#and if you'd bothered to introduce him to the family before your wedding

[betty-bourgeoisie]

For the like two of you actually following this saga my cousins wedding went off better then could possibly be expected but I still don't like their new husband, so you win some you lose some I guess

[creedslove]

MAKING OUT WITH THE BRIDE'S FATHER - JOEL MILLER HEADCANONS ✨

No outbreak!Joel Miller x f!reader

A/N: the reason why I love Pedro so much is that he always makes me feel alive no matter how bad the situation is 💟

A/N #2: besties I'm so sorry about this Headcanon, I know it's sooooo bad, but I had the idea several weeks ago I think I don't really remember and I've been writing a little bit every day since but I went through a lot in a short time and I lost inspiration but at the same time it was really bothering me to see it lying in my drafts unfinished, I'm sorry it sucks, but I love you all 💕

• you met Sarah Miller when she was only a freshman girl, completely lost in her first day of college after she was dropped off and looking like a scared little deer even if she tried assuring you she was alright

• you were a few years older than her and you'd been there, so you pretended to believe she was alright but still offered her some help to get her dorm organized and simply find herself around campus; she quickly accepted it and that was how your friendship had started

• during the semester, you became one of Sarah's best friends; as you were always there to help her out, advise her or simply offer her some company or comfort the days she felt lonely and missed her family too much - you knew she didn't know her mom and she was raised by her dad and her uncle which you thought it was pretty awesome of them, but other than that, you didn't actually hear much about them, as you both often talked about other stuff

• and so the years passed and soon enough Sarah was graduating and marrying her college sweetheart, Ben, who'd been introduced to her by you during a party, so it was more than exciting to be invited to that beautiful party

• so you packed your bags, got yourself a decent place on Airbnb and went to Austin, to celebrate the wedding of your beloved friend, due to conflicting schedules, you could only get there a few days before the wedding, which ruined your plans of meeting Sarah's family, having dinner together and getting to the city, since the most you were able to do was just handle the last adjustment and details for your dress, help Sarah with the arrangements for the party and of course, party hard in her bachelorette party

• the bachelorette party was partially organized by you, as you never really knew how those things were supposed to go, other than just the scenes you saw in several movies, should you go to a male strip club? Should there be men half naked rubbing themselves against you and your friends? You weren't so sure, so you talked to Sarah and you picked a nice nightclub to dance and drink

• so you and your group of friends hit the club, all in your best clothes, nice heels and Sarah wearing a cute little party veil so everyone would know she was the bride to be. The night was perfect and you danced and drank as much as you wanted, knowing you could just call yourself a Uber to go home

• you stayed until the end of the party, your group of friends had all left home in different Uber rides and Sarah was picked up by Ben just some moments ago, so you grabbed your purse, paid for your part of your check and went to the parking lot, since your uber wouldn't take much to get there

• and that was when you saw him: easily the most handsome man you'd ever seen, older than you of course, tall, broad, brown hair salt and peppered and leaning against his truck. He seemed to be waiting for someone, but his attention was immediately shifted towards you, and he couldn't pay attention to anything else

• you just caught Joel's attention as you walked out of that bar; you didn't seem drunk or wasted, but definitely a little tipsy and while he wasn't a creep - Sarah had accidentally called him and asked him to pick her up and there was no way in the world he wouldn't come for his little girl, even if she wasn't little anymore and was going to be a married girl in a couple of days

• and even when she explained to her dad that she didn't mean to call him and he didn't need to pick her up because she was already going home with Ben - clearly drunk, which bothered Joel but he couldn't actually do anything about it - he said he was just going back to sleep, omitting the fact he was already at the parking lot waiting for her. She wasn't a child anymore, but he really missed when she was one because then, she would still be his sweet little Sarah wearing her cute star PJs to bed, and not exiting the club completely drunk like she did a while ago

• but all that whining went away in the blink of an eye once Joel spotted you, because he couldn't recall seeing a better looking woman at a bar in so fucking long, that or it was because he hadn't gotten laid in so long, his balls might've been blue but he wasn't just gonna empty them on the first woman he saw, so he just kept using his hand for it

• but you... He swallowed hard and decided to take a few steps towards you, after all, it wouldn't hurt just to make sure you were doing okay and no creeps were bothering you, because he wasn't a creep, he just wanted to make sure you were alright

• and when you saw Joel walking towards you, you felt your breath caught in your chest. He was so freaking handsome, big and manly, the kind of man to put you on all fours and fuck you while he whispers into your ear what a good girl for him you really are

• and you didn't remember much of your interaction with him, when you realized what you were doing, you were pressed against the hood of his truck, kissing him hungrily while his strong hands squeezed your body and roamed all over you; your hands messing up with his curls, tugging at them slightly as you moaned into his mouth, against better judgement you could let yourself be fucked by him at that moment

• however, you didn't even know his name, it was a dangerous game your body begged you to play, but your rational side was still too alert for it, so when you managed to see your Uber had arrived, you found strength in yourself to get rid of his intoxicating touch in your body and simply run to the car, you should've asked his name, but you didn't

• and the following days after that night at the bar, as much as you tried thinking of something else, all you could focus on, was that handsome man and the way he held you, he gripped your body and kissed you; it was different from any kind of touch you'd experienced, that mysterious man seemed addictive to you

• but as the wedding approached, your lustful thoughts had to be placed aside so you could focus on all the tasks you had to do: help Sarah get ready, check the venue for her and so on, not to mention getting ready yourself for the event, being so busy you totally skipped the part where you'd meet her family

• as you waited in church for her with the rest of your friends, you couldn't help but being extremely shocked to see Sarah walking down the aisle by her father, whom you had never actually seen before that night at the bar, but he happened to be your mysterious fling from the parking lot

• Joel also couldn't believe the hot girl he'd made out with was his daughter's best friend, he knew he was older than you even if you both hadn't much time to talk, but he didn't expect that

• you two had to stop those feelings aside so you could focus on the ceremony, but the way Joel kept glancing at you, made it pretty obvious you'd have a very interesting wedding reception afterwards 😉

____

[fandomlovingfreak]

The Perfect Man for Me

Ray Stantz/F!Reader One-Shot

Rating: General Audiences

Includes: Bringing someone as a plus one to a wedding, having your aunt and cousin tease you about it.

Word Count: 2812

MasterList Link I AO3 Link I Wattpad Link

Summary: I bite the eraser end of my pencil as I continue to look at the morning crossword, "My cousin's wedding is next week." 

Or alternatively: Maybe a soulmate can be disguised as a friend.

Disclaimer: I do not own the Ghostbusters (sad, I know). This work has not been created for profit or financial compensation, and is a transformative fair use work in accordance with Section 107 of the United States Copyright Act.

Notes: This got MUCH longer than I expected it to. It just sort of spilled out of me randomly on Sunday night so I hope it’s good. We have no beta reader as usual aha!

Enjoy

I bite the eraser end of my pencil as I continue to look at the morning crossword, "My cousin's wedding is next week."

Janine perks up, her morning coffee seeming to hit her all at once, "You still haven't found a date? I thought you were going out with that journalist guy."

"I was! But he was--" A complete jackass. "He wasn't the one."

Janine rolls her eyes, "You weren't looking for 'the one', (y/n). Just a date for one night."

I sigh, shoving the blasted newspaper away from me. "I know! But I would love to show up to a family event with a man I like for once. I'm sure my extended family all think I'm hopeless at this point. You know, I haven't taken the same guy to any event I'm permitted a plus one? It's pathetic..."

Usually, I didn't care too much about being single. I wasn't afraid to go alone to dinner or the movies... I didn't really think about it that often unless I was invited to something and had to scramble to find a date. Then it mattered a whole lot!

Dating wasn't something I bothered with often outside of events anyways... but it would be nice for once to be with someone who actually liked me! 

The men I went out with were all interesting on a surface level sort of way, but none of them seemed to see me as much more than a... date. I wanted someone who wanted to know about my day, wanted to know about my stories! Who wanted to be a friend alongside being a lover.

Maybe, it was silly to think I could find this perfect guy; maybe it was a concept only found in romance novels. But, part of me wanted to believe this perfect man, perfect man for me, existed.

Janine puts her hand on mine in an attempt to comfort me, "You're preaching to the choir."

Laughter escapes my lips, "I'm being silly. I'll just call Paul, the journalist, and ask if he wants to go..."

"If you don't like the guy, don't invite him. I'm sure you can find someone else before next Friday."

"You're probably right. He was such a jerk last time I saw him. I can't imagine introducing a man like him to my parents. They'd be impressed for a moment, with his job and all, but by the end of the night, they'd think I was crazy for inviting him to Chrissy's wedding."

"What did he do? If you don't mind me asking." Janine leans forward, interested in the little tidbit of information I'd give out about my love life.

I shrug, "It's silly, but he made fun of my job. He just thinks the whole 'ghostbusting' business is silly. A non-believer. I told him to bother someone else if he ever encountered a spirit. He didn't like that, you know?"

Janine laughs, "You'd think after the boys saved New York City, more of the non-believers would have given that up."

"I swear some of these men are just jealous, though. Paul may have a good job, but he doesn't get to be the hero. It's gross how insecure they can get over silly jealousies."

Taking a sip of coffee, Janine nods her head, "Say, maybe one of the guys will go with you."

I snort, "I don't think they want to go to a family wedding with me, Janine. Besides, I think I'd be stepping over some sort of line asking my employers out."

Janine rolls her eyes, "Oh (y/n). You don't see so many things that are right in front of you."

What the hell did that mean?

"Pardon?"

She shakes her head, "Nevermind. I just remembered I said I'd file some stuff for Peter." Janine gets up with her coffee in hand, leaving me at the kitchen table with my thoughts.

What could she have meant by me not seeing things in front of me?

***

The day draws on slower than usual. The only call of the day ended up being a dud. Just an old woman who believed her meddlesome cat stuck in her attic was a spirit.

I'm about to pack up my stuff to leave when I get the feeling that I'm being watched. Looking up, I see Ray at the bottom of the staircase.

Setting my bag back on the table, I ask, "Ray? Do you need something? I was just about to leave, but I'm sure I can help."

He hesitates before walking up to my desk, "No, I don't need anything."

"Oh," I smile, "Well, good night then."

"Wait--" He looks at me with desperation in his eyes.

I pause once again, "Yes?"

Ray's cheeks are suddenly pink, "I overheard you and Janine in the kitchen this morning."

My eyes widen, "Oh--"

"Wait, let me speak," Ray doesn't look me in the eye, opting to look down at the desk in front of him, "I wanted to know if you'd be interested in letting me take you to your cousin's wedding."

I blink at him, "You want to be my plus one for the wedding? Are you sure--? My family's overbearing, and they may think we're dating if I brought you--"

"Would that be so bad? If they thought that?"

No. It wouldn't be the worst thing if they thought I was dating Ray. He was smart, funny, and very charming. He would be an excellent boyfriend... Wait--

"Um... would this be a date to a wedding or a date to a wedding?"

He scratches the back of his neck, "I was uh--" he clears his throat, "--hoping it would be the latter..."

A small smile creeps across my face, "You're asking me out. How long have you... I mean, I had no idea."

"A while now. So is that a yes--?" He looks at me with hopeful eyes.

I'm interested, I really am. I just didn't think Ray would be interested in someone like me. He was well educated, and I dropped out of college after one semester! Besides, women seemed to flock to him whenever we went out. He could really have anyone.

Why shouldn't I try to catch an intelligent and wonderful man like Ray? "Pick me up at four on Saturday? The reception starts at five."

He smiles. I feel warmth fill my chest. Maybe, this was the start of something wonderful.

***

Nerves fill me as I apply my makeup in my bathroom mirror. I shouldn't be nervous! I was going out with Ray. Ray, who was sweet and funny. He would be a great date. And maybe that's why I'm so nervous! What if I'm the terrible date? What if he finds me boring or stupid? I can never keep up when he and Egon get to talking about whatever science thing they're obsessed with. 

I'm completely out of my league here!

The ringing doorbell breaks me from my panic.

Taking one last glance at myself in the mirror, I walk the short distance to open the front door.

Ray's standing in the hallway dressed in a light grey suit, holding a small bouquet of pink carnations. He, unsuitably, racks his eyes down my figure. "Hi, these are for you."

I take the flowers from him, "You didn't have to--"

"Please, (y/n), I wanted to. I hope you like carnations."

"They're beautiful." I'm sure I have a goofy smile plastered on my face, but hardly anyone has ever bought me flowers. "Let me go put them in a vase, and then we can leave."

***

The wedding is beautiful. Chrissy and her new husband Rick look deliriously happy as they greet their guests. It makes me hopeful for a future where I can look as lovesick and happy as them.

Sneaking a quick glance at Ray, I wonder if that future would involve him. I'm getting ahead of myself. This was the first date, after all.

"Do you want something to drink?" Ray asks when we find our assigned seats.

"A glass of the white wine, please." I watch as Ray walks towards the bar. So far, none of my family have ventured over, which is good! 

I'm pleasantly surprised over this revelation until I see cousin Laurie walking towards me. 

Drat--

"Who's your date, (y/n)?" My cousin Laurie sits down in Ray's seat. She's heavily pregnant with her third child and absolutely glowing as always.

"Uh--" How should I introduce him? "Ray Stantz."

She frowns, "Wait-- The one you work for? The Ghostbuster?"

I nod. I was afraid this would become a sort of spectacle... The Ghostbusters often attracted admiration and interest when brought up, never mind one actually being in a room full of curious people.

"Yes, the Ghostbuster." I leave out the bit about working for him as it sounds sleazy, me taking the boss out. Oh, jesus christ--

Laurie gives me an impressed look, "Your boss, eh? I didn't know you had it in you--"

"Don't you dare, Laur. I am not sleeping with the boss. This is strictly a first date."

"So it is a date then?"

I want to smack myself, "Don't go around telling people he's a Ghostbuster, please. I just want to have a normal night and see where this goes."

Laurie nods, resting her hand on her belly, "Who knows. Maybe next year, this fuss will be all about you."

"Laur! Please!" I want to hide. I knew they'd get like this, my family. Always interested in my personal life.

"Sorry, sorry. Looks like Mr. Ghostbuster's on his way back here. Say, could you introduce me to my future cousin-in-law?"

"I swear to god, Laurie--"

Ray's standing in front of us before I can threaten her properly, "Here's your wine."

I grin up at him, "Thank you." We sit for a moment in awkwardness.

"Aren't you going to introduce me?" Laurie asks, face full of fake annoyance.

"Sorry," I turn to Ray, "This is my cousin Laurie. Laurie, this is my-- date, Ray."

"It's a pleasure," Ray smiles politely at my obnoxious relative. I did warn him. It's really all I could do for him.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Ray." Laurie smiles at him like he's prey. Oh, you evil thing. What on Earth were you planning on saying? "You really must meet our auntie Penny, Ray. She's such a delightful old woman, and I'm sure she'd love to meet you."

Ray looks at me. "I'm sure that can happen later, Laur. But, I think they're about to serve dinner."

Laurie stands slowly from the chair, "I ought to find my husband and kids. More like wrangle them into their chairs. It was so nice to meet you, Ray."

"Likewise."

When Laurie's made her way back to her table, and we've settled into our seats, I apologize, "She's a handful. But, she's really wonderful once you get to know her." I realize how presumptuous I sound after the words come out of my mouth. Why am I talking to him as if he'll even want to know my family in that way? "I mean--"

"I look forward to it."

I smile into my glass of wine, feeling that sudden rush of giddiness overcome me.

Dinner is served, and our conversation dies down a tad as we eat. The food is magnificent. Chrissy had gushed about Rick's restaurant plenty of times. If this was Rick's creation, he really was a magnificent chef.

"Chrissy's husband Rick is the head chef at Arch. You know, the new place everyone's raving about recently?"

"The place Peter couldn't get a reservation for himself and Dana at?"

I laugh, "The very one."

Ray raises his brow in amusement, "You're telling me you know the head chef, and you didn't offer Pete any help?"

Waving my hand dismissively, I laugh, "He gets perks everywhere in life. He doesn't need my help."

"But, you could, let's say get us a table at Arch next Saturday at seven?"

Avoiding his eyes, I say, "I could talk to Chrissy. That is if you still want to go out with me after you meet my auntie Penny."

Ray chuckles, "Your relatives can't scare me off that easily."

He sounds so confident now, but wait till he meets Auntie Penny. If she doesn't scare him off, I'll be both surprised and immensely pleased. This could be the real deal.

***

After the bride and groom cut the cake, I reluctantly take Ray over to meet Auntie Penny, who has been eyeing me for the past hour. I know the woman is curious about this new man. She's always curious about the new man. Never once has she liked or approved of the men I brought to our family events.

She means well, I know she does, but I wish I didn't care about her opinion as much as I do. It would make my life easier for sure.

"Auntie Penny?" I say semi-loudly due to the music that's begun to play on the dance floor.

"Oh! Hello dear," she lets me hug her, "How are you dear?"

"I'm fine, thank you. How are you?"

"As good as I've ever been." She eyes Ray silently, "Who is this dear?"

"Doctor Ray Stantz. It's a pleasure to meet you, ma'am." He takes her hand, shaking it politely.

Auntie Penny looks pleased before instructing us to sit down with her. We oblige, with me sitting the closest to my aunt and Ray in the chair to my left.

"So, Ray, tell me what do you do for work."

Oh, jesus. Of course, she's asking this question. 

Without missing a beat, Ray explains his job as a Ghostbuster. I'm surprised that Auntie Penny doesn't look dismissive, only listening intently. She hadn't given the same sort of reaction the last time I introduced a man who worked for the New York Yankees marketing department. Apparently, ghostbusting was a much more appropriate career than marketing in Auntie's eyes.

"Forgive me for the asking, but didn't you introduce yourself as a doctor? If your job is capturing ghosts, where does the doctor title come into play?"

"I obtained a Ph.D. in parapsychology from Columbia. The ghostbusting is more of an interest that became a career."

If I wouldn't look ridiculous, I would applaud him for that answer as my aunt doesn't look like she finds him absurd. 

"Interesting."

***

I send Ray off to get another drink so I may talk to my aunt in private for a moment. 

When he's well out of earshot, I ask the question that's been sitting in my stomach uncomfortably, "What do you think?"

"About what, dear?"

Pesky old-woman... "About Ray. Do you-- like him?"

Her face betrays no emotion, letting me stew in my nerves for a beat, "I do. I think he's very nice. I'm not so sure on the whole ghostbusting thing, but he's the one with a P.h.D., so who am I to judge."

"Do you really?" I grin, holding onto her boney hand.

"Yes, dear. Are you planning on marry--"

"Auntie! I've only just begun to date him!"

She brushes off the comment, "It's never too early to know these things."

I fight the urge to look away, "I don't want to get my hopes up so soon."

Auntie Penny pats my hand, "If you want my input, I think we'll be planning another wedding very soon."

***

Ray holds me tight as the DJ starts up a slow song.

Fingers tighten at my waist, "So did I pass the tests?"

"What--"

"Your cousins, you aunt... I'm assuming they do this to every guy you bring around."

I laugh, "They're horrible, aren't they? Always prying..."

"It's just because they care."

I adjust my hands around his neck, "They do."

"Did I pass your test?"

Tilting my head, I say, "I wasn't testing you."

Ray grins, "But if you were, would I have passed?"

"We'll have to see how the rest of the night goes, I suppose." My smile gives me away, though, I think. If I were testing him, he passed with flying colors.

My heart pounds in my chest as his gaze flickers to my lips. Was he going to kiss me? I really wanted him to kiss me. I have half a mind to tell him that kissing me would significantly help his odds of 'passing my test'.

His voice is just above a whisper as he finally asks, "Can I--?"

"Yes, yes," I lean up, pressing my lips against his. It feels like coming home, like I've been missing out on something that was right there in front of me the whole time, and I've finally found it.

Ray's hands press me closer as the kiss deepens. I've kissed plenty of men before, but this was magic. 

This was finding your soulmate in a friend.

[sebstanns]

Deserve

Summary: You broach a tricky subject with Bucky. Recovering / soft Bucky x female reader. Angst / fluff / smut.

Warnings: 18+ for sexual content. Unprotected sex. Language.

A.N: I kept meaning to write for Steve but this happened. I usually write for Boyd Holbrook characters on my sideblog - Masterlist.

I didn’t tag anybody but let me know if you’d like to be, possibly a part 2 or a prequel to this. I’d like to thank @ionlyjoinedforboydholbrook​ for her constructive feedback! It’s my first time writing for Bucky so please be kind!

Your heart skips a beat when you see Bucky waiting outside your office building, holding a bunch of flowers no less. He's awkwardly leaning against a wall, eyes darting around searching for you.

"You shouldn't have." You smile as you approach him.

"I was just passing." He murmurs, cheeks flushing as you kiss him.

"Passing a flower stall too?" You ask, accepting the blooms.

"Yeah, I guess so." He smiles.

"Mr Barnes, sorry to bother you." A voice pipes up. You turn and vaguely recognise the guy, you've seen him in the office building. What does he want with Bucky though?

Bucky eyes him warily. "Do I know you?"

"Oh no, I'm uh....I'm a big fan." the guy stammers, starting to sweat.

"So you're a fan of my work as the Winter Soldier or...”

"No no, I mean since then. Saving the world and everything."

"Sure, thanks." Bucky sighs.

You kind of feel for the guy, Bucky wasn't exactly known for accepting compliments, you know that better than anyone.

"Hey, can I get a selfie?" the guy asks, pulling out his phone.

"He's off duty, sorry." You say diplomatically, taking Bucky’s arm. "Let's get going."

"I'll never get used to that, " Bucky mumbles, as you steer him away from his fan. "I spent so much effort trying to hide and now..." He trails off.

"You saved the world, that's what people know you for now." You say, determined to put a positive spin on things.

"It wasn't just me." He says, as you cross the street. He moves his arm and grabs your hand instead, squeezing lightly. He's wearing gloves as is usual in public, concealing his gleaming hand in black leather.

You fall into a companionable silence as you head in the direction of your apartment. You can't help noticing that you're taking the route that happens to pass Bucky's favourite diner - where you first met in fact, a little over four months ago.

"Feel like coffee and pie?" He asks casually.

You grin at his predictability. "Sure."

Your flowers sit on the table in a kindly donated water jug as you and Bucky tuck into pie and ice cream, apple and cherry respectively.

"This...is...the...best...pie." Bucky says between mouthfuls.

"I knew you were going to say that." You tease.

He smiles, his eyes twinkling and crinkling at the corners. Oh, he seems so happy and relaxed, you impulsively decide to broach a tricky subject, figuring now to be a good a time as any.

"So, you know my sister's getting married in a couple of weeks." You begin, glancing at him as you toy with your food.

Bucky's eyes flicker and he fills his mouth with pie. "Hm-hmm." He mumbles.

You take a deep breath. "Well, I was wondering if you'd consider coming with me, as my plus one?"

He pales a little and offers a tentative smile. "I don't know sweetheart."

"Clare wants to meet you, that's all. You don't even have to stay for the full day, just to say hello."

"Sounds more like a family thing." Bucky says tightly, shifting in his seat.

"Well yeah," you swallow, feeling yourself flush. "But you are my....I mean..."

He sighs. "I don't think it's a good idea, you saw what happened outside your office. Imagine that times a hundred."

"Everyone will be focused on the wedding, my family won't bug you, I promise. They aren’t like that.”

Bucky scoffs. “You might be surprised how brave people get after a couple glasses of champagne.”

You sigh impatiently, feeling something inside you break. "What are we doing here Bucky?"

"I thought we were eating pie." He half-smiles.

"You know what I mean. Us." You hated to push him like this, you really did, and you already knew that he wouldn’t react favourably to it, but your developing relationship had seemed to come to a standstill lately.

"We agreed to take things slowly, didn’t we? One day at a time." He says quietly, reaching for your hand.

"But that was four months ago, I thought that we might have progressed beyond that by now. It's like one step forward two steps back with you." You say, your voice cracking with emotion.

"You're not my shrink, ok?" He snaps suddenly.

You slide your hand away from his and reach for your bag, tears forming in your eyes.

"I'm going home." You say softly..

"Don't go, please. I'm sorry." He says, looking up at you, a note of quiet desperation in his voice.

"Enjoy your pie." You sniff, not looking at him. You’re halfway home before you realise that you've left the flowers on the table.

X - X - X

By the time you get home you're angry with yourself more than anything else, cursing the fact that you even mentioned the wedding. You had agreed to take things slowly, but the truth is that you’re falling for Bucky and you want him to be a bigger part of your life. The wedding seemed like the ideal opportunity to introduce him to your friends and family, but on reflection, you realise how overwhelming it might be.

Half an hour later when there's a knock at the door, you know that it's Bucky. He's carrying the flowers, still in the water jug.

"The waitress said we could have this, I think she just felt sorry for me." He chuckles dryly, following you into the living room.

You can’t help but smile at the image of him walking down the street with the flowers.

"I'm sorry." You murmur, setting the flowers on your coffee table.

"Why are you sorry? I was a jerk back there." Bucky frowns.

"I shouldn't have pushed you like that."

"You weren't pushing." He sighs.

"I spooked you.” You say softly, looking up at him.

"Yeah." He smiles. "A little. Look, I’m still trying to figure this out."

"I know. Me too. I've never been in a relationship like this."

"I should hope not." He says wryly.

You chuckle, fighting the urge to just throw youself into his arms.

"I like you, so much." Bucky murmurs, his eyes searching yours as he strokes your face. "But I can't help thinking that you'd be better off with someone else."

Your stomach drops. "No, Bucky-”

"I mean like someone who doesn't get spooked when you want to do regular relationship stuff, it's not fair on you." He says, brow furrowed.

"Look, forget the wedding, I'll ask one of my friends to come."

"It's not just the wedding though is it?" He sighs.

“I don’t want anybody else.” You state firmly, placing your hand on his chest - you can feel his ever present dog tags through the thin material of his sweater.

"You've been so patient with me, it's more than I deserve."

"This is what you deserve." You say, and kiss him gently on the cheek. "And this." then corner of his mouth. "And this." finally the hollow of his throat.

He lets out a soft groan and grips the nape of your neck, kissing you deeply, opening your mouth with his tongue. He tastes of cherry and vanilla, his lips soft but insistent.

"I want you." He breathes. "I want you."

Without a word, you take his hand and lead him to the bedroom. Bucky was so gentle and hesitant when you first started sleeping together, terrified of hurting you with his strength and self-conscious of his arm. You managed to convince him that you could take - even sometimes desired - a little roughness. He loved to take his time undressing you, kissing and touching your soft flesh as he went. And when you reciprocated, he'd been touch starved for so long that the feeling of your hands and lips on him was almost enough.

Tonight he didn't deviate, pulling off your clothes and kissing you everywhere as you laid on the bed. He hovers over you, still half dressed, and you stroke his hair, fingers entwined in the short strands as his lips travel down your body, making you squirm. Finally he kneels between your legs and tugs at your panties, eyes dark with lust.

"James." You sigh, touching yourself, wetness coating your fingertips.

"You're so beautiful." He says gruffly, eyes focused on you as he removes his jeans. You'd seen him naked a number of times now but you never failed to be impressed by his magnificence, even his cock, now hard and leaking at the tip, is a thing of beauty.

You hold your hand out for him to return to the bed but his hands reach for your waist, indicating for you to turn over; you comply and he moves behind you, lifting your hips and pushing into you in one swift movement. You cry out as he fills and stretches your pussy, digging your fingers into the mattress as you back up against him.

"Does that feel good, sweetheart?" He growls.

"Yes, please...don't stop." You mewl, as he buries his cock to the hilt.

Bucky’s flesh hand is between your legs, fingering your aching clit, while his metal one still grips your hip. You place your hand over his, interlacing your fingers with his vibranium digits.

The rhythmic clink of Bucky's dog tags and the sound of your soft cries fill the air, he continues to work your clit in tight circles as he moves inside you, leaning down to pepper kisses on your shoulder - it isn't long before you feel the familiar tightness building at your core.

"Oh, Bucky, I'm going to-" you trail off as he drives into you harder, making you come apart and you moan loudly as your orgasm rolls through you in hot waves.

Compared to you, Bucky's almost silent, quietly panting and groaning, his hold on you tightening as you feel him throbbing into you.

Afterwards he spoons you, his bionic arm around your waist like a vice, kissing your hair.

"Look, about the wedding-" He starts.

"We don't have to talk about it now." You yawn. “Let’s leave it until tomorrow. One day at a time.”

“One day at a time.” Bucky repeats, softly.

[celestialevie]

Weddings and what could’ve been’s // F.W. x F! Reader

Hi! This is my first ever posted fic, I hope you’ll like it!

PAIRING: Fred Weasley x F! Reader

Genre: Angst 

Summary: You’ve been friends with Fred since forever. But what happens when the one you love is not feeling the same and now he’s getting married to the girl he loves. Based off of this song :))

Word count: 2.5k

It was supposed to be a good day. Waking up, getting ready for another day of writing her novel about picturing a certain red head as love interest of her novel. But it all flushed down when she saw a small envelope just sitting there on the table, almost as if it was mocking her. It's been sitting there ever since it arrived yesterday afternoon, not expecting to receive an invitation to the wedding of one person she didn't want to participate in. Fredrick Gideon Weasley. Her best friend since their second year of Hogwarts. It was almost ironic how a simple wedding invitation can break a heart that's already been on the verge of breaking, tears were rolling down her face, not a single sound could've been heard besides her sobs. Her best friend/roommate ran out of her room as soon as she heard her. Not expecting to see her best friend on the floor crying over a single paper, she realises what happened, the one thing she dreaded even though it was only a matter of time before it happened. The way Fred was talking about that girl, she knew that her best friend was in a wait of a permanent broken heart. But now a day later, she decided to throw the invitation in the rubbish, deciding no matter how much she cared about her best friend she knew she wouldn't be able to handle watching him promising himself to someone else for forever. Taking out a bottle of her favourite rose, she pours some of it in a glass and heads back to her room, deciding to forget about her heartbreak by throwing herself into her fictional world where she was the one Fred loved. 

 Soon, she'll realise that not even wine and her own fictional world would help cure her broken heart. Not when the one she's so in love with decided so pay her a visit, not hearing anything from her in over a week. He wondered if she got the invitation to the wedding, the day he couldn't wait for it to finally happen. The thing is, he's not going to be able to do it, if his soulmate in a form of his best friend isn't there by his side, making sure he doesn't panic like he often happens to do in stressful situations. 

Upon hearing knocking on her door, she slowly gets up from her desk, heading to open the door, not expecting to see the person she wanted to see the least, standing in front of her. 

Every day they were closer to the day that changes everything for forever. One of them was dreading that day, while the other one couldn't want for it to come any sooner. Soon it was the day of rehearsal dinner or also known as the day before it all goes shit show for her. Everything was ready, her outfit ready for tomorrow. Deciding she wasn't strong enough to make it through the wedding alone, she begged her best friend to go with her, helping her survive with alcohol. The wedding was in the backyard of The Burrow, but it wasn't anything special or near as big as it was Bill's, both Fred and Lillian agreeing it was best to have a smaller intimate wedding with their closest ones there. Apparating a minute away from The Burrow, she walks towards the door, knocking softly before entering the house. Everyone was on their feet, final preparations for tomorrow are being made. Ginny was the first one to notice her, running towards the girl. Brining her in the hug, she laughs. '' Hi Ginny '' they pull away from the hug, Ginny looking at the girl. '' You look gorgeous y/n. I'm still angry at my brother for not marrying you. '' y/n rolls her eyes playfully. '' Stop it, you know we would never work as a couple, plus Lillian is a lovely girl, I'm sure she'll be a good sister-in-law. '' they talked as they walked upstairs heading towards Ginny's room.  What no one knew is that the night of the Yule ball, Fred was ready to confess his dying crush on his best friend, that's why he brought her to the astronomy tower. He had it all planned out  until they were interrupted, and it was all ruined. Fred often wondered if they hadn't been interrupted would've it been her who he was marrying. Would it work out or would it fail and therefore ruin their friendship. George was the only one along with Lee who knew about it. That's why the night before the wedding he found himself sitting in front of the small lake they had behind their house, wondering if Lillian is truly the one he wants to marry. Y/n found him after a few minutes, joining him. '' I knew I'd find you here. '' he said nothing, just kept looking in front of him. '' What's bothering you, Freddie? '' she gently took his hand into hers, brushing her thumb gently across his hand. '' I'm just worried if I'm making a mistake or rushing this. Before tonight, I couldn't been happier waiting for this day to finally come, but now that it's here all my mind seems to do is make me wonder if I'm marrying the wrong girl. Maybe I should just marry you, we've been friends for forever, it wouldn't change much. '' he lets out a small laugh. Letting go off his hand, I grab his face with my hands on both sides of his face. '' Fred I need you to look at me. Do you love Lillian? '' he nods his head. '' I don't think I've ever loved anyone the way I love her. '' a small smile appears in the corner of his mouth. '' Do you see yourself being with her for the rest of your life? Is she the one you want to see growing old with you? '' y/n questions him. Fred waits for a few seconds before answering, with a big smile on his face. '' Yeah, I do. God, why was I even doubting this. This is why I need you by my side, you always know how to get me out of my head. Thank you, love. '' he pulls her into a strong hug. '' Hey, if you need a getaway car tomorrow, me and George will have one prepared and then we can get married. '' she joked, even though there was some half truth in it. '' it's late, I have to go get that beauty sleep for tomorrow so do you. Goodnight Freddie. '' she plants a small kiss on his cheek before apparating herself back to her flat, before crashing down in the middle of living room, bursting into tears of heartbreak. The pieces that weren't shatter from before, had shattered now. There were no pieces left of her heart. The rest of the night she spent in the arms of her best friend, crying herself to sleep. 

 It was funny really. The story of how they met, how they became inseparable and how she eventually fell in love with him. The latter didn't come to much of a surprise. How could someone not fall in love with him, when he's the most amazing person she's ever come across. It was their second year in Hogwarts, and she was heading towards the library, deciding to prepare herself for the upcoming Potions exam. Merlin knows how much she dreaded those. It wasn't her fault, most people on her mom's side of family never really knew how to do potions. As she was walking there, someone grabbed her by her arm and started dragging her away with them in a direction of the nearest broom closet. In a second she realised it was one of the Weasley twins. Not even needing to ask why he was in such a hurry, already knowing they caused another trouble. Quickly running inside the broom closet, one of the twins put a hand on her mouth, signalling for her to be quiet. Rolling her eyes, she did as told until we heard Filch and Mrs. Norris passing by. Another minute passed on until he removed his hand from her mouth. '' I'm Fred. '' he introduced himself. '' Y/n '' she shook his hand. '' Care to explain why you dragged me into this dusty broom closet with yourself? '' Fred laughed. '' Had to move you out of the way from Filch or else you'd be in the trouble along with me. '' nodding her head, she left the closet. And that was the beginning of their weird friendship. From participating in the pranks, to making excuses why they're not in the certain classes you shared with them to Fred asking her to go to the Yule Ball with him, leading us to the night they had almost kissed. Somewhere in between she slowly fell for her best friend without intending to. It all felt like a dream. Dancing with her best friend so closely, to sneaking off to the astronomy tower because that night, the stars were shining so bright. Slow dancing in the moonlight, it all felt almost to perfect. Both of them slowly leaning towards each other until they heard a crashing noise, interrupting their intimate moment. It made her realise that it was for the best for them to be just friends, their friendship being worth more than a relationship not knowing how it'll end. Almost as if it was a silent agreement between them, neither of the two brought it up ever again. She would never want to ruin his day, so yes she had agreed to be his second best man, no matter how much it'll hurt to be there so up close seeing it all unfold almost like in a film scene. 

Next morning when she woke up, she felt so exhausted while getting ready. She barely had any energy in her body and she was pretty sure she also had no tears left. Putting on her beautiful dress, she did her makeup and hair. She was ready to stand there next to her best friend, and watch him marry the love of his life, no matter how much the fact that it's not her hurted. It was a beautiful ceremony, he looked so beautiful in his dark blue suit, it really made his hair and eyes stand out a bit more, and don't her started on how beautiful the bride was. Her gown looked straight out of a fairytale. A few tears espaced during the ceremony but when George asked her why is she crying, she brushed it off as happy tears, even though she knew she didn't fool George with that lie. During the reception she mostly stayed at her table, trying to drown her sorrow in the wine and other alcoholic drinks. She watched as her roommate/best friend danced with George along with watching Fred and Lillian dance together like it was only two of them. Molly and Ginny often came and talked to me, but it wasn't long until I couldn't handle it anymore and just drowned the rest of my drink before saying goodbye to everyone, making an excuse saying she unfortunately had to go home and finish her book, her publisher gave her a deadline until tomorrow. The last person left to say goodbye to was Fred. Tapping him on the shoulder, she gives him a smile as he turns around. '' Congratulations Freddie boy once again. But I have to leave now unfortunately, I have a book to finish. '' Before she could even say anything he took her hands and put them around his neck, pulling her closer to him. '' Just this one dance and then I'm setting you free, okay? '' He begged her. Nodding her head, they start slow dancing. '' I'm really proud of you Freddie, you finally found the one you always talked about. Hopefully one day I'm gonna find my prince charming one day. '' she rested her head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. '' I'm sorry I wasn't the one for you. '' he said, making the tears slowly start pooling in my eyes. '' That's not for you to apologise, we're too good friends for us to work in a relationship. Us not kissing that night of the yule ball was for the best. If we kissed who knows if you'd meet Lillian, your true love. Don''t you worry about me. '' and with that she pulled away from him, placing a small kiss on his cheek before apparating home. Letting him stand there alone, her words sinking in, making him wonder again if he had made a mistake by not letting her know of his feeling that night. But soon his thoughts were brushed away as he felt the lips of his wife on his.

'' Hello love '' he greets her after she moved aside, letting him in. Pulling her into a hug, he goes into the living room, while she still stands there shocked at her door. Quickly getting rid of her thoughts, she heads over to where he was. '' Hi Freddie, what are you doing here? I didn't expect you to visit. '' she sits down next to him. '' Well it's been over a week since I've last heard from you, so I decided to pay you a visit. She nods her head. '' Yeah, sorry about that. I started working on my novel again and that's all I've focusing on recently. Didn't mean to neglect your need for constant attention. '' she jokes, even though she knew he had his fiancée know to give him attention. Fred rolls his eyes. '' Yeah yeah whatever. Listen I have a question/favour to ask you. '' she furrows her eyebrows. '' Okay, I'm listening. '' taking a deep breath, he begins. '' So as you probably know I proposed to Liliana. Speaking of that, have you received my invitation to the wedding? '' it's been over a month since they got engaged, and yet she still couldn't bare the thought of losing Fred forever. '' Yes I have, it's very beautiful Freddie, I am very happy for the two of you. '' she gives him her best fake smile, not wanting to upset her best friend. '' Thank you, love. My question is, would you like to be my second best man? Along with George of course. I don't think that I would be able to do it without you by my side. Please say yes or at least think about it. It would really mean everything to me. '' This was definitely something she hadn't expect. There goes your plan on not going to the wedding, making an excuse of why she can't make it and get drunk in her room while watching her favourite romcoms. '' Of course Freddie, anything for you. '' those words came out before you even had a chance to think about them. 

[sunseteyes]

HOW FAR I’LL LET GO FOR YOUR WORLD

theme/s: moana, frozen, and little mermaid inspired. the story of a queen and a prince who lived in two different worlds. which one would let go of their throne, title, and family for the other?

word count: 1,937 words

roze’s note: i know those are three disney inspirations and that it’s not really explicitly shown in this oneshot but i hope you all will like this! for me, i think this is one of my best works so far. i enjoyed writing it~ anyway, enjoy reading!

once upon a time, there was a queen.

“all hail (y/n), queen of atlantis! long live the queen!”

the roar of the chant continued on, their voices muffling inside your head as you refused to look at all of them in the eyes. instead, you glanced at your father, his gaze already on yours with a troubled look on his face, one that you could say that could mirror yours.

your breathing was normal but deep inside, your heart was pounding by your chest that if someone were to come close to you, they would have been capable of knowing your fears and anxiety. but even if they looked closer, your tear-stained cheek will not be in view for it was already washed away by the water—or rather, your water. it’s yours now, you own the sea.

“what seems to be bothering you, our queen?" glancing over at one of your most loyal bodyguards, neito, you found his eyes gleaming with concern over your state. you could clearly read them well—the eyes. it's one of the perks of being a mermaid. without using your mouth, any mermaid or merman can have a conversation with either just by looking into the eyes. it's one of the advantages they have against the humans.

yet still, there are casualties in the population.

"don't mind me, monoma." you say, glancing away in hopes your emotions were kept in check, most especially now—where everyone is relying and looking up on you, with their stares and wary gazes focused on your figure, observing each and every move or expression that comes across your face.

he looks like he wanted to talk some more into you but another guard stops him, one that you could say you trust the most.

“apologies, my queen. is neito bothering you again?” kendo, your personal bodyguard. she was a commoner thus the officials did not really want her in such a high position but since your parents trusts her too, she was entitled as the “royal commander”, the guardian of the younger princess of atlantis just because everyone thought that there would be an army for the future queen and it should only be fair to have someone by the princess’ side.

how they thought so wrong.

“no worries, itsuka-chan. monoma was only asking how i was.” you answer as you look around the hall, still finding it a bit dull despite the celebratory theme of the party.

after all, what’s there to celebrate about when yo were just a replacement of a throne that was not really yours since the beginning?

“congratulations for getting the throne, princess (y/n)!”

your eyes landed upon an unpleasant sight of the siren that had been lurking around the kingdom for years.

"she is no longer a princess, dabi. please address the queen correctly." kendo scolds the man and he instantly apoogizes.

"my bad, my bad." he doesn't sound regretful at all. "it appears that your highness is still grieving for her sister and i only wanted to place a smile on her beautiful face once again."

you were trying hard not to show any kind of expression in front of everyone at his words. it was a good thing kendo stayed by your side or else you would have banished your sister's fiance instantly—rather, ex-fiance. sirens were not originally allowed to lurk with the mermen but your family allowed it because your sister claims that she loves the man.

and to think he would have became king if she indeed wed him. you were actually close to coming into conclusion that he wanted to be one, that's why he was with your sister. it could be possible but you couldn't linger in that thought for long or else you'll burst out from the thoughts that clouded your mind.

"excuse me, i need to take a breather."

"wait-your highness!"

you were already swimming away from them—from everyone. you couldn't handle it. to be crowned as queen the day after your sister was declared as dead.

it was all suffocating.

your hand reaches out into the light outside, your lips parting with a silent call—for help? redemption?

whatever it is—you just want to—

you saw how fast darkness envelops the sky from above the water, pulling you away from your train of thoughts. pursing your lips, you suspected a storm would sooner than later.

you were about to head down back to the castle when your attention was called out by a shadow that looms over your figure—something that you certainly could identify.

a ship.

memories of your sister's smile the last time you had seen her pass your mind and you were close to the temptation of that feeling that you never thought you'd ever come by—revenge by pure hatred. yes, that's it. who would have thought that you would ever hate humans?

before you could ascend further, something gets thrown into the water and you were no stupid to not think it was a human. a specie that has legs—of course.

you found yourself colliding with the figure—not too hard though. you were able to prevent it from hitting you hard, but the impact was still there at least.

it was because of his face—that face. you stared at it too long.

you had never seen a human before so you certainly had never seen anyone that could compare this one to. but he looked much like any merman would, minus the gills and the tail. were you enamored because you had never seen anyone with this kind of face? this kind of beauty?

it sooner came to you that he wouldn't be able to breathe without gills.

you have a chance of killing this human.

yet...

pulling him with you, you swam as fast as you could towards the surface, farther from the ship that he fell into. once you had gotten him out, you were able to breathe the fresh air of the outside world, giving you a sense of freedom you always feel when you go out of the water.

you didn't know what you were thinking as you placed the boy down the shore, a hand on his chest. light emitted from where your hand was and as you hovered them further up into his face, the light followed.

water came out of his mouth, just as you had intended. a sigh came out of your lips when the boy coughs and was able to breathe once again. you might have not seen a human before but you have studied them through books and asking from those who have interacted with them.

that’s why it was so hard to resent them. when you learned that your sister was killed by pirates, you couldn’t believe it. yet for some reason, you still did.

you wanted to blame someone—anyone. and that thought of killing this man earlier dawned to you that you were willing to do murder just for revenge.

your sister wouldn’t have liked that.

“who... who are you?”

when you look up to his eyes, every little thought in your mind vanishes away like fire when poured by water. you never knew anyone could have two eye colors and now that you have seen this man, you became much more fascinated.

he doesn’t move away as you lean forward and stare at the turquoise and grey of his orbs, but you could see him glance down and feel his gaze by your tail, an indication that you were not of his kind.

but he remained still.

“you’re...” he looks up again. “you’re a mermaid.”

there were no ill-tone in his voice and you begun to wonder what was on his mind as you continue to keep silent.

your skin crawled for the first time when you two gazed at each other as seconds pass by, too enamored to look away from each other.

was it the same for him? you thought. though as you were to open your mouth and speak, voices from the background catches both of your attention.

he had a troubled look on his face and you didn’t fail to notice it.

“find him! find the prince! make sure he’s dead!”

mermen had could understand human language. and you were no fool to not understand what the situation was.

your hand finds his and as he looks at you again, words slips out of your lips.

“come with me.”

questions towards yourself came as soon as you spoke. you refused to answer them and instead waited patiently for the boy.

you’d just have to make do for later.

what’s important is now. you can’t just let this boy die in front of your eyes. not when you had felt a connection with him.

he glances down at your hand that was on top of his and then made eye contact once again. he has this expression that you couldn’t read, but it only intensified the curiosity you felt towards him.

“how?” his voice was much clearer this time and you couldn’t help but notice how tingles came by your arm as you felt him interlace his fingers with yours, already deciding despite of his question.

you lean forward and he didn’t bulge. there was no fear in the hues of his eyes and all you could feel was the calmness of his soul and the fire that was on your stomach.

“you have to be a siren.” you answer, coming out as a whisper, as if it was a secret that shouldn’t be heard by anyone.

“a siren?”

you nodded, raising another hand to his chest, you felt the warmth emanating from it, much different from how a merman’s body would feel.

“what’s your name?”

“shoto. prince shoto todoroki.”

“prince.” you say, remembering back to the echoes of the voices from earlier.

nodding your head in acknowledgement, you introduced yourself curtly. “i’m (y/n).”

although after he had shook his head in response, you had pulled him backwards—towards the water, dragging him with all of your strength. he didn’t have time to struggle, and you preferred it that way.

because in order to be a siren—to let go of his humanity and become impure in front of the living, the prince has to die first.

you didn’t let go of his hands as he lost the oxygen of the above. and before he could breathe his last breath, you lean in and placed your lips on shoto. it was the very last step of living as an impure being living under the water; having the same breathe with someone who does the same—which meant you.

when you pulled away, you saw shoto’s eyes flutter open again; the once turquoise and grey were now dark, as well as the hair that were once crimson and white. he begun to mirror the features of a merman, yet with the same dullness that your sister’s fiancé has.

shoto reminded you of dabi, most probably because dabi was once a human too.

yet their features do look alike. are humans usually like this? you questioned in your mind.

a gentle squeeze on your hand alerts you of the completeness of the process, his senses coming back to life that was once dead—or much closer to death.

“i... what have you done to me?” he was breathless despite having gills and nose to breathe. though, the expression in his face told you a whole different story.

“i made you one of us now.” you say, holding tightly onto the same hand that you’d been interlaced with since earlier.

“i am the queen of atlantis. welcome to my world, prince shoto.”

[fidgetnano19]

Day 7, Part 1: Eyes to the Grave

I guess you could say that this is what happens when Fidget is scolding herself for focusing too heavily on dialogue on Day 5? I wanted to work more Einnet parts in, but it just didn't come out that way...

Griaria, 13 years ago

[[MORE]]

Marek stood quietly, eyes to the grave in front of him, careful not to bother mama during the service. She had already explained that his father wouldn't come back again, not like the times he went on long trips and gave him gifts when he returned. As for why they wouldn't see each other anymore, Marek was still a little confused about that part... something about souls, or his father being with Kea now. 

When he'd asked if he could go there, too, just to visit, mama only wept harder, squeezing him so hard to her chest that he could hardly breathe. He didn't ask that question again, or any others. Today, he was just glad she was out of bed, with her beautiful purple hair brushed and swept up on top of her head by the servants. He gripped her hand tighter every time she sniffled, silently begging her not to cry again.

Across from them, on the other side of the big, stone box, Egom Cillian stood with his family. He'd met them before, he vaguely remembered, when the new Eika was announced – Reidory. She was there, too, though she looked more like one of the children than a wife. She'd given him treats at her wedding, and told him he was pretty.

He shook his head, reminding himself to pay attention to what the man in robes was saying, even if he didn't really understand the words. He had wondered why they weren't being said in his language, but mama told him it was because of something called tradition. He had no idea what that was, but again, he was trying not to bother her with questions.

He watched Brexton's mouth move silently, mimicking the robed man's words. Did he speak tradition? His eyes – silver, like the ring on mama's hand – lifted, meeting Marek's. His mouth stopped moving, formed a soft smile.

Marek smiled back, because Brexton was nice to him at the wedding, too, taking him outside to play when he didn't want to sit still anymore. In exchange, he'd shared some of the candy Reidory had given him.

The man in robes stopped talking, and everyone took turns walking up to the large box, rubbing their hands over the smooth stone, or leaving flowers on top. Marek eyed the flowers greedily, wondering if he could take a few for himself, but he forgot all about them when mama's hands started shaking, fat tears falling from behind the black veil that covered her face.

...

"Marek!" Brexton called out to him as soon as he and mama stepped out of the coach.

Mama let go of his hand, nodding that it was alright for him to go off on his own. He watched her head inside the palace with some of his father's men, while Brexton approached him, carrying a small child in his arms. She had thick hair that looked like Marek's, and big blue eyes.

"We're going to play in the gardens." Brexton explained, nodding behind him – toward Reidory. "Do you want to come?"

He brightened, his mood lifting as he accepted Brexton's outstretched hand. It was cold, much colder than mama's, but he didn't mind it too much. "What are we playing?"

"Hmm... how about hide-away?"

"I'm really, really good at that game!"

Brexton laughed, leading him to the side of the palace.

"Brexton! If you don't put Finnoula down once in a while, she'll never learn to walk!" Reidory scolded them when they got near, wrangling the child out of his hold and setting her down on the ground. "I swear, you spoil her too much."

"It can't be helped, Kiga." Brexton shrugged his large shoulders. "She is my bond, after all. Plus, I like spoiling her." He stopped, his fingers loosening as he glanced around the garden. "Where did Torin go?"

Reidory's face clouded for a moment, reminding Marek of mama's. Her smile, when it came, was tight-lipped – like the smiles his father's men had been giving him for days.

"He said he didn't want to play." She turned to Marek, bending down to stroke her fingers through his long hair. "If it isn't my sweet little nephew! Are you going to join in?"

"He's going to be my special helper", Brexton announced, giving him a quick nudge. "How about boys against girls? We'll be 'it', first."

The other girl, who Brexton introduced as Einnet, ran off to hide along with Reidory and Finnoula. Brexton and Marek covered their eyes, counting out loud until they reached twenty-five.

They had already found Einnet, curled up under a bench, and were off looking for Reidory when a loud voice disrupted their game.

"Reidory! Where are you?!"

Brexton's eyes widened, and he tugged Marek behind a row of nearby hedges, pressing against the top of his head in a silent command to duck. "New game, Marek. We're hiding from that man, okay?"

"Why?"

Brexton placed a finger over his mouth, shushing him instead of giving him an answer.

"Reidory! Come out here, now!"

He heard a rustling sound somewhere nearby, and the sound of running feet.

"I'm right here, Lazzari. There's no need to shout."

"What are you doing out here? Look at your hair, it's a mess." There were a few moments of quiet, followed by, "We're going inside, try to behave yourself."

"But we're still play–"

There was a loud sound – like hands clapping – then quiet crying.

"Enough nonsense. You are an Eika, and you should be inside with the adults... Unless you'd rather go back home, hmm?"

"N–no, sir."

"Good, then give that thing back to Einnet and follow me."

"Who was that?" Marek asked, once Brexton stood up again, peeking carefully over the hedges.

"Reidory's egomija... and my father. Come on, let's go back to Einnet."

Marek thought Brexton would offer his hand again, but he didn't. Instead, he held his hands at his side – curled into fists, with a thin layer of ice covering them.

The frost vanished as they approached the benches, meeting up with Einnet.

"Lazzari just–"

"We heard. Aww, did he scare you, Finny?" Brexton scooped Finnoula out of her arms, cradling the small girl to his chest. "I've got you now, so don't worry." He turned his attention back to Einnet, his expression growing more serious. "You should find Torin, tell him what happened. Whatever you do, don't let Lazzari see you, got it?"

Einnet promised that she'd be careful and ran off in search of the other boy, leaving the three of them alone in the garden.

For a long while, Brexton didn't say anything, just watched her leave until they couldn't see her anymore. Finnoula squirmed in his arms, and this snapped him out of whatever he was thinking about. He shifted her weight up on his shoulder and turned back to Marek.

"We don't have enough people for hide-away, anymore, but would you like to throw some snowballs?"

Marek scrunched his face, sure that Brexton was teasing him. It wasn't anywhere near time for snow. The leaves weren't even gold yet.

Before he could point that out, Brexton set the baby on the ground. He pulled a small stick out of his pocket, and waved it through the air. Marek could hardly believe his eyes. Snow! All over the ground at their feet, and it was the perfect sort for building or throwing.

"Can you really make snow, just like that?" Marek asked, staring up at him with the most intense admiration he'd ever felt in his young life.

"It's not a big deal, really. I have an ice mija, so I can do things like this." He bent down, encouraging Finnoula to touch the fluffy white snow. "Someday, I'll use it to protect Finny, here. Your mother has a bond, doesn't she?"

Marek thought hard, but he couldn't recall knowing anybody like that. Here in the palace, there were only the servants, and father's men. "I don't think so."

"Brex!" The other boy, the one with the fiery red hair – just like Reidory's, skidded to a stop right at the edge of the snow, frowning down at them. "He'll catch you, you know."

"We're just having a little fun. Besides, he already went in."

"Did he– he took Dory in with him?"

Brexton tucked the wand away, busying himself with collecting snow in his big hands. "Yeah, a little bit ago. Scolded her for playing with us, then dragged her away to be with the adults. Didn't Einnet tell you as much?"

"She did." He nudged a small pile of snow with the toe of his boot, staring down at the pattern his sole left behind. "It's fine, isn't it? She's one of them now."

Brexton frowned, standing to hurl the snowball at the older boy's face. "I hate it when you sound like him."

Marek tried to ignore their bickering, gathering up snow to form something resembling a brick. It was hard to do, especially with Finnoula trying to 'help', but he managed it. After that, he made another, and another, creating a ring with them.

"Do what you want..." Torin said, eventually, storming away.

"Idiot." Brexton mumbled it, but Marek heard it well enough. "How about that snowball fight, now?"

Marek nodded enthusiastically, crushing one of his bricks to make the first ball, his sad attempt at building a castle completely forgotton.

They played outside until the servants called them in for dinner. Brexton made all of the snow vanish with just a snap of his fingers, which Marek thought was an even better trick than when he'd made it appear in the first place.

"Brexton?"

"You can just call me Brex. Almost everyone does."

"Brex..." He tried it out, deciding he liked it much better. "How come Reidory doesn't want to go home?" He walked alongside Brexton, hopping over the cracks in the cobblestone.

"She's afraid of the dogs."

"Oh..." He didn't really understand why anyone would be afraid of dogs, or what that had to do with going home, but he pretended to. There were lots of things he was afraid of, so it made a little sense.

They were sat around a big table, with more food than Marek thought he'd ever seen before in his life being served on the good, silver dishes. Marek picked a seat between Brexton and Einnet, and the two of them snuck their vegetables onto his plate, saying he'd get big if he ate them. He could tell it was a trick, but he ate them anyway.

"Getting tired?" Brexton cocked his head to peek down at him, letting Marek lean against his arm.

"A little. Are you staying here tonight?"

"Yup. It's a long way back to Terracia, so we're not leaving until morning."

"Will you sleep in my room? I used to sleep with mama, but she won't let me anymore."

Brexton looked around the table, like he wanted to ask someone about it, but didn't know who. "Sure."