#and i was feeling so tired and ill that i didn't feel like arguing with him so i just went home and hoped for it to settle on its own

[bogglebabbles]

Remembering when I went to the doctor for vertigo and told him it happens most when I look upward and to the left and his response was to not look upward and to the left anymore because he didn't want to refer me to a specialist.

[amazinglyashy]

Hello, can you do LADS men's reaction to MC/reader working too hard, to the point that she looks tired and drained? She also easily gets sick because of stress. And yes, it's based on me; right now, I'm so tired because of work, and I have dance practice almost every day for our departmental performance while I'm sick with the flu. Thank you 💜

Sorry for the delay, but I wanted to do this one justice as best as I could, because oh man did I feel this personally! Not the same at all, but I get heavy duty chronic pain, and I overwork myself often by choice or not, all the time. Feel better anon <3 I hope you enjoy, and make sure to get some Pedialyte or sports drinks, and rest whenever you can. Your health is extremely important!

Love and Deepspace Li's reactions to you being overworked and sick

Zayne -

He's a doctor, you can't even get into the realm of hoping to hide it from him for long, and you'll want to hide it from him if you're actually wanting to be doing whatever it is that's causing you to be overworked to the point of illness.

He will take a single look at you the first time he sees you once you've reached this point- routine examination, stopping by work to see you or vice versa, running something by your place he borrowed, even just you making the mistake of taking an offered ride home from him due to how tired you are. It was a lapse in judgement on your part in trying to keep this from him, but your beyond exhausted brain didn't process it at the time.

But you sure are processing it now that you've been 'kidnapped' and taken back to his place.

He has already filled out a formal doctors note- benefits of being your primary physician- and sent it over to your bosses and managers. There's no arguing.

"Zayne, I'm-" "If you are about to try a weak attempt at convincing me you are alright, I will accept it as you insulting my intelligence as a doctor."

You're in his bed, under his blankets, probably in his pajamas since he wouldn't let you escape home, and drinking the warm drink he made for you to have after taking medicine he had given you to help with your illness. He'll order food that will be good for you to eat as well, and if it's too late for takeout, he'll definitely be cooking for you as well.

Once you're done eating, he'll make sure you're properly cared for by massaging any tired or pained muscles. If that's your entire body, then so be it. Close your eyes, tilt hour head back, and relax even though it hurts in a good way sometimes, because he's not letting up.

Not until you feel better. No matter how long that takes.

Rafayel -

Genuinely, he's offended and hurt that you've overworked yourself this hard and haven't told him. And boy, is he going to let you know it.

He's carrying you gently from wherever he had found you looking so tired- no it does not matter if you were in the middle of working- while actively scolding you in his arms.

"Maybe I should just leave you there all day, come see you in the evening when you get a bad case of amnesia. Would you like that? Huh? No? Well, then stop being stupid."

He doesn't even want to dare set foot in your place right now. He's not in the mood to clean, and he knows if this is the state you're in, your apartment is probably so much worse due to just how busy and exhausted you've been.

He'll go clean it later, but right now he's just grumpy.

There is something about the fresh, oceanside air that helps your headache though- or maybe it's the light linen on his bed that he would have dropped you on had you not looked like the most frail thing he had seen all week.

He's muttering snarky remarks to you, but they're devoid of any bite due to his actions as he speaks them-

Getting you a fluffy robe to change into, putting something simple in the oven while you get comfortable, working special lotion into your muscles, making you lemon and honey tea, making it more humid so any sinus problems clear and help you breathe- he's being vocal through it all, but spoiling you as much as he can nonetheless.

"I don't care if you have a lot to do. Just- ask for help next time. And if I can't help with your work, at least let me help you relax once you're home. I don't mind you staying over either, so that I can make you feel better. Just promise me you'll do better next time, so I can help you before you get this bad."

Xavier -

He probably stopped by your apartment to return something he borrowed, and you made the mistake of answering the door directly after coming home. You were at your peak of tired, and your head had started pounding for some reason... and didn't you feel a bit hot...?

"Oh- You look- You don't look very good. Is everything alright?"

You can't even answer before he's reaching out a hand to hover in front of you, trying to decide between touching you and not, before deciding on the former. He can feel you're just the slightest bit unsteady from working so you're being scooped up in an instant and taken to the bed you had already been planning to go to.

"What have they been having you do...? Never mind. That's- not important right now."

Takes off your shoes and socks, murmurs something about giving you a massage in a bit, before tugging blankets and plushies around you. He'll leave to let you change into pajamas or something more comfortable, and he'll keep himself busy by making you something to eat or clean up your apartment for you.

He tries to cook you something, he really does try. But he definitely has more talent at talking on the phone to the restaurant he's ordering you takeout from. The pan he tried to use does not survive the attempt.

The takeout is good when it comes, though, and it helps that he gave you some medicine prior to help keep it down. Even if you're not currently nauseous, he's pretty worried about your state worsening quickly.

You won't notice until it's too late, but he's already finding out how to transfer some of your workload to himself. By 'some', it's definitely 'all'.

"No, I won't change my mind. Not until you're better. You're so tired, let me do this for you. You can make it up to me by getting me something in the claw machine later."

Sylus -

"I'm just going to go-"

"Go where, kitten?"

You had made the mistake of nearly falling over under the watchful gaze of Mephisto, who had decided it would be absolutely wonderful to relay the information about it and your current state back to Sylus as quickly as he could.

Which is how you had ended up stuck in the hallway the led to your apartment, practically pinned to the wall with Sylus's hands on either side of you.

That is also how you ended up slung over Sylus's shoulder as he unlocked your apartment door for you and went inside, carrying you like it was nothing.

To be fair, you couldn't do much to fight him off this time except utilize a few choice words. You were so beyond exhausted, and starting to feel pretty ill, to boot.

He's got you to bed as soon as the door is shut. You're allowed a hot shower if you promise him a few dozen times that you'll get straight to bed after. He makes sure to promise you that he'll come and make you get in bed if you go against that promise. For once, you don't want to call his bluff.

You're in bed soon enough, with a cool rag pressed on your forehead, some pain medication long since down your throat, and food already on the way courtesy of Luke and Kieran's special henchmen delivery service.

Lying in bed is like heaven on your sore muscles and aching joints, not to mention the pounding headache you've had since starting to feel sick and missing out on sleep. But what somehow feels even better is Sylus's hands on you.

They're just gentle touches, his fingertips ghosting over your skin to leave goosebumps at how nice it feels, and sometimes his whole hands moving slowly and lightly across your body. He'll massage your muscles later, but for now, he's just focused on getting you to sleep, even if just for a little bit until the food gets here.

He knows you need it.

[rafeandonlyrafe]

slap

words: 1k

warnings: established relationship, hitting rafe, rafe having a panic attack, brief self harm from rafe (not really intentional), drunk riding? a dirt bike

“rafe.” you say softly, trying to keep your voice steady. “stop that.”

“i-” rafe takes a gasping breath, his chest rising and falling rapidly. “i can't.”

“you're going to hurt yourself.” your eyes flicker down to his clenching fist, his nails digging into his palm, threatening to break skin. your voice is trembling with concern.

“i can't.” rafe says again, his mouth turning to a frown as he struggles to hold back tears, eyes glistening.

you don't know what to do. you've seen rafe overwhelmed before, but this is a new low, seemingly to lose control over his body. hes always kept it together before, especially for you when you’re around.

you reach out, not sure if it would help, and slap your hand directly across his cheek in a swift, firm hit.

you both fall silent and time seems to stand still as you stare into each other's eyes, both in shock at your action when rafes hands loosen and pull you into him.

“that helped.” he says, tucking his head into the space between your shoulder and neck, pressing a kiss to your skin.

“okay.” you reach around his waist and hold him tightly. “im sorry for hitting you.”

“it's okay.” rafe says, eyes closing, quickly tiring out. 

“let's go to bed, yeah?” it's the middle of the day, but you're ready to retreat into rafes bedroom, especially to get away from ward who didn't let your presence hold him back from shouting at rafe.

“yeah.” rafe grips your hand tightly, needing that connection to you as you head up the stairs.

--

“rafe.” you voice is harsh and controlled, but not a yell. not yet.

“baby-” rafes voice is whiny and slurred from all the shots of alcohol he'd taken with his boys earlier. “what do you want? im going-”

“you're not going anywhere without a helmet on. you already shouldn't be riding drunk.” you place your hands on your hips. 

“im fine.” rafe says, a smile stretching across his cheeks, hoping it will appease you, will make you let this go like you usually do.

“no.” you say harshly. “get off the bike and get a helmet.”

rafes expression hardens as he revs the engine, threatening to take off and join kelce and topper, but you don't care that they already sped away towards the country club without putting any protection on.

rafe opens his mouth to continue to argue, but you cut him off with a slap across his face.

rafe blinks, stunned.

“sorry.” rafe steps off the bike and takes your face in his hands, pressing a kiss to your lips. “ill get a helmet.”

“thank you.” you're still not happy that he's even going, but you know you can't do much to control rafe and you’ve learned to pick your battles.

--

you're sitting on the couch playing on your phone, scrolling aimlessly through social media when you hear the roar of the bike engine returning to tanneyhill.

you frown and check the time, but your mental clock was correct, it's only been around an hour since rafe and his friends left, too early for him to be returning.

curious, you walk outside in time to watch rafe pull into the garage. 

“what are you doing back so early?” you ask as he takes his helmet off. 

“i missed you.” rafe sniffles then pouts, his voice shy and a little sheepish. “i don't like being away from you when im drunk… or ever.”

“aww, whose a softie?” you giggle, wrapping your arms around his shoulder as you melt at his words.

“and i feel bad about being mean to you about me wearing a helmet. i know you were just looking out for me.” rafe ducks his head and presses his lips to your forehead.

“i forgive you.” you wrap your arms around him in a tight hug. “sorry for slapping you.”

rafe shakes his head, dismissing your apology without the need of any further acknowledgement.

“love you so much.” rafe picks you up and carries you inside. you're not worried about him falling or dropping you, he wouldn't allow you to get hurt even in his drunk state.

--

“ahhh!” you scream out, hand reaching out and hitting the figure in the face that appeared from the darkness. you reach up again with your other hand to deliver another slap when a hand emerges from the shadow and grabs your wrist.

“baby, it's me.”

rafes voice cuts through the darkness as you freeze before your body deflates.

“oh shit.” knees buckling as rafe grabs you and pulls you against his chest. “i thought you were an intruder.”

“an intruder?” rafe laughs. “well, that was a good hit. i think you might leave a mark.”

“a mark?” you squeal, pulling away from his chest and looking at his cheek, that does in fact have a red mark in the distinct shape of your fingers.

rafe just laughs, his arms wrapping around you more securely. “dont worry about it.” he says, kissing the top of your head. “its kind of hot that you’re so tough.”

--

“god, shes hot.” rafes voice is loud, almost obnoxious, as he pipes up for the first time since entering the room and plopping down on the couch next to you.

“what the fuck?” you question, dropping your phone as your eyes narrow at him.

“nothing.” theres a smile on rafes face that tells you there's something more as you try to snatch his phone from his hand, but he holds it just out of your reach.

“give it!” you squeal as rafe laughs at your frustration, not fighting too hard before letting you see the screen, opened up to his photo album filled with pictures of you, candid shots, selfies you’ve sent him, and moments he’d captured of you without your knowledge.

“oh my god, you piece of shit!” you join in on rafes laughter, falling into his lap. 

you reach your hand up and playfully hit rafes cheek. “i hate you.” you say, though the affection in your voice betrays your words.

“no you don't.” rafe counters, pressing his lips against yours. “you love me.”

“yeah.” you admit, kissing him back. “i love you.”

sfw tags: @winterrrnight @bejeweledreverie @ladyinbl00d @ethanthequeefqueen @drewsephrry @wearemadeofstardust0

[riki-riks-chick]

umm haha can you like not mention my username ill be 🍋 anon morning wood drabble ot7 suggestive

I'm doing it in like a simple way so my brain doesn't die of over working. it's also ot6 🫡

Heeseung

"Baby..? Are you awake?" You wake up to him and whispering in your ear, and you're immediately shrugging him off in an attempt to go back to sleep, already knowing what he wants. Heeseung is persistent though. "Please... I promise we can only do it once this time.." You shake your head, burying it into the pillow. "Heeseung, this has been every morning this week.." You whine and he leans down to press kisses to the exposed skin of your shoulders, his hand gripping your hip. "Not true baby.. We didn't do it on Tuesday." You're shrugging him off, sitting up with an annoyed expression. "That doesn't make it any be-" You're cut off by him kissing you, pinning you down, and cupping your breasts through your bra. Maybe one more early morning wouldn't kill you.

Jay

"Jay... Jay, wake up." You turn your head, glancing over your shoulder as Jay stirs, tightening his arms around your waist. "Five more minutes..." He whines as you sigh. "It's hard to keep sleeping when you're pressing against me." You groan, trying to pull away from him. He nuzzles into your neck, his arms growing even tighter around your waist. "Jay.. Please." He groans, pulling away from you. "Unless you're gonna help me, please let me sleep." You chuckle at the hint of frustration in his tone, trailing your index finger over his bulge. "Who said I wasn't willing to help you..."

Jake

"Jake, baby.. Please.." You sit up, your voice hoarse as you glance at your boyfriend. "Baby, please help me..." He pouts, pulling you into his side as you sigh. "This is why I say no to cuddling at night. You always wake up hard." You argue as Jake pouts. "Baby, it's not my fault.. You were rubbing against me all night." He groans, pulling you on top of him. His hands grip your hips as you sigh. "You're really pinning the blame on me?..." You ask as he nods. "Hoping you'll take responsibility for it.." He smiles as you chuckle, giving him a kiss. "You're lucky you're cute."

Sunghoon

"Babe.... Princess, wake up." You shrug moving away from Sunghoon as he pulls you closer, wrapping his arms around your waist. He then kisses your forehead, your nose, your cheek, and then your neck, littering open-mouthed kisses all over your skin. You sigh, pushing him away by his chest. "Sunghoon, please.. I'm tired." He takes your hand from his chest, trailing it downwards and placing it on the tent in his pants. "Please, my love... I'll make you breakfast in bed..." He tries to bargain and you sigh, pouting. "You'll make me french toast?" You asks as he nods. "With bacon and eggs too.." He says, holding up his pinky as you roll your eyes, completing the pinky promise. "Fine.."

Sunoo

You shift as you feel movement beside you, sitting up as you glance at Sunoo, who's sleeping peacefully, his hips rutting softly against the mattress beneath him. You chuckle, finding it amusing, as you pat his back. "Sunoo... Wake up.." He hums, rolling onto his back as you climb on top of him, planting kisses on his face until he wakes up. "You need me to take care of your problem, baby?.." You ask, cupping his cheeks as he nods. "Yes, please..." He pouts, poking his lips out in a please for a kiss which you gladly give him. "Since you asked so nicely..."

Jungwon

"Y/n.. Cutie, are you sleeping?" Jungwon asks as you roll over, turning off your phone. "Goodmorning..." You hum, rubbing your eyes as Jungwon slides his hand under your shirt, gripping your waist beneath the fabric. "What are you doing?" You ask as he smiles, staring over at you with a pleading look in his eyes. "I need you..." He pouts as you sigh. "It's so early.. Can't you get off by yourself..?" You ask as he shakes his head. "That's not an option when I have my pretty girl from next to me." You roll your eyes. "Stop trying to suck up to me." You say as he shrugs. "I was hoping you'd suck me off if I did.."

[olsenmyolsen]

Hey sorry you are ill at the moment, you mentioned requests being open. So if I may

May a request an wanda one shot where both wanda and yn are crushing in each other but both too scared to admit. Pietro is yns friend and takes her out to crazy golf or something to unwind (nothing alcohol related please) . But maybe pietro causes trouble and they end up arrested. Which stresses yn out as she's never been arrested and is scared and paranoid.

Anyway she uses her call to call wanda (much to pietro's displeasure) and she storms in to get them out (def calming down yn and giving her a hug when she sees her in jail and after she gets her out) . (Wanda def makes sure any record of yn getting arrested is gone with her powers) .

Wanda being utterly pissed at pietro, maybe they argue in sokovian and maybe pietro says something (def about them being idiots who won't admit they like each other or something along the lines) and he speeds away and it ends with Wanda being the one to confess and ask yn out.

I know this might seem a bit much or too detailed but let me know what you think :)

You Have The Right To Remain Silent

(I feel like I might start writing Pietro a lot more now)

master list . maroon master list . dark master list

Post AoU (Female Reader X Wanda Maximoff)

Summary: Pietro takes you out and tries to get you to admit your feelings about Wanda. Simple, right? So why are you making a phone call from a county jail?

Word Count: 3.2K

Content: Pietro is a great friend/menace, Emo Wanda, Cuteness

To say Wanda Maximoff was mad would be THE understatement.

Not only was she mad, she was pissed, enraged, furious, embarrassed, she was- you get it. So, as Wanda grabs her red jacket and storms down to the Avenger's garage, she can't help but replay the most recent call with You repeatedly.

In fairness, you did only have one phone call, at least, according to the cop who arrested Wanda's brother and You.

But let's back it up a bit to this morning when all Pietro wanted to do was take you out. Have a bit of one-on-one hang-out time. You were, after all, his most recent best friend since moving to America and joining the Avengers.

"Y/n, come on, get up!" You were slowly but abruptly being shaken away by your silver-haired friend. You lift your tired arms and push him away. "No, I love sleep!" You cry out why, doing your best to keep your eyes shut, but within a flash, Pietro has lifted your window blinds, making the early morning sunshine right onto you.

Damn, Stark, for putting you in the east corner of the compound.

So, with a loud groan into your pillow, you blink open your eyes to see Pietro smugly smiling. "Hi!" He waved.

What a menace.

You closed your eyes and sighed loudly. But sure enough, about twenty minutes later, you were dressed comfortably in your favorite pair of jeans and a light hoodie. It was about halfway through autumn, so the choice was perfect for the season and for whatever outdoor activity Pietro wanted to drag you to.

As of late, he was known to pull something like this. About two weeks ago, it was Basketball. A month prior, it was Pickleball.

Etc etc.

And you weren't sure if it was meant to happen or not, but the conversations always seemed to steer back to fellow teammate Pietro's sister and your crush, Wanda Maximoff.

And not that Pietro knew. At least you didn't think so...

(He knew.)

Regardless, you stumbled into the Avenger's kitchen and- "Hey, Y/n!" You jolt your head up from the floor of the compound at the accented angelic voice of Wanda. She's standing by the stove making pancakes. She's dressed in her usual wear of black skirts and cardigans. Necklaces hanging from her. Wanda's nails have some of the black polish removed, and her fingers are still wearing rings. Some of the last things from first home...

Sokovia.

Wanda keeps her eyes on you as you smile to see her. Hoping your cheeks don't light up. "Hi, Wanda!" You finally manage to say. She loves the sound of your voice, too. Even when it's all wavered. "You heading out?" Wanda says as you walk further into the kitchen. Heading to the fridge because you're on autopilot.

You look down at your outfit of choice. "Uh yeah, Pietro wanted to do something." Wanda makes anah noise and turns back to the pancakes. "You like blueberries, right?"

Wanda knew you did.

"Yeah." You reply after retrieving a glass of orange juice, making Wanda nod and not so subtly begin making a blueberry pancake. You turned your head away at the feeling of the warmth in your cheeks and sat at the kitchen island.

You felt the need to say something to Wanda. Ask her how she slept. Or what she was doing today. Or if she watched any of the old sitcoms you used to watch after school. But nothing was firing in your brain as you watched her glide through the kitchen.

You were starting to wonder if she didn't have her abilities, what would Wanda do? Chef? Ballet? Actress?

Wanda laughed while flipping over your two pancakes onto a plate. The noise made you raise your eyebrows and look at her with an acute smile. "What's funny?" You asked, but Wanda shook her head. "Just thought about something." She meekly replied with her green eyes, making her red cheeks and freckles pop slightly more. "Here." She then said as she laid down the food in front of you. Her powers setting down the syrup next to you.

You smiled and felt your heart flutter. "You get first dibs." Wanda smiled back. "Wow... Wanda, this looks-"

"Ah, there you are!!" Pietro rushed into the kitchen, making the two of you startle, and dropped your silverware onto the plate. "Jesus!" You yell out while Wanda takes the dish towel next to her and throws it at her brother. "Stop doing that!" She yells, making Pietro roll his eyes. "But you always say that!" Wanda lets out a large sigh and glares at him before turning back to the stove to keep working on breakfast for the rest of the team.

Effectively ending your moment with Wanda.

You pick back up your fork and knife and begin to dig into your specially made pancakes while Pietro tries to apologize to his sister to get her to make him chocolate pancakes, but she refuses and then says: "Only Y/n gets the special treatment!"

You froze, but Pietro smirked and looked at Wanda before communicating with her in Sokovian. A language you wish you could understand. Maybe in time... However, what Pietro said ended up with her yelling something back while trying her best to hide her smile.

Pietro called her out, and thus, a chocolate pancake was laid in front of him minutes later. But leaving food around him doesn't last long, so as much as you wanted to talk to Wanda some more and be terrible at flirting, you were being whisked away for a day with Pietro.

Not before waving bye to Wanda.

"Axe throwing?" You asked Pietro as the two of you walked up to the building after a 30-minute drive. "Not just axe throwing!" You tilted your head and followed the speedster inside.

Pietro took you to the newest evolution in the craze. Inside was your typical kind of place for this activity, but instead of standard sections, this place also had a glow-in-the-dark area and a gamified version where you had to play/win specific challenges for tickets for prizes.

You looked at your friend and saw his smile on his face.

Sometimes, you remind yourself that this is still the same person who lost everything months ago. And here he is with a wide smile.

Also, how in the world did he find out they opened at 10 am was beyond you. It just didn't make sense... But it's a tale, so after ordering some water and snacks, the first axe hit the board.

"No, fair, you're super strong!" Pietro was already whining.  You playfully rolled your eyes and grabbed your axe. "Yes, but that and my impenetrable skin don't make me super accurate. I'm not Hawkeye." You say with a little laugh. "Ah, right, the old man," Pietro replied, lifting the axe above his head. You smiled. "I'm so telling him you said that." You say as Pietro's axe lands slightly to the right of the bullseye.

Pietro retrieves it and laughs back before asking you about Natasha Romanoff, aka The Black Widow.

You tried your best to talk him out of asking her, but it didn't work. However, when he got knocked across the gym three weeks from now, you were there to say, "I told you so."

"Bullseye!" You cheered as your axe landed dead center. Pietro watched you walk to grab it with a smile before he did his best to shift the conversation to the real reason for today's adventure. "So Y/n..."

"So Pietro..." You said, copying his tone as he threw his axe. "You and my sister seemed to be getting along..." You tilted your head slightly. "Yeah... so?"

Pietro's axe landed a little below the target. Pietro looked at it before turning to you. "Pietro..." You said as the man stared at you. "Y/n, come on." Pietro grabbed his axe. "Just admit you like my sestra!"

"Pietro!" You raised your voice at his accurate assumption. "She likes you too!" He kept his voice level with yours. "You're too dumb or chicken to do anything about it!" You shook your head. "No. We're just friends!"

Yes, you had a crush on Wanda. Because, of course, you did, but when it came to admitting it to Pietro, you denied, denied, denied.

One, because you'd never hear the end of it.

Two, you didn't want to jeopardize anything between you and Wanda.

And three, could Wanda actually like you back??

"She made you special pancakes! You heard her. No one, but you gets them!" Pietro argues loudly, making one of the few other people in the establishment look over towards the two of you. "Pietro, shh." You say while gesturing with your head to the person, but Pietro isn't bothered by that. Too busy asking you about your crush. "That means something!"

"No, it means nothing." You argue back hoping this would be like any other time Pietro brought up this conversation and have it end reasonably quick. So, as you badly threw your axe at the wall, Pietro stood up.

"So if you think everything between you and my sestra means nothing then that must mean you don't like her."

You picked your axe from the floor. "What?" You replied, standing in the narrow space. "I didn't say that!" A customer looks over at you two. So does an employee. "So there is something?!" Pietro grins as he lets go of the axe right next to you, as you haven't gotten out of the way yet. "Pietro!" You scream even if the axe wouldn't have done anything to your body, thanks to your abilities.

An employee calls a manager over to them to watch you and Pietro.

"Just admit it: you like my sestra!" You huff, but before you can say anything else, he uses his super speed to grab the axe from the board and swing it back at you again. "Say it!" He calls out as it feels like you got a new haircut.

Luckily, nothing was trimmed.

"Yes, I like Wanda-" Pietro goes to interrupt you, but you cut him. "As a friend!" Pietro rolls his eyes and goes to use his powers again, but a man in a blue polo shirt stops him as Pietro raises his axe.

The two of you turn your eyes to the stranger—a manager.

"Hey! You are breaking some rules here and causing a disturbance. Why don't you two come with me!" Pietro looks at you and returns his eyes to the man with the name tag, 'Micheal.' "No, we're cool. It's okay."

You sigh, closing your eyes, knowing that's NOT what you're supposed to say. You move up.

"Hey. I'm sorry, my friend here is a little... much, but I-" You get cut off by the manager. "Doesn't matter what you're about to say. You two have been loud and reckless. Not to mention you're mutants." The man adds that last part in like you wouldn't heat him.

Pietro looks from you to the man. "Excuse me?"

"Pietro, let's just leave." You say, moving your eyes to Wanda's brother. But Pietro tightens his jaw. He brought you to this place to have fun and to finally have you admit that you are head over heels for Wanda. He also wants to spend time with his friend. He's tired of people telling him what to do or not do.

So, in a lapse of better judgment, Pietro uses his super speed and, thus leading to the two of you pinned to a cop car while Peitro wears Micheals's name tag as paramedics look over the man in the polo with a bloody nose. "I didn't push him that hard," Pietro comments, making you huff as a cop tightens the cuffs on the two of you.

"You both have the right to remain silent..." The mustache'd cop behind you starts going over your Miranda Rights as you close your eyes and let the world fall to a hum around you.

What the fuck were you going to tell Wanda...

The cell door at the sheriff's station closes behind you as you and Pietro walk inside. "I still think we could've gotten away. I'm super fast." You throw your arms up and let them fall against your side. "And then what Pietro? My car would still be at the place, and they'd track the registration to the compound. Could you imagine two cops knocking on the Avengers doors!?"

Pietro noticed your voice. You're frustrated and exhausted. Uneasy as your anxiety courses through you.

Pietro looks away.

The last time you were arrested was before you joined the Avengers... Those memories are seconds away from coming back.

After a few quiet moments, you take a seat on the cold bench next to your friend. Pietro hears the deep exhale come out of you. "I'm sorry." He calmly speaks up, making you look at him. "I shouldn't have engaged or acted out." You nod. "Why did you?" You ask. Pietro shrugs but looks at you. "I was more than okay leaving, but then he said... that word a-and it made me think back to Hydra. You know they weren't exactly known for being the nicest people..." He jokes with a slight smile but is still solum with his words. "Plus, I guess. I guess I really just wanted today to be the day." Pietro looks at you, and you know what he means.

"I do like her. A lot." You speak up. Pietro smiles. "Oh god, what are we going to tell her?" You say as you lean back against the grey wall.

"Tell her?" Pietro says, making you glance at him. "We can't do that." You widen your eyes. "Are you kidding me? That's exactly what we're going to do!" You say back.

"She'll kill me!" Pietro jokingly looks scared.

"Pietro, you're lucky I haven't killed you! Besides, we're calling Wanda. I'm not about to have Cap come down here and treat us like we're children. I am not about to have Natasha scold us and make our weekly gym sessions increase. I'm calling Wanda!"

Pietro knew this was the only option as everyone else was too busy or off-world. But he still argued and pleaded. But he relented when he saw you start to shake from your nerves.

Ten minutes later, you walked back into the cell, and an officer closed it behind you.

"I think she's mad." You said. Knowing his twin, Pietro knew that if you thought Wanda was mad. Gear up because she was past mad. Pietro sighed and stood up, needing to stretch his legs. "Did you tell her it was my fault like I asked?" You nodded. "But then Wanda asked me how come I was arrested as well. I froze. I told her I pushed the man back when he tried to push me but couldn't." Pietro laughed through his nose. "Your super strength and impenetrable skin will always amaze me."

"Yeah..." You sigh. "Too bad it won't make me Wanda like me again after this." Pietro watches you sit on the bench. "I'll talk to her," Pietro affirms you, but you don't know if you want him to talk to the witch or not. But before you can say anything, you hear muffled, loud yelling coming from outside the double doors down the hall. "How did she get here already?!" Pietro asks because it makes no sense. You shake your head and shrug before the doors down the hall open, and Wanda's black boots hit the white tile floor with force.

The officer with Wanda opens the cell door without a word to either of you. When you look at his eyes, you see how red they are.

Pietro looks to you and gulps.

"Sestra-" Wanda raises her hand to Pietro. "I don't want to hear it. Let's go." Wanda starts to walk away, and as much as you shouldn't, you do, in fact, look up and down her backside. Your crush on her and her demeanor towards you in this moment makes something click inside you. Fuck.

As the three of you exit into the station lobby, you realize that everyone in the building is under Wanda's control. You glance at a monitor and watch as a red-eyed officer deletes your and Pietro's files. You look back to Wanda, who pierces you with her green eyes. A smile wants to break out on her lips, but she remains stern as she gestures for you two to pick up your belongings at the front desk. You nod, and you and Pietro grab your things—one of them including your car keys for your impounded car.

"It's out front," Wanda speaks up before you send her a gracious smile. She sees it but doesn't return one as she leads the three of you outside. Her red car is parked next to your older vehicle.

"Pietro in the car," Wanda commands her brother, who does so without wanting to be under her power. As she stops in front of her driver's side door, Wanda looks to you. She opens it before closing it and walking over to you. Her green eyes looking at yours, getting softer by the second. She then surprises you with the most Wanda thing ever. She wraps her arms tightly around you and hugs you. "It's okay." She whispers to you as you feel yourself melt into the embrace. "Wanda, I'm sorry." You feel the need to say back, but Wanda shakes her head and pulls back. "Y/n, the only thing you need to be sorry for is your choice of friends." You can't help but laugh as you wipe the corner of your eye. The last thing you needed to do was cry.

Wanda moves her hands and fingers covered in rings up and down your arms to comfort you. "Pietros has already taken the blame again and again," Wanda says, confusing you until she points to her head. "Right." You nod. Wanda smiles. "A lot of yelling in Sokovian." Wanda drags her hands down and off of your arm. You already feel the loss of her touch, but look at her eyes as they find yours. "Do you think we could talk later? After we get back to the compound?" She asks, and you feel your throat grow tighter. "Not about this!" Wanda quickly corrects your thoughts as she points to the sheriff's office. "It's just Pietro called me an idiot, and it has something to do with you."

"With me?" You find yourself questioning even though you one hundred percent know what she's getting at it. Wanda nods as a shy blush appears on her face. Wanda looks back to the car before turning to look at you. She bites her lip. "I like you. A lot." Wanda confesses after a brief moment.

You can't help but smile wide.

You nod. "I like you a lot too, Wanda." Wanda feels her heart grow warm as she hears your words. "So yeah, we can talk later?" She says, making you chuckle. "I'll see you at the compound." You reply back.

Who would've thought that to get your crush, all you had to do was get arrested?

dividers by @/benkeibear

[kiyo-cant-write]

leona kingscholar arguing w/ a male s/o ✧･ﾟ

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I felt like we needed something on this blog with Leona <3

If you see typos, pretend they're not there. I'm writing this instead of letting the mental illness get me (because the admin's having depression atm!). How do I feel better? Ruin Leona's life xD

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Summary: [Name] is the s/o of Leona Kingscholar, and what an interesting time that is. Leona is by no means perfect, but he loves [Name], truly. Sometimes, though... The two argue. And it can get heated.

TW/CW: Hurt/No Comfort, Angst

Notes: established relationship, he/him pronouns for the reader, the reader could be cis or trans, the reader is described to be tall/muscular and human with no specified class year, the reader is not explicitly Yuu/Prefect but could be

Guest Stars: Ruggie Bucchi (mentioned, discussed)

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Leona Kingscholar

Leona is not the ideal lover by any means. He needs time.

He is abrasive, rough, and opinionated. He is so stubborn that he will hold a grudge against his partner in a fight.

With a female/femme enby partner, this might be a bit less harsh, but Leona starts out seeing his male s/o as a rival in addition to a partner, sparking arguments early on.

[Name] has to keep up with Leona's moods and his anger.

Leona can be a very tiring partner to have at times.

However, there are advantages to being another man in Leona's life. Leona will not pull punches around his s/o.

He is direct with him and says what is on his mind, even mean things.

However, this can help as it puts things out in the open.

Leona tends to use his s/o like a body pillow (and feel less bad about it as due to their similar size, he isn't crushing them).

Buuut he also thinks that he can push around his male s/o more.

He tends to be rougher with them in every sense of the word.

He isn't even trying to be violent, Leona just doesn't think to control his strength around another guy, thinking he can handle it.

Leona grumbles constantly that his s/o is annoying but he doesn't mean it. He says a lot of things to his s/o that he doesn't mean.

He is still coping with his traditional upbringing as a royal.

Leona is learning how to treat his boyfriend.

[Name] has not yet met Leona's family because Leona refuses to introduce them to anyone. It was by chance that they met Cheka,

Leona doesn't know how his sister-in-law and Falena would react.

Cheka likes [Name] and considers him "Ojitan #2"!!

Leona says he is annoyed about it, maybe he is, but he's also somewhat warmed by the thought of them being close.

It's a little too mushy for him to accept at this point, though.

He never apologizes for his bitchyness with words.

For Leona, it's an act of service or a gift (albeit given a bit carelessly) that serves to be his apology to [Name].

"Ugh. Leona? Leona," [Name] tried before using more energy to increase his volume, "Le-o-na!"

He was out of breath from checking several of Leona's usual spots and not very happy about the current circumstances. And where was Leona meant to be? Class. Where was he now? Not class.

Leona's eyes opened when [Name] called out to him, looking up to see the human's tall frame towering over him from the angle. His eyes said it all, [Name] was annoyed. Great. Leona was about to get an earful from his boyfriend to top it all off.

"Huh? What do you want now, [Nickname]?"

Leona glared at the younger boy from his place amongst the foliage of the botanical garden. Honestly, he just wanted to sleep. He didn't want to be bothered with classes, [Name] be damned.

"Don't [Nickname] me right now. I was checking on you, "[Name] said, a certain level of irritation seeping through, "You have class this period, right?"

He groaned at the mention of class. It was a chore to go. He would much rather be in the garden or somewhere else, sleeping away from all the noise. But few let him enjoy it between Ruggie, [Name], and one time Jack.

"No, not going. Why don't you get back to your own class, huh?"

Honestly, Leona had a point. Or he would have if it hadn't been a teacher who sent [Name] on a Leona Hunt. Professor Trein was annoyed, and that wasn't good for any student. He had asked [Name] to step out of his class with Professor Crewel to find Leona.

[Name] thought to himself, at that moment, that it was a bit odd the teachers singled him out. Still, it made sense given the lack of a Vice Housewarden for Savanaclaw.

"Leona, you need to focus or you'll repeat another year."

[Name] was sure that Leona didn't want that either. Or did he? It was hard to say. Leona didn't like campus, he said it all the time, but he was also dreading his return to the palace... If he was being truthful, [Name] didn't know what Leona wanted anymore.

It was a bit stressful sometimes, sad at others.

"What are you? Ruggie?" Leona snapped, ears twitching in annoyance as he spoke, "Worry about yourself, [Name]."

Ruggie is a what? How dehumanizing...

But he ignored it. [Name] didn't have the time. Onto the next.

"No, but Ruggie did tell me about the risk of being held back," [Name] admitted awkwardly but with no less frustration than earlier, "Can you just go sleep in class? Your professors are asking me to get you now."

He wasn't even sure what he was arguing anymore. He didn't want to be his boyfriend's parent, but here he was, feeling that way. He knew Leona would just sleep wherever he was, so it wasn't like it was a big ask to send him to a classroom... Was it?

[Name] just wanted Leona to succeed. It was painful to see someone he had grown to love ruining his reputation amongst the faculty and students alike. It wore on [Name]'s mind as it continued.

"You don't get to tell me what to do," Leona said, voice rising slightly, tail flicking in annoyance he now failed to conceal.

"Then who will?" [Name] asked, "Our professors don't even want to deal with you so they sent me to do it!"

When Leona didn't say anything, [Name] took a step closer, testing his limits and ignoring the voice in his head telling him to just back off like he always did and leave it for another day. He didn't want to. he couldn't let Leona do this to himself anymore, not again. Maybe he would listen...

"Leona, I don't know what else to do other than chase after you," [Name] told him, "I want to help, I do... But I can't say anything else. Or do anything either. I'm doing all I can and it's not working."

Leona remained silent.

"What do I do now?" [Name] asked him, voice coming out with just a slight tremble to it as if he was at his breaking point and he was.

"Leave?" Leona said as if it was the obvious answer, "Just go."

"What?" [Name] managed to ask, "What did you... Leona?"

He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"Leave, [Name]. I told you not to get involved with me," Leona told him in a drawl that dripped with indifference, exasperation even.

"Leona, you can't be serious—"

[Name] didn't get to finish his sentence.

"I am, don't test my patience."

[Name] wasn't sure if he was offended or not.

Leona wasn't listening at all. Did he hear any of this?

"Leona, I'm your partner, can't you listen to what I have to say?"

As Leona ignored him,[Name] felt a bit desperate.

How could he fix this? What would it take?

"I said," Leona's voice cut like a blade, "Leave. Now, [Last Name]."

"I..."

But a moment later, [Name] fell silent, fists clenched at his sides for a moment before the tension released. He exhaled. Like that, it was over.

"Fine. Be that way. I was just... trying to help."

Leona's brows furrowed as he looked away, not wanting to see the other man walk away from him. He shouldn't have said that. He should've kept quiet. Why couldn't he just keep his mouth shut? Now they were going to be all upset at him tomorrow. They'd scold him again, act like his mother, just about.

What happened next was somewhat Leona's own fault in the end. And there he was wallowing in self-pity, refusing to acknowledge the truth of the matter even as he felt the ramifications of his actions.

It was [Name]'s own fault, Leona would remind himself the next day when [Name] didn't meet him for lunch and Ruggie gave him the most bewildered look he had seen on the hyena's face in a while. He should have known not to get involved in Leona's business. Stupid.

It's his fault, Leona would repeat for the next couple of days, refusing to comment when Ruggie asked him again, "Where's [Name]?" Leona didn't care, or he wished he didn't. Those thoughts pounding in his skull didn't mean anything. Not a bit.

He was lying to himself. He missed [Name]. Leona wanted to be able to listen to him talk about things, ask him for little favors, and keep him close. Leona wanted to feel the closeness that they had had...

But he wasn't ready to be wrong.

Would he ever be ready to see past his own ego?

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Imagine the rest for yourself~

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Thank you for reading! Likes and reblogs are appreciated! Do NOT repost my writing/headcanons as your own >:c Check the top of my blog for the inbox status and read the rules before requesting. This is not a twst-only blog! ^^

[ghostieyanyan]

If you don’t mind, which yandere twst boys do you see being most likely to exploit a mentally exhausted prefect to kidnap them?

To clarify, I think it can be argued that the prefect would be absolutely done with NRC after six life-or-death situations due to the overblots on top of being forced to adapt to education system of another world and putting up with the quality of students at NRC. You can’t tell me that a school full of villains would treat the only magicless student well. That just screams prime opportunity to manipulate the prefect into leaving NRC to go somewhere “safer” with one of the boys.

Once again, I’m just curious about your thoughts so don’t feel pressured to respond!

yes yes yes!!!

poor perfect tired to the bone from crowly and the other students. if only there was a knight and shining armor that can come and save them.

No longer an accidentally post! But I mean it did help me finish it lol

~Mental-Exhausted!Mc~

Yan!Riddle x mc

Yan!Leona x mc

Yan!Jamil x mc

Yan!Lilia x mc

Warnings: yandere, kidnapping, drug use (shrink potion), abusive behavior, chains, collar, gag, parenthood (gender-neutual), gritting teeth(?) (I know some people hate it so ill put it in here), not a lot of proof-reads,

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Riddle

yes, riddle was the first overblot (technically) and after his overblot, he felt awful about how he behaved. he was supposed to look after Heartslaybu but he ended up becoming his mother. he hated himself for that.

So now, not only is he taking better care of his dorm, with the help of his dorm. but whenever he sees you, he tries his best to check up on you.

How are you? Do you need help with any school assignments? etc.

they all had sweet intents at first but over time, you started to look drain.. like the life was sucked right out of you. when he asked ace and deuce, they confirmed that you were just tired of all the overblots and being crowley's lap dog. if only he knew how to help you...

at first he asked, trey and cater about how he should help you. they were mature enough to know, right?

cater, being cater, teased him on "having a crush on the perfect" or how he phrased it "oooohhh you are down bad!! lol" whatever that means...

Trey said that maybe ask the perfect if they do need help. but Riddle knows the perfect, they'll say they're fine even when they're not..

riddle felt lost and swallowed his pride as he dials his mother's number.

his mother was furious with the fact that riddle was facing an issue he cant fix himself but what she said about perfect shocked him.

"well.. maybe if this perfect isn't as perfect as their title, maybe they don't belong in Night Raven College!"

with that... the call ended.

now that he wasn't being held by his mother's strings, he saw red...! no one talks about his perfect like that! but.. she has a point.. (which makes him more frustrated) if perfect is miserable here... maybe they shouldn't be attending NRC. but where would they go...?

when he thought about that, he realized he didn't really want to be away from you... you mean too much to him.

so later that day, he requested you to join him in his room, he need to talk to you. you agreed cause why would you be cautious with someone you trust, plus you were too tired to worry about how strange the request was. he gave you tea and asked if you were okay.. you said yes, just stressed with some classes and drank you tea. it tasted... off.

you feel yourself shrinking.. you were shrinking!

you looked at riddle and he was just smiling at you! he picked you up and placed you into a tea pot.

"it'll be okay, my dear. once i graduate and get us a nice home, we'll live our happy lives away from this stress and... toxic poison. But for now, you'll have to behave. i love you, my dear"

~~~~~

Leona

Whether you noticed him or not, Leona watches you run back and forth, from hallway to hallway. Kinda like a mouse running around for food but also staying hidden. Sometimes your running around helps him sleep or just ease him to a zen.

He'd normally wouldn't bat an eye because you're just a lap dog for that crow. But after time has past. He watched as you get slower, more exhausted. like you're pushing to prove something. It ercked him more than he would like. It hit too close to home for him.

When he finally was able to approach you on the matter, you looked like your soul was taken from you. Something within just snapped. He had enough of this. He made the call and suddenly, savanaclaw students came to your side and dragged you to leona's room. If you try to resist, Leona lucky told them to not hurt you too badly. But accidents happens. With their rough handling, you blacked out.

You wake up with a pretty collar around your neck and a chain attach to it? You look around and this is not your ramshackle room. You tried to sit up for a better look and get quick pulled down by the chain collar. It nearly broke your neck! But Leona would say you're being dramatic.

"Quick moving, im trying to sleep.."

You looked and saw Leona. He was laying on your chest and his legs were holding your legs down. He was like a strange weighted blanket. He wasn't in his school uniform but looks like he's in home attire?

"Where are we, leona..?"

You said, scared cause your literally in the hands of a lion that could kill you really quick..

He ears twitched and he looked up at you, bored. But he let out a smirk.

"Were home~"

It took you a minute to process what he said... home? Apparently your confused was evident on your face and leona let out a long sigh. He moved or above you, pining you down.

"Were at Sunset Savanna palace and WE are both gonna be staying here until I can trust you'll be a good obedient herbivore and stay by my side."

You were lost for words and unconsciously started to struggle under leona. Trying to push him off, kicking your legs, he got really annoyed when you accidentally pinched his tail with the bed and your foot.

His retaliation was to slam you down, knocking the wind out of your lungs. As you were gasping for air, he bit you really hard on your throat. You let out a silent scream. You thought you were going to die. This was your last moment of life.

Leona eventually let's go but quickly replacing his fangs with his hand.

"You WILL be obedient... do I make myself clear.."

That wasn't a question.. it was a demand.

~~~~~

Jamil

Jamil hardly noticed you.. PERIOD.

He's busy not only taking care of scarabia but also their housewarden. While his housewarden takes the credit.. he hated it. And the fact his housewarden is so happy go lucky to him too. Makes his blood boil!!

Jamil truly believed that no one would feel his pain, his struggles.. because everyone sees Kalim "success" before anything!

You and Jamil were in the housewarden meeting, well on the outside of the office during the meeting. Jamil had to be there because Kalim and you were there for Crowley...

You both had a quick moment until you asked him hows he been? He lends his head back against the wall and sighs. You laugh at his actions.

"I get that, hehe"

His eye twitched.

"Do you now..?"

"Heh.. I really do. I'm here for Crowley, even tho he's the Headmage. He's like a spoiled brat with responsibility... and HE knowing more about this world, and the work he does for it, more than I do. But nooo... he still gives it to me!"

Jamil stares at you as you vent about your stress and struggles in NRC. He honestly thought that your life is harder than his! How on the seven do you-?

The doors to the office opens and you and jamil both stand up. The other housewardens walked off and kalim ran to jamil, like a parent picking up their kid in kindergarten.

Jamil sighs, seeing kalim's face makes him exhausting... he quickly looks at you, not turning his head to not make it obvious. You were walking into Crowley's office as he hands you a big stack of papers. He practically saw the light in your eyes fade... he HAS to do something.. but what?

A few days past and he just watched you get more exhausted. The more he watches you the more his feelings for you grows. And the more he watched you get degraded the more he wants to set the world on fire for you..

You couldn't hold a conversation as long as you use to now! What is Crowley making you do?

His hand balled into fist. Then he get an idea.. he's always wanted to do this but never thought about it, there will be come changes to the plan with you in it but it could work!

It was in the evening and he stopped by the Ramshackle dorm. With shaking hands he knocked. He can't believe he's gonna do it.

You answer and he quick took out a cloth from his pocket and covered your mouth. Your struggles were pointless with his strength and your muffled screams wasn't going to be heard by anyone since you practically lived in the middle of nowhere. You went limp and he smile grew.

You woke up, chained, gaged, and blindfolded. You didn't know where you were you were so scared.. but you hear foot steps...

"Good morning, my little desert flower~ im sorry I had to contain you like this, I can't risk anymore seeing you. But once we leave the Isle of Sages, ill let you see."

~~~~~

Lilia

Lilia has been watching you since that first day you came here. How much chaos your presence cause, not including Grims presence, was amazing.

He'd be lying if he said he didn't feel something for you after that first day.

Whenever you're doing anything, he watches. And if hes busy, he has his bats watch you instead. They'll report any and everything about you. Including the dark circles appear under your eyes.

To say he was a little pissed... was an understandment. How dare the Crow hurt someone he cared for..

Lilia had half a mind to just get rid of Crowley with a big display of his remand.. but his kids will be scar so probably not.

He'd would think about if for a bit and told himself, why not just take you to live in Briar Valley? You could live there and he'd support you and care for you. You have a caring personal type with how much you take care of those first years.

You'll make a perfect parent...

Lilia stopped by Ramshackle dorm for a "surprised visit". You thought his strange behavior was just lilia being a strange guy? Meanwhile lilia felt like he was young again when he's with you. He felt shy and anxious. He was all fidgety and not making 100% eye contact with you.

Oh by the seven, you stir something within him and its not unwelcomed.

"Lilia? I don't mean to be rude but.. umm... why are you here..? You kinda came at a bad time.. Crowley has some paper work he wants me to fill out for him.."

Lilia fidgeting stop and if you had his super hear, you'd hear him grit his teeth for a moment.

He flips around suddenly and gets a unsettling smile.

"I came because I just remembered a old story and I wanted to tell someone before it slips my mind!"

You stared at Lilia but nodded for him to continue.

"Do you remember when I told you about the story of the Thorn Fairy? And how she put a curse on this cute little human~?"

With every word he spoke, he got closer to you.. you tried to make some distance but it quickly was put to a halt when lilia grabbed your arm.

"L-ilia.. You're hurting me.."

You tried to pull away but nothing can compete with Lilia's strength.

"Did I also tell you that with skill and focus, a powerful mage, can change the effect of such a powerful spell~?"

You're particularly trembling at this point. He got up really close to you and he shows you a small sewing needle.

"I promise, it won't be too long. Just long enough for everyone to stop looking for you~"

{I didn’t give Lilia an art piece because I drew something similar already}

[sailorholly]

Between Us Pt 8

Summary: You and Spencer had a casual relationship. A misunderstanding ruins it all.

Pairing: Spencer Reid × F. BAU Reader

Warnings: Friends with benefits. Pregnancy.

Part 7

See my Masterlist Here

Three Months Later

A white frosted cake decorated with a hand drawn baby on it sat in front of you. Penelope was thrilled to be god mother to your baby, and she wanted to do a gender reveal party. You didn't mind and she was excited, so you and Spencer let her plan this little get together at Rossi's.

You held the knife alongside Spencer, bringing it down to slice the cake. When the piece was cut, you held a plate as he placed the cake on it, revealing pink bread. Penelope squealed "It's a girl!" Spencer hugged you, "I told you." He said, beaming. You had been convinced you were having a boy, but Spencer said he had a feeling the baby was a girl.

"About time we had a girl in the family! She will have all these boys wrapped around her finger in no time." JJ hugged you, nodding towards Jack and Henry running around the yard. Everyone congratulated you while the cake was being served. You were finally starting to show, your baby bump looked huge in your normal clothes. But in the maternity clothes you bought a few days ago, it looked small.

Spencer took you shopping over the weekend when he found you crying because your jeans wouldn't button anymore. He went all out, splurging on a new wardrobe. He even got you two pairs of shoes because your feet were starting to swell especially after work.

Tears welled in your eyes as you watched your coworkers interact with each other. You really loved them like family. Well, everyone except for Ashley who was noticeably absent tonight. You heard a rumor she wasn't happy at the BAU and was looking to transfer. You hoped it was true. She had been nicer to you after her talk with Hotch when she pushed you. You still didn't like her, only tolerating her because you had too.

It was getting late, and you were tired, so you went to take a small nap on Rossi's sofa. You found Penelope sitting there playing on her phone. She told you to lay your head in her lap while she shopped. She was already ordering the baby frilly dresses and matching headbands. You closed your eyes, drifting off pretty quickly.

When you woke up, Morgan was carrying you to the car. You and Spencer had been staying the night with each other for months. You fell back into your old situationship. The pregnancy hormones made you insatiable. Spencer was happy to help you, but you didn't want to get too close to him again. He had hurt you, and you were still offended that he only wanted to be with you because you were pregnant. He tried to argue, but you know that's what it was.

When you got back to Spencer's apartment, you took a quick shower. A new episode of your favorite show was coming on soon. You and Spencer cuddled on the couch watching it. When it was over, he took you to bed, making love to you twice before work the next morning.

A/N: If you have any ideas for a baby name, let me know!! ♥️

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@cindylynn @wheredafandomat @loz-3 @megharat-barnes-reid @kats72 @mochie85 @cakesandtom @spenciesprincess @kimm4710 @tmilover1993 @nomajdetective @cynbx @comboboo @134340ona @wannabewolf @weirdothatwritess @silver-tongue-taken-to-bed @freegardenbanananeck @lover-of-books-and-tea @maybe-not-this @drewsandsebastianswife @lamentis-10 @lizzyk137 @hypotheticallyspeakingwitch @rosylnsworld @amortencjja @ah-blossom @dreamsarebig @khxna @diasnohibng @nommingonfood @sp3ncelle @pleasantwitchgarden @isakslilsmile @lavvylove @creaming4daddy @justdianaz @aubs444 @im-this-girl @xblueriddlex @spencerreidsgf420 @witchsbitchestime @lovelyygirl8 @chonkybonky @prentissesredtanktop @ill-be-okay-soon-enough @ilikw @theoraekenslover @queenshu

[thescarletnargacuga]

I got a new fanfic ideas.

Human Caine realises that he’s gonna be a dad when he found out that his wife (human pomni) is pregnant.

I don’t know if that summery is good but at least I try.

A/N: ngl, I've missed the human au

EXPECTING

A HUMAN AU SHOWTIME ONESHOT

WARNING: morning sickness, doctor visit

~~~

Pomni woke up feeling ill for the third day in a row, it was getting ridiculous. She kneeled before the porcelain throne with her disheveled hair in her hands, spitting up what little was in her empty stomach.

Caine came in with a glass of water and searched the medicine cabinet for some antacids. "You need to see urgent care today." He said with a heavy gravel in his voice from just waking up.

Pomni sighed and sat on the toilet lid as she sipped the water. "It's fine...it goes away later."

"It didn't go away yesterday." Caine shook out a few tablets and gave them to Pomni. "You could barely keep water down. You're going to the doctor. I'm not taking no for an answer."

Pomni had no energy to argue. She hadn't eaten in over a day and felt like she got no rest despite sleeping for over 10 hours. The antacids were at least helping her sore throat from the daily vomiting. She sipped more water as Bubble nudged the door open. The blue staffy sat right between her legs and pressed his nose to Pomni's abdomen.

Pomni pet Bubble, giving him the attention she figured he was begging for. "I think someone wants to come with us."

Caine spat out a glob of suds from brushing his teeth. "Bet he thinks we'll stop for a pup cup."

"Is that what you want, bud? You wanna pup cup?" Pomni rubbed Bubble ears.

Bubble's tail wagged and he pressed his face further against Pomni's abdomen.

Pomni hugged her affectionate fur baby, feeling better already. "We can stop for something on the way. Just because I'm not eating right now, doesn't mean you shouldn't." She looked at Caine.

Caine rinsed his mouth and trimmed a few wayward hairs in his beard. "I can't eat knowing you're this severely sick. The anxiety is killing my appetite. If you're ready, get dressed. The clinic should be open by now."

"Sir, yes sir." Pomni said light-heartedly. The lack of food made the nausea linger, but she powered through it. As lethargic as she felt, she wasn't dressing any better than a t-shirt and sweatpants. "I'll feed Bubble before we leave." She announced and went downstairs.

"Okay, I'll be down in a minute." Caine responded.

Pomni thought the simple task of feeding Bubble would be enough to keep her mind off the looming threat of another round of dry heaving, but the moment she opened the can of wet dog food she had to run to the sink. The water she just drank came right back up.

Caine could hear her all the way upstairs. He came down quickly, going to her to try and help, though there wasn't much he could do other than hold her hair back. "What happened?"

"The smell-" She dry heaved again. The dog food had never bothered her before, but now the very thought of it sickened her.

Caine looked at the half open can and Bubble standing up against the counter sniffing at it. "I'll take care of it. Try to drink water again once this passes. I'm starting to get worried about how hydrated you are."

With Bubble fed, the couple finally managed to pull themselves together to get going. Bubble happily jumped in for the car ride. Both tired and worried, no music was played on the ride to the clinic. Pomni clutched her water bottle, sipping from it.

Upon arriving, Pomni pet Bubble. "Stay here and keep him company. It's early enough that this shouldn't take long." She gave Caine a kiss and went inside.

Caine sighed and started scrolling through his phone to distract himself from his worry. "She'll be fine...stupid stomach bug." Bubble nuzzled his shoulder and he pet Bubble's head.

~

The waiting room was empty so Pomni was seen right away. After a quick preliminary check, she sat in an examination room. Eagerly awaiting the doctor. The nausea had thankfully subsided so she didn't feel like she was about to dry heave into the doctor's trash can. Being one of the first patients of the day, she didn't have to wait long.

A tall, heavy set man with a cheerful demeanor in a white lab coat entered. "Hello, I'm Dr. Kaufmo. How are you doing today?"

"Stomach hurts. I keep throwing up."

"Oh, dear. How long has that been going on? Have you been able to keep anything down?"

"Uh...since Monday, so three days? I couldn't eat at all yesterday. Haven't eaten yet today. It's just this persistent nausea that comes and goes throughout the day."

"I see. Have you been taking any medications? Have bowel movements been normal?" The doctor prepared to write down her answers.

"No and yes." Pomni answered tiredly.

"Is there a possibility you could be pregnant?" Dr. Kaufmo looked up from his clipboard.

That question hit Pomni like a truck. She hadn't even considered it. "Uh, well, I use protection."

"But you are sexually active?"

"...yes." Pomni answered with some trepidation. Like her having sex with her husband was supposed to be some kind of secret.

"Then let's go ahead and do a pregnancy test, just to get it out of the way. Have you had enough to drink to provide a urine sample?"

"I think so."

"Great. I'll have a nurse come get you when we're ready, shouldn't be a minute." He smiled at Pomni and put his pen away in his coat pocket before leaving the room.

Pomni covered her face with her hands, her cheeks burning. "Pregnant!?" She whispered harshly behind her hands. "We're not- I'm not- oh no..." She and Caine hadn't been planning for a child, not yet. They weren't ready. They could barely keep up with Bubble some days. They were both working to keep themselves financially afloat.

All the what ifs made her feel sick again.

The test was quick and easy, she got her answer in all of five minutes. "Congratulations, Mrs. Eden, you're pregnant." Dr. Kaufmo cheerily announced. "Now, since we now know what you've been experiencing has likely been morning sickness, I can prescribe you something for that. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and do try to eat when the medicine takes effect. I can also provide you with a referral to an OB-GYN if you need one. Is there anything else I can do for you?"

Pomni could only breathe and shook her head. Being pregnant wasn't her worst fear or anything, but the unknown of what to do going forward was not helping her nausea. "No..I have a doctor...for that."

Dr. Kaufmo could see Pomni's fear and gave her a sympathetic smile. "Alright. I hope you have a good day, and good luck. Come back to see me if the nausea gets worse or persists through the medicine. I'll see you right away."

"...thank you, doctor."

"My pleasure. See the clerk on your way out about which pharmacy to send the prescription to."

"Yeah." Pomni made her way out to Caine and sat silently in the passenger seat. Bubble licked at her face excitedly.

Caine gently pushed Bubble back. "Down, boy. So, what did they say?"

"I'm pregnant." Pomni said it like it was a revelation to herself as much as it was to Caine.

Caine blinked, unsure if he heard her right. "What?"

"I'm pregnant." She repeated, meeting his gaze.

"With a baby?"

"Yeah."

"Really?"

"Yeah."

"Oh my God."

"Yeah."

Once the shock wore off, Caine grinned ear to ear. "That's wonderful news! We're gonna have a baby!" He took Pomni's hand and kissed it. "A baby, Pomni. You're gonna be a mom."

"You're gonna be a dad." Pomni tried to share his enthusiasm, but her energy levels wouldn't allow it.

"I'm-...I'm going to be a dad." He said slower, like he couldn't believe the words coming out of his mouth. "How did that happen?"

That got a little laugh out of Pomni. "Guess, genius."

"Okay, I know HOW. Believe me, I know how." He waggled his eyebrows at her. "But, I mean, wow...this is so unexpected."

"I know. I thought we were being careful. Are we really ready for this?"

Caine gently squeezed her hand. "I don't know if anyone is really ready to raise another human being, but I promise to be by your side through this. I made a vow, remember?"

Pomni leaned on Caine's shoulder. "Yeah, I do."

"Exactly." He kissed her head and laid his cheek against her. He basked in a moment of silence with her before he spoke his stream of consciousness. "...we made life, Pomni. A little one."

"Not yet. They're still cooking."

"We're gonna have to clean out the spare bedroom and make it a nursery."

"That'll be fun." Pomni mumbled sarcastically.

"Do you think it'll be a boy or a girl? I hope it's a girl. Girl dads always seem to have the most fun. Oh my god, what if we have twins?"

"Jeez, I hope not." Pomni laughed.

Caine gasped. "We should invite the gang out to tell them! Oh, they'll be so excited!"

"Hold your horses, party boy. I am in no mood for a night out."

"Oh, right, sorry. Once you're feeling better, of course, but keeping it a secret is going to be so hard! I'm gonna be a dad!" Caine announced to the car. Bubble wagged his tail and lightly barked, feeling Caine's excitement.

Caine hugged Pomni across the center console. "I love you so much. I promise, you'll be great."

Pomni kisses Caine gently. "I love you too. We'll be great."

[starb3rrys]

Hello, can I request Jouno giving you aftercare? Just you not being able to walk and full of bruises and him needing to help you while teasing you yk? If you want, can you also do a Tecchou one?

Anyways- your writing is amazing :]

Agh!! I apologize for the late reply. I love writing some sweet aftercare fluff for this iconic duo! I might do a part 2 with different characters in the near future considering I have some other cute takes on how each character pampers their s/o after utterly ravaging them- (￣ω￣;). Anyways, thank you so much for the request and I hope you enjoy!

*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚

Sweet Ol' Aftercare

Ft. Jouno, Tecchou

*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚

Jouno

Soft breaths surround the room as your aching body quivers under Jouno's. Your head was spinning, unable to form any thoughts as the overwhelming feeling of pure bliss was screwing with your senses. A familiar chuckle snapped you back into reality as the sheets rustled, "Quite ironic and hilarious to hear you become an exhausted, drooling mess after getting what you were nagging me all day for." Soft lips kissed your neck as slim fingers caressed your sore legs. "Was it worth it? Was it worth getting all sore and bruised up?", he teased as his breath tickled against your skin. You tried your best to muster up a snarky response...a simple "shut up" or "go to hell" would've sufficed. Unfortunately, your throat was pretty much spent from letting out loud cries and serving as Jouno's personal fleshlight. He quietly laughed to himself as he heard you struggling to even form a sentence, taking pride in the fact he was the sole reason for your aching.

His fingers traced your collarbone, feeling the bite marks and warm spots--indicating just how much he marked you. "Do they sting a lot?", he asked with a tender tone. As much as Jouno loves to tease and playfully bully you just to see you argue back or get all pent up (Fucking Sadist-), he does genuinely care and wants to make sure he wasn't too overly rough on you. You sigh, noticing his concern...you shake your head slowly. He grinned, "Always so stubborn...come on, admit you liked it". You shook your head, not wanting to give him the satisfaction. He tried to hold back a laugh, "Oh come on, I know you can say it...you didn't seem to hesitate letting out those erotic words and begs to me earlier, don't get shy now", he teased. He felt your body heat up and tremble under his fingertips, "Fine, I suppose ill let you stay quiet this time considering how tired you are...but, by the way you were squeezing me so tight earlier, I know what the answer is."

Jouno's arms found their way around your waist as he helped you sit up in bed, placing your back against the headboard. He left and soon returned with a cup of water, offering it to you. Your arms shakily reached for the cup and you swear it weighed like 5 pounds. Jouno heard the water shake, indicating that your hold was not at all steady. He moved closer and helped you hold the cup, "Open up and slowly drink some, Okay? Don't rush", he told you as his eyebrows knitted together. You slowly drank some water, the water freshly soothed your sore throat...the feeling of cold hydration was amazing. Jouno pulled the cup away and set it down on the nightstand. "Can you even feel your legs?", he asked with a slight chuckle. You shook your head as you gazed down at your bitten and bruised up thighs. Jouno nodded and stood up, his arm swiftly went under your knees and the other on your back. He carried you towards the bathroom, feeling your head on his chest as your hands weakly rested around his neck made him smile, you were so vulnerable and depended on him for help. He turned on the warm water as he entered the shower, placing you onto your feet. Your back rested against his chest for support as the water coated you both. "Now, I may love you but I dislike the scent of your sweat...it makes my nose hurt", he said as he caressed your arms under the warm water...

Tecchou

Soft taps on your cheek followed by a low and breathless voice, "Hey...Hey, are you okay?". No words fell from your lips as you attempted to catch your breath, the consequence of Tecchous neediness and desperation. Clothes lied scattered around the room, thrown and ripped off without care prior. A small smile filled Tecchous lips, his hands moving your hair to the side. "I see you're still conscious but...wow...", his voice drew shivers down your spine as his fingers touched your bruised neck. "I really do act like a feral dog around you, marking my territory.", he teased with a low chuckle. You couldn't bring yourself to look at him, embarrassment filled your senses as your shaky hands covered your face. He grinned, "Oh don't be shy now, you know you loved every mark I left on you." Your eyes focused and widened as Tecchou sat up straight and gave you a full view of his own marked body; chest, neck, arms, and back were covered in bruises/bites and scratches...made by your handy work. "Your shyness was nowhere to be seen when you marked me all up, now was it?". He was right, you didn’t hesitate for a second when you scratched his back and bit his neck as he practically rammed you into the mattress, the memory was enough to fluster you.

He frowned slightly and let his hand travel up your jaw, gently gripping your chin. "Look at me...", his voice was hoarse yet tender making it seem like more of a request than a command. Your unfocused eyes met his, dragging a smile onto his lips. "Are you okay?", his words were filled with concern as his soft eyes scanned your features, your heart fluttered. Tecchou's hands drew up your thighs with care, "Your legs are trembling, was I too rough?". Your soft head shakes were enough to reassure him you were okay...Tecchou could be a rough and teasing individual when you two slept together, but he always took care of you as if you were the most delicate and fragile thing on earth. He leaned down and planted a soft kiss onto your lips, your hands traveled onto his hair as he kissed you with such love. His hands massaged your sore hips, his lips moved down and kissed the deep hickeys left on your neck. Each kiss felt like a spark, soothing and relaxing your body under his touch.

Tecchou stood up and grabbed a wet towel, he carefully moved your legs apart and cleaned you gently. "We can change the bedsheets later...", he said as he put the towel away and laid beside you. His strong arms pulled you into him, firm arms wrapped around your waist. Your head rested against his chest, hearing his steady heartbeat made your eyes grow heavy. He kissed the top of your head, "We'll shower in a bit...but for now...". His voice grew farther and farther as your bruised body gave into slumber..."rest up, my love"...

*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚

I loved writing this one-shot! My favorite part was definitely Jouno. I decided to make Tecchou a bit less teasing and more comforting in his part since I believe his main concern would be making sure his s/o is okay- Anyways, I hope you all enjoyed this fluff one-shot! Love ya! ( ˘ ³˘)♥︎

[willalove75]

hi, i hope you know that you're one of my favourite fanfic writers when it comes to lady dimitrescu x reader! can I request something angsty? i just want something to cry about. can you do a fic where lady dimitrescu insists on taking care of a stubborn y/n after finding out that y/n has an incurable illness, but then it's too late because the reader is on her death bed? I love your works so much! 💖✨

AW thank you SO much!!!💕

I love this request and I already know it's going to be heartbreaking.

LETS GET SAD!

Warnings: 18+ Only Minors DNI

Tags: death, sickness, grieving

A/n: I cried writing this so you're welcome😅😂

It started off slowly, you woke up most mornings still tired even after a full nights rest, your legs started to feel weak, your nose sprung a leak a few times. You thought you were just run down and didn't think much of it.

You didn't think there were any problems until Alcina fed from you for the first time in awhile after a night of passionate love making.

The moment your blood touched her tongue she pulled away.

"Draga,"

"What? What's the matter?" Her eyes were wide and filled with fear. "Alci, what's wrong?"

"Your blood." Her breathing was becoming labored and her hands started to tremble.

"Baby, what's wrong-"

"Have you been feeling okay? Has something been wrong?"

"I've been fine, a little more tired than usual, my legs have been tired, but nothing massive, nothing really concerning. I've just been run down. Why? Alcina, what's wrong?"

"There's something wrong with your blood."

"What?"

"The taste, it's not right. Somethings wrong, draga."

"What's wrong? What do you mean it doesn't taste right?"

"I- I can't explain it, like there's something in your blood. Like it's sick," you see a lightbulb go off in her head and her eyes fill with tears as she looks down at you. "it's sick. Your blood is sick draga mea."

You move to sit up and you realize the pillowcase underneath you is stuck to you. It's soaked in blood.

"Oh gods, shit." Alcina mutters before flying into the bathroom and running out with gauze and bandages. You rarely hear her curse so you know she's really freaked out when she does. "Have your wounds had trouble closing lately?" She asks as she bandages you up.

"I mean, I don't think so. I got a papercut the other day and it bleed for like, maybe thirty minutes? But I just thought it was a deep cut. I didn't think much of it."

"Damnit." She says, wiping away tears.

"Hey, hey, come here." You say, pulling her down into you. "It's okay, everything is going to be okay."

The way Alcina was reacting was definitely scaring you a little, but you were never going to admit that to her, or yourself.

"We are going to the city first thing tomorrow morning to get you looked at."

"Why? There's a physician in the village-"

"No. The physicians are better in the city and they have better equipment and the latest technology. Do not argue with me, my word is final."

"Okay, okay, we'll go in the morning. Just lay down, relax. Everything is going to be okay, alright?"

The two of you lay in each others arms in silence for some time. You can feel her warm tears falling against your chest and you run your hands through her hair and kiss the top of her head.

"What's the matter, love?"

"I'm scared, draga." She whispers.

"How bad was it?"

"It was bad."

As dramatic as Alcina could be at times, you knew when it came to medical stuff she was level headed. She had a lot of knowledge and experience in all of her years and when she gave someone a preliminary diagnosis before they could see the doctor, she was usually right.

Fear creeped into your chest at her response. If she's saying it was bad, then it was bad.

The next morning Alcina woke you up and helped you get dressed. You were more than capable of doing it yourself but you know that she was worried so you let her help. As you're about to head downstairs she lifts you up and carries you.

"Love, I can walk."

Alcina says nothing and tightens her grip on you and brings you out to the carriage.

The ride to the city was oddly silent. Alcina stared out the window almost the entire time. You could see the worry on her face, that she was teetering on the edge of a downward spiral.

"Hey," you say, grabbing her hand that's tightly clenched in her lap. "look at me." She slowly shifts her gaze towards you and meets your eyes. "Whatever happens, we'll be okay. We'll figure it out, okay?"

Her eyes begin to tear up again and she wipes the ones that escape as she looks away. You decide to crawl into her lap, cuddling into her and resting your head on her chest. She wraps her arms around you and rests her cheek against the top of your head. You can hear her heart pounding away inside of her chest with anxiety and fear.

After arriving at the office you have to convince Alcina to let you walk on your own and she reluctantly lets you.

Alcina refuses to leave your side for a moment, even when you're going through your testing. Usually these tests can take weeks to get the results of, but with enough lei and a threatening stare from Alcina, they said they should have most of the results in a few hours.

The day seemed to drag on for hours but finally the results were in. The doctor sat across from the two of you at his desk and Alcina gripped your hand as tight as she could without hurting you. The moment you looked into his eyes, you knew Alcina was right. It was bad, really bad. You were dying and there wasn't much they were able to do. He talked about some experimental treatments that were available that could buy you more time, but not much.

Alcina froze at the news. Her breathing was so shallow you could barely see the rise and fall of her chest. A crack echoed through the room and you realize that she cracked the wooden arm of the chair she was holding onto with her other hand.

"So you're saying, there's nothing to be done?" Her voice has no emotion in it, like it was stone.

"Nothing that can cure it, no. I'm sorry."

"How much time?" You ask as tears fill your eyes.

He tells you it could be as long as a year, but more than likely less.

Alcina quickly stands and sends the chair she was in flying backwards. She looks down at you and opens her mouth to speak but no words come out. You know she has to get out of here, that she's trying to keep the beast inside of her tamed but she's losing control. Looking back at her with understanding eyes, she leaves the room without saying a word and you hear her footsteps quickly retreating down the hall.

The doctor looks at you with both confusion and fear. It's not like the rumors of the village and the castle haven't spread to local cities such as this. That's probably why you were able to be seen and get your results to quickly. No one wanted to find out if the rumors were true or not.

A few minutes later you hear a scream that shakes the building and the sounds of people in the streets screaming. You lower your head for a moment, trying to keep your heart from shattering in your chest before walking over to the window. Outside you see Alcina, her dragon form flying through the air, pained screams echoing through the streets. She flies off towards the woods and you lose control of the tears you were keeping at bay.

The doctor gave you a folder with your results and the few treatment options you had available as the sound of trees being knocked down and thrown echo in the distance. When you were finished you had the carriage drop you off at the edge of the forest and you followed the heart-shattering cries of your wife until you found her uprooting trees and destroying everything in sight.

You could tell she was losing steam because her movements were slowed and she wasn't throwing trees nearly as far as you knew she could. Carefully approaching, she turned towards you when she heard your heartbeat and the beast screamed at you, begging you to stay away. But you couldn't, you wouldn't.

As you walked up to her, you placed a hand on one of the jaws of her dragon and leaned your head against it.

"I'm so sorry." You whispered to her as tears fell.

Soon after the beast began to crumble away into dust your wife fell to her knees in the debris. You pulled the robe you took from the carriage - that was kept for moments just like this when she returns from her beast form - around her bare shoulders and pried her hands away from her tear stained face. She pulled you into her, bringing you as close as you could be without being squished, and sobbed. You wrapped your arms around her neck and sobbed into her as well.

The two of you stayed there for who knows how long, only parting when neither of you had any tears left to cry. The sun had sunk below the mountains some time ago and you and Alcina walked through the dark forest back to the carriage with your hearts shattered in your chests.

Hearing that news was dreadful but what you dreaded more was telling the girls, your daughters, that you were dying. They were worried all day when they realized the two of you left early in the morning and hadn't come home. When you finally arrived home they knew something was terribly wrong the second they heard yours and Alcina's heartbeats.

To say they were devastated was an understatement. Daniela clung to for dear life as she sobbed hysterically, Bela held tightly onto her mother and Cassandra immediately flew into the dungeon and started throwing things around in anger.

The following weeks were somber, it was hard for the girls to look at you without crying or getting angry. Everyone, including yourself, went through periods of unbridled anger and sadness. But after a few weeks you all decided to try and enjoy the time you had left while you were still able to move around and be with them.

That however, didn't stop Alcina from trying to do everything for you.

"Love, please, I can do it." You say as you were doing your hair for the day.

"No, let me." She says, moving your hands away.

"Alcina, please." You sigh. "Please let me do it while I still can."

You know she was only trying to help but she was also smothering you a little and you wanted to be able to do as much as you could on your own before you were no longer able to.

"I'm sorry." She says as she drops her hands to your shoulders.

"It's okay my love. I know." You look up at her and she leans down, placing a tender kiss on your lips.

You were still able to do most things on your own but you were losing weight steadily and becoming weaker. As a family you decided to try one of the more promising experimental treatments. You realized quickly it wasn't working as effectively as it should have and the side effects outweighed the effectiveness so you decided to stop it. Even if it bought you more time, it wouldn't have been much and you would have been too sick from the treatment to enjoy spending what little time you had left with your family.

"Please, draga, let me help." Alcina says as you pull a few weeds from the garden.

"Well that bed needs weeding too, love." You say with a smile knowing damn well that's not what she meant.

Alcina rolls her eyes at you.

"I don't want you to exhaust yourself."

"I'm already exhausted Alcina."

"That's not what I mean." She says, crossing her arms over her chest.

You stand up and brush some of the dirt off of you and look up at her. You place your hand the side of her thighs, since you only come up to about her hip when she's standing, and her hand cradles the back of your head.

"I know, but I'm okay, I promise. I promise I won't over exert myself, okay?"

Alcina huffs in response and bends down to be closer to your level.

"I know I can be overbearing but I worry for you, draga."

"I know you do baby. It's okay."

She pulls you into her arms and you nuzzle into her neck. You try to enjoy the comfort of the moment but in the back of your mind you can't help but think if this is one of the last times you'll be able to hold her. Alcina will never say it out loud, but she's thinking the exact same thing.

Weeks turn into months and you grow weaker and weaker but you're still as stubborn as ever. Still refusing help, even if it takes you twice as long to do something. As long as you can do it - whatever it is - you're going to do it.

"Where are you going? You should be in bed resting, draga." Alcina says after she walks into the room.

"I'm just going to walk around the courtyard a bit."

"Draga-"

"Alcina, I've been in bed all day, I want to get some fresh air, stretch my legs a little. I'll be careful, I promise."

Alcina wants to fight you on this, she wants to pin you down in bed and make sure you stay there. But the two of you decided arguing over it isn't making anything any easier and it's only tainting the time you have left together. The two of you agreed, as long as you can confidently do something, you can do it until you can't any longer.

With a heavy sigh Alcina kneels down to your level and pulls you in for a hug.

"I love you, draga." She says before she kisses your cheek and goes to stand up.

You pull her back down and she follows, surprised when your lips capture hers. Since your illness has gotten worse the two of you haven't had much of a sex life, but when you have that burst of energy you take it for all it's worth.

Your kisses morph from passionate to desperate to frenzied and Alcina scoops you up and brings you to the bed. Within a minute both of you are stripped naked and are making love to each other. Your tiny body has always seemed so frail under Alcina's, but now it's even more so. Alcina uses extra caution but she's still able to unravel you underneath her as you cry out her name. She insists that you don't have to reciprocate but before she can protest you're between her legs, worshiping her like the goddess she is.

The walk around the courtyard can wait until tomorrow.

Things began to make a turn for the worst one day as you're walking across the castle lawn. It was a beautiful sunny day and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. Your legs felt shaky but they usually do for the first few minutes of your walks. Today they felt shakier than normal but you tried to keep going but after a few minutes they gave out from under you and you collapsed onto the ground.

"Mamă!" Daniela screams when she sees you fall.

She rushes to your side and Alcina runs out of the house.

"Draga! Draga mea are you okay?" Alcina cries.

"I'm okay, my legs just gave out, it's fine."

"Come, lets get you inside." Alcina says as she scoops you up and brings you to the bedroom.

The three girls cuddle around you, Daniela curled up into your chest crying.

"Shh, it's okay honey, I'm okay, I promise. I'm not hurt."

"It's not okay!" She cries. "None of this is okay!"

"I know, I know." You say, holding back tears.

"Nu te pot pierde mamă." (I can't lose you mom)

You never really learned Romanian so you're not sure what she said, but whatever it was caused a sob to erupt from Alcina. She quickly covered her mouth and turned away. She always hated when the girls saw her cry.

"Mamă, vino culcă-te cu noi. Avem nevoie de tine. Mama are nevoie de tine." Bela says, reaching out for her mother. (Mom, come lay with us. We need you. Mom needs you)

Alcina joins the four of you and wraps her long arm around all of you, holding everyone close. The sound of sniffling filled the air as everyone shed their tears.

"I'm so sorry girls." You whisper. "I wish it wasn't like this."

That day was a turning point, things only kept getting worse. You were getting weaker but you were still stubborn and tried to do everything yourself. You didn't want to admit that doing basic things, like getting dressed or showering, were becoming increasingly difficult to do alone.

Not long after you were no longer able to get out of bed on your own and you knew your days were really numbered.

Alcina was so desperate she even called Mother Miranda to see if there was anything she could do. That maybe you can get the cadou and it would save you. It was the only avenue you didn't try, the only chance you had left. Mother Miranda took a few vials of your blood back to her lab to see if it would be compatible but called a few days later saying the cadou mutated uncontrollably when exposed to your blood and it wouldn't save you, it would only kill you. Not that it was a necessary detail, but she mentioned that it would be a far more gruesome and painful death than the one you were already experiencing which caused Alcina to throw her desk across the room in anger.

Your days were limited, and there was nothing you could do. You were dying, and your immortal family couldn't do anything but sit there and watch.

The girls spent every moment possible with you at your bedside. It broke your heart seeing how broken the girls were over all of this.

You knew that they would all outlive you, but you thought you had a few more decades left with them. In less than a year you went from totally healthy to your deathbed. The whiplash you got from thinking about it almost drove you crazy.

Alcina was with you, every day and every night. She hired someone to take over the vineyard and wine production so she could care for you full time. You were grateful, but you hoped she wouldn't let them take it over forever. Once you were gone, once the worst of the grieving was over, she needed to go back to work. She was a business woman, she always had to be doing something. You worried about what was going to happen to her after you left.

You could feel death creeping its way closer to you each day. At first you tried to fight it off but eventually, you stopped fighting. You just couldn't anymore. Death didn't scare you, truthfully you weren't scared at all. But your heart was broken knowing how devastated your family would be when you finally take your last breaths.

On your last day the girls and Alcina spent all day in bed with you. You did your best to shower them in as much love and kisses as you could physically manage. You knew you weren't going to make it through the night. When nighttime fell, the girls all gave you a teary goodnight, just in case you weren't there when they woke up in the morning.

Alcina was fussing with something and you reached your hand out towards her.

"Alcina." Your voice was barely a whisper now, it had been like that for a few days.

She turns towards you and dropped whatever she had in her hands and it fell to the ground. Alcina crawled into bed next to you and wrapped her arms around you. Both of you knew this was the end.

"I love you." You said.

"I love you so much draga mea." She said through tears.

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay draga, it's okay. I love you, I love you so much. Rest my love. Rest."

"I'll be waiting for you, I promise." Alcina buried her head into your neck and cried as your breaths slowed. "I love you Alcina. I love you."

"I'll love you forever, draga mea."

Those were the last words you heard before your eyes closed and a warm light took over.

They buried you in the gardens under your favorite tree.

It took time, a long time, but things in the castle began to return to normal. As normal as it could when they was such a huge piece of everyone's lives missing. Eventually laughter rang out through the halls and even though it hurt, the girls and Alcina were able to smile again.

You were able to watch over them and you visited Alcina in her dreams as often as you could. As the years went on your visits lessened but you were still with them every day.

One fateful winter day a man entered the castle. He was elusive and sneaky and you knew he was trouble. Alcina sent the girls after him. Bela was the first one to die. When she arrived she seemed confused but immediately ran into your arms.

"Mamă, mi-ai fost dor de tine." (Mom, I missed you.)

He killed Cassandra next and you and Bela were there to greet her.

"Tu ești, nu-mi vine să cred că ești tu, mamă." (It's you, I can't believe it's you, mom.)

Alcina locked Daniela in the library to protect her but that wretched man-thing was able to get in. It pained you knowing he was slaughtering your family but you were happy that you were here to greet them so they wouldn't be alone.

"MAMI! Mi-a fost dor de tine mamă, mi-a fost atât de dor de tine." Daniela said as she ran into your arms. (MOMMY! I missed you mom, I missed you so much.)

You and the girls rested as you kept an eye out for Alcina. Your heart broke for her. In just a few hours she lost every one of her children, the things she loved more than anything in the world. Even you came second to them.

Alcina found Ethan in the Tower of Worship and when he stabbed her with the dagger of deaths flowers, white-hot pain like lightening shot through her body. She wasn't able to contain the beast any longer. Truthfully, she didn't want to.

She wanted that man dead, he took what was most precious to her away. Her girls. Her babies.

"How dare you talk about saving your daughter after you murdered mine!" She screams.

The poison from the dagger was coursing through her veins. Her regeneration abilities ceased and she was growing weaker by the minute. She needed blood but couldn't seem to get him.

Alcina tried her hardest, she fought tooth and nail but in the end, the man won.

"Damn you Winters!" She screams as the ceiling of the tower caves in.

You watch as she plummets to her death, your heart aches knowing she's in so much pain but you know she'll be in your arms soon.

The girls stay behind as you go to greet Alcina. She walks around the castle with confusion on her face and her hand over the spot where the man stabbed her. You stand there for a minute just watching her before she sees you.

The air rushes out of Alcina's lungs the moment she spots you. Her eyes begin to fill with tears and you take a few steps forward.

"Draga," she whispers. "you're, you're here?"

"Welcome home, my love."

You close the distance between the two of you and she reaches out a trembling hand and gently cups your face. She's worried that you'll disappear the moment she makes contact with you. The moment she feels the warmth of your cheek against her skin she wraps her arms around you tight. There's still a height difference between the two of you, but not nearly as great as it once was.

Tears flow from Alcina's eyes as she buries her face into your neck and you hold onto the back of her head, your fingers tangling in her hair.

"I missed you iubirea mea, I missed you so much." She cries.

"I missed you too my love. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry I left, I'm so sorry I couldn't protect you."

"None of that matters, you're here now."

Alcina pulls back and cups your face, brining you in for a deep kiss.

"Mother!" The girls yell in unison as they run towards the two of you.

Alcina pulls away and snaps her head in the direction of the girls.

"My girl! My beautiful daughters." More tears fall as she wraps her arms around the three of them. "You're all here. All of you, you're all here."

She pulls you into the hug and the girls cuddle up to the two of you.

"My loves. All of my loves." Alcina says. "I finally have you all back."

[kyleoreillylover]

Finn Balor x Fem!Reader

Summary: Finn takes care of his very sick and stubborn girl.

You lay in your locker room, your body aches and lump in your throat weighing you down and making you feel like you ran a marathon. The harsh bright lights felt harsh against your tired eyes, and the room's cold ass temperature did nothing to help your already freezing body. In just a few hours, you were supposed to be in the ring, giving your all in the ring and to the fans watching. But right now, all you wanted to do was curl up in bed and sleep off your sickness for the next few days.

Your phone buzzed, and you glanced at the screen. It was a message from Liv. She was due to wrestle tonight as well, and you'd both been looking forward to catching up before the show.

"Liv's probably excited to see me," you muttered to yourself, trying to summon the energy to get up.

As you struggled to put on your ring gear, the door to your locker room creaked open, and in walked Liv. "Hey, girl! Ready to kick some ass tonight?" she cheered, her voice full of enthusiasm.

"You know it, babe." You answered, managing a weak smile, but Liv's sharp eyes caught your dull ones and the faint sheen of sweat on your forehead. "Sweetie, are you okay? You look a bit... off," she observed, concern etching her features.

You quickly brushed off her worry. "I'm just a little tired, Liv. I'll be fine once I get in the ring," you assured, though your voice was barely above a whisper.

Liv wasn't convinced. She stepped closer, her brow furrowing as she reached out and felt your forehead. "You're burning up! Why didn't you say anything, dummy?"

You avoided her gaze, trying to shrug off her concern. There was nothing scarier than an angry protective Liv. "It's nothing, Liv. Just a little fever. I've wrestled through worse."

But Liv was having none of it. She pushed you gently until you were seated and then slipped off her leather jacket. "Here, put this on. You're shivering."

You tried to refuse, but Liv was insistent. She draped the jacket over your shoulders and she gently pushed you down onto the locker room bench. "Sit. I'm getting you some water."

You sighed but complied, watching as Liv filled a cup with water from the nearby sink. She handed it to you and then scurried off to grab a box of tissues.

Liv returned and sat down next to you, worry etched across her face. "You're not going out there tonight, okay? I don't care what you say."

You sighed again but didn't argue. "Just let me finish getting ready. I'll be fine."

Liv shot you a disapproving look. "I'm telling Finn."

Your eyes widened, panic setting in. "No! Liv, promise me you won't tell Finn. He'll worry, and he's got his own match to focus on."

Liv hesitated but ultimately nodded. "Fine, but only because you're going to promise me that if you feel any worse, you'll pull out of the match."

You agreed reluctantly, and Liv gave you a reassuring pat on the back before excusing herself to head to her own locker room. Little did you know, Liv was more concerned about you than you realized.

As you continued to get ready, there was a knock at your locker room door. You assumed it was Liv returning with more supplies, so you called for her to come in without looking up.

The door opened, but instead of Liv's cheerful voice, you heard Finn's concerned one. "Luv? Liv told me you're not feeling well. Are you okay?"

You froze, slowly turning to face him, your pale face now visible. Finn's eyes widened with worry as he rushed over to you, his hand gently touching your forehead.

"You're burning up," he whispered, his voice laced with concern.

"I'm fine, Finn," you mumbled weakly, trying to downplay your illness.

Finn wasn't having it. He scooped you up into his arms, ignoring your protests, and began carrying you out of the locker room.

"Finn! Put me down!" you exclaimed, but your voice came out shaky and small.

Finn ignored you and carried you to the medical area. The doctors there confirmed that you were indeed running a fever and advised you not to wrestle tonight. Finn nodded in agreement and helped you back into your regular clothes.

Once you were bundled up and ready to go, Finn gently scolded you as he drove you back to your place. "You should have told me sooner, Luv. You don't have to be so stubborn. I care about your well-being more than any match."

You sighed and leaned your head against his shoulder. "I'm sorry, Finn. I just didn't want to worry you."

Finn pressed a soft kiss to your forehead. "I appreciate the sentiment, but I'd rather know and take care of you. Now, let's get you home and rest up. I'll make you some soup."

As you nestled into Finn's warm embrace, you couldn't help but smile. You were thankful for him (and for Liv too) and there must've been a God or angel up there that liked you because you didn't know how Finn had the patience to keep putting up with your stubborn ass. You didn't like being taken care of by anyone, usually settling for pushing through whatever it was you were dealing with, but Finn was slowly undoing all of that, teaching you that it didn't hurt to be taken care of once in a while. And you couldn't have been more grateful for that.

[emepe]

— Pairing: Eren x Reader, friends to lovers

— General info: series, 18+, modern AU, serial killer AU, smut, fluff, angst, hurt/comfort

— Summary: Fate is a tricky thing. Certain situations can’t be avoided as much as certain people’s lives can’t be kept from intertwining. With a serial killer on the loose, and unexpected relationships blooming, how will the universe intervene?

— Chapter summary: The past is revealed to Eren, who can only do his best to prove that it doesn’t change his feelings.

— Content warnings: past child abuse/neglect, drug use, unstable family life, grooming, SA, slightly nsfw, mention of unprotected sex.

— Notes: Sorry for the cliffhanger last week lol but you should be used to it haha. Chapter 10 is now here! <3 There’s a lot going on in this chapter so please pay attention to the content warnings before reading. Don’t be shy to stop by my ask box <3 If anyone else would like to be added to the tag list, lmk. Happy reading!

Links: Read on AO3 | Chapter guide | Masterlist

then and now

It wasn’t always so bad.

My earliest memory is that of my mom giving me a warm cup of tea and honey when I fell incredibly ill at three years old. I'd eaten something unclean and I was stuck in my parent's bed for a week, feverish, with little appetite and even less strength. If I concentrate enough, I can still hear echoes of my parents sitting at the kitchen table, crunching the numbers from their pooled savings so they could afford a doctor's visit. My mom remained by my side the entire time to make sure the IV drip didn't spontaneously clog, or that I didn't move the hand that was connected to it and started bleeding out into the tube. The doctor said a little bleeding was normal, but she was scared of it happening at all. 

I developed a hatred for cabbage, which is what the doctor recommended to help regain strength without hurting my stomach. My father went out to buy it and my mom fed it to me in soup. She'd make a game out of it, and she promised to take me to the park to play as soon as I got better. I remember my childhood fondly if I focus on that first memory. So, I'm pretty sure anything before that was just as good. 

I didn't know until I was way older that my mother did drugs before she had me. She struggled with addiction at sixteen, which was well into her relationship with my father. The only difference was, he remained clean after my mom told him she was pregnant during their senior year of high school. 

I couldn't understand that I was witnessing her relapse after I started kindergarten. Apparently, being four and a half years old is the cutoff for being worthy of staying sober for. 

That's when everything started spiraling. My mom failed to pick me up from school several times, leaving me to spend hours tucked away in the library, keeping Mrs. Zacharias company while she pretended to rearrange already organized books. My father worked long hours at a factory, some of which had to be punctured like swiss cheese so he could take me home because my mom was nowhere to be found.

By the time she stumbled through the door, she was being brought in by strange men. I never met them, I just knew they were there because the noise would wake me up in the middle of the night and I'd hear my father arguing with my intoxicated mom after thanking them for bringing her home. 

My mom looked sick. As her number one fan, I was worried. She was getting skinnier, she barely ate and she seemed tired all the time yet never got enough sleep to heal the dark circles under her sunken eyes.

The first time I attempted to cook something, I was six. I could easily get by during school days. I had breakfast and lunch there, and sometimes Mrs. Zacharias would give me pretzel sticks if I read a book out loud to her while we waited for my father to come get me. But on weekends, I was on my own. My father was working even on weekends to make ends meet and even when my mom happened to be home, she wasn't truly there.

So, while she was locked inside the bathroom for hours, I went into the kitchen and tried to boil an egg. I couldn't find the small pot we always used, but my pink plastic bowl was on the drying rack from last night after my father fed me dinner. 

I didn't know you weren't supposed to put plates onto a hot stove. The plate cracked and stuck to the burner. I tried to pry it off but I burned my hand. It would take years for the scar to fade. 

When my mom saw what I'd done, she slapped me straight across the face. I was dragged by my hair and locked in the minuscule storage closet as punishment. That was just the first of many times. 

My father would always be the one to let me out when he got back from work late at night, and I'd quietly call him from the inside, scared because I'd urinated myself and he'd probably be just as mad as my mom. But he wasn't. He'd clean me up, scrape the plastic from my now useless pink bowl from the burner, and feed me.

My father grew tired of it. All the money that was meant for food and supplies went directly to dealers, meaning he had to spread himself even thinner. When he found out my mom had ransacked the secret place he kept his savings for the sixth time, he snapped. 

I was twelve by then, so I understood everything that was going on.

They had a huge fight and he stormed into the bedroom to pack his clothes into a bag. But my mom was ballistic. She took a pair of scissors and started cutting anything she could get her hands on into pieces.

I heard a series of slapping and punching before my father passed me by in the living room — no money or clothes on him — and slammed the door shut behind him.

Things got even worse.

My mom would constantly yell that if it hadn't been for me, my father never would've left. She'd tell me I ruined her life and that I was a burden. Had she not gotten pregnant at eighteen, her life would be a whole lot simpler.

But now we didn't have any money, I didn't have a father, and my mom's addiction pushed her into getting a job. Even back then, at twelve years old, I felt guilty because she had to work because of me. 

She started off at a laundromat. Mrs. Zacharias visited our apartment because I hadn't gone to school for a few days and she wanted to check in. Despite my mom's foul language toward the kind librarian, she helped her get the job. 

My mom was very happy to work at the laundromat, though it had less to do with having a purpose than it did with the crumpled bills she'd find in people's clothes that would later serve as pocket change for her dealer. 

After a year, she was fired after being caught stealing from the register. It was surprising she even lasted that long in that place. 

But now she was even more desperate. 

And that's when the men started coming.

I spent my elementary and middle school years hearing my mom having sex with strangers inside the room she used to share with my father while I did homework on the kitchen table. 

Some of them were nice. Some of them weren't. 

Sometimes my mom's dealer would be the one to come around. 

One day, when I was thirteen, I'd just gotten back from the school library from working on a group project and I was making myself a sandwich when he came out of the bedroom, still buckling his pants.

“Hey there, princess,” he said.

“Hi, Steve.”

I didn't think it was strange to be on a first name basis with the guy. He was around a lot and that in itself meant it was okay to be close with him, in my mind.

Besides, he wasn't that much older than me. I think about eighteen or nineteen. It just made sense to be friends.

“How's school?” he asked as he leaned back into one of the chairs at the table.

I knew he didn't really care — that's why he dropped out, he'd say — but I still answered him honestly.

“Math's getting a bit hard but I'm doing okay.”

“That's ‘cause you're smart,” he praised as he lit up a cigarette and took the first drag. “You're gonna make it outta here real quick with that brain of yours.”

He held my gaze as he blew out the smoke away from my face. It didn't matter because it drifted back to me anyway. 

“You're pretty, too,” he murmured before taking another long drag.

I shook my head, an unamused scoff leaving my lips.

“I'm serious,” he laughed.

I turned back to look at him again, suddenly feeling shy. 

He had very nice eyes. Sometimes bloodshot but always very blue. 

I always liked how blue his eyes were.

I also liked that he complimented me. Outside of school I was barely praised for anything. 

“You think I'm pretty?”

His smile slowly faded as he squashed his cigarette butt on the floor and leaned closer to me.

“Yeah, you're fuckin’ pretty, darlin’,” he murmured, his eyes flitting to my lips. “Wish I could taste you.”

I could feel my face grow hot at his words. At the time I thought he meant he wanted to kiss me, and perhaps that was all there was to what he said, but I found myself leaning closer to him, too.

I had my first kiss with a nineteen year old drug dealer. I didn't know what I was doing, of course, so I just tried to mimic his movements. He tasted awful but I felt my stomach fluttering at the thought that someone thought of me as pretty and not a disgusting nuisance.

The kiss was cut short when my mom caught sight of the scene and angrily kicked him out.

She was fuming when she got back to me, and I could feel my stomach trying to climb up my throat in anxiety.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” she yelled.

I tried to explain that he asked to kiss me first, that he made the first move. But she overpowered me.

“You think I don't notice the way you look at all my men?” she sneered. “It wouldn't kill you to stop wearing that skimpy little skirt around, you filthy slut.”

I was next to be thrown out of the house. 

Living on the first floor of our apartment building included some perks, one of them being we didn’t have to climb the metal stairs attached to the side of the building to get to our apartment. There were no stairs connecting the apartment floors on the inside, either, which meant there was plenty of privacy. 

But it also meant I had no way of getting back inside that night.

It was December. It was snowing. And I slept outside.  

From then on, I was nothing but a whore, a vicious slut who was interfering with my mom's business. I had to leave the house each time she had someone over, or be locked in the closet until they finished. My mom said that as long as I was in view, men would be more interested in me, the pretty young thing, instead of her. And that wasn't fair.

Over the next couple of years, we coexisted with each other. I stayed out of her way as much as I could, a habit that ultimately translated to other aspects of my life. And she spared me just enough attention when I needed to be punished for taking money for school supplies and food. 

It got to a point when I started hanging around my high school more than I should. I'd get there extremely early and leave as late as I could without getting in anyone's way. 

And I actually really liked school. Steve wasn't lying when he said I was smart. I really did have a knack for picking up on things easily, and good grades came to me like a birthright. 

I was top of the list for everything.

Minus social skills.

I kept to myself. I was smart but I barely raised my hand in class so as to not rob anyone else of the opportunity to participate. I ate lunch alone in front of my locker to not take up any space at a table in the cafeteria. But I was fine with it.

Everything was fine.

Zeke Fritz was the youngest teacher at my school. He was well-mannered and charming, and he was very popular among all his students — but especially the girls.

He just had a dignified presence that drew everyone in. A lot of the female teachers would shamelessly flirt with him but he always remained very composed.

As the only male born to politicians with connections just about everywhere, Zeke Fritz could've lived a cushy life with a breezy job that would keep him comfortable for life.

But he wanted to be a high school teacher. So, fresh out of a masters program in math, he quickly snagged the open position at the high school I enrolled in years later. Not that an open position was a sign of good luck. For Zeke Fritz, spaces were manufactured for him wherever he chose to go.

He was well qualified for the job, though. He'd also taken a liking to me during my first and only semester of my first year. I was the first to pick up on every formula he taught and he found that endearing. 

“I think I want to be a teacher someday,” I confessed one late afternoon when he asked me to help grade my classmates’ recent pop quiz. 

I'd accepted out of a sense of duty, and because if I had rejected him, it surely would've caused him trouble of some sort.

Right?

“You'd make a fantastic teacher,” he smiled.

So, there we were. Looking back, that must've been the day I dug my own grave because Mr. Fritz seemed awfully delighted that I didn't reply to his request for help with an excuse, and that I basically confessed to looking up to him. My compliant attitude must've looked a lot different for him than it did for me.

He drove me home an hour later and watched me open the door to the apartment before leaving, like a perfect gentleman. I waved him goodbye and he smiled at me from inside his car, waving back as he sped off.

That was one of the last few times I saw him. Because just two weeks later, I dropped out of school. 

Little by little, my mom had built up a large debt with Steve, and seeing that she'd taken loans from different people, whatever she earned from selling sex just didn't cut it. Our water, gas, and electricity bills were more than we could pay for, so I had no choice.

I started mowing lawns, raking leaves, cleaning pools and houses, and walking dogs for extra cash. I wasn't rich by any means, but I'd split most of the money to appease debt collectors and whatever was left to save for a rainy day. 

When my mom noticed I was bearing most of the weight, she began slipping away from her own, leaving it for me to pick up. She continued abusing, and even developed more expensive tastes. There wasn't much I could do at that point. I could beg her to stop and flush her pills down the toilet but we'd just go in circles for hours and I'd end up huddled in the corner with tears, hugging myself in an attempt to feel some warmth. 

I landed a waitressing job at a diner. I'd go three days a week and on my off-days I'd keep working odd jobs to stay afloat. 

On one occasion, Mr. Fritz walked in.

He pronounced my name with surprise. I was even more surprised he remembered me. An entire year had gone by since I'd seen him, and I was sure he had plenty of fresh faces to occupy himself with to remember his student of roughly four months.

I politely nodded at him in greeting and showed him to a table. That night, after he insisted on driving me home, I finally caved at his fourth try. 

However, as we neared my neighborhood, I burst into tears. He pulled into a dead-end street and turned off the car. I cried for the longest time, explaining through sobs that I was tired and that I missed school but I felt forced to leave.

He held me in his arms, his hand brushing down my back in comforting strokes until I calmed down.

He began frequenting the diner after that. Every Friday, he'd invite me to sit with him during my break and he'd fill me in on what he was teaching that week. 

One night when he came in, I had a nasty bruise on my face. In one of my countless fights with my mom, she'd thrown a broken glass at my face and cut my jaw. It wasn't deep, but it was enough to leave a mark for a couple of months. 

I didn't go back home that night. I felt awful for intruding on Mr. Fritz’s space, but he was adamant I stay with him until I figured what to do. 

He provided me with food that night and clothes the following morning. I didn't want to burden him, but he'd already bought them, so I accepted the clothes with a polite nod. I remember my face warming up when I noticed his generosity went as far as new underwear and a plain white bra that fit me a bit awkwardly, but he seemed unfazed.

His place was closer to the diner I worked at, and odd jobs could be found just as well in his neighborhood. So, as long as I stayed there, I kept my routine and even helped tidy his apartment as a thank you. 

At sixteen and a half, I started studying for my GED. Mr. Fritz helped me cram for the math portion and did as much as he could for other subjects. I was incredibly grateful. 

The afternoon the results were posted on the testing portal, I was a nervous wreck. Mr. Fritz stood behind me, his hands resting comfortably on my shoulders as he assured me I'd done just fine. I scrolled down the web page in search of a passing score. When I saw it, I jumped out of my chair and screamed excitedly. Mr. Fritz picked me up and spun me around as he rejoiced in my success. 

Even when he put me down, he kept his arms around my waist as he smiled down at me.

“Congratulations,” he murmured.

And then he leaned in.

The kiss took me by surprise. His hold was strong so I merely stumbled as I tried to draw a distance.

“Mr. Fritz—” 

“What's wrong?” he gently asked me. “Don't you like me?” 

My face warmed at the question, and I barely stuttered out a response. 

“I do, but–”

I wanted to explain that my fondness was out of admiration, but he cut me off before I could.

“Then why can't we kiss? I like you, too. I always have. It's only natural. I'm a man and you're a woman. We live together; it was bound to happen.”

Confused, but trusting that his logic was a compelling argument, I nodded.

“I guess that's true.” 

“And besides, I've been helping you this entire time. I did it because I care. I'd be hurt if you didn't think I was worthy after all I've done for you. Think of it as a token of your appreciation.” 

“I don't want you to think I'm ungrateful,” I murmured. 

My voice was barely above a whisper, but my meek demeanor made him smile.

Lifting my chin, he leaned down to kiss me again. I didn't stop him that time, and he just kept going.

Before I knew it, I was routinely bent over his dinner table or pushed down to my knees so I could repay his kindness. 

This went on for months.

I felt a bit guilty. Because even though I could feel it in my gut that his logic had its flaws, I still let him have his way with me. But a few weeks in, I was convinced I was in love with him. 

It was only natural, as he once said.

People who love each other do everything together. People who love each other kiss in the shadows all the time. They sleep next to each other in the same bed and they wake up at three in the morning to have sex, which ends with the guy telling the girl he loves her because the girl asked what she means to him. People who love each other would rather stay home than go out on dates where people can see them because love is best kept private.

That's what Zeke told me.

And I trusted Zeke. I loved him.

After the diner I worked at closed down, I started making deliveries for a nearby restaurant owned by a family of the name Grice. They could only offer me weekend hours, which meant I had to move my other jobs around but I accepted their offer. Since I couldn't drive a car or a motorcycle, I had to bike everywhere. Thankfully, the Grice's eldest son, Colt, gave me his old bike to use.

Colt Grice was nice. He was only a year younger than me but we'd never met until I started working for his parents. He went to private school, so it made sense we'd never crossed paths. 

Colt Grice also had a thing for me. He asked me out a couple of times but I always politely declined. I couldn't tell him a name, but I let him know I was seeing someone. So he remained a distant admirer. 

One Saturday afternoon, as I was cycling to and from the restaurant to make deliveries, I got lost looking for the last address on my list. 

I took a wrong turn and ended up in a neighborhood I couldn't recognize. Frustrated, I hopped off Colt's bike and started walking, hopeful to find someone to ask for directions.

I passed by a dead-end and there I saw it. Zeke's car.

Confused as to what he was doing there, but relieved nonetheless, I started walking toward the car to surprise him. But I never made it.

Because as soon as I stepped forward, I caught a second figure inside the car. A girl around my age, or maybe even one or two years younger was sitting on his lap in the back seat, fervently kissing him — and he wasn't doing anything to stop her.

Stunned, I rushed out of there as fast as my feet allowed me. 

By the time I came through the door of the Grice restaurant, I'd succeeded in my last delivery but I was a mess. Colt's parents rushed to me, asking if I was okay but all I could do was apologize for the delay. 

Seeing as it was already dark out, Colt offered to walk me home. He remained quiet the entire way to Zeke's apartment building, which was perfect because I didn't have it in me to talk. As I stepped one foot in front of the other in a zombie-like daze, I thought about how crummy my life had been so far. I kept seeing flashes of Zeke and that girl in the backseat. I also thought about whether I should actually be with someone like Colt Grice.

If I was honest, had Zeke never entered my life, I would've said yes to Colt Grice ages ago. He was kind and tall, and he was nice to look at. Not to mention he was closer to my age than Zeke was. 

So when we reached the front steps of Zeke's apartment building and Colt bid me goodbye with a smile, I stood on my tiptoes and kissed him.

He was taken aback, of course. But he kissed me back as soon as the shock subsided. 

Blushing, he asked if I'd like to get a smoothie with him after work tomorrow. 

I decided right then and there, on the eve of my eighteenth birthday, that I would cut ties with Mr. Fritz.

“I'd love to.”

Colt nervously laughed, amazed that I finally accepted his offer.

“I'll see you tomorrow, then,” he smiled, my name sweet on his tongue.

I didn't know Zeke had been watching us the entire time from his living room window.

My resolve to leave him was literally beaten out of me as soon as I walked through the door of his apartment.

I never brought up the girl from the dead-end street. 

I never showed up for work the next day, I never showed up for my date with Colt, and I never saw the Grice family again even after I left Zeke for good six months later.

I went back to living with my mom. As expected, she was still a mess but by then all the crap in her system had worn her out so much that I had to do everything for her. 

She couldn't fight with me like she used to just a year and a half ago, but it was still hell. She'd throw plates at me and scream horrible things at the top of her lungs until I'd break down crying each time. And that just wound her up even more. 

I couldn't just leave her. She was all I had and I was all she had.

But even the most patient hearts are worn out, and so even though I held out as much as I could for six years — and I was probably just waiting to keep her company on her deathbed — I left. She was too out of it to realize who she was talking to, but angry enough to throw a picture frame at the door when I walked out.

I moved to a new city and got a job. I used my savings to furnish the small apartment I found for myself, filling it with soft pastel colors that made the place my safe haven. 

I started wearing neutral colors, not wanting to draw attention to myself, and eventually found comfort in treating myself to the nice things I never had. 

I only went back to my hometown to fill out paperwork when I got a call that my mom had died. That same week I spent there, I heard through the grapevine that Zeke got arrested after he failed to manipulate the young daughter of one of his family's friends, bringing shame to the Fritz name. I never saw him, or Mrs. Zacharias, or Colt Grice ever again.

You don’t seem to notice that your hands have been shaking for a while now, but Eren does. He's been holding them the entire time as they prune in the cold water. 

Tears are pricking at his eyes but he refuses to let himself cry no matter how heavy his heart feels. It just doesn't feel appropriate when he's not the one trembling at the retelling of their life's story. 

Words don't come easy to him, either. An apology seems out of place, and any string of comfort just doesn't seem to cut it. He wanted to know everything and now he does. Now he's just lost on what to say that could prove to you that you made the right call to trust him.

“I'm sorry,” you murmur, lacing your fingers with his, pulling his hand out of the water, and kissing his knuckles. 

The gesture makes him ache.

“I know it's a lot.”

Eren could never lie to you. Everything you just told him definitely took a toll on him, but he’s also grateful that you shared it with him. And you shouldn't be the one to comfort him. It's given him an entire new perspective on who he wants to be for you. 

It rips him apart from the inside to think that you grew up believing you weren't worthy of healthy parents or a proper home. To think that the only time you experienced love it wasn't even real, and that distorted your understanding of the word forever. To think you were present to help anybody you could without someone to do the same for you without any ulterior motives. To think you made yourself small when you deserved just as much as anybody to take up space in the world. 

What can he say to a person who refuses to believe she could be genuinely loved but whom he loves like it's breathing?

If he had met you sooner, he would've done everything to protect you. It kills him that he couldn't keep you from being manipulated and used. 

“Do you still like me?”

Your timid voice wavers in the air. 

It dawns on Eren that he has yet to speak a word, and that you have no clue of where his head has been for the past few minutes since you caught him up to your present life. 

You don't turn around to look at him, nor do you make any other move. You just remain with your back to him, looking down at your naked legs through the soapy water.

When Eren peers at you over your shoulder, lifting your chin with a wet pruned finger, you struggle to meet his gaze. 

“Why wouldn't I?” 

You crumble in his arms. 

Eren cradles you as you cry into his chest like an affection-starved baby. He presses your naked body against his chest, rhythmically shushing you as his hand soothes your bare back and he presses his lips to your temple. 

You cry out twenty-four years worth of pain with Eren as your anchor. Your eyes swell and your features contort in anguish as you sob so violently, the movement reflects on your shoulders and your cries are mute. You cry until there are no more tears to shed and all that's left are a few hiccups as your body comes down from its panic. 

Eren turns on the shower and scrubs your body down. His fingers massage your scalp as warm water pours down your fragile frame. He sweeps the suds from your face with a gentle hand, as he looks down at you, teary-eyed but smiling as warmly as ever when you blink up at him. 

A soft, fluffy towel is ruffled over your hair as he draws out the excess moisture before he wraps a second around your body and lifts you in his arms in one swift motion. You cling to him while he carries you to bed, where he carefully sets you down and he hugs you to his chest, coaxing you to sleep while the world outside your window slows down and darkens.

It's around three in the morning when Eren stirs awake. As his eyes adjust to the darkness, he finds you looking at him.

“How long have you been awake?” he whispers.

You smile.

“A while,” you admit. “I didn't know watching someone sleep could be so fascinating.” 

“Well, now I'm embarrassed,” he laughs, his voice still groggy.

“Now you know how I feel,” you smirk, reminding him of when he's done the same. 

His hand comes up to cup your face.

“How are you feeling?” he tenderly asks, his bright emerald eyes shining in the dark.

“Better,” you murmur. Then you meekly add, “I didn't think I would cry so much. I'm a little embarrassed about that.”

Eren leans forward to plant a brief kiss on your lips. 

“Thank you,” he says, to which your eyebrows upturn in confusion.

“For trusting me,” he explains. “I know it couldn't have been easy to relive everything.”

He clears his throat as he strokes the apple of your cheek with his thumb.

“I didn't know what to say at the moment. If that freaked you out, I'm sorry. But I promise none of that changes the way I feel about you. Not that, not anything. I swear. I won't fail you.” 

You thought you were dried out, but Eren's words draw another series of tears to well in your eyes and cling to your lashes.

“So you still want me?”

He smiles.

“I told you. I'm in it for the long haul.”

As you melt in each other’s embrace, you realize this is what genuine love is. People who love each other want to know each other. They hold hands and play on swings in childlike glee. They wake up at three in the morning to watch the other person sleep, careful not to disturb them because the image of them dreaming is just too precious. And whether it be in light or shadows, people who love each other kiss slowly as words of praise and worship are poured into each other's mouths and warm hands caress each other’s scars.

The last two days leading to the New Year's Eve party at the Jaeger house are spent making last minute arrangements and check-ins with the catering service, florists, pyrotechnicians, and others. 

You and Carla spend the last day shopping. You brought one of your fancier dresses in your suitcase, but after witnessing all the crates of champagne being delivered and hauled into the house in preparation for the party, as well as a preview of the flower arrangements, you felt the need to seek something livelier than the original sleek black silk dress.

It takes several stores and countless fittings until Carla finds you the perfect dress. It's simple but pretty and you and Carla are over the moon with the way it fits you when you step out of the changing room.

The following night, the music from the main house's terrace can be heard all the way inside the pool house. You haven't met anyone yet, but the sound of car doors and alarms have been faintly echoing in the background for a while.

Eren’s fixing his bow tie in front of the bedroom mirror when you slowly wander into the bedroom, in your pretty pastel dress and strappy heels, fixing your earrings as you go. 

Eren's mouth falls open when he turns around and takes in the sight. 

“What do you think?” you shyly ask.

You're in a flowy midi knife-pleated dress, washed in pastel colors that blend seamlessly between lavender, pastel pink, blue and green, like a watercolor painting. The bustier-style bodice is connected to dainty straps in the same soft colors. 

His lips part and close as he struggles to find the right words. When you giggle, he finally grins and pulls you in by the waist.

“Are you even real?” he murmurs.

You laugh as he pushes you back against the wall, smiling and cradling your face with one hand as the other keeps you pressed against him by the small of your back.

Your hands drape around his neck as he catches a glimpse of the angel necklace resting below your collarbone.

“I think we should bail on the party and just celebrate here,” he grins as his nose brushes against yours. “You know, in some cultures, New Year's is more of a private holiday.”

You throw your head back in laughter as he peppers your neck with short, eager kisses.

“Seriously,” he says, leaning back just enough to admire your smiling face. “You look amazing.”

“Thank you,” you shyly reply. “You look really good, too.”

“Well, I remembered you liked me in a suit,” he smirks, eliciting a pleasant shiver to run down your spine. “So… what do you say?”

Giggling, you shake your head.

“I think your mom will notice if her only son doesn't show up to the party.”

Eren pouts.

“You're right. Then at least I'll get to brag about having the prettiest woman in the world with me.”

He enthusiastically pulls you into a kiss, drawing out an amused giggle from your lips as you melt into his touch. 

When he pulls back, you're both smiling, connecting in one enamored look.

“Eren, I love you.”

Your eyes twinkle as they blink up at him.

“I know I haven't said it in a while but… you know I do… right?”

Eren's heart frantically pounds against his ribs as he caresses your cheek with tender strokes of his thumb.

“Of course,” he murmurs. 

Your shoulders visibly relax, like you've been holding back on repeating those three words and this moment has finally granted you with relief.

Chewing on your bottom lip, you nod. 

“Okay,” you sigh happily. You peck the corner of his mouth. “Come on, Carla's probably wondering what's taking so long.”

Eren doesn't move, keeping you in place against the wall.

“Wait,” he says, his voice quivering slightly at the end.

He brings your hand to his chest, giving you a second to feel the fervent beats.

You look at him curiously as your name rolls off his tongue.

“I love you.”

His features soften before you as the words leave his lips, like pronouncing them has lightened an unknown weight on his shoulders.

“I didn't say it back then,” he adds. “But it wasn't because I didn't feel it. I was just surprised you said it first. But you know I've loved you this entire time… right?”

His shy confession lines your eyes with tears. 

“Of course,” you murmur. 

He sighs heavily in relief as he kisses you once more.

“I love you,” he repeats, the words falling from his lips like it's what he was put on this earth to pronounce. 

“I love you.” Kiss. “I love you.” Kiss. “I love you.”

You cling to him, your fingers carding through his hair as he ruins your lipstick with his fervent kiss.

“I love you, Eren,” you repeat, as you fall back onto the bed, where his hand snakes up your thighs and his fingers tug your underwear to the side. 

“I love you,” you sigh as he buries himself inside you, the contact raw without a single thing to keep you apart. 

“I love you,” you whimper as your legs wrap around his middle and he finishes inside. 

You both rest on the bed, hands laced together as you regain control of your breathing. 

“I love you,” Eren smiles, your full name bouncing off his tongue and making you giggle.

“I love you, Eren Jaeger.”

The music from the string quartet on the terrace begins to play, reminding you of the night's agenda. 

“Let's go,” Eren says, helping you up with one hand.

“I'm gonna need a minute,” you tell him as you fetch a fresh pair of underwear from the dresser. “I'll be quick.”

He nods, a cocky grin taking over his lips when he notices the streak of your lipstick smeared on your chin. 

“I'll wait for you outside,” he smiles. “I gotta make a call.”

You nod and slip into the bathroom.

As you take in your reflection, an excited flutter stirs in your stomach. 

Being with Eren doesn't compare to anything else in your life. He's the warmth you've craved your entire life. He's deep in every cavity of your being, patching you up from the inside with his strength and affection.

You decide at this moment that you've never loved anyone until him.

As you trade your ruined lipstick for a tinted lip gloss and you clean the remnants from your spontaneous lovemaking, three little words shaped by Eren's warm voice echoes in your ears.

I love you. 

With one last look in the mirror, you walk out to meet him. 

As you shut the pool house door behind you, you pick up the last of Eren's call.

“I gotta go… Yeah… Good luck, buddy.”

Eren ends the call with a quick tap to his screen before turning to you.

He holds out his hand for you to take.

“Ready?”

The party is in full swing on the terrace. Champagne bottles have been popped and music and lively voices fill the air.

You feast on shrimp and cream puffs, bacon-wrapped asparagus and antipasto skewers. You clink your champagne flute with Carla and the ladies from her book club as you suggest titles for their next read and you look over at the pyrotechnicians as they finish setting up for the fireworks show with ten minutes to spare.

Eren never leaves your side. 

He laces your fingers with his as he tugs you away from the railing to dance. His hands fix your arms around his neck before settling on your waist.

He's not much of a dancer, but you follow his lead in swaying to the music. Your limbs tingle with the light buzz of brut.

“Are you happy?” he asks as he presses his forehead to yours.

You smile.

“I'm never not happy when I'm with you.”

He laughs.

“I guess I'm stuck with you, then.”

“You are,” you murmur as you draw closer to his lips.

He pulls back teasingly, chuckling when you inevitably pout at his evasion.

“Easy, you'll get your kiss in a couple of minutes.”

Resting your head on his chest, you continue to sway. It's not long before someone calls out that it's a minute to midnight. 

As fresh champagne flutes are handed out to every guest, you turn around in Eren arms so you can face the fireworks show. As everyone around you excitedly counts down the last ten seconds of the year, Eren hovers over your shoulder and lifts your chin between two fingers.

“I love you,” he murmurs.

“I love you,” you murmur back.

The two of you kiss as golden lights burst in the sky.

Later that night, buzzed from champagne and with a new bottle tucked under Eren's jacket, you stumble into the pool house, giggling like teenagers who just stole from their parent's liquor cabinet. As you clumsily undress each other and exhale sweet words in the air while reconnecting your bodies one more time, you think to yourself that Eren has managed the impossible — to heal every wound and make you happy. 

The following morning, you'll find a new series of text messages where Mikasa and Jean let their friends know they're engaged, and you'll be even happier.

Two days into the new year, you part from Paradis Island. 

At the airport, as you, Eren, and Carla have a quick lunch before you leave, Eren pulls out his phone and asks you and his mom to pose for a picture together, before asking a security guard to snap a photo of the three of you.

Carla hugs you tightly as she makes you promise you'll be back soon even for just a few days. You hold onto her just as tightly, thanking her for everything, even for the things she didn't know she gifted you, and you swear this isn't the last she'll see of you.

Roughly thirty minutes later, as you look out the window, waiting for the plane to take off, Eren's hand gently envelops yours. 

You turn to smile at him and he dips forward to kiss your temple. 

“I love you.”

“I love you.”

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[moonsandmobilityaids-inactive]

The Flu Part 4

Pairings: Poly!marauders x disabled!reader Summary: You get the flu. But for someone with your immune system, the flu is never just the flu. Warnings: Flu Series Masterlist | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

You feel the cool, crisp air of the castle as you return from St. Mungo's, and it's a stark contrast to the warm, sterile environment of the hospital.

You'd spent a few days in isolation as you recovered from the flu, but despite being out of it, your body was still weak and tired from the lingering effects of the illness, and the strain it had put on your body. And even though you were now back at Hogwarts, you weren't yet ready to go back to classes.

“I want you here for a couple more days," Madam Pomfrey insists. "Just to make sure you're well enough to return."

It was frustrating; you were so close to the Gryffindor common room, yet you were still stuck under the watchful eyes of Madam Pomfrey. You roll your eyes, but ultimately nod; there would be no arguing with her, and she was technically right - your body was still weak, and you knew that your immune system would take longer to recover than most people, and that could mean another infection or worse if you went back too soon.

James, Sirius, and Remus are waiting for you when you arrive, and as soon as you're settled into bed once again, they come over. They'd been worried about you, and while they tried not to show it too much, you can see the relief in their eyes when they spot you sitting up in bed.

James is the first one to reach you, dropping down into the chair beside your bed and immediately taking your hand. His grip is almost tight enough to hurt, his hazel eyes showing just how scared he's really been.

Sirius and Remus aren't far behind James; Sirius leans against the foot of the bed, crossing his arms in an attempt to look relaxed, while Remus hangs back slightly. He gives you some space, but doesn't look away, watching you intently, the same worry etched into his face.

"I'm okay," you promise, your voice hoarse from not speaking for so long.

They don't pressure you with questions right away or fuss over you too much - they know better than to overwhelm you when you've just woken up. And yet, there's a tension in the air that suggests that while they're relieved you're awake and doing better, they aren't happy about what had happened.

"You missed out on everything," Sirius tells you after a moment of silence. "I mean, I thought I was going to fail Transfiguration without you, but then Evans gave me her notes, and she really doesn't like me, so I think we can all agree that you need to hurry up and get better."

You laugh softly, shaking your head at him. He was obviously trying to keep things light, and you were grateful for it - as much as you knew how serious this situation could have been, you couldn't handle the weight of it right now.

"Didn't realise my life would be so boring if you weren't around," James says, looking up at you. His hand is still holding onto yours, his thumb drawing patterns across your skin. "And I don't want to even think about what the common room will look like. You haven't been there to clean up our messes, after all."

"I didn't think I was that important," you admit, smiling slightly.

"You are to us," Remus points out, and you glance up at him. He seems to be studying your face, taking in every detail, as if he's searching for something.

There's a pause before he speaks again, clearly picking his words carefully. "How do you feel?"

He looks at you curiously, as if he knows that you might lie to avoid them worrying, and you hesitate for a moment, unsure of whether or not you should lie. But you'd promised yourself that you wouldn't hide anything anymore, so, despite the fact that you knew they were going to worry more because of it, you tell the truth.

"Tired," you confess. "Weak. Not ill, though."

It wasn't surprising that you felt weak; aside from being seriously ill, you hadn't eaten properly in days. Madam Pomfrey would likely force some soup down your throat later to help you regain your strength, but until then, you'd probably continue to feel fragile and shaky, as if you were made of glass.

A sigh of relief passes through them, one that only you seem to see, and their bodies relax ever so slightly. They don't completely relax, however - you're not better yet, so why would they?

****

The boys stick close to you over the next few days, visiting between classes and bringing you news of what was happening in the outside world.

James manages to sneak some food out of the Great Hall for you, insisting that you eat something because even though your appetite had returned, it hadn't increased much.

"And this is why Y/N leaves us," Sirius says with a roll of his eyes, sitting down on the end of the bed. "You're being too fussy."

You shake your head at him, taking a bite of the apple James has held up to your mouth. He's clearly trying to get you to eat more by feeding you himself - and unfortunately, it seems to be working.

"I'm just looking after her," James retorts as he pulls away slightly, but not enough so that you can take the apple from him. "It's my job as her boyfriend."

Sirius shakes his head, scoffing softly under his breath, but doesn't respond, instead choosing to tell an exaggerated story about how Lily has been reigning hell on people while you were gone, making you giggle despite yourself.

Remus hangs back, saying very little unless spoken to directly. He hovers around, keeping a careful eye on you, watching every move you make to ensure you don't push yourself too hard. You'd noticed him doing it during their first visit, and while you found it annoying, you knew he was only doing it because he cared about you. And besides, Madam Pomfrey was hovering close-by, checking your vitals once every hour or two, and she wasn't shy when it came to telling them off if they got too boisterous.

You're relieved when Madam Pomfrey allows them to stay until curfew, completely ignoring her own rule for once, despite being hesitant on whether she should let them visit you again so soon. She's reluctant to allow them to do anything except sit there and talk with you, but they don't seem to mind too much, happy to just be near you after not knowing what would happen to you for almost a week.

James is ecstatic when he hears this, going straight for your hand which is under the covers and giving it a gentle squeeze. You can't return the gesture yet, still feeling weak and fragile, like you'd break if someone touched you wrong, but he doesn't seem to mind. He brings your knuckles up to his lips and presses a soft kiss against them, keeping his eyes on yours the entire time.

"I love you," he says quietly, smiling slightly but mostly looking serious. "And I'm glad you're okay."

The words feel heavy on your tongue, but you try anyway, managing to mumble, "love you too."

He smiles properly then, pressing another quick kiss to your hand before lowering it onto your stomach again, careful to keep it covered with the blankets so you wouldn't get cold.

****

You spend a few more days in the hospital wing, slowly but surely building your strength back up so that you could return to normal classes. It was boring and annoying and you couldn't wait to get out of there, no matter how much Madam Pomfrey insisted that you needed a lot of rest to recover.

Finally, after what felt like the longest week of your life, she agreed to discharge you from her care, but only on one condition: You had to take it easy for at least another week, not overexerting yourself or getting too tired, and report any signs of a relapse immediately - she'd given you a long list of what these could be, making sure you were aware of them all before letting you leave.

James, Sirius and Remus are already there when Madam Pomfrey makes the announcement, helping you pack up the small amount of belongings you'd accumulated while staying there. James is careful to keep an eye on you as he does this, though, clearly worried about you even if you weren't going far.

Remus takes charge of pushing your wheelchair, guiding you through the familiar halls of Hogwarts on the short but very slow journey back to Gryffindor Tower. The chair moved slower than you walked normally, which wasn't very fast as it was, but neither of you mind too much, taking your time because you don't have anywhere else to be right now.

The boys' presence is comforting, providing some silent support as you transitioned back into your regular surroundings, and you can't help but feel grateful for them.

The common room is warm and familiar, the fire crackling in its place on the other side of the room. The few people who are sitting there turn to look at you when you enter, but none of them say anything, instead just giving you a small smile before turning back to their conversations or work.

You’ve never been so relieved to see a room; it felt like coming home after being away for weeks, even though it hadn't quite been that long yet, despite how it felt.

"Welcome back," Remus murmurs as he pushes you towards your accessible bedroom, through the door which James had already opened. "We're glad you're okay."

You nod slightly, unable to speak without feeling choked up. James and Sirius help you into bed once Remus moves out of the way, moving slowly so that you can take your time. Sirius is careful, more than usual, making sure you're laying down comfortably before pulling the blankets up over you properly, tucking you in as if you were a child.

"Thanks, Siri," you say quietly, and he smiles sadly at you, pressing a quick kiss to your forehead before standing up again.

"Who gets the first hug?" Sirius asks, his grey eyes sparkling with mischief as he glances between James and Remus. There's a challenge in his voice, an invitation to contest this claim.

"I believe I should," James replies without missing a beat, his brow furrowing in thought. He steps forward, coming to a stop at the foot of your bed, and sits down near your feet. "I've been the most worried, after all."

"Says who?" Sirius scoffs, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning against the doorframe, every inch the picture of casual defiance.

Remus chuckles, shaking his head as if amused by their antics. Without a word, he lowers himself onto the edge of the bed, claiming the space beside you. His arm drapes gently across your waist, drawing you toward him until your sides are pressed together. You have another side, after all.

"Alright, enough," Remus murmurs, though there's a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "We're not here to argue about who gets to cuddle her."

There's a pause as they all look at one another, then back at you. You can see the concern etched in their faces, especially James's. He's always been the most protective out of the three, and now that he has an excuse to be even more so, he seems ready to use it.

"Yeah, let's figure this out," Sirius agrees after a moment. His voice is calmer than before, and when he sits down on your other side, he's careful not to jostle you too much.

They spend the next few minutes discussing what needs to be done for you. James insists that he'll help you catch up with your schoolwork once you feel better, promising to make sure you don't fall behind. Sirius counters by saying he'll carry your books to every class, wanting to lessen any physical strain on you.

"And I'll make sure she takes breaks when needed," Remus adds quietly from beside you. "Rest is important."

The words hang in the air between them, each sentence carefully constructed to show just how much they care about you.

****

As the days pass, they prove true to their word. Each of them becomes more protective over you, watching your every move like hawks, but never in a way that feels suffocating. Instead, it's comforting, knowing that they're there, ready to lend a hand or offer support whenever you need it.

You notice it in the little things—the way James's eyes flicker to you during meals, checking if you're eating enough; the subtle tightening of Sirius's jaw when someone jostles you in the hallway, ready to step in at a moment's notice; the quiet concern etched onto Remus's face as he watches you pour over your textbooks late into the night. You've never seen them quite so protective before, their usual playful banter tinged with an undercurrent of watchfulness that wasn't there before.

"Need anything else, sweetheart?" James asks for what must be the tenth time this evening. He leans against the doorway of your bedroom, arms crossed and brow slightly furrowed—a testament to his lingering worry.

"James, really, I'm fine," you assure him, trying not to let your smile waver even though you can feel the fatigue pulling at your bones. "You don’t need to check on me every half hour."

But despite your words, James doesn't seem entirely convinced. There's a tension in his shoulders that wasn't there before, one that only eases marginally when Sirius strides in, carrying a tray laden with sandwiches and pumpkin juice.

"I thought you could use a break," Sirius says, setting the tray down beside you. His grey eyes meet yours, reflecting a warmth that belies the casual shrug of his shoulders. "Besides, Prongs was driving me mad with his hovering."

A soft laugh escapes you, followed by a grateful nod towards Sirius. But as you reach for a sandwich, your hand trembles ever so slightly—a reminder of the strength you're yet to regain. It's a small thing, barely noticeable unless you're looking for it. And they are—always watching, always ready.

Remus catches it first, his gaze sharpening as he moves closer to you. "That's enough studying for tonight, Y/N," he declares softly, closing your textbook with a gentle push. "We promised Madam Pomfrey we'd make sure you rest."

His touch is light, almost hesitant, but it carries an unspoken promise—one that echoes through the silent room and settles in your heart. A vow made between friends, binding them together in the aftermath of a scare none of them had anticipated.

Days pass, and bit by bit, you regain the strength that had once slipped through your fingers like water. Each morning greets you with a little less pain and a little more energy, the dark circles under your eyes fading in time with the autumn leaves outside your window.

Madam Pomfrey insists on regular check-ins, her gaze sharp as she monitors your progress—a testament to the severity of your condition at St Mungo's. "Your immune system took quite a hit," she explains one afternoon while conjuring a small vial of potion for you. "It'll take some time before it fully recovers."

A sense of normalcy gradually returns to your life within Hogwarts' stone walls, but it's a new kind of normal—one tinged with caution and an awareness of your limitations. You resume attending classes, mindful not to push yourself too hard under the watchful eyes of your professors.

James, Sirius, and Remus are constant shadows by your side, their presence both comforting and grounding amidst the whispers that follow you down the corridors. They carry your books, shield you from the crowd during passing periods, and make sure you're eating enough—all subtle ways they've stepped up to support you without crossing boundaries.

"Slow down, Y/N," Remus chides gently when he catches you rushing to finish a Charms essay one evening. His hand covers yours, stilling the frantic movement of your quill. "There's no need to overwork yourself."

His voice is like a balm, soothing away the stress lines etching themselves across your forehead. You let out a breath you didn't realize you'd been holding, allowing your shoulders to sag against the backrest of your chair.

"Besides," James cuts in, his tone lighter as if trying to lift the weight off your chest, "Sirius here could use some help understanding the concept of 'expanding charms.' He thinks it's all about making his ego bigger."

The corners of Sirius's mouth twitch, a hint of a smirk playing at his lips even as he feigns offence. "Oi! I heard that, Prongs."

[ochrearia]

Ochre's Certified List of Yourself Headcanons (Brainrot)

I luv this guy. I love him I love he OAUGH here's the shit banging around in my brain about him because it will just start leaking out of my ears if I don't Talk About Him

-First and foremost this guy is still a BF and no matter how mysterious and cut off he wants to act that will not change. He's still a dumbass, acting mainly on wisdom from going through traumatic experiences. He's just got a lot of walls up and cans of worms to get through if he's gonna get anywhere back to being how like a BF normally is

-"Fallen" angel. His wings WERE ripped out (by himself) and it's about as painful and traumatic as you think. So yeah he has a nasty trauma response about the scarred nubs on his back where his wings used to be. Doesn't really like people touching his upper back for that reason. Doesn't want to talk about being an angel either. Lying by omission

-Despite believing he's "Fallen" when he's technically not, very confused and a bit panicked over the fact he still has his Guardian Angel instincts. Those instincts being getting insanely possessive over whoever he's supposed to be guarding.

-He's attached to his other selves. Herself knew his instincts were still there and 'tricked' him into attaching to them all because she didn't want him to do anything irrational. And, yknow, because she believes that he deserves to be loved

-Currently trying to fight the instinct possessiveness and absolutely fucking failing to the amusement of everyone around him. He's no stranger to being clingy but now it's gone ballistic

-Because he's technically still an angel, angels tend to always run cold. So he's cold all the time even if he turns the heat up in his apartment. Weighted blanket helps somewhat. What really helps is other people's body heat, Herself being a demon meant she always ran hot and he misses that so much. Misses her just in general.

-Also because of Herself being so warm all the time it became a way for her to quickly placate him for any reason. He likes being warm. Misses his girlfriend but the sentiment is still the same. Let him be warm and he's melting

-He's aware Herself's spirit is in his microphone and you can realistically argue she's not fully "dead" but he still feels responsible for her death. Still feels like he deserved getting his wings torn off. How she died I haven't decided on but he blames himself for everything. He always takes the blame onto himself even if it doesn't make any sense to do so

-He's depressed. Like let's make this entirely clear he very much is. Traumatized and struggling to want to even stay alive, and I know what that's like because of my own experiences. Scary how sometimes you can act like everything is fine and normal but still be so ill mentally. Able to smile and laugh and get a moment or two of actually enjoying life but still being so sad (At least he's getting to have more of those moments or two with the other hims around, compared to being alone.)

-He seeks out other versions of himself to help them instead. He doesn't believe he deserves to be helped and even though he's so tired of feeling so terrible he can't get past that hurdle. So the next best thing is helping himself, but like, not HIM himself. Distracts him from the hell that is his life, and he finds out quickly he enjoys doing this

-Later along the line YS has a realization that the idea of seeking out other selves to help them might've been an underlying failsafe of his species. There was no real reason for him to do it. Geez, why does he still have all of these Guardian Angel instincts if he's supposed to be a "Fallen" angel?

-YS has RSD on steroids. He hates the second guessing he always has to do when it comes to his residual magic, because do the others actually care or is it just his magic influencing their minds to MAKE them care? False reasoning. He doesn't want to be liked for invalid reasons. He wants to be cared about because he deserves it, and a lot of the time he really doesn't think he even does. But he wants to be cared about like anyone else would. Rejection/Jokes about invalid reasons for being liked makes him upset

-I tend to skirt around it a lot but his world's Pico is just, not around. YS doesn't know if he's dead or alive, and he doubts that he'd want to reach out to him if he was. They were best friends and at a point YS did, love him, like that, but it never got anywhere. Doesn't think it was a reciprocated feeling anyways (Oh, but it might have been...) but it's far too late now anyway. Maybe he misses him

-Okay now onto the sillier things

-BOY HE SURE DOES GIVE REALLY GOOD HUGS DOESN'T HE. Maybe it is a little bit of the magic but never underestimate the addictive power of a hug from a man who hugs like he's never been given affection before and needs it desperately

-YS has every disease and by disease I mean he is touch starved and emotionally constipated and wants affection so bad but doesn't know how to ask for it. BFs are loverboys why would he be any different

-He tries to act all mysterious and shit and pretend like he's this legendary force of nature and that he knows everything. Nuh uh

-Also. Here we go again with Ochre sees a character that is a hardass or tough, decides that they need to be horrendously ticklish to balance that shit out. It's funny I swear it is. Tries to hide it but keeps getting found out and it's so over for him. I doubt they would let him know peace (Biff definitely hasn't)

-Related, let this man laugh more. Please. His laugh would definitely be rough with disuse and airy, like he doesn't remember how to laugh to begin with and that's illegal he needs to learn again... Prone to snorts because I said my other BFs would also snort if they laugh too hard and SIMILARITIES

-Love/Hate relationship with his ability to shapeshift. He will genuinely just lose control of it entirely if he gets too upset, or too flustered/embarrassed. And by lose control I mean he shrinks. Small man. Stupid idiot. The other BFs need to make a list of how to get him embarrassed because they find tiny YS hilarious

-He calls the other BFs "little" but if he's shrunk and any of them start calling him "little" he's dying. Absolutely ruined. Small YS is just the other BFs' stuffed aminal they can hug to their chest and he does jackshit to fight it

-He secretly really likes music box/lullaby songs. Like a tranquilizer dart to his brain. The other BFs find this out and oooooh, it's so easy for them to get him to fall asleep now

-Horrendous soda addict. Dude probably has empty cans he keeps forgetting to clean up just around his room. Insists he's gonna clean them or do something with them someday and just doesn't and no one can convince him to break this habit

-Hides his smile with a hand a lot of the time. If it's not a smirk or an amused tease of a smile, then it's too genuine and embarrassing for him to let people see in his head.

-It's actually really easy for the other BFs to make him wildly happy and he would rather die than admit that out loud but they can Tell. He's bad at hiding the glee from his face

-He really is a Silly Billy if he gets past all his trauma. He's a BF after all. He can be fun if he feels like he deserves to have fun. Getting hard for him to not be mischievous around the other BFs

-Hey did I say this guy is touch starved to hell? Chronic cuddler. He was already kind of cuddly with Herself before she died and it was cute how clingy he was. Still is. Just scared to let people see it.... Doesn't stop him from being one regardless

-Said he likes music box/lullaby type songs because it calms him down, singing/humming a song in that same vein is his go-to for when he doesn't know what to say and he wants to help someone feel better

-Oh please, please if you are a BF and he reached out to you, please call him your big brother, oh he loves that it makes him so happy and he deserves to be happy please call him that and mean it

-Sleep talker. Well more like sleep mumbler but same thing. He doesn't sleep all that well because of his depression and sometimes he's more-so "almost asleep" than actually asleep and he mumbles about random shit

-Loves the sound of wind. Also loves the feeling of wind, reminds him of pre-wingless times and as much as it's cold it's still a comfort. Reminds him to take a deep breath and slow down, go brainless, just live

-Wanna know an easy way to make YS get happy tears? Look him seriously in the eye and tell him you're proud of him. Can't handle it in a /vpos way

-YS loves astronomically hard. He just does. In any context or type of love he loves HARD. He will get wrapped around anyone's finger and let it happen

-Particularly fond of pineapple for some reason. He hasn't taken very good care of himself after Herself died and it's visible with how thin he is. The other BFs try to get him to eat more. He's asked what he likes and the only thing they got out of him was pineapple. Okay fruity ass

-Has a custom made hoodie given to him as a gift from the RGBFverse BFs. He's practically always wearing it now, it's soft and helps with how cold he always is and it's a gift. Means that his brothers love him. He wants to keep that sentiment with him, keeps him going (He will never say that out loud)

-Scared of lightning. Most BFs kind of seem to be scared of thunder, or both at the same time, YS is specifically scared of lightning. Doesn't care about the thunder after. Before his wings were gone, he once got lost in a lightning storm. Almost got struck, and because there was so much lightning it was hard for him to see where he was even flying, being constantly blinded by the flashes. So yeah, he does NOT like it.

-Still gets periods of phantom pain in the points of his wing scars. Pisses him off because why is there pain there's literally nothing there anymore. Always refuses to ask for comfort when this happens because he's stupid, stubborn, and doesn't want his brothers knowing about it

-Swears he doesn't need Cyber's gift of the Warmies plushie. Has been caught several times squeezing that thing to death after having put it in the microwave. Doesn't even care about the lavender scent he just wants the Warm

-Oh what's that? Bash is older than him, so realistically Bash should be the Big Brother here? Absolutely not YS will INSIST Bash is a little brother because he does not trust himself to not crumble to pieces if there was someone in an eldest position above him that would take care of him. Bash still does anyways

-Immune to getting sick. Not immune to experiencing hell on earth migraines. So he usually ends up helping take care of the morons when they get sick since he wouldn't catch what they have. And then he slinks off pitifully into a corner with the lights off when a migraine hits.

I might add more if I think of more and I definitely will but I'm stopping Here because I will never get free from this post if I keep going rn LOVE HIM

[elinor-walker]

Lighter | Elinor Walker

CW: it's just a sad character backstory with some violence closer to end

The girl with red curls looked at her mother in fear. I watched as she dropped to her knees and tried to contain her own fear, hugging her daughter to her. The woman called her father's name several times so that he would look at them just once and immediately leave the room. Elinor heard him swearing as he searched for his phone while her mother calmed both him and her. And she tried to calm herself down too. However, the girl did not feel anything. For her, this is an ordinary day, like any other. They gave her a bike, and she immediately rode it down the slope. Eli remembers the moment of the collision so clearly. Blurred vision, some discomfort in the hand and blood flowing to the fingers. Hot, it cooled down very quickly, causing unpleasant goosebumps to crawl across the skin. But the most unpleasant thing is how the parents argue at such moments. Like it's her fault. You wouldn't even call her clumsy.

Elinor has suffered from congenital analgesia since childhood. Her brain is unable to receive pain signals. She feels only slight discomfort, constraining her movements. Father's genetics played a cruel joke. His sister and great-grandfather had this disease. Maybe that's why he's so strict with his daughter?

Despite her illness, Eli grew up to be no ordinary child. Yes, in addition to constant health problems, the girl constantly brought a lot of problems with her difficult character. Stubborn and persistent. Eli was unable to make long-term friends. In rare moments of reconciliation with other children, sparks of hope flashed in the eyes of the family, disappearing after the next call from the director. Elinor missed junior school. Not even a month had passed before she was transferred to home schooling. With such a disease and disgusting behavior, the parents did not want to take any risks.

If the child’s brain cannot detect pain, then let him learn to avoid its occurrence and look for the prerequisites for possible injuries. Her older brother helped with this. The years passed, and while Wallace grew closer to his sister, parents moved further and further away from her. This upset her. It happened that she could deliberately crash into a table top or sofa, but no one else came to help. The father never tolerated this, and on top of everything else, he put pressure on the mother, trying to save her from endless empathy and regret. He loved this woman and could not watch her cry. He also hated his sister, Aunt Beatrice, who once took all the attention in the family with the same deviation. This explains why she comes to visit so rarely.

The family is quite exemplary. Father is a surgeon, mother is a lawyer. The eldest son is going to follow in his father's footsteps. At the same time, both parents are constantly on the road. When the nannies and caregivers were tired of fussing with the capricious Elinor, and it was too early to leave Wallace in charge, Aunt Beatrice came. She was that sweet auntie, so understanding and cheerful. The wrinkles only embellished this woman’s smile. She understood Elinor like no one else. During all those rare visits, the girl learned so many useful things for herself. She was so pleased by Beatrice and so unbearably angry by her father, who looked for every opportunity to avoid getting involved with her, and her aunt, who lived for years with his resentment, understood everything and tried not to interfere with her brother’s family. I can't believe they are of the same blood.

As for the brother, Wallace Walker, well… He's perfect. Exceptional in almost everything. Studies, appearance, character - he was always the center of attention wherever he found himself. Even at home. This didn't bother Elinor much. Considering how demanding his parents were, she even felt somehow sorry for him.. He is the pride of the family and must achieve everything that is expected of him. Having taught Wallace to be a nurse for Elinor, his father increasingly persuaded his son to become a doctor. In response, as he grew older, the guy began to increasingly curse his choice of life path. He liked helping the girl, but the stress from his parents was pressing more and more on his chest.

When he became an actor, Eleanor would become the director for all the films in which Wallace would star. They will be inseparable like DiCaprio and Tim Burton. Such a funny fantasy distracted her.

In such a family there is so much time for oneself. Too much. It was too early to wander through abandoned buildings, to smoke and to study for a license, but she was lucky to get acquainted with film distribution. Of all the genres, it was horror that reverberated with fervor in her chest. Feeling no pain, she jumped every time fake blood appeared on the screen or when she saw fake weapons stabbing into actors. A strange emotion struck her every time while watching it. It was impossible to take your eyes off the cruelty on screen. An emotion that is impossible to experience was shown in all colors on the faces of the actors. Is it true that the pain is so unpleasant? Is she really like that? Various questions flashed through her mind so often that they forced her to take more and more discs with interest and follow the release of new slasher films in cinemas. How far can directors go with their cruelty? How she wanted to see more. The thought that in the future she herself could participate in horror filming warmed her soul.

A strong interest in cinema prompted Eleanor to earn extra money. The girl accidentally started buying CDs with her favorite films, gradually collecting a unique collection. Not as expensive as her father's cabinet of designer folding knives, and not as unusual as her mother's constant migraines from working too much. Any job available to a teenager was hers. Pocket money from parents was still only enough for lunch. With her purchases, they would never let her buy it all, let alone spend money on it all. Blu-ray editions of her favorite films took pride of place on the shelves in her room. Informal clothes, with edgy jewelry and creepy chains, took up residence in the darkest corner of Elinor's closet. Mom bought all her clothes. Over time, the closet stopped being so pink, but wearing boring floral blouses and skirts became unbearable. The girl often asked her brother to share his belt or shirts. And this guy definitely had style and a good heart. It was he who, through swearing and quarrels, was able to get his sister her personal, small, pot-bellied television. A gift she had never been able to save up for. This was the only birthday when her parents gave her exactly what Elinor wanted, and not what they thought was necessary. Whatever the thought behind this act, it did not improve the relationship, only inclining the girl towards greater isolation.

At school.. Don’t really want to talk about this part of her life. Elinor tried to get into any sports club, but her parents and teachers categorically prevented this. Teamwork was not for her at all, and her father and mother simply did not want to deal with another set of injuries. Sport is dangerous for Elinor. She only managed to get into an elective in physical education, which was already considered a victory. Anything that prepared him for a zombie attack or an escape from some abandoned place made Eli a little happier and his life simpler. What did the opposite was relationships with peers. Attempts to make friends ended in quarrels and even fights. Her classmates avoided her for many reasons, most often absurd and far-fetched, which is why she had to constantly prove that they were wrong. This did not lead the girl to success, only to the director’s office. Every day it became more and more difficult to be in society, feeling every non-existent gaze on myself and hearing the condemning vile whisper of my own self. She had to become an outcast, smoking outside the school walls from the constant tension pressing on her chest.

Maybe she would have spent her entire school life like this, completely alone, if Samantha had not appeared.

Oh, Samantha, this is an individual case. She is gentle and playful in character, like a rose. She wasn’t popular, but she didn’t remain completely without views either. One day they crossed paths at a disc rental. The conversation started on its own; Elinor was extremely puzzled to see such a sweet girl in the horror section. Samantha turned out to be no less interested in such films. It's a pity that she liked ghosts much more than maniacs. Meeting after meeting brought them closer together until the two were sitting at the same table at lunch, discussing various nonsense. Eli considered her a gift from above and often asked if her friend was a hallucination, to which she only laughed and played along with her. Here she is, a person who finally understood her. Not literally, of course, but this girl was glad to spend time with her. A little communication on the way home - what more could you ask for?

That's how the days went by. Despite her distant parents, she has a wonderful older brother and an equally wonderful friend, as well as a collection of the best slasher films of the decade. Elinor believed that she didn’t need more; what else could she dream of? Life couldn't get any better.

Until she turned sixteen.

Wallace is graduating this year. Final and entrance exams will be the peak of parental pressure. And while it was gradually growing, as luck would have it, my brother fell ill. A purulent sore throat took the guy by surprise. It was partly his own fault, carelessly drinking ice-cold drinks at the beginning of autumn, but even the guy did not expect such a loud scandal. Elie listened quietly on the steps, clenching her hands into fists with anxiety. In a hoarse voice, Wallace tried to defend himself while the same things that were obvious to everyone were repeated to him. The father cursed louder than usual, saying how the guy was trying to retreat at the very last moment, how he wanted to disgrace himself and destroy his wonderful future… A lot of stupid things were said in his direction, but he still tried to fight back. When his brother finally left the kitchen and went to his room, he immediately noticed Elinor. He tiredly patted her on the head and walked past, knowing that she would follow him.

— Wallace? — I'll spend the night at Max's. He lives on the opposite side when looking from the school. Do you remember? — I remember. — Can you handle it? — Can I handle what? Them? Wallace, you'll be back, won't you? This question sounded unusually frightened. Wallace stopped and turned to his sister. — Of course, — he smiled, — I need a little peace and lie down. A little sleepover won't hurt anyone. His calm and tired appearance begged to be believed. Girl hugged him goodnight as tightly as she could. That night she did not sleep and perfectly heard her brother leaving.

How wrong he was.

Things only got worse. Elinor had no idea what a strong wall her brother was between her and her parents. All the anger and irritation of her family began to be dumped on her. And it wasn’t just a showdown in the kitchen with or without cause. The girl received the attention she dreamed of and was jealous of, but at what cost. The family constantly clung to clothes, to grades, to the lack of friends, to the girl’s hobbies. The habit of defending oneself with aggression played a role here too. No, she couldn't build arguments like Wallace did.

— Why were you rummaging through my room? — Young lady, you shouldn’t have secrets from your parents! — said her mother, while father flipped through the dirty notebook. It fell onto the kitchen table with a slam. — Amazing… Who told you that you would become a director? You can't even imagine how much it takes. — A little imagination and a camera? — Tell me, which of these do you have? Knowledge! Knowledge in various fields is necessary for any person, and even more so for a film director. I can count on one hand the number of school subjects you have no problems with, and even that number of fingers would be too many! — So how useful is damn drawing to you, dad? Are you making beautiful seams now? Or maybe you think that you have the right to call the patterned handles of fucking knives art?

The loud bang and swearing stopped. With a red cheek and rapid breathing, the girl looked at her mother.

— Don’t you dare swear in my house, ungrateful one. And don’t you dare contradict your father!

She didn't even listen. Ears began to ring due to fear. She staggered and immediately ran out of the house. Her legs themselves led her to a crossroads, where Elinor became exhausted, squatted down and began to cry.

The arguing in the house did not stop. Stress and pressure only grew, and Elinor herself once again hung the poster in her room, covering the dent from her fist. She was so easy to piss off. Unfortunately, Samantha also managed to fall under the hot hand. Both girls never talked about personal things, about life. Perhaps it was worth raising this topic at least sometimes. Samantha had always noticed her friend's impulsiveness and temper, but lately Elinor had started to get angry out of nowhere over little things. Any little things. It wasn't good. Every hit of the vending machine, clap, throw, and even a glance from her friend made the girl jump in place and automatically cover herself with her hands. She was so afraid of being next. One day she even dared to ask if Eli could have hurt her? To which the girl said in surprise, «No way! Samantha, why do you ask?» In response, she could only smile awkwardly and change the subject.

— Elinor, — Samantha whispered, standing in the main doors of the school.

She looked guiltily at the floor when Elinor turned to her, and then pressed one button on her mobile phone. The puzzled girl heard the notification and immediately read the incoming SMS. The way she looked at Samantha made her shrink and step back.

— Is this a joke? Samantha, are you joking? — Sorry. I really thought I could fix you, — the gentle voice quickly trembled, — but I can’t do that anymore. — I'm sorry. — Samantha, I would never… Please, just listen. — Don't come near me! Stop! Don't!

Elinor didn't even take a step in her direction. All in tears, the girl ran out of the school. Devouring the back of her ex-friend's head with her eyes, she simply couldn't believe it. Was she friends with her out of pity? Her insides twisted, how unbearably disgusting it was to realize all this. She had nowhere to put all that she was experiencing. The angry voices were so loud that the girl did not remember how she returned home. Collapsed on the bed, she wrote a message to her brother. Another one that he will answer very late. Wallace was at school, calling his parents, he definitely didn't run away, but she didn't really want to go after him in front of her friends. Even though he still had a cold, he looked more alive. Short conversations with him after class gave her hope for the best. He said he would be home by Halloween.

It's mid-October. Elinor's favorite holiday is getting closer every day. But she isolated herself. I stopped attending classes and could barely move around the house. Insomnia was disrupting her sleep patterns. Elinor wandered aimlessly through the forest at night, through abandoned buildings, and during the day she slept for a couple of hours in order to continue wasting time. There were questions about missed lessons, but she had no idea how her parents solved them. Never cared about it. Often, she would go into her brother’s room and sit on various forums at his computer. Users shared new movies, leaked posters, and shared stories, but in her current state, Elinor was flipping through completely different threads. Violent and dark discussions could last for hours. She believed that this was an alternative way to cope with her anger, to release aggression into the text, to pretend that you were writing a script for a new slasher film. And although the flame of hatred for everything and everyone gradually faded away, new lights flared up more and more often, illuminating the path to the darkest corners of Elinor’s consciousness.

Sometimes she wondered what would have happened if they had just run away? Beatrice would gladly accept them, just pack your things and quietly take a bus or taxi at night, or whatever. But parents must somehow react to the escape of their children. Her mother is a lawyer. This is just an iceberg on the way of their Titanic. It would be no problem for her to get her children back for the best benefit of the family, and that was why Elinor hated her so much. She is sure that she has figured out this plan exactly. The minor daughter, for whose custody Beatrice will be suing, is recognized as mentally ill. Someone from the hospital will believe her father's plaintive cry and testify against Elinor, with real papers and all that crap. Sick in the head child will go to a mental hospital, and a kind brother will do everything to ensure that she does not suffer. He will return and become what they wanted him to be. After all, the trial will not affect him, only Elinor, a minor. Such a development of events was not even considered. Wallace has suffered enough, she can't afford to cause him any more trouble.

The long-awaited Halloween has arrived. The day dragged on so unbearably long. Elinor constantly fell asleep for just a few minutes, only to look at the clock and close her eyes again. As the sun approached the treetops, she received a call. It was Wallace. Said he'd be back after Halloween. The girl no longer heard his worried questions about absences and well-being. My head was splitting at the seams. She was so angry about all this. She couldn't believe that he couldn't come back. I didn’t believe in another date change. He definitely ran away. No, it couldn't be that Wallace just ran away. There must be a reason why he can't be here, come home. But there was a reason. Wait, it was true. And it was so obvious and easily solved that I couldn’t even believe it.

Father slept like a rock, but mother always needed sleeping pills. At midnight, the girl gathered her things and went out into the corridor. Taking out her small folding knife from her jacket, the girl crept into her parents' bedroom. She leaned over her mother, looking at her calm face. For the last time, she assessed her actions, and then ran the blade across the woman’s throat. Her chest quickly began to twitch unevenly. Fortunately, the mother did not wake up. It was the most merciful death that her daughter could give her. The girl clutched the knife tighter as she walked around the bed. He’s so kind when he’s not frowning. Father seemed really good as long as people looked at him. It is important for him to be able to behave, he is a doctor after all. Raising the blade, the girl delivered a sharp blow to the man's neck when a heavy hand slammed into his face. She was pushed back by inertia, girl quickly straightened up to see the father rise from the bed, looking at his own child in anger. The heat went from the lip to the cheek. The taste of metal and a slight chill on the chin. He stabbed her with one of his collectible knives.

— Ungrateful monster! He walked toward her with wheezing sounds. Blood was soaking into the collar of his shirt. — How dare you!? The man swung his hand, and she was confused. Blood dripped into the eye from the eyebrow. — Your life is worthless! Do you think this was even worth anything?! Blood filled his mouth. Squeezing her throat with one hand, he wanted to hit Elinor again. The girl moved further and further, covering herself with her hands. — You ruined my family! Destroyed! YOU— She pressed herself against the wall and squeezed her eyes shut when her father raised his hand with a knife above her head. But instead of a blow the body fell face down on the floor. Elinor froze. Breathing heavily, she smiled. Laughter escaped her lips, growing stronger with each passing second as the girl slid to the floor.

Throwing on her jacket, she felt a pack of cigarettes in her pocket and exhaled. What a nice little thing, it’s definitely worth a smoke break after what happened. Before leaving, Elinor wanted to turn off the computer. She noticed a new message and curiosity took over.

[Hey. Do you want to take a walk through abandoned places now? I recognize the photos from your thread, it’s not far from me] [Sure]

The stairs almost killed her when her vision went dark. It had been a long time since Elinor had lost so much blood. Such simple and stupid thoughts were spinning in her head. Walking out the front door, She froze. Can't be.

— Elinor? Wallace stood on the porch with his duffel bag and backpack. All so sunny. He definitely planned to surprise his sister. — Sorry. Somehow I even… Are you real? — Are you serious now? Elinor did not dare to hug him, but when he came up and pressed her to him, she could not restrain herself. — What a grip! What, are you running off to celebrate? — Yes... Yes! Can you cover me? — No problem. The main thing is to be back before morning. Laughing, Wallace released his sister. As Elinor was leaving, he called out to her one last time.

—Happy Halloween, Elinor.

Elinor had no idea what a strong wall her brother was between her and her parents.

This was the only way to repay him for all his care.

Now they are free. Now he will find his happiness.

Afterword

The white light forced her to wake up. Her head was pounding terribly, and her lungs were tingling as she inhaled. Rising somewhere in the forest, the first thing Elinor did was light a cigarette. The black smoke left her body as she exhaled, her skull no longer squeezing her tiny brain in a vice. Last night felt so blurry and unclear. The thick fog around was confusing. Touching the back of her head, she noticed how the darkened hair crunched with dried blood, like a crust on a wound. Cool. It seems like there was a light snowfall last night.

All that remains is to finish smoking and decide where to go first.