#allegra being the only one that sees his moments of weakness??

[thirtecnth]

Benjamin took up the hand that gripped his arm and brought it quickly to his lips. “Yes.” He knew she could handle herself. She was like a partner to him. But he was a doctor and people were bound to be injured. If he was out there wondering if she was okay, he’d be completely distracted. “Allegra, I’m always coming home to you. I promise.” The screams were giving him chills. He could work well under pressure but this was otherworldly. Literally. “Would you mind giving me something for the nerves?” He muttered quietly. “Please?”

allegra gripped onto his arm, eye staring directly into his "ben, are you seriously asking me to leave you right now?" she knew he meant it in the most protective way but how could she leave after they had just witnessed whatever that thing was. this was the compromise that had been so adamant to get right. one asks and the other would listen. allegra let out a sigh in frustration "if i do this, you better come home in one piece or whatever that thing is will be the least of your worries."

[normal-piece-of-shit]

Congrats on the 500! Could you do a Daminette 2 were they’ve been rivals but that just how Damian dealt with his crush. Now worried if you don’t want to! Thank you have a good day!

Thanks! ╰(*´︶`*)╯

Also, how dare you. How dare you make me like this prompt so much that I end up writing almost 2000 words.

Oh, and I may have changed the dialogue a bit to fit the story? And I also may have lost inspiration towards the end? Sorry!

Hope you enjoy!

Whispers flew around the school gym grounds. Even more so than the usual. Something about a certain cinnamon roll that could light up a whole room? Apparently that cinnamon roll would be with their class for a whole day?

Damian was sure that the Gothamites had finally reached the borders of insanity. Who knew how they survived this far with maniacs on the run every other month?

A cinnamon roll attending their class? And it lighting a room? Within Gotham of all places? Pah! He would have laughed if he hadn't been opposed to the idea of laughing!

His thoughts came to a halt as he heard a small, yet intriguing whisper.

“It's the cinnamon roll.” The person had whispered.

In an instant, hushed silence fell upon his class and heads turned to find the ‘cinnamon roll’. Damian would deny that he had been a part of them in this activity.

There. At the entrance. The sight of the famous ‘cinnamon roll’ left him baffled.

It-It was a person?! And cinnamon roll was used in a metaphorical sense?! The Gothamites still hadn't bordered insanity?! She really did light up a room?!

“DODGEBALL! WE'RE PLAYING DODGEBALL!”

We were what?

He'd spaced out?! He, Damian Wayne, had spaced out?! What had Gotham come to?

“DAMIAN’S THE LEADER OF TEAM 1!”

What?! Just how long had he spaced out?!

He didn't get to learn who the second team's leader was- he wouldn't have cared either way. Soon, he'd been pushed forward to select his teammates.

This could do. His eyes surveyed the crowd, looking for the best. His contemplative gaze rested on the ‘Cinnamon Roll’. She held his gaze fiercely. Hm. The Roll had guts, he’d admit. But no, she wouldn't do well. Too small and fragile.

He gave a small, dismissive shake of the head. The Roll’s eyes narrowed and burned with silent rage, as though she could read his thoughts.

He ignored her, of course.

A few minutes was all they needed. The teams had been formed. Team B were merely puny bugs compared to Team A. All of them seemed to realise that as well.

Well, all but one. The Roll’s glare pierced him no matter where he went. She seemed to be confident in her team's success.

He held back a smirk. The Roll had no idea just what she was getting herself in.

**

Marinette's teammates shuffled around, uneasy. Uneasy. Almost as if they had already been defeated. That wouldn't do!

No!

She fully intended to destroy that green-eyed, heartless, monster's whole career! And enjoy it at that!

“Listen up, you good for everything folks!” They turned to her. “Don't you despise feeling weak? Don't you want to feel the triumph that comes along when you defeat those that look down on you?!”

Her team looked at each other uncertainly. But not all! Some had contemplative looks. She was getting somewhere with this!

“Do you forget how Royalty should carry themselves?! Rise! I shall lead you to victory! The war shall end with their beheading!”

There was a pause.

“I-” Marinette looked at them nervously. “I was just kidding, of course.” Suspicious glances were thrown her way.

Ignoring the glances, she pointed at one of her teammates.

“You. Felix, Adrien’s cousin who's here for some reason.” She said with narrowed eyes. He grumbled under his breath. “I know you've got some tricks up your sleeve, use them!”

She turned to her other two teammates, one a blonde, long braided female and the other a brunette Male.

“You two, Allegra and Claude.” They stood straight. “You've got charm, distract them with it!” They gave a salute, hiding mischievous smiles.

“Allan! We need your music, make it epic, it'll catch them off guard! Felix will help you do it without getting caught.”

And just like that, she’d finished planning their victory. They wouldn't mind if she laughed an evil laugh would they?

**

One.

There was only one player left in both teams. Within one minute. AND THAT EPIC BACKGROUND MUSIC KEPT PLAYING.

Damian looked at the tiny Roll. The tiny Roll that had used her teammates unrelated to sports characteristics to defeat almost all of his team.

This was no longer about losing. He knew now. It was war. He'd set off the bomb and now he'd have to turn it off.

The gym grounds were dealt silent. Damian moved. The Roll moved.

The bell rang.

Groans flew from all directions. The Roll came up to him and held out a hand, a pleasant smile that hid silent threats on her face.

“Good game.” She said. “Never think of me as tiny ever again.” She whispered, her threat being loud and clear. He hesitantly shook her hand before giving her a glare.

“Good game.” He grit out. “Your hand is just as tiny as you.” He took his leave.

And as he did so, he'd established one certain thing. They were now, official rivals in all things.

**

Rivals for a week. That's how long the rivalry lasted.

Yes, Damian did notice their rivalry dissolving gradually. The two of them were seeing less of each other by the day and the dates and sharp jabs thrown were rare. The only thing that caught him off guard, were the new...emotions that came with.

He...He missed their old rivalry. And her sharp jabs. And her smug smirks. And how her tiny nose scrunched when she'd lose. And how her eyes would just shine- so bright when she'd win. And-

He really had to get rid of this new feeling.

Soon.

“-And Marinette will be paired with Damian-” He slammed his head against the desk. The world really was out to get him.

**

Paired with the demon. Paired with the demon. Paired with the demon. The kind of cute demon. Pairedwiththekindofcutedemon

Wait. No.

Not cute.

Evil.

Get your morals together, Marinette! He is not cute! He called you tiny! He's evil incarnate!

Well, on the bright side, she did miss his intolerable company. With no one to challenge and bring shame upon for losing, her days seemed...boring .

She even missed his remarks of her height! That said a lot.

Now that she thought about it, she even missed his annoying scowl! And how his eyes would twinkle with triumph and his adorable glare!

“We’re going to your place for this project, Tiny Roll.”

She'd even started hallucinating his presence!

The illusion Damian brought up his hand and-

Hit her head lightly.

Oh. It was real.

**

Damian stood outside the apartment that Tiny Roll had told him to come to.

His hands hovered above the door bell. Why was hesitating? Why wasn't he ringing the bell?

The door opened, revealing a sleepy Marinette.

“Did it have to be at this time of the hour?” She asked the stunned Damian.

“Its 1 pm.” He stated, eyes narrowing. “How did you know I was out here?”

“1 pm is too early during weekends.” She yawned. “Also, I could sense your hate for me from a mile away. You've been talking out loud.” She gestured for him to enter. He moved inside, not a tiny bit ready for what he saw.

Pink.

The whole place was pink. Ok, maybe not entirely. There were white and black too, but so much pink.

“Eh, your eyes will get used to it.”

He turned towards her, for a moment forgetting her presence while he had been lost in the pink.

“I’m making coffee, want some?” She didn't stay for an answer, leaving immediately.

He sat on the sofa. Surrounded with the pink walls. He shuddered at the pink sight.

**

“You've been quiet.” Marinette said, sounding accusing. “What are you planning?”

He stared at her, contemplating how to explain what he was secretly planning, probably. She raised an eyebrow.

“...I don't hate you.”

Wait, what?

“I think.”

There it was!

She rolled her eyes. Why had that given her momentary relief? “You hesitated. For about 10 minutes too!” She patted his head, “Of course you hate me!”

“I don't hate you!”

“You do!”

“No, I don't!”

They held each others gaze, both too stubborn to back down.

“Prove it.” She said softly. “Prove you don't hate me.”

He stiffened. A contemplative silence fell upon them.

What was taking him so long? He'd been so sure just a second ago! She wanted him to say something! She didn't want to be left alone with her thoughts. Not now. Not when the answer was so obvious. Not when it...hurt so much.

“There's no way I’d hate you.” He said, stepping closer. “No. If I'd hated you, I'd have hated the sight of your smile.” He stopped right in front of her.

Why was her heart beating so fast?

“I'd have hated how your eyes would always shine.”

When did he notice such things? Why did he notice such things?

“I’d have hated seeing you every day.”

And just why did his words make her happy?

“Prove it, you said?” He leaned closer, their faces inches apart, as he brushed aside stray strands of her hair. “I never did back down from your challenges.” He murmured before kissing her-

Cheek.

Oh god. He kissed her cheek. And she let him!

She pushed him away, desperately trying to hide her blush.

“JUST WHO GAVE YOU THE RIGHT TO DO THAT?” And who gave you the right to enjoy what he did?

“Well,” He started, having the decency to sound embarrassed. “You did tell me to ‘Prove it’?”

His eyes narrowed.

“Wait. Are you blush-” She didn't let him complete his sentence. She pulled him closer and placed a kiss on his cheek.

“THERE! NOW WE'RE EVEN!”

Both of them blushed so red, you could basically call them tomatoes.

“We...still have to do our project.” She said, her voice tiny.

“Oh. ThE pRojeCt. YeS.” He responded, his voice changing tones every letter. He coughed. “Let's get back to that.”

She nodded, unconsciously noticing that he was relatively small in height.

She hid a grin. Maybe him proving her wrong did have perks other than making her melt into a puddle.

[spooky-z]

College Françoise Dupont’s talent show [5/5]

• 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 4.1 • 5 • 5.1 •

Warning: suicide mention at the final

@ozmav @maribat-archive

Damian was not one bit happy with the wistful eyes of Adrien for Marinette.

Since the confrontation with the class, Wayne noticed that the blonde did not take the eyes of his bride. Perhaps he was not even blinking. He could barely see the boy breathing!

“Damian, control your temper.” Tim nudged him. “Looks like you’re going to jump the golden boy’s neck anytime.”

They were sitting in the auditorium, lights on, people searching their seats. The whole family sitting in the third row of the main set of chairs, occupying the entire row.

The order being from the far left starting with Alfred, Bruce, Dick, Kori, Jason, Tim, Damian, Sabine, Tom, Chloe, Kagami, Allan, Allegra and Claude.

Jagged and Penny had been taken into the cabin, accompanied by Chloe’s parents and Kagami’s mother.

Adrien and the rest of the class, sitting in the second row. The blonde standing right in front of him, not disguising the fact that he was facing Marinette, who was on stage talking quietly with Felix and the director.

“If he doesn’t stop eating her with his eyes, I’ll…” and clenched his fist, imagining Agreste’s head in the middle of it.

Sabine, who had heard the exchange, laughed softly. Her son-in-law was so cute.

“Honey, it’s like we say: they may look, but they can’t have it,” she says, her hand on Damian’s fist. “My daughter looks beautiful. If no one looked at her twice, I would have been offended on her behalf.”

He bites his lip in conflict, but seems to decide that his mother-in-law was right and looked away from the blonde, preferring the sight of his angel.

“Good evening everyone.” The director says in the microphone, Marinette and Felix at his right side, microphones in their hands. “Today we mark the end of the talent week and also the end of the semester.” He pauses with the sound of the applause “this week was indeed amazing. Many talents discovered; many laughs obtained. It was wonderful.“

The audience shouts in agreement. Damian frowns with the particularly high-pitched scream in his ear and glances quickly at Tim.

“Today, as you can see, I have two guests with me” the director says again “Marinette Dupain-Cheng-”

“Hello!” Marinette sings into the microphone, a sweet smile on her face.

“-And Felix Aguillard.” Felix bows to the audience “Our first graders of the year.” More applause.

At the sound of the applause, Damian was able to hear a loud "What ?!” coming from the row in front of him, but could not recognize the voice because of the noise.

“It’s been a year since they’ve been studying at both Dupont and a prestigious university.” General choke “Marinette at ESMOD and Felix at INSEAD-”

“WHAT?!” Lila shouts in surprise, cutting off the director. She sits up quickly when she realizes that she has lost control in front of everyone. “Sorry, I was just surprised.”

Chloe scoffs before shouting to the stage “THAT’S MY GIRL!”

Marinette laughs “And Fe? He’s your boy too, isn’t he?” Teases into the microphone.

Felix looks at her, the pained expression on his face.

Chloe scowls at them and screams once again, “I’m sorry, but I’m SUPER GAY.” And the audience laughs out loud at the antics. The director looks unsure of what to do.

“Ahem,” he catches everyone’s attention, the laughter calming down. “Continuing what I was saying- Today marks their last high school day, so nothing fairer than them being our special guests of the night. The two will open for today’s participants, but they will not be part of the competition.” And ends, waving to the two talk something before they begin.

Felix shakes his head, saying he doesn’t want to say anything and follows him off the stage, but Marinette takes the lead, microphone tight in her hands.

“Good evening everyone.” She says, “Like Principal Damocles said, my name is Marinette. Marinette Dupain-Cheng and I want a little of your time.” Her eyes gauge each of the audience, not stopping at anyone for long.

“Today has been a particularly special day for me.” It starts “But I’ll start with last month. Last month I was able to go a step further in my career. I received an undeniable proposal and now my things must be arriving at Gotham, my old and new residence.” She notices some violent reactions in the ranks of her former class. Alya. “Today… today I was proposed by the man I love. Today I have friends supporting me, I have my family by my side, I’m having you all now.” Her slightly wet eyes, Damian notes, wanting more than anything to be by her side right now.

“But it wasn’t always like that.” His tone a little bitter. “There was a time, like, about three years ago, that I had people in my life that I thought were there to support me. To be my friends. To support me when I’m not well…” she sighs “But I was wrong. So wrong.”

“I came to such a low point, so dark, that time has stopped. Like this. I had lost my will, my motivation. I was alive but not living.” Sabine, who had been holding back tears, could no longer and cried silently “But hey! This is not a sad story. It’s not because I found good people. Great friends. A great boyfriend. It was not easy at first. There have been relapses. Days I wanted to do nothing more than sleep and sleep. But I did it.” She winked at Lila, who seemed to have eaten something bad.

“I’m reaching my goals. Saying goodbye to most of you, see you soon to others and a ‘I hope I never have to see you again’ for the ones left.” She says sweet, so sweet that her teeth hurt.

“It was thinking about this past, this dark spot of my life, that I wrote a song … Yeah! I know! You were expecting a fashion show, but here I am, ready to sing.” Jokes with the general surprise.

She looks at the side edge of the stage. Luka was waiting for the signal to be able to enter. She blinks at him and he smiles, the guitar positioned in his hands.

“To sing this song I would need support, so a friend volunteered for this role.” She turns to the audience. “Please, a round of applause for Luka Couffaine, my best friend.”

///

Alya was… She didn’t know how she was feeling at that moment.

She had stopped trying to understand what had been going on since Chloe had appeared with Kagami two nights ago to pick up Marinette at the theater.

That was so frustrating! How, when … The three had become friends. How Marintte could forgive Chloe. When Marinette had overcome her rivalries with Kagami.

Alya didn’t understand. Alya didn’t know.

Alya didn’t remember when it was the last time she’d talked to Marinette. Her best friend.

But she remembered the last time she’d screamed at the brunette about being mean. About how after so many years, she still hasn’t gotten over her jealousy of Lila. How Adrien would never love her if she continued this behavior.

She remembered the teary blueberries, the flushed cheeks (of shame or anger she didn’t know) and the weak voice asking to leave her alone.

But it wasn’t her fault! She just wanted the brunette to grow up, take her head off the Adrien world, and live. Give Lila a chance.

What did not happen. Marinette just walked away.

She would come to school, attend classes, and then disappear. No one knew where she was going at breaks. During classes, she hardly interacted with others.

Just Chloe.

And Alya still couldn’t understand. Didn’t understand what Marinette was saying on that stage. Didn’t know what she was talking about. She was trying. Really. But it was all in vain to see Luka Couffaine come on stage.

His slightly longer, unruly hair combed anyway, torn black jeans, shiny boots, and a black T-shirt under a mossy green leather jacket. A guitar in his arms.

His eyes wrapped in a thick layer of khol.

He bent slightly toward Marinette’s microphone, a polite smile on his lips.

“Good night, Dupont. I’m Luka and I’m here today to help Minette in one or two songs.” He says “God knows how bad she is with the guitar.” He laughs when Marinette jokes him playfully.

She takes his microphone and says again "I think we should start, what do you think ?!”

A projector screen descends behind them and they begin.

No, I think I’ll stay in tonight

Skip the conversations and the “Oh, I’m fines”

No, I’m no stranger to surprise

This paper town has let me down too many times

And, man. She was good.

Alya was surprised, scared even.

Why do I even try? Give me a reason why

I thought that I could trust you, never mind

Why all the switching sides? Where do I draw the line?

I guess I’m too naive to read the signs

Adrien shifted uncomfortably beside Nino. His gravelly face.

He was sure the music was for them, the class.

For him.

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

The screen behind them began to pass photos.

Photos of Marinette that no one in the class had ever seen before.

All they ever do is let me down

Every time I let somebody in

The first photo to appear contained Luka and Marinette hugging each other. Her arms around his neck, their cheeks glued together and his arms around her waist.

The unknown background landscapes. The sun shining bright.

Luka was wearing only a black T-shirt, his hair a mess and the tongue sticking out. Marinette in a black cropped with blue accents, her hair in a bun, eyes closed and a huge smile.

She looked so happy.

Adrien cringed.

Then I find out what they’re all about

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

In the next picture, Chloe and the brunette were sleeping together on a futon, probably in Mari’s room.

Chloe wearing Ladybug pajamas being the small spoon and Marinette Abeille being the big spoon.

Alya tasted the blood.

Wonder where they’re all hidin’ out

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

Gotta get up out of this town

In the third photo, Marinette was sitting on Kagami’s lap while they were taking selfies. The two making funny faces.

Kagami’s hands steady around Marinette.

And that was a shock to Nino.

The ice queen being funny and protective of someone.

Oh, oh

Oh, ah

A picture of the four of them together at a sleepover in what looked like Chloe’s room. Luka had a face mask, Chloe’s hair stuck in bobs, Kagami painting her nails, and Marinette reading a fashion magazine.

All of them on the bedroom floor, sweets and snacks spread and a television on in a black and white film.

The photo was taken by a fifth unknown person.

I stay up, talkin’ to the moon

Been feelin’ so alone in every crowded room

Can’t help but feel like something’s wrong, yeah

'Cause the place I’m livin’ in just doesn’t feel like home

This time it was a video of Marinette in what looked like a kitchen. A huge kitchen. Wearing a black shirt too big to be hers, probably making breakfast.

She had a spatula in her hand, distracted, using it as a microphone while singing something.

The man who had arrived with Bruce Wayne, the one with the black and white hair, joins her singing. They start dancing like crazy around the kitchen.

The video ends with him slipping and falling, Marinette laughing out loud before falling too.

It didn’t even last 20 seconds.

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

All they ever do is let me down

Every time I let somebody in

Then I find out what they’re all about

Another video came, this time Marinette is sitting on the grass, surrounded by puppies. Two Great Dane resting their heads on her lap while she pats them.

Damian Wayne joins her and she rests against him.

He looks at the person filming and the filming quickly ends.

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

Wonder where they’re all hidin’ out

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

Gotta get up out of this town

The next picture had Marinette in a gym, leggings, black top, hair in a ponytail.

Another of the men who came in with Bruce Wayne, on her shoulders like a sack of potatoes.

She was all skinny muscle.

Nino heard Adrien choke and cough.

I just wanna talk about nothin’

With somebody that means somethin’

Spell the names of all our dreams and demons

For the times that I don’t understand

Marinette this time was in the same kitchen (video), an old man beside her watching her beat the dough in the bowl.

The crowded bench with Damian, Bruce and the other three men, Chloe, Kagami, Luka and… Félix?!

Tell me what’s the point of a moon like this

When I’m alone again

Can I run away to somewhere beautiful

Where nobody knows my name?

There was a joint gagging of class with the pool photo.

Damian felt jealous boil again.

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

All they ever do is let me down

I let somebody in

But I find out what they’re all about

The next photo had Jagged Stone, Penny Rolling, Clara Nightingale, Prince Ali, and XY at a picnic. All dressed informally, looking comfortable, smiling at Marinette who was playing with Fang in the background.

And that’s how Ms. Bustier’s class seemed to remember that Jagged didn’t have a cat but a crocodile.

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

All they ever do is let me down

I’m just lookin’ for some real friends

Gotta get up out of this town, yeah

The last picture was of everyone together.

Dupain-Cheng, Waynes, Chloe, Kagami, Luka, Felix, Claude, Allegra, Allan, Jagged, Penny, Clara, Ali, XY. Even Fang and the Great Danes.

Everyone was looking at the camera, smiling excitedly. Marinette in Damian’s arms and a banner with “Joyeux anniversaire, Marinette” in the background.

Oh, oh

Oh, ah

Marinette and Luka ended the song’s last chord when a video, this time with sound, played on the big screen.

“… Let me hear you say, this shit is bananas, B-A-N-A-N-A-S!”

Marinette turns horrified to the big screen.

“This shit is bananas, B-A-N-A-N-A-S!” Marinette on the big screen screams along with the music.

The girl throws her arms up, jumping on the bed. The Batman themed pajamas.

“Oh my god, Minette…” the recording person laughs softly so the girl doesn’t hear.

Marinette continues to scream the lyrics, unaware that she is being recorded, until the recording person starts laughing out loud and she gets scared.

“… Jason?” She has a confused expression on her face until she notices the camera and her face becomes homicidal. “Were you recording…?”

The man seems to be scared because the laughter soon dies.

“… No?” he tries.

“Really? So, you don’t mind me taking a look at your phone, do you?” She gets off the bed and goes toward him.

“… Listen, I think Alfred is calling me. Bye!” He runs from her, but doesn’t finish recording.

With him running, the phone only films the confused shapes of the house, but everyone is still able to hear Marinette running after him.

“BACK HERE TODD!”

"NOT! I DON’T WANT TO DIE AGAIN!”

Shooting continues for another two seconds and then ends abruptly.

Luka was laughing openly on stage, Marinette still with her back to the audience, blushing embarrassed and the audience laughing.

And that was how the last night of the Talent Show began.

///

Lila was waiting for her at the backstage.

Marinette knew that an hour would have to face the girl, but did not think she would attack in such an open and public place.

But objectively, this was the only chance she had, since Marinette was leaving Paris that night.

“Should I congratulate you on the engagement, Dupain-Cheng? Or should we talk about your poor attempt to come out on top?” Lila scoffs, the smugness on her face. “Because it didn’t work. They are still eating in the palm of my hand.”

Marinette sighs already tired.

"What do you want, Lila?”

“I just came to brag. I like to throw salt on the wound.”

“That’s good! Because I like it too.” Marinette says, her tone becoming sharp. “Do you really think I would go away and do nothing to unmask you, Lila Rossi?” Lila stiffens the smile. “Or rather, Volpina, the accomplice of Hawkmoth.”

The girl steps back as Marinette approaches.

"What are you talking about?” She countered. “Are you going crazy?”

“Crazy? I? No.” Marinette laughs “I just think it’s funny that you think there would be no consequences helping a terrorist. And no use denying, I know you have been helping Hawkmoth and Mayura all these years. Your best friend, Ladybug, told me.”

The two do not notice Adrien, Nino and Alya coming. Adrien, noticing the situation, prevents Alya from trying to help Lila and forces them both to hear the conversation hidden behind some wood panels.

“… So, what if I helped Hawkmoth?” They hear Lila say. Adrien feels his blood run cold. “I was a minor. A child. You have nothing against me.”

There is a break and Marinette respond.

“That’s where you’re wrong Lila. Gabriel Agreste may have been arrested and refused to speak, but the evidence, Lila, speaks for itself.” Her firm voice “One year, Lila. A year gathering evidence against you and look, I was surprised to learn that I wasn’t the only person you emotionally abused.”

“… What?” Lila whispers looking scared.

“Emilia Shawn’s suicide.” Marinette’s voice comes out like lightning. “Don’t you remember her, Lila? The girl you bullied so much she couldn’t stand and threw herself off the roof of your school in Italy?” Alya was crying on Nino’s shoulder.

“No problem you don’t remember Emilia!” Marinette says very cheerfully “As long as you remember Cassandra. Or Phillip. Marie… Rico.”

“How do you… how do you know those names?” Lila shouts.

“Because unlike you and our lovely classmates, Lila, families didn’t believe their children were abusive monsters and committed suicide because they were sorry.”

There are footsteps, Adrien gets up enough to see what was going on and recognizes Agent Raincomprix with the National Police, surrounding Marinette and Lila.

Damian Wayne appears along with Bruce Wayne alongside Marinette.

“You cannot do that! I was just a child! Children make mistakes!” Lila begins to freak out when she realizes the situation.

“No, Lila. This is murder and terrorism. And you will pay for what you did.” Marinette says.

Damian hugs the brunette in support and she squeezes his arms in thanks.

"Lila Aloisi Rossi, you are arrested for accomplice of murder and terrorism.” The Raincomprix agent says as he holds Lila in handcuffs “You have the right to remain silent. Whatever you say can and will be used against you.”

"What? NO! LET ME GO!” Lila shouts, going crazy as she struggles.

The police soon have to help the agent contain her and before they leave, he turns to Marinette and the Waynes.

“Bruce Wayne, Marinette. Thanks for your help.” He nods. “It’s up to us now.” And leaves.

“Thank you mr. Raincomprix.” Marinette says.

"I’ll go with you guys,” Bruce says and joins the agents.

Meanwhile, Lila was still screaming and kicking through the theater corridors, people leaving to find out what was going on.

Ms. Bustier’s whole class watching.

“YOU HAVE TO UNLEASH ME! I HAVE DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY!” She shouted.

Bruce Wayne, who was right behind the National Police surrounding Lila, looked smug when he spoke.

“Your country has withdrawn your immunity after we have presented the evidence of your crimes, Lila Rossi.” Lila widened her eyes, the panic evident. “You will face justice in full rights.”

Damian believes that all of Paris was able to hear the scream that the Italian gave.

He turned the woman in his arms, needing to look her in the eye.

“It’s over, angel.” He whispers to her, noticing the tear in her eyes.

Marinette sighs, relaxing against him.

“It’s over, Dami. Ended.“

[tag list]

@mystery-5-5 @spicybelladonna @iglowinggemma28 @crazylittlemunchkin@lunaraquaenby @maude-zarella @mooshoon @kuroko26@littleredrobinhoodlum @fanboy7794 @shadowberrybinch @k-rena-k@captainmac6 @clumsy-owl-4178  @tazanna-blythe @vixen-uchiha @zebrabaker @chloe-bourgeois-is-big-gay @artxyra @ellerahs @minightrose@redscarlet95 @soaringowlsstuff @xxkelsey39

[tommysparker]

Black & White: Prologue [QOH!Reader x Angel!Tom Holland]

Ayyy guess who’s back a few days later with a whole new series in tow :) This au is gonna be a little different to the other ones on this site, so read the disclaimer down below. 

Disclaimer: I am not religious so I have no real idea how any of this works, I just like the concept. Also I was raised Hindu, so I’ve decided to do a mix of Hinduism and the standard Christianity concept for this fic. I really hope you enjoy this! 

Warnings: None? (yet) incorrect representation of religion (like I said, I’m not religious I just like the concept.)

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“Well well, aren’t you a pretty thing?” a sultry voice whispered in his ear. 

Tom involuntarily shivered, not wanting to show any weakness but failing miserably. In truth, he was terrified. Being sent by the Lord to talk to the devil was not on his bucket list, but he knew he was the only angel fit for the job. He spent his whole life on earth praising the heavens, and entering the afterlife and being welcomed with open wings was a true blessing he had earned.  

He would not disappoint. 

He will not give in. 

Lord have mercy on my soul…

“He can’t hear you y’know,” the same voice echoed in his mind. “Down here, you’re all mine. Not even Brahma can help you now. So, tell me angel wings, what sins have you committed for God to send his most loyal devotee to my land?”

“Y-Your words speak of nonsense,” Tom faltered, hating himself for stuttering. “I’ve come by the Lord’s orders to suggest you stop tormenting Earth’s inhabitants at once.” 

A small eerie chuckle bounced off the castle walls and reflected into his ears. He didn’t risk raising his head, not yet. For to look into her eyes, those dark black eyes he’s heard and read many stories of, is thought to be a sin alone worth being banished from the Heavens.  

Some say the moment you look into her eyes, you’re a slave to her will. Others gossip over how you’ll be cursed for all eternity, though they sound both the same.  

“Well then, suggest away.” She was amused by this, the tone was evident. 

Tom didn’t know how to respond, searching his brain for words but coming up short. How could this...this thing have such an affect on him? Dear God--

“I told you, dear, you’re in my world now, not your world. I am the one in control here. I’m the almighty. Your dearest God can’t help you now, and he was well aware of that when he sent you here.” Her words were strong, bold-spoken, with meaning and intention. She wanted to make sure this white snowflake knew exactly what he signed up for when he agreed to pay her a little visit. 

“God hears all!” Tom shouted, a small part of him praying his raised vocals would attract the attention of someone, anyone up above. He never should have agreed to do this alone. 

“You’re right, you shouldn’t have,” the smile could be heard in her voice. “Now, I don’t have all night. I’m a busy woman as you know. Say what you must before I dismiss you to my demons.”

Tom dared to look up, eyes focusing on anything but those black-hole pupils. His gaze fell upon the broad, stretched out red and black wings, whose tips fluttered ever so slightly creating the small draft that made the hair on his arms rise. The sharp scales that glistened from the fire's reflection ran all the way behind her back, connecting to her figure. The shape resembled that of a dragon, and for a brief second he wondered if the she-devil could be a descendant of such a creature.

Curled horns sprouting from the crown of their head, wings with power to blow houses over with a single flap, and the fiery look in her eyes when he gazed into them-- wait what?!

In a single blink, she stood towering over him, black eyes with a small hint of white stared back at him, barging into his soul. He fought, did everything in his power to look away but his attempts proved useless. All he could do was stare into the abyss, feeling his grip on reality slowly fall as he got lost in her eyes. There was only black, and endless dark void- until it wasn’t. 

Another blink, Tom was thrown backwards. He fell on his back, gasping for air as if he had nearly been drowned. He rubbed at his eyes harshly, reciting every prayer he’d learned in a desperate attempt to rid whatever evil spell she had placed on him. It was only when he heard a small whimper that he froze. 

He slowly pried his hands away from his eyes, gaze darting in the direction the sound came from. Everything happened so fast his head was spinning, but he managed to make out a black figure, curled up with their wings wrapped around them protectively. 

Tom stood and took a wobbly step towards the person before he suddenly remembered where he was, and exactly who was sitting in front of him.  

Despite that, a small voice in the back of his head told him to make sure she was okay. Demon or not, as an angel he had a duty to take care of people, may God forgive him if he had done wrong by helping a lost soul. 

“Are you alright?” He asked quietly, taking another step, despite his mind telling him to stay as far away as possible. 

The figure rose, gracefully, wings unraveling like a blooming flower. She stood tall, a slight jerk in her hip as her hands gripped her waist. Her hair lit into a blend of red, yet maintained its natural shape. The flames danced along her back, falling over her shoulders, illuminating the structure of her face. Jaw clenched, tongue in cheek, and those eyes, those damned eyes…

Had he known his fate was sealed the moment he looked up. 

“Are you just going to stand there and look pretty?” She quipped, dark written all over her facial expression. “You, my sweet angel, just made the biggest mistake of your afterlife coming here. Now, you will never see the light of your grace again. You’re mine now, and I don’t share.”

All traces of the figure he saw moments ago were gone, replaced by an evil presence that knew nothing of mercy. 

Before he could react, two hands gripped his arms, pulling them back while a rope wrapped around his white feathered wings. Tom cried out, trying to fight but fell to no avail. The material trapping his wings felt as if they were burning him with sins, causing a silent scream to be ripped from his throat. 

“What should we do with him, your majesty?”

“Take him to the chambers. I want no harm to come to this one, got it? If you pluck a hair on his head, if I find a single feather missing from his wings I will personally throw you into the river of lost souls. Do you understand?”

No response. 

“DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!” 

“Y-Yes, Rani.”

Little late for that, Tom wanted to say. Unfortunately, he never got the chance. 

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And there you are! If you liked this please let me know so I’ll actually have the motivation to write more. 

Feedback is always welcome! 

B&W Taglist: @rebekkah4766 @greenorangevioletgrass @allegra-writes @soraitmnt @worldoftom @farfromparker @averyfosterthoughts @parkerpeter24 @angel-spidey @naztheapprentice

[tomsrebeleyebrow]

Finesse | tom holland x fem!reader

Summary: Since you started dating, Tom wanted to show you off to the entire world but had to convince you first. But after, it became so natural it was shockingly beautiful. He was satisfied and proud. So proud of you because you’re his. Based on the song ‘Finesse’ by Bruno Mars.

Pairing: Tom Holland x Fem!Reader

Warnings: mainly fluff, also short angsty moments (lack of self-confidence) and the word “bastards” said once

Word Count: 949

A/N: BOOM💥 Spidey is officially back in the MCU, everybody is happy so let’s celebrate with my second imagine!! Hope you will like it! ✨

masterlist

When Tom glanced at (Y/N) the first time, he remained speechless by such beauty emanating from the divine creature in front of him. She’s the one, he thought. A beauté fatale that quickly became his.

After two years of shared life away from prying eyes and cameras, Tom decided it was finally the right time to share the news of them being together. He wanted to show you to the entire world the person that was making him happy, lighting up his days and supporting him regardless of the situation.

At first (Y/N) wasn’t really sure about this decision. Oppressive cameras had never been her thing and as being a simple Mrs. Average, she felt even less capable to handle all the hurtful and hate comments she may (for sure) receive from any mean people. She was so reserved, kind of an introvert actually, and this was hiding a huge fragility. Definitely her weakness. And nobody needed to know about that. So poor (Y/N) couldn’t dare to share her fears and doubts with her boyfriend, him that was shining of pure confidence. Instead, she preferred dropping simple “don’t worry about me” or “it’s your moment of glory, enjoy it” as bad excuses. She just couldn’t do it. But what encouraged Tom’s choice even more, that day, was a “you honestly don’t need me to shine” so full of despair that she wanted – and tried – to conceal as much as she could. She obviously failed at it.

“You can’t imagine how wrong you are, darling.”

At that instant, Tom promised himself to prove to his gorgeous (Y/N) how much she was mistaken from the start. And surely he was well determined to make up for the lost time.

Movies premieres, promotion tours, bunch of interviews on TV or lives on radio, making appearances at conventions and talk shows or whatever he forgot, Tom brought (Y/N) everywhere with him. She was like his shadow. Even when her gorgeous face was not showing on camera, she was backstage but still visible to Tom, always by his side. And when anyone (finally) asked her boyfriend questions about them being together, oh man, no one could stop the British boy. If he could write a never-ending poem about you, this impulsive boy would because he loved you 3000.

“What can I say, we’re basically perfect together” was his favorite conclusion for each speech about you. That embarrassed you at an infinite level but at the same time, you felt your heart shiver with a delicious and warm feeling called love.

Ooh, don’t we look good together? There’s a reason why they watch all night long

Red carpets were the most complicated for (Y/N), only because it was impossible to hide or flee. Avoiding this step was an impossible mission. All eyes were aimed on her and Tom, both their names screamed from anywhere by crazy paparazzi, greedy to get the best shot. But Tom was oh so proud to show you off next to him. Finally. He could now reveals to all possible existing universes the goddess that was sharing his life and making everything around him even more perfect since day one.

Yeah, I know we’ll turn heads forever So tonight I’m gonna show you off

Tom was feeling more handsome and more powerful with his loved (Y/N). His natural charisma was impossible to feel indifferent about and that brat knew it well but when she was there, Tom wanted no more but to everyone to look at her. And only her.

When I’m walkin' with you I watch the whole room change Baby, that’s what you do No my baby don’t play

See this perfection next to me? Yeah? She’s mine by the way, he thought so hard that a smirk made its way to his face. And who could say the opposite? (Y/N) was so a natural she didn’t realise it, and that was what made Tom so crazy about her (sexual way included).

Blame it on my confidence Oh, blame it on your measurements Shut that shit down on sight That’s right

(Y/N), an angel face with a luscious body, almost cutely provocative, the whole brighten up with an innocent smile that could awake every men primal instinct. But Tom didn’t let this pass. Back off, bastards. In fact, he could easily ease those disgusting animals in heat by demonstrating whom she belonged to. His hands didn’t leave her anymore. He had to touch her, he needed to press his body with hers. This body is mine. But he was right that, together, you were fucking gorgeous to death.

We out here drippin' in finesse It don’t make no sense

This was all beyond understanding for (Y/N). At least in the beginning because after, it was almost a routine and she started to like it too.

Out here drippin' in finesse You know it, you know it

Tom made her feel beautiful. She felt so powerful, a feeling she never had before. Invincible was the word. In the end, (Y/N) got used to it since she didn’t refuse next Tom’s offers. They became more than lovebirds: they were like two masterpieces that, once reunited, completed each other by an almost inhuman finesse.

We out here drippin' in finesse It don’t make no sense Out here drippin' in finesse

“Told ya we were more than perfect together, sweetheart.”

You know it, you know it

🏷 Permanent tag list & mutuals 💖 (get notified)

@allegra-writes @tom-holland-is-spiderman @detroitbydark @blissfulparker @farfromhaz @xxtomxo @worldoftom @charismas-world  @stiles-banshees @americaxo17 @zabdisamor @princezzariel @mcuassemble @thatweirdomimic @juliebean247 @harryhollandwhore @spiderbibby @intiate03 @himynameishooman @bookworm06 @flowerboyparker @miraclesoflove @eridanuswave​ @jillanaholland @mendes-marvel @biebsmylife95 @i-cant-hangout-im-drumming @tsh-darling​ @popbubblegumpop​ @fanficscuziranout

[pandawritespoorly]

With Time: Chapter 38 - It’s Not Defamation If It’s True

Author’s Note: Who's ready for Gabriel getting his comeuppance?!?!?!

Settle down children, excitement and righteous fury is no excuse to forget your manners. Now get your snacks and get comfortable.

I hope you enjoy!

Chapter Summary: Gabriel underestimates the power of teenagers who care for their friend.

Edit: Whoops! I didn't check my comments in the doc! Strong language warning! "fucking"

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Marinette knows it’s spring because she wakes up easily. It’s always easier to wake up during spring, and, given her energy, it can be harder to rest.

She suspects Tikki is already up, enjoying the sun on the balcony. At the thought, the girl scrambles to get ready so she can enjoy the weather.

She’s done in record time, grabbing her phone as she joins Tikki.

 Kid Mime: good morning my faithful fair funny fast fancy festive fizzy funky friends

 Melodie: ‘Fizzy’?

 Kid Mime: i ran out of f adjectives

 Felix: You already had seven without that one.

 The Mom Friend: i think you did great

The Mom Friend 10/10 wood read again

 Kid Mime: yay!!

 Patisserie Princess: hiiiiii!!!!!!!

 Kid Mime: wats this????

Kid Mime: mari up??

 Melodie: With time to text too!

 Patisserie Princess: yep

Patisserie Princess: its spring!!!!!

 The Mom Friend: any of ur flowers blooming yet

 Patisserie Princess: not yet

Patisserie Princess: but soon. i can feel it

 Felix: That will certainly be exciting.

 Patisserie Princess: it will be!!!!!!!

Patisserie Princess: (◕ᴗ◕✿)

Patisserie Princess: k im heading out now!!!!!!!

 Kid Mime: byeeeeeeee!!!!!!

 Melodie: See you soon!

“Alright, let’s go, Tikki!” Marinette hops up from her chair, giving Tikki a moment to hide in her purse before hurrying downstairs. She shouts goodbye to her parents as she heads to school.

It’s so sunny, and she’s smiling wide. Today is a good day.

She arrives at school in what must be record time. She spots Allan and Claude walking into the building together and joins them.

“Hi!!!” Marinette chirps.

“Hey, ‘Nette. Good to see you so early,” Allan greets her.

Claude throws their arms in the air. “Marinette! Our sunshine has arrived!!”

“Adrien is our sunshine,” she corrects.

“Hmm.” Claude pretends to think this over. “This is a conundrum.”

“You’re a star,” Allan suggests.

“Yes!! Perfect!”

“You guys are stars too!!” Marinette smiles.

Claude strikes a DramaticPose™. “Well, of course I’m a star!”

Allan and Marinette clap appropriately. A few nearby students join in. Claude bows several times.

“Thank you, thank you!”

Marinette throws a flower at him. “Bravo!”

Claude gasps, clutching the flower to his chest. “The fair maiden has chosen me! I have been awarded a flower from our fair lady!”

Marinette curtsies. “‘Tis no trouble to me, my knight.”

“Shall I escort you and your companion to your court?”

“It would be very kind of you sir, I am expecting company from neighboring kingdoms.”

“Then we shall depart at once!”

With Allan and Marinette snickering, Claude leads the pair to the library where Felix and Allegra are calmly sitting at a table.

“Her royal highness, Our Star has arrived! Her meeting place is quieter than the courtyard, so we shall withhold the fanfare! Trumpets on standby!”

The librarian shoots him a grateful look, and Marinette can hear Allegra and Felix sigh in unison at Claude’s antics. Allegra shuts her book and turns. Allan and Marinette are both struggling to muffle their laughter. Claude has a flower behind his ear and leads the two to the table.

“Greetings fair lady Allegra and lord Felix of kingdoms Coudriet and Voclain! I am delighted to inform you that we have been blessed with the presence of Mademoiselle Dupain-Cheng and Monsieur Poirot!”

Allegra and Felix clap quietly.

“So what brought this on?” Felix queries.

“Marinette gave me a flower!” Claude chirps.

“You look great, Claude. Very cute.” Allegra smiles.

“Thanks! I’m gorgeous!” Claude pretends to flip his hair.

“Oh for sure,” Allan agrees. “Model material over here.”

---

The group is on their way out of school when Marinette gets a call. They slow down so she can talk and walk easier.

“Hello?”

They hear shouting on the other end.

“Well, I’m not opposed, but weren’t we-”

The person on the other end interrupts her.

“He is? Well- What do you mean he’s at school?!”

She pauses.

“Since yesterday? Excuse me, but he wasn’t also working?! Ohhh, he’s a dead man,” she growls. “Does he think-?!”

A sharp retort from the other end.

“It was rhetorical, and you didn’t let me finish.” Marinette rolls her eyes.

More talking on the other end, then the call ends.

“‘Just get over here now’” Marinette mimics, then deadpans, “Thanks for the suggestion, I was planning on touring France first.”

“What’s going on?” Claude asks.

Marinette wrinkles her nose, frowning. “That was Chloe, she says we’re doing it now.”

“Like, now? Weren’t we going to like… finalize things?” Allan asks.

“Oh heck yeah! Finally! That man is going down!” Allegra cheers.

“What happened?” Felix frowns.

Claude looks concerned. “Is Adrien okay?”

“No. He’s been crazy sick since yesterday, and Gabriel is making him go about as usual because he’s trying to get as much stuff out as he can to recover from all the backlash recently. We’re stopping by Dupont to bring him to the bakery, then we’re going to call in some favors a little earlier than anticipated.”

“I wish I could punch him. I wish I could punch him multiple times,” Allegra mutters.

---

Marinette leads them up the stairs of Dupont, and though she’s been attending a different school for the majority of the year, everyone there knows to stay out of her way with that look in her eyes.

She’s on the warpath.

At the library, she finds Chloe and Sabrina, with a very tired Adrien who is sleeping on his textbook.

He’s pale, and his face is flushed. He looks shaky and weak, and Marinette’s heart sinks at her kitty in such a state. She goes up to him, crouching beside his chair and running her fingers through his hair.

His eyes open and he squints at her through his half-open lids, his eyes glazed over.

“Hi.”

“Hey,” she whispers. “Want to go home?”

He nods, barely with her, and she runs her fingers through his hair a little more. His eyes slip closed again. She can hear her friends talking behind her, but that doesn’t matter at the moment. He’s purring, but it’s very quiet, and if she didn’t know better, she’d pass it off as just weird breathing from being so sick.

Keeping one hand in his hair, she stands and turns to her friends. “We’re taking him home now, then we can start finishing this.”

They nod, and Allan speaks up, “Who can carry him?”

Marinette just picks him up, which they all accept as an answer. She frowns. “He shouldn’t be this light.”

“Fucking Gabriel,” Allegra and Chloe mutter.

As she carries him outside, she sees Nino give her a relieved smile. He and Adrien may not hang out much anymore, but he still cares about the model.

When they arrive in the designer’s room, Marinette places him gently on the chaise, settling a blanket over him and sitting in front of him.

Chloe pulls down the sheet from Marinette’s ceiling. It’s covered in various sticky notes and lists. There’s phone numbers scattered about, with lines connecting them to other places. A checklist occupies the corner, with various things marked off, all are connected to some other part of the organized mess.

It’s impressive it all fits.

“Felix, Chloe, if either of you need to step out to speak with the lawyers, then go ahead. Sabrina-”

The other girl smiles, waving her off. “I’m already looking it over.”

“Great, thank you,” Marinette nods.

“I can call about the apartment,” Allegra volunteers.

“Good idea. Then I guess-”

Claude puts a hand on her shoulder. “Mari, it’s okay. We know what to do, you can just take care of Adrien right now.”

She sighs, smiling gratefully, and nodding, turning to Adrien. She tunes out the rest of the room, eyes only for her partner. She sees worried green eyes peering out from his overshirt, and waves at the Kwami subtly. The God simply nods at her and burrows closer to his Chosen.

Putting a hand to his forehead, she confirms that he definitely has a fever. She heads to the kitchen, finding the thermometer, and grabbing a glass of water in case he wants it.

Her room is a busy center for the various plans going on, as everyone assigns themselves tasks to complete to get as much done as quickly as they can. The noise level still manages to remain low, as everyone is aware of the model resting.

“Hey,” Marinette whispers, brushing Adrien’s hair out of his face. “Can I get your temperature quick?”

He manages a nod.

She frowns at the number displayed. “Definitely a fever.”

Adrien hums.

“I’d offer you water, but you probably just want to go back to sleep, huh?”

He slow blinks at her, and she smiles softly, returning the look and squeezing his hand quickly while he continues to sleep. She turns around, sitting against the chaise again.

Marinette gets out a laptop, typing furiously as she gets to work as well, emailing the journalists that Nadja had mentioned to her.

 Hello! You seem as though you’re a reputable reporter who can help me out! I hate to see people getting away with terrible things, and given the current state of the Agreste brand, this seems like a good time to bring this to light. Attached to this email, you’ll find…

 Greetings! I trust you’ll respect my wish to remain anonymous. I understand you specialize in exposés…

 I have attached some stories to this email that did not receive the attention they should have. I believe that this could be a good time for a journalist such as yourself to bring them back to light, so that this may receive the attention it deserves…

 I’d like to remain anonymous, but I thought you’d be interested…

 The Gabriel brand has a history of covering up less than flattering stories, but…

 The designer emails tens of reporters, all about a variety of things that Gabriel’s lawyers had gone to great lengths to keep from reaching the mainstream media. The stories range from everything to the treatment of their workers to claims of art theft, to suspicious movement of money, and more. She contacted people from all over, bloggers, to journalists to news anchors, and more than a few people outside of Paris and even France.

She emailed people mentioned in articles, encouraging them to speak out again. She went to relevant online forums and anonymously mentioned that now would be a good time for the brand’s darker secrets to come to like, if anyone was so inclined, and linked to several other news outlets that would likely take the stories.

She sent a variety of emails to big names in the fashion world, feigning hesitance to purchase from them, given their closeness to someone like Gabriel, who is currently so negatively viewed.

The best part is that all the things she’d mentioned were already true. She and her friends had spent weeks looking for the stories and the interviews that had been ignored and conveniently ‘lost’.  They were going to find even more, but even if they’re doing this early, internet sleuths will be entirely capable of finding it themselves, which will only lead to further waves.

Marinette was sure to ask for anonymity, or even encourage them to not mention her at all. She used different emails and forms of contact, using different styles of writing and, when contacting someone in a different language, she used different levels of fluency in the language. The people she contacted had little to no connections to each other, and she sent a few emails out on various delays.

Even if people suspected one person had been behind all of these reports coming out at once, they wouldn’t be able to tie it back to her, if they even thought that a group of teenagers could be responsible in the first place. Not that this is defamation.

No, that would imply that all of this is made up - and it’s all very, very true.

Gabriel doesn’t stand a chance.

---

Eventually, the others go home. Marinette had made a call to Nathalie to convince (read: threaten) her into letting Adrien have a sleepover. The woman had the nerve to argue that Adrien ‘is sick and needs to be under proper care’.

As if.

His proper care is never in the hands of Nathalie and Gabriel, no, Marinette is more than willing to take care of him.

He’d slept for most of the day. Even with everyone using her room as a headquarters for both Operation Emancipate Adrien and Operation Gabriel Takedown (it’s just more fun to have names, and it makes it feel a little less sad), he’d been dead to the world. She’s eaten dinner, so now she doesn’t really have much else to do.

Why not email some more people?

She’s in the middle of tracking down an article that could be useful when a hand reaches past her and shuts her laptop.

“Mari. Take a break.”

She turns to see a very tired Adrien awake once more, who is attempting to look reprimanding.

“I don’t need a break! I’m just-”

“Shhhhh.” He puts a finger over her mouth. “Don’t give m’ dumb dad all y’ur energy. Do something fun.”

“I’m not giving him all my energy. I’m just making sure he won’t have anything left to stand on. He’s gotten away with how he’s treated you for too long!” She argues.

“By wasting all your en’rgy on him. You guys have done plenty, don’ worry. Jus’... tell me how your garden’s doin’.”

Her face lights up at the question, and she excitedly describes to him how she has not one, not two, but three new sprouts, and how this plant is already blooming, and how that plant is doing so much better since she figured out that it wasn’t getting as much sun as she thought.

She rambles on and on, and he sinks back against the lounge, watching her happily update him on the state of one of her hobbies.

He loves seeing her smile.

He doesn’t realize he’s purring until she gives him a soft smile, just for him, that warms his heart. She starts scratching his head and continues to inform him about how different bugs are actually beneficial to gardens and different natural ways to keep unwanted bugs off plants without harming the plant or the good bugs.

He just lets her talk. His head still hurts, and he’s most certainly still sick, but this? This is nice.

Marinette notices that Adrien’s kitty kisses are beginning to give way to him struggling to keep his eyes open.

“Sleepy, Kitty?”

He hums.

“I’ll let you sleep.”

He reaches out to her slightly.

“Oh, alright. I guess.”

Feigning annoyance, she moves to sit with him on the chaise, hugging him close as he gets comfortable with the new arrangement. With a giant kitten sleeping and purring next to (and partially on) her, it isn’t long before she drifts off to sleep herself.

---

Author’s Note: So how was that? We'll be seeing it finally come to a close in chapter 40 (It's literally titled emancipation), but that focuses more on Adrien settling in to his new life.

I finished writing the last chapters last night. I'm still in shock I think, just a bit. I'll probably write a goodbye to this fic (because I'm sappy like that), then I can get started on all the events that I didn't write that I've promised to write for you guys. I know I promised Tikki and Plagg's talk after the reveal, as well as at least two or three other things, and, of course, Alya's (and Nino's) apologies to Adrien. I can't remember which events I promised, so please do let me know. (I think I have a few comments of a me listing them, so I may stalk through the comment section).

I know you all want the results to the survey, so you can find those here! (Another reminder that if you're here early, the link won't be there yet and you'll need to refresh the page 💕). I have a survey question that I really like, so after all the chapters I'll give it a one-shot all its own and, yes, it will have a survey that you guys can answer too. The next Dumb Debate will be in chapter 41, in case you were wondering. It's a fun one too.

Another thing to mention now that the story is wrapping up, I've saved scenes that I had to scrap or that went under intense rewrites so for those interested in seeing some deleted scenes, I'll post those the same day as the last chapter (which is an epilogue, and therefore shorter) to give you some extra content then.

Wow, it's weird that we're so close to the end.

Thank you all so much for reading!! Comments and kudos are my lifeblood and I cannot find enough ways to say thank you! Or if you're reading on tumblr, likes and reblogs (or asks, I never really get any) also make my day! Lovely to 'see' you guys and I hope you all have a wonderful day!

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[westallenfun]

An Unexpected Christmas Vacation

An Unexpected Christmas Vacation, Part 1

WestAllen secret santa gift

From: @babyish14​

For: @cpflashfan​​

Note: Happy Holidays, CPFlashFan!  I hope you like your gift! This story is a part of a series of Christmas fics for WestAllen Secret Santa over the years! 

This story follows a few years after a Home For the Holidays! Found here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/17181491

Iris West-Allen finds herself frustrated in the holiday season. Barry Allen, always there to support his wife, plans an unexpected and unique Christmas vacation. 

In this story, Iris and Barry have been married for about 10 years; living in their new house in Central City. The twins are already born and are four years old. 

____________________________________________________________________________

Iris West-Allen stood in her bedroom with tape along her arm and a pair of scissors in her hand. The matriarch of the West-Allen family had spent the afternoon wrapping gifts for Christmas.

During her teenage years, Iris spent the holidays wrapping gifts at the local mall. Since then, Iris was the queen of the perfectly wrapped gift. It was normally the easiest task of the holiday season; however, this year was proving to be quite difficult.

“You gifts are really trying to defy me this year.” The gift on the desk looked misshapen and nothing like the usual Iris West standard of gift-wrapping. She ripped the paper off the gift and threw it across the room.

Iris took a deep breath and placed her head in her hands. “Not now,” Iris mumbled from behind her hands as she heard the sound from her phone. Her hand raised from her head to look at the message that currently required her attention.

Allegra: Got a tip on the current story. Do you have time to go over it?

Iris was happy that there was a tip on the story. It had been weeks since they had started investigating and the trail had gone cold. She was to the point of bringing in Ralph or closing the story completely. The boss reporter looked at the time and date on the wall. It was 7 pm on December 23rd.

It was barely two days before Christmas, and she had no gifts wrapped; and a few gifts were still missing. Iris wouldn’t normally fret about gift-wrapping, but one glance at all the used wrapping paper on the floor and you would understand her anxiety.

Iris: Sure girl! Send over the tips to my email.

Allegra: Will do.

As Iris waited for the email, she returned to wrapping one of the gifts. When she heard the email tone emitted from her laptop, Iris smiled. It appeared as if one thing was working out for today. The half-wrapped gift now laid temporarily abandoned didn’t look too bad itself.

Iris clicked open the file and her smile disappeared. There was only one piece of new information. The witness that they needed was found dead. The story they wished to develop was dead now too.

As Iris went to retrieve her phone, she saw a notification from Amazon shipping pop up on the laptop. The notification read: “Package delayed. New delivery expected Dec.27th.”

“Great,” Iris mumbled sarcastically as she closed her laptop with a thud.  The phone rang as expected with Allegra’s caller ID appearing on the screen.

“Hi, Iris. I’m –”

“It’s fine, Allegra. We tried.”

“Maybe we can dig into a bit more tomorrow. Susan and I were thinking…”

“No, no. It’s late. Make sure everyone heads home and tomorrow is Christmas Eve. I appreciate everything all of you do. Tell Susan thanks as well and I’ll see you both after the holiday.”

Susan was one of the newest reporters that had been added to the Citizen. The newspaper had grown heavily over the past few years. The Central City Citizen now had over 50 employees and moved to a larger office. The newspaper had been named as one of the top 10 growing publications to look out for in the coming year. It was the highlight of Iris’s year, but also came with the mounting pressure of living up to the expectation and hype surrounding the Citizen.

Allegra sensing the disappointment in Iris’s voice didn’t argue. It had taken a few years, but Allegra began to have a better understanding of Iris and also began to shape herself into a true reporter.

“I will. Happy Holidays, Iris.”

“Happy Holidays, Allegra.”

Iris placed the phone down on the desk and took notice of the half-wrapped gift. She felt like it was taunting her to finish it.

At her frustration, she left the bedroom and headed to the upstairs lounge of the house. It appeared as if the weather wasn’t even cooperating with the holiday, either. It was bright and sunny outside with little to no chance of snow.

Iris loved a white Christmas and the sight of this warm weather was quite disappointing. It was quickly shaping up to be one of those Christmases in which nothing was planning out as expected.

“Iris?” A small voice rang out from behind where Iris sat on the window seat.

Iris smiled. The sweet voice of her little sister could cure a thousand problems. Iris turned away from the window. 

“Yes, Jenna?” 

Jenna stood before her big sister with a game of Candy Lane in her hands. “Can we play?” 

“Of course, we can love.” Iris moved off the window seat and onto the floor. She patted the seat next to her for Jenna to join. 

Jenna happily ran over and sat on the ground. The youngest West child opened the box and carefully laid out the pieces and set up the board. 

Iris watched as her baby sister set up her favorite game; especially this time of year. There were times she couldn’t believe that Jenna was eight and her twins were four. Time seemed to be flying and she was determined to enjoy every minute of it. 

Iris and Jenna had made it to the end of the game when Barry made it upstairs. 

“I won!” Jenna exclaimed! 

Iris made a mock frown. “Aww! Well, there’s next time.” 

Jenna giggled. “Yeah right, Iris. I always win.” 

Barry laughed. “West girls are always competitive.” 

Iris looked up at her husband and joined in on the laughing. It was honestly the thing she needed right now. 

“Yes, we are.” Iris motioned for Jenna to start packing up the game. “I’m going to assume you’ve come to tell us dinner is ready.” 

Barry leaned down on the ground and started helping his sister-in-law pack up the game. “Yes, it is.” 

He looked up at Jenna. “Sweetheart, why don’t you get washed up for dinner? Iris and I will finish up here.” 

Jenna handed the pieces to Barry and headed towards the stairs. As she bounded down the stairs, she yelled out: “I’ll help the twins get ready too.”

Iris smiled. “Sounds great, sweetie. Be careful.” 

Barry picked up the game and placed it on the side. “She takes being an aunt very seriously.” 

Iris laughed. “That she does.” 

Barry watched as Iris rose from the floor and glanced out the window. He noticed as her joyful expression dropped. He knew how much Iris looked forward to snow on Christmas. 

He rose from his own position on the ground and started caressing Iris’s back. “We’ve got two more days. Hopefully, we’ll get some snow by then.” 

“Yeah.” Iris managed to mumble as tears began to track across her face. She attempted to shield her face away from Barry, but she knew the effort was worthless. Barry always knew when something was wrong, even when they were far apart. It was the connection the two held between each other since youth. 

Barry turned her face towards him. This was more to this than snow. “Talk to me.” 

Iris feigned a weak smile. “It’s stupid. Don’t worry about it.” 

“If it’s making you cry, it’s not stupid, Iris.” 

Iris leaned into her husband’s shoulder. “It’s just…you know I like things to be perfect for Christmas.” 

Barry continued to place caresses down her back. “It will be perfect, Iris.” 

She looked up at him. “I don’t even have gifts wrapped yet. And you know..” 

He interrupted. “I can do that.”  When she didn’t say anything, he continued on. “I may not do as well as you, but I can do it.” 

At the mention of her gift-wrapping skills, she continued to break down. “That’s the thing, I can’t seem to get it right this year. And to top it off, I don’t have all of your gifts.” 

Barry continued to listen and used his thumb to brush away some tears. It was clear she was more frustrated than she was letting on. This release of emotions was a long time coming. 

Barry responded in some attempt of comfort. He knew this was beyond Christmas, but he didn’t want to push. “It’s only Christmas. The kids will appreciate anything we give them.” 

The tears had begun to slow down. The warmth of being in Barry’s embrace was always the best source of comfort. “It’s not just Christmas. People have grown to expect so much from me. I just don’t know if I can do it all.” 

It was at this moment that Barry pulled her into a kiss. “This kiss is to remind you that I’ll always be here beside you, the same as you are with me.” 

He kissed her again. “This one is to remind you that you, Iris West-Allen, are capable of anything that is thrown your way. You will always find a solution.” 

Iris couldn’t help but smile. They had been married for over five years and she didn’t tire of hearing him call her by that name. “I love it when you call me that.” 

Barry grinned. “I love hearing it.”

The parents suddenly heard a thrust from downstairs and padded feet headed towards the kitchen. 

Barry pulled her back into his chest. “I think it’s time you go get washed up for dinner.” 

Iris managed at a laugh. “I guess it is my turn now.” 

Barry placed a kiss on her forehead. “I love you.” 

“I love you too.” Iris turned towards their bedroom. “Don’t wait for me.”

Barry gave her a smile. “Take your time. Dinner will be there.” 

Barry headed down the stairs as Iris closed the bedroom door. He realized when she needed a little alone time. She strived so much to make life perfect for their family, and he hated it when it caused her this much stress. He wished she knew that her just being here was perfect enough. 

Iris needed a break before Christmas and he was about to find a way to get her one. 

Part 2 will coming very soon (between later today and tomorrow) Hope you enjoyed Part 1! Gave you something to look forward to lol! 

Here’s a sneak preview: 

Iris still remembered the Christmas in which Barry showed her the house. She remembered imagining the large Christmas tree that struggled to fit in the loft, sitting in front of the living room window. 

As Iris headed down the stairs, she glanced at the Christmas tree that sat in the living room just as she had imagined. …

Iris’s focus shifted from the tree to the lack of lights and people downstairs. 

‘Where was everybody?’ Iris thought to herself. 

She turned the corner to find a trail of candles and rose petals along the floor. 

“Hello, Iris.” 

[luna-memoria]

Rise from the ashes

For @felixmonth, day 26: Villain!

..

"Your new assignment."

Felix keeps his gaze low and mostly to himself as he takes the file his father handed him silently. There is a soft crinkle of paper as he pulls out the contents for a quick inspection, then proceeding to slip it back in.

"What do you need me to do?" he asks plainly, but with a little more anxiety than usual. It is a Friday night, and Felix is a villain in his father's office taking up a new quest. His father runs most of the city's businesses and also a huge underground organization, and anyone who cares oppose him or stand in his way will be quickly dealt with. Which has somehow become Felix's job, now. He doesn't quite understand why his father would choose him of all people for a job like wrecking havoc - it is simply not in his nature, but the butterfly pendant he received from the man grants him those exact powers, so he eventually chose to go along with the order. It is not wise to go against the Agreste, everyone in town say. You do not want to know what he does when angered.

It is even bigger of a problem that Felix knows- he knows that he's not the greatest- punishment his father has prepared. There is someone else in the shadows, someone who bears even stronger powers that his father chooses to hide from him. It scares him somehow, because there is a lingering, faint thought that his father will eventually come to use that someone on him, which is... an unsettling thought to have.

Gabriel is now in his seat, back against him. The glorious glass-stain window behind his desk forms a bright contrast with the dark, neat office. "The usual."

Felix bits his lip, fingers knotting together tightly in a fist. "I have plans this weekend-"

"I expect you to be done by the usual time as well." His words cut in sharply. They do not even come in a harsh tone - cold, maybe, but still manage to effect Felix internally, somehow. He hates himself a little bit more for that.

His eyes are glued to his feet, and he manages to find his words, "I- understand, sir."

"You may leave."

He bolts, immediately, grip tight on the file. He only stops in the hallway to catch his breathe a brief moment later, and as he does so he comes to face the mirrored glass panel where his reflection is.

He frowns at his pathetic look, bits his bottom lip again until it goes white. "Still so weak," a mumble escapes his lips. Still a teenager, despite what his father says. What his father needs is a capable young adult at his service, but Felix- he doesn't want to work under his father, using these destructive powers he can barely control in a proper manner. It is a Friday night, and Felix is a teenager and also a supervillain in training against his wishes and he has plans for the weekend for once but he has to cancel them because his father will not tolerate failure when it comes to his assignment or anything else, really.

It is times like these that make him hate his life actively. 

Everything else after that comes in a blur, but he is sure that he managed to make it home safely at some point, because the next thing he knows he's on his bed with a copy of A Christmas Carol in his hand. His homework is completed and sitting in his bag, something he's done between periods and during lunchtime because he has been looking forward to the weekend.

Absentmindedly, he unlocks his phone and pulls up the one, lone group chat, sending a simple message describing his night. They don't reply back immediately like they usually do, which is odd.

Both the Allegra and Claude he knew would at least say something. And it's not like Allan or Bridgette to ignore his texts, despite the fact that they very well might have something more important to tend to -

He ignores the memories that come flooding his mind all of a sudden and taking away all his rationality and sense. Isn't that Monsieur Agreste's son? Someone's voice says. Oh, that child, I know him, he goes to the same school as my daughter, she says that he-

Stop it- stopitstopit-

"I have something more important to tend to. You should just go home."

"Stop," he says weakly, book long abandoned on the other side of his bed and puts his arms around his knees. This is where his friends usually step in, when his thoughts become too loud sometimes. 

(His friends - his friends who do more than spend most of their free time with him and trying to help him when they're not. Allegra, who pulled him into this horrifying friend group in the first place. Allan, who texted him in the middle of the night to go and put graffiti on the company walls of his father. Claude, who bought - stole - said graffiti. Bridgette, who stuck around through everything and talked to him when he needed it.)

The next thing he notices is a glass of water being shoved in his face. He looks back up, and sees Allegra sitting next to him in a frown. Behind her are their three friends, all disheveled and messy and sleepy, coats placed over pajamas during their last-minute departure from their homes.

"You gotta stay hydrated," she says, her hand on his shoulder in a gentle grip. "It'll help you feel better." There is a determined look in her eyes, and he thinks that she looks like she really does believe she can release him from his current life. Maybe he does too, a little, maybe, or he wouldn't be here with them right now.

Expect, they don't know who he really is. That's the problem. They wouldn't be here if they knew, he knows that much.

They couldn't know. They'll hate him for it. Allegra will definitely hate him for it. But then they should know, because it's not fair for wonderful people like them to be concerned over a liar like him.

He takes the glass from her, deciding to not dwell over those problems this moment. "Thank you."

"C'mon alley cat, we're heading out," Claude announces with a smirk, pulling on his hood.

"You do realize it's almost midnight."

"Not like, out, dude. You made us rush over near midnight. Of course we're going to raid your kitchen. No objections allowed."

Felix grins. "Never said I was going to give any."

[find-the-eyes]

I’ll Try Anything Once, Chapter 48

Written by: Allegra, Sol

Edited by: Beth, Allegra, Sol

The bright December sun poured through the windscreen of Alex’s car, warming Nick’s face as he stared idly out the window. 

Despite his calm demeanor, Nick’s mind was racing. They were on their way to yet another medical appointment, something that had become routine for them over the last month. Nick hated going to the doctor. Any doctor. The unforgiving fluorescent lighting, the white walls, the sterile smell, the way everyone around looked so sad for Nick. He’d had enough. He just wanted to be better. But it didn’t seem like he ever would be. 

“You alright?” The car had come to a stop, Nick realized, and Alex had placed his left hand atop Nick’s right. Nick turned his gaze to Alex and forced a smile.

“Oh...I’m fine.”

Alex frowned as he lightly ran his fingertips across Nick’s knuckles. “Fine?” Nick hmmed in response. “Aren’t you excited? They might clear you to stop wearing the mask today!” Alex was always good at retaining the deluge of information that the doctors and nurses had given Nick during his recovery, and he had been looking forward to this day for weeks. He was (somewhat selfishly) excited about the prospect of finally being able to kiss Nick again, but he was also looking forward to Nick regaining his independence, freedom from his reliance on a machine to control his breathing.

“Yeah…” Nick said, pausing before quietly adding, “...No. I’m not. I’m scared.”

“Oh, Nick,” Alex whispered, squeezing Nick’s hand as he hit the accelerator when the light flashed to green. “Everything is going to be fine. I’m sure.” 

Nick said nothing, trying to focus on the warmth of Alex’s reassuring hand atop his. Logically, he knew that he had come a long way since the day he had come home from the hospital, but his anxious brain could only think of what he still couldn’t do. He couldn’t walk long distances without becoming exhausted. He couldn’t breathe on his own for more than a few hours. He couldn’t bathe alone, or cook for himself, or sleep by himself without Alex staying with him to make sure that he was still alive. That was the worst thing of all, Nick thought, the way Alex had completely uprooted his life to take care of him day in and day out, somehow managing to fit in schoolwork and errands and taking care of Steckrübe on top of everything else. Would Alex be okay with having to do this every day, forever? If Nick didn’t get better, he knew he would be stuck in their flat forever, never again able to play a show or go to class or go places with his friends. And Alex would have to follow suit. Nick couldn’t do that to Alex...but he wouldn’t have a choice. Alex wouldn’t want to take care of him, he would break up with him, and Nick would be alone yet again.

The car jolted to a stop again, this time in a space in the car park, the grey medical building looming before them. 

“Want to roll there?” Alex asked as he waited for Nick to step out of the car.

Nick stepped out of the car and shakily shut the door. “I can walk.”

“You’re sure?” Nick nodded before almost losing his balance. Alex instinctively grabbed Nick’s waist to steady him. “Are you absolutely sure you don’t need to roll?”

“I’m fine.” Nick wasn’t feeling fine, but he forced himself to soldier on. Alex kept one hand on Nick’s lower back as they made their way up the sidewalk. By the time they had reached the front door, Alex’s arms were firmly wrapped around Nick’s chest as his legs threatened to give out beneath him. 

Alex stumbled through the automatic doors and sat Nick down in a chair in the waiting room so he could talk to a receptionist. Nick sank into his seat, slumping down far enough to rest his head on the back of the chair. The room spun around him even when he closed his eyes. His chest ached, like his lung was going to collapse again at any moment. 

Nick only opened his eyes when Alex sat down next to him. “Everything alright?”

“Yeah,” Nick blinked and tried to catch his breath.

“I brought you water,” Alex handed Nick a bottle of water. “Can you open it?”

Nick nodded and opened the bottle. As soon as he took a sip, he was called for his appointment. As he trudged down the hall to the exam room, he held onto Alex with one arm and the wall with the other.

When they made it to the exam room, Nick immediately collapsed onto the bench he was supposed to sit on. Alex sighed and lifted him to sit on it. “Are you feeling alright?”

Nick nodded and leaned against the wall. This wasn’t going to go well.

The doctor came into the room a few minutes later and both Alex and Nick greeted her hesitantly. Alex was nervous now. Nick could tell.

“Could you take off your mask, please?” The doctor asked, ready to assess Nick’s breathing. Nick pulled the mask off, once again hesitating, scared of the possible negative outcome.

The doctor then listened to Nick’s breathing with her stethoscope, running the cold metal over his chest and back. Nick made sure to try to keep it as even as he could. Even the slightest flaw could stop him from being cleared. He put the mask back on after she was done.

“I think we should do an x-ray,” the doctor suggested, “is that ok?” Nick nodded and looked over at Alex, who gave a thumbs up of approval. “Come right this way,” she said, sliding the exam room door open and heading down the hall.

Nick glanced nervously at Alex and slid himself off the table, his legs wobbling. He took a hesitant step, his hand still firmly planted against the counter, and then another. Alex reached out for him, but Nick shook his head. He stepped again and again, small steps, making his way to the door slowly but surely.

The doctor reappeared in the doorway. “Right this w-” she began, trailing off as she locked eyes with Nick, his hand braced on the wall, his legs dangerously close to giving out again. 

“... I’ll go get you a wheelchair,” the doctor rushed off and returned a few moments later. Nick hesitated to sit down, not wanting to accept his weakness.

Luckily, or unluckily, for Alex, Nick’s walking abilities were to be assessed as soon as he returned from his x-ray.

“Well… you’re walking,” the doctor reassured Nick after he wobbled across the room, “that’s a good thing. But you’re not balanced at all when you walk…”

Nick nodded, acknowledging that he was always afraid of toppling over whenever he took more than a couple steps without support.

"But that's okay. We can get you a pair of crutches for that."

Nick's ears perked up at the suggestion. Crutches? He was strong enough for crutches? He nodded vigorously. "Okay." 

The doctor left the room to look for a pair of crutches. Nick wobbled back to the bench and tried to hop up to sit on it. 

“Let’s hope this helps, yeah?” Alex remarked cheerily as he helped Nick onto the bench. Nick nodded again, a bit nervous. What if he wasn’t strong enough?

The doctor came back a few minutes later, holding a pair of crutches. Nick tensed up when he saw them. It was happening. He did his best to let his body relax as the doctor slipped the cuffs around his arms and showed him how to properly hold the handles. 

“You got it, Nick?” Alex asked as Nick cautiously slid down from the bench. Nick nodded and steadied himself. He took one slow step, then a second. This wasn’t so bad. It wasn’t great, either - but he was upright and walking. His shoulders were scrunched and his elbows bent awkwardly outwards as he made his way to the door, then turned around and walked back to the bench.

The doctor nodded her approval. “Great. Before you leave, we’ll get a nurse to adjust the height of those. I can see that they’re a little too tall for you.” Alex inadvertently let out a small snort of laughter and Nick looked at him, brows furrowed. “The x-ray results should be back by now… let me go check!”

When the doctor left the room, Nick looked up at Alex. “Why’d you laugh just now?”

“Well… You are quite short, Nick. But it’s cute. You’re cute!” Alex playfully rubbed his hand across Nick’s upper back. Nick smiled faintly. He was proud to have graduated to using crutches, but the nagging fear of not being cleared still clouded his mind. He couldn’t let his guard down just yet. 

The doctor returned with the x-ray photos in her hand. Her white coat swished as she shut the door and strode over to the x-ray screen, flicking on the switch. “Well, Nick,” she smiled, “I’ve got some good news. Your lung is fully healed!”

Nick grinned, but was still unsure of what that meant. It sure didn’t feel healed.

“The punctured part has been completely patched up. If you look here-” She hung the x-ray on the screen and gestured to one area. “-the puncture from falling on the barrier is totally gone. There was a hole here on the first x-rays we took, but not anymore!”

Nick wanted to know why he still felt so much pain and weakness if he was as “healed” as the doctor claimed, but couldn’t find the words. Alex spoke up, as though reading his mind. “So, what exactly does that mean?”

“It means that his lungs are fully functioning again and he can breathe independently. There’s no chance of air escaping and causing his lung to collapse again. So,” she said with a smile, turning her attention back to Nick, “that means you don’t need to wear the mask anymore! You can always put it on if you feel like you need it, considering your lungs are still weak. But you are in the clear!”

A smile spread across Nick’s face again, this time for real. He was cleared. He was better. He wasn’t confined to the flat anymore. He had...survived. If he was physically able, he would have jumped for joy, but instead settled on kicking the air gently with excitement.

Alex nudged Nick’s shoulder and tapped the mask. When Nick turned to look at him, Alex carefully lifted the mask off his face and pulled the straps out of his hair. Nick blinked rapidly and took his first real deep breath in months. “Thanks,” he said with an appreciative smile. 

“Does this mean I can leave the flat now?” Nick asked, silently hoping that the doctor wasn’t aware that he had actually left the flat already.

“That should be fine! Just take it easy, okay?” 

Once the crutches had been adjusted and Nick had been handed a fresh pile of instructions and paperwork, the boys made their way out to Alex’s car. As Alex readjusted the ventilator in his hands, he stole a glance at Nick, who looked fully content for the first time since Alex had met him. He was practically glowing, his smile spreading wider and wider across his face. His blue eyes were brighter than ever. He was practically bouncing with every step. Alex wanted nothing more than to grab him right then and there and kiss him within an inch of his life, but he decided it was better to save that for when they weren’t in public. He watched as Nick walked steadily to the car, taking it slow, not afraid of falling or passing out. Alex could tell Nick was tired, though, as he leaned against the car door, waiting for Alex to unlock it.

Nick slid into his seat as Alex opened the back door to toss Nick’s crutches into the pile of trash and random medical papers that spilled off the seat. I really need to clean, he thought to himself as he shoved a sketchbook out of the way to set the ventilator down. That could come later, though. Nick was waiting. Alex smiled as he shut the door and opened his own. He couldn’t wait to get home and kiss Nick for the first time in forever.

Alex climbed into his seat and looked over at Nick with a smile before putting the car in reverse and slowly beginning to pull out of the parking space. Alex’s neck was twisted to the right, checking for oncoming traffic, when he practically jumped out of his skin as he felt something wrap around him. He whipped his head around to find himself nose to nose with Nick, whose arms were already around Alex’s shoulders. Nick took a shaky breath and smashed his lips into Alex’s, pulling himself further across the armrest. Alex fumbled around for the gearstick, blindly returning the car to park before awkwardly wrapping his own arms around Nick’s back. Nick felt so small and fragile, like he was going to crumble in Alex's arms. It was a sharp contrast to the strength with which Nick was kissing Alex, his breathing heavy, his tongue pressing into Alex's mouth, one hand on Alex's back and one hand fisted in his hair.

Alex had never seen Nick like this before. He'd never gotten a chance to, before the accident had torn them apart for so long. Alex pulled Nick as close as he could, feeling his pounding heart as their chests pressed together. Nick was making soft noises now, gasping and sighing and moaning quietly. Alex couldn't help but respond with his own sounds as he kissed him back furiously. Nick's lips were chapped from the cold and being stuck behind the mask for weeks and weeks, but Alex didn't mind. He had been denied the pleasure, the warmth of Nick's breath and the taste of his lips for far too long.

"Alex," Nick breathed, finally pulling back from the kiss, pressing his forehead to Alex's. He was nearly panting, trying to catch his breath, but he was grinning from ear to ear. "I love you so much...I missed this so much."

"I love you too," Alex murmured, running his hand up and down Nick's cheek before pulling him in for another, more gentle kiss. Nick tried to deepen it the best he could, but his breathing was more shallow now, his lungs struggling to keep up. Alex sensed this and broke the kiss, helping Nick pull himself across the armrest and into Alex's lap. They stayed like that for a few moments, Nick straddling Alex's legs, Alex rubbing Nick's back as his breathing slowly came back under his control. Nick tightened his hold on Alex and laughed quietly. "What?" Alex asked.

Nick shook his head, too overwhelmed for words. "I...just...I love you. So much, schatz."

Alex giggled at the pet name. "Love you too, Nitzki," he said, running his hands up Nick's sides now. Alex continued to hold him, calming him down, until he realized they were still technically in public and their car was halfway out of the parking space. Normally he would have cared that they were making out in a place where anyone could see, but his brain was so overwhelmed with emotion that he'd lost all of his rational thoughts.

“Ready to go home, Nick?” 

Nick nodded, his arms tightening around Alex as he pressed himself flush against Alex's body. "One more?" he asked shyly, ghosting his lips against Alex's.

Alex smiled and pulled Nick close, their lips gently meeting once again.

[animalslifestyle]

Strangers Imprisoned Must Pick Who Lives And Who Dies In A Disastrous Extraterrestrial Experiment | Circle 2015

Circle doesn’t appear to have much going for it at first sight. It’s low-budget, with corny, simple dialogue, and its idea leads to rather a generic genre entertainment. Set almost completely in one room, while a circle of individuals votes on who to take off one by one until only one remains, it appears to be the type of glorified game show you’d find in the depths of a bargain bin or deep on Netflix.

But Circle is much more than its simple appearance. It pulls current identity politics full circle, shocking us with some ingenious sci-fi twists along the way. It’s ruthless, revelatory, and enormously important.

Circle hits a lot of my interests and preferences very directly, thus my enjoyment of the film may be skewed. Narratively, it falls nicely between two of my favorite Doctor Who episodes: Bad Wolf (which features future twists on famous game shows) and Exam (a single-location psychological thriller with sci-fi themes and one-by-one elimination). Circle doesn’t quite live up to the impact of my favorites on first watching, but its proximity in subject matter is enough to get me through even the most cringe-worthy lines (“c’mon, dude!” / “No, you c’mon, man!”).

Circle’s unpoetic language is undeniably one of its major weaknesses, and the lack of time for character development and the black-and-white simplicity of its ideas may be a little too theatrical for some, but I, for one, believe its obviousness is its greatest strength.

The cast of characters consists of 50 individuals, each of whom votes every few minutes on who should be murdered next, with the expectation that just one will survive. It’s unclear how they got there, but given the terrible reality of their predicament (they can’t move, so it’s vote or die), a masochistic survival-of-the-smartest seems unavoidable.

The ingenuity of this design is not in the game itself but in the interaction between the players. The group is obviously designed to reflect typical American demographics, with about equal numbers of men and women, representative proportions of each major racial group, and a wide range of age, sexuality, religion, occupation, and personality type. The majority of these characters are given less than a minute of screen time, with the structure of the film typically giving them the most of their conversation during the round of the “game” in which they are eliminated.

Of course, there are a few people whose roles are slightly more important to the game’s dynamics, such as a collaborative husband-and-wife duo (Matt Corboy and Julie Benz), a pregnant woman (Allegra Masters), and a little girl (Molly Jackson), none of whom anyone wants to vote off, and a rich man (Daniel Lench), who brashly tries to control proceedings, claiming his worth is greater because. When all of these personalities collide, Circle becomes a crucial dissection of identity politics, with every character — given just seconds to introduce themselves before their life is actually put up for a vote — reduced to obvious, shallow stereotypes and judged purely on those traits.

The film is a powerful examination of mob rule, minority identity, and our perceptions of one another in the age of Buzzfeed and Twitter. Circle, an incredibly obvious microcosm of an all-too-obvious universe, is precisely the stupid sci-fi picture 2015 requires. It covers nearly every headline topic of our day — illegal immigration, police brutality, ageism, sexism, racism, homophobia, classism, pro-choice vs. pro-life, religion vs. science — and succeeds precisely because it is so simply constructed and clear-cut.

Circle is rather low-key in terms of technology, but the production qualities are high for the budget level. The photography and editing keep up with the fast-paced action, and the picture avoids seeming cheap by employing CGI only when absolutely required. There are a few predictable plot twists, but what happens is far less essential than how and why it happens in this.

The conclusion of Circle indicates that the events of the film are the consequence of an extraterrestrial invasion of Earth. A number of the cast members reportedly recall being taken by alien entities early in the film. After winning the game, Eric spots UFOs in the sky. Circle’s creators, on the other hand, designed an open ending for the picture. It is possible that the survivors will be forced to participate in another “game” of the Circle.

The Circle is essentially an experiment in which the fittest are rewarded with a chance of survival. It is based on Darwin’s ‘Survival of the Fittest’ principle. Surprisingly, in the film, a person’s fitness is determined by their wit rather than their physical power. When it comes to ethics, though, the concept of survival of the fittest can feel cruel and nasty. While many individuals in Circle confirm Darwin’s hypothesis to be correct, many others are observed striving to follow a moral code.

They are clearly reluctant subjects of alien experimenters. But what is the experiment’s purpose? Is there an escape route? Should they strive to work with or against the men and women around them?

Heated discussion denotes a hive-mind argument that sets some (questionable) ground principles before debating tactics. Things rapidly become personal, as they always do when you realize you only have 60 seconds to determine which of the individuals you’re looking at will die. Should we be guided by prejudices based on race and class, or should we focus our rage on authoritative figures? Is self-sacrifice noble or irrational?

Long lengths of bullying and philosophizing occasionally tax our tolerance, and it’s difficult to imagine that the characters who commit them aren’t promptly zapped by their peers. A little dark humor would have gone a long way here, but the directors and cast keep things very serious. Still, the film keeps the suspense alive by having us predict how this will all play out, leading up to a concluding tableau that, silently, reveals nearly as much about human nature as all the discussion preceding it.

The narrative is the most serious flaw. It’s not riddled with flaws or anything; it’s just very, very predictable. You get the full “hey, what’s going on” phase, the “let’s attempt to beat the game” portion, and ultimately the societal commentary that was unavoidable. Racism, homosexual parents, religion, privilege — if it’s a hot-button issue (and there seem to be a lot of them these days), it’ll be brought up. The film takes no position on any of them (more or less), but attempts to portray all sides of the debate. That’s all well and good, but since I tend to hear this drivel every time I put on the television these days, I’ve had enough and don’t really want it in my entertainment.

The cast is decent; no one really leaps out as outstanding, but no one strikes out as rubbish. They’re all skilled and, for the most part, unknown (the only person I knew was Julie Benz, although I’m sure some viewers will have lots of “ooh ooh, I’ve seen that person someplace” moments). They also did a fantastic job of casting a diverse range of people of various creeds, ages, and so on to reflect a broad cross-section of society.

Aside from that, it’s a short film, so at least they didn’t drag it out, the effects and location (for what they are) are adequate, and the conclusion is executed flawlessly — as predictable as the film is throughout, I definitely didn’t see the last minutes coming.

So that’s the end of Circle. This film is for high-concept fans who prefer their entertainment in a new way, and the mystery of who will survive will keep some people engaged throughout, and the running duration was wisely kept under 90 minutes. If you have some free time and want to watch something unusual on Netflix, you could do worse.

Circle, written and directed by Aaron Hann and Mario Miscione, is both the product of successful cooperation and an examination of how we utilize collaboration to manipulate others for our own advantage. It’s far from flawless, yet based only on thematic need, this might be the most significant picture of 2015. Unfortunately, that significance does not appear to be going away anytime soon.

Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIUvYQqHaJulahGrU942ONQ

Playlist:

Sexy Love: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIUvYQqHaJulahGrU942ONQ

Horror: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLru4FE1-1keyyqd1rYJnlwpqE8ysUn2uv

[ilyasvieltrevelyanshepard]

Warriors and poems - Day 3

My participation for the Cullen Appreciation Week Day 3: Everything feels like it was worth fighting for -Post-game CullenWhere does Cullen end up after Trespasser? Is it a happily ever after? We don’t have the answer. But we know you do!

Is a Cullen/Cassandra fic, just in case you don’t like the pairing ^^ is fluffly and I love them, soooo, hope you like it ^__^

The red light of the setting sun paints the interior of his room. Cullen sits in front of the heart, Grey sleeping at his feet. He closes the book he was reading, standing up and stretching his back before moving to light on the candles and lamps around the little cabin. Opening the outside door, he steps into the porch, breathing deeply, enjoying the warm breeze and the scent of the forest nearby. A pair of men crossed the path in front of his home, waving to him before following their way. Alibear appears just then, the young mabari that King Alistair gifted him on the inauguration of the Sanctuary, running happily with his tongue out. It has been a year since the Exalted Council. A year since they disbanded the Inquisition, a year since Trevelyan lost his arm and disappeared in Tevinter with the Jenny’s, helping Dorian to make the changes he ever dreamed of. A year since Leliana turned on Divine Victoria, reforming the Chantry completely. The changes took their time to root, but the status quo has changed to one of complacency, being accepted by everyone. The Templars had returned to the Chantry, but only with the formal promise of the Divine to never lash them again with the lyrium yoke. The mages and their College of Enchanters are slowly changing how the people saw them, having turned their stronghold in a place of peace and knowledge. They even run a hospital and a shelter for the poor.And finally his Sanctuary, a place where every Templar who wants to get free of the lyrium prison can come. The Divine gave him the gold necessary to do it, and King Alistair gifted him with a big area near Honnleath to build it. They have twenty cabins, where the ones who want to heal, or the ones that can’t be cured, can live in peace. In this long year, more than fifteen Templars had been cured, some of them even had gone to live at the College of Enchanters, wanting to attune for their sins. Others returned to their homes to try to live a normal life, and others remained there, helping with the farming lands or working at the city to bring some extra money to the Sanctuary. Sadly for him, some of his brother and sisters in arms can’t be helped, their minds already lost to the madness of the blue venom, but at least they have a good place to live and people who care for them.His family visits him frequently. Alistair has chosen very well the location of the Sanctuary. Close enough to visit him each month but not enough to have them pestering at his door assiduously.Alibear is on his legs, big pawns resting on his hipbones and asking for some attention. “Hey, little one. Have you found something interesting today?” The little dog jumps to the ground, turning over himself before he can stop him. Leaning against the doorframe with a soft smile on his face, Cullen distracts himself scratching Grey’s head. A moment later, the puppy shows up on his feet with something in his mouth, and when Cullen sees the glove, an awkward smile shows on his face. He pats the dog’s head. “Where did you find my little treasure, Alibear?”The dog turns over himself, and moves to one side of the cabin, waiting for Cullen to join him. When he moves closer, he can see a single horse being walked to the house by a very familiar silhouette. He stores the glove on his belt, using a moment to push back his curls while she comes closer to the house. Cullen can’t fight against the happiness he feels every time she visits him. Once she is close enough, they share a big smile, eyes full of feelings.Cassandra stops in front of him, knotting the reins of her horse to the porch’s railway. “Hell-”Before she can say his name, he jumps the railway and catches her in his arms, turning and turning with her until they are jiggling like children. When he puts her down, he cups his face with his fingers, kissing her lips softly. “Maker’s breath, I missed you, love.”Kissing his jaw, she wraps her arms around him. “I missed you too, Cullen.”They remain there for several minutes, just enjoying the feeling of their other half’s body. The bark of Alibear makes them come back to reality, chuckling softly. He moves his hand to her head, playing with her hair. “Is longer than the last time. Are you trying to compete with me, love?”She snorts at him, and Maker! How he had missed the sound! “Never, my Lion. You are the long haired of the couple. Now help me to bring the saddle inside and open a bottle of wine. I want to hear everything that happened since my last visit!”“Only if you tell me what had kept you away from me for four months.”He is taking off the saddle from the horse, letting it resting on the railway of the porch while Cass plays with Alibear. When he has his arms free, she stands up, giving him her back. “Well, I’ve been very busy. I travelled to Val Royeaux to talk with Leliana, sorry, the Divine, about the Seekers.” He remains at arm’s distance of her, letting her talk. “After what we learned about the Tranquils and how the order acted during the Corypheus situation has left us in a weak position to regroup. After my last visit to the north, we decided--” Cassandra turns to look at him, she wants to see his reaction. “We decided to disband the Seekers and join the Chantry as a new branch of the Templars.”The surprised frown on his face is turned quickly into one of hope. “And you?”A lopsided grin appears on her face, extending a hand until he grabs it and interlaces their fingers. “Me? I’m still the Right Hand, but it seems that I have her permission to retire from this work too. Cullen, I don’t have to leave, not tomorrow, not the next week, for as long as you want me, I’m yours.”Cullen is so shocked to talk until she presses her fingers on his hand, “Maker, tell me I’m not dreaming.”Her laugh is so free and happy that Cullen can’t believe it. “I’m very sure that I’m not sleeping, Cullen. Besides, don’t have you seen that I didn’t wear my Seeker regalia? I’m just Cassandra, for the first time in years.”He let her hand go before stealing a quick kiss from her lips. “Wait a moment here, just-- remember the feeling. I’ll come back before you knew I’m gone!”Disappearing inside the house followed by the dogs, he leaves a confused Cassandra standing in front of the porch. But less than a minute later, Cullen comes back, hiding something behind his back, and the dogs staying inside the house but watching them from the door frame. Once in front of her, he gives her a big bouquet of white roses and orange blossoms. Her smile is so bright that he feels his insides melting. Not even the scars on her angular face rest sweetness to the image of her smiling and sniffing the flowers. But he has a final touch for the moment, something he has planned for weeks now. Falling to one knee on the ground, he can see her face changing to one of surprise and the hand that isn’t holding the flowers move to her chest.“It's been a while and now i knowThat i can never ever let you goFrom the first time we met and your first helloI knew you're the one where my heart will growYou are my dream..the angel from the skyWho showed me what life is and how I can cryHow I can have someone who I can always relyTo be there forever and never say goodbyeThe one I can hug when I am in needThe one who give love.. that no one can exceedThe one who'll shed tears... if my heart ever bleedThe one I have wanted... to share my life with...So, now I ask you this... will please you take my handAnd be the person... who will always understandI want to grow old with you..i'm down in one kneeYou're the only one I'll ask… 'will you marry me?’”From his back, he produces a silver ring, engraved with little green jewels. The bouquet of flowers fall in front of him, and before he can react, she had him pinned to the ground, hugging him hard enough to stop his ability to breathe. “Yes. Yes, yes, yes and a million of time yes.”Cullen kisses her with all his love, feeling the extreme happiness to have his life complete at least. When she accepted the ring, and he slips it on her finger, he feels like a final chapter on his life has been closed, and a new one, full of light and warm feelings, begins. They were still on their cloud of happiness when the dogs join the hug, making them laugh and sit back, scratching their heads until they sit beside them. Turning to face her again, Cullen cups her nape and moves her close enough to plant a soft kiss on her lips. “I love you, Cassandra Allegra Portia Calogera Filomena Pentaghast.”“And I love you too, Cullen Stanton Rutherford.” She kisses him again, pushing him until he lays on his back with her on top. “But I will hit you anyway if you call me by my full name again.”Turning them until she lays on the grass, he towers over her, his long curls falling over his face while he grins at her. “My lovely fiancee and her sweet talking.” He kisses her until they don't know where one ends and the other begun, their hearts beating at the same rhythm. It seems that the Maker has decided to let them find some happiness at last.

[acsversace-news]

Since Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace was shot dead outside his Miami Beach home in 1997, his murder has been pored over in countless articles, books and films. Now the shooting will be examined on television next year in the award-winning American Crime Story.

Amid the speculation, Antonio D’Amico, Versace’s boyfriend of 15 years and the person who found him sprawled on the steps of the mansion, has remained remarkably taciturn. But the forthcoming series, in which he will be played by singer and actor Ricky Martin, has spurred D’Amico to speak his mind.

“There has been so much written and said about the murder, and thousands of suppositions, but not a trace of reality,” D’Amico told the Observer.

The 58-year-old has not been consulted for the series, which will be entitled American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace, and said the images he has seen online of how he reacted are incorrect.

“The picture of Ricky Martin holding the body in his arms is ridiculous,” he said, adding that it was like looking at a mimic of Michelangelo’s Pietà, which depicts the body of Jesus in the arms of his mother after the crucifixion. “Maybe it’s the director’s poetic licence, but that is not how I reacted.”

D’Amico says the tragedy of his lover’s murder on 15 July 1997 tipped him into a deep and long depression. Even now he will only briefly discuss it. Versace, who was 50 when he died, was killed shortly before 9am as he returned to his Ocean Drive home after buying a newspaper at a nearby cafe. D’Amico was drinking coffee on the veranda close to the mansion’s entrance when he heard the shots.

“I felt as if my blood had turned to ice,” he said. He and Versace’s butler went outside to investigate.

“The house had stained glass windows so we couldn’t see what had happened from inside, so we had to open the gate. I saw Gianni lying on the steps, with blood around him. At that point, everything went dark. I was pulled away, I didn’t see any more.”

Just days before, Versace had celebrated the successful launch of a collection at a show in Paris. He was shot by Andrew Cunanan, a 27-year-old gay man who had murdered at least four other people in a three-month killing spree before turning up at the fashion designer’s home. After a huge manhunt, the body of Cunanan was found eight days later in a Miami houseboat. He had apparently shot himself with the same gun that killed Versace.

Twenty years on, it is not known whether the murder was planned or carried out at random, leading to much gossip and speculation, including a rumour that Versace may have been murdered by the mafia due to debts he owed to the criminal organisation. There was also speculation that Versace may have met his killer years earlier.

D’Amico insists: “They never knew each other … so much has been fictionalised. Unfortunately Gianni died, unfortunately this guy killed him, unfortunately it happened: but now, let it drop.”

The murder tore D’Amico’s world apart. He went from partying with the likes of Elton John and Sting to shutting himself away in solitude. Meanwhile, tensions with the Versace family, in particular Gianni’s sister Donatella, put paid to him receiving what was left to him in the will – a monthly pension for life of about €26,000 and the right to live in Versace’s homes.

As the properties belonged to the Versace fashion house they came under the control of Donatella (to be played by Penélope Cruz) and older sibling Santo, as well as Gianni’s niece Allegra. D’Amico, who had been a designer at Versace Sport, received just a fraction of the pension and walked away from fighting for the rest. He then slipped into a depression lasting several years.

“I had never been through a depression and never saw a therapist as I was advised to: why did I need to tell someone else what had happened when I knew I was this way because Gianni’s death had torn me in two? I was in a nightmare, I felt nothing and gave no importance to anything … the house, the money … because it felt false to have expectations of life.”

In an interview last June, Martin, who came out as gay in 2010, spoke about a scene in the television show in which Gianni, played by Edgar Ramirez, is walking along the beach with Antonio when he suddenly becomes weak. His boyfriend touches him and Gianni responds: “Don’t touch me! The paparazzi!”

But Versace never tried to hide his sexuality, D’Amico said, and was one of the first people in the public eye to declare being gay in the late 1980s.

“We lived like a natural couple, there was never a problem,” he said. “It was the right moment for him to come out in public, but everyone involved in our world knew. He never tried to hide who he was.”

D’Amico doesn’t plan to watch American Crime Story but said he’d be happy if Martin got in contact to get some insight into his relationship with Versace. “It’s getting to know the small things about a relationship … for example, Gianni was so ordered and focused at work but in his private life everything was disorganised. He’d leave the bathroom in a mess. At a certain point I said ‘enough’! And when it came to cooking, he didn’t even know how to [boil] an egg.”

D’Amico eventually emerged from his depression after deciding it was a question of either starting to live again or stopping completely. He found love again in 2005, and now lives a simple life with his partner in the northern Italian countryside. He has also relaunched himself as a designer, recently bringing out a collection of sportswear for the golf sector.

“Sincerely, after two decades, I will always be connected to Gianni as a person I loved for more than 15 years,” D’Amico said.

“But today, I am a different person … the world continues to go around … You can look back at the past until a certain point, [but] then you need to look ahead to the future.”

[am-flying-solo]

In honor of August 13th, Solo’s birthday, I decided to re-write his old bio. Happy birthday, you bastard!

Like most stories, this one starts with a woman.

After graduating from Hogwarts, Allegra Renfield thought she’d follow a different path from her own mother - a woman born and raised in service, who’d found her death in a lake in Scotland, with pockets full of stones. But at seventeen, penniless and in debt, she told herself being a servant would be a temporary solution, just until she could get back on her feet.

Eleven years later, her son would wonder at her grave where it all went wrong.  

Gregory Flint already had grandchildren old enough to be graduating from Hogwarts when he met Allegra, then a young girl with an easy laughter and wandering eyes. He was charming, smart, wealthy, and, most importantly, married. Their age difference did nothing to  lessen the attraction they felt for each other, and if sometimes they held stolen glances for too long, or let their hands linger too close to each other while passing the sugar back and forth-- well, who could have blamed them? Allegra was a servant, moving around the manor quietly, doing all kinds of house chores - none of which involved falling in love with her master. It was never her plan to let him guide her to his dark study, or to open her legs and heart to a romance that never really stood a chance against the weight of bloodlines and duty.

But she did - and a couple of years would soon turn into a decade.

Allegra didn’t expect promises beyond closed doors and hushed whispers. She expected it to remain confined to a single moment of urgent weakness, but it never stopped - every time she would promise herself it would be their last, but like an addict, she’d welcome him in time and time again. It wasn’t in her plans to get pregnant either, but the swollen stomach was hard to hide under her uniform, and Solomon was born in the summer. If he had what seemed to be the Flint’s distinguished cheekbones, no one said anything - at least not in front of Mr. Flint and his dear wife - but people talked behind closed doors. One look at Gregory standing at the door with white lilies in one hand, and Mabel Flint on the other, and Allegra knew it. It would never matter if Solomon really had Flint blood, or if his father was some poor unknowing chap wandering Knockturn Alley - the truth didn’t matter as much as the circumstances, and the circumstances gave him his mother’s name and a blank space for a father. He would always be a Renfield, blood be damned - just like Allegra herself, who never knew her father’s name, and her mother before her, who waited for years for a sailor that never returned.

Solomon grew up at the servant’s quarters of the Flint Manor, a dimly lit space downstairs, connected to an equally dimly lit kitchen, where a long line of small rooms once hosted a robust party of servants and maids. He was never allowed in certain parts of the victorian mansion, but harsh punishments never stopped a boy’s curious mind, and soon neither did locked doors. That’s how, at a young age, Solomon bore witness to his mother’s forbidden affair - and it changed his understanding of family forever.

Neglected by an overworked mother, who spent a lot more time tending to her masters’ fragile grandson, Solomon turned out wild, and not even Mabel Flint’s resentment and his never ending list of duties as a young servant boy were enough to tame his anger - or his lust for a life beyond those walls. But when all seemed set in life for Solo to follow his mother’s footsteps, tragedy struck - Allegra Renfield rolled down the stairs and bled out all over the 18th century indian tapestry. A most terrible accident, they said, getting rid of every sign she had ever inhabited the Manor.

Ten year old Solomon suddenly found himself in a predicament: with nowhere to go and no one to turn to, his future was uncertain. Until Gregory Flint took him in, that is - much to his wife’s discontentment. Some whispered in hushed tones that he couldn’t get rid of the only remaining piece of the woman he’d loved; others, less prone to kindness, speculated that it was out of guilt - some accidents aren’t as inevitable as others. Either way, Solomon saw his life change in a blink: he was moved to a room he didn’t have to share upstairs, given better clothes, and presented to the pureblood high society as a curiosity, a charity case. Suddenly, he wasn’t confined to the kitchen anymore: he sat with the family for dinner, despite some hostility (“a savage”, Mabel Flint would call him from across the table, “an animal”). Certain things, however, remained the same: he was still a servant boy, and was to learn his place and be endlessly grateful - even if their conditional generosity felt like a tightening noose around his neck.  

The years softened his anger, and little by little, Solomon forged a place for himself in the lion’s den, turning heartbreak into a hunger for life and its mysteries that landed him in Ravenclaw. Hogwarts was his chance for a change, his chance to start over fresh, and build himself from the scratch - from a grieving bastard boy to a proud young man, the star of the dueling club, and a popular name on the lips of boys and girls alike. Determined to live life to the fullest, Solomon held nothing back in the last seven years, being known for his lewd sense of humor, generous sexual behavior and a complete disregard for good morals and public decency. To anyone with eyes, Solo just wants to have fun. However, he still awaits the day Gregory Flint will look his way, as hopeful as his mother used to be for the man’s love.

Soon, Solomon will leave Hogwarts himself, and he wants to follow a different path from his mother, and her mother before that-- but he’s penniless and lost, and history has a strange way of repeating itself.

NOW

Solomon is a debater by nature, and a devil’s advocate for fun. He’ll constantly argue for both sides of an argument, just to get a rise of people. His position hasn’t changed at the light of recent events, however - he’s still firmly against the status quo, and anti-government, even if the Minister himself has offered him a job. Solo doesn’t defend the brutal werewolf radicals - but he likes to see purebloods squirm in fear. Graduation inches closer every day, and his desire to leave the british wizarding world - and british soil, in general - grows stronger.

But for how long can a man keep running?

Maybe it’s time to make a stand.

[erunerwynter]

About my ocs bc translating my fics apparently has this effect to me

Warning: stupid shit

Kevin - half orc wizard  - tried so hard and got so far - grew in a human settlement so that’s why he has a human name - his mother didn’t hate him, which is a good thing - wants to make his mama proud by becoming the best wizard that ever existed - also bc people in his village first and the other students at the Arcanum (the magic academy of the world where all of this is setted in, Gaia) later treated him like shit bc an half-orc wizard? u gotta be kiddin - that why he a Angry SJW™ - gay af but who has time for relationship i goTTA STUDY - he tol - spiky fangs but i love him regardless - my actual son - v paranoid about his spellbook bc at the academy of magic stupid students burned his first spellbook so there’s that - my precious boi pls love him - has an halfling boyfriend, Andrej - a cat person - has a raven familiar bc Aesthetic™ - loves the smell of ink - would have supported Anders in his decision to blow up the Chantry

(putting the rest of them under a read more bc it’s gonna be long)

Andrej - halfling fighter  - has a giant wolf named Zero, that often uses as a mount - he smol, he mysteryous  - born in a tribe of nomad halflings, where he learned to fight - but then he fucked up big time and was kicked out - worked as a mercenary for a while - one day he found Zero, that was still a pupper, and adopted him - Zero is basically his best and only friend - “doggos are better then people” - has a sister that studies at the Arcanum, she’s a really good wizard - one day he visits her and meets Kevin, his future boyfriend - fights with a rapier bc Aesthetic™ - has a tattoo somewhere - “i will punch you in the dick Kevin” - embodiment of “id sell you to Satan for one corn chip” - he may look like a tough guy but he just needs to be loved - loves being the little spoon - he also gay af

Hòdur - drow alchemist - adopted by a human witch, raised in, like. the islands with the most xenophobic elves of the entire world and still managed to survive - has a stepbrother, an half-elf named Taro, and i will talk abt him later - talk shit abt Taro and he will poison u - “i dont trust all that stupid magic shit” “excuse me r u aware that ur mother is a literal witch” - rlly he just doesn’t have talent for magic so he just. decided that magic is stupid and turned to alchemy - he a Man Of Science™ - “the risk i took was calculated  but man am i bad at math” - Heterosexual Token™ - worries too much - is willing to Fuck Shit Up - hates loud noises - “why cant you all just leave me aLONE”

Taro - half-elf bard - apparently living embodiment of elves’ perfection - actually a little shit - talk shit abt Hòdur and he will kick u in the teeth - has nicknames for everyone - loves 2 embarass his big bro (bc Hòdur is the big bro) - 5 centimeters (more or less 2 inches for u englishpersons) taller than Hòdur, always reminds that to him - (this annoys Hòdur to no end) - (and that’s why Taro does it) - “so Kevin how do you and Lem do that” “FOR THE LOVE OF THE GODS TARO SHUT THE FUCK UP” (that was Hòdur) - sexuality what is that - had a thing with the blacksmith’s son - the bastard has a really smooth voice  - would wear the t-shirt that has “Sin” written on it (you know the one) - i love him holy shit

Robin - tiefling maga (the class name is actually magus but Robin is a she so) with the skirnir archetype (the base class equivalent of the prestige class of the Eldricht Knight, but with the archetype that makes her a shield mage basically) - Angst™  - wants to do the right thing and she will do it - her favourite Overwatch character would be Pharah or Reinhardt - she has a shield and she’s not afraid to use it - always stressed af does she even sleep - always hears the voices of her devilish inheritance - praying conforts her a little tho - a very religious person - well she was raised by a priestess of the god of love and compassion, so - yea she was abandoned as a child bc her parents were nobles and you can’t have a tiefling daughter that would be A Bad Thing - so a priestess adopted her and teched her how to be a rlly good person and to protect the innocent - “I BELIEVE IN U o wait did u just killed an innocent now im gonna Fuck You Up™”  - “a sex drive what is that where is sex driving does it have a license”

Ume

- sea elf shaman (hybrid class between the witch and the oracle) - like,, indecision but as a person - has an hawk as a familiar wihich is pretty strange bc she is really tied with the spirits of the sea - looks like a cinnamom roll is actually a cinnamom roll - “do you prefer red or blue” “I LOVE BOTH OF THEM U CAN’T MAKE ME CHOOSE” - the kind of fangirl who has way too many ships - likes swimming - except for that one time when she almost drowned she didn’t like swimming in that moment - Moana vibes - yeah u know moana was so good and im so weak that’s why she lives in an island and talks to the sea sometimes - there was that one time when she flirted back at Ikaro and he almost died for the surprise - she was, like, the Best Shaman Apprentice on the island but she wasn’t really sure wheter become shaman or not bc if she accepted her role she wouldn’t be able to see the world - but at the same time she loves her island and her people so - yeah she kinda gets homesick a lot - but she got to see the Arcanum and the big cities and the Moon Mountains and the Ramil Desert so there’s that - her hawk is cute, she screm - witch shaped like a friend

Ikaro

- the Human Token™, a gunslinger - dat boi - son of a gun - jesse mccree but as a pirate - birate - lovechild of Han Solo and Jesse McCree  - “im not a pirate im a buccaneer” - the fuckboiest fuckoi that ever fuckboied - tried to flirt with Ume and got a “stop embarassing yourself!” from Taro - “the loser had it coming” –cit. @eldrich-archivist - has seen some shit - stole some of that - and murdered some other - he doesn’t regret killing people, but that doesn’t mean he likes doing so - “i’m not good, i’m not bad, but i sure as hell ain’t ugly” - travelled on a pirate ship for many years - he feels like he is searching for something, in the vast seas of Gaea, but even he doesn’t know what, or who - has a Dark Past™, that’s why he’s on the run - not the captain on the ship he’s on - just one of the many men on board - (his captain is a very badass aasimar lady maybe i’ll give a backstory to her later) - sinnamom roll - flirted with Kevin and Lem almost stabbed him - then flirted with Lem and Kevin almost killed him with a lightning - also likes flirting with death - kinky af, probably into bondage - lowkey a furry

And finally, my favourite

Allegra

- dwarf sorceress/bard but a dancer - she’s mute, so she casts spell while dancing - travelled with a travelling circus - ran away from her home in the Underworld bc she’s transgender and feared that her father wouldn’t understand - her powers come from the storm (stormborn bloodline) - Taro’s nickname for her is “Lady Thunderdwarf” - Taro is also a very good friend of her, he sings for her and she dances - sometimes when she dances she summons the rain unconsciusly - her name means “happy” or “cheerful” in Italian - cinnamom roll, too good for this world, too pure - hates little and close spaces - has a birthmark that is suspiciously similar to the holy symbol of the god of the wind but?? maybe it’s a coincidence??? maybe not??? who knows - at first she can only talk with Kevin bc he’s the only one in their “party” that knows sign language but then they teach it to everyone - she and Kevin are really great friends bc they both know how it feels to be an outcast - didn’t believe in love at first sight until she met Zero - “ALLEGRA STOP THROWING MAGIC AT MY DOG HE’S BITING THIN AIR YOU’LL MAKE HIM FEEL SAD” - never came out to her dwarven family, and she regrets that a little - but she’s still scared, so she doesn’t write to them - she has two brother (one older and the other younger; the former has died) and a younger sister; her mother died when she was little so she doesn’t remember much - she doesn’t know, but her father cares deeply about her, even if he still thinks of her as a “him” - family is very important to dwarves, and she feels that Ume and Kevin and the other are like a family to her now - before she met Taro, when she was still travelling with the circus, she danced on the music of Kakeru, a young bard from the Eastern continent that is the Kukize that is very good at playing the shamisen and teached her how to read his native language and told her the myths and the legends of his land. she teached him the sign language and how to read dwarven runes - she can forge things bc that’s a thing that every dwarf learns, but she is no master of that art - i love her so much asklabaksdsksfgagsds

[pandawritespoorly]

With Time: Chapter 21 - A Cat and A Bug

Author’s Note: Sorry the update is a little late today! I had plans I'd forgotten about in the morning and didn't have the chance to post the chapter beforehand. Without further ado, chapter 21: (Heh. I'm posting chapter 21 on the 21st).

Chapter Summary: Adrien and Marinette continue to hang out at her house, dealing with the aftermath of a reveal.

First | Previous | Next

“Plagg, Claws In.”

Adrien sits in Chat’s place, watching Marinette vigilantly, as though he can stop what has already happened.

“How are you doin’ kid?” Plagg sits next to Tikki on the cat pillow.

“I don’t know Plagg… she’s been right here this whole time. Shouldn’t I have realized? I was - am - so worried and I wanted to be there, and I didn’t even realize I already was there,” he looks to the Kwami, “Shouldn’t I have recognized her?”

“Adrien, the miraculous keeps you from recognizing each other. You still saw that they were similar people. Heck, you called her an ‘everyday Ladybug’. You recognized her as best you could without knowing they were one and the same.”

“Do you think she’ll be okay?”

“I think she’s getting better, and it will help now that you know and are in her everyday life. She’s not entirely better, I mean, sheesh, that paper she wrote…”

“Ladybug wrote that paper. About herself,” he covers his mouth at the realization, glancing down at the sleeping girl, “Oh, Mari…”

He notices the fallen notebook, picking it up. He’s about to put it back, but, well, curiosity killed the cat. It’s not like it’s her diary.

He opens it up.

 Things to Accept:

You messed up.

Everyone Most people at Françoise Dupont hate you

You don’t know how to do friendship properly. 

People want to believe you’re a bad person

You’re a terrible hero, and Paris deserves better.

You’re an obsessive stalker-ish creep.

No one actually likes you.

You shouldn’t be trusted with responsibility

 It just keeps going. He turns the page, hoping for an end, and instead is met with another list.

 Rules To Be Better:

Don’t cry

Smile

Be nice to people

Apologize when you mess up (again)

If someone needs a favor, do it

If asked, you’re doing good

Laugh at jokes, even when tired/sick

When tired/sick, do not show it

Take care of akumas as quickly as possible

Only lie if absolutely necessary - honesty is important

Adrien, Claude, Allegra, Allan, and Felix have been nice enough to put up with you, don’t make them regret it.

Don’t do anything that could attract an akuma to you

 He feels the tears prick at his eyes and shuts the book, ignoring the rest of the content. He’s seen enough.

“Kid?” Plagg has noticed his distress, “Adrien, what happened?”

Adrien hands him the book wordlessly. The God flips through it, frowning, “She must have kept this from Tikki too. When did she make this?” “How long has that been there?!”

Marinette shuffles in the bed, but shows no other sign of waking.

He looks to her again, he wants nothing more than to scoop her up and take her somewhere safe where those people can’t get to her.

He puts the notebook on the shelf, but at the front, where he can see it. No way he’s leaving without addressing that.

As if he’d be able to forget it.

“Kitten, you should rest.” Plagg, looks at him sincerely.

“But Mari-” “Pigtails is sleeping. It’s winter, she won’t wake up before you. Take a nap.”

“I don’t want to leave her…”

“So don’t! You’re a cat! Flop on top of her. You’re basically a heated blanket, she won’t mind, you’ve done it during patrol before anyways.”

Plagg has a point. Adrien sighs, falling across his friend and blinking at her slowly before he falls asleep too.

--- 

As usual, it doesn’t take much for him to wake up. He hears some shuffling, and shoots up, glancing around him to be sure nothing is wrong.

He notices Marinette first - she’ll always be the one he’s drawn to. She’s almost awake. Now that he knows she’s Ladybug, he knows how to read her even easier. Her room is warm enough now, and with him right there, she’s about as awake as she ever is in the winter.

Well, she will be in a moment.

“Kitten, you should transform, you don’t want to stress her out too much.”

“Plagg’s right. It’s been quite the day, let her know if you’re going to detransform.” Tikki is awake too.

Adrien nods, transforming as she comes to. She doesn’t notice him as she props herself up on an elbow, but he sees the moment everything catches up to her and the tears that come to her anguished face break his heart.

“Mari?” He speaks softly, so as to not startle her.

“Chat?”

“How much do you remember of what happened?” If she doesn’t remember much he’ll try and spare her of the worst bits.

She’s silent, and he can see every expression as she relives what happened. It would seem she remembers quite a bit then. She pauses, frowning in confusion.

“I- Did I- Do you… do you know who I am now?” She sounds almost horrified, and he guesses she’s being too harsh on herself. He wants to tell her this isn’t a bad thing - shout it until it gets through, but that would only turn out badly.

He settles for smiling softly, ”I do. You’re amazing, Princess.”

“A-are you sure?”��

“I am absolutely certain. You are my fa-fur-ite purr-son.” He sneaks some puns in, hoping to draw her away from what must be a negative train of thought.

She scowls at him half-heartedly. She hesitates, looking uncertain, “So, you’re not...you’re not disappointed?” she gets quieter as she speaks, looking away and unable to meet his gaze.

“Oh, Bug. Never.”

She smiles, but she doesn’t seem entirely convinced.

“Do you want to detransform?” “Do you want me to? It’s alright if you don’t want to know.”

She shakes her head, ”No, it’s only fair.”

He nods, willing the transformation away silently.

Adrien sits in front of her, and Plagg flies off to be near Tikki, who has been watching silently. This isn’t for them, it’s between their chosens.

Marinette sees him, and sits shocked for a moment as she processes this.

Something seems to occur to her, and a smile slips onto her face. She covers it with her hand, but the grin only grows, turning into soft giggles, before she’s fully laughing.

It’s the most beautiful sound he’s ever heard.

“What? Adrien Agreste running around in a cat costume too much for you?”

She shakes her head, still trying to muffle her laughter and hiding her smile behind her hand, “No- no! It’s, it’s- It was a square! The whole time! It was a love square!”

He doesn’t quite get what she’s getting at, cocking his head at her, eyes shining in merriment, “What now?”

“Okay- okay. So-” She’s really trying her best to explain between her fits of laughter, “So. You, liked Ladybug, and Marinette was ‘just a friend’-” she held off the laughter too long and it spills out again.

He waits patiently.

“Ladybug wouldn’t date Chat Noir because she liked Adrien, and we were just-” She speaks through her continued laughter, “Stuck in a love square! We liked the opposite sides of each other- well I liked both -but it’s funny because it’s just so stupid!” she breaks into laughter again.

He takes a moment to process what she said, and he doesn’t ask for confirmation, because it feels right - fitting - that they both liked both sides of each other - and he’d hate to interrupt Marinette’s joyousness. It’s contagious, and soon he’s laughing too.

“I guess the square is a line now.” he says after they’ve begun recovering.

She seems surprised, almost as if she’d assumed he no longer cared for her, “Y-yeah, I guess it is.”

They sit in a comfortable silence for a moment, then her eyes land on the notebook, immediately noting its incorrect position. She turns to him - panicked.

“D-did you s-see that?”

“I did. It fell when I came in.”

“I-I-I’m sorry. I-” Her hands are shaking with her voice, he can see the horror on her face.

He cups her hands carefully.

“Marinette. You shouldn’t be apologizing. Not everything is your fault.”

“B-but-”

“Marinette. Trust me. You’re trying to take all this blame and it’s not for you. You haven’t been able to move forward because you’re still dwelling on it - you’re trying to figure out ‘where you went wrong’ but you haven’t been able to figure it out because you didn’t.”

She shakes her head.

He grabs the notebook, opening it up. He points at the first point.

 You messed up.

 “We’re going to go through each of them okay? You’ll explain why it’s there, and I’ll correct it. Can you do that?”

She nods hesitantly, “That one’s obvious. They all turned on me because- because I did something wrong, They’re good people, so I must have done something bad to earn it.”

Oh, he hopes his heart will make it through this.

“Or. They messed up. Good people can make mistakes too.” Not that some of them deserve that title anymore, but if he’s trying to correct her, he can’t shove a bunch of opposites at her, “They made the mistake of believing Lila, because they got so hooked on her stories that they forgot that you matter just as much.”

She looks doubtful, but nods, pointing to the next one.

 Everyone Most people at Françoise Dupont hate you

 “Lila turned everyone there against me. They hate me now.” She says it like it’s just as obvious as the last one.

“Not ‘everyone’. You crossed that out.”

“Well, except for you.”

“Okay, but not even most people there like Lila. It’s only Bustier’s class. The rest of the school is completely indifferent to her. Even most of the class doesn’t hate you.”

“Alya hates me. So does Lila.”

“So that’s, what? Two out of 15?”

“14.”

“15. Markov counts. As for the rest of the school, most people like you! I’ve heard several people still talking about you, they miss you. Everyone thinks my class is completely insane.”

She smiles a little at that, moving to the next one.

 You don’t know how to do friendship properly. 

 “I messed up the only close friendship I had. In a single day.”

“It wasn’t in a single day. It was months of Lila weaseling her way in between you and Alya so that your friendship was weak. She knew she had to separate you two so that she could get to you more easily. If you need more proof that you are capable of being a good friend, I can always text the group chat. Claude would probably find a way to teleport here.”

She smiles, “They probably would. Allegra would start a mob.”

 People want to believe you’re a bad person

 “Lila said she only tells people what they want to hear, and when she told them I bullied her, they believed it.” “That’s how she starts. Frog-in-a-pot style. She says little things that’ll get her attention and sympathy. Once she’s in people’s good graces, she begins dropping small things that are harder to believe. By that point she’s trusted, and she starts small enough that she can build up to bigger things. She had months, Marinette. Months to do all that.”

 You’re a terrible hero, and Paris deserves better.

 “I messed up a bunch. I’ve gotten hit by a bunch of akumas, and I fell off the Eiffel Tower. I keep attracting akumas - that’s the opposite of what I’m supposed to do.”

“I’ve gotten hit even more than you. Does that make me a bad hero?”

“No! Never!” She sounds both horrified and furious, but he continues.

“Exactly. As for the akumas, you’ve fought off every single one. That’s heroic, and as sad as I am that you had to do those things, I’m so proud and impressed. I knew you were amazing.”

She blushes, moving hurriedly to the next one.

 You’re an obsessive stalker-ish creep.

 “I had gifts for you for years. Like, for years into the future. I had your schedule memorized and on a chart, and I had all those pictures…”

“Marinette. You made gifts, and I’m certain they were based around things I liked, not what you wanted me to like. You got rid of them though, so it doesn’t matter right now. You had my schedule memorized, I don’t even have it memorized. You weren’t using it to stalk me, to my knowledge-”

“No! I only used it to figure out when we could hang out! All of us! Since you were always so busy! I only used it to steal your phone once-”

“You what?”

“Moving on-” “That was you?!”

“Moving on!”

 No one actually likes you.

 “People wouldn’t actually want to hang out with-” She cuts herself off.

“What?”

“I think that one is phrased wrong?”

“I think that one is wrong. I told you, people at school miss you. You made an impact - a positive one. Claude, Allegra, Allan, and Felix love you. I love you! All of Paris loves you!”

She blushes.

 You shouldn’t be trusted with responsibility

 “I’m a bad hero, and I was a bad class president.”

“We’ve already been over the fact that you’re a fantastic hero, and you were a great class president. You listened to what people wanted and tried to fulfill requests. You planned events well.” She nods. Then nods again, slower. He takes in the way she’s slumping slightly, and smiles at her, “Do you want to leave your bed? You can be closer to the heaters if you’re on the floor.

They climb down, and lean against her chaise lounge, he grabs a blanket and their phones, settling it over them. Tikki and Plagg stay on the bed, catching up.

Once he sits again, Marinette leans into him, cuddling as close as she can to his warmth and holding the blanket tightly.

He could look at his phone, but for now, he just wants to sit with her and appreciate the fact that he finally knows who she is.

He loves her so much.

The snow is really coming down now, fully blizzarding. Marinette’s breathing has evened out and her grip on the blanket has loosened.

Their phones ding.

Checking his, he sees an ongoing conversation in the group chat.

 The Mom Friend: is evryone safe inside? theres gunna be a blizzard

The Mom Friend: how r u holding up mari

 Kid Mime: i’m at home!!! im watching a bunch of disney and i have hot chocolate and popcorn!!!!

Kid Mime: ariel could have tried miming

Kid Mime: it realy could hav helpd her

 Melodie: I’m home. Just made hot chocolate for my brothers. I’ve got some too.

 Felix: I am also at home.

 The Mom Friend: same here

The Mom Friend: mari? u sleeping?

The Mom Friend: adrien u still at her place?

 A is for Awesome: Yep!

A is for Awesome: She fell asleep on me while we were doing homework.

 The Mom Friend: ok im glad shes not outside

 Melodie: How long did she last once the snow started?

 A is for Awesome: She fell asleep immediately, then she woke up and we talked for a while, and she fell asleep again.

 Kid Mime: when she wakes up tell her i said hi

Kid Mime: and i love her

Kid Mime: and that shes gud desiner

 A is for Awesome: I will!

 The Mom Friend: remind her 2 eat

The Mom Friend: an everythin claude said

 A is for Awesome: So, um. It may or may not be the case that neither of us have eaten at all today? We may or may not have both completely forgotten.

 The Mom Friend: …

The Mom Friend: wat wud u guys do without me?

 Felix: Die. You and I are the only reasonable ones in this group, but while you intervene, I am content to simply watch them make poor choices.

 Melodie: HEY! I’m reasonable!

 The Mom Friend: u 2 need to eat. same goes to any1 else in this chat that need a reminder

 Kid Mime: wat about /u/ allan????

Kid Mime: have /u/ eatn recntly?????

 The Mom Friend: i am eating a sandwich rite now

 A is for Awesome: I’ll have Mari and I eat something.

 Before he does so, there’s something else he has to do. He separates himself from Marinette carefully. It’s difficult because being a superhero has made her strong and she doesn't want to give up her heat source, but he manages to escape.

She lies on the floor, frowning. He’ll make this quick. He climbs up to her bed, grabbing the notebook, and rips out the pages she’s written on. He carefully writes his own version of the things she’s put in, before putting it back where it belongs.

“Plagg, I’m gonna’ transform quick.” He warns the Kwami, who nods in understanding.

“Claws out!” Chat Noir grips the torn pages and moves to the balcony. The air whips around him violently, his black suit a stark contrast to the white flakes all around him. The city is coated in snow, and he can see his breath when he exhales heavily.

He looks at the revolting papers in his ringed hand. 

“Cataclysm.”

He watches the dust blow away with the wind, then turns back to the trapdoor, letting himself inside.

He releases the transformation before his ring even beeps, and hands Plagg some cheese as he returns to his Lady. She’s still on the floor, laying on her side, seemingly working on waking up, but only squinting and frowning at the ground.

He lays down on his stomach, looking at her.

“Hi Princess.”

She looks up to see he’s returned and her face lights up, though the exhaustion is still clear, “Kitty!”

“Are you hungry? Neither of us have eaten.”

“Don’ need t’ eat.” Maybe the blizzard has gotten to her. She’s on the edge of her ladybug-mindset, thinking she doesn’t need to eat if she’s in hibernation.

“I doubt that. Would you like to get something to eat with me?”

She shakes her head, “‘ugs?” She reaches one hand toward him weakly.

He holds her offered hand in his own, “What if I give you a hug, and then you eat. You can sit next to me.”

She finds this to be an acceptable compromise and nods.

He scoops her up and carries her down the stairs. On the way he comments, “Claude wanted me to say hi to you for him, and that he loves you, and that you’re a good designer Allan agreed, though he also wanted me to remind you to eat.”

“‘re nice.”

He sets her down gently at the table extracting himself from her arms. He sets water in front of her while he makes a sandwich for himself. There’s a variety of fruit in the fridge.

Ha! Winter brings out the ladybug in Marinette, and now that he knows she’s a ladybug, he can play into that. The superhero duo know each other’s tendencies well, and he spent a lot of last year bringing fruit to patrol in case she’d forgotten to eat. It was one of the few foods that the ladybug in her would accept without much fuss.

He gets a small bowl and mixes a variety of fruit together for her, being sure to give her lots of grapes. He gives her the bowl and grabs his sandwich and water to sit next to her.

She’s resting her head against the table, already asleep again. The kitchen isn’t as warm as her room.

“Hey, it’s time to eat.” He nudges her carefully, and she glances over to him drowsily. He points out the bowl to her and when she registers its contents she flashes him a stunning smile, eating slowly.

He eats too, finishing well before her. She’s eaten maybe a quarter of the small bowl before she slows more, tipping towards the table. He moves the dishes out of the way to avoid her face-planting onto them.

He grabs her hand, leading her up to her room again so that the heat can wake her up. For now, he settles for wrapping her up in the blanket again. The Marinette-burrito flops onto his lap.

 A is for Awesome: We ate.

 The Mom Friend: good

 He finishes the rest of his math homework. That’s all he’s got. It’s winter break now (thank goodness, otherwise he wouldn’t be able to keep from doing something to Alya) so he’s free. At least for the next few hours that is, then he’s back to his jam-packed schedule. He should give himself another assignment…

Adrien thinks for a moment, trying to think of something for him to do while he’s stuck at Marinette’s.

He thinks back to her laughter following his reveal. That’ll be his goal.

Maybe he can record her this time. He loves her laugh.

She’s laughed at puns before, it just takes a lot. He’ll start there.

Poking her a few times until she blinks up at him, he says, “Do you want a brief explanation of what an acorn is? In a nutshell, it’s an oak tree.”

“...okay.”

She’s too serious for this. She missed his pun!

“Mariiiiii!”

She blinks more, “...hi?”

“Here. Sit up.” He gets her to lean against his shoulder. Close enough.

“Why?” She sounds confused, probably because he just woke her up. She’d have woken up soon anyways. Otherwise it wouldn’t have been so easy to get her to look at and talk to him.

“You’ve been sleeping for a while. I want to talk to you.” She moves to sit across from him, squinting at him suspiciously.

“You were bored, weren’t you?”

“Purr-haps.”

She groans, “You woke me up for puns.”

“Actually, I wanted to tell you that I just got over my addiction to marshmallows, chocolate, and peanuts. I’m not gonna lie, it was a rocky road.” She looks out at the blizzard desperately, “Winter take me.”

“I’m a big fan of whiteboards. I find them quite re-markable.

“I asked my friend if she likes to play video games. She said, ‘Wii.’”

“Oh dear Kwami.”

“The machine at the coin factory just suddenly stopped working, with no explanation. It doesn’t make any cents!”

She shakes her head, but she’s too tired to keep the facade up for long. He knows she likes his puns. 

He leans forward, grinning, “I’m only friends with 25 letters of the alphabet. I don’t know Y.”

“Neither do I. Why are you like this?”

She’d added on, he’s certain he’ll catch her soon. He readies his phone out of sight.

“Why can’t you run through a campground?”

She only raises an eyebrow.

“You can only ran, because it’s past tents!” He beams at her innocently, “A man sued an airline company after it lost his luggage. Sadly, he lost his case.”

“Poor guy.” She’s looking away, focusing elsewhere.

“So what if I can’t spell Armageddon? It’s not the end of the world.”

She can’t hold out forever.

“How about bird puns, they’re very egg-citing.”

He’s got plenty of material.

“You don’t seem very emused.”

“Trying to annoy me with bird puns? Well, toucan play at that game!” She retorts.

He gasps delightedly, “You punned at me!”

As expected, the dam soon breaks and she starts snickering, covering her mouth. It evolves further until she’s fully laughing again. He’s been recording her, and encouraging her with dumb faces and jokes too quiet for the camera.

He wants to tell her to stop covering her face, but pointing out the habit will only embarrass her, and then she’d stop laughing. She drops it as the laughs die down, smiling at him.

Noticing his smug face, she shakes her head,“Was that your goal? Really?”

He holds up his phone, “I wanted to be able to hear your laugh whenever. It’s been saved.”

“Oh you did not.”

“I did. And now… it’s been sent to the group chat!”

“We will get no peace.” 

As soon as she says it, their phones go off. Checking it, they see Claude has been the first to view the video.

 Kid Mime: MARINETTE U SOUND ADORABLE Kid Mime: DID ADRIEN ALREADY TELL U THAT I LOVE U Kid Mime: I LOVE UR LAUGH Kid Mime: ADRIEN TEACH ME UR WAYS

 A is for Awesome: Puns.

 Kid Mime: IM ALREADY ON GOOGLE Kid Mime: I NEED EVERY PUN

Kid Mime: E V E R Y P U N

 Melodie: We’ll never get a break now.

Melodie: It’s nice to see you laugh, Marinette.

 Patisserie Princess: im never leaving the house

Patisserie Princess: i laughed at a pun

Patisserie Princess: i /made/ a pun

 Felix: Understandable. I will try to visit often.

Felix: I suspect you have been spending too much time with Claude and Adrien.

 The Mom Friend: aw mari

The Mom Friend: u gotta leave the house eventually

 Patisserie Princess: do I?

 Kid Mime: I WILL COME TO U Kid Mime: ADRIEN HOW MANY PUNS DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE HER LAUGH

 A is for Awesome: Depends on how tired she is.

A is for Awesome: Just don’t stop. Don’t give her a chance to recover.

 Kid Mime: ALRIGHT I WILL KEEP THAT IN MIND

 Melodie: The floodgates have been opened.

 Felix: Indeed.

 Kid Mime: IM GONNA RESEARCH PUNS Kid Mime: BYE

Kid Mime: LUV U GUYS

 The Mom Friend: bye

 Melodie: Bye.

 Patisserie Princess: bye!

Felix: Goodbye.

 A is for Awesome: Bye!

---

Author’s Note: These babies are cute. I love them so much.

The next chapter will be Wednesday, for Christmas. Just fluff, the purpose of the chapter is really just for the sake of all of them interacting in an angst-free way. So you get a bonus chapter. That's not all though! I really want to write a interlude of Tikki and Plagg's conversation in this chapter. It wouldn't really fit in here, and adding it as a chapter feels weird seeing as it would be sort of out-of-order. I'll post it as a separate one-shot, and leave a link here when it's up.

Hey! You all remember Honey Bee? Well a lovely little angel drew her! She looks so great, and I love it so much, link is here!

I haven't been writing much this month (apologies to those wanting chapter 2 of A Shy 'Sparrow'), this week in particular has been stressful. With my being on break now, I think I'll be able to write more. I had a few things that really struck me and I wanted to write them so we'll see how things go!

I feel like I'm forgetting something. If I remember it I'll edit this note.

Thanks for reading! Feel free to leave any thoughts, theories, constructive criticism, or anything really in my ask box, in replies or through reblogs. I love seeing what you think!

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[find-the-eyes]

I’ll Try Anything Once, Chapter 48.5 (aka the Nilex Date Oneshot)

Written by: Allegra, Sol

Edited by: Allegra

—

Nick was still getting used to being off the ventilator. It had only been a few hours, but it was already easier for him to breathe on his own. As he wobbled around the flat, happy just to be back on his feet, Alex stopped him.

“I think we should go on a real date, Nick. It’s about time.”

Nick grinned and blushed. “Yeah. It’s time.”

“I think I know a good restaurant we could go to tonight,” Alex smiled and reached for the phone, “I’ll make a reservation.”

Nick nodded and went to sit on the couch, his legs tired from walking around the flat. He threw his crutches aside. A date. At a restaurant. Nick thought back to the last time he’d been anywhere fancy, which was… never. He had gotten so used to eating cheese sandwiches with Lukas that Alex’s home cooked meals deserved Michelin stars.

"Alright, we're all set for 7:30!" Alex walked back into the room and set his phone on the table. "Want to go get ready?"

"Get ready?" Nick asked, looking down at his hoodie-and-jeans combo. "We're not ready?"

"We have to dress up! Come on!" Alex bounded off to the bedroom. Nick grabbed his crutches and followed behind as best as he could.

Nick rummaged around his bedroom for a proper outfit, but didn’t know what to look for. What about what he wore onstage? That should be good enough.

“Uh… I don’t think that’s a good look for tonight,” Alex laughed softly as Nick came out of his bedroom in a red and blue patterned shirt and white dress pants. “You look like the flag of the UK.”

Nick frowned slightly and began to retreat back into his room, wobbling a bit on his crutches from standing for so long.

“No, wait, I’ll help you.” Alex followed Nick, holding Nick's shoulders as he sat down carefully on the bed and leaned his crutches against the wall. "You get undressed and I'll look in your closet."

"Trying to get me naked?" Nick said with an impish grin. Alex raised his eyebrows. Nick was flirting? This was new and unexpected. And nice.

"And what if I am?" Alex attempted to wiggle his eyebrows at Nick, who simply giggled and began unbuttoning his shirt. Alex turned back to the closet and the task at hand. He shuffled through Nick’s clothes, trying to find something that would work. Although he and Nick had gone out to look for clothes before he was injured, he still couldn’t find much in Nick’s closet.

Nick watched Alex from the bed, worried that his rummaging hands would come across a stray bottle cap or straw that he pocketed somewhere. He didn't want Alex to find out and throw it away.

“Hm… I think you have some pants in here that would go well with one of my shirts,” Alex suggested, tossing a pair of pants to Nick. “I’ll be right back.”

Alex went to his room and pulled out a light blue shirt from his closet. It was a bit small on him, anyway, and Nick would probably like it. He returned to Nick's room, holding the shirt up in front of his face triumphantly. "What do you think?"

"Good..." Nick said softly. Alex lowered his hands and only then did he realize that while Nick had removed his pants with no trouble, his shirt still hung unbuttoned on his shoulders.

"Oh...do you need help?"

Nick nodded, looking slightly ashamed. "It hurts to lift them..."

Alex got right to work, slipping the red and blue shirt off his arms and replacing it with the pale blue one.

Nick smiled when he saw his finished outfit. After two months of dressing for bed, Nick was happy to be wearing something a bit more classy. He stood up and took a few wobbly steps to the mirror, his face lighting up at the sight. "Thanks," he said. "I love it."

Alex came up behind Nick and wrapped his arms around him. "You look amazing," he said with a small smile. He grabbed Nick by the waist and turned him around, meeting his gaze and pulling him in for a kiss. Nick made the softest, sweetest noise that Alex had ever heard and his heart melted. This was nothing like the way Nick had attacked Alex in the car earlier, but it still felt so right. Alex loved Nick. And right now, he needed to show him.

"Love you," Nick breathed, as if reading Alex's mind. He locked his arms around Alex's waist and kissed him back deeply.

After a few minutes of kissing, holding, touching, Alex broke away. "I need to go get dressed or we're never going to leave this flat." He grinned and gave Nick one more kiss on the cheek before heading to his own room. Nick plopped himself back on the bed to rest, his face flushed.

Alex came back a few minutes later to get Nick to bring him to the car. “Are you ready?”

Nick nodded excitedly and grinned up at Alex. He admired Alex's pink shirt and black tie, tucked loosely into skinny black trousers. Alex helped him up and handed him his crutches.

“If you get tired, just let me know,” he said softly, kissing Nick’s forehead.

They made their way down to the car slowly, but Alex assured Nick that they would make it to their reservation on time. Nick was out of breath by the time they reached the car.

"Want me to bring your wheelchair just in case?" Alex asked. At Nick's nod, Alex dashed back inside, returning a few moments later with the chair. He helped Nick into the passenger seat and placed the wheelchair in the back like so many times before.

“You did a great job getting down here,” Alex smiled as he reached to squeeze Nick’s hand. Nick smiled back, though he was puzzled as to why Alex was telling him this. Did he do a great job? He didn't feel like he had. He hadn't been able to get to the car without losing his breath. He hadn't even been able to change his own shirt. He probably didn't even deserve to be going on this date. Nick bit his lip and willed his anxiety to disappear. He squeezed Alex's hand back without saying anything.

By the time they arrived at the fanciest Japanese restaurant around, Nick had caught his breath and was ready to go. He opted for his crutches and off they went.

Nick immediately froze when they walked in. There were so many people, all looking so comfortable and happy… Alex looked confident as well. Somehow, Nick just hadn’t accepted that going out for dinner was a normal thing to do. He sighed to shake his bad thoughts away and tried to see the bright side. He was spending time with Alex and had finally made it out of the flat. You're being silly, he thought to himself. Everything is fine.

As the hostess led them through the restaurant, Nick could feel all eyes on him as he slowly hobbled along on his crutches. They were all staring at him, he knew it. They thought he was weird. They were going to laugh about him after he passed by.

Nick was already out of breath by the time they reached the table. The ambient lighting and loud atmosphere didn’t help, either. He was overwhelmed, and Alex could see it. Did he make the right decision by bringing Nick on a date so soon after he was cleared?

Nick watched as the waitress filled up his glass with water. It swirled and bubbled in the glass, and Nick was so thirsty from walking so far. But… he couldn’t bring himself to drink it. Alex looked at Nick and took a sip from his glass, trying to signal that it was ok to drink it. Nick picked up his glass and took a small sip. Everything was ok. He smiled and drank more, managing to drink the whole thing before Alex even drank half of his.

“What do you think you’re going to order, Nick?” Alex asked from across the table, looking happy and just a bit too comfortable being out of the flat.

Nick looked down at the menu. The words were all jumbled and the lack of pictures didn’t help. He looked back up at Alex and shrugged.

“What are you in the mood for?”

Nick thought for a moment, not used to having a choice. “Noodles? Pasta?” he said quietly.

Alex smiled and directed Nick to the udon section of the menu, “I think you’ll like udon!”

“Oh...okay…” Nick studied the page, reading the descriptions of all of the dishes but not retaining any of them. The words all blended together, swirling around. He decided that he would just have to trust Alex’s judgment.

The waitress returned a few minutes later and looked at them expectantly. Nick followed what Alex was doing and closed his menu. He tried to take a deep breath as he prepared himself to order. “Can I...have...udon? Please?” Nick said softly. He looked up at Alex, afraid that he had done something wrong. Alex gave him an encouraging nod.

“Okay, what kind?” Nick froze. He actually had done something wrong. Trying his hardest not to panic, he opened the menu to the udon section again. The words still weren’t making sense. He had no idea what to do.

“Miso udon,” Alex said calmly, looking at Nick. “I think you’ll like that.” The waitress nodded. Nick stared at Alex, wanting to thank him but not finding the words fast enough. “I’ll have the same.”

The waitress jotted the order down. “And to drink?”

“Water is fine for both of us. And can we also have a rainbow roll?”

“Sure! Your food will be out shortly.”

Nick looked back up at Alex as soon as the waitress walked away, relieved to finally be done ordering.

“That was great!” Alex grinned, trying to encourage Nick to feel more confident about his social skills.

“Really…?” Nick smiled to himself.

“Yeah!” Alex laughed, “you’ve really come so far since I met you. I’m proud of you!”

Nick giggled softly, looking back down at the table. That was a habit he was going to have to break. Back home, showing weakness was a death sentence.

After a few minutes of chatting, Alex’s rainbow roll finally came. Nick observed it, and thought about asking Alex if he could have some. Before he could say anything, Alex split the roll in half and dropped half onto Nick’s plate.

“This is a rainbow roll,” Alex explained, “there’s crab and avocado on the inside and there’s fish on top! Yours have salmon and tuna on top. I saved the more exotic stuff for mine, don’t worry.”

Nick nodded, a bit apprehensive about trying the roll. He looked down at the table and found chopsticks. He looked up at Alex again, confused.

“Like this,” Alex showed Nick how to hold them. After Nick tried and failed, he helped position Nick’s hand. “There.” Nick nodded and carefully lifted a piece of the roll up to his face. He took a moment to inspect it - he'd never had sushi before, but it certainly looked pretty. He attempted to eat a small bite of it before Alex interjected, "It's easier to eat it all at once. You can spit it out if you don't like it. I won't mind."

Nick took one final look before popping the entire piece in his mouth. He chewed carefully. It was like nothing he had ever eaten before, but it was surprisingly good.

“You like it?” Alex asked, beaming.

Nick nodded and gave Alex and thumbs up. He enjoyed getting to try new things with Alex, and food was no exception.

The rest of the evening passed uneventfully, Nick and Alex savoring their sushi and noodles. As it turned out, Alex had been right - Nick loved his miso udon. The salty broth and soft noodles were a delight. It made him feel warm and cozy, a lot like Lukas’s grilled cheese, but definitely much better. It was comforting.

Alex slipped his arm around Nick’s waist as they made their way back out to the car. Nick awkwardly craned his neck to press a kiss against Alex’s shoulder. Alex giggled and gave Nick a squeeze. “I’m so glad we can finally go on dates,” he said, fumbling around in his coat pocket with his free hand.

“Me too,” Nick replied, shivering slightly as a breeze hit them. “Let’s do it again soon?”

“Of course!” Alex finally pulled his car keys out of his pocket. “But this date isn’t over…”

“It’s not? Where are we going?”

“You’ll see,” Alex smiled as he unlocked the passenger door for Nick.

The buildings and trees and traffic lights whizzed by as Alex drove them down roads that Nick had never seen before. Even though he had lived in the city for nearly half a year, there was still so much of Glasgow that Nick hadn’t gotten to explore yet, particularly since he had barely been outside for the last two months. Nick watched as the city lights turned into fields and blinking cell towers. Finally. Alex flicked on the radio and smiled as Heavy Metal Drummer by Wilco faded in.

“Y’know, Nick, I think I fell in love with a drummer too,” Alex grinned as he tapped along to the beat of the song.

Nick looked up quizzically, wondering if Alex had finally found someone else to love.

“Well, wasn’t that the instrument you wanted to play in the band at first?” He laughed and reached over to squeeze Nick’s hand.

Nick nodded and laughed, eyes sparkling. “I’m in love with…” Nick looked up at Alex, his face glowing in the streetlights and the moonlight, “you.”

Alex lifted Nick’s hand and kissed it. “And I’m in love with you, Nitzki.”

Nick hummed softly and leaned back in his seat. “Where are we going, anyway? There’s nothing out here…”

“You’ll see,” Alex said again. “Be patient.” Nick nodded and continued staring out the window.

A few minutes later, Alex turned into a small car park off the side of the road. The area was quiet and still - and very, very dark, Nick noticed, aside from a couple of street lamps illuminating the parking area. Nick took a deep breath of the frigid winter air as he climbed out of the car, situating himself on his crutches. He had missed this.

“Ready?” Alex asked as he walked around the side of the car, holding a blanket that he had retrieved from the boot.

“Yeah…” Nick said, hesitantly. “I’m not really sure what I’m ready for…”

“Remember that night we were looking out the window and you told me that you’ve never gone stargazing before?”

“Stargazing!” Nick yelled, slightly taken aback at just how loud his voice was. He grinned and walked over to Alex, placing a firm kiss on his lips. “Let’s go!”

“Alright!” They walked across the car park and into a worn path in a field. As they approached the large hill looming above them, Nick looked up nervously. “It’s really steep…”

Alex looked up too. “Okay...well...do you think you can walk? I’ll hold you up…”

Nick took a deep breath and nodded. He wasn’t entirely sure if he could, but he also wasn’t going to let this night be a complete failure.

Alex shifted the blanket to his left arm and placed his right around Nick’s shoulders. “You got it,” he reassured him. They began to walk, slowly but steadily up the hill. Alex tried to sense how Nick was feeling, gauging when he needed to slow down to give Nick a break.

Alex was thrilled that Nick was walking at all, let alone up a hill in the middle of the night. No sooner had this thought formed in his mind than Nick suddenly stumbled and nearly toppled over backwards. Alex wrapped both of his arms around Nick now, holding him tighter. “Are you alright?!”

Nick felt dazed as he stopped to catch his breath. “Yeah...I’m fine.” He pressed on, leaning back into Alex’s embrace for support.

Once they reached the top, Alex spread the blanket across the grass and sat. Nick plopped down beside him, laying his crutches in the grass. Nick paused for a moment to admire the view. In the distance, he could just barely make out the city lights of Glasgow. Above them lay only stars.

Alex scooted closer to Nick, then wrapped the edge of the blanket over them as best as he could. The two of them laid quietly for a while, taking in the night sky and the cold December air. Alex snuggled against Nick's side and wrapped his arms around Nick. Nick reached up with his left hand and clutched Alex's tightly. They exchanged soft kisses as they snuggled. As content as Nick was, happier than he had been in months, he still felt himself beginning to shiver furiously.

Alex pulled the blanket tightly around them. "Alright?" he asked. "We can go back to the car if you need to…"

Nick shook his head. "Want to stay…"

"Me too," Alex replied, smiling. He slipped a leg over Nick's, seeking any sort of contact. Anything to make sure Nick was okay. He gave Nick a kiss on his cheek, then on his forehead. "Do you know how much I love you?"

Nick beamed and reached to snuggle Alex. “Not as much as I love you,” Nick murmured and nuzzled Alex gently.

Alex smiled and reached up to stroke Nick’s cheek. When he did, it felt cold. Almost as cold as the air around them. “Ah… Nick?”

“Y-Yeah?”

“You’re ice cold. Are you sure you don’t want to go back to the car?” Nick shook his head and held Alex tighter. His entire body was shivering, but he tried his best to conceal it under the blanket. "Nick... we've got to go." Alex couldn't bear the thought of Nick going back to the hospital again. Maybe this had been a terrible idea. Maybe Alex had inadvertently set Nick's progress back. He stood up suddenly and grabbed Nick's hands to try and pull him up.

“Alex, come on!” Nick felt himself getting frustrated. They had spent all this time struggling to get to the top of the hill and this is how it was going to end? He yanked Alex’s arm, nearly making him topple over.

“Nick,” Alex said quietly. “Please. I don’t want you to get sick again.”

Nick sighed and stood up. Without Alex’s warmth beside him, he suddenly noticed just how much his teeth were chattering. “I always ruin everything.”

“No, no,” Alex said, holding the blanket in a messy bundle against his chest. “Not at all. We’ll go home and have some cocoa and watch a movie. And you can have all the cuddles you want.”

Nick nodded as he leaned into his crutches and began to make his way down the hill, too embarrassed to look at Alex. Even though he knew Alex would make good on his promise to continue the night at home, he still couldn’t help feeling like he had failed.

--

“Nick, we’re home,” Alex said softly as he stroked Nick’s hair, standing outside of the car, waiting for him to wake up.

Nick opened his eyes and blinked a few times, and then looked over to Alex. “Did I fall asleep?”

“Yeah. For basically the whole drive,” Alex laughed. “Ready to get out?”

After a warm bath, Nick got dressed again, slipping on clean pajamas and fuzzy socks and one of Alex’s hoodies. He settled himself on the couch as Alex busied himself in the kitchen, eventually returning with two mugs of cocoa, a package of biscuits, and a heating pad, which he tossed into Nick’s lap. “Sorry it’s not too fancy,” he laughed as he set the food and drinks down on the table.

“It doesn’t need to be,” Nick replied, warming his hands beneath the pad. He looked over at Alex as he sat down beside him, his cheeks rosy from the cold and his green eyes sparkling. “Alex?”

“Yeah?”

“Thank you for everything tonight,” Nick said softly. “I”m sorry I was a jerk before.”

“It’s okay,” Alex replied as he pulled Nick into his arms, kissing his temple. “I know you didn’t want to leave. But we can go back when it’s nicer out, yeah? And maybe we can bring Steck next time, too.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Nick lifted himself up and settled in Alex’s lap, their noses touching. “I love you.”

“Love you too,” Alex smiled, pressing his lips to Nick’s.