#and maybe my old computer but... shh..

[buwheal]

if you keep eating from the trash, you'll get food poisoning. most of the food is probably rotten, that's why it's in the trash there's also a possibility that a maus got it's saliva all over what you're eating you could also get a virus if the food's contaminated with malware because someone sick ate some of it

[pinkynana]

am i the asshole for being possessive about my childhood friend's virginity?

Summary: It has been awhile since you last met renjun. Perhaps your last encounter was right after graduation. You’re back in your old neighborhood, having drinks with your favorite childhood best friend. And it slipped out of you that you had never had sex, despite a whole semester in college. Renjun took that as an invitation. Afterall, you experienced every one of your firsts with Renjun.

word count: 2k

warnings: noncon to dubcon, dacryphyllia, bondage, possessive renjun, fake sympathy, creampie.

tell me if i missed anything.

It feels good to open up the window and see that familiar face of your best friend since diapers. Renjun was already smiling at you the moment you slid your curtains away. “It’s been so long!” He yelled. He had to, considering the few meters of distance between his window and yours. You noticed that he was still in a suit, probably just got home from some important business. “I know right! Wanna grab some drinks?” 

“Oh, I already have some in my room.” 

“Really? Well in that case..” 

You stepped backwards into your bedroom, just to sprint, jumping out of your window, landing on the roof of Renjun’s first floor. With that safe land, you crawled up to Renjun’s window, welcoming yourself inside as if the room was your own. “Still crazy as always I see.” he giggled. 

“Wouldn't be me if it isn’t crazy.” 

-

Renjun had your first kiss. 

At 16, you still had a crush on Tobey Maguire’s spiderman although Andrew Garfield already had two amazing spiderman movies. You skipped evening class to watch the rerun of the first three spiderman movies. Renjun came with. He didn't have evening class like you did. He didn't need them, he’s smart unlike you. 

Once the movies were over, you refused to go home. You knew you'd earn an earful and maybe some beatings once you get home because your mom would be furious that you had skipped class just to watch movies. Instead, you were at the playground, climbing on the monkey bars. 

“It’s getting late, y’know.” Renjun waited for you, sitting at the swings. “Renjun! Come join me! I feel like Spiderman. Do you think there's a spidergirl out there, maybe?” You never touched a marvel comic, obviously. Renjun huffed when you ignored his comment. He did, however, come towards you. He didn't climb the bars though. He let you have all the fun to yourself. He watched as you hung your feet on the bar as you let your body dangling upside down. You let out a laugh. 

“Wouldn't it be cool to have my first kiss just like the upside down kiss from the movie?” He didn't answer, which concerned you. “Renjun?”

Before you knew it, he cupped your face as he planted a kiss right there where you were hanging your body upside down on the monkey bars. 

The next day you pretended like it never happened and continued being his best friend as usual. 

-

The first time you watched porn, it was with Renjun. You were only 16, receiving a usb drive that may or may not give your computer a virus from a fellow classmate. As soon as your extracurricular activities ended, you ran straight to Renjun’s room. He had gone home earlier as he wasn't involved in the same club as you. You slammed the door shut behind you, hugging your backpack against your chest. 

“What are you doin-”

“Shh!” You locked the door of his bedroom. “Take out your laptop.” you ordered him, walking towards his study desk as your hand took out the pendrive from your bag. you tossed the bag to his bed. Renjun didn't question you when he took out his laptop. He only did when you suddenly plugged in the drive into it without telling you what it was. 

“Hey! What is that?” 

“Porn.” 

“What? Are you serious?” 

“Well, it might not be. I won't take the risk on my laptop though.” He groaned once he figured out your plan. You were afraid that the drive you received might give your laptop a virus so you risked it on his instead. How typical of you. “Why are you interested in that anyway?” The file was right in front of your eyes when he asked that. “Because..” You clicked on the first folder.” “I’m curious.” Renjun rolled his eyes at your answer. He leaned back against his chair as you did what you wanted on his laptop. The video started to play and you took a seat on his bed. You partially heard Renjun saying something to you but you were too focused on the two actors on his screen. You involuntarily gasped when the man inserted his penis into the woman's vagina. The sound out of you made Renjun turn his head and you held a second of eye contact with him. 

That eye contact suddenly made you realize how invasive you were and how intimate this whole action is. You shouldn't be watching porn with Renjun. Sure, he's your best friend but he's still a man. The realization made you stand on your feet, grabbing your backpack with you. 

“I fulfilled my curiosity. Gotta go. Bye!” You wore your backpack as you ran towards his bedroom door to leave. “Wait, what about the drive?!” He yelled as you had already exited the room 

“Keep it!”

-

The first friendship breakup was also with Renjun. You were both 17 when you fought about Renjun’s choice for college. He wanted to try for early admissions while you were still struggling to choose a course, let alone a college to aim for. It was too early to think about life after highschool, according to you. 

Early in the morning, when usually you would either ride on the backseat of Renjun’s bike, you rode on your own bike. You purposely waited for Renjun to come out so it’ll look like you two had coincidentally come out at the same time. You glared at him before you took your seat and started paddling to school. 

What upsetted you more was the fact that Renjun paddled faster as he slid right past you, not even looking your way. 

By the time you arrived at the bike parking, Renjun was seen leaning against the wall, looking like he was waiting for you. That warmed up your heart a bit. You locked your bike in then came to him. “You got something to say to me?” You raised an eyebrow at him, trying to look cool. “Yeah, I got in.” 

Your face dropped. “See you at your graduation, y/n.” 

Truth be told, that was probably your first heartbreak. 

-

You cried in front of Renjun for the first time (not including the time when you were kids) when he actually showed up to your highschool graduation. You didn't look for your parents when you stepped on the stage. Your eyes scanned the audience to look for your best friend who said he'd meet you again today. But he was nowhere to be seen. You tried to brush it off, not letting it ruin your memorable day. As you took a picture with your mom, you see a familiar figure walking towards you, holding a bouquet of flowers. Without even realizing, tears had started to fall from your eyes. You didn't waste any time running to him, giving him a big hug. And he wrapped his arms around you so perfectly too. You sobbed messily in between your tears. 

“We never even said goodbye.. I never even apologized.. I was so immature.. I mean, it was just a few months ago, but still!.. I’m older and wiser now.” You huffed, sobbed, sniffed and maybe even hiccuped. 

Renjun just laughed at your state. You knew that he would forgive you in a heartbeat, as long as you said you were sorry. 

“I’m sorry, Renjun. I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I was such a dick to you, I’m so sorry,” 

-

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry..” Now, he was on top of you with your wrists tied on his bed frame with his neck tie that he was wearing just a few minutes ago. His shirt was unbuttoned and he had taken off your shorts just now. “Renjun, you're being scary..” Without even realizing, tears had started to fall from your eyes. Renjun leaned down to kiss your cheek where your tears ended. 

“I’m sorry, I just..” One of his hands caressed your face while the other started unbuckling his belt. “Please don't be scared of me. I just have to do this. I gotta be your first.” This was nowhere near the Renjun you knew and grew up with. If he was gentle with it, if he was maybe romantic with it, then you would probably allow this to happen. But this isn't the caring gentleman you were best friends with. You had no clue who this man before you was. “Fuck, you look so pretty crying.” You noticed how hard he was once he took his slacks and his boxers off. 

“Renjun, I’m scared.” You whimpered, hoping to gain mercy from him. “No no no no, baby. Don't be scared.” He gave your lips a peck. “Trust me, baby. You trust me, right?” Again, if he had been gentle with you, you probably would have nodded your head. Instead you shook it furiously, “Renjun, please.. I’ll- I’ll suck your cock, or.. or I’ll give you a handjob. Just, please don't fuck me.” 

“No.. please. As much as that sounds tempting, I need to fuck you. I’ve always been your first. Remember? Just trust me.” He wiped away your tears with his thumb. And with that same thumb, he reached down to your pussy as he started to rub your clit in circles, making sure that you’d start to get wet. You squirmed at the pleasure that you wish never came. “There.. See? You like it.” After he was sure you were wet enough, he took your panties off with one swift. 

“Your pussy is excited to see me, baby.” You looked away in embarrassment at his comment. He slid a finger from your hole to your clit, collecting your pussy juice as he licked it off. He then jerked himself off a few times before he aligned his tip on your pussy. “Trust me, okay?” He said before he slid in with a groan. “Perfect fucking pussy.” He moaned. 

At this point, you knew there was no escaping anymore. Might as well enjoy it while it lasted. You closed your eyes shut, trying to imagine that Renjun was someone else. But no matter how hard you tried, you couldn't think of anyone. Because deep down, you always knew that you had liked Renjun for a long time. Though this wasn't the ideal situation, you always wanted it to happen. More tears started to fall out as you felt ashamed of yourself for feeling good from his thrust. “Fuck.. I get harder the more you cry, baby. You're such a pretty crier.” With his cussing, he went on faster and harder, earning loud moans from you. 

You felt Renjun getting sloppier by the minute and you guessed that it was because he was close and you started to panic. “Renjun.. Renjun.. pull out! We have no protection. Don't cum inside of me! Please, Renjun.” But all you received from him was more groans and cusses. “Just.. just trust me. It’ll be fine. I’m sorry, trust me.” The more he said the word trust, the smaller the trust you actually had for him. But all you could do was let him fuck your wet pussy since you're too weak to even pull yourself out of the knot that Renjun tied above your head. 

And just in a few more thrusts, he had poured his semen into you. With jagged breaths, he still muttered some more apologies to you but you paid it no mind. It’s not like he actually meant it anyway. 

He planted one more kiss on your lips before he pulled out and laid beside you on his bed. He untied the necktie away from you but you still couldn't break free as he wrapped his arm around you, pulling you close and hugging you tight. “I’m sorry, angel.” he said again. He caressed your hair, fixing up any messy strands. “I’ll get you cleaned, okay?” With that, he picked you up and took you to his bathroom where he cared for you like the Renjun you always knew your whole life. 

[poppadom0912]

Med Students

Characters: Jay Halstead x Reader, Will Halstead

Warnings: Brief mentions of surgery, gossiping/backbiting, scary attendings

Summary: Stupid students don't gossip quiet enough.

A/N: This isn't exactly what I planned. Not too sure if I like it but it is what it is I guess. I'm posting this in commemoration of the last day of Christmas break. I'm very much not looking forward to getting back to normal life.

*****

Strolling into the moderately quiet ED, Jay was pleasantly surprised at the volume and the lack of people sitting in the waiting room. Spying Will behind a computer doing he's not too sure what, he walked up to him, nudging him with his elbow.

"Hey, you know where Y/N is?" Jay asked, leaning his back against the desk as his eyes inspected the ED.

"Hey Will, how are you brother? How's your day? How's work? You good?" Will sarcastically replied, changing his tone as he imitated Jay. "It's good to see you too Jay."

"What's up Will?" Jay rolled his eyes, caving into his older brothers 'wants and needs'. He was on a schedule and it needed to be followed because if he wasn't back at work in an hour, Voight would probably have his head.

"Mrs Halstead is currently in surgery, she might be a minute but you shoulda seen the guy." Will started gushing, lowkey geeking out on the patient that was brought in. "He was pushed onto the road, had like threes cars max run over him and he somehow is still alive and breathing. Her and Connor have been in their for two hours now, who knows when they'll finish."

"Thanks man." Jay said, clapping Will on the shoulder but either brother made indication that they were moving, Will was doing his patients charts and Jay had nowhere else to be for the next hour.

"I've heard they're called the 'Amok'."

"But we're doctors?"

"I know right, that's what I said!"

"Omg, how could they let a dude like that teach a bunch of students?"

"I knew I should've gone to Lakeshore."

Jay rose his brow in suspicion and curiosity. Looking over at the small group of young adults, standing not too far from where the brothers stood since they could clearly make out their whispers. It was clear that were out of their league.

"And who are they?" Jay asked, crossing his arms, not realising that his action made his badge and gun stand out more than they already were.

Will looked up from the computer, following Jay's line of sight before shaking his head, huffing with some sort of smile. "It's that time of year again, we get sent a bunch of students and Y/N decided that she'd give them a try instead of Ethan. Something about doing it before he got here and missing teaching."

"Huh." Jay said to himself, not recalling you telling him anything about this. If you'd been this excited about teaching, he was sure you'd be gushing about it to him several times over most meals you shared.

"Maybe he's hot."

"Or he's old and a creep."

"What if he's a pedo?!"

"Then he'd be fired Janet. Have you seen Ms Goodwin, cause she's scary."

"What if the 'Amok' is a woman?"

...

"Maybe she's hot."

"Or she's really nice and totally not strict."

"We'll have this year in the bag, easy."

"What if she'd like a young doctor? Look around us and there's plenty of young docs."

"Are you trying to get into her pants? Ew dude!"

"Heck yeah man!"

Now, Jay was ticked. These kids were speculating and it totally would've been fine if they weren't making such comments, especially about his wife. Will also caught on, rolling his eyes, sharing Jay's frustration.

While the students were surveying the ED as they gossiped, they lay eyes on Jay and before any comment could be made on his gorgeous appearance, they caught sight of his gun and badge sitting on his belt.

"Shit, what's a fed doing here?"

"He's hot."

"Him next to doctor Halstead, my ovaries."

"Shh, you're so loud!"

"Anyways, back to the sexy doctor we were talking bout..."

Jay scoffed, more than ready to go up to the kids so he could give them a piece of his mind. Normally, he would've let such petty things get under his skin but these students caught him on the wrong day.

Before Jay could even take a step towards the huddled group, from the corner of his eyes he found the only woman that he loved more than life itself.

You were back in your maroon scrubs, your surgical cap still on your head since you just came back from giving the wife the good news. With the brightest smile on your face, so bright that it could brighten up the darkest of rooms.

The students were obviously doing worse at whispering then they thought. At the same time, you found Jay and the med students that would be shadowing you for the next year.

At the sight of your husband, your smile only got bigger, almost chuckling at your handsome man who looked so delicious but even with most the tension gone from his body, you noticed his crossed arms. Your brother-in-law, who stood besides Jay, wasn't looking in your direction but instead, was glaring at the young adults.

Following his line of sight, you beamed at the students, your excitement causing your smile to widen even further than it already was. Before you could introduce yourself, only taking a few steps towards them, you caught them mid through their conversation.

"50 she'll flirt back."

"You're on."

"Don't be such pigs. The name 'Amok' sounds pretty masculine to me."

"Either way, they're going to kill us."

"That surgeon is hot."

Your smile fell faster than a pulse would if burst a vessel. It seemed that by doing so, you caught the attention of nearly the entire ED, everyone somehow sensing the sudden drop in your mood; the air must've shifted or something.

"And she's staring right at us."

"Oh shit."

"That's it, we're fucked."

"Oh my Gosh, it's her."

"It's been great knowing you guys."

"No it hasn't."

Raising your brows, you inspected the group of students heavily, finding it funny how they shrunk under your scrutinising eyes. It was somewhat entertaining watching them squirm but you'd have a better 'punishment' for them later down the line for their gossiping.

"I want you guys to stick by Maggie's hip. She wants something done, it gets done beyond outstanding standards. I don't care if she wants you getting coffee, you do it. Understood?" You said sternly, leaving no room for any objections.

In sync, they all nodded their heads, instantly agreeing with you even if they weren't happy with their given roles for their first day on the job.

With a smirk, you watched them scurry away towards the charge nurse who was waiting for them. A knowing look in her eyes, a hand on her hip as she smiled and winked at you from afar. You'd find yourself listening to her retell their day at Molly's tonight.

With the students out of your sight, you spun around and your face lit up at the sight of your husband. Despite the dark colours he wore in comparison to your brother-in-law, you noticed and ran to him first.

"Husband!" You wrapped your arms around him tightly, sighing in content when he enveloped you in his, his cologne drowning your senses. You briefly heard Will say something along the lines of no one cared about him before he left you two alone, something about he knew how single he was without it being shoved in his face.

"Wife." Jay kissed your temple, tightening his arms around you. He would proudly say it any day that he was proud of you and found it amusing to watch you boss around the younger doctors.

"How long have you been waiting?" You asked, pulling away from him but not too far so he could still have his arms around you. Hopefully he hadn't been waiting too long and you could still have lunch together before it got too late.

"Long enough to hate those kids guts." Jay pouted slightly, squinting his eyes almost threateningly in remembrance of what was said about you. "Was this close to telling them your the wife of a detective so they'd back off."

"My hero." You pretended to swoon, cheekily smiling at his faux hurt expression. "What would I do without you."

"Forget to eat your lunch, that's what." Jay said, indirectly reminding you that lunch still needed to be eaten.

"Yes! To the cafeteria we go." You smiled, pecking him on the cheek before grabbing his hand, intertwining your fingers with his so you could leave the ED together.

From the corner of your eye, you could feel several eyes following you and Jay as you left and without looking back, you knew who it was. You were sure that tomorrow, you'd be spoken to with much more respect and wariness than what you witnessed today.

The students wouldn't make that mistake again, especially in front of your husband.

[goodnightmemes]

BONES SENTENCE STARTERS / s01e015 - s01e17

❛ It's fascinating how interests and intimacy can be cultivated online. ❜

❛ Cement shoes, pretty trite. ❜

❛ So what if your computer date's a psycho? ❜

❛ You know, what ever happened to seeing someone across a crowded room, eyes meeting, that old black magic gets you in its spell... ❜

❛ Don't go overboard with psychology. It's not your thing. ❜

❛ Look, I am an adult. I see men. I go out with them on occasion. I sleep with them. ❜

❛ You know it wouldn't be difficult to someone to encode a secure data strip implant it on an ID card with a correct digitally encoded authentication data and sneak in here. ❜

❛ I know it's hard for you to admit you're wrong about something but I really don't care about your feelings right now, I'm more concerned with your life.

❛ I'm not letting you out of my sight until I find out who is trying to kill you. ❜

❛ Hey, [name] is a big strong hot guy who wants to save your life. I mean you actually have a knight in shining FBI standard issued body armor, so cut him some slack. ❜

❛ Is that why you brought me here, to scare me into giving up? ❜

❛ I can give you answers. I can help you. You really want me to walk away because it's dangerous? ❜

❛ Is that the psycho? ❜

❛ A person's environment is a reflection of who he is. ❜

❛ You think you're staying here with me? ❜

❛ Let's talk revenge, bloodlust. ❜

❛ I'm just thinking people don't really change. We like to believe they do but they don't. ❜

❛ You're feeling something a little more devious, more like a frame up. Oh I like it, very conspiratorial. ❜

❛ People never tell me I'm right. They only say I'm crazy. Love you, man. ❜

❛ Maybe that nurse was right to be pissed that you were leaving. You don't seem good. ❜

❛ How could it not be my fault? It was my job to protect her. ❜

❛ So my death will be justified now? ❜

❛ Well at least then I'm dying for a good reason. ❜

❛ This conspiracy thing is a lot more intense when you're in the middle of it. ❜

❛ It's okay. I'm right here. It's all over. Okay. Shh. I'm right here, alright. ❜

❛ You saved my life. ❜

❛ May I borrow your gun? ❜

❛ We've been working together for months. A little trust would be nice. ❜

❛ You don't just go running after guys into the dark. ❜

❛ You get invested in your work, time has a way of getting away from you. ❜

❛ What, so,  you gonna tell me, uh, "I know what you been through. I been there, too, you know? I know how you ended up how you ended up". You telling me that? ❜

❛ You did what a soldier had to do. ❜

❛ Yeah. You know... I was a good soldier. I was a very good soldier - but a pretty bad human being. ❜

❛ You know what? I think it's best I not talk about this anymore. Not cause any more trouble. I... I got to go. ❜

❛ You haven't eaten anything all day. Now, I have some killer yellowtail here and spicy tuna rolls. ❜

❛ Time gets away from me sometimes. ❜

❛ I wish you were a little more scared. ❜

❛ Those are rhetorical questions I'm not supposed to answer, right? ❜

❛ There's always going to be casualties. The important thing is to recognize the enemy, and take him out so more people don't get hurt. ❜

❛ Okay, that, what you just said right there - that was cynical. It was glib and cynical. ❜

❛ If you really want to know what I've done, I'll tell you, but you better be ready for the truth. ❜

❛ You're hiding. You have to face your demons. ❜

❛ I like it. Someone's honest, says the truth. You don't lie, I guess. ❜

❛ Can I just have a gun at least until they get here? It's not for shooting rats. It's for psychos with climbing axes. ❜

❛ We go in there, you are responsible for whoever is on your left. Okay, you put your gun on him. ❜

❛ Wondering whether or not to shoot, you shoot. ❜

❛ Who vacations in the desert? It's like lunching at the dump. ❜

❛ You're really sending me mixed messages. ❜

❛ Yeah, well, I'm freaking out, I guess. I'm sorry. Look, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have called. Pretend I didn't call. ❜

❛ You won't get anything out here. We're about a hundred miles past where Jesus lost his sandals.

❛ If you hug me and you be all caring it's because you think [name] is dead. ❜

❛ I want you to get federal on his ass. ❜

❛ The suns's been up for an hour out there. It's already the surface of Mercury. ❜

❛ No offense to you, but you are a stodgy traditionalist when it comes to relationships, buddy. ❜

❛ Let's rush him. He can't shoot us both. ❜

❛ You point your gun at everyone who comes by? ❜

❛ Okay, we got that one wrong. ❜

❛ Okay, who are you, Dr. Phil? ❜

❛ Who's Dr. Phil? Some kind of expert? ❜

❛ Now he's gone and I feel like I can't even breathe. I can't even take a breath. ❜

❛ He said that if you stood still long enough, that the desert would actually speak to you. Show you some kind of truth. ❜

❛ Maybe he deserved more, not my place to say, but he couldn't have done better. No man could. ❜

❛ My lungs are gonna come out through my throat. ❜

❛ If you expect to win arguments around here, you'll need at least one doctorate. ❜

❛ I'm just afraid that I don't have a generous heart. ❜

❛ I'm afraid that I won't have the chance that I had with [name] ever again. ❜

❛ Nothing in this universe happens just once. Infinity goes in both directions. There is no unique event, no singular moment. ❜

❛ I promise from my heart. You will get another chance. ❜

[xexiar]

A Little Hiccup

Ao3

-----

Ok, I can do this. I made a promise to that skinny jean bastard of a hero. All I have to do is try. But why that, of all things? Do I really have to do this? Sure, he said I should try to communicate my thoughts and feelings. Let alone try starting a conversation instead of letting one happen. Yet, why can’t I just open the door?

I can clearly hear the old man typing away at his computer behind the study’s doors. But yet all I could do was just stand here. I could feel my body shaking as it became difficult to breathe. It didn’t help that I could feel my nails digging into my skin as I tightened my fist. And why the hell am I crying?

It’s just the old man. He’s nothing like the hag. I have nothing to worry about. It's not like he’ll hit me or yell. Heck, he’s almost always calm and quiet. But the rare times he did raise his voice or harden his tone, I was always left in fear. Yet, right now, what would be the possibility of such a thing happening?

What if I’m interrupting his work? That’s the one rule in this house that has never changed. When dad is working in his study, I am not allowed inside. I am not supposed to disturb him. But it’s Friday. I know he doesn’t work tomorrow. I know he should be off the clock by now. Yet, maybe I should wait till dinner time.

No! I can’t do that. The old hag would be home by then. And I would miss my one chance to ask him. But why is it so hard to just lift up my arm and knock on the door? I technically won’t be going in if I just knock. He can easily tell me that he’s busy. At that, would that small action be considered me trying? I just have to knock and get it done with. But I just can’t get myself to move.

As the tears ran down my face, I tried to keep quiet. What if my hiccupping is too loud and distracts dad? He will get mad at me. I don’t want that. I can easily deal when the old hag gets angry. Especially since I already know the drill. If she’s not in the same room as me, I have a faint chance of running to my room. But if I can’t, I just have to keep my head down and take whatever happens. Yet, with dad, I never know how to respond. It’s so random and rare that it’s more terrifying than mom’s anger.

That’s it! I can’t take it anymore! As I try to get my body to start moving away, the door opens. “Katsuki?”

Crap! He heard me. “I’m sorry.” Before I could get a chance to run away, I felt my body being wrapped in warmth.

“It’s ok. It’s ok. Shh.” I could feel my back being rubbed as dad’s voice tried to soothe me. “You did nothing wrong.” A few moments went by as I tried my best to stop crying. When I’m just left in soft hiccups, the old man pulls away so that I can see his face. “Did you need something, kiddo?”

Before I could even speak, dad pulled me into his office and had me sitting on one of the sofas. “I hope I didn’t disturb your work.”

“Nonsense. I wasn’t doing anything important. Is there something you wanted to ask?” I quickly nodded my head. “What is it, kiddo?”

I tried to brace myself as I straightened up to look at my dad’s face. “Can we spend time together tomorrow? Just you and me?” I watched as his face went into that big smile of his. Something about whenever he had that smile always made me happy. And right now, I really needed it.

“Of course, we can. Is there anything you want to do?”

“I don’t know. I wasn’t sure if you would have agreed.”

Dad placed a hand on my cheek as I watched his smile turn sad. I hated that smile. It always felt like I was the one who made him sad. Especially after I would try so hard at everything. “You know I could never say no to you.” That was a lie. The old man had said no plenty of times. Even on days when I knew he would have had time to spend with me.

I quickly looked away. “Can we make clothes together? Or cook?” I wish I could ask about a camping trip. But those had to be planned months in advance. All because of his job and my school schedule.

“How about both?”

…

Come Saturday morning, I made sure to wake up extra early. Since I knew dad always woke at 4 a.m., no matter what day of the week it was. Once I went through my usual Saturday morning routine, I went to the basement. That old man’s mornings were always the same. He worked out, showered, and then cooked breakfast. Anything after that depended on whether he worked or not.

Once I got to our gym, I sat by the wall next to the door. This was another one of those things that went along with not disturbing the old man. Working out is just the same as his work in the study. It takes a lot of focus and energy. I knew my old man’s routine down to memory. He would work out for about an hour before taking a 10-minute shower. And since he always prepped the night before, cooking didn’t take much time.

If one step of his routine was ruined, the quiet man of a father I knew became someone else. Sometimes even the hag’s rampage would seem like child play. I would rather deal with the hag’s nagging and whenever she was angry.

As I watch dad finish his set of pull-ups, my thoughts wander to the clothes I recently bought. What would he think of them? Would he even approve of some of the things I got? Not like either of my parents ever told me I couldn’t dress a certain way. But they sure made it clear I had to keep a certain image. After all, being a son of people in the fashion industry, people do tend to judge what we wear. Along with being judged on how we carry ourselves.

I’m glad I had my headphones and phone with me. Watching the old man work out was boring. But I couldn’t join because it would set him off. Yet, instead of going on VTube, I started to set up a few profiles on those apps everyone from class was on. I’m still not sure if I should do this. Maybe if I kept my account private, it wouldn’t matter as much. Oh! I could ask Best Jeanist more about this. Since he is all about image and is a model.

As the old man got everything ready to make breakfast, is when the hag showed up. I watched as she hugged dad from the back before saying good morning. “The grocery list is next to your purse.”

“I’ll grab those on the way home. Any fabric samples you like me to look out for?” Watching my parents talk amongst themselves like this was just gross. Whenever they were affectionate in front of me, it felt weird to look at. The way the old hag would hug the old man and drop kisses on his back. Sometimes if I didn’t look away fast enough I would witness them kissing.

“What the fuck.”

At that, the old hag looked over at me. She still hugged dad, and had a smile. Well, thankfully, that meant she was in a good mood. “Do you want anything while I’m out running errands, brat?”

Is this another chance to practice what my hero mentor advised? Maybe I should give it a shot. Probably with something small that I know mom wouldn’t get angry about. “Some of my favorite spicy chips? If not, maybe a new hot sauce to try?”

I then watched as the hag unwrapped herself from the old man and walked over to the table. Why was I getting nervous as I watched her sit down? She didn’t have any signs of being mad, upset, or even happy. In fact, she had this neutral expression that scared me to no end. I could never tell how a conversation was going to go when she held that face. “Are you speaking about that new hero chili sauce that recently came out?” I quickly nod my head. “I see why not. Maybe you and Masaru could use it in tonight’s dinner.” That is when she smiled.

…

After the hag left, it was just me and the old man. “Did you have any clothes project you had in mind, Katsuki?”

I looked at dad as I wondered what I should do. There was always trying to finish that one project I started during spring break. But there was also wanting to attempt to tell him about the clothes I bought. Well, if it’s just us, maybe I could try that thing Best Jeanist started telling me about. “I told you how I went to the mall last weekend?”

“Yeah. Did you buy anything? Would like my help adjusting anything to fit better? Or is it that you want help using whatever you bought for the project you started on?”

I just started walking to my room. Thankfully dad was right behind me. I still wasn’t sure about this. But maybe it’ll be better if I just showed him. When we reached my bedroom door, I turned to face him. “Wait here. I’ll go grab it.” I entered my room and closed my door. I couldn’t risk him learning of my secret hiding place.

I went about my closet and pulled out the bags from that store. Sorting through everything, I made sure to put back the makeup and jewelry. I even put back the stuff I got from the female section. I’m not sure how my parents would react to that. So I’ll play it safe for now. Once I was sure everything was hidden in place, I grabbed the few items and left my room. “What do you think?” I handed the old man the clothes.

I couldn’t tell what he was thinking as he held each item. As I watched him look at the ripped jeans, I started to feel nervous. These were so out of my usual that I wasn’t sure if he would approve. “The material seems like the kind that you tend to complain that it’s itchy. Do want help making this style in a different fabric?” Is that it? Was that all he was going to say? He’s not mad that the jeans were ripped up and not uniformed. “Now, about the fishnet shirt.”

“I’m sorry. I’ll get rid of it right away.” I went to try to get it back from dad, but he held out his hand.

“Katsuki, calm down. Let me finish speaking.” I leaned against my door as I kept my head low. This can’t be good. I knew it. I’m in trouble. When he tells the old hag, I won’t hear the end of it. What if I won’t be allowed to buy clothes on my own anymore? Or worse! The only clothes I will be allowed is whatever they get me. “Katsuki!”

I quickly looked up. It was then that I realized that I was having trouble breathing. And how tears were running down my face. “Yes, sir.”

“Katsuki,” I looked at dad’s face. I wasn’t sure what expression he had. But all I knew was that I felt frozen in place. This was a bad idea. “I was trying to ask if you had any idea of an outfit for this shirt. Was there an outfit you got inspired by? Plus, I’m not sure about this fabric. Or how large the mesh is. Would you like to buy a new fishnet shirt together after you tell me what you had planned with it?”

I reached out my shaky hand to grab the shirt back. But the old man kept it out of reach. What could I say to get it back? This was a bad idea, and now it was too late to take it all back. What should I say? “I… Um…” I took a deep breath before looking up at dad. “I need to think about it. Can I get the shirt back until I figure it out?”

I watched as dad let out a sign before handing me the shirt. “I’ll wait for you in the sewing room so we can work on the jeans.” I simply nodded my head. Once he left down the stairs, I ran into my room and locked my door.

After hiding the shirt, I went and grabbed my All Might doll. I couldn’t help but scream into him. What is wrong with me?

…

When I got into the sewing room, I spotted dad looking at a few spare fabrics he had. It’s not unheard of that he would have all sorts of fabrics. Especially when he had to make last-minute adjustments on his off days. Or whenever he would have some free time and wanted to make something for all of us. He was, after all, the one who designed my winning dresses for the beauty pageant. “I’m here.”

I walked over to where the old man was standing. “Since this is for you. How about you pick what fabric you want to use.”

As dad showed me how to make a pattern for the jeans, it was quiet between us. When it came to these things, there was no need to speak. It was nice to do stuff like this with him. I just wish it didn’t start the way it did. Not like the old man wouldn’t have invited me to work on clothes with him. But it was the first time I asked him.

We finished the base for the jeans just in time for lunch. While we went about setting up for lunch, I expected it would be quiet between us. But I was wrong. “So, you decided to do your internship with Best Jeanist. How is that going for you?”

“It’s alright. Very annoying.”

“Oh. How so, kiddo?”

“He keeps talking nonsense and messes with my hair. And when we go on patrol, it’s so boring.”

“So, he’s the reason for the new hairstyle. Me and your mother thought it looked good on you. But I understand. Your hair is just one of the things that you’re proud of.” I quickly turned around and pointed a figure at the old man.

“You and the hag been making fun of me, too!”

He just shook his head. “We aren’t making fun of you. Why would we? You look great in just about everything. So, we’re just enjoying seeing our son trying new things.” The old man then placed the vegetables on the corner. So, I started cutting away.

[virgo-dream]

It's a long list of writer asks so I asked a bunch: 4, 6, 15, 16, 29, 30, 50, 73, and 77

Oh TJ!!! Thank you for sending so many in, I feel special fr fr 🥺🥺🥺🥺

4. How do you choose which fics to write?

Whatever I cannot avoid thinking about 24/7. Just something that I NEED to get on paper.

6. What’s the last line you wrote?

"Dream." Hob's voice was soft, nearly a whisper. He placed his hands over Dream's ears gently, causing Dream to shake all over. "Hey, shh… it's me, It's Hob. Your Hob. Your friend."

(Guess what fic this is)

15. What’s your favorite time to write?

Whenever is the most inconvenient to me, which is the same time I make edits (usually in the middle of the night).

16. Do you write by hand, on your phone, or on your laptop?

Phone when the idea first strikes, and if I like it I finish and edit on my computer. Haven’t been able to do either lately because of back pain, so I guess I have to strengthen my back muscles to keep writing Dream of The Endless getting soft kisses lol

29. What’s something about your writing that you’re proud of?

Going inside that say wet cat brain and inhabiting it for the duration of the fic. I like knowing the characters deep down and I’m proud to be able to do it!

30. How much do you edit your fics?  Do you edit as you write or wait until you finish the first draft?

It depends!!! If it’s just a silly lil thing, I’ll look it over and make sure there isn’t anything too absurd (spoiler: there always is and I always miss it). If it’s a longer piece (say, over 10k? That’s long for me), I’ll have Chi look it over for me. He’s the best editor EVER (and most of what I write is for him anyway).

50. How would you describe your writing style?

“Can’t pay for therapy right now so this will have to do”

73. What do you tend to get complimented on the most about your writing?

It’s been so long since I’ve written anything (I think months now?) that I genuinely don’t remember what people like about my writing lol I think I’m good with fluff and people enjoy the emotion in the text, maybe?

77. Why do you enjoy writing fanfiction?

It’s nice to play in someone else’s sandbox!! Putting that old man in Situations!!! But most importantly, experimentation. There isn’t one right or wrong way to write for yourself (arguably to write, period), and it’s a way to know yourself better. I guess that’s the gist of it!

[sixpossumsinatrenchcoat]

The things we leave behind: MISERY

In part 4 (of 6) of my post-true end Headspace AU, Hero grapples with his past. Sunny grapples with Omori. (Hero & Sunny's siblinghood is very important to me!!!! So you can expect this one to be silly & sad in equal measure.) You can start from Chapter 1 here: ao3.org/works/45213322/chapters/113743957

MISERY

Omori isn’t on his laptop this time. He’s not drawing in his sketchbook, either. He’s sitting very still with both arms wrapped around his knees, staring at Sunny the same way you’d look at a spider that just spun its web over your bed.

Sunny stares back at him. “Are you going to stab me again?”

“I won’t apologize,” Omori says, without heat. He doesn’t look angry. He just looks tired.

“That’s not what I asked.”

Omori doesn’t answer. He just stands up and slouches to the door.

###

They find Hero in the classroom in the depths of Sprout Mole Village.

He doesn’t look very comfortable. Which makes sense. The desks here were built for sprout moles, and sprout moles rarely grow much taller than a terrier. Whereas Hero is six terriers tall, at least.

He couldn’t even fit into a chair. He’s just sitting on the ground with his legs sticking out and his knees kinked up like a cricket’s. The pencil he’s using is basically a toothpick. It’s a miracle that he can write without snapping it in half.

“Hero,” Sunny says calmly.

—The toothpick snaps.

“Sunny??” Hero beckons him over, frantic. “Quick, find a desk before the teacher gets back. I can’t believe I forgot the exam was today; I haven’t screwed up this bad since I was—ugh—I don’t think I’ve ever screwed up this bad. But you still have—” He checks his watch. “Oh my god. Six minutes? That’s not even enough to scrape a passing grade. Oh my god, I’m really not going to graduate. I’m going to be a 26-year-old high schooler. I was supposed to take the boards next year and now they’re going to laugh me out of—”

“Hero,” Sunny says again.

“Shh!” He darts a nervous glance toward the front of the classroom, but the coast is still clear. “What?”

“You already graduated.”

“I did? I… did. Yeah. I did, didn’t I? So why am I—” Realization dawns. “Oh. I’m… dreaming?”

Sunny nods.

“Oh.” Hero tries to stand up, but only manages to bang his knee on the underside of his ridiculously tiny desk. “Well. Good.”

“Hero.”

“What?”

“Your nightmares are really lame.”

“They’re not always like this!” Hero says defensively. “I’m under a lot of stress!”

“Okay.” Whatever helps him sleep at night. “Now come with me.”

Hero looks suspicious. “What? Why?”

“Because I’m asking.”

“Oh, alright,” he sighs. “Just let me get through this page, or I’m never going to—”

“You already graduated.”

“Shit. I mean—shoot. I mean—ugh. Okay. Yeah. I guess let’s just go.”

###

Sunny doesn’t bother with the details. Hero’s brain is very good at rebooting to factory settings. Even if Sunny tried to explain, he’d probably get halfway only to turn around and find Hero trying to take another exam. More efficient to cut to the chase.

“Someone needs your help,” he says.

Hero straightens up. “Someone’s hurt?”

“Nnn…maybe?” Sunny thinks about it. “No. I don’t know. Probably not physically.”

“Oh,” Hero says, frowning. “Well. Who is it?”

Sunny hesitates. He doesn’t like to lie, but the only person who Hero isn’t interested in helping is Hero. “Tell you later.”

Hero rolls his eyes, but he stops asking questions.

###

Hero seems strangely at ease keeping company with two Sunny’s. He doesn’t even ask any questions. But as they close in on the nearest Pluto stop, he finally hesitates.

“Hey, Sunny?” He looks between Sunny to Omori. “Uh. Whichever Sunny, I guess. What is it you need me to do, exactly? I can do a better job if I know what to expect.”

Sunny frowns. He isn’t sure how to explain it. It would be easier if he knew what was going on with Headspace Hero. But it doesn’t look like Omori is planning on clearing that up anytime soon. “Um. Have you ever played Persona 4?”

“What? No. What is that, a computer game?”

Wow. What year is it again? Then again, it’s not really a surprise. Hero’s schedule doesn’t leave a lot of space for dungeon crawling. And besides. The fourth installment iterated on the formula in a lot of mechanically practical ways, but it was also… really homophobic. Like. Pretty distractingly homophobic. And don’t get Sunny started on their clumsy attempt at a trans narrative.

“Sunny?” Hero says again.

“Mh?”

“Why do you ask?”

What? Oh. “Don’t worry about it.”

“So… that’s not why you need my help?”

Sunny gives him a scathing look. “Like you could help me with a videogame.”

“Of course he can,” Omori cuts in, unexpectedly. It’s the first thing he’s said since they picked up Hero. “Hero can do anything.”

“Hah!! Wow. Aw, Sunny, what happened?” When he reaches out to ruffle Omori’s hair, Omori actually lets him. “You used to be such a sweet kid.”

Sunny frowns. No, he didn’t. “No I didn’t.”

“Pfft,” Hero snorts. “Yeah. I guess you were always a brat.”

Omori’s gone quiet again. He’s watching them with an expression that Sunny’s never seen on him, or maybe anyone. It’s bitter. Resigned. Sort of like envy, but from someone who’s already accepted that they’re never going to get what they want.

Sunny’s head tilts. “...Omori?”

That seems to break the spell. Omori flinches, then turns coldly away. “Just don’t fall behind.”

###

They catch a ride on Captain Kel’s spaceship, presumably to save time. It couldn’t be because Hero’s already wheezing just from the climb out of Sprout Mole Village. Omori has many talents, but 'consideration for others’ has never been one of them.

“Hah HAH!!!” the captain shouts, once Sunny’s clambered up the rope ladder and onto the deck. “Welcome aboard, mateys!! Where are we headed?”

Sunny has no idea. But he’s glad to see Kel back in the troposphere.

He’s even gladder when two fluffy pink ears pop up from behind the steering wheel. Headspace Aubrey is looking cuter than ever with her hair pulled back in a hot-pink ponytail and two long, candy-colored ears twitching overhead. Sunny resists the urge to pat her like a puppy. He's not looking to get stabbed again.

“Are you stupid or something?” Bunbrey demands, whacking the tricorn hat clear off of Kel’s head. “Obviously we’re going to go save Hero! Look, Omori even brought his wrinkly old clone!” She stops to frown critically at the real Hero, who's finally dragged himself onto the deck. "Why do you look so tired? Mari says you have to get enough sleep, or else your brain won't grow right. And it's bad for your skin. Mari said."

“Hhh,” Hero wheezes.

“HaHAH!!” Kel bellows, not dampened in the slightest. “First Mate Spaceboy!! Chart a path… to adventure!!!”

Aubrey wrinkles her nose at him. “First Mate Spaceboy, chart a path to the Deep Well, please. Thank you.”

###

The Last Resort has grown since Sunny saw it last. It’s less like a casino you’d find outside a gas station on the border of Nevada, and more like a casino you’d find on the strip in Las Vegas. Flashing lights, bustling crowds. Glittering fountains cascading to the rhythm of syrupy-smooth jazz. Huge, roving spotlights that cast the whole seafloor in azure and gold.

When Omori moves to disembark, Captain Kel and Bunbrey follow close behind. But before they can step onto the ladder, Omori pops back into view and shakes his head.

“What!!!” Captain Kel sputters. “Why!!!”

“We’re not looking for a fight,” Omori says calmly. “And you’ve still got that lifetime ban.”

Bunbrey stamps her feet. “But I wanna help!!!”

“Then keep the engine running.”

###

The first floor still throngs with Gator Guys, but they’re not primed to attack. Now they’re just running the tables—and, clearly, raking in the clams. Running a blackjack table must be a lot more profitable than picking fights with random children.

Omori doesn’t stop to play the slots. He beelines for the elevator and doesn’t slow down till they reach the colossal door to Jawsum’s reception office. Sunny can hear someone talking on the other side of the door. It’s a high voice, a little nasal and a lot familiar.

“Hello? Please hold. Hello? Please hold. Hello? Oh, yes, Mr. Dino, sir, the Chairman is ever-so-excited to speak with you! Please hold for just a teensie moment and I’ll transfer you to his direct line.”

Omori throws the door back and stomps through, with Sunny close on his heels.

When he sees who’s manning the desk, Sunny stops short. It’s Sweetheart. Sweetheart is Jawsum’s new receptionist. She's tied her twintails up into a pair of puffy space buns, and swapped the ballgown for a powder-pink button-down with a sailor collar and a neat pencil skirt. But it is very much still Sweetheart. When the door swings open, she looks up with a wide, vacuous smile, which quickly turns into a glare.

“You again,” she says coldly, to Omori in particular. “What is it this time?”

“I have an appointment.”

She looks down at her schedule and grimaces. “Ugh. So you do. I suppose you think that means that I’m going to let you through.”

Sunny did think that, yes.

“Well, I won’t! Children are disgusting. And you carry all sorts of diseases. The Chairman is a very busy man. Far too busy for horrible little rats like you.”

Omori looks nonplussed.

Sunny looks to Hero, who rakes a hand through his hair and sighs. “Right. Okay. Um, excuse me, miss—” He stops to read her nameplate. “Miss… Sweetheart. We really need to speak with the—”

(Chairman, Sunny mouths.)

“—the Chairman, if it isn’t too much trouble. We don’t mind waiting! Or if you’re understaffed, maybe I could give you a hand? I know how it is to work too many hours.” He smiles at her, disarmingly rueful. “It’s okay if there’s nothing you can do. Honest! I’d hate to make your life any harder than it has to be. But if there’s anything I can do to help, to—take something off your plate, or…”

Sweetheart’s eyes narrow, but her heart-shaped mouth curves up.

“Well, aren’t you charming,” she says sourly. “Hmph. I suppose I could make an exception, just this once.”

“You’d do that for us?” Hero leans across the counter to give her a heartbreakingly genuine smile. “Wow. You’ve really made my day. If you ever need a favor, you know who to call.”

Sweetheart was already weak to Hero when he was a barefoot 16-year-old in pajamas. She never stood a chance. “Ohhh, just—go on already!! Just keep it short. The Chairman is a very busy man.”

###

Before going inside, Sunny grabs Omori by the elbow. “Is this going to be a fight?”

“Who cares.”

“Oh,” Hero says, a little sheepish. “Um. I guess I do? I, uh. Don’t really fight.”

“It’s fine,” Omori grits out. “It’s— You’ll be fine. You can… trust me.”

Sunny’s eyebrows go up. He’s never seen Omori act that accommodating for anyone. It’s sort of unsettling, actually.

But Hero just smiles. “Thanks, Sunn— Oh, I’m sorry. Sunny called you something different, didn’t he? What do you like to be called?”

Omori looks surprised, and then strangely despondent. “...It doesn’t matter. Let’s just get this over with.”

###

Jawsum’s office room has undergone some renovations since the last time Sunny saw it. The whimsical porthole windows are gone, along with the steering wheels above the doors. Now it’s all black glass and smoothly varnished wood. And it’s immaculate. There isn’t a speck of dust or sneaker-scuff or spiderweb to be seen. It looks sterile. Clean. Modern, but in the stripped-down, Apple Store sense of the word.

The desk is still enormous, though. And the chair. The chair looks about big enough to live in.

When Omori clears his throat, that colossal office chair spins around to face him. From where Sunny’s standing, it looks like it’s empty. But when he stretches onto his toes, he can see a few tufts of dark brown hair.

—Oh. It’s not Jawsum. It’s Hero. (The other Hero.)

Headspace Hero leaps to his feet, hurrying around the desk to clasp Omori’s hand in both of his. “Omori! What a pleasant surprise! Did you change your mind about that job offer?”

“No.”

“Haha, hey, I hear ya! Just keep sleeping on it! It’s a great opportunity, you know. Something like this could really put you on the right track.” The Chairman smiles wide, baring a mouthful of dagger-sharp teeth. “There’s nothing wrong with a little nepotism, Omori. I could cut you one hell of a deal.”

He must have outgrown the pajamas. This Hero is sharply dressed in a pinstriped three-piece suit. His shiny silver cufflinks are set with real amethysts, and his once-messy hair is slicked back from his face. He looks like the Wolf of Wall Street. Like a shark that crawled out of the ocean and started selling car insurance.

“And who’s this, now!” Bossman Hero prowls forward, pacing a full circle around Sunny and Hero before giving Omori a sly smile. “Omori, you scamp! Is this some kind of prank? It’s very funny, of course, but you really shouldn’t make an appointment for something like this.”

Omori huffs a breath. “Kel’s back,” he says shortly. “From space.”

“Great!! Wonderful!! That’s wonderful to hear!! It’s dangerous up there.”

“Aubrey, too. She was hoping to see you.”

“Sure, sure, of course! I’d love to see her! I should have some availability in, let’s see… Sweetheart!”

“Yes, Mr. Chairman?” Materializing at his elbow to give Omori a snide smile.

“Where’s there space on my schedule, darlin’?”

“Not for a few weeks yet, I’m afraid,” she says sweetly. “No further commitments till the merger goes through, you said, Mr. Hero. You made me promise.”

“Right, right, the merger!!” Bossman Hero turns to clasp Omori’s hand in both of his. “Omori. I’m so glad to see you doing so well. Playing, and… pulling pranks, and all that. But we all have to grow up sometime. It was fun, going on adventures with everyone! Sometimes I wish we could have stayed like that forever. But there comes a time when you have to leave those childish things behind.”

“Childish things like your brother?” Omori asks coldly.

“I offered him a position,” the Chairman shrugs. “He just needs to apply himself.”

“And like Aubrey.”

“That girl’s got a good head on her shoulders! You just wait. She’ll come around.”

Omori doesn’t say anything, but his shoulders droop. He looks smaller, somehow, than when they first arrived. Sunny’s never seen him look so young. Like a little kid who found out that his parents won’t be home for Christmas. If Sunny didn’t know better, he’d say that Omori’s feelings were hurt.

But that’s impossible.

Sunny knows how it feels to be Omori. In a fairly real sense, Sunny’s been Omori. He spent years of his life hiding in the recesses of Omori’s subconscious mind. So he knows firsthand that Omori doesn’t get his feelings hurt. Omori was made to feel nothing. A living exoskeleton, immunized against hurt and hate and heartbreak. Emotions wash over Omori and then fall cleanly away, like water off a duck’s back. He only feels sad if it gives him the advantage in a fight.

But even so… the way he looks—

Before he can stop himself, Sunny’s already stepped between them. “What about Mari. Is she just something you outgrew?”

He’s braced for anger, or aggression outright. But Boss Hero doesn’t flinch. It’s more like he… flickers. For just a second, Sunny can see straight through him. Like someone walking past a projector.

—Then the image stutters, and the Chairman is back. Sunny’s eye narrows. A hologram.

“Look,” Bossman Hero says earnestly, sidestepping Sunny to give Omori a firm pat on the shoulder. “I love ya, kid, I really do. I’m always glad to see you. But I’m fine! There’s no need to worry. It’s just… not a good time.”

“Right,” Omori mutters.

Sunny’s still scanning the room. No matter where he looks, he can’t see the projector. But then— “Where is it projected from?”

The Chairman’s smile sharpens. “Respectfully, Omori, I don’t think that’s any of your business.”

Omori shakes himself off and turns back toward the door. “Come on,” he tells Sunny and (the real) Hero. “This is all we can do from here.”

“Give Kel a firm handshake for me, eh?” Bossman Hero calls after him. “And tell Aubrey that offer still stands!”

###

“Why is he being like that?” Sunny asks quietly, on the way out of the Chairman’s office. He’s never seen the real Hero act like that. All forced smiles and lying eyes, like he’s never been sad a day in his life.

Hero winces. “R-Right. I guess you weren’t there for that part.”

But that explains literally nothing. Sunny just stares, waiting for an explanation.

It doesn’t take long. “Well. Uh. I guess he… probably thinks he’s just being responsible. That he’s got to hold it together, for everyone’s sake. So he won’t be a burden, or… make anyone worry.”

“But they’re still worried.” Probably more worried than if Boss Hero wasn’t pretending to be fine.

“...Yeah.”

Sunny sighs. “You should never do your hair like that.”

“It looked bad, huh?”

“It looked bad.”

###

When the office door swings open, Sunny finds himself nose-to-nose with a tyrannosaurus rex in shutter shades.

“Haha, heya, Boss! It’s great to—” Dino lowers his shades. “Oh, it’s you kids. Hey, kids!”

“Go get hit by a meteor,” Omori spits.

Dino shakes his head. “Not cool.”

“Sorry about him,” Hero says, cringingly. “It’s been a long night. Um… Best of luck with your pitch!”

###

“I hope you’ve learned your lesson,” Sweetheart says snootily, as they shuffle past her desk.

Sunny absolutely did not. From the look on his face, Omori didn’t, either. But Hero’s a little more cooperative.

“Haha, yeah. More or less. Thanks a lot for your help, though. Really! We really appreciate it. Especially at such a stressful time.” His face darkens a little as he glances back toward the Chairman’s office. “...I don’t get it. What’s the deal with this merger? How could it be more important than his family?”

Sweetheart gives him a suspicious stare. Hero smiles back at her, guileless.

Confronted with his obvious good nature, Sweetheart softens. "The Chairman is an exceptional specimen,” she tells him kindly. “It’s his hand at the helm which keeps this whole place afloat, you know. He sees the big picture. Much, much bigger than your tiny, insignificant lives. You couldn’t begin to understand.”

“Haha, yeah. For sure. Makes sense.”

Sunny has bigger fish to fry. “What’s the point?” he asks bluntly. Why would Boss Hero even want to buy the Food Pyramid? The Orange Oasis is all the way on the other side of Headspace, far to the west and a million miles overhead. And it’s not like they can move it.

“Hmph! If you must know, the Chairman intends to leverage their resources. Mr. Dino’s excavation equipment is of exemplary quality.”

“Hero’s digging?” Omori asks sharply. “For what?”

Sweetheart turns her nose up at him. “Well! I don’t believe that’s any of your business. Now, if you’re quite finished, I believe it’s long past time for you children to leave. Unless you’d prefer to be forcibly removed?”

“We were just leaving!” Hero says hastily, shepherding Sunny and Omori toward the entrance.

Omori really must have a soft spot for Hero. He doesn’t even brush him off.

###

The End of the Highway used to be vacant. Lightless and utterly noiseless. It wasn’t just that it was too dark to see—it’s more like there was nothing to see. Even shadows couldn’t survive in that absolute vacuum.

But times have changed.

The last few miles of highway have been swallowed up by the Chairman’s dig site, a glittering tangle of steel girders and bulldozers and crocodiles in bright-yellow hard hats. Drill rigs the size of skyscrapers tower over the asphalt, making the toll gates look like kid’s toys. The whole space is lit with harsh, industrial-grade floodlights, like the kind they use for baseball stadiums and indoor basketball courts. (Not that Sunny does a lot of sporting. But he does grudgingly turn up for some of Kel’s games. It's nice to support your friends' passions, even when your friends' passions are really boring.)

Security is way, way up. It’s not just a bunch of underpaid gators who’ll look the other way for the right price. The whole dig site is fenced off with miles of barbed wire and sparking steel. Sunny can see signs posted every ten-or-so feet. DANGER!! HIGH VOLTAGE!! KEEP AWAY!! STAY BACK!!

“Aw,” Hero says, though he doesn’t look too upset. “Sorry, guys. Looks like it’s a no-go.”

“We’re going,” Omori says flatly.

Hero blinks. “But… it’s private property. And it looks like they’re pretty serious. Look, they’re even checking ID.”

It’s true. The only entrance in sight is ridiculously well-guarded, with CCTV and a barcode scanner and everything.

Sunny waits for Omori to say something scathing about rule-followers, or how fences are made to be vaulted. But Omori just shakes his head. “We’re going.”

“Uhh,” Hero says. “I mean. Do you… have any ideas?”

Omori just glares at his feet. Which means that he probably doesn’t.

Sunny chews his lip. If they found a suit, maybe Hero could pose as the Chairman? The color palette is off, but crocodiles aren’t known for their color vision. Though the teeth are a dead giveaway. It’d only work if Hero kept his mouth shut. Is Hero even capable of holding a conversation without any ingratiating smiles?

Sunny nearly jumps out of his skin when a low, rattling whisper rings out from directly behind him.

“Are you kids lost?” It’s not a nice voice. It’s sharp and scratchy and a little bit nasal, like peeling apart a strip of velcro. “Looks like you could use some directions.”

The stranger is dressed like a detective from a cheap paperback, in a long canvas trenchcoat and a fedora that hides their eyes. Their teeth are the same sickly yellow as their hair. And it’s weird… As far as Sunny knows, he made this place, and everyone in it. But he’s never seen this person in his life.

To his surprise, Omori seems to relax. “Yes.”

“Uhuhu,” the stranger chuckles. “Come to face your regrets, eh, Dreamer? All those forgotten things, buried in the deep, deep dark… But nothing stays hidden forever.”

“Obviously,” Omori says impatiently. “Do you know the way or not?”

###

Sunny knows Headspace. He charted its peaks and caverns and hidden crannies before Omori even had to exist. Sunny scaled the peaks of Otherworld while he waited for the lunch bell, and plumbed the depths of the Deeper Well on the bus home from school. He thought he’d seen every inch of this place. He’d sort of thought that he made every inch of this place.

But he’s never seen anywhere like this.

The Abyss is just as black as Black Space. But it feels more… solid, somehow? Fundamentally more real. Black Space is erratic, chaotic. It’s fear unbounded by form. Illogical. Implacable. Jagged splinters of color and sound, eyeless and still staring staring staring. Whispering all the things you couldn’t make yourself forget.

Whereas the Abyss is… well. It’s not not a nightmare. It’s certainly dark enough. Black as pitch and squirming with monsters. Lurching, limping shadows with a thousand staring eyes. The floor absorbs the faintest footfall, so every step is soundless. It makes Sunny feel sort of ghostly, like maybe he isn't really here at all. Like maybe he’s still utterly alone.

—But it isn’t his nightmare. That’s the part that’s weird. It’s terrifying, but in a broader sense of the word. It’s dark, but Sunny doesn’t really mind the dark. It’s claustrophobic, but Sunny always liked enclosed spaces. They make him feel small and safe.

But if the Abyss isn’t his, then… whose nightmare is this?

…Is it even possible that it’s Omori’s?

Sunny isn’t sure. Omori was supposed to be part of him. An only slightly unconventional trauma response, gifted with a name and a face and a dark sense of humor. But if that’s the case, then how could Omori have fears that aren’t Sunny’s?

Sunny doesn’t know.

###

The deeper they descend, the colder it gets. Sunny starts shivering on level two. When they clamber down another elevator, Hero slips out of his sweater and pulls it over Omori’s head.

“What about me?” Sunny complains.

“You’re an adult.”

“(A cold adult.)”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Hero snorts. “Let me just take the sweater off the back of the literal child so you can warm up. Is that what you want?”

“Maybe.”

“Pfft. Well, don’t hold your breath.”

Omori has been watching the exchange with the same inscrutable expression he was wearing when they first picked up Hero. But now he lunges forward with his knife drawn. “Get ba—”

—He’s too late. The monster’s already closed in.

It’s one of those shambling, whimpering shadows, ink-black with a thousand staring eyes. Another broken-mirror splinter of Mari, born of dread and poisoned by shame. The sight still turns Sunny’s stomach. But he knows that’s not really his sister. Mari lost her patience sometimes, but she would never hurt him. She loved him. And she’s dead.

“…ny…” the creature whispers. “…S…orr…y… Sunny… I’m… sorr…”

Omori winds up for a swing. But before he can land the hit, Hero throws himself between them.

“No!!” he shouts, his voice cracking halfway. Omori has to windmill his arms to keep from slashing him in half. “D-Don’t—!!”

“Lo…ve… you…” the monster whimpers. “…so…rry… love you… sorry…”

It’s still apologizing as it rears back and kicks out with two wickedly pointed hooves. Sunny barely manages to yank Hero out of the way before it can crack his skull like an egg. Ugh. Out of all the people Sunny loves, Hero is maybe the only one who’s even more useless in this place than he is.

In the background, Omori’s recovered his balance. He slams a fist against the cave wall and a torrent of Red Hands shatters through the ground under the monster, smashing it flat against the ceiling. Then he whips around to glare at Hero. “What was that?”

Hero gapes for a second, wordless, before he remembers to answer. “I—don’t know. Fuck. Sorry, I’m really sorry, that was so stupid, I just— For a second, I thought…”

For a terrifying three seconds, Sunny thinks he’s going to have to intervene. And then, for the millionth time tonight, Omori huffs a breath and turns away.

“Whatever. Just don’t get in my way.”

###

Four ladders deeper, the air glitters with cold. The luminescence from the lichen on the walls shines in every mote of vapor. Sunny can see his breath turn white. Each exhale is a tiny puff of phosphorescence, like moonlight on snow.

Hero’s breath glimmers, too. But Omori’s is dark. Like the breath in him is cold. Like he’s not alive at all. When he notices Sunny watching, he glares.

“Stay quiet,” he mutters. “We’re close.”

You can read the rest here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/45213322/chapters/127613875

Or start from chapter one: https://archiveofourown.org/works/45213322/chapters/113743957

[morganmaietto]

Here’s an excerpt from my WIP: The Mirror Effect.

This scene will 100% be in the book. I just needed to post something a little wholesome today.

Tw: mentions of drinking blood (one character is a vampire) and swearing.

Noah had ordered pizza for dinner for them, and since Phoebe and Craig were still at work Taelor was openly drinking blood from one of the blood bags Josephine had given her. After they had finished eating they decided to have a game night. Lucille was on a winning streak, much to her older siblings dismay. “HA! In your face Tae!” Lucille celebrated her tenth victory in a row as her little character crossed the finish line right before Taelor’s did. Taelor was still gaping at the screen. “How do you keep doing that?! There’s no way you aren’t cheating!” Lucille scoffed at the accusation. “I’m not cheating you two just suck ass at this game.” “Oh yeah? We’ll see about that. Rematch!” “I’m gonna sit this one out I think.” Noah said putting down his controller. “Aww, don’t be such a sore loser Noah.” Lucille said looking up at him from where she sat on the floor. “I’m not being a sore loser.” “Yeah yeah, sounds like you’re being a sore loser to me.” Taelor teased. Noah just rolled his eyes. Lucille and Taelor battled it out with the racing game again, with Taelor losing again. “Aaaand… I win again.” Taelor growled at Lucille and crossed her arms. “Quit pouting. We can play something else.” “No! Now I have to beat you.” “Come on seriously, aren’t you getting tired of losing?” “Re. Match. Now.” Lucille shrugged and they played again. Lucille won again and Taelor groaned in frustration. “How the fuck do you keep beating me last second?!” Lucille gave her a smug look. “Because I’m better at this game than you.” “There’s no way you aren’t cheating.” “I don’t think she’s cheating Taelor.” Noah said. “Rematch.” “Taelor…” “No! I said rematch!” Lucille looked at Noah. He shrugged. “Fine, just one more game, then let’s play something else.” Lucille said. “I only need one more try.” “You two do realize how late it is, right?” Noah asked, looking at his phone. “Shh! Shut up! Don’t distract me!” Taelor yelled as her and Lucille again started racing. Again Lucille proved to be the victor. “Damn it!” Taelor yelled in frustration. “Okay! How about we watch a movie instead?” Noah suggested. “No!” Taelor said. “But why?” Lucille whined a little. “Because I’m starting to get sick of you two whining. And I’m the oldest so you have to do what I say.” “Of course you’d use that on us. Just because you’re the oldest doesn’t make you the boss of us.” Taelor said. “Yeah, it’s not like mom put you in charge.” “Maybe she didn’t but I could always tell her you’re misbehaving.” He said with a smug smirk. Lucille rolled her eyes. “Fine! Let’s find a boring one.” After a bit of searching, they ended up finding a movie, it was so boring they ended up falling asleep.

Two hours later, Lucille woke up to Taelor practicing the game. “I told you, you two suck at the game.” Lucille smirked when the computer won instead of Taelor. “Shut up!” Taelor snapped back. “For the love of god will you both shut up please.” Noah groaned, now also awake. “So stupid.” Taelor grumbled. “The heck did you just call me?” Noah raised his voice. “Not you, this game!” “Okay damn! It’s obviously way past Tae’s bedtime.” Lucille said. “It is like three in the morning right now.” “We should make a pillow fort.” “It’s way too late Tae.” Noah said. “So? It’s not like you haven’t had to stay up to cram for exams.” She pointed out. “Well, yeah no shit. Do you know how draining that is?” “Guys quit it. Let’s compromise here. Noah can lay on the couch and take a break while you and I make the fort.” “No he has to help, he’s acting like an old man.” “What? No I’m not! I’m just tired.” “See? He just made my point.” Noah glared at her. “Fine. Give me the damn pillows, I make better forts than you two anyways.” At that point Lucille just gave up and let them duke it out. Noah did end up making a decent fort for them all to fit under comfortably.

[altruistic-meme]

do i know i should get someone to read over my essay before i turn it in? yes

however that has always been the most difficult part for me :’))

[l0serloki]

Recordings for Later

Gamer!Ajax x Reader

Genre : Smut

WC : 1K

Summary : Childe got a new computer camera and you can’t help but keep thinking about it..

CW  : fem!reader, exhibitionism (filming), degrading, breeding kink, spit, slight praise kink, teasing/orgasm denial, fingering, uhh rough & unprotected sex

A/N : Here’s another gamer!tartag fanfic because trog!childe stays winning. (rise up fellow troglodytes who don’t touch grass.) If you want to read the other one, here it is. Also, you know 100% he would watch these back and jerk off.

Your boyfriend Childe gamed a lot. You didn’t mind it, sometimes joining him in the games he liked. He had spent quite the fortune turning the extra bedroom into your alls gaming room. It was quite impressive. He had recently gotten a desk camera to stream for his buddies while they were eating or chilling on discord. It was a normal camera, yet it had piqued your attention. 

You felt dirty, the nasty thoughts filling your mind whenever you entered the room. You couldn’t help but wish he would turn that damn camera on and record the two of you.. You knew he would but it was more about just finding the right time. 

You sat on the couch behind him, watching him play. 

“Zhongli, are you old?! It’s right there!” Childe threw his hands up, mad about the game. You could only laugh at the sight before you. You could feel your mind wander to the idea from earlier. This would be a perfect time. 

Slowly, you got up, hand wandering down the man’s chest.

“Baby, when are you going to be done with this game?” Your eyebrow cocked, hand trailing circles into his flesh.

His face grew red, hand gripping at your wrist. 

“Shouldn’t be even two minutes. Stand there.” His voice was stern, making you even more excited. You nodded at his words, hands trailing against his strong shoulders.

“Gotta go! I’ll talk to you all later!” Childe ended the call, eyes wandering over your figure. He stood up abruptly, breath fanning against your face.

“Is someone horny? You want me to fuck you against the sofa again?” His lips dusted across your jawline, reaching down your neck. You moaned into him as he bit down on your pulse point.

“I-I want to try something new.” You spoke up, his cerulean hues meeting yours.

“Do you now? What is it then, princess?” You felt his rough hands trail under your shirt, fingertips digging into your waist.

“Can we maybe use the camera? Like just record it for us..” You felt yourself grow warm, eyes turning away from him. His grip on your jaw forced you to meet his eyes again, a devious look looming in them.

“You want me to film us fucking?” He questioned again and you only nodded, eyes attempting to look at anything but him. 

“God, okay. Go sit on the sofa and strip. Leave your legs wide for me.” Childe went over to his desk to set up the camera, leaving you to your own devices. You did as you were told, pulling away at the fabric confining you.

You pushed your legs apart, arousal dripping down as your boyfriend turned. His groans filled the air as he pawed at the tent in his pants. 

“Look at you baby, fuck. So wet for me. I’m going to ruin you.” You could only moan as his hands gripped your thighs, hard.

“Show your pretty little pussy to the camera, baby. Show them how good it is for me before I mold you to my cock.” 

You spread your legs as wide as they could go, head thrown completely back. Ajax’s deft fingers worked in and out of your sopping hole, getting you closer and closer to your orgasm. 

His pace got faster, his fingers rapidly fucking you. He didn’t even give you a moment to think. You felt yourself getting so close.

“Gonna cum, baby! Gonna cum for you!” You breathed out, the string in your stomach about to snap.

He suddenly moved his fingers away, ruining your orgasm. You moaned in defeat, pissed that the euphoria was taken away from you.

Childe’s finger worked itself into your mouth, your own arousal swirling around. “Shh, I know you’re mad. But I wanted you to cum on my cock. Need to fill you full, okay?” You could only plead, moans getting louder at the lack of friction. 

“Okay, okay. Get on all fours and look at the camera for me.”

You got into position, Childe’s hand finding it’s way to your hair. His grip went hard, pulling your face as far up as possible. 

“Stick your tongue out like the whore you are.” He commanded, your tongue stuck out for the cold air. His face got close before he spat directly into your mouth. “Swallow, slut.” You took the spit down your throat, tongue prodding back out to show him. 

“Such a good girl. Go ahead and look at that camera while I give you your reward, okay?” 

You could finally breathe a sigh of relief as you felt his dick tip run across your folds. He continued teasing for a minute before you grew tired.

“Baby, please. I can’t take the teasing anymore. Fuck me!” You begged, his hand yanking at your scalp.

“Fine. Remember you asked for it though.” 

His cock rammed into you, barely giving you seconds to adjust. The pace he set was brutal, pummeling you into the sofa. You could feel the same tightness from earlier easing back.

“I can feel your wet little cunt squeezing me. Are you already going to cum?” Childe’s hand on your waist smacked lightly, making you jump. Your eyes rolled back as he got faster, pushing you to the edge.

“I’m gonna cum! ‘M gonna cum all over your cock.” You screamed as you gripped the plush pillows, finally hitting your high. 

Childe’s thrusts got sloppy, cumming soon after you. “Gonna fill you up, pretty girl. All mine.” You could only sigh at the prolonged pleasure, his hot seed spilling into you.

“God, I should’ve bought this camera sooner. Maybe next time I’ll take photos while I’m filling up your slutty little cunt. It would make a nice screensaver, don't ya’ think?”

[alaynes-writings]

Comfort

Summary: Just a short blurb, set during the box test scene. Reader is worried about Paul and comforts him afterwards.

Pairing: Paul Atreides x reader (gender neutral)

A/N: Me? Writing again? Is this a Christmas miracle? Yes. Dune got me back into writing, so here’s a short blurb. Currently piecing together old drafts on my computer for my old Hamilton stories. Requests are currently closed, but feel free to send me a message with an idea and I’ll see how it goes. Merry Christmas everyone!                                                          ---

Jessica tried to keep her hands from shaking as she entered her sons chambers. It‘s the middle of the night and the Reverend mother asked to see Paul. She knows what‘s gonna happen, knows what he has to go through now. But it must be done.

With quiet steps she walks towards his bed but stops suddenly, surprised to see that he wasn‘t alone. There was someone else, curled into his side, head resting on his chest and Paul‘s arms wrapped around them in a secure hug. They look so peaceful together, she hesitates for another second before she gently shakes the boys shoulder.

„Paul“, she whispers and his eyes flutter, confused for a second before he recognizes his mother in the dark, the only source of light being the moon shining through his windows.

„Get up and get dressed. The Reverend mother is here. She wants to see you.“

                                                             ---

You‘re not sure if you are imagining the soft, whispering voice, but you can feel Paul moving underneath you, disturbing your sleep.

„Paul?“, you mumble, eyes still closed. You were so exhausted and you only remember climbing into bed with him and falling asleep almost immediately.

„Shh.“, he whispers, the hand that rests on your back drawing small circles into your skin. „Go back to sleep.“

„What‘s wrong?“, you ask instead, voice still heavy with sleep. The warmth of his body, his steady heartbeat and the patterns he‘s drawing on your back almost lull you back to sleep, but at his next words your eyes flutter open.

„The Reverend mother wants to see me.“

You lift your head and even in your dizzy state you realize that this is not good news. „What? Why?“

He notices the worry in your eyes and lifts his other hand to gently push the hair falling into your face behind your ear. He rests his thumb on your cheek, stroking the soft skin in an attempt to calm you down.

„Don‘t worry, I‘m sure it‘s nothing. Maybe she just wants to talk about the training with my mother.“

He knows you‘re not convinced, maybe you can sense that he‘s also worried what this is about, but he doesn‘t have the time for this now. His mother is already waiting. So he gently cups your face, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead.

„Go back to sleep. I‘ll be back soon.“

                                                            –-

You spent what felt like an eternity tossing and turning in the bed, unable to really fall asleep again without Paul by your side. When you finally hear the door creak, your head shoots up. Paul stops in his tracks as he sees you sitting wide awake on his bed. He chuckles softly.

“I thought I told you to go back to sleep, love.”

You watch as he takes off his boots and uniform, trying to read his expression to figure out what happened.

“I can’t sleep when you’re not here.”

He smiles at you fondly as he climbs back into bed, but you can see in his eyes that something else is on his mind.

“C’mere.”

He lays down and you shuffle closer to him, resting your head on his chest, his arms wrapping around you like they do almost every night. You enjoy the silence for a while, only listening to his heartbeat under your cheek.

“What happened Paul?”, you finally ask.

He hesitates to answer and you feel like his arms wrap a little tighter around you, like he’s holding on to you.

“Let’s not talk about it now. Tomorrow. Right now I just want… I just want to be here with you.”

You lift your head to see his face and by the look in his eyes you can tell that something deeply disturbed him, but you accept his decision.

“You know I love you, right?”, you ask and he smiles again, the kind of smile only you get to see, that makes your heart flutter in your chest.

“I do. And you know I love you too, right? More than anything.”

“I do.”

[tweedlydumbtweedlydoo]

Traumatized | Bucky Barnes x reader

Requested by anon / Summary: You get kidnapped and when Bucky finds you, you’re traumatized from being abused the entire time. 

A/N: Hope you like it! xx I started this a while back and finally finished it today. 

Usually I’m all for the bad ass reader, but I’m gonna change it up to a completely terrified/innocent reader. She’s technically not an avenger but is a part of the team working with Bruce and Tony on some high tech inventions.

!! Warning: mention of blood, cuts, torture, ptsd 

Also, I am not into technology at all. So, if there’s some misinformation in there, please just move along and continue reading :)

! Warning: talk of abuse/torture, blood, traumatized reader 

Tag list is at the end. Let me know if you want to be added xx

Go follow my fic rec blog! ---> @imaginationgonewild0912

**MASTERLIST**

Requests: {OPEN} CLOSED

** Rules for Requesting **

** Who I Write For **

********************************************************************************************NOT MY GIF, CREDIT TO OWNERS

!! Warning: mention of blood, cuts, torture, ptsd

“Hey has anyone spoke to y/n today?” Bucky enters the shared common space of the Avenger’s tower where Nat, Steve, Wanda, & Vision were, “She said she was going out to grab a coffee and a quick walk around the park, but she’s not back yet and I haven’t heard from her.” 

“She’s probably still at the park.” Wanda answers, moving a chess piece. Her and Vision were currently enticed in a game of chess. 

“You know how she is. She probably found some ducks to feed.” Steve chuckles. 

“yeah, maybe.” Bucky mutters, not completely convinced. You’d left earlier this morning and it was now entering the early afternoon hours. So, you should have been back by now. 

“Where’s Tony and Bruce?” Nat asks, shifting the subject. 

“Working on some new high tech.” Steve shrugs, “I didn’t understand a word after that.” 

“Wasn’t y/n supposed to be working on that with them?” Bucky takes the seat next to Steve at the table. 

Nat furrows her eyebrows, “Yeah.. Maybe she’s down there with them? She probably went straight to work with them after she got back from her walk.” 

Bucky nods, Nat’s probably right, “Yeah she probably did. She was all excited last night talking about the new tech her, Tony and Bruce had been working on. She said it’s almost done.” He finally lets the worry of not talking to you go. You were most likely in the zone with Tony and Bruce and usually the outside world disappeared. 

~ 

incoming video chat, Mr. Stark do you accept? F.R.I.D.A.Y asks. 

“I accept.” Tony continues his work with Bruce, not thinking much of it. Probably something to do with Stark Industries, “Yeah try that-” 

“Ah Mr. Stark, it’s been a while.” 

When he turns his attention to large computer screen, he’s met with a man who looks vaguely familiar but can’t picture where he’s seen him. “And who are you?” 

“It doesn’t surprise me that you don’t remember me.” The man sighs and steps back from the camera, showing the full view of the room. You were practically hanging from the ceiling, your hands pulled tightly together above your head and your feet barely touching the concrete floor below you. There were 5 other men standing near you, large guns in their hands and what looked to be masks over their face. 

Tony drops the tool in his hand, “What the hell is this?” 

“Oh now you want to pay attention!” The man comes to your side and a whimper escapes your lips as he holds the gun to your cheek, dragging it along your face and using it to push your hair out of the way, “I knew she would catch your attention.” 

Tony and Bruce exchange a look, “You realize you’ve just kidnapped someone very close to the Avenger’s and that means it isn’t going to end well for you,” He rounds the table to get a closer look at the screen, “So why would you be so stupid to kidnap her?” 

“Because she got what I didn’t.” He yanks your neck back by your hair, causing you to yelp.

“Who? Bucky? I don’t think he is into men.” He sarcastically replies. Deep down he’s actually very worried for your safety but choosing to be sarcastic in a time of danger is a way he copes. 

“Not Bucky.” The man seethes, “She got that position with you at the Avenger’s Tower. You three are working on something very high tech and I want it. I deserve it! And I’m going to get it.” 

“Then you probably should have tried to walk into the Avenger’s tower to take it. Not kidnapped one of our assistants!” 

“Oh I plan to get it out of her.” He taps your head with the gun, “She knows everything, everything about the tech you’re working on and she’s going to tell me. Even if I have to torture it out of her.” He smirks. 

You try to speak to beg tony, to beg someone to save you from this, “Tony please-” You were terrified. You weren’t trained to take torture and you knew this wasn’t going to end well for anyone, especially you. You were only an assistant to Bruce and Tony and Bucky’s girl, but you knew things about the avenger’s and about all the tech Bruce and Tony were working on. You could be the person to bring down the Avenger’s and the man knew that. He knew exactly which person would get him what he wanted. 

He ended the video chat. F.R.I.D.A.Y informs.

"Where’s the location of the video coming from?” Tony asks F.R.I.D.A.Y and Bruce who had been trying to pinpoint the location as well. 

There’s no clear location. 

“It’s bouncing off different wifi connections, there is no one location.” Bruce looks to Tony, “We’re blind. We have no idea where they have her.” 

~ 

Tony calls the team in for a meeting, calmly. He doesn’t want to panic them, especially Bucky because his judgment will be clouded by his love and attachment to you. He probably would destroy the city trying to find you. 

“What’s this about Tony?” Steve asks as the avengers fall into the room and settle in their seats. 

Tony clears his throat, “We have a problem.” 

As Bucky looked around the room there was one person missing, you. “Where’s y/n? I thought she was working with you two.” 

“That’s what I’ve called this meeting about.” Tony turns on the screen and there is a screenshot from the video chat of you and the men. 

“Oh my god.” Wanda gasps. 

“Is that-” Nat asks. 

Bucky swallows the lump forming in his throat, “Y/n.” 

“We received a video chat from this man here earlier. It’s unclear what the hell he even wants,” Bruce begins, “First it was anger for y/n getting the position he didn’t, then it was wanting the high tech we were working on. Y/n is close to the Avenger’s and she knows a lot of things; important information that could be used to bring all of us down. She also knows all information on that new high tech device we were working on. He’s planning to use her to get what he wants.” 

“She’s not.. She’s only a civilian.” Wanda says, “She’s not trained to hide information. To endure that kind of torture.” 

“Which is why we have to find her asap.” Tony says, glancing at Bucky. 

Bucky clinched his hands in anger. He knew how torture worked and to think of you in that position... “You mean you two don’t know where he has her?” 

“We have no idea.” Tony nods, “The man was good. He’s using different wifi signals which means there’s no pinpointing one location.” 

“We’re looking for her blind.” Bruce says.

Another video request, Mr. Stark. 

“Accept it, F.R.I.D.A.Y.” Tony turns to the screen to see the same man, but this time you’re in worse shape. Your clothes are dirty and torn; your shirt wasn’t covering anything; There was blood dripping down your cheek. 

“Ah all the avenger’s are here this time! What a treat.” The man smiles, “Including Bucky. Aww.. if you should know your little girlfriend here has been begging for you.” 

Bucky stands quickly, the chair screeching along the floor, “I’ll kill you. Don’t you fucking touch her!” He gets closer to the screen. 

“Oh we already have.” he chuckles, glancing at you, “You want to see your little boyfriend? He seems very worried.” Pulling the video closer, you can see the avenger’s staring back. 

“Bucky.” You whimper, “Please..” 

“Shh.. doll it’s okay. We’re going to get you out of there, okay? Just stay strong for me.” His heart breaks to see you like this and there’s absolutely nothing he can do, “I love you, y/n.” 

The video pans back to the man, “how adorable. Not!” He chuckles, “I just wanted to show you what she looks like one more time. Once we’re done with her, she won’t look the same.” He smooths out your hair, “This girl here is very tough but she’s given us some valuable information.” He sighs, “But it’s just not enough yet,” His hand grips your hair and yanks your head back earning a yelp of pain from you. And with that he ended the call once more. 

~ 

It took Steve, Nat, Sam, and Tony to hold Bucky back from leaving the room. He didn’t know where he would be heading, but that didn’t matter. He was going to tear the city apart to find them, to find you. 

“Let me go!” Bucky thrashes against Steve’s tight grip. 

“Buck, we have to be smart about this!” Steve reasons, “We don’t know where she is!” 

A screenshot from the video is put on the screen, “This is the only thing I could capture.” It’s blurry and you can only see half of the symbol but all the Avenger’s recognize it, especially Bucky. 

Bucky calms as he stares at half of the symbol, “That’s.. That’s an old HYDRA base.” It was one step closer to finding you. 

“Do we know which one?” Wanda asks. She was on standby near Bucky in case they couldn’t contain him. 

“Shield took care of all the bases.” Tony says, “Or at least they thought they did. However, it was hard to determine if the ones destroyed were the only ones.”

Bucky’s gears are shifting as he tries to remember his time at Hydra. He tries to think of anything that could have been said to give off some kind of clue. “It had never been used but there was talk about a base on an island north of Russia. It was a backup in case HYRDA was compromised.” 

“That has to be where they are keeping her.” Nat speaks up from beside Steve, “Where else would there be a HYDRA symbol on a wall? Unless someone painted it but..” 

“It’s worth checking out.” Sam says, “There are only a handful of islands north of russia that a HYRDA base could be built.” 

~ 

The last island the avengers check turns out to be the correct one. Using Stark tech, they find out there is 10 guys inside and then another body in a room that they assume is you. They find a place to land the quinjet without the men noticing. 

“We can’t go in there guns blazing.” Sam grabs Bucky’s arm as he’s about to storm out of the quinjet. 

“Sam’s right.” Nat says, “We have the element of surprise and we need to use that to our advantage so that y/n doesn’t end up getting killed in the crossfire.” 

Bucky knows they’re right, but you’re right there in that building. He sighs and nods, “What’s the plan?” 

The plan goes right and within minutes the men are taken out. Bucky was the one to kill the leader for what he’d done to you. Bucky takes off toward the room and when he enters, you’re curled in a ball on the bed.

“Y/n?” 

You look up at your eyes go wide, pushing yourself back against the wall to put as much distance between you and Bucky. You couldn’t even recognize your Bucky. “Please.. please no more.” You whimper, “I’ve told you everything!” 

“It’s me... it’s bucky.” He takes another step closer to you, but it results in a scream from you.

“Please! I can’t take anymore.. I can’t!” You sob with a shake of your head. Your whole body starts to shake with fright. You couldn’t take anymore torture, anymore pain. You were passed your breaking point and you’d already came clean about everything, but that didn’t stop the torture. 

It’s like you don’t even recognize him and his shoulders slump with defeat, “Y/n.. please..” He starts toward you once more and that’s when Nat grabs his shoulder, “she doesn’t recognize you.” She motions to Wanda who uses her power to practically put you to sleep in a calming state. 

It’s then that Bucky can see the damage they did to you. Blood, cuts and bruises all over your body. You’re filthy with dirt and your hair is a mess. You’re only in a ripped t shirt and undergarments. He’s gentle as he picks up your body. 

“She’s asleep.. she can’t feel anything.” Wanda tells Bucky after seeing his careful hands.

“She’s.. covered in these marks..” He holds you against his chest and Nat takes another look at you, “Electric shock. They electrocuted her.” 

He follows behind the rest of the avengers toward the quinjet. He kisses your head, “You’re safe now, doll... I’m here.” 

~ 

It had been almost a month and you hadn’t spoken a word. You wouldn’t speak to anyone, not even Bucky. The doctor’s informed the avengers you’d been traumatized and that it might take you a while to get comfortable again and that it was best to give you time. You’d gone through a lot and you needed time. 

But it was hurting Bucky not to be able to hold you, to comfort or kiss you during this horrible time. He wanted to be there for you, but the closest he could get is watching you through the window on the door. You would start start screaming when anyone from the Avenger’s team came in. Recently you let Nat inside without screaming, but you didn’t say a word to her. 

He could hear your screams from the nightmares and it pained him not be able to hold you in his arms. It was something you did with him when the nightmares would return in the night and you were the only thing that could calm him. He just wanted to be that for you. 

However, one night he couldn’t help himself. You just continued to scream and cry out like you were in pain and he decided that was it. He needed to see if you were okay. He needed to be there for you.

He ran into your room to find you thrashing around in your bed having a nightmare. He rounded the bed to your side, “hey hey, it’s okay.” He shook you awake and your wide eyes met his. “It’s okay...” He waited for the screams to start once you saw him, but they didn’t come. Maybe this was a good sign. He started to back up toward the door in case this turned bad with you. He didn’t want to push it with you. 

Your eyes filled with tears and you didn’t move. The two of you stared at each other for the longest before you spoke the first words in a month, “Don’t go.” 

Relief flooded Bucky’s body and he had to hold back tears, “I’m not going anywhere, doll.” 

You made yourself comfortable in bed once more, turning on your side. Bucky didn’t want to push his luck and decided the chair by your bed would be a good place for him. 

You made sure he wasn’t going anywhere and then let your eyes close. He stayed there in that uncomfortable chair the rest of the night while you slept. You didn’t have another nightmare that night. It was like your mind knew you were safe and you could finally let yourself go. You were safe and he wasn’t going to let anything happen to you again and when you finally realized that, you let Bucky back in. 

All my works tag list:  @blossomreed​ , @mggstyles  , @simonsbluee​ , @thewolf-and-thesheep , @obxrafejjwhore​ , @abbiesthings​ , @itstaskeen​ , @reniescarlett​

Marvel tag list: @hommoturttle​ , @iheartsebastianstan , @5jacobm5 , @lovely-geek , @fangirl-swagg , @1-800-thanos , @jessyballet , @katiaw2 , @yaskna , @dpaccione​

[uwuwriting]

Zoom meetings with the kids w/ Kuroo, Akaashi and Sakusa

Request: I have been stuck inside the house with my three year old brother for the last three weeks and he keeps coming inside my room and entering the zoom call with me. So that had me thinking. How would our favorite Haikyuu dads Kuroo, Akaashi, maybe Kenma or Sakusa react to their toddlers coming into their room and joining their meeting. - anonymous. 

Awww I love haikyuu dads!!!! I have begun making the smau and I’m already like 3 chapters in but I won’t start posting until I’ve finished it or I’m about to finish it. I wanna be sure that I’ll have a trustworthy upload schedule lmao bc my midterms are coming up next week and I’m dying. Love ya. 💖💖💖

masterlist

rules

warning: fluff

Kuroo Tetsuro

-He was in a meeting with the firm for the past three hours. 

-He was absolutely exhausted and the only thing he wanted was to take a nap with his two year old daughter. 

-You were still at the hospital, your shift finishing in about two hours so he was basically alone.

-Your daughter was playing with her toys in his office, being as quiet as she could but exhaustion started to win her over little by little. 

-Yawn after yawn left her lips but since the sound was so small and barely above a whisper, Kuroo hadn’t realized that his little princess was tired. 

-Standing up with wobbly legs she grabbed her cat blankie and rubbed her eyes as she slowly made her way to her father. 

-With one arm hugging her blankie and the other wrapping around Kuroo’s leg, she rested her head on his leg and slowly sank down to the floor, not tugging at his pyjama leg as he expected. 

-Looking down at her he didn’t think twice before bending over and bringing her into his lap. 

-She let out a small sigh before she clutched his shirt in her small fists and was off to dreamland in record time. 

- “Kuroo-san what do you think?” 

- “Sorry my daughter distracted me.”

-And with that he went back to his meeting. 

-Throughout the rest of the meeting Kuroo rested a hand on her back, cupping her little head lightly rubbing soothing circles on her skull, staring down at her every now and then a smile adorning his features every time he saw her nuzzling into his chest.

-She was a female version of him now that he thinks of it.

-She had his crazy raven hair and stunning amber eyes while her face structure reminded him of both you and him. 

-Her personality though was all you. 

-He knew she was very young but she reminded him of you when you two first met more and more each day.

-Right at that moment she let out a small yawn again, her eyes opening slightly as she repositioned herself on his lap and went back to sleep. 

-He couldn’t love her more, at least that’s what he believed. 

-Each day she proved him wrong. 

-Saying goodbye to his coworkers he shut off his computer and went to the living room couch, laying down with his little girl in his arms. 

-Giving her one last kiss he fell asleep, a smile still present on his features. 

Akaashi Keiji 

- “The author said that those new chapters need to be edited by the end of the month. He will send you the rest when you are done with these.” 

-His eyes were bloodshot from the endless hours he had been staring at his screen. 

-Rubbing his eyes he answered every single question that was thrown at him, wishing that this one would be the last one. 

-But the universe wouldn’t have it that way for poor Akaashi making him stay up late again. 

-Thunder rumbled from outside and he wondered whether or not you had taken your son to bed with you. 

-The four year old boy was terrified of storms from a young age, always looking for comfort in either you or Akaashi. 

-But ever since his sister was born he pulled away from you two, he didn’t ask for help anymore even when he needed it and he didn’t wake you up during the night when he had a nightmare.

-Akaashi was amazed to say the least. 

-Neither of you had said anything to him about how your attention would mostly be on the baby and you guys had never dismissed his needs because of your little girl. 

-It worried him how fast his son closed in on himself. 

-He was already a shy and quiet kid but now you barely heard his voice and it broke both of your hearts. 

-Akaashi was determined to help him get out of this phase and be by his side but this assignment took up more of his time than he would’ve liked. 

-Light danced across the room as the door slightly opened but no one stepped in. 

-Keiji was about to stand up when he heard little sniffles and the light pitter patter of feet on the carpet of his office. 

-And soon enough his son rounded the corner of his desk, one arm wiping away tears as the other clutched the stuffed owl his uncle Bokuto had bought him. 

-Without losing a beat Keiji pushed his chair back and brought him in his lap, giving a small apology to his boss before momentarily turning off both camera and mic. 

- “I’m sowwy.” 

- “Shh I’m here, nothing’s gonna hurt you.” 

-Giving him a kiss on each cheek Akaashi let him snuggle in his chest, a strong arm supporting the toddler while simultaneously making him feel safe and protected. 

- “Sir, I’m sorry to interrupt but could we end it here? My son had a nightmare and I want to calm him down.” 

- “Of course Akaashi-san, give my regards to the little man. Goodnight.” 

-And with that the meeting was over and Akaashi was left with a crying child in his arms. 

- “Hey hey, I told you that nothing’s going to hurt you while I’m here. Why don’t we go sleep with mommy hm?” 

- “I’m sowwy…”

-Akaashi kissed his head again bringing him into a tight hug as he got up from his seat. 

- “There is nothing to be sorry for now come on, mommy would want cuddles.” 

 Sakusa Kiyoomi

- “If we use the new quick that Atsumu and Hinata have been practicing then we would have the upper hand momentarily.”

-Kiyoomi let out a sigh as the meeting he had with the team would not seem to end. 

-They had been discussing tactics for the last hour and a half while the rest of the time they had been informed of the new managers they had been assigned. 

-Kiyoomi never expected to be in a zoom call while being an athlete.

-He thought that it would be useless. 

-What were they even gonna do while in the meeting? Practice? 

-But he was proven wrong once the coach called the first meeting and now Sakusa was ready to pull his hair out. 

-Thankfully he was just laying in bed so at least he was comfortable. 

-You had gone out for some much needed grocery shopping leaving Kiyoomi with his son, not wanting to take your child outside with the virus contaminating people left and right. 

-Sakusa loved spending time with his son. 

-He was a low maintenance child, just like he was when he was young, adopting the same hygiene patterns as his father even at the early age of two. 

-He had just started talking and you wouldn't stop having conversations with him, the baby only uttering a simply “dada” or “momma” or even maybe a “yes” or “no” if you were lucky. 

-It made you happy though, seeing your son slowly becoming more independent. 

-Sakusa was also happy but he was also reminded that he wouldn’t stay this young forever; before he knew it his son would be off to high school or college and he wouldn’t fit in his arms anymore. 

-Lost in thought Kiyoomi hadn’t seen the toddler make his way into the room until he felt the covers being pulled as he attempted to get on the bed *and failed bc he’s just too short*

-Letting out a chuckle Sakusa pushed his laptop to the side and leaned down to grab his son, who was now pouting an expression that was a little too similar to yours. 

- “Is that mini Sakusa I see?” 

-Kiyoomi ignored Atsumu as he settled his son on his lap letting the baby wave at the camera as his “uncles” waved back. 

- “Do you mind if he joins?” 

- “Of course not, every Sakusa is welcome.”

-Giving his son one last kiss on his head, Kiyoomi went back to listening to the boring tactics letting his son play with his fingers in the process. 

-Okay maybe it wasn’t that bad now 

TAG TEAM AY:

@the-arcana-fan-fic @angelwritings @axerrri @reinyrei @dnarez @dark-thoughts-and-red-roses @threeamwriting @letscheereachotheron​ @ezoyscorner​ @storage11037​ @wolfkid22

[starfleetwitch]

Tag nine people to get to know them better. Tagged by the wonderful @backjustforberena and @batnbreakfast Thankies :D 

Fav colour: Black (I don’t have a fav colour but this is defo the one I wear the most) 

Currently reading: I’m pretty sure the last thing I read recreationally was @batnbreakfast and @ktlsyrtis ‘s newest Berena masterpiece on Ao3. Aside from that... work stuff.

Last series: Hacks, Private Eyes, Frankie (Again. Because I need facts and absolutely no other reason. Absolutely none.) and The new Digimon 

Last movie: Oh god... again.... recreationally, I don’t remember the last time i watched a film. Maybe Doctor Strange and the multiverse of lesbi- I mean madness? 

Currently working on: Strap in lads... theres quite a lot of things I’ve started and never finished recently. Heres a few: Art work: -Jemma Redgrave and the multiverse of not-quite-coloured Lesbians: This came to a grinding halt because of technical issues.

-Rock Star leather wearing Bernie with pink highlights - (Thank you @sapphicdbc for the prompt)  This ones still in its layout planning stage

-What ever this is: 

-and a bunch of artwork for fics that may never be released. Fanfiction: -A Bunny Bernie fic (also thank you @sapphicdbc for making me write it) based on a Play boy bunny Bernie prompt I was asked to draw by an anon like 5 years ago that will NEVER see the light of day but was found deep in the recesses of my old computer’s harddrive. 

-A Bernie, Zoe, Kate meet fic 

-The next chapter of Still beating (I know... its been 4 years but... shh.)  IRL: -Job applications and Cover letters cause mama needs a new job (booooo) 

Tagging (with no obligation to participate): @shippingsincebeforeyouwereborn @might-be-a-zygon @lord-of-killer-indecencies @help-im-a-medstudent @kayryn @thenthersthat​ @ariverandasong​ I’m not sure I know 9 people who haven’t already been tagged. If I haven’t tagged you but you want to participate, please feel free :) 

[uswntxfootball]

golden (ona batlle x nedwnt!reader)

your crush on the spanish defender was blatantly obvious, so what happens when jackie introduces you to her?

word count: 1934 ish

rated: S for soft bros, I for idiocy, and C for chaotic.

——

you don’t know when your crush on her started.

probably from one of jackie’s story posts.

you’re not entirely sure.

but here you are, double tapping a like on the spanish defender’s new post.

“i’ve never seen someone like something so fast.”

you whip around to see jackie with a teasing smile.

“shut up,” you blush.

“you should let me introduce you to her i-“

“no i’m okay thanks.”

jackie quirks an eyebrow before huffing:

“i don’t understand why you don’t let me introduce you to her. for all you know you could’ve had a girlfriend by now.”

you let out a snort at that.

“yeah right.”

“alright whatever put down your phone and stop staring at her post we’ve got to get to training anyways.”

you shoot a glare at the midfielder, who rolls her eyes upon seeing your response.

and with that, jackie starts walking out of the room.

she makes it halfway down the hall before turning again, only to see you still in the room, staring down at your phone.

“y/n!”

“all right all right i’m coming!”

~~

“y/n.”

you stiffen on the ground.

the room remains silent.

“you know i can see you right?”

you still don’t speak, opting to shuffle slowly and quietly out of the room instead.

you see jackie mute herself and turn in your general direction.

“come say hi or something instead of sitting there in the dark like a weirdo.”

jackie lets out a sigh in defeat and turns back to her computer at your silence.

“guess i’ll talk to her on my own then.”

the midfielder was on a manchester united zoom call, and you, you totally weren’t sneaking in to catch a glimpse of ona… no definitely not.

you continued backing out slowly, but suddenly you hear a heavy spanish accent and your head snaps up…

promptly hitting the table above you.

“fuck!”

you slap your hand over your mouth half a second after your outburst.

jackie turns to you and has to stifle her laughter upon seeing you.

“you’re hopeless, you know that right?”

you let out a pained grunt from under the table, and jackie just shakes her head and laughs at you.

you hear jackie tell her call she’ll be right back and the chair is pulled out from in front of you.

when she ducks down to look at you, you’re rubbing your head and pouting, something that the midfielder finds very amusing.

“come say hi. i’ll introduce you.”

you shake your head vehemently, determined to not do what jackie suggested.

“y/n.”

“yeah?”

“you’re the most stubborn person i’ve ever met.”

“is that a compliment?”

“not really no.”

“well i’m pretending it is one.”

“well it’s really not.”

“shh go back to your meeting and let me pretend in peace.”

~~

“JACKIE!”

jackie jumps and almost drops her toothbrush in fear.

the panicked look on your face disappears temporarily as you laugh at her response, your action causing her to glare at you through the mirror.

“what do you want?”

the panicked look quickly returns.

“why didn’t you tell me about our next game?”

jackie furrows her eyebrows:

“what do you mean? why would i tell you? its not like you’re not at all our team meetings.”

“you know i don’t pay attention to what sarina’s saying ninety percent of the time!”

jackie shuts off the sink and spins around, flinging water in your face before saying:

“and how is that my problem?”

you grab her arm and jackie almost laughs at the expression on your face.

she finally asks:

“what’s wrong with this upcoming game?”

you groan and say:

“it’s against spain that’s what!”

jackie now does laugh, finding your panic funny and reveling in your frankly very sad pining.

“well now you’ll be able to see her in person rather than through a screen for once.”

“THAT”S THE PROBLEM.”

you groan again, and jackie only laughs, pulling you into a hug before saying:

“now can i introduce you to her?”

you pout.

“no”

“you’re so annoying. why won’t you just let me introduce you to her?”

what you say next just makes jackie laugh out loud.

“cuz i’ll be a gay mess.”

she snorts.

“are you always this pathetic?”

you roll your eyes and shoot a glare at her.

“are you always this annoying?”

jackie scowls.

“watch your mouth. or i’ll talk to ona next game.”

well that sure shut you up.

~~

your heart was beating frantically, to the point where you were surprised your teammates couldn’t hear it.

you were on the bus, on the way to your international friendly between the netherlands and spain.

and you.

you were losing your mind.

“y/n!”

you look up when jill calls your name.

“you okay buddy? you look a little sick.”

jill’s concerned tone earned a snicker from jackie beside you, who you promptly kicked in the shin before turning back and smiling at jill, saying:

“yeah just nerves i guess.”

jill’s brows furrowed a little.

“it’s just a friendly dude, you’ll be fine. you’ll nail it.”

jackie adds quietly so only you can hear:

“that’s not the only thing she’ll be nail-ow!”

you elbow her in the ribs before giving jill an apologetic smile, your face sporting a bright red blush.

“thanks jill, appreciate it.”

jill nods slowly and apprehensively before turning back towards viv, the two forwards engaged in conversation once again.

you turn to jackie, who’s doubled over, pouting at you.

you roll your eyes.

“oh stop it you big baby.”

jackie scowls, then grins mischievously.

“i guess i’ll just talk to ona after the match today then…”

your eyes widened in panic.

“no no no i take it back i take it ba-“

“nope i’ve made up my mind.”

“please jackie let me- no- don’t i-“

jackie just sticks her tongue out at you and turns towards the window.

~~

you tried so hard.

so so so hard not to make a fool of yourself on the pitch.

you ended up resorting to not even glancing in the full back’s direction in hopes that that would help.

it didn’t really.

it also didn’t help that the pitch was muddy and therefore slippery.

one can put two and two together.

there was one super embarrassing moment in the first half in which you had the ball and began making your way through the spanish midfield when you saw the number 2 making her way towards you.

you were so nervous in being close to her that she barely touched you and somehow you ended up on the ground.

the ball was put out of play a few seconds after, and the spanish defender stuck her hand out at you to help you up, whispering an “i’m sorry i didn’t mean to push you” which left a bright blush on your cheeks as you managed to get out:

“don’t worry i just slipped.”

but by the end of the game you were getting into your groove, and finally managed to function like a normal and coordinate person around her.

the game ended with a 3-1 win for the netherlands, 2 goals courtesy of viv and 1 from daan.

but all in all, you weren’t all too focused on the game.

you ran to jackie when the whistle blew.

the two of you talked a little bit about the game and slowly the people on the field fell into groups, club teammates saying hi to each other, and old friends finding a topic to talk about again.

you were walking backwards, as you were talking with jackie about the game, something that you did after every game.

you always trusted jackie to tell you if you were going to run into someone.

you should have remembered about that bus conversation.

you saw jackie look past you for a second and before you could turn to see what was ahead you body collided into someone else’s.

one look at jackie’s face and you knew who it was.

luckily for you, or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it, ona’s reactions were quick and promptly held onto your waist to stabilize you before you fell to the ground.

you face was flushed scarlet at the feeling.

jackie approached the two of you.

“ah perfect, y/n, ona, ona, y/n, the two of you talk, i’ve gotta go do something, bye!”

one of these days you were going to kill jackie.

the heavy spanish accent broke you out of your thoughts.

“hey i’m ona.”

you blushed at the proximity.

if you had thought that the spanish defender was pretty in photos, well jeez.

here up close you could see every freckle on her face, her eyelashes, and in all honesty it was too much for you.

you felt like you were going to pass out.

she still hadn’t let go of your waist and the two of you were inches apart from each other.

she seemed to realize this too and quickly let go.

“um i’m y/n..” you mumble, cursing yourself for your ineptitude to talk to people.

well maybe just really really really fucking pretty people.

one of ona’s brows quirked up as if she was thinking about something, and then she said:

“your voice sounds familiar.. you sound like- are you the one who cursed on that one united call?”

you looked down at the grass and blushed harder.

“yeah that would be me.”

ona let out a laugh that made your heart stop in your chest.

“well since jackie’s so keen for us to talk, why don’t we get a coffee sometime and do just that?”

your heart felt like it had disappeared at this point.

“you want to get coffee with me?!”

you cringed internally at how loud and enthusiastic your reply was.

the corners of ona’s mouth tugged up a little and she said:

“well of course, i don’t waste my time when i see something beautiful.”

so your heart was gone. long long long gone.

“y-i-um” you stuttered all over the place, unable to form a coherent sentence.

ona broke out into a full grin (which of course, just made you even weaker at the knees), and said:

“jackie was right, you are cute.”

you really were going to kill jackie one day.

you didn’t realize how quiet you had been until ona speaks up again.

“so about getting coffee…”

she looks up at you expectantly, and you open your mouth before closing it quickly, instead nodding ferociously, something that made ona laugh.

the two of you turn when ona’s name is called from across the field, to see mapi standing with an amused smirk on her face, yelling something in spanish you didn’t understand.

ona turns to you again.

“well i’ve got to go. i’ll text you about coffee?”

you nod and give her a timid wave.

“and it’s a date!”

you blush a little and nod again, not trusting your mouth to speak normally.

she’s halfway across the field when you shout after her:

“wait you don’t have my number!”

ona turns and gives you a one word response:

“jackie!”

you roll your eyes and give her another wave before you turn towards your locker room, where you see jackie standing and watching you.

she mouths an “you’re welcome” in your direction.

you just shake your head.

[abizarreyodelingincident]

Braaaaaaains...

Jason Todd is legally – and biologically – dead. His family noted his lack of pulse at three in the morning, inside the cave, his body laid out on a table with medical instruments.

No, really, tell him something he doesn't know.

What else crawls out of a grave moaning and groaning?

Or, Jason thought his family full of the world's greatest detectives was smarter than this. Apparently not.

****************************************************************

It had been an ordinary night. Calm. The stage for very little costumed crime and barely more regular, non-insane crime as well. Half the menagerie that made up Dick's loving ragtag bunch of younger siblings had even taken the night off.

Nothing should have make him arrive to silence this thick, to this faint echo of sniffling.

He sprinted after the noise.

Damian's fine, left before me. Duke didn't go out, nor did Steph. Babs spent the evening with Cass in the cave, Tim swept the bowery and said he was going to stop by Jason's place to-

He collided with a shaking, tear stained Tim right outside the medbay.

There was a body on the closest table. Others around it, crying, pacing, muttering in denial.

Dick couldn't look.

No, no, please, please no. I can't do that again. I can't!

Scarred skin, too pale – to be Duke or Cass – by death. His breath hitched. No. He. Fuck.

He knew those scars. Those arms. That chest and that fucking Y from navel to shoulders.

“Dick! Jason... he was...  I found him in his apartment. And I brought him to the cave... but... Jason doesn't have a pulse. He's... cold...”

Dick stumbled.

No.

No, no, no, that... that couldn't be real.

He caught himself on his little brother. Brought himself into a hug too tight, as painful as the arms gripping his ribs and back. A grip meant for a lifesaving light at sea. For a safeline over a ravine.

Twice. He'd lost the same brother twice. And this time, he didn't even have the excuse of inexperience and unstable situations. He... he patrolled the city whilst his brother was dead, completely oblivious to the fact. How could he? How dare he not know?!

“Shh, Tim, I'm here. I'm here.” But not for Jason, whispered a vicious part of him.

“What's all this?”

Dick's heart just about stopped.

Damian stood at the entrance to the lockers' room, uniform folded under one arm, hair slightly damp from a shower and Bat-themed pajamas worn without shame. His mild annoyance was proof he had no idea of the drama that had happened not twenty feet from him.

With reluctance, he let go of Tim, a gentle hand lingering on his shoulder, before he took a few steps toward his youngest, most vulnerable brother.

“D-Dami, I... ”   Damn it, he had to be the one to tell Damian about this. Because otherwise, the person to break the news would be Bruce, and-

Shit.

Bruce.

Oh God. How could they possibly tell him- ? After all their fights, the goddamned shattering that had broken the man he had been, and their last conversations even being more admonishment about protocols that Jason had flippantly disregarded. Bruce would never recover. That was it. The end of Batman.

...But first, God he hated himself, wanted to just curl up in a corner and forget everything, first he had a young brother he needed to talk to. One... one little brother less than just this afternoon.

“Jason... ” He swallowed, his throat tight, his heart in denial, the words so damning, but needing to be said. “Jason did not make it. He... he's dead.”

Damian stayed thoughtfully silent.

Not... not the tearful reaction he had expected, but Damian had grown up surrounded by so much death and horror that he would obviously be guarded. And oh, Dick's heart went to his baby brother, and he truly wished he could

“I do not understand. Why such theatrics for the zombie?”

Dick gasped, knowledge warring with the flash of anger.

“Damian! He's our brother!”

“Did he lose his head?” Damian demanded, and Dick's mind buckled.

“Huh, no, but that doesn't have anything to d-”

“Then, why are you acting so weirdly emotional, Richard?”

Before Dick's temper could catch up to his mouth, the longest and most painful-sounding gasp erupted from the medbay, where, to the general shock of all, Jason's gray-ish body shot upward with both his arms raised.

Electroshocks didn't make you jolt like that.

Electroshocks, in fact, remained in their kit on the other side of the medbay, unused. Because Jason had seemingly been dead long before he had been brought to the cave.

That was roughly the moment when Dick's brain caught up with the first of many hints. Latched onto it with a fool's hope.

“... Damian... When you were calling Jason a 'zombie', what did you mean?”

Damian's brows scrunched up together, a look he meant to be intimidating, but had more in common with a disgruntled kitten. “Exactly that, Richard. Do we not have files on zombies in the computer? Dead bodies walking about animated by unholy powers?”

Jason's not- Dick forced the half formed thought to a halt. For once, he rather wanted to be very, very wrong in how he perceived his family.

“What's with all the noise? Can't someone try to sleep like the dead without screaming?” Jason groused. “Should have gotten myself buried ag-OOF!”

“JASON!” screamed the hysterical teenager that had launched himself at a very lively dead body.

“Huhh? Hi, Timmy?” Jason said blearily, ruffling Tim's hair, eyebags suspiciously prominent. “... Fear gas?”

The blinking slowed, the fog of sleep drifting away as he silently begged the rest of them for an answer.

Happily provided by a still crying Tim. “I thought you were gone!”

“What is dead may never die,” Jason quipped, his mouth twisting in that cocksure grin from his Robin days.

And Dick wanted nothing more than to stop right there, pass out from the relief and joy of his little brother being alive and kicking, but...

But... 

That joke. One of many morbidly unfunny jokes and puns.

Bone-deep fatigue crushed his back. A bitter curse for whatever higher forces messing with them echoed strongly inside his skull, before he gave in to the inevitable and inhaled a few times for patience.

“Jason. We thought you were dead-dead.”

With prickly, hedgehog style affection, Jason pushed Tim back and stood up, stretching. “Come off it, Goldie. I wasn't even decapitated. I mean, if you were really worried, you could have just called a necromancer or something.” His expression hardened. “But if you ever call a necromancer on my ass, I'll shoot your perfect glutes.”

Yup, yup, yup, this is happening.

Tim finally wiped the rest of the tears away, helped by one of Stephanie's handkerchiefs, when he froze. “Wait. Your skin's still pale as a corpse.”

The flicker of amusement in Jason's eyes killed it for Dick.

God, how could they have all been this idiotic? If Wally ever learned about this – Shit, did Roy and Kory know before him?!

They were going to laugh their asses off at him.

Jason, unaware of the world recalibration happening in his poor big brother's mind, shrugged and rolled his shoulders – who creaked suspiciously loudly, more like rusty hinges than normal body parts. “Eh, I'm just a bit hungry. Nothing a meal or two won't fix and get some blood flowing back under my s-”

“You're a zombie.”

They turned toward him.

“Way to cross the finish line on time, Mister Rabbit,” Jason drawled.

Barbara, for once, looked completely unprepared. “A zombie,” she repeated, dazed.

Stephanie's nervous giggle died out when she noticed the lack of humor. “... No!”

Cassandra furiously looked down, muttering in her fist. Duke, by contrast, had the expression of a person stuck in a very awkward nightmare.

Even Jason's good-natured ribbing faded in when faced only with the distant screeched of bats. “... Hm, guys, bats, roostery, parasites and octopi? This is old news. What's with all the... ”

He vaguely gestured at their faces.

“Old news?” Tim rasped like he was being strangled.

“I came back from the dead years ago! Come on! Am I in a parallel universe? Hey, Demon Brat,” Jason called, baffled, “you knew, right? I didn't imagine that, right?!”

“Of course, Todd. Mother informed me of everything. Besides, Grandfather's interest in your state of being was of interest for a few weeks. How could I have been ignorant about your zombified state of being?”

In the corner of his eyes, Dick noticed Tim's, Barbara's and Cassandra's expressions all pinching in displeasure. In a way, Dick was reassured. He hadn't been the target of a family-wide hoax to discredit him as an attentive and loving eldest brother. No, he was just naturally blind, apparently.

“He knew?” Tim growled, like it was a personal failing of the fabric of time and space.

Damian's tone was the exact opposite. “And none of you realized...?”

Dick squirmed. “I... huh... you see...”

His baby brother eyed him, completely unimpressed, and for once after years of partnership, Dick felt he deserved every single ounce of it.

“I see... I shall reevaluate the value of this 'detective training' I've been given if this is the result then,” he said, the nearest thing to completely disavowing his older siblings without saying so.  

In other circumstances, perhaps the others would have demanded that Damian stay and explain, but he suspected the quelling look it would have deserved prevented them. Not one of them spoke until Damian had disappeared upstairs and the elevator doors had closed.

“Jason, since when have you been a zombie?”

Jason blinked, jaw hanging. Juuuust enough for some of the scar tissue on his face to stretch past normal. Why did Dick only notice that now?

“Wait, you're all serious? How could you not know? I told you guys!”

And there was Dick's pride rearing its ugly head, because no, no he had not been told and maybe his deductive skills needed a very complete overhaul, but his memory was still excellent!

“You never said that. Heck, we weren't even talking until two years ago!”

“I literally told you all that I crawled out of my grave by myself, groaning the entire time. No experiment, no Lazarus Pit, just a body waking up in its own coffin and deciding to breathe fresh air. Does that not scream 'zombie' to you?”

They cringed.

“Not the only one that returned from beyond,” Babs mumbled. He could see her pull up the mental list right there.

“I greeted you all last meeting with a 'What's up, my bat folks? It's me, your favorite zombie!'. What did you think that meant?”

“That you're an asshole with a morbid sense of humor?” Stephanie quipped, and Jason momentarily paused his indignation to high five her. Fair's fair.

“Okay, but what about that time I got shot in the chest and I told you all not to worry about it?”

“I just figured you were going to get stitched up by Leslie or yourself, you know, regular bat neuroses,” Tim confessed.

Dick made a mental note to keep a much closer eye on Tim's patrols for the next few months.

“From a bullet chest wound?” Jason asked with an incredulousness that was not at all earned, because he was a freaking zombie!

“I thought your armor had blocked it! The hole wasn't bleeding!” Tim protested, cheeks red and tone defensive.

“Well, yeah,” Jason replied. “I don't bleed. It's like some fruit pulp or something. Ain't coming out if you don't press. My heart's not pumping.”

That's a 'nevermind' on the smoothie I saved for after patrol.

“Well, I know that now,” Tim said.

“I feel like I should write it down on the plaque or something,” Jason still sounded amazed, and might have pinched his arm just to be sure he hadn't been daydreaming, “Like, 'a good soldier AND A VERY DISCRETE ZOMBIE!' in big flaming letters. With a spotlight. And a dictionary opened on 'Zombie' or 'Undead'. You know, just in case the next batbrat to come along needs a few subtle hints about my true nature. What'd you think, Dick?”

He could not have been blushing harder than he currently was. “I think shut up.”

“Of course. What about when I shoved my deadly cold toes at Tim under a blanket?”

“Cold feet.”

“Never eating around you guys?”

“Daddy issues with Bruce,” Barbara deadpanned, and got a sock thrown at her for her honesty.

However, Duke, poor kid, turned green. “Wait, so when you offered me some jellied brain... was that not a death joke?”

Dick's stomach spontaneously shrivelled.

By the grimaces and sharp inhales all around, that was a common reaction.

Then the worst possible thing happened: Jason grinned.

He strutted, all confidence and brashness, and viper-quick, snatched an arm around Duke's shoulder. “Narrows, Nightlight, my tiny bitsy bro, everything I do is a death joke. My very existence laughs at death.”

Inside the batcave, the groaning was long-suffering and shameful.

“But that was actually brains,” Duke countered.

“Yeah. Calf brains. It's a delicacy.”

Tim massaged his forehead. What a mood.

Duke narrowed his eyes. “It was purely for the joke, wasn't it?”

Jason patted him on the back so hard Duke faltered. “One tragically wasted on your obtuse mind. I prefer me some Tête fromagée instead. Less like grainy jello.”

Stone-faced, Barbara wheeled herself toward the batcomputer. There, upon a series of quick clicks, she opened up the Bats's files. “Alright, you had your fun. Do you need to eat brains or are you just the world's least funny meathead?”

“I'm the world's most misunderstood vigilante!” Jason loudly protested, milking their pain for all it was worth. And then some. “But yeah, I do. No grey matter in there” -- he tapped his belly -- “no thinking up here.” -- his skull.

“Need some better quality brains then,” Tim stage-whispered to Stephanie.

Cass pointed the finger at Jason. “No killing for brains.”

Jason's good humor flickered with a flash of green. “Ain't ever done it, never will. It's a matter of morals, not hunger, Cass.”

Dick swooped in that minefield before it exploded.

“Great! Proud of you, Jay! You're the good kind of vegetarian zombie,” he said, putting an arm around his ginormous little brother's shoulders.

Wait a minute...

“Hey, you're older than when you died! Zombies don't age.”

“No, I was thrown into a Lazarus Pit, and the evil waters cured the malnutrition-induced delay on my growth. Haven't aged a day since.”

“I just thought you had a weird babyface thing going on,” Tim said.

Jason's grin turned sardonic. “Quite the opposite, Timber.”

Dick put his head in his hands in some vain attempt to prevent his brain from leaking through his ears.  With his luck, his little brother would 'playfully' eat some of it. “There's no way you look this rugged at biologically sixteen! I refuse to believe that.”

“Can you imagine my power if I'd been allowed to reach my full potential?” Jason leered, eyebrows waggling like waves in a sea at storm. “So many heart attacks.”

Barbara and Cassandra exchanged a silent look, and, after a solemn nod, Cassandra reached up to slap Jason upside the head.

“Thank you, Cassandra,” Barbara told her. “Jason, never do such a thing again.”

The disgruntled groan that followed must have been on purpose, because Jay was indeed an asshole.

“Besides, it's not like the world will ever know,” Tim said, cutting, a smirk hiding by his hand.

Dick really thought his little brother was far too relaxed upon learning that Jason was one with the undead. Sure, they had all encountered various levels of zombies during their missions, from all sorts of oral traditions and cultures, alien viruses and hidden nanobots piloting meat puppets. It wasn't even classified as a nation-wide crisis to encounter free-roaming zombies. But since the chronically unalive individual in question was one of their own, Dick felt he was owed at least a whole evening of frazzled panic and incomprehension for once.

“Oh?” Stephanie instead asked, sensing blood.

Tim shrugged. “Well, you know, no pulse, no blood flow,” he said with an angled eyebrow nodding at Jason's crotch

Stunned silence followed, their expressions varying from disgust, horror, unholy glee and, from Jason himself, wide-eyed shock that his shrimp of a little brother had had the balls to assimilate the zombieness fast enough to mock him for him.

Dick prayed for patience. For fortitude. And for an alternate timeline where he was an only child.

Why, for all the love of cotton candy and professional uncriminal clowns, did Tim put THAT image of Jason inside their brains? What had he done, him, a loving model for all of society, to suffer like this?

Maybe if he asked nicely, Jason would eat the image out of his head. He owed Dick that much after this clusterfuck of a conversation.

“Ooooooooh,” Stephanie crooned, miming getting dunked on. With acrobatics.

Jason huffed. “Like I was ever interested in the first place. I ain't Dick.”

“Okay, no slut shaming or virgin shaming, in fact, no shaming at all, please. In this house, we accept all sexualities, but we don't give out raunchy details about any of it, I only have so much brain bleach.”

“Share?” Duke pleaded in a whisper.

Oh, I wish I could, you young innocent soul.

A few beeps turned their attention back to Barbara and the batcomputer. “Well, that's one long overdue update to Jason's files. Anyone else want to share their 'obvious' medical condition?”

“Excuse you, being dead is not a medical condition.”

“I will make you wish for the peace of the grave, Jason.”

Droplets dripped from nearby stalactites.

A few bats flew overhead.

Jason turned to them like nothing had been said.

“Right. That was fun. Best night of my month. Can't wait to tell the Outlaws.”

Dick resigned himself to a series of unflattering texts by the absolute dickheads that were his second family. He could already tell the messages would blow up his phone to the Moon. 'You didn't know your brother that came back from the dead is a zombie?!'

“Have mercy and wait tomorrow morning?”

That smile could have been great or terrible. “You're lucky I'm in a spectacularly good mood, Dick.”

He had lifted his leg over his bike's seat when Duke was struck by genuine worry.

“Wait. Does Bruce know?”

Jason barked out a laugh.

“Of course he does! God knows he's got some massive blind spots, but he's obsessive, paranoid and I find subcutaneous trackers on me every week. No way he didn't get the hint before now.”

But, as his gaze went over the rest of them, his good cheer dimmed, his grin slipping off his face as surely as a bit of decayed flesh.

“... Right?”