#Riser dad moments

[fandomsandfairytales]

I feel like I need to give Riser Way a shoutout for Father's Day because he's been the main dad character I've been reading about for the last several months and he's awesome.

I've only got a few minutes left before it's no longer Father's Day in my timezone (update: I'm 7 minutes too late now, lol, but whatever), so here's a selection of highlights of Riser being a fantastic dad!

For this post it's only Riser and Nikki snippets from Óhchikaape—with the exception of the final snippet, which is from the latest chapter of Montana Stars because I couldn't not include it—but I'll probably do a more comprehensive follow-up post at some point with highlights of Riser being a dad with all his kids (including more Nikki).

“You’re trying to get rid of me. You can’t wait ‘til I’m gone, can you. All this trouble I’ve caused, I’m not stupid, and money I’ve cost you too. No one does what you do just to be nice , and if they do it doesn’t last long before they get tired of it. You’re ready to be done. Ship my ass home and be done with me. Get on with your life. No one has ever cared enough to come looking, not since Daddy died. No one has cared enough to make me stop .” She whirls and slams her hand into the wall, and the broken thing in it, chipping the paint and gouging the drywall. He catches her wrist and pushes it away. "If that was how things were I wouldn't'a just torn this town apart for four days and put myself in the position of owing half the people in it a favor to find ya."

^ Óhchikaape, chapter 15 "I Don't Want to be Alone Again"

"Is there anything else ya want? A doll maybe?" She gives him a black look. “One of you maybe, to stick pins in.” Muttering. “…doll…” His shoulders shake and he turns away hastily to hide his grin; rather pointlessly, since it's quite audible in his voice. "We could check out the kiddie makeup section." “I’m going to trounce you right here in the parking lot.” "Princess bedding? I was supposed to have gotten you princess bedding already but I've been distracted..." “You get me princess bedding and I’ll go sleep in the cab of the truck with your coat.  You can sleep on the princess bedding, you have the princess hair.  Like… whatshername. Pasnuzel.” "How about a nice pink bracelet?" he suggests, fighting desperately and futilely to keep a straight face. She skips around an oil slick and back in close to his side and says, “What’s with you and the pink? We can pick out some pink stuff for you, you know. I won’t judge.”

^ Óhchikaape, chapter 17 "Until You Know I Love You"

“Everyone picks on kids like that, it’s just what you do!” "No it's not. And you will be apologizing to each and every one of them when we get back, you understand me?" Her eyes go wide and horrified. “I can’t do that!” "Oh yeah?" He doesn't sound impressed. "And why's that?" “Because it’ll be embarrassing!” "As embarrassing as it was to them when you made fun?" She moans a little, shoulders sagging. “Rissserrrrr….” "Would it be?" he says harshly. "As upsetting to you as it was to them, to be taunted for something beyond their control? To be taunted for wanting to be able to see clearly?" “I never meant it like that…” "Then how'd you mean it." “It was just… I don’t know, Riser, I just… thought it would be… funny.” She trails off miserably. "Were they laughing?" “…some other kids would. I mean… did.” Her shoulders are hunched. “I’ll say sorry when we get back, okay? Let’s just… stop talking about it.” "Not until I'm satisfied that you understand not only that what you did was wrong but also why." “I don’t know, because it wasn’t… nice?” Unbidden her mind darts to her little brother and she imagines in a flash bigger kids surrounding him while he cowers on the floor, his arms over his head. She imagines Silver hunched against a locker with his hands shoved in his pockets, cruel words flung at him and no towering uncles to come to his defense. “It wasn’t… it wasn’t nice.” She looks up at him a little weakly. “Riser, no one is nice where I come from.” "I believe ya. But it's not fighting back to pass the cruelty on. I’ll help ya keep the bigger kids off ya back, but there'll be no more picking on the smaller ones, you understand me?" “Yes.” "An' you'll be apologizing to the ones you've wronged." She sticks her face in her arm with a long groan. "And you'll mean it." Finally she lifts her head, red-faced and eyes pleading. “Okay. I will. Can we be done?” He eyes her calculatingly a moment longer. "Alright. Let's go pick you out some frames."

^ Óhchikaape, chapter 25 "Eye Guy and Cabbages"

Riser stands abruptly and catches hold of Nikki's ankles, dangling her a few inches above the floor and just sweeping it with her hair. "Look! I have a new broom!" “I’m a SWIFFER,” Nikki squawks, bending like a snake to see him better. "Do you cede, kiddo?" he asks, grinning down at her. Birdie lifts one hand, groans, and lets it flop dramatically back down. "My deepest and sincerest apologies, my lady. I shall be no more aid, callously broken by my own brother and left to die." “Never,” Nikki vows, and pretends to chomp his jean-leg in her teeth and shake it like a terrier. Riser shrugs and hoists her up higher and nudges one sneaker off with his shoulder to nibble at her toes. "Ooh, yum, snack." Her snarls turn to shrieks of protest. “I’ve been wearing these socks for three days straight Riser ack! Eek! Stopit!” Helpless laughter, feeble thrashing. "Do you give?" he asks thickly around a mouthful of toes. “That is so disgusting help! Ken! Help!” A shuffling sound from the hallway and Ken emerges to glare at them all balefully through sleepily squinted eyes. "ALL OF YOU, stuff a sock in it, or I'm slinging your sorry carcasses outside and locking you out." "I've already shtuffed a shock in it," Riser points out, and earns himself the full weight of Ken's glare. “Ken! Help! He’s eating my—eep—FEET!” "Shut. Up. All of you," Ken snarls, and stomps back to his room, slamming his door.

^ Óhchikaape, chapter 25 "Eye Guy and Cabbages"

"Yup." He nudges his chin gently against the side of her head. "But I'm not gonna whup you until you can handle it." She makes a sound that’s half groan and half exasperation. “How will you know when that is? When I’m thirty, maybe? Thirty sounds good.” He smirks a little and hitches her up. "Hopefully it won't still be necessary when you're thirty. No, it will wait until you know I love you, and will know it even when your ass is smarting." She’s silent all the way to the front of the store. She’s silent as he scans things through the self-check without putting her down. She’s silent as he pays and trundles her and the buggy out into the fading light and she’s silent when he finally sets her down beside the Eagle and hands her her helmet. She holds it between her hands, staring down at it, at the sharp snap-cuffs of the soft leather jacket, at her own hands. She turns the right one to see the raised pink line across the palm. Finally she says in a whisper, “You do?” He crouches to look up and meet her eyes. "I do." Her first step toward him is a fling; she draws up, remembering the stab-wound, and hugs him very gently around the neck. He wraps his arms about her and pats her back. "Y' my kid, understand? And I love you." She’s feeling suddenly sniffly and doesn’t quite know why. She says against his shoulder, “I… don’t think I understand all of it. But I understand… milkshakes. And coats. And shoes. And steak. And…” She has to stop and take a breath. “I understand… someone looking. I understand that.” He rocks her just a little. "I'll always be here for ya. I'll always be here for you. Okay?" She laughs a little in tearful disbelief. “I still don’t think I understand why. I’m… scrawny and smart-mouthed and I run away instead of saying… thank you.” "Doesn't mean you deserve it any less," he says reflectively. "Means you need it more."

^ Óhchikaape, chapter 17 "Until You Know I Love You"

"I'm your stepdad, it's my job to notice. An' put a stop to it." “I don’t… I don’t think I like that word as much.” "Which word?" “The… sounds like Cinderella or something.” "Stepdad?" She grinds her face against his shoulder. “Mm-hmm.” "Alright. Your Riser then. It's my job to notice, an' put a stop to it." “I don’t… it’s just the… step part I don’t like.” She hides her face in his neck. Riser blinks and blinks again and then a grin stretches his face wide. "Really?" “Really what.” "You mean it?" She lifts her head and looks at him squintily. “Mean what, Riser.” He takes a breath. "Do you... want to call me Dad?" “I’m not… I don’t… I want to call you that when I… when people ask. Because you are. Riser. Aren’t you? Now?” "Yes, baby, I am," he says quietly, and pulls her close again in a tight fierce hug.

^ Montana Stars, chapter 5 "Fencing"

I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. Happy Father's Day, Riser Way. Not words I ever thought I'd write, but he deserves it XD

@thegreenleavesofspring tagging you to make sure you see this <3

[ssahotchnerr]

Aaron and reader on their daughter’s first day of preschool 🥺 aaron is super protective and is like “why can’t we homeschool her??”

baby steps

THAT'S ADORABLE cw; fem!reader, girl!dad aaron, brief mentions of food, reader and aaron are married

when it came to baby girl hotchner starting school - a feat that once felt like was forever away - you assumed aaron would be the pillar of strength, especially after going through the same with jack a few years ago. you would have bet money he would've been the one persuading you out of the house, tossing reassurances left and right, getting you to smile through the tears; the voice of reason.

but, you were wrong.

from the moment your daughter was laid in aaron's arms, she wholeheartedly and completely had him wrapped around her little finger. and so the morning of her first day, aaron, the ever prompt riser, seemed to get out of bed much slower than usual. he was going to the office a bit late so he could see her off to school, but even on his days off would he be up before his alarm.

shockingly, and perhaps for the very first time since you have known him, aaron had hit snooze. just once, though, for five minutes.

likewise he sluggishly had gotten ready for the day, and now he was merely a shadow - following you around until it was time to wake the kiddos up.

"sweetheart?"

"hm?" you hummed in question, sealing the ziploc containing jack's sandwich.

"look at this."

after securing the bag into jack's lunch box, you glanced in aaron's direction, only to find him holding up her tiny, purple backpack. on his face, the most broken hearted expression there ever was.

"can't we homeschool her?" aaron asked, his voice the equivalent to a whine.

"yeah." you snorted out a laugh, grabbing another baggie for baby girl's snack. "with all the free time we have."

he continued to silently poke around as you finished preparing jack's lunch. it was only a matter of time until he found something else to mournfully point out.

"honey." next in hand, her brand new pair of sneakers (a small pair of pink converse, courtesy of uncle spencer) which looked absolutely minuscule in those hands of his.

"they're just shoes. she has how many pairs?" you teased gently, fighting the urge to succumb to tears yourself, courtesy of your husband.

"they're school shoes."

"you better quit it, or you're going to make me cry." with your index finger, you indicated for aaron to come. once he was in reach, you pulled him to you, wrapping your arms around his middle.

aaron instinctively placed a kiss on the top of your head, mumbling into your hair afterwards. "our little girl is growing up, isn't she?"

"she'll only be gone for three hours. three times a week at that." you toyed with his tie soothingly, and he released a deep sigh. "she'll still be your little girl when she gets back, i promise."

the look on his face was still utterly unconvinced - head cocked a bit to the side, eyebrows pulled, his lips almost begging to retake shape of his previous pout.

"now c'mon, let's go get our bugs up for their first day." you gave aaron an enthusiastic smile, to which he couldn't help but smile back - your smile was his weakness - releasing your hold on him.

but at the loss of contact, and at the next action at hand, a small groan escaped him. as you trekked up the stairs, you peered behind, making sure he was following you.

he was, and mumbling under his breath.

"god how am i going to survive when she's off to kindergarten?"

[urmomschocolatemilk]

Dad!price

I wrote this for a request and then scrapped it. My inbox is open for ghost headcanons as of now & part four of the Price series is underway

Prices second daughter was ten years old, she was, in his opinion, the most adventurous of all his daughters. She would consistently drag her sisters out to play in the mud, challenge them at the monkey bars when they’d go to the park and hopped around sports.  

It was spring now. The mornings were warm and dewy, bustling with calm life and that was newly reawakened by early morning light. His little girl had always been an early morning riser, even on the weekends so it was no surprise when she sprung up from the sofa where she had quietly been watching wild crats one morning and marched her way into the kitchen where Price was drinking a cup of Coffee.  

“Dad,” she started, and Price hummed in acknowledgment looking down at the girl, “can we go on a bike ride?” Her other sisters were still asleep and her mother was just getting out of bed, it was quiet early for a bike ride. Price set down his hot mug, and turned his wrist so he could see the time on his watch.  

“And where would you want to go at this time-of-day little lady?” Price asked. His daughter paused for a moment and then she grinned as she was struck with an idea.  

“We can go get ice-cream.” She offered, looking quite pleased with her proposition. 

Price replied with a reminder, “I don't think the shops are open at this hour sweetheart.” His daughter pouted.  

“Then we can just ride around,” she said, “pleaseee.” she begged, looking up at her father with mock puppy dog eyes. Price chuckled lightly, reaching out to pinch her cheek. She flinched and pulled away.  

“Go change,” he instructed her, and she grinned. Turning on her heel and racing out of the kitchen to her room. Price finished his coffee, and washed the mug, before leaving the kitchen to go change as well. When he exited his room, his daughter was standing by the door waiting impatiently for him. 

“You’re just as slow as my sisters.” she complained as he approached her.  

“I didn't realize we were in a rush,” he retorted lightheartedly. 

“I am.” she responded. Price chuckled but didn't respond, slipping on his shoes and pocketing the keys to their flat.  

“You got your helmet?” Price asked, and she held it up with a wordless nod. He opened the door, letting her walk in-front of him. “Lead the way little lady.”  

The two biked around the block for about 30 minutes, before Price decided an early morning treat wouldn't hurt and took them to get lemonades at their favorite breakfast place. They sat outside, on the restaurant patio sipping at the cold drinks.  

“What’s your favorite season?” Price asked her as she took another cheery sip of her lemonade. 

His daughter answered surely, “probably spring.” 

“Why do you like Spring?” The girl grinned, kicking her feet under the table as she watched the a butterfly flutter by,  

“Because of the mornings.”  

[bunnysnuff]

Teen dad!Nick Nelson headcannons:

Pairing: teen dad! Nick Nelson x Kid!reader.

Trigger warnings: feelings of overwhelming feelings, vulnerability and parental stress.

Request.

Loving but Overwhelmed Dad: Nick’s the kind of teen dad who puts his heart into everything, even though he’s still figuring it all out. He’s super hands-on but often feels overwhelmed, balancing school and being a dad. You’ll often see him with his textbooks open while rocking you to sleep, trying to juggle it all.

Early Mornings with Cuddles: Nick is naturally an early riser, and his mornings are often spent with you in his lap, watching cartoons while he eats cereal. He makes sure you have your favorite breakfast too, probably something like fruit and waffles cut into little pieces because he’s super cautious about choking hazards.

Playful and Affectionate: He’s always down for playtime, even if he’s tired. He’ll roll around on the floor with you, letting you climb all over him. You’re his little shadow, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. Sometimes he lifts you onto his shoulders and walks around the house, making airplane noises to make you giggle.

Protective Yet Soft: Nick is fiercely protective. Even as a teen, he’s constantly worrying if you’re okay, double-checking your car seat or making sure you’re bundled up in the cold. But he’s also incredibly soft, reading bedtime stories in silly voices or singing you to sleep when you’re fussy.

Charlie as a Co-Parenting Support: Charlie is always by Nick’s side, acting as a co-parenting partner. He’s the calmer, more organized one, helping Nick when things feel chaotic. They share parenting duties, so while Nick handles playtime and meals, Charlie might help with doctor appointments or nap schedules.

School Struggles: Being a teen dad means Nick sometimes struggles to keep up with school. He often stays up late to finish homework after you’ve gone to bed, feeling the weight of responsibility. Despite this, he refuses to let his grades drop because he’s determined to build a better future for you.

Always Wearing Matching Outfits: Nick loves dressing you up in little rugby jerseys or matching outfits. He thinks it’s the cutest thing, and he loves taking pictures with you in matching beanies or sweatshirts. It’s something small that brings him joy and helps him feel like he’s bonding with you.

Supportive Family and Friends: Nick’s family, especially his mom, helps out when things get tough. She adores you and is always offering to babysit. Nick’s friends also pitch in whenever they can, treating you like the little mascot of the group.

Emotional Vulnerability: Even though Nick tries to stay strong for you, there are moments when he’s emotionally vulnerable. Sometimes, after a particularly hard day, he’ll sit with you in his arms, tears welling up because of the pressure, but your little smile or laugh makes everything worth it.

Learning as He Goes: Nick’s always learning new things about being a dad. Whether it’s how to change diapers faster or figuring out which foods you like, he takes it all in stride. He may be young, but he’s dedicated and determined to be the best dad he can be, even when it’s hard.

Endless Patience: Nick has incredible patience, even during your tantrums or sleepless nights. He never raises his voice, instead choosing to talk to you softly or distract you with your favorite toy. He’s gentle, always trying to understand what you need.

Bringing You to Rugby Games: When Nick has rugby games, he brings you along, bundled up in a tiny jacket. Charlie usually holds you on the sidelines, cheering him on while you wave at him. After the game, Nick always scoops you up and lets you pretend to play with the ball, even though it’s almost as big as you.

[plussizefantasia]

CozyTober Day 8: Apple Cider Donuts

Dad!Steve Rogers x Mom!reader

This is a continuation of Pumpkin Patch from last year's Flufftober Event

WC: 1.3k

warnings: none, just pure sweetness

an: we're all going to collectively agree not to mention the fact that I'm like a week behind in posting these, but I'm actively caffeinated and on a roll so we'll see how long that stays true

Your family didn’t have a whole lot of traditions growing up, and Steve’s mom tried her best but it was hard balancing work and a sick son, especially during the depression. That just meant that the traditions you made with Caleb were just that much more special.

Last year the three of you made the trip to Henderson Orchard for their fall activities. You had spent the whole day watching your son have fun and fawning over your husband and how amazing of a father he is. You carved up your pumpkins and thus began a new family tradition.

Caleb is six now and despite the fact that he is adamant that he is a ‘big boy’ now, he’s still your little man and you still want to take him out for a fun day together. Finally, the weather cooled down enough that it felt “fall-ish” enough to make the trip. 

You made French toast for breakfast with some chopped strawberries and vanilla yogurt and waited patiently for your boys to wake up and amble their way downstairs. Steve used to be an early riser, years of military service and the need for a strict regime made his internal clock kickstart hours before your own. A life of domesticity had dulled that clock and now it wasn’t as rare for you to wake up before your husband.  

Steve was the first of your boys to join you in the kitchen though, taking the mug of coffee from your outstretched hand and placing a kiss on your shoulder as he passed you. 

“You made breakfast?” He asked.

“Don’t sound so surprised.” you chuckled at him. 

Steve and you enjoyed a few quiet moments together. Both of you are silent, merely enjoying each other's presence. There was a time when you would have tried to fill the silence but after ten years together small talk just didn’t feel needed anymore. 

Your peace is disrupted by the thuds of tiny feet from above you, followed by a creaking door and then even faster thuds down the stairs.

Caleb turned the corner and ran into the kitchen.

“Mom, Dad! I woke up in my room and wanted to tell you about my dream so I ran to your room but you weren’t there which was sad, but then I smelled breakfast so I thought you would be in the kitchen so I ran downstairs and then I found you.” He rushed out in one breath.

“I’m glad you found us, buddy. Do you still want to tell us about your dream?”

“Yes!” He yelled, “I-” He paused, “I forgot it.” He shrugged and plopped down on the stool next to Steve. 

Steve ruffled his hair and placed a plate in front of him. Caleb wasted no time digging into his breakfast and like his father, demolished the food within minutes. 

Soon the three of you were packed into your car and on your way to the Orchard for some fall family fun. 

Caleb spent the entire drive there regaling Steve and yourself all about what his new friend Archie and he get up to on the playground. He told you all about how Archie wasn’t very good at running games or climbing games or games with balls but that he was super funny and “Soooo smart mommy, like smarter than Uncle Tony.” 

As soon as the orchard was in view though, Caleb quickly switched gears, “What are we gonna do this time Dad? Will there be goats like last year? What about the corn pit? The corn pit was fun, though I got corn in my shoe. Are we getting pumpkins again? Are we getting apples? Can we get both? I don’t know how we’ll carry both though. Maybe Daddy and I can take them to the car so we don’t have to carry them. Can I help you carry the apples and pumpkins to the car Dad?” If there was one thing you don’t think you’d ever get tired of, it’s the energy your little boy has. His curiosity knows no bounds and it’s something that Steve and you are doing your best to foster in him.

“Why don’t we look around a little first before making too many plans, okay bud?” Steve said to reel Caleb in and more importantly, to get him to breathe. 

The three of you take a lap around the place, looking at all there is to do and making a game plan for the rest of the day. Caleb and Steve have fun in the Corn pits once again, you help Caleb pet the cows in the barn and all three of you once again pick perfect pumpkins. This year you also check out the apple orchard on the far side of the property and get a large bag on honeycrisps, both to eat and bake with.

While you were over there you noticed a small white cabin-like building with smoke coming out the chimney and other people trailing in and out. You pat Steve on his shoulder and nod your head in the direction of the building.

“Why don’t you boys take the apples back to the car while I check this place out and then we can meet back at the tables near the corn maze to check in?” 

“Okay, Mommy,” Caleb yells before giving your leg the quickest hug in the world and then grabbing his father’s hand and pulling him off in another direction. 

You chuckle and head towards the building. 

When you get inside you’re met with a woosh of warm air and a spectacular smell. Looking around you see this place is absolutely full of all kinds of baked goods stacked on tables, along with a bustling kitchen team behind the counter kneading, icing, and plating all kinds of amazing culinary creations. 

You smile to yourself and step towards the counter, wanting to get a nice treat for your boys.

When you got into view of the tables you had told the boys to meet you at, they were already sitting there and your heart melted a little bit at the sight you witnessed. Caleb sat next to Steve on the bench, his head leaning against Steve’s shoulder and Steve’s arm wrapped around Caleb’s back. 

You felt a smile spread across your face and you quickened your pace to get to your little family quicker. 

“Well, aren’t you two just the sweetest?” You asked as soon as you were within hearing distance, both of their head’s perked up and they landed their eyes on you immediately. 

“We don’t have anything on you, Doll.” Steve winked at you and you took a seat across from them.

“You wanna know what else is sweet?” You lifted an eyebrow and looked at Caleb.

“Cotten Candy.” He replied matter-of-factly.

“That is true but I was thinking something a little more substantial.” You laughed and placed the boat of apple cider donuts on the table.

“Donuts!” Caleb yelled and began to practically vibrate in his seat.

“Go ahead, buddy.” Steve looked down at him and nodded his head towards the sweet treat, holding back a laugh when Caleb launched himself at the sugar-covered rings.

The three of you talk and share your treat until they are all gone and when Caleb wobbles his lip and bats his eyelashes at Steve, you all walk back towards the bakery and get more.

Caleb holds his donuts in front of him and walks slightly ahead of Steve and you, the three of you making your way back towards the main thoroughfare.

“So, are we keeping this tradition?” You bump your hip against Steve’s and look up at him when you ask.

He chuckles and pulls you into his side with an arm around your shoulder. His gaze stays locked on Caleb while the little boy ventures forward. “Yeah Hon, this one is for keeps.”

[raisunomii]

today, garroth ro'meave.

[a drabble preceding garroth faking his death, as i see it.]

The castle is silent. The castle has been silent since Garte left. Garroth didn't ask where he was going. He didn't care, as long as the shouting stopped.

The silence screeches like a wyvern.

RO'MEAVE ROYAL RESIDENCE, O'KHASIS, 5 A.M.

It's cold, Garroth thinks the moment his eyes snap open. He's always been an early riser. His feet against the cool stone-brick that comprises his bedroom floor is familiar, but is never welcome. He makes his way across the room regardless, stumbling to the bathroom. He strikes a match, his oil lamp lighting seconds later.

Stubble is the enemy.

He drops his blade on the sink when he's finished.

Sometimes Garroth wakes before the servants. Today, however, is not one of those days. The halls are as lively as ever- that is to say, stray whispers echo through the walls, but one can never be sure if they come from the wind or some creature.

And his mother has never been one to talk to herself.

RO'MEAVE ROYAL RESIDENCE, O'KHASIS, 6 A.M.

"Mother," Garroth says, maintaining his distance. "Did you sleep well?"

Zianna does not face him. She hasn't seen him, these past few weeks, not for lack of physical closeness. Garroth is sure the cityscape is a more favorable view than him. The sunrise is always beautiful.

He takes a few steps forward and guides his mother away from the window.

"Back to bed," he whispers, but he's sure she hasn't slept. He ignores the purple mottling her left cheekbone. Dad's gone now.

Breakfast is hearty.

THE TRAINING GROUNDS AT O'KHASIS, O'KHASIS, 8 A.M.

Slash, parry, pass. Slash, parry, pass. Again. Slash, parry, and if he's lucky, he won't think of Nicole.

Garroth can't remember the last time Irene favored him with 'luck'. His brother's always had that honor.

"Brother."

And he shall appear.

Garroth sheaths his blade. Zane is in full attire, Garroth notes. Wonder who he killed today. Must've been clean- his robes are still white.

"Well? Speak if you will," Garroth instructs, jutting up his chin for a mere second. Zane's gaze is full of disgust. Another day.

"A letter from Scaleswind found its way to my hands," Zane pauses to take in Garroth's expression, carefully taking in the slightest twitch of his brother's brow. "Nicole is set to come in a week."

Garroth nods. "I look forward to it."

He turns back to his craft, hoping Zane will leave, or at the least, be mindful enough not to stab him in the back. Slash-

"Mother slept the night," Zane says, "or at least some of it."

"I sent her to bed this morning." Parry. He can feel Zane's spirits drop. Pass.

Zane's boots crackle against the dirt as he leaves.

RO'MEAVE ROYAL RESIDENCE, O'KHASIS, 6 P.M.

Gnawing hunger is quickly welcomed once one realizes it keeps the mind off of unwanted betrothal. This is why Garroth has delayed dinner to stew in his own sorrow. Quite literally- the bath is much too hot today. What were the servants thinking?

His skin is red. Lady Irene.

The doorknob to the bath jiggles and Garroth has to fight back a groan.

"Bathing!" He shouts, though it doesn't make a difference, because the door swings open anyways. "Must you harass me while I'm in the tub?"

"I find you're less prone to fits of silence like this," Vylad says smoothly, dragging up a chair to the side of the tub. "Odd. Should I be cornered in a bath tub, I may refuse to speak at all."

Vylad is met with an eye roll. This does not deter him. He prattles on for about twenty minutes until Garroth demands he leave, at which point he wanders to the dining room to wait for Garroth to get dressed for a shared dinner.

Vylad often forgets to eat.

RO'MEAVE ROYAL RESIDENCE, O'KHASIS, 2 A.M.

Slowly and quickly does he in patterns scurry, as a mouse avoiding a scythe during harvest. His boots make soft noises on the brick which thunder in the silence of the O'Khasis morning. Moreso, in the temporary silence of the Ro'Meave Residence.

His bag is heavy and his sword clatters with movement. Every noise is detriment.

"Garroth?"

He whips around.

"Mother," Garroth says, standing what may be miles from Zianna, but he's sure is only a few meters. Their eyes do not meet, but he sees confusion all the same.

"What are you doing? It's late, too late for you to..." Mother trails off, making way for more screaming, intolerable silence.

It is the first time they've spoke in weeks.

"Training. Early morning training."

He can see his mother force back a scoff, because for all her despair, she's never been daft. Garroth knows that she doesn't have the energy to deal with his antics at the moment. She knows this as well, and sighs, turning away.

"Be safe," she calls.

"I will!"

[builtaworldwithyourlove]

Free Falling

Chapter Two

2k/ (eventual) husband!joel x f!reader /minors dni

‘I felt very still and very empty, the way the eye of a tornado must feel’

Summary: you take the leap to leave your stagnant relationship, and end up falling into the arms of a man who will give you the life you always dreamed of. 

Content: loveless relationship, mention of TW: domestic violence, emotional abuse, age gap (reader is mid-late 20s, Joel is late 30s-mid 40s), angst, allusions of cheating, sad sad sad but Joel will save the day, slow burn, smut, fluff, oc(reader’s boyfriend and friends/family), mention of reader grieving loss of her dad, swearing, smoking, alcohol consumption, lovely lovely baby boy Joel, reader is a sweetheart, sexual tension, no smut just yet, some physical description of reader, Let me know if I’ve missed anything.

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Saturday morning was glorious. Your bedroom was fortunately positioned so that the sun shone through your white cotton curtains, and woke you up naturally. Although you didn’t get to revel in the peace for long, as Leo decided to scale the curtains and cry for help as he got stuck in limbo.

With a sigh, you rolled out of bed. You scooped Leo up in your arms and held him whilst you made the rounds opening all the windows and setting the house up for the day.

The coffee machine was the most important visit of the day. You were an early riser, so your 7am coffee was the surest way to keep you somewhat personable. You put some music on and started to tidy your kitchen, when your phone started ringing. It was Joel.

‘Morning, could you text me your address? I’ll be there within the hour.’ 

‘Sure! I’ll get the coffee ready now’ you replied.

Joel chuckled ‘See ya.’

Someone’s not a morning person, you thought to yourself. 

You let Joel know to let himself in round the back in case you didn’t answer as you were getting yourself ready. You ran up the stairs, trying to ignore the excitement in your chest. It would be the first time you’d have  some potential male attention, although he was an old family friend, surely he wouldn’t see you in that way. You got out of your head, made your bed and sprayed it with your fabric freshener, then lit a stick of incense followed by your favourite sedona sandstone candle.

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You showered and drenched yourself in cocoa butter and your Flora Luminare perfume. The doorbell rang and you skipped downstairs to answer.

Joel stood there, towering over you. He was gorgeous. Chiselled, tanned, the deepest brown eyes and softest looking lips.

He stood there taking you in. You were shorter than him, your hair fell down to your waist and he was encompassed by a cloud of your scent. He could’ve fallen to his knees in awe of you. He remembered the brief moments he had seen you before. It was always after one too many beers, but he knew he found you were beautiful. You made him laugh too, you were always as if butter wouldn’t melt, trying to keep your asshole ex-boyfriend sweet. But he remembered you sneaking smokes in the front yard at family parties, or downing a shot of tequila in the kitchen on your own when things got too much. The sparkle in your eyes never dulled, and your smile never faded.

‘Hey, thanks for coming so early’ you smiled.

Joel shook himself out of his daze.  He winked at you and put his hand on your shoulder.

‘No problem, show me the damage darling.’

His eyes twinkled and he smirked as you placed your hand on Joel’s. You squeezed his hand and gestured him in. 

He examined every part of your house on the way to your bedroom. The baby pink accents, the kitten toys scattered all over the place, and the framed pictures of you with your friends and family.

You quickly joined him with a mug of coffee. You sat cross-legged on the bed. You were wearing baby pink yoga pants and a plain white cropped tee. He looked you up and down, very brazen and not ashamed. You blushed and adjusted yourself to let Leo join you.

‘You the clumsy type then?’ Joel sized up the hole in the wall, and looked over his shoulder at you, with an eyebrow raised.

‘Erm, my ex-boyfriend. Fragile masculinity and alcohol’ you looked down and Joel cringed. He faced you and rested his hands on his hips. Your throat went dry and you couldn’t tell if you were turned on or terrified of being told off for letting yourself in that situation.

‘I’m sorry, baby’ Joel dropped his head and started fixing the wall. 

You watched him intently. His arms flexing as he worked his magic. You let Joel finish as you went downstairs to fix up some food for him to take with him.

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‘The wall’s fixed. Anything else I can do?’ Joel startled you and you hopped round and laughed.

He took the second mug of coffee you offered him and gazed at you. 

‘I need my locks changed’ you rifled down your drawers unable to find the replacement locks, then you remembered you had put them in your glass cabinet. 

The pictures of your dad faced outward as you opened the door to the cabinet, and Joel felt his heart drop. He was so fond of your dad, and couldn’t imagine the shit you had been through this past year. 

He chuckled and took the locks out of your hands. 

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‘I’m all done, is that everything?’ Joel poked his head round the doorway of your dressing room. You grinned as you finished applying your lipgloss and turned around to Joel.

‘Yes thank you, Mr Miller’ you winked.

He turned as if to go. ‘Wait, wait, wait’ you clambered up out of your seat, ‘I’ll see you out.’

Joel gestured to let you lead the way and you half curtsied. He was intrigued. You were so high energy and like a ball of sunshine, and he felt like he was 18 again.

He got his stuff ready and began to head back to the car. 

‘Erm, Joel. I’m having my family and friends round tonight for some drinks. I’d love you to come, to say thank you for your help. Clara and Rufus will be there, so will Mum and the girls’ you felt embarrassed and desperate, but Joel made you feel safe.

‘I wouldn’t miss it for the world, text me a time’ Joel winked and waved as he headed back towards his truck.

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You were a woman infatuated. Joel occupied every corner of your mind. You slid on your flip flops and grabbed your purse before heading to get food and drink for your night of hosting.

You stopped off to drop Rufus and Clara’s lunch to their shop.

‘Now when were you going to tell me Mr Miller is devastatingly handsome?’ You burst through the door of the florist.

‘Well I thought it would be a welcome surprise’ Clara smirked.

‘He’s already called. Said he’s looking forward to seeing us tonight, and that you are an absolute angel.’ Rufus hooked his arm around you, roughing you up as you both do.

‘Eeek! I’m obsessed’ you twirled round and waved yourself out the door. You blew a kiss and practically waltzed down to your car.

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‘Come here anytime from 4:30pm. Wear something pretty😉’ you felt bold after the margaritas you had downed whilst getting ready with the girls. Lottie, Jess and Rhea were your absolute world. You were dancing around the bedroom and dressing room, blaring your music and feeling half tipsy.

It was 3:37pm, and Joel sat at home waiting restlessly to leave. He decided to call your Auntie and Uncle and get a lift with them. 

‘Who are you texting?’ Rhea snatched your phone out of your hand.

‘Stop, you can’t even judge me on this. He’s the hottest man I’ve ever seen. He fixed some bits up in the house yesterday. Knows Rue and Clara, an old family friend. He’s coming tonight’ you girls all squealed in unison.

Rhea still had your phone and headed straight to Facebook. She got Joel’s profile up right away and mocked you with it. She accidentally liked a photo from 3 years ago, and her face dropped. You all went silent before freaking out. She threw your phone to the center of your bed. 

It lit up:

Facebook:

One new friend request- Joel Miller

Chaos ensued, and you were quick to accept it.

Joel texted you letting you know they were on their way. You felt giddy.

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Your mum and sisters arrived and you set your sisters up in the summerhouse at the end of the garden with some of their friends they had bought along. You made them mocktails and let them have free roam of your beauty drawers and facemasks beforehand.

You switched on the fairylights around your garden, and you and the girls sat debriefing on life with your mum and her best friend.

Joel and the rest of your family creeped round through the side gate. You stood up to greet them and your auntie and uncle held you tightly before sauntering off to see your mum and sisters. A few more family acquaintances turned up, and people you know and love, but this was all a daze as Joel kissed your cheek and pulled you in for a cuddle.

His dark curls were swept backwards, with the exception of one that fell over his forehead. ‘Thank you for having me’ he whispered into your ear.

You traced down his arms to his hands, and you squeezed them as if to say thank you. His hands lingered on your waist, perhaps a second too long and the girls couldn’t help but wolf whistle. 

Joel laughed, and headed over to meet everyone.

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The night was beautiful, everyone had too much food and drink, but everyone was happy and content. Your sisters and friends had crashed out in the spare room, which was fine, you loved having guests.  Your mum left after you assuring her you’d be fine to drop the girls off home tomorrow. Your friends had booked an uber to go to the club, but you were more of a homebody, plus Joel had stuck around and you didn’t want him to leave.

You cleared the glasses and bottles away in the kitchen, Joel offered to help but he sat at the table and watched you instead. 

You offered him a cigarette from your hidden box which was in the empty biscuit tin. You sat next to eachother on the backdoor step. The sun was setting and it caressed his features and soaked them in a golden hue. Everything had been moving in double speed since you met him, and now was the first time you got to take in every bit about him, and was also the first time you noticed he did the same to you. He made you laugh until your stomach hurt, and you made him feel relaxed. As you laughed, you leaned into his side, and he wrapped his arm over your shoulders and placed a kiss upon the top of your head.

You looked up at him and he kissed you. Deeply and passionately and carefully. You relaxed your arms over his shoulders and as you deepened the kiss. Then tested the waters and held onto his neck, under his jawline, and pulled him towards you.

‘I wanted to do this since I saw you,’ Joel tilted his forehead pressed against yours, and you grinned. ‘What are you doing tomorrow?’

‘No plans, tackling the aftermath of this I think. Why do you ask?’ Joel stroked your thigh with his thumb. It was cold from nursing a beer, but it was welcome.

‘Would you like to go on a date with me?’ Joel felt shy, and anxious.

‘I wouldn’t want to do anything else. Text me the details, and I’ll be there’ you blushed and kissed his cheek.

‘I’ll pick you up at 5pm baby’ Joel kissed your cheek and headed out as he stumbled towards the cab he had booked.

He sat in the back of the cab and motioned a phone with his hand and mouthed call me. You blew a kiss and waved him off, giggling like a school girl as he waved out of the window of the car.

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You showered and headed to bed, high on life and feeling like you were floating. 

‘Good evening Mr Miller’ you tried your best at flirting, and following Joel’s orders to call him. 

‘I’ve been wondering when you’d call’ he yawned.

‘Bad timing?’

‘Never bad timing with you. I’d answer your call at any second of any day.’ His southern drawl flipped your stomach.

‘I’ll remember that, I may need you a lot from now on.’ You rolled over and snuggled into your pillow.

‘You get some sleep baby. I can’t wait to see you tomorrow’ 

You hung up the phone, texted Joel goodnight and slept through the night in peace.

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@iamsherlocked-1998

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[steddieasitgoes]

made in the a.m.

this was written purely to celebrate the wonderful @henderdads birthday! And okay, maybe also to push the Steddie as boy dads agenda! Hope you enjoy it Cass! wc: 2.2K+ | rated: T Read on ao3

Steve’s an early riser — always has been and probably always will be at the rate he’s going. It’s not that he likes getting up before the sun starts to rise, but he’s never been able to shake the habit engrained in him since he was a kid. He’s learned to embrace it over the years — allowing himself to savor the quiet moments where he can just be before ultimately dragging himself out of bed to go for a morning run. 

Eddie on the other hand is not an earlier riser — never has been and never will be if the last decade and a half together have taught Steve anything. In fact, if Steve doesn’t wake him up in the mornings after he’s finished his own morning routine, he knows Eddie would happily sleep until one or two in the afternoon. 

And yet, when Steve sleepily blinks himself awake at the ungodly, even for him, 4 am hour and rolls over on his side, he finds Eddie’s side of the bed is empty. Stretching his hand out, he runs his palm against the sheets expecting it to be radiating with Eddie’s warmth but they’re cool to the touch. Too cool for Steve’s liking. 

Not wanting to send the world spinning, Steve slowly pushes himself up into a seated position and gives his eyes a minute to adjust to the pitch-dark room. When he’s certain he’s not going to launch himself into another vertigo episode, he looks towards their ensuite bathroom. 

The bathroom is pitch black too which doesn’t really mean anything. Eddie has a bad habit of peeing in the dark in the middle of the night. A habit Steve hates with every fiber of his being because of the mess he often wakes up to. Eddie’s aim is shit when he’s tired and it’s even worse when he’s tired and can’t see. It doesn’t matter that the toilet hasn’t moved in the nearly two decades they’ve lived in the house, Eddie still manages to miss. 

Steve keeps his eyes glued on the open door, patiently waiting for his husband, in his eyes, not the law, to return to bed. A second turns into a minute which turns into two and Steve can feel the anxiety start to set deep in his bones as he realizes that Eddie’s not in the bathroom. 

The sudden spike in anxiety knocks Steve out of his sleepy, slightly delirious state and straight into full consciousness. He doesn’t jump out of bed and reach for the bat like he still keeps tucked safely under their bed — a product of years of therapy and some healthy compromising on his therapist’s part — and instead keys into his other senses, hoping they’ll help him find Eddie without sending himself into full-on panic mode. 

It takes a minute for his ears to adjust to their natural white noise, but then he hears it. A cacophony of distant noise. The clattering of pots and pans, the muffled laughter of their four-and-a-half-year-old son, Eddie’s own slightly too loud whispered voice. 

Steve glances at the clock again to make sure he read it right a few moments ago and yep, it’s now 4:13 in the morning. Far too early for anyone to be awake, even Steve, let alone be goofing around in the kitchen. He knows Jackson’s been having trouble sleeping lately — the dreaded night terrors have taken a toll on his little body, but Steve also knows that Eddie would have waken him if he managed to sleep through Jackson’s crying. So it’s not that. 

It could be that Jackson wandered into their bedroom looking for a snack and Eddie, never one to turn down a late-night snack or two, entertained the idea and carried him down the stairs and into the kitchen. But a late-night snack doesn’t involve pots and pans, at least not in Steve’s eyes which means he’s back and square one wondering what on Earth his boys are doing at such an early hour. 

Just as he’s about to get out of bed and investigate for himself, it clicks. He glances over at the fancy clock on his nightstand that confirms the date. February 26th. Eddie and Jackson aren’t in the kitchen at 4:25 in the morning for themselves, they’re in the kitchen for him. Because today’s Steve’s birthday. 

Steve doesn’t need more confirmation, but it comes anyway in the strong whiff of bacon that makes its way into his room. His stomach growls and his mouth practically salivate at the thought of fresh, crispy, hot bacon but he doesn’t pull himself out of bed. He’s supposed to be sleeping still — a fact he knows Eddie is banking on given the loud shush that leaves his lips when Jackson lets out a pretty hearty laugh for a four-and-a-half-year-old. 

It’s hard to fall back asleep when he knows that chaos is unfolding in his kitchen and the fact that his internal alarm clock will be waking him up in half an hour anyway, so he doesn’t drift back to sleep, but he does sink back into the mattress and let himself rest. 

He supposes he could turn on the television and fall victim to those silly infomercials that used to be his lullaby when he was a twentysomething-year-old still dealing with the aftermath of everything they’d gone through in Hawkins, but he doesn’t want to ruin Eddie and Jackson’s fun by letting them know he’s been awake this whole time, so he lays in bed trying his best not to wonder what is going on downstairs. 

It’s harder than it looks, though, especially when the bacon smell gets overpowered by the sharp aroma of something burning and Eddie lets out a slew of colorful curses that Jackson will no doubt be repeating at some point in the week, but Steve manages to stay put.

Just as the sun is starting to rise, sunlight forcing its way through the slots of their blinds painting their bedroom in the softest yellow light Steve’s maybe ever seen, he hears footsteps making their way up the stairs. 

He shuts his eyes quickly and sinks his head further into his soft pillow. When the door creaks open, he lets out a few, albeit slightly dramatic snore noises, to really seal the deal. Judging by Jackson’s soft giggles, it works. 

“Daddy!” Jackson whispers yells from the side of his bed. “S’your birthday! Wake up!” 

Keeping up the theatrics he’s learned from Eddie over the years, Steve makes a show of slowly opening his eyes. The soft smile that pulls the corners of his lips isn’t fake, though. No, that’s as genuine as it can be as he takes in the sight of Jackson. He’s in the same dinosaur pajamas he helped him into last night, hair still a mess of curls, and eyes slightly droopy as the early hour starts to set in but his smile is what really does it for Steve. That gap-tooth, gummy smile that has Steve reaching over and hosting Jackson up in a matter of seconds. 

“It is my birthday? I thought that was tomorrow,” Steve teases. 

“No,” Jackson giggles violently shaking his head. “S’today! S’why daddy and I made you breakfast. See!” 

Jackson throws his entire arm in the direction of Eddie and Steve follows it before biting the inside of his cheek to keep his lay at bay. If Jackson is a tired mess, Eddie is exhaustion personified. His own curls are just as unruly, never calming with age. His threadbare shirt has a grease stain smack dab in the middle and his pants are slung very low on his hips, threatening to fall any second now if he doesn’t pass Steve the tray and hike them back up where they belong. And the bags under his eyes have bags of their own, but none of that distracts Steve from Eddie’s own megawatt smile. 

“Not just any breakfast, Jackson,” Eddie says, taking a careful step forward so he doesn’t trip over his pants and send their hard work flying. “Breakfast in bed.” 

“Daddy says that’s the most special kind of breakfast,” Jackson nods. 

“It is,” Steve confirms before scooping Jackson into his arms again. He kisses the top of his head before gently setting him down beside him, clearing his lap for the tray that Eddie wastes no time setting in front of him. “Wow! This looks delicious!” 

Steve catches the way Eddie bites his lip to keep his own laughter at bay. There’s an impressive spread on the plates in front of him, but delicious might be pushing it. The toast is burnt to a crisp, it’s a miracle it hasn’t disintegrated yet. The bacon is unevenly cooked, crispy on one side and fatty, and soft on the other. The yokes in his sunny side eggs definitely cracked during the cooking process and the hashbrowns are definitely still thawing from their time in the freezer but Steve doesn’t care. Not in the slightest. 

To prove it, he picks up a piece of bacon and happily chomps away, complimenting both of them on their skills in the kitchen. Jackson cheers gleefully, stealing a piece for himself as Eddie joins them on the bed, sandwiching Jackson between them, before swiping an oddly sliced bit of a banana. 

“Daddy burnt the toast,” Jackson says, watching with furrowed eyes as Steve tries to drag butter over the chared bread. 

“Hey,” Eddie whines, playfully nudging Jackson. “You said you weren’t going to tell him!” 

“S’hard not to tell him,” Jackson giggles. “It’s pretty dark.” 

“That’s okay,” Steve says, smiling as he carefully lifts the bread to his lips. “I like my toast dark.” 

Jackson wrinkles his nose as Steve takes a big bite that he instantly regrets. Still, he manages to chew and swallow it, chasing the dry and very burnt piece of toast with a big gulp of orange juice. 

Eddie sticks his tongue out, before lunging toward him, “Tickle Monster!” Jackson squeals, trying his best to scoot away from Eddie but Steve blocks him. The cup of orange juice nearly topples over in the process, but Steve doesn’t mind a bit of a mess as long as Jackson’s having fun. And judging by his laughing as Eddie tickles him mercilessly, he’s having tons of fun. 

“No fair! It’s my birthday, I want to be the Tickle Monster,” Steve says, a playful pout pulling at his lips. 

“There can never be too many Tickle Monsters,” Eddie says, moving his hands so his tickling efforts are focused on one side of Jackson’s belly. 

Steve carefully sets the mostly empty tray on the floor beside the bed before lunging at Jackson, joining in on the fun. Jackson’s laughs are loud and infectious, causing both Steve and Eddie to break out into giggles of their own as they watch him squirm beneath them. They keep it up until Jackson tells them to stop, respecting his wishes even when they’re playing like this. 

Once he calms down and catches his breath, he snuggles up between them again. It’s only a matter of seconds before his eyes flutter shut and his breathing evens out.

“I can’t believe you woke up so early just to make me breakfast,” Steve says, glancing at the clock. It’s twenty minutes passed Steve’s usual wake-up time now. Usually, he’d be out of bed, dressed, and working on tying his laces for his daily run, but there’s no way he’s moving right now. Not with a full belly and the warmth of his boys next to him. 

“Neither can I,” Eddie yawns, before smiling softly at Steve. “But it was worth it.” 

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” Eddie says, without any hesitation. “S’the least we could do. You’re always making our birthdays special figured it’s time we returned the favor.” 

“You always make my birthdays special,” Steve teases, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. 

“Might have to put a rain check on that gift this year,” Eddie teases. Steve playfully scoffs and reaches over a sleeping Jackson to nudge his shoulder. “Hey, it’s your fault I’m so tired! If you woke up at a normal hour, we wouldn’t have had to wake up so damn early to surprise you!” 

“You could have had breakfast waiting for me after I finished my run.” 

“Didn’t you hear Jackson? It’s the breakfast in bed part that makes it special.” 

“I’m just teasing,” Steve says, leaning over Jackson to steal a kiss from Eddie. It’s short and sweet, their questionable breakfast and morning breath lingering on their lips, but it’s the first kiss Steve’s ever gotten as a 36-year-old and that’s what really makes it special. 

“I know,” Eddie says, yawning again. “I love you.” 

“I love you too,” Steve says, letting his own body sink back into the warmth of the mattress. 

“You’re not getting up yet?” 

“I think I’ll stay here a little longer. Cuddle my boys,” Steve says, reaching his arm out across Jackson’s small body and towards Eddie’s awaiting hand. Their fingers curl around each other instantly. “Who knows, maybe at 36 I’ll finally learn to sleep in.” 

“Jesus H. Christ I hope so!” 

Steve can’t help but laugh and doesn’t even bother muffling it into the pillow because Jackson is just as deep of a sleeper as Eddie is. 

“Get some sleep, Eds.” 

“Happy birthday, Stevie,” Eddie whispers, practically slurring as sleep comes for him. 

True to his word, Steve stays in bed. He listens to Eddie and Jackson’s soft snores and watches their bodies rise and fall with each steady breath they take. He soaks it all in. The quiet stillness with his boys, the warmth radiating from them, and the love he feels so deep in his bones. It’s perfect. The best birthday morning he’s ever had. 

[glorious-spoon]

may i request “…casually” for the kiss prompts, if it inspires you? 🤗

- @buckactuallys

Hi, and thank you! Have some morning after sappiness, I hope you enjoy! ☺️

-

The bed is empty when Buck wakes up.

This isn't an unusual thing, actually; given the chance, he likes to sleep in. And a lot of hookups like to have some space the morning after: get showered, get dressed, start their days, make it clear that it's time for Buck to show himself the door without actually having to kick him out. He knows that whole song and dance by heart, and it doesn't bother him that much, usually.

It doesn't usually work like that when he sleeps over at Eddie's. Chris is an early riser, and while Eddie is hit or miss, he's not usually much good at staying quiet before he's got a cup or two of coffee in him. Buck has woken up more than a few times to the sound of Eddie stumbling into something in the kitchen and then cursing about it in a blurry, sleep-hoarse voice.

The thing is, usually when he sleeps over here, he sleeps on the couch.

Buck rolls over, squinting at the clock that Eddie keeps on his side of the bed. It's not actually that late; just past 8:30. The door is closed, and the room is full of hazy, diffuse morning sunlight. The walls are still painfully bare even a year after Buck helped Eddie patch and paint the smashed-up plaster, but there's a new rug on the floor, a handful of framed photos on the wall by the door. Mostly Chris, but there's one of Eddie and Buck there, from May's graduation party, draped in beads and hamming it up for the camera.

It makes Buck smile a little as he folds himself upright, but he's not sure where to go after that. He can hear noise coming from the kitchen: the clatter of dishes, soft conversation. Chris is home. And Buck is here, in Eddie's bed, clearly having spent the night there instead of on the couch. It's a little late now to try to sneak out, unless Eddie wants him to go out the window. And they really didn't talk about any of this last night. It seemed very distant then, with Eddie pressing him against the mattress, Eddie's mouth hot against his, the searing eagerness of his hands as he pulled Buck closer and touched him like he'd been thinking about it for a while, but now—

Now, Buck really wishes he'd thought to ask.

Footsteps in the hall. He freezes, and has a moment to be profoundly grateful that he pulled on a pair of sleep shorts last night, because there's a knock at the door, and then Chris ducks his head in without waiting for an answer. He does not seem surprised to see Buck there.

"Oh good, you're awake," he says. "Dad says breakfast is ready. He burned the first two pancakes, but the rest are fine."

"Oh," Buck manages, slightly airless. "I'll, um. I'll be there in a minute."

"Don't take too long, or you'll get stuck with the burned ones," Chris warns, and retreats back out of the room. Over the roaring in his ears, Buck can just hear his clear voice saying something to Eddie that includes his name.

He swings his legs off the bed, scrounges the t-shirt he abandoned on the floor last night, and gets up. His heart doesn't stop racing all the way down the hallway, but when he steps into the kitchen, Eddie glances up at him and smiles.

It's easy, that smile. There's none of the panicked regret Buck was fearing in it at all.

"Morning," he says. "You sleep okay?"

"Uh, yeah." Buck scrubs the back of his neck. Chris is in the dining room, setting the table for the three of them. On the counter next to the stove is a plate of pancakes covered by a dish towel to keep it warm; butter and syrup and orange juice for Chris are already out on the table. There's a full pot of coffee steaming fragrantly on the counter

There's Eddie, leaning over the stove to slide the skillet off the heat. He scrapes at the patch of spilled batter that scorched on the burner, then sets the spatula down and turns back toward Buck. He looks—he looks soft, a little bit sleepy still with his fluffy hair and his rumpled t-shirt. He looks like Eddie. The way he's looking at Buck isn't even new, now that he's paying attention to it.

"Can I, uh, can I help with anything?"

"Mostly all done," Eddie says, but he hands the plate of pancakes to Buck. "Here, take this to the table, I'll grab us coffee."

Then he cups Buck's cheek, leans up just a little, and kisses him briefly on the mouth, so sweetly casual that Buck kisses back without even thinking about it.

It feels different than kissing him last night, all that heat and urgency. It feels different than lazily making out in the sleepy afterglow. It feels—easy, comfortable, real.

"So we're really doing this, huh?" Buck asks, soft, when they finally break apart.

Eddie laughs under his breath and kisses him again. "Yeah. As long as you want to."

"I want to," Buck says, so fast that Eddie laughs again, louder, as he steps away.

"Still need to talk to Chris," he says, pulling out a pair of mugs.

"I think he, uh, I think he's probably figured it out," Buck says with a faint wince. He was in Eddie's bed this morning. Chris is definitely old enough now to read between the lines there. Though at least he didn't seem upset.

Eddie snickers. "Yeah. But I want to do this right. This is important." He glances at Buck again. "You're important."

"Oh," Buck says, helplessly warm.

"After breakfast," Eddie says firmly, passing Buck one of the coffee cups in his hand. Cream swirls through it, and the porcelain is warm. "Come on."

Buck takes a deep breath, nods, and follows him out into the sunlit dining room.

[shit-people-probably-didnt-say]

Any soft Wesper kid HC or prompts? I’ve always imagined Wespers kid as struggling to read just like Wylan and not fully understanding it. They just know that “Da reads everything for Dad” and growing up in a much healthier environment than Wylan they dont grow up with the same low self esteem issues and instead the idea that love is someone willing to read to you. They hope that in the future they find someone like that for themselves. IDK I’m a sucker for breaking they cycle lol

Aw Id love to share some soft Wesper Kid HCs!

Apologies for the delay in answering Ive had this in my drafts so I can build on it

- Wesper kid is an early riser and often wakes before his Dads, so the only sensible thing to do is bring his favourite book or toy and climb into their bed with them. They often spend the entire morning on off days just lounging in bed

- Swimming lessons! Being so close to canals and the harbour (and that swimming once saved his Pa’s life) having the Wesper Kid know how to swim and be confident in water is extremely important to them

- Ive always imagined if the Wesper kid had a cognitive disability it would be colourblindness or ADHD. Where his Da is the hyperactive sort he is the inattentive type and can struggle to sit for lessons without his mind wondering. So to help him they adjust his school day. They give him more frequent breaks in class and bigger gaps in-between lessons with lots of outside play, and they find tutors who teach in a very practical way to keep him engaged

- Wesper kids favourite animals are rabbits, little bit of Aditi coming to him. Jesper also sings Zemeni lullabies and reads him all his favourite stories from his childhood. Wesper kid becomes their ‘little rabbit’ and Grandma Aditi is well known in their home

- Ive love the idea that theres no shame or secret regarding Wylan not reading. Kids accept the world as it’s presented to them so he wouldnt think anything unusual of it. When it comes time to do homework or bedtime stories theres no hush-hush that only Da can read to him. But Wylan of course memorises bedtime stories and is Wesper kids go to for math/science homework

- Wesper kid has his Da’s energy and his Pa’s musical interest…which results in him wanting to learn the drums. Jesper is overjoyed, Wylan is of course delighted and supportive but makes a mental note to get ear plugs as a kid learning percussion can be quite overstimulating for autistic people

- As much as Wylan is dead set on gentle parenting that doesn’t mean it’s easy. When you’re brought up with harsh treatment and are used to that being ‘normal’, it takes daily conscious effort to break that cycle. He never ever lays a harsh hand or word on their son, but he does have to take time outs occasionally to gather himself on rough days. Its retraining mental instinct but he would do it a million times over for his son to feel safe and loved

- Wesper kid is asthmatic/anaemic like his Pa. Id love a fic of the first time the kid becomes really unwell with the flu or lung fever and Wylan & Jesper are just losing their minds. Luckily Nana Marya is there to help calm new parent worries and pass along some tips on soothing a poorly child

I may continue to add to this, but this is what I have at the moment 💕

[tip-top-cloud-surfer]

What is L-O-V-E? (Part 3) - Hangman

Pairing: Hangman / Bradshaw!Fem!OC (Lena) (Ex-Wife!OC)

Word Count: 3.9k

Warnings: Divorce and Separation; Angst; References to Child Custody Agreements; Arguing; Almost Physical Fights; Brief Reference to Cancer (Carole); References to Goose and Carole's Deaths; Female Bradshaw OC (Lena) and Named Son OC (Nickie)

This work, all of my works, and my entire blog is 18+ Only!

Summary: Tension comes to a head between Hangman and Rooster. Maverick gets involved. Lena gets trapped in memories of the past.

Master List

Part 1 Part 2

Jake was naturally an early riser and being in the Navy since he was eighteen only increased that tendency. Waking up before his alarm, Jake cracked his eyes open and let out a sigh as he stretched his back.

Nickie was drooling onto Jake’s shirt, absolutely knocked out, and happily curled up into his dad’s side. Jake was about to reach up to try and clean up some of the drool when he realized that his arm was somewhat immobilized. Looking over towards Lena’s side of the bed, Jake found her arm wrapped around his own with her lips brushing against the skin of his shoulder.

Taking in the arrangement for a moment, Jake simply sunk into bed and enjoyed the arrangement. The last time that he woke up to any sleeping situation that was remotely like this one was before Lena divorced him. Probably by a couple weeks, if not months. And Jake could really get used to waking up like this in the morning. He really could.

But, unfortunately, he still had to go to work.

Jake started by carefully lifting his arm away from Lena, who let go relatively easy. She shifted a bit, but remained asleep. And now came the harder part of the job—getting Nickie off of him without waking him up. Carefully shifting Nickie over, Jake rolled his son onto his side. Nickie let out a noise, but quickly found the warmth from his mom and shifted over.

With his family settled, Jake slipped out of bed and stood up. Grabbing his phone, Jake prepared to head over to the guest bedroom to dress for work. Looking back at Nickie and Lena for a moment, Jake paused and returned to the bed. Careful of his weight, Jake leaned over a pressed a kiss to Nickie’s forehead. He gently brushed his fingers over Lena’s hand before heading out.

Jake changed into his uniform and was about to head out the door when he glanced back at Lena’s bedroom. Jake stared at Lena and Nickie as they cuddled in the warmth of deep sleep for a moment. He took a quick look at his watch before walking into Lena’s office to grab two pieces of paper from the printer.

~~~~~

Lena woke up to her alarm going off. Reaching blindly for it, Lena paused for a second when she felt her hand press down on some folded paper. She managed to turn off her alarm before it woke up Nickie and pulled the piece of paper closer to inspect it. Squinting her eyes, Lena realized that it was a paper airplane.

Where the hell did that come from?

Lena slowly unfolded the pages of paper to reveal a letter. And she immediately recognized that small and square-shaped writing style. Careful to not wake up Nickie, Lena sat up a little bit in her bed and started reading through the note. But, of course, Nickie just seemed to sense that something was going on and started to wake up beside her.

“Mommy?” Nickie called, rubbing his eyes in that distinctly toddler way. “What’s that?”

“It’s a letter. From your dad,” Lena replied, brushing Nickie’s hair with her hand and pressing a kiss to the top of his head in greeting. “He had to go because of work.”

“When’s he coming home?” Nickie asked, starting to sit up.

“He didn’t say. He might be late, though. Apparently, they’re doing a lot of training today,” Lena explained to Nickie, setting aside the letter. “He’ll probably be home after dinner.”

“Okay,” Nickie sighed, sleepily leaning on his mom.

“Go back to bed, sweetheart. You’ve got an hour before you have to be up,” Lena replied with a light chuckle, rubbing her son’s back.

~~~~~

Jake was growing increasingly annoyed with his fellow squad members and their inability to adapt to the mission. Was the whole thing absolutely batshit? Yes. Was Maverick’s plan also absolutely batshit? Yes. But a mission was a mission. And Jake had every intention of getting the job done and coming back home in one piece.

And Rooster was really starting to piss him off beyond their normal level of contention.

Jake and Bradley had never really gotten along. Not before Jake started dating Lena. Definitely not while he was dating her. And not even when Jake married her and they had Nickie together. There was a brief period of compromise when Lena was sent for extra testing to see if she had the same disease that took Carole. But when all the tests came back normal, it was right back to fighting over everything.

And today was going to be no different.

Jake’s jaw ticked every single time that Rooster acted all high and mighty. Like a protector for the rest of the Dagger Squad as if they all weren’t grown ass adults who would have never made it this far in their careers if they couldn’t hold their own.

The only person that Rooster cared about was himself. He claimed to fight for the greater good, but he always had selfish intentions behind it. Rooster inserted himself into Lena and Jake’s marriage to ‘protect’ his little sister, even though Lena told him that she had it handled multiple times. He inserted himself into Nickie’s life, trying to be the father that Nickie already had. As if Jake wouldn’t have taken a bullet for either Lena or Nickie without even a second thought.

And now, Rooster was using that same façade to try and hide his personal vendetta against Maverick from the rest of the squad. Rooster wasn’t pushing back against Maverick because he cared about his fellow aviators. Rooster pushed back against Maverick because he wanted to prove Maverick wrong. To prove to Maverick that he was good enough. And Jake was sick of it.

“Why’re you dead? You’re team leader up there. Why are you, why is your team, dead?” Maverick demanded from Rooster, causing a small smirk to tug at Jake’s lips.

“Sir, he’s the only one who made it to the target,” Phoenix stated to Rooster’s defense.

“A minute late. He gave enemy aircraft time to shoot him down. He is dead,” Maverick insisted firmly.

“You don’t know that,” Rooster argued back.

“You’re not flying fast enough,” Jake snapped with an edge of amusement at his former brother-in-law. “You don’t have a second to waste.”

“We made it to the target.”

“And superior enemy aircraft intercepted you on your way out,” Maverick interjected, causing Rooster to whip around to face him.

“Then it’s a dogfight.”

“Against fifth generation fighters,” Maverick pointed out harshly.

“Yeah, we’d still have a chance.”

“In an F-18!”

“It’s not the plane, sir. It’s the pilot,” Rooster replied, a bit smugly.

“Exactly!” Maverick shouted.

A moment of silence passed while Rooster tried to respond and not lose his shit while doing it.

“There’s more than one way to fly this mission,” Rooster finally choked out, his voice breaking slightly.

“You really don’t get it,” Hangman drawled, his Texas twang coming out more. Lena always used to say that she could tell when he was either really annoyed or really happy based on how thick his accent came out. And he certainly wasn’t happy right now. “On this mission, a man flies like Maverick here, or a man does not come back.”

Hangman turned to Phoenix across the way and a smirk wormed its way back onto his lips. He and Phoenix had always been rivals from the second that they met. And hell, Jake did owe her one for keeping Rooster in check during his wedding to Lena. But right now? She was just another part of Jake’s deep-seated frustration with Rooster.

“No offense intended,” he stated, causing Phoenix to tilt her chin up.

“Yet somehow, you always manage,” Bob spoke up to his pilot’s defense.

“Look, I don’t mean to criticize. You’re conservative, that’s all,” Hangman continued, turning to face the front of the hangar again.

“Lieutenant,” Maverick warned, staring Jake down.

“We’re going into combat, son. On a a level no living pilot’s ever seen.”

It was then that Jake set his sights on the other man that he blamed for getting inside Lena’s head about their marriage—Maverick. He wasn’t nearly as vocal as Rooster was about his disapproval of their relationship. It was in the subtle stares that said something along the lines of ‘why did Lena pick you?’ that grated on his nerves. And the subtle digs about his skills as a pilot, since Maverick had access to all of those records.

So, in Hangman’s book, Maverick wasn’t exactly a friend when it came to his relationship with Lena.

“. . . Not even him,” Hangman continued, staring straight into Maverick’s soul.

Maverick frowned and turned back to Jake, but Jake was already turning to Rooster. And perhaps Jake was dramatic and perhaps he held a grudge and perhaps he needed to look inside himself a little bit more, but in that moment, Hangman was living out about seven years of built-up frustration with both Rooster and Maverick.

“That’s no time to be thinking about the past,” Hangman drawled calmly.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Rooster demanded defensively, turning to glare at Hangman.

“Rooster,” Maverick warned, hoping to avoid a fight.

“I don’t think that you want to start a conversation with me about the past, Hangman,” Rooster spat, which made the smirk drop from Jake’s face.

Sensing the tension building, the Dagger Squad members who had no idea what was going on shared confused, but nervous looks. Coyote and Phoenix locked eyes, both on the edge of their seats because they both knew just what history Rooster was threatening to talk about. Hangman’s dig had been vague, but that feral glare on Rooster’s face was sign of only one particular history.

Lena. Lena and Nickie.

And as soon as they got brought up, it was going to go nuke in that hangar.

“Right, because you always know best, don’t you, Rooster?” Hangman growled, deep in his chest.

“I know better than you,” Rooster snapped back.

“You would have stayed the fuck out of it if you knew better,” Hangman retorted, glaring straight into Rooster’s soul. “Worry about your own problems, Bradshaw.”

“Lieutenants!” Maverick demanded, trying to get their attention.

“It’s not like you were going to take care of them anyways, Seresin.”

That just seemed to uncork the years of pent-up frustration. All of the complaints and comments that Jake just swallowed down to keep the peace came bursting out. But, hell, between the mission and the fact that a life with Lena and Nickie by his side was dangled right in front of him the night before, Hangman snapped. And Rooster was right there with him.

The other Dagger Squad members leapt to their feet the second that Hangman and Rooster got to their feet. People were shouting and there was a lot of attempts to get in between Rooster and Hangman. Even Maverick and Hondo got involved. Coyote, Payback, and Maverick dragged Jake away from swinging at Rooster, who was just as pissed.

“Stay the fuck away from my son!” Jake snapped at Rooster, still fighting against the holds on him.

“Like hell I will!” Bradley growled back, just as pissed.

“You don’t think that I realize what the fuck you’re trying to do!?” Jake yelled back, trying to push forward. “Trying to turn him against me!? Turning Lena against me wasn’t enough for you!?”

“You did that yourself!”

“Fuck you, Bradshaw!”

“You were never there for her!”

“Yes, I was! You just refused to see it!”

“I protected my family!”

“They’re my family!”

“ENOUGH!”

The entire hangar quite literally shook from Maverick’s bellow. Everyone kept a tight hold on Rooster and Hangman, but there was a subtle draw of attention to Maverick. The captain glanced between Rooster and Hangman with a steeled expression that negated any personal affection that he held for either of them.

This wasn’t about Rooster or Hangman now. It was about Nickie, who was a little boy with more father figures that would fight to the death for him than he knew what to do with. Now, if only those father figures realized that they should be on the same team—Nickie’s team—instead of fighting among themselves like animals.

“Everyone else out. Hangman and Rooster stay,” Maverick demanded, gesturing to the exit.

He wasn’t Uncle Maverick or Ex-Father-In-Law Maverick anymore. No, he was Maverick, the man who swore to Goose to beat up any boy who caused Lena pain. And, in this case, those two boys just happened to be her older brother and her ex-husband.

And Mav wasn’t going to go easy on them. Not this time.

~~~~~

Lena walked down the hallway, letting Hondo stay a step ahead of her. She glanced nervously at the pictures on the walls and gripped her purse strap just a bit tighter. Top Gun always made her nervous. Even when Bradley and Jake graduated—separate occasions—from Top Gun, she never felt truly at ease on this base. Not with its history with the Bradshaw family.

“How bad was it?” she asked Hondo quietly, causing the warrant officer to pause briefly.

“Let’s just say, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Maverick yell like that before.”

“And hopefully you won’t have to . . . again,” Lena added with a whisper.

“They’re in there,” Hondo stated, gesturing to the classroom.

“Thank you, Hondo,” Lena replied softly, turning to the warrant officer. “And give your wife my best.”

With a nod, Hondo disappeared down the corridor. Taking a breath, Lena reached for the door knob and stepped into the room. The classroom was lit, but somewhat dimly, casting an odd glow around the room. As if she wasn’t already on edge.

Lena spotted Bradley first, sitting with a pout and his arms crossed over his chest. He was still dressed in his flight suit and Lena was relieved to see no bruises or cuts on his face. Jake was sitting on the other side of the room. He was angrily twirling a toothpick around his mouth and leaning far back in his seat with his legs spread and a dark expression on his face. He didn’t seem to be harmed either.

Maverick was leaning at the desk at the front of the classroom, looking as serious as Lena had seen him in a long time. That was an expression that he always reserved for whenever he was well and truly angry. And Maverick only got well and truly angry when someone was doing stupid shit and putting someone else at risk.

This was going to be a fun conversation.

“Where’s Nickie?” Jake asked, breaking the seemingly deadlocked silence.

“Babysitter,” Lena replied, turning to her ex-husband. Penny, to be more specific.

Glancing around the room, Lena set her purse on a desk and folded her arms across her chest. Staring down at her shoes for a moment, Lena finally picked her head up. She turned to Jake first, trying to assess his headspace. He stared at her evenly for a moment before dropping his head. She turned next to Bradley, who stared somewhat defiantly with his chin raised.

And then Lena put two and two together.

“How many times do we have to have this conversation?” Lena sighed, glancing in between Rooster and Hangman with a tired expression.

“One more time wouldn’t hurt,” Jake stated, causing Lena to round on him.

“Jake, just because we’re divorced and just because Nickie and I live a couple hours away from you, that doesn’t mean that I’m trying to keep you from Nickie. You’re his father. And whatever happens between us, you’re going to be in his life. I want you in his life. He wants you in his life. Stop trusting what everyone else says about my opinion about that.”

Jake lowered his head again, so Lena turned to face Bradley.

“Brad, stop fighting my battles for me. If I need your help, I will ask for it. I haven’t needed you to fight my battles for me in decades. Jake and I have our problems, but they’re our problems. Not yours. Just focus on being Nickie’s fun uncle. That’s all I need from you.”

“Are you sure?” Bradley asked, like he didn’t believe her.

“See?” Jake scoffed, gesturing over to Bradley.

“I can handle my brother, thank you,” Lena stressed to Jake before turning back to Bradley. “Yes, I’m sure.” Lena paused, glancing over at the photos of the past classes of Top Gun for a moment. “I know that Mom put you in charge of me, from an age that was far earlier than fair, but I don’t need you to be that for me anymore. I’m a big girl, Brad. I can take care of myself.”

Bradley still looked like he wanted to disagree, at least when it came to dealing with Hangman, but Maverick’s stern glare caused him to keep his mouth shut. With a simple nod, Bradley got to his feet. The Bradshaw siblings shared a brief hug before Bradley took his leave, probably more than eager to escape this awkward situation.

Turning to Maverick next, Lena offered him a small smile. Maverick’s annoyed and stern expression melted after a moment and he quickly relaxed. Standing up from the desk, Maverick walked over to where Lena was standing by herself.

“I think that I can take it from here,” Lena replied, glancing over at where Jake was still sitting in his seat. Turning back to Maverick, she offered him a wider smile. “Thanks for making sure that they didn’t kill each other.”

“Anytime,” Maverick stated, though he was talking more to Jake in that moment than Lena. “You know that I’m always here if you need something.”

“I know, Mav.”

Lena pulled Maverick into an appreciative hug before Maverick excused himself from the room. Lena watched Maverick walk off until the sound of his footsteps couldn’t be heard anymore. Then she slowly turned to Jake, who was already looking at her.

“Come on,” Lena spoke softly, grabbing her bag. “I think that we have some things to talk about.”

“Let’s pick up Nickie first,” Jake stated, causing Lena to pause.

“You really want Nickie to be around when we have a fight?” Lena asked quietly, causing Jake to shake his head.

“I don’t want to fight,” Jake corrected Lena, who paused for a moment. “I want to spend one of my last nights in Miramar with my son. With my family.” When Lena did not immediately reply, Jake added, “That’s all I want.”

Lena nodded slowly before turning to head out of the room with Jake right behind her. They walked slowly down the halls. Lena briefly paused at the small plaque by the front door, which was inscribed with the names of all of the service members who died on base, at Top Gun.

Jake stopped walking in time with Lena, knowing exactly what she was looking at. Whose name she was looking for. And it wasn’t hard to find. ‘Bradshaw’ was awfully close to the top of any list that was sorted alphabetically by surname.

Lena brushed her finger over her father’s name, the name that she gave her first born son and only child, to honor the man that she didn’t even truly remember. She had only been a few months old when Goose died, but yet, she still felt such a sense of loss every time that she saw his callsign.

Jake wordlessly reached out and grabbed Lena’s hand, bringing her back to the present. Turning to Jake, Lena blinked a few times before nodding slowly and heading for the exit. She didn’t move to remove her hand from Jake’s own until she had to reach for the door.

~~~~~

“Mommy! Daddy!” Nickie called, jumping up from his seat. He trotted over to Jake, who happily scooped him up and into his arms. “You’re here!”

“What? Did you think we were leaving you here forever?” Jake asked, setting Nickie on his hip. Ruffling Nickie’s hair, Jake turned to Penny, who smiled kindly at him. “Thanks for watching him.”

“Anything for Lena,” Penny replied, glancing over at the Bradshaw woman. “And Nickie.”

“We’ll get out of your hair. Tell Amelia that I say ‘hi’,” Lena responded, shooting Penny a thankful smile.

They stepped out of Penny’s office together and into the packed Hard Deck. Jake held Nickie protectively close with his arm wrapped around his son. Offering a hand to Lena, Jake pulled them through the crowd and towards the nearest exit.

About a half an hour later, the three of them were sitting on the sand on a blanket that Lena had tucked into her car’s trunk. The takeout that they ordered had been eaten and cleaned away, save for a few wrappers to throw out on their way back to the cars.

Lena was staring out at the waves as Jake talked about the last couple of days of training—the much safer and non-government secret version—with Nickie, who was up on his back. When Nickie let out a squeal, she quickly turned to inspect him for injury. But finding Nickie simply squealing because Jake was tickling him, she found herself unable to stop smiling.

“Not fair!” Nickie screeched, giggling and curling in on himself.

Jake rolled around so that he was on his back and Nickie was sitting up on his stomach. Lena couldn’t help but think about when Nickie was seemingly impossibly smaller, just barely able to pick his head up. And how Jake would come home after a long day at work and lay with Nickie on his stomach, entertaining his son and simply enjoying the moment. Of course, that was during some of the worst months of Jake and Lena’s relationship.

Turning back to the waves, Lena closed her eyes and focused on the distant sound of crashes, trying to not get too caught up in the darker memories. Jake and Nickie seemed to settle down after a few moments because Nickie called out to her.

“Mommy, are you sleeping?”

“No,” Lena replied, smiling over at her son. Glancing down at her watch, Lena sat up. “But we should probably be getting home soon.”

They gathered their belongings and headed back for the cars. Nickie requested to ride with Jake in his truck and Lena quickly urged them on before hopping into her own car. After a quick bath, Nickie was sent to bed and passed out when his head touched his pillow.

Closing the door behind him, Jake turned to see Lena staring up at him with her arms crossed over her chest and a serious expression on her face.

“We need to talk,” Lena spoke quietly, though firmly.

Jake nodded slowly, knowing that they did indeed have a lot to discuss, and followed her down the hall.

A.N. Sorry this one took a while to get out, but if anyone's still following it, thanks for reading!

Tag: @xoxabs88xox

[Just a friendly reminder to please have your age in your bio/pinned post if you want to be tagged in any of my works since my blog is 18+ Only. Thanks!]

[heroofshield]

Rating: Explicit

Warnings: Vaginal Sex, Cunnilingus, Edging, Arguments

Summary: The Puerto Rico tips draws to an end and things are said aka Anna feels Emotions and Doesn't Like It lol

@anderfels

--

Anna walked down the stairs and smelled the coffee brewing. It was their last day before they had to leave and she was pleasantly surprised to find that she almost didn’t want to go. “And not because of the stellar waves that have been happening.” she thought while pulling out a mug before pouring herself a cup. Her and James had mostly moved past the fight they’d had and focused on the remaining time they had left in Puerto Rico.

Taking a sip she stepped out onto the wooden deck, while already slightly missing the privacy that they’d had during the trip. The house was far enough from the town that there wasn’t a lot of traffic and while the beach was popular, they had nailed down the best times to go for walks without the worry about being seen. Only a few locals had asked James for a photo or an autograph, and those had been kids; to which James had gladly done so.

“Now if only it could be like that when we go back to Rio. It seems his N7 graduation put him back in the spotlight after it started to fade a little.” Anna told herself while sitting down in a deck chair to drink her coffee and watch the sun rise.

“You’re up early.”

Anna looked up to see Tony sitting down in the other deck chair across the table, “I’m usually an early riser. Habit from when I was in the Alliance during the war and now to check the waves.”

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say the same myself. Getting up early for morning reveille for thirty years makes it a hard habit to break.”

Anna smiled at the comment and watched as James’s uncle settled himself before saying, “James told me how you helped him and his Mamá after his dad…left. Must have been hard for him.”

Tony shrugged before taking a sip of his own coffee, “He needed a stabilizing force while my sister worked. Luckily I was able to be that.” He fell silent for a moment before saying, “Though after he left San Diego there wasn’t much reason for me to stick around there, that’s when I came down here.”

Taking a sip of his coffee, he set it down on the table while continuing, “Jimmy never mentioned how you two met. Only said that it was during the war.”

Read the rest on Ao3!

[halloweenhuh]

Halloween, Huh? Day 2 Reveals

Night Class - Rated E - 12,617 words Alex how found the simplest solution for all the facts he had been presented. There were plenty of them to make sense of. Alex was taking the path of least resistance, accepting that whatever remained after all was stripped away must be the truth. June could laugh at him for the rest of time if she wanted. He was right. He knew he was right. He had to be right because nothing else on earth or in the universe made sense.

Henry Fox — his smarmy, entitled, wealthy, bland, irritating neighbor — was a vampire.

Alex knew it. He could prove it.

.🎃🎃🎃.

Because I’m A Scoundrel - Rated E - 8,368 words Alex Claremont-Diaz has exactly thirty minutes to make himself look as slutty as possible for this Halloween Gala. At this very moment he looks a little bit like a sexed up pirate, but with the addition of his small black vest - rest in peace to the Patagonia packers and finance brethren- and a low slung belt with a “blaster,” a very sex-on-legs Han Solo is looking back at him.

Henry Fox, who is both a double scull rower with enough Olympic medals it would make anyone other than Alex sweat, and the definitive arch nemesis of Alex - is wearing a white sylvette Princess Leia costume, hugging his curves in all the right ways, the clingy fabric draping to the floor.

When you and your arch nemesis show up to the most important gala of the year in a couples costume you either play it up or shut it down. Alex has a decision to make, but the way that dress is hugging Henry’s ass isn’t making that decision any easier.

.🎃🎃🎃.

Trading Traditions - Rated T - 2,093 words Alex and Henry's first Bonfire Night together.

.🎃🎃🎃.

The great turkey calamity? - Rated T - 4,919 words And that’s how Alex finds himself, two minutes later, facing two turkeys and gaping at them like an idiot.

“So, Alexander,” Cornbread starts, “what seems to be the problem?”

“Aside from the fact that I’ve gone mad?”

“He means with Henry,” Stuffing says.

“There’s no problem with Henry,” Alex quickly clarifies. He’s not someone who does things half-assedly, so if he’s going to speak to a pair of turkeys about whatever they think Alex has a problem with, he’s going to commit to it. “We’re just–”

“Yes?”

“Friends?”

“If you’re friends,” Stuffing starts and Alex could swear his turkey voice is infused with sarcasm, “why were you pacing your room worried about whether you should call him or not?”

.🎃🎃🎃.

The Candy Tax - Rated T - 2,931 words Ten-year-old Alex has invited his new friend Henry, who just moved to Texas from England with his family so that his movie star dad can be based in the US to shoot more movies, over for a sleepover the night before Halloween.

.🎃🎃🎃.

if you're all alone, pick up the phone - Rated G - 485 words By the third time Alex calls, Henry is pretty sure the man is making things up.

.🎃🎃🎃.

Through the summer and the fall, we had each other, that was all

Rated G - 750 words The mountains are on fire. Red, orange, and yellow leaves cover thousands of acres of land, and the peeking of the sun over the distant horizon illuminates the hovering fog, creating the illusion of a persistent fire burning brightly without causing any damage. Instead, it paints a masterful landscape for an early morning riser to gaze at as he sips at a cup of Earl Grey and marvels at the fact that this beauty is a sight he has somehow been blessed to see.

.🎃🎃🎃.

A little note for all of our wonderful creators: if your work was revealed by the Palace today, please be sure to update your publication date to today’s date so it shows up fresh in the AO3 feed.

[tired-biscuit]

100% agree step brother kiba is so over protective even if he pretends he doesn’t care about you it’s a blatant lie because he’s the first one to have your back, always, when you’re in any sort of trouble

get into a fight with your dad and kiba’s the one who leaves food outside your door like “what you’re gonna starve yourself to death because your dad’s being an asshole? don’t be stupid”

you go to a party and some bad shit goes down, you know you can call him to come pick you up even if he bitches you out for it the whole way home

oh noooo having nightmares and he can hear you whimpering when he walks by your door in the middle of the night and he sighs and slips under the covers with you to calm you down. when you ask him to stay he complains but he does (he wasn’t planning on going anywhere anyway)

yes he’s annoying and rude but he loves you. even if he won’t admit to himself that he’s falling for his little step sister. it happens so naturally that he can’t picture his life without you in it anymore and he doesn’t really know how to balance his emotions so he takes it out on you and maybe he won’t apologize but he’ll get your favorite take out and shove it at you with a grunt

imagine those rare moments in the middle of the night when he’s sharing a bed with you and he’s actually nice and his voice is deep and sleepy when he talks, and he’s just sooo cozy and warm and gentle with you; squeezing you and cuddling with you in a platonic kind of way even if it’s not, at least not truly.

and because he’s an early riser, he’s always out of your room before you even get the chance to wake up. so by the time you brush your teeth and venture downstairs, he’s already back to being his usual mean self. when you try being nice to him like you were at one in the morning, he just gives you a dumb look and goes, “umm… okay?” as he’s eating his cereal even though his heart is skipping a beat and there’s warmth spreading inside his chest.

i think he doesn’t even realize that he’s falling for you until one of his friends mentions that you’re cute and he gets blinded with white-hot jealousy in a mere instant. and as soon as he figures out why that jealousy is there, that it’s not just him being a protective older brother, he finally understands that he’s fucked. completely, utterly fucked.

and he turns even meaner as a result.

[cherrycola27]

Until I Found You

Table 13

That's what the card in your hand read as you scanned the gala floor for your seat for the evening. Normally, most people would consider thirteen to be an unlucky number, but for you, it was the opposite.

Thirteen had been your lucky number for as long as you could remember, and maybe it would bring you some luck tonight during yet another Navy function you had to sit through alone.

It was one of the downsides of being a woman in the Navy, especially a fighter pilot. Many men found you intimidating, and it made it hard to find a serious relationship.

You gazed out at all the beautifully dressed women who were draped on the arms of handsome men, and for a fleeting moment, wished you had that.

You must have been lost in thought and not paying attention because the next thing you know, you're colliding with a man in dress whites.

He reaches out to catch you and make sure you're stable on your feet.

"I'm so sorry ma'am, wasn't watching where I was going." He apologized. You look up and meet the most beautiful honey brown eyes you've ever seen.

"Don't be sorry, I was the one who wasn't paying attention." You reply quickly.

"Are you alright?" He asks. "Yes, I'm fine, just looking for my table for the evening." You tell him smoothing out the front of your dress and taking in his features.

He's tall, over six feet for sure, broad shoulders, curly , golden-brown hair. He has a mustache that should have gone out of fashion in the eighties, but somehow, he makes it work.

"What table are you at? Maybe I can help you find it. It's the least I can do after running into you. Unless you have a date you're waiting on—" He trails off, you can tell he is looking over you just like you were him.

Suddenly, you're thankful you chose to wear the emerald green dress that made your strawberry locks pop.

You were also thankful for the tasteful slit and low back that left just enough to the imagination.

"No date, I'm flying solo, which is how I normally fly anyway." You chuckle out a laugh. God, you must sound pathetic. He quirks his eyebrow at you.

"Pilot?" He questions. "Yes. Single seater, so I literally fly solo." You say trying to recover.

"So do I." He tells you. "Well something we have in common." You grin, starting to calm down and recover from your awkwardness.

"And your table number?" He asks, gesturing to the small slip of paper in your hand. "Oh, um thirteen." You reply cooly.

"Something else we have in common. I'm at thirteen as well. Care for an escort?" He extends his arm to you, and you take it without hesitation.

"What's your name ma'am?" He asks as you make your way to the table

"Lieutenant Y/N Miller, but you can call me Georgia. That's my call sign." You tell him.

"Well, nice to meet you, Lieutenant Miller. I'm Lieutenant Commander Bradley Bradshaw, but you can call me Rooster." He replies as you two make it to the table. He pulls your chair out for you as you sit.

"Such a gentleman, your mother must have raised you right." You stare.

"She tried to before she passed." He replies.

"Oh, I'm sorry." You grimace, not sure what to say.

"It's fine." He smiles back at you. "So why do they call you Georgia?" He asks taking the seat next to you.

"Because everyone says I'm like a peach, sweet on the outside, tough on the inside. But I didn't want to be called 'Peach' for my call sign. I'm pretty sure that's a stripper name." He snorts out a laugh.

"So why do they call you Rooster? Does it have a PG meaning behind it, or is it a little more X-rated?" You ask, leaning closer to him and placing your hand on his leg. He chokes on his water, shocked by your boldness.

"Well—um—" He laughs and takes another drink.

"It's a bit of a nod to my dad. He was a RIO. He died when I was about two in a training accident. His call sign was Goose, with two Os, that was the joke he'd make. So I wanted to have something similar. Rooster has two Os, also I've always been an early riser, so it made sense" He explains as a blush creeps across his face.

"I'm not buying it." You say taking a sip of your water.

He looks at you confused. "Maybe that's what you tell people, but I don't think it's as PG as you make it out to be. I'll have to ask your date." You reply, leaning back into your chair.

"I'm flying solo tonight too ma'am" He replies with a smile.

"Well, look at us, two peas in a pod, huh?" You grin.

As the evening goes on the two of you swap stories and witty remarks. He learns that you've just transferred to San Diego to teach at Top Gun. He is internally excited that you'll be working together.

Later, after speeches are made and dessert has been served, a band plays, and a dance floor opens up.

"Care to join me?" He asks, extending a hand.

"I'd be delighted." You reply.

He's light on his feet as he leads you through a few songs. Suddenly, a familiar melody creeps into your ears.

"Georgia, wrap me in your all, I want you in my arms—" Rooster begins singing the beginning of the song to you softly.

You smile and chuckle at his actions as he spins you.

"So, why are you single?" He asks almost out of the blue.

"I'm in the Navy, fly fast planes, never in one place too long. Intimidates most men." You explained. He nods.

"What about you?" You counter. "You're handsome, polite, well mannered, can dance... how come no girl's scooped you up yet?"

"I've found that a lot of the women I've tried to date don't want anything serious with me. They want a cool story to tell their friends. And I don't want that. I want a love like my parents had. I want to be in love with someone so much it hurts." He tells you.

"My mom, even after my dad died, never remarried. I asked her about it one time, and she told me it wouldn't be fair for her to try and love someone else because she could never be IN love with them. My dad was it for her. If I can find something like that, then maybe I won't be single." He finishes.

"That's beautiful." You say as the song finishes and you break apart. You notice the time on a clock on the wall. "Wow, it's getting late." You say.

"Yeah, it is, can I walk you to your car?" Rooster asks you.

"Actually, I'm staying here at the hotel. But you could walk me to my room. Not for that reason!" You tell him quickly as he smirks.

"But, I have enjoyed your company tonight, Mr. Bradshaw and I'd like a few more minutes of your time." You clarify.

"Of course." He states as you grab your things. He walks with you out of the ballroom and to the elevator. You punch in your floor number and wait in comfortable since until the bell chimes.

The two of you walk down the hall until you reach your door.

"Well, this is me." You say turning to face him.

"Georgia, I hope I'm not being too forward—" Rooster begins, "but I've had a great time with you this evening. Could I have your phone number so I could take you on a real date sometime?" He asks you almost shyly.

"Of course you can." You tell him. He quickly hands you his phone, and you type in your number. You send a quick text to yourself so you have his.

"And what do you mean by a 'real date', that's what I thought this was?!" You laugh and lightly push his chest.

"What makes you think this was a real date?" He asks laughing with you.

"Well, I mean, dinner, dancing, drinks, great conversation, and you walked me home. Here I was thinking I was going to get a goodnight kiss. Guess I was wrong about that." You laugh again.

"Well, when you put it that way, it does sound like a real date." Rooster smiles at you.

"So, is that goodnight kiss still on the table then?" You ask, looking up to meet his eyes.

Rooster doesn't answer, instead he places his hands on your waist and gently leans down to kiss you.

The kiss is sweet, slow, and romantic.

You both pull away breathless and smile at each other.

"Goodnight, Rooster." You tell him as you open your door.

"Goodnight, Georgia. I look forward to our second real date." He says before turning and walking down the hallway.

"Bradshaw, what's got you so giddy this morning?" Hangman asked Rooster as the two of them walked into the briefing room the next Monday morning. The Daggers would be getting their new class and co-teacher assignments for the next group of Top Gun recruits today. Rooster had been looking for you all morning on base.

"Nothing Hangman. Just had a good weekend is all." Rooster replied, quickly taking a seat.

"Had fun at that gala, huh?" Jake asked with a teasing smile on his face.

"You end up taking a pretty girl home?" Ha asked Rooster.

"No, but I did get a beautiful woman's phone number, and if I'm lucky, she'll be my co-teacher" Rooster informed him.

"Rooster, you sly dog." Jake smirked.

You quickly made your way down the hall to the briefing room you had been directed to. You were getting your first assignment as an official teacher here at Top Gun, and you were extremely excited. You were also hoping to see Rooster again today. The two of you had been texting all weekend, and you had plans to go out with him and some of his friends tonight at the Hard Deck. However he made it clear that this was not your official first, or second date, but a chance for you to meet and get to know everyone, and he also let you know that he had full intentions on taking you out, for real, he said.

You slipped into the room and scanned the group of pilots and WSOs. There were a few women, but not many. Soon, you spotted a set of familiar brown curls.

You walked over to where he sat and tapped him on the shoulder. "Excuse me? This seat taken?" You ask. He looks up to meet your gaze, and a smile instantly spreads across his face. "For you? Never." He replies before you sit down.

You can hear the hushed whispers of what you can assume in one of his friends teasing him.

The man at the front of the room, Captain Mitchell, or Maverick, as you would later learn, rattles off assignments for the group.

"Lieutenant Commander Bradshaw, you'll be working with Lieutenant Miller. She's new to us from the East Coast, and I trust that you will show her the proper way things are done around here." Maverick explains.

"Yes, sir... I'll do my best." Rooster assures him.

"I'm sure you will Rooster." His friend from earlier cackles out.

That night, you met the rest of the Dagger Squad, including the other pilot from earlier, Hangman. You got along well with everyone, which made Rooster happy. The thought that someone he was interested in getting along with his little found family made everything so much better.

That weekend, he took you out on a real date just as he had promised.

That real date turned into several more. Three months later, you were curled up with him in the couch in his apartment when you said it.

"I love you, Bradley." You stated, cupping his face in your hands.

You had used his first name, so he knew you really meant it.

"I love you to Y/N." He spoke back earnestly before kissing you and taking you to bed to show you that he did infact love you.

From then on, everything seemed to flow naturally between you and Rooster.

A week later, against the advisement of Hangman, Coyote, and Fanboy, you were moving in. But Rooster didn't listen to them, he didn't care what they had to say. He knew in his heart he had found the kind of love his mom talked about. He knew you were the one for him.

Three weeks after you moved in, your family came out to San Diego. Your father was a three star admiral, and your mother was a retired captain. They wanted to see how you were settling in at your new position.

Your parents and your brother immediately took to Rooster and loved him almost as much as you did. You didn't know it, but on the visit, Rooster had asked for your father's blessing, and he had gladly given it to him. He told Rooster he had never seen you so happy before.

From the day you met Rooster to the day he proposed to you, you had known each other seven months.

You had no clue it was coming. He had truly taken you by surprise.

You had spent the day shopping and getting mani pedis with Phoenix and Halo. The three of you had become close as the only women instructors.

When you arrived home that evening, Rooster was nowhere to be found. Instead, a bouquet of peach roses and a note greeted you.

You read the note that Rooster had left, which directed you to get ready for a special date and make sure you wear the new dress he had laid out for you.

You tumbled up the stairs giggling. Once in the bedroom, you noticed a beautiful emerald green dress, and some golden sandals were waiting for you.

After quickly refreshing your makeup and doing your hair, you changed into the outfit.

Moments later, your phone chimed with a text from Rooster, letting you know he was downstairs waiting for you.

He was leaning against the side of the Bronco, waiting for you when you came down the stairs.

"Georgia, you look—amazing" He greeted you before helping you in the car.

The ride to dinner was quiet, but a comfortable quiet.

The two of you ate at a new Italian restaurant on the water. After dessert, Bradley had insisted the two of you go for a walk to watch the sunset. You had happily agreed.

Now here you were walking hand in hand along the sand as the sun sank down and painted the sky a beautiful pink and orange.

"Georgia," Rooster began as the two of you stopped.

"Yes Rooster?" You replied facing him.

"I never thought I would meet anyone like you. Someone who was smart, funny, kind, beautiful. Someone who wanted me for me. Someone who didn't care that I wasn't perfect. Honestly, I never thought I would find someone who loves me the way you do." Bradley explained as he took your hands in his.

Tears sprang into your eyes as you realized what was happening. "Bradley I—" but he cut you off before you could finish.

"If you had told me seven months ago that a chance meeting at a Navy gala would have led me to meeting my soul mate, I would have told you that you were crazy, but now, I'm so thankful that it did." He smiled at you as some stray tears slipped down your face. Rooster knelt down in front of you.

"Georgia, that night I told you that I would never fall in love until I found someone to love like my parents loved each other. And when my mom told me about that kind of love all those years ago, I never understood what she meant by it. Until I found you. Then suddenly, everything she ever said made sense. So, Georgia, Y/N, will you marry me?"

You couldn't stop the tears from falling at his words.

"Yes!" You breathed out. "Yes, Bradley, I'll marry you!" You beamed. He rose up from the sand and kissed you before placing the ring on your hand.

You held it up and admired it. It was a simple round cut diamond set in a gold band. I was a classic, elegant piece. The most beautiful thing you had ever seen.

"It was my mother's." He tells you. "Bradley—" you gasp as he pulls your hand to him and kisses it.

"Before she died, she made me promise that I would keep it and give it to the next Mrs. Bradshaw. I always knew that I whoever I gave it to would have to be someone just as special as she was. She— they would have loved you, honey." He tells you.

His words have you crying even harder now as he pulls you in for another kiss.

You break apart and smile at him. The two of you walk back to his car as the sun dips below the horizon.

You travel back to the Hard Deck, where a celebration is waiting for the two of you. Everyone is so excited and happy for the two of you.

Maverick almost loses it when Rooster tells him that he gave you Carole's ring. "There's no one more deserving of it, Kid." He says before hugging you tightly.

As the night winds on, Rooster beckons you over to the piano. He takes a seat on the bench and pulls you into his lap.

His fingers dance across the keys before a familiar melody, one you know all too well, fills the room.

You sigh as fresh, happy tears slip out of the corner of your eyes. You lean back against Rooster as his voice fills the bar. Your smile stretches from ear to ear as you look at him while he sings, happier than you've ever been.

"Oh I used to say 'I would never fall in love again, until I found her'

I said, 'I would never fall, unless it's you I fall into'

I was lost within the darkness, but then I found her

I found you"

Eeek! I hope everyone enjoyed this! This is the first of my contributions to @roosterforme 's love is in the air challenge! I hope you all enjoyed this piece inspired by "Until I Found You"

Tag List: @dreamingathighaltitude @shanimallina87 @luckyladycreator2 @mak-32 @katieshook02 @samhapner6 @rosiahills22 @thedroneranger @roosterforme

[up-to-some-good]

Happy Fathers' Day everyone! Written for @jilymicrofics prompt June 18th - enough

Lily had always been pleased with herself for marrying a man who could cook as well as she could, if not better. It meant that she had never had to worry about dinner if she hadn't sorted it out because James would do it without question.

On top of that, when Harry was born James had decided to quit the Aurors to be a stay at home dad, taking on all the household chores including cooking as part of his job. He loved waking up early in the morning to make her a pack lunch for work, adding charmed love notes which would turn into butterflies and flitter around her as soon as she'd finished reading them. Even more than that, he loved cooking with Harry, especially in the mornings when they were both sleep-ruffled and yawning, frying eggs and baking between sips of coffee. Because of their morning routine, they now had an eight year old who could cook a variety of breakfast foods and refused to eat anything as simple as cereal when he woke up.

All of this had cumulated in Lily's current situation: watching Harry mix up his eighth batch of pancake batter at six o'clock on a Sunday morning. It was Fathers' Day, and Harry had been scheming with Lily for weeks to make his father breakfast in bed. Knowing full well that he couldn't use the stove without supervision, he'd woken his mother up at 4.30am to get started. She was now on her third cup of coffee and every counter in their small kitchen was covered in stacks of pancakes. She watched Harry pull out a new plate on which to stack his latest batch and sighed.

"Harry, love, don't you think you've made enough pancakes?"

He looked up at her with wide eyes and pushed his glasses up with finger, smearing pancake batter onto the frames.

"Dad likes a big breakfast," he said. "I don't want to run out too soon."

She chuckled a little as she looked around at the countless pancakes filling their kitchen.

"I don't think that'll be a problem, Haz."

He bit his lip as he took a look around before turning back to the pan and pouring in another round of batter.

"Maybe just a few more," he muttered.

Lily groaned and lay down on the counter. There was no point in arguing with him, she knew from bitter experience. Harry would keep making pancakes until he had decided they had enough, no sooner.

She heard a deep breath of laughter from the doorway and then felt her husband's warmth behind her. He pulled her up gently and pressed a kiss to her forehead and she leaned against him.

"Morning, Evans," he whispered right by her ear.

"That's Potter to you," she muttered back. "Will you please tell your son that we have enough food to feed the whole of Hogwarts so we can be done with the cooking?"

Harry, who had been completely absorbed in flipping pancakes for the last few minutes, finally turned around when he heard his mother's voice.

"Dad!" He pointed the spatula accusingly at James. "You're supposed to be in bed!"

James moved over to ruffle Harry's hair and turn off the stove.

"Sorry, kiddo. Can't help that I'm an early riser," he responded. "But by the looks of it, I woke up just in time for a wonderful breakfast. Why don't you go set the table, and I'll chop up some strawberries to have with our pancakes?"

Harry nodded and headed towards the door, before pausing for a moment and turning back around. He ran directly into his dad, nearly knocking him over as he jumped into his arms for a hug, James just barely catching him.

"Happy Father's Day, Dad," the little boy mumbled.

James squeezed him a little tighter for a moment before he whispered his response.

"Love you, kiddo."