#Priyanka Maheswaran mention

[screwpinecaprice]

What's Dr. Maheswaren's reaction to this?

I think she (and the rest of both side's folks) would be thrilled to have a grandkid. Perhaps there's like a flash of "it's time" in her head and she pulls up these baby prep related stuff to unpromptedly hand the couple. Lol

[popculturegenealogy]

Deception, the Diamonds, and the Truth: Steven Universe's family tree

Steven unsure what to think of his mom, as shown in the episode, "An Indirect Kiss" in Season 1

Steven Quartz Universe, the protagonist of my favorite animated series, Steven Universe, has a non-traditional family tree, although it is not affected by time travel and distortion as Philip Fry's tree is in Futurama. His family is unique but has some features of typical families. [1] Warning, that there are some spoilers about major plotlines in the show here, just a heads up.

Reprinted from my Genealogy in Popular Culture WordPress blog. Originally published on August 4, 2020.

Using various fandom pages, here is a rough chart I produced:

This chart leaves a lot of questions. For one, who are the parents of Greg's parents? They would be Steven's great-grandparents. Additionally, who are the parents of Doug and Priyanka? Who created Blue, White, Yellow, and Pink Diamond? Who are Andy's grandparents? And that's only the start. Technically, all four Diamonds are one entity, the Great Diamond Authority, but Rose/Pink is Steven's mother, who sadly died while giving birth to him, throwing the Crystal Gems (Steven's guardians) into a bit of turmoil. Due to this connection and the fact that White, Yellow, and Blue treated Rose/Pink as their child of sorts, they are basically Steven's grandparents, specifically his three grandmothers. Also, only a few of the couples on this chart are married, specifically the parents of Greg and Andy, while it is presumed that Doug and Priyanka, Connie's parents, are married. To be exact, Connie and Steven, former lovers Rose and Pearl, former lovers Rose and Greg are not married. Andy points this out rudely in the episode "Gem Harvest." There is another detail I need to talk about as well. The surname of Universe is one that Greg changed from Demayo. As such, Steven was born with the surname of Universe, and the middle name of Quartz. His full name, according to his fandom page, is Steven Quartz Cutie Pie DeMayo Diamond Universe.

The above chart misses a lot, however. Steven considers his guardians (Pearl, Garnet, and Amethyst) to be his family, as he does with Connie, Lion, and his other Gem friends (Bismuth, Lapis, and Peridot) to be his extended family. As Steven's chosen family, as some people call it, they are definitely a part of his life, but with the chart in its current organization, the typical hereditary format, I'm not sure where to add them without creating confusion for the viewer. Perhaps if the chart had a different format, they could be included in their entirety. It also misses something else, the four beings considered his creations: Watermelon Stevens, Pumpkin, Cactus Steven, and Topiary Stevens. Since they come about from his DNA/Gem abilities, they can be considered his children. It's almost akin to artificial insemination, where, according to WebMD, a "doctor inserts sperm directly into a woman's cervix, fallopian tubes, or uterus."

Among other issues that complicate this is the fact of fusion, symbolic of relationships or friendships between two or more people. This almost completely operates outside the above-mentioned family tree, with a few exceptions: Steven and Connie form a fusion, while Steven and Greg form a fusion. Some people have shown them in a "fusion tree," while others put together a "fusion graph." Unfortunately, both are sorely out-of-date, with the fusion graph done three years ago. So, I made a new chart, with the Crystal Gems in the center, and not including Fusion Gems not tied to that core group. [2] Since Steven is half gem and half-Gem, he is a fusion himself!

This chart says a lot more about Steven's family and the connections they have together than the earlier one shown in this post.

© 2020-2023 Burkely Hermann. All rights reserved.

Notes

[1] To create this tree, I used the Steven Universe, Greg Universe, Minor Characters, Andy Demayo, Rose Quartz, Pearl, Doug, Priyanka, Connie Maheswaran, White Diamond, Blue Diamond, and Yellow Diamond pages from the Steven Universe fandom site.

[2] This includes Bluebird Azurite, Rhodonite, Topaz, Lemon Jade, Topaz Chamber Guard, Crazy Lace Agate, Watermelon Tourmaline, Ruby, Hand Cluster, Giant Ruby, Fluorite, The Cluster, and Cluster Gems.

[picturejasper20]

I think the reason of why Connie recognized immediately that Steven was not okay in "Together Forever" it's because she herself went through something similar.

She must have suffered from mild PTSD (not as serious as Steven's). That might explain why Priyanka knew so much about PTSD (aside from being a doctor, of course). She must had help Connie with dealing with her problems.

[uncorrect-su-quotes]

Connie: Mom wouldn’t let me buy a crystal ball. In what situation would that not be useful?

Pearl: Bear attack. 

Lapis: throw it at the bear to create a distraction while you run

Steven: omg you’re right!!!!!

Amethyst: use it to see the future and play a sick game of basketball

Connie: You understand perfectly.

[novantinuum]

Pink Mode is a Stress Reaction

“When humans are in crisis, the brain releases the hormone cortisol. Your heart races, your muscles tense- I wonder if your body is reacting to a Gem equivalent of cortisol...”

For the record, I think Priyanka is right on the money with this hypothesis. From all we have seen in Steven Universe Future, every time Steven has been in this state, it’s because he’s experiencing something that either A) reminds him directly of past traumas, B) something that taps directly into his fear of abandonment, or C) a situation wherein he feels a lack of control.

The incident with Jasper? All of them. It’s both a physical reminder of the fights he’s had with her, he’s trapped underfoot, and it’s her words crushing him with the low blow of “you’re nothing without [your friends.]”

While fused with Amethyst as Smoky Quartz? At that moment, they were presented with a crisis where people’s lives were literally in danger. Reminders of past trauma. Lack of control.

Every time Steven turned pink in Volleyball? Reminders of past trauma with mentions of Pink Diamond, and him learning yet ANOTHER “sin of the past.” He also watches Pearl and Volleyball argue and tries to ask them to calm down, but they don’t listen to him at all- lack of control.

The fight with Bluebird? Steven nearly watched his own dad hurt by Gems he likely blamed himself for allowing to get too close. His dad’s life was risked by Gem stuff, again. Reminders of the zoo incident, anyone?

Lars and everyone else at the graduation? Absolutely fear of abandonment.

Prickly Pair, when he snaps back at the cactus? Lack of control. Arguing back and forth is stressing him the hell out.

In Dreams once again showed him reacting to reminders of past trauma, this time the Diamonds, and the injector, and mixed that all in with his fear of abandonment. Lack of control is also likely, as during one of the dreams he outright turned into a baby- perhaps a manifestation of helplessness- and Peridot implied that he was pink the whole time he was dreaming.

When he let Connie leave after the (gently) turned down proposal, it seems as if he couldn’t help but let that sink in as an overt rejection, and so- when he flops back and goes pink- fear of abandonment.

All throughout Growing Pains we see a vast and interconnected mixture of these causes. Steven’s constantly being reminded of the embarrassment and heartbreak of that proposal, the Gems are gone for the weekend, and he fears as if even his Dad doesn’t have the time to talk to him, which- when left to his own devices to stew in his own thoughts- causes him to downward spiral. 

He’s notably tense when Connie leaves the hospital room in this episode, if you notice... he panics when Dr. Maheswaran so much as raises her voice... he instinctively bubbles part of himself when she’s just trying to administer a reflex test. (A blatant example of hyperarousal, in fact- one of CPTSD’s many symptoms.) That’s only mentioning a few instances.

Considering all of this, I think it’s wholly reasonable at this point to postulate that pink mode flat out IS Steven’s unique hybrid way of reacting to new stressful situations. Early on, fan musing trended towards it being an anger mediated response, but I don’t believe it’s that at all anymore. I wholly believe that his pink mode is a fight-or-flight like stress reaction.

“You’ve been dealing with genuine threats from such a young age that your body is now responding to minor threats as if your life were in danger.”

That’s why Steven finds it so difficult to control when or how he slips into this state. It’s a reaction. It’s not something he’s consciously choosing. His gem is strongly influenced by his emotions, by how he feels, and so if he feels like his life has spiraled out of control? If he feels heart pounding terror as he’s reminded of something in the past? If he feels crushed by the weight of the fear that he’s just gonna be left behind by everyone he loves and holds dear again, left alone in his house, just like he always was as a kid for so long? Then he turns pink.

And he can suddenly run super, SUPER fast.

And he’s stronger.

And he’s subconsciously putting up walls to protect himself.

These are the same sort of instinctual gut reactions many of us have to stress when we’re caught in a bind, except in this case Steven is a hybrid with magic powers, so those reactions manifest in a far more extreme way. 

And for Steven to find a way to manage this stress reaction, and manage the lifelong impact of the childhood trauma he’s survived, really... the only long-term solution is him seeking therapy. On screen. Considering Crewniverse has already put in so much research on this topic, I’d expect nothing less from them.

[starchildsteven]

Chapters: 12/15 Fandom: Steven Universe (Cartoon) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Connie Maheswaran/Steven Universe, Crystal Gems & Connie Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Pearl, Bismuth & Connie Maheswaran, Other Relationship Tags to Be Added, Connie Maheswaran & Peridot, Lapis Lazuli & Connie Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Priyanka Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Doug Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Greg Universe, Jasper & Connie Maheswaran, Lion & Connie Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Shy Rose Quartz, Garnet & Connie Maheswaran Characters: Connie Maheswaran, Steven Universe, Pearl (Steven Universe), Bismuth (Steven Universe), Blue Diamond's Pearl (Steven Universe), Yellow Diamond's Pearl (Steven Universe), Pink Diamond’s Original Pearl | Volleyball, Peridot (Steven Universe), Priyanka Maheswaran, Doug Maheswaran, Greg Universe, Original Male Character(s), Connie's Therapist, Jasper (Steven Universe), Centipeetle | Nephrite, Larimar | Ice Monster, Nice Lapis (Steven Universe), Original Characters, Lion (Steven Universe), Shy Rose Quartz (Steven Universe), Garnet (Steven Universe) Additional Tags: Older Connie Maheswaran, Aged-Up Character(s), Community Service, Volunteer Work, Post-Canon, Canon Compliant, Pre-College Connie, Connie POV, Innuendo, sex mention, Established Relationship, Implied Bismuth/Pearl (Steven Universe), Minor Original Character(s), Other Additional Tags to Be Added, mild violence, Concussions, Sparring, Implied Blue Pearl/Yellow Pearl - Freeform, Implied Lapis Lazuli/Peridot (Steven Universe), Kinda, I left their relationship a little ambiguous, Moving, Loneliness, mention of drowning, Therapy, Panic Attacks, Triggers, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD, Parent-Child Relationship, Baseball, Self-Doubt, Low Self-Esteem, Underage Drinking, Bar, Vomiting, Explicit Language, Trans Character, Alcohol, Alternative Perspective, Depression, Introspection, Rose is Lion Summary:

It seems completely impossible and yet somehow it's true. Short on a newly required one hundred hours of community service it looks as if Connie isn't going to graduate high school!

Unable to find an opening anywhere else this late in the school year and desperate to get back on the fast track to college, when Steven suggests she spend her volunteer hours working at Little Homeschool Connie reluctantly agrees.

After all, she's only got a few months left until graduation and working for the Gems won't be too hard... right?

---

Affectionately known as Community Connie!

[lightanddarklove]

SU: Future - The Best Mother and Doctor I can be Ch 1

First thing to note, I don't think Dr. Maheswaran let Greg leave the hospital without giving Greg a stern talking to about not having insurance or healthcare for Steven, which led to talking about Greg's situation as a new parent, and his parents. So that comes up when they talk.

Secondly, to make things easier, Greg had previously used some of the money he got after purchasing the Dondai to get Steven's citizenship in order. With that kind of money, you can make citizen issues disappear, which allows for Steven to have a legal license as of Steven Universe The Movie. The reason Steven's medical history has no social security number is Steven had no reason to know it. Greg got all of the DMV paperwork taken care of for him, and since Steven has never had a normal job, he has no paperwork he has to fill it out which would require it. So its simply a lack of knowledge on Steven's part. This is just to make the idea of Greg getting Steven insured less complicated. Feel free to use this HC if you like but if you wanna send me a recommendation from your readers, I'd super appreciate it.

Thirdly, I am no medical professional so Steven’s diagnosis is not to be treated as 100% accurate, he is going to be diagnosed by experts and Priyanka is the first step to getting him what he needs. The diagnoses are based on other people’s meta and what was discussed in the show.

Thank you, and I hope you enjoy!

Content Warnings: Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Imposter Syndrome, Self-Esteem Issues, Car Accident, Childhood Neglect, Childhood Trauma, Sleep Issues, Canon-Typical Violence Discussions

Dr. Maheswaran would consider Greg Universe a friend. Before the whole truth of what happened to Steven came to light, she had considered him a good parent. At this point, she is fuming; Steven has a gaggle of family and not one of them saw fit to take care of him the way in he needed. She is stepping in to give this boy a fighting chance of some normalcy.

Priyanka centric. Angst with eventual comfort.

It had been 6 days since Dr. Maheswaran had seen Steven Universe in the hospital. It was surprising to not have heard anything from Greg or the Gems, especially since the doctor had given Greg an earful regarding Steven’s healthcare, but Connie texted her mother that day with cause for concern.

I’m going over to his house. I finally talked to him and I think there’s something wrong. I don’t think he’s being honest with me, her text read.

Not being honest with her? I don’t like the sound of that, the doctor thought. She was lucky she had a break in her shift when the text came in and she replied right away.

What do you mean? Dr. Maheswaran replied. Please keep me posted, and no going out into space overnight without coming home first.

Ok mom, Connie’s response read. I just mean he was being dodgy when I asked him some things. I’m worried and I’m going to get to the bottom of it.

Dr. Maheswaran stared at her daughter’s reply, frowning. That’s incredibly vague, she thought. Either he’s seeing other people after proposing to Connie, or my diagnosis needs a follow-up immediately. She put those thoughts aside before continuing her shift, but her concern lingered, listening out for any pages over the hospital’s loudspeaker that mentioned the name Universe.

Once the workday was over, Dr. Maheswaran checked her phone again. Connie’s reply came in about an hour before, reading: I’m staying over. He’s had a really rough day. Dr. Maheswaran was astonished at her daughter’s bold reply. All the gems and his dad are here. You don’t have to worry about anything happening.

What in the world is going on? The doctor thought. She’s not asking permission; she’s assuming that this is ok to disregard the rules because of extenuating circumstances, and she isn’t telling me why. How can she expect me to just say yes? Dr. Maheswaran furrowed her brow as she walked to her car and unlocked the door. Before immediately jumping to conclusions, she decided to check her other messages to ensure that the Gems or Greg didn’t send over any more pertinent details that would make this at all less disconcerting. Her texts read mostly normally: an invite to a dinner party next week, a reminder for a seminar that she had signed up for, political spam message, and a text from Doug, that started Honey, don’t get too worked up...

Oh yes Doug, perfect way to make me worry less, she thought sarcastically. She opened the text, frowning as she sat in the driver’s seat.

Honey, don’t get too worked up but Connie asked if she could stay over Steven’s house tonight, and I said ok. Now I know you’re worried since they’re teenagers, but she assured me that she wouldn’t be alone with him for any extended period of time since all the gems are there and apparently they’re nervous to let him out of their sight. Something gem related happened and although I didn’t get all the details it took a toll on him. The message continued in a second text. Greg said Steven was exhausted. I wouldn’t trust it if Greg hadn’t assured me there would be no funny business and Connie would be sleeping on the couch. She already has a plan for which of her classmates would bring her notes and assignments after school tomorrow and she’s stopping by the house to pick up her books as soon as Steven’s asleep. See you when you get home, Priya.

Priyanka looked over both texts a second time, making sure she wasn’t missing something. It seemed like the orderly structure as parents she and Doug had planned for was being shelved for some still unknown reason. Connie, don’t you see this is a big ask, she thought, and Doug, how can you just roll over on this? What is going on? She closed her messages and opened her contacts. She selected Connie from her favorites and brought the phone to her ear. Dr. Maheswaran anxiously tapped on the steering wheel as the phone rang, looking around the parking lot to ensure she was not being watched. She let out an agitated huff as the call went to voicemail. She glared at the phone as she brought the receiver from her ear and hung up.

We need to talk about this young lady. Dr. Maheswaran texted. Pick up your phone. Connie’s reply was nearly immediate, which only annoyed her mother further.

I’m still in the room with him and he’s trying to sleep.

I want more details, Connie. The doctor answered. What happened? I know your father said it was gem related, but I am not satisfied with that answer. Was it the swelling? Was there an attack from a rogue gem?

It’s complicated. Connie replied. The typing indicator went on for a moment and Dr. Maheswaran waited. It’s related to the swelling, he had another bout of that but it was more extreme than that. He’s been keeping things from the gems, they didn’t know he went to the hospital, and apparently a lot happened in the past few days. We’ve all been comparing notes, trying to figure this out, but I don’t know how much he wants me to say. He didn’t want to ask for help when he needed to and he was trying to avoid making anybody worry because he felt bad about it. Dr. Maheswaran stared at the screen for a moment, trying to read between the lines and finding herself frustrated at the lack of detail in what Connie said.

What do you mean, more extreme than the swelling? Dr. Maheswaran asked. She waited two minutes with no reply, fiddling with the radio and drumming on the wheel impatiently. Connie, answer me or I’m calling Greg. Frustratingly, that still didn’t get an answer from her daughter. After another two minutes ticked by, with no indication Connie was typing, Dr. Maheswaran closed her messages and opened her contacts. She called Greg, as she had promised, shutting the car off as it rang. After three rings Greg picked up.

“Dr. Maheswaran, hi.” He answered, his voice tight but trying to sound pleasant. “How are you?”

“Greg, I’m not calling to exchange pleasantries.” She replied bitterly. “Connie won’t answer her phone. I know she’s there. I know something gem related happened to Steven and she said it was ‘more extreme’ than the swelling.” Her voice began to raise in volume as she spoke. “She wouldn’t tell me anything else. I know that whatever happened is the reason she’s staying over. What I want to know is exactly why. Now are you going to give me details or am I going to have to come there myself to get answers?”

Greg was stunned for a moment but he sighed before responding. “It’s a lot of things, Priyanka. A lot happened since the hospital. Are you… are you sitting down? Cause this might take a while.”

“Yes.” She answered sternly. “Firstly, was Connie hurt?”

“No,” he replied quickly. “I can’t say this whole thing was easy on any of us, but she didn’t come to any harm.”

“Good. And Steven?” her voice softened slightly, in the back of her mind she suspected the answer.

“Physically, he’s ok now. But he got hurt before. And this is going to be a lot to deal with.” Greg answered. He paused before continuing. “When he was discussing his trauma with you, did he mention anything about his shapeshifting powers?”

“Yes,” she replied, “he said ‘I almost turned so old I died’ and ‘I lost control of my body and turned into a blob of cats’… does that have anything to do with swelling? Or what happened today?”

“Yes,” he replied shakily, “at least we think so.” A beat of silence passed between both parents. “He had another bout of swelling when I came over earlier today, but this one was more… uniform. He looked like he grew into his early twenties. He was broader than I’ve ever seen him, more muscular, and taller than Garnet. We were trying to get him to tell us what was going on with him, we kinda had to corner him to get him to talk-“

“Greg!” she bit back. “What were you thinking? Cornering a child with trauma often leads to panic, or lashing out.” Greg didn’t answer immediately. She paused, voice quieting. “What happened?”

“He was frustrated.” Greg answered. “He snapped at us; he started talking about all of the things that happened since the hospital and how he could make mistakes and fix them. How we didn’t have to know about any of it.” He paused again. “He called himself a fraud and a monster and that’s when his powers started to react. He grew spines out of his back and started looking and acting like a corrupted gem.” He swallowed before continuing. “He was huge, bigger than the hillside the temple is on. I’m sure anyone who was in town saw him. It took a while to reach him, but thanks to Connie we all got through to him. She helped us all pull our collective heads out of our a- rears,” he corrected before stopping.

“Greg,” Dr. Maheswaran started, “it sounds like he’s struggling with his trauma more than he’s let on before. You all need to step up and give him support and professional help. He can’t be left to deal with this on his own. I’m sure this incident is weighing on him from what little Connie told me.”

“Yeah, I think you’re right. I’m ready to take whatever steps we need to, to help him through this.”

“But Connie can’t be his primary support here, you are his caregivers and she needs to take care of herself, her studies, her future aspirations.”

“I don’t think it’s just that Steven wants her here. I think she’s not ready to leave yet either. If you came here to pick her up right now I’m pretty sure she’d fight you on it.”

“I’ve been texting her and she is pretty insistent that she’s staying tonight.” Dr. Maheswaran agreed. “My daughter has a mile-wide stubborn streak. Even if I forced her to come home, she’d probably sneak out. I’ve caught her doing it twice before this, and Doug has caught her trying to sneak back into her room three times.”

Greg chuckled, “Ah, well, I definitely did that when I was her age, and for less noble reasons. I wasn’t saving the world.”

“Four out of the five times it was just to see Steven.”

“Considering everything that’s come to light, he’s been going through a lot. I’m glad that they’re always there for each other.”

“Your choice of words is interesting, considering what Connie told me about what happened before the hospital.”

“Oh,” Greg answered nervously, voice cracking. “We probably need to address the whole proposing thing at some point, huh?”

“Connie said that she told him ‘Not now, Steven.’ That’s not a no. So yes, I will want that to be addressed in the future if our children are planning on getting married. However, that isn’t a pressing issue right now.”

“Ok,” Greg replied. “So what are our next steps, Doctor?”

“Firstly, have you gotten him into the insurance system like I suggested last week?”

“Yes, he’ll have coverage starting tomorrow.”

“Good. The next steps are him seeing a specialist for his mental health. I’ll be coming tomorrow to give him a follow-up assessment and to pick up Connie. I have a feeling if you tried to bring him to me he’d at the very least be hesitant.”

“Yeah. We’re going to do whatever he needs. He’s exhausted right now, but tomorrow sounds good. I hope this hasn’t put you out, Priyanka. This is a big help.” The doctor smiled.

“I’m here for my patients. Unless I’m unable, I’m going to do what I can to get them the help they need.”

“Thank you,” Greg replied, his voice warm with gratitude. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow, Greg.” Dr. Maheswaran hung up, and started her car to make her way back home.

The following afternoon Priyanka finished her shift and drove down to costal Beach City to visit the Universe family. The weather was pleasant, warm and partly cloudy as she followed the winding streets with her window half-down. She noticed the town itself didn’t seem to have any damage, whatever destruction Steven’s corruption caused had left Little Homeworld and Beach City proper unmarred. Once she pulled up to the house, however, she could see construction was in the process on Steven’s front door and siding.

She parked next to Greg’s van, shutting the car off. Once she got out of her car she saw Garnet and Greg sitting by the outdoor furniture on the porch. Garnet waved the doctor over as she came up the porch stairs. Seeing Garnet waving caught the attention of Amethyst and Pearl, who quickly made their way outside.

“Have a seat,” Greg said, his voice tired but friendly.

“Who’s with Steven right now?” Dr. Maheswaran asked.

“Connie, Bismuth and Lion.” Pearl answered, her air somewhat strained. “Lapis and Peridot are on a supply run. They’ll be back soon.”

Dr. Maheswaran sat and folded her hands in her lap. Garnet leaned on the porch railing, one hand hanging relaxed by her hip and the other supporting her on the banister. Amethyst hopped up on the railing to sit next to the fusion. Greg sat on the lawn chair opposite the doctor. Pearl was the only one of the five remaining standing, standing a few feet from the table with her fingers interlaced in front of her.

“How has Steven been today?” Dr. Maheswaran asked.

“Low energy,” Garnet answered quietly. “He woke up after eleven, which is very unusual for him.”

“How is his appetite?” The doctor continued.

“He’s had two meals today,” Pearl replied, “Brunch was Eggs, fake bacon, and a quarter of a cantaloupe. Late lunch was veggie soup. He hasn’t wanted anything else. He came down for brunch, but he asked us to bring the soup upstairs.”

“He apologized for it too,” Amethyst interjected, her tone unusually glum. “Connie’s been trying to get him to see that he doesn’t have to apologize for needing help, but it’s slow going.”

“Did he finish both of his meals?” Dr. Maheswaran probed.

“Yeah,” Amethyst answered. “That’s a good thing, right?”

“It’s important that he keeps his strength up.” The doctor replied. “What happened yesterday may have taken a toll on his mind, and very likely his body. It’s possible that kind of extreme strain will affect not only his appetite, but his mood and sleep patterns as well. He should be under observation for at least a few days, and any significant changes should be brought to his doctors’ attention.”

“What other doctors is he going to need to see?” Pearl asked gently.

“That’s partially why I’m here to assess him.” Dr. Maheswaran answered. “Based on my previous appointment he likely should see a child trauma specialist, but he may need someone who deals in other specialties as well. There’s a considerable department in the hospital I work at that may be the right fit in this case, however, there are other facilities all over the state if ours isn’t what he needs.”

“Would the hospital only treat him as an inpatient?” Greg prodded nervously. “Or would he be able to get treatment on an outpatient basis?”

“I believe its inpatient only,” she replied, one of her hands going to rub at her chin, before resting back in her lap. “Are you concerned about him having an overnight stay or that he may be uncomfortable spending time away from his support system?”

“Well, the second one would be true for any inpatient support,” Greg answered solemnly, “but for your hospital specifically, I think he would be especially uncomfortable considering his swell-up was there. I don’t want to put him in a position to have the experience be more anxiety inducing.”

“Ah, I understand.” The doctor regarded him sympathetically. “I’ll find a facility that does both in and outpatient treatment. They only would admit him as inpatient if they truly think he needs it, and any paperwork I forward will have noted he should be considered for outpatient preferably.”

“We want what’s best for Steven; however this needs to be handled, we will offer our support.” Garnet affirmed, her tone notably somber. The gems nodded.

“Can you tell me more about yesterday’s incident? And are you using any specific terms to refer to it?” Dr. Maheswaran asked.

“Ronaldo’s been calling it ‘Pink-zilla’ on his blog, according to Connie.” Amethyst answered, folding one of her arms across her chest. “Though no one but us knows it was Steven, well us and the Diamonds and Spinel.” The purple gem jerked her thumb over her shoulder to where the Diamond’s ship rested a distance away on the beach.

“We told Ronaldo not to release any more information regarding yesterday’s attack,” Pearl added, “and that we will have a statement be released through the mayor’s office no later than tomorrow. If Steven’s feeling up to it tonight, we were going to discuss how he wants to handle telling the town what happened. This isn’t something that the public needs all the details on, and if he wants it to stay private we will enforce that.” She paused closing her eyes. “Regarding your first question, I think it would be easier to show you the moments before ‘Pink-zilla,’” her tone slightly disparaging on the mocking name of the incident. Pearl’s gem glowed and began to show a hologram of Steven, Greg and Connie.

‘We are worried!’ Connie’s holo-double said, voice wavering.

‘Steven, you know you can tell us anything.’ Holo-Greg pleaded.

Frowning, holo-double Steven’s enlarged form snarled,‘It's not that easy. You know what? I don't have to deal with this.’ Holo-Pearl, Holo-Amethyst and Holo-Garnet moved into view, preventing him from leaving.

Priyanka tried to keep her face neutral as the group surrounded Steven in the hologram played on but she felt her stomach ache with discomfort.

'Hold up, dude.' Holo-Amethyst said.

'Steven! You have to stop running.' Holo-Garnet implored.

'Please,' urges Holo-Greg.

Holo-Steven froze with a shudder and the irregular swelling returned on his face.

'Steven, we should get you back to the hospital.' Holo-Connie warned.

'HOSPITAL?!' Holo-Pearl and Holo-Amethyst shouted together.

Holo-Pearl continued, 'When were you in the hospital?!'

'You didn't tell them?' Connie's holo-double reprimanded.

Priyanka’s stomach gave another uncomfortable turn and she swallowed. This scene became increasingly more worrisome as it continued but she fought to keep it out of her expression.

Holo-Steven's form distorted more and he groaned. As the swelling balanced out with a few unsteady breaths he replied, voice strained, 'it wasn't that important, you guys.’ His voice began to sound more confident, face showing a pained smile, ‘You're making a big deal out of nothing. Have I done some things wrong? Sure! I trashed the house today. I broke an anvil. What teenager hasn't?  Dad and I had a little disagreement. That's practically a rite of passage!'

The holo-versions of the gem trio and Connie turned their attention to holo-Greg and he shruged with an unnerved grimace. Holo-Steven seems not to notice this as he continues, ' I mean, it would be weird if we didn't, right? And maybe, I've had a not-so-nice thought or two about, like, you know, slamming White Diamond's head through a pillar ,’ he makes a gesture of doing that with his own face, ‘but it's not like I actually went through with it! I only actually shattered Jasper!'

Holo-Connie, Holo-Greg, Holo-Pearl, and Holo-Garnet all gasped, whole Holo-Amethyst shrieked 'WHAT?!'

Nervously, Holo-Connie stuttered, 'you're- you're joking, right?

'Oh, don’t worry,’ Steven’s holo-double replied, ‘I fixed that too! I can fix anything! I can just keep messing up and fixing things forever, and you'll never have to know or think about any of it!’

‘Steven,’ Holo-Garnet called, voice desperate.

Holo-Steven’s expression turned to a hollow frown and let out a shuddering breath before continuing. ‘How messed up is that? That I've gotten away with this for so long. You have no idea how bad I am.’ Holo-Pearl raised a fist to her mouth. Holo-Connie and Holo-Greg’s expressions were stunned speechless. Holo-Amethyst and Holo-Garnet both grimace, guilt plastered on all of the gems’ features. Holo-Steven’s frown turned to a withering scowl. ‘You-you think I'm so great, and I'm so mature, and I always know what to do, but that's not true! I haven't learned a thing from my problems! They've all just made me worse! You think of me as some angel, but, I'm not that kid anymore!’

He paused, voice dropped to a despondent degree. ‘I’m a fraud.’

Priyanka felt her hands shudder in her lap as she fisted the cloth of her pants. She cannot tear her gaze away from the boy she has come to know have his insecurities laid bare for his family to see. It made her heart ache that he felt this way about himself.

Holo-Steven’s knees gave out, collapsing to hands and knees in the center of his family. He sobbed, inhaling deeply before repeating, ‘I’m a fraud!’ Palms push from the ground as he set his elbows beneath him and hands tangled into his curls.

Priyanka’s lip quivered and she can’t force herself to care that she isn’t able to be objective anymore. Why are they saying nothing? Why aren’t they doing anything? How could you all let this happen! He was hurting, and all of you stood back and watched!

‘I’m a monster!’ he shouted as his body trembles violently. Painful looking spines burst forward from the holo-double of the boy, shooting upward as the group stepped back. The spines stretched out forty-feet, laying behind him as his hands shifted to claws and the rest of his form began to distort. Muscles swelled, arms became elongated and his mouth distorted to accommodate sharp teeth and tusks with a horrified inhuman screech. His curls vanished, and in their place a row of five horns broke through skin, which began to look hard and scaly. His features resemble a bipedal lizard with massive arms that appeared gorilla-like as they supported most of his weight.

‘STEVEN!’ the group shouted as he continued to grow, neck elongating and he shot forward, loping over the group that blocked the front door and crashing through the front of the house, bellowing loudly.

Priyanka shut her eyes, and said, “that’s enough.” The holo-vision disappears and the group looked to her with concern. She opened her eyes and met Pearl’s gaze first, followed by Greg’s. “I know that this is an extreme situation, and you all probably are going to need some time to process this, but he’s the one that went through that. You have to step up and put him first.” She paused and let that command settle. “If any of you can’t do that, you have to let others step in. For his health and safety, you must prioritize his needs.” She paused again, looking around and getting a nod of confirmation from the Gems and Greg. “Children and teenagers who go through significant trauma without proper treatment often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as avoidant behavior, which seems to me what he’s been doing up until now, but also lashing out, self-harm, substance abuse, other addictive behaviors…” she trailed off as she sees Greg curl his fist and his face shift with discomfort.

It’s probable he’s had some experience with one or more of those, Priyanka thought and her expression softens. “I would like to discuss more some of the things he said and family history which would be helpful in finding the best treatment options, but I’m going to step away for a moment.” She stood, and walked toward the stairs and back to her car. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” She called as she steps onto the sand. She managed a deep breath as she sat down in her car and closed the door. She fought the urge to scream.

I can’t understand how these people could let it get so bad, she thought as she leaned her elbows forward on the top of her steering wheel, resting her head in her hands. And Connie is now in the middle of this. I have to figure out how to tackle this. They all love him, they want what’s best for him, but they are so utterly helpless at this point. He deserves better- stop it, you know that line of thinking isn’t constructive. He needs guidance, structure, and if they can’t give it to him I will have to have him admitted until they can get their act together. She let out a shuttering sigh.

His symptoms are presenting in worrying ways. Imposter Syndrome is very likely, clear self-loathing, intrusive thoughts of violence, what else has been keeping in? I have to make some calls when I’m done here, he should be seen by specialists tomorrow if possible. The University of Delmarva is two and a half hours away but may be the best fit. Perhaps someone at work has a connection with East Shore Trauma Center, that’s only a little over an hour away if I can get my foot in the door. I have to make sure he’s getting the care he needs. Someone has to stop this spiraling. She took a few more centering breaths to calm herself and opened her car door to return to the group.

She saw Lapis along with two water clones soaring in onto the porch, arms laden with construction material as they landed. Peridot was not far behind, floating in on metal supports bound with wire and touched down on the beach before jogging up the stairs. Once Lapis set down her load of siding, Peridot extended her hands. As Dr. Maheswaran approached, she could see the lithe blue gem shrug several reusable grocery bags from her shoulder and hand them off to her smaller companion as the pair talked with Steven’s family. After a moment, Peridot nodded at the doctor and carried the groceries inside. With a wave, Lapis walked around to the back of the house and out of sight.

Pearl was the first of the group to turn her attention back to Dr. Maheswaran. “You said you had more questions for us, right?”

“Yes,” the doctor answered, and all eyes turned back to her as she took her seat. “Firstly, what did he mean when he said, ‘I trashed the house today’?”

“His voice,” Pearl answered quietly. “When he has been getting too emotional and isn’t controlling his voice, it can cause damage. It cracked the glass door in his room. That was one of the first things we fixed while he had his meal downstairs. So he wouldn’t have to look at it.” She paused. “It happened a few times before, too. His mother also had the same power, she used it before she came to earth.”

Greg interjected sadly, “That’s why she spoke so softly all the time. She probably was afraid of raising her voice.” Priyanka nodded.

“So before the meltdown, his damage to the house was accidental?”

“Yeah,” Amethyst answered. “Wait, meltdown?”

“His argument with you before he changed.” Dr. Maheswaran replied. “If he isn’t comfortable calling this incident Pink-zilla, that’s the best human way to describe what happened. It may make him feel more comfortable talking about it as I can imagine having it relate to a human problem may make it more bearable to tackle. Now, what about him and Greg having a disagreement? How recent was it?” She focused her gaze on Steven’s father.

The man clenched his jaw before answering, voice worn and gravely. “Two days after the hospital, I took him to my childhood home in West Keystone. He saw pictures and mementos from me growing up. I went there to get an old music CD and to tell him about how I really found myself through music. But when we were talking about it, he was angry, angry that he never knew his grandparents or had normalcy.” The man rubbed his arm with discomfort. “I said that he had it better off not living life feeling imprisoned, having freedom but I realize now that was definitely the wrong thing to say.” Priyanka regarded him incredulously. “He said ‘you’re just like mom.’ We kept arguing and he went pink, and dislodged the steering wheel. The van went out of control, but luckily we didn’t hit anyone.” The doctor stared in stunned silence, eyes wide. “The worst of it was the car flipped onto its side. I pulled him out. We both made it out without being hurt. I got a tow truck to bring us back to Beach City, but he barely talked to me after that until yesterday. He was acting very distant. I really fouled that whole situation up. But I’m gonna do everything I can to make it better.”

Dr. Maheswaran leaned forward on her elbows to the picnic table. She steepled her fingers and touched her pointers to the bridge of her nose. “Greg,” she started, hesitating. “I know you don’t have a good relationship to your parents. But you made something he was struggling with, feeling out of place, too much about your own parental issues. That wasn’t fair to him. And you said you pulled him out of the car? Was he knocked unconscious by the crash?”

“He briefly wasn’t responding,” he replied regretfully, “the van flipped onto the driver’s side so I unbuckled him and hauled him out through the passenger’s side. Once we were both out on the ground, he came to. It really scared me.”

“If that happened two days after the hospital, what happened the day before that?”

“He wasn’t up for much.” Greg answered. “He slept in, but it wasn’t very restful sleep. We talked a little, watched some movies and I got us take-out.” Priyanka sat back up straight, face turning stern.

“So after the accident, why didn’t you schedule any follow-up?” she asked before turning her attention to the gems. “And why weren’t you all here for all of this?”

“I don’t have a very good excuse,” Greg answered, looking at his hands in his lap. “It was late when we got back from West Keystone, but I could have called you in the morning.”

“And he didn’t call you after that because after getting into an argument with us over the accident, Steven ran away from home,” Garnet answered solemnly. Dr. Maheswaran jumped to her feet.

“WHAT?!” she yelled, slamming her hands on the table. Greg flinched, while Pearl and Amethyst stared in shock. Garnet’s expression was unreadable. “I don’t understand how that wasn’t the first thing you could tell me about how this whole thing started! How many days was he missing? Where did he go? How did he get back?”

“He was gone for three days,” Pearl choked out, looking away.

“He went into the woods, he didn’t want to be found,” Amethyst murmured.

“He came back on his own,” Garnet answered. “He came back because he shattered Jasper and needed the diamond essence to fix it. We still don’t know how it happened. He won’t talk about it with us.”

“We weren’t there for him when he needed us, after the whole proposal and hospital thing, because we were on a Little Homeschool field trip with no cell service,” Amethyst said, keeping Dr. Maheswaran’s gaze.

“We had no idea,” Pearl continued, “the first thing Greg told us about was the car accident and we were most concerned about the pink power causing himself or others to get hurt.”

“I should have told them after he went missing,” Greg added, “but I was just focused on finding him, and I didn’t really think about the why.”

“We all screwed this up.” Amethyst concluded. “We’ve been trying to put together what’s been going on with him for the past few months so we can figure out how we went wrong. We want to be better for him. Connie helped us see that when she talked him down.”

“You don’t have any other option,” Dr. Maheswaran said resolutely. “If you want him to get better, you have to recognize your missteps and be better for him. I’ll ask about his family history later, I want to hear his side of things.” She stepped away from the table and marched through the Beach House’s broken doorway, scowling.

[connversetheuniverse]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Steven Universe (Cartoon) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Connie Maheswaran/Steven Universe, Connie Maheswaran & Steven Universe, Connverse Characters: Steven Universe, Connie Maheswaran, Greg Universe, Greg's Van (Steven Universe), Pearl (Steven Universe), Amethyst (Steven Universe), Garnet (Steven Universe), Doug Maheswaran, Priyanka Maheswaran Additional Tags: Fluff, Angst, Fluff and Angst, College, Kissing, First Kiss, French Kissing, Making Out, Abandonment, Mental Health Issues, Recovery, Loneliness, Love, Love Confessions, Soulmates, Teenagers, Teen Romance, Mentions of Sex, Studying, Friendship/Love, Breaking Up & Making Up, True Love, Teenage Drama

Summary: 

Steven had only just started getting used to being called Connie's 'boyfriend' when the college year slowly crept upon them.

Steven struggles to come to terms with Connie leaving for college.

Connie isn't quite sure how to handle his attachment...

***************************

I MADE THE SMOOCHING FIC I MENTIONED AND IT’S BOTH FULL OF FLUFF AND ANGST! I hope you all enjoy it!

[shadow-light19]

This chapter is for MandyKun, who wanted a chapter were Twoie had the best day ever (due to the last chapter). I figured a great way to have a fun chapter where everything goes right, would be the family dinner that Priyanka mentioned having in Templeschool! This chapter has a couple of references to Templeschool, but it's not necessary to remember to still enjoy this chapter.

I might also make a basic reference sheet for the house layers with the refurbishment. Nothing extreme, I'm not good at drawing. It'd be like a very basic layout of what the floors look like.

Summary: Steven was bursting with excitement! Today was the big day! They were finally going to have a family dinner with the Maheswarans! Now if they could just manage to leave on time...

[artemispanthar]

Tentative Title: Non-Invasive Exam Originally written: 09/14/15 Word Count: 1,055 Intended plot: Dr. Maheswaran gives Pearl a medical exam with the intent to build a knowledge base of Gem physiology.

Notes: This was written shortly after “Nightmare Hospital” aired. Funnily enough, this was going to be not unlike what Dr. Maheswaran was doing with Steven in “Growing Pains”, running a series of standard medical tests like in the episode’s montage. The idea was basically to comically play with how awkward medical exams can be using two of my favorite SU characters.

Knock.

Knock-knock-knock.

The first knock had been so soft and hesitant that she had just assumed she was mistaken in hearing it at all. After the three more confident knocks, Dr. Priyanka Maheswaran closed the medical text she had been taking notes in and got up to answer the front door. The person... or, well, being on the other side of the door was tall and lanky, almost ghostly white in complexion with pale peach hair, a distinct pointed nose and a large stone smack in the center of their forehead. She immediately recognized this as Pearl, one of Steven Universe's... parents? Guardians? Whatever. Pearl was fidgeting with her hands and seemed to take a moment before realizing Dr. Maheswaran was standing there.

"Oh! Uhm. Hello, Mrs... Connie's mother." Pearl started, speaking just a little too loudly before adjusting her volume.

"Dr. Maheswaran is fine. And you're Pearl, right?"

"Right, yes. That's me. Uhm. I'm here to retrieve Steven from his play date. Is he ready?"

"Yes, just a moment." Dr. Maheswaran leaned back from the doorway to shout toward the staircase. "Connie! Steven! Its time for Steven to go home!"

A short cry of protest was heard before Connie shouted back "OK, we'll be right down!"

"They'll be right down." Dr. Maheswaran repeated, turning back toward Pearl, who had returned to fidgeting with her hands. "I thought Mr. Universe was supposed to be picking up Steven?"

"Hm? Oh, yes, he was. But there was an emergency at his business establishment and he asked if I could pick up Steven for him. Garnet is off on a mission and he doesn't really trust Amethyst with the van after what happened last time, don't even get me started on that, haha. Ah... So, here I am!" Pearl laughed nervously, moving her hands so rapidly as she spoke they were almost a blur. Dr. Maheswaran was reminded of some of her more jittery patients and mused at how fascinating it was that this being could be so much like a human, albiet an odd human. It was sometimes easy to forget that Pearl and the other Gems really weren't human at all. Speaking of which...

"Actually, this works out well, I've been meaning to speak with you."

"Me?"

"Well, you or one of your..." Dr. Maheswaran paused as it occured to her that she was never really clear on what the relationship between the three Gems was, aside from them all being Steven's guardians. That was certainly not a conversation for now, though, so she moved on. "One of the other Gems. I don't know if Mr. Universe discussed it with you, but I've offered to give Steven a medical check up a few times a year, since he's informed me Steven has never actually been to a doctor. Ordinarily I'd recommend a pediatrician but given Steven's... unique physiology I thought you might be more comfortable with someone who already knows about it."

"Ah, yes, Greg did mention something about that. As long as Steven is comfortable with it, it does seem like it might be a good idea. To tell you the truth, I worry about Steven's human half. Humans are so fragile... no offensive. But sometimes you cough and its nothing, other times you cough and then die? It's all very confusing..."

"Well, I was actually wondering if you, or one of the other Gems, would come in for a check up some time as well."

"What? Us? Oh, no, we don't need that sort of thing." Pearl said, sounding almost offended at the suggestion.

“I know, Steven has told me your bodies are just something like projections, though I still think an exam could be beneficial. However, I was thinking that if I could examine the physiology of a Gem I would have a better understanding of how Steven's gem effects him. That way, should he ever get sick or seriously injured, I can treat him better.”

“Why? Do you think Steven is sick? Does he seem sick to you?” Pearl tensed, panicked. An overreaction but Priyanka admired how concerned she was at the mere suggestion something might possibly be wrong.

“No, no. Steven is perfectly healthy, I'm sure, I just like to plan ahead. It's what makes me good at my job.” At that, Pearl seemed to relax. A little. For the most part, she still seemed very distressed. Perhaps this was a bad idea. “I'm sorry, it was presumptuous of me to even ask...”

“Oh, no, its alright. If you think it would help Steven then... I just... I'm not sure how Garnet and Amethyst would feel about it.”

“You don't need to answer right away, just think about it. Here.” Dr. Maheswaran stepped away from the door to retrieve the pen she'd been taking notes with and pulled a business card from her pocket. “This has the address of the hospital I work. If you come on these days between these times, I can make time to see one of you.” She handed the card to Pearl, who took it and stared at it pensively.

“Alright, thank you.”

“The exam would be non-invasive, just a very standard overview. It can just be between us, I won't even enter it in my patient records. I take doctor-patient confidenciality very seriously, you don't have to worry about the results ending up in a trashy magazine or anything like that.”

“Oh. Well that's good.” Pearl said absently, seemingly deep in thought. After a moment, her gem glowed and she reached up and pushed the business card inside. It was a strange sight and the doctor wasn't sure how to react to that. Thankfully, she didn't have to as she heard footsteps thundering down the staircase and turned to see Steven, Connie, and Mr. Maheswaran making their way into the living room.

“Pearl!” Steven shouted, sprinting over to give her a hug. “I thought Dad was picking me up?”

“He was but he's busy at the car wash. We should hurry back, he could probably use your help.”

“Okay!” Steven turned to wave as the two of them started walking toward Greg's van. “Bye Connie! Bye Mr. and Dr. Maheswaran!”

–

A few weeks had passed since that conversation in the doorway and if she was being honest, Dr. Maheswaran had completely forgotten all about it.

[diagraphers-brother]

Something I’ve noticed about Steven Universe, which I don’t think I’ve seen anyone else mention, is the extent to which the Maheswaran family seem to trying to follow gender roles they aren’t suited for: 

Careers: In Bubble Buddies, Connie says that her family came to Beach City for the sake of her father’s job as a security guard - which makes sense at the time, but we later learn that her mother is a specialist doctor, a much more highly payed job which I would expect to earn enough to support the entire family and would not expect to be any more flexible in terms of location than Doug’s. We see in Doug Out that Doug is unsatisfied with his job in Beach City, making it unlikely that they moved there because it was a job he especially wanted to work in. It thus seems likely that the Maheswarans chose to move to a location more suited to Doug’s job out of a sense that the husband ought to be the breadwinner and his career should thus be their priority.

Childcare: We barely see or hear about Doug until quite late in the show - when interacting with Connie’s parents, Steven almost always seems to be interacting exclusively with Priyanka, and after the initial mention of having moved to Beach City for her father’s job Connie mentions her mother much more often, suggesting that she has a much larger role in her life. It would seem to follow that Priyanka is acting as the primary carer, despite the fact that, as a doctor, she presumably works long hours. Much of Connie’s arc involves Priyanka’s terrible parenting, and from what we see of Doug he seems to be good with children, so this arrangement isn’t working out for Connie - the most likely explanation seems to be that the Maheswarans decided that taking care of Connie was Priyanka’s job because she was the mother.

This also fits with other things we know about the Maheswarans. In Fusion Cuisine, we see that they consider it important to have a conventional family structure, which seems likely to extend to having the mother and father each in their conventional roles in the family, and we see from Priyanka’s behaviour towards Connie that she is inclined to try to squash people into what she thinks they ought to be rather than look at what they’re like and what would suit them. It also fits with the major theme of society forcing people into roles that don’t suit them, which this would not be the only time the show has connected to gender roles.

[c-atm]

Bittersweet meetings pt6

*November 7th..Night of Connie's birthday.*

Steven slightly turned the knob of the burgandy door at the back of the house; stepping into the kitchen of the Maheswaran household as he did many times. In his hand a small cobalt blue box with a gold ribbon, a gift for his closest friend on her birthday.

The kitchen itself was empty for the moment, but in the living room he saw some people not much. Most were already engaging in conversation near a wall or on the couch playing the gaming system. Though Steven could hear the music blaring from underneath them; the basement. He looked  to the southern wall, saw the table where the gifts were being held and decided against adding his. He look towards the stairs and smirked as a plan formed in his mind.

He took to the stairs greeting people as he did and climbed up to the second floor. He walked to the second door on the left and entered unnoticed. A third of the room glowed in a natural light from outside; including Connie's bed and desk. He's been in this room many times before, but this time he felt different. There was a swell in his chest.  

“it's been a few weeks since I've been in here. Still as orderly as ever.. and still smell of jasmine.” Steven let off a chuckle before taking notice of a slightly old picture of the two on her desk. the picture was taken during one of their group excursions, a karaoke bar. Steven and Connie was performing, mic in one hand and the other connecting them.  He couldn't help but think how beautiful she looked in that pic, despite it being mid ‘belt out’ of ‘Partners in Crime’

‘But she always do...ok enough fawning over her. I'm here for a reason.’ He scolding thought before turning to the bed he gently laid the present on the blue pillow on the bed with a card next to it. Happy with his work, the teen  left the room discreetly. as he was walking away from the room he felt two strong, feminine arms wrapping themselves around his shoulders and a very womanly form pressed behind him. He froze, feeling the person breath in his ear.

“Oh my. you've grown haven't you, Lil Stevie?”

His eyes widen at the sultry, accusatory voice before turning around and looking down at a 20 year old beauty, who was smirking at him. They had lighter mocha skin than Connie, slightly smaller nose as well. They shared the same hair color and length, though there was a streak of pink in it. They also shared the same black pools for eyes as Connie.  He hugged the ;person and gave them a twirl.

“Stevonnie! Oh my gosh, when did you get in? How’s college? ”

The surprised person laughed a bit at his antics before tapping his shoulders. “ A week ago and it’s good, it's good. Hey, can you put me down big guy, you'll mess up the outfit.”

“Oops, Sorry.” He placed them down and stepped back at his older friend and alumni. “You’re looking great. You must be beating people away with a stick on campus.”

“Well yeah, that because I don't have my little protector...Though you’re not so little anymore.”

He watched them straighten out their skirt of their burgundy hoodie dress before shooting him a look. Stevonnie walked around Steven looking him over as they did, causing Steven to feel self-conscious as they poked and gripped his arms approvingly.

“What?” Steven watched them as Stevonnie stopped and whistled, hand on their cheek.

“Where all this man come from, you didn’t have all this when I saw you last”

“That was nearly a year ago, I did, and you still saw me as you ‘kid-brother’.”

“Then maybe i’m blind. Sheesh, you all growing up and becoming attractive young adults.”

“Your only what, two to three years older than us.”

“Where's the twelve-year-old who gave me and Connie chocolate every time he visited?”

“Oh god, you still remember those days?”Steven scoffed with an embarrassing smirk at Stevonnie's jest.

“How I'm supposed to forget my first confession; you were such a dapper little tween with your tuxedo and pompadour."

“Stop. Please stop mentioning my old crush.” Steven flushed red as stevonnie giggle at his protest as they ruffled his head fondly.

“You've really had grown since I've been gone, kind of sad really.  If I knew my cute admirer would have such an upgrade, I would've accepted your proposal."

"Well too late, you sibling-zoned me. So you get to admire me from afar." Stevonnie rolled their eyes at his playful boast.

"Sure,sure probably for the best; last thing I want is to wake up to a rabid Connie...Speaking of, what are you doing up here?"

Steven looked at them sheepishly as he rubbed the back of his head. "Just came from the bathroom."

Stevonnie arched an eyebrow and gave an accusatory smile as they folded their arms under their breast. "There's one downstairs where the party at and I just came out of the one up here, try again sweetie."

"Uhhh..Psssh..got lost."

"Really in your ‘home away from home’ Steven...Now tell me, Why did I see you come out of my little sister's room?"

Their authoritative voice froze the boy into submission. it sounded just like their mother and sister, same effectiveness too.

"I was just dropping of my gift, didn't want it to get lost in the chaos that is the gift table. That’s all.”

Stevonnie gave him a quick side eye glance before adopting a mischievous grin. “Sooo….What you got herrr?”

Steven shook his head and pulled his index and thumb across his lips. “Lips are sealed, Vonnie.”

“Oooo, it must be something good if you can’t share it with me. Which makes me \want to know even more.”

“I bet, but I ain’t saying anything...It’s a personal gift from me to her. That’s all”

Stevonnie lifted their arms in surrender at the serious tone of Steven.” No problem, far be it for me to pry in your two relationship...can I ask one thing though.”

Steven nodded towards his friend, who looked at him with a bit of sympathy.

"Is everything ok with you and her?"

Steven gave a faux smirk before shrugging his shoulders. "Why wouldn't it be?"

"You’re dropping off your gift.”

Stevonnie watched as a Steven nostrils flared ever so slightly and his persona was a bit more somber.

“Nothing is wrong. Me and Connie are alright.”

Stevonnie squinted their eyes in a small glare, hands on their hips. “Uh-huh...So are you going to stay then?”

“For a bit.”

“Glad to hear it and since that is settled, how about we go downstairs to the party, huh?“

“Wait a minute, Vonnie” Steven started to protest as stevonnie latched their arm around his.

“Nope, you’re my date for the moment and as such I want a dance. Maybe it’ll help you with that disposition of yours, yeah?”

Steven knew he couldn’t argue with as they dragged him down the stairs and smiled a slightly mischievous smile at him. Steven bit back a groan as Stevonnie sighed with mock melancholy.

“You know how to make a person feel wanted, Steven. Here I am dressed in one of my best, hanging on your arms, begging for your company and you don’t even appreciate it.”

“Stevonnie, come on..Just not in the mood for a party..that’s all.”

Stevonnie groaned as she led him to the kitchen away from everyone and pointed to a chair near it’s island. Steven sat, looking a mixture of bored and annoyed as Stevonnie sat across from him. Stevonnie glared deeply into his eyes before speaking.

“Does this have to do with the guy hanging around Connie lately?”

Steven tensed for a quick moment, tightening his fist  before answering. “I...don’t know what you mean?

“The guy who introduced himself as Connie ‘boyfriend’.”

Steven eyes widened at that before standing up, lip in a tight frown.“Really, is that so?”

Stevonnie guided him back to his seat, holding his fist in a calming way. “Geez, relax lil’ Stevie, It’s ok.”

Steven breathed deeply but his demeanor didn’t change. “I’m fine..She can date whoever she wants. No skin off my back.”

Stevonnie giggled at his claim before answering. “Uh huh..Is that why you look like you’re ready to cause WW3 though 5.”

Steven blushed embarrassingly and bit the inside of his cheek. Stevonnie shook their head at the surprising stubbornness of the otherwise easy going lad. “It’s ok to be jealous, Steven.”

Steven scoffed with a mirthless laugh. “I’m not jealous...just feel some sort a way. mean..I wasn’t even aware that she did or would want decide to date anyone. Then she got with some no name while I was out sick and it was one of our close friends  that set up the meeting and i’m the last one to find out.

Stevonnie nodded in agreement but before she could open her mouth, the door leading to the back yard open revealing  Priyanka and Doug Maheswaran holding two string handled bags and a decorative cake respectively. The two on the island rushed to assist the couple, Steven helping Doug with the cake placement on the island, and Stevonnie taking the surprising heavy bags from their mother upstairs. Priyanka shaked and flexed her fingers and hands in relief before taking Stevonnies’ seat as Doug went and got his wife something hot to drink before giving the boy a small, motherly smile.

“Thank you for the assistance Steven.”

Steven waved the gratitude off .“Anytime Dr.Priya, you seem a bit tired though.”

”Priyanka nodded in agreement “Been up since early this morning getting all this together.”

Steven watched as she took the cup of dijong tea from her husband, giving him a tender kiss and a bright smile..It reminded him of Connie’s.

“how are you doing this evening Steven?”

Steven shook his head and blushed in embarrassment after being caught daydreaming. “I’m sorry, what did you say.”

Priyanka and Doug shared a quick glance before Priyanka spoke. “ How are you this evening, everything ok, Sweetie?”

Steven nodded his head and smiled at appreciatively at Priyanka. “Sorry yeah I’m ok..Just in my thoughts a bit.”

Doug smirked as he sat next to Priyanka and casually massaging her left hand.

“Well, we’re glad you found time to celebrate with us,Steven. For a minute, we thought you wasn’t going to show.”

Steven gave a slightly strained chuckle. “Yeah, I really can’t stay long though..Just long enough to drop off my present.”

“Oh and where exactly is the present,young man?”

Just a Steven was about to answer, a voice beat him to it.

“He sneaked into Connie’s room and left it on her pillow..he was very delicate as well.”

While Steven turned to see Stevonnie walk in, smirking at the now red faced teen; the Maheswaren shared a secret smirk between each other. Priyanka cleared her throat gaining the attention of the two..

“Steven that’s quite charming, though it begs the question...What did you get her?”

“Nothing, just a PMP she had her eye on for awhile and some other things.”

“Other things, hmm?”

“What other things, Son?”

Steven groaned at Doug and Stevonnie teasing; causing Priyanka to snicker before assisting the teen.

"Ok you two, leave the poor boy alone."

With a chuckle and scoff the daddy-child duo eased off Steven, who gave an appreciative nod towards the house matriarch.  

"Gifts aside, I hope your sporadic appearances will become more frequent like it before. It's been a little off without your visits."

"You know, my parents said the same thing about Connie..."

Doug nodded with a smirk. “It has been a while since you stopped by..thought you abandon us, son.”

Steven gave a mocked scoff. “Nothing of the sort, Mensiour Doug..Just been busy, school, clubs and stuff.”

"He doesn't like Connie's new guy very much."

Steven eyes widen at the older person exasperatedly as Stevonnie took a seat at the other end of the island. "Really Stevonnie."

"Am I wrong?"

"Can't dislike someone I have never met…Can I ask, what is your opinion of him,Good guy?"

Stevonnie sighed. " He's a nice kid, but the 'relationship' seems kind of jokey."

Priyanka looked at her eldest with a slight disdain "Rude".

Stevonnie shrugged "But true. What you think Dad?"

Doug hummed with his eyes close before  giving an answer. "Seems like a good guy, but I am in agreement about their relationship seeming kind of  rehearsed."

Priyanka shook her head at her child and husband before turning to Steven, who was looking expectantly. "He's a nice guy, Steven."

Steven sighed. "That's good and Connie is happy."

"She seems to be,There's no big change in her demeanor. "

"Seems to be?"  

The Maheswarans heard the irritation in his question.

"There seems to be a strictly platonic tone when she talked about jim. " Stevonnie chimed in causing Priyanka to begrudgingly nod in agreement.

"His name's Jeff, 'vonnie."

"For real?" Stevonnie flushed in embarrassment as both her parents and Steven nodded. "Don't that be all."

Steven shook his head at Stevonnie a small smile on his face when he felt Priyanka squeezed the teen shoulder gently before speaking. "Steven, she never told you about him?".

Steven shook his head again as Priyanka took a sip of her tea before continuing. "Don't let it get to you, Steven."

Steven shrugged "I'm not...Just felt like she ghosted me. Wouldn't she want her Biscuit  to meet her boyfriend?"

Priyanka couldn't help feeling bad for the boy she saw as a son, but also feel a little giddy at the apparent jealousy.  "Which is why you don't have to worry... Now, while I hate to come off as criticizing, if she has not introduced you to him, it may be a casual thing and not anything important. Which is believable, when you compare their interactions to yours, which are MUCH more intimate in nature."

Steven allowed a small smile on his face.It wasn't  the first time he heard someone state, one way or another, that Connie and him seemed like a romantic couple. It got to the point that they would jokingly flirt with each other; calling each other silly pet name like 'Hubby and Wifey' and over-exaggerate seeing each other.

Though there were times when the flirting was very sincere and full of affection. Times when they referred to each other as ‘Biscuit’ and ‘Berry’. Times when they unwittingly found each other hand during their outings. Their joy rides on 'lion', where despite having a passenger sidecar,she always opted to sit behind him; her reasons being she feels more secure holding him and it’s comfy. Times when they watched a movie together and would end up cozying up together, one head on the others chest while the other held them close enjoying the warmth. didn’t matter if they were with their group or not.

“Looking kind of relieved there ,Stevie.”

Stevonnie teasing voice caused the teen looked up at the family who each member held a knowing grin.

"I have nothing to be relieved about...That being said I'm going to wish the birthday girl a happy birthday before I head home. He gave them an appreciative smile before he got up and walked out of the kitchen and toward the basement stairs. The music was loud even before he opened the familiar green door and for a quick moment blared as he opened and closed it.  As he walked down the stairs the high paced rock music changed into a fusion of slow r&b and pop.

He opened the door darkened by the stairwell and entered the basement that resembled a small party hall; more than enough room for the 20+ people that currently resided in it. The basement was dimly lit with multicolored strobe lights, but not so much that it tempted unwanted attention. He could see everything clearly; from the mini kitchen on the far east complete with fridge,sink and refreshments. The DJ booth at the back with a good friend of theirs, Sour Cream, manning the one and twos.

He spotted some people from school as well as some from around the neighborhood. It was a sea of dancing and conversing `seventeen thru nineteen year olds...With a few twenty-one year olds they knew playing chaperone. All in all looked like it was a good time. He walked his way through the crowd saying his greeting to all who happened to spot him, giving the smallest of talks when he needed as he tried to find his berry, only to stop as his lungs got caught up in his throat as he saw her.

Forest green crop top sweater zipped down with a light green collarless shirt underneath, a pair of black Jean's that gently hugged her hips yet were baggy legged and a pair of small heeled copper boots. Her dark brown hair was in neat ponytail that stopped right at the center of her back. She had on the smallest amount of her signature lip gloss giving a slight but noticeable gleam to her lips and no other makeup

"Not that it's needed." Steven couldn't help his stare and the feelings within as he drank in the newly minted 17 year-old form. Her ever confident stance and gentle smiled as she conversed with the rest of their friends. The way her clothes showed off her figure respectfully and the gloss. Not the first time he saw her wear it and yet it made her more adorable. Yet he couldn't take a step towards her.

He was nervous. He was nervous to speak to Connie, something he hasn't been since the first time he met her. ‘The hell are you doing, Universe? It's Just Connie. Your bud, friend, confidant. Your Berry..The hell are you afraid of.' Steven breathed deeply trying to silence pounding heart. With clenched fists and determination he took a step towards her and their friends..

Only to see another slightly taller guy with a matching color scheme stand beside her. Very lightly tan skin, slim build, slightly messy brown hair, brown eyes. He had a small smile as he took her hand and introduced himself to the group .Steven watched as Connie was lead deeper into the crowd, seemingly not minding the hand on the small of her back.

Despite having a quite a few people between them, Steven felt he was right there with her. Her scent of jasmine and chai found his nose easily. Her unique giggle vibrated in his ear despite the music of ‘Tee lopes Yourniverse’ playing at a thundering level. His eves couldn’t leave his berry as she danced. The lightness of her steps, the small rotative movements of her arms, the sway of her hips and waist. It was all intoxicating, melodic and hypnotizing respectively.

He watched her date grabbed her hand and danced in away that was complementary to her own and despite being a visible distance away from each other, sans their hands, Steven couldn't  help the heat in his chest and the small growl in his throat. As he was about to step towards them, he felt someone whispered gently and coolly in his ear from behind.

"Aren't you gonna wish her happy birthday?"

Steven turned in surprise as he came face to face with shining deep blue eyes looking up at him; familiar ocean blue hair was in a stylized bang-bob combo, and a slightly freckled face that held a sly yet sad smile.He found himself blushing under the gaze of one Lapis Oceana lazuli.

[minijenn]

Since you mentioned it earlier... How do you think a White Diamond Connie AU might go? Was she adopted by the Maheswarans? Were Doug and Priyanka abducted by White and used as genetic material to make Connie's human part? Would it go somewhat like the White Diamond Steven AU? Would the Mystery Kids all react badly when they found out who she was/who her mom was, if she was the only half gem?

Honestly i have no idea lol

[iitsforyourowngood]

May I have thoughts about Doctor Maheswaran... and how she feels about how her dotter grew...

priyanka has IMMENSE pride in connie and who she’s turned out to be.

 at the end of the day, she want’s what is best for connie. which is where the issues lay. priyanka had a very different idea of what she thought was best for her. all of her actions stemmed out of love and wanting to protect her. they were filled with good intentions. where there was disconnect was her paying attention to connie and how she was changing initially. priyanka is a workaholic that spends so long taking care of everybody else she is constantly forgetting to take care of herself. so there was a bit of connie growing up that she just didn’t register and focus on because she has so many other things she worries about. 

once they’ve all gone and talked over everything and both made changes in how to approach situations, it’s really good. she loves to brag about her daughter to people. i mean, who else can say their daughter knows how to sword fight? that’s cool as hell. not to mention connie keeps up with homework, and is still deciding to play the violin. connie doesn’t get out to do tennis as much, but priyanka doesn’t care as much about that. she’s still getting exercise from training which is what really matters. 

if anything priyanka can get frustrated easily with connie’s personality. the confidence gain she got was good, and she likes seeing connie coming into her own. but oof connie got a lot bolder at standing up for herself, and combating things priyanka might say. which is a GOOD thing, but priyanka doesn’t always appreciate it so much. especially when connie can get to be so stubborn… except the thing is… is that priyanka is just exactly the same way. priyanka will be like: “i just don’t know where she gets all this from” and doug is just: “…. you’re kidding right?” 

she’s really touched by how connie wants to do the right thing. it scares priyanka that she will put herself in harm’s way to protect innocent people, but it is somewhat admirable. she thinks that is much better to help those around you and the world than go and hide. 

anyway priyanka loves her daughter and who she’s turned out to be and is ready to watch her grow and succeed even more.

[starchildsteven]

Chapters: 8/15 Fandom: Steven Universe (Cartoon) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Connie Maheswaran/Steven Universe, Crystal Gems & Connie Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Pearl, Bismuth & Connie Maheswaran, Other Relationship Tags to Be Added, Connie Maheswaran & Peridot, Lapis Lazuli & Connie Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Priyanka Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Doug Maheswaran, Connie Maheswaran & Greg Universe, Jasper & Connie Maheswaran Characters: Connie Maheswaran, Steven Universe, Pearl (Steven Universe), Bismuth (Steven Universe), Blue Diamond's Pearl (Steven Universe), Yellow Diamond's Pearl (Steven Universe), Pink Diamond’s Original Pearl | Volleyball, Peridot (Steven Universe), Priyanka Maheswaran, Doug Maheswaran, Greg Universe, Original Male Character(s), Connie's Therapist, Jasper (Steven Universe), Centipeetle | Nephrite, Larimar | Ice Monster, Nice Lapis (Steven Universe), Original Characters Additional Tags: Older Connie Maheswaran, Aged-Up Character(s), Community Service, Volunteer Work, Post-Canon, Canon Compliant, Pre-College Connie, Connie POV, Innuendo, sex mention, Established Relationship, Implied Bismuth/Pearl (Steven Universe), Minor Original Character(s), Other Additional Tags to Be Added, mild violence, Concussions, Sparring, Implied Blue Pearl/Yellow Pearl - Freeform, Implied Lapis Lazuli/Peridot (Steven Universe), Kinda, I left their relationship a little ambiguous, Moving, Loneliness, mention of drowning, Therapy, Panic Attacks, Triggers, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD, Parent-Child Relationship, Baseball, Self-Doubt, Low Self-Esteem, Underage Drinking, Bar, Vomiting, Explicit Language, Trans Character, Alcohol Summary:

It seems completely impossible and yet somehow it's true. Short on a newly required one hundred hours of community service it looks as if Connie isn't going to graduate high school!

Unable to find an opening anywhere else this late in the school year and desperate to get back on the fast track to college, when Steven suggests she spend her volunteer hours working at Little Homeschool Connie reluctantly agrees.

After all, she's only got a few months left until graduation and working for the Gems won't be too hard... right?

---

Connie is on spring break and goes to see her boyfriend for the week! However her vacation into Steven's new life doesn't turn out quite the way she expects it.

A.k.a: Steven gets to be in in this fic for a chapter.

[geek-gem]

Well I just watched, "Last One Out Of Beach City" after a long time.

To be honest despite I was checking my phone a bit for the first few minutes or so. This is honestly one of my favorite episodes. Mainly because just the concept of it. Episodes where it's not like this huge epic thing or the story. Which is still important and great, but it's nice to have episodes like this.

Also the fact I have used many shots from this one episode mainly of Pearl for certain edits.

I also wanna admit and meh people say this already. But Pearl and Mystery Girl.

Pearl is really hot in that, "Bad Pearl" get up and I love that her new design is like a call back to it. I just love the jacket and pants.

Also, "Onion Gang" just came on but back to the point

The next thing is Mystery Girl. Oh please Crewniverse, please Rebecca Sugar bring her back to give her a voice and name. I am one of those people wondering if she's the Sabina Kevin mentioned.

Yet seriously please bring her back. Mystery Girl my personal opinion is like the hottest human or female human in this show. Along with Priyanka Maheswaran I'm being honest. I want to see this wonderful looking lady again. I'm not the only one from what I know I think.