#We can't run away together either as they are in the same boat I am | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

schrijverr · 4 months ago

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Tomorrow Will Be Different 16

Chapter 16 out of 26

Instead of managing to meet up later, Oliver has to keep running with Akio. The only way to keep them safe is to go public with Oliver being alive, leaving him back home in charge of Akio, while Tatsu and Maseo are still in the wind

In this chapter, the news about the boat breaks, signaling that Shrieve has been arrest. However, it can't be without its complications.

On AO3.

Ships: none

Warnings: vague mentions of human experimentation (Ivo)

~~~

Chapter 16: No Comment on the Survivors

Oliver has been enjoying lunch with Laurel, despite some of the rougher moments. He is glad he reached out to her to try and mend their friendship. She has never been afraid to push him and her firm worry and questioning keeps him grounded in reality.

However, when he spots Akio in the corner of his eye, his attention is immediately drawn away. He gets up and hurries over, kneeling down in front of him, he puts his fingers on Akio’s chin, so he can maneuver his head around to check him over for injuries.

“What are you doing here?” he asks, worried. “Did something happen?”

Akio easily bats his hands away, saying: “I am fine. Nothing happened.”

Oliver looks over to Diggle for confirmation, who luckily gives him more information. “You stopped replying to his texts after telling him you were going here for lunch. He says he got bored and wanted to see you, but I think he got worried.”

“I did not get worried,” Akio argues, glaring at Diggle for giving him away.

At the reveal, Oliver softens slightly. However, he is still aware of Laurel’s words and her presence right behind him. He doesn’t want to validate her earlier words. “Akio, I was having lunch with a friend, Laurel,” he gestures to her. “If you were bored you could have gone to Thea, if Diggle didn’t want to play with you.”

“It is not the same,” Akio pouts, then changes the subject in an obvious ploy to get out of the conversation. “Laurel? Is she the friend that is complicated?”

“Complicated?” Laurel repeats, falling into his trap.

Oliver isn’t sure he wants to have this conversation, but he didn’t want to have the other one either. He can’t very well berate Akio when seeing him released a tension in his muscles. He wasn’t lying when he said they’re working on it, they’re successful most of the time, just not all of the time.

Before he can consider jumping in, Akio has already answered: “Yes, it’s because you were good friends, but then he did something stupid and now you guys weren’t friends anymore and you never talked about it. But I guess he took my advice, since you’re friends again now.”

Laurel is amused by Akio’s account of their history and delights in further questioning her agreeable witness. “And what was your advice?”

“That when you do something stupid you say sorry and make up for it and then you both agree to forget about it.”

“Thank you for that, Akio,” Oliver interrupts, before it can get further out of hand. He ignores how Diggle is almost certainly laughing at him, Laurel too probably.

“Told you, you could try,” Akio tells him.

“Yeah, buddy, you were right,” Oliver agrees. “But Laurel has to get back to her work now. So why don’t you say goodbye and then I’ll go pay and we can get out of here and do something fun together.”

“Can we go to the theme park again?” Akio asks, eyes sparkling.

“I think Speedy will get mad if we go without her again, but we can go to the normal park or the library,” Oliver offers, feeling bad about not agreeing, but knowing that by the time they get there, the theme park will be practically closed and that’ll be more disappointing.

“Alright,” Akio pouts.

“You know what, I’ll take you to an arcade. How does that sound?” Oliver says, because Akio has him wrapped around his little fingers.

“What is an arcade?”

“All those video games and you never heard of an arcade?” Oliver retorts.

“It has games?” Akio asks, sounding thrilled at the thought.

“It sure has. Now say bye to Laurel.”

“Bye, Laurel, it was nice to meet you,” Akio says politely, adding a little bow.

“Goodbye, Akio, it was nice to meet you too,” Laurel replies, looking absolutely charmed. Oliver gets it, Akio is a surprisingly charming kid for how mean he can be sometimes.

With that Laurel leaves again for her job, promising to keep in contact. Then Oliver pays and along with Diggle, they set out the arcade, where Akio goes wild for a few hours. He beats Oliver at everything except the shooter games.

The rest of the week proceeds fairly normal.

Thea does sneak out Akio one time to take him to the theme park by enlisting Tommy’s help, who tells Oliver about it behind both their backs. Tommy also makes sure Diggle is with them. Oliver is very grateful to him for that. Out of everyone, he has opened up the most about his worries to Tommy, who doesn’t really understand, but respects and helps. Tommy is a good friend like that.

As the next two weeks pass, Akio starts working seriously on his classes again. In their letters his parents called it vacation and Oliver has gone along with it too, because that was the easiest. Akio never fully bought it, but embraced it.

However, with his parents being found coming closer, he wants to catch up on classes to impress them. Or at least show them that he’s been behaving himself.

It’s heartbreaking yet adorable.

After his classes with Shado and the year in Hong Kong, Oliver can help somewhat when it comes to Mandarin, but Akio is already pretty good at that. It’s the more STEM courses that they collectively fail at.

When they’re sitting at the table, trying to do math together, Oliver tells himself to marry someone who is good at this stuff, because he sucks and will never be able to help any child he’ll have in the future.

He feels like he should be good at math and physics, he always uses it when shooting his bow and when fighting. However, that is instinctual and his teaching had been more spiritual, not this science stuff.

But the two of them get through it with a lot of help from google and a few tears on both their parts.

Then on Thursday morning the news breaks: The boat that held Oliver Queen has been located, most of the crew dead after a mistake with a bio weapon they were testing on their prisoners, no comment on the survivors as of yet.

Oliver is actually sleeping when the news hits. Nightmares had been plaguing so he’d been up till 5:00, which means he rolls out of bed at 8:30, surprised he slept as much as he did after that.

He checks up on Akio, who is still asleep, before making his way downstairs for breakfast. His mom and sister are already sitting there and Oliver pauses at the morose atmosphere hanging over them. Cautious and confused, he greets: “Good morning,” trying to gauge what’s happening.

“God, Ollie,” Thea cries, getting up from her seat and flying into his arms.

Oliver catches her with ease, holding her close to him and letting her bury her head in his neck as she sniffles. He turns his frown to his mom, asking: “What’s going on?”

Moira looks close to how she sounded over the phone, though she is obviously trying to project strength. “The ship that- that held you. It has been found.”

Fuck, Amanda could have given him a heads up about that. Though, he probably isn’t a priority within all the mess. Still, Lyla could’ve called Dig.

“Oh,” is all he manages, mentally trying to shift gears as quickly as he can for this performance.

“The news said they were testing stuff on the people they were holding,” Thea tells him tearfully, before whispering: “Were you- were you experimented on?”

Oliver tries to find a convincing act, calling on his experience with Ivo to give them something authentic. It’s only when he thinks about it, that he realizes it never was a lie. With everything that has happened to him, he forgot he actually was a captive on a ship that experimented on humans for a bit there.

The realization gives him a pause. He’d borrowed parts of his story for the press from Sara, but he never fully felt a part of them. She’d been on the Amazo, he’d been on Lian Yu, the fact that they collided never fully registered in that sense.

“Ollie?” Thea asks softly, likely scared she’d broken him.

“I’m okay,” he manages an unconvincing smile. “I- I guess they- uhm, they did. I’ve tried to forget… Repress, maybe.”

He clears his throat, not even having to fake pushing down the tears. Being reminded of everything that happened on the Amazo is enough to make him nearly down in the grief. However, he pushes through, not feeling like breaking down. “Did the news say anything about Tatsu and Maseo?”

When he asks, Oliver already knows the answer, so he feels a little guilty as he watches both faces fall.

It is Moira, who bites the bullet and says: “They say most of the crew is dead after an accident involving a bio weapon. There has been no comment about the survivors.”

“Of course,” Oliver says, not having to pretend to be disappointed. He knew the news wasn’t going to say anything, but he still hoped they would have, because if they had that means Tatsu and Maseo have already been located.

Before Moira or Thea can try to comfort him or try to make it better, they’re interrupted by Akio entering the room. Both his mom and sister stiffen. Oliver can’t blame him, if he didn’t know that the two Yamashiros had a high chance of being alive, he also wouldn’t want to have this conversation.

“Sleep well, buddy?” he asks, filling the sudden hush that had fallen over the room with Akio’s arrival.

“Yes…” Akio replies cautiously, having paused upon entering, probably picking up on the weird vibes. “Why are you looking weird?”

“They found the boat, Akio. It was on the news this morning,” Oliver answers, making sure his tone sounds on the right side of breaking potentially damning news for his mom and sister, while also not too much to make Akio worry.

Akio lights up at the news, which is understandable, demanding: “Did they find Otōsan and Okāsan?”

Moira and Thea are both looking at him, not wanting to be the one to have to tell Akio about the accident. Oliver is glad for their reluctance now, because he needs to have this conversation properly. Him and Akio discussed the act after Oliver briefed him on the story, and talked about how they would communicate should others be listening in.

Oliver makes his way over to him, squatting down in front of him as he has done many times before. He ensures Akio is looking in his eyes, putting as much reassurance in them as he can. “I heard there has been an accident on board. Some of the people died, but there are survivors, Akio.”

“Did Otōsan and Okāsan survive?” Akio asks, voice small.

Oliver isn’t sure how much of an act this is, but it doesn’t matter either way. He assures him: “I am going to make all the calls I need and we’ll know what happened to your parents soon, okay? We’re going to get them back here, if not today, then tomorrow. Remember, tomorrow will be different.”

“Tomorrow will be different,” Akio repeats, a small tentative smile tugging at his lips.

“Yeah, that’s it,” Oliver agrees, smiling back. “Now let’s get some breakfast so we have the energy to figure out our next steps.”

Akio matches the enthusiasm Oliver injected into his voice and eagerly makes his way over to the table so they can get breakfast over with and onto bringing his parents home.

Moira and Thea look on, both still caught in their own upset after having learned about what Oliver supposedly went through for a year. Though, Oliver does recognize that look of judgment in his mother’s face that is similar to when they first arrived here. She probably thinks he’s giving Akio too much hope.

Oliver doesn’t feel like getting into it with her or risking giving anything away by convincing her he isn’t needlessly setting Akio up for heartbreak.

There are still insecurities in his own mind of course. Tatsu and Maseo could have been made and silently killed the past month, Shrieve can have them stowed somewhere to use as leverage now that he’s been caught, or they can be caught up in something else after an attempt to escape, or not hear about the news at all and not come out of hiding.

However, Oliver sees no use in focusing on those what ifs. He knows Tatsu and he knows Maseo, and he knows what they will do for Akio, what they will push through, what they will survive for him. He needs to believe they’ll be located soon.

So, he stuffs his face with breakfast quite quickly, much like Akio is, mentally planning the next steps.

Diggle will surely come in after the news has hit, bringing the satellite phone so Oliver can call Amanda and demand an update. Maybe he’ll have heard from Lyla, before getting here. So, then they will have more information. Once they have that, they can plan more.

He also quickly checks the news on his phone, trying to see what has been released and what the media is focusing on.

His own story has been re-plastered on every front page and the photos there are of Akio are back in circulation. One thing he knows for certain, is that he’ll keep Akio inside, he doesn’t need to deal with the interest, especially now that the media is going crazy with the new revelations about the part Oliver hadn’t spoken about before.

Even with how his return was publicized, he still isn’t used to being in the spotlight again. Now, he can’t imagine why he ever liked being the media darling of Starling City and he hopes the stories dies down again soon. Maybe a big company can have a financial scandal or something, ease some of the pressure.

He’s snapped out of his thoughts by the landline ringing. He doesn’t expect any of his contacts to call him through there, however, he doesn’t want to risk any information slipping by him or having to hear it second hand from his mom, so he jumps up.

Picking up the phone, he makes sure to take a deep breath so his voice is level before he says: “Oliver Queen, speaking.”

“Mr. Queen,” Lyla’s voice comes over the speaker, making him frown because he told her to call him Oliver. “I am agent Smith and I’m part of a task force that has been working on locating your captors. I’m sure you’ve heard the news about the boat you were held on being found.”

“I’ve heard about that, yes,” Oliver plays along, not sure where this is coming from but not wanting to blow her cover. “Is there something you need from me or is this to inform me, agent Smith?”

“There are a few things we need clarification on,” Lyla says pleasantly, but Oliver can hear a thrum of something in her voice. “To make it easy for you, the SCPD has let us use a room. We request you come down to the local police precinct to answer a few questions.”

Oliver’s mind is spinning with possible reasons for this sudden addition to their story, but all the questions he has, he can’t ask. So, he just answers: “Of course. I’ll make my way over as soon as I can.”

“Thank you for your cooperation, Mr. Queen,” Lyla tells him. “I’ll see you soon.”

“Yes, see you soon,” Oliver replies, hanging up in a daze.

Still standing next to the phone is how Diggle finds him seconds later. When he spots Oliver, he winces apologetically. “I’m sorry, Oliver. I tried to get here before she called.”

Diggle knows what’s going on, Oliver’s brain immediately registers that and he snaps into focus, asking: “What’s happening?”

“It’s turned into more of a thing than expected, Waller’s being monitored. I don’t have the details, but this was the only way to get into contact with you,” Diggle says. “Just go along with it.”

“Alright,” Oliver nods sharply. That he can do. “Be right back,” he tells Diggle.

Quickly popping his head back into the dining room, he says: “They need me to come to the police precinct to ask me a few questions. Can you two look after Akio? I would leave Dig here, but I suspect it’ll be a circus out there.”

“Why do they need to question you?” Moira frowns, suspicious. “Should I call our lawyer?”

“Nothing serious, just clarifying a few details,” Oliver assures her. “Please, don’t make a statement to the press and keep Akio away from those vultures.” When Moira promises she will, he turns to Akio. “Behave, stay out of sight and I’ll tell you all I know when I get back.”

“Okay,” Akio agrees immediately, not even protesting about wanting to come. It’s similar to when they were hiding out in Hong Kong. Oliver cherishes his trust and vows to get him home as soon as he can.

With that, he leaves the house, Diggle behind him.

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rogue-durin-16 · 4 years ago

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THINGS NEVER GO AS PLANNED (Part II/VII)

"candy floss"

Summary: After Fred's death, George and Y/n lean on each other to carry on. This wasn't the most brilliant idea, though; George was pretty much in love with the girl, and Y/n— well, she had been dating Fred prior to the Battle of Hogwarts.

Pairing: George Weasley x Reader

Genre: angst

Tags:

Suggested by: @crispykittywitch

Things never go as planned: @sarcasticallywitty15 @beautyschoo1dropout @s1ut4georgeweasley @leovaldez37 @missmulti @weasleywh0r3s

Permanent taglist: @elia-the-bibliophile @randomparanoid @karlthecat15722 @thebutchersdaughtersblog

Warnings: grief, feels, brief mention of Fred x Reader ig?

A/N: I decided to name the parts bc why the fuck not so keep an eye on the titles 👀. This story is based off this convo and these headcanons. If you wanna be tagged in the next parts tell me, and enjoy <3

Prologue :the aftermath

Part I : sleepless nights

Part III: shock therapy

Part IV: wrong name

Part V: the perfect excuse

Part VI: the downfall

Part VII: apart

Epilogue: I still love you

Rogue-durin-16 masterlist

The moment the last group of customers decided it was time to call it a day and exited the shop, I left the till counter and grabbed my wand from my pocket, instantly turning the sign in the door so it could be read from outside 'closed'.

A sigh escaped my lips as I leaned against the multicolored wooden rail.

I was drained.

The shop helped our minds to get distracted and stray from the grief, yes, but it was also exhausting.

We had been subconsciously overworking ourselves to the point where it was borderline self-destructive.

It didn't help that I was throwing myself into comforting George, either. I could not be blamed for doing that, though; he was broken.

A part of me, the rational one, knew he would pick up the pieces and build himself up again, it would just take a lot of time.

There was another part of me, though, that depressed, drained part, that was beginning to think he would never heal by himself —maybe he wouldn't heal at all— but still held onto the hope that, if I tried hard enough, I would be able to mend what had been broken in him.

A terrible idea, really, because I started to dismiss in its entirety my own miserable, damaged state.

And George, ever the caring, sensible one, would have noticed that; he would have made me realize I was not doing nearly as well as I thought, he would have talked some sense into me, but he wouldn't— he couldn't, because George was lost in an ocean of grief, trying so hard not to drown that he wasn't able to notice I was trying to aid him from my very own sinking boat.

It also seemed to be working; he was more animated, slept more soundly, and his smile was a bit brighter even —at least the one he had for me.

"Rough day?" My eyes, which I didn't know I had closed, fluttered open at George's voice.

"Very."

He walked to me with a tinge of guilt in his face. "You know we can switch places, right?" I had been working as the public face of the shop since we had reopened, and George had taken on the task of doing the paperwork and shippings instead, showing up from time to time to help me and to let people know there was still a Weasley running the business.

I had been the one to suggest this, since I knew George had compromised with reopening only because of me, and he was clearly not ready to put up a sociable, positive attitude for dozens of people every day.

"Nah, it's fine like this." I assured him with a reassuring smile.

He measured me with his eyes for a second; I couldn't really tell if he saw through me or not. "So I was preparing the today's shippings," he rocked a tiny purple basket I quickly recognised in front of me. "I found this in the back of the stockroom."

"Are those—?"

"Candy floss cupcakes, yes." A year and a half ago we had bought five baskets of candy floss cupcakes from Honeydukes per George's request in order to unsuccessfully try and implement them.

"Are they even edible anymore?" I couldn't help but laugh.

"I hope so?" He chuckled too, tearing the film covering the sweets. "Thought we might as well finish them."

My eyes travelled from the basket to him and viceversa before stating, "well I'm hungry so..."

"Same here." He was the first one to pull out a pastel colored cupcake, though he handed it to me. "Wanna get food poisoning together?" Laughing, I gave him a nod as he grabbed his own cupcake. "At the count of three?"

"One"

"Two"

"Three." We said in unison right before taking a bite of our respective madeleines.

I frowned at its surprisingly good flavour. "Am I delirious or are they actually edible?"

"Dunno," he shoved the rest of his cupcake into his mouth with a shrug. "maybe we're just starving."

"Go big or go home, I guess." I finished my cupcake before leaning on the basket to pick another one. My head snapped up with my brow quirked when I heard a soft chuckle. "What?"

"Nothing." George shook his head, motioning at the stairs. "Shall we sit down?" I followed his lead, sitting on the stairs and waiting for him, who had stepped towards the drinks aisle to grab a couple of juice bottles, to do the same.

We stayed there, eating and drinking in a comfortable silence until the basket was empty and our eyelids threatened to shut.

"I think we should head back to the flat." He spoke, leaving the half empty juice aside so he could stretch.

"I'm gonna learn how to cook." I stated, getting up. "We can't get by based on most likely expired sweets and whatever is in the Leaky Cauldron menu."

"Aight." He mimicked my actions, picking up the stuff we left on the stairs. "We will learn the basics tomorrow." He got behind me and began to gently push in the flat's direction. "But now we're gonna get some sleep, miss."

I would be lying if I said my heartbeat didn't pick up when his hands landed on my shoulder blades and made their way to rub both my arms reassuringly.

I would be lying if I denied I leaned back when he did that, letting myself get closer to his chest.

And I would definitely be lying if I said I didn't crave going back to my room so I could cuddle him all night.

One Week Later

"—right in the cauldron, love." I pointed at the cauldron besides me, giving a sweet smile to the kid in front of me, visibly going to be sick thanks to the free sample of Skiving Snackboxes.

"Y/n!" I spun around at the loud calling of my name above the shop's racket. I was able to discern a long, red mane flowing fast towards my position right on time for the owner to wrap her arms around me.

"Glad to see you too, Ginny." I laughed, trying not to lose balance due to her enthusiasm. "How come you're here?" I questioned, pulling away.

"We heard you were open." Harry walked up to me, appearing from behind the girl, "And thought we'd pay a visit to our friends, right?" Ginny nodded, looking around while Harry gave me a quick, yet comforting hug. "Where's George?"

I motioned up to the small office, redirecting the couple's eyes to the second floor. "Doing paperwork—AH!" I jolted when a pair of hands tickled my sides, my head snapping to see the towering ginger standing behind me. "Speaking of the devil."

"I thought I saw Gin through the window," George explained, his hands lingering on my waist for long enough to his sister to stare, before pulling Ginny into a tight hug. "And came down to check if she was distracting my employee."

"You got her all bored here, mate." Harry pointed out, a light joking tone in his voice.

"And you're the one supposed to help with that?" George rolled his eyes dramatically. "Pfft... What a world we live in." With the said, he gave the boy a side hug. I heard Harry murmur an 'We missed you' before they pulled away with a pat on the shoulder.

My gaze landed on the youngest Weasley, whose welled up eyes were trained on her older brother's half smile. I only averted my eyes and waited for her to discreetly wipe away the unspilled tears while Harry and George catched up.

By the letters she had sent me, I reckoned the last time she had been near George, he had been lifeless; seeing a glimpse of who was once one of the most cheerful, funny and charismatic people in her life, was probably poignant to Ginny.

I hadn't realized she had moved closer until I didn't hear her soft voice. "Thank you." I offered her a confused smile, though deep down I knew what she meant.

Two Days Later

George was having one of those days.

We both knew it was coming soon; it had to happen sooner rather than later, since he had been in a surprisingly good mood for almost a week. I suspected seeing Harry and Ginny had brought back the events of the Second of May.

I suggested to close the shop for the day, since he was unable to move out of bed; he refused to do so, but I convinced him to stay in the flat and rest —it was Tuesday, anyway; I wouldn't have to handle many customers.

Due to that, when I saw Hermione, Ron, Bill and Fleur entered the shop, it was understandable that I hadn't become the happiest person in the world.

I greeted them, there were hugs, kisses, and even a joke or two, and when Bill asked about George, I excused him without giving much detail.

They understood.

Fleur was the one to restart the conversation, lightening a bit before requesting a tour for the shop, since she had not yet been there.

It was when we reached the love potions that Hermione, using the fact that Fleur was very much interested in the product, held my hand and pulled me aside.

"So... how are you doing?" The frown in her face, the fact that she was whispering, the squeeze her hand gave mine, let me know she had read me the moment her eyes met mines.

I sighed with a shrug.

"You can tell me." Could I? "No one's asking you to put on a happy face, Y/n." The girl assured me, her eyes digging into mines. "It's not just George, we all lost—" she shook her head at her own words before correcting herself. "you lost him too."

I lost him too.

I bit my lower lip to stop it from quivering.

The memory of Fred's broken smile as his corpse laid on the stretcher, that memory that haunted my dreams, appeared vividly before my eyes.

My lips started to burn with the ghost of that kiss he gave me before we split up, him with Percy and me with George; it hadn't been meant to be a goodbye kiss. It was meant to be a good luck kiss.

I covered my mouth to muffle a sob, and Hermione's arms were quick to be wrapped around me, reassuringly rubbing my back.

GEORGE'S P. O. V.

I saw them entering from Y/n's balcony; I wasn't emotionally ready to face them all at the same time, but when I didn't see them exit, I figured Y/n hadn't been able to dismiss them.

I decided I owed to them all to bite the bullet, so I threw on a shirt and the first trousers I grabbed, cleaned up a bit and left the flat.

With a deep breath, I made it to the second floor and mentally prepared myself to go down to the first one.

As I began to climb down, though, I noticed Hermione and Y/n talking in private, closer than the others to the stairs.

I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but all my senses were automatically focused on Y/n whenever we were in the same room; she just stole me away from reality.

"You lost him too."

Hermione's words visibly triggered something on Y/n.

'Something', as if I didn't know what they had triggered, as if I didn't know what— who was on her mind.

I guess he was always on her mind, though.

What was left of my heart shattered in a million pieces when she broke down to tears —for several reasons—. "I miss him." She whispered in Hermione's shoulder. "I miss him so much."

If I had any tears left, I would have cried my eyes out right there. Had I been so selfish that I had disregarded how she was feeling? So blinded by the light and love and warmth she was constantly giving me that I had forgotten about her grief? Was I that bad of a person, that I would have rather live in the illusion that she had not lost the boy she was dating?

My mind told me I didn't want any of those questions answered.

"George!" As Ron yelled my name in surprise, Hermione and Y/n pulled away, the latter rubbing her eyes while both of my brothers jogged upstairs to hug me. "Ginny told us you're open—"

"But Y/n said you weren't feeling well." Bill finished, squeezing my shoulder. "We only stayed a little longer for Fleur to see the shop."

"Yeah, we'll come back tomorrow," Ron assured me. "So you can rest and..."

My brother's voice sounded further and further with each word; I felt myself drifting off, getting lost in my own mind and gravitating towards the same thought over and over.

She deserves better.

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magalidragon · 3 years ago

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we’ll meet once more | chapter 2 | teaser

LOL I am working on it! Didn’t forget this fic! And as much as I wanted to tease an interaction in this chapter I didn’t, but I will say we meet Jon’s Dad and he isn’t Rhaegar!

Dany, who was wearing sky-high stilettos that looked like they could mirror as weapons, did not fare quite as well on the slick walkways around the port, slipping behind him, the fish sloshing up against the plastic-covered bowl top. "Rhaego!" she shouted, but her son either did not hear her-- or rather Jon thought-- ignored her.

His initial hope that Arry would be fine vanished when he saw her out of the corner of his eye. She was moving too fast. “Arry!” he exclaimed but it was too late.

Arry skidded on the walkway, and he reached out to grab her, but missed, her left leg sliding under her, tearing her pink tights. "Nooooo!" she howled, grabbing for her knee, bellowing like a wounded animal. "My kneeeee!"

"Arry!" He would not be shocked if someone called child services based off her behavior in the last five minutes. He hoisted her up, checked for blood-- none thank gods-- and hauled her up again, but she kicked, wanting back down. He sighed, trying to figure out where to take them, and Dany came up behind him, taking her hand silently.

Grateful for Dany taking on Arry who was now shouting about her torn tights, he chased after Rhaego. He feared given that there was limited safety features this far down past the check in stations for most of the boats, they'd be fishing the boy out of the harbor and that was the last thing he needed. Somehow he was sure Daenerys would blame him for it. She seemed the type. No wonder she and Ygritte were friends, he mused, probably had "We Hate Jon Snow Fan Club" buttons made.

He reached Rhaego at the end of the dock, the little boy confused, turning in circles, because there was no boat there. "Where is it?" he cried, holding his fingers in circles and lifting them to his eyes, mimicking binoculars. It was really adorable, actually. "I can't see it!"

"It was the one back there, I was trying to tell you!" Dany shouted at him.

"That one didn't have any one on it!" A boat full of children would at least have some noise, that boat didn't have anything. He left them there to gather themselves and run back up the walkway, since his rubber-soled boots could actually take him where he needed to go without fear of taking a swim, and reached the dock in question, but the boat had already pulled away, was well into the harbor. "Shit," he cursed. He spun around, grabbing a dock worker. "Hey! The Dragonstone Ferry, which one is it?"

The worker chuckled, pointing to the boat that had just pulled away. "That's the nine on its way."

"But..." he trailed off, shoulders sagging. Shit! He weakly pointed to another boat. "What about that one?"

"That one has engine trouble, so we switched them."

Shit!

He checked his watch. There was no way they could even think of trying to find another way to get the kids to Dragonstone. It was too late. And blast it all, he had to be in Davos's office in about twenty minutes. He dropped his arm, shoulders slumping, more disappointed for his daughter than he was worried about his meeting. He chewed his bottom lip, glancing at Arry, who peered up at him, wide-eyed, confused. "Sorry," he mumbled, shaking his head and sighing, leaning down to her height, and squeezing her hands comfortingly. "We missed it."

"Noooooo!"

She howled, devastated, while Rhaego looked to his mother for comfort. The look Dany set his way was scathing, and she turn in a couple of circles, peering towards the main road. "Well...we...." she sighed, reaching for the phone in his hand. "Come on, we have to get going. I'll try your uncle."

"But I don't want to go with him, I want to go with you!"

"Rhaego I can't, I have to get to work!"

Arry was screaming now, high-pitched again, and Jon hauled her upright, kneeling to her height and placed his hands on her shoulders. "Aryanna Snow, you stop that now," he ordered, putting all his military bearing into his voice, firm, decisive. She glared at him, a look reminicent of her mother, and closed her mouth, continuing to sniffle, but he could see there was no actual wetness in her eyes. Fake tears? That's new. He exhaled hard, cupping her face, gentle. "Arry, I know you are upset, but you have to stop this. It's not right."

"But I want to go!"

"I know you do and I am sorry, you're going to have to come with me." His mind racing, he thought of his mother, or maybe even his father. He checked his watch again, wincing. He had to get to the base. It was clear to the north, it'd be forever in traffic. He patted his pockets, wondering where his phone was.

It was clutched in Arry's hand, probably from the cab and he took it, against her protests. He shoved it into his pocket, looking at Dany, who was comforting Rhaego. The little boy was disappointed, but unlike Arry's explosive response to rejection, his was quieter. It made Jon sad, made him think he was kind of used to it. His heart sank. "I'm sorry Rhaego," he apologized to the little boy.

Rhaego shrugged. "S'alright," he mumbled. He looked up at his mother. "What now?"

Dany squared off against him. "Now, we get to my office while I figure out what to do the rest of the day. I hope you're happy Captain Snow."

"Hope I'm happy?" he echoed, barking a laugh. If this woman hadn't been so damn contrary all morning to everything he said, maybe they would have gotten there on time, but nope. "Maybe you need to take a look the mirror, aye?"

She made a face, checking her watch. "I have a day, you have effectively ruined it."

"Well..." he sighed. He shook his head. "Look, we're both in a jam here, I have a day too, you're not the only one with a career!"

"And what do you suggest then Captain Snow?"

"It's Jon," he said through gritted teeth. He took in her flashing amethyst gaze, the way she composed herself, bringing all of her short height up so she was at least trying to look him in the eye. He had to admit, she had presence. No wonder she was a formidable investigative journalist. He tried to smile, but it was more of a grimace. "I am suggesting we work together on this. I have a day, you have a day, and we're in the same boat."

Her eyes narrowed to slits, teeth gnashing. "My day will not include you in it Captain Snow. Thanks for the offer, but I have to get going. Arry, sweetheart, it's nice to see you, and here..." She reached into her bag, rummaging and unearthed a pouch, unzipping it and removing clear nail polish. "Hold still."

Arry watched, fascinated-- as did Jon-- as Dany squatted before her knee, dabbing the tear in the tights so it didn't continue to run. Then she took out a large bandaid, doctoered up the little scrape that Jon could barely see, and patched over it. He was about to ask what else she had in there-- state secrets? A nuclear weapon?-- when she took out an elastic headband, the perfect size for Arry's knee when wrapped twice, protecting her skin from the elements and pseudo-patching the tights.

He cocked his head, curious. "What else is in there?"

"Nothing you need to know about Jon Snow," Dany retorted, getting back to her feet. She took Rhaego's hand, grabbing the phone from him. "Stop playing with my phone."

"But Mai!"

"No, come on, we have to go, look a taxi!"

Jon called out to her. "Do you ever accept help?" That's what it was. He recognized it in himself, he hated help, but damn, sometimes you needed to take it.

Dany shouted over her shoulder. "Not from men like you Captain Snow!" She opened the taxi door, laughing and smirking. "All you do is disappoint, might as well do it myself."

He chuckled, shaking his head and lifted Arry, who was holding up her arms. His back was going to be broken by the end of the day, constantly doing this. The taxi sped off, kicking water up. He walked off towards the street, to find another cab. "Arry, darling."

"Yes Daddy?"

"Don't be like that when you grow up."

"Okay Daddy!"

#jonerys #jonerys au #my fics #my moodboards #jonerys fanfic #fic tease

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cellard0ors · 3 years ago

Text

Ficlet: Beneath The Blue

Mermay isn't over and people enjoyed Part 1, so here's some more...

Rhett has a bit of a gambling problem.

No, that's not quite right. More like a gaming problem. He likes games. He likes the rush of winning and it's not so much about money as the thrill of nailing a dart on a bullseye or getting a hole in one or - well - being right.

He really loves that one. Trivia, guessing games, riddles - lucking out on the right answer or just knowing it, always makes him feel fantastic. He's had marginal luck in his life. With basketball, with singing, and now - with his new current career - fishing, but games?

Rhett's always mastered those, rarely ever a loser. But the thing is, to do those things, he tends to have to use cash as an entry to play, thus - a sort-of-not-really gambling problem.

And winning in those kind of situations is also a problem, because, after some time - it tends to attract...attention. And usually the bad kind. Recently it was very much the bad kind, because he was at The 101, engaging in his normal play only to be snatched up by some very rough looking characters.

Ones who took him into a backroom and decided to skip right over the 'broken knuckles' threat and jump right into the 'you're going to go sleep with the fishes' threat.

To be fair, they probably went quickly into the decision once he started fighting back. Rhett's not much of a brawler, but he's a big guy and that in and of itself can create...issues. Especially if his temper is up.

Long story short - Rhett's bit of a gambling problem led him to being clonked over the head (more than once, matter of fact) and taken out to sea. His last real memory before hitting the water was that he'd been amazed at the boulder they'd found to attach him to - where had they gotten such a huge rock from? A landfill?

Not that it mattered - rock, rope, and Rhett all went overboard and into the deep. Rhett tried not to hold his breath, to struggle enough just to get loose, but, in the end - he'd been lost.

Except he hadn't been.

He'd awoken to find the setting sun bathing him in golden light and, above him, an angel. Because only an angel could have such eyes. Eyes as blue and deep and mysterious as the sea he was supposed to have died in.

His throat ached from damn near drowning but he'd still managed to ask the angel for his name. And he'd gotten it.

Link.

But then the angel had turned, vanished, and Rhett had seen that - while he was right about his mythical savior - he was not at all right about what kind.

Because Link had a tail.

A fish tail.

One as sparkling blue and captivating as his eyes and he'd disappeared into the surf so fast, Rhett began to question his sanity.

Had he imagined it all? The entire experience had been traumatic as heck - maybe it was just a coping mechanism for his mind? But then, far out, he'd seen a head appear above the waters.

Seen it and a shy wave and he'd waved back, because what else could he do? He wasn't dead and he wasn't crazy. He'd been saved. Saved...by a mermaid (merman?) named Link.

Which leads to now and his camping out full time on this small rocky stretch of lonely beach. Rhett made sure to check in with the local marina, see if it was okay for him to dock his tiny fishing boat, The Bluegrass, nearby. And 'nearby' was about a mile or so away, because this bit of land is pretty unoccupied and small.

...the perfect place for a merman (mermaid?) to drop off someone they saved. And, hopefully, return to? Rhett's not sure - honestly, this whole thing might be a fool's errand, but either way - he has a tent pitched and is waiting.

Waiting to see if Link returns.

Night after night seems like a failure. Still, Rhett doesn't mind. He can be patient. His last haul (fish-wise, not gambling-wise) earned him a considerable amount, so there's no harm in waiting.

Still, as he sits here now, the sky a lovely lilac as the sun dips low beneath the horizon, he can't help but feel like time's running out. Honestly, what did he expect? For Link to return and want to...what? Be best friends?

The person...creature...per-creature? Did what he could and Rhett should just be grateful and move on. But there was something about him...and those eyes...and that voice...

Rhett cracks open another can of soda, takes a deep sip when he hears it. The water's waves have become almost a white noise at this point, so consistent, but this...this is different. Just a little splish. Or splash. Or whatever.

And it's close. He puts the can down and quickly surges to his feet, looking out intently over the water and then he sees it. Just the top of someone's head. His head. Dark wet hair and blue eyes behind...are those glasses? And Rhett can't see his nose or anything else, but he can see enough to cry out, "Hey!"

The head rears back, sinks some, and Rhett feels a surge of panic, not wanting to lose this opportunity, "No! Wait, wait! Link! I-!"

The head stops, goes still. Rhett continues on, desperate for this to continue, "Please...don't go."

He doesn't.

Bolstered, Rhett continues, hoping he's heard, understood, "I...I just-? You saved me."

Link simply blinks.

"Thank you."

There's a bobbing in the water around him and Rhett's pretty sure Link nodded. Rhett edges just that little bit closer, "I...I'd hoped you'd come back. Not only so I could thank you, but so...um...maybe-? Maybe we could-? Could talk-?"

Link sinks a little more again, but Rhett can still see his eyes and, as long as he can see those, he feels okay, "I mean...you-you came back. Right? So-so maybe you'd-? You'd like to talk too?"

Link's head disappears.

Rhett feels his heart break. But then he notices that the water is moving. There's a rippling, the kind he sees when fish swim close to the surface. As if to punctuate that thought, the broad tip of a blue tail rises up and out, pushing against the waves.

He's swimming closer!

Rhett resists the urge to hoot in delight, to pumping his arms in victory, as Link pushes forward and, on the next movement of water, he surges upwards - his whole head visible now.

Link's entire face is nice.

A strong jaw, a good nose, a very fine mouth and yeaaaah, Rhett doesn't want Link to swim off, so he's going to do his very best not to focus on that mouth too much as he says, "I'm-I'm Rhett."

Link licks his lips, dips his head shyly, "I'm Link."

"Y-Yeah, you-you said..."

They both just sort of eyeball one another, both clearly unsure of what to make of the other. Of how to proceed. Eventually Rhett does, "So, ah, you're-? You're a mermaid?"

Link's eyebrows rise.

"Merman?"

"Just Mer," Link clarifies, "Our kind doesn't really attach those bits on the end there."

"Really?"

Link nods, "Humans came up with that one."

"Oh? We-we did?"

Another nod, "Back when we first used to come across one another."

"...take it that doesn't really happen now?"

"Not really. No."

Another awkward silence falls. Rhett scratches at one cheek, struggling for something else to say when Link blurts, "You're hairy."

Rhett lowers his hand and - much to his own surprise - he bursts out laughing. Link colors some and he gives a bashful smile and okay, Rhett said he wasn't going to pay too much attention to that mouth, but it's hard when it's so danged cute, "Yeah, yeah I am, brother."

"Bro-ther?" Link repeats and it's clearly a word he's unfamiliar with. Rhett beams, "'Brother'. We use it for family members. Y'know, the boys born from the same Momma and such. Can be a term of endearment too."

"Oh..." Link seems pleased with this and Rhett grins, "You got one?"

Link's eyebrows knit together and Rhett explains, "A brother? Or-or some other family or-?"

"I was spawned from another Mer. She came to shore to give birth to me."

Rhett's eyes grow wide, "You-? You were born on land?"

Link nods, "Most of us are. Mers walk between both worlds more often than not."

Rhett lets that one wash over him even as Link comes closer. Rhett can see his tail better now. It's amazing. Glossy and sparkling blue, the scales tightly knit. Rhett's first reaction is wanting to touch it but he quickly shutters that idea - recognizing it as beyond rude. They've just started talking to one another, for goodness sake!

Still, seeing it rest against the wet sand of the shoreline is tempting and seeing it move, more so. It slides and slithers, but in such an enticing way. Rhett moves a little closer, foam teasing at his toes as Link looks up (and up) at him, "Hard to talk at this level..."

Rhett realizes he probably looks like a giant at Link's angle, the Mer practically lying at his feet, so he lowers himself down until his butt hits the sand, crossing his legs at the ankles, "Better?"

Link nods and Rhett does a bit of a wiggle backward to avoid getting his khaki cargo shorts wet. There's an amused smirk around Link that says he recognizes that action. But of course he does - Mers, apparently, can traverse between land and sea.

So, Link is probably aware of how clothing works. Has he ever worn clothing? Come to the shore? Rhett wants to ask so many questions, but isn't sure what's appropriate and what isn't, but Link beats him to the questioning, "Are you a fisherman?"

Rhett lets out a strained 'Ah-?' as he immediately realizes that the true answer will no doubt insult his new acquaintance, but, again, Link beats him to the punch, "You've got the attire for it. Flannel shirt, baseball cap..."

Rhett frowns, "You think fisherman have a particular attire?"

"To my recollection..." The remark makes Rhett chuckle again, unable to help himself, "'Recollection' - you sound so danged southern. Just like me. I was born and raised in North Carolina."

Link beams, "That's where I was spawned! My sire came from the same location. Not all Mers are from the sea. Some reside in lakes, rivers - any water deep enough to conceal us, but a lot of us return to the ocean, considering its the biggest body of water."

Rhett lets that sink in even as Link again asks, "So, you are a fisherman, right?"

"Um-?"

"It's okay if you are," Link assures him, folding his arms and resting his chin there, "It's not really a proud profession amongst my kind, but it's understandable."

Rhett's lips twitch from side to side, "So I'm not, like, catching up your friends or something?"

Link snorts, "What - you think we talk to them?"

"Heck, man - I don't know how it works," Rhett lets out a peal of nervous giggles, getting the idea that Link is teasing him. Link returns the laugh and Rhett relaxes as a realization settles in.

Whether or not Rhett wants to admit it, he did want Link to return. He wanted him to return and be his friend and it appears that that is indeed what is happening.

It's happening and Rhett couldn't be any happier.

#rhink #mermay #mermaid!au #my writing #randl

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possiamo-andare · 5 years ago

Text

No More Divisions - Chapter Nine: Love

JJ x Original Character

MASTERLIST

I don't know of y'all are ready for this one...

When I saw Ward, I felt like we were losing all over again. We had gotten a taste of victory with helping John B. escape the clutches of Deputy Shoupe but now, it felt like it was for nothing. I thought back to JJ's questions; would things ever be easier? I doubted it even more now. Things would never be normal as long as Shoupe thought John B. was guilty. We gave him evidence and still, he is more than ready to get a murderer to help him.

JJ was the first to speak up. We had all been in a state of shock, that none of had spoken up yet. Ward was already beside Shoupe and near the radio connected to the boat John B. was on by the time any of us said anything.

"You've got to be kidding me?!"

I was next. "You're crazy dude."

The fed glared at me. "My name is Agent Bratcher."

I shrugged. "I'll just call you fed."

Pope stepped forward, moving to JJ's side. "I'm sure Ward won't completely fuck up the situation entirely." His sarcasm travelled through the entire tent. his was one of the first times seeing Pope so strong in his convictions I almost wanted to laugh.

Shoupe rolled his eyes. I swear, I could punch him right now. "He's Sarah's father. If anyone can convince Sarah to turn the boat around, it's her father."

This time I moved forward, glaring at Ward the entire time. "Sure, that might work. If it wasn't for the fact Sarah hates her father, dude."

Ward looked hurt by those words, as if he could not fathom the idea of Sarah not liking him after all that he has done to John B. and his family. "Callie, I'm her father."

I turned to him, angrily looking him up and down. "I don't see a father. I see a weak excuse of a man."

JJ and Pope both cackled behind me as I said this. I looked to JJ would seemed proud. I don't exactly know why he was proud because I was being completely rude to Ward, but I'm guessing it was because Ward deserved it. Also, JJ loved this type of stuff. I'm sure if I ever started fighting someone, he would be cheering me on as Kiara tried to pull me off whoever the poor soul was.

"Stop that right now!" I fed yelled at us, specifically glaring at me. "If you won't help us, then Ward is more than happy to."

Kiara now spoke, "Okay. We''l just watch your plan fail."

The fed and Shoupe waved us away from the station where the radio was but we stayed put, wanting to see this complete massacre with our own eyes.

I took a step back, standing beside JJ again. I looked at him and he was already looking at me. I smiled at him and grabbed his hand. He squeezed it tightly. Then I remembered something. "You had to tell me something before. What was it?"

JJ's eyes widened for a moment then looked away. "Oh nothing. It sounds stupid now."

I nudged his arm with my shoulder. "C'mon, nothing you say is stupid. What's up?"

JJ sighed, looking to the ground and then back to me. "I was gonna say that when this thing is over, we should probably go out."

I smiled. "Go out where?" For all the teasing he ever did to me, it was my turn.

JJ blushed. I repeat, he blushed. What was up with this guy? "Maybe for dinner or something?"

"With Kiara and Pope?" Now I was purposely being annoying just because I loved to see him struggle.

JJ caught on pretty quick and chuckled at me once he realized. "Never-mind. I hate you again."

I quietly gasped, looked to Ward setting the radio to the right frequency, and then looked back to JJ. "You hated me?"

JJ smirked and nodded. "Yeah. If you didn't know, you're a Kook."

"Do you hate me now?" I lean forward, my lips inches from his.

He looks down at our lips. "No..."

We were about to kiss but,just as our lips were about to touch, Ward yells out.

"SARAH!"

We all look to him. Shoupe is standing in front of him as the fed watches our reactions. I think for a moment they are listening but when no one responds, I sigh. I hope they don't answer. I hope they can get out. I hope they don't turn around.

Then, Ward yells again, this time for John B. "JOHN B.!"

There's a moment of silence. Then, over the radio, we all hear the sound of waves crashing. My breath hitches in my throat and JJ squeezes my hand tighter. He makes no sound but I can tell he is just as nervous as me, maybe even more.

Ward, confident they're listening, speaks again, "John B, I know you are there, son. I know you can hear me," He takes a deep breath. "and if you love my daughter like I think you love my daughter, then you will turn that boat around and come back."

I shake my head. No, he's playing on his love for Sarah.

Please John B. don't listen to him. He's a murderer. He's evil.

There's still no response but we all know he's listening. So is Sarah. We know they are listening to every word and maybe even contemplating on turn back around. I hope to god they are not but Ward is acting so rational he almost doesn't seem like a killer. Almost. There still is something in his voice that I can tell in a little bit of venom directed at John B. He knows that either way, he is getting out of this situation a free man. If John B. returns, they will arrest him for a crime Rafe committed and if he doesn't, Sarah leaves too and then it's my word against one of the richest men in OBX. I doubt my parents will side with me knowing that friends I have now. Either way, we are losing and Ward is winning again.

Ward speaks again. "You are going into a storm that you cannot survive. John B, please, I will make it right. I promise you. Come back."

This makes my blood boil. Ward was the one that messed everything up in the first place. Him and his deranged son.

"No! John B.! He's a liar!" I scream rushing forward and trying to grab a hold of Ward's radio. Two officers grab a hold of both of my arms and drag me away.

"Let go of her!" JJ screams, jumping onto one of the officers.

I'm kicking and screaming and JJ in fighting one of them as Pope and Kiara fight the other. More officers come and hold all of them back. I'm hysterical. I'm screaming as loud as I can for John B. and Sarah. They can't come back. If they come back, everything we have done, everything we have sacrificed, was for nothing.

Just as the officers start to drag us out of the tent, Shoupe yells at them. "Let them stay," He smirks at me, happy to see that I'm crying. "They are gonna hear this."

We are brought back to where we originally were and now, officers are holding us down as we listen to Ward talk. I want to cover my ears but the officers are holding my hands behind my back.

"John B, I am begging you. Think of her and turn around." Ward finishes, looking at me finally. No one else can see it but I can. He's smirking. It's very faint but I can still see it. He thinks he's won.

We all wait for a response. At first, I think maybe it was the wrong frequency all along and maybe they heard nothing. Then, the radio turns on and we can hear heavy breathing along with the sound of the storm behind it. I know it's John B., and so does JJ, Kiara and Pope. I look at the, They are all thinking the same thing; he's pissed.

"Ward Cameron, do you hear me?"

JJ lets out a sigh. He's there and he's been listening to everything. I want to yell again but I can't; my throat burns from all the yelling.

Ward smiles and gives Shoupe a thumbs up. "Yes. Yes, son, I'm right here. I'm right here. Please bring her back, okay? We'll work it all out when you get home."

I hang up head. No, please don't listen to him.

Then John B. speaks again. " You killed my father, and you framed me for a murder I didn't commit."

I look back up, surprised. John B. doesn't believe him. He's not turning back. Thank god.

Ward looks to the fed, confused. He's still playing the part of the confused and concerned father. The fed isn't looking at him though, he's looking at me. His face is filled with surprise. He raises his brows at me and all I do is nod. I'm wondering if he truly believes me now?

John B. speaks again. "You took everything from me!"

I can hear the anger from through the radio. I'm almost scared for Ward. He looks actually concerned now, he's not playing a part anymore.

I look to JJ. He's being held back by the officers but when I look at him, he's pale. I know why. When John B. comes back to OBX, he will kill Ward.

John B. yells again. "You took everything from me!" I try to imagine John B. and Sarah on that boat going into the storm. My heart drops. Please let them make it. "But I'm still here. And I swear to God, Ward, I will come back one day and take back what's mine."

Ward's brows are pushed together. He's shaking and I can see sweat form on his forehead. He knows John B. is serious and now he's scared. I would be too. In one last ditch effort to calm John B., he tries to speak again but it's too late. John B. is holding down the button so Ward can't speak.

"So, you listen to me, all right? I'm comin' for you. I'm coming for you."

And then the radio is silent. John B. and Sarah are done talking.

Shoupe looks at us, his face as white as snow. I guess he's not smirking any longer. He looks at me and now I'm the one smirking. They are gone. He knows they'll never catch him.

"Told you." I say bitterly, smiling at Shoupe.

"Get them away from my sight." growls Shoupe.

The officer start dragging us away and Shoupe and the fed start whispering to each other. The officer that is holding me is talking to the officer that is holding JJ and I see this as my last opportunity to speak to Sarah. I have come to terms I might never see her again and I just want to say one last thing. So, the second I see that the officer is distracted I loosen my grip on him and run to the radio. Ward is no longer there anymore and no one is guarding it. I am running so fast my legs are burning but I move quickly and dodge the grasp of the officer that was holding me before. I grab the radio as fast as I can and press the button to speak. I see the fed, Shoupe and the officer running towards me so I know I have to speak quickly.

I say the only thing that matters. "I love you Sarah. We aren't divided."

I say this because when Sarah first started dating John B., I had been focused too much on the fact he was a Pogue and she was a Kook and it wouldn't work out. She had told me that those divisions didn't matter. Love is love. There should be no more divisions when it came to love. I hope she gets my reference.

Seconds later, the officer grabs onto me and slaps the radio out of my hand. He's dragging me away again but I don't fight. I said what I needed to say. I don't expect her to say anything else but I just wanted to say goodbye.

As I am getting dragged away, I hear a voice come from the radio. The person is crying but I can tell they are happy because they are laughing through the tears. "You're golden Callie. There's no more divisions."

I'm full on bawling now but I don't care. I will miss her so much but I know I wouldn't change anything that has happened. I found JJ and she I had the best ten years with the best friend anyone could ask for.

The officer drags me to the second tent and I get wet because it is raining outside. When I'm in the second tent, I'm surrounded by JJ and Kiara and Pope. They're all asking me what she said, what it meant and I try to tell them everything. I can see my parents in the background but I ignore them for now. I need to talk to my family.

JJ hugs me and cups my face in his hands. He's wet too and the droplets from his hair are dropping on my face. "That was so stupid. Why'd you do that?"

I shrug. "I don't know."

But I do know. Because Sarah is right. When you love someone, there should be no more divisions.

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alexhogh7137 · 4 years ago

Text

The Battle Between Love and Fire-

Ivar the Boneless × Reader

Chapter Thirty: The Hidden Door

Chapter Twenty-Nine pt Two

Word Count 3.2k

Warnings: Slight angst, some fluff

When you and Ivar got in bed, he stayed up for the longest time: playing with your hair, messaging your arm with his fingertips, kissing your forehead, fiddling with your fingers that rested on his chest. He lost you tonight, how long? He does not know, but it was long enough for his liking. He can't get over the fact that he could have lost you forever, which makes him feel sick to his stomach. You notice how he has not fallen asleep yet so you look up at your husband.

"Ivar?" You say, half asleep from dozing off.

Ivar smiles, "Yes sweetheart?"

"You haven't slept yet, have you?"

Ivar "No, not yet."

"Are you okay?"

Ivar "I am fine my sweet. I'm just admiring you, I-" you lean up slightly to connect your lips to his. He grabs your face and holds you for a moment before you both have to break away for air.

"I know when you are worried, Ivar."

Ivar sighs, "I have every right to be worried..you are my wife."

"Your wife who is alive and in your arms, hun.."

Ivar "And I cannot thank the gods enough for bringing you back to me. I don't know what I'd do if-"

"Don't."

Ivar "You are my entire world, Y/n. Without you, I'd have no one, nothing to live for."

"You have your brother's-"

Ivar "No I don't. Hvitserk and I have grown close only because of you. We bond over the love we share for you. And Ubbe just loves me because we are brother's.."

"You have your people.."

Ivar "My people do not love me princess. They went against me multiple times. Like I said..you are all I have. You are the only one that truthfully loves me."

"I do Ivar. I have loved you from the moment I met you and I will love you for as long as I live."

Ivar smiles, "I know that to be true, and I love you the same. That is why tonight is haunting me."

"I am right here, my beloved." He squeezes you, holding you tighter in his arms.

Ivar "And I'm not letting you go."

"I never want you to let me go. We have forever together.."

Ivar "Yes we do." He leans down and kisses you ever so gently. "I love you."

"And I love you. Now shut those beautiful eyes of yours and get some rest."

Ivar chuckles, "Yes my queen."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Morning comes and when everyone awakes, everyone is absolutely exhausted and look like they are ill. Hvitserk's eyes are almost swollen shut from all of the crying he did last night, and Ubbe and Torvi have been up since first light.

Hvitserk "I'm relieved that you are still coming out of that bedroom door Y/n." You don't respond, only hugging him. He hugs you back, taking it all in.

Ivar "Ubbe is out there, yes?"

Hvitserk "Yes, him and Torvi. Everyone has been working since first light."

Ivar "Good."

Hvitserk looks down at you, "How are you feeling?"

"Sore.."

Hvitserk "Can I see?" You nod and show him your chest. It is reddened and looks very irritated. "gods.."

"I am fine."

Hvitserk "If you say so princess."

"I-" you attempt to speak but you get cut off by your carrier running towards you three.

"A letter, my king!" Ivar takes it immediately and opens it with great haste. You see his eyes scatter along the piece of parchment as he reads in a hurry. You study his face to see if his mood changes in any way, shape or form.

Hvitserk "Is it-"

"Thyra?"

Ivar smiles, "Yes, she is alright!" You breathe out in relief to hear that your friend was alive and well. "She has agreed to help us."

"That is great news!"

Ivar "It is-"

Hvitserk "But..?"

Ivar "She needs time."

"How much time?"

Ivar "Three days."

Hvitserk "We have to inform Rollo of this setback."

Ivar "Yes, you go do that." Hvitserk agrees and walks off.

"What are your thoughts?"

Ivar "We do not really have any other choice but to wait."

"Can I see the letter?" He hands it to you for you to read.

The letter reads as follows: Hello Y/n. I am sorry for the delay, your father has been monitoring my actions very closely. But I will of course help you and your husband in the retrieval of the weapons. I know that your dragons mean a great deal to you and I can not fathom seeing you lose any of them. With that being said, I ask for three days to make absolutely sure that everyone will keep you, king Ivar and his men safe. In some way, I must get a few guardsmen to help me and that will take time to negotiate. So I ask for this time, please. I hope you are okay, my friend. I hope to see you soon.

-Thyra

You look up at Ivar who still does not know what to think. You hand him the parchment back and rest into his side as he grabs your waist.

Ivar sighs, "At least your friend is alright, hmm?"

"Yeah, that puts my mind at ease."

Ivar "Rollo will not be happy with this set back-"

"Well we either wait three days or my dragons die." Ivar's eyes gloss with sadness. He has grown to love your three magnificent creatures and would be heartbroken if something happened to them.

Ivar "We will wait, my dear. Do not worry, okay?"

"Yes...if we do wait the three days, that means only seven days left to prepare for the siege. And Rollo is coming in from-"

Ivar "I know..I know. Perhaps the gods knew something that we don't. Everything will work out in our favor, I promise."

"Don't promise me that. Just promise to never leave me.."

Ivar "Y/n."

"I can't lose you Ivar. Just like you can't lose me.." he leans down, cups your cheeks and kisses you.

Ivar "I'm not going anywhere. You give me every reason to keep fighting..to live."

"I love you."

Ivar "And I love you, my love."

The remainder of the day was rough to say the least. You helped Ubbe, Hvitserk and Torvi clean up the village as best as you could. Ubbe kept making you stop and take breaks because he knew the pain that you were in. Bless his heart. Your family is so loving and you feel blessed to have this life that you have now. But you know that your past is not over with, but it will be soon and you can move on completely.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Three Days Later…

Yesterday, Thyra wrote to Kattegat once more: telling us to arrive in the back of the kingdom, rather than the front entrance. She stated that she has over ten guards in on this retrieval plan and that everything will go smoothly.

You ride in the ship with Ivar and his brothers instead of traveling my dragon. They need to stay safe, they need to stay home. They of course were resistant to the idea of leaving you but you reassured them that you will return to them as soon as possible. All three of them watched you leave and whimpered until you were out of sight.

Ivar "They really love you, princess."

"I know they do. I've raised them, they are like my children.."

Hvitserk "They are. You are a mother of dragon's."

Ubbe "What a title!"

You smirk, "I will hold that title proudly."

Ivar "A mother of dragons, married to a viking God.."

"And I wouldn't have it any other way."

Ubbe "You are not a God, Ivar."

Ivar "To you I am not. But that is not what my heart tells me." Hvitserk scoffs.

"Let's just get this job done and go home.."

Ivar "We will, my love. Your friend made it clear. We will be in and out, yes?"

Ivar held you from behind as you all looked at your horizon. So vast with so much potential. You breathe in the fresh, cool air and as it fills your lungs, you sigh from the peacefulness of this very moment. Ubbe looks at you with a smile on his face. He admires you, not only as a warrior, but also as a strong woman that you are. You have endured many battles, whether it being internal or physical, you have endured it all but you are still here. He is proud to call you his sister, much more than he was his last one, Freydis. He knew deep down that she was an issue but he of course kept that to himself.

Hvitserk "We should be there soon." You take a deep breath and lean more into Ivar for comfort. He holds you and rubs your skin.

Ivar whispers, "You're going to be by my side the whole time..I'm not going to let anything happen to you." You slowly nod but think to yourself, 'Right..I've been taken while you slept by my side...and I got stabbed five days ago..' Hvitserk looks at Ivar with disgust. He heard his whisper and knew that he has said that in the past but look at everything that has happened. He wished that he could have been the one who was stabbed, not you. If he could take away your aches, he would. If anyone will keep you safe, it's him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When the castle comes into your sight, like you expected, you felt the panic set in. So much so that you almost pass out from the fear of coming in contact with your father.

Ivar "Put your mask on, my love." You agree and place a black piece of cloth over your mouth and nose to hide your face besides your eyes. Ivar puts his hood over his head, same with Ubbe and Hvitserk. When you stand up, Hvitserk grabs your hand in reassurance.

Hvitserk "You've got this kitten."

"Jus-just don't let him take me again..promise me."

Hvitserk "Y/n, I am not letting you out of my sight. No one is going to harm you, I swear it."

"I just want to get the weapons and leave immediately."

Hvitserk "And we will. I know that you are scared," you look up at him, "and you have a right to be. Your father has done barbaric things to you..if I could have stopped it back then, I would. I would save you from all that heartache but I am here now." He looks around the boat, "We are all here now. We can protect you now, princess. So look at me," your eyes lock with his, "I promise that you will be safe. I love you, I'm not going to lose you again." You lean into Hvitserk so that he can kiss your forehead, making your eyes close from the comfort that it brings you.

"I love you too, Hvitty."

He looks at you and bursts out laughing, "Hvitty? I love it. Is that going to be my nickname from now on?"

"If you would like."

Hvitserk "I would love that, I love anything that you call me."

Ubbe "We are here, come on brother's."

Ivar takes your hand and keeps you attached to his side while Ubbe and Hvitserk get out of the boat first.

…

As soon as you reach the back entrance, you see 5+ guardsmen guarding the back entrance with Thyra in front of them. You sigh and run to her. Ivar hisses for you to return to his side but you do not listen. When Thyra sees you, she runs and embraces you like she hasn't seen you in years.

Thyra "Are you okay? Please tell me you've been okay!"

"I'm fine..are you-"

Thyra "I'm fine too-"

Ivar "Where are they?"

Thrya "They are inside."

Ubbe "We get that, where?"

Thyra "Follow me." Everyone, including you, hesitate to follow her. "There are guards inside..they know to keep the king away from that room.."

Ivar "What if they betray you-"

Thyra "Look, if you thought that I would betray you, then why did you come?"

Ivar "Watch how you talk to me.." he said very sternly.

Thyra "My apologies. But we cannot stand here and talk, the longer we wait, the less confident I am with this being successful. So please, follow me." Ubbe goes first, then you and Ivar, then Hvitserk. Being inside the castle is a struggle for you. But it brings you some security knowing that you have your husband and his brother's with you at all times. Ivar singles his men to surround you all. The warriors have their swords drawn and their shields up.

She walks out into the hallway and you all pause. Ivar holds his finger up to his lips to signal everyone to stay absolutely quiet.

Ubbe draws his ax, "I don't like how we are in the open."

Hvitserk "If anything happens, she's going next." He gestures over to Thyra and Ubbe agrees. If Thyra is betraying you all, then she is the cause.

Thyra "It's in here." She whispers, heading towards a door. You recognize the door and get flashbacks so strong that it makes your knees buckle. You can see your younger self, running towards this door and your mother holding it open for you. She always tried her hardest to keep you from your father's wrath.

Ivar "My love.."

"Huh?"

Ivar "Look at me.." you stray your eyes from the door to meet your husband's eyes, "talk."

"It's...flashbacks."

Ivar "Can you go in? If not, I will stay out here with you."

"I have to see the weapons myself..I know where they are. I have to go in." Ivar nods and walks with you hand in hand. Going in, your eyes lock to the cupboards that you used to hide in. Once everyone is in, the door is shut and three guardsmen guard it from the king or his men. Hvitserk takes off his hood and looks down at you.

Hvitserk "Is it in here?" You don't answer, you just walk towards a part in the wall that looks 'off'. You kneel down and put your nails in the cracks, opening a hidden door, revealing a pile of weapons.

Ivar "Son of a bitch.." he says as you pull out every last steel weapon from the hole in the wall.

Hvitserk "I have never seen such a weapon." You look at the tip and get furious.

"They were not made to kill men and women. He made these specifically to kill dragon's."

Ubbe "Why would he do that? Didn't he have dragons himself?"

"Yes he did. I don't know why he would wish to kill them."

Thyra "Y/n.." you look up at her and then it clicks in your mind. He had these weapons made when he decided on gifting you the three dragon eggs. Right after he made up his mind, your mother was killed, that is how she knew where he hid them from you.

You stand up and hand them to your warriors, "Let's go home."

Ivar "Y/n," he grabs you because he can tell that your mood has shifted drastically, "my love?"

"Ivar I need to leave before I run out of this room, find him, and kill him where he stands." Hvitserk grabs your hips as a reminder to breathe.

Hvitserk "Remember the mission-"

Ubbe "Lets go." He looks at his brother and lets you go.

Ivar "Ubbe is right, let's just go. You will feel better once you are out of these walls."

He grabs your arms and pulls you out of the room. You all rush out of the castle, staying close together. Thyra stops by the door once you all are out and safe. You look back at your friend and feel your emotions get the best of you.

Thyra "Hey, don't cry." She pulls you into her arms, "I will be safe, just get out of here."

"Thank you, I love you so much."

Thyra "I love you more, now go." She pushes you and you all walk back to the boats. Once you are all in, you take your mask off and sit down. Mission complete, time to go home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ivar sighs once he sits down on the side of the boat, resting his legs. You sit on the floor, next to the weapons. Hvitserk and Ubbe sit down on each side of you.

Ubbe nudges you, "You good sis?"

"Just angry."

Ubbe "Talk to us, maybe we can help." You spend time telling them what you realized back in that room. They listened and felt the anger in your voice.

Ubbe "I am sorry that he even made these in the first place. But he does not have them anymore, we do. They won't be used on your dragons..they won't be used at all if you wish."

"I just want him gone.."

Hvitserk "He will be soon, Y/n." You nod and rest your head on his shoulder. Ivar smiles and looks off into the distance, thanking the gods that you are all safe and have successfully retrieved the weapons.

You stayed by Hvitserk until you reached Kattegat. You rose when you heard your dragon's shout for you. They got so excited that all three of them flew over the boat and hovered above you all. You greet them and thank the gods for your safe return.

Ivar "Let's hide these weapons. I don't want anyone to know where they are except for us four, got it?"

"Yes, my king." The man said. You all got off and headed for the house. Torvi and her daughter ran to Ubbe in a loving greeting. Seeing Ubbe with his children (including Ragnar) makes you so excited to become a mom. You look down and rub your belly with a smile on your face.

"I can't wait to meet you, little one." You say to her.

Hvitserk "Neither can I." You didn't know that he was behind you. You figured that he went inside already so it took you for a surprise.

"It feels like time is going by so slowly."

Hvitserk "That is only because you are eager. And once the siege is over, you will have more time to relax and focus on her growing, rather than worrying."

"You are right."

Ubbe "Lets go inside and eat, yeah?"

Torvi "Our hunters caught big today."

Hvitserk "Oh yeah, how big?"

Torvi "Biggest we've caught in a while." Hvitserk giddily runs into the house to see what we will all be eating. You and Torvi laugh.

Torvi walks over and hugs you, "I am glad that today went well."

"As am I. I am glad that we came back in one piece." You force a laugh.

Torvi "Thank gods..come on, let's go feed you and the baby."

"Good, we are starving." You all enjoy your day and feast with cups of ale and lots of laughter. Today was a success and hopefully the siege that is bound to happen in just a few days, will be as successful as today's retrieval.

@hvitserkmarcosource @youbloodymadgenius @ivarsgoddess @a-mess-of-fandoms @herestherealproblem @readsalot73 @heavenly1927 @saldelys @ivarzeitgeist

#alex hogh andersen #ivar the boneless #ubbe lothbrok #hvitserk #vikings #marco ilsoe #hvitserk lothbrok #jordan patrick smith #torvi vikings #the battle between love and fire

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frankenfic · 5 years ago

Text

prompt #4

fandom(s): avatar: the last airbender and boku no hero academia

main character: todoroki shōto, and sorta zuko

other characters: all atla characters except zuko (it'll be explained), and also i'm combining zuko and todoroki's moms into one super mom.

setting: atla universe, with some changes to "zuko's" backstory.

basically i love zuko and todoroki and while i was watching bnha amvs i was thinking about them when i got the sudden thought—what if we replaced zuko in the atla universe with todoroki, and kept todoroki's waterbending ice ability??!?!?

basically, i imagined todoroki as zuko wandering the earth kingdom or whatever while pretending to just be an ordinary waterbender.

like, maybe zuko/todoroki's mom secretly had some waterbending ancestry and by some miracle (curse) zukoroki ended up with both firebending and waterbending.

like, he's still got the same thing where he grew to resent his father for what he did to him and his mother and refuses to use his left side firebend bc he doesn't want to be like his father and shit. except now with the bonus of banishment?

the hard part is figuring out which parts of either of the backstories to keep. for example: who gave him the scar? his mother? or his father?

idea: they both did. now, bear with me here—what i'm thinking, is maybe we keep the incident with todoroki's mom burning him with boiling water from a teapot (maybe iroh's there, idk—or, maybe that's why he always gets so angry when uncle tries to offer him tea, bc everytime he sees it or smells it it triggers his fucking ptsd of the person he trusted most in the world betraying him and causing him unimaginable pain, but like no one knows that bc it was kept so hush-hush that only zuko, ozai, super-mom, and maybe azula know) bc he reminds her of his father—

oh my god sorry for the intermission but what if she burned azula instead bc she's so much more like ozai and then ozai burned zuko bc he's too much like his mother and then we just have both of the royal fire children with burned and scarred faces, one with a burn from boiling hot water and the other from a searing roaring flame and just...both each have burns from one of their parents oh my gOD the ANGST

—and for a couple of years he goes around the palace with this horrible burn and people always stare bc like...that's the crown prince and shit. and idk ozai's probably not happy with it, but the point is:

when it comes to the agni kai, ozai decides to be extra cruel and burns zukoroki in the same spot his super-mum did, except harder and hotter so the burn is ever larger and more painful, so much so that it even reaches his ear and he can no longer open his eye all the way and his eyesight is probably damaged and maybe his hearing as well and—

and then he gets banished and he decides, you know what. fuck it.

his mom's gone, ozai's an asshole, his face burns, he can't see or hear right, and ozai still never found out he could waterbend. so.

todozuko is done with the fire nation. he's had fucking enough. he's decided he doesn't wanna go back, and no uncle i'm never changing my mind.

what would happen if i found the avatar? well i'd help him if if meant defeating my father—and go ahead, tell everyone how much of a traitor i am, i don't care. i'm already banished anyway.

you...what? you're—proud of me?? uncle, what—

and so zhōto and iroh end up traveling together (and maybe the crew, too? idk) zhōto eventually works up the courage to tell iroh about his waterbending and at first he's really terrified about uncle's reaction but

uncle looks at him like he's a fucking miracle or something, he looks at him with wonder and amazement and—

come, zhouto!!!! where are we going???? to get waterbending scrolls, of course!!!!! pick your jaw off the ground, there's no time to waste!!!! think about everything you're going to learn, everything you should've been taught years ago!!!! you're going to be a master waterbender, i just know it!!!!!!

and bc they never ditched the ship or told the fire nation of their treachery (for conviences sake) it's surprisingly easy for them to obtain waterbending scrolls—

—and also the only person who knew about his waterbending before iroh was his mother who he accidentally bent in front of and who, immediately realizing her own "tainted" bloodline was the cause, swore zhouto to secrecy and made him promise to never use it—

—and so zhōto and iroh secretly practice waterbending below deck in their rooms, and they keep practicing with it until they feel they're "ready," and then—with the help of their now loyal-to-the-death-crew (they at some point came to the unanimous decision that zhōto is way better than ozai, and he's surprisingly not a spoilered brat—bc unlike original-zuko he already despises his father and consciously makes an effort to be different) who go along with some made up lie that zhōto and iroh both died—

maybe zhōto fell in artic water during a storm and iroh jumped in to save him against the captain's warnings and refused to return to safety until he found zhōto, but before he could a wave cracked zhōto's head against the boat and he went under and iroh dived and dived and dived into colder and colder water until he was so so cold and he couldn't hold his breath any longer but the surface was too far away and he was too tired from the cold in his bones to swim and with his body empty of its last bit of air he just—

sank.

and so with a cover in place, zhōto and iroh said a tearful goodbye to their deathly loyal crew and then set off to live their new lives.

then skip foward a few years and they run into the fucking avatar and friends and wait shit is that—

—not long into his banishment, just after zhōto confessed to iroh about his waterbending, they set sail for the southern water tribe, figuring that it would be a good start for their search for waterbending scrolls, since the north would be too much of a risk and they figure: there's no waterbenders in the southern tribe anyway not after what we did to them so it's not like they need the scrolls...besides, we were gunna give them back as soon as we're done with them so if any waterbender babies end up being born we'll have returned the scrolls before they're even old enough to need them—

—but alas, when they make port they are told by a very angry boy about zhōto's age—

(i'm aging him down a year or two bc shōta was only like 14 in bnha while zuko was 16 i think in atla, about one year older than sokka—so he's about 11-12 when this happens, and katara and sokka are 11 and 12 respectively)

—that the fire nation burned any scrolls they had, when they killed his mother—

(oof)

—and so, to the great surprise of all the villagers present, and all who hear about it after, they leave immediately without harming or threatening anyone, without even searching any of the (huts? igloos?) for potentially hidden scrolls. they just...leave.

and the scarred one—the one with the golden trim on his collar who the other men defer to as if he's in charge—

—which is ridiculous, he's so tiny, he can't be much older than sokka, how could he be their leader, shouldn't it be that old guy—

—actually thanks sokka for his assistance before apologizing for taking up his time, and then leaves. what the fuck—

—then cut to three years later and now that boy (sokka of the southern water tribe, son of the chief, he had introduced himself as) and his sister (katara of the southern water tribe, daughter of the chief) were apparently traveling with the AVATAR. and that girl, katara? she's a waterbender. a fucking waterbender.

what the fu—

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iamwhelmed · 7 years ago

Note

My friend, you can't just mention the activity club doing 'a trip kayaking' and not expect me to request it. Pls, I beg u. If it had maxaac too I would love u 4ever.

Wow, that ask came fast XD

As you wish, anon!

Preface: Whelmed has never actually been kayaking so, uh, information is probably inaccurate.

It was a swamp, and there wasn’t much else to say about it.

They’d split off into groups of two, per usual. Spender went with Day, Ed went with Isabel, and– once again, per usual– Isaac got stuck with Max.

Max, dear, sweet, irritating Max, who wouldn’t stop complaining about everything from the environment (which Isaac got… to an extent) to the wet paddles they rowed with. Isaac had one, and he’d taken hold of the other. For the past twenty minutes, they’d been rowing in circles. The rest of the club had long since faded into the distance, and Isaac was starting to grow weary.

“Max, would you please just row when I’m not rowing? Like you’re supposed to do?”

“Sorry, sorry, geez! It’s just hard to get into the swing of it, ya know?”

Isaac rolled his eyes. “Everyone else seemed to get a handle of it fine.”

Max glared at him under lidded eyes, tipped his cap. “Well I’m not everyone else, how about that?” Isaac sighed and Max went back to attempting to handle his paddle again. “’Sides, the others will realize we fell behind and come back for us eventually, right?”

“Yeah, if you don’t get us tipped over and devoured by crocodiles before that happens.”

“CROCODILES?” Max jumped, and Isaac had to leap forward and set hands on either of his shoulders to get him to sit still again. The boat rocked wildly for a moment, but Max settled down equally as fast. Their eyes met, and Isaac could practically feel the cocktail of concern and anger in the way he hissed. “There are crocodiles in here?”

“We’re in a nature reserve, Max! What did you think?”

“I don’t know, that no sane human being would ever intentionally climb an easily-tipped boat with the intent of rowing for seven miles overhead of nature’s most dangerous predator?”

Isaac feared that is he rolled his eyes anymore that they’d get stuck in the back of his head. “So you’re scared of crocodiles.”

“No dip I’m scared of crocodiles! I’m from the city! You think I run into scales and long sharp jaws all the time? No!” Max gestured sharply to Isaac. “And up until now, I didn’t think you did, either!”

“I’ll have to keep this conversation in mind next time we go swimming with the swamp creatures.”

Max grew pale. “That’s not… you’re messing with me. Mayview is weird, but it’s not that weird! That is not a thing!”

Isaac grinned and pulled away, suddenly acutely aware of how long his hands had been saddled on Max’s shoulders. He gripped his paddle and continued rowing. “How would you know? You’ve been here… hmm, all of a year? For all you know, we go here every class field trip.”

Max grabbed his paddle and stroked in unison. Much to Isaac’s surprise, they actually started moving. “Whatever. I would’ve heard of it by now.”

They continued on in silence for a few moments, Isaac rowing one way, Max rowing in tandem. They’d gotten half way along the swamp before either of them said another word.

“Quite staring at me.”

“Staring at you? Why would I be staring at you?”

“I don’t know! Maybe you’ve somehow discerned that I like the crocodiles more than you and plan to feed you to them?”

“You’re vegan– not evil.”

Isaac snorted and turned his head away. He and Max had gotten along reasonably well over the passed year, not as well as Isaac had always hoped they would, but Max was somebody he was slowly starting to trust. As much as he snarked, Max had a good heart. He’d grown attached to the team, and vice versa– though Isaac had a feeling he was slightly more attached than everyone else was. He chanced a look Max’s way, only to find that his gaze hadn’t moved. Inhaling sharply, he turned away again.

“I wasn’t staring at you.”

“Fine, fine, you weren’t staring at me, sorry.”

Max huffed and turned the other way, watching something over his shoulder. Isaac wasn’t sure his attention was focused on, well, much of anything. He sighed and turned his eyes to his lap.

He’d wanted to think Max was staring at him, but had he? Maybe he’d been imagining it. He thought he’d catch Max staring often enough, be it on missions or whatever this club trip was, but he’d known he’d get the response he’d gotten just then– he hadn’t been staring. So he was imagining it. But why? Isaac sighed.

The boat hit the land beside them, and the boat began to sway from side to side. Isaac yelped and reached down to clench either side of the kayak. Max was having far more trouble balancing, ironically. The boat was quickly losing balance, and if things didn’t straighten out soon, they’d tip. “Max, calm down!”

“I am calm!”

“Obviously!”

He reached out to Max again, aiming to set his hands on his shoulders like last time, but the boat was moving so frantically, so wildly, that he only fell forward. Max shrieked and they both toppled over, only barley catching themselves enough that the kayak stayed afloat. Isaac winced and looked around, glancing around, almost in disbelief that he hadn’t fallen face-first into the marsh.

It took him a moment longer to register that his arms had fallen over Max’s shoulders, and that his head was currently resting against his neckline. Gasping, he pulled away just far enough to look at Max, who was yet to move. He tried to pull one hand away, to steady himself as he climbed off of him, but one of Max’s hands caught his wrist. Isaac blinked and found himself nose-to-nose with him.

“Don’t move, yet. I’m not sure we’re stable.”

Isaac’s face flushed, cheeks burning as hot as the summer sun beating down on them. “W-What? M-Max don’t b-be ridiculous! We’re plenty st–” the kayak rocked again and Isaac chewed out the last word “–stable!”

“You were saying?”

The kayak rocked to and fro, and slowly the natural currents began to pull them along. It was still yet to settle, at least entirely, but he had to at least try to pull away. His pride couldn’t take it if Max thought he actually wanted to fall all over him. “H-hey… I’m gonna try to move now.”

Max nodded.

Slowly, Isaac pulled his other hand– the one Max wasn’t still holding– and pressed it against Max’s chest, maneuvering around until he could sit back on his knees. He came eye-to-eye with Max again and was momentarily surprised.

There was a line of red from one side of Max’s face to the other, lips thin, rubbing together between his teeth. It took Isaac a second to realize that he was blushing, too, maybe just as much. Slowly, he went to move his other hand, but Max’s stayed locked around it.

“Um, Max?”

“Yeah?”

“Can you, um…?”

He nodded to their joined hands, and Max pulled away like the touch suddenly burned him. “Wah! Uh, sorry.”

“It’s okay.”

Isaac could finally pull back, and cautiously bent backwards, bringing his rear back to sit where he’d been perched before. He cupped his hands in his lap and stared down at them, trying in vain to will away the heat in his cheeks. Max reached out and gripped his paddle again, and he took note to do the same thing.

“Sorry about that.”

“For falling on me?”

“Yeah.”

Max wouldn’t look at him. “It’s whatever.”

Isaac chewed on the inside of his cheek and looked over his shoulder– partly to see where they were going, but mostly because he wanted to look at anything but Max right then, and that made the most sense.

“Isaac?”

“Yeah?”

There was a brief pause, and Isaac’s heart thumped wildly against his chest, entire body freezing in sheer panic, full of anticipation at Max’s next words. Isaac gulped and tightened his grip on his paddles, pleading silently that Max wouldn’t ask him what he must have wanted to, what he must have been thinking because Isaac knew he’d been so obvious…!

“There isn’t really a place to swim in the swamp water, is there?”

Isaac just about fell overboard again.

#Paranatural #Isaac O'Connor #Maxwell Puckett #maxaac #imaax

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