#Publisher: Deep Hearts YA

[halcyone-of-the-sea]

Hello! I've read your soap and price fics and you are amazing!!!

I had an idea for a fic for Ghost. The reader would be Soaps slightly older sister who isnt like Johnny at all. Im thinking she either picks up soap from base after an op or from the bar. I'll leave alot of this up to you but i just wanna see Soaps Sister meeting Ghost!!

Brother's Coworker

PAIRING: Simon 'Ghost' Riley x Soap's Sister!Reader

SYNOPSIS: In the dim illumination of the streetlights, Ghost lays eyes on a woman leaning against the body of a vintage Hillman Imp.

WORDCOUNT: 4.2k

WARNINGS: Little bit of angst, but mostly fluff and pre-relationship pining, loads of sibling banter, conflicting emotions, etc.

A/N: Finally able to use my sibling experiences for a fic lmfao, enjoy!

*I do not give others permission to translate and/or re-publish my works on this or any other platform*

The woman was leaning against the body of a vintage Hillman Imp, the custom color a deep forest green along the sides and a cream white coating the upper third. Ghost stared at her as the rest of the men filed out of the bar one after the other—Johnny and Gaz being especially loud. He blinks slowly, hands inside his blackened pockets.

Across the way, your ears perk slowly at the sound of rapturous shouts, but you only continue to look down the sidewalk at the long illuminations of street lamps and the glints of broken bottles on the ground. Over your chest, your hands shift in their hold on your biceps, your thin jacket crinkling. Light dances in your irises.

“Oi, is that who I think it is?!” Familiar Scottish drawl brings a smirk to your face, and you turn slowly to huff, snapping out of your silent thoughts. 

“Who else would it be, ya bloody git,” your voice carries, but it lacks the sheer volume of your brother’s; the great boom that reminds you of the bombs he’d used to make out of your mother’s hair spray bottles. 

Never a dull day in your childhood home, really.

“‘Bout gave me a heart attack, not answerin’ my calls like that!” Johnny laughs loudly, obviously drunk, and stumbles over merrily. You’re taken into a chest-breaking hug in mere moments, leaving you squirming with a deep grunt. “Should have your head, MacTavish.” You manage to squeak out, “Put me the fuck down, you horror. And what in the hell have you done to your hair?!”

“Oh, my dear sister.” Your brother lets you go as the three other men slink over, amused with the scene but some momentarily confused by the sudden introduction. Gaz laughs, and the Captain huffs a chuckle before fixing the position of his beanie on his head. 

Ghost, as always, chooses to watch like a looming shadow above the rest. 

Johnny puts a hand to his chest, the other remaining on your shoulder, “You wound me. Such cruelty stuck in your black soul; I say now, mother was always right—”

You smack the side of his head and Johnny grunts. 

“Ow!” He yells, glaring at you. “What the fuck?!” 

“Open your mouth again and I’ll wring you out, you arse. You know I will.” Grumbling, the Scot rubs the side of his head as you raise a brow at him. The stare-off lasts for a decent bit, and before the rest of the group knows what’s going on, the two of you are embracing each other once more; laughing loudly. 

Ghost’s eyebrows pull in slowly.

“Ah, it’s good to be back!” Johnny chuckles, holding you close as you pat his back.

“Of course, I’d find my kid brother at a damn pub on his first day home.” Taking a step away from the hulk of a boy, you brush down your shirt and jacket with a scoff. Looking up, you come to face the remaining men with an exasperated look. “He’s full of shite half the time, y’know, now. Can’t imagine what he puts you all through.”

“Bloody hell, Soap, you were holding out on us,” Gaz chuckles loudly, sticking out a hand for you to shake while he glances at the mohawked Scot who looks giddy despite being insulted by who’s very obviously his older sister. “Never knew you had siblings, Mate.” You take the man’s hand as he smiles brightly at you. 

“Kyle.” He says, and you beam back, “But Gaz’ll do just fine.”

“A pleasure,” your voice carries to John who you raise a brow at teasingly. “Well, look who the Reaper’s yet to drag down…Good to see you again, Captain.”

Price shakes his head, a smirk peeling his lips as Gaz steps back. 

“Still on that land of yours, then, Love?” The brunette asks gruffly, leaning back on his heels for a moment while you sag your side into Johnny’s arm. Your brother scoffs and loops his limb over the bridge of your shoulders as you nod. 

“You know it. Proper quiet when the neighbors aren’t up to a ruckus racin’ down the streets. Christ, those kids are devils—worse than Johnny and I when we were young.”

“Now that’s hard to believe, eh?” The man beside you laughs through his slurred words and you roll your eyes. 

Chuckling in return, you blink, spying on the intent black figure behind everyone else. Piercing brown eyes dig past flesh like a scalpel while you tilt your head to the side, interest alighting behind your skull. He doesn’t move or even greet you, just looks over you and then turns his attention to the street like a roaming bear would; hell, he certainly could be a bear with how big he was. Bigger than Johnny, even. 

This stranger wears a large brown leather jacket, the hood of his underclothes pulled up to cover most of the pale skin that would otherwise be visible. The long swish of light lashes captures you as you study the way he blinks slowly across the road. On his chin and on the top of his forehead, the fabric of a skeletal-painted balaclava shrouds him. Cargo pants and large black combat boots sit on his feet. 

He stands like a statue. 

“Who’s this then?” You call easily, and those eyes travel back to you even as the head doesn’t. It’s strange the way you seem to brush aside the blatant intimidation he exudes simply by standing.

“Ah,” John grunts, chuckling, before stepping to the side. “Simon, introduce yourself.” 

A low voice lowly wafts after a moment to silence, Manchester accent spearing you in the ears with its rough make-up, “Ghost.” 

You blink over at the Captain, but he just shakes his head and you move on. Johnny chuckles and whispers to you, “Don’t mind ‘em, Lt’s a bit rough around the edges.”

Plastering on a polite smile, your chin moves in a nod, “Pleasure to meet you, Ghost. Good to know the other two who look after Johnny out there.” The man beside you feels his face burn, free hand going to itch at his neck.

Ghost grunts and shrugs off the veiled praise, large muscles stiff.

“You’re actin’ like I’m not the one savin’ their skins half the time,” Gaz interjects on the Scot’s point.

“Is that what you call it?” You share an amused glance at John. 

Though, your eyes always sway back to Ghost, or Simon, depending on who you ask. He listens to the chatter, obviously, but he seems much more content to only stay with his hands inside of his pockets and study the street for...what exactly? The beast wasn’t shy, no, just…silent. If you didn’t know better you’d call him aggressively casual with the way his shoulders sit.

Stance relaxed but the underlying threat was palpable on the wind. Like a wolf rubbing his cheeks on the ancient trees of his territory. ‘Don’t do anything stupid,’ - it seems his very DNA states that.

Brown eyes suddenly lock with your own as if snapping into place and before you can release a squeak of alarm, you swiftly dart your gaze away back to the arguing Sergeants; face burning.

Christ, how long had you been staring at him?

“Alright, you two, ease off it!” Trying to distract yourself, you wave a hand. “You’re both too drunk to be gettin’ into street fights at this hour. Johnny, into the car ya fool.” 

Your brother slashes you with a grin.

“Fuckin’ finally, a decent bed!” It was tradition to give Johnny the spare room when he was back home—proper meals. 

“You’re callin’ mother, y’know.” You unlock your car and motion to the passenger seat with a frown. “I dinnae care if you’re trapped for hours—give the woman a rest of all her worrying.” 

“You heard the woman, Sergeant,” John forces the gravel out of his throat, rubbing at his beard. Something hits your chest as your brother opens his door as you stand in the cold. You glance at each man in turn; eyebrows pulling in with thought.

“Ah, what the hell,” your voice huffs out. Ghost watches you closely, blinking as he lifts a hand to itch at his neck from under his hood. The leather jacket crumples with tiny shifts of worn-out material. 

“Don’t suppose you boys need any good beds to rest your heads on for the night?” Wiggling your keys, you pat the top of your Hillman as you slide to the driver's side. Johnny slinks inside his own and chuckles as he closes the barrier with a careful thunk. 

“Hospitality finally leakin’ in?”

“Next time I hit ya,” you send him a bland look, “I’ll aim for the neck.” Fake flinching towards him, the man squeaks and snaps quickly back into the car door as you snicker lively. 

“Beast!” Johnny exclaims. You roll your eyes and shimmy down the window behind him, calling out as the rest share glances.

“Get in if you’re comin’ over! If not all the food I made yesterday’ll go to waste!” That seemed to get Gaz into the back, with only Price and Simon left behind. 

Brown meets blue and John’s beard pulls back with a smirk. He clears his throat, “Well, I’m not one to spit in her face.” The Captain walks over and grunts as he bends down. 

Ghost sighs under his breath and follows, impartial as to where this night is going. He wouldn’t sleep tonight, no doubt. The hard and unforgiving beds on base were the only things he could rest on now save the ground. And food? He could go without food for days.

Though, being Johnny’s sister bought you some favor, trust wasn’t something that Simon gave around freely. But the car you drove was nice, and the company of his Task Force was easy to basque in until they shipped out again. 

Simon sits down on the refurbished seat and softly closes the door behind him. Dead-eyed, he stares at Johnny’s headrest as you glance at him from the rearview mirror—seeing his shoulder dig into the glass of the window. 

You shove down a joke and hum. “Good, then, it’ll free my fridge at the very least.” 

“Thank you, Ma’am,” Gaz offers as you start up the engine, “it’s awfully nice of you to do this for us.”

“Ah,” Simon hears you dismiss as he turns to stare out of the window; so often feeling his gaze drawn back to you as a leaf attached to a tree might act. “Don’t worry your head about it. I like the company.” 

“Aye, just how she is,” Johnny says earnestly. “Was always the one to let me over with my pals when the football games were over—’cept we were usually covered in mud.”

“I’m still finding grass in my rugs, Johnny Boy,” you mumble, focusing on the road as a slight squeaking emanates from the front of the car. Simon picks up on it easily, not preoccupied with speaking. He glances at you but mentions nothing beyond a shuffling of his thighs. 

Outside the land slides past in shades of verdant green and gray as the town falls away. 

He was confused, rightly. You’d seen his standoffish nature but had chosen to extend hospitality as the old Greeks did just off a growl of his name. But maybe it was just because he was your brother’s coworker. 

Simon grunts to himself and rubs at his wrist. Throughout the ride, the two of you would glance at each other and try to forget that you had; when the long driveway of a large secluded home expands out above the car, Gaz whistles lowly.

“Bloody hell, Ma’am,” he states and John chuckles. You easily smile and roll your eyes. 

“Trust me, it was more work than it was worth.” Ghost’s attention is slightly peaked.

“You worked on it?” His tone implies he doesn’t care, but his eyes gore into the mirror to lock with your own. Blinking in surprise, even the others seem to be taken aback by the man's lack of venom in his speech. 

Ghost wasn’t afraid to speak his mind when he needed to, but he didn’t do mindless chatter. Your eyes cycle between the driveway and the masked Brit before you clear your throat. Johnny glances at you with a raised brow, slight confusion in his brows. 

“Mostly—left the nasty bits to people more knowledgeable than I am, but I did most of the grunt work, eh?” Simon hums as the car pulls to a stop inside the garage, eyes not leaving the back of your head. 

Your neck bristles at the sensation of unrelenting contact, but the burning that joins it is telltale. Licking your lips you twist the keys out and quickly shuffle out of the door to dispel the electricity in the air. 

“Alright,” you say, “out. All of ya…Johnny, you’ll be helping me with the bedding.” 

A groan is cut by an unimpressed glare. “...Yes, Ma’am.”

You huff and smirk. 

“Trainin’ him well I see,” teasing John as they all file out of the car, he shakes his head at the two of you as Simon scoffs. Gaz openly laughs as Soap’s offended look grows. 

You all enter the house as you direct them to the kitchen after they’ve taken off their boots and hung their jackets. “It’s all in the fridge, heat what you want, and don’t bother fightin’ Johnny if he takes too much. Tell me and I’ll make him sleep in the back near the chickens.” Your voice tells them as you pat your brother on the shoulder. 

Johnny grumbles and kisses the top of your head. “You’re horrible to me,” He jokes but his eyes shimmer with affection. As you leave to get a head start on the rooms, you smile and call out to him.

“That’s my job!” 

Backing out into the hallway, you leave with a deep well of happiness in you. You don’t even realize that the party had only contained three men instead of four until you’re in the linen closet and a shadow suddenly blacks out the light from the bulbs. Jumping slightly, your head swivels as you carry very many sheets and pillowcases in your grip. 

“Oh,” you mumble through cotton, smile growing as the flip in your stomach does, “Ghost! Done eating already?” 

The man is still and silent as he glances from your face to the sheets. Without a word, he halves the load and steals them as your jaw loosens in shock.

“Johnny’s outside callin’ your mum.” Ghost turns and walks out, but waits for you in the hallway to be directed. 

You push down the tightness to your throat and see the man’s feet shift on the hardwood. He looks funny, such a big man carrying bed sheets. His actions make your heart speed up. Brown eyes blink at you like a cat. 

“Well,” you chuckle, “always was one to get out of housework.” Trying a smidge more, you shift past him and turn off the light. “His barracks room dirty?”

“Pigsty.” Simon blandly states, walking slightly behind you. Your pace slows so you can stay beside him. He side-eyes you but says nothing. 

Leaning in slightly, you quip as Ghost tenses, “Can’t say I’m surprised. The man’s used to me bailin’ him out.” Chuckling, you go into the first bedroom and put everything on the bed. 

Simon grabs the pillows and starts to dress them quickly and efficiently. 

“But thank you,” you say, and the Brit pauses to look up at you, something swirling in his murky gaze. Earnestly, you tilt your head with a smile. “Ya can go back and eat more if you want. No need to help—you’re a guest.”

“Not hungry,” is all he answers, and gets back to work. You watch for a moment, perplexed, but not at all about to deny the assistance. A genuine grin twitches your lips. 

“Johnny writes about you, y’know,” your fingers pull at the fabric and you chuckle as Ghost’s incredulous look turns to you—face hidden but confusion is obviously seen. “Says he looks up to you quite a bit; something about Mexico.” 

Your face dips slightly, and Simon’s body stills. Along the pillow, his grip carefully tightens. He can’t find it in himself to walk out of the door and stand outside even if he knows he should. 

“I really can’t imagine what it’s like,” you mutter, shaking your head. Gazing at him, you study his wound muscles and secret flesh like a tapestry—wondering if he hides himself because of the safe anonymity or a sense of numb fear. 

He wouldn’t admit to either, you know. But something about Simon had captured your attention and now you had a face, or just a body really, to put to the written name like a puzzle piece. 

You take a long breath, “But you’ll never know how grateful I am.” 

By the way his chest stops moving and his body goes frozen, you think you hit something inside of him; the minute widening of his eyelids like pedals opening in the light. Simon peers at your expression, his eyes sliding from one point to another. 

Like he can’t really pinpoint what you want. 

Ironic really, because you didn’t want anything. 

“Don’t thank me,” is what he settles on, moving back to the pillow as if your words hadn’t stabbed him. “Johnny knows what he’s doing.”

Your small snort enters the air above the sliding sheets. “There’s no argument there.” A sigh echoes as you finish up, putting your hands on your hips. Across the bed, you two stare as Simon tosses down the pillows. The remainder of the sheets sit on the end of the bed. 

The man’s eyes narrow on you, and he clenches his jaw under his balaclava. 

“The only thing that I do know is that every time my brother comes back he smiles less than he did before.” You side-eye him seriously as you move. “I can only guess what all of it does to the others who don’t have anyone else to go back to.”

Simon’s breath halts in his chest before he finds the means to take down a slow inhale. Brown eyes glare intently, jaw tight, but it’s not the fire that gets to you…it’s the lack thereof.

Ghost doesn’t like this feeling, and your candidness was something he hadn’t expected.

“So,” you drawl, “I’m thanking you for giving him someone to joke around with—a distraction,” a teasing smirk, “no matter how blunt.” 

“I just told you—”

“Well, I don’t bloody care, do I?” Huffing, you smirk and tip your head back before snatching the rest of the sheets. “C’mon, we have three more rooms.” 

Simon watches you leave and tries to fight the rampage in his chest; the merciless slam of his heart to his ribcage. What had you done to him? A hand comes up and rubs into the bridge of his nose, fingers heavy and tight. 

What in the hell was going on? 

Growling under his breath, Ghost stalks out of the room only to see your back disappear into the next. In the hallway, he takes a long inhale and closes his eyes to steady himself. 

“Fuckin’ hell,” the man grunts. The tension in his shoulders was plainly visible. 

For the remainder of the room, Ghost would send you tight glances as he worked but didn’t utter another peep. You had taken his voice, or what little left of it there was. 

In many ways, you were like your loudmouth brother—your snark and your stubbornness. But you were different too. 

He feels his eyes trail down your form slowly from time to time. Capable; hardy. Simon blinked away and grunted under his breath aggressively. 

When everyone was done with their food and Johnny had come back in from his call to his mother, with a soft smile on his face, you knew it was time for bed. 

“Alright,” you strut into the kitchen with Ghost on your heels—his large arms crossed over his chest as he caught Soap's intense stare. The Lieutenant's brow raises, but Johnny only frowns in conspiracy before he looks over to you and itches at his chin. “Beds are made. You can all thank Simon for that, seein’ as Johnny used our mother as an excuse yet again.”

“And she was very pleased to hear from me!” Your brother points to you.

“She’s our mother,” you deadpan, “It’s her job to be, ya arse-face.” 

The boys all follow you down the halls as you point to the rooms. Gaz shakes your hand again and gives you a tiny hug in thanks while John pats your shoulder and calls a soft, “Goodnight, Sweetheart.” 

Both close their doors and you hear the large sighs through the wood. You have to wonder when they’d had a good bed to sleep on and a good meal. Last was your brother and Ghost, the latter of which kisses your head and hugs you tightly. 

“It’s good to see you, truly. Been missing you, little Hen. Thanks for lettin’ me over all the time when I’m home.” You melt and grip his shirt. 

“You’ll always have a place here, you know that. One call away…Now go to sleep. You smell like a pub.” He lightly chuckles against you. With a bond this tight, the two of you never had to say that you loved each other—it was just known.

Johnny squeezes you one last time before pulling away and slinking into his room, giving an unrecognizable glance to Ghost on his way in before the barrier slips into place with a quiet thunk of wood. The two of you look at and stare for a moment. 

“Lucky you,” your voice is quiet but easy to hear, “you get the room with a view of the field.” 

“Color me surprised,” he mutters, not looking enthusiastic. Against the tone, the look makes your mouth jerk in a laugh, and you cover your lips after a moment. 

Simon’s eyes unconsciously soften. 

You wave a hand, chest light, “Let’s go then, you brute.”

“Brute?” Simon grumbles, “Gettin’ familiar?” 

“Please,” you shake your head and walk to the last door in this section of the house. “You all became familiar the second we met.” 

The man rolls his eyes but has his smirk hidden as you open the door for him. He tilts his head in thanks and strolls inside.

You hum, crossing your arms ahead of you and leaning on the doorframe as he looks around, “Don’t think too much over it… The baseline is, you’ll always have a bed here if you need it.” 

Ghost slips out, “What are you? Bloody boarding house?” The swelling in his chest made his words harsher than intended, but you just smile cheekily at him as eyes lock.

“Hell’s bells, if you want ta’ get me a business card just go ahead and print ‘em off already. I’ve no problem with it.” He stares and you laugh, shrugging. “Makes me feel good.”

Splaying your hands, you back out. 

“I know you probably won’t sleep,” Simon pauses, feeling caught but not showing it. “Libraries down the hall—if you smoke, use the back door. Kitchen is free game.”  

“Why?” He asks and you blink, confused.

“Well, why not?” Simon glares.

“You shouldn’t trust people like that.” A loud laugh echoes and makes the man annoyed with you.

“Simon,” you say, and he finds himself hanging on every word that falls from your lips in the moonlight. “Not everyone is out to get you. If you’re friends of Johnny’s, then you’re friends of mine. That boy can sniff a cheat faster than a hound can find a hare.” Perhaps it was the way his shoulders went back at that, or how his brows loosened, but you finish off with a soft explanation. “You’re safe under this roof.”

You wondered, not for that last time that night, if he’d ever been told that. From how his balaclava moved with a sharp jerk of his jaw, you assumed never. It made your lungs hurt. 

With a few more seconds of quiet gazing you nod and move back. 

“Goodnight, Simon.” You leave him staring at the door as you close it—eyes boring into the grain so harshly they might catch fire. 

Ghost doesn’t know how long he stays like that, but his ears twitch at the echo of running water and soundless footsteps. He should leave, he tells himself; this is dangerous, a voice hisses. It’s not safe here, how could it be? There were no guards—no weapons. If someone were to sneak in there wouldn’t be an alarm. 

A secluded home. Nothing around. 

Then why had your words seeped into him?

“You’re safe under this roof.” Simon closes his eyes harshly.

—

In the morning once everyone’s gone back to the base, you admit you don’t know if you’ll see Simon again; you probably won’t. But you find that you can live with that. The memory of his loosening tension is all you need to feel special in your own right. Those brown eyes that, if but for a moment, had bled so effortlessly feelings of something other than blood and death. 

As you sigh a dreamy chuckle to yourself, you get ready for the day before heading to your Hillman. The silent drive to work joins with the strange mix of weight and levitation to your chest. But halfway into town, it hits you. 

Silent.

There is an obvious lack of squeaking from under the hood of your car as you slide along the countryside. 

The smile doesn’t leave your face for weeks.

TAGS:

@luuvbuzz, @emerald-valkyrie, @anna-banana27, @blueoorchid, @cryingnotcrying, @writeforfandoms, @homicidal-slvt, @jade-jax, @frazie99, @elmoees, @littlemisstrouble, @alpineswinter, @phoenixhalliwell, @idocarealot, @lavalleon, @facelessmemories, @h-leigh, @20forty9, @glitter-anon-asks, @emily-who-killed-a-man, @neelehksttr, @aeneanc, @escapefromrealitysm, @i-d-1-0-t, @pparcxysm, @hawkscanendme, @caramlizedtomatos, @konigsleftkidney, @sanfransolomitatm, @maelstrom007, @jemandderkeinenusernamenfindet, @pheobees, @glitterypirateduck, @uselsshuman, @fan-of-encouragement, @halfmoth-halfman, @ghostlythunderbird, @I-inkage, @pukbadger, @kopatych11, @0nceinabluem00n, @cocrorapop, @knightofsexyness, @abnormalgeil, @smallseastone, @jacegons, @330bpm-whiplash, @simon-rileys-housewife, @4-atsu, @tiredmetalenthusiast

[redflagshipwriter]

Hot Ghouls in your Area 9

masterpost

“Good morning!”

Jason winced and moved the phone a little further from his face. “Is this Doctor Fenton?” 

“It's one of them! What can I do ya for?” Jack Fenton boomed, just as bombastic as his newsletter made him seem. Jason knew, deep in his heart, that Jack Fenton was indeed the one who had selected green neon bold for his headings and borders. 

Angels wept. Jason scrubbed his palm over his eye. This man had no poetry in his soul. “I, uh, had some questions about a ghost. I've read some of your articles and your most recent published paper on the topic.”

“We love ghosts!” Fenton bellowed. “Ask away!”

“Do you know a ghost called Phantom?” Jason tried.

“...Sure do,” Jack Fenton said. “Whatcha need?” 

Jason cleared his throat. “It's somewhat complicated,” he said evasively, because he didn't need these people to know he was the Red Hood. Fuck. He should have either gotten his helmet stored away or not given his real name. Phantom knew his face and that his name was Jason. Any information that got around via Phantom might tie his face to his alter ego. If Phantom said he got married to Jason, the Red Hood, that could lead to the end of the Bat family vigilantism.

“...He cause you trouble, sport?”

Jason let out a slight laugh. “You could say that, though it wasn't really his fault,” he admitted. He cast a paranoid eye out the window to be sure no siblings were creeping on him. “No, it's really more that…” Fuck, he should have planned this better. “Is there any information you can give me about how a human could contact him?” 

Not that Jason didn't have a phone number for the guy. But it made him very uncomfortable to have any basic knowledge or way to track Phantom down if he decided to leave Jason to whatever was going on. 

“I could probably do that,” Jack Fenton said slowly, now sounding like an entirely different human being. “Say, you wouldn't be Jeremy, would you?”

Jason blinked. “...How did you know?” He went with. Phantom had contact with a human guy named Jeremy? That might be his in.

“Oh, well then, you've definitely got to come over,” Dr. Fenton wheedled. It somehow came across as shifty. “You'll be wanting a whole primer on how the Ghost Zone works, won't ya?” 

“That would be immensely helpful,” Jason agreed. “But I'd hate to take up your valuable time.”

“Nonsense!” Fenton bellowed. Jason nearly lost his grip on his phone in surprise. “Come over Jeremy, I'm dying to meetcha!” 

So, there was a plan. Jason packed for a day trip and dialed up his travel agent. 

“Fuck off,” said Tim. “I'm busy. Christ.” 

“I need an airplane ticket and a rental bike to Illinois,” Jason continued. He tossed his mostly full bag on the sofa and went digging for the socks he knew he had washed the other night. “I'm going to go see some nerds about my impromptu adventure the other day.”

Tim groaned. That was the first Jason had given any hint at all about what had happened to him when he'd been ‘sacrificed.’ “What nerds?” He asked wearily. 

Jason grinned into his sock drawer. Gottem. “Why, do you all know each other?” He asked blithely. 

“Do you always antagonize people you want favors from?” Tim whined. A keyboard clacked rapidly in the background. “Jason, I swear to God, you massive bitch. Cut the crap and communicate, or I'm hanging up.” 

Jason frowned at his socks and grabbed a random pair. “You don't gotta be like that,” he said sulkily. He slammed the socks into his bag with a very unsatisfying silence. “So, the ritual doohickey sent me to the infinite underworld, I met a guy there actually and we are magically connected because he's who that dumb ritual matched me up to. He doesn't want to be stuck with a human so we are on the same page about breaking this. We started looking for answers and he took me back to Earth since it's not good for humans to be in the green dimension for too long.” 

There was silence from the other end of the line for a few seconds. “You're fucking lying,” Tim said. 

“Only by leaving things out.” A bit stung, Jason pulled a hand through his hair and accidentally ruined his good hair day. 

“What are you leaving out?” Tim rejoined swiftly.

Jason laughed at him. “You think you're getting that kinda information in exchange for plane tickets?” He asked incredulously. 

“You are the most annoying person who has ever tried to kill me.”

Ouch. That genuinely stung.

“Fuck off.” Jason slammed the drawers shut. 

“I could guess aliens or supernatural off of what you just said.” Tim ignored Jason’s very good point. “Based off of your trip to the Gotham U campus and-”

“Are you still stalking me?” Jason cut him off, incredulous. He scoffed. “Little buddy, you already got my pixie boots, Red Robin costume, and my Dad. What else do you wanna take from me?”

“I think that you were there to assess Daniel Fenton,” Tim ignored him.

Jason was silent for a moment. There was probably no point in pretending that Tim was wrong. “You already knew about the Fenton’s connection to the supernatural.” He was suddenly tired.

“His older sister is an intern at Arkham, she stepped out of line to get a chance to talk to Jeremy Waters.” Tim didn’t seem to notice that the mood had changed. He was caught up on whatever twenty level plan was whirring away internally.

Jason looked at the wall for a moment, not bothering to think about why that name was familiar. “...and that is…?”

“The guy who kidnapped you, keep up,” Tim snarked. “Her supervisor guessed what she was hinting at, shut her down, put a note about it in the private server so there was a paper trail if she turns out to be a collaborator.”

““Private” is a strong word to describe that server.” Jason rubbed at his jawline and hefted his bag out to the bathroom to gather his shaving kit. 

“Mmhm,” Tim said blandly. “I bugged her phone. The signal is absurdly bad, unexplainably bad. She doesn’t send a lot of messages, but she had a very suspicious call with Daniel Fenton where, among other things, she hinted she had inside knowledge regarding some kind of local mystery, possibly criminal activity. Her brother accused her of supporting crime.”

Jason groaned. “I’m going to interview their parents.” He checked that the razor blades were stowed away correctly before snapping shut the travel case. Then he noticed that his bathroom mirror could use a wipedown. He left his bag for a moment to dig for the cleaner.

“Probably for the best,” Tim said, definitely misunderstanding his purpose. “They seem…” He trailed off when he couldn’t find an appropriate adjective.

“You should read a book,” Jason said, because he saw an opportunity to be an asshole. “Anyway, I wanna get out to the area tonight and see them in the morning. What’s my flight?” He spritzed the glass and watched his reflection blur. It was oddly comforting to not have to stare at his green eyes.

‘That ghost zone was the same green as the Lazarus Pits,’ Jason thought dully. He didn’t really want to think about it. But he had a pretty good idea why he hadn’t had the reaction to the place that Danny expected a human to have.

“Kon could take you,” Tim said sweetly, which was basically a death threat. It was enough to jar him back to the real world. Kon was still not feeling chill about the Titans Tower scuffle. It probably wasn’t good for him to be so petty, but Jason was not going to be the one to tell baby Superdork that.

Jason winced. “I was thinking more like United.”

Tim snickered. 

[impala-dreamer]

Everything Has Changed

A Supernatural Story

~Sometimes, the person you fight alongside is also the person you with the most. And sometimes all that fighting is hiding other feelings, other desires...~

Dean Winchester x Fem!Reader

2,615 Words

Warnings: Frenemies to Lovers. Talk of hunt gone wrong. Mentions of blood. Angsty fighting. Sexy kissing. PG-13. Young, cocky Dean.

Originally Published to Patreon May 2023

Impala-Dreamer’s Masterlist  ~  Patreon  ~ Published Works

The tension inside of the Impala was just as thick as the mountain fog rolling across the winding country roads. The woods were as dark as Y/N and Dean were silent, neither wanting to speak again for fear of screaming once more.

The day hadn’t been great.

A simple hunt turned a little bloody on the wrong side and Y/N was hiding an almost certainly fractured wrist behind a mask of annoyance and self reliance. Dean was bruised and battered; various shades of red outlined his face from temple to jaw as the blood dried from claw swipes he failed to dodge.

They were a mess, but they were fine.

Physically fine.

Mentally, emotionally- things were rough.

For the better part of a year, Y/N had been teaming up with Dean whenever he called, easily slipping into the passenger seat when the Impala swung by. She was good, but not great. Eager to learn but annoyingly stubborn, often, like that afternoon, ignoring Dean’s warnings.

He shifted in his seat and gripped the wheel tight, his knuckles paling over the old leather. He sighed heavily, loudly, purposefully.

Y/N sucked in a deep breath and crossed her arms over her chest, wary of her wrist. She sneered but refused to look at him.

“Got something else to say?” she growled, prepared to pick up the fight if need be. She’d been rehearsing some biting remarks in her head for the last three and a half miles.

Dean clicked his tongue and set his right arm at twelve and his left hand dropped to his thigh. “No.”

Her neck nearly snapped as she whipped her face to look at him. “Ya sure? You’re a bit huffy over there.”

His jaw twitched. “So, what, now I can’t breathe? Is that a freakin’ crime?”

Her eyes narrowed. “Should be the way you do it.”

“What’s that supposed to mean!”

“I think you know.”

It meant absolutely nothing, but she had to say something, poke at him more.

“Ya know…” He took a breath and then shook his head, ignoring the impulse to explode. “Nah. Forget it.”

Y/N was enlivened, pulse rapid and eyes focused. “No, no, go on. Tell me more of what I don’t know, Dean.”

The way she enunciated each letter of his name made him shiver. It was hidden hatred shooting from her lips like poisoned darts to stab him in the chest.

He swallowed hard and scratched at his cheek. A cut reopened and his fingernail came back tinged in red. He rubbed it off on his jeans.

“You’re just- You’re gonna get yourself killed one of these days and I won’t be around to jump in front of the bullet again.”

Y/N cocked a brow, shocked and enraged. “Seriously? Again with this?” She let out a curt laugh and turned away again, staring out of the side window. “You are so fucking sexist.”

Dean gasped. “Excuse me? Sexist?”

“Yeah. Sexist. You think because I’m a woman I can’t take care of myself. That I need a big, strong man in flannel to come save me everytime we’re in the weeds. Well, guess what, fucko- I can handle myself just fi-”

As Y/N ranted, her voice rising in volume with every word, a shadow passed in front of the car and Dean slammed hard on the brakes. The headlights barely helped guide them through the thick fog and he panicked, throwing his right arm out across the car. His hand landed on Y/N’s chest and he pushed her back against the seat, barring her from the force of the sudden stop.

The tires screeched, gravel hit the undercarriage.

Y/N’s breath stopped as her back hit the leather seat.

Dean’s heart was racing, his body tense and damp with sweat. His eyes were wide and he stared out at a giant buck who stared right back, black eyes unblinking and unconcerned about how close to death he just was.

“What the… fuck…” Y/N gawked at the deer and then Dean and then down at his hand that was still quite stuck against her chest. “What the fuck?” She swatted at his hand and he pulled it back, clutching it to his own chest. “What the fuck!”

Dean shook himself and ran a hand down his face before gesturing at the deer. “He just- out of fucking nowhere. I-” He took a deep breath and watched the deer finally move from the road and disappear into the trees. “Wow. Are you OK?”

Y/N nodded. “Yeah. I… I think so. Yeah.” She rubbed at her wrist and winced. “Let’s just get to the motel, please.”

Dean grabbed the wheel at ten and two and steadied himself. “Good plan.”

The motel room was quiet; dark. They hadn’t even left a lamp on before they’d left that morning, so Y/N stepped into utter blackness. Not even the broken, blinking neon vacancy sign outside the window could permeate the thick curtains, and she nearly tripped over Dean’s discarded dirty jeans.

“Son of a cu-”

He came in slowly behind, shutting the door behind him and flipping the light switch. “You OK?”

The lights flooded her eyes and she groaned, lifting a hand to shield her eyes as she very dramatically stepped over his pants.

“Yeah, sure. Just trying not to get myself killed tripping over your damned jeans.”

His sigh was deep and he threw the deadbolt as if he were wishing it death. “Are we gonna do this all night?”

Y/N grit her teeth and tugged off her jacket, refusing to turn to look at him. “Do what?”

“Fight.”

He sounded sad suddenly and the pain in his voice made her pause. She held her breath, thinking, deciding if a fight was what she truly wanted. It wasn’t, but she couldn’t admit that even to herself, let alone say it out loud- to him.

“Yeah.” She looked back over her shoulder. “Yeah. I wanna fight all night. Because I have nothing better to do. Like wash this blood off of me or close my eyes for five seconds or stitch up that gash on your throat. Or-” She turned and her eyes landed on his throat. Her stomach tightened at the thought of laying her fingers there, of feeling his pulse beneath her hands. “So yeah, let’s fight.” She let the sarcasm out like a lion and Dean flinched.

He licked his lips slowly and shrugged his coat off, tossing the oversized leather onto the sofa. He bowed his head and sighed again. “I don’t wanna fight with you.”

She held her ground, arms tight around her middle as he looked up at her, green eyes shaded by thick lashes. He bit his lip, holding in a frown, keeping his face steady.

“I never wanna fight with you, Y/N/N,” he said softly.

“Sure got a funny way of showing it,” she grit. “Yelling at me constantly.”

His shoulders tensed up. “I don’t- yell at you constantly. Just when you’re doing something stupid.”

Y/N threw her hands up and spun away. “There it is! Dean Winchester calling me stupid again.”

“I didn’t call you stupid! I said you do stupid things.”

Her lip twitched. “What’s the difference?”

He hissed, jaw clenched, eyes narrowed and intense. “There’s a big difference.”

The air sizzled between them and Y/N gave up. She rolled her eyes and turned away, heading for the bathroom.

“Ya know what? Fuck this. I’m taking a shower. You can sit in your filth for a while.”

Dean scoffed, done. “Fine. Good. Go.”

She took a step and then turned back, fist clenched and unfair rage boiling in her gut.

“No. I’m not done. While we’re at it-”

Trying to ignore her, Dean bent at the waist and untied his boots. “What? Wanna tell me how sexist I am again?”

She reared up, standing as tall as she could and still not casting a shadow near him. “Kinda. But since you mention it- What the hell was that back in the car?”

He stood, confused. “What was what?”

“Trying to cop a feel?” She gestured to her chest and raised a brow.

Dean laughed, disgusted at her accusation. “You idiot.” He waved her off and turned, sitting down to yank his boots off. “I was trying to keep you safe. That’s all I ever do anymore. Keep you safe!”

She clicked her tongue and sneered at him. “I can handle myself, you dick.”

His boots thudded on the bare carpet and he shook his head. “No. I don’t mean- I didn’t mean you can’t take care of yourself, I just mean-”

She didn’t let him finish, stepping closer and letting her voice grow. “What? Keep digging the hole deeper, Dean. Go on!”

He floundered. “I mean I… I’m just- I don’t want you to get hurt. OK?” He stood, unable to reason with her or himself. “Is that enough for you? Is that what you want to hear?” He ran his hand down his face, exhausted and hurting. “I’m scared you’ll get hurt or get yourself dead and then where will I be?”

She softened, but the fight was still tingling inside of her. “What would you care?” she spat.

He stalked towards her, fingers twitching at his sides; his annoyance with her at its peak. “Oh, I’d care, Y/N/N.” He stopped when his toes hit hers and he stared down, done with fighting, verbally and otherwise. “I’d really fucking care.”

The gentleness of his confession and the heat pushing off of him made her shiver.

She looked up, confused and a little scared. “You’re being weird.”

He laughed under his breath and lifted his hand, letting it hover over her cheek. “And you’re being a fucking… clueless… idiot.”

He leaned in and kissed her, exhaling hard against her lips, cradling her face in his big hand. The shock of it all closed her eyes and she held her breath, struggling to process. When he was done, he backed up an inch and looked down with a proud smile.

“I’ve been wanting to do that forever.”

She breathed again, taking in the scent of him, the heat, the desire. Her body ached but she refused to give in, confusion and self-doubt swirling in her head.

She tugged away from his touch. “Holy shit! You can’t just-”

He licked her taste from his lips. “You didn’t like it?”

Her stomach flipped and her heart pounded in her ears. “I mean, I did, but you can’t just- kiss someone like that!”

“So… I can’t do it again?”

His grin was devastating and she fought the smart voice in her head and dove into the stupid. She tugged on his collar and leaned against him.

“You better fucking do it again…”

This time, she breathed with him and he licked into her mouth with tentative curiosity. He tasted like the pile of onions he’d stacked on his burger at dinner, but in a strangely good way. Onions and whiskey and stale smoke. It should have been disgusting but on him it was special. It was Dean. He was kissing her. He was caressing her shoulders, dragging a hand slowly down her spine.

She broke away to breathe, a little dizzy, a little warm. “What the fuck are we doing?”

He dropped a kiss to the side of her mouth and his left hand fell to her ass. “Something we should have done forever ago.”

Y/N slid her hand from his collar down his chest, marveling at the tightness of his ribs and the softness of his belly.

His fingers curled at the nape of her neck and he tugged her closer as he hummed into her mouth.

She trembled, hooked a finger into his belt loop. “This is insane.”

“Is it?” He smirked and trailed his kiss down her jaw, stopping every other inch to enjoy her delicate skin. “I’ve been fucking dreaming of this. Of you.”

“Really?” Her head fell back as he licked at the dip of her throat. “I thought you hated me.”

“Could never hate you,” he whispered; teeth scraping her flesh. “Every time you get into a mess I go crazy. Don’t wanna lose you.”

She pushed at his chest and made him stop and look down at her. She bit her lip and blinked to clear her head.

“You never had me to lose, Dean.” She batted her lashes and jutted her hips forward just enough to make his eyes flutter.

He wrapped his arms tight around her and grinned. “Pretty sure I always did.” He kissed her again, shutting her up and leaning over her. She dipped backwards, clawing at his shoulders for fear of falling. “And if I didn’t…” He pecked her lips and let her go, leaving her cold and starving for him. “I do now.”

He walked away as if nothing happened, turning away from her and moving towards the bed. He shed his flannel and tugged his belt from its buckle.

“You’re a real asshole,” she whispered, mouth dry and thirsty for him. She spun to watch him, wondering what his game was.

He tugged his zipper down and let his jeans fall to the floor. “Am I though?”

She tried to think about it, to think about anything but the thick thigh muscles appearing beneath his boxers. “Um… Yes?”

“Not so sure anymore are ya?”

With one hand over his head, he tugged his tee shirt off and balled it up, tossing it into the bathroom. Her mind went blank for a long minute as she stared. He was cut up and caked in blood, but beautiful. She chewed her lip.

“Not so sure,” she admitted. “I think…”

His fingers teased at the hem of his shorts and he turned his right ear towards her, waiting. “You think what?”

Her mouth flooded as he inched the boxers down.

“I think…uh…”

Dean bent at the waist and yanked the thin fabric away. When he stood, he found her staring and his cheeks burst with heat.

“Tell ya what,” he said, stepping out of the shorts and toeing off his socks in the same movement. “I’m gonna hop in the shower. You can stay out here and keep thinking or-” He licked his lips and her thighs clenched. “You can join me.”

He disappeared into the shadow of the bathroom and Y/N stood staring at the place he’d left, her mind flipping over the last few minutes.

She heard the light flip on, the squeaky taps turn, the water start to rush onto the tiles.

The curtain shifted and steam appeared, billowing out into the room.

She was still thrumming from his kiss, burning from his touch, but her thoughts were a jumbled mess. If she went in there, she was gonna let him kiss her again. She was going to let him touch her, strip her clothes off, run his hands and eyes over her naked body. If she went into that bathroom, she was going to fuck Dean Winchester, the boy she’d been fighting with forever, the man who continually stepped in to save her ass from disaster. The annoying asshole with the perfect smile and cocky brow. The boy in the oversized leather coat and jeans ripped at the knees and a knife in every pocket. The hero she’d wanted since the first time they’d met.

Everything was going to change.

“You comin’?”

His voice startled her from her thoughts and Y/N sighed.

She kicked off her shoes and took a leap, walking into the steam and his waiting arms.

if you enjoy, please let me know! Feedback goes farther than you think, and reblogs are love

[loomiseater]

Request: Dilf! Billy Loomis x fem!reader x Ethan Landry

Plot: smut, go wild (not too wild)-bonus points if they bring the knives out to tease her

Blade

warnings: smut ofc!, knife play, ass eating, oral m!receiving, blood mentioned, sub ethan, scream au, plot twist, and intercourse.

Criticism is appreciated! I would love to know how I can improve on my writing.

Dilf! Billy Loomis x fem!reader x Ethan Landry

Navigation

Request page

Masterlist

Scream masterlist

A/N: This took me so long to write omg 😭 I hope u enjoy this <3

Written: August 28th, 2024- September 1st, 2024

Published: September 1st, 2024

Summary: You're teacher and boyfriend want to fuck you.

wc: 3,557

It was finally the last class of the day. I was so excited because I love this class, Mr. Loomis lets us do whatever and my boyfriend, Ethan, is in this class. Ethan was still making his way up to the classroom while I was already here.

My outfit was basic but cute today. High waist jean shorts, an oversized Obx shirt, and some all white dunks. ( I am the most basic black girl you will ever meet 😭) As I walked into the classroom I noticed Mr. Loomis eyeing me..hopefully he doesn’t say anything about my shorts.

But deep down I secretly hoped he noticed it.

As I walking to my seat I could feel his eyes staring holes into my back. My back was turned but I could just feel his stare. Mr. Loomis is pretty chill but he also has these intense glares to where you can’t tell the emotions he’s feeling.

As I was putting my stuff away I didn’t even notice Ethan. He sat down next to me and welcomed me with a warm smile. “Hey babe, how was your day?” He asked me while he was getting his laptop out. I smiled back at him before answering “It was good! And yours?”

“Kinda sucked, had a bunch of tests today” he responded. I frowned a bit since he didn’t even bother to look up at me. He was still rummaging in his backpack looking for something.

At least ten minutes into class, Ethan got up and went to the vending machine to get us snacks. I started scrolling on my phone and saw a post about the recent Ghostface killings. The shits terrifying, especially since it’s in Woodsboro.

Of course my parents choose to be out of town a lot when there’s murders going on, lucky me. I was looking into more details about the killings as Mr. Loomis came up to me. He took a look at my phone and his whole demeanor changed. It was almost as if he was…excited?

He pointed to my phone before he spoke up and said “ya know, I was around for the first killings” my eyes widened. I heard about the killings but I didn’t know Mr. Loomis was apart of the “Woodsboro Massacre” in the 90s. “Was the killer ever found?” I asked.

He stared at me for a bit before answering. He looked as if he was trying to figure out what to say. “It was actually two killers but, I guess they got away” he replied whilst shrugging his shoulders.

Before I could say anything else he went back to his desk. He looked like he was texting someone.

Weird.

I checked my phone to see if I got a text from Ethan, nothing from him but I realized my phone was on 10% so I decided to grab his backpack to look for his charger. I unzipped Ethan’s backpack and stuck my hand in the big pocket and all of a sudden I felt something…sticky? “What the hell?” I said to myself. I was so confused.

I took my hand out and saw red stuff on my fingers. My eyes widened and my heart was beating fast. I didn’t react as much because I didn’t wanna make a scene in front of everyone. But why the hell does Ethan have blood in his backpack?? He wouldn’t be a killer, right?

Ethan’s too dorky for that! He’s sweet and caring! The boy wouldn’t even hurt a fly. And besides, Ethan has a bright future ahead of him so I don’t think he would do anything to jeopardize that…right?

Okay, I could just be overreacting. Maybe its a prop! He is in drama class so that could explain. I want to look deeper in his backpack but I feel like thats an invasion of his privacy..but somethings telling me to keep looking.

I looked around the classroom first before digging in his backpack again. I felt something sharp and metallic like I didn’t pull it fully out the backpack but just enough to where only I could see.

It was a knife.

Why does he have a knife in his backpack? Is he gonna kill someone? Is he gonna kill me? But why would he kill me? I’m his girlfriend, of course he wouldn’t kill me. But then Randy’s words popped into my head.

"There's always some stupid, bullshit reason to kill your girlfriend."

In the corner of my eye I saw Ethan walking back into the classroom. I hurried and put everything back but I still had some of the blood on my hand. “Shit!” I said to myself. I hurried and wiped the blood on the inside go my shirt.

Before he walked over to me, he went to Mr. Loomis’s desk. Looks like they’re having a serious conversation, I wonder whats it about. Mr. Loomis looks angry and Ethan looks annoyed.

I saw Ethan walking back to our desk so started acting natural, acting like my boyfriend didn’t have a knife and blood in his backpack.

He threw the snacks on the table and sat back down in his seat sending death glares to Mr. Loomis.

“So..whats that about?” I asked him. He turned his body in my direction and now had a fake smile plastered on his face. “Just talking to him about a test” Ethan said. I knew he was lying, it was clear as day. I just nodded my head, I didn’t wanna make an argument about this.

I went back to scrolling on my phone, the classroom door opened and it was Sam Loomis. She’s Mr. Loomis daughter and also my best friend. She waved at me before she walked over to her dads desk to talk to him about something.

I know I have a boyfriend and everything but..Mr. Loomis is kinda hot. I don’t know how Sam’s mom left that. The way I would let that man do the most nastiest things to me and- oh my gosh stop it Y/n! You have a boyfriend. I always think these things about him and it’s so hard to stop.

I was pulled out of my thoughts as I saw Sam walking towards our table. “Hey!” She said happily. “Hey, I haven’t seen you in class all day, where’ve you been?” I asked with a slight frown. “Doctors appointment” she answered as I nodded my head. “Anyways..I asked my dad if you could stay with us until your parents get back and he said yes! He doesn’t like the idea of you being alone while a killer is on the loose” Sam told me.

Ethan’s eyes widened at her statement. I noticed this but I didn’t say anything. “Aww that’s so sweet him! Tell him I said thank you” I warmly said. “You can tell him yourself” she giggled.

“And stop making googily eyes at my dad..you’re drooling” she whispered in my ear as she walked away smirking. I scoffed at her little comment. I didn’t know my little crush on him was that obvious.

“So you’re staying over there tonight?” Ethan asked. “Yeah, its scary being in that big house all by myself” I nervously answered.

He looked down at my phone and his eyes eventually trailed over to the charger that was plugged into my phone. “Is that my charger?” He asked lowly. Anytime Ethan speaks to me in that tone it terrifies me. He has a bad temper..

“Um- I uh got it from your backpack..” I answered hesitantly. His eyes turned black if thats even possible. Before I could even defend myself the bell rang, signaling its time to go home.

He gripped my hand tightly coming face to face with me. “Don’t even think about leaving this classroom” he sternly said. I felt shivers run down my back. Maybe he really is gonna kill me.

Ethan made me stay in my chair while everyone got up and went home. After everyone left it was just me, Ethan, and Mr. Loomis. I got out of Ethan’s grip and ran to Mr. Loomis. “Please! You have to help me! Ethan’s the killer, Mr. Loomis” I begged as grabbed his arm but all he did was turn around and smile.

“I know, sweetheart” he said as I froze.

The hell does he mean he knows.

I looked back at Ethan as he now had his blood covered knife in his hand. I didn’t hesitate, I ran towards the door and tried to open it but it was locked. Shit!

“Help!” I screamed and banged on the door. “Please you think they can hear you? Everyones going home and the hallways are loud. No ones getting you outa here, doll” Mr. Loomis announced.

Im so confused. My teacher and boyfriend are the killers? I don’t get it! This has to be some sick joke.

I tried to run to the window but Mr. Loomis grabbed me from behind and placed me on his desk. “Let me go!” I shouted as I tried to get out of his tight grip. I hit, punched, slapped, but he didn’t budge.

Ethan was walking up to us with the blood covered knife. Ethan gripped my chin tightly as I felt tears began to come down my cheeks. “Please don’t do this” I begged as he let out a dark chuckle.

Mr. Loomis let me out of his grip so Ethan could control me now. “Relax, Y/n, we’re not gonna kill you…right now. We gotta have our fun with you first” he laughed.

Ethan smeared the blood that was on the knife onto my face. My body was shaking and my blood ran cold. This has to be a dream.

“Who’s blood is that?” I whispered. “It’s Tara’s” Ethan answered. “No!” I sobbed. My friend was probably murdered by these two. How did I not see the signs earlier that Ethan was this way.

“Stop your bitchin, she’s not dead yet” Mr. Loomis scoffed. “Where is she?” I asked as more tears ran down my face. “You don’t need to worry about that. What you should be worried about is if she’s gonna live or not” Mr. Loomis said with a grin.

“You two are psychotic!” I shouted angrily. “Were gonna play a little a game… if you answer correctly, Tara lives, if you answer incorrectly, Tara dies” Mr. Loomis explained.

“Mr Loomis-“ I started off but he cut me off. “Ugh call me Billy, Mr. Loomis makes me feel old” he said while rolling his eyes. “-Billy why are you making me do this? I’m innocent!” I cried. “You’re boyfriend came up with the idea, not me. Besides I already did this in the 90’s “ he laughed.

“Whats the question?” I asked trying to change the subject back to Tara.

“Who was the original Ghostface” Ethan questioned as I rolled my eyes. “It was this psychotic man, he basically just told on himself a couple of minutes ago” I answered as Ethan smirked. “Billy Loomis is your final answer?” He asked as I nodded my head.

“Thats incorrect” Ethan stated. My heart was pounding like crazy. “What do you mean incorrect? Billy basically just snitched on himself!” I said back. “The killers were me AND Stu Macher” Billy replied as I turned my head towards him.

“You didn’t say anything about two killers! And how the hell am I supposed to know who Stu Macher is?” I shouted. I tried wiping my tears but it was no use. Nothing was gonna stop them from pouring down.

“Oh please he was one of the prime suspects. I just killed him off because he was too fucking stupid” Billy stated. He was all nonchalant about this- like this was all normal.

“And since you were incorrect..your friend dies” Ethan said as this dark smile was plastered all over his face. My blood went cold, my mouth became dry, my friend was gonna die- because of me.

“Please don’t do this” I sobbed. How the hell do I even get out of this situation? Tara’s dead and its all my fault.

“We won’t kill her…unless” Billy started off. My head raised to the sound of his voice. This is my chance to save Tara and get out of this classroom. “What do you need? Money? My parents are loaded, I can get you-“ I was cut off by Ethan who looked at me with a smirk.

“You have sex with us. Both us” Ethan said as he tilted his head. “I-I can’t” I stuttered. I know I should do whatever to save Tara but having a threesome with my boyfriend and our teacher?

“Oh, please. Don’t act like you don’t wear those tight shorts for nothing” Billy said as began to light his cirgerette. “I wear them for my boyfriend, not you. Well, ex-boyfriend now” I explained. Ethan then looked at me with a nasty snarl.

“I am still your boyfriend, do you understand?!” He shouted as he gripped my arm. I nodded in response. Before I could I even react, Billy was pushing me flat on my back onto the flat surface of his desk. “Been wanting to do this your pretty little ass since I first laid eyes on you” Billy states before he leaned into kiss me.

I can’t lie..I always found him hot and wanted to kiss him, but I can’t believe this is happening. It’s all so surreal. I kissed him back as pushed my legs apart, groping the skin around it. I moaned into the kiss, the sloppy kiss where our tongues collided together as he groped my body everywhere.

“Thats how you kiss a woman, Landry” Billy stated as he smirked after breaking the kiss up. “Relax, she’s still my girlfriend” Ethan irritately said. “No, I’m not” I snapped back. Billy laughed at his Ethan’s reaction whilst I unbuckles his pants. I could see the outline of Billy’s dick in his underwear. I pulled his boxers down and man was he huge.

It was so girthy and his tip was leaking with pre cum. He was way bigger than Ethan. I looked at it in wide eyes as he grinned. “What?You never seen a real mans dick, sweetheart” Billy cockily stated as I rolled my eyes. “Just shut up and fuck me” I demanded before stroking his dick some.

“Shit!” He moaned to himself. I wrapped my hand around his dick even tighter, squeezing him some. I smeared some of his pre cum from. His tip all along his dick as he groaned in pleasure. “You like that?” I teasingly asked as I could see it was ticking Ethan off.

“I don’t have time for this teasing shit”Billy grunted as he grabbed me by the waist and bent me over his desk. He yanked my shorts down and was now in the crook of my neck. “Lets see how good this pretty pussy taste” he lowly said before giving me a slap to the ass. I shrieked since the the sting was still there.

He then slid my panties all the way down and I felt the cool air hit my sopping heart. Billy got down own his knees as I felt his hands spread my ass cheeks apart. I looked back down at him as he stuck his face in between my ass. “Ahh-mhhm!” I moaned.

Ethan has never done this to me before so its definitely a new experience. My hands gripped the desk as he began thrust his tongue in and out of me.

Ethan started walking towards me and I let out a little giggles. He grabbed my shin before he spoke sternly to me. “Have your little while you can” he said before roughly letting me go.

Billy placed a kiss to my my asshole one last time before standing up to his full height. I felt his tip poking at my entrance from behind, and after a couple seconds of teasing he pushed himself in all the way as I let out the most pornographic moan ever.

“YES!” I screamed.

I heard Billy chuckle from behind me as he pulled out and thrusted himself back in. He placed his large hand on my back which let me to arch it some.

Ethan was sitting at one of the tables in front us watching the whole thing. He was angry.

I put my attention back on Billy. My pussy was literally soaking. He was sliding in and out of me so easily. He grabbed my pulled my hair into a makeshift ponytail and started pounding me even harder. It was like he was on some type of mission.

It was silent, nothing but the sounds of our skin slapping.

Here I am fucking my teacher who’s a murderer. I really lost all of my self respect.

The stretch from his dick was amazing. He then lifted one of my legs and placed it on the desk. My eyes fluttered from the pleasure. “You fuck me so good!” I breathlessly said. “I know, fuck! You’re so wet!” He said to himself.

I felt my knee buckle as he rolled his hips into me. “Billy- I can’t take it-“ I moaned. “Stop your whining and take this dick” he said back. He moved his hand in front of me and began rubbing my clit while he pounded from behind.

My friend is probably dead right now and while I’m about to get an orgasm from her murderer.

I couldn’t control it. I felt myself tightening around his dick. The feeling in my stomach all of a sudden snapped.

I squirted.

That was the first time I’ve ever done that.

Billy was still thrusting in me as I could feel his breath in the crook of my neck. His dick began to twitch so he hurried and pulled out, turned me around and pumped himself a couple of times before cumming on my stomach.

He was out of breath just as I was.

“I didn’t know old men could fuck that good” I joked. He playfully rolled his eyes at my comment.

Before I could even turned around, Ethan yanked my arm around to look at him. “Since you wanna be whore, get on your fucking knees” he commanded. I didn’t bother to argue back so I just did as told.

He hurriedly unbuckled his belt and pulled hisself out. He slapped my cheek with dick. I can’t believe how hard he was. I didn’t have time to react, he just shoved his dick in my mouth.

I started sucking him while looking into his eyes. Nothing but pure evil. He really has gone off the deep in. Ethan grabbed the back of my head and shoved his dick down my throat all the way.

He then pulled the knife out from his back pocket and lightly ran it across my face. “So pretty when my dick is shoved in your mouth, baby” he commented. He had that evil smirk across his face that I just wanted to slap off.

I took him out of my mouth and started sucking on his balls. “Good girl” he grunted.

From the corner of my eye I could see Billy sitting in his chair with his legs sprawled out, stroking himself.

I gave a hard suck to Ethan’s balls one last time before I deep throated him. “Oh, fuck!” He mumbled. He even stumbled a bit. The room was filled with my gulps of me taking Ethan down my throat along with his whimpers.

“You’re doing so good, Y/n” he whined. “Yea, take that dick, just like that, fuck!”

I fluttered my eyes at him and thats what set him off. He exploded inside my mouth, almost falling but managed to keep his balance. He pushed my head all the way down on his dick so I could swallow every last drop.

He sighed in relief with his head thrown back.

“Stand up” he said.

I stood up and Ethan grabbed his knife, which weirdly turned me on. He held onto the blade part and rubbed the handle onto my wet slit. He rubbed it around a bit on my clit as I moaned in pleasure.

He pulled the knife away from my heat and shoved the handle part into my mouth, making me taste myself.

“Taste good, don’t it?” He asked as I nodded my head.

Ethan took the knife from mouth which made a pop sound. I grabbed the knife from as he watched me intently.

The knife was in my hand…so I did it.

I forced the blade into Ethan’s stomach.

He started couching up blood from his mouth and there was blood spilling out of his stomach pretty fast.

“How could you?” Was the last thing he choked out of his mouth before he fell to the ground. I stood over his dying body as his eyes were filled with betrayal. Good.

I smiled at my work as Billy came up from behind me brining me into a hug.

“We did it baby” I happily said as he picked me up. I wrapped my legs around his waist whilst still holding the blood covered knife. “Yes we did” he said back with a smirk.

He placed a kiss to my cheek before brining me back to his desk.

[abalonetea]

Hi, I’m Katie! I’m a chronically ill, indie author, the primary source of income for my family, a former horse trainer, forever a werewolf enthusiast, and the COO for Wandering Words Media!

You can also find me on Patreon under the same name, Abalonetea, or check out my published books at the links below!

Youth Sunken: a horror novel about the fountain of youth and things that lurk in the deep!

Howl: a werewolf YA that follows three brothers in a small, southern town! 

I Drowned In The Summer of 85: a tragic romance turned ghost story, set at a summer camp.

Coaltown: a creature feature horror set in the Alaskan wilds, at Sweetwater mines. the first in a trilogy.

God Is Dead series: a four-book series with a bonus novella about possessions spreading like an infection and the potential end of the world.

Consider swinging by my KOFI for a quick bit of support... 

Check out my KOFI SHOP...

Or you can check out this WISHLIST if you prefer! 

My current primary projects include...

Devil Mine

SHED

Cryptid Hearts Series

How To Date A Werewolf

...and getting prepped for next year’s @writeblrsummerfest!

Interested in knowing more about upcoming K. E. Koontz projects? Sign up for my mailing list HERE!

[ilovegrumpyoldmen]

LOGAN HOWLETT X M!READER

PART ONE: THE BAR.

Btw: I’m also on wattpad, @ilovegrumpyoldmen. This story will be published in parts but shouldn’t take to long. They will come out faster on wattpad tho :3

——————————————

I walked into the local bar, bored and pissed off from a recent breakup. I sat down, popping my neck, sighing, and ordering my usual. As I was drinking I looked around the bar. That's when I saw him, THE hottest fucking guy I've ever seen. I started internally freaking out. I used my phone camera to fix my messed up hair. I've never bothered styling it, I typically just let it do whatever... but for this hunk? Shit, I'll style my hair however he wants.

I chugged the rest of my drink and slid off the barstool, popping up the collar of my jacket and confidently striding over to the hot guy. As I walked closer I noticed his hair, it was styled with these small, almost cat like, little flippy pieces. Cute, like blowjob handles. I took a final deep breath and tapped his shoulder. He turned to me. Holy fucking piss. He's so goddamn pretty. His eyes? Heavenly. I stood there just staring at him.

"Y' got a starin' problem or somthin, bub?" The wildly attractive man said in a gruff tone, worn down over the years from excessive drinking. I quickly cleared my throat. "No! No.. sorry just uhm.. drunk?" I tried to make an excuse. The man just sighed. "I don't do autographs anymore kid." He shook his head. "No!!! No I don't want an autograph.. uhm.." I trailed off, his handsome face making me forget the lines I practiced in my head.

"Uh.." My mouth felt dry. God just spit it the fuck out. "Fuckin' kids..." The man grumbled to himself, downing a glass of whiskey like it was water. Fuck that was hot, seeing his Adam's Apple bob when he swallowed. I made an exaggerated cough just to make sure I had his attention. "Uhm, hello.. I'm Y/N." I gave my best smile that I've been workshopping in the mirror damn near daily. The man just chuckled a little. "Logan." I watched his eyes look me up and down.

After some mildly awkward conversation I got to know all about him. He used to be an X-Man. How epic was that!? "So.. jus' been takin' it a day at a time." Logan hummed while downing his 7th glass of whiskey since we started talking. I stayed quiet for a moment. "You're gonna kill yourself if you keep drinking like that." I said quietly so no one else would hear, not wanting to embarrass him on accident. I was getting worried with his drinking habits, watching him basically be a garbage disposal for whiskey. "I'll be fine, thanks bub." He rubbed his face, setting down the glass on the bar with a loud clink.

He sighed deeply. "I gotta go kid, it was real nice meetin' ya." He got up, slinging his jacket over his shoulder. "Uhm.. wait." I said, getting up as well. He cocked an eyebrow, waiting for me to continue. "Can I have your number?" I finally managed to ask. "Sure bub." He wrote his number on a napkin and handed it to me. He ruffled my hair and left. I stared at the napkin, my heart racing faster than a damn bullet train.

[your-girl-mj]

morning after [1610!miles × f!reader]

summary: morning after with hangovers and your sweet boyfriend miles

warning: mama rio in early mornings /jk

note: she/her for reader, he/him for miles. aged up!miles and reader <3

created: august 10, 2023

published: august 15, 2023

first part | second part.

[name] woke up feeling wasted the night before, which is true. she blinks the lights out until she gets used to it. looking around, she just figured out she's in miles's room.

she was scooted to the far corner of the bed, blanket neatly tucked her in, with an empty side of the mattress.

the girl slowly sat up, and she was hit with a major headache. hammering into her brain. a groan left her lips before she lay down again to make it stop.

[name] was rubbing the side of her head when miles came into his room. "hey. morning, baby." he was holding a bowl of freshly made soup, with a towel hanging on his arm. he spoke so softly to her, scared that any loud sounds would make her hangover worse.

"hi," matching his tone, she looked confused at the bowl in his hands as miles gave her a peck on her crown. "what's this?"

"breakfast, i made it." he grinned proudly. with a twip sound, he shot a web to glass of water at the table across the bed. when he retrieved it, the water spilt and wet the floor, "oh shoot—!" he was quick to send a sheepish beam

a giggle erupted from her throat, "you're such a dork." miles laid the towel on her lap and put the bowl in her hands.

"don't eat it yet," then taking off to get towels on his drawers, muttering; "didn't think that one through."

"¿mijo, estás bien por ahí?" mrs morales' voice is heard from outside the room, [name] peak at the agape door she saw her cleaning the kitchen. she's cleaning the mess miles made. [son, are you okay over there?]

"buenos dias, señora." the girl greeted, slowly sitting up again, as mrs. came in the room. not noticing miles hanging the now wet towel by his window sill next to his newly washed jacket. [good morning, mrs.]

"¡buenos dias, mija!" her voice made a slight knock on the brain, but [name] smiled warmly at her mother-in-law. "¿ya te lo comiste? miles lo hizo solo para ti." [good morning, daughter!] [did you already eat it? miles made it just for you.]

"not yet, but i'm sure it's good—" the girl was about to sip, but mrs. morales stopped her before she could get a taste. the spoon full was frozen in mid-air as she waited for the woman's words, thinking she did something wrong.

"ah!" a single sound makes it feel like you did something you should've. "mijo, feed her. i'm getting her some aspirin." with that, she left the room, leaving the door open for reasons.

"i was gonna before you came in," miles muttered a comment, rolling his chair closer to the bed, smiling at his girl who mirror it back.

"what did you just say?" mrs morales swiftly turned to face where his room is. her tone is blaring enough to be heard loud and clear. hands rested on her hips with a deep frown.

"i said, i was already planning to, mama!" miles cupped a hand over his mouth, not wanting to make [name]'s hangover worst. "sorry 'bout the noise, [nickname]." he sends a sheepish grin, stirring the soup, then scooping a spoon full and feeding her.

the two can hear mrs. morales muttering along the lines of, "if i heard one bad mouth, i'll ground him for three months. mummbling and muttering, i will woop his—" and the rest is mystery.

"its okay," she replied once swallowed, "i like lively mornings with you," [name] rested her hand over his, a beam never seems to left her features, "any morning with you, to be honest. it's been a while since i stayed over." with that, she continued to eat as he fed her. mrs. morales order's.

miles feel the same warmth in his heart at his girl. thinking about it, it's been a while since they spent the night together, and it's because he's busy being spiderman, a son, and a student all together. he only has a little time to be her boyfriend.

he soon feels guilt in his chest once again, the same one he felt last night. he now knows what she meant when she said he cancelled another date. sober [name] said it was fine while drunk [name] is saying she feels unloved.

they do say drunk words are sober thoughts.

before miles can bring up the topic, his dad already there to join the chaos. "what's the fuss all about?" he gave his wife a bear hug from behind. he's already in uniform, ready for work.

"my daughter has a hangover," mrs. morales stated, she finally found the medicine, and strolled her way back. those words never fail to make [name] melt on the spot.

"kidnapping is illegal." mr. morales reminded her, making himself a cup of coffee. his wife ignored his words and set water on the table as well as the aspirin the girl needed.

"drink this once you're done eating. miles, you're in charge of her." she gave him a firm look before pulling the door to only a few inches open.

"i'm starting to think she loves you more than me," miles shrugged, taking a few sips on the soup as well before feeding his girl. his eyes are literally heart-shaped as he looks at her lovingly.

"sorry, you have to find it this way, babe," [name] matches his tone, drawing a chuckle from her s/o. after a short moment, she leaned to his headboard with a sigh. "sorry, i got drunk. you probably had a hard time getting me home," she refused to meet his eyes, playing with the helm of the blanket on top of her.

"nah, it's cool. you're adorable when you're drunk." he kissed her on the nose, which she crunched up in process. "do you remember anything yesterday?" thinking she might be able to recall what she said to him.

as miles fetch her water and medicine, she couldn't help but get curious. "no. did we swing to your room?"

"if we did, the streets in brooklyn will be close for major clean up." his hand was fast to catch the thrown book at him, just seconds after his spider sense activated. he spun to face her, dorky beam is present to his face.

his girl only narrowed her eyes at him, "i don't know if i should be pissed or attracted to you right now." miles only shook his head with a laugh.

he thought back what her words were about last night. he wanted to make things clear and apologise for cancelling his dates with her more often than he intended.

she did say she doesn't drink, but why change that last night? he thought about it. clogs working on his brain before he was hit with reality. but he wanted to confirm it before assuming.

"is there any reason why you..drink last night?" miles asked gently and worried at the same time, not wanting to make her taken back with the sudden question.

"uh.. i kinda wanna know what it tastes like and... i guess i lost track.." it was the hesitancy in her voice that made his assumption higher. "this thing tastes amazing, by the way. i didn't know you had a chef dna in your blood." [name] smiled lightly, holding the bowl up then setting it to his bedside table.

changing the topic, he thought. "what can i say? i'm a genius," he hid his flustered expression with a smirk. miles hand her the aspirin, sitting beside her on his bed. miles watched her chugged up the water. once she was done, he started, "y'know, you can tell me anything, right?" taking her hand in his. miles' other hand put the cup away, right next to the bowl.

as the heat of his palms envelopes hers, it made her lean her body to him, swallowing the heat of his body, head on his shoulder. miles gladly accepts the gesture, wrapping his arms around her. "i know you basically know all my secrets." chuckling, she played it cool.

miles rest his head on top of hers, breathing out a sigh, "not all of them.." pulling her to his lap, just letting her rest. he peaked the crown of her head. "¿Por qué bebiste hermosa?" [why did you drink, beautiful?]

[name] can tell he was worried, she also feels a little guilty. miles let her play with the helm of his shirt, folding and unfolding, tugging it, wrinkling it. whatever made her to process her words to say. "i don't know.."

"you don't know?" his hands tapping on her thighs, before drawing — doodling on her back with the tip of his finger. they're completely relaxed to each other, to the point they didn't see mrs. morales sneaking a picture of them, then letting them be.

"i was... feeling kinda lonely, i guess.." she crumbled the bottom of his shirt, "i don't really know.." she whispered, dancing around the truth. she's too embarrassed to admit that she misses him dearly,

they've been like this for almost a year. few months after miles became spiderman, he's always there for her.

they still have time together, but after a few times of miles missing a date or hangout... those few times became often. and she feels like she's his best friend again, just.. hanging around for a short while before he leaves.

"y'know, you told me you feel unloved because i always cancelled our dates..." miles feel her hands stopped fidgeting, her state completely frozen. "is it true?"

when [name] only stayed quiet, he suck his teeth. "hey, it's okay if you do. i won't cancel on you again, i promise you."

"...i—" she took a breath, "i don't want to feel like a priority to you..." miles frowned at that, "you're already busy being spiderman, and with your studies not to mention with your parents, i don't want to squeeze myself in there—"

[name] was unable to finish as his lips pressed into hers, miles pulled away from a second, looking at her briefly before locking their lips in a kiss again.

once pulled away, the girl is in awe for a short amount of time before hiding into his neck. miles gave her ear a kiss, whispering. "you don't have to squeeze yourself in. you're already in it." sighing, disappointed to himself, "it was my fault.."

"miles..." she shook her head, ready to deny his words.

"no, don't deny it." he pulled away, looking at her beautiful face, cupping it in his hands. "I've been a bad boyfriend to you for so many months now... and i'm really sorry, sunflower.." [name] feel her heart skip a beat at the old nickname he always call her when they started their relationship, where everything was perfect.

the nickname brought both nostalgia.

"i wanna make it up to you, and not just flowers, chocolates, and some drawings." holding her hands in his, he kisses each and every finger and knuckles, "i want to make it up to you in a real date, without any interpretations. just me and you." his eyes held hope and determination. he doesn't want to mess this up.

[name] feel a smile crept to her lips before it was wiped out and worry was replaced. "but miles, what if—"

"dad can handle it." miles immediately answered, but her expression didn't change, she feels like she would be the reason why someone would get hurt because spiderman didn't show up. "they'll be okay. it will only be once in a while. there are no super villain on the loose for them to need me. dad can handle a few criminals."

the smiled he adored came back, making him mirror it. "okay," she nodded, pulling him into her once again, "i missed you."

"i missed you too, sunflower."

sorry for not posting sooner, writer's block beat me like miguel beating miles (child abuse /jk) 😔

[ivyyisbored22]

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭— 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐅

Note: Check Description and other chapters first to understand the story ^^♡

Chapter 5

Aria

It's been a month since I got married, I didn't properly speak to Chris after that moment in the kitchen that morning, just occasional Good Mornings and Hi's whenever he passed by. For 4 weeks he had been ignoring my presence, the only reason why I'm still alive in this huge ass mansion was because of Deliah's company.

I tried my best within these weeks to try to talk to Chris, but he didn't even bother, he claimed he was busy or arrived home late every night. Pain stung in my chest. I don't know why I still had unwanted hope running in my heart, knowing he'll be himself when he's home and we're only pretending to be people we truly aren't when we're are in front of judging eyes.

I had enough of his bullshit and needed air, I grabbed my handbag and exited his mansion, hoping to find some peace outside of these walls. I called one of my close friends, Leia, she answered after a few rings.

"Hey baby girl" Her voice was warm and cheerful, a stark contrast to my own. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my emotions.

"Hey babe, you free today?" I asked, hoping to see her. She sadly missed my wedding as she was having a book tour in Europe, her debut book was a huge success after finally publishing it last year.

"Sure I am, wanna grab boba?" I chuckled behind the phone, "Absolutely"

"Send your loc, be there in about 15. See ya" She assured before hanging up. I sent her the location to Chris's mansion and waited for her to come. Even though I was all alone in here, I did roam around the enormous gardens and other places of this mansion and even took a swim in the pool, all while Chris wasn't at home.

I got down the small steps and walked to the infinity pool in the back, I spotted Daniel, he turned to me as soon as he saw me standing and raised a gentle hand smiling softly. I waved back at him, returning the smile, turning around to inhale the fresh of the autumn morning.

The sound of a car honk pulled me out of my reverie, I turned to see Leia's car approaching the gate. Relief washed over me as she parked and stepped out, her smile as radiant as ever.

"Aria! Baby girl I missed you tons" she called out, rushing towards me. We embraced tightly, her warmth and familiar scent instantly comforting me.

"Leia, it's so good to see you," I murmured, trying to keep my voice steady.

She pulled back and looked at me, concern etched on her face. "You look like you've been through the wringer. Let's get that boba and you can tell me everything." We headed to her car, and soon we were driving through the city towards our favorite boba tea spot.

The familiar sights of the city and the anticipation of spending time with Leia helped ease some of the tension I'd been carrying. We reached the best boba spot in the city and placed our orders and sat down at a comfy spot, I finally felt like I was out of a prison.

"Alright, so spill the tea, what's up"

I took a deep breath and told her everything meeting Chris for the first time and how he didn't look so intimidating. The night before the wedding, the contract and how he's been avoiding me for the past weeks and that little incident in the kitchen. He told me no one should know about the contract but fuck it. It was driving me insane.

"Wait. So this guy had you SIGN a contract BEFORE you exchanged your vows? What in the God's name is this madness?!" Her eyes kept widening as I kept talking, she was finally updated about everything.

I nodded, feeling a mix of frustration and helplessness. "Yeah. It was all part of the agreement. And, it's only valid for a year" I said, looking down at my boba, unable to meet her eyes.

"And you agreed to this?" She shook her head in disbelief.

I hesitated for a second, then added "I had to. I didn't have a choice. After my last relationship, you know how my parents said they will get me married. And Chris's father somehow has blackmailed him or some bullshit," I caught a breath, trying to keep my voice steady.

"I didn't want this marriage and neither did he. But now I feel like I walked into trap and I'm unable to escape."

She tilted her head, "How did you meet him?" I looked up from the table, remembering when I met his father before I met Chris.

"You know my father works as head accountant for Aurelius and is well known among Mr.Bang's top employees," I told her how the CEO personally met with my parents and and convinced them into arranging this marriage. My parents were thrilled. They saw it as a golden opportunity for me, a way to secure my future.

After breaking up with my ex, a betrayal I never saw coming, I didn't want to wait for "my one" anyway. But this...this wasn't exactly what I envisioned either.

I wanted stability, but not at the cost of my own happiness. I could see the concern etched on her face as she listened to me recount the events leading up to this point.

Leia's hand gently touched mine, her eyes soften with sympathy. I looked at her trying to brush away the tears and thankfully this time I had control over them.

"Baby girl this isn't right. Even if whatever this hell is only for a year, you must speak to him" Her hand squeezed mine, her voice firm yet filled with compassion.

I nodded slowly, grateful for her presence. She was one of the fewest people I trusted and vented to, the first being my mother. I didn't have the heart to burden my mother that my marriage wasn't even a happily ever after. Chris's mansion was an hour drive from my mom's place. With the crazy traffic in the States, there's no way I could go and come back alone and also the fact that the driver only works for him.

Besides I can't leave without informing Chris anyway.

"You deserve clarity, Aria," Leia affirmed, her gaze unwavering. "You deserve to know where you stand and what this marriage really means."

She leaned forward, her eyes locked onto mine. "But more than this. You deserve someone who truly loves you, not someone bound by a contract."

Tears welled up in my eyes, but I blinked them away. "I know, Leia. I just... I don't know what to do. Part of me wants to break free, but another part of me feels like there's something worth fighting for."

Her squeeze around my hand tightened, "Whatever you decide, I'm here for you. Always."

We finished our boba tea in silence, lost in our own thoughts. I felt a renewed sense of determination building within me. As we left the café and Leia drove me back to the mansion, my mind crawled with thoughts on what I had to do.

When we arrived, we shared a tight hug and I watched Leia drive away before heading inside. But when I entered, I wasn't expecting the stoic, cold heir to be home by noon. I thought he'll come home late like usual.

My heart pounded hard in my chest as he was sitting on the couch, his elbows resting on his knees, scowling and scrolling his phone. When I entered the hall, he laid his phone. I looked at him and headed to the stairs, when his rough voice called out my name.

"Where were you?" Irritation crawled up my skin. He didn't give a shit about me before, why does he care now?

"Somewhere with a friend" I said without looking at him, clenching my bag as I heard footsteps behind me.

"Somewhere? Where exactly? Don't you think you should tell me before you wander in the streets with someone?"

I turned to him glaring as he stood so close to me, my frustration bubbling to the surface. "Why does it matter to you, Chris? You've been avoiding me for weeks. You barely acknowledge my existence and presence in this house unless it's absolutely necessary. Now suddenly why do you want to know where I've been?"

His jaw clenched at the tone of my voice. I didn't care if I pissed him off. His expression was unreadable, his eyes were burning fire as he glared back at me, I was sure that stare itself could burn upto a thousand degrees.

"I have every right to know where my wife is."

I scoffed. "Oh, now I'm your wife?" I retorted, unable to hide the bitterness in my voice. "Funny how you remember that only when it's convenient for you."

"Don't speak me to me in that tone" He warned me. I took a step back, my hand clenched the strap of my bag more tightly.

I squared my shoulders, refusing to back down. "Or what, Chris? What are you going to do? Ignore me some more?"

His nostrils flared, his patience clearly wearing thin. "You know what, Aria? This attitude of yours isn't helping."

"Oh, I'm sorry. So now my attitude is the problem?" I shot back, my voice dripping with sarcasm. "Maybe if you actually talked to me instead of treating me like a stranger, we wouldn't be having this conversation."

Chris took a step closer, his voice low and controlled. "I've been trying to give you space, Aria. That's what we both needed."

"Space?" I scoffed again, my frustration reaching its peak. "Is that what you call it? Ignoring me? Avoiding any real conversation? That's not space, Chris. That's avoidance."

"I fucking told you not to have any expectations of me. This is who I am alright? If you find this behaviour annoying, you shouldn't have agreed to this in the first place" His voice was thick, filled with anger as he growled at me, I began shaking, trying to stop myself from falling down.

"I'm not having any expectations of you or of us. But just—" I sighed. Whatever I say wasn't gonna change his mind.

"But what sweetheart?" His head tilted, a mocking smirk playing on his face. I hated when he called me that when he didn't mean it.

"Stop calling me that" I said pointing my index finger at his chest. "And yes I did expect more," I continued, my voice gaining strength despite my shaky resolve.

"I expected us to at least try to make this work. To communicate. It's fine if you don't want to treat me like a wife in these walls but I thought at least we could be friends"

Chris's face hardened at my words, a mixture of frustration flickering in his eyes. He opened his mouth as if to respond, then closed it again, his jaw clenching visibly. The air around us felt heavy with unspoken tensions and unresolved feelings.

"I didn't agree to this marriage expecting a fairy tale," he finally said, his voice quieter now, but no less intense. "I thought we both understood what this was."

"I do understand," I replied, my voice steadier despite the storm of emotions raging inside me. "But understanding doesn't mean I have to accept being treated like I don't matter."

He sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair in a gesture of irritation. I had enough of his bullshit. I turned away from him and walked upstairs to my room. He grabbed my wrist but I twisted it off his grip, running to my room and shutting the door behind me.

Throwing my bag and phone onto my bed, I pulled my hair down from my ponytail and headed to the shower. The lukewarm water cascading down my body felt better. Like a hug.

I stood in the shower for good half an hour before coming out wrapped in my bathrobe, to find Chris SITTING on my bed.

What the fuck

"What are you doing here?" I snapped at him, keeping my voice calm yet mixed with irritation.

"Waiting for my wife to come out of the shower" He looked at me, a sly grin playing across as his eyes roamed my body. Water was still dripping down my hair and droplets sliding down my chest, his eyes were on my cleavage before it met mine again.

Why didn't I lock the god damn door

"It's rude to enter someone's room without permission" I stated firmly, my voice laced with annoyance as I tightened the belt of my bathrobe.

"Didn't need permission since this is my house" He said coolly.

"But it's my room. You assigned this to me, so I want you to respect my privacy"

He scoffed and met my gaze again, he got off the bed and walked to me, closing the distance between us slowly. I stood where I was, feeling exposed under his scrutiny. "Your room or not, I will do whatever I want. You live in my house"

His tone was smooth yet edged with arrogance, each word deliberate and cutting through the air with a sense of entitlement. My hands curled into fists, I knew arguing with him will only escalate the tension between us further.

"You might own this house," I retorted, trying to keep my voice steady despite the unease churning inside me, "but that doesn't mean you can disrespect boundaries."

Chris's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze locking onto mine with an intensity that sent a shiver down my spine. "Boundaries?" he echoed, his voice low and dangerously calm. "You don't get to set the rules here, Aria. You're here because of the agreement, remember?"

His words stung, reminding me once again of the contractual nature of our marriage. It was a bitter pill to swallow, knowing that our relationship was based on anything but love or mutual respect.

"What do you want?" I asked, closing my eyes and turning away from him, having enough of his shit for the day.

"To fuck that little attitude out of you" Chris replied sharply, his voice cutting through the tension in the room like a knife. His words held a cold edge, filled with frustration and impatience.

Don't slap him. Don't slap him.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself before I turned back to face him. "My attitude is a direct result of your behavior, Chris. If you want it to change, maybe you should start treating me with respect."

He scoffed, a bitter laugh escaping his lips. "Respect is earned, Aria. And frankly, you haven't exactly made it easy."

I shook my head, disbelief and anger mingling in my voice. "You think I owe you respect after the way you've treated me? After all the times you've ignored me, dismissed me when I tried to talk to you, or made me feel like I'm nothing?"

Chris's expression hardened, his jaw tightening.

"This marriage was never about love. We both know that. You and I were both pressured by our families and here we are. It's a civil arrangement, and in a civil conversation respect is earned through cooperation."

"Only 335 days more of your bullshit and I'll be out of this hell" I walked away from him to my wardrobe, indicating that he should leave.

He laughed a cold laugh before he left my room saying,

"Can't wait for the day"

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

Thank you for reading!

xx,Ivyy

Next Chapter

[crackinglamb]

AO3 Year End Roundup, 2024

Tagged by @pikapeppa and @theluckywizard. Thank you both! 🥰

Tagging @lilbittymonster, @anneapocalypse, @espressocomfort, @gefionne and anyone who wants to do it who hasn't been tagged yet. Consider this an open invite. Tag me so I can see!

Words posted: 308,473

Additional Words Written: ~145K

Grand total of words: ~453K

Fandoms: 5. I wrote for Doctor Who, Southern Vampire Mysteries/True Blood, Dragon Age, Fallout 4 (and the tiniest bit of 3) and Fallout TV

Works: 17, 16 of them new.

Highest Kudos: Different Animals, at 325. Cooper Howard|The Ghoul/Lucy MacLean (FOTV). Rated E, 9528 words.

Highest Hit Oneshot: Different Animals, at 2565 as of this post.

New Things I Tried: May-June of this year saw me fall down the rabbithole that was Fallout TV’s first season. In quick succession I wrote 7 fics for Ghoulcy before the Muse ran dry.

I also went back to my first published fandom (FO4), but with a twist: Modern Girl In the Commonwealth. And the Days Go By, F!SoSu/Hancock, rated E, 65K words, complete. I actually just finished posting it two weeks ago.

Fic I Spent the Most Time On: Driftwood, my Bullmance series. I finally finished writing The Turning Tide (Iron Bull/OFC (DA), rated E, 42K words, WIP), and started posting it before DAV dropped. It’s currently the only work being updated. But it is totally written, and there will be no gaps in posting it through to completion next year.

Fic I Spent the Least Time On: Well Developed Personality, Cooper Howard|The Ghoul/Lucy MacLean (FOTV), rated E, 1696 words. It’s the shortest thing I wrote (and the filthiest, ‘ware the tags), and I managed it in about a sitting.

Favorite Thing I Wrote: This is always tough for me, because I hop around fandoms so much, and each one brings its own set of joys to the table. So in no particular order, the top three:

Destiny Is Just In the Timing, Female Cadash/Varric Tethras (DA), rated E, 52K words, complete. In the way of procrastination projects, Destiny began its life as something else to work on when I was stuck on T3. Varric is my first DA love, and I will always return to him. I got to thinking about his canon DA2 Carta contacts, and how a Cadash Inq is from the Carta and...boom. Instant ship, just add pining. Half the fic covers DA2 from an outsider POV, the other half is the events of DA:I. Guaranteed happy ending. [side-eyes BW]

Different Animals. Ya know, I didn’t plan to get as deep into Ghoulcy as I did. Then again, I never anticipate how deep I’ll fall into a ship. Before I’d even finished watching the show, I was writing this long oneshot. There is just something about the vibe of it that ticks all my boxes, and it’s probably the thing I’ve reread the most this year of my own work.

And the Days Go By. Modern Character In [Setting] is a favorite trope of mine, as anyone who’s read my DA longfics knows. I took that premise and put it into my favorite comfort game. Voila! Jack Nunn was born. I had so much fun figuring out what parts of the game mechanics I’d keep in the story as plot devices and how much a woman from our world would struggle to cope in the Fallout universe. It started out as crack treated seriously, then I grew to love her so much I kinda forgot that part.

Favorite Thing I Read: Again, tough decision. I’m a multitasker. And that’s true of my reading habits too. So, also in no particular order, the top three:

Kiss Me Moonstruck, by LuckyWizard (@theluckywizard). Female Trevelyan/Male Hawke (DA), rated E, WIP. Sometimes you just need a fantasy romcom. This indisputably fits the bill. It’s a light-hearted and highly entertaining matchmaker AU, and it sizzles with the palpable chemistry between Rose and Garrett. I love every word, and Lucky is a delight I’m happy to call a friend.

A Distinct Lack of Exploding, by gotfanfiction. Cooper Howard|The Ghoul/Lucy MacLean, (FOTV), rated E, WIP (with one chapter left according to the count, but the author has stated that shouldn’t be taken as gospel). This is a romp of pure ridiculous fun. Hot fun. Read the tags and you’ll get an idea of what you’re in for. And the author delivers on every word. I’ve read it at least three times so far in its entirety.

A Thing Called Hunger, by Syrina. Female Rook/Lucanis Dellamorte (DAV), rated E, WIP. In order to keep things spoiler free for Veilguard, I can’t talk about this one too much. Other than to say it’s witty and clever, the spice is excellent and the characters are wonderful. I get excited with every new update.

Something I Finished: The Turning Tide. It took 18 months, but I finished it (shortly after I began posting it, bending my own rule about publishing before completing the principle wording). And even though I said no more epics – being defined as anything over 100K words – guess what? It is. Mirabull in the Inquisition, ho!

Miscellaneous Highlights: I bounced around a lot this year. And a fair amount of my work didn’t get any mentions here. So I’ll compile some of them now.

Not a Bad Life?, Rose Tyler/Ninth Doctor (Doctor Who), rated E, 33K words. Written for Fluff-uary 2024. Among the WIP’s that were written but never posted was the next arc in Rose’s life with the Doctor. Ultimately, I’m glad the series leaves off here, because honestly I lost steam with it, and I don’t know when I’ll get back to it. But considering there are two years between She’s My Plus One and this fic, eh, who knows? Not I. I am but a drifting fan of many things, floating around from ship to ship.

Stardust, Rose Tyler/The Doctor (DW), rated G, 4220 words. Speaking of Doctor Who, this oneshot was written after the 14th Doctor’s stint during the holiday mini-series. I just wanted Rose to come back home and for Fourteen to get a happy ending, okay? And with it, The Spaces Between Our Atoms, rated T, 3174 words. A sort of sequel, written to commemorate the passing of Bernard Cribbins (Wilf).

Set to Repeat, Subject to Change, F!SoSu/Hancock, (FO4), rated E, 76K words, complete. I published (and completed) this fic back in 2018. I always wanted to write a sequel for it, but never did. Burnout’s a bitch, and I don’t have the mental energy to do All That. But I did write an epilogue, six years late. Incidentally, the final chapter was posted on the anniversary of the fic’s first chapter, which ticks the ‘coming full circle’ box for me. It’s the little things, ya know?

Writing Goals for 2025: [noncommittal noises] As of right now, I’m attempting to put together some ideas for continuing Wicked Things. With DAV now here, I have some work ahead of me to make it reconcile with where I was going with WG. But frankly, I’m uninspired. Part of that could be lingering burnout, but part of that is also some...ambivalence over what we got as the next entry to Dragon Age. I haven’t actually played it yet (although anyone who’s read any of my work knows that has zero bearing on me creating something), but I’ve watched some playthroughs and have all the spoilers. Whatever I manage to write for next for Imogen, it will most definitely YEET the canon. More than likely a lot of it, honestly.

And of course, there will be another Fluff-uary. I'm not sure who will get the nod next year for pairing(s). But I'll come up with something, I always do.

Final Thoughts: As much as I’ve talked about burnout and writing less...I managed a lot this year. I was honestly shocked at that wordcount total. And I’m sure I missed some of the WIP’s that got started and never went anywhere in the ‘additional words’ section. I just counted the things that were close to done or had a significant amount written that I could find in my document files. One of them is a full, completed fic. I’m just not ready to carry on with that series and don’t want to leave it on a cliffhanger for however long it would take me to get back to it. Another is nearly complete, but I got stuck on the ending and then moved on to other things and have been considering a rewrite from the ground up. And a third is a oneshot that’s ready for posting but has zero context for it yet. [sigh] But that’s always the way, isn’t it?

I fully expect next year will be a bit slower for me in terms of creativity. Life being what it is, and my circumstances what they are, I won’t have as much time. And I feel like I say that every year, but this time I think it’s going to actually happen. I’m currently in the longest stretch of writing nothing at all that I’ve had since I began writing fanfiction in 2017. And I have very few ideas percolating in the back of my mind. And you know what? I’m okay with that. I keep saying I’m going to take a break and then never do. Maybe I’ll actually do it this time.

If you’ve read this far, cheers. See you on the flipside. 💕

[babydollslibrary]

BACK TO DECEMBER — MARK ESTAPA

mark estapa x fem!reader

published: June 11th, 2023

summary: in which y/n sees Mark for the first time since their breakup last december and struggles being around him while still being hopelessly in love.

warnings: just lots of angst. no happy ending.

notes: so many “specific lyrics” that i couldn’t even write them all, so this one is pretty much just the song as a whole.

not my gif

my heart aches, hand shaking as i pull open the door of the diner. stepping into the mostly empty restaurant, my eyes sweep the expanse of the eatery, in search of the boy i’m meeting. but showing up twenty minutes early has assured me that’s he’s yet to show.

putting my free time to use, i make my way to the restroom, pushing the door open and attempting a deep inhale as i stop in front of the mirror.

my eyes bore into the reflection in front of me, criticizing myself. my purple sundress feels too tight with my anxiety squeezing my diaphragm, making it hard for me to suck in a full breath.

i stare straight ahead, looking into my own eyes as i shake my arms out, trying to rid myself of any awkward feelings or stiffness.

“you can do this.” my whisper echoes off the tiled walls of the diner bathroom as a toilet flushes and a girl steps out of a stall.

i step out of her way as she walks over to a sink, washing her hands. she looks towards me as i attempt another deep breath.

“i don’t know what your doing, but i agree; you can do this.” she tells me, a small smile on her lips as she dries her hands with paper towel.

“oh- thank you.” i send a weak smile in return and she winks as she steps out of the bathroom and back into the seating area.

i follow her lead, fully planning on finding a table, but within two steps, my eyes land on the head of blond hair that i had been searching for when i first arrived.

he sits in a booth at the side of the diner, his back towards me, and i’m immediately transported back to that fateful night one year ago.

**DECEMBER 29TH. 1 YEAR AGO**

“Mark.” my voice cuts through the white noise of the radio and my boyfriend turns it off, silence falling over the car.

he turns his head to look at me, a grin on his lips, before turning back to look at the road.

“what’s up, babygirl?” my heart clenches at the pet name and my eyes drop to the red roses in my lap, my fingers pick lightly at the petals; not tearing them off, but fluffing them to make the flowers seem fuller.

“i-” my voice shakes and tears sting at my eyes as i gather my courage. “i think we should break up.”

Mark’s hand drops mine on the center console, our fingers unlacing as he puts the car into park as we pull up in front of my house.

“what?” he’s hurt, i can hear it in his tone, and it makes this all so much harder. i didn’t want to hurt him. “what are you talking about? is it the date? i thought you were having fun, but you could’ve told me if you didn’t wanna go bowling.”

“it’s not the bowling, Mark.” i throw my head back, staring up at the roof of the car to try and delay my tears.

“then what’s wrong? because i thought we were doing great!” his words are urgent, defensive. “we just started saying ‘i love you’ like two months ago, y/n. what could’ve changed in these past couple months?”

“i know! i just-” i’m cut off by Mark.

“at least look at me if you’re gonna break up with me.” i avert my gaze, finally looking towards him, but i regret it instantly. his eyes are red, i’m not the only one holding back tears.

“i just- i took my gap year, but i started school this semester and my sister’s gotten in my head that, ya know, college is about freedom and not being tied down. doing new things and figuring out who you are. and maybe she’s right.”

“so i’m tying you down?” his face contorts in offense as he shakes his head in disbelief. “i’m holding you back from feeling free?”

“no! i- that’s not what i meant!” i shake my head, letting out a sigh of frustration. i can’t seem to say the right words. “i’m just saying that i think i need to try being single in college, ya know? you got a whole year of that. you were single all of your freshman year. but this is my time to try that.”

i’ve said the wrong thing. i know it because i can see the walls building up behind his eyes. his face turns blank, stony as he just nods, turning to look back out the front windshield.

“right.” the one word is harsher than i ever though it could possibly be. “i think you should just go, y/n.”

“Mark, i wanna talk about this.” i plead as i unbuckle my seatbelt, turning fully in my seat to face him.

“i think we’ve talked enough. you wanna break up. it’s whatever, now i want you to get out of my car.” he tells me as he presses the unlock button, motioning his head towards my door.

i nod, opening the car door and stepping out into the cold, winter, Michigan air. i set the roses down on my seat, not wanting a reminder of this night, of this fight.

“goodbye.” i tell him, an icy tear rolling down my cheek as i shut the passenger door and step back. i walk up to my porch, listening to Mark’s engine start back up, gravel crunching as he peels out of my driveway.

i can’t help but turn and watch him leave, his car disappearing down the street.

**PRESENT DAY**

i steel myself, shaking my head to get rid of the awful memory before i walk over, stopping in front of the table.

Mark is sitting on his phone, typing out a text, but as he looks up at me, he locks it, placing it screen down on the table.

“hey.” he exhales, a small smile rests on his lips, confusing me but also relaxing me.

he doesn’t seem to be mad anymore.

“hi, Mark.” i smile back, already feeling so much more comfortable in his presence.

“uh, do you wanna sit?” he asks me, chuckling. i let a small huff of laughter out at my stupidity as i nod, taking a seat across from him.

“i’m so glad you made time to see me.” i confess, anxiously running my hands down the lap of my dress to smooth out any wrinkles.

“yeah, me too. i have to admit, i wasn’t sure about it at first. Ethan had to talk me into saying yes, but, now that i’m here, i’m glad i did.” he tells me, and any leftover anxious feelings disappear at his admission. we’re on the same page, happy to see each other.

a waitress comes to take our orders and just like he did all that time ago, Mark orders for me.

“i’ll have a BLT with extra bacon, and french fries with a coke. and she’ll have the strawberries and cream pancakes with turkey bacon on the side and a hot chocolate with extra whipped cream.” the waitress nods and gathers our menus before leaving to place our order.

“you remembered my order.” i laugh and he looks at me with the expression of a deer in headlights.

“oh, shit, i’m sorry. i hope that’s still you’re order. i guess it was subconscious, to order for you.” i lay a hand on his arm in reassurance.

“it’s okay. yeah, that’s still my order.” i tell him and he sighs in relief and nods.

“great.” i take my hand back and play with my fingers.

“so, how’s life?” i ask him. “tell me, how’s your family? i haven’t seen them in a while.”

“life’s good!” he smiles, nodding with a faraway look. “life’s really good. i’ve been good, but busy. we made it to the frozen four again last season. we didn’t win but, we made it, and that’s all that matters. and my family’s good! John and my parents are great.”

my smile falters at his answer. i didn’t want him to be miserable, of course not. but, i also didn’t expect him to be so happy without me in his life.

“that’s great. i’m really glad.” it’s the truth, of course i’m glad that he’s been good.

“what about you? how’s work? are you still running the media for your school’s baseball team?” the small talk continues.

“i’ve been okay. yeah, i’m still doing that. it’s been pretty good. stable, ya know?”

he nods in understanding and it’s quiet for a brief moment as we look out the diner window next to us. snow flurries down outside, thick clouds hanging in the sky.

“it’s really coming down hard out there. i’m glad we got in here before the storm started.” he chats.

“yeah, although the roads are definitely gonna be icy.” he nods at my words and i can tell by the meaningless small talk that his guard is up. i can’t blame him, the last time we saw each other was when i broke up with him, breaking both of our hearts in one night.

the conversation is tabled when our food arrives and we fall into silence as we eat, and out of a force of habit, i stick half of my turkey bacon on his plate.

halfway through our meal, it seems that Mark can no longer hold in his confusion.

“why did you ask me here?” i set my fork down at his question, preparing myself to bare my heart.

“i wanted to tell you i’m sorry for that night.” i admit. i play with my mug of hot cocoa out of nerves.

“why now?” he asks. “why a year later?”

“i haven’t been sleeping lately.” i tell him. “i’ve just been laying in bed playing back that night in my head. i have so many regrets, and my biggest one is not staying in the car with you.”

he draws in a deep breath, glancing at his phone before looking back up at me.

“ya know, i thought we could get past it? i thought it was just a bump in our relationship and you would realize that you made a mistake and everything would be okay.

“and then my birthday passed, and you never called. you didn’t even text. and that’s when i knew that you were serious. i realized that we were really broken up.”

his words bring tears to my eyes.

“i’m sorry.” my voice shakes. “i’m so sorry, Mark.”

“it’s okay, y/n.” he shakes his head. “i get it. you wanted a taste of the college freedom.”

i shake my head, a frown making itself apparent on my lips.

“it turns out freedom is nothing but missing you.” i confess. “i’ve been thinking about last summer a lot lately. when we would sneak away from our friends and go on those late night drives. i realized i liked you as more than a friend for the first time when i was watching you laugh on one of those drives.

“you were so carefree. you were the opposite of me. no worries, no stress. just living in the moment. and then we started dating and everything in the world felt… right. i felt safe with you. i felt at home. and then we both left for school and we were so far apart and i was so worried that you wouldn’t want me anymore. but then you were you. you called me every night and you sent me flowers and even from miles away, you made sure i wasn’t working myself too hard. and i fell in love with you that fall.”

i look down at my half full plate as he chews on his lip.

“but then i came home from winter break. and fear crept into my mind. my sister started telling me that you probably hated being tied down when you have so many girls that want you. she said i should be single in order to have the full college experience. she said i shouldn’t be pining over a guy that probably wished he didn’t have to call me after all of his games. that you probably hated having a girlfriend that you couldn’t even really be with. so i listened to her. i thought that she was older and wiser so she was probably right.”

i look back up at him as tears roll down my face. i held my tears in until i was out of his car last december, making this only the second time he’s ever actually seen me cry and his expression is filled with the exact same worry as it was the first time.

**SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2022**

i sit on Mark’s bed, watching as he folds clothes to put in his suitcase.

he’s leaving.

we both are.

i knew this day would come. that summer would end and we’d have to leave each other.

i knew it when we started this relationship three months ago. i just didn’t think it would hurt this bad.

my breath hitches as i watch him fold up my favorite shirt of his, sticking it in his suitcase, and i realize that for the next 3 months, i won’t see him wear it again. i won’t see him again.

“actually, babe, do you think i could keep that one?” i ask him, pulling the shirt out of the travel bag that rests beside me.

“what?” he laughs and i almost feel stupid for asking. “you wanna keep my shirt?”

“ya know what? yeah, it’s- it’s stupid. nevermind.” i place the shirt back in the suitcase, scrunching my nose up and subtly pinching my eyes closed in attempt to hold back my tears.

i look the opposite direction, blinking a few times to try to get rid of the salt water stinging my eyes.

“hey.” his voice is gentle, soft, as he crouches down to his knees in front of me. his hands rest gently on my thighs. “look at me, please.”

i gather my courage, averting my gaze to look into his eyes. his face is filled with worry, his eyebrows raised in concern. he crawls onto the bed, pulling me into his side as the tears escape my eyes.

“what’s wrong? hmm?” he caresses my cheek, tilting my head to look up at him.

“i’m gonna miss you.” i tell him. i bite my lip, holding back a sob.

“i’m gonna miss you more, sweet girl.” he whispers, planting a light kiss on the tip of my nose. “but these next few months are gonna fly by, and then we’ll see each other over winter break. and then spring break. and then finally, it’ll be summer again. and before you know it, you’ll be getting sick of me again.”

he brushes a tear away with his thumb.

“you’re gonna be telling me ‘gosh Mark, give me some space!’” he raises his pitch, mocking my voice and making me let out a watery giggle amongst my tears.

“i will not!” i smack his chest lightly.

“okay, yeah, maybe not. you’ll actually be all over me, and i’ll eat up every second of it.” he jokes.

“holding you.” he squeezes me tighter, pulling me into his lap.

“kissing you.” he cups my face, pulling my lips to his and laying a sweet kiss against them.

“touching you.” his hands slide down my body to rest on my hips.

“keep the shirt, baby.” he tells me before raising his eyebrows. “but i expect to see you wearing it on facetime. think you can do that?”

i giggle nodding my head. “yeah, i can do that.”

“good.” he reaches over, grabbing the shirt out of the suitcase. he hands it to me and i hug it to my chest. “you feeling better now, pretty girl?”

i nod, leaning forward to lay my head on his chest, and his arms snake around me, holding me to him.

“good. cause that was the first time i’ve seen you cry and i hated every second of it.”

**PRESENT DAY**

“y/n, your sister was wrong.” he tells me. his hand moves to lay atop of mine, rubbing it with his thumb to provide a sense of comfort for me as i wipe away my tears.

“i didn’t care that other girls wanted me, all i wanted was you. i loved calling you after games. i loved hearing you share in my excitement when we won, or giving me pep talks when we lost.

“did i love that i couldn’t be with you? no. but that didn’t mean i wanted to break up. i loved you.”

loved.

past tense.

my heart aches as i slide my hand out from under his, my stomach churning in discomfort.

his phone buzzes on the table and he glances at it once again before looking back at me.

“maybe this is wishful thinking; but if we loved again, i swear i’d love you right this time.” i sigh. “i just wanted you to know that. i miss you. i’m so happy you’re doing great, but i’m not. i miss your sweet smile. i miss how you looked at me like i was the only girl in the world. i miss loving you. i miss our late night talks when we should’ve been studying. i miss hearing about your games. i even miss hearing Ethan’s obnoxious teasing when we were talking way later than we should’ve been. i miss you, even as just a friend, like before we were dating. and i know it’s probably much too late, but i go back to December all the time and i just needed you to know that i’m so sorry for that night. and i’d go back in time and change it if i could, but i can’t.”

he sighs, licking his lips and looking down at his hands.

“y/n-” i cut him off.

“you don’t have to say anything, Mark. i just wanted you to know.” he nods but speaks anyways.

“i’m in a good place, y/n. i’m happy. i appreciate your apology, but it’s okay. it was probably for the best, anyways.” he shrugs.

for the best.

right.

“oh- okay.” tears escape my eyes, rolling down my cheeks again.

“i’m sorry that you’re not happy. i really am. and if there was anything else i could do to change that, i would. it hurts me to know that you’re hurting because you still hold a special place in my heart. you were my best friend for so long, and you were my first love.”

i nod in understanding, steeling myself and preparing for the meeting to end.

his phone buzzes once more and this time he picks it up. i watch his face as he looks at the notification, and my heart drops at his expression.

the way his eyes light up. the way the corners of his lips curl up just slightly, like he’s trying not to smile. the way the corners of his eyes crinkle.

i know that look.

it’s the same way that his friends said he looked at his phone when my contact would pop up.

he’s in love.

with someone who’s not me.

“who is she?” i can’t help but ask. i keep my tone light. not accusing, but genuinely curious.

he quickly puts his phone down, looking back at me with wide eyes.

“what?” he asks, feigning obliviousness.

“who is she? the girl on your phone.” i send him a watery smile, silently assuring him that it’s okay.

“her name is Anna.” he admits, his shoulders slumping in ease. “she’s my… girlfriend. we started dating in May, right before the summer. she works media for the team.”

i nod along as he speaks, a soft teary smile masking the fact that it feels like my heart is being ripped to shreds.

“i hope she makes you happy.” i tell him, and i mean it. i really want him happy. regardless of who’s causing it.

“she does.” he’s gentle with his words, obviously not wanting to hurt me. but he isn’t the one who hurt me, i did.

“did she come home with you?” i ask him, fearing that i already know the answer.

“yeah.” he tells me, biting his lip.

“go to her.” i whisper, mustering one more small smile.

“y/n, i-” he starts but i shake my head.

“go. it’s okay.” i assure him. “you heard what i wanted you to hear. now, go home to your girlfriend and your family. enjoy your break.”

he nods, fishing out his wallet and setting some cash on the table.

“it was really nice seeing you, y/n. maybe i’ll see you around.” he tells me, standing up and putting his coat back on before he braves the snowy night.

“yeah, maybe.” i smile up at him and he gives me one in return before walking away.

i look out the window beside the table as he walks out to his car. the same car that i broke both our hearts in. and i watch as he drives out of the parking lot. it reminds me eerily of that night last December.

i avert my gaze to the table top, spotting the cash he left. enough to cover both our meals. and i can’t help but cry.

i did this to myself. i let my fears get the best of me, and now he’s happy without me. and i’ll have to sit on the sidelines and watch as he spends his life with someone else. someone who can love him better than i could.

[die-schwanenkoenigin]

AO3 Wrapped 2024

I was tagged by @lilolilyr to post my AO3 stats for 2024. Thank you!! <3

Please note that all titles/words highlighted in colors are clickable!

Works published: 19 total, 13 of which were for Hacks, and six of which were for The Devil Wears Prada.

Word count: 96,568. Shame I didn't reach 100k I guess (I was SO close, too), but oh well.

Kudos: 3,427 as of Jan 6, 2025

Hits: 67,797

Bookmarks: 445

Subsciptions: 401

Most popular by kudos: Partners, at 601. Oh, hey, it's reached 600 kudos since I last checked!!! The first fic of mine to go over that threshold :')

Most hits: the joys of spring, at a whopping 18,445! The hit count is so high that it's even closing in on my second most popular Camren fic (19,463 hits). Still, it'll be a long way to go to get to the top spot, where my most popular Camren fic currently sits at 27,821 hits. At the same time, it's been less than a year for this one, and seven for the others, soooo... who knows what'll happen!

Longest: Once again, the answer is the joys of spring! the joys of spring has exactly 30,000 words in 30 chapters. (My greatest accomplishment in 2024 tbh lol.)

Shortest: Well, technically speaking, it's Exclusive at 50 words. It's not a fic, though. It's a manip, and the article I wrote to go along with it is just... an afterthought. Which is why I'm going to go with That's not very in love with me of you at 500 words.

Most comments: the joys of spring once again, which got 145 comment threads.

Favorite comment: This one from @prozac-shaped-urn, hands down.

Wow!! I never thought I'd see the day where someone would give me a run for my money in the smut department, but you absolutely have!!! I'm highly impressed! The em dashes really add a heightened level of anticipation to the scene, and I like the hyperfocus on internal senses. The imagery of galaxies behind Ava's eyes speaks to the full-body domino effect of pleasure. It's very well executed. I'm over here taking deep breaths and consciously unclenching my jaw. Ya got me hot and bothered, ngl. Ava swallows. Blood rushes to her head, and she knows without a doubt that her face is red. She’s hot, burning hot, and she can’t pay attention long enough to hear the rest of what Deborah is saying. Not shaming, then. Accusing? Is Deborah accusing her of— Ava stares ahead and licks her lips. It’s all she can do to try not to be too obvious about the absolute state of her underwear. She’s so fucking—why is this not turning her off? Why is being scolded by Deborah doing it for her? “Come.” “Huh?” The way I also had the 'Huh?' reaction to reading 'Come' skldjfalkdjsf It spreads from her core to her stomach, to her thighs. And then to her heart, and to her arms, to her legs and head and her everything. / Ava swears something bursts behind her eyes. It might be a firework. It might be a meteor. It might be an entire fucking galaxy. / The galaxy behind her eyes explodes into a wall of white while her body pulses, her stomach contracting along with those pulses. This focus on internal senses is what I wish everyone would include in their smut. But writing erotica is a skill! It takes time to learn how to meld senses together to create an immersive reading experience, and I think you've done that well. Consider me a fan! <3

I didn't reply to it for days on end when I got it, I just wanted to read it over and over again. And I'm still not over it. Like. I'm deserving of this much praise????? Me???? Ahhsbjhdsvjcjdhb!!!!!

Fics that made me cry: The one fic that had any angst in it, Shattered Remains. Writing it felt really good. I loved it. But it did also make me very emotional.

Fics that made me smile: I don't really remember anything but the one fic that literally cracked me up every single time I attempted to read or edit it. Keepin' You Hangin' On The Telephone. My fiancée and I (jokingly, at first) tried coming up with absolutely ridiculous euphemisms for the vulva and vagina and after telling @wilfriede about it, they made me keep every single one of them. Without tagging the fic as crack, or warning people about it. And, honestly? It was kind of a blast. People liked it despite the horrendous euphemisms, and we three got a huge kick out of it and laughed about it for ages lol.

Gifts: Five! That's all the gifts I've ever received! :))) I got two Hacks fics from @lilolilyr, and three podfics from @wilfriede! Two of those were my own works, which made the gifts even more exciting! Like. Their Podfic of Bitte bitte mich is literally perfect. It's exactly how I imagined it and how I would have read it myself. (And you should totally listen to it.)

Collaborations: One! My first collaboration ever, in fact! Dare Me to Tell You the Truth was written by me, recorded by @wilfriede and me, and edited by @wilfriede for Pod Together 2024! As well as my first collab, this was also my first ever podfic. For either of those, I couldn't have asked for a better person to work with, honestly. @wilfriede -- thank you for your enthusiasm, your excitement, and your patience! You're awesome! (As are all of your podfics!)

Events: As mentioned above, Pod Together 2024. My first (and only) event :)

Word count read: I didn't read much, and I also don't keep track of my read fics. Probably somewhere between 150k and 250k, if that.

Bookmarks: I've added eight this year, making it a grand total of 27.

Once again, thank you very much to @lilolilyr for tagging me :)

I'm going to go ahead now and tag @prozac-shaped-urn, @wilfriede, @nic-writes-sometimes and @nachdenklich-tj. I can't think of anyone else who's a writer!!!!! If you see this and want to post your stats, though, go right ahead!! <3

[lola-andheruniverse]

Fix It Wednesday - Caryl Fanfiction Rec

Dear fellow carylers, today's fix it is another beautiful take of Carol telling Daryl about the Groove and accepting that he loves her no matter what.

Burn, written by @sira01, is posted on 9Lives and AO3. Summary: At the kingdom Carol finally opens up to Daryl, allowing herself to feel the pain buried for way too long. Rating: E Word count: 7.167 Published: July 30, 2016 (one-shot) This a raw, honest and beautiful story. Carol's suffering cuts deep, but, oh, Daryl's love shines through. I particularly love this piece of dialogue: “I need ya. I… love ya.”

He is looking into the distance, retreating into himself while he keeps holding on. Her heart breaks a little for him, knows he fears her rejection. Yet, he's still here. He’s facing the music and a measure of pride surges through her. He’s come so far and she wishes he could see what she sees.

“You shouldn’t, Daryl.”

She speaks softly and his eyes find hers and there’s anger and desperation.

“It’s not up to ya if I love ya or not.”

It sounds and feels real, doesn't it? I can see a caryl scene just like this playing on my screen. I don't know if there's a bigger compliment to a fanfiction author than this one. Truly amazing story. Please, read and review, dear fellow carylers. It deserves the love.

[redflagshipwriter]

Hot Ghouls in your Area ch 9 PREVIEW

In which Jason makes not a single good judgement call.

“Good morning!”

Jason winced and moved the phone a little further from his face. “Is this Doctor Fenton?”

“It's one of them! What can I do ya for?” Jack Fenton boomed, just as bombastic as his newsletter made him seem. Jason knew, deep in his heart, that Jack Fenton was indeed the one who had selected green neon bold for his headings and borders.

Angels wept. Jason scrubbed his palm over his eye. This man had no poetry in his soul. “I, uh, had some questions about a ghost. I've read some of your articles and your most recent published paper on the topic.”

“We love ghosts!” Fenton bellowed. “Ask away!”

“Do you know a ghost called Phantom?” Jason tried.

“...Sure do,” Jack Fenton said. “Whatcha need?”

Jason cleared his throat. “It's somewhat complicated,” he said evasively, because he didn't need these people to know he was the Red Hood. Fuck. He should have either gotten his helmet stored away or not given his real name. Phantom knew his face and that his name was Jason. Any information that got around via Phantom might tie his face to his alter ego. If Phantom said he got married to Jason, the Red Hood, that could lead to the end of the Bat family vigilantism.

“...He cause you trouble, sport?”

Jason let out a slight laugh. “You could say that, though it wasn't really his fault,” he admitted. He cast a paranoid eye out the window to be sure no siblings were creeping on him. “No, it's really more that…” Fuck, he should have planned this better. “Is there any information you can give me about how a human could contact him?”

Not that Jason didn't have a phone number for the guy. But it made him very uncomfortable to have any basic knowledge or way to track Phantom down if he decided to leave Jason to whatever was going on.

“I could probably do that,” Jack Fenton said slowly, now sounding like an entirely different human being. “Say, you wouldn't be Jeremy, would you?”

Jason blinked. “...How did you know?” He went with. Phantom had contact with a human guy named Jeremy? That might be his in.

“Oh, well then, you've definitely got to come over,” Dr. Fenton wheedled. It somehow came across as shifty. “You'll be wanting a whole primer on how the Ghost Zone works, won't ya?”

“That would be immensely helpful,” Jason agreed. “But I'd hate to take up your valuable time.”

“Nonsense!” Fenton bellowed. Jason nearly lost his grip on his phone in surprise. “Come over Jeremy, I'm dying to meetcha!”

So, there was a plan. Jason packed for a day trip and dialed up his travel agent.

“Fuck off,” said Tim. “I'm busy. Christ.”

“I need an airplane ticket and a rental bike,” Jason continued. He tossed his mostly full bag on the sofa and went digging for the socks he knew he had washed the other night. “I'm going to go see some nerds about my impromptu adventure the other day.”

Tim groaned. That was the first Jason had given any hint at all about what had happened to him when he'd been ‘sacrificed.’ “What nerds?” He asked wearily.

Jason grinned into his sock drawer. Gottem. “Why, do you all know each other?” He asked blithely.

[impala-dreamer]

Stay With Me

A Supernatural Story

~Dean is into his second bottle of whiskey, desperate to drive his problems away. But he knows deep down, the booze isn't what he truly needs...~

Dean Winchester x F!Reader

1,390 Words

Warnings: Bittersweet Angst

Impala-Dreamer’s Masterlist  ~  Patreon  ~ Published Works

In one fluid motion, he cracked the seal on the new bottle of whiskey and plopped back down into his chair. The old seat groaned and the wheels rolled back a bit, sliding with the force of his weight over the polished floor.

Dean poured himself another healthy shot and stared down into the glass, enjoying how the light from the glowing table beneath set the crystal aflame. His lips turned in a half smile and he sighed.

“If you hold it up to the light at the right angle, you can see a rainbow.”

Y/N’s voice hit his ear and he lifted the glass to his lips, smiling even wider as she came into view.

Dressed in his old green flannel and seemingly nothing else, she leaned against the archway, arms and bare ankles crossed. He looked up and licked a drop of drink from his lips, savoring the taste and the way she looked. Her hair was a beautiful mess, the day’s makeup smudged around her eyes like she had meant it to look that way. Her mouth still held a faint stain from her faded lipstick and she pouted as he stared, driving his mind towards unholy thoughts.

“Rough day?” she asked, pushing off the tiles to walk slowly towards him.

“You should know,” he sighed around the rim of the tumbler. “You were with me.”

Y/N nodded and pulled out the chair across from him. “True.”

He eyed her over the glass, loving the way she sat down so delicately only to slump against the back of the chair. She leaned back and kicked her feet up onto the map, toes casting a shadow over Brazil.

“But really, it wasn’t that bad,” she teased. “Not bad enough for a second bottle of bourbon, anyway.”

“It’s whiskey,” he corrected.

She shrugged. “Same thing.”

Dean shook his head and set the glass down, fingers lingering on the sharp edges of the design. “Not true. Bourbon is always whiskey, but whiskey ain’t always bourbon. This is just straight up, get ya drunk, forget your life for a few hours whiskey.”

She knocked her feet off the table and turned to face him head on. “And why would you want to forget your life, Mr. Winchester? What’s so horrible lately that you’d want it to go away?”

He laughed sadly, bowing his head, avoiding her eyes. “Oh, you know me. Just being overdramatic.”

Y/N leaned forward and set her clasped hands in front of her. The ring he’d given her glinted in the warm golden light from below and Dean’s gaze was locked on the antique silver and brilliant red stone.

He remembered when they saw it in that little shop outside Paramus. The old hippie behind the counter told them that carnelian was special, used for protection and to ward off evil spirits. Y/N had laughed so brilliantly when she heard that, rolling her eyes at the thought of a cheap little ring keeping the demons away. Her smile had been so beautiful that Dean doubled back later that day and purchased the ring for her.

She never took it off.

“Dean Winchester, you are never overdramatic,” she asserted. “Medium dramatic, sure. A little crazy sometimes? We all are. But never overdramatic. Under dramatic if anything.”

She winked and Dean’s shoulders relaxed, his heart melting for her like it did every time she was close by. He was quiet for a long moment, just studying her face. Memorizing the way the lights and shadows played on her cheeks, the unique line of her nose, the fan of lashes curved over her pretty eyes. She was engraved in his mind, her face always hiding just behind his closed eyes.

“Under dramatic, huh?” He took a sip and let the whiskey burn his tongue a bit before swallowing. His mouth was mostly numb by now, but the little bit at the roof of his mouth still felt and that feeling needed to be punished.

“You know I’m right,” she grinned and sat back. “I always am.”

Dean chuckled and drained the glass. “Sure are.”

It was an old joke between them. She was always right no matter the situation, no matter the topic being discussed. The unwritten rule was that even when wrong, Y/N was always right. She also seemed to win every single competition and argument. A smile could get her out of trouble, a pout would break him enough to roll over and let her win. Every single time.

“You’re damned right, Winchester. I’m always right.” She dipped her chin and stared at him, gorgeous eyes peeling back the mask he so often hid behind. “So, spill. What’s wrong?”

Dean licked his lips and tried to look away. “I’m fine.”

She clicked her tongue. “Bull. What’s going on?”

Again, he tried to tear his eyes away, but he was locked in her gaze, trapped by her voice. “Nothing.”

With a huff, she stood up and kicked the chair away with her right foot. It coasted across the floor until it hit the wall and spun around on itself.

Slowly, she walked around the table and perched on the edge next to him. He closed his eyes for a second, breathing in the sweet smell of her. Faint coconut and something sugary filled his senses and Dean leaned back with a squeak of antique coils.

Y/N reached for his glass and Dean watched as she lifted it to her lips, held her breath, took a long sip. She shivered as it burned down her throat and coughed gently.

“This is terrible,” she laughed, setting the tumblr back down.

He nodded. “It’s not great.”

“So, what’s got you trying to kill your liver with the worst fucking whiskey I’ve ever tasted?”

She wiggled a bit to get more comfortable, spreading her knees just enough to touch his leg with her toes. He melted into the touch and fought back a fresh wave of tears.

He knew she wouldn’t let it go until he confessed, knew she’d keep on teasing and prodding until he gave her what she wanted. But he couldn’t say it aloud, couldn’t let the words leave his head and fly out into the world.

If he did, she would leave.

He needed her there, just for a little while longer.

Needed to smell her coconut lotion, feel her toes on his thigh, see her sweet smile. He needed to hear her say his name in that sweet, secret tone she only used with him.

A single tear slipped through his defenses, sliding carelessly down his cheek.

Y/N gasped under her breath and reached for it, wiping the wet away with the soft pad of her thumb. “Oh, baby… it’s ok.”

Before she could pull away, Dean grabbed her wrist. He wrapped his fingers tight around her arm and held her there, letting her heat fill his mind, soothe the pain.

“It’s not OK, Y/N/N,” he whispered. He closed his eyes and took a breath, one last drink of her air, her being. “I- I don’t want you to go.”

She leaned forward, dropped a kiss to the top of his head. “I have to, Dean. You know that.”

Drunken tears flowed freely; his throat closed tight. “Please,” he begged, close to choking on his grief. “Stay with me. Just a little bit longer…”

Y/N sighed and slid down off of the table, her hand still locked in his. “I’m sorry, baby. I have to go.” She chewed her lip and smiled softly. “But I’ll always be with you. I promise.”

Green eyes rose to her face. She was haloed in something brighter than the Bunker’s lights, something sacred, some glow cast down from Heaven.

“Please… Stay with me.”

Her image began to fade but her smile never did.

Dean closed his eyes, kissed her hand, whispered her name into the empty room.

She was gone again, drawn back into his memory, a ghost only in his whiskey addled mind.

He knew she wasn’t really there when she appeared- he’d set the pyre ablaze himself. But still, whenever he met the bottom of a bottle, he’d dream her up and feel her spirit around him. Nights like these he wondered if maybe, if somehow… she had stayed with him.

2024 Forever Tags (Always Open! Send an Ask!) @alwaystiredandconfused @babysimpala @beardburnsupersoldiers @chenshemesh1 @cosicas-cuquis @deans-baby-momma @deanwinchesterswitch @feelmyroarrrr @foxyjwls007 @hobby27 @impalaspixie @jackles010378 @kazsrm67 @k-slla @leigh70 @lyarr24 @nancymcl @peachy-vans @pizzagirlxnsfwx @rachiem4-blog @sexyvixen7 @suckitands33 @the-wounded-healer05   

[toribookworm22]

Hello, darlings. ♥️

How about a long overdue reintroduction?

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

Personal Bio

My name is Tori! <2

I'm a queer adult writer with a penchant for referring to everyone with terms of endearment. Aro & she/they. 💚

I've been on Tumblr for three years now. This is the rock I've decided to live under. It's my safe part of the swamp.

I'm an avid reader and music lover always looking for recs for both. Literally. Always.

Fandoms I'm attached to currently are: Arcane, Wicked, Batfam, The Owl House, Bluey, & PJO.

Writing Bio

I've been writing since I was a little kid.

I have three novels published (!) with a poetry book on the way.

Mediums I bounce between include: books, songs, poetry, short stories, musicals, plays, screenplays, and the odd outlier.

I've written in a wide scope of genres, but sci-fi and fantasy have my whole heart.

And yeah. That's about it. I'm always on the lookout for new lovelies and new things to read. Please always feel free to message me or send me asks.

For Projects, Writeblr Lists, & Tags look below.

All my love,

~ toribookworm ♥️

Animatronic Saga:

My YA Ensemble Cast Sci-Fi Series! 3/5 books are out now, with the fourth just waiting for me to finally get around to edit it. I've been working on this series for almost a decade now, so these characters are so very important to me.

Shut Down - Book 1 of The Animatronic Saga

Reprogrammed - Book 2 of The Animatronic Saga

Malfunctioned - Book 3 of The Animatronic Saga

Main tags: #animatronic saga #shut down #reprogrammed #malfunctioned

Queer Superhero Story:

Yeah, maybe one day this will actually have a title. This is my baby project brought back to life from the 6th grade. Featuring all queer, all tortured, all doomed by the plot characters. (And a brand new attempt at worldbuilding.) Main tags: #queer superhero story #orchid #nia #roldan

Some current projects put on the back burners. Main Tags: #stormwatcher #prinz charming #four kinds of falling #4kof #secondary series #shades of green

Don't Worry!

They're Not Dead!:

My poetry collection will take over as the release date approaches.

Main Tags: (will be) #you do not have to apologize for your existence #ydnhtafye #my poetry

Writeblr Lists:

And last but not least...

I send out lots of asks; two a week when I can manage. I also like to send out the odd friendly inquiry. Take all the time you need to answer or don't answer at all! But I never want to overwhelm anyone, so I try to keep updated lists. If you'd like to be added to my biweekly asks list-- or for anything at all-- just message me!

On a separate but related note, while I always appreciate asks, I will not answer asks that urge "pass it along for" or "send to or." I sometimes have bad rumination. My brain doesn't like it. No worries if one is sent my way, but it ends here.

Tags!

I go... a little tag crazy. They're mostly ridiculous but scratch my brain right or something, but if you wanted a little cheat sheet for the blog, here you go! (Plus, my frequent posts, of course. 🤭)

Writing Tags:

#writeblr #writers of tumblr #writing struggles #writing motivation #writing characters #writing relationships #writing humor #writing inspiration #poetry #writing advice #writing prompt #writing dialogue #writing tag game

Other tags:

#tag game #chronic playlister #not mine but I wish it was #artist deep dive #queer #rainbow #aro #ace #batfam #arcane #wicked movie #bluey #the owl house #pjo #dick grayson #positivity #human experience #this was just funny #self care #mental health

If you read this mess, go take a nap or get a cup of hot chocolate or something. Whew. You earned it.

♡ Love you always. 🫶

[tumblingdowntheway2019]

Master List Here!!

"What Goes Around Comes Around."

I am so so sorry. I truly thought I had uploaded this piece but it was a draft. Then found the finished version was corrupted so had to work off my last saved draft. Haven't a Pokémon fic properly before for Goh and Chloe. So consider this my first published fic!! (Turns out I had really rough drafts for a Sword and Shield based story. So guess what I'm working onnnnn!!😍😍)

This was requested by the awesome @grammarrrrrr, who was kind enough to do a fic for me, "Healing Curses and Trauma." and was kind enough to let me try one (1) for him!!

I hope this is ok, please tell me if you would like it changed or anything to add or take away. Enjoy!!

💪😎💕

What Goes Around Comes Around.

The day had started off so well. Chloe and the boys had reunited after the Champions Battle and Mew Expedition respectively with their dreams and goals near enough fulfilled. Ash becoming a Champion after his victory over Leon and Goh finally encountering Mew once more, even getting to "hold it on the palm of his hand!"

To celebrate the occasion, the trio and their Pokémon decided that a camp out was the best way to do so. But it was so Chloe could get Goh to admit to Ash that it may be time to go their separate ways now. Goh has learned all he could with Ash, forever grateful for being able to grow into the researcher he always wanted to be and meeting Mew.

But the young girl could see that he couldn't shake off that feeling of potential betrayal to his friends if he ever did so. After an eventful travel to their campsite, enjoying the berries the Poliwag had given them in thanks for saving it from an angry swarm of Spearows, they began reminiscing about their time together as Research Fellows.

Throughout the trip, Chloe had quietly urged Goh to admit to Ash that now was the time to honestly tell the New Champion about his feelings about separating for his own journey, loosening ties to allow himself to be less dependant on his friends. But just when she thought he could do it, he chickens out. It was then she could have kicked herself when Ash casually announced that he was beginning his new journey with just Pikachu.

She saw how Goh couldn't hold it back anymore, tearily asking when Ash had planned to tell him this or if the year they spent together meant anything to Ash. She couldn't blame Ash, the boy was used to saying "See ya when we see ya" to his former travelling companions, having great pleasure in meeting them herself. But she couldn't help the pang of sadness in seeing her life long friend be upset at this new revelation.

Goh couldn't hold back anymore, declaring that since Ash didn't care about it, then their friendship was over and to never talk to him again as he ran off into the woods, his Striker Pokémon, equally as shocked as she was, followed suit.

"Goh wait!!" Ash called out after him, shock has yet to set in for him at what just happened. "What was that all about?"

It was then that Chloe gave the sternest of looks she could muster to the newly appointed World Pokémon Champion. He didn't realise what his words did to harm their friend.

At the same time, she knew Goh was quite secretive about his past and how he had a hard time admitting that making friends was never easy for him.

It took them this trip to the campsite alone to talk about the Abra that would randomly teleport into his family apartment years ago, after witnessing one (1) getting berries from a tree.

With a deep breath, she finally says,

"You were his very first friend, Ash. I don't think you understand how much that meant to him."

Ash, despite being airheaded, really did seem genuinely confused. She supposes that, as someone who always had travel companions and hardships since literally starting his journey, he can easily forget that that it was a difficult task for Goh and even herself to even start their journeys. But all the same, Ash's big heart for people and Pokémon alike has proven that at the end of the day, they all are just people wanting to reach their dreams. Ash took that hard step in sticking with his Pikachu, and the rewards for it has been substantial. And many links were connected thanks to Ash introducing them all at some point or another. So she decided to do something she wouldn't have dreamt on doing before.

"Ash, I understand how things may have been difficult for you when your journey began, but I want you to understand why this is also the case for Goh. If not, even more difficult. It's not my story to tell from his point of view. But if you care for him, then please listen to what I have seen myself."

Ash and Pikachu shared a concerned look between each other before facing her again, now with a determination shining in their eyes.

"Ok. I don't know what Goh had been through, but I want to be able to help him. I can't help him if I don't know how he came to this conclusion. So please, help me understand."

"Pika!"

With that, Chloe took a deep breath and began to tell her side of the story.

========================

*FLASHBACK.*

If Chloe had a dime for every time Goh say "The future is at the palm of my hands!", she is certain that she would have a mansion for herself long before now.

Though that was also something she admire about him as well. But that was also when she seen how much of an outcast he had become. Or maybe it was because they couldn't find a way to understand him, he didn't exactly choose to be one.

A child of a Professor, she understands how people can criticise something they don't understand, even when they are presented with the known and most basic of facts. Her father did many a battle in his field to get to where he is at now.

Goh, despite his young age, already understood plenty. Enough to easily cut off the, thankfully patient, Professor Oak. But why did the other children have to be so cruel when he got praised?

========================

*CURRENT DAY.*

Ash and Chloe were still scavenging around the woods, both they and their Pokémon calling out for their dear friend and hoping to see some sign of him or Cinderace.

"I didn't know it meant so much to him to have me as his friend." Ash says as he looks around the trees. "Those bullies, you said Joshua had a Squirtle back then. I fought him before?"

Chloe grimaces at remembering finding Goh in such a state seeing him again. While he can handle confrontations better now, Chloe understands why there as some people he would much rather avoid.

"He was arrogant, I had my fair share of rivals but he was just a bully. Even after I beat him, he just wouldn't lighten up."

"He still has an ego. And I'm glad that you brought him down a peg or two (2)."

"What did he do to Goh?"

========================

*FLASHBACK.*

"Why don't you just fight back against them, Goh?" Chloe asked as she pulled up the boy from the dirt.

"You're kidding right?" Goh began to protest as he fails to discreetly wipe the tears from his eyes. "I can't fight back someone who is bigger than me! I'm just lucky their Pokémon are in the Daycare Section."

Chloe just sighed. Unfortunately she had come across another harassment against Goh as it was wrapping up. Even her own friends had urged her to try and stay away less she too got caught in between the opposing sides.

Well, she would say it's opposings sides had Goh actually fought back. In this case it's more like avoiding being caught in the bully's cross hair. She can't even say she recognise this one (1) in particular. It wouldn't surprise her, Belle had been spreading rumours lately, something about how Goh would belittle anyone who doesn't know anything about a Pokémon before playing victim to get them into trouble.

Outrageous lies! Goh, from what Chloe had observed of her longtime friend and fellow classmate for a few months, he's very introverted. Intelligent for sure, being the son of two (2) system engineers and programmers would do that as she too, is a child of a Pokémon Professor and Illustrator.

Both bore the heavy expectations to follow in their parents paths in some way but only Goh bore the storm of others doubts and ill intentions. Focusing back to Goh once more, she could see that his injuries are thankfully at a minimal. It was home time now, so she practically pulled him up and towards the main gates.

"W-wha?! Where are we going?!" The dark haired boy exclaims at the sudden pull. "Don't you have to meet your friends after school?"

"Plans change Goh, you should know that!" She smiles back at him, it was a lie she'll need to apologise to her friends for it later, but he didn't need to know that. "They cancelled so I got time. Let's get you home. Your grandma is staying over too, right?"

"Oi, we weren't finished yet, brainiac."

Oh no, Joshua! He was back with his Squirtle. She hears Goh beginning to panic but without a second thought or a single second to look in the bullys direction, she bolts to the main entrance located just around the corner. If they could just get to the door -

"Use Water gun in front of them!"

She didn't see the shot pass their heads, or how it muddied up the grass they were running on. But she did see each blade of grass as she face planks into it, Goh landing on his rear just beside her, not losing grip of his hand.

She stood in front of her friend to shield him from his harasser.

"Out the way Cerise. Don't want the precious little professor to get in the way of his target now, would we?"

"Stop it! Goh didn't even do anything to warrant any of this harassment!" She tried to mimick the best protective growl she could manage. She doesn't know why, but she's tired of seeing her friend hurt.

She was thanking any Legendary God Pokémon she can think of when the teacher rounded the corner and began scolding the bully. It resulted in a week's ban of bringing his Pokémon to the Daycare. He asked Chloe and Goh if their were any more, but Chloe had to reluctantly keep quiet as Goh said no, having met Joshua's raging face.

They couldn't get a hold of Goh's parents, typical, but thankfully Professor Cerise was nearby to pick them up. It was almost pitiful watching her dad help him clean up before offering a ride back home. Goh's Grandmother thankful that her Grandson was safe and sound, having argued with the school before about the brats behaviour towards Goh. She offered the Cerises some of her homemade soup for their trouble.

Goh was clinging to every word the professor was saying about his field of work, eventually asking questions and answering in turn, testing each others knowledge on Pokémon and the likes. She didn't miss how Goh perked up when his computer that his parents built him was brought up and how proud he was when proudly showing off his well organised files on it. Each Pokémon sorted by type, quadpedal or bipedal, typings. She can name it and he would have it.

It was no wonder he was ahead of everyone in school!! She suppose she could come over every now and then to learn more with him.

========================

*CURRENT DAY."

"Now I'm really glad that I dealt with that Joshua. Shame it can't be said about Belle." Ash deflated a bit on that.

"I wouldn't worry about that one (1)." She replies, when Ash looks at her she adds: "Remember when you got me back in touch with Serena after the contest in Lilycove City?"

Ash tried to think back on it, before sheepishly apologising about being late that day. But he was glad to see Serena again and her kindness to help Chloe in the show.

"Ash, it's ok. I had fun doing it. But Belle didn't." She heard Ash say "oh?" And recalls the moment she got to witness karma first hand.

========================

*FLASHBACK."

"And why does SHE get to preform with Serena and I can't?!" Chloe heard a voice practically bawl out on timing with the stomping heels against tiled flooring.

"Competitor Belle please restrain yourself from lashing out." One (1) of the staff tried to calm her down. "Miss Cerise -"

"CERISE?!" Chloe now recognised that shrill voice anywhere now. "The Loser Crybaby Protector?!

"Competitor Belle!" It was Serena's voice that cut through as she came out of the changing room. "That sort of behaviour is not tolerated in Contests."

"But why?! Why the Crybaby Loser Protector." Belle pushed the topic more. "She was the reason I got suspended for no reason!!"

The rumors continues, even now. Chloe was ready to charge in there and confront Belle, but a hand on her shoulder. Turning to find it had been Lisia who had stopped her, a finger against her lips to signal Chloe to be quiet and watch.

"That was your last warning Miss Belle. Malicious behaviour against other competitors have zero (0) tolerance here or anywhere. But I did have the pleasure of speaking to an aquitance of mine who knows of Miss Cerise and Goh." Chloe could feel her chest tighten and her grip around Eevee cause the poor thing to squirm out of her hold and onto her shoulders instead to avoid being crushed. "And it appears that some of yours as well is still continuing this unwarranted behaviour!"

"I know one (1) of the judges here! I will have you kicked out of this contest before you even set foot on that stage!" Belle cockily threatens. "So it's best you have her drop out before you both get kicked to the curb."

"I have already had the pleasure of speaking to the judges already before today's performances. None have confirmed to even heard of you until now."

"I'm sorry Miss Belle," the staff member says, not sorry at all as she removes her hand from her earpiece "But I'm afraid it's now best you leave the premises now, as word of your unruly behaviour have reached the Organisers and Judges and have deemed you unfit for this competition or future competitions."

Chloe's jaw dropped, Lisia smiling just behind her. She turned, unable to form words as she points to Lisia and back to Belle. Lisia just nods and walks off to next on stage. Well, looks like today's competition will be a lot smoother now, whether she won or not at least the competition looks more appealing than ever.

========================

*CURRENT DAY.*

"So that's why Goh was grinning ear to ear on the boat!" Ash exclaimed. He recalled meeting his old friend Serena literally moments before the boat had set sail. "Glad Serena was there to deal with that bully too."

"Yeah. Last I heard, Belle was dragged out and on a 'not allowed to compete' list." Chloe said happily, before turning serious again. "Ash, that's what you have to understand. Goh has learned a lot from you. Even I learned from you."

"Huh? I don't think I really taught you guys anything." Ash scratched the back of his head. "I only know how to help with battling."

"Not only in battles. But in understanding Pokémon and even ourselves." She explained. "Before, I had no interest in Pokémon and Goh was bullied relentless for being the opposite of me. He was so determined to have Mew as his first Pokémon, but then imagine my surprise when he's back with a Scorbunny! Then he really opens up and became less stubborn about learning things the only way he knew how. Became part of the Mew Project and met the real Mew!"

Here she grabs both of Ash's hands in her own to emphasize how she feels.

"Goh would never have come this far if it weren't for you. I wouldn't have met Eevee. We wouldn't have met all your friends and learn the world is full of opportunities and that there isn't a bully out there that we can't stand up to."

"But if that's the case, why did Goh get upset? We helped him with his panic and trauma with those bullies? Even if it's just helping him get through the panic attacks." Ash asked, upset at what he could have done to be a new cause for one (1).

"Because he feels like that would be betraying you. You declaring your new adventure was so easy for you, that Goh felt like his announcement to do the same was meaningless." She turned away from Ash, scanning at the treelines for their missing friends. "He's afraid that both sides may have just betrayed each other."

Ash looks at his partner, the Electric Mouse Pokémon looking back at him with dropped ears with a said "Pika."

"I'll help him understand why he's wrong about that. It's never a "good bye" but it's really saying "I can't wait to see you again and hear all about your adventures" kind of thing." Ash calmly explains as he continues scanning as well. With determination burning within his eyes, he adds, "And I'll be sure to tell him that when we find him. We can't let things end on bad terms and misunderstandings."

Chloe looks at him, studying him. His raised clenched fist held up in front of him, a determined expression and looking ready to physically deal with a problem and his Pikachu's matching pose helped her realise she also needed to hear the same thing from Ash.

Both her and Goh journeyed so far to get to where they are now. A simple misunderstanding will unravel and tarnish the very lessons they had learned thanks to Ash, their families and the friends and Pokémon that were met along the way. The rain began to lighten up, as if the heavy burden were finally lifting off of her shoulders and would come to an end when Goh realises the same thing.

"Then let's find him and tell him just that then." Chloe agrees, Eevee matching her determination just as much as Pikachu has with Ash. "And when we do, it will be just the start of something new. For all of us."

Both trainers stare each other in the eyes, scaling to see if their words bore the same strength as their actions have. Then grinned. They continue to search before Pikachu hears something and urges them to follow. They had come so far in this journey. The words of those bullies has come back to bite them and turn them into the very things they called Goh. So as she stands there with Cinderace, Pikachu and Eevee, watching them clear everything up and the rain ceasing, she knows that what it truly meant to be side by side with friends who truly love you for who you are as you grow along side with them.

The future truly is at the palm of their hands.