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lure-of-writing · 10 months ago

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Kick your ass

Note: Hi everybody long time no see! I would assume that is doesn't come as a surprise when I say being a flight attendant leaves no room for writing much less doing anything else but sleeping but here we are after what I'm sure can be counted as forever. Anyways I feel like this story is when your partner just isn't getting it right and it's driving you crazy and you get a little ( or a lot) sassy. I'm so happy to have finally written something in so long and I hope you love it!

Word count-2.3K

Warnings- none unless you count cussing

Summary: Lately all your mate does is piss you off. And don't get it wrong you love him but you are more than ready to kick his ass.

You love Azriel with all of your heart, your whole being if you're being completely honest but lately he has done nothing but piss you off. It first started with him going on a mission during the middle of your cycle. Since the moment you knew Azirel was your mate you gave clear explicit instructions that Azriel was to be no more than five feet away from you during that time of the year unless it was for something of the utmost importance and could not be handled by anyone else. Imagine your surprise when he started grabbing his leather clothing after he had made you breakfast and had gotten you comfortable in your bed that could fit three grown Illyrian men.

“And just where do you think you're going?” Azriel could feel like distaste dripping off of your words and hitting him in the back as he was faced away from you. It was no secret that Azriel loved you more than life itself and would do absolutely anything to keep you safe and happy but when you were on your period you could be a handful and more often than not you tested his never ending patience until you actually found the end of its supply. With a slow release of his breath he turns around to find you perched on the edge of the bed throwing an angry glare in his direction. “Listen baby” the shadowsinger slowly approached you like you were a wild animal ready to strike at any moment and honestly that comparison isn’t too far off with the way you look like you're ready to rip his head off of his shoulders. “You know I wouldn’t go unless I had to, yeah?” he kneels before you gently rubbing comforting circles on your bare thigh while giving you a soft smile reserved for only you. “Is the information you retrieve from this mission of that great value?” he watched as you paused waiting for the answer that both he and you already knew. “Is there no one else beneath you who could do it instead?” And while yes there were people beneath him that could handle this task, Azriel is a perfectionist and would like to make sure things get done right. “Is it so important that you must leave your mate during their cycle knowing the excruciating pain I endure? It's so important you must put this before your mate?”

Azriel knew this conversation was a losing battle on his end but he also knew if he would like to be able to sleep next to you tonight that he must offer something to make up for it. “No my love, there isn’t anyone else who can handle this as they are all busy at the moment but don’t worry I will be back before dinner.” Even as you glowered down at him all the shadowsinger could think about was two things. One, he is definitely in trouble and two, how stunning you look. “I don’t care if no one else can do it, get that brute of your brother to handle it.” You waved your hand in a dismissive way as if to send Cassian on this mission yourself and Azriel couldn’t help but lay his head on your legs and laugh and your attitude.

The next time Azriel made you mad was during a family dinner with the inner circle. At first with all the new people, family dinners were a little awkward and unbearable mostly due to Cassians pinning over Nesta and her constant blatant rejection but also because of the middle sister's fascination with your mate. Did she know he was your mate? Yes. Did that stop her from having a crush? Absolutely not.

As you were getting ready to head down to Feyres and Rhysands new house you had made it clear he needed to put his foot down and tell Elain he was not and would never be interested in a relationship with her otherwise you would handle it yourself and Azriel knew that meant you would become your own nasiter version of Nesta and you would tear her down until she couldn’t even look you in the eyes. It may not be the best way to handle her crush but until Azriel when it came to dealing with people who had a crush on him you tended to leave your manners at the door.

Everything was going well at the river house until you walked into the dinning room with Amren and spot your mate seated next to Elain on one side and Mor on the other side. The whole group could feel the shift in the temperature as it dropped and you gave a cold and pointed stare to your mate. Possessing the same powers as Rhysand you barged into his mind “What the hell is this?” without responding he gently shakes his head in a not right here manner and pleading with his eye for you to just let this go. Silently you take your seat across the table from him and sit next to your high lady and Amren. For the rest of the dinner you say nothing as your pin Azriel to his seat as your seething anger radiates off of you and hits him like a tidal wave over and over again never once giving him a break.

“Y/n” Azriel had waited until after you had taken your bath and done your fifteen step skin and body care route and had gotten into bed with your current book you picked to read before approaching you. He gently sat down on the bed next to your legs and hopped you don;t make him sleep on the couch tonight. “I know you're upset with what happened at dinner but it just happened one minute I was talking with Mor and the next Elain was ushering us all in to eat dinner and she just happened to sit next to me.” As he gave his explanation of the night's events you had closed your book and laid it in your lap and nodded silently in understanding waiting for your mate to be done talking. “Is that so?” you asked in a thoughtful way. Now Azriel has been with you long enough to know that tone of voice and that statement should strike the fear of every god into him and it definitely did. “Yes, I promise that's what happened.” Once again you nodded in understanding before tilting your head to the side with a confused look on your face. “So if that's all that happened then why would Elain feel comfortable sitting next to you knowing that you have a mate who cannot stand her crush on you? And didn’t I tell you to make sure Elain knew in no uncertain terms that her fantasy of having a relationship with you was nothing more than a fantasy and if she tried I would kill her?” Azriels heart dropped to his stomach as he listened to you talk, he had known that there was something he needed to do but as soon as he entered the house Cassian gave him a cup of a mysterious alcohol and Rhysand had beckoned him over to fill him in on the status of a mission one of his spies were on. And before he knew it Morrgian had whisked him away to talk about her journey on the continent and the information she had obtained while there and the next thing he knew he was sat between the girl he used to have a crush on and the girl who currently has a crush on him. Candidly he knew he was fucked.

“Let's go with your version of events like you said they happened shall we? I am going to assume you got too busy with everyone to tell Elain to knock off her childish behavior, which you would have done in a much nicer way because you are you. Then why didn’t you say anything to her when I walked in or better yet why didn’t you get up to sit next to me instead?” As a professional interrogator your mate knew you had just walked him into a trap and for a split second he wondered why you didn’t have his job instead. “Baby you know both of those options would have been rude and probably would have ruined the dinner.” Nodding in fake understanding you inspect your nails giving it a brief second before responding “And you are the shadowsinger of the night court. One of the most feared males in Prythian and you couldn’t muster up the courage to say something to Elain? How ironic is that.” You scoffed and shook your head in a surprised manner and needless to say he ended up sleeping on the couch that night.

The last straw was watching Azriel train the valkyries and watching them not so subtly drool over your mate. You wouldn’t be one to blame them if they had done so in a respectful way but they were bluntly flirting with your mate right in front of you. One thing you loved about Azriel was how secure he was in your relationship. No one could make him look in the direction that wasn’t you, if someone was trying to flirt with him he didn’t register it unless it was you. And normally you wouldn’t have a problem with that except three girls were currently trying to make a pass at him and he had no reaction. Most would take that in a positive way but not you, you wanted him to shut that down the second it started and make a clear line in the sand on what was expected from the student-teacher relationship amongst him and the Valkyries he was training. “Azriel!” You had barely shouted his name from across the training platform on the house of wind but it felt as if you had. He turned around to see you leaned against the wall with your arms crossed over your chest and face set in a scowl while glaring at him. Turing to look at the trainees before him he instructs them on what to do next before quickly making his way to you. “Yes my love?” he asks in such a hushed and concerned tone that you almost forget what you called him over to yell at him about, but over his shoulder you see one of the girls check him out and suddenly you remembered all over again what it was that you needed to speak to him about. “You need to tell your students to stop checking you out and to close their mouths before they start drooling all over themselves.” Your mate's face scrunched in confusion. Azriel may be an excellent observer but when it came to himself not so much. He couldn’t see his own beauty that was hand crafted from the gods themselves, he couldn;t see how his quiet and standoffish personality drew people in, he couldn't see all of the things that you loved about him could all be the reason that other people lust after him.

His shadows gave him a play by play of what his students had been doing while he wasn’t focused on each person in particular and how you had been brewing in your anger in the corner by yourself. As soon as you put on your fighting leathers this morning Azriel knew he was doomed as it was your ritual to fight each other everyday during training but seeing you in the corner pissed that other people had been checking him out brought his demise to a whole nother level. Azriel subtly glanced down at where your arms were crossed over your chest and he thanked the gods for your outfit. “You sound a little upset, my love.” Once more you send him one of your signature pointed looks “Yeah you would be upset also if the roles were reversed.” He shrugs slightly while tilting his head and wrapping his arms around your waist to pull you closer to his body. “You’re not wrong I would be upset because nobody gets to look at you that way unless it's me.” He pulls you even closer to his body until you’re chest to chest with him and he bends down to whisper in your ear. “Beat me in a match and I will make sure they know I’m no one else's but yours. I'll let you claim me anyway you want, hell I’ll even let you do it in front of them if that will make you feel better.” Both you and Azriel knew the game he was playing at but neither of you cared, well him less than you. You pulled away slightly to look up at your mate and see the smirk resting upon his very kissable looking lips “Sounds like a deal to me because I’ve been wanting to kick your ass all week.”

The shadowsinger followed behind you with a laugh and he shook his head in amusement while taking in your figure from behind. He watched as you got into your fighting stance and waited for him to do the same. He held his hand up to signal you to give him a moment. Turning around to look at the Valkyries in training he gathered their attention without saying a word. “I think it's about time to see what the last remaining real valkyrie looks light during a fight and maybe then you can aspire to be a fraction of as good as my beautiful mate is.” He turned back around to see you glowing with confidence, determination and love, but also the want to make sure you won his bet. Gods he knew this was going to lead to some great sex after you kicked his ass and he couldn’t be looking forward to it more.

#acotar imagine #acotar x reader #acotar x you #azriel acotar #azriel x reader #azriel fanfic #azriel imagine #azriel one shot #azriel shadowsinger

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lovelynim · 1 year ago

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TickleTober2023/Day 20 - Curse

Jujutsu Kaisen - Suguru Geto x Satoru Gojo

Satoru was, by far, the best companion Suguru had at the Jujutsu High. Not that he disliked any of his colleagues, but there was something different in their relationship. That being said, Satoru could also be a huge and annoying pain sometimes.

And this was one of these times.

“Come ooooon,” Satoru whined, poking Suguru’s cheek over and over. “You collect a ton of them, why can’t you spare one for me to play with?”

Suguru sighed, looking at the white-haired guy with the corner of his eyes. “Don’t you have anywhere else to be? It’s better if you practiced against another pers-”

“I don’t want to practice,” Satoru whined loudly, looking like a kid throwing a tantrum. Heavens, he was really testing out Suguru’s patience this time. “I want to play, it’s different!” A cheeky smile took place in his face. However, when the curse’s master paid attention to his partner, he could see through Satoru’s dark glasses, spotting the malice in his eyes. “You know what I mean, don’t you?”

“Fine,” Suguru said, remembering a particular curse that would be useful to entertain the mighty Satoru. “But I have one condition,” he said, looking at the other guy with a grin. “You can’t fight it.”

“Haaah?! How is that any fun?”

“Just take its attacks like a man, or are you scared it might end up killing you? I want to test your endurance,” Suguru said with a twisted intention, but he also knew how effective it was to taunt Satoru into these kinds of things.

“Whatever,” Satoru huffed, getting back into his feet and taking a few steps forward. “Bring it, I’ll show you who’s scared of who.”

“I’m sure you will,” Suguru muttered, making a gesture with his hands to summon the said curse. Materializing its body in front of them, the octopus-like creature began to crawl towards Satoru. Suguru leaned back into his seat, waiting for the scene that was about to unfold.

Satoru decided to stick to the rules. If anything, he could just use his technique and blast that thing away. As the curse got closer, he prepared himself, watching as it shot one of its tentacles and… grabbed his hand?

“Remember: no attacking it, just bear it,” he repeated himself, watching as the curse pulled himself towards Satoru.

“As if this thing can bea- ack!” He grunted once the curse tackled him down to the ground. Was that the best it could do, Satoru thought, but a different feeling went up to his mind before he could continue with his snark. “Whahahat?!”

“Is something wrong? Too much for you?” Suguru smiled, hearing the first giggles come out from his cocky classmate.

“T-tihihihickling? Whahat arehehe yohou, a kihi- ahAHa, shihihit!!” Satoru laughed, trying to free his hands from the curse’s grip, battling the urge to laugh as that thing wiggled its free limbs into his sides, ribs, armpits and, honestly, anywhere within its reach.

“It’s called strategic thinking, Satoru,” he spoke in a lecture-like tone, cocking his head to the side, “but if this little curse too much for you, I can dismi-”

“ShuHUhut up!” Satoru laughed, kicking his feet in the air as he felt tickling getting worse. “Ihihit’s nohohot too m-much!”

“So you certainly can take it some more, no?” Suguru teased, even forgetting what he was doing earlier to watch Satoru’s struggling, just waiting for the moment when the white-haired would give up… so he could tease him some more.

A/N: Do this make sense? Probably not. Do I care? No. Did I enjoy writing it? Yeah, pretty much, ehe

#miya&mia's tickletober #tickletober2023 #jujutsu kaisen #jujutsu kaisen tickling #gojo satoru #geto suguru #satosugu #satoru x suguru #lee!satoru #ticklish!satoru #ler!suguru #tickle fic

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ineedtotouchgrassrightnow · 11 months ago

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Moon,Sun,Earth

”The moon needs the sun to shine but the sun couldn’t care less earth is the one who recieves all the sunlight"

Child of Zeus!!!

You've been friends with Percy for years. You two just clicked from a young age, and nothing could alter that. You were each other's complement – you on his right, he on your left. Inseparable, wherever one ventured, the other followed; an unbreakable bond that time couldn't touch.

Every time he fell sick, you cared for him despite his reluctance, cautious not to make you catch the sickness. Whenever he fought with his stepdad and needed someone to confide in, you were there. Through every bout of poor grades, you stood by him.

Since meeting Annabeth, everything went awry. Initially, he praised her intelligence and agility. But it escalated, becoming a recurring issue in where every conversation somehow revolved around her. Hanging out? "Annabeth showed me-" Your birthday? "Annabeth did the funniest thing yesterday!" Even breaking your arm was tied to Annabeth, as he exclaimed, "I think Annabeth is mad at me." The focus shifted entirely.

It has reached a point where he cancels plans with you to cater to her every need. He promised to assist you with training later in the day but had to cancel due to Annabeth's fever. Even after she reassured him she was fine, he stopped talking to you. He ignores your waves when you cross paths, always choosing Annabeth. Every new quest or important news, he rushes to tell Annabeth. In his constant pursuit of her, he overlooks the one who was there for him from the beginning.

You reached a breaking point after he forgot your birthday again. It was worse than enduring his rants about her last year. Does he even know your birthday? If you were to ask him, 'What's my birthday?' would he mistakenly say July 12th, thinking about hers?

"Why are you acting so stuck up?" he snapped at you, frustrated with your behavior.

"Why am I acting stuck up? Why are you behaving like you're better than me?"

"When did I ever start acting better than you?"

"I don't know? Maybe after you completely forgot about me!? Perhaps it was when you replaced me with someone who is just another facade of me!"

"Don't you dare disrespect Annabeth!" he shouted, his voice clear and sharp, sending shivers down your spine. He had never defended you like this before.

"Disrespect? You disrespected me. What are you talking about? After all I did for you?" You couldn't help but laugh at his demeanor. "I wasted my whole life looking after you!" Your hand gripped into a fist.

"I took care of you every time you got in a fight with your stepdad! I nursed you back to health when you were sick! I walked you home! I tried to help you get better grades. I stayed up late talking to you even if I had a big test the next day!" Your nails dug deeper into your skin as your fist clenched turning white.

"I never asked for any of that! You just wasted your own damn time!"

"I wasted my time being a good friend!?"

"I never asked you to be my friend in the first place! You just came along some random day and never left! Following me around like a lost puppy with no life!"

"I'm sorry for caring about you!!! I won't do it again!" The words hung heavy in the air, a bitter acknowledgment of the unraveling friendship.

"Good, I don't want or need you in my life!"

"I want you!" You yelled without realizing. You quickly covered your mouth, but he still heard you. Percy didn't know what to say in response to that, the pissed demeanor fading to a confused look mixed with disgust. The tension thickened as the weight of your confession lingered in the air, both of you grappling with the sudden shift in the dynamic that had defined your friendship.

"Did you honestly think I would be anything more than friends with you?"

"I don't even like you romantically!" You felt your heartbeat race as you lied.

"I want you back! You were my friend, my other side. I miss you!" You took a deep breath as you felt your lungs giving out.

"I miss listening to you rant about your day, about the girls that bullied you, about your favorite class! I miss you! I miss my friend!"

"Were you my friend or was I YOUR friend? “Was I your friend... or were you my friend?" The questions echoed, revealing.

"Look, can we just call this quits? I have training with Annabeth-"

"Annabeth this, Annabeth that! What about Y/N this and Y/N that? Huh!? What does she have that I don't? What did you see in her that you couldn't see in me after years?"

"Do you want the truth?"

"I don't... I don't know. Something about her..." His face turned a slight pink as the heat rushed to his face, thinking about her. The room filled with an awkward silence.

You couldn't help but start laughing loudly too. "Y-You don't kn-know!?" Your sentences were breaking up due to your unstoppable laughter.

"Bullshit! Y-You, I- I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ANYMORE!" You couldn't take it anymore. All the thoughts in your head were mashing together and mixing to the point you didn't know what to think. The room echoed with the chaotic laughter.

"Fine then! Forget me! Go, leave, go hang out with Annabeth!"

"Thank you." Percy rolled his eyes and left, leaving you standing all alone, dumbfounded.

*"I hate him! I hate him, I hate him, I hate him!"* You knew you could never hate him, but you needed to feel like you could hate him.

You watched as he walked up to Annabeth, and his mood increased right away, the same way it used to when you two would hang out. The contrast stung, emphasizing the void left.

Even if you hated her, you saw what he saw in her – she was smart, sassy, charming, strong-minded, and all the good stuff. She had nothing negative about her! He would be crazy not to be head over heels for her. Yet, you couldn't stop feeling guilty. You knew she did nothing wrong; she was always nice to you, but she was just... so UGH!?

A new pit of rage mixed into your stomach, one that grew bigger and bigger every time you saw them hanging out, laughing, or doing anything together! The conflicting emotions churned within, a storm of resentment and self-blame.

Not knowing what to do, you went back to your empty cabin, cabin 1, and grabbed everything that belonged to Percy: his hoodies, his sweatshirt, the stupid letters he would write to you when you were younger that made no sense since he had bad dyslexia, and the stupid stuffed dog he got you at the fair after struggling many times to get it. In your fit of rage, you went to grab a towel he left a long time ago and ended up hitting your side on an extra bunk bed. All the emotions you had bottled up came pouring out of nowhere; this was the final straw. Tears came down your face like crazy.

“I HATE HIM I HATE HIM I HATE HIM I HATE HIM I HATE HIM I HATE HIM I HATE HER I HATE HER I HATE HER I HATE HER I HATE HER I HATE HER I HATE HER I HATE MYSELF I HATE MYSELF I HATE MYSELF I HATE MYSELF I HATE MYSELF”

Ignoring the pain in your throat, you shouted uncontrollably. Once you started yelling, you couldn't stop; your breaths became uneven, and you sounded like a distraught child crying. If you were a child, you would probably run to Percy about this too.

Without thinking, you shoved all his stuff into a box, getting ready to leave. However, the stupid bear just stared up at you from the box, a silent reminder of the shared memories.

“…”

You ended up throwing the bear onto your bed and walked off with the box in your hand, a sobbing mess. Your destination: Cabin 3, Poseidon’s cabin—the one where Percy would be.

As you were about to knock on the door, a laugh you knew all too well reached your ears. "I- I love you so much-" The words were abruptly cut off, replaced by the sound of a kiss. It took everything in you not to drop the box; a wave of sickness threatened to overwhelm you at any minute.

Without thinking, you placed the box in front of the door and banged loudly, surely startling them inside. You ran off to the side of his cabin as the door opened. "What is it, Percy?" "Just some stupid box full of my stuff," he sounded annoyed but took it inside.

Alone in camp, with your only friend turned against you and longing for the girl you wished to be, you felt stranded. The wait until you could leave weighed heavily on you.

Feeling a sense of emptiness, you stared up at the ceiling, boredom consuming you. With nothing to do or say, time passed, and as darkness enveloped the surroundings, you remained motionless. No standing, no thoughts, no appetite – just a lingering inertia as you lay there, lost in a void. Despite skipping meals, you knew the campfire was unavoidable, bound by camp rules. Summoning every ounce of strength, you reluctantly stood up, acknowledging that you would have to face them there.

Each step towards the campfire felt like a heavy burden, the weight increasing with every step. As you arrived, the sight of them together, laughing and sharing a moment, struck you. A shiver ran through her, and he offered his jacket, a familiar gesture that once belonged to you. She hesitated, blushing, but he insisted, and you witnessed the echoes of your past now shared between them.

Uncertain of what to do, you sat on the ground, drawing in the dirt with a stick you found nearby. Seeking any distraction to make time pass faster, you focused on the simple act of creating temporary patterns in the earth beneath you. It was a long 30 minutes, but you finally decided on getting up and leaving. You felt her eyes on you – her disgusting, kind gray eyes.

You went back to your cabin, laid down again, and started sobbing loudly. You hated him so much, but how you loved him! You ended up going into a depressive episode. You refused to eat for days on end, refused to train, refused to do your hair—refused to do anything other than lay down. It's been a mess outside; Zeus is fighting with Poseidon again due to this. Percy hurt you, and now the sky is fighting with the sea.

The sky is thundering like crazy, and the water is going wild as well. Hey, this is your fault; you should know better—water and electricity don't mix well together.

#percy jackson #percy jackon and the olympians #percy pjo #percy series #annabeth chase #percy and annabeth #pjo #angst #pjo fandom #x reader #reader insert

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captain-reno · 23 days ago

Note

Speaking about the role swap Hellsing AU, how do you think Alucard and Anderson got cursed? Is this one of those “they touched an ancient magical relic at the same time” or a “ran into someone practicing dark magic and got in the way” or something else entirely?

Another question (sorry haha) how do you think Anderson’s kids (Heinkel, Yumie, and Maxwell) are reacting? Would he tell them or try and hide it (obv. he can’t hide it from Maxwell but maybe the other two?)

Thanks for your questions! :3

I think I'm one of those people who love, above all else, situations where a seemingly unsolvable problem arises at the very beginning of a plot. This is especially true if that problem stems from something mundane.

Imagine: Alucard, Anderson, and a witch. A triangle where two components practically ignore the third. Each of those two has something more important than their prey, even if they intend to complete the task eventually. It's this minor oversight that lands them in an absurd situation, marked by unnaturalness and unfairness.

P.S. I believe magic has limits, but I also believe that most magicians/witches are capable of terrible things, one way or another, especially if it costs them their lives — lives that would have been lost anyway. For the sake of revenge, the sacrifice is worthwhile.

To put it simply, the witch was cornered. In theory, it should have ended as usual: the prey of these two would be killed. But what could be worse than being killed by someone who won't even look at you? Being killed by someone who not only won't remember you but also can't distinguish you from hundreds, if not thousands, of other people. And you can't prove you're a worthy opponent; you can't prove you're worth anything. Not to them.

But after the curse, they will remember her forever, even if only for the sake of another verbal curse directed at her.

P.S. By the way, this is why I created my original character, the witch Malene. What could be funnier than the fact that, to remove a witch's curse, you need to consult another witch? And to tolerate that witch to have the opportunity to at least fix something.

I think this curse is something Anderson would truly want to hide from everyone, so that no one would see, know, or even imagine that something like this could happen, even theoretically. He would probably want to dismiss it as a dream, so he would never have to remember the feelings he endured (I think at the first sign of thirst, he would want to rip out his own throat). But at the same time, I don't think he could lie to his children; there's no reason for it except his unwillingness.

I think the first reaction of all three would be shock. The kind where your head goes blank. It would be a mixture of denial, panic, disbelief. But then, of course, Heikel and Yumi would have no choice but to gather their scattered thoughts and remove out everything except confidence and mild excitement. Because, apparently, this is another test from God. And Anderson is not the kind of person who could not go through this.

Of course, no one besides the three of them would know. If someone of higher status than Maxwell found out, it would be a huge problem for both him and Anderson because vampires shouldn't defile this world with their existence. If any of the Iscariots except Yumi and Heinkel found out, it would be an indelible shame. And if, for example, any of the ordinary people (for example, the orphanage employees — there's a high probability they're unaware of the intricacies of the Iscariots, if they even know of their existence) or the orphanage children found out, it would be a disaster!

But honestly, it's funny to imagine the children wondering what happened to their principal and why he's suddenly so strange. There's no logical explanation unless you know about vampires.

Art by @der-fleischwolf

Art by me heh

I imagine these conversations going something like this:

– 6-years-old child: Why is he taking so long to come back?

– 13-years-old child: I don’t know. He always worked hard, but he also always knew when he was coming back. I think the caregivers will tell us later.

– 15-years-old child: Why are his eyes red?

– 14-years-old child: Maybe he’s sick? And he’s leaving to get treatment.

– 8-years-old child: Or maybe it’s his evil twin?

– 7-years-old child: I heard that albinos have red eyes.

– 10-years-old child: He doesn’t have a scar. Maybe it’s his brother?

– 12-years-old child: Of course not! How can his brother know us all by name?

– 16-years-old child: He’s not dressed like a priest. He doesn’t have a cross. Is he leaving the church?

– 17-years-old child: Or he’s been temporarily defrocked. That’s probably what happened. I can't imagine what could have made him leave us. Leave Catholicism. But what happened? What could he have done to be punished?

Hehe, omg, I have never written such long texts in English before, I hope there will be no translation errors.

#exchange andercard #hellsing #hellsing au #alexander anderson #heinkel wolf #yumiko takagi #hellsing oc

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snakxreader · 1 year ago

Note

How about Floofty enduring shenanigans of the journalist whose oddly open to dangerous experiments?

A/N: First request, and ofc it’s a Floofty one/j

Honestly, OP? I don’t think I wrote Floofty well here at all, but I tried. This was a really interesting ting prompt!

Floofty and Journalist (Platonic)

There were limits to everything, as frustrating as it was.

It was one of the unfortunate realities of the world, and one Floofty had grown entirely used to. Limits in their field. Limits in familial love, despite how close you used to be, and of course ethical limits. The media was honestly overrreacting, they had given multiple consent forms, had debriefed the entire thing before and after, yet they still got treated like a monster by people who thought with their hearts rather than their huts. Media sways opinions and as such, swayed the public into not trusting them. This reputation even followed them to Snaktooth. The horrific Floofty Fizzlebean. They’d find the fear almost funny if it wasn't so humiliating.

So they started to experiment on themselves. Empiricism was the only way they saw fit and it worked them well, no matter the pain. They were their own best test subject, and that was almost to be proud of.

Key word being were.

And then that moronic journalist arrived and somehow they were met with someone more headstrong than them.

No, headstrong was not the word here. This had to be some sort of suicidal ideation because nobody in their right mind would do some of the things Floofty attempted.

Exhibit A; offhandedly mentioning one of their old experiences and then asking if it could be replicated.

Floofty blinked. “Why would you possibly want to know that.”

They shrugged. “Oh, I dunno…sounds fun!” The reporter laughed a little while responding.

“…..You cannot be serious.”

“I dunno, if you need a test subject, I’m willing.” The journalist replied, grinning like a maniac. Floofty’s eye twitched at their apparent humor at the situation.

“This is not a joke. My experiments are incredibly dangerous, and as such, I do them only to myself.”

“Can’t be that bad.”

“Throwing yourself against Bungers to see how far they can throw you?”

“Oh a few feet.” The journalist calmly replied. “They can do some serious damage.”

Floofty sputtered. “A-alright, fine! Remove Bugsnax from the equation. If you were my test subject, I’d have you…stay in exposed contact with lava to detail the Bugsnax near the volcano.”

“Fun! I’m always a bit cold most places I go.”

“Th-Then I’ll do the same thing with the mountain!”

“Always wanted to go camping in the winter!”

“I’ll-I’ll force you to eat Bugsnax and watch how your allergy affects you!”

“Ooooh, so a crytpid?” Their eyes gleamed as excitement laced their voice. “Do you think I’d, like, turn into a creature of unimaginable horrors?”

For a faint minute, they wondered if this was what Snorpington had dealt with, having to convince them not to do the things they did on a daily basis, which they always took in a stride of dark humor.

“Are you afraid of anything…?” They asked feebly.

The journalist winked, finger gun pointed at Floofty. “Paying taxes.”

“W-wha….?��

“But seriously though, those do sound really fun!” They contained, mindlessly rolling their hand about. “Even with the whole ‘danger’ thing, have you considered-hey!”

The journalist tilted their head, eyebrows burrowed. “Floofty, come back!”

Floofty paid the protesting journalist no mind as they walked towards Cromdo’s stand. Even if they’d get most likely scammed, that entire exchange counted for an extreme need of alcoholic beverages.

#bugsnax #floofty fizzlebean #the journalist bugsnax #bugsnax journalist #fic request #(?)#i can’t tell if this counts as x-reader #so I kept the Journalist extremely vague #this sucks ASS. but shrugs.#I hope someone enjoys it ^^’

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freyasilverbough · 5 months ago

Text

The Cave Bear and the White Wolf - Warrior of the Moon

A merging of previously posted parts, slightly rewritten. My OC acting insane based on a run I did where I aggroed Moonrise and didn’t have my party with me (I’ve been Baldur’s bored lately after 1500+ hours combined between console and pc lmao I wanted to see if I could 💀).

Read on AO3 here

Cw for blood, death, canon typical violence, slightly explicit towards the end. Some fluff and hurt/comfort. Vague mention of a suicide (?) in reference to Kar’niss being convinced to drop the lantern and walk into the curse.

Word count: 4,061

“Fucking hells.”

Halsin’s eyes snapped open at Freya’s voice, still hoarse from all she’d endured the day before. He had discovered what was wrong with Thaniel while Freya slept and though he wanted so badly to put his plan into action, he knew that Freya would have his balls if he went without her.

She was, of course, already trying to sit up on her own. Halsin moved from his chair to perch on the edge of her bed and used one hand to push her back down gently.

“How do you feel?” He asked her.

“Oh, all-powerful archdruid, I’m in such pain. Put me from my misery, I beg you,” she retorted with a dramatic eye roll. Her sense of humor had returned, at least. He couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped his chest as he lightly flicked her nose and she snapped her teeth at him. “Honestly, Halsin, I’m fine. I’ll die of boredom if you don’t let me up, and then everyone’s efforts will be wasted.”

Damn stubborn woman, he thought as he slid his arm under her shoulders and helped her sit up. Freya winced slightly as her sore muscles adjusted to the movement, and when she was sitting upright she started testing her injured shoulder.

She did not behave like a woman who had just been at death’s door the previous day, that much was certain.

Freya looked down at the leg that had been sliced open to find it clad in clean black cotton pants. She shot Halsin a glare, apparently thinking he got her naked while she was unconscious or something. Not that he didn’t want to get her naked.

“Not me,” he said quickly. “Shadowheart brought clothes for you last night since your others were shredded.” She ran a hand through her hair, finding it unbraided and clean. “That was me, I’m afraid. I figured if you wanted red hair, you’d dye it on purpose, and the blood was starting to stain.”

Freya huffed a small laugh. “Perhaps it would be easier if I did dye it. Silver is so inconvenient.”

They sat there next to each other in silence for several moments.

“I know you’re not one for sentimentality, but I need you to hear this. I thought you were going to die yesterday. You are, perhaps, the strongest person I’ve ever met, and without a doubt the fiercest warrior. No one here doubts your skills or your strength,” Halsin started.

“My brother always said that anything before the word ‘but’ is bullshit,” Freya answered. It was the first time Halsin had heard her say a word about her family, and he didn’t even think she realized she said it.

“But,” he continued. “Even you cannot face everything alone. I am here to be your ear as you bear your burdens and the arms that protect you when you can shoulder them no more. If you aren’t ready to share your mind with me, at least let me mend your body when it comes back to me bleeding and bruised.”

Freya let his words sink in for a long moment, her blue eyes lining with silver as she took a deep breath. “Az would’ve loved you,” she whispered. “He would’ve smacked me upside the head and called me a stubborn brat.” She swiped at her eyes and let out a sad laugh. “Where I’m from, every favor has a price. There’s only ever been one person I could really trust to watch my flank, and he’s been gone a long time. I couldn’t protect my brother, but I can protect all of you.” She stood, gingerly testing her weight on her bad leg, and faced Halsin. Without any of her armor on, and missing her sword and shield, she was just a woman with the weight of the world on her slender shoulders.

She was choosing to be vulnerable with him, to share some pieces of herself that she had kept locked away for Silvanus knew how long. He took both of her hands in his and let blue light flow from his palms to hers to soothe her lingering aches.

“My friend, you rescued a bear from a cage and certain death without knowing if it would kill you. You saved my grove and showed Kagha the errors of her ways. You held the line and almost lost your life to help me find my oldest friend. If you believe that my aid comes with a debt, consider it paid a hundred times over.”

Freya brushed her thumb over Halsin’s knuckles and gave him a quick nod. For her to share with him that small bit about her past, he knew, took greater courage than anything else she’d faced since he joined her camp. That knowledge made his heart nearly burst.

“Let’s get Thaniel back to camp,” she said, breaking the tension. “He’ll be safest with us.” She let go of Halsin’s hands and looked around the room. “Where in the sweet hells is my armor?”

Halsin laughed. “I gave it to Dammon for repairs. Wait here, I’ll go see if he’s finished.” Freya backed up a step so he could stand, dwarfing the paladin as he did.

“You know, you’re quite large for an elf,” she blurted.

“I am? You don’t say!” Playful sarcasm laced his tone as he laughed once more. “Trust me, it’s been said. You’ve shown more restraint than most in avoiding the subject until now.” Indeed, with them standing so close to each other, he noticed how tall he was in comparison to her. The top of her head barely reached his chest. He still had no doubt she could obliterate him in a fight if she wished.

She shoved at his shoulder. “Whatever, old man. Go make sure Dammon hasn’t ruined my armor.”

As Halsin left the room and closed the door behind him, Jaheira caught his eye and raised her wine glass in his direction. Her eyes twinkled in amusement as she gave him a knowing look.

It seemed the woman did know everything that happened in her inn, after all.

-------

“Hey, Dammon,” Halsin called as he approached the blacksmith.

“Hey, how is she?” Dammon asked as he turned to the larger man, clasping Halsin’s forearm in greeting.

“She’s awake. Wants her armor back.” Dammon chuckled and nodded to where her suit lay on his workbench, polished and free of all the dents that adorned it after the battle the day before. “You do work fast, impressive.”

“I added some extra reinforcements to the plate. It’s a good set, but there are too many gaps in it for someone who takes as many hits as Freya does.”

“Actually, I wondered if you might be able to make something,” Halsin said as he pulled the sketchbook he kept from his pocket and handed it to the smith.

Dammon looked the sketches over for a long moment, his brows creasing as he mapped his new project in his head. “Yeah, I think I can manage it. Give me a moment to measure the other set, I have plenty of steel and scraps of scalemail thanks to Talli. Should take me about a week or so.”

Halsin thanked the tiefling as he gathered Freya’s armor and turned back to the inn. “Oh, Dammon?” He called over his shoulder. “Keep it quiet, would you?”

--------

They were heading for Moonrise that day. Freya was a ball of nerves, wound so tight that he was sure any minor inconvenience would cause her to snap. She was worried that Ketheric might recognize her, and therefore put her newfound friends at risk, so she insisted that everyone wait outside while she went in and “tested the waters.”

Halsin didn’t like it one bit. There were too many things that could go wrong in there, and while he didn’t doubt Freya’s abilities, he also wouldn’t underestimate Ketheric Thorm.

“Take Astarion inside with you at the very least,” he tried to reason with her. She just glared in response. “He knows how to stay hidden and he can back you up if something goes wrong.”

“Remember how you insisted that you were the only one who could enter the Shadowfell? This is like that,” she snapped. “If Ketheric recognizes me, it’s all over. The rest of you have an advantage, he’s got no clue who you are and if I fall, you can still infiltrate the tower. If you’re with me, and things go sideways, he’ll behead you for association before you even know what’s happening. I won’t put anyone here at risk because I apparently failed to kill him a hundred years ago.”

She’d removed her headband and earrings that marked her as a follower of Selûne. Instead of her plated armor, she sported black leather and wore a hood to cover her silver hair. She had striped her face with black kohl to hide the scar over the bridge of her nose. She looked more like an assassin than a paladin.

Halsin ran a hand through his hair in exasperation. The archdruid in him wanted to command her to stay behind, to let the others scout the tower if she was so worried about being recognized. He knew that such a command would just piss her off, that she would never ask another to do something she herself wasn’t willing to do.

The plan was that he would wait just outside the moonshield with Astarion, Gale, and Shadowheart. With the pixie’s blessing, they’d be protected from the curse while the cultists were forced to stay in the light. If Ketheric recognized Freya and she somehow made it out of the tower, Astarion would pick off the cultists with his bow and Gale would open a portal to Last Light, while Shadowheart and Halsin would make sure they all survived.

If Freya made it out. He’d never admit to her that the thought she may not make it made his bones run cold and his heart sink to his gut. He wanted to go with her, to protect her, to stand between the oathbreaker and the faithful and give her a chance to flee.

Freya stepped closer to him and looked into his eyes, a cold determination hardening the blue. “If I fall, be assured that I plan on taking every damned cultist I can down with me.”

“You once told me your brother always said that anything before the word ‘but’ is bullshit,” Halsin echoed her words from the week before.

“But,” a smirk lifted her perfect lips. “I have no intention of dying today. By my oath, I will do everything in my power to see justice come to Ketheric Thorm.”

When she invoked her oath, Halsin knew that there was no more arguing to be done. She stood firm in her choice. All he could do was pray to Silvanus and every other god that would listen that she would return to him.

“Let’s get this over with, then,” he said, clapping her shoulder as he strode to meet the others before departure.

--------

Halsin paced just outside the moonshield, watching the huge oak doors of the tower as if he could see through them and glimpse what was happening.

“Would you settle down? You’re making us dizzy,” Astarion whined from the stump he perched on, carving new arrows with his knife.

Halsin ignored him and carried on as he was.

“Don’t be an ass, Astarion. It’s giving you wrinkles,” Shadowheart quipped.

“Honestly, I doubt there’s anything to be that worried about. We watched our favorite paladin sweet-talk a drider into killing himself.”

Halsin stopped his pacing when bells sounded from the tower and he heard the faint shouts of the guards. His breath caught in his throat as he stopped just in front of the moonshield.

He strained his ears, hearing the faint clashing of swords from inside the tower.

Freya.

If there was fighting, she was alive. Halsin breathed a sigh of relief before that relief quickly turned to panic. Who was she fighting? What was she doing? Freya was formidable, to be sure, but one soldier against an entire stronghold? She’d either had no choice, or she was completely mad.

The oak doors at the tower’s entrance blew open with an explosion of silver moonfire, and out poured a host of gnomes, tieflings, and…

Was that Minthara?

Freya followed close behind, covered once again in blood and glowing with the rush of battle. Her hood had fallen and her braids swung wildly behind her. She pulled something from her pocket and launched it toward Astarion as the gnomes and tieflings ran across the bridge.

“Tell the pixie to protect the prisoners from the curse! HURRY!” She screamed as he caught it. Halsin vaguely registered Astarion following her order, but his focus was on her. Minthara stood with her as the prisoners fled from the battle. The drow had no weapon, but she had a paladin’s magic and was using it to compel foes to halt, flee, drop their weapons as Freya struck them down.

Gale muttered incantations under his breath as purple magic began to swirl around him. A portal appeared, and Shadowheart ushered the prisoners through to safety. Astarion drew his bow and fired as Freya and Minthara sprinted across the bridge. One of the guards dodged Astarion’s arrow at the last second and reached out to grab Freya by the braids, and Halsin decided he’d had enough.

He let the earth guide him as he shifted, fur and claws erupting where there were once skin and hands. He leaped over the two women and tore out the guard’s throat, letting loose a roar of fury. When the drow crossed the portal, Freya slid to a stop and approached to stand at Halsin’s side.

“Well. I may have started a bit of a fight,” she said as more guards poured through the doors. “We should probably go.” Halsin shifted back to his elven form and grabbed Freya’s hand, the two of them sprinting through Gale’s portal.

Halsin stumbled as his feet touched the ground outside Last Light, and Freya landed on her hands and knees. Reunions and celebrations were happening all around them, but he couldn’t bring himself to gaze at anything but Freya. She sat back on her heels, tilted her face to the sky, and laughed. Cackled like a godsdamned madwoman, covered in her enemies’ blood and viscera. Perhaps she’d taken a pommel to the head.

“Fucking hells, that felt good,” she said between her laughs, trying and failing to catch her breath. Halsin leveled a glare in her direction. “Oh come on now, they were taking Minthara to the cells to erase her mind. I was on a time crunch,” she said to him.

“Yeah, that’s another thing we’re going to talk about. Minthara, Freya? I thought she was dead!” Halsin tried to keep his voice level, but his anger raised the volume.

“I thought she was too, turns out she’s tougher than I thought.” Freya got to her feet and crossed her arms in defiance as if she hadn’t just saved the drow who’d threatened his grove not two months before.

“She’s an oathbreaker, Freya. She’ll slit your throat in your sleep now that you’ve set her free. What in all the Nine Hells were you thinking?!”

“They’re arguing about me, aren’t they?” He heard the drow ask someone behind him. It took every ounce of will he possessed to keep from turning his wrath on her.

“Don’t worry, Freya always wins him over. She has a thing for taking in strays,” Astarion responded.

“She’s an oathbreaker, yes, but you’ll make one of me if you ask me to send her back to the shadows. She was controlled by the tadpole when she planned to take the grove, a fate I would’ve faced myself were it not for blind, stupid luck. Who knows what they would’ve made me do, had the prism not intervened? Minthara is a valuable asset whose goals align with our own, for now. If she turns on us, I’ll cut her down myself.” Freya’s tone quickly turned from exuberant to commanding as she spoke, returning Halsin’s glare and spreading her stance.

“You would die in the attempt, but it’s a noble thought,” Minthara retorted. Halsin whipped around to face the drow and Freya circled him so she stood between them, gripping her sword as she did.

“I don’t like her either, Halsin, but I must hold to the tenets of my oath and I must accept every sword I am offered in this fight.” Freya’s gaze softened just a fraction and Halsin knew she was right. Fuck, but she could talk him into biting off his own hand if she wanted.

He looked over Freya’s shoulder to the drow. “The first sign of trouble, and you’re gone,” he said to her.

“Oh, I intend to cause plenty, but only for our enemies.”

--------

Back at camp, Halsin’s whittling turned into a pile of slivers in his frustration. He was still so angry with Freya, she was only meant to “test the waters,” as she had said. Instead, the woman took it upon herself to tackle an entire stronghold on her own.

He knew she would do it all over again to save those prisoners, and he couldn’t exactly fault her for it. He didn’t know the exact words of her oath, but he knew that most paladins were bound to defend the innocent. The tenets of her oath would always come above her own safety, and something about that fact aggravated him to no end. Did she just not value her own life the way she valued others?

She materialized before him as if she could read his thoughts. She leaned on a tree and bit down on an apple, without a care in the world. She wore a sleeveless cotton top that accentuated every curve and muscle of her lithe torso and dipped low into her cleavage. Her moonlight hair was unbound and she’d washed the black from her face.

She looked like a godsdamned angel, and that just made Halsin angrier.

“You’re upset,” she stated, taking another bite of her apple.

Halsin took a deep breath, willing his centuries of training in patience to kick in and chase the rage from his bones. “Yes,” he responded.

“Look, I made a call in the moment. I’ve spoken with Minthara, and I believe she’ll stand with us against the Absolute. They scarred her mind, and she wants vengeance. If you talked with her yourself, you’d believe her, too.”

“I don’t give a rat’s ass about Minthara.”

“Then why the fuck are you sulking in the farthest corner of camp?” Halsin stood, stalking toward Freya like she was his prey. She pushed off of her tree and straightened, crossing her arms and widening her stance. The movement made her biceps ripple and her breasts pushed together slightly. Halsin pretended that his cock didn’t twitch at the sight.

He didn’t stop until he was inches away from her. “I’m sulking because you asked - no, demanded - that everyone else stay behind while you went on a fucking suicide mission, Freya. You put yourself at risk again and I cannot figure out how someone with such high regard for others can care for her own life so little. It was stupid, and you know it. I thought we were past this recklessness, that you would finally ask me for help, and then you go and pull this nonsense without a thought for how your friends would feel having to burn your body.”

“Don’t you dare act as if you were there. You didn’t see what they were doing in that prison, Halsin.”

“I didn’t see because you forced me to stay behind!” he yelled. “I wasn’t there because you always insist on standing alone!”

“What would you have me fucking do?! I am somehow responsible for each of the lives in this camp, for each of the souls in Last Light. I’ve been fighting for well over two hundred years, I trust in my own strength even if-“

Halsin couldn’t help it. He took her face in both hands and crashed his lips to hers. She stiffened in his grip for a moment, then melted into his kiss, molding herself to his body. She was a perfect fit. She put both of her small, calloused hands on his chest as one of his own traveled to her waist. He gripped her side as he groaned slightly into her full lips, feeling the ridges of her scars under her shirt. She opened her mouth for him, and their tongues danced in a battle for dominance.

It was not a sweet kiss, nor a gentle one. He wound the hand that had been cupping her cheek into her long hair, wrapping it around his fist. He moved her back against the tree and the hand on her side inched up to her breast as she moaned into his mouth. It was the sweetest godsdamned sound Halsin had ever heard.

All reason and restraint had left his body in that moment. As he kissed Freya against that tree, there was no Shadow Curse, no invulnerable general, no tadpole swimming in her skull. There was only her.

That fierce, kind, compassionate, reckless woman whose loyalty had no match, whose strength could challenge gods and rattle the stars. He’d taken many lovers, always held that his heart roamed as nature willed it, but he knew without a doubt as he held her that she was it for him. Whether she would have him or not, there would never be another.

Reluctantly, he broke their kiss and pressed his forehead to hers, staring into her bright blue eyes. Both of them were breathless, and he could smell her arousal as his cock stretched the leather of his pants.

“I wish you could see yourself as I do,” he whispered, before gripping her thighs and hoisting her up to his height. She wrapped her legs around his hips and bared her neck for him in a rare show of vulnerability as his lips wrapped around her soft flesh. His teeth moved their way up to her delicate pointed ear and she ground herself into him with a loud sigh of pleasure.

He was ready to burst in his pants like an adolescent when a call from Astarion interrupted them. “Freya! Quit fucking the bear, there’s a devil in our camp again, and it’s not Minthara.”

She broke away from him, panting and thoroughly flushed. “I’m going to fucking kill him,” she murmured. Halsin chuckled and nipped at her throat before releasing his hold on her. He smoothed her hair with his hand and pressed a kiss to her forehead. She smelled like rosemary and thunderstorms, he realized, as he took a deep inhale.

“Next time I risk my own hide in an epic act of heroism, I expect to be thoroughly fucked, druid,” she said in a sing-song voice as she turned to hurry back to where an alleged devil waited to meet with her.

He chuckled to himself as he adjusted his breeches, and jogged to catch up with her. He was in such deep shit.

--------

The devil in question was Wyll’s patron, Mizora. She’d appeared to inform Wyll that he needed to rescue one of Zariel’s assets from Moonrise. Freya agreed on Wyll’s behalf, stating that they’d do it only if Mizora freed her warlock from his pact.

The damn woman would argue with a devil. She sat with Minthara on a log, handing her the weapons they’d gathered from their travels for inspection. The flaming sword she’d picked up on the nautiloid was too big, the mace from under the creche too small, and the shortsword from the goblin camp downright insulting.

Freya smirked as she passed the drow a Menzoberranzan blade she’d looted from a drider. Minthara stood, gripping the hilt with finesse and testing its balance. “Finally, good drow steel. This will do,” she said. Freya retrieved her own sword and started sharpening it with her whetstone. Halsin watched as the two women fell into an easy camaraderie, honing their weapons and talking of battles won, foes vanquished.

May all the gods above have mercy on Ketheric Thorm, for the elf and the drow would not.

#bg3 #bg3 tav #bg3 halsin #halsin x tav #halsin silverbough #halsin x freya #paladin tav #halsin x oc #halsin fanfic #halsin bg3

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m1ckeyb3rry · 1 year ago

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Endure VII: Gear

Series Synopsis: You and Eren Jaeger have been best friends since the age of two, but the two of you are destined for an inevitable tragedy. The world you have been born into is cruel; it is one where friends are traitors and enemies are allies, one where you find yourself doubting everything you've ever known. In this life, mistakes are fatal, and you must be careful, lest you make one too many.

Chapter Synopsis: You get to use the ODM gear for the first time.

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Eren Jaeger x Female Reader, Armin Arlert x Female Reader

Chapter Word Count: 6.1k

Content Warnings: swearing, canon-typical violence, sexual abuse (non-explicit), major character death, angst, original characters included

You were used to being bad at things. You were used to being weaker than Mikasa and dumber than Armin and more scared than Eren. Therefore, you did not have high hopes when you were hoisted into the ODM harness for the aptitude test. The only advantage you had was the tips that Petra and Levi had given you.

Then again, that was quite the advantage indeed. How many of these cadets could say that they had been given advice from humanity’s strongest soldier? And Petra was no slouch herself. She had one of the highest titan kill counts, as well as an incredible amount of assists. Her prowess with the ODM was perhaps not legendary, but it was not to be discounted, either.

You tried to remember all of this as your examiner raised you into the air. The reassuring words of the two experienced Scouts rang in your head, and you did your best to follow them.

Keep your core tight and your muscles limber, engaged but not resistant. If you overthink it, you’ll fall, so it’s better to just not think at all. Channel your inner T. This was Petra.

The key to the ODM gear is to not fight it. Most people try to outmuscle the gear, and for people who are big in size, that’s fine — to a point. But it’ll never work for you and I. The gear will automatically self-balance, so there’s no need to force anything. Just let it do its job and focus your energy and strength on maneuvering your body. Try not to stay still, either. The gear is meant for movement, and counterintuitive though it may seem, the more you move and the faster you go, the better your balance will be. Levi had written an entire paragraph about how to effectively utilize the ODM gear in one of his letters, and his detailed advice combined with Petra’s allowed for you to stay upright in the air.

After a moment, you began to feel what Levi was talking about as the gear started wobbling a little. You gave your examiner a worried look, but she only raised her eyebrows at you, perhaps wondering what you would do. Taking this as a challenge, you relaxed your body further and let yourself swing back and forth, making sure the examiner could tell it was on purpose.

The examiner nodded in approval before lowering you and helping you out of the gear. She handed you a bottle of water, which you accepted gratefully.

“You were excellent with that. Your instincts are uncanny,” she said. You blushed and wiped your mouth with the back of your hand.

“I wish that was the truth, but honestly, I have a lot of prior knowledge. I live with Petra Ral — she’s a Scout, you know, and part of the Special Ops Squad — and Captain Levi is my pen pal. They both gave me a ton of advice, so I had a bit of an unfair advantage, you see,” you said. The examiner looked surprised before nodding.

“Ah, I see. Regardless of how you got your knowledge, the fact remains that you have it, and you definitely pass. You say you’re...pen pals...with Captain Levi? Then I’ll have to assume that he saw something in you, which only leads me to believe that you would’ve been fine either way. Congratulations, Cadet L/N,” she said.

“Thank you, ma’am,” you said, saluting at her before looking around, “Um, is there something else I’m supposed to do for the rest of the day?”

“I believe all of today is just devoted to aptitude testing, so no. Feel free to walk around and cheer your friends on or take a break. It’s up to you,” she said.

“It’s pretty nice out today. I’ll go see how everyone else is doing! Thanks again!” you said, waving at the woman before jogging off.

Tullia, who had gotten the same advice as you had, did similarly well to you. Mikasa and Jean were naturals with it. Mikasa looked almost bored, her newly-cut hair swaying softly in the breeze. She had decided to chop it off because, according to Eren, it would get in the way with the ODM gear. You were saddened that you wouldn’t be able to braid it anymore, but she looked good. You doubted you could pull it off as well as she did. Eren had tried to get you to cut your hair, too, but you told him in no uncertain words to screw off and worry about his own hair. You liked your hair long, and you weren’t going to just cut it because he said you should.

Armin was clearly struggling with staying upright, though this was no surprise. He was unbelievably smart, but physical pursuits had always been beyond him. Still, he endured and he prevailed, and when he was lowered, his face red and his breath coming in huffing pants, he wore a wide smile on his face.

“You did it, Min-Min! Nice job!” you said, patting him on the shoulder. He blew his hair out of his face and nodded at you, sighing in relief.

“I can’t believe it. I thought it was the fields for me, but here I am,” he said.

“Here you are,” you agreed.

“I think I’m going to sit down though. Sina, that took a lot out of me,” he said, sitting criss-cross on the ground and massaging his temples.

“Do you want me to stay here?” you said, giving him a worried glance. He shook his head.

“No, it’s fine! I’m alright. We’ll have plenty of time later to talk. Speaking of, we should hang out during one of our off days. Maybe have a tea party or something, for old times’ sake,” he said, suddenly shy.

“Sure!” you said brightly. You had missed your tea parties with Armin. Never had you thought you’d get to have one again, and you were not going to let the opportunity go to waste. You refused to take your friends for granted anymore.

“Y/N, watch this!” Connie shouted. He was currently being tested, though his examiner was sitting on the ground with his face buried in his hands.

“What, Connie?” you said.

“DO A BARREL ROLL!” Sasha shouted from where she was spinning in her ODM gear. Connie lit up at this suggestion, and your eyes widened as he prepared himself to execute the feat.

“Connie, no!” you said.

“Connie, yes!” he said, flipping backwards. To your surprise, it was nearly flawless, and he beamed at you when he had straightened, shooting you a thumbs up.

“You passed ten minutes ago! Let me lower you!” his examiner groaned.

“Wait, I did?” Connie said, freezing as he mulled this over. The examiner took advantage of the short boy’s indecision to hastily return him to the ground and undo the buckles of his ODM gear.

“Yes! By the walls, yes!” he said.

“Sick!” Connie said, marching over to stand with you before placing his hands on his hips, “Wait a moment. So I’m not a failure and a disgrace? I knew it!”

“I wouldn’t go that far,” the examiner muttered before motioning Bertholdt forward.

“Who said you were a failure and a disgrace?” you wondered. Connie winked at you.

“The voices,” he said, making wiggling motions with his fingers, presumably to represent these mysterious voices.

“Oh?” you said.

“Mhm. I’m going to go watch Sasha. You coming?” he said.

“Looking at Sasha makes me dizzy, if I’m being honest with you. I’ll just hang around here,” you said.

“Have fun, Mrs. Springer!” he said cheerfully before running off, not giving you the chance to refute his claims. You shook your head in amusement, turning and then promptly running straight into something.

No, someone. Looking up, you were met with the face of Reiner Braun. He seemed surprised, and you immediately stumbled backwards.

“Reiner! I am so so so sorry!” you said, clasping your hands in front of you as you frantically apologized for literally slamming your face into his chest. He began to laugh.

“It’s fine,” he said, waving it off dismissively.

“But I feel bad! Ugh, this is so embarrassing,” you said, facepalming at your own idiocy. Reiner was the oldest cadet, so to have done something like this to him was even worse than if you had done it to, say, Marco.

“If you want to make it up to me, you could always let me do the same to you,” he suggested. You looked down at your body and then back up at him.

“Um, no. I don’t feel that bad. Sorry,” you said. He grinned sheepishly.

“It was worth a shot,” he said.

“It really wasn’t,” you informed him. He shrugged, unaffected by the now-weird atmosphere. You decided if he wasn’t going to make a big deal about it, you weren’t either, so you resolved to forget about the entire encounter and his strange attempt at lightening the mood.

“Well, moving on, how was your aptitude test?” you said.

“Great! I passed, and that’s about all anyone can ask for. My examiner seemed pretty happy with me, so that was doubly good,” he said.

“Oh, awesome! And yeah, same, though unlike you, it wasn’t out of some sort of natural talent or skill. I already knew the theory of it all, so putting it into practice wasn’t that difficult,” you said. He patted you on the shoulder.

“S’okay, Y/N. Not everyone has to be born with special abilities, or else they wouldn’t be special, right?” he said. All of your pride in your earlier accomplishments vanished at his words. You had thought Reiner would be impressed anyways, or at least congratulate you, but with a simple sentence, he had crushed any self-confidence you had gained. You found yourself desperately wanting to prove yourself to him as someone special. Someone worthy of his praise.

“Right,” you muttered.

“Don’t worry about it so much! I’ll take care of you,” he said, puffing out his chest in an attempt to seem more masculine and strong. You didn’t have the cruelty to tell him that Mikasa and Eren had already beaten him to claiming that job.

“Thanks, Reiner, but I think I’m okay,” you said. He locked eyes with you, and something about his fierce amber gaze felt as though you had seen it before. He trapped you in place; but it was not the good kind of trapped, the way you felt when Eren looked at you. You felt like a deer being stalked by a hunter, but you shook it off. You were no deer. You didn’t know what you were, but you knew that what it wasn’t was some sort of helpless prey.

“Now you’re being silly,” he said, and the words were almost tangible, slithering down your spine like a serpent. You were cold, so very cold. You were standing directly in the sun, but it wasn’t enough. Something about the way Reiner spoke made you believe wholeheartedly that he had seen you at your weakest, during the fall of Shiganshina, being carried to safety by Petra, even if it was silly. You had only just met him yesterday, after all.

“I’m going to go find Eren,” you said. Cold, cold, only a fire could ward away this sort of chill. Reiner watched you go with eyes that tracked your every movement. He was feral and untamed, an unchained wolf running with mere lap dogs, but you were too young to see it and too naive to care.

Eren looked determined as he was strapped into the ODM gear. Catching his eye, you offered him a small smile of encouragement. This was it, his time to prove that he could be a Scout. You had no doubts about his abilities. Even you had been able to, and you weren’t anywhere near his level.

His examiner raised him up, and his eyes shone with happiness as he was doing it, he was doing it, he was really flying, just like the hero you had believed him to be when you both were children.

And then he came crashing to the ground like a bird that had broken its wings. Dust plumes raised up around him, causing you to cough as you stared at him in abject shock. Eren...had fallen. How was this possible?

A selfish part of you felt vindicated. He had failed. Eren had failed, and you hadn’t. You were better than him. You were better than him. You wanted to scream it to the world. You wanted to scream it at Reiner. You wanted Reiner to know. More than anything, you wanted Reiner to know.

Then you realized what this meant. If Eren couldn’t use the gear, he couldn’t be a Scout. If he couldn’t be a Scout, he couldn’t see the outside world. He would be stuck in the very walls he had so despised for his entire life, powerless to fight back against the monsters that had stolen your families.

“Let me try again!” Eren shouted as the examiners clicked their tongues in disappointment. They exchanged glances before hesitantly raising him again. You held your breath. He would get it this time, you knew it. He would be a Scout, and you would be better than him, and things would be alright again, and nobody would know about your horrible thoughts.

But he didn’t get it. He fell and he fell, over and over again. The ground cut at his face, and rivers of blood rushed from his head, mixing with the dry dirt, damning the earth beneath him and creating crimson mud that steamed slightly in the heat.

“I think that’s enough. He needs to get his wounds looked at before they become infected,” you interjected as he was raised again. The sun had passed its peak in the sky, and most of the other cadets had long since gone inside for lunch and to escape the afternoon’s high temperature. Only you and Eren remained, mosquitos beginning to nip at your neck. You slapped them away in irritation before giving the examiners a beseeching look.

“Girly’s right. Sorry, kiddo, doesn’t seem like you have what it takes. You can have a final try tomorrow when your head isn’t covered in blood and bruises, but you might just want to cut your losses and move on. Working in the fields isn’t that bad of an existence, you know,” the examiner said, lowering the boy to the ground, where he immediately collapsed in defeat. The examiners gave him sympathetic looks before leaving him to sob on the ground. You tentatively crept over to sit beside him.

“Come on, Eren. Let’s get you bandaged,” you said, pulling him to his feet and wincing at the injuries that littered his face. He hung his head and let you lead him to the infirmary, where you dampened a rag and wiped him off.

“You don’t look that bad now that you’re clean!” you said, trying to be optimistic, though by the dull glare he gave you, he was not convinced.

“Not that bad? You heard the examiner, I don’t have what it takes! How have I gotten this far and then been bested by the ODM gear? You were good at it, right? Tell me your secrets!” he said. You sighed and began to wrap a bandage around his forehead.

“I just got advice from Levi and Petra, that’s all. I’m not anything special,” you said. He grabbed your hands, forcing you to stop bandaging him.

“Levi like Captain Levi of the Scouts?” he said.

“Yeah, him. We’re pen pals,” you said.

“You very conveniently forgot to mention that yesterday,” Eren said through gritted teeth.

“Oops, sorry. Um, Levi and I are pen pals?” you said. He shook his head, letting you finish your task.

“Well, don’t be shy. What’s the scoop? What’s the magic key to using the gear?” he said.

“Basically, just don’t fight it. You’ve got to relax into it. Keep your muscles strong but flexible, that’s all, I guess. Oh, and staying still makes it harder to balance. It’s meant for motion, so it’s almost easier to use while in motion, if that even makes sense. Sorry, I’ll let you read the letter he sent me, it’s probably clearer. I’m not that good at describing it,” you said.

“Reading a letter that Captain Levi himself wrote? Y/N, if you let me read that, I’ll literally marry you,” he said seriously. The thought caused a funny feeling in your stomach that you put down to disgust.

“Please refrain. I do not want to marry you, remember?” you said.

“Oh. Well, can I still read the letter, at least?” he said.

“Sure, but maybe after dinner. Both of us had to skip lunch, and I’m hungry. Soon, I’ll be hangry, and then I’ll be yelling at you, my poor concussed baby,” you said with a smirk. As you had expected, he immediately turned red and glared at you.

“Let’s not forget which one of us is older here, Miss Baby!” he shouted, crossing his arms.

“Little baby Eren,” you sang, “Do you want me to swaddle you? Get you a pacifier?”

“No!” he huffed.

“Yes!” you said, “Your father taught me a little about infants. Have you been eating your vitamins?”

“Stop it. I can carry you. You’re the baby here,” he said.

“I can carry you too!” you argued.

“Oh yeah? Try it,” he dared you. Now you couldn’t back down, so with a deep breath, you wrapped your arms around him and tried to lift him off of the table he was sitting on. He did not budge, and eventually, you gave up.

“Fine, I can’t carry you, but I can use the ODM gear, so ha,” you said pettily. Eren looked crestfallen at this.

“That’s true. But you’re going to help me,” he said, and he did not frame it as a question but rather a statement. It was a fair thing to say; you would help him. Of course you would.

“Yes, but we’re going to eat. Let’s go. Hopefully we won’t be stuck with everyone’s gross leftovers again like we were yesterday. And by we I mean Tullia and I, of course,” you said.

“Okay, let’s go. Thanks for cleaning me up, by the way,” he said.

“Anytime. Hey, maybe you should ask Jean and Mikasa for help. The two of them were the best at it out of all of us,” you said.

“I’ll ask Jean, but not Mikasa,” Eren said with a shudder.

“Why not? I’m sure she’d be happy to help you,” you said as you entered the Mess Hall.

“She’d use it as a reason for why I shouldn’t be in the military. Some ‘give up on your dreams’ type of shit or something. You understand, right? You know why I can’t give up?” he said.

“I understand that you’re a stubborn little boy that does what he wants and sends everyone that tries to stop him straight to hell, yes. I know you can’t give up, and I’m not telling you you should, but at the same time, it might not be your choice. If you can’t master the gear, you can’t fight titans. It’s not a complicated concept,” you said. He deflated at the harsh words, but you knew he needed to hear them.

“I know all of that! Do you think I don’t? I just can’t figure out what I’m supposed to do!” he complained, grabbing a tray and two bowls, ladling soup into both of them and handing you the one that was slightly more full.

“Beats me. Look, Jean’s sitting by himself. We can ask him,” you said, putting a steamed potato on your plate and tossing another at Eren, who caught it deftly with one hand and nodded.

“I’m sure he’ll be able to help me! He’s a real prodigy, and a stand-up guy, too. Yeah, Jean’s great!” Eren said happily.

“Surprised to hear you of all people singing my praises, Jaeger, but I’ll admit that it’s pretty nice. Now what do you want?” Jean said as you slid onto the benches beside him. He did not even acknowledge you, and you had to admit that you felt more than a little put out by this. Still, you were sitting with Jean for Eren, not for you, so you brushed aside your feelings and motioned for your best friend to start talking.

“I need your help, Kirstein. I have to be able to use the ODM gear and, well, you’re the best at it, so what’s your advice?” he pleaded before shoving a spoonful of soup in his mouth and giving Jean an expectant look, his eyes wide with desperation.

“My advice is to either be born naturally talented or get the hell out. Weren’t you just saying yesterday that those who are weak don’t belong here and should return to the fields? How ironic,” Jean said flippantly.

“He asked you nicely. You don’t have to be a jerk about it,” you said.

“Aw, you need your little girlfriend to defend your honor?” Jean snickered.

“Seeing as you have neither, can you really be talking?” you said dryly. Both boys looked taken aback; Eren at the fact that you had not denied being his girlfriend, and Jean that you had insulted him. You sighed and stood, grabbing Eren’s arm with one hand and your tray in the other.

“What happened?” Eren said.

“He’s not going to be of any help to us. Come on, we can read Levi’s letters, and then maybe you can ask Reiner to show you or something,” you said, dragging him out of the Mess Hall with you, ignoring the way Jean glared at the both of you. What was his problem? It was like he woke up and decided to be mean, just because he could! He reminded you of Oskar, and you had never really liked Oskar.

“You didn’t say you weren’t my girlfriend earlier,” Eren pointed out. You rolled your eyes.

“Yeah, I wasn’t about to embarrass you further in front of everyone. I’m not cruel like that. We both know we aren’t dating and will never date. That’s all that matters, isn’t it? Now, you should be focusing more on your ODM issues than the state of our relationship. One of those is far more important than the other,” you said.

“Our relationship is important,” he muttered. You softened slightly. You had only just gotten each other back, and you were already acting like some sort of harsh taskmaster or something. True, it was for his own good, but it was also true that he probably didn’t need to be yelled at anymore than he already had been, both by you and everyone else.

“I know it is. But we can worry about all of that later, right? Let’s just make sure you don’t get kicked out of the military first, and then we’ll have enough time to properly catch up with each other,” you said, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“True. I really really do not want to get kicked out of the military,” he said with a small frown.

“Wait out here. Boys aren’t allowed in the girls’ dorms, so I’ll bring the letters out here and we can go through all of them together. There’s only one that was specifically about using the ODM gear, but there might be bits and pieces throughout the others, too,” you said. Eren sat obediently on the porch of the barracks, and you ran inside to grab the mahogany box.

“That’s a lot of letters,” Eren said in awe as he stared at the stack of papers.

“We were pen pals for a year,” you said, “This is the one about the ODM. I’ll start looking through the others.”

You and Eren sat in comfortable silence for a little, rummaging through the different letters, looking for something that might help him out. For you, it was also a trip down memory lane, reminiscing over the different things you and Levi had talked about.

“This is really cool. It’s like an inside look at all of the things the Scouts do. You’re really lucky to have these,” he said. You peered over his shoulder to see which letter in particular he was referring to. It was one about Hange’s experiments. The eccentric scientist was somebody Levi had an interesting relationship with. It was always humorous to read about, at least.

To be honest, you found Hange’s work fascinating. You had been interested in human anatomy when you were younger, and you were eager to learn about whether it applied to titans, as well. You had expressed this interest to Levi in one of your letters, and in the next one, there was a messily scrawled footnote from the scientist herself, along with several of her journals. Though you could not understand most of it, it was still interesting, and you often pored over her research when you were bored.

“Levi really helped me through a lot,” you agreed, “I was...kind of a mess at first. After the fall, you know. Petra and Tullia were there for the worst of it, and then Levi gave me some tough love, and eventually, I realized I would be okay. You were gone, but I would be okay. Yet here you are.”

“I never thought about that. I at least had Armin and Mikasa, but you had no one,” he said. You let out a soft sigh and leaned your head on his shoulder, making yourself comfortable against him and continuing to read.

“Not no one. The Rals and Levi are like family now, and besides, you’re back, so it’s a moot point. And you don’t get to leave me again, you hear? Never again. Even if I came to terms with it, the years I spent thinking you were dead were the worst in my life. I can’t go through that again,” you said, putting the letter in your hands down and picking up a new one.

“I won’t, but you can’t leave me either. Don’t forget, we thought you were dead, too. We’ve been together since we were two. Losing you was like losing a part of myself, the best part,” he said, resting his cheek against your hair.

“Sounds like we’re stuck together, Jaeger,” you said.

“Sounds like it,” he agreed, sounding pleased at the prospect.

“Well, have you found anything in these letters that might help? I’d really rather not leave the military, but if you get kicked out, then that’s what I might have to do. I doubt I’m cut out for working in the fields, but I’m sure there’s always brothels hiring,” you said, considering this. Life as a prostitute would be cruel and unyielding, and it was not something you ever wanted to do, but you did not have the strength to work in the fields for days.

“No way in hell are you working in a brothel!” Eren said, horrified, “You stay in the military, understand? Don’t follow me if that’s your next option.”

“Or maybe you could just not get kicked out,” you offered.

“That’s the plan, but so far, all I’ve learned is that Levi thinks that Hange is a barbarian for putting three sugar cubes in her tea instead of the standard two, and he believes that Petra makes the best tea in his squad,” he said.

“Oh, did he really say that? I must’ve missed it when I read that letter! I’ve gotta tell Tullia! Uh, after we figure out this ODM situation. The truth is, I doubt we’re going to find much more in these letters, though. Most of them are along the lines of that one in the sense that they’re personal things, not military guidebooks. I’m really sorry I couldn’t be of more help,” you said.

“That’s okay. Don’t blame yourself,” he said, letting out a defeated sigh and putting the letters back in their box before neatly closing the lid and giving you a sad smile.

“Come on,” you said, tucking the box under your arm and standing abruptly, pulling him to his feet.

“Where?” he said as you dragged him after you.

“Reiner! Reiner’s strong and talented and good at everything. I’m sure he can help you!” you said in excitement.

“You sure do have a high opinion of Reiner,” Eren commented.

“Duh, of course I do! Have you seen him? He’s amazing! Only Mikasa’s better than him overall, and obviously she is, because she’s Mikasa. If anyone can help you, it’s him!” you gushed as you ran across the courtyard to the boys’ barracks where Reiner and Betholdt probably were staying.

“I guess so,” he said.

“I know so! Now, I’m not allowed in there, so you’ll have to ask him for his help by yourself. You can do that, right?” you said, looking up at him. He scoffed.

“’Course I can, I’m not a chicken. You should probably get to bed now, it’s getting late,” he said, crossing his arms.

“Yeah, you’re right. Okay, goodnight Eren! Good luck! I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you tomorrow,” you said, hugging him tightly before dashing off to the room you shared with Tullia.

The blonde girl was in there, punching a pillow, though why she was doing such a thing, you had no clue.

“What did that poor pillow ever do to you?” you said.

“It bears an unfortunate resemblance to Jean Kirstein’s face,” she responded, still busily punching the pillow.

“I’m sorry, I can’t really see it,” you admitted.

“Use your imagination,” she said, waving you off dismissively before sighing and tossing the pillow aside, collapsing on her bed. You raised an eyebrow at her.

“Done?”

“For the moment,” she said, laying down and resting her head on the very pillow she had just been brutally beating.

“What did Jean do?” you said, changing into your nightclothes and giving her an expectant look.

“It would be better to ask what he didn’t do, but since you asked what he did do, I’ll give you the full story. Basically, he’s a stupid jackass that thinks he’s so cool and amazing just because he’s attractive! Guess what? HE’S UGLY!” she screamed.

“Very ugly,” you agreed.

“SUPER UGLY! He is not pretty enough to be getting away with the shenanigans he tries to get away with!” she raved.

“No pretty privilege for Jean.”

“None! He thinks he can just ignore me? I was trying to be nice so I sat with him, this has nothing to do with my crush by the way, I sat next to him at dinner and I was like ‘hey Jean, how have you been?’ AND GUESS WHAT THE ASSHOLE DID?”

“He didn’t talk to you.”

“HE DIDN’T TALK TO ME! He just looked at me like a stupid fish or something, all open mouthed,” Tullia took a breath to demonstrate the exact facial expression she was referring to, “Then he like squeaked and left? Ugh!”

“Maybe he likes you and got shy. I mean, most people don’t really squeak,” you suggested. Tullia threw the pillow at you, and it hit you square in the face as she blushed but scowled.

“Impossible! Right? Wait, what if you’re right? This is all so complicated!” she said.

“Oh, I have an idea! We can write Levi! He’s a guy, I’m sure he knows all about this sort of thing,” you said, snapping your fingers together in pride at this brilliant idea before reaching under your bed to pull out the stationery you had brought with you for this exact purpose.

“Y/N, you’re literally a genius. By the walls, this is perfect! Levi is going to come through, I just know it. This is why Petra likes him,” Tullia said, shaking her head and watching you as you began to write.

“Okay, I’ll put it in the mailbox tomorrow. We should get the response in a couple of days. Just play it cool with Jean until then, you know? Keep it relaxed, don’t avoid him but don’t seek him out either. Let him decide what he wants to do,” you said.

“I’m so glad I talked to you about this. I’m tired now, though, mind blowing out the candle? Punching that pillow took a lot out of me,” she said, yawning and pulling her blanket up around her shoulders.

“I can only imagine. Yeah, I’m tired too. I had to spend the entire day watching Eren fail miserably with the ODM gear,” you said, blowing out the candle and crawling into your own bed.

“Ouch. You think he’ll be able to pass tomorrow?”

“I hope so. I only just got him back. How cruel would it be for the universe to take him again? Besides, being a Scout is his dream. Armin, Mikasa, and I are only along for the ride. Well, Min-Min wants to see the sea. I guess that’s his dream. Mikasa wants us all to be happy and safe, that’s all she cares about. As for me? I guess my biggest goal is to be worth something. I want to be remembered, Tullia,” you said.

“Remembered?” she said, half-asleep.

“Remembered,” you affirmed, “I want to do something important. I want to change the world, you know?”

“Go to bed. You’re way too fucking philosophical when you don’t get your eight hours,” Tullia groaned, her bed creaking as she rolled over. You let out a small laugh.

“Yeah, okay. Goodnight, Tullia.”

“Good-fucking-night.”

The next day, you downed your breakfast in a few gulps before heading to Commandant Shadis’s office to send your letter to Levi. Once that was done, you joined everyone outside to watch Eren get raised for his final try.

“Did he ever end up asking you for help?” you said, standing next to Reiner, who smiled and nodded at you in greeting.

“Yeah, he did. Him, Bertholdt, Armin, and I went out and had a good long talk last night. I don’t know if it did anything, but it seemed to light a fire in him, at least. Man, that kid’s got more determination in his pinky finger than most people have in their entire bodies. It’s admirable,” he said as the examiners lifted Eren up.

“He’s amazing, isn’t he?” you said, watching as the boy managed to balance. He was doing it! He was doing it. All of your worries had been for nothing. You let out a sigh of relief. He wasn’t going to be kicked out of the military.

You spoke far too soon, as Eren once again fell, his face slamming into the dust. Sympathetic murmurs broke out, and from beside you, Reiner shifted slightly.

“That was weird. It looked like he was doing everything right,” he muttered. You gave Reiner a wide-eyed look.

“You think somebody sabotaged him?” you said.

“Nah, but maybe a malfunction. Look, the Commandant agrees, it’s why he’s getting him to switch belts with Thomas,” Reiner said, motioning towards where Eren was putting on Thomas Wagner’s belt, a bewildered look on both boys’ faces.

“Woah,” you said as Eren hung proudly in the air, not even wobbling once, “So he managed to balance for a few seconds without proper gear? He’s even more amazing than I thought!”

Too amazing. He was better than you, yet again. You were nothing and nobody more than an afterthought. For once, you were almost jealous of how bright he was. He was a roaring inferno, and you were just a campfire, flickering feebly next to his brilliance.

Still, when he smiled at you in pride, as if he were showing you that yes, he had done it, as if he were begging you to be proud of him, too, you found it all too easy to smile back. If it was your fate to always be second to him, then you would be the best second there had ever been, and if you were cursed to be a pawn to his king, then you would let him manipulate you as he pleased.

Levi’s response to your letter came earlier than you had expected. You and Tullia ripped it open eagerly, waiting to see what words of wisdom the legendary Captain had sent you. For some reason, the paper was littered with spots where it looked like tears had fallen and dried, as if he had had some sort of a mental breakdown while writing.

Dear Brat,

I’m a thirty two year old virgin. Don’t fucking ask me about boys ever again.

Sincerely, Captain Levi Survey Corps, Special Operations Squad

“Well, there goes that idea. Looks like we’ll have to figure out this Jean mystery the old-fashioned way: by talking to him,” you sighed.

“Oh, call me a lunchbox and fuck me! This is awful!” Tullia said, throwing her hands up in the air in despair. You gave her a startled look.

“What? Actually, no. Do not elaborate on that.”

taglist (send an ask or dm to be added): @futuristicxie

#eren x reader #armin x reader #eren x you #armin x you #eren x y/n #armin x y/n #canon au #reader insert #endure #m1ckeyb3rry writes

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boydepartment · 1 year ago

Text

TXT as Creepypasta Stories

a/n: okay so i was a little nervous to post this however i am in a spooky mood and i just wanted to put out something a little silly and fun. i grew up on creepypastas so i wanted to put this out :) i really hope none of you find this post weird LMAO warnings- this is HORROR so subjects of death, bullying, etc is present in this post. i tried to censor it as much as i could and i added my little comments in this as best as i could to make them more lighthearted

MASTERLIST wc- probably like 250-300

soobin- lavender town

lavender town syndrome was derived from the first pokémon game. the bgm of the town in the game had frequencies that led to kids yaknow dying. later on nintendo lowered the frequencies so kids stopped dying‼️

this one was a classic and soobin loves pokémon so i really thought it fit him :)

link to creepypasta

yeonjun- ticci toby

ticci toby’s story is about this kid who’s like extremely bullied and it’s kinda fucked up that the creator named him ticci toby because i’m 90% sure he has tourettes in the story. but that’s besides the point. he ends up like getting rid of his dad and runs in the woods, then gets adopted into the slenderman mansion ⁉️ that’s if i’m remembering correctly LMAO im relistening to the story rn, i forgot how well it was written

I HONESTLY JUST GAVE HIM TICCI TOBY BC I USED TO HAVE A CRUSH ON TOBY WHEN I WAS LIKE 11 now im older than ticci toby and i feel ancient.

link to creepypasta

taehyun- jeff the killer

okay gonna be fr, the only reason why i remember his story so well is because of laurenzsides sims 4 rendition of the creepypasta. jeff was this kid who had a really hot brother(sorry(I AM LIU’S AGE NOW THIS IS A WIN)) and two parents. from what i remember everything was chill w his parents and brother but he was just bullied. and then at a birthday party he got lit on fire??? and bleached??? then he kills everyone. OH MY GOD THE KIDS LIKE BULLIED HIM⁉️⁉️⁉️⁉️ I DO NOT REMEMBER THIS AT ALL⁉️⁉️⁉️ oh his parents were nice :( this is so sad

i thought giving taehyun a classic was good for him. jeff the killer is like THE creepypasta just like kang taehyun is THE hot guy 😇

link to the laurenzside sims 4 creepypasta video lol

beomgyu- russian sleep experiment

the russian sleep experiment was, you guessed it, an experiment. from what i remember the experiment was conducted during a war to test endurance. the prisoners from said war were told they would be set free if they followed through with the experiment. the prisoners were locked in a room and the scientists leaked this gas in the room to keep the prisoners from sleeping, without having sleep the prisoners go insane and start to kill eachother

the russian sleep experiment is honestly my favorite creepypasta. i read it a few years ago and then shane and ryan read it on are you scared and i was hooked. i feel like beomgyu would really like it.

link to the watcher video explaining the russian sleep experiment

hueningkai- ben drowned

basically this guy, finds a bootleg majoras mask game and starts getting haunted by this kid named ben who once again you guessed it! drowned! okay apparently there was a cult i don’t remember that at all if i’m being fr.

I LOVE ANYTHING LOZ AND IDK I THINK THAT IT FITS HIM‼️

link to the creepypasta

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inappropriate-aunt · 4 days ago

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So I have a new gym membership! I cancelled my other one in June because it was getting too expensive (and it had started expensive!) and I figured I could just run outside while it was warm. But winter is now on full blast here (high of 22F/-5C with wind chill making it feel like 4F/-15C and ice on the roads where I run), so I needed an indoor workout place.

I really missed having a gym! The atmosphere of everyone working out encourages me to do a few more core exercises and properly finish my cool down. I lost a bit of fitness last year due to illness and injury, or rather, my fitness efforts went into rehab efforts instead, which is good! No more back pain and a much stronger core for building up my running fitness.

I know there's a joke about the New Year New Me people in the gym acting like lunatics in January, but honestly I think at my old gym I always saw the scariest behavior in the summer. I once saw a guy stand on an unsecured bar on a rack (you know, the one you use to load plates on) so he could reach the top of the rack to do pull ups (there is a step nearby you are supposed to use for this). I was watching him while I was running so I couldn't do anything, but me and this older guy on the treadmill next to me were like...oh man, are we about to watch this dude paralyze himself? So I guess now is a good time to remind everyone-

Never risk your body for gains, people. No matter how confident you are in your balance or strength.

It's just not worth it. I mean, I think a big reason why I hurt my knee last year is that I refused to stop running long enough for it to heal, and I wasn't doing enough strength and conditioning. My goal last year was to do a half marathon, and I never got there because of that. So I'm not setting a distance/race goal this year, and instead want to focus on keeping my workouts more balanced. Limiting my runs to when I'm fully rested and replacing one run with a bike should let me train more consistently, and consistency is key.

After all, life is an endurance test, not a race.

#fitness #running #gym #cardio #all that good stuff

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adladladl · 10 days ago

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2024.

Having failed my second attempt at the Professional Engineering exam, I was left feeling dazed and confused. Am I in the right place? Is this what I want to do?

I know that I can do anything I want so is engineering really the path I want to go down? My personality doesn’t even fit with engineers. In my social life, I thought I could be awkward and shy but compared to some of these engineers, I look like an extroverted social butterfly. Even my way of reasoning and logic seems opposite to how engineers are supposed to think.

Yet, something told me that engineering is the path for me to get to where I want to be.

Aside from my PE exam, I was also let go from my assistant coaching position. Someone I thought was my close friend felt threatened by my way of coaching and leading. I understood that this would free up more time to study but the whole ordeal of how it went down impacted my confidence.

If it weren’t for the director and other assistant coaches meeting with me to hear my side of the story and affirming that I was in the right, I was able to let go of the position and really focus on what I needed to do.

Around July, I signed up for a course to help me pass my exam, which would start in August. A couple weeks after signing up, I met Melanie.

Melanie was almost my dream girl. When it comes to physical appearance and energy level, there’s no one that compares. However, the one small but evidently very significant, was our spiritual connection. I felt your spirit and you felt mine. It was strong but subdued like strong magnets that were placed just far enough that they didn’t attract but the magnetic field is there. It came to an end abruptly but it worked out for the best. Things ended right in the middle of my course.

I thought this was it. Known for being emotional and a helpless romantic, people should’ve bet on me to fail my exam yet again.

December 9, 2024, I passed my exam.

Truth is, I didn’t study as hard or as perfectly as I wanted to. I wasn’t completely sober and fresh minded as I wanted to be during this time. So how did I do?

I did what needed to be done. Learn by doing.

1. Show up and show out

I made it to every single class. No matter how hungover, how tired, or how comfortable it was to stay in bed, I made sure I was in class by 7:30am. Even if I spent the night at someone else’s, one thing was for sure, I was in class the next day.

2. Practice makes perfect

After the course ended, I started with my review. Reading the notes to really understand the concept, redoing examples. After reviewing the notes, I completed the practice problems for each topic, reviewing the questions I answered correctly to ensure my logic was correct, questions I answered wrong to understand where my logic was wrong, and questions I guessed to understand what the heck is going on. I honestly felt really defeated around here. Missing many questions and feeling like there’s too many topics to cover.

3. Game time speed

After completing the review and practice problems, I took three practice simulation exams. For these, I set myself in the test environment. Quiet desk in the library alone, headphones with no music to block out noise, only using resources that will be available during the test, and keeping strict timing. It was after my first test, I knew I could pass this time.

I took a week off work to complete these three tests, taking a day in between to review each test.

4. Game Day

I had already put in what I needed to pass and I knew it. Confidence reaches new heights.

In 2024, I only really wanted one thing. To pass this exam, and I did it.

In 2025, I will:

-pass the survey/seismic exams to obtain my PE License by July

-explore options available with PE (move out of the desert) thru December

-find Mrs.Lee

Thank you Lord for giving me the power, endurance and wisdom to continue on my engineering journey. For 2025, please continue to give me strength so I can strive for greatness in your name.

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giggly-squiggily · 2 years ago

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Eyya Squiggily! I hope you're doing okay! It feels like it's been forever since I've actually had time to send in a request lately, I saw your event open and decided now would be a good time to send something in since I'm going on vacation next weekend! No pressure to do anything with it if you don't want to obviously though! I'll be excited to see whatever you write regardless!^^ 💖

I just recently finished watching mugen train (rest in peace my poor heart 💀) and I got this cute idea from one of the end credit scenes when Tanjiro was talking about Rengoku's apparently really tough training regimen for his tsugoku. I thought it would be pretty cute if whenever his students start to get frustrated or burned out, he'll sometimes trick them into an 'endurance test' that actually just means he's using it as an excuse to playfully tickle them a little to help them get out of their slump a bit. I think Rengoku and Tanjiro would be cute for this, but honestly just do whoever and whatever you like with it! No pressure, as always, and I hope you have fun with the event!

JJEJRKJEKJRJK FRIEND THIS IS ADORABLE! God I love Rengoku, and I love Tanjiro! I've gotcha covered :D

This was harder than Tanjiro anticipated.

“Don’t lose faith, young Tanjiro! You are doing great!” Rengoku called from his spot beside Mitsuri, a basket of sweets between them as Tanjiro spun and sliced.

Well- more like spun and tripped, really.

“Ugh, this is impossible!” After what felt like the hundredth fail, Tanjiro lowered his blade, shoulders heaving and vision blurry with sweat. “Mr. Rengoku- I don’t think this is gonna work out.”

“Don’t give up, Tanjiro! I know you can do it!” Mitsuri cheered around a mouthful of mochi, waving her treat like a glow stick. “You can do anything!”

“Thanks, but I think this might be a first.” Shaking his head, he paused briefly at the thoughtful look upon the Flame Hashira’s face. “Mr. Rengoku?”

“Hm, it seems we’re in need of that. Don’t you agree, Mitsuri?” At the mention of…whatever it was, Mitsuri’s eyes went wide. With a muffled squeak, she swallowed the rest of her treat, a playful grin pulling on her sugar dusted lips.

“Absolutely! We definitely need to do that!”

“Um, excuse me…what’s that?” Tanjiro looked between them, unsure of where this was going or if he was gonna like it.

Then they smiled at him and he was absolutely SURE he wasn’t gonna like it.

“Wait- wait, nevermind I’ll try again! I’ll try agai-AN!” Tanjiro tried to run, but he was no match for two Hashria. He was on the ground in seconds. “Wait! Wahhahhahahait, stahhahahahhaap ihihihihihiihit!”

“There we are- Kyojuro Rengoku's method to curing frustration!” Rengoku’s hands flew across Tanjiro’s belly and sides, scribbling against the softer parts with gleeful abandon. “After this, you’ll be ready to train once more! Isn’t that right, Mitsuri?”

“Absolutely, Kyo!” She agreed, her hands keeping Tanjiro’s arms up above his head with ease. “You used to do this to me and Senjuro all the time! And now Tanjiro gets to be part of the tradition!” She giggled softly at the loud squeaks and squeals the younger boy let out. “I think he likes it!”

“Oh really? Well let’s give him some more!”

“Okay!”

“AHEHAHHAHAHAHHHAHA!” Tanjiro cackled, squirming like a worm as he was tickled senselessly.

Well…maybe they weren’t wrong about the whole “liking it” thing.

Send me a headcanon and I'll write a dabble for it!

#headcanons to dabbles #tickle #tickle dabble #fluff #demon slayer #rengoku kyojuro #mitsuri kanroji #tanjiro kamado #they are a team of dorks everyone :D

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scriptlgbt · 2 years ago

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I'm writing a story and I'd like to how trans people get/treat STDs. If they haven't had bottom surgery is it no different than someone with those parts who is cis? But if they have, what differences are there? How about someone with no genitals?

In general it's pretty much the same as it would be for cis people. Bloodwork and a urine sample are the standard, and aren't really any different based on what someone's genitalia is like.

Pap smears and other sorts of exams can be dysphoria inducing as well, and there's some situation where it may be difficult to use a speculum because of atrophy (which can be for all sorts of reasons, hormones, vaginismus, imperforate hymen, intersex stuff). And people whose vaginas are surgically constructed don't typically have a cervix, so pap smears don't really get done as far as I know. (Sometimes speculums are used for other things though, like making sure everything is healing right, trimming or removing stitches from surgery, etc.)

But for the most part, the differences for STI testing specifically are mostly social, and can go different ways based on who is administering the test. Pap smears are in particular stressful for trans people who may have genitalia that's been altered by hormones. (I know it's irrational but the worry about getting a boner during a pap test, for instance, has crossed my mind a lot.)

Some other testing can be thrown for a loop because of the way procedure etiquette works. I had to have a transvaginal ultrasound once to check for ovarian cysts and there were definitely parts of it that were weird for me. (Transvaginal ultrasounds involve the ultrasound wand going inside the front hole for an accurate reading of specific parts of the reproductive system.) For instance, the ultrasound tech was a cis man and as part of their protocol, a cis woman nurse had to be in the room while I underwent this procedure. I hadn't asked about that ahead of time or really thought anything about it - I was in the emergency room trying to get to the bottom of extreme abdominal pain and I figured I could endure what I needed to. But in an ideal world, I'd be able to ask for a non cis person to be in the room with me I think. (I came in an ambulance, which would not take my partner with me.) (It turned out to be a 4mm kidney stone by the way, no ovarian cysts.)

Another anecdote that may be relevant to this topic is that sometimes doctors get weird about not knowing what you're testing for, because they don't know what body parts you have (and which were added at what points, made of what material). Prior to the transvaginal ultrasound, a doctor asked me what "chromosomes" I had. I honestly told him I did not know, I hadn't ever had a karyotype test as far as I knew. The doctor stumbled over himself a lot and I don't remember what else he said right after that, other than he was fumbling, got corrected, and that he was clearly Trying His Best. I interrupted the second or third useless question with, "are you asking if I have ovaries in case it might be a burst ovarian cyst or something?"

He was instantly relieved and said yes, so I told him.

There's a big problem I've noticed, that when people talk about these sorts of topics, they aren't specific enough in order to address what they mean. We use euphemisms like "assigned female" because people don't know that someone "assigned female" can have literally any body type. People seem afraid to name body parts, so they use euphemisms that rely on stereotypes and assumptions in order to be understood. But when you realize that people "assigned female" can be intersex, can have hysterectomies, can have testes, can have phalloplasties, and that everyone's parts are more or less analogous (skenes gland = prostate, etc), you realize how useless these broad categories are. If you want to ask if someone could carry a pregnancy, ask if they could carry a pregnancy. Not if they have certain chromosomes or were DFAB. Specifics matter. If I knew I was XY, that doctor would probably have assumed that the pattern of people with XY chromosomes not menstruating would include me. And if I did have ovarian cysts, or even a pregnancy, this could have dramatically impacted my health outcomes. (There have been stillbirths because of situations like this where people did not act fast enough because of ignorance around trans bodies.) I could have given in and guessed my chromosomes when the doctor asked, but what if my answer turned out to not be true? And what if the lack of confidence in my answer saved my life in some way?

I realize this is pretty far deviated from your original topic, but in terms of testing difficulties, it does feel like the sort of anecdote that would be very informative about these issues.

- mod nat

#mod nat #trans #writeblr #writing advice #reproductive care #reproductive health #reproductive freedom #pregnancy and reproductive #reproductive autonomy #doctors #medical #trans: medical #trans: bodies #hey don't plagiarize my life by the way #I feel like this should go without saying but someone sent an ask some years ago wanting to ask about my child abuse experience #for their writing. and it just felt really uncozy because this is not ScriptTrauma or ScriptTorture and I didn't sign up for that #just because I share a thing to illustrate a concept does not make it your writing material #it's just an example. plus I'm going to write about it myself. get yer own life experiences to write about etc

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purgemarchlockdown · 1 year ago

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Hmm thinking about the Shidou-Amane Parallels...or more accurately Shidou-Amane's Father parallels.

We know little about Amane's father but the way Shidou treats Amane and how dismissive he can act when it comes to her and her feelings makes me think. It honestly feels like he wants to help her out less for her sake but for His sake.

This timeline especially makes me think.

22/10/24 (Shidou’s Birthday)

Amane: ……Kirisaki Shidou. How long do you plan on continuing this foolish behaviour? Shidou: I wonder what you might be referring to there. I’m just doing what I need to do. If anything, I’d be happy if you would lend me a hand. Amane: I warned you. I can no longer turn a blind eye to this wickedness taking place right in front of us. You’re bringing ruin unto yourself. Do you understand? Shidou: No, I don’t understand. It’s my job as an adult to teach you that throwing a temper tantrum isn’t going to make everything go your way. If it’s a test of endurance you want, I’m happy to oblige, Amane.

Which...well makes me think of this.

Amane: Okay! I’m kind, so I shall forgive you. That’s nice, isn’t it? If my parents were in my place, you would have been lectured for another hour.

And look, what he's doing is Clearly Not As Bad As Amane's Abuse. Shidou isn't doing this because he wants to hurt Amane or anything like that. This is coming from some sort of Want to help her.

However, considering Amane's relationship with "childishness" and "vulgarity" and the knowledge that she probably has been punished for This Exact Justification (that as an adult its their job to teach her that throwing a "temper tantrum" isn't what she's supposed to do.)

Admittedly, Shidou as a character eludes me but I'm thinking about this because I think Mahiru is being paralleled with Amane's Mother and since Mahiru and Shidou are paired up I was wondering if there was a possible connection there.

My verdict is: Probably but I haven't looked too far into it yet, just thinking about the possibility.

#cw child abuse

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saralayne · 1 year ago

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A Chenford Love Story🩵💜

Journey of Chenford

Chapter 1 ~ Tim’s Feelings

Lucy Chen, his rookie had slowly grown on him. It started out as how he usually trained any rookie. He was a hard ass. He honestly didn't have that much faith in her. He wasn't convinced she would cut it as an officer for the LAPD. Lucy didn't waiver. She endured all his 'Tim Tests'. Tests that would usually break his rookies. Even just a little, did not break Lucy...Not even in the slightest. Tim began to realize his newest boot was for real.

As he continued to be her TO. a friendship slowly started to blossom. Tim, of course was still hard on her but only because he knew she could handle it. He had no doubt in his mind she was going to excel as a police officer and he was dedicated to preparing her for excellence.

Through this time, with many reservations Lucy had become Tim's friend. Close friends even. She had wormed her way into his life much to his dismay.

That fateful day, where Tim pulled his 'friend' out of the barrel and breathed life back into her. This was a game changer. As Lucy was sobbing. He just held her tight up against his chest. Cradling his hand around the back of her head. He hadn't lost her. Thinking in that moment what she had just endured. Tim was angry, anyone hurting or even touching his girl broke him. 'his girl'. He realized in that very moment, she was much more than his friend.

"I can't have feelings for Lucy. How did this happen?

There wasn't anything he could do. He couldn't stop this wave of emotions that was hitting him. His heart belonged to her. The worst part was he knew nothing could ever happen.

Tim was by Lucy's bedside in the hospital all night. Even though, when she woke up, he played it cool and told her he hadn't been there all night. Lucy knowing her TO and friend did not believe what he was saying for a second. Lucy was safe and only staying in the hospital for observation , being released the next day. She convinced Tim to go home. She was OK.

"Tim, Go home. Shower. Get some rest and see our boy"

"OK. If you need anything, please call me. I will check in later"

Tim arrived home. He was excitedly met by Kojo. Tim changed his clothes and took 'their' boy for a walk.

"Well my boy. Mama is OK. I sure know now why you get so excited when you see her. She's something special, isn't she?"

"Woof! Woof"

"I feel the same. I love her just like you do. I can't act on those feelings. Not now, anyway but I sure hope someday. Maybe, one day the three of us will be a family"

"WOOF! WOOF!"

Chapter 2 ~ Lucy’s Feelings

When Lucy realized her feelings for Tim.

There had been a few moments where Lucy's feelings were apparent. Definitely, after the harrowing Caleb ordeal and knowing how Tim saved her life, changed things. What really shifted her feelings was after her best friend Jackson, was killed. Her heart had been shattered. Jackson had been her best friend since the academy, He was also Lucy's roommate. Going on without him seemed daunting. Lucy and Jackson were rookies together, and had been through so much together. Not having that constant in her life seemed unimaginable.

After watching the video where he was killed. It was like living in her own nightmare. She was doing everything to not go home. Tim offered his place. Lucy, of course, did not want to impose. They were friends, sure they were. But she felt like she would be a burden. He reassured her that she shouldn't be alone and that's when she finally agreed. The emotions of the day were overwhelming. Lucy felt like she was going to break. Tim asked if there was anything she needed.

"A hug"

That alone made her nervous. Was this crossing a line? Friends hug each other all the time, especially when going through a hard time...Right?. Lucy was overanalyzing everything, which was just how she is. He also held her close after he saved her. They have comforted one another before. "Lucy...snap out of it" She thought to herself.

Next thing she knew, he was pulling her close to him for a hug. It felt electric. The comfort no one else could give her. The comfort she needed from the only man she wanted it from.

Chapter 3 ~ Denial

The power of denial for both Tim and Lucy.

As time passes. Both Lucy and Tim hit a wall of denial. To be fair, them being together would add complications to their careers. It would be worse for Tim as a TO and Superior Officer over many including Lucy. Eventually, they were able to bury any residual feelings for each other. It just wasn't worth the consequences. Neither confessed how they felt to one another so there was no awkwardness. They were able to build and maintain a close friendship.

As in staying in denial mode. Tim met Ashley who was the daughter of a retired police officer, Jerry McGrady. Tim had a lot of respect for Jerry. Ashley was a lifeguard. Tall, thin and blond. A strong resemblance to his ex wife, Isobel. They didn't have a lot in common. Ashley was easy going and fun. Tim was content to give their relationship a good shot and it just seemed to work.

Lucy had met Chris Sanford. An ADA lawyer. He was good looking, sweet and really cared about Lucy. They had a lot of fun together. Like Tim's relationship, they didn't have a lot in common but they gelled. He appreciated Lucy's true crime love and she genuinely enjoyed his company.

Both Tim and Lucy were settling. It became safe. Something they both convinced themselves was going to make them happy. The denial was a force. Neither of them was going to allow themselves to really feel their true feelings. Amazingly enough they were able to play the part well. Their significant others never saw through their denial. Even after the double date where it was apparent who really had a connection. Ashley and Chris were still oblivious.

Life was going well for both Tim and Lucy. They had built an amazing friendship. They had a shorthand with one another. There was no complications. Just a true blue friendship. They both cherished that, They always had each others backs. It was safe and comfortable.

Denial is a funny thing.

It eventually needs to be met on head on.

Chapter 4 ~ Tims MVP Angela

Tim's best friend sets him straight on his feelings. Brings Tim out of his denial.

Angela Lopez has been Tim Bradford's best friend for many years now. She had been there when his marriage to Isobel imploded. She saw how it broke Tim to the core. She saw him go through the darkness. Angela stood right by his side as he navigated himself through his heartbreak. She saw Tim at his best and at his worst.

Angela had always seen a big connection between Tim and Lucy. She didn't push things as she knew what a rule follower her close friend was. He would never cross any line while he is Lucy's superior. Angela secretly always hoped that would change. She always thought 'If Tim could see his face when he's around her or even when her name is brought up. His face literally LIGHTS UP like a Christmas tree'

When Tim started dating Ashley. Angela was a little disappointed. She didn't see Ashley being the love of his life. They had zero in common. Angela was truthfully surprised it had lasted this long. Sure, Ashley was tall, thin, a blond and blue eyed pretty girl. But in the long run that was not going to ensure Tim's happiness. Angela never made a real effort but she was cordial to Ashley. She would always stand by her best friends side even if she wasn't in agreement.

Even while Tim and Lucy were both in relationships. Angela couldn't believe the connection they still had with each other. She would take little jabs at her best friend, trying to get him to admit ANYTHING but could never get him to break. Although, she did notice his facial expressions and it was obvious.

On one occasion...

"Timothy, do you have feelings for Lucy?"

"NOOO. Lucy is with Chris. I'm dating Ashley. And I'm her superior officer...SOOO"

'All true. Not what I asked"

Still, not admittance. Just denial.

On another occasion...

"So tell me again. What were you doing at Lucy's apartment when you found Chris bleeding out?"

"Just dropping her off after we got back from Vegas"

"Mhmmm"

Still, so much denial.

Tim an Ashley had broken up after his spinal surgery.

Finally, Angela had enough. She was going to get Tim to admit his feelings once and for all. Angela clicked on her and Tim's texting thread.

Angela: "Timothy, I need to talk to you. I know It's your day off tomorrow. Can you meet me at the food trucks?"

Tim: "Umm alright. What time? Is everything OK?"

Angela: "Everything is OK. Around 11:30?"

Tim: "OK. See you then"

Angela got to the food trucks at 11:15. Ordered some food. burritos of course. Found a seat. Shortly later, Tim walked up.

"Timothy, Hello there"

"OK Ang, This is ominous. What is this about?"

"Tim. I'm gonna get right to the point. I'm ripping the band aid off. What the hell are you waiting for?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Lucy...Tim, I mean Lucy. You know damn well your in love with her and If I'm being honest, you have been for a while now"

Tim sighed. Swiping the back of his hand across the forehead. Tim knew he couldn't deny it any longer. His feelings had become even stronger since their return from Vegas. It was just a matter of time before Angela saw through the denial.

"Yeah. Your not wrong. But she's still with Chris"

"Tim, listen to me. I and everyone else sees how Lucy looks at you when your in the room and when she's talking about you...which is often by the way. You have always voiced how you follow protocol and rules. Of course, she isn't going to tell you. She's probably petrified of being rejected and having her heart broken. She's still with Chris because he is safe BUT he is not the one she loves"

"Ang, your right. I'm a rule follower and I probably will always be that way. But when it comes to Lucy, I would gladly say 'screw the rules'. I love her so goddamn much. It literally hurts. I don't want to make any excuses anymore. I want to date her. I want to wake up to her everyday. I want it all with her"

"FINALLY"

"Go get your girl. Tell her all of this. I guarantee, Chris will be a thing of the past"

Chapter 5: Lucy’s MVP Aaron

Aaron of all people gets Lucy to see her true feelings.

Lucy was certain she needed to break things off with Chris. After feeling nothing but anxiety over him wanting them to purchase a house together. It was evident. She didn't love Chris, the way he loved her. After the conversation with Tim. He really struck a chord with her. Lucy had found herself stopping from letting her true feelings spill from her mouth.

"Lucy, you deserve someone who is worth the effort"

And then...

"Do you love him?"

"I feel like I should love him...It's just...he's NOT"

She barely was able to stop herself from uttering that three letter word...YOU.

Those feelings she had kept away so well, were being brought back up to the surface. There was no denial. Ignoring how she truly felt became exhausting.

Aaron, well relatively new to Wilshire, had become friends with everyone, including Lucy. Aaron had quietly seen the dynamic between Lucy and Tim. Having a chance to ride with both in the shop. After Tim's breakup, he saw the tension. He had always thought Ashley was not a good match for Tim and knew Lucy was never all in with Chris.

'When are these idiots going to just admit it'. This ran through his mind frequently.

As Lucy and Aaron were riding in the shop. Lucy came right out and told him she needed to break up with Chris.

"FINALLY"

Aaron, wanting to speed things along, even helped Lucy rehearse the breakup and what she might say. Lucy was so sweet and heartfelt, Even talking herself out of it on order not to hurt Chris.

Later, as they had a coffee break in the shop.

"Lucy, I know we haven't been friends a long while. But i feel I owe you some brotherly love. Chris is a nice guy, really he is. And if things were different he might even be good for you. But not when there is someone else who you CLEARLY love and who loves you too, by the way. Stop settling"

Finally, after years the gate opened.

"Aaron, I love Tim so much. I'm so in love with him. I feel so guilty I strung Chris along. I was just so scared at the consequences for us being together. I can't keep going on like this. I can't care about the risks anymore. Tim is my forever. All I want to do is hold onto him and never let him go. A fantasy I constantly have is laying in bed with Tim, snuggling and having Kojo at the end of OUR bed. The three of us. A family"

"Lucy, deal with Chris once and for all. Then, you go to Tim and tell him exactly how you feel. Trust me, he feels the same. It's as clear as day on how he feels"

Chapter 6 ~ Confessions

FINALLY. Tim and Lucy admit their feelings to each other.

Lucy had broken up with Chris. She felt bad especially seeing how hurt he was but also knew she had to be selfish, think about herself and think about the life she really wanted. She felt a twinge of guilt but it escaped quickly knowing how in love with Tim she was. All she really felt was regret for not being honest with her feelings until now. It was almost a sense of relief.

Lucy had asked Tim to have a talk with her after work. She suggested they take Kojo for a walk. Less pressure, nothing extravagant. Just somewhere normal to them where they can be honest and open with each other.

Lucy met Tim and Kojo at their favorite trail parking lot. As they made their way down the trail...At first, an awkward silence but leave it to Lucy to break any barrier.

"So, I broke up with Chris"

"Oh...How did he take it?"

"He was upset and shocked. But it was inevitable. The writing was on the wall"

"Are you OK Lucy?"

"That depends on how this goes"

"Huh. Lucy, What do you mean by that?"

"Tim, I'm in love with you. I'm sorry to be so blunt and forthcoming. But I can't handle keeping my feelings in any longer. I have loved you for so long. I know with our professional situation saying this could be a recipe for my heart to be broken into a million pieces. I just needed to tell you. If there was even a chance at getting my happy ending. It is worth the risk. I know this is heavy. I - I'm sorry Tim"

"Lucy...Stop just stop. Let me talk. Your heart is not in jeopardy of breaking because I'm so in love with you too. Actually, I'm sure you're the love of my life. You're it for me. I know I'm Mr. rule follower but somethings matter more. We will fill out paperwork, have interviews and whatever else. As long as at the end of the day...I go to sleep and wake up with you in my arms and I get to stare into those beautiful brown eyes of yours"

Lucy had tears swelling in her eyes. Her heart was bursting at the seams.

"Tim, where do we go from here?"

"I think we start by going out on a date"

"That sounds...PERFECT"

They continued on their walk with Kojo. Hand in hand.

Chapter 7 ~ First Date

Tim and Lucy go on their first date.

This didn't feel like a first date. They had already confessed their love for one another. It felt they were way past a first date. But even still, Tim wanted to take her on a date to remember. At first, Tim thought about a 'perfect date'. Soon, he realized it didn't need to be extravagant. He just wanted to do something romantic to show Lucy just how much he loved her.

He booked a reservation at a nice beach side restaurant and then he planned to take Lucy on a night stroll along the beach.

When Tim arrived to pick Lucy up at her apartment. Dressed in a nice button up shirt and black dress pants. Tim looked handsome. Lucy walked out in the famous green dress she wore to Angela and Wes's wedding that ended up never happening. Nevertheless, that dress drove Tim insane. As he stared into her eyes, he was literally speechless.

"Lucy, you look SO BEAUTIFUL"

"You look pretty damn handsome, yourself"

As they sat down at their table. Conversation flowed. There was no awkwardness. Almost felt like a married couple going on a date night. As they finished their meals, Tim was paying the bill.

"Tim, this is the perfect date. It was so us and just felt right. Thank you so much for a wonderful night"

"It's not over yet. We are going to go for a walk along the beach"

"Tim, You don't like the beach"

"Maybe, but you love the beach. Truthfully, I will go anywhere with you. Especially, If I can witness you lighting up and seeing that beautiful smile"

"Tim, You have turned into a complete softie"

"Only with you, Baby. I have a reputation to uphold"

As they walked hand in hand along the beach. A slight breeze, waves quietly crashing. It felt magical.

"So Tim, We have a couple days off. is there going to be a second date?"

"Well, I had a thought. I think we should go to your place, so you can pack a bag. You come home with me. Spend the whole weekend with Kojo and I. We can watch movies and cuddle all weekend. All I wanna do is keep my arms wrapped around you for 48 hours. Give or take a few hours to eat and take Kojo on his walks"

"That sounds PERFECT"

"I feel like the luckiest girl in the world"

"Oh BABY. I'm the lucky one"

Chapter 8 ~ Cats Out Of The Bag

Everyone finds out. Not such a surprise as Tim and Lucy thought it would be.

After their date, Tim and Lucy had a blissful weekend together. Heat, passion. Also, a lot of cuddling. They felt so free. Finally, able to express how they felt for one another. For years now. They knew they couldn't live in this love bubble forever.

As they laid in bed. Lucy wrapped around Tim's warm and safe body. It seemed magical and straight out of a dream.

"Tim, I'm so happy, I can't remember a time feeling this much happiness"

"Me too, Baby. I think the first thing on Monday is to talk to Grey. We can take our time with everyone else. We should start the paperwork. Because I want to be with you fully in everyway"

The next day, both Tim and Lucy knocked on Grey's door.

Tim started

"Sir, can we talk to you for a minute?"

"Bradford. Chen. This is ominous. Is everything OK?"

"Everything is more than OK. So, we won't go into all the details on how this started but Chen and I need to fill out paperwork. We are...Ummm...Seeing each other. We are dating"

"I see. OK, Here's the paperwork. All ready to go, with your names on it"

Lucy stepped forward.

"You already had the paperwork ready?"

Both Tim and Lucy had a confused expression on their face.

"You two didn't do as good as a job at hiding residual feelings for each other as you might think. I have seen this coming for a while now. I give you both credit. You lasted longer than I thought you would...You know living in denial"

As they left Grey's office. Walking together. Both were blindsided at their meeting.

"So, Officer Bradford. Apparently we didn't do a good job at hiding out feelings"

"Nope. We sure didn't"

Tim had a smile on his face that was reminiscent of a high school boy in love.

"Bradford, I think we should let everyone else in on our happy news"

After roll call, Tim asked everyone to join them in the break room, As he had some news to share. Smiles smeared across all their friends faces. As they all gathered.

Angela blew the whistle on their news.

"So are you two finally letting yourselves onto the big secret that we all have seen coming for years now? Did you finally get your head out of your asses and FINALLY admit how you feel about each other?"

In shock again, Tim and Lucy stood there completely still.

Tim began talking

"Well apparently, We can't surprise anyone today. Yes, Lopez. Chen and I are together. We are dating".

"FINALLY"

Clapping and cheering erupted from the break room. As Lucy left with her patrol partner, Aaron and everyone exited the break room. Angela stayed back.

"Well Bradford. I'm so glad you finally took the plunge. You deserve to be happy"

"Ang, I have never been happier. Not even with Isobel. I have never felt like this before. I love her so much. It's unreal. "

"Good. This transition, especially professional, might raise some challenges but always fight for your happiness. Fight for Lucy. She's worth it"

"I will. Yes. She's WORTH IT ALL"

Chapter 9 ~ The Three Of Us

Next big step. Moving in together.

Tim and Lucy have been together for 6 months.

Tamara was living on campus at college. She had a steady boyfriend and was very busy in law school but made a point to have dinner with Lucy once a week. Often, Tim joined them. Tamara always saw both Lucy and Tim as her unofficial parents. Officer Zaddy always stuck with Tamara.

Lucy spent most nights with Tim at his place. Just going home every so often when they would spend a rare night apart.

Lucy had passed her Detectives exam and was working alongside Angela and Nyla. Professionally, it became much easier as Lucy didn't report to Tim. They were now in separate departments. There were no HR issues. With this, they were able to really commit to their relationship with no outside roadblocks.

Tim seemed distracted on this particular morning. Lucy and Nyla were out on a case. Angela was doing some paperwork around the station. She saw Tim stewing at his desk.

"Timothy, What's going on?"

"Lopez. I'm fine"

"Mhmm, You should tell your face your 'fine'"

"Fine. I'm just contemplating something. I want to ask Lucy to move in with me. She spends most nights with me. I'm just nervous. I don't want her to feel like I'm moving too fast. It's just...I hate waking up without her beside me. My home was always my home but now it feels like OUR HOME. It feels empty and dark when she's not there"

"Timothy, Don't worry about rushing things. You two should have been together for years now. This is the next step and I'm sure you will be pleased with Lucy's response"

Lucy arrived at Tim's later as she was finishing up a case. As she walked in, something smelt delicious. On the table there were lit candles. Soulful music playing. Lucy thought 'Did I miss an anniversary?' which made no sense, given Lucy never, ever missed an important date.

"Tim, What's going on?"

"Welcome HOME, Baby. I wanted to make you a nice dinner and show my girl some romance"

"Ohhh. Thank You. I needed this. I am the luckiest girl to have such a romantic boyfriend. Careful though, Your reputation could be in jeopardy"

As they sat down to eat. Tim nervously started talking.

"Luc. I wanted to talk to you. I don't want to rush things or put any pressure on you. It's just...since we got together. You have spent most nights here BUT the nights you're not here...Well, I hate those nights. It doesn't feel like my home anymore. It feels like our home. It feels dark and empty when you are gone. I want my nights to consist of you, me and Kojo. Every night. Waking up to you is the greatest part of my day. There is an extra room for Tamara, whenever she wants. I love you so much. The three of us made this house home to me. I think Kojo would agree with me. Will you move in with me?"

Lucy had tears pooling in her eyes.

"Oh, Babe. I feel the same. The nights I'm away from you are the worst. I miss you when I'm in my lonely apartment. I would love to move in with you. Move into our home. Just you, I and Kojo. And Tamara too. Sounds perfect to me"

"We can move you in on our weekend off. Lucy, you make me the happiest I have ever been. I LOVE YOU, BABY"

"I LOVE YOU MORE"

"Sorry Luc, Not possible"

Chapter 10 ~ Down On Bended Knee

Tim pops the question.

It has been a year and a half. Tim and Lucy were full steam ahead. Their relationship had been blissful. It was pretty clear, no two people were meant for each other more than them. Lucy had become a full time detective which she absolutely loved. Lucy, loved working with Angela and Nyla. She was a great detective. Tim is now a Sargent. He oversees all the police officers. Tim always wanted the best for his girlfriend. If she truly wanted to stay on patrol, he would of found a way to make that work. Lucy didn't want to stay on patrol. She always wanted to be a detective. It was her calling, which pleased Tim. Lucy was doing something she truly loved. Also, being in a different department there was no issues with nepotism. Lucy moved in with Tim, 6 months ago. That next step transition was seemingly easy. Sure, they had arguments as every couple does but it was fixed as quick as it began.

Tim had the ring for a couple weeks now. He has been waiting for a perfect time. There was absolutely no doubt in his mind. Lucy is the love of his life and he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. Lucy has a complicated relationship with her family but Tim made sure to to talk to her dad and get his blessing. Lucy's family weren't very supportive of her being a police officer but started to accept her choices especially after she became a detective. They also saw how much Tim loved her and blessed their relationship after some time. Her father, after a long talk, gave Tim his blessing. Tim also had a talk with Tamara, he wanted her blessing as well given how much Tamara meant to Lucy and also Tim. Lucy's puppy had wormed into his life as well.

Tim made a lunch date with his best friend, Angela. He needed his best friends advice. Talking to her at the station was a risk as Lucy could walk in on their conversation at anytime. Burritos was their friendship love language. Tim walked up to the food trucks and saw his best friend sitting at a table.

"Hello there, Timothy. So your wanting to talk about something?"

Angela knew her friend so well and had a strong suspicion he was more than ready to take the BIG step with Lucy.

"OK, Lopez. I obviously can't get much past you. I can see that smirk you have smeared across your face that you already know what I wanted to talk to you about"

"I don't know what your talking about"

"OK. Games over"

Tim pulled out the ring to show Angela.

"Bradford. I'm so proud of you. This ring is beautiful. I'm so damn happy for you. I saw Lucy as your person years ago. I know you loved Isobel. Lucy is different. She is without a doubt, your true love. She has completely changed you. She pulled you out of the darkness and into the light. She is your forever"

"Thanks, Ang. I never thought I could feel this way ever again. I know I loved Isobel but the feelings Lucy gives me everyday is nothing that I ever felt before. I can't imagine loving anyone the way I love her. I wake up in the mornings and stare at her and think I am the luckiest man in the whole world. I want more than anything to spend the rest of my life with her"

"Bradford. Your such a romantic"

"Yeah. You can thank Lucy for that"

"So, What's the plan?"

"I'm going to propose on her birthday. We are having that dinner party. I want everyone we know and love there. Hopefully, She doesn't say no"

"Bradford. That's not even possible."

A WEEK LATER

It was Lucy's birthday party. Lucy came out of their bedroom in a new red dress matched with light makeup and red lipstick. She literally took Tim's breath away.

"Baby. What are you doing to me? You look absolutely gorgeous"

"Thank You, Babe. You look so handsome yourself"

"Happy Birthday, My Love"

Lucy lips crashed hard into Tim's.

"Chen. Don't start something you cannot finish"

"So later, Then?"

"Yes. Definitely later"

Their guests started to arrive. Drinks were flowing. Tim had dinner catered from Lucy's favorite restaurant and it was delicious.

As everyone gathered in the living room. Tim clinked his glass.

"Thank You, Everyone for coming to celebrate Lucy, Who as you know is the best rookie I ever trained"

Laughter echoed through the room.

"Lucy, Tonight we celebrate you. You have literally turned my world upside down. You took me out of a dark cloud I was hiding under and brought me back into the light. You showed me how to love again and be deserving to be loved back. You are the love of my life. When I look into your beautiful brown eyes. I feel something I have never felt before"

As tears pooled in Lucy's eyes. She sees her boyfriend drop down to one knee with a beautiful diamond ring, shining brightly.

"Tim, Wh-What are you doing?"

"Lucy, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I want to spend eternity showing you the love you deserve. WILL YOU MARRY ME?"

"YES! YES! Of course I will marry you"

As Tim stood up, he placed the ring on his now fiances left ring finger and gave her a soft, passionate kiss.

There wasn't a dry eye in the house. For the next while, the engaged couple received hugs. Lucy was still emotional. She had never felt so much joy as everyone was gushing over her new piece of jewelry.

As the night winded down, their guests left and it was just the three of them again. As they relaxed on the couch with Kojo at Lucy's feet.

"Tim, You have made me the happiest girl in the world. Now, laying here the three of us. We are a real family. Someday, bring a baby into our family. Tim, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. I cannot wait to become Mrs. Bradford"

"Lucy, You have completely shaped my world. Before I wasn't really living, just existing. You came into my life as a spunky rookie and changed me, rocked my world. You made me a better man. Thank You for saying YES. I can't wait to marry you, My beautiful girl"

Chapter 11 ~ Not A Option

Countdown to the big day. Only a week away. Lucy finds herself in a harrowing situation. Tim is determined to get to her.

The wedding was a week away. Everything was planned and ready. Tim was beaming, he could hardly contain himself. He just wanted so badly for Lucy to become a Bradford. Lucy was so busy. Between cases and working on wedding details. She was constantly on the go but she knew it was so worth it. Pretty soon, she was marrying the love of her life. She was getting her happily ever after and just couldn’t wait to be Tim’s wife. After everything they have been through. They had beat all the odds.

A case had come across Angela’s desk regarding suspicious circumstances in a run down warehouse. They had multiple cases so she asked Lucy to go and do a initial investigation. There has been an explosion and a body had been found outside of the warehouse. Other than that, emergency responders could not piece together what had taken place. Lucy was leaving the station. She always stops by Tim’s office as she leaves or vice versa if either of them is there. It had become a tradition. They kept things professional at work but found ways to have little, subtle moments together. As she made her way into his office. She was smiling from ear to ear.

“Sargent Bradford”

“Detective Chen. Or are you going by Detective Bradford yet?”

“Not yet. You have to say I DO first”

“Ohhh. That’s not going to be a problem”

“OK. Babe. I’m off to investigate at this warehouse. I will either see you here or at home later”

“Sounds good. I love you Detective Chen and…STAY SAFE”

“Always do. I love you more”

As Lucy pulled up to the warehouse. She walked in, had put gloves on just in case she came across any evidence. Walking and searching through chards of glass and debris. This was going to be daunting, trying to find any clues. As she was searching. A square, small shaped box caught her attention. It had wires attached to the back. Lucy thought it could be the reason for the explosion. As she picked it up, instantly regretting picking it up.

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

This wasn’t the cause of the explosion. This was a device that hadn’t detonated. Now, she was holding it. Knowing if she dropped it, the device would explode. She got on her radio while holding the bomb.

“Lopez. Harper. I’m in a situation here. I need a bomb squad rolled to my location. I’m currently holding a device that hasn’t detonated. Please hurry”

As Lucy was pleading for help. Tim happened to be having lunch with Angela. He literally felt like throwing up.

“WHAT THE HELL! She’s holding a damn bomb. This can’t be happening”

Harper had called in for the bomb squad to get to Lucy’s location.

“OK. Tim. She’s gonna be OK”

“She’s holding a goddamn bomb. You can’t promise that. I CAN’T LOSE HER”

“Let’s go, Ang. I need to be with her”

As Angela and Tim arrived at the warehouse. Tim leaped out of the car. Nyla stopped him.

“So, the bomb squad is working at disabling the bomb. My gosh. Your soon to be wife is one smart cookie. It would have detonated if she dropped it. It’s a complicated bomb. It’s going to take a bit to disable it. Lucy is scared but she’s holding it together”

“I’m going in. I need to be with her”

No one was going to stop him. They understood. If it was either of them. They would want Wesley or James to be there with them.

Tim walked in. He first noticed two bomb squad officers diligently surrounding Lucy. As they broke away for a second. He saw her. His beautiful fiancé. His whole world. Love of his life. The woman who is going to be his wife in 7 damn days. Lucy, usually she had a beaming smile, looked bright and cheerful. This Lucy, looked defeated, broken and scared. This shattered Tim’s heart into a million pieces. Lucy was sweating and trying desperately not to shake.

“Hey. Baby” Tim softly said

“Ti-Ti-Tim…What are you doing here?”

“Are you kidding, Luc? There is NO WHERE ELSE I WOULD EVER BE”

“Tim, I’m scared”

“I know you are, my love. But listen to me. We are leaving this warehouse together”

Tim gently cupped his hands around Lucy’s.

“Tim, What are you doing?”

“Baby. If your holding a bomb, then I’m holding a bomb too”

“Babe. I don’t want both of us in danger”

“We are a team. You and I. We are doing this together”

“I have never been so terrified. I don’t want to die”

“Baby, Listen to me. Your not going to die. OK. Losing you. Losing us IS NOT A OPTION”

“I just want to be your WIFE. Get my happily ever after”

“Luc, You are going to get that. I promise. We are going to be so happy. You and I. An old married couple with Kojo and a couple of babies” winking at his soon to be wife.

The bomb officer, Mike had now figured out the mechanics of the wires.

“Tim, I need you to lift your hand and Lucy at the count if three, your going to let go”

“Ar-Are you sure?”

“I promise it’s OK. Just let go”

Lucy closed her eyes as she dropped the bomb. Almost preparing for the worst. As she let go. Nothing. She was safe. Opened her eyes. Sobbing, tears streaming down her cheeks. As she looked up. She saw Tim sobbing too. Tim grabbed her jacket, hard. He brought her in tightly, wrapped his arms around every inch of her body. Lucy was holding onto him just as tightly.

Tim cupped her face. Circling his thumbs over her cheeks.

“Baby. Are you OK?”

“I think so. I’m just glad to be breathing and in your arms. Just like I was 5 years ago, when you saved my life. Why was I such a idiot? Not telling you how I felt then”

Tim laughing

“Oh, Luc. You’re not the only one who regrets not expressing their feelings. But I believe we were always going to get to where we are now”

“Can we go home? I wanna go home. Give Kojo kisses and snuggle with my almost husband. That’s what’s going to make me feel better”

“You bet, Baby. Let’s go home”

Chapter 12 ~ I Do

Chenford WEDDING DAY!!!

The big day had finally arrived. Tim and Lucy had decided on a small, intimate wedding. Angela, Tim's best friend was going to be Tim's 'best woman'. Tamara was going to be Lucy's maid of honor. They had asked Grey who was ordained to officiate their wedding. Grey meant so much to both of them and had been one of their biggest cheerleaders. He also made sure, them being a couple did not hurt their careers in any way. After so many years, being scared of HR issues. Grey was not going to let some protocol ruin their relationship when they had finally realized their love for each other was worth the risk. Grey was honored to marry them.

They had picked a small venue on the beach. It was perfect for them. Even though Tim never really liked the beach. He had started to warm up to the sand and water...Why? Because of Lucy, of course.

Friday at roll call. Tim and Grey were addressing the group. Grey was speaking.

"Stay safe. Let's het through today. So, tomorrow we can celebrate two of our favorite people who are FIANLLY saying, I DO"

After shift, Tim and Lucy saw each other for the last time before he would see her walk down the aisle. Lucy wanted to keep certain traditions. Tim was going to spend the night at Angela's and Tamara was staying with Lucy. As Tim was getting his things together. Lucy was chilling with Kojo on the couch.

"OK. Chen. Soon to be Bradford. I'm ready to go"

As he walked over to her. Cupping her face in his hands.

"I will see you tomorrow, my beautiful girl. I cannot wait to see you looking all gorgeous in your dress, walk towards me and FINALLY become my wife. I LOVE YOU, BABY"

"I am so excited to see how sexy you are gonna look in your tux. You're becoming my husband. My dream come true. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH"

Giving Lucy a big kiss. Reaching down to give Kojo some love.

"OK. My boy. Make sure Mom and T behave tonight"

"Woof! Woof!"

"Tim, you have brainwashed our dog"

"Nah. He just knows what a trouble maker his Mom is"

"OK. Bye. Love You"

"See you tomorrow, Baby"

Tamara came over. The girls decided to just have a relaxing girls night. Watched some rom-coms. They were going to bed early. It was going to be a big day tomorrow.

Lucy was almost asleep when her FaceTime ringtone started ringing. She knew it could only be one person. As she answered.

"Tim. Babe. Are you OK? It's 10:30. Don't you know this bride needs her beauty sleep?"

"First of all. This bride is already the most beautiful girl in the world, sleep or no sleep. Second, I want the last thing I see before I fall asleep is your gorgeous face. You, have always been the last vision I see before I close my eyes.

"Well played, Bradford"

"Sweet dreams. My beautiful girl. I love you"

"Goodnight, handsome. I love you"

Morning had arrived. Lucy turned over to see the sun shining brightly through the window pane.

'Today. I'm getting married"

Lucy saw a text.

"Morning, beautiful. In just a few short hours, you're going to make me the happiest man on the planet. I love you"

"You're going to make me the happiest woman on the planet. I love you. See you soon"

Tamara, Nyla, Bailey and Luna all gathered together to help Lucy get ready. Angela stayed with the groom as she was his 'best woman'.

Guests arrived at the wedding location.

In the back, behind the altar

"Alright. Bradford. Are you ready?"

"SOOO, ready. I'm marrying the love of my life. I'm so ready for Lucy to become my wife"

"Hell yeah, you are"

As Tim and Angela stood to the side of Grey. The ceremony was about to start.

Tamara was walking down the aisle in a pretty, lilac dress with a beautiful matching bouquet. Tim just smiled. Thinking of when Lucy's puppy came into her life and how she became Tim's puppy too.

The music began. Grey asked everyone to stand to welcome the bride.

There she stood. Arms locked with her father. In a breathtaking, white gown.

Angela looked over at her best friend. Tears were pooling in his eyes. He was desperately trying not to outright cry. The love and admiration he had looking at his bride as she made her way to the front was breathtaking.

As Lucy walked towards Tim. Mr. Chen placed a kiss on her cheek and placed her hands into Tim's hands.

"Take care of her"

"I promise Sir, forever"

Before Grey began. Tim leaned forward.

"You look absolutely BEAUTIFUL"

As Grey began. Reminiscing about Tim and Lucy's journey.

"Tim and Lucy have written their own vows. Tim the floor is yours"

As Tim placed a diamond, studded silver wedding band over Lucy's finger.

"Lucy Chen. When you walked into my life as a stubborn, spunky rookie. I knew I was going to be challenged to train you to become a fine police officer. Little did I know, How you were going to rock my world to the core. I was a shell of a man when you came on the scene. You brought me out of the darkness and showed me a light at the end of the tunnel. You showed me how to love again and gave me the ability to be loved. Which seemed like an impossibility. Lucy, I have never known a love like this. You are the love of my life. My soulmate. My other half. I love you more than anything or anyone in the world. I'm so in love with you. I promise you, to spend the rest of my life showing you the love that you deserve. I love you, my beautiful girl"

Lucy had tears spilling from the corner of her eyes.

It was Lucy's turn to place a platinum, silver wedding band on Tim's finger.

"It's going to be hard to follow that up. Tim Bradford. As your 'boot' I didn't know how I was going to endure your 'Tim Tests'. I knew deep down you were going to shape me to become one of LAPD'S finest. I was bound and determined to be the best rookie you ever trained. Just for the record, you say I'm in the top three but I know I'm number one. Along the way, you became the most important person in my life. I truly never knew what being in love felt like, until you came along. You saved me in so many ways. You're my forever hero. You too, are the love of my life. I never thought I could love someone the way I love you. I promise to show you love everyday. I will always be by your side through life. I love you, my handsome man"

Sniffles could be heard through the ceremony.

"Tim, do you take Lucy to be your wife? To love and cherish her from this day forward, as long as you shall live?"

"I DO"

"Lucy, do you take Tim to be your husband? To love and cherish him from this day forward, as long as you both shall live?"

"Heck. Yes. I DO"

Laughter erupted.

"I know pronounce you husband and wife. Tim, you may kiss your bride"

As Tim's lips crashed into Lucy's. Giving her the most passionate, loving kiss he had ever given her. he leaned his forehead against hers.

As everyone was standing and cheering.

"I Love You, Mrs. Bradford"

"I Love You More, Mr. Bradford"

The Bradford's made their way down the aisle. Hand in hand. Smiling towards everyone they loved.

"We did it, Baby" Tim whispered

"We sure did, Bradford. The happiest day of my life"

"It was PERFECT. You are PERFECT"

Chapter 13 ~ Babymoon

Tim And Lucy have a honeymoon getaway to the mountains. Lucy has news to share with her husband.

Lucy went from Lucy Chen to Lucy Bradford. Their wedding was perfect. Newlywed life was blissful. Being married suited both Tim and Lucy. After the wedding they went straight back into work mode. Tim being a Sergeant and Lucy a detective. You could say they are Wiltshire’s power couple. They had gone back and forth about to where to go for their honeymoon. Neither was wanting to travel far. They live in LA so going to a warm destination location wasn’t that important to them. Both Tim and Lucy loved to go on hikes in the mountains with Kojo. So, they decided renting a air b n b in the mountains would be perfect. They could also take Kojo with them. They had reserved a cabin for five days. It was going to be magical.

It was Tim and Lucy’s last day before they were going to be on vacation for their getaway to the mountains. Neither saw much of each other that day. Tim was very busy dealing with the mountain of paperwork he needed to finish and Lucy was out in the field finishing up a case. Angela spotted her best friend at his desk with his face buried in papers.

“Timothy. Are you ready for your getaway with your wife? Wife…I still can’t believe that”

Since the wedding. Everytime Angela sees Tim, she finds herself staring down at Tim’s left hand and admiring the silver ring that now occupies that finger. After Isobel, she never thought he would have that again. Sure, he loved Isobel but she was convinced Tim had never known a love like Lucy.

“I sure am Lopez. I am so ready to spend 6 days away. Secluded in the mountains with my WIFE, oh and Kojo”

“Marriage looks pretty good on you, Bradford”

“It feels pretty damn amazing. Lucy is by far the BEST thing that has ever happened to me. I am so lucky I get to call her my wife”

Lucy had come back to the station. The case was closed. She was debriefing with Nyla.

“Detective Bradford. You are done here. Now, get out of here and go enjoy some quality time with your new husband”

“Yes ma’am”

Lucy passed by her husband’s office before she left the station. They were still always very professional at work but still had soft moments with each other.

“Hi there, handsome”

“Well, hello there my beautiful wife”

“I just wanted to check in with you before I left. I have some errands to run and then home to finish packing. I know you’re just gonna throw some things in a bag but your wife doesn’t roll that way. So, I will see you at home later?”

“You bet, beautiful. Let’s be real Luc. I’m sure you will have my bag packed by the time I get home”

“You know me so well. Love you”

“Love you too. I will see you soon”

The Bradford’s which included Kojo left in Tim’s truck for their destination first thing in the morning. They had planned to get groceries as they got near the cabin. At the grocery store they had picked up supplies to make some nice meals and Tim also grabbed some beer and some wine for his wife. When he had asked Lucy what kind she wanted. He noticed she was a little reserved. She had ‘forgotten’ something and walked in the opposite direction. Tim ended up grabbing a bottle he thought she would enjoy.

They got to the cabin. It was a beautiful log cabin. Mountains in the near distance. A flowing river directly behind the house. It was quiet and purely magical.

As Tim was putting groceries away. Lucy and Kojo were relaxing on the couch. Tim had opened a beer for himself.

“Baby. Do you want a glass of wine?”

“I’m OK right now”

Lucy scooted up and grabbed her purse, she made her way into the kitchen. She had a very serious look come across her face. Tim, knowing his wife so well, could see something was heavily weighing on her mind.

“Luc. What’s going on? You have been acting off the whole way up here and then walking away from me in the grocery store. You have been so excited for our honeymoon up until today it seems. Are you OK? Are we OK?”

Lucy had tears forming in her eyes.

“Baby. What’s wrong? Please talk to me”

“Tim, I know we talked about what we wanted for our future before we got married. Sometimes plans change though”

“Luc. Your scaring me, what are you talking about?”

Lucy took a deep breath. Reached her hand into the side of her purse and placed a white stick on the counter. Tim looked down and saw a positive symbol on the small screen.

“Baby. Yo-Your pregnant?”

“I am. I have been feeling nauseous and a little off for a few days so I thought I would just pick up a test and make sure. I know this wasn’t in the plan. We just got married. We wanted time to be a married couple for a while. We wanted…”

“Luc. Stop. This is amazing. I would love nothing more than for us to bring a mini you or a mini me into this world. I love you so much. Maybe it wasn’t our plan right away but that doesn’t matter. I can’t think of anything I have wanted more than making you my wife and us starting a family”

“Oh, Tim. I was nervous about how you might react but as usual you knew exactly what to say to make me feel better. I’m so happy too. I am so ready for this. Starting a family with you is everything I have ever wanted”

They had a romantic dinner together and then moved to the couch. As Lucy laid her head over Tim’s chest. Tim had one hand around her shoulder, running his fingers through her brown, wavy curls and his other hand was rubbing her belly.

“Luc, we are having a baby”

‘Yes we are, Tim. Best honeymoon ever, or should I say babymoon”

Chapter 14 ~ Hormones

A hard case hits a pregnant Lucy hard. Tim is her rock as usual.

It had been a whirlwind few months for The Bradford’s. As they arrived home from their honeymoon getaway from the mountain cabin. It was all about finding an OB GYN, after Lucy’s pregnancy had been confirmed with bloodwork. At their first ultrasound, Tim’s emotions came flooding out as they heard their baby’s heartbeat for the first time. Tim had dreamed for so long of becoming a father. After Isobel, he had convinced himself it was just not in the cards for him. That was until Lucy changed everything for him. Now, she had not only pulled him out of the darkness but had made him the happiest man in the world. Going from his boot, to his friend, to his girlfriend and now his wife. Lucy was now gifting him a baby, their baby. Tim was on cloud nine and eternally grateful for his life now.

Lucy was also elated with their life. She had never felt complete in any of her relationships, never able to fully commit to anyone. As much as Lucy tried, she was never able to truly fall in love with anyone. Until, Tim. She had those butterfly feelings from the beginning. They never went away. Even when the idea of them being together felt impossible. It took a really hard time. A long time pining for one another, dating other people but in the end their feelings for each other would eventually not be denied anymore. Lucy had thought she could not ever feel happier than when she became Mrs. Bradford. It was matched at the sound of their baby’s heartbeat.

Now Lucy, 16 weeks pregnant. They had gone back and forth on whether they wanted to find out the gender or have it a surprise. After many talks, even small arguments. They finally decided to find out. At their ultrasound, the tech gave them the news. Tim and Lucy were having a baby GIRL. They were both so excited. Lucy immediately starting buying baby girl outfits. Tim tried to reign it in but in the end of the day seeing Lucy happy and smiling gave him literal goosebumps. Happy wife, happy life. As far as he was concerned, she could buy whatever she wanted for their baby.

Lucy was now 24 weeks pregnant and her hormones were in full force. She found herself getting emotional over virtual everything. It was a very busy day for Tim at the station. There was many calls he had to attend to as a Sergeant. He finally returned back to the station and went to check in with his wife. As he approached Angela and Nyla, who were sitting at their desks, there was no Lucy. As he saw Angela had a concerned look when he walked up.

“Hi Ang. Where’s my wife”

“Tim, we had a hard ending to a case. We found and apprehended the suspect but we were too late and found his little girls body. Lucy didn’t want to leave the little girl. I sent her home to regroup. I wanted her to rest. I’m sorry, Tim”

“That’s OK, Ang. I am going to head home and see my girls”

“Good idea”

Tim arrived at their house. He walked in and found his wife curled up on the couch with her knees resting against her chin. Sobbing. She had Kojo right beside her who as always was trying to comfort her.

“Hi Baby. I’m so sorry for what happened today”

“Tim, she just a innocent little girl. Like our little girl will be in a couple of years. I have seen these cases before in the job we have and it’s always hard. I’m so emotional. I couldn’t even gather myself to stay at work. I am such a mess”

“Luc. First. Our baby girl is always going to be unconditionally loved and protected for her entire life. Second, of course you are emotional. This case would affect anyone. Throw in, you being pregnant. Just give yourself a break. OK”

Tim crawled onto the couch beside his wife and held her. Having one hand on her growing belly.

“Luc. Listen to me. You can let out all the emotions you need to. I will always hold and comfort you. Smother you with kisses. You just concentrate on keeping a good home for our little princess”

“God. I love you. Tim Bradford”

“I love you more. Lucy Bradford”

Chapter 15 ~ Baby Bradford

Tim and Lucy welcome their baby GIRL.

Lucy was 37 weeks pregnant. It was her last day at Wilshire before she would go on mat leave. Lucy was very tired. She was feeling gigantic. Angela and Nyla arranged a little surprise celebration for Lucy and Tim. Lucy was overwhelmed with emotion. Lucy and Tim were always professional inside the walls of the station, even as a married couple. However, on this day. Tim didn’t even think about breaking any rules. Wrapping his arms around his wife giving her soft, little kisses. Tim was going to be having some paternity leave in a week, so he could be home with Lucy and his baby girl.

Tim actually hated leaving their home in the following days to go to work. He wanted to stay with his wife. Lucy reassured him to go to work and she would be ok at home. Tim was checking in either via text or phone calls every 30 minutes. No matter what he was doing, he was checking in like clockwork.

For weeks prior, they had gotten everything needed for their baby girl. They had settled on a simple nursery. A star and moon theme. Mint green and white. They loved this theme as they thought for their baby girl, as she grows up to reach for the stars. Crib, changing table, car seat/stroller combo and rocking chair. The mountains of clothes Lucy had purchased were hanging in the nursery’s closet. Baby girl Bradford was going to be a fashionista. Diapers, bottles, and many necessities were given during Lucy’s baby shower. Aunt Angela and Aunt Nyla purchased a bassinet for them to have, as their baby will spend the first little while with her mommy and daddy. They were ready for their baby’s arrival.

A few night later, Tim and Lucy were sound asleep in bed when Lucy was jolted awake.

“TIM! TIM! My water just broke. WAKE UP!”

“I’M AWAKE! I’M AWAKE! I will grab your hospital bag”

Tim stood still for a moment. Placed his hand over his wife’s round belly.

“Tim, what are you doing? Let’s go”

“Right. Let’s go and meet our little princess”

Tim had tears flowing down his cheeks. Smiling from side to side. He was finally getting the family he had always wanted. How did he get so lucky? After all the darkness and hardships. Tim was married to the absolute love of his life and was about to become a dad to their baby girl. He was about to have two girls, his whole world.

Later at the hospital. Lucy was rushed to labour and delivery. Doctor did an initial exam and had her hooked to a fetal monitor. Lucy was fully dilated and ready to deliver their baby girl. 3 hours of hard labour and she was here.

“It’s A GIRL. Ten fingers, ten toes and a full head of hair”

Then came the most wonderful sound Tim and Lucy had ever heard. Their baby girl started uncontrollably crying. A sound every parent wants to hear immediately after birth. Nurses took her over to the weigh scale, cleaned her up and do initial tests. Baby Bradford was a perfectly, healthy baby girl. As she was swaddled in a hospital blanket and brought over to mom and dad. She was given to Lucy where she held her baby girl for the first time. Tim, situated beside Lucy on her bed, felt like he had died and gone to heaven.

“Tim, she’s PERFECT. Our daughter is PERFECT”

“Luc, she’s GORGEOUS. I always knew she was going to her moms mini me. Luc, you were remarkable and amazing. I am so proud of you. We are a family. Just me and my girls. And of course Kojo. You and our princess are my WHOLE WORLD. Don’t you ever forget that”

“Daddy, why don’t you take our little angel to the waiting room so she can meet her aunts, uncles and Grandpa Grey. Announce her name, which is perfect and show her off. This kind of cuteness should be shared with everyone”

“I’m on it. Let’s go meet your family, baby girl”

Everyone was impatiently waiting. Tim emerged down the hall cradling their new bundle of joy.

I thought it was time for our new princess to meet her family. I want to formally introduce Wilshire’s newest boot”

“SOPHIA ANGELA BRADFORD”

“7LBS 13OZ 21 INCHES”

“Lucy was a complete champion. She is literally my hero. She is healthy and resting”

Angela was sobbing as she approached her best friend with his new baby girl.

“You named her after me? Dammit. Bradford. You are not supposed to make me cry. That’s my job”

“Well we thought her namesake should come from her godmother. Angela, you have been a rock to me through all these years. You were also the one who set me straight to tell the love of my life I was in love with her. I have my perfect life and a lot of that is thanks to you”

Tim handed Sophia to her godmother.

“Oh Timothy. She is absolutely beautiful. I think she gets that from Lucy”

“Lopez. You are right about that”

All of Sophia’s family had a chance to hold and admire her. As she was handed back to Tim.

“Thank you everyone for being here. Lucy and I are forever grateful for all of you. Sophia is so lucky to have so many people that will love, adore and teach her. You will all play such an important role in her life.

“Ok. Baby girl. Let’s go see Mommy. I bet she’s missing you”

Moments later. Sophia was in her mommy’s arms and Tim laying beside them with one arm around his wife and the other gripping his baby girls hand with his one finger.

“Life is PERFECT. My girls. My world. I LOVE YOU BOTH more than anything in this universe”

“And I love you, Tim. Our family. Our baby girl more than anything in this universe. Thank you for saving me time and time again. Thank you for making me whole again”

“Luc, your stealing my lines again”

Tim gave a kiss to his wife’s forehead, followed with a kiss to his daughters. They were a FAMILY. The family, both Tim and Lucy had always dreamed of. Their dream had FINALLY come true.

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