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uramilf · 1 year ago

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Mutual Attraction - Part One

University chemistry professor!Matty x reader

A/N: As a triple science student I feel partially qualified to write this lol

Warnings: No smut in this part but mentions of sex, there will be smut in later parts, age gap relationship, teacher/student relationship, making out, mentions of weed and alcohol, smoking

Y/N Y/L/N stepped into the lecture hall with shaking hands. Usually on first days at school, there was at least the comforting thought that it was everyone else’s first day too, but this wasn’t the case. A burst water pipe in her student housing meant that Y/N was late to move in, therefore late to start university. She considered herself to be late already, after having four years of work and travel after leaving secondary school. Now, at 22 years old, she felt ready to start her new chapter. Her eyes fell upon him immediately as he sat at his desk typing an email. His dark curls were streaked with grey, a thin layer of stubble growing on his sculpted jawline. He was wearing clear-rimmed glasses that gave him a knowing and mature charm, which was lessened slightly by the boyish smile he gave Y/N as she approached his desk. “Excuse me, sir. Are you professor Matthew Healy?” she asked. “Yes, but please, all my students call me Matty. Professor makes me sound old,” he grimaced. Y/N laughed politely and introduced herself. Matty noticed that she was a pretty girl, with kind eyes and a beautiful smile. He tried not to think too much about it, mind returning to the matter at hand. “Ah, yes! I got an email this morning to say you’d be joining us slightly late. I hope the problem with your housing was fixed?” “Yep, I’m all moved in now. Sorry to bother you, I just wanted to check I was in the right room.” “No worries, Y/N. Take a seat anywhere you like, I hope you enjoy your first class with us.”

As Y/N neared the back of the lecture hall, she met the gazes of a few of other students who had arrived even earlier than her. A group of them waved her over. There were three of them sitting together: Rhys, who was a tall athletic boy with wavy blonde hair and deep green eyes who was studying chemistry to one day develop his own brand of protein powder. His friends back home in Wales called him ridiculous, but agreed he was going rather far to achieve his goals, so supported him in his business venture. Orla, who had moved from Cork to London and was studying to be a medicinal chemist. Her parents were extremely proud of her choice of career, but hadn’t seen her in person in a few months. She wasn’t worried about this as it had given her plenty of time to dye her hair blue, get a collection of tattoos littered around her hips and lower back, and venture into her favourite form of medicine (marijuana, which she liked to pretend was to help with her joint pain). And Jasmine, an African American girl from New York City whose real future plans involved becoming a music producer, but didn’t have the heart to tell her parents, after her outstanding performance in chemistry throughout high school won her a scholarship to the very course she was currently sitting in.

It was Jasmine who noticed Y/N first and, ever the social butterfly, called her to sit with them. “Hey! You’ve not been here the whole time, have you?” “No, I’m just starting today.” “Ok thank God, I’d never forgive myself if I hadn’t noticed you.” Y/N laughed. Rhys stood up to allow Y/N into their row of seats, shaking her hand as she passed. “Sorry for Jasmine,” he grinned. “She feels the need to know everything about everyone.” “Do not!” “You absolutely do!” Orla started to introduce herself as her friends bickered. “Yes, Jasmine is nosy as fuck, but Rhys and I are glad to have her. She’s the reason we’ve all made friends so quickly, her being the biggest extrovert ever and all that.” Y/N chatted to the trio as she fired up her laptop and others filtered into the class. She felt more comfortable seeing that the lecture hall was full of people of all ages, some older than her. Rhys was in his early twenties too, and she agreed with being thankful for Jasmine that she was making some friends who knew what it was like to start uni a bit later.

Matty stood up and started to speak, going through his powerpoint about redox reactions and reducing agents. Y/N was mesmerised by him; the way he paced as he taught, the way he scattered silly jokes throughout his lecture, the way he pointed to the screen as he made a point. The lecture flew by and before she knew it, Y/N’s new friends were begging her to join them for a coffee in the students hub across the road. “Maybe I’ll pop in later, but right now I have to speak to Matty.” Rhys, Orla and Jasmine left the hall, and Y/N overheard Orla say, “Fuck but he’s gorgeous, isn’t he?” Y/N couldn’t help but agree, and took a deep breath to steady herself before approaching Matty’s desk once again. “Miss Y/L/N! I hope you enjoyed your first lecture with me?” “Oh, absolutely! I’ve been looking forward to getting started.” “I’m so glad to hear it, sweetheart. Is there anything I can help you with?” “Actually, yes. I haven’t had a chance to pick up a textbook yet, and I was wondering if you know of anywhere I could look for a second hand one.” Matty thought for a moment, before shrugging. “You know what, darling, I’ll only be teaching out of this one for a month or so. It’s sort of the beginner book to recap A-Level topics. I have a spare one at home. If you’ll come in a little early next lesson I’ll give it to you.” “Really? That’s so kind of you.” “Absolutely, love. Let’s say you come in about half an hour early next time and we’ll go over what you’ve missed, yeah?” Y/N was ecstatic that Matty had asked her to come early to talk to him. Sure, it was a catch-up session, but still. She left feeling like a giggly schoolgirl with a crush on her teacher, trying to justify her thoughts by telling herself they were both adults, and there was nothing wrong with how she felt. Matty himself hadn’t missed the glimmer in her eyes while they spoke. He had been trying not to let himself get distracted by the soft curve of her breasts, or the way her hips moved as she walked away. She was gorgeous up close, and the more he thought on it after she had left the more he had to try to keep himself grounded. “She’s a student, for fuck’s sake,” he muttered to himself. “Don’t be a dick.”

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Y/N was back in her flat staring at Matthew Healy’s facebook profile like an obsessive teenager, heat rushing to her face when she saw the word ‘single’ in his info. She scrolled through his posts for a minute or two, smiling at videos of him dancing with his mates on nights out and holiday photos where he was grinning with a drink in his hand. That smile. Ugh.

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Unaware of Y/N’s light social media stalking, Matty was sipping on a pint with his best mate George in a quiet beer garden near his house, a cigarette hanging loosely from his lips. The September breeze moved his curls gently against his forehead as George spoke, but Matty wasn’t really listening, “All I’m saying is that you should try and get yourself back out there. You haven’t even been on a single date in forever.” “Actually, I met a girl today and I think we really hit it off,” Matty blurted out without thinking, just to get his friend off his back. Fuck. “Weren’t you at work all day? Better not be a student, Matthew,” George teased. “What?” Matty snapped his head up to look at George. “Calm down mate, it was just a joke.” “Oh. Right. Um, no, I met her in a coffee shop this afternoon. I don’t know, it probably won’t come to anything, but I’m gonna see her again soon.”

The minute his front door closed, Matty groaned into his hands. Why couldn’t he ever keep his mouth shut? Now George thought he had a girlfriend, and would no doubt want to meet her. There was no way he could tell George that this mystery girl didn’t exist, and the one he had met was really a new student in his chemistry lectures. This was a fucking disaster.

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Three days later, on Thursday morning, Y/N made her way into Matty’s usual lecture hall 30 minutes early. He was waiting for her, sitting at his desk. He had moved another chair to a space right beside his, gesturing for Y/N to take a seat. His cheeks went slightly pink when he handed her a cup of coffee, saying “I thought you might want this, what with it being so early and all.” “That’s so thoughtful, Matty. How much do I owe you?” “Oh, nothing, please. My treat.” Y/N’s heart was pounding in her chest, but what she didn’t know was that Matty’s was doing the same. He started to talk her through what she had missed in the first week, stammering slightly when their hands brushed as he turned a page in the textbook. Y/N tried, but she couldn’t look at the book as he spoke. She looked in his eyes instead. She could see the whole world in them. She had noticed as she had been getting to know him that they were some of the most beautiful eyes she had seen in a long time.

Before long their time was up and other students were filtering into the classroom, including Jasmine, Rhys and Orla. Matty started to wrap up his summary, not before exclaiming, “Oh for God’s sake, I’ve left that spare textbook in the car. I’ll get it after class, ok?” He tried to convince himself he hadn’t done it on purpose to talk to her again, but he just couldn’t.

Jasmine was enjoying a brief interrogation regarding Y/N and Matty’s conversation. “You’re telling me he just asked you to come in here and talk to him for a whole half hour? Fuck, why didn’t I start a week late?” “Stop that Jas, you’re nineteen! You’re much too young for him. And so is Y/N,” Rhys scolded. “Are you serious? Y/N is the perfect age to have a scandalous little romance with him.” “She is not, that would be irresponsible and ridiculous. She doesn’t like him anyway, do you Y/N?” “Go suck off your personal trainer, Rhys,” Orla jumped in, feeling as though Rhys was being a little protective over Y/N, although they barely knew each other. “Actually Y/N, Rhys poses a valid question. What’s your opinion on the absolute sexiest lecturer I’ve ever laid eyes on?” Jasmine prompted. “Oh, y’know, just that I might be in love with him.” Jasmine cackled at the look on Rhys’s face and replied “That’s my girl.”

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When the hour-long class was over, Y/N once again allowed the rest of the students to leave before meeting Matty at the front of the room. “Let’s go get you that book, sweetheart. Couldn’t have such an excellent student failing now, could we?” The pair walked out of the building together, Matty digging in his coat pocket for a packet of cigarettes and a lighter. “Do you mind if I smoke?” “Not if you give me one.” “I couldn’t possibly condone that, darling,” he smirked. “I’ll give you a drag of this one if you promise not to tell.” He lit the cigarette and took a few deep drags before handing it off to Y/N. He watched her pouty lips as she exhaled the thick smoke, trying not to imagine what it would be like the kiss them right then and there. He took the cig back and inhaled again, throwing it on the ground and extinguishing it with his heel as they reached his car. He unlocked it and grabbed the book from the back, handing it to Y/N. The second their fingers brushed against each other, the light spits of rain that had been building all morning turned into a torrential downpour. Matty and Y/N looked at each other and laughed for a moment, at the awfully cliche ‘caught in the rain’ scenario, until Matty realised they were both soaked to the skin and ushered Y/N into the car. “Shit, where did that rain even come from?” Matty laughed. “Where’s your flat? I’ll take you home.” Y/N froze. Matty was offering her a lift home? Fuck, she was never getting over her stupid crush on her teacher now. “Y/N? Do you not want a lift home? I can drop you at the tube station or something, I understand if you’re not comfortable with me taking you home.” “No! It’s totally fine! I really appreciate it. I live on Elmwood Avenue.”

When Matty arrived outside Y/N’s building, he parked the car and they sat there for a moment or two, trying to think of something to say. She could feel him looking at her, and she thought he was probably just waiting for her to get out of the car. “Well, thanks again, I should probably g-” Matty cut her off by crashing his lips against hers. She just sat there, not quite knowing what to do. She wanted to kiss him back, she knew she did, but she was frozen. He pulled away, embarrassed. “Jesus, Y/N, I’m so sorry, I never should have-” It was her turn to cut him off now by placing a hand over his mouth and giggling. “Don’t you dare be sorry,” she whispered, before pulling him closer by his black tie and pressing her mouth to his again. Y/N could feel Matty smile into the kiss as she tangled her fingers through his dark brown curls with one hand. The other hand cupped his stubble-covered jaw as their lips moved together. One of his hands was clutching at her waist and rubbing circles into her hip with his thumb, the other brushing her hair out of her face. He slipped his tongue into her mouth and she let out a quiet moan, making him laugh. Their tongues fought for dominance for a few minutes until Matty broke the kiss briefly to grab Y/N’s waist and tug her over the centre console to straddle him. He kissed her again as he gripped onto her hips, both her hands gripping his face now. After a few more minutes of kissing him, Y/N pulled back and looked him in the eyes. “I really do have to go now,” she laughed, stroking the side of his face lightly. Matty melted into her touch and dropped his head down to place a trail of kisses to her jawline and neck. Y/N groaned quietly. “Stop, Matty, you’re making it so hard for me to leave right now.” “Don’t leave, stay with me.” Y/N rolled her eyes and climbed off his lap, opening the car door and stepping out. “I’ll see you in class, then,” Matty sighed.

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Y/N couldn’t stop thinking about what he had said. “I’ll see you in class, then.” It made her feel dirty, and sneaky, but in the best way. She wondered how long she could keep her own scandal quiet. Sure, she would’ve loved to tell Jasmine, but Jas would never keep her mouth shut and she wasn’t sure if Matty would get in trouble if people found out. Y/N knew there were no laws against university professors and students having relationships, as long as the student was of age, of course. Which she was. But a part of her couldn’t help but feel that she was putting Matty in danger. Maybe she would’ve been better off staying away from him.

Back in his own house, Matty was drunkenly pacing the floor, freaking out. One part of him was thrilled that Y/N seemed to share his feelings, and the other knew that if he didn’t tell his boss about their interaction, he could lose his job. And although it was allowed, she was twelve years younger than him, and he knew their relationship would be frowned upon by many of his co-workers and other students. Well, maybe not so many students. Matty wasn’t stupid, he knew he was quite a hit with many people in his chemistry lectures, girls and boys alike. But either way, it would be hard for him and Y/N to be together. She would have to switch classes, and he wouldn’t be able to see her pretty face staring up at him during lectures, mesmerised by his voice. Matty’s heart sank. He had gotten what he wanted, but was it worth it?

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A week later, Y/N’s chemistry class had gathered in Matty’s lecture hall once again. As they were split up into groups to work on a project, she had to fight the urge to not tell her friends about what had happened in Matty’s car. He was much the same, trying his best not to let it slip to George, although he so wanted his friends to know about the amazing, beautiful girl he had met. Y/N told her friends once again that she needed to stay behind and talk to Matty. Rhys raised an eyebrow and Orla and Jasmine nudged each other. “What now?” Y/N snapped. “You’re spending an awful lot of time in here ‘catching up’. Aren’t you all caught up by now?” “Oh, em, yeah, of course. It’s not about that. It’s just about the project.” “Well, is it anything we could help with?” Rhys asked, clearly trying to prevent further interactions with Matty. “Oh, leave her alone Rhys! If the poor girl fancies Matty, just let her speak to him. We all have our little teacher crushes, right Jas?” Orla shot back. “Whatever,” Rhys muttered and stood up, grabbing his bag and storming out the door. “Jesus Christ, someone’s got a mard on,” Orla said, rolling her eyes. “Ignore him, he’s just being a dick because he doesn’t understand the Lana Del Rey-esque attraction we have to older men.” We laughed until we reached the front of the room, and the two girls left me to chat to Matty alone.

“Hey, darling, you ok?” Matty smiled softly. “Yeah. I just thought we should talk.” “You’re right, we should. The truth is, love, I don’t think we should take this any further.” He watched Y/N’s eyes widen, giving her a pained expression. It hurt him too to turn down a girl so perfect, but he knew what he had to do. “Look, Y/N. I like you. I really do. From the moment you walked in here, I knew it. You are beautiful. You’re kind and smart and you make me laugh. You’re perfect, love.” “So why don’t you want me?” Y/N asked in a small voice. “I do darling, I promise. But you shouldn’t want me. Having a relationship with someone older than you, especially one of your lecturers, will not make university an easy experience for you. Other teachers might start to treat you differently. You would have to move classes, and everyone would know why. Your peers might look down on you. I don’t want any of those things for you, my beautiful girl. You deserve more than me.” Y/N’s heart was sinking. He had to be wrong. She needed him. She needed him to forget the consequences and just love her like she wanted him to. A tear slipped down her cheek and Matty wiped it away. “Don’t cry, love. I’m sorry. But if we start a relationship with each other, the only law is that I have to tell my boss. And that will only create problems for both of us.” Y/N lifted her head to look at the man in front of her, his glasses slightly askew, hair a mess from how many times he had run his hands through it during his little speech to her. God, she needed him.

“So don’t tell him then.”

Matty looked at Y/N and saw the lust and the neediness in her eyes. He grabbed her by the hand, convinced that he could feel her blood pulsing through her body when they touched. He pulled her into his small store at the back of the hall and pushed her up against the wall. Much like the week before, his hands roughly grabbed at her hips as he connected their lips. His tongue was immediately brushing against hers, his teeth nipping at her bottom lip every so often. This kiss was more passionate, more desperate than the one in the car. Matty broke the kiss to bend down slightly and pick Y/N up, her legs tightening around his waist as they kissed again. One hand stayed on her ass, supporting her weight, while the other roamed up and down her back. Both of hers were caught in his hair again. She tugged gently on his hair, forcing a soft moan to leave his lips, which she eagerly swallowed the sound of. Their kissing grew messy, both desperate for each other. But they knew they couldn’t have each other- not there. Matty pulled away and lowered Y/N to her feet. Their lips were swollen and glistening with wetness, and Matty’s eyes appeared to have darkened so much that his irises were nearly black. He devoured the sight of Y/N in front of him, wishing he had the guts to take her right then and there. But he couldn’t. It was irresponsible, basically asking to be caught. Plus, he would make their first time special.

Y/N checked the time on her phone and groaned. “Shit, I’ve missed the tube! I’m gonna have to run if I want to catch another one.” “Don’t be silly, I’ll take you home.” “But you did that yesterday. It’s a twenty-five minute drive with the lunch hour traffic.” “Shh darling, anything for my girl.”

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A/N: Yay part one done! That was fun to write, let me know what you think!

#the 1975 #matty healy #matty healy x reader #matty healy smut #matty #adam hann #george daniel #ross macdonald #the 1975 smut

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musings-of-a-rose · 2 years ago

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Love at the Top

Pairing: Teacher Ben x f! Teacher reader

Word Count: 3200+

Rating: Mature - 18+ ONLY!

Warnings: Just like ao3, “creator chooses not to use warnings.” If you click Keep Reading, that means you agree that you’re the age to handle mature themes. Also by clicking Keep Reading, you understand warnings may not be complete in order to avoid spoilers for the story.

Notes: This was an ask that was pm to me from @fishingforpike and I couldn't pass! I hope it's what you want (and if you want a smutty part 2 I may be down for writing that)

**If you want to be added to the taglist, join here or let me know!

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Teacher Ben Masterlist

Love at the Top Part 2

Graduating wasn't easy. Interviewing for my first big job was harder. But the hardest so far is this. Teaching high school English fresh out of college - and I know no one at this school.

I moved to a new city right after graduation after accepting the English teaching position so not only was it my first real degree job, but it was in a new city with a whole new culture. And I was teaching high school. Which shouldn't be an issue because I'm 24 which means I can still relate to the youth of today, right?

I hope so.

I completed all of the new hire orientation at the district building. Today I finally get to see my classroom and start setting up while navigating all of the back to school meetings and having everyone point out "the new teacher". I hope there aren't any ice breaker games.

"Welcome back everyone!" The principal starts the all staff meeting with a typical speel of announcements.

"Before we continue, let's do some ice breakers to get us into that back to school spirit!"

Damn.

He starts to pair us up, trying to match people outside of what they teach.

"And Ben, you'll be with the new English teacher." He gestures between me and a man I've not met yet.

Ben turns to face me and my stomach jumps into my throat. He is gorgeous. All dark eyes and graying dark hair, button up shirt tucked into his dress slacks with a tie that says "Science ROCKS!" on it with pictures of rocks all over it. He has black framed glasses which he's taken off his face to fiddle with nervously as he stands, walking to me.

"H-hi. I'm Ben." He holds his hand out and I shake it, noticing that his palms were slightly sweaty.

I tell him my name. "Nice to meet you."

We get through the ice breaker game and I find myself crushing hard on Ben with his shirt tucked into his pants.

The meeting resumes and everyone goes back to their seats. I find myself stealing glances at Ben across the room and I swear I catch his eyes a few times but there's no way he's looking at me, right?

The meeting ends and I gather up my things, trying to remember how to get to my room from here when I feel someone walk up to me. Turning, I see Ben, shifting nervously from foot to foot. He leans in and speaks quietly to me.

"Need help getting back to your room?"

"How did you know?"

He smiles and now I know I'm in trouble. "Happens for all of us. What's your room number?"

"Uh…" I check my paper. "148-B."

"Oh that's not far from me. I'll take you there.. if…if you'd like?"

"I'd love that, thank you."

Ben escorts me to my room and looks around at the bare walls and boxes stacked everywhere.

"You have some work ahead of you."

I sigh. "Oh yeah. I haven't had a moment to unpack anything."

"Do you want some help?"

"Oh. Um.. I don't think so." Really I'd have him stay but this is my first room and I'd like to set that up myself.

He smiles but it doesn't quite reach his eyes. "Ok. Well if you change your mind, I'm in 140-A. Just at the end of the hall."

"Thanks."

"You're welcome."

We stand there for several awkward moments before he gives me a little wave and heads out the door. What the fuck was that? I can't have a crush on a coworker already.

I start to unpack, the room slowly coming together. I find myself thinking about Ben and when I can't take it anymore, I decide to set aside some posters that I'll say I need help with.

I head down to his room and take a breath, gently knocking on the door.

"Come in."

I push open the door and have to pause - his room is heavily decorated, earth science posters plaster the walls, stacks of books around the edges, bins and bins of rocks are everywhere. It feels like organized chaos and I love it. Wait, is that a lightsaber in the corner?

"Oh hey. How's the room coming?"

"It's..nowhere near as cool as yours."

Is he blushing? "I - my room's a mess. Especially compared to yours I'm sure."

"I think it's wonderful."

"Th-thanks."

A few moments pass before I work up the courage to ask.

"I- could you help me hang a few things? I just don't want to fall off a chair."

"Y-yeah. Of course!" He walks towards me.

I point to the corner. "Is that a lightsaber?"

Now I know he's blushing. "I uh… yeah." He sounds embarrassed.

"I have Ashoka's. What color is yours?"

His eyes snap to mine, a light igniting behind them. "Green. You have a lightsaber too?"

"2, technically. I'd love to get my own at Disney one day."

He smiles wide. "Oh it's a great experience! That's where I got that one from. So you're a Star Wars fan then?"

I nod. "Absolutely."

"Are you old enough to see them in theaters?"

I laugh. "Well not the original ones, but yeah. I was little and they were re-releases but that's when I fell in love. They were my first movies in theaters."

We chat about Star Wars all the way back to my room and while he puts up the posters I could've easily hung myself. Once he finishes, he turns to me, dropping his voice quieter than normal.

"Ok, want the real low down on the school?"

"Ooo yes!"

He chuckles. "Ok my young Padawan." He launches into a mini Ted talk about the best bathrooms, which stairs cases to avoid, the sticky elevator, which lunch lady will sneak you extra food, although I have a sneaking suspicion that applies to Ben only.

"Thank you so much, Ben! What would I have done without you?"

He waves a hand. "I'm sure you would've been fine."

"Can I buy you lunch tomorrow?"

He starts coughing violently but waves me off when I move to help him. "What?"

"As a thank you. Can I buy you lunch?"

"Oh really you don't have to."

"Of course I don't. But I want to. What are the good spots?"

"You don't want to go to lunch with an old man like me."

I blow a raspberry at him. "Please. You aren't old."

"I'm 47. And you're what, 20?"

"24. And stop acting like you're 120. You're only 47."

"It's a 23 year difference."

"So you've done the math between us?"

What did I just say?

He blushes hard, hands not sure whether they want to settle on his hips or cross his broad chest. "N-no. I mean it's simple math."

I nod, trying to hide my own embarrassment. "It is. But it's not bad. We get along just fine, don't we?"

He opens and closes his mouth a few times. "I-yeah but…wouldn't your boyfriend mind?"

Is he fishing?

"It's a thank you lunch so it wouldn't matter even if I had a boyfriend. Or a girlfriend."

He says nothing, studying me. "A simple thank you is just fine, Padawan."

"No matter how much I insist, you're going to turn me down aren't you?"

He nods. "Afraid so."

"Suit yourself. I was going to see if we could catch the early bird special."

He puts his hand on his chest in mock shock. "Is that an old person joke?"

"It would be if you were old."

—----

That first week back for teachers flies by, mostly thanks to Ben. He's helped me decorate and setup nearly my entire room, helping me with every vision I had as "It's your first classroom so you decorate it how you want."

Then it's time for students.

Ben comes in early that first day and drops by my room, quietly handing me a cup of coffee he'd brought me from a local coffee shop, telling me I'll be brilliant on my first day after seeing the nerves in my eyes.

"You've learned so much, Padawan. They'll love you. Just don't show them any weakness and you'll be good."

"What?"

He waves, giving me a smirk as he heads back through the door. "You'll be great!"

Somehow I make it to lunch without vomiting. The kids were actually not too bad so far. And I get to see Ben at lunch.

He's saved me a seat, sliding me a peanut butter cup when I sit across from him in the teacher's lounge.

"How did you know I needed this?" I ask him, eagerly peeling back the paper and stuffing the entire cup into my mouth.

He smiles. "I just had a feeling."

—----

We settle into a routine, spending our lunch time chatting about anything and everything, popping into each other's classrooms with some random excuse to just say hi, students or not.

A couple months later, one of my students approaches me, handing me her class work as I take a sip of water.

"Miss, are you dating Mr. Ben?"

I choke on my water, throwing my hands in the air. "I-what?"

She's smiling at me. "You're dating aren't you?"

"Uh… no we aren't. We're just good friends."

"Uh huh."

"Why would you ask that?"

"You're just always with each other. I thought you were together."

I bring this up to Ben when I drop by his room during planning period. He blushes furiously, red creeping up his cheeks as he removes his glasses to wipe at them nervously.

"What, uh what did you tell her?"

"That we weren't dating. Just good friends."

He nods, his eyes looking a little sad. "I can't believe they'd think you'd date an old fart like me."

I laugh. "You're not that old, how many times do I have to tell you that?"

"You're closer to them in age than to me."

He's not wrong.

"That's just numbers. Besides, none of them have those little gray hairs in their hair."

His fingers come up to run at his hair. "Is there something wrong with it?"

"Not at all. Trust me, it works."

His eyes meet mine and they shift ever so slightly down to my lips before flicking back up. He opens his mouth to say something bit then the bell rings, extinguishing any sort of spark we felt in that moment.

—-----

The State Fair comes to town and it's all the students can talk about. Apparently it's a big thing here and so, I decide not to give them homework and even push back their planned test, which earns me a class full of whoops and hollers every period.

At lunch, I mention this to Ben who chuckles and says I may have surpassed him as favorite teacher now.

"Oh please, all the kids love you."

He chuckles and shakes his head. "I have no clue why."

"Really? You're a fantastic teacher and really take the time to get on their level so they understand the subject."

He stares at me. "You- you think?"

"I love watching you teach. It's obvious you care and the kids can pick up on that."

He blushes, red dusting his cheeks as he turns to his sandwich, mumbling a "thanks".

"So this state fair is a big thing?"

He nods, swallowing the bite of sandwich. "Huge. It's not small either, has concerts and livestock shows, typical fair food and rides, and a bunch of other stuff."

"Sounds fun. I've never been to a fair."

He chokes and I jump, moving around the table to thump him on the back.

"Y-you've never b-been to a fair before?"

I shake my head. "Nope. Parents didn't want to pay for it."

"Well you have to go then!"

"By myself?"

"Fairs aren't fun alone. I'll take you."

Silence stretches between us as his eyes grow wide when he realizes what he said.

"I mean as friends, of course."

I smile, letting it not reach my eyes. "Of course."

"I uh… I'll pick you up Saturday morning?"

"Sounds perfect."

—----

I swear I've tried on everything I own and I can't settle on something to wear. It's not like it's a date, but it feels like something… more. I don't know how to explain it but I know I want to wear non school work clothes.

I finally settle on a sundress, pale green with embroidered flowers and vines running across it and pair it with some short boots, not wanting to walk across dirt in sandals.

The knock at my door comes promptly at 11am, exactly when he said he'd pick me up. I grab my bag and open the door, smiling wide at his choice of black slacks and a light blue top that somehow brings out his eyes. I've never seen this man in a color that he can't pull off.

"HI Ben! Wait…does your bow tie have little Earths on it?"

He smiles nervously, fingers twisting his bow tie. "Yeah it does! Do you like it?"

"I do!"

His smile is brighter, but then his eyes rake down my body and something shifts in him, his eyes becoming darker.

"Y-you look…"

"Oh. Is this not fair appropriate? I can change-"

"No! I mean, no. It's perfect. You're perfect."

"What?"

"I uh said come on let's go."

—----

He wasn't kidding - this fair is huge.

He insists on paying, buying parking and my entrance ticket, helping me decide which fair foods to try as I'd never had any of them. We hit up the petting zoo, a livestock show that one of our mutual students was competing in, and looked at all of the vendors, some selling some really unique things.

Then it was time for rides.

We went on several different ones before I needed a break, noticing the relief on Ben's face when I insisted we rest. The sun was starting to set, so Ben said we should rest on the ferris wheel.

"You have to catch the sunset from the ferris wheel," he insists.

I don't have the heart to tell him I'm not a huge fan of heights.

We get in the cart and pull the bar down and I think I'm doing OK…until we move. The second we start to ascend, my hand flies out and I grip Ben's thigh, trying to basically insert myself into his lap.

"Are you ok?" He asks as we continue to climb, cart stopping every few feet to let someone else in.

"I… I'm g-good."

"You're gripping my thigh."

I try to let go but I can't. "Ok… I'm terrified of heights."

We make it to the top and the wheel starts to move slowly around and I think I'm going to lose it.

Ben hesitantly puts his arm around my shoulder, pulling me into his side. He squeezes me slightly, adding just enough pressure to calm me. His other hand lays on top of mine, which is still gripping his thigh. He manages to slide his fingers around mine, the warmth from his hand grounding me in the moment. He rubs his thumb along the back of my hand, trying to comfort me. We stay like that through 2 rotations of the wheel before it stops, us at the top.

"Why is it s-stopped?"

"It's to take in the view. But you don't have to."

I nod. "I think I'm doing b-better."

"Can I ask you something?"

"You just did."

He chuckles sarcastically. "Ha-ha. But seriously, why did you agree to the ferris wheel if you're not a fan of heights?"

The cart rocks and I squeeze him harder, unable to think clearly. "To be with you."

He stiffens. "To..what?"

The cart sways again and my grip tightens.

"I want to see the sunset."

He rubs his hand up and down my arm. "You don't have to."

"No. I want to."

I take a deep breath and open my eyes, immediately starting to breathe faster as my eyes take in the height.

"Hey, padawan, look at me."

My terror filled eyes find his, soft and warm and comforting, and I find myself relaxing, getting lost in those brown eyes I love so much. His hand comes up to tuck some hair behind my ear and his fingers brush my cheek.

I sigh, the tension leaving my body the longer we stay like that. His eyes flick down to my lips and linger for a few seconds before meeting my eyes again.

I take my hand from his and place it on his chest, gently, hesitantly, gripping his shirt and tugging slightly on it to pull him toward me. He acquiesces, slowly lowering his head to mine, but then he pauses, lips an inch from mine.

"I'm 47."

"I don't care."

I tug him ever so slightly again and a moment later, he pushes his lips to mine, mustache tickling me as he kisses me. It's gentle, restrained, as if he can't believe he's kissing me. He pulls back, dark eyes finding mine, wide and asking if that was ok.

I slide my hand up to his cheek, rubbing my thumb over his patchy stubble before sliding it behind his head, pulling him down to me, deepening the kiss the second our lips meet. I feel his hand come up to cradle the back of my head and he sighs into me, pulling me as close as he can, a slight moan in the back of his throat.

He pulls back, but stays close, eyes meeting mine.

"Are…are you sure? I'm such an old man."

"I really like you, Ben. Like a lot. But I don't want to make you uncomfortable-"

"I don't want you to be uncomfortable."

My finger traces a pattern on his cheek and he closes his eyes briefly before finding mine again.

"You could never make me uncomfortable. You're the only person I've ever felt like I could be myself with."

Oh God, his eyes are like a puppies' and I don't know what to do.

"Really?"

"Really."

"Would it be bad of me to make out with you before the first date?"

I mock thinking, finger poking at my chin. "I'll allow it."

"Oh thank God."

His lips pressed to mine and the kiss is more frantic, deeper, more emotion behind it than before. Like he's relaxing and allowing himself this chance at happiness.

I clutch him to me, my leg sliding over his as I try to slide into his lap, forgetting about the lap bar. And the fact we're in public. Ben chuckles, placing his hand hesitantly on my bare thigh.

"Not here, sweet girl. Too many eyes. And I want you all for myself."

-------

Love at the Top Part 2

General Taglist:

@frankie-catfish-morales @chaoticgeminate @janebby @astoryisaloveaffair @balekanemohafe @greeneyedblondie44 @hoeforthefictional @marvelousmermaid @hauntedmama @giuliarogers-blog @icanbeyourjedi @diaryofkali @sunnshineeexoxo @livingmydreams13 @adventures-of-a-noodle @sara-alonso @theewokingdead @punkerthanpascal @giggly-otter @f0rever15elf @phandoz @dirtytissuebox @gallowsjoker @lovesbiggerthanpride @sarahmilesbendrix @booksarekindaneat @mrsudontknowme @swol-bear @charlispersonallyhell @xoxabs88xox @amneris21 @gooddaykate @alindeluce @avengers-fixation @paintballkid711 @harriedandharassed @ladykatakuri @marrianena-library @practicalghost @withakindheartx @batdarkladyvampir @justanotherkpopstanlol @mermaidxatxheart @alexxavicry @ichigodjarin @justreblogginfics

#teacher ben #mr ben #snl #saturday night live #pedro pascal snl pedro pascal x reader #pedro pascal x you #pedro pascal characters #pedro pascal character fanfic #pedro pascal character ff #pedro pascal character fanfiction

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lemonsrosesandlavender · 6 months ago

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Questions about me!

Thanks for the tag, @sleketon666 ! 😄 won’t tag anyone else as this briefly veers into somewhat personal mental health territory (and is under the cut for mentions of that.) This was fun!

Do you make your bed?

Yes. Not super perfectly but I just kinda automatically tweak the covers on a morning.

What’s your favourite number?

Don’t think I have one. Numbers are more useful and interesting in aggregate haha.

What is your job? // A job you had that would surprise people?

Hmmm well not to go into too much detail, but my real-life work is in science. I guess that might surprise people who know me for my creative side over here! (But also problem-solving inherently requires creativity, and a good plot a good dose of planning and internal logic. Perhaps they aren’t so dissimilar after all ;) )

If you could go back to school would you?

What? Primary school? Secondary school? Non. Secondary was rough until sixth form. I was so fucking bored a lot of the time, and harassment in my school was rife. Although I would love to do lessons with my art teacher again; she was wonderful!

University-wise: already did. Horrible undergrad, in a very high-pressure place, that completely destroyed my sense of worth and all my plans for the future. Took a few years out, went somewhere less horrible, and crushed it. Ta-da! (I mean I’ll forever have a lot of lingering self-doubt but you know. I did the thing. And proved to myself I both love it and am good at it).

Can you parallel park? // Can you drive a manual car?

I hate cars (on both an experience level and an environmental/political level) and will avoid learning to drive for as long as I possibly can. Luckily I love big-city life, which makes that easier!

Do you think aliens are real?

For sure, in a balance-of-probabilities way. The universe is vast. Will we ever find them? Again, the universe is vast. At the very least though, there’s some alien microbes wiggling away out there. That’s fucking cool.

(And watch the science on this, bc we FINALLY have telescopes capable of surveying the spectra of some exoplanets. Exciting discoveries about other planets’ atmospheres to come, and their reflected light, which can provide indirect evidence of life!)

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Oh boy. Bad reality TV. It’s a guilty pleasure because I know it’s a) completely engineered and b) exploitative. (And c) complete brainrotting rubbish). But then someone says “the new series of Too Hot to Handle is out!” and OOPS I am THERE.

Tattoos?

Nope. I’m not a tattoo person. I think some people carry them off but I wear a lot of different clothing silhuoettes and don’t enjoy tattoos half-peeking out of cut-outs. (I just like a “neat” personal style I guess?)

Favourite Colour?

Mmm midnight blue-purple. Some colours are contextual: that one is always perfect. (But I love colour full stop!)

Any phobias?

WASPS holy shit wasps. I know it’s irrational as fuck, and I know they’re important to the ecosystem. That is, in fact, one of the few things I cling on to when they’re really freaking me out. But suffice to say, you’ll never catch me sitting outside a pub in September.

As a kid I was terrified of hand dryers and air conditioning vents. To the point I spent every supermarket trip looking up to see whether I was standing under a vent or not. It is perhaps not surprising I ended up with OCD lol.

Favourite type of music?

Late 70s/Early 80s new wave. Talking Heads and Blondie my beloveds. 80s alternative generally.

Do you talk to yourself?

Unfortunately mostly when I’m struggling with OCD. I’ll curse myself out and say horrible things to myself aloud as effectively emotional self-harm. It’s not nice. (Don’t worry, I’m ok ATM. And have had therapy).

I will muse to myself a little sometimes, on a more fun note.

Do you like puzzles?

Yes! I go through occasional phases of being seriously puzzle-obsessed. Love a good overly-complicated Sudoku variant.

What did you want to be as a child?

Palaeontologist, all the way. I LOVED dinosaurs and would read my dinosaur books constantly. I think my faves were T-rexes (OBVIOUSLY) and Parasauralophus (probably not how you spell that and I suspect my ten-year-old self would have done a better job!)

Coffee or Tea?

Love them both. I drink more coffee atm but tea is great too (Lapsang Souchong being my absolute favourite. I need to order more!) I am 100% a caffeine addict but I find it so soothing. Even when I’m anxious, I want a cup of tea (yeah, yeah, sensible it is not. But ahhhhhh so relaxing).

Favourite Movies?

Star Trek: The Voyage Home. Just everything good about TOS Trek. Wonderful.

The Sure Thing: Underrated 80s romcom gem about an uptight, studious girl and a slacker-but-sweetheart boy getting stuck on a road trip together. It’s got a lot of humour and a lot of heart. Plus a great instance of the “confession via essay read in class” trope, which I love. The gif below is from this movie!

It’s a Wonderful Life//A Muppet Christmas Carol - I adore a good Christmas movie, and these are the best. I’m an atheist, but I adore Christmas; to me, it’s about kindness, family and community, which is why these films have me bawling my fucking heart out every year. (Yes, I cry when muppet Tiny Tim says “god bless us, every one”. Fucking come at me. Sniffle).

#cabbage was tagged #seriously WATCH THE SURE THING #it’s so fucking good

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the-delta-42 · 2 years ago

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Series

My Multi-chaptered Fics/Series

War Circle AU - Miraculous Ladybug - Marinette has an older brother who has the Wolf Miraculous, the head of the War Circle.

The Pirate Prince - Legend of Zelda - Link was orphaned at 3 months old and taken in by the King of the Gerudo, Ganondorf. Fast-forward seventeen years later, a disagreement results in Link leaving and start sailing the seas as the captain of The Fierce Deity, a Pirate ship that is known for hunting down various Criminals and pirates alike, But the winds of destiny throw Link back to his family. Zelink.

To Find Hyrule - Legend of Zelda - Link never expected to find a home on the waves. Tetra never expected to find a home in a person. A Series of non-chronological One-Shots that'll vary in length that'll follow Link and Tetra, and their growing relationship, as they look for New Hyrule. Set after Phantom Hourglass. I decided there wasn't enough of Tetra and Link, so here's a series of one shots around them. Telink.

To Find Hyrule Reblogged - The To Find Hyrule series in Chronological Order

Agents Like Us - Zootopia - Before Nick was hustling with Finnick, he was a secret agent with Mammal Military Intelligence 5 and FBI. Now, ten years after Nick left, his old partner has come to call. After all, Nick can't run from Jack, not again. This story will contain Ships. Featuring Nick Wilde, Judy Hopps, Jack Savage and Others.

Rewrite History - Miraculous Ladybug - Bunnyx changing history of Ladybug’s orders, in an attempt to advert a disastrous event.

To the Final Frontier - Miraculous/Star Trek -

Valentine’s Prompts - Miraculous Ladybug - The Prompts from DeviantArt’s Valentine’s day

Bridges AU - Miraculous Ladybug - Adrien and Marinette have a falling out and Marinette is forced through the pain of losing her family. Started out as salt, future parts will retcon things

Marivenger - Miraculous Ladybug/Marvel - Marinette teaming up with the Avengers

Critical - Miraculous Ladybug - Marinette is injured in an Akuma attack and is left fighting for her life

Armed AU - Miraculous Ladybug - While fighting an Akuma, Ladybug is disarmed and exposed to the city of Paris

Hush AU - Miraculous Ladybug - Marinette’s parents discover her secret

Rules of Precinct One - Zootopia - The rules that all Officers in Precinct One have to follow. Zootopia.

Revealed - Miraculous Ladybug - Marinette has a terrible secret revealed after Rose is Akumatized

New Car AU - Miraculous Ladybug/Transformers Prime - Marinette thought she had a normal car, after her last one was stolen and torched, but it opened her world up for a whole lot of insanity.

Maribat - Miraculous Ladybug/DC - Genetics are a wonderful thing, unless the substitute Science teacher is an arsehole. Bio Dad Bruce Wayne.

Miraculous Transformers - All MLB-TF cross over fics

In Plain Sight - Miraculous Ladybug/Transformers - LB-14 and CN-15 were dispatched to Paris under orders from Optimus Prime. Nowhere in those orders was the recommendation for them to crash into a building and reveal themselves to a group of locals.

Autobot City - Transformers: Prime, Rescue Bots & Robots in Disguise 2015 AU

Grief - Miraculous Ladybug - WARNING! THIS STORY HAS MAJOR CHARACTER DEATH, VIOLENCE AND SOMEONE TAKING THEIR OWN LIFE! IF THIS IS LIKELY TO SET YOU OFF IN ANY WAY DO NOT READ! A moment is all it took. A moment is the cost of a battle. A moment that starts a whole domino effect that leads to the end for so many.

Too Far AU - Miraculous Ladybug - This series has implied and referenced rape/non-con elements. If this is likely to trigger, offend or otherwise make you react in a negative way DO NOT READ! A group from another class believe Lila's lies too well and believe Marinette is working with Hawkmoth. The group decide to take the law into their own hands, only for them to go too far in their 'interrogation' techniques.

Winged Mirabel AU - Encanto - An Encanto AU where Mirabel has wings

Know Better AU - My parts for Tumblr's Fake Apology AU, but I'm going to remove as much of the salt from it as possible. - Miraculous Ladybug - Marinette hears Nino and Adrien talking and gets the wrong end of the stick, which creates a domino effect that causes a dark secret to be revealed. TW: contains mentions of abuse, past non-con and Gabriel Agreste being a shit person

Family - The Walking Dead -Alvin and Rebecca reluctantly agree to foster Clementine, a troubled child they've fostered before, after her latest foster family send her back into care.

TWDG Wing AU - The Walking Dead - If you were fortunate enough, you were born with wings. If you weren’t, you’d hope a child in your family would born with wings. Lee and his younger brother fell into the former camp, their parents were in the camp with them. Centuries ago, people with wings were once treated as deities, then were hunted, and then treated with the utmost respect. After an apocalypse interrupts Lee's journey to prison, he suddenly finds himself acting as a guardian for a little girl called Clementine. While doing his best to care for, and protect, her, he finds himself on the long road to redemption.

TWDG Reunions AU - After Clementine and AJ are exiled from the school, they make their way to New Richmond and the New Frontier. After reuniting with some old friends and a couple of accidents, the pair forge a new life in the community. Ten years later, they experience a tragedy and an unexpected reunion.

The Black Order - Harry Potter - The Order of the Phoenix wasn't the only secret group that stood against Voldemort and his Death Eaters. But no one wants to talk about the Black Order.

Why? - Miraculous Ladybug/Incredibles/Marvel/DC - In a misguided attempt to help his friend, Adrien takes her sketchbook and shows it to his father. The actions Gabriel takes draw world wide condemnation and causes two families to band together to bring him down.

Hindsight - Miraculous Ladybug - Lila doesn't agree to Adrien's deal, so Damocles never goes back on his decision to expel Marinette. Soon, Mdm. Bustier is in an interview at another school and finds that there are more differences between her previous and current workplace than she expected. A few days later, Marinette is offered a place at another school, while her previous class realise the truth about Lila. After an incident during an Akuma attack, everyone starts to understand that hindsight is 20/20.

Your Royal Highness - Miraculous Ladybug/Assassin's Creed AU - For over 2000 years, three kingdoms, known as Eden, Elysium and Babylon, appeared. For 2000 years, the Assassin's have protected those kingdoms, as well as the vaults that are hidden within them. With the Prince of Elysium in Paris, two Novices are placed as his body guards in a bid to expediate their training. Unfortunately, Hawkmoth appears, leading to one of the Novices to being given a Miraculous. Soon Hawkmoth will understand the meaning of Nothing in True, Everything in Permitted.

Full Moon - Miraculous Ladybug/Harry Potter - At three years old a werewolf, by the name of Fenrir Greyback, bit Marinette during a full moon. Being a werewolf is Marinette's biggest and greatly guarded secret, even more than her identity as Ladybug. And Lila, in an attempt to turn everyone against Marinette, accidentally tells the truth.

The Truth - Miraculous Ladybug - Marinette trying to tell Adrien the truth leads to a series of unexpected events.

Fall of Order - Miraculous Ladybug/Star Wars - On the cusp of starting her Jedi Trials, Padawan Marinette Dupain-Cheng was on her last mission with her Master Wang Fu attempting to gain Mandalorian support in the final days of the Clone War, when Order 66 was broadcast and the Republic became the Empire.

Returns - Lee is confused after waking up in the middle of a forest with Carley and Ben, meanwhile at Ericson's, Clementine is trying to wrap her head around dead friends coming back to life and her unexpected condition.

Master and Padawan - Star Wars: Rebels A.U. The Jedi and the Republic never fell, Anakin didn't fall and Palpatine is dead. After Obi-Wan and Luke bring back a prisoner from Malachor, the Council must decide what they must do with Maul’s captured Apprentice.

Home - In the final year of the Clone War, four years after being forced to leave her home, Jedi Clementine Marsh is forced to take four Jedi and their troops to her home world, after the Wildfire Virus is accidentally released while sparring with Anakin Skywalker's apprentice. Forced to confront her past, Clementine must ensure her men survive while waiting for Republic aid.

The Walking Dead Game What Ifs - Inspired by the works done by @thecrusadercomrade and @bourbonificould. A set on disconnected oneshots based on Telltales The Walking Dead Game with elements from The Walking Dead TV Show.

Ripples - How much of the future would change, if one small detail is changed? Ariana is saved from being attacked, little near a century later her great-great grandson enters Hogwarts at the start of his first year. Ariana never actually thought Harry would be in danger though. (I forgot to post the Chapters here.)

Abused and Broken - An unexpected miracle results in people lost during the first Wizarding war returning to the land of the living. No one knows who brought them back, nor do they know how or why. They just have to fix the broken parts of their families as best as they can.

Harry Potter What Ifs - Coming Soon

Star Wars What Ifs - Coming Soon

#Delta Writes #miraculous ladybug #legend of zelda #zootopia #Star wars #Star Trek #Doctor Who #Transformers #Encanto #the walking dead #telltale the walking dead #the walking dead game

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mostlysignssomeportents · 2 years ago

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This day in history

#20yrsago Rucker reviews Gibson https://www.wired.com/2003/02/logomancer/

#5yrsago Elite Baltimore police unit robbed with impunity, sold guns and drugs, loaned guns and armor to civilians sent to commit robberies https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/06/us/baltimore-police-corruption.html

#5yrsago Trump wants to cap lifetime Medicaid benefits, even for disabled people, the chronically ill, and people with Alzheimer’s https://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/politics-government/article198549039.html

#5yrsago Oklahoma schools go on 4-day weeks so teachers can work at Walmart on Mondays to make rent https://www.economist.com/united-states/2018/01/30/whats-the-matter-with-oklahoma

#5yrsago 25 years ago, a mutant American crayfish turned to asexual reproduction, and all of Europe’s lakes are filling up with its clones https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/05/science/mutant-crayfish-clones-europe.html

#5yrsago California State Senator wants to remake cities with midrises near public transit, but he is facing a wave of nimbyism https://extranewsfeed.com/my-transit-density-bill-sb-827-answering-common-questions-and-debunking-misinformation-226eaa7e1653

#5yrsago Facebook hired a pollster to track Zuck’s public image, but he quit because working for Facebook filled him with shame https://www.theverge.com/2018/2/6/16976328/facebook-mark-zuckerberg-pollster-tavis-mcginn-honest-data

#5yrsago RIP John Perry Barlow, 1947–2018 https://memex.craphound.com/2018/02/07/rip-john-perry-barlow-1947-2018/

#5yrsago The myth of the “genius creator” requires that we ignore the people they build on, or insist they don’t matter https://web.archive.org/web/20180222151637/https://copy-me.org/2018/02/the-creativity-delusion-there-is-no-genius/

#pluralistic

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nickyysharmi · 3 months ago

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How STEM is Changing the Game for Kids in Education

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s no secret that education is one of the biggest keys to success. But it’s not just about learning facts and memorizing dates anymore. We’re living in a time where technology is everywhere, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is becoming the heart and soul of the modern classroom. If kids are going to thrive in the future, they need to be introduced to STEM early on, so they’re ready to tackle whatever comes their way.

What Makes STEM So Important?

STEM isn’t your typical classroom stuff. It’s about more than just learning how things work – it’s about understanding why they work and how to solve problems in a world that’s constantly changing. When kids get into STEM, they’re learning to think critically, solve problems, and come up with creative solutions. These are the skills they’ll need whether they end up working with robots, programming apps, or even finding new ways to tackle environmental challenges.

Getting kids into STEM early is crucial because it builds the foundation for the future. We’re talking about future jobs, industries, and even inventions that don’t even exist yet! The world is evolving fast, and we need curious minds that can keep up.

Also Read: Top Foundations Helping Underprivileged Students: Udaan India to Abhay Bhutada Foundation

A Local Hero: The Abhay Bhutada Foundation

One initiative making waves in the world of STEM education is the Abhay Bhutada Foundation. Recently, the foundation donated STEM kits to several rural schools in Pune, including areas like Kelgaon, Dhanore, and Bursewadi. And here’s the cool part: for many of these schools, it was their first time getting their hands on these kinds of learning tools.

In Kelgaon, for example, one of the teachers shared how thrilled the students were to finally get these kits. Suddenly, subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics weren’t so intimidating. Thanks to the hands-on approach of the kits, students could experiment, ask questions, and see scientific principles in action. It transformed their learning experience, and the excitement was through the roof!

This kind of initiative is a game-changer. By giving students in underserved areas access to STEM resources, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation is breaking down barriers and giving every child the chance to get in on the action.

Also Read: Students in Pune Empowered with STEM Kit from the Abhay Bhutada Foundation (ABF)

Bridging the Education Gap

Unfortunately, access to quality education isn’t always a given, especially in rural areas. While city schools may have labs and libraries full of resources, many rural schools struggle to even get basic educational tools. That’s where efforts like the Abhay Bhutada Foundation come in. By bringing STEM kits to these communities, the foundation is closing the gap and making sure that education isn’t just for the privileged few.

The best part? These STEM kits allow students to learn through doing. They can visualize the solar system, experiment with circuits, and understand complicated concepts by working with real-world examples. This kind of hands-on learning makes education so much more engaging and fun. Suddenly, it’s not about memorizing facts – it’s about figuring things out for themselves.

The Bigger Picture: Why STEM Matters for Everyone

STEM education has benefits that go way beyond just the students themselves. For starters, countries that invest in STEM are setting themselves up for success. We’re talking about future innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem solvers who can make a real difference in fields like healthcare, renewable energy, and technology.

Plus, STEM education can help level the playing field. For kids from low-income backgrounds, it can open up doors to opportunities that were previously out of reach. Whether it’s getting into higher education or landing a career in tech, the possibilities are endless.

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s work shows just how powerful local efforts can be. By giving students the resources they need, they’re not just helping kids succeed today – they’re setting them up for a brighter tomorrow.

Also Read: Abhay Bhutada Foundation: A Commitment to Social Welfare

Wrapping It Up

Education is changing, and STEM is at the center of it all. By introducing kids to science, technology, engineering, and math in an interactive, hands-on way, we’re preparing them for a future full of challenges and opportunities. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s initiative to bring STEM kits to rural schools is a shining example of how we can make education more fun, engaging, and accessible to everyone. Here’s to a future where every child has the chance to thrive in the world of tomorrow!

#stem academia #abhay bhutada #education

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achronicleofstudentcampusp · 5 months ago

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INCITING EXCELLENCE

A Journey Through the Illustrious Faculty of SMS Varanasi

The School of Management Sciences, Varanasi (SMS Varanasi) is an oasis of knowledge and enlightenment located in the holy city of Varanasi, where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. A haven of academic brilliance and intellectual study, SMS Varanasi nurtures the minds and souls of aspirant academics from all over the nation, nestled between the busy streets and old ghats.

The outstanding faculty members who represent the spirit of knowledge, wisdom, and mentoring are this prestigious institution's greatest asset. These luminaries influence the future of SMS Varanasi via their erudition, enthusiasm, and steadfast commitment to educational excellence. They lead students on a transformative journey of self-realization and discovery.

Let's explore the diverse range of accomplishments, goals, and contributions made by the faculty members of SMS Varanasi as we set out to uncover their intelligence and commitment to the field of management education. Join us as we explore the halls of wisdom, where every faculty member serves as a custodian of the institution's outstanding past, a guardian of information, and a catalyst for change in addition to being a teacher.

We honour the distinguished staff of SMS Varanasi in this salute to their unwavering dedication, unwavering spirit, and enormous influence on the lives of innumerable students. Let's honor these academic giants collectively, whose wisdom lights the road to greatness and whose influence lives on through the generations.

Within the dynamic realm of education, faculty members are the cornerstones that mold students' intellectual development. This is a deeply felt truth at the School of Management Sciences, Varanasi (SMS Varanasi). Let's take a tour to discover the amazing teachers who work nonstop to support students' academic and overall growth. Faculty members are the vital fabric of higher education; they are the primary source of academic enlightenment and information sharing. A constellation of luminaries make up the faculty roster at the prestigious School of Management Sciences, Varanasi (SMS Varanasi). Each one of them brings a distinct set of skills and a passion for developing tomorrow's leaders to the table. Come along with us as we set out on a journey to reveal the intellect and commitment of the teachers that make SMS Varanasi a prestigious institution of excellence.

Welcome to the amazing faculty members of SMS Varanasi - a place of inspiration, enlightenment, and dhttps://smsvaranasi.com/iscovery.

Dr. P. N. Jha: Pioneer in Innovation and Research

Entering the field of innovation and research, Dr. P. N. Jha is a formidable presence at SMS Varanasi. Dr. Jha is the Head of Research and Publications, and her academic endeavors have won praise on a national and worldwide level. For prospective researchers at SMS Varanasi, his unwavering quest of knowledge and dedication to academic success serve as a source of inspiration. Under the mentorship and guidance of Dr. Jha, students are enabled to push the boundaries of knowledge in a variety of fields by exploring new avenues for investigation. Under his direction, SMS Varanasi keeps up its lively research culture, educating the next wave of influential people and social change makers.

The Creator of Academic Excellence, Dr. R.K. Singh

The Dean of SMS Varanasi, Dr. R.K. Singh, personifies the spirit of scholarship and academic excellence. Dr. Singh has had a distinguished career in both academia and business. His knowledge and love of teaching have had a lasting impact on several pupils. As a renowned management researcher, Dr. Singh's research contributions have enhanced the scholarly conversation, and his astute teaching skills have motivated students to pursue intellectual brilliance. Under his direction, SMS Varanasi has been known for being a rigorous academic environment that develops the character and intelligence of future leaders.

Maestro of Management Education Prof. Sandeep Singh

Leading the academic journey at SMS Varanasi is Dr. Anil Kumar Sinha, a renowned figure in the field of management education. Dr. Sinha is a renowned professional with decades of experience, and he adds a lot of knowledge and understanding to his position as Director of SMS Varanasi. Dr. Sinha is a visionary leader who has demonstrated an unshakable dedication to educational innovation. Under his strategic stewardship, SMS Varanasi has become a leader in management education in India. His focus on global perspective, ethical leadership, and holistic development strikes a deep chord with students, molding them into responsible adults equipped to handle the challenges of today's complicated corporate environment.

Prof. Amitabh Pandey : Turning goals into Accomplishments

The coordinator of SMS Varanasi's MBA program and member of the Training & Placement Cell, Dr. Amitabh Pandey, is a seasoned scholar with a solid foundation in management. His unique combination of academic interests and professional expertise enhances the MBA program and guarantees that students get a well-rounded education. Because of his commitment to creating a vibrant learning environment, Dr. Pandey plays a significant role in molding SMS Varanasi's future business leaders. In a corporate environment that is changing quickly, Dr. Pandey is essential in determining its course and maintaining its applicability. He is renowned for being personable, offering mentorship, and being committed to creating an environment that is favorable for lhttps://smsvaranasi.com/earning for pupils.

Prof Pallavi Pathak : Championing Diversity and Inclusion

At SMS Varanasi, Prof Pallavi Pathak emerges as a driving force in the promotion of diversity and inclusion. In her capacity as the Women Cell Coordinator, Prof. Pathak directs programs meant to foster an environment that is encouraging and welcoming to every student. Her support of female empowerment and equality is a great fit with SMS Varanasi's mission to promote a respectful, dignified, and inclusive community. Prof. Pathak's unwavering dedication to advancing gender empowerment and sensitization opens the door to a more just and inclusive society where everyone has the chance to prosper.

Dr. Sanjay Saxena: Bridging Academia and Industry

At SMS Varanasi, Dr. Sanjay Saxena plays a key role in forging partnerships and collaborations by bridging the gap between academics and industry. In her role as the Corporate Resource Cell Coordinator, Dr. Saxena helps students connect with business, get internships, and find employment, connecting theory and practice and equipping them for the needs of the business world. His wide network and industry knowledge offer students priceless exposure and opportunity for hands-on learning, giving them the tools they need to succeed in their career aspirations.

To sum up, let's celebrate excellence!

One thing becomes very evident as we walk through SMS Varanasi's hallways under the bright lights of its faculty members: greatness is not only a goal, but a journey that is deeply embedded in the institution's culture. The faculty members at SMS Varanasi are the embodiment of excellence in education due to their constant dedication, scholarly prowess, and passion for teaching. In addition to being teachers, they also serve as mentors, role models, and transformational catalysts, influencing the lives of innumerable students and leaving a lasting legacy of leadership, integrity, and knowledge.

one thing becomes clear as one walks through the faculty hallways of SMS Varanasi: excellence is not only a goal but a way of life at this prestigious university. The professors mold the next generation of leaders by imparting integrity, creativity, and inclusivity through their knowledge, commitment, and enthusiasm. Every faculty member at SMS Varanasi not only teaches, but also serves as a friend, mentor, and advisor who helps students achieve their goals and mold their destinies.....Read More

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jaiyiee · 8 months ago

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THE STAIRS OF LIFE

In the town of Basey, Samar; there was a girl named Rosita O. Tadia. She was born on May 18, 1979. At the young age she experienced misfortune and stormy seas. They are 9 siblings in their family, she is the second youngest. All of her siblings was out of school, they are trying to find some gold working at the very young age. She was forced to work and carry hardships on her shoulders because of lack of money. Instead of being out of school she chose to be a working student. During her elementary days she continued her education while being a maid at her teachers house. Luckily she found a golden threads of kindness because one of her teachers volunteered to take the eesponsibility of her education.

On her high school days she found a place that she taught she can have a peaceful and ocean of tranquility, because there is another teacher who wants to adopt her. As the time goes by, she saw her shadow of sorrow, they made her as a family maid that is why she cant focus at her studies. She decided to leave without parting waves. Finally she found the best Boss that she never had before, they treat her as a part of their family, they also help her to have a work while studying to provide the needs of her family. Just because of the good heart of this Samaritan, she graduated at Leyte Colleges Tacloban City, with course of Bachelor Secondary Education major in Social Science.

After Graduated, she tried her luck in Cavite and take the path of being a teacher. She spent her 15 yrs of her life to being a teacher, then she finally found the love of her life. Now she has 4 children and she taught them the preseverance and resilience that she have been learned from her situation. Without this problems she cannot prove to those wild grass that she can make her dreams come true even if it was impossible at first. Without this experience she cannot be strong as roots, this problems made her realize that every challenges you could surpass even if it is strong as thunderstorm that is why there is a rainbow after the rain to give us hope after the storm.

#biography

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herz-korper-seele · 9 months ago

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01 — prologue

26 october 1963, 13:53 — berlin, east germany

Zivan slides the plate, earning uninformed ‘ooh’s from the crowd before him; mostly a student body with teachers, and scientists from different cities who’d come to spectate. Projected onto a board behind him is diffracted light, and it dances in circles as Zivan adjusts the plate. It was a simple experiment really. He takes a step forward to a table, placing his hand on the cylindrical battery that powered the magic show. “This is the electron emitter that shoots out invisible waves or particles and makes the light,” He raises his hand to point at the hung plate with two slits, “The sheet acts as interference, thus creating light.” He folds his fingers together and faces the crowd of faces. “While not a very enthusiastic experiment, it is an interesting one. It’s performed to demonstrate that light can come in both forms– In waves or as particles– and that would be proven later on in the Davisson-Germer experiment. It’s a groundwork to understand how light works,” Zivan clears his throat, putting on a humble face, “Thank you all for listening so kindly, and for the awards.” The crowd of maybe 150 clapped, and Zivan gives a toothy smile to the scientist he’d received the metal from. He didn’t remember the names of them.

He shied away in the curtained backstage, hoping no familiar faces were awaiting him before the exit. The street under his feet was cracked; a reflection of last year’s harsh winter, and foreboding this year’s winter. Zivan stops at the corner, checking his wrist watch. The bus wouldn’t arrive until 14:30. He takes a seat at the small bench beside the bus stop sign, trapping a small rock under his blue sneaker and rolling it in the ridges. Köpenick was about a thirty minute ride from the center of Berlin, so he had plenty of time to sit in utter silence, to pick apart his own presentation as retrospect and judge. The bus arrives early. Zivan stands and enters after the doors squeak open, walking down the aisle to select the first available seat. The bus begins to roll, and Zivan bounces with each pothole in the road. He rests his head in his hand as he gazes out the window; brown eyes following faces he didn’t know, signs he’s read before. The sky was especially gray today, he observes. He passes the Mariemstraße playground, filled with children wrapped in their fall best. The bus pulls to a halt, and more passengers shuffle onto the bus. He watches them pass out of the corner of his eye, and then– “Zhukovsky!” A nudge on his shoulder pulls him away from the window. His head jerks at the motion, and his eyes raise to see Keegan, an American he’d met at the Social Science Center. “Hey,” Zivan greets him, “What have you been up to?” Keegan slides into the seat next to him, fishing into his pocket for something with a big grin on his face. He arches an eyebrow as Keegan takes out a piece of paper, handing it to Zivan. “This,” He says proudly, to which Zivan unfolds the paper. “I found a place you might like, but only if you don’t tell that father of yours.” Zivan rolls his eyes, “I am not going to tell him.” Keegan smiles, blue eyes creasing in the corners. “Good. I went there a few nights ago to scope the place out, and they play some good music. Actually good music, by the way. Music you’ve never heard before good. There’s a girl there, too, that can get everyone drinks. I think her name is Loise, or something. She’s really pretty.” Zivan sighs at Keegan’s mention. “Oh, and don’t go before 7 o’clock, they won’t let you in,” Keegan chuckles, and then claps Zivan on the shoulder. “It’s my stop. I’ll see you there, yeah?” Zivan nods, watching with big eyes as Keegan stands up and walks off the bus. As quick as he came, he was gone. Hm. Zivan looks back at the paper, reading the addressee written on it. Verein Abtrünnig, Königstraße 4. Some sort of discotheque, Zivan had wandered the streets a few times and spotted it. He turns back to the window, hands returning into his pockets for his thumbs to memorize the indentions on his medals. He’d probably pawn them off.

The front door was locked when he got home, and his father wasn’t home. A layer of dust suffocates the top of the refrigerator, a handcloth on the sink untouched and covered in last week’s filth. As Lishka crowds around his feet, Zivan begins making himself dinner— Chicken broth, vegetables, various spices… The hot steam felt nice on his face, melting away the red in his cheeks. The smell of food soaks into the worn wood. After eating he finally gives the relenting dog her kibble, then goes down the list of chores to do. Water mama’s aloe, homework, the dishes, shit. What to wear? He sighs.

Zivan combs through the clothes in his closet, trying to think. What does one even wear to a club? He figured a club couldn’t have too much of a dress code. God, It’s not that deep, c’mon. He rips a pullover from the hangar and scrounges his dresser for a pair of jeans, settling for putting a red flannel over the green pullover. It’s not Christmas. He rolls his eyes at the contradiction and slips on his sneakers, then gives his watch a glance. 21:23 already. Zivan looks to Lishka, leaning down to cup the gold-fur’s muzzle in his hands. “You’ve been watching me pace,” He states, looking at her brown eyes. “Is it that interesting, hm?” No response. He smiles. Zivan kisses the dog on the top of her hand and stands back up, grabbing his keys and slipping a few marks in his pocket. He calls on Lishka again, “Don’t leave while I am gone, y’hear?” He chides, petting her. “Make sure no mice get in, please. That is what you are here for,” He reminds her, though Lishka was much more than that. “Papa’s off, alright? Be good.” He says goodbye with another kiss on the head, and locks the door behind him on the way out.

He makes his way down the flights of stairs, passing other people, and then out the front door. The night is already dark, but Zivan was comfortable enough with the streets around his home. He’s thankful the cold hasn’t brought cold yet. From his pocket, he takes the opportunity Keegan had so graciously given him. Verein Abtrünnig, Königstraße 4. Not too far away, a fee blocks north of his neighborhood. So he begins walking, crushing the dirt and rocks underfoot as he navigates between cracks in the sidewalk. He walks with his hands in his pockets, eyes turned up to enjoy the seemingly endless sky. Surely something more exciting than this was out there. The night’s bitter, thus the slight hurry in his step.

On the outside, the club wasn’t quite what you’d expect. Tall, concrete and cold, windows busted out, a tattered banner clamped in a window on the top floor. He steps off the street to the sidewalk, up the crumbling steps and through the creaky door. He turns the handle and enters, immediately noticing the vibrations in the floor beneath him, up the winding staircase. There it is. He peers his head over the railing down, seeing it spiral down to a bottom level. At the door, it swings open and voices erupt. Slurring, stumbling and arguing. Zivan observes the group of girls, one scowling.

“And so he calls me and tells me, he’s in Paris! Paris, are you kidding?!”

“Calm down, he wasn’t good to you anyways.”

“Please, he’s probably there on a visa.. Maybe he’s working at an embassy and making money?”

“Maybe I wanted to go with him to Paris.”

“Maybe he’s getting you a nice ring.”

The one scoffs, “Either way. All that bullshit for him to be in France.” They reach the top step, and the four of them stare at each other for a few moments. “What are you doing here, kid?” The blonde finally asks. “I am here to see my friend,” Zivan answers honestly, taking steps past the women and down the stairs, the old iron grates bellowing under his feet. The walls were cracked and grey, a few torn posters of bands and graffiti littering the concrete. Across from him was a single door, rapidly-changing lights coming from beneath the crack. He could already feel his palms becoming sweaty, an ache in his chest. I can’t bail now. I can’t bail now. With a hand held out, someone opens the door before he does. Zivan flinches and steps back, watching as a man and a woman exit, hardly minding him a glance. Zivan slips in their wake, immediately hit by all the noises, the light, the dingy smell of people. Regret set in instantly.

He stands there by the door, scanning the faces of people while his heart threatened to explode in his chest. Where is that idiot? Zivan weaves through people, occasionally bumping or getting an elbow in the side. This place was suffocating. He squeezes through backs and continued looking, locking onto the back of a brown-haired head he recognized. “Keegan!” He huffs, combing through more people to reach his friend, whom was sitting on a table next to a couch, people piled on. A girl in a guy’s lap, a man on the arm, and 3 women squeezed between them. As Zivan comes into the view, Keegan gives a short smile as he slips onto the table next to Keegan. “Hey, Zhukovsky, I’m surprised ya’ made it.”

23:04. The six on the couch had long evacuated, replaced by Keegan and Zivan and a new round of folk. Zivan rests his wrist back, turning to Keegan. “It’s really—“ “Waitwaitwait,” He slurs, “The song, listen to it.” Zivan becomes quiet, trying to listen to the music through the dwindled crowd.

When the clock strikes two, three, and four

If the band slows down we’ll yell for more

We’re gonna rock around the clock tonight

They’d already listened to a concerning amount of Western music. Imagine the Stasi was in the building over?

We’re gonna rock, rock, rock ‘til broad daylight

We’re gonna rock, gonna rock, around the clock tonight

“Yeah, yeah I get it—“

Keegan silences him.

Zivan furrows his eyebrows. “Keegan, It’s late, my father is probably already home.” “Psh.. he won’ say anythin’.” Zivan sighs. He was clearly more intoxicated than Zivan ever wanted to be. At least Keegan was a walk away from his home.

“I am going home, Keegan,” He tries to stand, nearly stumbling and stopping when a hand grabs his wrist, looking back to find it as Keegan. “What?” Zivan stares down at him, feeling the alcohol in his head. “Let m’walk you home, please.” He flinches at the offer, caught off guard. “You are wasted. I should be walking you home.” Zivan doesn’t even know why he suggested it, because Keegan gives a lopsided smile, taking the offer and standing, stumbling onto his friend. Zivan sighs as Keegan’s arm goes around his shoulder for stability. “You are lucky we are friends,” Zivan mutters, trying to hide his smile.

The drunk duo stumble outside, the streets almost deserted of people. It was colder now, but it didn’t seem to effect them. “Coome on, move you feet,” Zivan chides Keegan, neary dragging him across the empty street to the other side. “‘m movin’ m’feet, see ‘em?” “Yes, I see them, thank you.” Zivan holds Keegan under his arm, watching his feet to make sure he doesn’t trip over the slabs.

“Don’t be so sarcastic, Zhuk..”

“I don’t believe I am being sarcastic.”

Silence falls between them, Keegan’s head leaned into his shoulder as Zivan guides him home. He’d already sobered up plenty, not a seasoned drinker to begin with. The streets around them were still empty, only a single car had passed in the time— Which wasn’t normal, for Berlin… At the same time, it was almost midnight on a Wednesday evening. Chuff. Zivan’s eyes acutely scan the approaching intersection, paranoid— always paranoid— of Stasi driving by and finding two stumbling teenagers on the side of the road in the middle of the night.

[[ i’ll write this later because i got a call and tumblr refreshed and saved NOTHING and i am PISSED and had no motivation to write this section to begin with. promise it’s nothing important, i don’t even fucking remember half the dialogue i wrote, im so upset. ]]

“How will your parents feel?”

“They’ll be ‘sleep,”

“Okay, and Renée?”

“She’ll be ‘sleep too.”

Zivan sighs.

“Don’t be loud as shit and they’ll stay asleep.”

Keegan chuckles.

They finally approach the long driveway to Keegan’s home, walking up it and past the black Volkswagen by the peach tree. They walk up the small pathway, and he could see a small face in the front window. What was Renée doing up this late? He ignores it, letting his arm slip from under Keegan’s back as they stand in front of the stoop. Keegan leans in closer, eyebrows raised slightly.

“What are you doing?”

“Looking at you.”

“Stop.”

“Nah.”

Zivan glares, then looks away for a half beat. He could smell his bitter breath. He looks back at him, at the subtle smile on Keegan’s face. “Drink some water when you get in, I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

“Yes sir.”

Zivan gives him a small nudge on the shoulder, and reluctantly Keegan clears the steps without tripping, and takes his keys to enter the house.

The walk home was quiet. Boring. Cold. He’d be warmer with another person at his side. Zivan passed the discotheque again on the way home, living on the opposite side of it than Keegan. The lightposts were fewer and father between. Zivan crosses over a bridge, looking down at the empty lanes of the Autobahn. Not a single sound of a humming motor, eerily silent. Zivan stands there, coming down after the evening he’d had.

His eyes flicker slightly, looking down at the railing separating him from death. Back up. He’d been around Keegan when he’d been drunk before, and it wasn’t unheard of for him to disregard personal space whilst… Zivan shakes his head, and continues walking across the bridge. The singular light post casts a shadow across the road. He steps off the bridge and passes the empty playground, and walks through the sidewalk to his bloc.

AUßER BETRIEB

Zivan sighs at the broken elevator, tippimg towards the stairs and walking up. The local bum sits on the third step of the fourth floor, to which Zivan carefully steps over in order to not wake him up. He reeked of alcohol. He hits the down and then up to the ninth floor where his flat was, sighing and preparing for the wrath his father surely would unleash. It was nearly 00:30 now. He readies his keys from his back pocket, unlocking the wood-frame door.

Lishka greets him before anyone else does, and that’s how he knows he’s screwed. If Lishka was awake, so was his father. He could smell the food, too; hear the television, see the lights. Zivan sighs and closes the door, petting Lishka on the head before rounding the corner to the livingroom. His father sat on the couch. Zivan stares at the back of his head, before walking to his bedroom and simply hoping he could suppress the conversation that was going to happen.

As he’s taking his flannel off, the door clicks open and he turns to face his father.

“Where were you?”

Zivan adverts his eyes, watching an oblivious Lishka hop onto his bed and sniff the flannel.

“Uhm.. At a party.. With a friend.”

He shifts under his father’s gaze, finally meeting his eyes again. Immediately he felt bad, seeing the exhaustion in his eyes. “I’m sorry,” He apologizes quietly, knowing his father needed rest for tomorrow’s shift. Father shakes his head. Zivan wasn’t visibly drunk or high or injured, so there wasn’t much issue to be had.

“I would have appreciated it if you had told me.”

Zivan hadn’t even thought of it.

“I-I’m sorry.. I-I would have, but.. I got invited on the bus home, and then you weren’t here when I got here, and..”

“Who invited you?”

“Keegan Morgan.”

His father sighs. It wasn’t a last name he recognized, but it sounded like trouble anyways.

“Next time you get invited anywhere, stop by Post and give the message off to Strerner, and he’ll find a way to give it to me.”

Zivan flinches a little, adverting his eyes. He wasn’t too fond of getting closer to The Wall than he needed to, especially because it wasn’t in his daily routine, and he’d like to keep it that way. Still, he nods.

“Okay.”

His father’s eyes soften and he steps closer, putting a palm on the back of Zivan’s head and kissing the top. “Good night, son.” Without another word, Zivan’s father exits the room. The television is cut, the kitchen light turns off, and then his father’s bedroom door closes.

#writeblr #writers #writers of tumblr #literature #writing #and they were roommates #critique welcome #creative writing #original writing #herzkorperseele #this took me so long pleeeeeaaaaasseeee

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womanofwords · 1 year ago

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STEM Kids Shenanigans (Chapter 18)

Chapter 18: Melanie's Cousin

Dante knew from an unfortunate amount of experience that Melanie Sainsbury was bad news. She walked around the school with a hard look on her face and a prefect's badge in her hand. The badge, Dante had noticed, had a pin on the back to be pinned onto an item of clothing, but Melanie had appeared to not care about that in favour of shoving it in people's faces. When Melanie came to their meetings, it ruined everything and put them on edge for the rest of the day.

So when he heard that Melanie had a cousin that would be coming to Marbleton, he didn't have very high hopes.

"Class, this is Sonia Sainsbury, Melanie's cousin. It has been decided that she will be staying close to her cousin she she can get her bearings faster here," Mr Oluwatola said. Dante's jaw dropped. He had been expecting Sonia to be a lot like Melanie in the sense that she would be a teacher's pet, too. But here was a girl with hair a little shorter than shoulder length, dyed black with roots that were the same shade of brown as Melanie's hair. She had hoop earrings with four stud piercings on each ear.

"Hi, I'm obviously Sonia," Sonia said, waving awkwardly. "Melanie's obviously my cousin, as the teacher said, and I hope she's been nice to you."

"She hasn't," Layla said under her breath.

"Anyway, I don't like being here, this place looks awful. My parents picked it because my cousin's here, and I just want to get into the swing of things. Where do I sit?"

"You can sit at the back of the class," Mr Oluwatola said.

"No, don't! Sonia, those kids are delinquents!" Melanie wailed.

"It's her first day and you're already badmouthing us to the new girl?" Yujin asked. Her jaw was set and two small red spots were on her cheeks. "She only just got here!"

"Melanie, please stop calling the members of the STEM club delinquents," Mr Oluwatola said.

Sonia snorted. "STEM club? STEM as in science, technology, engineering, and maths?"

"Yes," Dante confirmed.

"Those are science nerds, Melanie!" Sonia declared. People laughed, and Dante breathed a sigh of relief. "And you're calling them delinquents?"

Melanie spluttered indignantly while trying to string a sentence together. "Well, yes. They've caused me a lot of trouble."

Sonia smirked as she leaned down towards her polar opposite cousin. "If you think a bunch of nerds are a lot of trouble, then you haven't seen anything yet. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm sitting with them for today."

This was going to be fun.

(PAUSE)

Things kicked off pretty quickly. Pranks erupted from one end of the school to the other, and prefects and teachers were running wild. It started in art class.

"Good morning, little ducks," Miss Powers said. Her dress was covered in printed rubber ducks, which meant her calling the class little ducks made some sense. "This will be a quiet lesson today of you all continuing with your collages. You can do collage on anything you want. The city, street art, animals-"

"Rat," someone interrupted.

Miss Powers ignored them. "Yes, rats are a kind of animal."

"No, seriously! RATS!" There were rats skittering around on the floor, big and bushy. Half of them looked like they had been on steroids.

"Class, let's leave the room and give the rats some space," the normally calm teacher said, as students screamed and evacuated the room. Some other classes were having the same problem, with students screaming and leaving hastily.

"I'll handle this," Melanie said.

"No, Melanie, you should evacuate too," Miss Powers said. "Now, let's do a head count. Line up." The class lined up as the teacher checked names off a list. "Where's Sonia?"

"I should have known that it was her. I just thought that it was the STEM club," Melanie said.

"You always blame us for stuff!" Dante said.

"And we have nothing to do with rats," Layla said, wincing with disgust.

"Miss Powers, we found this girl releasing more rats into the principal's office. She said she was supposed to be in your class," a prefect said, dragging Sonia with them. "She also said she was Melanie Sainsbury's cousin."

"Sonia," Melanie groaned, her head in her hands. "Why did you have to do this? You haven't even been here a full day, and you've already plunged the school into chaos!"

Sonia smirked. "I told you you haven't seen anything yet."

(PAUSE)

School let out early due to the huge rat fiasco that Sonia had caused, and Dante went to the library to kill time. He picked out a book of fables on autopilot and flipped to a random page. He landed on the story of the boy who cried wolf.

Reminds me of Melanie, he thought as he read it, smirking. Melanie cries wolf about us all the time, and we're never actually doing anything. I bet that even if we were doing something wrong and she found out, nobody would ever believe her. This set off a light bulb in his head. We could properly cause chaos in front of her and nobody would believe her. But where do we start?

To read the other parts of this fic, see Masterlist.

#creative writing #my writing #my WIP #writers on tumblr #writers #writeblr #writerscommunity #science nerds #science fiction #friendship #humour #autistic black boys #fantasci tumblr

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experttraining · 2 years ago

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thecountoflondonfansite · 2 months ago

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Rachel quickly shook away those woman’s words. It was obvious to her and to anyone who saw them that Dr. Two Brains genuinely loved and cherished Henry. Rachel felt silly asking Ito and a few of the other lodgers to look into the mad scientist. They would likely find nothing on the mouse man. Rachel should have figured that the woman was absolutely bonkers. She has seen mad and insane people like Hyde and a few of the eccentric lodgers. Though their madness was nothing compared to Athena’s. Rachel swore she saw pure insanity within Miss Cartwright’s eyes. A type of insanity that was held back by a false veil of normality. Henry did give in and began to talk about Two Brains with such love and fondness in his expression and voice. Rachel smiled warmly, pushing back the madwoman from her mind. She reassured herself that everything was a huge misunderstanding created by a delusional woman. The next day Henry was at school once again. He wasn’t as tired as before as he had time to play with his daughter Amber. He didn’t even stay up too late to finish his lesson plans and had time to prepare a simple review quiz for his class to take. Henry smiled and greeted his students as they entered the classroom. Henry emotionally braced himself when Becky entered the classroom. The young girl gave him a smile and wave as she greeted him. “Good morning Dr. Jekyll.” Becky spoke, unaware that her teacher now knew her most treasured secret. “Good morning as well Miss Boxleitner.” Henry greeted back, maintaining a smile despite his nervousness. Luckily, Becky didn’t seem to notice as she proceeded to head to her desk. Henry let out an internal sigh and began to teach his class just as the bell rang. “Good morning everyone. Today we are going to go over the homework from last night and later ah am going to give you a quiz. This will help prepare ye for the science test on Wednesday.” Henry exclaimed. He ignored the groans from some of his students as well as the voice inside his head. Henry Jekyll was nearly tempted to let Hyde loose on the police of this city because of their apparent laziness. Seriously, how can those bloody adults depend so much on a young child to solve all of their criminal problems! Ten times Henry saw Becky look nervous, annoyed, or flinch when she had heard what he figured to be an alarm go off. She only made excuses for about four of those times which Henry assumed was due to other heroes showing up which was a relief. The worst of those times was during the quiz. He saw Becky express moments of anxiousness and annoyance at something she could only hear. To anyone else, it looked like Becky had to take a much needed trip to the loo. Henry caught glimpses of Becky’s hands moving so fast as if they were invisible. All the while Becky casted glances around the room, making sure her powers weren’t spotted. Henry had to look away a few times and pretend he didn’t see anything when Becky looked his away. After finishing her quiz, Becky made a bathroom excuse and hurried out of the room. She came back sometime later before the bell rang for recess. The poor girl looked exhausted and upset to Henry even though she was trying to pretend everything was fine. Henry didn’t know what exactly happened but he caught Becky whispering to Violet. He had only heard her whisper certain parts such as the “Police chief was upset I was late…” “It was just Amazing Rope Guy.” This made Henry’s blood boil and he had to do everything in his power to not slam his desk in frustration nor shout in righteous anger. He also had to mask his features like everything was fine when it was clearly not! When the bell rang to end the school day, Henry marched to his car without speaking to his fellow colleagues. He opened the door, got inside, and slammed it shut before releasing his anger. “Damn these lazy and pathetic bloody peelers! Henry shouted in frustration. @unhingedexperimenter

(You can tag me on my tgs side blog. I also apologize but I know a few Scottish words. So to anyone reading this I apologize for the inaccuracy.) Becky Boxleitner noticed a change in the atmosphere as she and her pet monkey Bob walked into the sixth grade classroom. All of the students were excitedly chatting with one another. Becky and Bob exchanged confused looks at the scene. 'What is going on?' They both thought. Becky walked to where her friends Violet Heaslip, Rose Franklin, and Todd Scoops Ming were sitting, also joining in the excited yet low volume chattering. "Hey guys what's going on?" Becky asked her friends. They each turned their heads to greet their friend. "Hey Becky guess what, we're getting a new teacher for our class!" Scoops exclaimed. Becky looked surprised at the announcement. Bob also mimicked her facial expression. "Wait really? What happened to Miss Davis?" Becky asked, wondering what happened to their old teacher. It was just a week only into the new school year so a sudden teacher exchange was a complete shock to Becky especially since there were no announcements about it beforehand. "Miss Davis had to move back home because of a family emergency." Rose Franklin answered. "The principal had to scramble to find a new teacher to fill in for our class. It was all last minute stuff." Becky nodded in understanding of her friends' answers. It was a nice perk to be friends who were upcoming reporters. Soon the final bell rang which indicated for every student to take their seats. Becky took her place beside her best friend Violet and Bob plopped down next to her. Soon a man who looked to be in his mid 30s walked in and towards the desk. He had curly brown air, an arched nose, and reddish brown eyes. He wore a tan button-down shirt with a red vest as well as brown slacks and dark suede shoes. The man gave a pleasant and warm smile to all the students there. "Hello my name is Dr. Henry Jekyll and I will be your teacher for the school year." Becky and the other kids ears perked up as they took note of the man's accent. Even Tobey became slightly interested in his new teacher. None of them were sure where their new teacher was from. Dr. Jekyll gave a light chuckle as if he could sense their growing curiosity about him. He lightly clapped his hands together to gain their undivided attention and focus. "Well since this is my first time teaching here, why don't we all play a little game so we can all get better acquainted with each other. Here's what to do. One at a time, say your name and share a wee bit about yourself. Likes, family, interests and all that. I'll go first to show ya what ah mean. Again. My name is Dr. Henry Jekyll. I was born in Glasgow but ah moved to London where I attended university. I have a five year old wee lassie or daughter named Amber. I enjoy chemistry and reading on occasions. Now who would like to go next?" @unhingedexperimenter

Of course Tobey had taken the opportunity to place attention on himself and to have a reason to boast about himself. “My name is Tobey McCallister the third and I will be the most intelligent student you'll meet here.” The others had rolled their eyes, used to this kind of behavior from their peers. Becky seemed to be the most annoyed by it. Having been forced to put up with his destructive tantrums in the past. Henry smiled just as warmly as before. Unbothered by the obnoxious behavior that the boy had been displaying. Tobey had been going on about himself for a good few minutes before the teacher finally spoke up. “Ahem, yes. Thank you for that Mr. McCallister. Would anyone else like to tell me a bit about themselves as well?” No one could tell that behind the facade, Dr. Henry Jekyll was becoming more irritated by the moment. Not by the child but by the pest that refused to leave him be. Scoffing within his head at what they just heard. He didn't share the disembodied voice's opinion but wanted to give the other children a chance to introduce themselves as well. To the others' shock, Tobey seemed to have taken this well. Quickly going back to his desk with no issues. Becky was relieved at that. Soon the other children had started to introduce themselves to their new teacher with little to no issues. He seemed genuinely nice enough to her. This new teacher didn't seem like most of the adults within this city. Some she had to define words repeatedly for. Dr. Jekyll knew what he was teaching and knew his vocabulary. It was Violet who had brought Becky out from her own thoughts, calling her name. Waving a hand in front of her face. “Becky?” The girl smiled in an embarrassed manner. “Huh? Yes?” Violet smiled, patient with her best friend. “Why don't you introduce yourself now? Nearly everybody else already did.” She had given a surprised expression. Becky hadn't realized that she was so lost within her thoughts until then. She stood up and began speaking. “My name is Becky Boxleitner and I also like libraries,reading and Pretty Princess.” The presence that was grating at the teacher's nerves had deemed this too dull to enjoy. Leaving Dr. Jekyll be to his teaching. Well, getting to know his students. He was happy to see that they were engaged in these activities that were meant to break the ice. Though one student in particular had caught his attention the most. Becky. While she did seem rather bright, there was something strange about her behavior at times. Pausing whatever she was doing at the time to listen in on something. Thinking it went unnoticed. Even once looking alarmed and she made an excuse to go to the bathroom. He had allowed it. Feeling that it would've been better to have let her. It seemed…oddly familiar. As if he had seen that behavior somewhere before but couldn't figure out exactly where from. When the school day was finally over, Becky had gone to go home like the others. Dr. Jekyll had of course stayed behind to set more things up within his new classroom. Making a plan on exactly what he'll actually start teaching the next day. Though, the grating voice had returned to be a thorn in his side. “Come on. Leave this boring stuff alone. Leave it until tomorrow. I've been pent up for far too long. Let's have some fun.” This had earned an eye roll and a loud huff from the teacher. “No, I've got to get this done now. You will have enough time tonight. Just be patient until then.” A shadowy figure formed in front of Dr. Jekyll. A frown on its face. “But this is so extremely dull. I want to stretch my legs. I want to make myself known already.” Dr. Jekyll glared. “And that is precisely why I'm so hesitant to let you out so soon. At least let us get acclimated to our surroundings first.” The figure let out an annoyed groan. “You know you want this as much as I do. Otherwise you'd never have any actual fun in the sad and pathetic life you call yours.”

@thecountoflondonfansite

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jake-g-lockley · 2 years ago

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Getting Lost in Translation (Santiago ‘Pope’ Garcia x desi!reader)

Masterlist | Playlist

Warnings: Violence, mentions of torture, mentions of PTSD, mentions of trafficking (drug and human), non-sexual nudity, swearing

Word Count: 5.4 k

Summary: You go undercover with Santiago Garcia to get information about a drug/human trafficking cartel.

A/N: Take a shot every time I say “dupatta” and you’ll end up in the hospital (sorry). Also is it really a Santiago fan fic if you don't mention his gammy knees AHAHAHA <333

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Your POV

You’ve always enjoyed the quiet village life, with people who lived real lives, rather than the calculated and time managed life that you had to endure when growing up. You were grateful for your upbringing in a well-to-do household which allowed you to study and grow up in comfort.

After five years of medical school and two years working as a doctor in a city hospital, you decided that it was time to give back to the community that needed help the most. One day, you quit your job and never turned back, cutting off all contact with your family, working as an English and Science teacher at a small village in Tamil Nadu, India. You used your knowledge of languages to help the folks of the village by acting as a translator with those who offer foreign aid.

You woke up at the crack of dawn and went to bed when the moon was up high in the sky. It was tough but you loved every second of it. You were finally happy.

That was until something horrible started happening in your village. Children were going missing and you started spending your time comforting distraught parents. These were children that you taught in the small school and your heart ached with every second that they were gone.

The police had done some investigation of their own and found out that the kids’ disappearance was linked to a trafficking ring, which made you feel helpless and you almost lost yourself with the worry that you were experiencing.

Nevertheless, you had to get it together and find some type of solution to help these families, and after weeks of requesting for aid, you were finally due to meet the group of individuals who would help find these kids.

So here you were standing with the police at the airport, waiting. They had told you that they would be there at 1 pm but apparently their flight from Miami had been delayed. You nervously fiddle with your big jimmikis as your eyes scan the people coming out of arrivals. Suddenly, you spot a team of big burly western men walking towards you and the officers.

“That’s them, isn’t it, officer.” You say in Tamil to the police officer beside you.

“Yes, ma.” he replies, waving them towards where they were standing.

“Hi! I’m Y/N and I’ll be your translator while you are here.” you say, stepping up, offering your hand to the nearest of the men.

A tall man with a baseball cap that said ‘Standard Heating Oil’ took your hand and shook it, quickly introducing his team as they loaded their luggage into the trucks. “I’m Frankie, this is my team. The brothers, Benny and Will on the far left, Tom in the middle and Santiago on my right.”

“Nice to meet all of you.” you say, giving them a toothy grin, which they all returned except for the man with salt and pepper curls, Santiago. His face was arranged into a calculated and poised manner that showed little to no emotion.

You quickly translated a few conversations between the group of men and the police before getting into the van and a few minutes later, the van was speeding towards the outskirts of the city towards the village that was about two hours away. You stayed silent throughout the ride, choosing to admire the scenery outside, occasionally eavesdropping on the conversations that the men were having behind you.

They seemed like a chummy bunch and you were briefed about the field experience that they had, which made you feel slightly better about letting them take hold of the ropes and find these children. The van abruptly stops and you peak to the front to see what was going on. A cow was crossing the road, a regular occurrence here in India.

“I heard people here worship cows, Will.” one of the men says, making you turn to look at them with a disdainful look on your face.

“We do not worship cows, we respect them. Many people here consider the cow to be a sacred symbol of life that should be protected and revered.” You say, pointedly, trying not to roll your eyes at the men.

Santiago and Frankie chuckled.

“Oopsie, sorry, missy.” said Benny with a smile, leaning his weight forward onto the seat in front of him.

“See Benny, they don’t worship your girlfriend.” Will says, earning a punch from Benny.

“She said, respect boys.” Frankie said, sending an unyielding glare at the both of them. He was clearly the mother goose of the team and the other two men actually listened to him.

“You sound incredibly eloquent for someone who is living in a small rural village. What’s your story?” Tom asked.

“Studied in the UK and worked as a doctor for a few years and decided that there are a lot of people who need help in outskirt villages.” you shrug. “I also speak multiple languages to help with foreign aid.”

“Impressive.” Tom nods, approvingly.

“So you guys are used to working together?” you asked, awkwardly trying to keep the conversation a float, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

“Oh yea,” Frankie says “We’ve always been a team and we were tracking the same cartel that we think is operating throughout South India and other parts of the world for quite a while now, that's why we answered to your distress signal. We believe that it is a human trafficking organization as well as a drug trafficking organization.”

“Those poor children, I know them personally. I can’t imagine what they are going through right now.” you say biting your bottom lip, swallowing the tears that are threatening to bubble out of your eyes.

“You personally know them?” Will asks.

“Yea, they are my students,” you say. “Very bright kids, quick learners.”

Just as Frankie opened his mouth to ask another question, the van stopped again, signifying that you had arrived at your destination. You adjusted your dupatta, draping it ever so lightly over your hair, smoothed your kurta top and stepped out of the van, waiting for the men to follow you out.

You led them to the house of the village head and instructed them to remove their boots and socks before entering. Santiago groaned as he bent down to pull his socks off and you heard a light fluster of pain. You waited for him to finish and you followed him into the house.

Tom started to explain their plan, and where they are planning to infiltrate this group. You rapidly translate the information to the village head, taking down some notes yourself. You were impressed by the amount of detail put together in this plan. The intel that they had already collected showed that the children are being kept alive in a village not far from here. If everything went smoothly, the kids would be back with them. But then came the tricky situation.

“We will need someone to come with one of us to stay in the opposite village so that we can make sure that the information we got isn’t bogus without drawing attention to ourselves.” Santiago finally spoke.

You were slightly taken aback by his voice. It was soft but had an edge to it that tickled you. His slight accent sounded pleasantly melodious to your ears but still maintained an air of authority that could quiet a room in an instant. You blinked, focusing on the information that he had just said, translating it to the village head.

You wait for him to respond and you sigh when he does.

“He wants me to go.” you say to Santiago, looking him in his eyes for the first time, holding his gaze. Santiago stares back, his eyes unwavering.

“And rightfully so, you have medical skills and can pass off as a villager.” Tom says, nodding.

“Then I’ll go with you.” Santiago says.

“Do you have a plan on how you are going to disguise yourself?” you ask.

“Yea, I was thinking of going in as a deaf and mute man,” he says.

“Great, I can sign, this will go perfectly.” you say finalizing it.

“Good job, team, now we can start the preparation.” Tom said, finalizing the meeting.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

The police had gotten you and Santiago a small hut to live in at the outskirts of the opposite village for him to do his reconnaissance. You both were to pose as husband and wife and they had given you a fake thaali to be worn on a yellow string around your neck to signify your marriage. You slyly noticed that Santiago didn’t wear a ring, unlike Frankie and Tom but you assumed that he had a girlfriend somewhere in America.

“Hold still,” you tell him, wrapping your old dupatta around his face to conceal his identity. He wanted to go into the markets where most of the town gossip would buzz about. He was dressed in some clothes that were given to him by the village head and had his bulletproof vest under it.

“I am holding still, your hands are shaking.” he said, smugly.

Your hands were shaking. You were a trained medical professional and your hands were shaking. Santiago made you feel nervous. He is a very intimidating man. This whole operation made you feel nervous. You just wanted it to be over as soon as it started.

“Pin,” you held out your hand and Santiago dropped the pin into it.

You quickly pin the edge and step back to admire your handy work, and catch his eyes. He had the most beautiful baby doe eyes, framed with long eyelashes that could make any girl jealous. You stared a little too long until Santiago clears his throat.

“Done staring, chica?” He says, amusement lacing his voice.

“Wasn’t staring.” You mumbled, grabbing your saree’s pallu and draping it over your head, tucking the ends into your blouse. Turning you look at the mirror behind you and mark the parting of your hair with a little bit of red kumkum, adjusting your pottu.

“Do I look like I can pass as someone’s wife?” You say, turning back to Santiago.

“Yea, you look great.” He answered.

“That's not what I asked, but thanks.” You both walk to the market center, you gripping Santiago’s firm bicep and stirring him around. You strike up a conversation with one of the vegetable sellers.

“I’ve never seen you here before, ma.” The man says in Tamil.

“Yea, uncle, my husband and I moved here a few weeks ago, didn’t have the energy to come out. He’s deaf and mute and our child went missing a few months ago.” you answer, staring into space as your eyes teared up.

“Oh no, I’m so sorry, ma. Things like that have been happening here too, you know?” He says as you pick a few vegetables.

“What do you mean?” You sniff.

“We think it's the gang of people at the south end of the village,” he leans closer and whispers. “Children have been going missing and no one is here to defend them.”

You allowed a tear to drip down your face and you turned to Santiago and signed to him, that you have information. Paying for your vegetables, you thanked the old man and walked along the path.

“Vegetable soup again?” Santiago whispered.

“Seriously, we are undercover and that's what you’re worried about?” You hiss back.

“I’m a hungry man, chica.” he whispers back after a while. You could hear an exaggerated pout in his voice.

“Make do with what you have,” you say, as you stir him to the meat store.

“See, I knew you were nice.” He whispered, his eyes sparkling.

You rolled your eyes and bought some mutton to cook something for the man. After all, he was the one helping you and so far, everything has been going pretty good.

“Do you find me intimidating, cariño?” Santiago suddenly asks as he chopped the vegetables using his knife while you cooked the rice and mutton into something edible. You look up, not expecting his question, the both of you usually cook and eat silently. He had an eyebrow cocked up and a ghost of a smirk on his face.

“Obviously.” You say, looking back at the mutton dish.

“How so?” he persisted.

“Because you’re so, well, you? You just have that infuriatingly calm look etched on your face that doesn’t give me any information to work with. You’re obviously a military man who’s very particular about following the rules and I’ve been known to bend the rules sometimes and I’m scared that I would slip up and upset you.” You blurt out.

Silence.

“I’ll try to be less intimidating. You’re right, I am very particular about protocol but you’ve followed everything down to a T so far and all the information that you have gotten has been matching perfectly with the intel that we already have.” He says, smiling.

You smile back, absorbing Santiago’s smile. It was genuine and it was a beautiful smile. It contorted his face in a different, more healing way and it was making him seem younger than he is.

Over dinner, he told you about his boys and how they served together. He also told you all the weird things they would do, which elicited a laugh from you that echoed around the small hut.

You tell him about your life before this and how different everything was, until the both of you had sleep lulling in your eyes. You don’t remember the last thing you said before closing your eyes, but you did know that you felt significantly more comfortable with Santiago around.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

You woke up abruptly to Santiago thrashing violently in his sleep. You’re familiar with the effects of PTSD on a person, you’ve seen it many times before, but this just hurts to watch.

You grabbed his shoulders and lightly held him until he stopped shaking. His breathing softens and he opens his eyes, looking up at you and then jumping away from your grasp.

“It's ok, it was just a dream. You’re here.” you say, grabbing a hold of his hand. He reciprocated the touch by squeezing your hand.

“Sorry I woke you, cariño.” He says softly.

“It's alright, you wanna talk about it?” you say, just out of courtesy, not really expecting him to say much about it.

“My team and I came out of a very tough mission recently and I feel like I am the one to be blamed for all the mistakes that we made.” he whispers. “There were a lot of people’s lives on the line and we lost all of them because of one small error.”

You look up, shocked, not expecting a full revelation from Santiago. You mask your shock and scooch closer to him and put a hand on his back, rubbing circles.

“Hey, what happened, happened, alright? Past tense. Stay here, with me in the present.” you say soothingly. You knew nothing could change what had happened and Santiago would always have to carry that pain with him, but you tried anyway.

He nodded without a word and you both just sat in the dark for a while just listening to each other's breathing and the crickets outside.

“Go back to sleep, we have a long day tomorrow.” You whisper into Santiago’s ear.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

You let the cool water of the river envelope you with its freshness. You were used to bathing in cold water so early in the morning after living a year in the village. It helps with waking you up and you feel refreshed throughout the day.

Despite telling Santiago to sleep, you stayed awake all night staring at his sleeping face. Even though you find it hard to admit it, you were definitely harboring a small crush on Santiago Garcia. A part of you wanted to wake up every morning with him by your side. He is a very handsome man and has pretty good intentions as far as you could tell. You spent all night memorizing every single detail that was etched into his face, wondering whether each one of those lines has its own story.

Your thoughts were cut off by a sound close to your right and you grabbed the knife that you had strapped to your thigh and held it in front of you.

“Who’s there?” You say in Tamil and then repeating the line again in English while cautiously step forward from the river.

“Yo, it's just me- HOLY FUCK!!!” Santiago screamed, eyes wide, frozen to the spot.

“DUDE WHAT ARE YOU SCREAMING AT??!” You yell back at him.

Then you look down and realize that Santiago caught a full view of your very topless body. You facepalm, grabbing your towel and wrapping it around you.

“Sorry, sorry, gods Santiago, you of all people should know not to sneak up on me.” You chastise him, folding your arms across your chest.

“Pretty amazing way to start my morning though.” He says, after regaining what's left of his brain cells.

Your mouth twisted into a scowl.

“I guess we have to get even now.” You say, smugly, trying to hide your ulterior motive of wanting to see Santiago Garcia shirtless.

“Easy, your wish is my command, princesa.” He says, whipping his shirt off with one swift motion.

God damn.

Yep, exactly what you expected, sculpted by Michelangelo for the gods, even by the gods or greater than the gods. You've had your fair share of men in medical school, but nothing comes close to this archangel.

“Like what you see?” He tilts his head to catch your expression but you keep your emotions steady, not allowing them to leak onto your face.

You shrug and avoid his eyes, swooping down to grab your clothes that you wanted to wash. He pulls off his trousers and walks into the lake.

Tightening the hold of your towel, you begin to wash your saree and underclothes, hanging them to dry on a rock nearby as you watch Santiago do laps around the river, his muscles flexing. You snap yourself out of it and walk back to the small hut to change.

When you got out, Santiago had a towel wrapped around his waist, a little too low slung for your sanity. He was adjusting a mirror on the tree to shave his face.

Suddenly, you hear something to your far left and you feel like you were being watched. Your peripheral vision caught sight of the trees moving and you moved closer to Santiago.

“Santi, give me the razor, and don’t talk.” you whisper. You give him a smile and sign that there are people watching. He nodded, handing you the razor as you closed the gap.

“There is someone in the trees to our left.” You whisper as you lather the soap onto his face, caressing his jaw. He places a hand on your exposed midriff and turns the both of you around so that he is facing the trees while you start calmly shaving his face, fingers moving to taut the skin, cleaning the razor every so often trying hard not to focus on Santiago’s fingers on your skin.

You start to sing softly in Tamil, to act nonchalant, and watch as Santiago’s eyes scan the trees rapidly over your head.

“I count two to the right.” He whispers back, tilting his head up to allow you better access. You place a finger to his lips to shush him and after a while you turn his head, starting on the other side.

Are they still watching? You sign.

Santiago nods, barely.

You finish shaving his face and wipe the access soap off with your fingers, leaving a small kiss on his nose which took him by surprise but he didn’t react, knowing that they were undercover. He pulled you in for a hug and murmured in your hair “Whatever happens, just trust me”. He kisses your forehead and pulls away, giving you a small smile, grabbing onto your hand, leading you into the hut.

Once inside, Santiago rushed around to get dressed and you frantically packed all the stuff you had into the one bag that you brought, along with Santiago’s stuff and stuffed it under a pile of hay. Santiago grabbed the satellite phone and called Frankie. You watch as he paces around speaking in frantic Spanish giving orders to his team mate.

For days now he’s been in contact with Frankie, giving him the information that they have been collecting. Just before he could put the phone down, a knock sounded at the door. You tossed Santiago a dupatta and he quickly covered his face as you crossed the floor towards the door.

“Who’s there?” You say in Tamil as you open the door, revealing three men.

“Hello, kanna, we would like to ask you and your husband a few questions.” One of the men answered, smiling.

They all looked like village folk but you’ve never seen their faces before. You turned and signed to Santiago and he nodded his head. Stepping back, you grab onto Santiago’s arm and the both of you sit cross legged in front of the men.

You answered their questions with an unwavering face after telling them that your husband was deaf and dumb. You also tell them the same sob story that you had been telling the village people.

One of the men leaned forward and grabbed your thali, harshly pulling you with it as they observed it. You feel Santiago flinch beside you as you beg them to not hurt you. They push you down by your shoulders making you gasp.

“We’re going to ask you again. Who are you and who is he?” One of the men snarled into your face as you tried to recoil away.

“Please, please don’t hurt me and my husband. Don’t hurt him, he doesn’t know what's going on.” You pleaded and wailed, trying to get away from the question.

“Hey guys, look here, he's not Indian, is he?”At the corner of your eye, another one of the men had ripped your dupatta off Santiago’s face and your heart stops.

“I think we need to take these two to our boss.” You noticed that Santiago wasn’t doing anything to defend himself as they pushed him towards you.

“Don’t say anything, let them capture us.” Santiago whispers into your ear.

He was offering you and him up as bait. You looked into his eyes and went with it. Went with the trust that you had built up with him over the two and a half weeks.

You nod as the men bound your hands and blindfold you. You let yourself be dragged up by them and then they lead you out of the hut into the forest. Your bare feet hurt against the harsh forest floor but you didn’t say a single word.

After what felt like hours you hear yourself approaching different voices, not of the men who kidnapped you and Santiago. You were pushed into your knees and you heard Santiago groan beside you, slight relief spreading through you when you heard his voice.

Your blindfold was ripped off and you blinked, adjusting to the light. You first turned to Santiago who was kneeling uncomfortably beside you, his beautiful face caked with sweat, curls scruffy. Then you turned to the person who was standing in front of you, trying to decipher his features.

“What do we have here? An American and a village woman. What an unlikely pairing.” He says in English. “Let me get straight to the point. Tell us who you are and we will decide our next course of action.”

Santiago stayed silent, staring up at the man, gaze unflattering.

“Military? CIA? Police? RAW?” The man stepped closer to you, lifting your chin up to face him. He was a big bald man with a giant mustache.

You and Santiago stay silent.

“Looks like we have to bring out the big guns.” The man says, gesturing to his henchmen.

“You don’t have to worry, chellam, I don’t hit women.” He says to you, squeezing your cheek, your eyes widening with fear.

Then the torture started. They started to hit Santiago with such brutality that you couldn’t help but scream. It went on for so long and you screamed at them to stop until your throat was sore.

Santiago was bloody and battered and yet, he still didn’t say a single word. After a while the henchmen gave up, throwing the both of you into a closed cell.

Santiago’s POV

The room around him spun uncontrollably and pain soared through him in horrible waves. He felt like he was reaching a light, trying to grasp it. No. It wasn’t a light, it was a sound. He tried grasping onto it, but it kept slipping away. Then he felt it, a soft nudge beside him and he grasped onto the sound, letting it envelop him.

It was her voice. She was pleading with him to stay with her, stay in the present, like she did yesterday when he awoke from the horrible nightmare. She was saying his name, and he clung onto that, the way it rolled off her tongue melodiously and reached his ears, canceling out all the ringing that he had been listening to for the past few minutes, or hours.

He slowly opened his eyes, and focused on her form. She looked relatively unhurt but he could vaguely see tears streaming down her beautiful face. He tried to tell her that he was ok, but all he could do was taste iron in his mouth. He spat out the blood and shook his head, breathing in and out to steady the spinning.

“Santiago, I need you to listen to me,” Y/N says, kicking her legs over his own outstretched ones. “I need you to pull my saree over my thigh and grab the knife that’s strapped to it.”

He nodded, still trying to process.

“Santi, come on, look at me, pull.” She whispers frantically, shaking her legs.

His head snapped up at her again and he fumbled with her saree, trying to pull it up to gain access to the knife. Finally after several tries, he pushed the fabric over where the knife was and pulled it, holding it in front of him, unsure of what to do next.

“Come on, free yourself.” She instructed and he turned the knife towards his bounded hands, autopilot taking over as he sawed himself loose.

He leaned back, trying to blink away the pain as he focused on freeing her, so as to not cut her.

The second he frees her, he hears gunshots and yelling. He laughs, completely delirious to the pain.

“My boys are here.” He says as he slips into unconsciousness.

Your POV

Santiago falls back as you feel your hands slip out of the restraints. You hear him mumble something incoherent as you swung our legs off his own and start slapping him to keep him awake.

“No, no, no, stay with me, you idiot.” You hiss, feeling his pulse. It was there, but faint.

You pull his shirt up and run your fingers over his body in the dark, checking for any cuts. You feel something warm and wet, pulling back to smell the familiar twang of iron. You pull the pallu of your saree off your shoulder and use it to stem the bleeding, pressing hard with one hand, the other still slapping Santiago’s face.

“Pope! Y/N! Where are you guys?” A familiar voice called out.

“Frankie! Frankie, in here, in the cells, Santi’s bleeding out, please, I need a med pack, stat!” You yell as loud as your sore throat could handle.

Frankie appears in front of you with full tactical gear and shoots the lock of the cell. In seconds, he got a flashlight and the med pack out. You examined the wound under the dim stream of light and it was still beading with blood.

You instruct Frankie to douse the wound with disinfectant and your hands as you thread a needle. As fast as you possibly could, you sewed the wound shut.

You sigh and turn to Frankie, shaking your head.

“I know, he’s a little stupid, but you’ll get use to it.” He smiles down at his unconscious friend. “We got the kids and the others are currently doing a headcount.”

“How did you guys find us?” You say, holding onto Santiago’s hand.

“He has a tracker on him and after that frantic phone call, we traced you guys here. Let me guess, he refused to speak?” He says, squinting at where your hand was.

“Yep, didn’t say a single word, the stubborn man. Your timing is impeccable. I couldn’t imagine what would have happened if you didn’t turn up in time.” You say, your eyes welling up with fresh tears again.

“Hey, it's alright, let's get this man to the hospital, okay?”

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

“Hey.” You hear a voice and you sit up immediately, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes.

“Hey, yourself. Do you know how stupid that was?” You glare at the man on the bed in front of you.

“Mmm, kinda, but we’re alive right?” He says, giving you a smile.

You roll your eyes, biting your cheek to prevent yourself from smiling back at him. His eyes went slightly glassy as if he was thinking about something.

“What are you thinking about?” You couldn’t stop yourself from asking him, snapping him out of his daze.

“Your tits.” He replied without hesitation.

“¿Qué? You know what, nevermind, I don’t even want to know.” Frankie says, making Santiago snap his head to his left where Frankie was lounging on a chair.

You massage your temples, embarrassment creeping up your face.

“Oh, hi Catfish, didn’t see you there.” Santi grins.

“Well, good morning to you too, cabrón.” he says getting up and giving Santiago a kiss on his forehead, making him cringe into the pillows and you giggle at the sight.

Frankie left the room, closing the door behind him, not before uttering “No monkey business, you two.”

“Asshole,” Santiago chuckles, before turning back to you.

“You’ve got a lot of admirers who visited you.” you say, scanning his face.

You were so glad to be present during the reunion of the children and their parents. All of the children were relatively unharmed but the bruises on their wrist signified the burden of the trauma that they had to carry for the rest of their lives.

Santiago shifts and pats the bed. You hesitate, but eventually climb in, snuggling lightly into his side.

“I have to admit, you are growing on me, Pope.” You mutter as his good arm pulls you closer.

“Mmm, I know.” He whispers, kissing your forehead.

“If you pull a stunt like that again, I swear, I will kill you myself.” You say in Tamil.

“I think we’re getting lost in translation, cariño.” He mumbles into your hair, slipping back into sleep.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Translation:

Jimmikis: A style of earring worn by women of the Indian subcontinent.

Ma: Indians usually call all women “ma”, can be a term of endearment but also is used casually.

Thaali: A mangala sutra, or thaali, is a necklace that the groom ties around the bride's neck in the Indian subcontinent. The necklace serves as a visual marker of status as a married Hindu woman. Mangala sutra's origin dates back to the 6th Century AD as a single yellow thread was tied around the bride for protection from other men and evil spirits. The term mangala sutra in Sanskrit means holy thread.

Dupatta: The dupattā is a shawl traditionally worn by women in Indian subcontinent to cover the head and shoulders

Chica: Girl

Saree: A sari or saree is a women's garment from the Indian subcontinent,that consists of an un-stitched stretch of woven fabric arranged over the body as a robe, with one end tied to the waist, while the other end rests over one shoulder as a stole, baring a part of the midriff.

Pallu: The loose end of a sari, worn over one shoulder or the head

Kumkum: AKA sindoor. Kumkum is a powder used for social and religious markings in India. It is either made from turmeric or saffron. The turmeric is dried and powdered with a bit of slaked lime, which turns the rich yellow powder into a red color. Kumkum is most often applied by Indians to the forehead

Pottu: A bindi or pottu is a coloured dot or, in modern times, a sticker worn on the center of the forehead, originally by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains from the Indian subcontinent.

Cariño: Sweetie

Princesa: Princess

Kanna: Sweetie

Chellam: Darling

¿Qué?: What?

Cabrón: Dumbass

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viktorybell · 3 years ago

Text

Modern Wonder

Modern!Viktor x Art Teacher!Reader (GN)

Word Count: 3.4k

Warning: nothing, but there’s a slightly suggestive joke at the end

Piltover’s Science Museum was truly a modern wonder. It was probably the biggest museum they had in the entire city, and most definitely had the most care put into its exhibits. Hundreds of years of progress and discoveries all documented there in one building. You’d been dying to go and explore the building for ages, never finding time in your busy schedule for it. So, when the opportunity happened upon you, you’d swiped it up as quickly as you could.

It would have been a perfect trip too…that is, if you didn’t have about twenty hyperactive fourteen year olds dragging you around the Museum’s ‘Young Mind’ section for the last hour.

Suddenly, your overwhelming enthusiasm for the museum was dampened by the constant noise coming from your kids. Whether it was them laughing and messing around way too close to a fragile exhibit or literally running through the museum like the windows of the building alone didn’t cost more than your feeble art supply budget.

The most embarrassing part was how miserable of a tour guide you were. If this were the art museum on the other side of town, you would have killed it. You could name the artists of the work being displayed there right now, but the second one of your students asked what ‘inertial force’ means, you were done for.

Because you were an art teacher. An art teacher for a severely underfunded high school on the border of Zaun and Piltover. An art teacher who had stupidly volunteered to chaperone a group of freshman for this year’s big field trip. An art teacher who was so glad it was time to sit down, they could have cried.

Most of the trip was exploring the museum itself, but there were a few scheduled activities you had to usher your rambunctious group to. On the schedule it said something pretentious like ‘Men of Progress: Live Demonstration of Up and Coming Blah Blah Blah.’ You literally have no fucking clue what that’s supposed to mean and the title is so long you didn’t bother reading it through. All that mattered is that when you entered the lab, there were rows of chairs set up. They were all facing a large counter, similar to the kind they had back at the high school’s lab, but much newer.

“Y’all are big kids so I’m not assigning seats, but stick to the same general area, please.” You glanced back at the teens following you like lost ducks and gestured towards the folding chairs.

“Can I sit next to you?” One of the smaller students with a choppy, bright blue haircut asked, tugging on your messenger bag. You recognized her from your beginning art class. She was sweet when she wanted to be and an utter menace, also when she wanted to be, but art meant the world to her and it was something you could relate to. “I want to point at you and draw attention when they ask for volunteers.”

Aaaaaand there’s the menace.

“You can totally sit with me, Jinx, but if you do that shit I’m taking you up there with me,” You rolled your eyes as she burst into giggles. Menace.

A couple other groups filed in and got settled as well, along with the few random people that had decided to come to the museum midday on a random thursday. Then the lights in the back half of the room dimmed and a tentative hush fell over the audience as two men wearing cheesy lab coats and goggles on their head popped into the room, coming to stand at the front next to the counter.

The taller of the two was carrying a large plastic tub while the other had a clipboard tucked under the arm he was using to lean on a cane, waving with his free hand.

“Good afternoon, everybody!” The taller one projected as he set the tub onto the counter. “I’m Dr. Jayce Talis and this is my partner. They call us…the Hexbros!!”

“They do not call us that. Dr. Talis calls us that,” Soft laughter filled the room as the second man spoke up, his light accent catching your attention.

“Thanks, pal,” Jayce rolled his eyes good naturedly before beginning to unpack the box, spreading out a myriad of different objects. “We’re both from Piltover’s Academy and once every month we come to help out at the museum! Are you guys ready for some science?”

Jinx literally screams at the top of her lungs in response, and all you can do is cover your mouth and laugh at her enthusiasm.

“Energetic crowd today, yeah? My name is Viktor and today we’ll be doing a couple of demonstrations, the first of which requires a volunteer. Do we have any takers?” Viktor scanned the crowd, looking among the sea of arms that immediately shot up, most of them your students. You shot a quick glare at Jinx and she smiled sheepishly at you but she just raised her hand. Agreeing, at least for the moment, not to draw attention to you.

Viktor continued glancing over the crowd, making a big show of stroking his chin and humming as he did so. His eyes flitted over you and you could’ve sworn they doubled back, but you were too taken aback by the color of them to know for sure. You’d never seen such bright golden eyes like that before, they were striking. Trying to ignore the jolt of interest that Viktor sparked, you turned your attention back to where Jayce was setting up some kind of experiment using three glasses of water.

At random, the scientist chose a student from a different group and they came up to help with the experiment. Which is how the demonstration went over the course of half an hour. They’d pick a volunteer while setting each activity up, go through with the experiment, then explain the science behind it through witty banter while they cleaned it all up afterwards.

None of their demonstrations were particularly complicated, similar to something you’d see at a middle school science fair, but the two inventors at the front of the room were entertaining enough that it held everyone’s attention. Jayce had the golden boy look about him, playing it up with a charming smile and a disarming way of speaking. While Viktor was the polar opposite, the moon to Jayce’s sun, the cynical partner of the group with a dry humour that had you snorting more than once through the show.

“Our last experiment for the afternoon is the most simple one yet, though it always receives a standing ovation,” Viktor explained to the crowd as Jayce pulled out a bag of balloons, a box of matches, and a pitcher of water.

“You wanna blow up the balloon, Vik?” Jayce asked, pulling one from the pack.

Without even looking at him, Viktor shook his head. “You’ve got more than enough hot air to fill them with, Jayce. All you.”

You swear you nearly bit your tongue with how quickly you had to stop yourself from laughing obnoxiously. Obviously not well enough seeing as it still drew Viktor’s attention and now he was sending a quick smirk in your direction. What was Jayce doing? You should look at Jayce now. God, it’s so stuffy in this room. When’s the show over, again?

In the time it took to pull yourself together again, Jayce had blown up the balloon and held it up, Viktor at his side with the matchbox.

“I require an audience response for this one, what do you think will happen if I were to light this match and touch it to the side of the balloon?” Viktor asked and held the match out for everyone to see.

There was various shouts from the students, most of them convinced the balloon would pop. Viktor nodded thoughtfully as he took in their answers.

Quickly, he struck the match against the side of the box, effortlessly lighting it and touching it to the bottom of the balloon where Jayce was holding it upside down. With a loud bang, it popped, making a few people in the crowd yelp.

“Most of you were right! So we filled a balloon with air and when touched with a lit match, it popped,” Jayce grinned, tossing the scraps and burnt match into the trash. “What do you all hypothesize will happen if we put water in the balloon?”

The audience starts to get excited, some of the kids in the row behind you halfway out of their chairs as the students shout out their answers, this time the group is an even mix of ‘it won’t! It will!’

“It’s not gonna pop!” Jinx yelled from beside you. She’d been thoroughly invested through the entire ordeal, but especially so after Viktor grinned mischievously at the crowd and asked;

“Do we have a brave volunteer willing to test this out?”

Jinx leaped to her feet, both hands pointing and waving frantically as she borderline screamed your name.

Your jaw. Drops. She had to have been holding this in the entire show. She had heeded your warning and only raised her hand for herself the entire time, even getting to go up and assist with the pendulum experiment, but now all bets were off.

Immediately, both Viktor and Jayce turned to face Jinx who is now jumping up and down.

“This is my art teacher! Pick my art teacher!!” Jinx yelled out.

You cover your face with your hands. Trying to ignore that, along with the two scientists, everybody else is staring at you. It felt like you were three seconds from spontaneously combusting.

“Jinx,” You whisper yelled through your hands. “Sit down. I’m begging.”

“It seems we have a very enthusiastic volunteer!” Viktor sounded amused and also much closer than he had just a minute ago.

Your hands fell from your face only to be replaced with Viktor’s outstretched hand. At some point, in all of Jinx’s dramatics, Viktor had made his way from the front of the room to where you sat in the front row of chairs. Your gaze flicked between his hand and his face as he peered down at you expectantly. From this close you could see two moles on his face, a detail you never would have been plagued with if your students didn’t have it out for you.

Jinx was gripping your arm now, shaking it back and forth and begging for you to go up there. Some of the other kids in your group were in on it too now. The things you did for your students.

Begrudgingly, you placed your hand in Viktor’s letting him help pull you to your feet. Jinx lets out a triumphant ‘WOO!’ as she flops back into her seat and excitedly watches as you and Viktor head over to the front of the room, where Jayce has placed a single chair.

“You’re going to be very popular with your students after this,” Viktor hummed, only loud enough for you to hear as Jayce struggled to get the riled up crowd’s attention.

You glared at him, the effect ruined by the smile you couldn’t bite down on. “Why do I feel like I’m heading to the gallows right now?”

Viktor barked out a laugh and gestured for you to sit in the chair. Your stomach dropped.

“It seems we’ve got our brave volunteer!” Jayce grinned as you reluctantly settle into the chair. From behind you, you could hear Viktor’s cane tapping the floor as he headed back to the counter, presumably to set up the second balloon. “Have you got a name, oh mysterious art teacher?”

You gave him your name and he repeated it back louder so the audience could hear, behind you was the sound of a balloon being blown up.

“And do you think the balloon will pop, yes or no?” Viktor asked from the counter, sounding more than a little amused.

“Well I was sitting next to an incredibly smart girl during this whole experiment, and she says it’s not going to pop, so I trust her judgment,” You smiled, watching as Jinx wiggled happily in her seat, having pulled her knees up to her chest as she watched in anticipation.

“Or maybe she just wants to see her favorite teacher get soaked,” Viktor hummed back thoughtfully, coming back into your line of sight with a second balloon. This one was blown up and tied, held upside down just like the first had. The only difference between this balloon and the other, was the water you could see sloshing around the lower half.

“I appreciate your strength in this scary situation, but don’t worry, we haven’t popped a water balloon all morning!” Jayce reassured you, taking the balloon from Viktor and holding it over your head.

“But there’s always a possibility,” Viktor countered while pulling out a match from the box. “Any electronics in your pockets you’d like to remove before we test your hypothesis?”

Thankful for the warning, you tugged your phone from the pocket of your jeans and handed it to Viktor, who put it in his pocket for safe keeping.

“Hold your breath!” Jayce teased as Viktor lit the match.

You did exactly that, squeezing your eyes shut as you fully tensed, arms folded to your stomach like that’d stop the balloon from dumping its contents over your head. The crowd was deadly silent as Viktor reached over and slowly pressed the flame to the very bottom of the balloon and…

Nothing.

The balloon didn’t pop.

Almost immediately the students started making noise, a chorus of ‘awww man’ coming from your kids in particular. You let out a deep breath, relaxing your shoulders.

“Oh my god, you guys had me so nervous,” You groaned, chuckling a bit to yourself as you sat back in the chair fully, glancing at Viktor where he still held the match to the bottom of the balloon. He smiled back down at you.

“Ah, yes. You must have gotten lucky today,” Viktor nodded before removing the match and pressing it into the empty top half of the balloon, popping it over your head and utterly drenching you in freezing water.

Your kids went. Insane. It was pure chaos.

From under the loud din of about sixty something high school kids cheering, you could hear both Viktor and Jayce laughing.

“Oh it’s funny, huh? ‘Cause I’m about to be hilarious,” You warned, flicking the water out of your eyes with your equally wet hands.

“And that’s my cue to go grab a towel!” Jayce said, booking it to the counter just as you stood up from your chair.

“Hey-what, no! You can’t just leave me here! This is ableist Jayce!” Viktor protested. He was laughing a little too hard to back away from you, now was your chance.

“Are you a hugger, doc? You seem like a hugger,” You grinned, grabbing the same hand he’d used to pull you from your chair earlier to pull him into a bear hug.

Immediately he yelped, trying to jump away from where the cold water you were drenched in transferred to the front of his shitty lab coat. “Ah, how kind of you!” Viktor chuckled, gingerly patting your back.

“Aw, c’mon guys. I’ve only got one towel!” Jayce whined as he came back over with a towel that, while sorely needed, is not going to be enough to dry all of your clothes.

You pulled away from Viktor, satisfied that you’ve at least gotten his jacket wet and also ignoring how warm he had felt. Nodding at your handiwork, you accepted the towel from Jayce. They both thanked you for your participation and you headed back to your seat.

Viktor was right, though, you were extremely popular for the rest of the day.

Jinx was practically as glued to your side as she could be without actually touching you and your awful damp clothes. It was almost worth it. Almost. You really despised walking around the last few sections of the museum feeling like a drowned rat.

“Are you gonna ride the bus back to school with us?” Jinx asked as you recounted your group in the lobby, making sure everyone was accounted for.

The buses had finally arrived and it was time to cram the students back in three to a seat and head back to the school.

“I’m sorry, Jinx. There’s not enough room for all the chaperones on the buses, I volunteered to drive myself.” Jinx gave you puppy dog eyes and you laughed at her dramatics. “You’ll see me in class tomorrow, stop pouting.”

That seemed to cheer her up as she held out her fist for a quick fistbump before chasing after the rest of her group where they were piling into the bus. You watched them walk off, standing in front of the museum and wondering what you had in your car to cover your seat with so it didn’t end up just as wet as you did.

“Wait!”

You turned as your name was called out, finding none other than Viktor trying to speed through the lobby towards you.

“Viktor?” You asked, meeting him halfway. He wasn’t wearing the lab coat anymore, instead he was wearing a form-fitting, black button down with a red tie. It fit him a lot better than the baggy white coat he’d been practically swimming in earlier.

Like, it fit him a LOT better. Wow. Oh shit, he was talking to you, focus.

“-everywhere for you, I’m so glad I could catch you before you got on the bus. I didn’t know how else to-”

“Woah, Viktor, it’s cool. I’m not even getting on the bus,” You jerked your thumb over your shoulder to where the buses were currently pulling out. “What’s up?”

“Your phone, it was still in my pocket from earlier,” Sure enough, Viktor pulled your phone from the pocket of his slacks, handing it over.

You took it from him gratefully. “Oh my god, I hadn’t even realized I’d left it behind. Thank you so much, you didn’t have to go hunt me down to give it back.”

“Nonsense, it’s the least I can do after I got you wet like that in front of all those people.”

Dead silence.

You couldn’t bite back the laugh that shot out of you, hand coming up to cover your mouth as you watched Viktor’s face slowly turn red.

“You-I, let me rephrase.” Viktor stumbled over an excuse and you couldn’t hold back your laughter anymore.

“Nah, I get what you mean, doc,” You took mercy on him and he smiled sheepishly at you.

He seemed different now that it was just the two of you, shyer than he had been when he was with his lab partner, popping a water balloon over your head in front of a live audience. It was like there was something else he had to say, something trapped just behind his brain to mouth filter that he was struggling to push past.

“I better check and make sure everything’s here, I’m not sure if I trust you after that balloon incident,” You teased, turning your phone on to scroll through your contacts.

“Wh-? I’d never!”

“Oh, yeah? Then why am I missing a number in here, huh?”

“What? Let me see that, I promise you I didn’t even touch your phone before I brought it here. Who’s number is missing?” Viktor huffed as he stepped to your side and peered over your shoulder at your phone screen.

“It’s yours.” You grinned, waving the phone at him. The screen was pulled up to create a new contact.

Immediately Viktor was red-faced again. He was trying to glare at you, but it was ultimately weakened by the smile he couldn’t fight off. “That was an utterly awful pick-up line.”

Regardless of how awful it had been, Viktor took your phone and started typing his number in.

“It can’t possibly be worse than picking me out of a crowd to pop a water balloon over my head in front of my students,” You countered. Viktor chuckled in response as he handed back your phone.

“You might have me there,” He conceded. “I’ve got to get back to my lab now, but do try calling if you ever want me to, uh, get you wet, again. As it were.”

It was your turn to stutter out a response, nearly dropping your phone. As you were trying to piece a witty retort together, Jayce pulled up in front of the museum in a shitty camry.

“Ah, that’s my ride. Have a good evening!” Viktor smirked, every bit aware of the effect he had over you in this moment as he walked to the passenger side of the car and hopped in.

You watched the two pull off, trying to gather your thoughts as they shrank into the distance.

Piltover’s Science Museum was truly a modern wonder.

#viktor #viktor arcane #viktor x reader #viktor x male reader #viktor x fem!reader #viktor x gn reader #jinx #jayce talis #gn!reader #arcane #the arcane #jinx arcane #arcane fic #modern arcane au

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