens.

The TV screen split between the chaotic scene in the ring and Roman's stern gaze in the locker room. The entire faction seemed to be unraveling, torn between internal disputes and the impending external threat of Wargames

Kevin laughed at the growing chaos in the ring, reveling in the discord he had sown within the Bloodline.  Sami pushed Jey away from him and turned to his ex-best friend, a mix of frustration and determination in his eyes.

"Kevin, if you know what's good for you, leave this ring and never come back. This is our business, and you have no place here," Sami declared, trying to assert control over the situation.

Kevin, however, seemed to thrive on the chaos. "Oh, I know what's good for me, Sami. And what's good for me is watching the Bloodline tear itself apart. But you don't belong in their shit, Sami!" Kevin wanted his friend to stop being in la la land and pretending that he is actually in the Bloodline, and he wanted you to stop being torn between loyalties and choose him.

"I actually do belong with them, Kevin," Sami shot back, his frustration boiling over. "More than you'll ever understand. Now get out of this ring before things get uglier than they already are."

Kevin smirked, enjoying the chaos he had ignited. "Oh, you do? Then why do they always turn their backs on you, Sami? Why does Jey want you out? And why is Y/N caught in the middle, torn between loyalty to the Bloodline and whatever the hell she has with you?"

Your heart dropped at the last words that came out of Kevin's mouth. He's such an asshole, you thought, and you watched as Jey automatically tried to charge at Kevin, but Sami held him back, creating a chaotic scene in the ring. The split screen continued to show the escalating tension in the locker room, with Roman's stern expression contrasting with the turmoil outside.

"Get the fuck off of me!" Jey yelled yelled at Sami, trying to break free from his grip. The chaos in the ring mirrored the internal conflicts within the Bloodline, and you could feel the weight of it all pressing down on you.

"He's lying to you!" Sami tried to reason with Jey, but his words seemed to fall on deaf ears as the chaos in the ring intensified. The situation had escalated beyond control, with Kevin Owens reveling in the discord he had stirred up within the Bloodline.

"That's it!" Roman's authoritative voice cut through the tension in the locker room. His stern gaze locked onto you, a silent command for you to take control of the situation. The TV screen split between the unfolding drama in the ring and Roman's unwavering presence in the locker rooms.

You heeded his command and quickly made your way to the entrance ramp. The chaotic scene in the ring intensified as you entered, drawing the attention of Jey, Sami, and Kevin. The split screen showed Roman watching closely, his expression revealing nothing of his thoughts.

Kevin laughed even more at the sight of Jey's fury, Sami's frustration, and your entrance into the chaos. He was finally so close to bringing you and Sami out of the Bloodline, and he reveled in the disarray he had caused within the faction.

"Jey, you need to calm down," you shouted over the chaos in the ring, trying to assert control. "Sami, let go of him!" Sami reluctantly released Jey, and you stepped between them, facing Kevin with a determined glare.

"Kevin, I know what you're trying to do, and it's not gonna work," you declared, your voice cutting through the tension. Mind games were what he excelled in, and you weren't gonna let him manipulate the situation any further. "Jey, Sami, let's go, Sami can beat your ass later." The TV screen showed Roman's stoic expression, his eyes narrowing as he observed the unfolding drama.

Kevin chuckled, unfazed by your defiance. "Oh, Y/N, always the peacemaker. But the truth hurts, doesn't it? Jey's loyalty lies with Roman, not with you." He wanted to show you the truth, even if the truth hurt.

Your eyes widened in hurt at Kevin's provocation, and you turned to Jey, who was seething with anger. The weight of the Bloodline's internal conflicts bore down on you, and you knew that Kevin was intentionally trying to exploit the fractures within the faction.

"Shut your mouth! Jey went to lunge at Kevin, but you stood in between them, and Jey stopped to look down at you, his chest heaving and eyes blazing with frustration. He could see the hurt in your own eyes, and his heart ached at the sight. In his mind, it was Kevin's fault that you herein this situation, and Jey wanted nothing more than to pummel 

"Enough!" you shouted, trying to diffuse the escalating tension. "Jey, Sami, we have bigger issues to deal with. This is exactly what Kevin wants – to see us tear each other apart. We can't let him win."

“Yeah, listen to the woman you claim to love but won’t commit to.” Kevin snapped at Jey, and Jey went to attack Kevin again, but Sami held him back. Jey seemed angrier that Sami was the one that prevented him from taking a swing at Kevin. The chaos in the ring and the escalating tensions within the Bloodline seemed like an insurmountable storm.

"Sami, let go of me, damn it! This is your fault!”

Jey growled, still seething with anger. Sami released his grip, eyebrows furrowed in confusion and frustration. 

“My fault?!” Sami yelled back, his own frustration boiling over. The ring was on the verge of erupting into chaos, and you stood in the middle, desperately trying to maintain some semblance of control.

“Yeah, your fault! Cause you always tryna push up on my girl, and now look at the mess we in!” Jey scowled at Sami, going to sucker punch him, but you pushed Sami behind you, grabbing Jey’s fist and holding it back.

 Jey automatically looked at you, his anger momentarily replaced by surprise as you intervened. Your smaller hand held back Jey's fist, the struggle evident in both of your expressions. Your eyes locked with Jey's, a silent plea for him to calm down and not let the chaos consume the Bloodline.

“Baby, let go!” You shook your head at Jey’s wirds, and he glared at you,  torn between frustration and the realization that the situation had spiraled out of control.

"Why you protecting em, huh?" Jey's voice was a mix of frustration and hurt. You were exasperated by the same pattern of jealousy and possessiveness from Jey. "I'm not protecting anyone! You need to calm the hell down!" 

Sami watched as you and Jey continued to exchange heated words, the tension in the ring escalating with each passing moment. The split screen showed Roman's expression, his stoic demeanor revealing little about his thoughts on the chaotic situation.

"Calm down?! How about you calm down and pick a side, babe!" Jey's frustration reached a boiling point, and he shoved you away, breaking free from your grip. The tension in the ring reached a critical level, and Sami, caught in the middle, looked torn between the escalating conflict and the desire to diffuse the situation.

You looked up at him, hurt that he shoved you away like that. Like you were nothing. "Pick a side?" You frowned at Jey's words, feeling a mix of anger and disappointment. "Are you blind? Are you acting dumb?"

"Oh, so now I'm the one acting dumb?" Jey retorted, his frustration evident in his tone. The split screen showed Roman's stern expression, his eyes narrowing as he observed the unfolding drama.

"I didn't say you are dumb. I asked if you are acting dumb," you clarified, your frustration mirroring Jey's. "Cause it's pretty clear I'm on your side. I've always been on your side!"

Sami stepped forward, trying to mediate the escalating conflict. "Guys, let's just calm down." 

But his words fell on deaf ears as the tension between you and Jey continued to escalate. The chaotic scene in the ring reflected the internal conflicts within the Bloodline, and  as Kevin watched, ready to intervene if Jey got in your face, Sami found himself caught in the crossfire.

"Oh really? Then stop acting like you're all cozy with Sami, and maybe I'll believe you're on my side!" Jey shot back, his frustration reaching a breaking point.

You glared angrily at Jey, disbelief and hurt written all over your face. "Cozy with Sami? Are you serious right now? This is about loyalty to the Bloodline, not some ridiculous jealousy!" The split screen showed Roman's expression darkening, his patience wearing thin as the internal conflicts within the faction threatened to unravel everything.

Sami, caught in the middle, tried to reason with both of you. "Guys, please calm down!"

But now you weren't just hurt. You were angry. Extremely angry. How dare Jey, your boyfriend, the man that claims to love you, accuse you of being cozy with Sami on live television. 

Your eyes hardened at Jey's accusations, and you took a step closer to him, the frustration radiating from your face. All you heard in your head was to put Jey in his place. No man is gonna disrespect you like that, especially not in front of the entire world.

"Jey Uso, you need to get your head out of your ass and stop accusing me of things that aren't true!" Your voice was firm, anger lacing every word. You were scary when you were angry, and Jey could see it in your eyes.

The tension in the ring was palpable, and Sami, caught in the middle, looked torn between trying to mediate and the fear of worsening the situation. "You really think I would betray you like that?" 

"I'm not accusing you of anything. I'm just telling you to pick a side," Jey retorted, ignoring your question, his own frustration fueling the heated exchange. The split screen showed Roman's stern expression, his eyes narrowing as he observed the unfolding drama.

"I told you, his loyalty will always lie with Roman." Kevin stepped up, wanting to convince you of  the truth he believed in. Sami whipped his head to Kevin, frustration etched on his face. 

"You need to back off, Kevin. This is none of your business," Sami snapped at Kevin, his frustration evident. He needed to get rid of the problem, and Kevin was the one causing problems.

"Oh, it's very much my business when it involves Y/N," Kevin replied, a sly smirk on his face. "I'm just pointing out the obvious, and she deserves to know the truth."

You shot Kevin a venomous glare, your patience wearing thin. "I don't need you to tell me anything. Stay out of our business!"

Jey, still seething with anger, turned his attention back to you. "You need to stop playing these games! I can't have someone who's not fully with me."

You scoffed, not being able to take his accusations any longer. "Games? You're the one starting this whole mess on live television, accusing me of things I haven't done. If you can't trust me, then maybe you need to figure out your own priorities."

You had pushed Jey too much, and he couldn't handle it anymore. He was a hothead at his worst, and his insecurities and your anguish had reached a boiling point. 

"And if you can't handle the truth, maybe you need to reconsider being a part of the Bloodline," Jey shot back, his frustration turning into a cold determination, but he regretted the words as soon as they left his mouth. The weight of the silence that followed hung heavily in the air, a tangible tension that seemed to echo through the entire arena.

Your brain shut down at the weight of Jey's words. The shock, hurt, and anger collided within you, creating a storm of emotions. Everyone else seemed to fade away, and  all that remained was the harsh reality of the words that had just been spoken. 

The man you loved just told you that he questioned your place in the Bloodline, and in his life. The realization hit you like a punch to the gut, and for a moment, you felt the world around you blur. 

Jey's declaration hung in the air like a heavy cloud, and the split screen showed Roman's expression darkening, his eyes narrowing at the unfolding chaos. The tension within the Bloodline had reached a breaking point, and the fractures within the faction seemed irreparable.

Sami's hands on your shoulders steadied you as the weight of Jey's words sank in, but you brushed his hands away, needing a moment to process everything. Jey's face was a mixture of regret and frustration, and he tried to reach out to you, but you stepped back, putting some distance between you and him. 

"You really think that?"  Your voice was shaky, a mix of hurt and anger lacing your words, and Jey's heart hurt at the sight. He thought airing out his feelings on  live television would make things better, but it only seemed to have made everything worse.

Jey's regret was evident, but he struggled to find the right words to mend the damage. "Y/N, I didn't mean it like that. I was just angry, and I—" Jey began to explain, desperation in his voice, but you held up a hand to stop him.

No, Jey. You said what you really felt. Don't try to backtrack now." Your voice wavered with a mixture of emotions. "You wanna act like a big strong man and air out our shit on live TV, fine. But  don't expect me to just forgive and forget when you question my loyalty and place in the Bloodline." 

Your words were sharp, each one laced with the hurt and betrayal you felt in that moment. Jey stepped closer to you, his eyes pleading for understanding, but you took another step back, the distance between you growing.

"No, you wanna question my loyalty? Fine, then maybe I need to reevaluate my place in the Bloodline and in your life," you declared, your tone resolute. 

"No, no, no you do not." Sami tried to step in, his frustration evident. "Y/N, don't let this moment define everything. Emotions are high, and Jey didn't mean—"

You cut Sami off, your eyes never leaving Jey's. "No, Sami. He needs to face the consequences of his words. If he questions my loyalty and my place, then maybe it's time for me to make a decision." You've been angry at Jey dozen's of times, but you've never disrespected him like that. Ever.

"I ain't mean it like that, Y/N. You know I—"

"No, Jey. I don't want to hear it right now," you interrupted, your voice firm. "Maybe you should figure out what you really want and what's important to you. Because I won't stay where I'm not fully wanted or appreciated. This argument has been gong on for far too fucking long, and I'm tired of it!"

Kevin observed the chaos unfolding in the ring with a satisfied grin. The disarray within the Bloodline was exactly what he wanted, and it seemed like his plan to sow discord among them was working better than he could have anticipated. He was gonna have you and Sami back with him in no time.

"I told you, Y/N, that this would happen. I know a snake when I see one, and Jey is proving me right," Kevin's voice echoed in your mind, his words taunting you as you stood face to face with Jey, the tension between you thick with unspoken words and unresolved emotions.

"I told you too, Sami. Why do you think Jey hates you and wants you out of the Bloodline? He sees you as a threat to his relationship with Y/N, and he'll do whatever it takes to get rid of you." 

Kevin faced Sami, sympathy on his face. Sami, frustrated and torn, glared at Kevin, his internal struggle evident in his eyes. "Why do you keep fighting for people who don't appreciate you? Why do you let Jey treat you like this?" Kevin's words lingered in the air, planting seeds of doubt and frustration.

Sami glared at Kevin, but couldn't deny the turmoil within him. "Kevin, just leave it alone," Sami snapped, the frustration evident in his voice.  

"Why? I told you what was going to happen, Sami. The Bloodline is falling apart, and you're caught in the middle of it. You deserve better than this, and deep down, you know it —"

 Before Kevin could finish his sentence, Jey lunged at Kevin, unable to stand his taunting any longer. The chaos in the ring reached a fever pitch as Jey's fist connected with Kevin's jaw, sending him sprawling to the mat. Sami rushed forward, trying to intervene, but the damage had been done. 

You watched as Kevin dodged a counterattack from Jey, and Sami trying and failing to push Jey off of Kevin. The chaotic scene in the ring mirrored the internal conflicts within the Bloodline, and the split screen showed Roman's stern expression deepening. 

"Get the fuck off me!" Jey yelled at Sami, trying to break free and deliver another blow to Kevin.

"This is what he wants, Jey!" Sami yelled, desperately trying to reason with Jey. The split screen continued to display the chaotic scene in the ring, and Roman's patience seemed to be wearing thin.

You were frozen in the corner of the ring, watching as the chaos unfolded before you. The tension was palpable, and the fractures within the Bloodline were now on full display for the world to witness. Your mind was a whirlwind of emotions, torn between the hurtful words Jey had uttered and the chaos that had erupted in the ring.

You snapped out of your stupor as you saw Kevin hit a Stunner on Jey, taking advantage of Sami and Jey's argument, leaving him sprawled on the mat. You took off your title, running to hit him with it while Sami after a half-second tried to  run towards  Kevin, but Kevin swiftly rolled out of the ring just in time, avoiding the potential attack. 

You stood there, your title in your hands, and the camera captured how you stared down at Jey, a mix of frustration and disappointment on your face, while Sami watched Kevin with a conflicted expression. The split screen showed Roman's stern gaze, his unreadable expression revealing nothing of his thoughts on the chaotic situation.

"I'm gonna get you both back where you belong!" Kevin shouted from outside the ring, a grin on his face as he reveled in the chaos he had unleashed within the Bloodline. "And that's with me!"

You watched as Jey stirred, and you felt a surge of conflicting emotions. The chaos in the ring, the hurtful words exchanged, and the internal conflicts within the Bloodline had reached a breaking point. Sami stood by your side, torn between the escalating situation and his loyalty to the faction. 

You moved towards Jey, checking on him to make sure he was okay before extending a hand to help him up. Jey looked up at you, his expression a mix of pain and regret, and reluctantly took your hand.

"You alright?" you asked, your voice softer than before, the anger giving way to concern. Jey nodded, avoiding eye contact, and you helped him stand. Sami watched the exchange, a conflicted expression on his face as he processed the events that had just unfolded.

"Go back to the locker room, both of you. Tell Jimmy to stay back too. I'll handle my business." You let go of Jey's hand, and Jey's face turned hurt at your words. There was a moment of tension between the three of you, the weight of the situation hanging heavily in the air.

"You've never asked me to leave before," Jey muttered, a hint of vulnerability in his voice.

"And you've never spoken to me like that before." You replied, your voice steady but laced with the lingering emotions from the confrontation. "I need to handle my own business, and you need to handle yours. We'll talk about this later, but for now, give me some space."

Jey looked torn, caught between the desire to argue and the realization that he had crossed a line. Sami watched silently, unsure of his place in the unfolding drama. The tension in the arena seemed to intensify with every passing moment. You and Jey were locked in a stare, the unspoken words echoing in the air.

"Whatever you want, baby." Jey said finally, his voice subdued. He turned away, making his way towards the locker room with a heavy heart. He looked at you—eyes filled with love, regret, and uncertanity — before leaving the ring. Sami hesitated for a moment, torn between following Jey or staying with you. After a lingering glance, he chose to accompany Jey, leaving you standing alone in the ring.

You licked your lips as the screen's logo displayed the contract signing for you, Bianca and Charlotte would start in 5 minutes, your eyes never leaving Jey's, your eyes locked in a silent exchange of emotions. The arena was buzzing with the aftermath of the confrontation, and as the countdown for the contract signing began, you took a deep breath, trying to compose yourself.

You could only hope that the wounds inflicted on the Bloodline, and especially on your relationship with Jey, could heal over time.

————-

You sat in a chair across the ring from Bianca and Charlotte, a bored expression on your face as Adam Pearce began the contract signing. The tension from the earlier confrontation still lingered within you, making it challenging to focus on the upcoming match. Your mind kept replaying the hurtful words exchanged with Jey, the chaotic scene that unfolded, and the fractures within the Bloodline that were now more apparent than ever.

Bianca and Charlotte exchanged heated words, their rivalry evident even in the formal setting of the contract signing. You, however, remained detached, your thoughts elsewhere. All you heard was 'I'm the EST of WWE', blah blah blah, 'I'm the queen of the WWE,' and it all seemed like background noise. You perked up when you heard your name mentioned, snapping back to the present.

"Look at her! All she's focused on is her little Bloodline drama! She's not even focused on the match!" Charlotte sneered, pointing a finger at you. "That's where I thrive, when people are distracted. I'll take advantage of that in the match, and neither of you can stop me."

You looked up, meeting Charlotte's icy gaze with a steely resolve. "Oh please, Charlotte, save the theatrics for the stage. I may be dealing with some personal issues, but when that bell rings, I'll be more focused than ever. You might want to worry less about me and more about surviving the match, considering I already beat your ass a few weeks back."

"Both of ya'll ain't gonna be able  to handle what I bring to the table," Bianca interjected, her eyes filled with confidence. "You thought you was real slick attacking my man and my friend a few weeks back, but I've been patiently waiting for the right moment to make my move." Bianca leaned forward, signing the contract with a smirk. "Come Wargames, I'ma show everyone that both of ya'll are just fake little queens compared to the EST. "

You snatched the contract from Pearce's hands, signing it with a swift and determined motion. "Like you showed how to lose in less than 26 seconds?" You shot back, reminding her of her lose to Becky, your old ex-friend, your words laced with a hint of sarcasm. The tension in the room escalated, each participant in the upcoming match locked in a verbal battle.

You finished signing, throwing the contract in Charlotte's face. Charlotte sarcastically chuckled at your gesture, and the tension in the room seemed ready to explode. 

"Typical Y/N, always trying to overcompsenate for her personal problems by talking big. But talk is cheap, sweetheart. And actions speak louder than words. You can talk all the shit that you want, but once that bell rings, I'll prove why I'm the queen of this division. And  you're gonna be left with no title," 

Charlotte finished signing the paper, giving it to Pearce without breaking eye contact with you. "No friends or stupid Bloodline," You knew she was gonna say something stupid, and starting taking off your earrings, glaring at her, ready for whatever she was about to say. 

"And you're gonna be left with no title, no friends, and no man, considering he just walked away from you." You didn't let her finish before you lunged across the table, taking her down. The both of you fell to the floor, the contract signing descending into chaos. Security rushed in to separate you and Charlotte as the arena erupted in cheers and jeers. Bianca joined the fight when she saw an opportunity, throwing punches at the both of you, adding to the chaos. The three of you were a whirlwind of fists and fury, and the security team struggled to control the situation.

You managed to kick Charlotte off you, getting back to your feet. Bianca was resting on the ropes from a big boot by Charlotte,  and you saw an opportunity. With a burst of energy, you charged at Bianca, delivering a spear that sent her crashing to the mat. The crowd erupted in cheers as you stood over Bianca, reclaiming control of the situation. 

You breathed heavily, your chest rising and falling with a mix of adrenaline and frustration. You looked at the ramp, wishing it was Jey , but he was nowhere in sight. The realization that the fractures within the Bloodline had widened, and the wounds inflicted on your relationship might take time to heal, hit you hard.

You turned around right into a surprise attack from Charlotte, who had recovered quickly. She tried to capitalize on the chaos, delivering a Natural Selection that left you sprawled on the mat. The arena buzzed with a mix of cheers and boos as Charlotte stood tall, the chaos she had incited achieving its desired effect. 

Bianca quickly recovered, and both women stared each other down, a silent understanding passing between them that, despite their differences, they needed to focus on the common threat – you.

They hauled you up to your feet, looking to inflict more damage. "You can't handle the truth, can you, Y/N?" Charlotte taunted, her voice dripping with arrogance. "Your little Bloodline is falling apart, and soon, so will your reign as champion." Bianca scoffed, joining in on the taunting. "You're nothing without your so-called family. The EST is going to prove that at Wargames."

They both grabbed you, wanting to throw you into the table, but both of them wanted to be the one to inflict the final blow. Bianca tried to pull you, but Charlotte pushed her off of you, claiming her dominance in the situation. The tug-of-war continued, and you waited until they let you go and started getting in each others faces.

"What are you doing?!" Charlotte snapped at Bianca, her frustration evident. "I had her right where I wanted her!"

"I had her first!" Bianca shot back, refusing to back down. The two women were now locked in a heated argument, completely forgetting about you for the moment.

Seizing the opportunity, you gathered your strength,  grabbed your title from next to you, and charged at them with your title in hand. You swung the championship like a weapon, catching both Charlotte and Bianca off guard. The impact echoed through the arena as you laid them out, making a bold statement that you weren't to be underestimated.

You picked up the contract from the ground, a glare on your face, holding it high in the air as if you had won the entire match, stepping over the fallen bodies of Charlotte and Bianca, picking up your title and standing on the table, raising your championship high above your head. The crowd, now a mix of cheers and boos, acknowledged the chaos you had just unleashed. You savored the crowd's reaction, feeling on top, despite everything that happened. You were on top, you were in control, you were the best.

And nothing and no one would take that away from you. Because your title meant everything to you. Even more than the turmoil within the Bloodline or the wounds inflicted on your relationship with Jey.

————-

"WHY DID YOU GO OUT THERE, HUH?" You winced at Roman's volume of voice as he yelled at Jey for his earlier promo where he aired out the Bloodline's grievances. "ARE YOU THE TRIBAL CHIEF NOW? YOU THINK YOU CAN JUST DECIDE WHAT'S BEST FOR EVERYONE?"

Jey stood in the locker room, head bowed, absorbing Roman's verbal onslaught. The air in the room was thick with tension, and the other members of the Bloodline exchanged uneasy glances, unsure of how to navigate the storm that had erupted within their faction.

"I was just trying to set things straight," Jey mumbled, his voice barely audible.

Romans sarcastically chuckled at Jey's response, the tension in the room escalating. "Set things straight? You embarrassed us out there. You brought our family drama to the entire world. You think that's setting things straight?" Roman's eyes bore into Jey, disappointment and anger evident in his gaze. "You think you can just make decisions on your own, without consulting me? You think you're the one who gets to decide what's best for the Bloodline?! You're the reason people think Kevin actually has a chance at beating us!! That loser thinks he's got an opening because you can't keep your emotions in check."

You sat next to the corner of the room, Solo and Sami on either side of you, Jimmy sitting next to Jey, watching the intense exchange between Roman and Jey. The atmosphere was charged with hostility, and you could feel the weight of the recent events hanging heavily in the air. You knew this was in the making, and you knew Jey would pay for his impulsive actions. Roman continued his verbal onslaught, each word cutting through the room like a knife.

"You think you can just question Y/N's loyalty like that on live TV? Make her question her place in the Bloodline?  Because the only person who can question that is me, Jey. I'm the one who decides who's loyal and who's not. And you just made the whole world doubt us. You made the whole world question the unity of the Bloodline!!!"

Jey remained silent, the weight of Roman's words sinking in. The locker room was tense, everyone holding their breath, unsure of what would happen next.

"You disrespected Y/N, you disrespected me, and you disrespected the entire Bloodline." Roman's voice was cold, his disappointment turning into anger. "You need to understand your place, Jey. This is my show, my empire, and you will not jeopardize it with your impulsive decisions. Do you understand me?"

When Jey didnt answer, Roman grabbed Jey by the collar of his shirt, pulling him up to eye level. "Do you understand me?" he repeated, his tone demanding.

"He understands, Roman!" Sami was quick to heed to the defense of Jey, despite their differences. "He knows he messed up, and he won't make the same mistake again. Right, Jey?"

You watched the confrontation unfold, a knot forming in your stomach. The tension in the room was suffocating, and you felt a mixture of emotions — anger at Jey for causing this chaos, frustration at Roman for his authoritarian approach, and a deep sense of sadness at the fractures within the Bloodline.

Jey nodded, his eyes cast down, a mix of regret and submission on his face. "He's right, Roman. I understand."

Roman continued to stare at Jey for a moment, the intensity of his gaze unwavering. After what felt like an eternity, he released his grip on Jey's collar, letting him drop back into his seat. The room remained silent, the echoes of the confrontation lingering.

"You need to fix this, Jey. You need to make things right." Roman's stern warning hung in the air, a clear directive for Jey to rectify the damage he had done. "On Friday, you will publicly apologize to Y/N, and make it clear that the Bloodline stands united by taking out Sheamus. You will address the accusations, the doubts you cast on Y/N's loyalty, and you will do it in a way that reinforces the strength of the Bloodline."

Jey nodded again, this time with a deeper sense of determination. "I'll fix it, Roman. I promise."

Roman's gaze shifted to you, his eyes piercing through the room until they met Sami's. "You need to understand one thing." He moved closer to Sami until their faces were inches apart. "Never question my authority or the unity of the Bloodline again." His voice was low and threatening, and Sami nodded, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead.

"I won't, Roman. I'm just here to help," Sami replied, his voice shaky but submissive. Roman held his gaze for a moment longer before turning away, the tension in the room slowly dissipating.

You remained seated, the weight of the recent events settling heavily on your shoulders. The fractures within the Bloodline seemed deeper than ever, and you couldn't shake off the feeling that things might never be the same again.

Roman walked out of the locker room without saying another word, the door slamming shut behind him. The remaining members of the Bloodline exchanged uneasy glances, the aftermath of the confrontation still lingering in the air. Jimmy tried to place a hand on Jey's arm, but Jey pulled away, still processing the dressing down he received from Roman. The room was filled with a heavy silence, the tension palpable.

"Bro, you gotta chill out." Jimmy tried to comfort Jey, breaking the silence. "Roman's just looking out for the family. We'll get through this."

But Jey didn't acknowledgee Jimmy's words. He was looking at you, who was packing up your gear silently. The room felt like it was closing in on you, and you couldn't shake off the heaviness in your chest. Solo put a hand on your shoulder, offering a supportive squeeze, but you shrugged it off.

"Y/N, where are you going?" Sami asked, concern etched on his face. You didn't respond immediately, still processing the events that had unfolded.

"I need some air," you finally replied, your voice sounding more tired than usual. You stood up, slinging your bag over your shoulder, and made your way towards the door. Jey went to follow you, but both Jimmy and Solo grabbed his arms, holding him back. "Give her some space, Uce," Jimmy advised, his voice calm. "Sami, go with her. Make sure she's okay."

Jey wanted to glare at Jimmy and Solo for holding him back, but he knew deep down that he needed to give you the space you requested. He watched as Sami got up and followed you out of the locker room, leaving Jey alone with his thoughts.

You were halfway through the hallway when Sami caught up with you. He reached out, gently grabbing your arm to stop you. "Hey, Y/N, wait up."

You turned to face Sami, your expression a mix of exhaustion and frustration. "What, Sami? I just need some time alone."

"I know, I know," Sami said, his voice gentle. "I'm sorry for you and Jey going through all of this."

You shrugged, trying to maintain a facade of indifference, but Sami saw the genuine emotions beneath the surface. "It's whatever. Jey's a hothead, and we've had our fair share of arguments. But this... this feels different."

Sami  nodded in understanding. He watched as you fiddled with your gear, unsure of what to say. The weight of the situation hung in the air, and he knew that words alone wouldn't be enough to ease the turmoil within the Bloodline.

"I just want to make sure you're okay," Sami finally said, his concern evident. "For what it's worth, I don't think your loyalty should ever be questioned. You've been with the Bloodline, through thick and thin, and have been an amazing support to Roman and Jey."

You cleared your throat at his attempts to comfort you, feeling the tears threatening to spill over. It had been so long since you allowed yourself to feel vulnerable, but the recent events had taken a toll on your emotional resilience. "That's not true, Sami."

Sami scoffed at your self-doubt. "Oh please, without you they probably would be falling apart by now." His eyes widened at his words, and he nervously bit his lip, realizing that he might have crossed a line. "Please don't tell them I said that! Even if it is true."

You couldn't help but let out a small chuckle at Sami's awkward attempt to lighten the mood. "Don't worry, Sami. Your secret's safe with me." You looked up at him, your eyes glassy with unshed tears.

"Why doesn't he just trust me Sami? After everything we've been through, why does he have to question my loyalty on live television?" You broke down into a sob, and Sami automatically wrapped his arms around you in a comforting embrace.

The hallway seemed to echo with the weight of your emotions, and Sami held you close, offering the support you needed in that moment.

"I don't know, Y/N," Sami whispered, his voice filled with genuine empathy as he soothingly rubbed your back. "The pressure gets to him sometimes, and Roman expects a lot from him. It's not an excuse, but maybe he just doesn't know how to handle it all."

He pulled away slightly, wiping away the tears from your cheeks, his touch so soft that it felt like a gentle breeze. "But that doesn't excuse his actions. You deserve better, and you deserve to be treated with respect. If he can't see that, then maybe he doesn't fully understand what he has."

You leaned into Sami's arms on your own, finding solace in his comforting presence. The warmth of his embrace contrasted with the cold reality of the situation, but for that moment, it offered a sense of comfort.

"Will you be good against Kevin? I don't think I can be out there for the match." You spoke in a low, shaky voice, the emotional turmoil evident in your words.

Sami held you at arm's length, looking into your eyes with sincerity. "Don't worry about the match, Y/N. I'll take care of Kevin. You focus on yourself and what you need right now. We'll handle the rest."

You managed a weak smile, grateful for Sami's support. "You sure you don't need me with you out there?"

Sami nodded, offering reassurance. "I've got it covered. You just go rest, and I'll take care of Kevin." He knew if he lost, Roman would be furious, and he couldn't afford to let that happen. He needed to prove his worth to the Bloodline and, in a way, to you.

"Okay," you whispered, your voice barely audible. "Thanks, Sami."

Sami gave you a gentle smile, squeezing your hand before letting go. "Anytime. Now go take care of yourself, Y/N. You've been through a lot today." He watched as you nodded, offering a small smile before bringing him into a tight embrace.  

Sami held you for a moment longer before releasing you, allowing you to take the time you needed. He watched as you walked  away. Sami remained in the hallway, his mind racing with thoughts of the upcoming match and the turmoil within the Bloodline. But for now, his priority was making sure you were okay.

He wished that he could be the one to offer you the support you needed, but he wanted you in his life, even if it hurt his heart. As you walked away, Sami took a deep breath, steeling himself for the challenges ahead.

You were worth the pain. 

[kevinsdsy]

I know you ended the socmed au but if you have any Kevin and Shane hcs to share…

YES PLEASE I WOULD LOVE TO KEEP TALKING MY SHIT EVEN THO I’VE WRAPPED UP THE SOCMED AU HEHEHE and i was planning to do a headcanon post later so this is perfect 🙂‍↕️ (fair warning what’s red is nsfw ig)

before shane met kevin he literally had no idea whether he liked guys or not— he has never given sexuality much thought and was more of a ‘i see what happens, i like whoever i like who even cares’ kind of person

then he meets kevin day (and who isn’t in love with kevin fucking day) and he’s like oh. okay. i definitely like this guy.

he has his sexuality crisis for like twenty minutes and he’s like “do i really like kevin day? or is this just the kevin day effect everyone is talking about?” and then he’s like who even cares i need to make out with this guy and he immediately goes game on and just starts flirting.

at first kevin isn’t even sure what the deal is with shane. is he flirting? is he just a guy in sports? is he just being a trojan? and shane takes his oblivious act for like half a day and then is like “ok dude. i just figured out i apparently like guys and i would love to make out with you. and we only have a summer together before going back to our lives— so no time to waste. do you want this? yes or no? no pressure.” and kevin just gapes at him for a second before saying “what the fuck?” under his breath and then he decides oh whatever. they’re in paris and they end up making out 🙂‍↕️

and they keep making out. and if they’re not watching sports and they’re not with their friends, they’re most likely together.

they discuss A LOT of exy.

(sometimes they discuss exy while having sex/making out) ((i feel like kevin is insane enough to get off to that))

i have this headcanon that no one sleeps in their designated hotel rooms— so these guys wake up in each other’s rooms a lot of the time, but also they end up in god knows which room?? so people have definitely walked in on them (not during sex pls just a shirtless make out session) and everyone knows kevin day and shane reed are making out with each other this summer.

whenever anyone asks them about it they just shrug it off like: “we’re in paris.”

because at the end of the day it’s just going to be a summer fling.

they both end up back home, idek how many miles apart, but they’re not going to commit to an established relationship.

doesn’t stop them from texting. and making inappropriate jokes online. and having phone sex, but oh well.

we all have to go through our complicated situationships, do we not?

ntm when the foxes and trojans have to face each other again on court they’re being really professional about it and they’re competitive and all. until the last seconds of the game pass and they’re both stuck doing press and then when they’re finally done with press and exy— they find some time alone to “catch up”.

and with catch up i mean discussing their game in great detail while getting each other off.

and both of them return to their teams looking like hot messes and even though they’re behind closed doors both teams have an equal reaction to them entering and doing the walk of shame (except they’re both shameless)

“guess you had a chance to catch up with shane?” kevin just grunts while making his way towards the shower.

“kevin?” someone asks. and shane just proudly nods, while confirming “kevin 🙂‍↕️.” as he makes his way to the showers.

[aziraphales-library]

Heya!

I've read a LOT of GO fics in my time, but I can't remember if I've seen crossovers/AUs of the following movies with Aziraphale/Crowley, can you help please?

So my favourite rom coms of all time are the following, and I'd love GO versions (if they don't exist I may have to write them)!

French Kiss (Meg Ryan and Kevin Kline)

You've Got Mail (Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks)

When Harry Met Sally (Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal)

Runaway Bride (Julia Roberts and Richard Gere)

Never Been Kissed (Drew Barrymore)

I won't bother asking about Pretty Woman because I've read so many versions with either of them in either role lmaooo (and I have loved Every. Single. One.)

Or basically any late 80s/early 90s rom coms with Meg Ryan (except Sleepless in Seattle because I find it incredibly boring) or Julia Roberts!

Thank you so much for everything you do! You've helped me discover so many amazing fics and writers and it is much appreciated!!! 💖💖😇😎

Hello there!

Did you know there is a whole collection from the Good Omens Rom-Com Event that was run a couple years ago? You might find what you're looking for there! (Some of the fics are unfinished so keep that in mind)

We have previously recommended a bunch of You've Got Mail/She Loves Me fics HERE, so check those out.

As for the other ones you've asked about:

French Kiss AU:

A Bit of Crumpet by Fyre [E]

With a handsome, successful fiance and a respectable home in Manhattan, Aziraphale Fell thought his life was more than adequate. He never expected to be jilted in a long-distance telephone call and so he sets out for England to find out exactly what's going on and gets a lot more than he bargained for.

When Harry Met Sally AU:

it had to be you by curtaincall [M]

“What I’m saying,” said Aziraphale, looking fixedly ahead, “and please don’t take this as a personal insult in any way, is that an angel and a demon can’t be friends.”

“Why not?”

“Because,” said Aziraphale, firmly. “It’s against the order of things. You’re supposed to tempt. I’m supposed to thwart. We can’t go being friends.”

*

A canon-divergent AU inspired by When Harry Met Sally.

I don't know of any fics with your two last wishes but there is also:

Notting Hill AU:

Soho by Lurlur [E]

Aziraphale lives a quiet kind of life, running a quiet specialist bookshop in one of the liveliest districts of London. He's content with his lot, happy with his friends, tolerant of his probably-human housemate, living vicariously through the gossip pages.

One day, a chance encounter with Anthony Crowley, lead singer of wildly successful rock band The Demons, threatens to turn his whole world upside down.

Music and Lyrics AU:

pop! goes my heart by attheborder [E], WIP

When has-been musician Anthony Crowley is recruited by pop singer Anathema Device to write a song for her new record, he jumps on the chance to resuscitate his career with a hit. There's only one problem: he can't write lyrics to save his life.

But a chance meeting with a stranger by the name of Aziraphale, with a poetic streak that's a perfect fit for the song, changes everything for Crowley. Together, they'll create something beautiful, fight the forces of the music industry, and perhaps even find a way back into love...

A Music and Lyrics AU for the GO Rom Com Event, complete with all-new original songs written and recorded by the author!

Kate & Leopold AU:

Until by Nadzieja [T]

“I don’t want to go home.” Half-asleep Aziraphale murmurs into his ear and Crowley's heart clenches. His grip tightens reflexively around the warm soft body in his arms, around the smell of old books and sandalwood.

“Then don’t.” He’s trying not to sound like he's pleading, but his throat is tight and his voice hoarse.

*

Crowley lives his average life, working in a high-end advertising company at London that pays just enough to get him a room in a shared accommodation. That's just his luck that he ends up living with a literal witch. One day she brings home an even more eccentric man that has a taste for 19th century fashion, as if Crowley didn't have enough things to worry about. Little he knows that the man will turn his world upside down. Literally. And that's just the beginning of his problems.

~Mod N

[stabbyfoxandrew]

Hello! Know I actually set an alarm so I wouldn't forget to send an ask this time.

Would you please bless us with either vapdrew or angel Neil?

I really missed having the chance to ask for them. Thank you! Have a great day!

WIP Wednesday (6/5) | Vampire Andrew AU (Part 136)

After a couple weeks of silently lusting after Kevin and trying to keep his fangs to himself, Andrew finds it time for the Foxes to move back into the dorm. Of course, he and his bunch hadn’t left. Kevin needed to stay near the court and Andrew was able to talk the superintendent into letting them stay through the break. So the four of them have nothing to do today but watch as their teammates filter in and struggle up the stairs with their various junk.

Moving in last year had been a real treat for Andrew. You see, him having vampiric strength meant Nicky and Aaron unanimously voted him the Chief of Moving Heavy Furniture. And he’d brought in the couch, entertainment center, and TV all by himself. Those bastards. Well, at least it was funny hearing Boyd’s thoughts when he caught Andrew dragging the couch up the stairs behind him with one hand. 

(Andrew can very nearly pick up his car. A sofa is nothing.)

But yes, thanks to Kevin’s crippling inability to be more than five minutes from the court, Andrew has no plans today except sitting and staring out the window. And fidgeting a bit. After the third time his leg starts bouncing, Andrew lights up a cigarette and lets the nicotine settle his nerves.

Yes. He’s a bit anxious.

He hates to admit it, but starting today he’s only going to be a couple rooms away from Neil. Over the past month, he’s had the others step between them every time his blood calls out to Andrew. Which… Was a lot. He’s had to stop himself from lunging at the striker at least a dozen times. 

And that’s not even counting the handful of instances where he’s had an intrusive voice in his head telling him to track Neil down and have a bite. He’s still not sure what that is. And he doesn’t want to know. He’ll just keep tuning it out and everything will be fine as wine. 

‘You know exactly what I am. I’m you,’ says a whisper in Andrew’s ear and he slaps it away like a pesky fucking mosquito.

[asunsetgrace16]

Karaoke ⎥ Chicago Blackhawks

As per usual, I went with the players that I know. I have no idea what their music preferences are, this is purely based off vibes. This what I think the Chicago Blackhawk's go-to karaoke songs are.

masterlist

Connor Bedard - he knows every word to 'We Didn't Start the Fire' by Billy Joel for some reason that he never tells anybody. He is dared to sing it one day because it's an older song, so he does it perfectly and surprises every person in the room

Colin Blackwell - 'Love Story' by Taylor Swift. 100%

Jason Dickinson - a stunning rendition of 'Vienna' by Billy Joel

Ryan Donato - keeps it classic with 'Don't Stop Believin'' by Journey. It's very mid, but not bad

MacKenzie Entwistle - a horribly off-key version of 'Livin' on a Prayer' by Bon Jovi

Nick Foligno - claims he is too old for karaoke but sticks with the classics too and goes with either 'Hotel California' by Eagles or 'Under Pressure' by Queen

Taylor Hall - there's about a 55% chance he sings something Nickleback and the other 45% is 'Love Like This' by BlackHawk for some sentimental reason

Seth Jones - something Katy Perry, I feel like. No reason, just a feeling. More than likely it's 'Firework'

Kevin Korchinski - either something by Zach Bryan or a 'The Last Saskatchewan Pirate' by Captain Tractor duet with Reese Johnson (please tell me somebody will get it)

Philipp Kurashev - adorably accented version of 'Call Me Maybe' by Carly Rae Jepsen. Everybody loves it

Petr Mrazek - first an enthusiastic attempt at 'Dream On' by Aerosmith, then plays it safe with 'Sweet Caroline' by Neil Diamond, met with applause and sing-along

Connor Murphy - also claims he's too old for karaoke, then proceeds to whip the most excellent cover of 'It's My Life' by Bon Jovi out of his back pocket and absolutely floors everybody

Alex Vlasic - 'Shut Up and Dance' by Walk the Moon or 'Stacy's Mom' by Fountains of Wayne. Or some other 2000's hit

[the-phantoms-kiss]

I am sorry pt. 2

John Wick x Fem!Reader

Part 1 💖Some mention of Kevin Lomax 💖 2K

∘•···············•∘ʚ ♡ ɞ∘•················•∘

it has been 3 years since I stepped out of this place and swore never to come back. 3 years since I left a life I’d known all my life. 3 years since I had to learn to depend on someone else. Now it has been 3 days since I left my only home. 3 days since I was forced to learn to depend solely on my own. 3 days since I lost my love.

Now I stand here, outside the Continental with a suitcase in hand, contemplating on whether I should continue; on one hand, I would be provided with a temporary roof over my head, but on the other, there is a great chance that John would find me and order a ban on me. But I guess that is a risk I'll have to take otherwise I'll have to join King out on the streets and personally, the homeless style ain't my thing.

Upon entrance, a group of eyes falls on me, most in shock and some in displease. "Welcome back, Ms. Wilde, am I to assume that Mr. Wick will be joining us as well?" Charon spoke from behind the desk. "No, you are not. I'd like to meet with the manager please." "Of course, in the meantime, we will arrange your room, is your usual alright?" I simply nod, hand my suitcase to a nearby concierge, and head towards the lounge.

"It's nice to see you again Wilde, it has been quite a while since we have chatted." Winston pours me a drink as I sit on the comfy velvet of the couch. "Yes, far too long. I miss our old conversations. How have you been old man?" He chuckles a bit, "I've been alright. What about you? I doubt this is simply a visit." He could read me as if I were an open book, and to him I probably was. "I'd like to ask you for a favor Winston." I take a sip and he lets out a deep sigh. "Look, you know how much you matter to this hotel, but whatever is going on between you and John, I simply cannot partake." "I am not asking you to kill anyone, I'm simply asking you to let me stay here for a while and get a job. I'll take any sort of job, it doesn't have to be an assignment, I'm content with just being the maid." he looks relieved at my simple request. "Alright. From now on you will be the lead singer for our jazz performances, that is until you train to become an assassin again, I can't risk you dying on the first night back. I assume you told Charon to prepare your usual room?" I nod, "I'll send up a contract that states you will be an official employee for a month. if you have any questions or concerns call me. " "Thank you, Winston, truly, thank you." I take my leave.

Finally, a room that doesn't smell like cheap cologne and sweat. This room was basically a second home, and for a long time, it was my home. The shower was even better than expected, the mattress is softer than I remember it, and the view, god, how I've longed for this view of the city. I still remember the first time I stepped into this room, I'd never seen anything as luxurious as this room, the bathroom alone was bigger than my bedroom at my old apartment, and this living room covered both my apartment and my neighbors. I simply sat, on the same bed I am sitting on now. I recall thinking "If this is what being an assassin gets you, I am more than willing to avert my eyes for a few seconds just to get to sleep here." Knock Knock. This must be it, John must've found me, what will I say to him? Should I slap him in the face? No! What if he's come to apologize? What if he came to drop off the rest of my belongings? Am I to run into his arms like a helpless maid? No! What if I am too cold and he thinks I'm not worth the chase? Knock Knock. "I'm coming!"

I dramatically open the door, and give the biggest puppy eyes I could possibly muster while looking down at the floor for an ever greater effect. "Ms. Wilde, I am here to drop off the contract. Is everything alright you look quite ill." "Oh, hello, no, I mean yes... I am fine... are there any messages for me?" Charon looks confused now, and I feel incredibly embarrassed, "Ah yes," So he did know I was here! "The manager asked me to hand you this card, he'd like for you to buy appropriate clothing tomorrow." Wow, he truly could read me like a book! "Perfect! Thank you!" He nodded and walked away to resume his other tasks. He truly didn't care about me... that's alright, if I were him I wouldn't either.

"It's time for breakfast! Come on, it's time to get up sleepy head!" His voice was soft and gentle as it always was, and there was a soft scent of pancakes that I could barely make out through my sleepy state. "Just five more minutes love." As I haphazardly roll on my sides, he chuckles lightly, except, it's not his usual pitch, it's higher, shorter. "Ms. Wilde, it is 11am, you may want to consider waking up sometime soon." Ms. Wilde? John never calls me by my last name, let alone at 11am, 11am?!

I jolt up from the bed and fully awaken to see a tray with coffee and pancakes on the small round dining table, and on my nightstand, the clock shows 5 minutes past 11. I'm unsure who left this food here, but truly they were sent from the gods. The aroma pulled me closer to the food, forcing me to start the day.

Most of the day was spent in various shopping centers trying to make up for all the clothes I'd left back at our house. His house. This would be the last shop of the evening before heading back to the hotel. Now I must try on this dress before being able to check out. The dress was stunning, tight fitting, yet modest, it was enough to catch a stranger's attention. "How much?" I quickly turn towards the voice, it was a young man, quite handsome, "I'm sorry?" "The dress, you look splendid in it, I'll pay for it." "Oh no, It's far too expensive I couldn't let you do that, but thank you." Boy when was the last time I received such a compliment, I hate to admit that it made me blush, "It wasn't a request. You can pay me back by taking me to dinner." He's got a confident smirk, "I am flattered, but, I must decline. I just got out of a relationship and am not ready." He nods and hands me a card, "I understand, just give me a call if you ever want to talk." He stands up and signals for a worker to come, "Excuse me miss, please baggage that dress and anything else she desires." He hands her his credit card and she walks away, "You really don't have to!" I move towards him, I can't just let him splurge on me so easily! "Non-sense, I can and so I must. I must go back to my job now, have a nice day." and before I could retaliate he takes back his Credit Card, from the employee who had just returned, and walks out the doors. I can't even chase after him as in this dress. The employee is now helping me out of the dress with the biggest smile I've ever seen, "He's awfully nice for a stranger isn't he?" She's got a southern accent, "Nice isn't the right word, trusting is better suited." She just chuckles at my response.

"I am assuming your shopping spree went well?" Winston asks as he sees me walking into the hotel. A concierge is behind me carrying all sorts of bags and boxes. "Yes, you seem to be correct. I met the strangest man not too long ago, he bought me a dress without even looking at the tag. Isn't it charming, the great lengths men will go to just to get a date? Of course, I rejected him several times but he kept insisting, even without the promise of dinner. I remember when John was like that..." He smiled, walking with me towards the elevator. "Well, for both our sakes I hope the dress was worth it because we have an important guest tonight." "We have important guests every night" "He's a businessman." "Ah, that kind of important, well, I must get ready then. Thank you for the money." He smiles and walks away, his hands behind his back.

After what felt like an eternity I am finally ready, my makeup is done, my hair is up in a vampy hairdo, the romantic olive dress on from earlier, and my simple Mary Jane. Now it's simply time to warm up a bit, review my songs, and go down and perform. Though I've done harder things it's nerve-racking performing once to an audience again, I'm so used to it only being John. I wonder if he'll come, I know he probably won't, and even if he does he's sure to ignore me, I just hope that maybe he'll come and say he's sorry. But that is silly and dumb and would never happen so I should get going now before I'm late.

It's now about to strike 11, and I've just finished my last song, thankfully things went on without a hitch and I can finally go back to my room and sleep. "Ah, Ms. Wilde, would you do us the honor of joining us?" Winston spoke from a booth, the booth was seemingly empty aside from him, he must be imagining things. "Of course! Where's the important guest?" I take a seat across from Winston, "He went to the restroom he'll be right back." He offers me a glass and pours whisky into it. We talk for a few minutes as we wait for his associate to come back. "Sorry for the wait, now where were we?" The man from the shop smiles at Winston and sits beside me, a slightly shocked reaction. "How lovely of you to join us! You know, when I asked you out to dinner earlier I meant us two alone, but, I'll take what I can get." He grins taking a sip from his glass, "Ha ha, very funny. I'm the singer for the Jazz band." "Oh evidently so, I don't doubt it for a minute. You sound as wonderful as you look, and I didn't think anything could come so close." It's obvious he's just being playful but the look that Winston gives me says otherwise. We introduced ourselves to each other formally and resumed talking about business. He was as every bit kind as he seemed, quite funny too. "Well Mister Lomax, it was lovely meeting you, and once again, I owe you one for this dress." "It was my pleasure, Miss Wilde. Until we see each other again." he gave a slight bow and promptly walked towards the exit. Looking back to wave goodbye he bumped into someone and quickly apologized. Had it been someone else they would have simply kept walking, but of course, that is not the way life goes and so it had to be the one and only John Wick with whom he'd bumped into.

Well... surely this won't bite me in the ass. Yeah right, maybe in another universe, in this one John is looking at me more so irritated than when I last saw him, and I didn't think that'd be possible. Tonight would be a long night.

[sixamese-simblr]

The Bearchelor: Episode 3

Previously on the Bearchelor...

Kevin: "Max. You're genuinely not the brightest, but you're a really nice guy, and I want to see what more there is to you."

Max: "Does that mean I win? I won! Gooo Llamas!"

And coming up...

Kevin: "I sincerely doubt that the "butt grope" is a legitimate dance move, but honestly I don't care."

It's a new day in the Bearchelor pad. As the 6 remaining contestants are getting ready for the day's activity, Castor puts the moves on our bachelor Kevin.

Kevin: "Don't you think you're getting a little too familiar too early? It's only the third day!"

Castor: "Kev, we've lived together since orientation. I've showered you that time when you threw up on yourself from too much juice at a party."

Kevin: "My stomach just does not like that much apple juice, okay?"

Today's activity is a dancing challenge! Each of our contestants gets a chance to dance with the bachelor.

Kevin: "Left, left... no, other left! Max, that's my foot!"

Jared: "I call this move "the cuddle"."

Kevin: "I sincerely doubt that the "butt grope" is a legitimate dance move, but to be honest I don't care."

Aldric: "I've got this in the bag, I've done several years of dance classes because mom said it would help me make friends. It did not work."

Almeric: "I'm not a great dancer, but I hope if I stare into his eyes enough I can distract him from that."

Kevin: "So uhhh... Gunnar, aren't you coming to dance?"

Gunnar: "Nah, that seems gay."

The contestants gather outside for the elimination.

Kevin: "Almeric, Castor, Jared, each one of you are terrible dancers but I don't really care because I like you. Aldric, you were the only one who could dance, and I like you too. You all move on to the next round."

Kevin: "Max. Please don't ever dance with me again. Gunnar. What part of dating show do you not understand?

The person I've chosen to move on to the next round is...

Max.

Gunnar, even though you're not my type I've enjoyed getting to know you."

Gunnar: "Nah it's cool. I understand some people are intimidated by all this. Give me a call when you want me back."

Gunnar: "Nah, I've heard it so many times. Sometimes people aren't ready to admit they're into me. They always come around. Nobody can resist the Gun show."

[sanaxo-o]

Forced Love (Kim Sunwoo)

[Yandere themes. Contains stalking, murder and what not. 6k+ words. Enjoy :) idk what else to write 😪]

Run

That's all you had in mind. Run. No matter what just keep on running. You knew this was one of the only chance you will get. No way you were gonna miss it. All you had to do was get to the roadside and look for someone who could save you. You knew that you could not make it out at night. Looking around, you climbed on the highest tree in hopes of not getting caught. Your adrenaline rush made you lose all your sleep.

Relaxing for a bit but still being alert you carefully looked down...seeing how Sunwoo was looking around while looking for you. You held in your breath as you saw how he stopped right under you. One wrong move and you're done for...he stopped for a while as he was catching his breath. As he started running again you finally took a deep breath.

You stayed on the tree till Sunwoo came back again. As soon as he came back you waited for some time to make sure you were not caught. After a while you slowly got down and started running towards the road side.

You have been running for quite awhile. You frantically looked around for a place from where you could call your sister. You knew it was best to call from a telephone. On a distance you saw a telephone booth. It looked quite old so you hoped that it would still work. Immediately running there you removed the few coins you had stollen from Sunwoo.

You waited for the other other line to pick....ring after ring..."Hello?"

As soon as I heard her voice my tear's started flowing. "Miyeon..." "Y/N? Is...is that really you??" I could hear how shocked she was. Chocking back my sob "Yes...can you come pick me up? I don't know where I am. I am really scared. It's a blessing I still remember your number. I am really scared unnie..." forming these words got more hard as you started noticing how much of a bad condition you were in. "Stay...stay where you're! I will track your location down with police help! I am coming, hmm?" "Please come fast. I can't hold up any longer. And I don't know on when he will come back again. Please I don't want to go there again unnie." "I am coming. Just be on the line!"

Those small minutes felt like hours. Being here was already hard enough knowing Sunwoo can come here anytime. As I was about to doze of I saw a car coming in front of me. Looking up I saw Miyeon coming out of the drivers seat. I immediately stood up and ran towards her.

"Oh my god. Y/N...baby you look so thin. Come on. Sit." Saying that she made me sit beside her as she immediately started the car. As soon as I came in the care of my sister I immediately dozed of because of fatigue and lack of sleep.

"Y/N...wake up." I slowly pried my eyes open as I saw that we were in a drive thru. "Would you like some burger and chicken wings?" I nodded at whatever she said. "Here. Have some Matcha latte till we get the order." I slowly took the drink from her hand as I took a sip of it. With a content sigh I slowly looked out the window. "For...how long was I missing?" I asked slowly as I turned my head towards Miyeon... "6 months. Each day felt like hell knowing you were in trouble. I tried everything. I even called Kevin to look for you but there were no traces of you. It's like.....you just disappeared." I took in everything she said. I knew that I was missing for a long time but almost a year? Who would have known what would have happened if I wouldn't have escaped Sunwoo....

"Oh here. Eat up. With Kevin's help I have booked a flight for both of us. We will board the flight tomorrow night. It is the best if you don't contact anyone....we're going back to mom and dad. Joshua is also with them. Don't contact anyone till we're in the plane."

I nodded my head as I took a bite of my burger. I was definitely not going to take any risk of getting caught. So contacting anyone else is something I would not even think about.

🐾The next day 🐾

I was packing all my clothes in my luggage. I am not at all gonna take anything thing else from here rather then the clothes same goes to Miyeon. Who knows what Sunwoo might have done to them.

We even bought a new pairs of shoes in case there was a tracking device on the previous ones. Right now Kevin was in my room helping me pack my clothes.

"Well I guess that's all...." I said as I looked around the room incase I left something... "thank you for coming to help me Kev. I really appreciate it.."

"It's okay Y/N. Oh by the way I will also come to Canada after settling some things here."

"Please be careful now that you will be alone here. I don't trust Sunwoo. Settle everything as fast as possible." I was worried that Sunwoo might hurt Kevin. Knowing how he can get I was worried about Kevin's safety.

"Don't worry. I can take care of myself. I will make sure not to be out late at night. Come on. Let's order some Chinese food." We that we both exited my room as we went to the living room.

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I was busy keeping my bag in the backseat as Miyeon was having some talk with Kevin. I sighed as I waited for her and Kevin to come. Miyeon came and sat in the backseat as Kevin sat in the drivers seat.

He started the car as soon as they both got in.

As we were on our way to the airport I kept looking out the window.

"What's bothering you?" I heard Kevin ask as I looked at him. I shrugged my shoulders as I looked out the window again.

"I...I don't know. I am just worried that what if Sunwoo finds me again. Just nervous that's all."

"Hey you don't have to worry. Nothing will happen to you there. We will make sure of that. I will make sure of that. You can also pursue your career in literature how you always wanted to. I know some great universities and Joshua is also there for you."

I sighed as I nodded my head. I am just overthinking probably. Nothing can go wrong. We just have to board this plane and this nightmare will come to an end. I closed my eyes as I wanted to have some peace.

"Um...Kev...do you see that car? I think we're being followed..." as soon as I heard what Miyeon said I shot my eyes open as I looked at the rear view mirror. Seeing that car bought back...memories. Unwanted memories. I looked at Kevin. "That's...that's Sunwoo's car Kev. What do we do now??" I said nervously as I glanced at him. He had a straight face on as she slowly started speeding up.

"Kevin you can't stay here. He knows you now. You have to come with us. It's dangerous for you to stay here alone. Once we get to the airport he won't be able to do anything in front of all those people. Let's book a flight for you, if we can find one with us it's better. I can't let you be alone here." Miyeon said as she contacted someone on her phone.

"Yes Kev. You can't stay here any longer. At least alone. Sunwoo is dangerous. You will have to come with us." I said that as I rubbed his hand in assurance which was on the side.

Kevin glanced at me as he gave me a small smile. "I will. Don't worry. I can't leave you alone there when I know  what you have been going through."

I grew anxious every passing second. As soon as we got to the airport me and Miyeon went out of the car as we took our bags. Miyeon had called one of our close friends to come and pick up our car.

From my side I could see Sunwoo getting out of the car making me panic. Miyeon immediately took my hand as we ran in the airport. Kevin went ahead to get a ticket for himself.

"Did you get a ticket?" I asked as I nervously looked at him

"Yes. Luckily there was one seat left. Come on now."

We immediately boarded the plane. As we sat down on our respective seats I looked at Miyeon with a worried look.

"Sunwoo now knows that we're going to Canada....we can't stay there...what do we do now??" I asked as I started biting my nails in nervousness.

"Don't worry. As soon as we get of this plane we will immediately board the plane which will take us to LA. We can't stay a night in Canada. It will be dangerous. You stay here. I will go and talk with Kevin about this." Saying that she kissed my forehead as she walked away.

Sighing I decided to take a nap.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

We just got of the plane. Miyeon was booking our flight tickets as we both sat down. I was looking around as Kevin spoke up

"You up for Starbucks? I am thirsty and we could use some coffee to keep us awake." I nodded at him as I stood up.

Me and Kevin went to Miyeon to ask her if she wanted anything. After that we both went to Starbucks. As we gave our order to the cashier we both sat down at a vacant table.

"So what are you gonna do in LA? You got dragged in all of this because of me." I said that as I looked at Kevin with a small pout on my lips.

"Hey. None of this is your fault. I decided to help you. And I can do some work there. Till we settle down I can work in a cafe or something. Then I can start my art there too. Let's see what life brings ahead of us. Cheer up now." I nodded as I gave a small smile to Kevin.

We went back to Miyeon once we got our order.

"Where's my sandwich and drink?" She asked me as soon as she saw me.

"Calm down woman. Here's your order. I may have drank some of your drink." As soon as I said that she glared at me and hit me on my head. "Where's your food?" Miyeon asked as she took a bite of her sandwich. I looked at Kevin as he passed me my food.

"At what time is the flight?"

"In a hour or so. We will reach LA late  at night. So we will have to book a hotel room for us. I already looked for some nice hotels there. You both can choose one amongst yourself." I nodded as I took a bite of sandwich. Silence fell upon us as we enjoyed our food.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

We all boarded our plane to LA. It has been a while since we're on the plane. Miyeon and Kevin were asleep. I couldn't get myself to sleep again. This all still feels like a dream. Escaping from Sunwoo and now getting away from him.

I was lost in my thoughts when I heard Miyeon shuffling in her sleep. I looked at her as she slowly opened her eyes. She looked at me as she gave a small smile to me.

"Can't sleep? Something bothering you?" She asked as she drank some water. I slowly shook my head as a no as I placed my head on her shoulder. She slowly started patting my head in a soothing manner as I started speaking.

"I just can't grasp the situation fully yet. I am still processing. In a short amount of time a lot has happened. I just wish....it stays this way." I said that as I stared up at Miyeon. She looked down at me as she booped my nose making me whine lowly.

"I also wish that nothing more bad happens. Well on the bright side...mom, dad and Joshua will be here in LA till Sunday. They have a house here in LA. We can stay there. Now come on. Get some sleep. I will wake you up once the food comes." I shook my head at her words.

"Let's talk....order some coffee. Let's have some talk. I wanna catch up with you." I said that as I looked up at her. Miyeon smiled widely at my words as she immediately ordered coffee for us.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

We just got of the plane. I stretched my body as me and Kevin waited for Miyeon to come. We three took a cab to our hotel. We had already booked a room for us. We were staying in the same room....Miyeon said that it's the safest this way for now. Incase something at night happens we will be there for each other to protect us.

"Kev...can you order something sweet for me?" I said that as I was doing my night routine. Kev looked at me as he sighed.

"Y/N...we're about to go to sleep. Do you have to eat something sweet?" I nodded my head eagerly as he shook his head while getting to the telephone.

Once the food came. I shared some of it with Miyeon and Kev. I brushed my teeth after eating as I went to bed.

"Can we get myself a phone or something? I would need it anyways." I said that as I was getting my bed ready. I saw how Miyeon nodded her head.

"We will get a MacBook for you. Mom already transferred some money in Kevin's account. We can go there tomorrow."

🐾The next day🐾

I wore a a pair of shorts with a crop top and a pastel colour cardigan on top. Me and Miyeon headed out as Kevin was getting ready.

As we reached the mall I immediately went in the store.

"Are we only gonna buy a MacBook for me?" I said as I look at Miyeon and Kevin. Kevin shook his head as he came beside me.

"We're gonna get ourselves a phone. We will get new sims for both of us same goes to your once we buy a phone for you. For now a MacBook should do..."

"But won't I need a phone to use a MacBook? I can't use my old iCloud account." I looked at Miyeon with a questionable gaze.

"Oh...you're right. Let's also buy a phone for you." I clapped my hands as we started looking for a phone.

After we were done shopping we went to a nice restaurant which was in the mall.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

It was Sunday today. We three went to the airport to pick up mom, dad and Joshua.

As were were waiting for them I saw a familiar figure coming out of the airport.

"Shua! Here!" I heard Miyeon scream on top of her lungs.

The figure who was supposedly Joshua looked at us as he went back inside. In a while he came back outside with mom and dad.

My eyes immediately welled up with tears as I ran towards my dad and hugged him.

"Look at you. All grown up." He said that as he caressed my hair in a loving manner. I broke the hug as I looked at my mom.

"Why have you grown so tall? You're taller then me now. And were you not eating anything. Look how thin you've become." She kept going on as I just hugged her. Breaking the hug I looked at Joshua as he opened his arms.

I immediately went and hugged him as he caressed my back. "Gosh...peaches. You're still a cry baby."

"How can I not cry?! I missed you so much when I was in Korea. Especially at that time." We both broke the hug as Miyeon was with mom and dad.

Kevin and Joshua hugged each other as we all went and sat in the car.

"Y/N do you wanna eat some food before going home?" I heard mom ask from the front seat. I shook my head as I just wanted to go home and rest in my room there.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

It has been a while since we all settled here in LA. My life here was getting better. I got into a good university with Kevin's help. I was starting to get more comfortable with Miyeon then I was before.

You can also say that I might have a potential boyfriend. We have not started dating yet because of my past trauma but he was okay with it. He was okay to wait for me which I was glad about.

Right now me, Miyeon, Kevin, Joshua and Minhee were in this cafe we just found.

I was just sitting while listening to music when Kevin removed my headphones and screamed in my ear.

"What is wrong with you!" I screamed at him as I rubbed my ears. He just smiled at me as he started speaking.

"Go and order some drinks for us. You're the only one who is sitting here and doing nothing. All of us are busy doing work unlike you." I just glared at him as I kicked him under the table while standing up.

"Fine. What do you guys want?" I asked as I stood beside Minhee.

"Strawberry milkshake for me!" Miyeon said as she gave me her wallet.

"Americano for me and Caramel Java Chip Frappuccino for Kevin." I looked at Minhee as he stood up.

"I will come with you. You can't bring all of this on your own." He said that as I smiled shyly. Joshua saw me as he nudged both Miyeon and Kevin.

I just walked away from there as fast as possible knowing how they will tease me. I went to the front as I waited for someone to come and take our order.

In less then a minute a guy came out. He looked a bit older then us. He stared at me for awhile before he started speaking. Minhee must have noticed that as he protectively held his hand on my waist.

"Hi. What would you like to order?" The guy said as his eye's never left my face. I slowly went and stood beside Minhee trying to hide myself as much as possible.

"A strawberry milkshake, Two Americano's, one One Caramel Java Chip Frappuccino and what do you want Y/N." my attention immediately went to Minhee as I answered his question.

"Chocolate chip Frappuccino for me." I said as I held Minhee's hand more tightly.

We were told that they will come and serve our drinks to our table so we went back there.

I slowly sat down as I looked at Minhee "Did you also find that guy weird or was it just me?" Minhee gave me a nod as he took a seat beside me.

"Even I found him weird. Maybe it's just our mind playing games with us." After that till our order came we talked about some random things.

In a while the same guy came back to our table with our orders. The more I looked at him the more he looked familiar to me.

"Hi I am Eric and here is your order. Hope you guys enjoy it." As soon as I heard that name I started thinking more.

I have heard that name somewhere...where was it? Was it-

"Y/N? Yah!" I heard Miyeon yell as she kicked me under the table. I rubbed the part where she kicked me as I looked at her with a annoyed expression.

"Stop kicking me will you?" I said as I took my Frappuccino from Kevin's hand who was about to take a sip.

"What were you thinking about?? You looked so lost." Joshua said as he took a sip of his americano. I shook my head as I took a sip of my drink.

"That Eric guy...he looked oddly familiar to me. Even his name. It's as if I have seen him somewhere. I just can't recall where." I said as I started thinking again.

"It must be nothing. Your mind must be just playing games. Stop thinking about him."

"Maybe you're right..."

We all were just enjoying our time together. We didn't even realise that it was starting to get dark outside.

We immediately packed our things as we exited the cafe. As I was the last person to do so. I looked inside the cafe again to see that Eric guy staring at me.

I immediately exited the cafe after seeing that.

"It is her. I am sure of it. I even saw that Kevin guy with her and her sister. But the thing is...there was this dude with her. He was way to close to her for your liking."

"When are you coming? Till Monday? Okay. Yeah sure...I will keep an eye on her...Sunwoo don't worry."

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

It has been a few days since we went to that cafe. After that small incident I stopped going out a lot. Scared something might happen.

Whenever I went out it felt like I was being followed but I didn't see anyone. That's why I now always carry pepper spray with me. I make sure that it is with me.

I was in my room doing some of my university work when Joshua entered my room. I looked at him as I went back to what I was doing.

"Y/N~ can you do me a favour?" Joshua said as he sat down on my bed. I turned my chair towards him as I told him to go ahead.

"We're out of ramen. Can you go and bring some?? And also bring some ice cream? Please."

I sighed as I stood up while nodding my head. I have been locked up inside this room for way to long. Might as well go and do some work.

I went out of my room with him following me. 

"Do you only want ramen and ice cream?? Nothing else?" He nodded his head as I stepped out of the house. I put on my hoodie as I started walking ahead with my hands in my sweatpants pockets.

As I was getting close to the convenience store I felt like I was being followed again. I slowly turned my head around trying not to look suspicious as I saw a figure walking behind me.

I almost froze as I immediately recognised that figure. No it can't be....I removed my phone from my pocket acting as if I was changing the song.

I clutched the pepper spray in my hoodie pockets tightly as I entered the store.

I immediately called one of my university friends. Calling Minhee could put him in danger. I don't want that. She lives really close to the store so she can reach here in two minutes or so.

"Hey...um can you come to the convenience store near your house. I am there right now...yeah. Sure."

I went to the ramen section as I picked some of them. I put them in the basket I took on the way here as I went to get some ice cream.

As I was getting the ice cream I felt the presence beside me. I tried ignoring him but he held my hand when I put it in the fridge.

"Long time no see...puppy." I immediately froze when he started talking. I looked at him for a brief second as I pulled my hand away from him.

I took the ice cream as I went to the cashier but before I could get there Sunwoo stopped me and turned me around.

"I looked for you everywhere and this is where you came? Tell me how more dumb can you get."

He said that as he held my jaw and came close to my face. I immediately pushed him away from me.

"Stay away from me. I don't want anything to do with you! You ruined my life enough already. Please don't ruin it more. Just stay away..." I said those words as I rushed to the cashier.

The cashier saw my distressed face as he asked me if I was okay. I nodded my head and kept looking back. As soon as I got my stuff I left the store. I knew he was gonna follow me so I kept the pepper spray bottle close to me.

As I was walking I saw my friend, Erica coming in this direction. I immediately ran towards her as I hugged her tightly.

"Y/N? Hey. What happened? Why do you..." her voice trailed of as she saw a figure standing not so far away from us. As if she understood what happened she took my hand as we headed to my house.

She took the keys from my hand as she opened the door.

"Miyeon! Are you home?" Erica yelled as she took me to the couch. She went away and came back in less then a minute with a glass of water.

I took the glass in my hand but it kept on shaking so Erica took it and helped me in drinking water.

Soon we heard footsteps coming downstairs. I was still in shock so I didn't even care to look up. I brought my legs up to my chest as I stared at nothing.

"Y/N? What happened peaches?" I heard Joshua asking as he rushed towards me. He immediately sat beside me as he took me in his embrace.

I started crying in his embrace.

"Erica...what happened?"

"I don't know actually. She called me a while ago saying that she is being followed and told me to come to the convenience store. As I reached there she immediately ran up to and hugged me. She was shaking badly till I reached there. When I looked back there was a man standing there in all black. Taking the clue I immediately brought her here."

"I see...thank you for bringing her Erica. Why don't you stay here. I don't think it's safe for you to go out now."

As I calmed down till then everyone was already there. I slowly sat straight and brought my knees near my chest.

"He is back...Sunwoo is back." I said quietly but they heard it.

"Are you sure?" Joshua asked as he looked around to see everyone's faces.

"I am sure Shua. I saw him. He talked with me. I am scared. I am scared to be alone. I am scared to even step outside of this house."

My tears slowly rolling down my cheeks. Joshua again hugged me as he rocked me back and forth.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

It has been a week or so since I had that encounter with Sunwoo. I was always in my room the entire time.

Minhee came to check up on me from time to time. I was thankful for that. I just wanted all of this to end.

Today was a bit different tho. Today was Miyeon's birthday. She wanted to go to this club which is near my university. I never really had any reason to go there until today.

I got dressed in a black short dress as I wore a pair of heels. I didn't want to go but because today is her birthday I decided to do what she wants.

It was already 8 pm. I went downstairs to see Miyeon and Joshua together. Kevin and Minhee were not in sight. I was about to ask them about Minhee when Joshua beat me to it.

"Minhee and Kevin both are in the car peaches. Come on. Let's get going." I nodded as we three exited the house.

🐾In the club🐾

"Why did I agree to this again?" I said as soon I entered the club. Miyeon just pushed me so that I can walk ahead.

"Have some fun. Relax and chill out a bit. You worry to much." I shrugged at Miyeon's words as I went to get myself a drink.

"We all are going to the VIP room. Come there once you get the drinks." I heard Kevin say as they all went ahead except for me and Minhee.

"So...how are you holding up?" Minhee asked as he waited for our drinks to arrive. I shrugged while looking around. "It's so so. I know that anything can happen so I still have my pepper spray with me." Minhee smiled at me as he ruffled my hair a bit.

As soon as the drinks arrived we headed towards the room. As we entered the room we saw the three of them doing...something. We just set the drinks on the table as they all took one for each.

🐾Few hours later🐾

"Miyeon stop drinking! Kevin stop whatever you're doing! Minhee Y/N! Help me. Come on guys. It's late already we have to go home- no Miyeon!" We all looked at Miyeon as she started puking.

I sighed as I went towards her and held her hair up. "Shua you clean her up. I will go and find someone who can clean this up." "Take someone with you" I shook my head as I headed outside "I will be fine. I will be back in no time!"

I exited the room as I looked for a staff who could clean all the mess we created. As I was looking around I saw a figure leaning against the wall towards the washroom. I was about to head back when I saw Eric in front of me.

I gulped as I looked at that figure again. I decided to go past him but he held my hand as he dragged me with him. Coming to a abrupt stop I saw Sunwoo in front of me. 

"Had fun puppy? Now how about you come back to me?" He said that as he rubbed his thumb on my lower lip. I sighed as I looked for a way to get out of this situation. "Eyes here puppy. I am speaking with you!"

"Why don't you just stay the hell away from me? What did I ever do to you!"

"I am like this because of you! It's all your fault I am obsessed!" I scoffed at his words as I moved my hair back.

"I never even talked with you! Hell I didn't even know you existed till you came in front of me that day!"

"That's the thing! You didn't do anything yet I am behaving like this crazed maniac! All you have to do is submit yourself to me! Do that and we can live happily!” He said all that as he kept coming close to me.

I took slow steps back. When I knew that Eric wasn't paying attention I immediately pushed him hard as I ran out of there.

I didn't even make it till my room when I was pulled somewhere. Before I could scream I was hit on my head with something heavy.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

I woke up to my body hurting all over. I looked around but I couldn't see anything. My whole body was paining.

As I was trying to figure things out I heard the door open and close. I tried my best to stay calm but the minute the cloth was removed from my eyes my blood ran cold.

There stood Sunwoo in front of me with blood all over his clothes. I hoped that what I was thinking was not true.

"It looks like my puppy is awake now. Wanna know what I did with Miyeon? But I am afraid you will feel sick while hearing all of that. Why don't I just take you to her?" Before I could even respond he harshly held my wrist as he pulled me up.

Now looking down I saw how there were numerous cuts on my whole body. I was walking wherever Sunwoo was taking me.

He stopped in front of a room making me halt my steps. "I am telling you. All of this happened because of you puppy." As he said that he opened the door.

Fresh smell of blood hit my nose making me gag. I looked around in horror. Miyeon and Kevin were in this room. They both were badly injured. Injured might also be the wrong word. They looked dead.

"You can consider them dead at this point. They shouldn't have helped you to be fair. Face the consequences." My legs gave up on me as I fell down on the cold ground. Tears streaming down my face endlessly.

"Why...why are you doing this to me?" I lowly whispered as I looked at Kevin and Miyeon.

"I told you puppy. Do something unforgivable...then you face the consequences. Hell you ran away from me for months. Now get up. You would now also want to check up on your little lover boy. Eric took care of him. Hope he didn't do much damage to him and your brother."

Seeing that I had no signs of getting up myself he picked me up as he took me to another room. I kept staring at Miyeon and Kevin as tears didn't stop for a moment.

Sunwoo and I entered the room. I gasped as I saw Eric making cuts on Minhee. As soon as Sunwoo put me down I was ready to run towards him when Sunwoo held my hand again.

"Where do you think you're going?" Sunwoo asked as he glared at me. "You will kill him! Stop it. Please. I...I give up." I yelled as I kept on trying to break free from Sunwoo's grip.

"Y/N that is not how it works dear. To be fair...this guys life is in my hands." I heard Eric say as he walked towards us.

"You want me right? Please let them go at least. I will do anything, hmm? No more, plz.” I pleaded as I hoped these two will listen to me.

"No more." Sunwoo walked towards Minhee

"Y/N...I...I love yo.." before he could even finish his sentence Sunwoo shot him dead.

"Nooooo!" I yelled as my legs gave up on me.

"Why are you crying over him!? He is nothing to you! I should be the only one that should matter to you!" Sunwoo yelled as he came towards me.

"You...you killed him...you killed everyone I love. There is nothing left for me all because of you!" I yelled as I glared up at him.

"We will get that attitude out of you but before that.." he turned back as I followed his gaze. My eyes widened as I shook my head.

"Sunwoo...please no don't do it. I..." before I could even finish my words I heard the clicking of the gun and he shot him.

I screamed as I saw Joshua dead in front of me.

"You can't do this to me! Let me go please." I kept thrashing around in Eric's arm as he tried calming me down.

Seeing no response from Sunwoo I screamed more. Slowly my body started giving up and soon everything went dark.

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

I entered the room Y/N was in. I slowly put the first aid box down as I started treating her wounds trying not to wake her up.

After I was done I stared at her as I moved some strands of her hair away from her eyes.

"Why did you have to runaway? I thought we were doing good." I said as I looked at her sleeping figure.

Looking at her like this in this condition made me feel bad. I knew that she shouldn't go through this...but I can't live without her. She is everything I got.

Sighing I stood up and exited the room and locked it from outside. I stood outside the room as I was lost in my thoughts.

"Everything alright?" I turned my head to the voice and saw Eric coming out of his room. I merely nodded my head as I started walking downstairs.

"Now that you got Y/N...what will you do?"

"I...I will go back to Korea once she recovers. I wanna start new. I don't want her to be scared of me."

"She will come along...soon. I mean I hope she does."

🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾

I stared out of the window as I had nothing to do. I was to weak and hurt to escape right now and the door was locked.

Soon enough I heard the door unlocking as Sunwoo stepped inside.

"Hey...here. Your breakfast." He said as he kept the food in front of me. I pushed the food away from me as I heard him sigh.

"You haven't eaten anything since yesterday. Have some please. You're already weak." I shook my head at his words as he sat down in front of me.

"Puppy...don't make me mad. Eat this. Now." I stared at him for a bit as I took the plate in my hand and took a bite. "Eat everything. You will need some energy to argue with me."

After awhile I was done. I set the plate down as I took some sips of water.

"Y/N....once you're healed. We will go back to Korea. Everything is over. Only you and me. You don't need anyone else. I am all you will ever need now." As he said that he kissed my forehead and stood up.

Before he could exit I spoke up "You're a fucking maniac Kim Sunwoo...you're forcing your love on. I will never love you." I said as I wiped my cheeks.

He turned around as he spoke with his hands in his pockets "Call it whatever you want Forced Love or not...you're still mine. At the end of the day. I am everything you got puppy." He exited the room before I could reply.

Tears slowly started flowing down my eyes. I really am stuck with him now. There is no one who can help me out now.

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