#and i'm so glad you made it home after this ordeal

[the-cimmerians]

a storytime story. Not my story, it's my friend's, but she doesn't go here so I'm sharing for her. We'll call her Mara. Mara is a high-femme, lovely queer girl from a wealthy family in the southern US, but when I met her she'd been living in California for many years, chugging through her postgraduate education in Women's Studies. She rarely went home, because being at home was always a bit of a fraught experience: not unendurable (because to most heteronormative casual viewers the radiant queerness of a high-femme is pretty much indistinguishable from a quirky beauty queen waiting for the right football quarterback to sweep her off her feet), but still--not the most fun. Yet every once in a while, Mara would have a fit of 'dutiful daughter'-itis, and go home to mend some fences and keep some peace.

Mara's mother had often asked her to come with her to philanthropic events, but Mara had always said no. On this trip, however, Mara's mother had purchased a full table as an event sponsor, and she cajoled Mara into going with her. For those of you who haven't ever attended such an event, they are all different, and yet terrifyingly all the same (and I say this not as an attendee, but as an event-runner for various nonprofits; an event-runner who, fair warning, hates everything about these events, and this part of nonprofit work). There is some form of lower-calorie food (chicken or fish on greens with a very light citrus-fruit dressing is de rigeur, along with some sort of fruit-based airy parfait served in the smallest and most elegant glasses imaginable for dessert), usually an emcee (occasionally entertaining, but always inoffensive to the assembled guests), sometimes speakers (high-profile or famous women on a local or national level depending on the 'get' of the organization in question, or extremely well-spoken young people or teens for youth-serving organizations--with the youth in question being very carefully coached), and an 'ask'--the fundraising portion of the event, where the wealthy attendees compete with the rest of their friends and enemies in the social scene to be the most gracious and beneficent person in the room.

And there is gossip. So much gossip.

Poor Mara knew enough to expect some of this (mostly due to listening to me complain bitterly about how awful these events are), but there were aspects for which she was completely unprepared. Her mother had filled her sponsorship table with all of her closest friends, and the 'social hour' before the event started in earnest was a haze of white wine and a constant stream of excessively perfumed women dressed in full southern socialite chic, coming by the table to air-kiss cheeks and say how it's been ages since they've seen each other and what a darling ensemble, where on earth did you get it? and who does your hair now?--you must tell me, it's simply scrumptious--you look incredible, we really must do lunch some time soon--

...and the moment the woman or women in question moved on, the table, as a whole, in excited, urgent-whispered voices, would drag the everloving fuck out of every single lady they'd just been gushing over.

"Did you see how botched her last lift was? I hardly recognized her--I'm surprised she recognized me, with her eyes yanked back like that--" "so terrible, but she did go to the cheapest surgeon in town--husband has money troubles, you know--"

"Didn't expect to see her here, but I suppose you have to go somewhere to show off that large a collection of paste jewels--" "oh, stop, you wicked girl! But you're right, of course--and she gives herself such airs, like we don't all know--"

"Poor dear looks exhausted--apparently keeping up with her pool boy isn't easy at her age--" "Can't say that I blame her; that Carlos, have you seen him? Of course, she's hardly his only client. I've been dying for a pool, but my Henry just won't--"

"Quite a plucky little attitude for someone whose husband just left her for his twenty-two year old secretary--" "And after she put him through college and law school--I heard she's not even going to get to keep the house. She really should have sprung for a better lawyer--"

"I can't believe she still thinks she can fit into that dress, with all the weight she's packed on--" "Truly grotesque--just ghastly! Seems like last summer at the fat farm didn't do her as much good as one would have hoped--"

::giggle:: ::giggle:: ::giggle::

Mara was horrified, sitting there with a bland, polite smile frozen on her face, with her white gloves and vintage pillbox hat and charming little clutch bag, her seamed stockings and her kitten heels and her classic red lipstick and pin-curls (because in true unquenchable femme spirit, she had taken this occasion as an opportunity for dress-up, an opportunity for fun and play and sexy whimsy--a Gene-Tierney-does-pin-up-girl kind of vibe), utterly unable to see how to extricate herself from this terrible situation.

Another woman glided away from the table, coyly waving heavily-beringed fingers. "Yes, Darling," Mara's mother said, coyly waving back. "See you soon! Kiss-kiss! Love to Laurent!" She sat down and hissed to the cabal at the table: "Ha! Her husband just gave her an STD."

The woman to Mara's left leaned forward excitedly. "Really? Two-door or four-door?--wait, if it was the latest Aston Martin, I'm going to literally perish of envy--"

And that was the tipping point--Mara fled. Walked until she found a suitably divey coffee shop. Had a coffee and a slice of peach pie, and flirted with a soft Butch waitress until the world seemed less dire.

[cevansbrat0007]

Hey Brit! Did Andy survive April fools this year, sans any fake spiders in his cabinets?? 💞

Warning: Fluff, April Fool's Day Shenanigans, Minors DNI

A/N: Takes Place in my Growing Pains Series. Not beta'd, all mistakes are my own. Likes, Comments, and Reblogs appreciated.

I'm so glad you asked, especially since I didn't get around to writing a fic the way I had initially planned. Here's what happened:

As you might have guessed, April Fool's is a day that is near and dear to Baby Girl's heart. However, her loving husband, Mr. Andrew Barber, also made it known that he would like to have a spider-free day.

In fact, he actually made a point of emphasizing just how much he would prefer it.

And our girl, who is ever the doting wife, heard him loud and clear. Her poor husband did not want to be subjected to arachnids of any kind. And to be honest, she was fine with that.

But no one said anything about a possessed doll.

With her plan now in motion, she stopped by Target while out running errands to purchase this doll, along with some clear wire and some heavy-duty duct tape. Baby Girl was so filled with mischievous glee that she cackled all the way to the checkout lane.

After that, all there was left to do was wait. Although she did practice just a little. She watched a couple of tutorials and did a brief test run while the kids were out with Grandma. It took her a little bit, but once she got the hang of it she could hardly contain her excitement.

On the big day, Baby Girl knew she had to play it cool. Mostly because Andy woke-up feeling automatically suspicious, on account of the fact that he now has trust issues. All because of her.

It took a while, but by around 2:00pm in the afternoon, she had successfully lulled her Big Man into a false sense of security. So much so that he actually felt safe enough to fall asleep on the couch in his own home.

A rookie mistake.

While he was napping, our Girl quietly busted out the step stool and somehow managed to rig her demon doll to the ceiling fan without waking him. Next she grabbed the corresponding remote before retreating to her designated hiding place.

And then she called Andy's name.

It took a few tries, but the moment began to stir she turned the fan on low and waited to see his reaction. And boy, he did not disappoint.

As soon as that unholy doll began to "fly" around the room, Andy let out a positively terrified scream before trying and failing - not once, but twice - to scramble over the top of the couch before landing on his ass with a resounding thunk.

By the time their kids wandered into the room to see what all the commotion was about, it was to find their Mama laughing so hard she could hardly breathe. And once she managed to stop laughing long enough to explain her little prank to their brood, they got a kick out of it too. Junior and Rory found it especially funny.

Meanwhile, Andy was so put out by the whole ordeal that he didn't speak to his wife for the better part of an hour. Of course they made up later that night. But it doesn't change the fact that that poor man has officially had a new fear unlocked in the form of creepy ass dolls.

Thanks for the ask!

[alastxrs]

𝐌𝐲 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐞

Y/N uses He/Him pronouns.

He has no devil fruit powers.

Y/N is very strong though.

Same age as Ace.

❝𝐀𝐂𝐄!❞

Arms were wrapped around the Second Commander and a smile formed on his lips when he recognized the other man's voice, he turned around in the hug and wrapped his arms around the man.

"Y/N! I'm so happy to see you!"

The (H/C) haired man grinned and leaned down to gently kiss him on the cheek. "I'm happy you're back!" he spoke softly. "How was the mission?"

The raven-haired man was so happy his boyfriend asked and went on a ramble while the two of them made their way toward the kitchen to get something to eat, Y/N had figured his lover wanted something to eat.

Y/N was just listening to his boyfriend even while they grabbed food.

Ace's eyes sparkled with joy as he held Y/N close, relishing the warmth and comfort of his embrace. "Y/N, you have no idea how much I missed you," he said, his voice filled with genuine happiness. He felt a soft kiss on his cheek and couldn't help but grin even wider.

Ace continued to ramble on as they grabbed food, recounting every detail of the mission with animated gestures. "And you wouldn't believe the size of the waves we had to sail through! But Marco was incredible, as always. And then there was this huge battle..." His voice trailed off for a moment, a hint of sadness flickering in his eyes. "We lost some good people. But their sacrifice won’t be in vain. I promise that."

Y/N listened attentively, nodding and offering reassuring smiles as Ace spoke. He handed Ace a plate of food, knowing how much his boyfriend must be starving after such an ordeal. "I'm so proud of you, Ace," Y/N said softly, his eyes filled with admiration. "And I'm glad you're back safe. We’ll honor those we lost by living our best lives and fighting even harder. For now, let's eat and enjoy this moment together."

Ace nodded, his heart warmed by Y/N's words. "Yeah, you're right. Let's enjoy this. It's good to be home." He squeezed Y/N's hand, feeling more at peace than he had in a long time, grateful for the love and support that awaited him.

The Second Commander, the second they sat down to eat, quickly ate all of the food which didn't surprise any of the crew members.

WARNING- Master kink, Ace calling Y/N Sir, Choking

Ever since Fire Fist Ace's return, the (H/C) haired man and he have been inseparable.

They stood by each other, not wanting to be separate from each other.

This is what happened every time one of the two went on missions.

They could barely keep themselves apart.

Y/N wanted his boyfriend's warmth since his body was hotter than his and Ace wanted to be with his lover to catch up on what he had been missing.

And if the two ran off to their room for private purposes, nobody spoke a word.

Ace leaned up, kissing him softly on the lips before breaking the kiss. "Well then, Sir, I think you should show me how much you miss me, huh?" He grinned happily, beginning to remove the other man's jacket.

This was their time to be alone and he was happy about it.

Y/N kissed back needly for the shorter man's touch as he bit the bottom of his lip when he saw his jacket get taken off- the (H/C) haired man automatically pinned him against the wall kissing him again then he worked off the other's shorts. " Oh, I'll show you." He mumbled against the other's lips.

The taller man leaned into the kiss but he began to kiss the raven-haired male's neck as he then pushed the smaller onto the bed and got on top of him, the (H/C) haired male missed him so much as he refused to let him go.

Ace's widened his eyes when he fell against the mattress. Chuckling softly as he sat up some.

Pulling Y/N back in so the fireman could keep kissing his jaw like a good little brat. His palms pressed up against his chest to feel out the new ridges his boyfriend had as he looked up at him.

" Fuck I've missed you…" Ace muttered as he began to kiss the other's neck leaving a lot of hickeys on him, the smaller male began to take off the tallerd close though he would never admit that he missed the clingy brat a lot but all he could think about was his boyfriend.

The ravenette rolled his hips up against him. "Baby.." he whispered out needily. His arms around his neck as he shuddered when he felt his body become bare. So he reached down and stroked himself up. His legs rubbed against each other. Making himself look desperate on purpose.

Y/N took off all of his clothes once Ace's underwear was removed, the (H/C) haired man kissed him on the lips then he began kissing his neck again licking the dark hickeys he made. He took the other's hand away and began stroking the man's cock.

Ace whined in protest when his hand was taken away, he pressed against Y/N's hand now. Taking a deep breath as he moaned and kissed him back. Then felt the lips on his neck. Before feeling a bit bratty he sat up and rubbed against his boyfriend. Attempting to flip them.

The taller man automatically stayed on top and pinned his boyfriend's hands above his head, he kept kissing him as he kept stroking the taller male refusing to let the other brat.

"Be a good boy or I won't let you cum." He growled when he moved to the other's ear.

The ravenette struggled against the pin, though he shuddered heading the growl and slowed down some. Whimpering some more, "Sir." He pleaded. Hooking his legs around his waist and pushing against his body. Wanting to touch and fight his Master some more.

" Only good boys get to touch their Master, are you a good boy?" Y/N said as he began to thrust into Ace without a warning as he made sure he thrusted fast and harder, he wanted to make it rough.

The Fire Fist gasped, not being able to get in a word when his boyfriend thrusted. He wiggled and moaned and whined under him. Not prepared penetration. "Y-Yes Sir." He begged softly. Wanting to feel his lover. Though he wanted to see if he could push the other man.

The taller man kissed the smaller on the lips and began thrusting in the other faster, the (H/C) haired male was going to make his boyfriend feel as if he liked seeing the look on the other's face while he was fucking him. "Such a pretty boy~ too bad you're a brat." He said in the smaller's ear nibbling on the hickeys he had created.

"You- you like it.." Ace managed to get out between moans. A hue of red covering his face being called pretty. His eyes rolled back some in pleasure as his legs began to shake. He then tried again, his hands against his chest as he tried to flip them over so he could be on top of his lover.

" Baby~ you aren't wrong but I love it when you are a good boy~," Y/N said as he didn't move when his pretty lover tried to flip them since he wasn't going to let his brat try and top him yet, the male then whispered in his ear. " be a good boy and you can top me next round~" he continued to thrust in the other knowing he liked it.

Ace wanted to ride him but Y/N was making it so difficult to flip.

He scoffed, gritting his teeth as he held back his moans. Not letting his lover hear him as tears brimmed his eyes from the sheer effort of holding back the pleasure. He suddenly and masterfully stopped Y/N's thrusting to be a brat. "Let me ride." He tried to bargain with his daddy.

The (H/C) haired man put a hand to the other man's throat as he glared at him, the male didn't want to let the other have any control over who was on top and he wanted to fuck the other long enough so only he knew his name. " Baby boy." He growled as he moved his one hand to his throat.

The dark-haired man took a deep breath when a hand was on his throat. Now that was exciting. He shifted under him, eyeing his boyfriend "Sir." He said back. Sass in his voice as he lifted his hands to cup his face. A challenge. He wanted Y/N to really force him into submission. Remind him who he belonged to. "Guess it's been a while since someone tried to control me."

The (H/C) haired man squeezes the other's neck as he didn't like that Ace was being a brat because he wanted to fuck him- the taller male grabbed the other's wrists with his other hand and pinned them above the other. "Baby boy." He growled. "I'm your Master, keep being a brat and I won't give you anything."

The shorter man panted, still trying to catch his breath but when his throat was squeezed he felt his face turn red with excitement. A playful grin on his face yet he whined gently when he was threatened to not get anything. Attempting to sit up against his hand to kiss his boyfriend's lips. "Sir~" he sang against his lips. Being a tease.

Y/N kept Ace down against the bed and he began to thrust in the smaller again but faster, he kept a tight grip on the other's throat but it was enough for him to breathe, the male kissed him but pulled away after that. " Brats don't get their Master's kisses."

The Second Commander tipped his head back, shaking and moaning underneath him as his partner started to thrust again. "F-fuck.." he managed to get out, drill dribbling from his lips as the other railed into him.

He seemed to whine even more when Y/N broke their kiss. "Well, then Master's brat doesn't w-want to behave." Ace thrived on those kisses. He tugged against Y/N's hands, trying to break free but once too much pleasure came he stopped complaining and fighting. Only able to moan and let his Master use his body like the good boy he could actually be.

Y/N grinned when he noticed his brat was behaving so he kissed the smaller male while he continued to rail him faster and rougher, and the smaller decided to let go of his hands and stroke the other's cock. He was thinking of overstimulating his baby boy.

Ace shut his eyes and kissed his back. Once his wrists were free, he didn't move them for a while then wrapped them around his neck to keep his Master close. His nail dug into Y/N's back and leaving fine lines on his skin. His back arches up into him. "Fuck.." he mumbled again, precum leaking from his tip as he tried to hold back his high. Shaking from head to toe and tears brimmed his eyes. The pleasure overwhelmed the poor boy.

" Such a good boy for his Master, arent you~ I'm going to fuck you so good baby boy~," The (H/C) haired male said against his lips as he didn't stop stroking or fucking the taller boy even though he was getting close to cumming, the taller male loved seeing the tears on his face as he looked down at him. " such a pretty slut I have, you're gonna be a good whore while I fuck you more?"

Ace whined, nodding his head to what his daddy said. Tears went down his face as he moaned into him. "Y-yes Sir.." he whispered out. His entire body shook and he could hardly focus on his Master completely. He held onto him, his nails digging into his shoulders.

The shorter male would let him fuck him round and round again. Currently, he was trying to not cum until his boyfriend gave him permission.

Y/N didn't mind the marks on his back because he liked any of them due to Ace being the one who made them on him, the (H/C) haired male soon cummed inside of the other but he didn't stop thrusting in him yet. " You can cum baby~," he said, it wasn't over yet since he wanted to mark every part of the others body.

Ace shuddered feeling the cum and his body still shook with each thrust. He soon released as well and cummed in his stomach. Panting as he stared at the beautiful man in front of him. His eyes glossed slightly as he watched his lover. "Sir..." he smiled, hugging him close. Kissing his forehead happily.

" Fuck- I've missed everything about you, Ace!" Y/N said as he kissed him on the cheek but kept the dark-haired male close to him.

"I was only gone for a couple of weeks-"

"Shut up, I missed you is the thing."

[hamofjustice]

Julinemo Week, Day 4: Rest

Nemona lay awake in the dark, hair and limbs spread out like a snow angel, despite how dead tired she said she was when she went to bed. Her first night in Kitakami didn't go the way she expected at all, to say the least. Everybody had tried to shake off the weird vibes of that whole ordeal, but they could only play games in the community center to take their minds off of it for so long before Kieran and Carmine went home and left Nemona, Juliana, Arven, and Penny to sleep in their provided rooms.

Nemona jumped a little when she heard a quiet knocking on her door-- the kind that she'd probably only be expected to hear if she was already awake. She gingerly lifted herself back out of bed and made her way over, speeding up a bit when the knock repeated itself. She opened the door in such a way that she could slam it shut again if it was another super-creepy Pokemon…

… But it was just Juliana.

"H-hey… you having trouble sleeping too?" she whispered.

Nemona's apprehension melted away with a sigh and she stepped out from behind the door. "Yeah. You okay?"

"Not… really. Nightmare. I really didn't, um-- Can I stay in here for a bit?"

"Of course, Jules. Really didn't what?"

Juliana slowly stepped into the room properly, shaking a bit.

"You cold? C'mere." Nemona added before Juliana could answer, holding her arms open for a hug. She staggered a bit when Juliana very eagerly accepted it. "H-hey, easy, I'm still pretty sore…"

"Sorry. I just…" Juliana began, but needed a moment to slow down her breathing. "I just… I thought I lost you. I had to turn my back on you tonight, when we heard Arven and Penny were in trouble, and you kept running off… and… I really didn't think… I'd ever see you again… I thought you'd be gone forever, and… it'd be my fault…" she said, muffled by Nemona's pajamas.

"Oh, Julie, you poor thing… I'm kinda lucky for not having any idea what was goin' on tonight, huh?"

"Haha… maybe. Feels like tonight could've been a lot worse if that little pink weirdo wanted it to be. I just… I felt so powerless."

"Hey, that's the last thing I'd call you. You saved the day, didn'tcha? From what I hear, me and the others put up more of a fight than it did."

"Yeah, but I mean… it could've really hurt all of you. I mean, it fed you guys p-poison… poison we're hoping doesn't… do anything else…"

"Hey, you've got the little fella in your storage now, it's probably fine…"

"And… having to choose who to help… not knowing if I chose wrong… I'm sorry…"

"Sorry? Sorry for what?"

Juliana squeezed her tighter. "I should've picked you… I… left you… I don't deserve you… I'm--"

"You left me to help out other people we care about, Jules. C'mon. What if you'd gone chasing after me and I was fine, while they were getting hurt?"

"N-not helping…"

"Really, though! It… doesn't sound like you really had any good options, chica."

"Me and Kieran could've split up…"

"Pffft! When has that ever been the right answer in a horror movie, Jules? C'mon now."

Juliana smiled up at her and sniffled. "Yeah, okay, I guess…"

"I'm prouda you, and I know you have my back. Everything's good now! Give yourself a break for once."

"… Oh, I'm supposed to take that advice from Nemona of all people, huh?"

Nemona snorted. "Oh, callate! We both need to hear it sometimes. But yeah… I'm not chalkin' this up as you lettin' me down."

"Okay, okay…" Juliana relented, before burying her face back into the taller girl's shoulder. "Oh, Mona, I'm so glad you're okay…"

Nemona patted her back. "I'm sorry I put you through all that just 'cause I saw a free sample, heh! I coulda been helpin' you instead of the bad guy…"

A muffled sniffle. "Hehehe… yeah, better watch out for those from now on."

"And another thing, Julie…" Nemona began, as she brushed back Juliana's hair a bit. "If I DID think you did the wrong thing, we'd talk about it. It'd be okay."

"… Does that mean you do?"

"No, or I'd say that. You know I don't do that kinda double speak. On purpose."

Juliana hesitated a bit, then nodded. "Alright…"

"… Uh… you wanna sit down? My legs are killin' me." Nemona admitted sheepishly.

"Oh, sorry, yeah, sure."

Juliana released the hug, but Nemona was quick to put an arm back around her when they sat on the bed.

Nemona rolled her neck a bit. "I can't sleep either. Having missing time in my night, where I apparently did stuff I had no control over, is really… oogh… creepy…" Nemona said with a shiver.

"Yeah, I bet…"

"Like, I've suddenly got rare, super-strong Pokemon on my team now that I don't remember catching, and I used up a ton of supplies I'd been saving up…. and judging by how worn out I am, I was either dancing really hard, or ran a lap around Kitakami… I really got pushed beyond my limits, here…"

"Maybe a little of both. You were just THAT excited about going out and catching new Pokemon, I guess?"

"Guess so! Wish I'd just rode my Cyclizar instead for more of that, heh�� ouch."

"Kieran said he heard rumors that, uh… the curse makes people mindlessly act on their most basic desires, or something…"

"Really? I… Oof, I don't wanna think I'd just ditch you guys the second I was let loose. I don't like what that says about me at all…"

"Hmm… yeah, yeah you're right, maybe not. Maybe Pecharunt just wanted you to be as strong of a bodyguard as you could be, and thought Kommo-o was cool?"

"Heh! A Pokemon that trains Trainers. Maybe? I'll have to get to know my new Pokemon properly tomorrow, I guess. Can't wait to have a rematch with you that I actually remember properly!"

"Yeah… and we can go on some nice new adventures together, too. I get to be the one showing you around, for a change! Even if Carmine'll probably wanna be the tour guide…"

Nemona's eyes sparkled even in the dim light. "That… sounds really nice, now that you mention it! Plus all those new Pokemon I've never caught! We'd better get to sleep so we're all energized for that, heh!" she enthused, finally laying back down. "Hopefully I can walk tomorrow…"

"True. And hopefully we can sleep now… ah, as if sleeping away from home wasn't already hard enough, right?" Juliana responded, having turned to look back at her.

"Yeahhh… seriously. I think it'll be a little easier now, though."

"Definitely."

They gazed at each other for a moment before glancing away, but then… "… Hey, Jules?"

"Yeah?"

Nemona patted the bed she was borrowing. "Do you wanna stay here tonight?"

Juliana's eyes widened, but she nodded vigorously and bounced right in next to her rival-for-life without much hesitation.

"At this point we may as well hug it out for the rest of the night, right?" Nemona joked, wrapping her up close again.

"Yeah. I knew we should've gotten three rooms, but it felt weird to share after Penny and Arven were so insistent that they wouldn't."

"Heh heh, yep! Well, it's fine, it barely cost anything 'cause everybody knows you. Especially now..."

"True. Hehehe… I probably won't have any more nightmares with you helping me fight 'em."

"Heh! And… I'll feel like I never left home if I'm in my hero's arms."

Juliana's brows shot up as she grinned with apple-red cheeks. "Wow. I-- That might be the sappiest thing you've ambushed me with yet."

"… And we weren't even in public this time!"

As the girls giggled quietly, their embrace grew warmer and closer than ever despite the night they'd had, like a campfire in uncharted territory.

"G'night, Jules."

"G'night, Mona. … Love you."

"… Love you too."

[redheadspark]

For your may prompts!

16. Being ready for the next step with Oliver Wood, I miss him.

happy writing!

A/N - YAY STELLA! I love this request for our boy Oliver! How fantastic, thanks for requesting this bestie!

Present

Summary - Oliver only wanted to think of the future and what was ahead, and all you can think about was the present.

Warnings - nothing but fluff for Oliver!

"We need to go over the plan again,"

"What plan, Oli?"

"Our main plan! You know, the plan of all plans!"

"Darling, I think there has been a hiccup with that plan, clearly,"

Oliver paused as you were perched in your chair, eyeing him with a wide grin as he was looking from your eyes over to the clear evidence that was on your lower stomach.

Your pregnant stomach, shows you were due in 3 weeks.

Oliver, being the over-planner since his earlier days in Hogwarts as the Gryffindor Quidditch Captain for some years, wanted to plan out his future as a married couple. You both had decent jobs and were making decent money, especially since you two were young and recently married.

The only hiccup that did happen was the Second Wizarding War that took place at your old school, to which you both went to fight against Voldemort and the Death Eaters. It was a long and violent night, though you both made it out alive. Since Voldemort's defeat, Oliver wanted to move on and have a normal life with you. As did the rest of the world, but especially Oliver.

So now, a year after the Battle at Hogwarts and things once again calming down, you found out you were pregnant. You were shocked, but it wasn't too scandalous or a big ordeal. Oliver wanted kids, he grew up around plenty of cousins and little ones in his home and he grew attached to the thought of being a dad. You wanted kids too, though you were thinking that you were a bit farther down the lane in your marriage. But you both were excited, about having a new little one in the world to care for and to raise,

Better now than back when Voldemort was still at large.

"This little one has made a hiccup in our plan, Mr. Wood," You reminded him as he sat on the same ottoman where your feet were perched, taking one foot in hand and massaging the swollen ankles and the sole of your foot, "And although we are excited to have a little one around here very soon...I know you're anxious,"

"How can I not be?" Oliver asked in a shrug, "We're still healin' from what happened. The Weasleys still need us, they haven't been the same since..."

He paused, looking down for a second and you knew who he was talking about. You hummed.

"I know, sweetheart." You reassured him, "I think you've been doing an amazing job looking after Ginny and George, even Molly has been telling me you're amazing for helping her and the family,"

"They've been my second family for some time, apart from you," Oliver hummed with a small smile as he continued his massage on your other foot, "I'm glad we have George as the Godfather,"

"I'm quite surprised you didn't ask Harry," You tased him as he pinched your ankle in retaliation, "We need to invite him and Teddy over for dinner one of these days, after the baby comes,"

"I'd like that," Oliver agreed, you rubbing your belly and leaning back a bit in your chair, "You think we're ready for this? Being parents and having a baby around here?"

"Yes, yes I do," He replied instantly, making your smile go big as he placed your feet back on the ottoman before facing you, running his fingers up and down your leg.

"It's gonna be a huge step for us," You reminded him.

"Aye, but a step we can take together," He explained, "I keep thinkin' back to if we were doin' this during the war, and if somethin' would have happened to ya. I'm just...I'm glad we're doin' this now,"

You sat up a bit and took his hand in your own, feeling him hold your hand nice and tight. Olived love you with all of him, every ounce and every inch. Working so hard to get where you were, dealing with and surviving a War that almost ruined everything for you, it seemed as though you two could conquer anything. You would do anything, be anything, to be with Oliver and to have this happiness stay.

"Me too," You agreed as Oliver leaned over to kiss your cheek lovingly, "And I am still not convinced that we were having a daughter."

Oliver laughed, "I think we are! Didn't it say in that muggle book that if your belly's low it's a girl?"

"Since when do you read those books?" You asked him in a mocked challenging tone.

"Since I found out I'm gonna be a Da!" He replied, poking your side, "Our little gal is gonna be a flyer, like her mum, and a quidditch player, just like her Da!"

"We'll have to see, won't we? And don't start planning her life out already, Oli! Wait until she comes at least!"

"Okay okay!" He replied

He kept that promise, waiting until his daughter Poppy Wood was placed in his arms 3 weeks later.

The End

May Prompt Session

[minty-mumbles]

Heyo hope you’re having a wonderful weekend!! I was just wondering if you would be able to share some hc’s of how Wind discovered the others weren’t normal humans in your monster au? (Not sure if you’ve answered this already or not so sorry if you have!) no pressure! I love this au!! 💜

I have made a post about this before, but you inspired me to do a little bit of writing for this AU again! Sorry it took so long to answer your ask

The first section is set a few weeks after Wind met Time. (He was given a concussion and nearly mugged, but Time saved him and carried him home.)

(Read on AO3 here)

~~~

"I didn't expect to see you here, Wind."

Wind turned to look at the person addressing him, expecting to find one of his grandma's friends or someone like that. He mentally prepared himself for the ordeal of having to sit through someone making small talk and trying to pinch his cheeks. He silently cursed himself for choosing to sit in a cafe after school instead of going straight home. (He just couldn’t help himself. The Red Lion Cafe had the best coffee in town.)

Instead of his grandma’s friends, he found the familiar figure of the God who had saved him two weeks ago. Time, Granny had said his name was. 

"Uhhh," Wind said, trying to calm his racing heart. It wasn't often you were directly addressed by a God, after all. "Hi?"

Time's lips twitched as if he were hiding a smile. "I'm glad to see you again. I was worried about you after the other night. No lasting problems, I assume?"

"Uh, no." Wind agreed. "The doctor said the concussion wasn't that bad." 

The "doctor" had actually been Granny, who’d scanned him using some medical runes. (The kind she still wouldn't allow Wind to study, saying they were too advanced for him.) She’d said he'd be fine. He didn't need to tell Time that though. Better to let the man think he'd gone to an actual medical professional.

"That's good." Time gave him a satisfied look before he turned and gestured behind him. For the first time, Wind noticed a kid hovering nearby, who’d been partially hidden behind the bulk of Time’s frame.

They had cropped blond hair that almost reached their shoulders and gray eyes that were startlingly intelligent. They wore a multicolored oversized hoodie and a pair of black tights, and their hair was pushed out of their face with a green headband.

"This is Four.” Time introduced. ”They and their grandfather live in my- They're my tenants." Wind picked up on Time's swift self-correction, wondering what that was about. Four and their grandfather live in Time's- What? 

What would make a God correct himself? Wind tucked that question into the back of his head, and refocused on Four. They smiled at Wind and offered a soft wave in his direction. "Nice to meet you. I've heard only good things."

Wind snorted. "You mean you've heard how I got a concussion from a pair of muggers in an alleyway." Four shrugged, not denying it. 

Wind took a moment to let his senses explore the magic hanging in the air around him. As a Psychic, he was able to sense and manipulate the universe’s natural magic. And that meant that Wind was able to see people’s natural auras. No matter what kind of magic someone used to hide their form, a Psychic was always able to see through it by sensing their true self. 

Pointedly not looking in Time’s direction, as they didn’t want to be overwhelmed by the God’s strong aura, Wind carefully inspected Four’s aura.

Four’s aura made the taste of smoke fill Wind's mouth, and they fought down the automatic cough in response to the flavor. If they hadn’t already known Four wasn’t Hylian, that would have confirmed it. Every Psychic that was old enough to sense auras was taught how to recognize shapeshifting and glamor magic. The smoke was a dead giveaway. Four was using some sort of shapeshifting magic to hide their true form. 

Underneath the smoke, Four’s aura was smaller, somehow, than a regular Hyian’s. Not less powerful- no, quite the opposite- but it seemed to take up less room than a Hylian aura would. Streaks of red, blue, green, and purple magic danced behind Wind’s eyelids when he blinked at Four.

Wind… had no idea what they were. It was obvious they were not Hylian. (Not that Wind had expected them to be, considering they were hanging around a God.) But he had no clue what they could be otherwise. He’d never seen a magical signature like Four’s before.

Yeah... okay. Wind mentally shrugged. It wasn't like he had any room to talk. He wasn't being honest about the fact that he wasn’t Hylian, either.

Wind blinked, shaking himself out of his thoughts. "Well, It's nice to meet you anyways, Four! Do you go to Castle Town High School? That's where I go."

Four flushed a bit, looking slightly embarrassed. "Ah," they said, not meeting Wind's eyes. "I actually did online school. I graduated early and took an apprenticeship at the local blacksmiths."

As the two talked to each other, Time- who seemed pleased that the two were getting to know each other- wandered away toward the counter to order himself a drink. Four took the opportunity to pull out the chair on the other side of the small table WInd was sitting at.

"Are you still working on that, then? Are you apprenticed at Rohan’s Forge?" Wind didn't know very much about Rohan, the old Goron who ran the local forge. But he did know that Rohan was a strict teacher who very rarely took on apprentices. 

Four looked even more embarrassed, his ears flicking as he wouldn’t meet Wind’s eyes. "Um, I already finished my apprenticeship." 

Wind's jaw dropped. He would almost say it was unbelievable, to get a mastery in a craft before you’re twenty. But Wind had no idea how old Four truly was, so he couldn't say it was out of the question. 

Four’s aura was similar to a sixteen year old Hylian’s in terms of maturity, but Wind doubted Four was actually sixteen. They were probably the equivalent age for their species, but that could be hundreds of years old. Chances were they’d been alive for far longer than Wind. Ample time to get a mastery in the craft of their choosing.

Wind also noted that Four had carefully avoided saying where they’d been apprenticed.

Oh, well, he could play along. "Really? That's so cool! You must be really good at smithing then, to get a mastery so young!"

Wind left the cafe that day with Four's number in his contacts, and a promise to text each other later. Wind didn't even care if Time had orchestrated the meeting or not. Four seemed like a chill dude, even if Wind didn't know what kind of creature they were. 

~~~

Wind had become a bit of a regular at the Red Lion cafe since the day Time had introduced him to Four. The two of them had made it a habit of hanging out there after Wind got out of school, and they met up almost weekly. 

It looked like Wind got to the cafe first today, which was a bit unusual. Four was almost always the first one here. He got his coffee and claimed their usual table, a little one tucked away into the corner. Settling in to wait, Wind pulled out his physics homework. He sighed.

Wind hated physics. There was too much math involved for what was supposed to be a science class. 

After a while- long enough that he was starting to worry Four wasn’t going to show up at all- Wind was shaken out of his concentration by a commotion up the cafe’s counter. Pulling his eyes away from the problem he was trying to solve, Wind took a glance at the yelling.

There was a man leaning over the counter and shouting at the barista, his face beet red with anger. 

Wind frowned. He knew that barista. Not by name, but she was often the one who took Wind’s order, and she’d never been anything but polite. Wind doubted she’d actually done anything wrong to deserve the man’s anger.

It seemed Wind was right, as he listened for a few more moments. The man was only angry because the barista had given him an iced coffee, and not a hot one. That was it. Hardly something to be yelling about. The girl could just make him another drink, but instead of asking, the man had decided a simple mistake was worth throwing a tantrum over. 

Wind frowned, considering if he should say something. No one else was doing anything, and the barista looked like she was about to cry. But what could Wind really do? The man probably wouldn’t take him seriously. 

Wind was still considering what to do when the man suddenly fell flat on his back. Wind blinked. The man had been steady on his feet only a moment ago. Why had he fallen? 

Wind carefully scrutinized the scene, and he was probably the only one who noticed that the iced coffee the man had been holding was floating midair. It hovered for a split second, before moving slightly to the left and falling right on top of the man’s head.

Hmmm. Something was off here. 

Wind tilted his head and reached out his senses towards where the man had fallen. His suspicions were confirmed. Definitely magical interference.

The ghostly form of a teenager was hovering over the man and laughing openly at him. The boy hadn’t been there before, when Wind had been looking with just his eyes, so he was definitely magical. (If the fact that he was floating and see-through hadn’t tipped Wind off.)

The boy was floating over the flabbergasted man who was still splayed on the floor and covered in coffee. His long hair obscured his face, although Wind saw the hint of scars crawling up his neck.

This wasn’t a ghost, although he looked like one. Ghosts didn’t laugh. They didn’t pay any attention to Hylians. And they definitely couldn’t interact with the physical world.

This was a Poltergeist, a sentient spirit who lived off chaos.

Should Wind leave? He wasn’t very experienced with Poltergeists. He’d read a little bit about them, sure, but there weren’t very many of them in the city, so he’d never seen one before. 

At this point, he doubted Four was going to show up, and if the poltergeist noticed Wind could see him, he might be in trouble. He started to quietly shove his homework in his backpack.

And then- 

“Hey, sorry I’m late.”

“Four!” Wind exclaimed happily, spinning around to see the other teen standing behind him. “I thought you weren’t going to show up.”

“Yeah, sorry about that,” Four said sheepishly. “One of my friends wanted to come, and he wouldn't take no for an answer.”

“That’s fine,” Wind said, a little confused. “I don't mind meeting your friends.”

Four sighed slightly, taking a seat. “Yeah, but Wild can be a little, uh, Wild. He can be overwhelming to meet.” 

Wind snorted. “It sounds like he’s named well, then.”

Four nodded. “He is.”

“I am!” A new voice cheerfully agreed. Wind looked up, and had to suppress his startled flinch at seeing the Poltergeist standing there, now in a corporal form with his feet firmly on the ground. “Sorry, I was in the bathroom.” Wild continued and pulled over a chair from an unused table to take a seat next to Four.

Wind knew for a fact Wild hadn’t been in the bathroom. Wild had been harassing the rude customer, making him trip at least three times on his way out of the cafe, and utterly humiliating him. (Wind could still hear someone nearby muttering about how the man must have been drunk.)

Well. Wind always knew that Four would have weird friends. And it’s not like Wild’s actions had been harmful, per say, so…

“Hello, Wild, It’s nice to meet you!” 

~~~

Hyrule laughed easily. Wind figured this out soon after he met them. 

The first time Wind heard Hyrule laugh, he hadn’t even known them for ten minutes. Wild, who’d been the one to introduce Hyrule to them, had done something stupid and slightly chaotic- as was typical for the Poltergeist- and Hyurle had laughed at him. 

Their laugh sounded like sweet chiming bells. And not in the metaphorical way, where people describe someone’s laugh as “sounding like a bell” as a way to say their laugh was pretty.

Hyrule’s laugh was literally the sound of overlapping ringing bells. Wind wasn’t the least surprised when he took a peak at Hyrule’s aura and saw the familiar sight of delicate Fae magic. 

Wind had never spoken to a Fae before, but plenty of them lived in the Lost Woods. He’d seen them out of the corner of his eye while he was playing in the woods as a kid, and he’d sensed their magic. It was a little strange, he thought, that Hyrule didn’t seem to mind being in the city. Most Fae preferred nature.

Smiling, Wind lets his own giggles join Hyrule’s.

~~~

Werewolves were one of the creatures that Wind could actually identify based on their magical signature. He’d seen plenty of them around the city before, and his Granny had been sure to point them out to him. The local Werewolf packs were always easy to spot when they were out and about. 

Wind had identified Twilight based on his aura alone, but he hadn’t really needed to see Twilight’s magic to know what he was. Everything about the man and his actions screamed “Dog.” 

Not to mention, the marks on Twilight's forehead that signaled his worship of the moon goddess. That was a bit of a dead giveaway. 

(There was also that time Twilight had started chewing on the bone of cucco drumstick after he’d already picked all the meat off it. But by then, Wind was already aware that Twilight was a Werewolf, so didn’t draw attention to what the man was doing.)

~~~

A bell jingled merrily somewhere deep in the shop when Wind pushed open the door to Ravio’s Curio Shop for All Occasions. An unfamiliar voice rang out from the back of the store in response to the chime. “I’ll be out in just a moment! Feel free to look around!”

Wind shuffled awkwardly in place. He hadn’t come here to shop. He'd come to find Legend, since she’d promised to help Wind with his history project. 

Legend had mentioned before that she’d gotten a degree in art history at some point, while carefully not telling Wind exactly when she’d gotten said degree. When Wind had gotten the assignment to make a presentation about a Renaissance artist, he’d practically begged Legend to help him. The project was due on Monday, and since it was Saturday, he didn’t have a lot of time to finish it. Wind hoped she hadn’t forgotten. 

As he waited, Wind did as the voice instructed and took a look around the store. The inside of the shop was jam-packed with cluttered shelves. The one nearest to him was filled with assorted jewelry, and another was filled with an odd assortment of keys, old coins, and other small metal trinkets. Yet another shelving unit was stuffed full of books. The ancient tomes overflowed haphazardly onto the floor next to the shelf, piled in stacks that were almost taller than Wind.

The whole shop was like that, packed full of bits and bobs in only a semi-organized way.

A pleasant musty smell that reminded Wind of old secondhand bookstores filled his nose, and the wooden floor creaked under his feet as he cautiously moved into the shop to wait at the front desk. Despite the age of the building, the interior was well taken care of, clean, and dust free. It was obvious the shopkeepers took pride in their store.

Not that Wind expected anything less than that from Legend and Ravio, her business partner that Wind had yet to meet. The only thing that looked slightly out of place was a bird cage set behind the counter with a white and blue bird sitting within it, head tucked under its wind and apparently asleep.

Legend didn’t seem like the kind of person who would keep a bird in their shop. But maybe the bird was Ravio’s?

After a few moments of waiting, someone pushed aside the heavy velvet curtain that separated the back of the store from the shop floor, and came hustling out. 

The person wore a long purple dress that came down to their ankles, with a belt cinched around their waist. A blue and purple striped scarf was wrapped around their neck and tossed over their shoulder, and a pair of green rupees had been transformed into earrings that dangled from the person’s long ears. 

Their eyes were a bright unnatural green that matched the shade of the rupees that made up their earrings. If Wind didn’t know any better, he would assume the person was wearing contacts. It was just like Legend’s pastel pink eyes, Wind mused. 

It was unnatural. At least for a Hylian.

The person laid eyes on Wind, and he could see them immediately light up at the sight of a customer. “Hello!” They chirped, “My name is Ravio, and welcome to my shop!” 

Steamrolling onwards and apparently not in the least bit concerned that Wind hadn’t had the time to say anything, Ravio turned their attention towards a lamp that sat on a nearby table. It was an ugly thing, with a marbled neon green and pink pattern, and a yellow lampshade. 

“Why don’t you buy this lovely lamp?” Ravio asked. “It’s a bit old-fashioned, but it would be a conversation starter. I’m sure it would look lovely in your living room! Only a small price of ninety nine rupees!” 

Ravio’s voice had turned soft and lyrical, and Wind couldn't help but think Ravio was right. The lamp was a bit old-fashioned, but maybe Granny would like it? The green and pink pattern would go nicely with the decoration in the main sitting room of the house….

Wind blinked, and abruptly all those thoughts immediately faded away as if they’d never been there. In retrospect, they seemed ridiculous. There was no way the pink would go with their home decor, and Granny would be so mad at Wind if he spent all his allowance on an ugly lamp.

Ravio’s voice… It had put those thoughts in his head somehow. It was magic, obviously, but what kind? 

WInd knew of only one creature that held that sort of power in their voice.

Sirens.

Wind stared blankly at the Siren for a moment.

Granny had told him about them before. Weren’t Sirens supposed to live in the sea? Wind had thought so, but here one was, standing and breathing on land. 

And Ravio must be a Siren. He didn’t know of any other magical creature that could be so convincing with their voice alone. He’d have to check the library when he got home and see if they owned any books about Sirens.

Wind reached out his magical senses towards Ravio, reaching out along the natural magic of the universe until he reached Ravio’s aura. Immediately, familiarity struck him. The aura had a dreamy ephemeral quality to it that could lull Wind to sleep if he let it. Despite a few key differences- the kind you would see between individuals- it felt exactly like Legend’s aura. 

So that’s what kind of creature Legend was. 

Legend’s attachment to wearing his choker everywhere made sense now, Wind thought. He must be trying to hide his gills. 

Wind ended up staring at Ravio longer than he intended to as he took in the feeling of the Siren’s aura. It was enough that Ravio’s grin became a touch uncertain. “Uh, kid?” When Wind still didn’t say anything, Ravio sighed and muttered. “Oh well, I guess that lamp’s a bit of a lost cause. Can’t even make anyone buy it…”

Ravio quickly recovered, his voice returning to its happy tone. “We have other objects if you don’t care for lamps! Over here we have some vintage locks. Most of them don’t have their keys, but-”

“Um, no thanks.” Wind interrupted. He wasn’t trying to be rude, but Ravio was the one being rude in the first place, using his Siren song on another magical creature. Wind didn’t know a lot about sirens, but even he knew that wasn’t polite.

Not that Ravio had any way to know Wind was magical, but still. It was the principle. 

Ravio blinked at Wind with wide eyes. It took a moment for the Siren to register that Wind wasn’t affected in the slightest by his song. When they did, they squeaked. “O-oh! Sorry, sir, I didn't realize, uh...” As they stuttered, the shopkeeper turned redder and redder, flushing all the way up to the tips of their ears

When Ravio looked like they were going to run away and hide in the back of the store, Wind took pity on them. He wasn’t offended by Ravio using their song on Wind, so there wasn’t any need to make a big deal out of it.

“It’s fine.” He shrugged. “I was actually looking for Legend?” 

“Oh!” Ravio relaxed when Wind dismissed their mistake, a sliver of confidence returning to them. When they realized what Wind was saying their eyes widened. “Oh, you’re that kid she was talking about! She didn’t mention that you were…” Ravio trailed off, not knowing what magical creature Wind actually was. “Magical.” He finished lamely.

Wind shrugged, not bothering to tell Ravio that he was a psychic. “Legend doesn’t know.”

“But you know he’s a siren?” Ravio questioned. 

Wind suppressed a snort. If he hadn’t already figured it out, Ravio would’ve just given the game away. Not that there was a game, really. At least not one that his friends knew they were playing. “Not until about two minutes ago.”

Neither one of them seemed to know what else to say. Ravio was grimacing at Wind, and Wind was sure he was making a similar face back at them. 

“Let’s never speak of this to anyone.”

“Agreed. Legend is out right now, but she’ll be back soon. You can come and wait in the back for her, though.”

And just like that, the incident was mostly forgotten.

[slxsherwriter]

Find You Here

Fandom: Heartstopper 2006, Robert Englund characters

Pairings: Sheriff Richard Berger x female reader

Word Count: 2,947

Warnings: Mentions of previous robbery/assault

Author's Note: I couldn't not write for this character. The character doesn't really fall into the realm of things here, but the movie certainly does, so here is Richard. Apparently, there is something about RE characters that hit the sweet spot of my brain for writing. Gif made by me (on my phone so please excuse the cruddy quality) Tagging: @slashingdisneypasta

Flipping the closed sign to open felt like a small victory itself, even if you were a little jittery and nervous about it. The incident two weeks ago had left scars both physically, mentally, and financially. The small bakery that you ran was repaired, your body was healing physically, but your mind was taking a little to catch up. Still, you couldn't stay away forever or let them have that power over you. It was that fierce determination that had led you to open your shop in the first place and you couldn't let go of it now.

An extra set of hands in the form of your neighbor and best friend, Tony, helped in the back since you couldn't do much with one hand in a cast. Manning the counter and making the occasional cup of coffee was what you had been relegated to doing. You would have much rather been in the back to avoid the stares, murmurs, and passed along sentiments of sympathy. At least for a little while. But, it was what it was, and maybe it was just part of the process of healing post robbery and near death experience.

“Everything's gonna be fine, doll.” Tony slung an arm around your shoulders and pulled you into a side hug. “Business will boom like it did. You'll see. Know it ain’t back to normal, but it will be soon.” You smiled, returning the squeeze in a silent thanks.

“We'll get there.”

“There's that tenacious spirit.” He kissed your temple and headed to the back once the oven started to alert. “Until then, I'm your humble servant.” You rolled your eyes with a laugh. Trust him to bring a smile. If it wasn't for him, who knew when you could have reopened.

Slowly, business began to trickle through the door. Mainly, it was a few regulars that were surprised to see you open again. They passed along a few sympathies, but most were far more supportive and angry on your behalf. It actually felt good to know that you had made such an impact within the community and were so supported. A familiar routine soon overtook everything else, and the smile that rested on your lips felt more genuine and less forced. There were still moments when the door opened that your breath caught, and your hand shook just a little. A reaction that likely would take a long time to fade. If it did at all.

It was just prior to lunch time when the door opened, and you found yourself feeling a bit nervous for an entirely different reason. In walked one Sheriff Berger. You hadn't seen the man since the last meeting at your home, just a few days after you got out of the hospital. He had been kind, compassionate, and understanding throughout the entire ordeal. Check-ins throughout the recovery process had been routine, including the meeting at your home. Most of it for whatever part of the investigation that needed to be finished. But, it had also felt like there had been a genuine concern about you. He had also been the one to respond to the shop during the initial incident. If it hadn't been for him, who knew if you would have survived everything.

He pulled his hat from head and made his way to the counter, a smile appearing on his face.

“Glad to see everything back up and running. How are you feeling?” There wasn't anyone else that needed to be seen to, so you had a few minutes to be able to talk to him.

“Hi, Sheriff.” You lifted your hand in the cast. “Feeling a little bit useless but all in all, it's nice to be back to something that's almost normal.” He nodded, as if it had made the most sense in the world.

“Routine is a good thing, helpful.” You imagined that he was speaking from experience. Dealing with what he had couldn't have been easy, even if he dealt with it more often than you did. There was some sympathy there for the man, and you realized that as much as he helped, did he have someone helping him?

“How are you?” He seemed a little surprised, brow raising for a split second. Well, there was the answer to that question.

“I'm doing fine. Things will hopefully be a bit quiet for a while.” You moved to start a cup of coffee for the man. While you didn't know how he took it, you had seen him drink it. The least that you could do was provide him some free caffeine. “How much longer are you stuck in that?”

“Another three weeks. But it could be worse, at least it isn't my dominant hand. And now I have some use of my fingers.” You paused and glanced up. “How do you take your coffee?” You nearly laughed as he set his hat down and seemed unsure how to answer. It wasn't a difficult question, but maybe the anticipation of you being ready for the request had thrown him.

“Black, four sugars.” You nodded and set about adding the sugar to the steaming cup.

“On the house.” Really, it wasn't a huge loss of revenue between a cup of coffee and whatever sweet he may have wanted. “That and whatever treat you want.”

“That's not necessary.”

“Maybe not, but I want to. So, what will it be, sheriff?” There was an argument on the tip of his tongue before his shoulders dropped, and he gave in.

“How about one of those chocolate chip cookie sandwiches?”

“Hmm, good choice. I gotta admit, those are definitely a favorite.” They often sold out quick, so you made a mental note to have a batch sent over to the department as a whole. Assuming that he had to run, you packed it up so it was ready to go. He pulled out his wallet as if testing your resolve and you shook your head. A sigh came from the man before the wallet was once more tucked back into its pocket.

“Thank you. You need anything, just call.”

“Will do. Have a good rest of your day, Sheriff.”

******

He started stopping in the shop daily. Some days, you were able to talk uninterrupted for a bit while on others, his business or yours kept the interactions brief. But the routine was there. He had gone from Sheriff or Sheriff Berger to Richard at some point. You found yourself looking forward to seeing his face. Even the quick hellos and see ya tomorrows on the days when you couldn't spend time talking brightened your day. Enough so that Tony started to tease you about it. Yeah, there was a bit of an age gap, which he found hysterical. But he also encouraged you to say something and go for it, trying to give you the confidence to say anything. The worry was, did he simply see you as someone who had been saved and was a friendly face or something more? That concern gnawed away at any chance of building confidence.

It was a Thursday that he missed his usual stop in time, and you were worried. He had a dangerous job. Did he get hurt? Was he sick? A million thoughts flew through your head, leaving you more than halfway distracted for the day. Yet another thing for Tony to tease you about, but it went in one ear and out the other for the entire day. It felt silly on one hand. He was a friend at most and a polite customer, at the least. Nothing more. Even if it would have been nice. You didn't exactly have any right to call up the department and ask if he was okay. Maybe there was something planned. He didn't have to tell you.

Friday rolled around, and you found yourself a little more bothered by it than you cared to admit. If he didn't show today, you weren't sure what you would do.

The cast was finally off, and you had clearance from the doctor to resume light activities. Apparently, there was a concern that you would have a little weakness and risk hurting it by jumping right back in. That was taken as allowed to be back in the kitchen and moving carefully with heavy things. You could take sore and sorry. So, you were doing your best to focus. Slipping and hurting yourself now would be embarrassing and damage your pride.

The act of baking had always been soothing to you, even on this sort of scale with timetables and deadlines. There was a flow that you could lose yourself in until the rest of the world melted away. That nagging worry about Richard, though, kept you from falling completely into the zone. No mistakes yet, but it was frustrating, to say the least. Tony had decided to stick around and help out up front until he was sure you were one hundred percent back on your feet. You were so thankful to have him. It meant the front was handled while you found your rhythm again in the back.

Tony came back around noon, looking for you. Something you missed as you cursed, dropping the hot pan in the sink. Thankfully, it was empty. Burning yourself was a commonplace injury on the job, and after a while, you were able to ignore or work through most minor things. This? Well, it hit the tender part of your forearm that had been in the cast.

“Shit,” he laughed and moved over to you as you cursed yourself for the silly mistake. The laughing caught your attention, and you flipped him off as he pulled your arm gently towards his body. “It doesn't look that bad. You gonna treat it?”

“No, it isn't that bad. I'll put something on it later. What's up?”

“Ah, right. Well, there is someone up front requesting to see you. A certain someone in uniform…” Richard was here? Well, shit. Your head shot up, the burn forgotten about for the time being.

“What?”

“You are seriously adorable when you are crushing on someone.” You smacked at him. Brushing some flour off of your hands and your apron, it was the best that it was going to get. Oh, well. Letting out a small sigh, you double-checked that there was nothing that needed your immediate attention. Everything was cooling or had time still in the oven. “Go, there isn't anything back here that needs you. I'll make sure to take care of other customers. Go.” He shooed you up front. Richard was standing at the counter, hands in his pocket, and glancing around.

“Hey, Richard.” The greeting may have been a little too bright, but it was what it was. You were happy to see him. So what? He smiled, face brightening up as you leaned against the counter.

“Finally back there again, huh?” He propped his hip against the counter right where you were leaning. “Good thing for the product, little sad for all of us up here.” There was no denial that there was a blush. Your cheeks felt hot.

“Oh, I'm sure my customers will be far happier to have me back there and not up here, causing problems.”

“And miss that beautiful face every day? I hardly think that is the case.” By far, that was the most direct he had been, and the heat increased. Maybe Tony was right. Because right then and there? You felt like a teenager with their first crush.

“Or you'll just miss your free coffee and treats.” His smile faltered for just a second. “Missed you yesterday. Everything okay?” You watched as a hand moved from his pocket to rub at his cheek. Whatever the first comment had done seemed to be erased by the fact that you noticed he hadn't shown up yesterday.

“Yeah, everything is fine. Had to be in court most of the day. Wasn't able to get away for anything.” You made a face.

“That sounds miserable.”

“One of the least enjoyable aspects of the job but necessary.” He paused and seemed to be debating just something as his eyes wandered the little seated area that you had. “Are you doing anything tonight?” You swore you could have heard Tony made some sort of sound behind you, but you didn't dare pull your attention off of Richard.

“Didn't have any plans after closing the shop.”

“I was wondering if you would want to have dinner with me…” It took your brain a second to catch up to the fact that he had asked.

“Tonight.”

“That was the thought.”

“I would love to.” His body sagged just a little bit against the counter, and it was hard to miss the sigh that came from him.

“How long do you need to close up?” You glanced back to the kitchen and tried to think how quickly you could manage your usual closing routine. Tony was watching, and that was obvious as you saw him walk by the entrance of the kitchen. As if he could have made it any more obvious.

“I would say, depending on how busy it is, I could be done about a half hour after close.”

“So, seven could work?”

“Yeah, that would be perfect.” It would give you enough time to get home and get yourself properly cleaned up.

“Would you mind if I picked you up, or would you prefer to meet me?” A considerate question and the mark of a gentleman. Given that he knew where you lived, it wasn't like you had to give him the address.

“I don't mind at all.” His knuckles rapped against the counter, and he offered a bigger smile.

“All right. I'll see you around seven tonight then?” You nodded, fighting back a sound that would be rather embarrassing.

“I'll see you tonight.” He headed off and it was only when the door closed that you realized he hadn't gotten his coffee or his treat for the day. You could make up for that tonight, but for now, it was a countdown until seven tonight.

*********

Tony had insisted on cleaning up the little bit that was left as it ended up being far past the expected time for you to leave. He hadn't wanted you to miss getting ready for your date. Not that you needed a lot of time, but you also didn't know where you were going, and you wanted to look nice.

Cutting it close, you were just setting your shoes by the door when the knock came. A quick check told you it was the man you were expecting. Out of uniform for the first time, he looked nice dressed in a nice sweater and blazer.

“Good evening.”

“Good evening. You look lovely,” he complimented before anything else. “All ready?”

“Yep.” He offered his arm, and yours slipped through his as you stepped out the door. The evening air was cooler but not unpleasant. Leading you to his car, he opened the door and waited for you to get in before shutting it. It may have been quite a bit since you had last been on a date, but this was worlds better than what you had last experienced. Not that you expected every moment to be like this, but occasionally, it was nice to be treated by a man who had some manners.

All seated in the car, you did your best to relax despite some of the nerves bubbling in your gut.

“Where are we going?”

“Well, that would ruin the surprise, wouldn't it?” He shot a smile in your direction. “I still have a few tricks up my sleeve.” A jab at his own age? You decided to let it go for now, instead of bringing it further to the surface by pointing it out.

“It would ruin the surprise. So, I won't ask again.” You kept your tone light and teasing, not wanting him to think you were at all upset with the fact. The drive was nice, the windows down just enough to let the cool air in and not leave the car stifling hot. He asked about the rest of your day and you about his. Stories traded back and forth of various occurrences. Mundane sort of things but entirely comfortable.

It seemed you were leaving the city. If it were anyone else that you were with, you probably would be a little concerned, but with Richard, you felt safe.

The car stopped at the end of a dirt road, an opening to a small lake. The sky was clear, and the moon danced off the water, creating a gorgeous night-time atmosphere. This had been very planned out.

“Wait here, one minute.” He slipped from the car and rummaged in the truck for a moment before heading off towards the edge of the lake. The headlights were off, so you couldn't entirely make out what he was doing, but after a few moments, a fire blazed to life. Manners and thoughtfulness on top of every other quality you had found out about him so far. How was this man not taken?

He was back at the car and opening your door.

“Few tricks indeed.” He chuckled softly and once more offered his arm.

“Gotta do something to stand out a bit.” Homemade food and wine on top of a little campfire lake side. A lot of thought had gone into it. How could you not let your heart melt for the man a little more than it already had? There was no doubt that you had it bad and this would simply seal the deal.

[basketprutas]

WHAT IF? ✧*。

We were meant to be?

Characters: Businessman!Childe & fem reader

Genre: arranged marriage, angst to comfort. Set in an alternate universe

Notes: Second post, lets go (ᵔ◡ᵔ) I've been on a roll, and I've been motivated to write a lot for some reason. Let me know what you think by sending something to my inbox!

No song to recommend except speak now (Taylor's version) because that's all I played while writing this (though I do recommend Castles Crumbling)

I recently started writing again; click here to learn more about me ^-^

Being married to a successful businessman such as Tartaglia would be a dream for others, but it felt like a nightmare for you. 

You’d spent little to no time with one another, always passing by each other when the both of you would leave for work. In the same house that never felt like home.

He was dismissive of this whole ordeal; he clearly disliked the thought of an arranged marriage, but you weren’t sure if it was the idea of it or the fact that it was you who he got married to.

Were you unattractive in his eyes? Is he detested to be with someone like you? Sure he may have had a long line of women waiting for him, but you considered yourself to be at least presentable.

Now you spend your days alone, despite having everything at your grasp.

Did you really have everything, when you had a husband who refused to acknowledge you?

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

You got home one day, tired and sleepless. You had to finish up a huge deal with a potential client and you were exhausted by the time you arrived home. Seeing that Tartaglia wasn’t home, you plopped on the couch and drifted off to sleep, letting your body rest after a tiring day.

An hour later, Childe comes home to see you peacefully sleeping.

He wastes no time and grabs a blanket to drape over you.

You wake up hours later, confused with the blanket on your body.

“You should sleep some more, it’s still the evening.” Tartaglia calmly says as he goes back to his room.

You slept again, confused and wondering if he felt obligated to do that or if he genuinely cared.

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

The morning you woke up, he was the same dismissive Tartaglia that you knew. He never acknowledged what happened last night, and just went on with his routine before leaving the house.

It ate you up inside how you couldn’t understand him. Does he hate you? Is he staying for the sake of the company?And it hits you; He feels obligated to do all of this because it really is for the company.

That hurts to think about. But how can you complain when it’s as plain and simple as that?

You can’t ask for more, you’re just a marriage on paper.

Everyone just needs to believe you’re in love, you don’t actually have to be.

So why do you feel you yearn for someone so close yet so far away from you?

˗ˏˋ ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ˎˊ˗

Those thoughts crept up more and more as the weeks went by. It was clearly affecting your performance; you kept missing meetings because of how nauseated you were knowing Tartaglia was going to be in the same room as you.

You made your time out at work earlier so you don’t have to see him at the house, and made your wake-up routine earlier than his so when he wakes up you’re already out the door.

All of that just to avoid him, to avoid seeing him, and realize you were falling deeper and deeper into something you shouldn’t have.

But all of that effort was thrown off the window when both of your families set up a dinner party, forcing you and Tartaglia to be at arm’s length.

“Same as before.” Was all he said before leaving the car to enter the estate.

You know the protocols the both of you set up to make it convincing for everyone; his hands on your waist and a bright smile with champagne on the other hand.

It hurt to smile like you were his when you know you weren’t.

“So how have the both of you been?” A guest asked.

“Same old, same old. Me and Tartaglia have been busy lately. I'm just glad we have time to ourselves when we go home at the end of the day.” You reply, hugging him with your arm as you leaned in close to him.

“I’m surprised you still use Tartaglia, don’t you feel comfortable calling him Childe?” Your eyes perk up at that comment.

Shit.

“Force of habit, apologies.” You pass it off as a joke.

The night passes and you decide to stroll in the garden at the back of the estate, alone. Acting like you really were lovers took a toll on you tonight, most especially with these new-found feelings of yours that were getting harder and harder not to ignore.

As you sit on a bench, looking up at the stars, you think.

Is he getting tired of this? He’ll probably ignore me again when we go back home. I just hope no one asks us any more questions, I don’t think I can handle it.

The thoughts were overwhelming. Before you know it, little droplets of rain start to fall on you rapidly. When you stood up, you were already drenched in the very strong rain. Instead of running back to the estate, you sat back, letting the rain pour onto you as you decided to cry it all out.

Pathetic as it may be, it was helping you let out your feelings. You cried, sobbed, and didn’t care if people saw you. Either way, they wouldn’t know that you were crying because of how strong the rain was.

What you didn’t know was Childe was looking everywhere for you, out of concern because of the rain. When he saw your silhouette in the gardens, he wasted no time running up to you.

“Hey-” He called out your name as he ran. “Tartaglia?” You brushed off the tears rain from your face and looked up at him. “What are you doing here? It’s raining so hard!” He screamed so you could hear him through the pouring rain. 

You couldn’t answer right away. “Sorry.” Was all you could think of saying as he grabbed your hand to make you stand up. “You could’ve gotten sick! You don’t like getting sick, right?” 

It was true. While it would be natural for someone to hate being sick, you hated it on another level. When you would call in sick for work, you’d still have your laptop ready on your bed as you experienced a fever.

“H-how’d you know that?” You ask. “I know all kinds of stuff about you! How you hate people being late, how you like your coffee hot, how you would arrange the spices at home in alphabetical order for some reason.” He laughed, still talking loudly through the rain.

He looked beautiful. Despite the rain on his face, despite his look of concern for you, he was majestic.

“Wait, were you crying?” He asked. His hand instinctively held your cheek.

“I-I wasn’t.” You lie. “Your eyes are red.” “That’s because of the rain-” You try to excuse yourself.

“Like hell it is.” 

He quickly wrapped his arms around you. 

“Are you okay? Did something upset you tonight? Is that why you’re here in the rain?” He quickly asked those questions and you couldn’t help but let the tears fall as you stayed in his arms. “I’m sorry I’m usually more put together, I…” You couldn’t say the words. 

Maybe, for now, this short-lived affection was enough for you.

“You can tell me anything, you know that right? I’m your husband after all.” Those words caused an incredible amount of pain to you for some reason.

You breathed deeply before asking,

“Am I your wife, then?”

He looks at you, confused. “Of course you are. I know I don’t really show it, but I care for you. A lot. Contract or not, I still want to be married to you.”

One sentence was enough for all of your worries and fears to go away.

“You don't know how much those words mean to me.” I sigh and hug him tightly.

He smiles fondly and accepts the hug as the rain poured down on the both of you.

“I’m sorry. It seems like I had something to do with your current state.” He says, still holding you.

“I thought you hated me… hated this.” You finally admit.

“I could never hate this. The only thing I hated about this whole thing was how I never got to fall in love with you the right way.”

“What do you mean?”

“You-- gods you’re beautiful, you know that? And I was mesmerized by you when I would see you at gatherings. When I got the news we had to get married, I should’ve been happy. But I wasn’t. You didn’t have the chance to love me for who I was and instead, you were dragged into this contract. So I… I made sure to be distant. For your sake.” He says, clearly feeling guilty and upset about how he handled the situation.

“Clearly, that isn’t working. And I’m sorry. I thought you liked this arrangement…” His voice starts shaking. “I’m sorry too. For making it such a big deal-” “It is a big deal. No man should treat their wife this way and I learned my lesson for trying it myself. I won’t make this mistake again. Not when I finally know you feel the same for me.”

You had enough power within you to look at him in his eyes.

His mouth was trembling.

You put your arm on his cheek and smile.

“Can I finally kiss you?” You ask.

“I’ve been dying to do that.” He replies.

The two of you lean on one another, lips touching with a bright smile. Despite the ongoing rain, you savored that moment. The moment when everything clicked.

The moment when you knew you were meant to be with him.

When you pull away, the both of you smile, still holding one another. “We should probably get back now.” He laughs. “We probably should.”

He holds your hand as the both of you walk back to the estate, drenched from the rain but happy and content. 

END.

Notes: this trope has a chokehold on me and I swear I won't stop loving it ♡( ◡‿◡ ) This one is a bit longer than my first post, that's because I really wanted to flesh out the story properly with the right amount of angst and comfort. Hope I provided that!

Inbox is always open for suggestions and comments.

-Clara

[stargazer-sims]

New Arrival

Treasure was grateful that it didn't take much effort on her part for Yuri to realize something wasn't right.

Yuri quickly took all her fancy accessories off, and put her familiar, comfortable halter back on her. That made a big difference. The flower crown was pretty, but it had been starting to make her ears itch. Now that she'd felt the first nagging little pain in her belly and really understood what was happening, she was suddenly not in the mood to be tolerant of any unnecessary distractions like an itchy ear.

Treasure: I think it's time. We need to go home. It might be a while before the foal comes, but I don't want to experience any part of this out here in the open.

Yuri: Come on. Let's get you home and settled in your stall. It's going to be a long day for you, but don't worry. It'll be okay. I'll make sure you have everything you need.

It did indeed turn out to be a long day. Early morning dragged into late afternoon, and from Treasure's point of view, things just kept getting worse. She thought Yuri would be with her constantly, but he left at random intervals to do whatever it was that humans did inside their houses. He always came back again, but that was not the point. She was suffering and she hated being alone for even two seconds.

Storm was conspicuously absent, which she decided really didn't surprise her. Then again, maybe it was in his best interests not to be anywhere near her, as there seemed to be a direct correlation between her level of pain and her feelings toward Storm. The more it hurt, the more she felt she wanted to leave hoofprints on his forehead the next time she saw him.

Treasure: STORM!!! You did this to me! This is all your fault!

Yuri returned just in time. Treasure had reached a point where she was certain she wouldn't survive this ordeal, and she needed him to reassure her.

Yuri: You're doing brilliantly, Treasure. You're so strong, and you're such a brave girl. I don't think it'll be much longer. You'll get to see your beautiful baby soon.

Spot took a break from his daily session of rolling in trash to sneak in and offer some encouragement as well. Treasure never imagined that she'd welcome the presence of the stinky little goat, but she had to admit she was glad he was there. Maybe he wasn't so bad after all.

Just as the sun was beginning to set, Treasure gave birth to a handsome little colt.

Yuri: Treasure, you did it! Look at him. He's perfect.

Both Treasure and the colt were up and standing on wobbly legs, exhausted but proud, when Storm finally made his appearance with Cookie in tow.

Yuri: Storm, look at your baby. Isn't he cute? He has your eyes.

Storm: It... it's a boy?

Treasure: You took your time getting here.

Storm: Did you actually want me here?

Treasure: I did... but I didn't? I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said it like that. I'm glad you're here now.

Storm: It's okay. I deserved it. I should've been here. Besides, look what you just did. You can get away with saying whatever you want after accomplishing that, as far as I'm concerned.

Treasure: Thank you.

Storm: I should be thanking you. I mean, like... I'm really proud of you. And just look at our awesome boy. Storm Jr.

Treasure: No. We are absolutely not naming him that.

Storm: What? Why not?

Treasure: Because he's not just a copy of you. He's a combination of both of us, and he's his own unique horse. He deserves the best of everything in life, and that includes discovering who he is and being allowed to find his own way. How's he going to do that if he thinks he has to live up to your name?

Storm: Oh. I never thought of it like that. What are we going to name him, then?

Treasure: I'm too tired to think about that right now.

Storm: Maybe we can just let the humans name him. They gave us pretty great names, so I trust them.

Treasure: *nodding* Yes, I'm fine with that. I'm going to try to sleep for a while now. I'll bring our son out to meet everyone tomorrow.

Storm: I'm probably not gonna be able to sleep all night! I can hardly wait for tomorrow, so we can show him off.

Treasure: *amused* So you can show off, you mean?

Storm: Well, yeah. That too.

Treasure: Try not to stay awake all night. That'll really take the shine off all the strutting around you're going to be doing tomorrow.

Storm: Right. Gotta get my beauty sleep. Unlike you, 'cause you don't need sleep to make you beautiful. You're the most beautiful horse on the planet, and maybe in the whole universe. But like, you still need to sleep. You should definitely get as much rest as you can, and—

Treasure: Storm.

Storm: Uh... yeah?

Treasure: Good night.

For once, Storm managed to take the hint. Treasure loved him, but he could be a bit too much at times, and all she wanted right now was some peace and quiet. She wanted time to bond with her baby and recover some of her strength.

Tomorrow would be a fresh new day, in which she and her son could begin their adventures in the outside world together, but she wasn’t quite ready to share him with the world yet. Tonight, she wanted him all to herself, so she could admire him and revel in the miracle of him.

She’d already forgotten the worst of the pain, and somehow his presence felt more like magic and less like misery with each passing second.

That is your name, she thought. Magic.

She closed her eyes. She’d have to think of a way to communicate her son’s name to the humans, but that could wait until the morning.

[loveroftoomanyfandoms]

Salvation Chapter 3: Reader

Pairing: Matt Murdock x F!Reader

Summary: Reader is walking home one evening and gets attacked in an alleyway... until the Devil of Hell's Kitchen himself comes to her rescue. After passing out during the ordeal, she wakes up in the apartment of one Matthew Murdock, a kind and handsome lawyer who treats her injuries. As she and Matt get to know each other and grow closer, will someone from Reader's past tear their happiness apart?

Warnings/Tags: Angst with a Happy Ending, Attempted Sexual Assault, Past Domestic Violence, Stalking, Kidnapping (Y'all, seriously, please mind the tags)

Word Count: ~31k total

A/N: None.

Y/N hummed to herself as she bustled around her kitchen. 

She and Matt had been on several more dates over the past month that they had known each other -- attending a special performance of the NY Symphony in Central Park, taking in a poetry reading at a local bookstore, and having a quick breakfast together at one of the local diners before Matt had to go to work. After a particularly harrowing week for both of them -- Matt having just wrapped up a long and frustrating case and Y/N having had several deadlines on projects for different clients, one of whom was being difficult -- she had suggested that Matt come over for dinner and a quiet night in, to which he had readily agreed.  

She set the squash casserole she had made into the oven to bake and set the timer, then moved to her refrigerator to check on dessert. She knew that Matt liked cheesecake, so she had modified a no-bake recipe she had found online.

Luckily it appeared to be set, so she left it alone and proceeded to load the dishes she had used to mix her casserole together into the dishwasher.

She had just finished when there was a knock on her door. "Just a second!" she called out.

She wiped her hands on a dishtowel and walked to the front door. "Hey, Matt," she greeted as she opened it. "Come on in."

Matt stepped over the threshold and gave her a warm hug. "Hi, Y/N."

Y/N lingered in his embrace, tucking her face into his neck. After a few moments she stepped back and took his hand. "Here, let me give you the tour. You can leave your cane by the door if you want."

She had learned that Matt wasn't totally blind but instead saw 'a world on fire', as he had described it, and therefore was able to get acclimated to new surroundings fairly easily as long as he was able to figure out the layout of whatever space he was in. "Right here on the right is the bathroom, and down the hall here on the left is the living room. Kitchen and dining area are straight across from it to the right, and if you keep going straight you'll hit the staircase going upstairs to the 3rd floor, which are the bedrooms and my office."

Matt nodded. "Got it."

She led him into the living room. "Dinner should be ready in just a few minutes. Would you like something to drink while we wait? I've got beer, wine, water, juice, soda…"

Matt nodded. "Water is fine. Thanks."

"Okay. If you want to have a seat I'll go get it. You're right on the side of the sofa, just mind the coffee table."

Y/N walked into the kitchen and checked on the casserole, taking the aluminum foil off of the pan and switching the oven to broil to brown the top before grabbing two bottles of water from her refrigerator.

Matt looked over in her direction as she walked back into the living room. "Dinner smells amazing," he said with a smile.

"Thanks." Y/N handed Matt one of the bottles of water as she sat next to him on the sofa. "So, how was your week?"

"Long, but I'm glad we wrapped that case up. How was yours?"

"Same. Had a particularly difficult copywriting client, but I finally managed to finish up the project I was doing for them to their satisfaction." Y/N shrugged. "Won't be doing another one though, even if they asked me to."

She took a sip of her water. "So do you have to go to court often?"

Matt shook his head. "No, not unless we're working a criminal case or if civil negotiations break down, which really doesn't happen all that often. Most of the time people are happy to avoid having to go to trial, which is why all those big corporations are always so eager to settle."

Y/N nodded in understanding. "Congrats on the win, by the way."

"Thanks."

Y/N's oven timer beeped. "That'll be dinner."

Matt followed her into the kitchen. "Need help with anything?"

"Um, yeah, actually. The drawer right in front of you is where I keep my utensils. Can you grab a couple of forks then get the bottle of wine I have breathing on the counter behind you and to the right?"

Matt nodded. "Sure."

Y/N fixed them each a serving then set their plates down on the table and poured them each a glass of wine. "I'm glad we're getting to do this," she admitted as Matt sat across from her. "I've missed seeing you this week."

A broad smile spread on Matt's face. "I've missed you too."

They each took a bite of their food. "Wow, this is excellent," Matt said.

"It was my mom's recipe," Y/N explained. "I was a bit of a picky eater as a young kid, so it was her way of sneaking vegetables into my diet until I started eating them on their own." 

She laughed. "Imagine my surprise when I found out that my mom's 'baked rice dressing' frequently had squash or broccoli in it, or was made with cauliflower instead of rice altogether."

Matt grinned. "That's actually pretty clever."

They continued talking about their respective weeks while they ate, Matt filling Y/N in on the specifics he could share about his case and Y/N telling him more about the client from Hell.

"They wanted me to ghostwrite an article for a magazine publication," she explained as they finished eating, "which I usually just charge a flat rate for since something like that normally only takes me an hour or so, but they just gave me a broad topic to write about then proceeded to reject every version of the article I submitted because it 'wasn't what they asked for'."

She shook her head. "I finally asked them what it was exactly that they wanted, which turned out to be nowhere even near the original topic they gave me."

Matt grimaced. "Geez, I'm sorry about that."

"Yeah, and that's exactly why I won't be doing another job for them again." Y/N stood. "Anyway, enough about that. I made a no-bake cheesecake for dessert, so let me take care of these dishes and I'll get us each a piece."

Matt stood as well. "Here, I can help with those."

Y/N shook her head. "Oh, no, I've got them. I'm just putting them in the dishwasher. You can get the cheesecake out of the refrigerator and pour us another glass of wine though if you want. I have some Riesling in the door on the second shelf."

Matt nodded. "Okay."

Y/N set the plates in the dishwasher and gave their wine glasses a quick rinse while Matt got the wine and cheesecake out and set them on Y/N's kitchen island.

Y/N set the wine glasses in front of Matt before cutting them each a slice of cheesecake. "I was thinking that we could take these into the living room if you want."

Matt nodded. "Yeah, that sounds great. I'll bring the wine, you grab the cheesecake?"

"Yeah, sounds good." 

Y/N led him back to the living room and set the plates down before walking over to her record player. "How about some music?"

Matt set the wine bottle and glasses down on the coffee table and picked up one of the slices of cheesecake. "That sounds nice."

Y/N selected a record and put it on to softly play in the background.

Matt tilted his head. "What is that? It sounds vaguely familiar."

"It's the soundtrack to the 2005 film version of Pride and Prejudice ," Y/N replied as she took a seat next to Matt. 

Matt nodded. "I think Foggy had that movie playing one day while I was over there. He was trying to impress this librarian who was a huge Jane Austen fan so he read all of her books, then watched every film adaptation he could get his hands on so he could actually understand them."

Y/N laughed. "Let me guess… that didn't work."

Matt shook his head with a grin. "He wound up even more confused than ever and just gave up."

"Aww. So he never asked her out?"

"Oh no, he did. They went on a couple of dates but ultimately decided it wasn't going to work. I think she actually wound up moving to England or something shortly after." 

He grinned. "That wasn't the first time he'd done something like that to impress a girl though. He took Punjabi in college because the girl he was crushing on was also in the class."

Y/N laughed. "Have you ever done anything like that?"

Matt shook his head. "It's never really been necessary. Being blind has its own set of perks."

Y/N laughed. "Like what, getting to ask women to help you cross the street?"

"Things like that, or getting close so they can describe things to me like I'm also hard of hearing." A small smirk appeared on Matt's face. "Or having them hold my arm to guide me while I'm walking them home." 

Y/N grinned and shook her head. "Smooth, Murdock. Real smooth."

"It worked, didn't it?"

Y/N chuckled. "Yeah, I guess it did."

"Well, then." Matt took a bite of his cheesecake. "Oh, wow."

Y/N couldn't help but smile. "Is that a good 'wow' or a bad 'wow'? Because I hear that New Yorkers are serious about both their pizza and their cheesecake."

"Definitely a good wow." Matt took another bite. "Mmm."

Y/N took a bite of her own piece. It had definitely been a good idea to cut back on the sugar and substitute actual vanilla bean rather than use vanilla extract as the recipe had called for. "I kind of tweaked the recipe, so I wasn't 100% sure it was going to turn out okay. In hindsight I probably shouldn't have experimented since I was planning on actually serving it to someone, especially someone I actually like ."

"So…" Matt said, a small smirk appearing on his face. "You do like me."

Y/N laughed lightly even as her face heated. "Of course I like you, you dork. I wouldn't agree to keep seeing you if I didn't."

Matt grinned. "Good, because I like you too."

He paused. "This is probably going to sound really strange, but can I feel your face? It helps me more accurately picture what you look like."

"Oh, uh, yeah, sure." Y/N turned to face him. "What do you need me to do?"

"Just hold still and let me know if I'm making you feel uncomfortable. I have to get pretty close to you." Matt scooted closer and tentatively reached out towards her. "May I?"

Y/N nodded. "Yeah, go ahead."

Matt began with her forehead, trailing his fingertips over her hairline, then feeling his way down her temples and along her jawline. 

Y/N couldn't help but wonder if Matt would be as gentle tracing other parts of her. Heat flooded through her. Chill out, Y/N.

Matt paused, his head tilting to the side. "You're blushing. Everything okay?"

"Yeah," Y/N reassured him. "You can keep going."

"You sure?"

"Mmhmm. Yeah, I'm sure."

Matt continued mapping Y/N's face, swiping his thumbs across her cheeks, on the sides of and down the bridge of her nose, and eventually across her lips.

"You're beautiful," he breathed.

Y/N's face heated. "You know that just from tracing the contours of my face?"

Matt shook his head with a laugh. "I know this sounds like a line but I already knew it. This just helped me fill in the blanks." 

Y/N's face heated again. "And how did you know that?"

Matt looked adorably embarrassed. "The day you came into the office to return my coat… After you left I might have asked Foggy to describe what you look like."

Y/N grinned. "Wanted to know if you needed to make an excuse to cancel?"

Matt chuckled and shook his head again. "To me physical appearance is the least important trait in a woman -- for obvious reasons -- but Foggy said you were 'hot' so I have to admit I was curious."

"How do you know he didn't lie about what I look like?" Y/N laughed to herself and shook her head. "Oh wait, that's right. You're a good lawyer."

Matt grinned. "Now you've got it."

Y/N bit her lip. "Can I try something now? There's something I've been curious about."

Matt nodded. "Sure."

Y/N reached up and gently carded her fingers through the hair at Matt's temples, then grasped the sides of his glasses.

She paused, waiting to see if Matt would stop her, but when he didn't she removed his glasses from his face, revealing his chocolate brown eyes to her for the first time.

She sucked in a breath. "Your eyes are beautiful. Why do you hide them?"

Matt turned his head away. "The unfocused staring thing tends to freak people out."

"Not me."

Matt's brow furrowed as he turned his attention back to her. "It doesn't bother you?"

Y/N shook her head and smoothed Matt's eyebrows with her thumbs, keeping his gaze on her. "You never have to hide your eyes from me, Matt."

Matt's face filled with emotion. "Y/N…"

Y/N took a deep breath. "Can I… can I try something else?"

Matt nodded. "Anything ."

Y/N slid her hands down his face, cupping his cheeks in her palms before gently pressing her lips to his.

She leaned back slightly, Matt's breath still ghosting on her lips. "I've been wanting to do that since the first time you dropped me off at my doorstep," she confessed softly. 

"Me too," Matt whispered in reply. "I'd like to do it again, if you don't mind."

Y/N's heart fluttered. "Please."

Matt guided her lips back to his, kissing her more firmly.

Y/N melted into him, reaching up and tangling her fingers into his hair while his hands slid down to her waist. They kissed unhurriedly, taking their time exploring each other's mouths, eventually slowing the kiss down until they were barely pressing their lips together.

Matt nuzzled Y/N's nose with his and gave her one final kiss before leaning back.

Y/N let out a content sigh. "Wow."

Matt huffed out a laugh. "My thoughts exactly."

Y/N ran her fingers through Matt's hair, trying to fix it. "Sorry, I messed up your hair."

Matt shrugged. "It's okay, sweetheart. I don't mind."

Y/N grinned. "Sweetheart?"

Matt blushed. "Sorry, that just came out."

"No, it's okay, I don't mind. I like it."

Matt smiled. "So 'sweetheart' is an acceptable term of endearment?"

Y/N nodded. "Definitely." 

She took a deep breath. "Actually, you can pretty much call me anything you want, just please don't call me 'babe'. It's what Colin used to call me and it still makes my skin crawl."

Matt nodded in understanding. "Got it. What about 'baby' though?"

Y/N shrugged. "Yeah, that one's alright."

"'Honey'?"

"Yep, that one's good too."

Matt grinned. "'Pookie'?"

Y/N laughed at Matt's teasing tone. "Ok, that's stretching it a bit."

Matt took her hand in his, his expression once again becoming more serious. "What about 'my girlfriend'? Can I call you that?"

Y/N's heart fluttered. They hadn't been dating very long, but she definitely felt the spark between them and could see herself with Matt long-term. "Yeah, I think that's acceptable… As long as I can call you 'my boyfriend'."

Matt nodded, a beautiful smile on his handsome face. "Yeah, I'd like that a lot, actually."

Y/N's wall clock chimed with the time. 

Matt sighed. "I should get going though. It's getting late."

Y/N nodded. "Okay, let me walk you out."

She picked up Matt's glasses and handed them to him. "Here are your glasses back."

"Thanks."

They both stood and headed over to the front door. 

Matt put his glasses on and picked up his cane, then cupped Y/N's cheek in his hand and gave her a slow, sweet kiss. "I'll call you when I get home?" 

Y/N nodded, butterflies flitting around her stomach in the best possible way. "Okay."

"Good night, sweetheart."

Y/N smiled. "Good night, Matt."

She waited until he had gotten down the steps, smiling as she shut and locked the door behind him.

I could definitely get used to this.

[4kennels]

Seven Days A Dog

by Faedirk

GayDemon

Gay Sex Stories

Bondage

14 Jun 2023

Bondage

Handjob

Humiliation

Puppy Play

BDSM

Slave Training

———————————————-

INTRO

"It's a...errrrr... unique proposal" my lawyer timidly said as he pushed the document across the table towards me. "You'll be off the hook for all the medical bills, you won't pay a single penny"

I grabbed the papers but the legal jargon was too overwhelming to understand. "So what's the catch" I asked, too afraid to get excited because it was obvious my lawyer was being weirdly hesitant.

"Well, Mr. Torrence will drop the suit entirely, on one condition. For a period of one week you will serve has a... errr.... replacement for his English Mastiff"

It took me a moment to understand but still all I could manage to say was, "wha... what?

The lawyer looked up from the table, "he proposed that if you serve as his dog for one month he will not only forgive you, but also pay all the medical bills, which is nearing $55,000 last I checked."

I sat dumbfounded, unable to speak. I couldn't believe this is where my life has taken me; being hopelessly in debt or to serve as a dog. It was one simple mistake, one bad throw at the disc golf park. I was winding up to launch my disc as far as I could manage and when I went to release it the disc stuck on my fingers a second too long and instead of throwing it a hundred yards straight, I whipped it 90 degrees to my right, straight into Mr. Torrence's Golden Retrievers head. The dog had to be put into a medically induced coma and currently no one was sure if it would live or not. But one thing was certain, I was at fault.

Sick to my stomach, I made a decision. "Let's just fucking accept it."

———————————————

CHAPTER ONE

I arrived at Mr. Torrence's house at 11:45 am, 15 minutes before the start time on June 1st. I wasn't going to screw up the contract on day 1. He had a big house in a nice neighborhood. I was thankful for that, it wasn't a shithole. My anxiety nearly killing me, I knocked on the door. Step One to this whole ordeal being over with.

After a few gut wrenching moments the door opened and there stood the man whos dog I might have killed. He didn't look angry which helped only slightly to ease my nerves. In fact, he seemed to be in good spirits. "Michael, come on in" he said stepping aside and waving me along.

"Th..Thank you", I stammered as I entered his home.

"You're a little early so how about I give you a tour" he said closing the door behind us.

"Sure", I replied not knowing what else to say. "And sorry again about everything", I managed to add on.

He smiled a genuine smile, "thank you, the veterinarian hospital says things are starting to look up for Bailey but they still want to keep him in the coma for a little while longer."

"Good, good", I awkwardly blurted out, not knowing what to say, "I'm glad to hear that"

He proceeded to show me around the house, a bigger house than I've ever been in. When we got to the fourth bedroom of the tour, Mr Torrence told me "this will be your room." There was a dog bed and a crate and dog toys scattered around the floor. I nodded my head unable to speak as the reality of the situation continued to become realer and realer.

Mr. Torrence looked at his watch. "Well it's 12 am now so let's get started. On your hands and knees."

I did as he said, almost about to cry.

He walked over to the closet, grabbed a box and started pulling out some type of leathery fabric. Jesus christ.. Is this some type of restraints that I'm going to have to wear?

"wh...what is that?

Mr. Torrence looked down at me. "Dogs don't speak, Michael. You keep that up and the contract becomes voided.

I looked up at him and fought back the growing urge to start sobbing.

"This will help you in your roleplay. Take off your clothes and lets get you strapped in."

"I.... I don't..."

Mr. Torrence sighed, interrupting whatever plea I was about to make. He pulled out his phone. "I had a feeling this wasn't going to work out. I'll call my lawyer and we'll nix this whole agreement."

"NO" I blurted out. Tears now rolling down my cheeks. "I'll do it"

He looked at me for a few long seconds, and put his phone back into his jeans. "Ok then"

He stood there waiting for me to start the inevitable. I took off my shoes, my shirt, my socks, my pants. The undressing in front of this stranger started to arouse me slightly and I turned beat red as I fought back a growing problem in my boxers. Surely he didn't need me to take them off anyways and thankfully when I was done undressing he didn't mention them.

"Alright, down on all fours, come over here. Let's get these on you."

I walked on all fours over to him and the strange leather restraints. He got down next to me and lifted my right leg up and slid a leather sleeve over my knee and with a series of straps he bound my calf and thigh together. He then went to work on the other side of me and I prayed he couldn't notice that I had an erection. I tried my best to pretend everything was normal.

Both my legs bounded, calf to thigh, it was now impossible to stand up. He grabbed the next leather straps and went to work on my arms. Just like my legs, he slid a sleeve over my elbows that forced my arms closed. For the next 7 days, I would be walking on my knees and elbows.

"Almost done" Mr. Torrence said. He pulled out the remaining straps. These ones connected to my wrists, wrapped around my body, and fastened down to my ankles, bringing the whole suit into a perfect unbreakable union. There was simply no feasible way I could ever get out of this on my own.

"And done" Mr. Torrence exclaimed, proud of his work. "Walk around and see how it feels"

I did as commanded. It was uncomfortable and difficult to move around. And horribly unsettling.

"Good boy!"

I was beat red from the embarrassment that I was not only in this position but that I also had a boner. I did my best while walking to avoid any angles where he might catch a glimpse. I would get it under control in no time. My hope was short-lived.

"Roll over" he said.

I looked up at him and he repeated himself. "Roll. Over."

I rolled over. It was awkward and undignified but I rolled over as quickly as I could manage.

A moment of silence filled the room as I stared down at the carpet. Mr. Torrence sighed and walked out of the room. A minute later he returned with a pair of scissors. Oh no. He walked over to me and I instinctively tried to back away but it was useless. The scissors pressed against my lower back and he slid them onto the waistband of my boxers. He started cutting. I closed my eyes unwilling to let him see me struggle against an already hopeless situation. 20 seconds later the cold air was on my ass, my balls, and my dick as my boxers fell to the ground along with any remaining dignity I had left. I was completely and utterly exposed to this man, and I couldn't defeat my erection.

"This is going to be a fun week", Mr. Torrence whispered to the back of my head as he crouched down beside me. Then, suddenly, he grabbed me by the balls and held on tightly. A shot of electricity ran through my entire body and I yelped and tried to back away but his grip was too tight and I only succeeded in making myself fall over as he continued to hold onto my most vulnerable place.

"STOP IT, WHAT ARE YOU DOING IT. YOU CAN'T DO THAT! LET GO!" I blurted out hysterically from my back, my boner and new shortened limbs flailing uselessly around me. I wanted to punch him, to do something, anything, but it was hopeless.

He shushed me. "Now, now, remember? Dogs can't speak."

"I don't care! You can't.." He strengthened his grip on my balls and his point was made. I wouldn't be able to handle an even slightly tighter grip on my balls so I didn't dare attempt to talk again.

"There you go" he said in a soothing voice, relaxing his grip to a soft cupping of my balls. He started to gently caress them and I began to lose a little bit of my mind.

An unexpected moan escaped my mouth. "Ahhohhhmm..." My cock was throbbing hard, precum dripping down my painfully erect shaft.

With his other arm, he pulled a bottle of lube out of the box that my restraints were once in. My eyes widened. He wasn't, was he? He flicked open the cap and poured some gently down my cock in a perfect line.

"I think you'll find you'll enjoy this.", he said as his hand grabbed onto my cock and begin stroking, and spinning, and massaging. I completely lost my mind. Any thought other than the pleasure of what was happening to my rock hard boner simply didn't exist in my head.

More moans began bursting out of my throat. "AUUHHH AUHHHHH MMMMMMHHH"

Mr. Torrence decided to pick up the pace and begin stroking harder and faster than I would ever think of doing to myself. I knew that meant trouble and I didn't want whatever was happening to me to end yet.

"No not yet" I squeaked out in between a few moans, forgetting not to talk.

He placed his other hand over my mouth and held my head down to the ground as he continued his work with his other hand on my cock, going even faster now.

I felt the orgasm coming, and with the tempo entirely out of my control, when it came it came faster and harder than any orgasm I had ever had in my entire life. I was screaming into his hand but my screams were only muffled moans of ecstasy. My entire body shaking violently in my restraints. Ropes of cum I didn't know I was capable of making burst out of me one after another. He must have aimed my cock towards my head because a few strands landed across my neck and pools of cum painted my chest. I layed there panting, exhausted, covered in my own cum while Mr. Torrence gently came to stop on my depleted cock. After a few more excruciatingly slow strokes, he finally let go of me.

He stood up and looked down at me in my pathetically drained state.

"This should be a fun week" he said before turning around and walking out of the room, shutting the towering door behind him. I had never noticed just how high up door knobs were before.

[sir-sunawani]

Quicksand

Fem Reader x Sir Crocodile

20 Chapters - 46,838 words

Read it on Ao3 or Wattpad

CW: Language, violence, blood, moral ambiguity, murder, sexual themes and situations, yandere, angst with a happy ending, a referenced instance of physical abuse. 18+ only

Chapter 16: Feather Light

After the meeting the investors filed out of the office. The meeting had gone well, despite your concerns, and you were glad that Buggy filled the role of support for you. It was better if the investors saw you as the voice of authority and reason, otherwise they would go past you and deal with Buggy directly no matter what. Which would defeat the purpose of your role in dealing with them.

In addition to Buggy's support, Doflamingo spoke highly of you as well, even if he did bring up Rain Dinners and Crocodile at the same time, but it gave you credibility with the other investors.

When everyone else was gone, Doflamingo was still seated, smiling at you. You turned to Buggy and asked if you could borrow his office for a moment, and after making sure you were sure, he left.

You kept your distance from the Warlord, but you looked over at him.

"What do you-," you pause and shake your head. "Thank you for your... gift."

"It was quite the ordeal to get my hands on that phone," He admits, staying in the chair with that same terrible smile. "The look on his face though, when I visited him was-."

"I'm not going to talk about... that." You say, anger twisting your face for a moment before you composed yourself. "Right now, we're talking about you and me, Mr. Donquixote. Specifically, why I'm contingent on your investment in this company."

"You're a superb employee." He says, his grin almost seeming to grow. "So much so that you were amply rewarded with a meal at the most exclusive restaurant within 100 kilometers of your home, Miss (Y/N)."

"You know exactly why we were there." You roll your eyes in frustration. "What do you want?"

"Oh, we were having such a delightful conversation," his smile falters a little, but not by much and not for long as he stands up. "If it is straight to the point then, so be it. I want to get to know you, Miss (Y/N)."

"Absolutely not." You take a step back involuntarily, "I already know more about you than I care to, and I no intention to-." You couldn't move. "I ... what's happening?"

Doflamingo's fingers moved, and then so did you. The realization made your blood run cold.

He was a devil fruit user, and whatever it was, it allowed him to control your body.

"Twice now you've amused me unintentionally, Miss (Y/N)." He says with a soft chuckle, closing the distance between the two of you, and covering your mouth with his hand as he leans down to be more face to face with you. "Scream and I puppeteer your precious boss off the roof of this building, are we clear?"

You nod, surprised to find you could.

"You understand your position then, Miss (Y/N)?" He asks, removing his hand from your mouth and caressing your cheek.

"I have a pretty good idea, yeah." You admit, trying not to flinch at the touch that sends a cold chill through you.

"This Friday, I believe you will find yourself with time to spare," he says, holding out a card. "Be here, at the time indicated. Dress comfortably." He leans forward, speaking low into your ear. "Do anything to displease me, and you will not be the target of my displeasure."

You swallow hard as he tucks the card into the collar of your blouse.

"If something outside my control happens, how can I tell you?" You ask after he takes a step back. "A wreck, an act of the gods, that sort of thing."

"... My number is on the card," he says after a moment's silence. "Miss (Y/N), you should do everything within your power to make sure you can attend."

"I will- I know, I just..." You look up at him before looking away. "I'm not feeling much like luck's on my side lately."

That unsettling chuckle shifts lazily between you again. "Fair enough. I will ensure you find your way to that appointment safely." He promises you as his fingers move and your body is willed where he wishes. He lifts you up and sets you on Buggy's desk, sliding his arm around your waist and he takes a picture of the two of you. "The more you indulge me, my dear, the more of this will remain between you and I."

Your eyes go wide as the picture clicks your situation into place, the image of Crocodile against the concrete blocks comes to mind. That had been a cruel gift for you, and this could be a similar gift for him.

Even if he had decided to move on from his feelings, there was no way for you to know it. You couldn't tell him your decision any more than he could tell you his. It didn't matter what your feelings were, the fact of the matter was that the only shared point of contact the two of you had was Doflamingo, and the bastard could frame what he knew in a way that would work to his benefit.

You wanted to move on, you didn't want to hurt Crocodile in the process. At least no more than you could help. You could hope he harbored no more feelings for you, but the possibility that you were both still precious to each other was like a weight on your heart right now.

"I understand." You will the words to come forth, but there's no much energy behind them.

"As long as we have an understanding." He purrs, patting your shoulder gently before he walks away.

You feel your body relax as Doflamingo leaves the office, and after a moment you slide off the desk. You pull the card from your blouse and aren't surprised to see the card is for Baratie's. A time of 7pm is written on the front and the back has a phone number, one that you unfortunately recognize.

It had been saved on your phone for the last year under the capitalized heading of "Do Not Answer" ever since Doflamingo had called you a year ago.

. . . . . .

You had talked to Buggy afterward and told him pretty much everything. You didn't go into the details of the relationship you had with Crocodile – other than the fact that you had been dating - but you wanted Buggy to at least be in your corner entirely if you were going to have to deal with Doflamingo. Your boss' jaw had been practically on the floor for the entire conversation and you were a little surprised he hadn't sorted out that you were dating the CEO before now.

Buggy didn't seem like the sharpest knife in the box, but he was surprisingly good at picking up on things. Maybe he had simply put on blinders when it came to Crocodile – better to not know too much in that case. It could be it just wasn't something Buggy thought about himself. In all the time you'd known him you hadn't known him to have anyone on his arm, or even talk about it, and Buggy tended to talk about everything.

Friday you had taken half a day off work, and a couple of hours before you were due at Baratie's you were standing in your room, looking at the clothes in your closet.

It was requested that you dress comfortably. You weren't sure what exactly comfortably meant to Doflamingo, but comfortably to you meant slacks and a blouse. You were going to Baratie's so you couldn't wear jeans and a t-shirt, but you weren't going to wear the dress you had worn before. Even if you thought that was exactly what he wanted you to do.

It was a fine line you needed to walk, to maintain your dignity, and also to not displease Doflamingo to the point that he took his frustrations out on anyone else. Be it Crocodile, or Buggy, or even Alvida, as you were quite sure he was aware of all of your social connections at this point.

You realized you had a decent compromise available to you and pulled out a simple black dress. The neckline went down a bit further than you'd like – at least while being in Doflamingo's presence, but the cap-sleeved shoulders and the just-past-your-knees skirt length left the dress feeling cute and not sexy. A simple pearl necklace and some single pearl post earrings would make a bun hair style pull everything together in a more business than pleasure look.

This way you'd be dressed comfortably, and in a dress, and absolutely no miscommunications about your thoughts on the matter. With luck, it wouldn't be skirting on the wrong side of the line, but it's not like he bothered to buy you something, and quite frankly you were relieved about that. So this much should be fine.

With an hour to make it to the restaurant, you left your apartment. When you got downstairs there was a limo at the end of the walkway. You started to move around it and an older gentleman that was standing by the rear door cleared his throat. You tilted your head, looking at him curiously.

"The Young Master requested that I ensure you arrive at Baratie's safely, Miss (L/N)." He said, opening the back door of the limo for you and stepping aside.

Delightful.

"... Very well. It seems I am in your care, Mister?"

"You may call me Mr. G." He offers as you step inside the thankfully empty limo.

"Thank you, Mr. G."

The perk of the ride to the restaurant was that you didn't have to think about the fact that you were going to the restaurant. You didn't have to consider 6pm Friday evening traffic. Your nerves weren't frazzled by worrying about each passing minute no matter if the traffic was good or bad. You arrival was in the hands of one of his own men, and by association, could not be your fault no matter what.

The only thing that did bother you, was you currently had no easy way home. You had plenty of options available to you, but you were quite sure that you were going to have unfortunate company riding with you on the way back to your apartment.

When you arrived, you were surprised to see Doflamingo standing outside the restaurant. He was dressed plainly, or plainly for how you knew he preferred to dress. He was in a suit, but it was nothing special – muted colors, good fit, and his trademark glasses. He looked – as one expected an ex-model to look – good.

He looked more like the CEO of a pharmaceutical company than he did a model or a Warlord. It was as close to being undercover as you could've imagined him managing.

"Ah, Miss (Y/N), pushing boundaries already, I see." He muses, offering his elbow as you walked over to him.

"Hardly." You reply, accepting the offered arm as a means of keeping the peace. "If you required I dress a specific way, then you should've provided better parameters. I am dressed comfortably, and I'm dressed accordingly for Baratie's."

You got nothing more than a soft chuckle as a response as the two of you were seated. Doflamingo had taken over ordering for the both of you, and you focused on maintaining neutrality. You didn't want to give him anything to use to get under your skin with, and so going with the flow was the best bet. At least to a point.

"I must admit, Miss (Y/N), you're taking this more calmly than I had expected." He says after the waiter had left.

"It is what it is, I suppose." Your brows knit slightly, and you manage to look at him. "I just don't get why."

"You have theories, I'm sure." He leans back and motions toward you. "Share them, don't hold back. I'd rather ripe honesty than rotten platitudes."

"You called me a year ago, and we have a minute-long conversation, during which you admitted to having cloned my phone. Nothing for a year and then, just as my role in Buggy's organization changes, you... gift me... my old phone. The one that was taken from me for my protection. I have no idea how long you had it, or what you've done to it, I don't even know if it's safe for me to keep it." You shake your head and shrug. "I can't understand why you'd be focused on me, I'm nobody. Sure," you add before he can interject. "I had a relationship that made me someone to somebody, but that's been severed, and if your goal was to simply torment him, you could do so without wasting your time with me."

You sigh and take a sip of wine. "Either you miss him and are trying to while away the hours by tormenting me for your own amusement, or..." You make a face and shake your head. "No – It's not that."

"Mm, don't hold back on me now, Miss (Y/N)." Doflamingo says, and there's an edge to his bemused chuckle that makes you nervous.

"... Or you think you like me, and you're trying to sort that out." It sounded utterly laughable to say it out loud, but there's a silence that settles between the two of you that makes you uncomfortable. "And... that's not possible." You add after you can't take the silence any longer.

"Oh? You seem so sure about that." He leans forward, catching your gaze as he looks over his glasses.

You look away. "I am, I just don't know if I could say why without risk."

"Honesty may not always be pleasant, Miss (Y/N), but I won't punish you for it."

"There's no room for someone else in your heart, Mr. Donquixote." You say after a moment's consideration. "At best I'm a distraction, at worst you see me as a discarded toy and you're curious why he kept me around."

His smile freezes on his face for a moment, and you're unsure if he's shocked, angry, or simply unable to smile any wider than he already is. After a few moments of more uncomfortable silence, he speaks.

"What fascinates me, is how you reacted to his incarceration." Doflamingo says, a lazy smile on his face as he leans back in his chair. "You weren't surprised by the title he held."

You shake your head. "I knew what he was before I started working for him." You admit.

"And me?"

You nod, not wanting to put it to words. No matter what answer you gave – honest or not – it would've been entertaining for Doflamingo.

"Fufufufu, interesting." He leans forward as your meal is served. "You know all of us?"

"By name, at least." You answer evenly.

"How unusual." He muses for a moment, taking a bite or two of food before continuing. "Let's talk terms, Miss (Y/N)."

"Terms?"

He nods. "I do wish to get to know you. We'll say it's to sate my curiosity for now. You quite despise me, and I would prefer not to simply break you and toss you aside."

You were acutely aware of your position before now but hearing him put it so bluntly made your whole body go cold for a moment.

"Then..." You pause a moment to make sure he's done before you continue. "Don't let this effect my job and don't force me into anything physical."

He was silent for a moment before he smiles. "Don't lie to me, and don't try to worm out of dates with flimsy excuses. Do that, and I can promise I will honor your requests, my dear."

The rest of the dinner was spent dealing with the finer points of our arrangement. For simplicity's sake, and for his amusement, you were to simply be 'dating' if anyone asked. He was allowed to buy you gifts, and you were expected to keep them, but he wouldn't force you to use or wear them. You got him to agree to the caveat that he wouldn't bug anything either, but with your current situation, it wasn't like he needed to keep tabs on you.

So long as you dressed like someone who wanted to be going on dates, he wouldn't force a specific wardrobe on you. You were also forbidden from giving him the silent treatment on anything, the idea was, after all, for him to sate his curiosity. So long as you were honest, you would be okay.

The only thing left to do was play along to the best of your ability and hope he grew bored of you before you reached the end of your rope.

As you got home that evening you realized that it was more likely you'd reach the end of your proverbial rope. Donquixote had waited a year before he had sprung this trap, which meant he was far more patient that you would've guessed. You already knew how terribly manipulative he was, and you could only hope that no matter how long you had to endure this you wouldn't find yourself pulled along by that manipulation.

As you drifted off to sleep, you could've sworn you could smell the sweet scent of citrus and warm sand, and thought that your mind was desperately trying to soothe you the best it could.

[pico-digital-studios]

Into, Across and Beyond! Scripting: Retained Memories (READ TO THE END)

A couple of days following One More Hero's events, Sally came to see Tails up at the balcony of a forest.

Sally: You okay, Tails?

Tails: I am, yeah. I've just been pretty deep in thought since what happened a few weeks ago.

Sally: You sure? You've been awfully silent recently...

Tails: I mean... after all that happened with the Outbreak Malware Threat, I've still been really shook up.

Sally: Yeah... Sure wasn't a pleasant experience.

Tails was doing his best to fight off his exposure to the multiverse's bounds' radiation from the big battle, considering, even after a year, his body was still recovering from how many times he perished at OMT's hands.

Tails: At some point, I'm gonna have to be ready for if something like that happens again. I still want Sonic to be proud of where we've come to, you know?

Sally: Speaking of, I was wondering if you'd like to hang around more often.

Tails: Heh, yeah. I'd really like that.

Sally: Besides... I know when someone isn't okay. You've been very deprived ever since we got back from the whole ordeal.

Whilst OMT's other victims only remembered their most recent demise, Tails was unlucky enough to remember ALL of them. Yes, every. Single. One.

Tails: I've remembered all those times I got killed during OMT's rampage here, and I'm still shook up thinking about it... Even trying to fight back changed nothing...

He was just glad aging was halted in his universe, as he clearly was not ready to go into being a teenager.

Sally: Would you like to talk about it?

Tails: Y-Yeah.

A little later...

Sally: So... you remember every death you've faced?

Tails sadly nodded.

Tails: Every single one...

Sally: W-Why didn't you tell us any of this? T-This is beyond terrible forms of trauma!

It was very clear Tails needed therapy to clear his mind of all the trauma OMT gave him.

Sally: Tails... What you're doing isn't healthy, and by the looks of it, it's harming you a lot... If you need someone, I'm always all ears. You're my friend, after all.

Tails: T-Thanks, Sally.

It then started raining, as the radiation's side-effects kicked in, leaving Tails suddenly exhausted.

Sally: Looks like the storm's started. Come on, we need to get back home. Think you can fly us to your workshop?

Tails tried to, but his fatigue made his twin tails feel heavy to move.

Tails: O-Oh...

Sally: Oh, man... That doesn't look good. Come on, hop on my back. I'll walk, and you navigate me to where your house is.

Tails nodded as they headed back.

After this scene, Sally found out Tails had a nasty fever from the radiation and the abundance of Chaos energy he was forced to use to stop Eggman Nega. She also discovered his compartment of plushies he made of his multiversal companions, which she genuinely found sweet.

However, it wasn't all positive. Tails was still horribly haunted by his experiences, to the point that he had to go through nightmares related to OMT and his sickening misdeeds. Thankfully, Sally was there to comfort him, but it would still be some time before Tails was ready to help protect his home again.

Fortunately for him, since Detective Ghost was already an ample crime fighter alongside him, she could handle the main crooks while he recovered. And Tails managed to fully recover his strength and gain an immunity to the radiation. Sally also proved to be a good role model to Tails and made sure he was well cared for in that month, which was very valuable to him.

And after he was feeling all better, he continued his usual crime-fighting acts alongside Detective Ghost, whilst keeping his studies going strong at Bumper High School, maintaining his excellent grades alongside Max Cartwright. After 5 more months, however, we know what happens next, don't we? But that's a tale for another point.

To be continued in More than One Universe...

...

...

"Do you even get it? Do you even realise WHY my little bro had suffered so much in that year?! ...No, of course you wouldn't. Because it's all about your petty idea of entertainment, isn't it?"

"I've seen so much of the multiverse after my passing, and to be frank, I discovered that there are LOTS of creatures like OMT out there, all targeting the same people who quite frankly don't deserve their fates. And it makes me feel bitter to see that you seem to love seeing Tails suffer; always first, ALWAYS the worst."

"Yeah, that's right. I can see you watching behind that screen of yours! That monster isn't the only one who can see past your fourth wall. And to be quite frank, you have SERIOUSLY pissed me off, ESPECIALLY whoever let this freak into my world! My best friend has suffered the worst from it, all because of your "Tails demos" and alternating paths! One death would've been merciful enough for them, but NO! You just want to satisfy your curiosity and desire for "entertainment" just to watch those I love suffer!"

"Consider yourself lucky I'm not real OR alive at this point. Nobody deserves to go through that level of suffering in ANY dimension, ESPECIALLY not Tails. I don't care how "quality" or "appealing" your little .exe games might be; every time you make those, you're forcing another version of Tails to suffer, AND Knuckles, AND Robotnik, and potentially even the girls! All because you want to gain recognition from giving a monster fuel to cause terror!"

"I'm gonna cut off this post here and hope that you actually bother listening. If even one more version of my companions is forced to suffer at the hands of an EXE as of the day this post was made... you'd seriously better hope you can run WAY faster than I can."

[quinloki]

Quicksand

Fem Reader x Sir Crocodile

CW: Language, violence, blood, moral ambiguity, murder, sexual themes and situations, yandere, angst with a happy ending, a referenced instance of physical abuse. 18+ only

Chapter 1 - Table of Consent -

Chapter 16: Feather Light

After the meeting the investors filed out of the office. The meeting had gone well, despite your concerns, and you were glad that Buggy filled the role of support for you. It was better if the investors saw you as the voice of authority and reason, otherwise they would go past you and deal with Buggy directly no matter what. Which would defeat the purpose of your role in dealing with them.

In addition to Buggy's support, Doflamingo spoke highly of you as well, even if he did bring up Rain Dinners and Crocodile at the same time, but it gave you credibility with the other investors.

When everyone else was gone, Doflamingo was still seated, smiling at you. You turned to Buggy and asked if you could borrow his office for a moment, and after making sure you were sure, he left.

You kept your distance from the Warlord, but you looked over at him.

"What do you-," you pause and shake your head. "Thank you for your... gift."

"It was quite the ordeal to get my hands on that phone," He admits, staying in the chair with that same terrible smile. "The look on his face though, when I visited him was-."

"I'm not going to talk about... that." You say, anger twisting your face for a moment before you composed yourself. "Right now, we're talking about you and me, Mr. Donquixote. Specifically, why I'm contingent on your investment in this company."

"You're a superb employee." He says, his grin almost seeming to grow. "So much so that you were amply rewarded with a meal at the most exclusive restaurant within 100 kilometers of your home, Miss (Y/N)."

"You know exactly why we were there." You roll your eyes in frustration. "What do you want?"

"Oh, we were having such a delightful conversation," his smile falters a little, but not by much and not for long as he stands up. "If it is straight to the point then, so be it. I want to get to know you, Miss (Y/N)."

"Absolutely not." You take a step back involuntarily, "I already know more about you than I care to, and I no intention to-." You couldn't move. "I ... what's happening?"

Doflamingo's fingers moved, and then so did you. The realization made your blood run cold.

He was a devil fruit user, and whatever it was, it allowed him to control your body.

"Twice now you've amused me unintentionally, Miss (Y/N)." He says with a soft chuckle, closing the distance between the two of you, and covering your mouth with his hand as he leans down to be more face to face with you. "Scream and I puppeteer your precious boss off the roof of this building, are we clear?"

You nod, surprised to find you could.

"You understand your position then, Miss (Y/N)?" He asks, removing his hand from your mouth and caressing your cheek.

"I have a pretty good idea, yeah." You admit, trying not to flinch at the touch that sends a cold chill through you.

"This Friday, I believe you will find yourself with time to spare," he says, holding out a card. "Be here, at the time indicated. Dress comfortably." He leans forward, speaking low into your ear. "Do anything to displease me, and you will not be the target of my displeasure."

You swallow hard as he tucks the card into the collar of your blouse.

"If something outside my control happens, how can I tell you?" You ask after he takes a step back. "A wreck, an act of the gods, that sort of thing."

"... My number is on the card," he says after a moment's silence. "Miss (Y/N), you should do everything within your power to make sure you can attend."

"I will- I know, I just..." You look up at him before looking away. "I'm not feeling much like luck's on my side lately."

That unsettling chuckle shifts lazily between you again. "Fair enough. I will ensure you find your way to that appointment safely." He promises you as his fingers move and your body is willed where he wishes. He lifts you up and sets you on Buggy's desk, sliding his arm around your waist and he takes a picture of the two of you. "The more you indulge me, my dear, the more of this will remain between you and I."

Your eyes go wide as the picture clicks your situation into place, the image of Crocodile against the concrete blocks comes to mind. That had been a cruel gift for you, and this could be a similar gift for him.

Even if he had decided to move on from his feelings, there was no way for you to know it. You couldn't tell him your decision any more than he could tell you his. It didn't matter what your feelings were, the fact of the matter was that the only shared point of contact the two of you had was Doflamingo, and the bastard could frame what he knew in a way that would work to his benefit.

You wanted to move on, you didn't want to hurt Crocodile in the process. At least no more than you could help. You could hope he harbored no more feelings for you, but the possibility that you were both still precious to each other was like a weight on your heart right now.

"I understand." You will the words to come forth, but there's no much energy behind them.

"As long as we have an understanding." He purrs, patting your shoulder gently before he walks away.

You feel your body relax as Doflamingo leaves the office, and after a moment you slide off the desk. You pull the card from your blouse and aren't surprised to see the card is for Baratie's. A time of 7pm is written on the front and the back has a phone number, one that you unfortunately recognize.

It had been saved on your phone for the last year under the capitalized heading of "Do Not Answer" ever since Doflamingo had called you a year ago.

. . . . . .

You had talked to Buggy afterward and told him pretty much everything. You didn't go into the details of the relationship you had with Crocodile – other than the fact that you had been dating - but you wanted Buggy to at least be in your corner entirely if you were going to have to deal with Doflamingo. Your boss' jaw had been practically on the floor for the entire conversation and you were a little surprised he hadn't sorted out that you were dating the CEO before now.

Buggy didn't seem like the sharpest knife in the box, but he was surprisingly good at picking up on things. Maybe he had simply put on blinders when it came to Crocodile – better to not know too much in that case. It could be it just wasn't something Buggy thought about himself. In all the time you'd known him you hadn't known him to have anyone on his arm, or even talk about it, and Buggy tended to talk about everything.

Friday you had taken half a day off work, and a couple of hours before you were due at Baratie's you were standing in your room, looking at the clothes in your closet.

It was requested that you dress comfortably. You weren't sure what exactly comfortably meant to Doflamingo, but comfortably to you meant slacks and a blouse. You were going to Baratie's so you couldn't wear jeans and a t-shirt, but you weren't going to wear the dress you had worn before. Even if you thought that was exactly what he wanted you to do.

It was a fine line you needed to walk, to maintain your dignity, and also to not displease Doflamingo to the point that he took his frustrations out on anyone else. Be it Crocodile, or Buggy, or even Alvida, as you were quite sure he was aware of all of your social connections at this point.

You realized you had a decent compromise available to you and pulled out a simple black dress. The neckline went down a bit further than you'd like – at least while being in Doflamingo's presence, but the cap-sleeved shoulders and the just-past-your-knees skirt length left the dress feeling cute and not sexy. A simple pearl necklace and some single pearl post earrings would make a bun hair style pull everything together in a more business than pleasure look.

This way you'd be dressed comfortably, and in a dress, and absolutely no miscommunications about your thoughts on the matter. With luck, it wouldn't be skirting on the wrong side of the line, but it's not like he bothered to buy you something, and quite frankly you were relieved about that. So this much should be fine.

With an hour to make it to the restaurant, you left your apartment. When you got downstairs there was a limo at the end of the walkway. You started to move around it and an older gentleman that was standing by the rear door cleared his throat. You tilted your head, looking at him curiously.

"The Young Master requested that I ensure you arrive at Baratie's safely, Miss (L/N)." He said, opening the back door of the limo for you and stepping aside.

Delightful.

"... Very well. It seems I am in your care, Mister?"

"You may call me Mr. G." He offers as you step inside the thankfully empty limo.

"Thank you, Mr. G."

The perk of the ride to the restaurant was that you didn't have to think about the fact that you were going to the restaurant. You didn't have to consider 6pm Friday evening traffic. Your nerves weren't frazzled by worrying about each passing minute no matter if the traffic was good or bad. You arrival was in the hands of one of his own men, and by association, could not be your fault no matter what.

The only thing that did bother you, was you currently had no easy way home. You had plenty of options available to you, but you were quite sure that you were going to have unfortunate company riding with you on the way back to your apartment.

When you arrived, you were surprised to see Doflamingo standing outside the restaurant. He was dressed plainly, or plainly for how you knew he preferred to dress. He was in a suit, but it was nothing special – muted colors, good fit, and his trademark glasses. He looked – as one expected an ex-model to look – good.

He looked more like the CEO of a pharmaceutical company than he did a model or a Warlord. It was as close to being undercover as you could've imagined him managing.

"Ah, Miss (Y/N), pushing boundaries already, I see." He muses, offering his elbow as you walked over to him.

"Hardly." You reply, accepting the offered arm as a means of keeping the peace. "If you required I dress a specific way, then you should've provided better parameters. I am dressed comfortably, and I'm dressed accordingly for Baratie's."

You got nothing more than a soft chuckle as a response as the two of you were seated. Doflamingo had taken over ordering for the both of you, and you focused on maintaining neutrality. You didn't want to give him anything to use to get under your skin with, and so going with the flow was the best bet. At least to a point.

"I must admit, Miss (Y/N), you're taking this more calmly than I had expected." He says after the waiter had left.

"It is what it is, I suppose." Your brows knit slightly, and you manage to look at him. "I just don't get why."

"You have theories, I'm sure." He leans back and motions toward you. "Share them, don't hold back. I'd rather ripe honesty than rotten platitudes."

"You called me a year ago, and we have a minute-long conversation, during which you admitted to having cloned my phone. Nothing for a year and then, just as my role in Buggy's organization changes, you... gift me... my old phone. The one that was taken from me for my protection. I have no idea how long you had it, or what you've done to it, I don't even know if it's safe for me to keep it." You shake your head and shrug. "I can't understand why you'd be focused on me, I'm nobody. Sure," you add before he can interject. "I had a relationship that made me someone to somebody, but that's been severed, and if your goal was to simply torment him, you could do so without wasting your time with me."

You sigh and take a sip of wine. "Either you miss him and are trying to while away the hours by tormenting me for your own amusement, or..." You make a face and shake your head. "No – It's not that."

"Mm, don't hold back on me now, Miss (Y/N)." Doflamingo says, and there's an edge to his bemused chuckle that makes you nervous.

"... Or you think you like me, and you're trying to sort that out." It sounded utterly laughable to say it out loud, but there's a silence that settles between the two of you that makes you uncomfortable. "And... that's not possible." You add after you can't take the silence any longer.

"Oh? You seem so sure about that." He leans forward, catching your gaze as he looks over his glasses.

You look away. "I am, I just don't know if I could say why without risk."

"Honesty may not always be pleasant, Miss (Y/N), but I won't punish you for it."

"There's no room for someone else in your heart, Mr. Donquixote." You say after a moment's consideration. "At best I'm a distraction, at worst you see me as a discarded toy and you're curious why he kept me around."

His smile freezes on his face for a moment, and you're unsure if he's shocked, angry, or simply unable to smile any wider than he already is. After a few moments of more uncomfortable silence, he speaks.

"What fascinates me, is how you reacted to his incarceration." Doflamingo says, a lazy smile on his face as he leans back in his chair. "You weren't surprised by the title he held."

You shake your head. "I knew what he was before I started working for him." You admit.

"And me?"

You nod, not wanting to put it to words. No matter what answer you gave – honest or not – it would've been entertaining for Doflamingo.

"Fufufufu, interesting." He leans forward as your meal is served. "You know all of us?"

"By name, at least." You answer evenly.

"How unusual." He muses for a moment, taking a bite or two of food before continuing. "Let's talk terms, Miss (Y/N)."

"Terms?"

He nods. "I do wish to get to know you. We'll say it's to sate my curiosity for now. You quite despise me, and I would prefer not to simply break you and toss you aside."

You were acutely aware of your position before now but hearing him put it so bluntly made your whole body go cold for a moment.

"Then..." You pause a moment to make sure he's done before you continue. "Don't let this effect my job and don't force me into anything physical."

He was silent for a moment before he smiles. "Don't lie to me, and don't try to worm out of dates with flimsy excuses. Do that, and I can promise I will honor your requests, my dear."

The rest of the dinner was spent dealing with the finer points of our arrangement. For simplicity's sake, and for his amusement, you were to simply be 'dating' if anyone asked. He was allowed to buy you gifts, and you were expected to keep them, but he wouldn't force you to use or wear them. You got him to agree to the caveat that he wouldn't bug anything either, but with your current situation, it wasn't like he needed to keep tabs on you.

So long as you dressed like someone who wanted to be going on dates, he wouldn't force a specific wardrobe on you. You were also forbidden from giving him the silent treatment on anything, the idea was, after all, for him to sate his curiosity. So long as you were honest, you would be okay.

The only thing left to do was play along to the best of your ability and hope he grew bored of you before you reached the end of your rope.

As you got home that evening you realized that it was more likely you'd reach the end of your proverbial rope. Donquixote had waited a year before he had sprung this trap, which meant he was far more patient that you would've guessed. You already knew how terribly manipulative he was, and you could only hope that no matter how long you had to endure this you wouldn't find yourself pulled along by that manipulation.

As you drifted off to sleep, you could've sworn you could smell the sweet scent of citrus and warm sand, and thought that your mind was desperately trying to soothe you the best it could.

[holdmeclosertinytaron]

A little catch up!!

Ahhhh it feels like forever since I've properly posted on here. I promise I'm still alive, life has just been kicking my ass this year and it's been a lot to juggle. So here's a little rundown for you all...

In January I had to have an ultrasound on my abdomen due to intermittent, excruciating pain. Turns out I have gallstones (yay!). The doctor was referring my to general surgery to discuss options which was fine.

In February I had the gallbladder pain bad and wound up bed ridden for five days after unable to eat or drink. I slept continuously for almost 24 hours and my mum was getting worried about me because I started to turn yellow. I'm talking fully minion yellow. So I ended up in A&E where I spent five of the shortest hours of my life waiting to find out what was going on. I was put on a fluids drip because I'd only had 500 ml of water in four days.

I spoke to a lovely surgeon at like 1am who was quite surprised that I knew what she was talking about (thanks Grey's Anatomy for that. You're a real one). She told me that she would like it for me to stay overnight but she knew I wanted to go home so she let me home but made me promise I would go back to the hospital the following day for an MRCP and more blood tests because some of my levels were really high.

I got a call the next day telling me that my scan had been scheduled for the following morning so to take the day to rest and that I didn't need to go in. I still wasn't eating or drinking. I wasn't hungry and I was so exhausted it was awful.

I had the scan and then I went to the surgical same day emergency care department where I had blood drawn and had to wait for an hour for results. I was finally starting to get thirsty but I couldn't have a drink of anything in case I needed emergency surgery. A doctor came to speak to me and he said I had more gallstones than they first thought but they were no longer blocking a duct like they were before so I could go home. I just had to go back again the day after for another blood test to make sure my bilirubin and haemoglobin levels had sorted themselves out. Fun.

The following day I went back and had even more blood drawn. Before this whole ordeal I was petrified of needles. Now I just give them my arm and tell them to go to town. I was allowed to drink that time so a nurse made me the worst cup of tea of my life, bless her. Not her fault, the teabags they use at the hospital aren't the ones I'm used to. That's besides the point.

Another doctor came to speak to me and asked me how I was doing. I told him I felt fine again and as though nothing had happened. He was glad I was feeling better and said as long as my levels had dropped he was happy to sign me off and let me wait for general surgery to get in touch with me.

My levels had dropped enough to go home!!

A couple of weeks later I got a letter from general surgery with an appointment for the 4th of April. Perfect. My fear of hospitals was no more because I'd been so much bad in February so off I went with my mum to this appointment with a consultant.

What a laugh that was. Throughout this whole thing, my weight hadn't been mentioned once. I had only dealt with one male doctor at this point too and that was a phone call to tell me I had gallstones. Every other doctor, nurse and surgeon I'd spoken to were women and not one of them mentioned my weight.

Now I know I'm overweight. It isn't a secret. I am fat. But to have a surgeon look at you and talk to you for fifteen minutes about your weight, while looking at your mum instead of you, that shit is awful. He didn't know why I was there. He thought I'd been rushed through from the GP for surgery asap (I thought I was getting surgery asap too).

For a whole twenty minutes he said I would need to be referred back to my GP and put on a weight loss programme otherwise I couldn't have the surgery and that waiting for surgery is dangerous because of how easily a stone can block a duct and such. He then proceeded to make it sound as if he thought I would find it difficult to cut out 'nice things'. I made him acutely aware that since I had been in the hospital, I had eaten fresh, lean meat everyday with potatoes and vegetables. I have cut out pretty much all fat from my diet and happily sat back while everyone else in the house has had chocolate.

I don't find cutting things out of my diet hard. I find it hard to be sitting in front of a man telling me that I have to go on a weight reduction programme and that it will take hard work and dedication, as though I don't know what they mean.

Said consultant sent me for even more bloods to make sure my liver function is okay which I totally get. And then he referred me back to the GP so they can refer me to this programme which could take months.

All the while I still have gallstones that could cause pain at any given time. I have no clue when I'm getting surgery so I have to live with this for however long, not knowing when it's going to strike and eating the most boring foods with no fun snacks.

It is debilitating living life not knowing when you're going to be in the worst pain of your life. I wouldn't wish gallstone/gallbladder pain on my worst enemy it is hell. It comes on suddenly with absolutely no warning and it can last anywhere from an hour to five hours. I have to sit with two hot water bottles, one on my front and one on my back, and not move. It makes me throw up, it makes me sob uncontrollably, and it makes me feel like such a failure.

So that's why I've been quiet recently. I've been dealing with lots of health things and have been spending more time trying to focus on me than anything else. HOWEVER, these past two days have been spent working tirelessly with my angel @brayndilyn to write some of the big fic coming this year. I can't wait to share it with you!! We love it and we hope you do too.

[mourambles]

WAAA school was eating me ALIVE so I missed like... too many prompts..... BUT. I'm going to make it up!! two prompts a day coming right up for the next little while... ough

day 4: scared !! (cw for some depressing af thoughts)

(ok so there's HELLA lore behind this. perhaps I shall ramble about it in another post. but bottom line is Celeste is sorta being haunted by this demon thing that's bonded to her soul after this wacky ritual that she was tricked into... insanity angst </3)

It was a miracle she survived, they said. That the ritual should have killed her. If Hellboy hadn’t been there, that certainly would’ve been true. But he showed up right on time, even after that ruinous argument they had, and he was there for her. 

These days, however, she found herself wishing the whole ordeal really did kill her.

She didn’t remember much from that night, but one thing she did remember was the thing. It was difficult to describe in appearance, but perhaps that was what made it so recognizable. It almost looked like a shadow, with gnarled, curling horns and innumerable eyes that never stayed still on its face. It was tall and hunched horribly when it came to her.

She remembered being held by it, its cold, clawed hands on her cheeks. The memory made her shudder. But it was only a memory, and she’d taken comfort in knowing the thing was gone.

That luxury, that comfort, didn’t last long.

A mere few nights later, she was back in her own apartment. The injuries she’d sustained were minor enough that they let her go home, and at first she was grateful for that.

But that same night, she saw it again, and suddenly she wasn’t so glad to be alone.

She woke up, unable to move. It was at the end of her bed. She tried to scream. It brought a gnarled finger to where a mouth might have been, shushing her in echoing tones. A mouth with needle teeth revealed itself in a nightmare of a smile. 

It was walking towards her. Standing on her bed, bent at nearly 90 degrees to avoid hitting the ceiling. She could feel its weight on the bed, and the way her limbs got cold as it got closer, closer—

And then she could move again, and the moment she shot out of bed it was gone.

It was only a dream, she told herself. What else could she do?

But it kept coming back. At first only at night, taking up more and more of her time in bed. She avoided sleeping. She didn’t want to see it, even if she was only dreaming.

Then it came during the day. She’d see it in the reflection of a window, in a tree’s wavering shadow, hiding in a crowd of pedestrians. Full daylight, just standing there, watching her.

It was then that she knew it couldn’t be a dream. Right?

She’d shut herself up at home, but it’d find her there still. She’d walk the streets for hours with her head turned to her feet, but she’d look up once and it would be there. She was tormented by it.

Worst of all, it began to speak to her. Even from afar she would hear its voice right in her ear, a terrible, haunting noise that echoed in her mind. No one else seemed to hear it. No one else seemed to see it.

It would ask her things. Do you feel your soul burning? It would tell her things. Soon you will die, and the remnants of your being will be mine.

The days blurred together, places felt alien, her own skin felt wrong on her bones. And always there was the sound of the demon—she knew that’s what it was—in her ears, and its horrible form in her view. Every waking moment was a nightmare, sleep was no better, and her heart never seemed to stop racing.

She found herself wondering how it could just stop—all of it.