#also i took down that mural we had on the wall so this is such a blast from the past to me

[putonmyfavoriteshow]

Last night I found my live-reaction to the BIA pilot that I rewatched before watching the series finale. Here's a 3-min highlight reel of that mess for your entertainment 😂

[cucumbermoon]

Two of my long-term obsessions have just collided in an odd way.

I was watching "Wooster With a Wife" for the first time in about a decade and when I got to this scene, I gasped.

Because that little painting behind Jeeves looks like nothing much, but it used to be famous. It's called "Between Two Fires," and it was painted by the American master, Francis Davis Millet, in 1892.

It depicts a 17th-Century man sitting between two standing women, beneath a sprig of mistletoe. The piece itself was extremely popular in its time. It was often hung in houses, it was printed onto cigarette cases and biscuit tins. That's probably how it came to be hanging there on the wall of a pub. Somebody hung it there in 1900 and never took it down.

The thing that is particularly interesting to me, personally, about this painting is the artist who painted it. Frank Millet, born in Massachusetts in 1843, was once one of the most famous American artists in the world. He did murals in great cities across Europe and America, painted a portrait of his friend Mark Twain, was a personal friend of President William Howard Taft and John Singer Sargent. He was married and had children, but he was also known for having rather public relationships with other men, most notably the writer Charles Warren Stoddard. Their love letters are still in existence and some have been published in a biography of Stoddard.

Francis Davis Millet:

These days, the most famous thing about him is that he died on the Titanic, and as such he is the only confirmed queer victim of the Titanic sinking (obviously there must have been many others, but he's the only one with existing documentation that proves it). He happened to be traveling with a close friend whom he lived with, one Major Archibald Butt, who is often theorized to have been his partner at the time. We don't know much about their lives together, but we do know (from a letter Butt once wrote to his sister-in-law) that Millet wall-papered the inside of their house while Butt was away on a business trip. The wallpaper he chose was roses – so many roses, Butt said that he felt he was suffocating beneath a giant pile of them. It's rare to get any insight at all into the lives of men who may have been partners at that time, and I always rather loved this particular little story.

Major Archibald Butt:

Both men died in the sinking and they share a joint memorial fountain in Washington, DC. It's just behind the White House and was erected by their friends, who remembered them as being devoted to each other. Here's a little bit of information about the fountain from the National Park Service:

[jazjelspen]

leaving on wild charted waters [pt.4]

(what if our mc got tired of Night Raven College and all it's inhabitants?)

(what if our beloved mc has...(voluntarily) been helping with decorating for the ball that will be happening in the next few days!?)

(just a “filler” chapter but it's just pure fluff and our mc having a great time with their new RSA friends + fleshing out some RSA students that I may use in future chapters/will get back to angst but as many of you know: our mc needs to be happy!

p.s Neige is actually a nice person in this series, he just doesn’t mean to come off as fake. I just wanted to write a nice version of the character for this!)

(fluff/splash of angst but it's very short)

the ball: part 1

you couldn't be more relaxed. you are currently chilling with your new friends and Rielle on the same shore you stepped your shoes in on your first day here. you all decided that after a long day of studies, activities, and fun ballroom decorating that it'd be a great idea to just relax beside the waters with everyone having each of their favorite snacks and drinks.

you and your friends were quiet since all you could all do was take in the refreshing sea air and the feeling of the breeze kissing your faces, the sound of the water sloshing and splashing also added to the calm ambience of the scene, and of course it wouldn't be complete without the screech of a seagull or the cute chirps of birds. I just can't forget to mention the same beautiful sunset that came upon your first day here also appearing in this exact moment, it really did always take your breath away. 'god, nothing could beat this view' you thought.

you noted how this time when you volunteered to help out with ballroom decorating, that no one actually ever left you on your own or ditched you. everyone did their part, some mishaps here and there, but it wasn't anything none of you could fix. you actually felt as if the work was much less with everyone actively doing their job and not slacking off or disappearing when they have the chance... these guys actually sticked by you and didn't let you down in the slightest. it was as if a splash of the freshest water just hit your face and took off a lot of stains that you had from NRC.

you all reveled in the moment until someone finally spoke up, "today was no joke." your friend, Alex Underlan, spoke in an exasperating tone as he laid with his arms and legs spread as if he's about to make a snow angel in the sand. "it felt as if this day would never end."

the next to speak was Neige Leblanc "we did take awhile to set up the decorations for the ball. thankfully we managed to finish just in time before the setting sun left!" he spoke with a smile as he looked up to see his little blue bird friends sitting comfortably on his hat. "we have to admit we did do a pretty good job on the decorating."

Chenya, an acquaintance from NRC and now very good friends with in RSA, stretched his limbs out in the sand with a loud yawn "beats me, I'm just glad that the hard part is over and we can now nap like kittens!~..."

"I agree with Neige though, we did do a pretty great job with decorating! along with the help of our fellow animal friends too it made the whole thing a bit more hectic yet fun." Rielle chirped in "I do have to admit-- Raps and _____ did an amazing job painting the ceiling and walls for the occasion! it's like those really detailed murals from waaay back then!"

Raps then replied with a bit of a sheepish smile "aww thanks Red, but obviously I wouldn't have been able to get it done in time with my favorite assistant _____ here!--" Raps shook your shoulder gently with the entire group chuckling with each other.

"hey! I'm your only assistant!" you replied with a light giggle "Raps I seriously have no idea how you're not afraid of falling from such a height-- you have immense trust in your hair." you paused " but then again i was hanging onto your hair while painting-- so I actually can tell why you have immense trust in your hair." you all just fell into a fit of laughter together in harmony at the hilarious memory of you freaking out a bit while clinging onto your friend's hair over how high you were to then feeling confident and relaxed while painting the ballroom walls and ceiling with Raps.

after you all calmed down the excitement for the ball started rising in your chest once again "honestly... i'm so excited for the ball. mostly because it's the one ball where I most likely won't have to deal with any people that have underlying personal issues that I have to deal with." you let out an almost happy sigh.

Chenya snickered, knowing well what that referenced to "nahh, no overblots here. don't remember there ever being one since I first came to this rabbit hole." he then closed his eyes as to take a light cat nap.

"me either!" chirped in Neige "but no need to fret or fear, in case an issue does come up we won't ask you to have to take care of it for us. with what you've told us you have seemed to have gone through so much already--" he spoke this next part more lowly " I should've... noticed it back when the VDC event was happening..." Neige sulked a bit but then gave you a small smile "I'm just glad you still came all this way to give RSA a chance _____!.."

"thanks Neige, that's actually... very kind of you to say." you smiled back as one of Neige's little blue birds landed on one of your knees and chirped a small song for you.. how cute and charming. "actually back then at the VDC event I honestly thought you were probably hiding under some super cute and friendly facade but turns out that it's really just you being naturally kind and well... friendly!" almost everyone either choked on their drinks or giggled, basically all collectively agreeing that everyone else thought that too in the beginning of meeting Neige at some point.

Neige paused a bit and looked at you with wide eyes and a genuinely confused smile, processing what you just said as he let out a very confused "huh?--"

"Raps Belleflowe!"

a loud interrupting and snarly voice boomed from behind the group of six, so loud it caused the little birds that rested on you and Neige to fly away! you all simultaneously turned to look at the tall and dark figure with voluminous black curls awaiting for one of you.

Raps sighed in immense disappointment as he packed up any snacks he had out back in his satchel, now looking all gloomy. "well- I'll see you guys tomorrow!.."

Chenya then turned to look his long haired friend with an almost disappointed look too "leaving so soon blondie? not staying over to grab some full grub with us?"

Raps shook his head "ahh...not today guys! maybe next time--" he was about to walk out before he quickly faced the group who all groaned in disappointment together " hey how about to make up for it I treat you all to lunch at school!" everyone still seemed disappointed yet each still gave Raps a thumbs up at his idea.

you all watched him scurry to his father who seemed to be less than pleased, almost scolding him before they both walked seemingly back to the dorms.

"I don't like Raps's dad... always gave me the heebie jeebies, keeps Raps from us outside of school-related stuff, and always gives me low scores on my biochem tests!..." Alex grumbled as he looked up at the sky.

"he is an intimidating individual.. but he seems to be very attentive to Raps and always seems to help him with all the countless hobbies he has!.." Neige tried to seem a bit positive, but he does agree with Alex on the first two things.

"a bit too attentive, I know a helicopter dad when I see one." Rielle huffed before he yawned. "well let's get a meal before we all head our separate ways and sleep like sleeping beauty."

Chenya and Alex both seemed to agree very much with this idea with how quickly they both to stood up in a weirdly comedic way.

you chuckled at this "guess we don't have to tell you two twice."

Alex laughed at your comment "you really don't!"

while the other three got up Neige gently tapped on your shoulder before you got up as well. "hey _____! if you don't mind-- could we take a photo together for my Magicam? I've posted photos with everyone except you, and I wouldn't want to leave you out!" he gave you these puppy dog eyes as he asked, you couldn't help but chuckle at this and nod.

"of course Neige, I'd love to be in your Magicam." you spoke before a bright smile grew on his face and you both set up a pose together in front of his phone's camera.

"1...2..!" and right when he was about to say three he clicked on the camera button and now he has a memory of you two! he looked over the photo "look at us! we look great!"

you nodded in agreement, genuienly impressed with how good you two looked "huh!.. we really do don't we!"

you both giggled together before a loud and sharp 'ahem!' interrupted you both. both pairs of eyes looked up to see all three of your standing friends waiting for you.

Chenya groaned "let's get going slow pokes! Im starting to mistake Alex's stomach growls to that of a lion's roar." the cat tittered before Alex gasped and punched him on the arm, not hard enough to actually hurt him.

"no they do not! fleabag.." Alex sneered.

"awwe! that hurt, blondie #2..." whined the cat.

the rest of you three lightly laughed at the scene before you as Neige and yourself got up together. once the two wrapped up their play fight you all as a group started walking to the nearest shop for a quick meal.

guess you didn't realize that with Neige posting the picture of you two later on in the day that it'd rise hell onto the campus of Night Raven College-- unbeknownst to all of you.

(really short compared to other parts but next chapter will be when the actual ball will happen and all the silly funzies stuff too. as mentioned once again this chapter and the next are basically just fluff and "filler" and to flesh out most of mc's new friends +adding sprinkles and splashes of angst here and there to at least keep it interesting!)

[satureja13]

Ji Ho asked Jack to help him to get rid of that single bed Vlad was sleeping in - and Jack was all in. Anything that brought his best friend closer to Ji Ho was a good thing! But of course they didn't throw the bed in the trash compactor. It's not their ship - and destroying perfectly fine stuff is bad karma. Since they only use three of the four available quarters, they thought they'd just move the bed into the unoccupied one.

But this is the quarter of B.D's kids...

Ji Ho and Jack looked at each other. They are more determined than ever to bring him back to his family. This is so sad. (For me too. I haven't visited Great A'Tuin II since B.D got arrested. And seeing all the remnants of their happy times here is breaking my heart. One of his kids had even been born here on this ship...)

Jack and Jeb are busy checking - and if necessary, securing - the venitlation holes, so Jack had to get back to work. And since Ji Ho has no special task on this ship, he's the Ji Ho of all trades ^^' Today he's supposed to make an inventory of the smaller storage. To see for how long their Dilithium and supplies would last them. He was still so sad when he got there, and deep in thoughts. Ji Ho is the most sensible of them all, he can't just shake this off.

But then his attention was drawn to something... Oh no - someone (thing?) has stolen food from the containers! Metal containers at that! It seems Jack was right! There must be an alien creature on the ship! One that is able to crack (or bite ö.Ö') open sturdy metal containers!

None of the Little Ones is capable of doing this. Not even Evil Malfoy! Ji Ho was just about to flee from the scary storage, when he noticed the metal cages. Maybe the creature had escaped from them? o.o

Only one place he feels safe and secure came to his panicking mind, and that was Vlad. So he ran to their quarters. Then he heard a rustle from the ventilation shafts and he ran even faster! Oh gods!

Vlad sensed through the Bond that something was wrong with Ji Ho. He darted to the door to get to him, but Ji Ho was faster. Ji Ho was panting, his heart beating fast: "Thank the Gods, you're here." Then he told Vlad what happened.

Vlad pulled Ji Ho in his arms: "You're safe." Vlad would make sure to secure the ship together with Jeb and Jack. But later. First, he has to make sure that Ji Ho calms down. His fear and panic is shaking their Bond and Vlad can't think clear with Ji Ho being so frightened.

What Ji Ho also didn't notice in his shock state was, that Vlad moved their lily plant to their quarters.

TMI: The Lily represents beauty, purity, transformation, rebirth, and devotion.

Since awkwardness is still the main factor in their relationship, and Vlad has no idea how to calm Ji Ho (he knows very well that he makes Ji Ho only even more nervous), he went with Jack's tactic: distraction. Vlad: "I've noticed you removed my bed." Ok, that was working. Just in the wrong direction... Ji Ho's thoughts immediately went from 'omg the alien will kill and eat us all!' to 'omg Vlad will scold me because I removed his bed without his permission!'.

Vlad noticed Ji Ho's hands were still shaking and took them in his. Vlad: "Come." Ji Ho was utterly confused - is Vlad leading him away from the entrance and deeper into their quarters so the others won't hear when he yells at him? But he still followed him...

Ji Ho was so out of his head, he didn't even notice that Vlad had redecorated their quarters while he was away. He'd set up their hobby stuff - Ji Ho's music station and his easel. He'd even painted a cute mural on the wall for Ji Ho.

Vlad: "And? What do you think?" Only then Ji Ho took it all in: "Oh! That's wonderful!" Now Vlad's hands were shaking a bit, he's nervous: "So. Uhm ... we could spend time here together. If you like?" Ji Ho thought maybe Vlad didn't think it through. Vlad also has his computer here, to write on his stories: "Won't it disturb you when I do my music stuff next to you while you paint and write?" But Vlad did: "No. You use headphones, right? That's no problem." Vlad is too shy to tell Ji Ho that he is his greatest inspiration and muse.

And after the ventilation holes were secured, they spent their free time together. Without having to have awkward conversations and stupid misunderstandings. Boosting each other's creativity to new hights.

'We know how to fly Far away We’ll fly about the whole world We got used to the clouds Woo no Yeah Everywhere is already Our home'

My Zone - Block B A song from real Ji Ho's group :3

From the Beginning 🔱 Underwater Love 🔱 Latest

Current Chapter: starts ▶️ here Last Chapter: 'Here comes the Sun' from the beginning ▶️ here

📚 Previous Chapters: Chapters: 1-6 ~ 7-12 ~ 13-16 ~ 23-29

[klausinamarink]

Happy Accidents Allowed

Prompt: “Starry Night” (discord drabble from STWG and a happy birthday to @thefreakandthehair 🥳💜)

-

“That’s a perfect wall right there.” Eddie emphasizes his point by smacking a hand against the still-white, (thankfully) now dried paint. “Don’t ya agree, big boy?”

Steve puts his hands on his hips, letting himself survey every inch of the wall of their living room. It’s actually a small area, right next to the sliding door of the balcony, barely wide enough to fit his own frame even with his arms outstretched. It’s also the only wall in their new apartment left unpainted because Eddie had wanted it blank for a mural he wanted to do. Hence the many paint bottles and palettes around their feet.

Finally, Steve smacked his lips and said, “Better than a horse, I’ll say.” 

It came out less clever than it did in his brain, but Eddie laughed hysterically anyways. 

“Alright, I’m gonna start so do not distract me!” Eddie pointed at him with one of the paintbrushes. 

“Even if it’s for meals?” Steve asked, the corners of his lips quirking upwards.

Eddie paused. “Unless it’s for meals.”

“Even if you need a shower?”

“Unless I have to shower.”

“Even if-”

Steve cackled as he leapt away from Eddie’s attempt to smack his leg. “Even if I have to sleep, yes!” 

He left Eddie alone then. Steve spent a while in their bedroom to finish unpacking the last couple boxes, before he peeked back in the living room. 

Some of the wall was painted in a thick dark blue. Eddie was still hunched over on his spot, but Steve could see that his boyfriend already had some other colours done. They were too dark and blob-y looking for Steve to figure out what they were. But it wouldn’t hurt to ask, right?

“So what exactly are you painting?” Steve tiptoed over, careful not to disturb Eddie.

Eddie hummed, not looking up from where he’s still painting. “Been wanting to try my version of Starry Night.”

“Starry Night?”

“Yeah, you know. That one Van Gogh painting.” 

“Oh, I know that.”

They both fell into a comfortable silence. Steve kept watching Eddie until he finally looked up. “You wanna try?”

Steve blinked, “Huh?”

Eddie grinned, already handing him a paintbrush. “You can try painting too. It would be sort of cool if we did this together, actually. Like, I paint on this side, you paint on that side, we meet in the middle. Might be sweet.”

”Or hideous.” Steve muttered, taking the offered brush. Eddie laughed before turning back to his progress.

Steve stared at the remaining white space. He looked down at his brush. It’s one of the small ones that could do thinner strokes for the details. Probably a good choice Eddie gave him because Steve knew absolutely nothing about painting. Even in art classes as he had followed his teacher’s instructions, his projects always looked like a first grader’s attempt. Hell, he was pretty sure first grade was the last time he genuinely wanted to do painting on his own.

He took a deep breath. He can do this. He knows what Starry Night looks like, so all he has to do is paint what he remembers, right?

Steve sits down, dipping the brush in one of the blue paints. A lighter color. Because Starry Night had lots of cool brushstrokes and it makes sense to start from light to dark. Right?

Steve carefully taps the brush experimentally on the wall. As expected, the light blue paint appears as a new dot on the white wall, inches away from Eddie’s. But an inexplicable wave of dread comes over Steve. The longer he stares at the spot, the more it overwhelms him. 

Because he doesn’t know what to do next. 

Does he have to apply the same paint? Does he just have to bring the brush back and move it up and down? Did he have to add a new one? If he tried a different brush- no, it would just be the same, just more larger. Should he ask Eddie? No, it’ll just distract him anyways. Maybe if Steve left now- no, he would be a fucking asshole-

“I ruined it.” Steve said, blankly staring at the pathetic dot. 

“What?” Eddie blinked at him. His eyes darted to the horrible blue spot and he made a small laugh. “Sweetheart, you just started-”

“I ruined it.” Steve repeated. Pressure started burning right behind his eyes. He immediately pinched the bridge of his nose, careful with the paintbrush he’s still holding. Fucking pathetic. “This was a mistake.”

“Wait, wait, Steve.” Eddie’s hands were on his wrists, gently bringing them down to their laps. Steve looked away, biting hard into his bottom lip. If he had to look at his boyfriend, Steve was certain he would just start sobbing and never stop.

“Steve.” Eddie said softly. His hand carefully cupped Steve’s face. Lingering, not turning his head to face Eddie. “Tell me what’s wrong?”

“Like I said,” Steve clenched his jaw as he spoke, trying to stop the waterworks from going out, “I ruined it.”

There was a tiny rustle of clothes as Eddie moved forwards. His arms wrapped around Steve, easily pulling their bodies together. Steve couldn’t hold it anymore. He buried his face in his boyfriend’s shoulder, inhaling the smell of paint already ingrained in the fabric of his flannel. It soaked up his tears easily. 

After Steve felt like he could breathe without feeling choked up, Eddie spoke again, “It’s your first time painting, right?”

Steve nodded. He turned his head so he could press his face against Eddie’s neck. 

“I’m not expecting you to be a master painter.” Eddie paused, “Though it would be pretty cool if my boyfriend was secretly Van Gogh.” He cackled aloud when Steve good-heartedly pinched his arm in response. When he quieted down, Eddie leaned back so he was staring into Steve’s eyes. His thumb rubbed underneath them to wipe away any stray tears.

He continued, “It’s okay to fail, Steve. It’s okay to make mistakes, especially when you’re just starting something new. Believe me, I get the struggle. Sometimes, I come up with super cool ideas but I just tear my hair out when I can’t draw it exactly how I pictured it.”

“Really?” Steve asked quietly, even though he already witnessed plenty of those moments Eddie had just described, which was mostly amusing. But nothing about this situation feels funny to Steve. Surely, Eddie’s internally laughing at him right now.

But Eddie was only smiling at him, all so fondly, “Really. And there’s a lesson about it. If you think you ruined something, call it a happy accident.”

“Happy accidents?” Steve repeated it under his breath. Eddie’s smile grew wider as he playfully tapped his nose.

“Yep, no calling it a mistake or saying you ruined art. It’s just happy accidents.”

When they both leaned in to kiss, Steve thought about the circumstances that had brought them both here in this apartment, despite the horrors that had caused it. Thought about how if he hadn’t ran back to the Byers house that night, Steve’s life would’ve been more blissful but none the wiser. He wouldn’t have met the kids and known Eddie more this intimately.

Yeah, it sure was a happy accident. And that, Steve wouldn’t regret those spots of paint on his own mural of his life.

[justagalwhowrites]

Lavender - Ch. 25

You bond with a student and try to take matters into your own hands at the clinic. A continuation of Lavender Ch. 1-24 found on Tumblr here.

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female Reader

Warnings: Smut! (Unprotected P in V sex - don't be dumb), canon typical violence. No use of Y/N. Minors DNI, 18+.

Length: 5.6k

Tuesday, September 14, 2021 - Five and a Half Years Later

“So fucking cool.” 

The small girl standing in the corner of your classroom hadn’t noticed you yet. 

You’d gone down to refill your water bottle at the start of your lunch period, leaving an empty classroom and coming back to find a girl you didn’t know running her fingers over the worn spines of the books on the bookshelf you’d made out of scrap wood and cinderblocks. You just watched her silently for a moment, leaning against the doorframe, as she worked her way to the mural of the solar system you had on one wall. You’d been meaning to touch it up but it kept falling to the bottom of the list of things to get done. 

The girl didn’t seem to mind, craning her neck as she took it in. 

“Strong language,” you said, finally speaking up. She jumped and spun, her eyes wide. 

“Shit,” she said. You smiled. 

“I don’t bite,” you said, pushing off the doorframe and going for your desk. “Though I’d appreciate if you cut down on the swearing in my classroom.” 

“Sorry,” she said. She looked around the room a bit more, her fingers tapping on desks as she did. 

“You’re not one of my students,” you said, sitting down and taking a sip of water before grabbing some jerky out of your bag. 

“How do you know?” She frowned. 

“Well, I know my students, for starters,” you smiled a little. “But also, I’m guessing you’re a year or two young for my classes yet. How old are you?” 

“I’m 12,” she said. “I think, anyway. Not really sure about my birth date.” 

You nodded slowly. 

“So you’re not one of my students,” you said, watching her. “And you’re too young to be in my classes. But you’re in my classroom. So, tiny human, what brings you by?” 

She smiled a little at the title. 

“I had some science questions and my friend told me that I should come talk to you because you were cool,” she said. “And that you’d probably help me find the shi…stuff I was looking for.” 

“Dang,” you shook your head. 

She frowned. 

“What?” 

“Your friend said I was cool?” You asked. She nodded. “Well now I’m going to just have to do whatever you want, my primary goal has always been to make teenagers think I’m cool. Who’s your friend?” 

“Riley?” She asked it more than said it. 

“Dang,” you said again. “Riley’s a good kid, that makes it worse. Alright, what do you want to know about?” 

“She said everyone calls you Doc,” she said. “So are you like a doctor doctor or someone who just got a bunch of degrees and shi…stuff before the world ended?” 

“Doctor doctor,” you said. “So if you have questions about biology, I’m your gal. Other stuff I might need to do some research on.” 

“Oh,” her face fell a little bit. 

“I can do some research though,” you shrugged. “I like research.” 

“Yeah?” 

“Yup,” you nodded. “Pretty much the whole reason I became a scientist to begin with, research is fun. So tell me what you want to know about and I’ll see what I can find for you.” 

“I really want to know about space,” she said, sitting at the desk closest to yours in the front row. “It’s just so fuck…freaking cool and huge and we only just started sending people up there before the world ended and we never really got to do anything with it…” 

“Space is very cool,” you said, getting up from your desk and going to the bookshelves. “I lived in Texas for a while. I went to the space center in Houston with a friend and his daughter once. Definitely something to see…. How comfortable are you reading? Do you like reading? Good at it?” 

“Reading’s cool,” she shrugged. “I like comics best but I read other stuff, too.” 

“If I’m grabbing anything that’s too hard, just let me know,” you said. “Any specific questions you have about space?” 

“Mostly what people actually did up there,” she said. “People left the freakin’ planet, do you know how cool that is?” 

You smiled a little. That was pretty cool. 

“OK,” you said, making a small pile of magazines and one book. “These are the magazines I have that talk about space a lot. Give those a read, tell me what you think is most interesting and I’ll find you more about that. Go ahead and make a list about any questions you have, too. Either words or concepts you don’t know or anything you want more information about, I’ll see what I can answer for you and then I’ll find you answers for the rest. And then, for fun, there’s A Wrinkle in Time, a book about traveling through space time. I think you’ll like Meg, she’s the best.” 

You grabbed a clipboard with a piece of paper and a pen on it, handing it to her. 

“I’m afraid I’m going to need your name to loan these out to you, though,” you said. “Put your name, the date, and just write space stuff on the ‘what I’m borrowing’ line, I’ll know what you mean.” 

She took the clipboard and filled it out. You took it back, looking at her blocky writing. 

“OK Ellie,” you handed her the pile. “Think you can come back by a week from today and bring back what you’ve finished? Doesn’t have to be everything, I just like keeping an eye on my library.” 

“I can do that,” she nodded. She glanced quickly at a corner of your classroom where you’d set up some beanbags before looking back to you. “Thanks for…” 

“Want to sit and read in the beanbags unit your next class?” You asked. Her face lit up. You smiled a little. “Go make yourself at home. You can come by here at lunch and read anytime you want, my door is open.” 

“Cool,” she smiled, taking a magazine to the corner and flopping down on the bean bag. You pressed play on the tape deck at your desk, a mix tape that someone had probably made for a girlfriend decades ago but it had a good mix of music to it. You turned the volume down low and read while eating, glancing up at the small girl curled up on the beanbags now and then. 

Ellie read, a serious look on her small face, until the bell rang. She looked surprised that time had passed so quickly but she gathered her things and stopped at your desk. 

“It’s really OK if I just come here at lunch?” She asked. “Riley has a different lunch period than me this year so I don’t really have anyone to sit with…” 

“Of course,” you smiled. “Come by anytime. And don’t forget to take those notes so we can do some research, OK?” 

“Yeah,” she nodded. “Thanks, Doc.” 

You hoped Ellie would keep coming back. She was clearly a bright and curious kid, this school was almost certainly failing her at every opportunity. 

The school had never been great. It was part of the reason why you stayed, you felt someone needed to be invested in the students and their education and if no one else was going to do it you were. But it had been steadily declining the last few years, just like the rest of the QZ. 

A lot of infrastructure that had just been hanging on since the outbreak started to fold around the 15 year mark, more now that you were closing in on 20. It had been two years since you’d last had hot water, the hot water heater in your apartment going out after being repaired half a dozen times in the years prior. It finally gave up the ghost and so, too, had hot showers. Buildings badly needed repair and maintenance and the Fireflies had continued to make things worse by blowing up the stuff that didn’t. 

It seemed like the school you taught at now was just doing what it could to bring students up to be soldiers, not give them a proper education. When you’d started here, FEDRA needed people who could do a multitude of things, so a comprehensive education was necessary. The last few years, they just wanted muscle. Muscle didn’t need to know about the nervous system or the water cycle or the history of the United States. You were half waiting for FEDRA to drop all the pretext and stop educating students entirely. But, in the mean time, you tried to make your classroom a safe space for them, give them access to as much information as you possibly could. 

Your value to the QZ as a doctor gave you some leeway here, too. You were pretty sure they wouldn’t tolerate your methods and would just do away with you if you weren’t one of the few medical resources the QZ had. 

Of course, that value was seeming more and more limited now, too. FEDRA kept cutting back on resources. Most of the drugs that came in were opioids now, hardly anything for actual treatment, just managing symptoms. Tess was checking pharmacies for you on every run now and you were going out more and more frequently to find what you needed - Joel a silent wall who pretended you didn’t exist and you mostly happy to do the same. Even though you caught yourself looking at him more often than you cared to admit. 

Derek was less than thrilled with the situation. He still didn’t know much about Joel - your history became even easier to hide once you started actively avoiding him again - but he didn’t like your leaving the QZ so much. 

“There has to be another option,” he said one night as you were getting ready for bed, your bag packed and ready to leave in the morning. “It’s dangerous out there…” 

“Trust me, I’m not exactly itching to go out there,” you said, rubbing the lotion you’d left at Derek’s house into your hands before climbing into bed. “It’s hardly a picnic. But FEDRA hasn’t really given me another choice.” 

“Do you think other QZs have people out risking their lives to see what drugs they can scavenge?” He asked without giving you a chance to answer as he got into bed beside you. “Because I can just about promise you, they don’t. It’s not reasonable for you to be going out there all the time, you can’t help anybody if you get yourself killed…” 

“Then I’ll just try really hard not to die,” you kissed him. “It doesn’t matter if no one else is out there doing what I’m doing. I just can’t live with myself if I’m not doing everything I can. Soon things will be gone or so far out of date that they’re useless regardless of dosage so this is kind of a finite thing, anyway. But for now we have these resources so I intend to use them.” 

“I still don’t like it…” 

“Can we not fight the night before I leave?” You asked, pressing yourself against him. “I can think of way better ways to spend our time…” 

You kissed him and, at first, he reluctantly kissed you back. But it didn’t take long before his hand went to your ass, fingers sinking into your flesh, pulling your hips tight to his. He rolled you onto your back, nestling himself between your legs as your arms went around his neck, grinding his hips down against yours. You groaned into his mouth as his hands slid down your body to your underwear, hooking his fingers in them and tugging them down, tossing them aside before sinking two fingers into you. 

“See?” You said, grinding against his hand. “Way better than fighting.” 

He just bit your lower lip in response, making you laugh. You shoved his pants down before nudging him into sitting up. You moved with him, straddling him, reaching between your bodies to grip his cock while his thumb rubbed your clit. He quickly added two fingers to your pussy, pressing into you firmly as he kissed down to your breasts, taking a nipple in his mouth. You rose up on your knees just enough to notch his head against your entrance and slowly took him inside you, his face buried in your neck as you did. 

You rode him slowly, rising and falling on him in long, firm strokes as his hands and mouth ranged over your body, his hips pressing up into yours so his cock would bottom out inside you. 

“Don’t want to lose you,” he groaned, his mouth against your throat. 

“You won’t,” you gasped back, your body tightening around his cock. His arms went around your waist, pulling you so tight to him that the only way either of you could move was him thrusting up into you, his face buried in your chest. The tip of him pressed into the place inside you that made your head spin and you came around him with a shuddering gasp, his orgasm not far behind. 

His grip on you loosened after he filled you, his head tipping back to look you in the eye. 

“Promise you’re coming home to me, Love,” he said. 

You kissed him gently. 

“Promise.” 

The trip had been relatively uneventful. You’d run into one group of raiders, but you’d heard them coming soon enough that you and Tess were able to stash yourselves safely away while Joel talked with them and they moved on, no blood spilt. You came home with only a few dozen usable bottles. You knew you had a year, maybe two left of being able to scavenge anything like this at all. You weren’t sure what anyone was going to do then. 

You were still thinking about Ellie that afternoon at the clinic. It had been so long since you had a student seek out knowledge quite that aggressively. You really really hoped she came back. You were going to tell Andrew about her but he just looked exhausted. 

“You practically have a kindergartener,” you teased. “There’s no way you can blame lack of sleep on the kid.” 

“I can blame it on the future kid,” he groaned. “Jess was tossing and turning all night, she’s at the severe discomfort stage.” 

“As a medical professional, I can tell you that all stages of pregnancy are the severe discomfort stage,” you smiled. He glared at you. “But yeah, she’s getting pretty far along.” 

“I think she’s ready to come here, hand you a scalpel and say ‘please cut this thing out of me,’” he said. “She’s so done, wants to have the baby here and skip the rest of the pregnancy and labor part.” 

“If only,” you said. “How is young Miss Elizabeth by the way? I haven’t seen her this week.” 

“Eating everything in sight,” he said. ���Think she’s having another growth spurt…” 

“Does she need cookies?” You asked. “Because I can make cookies.” 

You’d become enraptured with Andrew and Jess’ daughter, Elizabeth, from the second she was born. You could watch her do anything and everything, wanted to give her whatever her heart desired. 

Jess had asked for you and Andrew with her when she gave birth and watching that little girl draw her first breath had been one of the best moments of your life, even as it was tinged in the bittersweet thought that you’d never experience that with your own child. They’d named her Elizabeth, after Jess’ mom, but had given her the middle name Sarah in honor of the girl who you’d loved like a daughter. You sobbed the first time you held her, her soft perfection blurry behind your tears.

“I think we will pass on the sugar high, thank you Auntie Doc,” he smiled. 

“Hey Doc,” Kristen hung her torso into the waiting room. “Need you on a consult.” 

“Cookie offer still stands,” you said as you headed back. “If she wants cookies, I’ll make cookies.” 

You could practically hear him roll his eyes. You looked to Kristen. 

“Whatcha got?” You asked. 

“Well, it’s basic,” she said, keeping her voice low. “But there’s a pattern…” 

She opened up the chart. It was for a woman you’d treated before, Penny. Small things over the past few years, a few broken bones, lacerations that needed stitches… You frowned at the locations, the frequency. 

“I see what you mean,” you said. “What’s her living situation?” 

“Just her and her husband,” she said. “But he’s a guard…” 

“Shit,” you sighed. 

“Doc,” she looked at you. “It’s bad this time. I’ve tried to do safety checks before but…” 

“I got it,” you sighed, heading to the door. You knocked once and let yourself in. 

“Hi Penny,” you smiled, forcing yourself to hold it. She’d gotten the shit beat out of her. One eye was swollen shut, there were bruises around her throat. Kristen had already set a broken wrist. “How are you doing today?” 

“Oh, I’ve been better,” she tried to smile but her cut cheek kept it for being too wide. You did a few quick checks, seeing if she had signs of a concussion or internal bleeding before pulling up a stool next to the exam table. 

“So,” you said, looking at her. “Want to tell me what happened?” 

“It’s not that bad,” she said quickly, but her eyes were welling up with tears. “Really, I just…” She started sobbing. “I don’t know what to do, he’s a guard so no one will arrest him, I can’t just leave town…” 

“Hey,” you said, putting a hand gently on her knee. “I understand, OK? We’re going to figure the out. To start, we’re going to keep you overnight at least for observation. Maybe a few nights. Maybe a week. I’ll try to see what we can get worked out in the meantime, but for now, you’re going to be safe and in here, OK?” 

“Yeah,” she nodded. “OK.” 

You gave Kristen a few instructions and went back out to the front. No one was in the waiting room, but you lowered your voice, anyway. 

“Andrew,” you said, standing close to him. “I need you to find Penny’s emergency contact sheet, find out who her husband is.” 

“Yeah, sure,” he said with a frown, going over toward filing. You hovered by the front desk, trying to think of a solution. 

The QZ was small, too small for her to stay hidden for long. You could maybe see if she could travel as a passenger on a convoy headed to Atlanta under a different name. Elias might be able to make that happen. Then it would just be a matter of hoping that no one traveling with her knew her or her husband, especially not the guards. And that you could get her out of the city before he fucking killed her. You sighed. It seemed like things that were problems before the outbreak were just bigger problems now. Like the world had decided to go to shit in the most extreme way it could possibly find. 

You still hadn’t come up with a solution the next day beyond keeping Penny in the clinic for a bit to at least keep her out of harm’s way for now. She was getting anxious, though, certain that her husband was going to track her down and cause problems. 

She was right. That evening, you were in with a patient when you heard some screaming from the entry, a man’s unfamiliar voice and Andrew’s forceful baritone back. 

“Excuse me,” you smiled to the woman you were treating before peeling off your gloves and leaving the exam room. There was a heat in you, building, spreading through your body. White hot, vengeful, righteous. You’d fought for years to make this place safe and someone was threatening it. 

You ducked into a surgical suite on the way and grabbed a scalpel from an area that hadn’t been sterilized yet, holding the handle in your fist like a talisman. You went into the waiting area to find a man in a guard’s uniform - hulking, at least six feet tall - screaming at Andrew, who was standing behind the desk. 

“I will burn this fucking place to the ground if you don’t bring me my goddamn wife!” He yelled. 

“Hey!” You yelled, stalking up to him. He turned his attention to you quickly. “Get the fuck out of my clinic before I make you get the fuck out of my clinic!” 

“The fuck you going to do about it?” He started toward you and you whipped the scalpel forward, slicing the palm of his hand. He hissed, yanking it back in surprise and you took the opportunity to put the blade to his throat.

“That,” you snapped. “Get the fuck out.” 

He scowled at you. 

“This isn’t over.” 

“It is for now,” you said. “Leave.” 

He held your gaze for a second, spittle on his lips, before he stepped back. 

“Fucking kill you too, you little bitch,” he stalked off. 

The second he was out of the door, you looked around. Everyone in the waiting room had cowered back into a corner. 

“Everyone OK?” You asked. No one said otherwise. Andrew just looked at you. 

“Alright,” he said, coming over and putting his arm around your shoulders. “Come on…” 

He steered you into the break room before carefully pulling the scalpel from your hand. 

“You good?” He asked, searching your face. You realized then that your hands were shaking. “Yeah, didn’t think so, where the hell did that come from?” 

“I don’t know,” you were hyperventilating. “I just heard him, I knew it was him, I knew what he was after and I just wasn’t going to let him hurt anyone here on my watch and the only thing I could think to do was that…” 

“Look, I love that you threatened to shank a FEDRA guard,” he said. “That’s the dream. But he’s going to come back and if the guards won’t do anything…” 

“I know,” you were shaking. He pulled you into his chest. 

“It’ll be OK,” he said, stroking your hair. “We’ll talk to Elias, there has to be something we can do…” 

You just nodded into his chest. But you had a different idea, one that you couldn’t afford to bring Andrew in on. 

You ducked out of work a few minutes early. Andrew had volunteered to stay the night to fend off any potential acts of aggression. It made you nervous but he could handle himself. There were weapons on site in case of an outbreak, so he was armed and ready at least. You, on the other hand, walked straight to Joel’s. 

He opened the door quickly when you knocked, frowning when he saw you standing there. 

“Tess ain’t here,” he said. 

“Not here for Tess,” you replied. “Here to talk to you. I’m calling in a favor, think you owe me a few at this point, Miller.” 

He sighed, opening the door and letting you in. 

***

You refused to properly sit down, instead just leaning back against his kitchen counter as he stood opposite you, a glass of whiskey in his hand. 

To say he was surprised to see you was an understatement. You tolerated him on trips outside the QZ but said as little to him as you possibly could. You’d made it very clear that you were done with him. It killed him every time. 

“What do you want?” He asked, as though he would drive some kind of hard bargain. As though he wouldn’t just give you whatever you asked for. 

“I need you to tell me how to kill a person,” you said, chin out, defiant. “In a ‘make them disappear’ way.” 

He looked you up and down. He knew you were in your 40s now but you didn’t look it. Even after all the years in the QZ there was still something soft about you, something safe and warm and kind. You weren’t a killer. 

“Why?” He asked. 

“I have a patient,” you replied. “Her husband damn near killed her. Came into the clinic today threatening to burn the place down if we didn’t give her to him. I had to put a scalpel to his throat to get him to leave…” 

“Tell the guard,” he shrugged, watching you closely. 

“He is a guard,” you replied, shaking your head. “They won’t take down one of their own. He threatened to kill me today as he was leaving… I’ve thought about it and the only way to do this is to kill him. But I’ve only ever shot infected or euthanized people, I’ve never… I don’t know how to do what you do. I need you to tell me so I can do it.” 

His jaw tensed as he strained to hold himself back. Someone had threatened to hurt you - a guard, no less - and you just wanted a guidebook on how to handle it yourself. 

“No,” he said firmly. 

“What do you mean no?” You snapped. “Like I said, I think you owe me a favor or two at this point, Miller, I’ve spent a decade and a half helping to keep you alive…” 

“Derek know you’re asking for this?” He asked, all but spitting the man’s name out. He had no reason to, he seemed like a decent enough guy. He just got to touch you and he hated him for it. 

Honestly, Joel owed Derek at least a thank you. He’d picked you up with Tess from Derek’s one morning to go on a run and Derek had invited them into his apartment while you grabbed something you’d left in his bedroom. There were photos spread out on the kitchen table. Joel caught a glimpse of one of you. You didn’t look like you even knew the photo was being taken. You were folded into a threadbare armchair, a book in your hands. Your hair was a little wild, a ribbon holding it back from your face. You legs were bare, he could just see a hint of tank top and cleavage over the top of the book. Your face was the real draw though, totally absorbed, as though there was nothing outside of you and the page in front of you in the world. He hadn’t seen you like that in years. When Derek turned his back, he pocketed the photo. 

“Why would Derek know?” You asked. “He’s not involved. No one knows I’m asking for this and I’m just trusting that you won’t turn me into FEDRA for it. Tell me how to make someone disappear.” 

“Can’t just tell you how to kill someone like that, Kid,” he said, crossing his arms. You opened your mouth to protest but he cut you off. “What’s his name.” 

“What?” You frowned. 

“His name.” He said. “Give me the name, where I can find him. I’ll take care of it.” 

Your eyebrows knitted together. 

“No,” you shook your head. “I’m not asking you to kill someone for me, I can handle my own shit…” 

“No, you can’t,” he said. “You really think you can just kill a guard? You, who hates killin’ and hurtin’ anything thinks you’re going to just waltz into some guard’s living room and put him out?” 

You glared at him. 

“You’re right,” he said. “I owe ya. I owe ya a lot. Give me the name.” 

“You know what, Joel,” you snapped. “If you don’t respect me, just say so, OK?” 

“Never said I don’t respect you,” he frowned, confused. Ever since you’d found out he’d sent Tommy away, you automatically jumped to the worst possible conclusion about anything he said or did. 

“You respect strength and skill and you clearly don’t think I have any,” you snapped. “I still know you, Joel…” 

“Apparently you don’t if you think I don’t respect ya,” he snapped, closing the distance between you quickly, caging you back against the cabinets. Your breath hitched. “I know you’re smart, I know you’re capable and I know you’re not a fuckin’ killer, let me keep you from turnin’ into one and give me the goddamn name!” 

His body was against yours for the first time in years. You still felt the same against him. He still wanted to touch and hold you in the same places, still wanted to knot his fingers in your hair and kiss you until your lips were swollen with it. You still smelled like lavender. You still would rip him open and destroy him if he let you. 

You slowly reached into your pocket and pulled out a small piece of paper with a name and address. Your eyes never left Joel’s. He took it, stepping back from you. 

“I’ll take care of ‘em,” he said, putting it in his pocket. 

“Joel,” you said softly. 

“You should go home,” he said. “Make sure you’re in before curfew.” 

You nodded once. 

“Thank you,” you said quietly as you turned to leave. 

Joel waited until he knew you were gone to fuck his hand while thinking about sinking into you. What would have happened if he’d kissed you. How he’d have held your face, touched your breasts, fingered you until you came around him. The sounds you made when he ate you until he was drowning in you. The way you felt when you came around his cock as he drove deep inside you, so wrapped up in you that he almost didn’t know where he ended and you began. He came harder than he had in months, the memory of the feel of your body against his so close but so far. 

Joel got an early start the next day, going and waiting near the address you’d given him. He watched a man come outside and shook his head. He was huge, he’d have taken you apart. It would have been almost funny, you thinking you could kill this man without the help of a gun, if he hadn’t threatened to kill you. 

He let the rage fill him then, soaking in the heat of it. Killing this man would be justice. Killing this man would be a good thing. Killing this man would protect you. 

He came along side him, glancing to his name tag before he took his knife and put his arm around the man’s shoulders, pressing the knife into his side. 

“What the…” 

“Shut the fuck up or I’ll kill you on the street,” Joel snapped. “Walk with me.” 

He steered him into an abandoned building, taking him toward the center of it. 

“You don’t know what the fuck you’re doing,” the man snapped. Joel shoved him into the room. 

“You beat your wife?” He asked. The man just blinked at him in shock. “Say you’re going to burn down the clinic? Threaten to kill a doctor?” 

“That fuckin’ cunt send you?” He snapped. Joel wasn’t sure if he was talking about you or his wife but he didn’t care. “Look, I don’t have any problem with you…” 

“I’ve got one with you,” Joel said. “You threatened her so I’ve got a big fuckin' problem with you.”

“That little doctor bitch?” He snapped. He was getting worried now. Joel liked it. “I’m sorry about that, OK? If that’s your problem, nothing needs to happen with her, I’ll leave her be, I just want my fuckin’ wife back…” 

“That’s not how it works,” Joel shook his head. “I don’t take risks with her, not with pieces of shit like you.” 

The man tried to charge him but he sidestepped him and thrust the knife into his gut, twisting and pressing it deep as the man gasped in shock. He felt the blood spill onto his hand and he pushed the man to the ground. He yanked his knife free as the man gasped and blinked up at him in shock. 

“Now,” Joel knelt beside him. “You’re lucky, You hadn’t hurt her yet, or this would be worse. Sounds like you deserve worse, anyway, but…” he shrugged. “Rather be quick with it.” 

He slit his throat and waited until he was sure he was dead before he cleaned his knife on the man’s clothes and grabbed the blood splattered velcro name tag from the man’s uniform. He pocketed it, gave himself a once over to ensure he’d missed the worst of the blood, and left him there. With the building’s state, it would likely be weeks before they found him, if at all. 

That afternoon, he went to the clinic. Andrew frowned at him. 

“She here?” He asked gruffly. 

“I’ll grab her,” he said, looking Joel up and down for a moment before disappearing into the back. He came out with you and you just froze in the doorway to the exam rooms.

Joel allowed himself a second to just look at you. He’d always liked how you dressed the days that you both taught and were at the clinic - a combination of bright and cheerful for your students and professional and serious for your patients. It seemed most like you. His mind lingered on the feeling of unbuttoning your shirt when you got home, feeling how you melted against him after your long day. 

He wordlessly walked over to you, pulled the name tag out of his pocket and pressed it into your palm. You looked down at it for a moment, running your fingers over the stitching before looking back up at him. 

“Thank you,” you said softly. 

He just nodded once and left before he gave into his urge to touch you. 

A/N: YES THAT'S RIGHT WE HAVE ELLIE! WE'RE GETTING SO CLOSE!

Next chapter will likely be the last all pre-canon QZ based chapter (maybe one more after but I doubt what I have planned to wrap up all the OC QZ stuff will take more than one chapter) and then we will be off on the quest to bring Ellie west :D

(Also note, though it wasn't by name, Ellie heard her first Joel story today, did you catch it?)

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Thank you, as always, for reading and interacting! Love you all :)

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[cardinalcanis]

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Summary: The aftermath of a recent conflict against the forces of the Tyranids weighed heavily on the Primarch, his newly appointed head of the Logisticarum attempts to raise his spirits.

Pairing: Roboute Guilliman x M!OC

TW: none, just be prepared for awkward fluff.

Word count: 2,934

Tag squad (let me know if you wish to be tagged on stuff): @jaghatai-khock @horuslupercal @moodymisty

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the quiet confines of the warship, a sense of heaviness clung to Roboute Guilliman. The aftermath of a recent conflict against the forces of the Tyranids weighed heavily on the Primarch, his usually resolute demeanor dulled by a palpable sense of loss and responsibility. Guilliman has been staring at the same report for at least thirty minutes, his azure eyes clouded with thoughts of countless losses, the burden of leadership pressing down upon him yet again. The creeping fear that he would not live up to the expectation that has been given to him, to save and guide the Imperium. He placed a hand to the lower part of his neck where the scar left by Fulgrim resided, so long yet still hurts, healed but still leaving him this sense of emptiness that consumed him. Unknowingly Ovidious Sulla was also paying close attention to him. 

“It wasn’t your fault my Lord.” The human said remaining polite and formal. He’s had the man working for him for several months so far, it always surprised him how he could pinpoint his well sealed emotions with such accuracy. “We are cunning but our enemy is also. We have all the data. They are evolving to fight us, but we are also. We’ll compile it to fuel the Imperium’s next victory.”

Guilliman stood up a bit violently, the chair behind him almost topping and falling to the side. There was pent up rage in his movements, the image of Sulla flinching at the act took him back into his body. Closing his eyes he tried to relax just like while meditating, pushing the feelings deep inside where they could be properly contained. He is a man of logic, not emotions. Emotional dysregulation was what drove his fallen brothers into Chaos, he couldn’t, no, he mustn't fall into their same mistakes.  

He paced towards a wall nested among the many rows of bookshelves, a mural depicting an astral chart of the five hundred worlds of Ultramar as they were in the 31st millennium, drafted from detailed description out of Guilliman’s superhuman memory. 

“Victory.” He said, his voice dragging a bit. “That is what the preachers cry from the spires of their temples, what commanders tell the soldiers in their service” the tone takes the mask his voice wears every time he has to address a large crowd for a speech “the Indomitus Crusade meets with triumph after triumph. Day by day, we tear Imperium Nihilus from the Despoiler's grip. And though we are beset on all sides, with each battle we drive back the mutant, the heretic, THE ALIEN.” his nose flares in frustration, rest of the body following a well memorized pantomime. “As I speak these words, our forces engage the remnants of Leviathan. Reclaiming lost worlds, atoning for old shames. A crusade to cleanse the stars.” paused with his voice turning slightly guttural, swallowing a cry. “Taking the fight to the enemy, we routed the Tyranids at Baal.” the pause became longer “We broke their hive fleet. Soon, their foulness will be but a memory.” Guilliman placed his armored hand on the mural, caressing a memory only he seems to still hold “THAT is what the preachers say.” his hands turned into fists as he spoke, knowing full well the human could read his disgust and frustration. “Belief will not save us, lies will not protect us, but it is our hope that will damn us.” he rested his forehead on the mural “In the spires and the slums, our people sing of victory.” once again he knocked his forehead slightly on the mural.” Victory, as the galaxy burns.” again “Victory, as the Imperium rots around us.” yet again “Victory, as humanity rages against the dying of the light.” one final time, just a bit harder, enough to dent the wall “Victory…”

He had heard him approaching as he spoke, if something Guilliman had to give it credit was for braveness. 

“Remind me to vox the Factorium to get this repaired.” admitted the Primarch in a bit of a defeated tone he shouldn't be showing in front of anybody. But there was this unspoken treaty written between them, one that discussed the secret trade of snippets from himself he must not be let out. 

Ovidius hesitated for a moment before stepping forward, closing the gap between them even more. The tension in the air felt almost electric. He saw him take a deep breath, then gesture at him with an outstretched hand. 

“Lord Guilliman, follow me” he said softly.

Guilliman studied the gesture, unsure if the queue meant that he only wished to be followed or for the Primarch to take his hand. Which seemed very silly by all accounts. Theoretical: he does want him to grab his hand. Practical… 

He reached out and grasped Sulla’s hand, their fingers intertwining in a tentative hold, already regretting the choice his body had made without him thinking properly, was Roboute Guilliman that tired his body acted on primal thought? Ovid’s eyes opened widely, confirming that he didn’t have the expectation nor plan for the Lord of Ultramar to make any physical contact. Yet instead of letting go he clutched the bigger hand tighter. Roboute felt an unknown rush of warmth flooding through him with the contact, which he couldn’t identify the reason for as both men were separated by a mechanized steel and ceramite.  

Without waiting for a response, he turned and led him through the lesser-populated hallways of the ship, their footsteps echoing in the quiet corridors. Giving a reassuring glance back from time to time. Even if Guilliman’s grip loosened as they walked, his didn't, no matter how awkward it was to hold his armored hand by a normal sized human. 

They arrived at a small observation deck, a hidden gem that overlooked a vast expanse of the galaxy. Stars twinkled in the distance, the brilliance of the cosmos casting a serene light across the room. Ovidius turned to face Guilliman,  gesturing toward the spectacle before them. 

The accountant finally let his gauntlet go and took a seat on the sailing, resting his body on the voidship grade glass. 

“I’ve been juggled between ships most if not all my life, every time I’ve found myself overwhelmed in the ships,” Ovidius began, his voice steady “I would try to find a pier facing outside, in these times making sure it is away from the Cicatrix Maledictum, that opening to the warp.” He pointed toward the vastness outside, where the darkness of the warp loomed threateningly, a stark reminder of the chaos that could spill into their reality at any moment. “Instead, I’d seek out a view overlooking the actual galaxy, remembering that my job is for them,” he said, indicating the stars that flickered with life and potential. “At least that’s what I tell myself, maybe I am also full of that hope that bothers you.” 

Guilliman’s expression shifted, the weight of his burdens momentarily lightened by the beauty before them. The Primarch’s eyes softened, the deep blue depths reflecting the starlight.

“Hope is not what worries me it is…” he couldn’t keep talking, he had already shed too much of his shell in front of the man. There was a long silence in which Guilliman joined Ovid, seating by the window, just at an arm's reach and with an effort due to the bulkiness of his armor. 

“You seemed to have found your way easily around this ship, I don’t think I’ve ever been in these parts.” Guilliman noted, dragging the charisma out of his tiredness to change the topic the best he could, even though he had calmed a bit, the sound of moving machinery beneath the walls was strangely soothing. 

Ovid smiled and nodded, the afterglow on his expression denoted his understanding of The Primarch’s attempt to change topics. 

“I could find my way around any unknown ship faster than in my home town, or any town, after this long I’ve grown to find non vessel places daunting.” His new head of the Logisticarum drove eyed the passing starry landscape, at the distance there was a nebula with the same hue of his eyes. 

“You tend to speak about Maccrage with nostalgia but is there also apprehension I sense in your tone?” He asked politely. 

"I was born in the deep countryside of Macragge, a place far removed from the greater cities my homeworld has. But it, and the planet I came from, are strange to me. I was taken into the Administratum by recruitment when I was very young, my Lord. I've spent most of my life far away from the worlds of Ultramar.” his tone relaxed before returning back to its formal iteration “But those are some things you may know pretty well from the dossier you read."

Guilliman listened closely, noting the careful, practiced tone of a man who had explained his story many times but rarely with any personal investment. There was something almost clinical about it, as though Sulla spoke of another person’s life, not his own.

“But what if this time I want to hear it from you? You’ve seen how Imperial documents tend to fail at… ” his head reviewed term after term, not finding the correct one. “... capturing the true soul of things.” No, that still wasn’t the correct word he had in mind. 

“Want to capture my soul my lord?”  The question sounded innocent enough but there was an underlying tone in it that Guilliman couldn’t decipher, and there was that weird heat again. He looked at the ventilation system intake, he may need to order getting it checked around the ship. 

"I’ve kept contact with my family, of course," Ovidious continued. "I know of them; their names, their lives, what they are up to, but it feels… distant. I speak our planet’s language, but my accent is wrong. It’s more like that of an immigrant just learning."

He sighed softly, face dragging a cheek on the window, a rare crack in the formal veneer he always maintained. Guilliman could see the tension in his shoulders, the discomfort of a man who found himself between two worlds but fully belonging to neither.

"They..." Sulla hesitated for a brief moment, his voice softening. "They have managed to send me some family pictures a couple times despite me ranting to them about the expenses they would have had to pay.” he paused “They look similar to me, you know? I have my mother’s nose and my father’s eyes. The silhouette of an identical jawline or the copy of the same mouth, but… it feels mismatched. Like I do not truly belong among them. Our expressions, our way of dressing, our body language. I often find myself thinking how I am as alien to them as the xenos we fight.”

As Guilliman processed those words, the sense of isolation that echoed in the man’s tone struck something deep within him. His brothers; his fellow Primarchs, had always been different, Jaghatai’s untamable soul, Lorgar’s zeal, Magnus’ lust for knowledge, Dorn’s stoicism… All connected by the same ‘father’ but with such different cultures and upbringings, views on… everything. Guilliman had always been the builder of empires, the one who sought to create something lasting amid the destruction. But that had always set him apart, even from his family.

For a moment, Guilliman felt the weight of his own disconnection pressing down on him. He was the son of the Emperor, a symbol for the Imperium; but what did that truly mean now? What did he represent, truly, in this new age where even the Emperor was but a fractured consciousness on the Golden Throne? And in many ways, like Ovidious, he too had been taken away from what he might have been, forced into roles and responsibilities that left little room for a personal identity.

Against his better judgment, Guilliman spoke, his voice quiet and more vulnerable than he intended.

 "I know something of what you mean, Sulla. I... have found myself a stranger, too. To my family. To this galaxy. To the Imperium I once sought to guide. And now this new… nightmarish place I woke up after 10,000 years, it has made me feel even more stranded. It can be, just as you had said, as alien to me as the xenos we fight." There was a beat of silence as he realized how much he had revealed, more than he ever intended. He quickly retracted, stiffening his posture and returning to a more formal tone. "But that is neither here nor there. We all have our roles to play."

But Ovidious the always perceptive, though, had caught the shift, he had over the months learned how to hear the unspoken truth beneath Guilliman's words, and his now attempt to return to professionalism. There was a pause as he weighed his response, his honey gaze studying Guilliman who pretended to ignore it.  With a soft but steady voice, Ovid spoke. 

"You can always talk to me if you wish, my Lord. You always know where to find me, anyways." His smile was short and sheepish. “Or don’t, silence is also fine."

Guilliman looked at him, the words sinking in, more comforting than he expected. It was such a simple offer, but it carried with it something profound. In the vastness of his duties, his responsibilities, and the expectations placed upon him, someone had quietly and earnestly offered him a space to simply be himself. It was disarming, and Guilliman found himself, for a moment, unsure how to respond.

He gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, acknowledging the offer without fully committing to it. 

"Thank you, Sulla," he said, his voice measured. "I will... keep that in mind."

“Just Ovidious is fine, at least when it is just the two of us.” the redhead interjected shily “Or Ovid, as you prefer.” he paused, the conflict on his expression showing the want of maybe taking back the words.  "Only if you wish, my Lord."

Guilliman’s eyes flickered back at the unexpected offer. There was a subtle shift in his expression, a moment where his formal exterior cracked just slightly, and his gaze met Ovidius’ with a hint of warmth that hadn’t been there before. The offer, much like the earlier one to talk, was an invitation. It was Ovidius offering Guilliman a small sliver of normalcy; something human, something grounded. And Guilliman realized how much he longed for that, how much he needed someone who wasn’t just a subordinate or a follower but someone he could connect with, even in these brief, stolen moments.

“Just Roboute then, at least when it is just the two of us.” he proposed in exchange before realizing what he was saying, to his and Ovid’s surprise.

Ovidius froze, his gaze hovering over the galaxy outside, eyes then lifting slowly to meet Guilliman’s. The air between them suddenly felt charged, as if a sacred boundary had been crossed. Guilliman felt it too, the weight of what he had just said sinking in. But he didn’t backtrack. Instead, after a brief, tense pause, he added quietly:

 “Only if you wish… Ovidious.” 

For a moment, Ovidius looked as if he didn’t quite believe what he had heard. 

"Roboute?" he repeated, as if trying out the name, feeling the weight of it. 

"You don’t have to," Guilliman quickly added, sensing the weight of his own words and the surprise in Ovidius’ expression. He felt vulnerable in a way he hadn’t felt in centuries.

But Ovidius’ eyes softened, and he smiled, a small, genuine smile. 

"If that’s what you wish and not because you feel obliged to," he said gently, "Roboute."

Hearing his own name spoken like that, without the weight of command behind it, sent an unfamiliar shiver down Guilliman’s spine. He hadn’t realized how much he missed it; being called by his name, not his titles. He gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, his composure slipping ever so slightly.

 "Yes," he replied, his voice low and steady, "I think... I would like that."

And with that, the space between them felt different. Less rigid. More human. Ovidius went back to observing the galaxy, but the atmosphere had shifted.. Guilliman, for the first time in a long while, felt the warmth of genuine companionship. They spent a long while sitting in silence, observing the stars go by. It wasn’t uncomfortable nor bothersome, just for this moment he was immersed in a moment that didn’t expect anything out of him. The space around them seemed to shrink, the distant stars fading into the background as he focused back into the man. 

“Thank you for bringing me here,” Guilliman said, his voice a husky whisper, laden with unspoken emotions.

“One of my functions is to lessen your burden, my Lo… Roboute.” they held their gazes in silence again. “Are you ready to return?” 

“Are you ready to guide me again?” What made it ask that question? He had a superhuman mind and was capable of memorizing entire books in seconds, Ovidious also knew it, remembering the couple turns they took on the ship was nothing for him.

“So apart from me needing to save you from the oh so horrible plastek flimsies every time you have to wear that armor, does it make it now that I have to guide you through your own ship?” He stood up and grabbed Guilliman by the Hand of Dominion, having to use both of his to even grip it properly due to its sheer size. “Just this once, don’t get used to it.” 

[loading-mag]

Oh, Leon

(Not my gif)

Did you know:

Leon had a girlfriend before he left for Raccoon City and since he had to head there fast, he broke up with his girlfriend before he left?

Summary: Leon leaving his girlfriend so selfishly forever haunts him as she was so understanding even in such a situation but what happens when one mission his temporary partner holds a shockingly close resemblance…

Timeframe: Around Resident Evil 6

Word count: 1.3k

CW: Canon-typical violence, toxic relationship (not really though, reader blames stuff on herself and Leon sucks at communicating), major injuries (not too graphic), hurt/comfort(?), let know if I missed any

A/N: I just feel so bad for this man…also, this wasn’t a request, I just wanted to post so people got the gist of my writing. This is not proofread well, sorry! And I don’t have access to my laptop right now so this was on my phone.

“Oh, Leon…”

He froze as he stared into those all too familiar eyes, any words lost with the shock of seeing your face again.

“I wish I could say you look well these days but even you know that would be a lie…” you admitted as you stood across from him, watching him tense under your gaze.

“I-…” he started but stopped himself, worried he might say something to anger you, which would be almost impossible. “It’s alright. You don’t need to say anything. Just so you know, I’m not angry about what happened back then. What’s to be is to be.”

“Let’s go. We need to start briefing,” is all he said as he made his way past you to the briefing room. “Hey, Leon,” you called as you turned him. He stopped but made no move to look at you.

“I’m still interested in you…but don’t feel any obligation to me. I know you have a lot to deal with these days. Forgive me…”

Though you didn’t see it, Leon’s eyes welled up with tears, face scrunching slightly with a tiny sniffle as he forced them back down.

Maybe he realized why he was with you in the first place, someone understanding and patient, though he thinks you're insane for asking for forgiveness when it’s him that should have been asking for forgiveness.

Leon continued to the briefing room with you close behind.

——

Your mission started off without a hitch but as you progressed the enemies and B.O.W’s became tougher. At the start, communication was limited as it was not required with weaker enemies but if the lack of communication continued then someone could seriously get hurt, you and Leon both knew that.

You two headed towards a massive double door leading to an old cathedral-like building. “This should be where the evidence is kept,” Leon stated.

You reached the doors, back against the walls beside them, guns ready. Leon slowly pushed one door open, peeking inside but the dark obstructed his vision inside. He looked to you as a signal to be ready to storm him as soon as he pushed the doors open. You looked back at him, whilst to signal you were ready but you swore time froze as you looked at each other.

Leon was the first to breakaway as he kicked the doors open. You both entered, checking every corner while aiming your guns with your flashlights.

You two searched on opposite corners of the cathedral. It seemed eerily quiet as you looked for any enemies or the evidence you came to collect.

While you were investigating the altar at the front, Leon was inspecting the near the murals on the right side. He heard a soft but strange noise and followed it with his light up to the ceiling only to land on the massive chandelier near the altar.

His eyes widened.

A massive B.O.W laid across the chandelier as it chewed on the base of the support. Leon tensed, as he wondered how he missed such a beast above him.

He looked down to see you unaware of the monster above you as you read old text on the altar. He took cautious steps towards you.

“Hey…slowly step away from there…” he spoke as lowly as possible to you with the distance between you guys. You move your gaze to him with a questioning look but still made a move to stand. Before Leon could even motion to the B.O.W above you, it made a loud growling noise causing you both to focus your flashlights towards it.

You froze at the sight of it as it took a massive bite of the chandelier base causing it to only hang from a wire.

“(Y/N)!” Leon shouted to you but before you could make for a sprint it started to fall.

Without hesitation, Leon accelerated towards you. He grabbed you by your waist as you threw you two out of the chandeliers' vicinity with his body weight.

Your vision blurred as you hit the floor. You felt Leon get off of you and went to inspect you only to hear the roar of the beast again. It seemed he had said something to you but you couldn’t hear it, all you could make out was him giving you a look that seemed to be an apology and made his way to the fiery wreckage of the chandelier where the beast stood.

It took a few minutes before the ringing in your ear stopped as you writhed on the floor. You went to sit up only to feel an excruciating pain in your side. You look down to your abdomen to see an ugly deep wound from the glass piece, most likely from when the chandelier fell. Your fear worsened at the sight and you were about to start hyperventilating only to hear a loud groan ahead.

In the midst of the mess you saw Leon being held up by the B.O.W by one hand, the other ready for a finishing blow.

You look around you to see your gun a meter to your left. You use whatever strength you have to crawl over to it. You reach for it and in one motion grab it and aim for the big red beating organ in its chest.

It fell to the floor in agony, dropping Leon in the process. Leon shot up, grabbing his gun and aiming it at the monster. With a last check that it was defeated, he looked towards you only to see you drop your gun and lay your head back down.

“(Y/N)!” He started towards you. Once he reached you he took your head and rested it on his lap. He saw the big wound in your side and took his receiver to request for rescue.

He saw you slowly move out of consciousness, “Hey…hey, I got you, okay? Stay with me.” He rested his palm on your forehead, moving your hair out of the way. “The…evidence… I saw…ugh, it…in a…hidden compartment…in the altar,” you struggled out.

He was baffled that you said that in a time like this but in a way it reminded him of himself. “We’ll worry about that later, right now you need to focus on yourself.”

You looked at him with such love in your eyes it made him want to die. How could he ever let this happen to you?

“Oh, Leon…”

Is the last thing you said as you heard helicopters in the distance and slipped out of consciousness.

——

“Hey, Leon…did you know that I became a secret agent so I could find you. Maybe I was too desperate, you could have already had a badass girlfriend by now,” you chuckled out.

You had just awoken since the mission and Leon turned to you in shock. His gaze then softened.

“You’re crazy,” he told you with a small smile.

“I just had to see you again. You left with such haste, I just wanted some closure but I heard what happened in Raccoon City…I just wanted you to be happy but maybe if I was more stubborn to not let you leave then you could’ve lived the life you wanted…” you admitted to him with a sad smile.

“You’re seriously blaming yourself for what happened to me?! God! You're still the same!” He sounded more concerned than angry as he let out a sad sigh.

He made his way towards your recovery bed. He stood there for a few minutes before gathering you in his arms. You could feel him shaking and a wet spot form on your shirt.

He is crying…

“I love you.”

“…”

“It’s okay, take as much time as needed.”

“…thank you.”

***

Should I make a part two or is it better to end there?

Well, thanks for reading my first post! Make sure to send in requests!

[jennnaperrcy]

Festival

A/N: Inspired by the other author on Tumblr (sorry, I can't remember the name). Also, English is not my first language, so if you see any mistakes, please let me know.  summary: How new abilities and a night out can be life-changers word count: 6k+ warnings: swearing 

 Their relationship had never been good, to say the least. It seemed that this silly rivalry began as soon as she set foot on Nevermore's doorstep.

 Within the first fifteen minutes, she had managed to bump into Xavier while looking down the large hallway. Unfortunately, the guy was carrying paints and brushes to work on a mural in the courtyard.

"Hey, watch it, you idiot!" he snorted angrily.

"Oh God, I'm so sorry," y/n muttered as she helped pick up the scattered art supplies. One of the paint cans had a loose handle, and as y/n tried to lift it, it broke, spilling the acrylic all over the floor and the young man's trousers.

"Shit! Don't touch anything in here and get out!" he shouted, eyes wide with rage.

 She looked down at her feet and hurriedly left the place. Another fifteen minutes later, y/n stood in the doorway of her own dormitory. Her roommate was a vampire named Yoko Tanaka. The dark-haired girl greeted her new student warmly and helped her unpack while telling y/n a little about the school and its inhabitants. From their conversation, y/n realised that Yoko could be described as the local gossip girl. The vampire was well aware of all the latest news at the school.

"So, are we done with your stuff? Come on, I'll introduce you to the best members of Nevermore," she said with a grin.

"Principal Weems said I should pick up my books and timetable after I get settled in," Y/N replied quietly.

"Don't worry, it's on its way. Oh look! It's just about the end of extra lessons, so everyone will be in the courtyard," Yoko said as she took y/n under her arm and led her down the corridors.

  After crossing several floors and corners, the girls found themselves back in a hall with an archway leading directly to the courtyard. As they passed the janitor, Yoko's face twisted in disgust.

"God, what happened here? Did someone throw up or something?" she said, looking at the puddle of yellow paint. Y/N decided not to talk about what happened in her first hour there.

  As they approached, Yoko let go of her new companion and ran towards the blonde girl. The two of them had a squeal that would have been audible all the way back in the town. Y/N stood on the sidelines, not sure where to place herself.

"Hey guys, let me introduce you to my new roommate, Y/N. Y/N, this is our little group. We usually meet here after class. You're always welcome to join us! This is Enid," she said pointing to the girl she had hugged a few minutes ago, "and this is her roommate, Wednesday."

"It's nice to see the gloom and fear on your face," the strange goth girl said coldly. The words sent shivers down y/n's arms.

"You'll get used to it," Yoko said and turned her attention back to the other students.

Y/N tried hard to remember that the guys with the bright blue eyes were sirens. Bianca, Divina and Kent. The young man with the beanie was Ajax, Enid's boyfriend. And the guy with the big eyes and the cute curls was Tyler.

"Xavier, could you please stop painting the bloody wall for a moment? I am introducing everyone to our new student!" Yoko called to the other side of the courtyard.

  As soon as y/n looked in the direction the vampire had shouted, she was horrified. "God, this is so embarrassing," y/n thought. Looking straight at her shoes, she seemed ready to dig herself into the ground.

"Y/N, this is Xavier Thorpe, our resident tortured artist. Xavier, this is my new roommate y/n."

"What a lovely coincidence! We've already met. Haven't we, y/n?" he said with a grin.

Embarrassment and shame consumed y/n more and more, so she had no choice but to abruptly run off towards the faculty wing, hoping to find a teacher to help her with the principal's task. 

"It's not nice to leave without a proper goodbye!" She overheard his voice. 

  Later, y/n thought about the fact that she was definitely not going to be friends with this guy.

 Over the next couple of months, y/n had become more open to other people. The adjustment period was over and she had a sense of self-confidence. Along with y/n's progress in communication, her abilities also developed. The girl was psychic. With the power of thought she could control various small things. In the past her power had been rather chaotic, but now she could control it well.

  Y/N found a common ground with Yoko's company quite quickly. It turned out that Enid and Bianca were big fashion fans. Because of this common interest, the girls began to have sleepovers where they would put on little runway shows, play with make-up or just gossip about the other students. Every trip to Jericho was a great fun for the company. The girls would go shopping for hours, while the boys would sit in the computer club. At the end of the day everyone would gather at the Weathervane for a hot drink. It was always fun and joy, right up to the point where y/n and Xavier had a forehead bump. Each of their encounters always ended in a verbal altercation. One day their argument went so far that she lost control of her powers and threw a sugar bowl at him with her mind. As luck would have it, it hit him in the arm, but he spent the next week with a bandage on his wrist anyway.

  She didn't understand why his mere presence was enough to irritate her. It was enough just to be in the same room as him. The worst part was that it all contradicted the fact that he was quite attractive on the outside. Only a blind man wouldn't have noticed the features, the hair, the height. The thought that he was really handsome was even more annoying. Every time she caught herself thinking about it, she cringed and got irritated.

 This morning brought something new to her besides the daily frustration. It was anger. Yes, y/n was angry because she had a dream about him that night. The dream was so vivid and alive that it seemed to be happening in real life. He looked at her with a look that was completely different from the ones that sizzled her essence every day. It was something soft and gentle. His arms held her little body tightly, giving her warmth. She, on the other hand, pressed harder against him, wrapping her arms around his neck. Her cheek was pressed against his chest. He also spoke of how beautiful she was. "Damn bastard is now chasing me in my own sleep," y/n thought to herself as she climbed out from under the covers of her bed. Without a word she grabbed a towel from the chair and headed for the shower, hoping the cold water would help her forget this nightmare.

"Good morning to you too, sweetie," she heard Yoko's voice from the room.

  After a quick shower, y/n began to apply her make-up. This Friday was a shortened day, and right after class the students had to go to Jericho for the local harvest festival. Divina and Enid had been talking about the festival all week. Putting the finishing touches on her make-up, y/n pulled her hair back into a careless braid, with strands falling over her face and shoulders, and changed from her nightgown to her uniform.

"What was that earlier in the dorm?" Yoko asked on her way to class.

"Nothing, just another nightmare," Y/N replied. It was clear from her intonation that this was the end of the conversation. That's why y/n loved Yoko so much. The vampire never asked more than she had to. And when y/n said that everything was fine and nothing had happened, it meant "I don't want to talk about it now". Yoko accepted and respected her roommate's personal boundaries.

  As they approached the conservatory, the girls met Wednesday and Enid. The young werewolf gave y/n a worried look, but said nothing for fear of upsetting her friend or making her angry even more. As they entered the classroom, the girls stood at Yoko and Enid's desk, discussing plans for their evening trip into town.

"I'd rather poke my eyes out with needles than go to that stupid fair," Addams said.

"Are you really trying to convince us that you don't like cotton candy and stuffed animals?" y/n said sarcastically, which made the other girls laugh.

"Well then, I'll take a portable guillotine," she replied with a short pause, "to be more effective at decapitating teddy bear heads." With that, the girl sat down at her desk and took out notebooks.

The others followed her lead and took their seats.  Y/N took her usual place next to another psychic, Rowan. Rowan wasn't the kind of person who enjoyed socializing, but he was always willing to help out. They exchanged a few words during class. But they never found anything in common to talk about. Y/N's desk was located almost directly next to Mrs Thornhill's, allowing her to look out over a conservatory. Just seconds before the bell rang, Ajax and Xavier flew in. The young men were not known for their punctuality, which was always a source of frustration to the teachers. As they settled into their seats, Xavier glanced in y/n's direction. "Nice braid," popped into her head.

"Did you say something?" she turned to Rowan.

"No," he replied with a furrowed brow, "is everything all right?"

"Sorry, I must have misheard."

  She'd had a bad headache the whole time she'd been in class. It had happened before when her psychic abilities had developed, but why now? Y/N was in complete control of her power, and the pain hadn't bothered her for months. Forty minutes later, the ringing in her ears was so bad that she could barely hear Ms Thornhill. There was no more strength to bear it.

"Miss Thornhill, I'm sorry," she said, raising her hand. The attention of the whole class was now focused on the girl, "Can I go to the infirmary? I don't feel well."

"Of course! Who's finished the summary and ready to hand it in?" only one student raised his hand. "Shit! You've got to be kidding me." "Amazing, Xavier. Would you be so kind as to escort miss y/l/n to the infirmary?"

  With those words, Thornhill continued with the lesson. Enid and Yoko had a nervous glance at each other. They were well aware of the nature of their relationship and that leaving them alone was as dangerous as releasing piranhas into a pool full of injured people. Y/N gathered her things and headed straight for the Infirmary, not bothering to wait for her companion to arrive.

"Was the lecture so boring that you had to pretend to feel bad? I have to admit that was a clever move," he told her, "or did Rowan get to you? It's really hard to communicate with him. I share a dorm with that weirdo," he continued, "I swear he scares me sometimes."

"Would you just keep your mouth shut for a minute?" She shouted as she stopped and turned to face him. The pain in her head was so unbearable that every little noise made her whimper slightly.

"Can you not be such a pain in my butt? On a side note, I wasn't exactly an eager volunteer to come along with you. So please don't be a bitch," he said, stepping around her. "Why did you say that, you fucking moron?" his voice echoed in her head.

  As y/n continued her walk to the infirmary, she felt her eyes glaze over and her body lose its balance. She tried to call out to the boy, but all that came out of her lips was a low whisper.

"Hey, have you turned into some kind of statue or what?" he said as he turned. She fell to the ground in front of him, unconscious, "What the fuck?! Y/N, do you hear me?"

 Without wasting a second, Xavier took the girl in his arms in a bridal style and ran to the infirmary. Several times on the way he thought she opened her eyes and called his name, but as soon as he looked at her he saw the same pale face.

"It's OK, can you hear me? We're here now," the boy looked from her to the nurse, "Hurry, we need help, she's fainted.

  Slowly, the fog in front of her eyes lifted and the headache subsided. Panting, she tried to sit down on the bed, but someone's warm hands gently stopped her, placing an extra pillow under her head and back.

"Hush, don't hurry," a soft voice said. Blinking several times, she saw Xavier sitting next to her bed.

"What happened? How long have I been here? Am I anaemic?" the guy just smiled and shook his head.

"You have talent, you know! It's not even a minute since you got up and you're already getting on my nerves," he said without any anger in his voice, "To answer your questions: you fainted and I brought you here," he bent a digit, "about 30 or 40 minutes at the most," the boy bent another digit, "and no, it's not anaemia. The nurse's opinion is that you're probably just overtired from your studies. Unless it has something to do with your abilities."

"Who else knows?" Y/N asked, ignoring his last words.

“Yoko and Bianca are here, getting recommendations for your care. I think someone's going to miss the festival tonight.”

"I'm fine," y/n said briefly. She stood up abruptly from the bed, which made her feel a bit dizzy. Xavier carefully put an arm around her waist.

"I told you not to hurry. What's wrong with you?" Y/N could see concern in his eyes.

"Since when do you give a fuck about my condition?" She replied sarcastically, shaking his hand from her back. A part of Y/N's mind made him want to grab her even harder, but Xavier obediently let go of his hand.

"These tricks of yours may work on the others, but not on me. What's going on?" There she was, another reason why Xavier Thorpe pissed her off so much: the guy didn't care what she said when it was obvious to him that something was wrong. After they had stared at each other for a few minutes, she let out a breath.

"I'm just really tired. Are you happy now?"

"No, but you're in no shape for any more mockery on my part."

"That's nice of you," the nurse entered the room and handed out the pills and the prescription.

Yoko and Bianca were in fact sitting in the waiting room at the time. When they saw their friend, they jumped up and gave her a big hug.

"Damn it, you scared the hell out of us!" they said in unison.

"It's all right, just a bit dizzy, that's all," y/n tried to convince them with a smile.

"See you at the festival," the boy said with a nod to Yoko and Bianca. He was about to leave the infirmary when he heard her speak.

"Xavier, thank you," the taste of his name on her tongue was odd. He only smiled slightly, but for some reason that damned smile sent a pleasant shiver through her body. And that feeling made Y/N angry again.

"Sinclair, I swear to God, one more outfit change and I'll pass out again," y/n said jokingly. They'd been sitting in Enid and Wednesday's room for two hours now, waiting for the blonde to pick out an outfit for the festival.

"I promise this is the last one. I just want to look good. After all, Ajax and I have a date."

"It's a waste of time either way," Addams said as she looked at her watch, "and the bus to Jericho leaves in twenty minutes. Unless you want to jog through the woods, you'd better hurry."

 The carnival at the festival looked impressive. Lots of rides and food stalls. The place looked like a small amusement park with bright lights and loud music. The weather was fine, even though it was late afternoon. The company immediately split into small groups based on their interests. Enid and Ajax went on the Ferris wheel. Divina, Tyler, Kent and Yoko queued up for the hot dogs. Bianca and Wednesday went to the shooting range to see who could get the most points. Y/N felt another stab of pain in her temples, which made her head for the gazebo by the pond. Not for long did the pleasure of the silence last.

"Not looking forward to the festival?" the tall boy said, leaning against the railing of the gazebo where she was standing.

"And you're stalking me now?" she replied, still looking at the surface of the water.

"I thought about getting on your nerves on the bus, but I felt sorry for the people around us."

"Were you afraid they would see you in misery?"

"I didn't want your righteous anger to blow up the bus and hurt the others," he grinned lazily. Sometimes y/n wondered if he'd been born with that stupid grin on his face.

"What do you want, Thorpe?" she asked, rolling her eyes. As soon as she turned to face him, the girl realised how close he was standing to her.

"I think I've answered that question before," he said with a thoughtful expression.

"What do you want from me now?" she asked, moving a little closer to him.

"Oh, you don't want to know, dove," he said, leaning slightly towards her. There were literally a few inches between them. Any passerby would have thought they were a couple, about to kiss. In fact, they were burning each other with glances, testing each other's patience. 

  Y/N was ready to swear on the Holy Bible that 'Come on, Y/N' ran through her head with his voice. The girl rose slightly on her toes, practically sliding her nose down his cheek. The young man felt her warm breath against his ear.

"Two can play at this game, Thorpe. So back off," y/n whispered, but she didn't move. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the boy exhale heavily at her action. The sight of it sent a wave through her body. No, not anger, it was a wave of excitement and adrenaline. They'd never been this close before. The feeling that it was so wrong and yet so alluring sent her body into a dance.

"I'm afraid you're right, we can both play," Xavier whispered back to her. Then he placed his hand on her waist. Almost as he'd done earlier at the nurses' station, when he'd prevented another fall.

  She didn't notice as he took another step towards her so that their bodies were now touching. Even though they were still separated by layers of clothing, the contact burned. The grip on y/n's waist tightened a little, causing her to exhale sharply. The inner voice of her mind screamed at her that this had to stop, that she should just take a step back and put an end to the stupid show. But the demons in her chest cheered sickly. The thoughts and dreams she had chased away for so long, the ones she was angry at, now filled her entire mind. The way he smelled was something she had never noticed before. The woody scent of cologne mixed with the scent of acrylic paint. Barely perceptible notes of coffee created their own symphony with the faintly detectable scent of weed. Surely he and Ajax must have smoked a joint in his dormitory before they left. Complementing this melody of scents was the fragrance of fresh shampoo. Y/N lifted her head slightly and stared at his hair. It looked so silky she wanted to run her fingers through it. To feel the softness between her digits.

  Xavier, on the other hand, couldn't take his eyes off her face. Everything about y/n's features screamed tenderness, vulnerability. When he looked at her, he always remembered their first meeting, how quiet and modest she had been. But then he remembered what she was like now and realised that he had made her into that crazy beast with the glowing eyes and pouting lips. The way she always hid her smile at the sight of him, wrinkling her neat nose and squinting her eyes. He loved the way she could turn on a moment's notice. Even when she threw the damn sugar bowl at him with the force of her mind, he was amazed. It couldn't have been healthy to admire the results of his taunts at her, but he couldn't stop. And now, looking into those bottomless y/e/c eyes, he was deliberately testing the waters. "How long can you keep this up?" his mind raced.

"I could go on like this for the rest of the evening, Thorpe. The question is, do you want to continue this fun little game?" y/n said as if in response to his thoughts. There was a challenge in her eyes. And then she did something that set fire to his chest.

  With one swift movement, she pulled him to her by the collar of his coat. Her lips touched the thin skin above his Adam's apple. Xavier Thorpe had never known the existence of that weak spot, as if it had been waiting to be discovered. With a hot, open-mouthed kiss, she nuzzled a spot. And following that touch, he felt a small tongue trace circles on his skin. He could have sworn he saw sparks in front of his eyes. But the pleasure didn't last long. A few moments later, y/n retreated from him with an innocent look and slowly walked back towards the festival.

  As she approached the picnic table where all her friends were eating hot dogs, she couldn't help but admit that what was happening in that gazebo was making her very emotional. It was as if an electric shock had been sent through her body. But then a wave of awareness and terror washed over her. She loved it and wanted to go on. For the moment she kissed him, she could hear his every thought. He was thinking about a million things and nothing at the same time. With her little act she turned his mind upside down and she loved the fact that she had a power over him. Y/N could literally feel his demons on her tongue, the way he trembled treacherously.

"Y/N, are you all right? Your face is flushed, like you have a fever," Tyler asked, turning his attention back to the girl. 

"Yeah, I guess I'm not dressed for the weather," the company didn't hear the rest of her explanation as Xavier reappeared. 

"Bro, what's that on your neck?" Ajax poked at a small hickey with his finger. 

"Some kind of mosquito bite or something," Xavier shrugged and blinked at y/n. He waited for her reaction. 

"Careful, Thorpe, you do not get rabies. Mosquitoes are disease carriers, in case you didn't know. You have to be more precise," she replied with a grin. The girls at the table laughed. Even Wednesday couldn't resist a laugh, 

"OK, where's my hot dog?!"

  A week had passed since the day of the festival. And in that whole week they had never crossed paths. Even in the group, if y/n saw him with her friends, she would stealthily avoid them. In class, she never took her eyes off her textbooks. And any trips to Jericho were carefully discouraged. The reason y/n avoided Xavier was because of his thoughts. She could hear him at night. The sound of her name on his lips. She saw what he saw in his dreams. His imagination pictured the two of them in that gazebo. How he held her against him, kissing her roughly, how she moaned against his lips and he couldn't hold back a growl in response. How the sweet kiss broke, both of them breathing hard. How her fingers ruffled the hair at the back of his neck.

   As for Xavier, he was obsessed with the thought of her. The girl who used to cause irritation in his chest just by looking at him now made his heart beat wildly. He sought her gaze in the crowd, tried to meet her in their group and in classes, but she stubbornly avoided him. And that pissed him off twice as much. How could she do such a thing and then disappear? What an evil, heartless bitch she had to be to get someone hooked on a needle. Only instead of the drug, it was her. Her smell, her eyes, her slightly clumsy and hurried pace. How could someone become addicted overnight? The obsessive thoughts of the girl never left him, even at night. This made Xavier spend more hours in his shed. It was only when he poured his visions and thoughts onto canvas that he felt better. Looking at the number of her portraits, it was safe to say that he was obsessed. And it infuriated him with renewed vigour.

"So today I am going to hand out the promised group assignments that you have to complete by the end of this weekend! And I recommend that you do your work with the utmost responsibility, because your final grade for the semester will depend on it. You can find your partner and the topic of the assignment in the lists at the exit of the conservatory! Thank you all, our lesson is over," Thornhill concluded as she dismissed the students for a well-earned rest.

   As she approached the lists, y/n spotted Divina and Kent cheering. Brother and sister were remarkably well-bonded. Divina was the brain behind their duo, Kent the performer. Just ahead of them, Ajax and Tyler were discussing their task. Enid was paired with Rowan.

"Shit," the girl said in a frustrated voice. She'd hoped her desk mate would be her partner on this project. As she scanned the list below, y/n finally found her name. Next to her last name was Xavier's. "Hell, no. No! No! No!" she thought.

"Who did you get?" asked Yoko.

"Thorpe... Fucking bloody Thorpe!"

"I would ask you not to use language, we still have a project to work on together," the young man seemed to appear out of nowhere just behind the girls. After he had appeared, the vampire whispered something to her friend and turned back to her partner.

 Completely ignoring his joke, y/n shoved a sheet of paper with the topic of the assignment into his chest and hurriedly tried to leave the classroom. She was about to disappear into the crowd when he grabbed her wrist.

"Not so fast, dove. There's something I'd like to discuss." That's the nasty grin on his face. "Go ahead, y/n, get angry. Spit venom at him. All week you've been hiding from him so well, and now fate is challenging you. Pull yourself together, you wimp," she thought, looking at him. 

"Let's divide the subject into two parts. I'll do the theory, you do the practice," she muttered, her eyes fixed on the buttons of his shirt. She'd never realised how tall Xavier really was. She could barely reach the notch in his collarbone with her nose. 

"Great, let's exchange the first notes tomorrow. I'll meet you near the fountain after lunch," he said casually. It was just another little way for him to make her nervous. And he took undisguised pleasure in it.

   As agreed, y/n sat down on the grass by the fountain in the courtyard after lunch on Saturday. Around her were various encyclopaedias and notebooks. As well as taking notes, she made small sketches and occasionally cut and pasted something into her workbook. Xavier watched from the sidelines for about 30 minutes. He was fascinated by the enthusiasm with which she threw herself into the process. Especially when it came to projects like this. As he approached the girl, he pulled his sketchbook out of his bag.

"You're half an hour late," she said sternly, without a greeting, "I'm not going to do all the work for you."

"I'm sorry, I didn't hear a proper greeting," he said as he sat down on the grass. 

"Look, Thorpe," she looked at him with a piercing stare, "I'm not here to continue these stupid games. I need an A in this class. And if you're not interested in good grades, get the hell out of here. I can do this on my own. But if you decide to get down to business, please stop playing around.

 After this angry tirade from the girl, they never exchanged another word, except about the project. Xavier decided to get creative with his presentation.

"What if, during the story, I put our sketches to life by visually describing the plant's processes?" 

"Not a bad idea, we should definitely try it," y/n replied with a slight smile, without taking her eyes off her notes.

  After a few hours of painstaking work, the pair had completed the main part of the assignment. There were still a few sketches to be made. Xavier took over. Picking up her things from the grass, the girl looked at her watch and realised they had missed dinner.

"Crap, we missed dinner." 

"I had some apple pie leftovers from Ajax's mother in my shed. There was supposed to be some soda too." 

"You don't think I'd agree to spend an evening in your company after a peaceful day?" she asked with a raised eyebrow. Her notebooks were falling out of her hands and her bag was overloading one shoulder. 

"I think you can shove your pride up your ass when you're offered help with something as simple as dinner," he replied, parodying her. Without waiting for an answer, he took her heavy bag and some of her notebooks and headed for the woods. She had no choice but to follow.

  During the time they'd spent together, she hadn't heard a single thought from him, but as soon as she crossed the threshold of his shed, his voice echoed in her head, "And why am I doing this?"

"You know you don't have to do this, right?" she said quietly, shifting from foot to foot. 

"Can I answer a question with a question?" something in his gaze made her tense. She nodded, "How long have you been able to look into someone's mind and read their thoughts?"

"I don't... How did you..." y/n paused, "What makes you think I can?"

"I got my first inkling in the gazebo when you answered the question I had in my mind. And then I felt your presence in my head. It was as if my skull had been opened and my brain looked at". 

"I don't... I can't control it. This power only awakened in me a few days ago. When I get into someone's mind, believe me, it's completely by accident." 

"Well, I hope you get over it quickly," he said with a shrug, getting the rest of the pie and soda from the mini-fridge.

  After they had eaten and satisfied their hunger, there was an uncomfortable silence in the room. It was strange and unfamiliar. Just sitting in the same room without exchanging barbs.

"May I ask now?" y/n asked quietly, looking up at the young man who was now making small sketches on the canvas. He was probably working on their project. 

"Go ahead," he said, without taking his eyes off the canvas. 

"Why did you start that provocation at the festival?" her voice trembled at the question, making the boy look at her.

  She was curled up on a small old couch, hugging her own knees. Her eyes were fixed on the void. Xavier seemed to see the real her at that moment. So vulnerable and desperate. He quietly put the brush aside, rose from his seat and quietly walked over to her, crouching down in front of the girl. She was still staring off into space somewhere, nervously waiting for his answer. Xavier gently took her hands in his, stroking the backs of her palms with his thumbs.

"Y/N, look at me," she just closed her eyes and shook her head, "It wasn't a provocation. I felt your presence that day, and not just when you were physically there. I felt your thoughts, your mood. And when it left me seconds later, I couldn't resist the temptation to repeat the sensation. Besides, it seemed the only way to get your attention." 

"Attention? It sometimes frightens me to realise that all my attention is on you, Thorpe," the boy just shook his head and smiled slightly. 

"To tell you the truth, I've liked you from day one. When you bumped into me in the hallway, I didn't swear because you were what I called you. The whole day was going lousy and you just came under the hot hand. So I owe you an apology for my bad behaviour. 

"I forgive you." 

"Well, it was hard to stop after that. I decided that the only right way to talk to you was to fight and torment you all the time," she looked at him carefully now, "I'm just saying, if I had the chance to change the course of events, I would." 

"What would you do?" she asked hopefully. Only now did he notice her intense gaze. He slowly stood and held out his hand to her." I would apologise for my rudeness, as a gentleman should," he took a small step towards her, "then I would introduce myself," another small step, "and ask your name. After a while we would become more acquainted and I would ask you on a date where we would feel comfortable and hold hands. "

"Like now?" she intertwined their fingers in a lock. 

"Yes. At the end of the night, I'd walk you to the door of your dorm, thank you for a wonderful time, and..." he let go of her hands, placing one palm on her waist and the other in her hair. Y/N's palms moved slowly to his neck. They could feel each other breathing and their hearts beating in a frantic rhythm. Xavier could only hear his own blood pounding in his ears.

"Xavier?" both of them froze, undecided about taking a step. The last step that would be a chasm from the feelings that had been buried so long and so cruelly. She looked at him, hesitant to burn the damn bridge, looking for support in his thoughts, but it was silent, "What are you thinking about?"

"I just don't want to ruin it," he admitted, closing his eyes. And at that moment, the walls of his impregnable fortress collapsed. She saw the real Xavier Thorpe. The exhausted artist with so much darkness in his head and heart. She felt sharply all his wounds, all the pain his father had caused him, his unshared feelings. His fear ran through her. 

"Kiss me," she whispered. 

"What?" he asked, blinking several times. He was dreaming. Like he was about to wake up.

"Now, Thorpe."

 The sweetness of his lips washed over her in a wave of relief. The puzzle fell into place as she responded to his kiss and pulled the young man closer to her. All this time it hadn't been hate and anger. All these months she'd been falling in love with him, more and more every day. And she simply didn't understand what that feeling was. Only now, in this man's arms, did she feel light and calm. And the constant ringing in her head was gone. After a while they had to stop kissing because they ran out of air. But they didn't break contact for a second, touching their foreheads. The pleasant silence was broken when a gorgon suddenly entered.

"Is there any more of Mother's pie?" he asked, scratching his neck. 

"Ajax! I told you not to interfere!" hissed Enid.

  Looking out of the window, the couple noticed their friends who had been so shamelessly spying on them. Their momentary attempt to hide outside the window just made the young couple inside the studio laugh. Without further ado, he pulled the girl back to him and said the same three words in his head, just so she could hear them.

[starsreminisce]

What do you think is Elain's relationship with the cauldron and the mother?

You know, I haven't really been able to get a good feel for it either because I'll go one way and then go completely another. Sometimes I feel like the Cauldron is sated and happy Nesta gave back what it took, so we're not going to see any more of it, but there is also a part of me that thinks there are just some things that each sister is going to work through with their book, and the Cauldron is one of them. Elain and Lucien have quite a good chunk to get through, and I wonder if that's why we are going back to the Spring Court because of the mural Feyre saw and how it seems to begin with what Nesta saw in HOFAS through the tunnels. Like, in my head, Elucien would deal with/uncover what happened to Prythian 15k years ago, and then Gwynriel would deal with what happened during the war 500 years ago.

With her relationship to the Mother, this passage really stood out to me. Nesta was very deliberate in saying that she wants to give back her powers to save Feyre, the baby, and Rhys, and then she said that she changed herself so that they wouldn't have to go through this specific trauma again, especially since she's come to terms with the fact that Cassian is her mate and wants to accept the bond. But the tendrils of light had touched on all three sisters to Nyx, and I wonder if that's something SJM will come back to later, if she decides to go back to it at all.

The light glimmered down Feyre’s arms. Her legs. It suffused her ashen face. Began to fill the room. Cassian’s Siphons guttered, as if sensing a power far beyond his own, beyond any of theirs. Tendrils of light drifted between the sisters. And one, delicate and loving, floated toward Mor. To the bundle in her arms, setting the silent babe within glowing bright as the sun.

There is this sort of "I am not your strongest soldier!" energy that both Elain and Lucien seem to have for me. Lucien was willing to leave the court for Jesminda and stay in the Spring Court being second to Tamlin, and Elain was preparing to be wedded to Graysen and upkeep the home she would be receiving until they both found themselves in Hybern and experienced the moment that redefined what they wanted from life and how it's not what fate had in store for them.

I still have a very hard time believing in a two-mate theory, and the more I think about it, the more disgusted I become with it because of its implications. Not that it matters because Lucien doesn't behave any differently towards Elain than Cassian or Rhysand do to their mates; even the same verbiage has been used. SJM has not once foreshadowed two mates in ACOTAR, even when she had the opportunity to do so with Tamlin and Eris.

Alis and Rhys said the same exact thing, and essentially, it's fate.

“No.” Alis slung her satchel over a shoulder. “Go home. I’ll take you as far as the wall. There’s naught to be done now. Tamlin will remain her slave forever, and Prythian will stay under her rule. That’s what Fate dealt, that was what the Eddies of the Cauldron decided.”

“I’m serious.” I turned toward him and crossed my arms. “What decides it? Who decides it?” Rhys straightened his lapels before plucking an invisible piece of lint from them. “Fate, the Mother, the Cauldron’s swirling eddies …”

Hope this helps! Thank you again for asking!

[tabbyrp]

Day 7

@ronmanmob

Halloween had exploded over New York. Pumpkins sat dotted over brownstone steps and barely a storefront was without some form of sticky fake cobweb or dangling ghoulie type creature. Children, gleeful that the night of candy gathering had finally arrived, swarmed through the streets.

None of that seasonal mirth was present in Ron’s apartment, though his décor did retain an element of the macabre. Spread across one living room wall stretched clipping after clipping from newspapers, magazines, internet blogs - all bearing some variation of the headline which had once gripped the nation.

THE HALLOWEEN SLASHER. CARNAGE IN NEW YORK.

Tabby stood surveying Ron’s collection, already in her annual angel costume. Her wings were slightly crooked, white dress wrinkled at the hem. The dim glow from Ron’s solitary lamp caught the rhinestones she had stuck onto her Chucks, making them sparkle amid the gloom. “Is this why you don’t want to go out this year? You worried the guy is going to strike again.”

“Sumfin’ like tha’.” In one hand, Ron nursed a tumbler of whiskey. The other rolled a hacky sack back and forth, the beads gently rustling beneath the fabric as he reclined on the couch. “Safe’ah ta stay inside, Tabs.”

She hummed noncommittally while reading a sample of the articles Ron had printed up. Eighteen people dead. More hospitalized. Stab wounds inflicted so fast that the victims barely registered the mortal wound before the guy had moved on. All anyone had was hazy photos of the suspect, dressed all in black with a dime-store mask. “I don’t know,” Tabby mused. “Like, it’s super sad and I’m still sick to the stomach for everyone who got hurt. But I also don’t think we should let some asshole with a thing for 80s slasher movies stop us from living our lives.”

Ron didn’t have a rebuttal. The silence went on so long that Tabby glanced back at her friend, then left her study of his murder wall to join him on the couch. He took a shade longer to actually turn his weary gaze in her direction. Then sighed. “B’fore it was all sweets and tricks, they say this is th’night when th’veil is thin. Means th’dead can come ovvah from where they rest.”

The tilt to her head suggested Tabby wasn’t completely sold on this theory. Aware that sometimes Ron’s perception of the world could differ, she was only gently teasing when asking, “So, what, we’re hanging around your place in case ghosts come drop by to say hi?”

Ron put his drink to the side and dragged a hand down his face, even as the shards of his heart splintered anew. “No, Tabs. Just th’one.”

Her brows furrowed in confusion, even as a gash began to spread across her dress. Dark blood dripped down, staining the white to a murky red. “Ron, I’m…”

That was the image he remembered most. He wished it was the one from a few seconds before, when she was dancing in the middle of the street, waving back at where he stood on the sidelines. So full of joy. So happy. But then it was the panicked crowd, heaving and screaming as he tried to get through. How Tabby stood there, with that same puzzled expression, palm pressed to her belly and blood seeping between her fingers, as if she didn’t quite understand what had happened... right before collapsing in his arms.

The hacky sack bounced in Ron’s hand as he studied the floor. “I don’ even know if you’re here, Tabs, or just in m’head.” He squeezed the ball so tight, the stitches began to strain, until a whisper of a kiss grazed his temple.

“It’s okay, Ron-Ron. It’ll all be okay.”

Everything fell still and Ron was alone once more. He sunk heavier into the couch, scowling at the mural on his wall, trying once more to find the answer he needed. Somewhere buried within was the invisible string tying all the pieces together.  He just had to find it, because once plucked loose, that rope would lead him straight to the man responsible for all this pain and suffering.

Then, Tabby would be right. She would be okay. Able to find peace.

And maybe he would too.

[sweeter-innocence-fics]

Summer Fic Week 2023 - Day 3: Retracing the Steps That We Took

Pairing: Colin Zabel x Reader

Work Summary:

Set in the Even If It All Comes Crashing Down universe.

It's summertime and you're moving house. Daisy gets an ouchie and Rose surprises everyone.

Rating: General audiences

Word Count: 2686

Read on AO3.

Masterlists.

Summer Fics Masterlist.

Taglist: @mrs-kai-anderson @ang3l1te @missryerye @trashmaximoff @josephines-simps-fics @cursedandromedablack @rottenstyx @totta69 @clowwderr @starmansirius @raincoffeeandfandoms

Taglist info.

Notes:

I just can't quit this AU.

Warnings for very minor injury to a child

---

Rose was gurgling in her car seat, trying to put her foot in her mouth. It was a struggle, because of the way she was strapped in. Colin’s mom had thankfully agreed to babysit for the hardest part of the move.

Now it was the final stretch, and the girls were with you. You just had to move the final few boxes, and then you would be in your new home.

Daisy was a little teary-eyed. You were, after all, leaving the only home she’d ever known. It was the home where she’d spent the first five years of her life, where you had fallen in love Colin, where her baby sister had first come home.

Rose, at about eleven months old, didn’t have enough awareness of what was going on to be upset. She stared at her big sister with big brown eyes, not understanding what was wrong.

“Are you excited to see the new house, Daisy? We told you about the garden, right? It’s got a lovely big garden.” You reached back over the back of your seat to stroke her arm.

“I know.” The girls hadn’t seen the house yet, but you’d decorated Daisy’s new bedroom in a way that you were sure she’d love.

Your friend Louise, who was pretty good at painting, had helped you paint a mural onto one of the walls. It was a scene of a jungle, with all her favourite animals featured.

Rose’s room – having separate rooms for your daughters was a big driving force behind moving house – had a mural too, but it was an undersea scene. Colin had taken the girls to the aquarium once, and Rose had sat, transfixed, staring at all the different fish.

“And we’ve got a present waiting for you when we get there,” said Colin, flashing you a grin from the driver’s seat.

“A present?” That had perked Daisy up. “What present?”

“You’ll see. It’s a surprise.”

“A surprised,” said Daisy, quietly. “I like surprisedes.”

You squeezed her hand. “Nearly there, sweetheart.”

The new house was only a ten-minute drive from the old one. It was also closer to Colin’s mom, which was very convenient, since she was always glad to babysit the girls.

As Colin pulled into the driveway, you said, “here we are.”

Daisy stared up at the house. Your old house had only one floor, but this one had two, which was a novel experience for her. The master bedroom also had an ensuite bathroom, which was a big perk for you and Colin.

Colin turned off the ignition and twisted around in his seat. “You wanna have a look around?” Daisy nodded.

You picked up Rose, while Colin took Daisy’s hand. He had a free hand, so he unlocked the front door and pushed it open wide. It opened into the living room. As you tried to walk up the steps, Max cut past you, completely unfazed by the change of scenery. He plopped himself down on the dog bed in the corner, and very quickly fell asleep.

“Rude,” you grumbled affectionately.

“Two sofas,” said Daisy, her eyes wide.

Granted, the sofas weren’t very big, but there were indeed two of them.

Your budget would be a little tight for a while, but Colin had just got a promotion at work, which came with a big bonus, which, along with the proceeds from selling your old house, as well as a gift from his mom, was enough to cover the deposit on this place.

“Come on, Daisy-daze,” said Colin, “Let’s give you the grand tour.”

You followed behind them, much more slowly. Rose kept holding out her hands, trying to touch things, which you let her do (carefully).

She was cradled in your arms as you walked into the kitchen. Colin and Daisy had already moved on. You supposed Daisy wasn’t all that interested in the kitchen. It had a brand new fridge, and in the corner were Max’s food and water bowls.

Rose pointed to the big glass double doors that led the garden, made a questioning noise, but you shook your head.

“Not yet, baby. Daddy’s saving the garden until last.” You hitched her higher up on your hip and headed upstairs. You could hear Daisy talking rapidly in her room – the door of which was marked with a wooden letter ‘D’ that was painted her favourite colour, orange – so you knocked.

“Come in!” came Daisy’s excited reply. You opened the door and she barrelled into your legs, almost knocking you off balance. Daisy was a lot heavier than she used to be, and she didn’t know her own strength.

“Woah there, sweetheart. Be careful, mama’s holding Rose right now.”

“Sorry, mama, I just love it so much.” She pointed at the big painting of the lion. “Daddy said Lulu made it.”

“She did,” you said, shifting Rose onto your other hip. Colin took a step towards you, holding out his arms to take her. Wordlessly, you passed her over. It was a familiar dance by now. Colin lifted your baby daughter up to his face and pressed kisses to both her cheeks.

“Hello my little angel,” he said, “How do you like the new house?” Rose gurgled happily. “Good.” He kissed her forehead.

The room was set up with a bed in the corner with a bright orange bedspread that had pictures of suns on it. Almost all of Daisy’s stuffed animals, barring the couple that she’d slept with at her last night in the old house, were lined up, waiting for her.

There was also an old chest of drawers you’d managed to get secondhand, and a desk that wouldn’t have fit in her old bedroom. It wouldn’t be too long before she started school, so you thought it was a nice to have. Even if she didn’t need it for homework, she could always use it for colouring in.

“Let’s go see Rose’s room, okay?”

You led your little family into the room with the red ‘R’ on the door. Rose’s room was a little smaller, but it had more floorspace, since it lacked the desk. Her new crib had been set up, with a fish-themed mobile above it. There was a chest of drawers too, as well as her playmat and toybox.

Colin set Rose down on the playmat. She immediately started to crawl, the intrepid explorer of her own new bedroom. She had almost made it to the door when you scooped her up.

“Looks like baby Rose wants to see the rest of the house. Shall we?”

Colin took Daisy’s hand again. She was less interested in the bathrooms, or in your bedroom, but as you walked downstairs, you could tell she was getting excited again.

“Are you ready for your present, Dais?” asked Colin.

“Yes, please, daddy.”

“Okay, check this out.”

You were in the kitchen now, and Colin fiddled with the locks on the back door. As soon as it was open, Daisy bounded out into the new garden. You heard her gasp before you had even made it outside yourself.

“Is that… for me?” she asked shyly, pointing at the shiny new bike that was sitting on the back porch. It was dark orange with a white basket and tassels hanging from the handlebars. It had training wheels for now, but Colin was hoping she would graduate from them soon. You were less sure. In your eyes, she was still only a baby.

“That’s your present, sweetheart,” said Colin, ruffling her hair. She spun around and hugged his legs tight.

“Thank you, daddy!” After a moment, she let go of him and sprinted over towards you. “Thank you, mama!”

With Rose on your hip, you couldn’t quite hug Daisy as well as you were hoping, but you managed to wrap one arm around her.

“Can I ride it, please, mama?”

You looked over at Colin, who was grinning at you. This was precisely the reaction that you’d both been hoping for.

“Rose is starting to get fussy,” you said. “I’m gonna put her down for a nap, if you want to help Daisy with her bike.”

You could tell it was something he was excited about. He stepped over to you and wrapped an arm around your waist.

“You’re the best, baby,” he murmured, and then kissed your temple. Rose made a whiny noise, so he kissed her on the top of the head.

You could hear Daisy’s whoops and shrieks of delight as you carried Rose upstairs to her new bedroom.

“How do you like your new room, huh, baby?” you cooed. “And your new crib. It’s a very pretty crib, isn’t it, Rosie?” You set her down.

Although she couldn’t understand what you were saying, she ran her chubby little fingers over the bars, examining her new bed.

“It’s nice and purple, isn’t it, sweetheart? Do you like the purple? Do you like your new mobile too? I know you like fishies.”

Rose had had a blank but curious expression on her face until you said the word ‘fishies’, at which point she looked at you and her little face broke into a huge grin, revealing all four of her teeth. You grinned back at her.

“Look, fishies,” you said, spinning the mobile. Rose reached up, grasping for them, although they were far too high up for her to reach. “Don’t tell your dad I said this, but maybe when you’re older, we’ll get an aquarium, and put lots of lovely fishies in it. You’d like that wouldn’t you, baby? Lots of-”

You were cut off by a shriek from outside. It wasn’t the playful shrieks that you’d been hearing for the past few minutes. It sounded pained.

Before you had a chance to think anything else, you heard loud sobbing.

Daisy. Shit.

Rose was still wriggling about, so you knew that she’d cry if you left her. For a moment, you wondered if you could leave Colin to deal with the Daisy situation, but you knew you couldn’t. Daisy hardly ever cried out loud. If she did, you knew something was very wrong.

You picked up Rose and made your way back down the stairs as fast as you dared while holding your infant daughter.

The back door was still open. You cradled Rose’s head close to your chest as you stepped outside.

Daisy’s bike was in a heap next to the porch. Daisy herself was lying in the grass, covering her face with her arms. Colin was crouched beside her, doing his best to comfort her, but looking very out of his depth.

“Where does it hurt, Daisy? I need you to show me,” he said, and you could tell that his patience was fraying.

“What happened?” you asked, and Colin’s head shot up. His eyes darted from you to Rose and back, and he grimaced.

“It’s my fault,” he said. “I took my eyes off her for two seconds and she slammed right into the edge of the porch.”

Despite your best efforts, Rose kept twisting around to try and see what was going on with her sister. At the sight of Daisy’s sobbing form, Rose began to wriggle and cry too. Hearing this, Daisy looked up at you. Her tearstained face broke your heart.

“Hey baby,” you said, squatting down next to her. Behind you, you heard Colin going back into the house. “What happened? Where does it hurt?”

Sniffling, she held out her hands. Her palms were badly grazed, and bleeding a little bit.

“I’m sorry, sweetie. That looks really painful. Anywhere else?”

“Knees,” she said, quietly.

“Here, show me.”

She shifted so that her legs were right out in front of her. There were fresh holes in her tights right at the knees, which were grazed too, though not as badly as her hands.

“Poor baby girl,” you said, stroking her hair. “You’ve had a bit of a shock, haven’t you?”

Rose had quieted by now, but she was wrigglier than ever. She was reaching for Daisy. You had to keep shifting her position.

“Hey,” came Colin’s voice from above you. He knelt down on Daisy’s other side, holding out a first aid kit. “Daddy’s gonna fix you up, okay sweetheart? I’m so sorry.”

“Not your fault, daddy.”

He didn’t argue, but you could tell he didn’t believe her. You knew how he felt. For the first couple of years, you had tortured yourself over every miniscule bruise and skinned knee, convinced that you were a terrible mother.

“We’re gonna give these cuts a little clean, okay?” said Colin soothingly. “It’ll sting a little bit, but then it’ll feel better. You need to be a brave girl right now, okay?”

Daisy’s lip wobbled, but she nodded.

“Mama and daddy are right here for you, okay?” you said, stroking her hair again.

“And Rose,” she said.

“And Rose.”

Always trusting, she held out her hands to Colin. He poured a bit of antiseptic onto a cotton pad and dabbed at the graze. She winced, but didn’t pull her hands back. After a moment, it was done.

“Good girl.” You wrapped your arm around her shoulders and squeezed gently. “My brave, brave girl. You know, mama kisses have special healing powers, right?”

You kissed her palm very gently. She giggled. “I know, mama.” You kissed her other palm.

“What about daddy kisses?” asked Colin.

“I hear they’re pretty good too,” you said.

He lifted Daisy’s hands up to his face and kissed both palms. She giggled again, harder this time. “The hard part is over now,” he said. “Your knees shouldn’t hurt as much.” You helped Daisy take her tights off so that Colin could clean her up more easily.

After checking that they were, indeed, a write-off, you tossed them in the general direction of the house. They would be going in the bin.

Colin repeated the process with Daisy’s knees. She kept her eyes screwed shut, her little hand in yours, for the whole procedure.

“All done,” said Colin. He leant in to kiss her forehead. “Well done, Daisy.”

“Well done, Daisy,” you agreed.

“Daisy,” said Rose, nodding.

You were stroking Daisy’s hair back from her face, and you froze. You turned to look at Rose. “What did you just say?”

“Daisy.” Rose pointed with her whole hand at her older sister. She was wriggling so much that it was hard to keep a grip on her. She wanted to get to Daisy.

You looked at Colin. He looked just as dumbstruck as you felt.

Daisy’s face split into a grin. “She said my name!”

“She did,” said Colin. He laughed, all trace of anxiety gone.

You let Rose crawl towards Daisy. She planted herself firmly in her sister’s lap. She flailed around for a moment until she managed to grab Daisy’s arm. You all watched as she pressed her mouth against Daisy’s hand in a facsimile of a kiss.

“She’s trying to heal you,” you said. “That’s the secret, actually. Rosie-kisses have the best healing powers of all.” Colin met your eye over Daisy’s head. Your heart had never felt so full.

“Thank you, Rose,” said Daisy. She stroked her baby sister’s hair.

“Why don’t we go inside and have a snack, huh, Daisy?” asked Colin. He stood up and dusted himself off. Daisy glanced over at where her bike lay, crumpled on the ground, and her smile faltered.

She looked as though she was about to start crying again.

“What’s wrong?” you asked. “Does it hurt?” She mumbled something you couldn’t hear. “What was that?”

“I breaked my bike.” Tears were rolling down her face again. “It was a present and I breaked it!”

Colin stood up and went to go investigate the damage.

“It’s not broken, sweetheart, look,” he said, standing it up. “It’s just a bit of mud, you see? It’s just dirty. We can give it a little spray with the hose and it’ll be as good as new.”

“Really?” asked Daisy shyly.

“Really.”

“Come on my love,” he said, picking her up, careful to avoid her grazes. “Let’s get you that snack.” 

---

Notes:

Preview of tomorrow's fic: Set in the 'I'll Paint You Wings'-verse. Going to the carnival with your boyfriend Eddie and your girlfriend Chrissy.

[canonsinthehead]

I'm Watching All of One Piece...

As you may have seen on this blog, We love One Piece. I'm taking the time to watch all of the series especially to understand what the hell is going in the finale saga.

Btw I’m watching most of the show on ONE PACE. Making it easier (to the exception of Dressrosa, WCI, Impel Down, Marineford, fishman island)

I will update this post as I continue to watch the show. I will also share my thoughts about each arc and sagas.

OP SAGA/ARC POSTER ART.

After watching each saga, i took the time to draw a wall/poster art about it (if i'm feeling motivated for it lol).

MARINEFORD.

(Mural made with IKEA Paper roll & uni-ball Power Tank ballpoint pen)

9/10. One of the best arc (along with Impel Down) of OP without a doubt. The suspense, it really goes back to the fundamental conflict between Marine and Pirates. Many OG characters like Crocodile, Buggy, Ivankov and Bon Clay shine during this arc. A true display of strength, loyalty and love.

On the other side, I felt extremely for Garp who had to watch his “nephew” pay for his stupid decisions of Chasing a goofy but extremely dangerous Caribbean pirate (Blackbeard) and LITERALLY commit suicide over a “you daddy so fat joke”. I’ll be crying too. He did what he thought was right with the intent of avoiding the tragic fate of most pirates even if we can absolutely has the right to disagree with his methods.

The pacing is not bad and watched itself pretty well (unlike Dressrosa or WCI) and THE ONE PIECE IS REAL!

2. EGGHEAD

Sadly younger family members sabotaged the wall art I made and it will need a lot of edting to be brought back into a complete wall art piece, please come back when im less mad.

3. WATER SEVEN

(coming soon...)

[boilingpotfrog]

I know I'm a little late for day 3 of this challenge I made for myself, but I been busy with some life stuff and other projects I been planning along the way but that all I take about it now while until the next time I post but lets get start with the fandom we have for today.

🎉

ALSO SPOILERS FOR OF SWEET TOOTH

You finally get a uncle reveal!

So my plan was for this was what if they were animal hybrids? Wo7ld they be all on their own or have some sort of guardian figure like gus has? I decided to go with the guardians root since it would be more sad. So I thought that this will be a great introduction for Maitane, uncle Silvano. Mainly in his prime and glory, Note to be real I is the older brother of Maitane mom side. Mainly a detail is that Maitane was born when her mom was 18 while her uncle was 19. I don't know what age was Ramon when @queeniecore first drew him when he was a kid, but it my base is guide line whenever I spin a fandom and I going to make Ramon and Maitane as kids.

I had a hard time actually deciding what animal hybrid Maitane was going to be since she so fair it a trail and error in good way. I had to rewatch the sweet tooth since hybrids can bewild with how much animal traits can show in a hybrid child but then I remember the scene where Big man finds out that his son was a hybrid

This scene:

And I soon begin to think that it would be cool to see more hybrids was more clear animal features like animal legs so I use him as a guide and made her a goat hybrid, mainly perus national goat

This little silly.

Anyways time to get onto The Reall stars of this show uncle Silvano and Allen! Fuck the kids!

Silvano and Allen are pretty sure a nervous wreck with having to take care of kids, finding information on how to stop the virus from killing them or at least of to somehow cure it in some weird sense, making sure that their kids aren't going to get captured and experimented on and more. It got to the point the Silvano basically convinced Allen that if one of them started showing since of the virus that the other will go on and the one with the virus will be left to die alone. They do hold common ground on losing loved ones due to the virus and wearing something to remember them by. Allen being one of his wife necklaces while Silvano wears one of his sister's old scrunchies and wearing is brother in law (Maitane dad) Dog Tag necklaces.

They both probably met while Allen and Ramon were on the move, and Silvano did see that Allen had a Hybrid child with him just good old Allen and tried to shoot him so didn't meet on the best terms but it was all in the past. Silvano was more more of teaching Maitane of the outside world and got her head deep with pop culture and many other things while Allen took a similar approach like Gus dad did but them moving place to place and stay there just for a couple of days.

The both have kind polar personalities but one thing the will get Silvano to basically get him deep in a conversation is when Allen start kinda talking about his old job or of his life, science is a topic the Silvano basically married at a young age, he's happy married to Botany (The study of plants). He doesn't have the green thumb that his mom has but that doesn't mean that he couldn't just paint murals flowers to walls of random buildings. He still does it but it's small ones.

Allen doesn't really talk about his job much and more of his old life, he does miss how everything used to be from his old house to his wife. Allen had it worse, he's wife is dead and now he has a target on his back due to Ramon being a Hybrid. He wants to keep moving from place to place, is difficult to track down a target if they don't stay at one place.

Allen is basically the brains between him and Silvano, He is the one that runs away with the kids if things go south, He the one that plans how Silvano should attack. Silvano is a smart guy but that he relays on Allen for more smarter information. Allen is the reliable person between him and Silvano when it comes to decisions.

Allen and Silvano bud heads when it comes to certain situations like who the can trust, how much supplies they should use, how long they should stay at one place for, and even on the whole virus situations. Allen is a scientist but he is slowly realizing that if they were looking for a cure for the virus... how will they make it? They are nowhere near a functional lab and even if they were one of them will die from the virus before the even get close to making a milestone.

So they are ticking time bomb, just waiting for one of them to explode first.

[eyeslikewatercoolers]

8 for the general prompts?

I haven't written Roura in a hot minute (besides the sandkeeper fic that is currently being neglected but shhhh) so let go with them! (Also thank you to Kit for teaching my no k-pop knowledge mouth about K-pop groups that Aura would like)

This takes place in the Wedding Planner AU, way before the actual fic starts. so a pre-AU?

8. This will be permanent

"This will be permanent."

"Not really." Robin deadpanned as she looked at her wife. "We can always paint over it if it looks ugly. Or we can get some paint remover from the hardware store down the street."

Aura sighed as she sat on the folding stool, next to the cans of paint. "I wasn't talking about the mural."

Robin gave Aura an empathetic look as she sat on the clean plastic tarp. "You're having some second thoughts about this, huh?" she asked, running her fingers over the bristles of the paintbrush.

The other woman nodded, "This feels a lot more daunting than making bouquets in the garage."

"You're right, this is a lot bigger than what we're used to. But we never planned to stay in the garage until we retired." Robin said, in a gentle tone.

Robin has been ecstatic about getting an official business partner and moving into the building Sasha had found for them. It was going to be great, they would have an entire floor to continue their floral business. She couldn't stop showing her excitement for weeks.

Aura, on the other hand? The change was terrifying. What if it didn't work, and they had to start from the beginning? What if they had a fallout with Sasha and they had to find another place in LA to keep their business?

After a few minutes of silence in the room, Robin stood up again and tied her braided hair into a low ponytail.

"Let's put on some music for us, and make some art together," she said, handing Aura a roller brush. "And then we can talk things through while we paint."

Aura reluctantly took the brush and stood off of the low stool, "I'll try to keep up, you're the better painter out of us."

"Babe, you need to stop underestimating your artistic ability," Robin said as she started playing EXID from the small speaker in the corner of the room.

After a few hours of painting and adding the finishing touches, the plain white wall from before was now filled with a colorful variety of painted flowers. A mix of roses, peonies, and baby's breath, as well as some lilac and dahlias placed throughout.

Over the painted flowers, Robin painted in cursive writing Life is the flower, for which love is the honey. It was a Victor Hugo quote that they used in their own wedding a couple years before.

"I think it looks great. But I think it's missing something." Sasha said as she stopped in to place some furniture in her upstairs office.

"What is it missing?" Aura asked as she was tired and covered in paint.

"It's missing the two of you." the older woman smiled as she placed a brush in black paint and handed it to Aura. "Sign it, all art needs to be signed."

After placing their names and the year in the bottom right corner, the mural looked complete.

Aura felt ready for this change. With Robin by her side, this was turning into what they always dreamed about.

[lokislilkitten]

Melody had always felt like she didn't fit in Auradon Prep. She didn't share the same tendencies as the other kids. But despite feeling like an outsider, Melody never lost her optimistic spirit.

One day, while wandering around, Melody stumbled upon a group of pirates led by Uma, the daughter of Ursula. Melody was immediately drawn to their charisma and charm, but she still kept her distance, afraid of being rejected once again.

As she watched the pirates, a young man caught her eye. He was tall and lean, with long, wavy hair that fell over his shoulders. His clothes were tattered and adorned with various trinkets and symbols of his pirate lifestyle. Melody couldn't help but notice his striking blue eyes and the mischievous grin that played on his lips.

It was Harry Hook, Uma's first mate and notorious bad boy from the Isle. Melody had heard stories about him, how he was dangerous and unpredictable, but she couldn't help the flutter in her heart when he looked her way.

Harry noticed the shy girl watching him from afar, and he couldn't help but be intrigued by her. He sauntered over, his Scottish accent lacing his words.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" Harry asked, leaning in close to Melody.

Melody's heart raced as she tried to form a coherent response. "I, um, I was just passing by." she stammered.

"Is that so?" Harry smirked. "Well, if you're looking for a good time, you've come to the right place."

Melody blushed at his suggestive tone but couldn't help the thrill that ran through her body. For the first time in a long while, she felt like she belonged somewhere.

Melody couldn't stop thinking about Harry after their encounter. She found herself going back to the same spot every day, hoping to run into him again. And sure enough, Harry started showing up more frequently, sometimes with Uma and sometimes by himself.

They had conversations that were filled with playful banter and teasing, and Melody found herself falling for Harry's charm. She tried to keep her guard up, knowing that he was a pirate and could be dangerous, but her heart had other ideas.

One day, Harry surprised Melody by showing up at her door. She was nervous but excited as she let him in, not quite sure what to expect.

"Hey there, lass." Harry said with a grin. "Thought I'd pay you a visit."

Melody blushed at his attention, feeling a mix of emotions she couldn't quite decipher. "Oh, um, okay. Do you want to come in?" she asked.

Harry walked in and looked around, taking in the small but cozy space. "Nice place you got here." he said, admiring the various seashell decorations and colorful murals on the walls.

Melody felt self-conscious but also proud of her home. "Thanks, I like it. It's not much, but it's home." she replied with a small smile.

They spent the afternoon talking and laughing, sharing stories and getting to know each other better. Harry told her about his life on the Isle, about his father, Captain Hook, and how he had always felt like he had to prove himself. Melody listened intently, feeling a sense of empathy for the boy who had grown up with such legacy.

As the sun began to set, Harry stood up, a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "Well, as much as I'd love to stay and chat, I think it's time for some real fun." he said, holding out his hand.

Melody felt her heart race as she took his hand, not quite sure where he was taking her. "Ready for a not-so-ordinary day, lass?" he whispered, his breath hot against her skin.

As they made their way to the Isle, Harry pointed out the different landmarks and shared stories of his adventures as a pirate. Melody found herself listening to him with rapt attention, hanging on to every word that he said.

When they arrived at the Isle, Melody felt a shiver run down her spine. The place was dark, foreboding, and unlike anything she had ever seen before. Harry noticed her hesitation and put his arm around her shoulder, guiding her through the dark alleyways and across the rickety bridges.

As they walked, Harry flirted shamelessly with Melody, teasing her about her shy and isolated behavior. Melody blushed furiously, feeling both embarrassed and exhilarated by Harry's attention.

Finally, they arrived at a deserted part of the Isle, where the only sound was the gentle lapping of the waves against the rocks. Harry turned to Melody and brushed a strand of hair away from her face.

"Ye look beautiful." he said, his blue eyes twinkling.

Melody felt her cheeks grow hot as she tried to find the right words to say. But before she could respond, Harry leaned in and kissed her cheek, his lips warm against her skin.

"Sorry, love. Couldn't resist." he said, his voice low and husky.

Melody was in disbelief about what had happened. Harry Hook, first mate of Uma's crew, had just kissed her on the cheek. She couldn't help but blush furiously as he walked her back to her house.

The next day, Melody couldn't stop thinking about Harry. She went about her day as usual, attending classes and hanging out with Mal and the other VKs. But every time she saw Harry, her heart would skip a beat.

It wasn't long before Harry noticed Melody's shy and timid behavior around him. He found it amusing and endearing at the same time. He decided to make it his mission to make her feel more comfortable around him.

During lunch, Harry made his way over to where Melody was sitting with the other VKs. He pulled up a chair next to her and flashed her a charming smile.

"Good afternoon, Melody." he said, his accent more pronounced than usual.

"Hi, Harry." she replied softly, feeling her cheeks flush.

Harry noticed her reaction and leaned in closer. "You know, lass, you don't have to be so shy around me. I don't bite... unless you want me to." he teased, winking at her.

Melody couldn't help but giggle at his playful comment. She started to feel more at ease around him, and they spent the rest of their lunch chatting and laughing together.

Despite her initial reservations, Melody found herself falling for Harry Hook. She knew he was a bad boy with a reputation for causing trouble, but she couldn't help but be drawn to him.

Little did she know that their newfound romance would be put to the test sooner than she thought.

It was a warm summer evening, and Harry had invited Melody to go for a walk with him along the beach. As they walked along the shore, the sun slowly setting behind them, they talked about their hopes and dreams for the future.

Suddenly, they heard a commotion coming from behind them. They turned around to see a group of angry pirates from the Isle of the Lost, formerly led by Uma, now feeling like they've been left behind.

"What are you doing here, Hook?" Yzla, the daughter of Yzma, demanded, her eyes flashing with anger. She used to hang out with Uma and her crew when they were trapped in the Isle. She and several other people from the crew refused to step in Auradon as they felt betrayed by their caption and have planned to take revenge.

Harry stepped forward, positioning himself between Yzla and Melody. "I'm here with Melody." he said, his voice firm.

Yzla sneered. "Oh, the little princess. How cute. You really think you can protect her from us?"

Melody shrank back, feeling intimidated by the intimidating pirates. She had heard stories about Uma and her crew and knew they weren't to be trifled with.

Harry didn't back down. "I'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe." he said, his voice low.

The pirates advanced towards them, their intentions clear. Harry took Melody's hand and pulled her behind him, ready to defend her.

Suddenly, a figure appeared out of nowhere, blocking Yzla's path. It was Mal, the queen, and she had a fierce look in her eyes.

"Back off, Yzla." Mal warned, her voice steady. "We won't let you hurt anyone here."

She hesitated for a moment before retreating with her crew, grumbling under her breath.

Harry turned to Melody, a worried look on his face. "Are you alright?" he asked, his hand still gripping hers tightly.

Melody nodded, grateful for Harry's protection. She knew that their relationship had just been tested, and it had come out stronger than ever before.

They continued their walk along the beach after the incident, the sun finally setting behind them, Melody knew that she had found something special with Harry Hook.

The next day, Melody found herself sitting in the park, watching as Harry, Jay and the other VKs played a game of Frisbee. She smiled as she watched Harry's carefree expression, his Scottish accent making her heart flutter.

Suddenly, the Frisbee flew towards her, and she instinctively caught it. Harry jogged over to her, a smirk on his face.

"Nice catch, princess." he said, his voice teasing.

Melody blushed, feeling her heart race. She knew that she was falling for Harry, hard and fast.

Later that day, they walked along the beach, explored the town. It seemed like they were always laughing and teasing each other, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.

At night, they were on the beach, watching the stars twinkle above them, Harry turned to Melody, his blue eyes intense.

"Melody, I know I can come off as a bit of a bad boy, but I want you to know that I care about you." he said.

Melody felt a rush of emotions flood over her. She had never felt this way about anyone before.

"I care about you too, Harry." she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Harry leaned in, his lips brushing against hers. Melody closed her eyes, savoring the sensation of his lips on hers. It was like nothing she had ever experienced before, and she knew that this was the start of something incredible.

As they pulled away, Harry smiled down at her, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Come on, princess. Let's go see what other adventures await us."

Melody grinned, feeling excited about the future. She knew that with Harry by her side, anything was possible.