#and now it's ssh week so hey

[you-have-made-a-fatal-error]

ssh - in the garden! in the garden!

Lápida de Dupaix - Palenque, 7th century CE; excavated in 1807; on display at the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, Mexico.

Yaxchilán Lintel 26 - Yaxchilán, 723 CE; excavated in 1897; on display at the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, Mexico.

Hauberg Stela - [???], 300-500 CE; first exhibited in 1970; on display at the Princeton University Art Museum, New Jersey (donated by John H Hauberg).

Yaxchilán Lintel 16 - Yaxchilán, 755-770 CE; excavated in 1880s; on display at the British Museum, UK.

Yaxchilán Lintel 25 - Yaxchilán, 725-760 CE; excavated in 1880s; on display in the British Museum, UK. (HERE is a really neat breakdown of the building 23 lintels, along with incredibly detailed pics!)

Backrest of a throne with a ruler, a courtier (probably a woman) and a deity in the center - Usumacinta River Valley (possibly Piedras Negras), Late Classic Period (600-909 CE); on display at the Museo Amparo, Mexico.

Calakmul Stela 51 - Calakmul, 731 CE; excavated in 1931; stolen in the 1960s when it was cut into pieces to ease transportation (if you zoom in at the link you can see the lines where the pieces have been reassembled); on display at the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, Mexico. (further info HERE)

Copán Alter G1 - Copán, 766 CE; excavated in the 1800s; replica (pictured above) on display outdoors in the Grand Plaza at the Copán ruins site, while the original can be seen inside the on-site Museo de Esculturas. Copán, Honduras. (the British Museum has some neat photos of the site at Copán and Alter G1 as it appeared in 1890/91, click ‘Related Objects’ to view them)

Presentation of Captives to a Maya Ruler - Usumacinta River Valley (possibly Yaxchilán), 785 CE; purchased on the art market in 1970; on display at the Kimbell Art Museum, Texas. (check out the paint that’s still visible on this one! that’s so cool!)

Yaxchilán Lintel 15 - Yaxchilán, 770 CE; excavated in 1880s; on display at the British Museum, UK. (note the similarities between this design and that of lintel 25 above!)

[moonselune]

Mayhaps, if you'd like to do one with all the companions, (if not just the ladies are fine^^):

Comforting Tav over something seemingly insignificant, a small inconvenience (dropped food, easy to repair broken item, a shop not having the one thing they're looking for, ECT), but it's just the thing that broke the camel's back, and all the stress and worry and hardship catches up to Tav

this one took a while to do but I hope its okay ! Added Rolan to it but not Raphael as I genuinely think he would simply just magic you away because he would just not want to deal with that - not very order and decorum of you.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Karlach:

You and Karlach had been on the road for weeks, dealing with countless threats and challenges. Today, you had looked forward to a simple pleasure: a meal cooked over the campfire, a small respite from the chaos. But as you carried the pot of stew to the table, you tripped over a root and spilled it all over the ground.

Karlach saw the accident and rushed over, her eyes wide with concern.

"Easy soldier, you got mouths here, to feed not the ants," she said, trying to sound upbeat but she noticed you were very much not sharing the same vibe as her. "Hey, it's okay! We can make more,"

But something inside you snapped. The spilled stew was the final straw. You dropped to your knees, staring at the mess, and felt tears welling up in your eyes. All the stress, the exhaustion, and the constant battle against the odds suddenly came crashing down on you. Karlach immediately knelt beside you, her large, warm hand on your shoulder. "Hey, hey, it's alright. It's just stew. We'll figure it out," she said softly.

You shook your head, unable to hold back the sobs. "It's not just the stew, Karlach. It's everything. I'm so tired. I'm so stressed. I can't keep doing this."

Karlach's eyes widened in panic. She wasn't used to seeing you like this. She wrapped her arms around you, pulling you into a tight embrace.

"Shh, ssh, it's okay. Let it out," she whispered, stroking your back awkwardly but tenderly. "Shhh,"

You clung to her, the warmth of her embrace grounding you as you let the tears flow. Karlach continued to hold you, her voice a soothing murmur in your ear.

"We're in this together, okay? You don't have to carry it all by yourself. I'm here. We'll get through this."

Her words, combined with her reassuring hold on you, slowly began to calm you down. As your sobs subsided, you leaned back and looked at her, seeing the worry and care in her eyes.

"I'm do sorry," you mumbled, wiping your eyes. "I didn't mean to break down like that. I-"

"-Don't apologize. You're allowed to feel overwhelmed." Karlach shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "You're allowed to need a break. We'll take it one step at a time, okay?"

You nodded, feeling a little lighter, and Karlach pressed a kiss to your forehead. The two of you sat there for a little while longer, basking in each other's warmth and slowly you began to feel all of those broken pieces start to mend together.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Minthara:

You were in a bustling market, searching for a specific ingredient for a potion. After hours of looking and dealing with the noise and chaos, you finally found the stall that supposedly had it. But as you reached the front, the vendor shook his head. "Sorry, sold out."

That was it. The final straw. You felt a surge of frustration and helplessness. "What do you mean sold out, we need that-"

Before you knew it, tears were streaming down your face. You tried to hold them back, embarrassed by your reaction, hiding your head in your hands, hoping nobody would notice but it was too late. Minthara, who had been silently watching your back, noticed your distress immediately. She stepped forward, her eyes narrowing at the vendor before turning to you. You were now shaking, unable to move, stuck in a cycle of crying, trying not to show yourself crying and crying more. Minthara put a hand on your shoulder, glaring at the vendor before you both.

"Excuse us," she said coldly to the vendor. Without another word, she scooped you up effortlessly and slung you over her shoulder. You were too overwhelmed to protest, your emotions a tangled mess. She carried you to a quieter, more secluded alley away from the bustling crowd. Once there, she set you down gently and knelt before you, her eyes searching yours.

"What happened?" she asked, her voice demanding but surprisingly soft.

You tried to speak, but the words came out in a choked sob. "It's… it's just too much. Everything is going wrong. I'm so tired, Minthara. I can't keep doing this."

Minthara's expression softened, and she reached out, gently cupping your face in her hands.

"You are strong, but even the strongest need a moment to breathe," she said, her voice steady and calm. "You don't have to carry this burden alone."

You leaned into her touch, feeling a mixture of shame and relief. "I'm sorry. It's such a small thing to get upset over. It's shameful."

"It is not." `Minthara shook her head and as you tried to bow your head, trying to hide from her gaze, but Minthara was relentless, jerking your head up and back to her. " And it's not just the small thing. It's everything that led up to it. You are allowed to feel overwhelmed."

She pulled you into an embrace, her strong arms holding you close. "Rest here for a moment. Take your time," she murmured. "We'll face this together."

Her words and presence brought a sense of calm over you. You clung to her, letting the tears flow as she held you. In that moment, you felt safe and understood. Minthara's quiet strength and unwavering support were exactly what you needed.

After a while, you pulled back, feeling a bit more composed. Minthara looked at you, a hint of a smile on her lips. "Feeling better?"

You smiled, wiping your eyes. "Yes. Thank you, Minthara."

"Good. Though my only request is that next time you share your worries with me." You nodded and she stood up, offering you her hand. Now, let's find another way to get what we need. We won't let this defeat us."

"Minthara?" You call out to her quietly and she looks at you, her eyes wide, waiting on your every word.

"Yes, my love?"

You didn't answer her, just leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her lips, pulling away with a smile. "I love you, entirely."

"I love you too."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Lae'zel:

The day had been a long string of battles and challenges, leaving you exhausted. When you finally made it back to camp, you realised your weapons had grown dull. Pulling out your dagger you began to sharpen it, but either from the strength of your frustration that had built over the past few days, or the excessive use of it, it snapped.

You stared at the mess, the broken pieces of dagger on the floor, glinting back at you almost mockingly in the evening sun. You felt the weight of all your stress and fatigue crash down on you. Tears welled up in your eyes, and you dropped to your knees.

Lae'zel, who had been sharpening her own blade nearby, looked up at the sound of the dagger breaking. She saw you kneeling by the broken pieces, tears streaming down your face. With a determined stride, she approached you and knelt down beside you.

"This is but a minor setback, a weak dagger clearly" she said firmly, her voice calm and pragmatic. "I have many, have one of mine. The battle is not lost."

You shook your head, unable to hold back the sobs. "It's not just the dagger, Lae'zel. It's everything. I'm so tired. I can't keep doing this."

Lae'zel's eyes softened slightly, and she placed a hand on your shoulder, her grip firm and reassuring. "You are stronger than this, and we will face these challenges together. Allow yourself a moment of weakness, but do not let it consume you."

For once her practical approach, and slight criticism, began to ground you. You took a deep breath, trying to regain your composure.

"We will rise above this," she continued, her voice steady as she awkwardly pat you on the shoulder. "Together, we will face whatever comes our way. You are not alone in this, I am here, place your burdens upon me."

''I don't want to do that though-'

"-Do you not think me strong enough? You think your burdens above me?" Lae'zel asked in slight outrage and you couldn't help but laugh at her sincerity.

"No, of course not, my love." You smiled as you rested your head on your shoulder, feeling a bit more in control. She helped you to your feet, her grip never faltering.

"We will clean this up and get you a new blade, one worthy of your strength" she said, her tone decisive. "And we will succeed."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Shadowheart:

The branch whacks you across the face, a stinging reminder of the day's endless frustrations. It's the final straw. Rage bubbles up, hot and uncontrollable. You raise your hand, the words of a fireball spell forming on your lips. This stupid, unyielding piece of nature is about to feel your wrath.

"Stop!" Shadowheart's voice cuts through your fury, sharp and commanding.

You freeze, your breath coming in ragged gasps. She steps between you and the offending tree, her dark eyes filled with concern. She places a hand on your arm, gently but firmly.

"Calm down," she says, her voice softer now, soothing and she raises her brows at you. "Starting a forest fire isn't going to help us on our travels and it's just going to annoy the two druids."

The fireball dissipates in your hand, and the anger that fueled it ebbs away, leaving behind a hollow emptiness. The tears come then, hot and bitter. You collapse to your knees, the weight of everything crashing down on you. Shadowheart kneels beside you, her arms encircling you, holding you close.

"It's alright," she whispers, her voice a balm to your wounded soul. "I'm here."

You sob into her shoulder, the days of pent-up frustration and exhaustion pouring out in a torrent. She holds you tight, her presence a steady anchor in the storm of your emotions.

"I'm so tired," you manage to say between sobs. "So tired of everything."

"I know," she says, her hand gently rubbing your back. "I know. But attacking nature won't help. You can always come to me. Let me share your burden."

Her words are like a lifeline, pulling you back from the brink. You cling to her, the warmth of her body grounding you. Slowly, your sobs subside, and you lift your head to look at her. Her face is filled with such tender concern that it makes your heart ache.

"Thank you," you say, your voice hoarse but sincere.

She smiles, a small, gentle curve of her lips. "Anytime, my love."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Jaheira

The past few days had been a relentless series of challenges, and your nerves were already frayed when you entered a small shop in Baldur's Gate. You were searching for a particular herb that Jaheira needed for her potions, a task that should have been simple. When the shopkeeper informed you that they were out of stock, it felt like the final straw. Your composure shattered, and you felt tears welling up in your eyes.

You tried to hold them back, but the weight of stress, exhaustion, and frustration was too much. You turned away from the shopkeeper, not wanting to make a scene, but the tears started to fall. Jaheira, who had been examining a display of potions nearby, noticed your distress immediately. She approached you with a quiet urgency, her eyes filled with concern.

"What's wrong, my heart?" she asked gently, her voice steady and soothing. You shook your head, unable to speak as the tears continued to flow.

"I… I can't do this anymore," you finally managed to say, your voice trembling. "Everything's just… too much."

Without another word, Jaheira wrapped her arms around you, pulling you into a firm, comforting embrace. She didn't offer empty platitudes or try to tell you that everything would be fine. Instead, she simply held you, letting you cry against her shoulder. Her presence was solid and reassuring, a rock in the storm of your emotions.

"It's okay to let it out," she murmured, her hand gently stroking your hair. "You've been carrying a heavy burden. Let me share it with you."

You clung to her, feeling the warmth of her body and the strength of her support. Gradually, the tension in your muscles began to ease, and your sobs turned into quiet sniffles. Jaheira continued to hold you, her calm and steady presence providing a safe space for you to release your pent-up emotions.

"Thank you," you whispered, your voice still shaky but filled with gratitude. "I needed that."

Jaheira pulled back slightly, cupping your face in her hands and wiping away your tears with her thumbs. "We all have moments like this," she said softly. "It's nothing to be ashamed of. We'll get through this together."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Gale:

The day had been a whirlwind of tasks and responsibilities, leaving you mentally and physically drained. When you finally returned to camp, you decided to prepare a simple meal for everyone. However, as you were carrying the pot of stew to the fire, you tripped over a loose stone and spilled the entire pot onto the ground. It was a small accident, but it was enough to push you over the edge.

You stood there, staring at the ruined meal, feeling a surge of frustration and despair. Tears welled up in your eyes, and you began to shake, overwhelmed by the stress and exhaustion that had been building up for days.

Gale, who had been organizing his spell components nearby, noticed your distress immediately. He rushed over, concern etched on his face.

"Hey, what's wrong, my beloved?" he asked gently, his voice filled with worry.

"It's just… everything," you said, your voice breaking as tears started to fall as you gestured to everything around you. "I can't handle it anymore. I'm so tired, and now this…"

Gale's expression softened, and he reached out to take your hand. "Come here," he said softly, guiding you to a nearby log to sit down. He knelt in front of you, still holding your hand, and looked into your eyes with a calm and steady gaze.

"Let's do some breathing exercises," he suggested. "It might help you feel a bit better. Just follow my lead."

You nodded, too overwhelmed to speak. Gale began to breathe slowly and deeply, and you mimicked his actions. Inhale… exhale… inhale… exhale. The rhythmic pattern of his breathing, combined with his presence, his love, it started to soothe your frayed nerves.

"Focus on your breath," Gale said gently. "Let the tension flow out with each exhale."

As you continued to breathe with him, you felt your body gradually begin to relax. The tears slowed, and the tight knot of anxiety in your chest started to loosen. Gale's hand remained steady in yours, a grounding force that helped you find your center.

"Thank you," you whispered, your voice still shaky but calmer than before. "I love you."

"I love you too," Gale smiled, a warm and understanding expression on his face. "We all have moments when things become too much. It's okay to feel overwhelmed. But please, my love, do not suffer alone. It breaks my heart to see you shed tears like this."

"I'm sorry I-"

"-I do not need you to apologise," Gale whispered as he pressed his forehead against yours. "I just need you, no matter how you feel, okay?"

"Okay" You weakly smile and bury your head into his shoulder, your tears staining his robes but he couldn't care. He just held you and slowly everything seemed to be alright.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Astarion:

The day had been long and grueling, filled with minor inconveniences and stressful encounters that had worn down your patience. You found yourself in the middle of camp, trying to prepare a simple meal. As you were chopping vegetables, your knife slipped, and the entire bowl of carefully prepared ingredients tipped over, spilling onto the ground.

It was a minor accident, but it was the final straw. Tears welled up in your eyes, and you felt a wave of frustration and hopelessness wash over you. Your hands trembled as you stared at the mess on the ground, unable to hold back the sobs that were threatening to escape.

Astarion, who had been lounging nearby, noticed your distress immediately. He stood up and approached you, his eyes narrowing in concern. "What's wrong with you now?" he asked, his voice a mix of irritation and worry.

"I can't… I just can't do this anymore," you choked out between sobs. "Everything's going wrong, and I can't handle it."

Astarion's expression softened, but his way of comforting was unorthodox. He got you to your feet and held you by your shoulders and looked at you straight on.

"Get it together!" he exclaimed, his voice tinged with urgency. He had never seen you like this and he was panicking as it was stirring unexpected emotions in him."If you keep crying like this, I might start crying too, and that would be a disaster, because I am not a pretty crier!"

Despite his harsh words, there was a hint of genuine concern in his eyes. You couldn't help but let out a weak laugh through your tears. His attempt at tough love was oddly endearing.

"Look, darling" Astarion said a bit less panicked now, "Life is a series of unfortunate events, especially for us. But you can't let every little thing break you. You're stronger than this."

He reached out and gently lifted your chin, forcing you to meet his gaze. "And if you need to cry, fine. But don't think for a second that you're alone in this. We've all had our moments of weakness, even I - though it may be hard to believe"

You giggle and sniffled, wiping your tears away. Astarion's seemingly tough exterior was still present, but there was a warmth in his eyes that reassured you. "Thanks, my love."

He stood up and offered you his hand, pulling you to your feet. "Now, let's clean this up and make something edible. And try not to spill anything this time, alright?"

His playful tone lightened the mood, and you couldn't help but smile. He pulled you into a quick embrace and gave you a reassuring squeeze and kiss on the head before sending you on your way.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Wyll:

It had been one of those days where nothing seemed to go right. The constant stress and pressure had been building up, and when you finally returned to camp, you just wanted a moment of peace. As you unpacked your belongings, a small, cherished trinket slipped from your hands and shattered on the ground.

It was a minor inconvenience, but it was the last straw. Tears welled up in your eyes, and you felt a wave of despair wash over you. Your vision blurred as you tried to gather the broken pieces, your hands shaking uncontrollably.

Wyll, who had been tending to the campfire, noticed your distress immediately. He stood up and walked over to you, his expression filled with concern.

"Hey, what's wrong?" he asked softly, kneeling beside you.

"I can't… I just can't do this anymore," you choked out, your voice trembling. "Everything's going wrong, and I can't handle it."

Wyll's heart ached at the sight of your tears. He reached out and gently took your hands in his, his touch warm and reassuring.

"Shh, it's alright," he murmured, his voice soothing. "You're not alone. I'm here."

He pulled you into a gentle embrace, holding you close as you cried against his shoulder. His strong arms wrapped around you, providing a sense of safety and comfort that you desperately needed. He didn't say anything for a while, simply letting you release your pent-up emotions.

After a few moments, Wyll pulled back slightly and cupped your face in his hands, his thumbs gently wiping away your tears. "Sometimes, it's the small things that push us over the edge," he said softly. "But you don't have to carry this burden alone. Let me help you."

His words and his unwavering support helped you find your footing again. You took a deep breath, feeling a sense of calm wash over you. "Thank you, Wyll," you whispered, your voice still shaky but filled with gratitude.

Wyll smiled warmly, his eyes filled with compassion. "Always," he replied. "Now, let's see if we can fix this, shall we?"

Together, you carefully gathered the broken pieces of your trinket. With Wyll's help, you managed to repair it, and the simple act of working together helped you regain your composure.

"See? Good as new!" Wyll smiled as he presented it to you, you took it with a small smile, nodding your head in thanks as you held it to you chest, the trinket becoming even more cherished now.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Halsin:

The potion fizzles and pops, releasing a pungent, acrid smoke. Your heart sinks as the mixture turns an unnatural shade of green, clearly ruined. It's a small thing, a simple potion gone wrong, but after days of pent-up frustration and exhaustion, it's the final straw. Your shoulders slump, and the tears you've been holding back for days finally spill over.

You drop the vial, not caring as it shatters on the floor. Halsin, who has been quietly reading in the corner, looks up, concern etching deep lines into his kind face. He rises and crosses the room in a few swift strides, his presence warm and comforting.

"Hey," he says softly, wrapping his strong arms around you. "It's okay. It's just a potion."

But it's not just a potion. It's everything. The endless challenges, the constant sense of impending doom, the weight of the world pressing down on you. You bury your face in his chest, sobbing uncontrollably. He holds you tighter, his hand gently stroking your hair.

"It's alright," he murmurs. "Let it out. I'm here."

You feel the warmth of his body, the steady beat of his heart, and slowly, the storm inside you begins to calm. You pull back slightly to look at him, and to your surprise, you see tears glistening in his eyes. His lips tremble as he tries to hold them back, but he fails. He begins to cry, his tears mingling with yours.

"I'm sorry," he says, his voice breaking. "I just hate seeing you like this."

The sight of Halsin, this strong, stoic druid, crying because you are crying, tugs at something deep inside you. A laugh bubbles up, surprising you. It's absurd and adorable, and somehow it breaks through the lingering sadness.

"You big softie," you say, wiping away his tears with your thumb.

He laughs too, a shaky, relieved sound, and pulls you into another hug. "I can't help it," he says. "I love you too much to see you in pain."

You cling to him, finding comfort in his warmth and his tears. The moment, though born from frustration and exhaustion, becomes tender and you can breathe easier now. Halsin kissed the top of your head and the two of you stay there for a while, basking in each other's presence.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Rolan:

The day had been a series of small misfortunes, and the final blow came when you discovered that the shop you had been counting on didn't have the one item you desperately needed. It seemed like such a trivial thing, but in that moment, it felt like the weight of the world was crashing down on you. Tears pricked at your eyes, and you felt the overwhelming urge to scream in frustration.

Rolan, who had been browsing a nearby shelf, noticed your distress. His usual confident demeanor faltered as he saw the tears welling up in your eyes.

"Hey, what's going on?" he asked, his voice tinged with worry.

You tried to speak, but the words caught in your throat. Instead, a sob escaped, and you quickly covered your mouth, embarrassed by your outburst. Rolan's eyes widened, clearly panicked. He wasn't used to dealing with such emotional meltdowns. Bickering nd arguing he could deal with, this he was a lot less prepared for.

"Uh, okay, let's… let's figure this out," he stammered, awkwardly placing a hand on your shoulder.

The small gesture was enough to break the dam. You began to cry in earnest, the stress and worry of the past days pouring out in a torrent of tears. Rolan looked around, unsure of what to do, but his concern for you was evident.

"Hey, it's okay, beloved" he said, trying to sound reassuring despite his own uncertainty. "We'll figure this out. Just… let it out."

His awkward but sincere attempt to comfort you made you feel a bit better. You took a few deep breaths, trying to steady yourself. "I'm sorry," you managed to say between sobs. "It's just been so much, and this… this was the last straw."

Rolan's expression softened, and he squeezed your shoulder gently. "No need to apologize, dearest. We all have those days," he said, his voice a bit steadier now. "How about we take a break and sit down for a bit? We can figure things out from there."

He led you to a quieter corner of the shop, and you both sat down. Rolan fumbled for a moment before pulling out a handkerchief and offering it to you. "Here, use this," he said, his tone gentle.

You took the handkerchief and wiped your tears, feeling a bit more composed. "Thank you, Rolan. I just… I couldn't hold it in anymore."

Rolan nodded, his expression understanding. "It's okay. Sometimes, we just need to let it out. And I'm here for you, even if I'm not the best at this."

You couldn't help but smile at his honesty. "You're doing just fine," you said, grateful for his support.

Rolan relaxed a bit, relieved that he was able to help in some way. "Alright, then. Let's take a few more minutes, and when you're ready, we'll go find that item together."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

Hope you all enjoyed it! - Seluney xoxo

[harley-sunday]

Feels Like Home [08]

Summary: When an unexpected three-week break between Monza and Singapore finds Daniel back on his farm in Perth he’s desperate to use this time to clear his mind, figure out his future in Formula One, and find his way back. He didn’t expect a new neighbour, a sassy two-year old, and three alpacas would make him realise that sometimes, what you’re looking for is right in front of you.

Pairing: Daniel Ricciardo x reader (unnamed OFC)

Warnings: Language. Smut. Probably NSFW (Finally, right?)

Word count: 5.7k

AN: It’s probably weird to say this about your own writing, but I love this part. Mostly because I’m a sucker for a nice full circle moment but also because I’ve grown these three characters so much. I hope you like it as much as I do ♥

Masterlist

A quick glance at your watch tells you you’ve got about thirty minutes left until Ellie wakes up from her nap and even though there are still some chores you need to do, you decide to grab yourself a cup of coffee and sit outside on the porch for a bit, so you can try to figure out how to talk to Granddad about maybe hiring a farmhand. Not just to help you out now but also after, when you’re- When he’s fully recovered. It’s definitely too much work for one person and even Granddad fully recovers, he’s seventy-eight, you’re not sure if he’ll be able to manage the growing herd of alpacas.

You’re a little lost in thoughts when you hear a car come down the driveway, a blue Toyota you think you recognise from somewhere, and so you stand up, ready to greet your visitors, wondering who it can be.

Are you a little surprised to see Grace and Joe step out of the car? Yes. 

Maybe. 

Ok, not really.

“Hello sweetheart,” Grace says as she walks over to you. She kisses your cheek before she hugs you, holding you tight.

“Hi,”

When you let go of her Joe is already waiting, wrapping his arms around you carefully, “Hiya.” 

“What-” You look from Joe to Grace and back, “What are you doing here?”

Joe lets go of you and nods to Grace, “It was her idea.”

Grace smacks his chest, “Hey. No.” She lets out a laugh then and shrugs, “Well, it was but-” 

“Daniel called you, didn’t he?”

“Yes,” Grace nods, taking your hand in hers. “I mean, I had plans to come visit you soon anyway, you know, have a cuppa together, but when Danny called us yesterday and said you had two new alpacas to take care of, well-” She squeezes your hand, “We figured we’d come over and see if there’s anything we can help with.”

“Plus, it’s been too long since I’ve seen old Oscar,” Joe says from where he’s standing behind Grace. “I was long overdue for a visit anyway.” 

You’ve been a little on edge ever since Daniel left but so far you’ve been pretty good at hiding it, at not letting your emotions get the best of you, but now- You lower your eyes and bite your lip but it’s no use because once you blink the tears are streaming down your face.

“Hey, no,” Grace says, her voice soft and soothing. She pulls you in for another hug, her hands rubbing your back, “It’s ok, sweetheart.”

“I’m sorry,” you manage in between sobs. “It’s just- I- The girls- And Ellie- And-”

“Ssh,” Grace shakes her head. “It’s ok.” She holds you a little longer, waits until you’ve calmed down before she lets go of you and puts her hands on your arms, making you look at her, “We’re here for you, ok? Joe can take Oscar to go check on the girls for a bit and I will stay here with you so we can do whatever needs to be done around the house, ok?” 

“Thank you.” You use the sleeve of your sweater to dry your eyes and try to smile.

Grace tuts, “Don’t worry about it, sweetheart.” She nods towards the house, “Why don’t we go inside?”

Granddad greets Grace and Joe like they’re old friends and you find out they’ve seen each other a few times before, when Daniel first moved in. Joe and Granddad settle into some easy banter between them and it isn’t long before they head outside, so Joe can take him to Eagle’s Nest and check up on the rest of the paddocks. 

You hear Ellie call for you from upstairs then and so you excuse yourself and tell Grace you’ll be right back. Ellie’s waiting for you in her cot, looking at you expectantly, as if she knows someone else is here.

“Hi bub,” you pick her up and head to the changing table so you can change her into her clothes. “Guess who’s here?”

Ellie’s eyes grow wide, “Danny?” 

Your heart. Oh, your heart when you see her smile drop, “Danny’s in Mexico remember?.” You press a kiss to her forehead, “But Grace and Joe are here. You remember them?” 

Ellie seems to think about that for a second and then nods, “Danny home.”

“Yeah, bub,” you tell her, picking her up and settling her on your hip, “they’re Daniel’s mum and dad.” 

When you get downstairs you find Grace in the kitchen, loading the dishwasher. Her smile grows wide when she sees Ellie, “Hello pretty girl.”

You put Ellie down in her high chair so you can warm up her bottle of milk and when Grace asks you what else she can do you want to tell her it’s fine, that you’ll manage, but one stern look from her makes you swallow your words and give her your to-do list instead.

Grace busies herself with the laundry and Ellie insists on helping her and so you find yourself in the living room, tidying up and cleaning the floors and windows. It takes a little under two hours but then the living room is clean again, all the laundry is folded and put away, a new load in the machine, and the kitchen is looking like a kitchen again instead of a storage room. 

By the time you are finished, Granddad and Joe make it back as well and all of a sudden you find yourself on the front porch, enjoying a cup of coffee with Daniel’s parents, Granddad, and your daughter, who’s happy with her fruit pouch, sitting in Joe’s lap. 

After half an hour Granddad announces he’s going inside to take a quick nap, which Grace and Joe take as their cue to leave.

“Thank you so much,” you tell them before you give each of them a hug. “I really appreciate it.”

“It was our pleasure, sweetheart,” Grace tells you with a kind smile. She hands you a piece of paper then, “These are mine and Joe’s numbers. Promise me you’ll call if you need anything? We’re happy to help, whether it’s watching Ellie for a few hours, or-”

“Thank you,” you tell her, carefully folding the paper and putting it in your back pocket, knowing there’s no use in protesting. 

“We’re flying out to Abu Dhabi on the sixteenth for Danny’s last race,” she says, “but until then we’re here.”

***

Brazil is- It’s a race he’d rather forget. A collision with Magnussen on the first lap means Daniel is out of the race before it’s even started and he spends the remainder of the seventy laps watching the race from the garage. They leave for Abu Dhabi the next day and the knowledge that it’s his last ever race for McLaren makes him actually look forward to the last race of the season.

His parents come in on Wednesday and if he gets a little emotional when he hugs his mum, so what? It’s been a long time since he last saw her and it’s an emotional weekend as is. 

Daniel finishes ninth in the race and brings home a few points that in the end don’t make that much of a difference in the constructor’s championship but he feels good about. The team throws him a small farewell party after the race and he spends most of Monday a little hungover and vowing to himself he’s never going to drink again. 

By the time Tuesday comes around and it’s time for their weekly call, Daniel feels giddy with excitement, knowing that the next time he’ll talk to her won’t be over the phone.

She picks up on the first ring and smiles into the camera, Ellie sitting in her lap with an equally bright smile, “Hi.”

“Hi,” he feels his grin grow ever wider. 

“You’ve made it,” she says, hugging Ellie closer to her. “How are you feeling?”

“Good,” Daniel admits easily enough. “I’m glad it’s over. I uh-” He runs his hand over his face and shrugs, “Yeah.”

“And then tomorrow-”

“Yep,” he answers, knowing what it is she wanted to say. 

“I’m really happy for you, Daniel,” she says. He can see Ellie nod in agreement even though he doubts the little girl knows what’s going on. “When-” She looks at him with a shy smile, “When are you flying back?”

“Next Monday, but it’s a late flight so-”

“That’s ok,” she answers. “There’s no rush.”

Daniel disagrees. He can’t wait.

***

You angle your phone towards Granddad, “Look, it’s official. Daniel’s back at Red Bull.” 

Granddad nods, “Good.”

“He’s not driving though-” You frown as you read the caption of the Instagram post, “They’ve made him their third driver-”

“That’s good,” Granddad says with a mischievous smile. “He’s getting the best of both worlds, sweetheart. There’s no pressure anymore.” He chuckles then, “I can’t wait to hear what shit excuse McLaren comes up with next year, when their cars still aren’t performing and they figure out maybe it had nothing to do with Danny.”

“Granddad-”

“What?” Granddad feigns innocence with a cheeky smile, “Don’t tell me you’re not thinking the same thing.”

***

It’s close to ten when they finally make it back to his place, their flight delayed because of bad weather over Sri Lanka and a long wait at baggage claim despite their priority tags. Daniel’s happy to be back on his farm but he wishes they could have made it earlier so he could at least have gone over to see her.

“I’ll see you in two weeks, yeah?” Blake’s voice pulls him out of his thoughts. 

Daniel nods and leans over the centre console to give his best friend a hug. “Thanks, mate,” Daniel says, patting Blake’s back, “for everything.” There’s a weight behind Daniel’s words that he hopes Blake understands.

“Absolutely no worries.” Blake lets go of him and pats Daniel’s cheek, “I’m glad we’re back.” 

Daniel nods, understanding exactly what Blake means, “Yeah.” 

“You need me to help you with your bags?”

“Nah, I’m good, thanks” Daniel says as he gets out. He grabs his backpack from the backseat, already using the one Red Bull gave him, before he takes his two duffel bags out of the trunk. He taps the side of the car and waits until Blake has driven off before he makes his way over to the house, putting his bags down on the porch so he can take his keys out of his pocket. 

He drops his bags in the mudroom, deciding he’ll unpack them tomorrow because he desperately wants to take a shower first. The lights in the kitchen are on and he isn’t surprised to see there’s a note from his mum on the counter, letting him know she came by earlier today to sort through his mail and do a bit of cleaning. He’s already talked to her while he was waiting for his luggage but still he sends her a message to thank her and to tell her he’s made it back.

After a quick shower he finds himself back downstairs, wearing a comfy t-shirt and a pair of shorts hanging low on his hips. It’s still nice enough to sit outside and so Daniel grabs a beer from his fridge, sending a silent ‘thank you’ to his parents for making sure it’s fully stocked with food and drinks, and heads to his front porch. Or tries to anyway, because all of a sudden his intercom rings and with a confused frown he answers it, “Hello?” 

***

Even though you try not to speed down his driveway, you still make it to the house in under a minute, Daniel waiting for you on the back porch. It’s been sixty-three days since you last saw him and it both feels like it was only yesterday and a lifetime ago and your heart seems to be bursting at the seams while doing somersault after somersault.

And if you park your car rather haphazardly, well, so what?

Taking a deep breath for no other reason than to not feel like you’re about to lose it, you unbuckle your seatbelt and step outside and all of a sudden Daniel’s right there and cupping your face. He pushes you against the car gently but there’s a sense of urgency when he captures your mouth in a desperate kiss. You close your eyes and moan into the kiss as your hands grab onto the fabric of his t-shirt, needing something to hold onto.

His teeth graze over your lower lip and when you open your mouth he licks inside without hesitating and fuck, that feels good. 

Your hands have found their way into his hair, pulling him closer to you so you can deepen the kiss, and you hook one of your legs behind his, needing more of him. 

Daniel pulls back then, panting, and lets his forehead rests against yours, “Fuck, I’ve missed you.” 

You wrap your hands around his neck and pull him close, breathing him in, “I’ve missed you too.” 

“How did you-”

“Your mum called me after you texted her earlier.” You let go of him and cup his face, your thumbs caressing his cheeks and feeling yourself getting a little lost in those big brown eyes, that seem to be just a little watery, “I really wanted to see you.” 

He lets out a shaky breath, “How long can you stay?”

“We’ve got all night,” you whisper back and give him another kiss. “Ellie’s with Granddad.” 

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” you nod, going in for another kiss because now that he's back you're not sure you ever want to let him go.  

“How’s Oscar doing? Back to his-”

“Daniel,” you groan, dropping your head against his shoulder. “We are so not talking about Granddad right now.”

Daniel laughs, “Noted.” 

“Good.” You look up at him and roll the corner of your bottom lip between your teeth, “‘Cause I’m gonna need you to kiss me again.” 

“Oh, don’t you worry,” Daniel says in between kisses. “I’m planning on doing a whole lot more than that.” 

***

They make it to his bedroom eventually, both of them a little out of breath and a lot turned on. Daniel's never not touching her, as if he wants physical proof that she is really here, as if she might disappear when he lets go of her.

"Daniel-" she breathes, tilting her head back to give him better access to where he is sucking in the pulse point in her neck. 

He lets his teeth graze over her skin before he swirls his tongue over the now sensitive spot, drawing another moan from her. There's entirely too many layers of clothes between them, he decides, and so he lets his fingers dance from her hips to her shoulders, hooking them under the straps of her dress. Daniel kisses his way back to her mouth, nipping at her bottom lip, and pushes the straps down her arms. 

She shivers and he's worried he's overstepped but then she pulls back a little and looks up at him with a cheeky smile as she tugs on her dress to let it fall to her feet until she stands there in nothing but her bra and panties.

Daniel feels his mouth go dry because she looks absolutely gorgeous, all soft curves and glowing skin and he has to tell her, has to let her know and so he licks his lips and swallows hard, "Fuck, you're beautiful."

She lowers her eyes and he sees the minute shake of her head, like she doesn't believe him.

Fine, he thinks. I'll prove it to you then. Daniel takes a step closer and puts two fingers underneath her chin to make her look up at him. He sees her biting her lip and dips his head, kissing the corner of her mouth and smiling into the kiss when he feels the tension drain from her body. He cups her face and gently walks her backwards towards his bed, making her sit down on the edge before he pulls back and locks eyes with her, "Absolutely gorgeous."

He grabs the back of his shirt and pulls it up and over his head, not caring to see where it lands. She catches on quickly and brings her knees to her chest so she can scoot backwards, watching him as he climbs onto the bed with her. 

She leans back on her elbows and he puts his knees on either side of her hips so he can lean forward and capture her mouth for another kiss. When she lies down he follows her willingly, deepening the kiss by licking into her mouth before he sucks on her tongue so he can taste her. 

When he pulls back she whimpers but then he kisses his way down to the swell of her breasts and the whimper turns into a moan when he pushes the fabric of her bra aside and swirls his tongue around the sensitive bud. It makes her arch her back and he can feel himself grow hard when she rakes her nails over his back. Daniel cups her other breast with his hand, his thumb rubbing her hard nipple over the fabric, and marvels at the way her breathing picks up. 

“Dan-” She tugs on his hair gently, leading him back to her mouth for another kiss and he can feel her smile against his lips when she says, “I need-”

“Tell me what you need, babe,” he whispers, mouth close to her ear now. “Tell me exactly what you need and I’ll give it to you. Everything.” 

“I need more,” she tells him without hesitating. “I need you inside of me. I want to feel you.”

And fuck if that isn’t the hottest thing anyone has every said to him. Daniel lets go of her and slides down the bed, hooking his fingers behind the elastic of her panties so he can take them down with him, while she reaches behind her and unclasps her bra, letting it fall to the floor without looking. When he stands at the edge of the bed so he can take his shorts off, he can’t stop looking at her, finds himself mesmerised by her body - the softness of her stomach, her plump breasts and-

Daniel makes quick work of undressing and then he’s back on the bed, kneeling in between her now spread legs, letting his fingers roam over her legs before he leans down and presses a kiss to the inside of her thigh, muttering a quiet, “Fuckin’ gorgeous,” against her skin. He slowly, slowly makes his way to her sex, leaving a trail of kisses in his wake before he lets his thumb run through her folds, amazed by how wet she already is. 

“Dan-" 

She doesn't say anything else but he knows exactly what it is she wants from him and so he dips his head and lets his tongue follow the earlier path of his thumb before he swirls it around her clit. Her hands are in his hair again, keeping him there where she needs him most, and he is more than happy to oblige because he can feel himself already starting to become addicted to her taste.

***

"That's it," you whisper when Daniel bends the two fingers he has inside of you just right. "Don't stop. Don't-"

Daniel doubles his efforts, nose against your clit as his mouth joins his fingers, his beard burning the skin of your thighs in the most exhilarating way. 

"Dan," you warn him, your breathing becoming more and more erratic and your body tensing up, preparing for what is to come. "I'm gonna- Shit. Right there, baby. Don't stop. Please. Please, please, please."

He does as he's told and continues his attack on your clit while his fingers pump in and out of you and it's too much, it's-

Your orgasm washes over you, offering the sweet release you've been craving for so long. Daniel slows his movements but doesn't stop, helping you down from you high at a leisurely pace, as if you've got all the time in the world. You guess maybe you do.

When you finally stop shaking and your breathing is back to normal, Daniel pushes himself off and up so he is face to face with you. There's a soft smile playing on his lips but then he dips his head and kisses you, letting you taste yourself and it's almost enough to make you come again. Bucking your hips you feel his erection press against your core and it makes you pull back from the kiss so you can repeat your earlier request, “I need you inside of me, baby.”

Daniel’s pupils blow even wider, a darkness to his eyes that you haven’t seen before but that turns you on even more. He rolls off of you, pulling you with him, and watches through hooded lids as you kneel on top of him, your fingers skimming the hem of his boxers. He closes his eyes when you brush your thumb over the outline of his cock, letting out a quiet, “Fuck.” 

You slide back a little and lean down, sliding one hand inside his boxers and taking him out. There’s a bead of precum on the tip and as you wrap your fingers around him you use your thumb to spread it out, before you lean down and take him into your mouth. He’s big, too big to take all of him at once, and so you use both your mouth and hands to get him ready. 

“Fuck, you’re amazing,” he breathes from somewhere above you, one hand now cupping your face as you double your efforts and try to take him even deeper. He taps your cheek just as you can feel him start to swell inside your mouth and so you stop what you're doing and look up at him. Daniel swallows hard, “I’m gonna need you to stop if you want me to-”

“I want you to,” you tell him as you pump him one last time and then look at him expectantly. 

Daniel reaches over and opens his nightstand drawer, finding what he’s looking for not much later. Getting the condom on somehow turns into a two-person job and makes you both laugh, which seems to relieve some of the built-up pressure. Once the condom is on, Daniel flips you over again and leans down for a kiss.

You can feel the tip of his cock nudge your entrance and so you reach down and gently guide him inside of you, gasping for breath when he starts to fill you.

“You feel so good,” Daniel whispers against the corner of your mouth just as he bottoms out. “So tight.”

“It’s ok,” you tell him, clenching your walls around him. “You can move.”

He does. At first he only pulls back a little before he pushes down again but the slicker you become the more he pulls out, until he’s pumping in and out of you in a rhythm that you know will get you there sooner rather than later. From the way Daniel’s breathing picks up you’re sure he’s not far behind either. You can feel your second orgasm starting to build and so you reach down for your clit just as Daniel puts his mouth close to your ear, “You’re taking me so well.” 

His words go straight to your sex and you can feel your body starting to tense up once again, “Fuck, I’m gonna-”

“I’m right there with you, babe.” 

“Fuck.” You arch your back and hook one leg over his waist, wanting to feel all of him, and somehow it makes the angle just right and he starts hitting the spot with each thrust and- “Don’t stop. Please. Don’t-”

Daniel picks up his pace even more and before you know it you’re panting, your hands cupping his face so you can look at him. “That’s it,” he says. “Take me in, babe.” 

“Dan, I-” you try but then he slams into you harder and harder and you can feel yourself being tipped over the edge, your orgasm washing over you in full force and so all you can do is just enjoy the ride.

“Fuckin’ gorgeous,” Daniel says, watching you as he keeps chasing his own high that follows not much later when he comes with a loud groan. 

***

The sunlight seeping through his curtains wakes him up somewhere around ten and he’s a little confused when he hears quiet snores coming from the other side of the bed but then the memories from last night come rushing back and Daniel feels something tugging on his heart. He rolls over and can’t help but smile when he finds her tangled up in his sheets and so he presses a soft kiss between her shoulder blades.

She stirs, stretching her legs before she lets out a quiet moan, “Too early.”

Daniel chuckles, wrapping one arm around her waist and dragging her over to his side of the bed, “Good morning.”

“Mornin’” she whispers as she turns around in his arms so she can face him. 

She looks absolutely beautiful and Daniel feels like the luckiest man alive when he presses a kiss to her forehead, “How you goin’, sleepyhead?”

She nuzzles into him, her warm breath hitting his chest as her fingers dance over his stomach, “I’m really glad you’re back, Dan.” 

He smiles against her hair, “Me too.”

“Last night was-”

“Yeah,” he agrees quickly. “It was.” He hugs her closer, “We should do that again some time.” 

He feels her laugh and she pinches his side then, “We should.”

***

“Do you think- Will she-” Daniel clears his throat and rubs his hands on jeans, “Do you think she’ll still recognize me?”

You put a hand on his knee to stop his nervous habit and smile up at him, “Just wait and see.” 

When you pull up to the house not much later, Homer lets out an excited bark and rushes towards the car to greet you and whoever it is you’ve brought along. When he realises it’s Daniel, Homer wags his tail enthusiastically. 

“See?” You try, scratching Homer’s ears, “Even the dog remembers you, Ricciardo.” 

“Uhu,” Daniel nods, patting Homer’s head absentmindedly. “That’s great.”

The way he’s so nervous is absolutely endearing and so you don’t hesitate and take his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze to let him know it’s ok. You nod towards the house, “Come on.” 

Ellie’s inside, having a tea party with Granddad and Mr Koala, but the minute she spots Daniel her face lights up and she claps her hands, “Danny!”

You have to bite your lip to keep the tears at bay and next to you Daniel clears his throat and when you risk a quick glance at him you can see his eyes are a little glossed over as well. 

He lets go of your hand and squats down, holding out his arms. Ellie all but launches herself at him and Daniel hugs her close, “Hello Miss Ellie.”

“Danny,” Ellie says again, patting his cheeks with her hands.

“I’ve missed you, kiddo.” 

You rub Daniel’s back and when he looks at you from over his shoulder you give him a warm smile.

Daniel stands up then, Ellie still in his arms, and walks over to greet Oscar with half a hug before he sits down on the couch, Ellie snuggling up to him in his lap. She’s babbling, trying to tell him about all the things he’s missed and Daniel listens intently, asking all the right questions with a wide grin.

“I has day tomorrow,” Ellie says then. “Danny come with?”

“I-” Daniel shakes his head and looks up at you for help.

“It’s her birthday on Saturday,” you explain as you run your hand through your daughter’s hair, “but the concept of the days of the week is still a little confusing so she’s been saying it’s tomorrow for the past week or so.” You throw him a wink then, “I think she just invited you to her party.” 

Daniel chuckles and pinches Ellie’s cheek, “Of course I’m coming with, sweetheart.”

“I be three,” Ellie explains, holding up five fingers proudly. Her little eyebrows knit together then, as if she’s trying to figure something out. You guess she did when she grins at Daniel, “Like you.” 

“Like my race number, yeah,” Daniel nods, beaming with pride. 

 ***

Daniel’s all over the place the rest of the week, catching up with his parents, his sister and her kids, some old friends he hasn’t seen since the summer break, and he hates that he’s not on the farm as much as he’d like even though she’s assured him things are much more manageable now that Oscar’s finally caved and hired a farmhand who comes to help out four days a week. 

On Saturday though, there’s only one thing marked on his calendar and so he finds himself driving over to his neighbours after lunch, opting to get there a little early so he can help out with any preparations that still need to be done before the party starts. 

He can’t help but smile when he pulls up to the house and sees the front porch is decorated with balloons and banners, and has to stifle a laugh when he sees Homer’s wearing a pink bow tie instead of his normal collar. Daniel pats the dog in his head when he steps onto the porch, “Looking sharp, Homer.” 

Knocking three times, like he always does, before he lets himself in and finds her and Ellie in the kitchen, both of them wearing colourful summer dresses and looking absolutely beautiful. Daniel greets her first, with a quick kiss that might seem pretty chaste but still gives him the butterflies and he knows he’ll never grow tired of, before he presses a kiss to the top of Ellie’s head, “Hi sweetheart.” Ellie looks up at him with a goofy grin and holds out her arms without hesitation. Daniel picks her up and peppers her face with kisses, “Happy birthday, Miss Ellie.”

When he sits her down in her high chair again he hands her the gift he so carefully wrapped this morning, this time using the pink and purple wrapping paper he picked up at Woolies yesterday, “Here you go.”

Ellie starts tearing into the paper, letting out an excited giggle when she sees what’s inside.

Daniel looks at her with an apologetic smile, “I didn’t know what to get her but Michelle told me Isabella loved this when she was Ellie’s age so-”

“It’s perfect,” she says, her hand on his arm. “She’s really into colouring right now so this will keep her busy for some time to come.”

“Momma! Look!” Ellie holds up the box of crayons and the colouring book Daniel got her.

“That’s a fun gift, huh?” She squats down next to Ellie and nods towards Daniel, “Did you say thank you, yet?”

Ellie looks up at him with a bright smile, “Thank!”

“You are very welcome, sweetheart,” Daniel grins back. He looks at her then, “If there’s anything I can do to help-”

“Thank you but everything’s set,” she says as she stands up. He catches her looking at the clock on the wall, “I want to show you something.”

“Ok,” he draws out, not sure where this is going. 

She picks Ellie up and nods towards the back door, “Come on.” 

Daniel follows her outside and watches as she puts Ellie down, taking the little girl’s hand in hers. Ellie looks up at him then and holds out her hand and so Daniel takes it, trying to make his brain actively remember this exact moment because it is definitely one of the happier ones of his life. 

“Your parents and sister should be here around three,” she says as she leads the way to where, he’s not sure. “Blake texted me right before you got here, to let me know he and Michael are running a little late but-” she shrugs and smiles, “I guess what I’m trying to say is we still have some time before everyone gets here.” 

It’s then the field they went to a few months ago, when he first visited the farm, comes into view and Daniel lets out a quiet, “Oh wow.” There is a sea of red flowers in front of him, thousands and thousands of poppies swaying gently in the soft summer breeze, the rolling hills in the distance offering a perfect backdrop.  

Ellie tugs on their hands, urging them forward until they reach the fence and she lets out a content sigh, “Pretty.” 

“Just like you, bub,” she says, letting go of her daughter’s hand so she can squat down next to her. She picks a poppy and hands it to Ellie, “Here you go. A pretty flower for a pretty girl.” When she stands up she looks at Daniel, “What do you think?”

“It’s beautiful,” Daniel admits easily enough, a tiny voice in the back of his head telling him what he already knows. That he’s not just talking about the flowers. 

She takes a step closer to him and puts her arm around his waist, letting her head rest against his shoulder, “Told you so.” 

Daniel slings his arm around her shoulders and pulls her close, pressing a kiss to her temple. There’s something- It’s weird, he realises. He’s only known her for a little over two months, and he was gone for most of that, but it feels like he doesn’t have to pretend to be someone he’s not. Not anymore. He doesn’t have to be Daniel Ricciardo, Danny Ric, DR, or the Honey Badger. He doesn’t have to be a Formula One driver, an eight-time race winner, the most beloved driver on the grid, and the fan favourite. He doesn’t have to be Red Bull’s wild card, Renault’s saviour, or, most recently, McLaren’s scapegoat. 

After thirty-three years, it feels like this is exactly where he was meant to be. It feels like everything that has happened, everything that he’s been through, has led up to this. To this exact moment. 

Because when he is here, when he’s with her, and with Ellie, he is Daniel. It feels- Words can’t describe it but in the end it feels like-

It feels like home. 

[j-onedrabbles]

𝒌𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒂'𝒔 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒕𝒔

this list contains writing prompts for fluff, nsfw, and angst. i welcome anyone else who wants to use it to please do!

fluff

"your hair is so soft.."

"it's too cold! come back."

"No. i'm not letting you go. It's too early to get out of bed."

"I'm not going to stop poking you till you give me some attention."

"I like the way your hand fits in mine."

"You can call me whenever you want... even if you don't have a reason too."

"You look really cute in that sweater."

"No, like... it's just, i can't believe you're actually wearing my clothes."

"I've been trying to get ready for like an hour and a half, because i know you're going to look so good and i need to try and match up."

"Your lips are really warm."

"Ssh. Stop fussing. I'm just braiding your hair."

"You are my new pillow."

"Don't get up– i'll do it."

"Stargazing was a good idea."

"I'll always be here for you."

"I'll be here to protect you."

"Don't be silly. I want to stay up with you."

"Your bed head is really cute."

"let's go home. You're freezing and I don't want you catching a cold."

"I'm not going to get sick, you baby. Just let me hold you."

"I'm not moving, your lap is comfortable."

"I know your mad at me, but will a kiss change your mind?"

"God, I miss you so much."

"Hey, let me in. I'm outside with your favorite pizza."

"I'm only doing it because you're cute."

"I'm tired, just cuddle me."

"Sorry for waking you, baby. Go back to sleep."

"Time for bed, sleepy head. Come on, I've got you."

angst

"Please look at me."

"I'm just disappointed."

"You... you never had a problem with it before."

"You're making me think that what they told me about you was right."

"Does it ever stop hurting?" "No, you just make room for it."

"I'm trying, all the time, but it's just too hard."

"I let you down."

"I tried to move on, but nobody is you."

"Do i look like I moved on?"

"I feel like everyone just forgot I exist."

"You're really drunk right now. I don't think you're gonna remember any of this." "No. I'm not drunk at all. You're just blurry"

"Did it ever occur to you that you're hurting me too."

"I just want to forget you."

"How much do you miss them?" "More than I should."

"I'd rather stay in my own head so I don't have to live in the world you ruined."

"It wasn't your fault."

"Don't leave."

"Don't do this to yourself."

"Stop pushing everyone away."

"I need help."

"I'm so, so sorry."

"I thought that if I acted like it didn't matter, the it wouldn't."

"I broke my rules for you."

"Don't make promises you can't keep."

"Damn it, are you drunk?"

"I just need time to myself."

"Let me help."

"You haven't been yourself lately."

nsfw

"I know a workout you might enjoy."

"I want it hard."

"I just want to feel something."

"I swear. I'm gonna fuck the next person that comes through that door."

"I'm either joining or watching, you pick."

"I love it when you act all controlling like that knowing damn well I can leave you shaking under me."

"You're mine."

"I'll let you do anything if you just touch me right now."

"Stay quiet."

"If you can't sleep... how about we have sex?"

"Let me show you why you should stay in bed."

"If you want to keep sitting on my lap, you have to stop wiggling."

"We're really going to fuck here? What if someone sees us?"

"Be a good girl/boy for mommy/daddy."

"If I have to stop what I'm doing then you're not gonna be able to walk for the next week."

"There's people here!" "I know"

"You're still horny? Didn't I fuck you hard enough last night?"

"Spank me. It's the only way I'll learn."

"I'd hold onto something if I were you."

"You can get louder, can't you?"

"I'm really in the mood to tease you today."

"Bite me." "If you insist."

"Just let me finish this/this level and I swear I'll go down on you till you come at least three times."

"I'm going to put some clothes on before you say anything else."

"Were you masturbating?" "U-uh no... I was just.." "Want some help?"

"I won't apologize for marking you up. Everyone should know you're taken."

"You look so good with my hand around your neck."

"If you complain that it's hot one more time, I'm going to give you a reason to sweat."

[oh-koenig-my-koenig]

eepy könig - ssh don't wake him!

a little doodle i did of the big guy (full nsfw version on bsky or twt)

blog update under the cut

hey peeps, i'm sry it's going so slow at the moment :c

i'm having a hard time creating and writing right now, i have to limit the time i spend using my right hand or the pain gets worse again (still recovering from the tendonitis), and it's also starting to weigh on my mental (i have so many projects, scenes and chapters i want to work on, but just can't...) ((plus uni starting again next week and lots of stuff going on irl)) (((no time for a much needed break)))

take the little doodle as an apology and a thank you for your continued support <3

[emlee81]

Javier Pena-Don't Go part 1

***

You've been working with Javi for several weeks now and you two become close.

Then there's a chance you'll have to leave Colombia and return home. Javier does everything I his power to stop that from happening.

Some swearing and innuendo and violence.

..............

"I won't let it happen!" Javi is adamant.

"Hey, Javi. Ssh. It's okay."

"No, it's not okay! Not until you can stay here with me." Javier kisses you tenderly and you can see the moisture beginning to form in his dark eyes.

You gently wrap your arms around him as Javi buries his face against your neck. You just hold him. You, of all people, know that Javier Pena loves to come off as a complete asshole.

Like he doesn't give a shit about anything or anyone. That couldn't be farther from the truth. Shit got to him. It tore at his mind and soul. How he would awaken many times during the night, screaming out.

Then you would do just as you're doing now. Hold him until he could fall back asleep again, your limbs tangled together and pressed up against each other's bodies.

Javi pulls away, his blood shot eyes moist. You gently kiss his forehead. Then he lips. Javier sighs heavily.

"There has to be something I can do to make them change their mind. I'll do whatever I have to, chica."

Javi pulls you close to him and you just hold each other.

..............

"What the hell, Pena?" His boss was not impressed. Asshole, Javi fumes.

"She's a valuable member of my team. I need her to stay. Or else find yourself another leader!"

"Fine! Two more months. That's it, Pena! Now get the hell outta my office before I change my damn mind!"

Javi turns and hurries out. He's glad his back is to that asshole. He has a grin as wide as the sun.

...........

"Mi amor!" Javi catches you up in his arms and spins you around. You laugh. It's nice to see Javi in such a fantastic mood.

He sets you down, kissing you hungrily. You kiss him back. Javier's hands clutch the bottom of your shirt tightly. You clutch his leather jacket tightly.

"God, I want to devour you right here and now." Javi looks so damn intense, it's making you squirmy. You kiss his mustache and Javi shifts.

"Not now," you gasp. "Later." Javier reluctantly releases you and groans in frustration as he scrubs a hand over his face.

"I don't know if I can wait that long." You laugh and hug him.

"We'll just have to." Javi grins ruefully.

"Unfortunately."

..............

Once you and Javi leave the office, you practically rush back to his place. Javi doesn't waste any time and it feels so damn amazing!

You cuddle with Javi, loving the feel of his solid body lying next to yours. You touch his mustache as much as possible. He chuckles softly and kisses your fingers.

Javi slings his arm over you as you're pressed up against his. You gaze at him. He suddenly squirms and you frown.

"What?"

"He said, two months, tops. I don't want that. I need you here with me permanently." You stare at him.

"What aren't you saying?" Javi suddenly grasps one of your hands in his.

"Marry me, Y/N. Please." You pull your hand away and sit up.

"Javi, we've only known each other for a few months. You don't know me well enough to ask that of me."

"Damnit!" Javi somehow manages to look both pissed and hurt at the same time. You gently kiss him.

"If that's what you really want. We need to think things over." Javier sighs and nods.

"Then we will." He gazes at you. "Because, I know I can't speak for you. But I can't live without you."

To be continued.....

[cartoonfanaticmonsterrobotalien]

Solar Opposites: Unleashed Episode #9: “Growing Pains”

Shlorp 13 Years Ago…

At night time, Korvo was fast asleep in his bed.

Korvo: sleep moaning

Suddenly, Korvo hears a sound of a baby crying as he got up and heads over to a sproutling sleeping chamber.

Korvo: Hey, Yumyulack. You doing good?

He sees baby Yumyulack wailing as Korvo picks him up and heads over to his bed as he starts to comfort baby Yumyulack and sooth him.

Korvo: Ssh. Ssh. It’s alright my little sprout.

Baby Yumyulack kept crying which made Korvo get an idea as he lies down while holding baby Yumyulack and putting him down his right side of the bed as he continues to soothe his infant son.

Korvo: chuckles as he rubs baby Yumyulack’s stomach There we go…

Baby Yumyulack starts cooing.

Korvo: Aaw… you such an easy sproutling. tickles Baby Yumyulack with his finger tips on baby Yumyulack’s stomach while making cute noises

Korvo cries with happiness. Baby Yumyulack starts laughing as he coos and falls back to sleep while sucking his thumb. Korvo chuckles.

Korvo: You are such an easy sproutling. One day, I think you’re gonna grow up and become a brave Shlorpian just like your daddy… kiss baby Yumyulack on the forehead Sweet dreams my little sprout…

Korvo heads back to sleep as he hold baby Yumyulack close to him carefully. Baby Yumyulack feels relax by the sound of Korvo’s heartbeat as he coos. Suddenly, just when Korvo was about to sleep, He then finds out baby Yumyulack is sleeping close to his heartbeat as he smiles and hugs his baby close softly.

Korvo: You are on easy sproutling… yawns Hope you always be like this…

13 years later…

At school, the mean kids starts throwing stuff at Human Yumyulack, Human Jesse and Sonya as they groan and scream

Human Jesse: Aaah! Hey! Stop that! Cut it out!

Stacy F: No one want you here, losers!

Human Yumyulack: Hey! Knock it off! Leave me and my sisters alone!

Sonya: squeals You guys cut it out! Stop it!

Suddenly Principal Cooke shows up.

Stacy H: Make us Opposites!

Principal Cooke: Hey! You kids knock it off! Leave these three alone!

Stacy K: Ugh, why do you have to be such a buzzkill?

Principal Cooke: Get or I am suspending you guys!

The Stacies growl.

Stacy K: This isn’t over.

As the mean kids leave, Jayden then comes back and punches Yumyulack in the face that gives him a black eye as he scream and Mark now wearing an electronic bracelet witness this.

Mark: HEY! Leave him alone!

Mark starts growling as his skin starts turning pale white and starts growing bigger and muscular but luckily Human Yumyulack hugs him and calms him down with a cooldown hug,

Human Yumyulack: I’m fine.

Mark calms down as his skin turns back to normal and he breathes in and out and the two boyfriends kiss.

Human Jesse: Aw…

Principal Cooke: Okay. I think it’s best if I send the three of you and suspend you for two weeks until the class announcement for the block party presentation. I am not saying you’re in trouble. But, you guys are getting bullied too much and I’m sure you’ll be fine.

Sonya: Thanks.

The kids arrive home early which brought a concern to Korvo, who writhing down a checklist on a clipboard while Terry was playing with Pupa. Yumyulack and Jesse then turns back into their normal Shlorpian selves.

Jesse: Hey, Korvo.

Korvo: Hey kids. Why are you home early? What happened?

Sonya: The Stacies and Headphone guys picked on us!

Korvo gasps.

Korvo: What?! They did?! How could they treat you like this? These kids are very unruly!

Sonya: Yeah. They were very mean.

Korvo growls.

Jesse: I just hope their bullying doesn’t get in the way of your block party.

Korvo: I sure hope so. then sees Yumyulack Hmm…

Yumyulack is crying.

Korvo: Hey Yumyulack. You feeling okay and- gasp upon seeing Yumyulack’s black eye

Yumyulack: I-I’m fine. It’s just a black eye.

Korvo: No! It’s not! Did one of the Heapdhone kids did to you?

Yumyulack gulps.

Korvo: Yumyulack, please! I can’t help if you-

Yumyulack snaps.

Yumyulack: You know what?! Forget it! I’ll never fit in! JUST LEAVE ME THE FUCK ALONE! runs up to his room in tears which made Korvo even more concern

Korvo sighs sadly.

Phoebe MacCarthy: Hey. What’s going on?

Korvo: Yumyulack is upset

Phoebe MacCarthy: Damn it! I bet this kids again! Those son of- grunts as she kicks a table; sighs He is feeling on edge this week.

Korvo puts a hand on Phoebe’s shoulder.

Korvo: I know. I wish there was something I could there for him. he then sees the sign up for help for the block party that gave him an idea And I think I might have just the thing…

Later…

Yumyulack sniffles, then Korvo comes with a smile on his face as he shows him a paperwork.

Yumyulack: What’s this?

Korvo: I notice you’ve been feeling out of sorts. So, I decided to can join me into helping with the block party

Yumyulack smiles

Yumyulack: Wow. Thanks.

Yumyulack hugs Korvo.

Yumyulack: giggles I won’t let you down sir! runs off

Korvo smiles.

Later at Starlight, Human Korvo is talking with Jerrica.

Jerrica: Why yes of course. I’m sure your son Baxter would be perfect for this job

Human Korvo: Thank you my son really needs it. He’s been really stressed lately.

Then, the Misfits Pizzow, Ronnie and Storm arrived

Jerrica: I see. Any problems at school?

Human Korvo: Oh great. The Misfits are here!

Pizzow: Hey Jerrica! How is the hang out?

Jerrica: Fine. Why are you here Storm?

Pizzow: Nothing but we just want you to know you will be hosting our own block party later.

Human Korvo: What?!

Jerrica: Oh for what?! Just to cause more trouble!

Storm: Oh actually. Is it on the same night as Earth-4’s block party?

Jerrica: What?! Oh, that is so messed up Storm

Human Korvo: Well, uh-

Human Yumyulack: Uh…

Pizzow: Well, don’t bother us! We just hope this stupid block party never happens! kicks the fliers out of Jerrica and Human Korvo’s hands as as they fly all over the place Have fun!

The Misfits laugh mockingly while Jerrica growls

Jerrica: Oh. I like to them try

Human Korvo: Now now Jerrica. I think two block parties might be a great thing.

Jerrica: What, but Korey-

Human Korvo: Just ignore them. I’m sure you, your sisters and Rio came make this best block party. But, I want to do it how I envision it as well as everyone else’s.

Jerrica: sighs in dismay Okay…

Later, when Human Korvo and Human Yumyulack come home…

Human Korvo: Relax. I’m sure three mean girls won’t get in the way of the party. Just relax.

Human Yumyulack: I sure hope so.

Then, they see Jesse and Sonya twirling their ribbon batons around they smile while wearing black shirts that says “The Amazing Opposites Siblings”.

Jesse: Hey Yummybear! Come on, we have to practice!

Yumyulack and Korvo then turn back into their normal Shlorpian selves.

Yumyulack: Oh right!

But then, Yumyulack realizes something.

Yumyulack: Yeah. I’m sorry girls, but I gotta get started on doing this stuff.

Sonya: What?

Jesse: But, we’ve been practicing for a three weeks. The whole school is counting on us

Yumyulack sighs.

Yumyulack: I know but… looks at Korvo leaving This is my chance to impress Korvo. He really worked hard on getting the prompts. And I want his block party to be how and the other people envision it.

Sonya and Jesse looks down.

Jesse and Sonya: Okay…

Yumyulack: Thank you. Now if you excuse me, I got some stuff to do

As Yumyulack leaves, Sonya sighs.

Sonya: I hope this doesn’t get in the way of her act next week. We can’t do it without Yumyulack

Later…

A janitor was getting some supplies. But, he heard a glass shatter.

Janitor: Hello, is anyone there?

The janitor look around, only a saliva to fall on him as he gasp.

Janitor: What the fuck?

He then heard a sound of bat as he looks up and sees a huge bat monster man. The janitor screams.

Later…

Human Yumyulack is busy writing down the class while Jerrica is discussing about the Misfits with her sisters Ash, Kim and Shana and Rio.

Kim: What?! There party is on the same night as our party!

Jerrica: I know. I don’t believe it either.

Shana: Oh! We can’t let these girls ruin everything!

Jerrica: Don’t worry. We are not gonna let them win.

Ash: What do you mean?

Jerrica: I have a plan. Here’s what we should do.

As Jerrica discussed the plan, Human Yumyulack began to feel unsure about this. Later, back with Human Korvo, he grows disturbed upon seeing bat prints on a door.

Human Korvo: What the hell?

Human Korvo heads in the closet where he gets a flashlight and checks around for clues. He then stepped on something made of glass as he looks down and gasp. It was a vile.

Human Korvo: The fuck?

Human Korvo examines the vile.

Human Korvo: reads the label with a bat on it Bats?

Human Korvo then turns around gasp upon seeing the janitor’s clothes now torn apart into pieces and on the floor. He then finds out there is no blood on it and grows suspicious about this.

Human Korvo: How is this…?

Human Janiz then comes in

Human Janiz: Korvo, what’s going on?

Human Janiz then gasp upon seeing the turn up clothes and screams after she sees messy bat prints all over the closet.

Human Korvo: Oh no. This is what I was afraid of. I think there might be Bat People among us.

Human Janiz: HOLY SHIT!

The scene then cuts to the police investigating around the area while putting cautionary tapes all over the closet.

Police Officer: Yeesh. This epidemic has gotten more crazier. It feels like we’re cursed, man. Did you find anything when you found this scene?

Human Korvo: I’m afraid only torn up clothes and an ID. It belong to a janitor that works here. But, no blood and remains of him

Police Officer: Thank you for calling us. Well let you know if we had found anymore clues.

As the police leave, Human Korvo sighs in frustration.

Human Korvo: God damn it! sighs If there is gonna be any more attacks, I’m afraid we might cancel the block party if this keeps happening.

Human Janiz: I’m afraid you’re right.

Human Korvo: And no is gonna stop it, eyes starts glowing aquamarine Terry, Phoebe and I will…

Later…

Ash was making new paint on one of the prompts.

Ash: Looking good.

But then, the paint falls over as Ash groans. Human Yumyulack comes out getting supplies but then gasp in shock over the mess.

Human Yumyulack: What happened?

Jerrica: No Shana! We have to make sure it had enough feathers!

Shana: Well, this is all I got!

Jerrica: Well try harder! sees a prop Human Korvo made and takes it apart Well, we don’t need this!

Human Yumyulack: What?! Are you nuts?! My dad Korey made it. He worked on it so hard with his friends!

Jerrica: Look, why don’t we all just calm down.

Human Yumyulack: But, this out of control-

Jerrica: So are these Misfits! And we’re not gonna let perfect ol’ Korey get in the way. Now if you excuse me…

Suddenly they hear a roar.

Jerrica: What the fuck was that?

It turns out to be Super Shlorpian Korvo as he flies back home. Human Yumyulack gasps when he sees Super Shlorpian Korvo. Super Shlorpian Korvo heads inside of his home

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Terry! Phoebe! I need your help!

Terry then hears Super Shlorpian Korvo roaring.

Terry: Babe, that you?

Terry walks up and sees Super Shlorpian Korvo with Phoebe.

Phoebe MacCarthy: Damn. Why did you transform so quickly?

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Bat People are attacking Earth-4!

Terry: Oh shit!

Back with Sonya and Jesse.

Human Jesse: Aw man. Where is he?

Sonya then sees Human Yumyulack.

Sonya: There he is!

The two girls rush up to Human Yumyulack

Human Jesse: Yummybear! The board meeting is tomorrow! We need you!

Human Yumyulack: Look, I- groans in frustration I’m sorry. It’s hard to explain.

Human Jesse: What’s hard to-

Human Yumyulack snaps.

Human Yumyulack: Look, I’m sorry! I can’t talk to you girls right now?

Human Jesse: Come on Yummybear! We need you! We’re counting on you!

Sonya: Remember? Our special sibling spin?! Please be there tomorrow! We need our big brother.

Human Yumyulack looks down sadly.

Human Yumyulack: sighs Okay. I will. I promise.

Human Jesse and Sonya: Great! Sibling hu-

Human Yumyulack: Ugh! Maybe later! shoves the girls away as he walks off in frustration

Suddenly, the girls then began to feel concern about this as they walk back sadly.

Later…

At Starlight, the Misfits sneaks in the back room

Storm: Okay girls, let’s show goodie ol’ Korey and his partners a thing or two about mixing the lights

Pizzow: Fuck yeah.

Pizzow gets out her lab top and causes the lights to mix up and glow brighter and go crazy as Jerrica, her sisters and Rio starts freaking out and ends ups destroying the props while running around and falling by the lights

Misfits: laughing wickedly

Rio: What's going on?!

Pizzow: Have a nice block party!

The Misfits left as Human Yumyulack looks at them and then gasp upon seeing a destroyed prop piece.

Human Yumyulack: Oh my God…

Later…

Jerrica: Rio, why didn’t you check the lights?

Rio: Well, don’t blame me I was helping take apart a prop crossbow

Human Yumyulack groans in frustration.

Jerrica: Well, now we gotta start all over! Ugh! I will not let those girls win!

Human Yumyulack: Uh, Jerrica, I have a solution-

Jerrica: Not right now Baxter

Human Yumyulack: What?! Come on Jerrica, I don’t think this is a preparation for the block party anymore, it’s-

Jerrica: I said not now!

Human Yumyulack then groans in frustration and finally snaps as he throws his clipboard at Jerrica and Rio as they scream! Human Yumyulack flinches before growling.

Human Yumyulack: WELL SEE YOU TOMMOROW!

Human Yumyulack then slams the door violently as Jerrica, her sisters and Rio stood in shock. Meanwhile, Super Shlorpian Korvo is looking down on the city as he sighs. Then, Mundane Terry and aqrabuamelu Phoebe meets up with him.

Aqrabuamelu Phoebe: Hey. How are you doing?

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Good...

Mundane Terry: Well, no sign of the bat people. Man, how do they hide so easily?

Super Shlorpian Korvo: I don’t know. But, we’ll find out in the morning… we better head home…

Mundane Terry: Okay, baby. kisses Super Shlorpian Korvo on the lips

The three monsters then head back. But, unknown to them, a monster with a familiar bow on him is watching over them. Later at sunset, at the school…

School: chanting SPIN! SPIN! SPIN!

Human Janiz recieved a text while looking out from behind the curtain as she sighs.

Human Janiz: Aw man… Yumyulack…

Stacy G then kiss Human Jesse on the cheek.

Stacy G: You look great babe.

Human Jesse: blushes and giggles Thanks.

Then, Human Janiz runs back to the girls.

Sonya: Did you find him Auntie Janiz?

Human Janiz: No girls. I don’t know why… but I heard Yumyulack had a meltdown

Human Jesse and Sonya: What?!

Stacy G: So, he’s not coming?

Sonya: What do we do?!

Human Jesse looks down sadly.

Human Jesse: sighs sadly I know what we should do…

Human Jesse and Sonya sadly approach the class as they sadly make their way up to the microphone.

Sonya: Hi everyone… Our brother Baxter… stammering couldn’t be here today….

The crowd gasp.

Sonya: He had a stressful meltdown earlier at his job an-and we never done anything without our brother. And… we’re not starting now…

Human Jesse: You can’t have only two little pigs… you can’t have only two musketeers… so-so…. you know you can’t only have two siblings performing without their big brother… thank you…

The two girls sadly left while everyone began to grow concern about this. Human Janiz sees them sadly and looks at them.

Human Janiz: Come on girls, let’s take you back to your dads.

Stacy G looks at the girls sadly while feeling sorry for her girlfriend. Later, Stacy G was walking out until she sees Human Yumyulack moaning anxiously after his outburst and firmly goes up to him.

Human Yumyulack: Jesse? Sonya? Hey girls! I’m here!

Stacy G follows him as he looks everywhere for his sister.

Human Yumyulack: Girls?

Stacy G: They’re gone Yumyulack!

Human Yumyulack: Aw man…. what have I done… they’re never gonna wanna talk to me again!

Stacy G: You know what?! You become a jerk! You don’t care about anyone but yourself…

Human Yumyulack gets stunned in remorse.

Stacy G: Oh and by the way… I don’t think my girlfriend would want a brother who keeps ignoring her lately.

As Stacy G walks away, Human Yumyulack looks down remorsefully. Once Yumyulack got home and turn back into his Shlorpian form, he opens the door to his bedroom sadly.

Yumyulack: Sonya? Jesse?

Yumyulack walks up to Sonya in her bed.

Yumyulack: Sonya? Are you awake?

Sonya however ignored him sadly as tears fall down from her eyes. Then, Yumyulack walks up Jesse.

Yumyulack: Jesse? J?

Jesse does the same Sonya did, as she cries quietly. Yumyulack sadly walks out the room and shuts the door quietly. Korvo sees Yumyulack walking sadly as he grows concern about this. Korvo then follows Yumyulack and sees him going outside. Korvo opens the door but doesn’t see Yumyulack on the port.

Korvo: Yumyulack? Yumyulack?! sees Yumyulack on the roof crying Oh…

Korvo heads up on the roof and sits beside Yumyulack as he kept crying.

Yumyulack: Go away.

Korvo then brings Yumyulack close to him as Yumyulack began to feel comfortable.

Korvo: What happened? Were you having a hard time? What happened between you and your sisters?

Yumyulack then breaks down in tears.

Yumyulack: tearfully I rejected a sibling hug.

Korvo: What? Yumyulack, you love doing that. What happened?!

Yumyulack screams in anger.

Yumyulack: I’ve been ignoring them! I trying to work so hard! And now because of the Misfits, it’s turned into a battle of block parties! The props are now ruined!

Korvo: What?! Oh my God… did you get hurt?

Yumyulack sits down in tears

Yumyulack: tearfully Luckily no…

Korvo: Oh Yumyulack...

Korvo brings Yumyulack closer as Yumyulack breaks down crying into Korvo’s chest as he soothes him.

Korvo: I'm so sorry.

As Yumyulack kept crying, he can feel Korvo’s heartbeat as he began to feel relax. This made Korvo smile.

Korvo: You really love it when you hear my heartbeat. That was the first sound you heard when I first saw you after you sprouted during that storm.

Yumyulack blushes.

Yumyulack: I’m not adorable anymore

Korvo: I know, but you were very tiny for a sproutling. I really did love fussing over you whenever you need me. You even love it when I bring you close and nurture you

Yumyulack: Thanks, Korvo.

Korvo: Anytime, my little sprout…

Yumyulack: Is it okay if sleep with you and Terry tonight? I really have to make things right with my sisters tomorrow.

Korvo: Of course

Yumyulack and Korvo then came down from the roof and head inside. The next day, Montez was looking around for clues until he see a torn part.

Montez: What’s this?

He then gasp because it turns out to be part of an old Wallian clothe, which made him ran to Cherie and Nova.

Montez: Girls! Look at this!

Cherie and Nova gasp upon seeing the clothe because they haven’t seen it in awhile.

Nova: A Wallian cloth?

Cherie: Oh my God. That looks like the clothe the Bowinians used to wear.

Sherbet: Mom! What’s happening?!

Nova sighs.

Nova: Sherbet? We have something to tell you. And you are not gonna like it.

Later at the Starlight, Jerrica is stressing out.

Jerrica: What do you mean the lights are down?

Rio: Well don’t blame me you go asking for the lights.

Jerrica: Well maybe the try harder next time!

Ash: Well the props are out of control!

Shana: Yeah! Do something!

Jerrica: Oh will you knock it off? I was supposed to make us win! until you guys mess things up!

Kim: Jerrica, it sounds like never support me!

Jericca: Never support you…. groaning in anger; snapping UGH! THAT’S IT! EVERYBODY OUT!

But then, without thinking, in a fit of anger, Jerrica sling her coffee mug towards human Yumyulack, where it flew burning coffee all over him as he screams in pain.

Jerrica: Oh my god! I am so sorry! Let me-

Human Yumyulack, finally reaching his breaking point with Jerrica, her sisters and Rio, screams in fury that is hear throughout town. Human Korvo hears it and gasp as he hid and began to overhear the conversation

Human Korvo: Hmmm?

Kim: Um Baxter… are you okay…

Human Yumyulack starts yelling

Human Yumyulack: UGH! THAT’S IT! I HAVE HAD IT! I HAVE FUCKING HAD IT! to Jerrica YOU HAVE TURN INTO A HUGE PINK HAIR JERK WHO BARLEY PAY ANY ATTENTION TO ME! to Rio YOU ARE NOTHING OUT A PUNK AND SELF-CENTERED JERKFACE WHO NEED TO STOP LOSING HIS TEMPER OVER LIGHT PROBLEMS! to Kim YOU NEED TO STOP BEING BRATTY BECAUSE YOU KNOW YOUR MEAN BITCH-ASS SISTER ALWAYS SUPPORT YOU! to Ash and Shana AND YOU TWO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOURSELVES!

Human Korvo gasps.

Human Korvo: whispering Y-Yumyulack?

Kim: But Baxter, we-

Human Baxter: YOU RUINED EVERYTHING! UGH! I WORKED SO HARD ON THIS WITH YOU GUYS JUST FOR MY DAD KOREY’S HARD WORK! BUT INSTEAD, YOU TURN IT A RIDICULOUS BATTLE OF THE BLOCK PARTIES WITH THREE BRATS YOU ALWAYS HATE! YOU EVEN RUINED SOME OF THE STUFF KOREY WANTED THAT HE WORKED SO HARD ON TO PERFECT THIS PARTY! THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULTS!

Human Korvo starts crying.

Human Korvo: crying Oh… oh my God… I didn’t know… I… sniffs

Jerrica: But you don’t understand! We have to beat the Misfits-

Human Yumyulack angrily slams the desk so hard with his fist, it falls apart into pieces, surprisingly.

Rio: Holy shit! Did you just-

Mark walks by and gasp as he hears his boyfriend quietly.

Human Yumyulack: NO! WE HAVE TO MAKE THIS BLOCK PARTY KOREY WORKED SO HARD ON! AND NOW BECAUSE OF YOU GUYS, THE STUFF IS RUINED, I MESSED UP THINGS WITH MY SISTERS AND NOW THEY ARE REALLY MAD AT ME AND YOU GUYS BEEN TREATING ME LIKE SHIT!

Jerrica: Baxter…

Human Yumyulack: BECAUSE, THAT’S IT! THAT’S THE LAST STRAW! I QUIT!

Suddenly, Human Yumyulack’s eyes glow purple and his fingertips starts turning black. Human Korvo gasps.

Human Korvo: No no no no no! YUMYULACK!

Jerrica: Baxter, wait! We-

Human Yumyulack: FUCK YOU, YOU SELF-CENTERED BITCH-CUNTS!

Human Korvo: What is he doing?!

Once Human Yumyulack slammed the door at Jerrica and her friends’ faces, he angrily walks off when suddenly purple wings pop out of his backs, which caused Human Korvo to gasp as Mark follows Human Yumyulack.

Human Korvo: Mark, no!

As Human Yumyulack keeps walking, he feels a sharp pain and in his head as he turns back into his Shlorpian form and cries out in pain. Then, Yumyulack starts growing bigger and muscular while his whole skin turns black as he cries out.

Yumyulack: WHAT’S HAPPENING TO ME?!

Mark: Babe?! Babe! Are you alright- gasp

Yumyulack: clothes rip apart into pieces while he screams in pain MARK! GET AWAY! begins to cry RUN! BEFORE I ACCIDENTALLY HURT YOU! breaks down sobbing as he finishes growing bigger and muscular while horns pop out of his head

Mark: Holy shit!

As Yumyulack’s teeth becomes sharp and monstrous with monstrous fangs and his voice gets deeper, he has fully become a Super Shlorpian as he roars once Human Korvo arrived and recognized Yumyulack in distraught.

Human Korvo: Yumyulack?!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack, who lost his sanity, roars and swings a car as Mark gasp and hides behind Human Korvo, while controlling his mutant zombie form. Super Shlorpian Yumyulack roars as he lifts a car up.

Mark: Yumyulack! No!

Human Korvo: Yumyulack! No! It’s me Korvo! Your dad! Put the car down kiddo! We have to get you home before-

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack throws the car while Human Korvo and Mark dodges it. Suddenly, Super Shlorpian Yumyulack hears the screeching from the bat mutants and roars as he flies off.

Human Korvo: Oh for God’s sake!

Mark: Yumyulack! Yumyulack….

Human Korvo looks on and knows what he must do, while going papa wolf.

Human Korvo: Mark, stay here.

Mark: Wait, what are you-

Human Korvo turns back to his Shlorpian form and began to grow bigger and muscular while his wings and horns pop out and his skin turns black

Mark: Whoa! Dude!

Korvo: rips apart this robe as he finishes growing bigger and muscular while his voice deepens Ooooohhhh ffffuuuucccckkk yyyeeeeeeees!

Korvo moans in pleasure.

Mark: Holy shit! You were the monster that saved me-

Super Shlorpian Korvo roars as he fully completes his transformation. Super Shlorpian Korvo blushes and bites his lip

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Aaaah… stretches his back and flexes his right arm I feel much better and feeling horny right now!

Mark: Woah. You’re ripped!

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Why thank you and- hears Super Shlorpian Yumyulack’s roars

Mark: Babe…

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Stay here.

Mark: Huh? Okay, but be careful dude and good luck!

Super Shlorpian Korvo then roars as he flies off to save his son while going papa wolf.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: HANG ON YUMYULACK! DADDY’S COMING!

Later, Mark arrived at the Solars’ house as he knocks on the door. Phoebe opens the door.

Phoebe MacCarthy: Mark? What are you doing here?

Terry: Huh? What happened?

Mark: Yumyulack is in trouble! He turn into a Super Shlorpian!

Janiz: What?!

Phoebe MacCarthy: It’s Mark.

Mark: Thank goodness I found you guys! Yumyulack’s in trouble he turn into a Super Shlorpian and went off!

Janiz gasp in horror. Terry gasps.

Janiz: Oh my God! It’s time?! Oh no, he might be out of control! Come on family! We got a Replicant to save!

All: Right!

The family head in the bus, which caught Montez, Cherie, Nova, Pezlie, Louise, Mia, Ms. Perez, Trevor, Stacy G and Sherbet’s attention.

Louise: Solars?

Trevor: Where are they heading to?

Cherie: I don’t know but I think we’re gonna find out!

The human allies follow their friends.

Two hours later at sunset…

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack sees a shining light in a big cave near the beach, and flies in there as he growls.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: roars

Super Shlorpian Korvo hears Super Shlorpian Yumyulack’s roars and gasp

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Yumyulack?!

Super Shlorpian Korvo cries out in papa wolf mode and flies in the cave. Then, the rest of the family arrived while Terry, Pupa and Jesse turns back into their Shlorpian forms and sees Super Shlorpian Korvo flying in

Terry: Hey look! It’s Korvo! That cave must be where Yumyulack is at

Jesse: Oh no! Yumyulack!

Mark: to himself Hang on babe, we’re coming…

Phoebe: Come on guys!

Meanwhile, in the cave, Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growls, but then notice saliva falling from the roof. He then sees hundreds of bat eyes starting down at him and it is revealed to be the missing people, now a bunch of bat mutant muscular monsters as the screech loudly. Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growls. Suddenly, a horn was heard blowing, as the bat mutants stand firm like soldiers. Then, Super Shlorpian Yumyulack looks up and it is revealed to be none other than… Stephen from the Wall? But now a bat king? Or better yet, a bat mutant monster man?

Bat King Mutant Stephen: deep voice Well well well, welcome to my humble abode…

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growls. Then, Super Shlorpian Korvo flies but gasp and hides behind the rock quietly so no one can hear him. The rest of the family and Mark arrived in the cave but gasp upon seeing the bat mutants and hide successfully as well

Jesse: whispering Holy shit. A bat mutant king!

Bat King Mutant Stephen: I used to be the CEO of AT&T, next I was a farmer with a loyal little mouse. Then, I was king of the mosquitoes And now I am king of the bat mutants!

Mark: Oh god...

Terry: whispering Huh? What?

Jesse: whispering Oh my God? Is that a former Wallian?

Phoebe: Shh. Get down and stay low!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack snarls at Werebat Stephen.

Bat King Stephen: I have always have a connection with animals! Watch my screech screeches which made the bat people bow to him Now they all bow to me!

Sonya: Uh oh, I think that guy has lost his mind

Phoebe: How can you tell that’s a Wallian?

Jesse: whispering Because that bow he is wearing is the same pattern as my dress the Wallians used to wear!

Terry is confused until looks at the now closely and gasp in realization.

Terry: Oh shit! You’re right! That’s same pattern from Nova’s old dress!

Phoebe: Oh fuck!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack lets out a deafening roar.

Bat King Stephen: Ugh! What the fuck is wrong with you little… looks at Yumyulack’s face Wait a minute! I know you! You’re one of the alien brats that shrunk me and ruined my life!

Jesse: Oh shit! He knows!

Bat King Stephen: Bat men! Get him!

Two of the bath mutants grabs Super Shlorpian Yumyulack and traps him with two restraints as he roars. Super Shlorpian Yumyulack lets out another roar and starts crying. Super Shlorpian Korvo gasps.

Bat King Mutant Stephen: You and your sister ruined my life. I had the perfect life. Then I had perfect popsicle stick barn, and I had Molly. Your wall started a war that killed her. She was an innocent.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growls as tears well up in his eyes.

Jesse: Oh man. Yum looks so scared right now.

Sonya: We have to do something! He’s our brother!

Terry: I'll handle this.

Phoebe: pulls Terry down Wait, stay down Terry. We need to wait until it’s the right time!

Terry growls as his eyes glow orange. Jesse hugs Terry which helps calm him down as he takes a deep breath and grasp his hand and wait. Super Shlorpian Korvo looks at his son who is still crying and sighs.

Bat Mutant King Stephen: Oh and why I am doing this you ask Yumyulack? Because, it's the people I hate. What did we ever do to you? I sacrificed everything for a war, and for what? More suffering from you and your sister? People shrunk up by you?

Jesse: Hey. We stopped doing that!

Sonya: I know. You guys are innocent

Terry: Yeah

Bat King Mutant Stephen: Save your breath, it won't stop me from cleansing the upper levels for good. I was revived and brought back to life by a man named Mark Baine, but only afterwards I have to have live with Alpha Bat DNA that made into a bat monster. Did you know a that there was fifty viles of bat DNA underneath this lab. With this, I was able to build an mutant bat army, one I will unleash through the cave to bring balance back to the this fucked up world by killing at least half of every man and woman up there.

The others look dumbfounded by this while Cherie, Nova, Montez, Pezlie, Sherbet, Louise, Trevor and Stacy G arrived and hide behind the cave.

Terry: So basically you're ripping off Thanos, right?

Sonya: Is that guy ripping off Thanos?

Jesse: Yeah I agree and- gasp Terry get down!

Terry: whispering Oh shit sorry!

Bat King Mutant Stephen: And if you’re gonna say I’m ripping off Thanos, Nah-uh, because in Endgame, Thanos is using the infinity stones to snap everyone into dust.

Cherie: Stephen?

Nova: gasp No. It can’t be. He died two years ago.

Sherbet: sees Super Shlorpian Yumyulack What the? Yumyulack?

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growls.

Stacy G: whispering Aw man. This is bullshit. That guy is ripping off Thanos!

Montez: Oh my God. It is Stephen! points to the bow Look!

Nova, Cherie and Sherbet gasp while Pezlie whimpers and then Ms. Perez and Mia arrived.

Mia: You guys find any- sees Stephen thing…

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack starts whimpering as Super Shlorpian Korvo starts seeing red.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: finally snapping ROOOOAAAAAARRRR!

Super Shlorpian Korvo flies over to Bat King Stephen as he growls at him for endangering his son

Bat Mutant King Stephen: Oh? You are...his father, correct?

Super Shlorpian Korvo punches Bat King Stephen in the face in papa wolf fury.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: GET AWAY FROM MY LITTLE SPROUT, YOU MOTHERFUCKER!

Bat King Stephen: How DARE YOU?! I will destroy you!

Suddenly, Super Shlorpian Korvo sees Terry growling with a grin on his face as his eyes starts glowing orange.

Terry: moaning Oh fuck yeah! We're doing this, baby!

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Terry? Guys? How did you-

Terry starts transforming. As Terry’s skin turns black and he starts growing bigger and muscular as his clothes and shoes rip apart into pieces, Super Shlorpian Korvo blushes.

Stacy G: Jesse are you… wait is that your dad?

Terry: voice deepening while finishing growing bigger and muscular as he flex his arms and clenched his fists Oh yeah! moaning Fuck, this feels goooood!

Cherie: Terry?

Pezlie: giggling

Nova: No way…

Sherbet: Wow! What’s happening to him? He’s huge!

Jesse: I told you he got big!

Sherbet: That big?

Terry rips his shirt off and roars. Then, he rips off the remains of his shorts as he fully becomes his Mundane form and bangs his chest. Super Shlorpian Korvo runs up to his husband and hugs him. Then, the two husbands kiss as the two stare lovingly at each other’s eyes and then looks back to Stephen while going Papa Wolf.

Mundane Terry: Stay away from our boy!

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Release Yumyulack at once!

Suddenly, Super Shlorpian Yumyulack gets scratched by a bat mutant, which causes him to finally snapped and roars as he knocks them out and flies off to the other part of the cave as Super Shlorpian Korvo and Mundane Terry gasp. So did the others.

Jesse, Sonya and Pupa: YUMYULACK!

Mundane Terry: Korvy! What do we do now?

Cherie: Guys!

The Solars’ friends ran up them as they grow surprised.

Mundane Terry: Guys? What are you doing here? Is this guy really a Wallian?

Cherie: Yes! It is! That’s Stephen!

Super Shlorpian Korvo and Mundane Terry: What?!

Nova: It’s true! He used to be a rat milk farmer, until lost his mind after he lost Molly to the Wall war.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Oh god…

Mundane Terry: How did he lose his mind?

Montez: When he went to search for Molly’s remains, he found a thousand mosquitoes maggots and raised them as his army! We lost lives that day! Those mosquitoes turn into a pack man eating beasts that feed on human men and women.

Mundane Terry: Oh shit!

Nova: That’s also how I lost Halk. He sacrificed himself to stop the mosquito queen.

Sherbet: And then Sisto took over and ruin the Wall. She even took Pezlie.

Super Shlorpian Korvo starts crying.

Cherie: Hey Korvo. It’s okay. It was in the past. Plus, Sisto was fucking with me because she pretending to be nice to get to Pezlie and killed Sister Sasha… which led to me realizing I have to leave the Wall with Montez for good so Pezlie can be safe…

Mundane Terry: Aw Korvy… why are you crying?

Super Shlorpian Korvo: I’m sorry you guys went through so much…

Montez: It’s alright. It’s over now because you and your family saved us… that’s what matters now! hears Super Shlorpian Yumyulack roaring in the other part of the cave You better go get to your son Korvo, we got this.

Super Shlorpian Korvo nods and flies off.

Mundane Terry: Yo! Mark! Janice! Phoebe! We could use some help!

Phoebe: On it!

Phoebe turns into her aqrabuamelu form, Mark turns into his Mutant Zombie form and Janiz turns into her Super Shlorpian form as the gang gets into a fighting stance. Cherie nods at Mundane Terry for the signal and the fight ensues.

Sonya: Yo batties! Hot spot! shines a light at the bat Too much light! giggles

Meanwhile with Super Shlorpian Korvo.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Yumyulack?! Yumyulack?!

Super Shlorpian Korvo looks at himself in the reflection in the water and starts to cry tears of happiness as he laughs.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Yes! Yes! It’s true! I do love it! I do love the form! This is part of my life! I don’t care if I am half monster! My family still love me! My friends still love me! I may not have a normal sci-fi anymore! But, I still belong no matter what! Now to find my kid….

Super Shlorpian Korvo hears Super Shlorpian Yumyulack roaring. Then, he sees Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growling at him, but he can’t talking. All he can do is snarl at Super Shlorpian Korvo as he gasp.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: YUMYULACK!

Super Shlorpian Korvo lands on the ground.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Yumyulack! No! It’s me! Your dad! Korvo! It’s gonna be okay! We have to get you home! You’re out of control!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack snarls.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Please snap out of this! I am so sorry if I wasn’t there for you! I should’ve know how you were stress! And I should’ve known what Jerrica has done! That was wrong of them to treat you like shit!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack pummels on Super Shlorpian Korvo.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: roars

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Yumyulack, stop! This isn’t you!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack then starts breathing in and out he starts shedding tears of rage.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Yumyulack?

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack roars and starts crying. Super Shlorpian Korvo sees how scared his son and embraces him with a cooldown hug.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Ssh. Ssh. It’s okay.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack whimpers as tears fall down like a waterfall as Super Shlorpian Korvo soothes his face.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: whimpers

Suddenly, Mundane Terry appear and land in the water as he roars. Mundane Terry then reaches the surface and meets up with husband and son.

Mundane Terry: Korvy? Did you find Yumyu- gasp upon seeing Super Shlorpian Yumyulack crying Oh Yumyulack…

Super Shlorpian Korvo: But I want you to know that I will always love you. I know you’re growing up and you been trying to so hard to make me proud. But, you already did make me proud. And I will always love you. You may be a teenager now, but you will always be my little sprout…

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack smiles. As the father and son Super Shlorpians embrace, Yumyulack’s sanity finally returns

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Thanks, dad.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Anytime my little sprout!

Jesse: Guys! falls in the water with Sonya and Pupa while screaming Did you find Yumyulack?

Mundane Terry cries with happiness.

Mundane Terry: wiping his tear away Yes we did Jesse.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Feeling better?

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Yeah. Thanks for coming for me guys!

Sonya: Anytime!

Then, the rest of the gang fall in the water.

Stacy G: Yumyulack!

Mia: You’re okay!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack smiles. Suddenly, he sees Montez moaning in pain while holding his right arm for strange reason.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Montez, what happened?

Cherie: A bat attacked him

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: What?

Jesse: And, you’re not gonna like what happened after the bat attack him Yummybear.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: What happened?

Montez groans in pain and it was revealed in horror, the the bat mutant bit him as Super Shlorpian Yumyulack gasp in horror..

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: gasp You got bitten didn’t you?

Montez nodded.

Cherie: Luckily, there isn’t any side effects. But we have to get out of here before Stephen and some of the bat mutant come back!

Mutant Zombie Mark: Babe!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Mark!

The two monsters boyfriends embrace in a kiss. Then, Mutant Zombie Mark blushes at Super Shlorpian Yumyulack’s muscular pecs.

Mutant Zombie Mark: Damn babe, you look so hot!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Thanks. It’s a family thing.

Aqrabuamelu Phoebe: We’re just happy you’re okay and-

Suddenly, Bat Mutant King Stephen flies down and growls at the family.

Bat Mutant King Stephen: You! You ruined everything!

Jesse: Hey! It was your fault! If you haven’t put the blame something you did on Yumyulack and act like a jerk all the time, none of this would’ve happened! But, you messed with my big brother you bitch!

Bat Mutant King Stephen laughs

Bat Mutant King Stephen: And what are you going to do? Fight me?

Jesse puts up her fists. Then, Jesse throw a rock at Bat King Mutant Stephen, who growls and tries to harm Jesse, until Super Shlorpian Yumyulack punches him to the Wall.

All: Whoa!

Jesse and Sonya: Damn…

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Don’t touch my sisters!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack then apologizes.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Sorry you guys had to see me punch Stephen.

Nova: It’s all good!

Stacy G: Yeah.

Sonya smiles and hugs her sister.

Bat Mutant King Stephen: Why you little brat!

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack growls. Super Shlorpian Yumyulack roars and uses his own ice breath but with fire and shoots it on Bat Mutant King Stephen as he helps in pain. Then, his control over some bat mutants turn some of them back into humans, but some of them remained transformed and by Stephen’s side.

Mundane Terry: Oh shit!

Bat Mutant King Stephen: This ain’t over Solars! flies away with the rest of the bat mutant people I’ll have my revenge!

As Super Shlorpian Yumyulack breathes in and out, Super Shlorpian Korvo never felt so proud of his son and happily embraces him.

Super Shlorpian Korvo: Glad you’re okay.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: So, how did I do?

Super Shlorpian Korvo: You did amazing. I am so proud of you.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack smiles and hugs his father.

Super Shlorpian Yumyulack: Thanks dad…

The rest of the family smiles at this touching moment along with their friends. Later, Human Korvo heads to Starlight with a firm disappointed face and towards Jerrica, her sister and Rio.

Jerrica: Korey? What are you doing here?

Human Korvo: Don’t say a word!

Jerrica, her sisters and Rio gasped in shock.

Ash: What?

Human Korvo: I’m sorry, but the block party is off!

Shana: What?

Ash: Why?!

Human Korvo: Because, you five turned it into a ridiculous competition with three fucking brats and destroyed the props I worked so hard on with my friends. How could you? I trusted you. And instead, you ruined the block party. And most of all, you messed with my son!

Jerrica growls.

Jerrica: But the Misfits-

Human Korvo: Misfits nothing! You five should be ashamed of yourselves! The block party is about celebrating our differences and coming together, not any ridiculous competition. Well, it’s too late. Come on I have to show you five something.

As Human Korvo takes Jerrica, her sisters and Rio to the stadium, they see the Misfits on the stage

Stormer: Guess what everybody?! We have-

Human Korvo then shoves Stormer off the stage

Stormer: Hey what was that for?

Human Korvo: That should teach you.

Human Korvo’s anger then turns to sadness as he taps the microphone and takes a deep breath

Human Korvo: Everyone… I have some bad news… the block party is cancelled… and we lost so many friends and love ones, who been transformed into Bat Mutants, by a deranged former CEO of AT&T.

People gasp and murmur.

Human Korvo: I’m so sorry but a lot feuding has been happening between Starlight and the Misfits, props have been destroyed, live were lost while some were saved… so the block party will now be a memorial service, for some who lost their sanity to the former CEO Stephen, who is now a crazy bat mutant king…

People gasps as a woman faints.

Jerrica: gasp Oh no… I didn’t know… what have we done…

Kim: We ruined everything…

Ash: Now the block party is cancelled and it’s all our faults

Then, the crowd started have a moment of silence while some started crying over the loss of their friends and loved ones.

Jerrica: Oh Korey, we’re so sorry. Our competition and silly feud ruined everything you worked so hard on. We should’ve listen to Baxter. We’re really sorry for how we treated your son…

Human Korvo scowls.

Human Korvo: I’m sorry, but I’m afraid I’m gonna have to end our partnership because of this ridiculous feud. You and your sisters and friends are gonna work together with the Misfits and prepare things for the memorial service as punishments for ruining everything for the block party. And you owe my kid an apology after… because you teams have done quite enough…

Jerrica: But… sighs as she gives in

Human Korvo then leaves. The audience, who are now heartbroken, jeers at Jerrica, her sisters, Rio and the Misfits for ruining the plans for the block party.

Later, at the memorial service…

A lot people have gathered to mourn the loss of their loved ones while the Solars are at home…

Terry: I can’t believe Stephen would do this…

Korvo looks out the window and sighs sadly. Terry walks up to him.

Terry: Honey, I am so sorry that these people at Starlight ruined everything you worked so hard on for the block party. Everyone would have loved this. I should’ve known. I should’ve been there…

Korvo sighs.

Korvo: Terry, there is nothing you could’ve done. Plus, Yumyulack didn’t deserved to be treated like that. And, I can’t believe so many innocent people have lost their lives to Stephen…

Janiz: I know. They are no longer innocent humans but now loyal guards for a deranged mourner…

Terry hugs Korvo.

Terry: Babe, I am so sorry.

Korvo: It’s okay. At least our partnership with Starlight is over.

Korvo smiles as the hug breaks.

Korvo: And I love that you and the guys came for me honey. Thank you.

Terry: Anytime boo.

The two husbands kiss while moaning lovingly.

Phoebe MacCarthy: I hope the kids took it well. They were also mourning this morning too.

And then Korvo sighs. Meanwhile, Yumyulack approaches his sisters while they were playing Hungry, Hungry Hippos while laughing.

Yumyulack: Hey, uh girls?

Sonya: Huh? Oh hey Yummybear.

Jesse: Yes?

Yumyulack: Jesse, Sonya, I just wanted to say. I’m sorry.

Jesse and Sonya looked surprised.

Jesse: You are? For what?

Sonya: Yeah?

Jesse and Sonya smile

Yumyulack: For being a dick. For rejecting our siblings hugs. And for ditching you two and missing the presentation..l

Jesse: Aw Yumbear…

Yumyulack: And I’m sorry I haven’t been able to spend time with you because of something stupid that I tried to hard to make Korvo proud.

Sonya: Aaw it’s okay Yummybear. We know you didn’t mean it.

Yumyulack: I know… I just feel like… a big jerk… breaks down crying

Seeing how overwhelmed and emotional their brother is feeling, Jesse and Sonya embrace Yumyulack as the comfort and soothe him.

Jesse and Sonya: D’aw. Aaw. There, there Yummybear. It’s okay. Shh shh. It’s okay big brother. There there. Hush hush hush hush hush.

Pupa: comes in the room Aw, Yumyulack…

Pupa then hugs Yumyulack as he continues crying.

Yumyulack: tearfully I’m so sorry I’ve been an awful big brother… hics Sibling hug?

Jesse, Sonya and Pupa: smiling Sibling hug.

Jesse, Sonya and Pupa gives Yumyulack a cooldown hug as he continues crying. A thunderstorm happens as mourners gather around the statue of those who have lost themselves and their sanities to Stephen. After paying their respects, the crowd walks away tearfully while Korvo watches from the house as he sighs.

Later that evening…

Korvo is fast asleep in his bed. He the hears sniffling and it turns out Yumyulack is crying because of what happened yesterday and today. Seeing how overwhelmed his son is, Korvo soothe Yumyulack’s face as Yumyulack continue crying.

Korvo: Shh Shh… it’s okay my little sprout… daddy’s here…

Yumyulack weeps as he looks at Korvo, who brings him close and snuggles with Yumyulack as he smiles. A thunder collapses, which made Jesse, Sonya and Pupa run to Korvo and Terry’s room screaming and lands on their dads’ bed as they whimper in the covers. Korvo laughs and then Terry came in laugh.

Terry: Hey sweeties. Did the thunderstorm scare ya?

Jesse, Sonya and Pupa: Mmm-hmm.

Korvo: chuckles Alright you four. Sweet dreams.

Once Terry came in bed and puts the blanket all over his husband, kids and himself, Terry and Korvo kiss each other on the lips as their kids fall asleep. Once Korvo and Terry heads to sleep, Yumyulack smiles in his sleep as he feels his father’s love is making him feel… safe.

THE END

[nightmyst14-blog]

The Lost Legendary Pt2

*Last post was October 4th* *sighs* FRICKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK-

I feel bad for leaving you guys hanging for a whole 2 WEEKS. I meant to post pt 2 last week as like a weekly or bi-weekly thing, but CREATIVE BLOCK DECIDES TO STRIKE ME IN THE FRICKEN KNEES-

Anyways, this will be a double upload to make up for it, I am TRULY sorry guys. This one is a bit shorter tho..

Setting: *In the Natural History Museum, the group of kids were walking along the dark hallways, looking for the Scuppernong Beast Exhibit. GIngerbrave is leading the way, with Cream Puff making a small light spell so they could see.*

Strawberry: Its dark!

Walnut: ssh!! Hush, Strawberry!!

Straw. Crepe: Are you sure you know where you’re going, Wiz?

Wizard: Its Wizard!! *huffs.* And yes, I am. Papa showed me the other times before.

Strawberry: I-Its dark…

Walnut: Hold my hand!! 

Cream Puff: Me too! *she grabs her other hand*

*They soon arrive at the Dark Beast Exhibit, where the main attraction was covered up. A large coffin made of dark oak was placed there, covered in odd runes.*

Straw. Crepe: Wow!!

Wizard: There. Can we go??

Walnut: Wait, I wanna have a closer look!!

*Walnut soon walked up to it, using her magnifying glass. The runs were etched into the wood, glowing a soft purple.*

Cream Puff: What is it say?

Walnut: I dont know. The language seems unknown to me. Crepe?

Straw. Crepe: *grins, scans it* *waits before speaking.* It appears to be over 300 years old, but the magic within it makes it appear to be freshly made. The data reads that leaks some kind of a old magic..

Wizard: Nonsense. Pap wouldn't be dumb enough to store such an artifact in here. Its obviously fake.

Straw. Crepe; I don;t know Wiz. my scanners ARE sensing something alive in there.

Strawberry; M-maybe its the monster!!

Gingerbrave: Do you think its sleeping in there??

Wizard: *huffs in annoyance* Falsehoods, I tell you!! Its all fake! Here,step aside.

Gingerbrave: WIzard-

Wizard; *climbs up to the coffin* Look, even the runes are fake. Here I’ll read them. 

*He does so, the others getting slightly nervous. Strawberry and Cream Puff were holding into each other, shaking. The runes seem to glow as Wizard read them, but soon faded back to its normal color.*

Wizard; *huffs* Told you. Can we go to bed now?

Gingerbrave: *nervously laughs* Y-yeah…

Walnut: *smiles* You sure showed us ,Wizard!!

Wizard: Obviously.

Strawberry: *yawns* Let’s go, I'm sleepy.

Straw. Crepe; *hops down from the exhibit* Aww, I hoped it was real.. Then I could’ve scanned its dough.

Cream Puff: M-Maybe…*laughs nervously* Perhaps its is a myth like Mr. Tea Knight said…

Gingerbrave: Whatever it is, we should go.

??: Oh?? Leaving so soon?

*The group of kids soon turn around, soon being caught in a magic net.*

Kids: H-hey!! *they wiggle around in the net*

Criminal: *appears out from the shadows with two others* Hello kids. Having a fun late night school trip?

[papaya-inspiration]

Hi! How are you doing? Have you published a lot of papers? That sounds really cool! How long does the whole process take, if you don't mind me asking?

Hey puppy! I'm doing pretty well. Been working on a new side project that's got me very jazzed lately (but don't tell my supervisor, because it's not strictly what they're paying me to work rn jkjkj XD)

Have you published a lot of papers?

The answer is... yes and no. I only have one first author paper right now--that means that I lead and did the majority of the work and writing myself. I also have one 2nd author and one 3rd author paper, which is honestly a bit behind where I wanted to be at this point in grad school. I'll be applying to post doctoral positions in the fall, and it would have been really nice to have a few more papers that I was the lead on under my belt before I get there. Unfortunately, it takes a long time to push a project through the publication process, and my current projects probably won't quite get there in time for applications. (I've got one and a half that I still kind of have hope for. We'll see.)

That said, I'm on over two dozen other papers. I'm an observational astronomer, and for several years now I've volunteered to take survey data on one of the large groundbased telescopes. What this means is that every so often I stay up all night operating the telescope and taking data for other people. (This happens remotely over zoom and an ssh terminal window, I don't actually get to go to the telescope.) In return, the people who use that data give me authorship on their paper. I'm not usually involved in the data analysis, but my name is on there! Separately, I'm part of a few large collaborations where I help with target vetting or data cleaning, and I also get offered authorship for that work too.

How long does the whole process take, if you don't mind me asking?

Oh gosh. A long ass time. Then double it. First you have to do all the data analysis, which always takes three times as long as you expect it to. Then you have to write the paper, which you usually do simultaneously with redoing a bunch of the analysis because you realize there are a bunch of other angles to cover. Then you send out the paper to co-authors and give them anywhere from two-weeks to a month to review it and send you comments. Sometimes this results in more redoing of analysis. If the edits are substantial enough, you send it around for another round of comments. Then you submit it to the journal, who can take anywhere up to a few months to match you with a referee, who reads your paper and sends you back additional comments. Then you have a few months to do revisions and apply their suggested changes, send it around to co-authors for comments again, and then send it back in. Sometimes there is a second round of refereeing, though that isn't common. Then it goes to proof and, eventually is published.

The whole process, starting from when you "finish" the analysis and the first draft of the paper writing, can take anywhere from a few months to a few years. It varies by journal as well. Publishing in high profile journals like Science and Nature can take a notoriously long time. (I am on one paper in Science, and it nearly two years from the first time we submitted it to when it appeared in print.) That said, shorter papers in more specialized journals can go through in just a few months. And there are other options, like research notes (which don't get peer reviewed) that go up even faster.

[iamthejinyouarethejin]

Not Just A Crush

Valentine’s Day.

It’s a turbulent day for all.

Well, not for all, but for many.

Especially in your case.

You had a screwed up. MY GOSH, you had screwed up.

You mind was pressuring you to make yourself vulnerable to the one person who could make you weak at any moment.

Valentino.

Love is a strong word, but was it the wrong word? No way in Ohio.

Your school’s senior class always had a big Valentine’s Day Fundraiser, five buckaroos for a generous portion of candy, a personalized note, and a balloon.

I think I’m gonna get him one.

“And what could posses you to do that?”

“I said that out loud?”

“Loud and clear, sister.”

“Well, I dunno,” you shrugged. “I’m not gonna sign my name of course… Or should I?"

“I’ll pay for it!” One of your friends chimed in from across the table.

“Cesi, no way.”

“YES WAY!"

And somehow, you found yourself writing him a two page long note saying how much you liked him, but still ended up shortening it to a few words.

Anonymous.

You stuffed some tissues in your pocket, tapping your pen on your desk.

"That's smart... In case of rejection, always be prepared."

"Great pep talk," you rolled your eyes. "I guess you're right. I don't even see the point in this."

"Well we do!" your friends chimed in unison.

There you were, giving your homeroom teacher the note and $5 along with it, praying by some miraculous power you weren't at school that day.

But you were, and that week before Valentine's Day went by way too fast.

"HE'S READING IT!!!!" Cesi poked her head in from the other classroom, grinning. "C'mere!"

You and a couple others trotted along to Mrs. Ortega's class, barely looking in, but positioned just well enough to hear everything.

"Anonymous? Bro-"

"Shut up. You don't even know who it's from."

Oh, he looked so beautiful in red. It worked wonders with his skin. He looked even more gorgeous than he usually did to you.

"Ssh, ssh-" Cesi snapped. "Guys!"

"To..."

"I'm gonna die."

"You'll be fine."

You covered your eyers, biting the insides of your cheeks, hoping for the worst.

"From Anonymous. 'Hey. How are you? I like you.' Smiley face."

"I'm actully gonna die."

"That's Valentina's handwriting!" a guy sqwacked.

"Shut up... there's no way- She could... like me?''

"Dude- haven't you wanted this since like the second grade?"

"Well, yeah- But I didn't realize how I actually felt until this year and just seeing her all pretty and dolled up every day... she makes me uncontrollable without even realizing it."

"Dolled up? It's not like she dresses up. She wears the same stuff we all do."

"But she's so... perfect... I guess nobody's perfect, but she it makes it hard for me to truly believe that."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"Too much?"

"You're down bad, bro."

"I know that. That's why I'm glad I'm not in her class and she's not in mi-"

"Hey Valentino!"

"Mm?'

NO NO NO NO NO NO.

"Shut up, Cesi, shut the hell up."

"No."

"Valenti-"

"Before you say anything, I'm sorry if the note weired you out, I was being strange as hell and I don't know wh-"

"You don't have to apologize..." he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. His face was flushing with a bright red, and the palms of his hands were drenched in sweat. "I- I'm just a little hot right now."

You smirked a little, seeing how hot he did look. He was sweaty, squirming, and seemed very uncomfortable. You loved to see it.

"So I'm assuming-"

"I like you too? Yeah."

"Yeah..." you nodded. "Well, at least we didn't have to do this on Instagram live like those juniors did last year."

"Right..."

"That would've been a catastrophe."

"..."

"Um... So- D-Do you want to hang out or s-something? W-We could go to the movies and do stuff... l-later, I don't know."

"Stuff?" his friend chuckled.

"I mean... Not like that, unless you want to-"

"Oh no no, it's up to you."

"Well I-"

"My family is-"

"And I want you to be-"

"Oh, sorry."

"No- You go first."

"No! You can go. It's fine."

"Can you two dorks actually look each other in the eye for a minture and say "I like you"? What's so hard about that?"

EVERYTHING.

"Ahahah..." Valentino awkwardly scratched the back of his neck. "Uh- Yeah, I like you, I do. A lot. A whole whole lot. Don't blame me for it. She's the pretty one."

Blushiiiiiiin'.

"Oh- me? Heck nah. If anything, I'm the sidekick to the pretty girl."

"Don't say that. Smart, respectable girls are pretty girls. And I think every girl is at least one of those things in her own way. You just happen to be both in the way I find deathly attractive."

You both laughed, shaking your heads.

"Ok then?"

"Haha, yeah." You avoided his gaze, reaching your hand out for his.

"Happy Valentine's Day, Valentine?"

"Happy Valentine's Day." :)

[horsegamergirl]

Game update is here:

"THE BUZZING BAZAAR

Hey, StarFam! The Bazaar has made its way back to Jorvik, bringing deals on horses for an entire week.

HORSE DISCOUNTS!

★The Morgan is 549 Star coins

★The Appaloosa is 499 Star coins

★The American Paint Horse is 499 Star coins

★The Knabstrupper is 399 Star coins

Head over to the Bazaar in Moorland to grab these discounts, or visit the horses' usual homes around Jorvik to get these discounts for a limited time. These special offers will be around until the Wednesday Update on September 4th.

SSH EXCLUSIVES NOW IN JORVIK!

All horses that were once exclusive on the Star Stable Horses App are now available in Jorvik! From this update on, all app horses (aside from the Texas Bluebell) will be permanently found in SSO. Plus, a few special coat variations that were once app exclusive are available at the Bazaar:

Variations of the Morgan, Appaloosa, American Paint Horse, and Knabstrupper as mentioned above!

Additionally, one Icelandic, one Gotland Pony, one Finn Horse, and two Fjord Horse variations are permanently in Jorvik and temporarily discounted at the Bazaar.

THE TRAILBLAZER TRACK!

The Trailblazer Track is live for one more week, rewarding hard working Star Riders with unique items for both rider and horse. Keep up with daily activities all over Jorvik, and earn Trail Points as you go! Every time you earn 1000 Trail Points, you'll reach Milestones that unlock rewards! There are 25 milestones in total, meaning 25 sparkling prizes.

If you aren't a Star Rider, you'll still earn the Trail Points, but won't be able to collect the rewards. If you choose to become a Star Rider, you will be able to collect them automatically.

Try it out and let us know what you think about the Trailblazer Track! It's available until September 4th.

MORE MOORLAND!

Ydris caught wind of the ongoing renovations around Moorland, and decided to give his circus tent a little glow up on his own! Penny and Polly are also excited to share their changes to the Pony Race, so bring out your small, but feisty steeds and check it out!

HORSE RETIREMENT

The next horse to leave us for greener pastures is the Gen 2 English Thoroughbred. During the Wednesday Update on October 23rd, it will leave Jorvik and not be available for purchase from then on. Find them at Ferdinand's Horse Market before it receives its well-earned retirement! You will be able to purchase the Thoroughbred for 400 Star Coins.

While we love each and every one of our old horses, we sometimes need to make changes to ensure the game can run at the best possible performance. One of these changes will be to slowly phase out our very oldest horses.

If you already have purchased these horses, no need to worry! The horses will stay unchanged in your safe ownership. Please note that they will not be further supported with is bug fixes, updates, or new tack.

COMING NEXT WEEK!

Paddock Props have arrived at Paddock Island, along with the return of some beloved birthday horses!"

Additional news from their Instagram:

"We've also updated the lighting in your home stable so it looks a little bit brighter and warmer🌅"

[babydetectivekoala]

~Avoidance~

Little:Vaggie

Caregiver:Charlie

Third person's pov: After Vaggie had first slipped around Charlie, she felt embarrassed because this wasn't supposed to happen.

Vaggie loves Charlie and doesn't want to lose her.

Vaggie was the first to wake up.

'Mmm, what happened last night?' Vaggie thought then she felt it.

Vaggie got out of bed and surely enough, she has a diaper on.

Vaggie went to the bathroom to take off the padding material and went out.

'How could I let this happen?' Vaggie questioned in thought.

'I should stop doing it if it means I won't be weak around Charlie like this anymore besides, she probably thinks I'm weird' Vaggie thought again.

'I love her and this could change her perspective of me' She thought and so that's what she did.

It's been a week since Vaggie last regressed and thankfully for her Charlie didn't notice.

It's getting harder and harder for Vaggie not to regress.

She knows it's not healthy but she'll endure it so that no one will see her vulnerable side.

Vaggie rather takes care of Charlie than let it be the other way around.

After another week had pass was when Charlie started to notice the change in Vaggie and how ever since she found out about her little side.

So, Charlie decided to confront her about it.

Vaggie was in their room reading a book.

Charlie gently opened and close the door, Vaggie looked up to see Charlie.

"Hey Hun, what do you need?" Vaggie asked suddenly nervous.

"What's wrong with you?" Charlie raised an eyebrow.

"W-what do you mean?" Vaggie asked nervously internally cursing herself for stuttering.

"Well, it feels like you're avoiding me and ever since I found out about your little side, you haven't regress" Charlie explained.

"I'm fine" Vaggie lied.

"Your lying" Charlie told her.

"I said I'm fine" Vaggie lied through her teeth.

"Stop lying!" Charlie told her which made Vaggie broke.

"I said I'm fine!" Vaggie shouted tears forming in her eyes.

Charlie was shock, this wasn't like Vaggie.

She doesn't cry that much and she thinks it makes her weak.

Charlie worriedly walked towards Vaggie.

"Vaggie..." Charlie said slowly.

"M sowwy" Vaggie apologized.

Charlie wrapped her arms around her.

She did notice the lisp and know that Vaggie had slipped into her headspace.

"Ssh, you don't need to apologize how old are you?" Charlie reassured then asked.

Vaggie let out a shaky breath and put up two fingers.

Charlie smiled softly.

"I can deal with that, now can you go get me your little space items?" Charlie said and cleaned her before she did.

Vaggie stood up and went to get her little space items from under the bed.

Charlie look through the little bag and took a red pacifier and stuffed moth.

Vaggie was still nervous about doing this in front of Charlie.

"What do you want to do?" Charlie asked her mentally regressed girlfriend.

"Pway with me?" Vaggie asked still nervous.

"Sure" Charlie smiled and that's what they did, they played together and watched cartoons.

End of chapter.

[dewypetrichor]

Maybe Next Time

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” Desmond Tutu

❁ I woke up this morning and decided to kill myself tonight..

How long I’ve been laying on this couch? 2 Days? A week? 15 minutes she said. My wall clock is a ‘she’. That silly designation just proves enough how few persons are in my life. Just two. It could be worse if they decide to leave. Everyone always does. That’s why I always brace myself for a goodbye. Cause that’s all I’ve ever known. This time is my turn to say goodbye.

The couch is terrible. A used one, plush floral. So small that my legs are dangling from knees. She is indeed supposed to be vintage not snug. But would it be delighted to die in a comfortable couch? Comfort is a trap and a trap can make you die.

“Psst.. you ready?” a familiar whisper I heard. 

Her voice is all I can hear for the past few days. Getting softer but weirdly more persuasive each day. Always appears when I’m feeling…things. She is sometimes a supporter or a downer. She is like salt. She can make everything better and worse. Her words sting like crazy when they touch the wound. The way she speaks is so delicate, gentle but sharp. I want her gone. Or I don’t. Confusing.

“And I shall stay with you until your last breath.” Oh It’s like a giant hug. 

I wish Mother would talk to me like that. I wish she would be angry with the way I live. I wish she would call me every weekend. I wish she would stop me leaving house when I was 15. I wish she would hug me and kiss me on forehead when Father died. I wish oh I wish so many things from you, Mother. Does that make me a bad daughter for wishing for your basic reaction? 

“Ssh ssh forget about her. You know she is busy with her new family, her new husband. Her new son.” 

She always speaks the truth. She said it too clearly on every words like she was talking to a little girl. I hate it. I’m tired of truth. Sometimes I want some pretty lies. Like Weather Forecast, being too optimistic that tomorrow would be rainy. It gives a tiny hope for me who always yearns the smell of wet ground in the middle of summer.

“Stop buying time. Go for it.” 

I stood up so slowly like there’s this huge weight on my back. 

“You know where it is.”

Second drawer on the left side. I eyed the drawer in distance before approached closer. I opened it. Razor blade and some pills. I know them so well by this time.

“You choose. I swear I will make it painless for you.” Her voice was too close that I almost could feel her lips on my ears. Her fingers on my shoulder. Her body on my back. Funny, she’s not even real.

“Oh honey, I am as real as your mind is.”

I took the razor blade with a shaking hand. I used to make some tiny scratches on left wrist. One time I made it too big that my left wrist needed some stiches. There’s still a visible scar that I tried to hide in any possible way.

“Why don’t you make a tiny one? As a reminder of how familiar the feeling is.”

Should I? I knew she just didn’t want me to stop. Didn’t want me to lose focus. Or worse, escape. She always wants to be in control. She thinks she’s the boss.

“There’s no boss. We’re partners. Partners help each other.” It was scary how desperate she sounded just now.

“Now now.. Let’s get over it, Dear. What are you waiting for?”

A light. It’s too dark in here.

Suddenly a soft furry touch on my legs startled me with a jolt. I dropped the razor blade, surprised by a tiny sound.

“Meow.”

❁ A voice that saved me

Yesterday I found a stray cat on the side of the road. A three legged cat. I didn’t know what’s in me to decide to take it with me. It’s thin and heavily dehydrated. Yet its eyes were bold and courageous. I almost slapped myself for being envious to a cat. And no one probably would believe that he is my savior.

I might need to postpone my private plan with razor blade for another time. Maybe until he‘s strong enough in his three legs. 

❁ A voice from a long time ago

Beep.

…… Hey Bri. It’s me. You probably hate me so much right now. I know I am such a terrible mother and …. I have no right to ask you for a favor but.. Honey, I wish.. I wish you would give me a chance. I wanna start over, I wanna be a better person, a better mother. For you and….Ben, your little brother. He keeps asking for you after I told him he has a sister. And honestly I’m starting to run out of ideas of where you are now heh heh.

I…was sad, Bri. When your father died, I felt like I’ve lost a home, lost a shoulder to lean on. I have no words to say to you other than sorry. Bri, Honey, I’m so sorry. I would feel sorry for the rest of my life if that’s what you want. When I truly realized that you were gone leaving me, I felt a huge hole in my heart that always wakes me up every night. I don’t know if it’s because of regret or longing but Bri… for once I finally asked for help. I wanna fix myself so that someday I can face you again. Bri… I never stop saying your name in my mind every single day. And Bri…I’m feeling better now. At least that’s what I thought after so many sessions of talking, you know heh heh. 

I wanna meet you, Honey. We wanna meet you. Can you at least think about it? Call me when you’re ready. We’ll be waiting for you. I will always wait. I love you Bri.

Beep

I listened to it for the 7th times today with Benji purring on my side. The first I heard it I left it on repeat the whole day just for a slap on face that that day was actually not a dream…or hallucination. That was a week ago. And that was not it alright.

She is waiting for my call-back, isn’t she? Is it too late already? But she said “when you’re ready”. Will she keep waiting? She said “I will always wait”. I contemplated the good and bad that might happens but what kept bugging me was that a week that slipped away was all just my stupid pride. I had no idea I have that much pride. 

I picked up my long used phone and typed the phone number that I’d memorized for a week.

Ring…ring… “Hello.” That was quick.

I took a deep breath. 

“Hello, Mother.”

❁ The End ❁

[ynparker]

Waiting for Spiderman - (Part 3) Peter Parker x (Y/N)

Peter Parker x fem!stark!avenger!reader

Summary: Peter Parker is new to the Avengers, but that doesn't stop him from falling for Tony Stark's daughter.

Warnings: Flash being an absolute jerk

A/N: Hey guys! This fanfic is inspired by the song 'Waiting for Superman' by Daughtry (I changed it to Spiderman for obvious reasons). Also, Pietro never died. Let me know if you want to be tagged. Enjoy ;)

(Y/N)'s eyes shot past Peter, surprised as she heard his name being called. A boy ans girl their age were hurrying towards him. Peter was smiling and waving at them.

"Hey," the boy said as he caught up with them. "You forgot to text me last night, I thought we were going to build my new Lego death star?"

(Y/N) raised her eyebrows and a smile crossed her face. The girl laughed and patted Peter on the shoulder. "You're busted, Parker," she said. "Looks like she just found out how much of a nerd you are."

Before Peter could stammer out an answer, the girl spoke again. "I'm MJ by the way," she introduced herself. "And that's Ned. For the record, I'm not even sure why I'm friends with these dorks.

Peter looked scandalized, but (Y/N) was grinning. She was beginning to like his friends more and more. "Nice to meet you guys," she smiled at them. "I'm (Y/N), (Y/N) Stark."

Ned's eyes widened slowly. "Whoah," he gasped. "You're actually Tony Stark's daughter?"

"That's me," she said, giving a confident shrug. She always played it cool when people mentioned her dad. Provided they didn't overdo it, of course.

"And you're hanging out with us?" Ned asked. The other three laughed at this. "Well, Peter's Spiderman and he hangs out with you," she countered reasonably. In a trice, Peter had his hand over her mouth. "Ssh!!" he hissed, looking around. "Someone might hear you! We're only like a block away from Midtown!"

"Wow," MJ remarked in an unimpressed voice. "You are really into her." Immediately, Peter pulled away and (Y/N) felt her face growing bright red.

Thankfully, Ned changed the subject. "So, (Y/N), did you transfer to Midtown or do you go to another school?"

"No, my dad transferred me two weeks ago," she replied. Ned frowned. "Weird, I'm surprised Flash hasn't asked you out by now," he said. "I try to keep a low profile," the girl replied. "And who is Flash?"

"The scum of Midtown, the ant in our sock, the mosquito bite under our toe, you get the idea," MJ explained. "He's really rich, but he's also a total bully," Ned informed her. "Yeah, he's been bullying especially me for years," Peter said. "There's a lot of kids that hang out with him, though," he added, worry creeping into his voice as if being scared (Y/N) would hang out with him too.

(Y/N) put a comforting arm around him. "For what it's worth, he sounds like an idiotic jerk," she told him. Peter smiled. "Thanks, (Y/N)," he said, and then looked ahead. They had reached Midtown High, the large building towering over the swarm of students entering the school or hanging out and talking.

The four walked up to the steps of the school. Right as they were about to enter, something wet hit the small of (Y/N)'s back.

"What the-" she turned around in outrage, just in time to see a smug smile on the face of a boy who had just ridden a car into a huge puddle right behind her.

"Good morning, Pen!s Parker!" the boy called out gleefully. "Hope you don't mind, you looked a little tired so I decided to wake you up."

"That is Flash," MJ muttered under her breath to you. "Pen!s Parker?" (Y/N) muttered back. "It is taking everything in me not to blast him into a wall right now."

"Come on, Peter, he's not worth it," Ned said, pulling Peter into the building. Peter looked positively mortified at (Y/N) having to see him get bullied by Flash like that, but when he looked at her, she was busy peeling off her wet coat.

"I'm sorry about that," he told her, eyeing it. "Oh, it's all good" she smiled, waving it aside. "Watch this." She stepped into an empty doorway and held out her coat. The others watched her curiously. (Y/N) waved her hand over the coat, smiling as she saw the wet spot grow smaller and smaller until the fabric was dry.

"I could do it with my hands glowing but that could be a little conspicuous in a crowded corridor," the girl said nonchalantly as the three others looked at her, transfixed.

Peter's eyes were wide as he hurriedly looked around to see if anyone else had witnessed that. "How did you do that? That was so cool!" he exclaimed, the excitement in his face making (Y/N) laugh. "I'm serious!" the boy insisted. "You have the coolest power out of like all of the Avengers!"

"Better not let my dad hear you say that," (Y/N) laughed and turned him around so he was standing with his back to her.

He became suddenly aware of the fact that Flash's little stunt had made the back of his jacket wet as well, and smiled as he felt it dry slowly. He looked at (Y/N) with admiration as she dried off MJ and Ned as well.

"Miss Stark?"

A voice behind them made all four whip around as they realized the new guidance counselor, Mrs. Dankworth, standing behind them. (Y/N) immediately brushed the hair out of her face and gave a winning smile. It reminded Peter very much of Mr. Stark's expression when he was winning someone over.

"Mrs. Dankworth, good morning!" (Y/N) smiled. "Is everything ok?" The lady smoothed her cardigan and eyed the girl over her horn-rimmed glasses. "Well, I just wanted to let you know you've been transferred to second period P.E. on Wednesdays and Fridays, there's been a slight mix-up in the schedules so we've been changing them for some of the students."

Peter and Ned exchanged excited glances. This would mean (Y/N) would be taking P.E. with them, meaning they would have one class with her.

"That's fine," (Y/N) was saying. "Thank you so much for letting me know, Mrs. Dankworth." The woman gave a small smile. When (Y/N) turned, MJ was looking at her with an impressed look in her eye.

"Oh, you're good," she said. (Y/N) laughed. "I get the flattery from my father."

"Yeah, Mr. Stark does know how to please a crowd," Peter agreed. "Are you calling me a crowd pleaser, Parker?" (Y/N) asked, quirking her brow at him. Peter immediately went red. "N-no, no, what I meant was..."

"Relax, I was just messing with you," (Y/N) said, holding her hand up. "I have to go or I'll be late for first period science."

"I have first period science too," MJ said. "I'll walk with you." (Y/N) smiled and nodded, waving goodbye to the other two.

"Dude," Ned said when the girls were well out of earshot. "You like her." Peter looked at his best friend, hoping he looked convincing. "What? No, no, she's just a friend."

"Are you listening to yourself? You're literally living with (Y/N) Stark, who is cute, hot and totally into you, and you're telling me she's just a friend?"

Peter rolled his eyes. "I like her as a friend," he insisted. Ned scoffed. "And Flash is my new best friend."

"Shut up."

---

(Y/N) made her way to the gym with mixed feelings. She and MJ had spent the whole lesson either pretending to pay attention or being resigned to pay attention when they were caught talking. Somehow, MJ seemed convinced that (Y/N) was crazy about Peter, despite the fact that the two had only met yesterday.

She pushed the door to the girl's changing rooms open, flinching when she heard a high-pitched laugh echo in her ears. "I cannot believe you would pass out on an opportunity to marry Thor!"

(Y/N)'s eyes widened as she realized they were talking about her uncle. "Nah," another girl's voice replied. 'I'd prefer a one night stand with him. I mean, have you seen the muscles on that guy?" (Y/N) clapped a hand over her mouth as she tried to stifle her laughter, making a mental note to ask Thor what he thought of girls wanting to hook up with him.

"Ok, and what about... Iron Man?"

Oh, this should be good.

"Iron Man? I'd probably want to marry him."

"Yeah, same. I feel like he's the kind of guy who would protect you no matter what."

Well, they got that right.

"And he's hot enough, isn't he?"

The giggle was out of (Y/N)'s mouth before she could stop it. She could practically hear the girls look up. "Hello?" one of them called. "Is anyone there?"

(Y/N) squeezed her eyes shut and stepped out from behind the lockers. A blonde and a brunette were sitting together on the benches and were looking at her with identical puzzled looks.

"Were you listening to us?" the blonde asked. "Not intentionally," (Y/N) replied, hoping she didn't sound too awkward. "So what do you think?" the brunette. "Kiss marry kill - Thor, Iron Man, and Spiderman."

(Y/N) gave a small smile. "I don't think I'd do any of those things with Iron Man. But... I might kiss Spiderman if circumstances allowed." The blonde shook her head. "Fine, but I stand by my choice. Thor is the hottest Avenger. I'm Betty, by the way," she added. "This is my friend Liz."

"Hi," (Y/N) said with a classic Stark smile. "Ok, I'm going to change."

"Meet us out front, ok?" Liz smiled. With that, the two left, leaving (Y/N) to finally let go of her suppressed laughter.

When the girl finally exited the changing rooms, she was pleased to see both Peter and Ned sitting on the bleachers. She hurried to meet them, an inviting smile gracing her face.

"Oh-h, boy," Peter whispered as he saw her arrive. "This is your chance!" Ned hissed. "Tell her you have a crush on her!"

"I'm not going to tell her I have a crush on her-"

"So it's true?" Ned gasped, his eyes widening. "You do have a crush on her!"

"Ned, seriously, shut u- hey, (Y/N)!" he broke off suddenly as he saw the girl approaching them. "Hey, guys. So, I just met these girls who were playing kiss marry kill with Thor, my dad, of all people, and you, Peter. Well, Spiderman, really, but you know."

Ned smirked. "Oh, really? That's - that's an interesting question, (Y/N). So, who would you kiss? Spiderman or Thor?" (Y/N) went red, but before she had a chance to answer, someone behind her wolf-whistled.

She turned, her eyes narrowed, not surprised at all by who she saw. Flash Thompson with the stupidest smirk on his smug face. "So, you're the new girl?"

"If you can call someone who's been here for two weeks new," (Y/N) replied, a calculating look on her face as she stood to face the boy. She caught the slight confused frown on Flash's face. She smirked. He wasn't used to girls saying things like that to him. He was making himself way too obvious.

"What's your name, beautiful?" Flash asked, the smug look returning to his face. Okay. "Number one, do not call me beautiful, even though I'd like to think I am, thank you very much. Number two, you'll know my name soon enough. And number three, I would like you to apologize to me and my friends for that stunt you pulled this morning."

Nobody had been expecting that. Those nearby who had heard what the girl had said were listening, open-mouthed. Flash's jaw had dropped.

"Um..." he said, seemingly unable to form a single thought. Not that he seemed capable of doing so on a regular basis.

At that point, there came a shout. "Stark! You got the schedule change?" She looked past Flash's paling face to Coach Wilson, who was just entering the gym. "Yes, thank you, Coach Wilson!" she called, making sure everyone could hear her. She looked at Flash again and said, "Yeah, I'm (Y/N) Stark. Tony Stark's daughter and heir of Stark Industries. Glad to make your acquaintance."

She was about to turn away, when Flash grabbed her arm. "So what happened to your mom, (Y/N) Stark?" he asked.

The girl felt her face pale.

(Ahh Part 4 is finally out now!

[finelinevogue]

the fact that Y/N has post natal depression Is somewhat refreshing idk I just don't see it talked about much on here and if it is it's like Hella angsty and the partner doesn't understand what it is but I was wondering if u could touch on it a bit more cause it's something I'm really scared about happening to me and I just want harry to hold me and tell me it's going be okay 😚😚😚😚

P.s. if u don't wanna it's understandable

anon: can u write about harry helping y/n through her ppd maybe like the 3rd time was so bad that h decide that he won’t be having more children

so this was requested twice so i would love to be able to write this for you both, hope this is okay - mind it’s heavily angsty!;

tw: vomiting, ppd and od

oli - 4, felix - 3, belle - 12 weeks

Motherhood was really fucking hard.

The birth of your newly born daughter, Isabella, had really taken a back pedal on your mental health. You had suffered with post natal depression after the birth of your two sons, but nothing as bad as this.

It had hit you around the 7 week mark after giving birth. The pregnancy itself was okay, even though she was slightly premature, but it was after you’d taken her home that it’d all spiralled downhill. It started with complications with her breastfeeding - like she was rejecting the milk that you had produced. It hurt to see her reject you and your body, finding more comfort in drinking from a pre-made milk bottle as her dad rocked her to sleep. You recall the evening so clearly and felt like an utter failure as you watched her drink a bottle of formula for the first time.

“Ssh ssh,” Harry cooed to your 7 week old daughter as he rocked her in his arms on the rocking chair in her nursery. She was whining because she was hungry, but the problem was that she wasn’t accepting your milk. She hadn’t been accepting your milk all day and now it was becoming dangerous for you to keep on saying ‘Oh i’ll just try later.’ Harry had told you to make a formula bottle for her. “Mummy’s coming.”

As much as you didn’t want to, you were walking back to the nursery with a warm bottle in your hands. You’d tested it on your hand to make sure it wasn’t too hot and then taken a sip to taste it, out of jealousy, and you thought that it didn’t taste any different to you. Then again you’re not a 7 week old human whose only date is milk.

“Look here’s mummy with your yummy milk, okay? Look Belles!” Harry cooed at his darling angel and you only wished he wasn’t as happy for her as he was.

“Yeah.” You spoke softly, handing him the bottle and standing nearby, part of you hoping that she would reject this too and she wasn’t just rejecting you.

But no, she drank the formula like it was her last meal.

“Such a sweet girl, aren’t you?” Harry praised her, watching her in awe as she kept on drinking the formula. Watching as she was drinking to become the strong girl you knew she’d become. It just hurt that it wasn’t you that could help her become that.

You felt powerless. Worthless, even. The one thing that you had carried the weight of your breasts around to do and you couldn’t even do it. Your nipples were so sore and your breasts ached so badly and it was all for nothing. Perhaps it was punishment for being such a bad mum. Perhaps you’d never been good enough for this job and it was your bodies way of shutting you down forever. You wouldn’t need the ability to produce milk anymore, because you weren’t worth the title of becoming one again. You wanted to be happy for your little one, seeing her happy but all you felt was rejection and sadness. She didn’t think you were good enough to be her mum and that really hurt.

Along with the breastmilk problem, Belle also became very stubborn when you wanted to change her nappy. Anytime you tried to change and help her she put up a fuss, kicking her legs and sometimes she would bite or hit you away. It was just a reminder that you weren’t a good enough mum for her and that she didn’t feel safe enough around you. She didn’t find comfort in your presence and she was so fussy about what you did around her. With Harry, though, she was an angel. She loved him so much and obviously he made her feel so loved and safe - something you’d clearly never be able to give her.

There was also the chores of being a mother to your other two sons too. Oli and Felix were old enough to understand that they had a baby sister, but they weren’t old enough to understand how miserable you were. Harry wasn’t even able to figure it out yet. You tried your best to put on your bravest face, knowing that your family needed you to be strong but the truth was that you were crumbling on the inside. You were feeling less and less like yourself and you were waiting for the moment when you’d completely fall apart. Nothing felt right anymore. Everything was just numb.

“You two boys okay?”

You walked into the children’s playroom see that they were sat at the little table colouring in. Felix’s little legs dangled slightly, whereas Oli’s legs touched the floor and it made your heart swell at how big they were both getting.

“Yep!” Oli cheered, scribbling with his left hand as his tiny tongue stuck out from his lips as he concentrated - a habit passed onto him from his father.

“What are you both drawing?” You asked, coming over and kneeling on the floor beside them and having a peek at their drawings.

“We’re colouring for daddy.” Felix answered, some of the words not being pronounced properly due to his young lisp and lack of being taught how to say things correctly yet.

His words stung though. You appreciated that he was only a toddler and he meant nothing evil or malicious by it, but it hurt to think that maybe, just maybe, your sons were doing this for their dad because he did so much more for them than you did. Of course you tried to be the best mum you could, but maybe you weren’t doing enough. Maybe you weren’t meant to be a mum after all, or at least not a good one.

“O-oh,” you tried to hold back the tears in your eyes because your boys looked so proud at their artwork - and you should be too. “Tell me about them then, my loves.”

Oli went first, “So this is me and this is Oli and this is dad. It’s us playing football like we did the other day, mummy.” He pointed out to each of the figures, some looking actually quite terrifying but you’d never have the heart to tell him that. The figures were all holding hands though and it hurt to think that you weren’t a part of that.

“Oh that’s so good Ols!” you rubbed his head of hair and then turned to Felix’s, “What about you Fix?”

“I drew daddy as the best.” He pointed to a trophy that the figure - more like a stick-man-slenderman - was holding, which was decorated with the award of ‘my hero’.

“I told him to write hero, mummy.” Oli added, and you smiled at both of them.

“Well done. Good job both of you. Daddy will love these!” You only wished that they would draw something for you. You hated to think that you were being petty, but honestly you just wanted to feel loved. “Shall I go cut up some apple for a snack, hey?” You asked, trying to feel useful.

“Daddy is making us smoothies!” Felix answered and you had to stand up, up and away from their heigh, so they didn’t catch the tears in your eyes.

“Okay! Don’t forget to give him those pictures - he’ll love those.” You praised them and they both giggled to each other.

The sight of your sons laughing should’ve made you so happy, but it only reminded you that you weren’t the source of their happiness. You weren’t on their mind enough to be their inspiration for drawings. You definitely weren’t their hero. You were just a woman to them, not a mum. You wanted to be so much more but it was clear that they didn’t need you. They were loved by their dad and each other, not in need of your heart.

Eventually Belle settled down and was sleeping better through the night, leaving you and Harry to much more peaceful nights sleep. Well, just Harry.

You had found it near impossible to get to sleep now. You lay awake at night wondering when Belle would next wake up, wondering when she’d next need you. Harry was always quick out of bed though, even if he actually was sleeping, to help her ordering you to stay in bed and rest yourself. You couldn’t help feel like he was telling you to stay put because he knew you wouldn’t be able to do your job properly - and you started to believe him.

You’d found yourself getting jealous of those that could get to sleep. When you were walking down the road you’d judge a person by how much sleep they looked like they got last night. You definitely looked like you only had 2 hours - even when you’d only had 37 minutes but who’s counting? Your dark circles were heavily noticeable, but no one cared enough to ask. Even Harry stayed clear of you more and more often; spending more time with the kids than you and sleeping on his side of the bed instead of yours at nighttime.

There had been one evening where you had been so restless that Harry had gotten so frustrated and left the room, with a blanket and a pillow, and slept on the couch. You’d never felt so much like a burden than that night. Your family was rejecting you and you felt like a failure. You were a success at failing in everything. The meals you cooked went half eaten by everyone because you would’ve forgotten to add a key ingredient. The children preferred to spend more time playing with their dad because you weren’t energised enough to play the games they wanted to. Your daughter still rejected your milk. It was all too much and you just wanted one nights peace for it to change.

Last night had been that night.

Fuck these were so addicting. You were finally getting the sleep that you so badly craved, only with the help of tablets.

You wanted the sleep because that was the one place you could escape to. You needed that escape to help you get out of bed the next morning. Life was too hard for you to not dream, and without dreaming you didn’t want life.

It started off with taking one every night before bed, but then they stopped working again, so you started taking two, then three. Four was obviously where your body hit its limit.

“Mummy? Can you come tuck me in please?” Oli asked, little toy giraffe in hand and shaking you in hopes of waking you up to send him peacefully off to sleep.

You’d gone to bed a bit earlier tonight, lying saying that you were extremely exhausted. Harry said he would be able to handle things and that’s when you excitedly ran upstairs to take your pills; 4 of them. You’d made it into your bed, feeling slightly drowsy after completing your nighttime routine, but then you started to feel unwell and really ill. Before you’d passed out you’d stuck your fingers down your throat in hopes to make the feeling in your stomach disappear, but it ended up you throwing up all over the bed and pass out right there.

“Mummy! Wake up!” Oli rattled your back, but you were still unresponsive.

Oli padded out of the room and down to his sisters room where he knew his dad was. Belle was being extra fussy this evening and Harry suspected it had everything to do with you retiring early. He heard Oli come into the room just as he’d gotten Belle down.

“Y’alright buddy?” Harry whispered, tip-toeing out of Belle’s room, leaving the door open slightly, and crouched down in front of him.

“No. Mummy’s not waking up.” Oli pouted, rubbing a tired fist over his eye.

“She’s probably in dreamland, bud. She was really tired today.”

“She’s really tired all of the times.”

“I know, Ol.” Because Harry did know, but he was too much of a coward to face up to the problem. The doctors had said that post natal depression can strengthen with every birthed child, but he was too blind sighted by the fact that you’d overcome the first birthed post natal depression so quickly, and was so in love with his baby girl, that he didn’t truly see how bad things had gotten. Harry had tried giving you some space, distancing himself from you in bed and spending more time with the kids so you could relax and rest up, but nothing seemed to be working. He was surprised, actually, that you’d been having better sleep recently and so was hopeful that maybe the worst of the depression was over.

Hell, was he so wrong.

“Go to bed, bud okay? I’ll be there in a minute.”

“Wake mummy up so she can give me a kiss.”

“I’ll try little man, alright?” Harry scuffed his sons hair and then watched him walk off to his room.

Harry walked into your dark room, the air smelling slightly sour, and walked around to your side of the bed. He sat down next to you sighed heavily. He needed to speak to you, no matter how tired or angry you’d be with him. He was losing you as a wife and a mother and a soulmate and a lover. He was just losing you, just as you were losing yourself and he was doing tip-toeing around the problem any longer. He was going to try and make this better. He was going to better understand how you were feeling in order to help you.

“Baby?” He spoke softly, nudging you gently, “Baby wake up.” No response. “Y/N, my love? Wake up for me darling, need to speak with you.” Normally you would’ve stirred by now but there was still nothing. “Y/N?” Harry shook you a bit more urgently now - one that would surely wake even the deepest of sleepers. “Y/N!” He shouted, perhaps a bit too loudly for the comfort of his children.

He turned you over and that’s when he knew this was very, very, bad.

Your face was pale grey and your mouth was covered in the remains of vomit, and he suddenly understood the gross sour smell from before. Your hair was greasy and stuck all in the wet sick all over your face. Your eyes were puffy from the remains of tears. You looked dead.

“No, no, no. Y/N! No you don’t.” Harry’s eyes starting weeping and he couldn’t think straight. He checked your pulse on your wrist and timed it - it was unhealthily faint. He wouldn’t be surprised if you were in your last beats of your heart. His tears and sobs were uncontrollable, but he had to be both strong for you and his children, as well as for him. “Fuck sake pull yourself together Harry. Okay, baby hold on please. Okay? You don’t get to leave me like this, you hear me? I love you so much, baby. Fuck i’m so sorry.” He gently placed your head back down on the pillow and pulled out his phone.

999

“What’s your emergency?”

“I need a-an ambulance p-please. I-I think my wife i-is dying.”

The rest of it was a blur for Harry. Him trying to wake you up. The ambulance arriving. Oli and Felix crying when they saw you being carried away on a stretcher. Belle’s deafening screams. Harry’s heart beating for the both of you.

Beep. Beep. Beep.

It was the rhythmic beeping sounds that woke you up.

Your whole body felt achey and sore, your head a pounding mess. You opened your eyes slowly, adjusting them to the light of the room. You expected to see the family photo on the wall opposite you and the white of your curtains, but you were met with a heart-monitor machine and a hospital bed instead. You looked down at your body and noticed a cannula in your arm, making you squirm because you hated stuff like that so much. Your nose had a tube running inside it too, feeding you the oxygen your lungs weren’t receiving properly.

It then dawned on you how you weren’t in the room alone. You saw a sleeping Anne and Gemma on the chairs in the far corner, with Felix and Oli tucked against their sides - Anne with Oli and Felix with Gemma. It was so cute to see them so cuddled up close. They looked peaceful. You took note of the baby pram that was at the end of your bed, most likely playing bed to your beautiful daughter. Your mind felt lost. You can’t really remember what had happened, apart from taking four of those sleeping pills. You fully remember the weight of feeling worthless and useless as both a mum and a wife, though, and that feeling was still very prominent.

Your eyes lastly landed to the side of you, where Harry was sat but also laid on your bed. The top of half of his body laid upon the bed, his head buried onto this arm deep within the bed, whilst his bottom stayed rooted to the chair. His hand was holding yours tightly, which was a sign that he wasn’t asleep. You were so scared to face him though. You had failed him, again and again and you weren’t sure whether you could be enough for him anymore. Enough for your family anymore.

You squeezed his hand three times saying ‘I love you.’

“Y/N,” He whispered so hoarsely, but you were so focused on him to even catch it. He looked ruined, and you’d done that to him. His eyes were dark and tired, but also red and puffy from where he’d been crying. His hair was a mess and you could tell it hadn’t been washed in a while. How long had you been out for? You felt rested in your sleep, but not in your mind or your heart.

“I—” Your breathe got caught in your throat, but you persevered to finish your words. He deserved to here them. “I’m sorry.” You were whispering so you didn’t disturb anyone else in the room.

“No, stop it. I’m sorry baby.”

“Harry don’t, you don’t have anyt—”

“Stop yes I do I—”

“Harry please you don’t owe—”

“Y/N listen!” He cut the little volley-conversation and ordered you to just stop. You started crying when you saw that he was too. “Whatever you’re going to say, don’t. Whatever you’re thinking, stop it right now. Because I love you. Fuck, I do. I love you so much that when I found you unconscious in a pile of your own sick thinking you were dead, my only thought was that I wished it were me instead”.

“Harry, you don’t mean—”

“My god Y/N! You don’t get it, do you? I would do anything to switch places with you right now. I would suffer a thousand times over if it meant you were okay. I’d suffer in hell for you. Nobody else but you has ever made me feel like this. I married you because I love you and I want to wake up next to you every day of my beating hearts life. I chose to have children with you, because I knew how great of a mum you’d be and what beautiful people you’d help bring up into the world—”

“But i’m not.” You cut Harry short, trying to pull your hand away from him but he didn’t let you - only tightening his grip and pulling himself closer towards you. He was so close you could kiss him.

“Not what?” He asked, although he already knew the answer. You’d both had this conversation before, but you were both tired of it and were ready for it to be your last now.

“A good mum. I’m- i’m not a good mum or wife, Harry and i’m sorry.”

“I told you not say it and stop thinking it, because you’re completely wrong Y/N. You’re a good mother and a good wife, because you are a good person.”

“But i’m not great.” You whimpered, thinking back to the drawings your Oli and Felix had done. “I’m not the best.”

“But you don’t have to be, baby. You see our beautiful, healthy, happy and safe babies over there?” Harry turned to look at them, love in his eyes as in yours. “They wouldn’t be all those things, no matter how you feel about yourself, without you. I could never have brought them up to be half the people they are without you by my side, the way you make me a better person. You claim you don’t got this, but baby you’re already doing it and have been doing it for 5 years with our children and so much longer with me.”

“I’m just so fucked up Harry.” Your head tilted back on the pillow as you got heavily emotional over the situation.

Harry shook his head and moved his hand to cup the back of your neck, moving your head forwards until it met his. The touch of his skin against yours, no matter where and how small, made you feel alive and you’d missed him and that feeling so much. You missed loving him so much.

“Listen to me.” He ordered, keeping you still. “You are strong and you are brave Y/N Styles. No matter what you tell yourself I will be here every goddamn day of my life, if I have to, to remind you that you are worth more than your fucking weight in gold. You are my heart. You are my soul and the mother to my greatest achievements. I know they are yours too, just as I know I am your heart.

“You are.” You whispered so quietly under your breathe, but Harrys heart warmed when he caught you saying it. He knew though.

“Just let me love you. Let me be there for you. If you want medication then let’s do it, and i’ll be there for every step of the way. If you want to go to a rehabilitation centre for a bit, that’s okay we can—”

You shook your head and licked the tears away from your face. You were both such tearful messes, but the love between you was undeniable. “No, no please, no.”

“Okay, okay, love. We won’t. See, you’re okay. I promise, you’re okay. Stay with me, yeah? I’ll love you and keep you safe, just as you will me.”

“Promise.” You told him sincerely. He brought his lips to yours with that single word. He was so proud of your for being so brave and strong. He wishes he was half the person you were. His lips conveyed those thoughts of his and you could taste the love and passion burning through his heart and out on to his lips. He tasted like home. z he was home. Your lips smacked together messily, but you didn’t care because you loved each other too much and had kissed each other even more. Once you pulled back he stayed close to you, smiling at you with such awe. “I think.. I think I want to try medication please.”

Harry didn’t say ‘okay’ or ‘sure thing’, no. He said four words that meant more to you in that moment that any others in the universe. More than saying ‘I love you.’ Words that reminded you that not everything is okay and that sucks really bad, but you’re doing your best to get through it. It was a reminder that you had so many people who loved you and cared for you. It was a gun at the starting line symbolising that the journey ahead wasn’t going to be easy, but worth it.

“I’m proud of you.”

[helpimhyperfixating]

Captive Together - Mer!Jotaro x Mer!Reader P1

Okay, fair warning, this oneshot is LONG. Like, really really long. I divided it into 4 parts but still every chapter is a monster. I edited it best I could, but when it takes a whole day to do so, you can get tired and unattentive, lol. This whole thing got out of hand and it is weird, but I like it. With that out of the way, enjoy some Mer!Joot 😌

Part 1  |  Part 2  |  Part 3  |  Part 4

Word Count: 8531

Opening your eyes, you winced a little at the stinging jab of pain that shot through your abdomen. With sluggish movements, you drifted forward until you could feel your hand hit glass. 

Right. You were in that human facility...

How did you end up in this mess again?

- - - -

“Quick! Go! Go!!” Your voice was urgent and a little panicked, scaring the two pups in front of you to do as you asked. They didn’t know who you were, where you came from, and if you were even able to be truly trusted, but the looming shadow closing in on your location and the terrifying rumble and roar of - what they thought was - a shark was enough to spur them into doing whatever you said.

You had just been swimming by, travelling from place to place looking for a place to live, maybe even a pod who’d accept you. And that was when you spotted the two pups, all by themselves and playing with the sand on the ocean floor, no adults in sight.

Seeing how big and mischievous their grins were, you quickly realised they had most likely snuck away from their pod; bringing back some memories from when you had done that yourself. 

With a good-natured sigh, you started to swim over, deciding to take them back to their pod before something would happen.

“Hey, you two.” You clicked out as you approached them calmly, a warm smile on your face. Upon the sound of a voice, the two - they couldn’t have been older than 1,5 years - shot their heads up, eyes comically widening. “What’re you playing?” You asked as you bridged the remaining gap, letting yourself float down to sit on the seabed close to them about two meters away; giving them a little bit of space yet also sitting close enough, to show them you meant no harm.

“We’ve never seen this kind of sand before.” The pup with a pretty, dark blue tail and impressive hairdo spoke up a little meekly and your smile widened just a little bit more at the sweet answer, making both kids relax a bit.

“So you decided to come out here and play in it?”

“Mhm!” The other pup, with a darker grey tail and two markings running crossed down his face, hummed happily, his voice sounding gruff as if he had spent a week in the Red Sea, even at his young age.

“Soo, you didn’t sneakily sneak away from your pod and parents to go exploring the big blue and happened to stumble across this seabed with sand you hadn’t seen before, right?” You questioned cheekily, leaning your chin in your hand as you raised a teasing eyebrow.

Both their eyes widened a bit and you chuckled while the pup with the hairdo curled in a bit on himself. “Are we in trouble?” 

“Not with me, no.” You smiled, making him come out of his shell a bit again. “With your parents however? I can’t say.” Now they were both making themselves small, guilty looks on their faces. “C’mon, I’m sure it will be fine.” You reassured them as you pushed yourself off the seabed, swimming over to the two pups until you were in right by them and placing a hand on either of their backs. “It’s best to get you back to your pod now though.”

“O-Okay.”

You hummed a little and pushed them gently to start swimming, one on either side of you. You looked between them both, seeing the anxious looks on their faces and decided to try and distract them a bit as you chaperoned them back. You happened to have noticed a pod took up residence in this area and these two smelled like they came from it, so you knew where to go. You also knew that pod was quite a ways away so you had to find a way to fill the time anyways.

“So, what are your names?”

“I-I’m Josuke, that’s Okuyasu.”

You hummed a little, giving them both another smile. “So, how long ago did you sneak out?”

“Uh, the sun was about there.” Josuke pointed up to where the sun had stood in the sky when they left, filtering through the surface of the water at an angle that told you they snuck out about an hour ago.

“Hm, well, maybe no one in your pod has noticed your absence yet and I can help you two sneak back in!” You started in a secretive voice, making both pups perk up. Okuyasu drifted a little closer to you and grabbed your hand, Josuke seeing and doing the same on your other side, nodding happily at you.

To be honest, you highly doubted no one had noticed their absence, but swimming with two anxious pups was something you would rather avoid. Not only because you feared your lack of experience would make you unable to handle it, but also because anxious pups meant slow pups, and matching their pace when they were anxiously swimming in dread for what was to come was about the most nail biting experience one could have.

“So, why did you swim out so far th-“ whatever you were going to ask was interrupted when your ears picked up on the distant sounds of a motorboat. 

Your eyes widening in alarm, the two pups noticed the warning signals you automatically gave off and soon picked up on the noise as well, seeing as the boat was speeding closer very fast. 

Now, humans were aware of the existence of Mer, but this was supposed to be a protected area. So if there were humans here, especially those with the loud motors? That could only mean bad news.

“Quick! Go! Go!!” You wrenched your hands from their grips before starting to push on their backs, trying to urge them to go.

Okuyasu let a feared whine escape from his throat while Josuke immediately employed the tactic he had been taught to use whenever in danger: call out.

“Shark! Shark!” He trilled out in a panic, the trills and clicks of his voice carrying a lot further through the water than at his normal pitch and volume, soon joined by Okuyasu in the same fashion as he remembered what he was supposed to do.

While you were glad they had their security systems in order, you knew how clever humans were, especially those who went against the rules set in place, and you feared that they might hear the two pups.

“Ssh, ssh, I’ll keep you safe from the shark! Let’s hide between those rocks, come on!!” You managed to grab both their little hands again and frantically dragged them along with you as you swam full speed towards the rocks that sat about forty meters away, both Josuke and Okuyasu too shocked by the sudden speed they were being pulled along with to keep shouting warnings in panic.

It was dangerous to get to the rocks. The boat was almost right above you by now and to get to safety, you had to swim with the pups underneath the belly of the thing. The water was crystal clear today and the chances of being seen were high.

Safety for the pups was your one and only priority though and so you gunned it.

With an incredible speed, you shot through the water, making full use of your tail as you dragged the poor kids with you, them trying their best to flap their tails and help swim - although it was mainly for decoration and show by now.

Forty meters,

Thirty five,

Thirty,

You were now swimming directly underneath the boat and you tilted your head, keeping a wary eye on the thing as you saw it suddenly stop and rock, presumably from movement from the humans on top.

Twenty five,

A shape on the boat, barely able to be made out through the distortion of the water, tipped you off to the incoming danger and you immediately pulled Josuke and Okuyasu in, pushing them forward with all your might right before a sharp and searing pain shot past your left side.

From the boat, someone had thrown a harpoon down, the speed and angle serving to graze your side, creating a nasty cut on your waist that ran from there, diagonally over part of your stomach before the thing embedded itself in the sea floor.

A sharp and searing pain came in waves but you refrained from calling out, only hissing through your teeth with a small grunt before you shook your head, ignoring it for now as you saw a rope was attached to the end of the sharp stick. It was slowly wrenched free from the sand and you wasted no time in shooting past it, scooping Okuyasu and Josuke up in your arms as you rushed past them, seeing as they were clinging onto each other in shock as they saw you being hit.

“You’re bleeding!” 

“It’s okay!” You chirped back over the rush of water coming past as you tried to swim as fast as possible with the pain, leaving a trail of blood behind as you went.

Fifteen,

Ten,

Five,

“Okay, hide behind those rocks and stay there no matter what happens okay? Don’t come out until someone from your pod comes and gets you, do you understand?!” You shook them both a little, maybe not being the best course of action but you had to make your point clear.

“O-Okay!”

“Don’t make a sound either!” You called back over your shoulder as you started swimming away, secretly looking to see if they were well hidden and stayed put as you asked them to. You saw the both of them look at you with fear and anxiousness, peeking from behind the rocks, and sent them the last best reassuring smile you could muster before turning to look forward again and booking it. You were gonna save those pups if it cost you your damn life.

- - - -

Your fuzzy memory finally began to clear up a bit and you remembered how another boat came and chased the hunter’s one away. You had led the hunter’s boat away from the pups but got trapped in a cove, only for the new boat with science humans to come to your aid.

Upon seeing your injury, they got very concerned and offered to take you with them so they could treat you and help you.

Despite their honeyed words and friendly appearance though, there was one blaring warning signal. These humans that were claiming to trying to ‘help you’, smelled exactly like the ones from the boat that had injured you. Which meant these people had interacted; and not just in passing or a small falling out, no they spent a while with each other to have the scent rub off that heavily. 

In other words, these were no friends to you.

Despite knowing this, you had agreed to their offer. Those pups were still nearby, what could you have done? Maybe if they took you along they’d be satisfied, and never realise there were more Mer nearby. And so you allowed them to take you.

-

“Good news! Today the bandages come off and we are planning to transport you to a bigger tank while you further recover!” One of the humans you had come to see a little more often in your past two days in this tiny tank approached, that easily recognisable false smile on his face. Whenever he approached like that, there was something else behind it. Yet, you pretended to not notice, perking up in happiness and sloshing around in your tank like an excited puppy despite the pain that brought.

“For me?” You asked. Your human English was a little rusty and sounded somewhat garbled, which was no surprise given how you had to use completely different parts of your vocal cords to speak it, but at least it was understandable.

“Yes!” He grinned before stepping even closer. “And! Inside there is a surprise! Around the same time as we found you, we found another Mer, stuck in a fishing net. They’re in the tank you will be transferred to today!” He sounded genuinely happy this time and you realised with a bit of horror he probably saw it all as a big experiment. Most likely wanting to see how two of the same species reacted upon meeting. “It’s that one over there!” He pointed behind himself to a large tank on the opposite end of the large room.

You had noticed this tank almost immediately when you first got to this facility. After all, why were you stuffed into a tiny tank that was more fitted to fit an octopus rather than the large tank that was available right there? But if it housed another Mer then that was logical. Probably a bigger Mer than you as well.

You had seen the scientists hover around it but you never saw any creature inside when you looked at it.

Would it be a male or female waiting for you in there? Given the man’s excitement however, you had a hunch. All you could say was you hoped they hadn’t been injured by the humans to bring in like you were.

- - - -

You spent the rest of the day just trying everything in your power to annoy the ever living fuck out of the scientists around.

You were in a small glass tank, barely big enough to let you stretch your tail out fully and with an open top, allowing you to communicate.

Sloshing around and making water spill over the tank was one of your favourite things to do, your goal to make the papers in the hands of the scientists wet or to make them slip and slam a few teeth out on the floor. If they glare at you, you just acted like it was completely involuntary, having pain in your injury, or the need to move being the cause of you sloshing and splashing so much.

Your next method of annoying scientists was: throwing the small ball they had given you directly to their heads. It was a small yellow thing, apparently filled with air so that it would float on the water. And just the perfect size to lob at someone’s head.

Of course, if they turned around angry, ball in hand, you’d act as if it was all a game. All a game your dumb and simple mind could come up with. And so the scientists just let it happen, picking up the ball and begrudgingly returning it to you every time so you wouldn’t start sadly whining like some puppy.

And that was exactly what your goal was; to convince them you were no smarter than a seal.

Of course, you had the ability of speech, but you intentionally kept your vocabulary in the low. Talking a bit like a pup, with missing or incorrectly pronounced words while the rest of your behaviour mirrored it.

You smiled a lot, indulging the scientists in questions about Mer life that you answered ‘as best you could’ while in reality you were stringing lie after lie after lie. You pretended to be their friend, just like they did to you. What comes around, gets around, after all.

Sometimes though, when you were talking to the humans, you felt as if there were eyes on you. And not the scientist eyes or the camera eyes, but angrier ones.

-

As the morning bled into noon, you noticed how warily the scientists were being around the big tank. It was open at the top same as yours and reached until about the human’s midriff, but the rest of the tank disappeared into the floor for it was probably a lot deeper than it seemed to you if there was another Mer in there that you’d never even seen before.

But, noticing how hesitant the humans were to stick their head over the glass and look down, you figured you’d test them a little. 

No one was really paying attention to- or around you, so you picked up your little yellow ball - the only entertainment you had - and tested its weight a few times before chucking it so hard and so far that it soared over everyone’s heads and plopped right in the bigger tank.

As it landed, you cheered as if it had been your childish goal all along before expectantly looking at the humans. They were, after all, expected to bring it back to you.

Much to your internal delight, you watched how the humans looked back at you in horror and disbelief. It all but confirmed your suspicions that whoever was in there, was very much not happy. And different from you, they decided to go the aggressive route.

When none of the scientists made a move to retrieve your ball for you, you started to make a little whining noise in the back of your throat, making puppy eyes and starting to look all sad.

If the Mer in there indeed went the aggressive route, that meant that your plan was still in full swing. For, if they only exuded aggression, the scientists wouldn’t necessarily see many signs of higher intelligence. They would most likely chock it up to animal instinct instead of genuine anger. Which meant you could continue playing as dumb as you liked without them getting suspicious.

“It’s okay! I’ll, uh... go get it for you!” One of the scientists spoke up towards you and you perked up a little, gripping the edge of your tank and pushing up a bit to mock excitement.

Curiously, you watched as he went to grab a long net on a stick. Was it not within arms reach? 

You watched as he walked back over to the tank and warily started inching the pole towards the ball. The entire thing shook with nervousness and you watched in awe as suddenly, out of nowhere, a large Mer shot up, slashing through the invading item and breaking it clean in half before disappearing below the floor again in a flash.

The scientist screamed in fear as the pole got cut clean through, the net falling down into the water before sinking, while one of the other humans went to comfort the scared one.

That was the best thing you had seen in all your time being here.

“What has been said about unauthorised interactment with the large tank?!” A large booming voice suddenly sounded from the door the humans constantly walked in and out of and you, together with all the scientists, turned your heads towards it.

“S-She threw her ball in there, I was just trying to get it back like protocol says!”

“She can go get it herself. We’re transferring her right now.”

All eyes turned to you with that and you shrunk a little, lowering yourself into the water until only your eyes shyly peeked out. Somehow you had a bad feeling about this.

- - - - 

Bad, bad, bad, bad, bad, bad, bad! BAD!

You were dangling in mid air on a crane or contraption, some sort of harness put around you and painfully rubbing against your wound. Mers healed faster than humans but your wound was still very much present and open and painful. Did they completely forget you had that or something?? They were even supposed to take off the bandaging today and they didn’t! Although right now it was your only protection from excruciating pain.

Your tail barely had any support and was basically dangling in mid-air, held up only by the fact and grace of being attached to you and your attempt of using your abdominal muscles to keep it steady. Unfortunately for you, that was where your wound was as well, so WAHEY!

You were cursing up a storm as the crane moved you across the room, hovering over the floor as if you were flying. To the scientists, it just sounded like a bunch of panicked clicks and trills, but for you, you were using language so colourful, it would make anyone blush.

Water dripped from you like stalactites in a wet cave and the only satisfaction you had in this moment was that it would make the floor a little slippery for the scientists, hopefully with at least one falling on their face. After what seemed like an excruciatingly long time but was only a few minutes, you were dangling over the larger tank. 

Your knuckles were white as you gripped onto the harness holding you up. You looked down and noticed how big it actually was. As you tried to gauge the depth from above the water however, the support holding you up clicked loose and you fell down into the tank, harness and all.

Thankfully, you managed to angle yourself to dive in at least a little gracefully instead of just belly flop in - which would be very bad from that height and with your injury.

As you fell into the water you had your arms protectively shielded over your head and your eyes screwed shut, but now you hesitantly blinked them open, bringing your arms down as you sunk down a tiny bit more before stopping.

Looking to your right, you were surprised to see several scientists looking through the glass. Apparently there was a room a floor lower which gave them perfect view of the big tank and the happenings inside it. They all had clipboards and notes and whatever, ready to record and write down everything that was about to happen.

That was the last thought you could really give it, for you suddenly saw something large and fast move from the bottom of the tank, all the way up to you.

Curling in on yourself on instinct, you looked up only to be met by one of the biggest and most intimidating Mer you had ever seen. His torso was in proportion to you but his tail was absolutely massive, almost twice the size of yours. It was strong and powerful looking, sleek black and probably about four or four and a half meters in length while his torso himself was impressive as well, muscle and raw power screaming from every inch of him.

How in the fuck were those scientists ever able to capture him?

His face was set in a glare and you instantly averted your eyes, displaying submissiveness as you turned your head and bowed it a little.

Now, you had wanted to display submissive behaviour from the beginning, just to keep your act up, no matter what kind of Mer was in here, but when you opened your mouth to try and talk and he growled in warning, you immediately slammed it shut. This shark Mer made it very easy. 

After a few more seconds of him glowering at you, you opted for safety and abruptly turned around, swimming down as fast as you could to the bottom of this 20-meter deep tank and shooting into the massive skull that sat there. You had to struggle to fit through the eye, the harness still on you hooking against it and hindering you even more, but with some squeezing and manoeuvring, you managed to get inside.

Looking out of one of the eyes, you saw he hadn’t really moved but was still glaring at you before letting out a ‘Tch’ and casually turning to the side, languidly swimming away and down to the corner opposite of the one you were in. 

There was a thick, white, concrete column in the middle of the tank, impeding your vision of him as he disappeared behind it.

Letting out the breath you were holding, you closed your eyes for a second before inhaling the water around you. It felt much cleaner and more crisp than the stuffy tank you had been forced to sit in, though the scent of the other Mer was very present as well. 

Looking down at yourself, you hissed a little and cursed out the humans as you grabbed hold of the harness and lifted it as far away from the wound on your side and stomach as possible. 

The skull you were in provided cover yes, but it was also half buried in sand and you barely had any room to move or even breathe, let alone try to get that damn harness off. Going out while the shark Mer was around and wary of you seemed like a bad idea however so you just stayed put, opting to wait until night before getting out and trying to get the damn thing off.

So, in the time you were waiting, you decided to try and figure out what the fuck kind of skull you were in. It was slanted and half buried in sand, elongated jaw with big round eye sockets. It sure as hell wasn’t any animal you knew of. You even started doubting if it was a real animal at all. When you touched it it definitely didn’t feel like bone at least.

Several hours passed like that and you finally peeked your head out the eyehole again. 

The tank itself was not too bad. The bottom was filled with sand and rocks, water plants and seaweed and such sticking out and growing from it, making it look rather natural. 

With some effort, you squeezed yourself out of the eyehole again, hissing as you scraped your wound before settling on the sand right in front of the skull and starting to wriggle and tug at the harness.

Why did the humans do it like this? Weren’t they supposed to take it off? Or were they so afraid of your new tank-mate that they just decided ‘fuck it, you’re on your own’?

Aggravated, you attempted to pull it over your head. Unsuccessful. 

You tried to unclasp it. The clasps are at the back where you can’t reach. Unsuccessful.

You attempted to pull it apart. You are not strong enough. Unsuccessful. 

By now you were running out of options and just violently tugging at the constricting thing. It sat over your gills on your neck, making it hard to breathe - though that didn’t stop you from spitting every curse in the book at the scientists who were undoubtedly still watching, even if the glass where they stood earlier was as dark as the night. 

A flutter of the water suddenly reached your ears and you snapped your head up to see the shark Mer quickly swimming towards you, angry and with a murderous look in his eye. 

Under optimal circumstances you would have hidden somewhere he couldn’t fit, like the skull. Unfortunately for you, you were wearing a harness and also wouldn’t be able to get inside fast enough. 

With not many options left, you darted to the left, quickly swimming away. Taking a glance back, you gasped when you saw he was in hot pursuit. With his larger tail he was quickly gaining but you shot to the side, cutting the corner around the concrete pillar in the middle as much as possible.

Looking to the left briefly, you spotted a corner where the sand was more tailored than everywhere else, a large indent where a body had been resting. 

That was all the time you got to look at it however, since you were already rounding the pillar again to show the skull you had been hiding in. 

Right now, you cursed yourself for darting. There was no way you could outswim him. You should have just rushed into the skull back there or stayed still, hoping he wouldn’t tear you apart. Now, all you could do was try to get back in the skull.

That was a vain hope however, as he had already caught up with you. 

Your blood froze as his right arm curled around your waist, ready to grab. Yet before he did, he hesitated. Instead, he allowed you to slip away a bit further before clamping his arm around your tail, tightly grabbing hold there as he forcefully stopped your momentum and yanked you back, grabbing your shoulders with both hands once in range.

In one smooth motion, he slammed you shoulders first into the concrete pillar before removing one hand and using the claws on it to rip straight through the harness still stuck on you. 

“Stop disturbing the water with your thrashing and sleep!” He growled out, a threatening undertone in his voice while his face was so close to yours.

You were breathing fast and staring back with wide eyes but it seemed he wanted an answer before he backed off so you nodded. 

Seemingly content with that, he rudely shoved you aside before lazily swimming away, flicking his hand to get rid of some excess fabric of the harness, his tail swishing side to side as he disappeared behind the pillar again to the corner he seemed to have taken up residence in, not looking back once.

You blinked a few times, looking at where he disappeared for some seconds before you swam up, swimming out of the harness with as little tail motion as possible.

Your breathing finally levelled and you turned back around, grabbing the remains of the harness and swimming over to the skull, draping the destroyed thing over a lip on the outside before squeezing into the eye. 

- - - -

Waking from your slumber, you got to work digging. 

You had a hunch this skull was going to be your home for the time being, so you decided to make a better way of entering and exiting. Digging through the sand laying in the mouth of the skull, you followed the elongated jaw and dug until you made a nice little opening that you wouldn’t have to squeeze through.

While you were digging, you noticed the other Mer swimming around. He avoided your little hovel but otherwise would not sit still. Making laps, checking the corners, running his hand along the wall of the tank as if testing it. 

Everything pointed to him wanting to get out of here, just as much as you did.

For now, you decided to keep staying out of his way though.

Right as you exited your skull, you were met with the powerful and intimidating form of the merman. There goes your plan. “What’re you doing?” He snapped at you almost, his tone curt and to the point.

You were still half inside but decided to just stay there like that, looking up at him. “I’m making an easier and less painful entrance.” You explained, motioning to the blood stained bandage on your side. It was designed to be worn under water but even so you doubted it was doing much good.

“Well, be more quiet, you’re making too much noise.” He growled before turning around, nearly hitting you with his tail fin as he went.

You were about one second away from giving him a well earned tap on said tail fin, but managed to refrain yourself at the last second.

“Wait.” You called out after him and he surprisingly enough stopped, looking back at you over his shoulder while you got out of the skull fully. “What’s your name?”

“...” 

He didn’t say anything for a second, just looking intently at you for a second, almost as if he was searching for something. Whatever he found he must have been satisfied with though.

“Jotaro.” 

A smile appeared on your face at his answer and that piqued his interest. For, when he had been watching you in the small tank opposite the room, you had smiled so much whenever the scientists interacted with you, and it had annoyed him to the point of making his blood boil. But now? Up close? He could see this was the first genuine smile you had given since arriving in this facility, even if it was timid.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Y/N. Let’s get the fuck outta here soon, okay?”

Before anything else could be said, you heard your name being called from above. You had given it to the humans but that didn’t stop the pit of disgust when you heard it. Your face contorted for just a second before you steeled yourself and twisted it into the sweet innocent look the humans were used to.

Unknown to you, Jotaro warily watched you as you did that, sharp eyes following your form as you went to the skull and grabbed the harness laying on top before swimming up to the surface.

Shyly poking your head out of the water, you darted your eyes back and forth a bit before landing on the man standing right next to the edge of the tank who had called you.

“Good morning.” He smiled and you bobbed your head a bit in greeting. “Where is the harness?” He then asked and you let your hand drift to the surface, the broken harness in hand.

The man tutted a little but then stuck out his hand, taking it from you before moving it to his other hand and using the one in the water to motion you closer, pointing at the bandaging around your waist. “We didn’t have time to take a look at that yesterday. How about now, Hm?”

God how you wanted to bite his hand. Leave that damned harness on all night and then act like nothing happened? Claiming to just want to look at and take care of your wound again? It almost made you regret trying to trick them by acting dumb and nice.

Someone else didn’t have the gripe of trying to keep up the act of being friendly however.

Out of nowhere, Jotaro breached right in front of you, immediately diving back down and pushing you down with him while he violently smashed his tail against the scientists outstretched hand.

Said scientist screamed in pain as several of the bones snapped at the powerful strike, others rushing towards him while Jotaro just left the chaos behind and pushed you further down before abruptly letting go about halfway to the bottom.

“The fuck are you doing.” He snarled and you backed up a bit.

“What do you mean?”

“Interacting with them. What is your plan to get out of here that makes you need to get all friendly with them?” 

As he said that, you tried to steady your breathing. No matter his looks or his seeming temper, his mind was clearly not to be underestimated and already proved to be very sharp. He knew you were putting up an act.

“I’m trying to make them think I am no more intelligent than like, what? A four or three year old human?” You spoke, getting a little lost in thought thinking about human ages and their behaviours during it.

“Why.”

Jotaro’s voice snapped you out of it and you focused again.

“If they expect this level of intelligence from me-“ You kept your hand flat and stationary at the level of your bellybutton. “-they will tailor security measures and such around that level of intelligence. Humans like to cut corners. If they think I don’t know how to open a door, they won’t lock it.” You continued and Jotaro had his eyes narrowed at you. “So, when I suddenly show this level of intelligence-“ You moved your hand up and hovered it at the level of your neck. “-they won’t expect it and I’ll be able to get out of here while they try to figure out what happened.

Despite seemingly getting your explanation, Jotaro seemed truly revolted by the idea of buttering up the scientists.

Without another word, a frustrated rumble tumbled from his chest and he turned to the right, starting to swim away, back to his corner. But not before stopping once more and looking back at you. “Don’t let them touch you.” With that, he continued on his way.

Bringing your arm in, you held it to your chest as you watched him swim away.

- - - - 

About two days passed and during that, your communication with Jotaro had been minimal. You two more or less avoided each other - though there wasn’t any bad blood between you two.

Just now, a big slab of tuna had been lowered and - while you had planned to just wait until Jotaro was done - he seemed to have other plans. He sliced off a chunk, letting it drift down as if he didn’t notice it falling while he himself continued with what he had. Yet subtly, you could see him look at you, releasing one low click sound from deep within his chest. A non-verbal go-ahead that many leaders of a pod used; to show that it was for you.

Sending him a quick smile, you darted over and scooped up the meat from below him right before it could touch the floor. With that, you then turned around and went to the corner opposite of him. For once, Jotaro was not in his usual corner. And you were going to make full use of it by doing what you had been meaning to for the last few days.

Putting the tuna in your mouth and just holding it there, you started plucking the gigantic seaweed that grew from the bottom, slicing it at the soil with your claws until your arms were practically completely full.

Peeking your head around the pillar, you saw Jotaro still eating and thus silently yet quickly swam over to his corner.

The sand was bunched up in a small hill on one end, a deeper and bigger indent right in front of it, showing it was where Jotaro slept every night. There were some plants growing around it, but not many. None close enough that they would be able to bend in the current and annoy him as he tried to sleep at least. That was good.

Now, you knew sleeping on the sand was fine. You had been doing it yourself, even insulated and kept a little more warm because of your protective surrounding skull. And, while the heap of sand behind the dent was meant for the same purpose - to retain some body heat - you knew from experience that plants were way better at that.

So, you started placing the seaweed leaves on the sand indentation. One by one you placed them down, layering them over comfortably until it padded the entire space.

You were happy you picked a lot because you had underestimated how big Jotaro’s bedding would be, seeing he was quite massive as well.

Next came the tricky part. Getting the leaves to stick together and stay on the sand, paired with getting rid of all the prickly edges.

Opting to make sure it stayed in place first, you curled the edges of the leaves around the edge of the sand indent and buried it firmly in the grain, making sure to tuck it in well and good so that it would not let go. With that out of the way, you began chipping away at the sharp edges. 

You worked as fast as you could, wanting to be finished before Jotaro was done eating and would return here. 

Finally done with the snipping, you ran your hand across it, satisfied that there was no uncomfortable plant membrane sticking out anymore.

Onto the last step, you started with the hardest part: weaving the plants together. Cutting small incisions in the leaves with your nails, you started interlocking those cut sections, fitting them together like a puzzle until every leaf on the entire bed was interwoven.

You were almost done when you spotted movement out of the corner of your eye. Turning your head, you saw Jotaro swimming closer, a confused yet wary look on his face. 

In the blink of an eye you were already swimming away, booking it towards your skull and shooting inside with practiced ease. You were pretty sure Jotaro couldn’t fit through the mouth, so you felt relatively safe in case he got mad about you messing with his sleeping spot.

No angry sounds came however. 

- - - -

Several more days passed just like that. You had made a seaweed bed for yourself as well, stuffing it in the skull and spending quite some time digging a little further into the sand so that you would have a true little hovel. Because of this you realised the skull had no lower jaw, which allowed you to dig down into the sand, causing for even more insulation to keep yourself warm at night. Was it necessary? No. Did it feel great to sleep in a warm environment? You bet it did.

Your interaction with Jotaro was still bar to none. Although he did seem more accepting of you, no longer letting out a dangerous or angry rumble when you moved too much or splashed around a bit.

You had gone back to playing with your yellow ball, throwing it at the scientists heads - though they dodged it more easily now that their attention wasn’t divided between two tanks. Still, whenever you did hit one of them, it felt like a huge accomplishment. 

While pretending to play however, you took the opportunity to gather information. Pick up on what the scientists were saying, checking the tank walls while you were pretending to swim around as fast as you could - while in actuality you went only about half as fast. In particular, hopping up on top of the concrete column rewarded you with figuring out there were cameras in the thing. They were small, built in and probably very expensive.

So the scientists were watching your every move even if they weren’t watching.

You honestly felt terrible when you figured that out and had retreated back to your skull, not coming out for 28 hours, not even for food.

About thirteen days had passed since you first came here, and you still had no idea how to get out...

- - - -

To say the scientists of the research facility were in excited chaos and confusion that morning was an understatement. 

After nearly two weeks of no process at all with the Mer they captured - the two of them only avoiding each other as much as possible - they come in for work, only to see the two of them curled up in the male’s nest and sleeping together!?

“What the hell happened?! John! Get the footage of last night!”

“Right!” Said man immediately sprinted away to get it while the rest stayed glued to the glass, watching the two Mer as best as they could with how far away from the glass they had set up camp.

A few minutes later, John returned and they all watched with baited breath to see what happened. 

Operating the four cameras, they switched between them and fast forwarded the footage from last night until there was motion, pressing play.

“What happened that gave them a change of heart?” 

- - - -

Disturbance in the water had roused Jotaro from his sleep. 

There was absolutely nothing in this tank except for a feeble artificial water current that helped with filtering. So, to suddenly feel such jerking motions in the water could only mean that it was the other occupant of the tank.

Jotaro tried to ignore it for a bit and go back to sleep but the irregularity and violence in which you were moving meant there was no chance of that.

A little annoyed, Jotaro got up and started swimming over to the skull you had taken residence in. 

Unlike the last time you had woken him up during the night, you were not in front of it. Furrowing his brows, Jotaro turned up and swam to one of the eye sockets. Gripping the edge of it, he pulled himself closer and peered inside.

It was hard to make anything out in the dark but with the limited night vision he had, Jotaro could see your form, completely curled in on yourself on top of a bed similar to what you had made for him. 

Only, then you twitched.

Your whole body jolted for a bit, a barely audible squeak leaving you before you settled again, only for you to jolt again a few seconds later. Your face was screwed up in pain and discomfort and Jotaro let his gaze drift to your waist, seeing if you could be in pain from that, even if it should have healed for the majority of it.

It wasn’t that though. You didn’t clutch at it in pain or explicitly tried to avoid touching it. You seemed to just be having a nightmare.

For a moment Jotaro considered just leaving. You’d wake up from it eventually and would then just go back to sleep. But that thought was quickly chased away.

Not ever had he seen you so... vulnerable. And as he looked at you, something in him screamed at him to protect you. To protect you, to hold you, to keep you close and safe. Only after a few seconds of feeling his stomach twist did Jotaro realise. Wait, shit- did he just imprint on you?

Just like pups would imprint on parents, so could future mates imprint on each other. It didn’t always happen or all that often actually, but something in Jotaro told him that that was exactly what just happened. Fuck.

Stunned for a few seconds longer, it was another small whimper from you that snapped him out of it. Pushing forward, Jotaro got closer to the eye but he could soon see that he wouldn’t be able to reach you through there with his arm, you were too far to the back and he definitely wouldn’t be able to fit. Hell, he wouldn’t even be able to put both his shoulders through there, let alone his tail.

So, with no other option, Jotaro would have to fully go inside another way.

He didn’t want to invade your personal space, but what other choice did he have? With a bit of hesitation, he swam towards the entrance you had dug and looked down into it. While it was big enough for you to be a comfortable and easy fit, Jotaro would either not fit at all, or have to really squeeze.

He got up for a second and sighed. He could hardly believe he was actually gonna do this. With a little stretch of his back and tail in anticipation, he grabbed hold of the roof of the mouth of the skull. 

Lifting it out of the sand was less heavy than he had thought, most likely because of the light material of the skull, but that didn’t mean it was easy. The sand was suctioning it quite strongly but he only had to lift it a little bit to accommodate himself, not pull it out completely. 

After a few seconds of lifting it up, Jotaro released it, content to see it stayed at the same height he had put it in before he almost immediately ducked down and made his way inside.

Swimming slowly to not scare you awake even more than you probably would be, Jotaro reached where you were tucked in the corner.

“Y/N.” He softly called out your name but it didn’t do shit. With a lack of social skills or experience, and the need to do at least something, Jotaro instead just opted to grab your shoulder. “Wake up.”

In an instant, you came to life. Seeing nothing but a large form hovering over you caused an immediate fight or flight response and you grabbed at the hand on your shoulder, using your other to swipe at your attacker, only for them to grab both your wrists.

“It’s just me, calm down.” The voice of Jotaro spoke and your breath hitched in your throat. Jotaro? What? How?

Any logic was cast out of your mind as your instincts kicked in. Right as Jotaro let go of your wrists, you shot forward and clung to him. The safety that him being larger and stronger provided and the body heat he emitted the only thing playing in your barely awake mind, still half stuck in the nightmare.

Jotaro was taken aback as you wrapped around him, yet, for what felt like the first time in forever, he welcomed the contact. As he raised one arm to attempt to wrap it around you and provide more safety, he instead painfully slammed his elbow against the skull, making you squeak and cling tighter to him before realising it was not a threat and letting up a bit.

As much as Jotaro wanted to, he couldn’t stay here. This skull could barely fit him as is, let alone with another person there. 

Patting your shoulder twice, you looked up at him and Jotaro felt his heart seize at the look you gave him. You also understood what he meant however and let go of him, floating back a bit.

Placing his hand on your head, Jotaro turned with a bit of effort and swam out of the skull.

As his tail disappeared from sight, you cast your eyes down. You were so tired and barely conscious enough to keep your eyes open, yet still, going back to sleep sounded like the last thing you wanted to do.

Suddenly however, you felt your wrist being grabbed and Jotaro yanked you with him out of that skull.

Confusion riddled your sleep heavy mind and you barely had enough thought to move your tail, attempting to help swim but mostly being dragged along by Jotaro.

Before long, you two reached Jotaro’s nest and he sat down on it, pulling you a bit closer since you were practically as far away as you could be, stretched out arms and confused. When you still didn’t seem to get it, Jotaro pulled you down with him until you were pressed against him, your back to his chest as he had his arm around you from behind. His tail started curling around you until it fully encased your form, pushing under your head until you were laying it on top, as if using his tail as a pillow. 

“Sleep.” Jotaro spoke softly from right behind you, almost whispering it into your ear, making your heart skip a beat. Almost immediately after saying that, a faint and low rumble began coming from his chest, almost as if he were purring, and you could instantly feel yourself becoming less anxious.

The soft vibrations on your back together with the protective arm wrapped over you and the strong, thick tail curled around and in front of your entire body made you feel safer than you had in a long time - maybe ever. 

By now, you could barely remember your nightmare, only that it scared you to death. But even then, all those fears were slowly driven away by the comfort of Jotaro’s warmth and the protection he brought.

Part 1  |  Part 2  |  Part 3  |  Part 4