#and of course i had to slip a mention of izzy in there somehow

[laceratedlamiaceae]

Ed x Frenchie and tattoo parlor/coffee shop AU

(AU Meme)

ooh okay so Frenchie is definitely one of those guys who plays guitar in coffee shops; maybe he can also work there too if you're being strict about the definition of coffee shop AU. Ed works at/co-owns the tattoo parlor across the street, and ever since Izzy started demanding that he actually comes in on time he's needed a lot of coffee to get going in the mornings. One morning he's getting his lightly-coffee-flavored sugar water when he hears Frenchie playing and is really impressed by his voice. Frenchie happens to be getting up right as Ed is leaving and he trips over literally nothing, landing right on Ed. There's the typical meet-cute where they help each other up and dab the spilled coffee off each other's clothes, then look into each other's eyes for a moment too long. Then Frenchie's manager (Stede, I imagine) calls for him and the moment is broken. Ed keeps coming for his coffee, staying a little longer to listen to Frenchie play each time. Sometimes they talk a little after his set and it turns out they actually have a lot in common. One day Ed realizes that the song Frenchie's singing is all about him and that gives him the confidence to actually ask him out.

[theclaravoyant]

AN ~ I had to get Ed out of those leathers. Especially when I saw this waistcoat. Hurt/comforty Blackbonnet Bliss

now on AO3 (Petrified Orange Ch.3)

New Clothes

It was early in the morning when Ed awoke, and pried himself gently out of bed. Stede was sprawled across the mattress snoring softly, but he’d always been an early riser - especially now, when beating the sun was a good way to get a few rabbits and a start on the roof work before the heat of the day settled in.

Not for the first time though, as he slipped into his boots and tugged on his jacket, Ed found himself lingering on the sight of his own reflection in the mirror. It hadn’t seemed that big of a deal at the time, putting the leathers back on. They were easier and more comfortable to fight in, and probably safer too, than that stupid sackcloth, that was all. And after Izzy had - well - he’d just wanted to get out of that navy uniform drenched in his blood as quickly as possible. It hadn’t mattered that the leathers were all he had left to change into. If anything, it was a positive; the last thing he had left of them, of Blackbeard, of this thing they’d built together. But the longer he wore them the more it played on his mind, that Blackbeard was the thing that had nearly destroyed them. That Izzy passing had given him permission - all but begged him, even - to let go.

Ed wasn’t used to changing things just because they made him a bit uncomfortable. Fuck, everything in his life was a bit uncomfortable. Izzy. His knee. His ships, which had somehow never quite felt like home. Now, his leathers. It was silly, really. Clothes were clothes were clothes. He didn’t have many. They served a purpose. But he’d thrown them into the sea for a reason, and he’d meant what he’d said. It had felt fucking great.

Maybe you should listen to it.

“Ed?” Stede’s voice interrupted from behind him, still muffled by drowsiness. He lifted his head off the pillow with a frown. “Everything alright?”

“Shit, man, sorry.” Ed shook his head. “Yeah, I’m fine. Didn’t mean to wake you.”

But awake he was, and he’d be damned if he was going to leave Ed adrift alone in this darkly pensive moment. Ed was glad for it, really; especially in the absence of a cozy blanket fort to comfort him while he was feeling adrift, there was something to be said for the way that Stede sidled up behind him, wrapped his arms around his waist, and rested his cheek against his shoulder blade. 

“It’s the leathers, isn’t it?” Stede guessed. “They don’t fit like they used to.”

Insightful bastard.

“It’s not important,” Ed reiterated.

“Of course it is,” Stede insisted. “They’re Blackbeard’s. You’re Edward. Believe it or not, I went through something similar. Why d’you think I wear necklines lower than Lucius now?”

In spite of himself, Ed chuckled. “I wasn’t going to mention it.”

Stede was smiling when he pulled away, and turned Ed to the side to face him. He looked him up and down, his knowledge of Ed and sartorial prowess weaving something together into a plan.

“Well,” he said, “we can head into town and pick something up-”

“Nah, there’s too much to do. Maybe later.”

“Then I have something for you.”

“You do?”

“Wait there,” Stede said, as if Ed was ever going to do anything else. He scarpered into the other room and dug around for a minute in the belongings they were still unpacking from the ship. Ed watched the doorway and listened to the rummaging, and found himself grinning back when Stede stuck his head back into the room, apparently victorious.

“Now,” Stede instructed. “You’ll have to borrow one of my tops, for now. We’ll order some more if you like it.”

Like what? Ed almost asked, but the question evaporated from his lips in sweet anticipation. In one of Stede’s hands he carried a lightly frilled, black peasant top; In the other, a long, flat box tied with a ribbon. A gift. For him.

He couldn’t get the leathers off fast enough, let alone his ratty old shirt. Stede’s shirt was soft and light - almost too much so, at least for his regular wardrobe. He was more comfortable in things more heavy and tight. But then Stede held out the box, and let him pull the ribbons off and lift away the lid. His jaw dropped. Words competed to make their way out of his mouth in a jumble until eventually one fell out:

“Stede.” 

What he meant was something like it’s stunning, I can’t believe you did this.

Folded neatly in the box between them was a handsome waistcoat in a rich purple colour - or rather, a black waistcoat so finely embroidered with purple it was hard to tell the difference. The pattern was slightly floral - perhaps paisley, or ivy. It danced beneath his fingers as he held it up to admire it better.

“Holy shit, Stede,” he breathed. “When did you-”

“When we were shopping for Calypso’s birthday.” Stede blushed. “I know it’s nothing fancy. Only brass buttons. But technically, it is a silk-blend brocade, so-”

Suddenly he found his words cut off in a kiss so passionate and deep it almost made his knees drop out from under him.  Fine fabric be damned. All his fancy words about it flittered out the cracks in the walls until all that was left were Ed’s big brown eyes, shining with overwhelming gratitude.

“I take it you like it, then,” Stede rasped, not bothering to move more than an inch from Ed’s lips.

“I love it,” Ed vowed. “It’s perfect. Thank you.”

[closedmadness]

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐇𝐀𝐓𝐄, 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄

summary: you and alec hated each other — or at least, pretended to in front of everyone. behind the scenes, however, you two are insanely in love with each other

pairings: alec lightwood x male reader

warnings → fluff & nsfw・swearing・fake arguments・make-out session・blowjob・anal penetration・slight possessive alec

a/n: please i didn’t mean for this to be short nsfw but my fingers moved on its own✋😭 it was supposed to be just cute, fluffy and sweet💀

“you can’t tell me that it wasn’t your fault we failed our mission today.” alec’s voice boomed in the institute as soon as all of you got home, irritation clear in his tone.

rolling your eyes, a sigh escaped your lips. you really don’t want to do this right now after that particularly bad, failed mission — a bunch of female mundanes swarmed over you while on duty, disturbing you and making you unable to guard over the demons that were wrecking havoc on that club itself. those females were a distraction; they wanted to get into your pants, thirty for some love from a incredibly good-looking man like you.

deciding not to deal with his crap as isabelle and jace scolded alec, you went to walk pass him before being stopped quickly with a grab on your arm. “i really don’t want to do this right now, lightwood.” you immediately said after turning around, refusing to let him talk first. “i feel responsible of this mission as much as it’s hard to believe that, and i don’t want you constantly nagging me about it.”

“as you should.” he retorts with the same cold, emotionless face he always plastered on. “and of course, i will nag you about it, it was an important mission! we got to kill those demons but we didn’t get to find out their intention.”

you scrunched your brows together, “why didn’t you ask any of them when those mundanes were crowding over me? i’m sure you had plenty of chances.” eyes glinting with suspicion, you stepped forward towards him. “or maybe you just didn’t want to do anything so you could frame me on the failed mission.” you accused.

alec’s brows furrowed and his lips curved upside down in a frown at that. he narrowed his eyes, offended and upset. “you’re accusing me now? great, (y/n)! of course, you would find a way to accuse me somehow!” he exclaimed sarcastically.

you scoff and rolled your eyes, done with his bullshit before storming off the heart of the institute towards your room.

“seriously, alec?” isabelle gives her brother a look, hands resting on her hips, but all the male lightwood did was glare at her and storm off as well.

she didn’t know why you and alec are always on each other’s throats; it’s almost as if you’d kill each other when left alone together, there isn’t even any clear reason you two should hate each other yet you still do. it’s probably because of the feud between maryse and your mother, but even then, she still did not understand. in her eyes, alec was longing for your touches and just you in general, yet he’s pushing you away. isabelle has been wanting the both of you to get along — though, it might be the hardest one to achieve.

jace and clary glanced at each other, knowing how she feels about this whole feud thing. “they’ll come around soon, izzy.” the former comforts, placing his hand on her shoulder.

“yeah, let’s just believe in them.” clary joins, taking up the space opposite jace. “you know what they say; the more you hate, the more you love. who knows? they might actually get along someday.” she tried her best to cheer up, which worked miraculously as isabelle reveals a smile.

perhaps, she should be patient as the universe works in its own wonderful ways. all these small, petty arguments are getting tiring and she just hopes something will change for the better.

walking down the hallway leading up to your room, alec looks around first cautiously and makes sure no one’s witnessing anything before eventually stopping in front of your door.

it was already unlocked, with you peeking from the tiny bit of space between, grinning up at him. alec smiled and assured you there was no one around, which made you open the door wide and pull him in. giggling together, he closed the door behind him and made sure to lock it as you captured his lips on yours, cupping his face with both hands.

he smiled into the kiss, moving to wrap his arms around your waist while yours wrapped around his neck, pulling each other close. feeling a gentle squeeze on your butt, you took that as a signal to jump and wrap your legs around him, alec not missing a beat to catch you. with lips still attached together, alec moved to sit on the bed, his hands beginning to roam around your body. breaking the kiss to catch your breath, he took it as an opportunity to run his lips and tongue across your neck, licking, sucking and biting. you moaned, tilting your head back to give him more access.

“alec...” you whimpered breathlessly as he sucked harshly on your skin, creating a pretty visible hickey. “they will- don’t make one where they can see it.” complaining, you slipped your fingers through his soft hair but didn’t stop him from continuing his work.

he hums, the vibration making you shiver. “you can always cover it, (y/n). i know you like it when i leave my mark on you.” he mumbled against your skin, tightening his hold. a moan once again leaves your lips when he bit on your sweet spot, the blissful sound making him groan and slip his hand in the back of your pants. “you know today was not your fault, right?” he suddenly whispers, staring into your (e/c) eyes that never failed to make him lost.

you stared back at his hazel eyes, nodding your head and resting your forehead against his. “of course, darling. i never meant anything i’ve said either.”

this is always what you did — argue, act like enemies, be nasty, throw insults at one another, speak with distaste in the front, but once behind the closed doors, you apologize to each other and make sure the other didn’t take it to their heart, as well as show love, so you’d be reassured of everything.

alec smiles, his eyes shining with admiration and love. oh, how angelic he looked with that smile of his. only you could see him so soft.

“truth is, i couldn’t ask the demons because i was focused on you.” he admitted, looking down for a second before returning his gaze on you. “those mundanes,” distaste filled his tone at the mention of those creature, “had no right to touch you like that. acting like you’d sleep with them, be their man.” his lips pouted at the thought as jealousy clouded his chest.

chuckling, you pecked his lips when found his jealousy cute. “alec, darling, you know i’m only gonna do that with you. i’m completely yours.” talking with a loving tone, your fingers played with his hair that always made him feel good.

alec smiled in fondness and gently pulled you by the back of your head, capturing your lips in yet another heated kiss. you bit on his bottom lip, erupting a groan from him as he pushed the jacket off of your shoulders, it falling on the floor along with your black shirt. alec only ever broke the kiss when he removed his jacket and shirt, and quickly smashed his lips back on yours, tongue slipping in smoothly and exploring your mouth, fighting against your own wet muscle for dominance.

he then flipped you both to lay your back on the soft mattress, never breaking the kiss as his hand ran across your chest and abs, tracing every bit of your body. you moaned into the kiss when he palmed your cock through the thick layer of pants.

“mhm, alec...” calling his name breathlessly, you unconsciously buckled your hips onto his hand, trying to get some sort of stimulation.

alec groaned in arousal at your reaction, quickly unzipping your pants and tugging it off of you along with your boxers. a cool of air hit your manhood as soon as it was released, making you shiver, eyes closing in response.

the lightwood took his time to admire you completely; your eyes glistening with lust, lips swollen from all the kissing, chest rising up and down with every breath you take, fully naked, presenting yourself to him without shame or hesitation. no matter how many times he looked at every part of you, you never ceased to take his breath away. it was sort of amusing, how even after all this time you still have him wrapped around your finger and willingly refusing to ever unwrap.

god, he’s so lucky to have you.

alec starts kissing your chest downwards slowly until it reached your hard erection, laying a peck on the tip which had you twitching. giving your tip a kitten lick, his hand pumped your cock painfully slow as you whimpered. he licked off the dripping precum before fully taking you in, the walls of his mouth rubbing against your shaft making you moan and throw your head back, eyes almost rolling to the back of your head. he didn’t stop until he took all the way in and starts to bob his head upwards and backwards, twirling his wet muscle skillfully on your shaft while doing so, keeping his gaze fixed on you.

you gripped the sheets tightly until your knuckles turned white, wave after wave of pleasure hitting you like a tsunami as an uncontrollable moans escaped your lips. “fuck, alec! t-that feels so good.” you praised, arching your back to get more stimulation.

alec kept you in place with his hands as he continued sucking you off, the bulge in his pants implying his intense arousal upon the delicious sight in front of him. his cock was painfully hard underneath that thick fabric.

saliva as well as your precum dripped his chin, but he couldn’t careless as he only wanted you to feel amazing. and indeed, you were feeling just that.

he could see your legs quiver in the corner of his eyes. you were close, he could feel it by your cock twitching and pulsating in his mouth. an all too familiar feeling builds in the pit of your stomach as tears blurred your vision, your mind reminding you how close you are to your climax. “ohhh, fuck! alec! i’m close- aghhh!”

“cum for me, (y/n).” alec speaks, and although it was muffled due to your cock still buried between his lips, you understood. he fastened his pace, slowly sending you over the edge until finally, you let out a loud moan of his name as white seeds shoots out from your cock in his mouth. your hips jerked while you ride out your orgasm, his lips still wrapped around the manhood in an attempt to swallow everything that spills out of it.

he then released your cock from his mouth with a loud ���pop’ and hovered above your panting body again, capturing your lips in a gentle kiss. you could taste yourself along with his saliva as your wet muscles danced together lazily.

a shaky sigh leaves his lips after feeling how painfully hard he was and finally moved to remove the rest of his clothes, pants and boxers altogether — his hard-on springing up as he released a relieved sigh from the freeness. his pants were getting too tight with his as-hard-as-a-rock manhood inside.

“alec,” you breathlessly called, bringing your hands up to cup his face. “go ahead and put it in. i want you now.”

“but without preparation-”

“it will hurt, i know.” you cut him off, giving him an assuring look. “we did it yesterday, it’ll be okay. please, just fuck me right now,” you placed your lips just above his ear, “show me those mundanes aren’t better than you.”

“you really...” he growled. you really knew how to rile him up.

without a warning, he slammed his cock into you in just one go and ripped out a scream from your throat, eyes rolling to the back of your head from the sudden feeling of being filled with his thick shaft.

thrusting his hips, alec groaned at the warm feeling of your tight hole around him and kissed your collarbone to muffle his own noises while his ears are blessed with your constant whines, moans and whimpers.

“shit, ah! alec! more!” you desperately whined, hips moving on its own to meet with his rhythmic thrust.

“fuck, (y/n)...” he grunted right into your ear, making you shudder.

his pace was fast and rough as he fucked you mercilessly into the mattress while leaving hickeys everywhere he can, angling his thrust so he’d perfectly hit your prostate. “you’re only mine. no mundanes, or shadowhunters, or downworlders can get to lay their hands on you but me. i’m the only one who get to fuck you like this...” his words went straight to your already hard-enough cock, arousing you even further.

it’s always hot whenever alec gets possessive over you, and you loved that.

“oh my god, alec— right there!” you moaned, now tears rolling down your flushed cheeks. his thrust starts to get sloppy as both of you near the edge, you could feel his cock pulsing and twitching inside your hole.

it took three harsh and hard thrust to completely throw you off as your eyes rolled to the back of your head, loud moans that sounded almost like a scream erupting from your throat, back arching and body squirming underneath him as white loads shoots out again from your manhood, landing on your exposed chest and stomach, cumming hard. your walls tightened around him while you cum and that was enough for alec to spill his hot seed inside you, filling you up good like always.

pulling out, he collapsed on the bed beside you, catching your breath together and slowly calming down from your high. “great thing your room is soundproof.” alec comments, making you both chuckle.

“yeah, that’s one thing i love about this room.” you laughed and he did as well before pulling you so you could rest your head on his chest, listening to his even and rhythmic heartbeat.

cleaning up can wait tomorrow. for now, you two wanted to cuddle up with each other knowing there has to be a lot of pretending again.

jace, isabelle, clary and magnus all sat exasperated on the couch as they watch you and alec go back and fourth over the cup and valentine, both arguing and insulting each other for about an hour now.

it’s a usual day, with you and alec hating the other using the sharpness of your tongues, but they were getting tired of this constant bickering and slight sexual tension that always rose in the air.

magnus had just recently discovered your hatred for each other and at first he found it amusing, but that soon turned into boredom when it became an occasional sight for him. though, he can admit that your tongue is sharper than alec’s and he’s impressed by that.

“valentine is a shadowhunter, alright? he’d be able to get the cup from here.” you argued, giving the lightwood a pointed look.

alec folded his arms, “not if we guard it.”

you raised your brows and a ‘really?’ look crossed your face. “have you forgotten that he killed thousands of shadowhunters and downworlders, or did you become so old that your memory gaps is getting worse?” he shot you a death glare at that, not liking the tone you use on him.

“okay so,” clary stands up, “why don’t you both just calm down and figure this out in a friendly way?” you and alec snapped your gaze towards her, eyes practically sending daggers. she held her hands up, “or maybe not. but can’t you just... uh- not fight, for once?”

“not my problem he’s irritating.” you retorted with arms folded above your chest.

alec rolled his eyes, “well, not my problem either that he’s annoying.” he exclaimed while his index finger pointed at you.

“you two look like an old married couple.” isabelle comments with a teasing smirk dancing on her lips. you and alec froze in your places and looked at her with unreadable expression before turning back at each other.

it felt good hearing that, since you two are dating.

the conversation were interrupted when maryse approaches, her hands fiddling with each other and a nervous look on her face.

you sighed, stepping away to walk out, but maryse quickly stops you when you walked pass her. “stay, please. this involves you, too.” confusion laced your face at that, but didn’t say anything as you stepped back.

“i know that the feud between (y/n)’s mother and i have caused some troubles within you, and we’re very sorry for that. we decided... it’s better to forget what happened between us rather than drag it down and have it affect all of you.” she turned around and gestured for someone to come, your mother walking up to her, their hand intertwining in a friendly manner as smiles coated their faces.

surprise filled everyone’s face, brows raising. “wait, does this mean you two are friends now?” isabelle asked.

your mother smiled, nodding her head. “we had a genuine conversation last night and found out we had more similarities than we thought we would.”

jace, clary and isabelle smiled at one another while magnus sipped on his drink, feeling quite happy for them. this meant you and alec had no reason to hate each other.

“so this isn’t a joke? you’re not pretending?” you asked, suspicion on both yours and alec’s face. they shook their heads and smiled.

you stared at them before turning to alec who looked back at you, silently conversing.

finally, a sigh leaves his lips as you simultaneously looked at the two mothers with a smile. “that’s a great news, mother. i hope you have fun together.” he congratulates, smiling. “now, (y/n) and i have somewhere else to go. i assume there won’t be any missions for today.”

surprise looks coated everyone’s faces and their eyes almost popped out of their sockets when you intertwined your hand with his. you waved at them, alec beginning to drag you two away.

“hold on a second, where are you going? and what does that mean?” jace quickly asked, pointing at your intertwined hands after he stood up from the couch.

“isn’t it obvious?” alec gives him a look, “we’re going on a date. now, make an effort not to interrupt us.” he continued to pull you.

“have fun with mom, mrs. lightwood!” you said with a smile before disappearing out with alec.

everyone still looked shocked.

“well, that took a turn.” magnus smirked, drinking his tequila.

© prettymadness — all rights reserved. do not repost or translate without my permission. plagiarism is strictly prohibited.

[bringmebackdude]

I Can't Quit You Baby

(gif not mine)

Pairing: Slash x fem!Reader

Concept: Slash has been hooking up with a rich girl, but this time "no ties" starts to bother him.

Word count: 1,454

A/N: Actually I've been thinking about making a fic out of this one, haven't read or seen one like this with the guys and mixing a rich girl with Slash seems very interesting...(if you have, please let me know, I'm not trying to steal any content by mistake!)

(light smut, fluff)

His agitated body dropped next to hers, both chests going up and down from exhaustion and the heat that filled the considerably small room. Their bodies still felt the shivers of pleasure, there was a comfortable silence during the recovery. (Y/N) sat on the edge of the bed looking for her bra, which she spotted right next to Pandora's tank, his snake, alongside her panties. It was a usual scavenger hunt for her clothes, she and Slash wouldn't care where they left their stuff when lust came between them. He lit a cigarette while watching his companion with a frown, slightly smirking seconds later when he laid eyes on the lightning-struck tattoo she had on her left buttock. "You're leaving already?"

"Wasn't two hours enough for you, big boy?" she chuckled, sliding her legs inside the pink skirt.

"It's just that you usually stay longer...y'know" shrugging and letting the smoke escape from his lips, he sat on the bed. Carefully pushing some of his rebel curls back, so he could give a better look to the girl's half-naked body. "And it isn't two hours if you count the smoke breaks."

"I have stuff to do, and I'm already late," her tone was calm, but she buttoned down her blouse in a rush, shoving her panties in her purse after.

"Daddy invited the president over tonight?" he asked mockingly.

"Ha-ha, very funny," she finished tying her boots and walked towards him, holding his face between her hands "You would love to go to one, wouldn't ya?"

"I'd die for," using his reliable sarcasm, he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"I'll see you soon," always her same goodbye, not forgetting about the quick peck on the lips before taking her belongings and walking out of his room. "Bye, Pandora! Bye, Duff!" Slash heard the main door close, letting out a sigh, all the fun was over sooner than he thought. He was quite happy with the dynamic between him and (Y/N), no need for compromises, just sex whenever they were in need. She was funny, hot, friendly, listened to the same music as he did, and not to mention she was rich. Also, her dad hated Slash, which made the friendship more exciting for both of them. Two lovers of trouble, together, were no good. That's exactly what he wanted, a good fuck and then leave. But somehow, it slightly bothered him that she didn't ask for more. All the girls were looking for something serious with him, why not her?

"She left early, huh?" Duff's head poked out of his door before he made an entrance to the curly's bedroom. He shrugged again, taking a puff on his cigarette "Yeah." "Oh dude, I'm so jealous you can bang that anytime you want. Do you mind if I shoot my shot with her?" "It's not up to me. She's probably out of your league" Slash replied. The guys enjoyed having her around, she wasn't stuck up like other ones, but still, she had a very strong character, which would sometimes cause fights between her and Axl. Of course, she had developed quite the friendship with Duff. The blond giraffe was funny as hell. "If she's a Motley Crue girl, there will be no problem to get her" rested his body against the wall and crossed his arms with a smirk. He knew it was gonna piss the guitarist. "What do you mean?" "Izzy and I ran into her a couple of nights ago after a Motley Crue concert. No big deal." "What were you doing there?" Slash interest grew, he threw the cigarette to the floor and step on it. She goes to see Motley but not us? (Y/N) knew that they were making noise around Los Angeles, he talked endlessly to her about many gigs, still, she never attended one. The unusual feeling of resentment invaded him. He shrugged, making his way out of the room "Chicks are horny as fuck at the end of a rock concert, dude." Duff laughed walking through the hall, knowing the effect that his comment had caused on his friend. As much as Slash would deny it, everyone in the band knew there was something much more than just a friendship going between the two of them. Ever since the night they met her, the proprietorial side of the curly had shown. Besides (Y/N) being rad, she would sometimes arrive at their apartment with boxes of beer when she knew it was their rest day, lent them some clothes, or even offer transportation. Although she would disappear very often and for several days, it was a friendship worth keeping. At this point, the guys were just waiting for them to become something a bit more official, but the two lovers were too proud.

﹆

Her foot stomped on the floor when she tripped on the amp next to the sofa, the dark empty apartment echoed with giggles from the two of them, their mouths refusing to separate. Slash felt the doorknob of his room, quickly opening the door and pulling the girl inside, both wasting no time in starting to take their clothes off. She let her skirt slide down her legs, showing off her pink thong. He, on the other side, was almost naked when he took his pants off, the guy had no problem being commando most of his life. He laid her body delicately on the bed, sliding his mouth towards the female's jaw, where he left traces of saliva from his wet kisses along with a few bites. The rough touch of his blistered fingers running through her body, making her skin crawl as the touch entered between her legs, a smirk appeared in the guitarist's face when he felt how wet she was already, something he never got tired of. A moan escaped from her lips when his mouth positioned on one of her nipples, sucking hard. "Baby" her hands running through his curls, slightly pulling from these, "I need you," she whispered. Needless to say, that unleashed the lust he carried inside.

...

His tanned hand grabbed the delicate one, feeling his fingers locked with hers, a simple but cute thing that Slash usually didn't do. She bit her lip, hiding the smile that the sudden action had provoked on her. "So... Duff told me he saw you at a Motley concert." "Oh yeah, I think it was last weekend or something like that," she shrugged, peering up at him. "I didn't know you liked those types of bands..." trying hard to hide his jealousy, he kept an unworried face. "One of my girlfriends took me with her, and you know I like rock," covering her breasts with the blanket, she reached for a cigarette and took the lighter from the nightstand. "Why?" "Why what?" "Why is this whole interrogation happening, dumbass?" she chuckled, letting the smoke come out right in front of his face. Slash coughed, rolling his eyes before stealing the cigarette from her hand, to which she smiled. "I don't know, it's just that you never come to watch us perform." "So?"

"So? We are friends, and you've never attended one of our gigs, you just drop us off and we're way better than them," he scoffed irritated. The female looked at him with confusion, not understanding where this was all coming from. "Honey, you never invite me to any of your events, I thought this was only hooking up and hanging every now and then," she replied with furrowed brows. He never seemed to have a problem with that. "Well maybe I want more..." with his arms crossed on his chest, he avoided her fazed stare, the last thing he needed was for her to notice his cheeks blushing. The words slipped out of his mouth. Did he regret saying that? No, he didn't, all this time he had been craving more but his pride was too big to admit it. After a few seconds of letting all this new information sink in, slowly a mocking smile was drawn on her face, sliding in bed to be closer to him,"Why didn't you say anything before?" "Cause I guess I didn't realize it completely until a few days ago...whatever, this is stupid" his slight embarrassment was adorable for her, it was a completely new side of the tough carefree guy she knew. "No, it's not," she stopped him before he could get out of the bed."I think we could work something out," a shy smile was attached to the response that was going to change their path from now and on. "I'd like that" he pulled her closed, wrapping his arms around her waist as another round was waiting for them.

[isa-renee]

Secrets And Lies (And Quite the Surprise)

Alexander Gideon Lightwood, years deep in the closet and months deep into this particular lie, has approximately five minutes to find a fake girlfriend before this all blows up in his face. Enter one Clary Fray, friend to Magnus, stranger to Izzy, and the perfect candidate to fool his family. Really, it’s the perfect plan. So what could go wrong? 

read it on Ao3:

 Alec was in trouble. Major trouble.

 “So, big brother,” Isabelle started, sitting down across from him in the coffee shop. “How long until I can finally meet this mystery girl of yours?” She smirked as she took a sip of her latte.

 And there...well, there was the trouble. Namely that there was no mystery girl, that Alec secretly was gay as hell, and that there might in fact have been a mystery boy (not that his sister knew about Magnus of course).

 “Uhm well…” he started, trying to think of some answer that she might accept but drawing a blank. Oh no. This was not good.

 It had all started the month before when, fed up with his siblings’ constant pestering about his love life, he had caved and told Jace that he had a date one night. With a girl. This of course was a lie. (Well, the girl part. He actually had had plans to see Magnus.) And as lies are bound to do, it soon spiraled far out of his control. Jace had told Izzy, and Izzy, naturally, had not let him off the hook quite as easily as their brother had.

 The solution to his predicament? More lies of course! (What else?)

 So for the past month, he had pretended to have a girlfriend, carefully evading his siblings’ questions about her. And somehow it was working.

 Well, sort of. Partially. Maybe. A little bit. Okay actually the entire situation was getting way out of hand and it was not working at all.

 The good news? He’d had plenty of reason to sneak off and be with Magnus. He just had to tell Jace he was seeing his girlfriend and the blond would smirk and wish him luck. That bad news? Izzy was getting suspicious. And no good ever came from Izzy being suspicious.

 Which led Alec back to the coffee shop, and his now dire situation.

 “Alec?” he heard Izzy’s voice, a slight undercurrent of laughter. “Are you alright there? You spaced out for a second.”

 “Sorry,” he smiled sheepishly. “Just nervous,” he blurted out. Oh no.

 “Oh yeah? What about?” This was not good. “Are you actually going to let me meet Mystery Girl? Or at least tell me her name? Jace and I have started calling her Meg, you know. MG for Mystery Girl but that still took too long to say. But it would be nice to have an actual name.”

 “Uhmm…” Alec knew he had to say something, but his mind was blanking.

 Izzy smirked again. “Unless there's a reason you’re keeping her secret of course. Is she a professor? Are you dating one of your professors? You know I would have expected that from Jace but not you Alec.” She grinned at him, sensing his discomfort and hoping to lighten the mood, and he gave a weak chuckle. “Or hmm is she an undercover FBI agent? Secret service? Maybe she’s—”

 “Actually she’s on her way here right now.” Wait what?

 “Really?” Izzy asked, surprise evident on her face, but with a delighted look in her eyes. Oh God, what was he doing?

 “Yeah of course. I thought it was time you two met.” Crap crap crap crap crap. This had to be his worst idea ever. Why wouldn't the words just stop leaving his mouth?

 “She’ll be here in five minutes.”

 Oh, he was so screwed.

 So there he was, in a coffee shop with his sister, about to be caught in one of the biggest lies he’d ever told. Unless he thought of something in the next—he checked his watch—three minutes. Oh this was not good.

 Isabelle was talking to him still, something about a new friend she’d made, an artist or something? Honestly, he barely caught a word of it, caught in his worry spiral, desperately trying to find a way out of this hole he’d dug himself into.

 Izzy was still saying something to him, and he turned his head and saw a flash of bright red hair out of the corner of his eye. Clary, he remembered her name was, a friend of Magnus’ who he’d met a few times.

 And suddenly, he had an idea.

 He stood up, cutting Izzy off in the middle of her sentence. “Sorry,” he said, “One second and I’ll be right back.” He left the table and moved over to the line where Clary was standing. He tried to walk casually, though inside his head he was screaming, absolutely utterly freaking out at the sheer stupidity of his desperate plan. But, well, this was the only option he could see.

 He approached Clary with a wave, hoping she remembered him from Magnus’. She saw him and smiled as she waved back, so he really hoped she might be willing to help him out. If not, well, this would all be over sooner than he expected.

 “Clary,” he said as he approached her in the line. “Hi. I know we don’t know each other that well, and I’m really sorry to ask you for this, but I kind of need you to pretend to be my girlfriend for the next twenty minutes.”

 And she must have sensed the desperation in his eyes, because she leaned in close to him and grabbed his arm in the way a girlfriend might, obviously confused but trying to play the part. “Okay, explain.”

 And so he did. “So I’m here with my sister and it’s kind of a long story but she thinks I have a girlfriend and I sort of panicked and said she could meet her today. And the problem is that I don’t actually have a girlfriend. Because I'm dating Magnus. Because I’m gay. Which my sister does not know. And I know it’s a lot to ask but please I could really use your help here.”

 “You're dating Magnus?” And she sounded excited at the idea. “Oh I’m so glad, you two are always so cute together, and I had wondered, but he never mentioned it.”

 “Yeah,” he answered, color slightly coming to his face. “I’m not exactly out, which is the whole reason for all of this, and why he hasn’t said anything. But he and I have been together for a few months, just keeping it quiet for now.”

 “I’m so happy for you two! And yes, Alec, of course I'll do this. In the spirit of gay-lesbian solidarity of course!” She laughed as she said the last, and huh, Alec had never realized she was gay too. He had always assumed she was dating that boy she hung around. Simon? Was that his name? But apparently not. Whatever her reasoning, Alec was just glad for her help. “But I was actually here to see my girlfriend, so let me just text her that I’ll have to take a raincheck.”

 “Thank you!” he said, and wow did he mean it. He could have kissed her for gratitude. Well, if it weren’t for the gay thing. He supposes if he could have kissed her, that would have led to a very different afternoon. “This might actually work.”

 And, well, he should have known that it was too good to be true.

 He and Clary arrived at the table where Isabelle was sitting, though she seemed a bit hesitant to sit down there. Izzy, too, looked surprised, probably that he actually did have a girl here to meet his sister. He seriously could not believe how well his plan was working.

 He turned to Isabelle to introduce her. “Izzy,” he started, gesturing towards Clary. “Meet Clary, my girlfriend.”

 He pulled out the chair next to him for Clary to sit, only she didn’t move to sit down, just staring silently at his sister. And this did not bode well. Izzy was also just staring at him now, some expression on her face that he couldn’t quite place. And this was definitely not good.

 Isabelle turned from him to look at Clary, and the two locked eyes for a second, and he seriously could not puzzle out the expression on his sister’s face. Clary made some sort of noise to his left, evidently surprised by the sight of Isabelle for some reason.

 “Um, do you two know each other already?” Alec asked, by that point very confused.

 Izzy stared at Alec, then at Clary, then back at Alec once more. “Something like that,” she responded, and then she turned to Clary and. Winked? At her?

 And suddenly Clary just burst out laughing. She was doubled over in her laughter, and oh no this was so not good. What was going on?

 Izzy seemed close to laughter herself, though she tried to compose herself as she turned to Alec, doing her best to put on a serious face, though her grin managed to slip through nonetheless.

 “Alec,” she began, Clary laughing even harder as she tried and failed to use a serious tone. And oh this was not good, not good at all. Alec didn’t know what was wrong, only that something was, and that his plan somehow seemed to have failed pretty epically. How did they know each other? What was that wink for? Izzy continued, regaining herself after a pause. “Why, exactly, are you pretending to date my girlfriend?”

 And, huh. Well. He really hadn’t seen that one coming.

 Clary was still laughing, and Izzy had joined her too, by the time Alec had realized he should really say something. He opened his mouth to do just that, only he really had no idea what to say. Was there any way for him to fix this? Or would he finally have to admit to the truth, after his months of carefully constructed lies?

 He was so caught up in trying to find a way to fix the situation, that it didn't hit him until a few moments later, by which time Clary and his sister finally seemed to have calmed down.

 “Wait, girlfriend?!”

 Finally, after what felt like years but more likely was only about a minute, Alec found himself sitting at the table once again, with his sister across from him, and her girlfriend next to him, the two finally quieted down after his last comment had set them off laughing again. And it was official. There was absolutely no salvaging this lie. Oh, Jace was going to be unbearable when he found this out.

 “Yes, Alec, my girlfriend. The person I have been telling you about for ten minutes. And who came to this coffee shop to finally meet you, though it turns out you two are dating?” At this she turns to Clary. “You know, I could have sworn you said you were a lesbian. And now you’re dating my brother? Really?”

 Clary giggled at that, though thankfully it seemed the two were finally finished with their uncontrolled fits of laughter. “Oh I don’t know, Izzy,” she started, continuing in the joking mood Izzy had set, definitely no longer trying to actually pretend to date Alec. “He’s just so handsome.” She patted his cheek. “I just had to make an exception. I’m sure you understand.”

 “Well, good looks do run in the family after all.”

 The two started giggling again, and Alec knew he should say something, but found then he was having the opposite problem from earlier. While before, he couldn't stop words leaving his mouth, then, he found that he could not think of a single thing to say.

 Izzy seemed to notice how uncomfortable he looked, though, and she stopped laughing and turned to look at him, actually serious now.

 “Alec…” she prompted gently. “Okay, you obviously weren’t trying to make a joke, or you’d be laughing right now with us. What’s going on?”

 Clary sobered up at that too, realizing abruptly that, as funny as the situation was—and even Alec could tell, objectively, that it was pretty hilarious, though he was having a hard time feeling that to tell the truth—their plan had failed, which meant that Alec now had to find not only a new fake girlfriend, but an explanation for all of this, or else he would be outed to his sister, something he very obviously was not ready for.

 “It’s actually a really funny story,” Clary began, sounding surprisingly sure for someone thinking on the spot. “I’m good friends with Maia, who Alec is actually dating, and she wasn’t able to make it today, at the last minute, but she had realized that you and Alec were siblings and she had this great idea and–”

 “Clary,” Alec cut her off mid-sentence. She was doing a surprisingly convincing job of covering for him, and he was grateful for her in that moment. But he realized, as he was sitting there with his sister and the girl she was dating, that he really had nothing to worry about. And as he heard this new lie starting, he could so easily see himself going on with it, and getting deeper into it once again. He realized then that he didn’t want that. He didn't deserve that. He thought about lying again and realized that, for the first time, he was ready to tell the truth. “Clary, thank you. But I think I’m finally ready to do this.”

 So he turned to his sister. And she looked back at him, and he wondered why he ever worried about telling her. It was Izzy! Izzy had always supported him, in everything. Sure, she had always talked to him about cute girls, but finally he realized that that wasn’t her shoving him back into the closet, that was her coming out of her own. He could do this!

 “I’m not dating Clary. Or Maia. In fact, I’m not dating a girl at all.” He could do this. He could. “I’m dating a guy. I’m dating a wonderful man, and his name is Magnus Bane, and I really like him a lot, and I think you will too.” And it was done. He was out. (To Izzy at least, but he was out!)

 As he finished, the biggest smile came over his sister’s face, and she got up from the table and rushed around to give him a big hug right there in his chair. “I’m so proud of you,” she said softly into his hair, before pulling away to slide away and back into her seat opposite him. He looked up and saw Clary just beaming at the two of them, and was struck by the gratitude that his sister was dating someone so kind and, honestly, perfect for her.

 The plan may have failed epically, he thought, but everything still worked out alright in the end. He couldn’t wait to tell Magnus about it all.

[cicinicole-14]

it’s always the darkest before dawn

hey listen, the entire jolexgroupchat fucking bULLIED ME into writing a part two for ‘denial isn’t just a river in egypt’ and that was very rude, but y’know it yielded results somehow, so like ??? take that what you will… anyway here’s this. enjoy.

Relief floods her entire body as soon as her eyes land on him. The feelings of dread and worry that had been wracking her body at the thought of returning to an empty loft with a baby that she had nothing for, by herself, terrified her. But just the sight of him brought relief through her.

She couldn’t cross the loft fast enough, practically catapulting into his embrace, grateful he was on the couch, fearing she’d knock him over if not.

She melts into his arms, burying her head into the crook of his neck, holding him so close, so tight.

The feeling of his arms wrapped around her waist and back, holding her against him, just like he used to. She inhales his scent, letting it flood her senses and relishes in the fact that he’s real; he’s here, for her, for them.

She pulls back, with tears in her eyes, but still, a sad smile on her face. “Come meet our son.” She says, pulling him up as she stood, leading him over to the bed where his carrier lay.

Meredith gently unclips the straps from his chest and between his tiny legs, adjusting the hat from covering his eyes and carefully lifts him out, presenting him over to Jo. Jo cradles him gently against her chest, tucking her head down to look at him and then back up at Alex.

“This is Luca. Luca, meet your Daddy.” She says, passing off the baby to Alex.

Meredith takes the moment to excuse herself, wishing the two a congratulations on their baby before slipping out of the loft, leaving the new parents to themselves.

Alex takes the baby from Jo, supporting his tiny, jello-y body in his massive hands.

Jo takes a step back, taking in the sight of how tiny Luca looked in Alex’s arms, the sight of Alex holding his son, the sight of seeing her family together. It resonates through her and she lets out a breath she’d seemingly been holding in, letting the calm feeling course through her.

She was happy. She felt whole. Everything was right.

Until it wasn’t.

Until Alex mentioned he was leaving the following week, on Sunday morning. Because he had a job, and kids, and an Izzie, and a life, all back in Kansas, where he didn’t belong. A life that she didn’t fit into.

And the feelings of dread resume. The feelings of denial come back, except this time, she isn’t able to deny the fact that she has a child, not with the way that he’s waking her up in the middle of the night every few hours to nurse. His constant crying to be held or soothed, or changed. The need of just being a newborn, and she just doesn’t have the energy anymore. Her world is cracking and crumbling, threatening to fall apart, only three days left until her shred of happiness will disappear again.

The three days pass in a blur, and she deteriorates even further.

The knocking at the loft door is almost concealed by the sound of Luca’s cries, but she doesn’t care. Whoever’s on the other side will go away eventually, she hopes.

Her hopes are crushed when there’s a key in the lock and the door slides open, and she can hear Meredith talking to her, but she doesn’t listen to her. And then Luca’s cries grow quieter, into soft whimpers and then smooth sounds of suckling.

“Jo! When has he last eaten? How long has he been crying?”

She doesn't answer, only clutching the pillow closer to her chest, taking a deep breath and inhaling the lingering scent of Alex still left on the pillowcase where his head lay, just that morning, mere hours ago.

Meredith paces the loft, feeding the baby and quietly getting him to sleep before putting him back in the crib across the loft, Ellis’ old one.

Meredith stays, the day, the rest of the week, stays every night, sleeping right next to Jo in the bed and seemingly takes care of them both, watching Jo slip further. She watches as Jo’s routine of getting up with Luca to feed him, clothe him, bathe him, all falter. She sleeps longer, harder. Her appetite fades and her mood fluctuates between being alright and conversing with Meredith to downright anger with her.

Meredith watches the light drain from Jo’s eyes, further and further every day. She watches as Jo starts refusing to take Luca from her for feedings, thus resulting in her having to give him formula. She watches as the bond she knew Jo had with her son, slips right out from under them.

She calls in reinforcements, in the form of Link, who Jo just ends up yelling at them both and barring Link from even being in the loft entirely after stating he was worried about her and concerned for Luca’s well-being.

She yells at Meredith for having the audacity to call Link in the first place, but ultimately decides to let her stay, having no energy to continue fighting with her, or energy to deal with the screaming child in the crib due to the influx of loud voices in the tiny home.

Meredith steps out late that night, calling Alex to inform him on what’s been going on. To ask him for help, to see if he would know what to do.

They gave Jo until the end of the week, gave her room to improve on her actions before Alex returned, but she hadn’t.

She had still been withdrawn and distant. Her son had barely seemed to know her by the end of his almost first month of life. And it broke Meredith’s heart to see such a close friend of hers going through so much heartache.

Alex returned on a Thursday, late in the evening, with a suitcase in hand, to see for himself just how worse for wear Jo really was.

“You left, again.”

The sound of her voice makes them both freeze as Meredith looks up at Jo just as Alex settles himself into the loft, ready to take Luca from his friend.

They both turn and stare at her, not knowing what to say. She’s still lying in the bed, unmoving, not even looking in their direction, he’s surprised she even knew he was there due to the lack of acknowledgement.

She doesn’t say anything else after that, and he apologizes, but there’s really nothing else he could say other than sorry.

He leaves early Monday morning, and Jo’s slight rise in demeanor fades again, and she goes back to the detached shell of a human she’d been.

She doesn’t eat again, doesn’t speak, doesn’t even flinch when Luca cries anymore, and Meredith’s grasping at straws, looking for answers at this point.

“She’s got PPD, Mer. I’ve seen the signs in parents in the NICU. It’s hard, but she was a huge candidate for it. The history of depression, the abandonment issues and past trauma I forced upon her by leaving her,  pregnant and alone. The medical complications with his birth. Almost every risk factor I could name, she’s got.” He says into the phone.

“What do we do? I can’t keep doing this. I can’t watch her as she throws away her life like this, Alex. I can’t watch her become this shell of a person when I knew how happy having a family with you would make her. I know she loves Luca, but I can’t watch her do this to herself anymore.” She’s got the phone wedged between her ear and one shoulder while she props Luca up on the other, patting his back to burp him.

She knows Jo can hear her, and she feels bad, initially, but maybe hearing how this was affecting her too, maybe it would spark something in Jo, she hoped.

“I’m coming back on Friday, I’m taking them both here. I can’t keep missing work, or leaving the kids, but I’m worried about her. I know she does better when I’m around. I don’t know if it’ll help, but they’re both coming here to live with me.” He says, “She doesn’t have a choice. I can’t watch her go through this, knowing I’m the reason why.”

“What about the twins? Have you told them? Izzie?” Meredith questions.

“Iz knows. I told her everything once I came back from the last trip. She’s the one that suggested moving Jo out here, since she’d seemed to do better with me around. And we’d sat the twins down together the other night to tell them about Jo and their baby brother Luca coming to stay at Daddy’s house, and they’d get to see them both when it was my days with them.”  He sighs, and Meredith can only assume he’s rubbing his hand over his face, thinking about the upcoming adjustments for them all. “Izzie even pulled out boxes of old baby things she still kept from the twins. And the new crib will be here on Thursday before I leave. I just need her here, them here. I need her to be okay.”

“She will be, it’s always the darkest before dawn. It’s Jo. You know she’s going to be okay. She just needs a little help.”

Friday hadn’t come fast enough for any of them. And it left Alex in a whirlwind of emotions and things to accomplish and do before the very short weekend was over.

Meredith had helped him so very much. Even Schmidt and Link had too, helping get things from the lot packed quickly, all while Jo had yelled and protested about leaving her home. About how she didn’t need anyone’s help and that she hated each and every single one of them for doing this.

But the moment that Sunday afternoon had rolled around, and Alex stood at the loft door, baby carrier in one hand and suitcase in the other, all hell had broken loose.

Jo had screamed at him, yelling how he couldn’t just take her son away from her. How he was ruining their family and how she hated him.

But Alex had just calmly set the carrier down onto the ground, careful not to wake his sleeping son, and reached out for Jo. He was careful of his actions, making sure she knew he wasn’t going to grab at her making her think he’d hurt her, but instead, he reaches out his hand and rubs her upper arm before she stills, and he takes the moment to pull her fully into his embrace.

He holds her, firmly, yet gentle, as he begins to swipe wisps of hair from her face that had fallen from the tangled bun on the top of her head. “Jo. Jo, listen to me.” He says softly, trying to get her attention. “I’m not taking him from you, I told you this, I promised you this. You’re both coming with me. I can’t be in two places at once, but you need me with you, so I came back here for you, to get you. We’re going to Kansas. We’re going to be a family there, together, remember? Remember what we talked about last night? You’re going to get to meet Eli and Alexis, and they’re going to get to know you, and grow up with their baby brother. They can’t wait to meet you.” He promises.

Her shaking anger starts to dissipate, and his tight embrace loosens as he backs away from her, just enough to look into her eyes. “Can we go now? We don’t want to be late for our flight.” He says softly.

She only nods in response, wrapping both her arms into his, fearing to even let go. He struggles for a moment, wondering how to juggle the baby, Jo, and the suitcase at the top of the loft stairs before ultimately deciding to leave the bag to walk Jo and the baby down to the car before returning to put the suitcase in after.

They return to his house later that evening, and he welcomes her home, hoping that the change of scenery might help.

He settles her in, showing her around before leaving her suitcase in the guest room, watching as the first thing she did was crawl into the bed to sleep.

He lets her, knowing that just traveling alone could wear her out in this state.

He decides on making dinner, her favorite boxed macaroni and cheese, in hopes it would entice her to put something in her body besides the protein bars they’d all been forcing her to eat just to basically survive.

He walks up the stairs with a sleeping, full Luca in one arm and a bowl of the macaroni in his other hand, leaving the bowl on her nightstand before putting the baby in the new crib in his room.

He turns in for the night a few hours later, and just as he’s drifting off to sleep, he feels her slip in bed next to him. He doesn’t say anything, just wraps his arm around her waist and pulls her close, inhaling her scent as he begins to drift off to sleep.

A cry startles him awake, and he turns to roll over and slip out of bed to sooth the baby, but she’s beating him to it, already halfway out of bed.

“I’ve got him.” A quiet whisper into the night.

And he watches as she shuffles across the room in the dark, lifting the baby out of his crib and reaching for the water bottle and container of formula on the changing table next to them, preparing a bottle like it was second nature to her. He watches her pace the room, feeding their son in the dead of night, as if nothing had been wrong.

The three simple words echoing in his ears that change his world. Three simple words that gave him the hope that everything would be okay again.

[kindrednerdspirit]

Sometimes a Thing Feels so Right: Part 4

Excerpt: This revelation, however, is not without its issues, because Casey now finds herself in the tricky situation of knowing it’s best to avoid private moments with Iz, but she also wants private moments with her.

Monday, first block. Casey’s perspective.

It’s 20 minutes before track practice starts and Casey has one goal: avoid any potential private moments with Izzie. Her decision is influenced by her most recent talk with Elsa. In a bizarre turn of events, the universe decided Casey would connect with Elsa on a deeper level twice in one week. Their first talk about Casey’s grandma helped her understand Elsa’s helicopter parenting and why she gets, well, annoyingly intrusive. Their second talk was an accident. A host of Izzie feelings reached a boiling point for Casey and her Izzie issues spilled out in front of Elsa.

For context, this is how it all went down:

The smell of roast fills the Gardner house. Sam works at the kitchen table as Elsa takes dinner out of the oven. He is sketching a new piece for his art class. 

“Sam, honey, do you mind telling your sister that dinner is ready?” Elsa asks as she cuts the roast.

“I do mind. I have to finish this sketch by tomorrow.”

Elsa is not surprised by her son’s very literal answer. He had been in flow for hours, sitting in the same spot since he got home from class. This is not a battle she wants to take part in, so she walks up the stairs to get Casey. Strangely, the door is ajar by a few inches. Curious in a way that any parent is interested in their teenager’s “secret” life, Elsa peers in before announcing dinner is ready. Casey is lying on her bed, curled toward the wall and sniffling.

She acts like she hasn’t been spying, and quietly knocks. “Case, dinner is ready.”

“Uh, sure. I’ll be right down.” Casey’s voice is soft.

Don’t meddle, don’t meddle, don’t meddle. Elsa repeats the phrase over and over in her head as she walks back into the kitchen and takes dinner into the dining room. A few minutes pass before Casey makes her way downstairs.

She sees Sam drawing at the kitchen table. “Why aren’t you eating?”

“I need to finish my sketch. It’s due tomorrow.”

“So, take a 10 minute break, eat, then finish it.”

Sam avoids eye contact and looks at the table the entire time he speaks. “Professor Shinerock says you have to find your peak time to achieve flow. My peak time is in the afternoon around 2:30, so this is when I have to start working on my art, because it’s when I’ll be at my most creative and productive. Professor Shinerock says to continue working in flow state for as long as possible.” 

“You know what else helps creativity and productivity? Not starving.”

“Of course, starving ruins creativity and productivity, because you’d be dead!” Sam tilts his head and furrows his brow. “That’s a ridiculous thing to say.” Without another word, Sam puts on his headphones and returns to his sketch.

“If you’re not eating by the time I’m done dinner, I’m pretending you’re an egg.” Casey walks away with a smile, knowing that Sam did not hear her warning. She sits at the table with Elsa and starts helping herself to potatoes. The two sit in silence for a minute, save for cutlery clanging against their plates.

“Sweets, I know I shouldn’t meddle--”

“So don’t.” Casey finishes.

“--but I’m just going to say one thing, then nothing else. Promise.”

Casey rolls her eyes but let’s her mum continue. Elsa takes a deep breath to collect herself. “You just found out that UCLA is interested in you, but you seem sad. And you haven’t had Izzie over in weeks, you mope around the house, you’re unexpectedly crotchety...”

“Mum!” Casey groans. “Please, get to the point.”

“I don’t know if Izzie is jealous about UCLA scouting you, but whatever is happening between you two... it will sort itself out. Try not to fret too much.”

Casey stares at her plate and pauses to mull over her mum’s words. “How do you know?” She’s afraid to look at Elsa. Afraid that if she does, all her emotions will flood out.

“Because of how you two look at each other. It’s special.” Elsa smiles, reflecting on when she first met Doug. When they first met, they shared the same long stares and goofy smiles as Casey and Izzie. Boy, that seemed like a lifetime ago.

“Thanks.” Casey is surprised by her mum’s kind words. “I don’t know if it will, though.” Her voice cracks. She shuts her eyes, because she can feel the tears forming. Elsa practically leaps out of her seat to embrace her daughter. She kisses Casey’s head, then soothingly brushes back her hair with her fingers.

“She’s… embarrassed to be seen with me.” Casey murmurs.

Elsa nods, knowingly. “I’m sorry, love.” She tucks a strand of hair behind her daughter’s ear. “Not everyone is as confident and comfortable with themselves as you.”

Casey smiles sheepishly and swipes away the tears. Of course, Elsa feels protective of Casey. She doesn’t want anybody breaking her daughter’s heart. At the same time, Elsa also understands Izzie’s situation to a certain extent, making her feel like a protective momma bear toward her, too. They have the shared experience of growing up with an absent parent, and perhaps, similar insecurities. Not to mention that both Casey and Izzie are just beginning to understand their sexual identities, so it's not surprising that this self knowledge is leading to difficult feelings.

Elsa is suddenly very grateful for reading up on parenting tips for LGBTQ+ kids. She chooses her next words carefully, so as not to imply to Casey that she knows about Izzie’s home situation. “Give her time, hon.” 

“I think I love her.” Casey sniffles.

“I know.” 

“Love who?” Doug walks into the room looking for dinner. He just got back from work, and somehow slipped into the house without the girls noticing. The question hangs in the air a few beats too long.

“Uhm, Izzie.” Despite not wanting this conversation to happen in this moment, Casey looks her dad in the eye.

“Yeah, I love her too!” He grins and pulls out a chair, completely oblivious to what is going on. Casey is not sure what to do, so she looks at her mum. The two watch as Doug happily sticks a fork into the roast beef, then proceeds to scoop carrots. The girls stifle some laughter. Maybe it’s best to let this one slide, considering Casey and Izzie’s relationship status is currently unknown.

“What?” Doug asks after noticing the girls’ looks.

“Nothing, Dad. Girl stuff.” Casey looks at her mum as she says it, knowing it will mean something more to her. She then grabs her plate and excuses herself from the table before dropping her dishes in the sink. Sam is still in the kitchen, completely absorbed in his art.

“I warned you!” Casey shouts. “Prepare to be egged!” With that, she scrambles onto Sam’s chair and sticks her butt on his head.

“Hey, stop! What are you doing?!” Sam protests.

“Don’t blame me. You’re the one who compared me to a penguin, so now, you’re my egg.”

“Why would that make me an egg? That makes no sense! You ruined my flow!” They continue squabbling, wrestling, and yelling.

Meanwhile, Doug looks at Elsa with a bemused but impressed expression. “Girl talk? Really?”

Elsa cannot help but beam.

***

Needless to say, when Casey found herself stretching on the field 20 minutes early, it was a calculated move. It’s amazing how saying something out loud can make things so clear. Once she told Elsa that Izzie was embarrassed to be seen with her as her girlfriend, something clicked. Casey could never pretend to be just friends with Izzie, it would never work out. She simply wasn’t the type of person to pretend, the type to play a role, even if it meant keeping Izzie close. 

This revelation, however, is not without its issues, because Casey now finds herself in the tricky situation of knowing it’s best to avoid private moments with Iz, but she also wants private moments with her. 

While she works on her quads, Izzie jogs past and veers off to stretch on her own. She’s wearing the tight Adidas shorts that show off her beautiful curves. Casey always considered her own muscular legs to be tall and lanky, but Izzie’s… they were shapely in all the most appealing ways from her legs to her hips. The same hips she held onto whenever she pulled Izzie close. She fit so comfortably in her embrace, with her delightful warmth and faint smell of vanilla beans.

The best part was when Iz was really close and her chin would dip up. Casey would look down and see the same desire in her eyes as she felt all over her body. A shiver would go down her spine, her breathing would quicken. And everything else would just, sort of, disappear. Fade off into the background. Iz would smile, showing off her button dimples and Casey would want to devour her right then and there for being too adorable.

Oh. My. God. Casey! You have one job. Actually, two jobs. No private moments with Izzie and no getting turned on by Izzie because it’s a slippery slope, my dude. Quick, think of gross things. Zahid kissing Gretchen? Zahid in a robe? Ew, ew, ew! Too far. Poor Zahid. I love the guy for being Sam’s friend, but he’s a serious vagina mood killer.

Izzie looks up from her stretching and their eyes meet. She has the longing eyes and Casey knows exactly what she wants. Shit. It’s too hard, so she looks away. Much too hard. The rest of track practice follows a similar pattern of eyes meeting and diverting. 

***

After 60 minutes of failing miserably at ignoring Izzie, Casey is relieved when Coach blows the whistle. She hustles to the locker room with a few other teammates. Casey is talking to another teammate when Iz jogs over, her high ponytail bouncing with each step. She cannot help but disassociate from the conversation, because she sees the infamous Adidas shorts. And just like that, she’s done for. Blood rushes toward her southern regions. The Zahid tactic fails. Once again, Casey curses her body and heart for betraying her brain. 

“Yo, Newton! Wait up!” Iz shouts.

At the sound of her voice, Casey wavers for a millisecond. She decides to continue listening to her peers, pretending not to hear. But Iz is persistent. Casey’s words from the other night with Elsa race through her head.

She’s embarrassed to be seen with me.

The words are upsetting. There’s so many reasons why, it’s hard to pick only one, but she mostly feels frustrated. Frustrated that she cannot hold or kiss Izzie in public, that she cannot share her love with the world, despite their mutual feelings. Worst of all, she feels the immense hurt that comes with knowing she cannot pretend to be just friends. She hates that it has to be all or nothing. But to do otherwise, would be to betray herself. All these complicated emotions build up inside her until she finds herself towering over Izzie.

“I don’t know how to make this more clear. I don’t want to talk to you.”

Her cold tone surprises even her. She watches Izzie’s eyes widen, then feels her heart clench in response. Despite everything, her instant reaction is to make Iz feel better. And she easily could. Casey could slip her arms around her, up to the small of her back. Then, she could gently pull Izzie toward her and lean in. She could hover in front of her lips to tease Iz, the two sharing the same, delicious air.

“I--”

“Please, don’t follow me.” Casey cuts off Iz with a firm response. She gulps--that was close. Her feet hurry toward the locker room, whisking her away as quickly as possible. She hated feeling like an overdramatic school girl or like she was in some terrible rom-com. Big deal. Just be friends, right? At the same time, though, she knew there was no other way.

[fictionalrambles]

Shadowhunters Fandom Story - Part Eight

Submitted by Contesse2020

Five Fave Fics:

Of Splendor in the Grass by @lecrit​

Why I love this fic: Lecrit was one of the first authors I read fan fiction from. And this one I read in the library at my University, it was packed with people because it was in the middle of exams, and students were stressing with catching up on their curriculum. I was sat in one of the comfy chairs beside a window with a beautiful view of campus covered in snow.

So, I read it in one go. And I just cried and cried, really trying not to have other students notice me. This struck a chord In me, reminding me how brutal history is and how many people around the world still struggle with something as basic as being allowed  to love. I love the authors way of driving the story forward through the protagonist inner life, there is a poetry in the way she writes. Cried some more because of the happy ending - dehydration was on my mind.

I have not dared reread it, the emotional reaction was so strong. I had to go through the fic and try and find some quotes:)

Fave Quotes: 

«Different would have to wait another life»

«Magnus kissed him, and all the poetry in the world paled in comparison. He was home. Free at last»

*

The Lonely Hearts Hotline by @unrestrainedlyexcessive​

Why I love this fic: This fic I have read more times than I care to admit - just love it.

It is actually kind of dark in the emotions and growth Alec goes through, but Fatale always highlight the difficulty with finding yourself.

And even though you reach «adulthood» you don’t need to have your shit together. Which is nice to read since I’m in my thirties and really don’t know anything, that I’m still learning who I am. Not to mention your own agency in your life - don’t let things just happen to you - be active.

The humor is exquisite, I’m laughing like a loon one minute and feeling emotional the next. And of course it is H-O-T as fuck.

The plot is original and fun, it kind of makes you cringe and think OMG Alec - love it. But also it is the nitty gritty of life.  

I really like the dialogue and that is what makes me laugh the hardest. So I will just quote some of those.

Fave Quotes: 

«Jace answers on the first ring. “Dirty Dan's Disposable Dildo Emporium. Suck 'em, fuck 'em, and chuck 'em. This is Dirty Dan speaking.”

“Ahoy, Mort’s Mortuary service. You kill ‘em, we grill ‘em.”

«Early adulthood is no man's land. You don’t have the experience to matter and no one wants to pay you to gain it (…)»

Ain`t that the truth....

*

A Tiny Spark by @magicandarchery​

Why I love this fic: This is my ultimate feel good fic <3 when ever I have read something angsty and painful, I return to this.

Magnus and Alec are in an established relationship trying to make a family, supporting each other - healthy and loving.

Absolutely loved it. We get a heartwarming glimpse into their lives with a newly «adopted» foster child, them being dads - I think I have to read it again, give me those warm and fuzzy feels, please.

Fave Quotes: 

“Just thinking,” Magnus answered, pushing a lock of Alec’s dark hair off of his forehead. Alec’s mouth twitched up at the corners as a sleepy smile played along his lips.

“About what?”

“You.”

“Care to share?” Alec’s eyes opened slowly, and Magnus’ breath caught in his chest the same way it had the first time they had met. Alec’s thumb grazed gently over the outside of Magnus’ hand, and Magnus felt a warm sense of calm spread through him as he entwined his fingers through Alec’s.

Magnus inhaled slowly, deeply. He waited for the flutters of uncertainty to fill him, but instead he felt a different kind of flutter, one of a deep, unending love. Magnus’ tongue darted out, wetting his dry lips, and he tightened his hold on Alec’s hand, centering himself.

When he spoke, Magnus’ voice was barely more than a whisper.

“Marry me?”

Magnus set his phone face down on the table as he spotted Alec and Jace a short distance away, walking toward him, dressed in dark pants and dark t-shirts with the FDNY crest on the chest. Magnus slipped his sunglasses down his nose slightly, a wicked smirk decorating his face when Alec approached the table.

“What’s that look for?” Alec asked, his brow furrowing curiously.

“Just appreciating my man in uniform,” Magnus answered innocently.

*

2C by Oumy

Why I love this fic: Did I mention how much I love a pining Alec? That combined with him being all snarky and (to a degree) self-confident is my holy grail. I love how Alec is portrayed in this, he is vulnerable and honest with his emotions. The way they needle each other is funny as hell. Two of my favorite quotes <3 the last one kicked me so hard in the feels.

Fave Quotes: 

So, there he stood, six foot three of fidgeting human, trying to figure out the right way to ask the love of his life to be his salvation.

They made it outside before Magnus got close enough to Alec’s sleeve and pulled him to a stop, and he wasn’t ready for Alec’s outburst as he turned to him and unleashed “You know what? You’re right. I’m done pretending. I’m done pretending like it’s okay that we take swipes at each other the moment something goes wrong. I’m done pretending like it doesn’t fucking kill me that every word out of my mouth is somehow the wrong one and that I can’t seem to catch a break when it comes to you. I’m done pretending like I hate you for the sake of crumbs of your attention. I’m done pretending like it doesn’t faze me when I have to play the role of the villain because for some reason, that was the only part you allowed me to play in your life. I’m done pretending like I don’t care, like my soul didn’t shrivel inside every time you mistook my reaching out to you for an attempt to fuck you over”

*

Love is a Gamble by @la-muerta​

Why I love this fic: This one is also a historic AU, since I’m a history nerd. A very angsty fic, and I’m here for it. Bring all the pain and all the feels.

I actually had to read «A Tiny Spark» right after - needed some fluff. My heart just broke for Alec and his struggle to accept his attraction to Magnus, so of course there is pining.

Also Izzy is so bad-ass in this, and I love it.

I just fell in love with all of the characters and their backstory. The plot is exciting, with action and the works - keeps you at the edge of your seat. But the best parts were Alec`s quotes - they did me in.

Fave Quotes: 

Alec shook his head, the violent movement reminding Magnus of a distressed horse. "You don't understand anything. I... There's something wrong with us. With me. You have bedded women - you have a choice in this."

"No, Alexander. There's nothing wrong with you, or with me. This is just the way we are, and the only choice I have in the matter is that I chose not to live a lie," Magnus told him firmly.

"When I confronted Aldertree, he asked me if I was a gambling man. I'm not - and never have been. And loving someone, for someone like me, is a bigger gamble than most. But there comes a point when a man's got to stop arguing with himself. I don't want to fight it anymore," Alec said, meeting Magnus' eyes squarely. "I'm not telling you this because I expect you to return my feelings. I know you don't feel that way about me. I just... never mind. I apologise if this has made things between us uncomfortable, I hope we can still be friends-"

[wolvesofinnistrad]

Soulmarks AU part 1

Everyone get’s their soul mark around 16, it’s just common fact.

When Alec turns 16 he scours his body for anything, a small blemish, anything to let him know where his soul mate will first touch him but he can’t find anything.

He’s always feared this day, but before he was worried that it’d be a large handprint or something else that let others know he was gay.

Now he worries he doesn’t have a soul mate at all.

His family tries to console him, that maybe he’s a late bloomer, that maybe his mate isn’t born yet and that’s why he hasn’t gotten one.

That idea is almost worse that he’d be that much older than his mate.

It’s almost 3 months before he realizes he does have a soul mark, it’s just in a place he’s been studiously avoiding.

He’s in the shower, trying to block out the thoughts that always come to him there when he happens to glance down and something looks, strange.

Trembling fingers reach down and brush away the thick hair before he gasps.

He tells himself its just water from the shower streaming down his cheeks, but even he can’t believe that.

It’s hard to see, and afterwards he has to go steal a mirror from Izzy just to be able to see it better, but once he can see more he realizes what it is.

Most people’s marks show up on their hands, handshakes, high fives, things like that being first touches.

Next most common are things like arms, face and back, then less common legs, feet, chest, etc.

Least common are what are called the sexual marks, when your soul mates first touch is somewhere like a breast, your ass, your genitals.

Alec would have never guessed his soul mark would be the shape of lips around the base of his cock.

The moment it fully hits him he finally gives in to the urges he’s fought so long, because he can’t stop thinking about what it means, who it means.

of course he also wonders how in the world the first touch of his soul mate is him being blown.

He can’t imagine any future where he’s confident enough that his first touch with someone is like that.

Some nights he wonders how it’s going to happen and it both scares and thrills him.

It’s barely two weeks before Jace can’t take noticing Alec’s shy, private smiles when he thinks no one is looking and corners him about it.

Alec doesn’t want to admit it at first, but finally he tells Jace, who as usual is incredulous.

“There’s no WAY your soul mark is a stage 3.  NO way!”

Alec, feeling the need to reassure himself it’s real, show just the very hint of it to Jace who promptly loses his mind.

“Your soul mark is LIPS around your COCK!”

Unfortunately his parents happen to hear Jace shouting this which leads to some absolutely mortifying discussions.

After that things slip back to normal, although he always feels the weight of it in others gazes if they know, wondering if he’s going to be some kind of slut that he has a mark like that.

Alec waits and waits, hoping that somehow his mate will find him without any outward mark and his own closeted status, but by the time he’s 24 he’s still a virgin and not out to anyone but his sister so he’s kind of given up hope.

And then Jace begins dating a girl named Clary and starts dragging Alec with him to meet her friends.

They aren’t soul mates, and Alec feels like it’s a waste to get that invested, but he’s trying to be supportive for his brother.

Clary’s best friend, Simon, has just recently met his soulmate Raphael and the group, consisting of them, Alec, Clary, Jace, and then Raphael’s friends Magnus and Meliorn sit around talking when the topic of soul mark comes up.

Jace’s mark is a hand print on his face, which everyone thinks is hilarious and, knowing Jace, seems fitting that his mate would slap him.

Clary’s is the more common hand mark from a greeting.

Simon and Raphael had SImon’s wrist and Raphael’s neck.

Melliorn also has his entire hand marked.

Only Magnus and Alec are left and before Magnus can say anything Jace buts in.

“If we’re really talking interesting soul marks Alec has-”

Alec roughly shoves Jace “Shut up.”

“Oh come on.  It’s the best soul makr I’ve ever seen.  Well, half seen since you won’t let me see the rest of it.”

“I’m nto showing my brother my...” Alec starts before stopping himself, groaning as he’s already given too much away.

“Show your brother what exactly?  Alexander, do you have a sexual mark?” Magnus asks, voice playfully coy.

Alec tries to deny it, but Jace is grinning and nodding like a madman and Alec tosses a pillow at his head.

“Oh I HAVE to know what it is now Alec!”  Simon is practically rabid to find out and Alec is pretty sure he’d rather die than discuss this.

“If you don’t tell them I will.”

“You’re a horrible brother.”

“My mark is me being slapped, and yours is what yours is, tell me who got the rough end?”

Sighing Alec finally gives in.  He dutifully avoids everyone’s gaze as he begins.  “My mark is...  A pair of lips...”

“Where?” Magnus asks.  

Magnus himself has his mark on his lips, but it’s covered up by lipstick at the moment, so it piques his interest.

Not that he thinks Alec is his soul mate, the man is so stuffy that he has to be straight.

Alec groans, glancing to Jace who is on the verge of tears with silent laughter.

“It’s a pair of lips around...  Around my cock.  Like my mate is giving me a blowjob...”

There’s a roar of laughter as the entire group breaks out over this revelation.

“And she must be really good too, because I’ve seen Alec in underwear, he’s a big boy to be lips at the base.”

Jace actually gets punched in the arm at that by Alec, but Magnus doesn’t miss the weird twitch Alec gives off when Jace says “she”

“Laugh it up, at least I’m getting sucked off by my mate...” Alec finally says, trying to salvage some of his reputation, even if he can’t believe he’s just said that.

Once everyone calms down Clary turns to Magnus, “So what is yours Magnus?”

All eyes turn to him before Magnus smiles and grabs a napkin.

“Funny enough, mine is also lip related,” he says with a smirk.  Slowly he wipes away his bright purple lipstick to reveal dark soul marks covering his entire lips.

Alec can’t help but gulp and cough, because while he could clearly just be kissing his mate, there’s no mistaking that Alec has always known his own soul mate would have to have their soul mark covering their lips.

And, well, Magnus is the most gorgeous man he’s ever met, evne if he’s done his best to barely look at him.

Except now that he’s heard that he can’t do anyhting but look at him, having to pry his eyes away.

Magnus eventually catches him and he looks away, feeling heat creep into his cheeks, but when he glances back Magnus is still staring at him.

Alec is thankful that Raphael says he needs to go soon after, and since he drove most of them here, that means they have to leave.

Everyone exchanges pleasantries as they prepare to leave.

IN an attempt to be a little shit, Meliorn gently pats Jace on his cheek as he leaves  with a playful “see you around blondie.”

It’s only a moment later when Jace and Meliorn both freeze as Meliorn walks away that everyone stops to stare at them.

Jace is touching his face with just his fingertips, right over his soul mark.

As they watch the mark begins to fade.

Meliorn turns around looking confused, his hand raised as his mark is fading at the same rate.

“I’m not even gay, what the fuck?!” Jace shouts as he turns to Meliorn.

Meliorn just smirks, “Wouldn’t be the first straight boy I’ve turned.”

Alec is, not surprisingly, the most shocked of anyone that isn’t Jace, since he’s never even heard Jace mention another man was attractive as a joke.

“This...  Cannot be happening,” Jace says, looking from Meliorn to Clary

“Like, it has to be a mistake right, right Alec?”

Alec just stares at Jace, then to Meliorn and back to Jace.  “Uh, I’ve never heard of a soul mark disappearing without meeting your mate and having it touched.”

“If its any consolation, plenty of people don’t realize their latent bisexual tendencies until later in life,” Magnus says, “I mean I’ve always known I was a raging bisexual, but it’s not as easy for others.”

Hearing that definitely make Alec’s stomach flip, but he tries to ignore it.

“But, if I was gay I could do so much better...” Jace says, let down..

“Like I’d have picked a puny blond white fucboi as my mate?” Meliorn says, but he’s grinning.

“Shut it you asshole!”

“Make me.”

“Oh I’ll make you I’ll shut your entire mouth up I’ll...” Jace stops, realizing he’s gotten right in Meliorn’s face.

“Uh... I, what I meant was, um,” Jace panics, but before he can do anything to back away Meliorn grabs him and kisses him hard.

For about 3 seconds Jace seems like he’s going to bolt, then he very clearly moans and grips Meliorn’s arm and kisses back.

Alec’s jaw drops, Clary looks like she’s about to cry, Magnus and SImon are both cheering and Raphael looks bored.

When they finally break apart Jace looks dazed, it takes him a minute to process before he turns to the group and simply says “Well, I’m definitely Bi.”

Clary actually starts crying then, running off and Magnus gives one last lingering look at Alec that makes Alec’s heart beat faster before running after her.

Alec goes home alone, laying in bed wondering how both he and Jace didn’t realize this.  He tells Izzy only enough that she knows Jace broke up with Clary at the party and that Clary, who she still hasn’t met, was inconsolable.

The next day he sees Jace trying to sneak in the house before breakfast and he opens the door for him and hands him some coffee.

“Really?  The first night Jace?  Yesterday you didn’t even think you were attracted to guys.”

Jace has hickies all over his neck, along with what look like bite marks.

“What can I say, I’m a fast learner.”  He winks at Alec and takes a long swig of coffee..

“Besides, like you can talk Mr. my girl is gonna suck me off the first time we meet.”

“Not my girl.”

“I mean she’ll be your girl after it happens.”

“No, I mean.  It’d be my guy.  My soulmate has to be a guy, I’m gay Jace.”

“WHAT?!”

“Why do you sound more shocked to find out I’m gay than you did to find out you yourself were bi?”

“Because you’re...  You!  You're like, the straightest person I know!”

Alec grimaces at that.

“I’m not sure how to respond to that”

“YOu know what I mean, most gay guys are all sparkly and fun and sexually liberated and shit.”

“Way to stereotype Jace.”

“I’m just saying you don’t seem gay.”

“Well I’m sorry Im not constantly sucking a cock Jace but I mean... I am gay.”

“What in the world did I just walk in on?” Izzy asks, rounding the corner into the kitchen.

“uh, Alec was just, um” Jace stammers, trying to cover for his older brother.

“She knows I’m gay JAce, its fine.”

“Oh thank God,” Jace sighs. Then, “Wait, you told her and not me!”

“I figured it out, it’s not that hard.”

“Funny since Jace just called me the straightest person he’s ever met.”

“Well, I mean, if you just took everything you did at face value, sure, he’s right.”

Alec turns to Izzy with a stern look.

“I’m just saying, it’s a very convincing façade you’ve created Alec.”

“Well anyway, I guess that means we’re down to only one straight sibling,” Jace says, laughing.

“Yes, it’s a pity only women have to deal with you Jace.”

Alec and Jace both share a look then turn back to Izzy.

“Wait...”

“Iz?”

“Oh come on, please tell me you both didn’t think I was straight!”

“Gaydar machine really, really broken,” Alec says, patting himself down like he’s lost it.

“Hey at least you knew you were gay Alec, you should have caught this, I’m new to this shit.”

That makes Izzy turn to Jace, “What does THAT mean?”

Jace smirks, and it’s only then Izzy realizes his soulmate mark is gone.

“Oh my god, your mark is gone!  When, who?”

“Last night.  His name’s Meliorn.  I call him Mel.”

“HIS name!  You’re Bi?”

“Apparently.”

“You didn’t know?”

Jace laughs, “I mean I always said I was everyone’s type, I just didn’t know everyone was my type.”

Alec groans along with Izzy at that joke before he realizes.  “Wait, so none of us are straight?”

“No.”

“Clearly not.”

“Wow, our parents are REALLY going to be angry when they find out.” Alec says.

“Totally unfair I’m going to take the brunt of it since I met my guy first.”

“Please, you literally got to find out you were Bi the moment it happened, I’ve had internalized homophobia since I was 11,” Alec deadpans.  “Get on my level.”

“I mean we can just all, tell them together?  They still have one shot at a straight kid with Max I guess.”  Izzy looks both nervous and excited about the prospect.

“The odds aren’t looking good for Max,” Jace says, and they all crack up before hugging.

[dingletragedy]

you and i are gonna live forever - 6k

robert meets aaron when he's 16, the world and his dad against him, but aaron never once leaving his side. that is until he moves to scotland, leaving aaron with a broken heart and 5 years of misery.

due to unfortunate circumstances, robert has no other choice but to move back home, will he be able to win aaron back or is 5 years too late?

{for the anon who prompted “i’m never leaving you again” & estranged lovers / italics indicate past} 

At twenty-five, Robert Sugden’s life is suddenly turned upside-down, not only has he lost his job but he’s also been kicked out of his one bedroom flat in central Scotland, leaving him with no choice but to return back home.

Robert was tempted to use the very last of his pay on a flight out to Spain, in the hope his Nan would put him up for a while, that way he wouldn’t have to deal with a bruised ego and a sea of disappointed faces back in Emmerdale. Because as things were, everything in his life was going to shambles.

In his 5 years away Robert had gained a degree in Economics from the University of St. Andrews, and the experience of working in Burger King for two years.

Admittedly Burger King wasn’t ever his dream job, not by a long stretch of the imagination, but finding a post-grad job wasn’t as easy as Robert had once anticipated, and he’d been desperate for the money.

That being said, he’d of much preferred to stay working at Burger King for his entire life than have to return home.

It’s a shame he got sacked, really.

But it wasn’t Roberts fault is boss what a dickhead, was it? If there’s one valuable lesson he’d learnt at that hell-hole, it’s that tyrants help build you - but they don’t mind throwing you away.

He’d miss Scotland, the people more than anything. He’d met some amazing people - made friends for life he’d say. He’d even had a couple of girlfriends along the way, boyfriends too, but nothing ever stuck.

He couldn’t stick with anyone long enough for the relationships to become serious because he always found himself comparing them to him.

And nothing ever compared to him.

—

It takes Robert almost an hour to actually get moving. His feet seem to have a mind of their own, slipping on the pedals until the car stalls again and again. He can barely keep his fingers wrapped around the wheel with the way they’re trembling.

Once he’s on the road, the journey seems to fly past, he sees the sign before he wants to.

Emmerdale Village - Four Miles

And it only intensifies the fear bouncing around in his stomach.

He’d phoned Vic last night, pleaded his case, but as it happened, he didn’t have to do too much pleading at all - his sister ecstatic at the idea of have her older brother stay with her.

He hadn't seen Vic in such a long time, not since his graduation two years earlier. They’d spoken on the phone once a week religiously, but it wasn’t quite the same, was it?

He steers off the concrete road and onto the gravel driveway. Every bump and lump of it feels familiar, somehow, bringing with it a steady trickle of memories he’d been hoping to avoid.

He sits on the driveway of Keeper’s Cottage - the place Vic had made her home. He could’ve never imagined any of the Sugden children living anywhere other than the farm, but when their Dad passed away a couple of years ago he reckons they all lost that sense of home it once provided for them - Vic and Andy more so than Robert.

He takes one last deep breath and cuts the engine. It’s now or never.

Vic’s on him before he’s even got both feet in the door, smothering him like he’s just returned from war and not bloody university.

“Oh Robert, I can’t believe you’re finally home,” The smile on her face is bright enough to make Robert think this was a good idea.

For all of three seconds, that is.

Because Vic just has to go and mention Aaron, doesn’t she?

“Aaron and Adam are just upstairs, they’re stopping for tea.” She says, voice so casual Robert wonders if he misheard her.

“Aaron?” Robert questions, panic consuming his entire being.

“Yes Aaron, you know - that lad you were completely in love with before you broke his poor heart.” Vic mocks, no heat behind her words.

“Don’t Vic.” Robert hisses, and Vic must pick up on the pain laced in this voice, or the heartache playing on his face, because her smile drops almost instantly, eyes wide with concern.

“I thought you were over that? I thought you’d found yourself a leggy blonde? Izzy, wasn’t it?”

“Didn’t work out.”

“Oh,” Is all Vic has to say, and Robert knows she understands.

---

There was a quiet knock on his door, the sound of nervous feet shuffling outside.

“Come in, Vic,” Robert had called out, his voice sounding hoarse even to his own ears.

Vic peers her head around Robert’s bedroom door, she isn’t surprised to see the room basked in darkness - Robert’s red and blotchy face the only thing visible to her eyes.

“Sorry I just - well - I could hear you crying, are you okay?”

“Not really,” Robert states honestly.

“Why? I thought you were excited about Uni? It’s alright if you’ve changed your mind on going, you know” She just wants what's best for her Brother, wherever that may be. “Dad won’t be angry” She emphasises. They might try to shield her from it, but she’s more than aware of the rift between the two of them.

“It’s not - it’s not that.” And Robert has no idea where his sudden openness has come from, but he could really use someone to talk to right now.

Vic perches herself on the end of Robert’s bed, places a comforting hand on Robert’s thigh and gives him the strength he needs to continue.

“It’s Aaron. He hates me”

“Aaron could never hate you Rob, he’s your best mate.”

“He’s not”

“Isn’t he?” Vic questions, crease in her brow.

“He’s so much more than that, Vic.” Robert says, voice cracking with emotion, tears spilling once again.

And Roberts scared - of course he is, he’s never come out to anyone before, but when Victoria scoops him up in her arms and tells him she loves him no matter what, he forgets all his fears and worries for a while, and basks in the acceptance and love of his little sister.

---

continue reading here

[asharee-arie]

Falling Seems So Easy

Read here on Ao3.

"I'm going to murder you,” Alec hisses at Jace, stabbing his brother in the arm with the swizzle stick from his drink for good measure. “First you drag me out to the bar for this stupid group hang,” the sarcasm dripping off his tongue at the words group hang made his feelings about this particular endeavor crystal clear, “And then you let me get sucked into a thirty-minute conversation with Raj who apparently thinks we’re meant to be. I just had to break up with someone I wasn’t even dating!”

“Woah, buddy, calm down.” Jace pats his back in a way that is probably meant to be reassuring but only serves to further narrow Alec’s already annoyed gaze. 

Alec forces himself to take a deep breath and remember that Jace is his brother whom he loves. Of course, his attempts to calm his ire are shot to hell when Jace continues with, “Sounds like you were maybe giving out some mixed signals at work.”

“I bought him lunch. Once!” Alec cries, attempting to stab Jace with the swizzle stick again, missing as his brother recoiled on his bar stool. Normally, Alec likes to refrain from indulging in this type of childish behavior, but it has been a day and stabbing Jace feels vaguely therapeutic.

“Stop it!” his brother yelps attempting to swat the stir stick out of Alec’s vengeful hands. “Don’t blame me because you accidentally started dating someone without realizing it!”

Alec huffs in a few long breaths because otherwise he is going to shove the swizzle stick up Jace’s nose and attempt to lobotomize him which, on second thought, might actually improve Jace’s personality. Before his revenge plot can fully materialize, Izzy slides onto the stool next to him with a cheery grin.

“You look positively murderous, big brother.”

The obvious glee in her tone makes him shake his head in mild amusement. Only Izzy would think walking into the line of fire constituted a good time. 

Jace leans around him to fist bump Izzy in greeting, his words making Alec groan. “Alec is just feeling salty because he had to break up with his coworker.”

Izzy’s eyes go wide with disbelief as she slaps him on the shoulder, “You had a boyfriend and didn’t tell me?!”

“No,” Alec grinds out between clenched teeth, “We weren’t dating. My coworker is just delusional and thinks lending him a quarter for the vending machine is a step down the path of true love.”

“Been there, hermano.” Izzy puts a consoling arm around his waist and rests her head on his shoulder while flagging down the bartender for a drink. “We Lightwoods are irresistible.”

Alec can’t hold back his laugh as she gestures toward Jace and winks, “Well except him. I think everyone can resist Jace.”

“Not Clary,” the blonde proclaims proudly scanning the crowd for a glimpse of his red-haired lady love. Not, Alec acknowledges with an amused grin, that Clary seems aware of her status as Jace’s beloved.

The fiery redhead knocked Jace on his proverbial ass the moment she’d moved into the apartment across the hall from theirs. His usually charming, smooth brother had disappeared in the face of her blindingly wide smile and he hadn’t reappeared since. Between Jace’s unprecedented lack of game and Clary’s seeming obliviousness to his feelings, all his former attempts to ask her out had gone hilariously askew.

On one memorable occasion, Jace ended up on a dinner date with Clary’s best friend, Simon, after Jace went overboard in his attempt to woo her in the style of the Spice Girls. It’s time tested advice Jace had argued the next day If I want to be her lover, I need to get with her friends. Platonically.

Izzy inclines her head in thanks as the bartender delivers her glass of Cabernet before directing another smirk at Jace and moving in for the kill, “Aren’t we here because Clary didn’t realize that you were asking her on a date and thought it was a group thing?”

The reminder makes Jace frown slightly before he shrugs it off and resumes grinning with his normal sense of inflated self-confidence. “A minor setback,” he concedes stealing a sip of Izzy’s wine, “I’m planning to be so charming tonight that she’ll ask me out on a date herself. Problem solved.”

Alec feels his lingering irritation fade as he listens to his siblings bicker good-naturedly. The familiar back and forth is a welcome distraction after a truly terrible week of work, his second rum and Coke further helping to smooth out the rough edges of the night.

Beside him Jace suddenly lurches to his feet, his arms waving enthusiastically as he spots Clary weaving through the crowd toward them. The petite redhead is flanked by the ever-present Simon, whose presence makes Izzy sit up straighter on her stool and fluff her curls. 

Normally, Alec would take the opportunity to rib his self-possessed sister for her unusually obvious level of interest, but all coherent thoughts vanish as his eyes catch on the truly glorious man to Clary’s left. He is, well, perfect if Alec is being honest. He glitters all the way from his bedazzled high tops to his elegant cheekbones, his rainbow highlighter shimmering under the lights. 

“Izzy,” he hisses out of the corner of his mouth, “Who is that?”

“Magnus? He’s Clary’s co-worker. Hot, right?”

The distracted, off-hand way she relays the information makes Alec frown in betrayal. She’s been aware that this beautiful man exists and has never once attempted one of her ridiculous matchmaking schemes on his behalf. It is downright rude, he decides.

“You are unbelievable.”

The dramatic whispered accusation causes Izzy’s left eyebrow to arch as she drags her attention off the bespectacled nerd she seems to find attractive to look at her brother. “Excuse me?”

“You have tried to set me up with four different people this week alone and yet you’ve never even mentioned that Clary has him for a coworker?”

“I wasn’t sure he was your type.” A wide, pleased smile sweeps over her face, “Clearly, I was wrong.”

“He is everyone’s type.”

“My baby is growing up.”

Izzy’s teasing coo makes Alec cringe even as his eyes refuse to stop studying every inch of Magnus from the tips of his artfully-styled hair to his long, slim fingers to the somehow adorable hint of ankle peeking out above his shoes.  Alec is aware that he is being entirely too obvious about his interest, his siblings will never let him live this down, but it is hard to feel anything but warm as Magnus glides to a stop in front of him.

“And who might you be?”

The question is all but a purr, and Alec is embarrassed to find himself instinctively leaning closer.

Alec opens his mouth to say something, anything really, when Magnus unleashes a lethally bright smile, all sparkling eyes and full lips, effectively short-circuiting all of Alec’s remaining brain cells.

“How are you real?” he blurts out, his face scrunching up in abject embarrassment even as the words fly out of his mouth. “I mean, I’m, uh, Alec.”

A shocked giggle escapes Izzy. “Smooth, Alec, smooth.”

“Abort, buddy,” Jace coughs behind him.

“Biscuit,” Magnus drawls out without ever breaking eye contact with Alec, “I’m suddenly feeling a bit put out with you for not introducing us sooner.”

“Join the club.”

Alec’s cheeks heat as he realizes the words in his head are still managing to slip past his lips.

He’s doing the math on how quickly he can make a break for the exit because, really, Alec cannot be trusted to be in polite company right now, when Magnus throws back his head and lets out the most charming throaty chuckle. The sound slips over Alec’s senses like satin, smooth and inviting, enticing him to stay. 

His brain is still struggling to come back online when Magnus takes another step closer, forced to tilt his chin up marginally to maintain their eye contact, “Is Alec short for Alexander?”

“Yep, but nobody calls him that.”

Magnus ignores Jace completely and holds out a hand in invitation, “Buy me a drink, Alexander?”

Alec manages a jerky nod as he tangles their fingers together. Magnus pulls him forward with a teasing yank that brings them close enough for Alec to feel the warmth of the other man against his chest.

“Guys, this is like one step away from being inappropriate.” Jace’s complaint falls flat when he instantly follows it up with a lascivious wink and an all too unsubtle thumbs up in Alec’s direction.

Izzy elbows Jace, “Shut it, Jace. They’re sweet. This story is going to make my toast at their wedding so easy to write."

Alec sputters helplessly as his siblings ignore all social norms and launch into a heated debate regarding which of them most deserves to be Alec’s best man at his hypothetical wedding to the gorgeous, tanned man standing before him.

“I’m a man,” Jace argues with an edge of condescension that usually ends in bloodshed (by Izzy’s hand, of course). “It’s literally in the name - best man. Chicks not included.”

Izzy scoffs, her expression shifting into something that Alec can only describe as bloodthirsty, “I’m his favorite sibling.” 

She shrugs as if to say case closed.

Jace gasps in outrage. “Take that back,” he orders before turning to Alec. “Tell her that I’m your favorite.”

Clary and Simon watch the volley of words with matching wide-eyed delight as Alec wishes desperately for the Earth to swallow him whole.

“Guys,” Simon starts cautiously, obviously unsure if he should enter the fray, “Maybe, we should all get a drink?”

“Soon,” Izzy promises him with a sweet smile that turns sharp as she focuses her attention back on Jace. “There’s no way that Alec trusts you to give the best man speech. Your brain to mouth filter doesn’t exist.”

“Alec’s isn’t working so great right now either,” Jace shoots back belligerently.

“Kill me now,” Alec mutters under his breath, screwing his eyes shut. He feels the beginnings of a headache pounding behind his eyes. It is just his luck that not only does his brain seem incapable of forming complete sentences when it comes to Magnus but that his siblings have also gone full Lightwood.

A tender stroke across his palm makes Alec’s eyes fly back open to meet Magnus’ warm, amused expression. 

“I’m sorry about them,” Alec whispers desperately trying to convey with his eyes that his siblings’ insane behavior is unsanctioned, and he shouldn’t be held responsible for the tornado of insanity currently swirling around them.

The soft, teasing strokes don’t stop as Magnus’ lips twist up in a smirk, “Well, darling, it’s your choice of course, but the lovely Isabelle seems the obvious choice. She’d look amazing in a tux.”

Izzy’s triumphant yell and Jace’s indignant gasp are little more than white noise as Alec raises their interlaced hands to press an uncharacteristically bold kiss to Magnus’ knuckles. “Perhaps we should just elope,” he says under his breath.

Magnus' eyes glint with humor, and perhaps just a hint of something heavier, as he smiles up at Alec. "I have a feeling, Alexander, that I might take you up on that someday."

Something settles in Alec at the words. A warm possibility surging through his veins until it tumbles out of his mouth in a delighted laugh that only makes Magnus' eyes shine brighter.

"You guys, I ship this so hard."

Alec startles, his attention abruptly shifting off Magnus to their friends who are all watching him with various levels of disbelief plastered on their faces.  Simon is grinning like a dope, clearly proud of himself for his announcement, while Izzy beams proudly looking ready to start a slow clap in his honor at any moment.

"I think," Alec says slowly, well aware that his face is somewhere between besotted and adoring, "That we should go get that drink now. Alone."

Magnus' smile is bright, happy and wide as he allows Alec to tug him away from their friends. "You read my mind, darling."

And, if some day, Izzy does tell this story at their wedding, Alec finds that he doesn't mind. 

[bussanbaby]

It’s barely past eight in the morning when Izzy unlocks the door to her own little corner of the Institute, a hybrid of a workshop and an office. It’s a recent development, entirely of Alec’s doing after she mentioned wanting to get back into weapon engineering. So far the immersive work has been a great source of joy and pride for Isabelle, allowing her to focus, reinvigorate despite the difficult tasks, grow even stronger in her recovery.

She loves the space he’d put together for her under her guidance - one part of it includes a large desk, a loveseat in the corner and a couple of shelves with all the books she could list. The other half is comprised of a work bench currently cluttered with misshapen pieces of metal that in the end will come together as her double-arrow crossbow, as well as her tools and materials, most of those safely stored away in large cupboards tucked against the stone walls.

Hanging her jacket over the back of the swivel chair, Izzy sets her hands on her hips, mentally compartmentalizing everything that begs for her attention - finishing all the budget amendments for the Head to include in this month’s report, finally getting done with that stubborn blueprint for tracking arrows, and if she’s feeling extremely productive - kicking Clary’s ass in double-handed staffs training.

She sets to work after putting her hair up into a messy bun, but she barely gets a few sentences into the report, when there’s a knock on her door - three quick raps, easily recognizable as her older brother.

“Come in,” she answers, a subtle sort of excitement blooming through her chest. She hasn’t had the chance to see him properly lately, as they’ve both been busy with respective work; it would be a lie to say she doesn’t miss him.

The door creaks open and Alec pokes his head into the office, cell phone trapped against his ear, his other hand busy with a tray holding two coffee cups to go. He hums to let the person on the other side of the call know he’s listening, eyebrows drawn together in focus.

“Are you busy?” he mouths to Izzy and she shakes her head ‘no’ vigorously, causing a couple of rebel curls to slip out, messily framing her face. There’s an almost imperceptible quirk of his mouth, a smile anyone not aware of Alec’s habits would miss entirely.

He shoulders the door closed and wraps up the conversation after everything seems to be confirmed, perching on the edge of her desk as he does so. Izzy rounds the piece of furniture, also choosing to lean against the sharp edge, since it feels less professional and just more like the two of them talking.

It’s when she notices the outfit in its full glory - dress pants patterned with dark green plaid, cropped above his ankles and tapered at the bottom - a definite statement piece if Izzy knows anything about fashion (and she does). The rest of the outfit is black - polished wingtip oxfords, a dress shirt buttoned to the top and a long coat thrown over his shoulders.

While it’s still elegant in a way that fits Alec’s personal style of comfort and practicality, it makes her brother seem like he stepped off the runway no more than two minutes ago. There’s a presence to him, the confidence of a leader, quiet control alongside his usual sternness and the watchful way he holds himself; all of it is softened by his ruffled hair and the subtle silver glitter of jewelry.

“Look at you! You’re giving me a run for my money as the best-dressed Shadowhunter in NY, big bro,” she greets him with a quip, oxblood-colored lips stretching into a cheeky grin. “Note that I graciously said ‘Shadowhunter’.”

A full smile blooms on Alec’s face as he casts down his eyes in almost unconscious modesty, but she can feel him settle comfortably against the words. Just a while ago, at any personal comment she would make, he’d curl in on himself and bristle the spikes stuck in his armor; he’d snap and huff and roll his eyes, anxiety moving through him in jagged ways. The ever-famous eye roll is still a popular classic, but now it’s usually directed at Jace or Clary after some sort of reckless shenanigans, at Izzy when she gets into trouble, and often at all the Shadowhunters he’s got to keep in check.

He’s different these days, yet somehow the same.

“Oh, I know, nobody’s taking Magnus’ crown on that front,” Alec answers with a quiet chuckle, then stretches the arm holding the coffee towards her. “Got you your favorite one.”

Izzy takes the cup with her name messily scribbled on it in black marker, recognizing the logo from a small hole-in-the-wall café that makes the best lattes. Just one sip warms her from the inside, all of the rich flavors making her eyes dip closed for just a moment.

Alec’s watching her already when she opens them again - there’s a pleasant expression on his face that she can’t fully interpret, the edges of all the emotions blurring together. She raises her eyebrows in a silent question, but Alec just takes a gulp of his own coffee, eyes drifting towards the work table across from him.

“So, how is my favorite sibling doing?” Alec asks nonchalantly as he crosses his ankles with a sly smile, clearly in no rush to leave; Izzy doesn’t want him to anyway.

She laughs into the lip of her cup and leans over to lightly smack him on the shoulder.

“Better not tell that to Jace, huh?” she teases, taking another sip of her coffee.

Alec pulls his shoulders into a shrug, one corner of his mouth curved up. “What the ears don’t hear, the heart doesn’t grieve over.”

“Mister Lightwood, that’s mean!” Izzy feigns offense in the name of her other brother, hand poised over her lips in mock-shock.

Alec laughs at that, throwing his head back, eyes crinkling into adorable crow’s feet at the corners.

“‘Mean’ is my middle name, according to some people around here.”

“No, that’s Gideon.”

The joke earns Isabelle a slow look of disapproval, then Alec sighs theatrically and reaches for her drink as if he has no other choice. “I got you coffee because I love you, but now I need to rethink that decision.”

“No!” Izzy slips out under Alec’s arm in fits of laughter and he gives another half-hearted attempt at pulling her back, fingers snagging in the collar of her shirt. She lets herself be drawn closer until she’s able to wrap her arms around Alec beneath his coat, careful of her drink she’s still holding onto.

She tucks herself up against her brother’s side, just the perfect size to rest her head on his shoulder. Alec’s arms come up around Isabelle and she feels the safest she could ever be, in the embrace of the person that was always stood by her, even in her darkest moments when all she could think about was yin fen and the pain it caused. He never judged her for anything, instead took care of her and loved her all the same. Truthfully, she probably wouldn’t even be here without him.

It’s nothing she didn’t know already, but the realization makes her chest hurt with all that she feels - love, gratitude, faith, so much more than that. She’s always looked up to him; from the very first day she remembers, Alec was right by her side, holding her little chubby toddler hand, training with her when they were big enough to do so, always listening to her even when he was worn down himself. She knows he would do anything for her - give up all that he has to keep her smiling.

She’d do the same for him without hesitation.

Alec’s been miserable until Magnus came into his life - frustrated, terrified, stuck inside the cage this society built around him. And perhaps she wasn’t able to be the one to pull him out of that, to help him realize he’s so much more than a soldier and a son - someone who deserves his own happiness and the space to spread his wings; she’s still glad to be there for him, watch him flourish and grow into the person he was always meant to be.

He may seem different, but he’s the same Alec she’s known forever, just happy.

Of course, they’ve had good moments where they laughed together and sassed each other, and had days where everything seemed alright, but there was always an underlying current of something missing. Alec would never mention it, but she could see it in the slouched angle of his shoulders, in the way he stood rigidly with his eyes trained on the floor each time their parents spoke to him, in the way he’d come from training with bruised skin and reddened eyes.

Now, he talks to Izzy more - about his life, about himself and the way he feels, even if some details stay forever a secret, huddled close to his heart. She’s completely okay with that - she’s just glad he knows he can confide in her whenever he needs to. 

He tells her about his dates and life with Magnus, promises to take her sightseeing in Rome with them the next time they go, gossips about Clave executives and all the dumb laws he has to try and fix with the Council’s help; he mentions his better contact with mom and laughs about somehow lucking out again to find himself friends with people like Luke, Cat, Maia, and Simon.

Izzy talks too - she mentions the mundane meetings and how sometimes it gets hard, but she pulls through, for herself and for others. She talks about hanging out with Maia and Simon as well, about training Max to be the best he can. Once she confesses how strange it is to be back in the swing of things, yet how ecstatic that makes her.

She tightens her grip around Alec’s chest, swallowing around the cluster of emotions stuck in her throat, just as he drops a kiss on top of her head.

“What are you thinking, Iz?” he asks, affection and genuine curiosity easy to spot in his tone, low and rumbling beneath her ear.

She glances up at him, smiles wide and honest, considering all the words wanting to be said, all the ‘thank you’s and ‘I’m sorry’s and all the secrets he doesn’t know yet, but someday will.

“I’m glad to have you by my side, big brother.”

His expression softens, becomes vulnerable in the way he allows himself to be only around those who mean the world to him. Setting his cup on the edge of her desk, Alec kisses her forehead, his hands warm against the sides of her face.

“It’s always been us against the world, hasn’t it?” he hums after a moment of quiet.

And he’s right; it’s always been them, Alec and Izzy, a brother and a sister who disagree on everything, except how much they love each other.

[takaraphoenix]

I would love to see “That’s my ex-boyfriend/girlfriend.” - “Well, kiss me so they see.” with Alec and Magnus :)

Alec was having anexceptionally crappy morning.

First of all, his phone haddied on him because he had forgotten to charge it, so his alarmdidn’t go off and he only woke up when his roommate Raj knockedobnoxiously on his door, knowing that Alec had meant to be awake atleast an hour earlier than that.

He had attempted to preparea quick breakfast for himself, knowing already that he would have tohurry because he had a paper to hand in this morning. Said paper hadbeen laying on the table, neatly piled up and ready to be taken out.

Raj had spilled coffee all over Alec’spapers, which he should have handed in today by 10AM – and in thatmoment, it had already been 9AM. Cussing, Alec got ready to print itout again. Only that they were out of ink.

So Alec had to rush to the next bestplace with a printer - also known as his best friend Jace’s.

Jace lived off-campus with hisboyfriend Simon. Jace hadn’t been home, early classes and all. ButAlec had the keys to the apartment. Where he found Simon, butt-nakedin the kitchen, dancing and singing. And since Alec had comeunannounced and Simon had been alone at his own home, Alec didn’teven have a right to be angry about that unwanted image stuck in hishead.

At least he got to use their printer,which was a small blessing.

Then he rushed back to campus,because the deadline had been dreadfully close at that point. Thesecretary, Lydia Branwell, was a personal friend of Alec’s, so shegladly just slipped his ten-minute-late paper into the pile with theothers, even though Professor Aldertree was very strict and didn’teven accept two minute late hand-ins usually.

She was an angel and deserved a rewardfor that, which was why Alec instantly went out to the best coffeeshop nearby to get her her favorite brew and a doughnut as a thankyou.

Of course did it start raining as soonas Alec was out of the office building to head to said shop.

Which brings us to the now.

The now being a moment where Alec,soaked to the bone, not having had coffee or food today despitehaving been awake for three hours now, standing in line to get twocoffees and two doughnuts while trying to mentally erase the image ofa naked Simon Lewis from his mind.

Honestly, there was very little thatcould in any way or shape save this day.

“Hello, do you mind if I kiss you?”

Okay, Alec took that back. A gorgeousguy with a beautiful smile asking to kiss him might just savethis day. Though he wasn’t really sure if this was actuallyhappening?

“Uhm, excuse me?”, grunted Alecconfused.

“Ah. Sorry”, laughed the othersheepishly. “I’m Magnus Bane. My ex cheated on me while on asemester abroad in Russia. Now that she’s back, she seriously thinksI’d take her back. See the girl over there with the overlyflirtatious smile? That’s my ex-girlfriend.”

He recognized the girl. Camille. Sheused to be somewhat friends with Raphael and Simon until they finallycut the toxic out of their life. The woman had nearly destroyed Simonand Jace’s relationship. Whoever Magnus Bane was, he definitelydeserved better than that.

“Well, kiss me so she sees”,grunted Alec without a second thought.

Later on, when frantically pacing hisbedroom after having sent a dozen texts to Lydia, Jace and his sisterIzzy, he would be blaming the lack of food, sleep and coffee in hissystem for that answer.

Magnus offered him a blinding smile andleaned up, one hand on Alec’s upper arm, his breath warm againstAlec’s neck as Magnus slowly reached up. Camille had gotten up fromher chair and was walking toward them. And then Magnus’ lips were onAlec’s and Alec’s brain went bye-bye.

They were soft and tasted like cherriesand chocolate - probably what Magnus had eaten before, this café hadawesome Black Forest muffins. Magnus’ grip on his arm was oddlygrounding and the other hand pressed flat against Alec’s chest feltrather curious.

“Hello, darling! I’m so glad youcould make it”, said Magnus against his lips as they parted.

“…Wouldn’t want to miss this forthe world”, muttered Alec a bit dazed.

Camille huffed wide-eyed as she watchedthem before turning on her heels and essentially storming out of thecafé. Magnus still had his hand on Alec’s chest.

“You’re a great kisser”, hummedMagnus, eyes sparkling.

“…So are you”, nodded Alecslowly.

“Let me buy you a coffee as a thankyou”, smiled Magnus. “I’m sorry, but I don’t think I caught yourname?”

“Alec. Alexander. AlexanderLightwood”, got Alec out after a couple attempts.

“Not a morning person, Alexander?”,guessed Magnus amused.

“It’s been kind of a messy morning”,offered Alec.

“Then you definitely deserve acoffee”, smiled Magnus.

The barista cleared her throat andMagnus prompted Alec to order a coffee. Magnus smiled at him one lasttime, lifting his own coffee up in greeting.

“Thanks again for the help,Alexander. Sadly, I have a lecture to get to. Have a good day.”

Alec nodded and waved weakly, beforemaking his way back to his dorm room. Only when he closed the doorbehind himself did he remember that he had actually meant to getcoffee and breakfast for Lydia. Annoyed, he put the cup down andwanted to grab his umbrella and return to the coffee shop, just tonotice that there was something scribbled on the cup - aside from hisname. In an elegant handwriting, there was a number and a small note.

You’re a great kisser. Text me ifyou ever want to get a coffee together xx Magnus.

Which was the point where Alec sent adozen texts to Jace, Lydia and Isabelle and started pacing his room,stunned that all of this had actually happened.

And not just that; the handsomestranger actually wanted to go on a date with him? It had been fartoo long since Alec last had kissed someone, so he somehow doubtedthat his kissing skills were thatimpressive.

Not to mention, it had beenabout as long since Alec had last been on a date. The thought waspretty terrifying and he definitely needed Jace, Lydia and Isabelleto help him out sorting all of this.

But the thought of Magnus,the way Magnus had smiled at him as they parted their kiss, thethought alone made Alec smile softly. It had been nice to be lookedat like that. He’d like to be looked at like that again by Magnus andhe’d also like to kiss Magnus again.

Read this here on AO3 & here on FFNet

[adorealeclightwood]

Alec in 3x04.

Okay, I haven’t decided on a format for how I’ll be doing this, but a name and episode number will suffice for the time being.

First of all, I’m really happy the first scene we got with Alec was at the institute. I mentioned that I love to see him work, because I do! Often times, when you have a character in a relationship, that ends up being the only thing you see. If it’s an LGBTQ relationship, chances are, their entire storyline will become nonexistent, and they end up being “that one gay character”, or whatever. I’m glad that both Alec and Magnus are able to remain well rounded characters and have a healthy relationship simultaneously. Other shows could stand to take a few notes. 

In regards to him working, this is the content I’ve been waiting for. Alec is a leader; he wants to get shit done the right way. When he’s standing there questioning Morgan and Izzy enters the room, you can tell he’s been at it for a while. There’s an owl demon out killing mundanes, and he wants to put an end to it. Anyone else would’ve likely killed Morgan without a second thought, but he’d rather find the source and deal with things from there, which is exactly what I’d expect from someone as intelligent as Alec. I spoke about character development because it’s a far cry from the Alec I knew in season one (don’t get it twisted, I loved him back then just as much as I love him in this season). 

Now, there’s something I’ve wanted to get off my chest since 3x03. Am I supposed to believe that Alexander Gideon intellectual, king of knowing when something is wrong, master bullshit detector Lightwood can’t sense that his parabatai is a victim of demonic possession? This is probably more of a writing thing, but I’m going to discuss it anyway. 

Their souls are bound, guys. Closer than blood. No human bond compares. It’s not like “hm, I think my buddy is a little sad right now”. They can feel each other, and they can tell when the other is hurt. Jace brought a piece of Alec’s soul back to him, for crying out loud. If Jace is losing sleep, unable to remember where he was, or how he got from point A to B, and being plagued by nightmares, I - a logical young woman - would assume that there’s no way in hell Alec is just carrying on as if everything is normal. 

Fortunately, he doesn’t disappoint. Clary comes in asking to have Jace pulled from a mission, and you can practically see his bullshit sensors going off. Rightfully so, because when has Jace ever switched out willingly? She starts spouting the same crap about Jace being tired, and he isn’t buying it. “When you and Jace were at Lake Lyn, my parabatai rune disappeared. There’s a reason for that.” That line was executed PERFECTLY. He knows something went down, and he’s giving her the opportunity to speak up. She lies again, and I can feel the frustration in that sigh because it’s so relatable. You’re being lied to, and you know you’re being lied to, but you can’t get to the bottom of it because you weren’t there when whatever happened actually happened, and you don’t have any details. Meanwhile, someone you care about is going through some rough shit, and you can’t help them.

I’d also like to point out that he acknowledges how much Clary cares about Jace. At this point, he probably knows she’s protecting him somehow, and although he appreciates that, he still needs to know what the hell is going on, and he manages to get that point across without disregarding her feelings, which is nice to see. He asks Clary to tell him if it’s anything serious, and she doesn’t even bother lying - she bails. She’s walking out of his office, and you can sense the frustration again. He’s dealing with the possessions and murders, trying to track down the owl, harboring his mother’s secret about being stripped of her runes and exiled (which none of his siblings are currently aware of), and on top of all that, he doesn’t know what’s wrong with Jace because he’s being lied to by both him and Clary. That’s enough to make anyone feel helpless, and helplessness isn’t something you want to feel when you’re the one in charge. In other words, my boy is stressed, honey.        

Quick note: I meant what I said about wanting more scenes with Alec and Clary. I’ve always found their dynamic interesting, and now that she’s actively keeping a huge secret from him about Jace, it adds a new level of angst to their relationship, and may actually hinder or prevent their friendship from growing. We know Alec is big on honesty, so this is now the second time he’s asked her flat out what went down at the lake, and she’s lied to his face. I don’t know about you, but I’m super anxious to see how that plays out. Will he lose his shit and have her turned in while he finds a way to protect Jace? Will he ask Magnus to help Jace? Will he be angry at all? Who knows!

Now, it’s Malec time. I know you were waiting for it. 

I said something about them being functional, and I can’t even begin to express how happy I am that they are. Alec isn’t just the Shadowhunter fresh out of the closet, and Magnus isn’t some glittery warlock he’s hooking up with. Alec is the head of the institute, actively doing his job and trying to track down a demon that no one’s seen before, and stop it from possessing and killing mundanes. Magnus isn’t the high warlock of Brooklyn anymore, but he’s still useful. He didn’t even want to go to that party in 3x01, but he went anyway, because it was his duty. There’s old, dark, dangerous magic lurking around, and he wants to get to the bottom of it. He’s helpful and supportive. They’re both active - we get to see them actually do things. What I’m trying to say is, I’m a sucker for the soft stuff, but I’m super happy that there’s more to each of them than their relationship. I hope that makes sense! Whew.

Now, back to Alec.

Right off the bat, you can tell he’s going through it. He hasn’t been eating or drinking because he’s so worried. If anyone is able to help Jace, it should be him, but he can’t, because he doesn’t know how. Magnus offers some comforting words (like the kind, thoughtful man he is), and not even five seconds later, Alec is already moving on to the next task. Again with the leadership! Yes, he’s worried about his parabatai, but he’s got other things to deal with as well. They’ve reached a dead end with the owl situation, but he’s still looking for some answers, because let’s be real, do we expect anything less from Alec? Once again, Magnus is ready to help, and Alec is essentially like “cool, thanks”, but he’s still upset, because when you’ve got twenty things going wrong and you can’t fix any of them, it’s hard to take a breather. 

I want to talk about him coming back to the institute for a second. (I’m jumping around a lot, I know. I’d apologize, but this is how my brain works. I’ll do better next week, I promise.) The security system goes haywire, and while I’m sitting here thinking their IT department needs to update their firewalls, Alec shows up. Apparently it’s only been down for a few minutes, but the look on his face when the other girl says she hopes it was just a glitch, I just...

(I’m sorry, but I have a weakness for attractive, agitated men. Sue me.)

Anyway, they head down to where Morgan is being kept, and he sees her lying on the ground and takes a pause. She looks dead, but she can’t be. He wanted to save her. Magnus works his magic, and bam! She’s alive and confused, but no longer possessed. Then, Alec reassures her and says she’s okay. 

THIS IS CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, PEOPLE. Remember when he referred to Simon as “it” while he was a mundane? “Mundanes. Look at them, running around like ants.” I have to admit: sassy, sarcastic, asshole Alec was truly a gem, but I am loving this turnaround. After all, we wouldn’t love certain characters half as much if they didn’t evolve in one way or another, right? 

Right. Moving on.     

When Alec finds Jace staring into the mirror, I replayed the first few seconds four or five times. Just seeing Jace look so lost and slightly afraid, then Alec comes in teasing him, and he jumps a little, and you can see that cocky facade slipping back into place. I’m pointing that out because Jace is hiding something. He’s hiding something from his parabatai, and Alec picks up on it in a heartbeat. He asks why he pulled the security footage, and naturally, Jace is defensive. Under different circumstances, I’m sure some bickering would ensue, but Alec doesn’t engage. He just wants Jace to know he’s looking out for him. Alec is practically telling him the same thing he told Clary; “I know you’re not alright, you’re lying to me, but I want you to tell me the truth”. (Not verbatim of course, but you guys get what I’m saying.) 

I’ve seen some people saying that Alec bringing up Jace’s birth mother’s mental illness was out of line, but I disagree. He doesn’t know what’s wrong with Jace, all he knows is that he hasn’t been sleeping, he looks like hell, and nothing feels right. They deal with other shadowhunters, angels, demons, vampires, werewolves, warlocks, and seelies on a daily basis, but they’re half mundane themselves. They’re human, too. Mental illness is a very human thing, so it wouldn’t make sense to rule that out completely. Jace thinks that Alec is calling him crazy, but he wants him to know that that isn’t what he’s saying. He’s just trying to help - as usual. 

I enjoyed this scene because it shows how their relationship has been affected by Jace being under Lilith’s control. In season one, Alec had a problem with Jace running around doing God knows what with Clary. They fought about it, but they got through it. They had a huge fight when Alec tried taking Meliorn to the silent brothers, but they resolved that too. In season two, Alec got possessed and killed Clary’s mother. He was up on the roof, blaming himself, and Jace went up there to talk to him. Alec ended up leaving, but still, they talked it out. (I hope you’re seeing a pattern here.) In the past, they managed to work their shit out and move on. This time, things are different, because neither one of them truly knows what’s going on. Alec has no idea that Jace was literally killed and resurrected, and Jace has no idea that he’s the owl that’s got Alec so stressed. 

Honey, we’ve got a big storm coming.

That’s all I’ve got for now, and I’ll be back with more discourse next week. In the meantime, if you have any questions, comments, or requests, let me know, and I’ll happily oblige! 

Now, go hunt some shadows! (Or continue scrolling, whatever makes you happy.) 

Bye.

[fallcrestrpg]

ıllıllı 𝙃𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙮 10/31 ıllıllı

Transcript of Halloween Party below Cut:

BRAXTON: The beta, being the theatrical man he was, decided to burst open both doors of the diner wide open upon his arrival. "Heyoooo! Brax is here. The party can finally now begin." He laughed as he held out the door for the ladies behind him.

IZZY: As she walked in after the boisterous man, she was just glad that he somehow managed not to let the door close on her face as he made his usual entrance. “It’s cute you still think the kids wouldn’t have started without you anyway. Though I am glad you decided to wear headgear tonight,” she teased as she carried her girls in

SKYLAR: The short redhead was enjoying the conversation that was happening at her booth when the loud yet familiar voice caught her attention. Of course, it was Braxton. Even if they had turned up the music, his voice could still be heard. "Oh look, the mini twins are here."

TOMI: Glancing over at the door a smile spread across her face at the sight. “Oh they are so adorable! And clearly Izzy vetoed Brax on their costume because theirs is much better than Sean and I’s ketchup and mustard matching onesies.”

Turning back the booth and it’s occupants she looked to her right and then across to Skylar’s right. “You know, when Luke suggested we do matching costumes again, I did not count on them apparently having run out of pants…but thank god for sister wives who are willing to wear skirts,” she laughed, feeling genuine happiness for what felt like the first time in a while. Looking back to her right she added, “Yes Sean, you are the polycule’s brother husband, but” she leaned over a bit to catch the eye of the girl on her brother’s right, “Amaryllis is excused from the polycule because she’s never been under Sky’s charming spell…that we know of.”

AMARYLLIS: Amaryllis took a quick look at the twins before Tomi mentioned about their old costumes, "If you were ketchup and mustards.. what were they?" She frowned at Braxton's choice of costumes, "If he's that cereal captain guy... I can't imagine what everyone else would've been."

She turned towards Tomi again and gave a slight frown, "What's a polycule?" She looked from one to the other before her eyes landed on Sean, and realized what it could have meant, "Did everyone have a crush on Sky..?"

SEAN: He chuckled at the memory of the pictures they still had from their first Halloween. “Brax was a hotdog, and Izzy was a very reluctant burger,” he offered. “Brax has clearly always let his stomach do the thinking when choosing his costumes.”

At the question of what a polycule was, he glared at Tomi but opted to give her pass because at least she was laughing…even if it was at his expense. “It’s what some polyamorous partners call their group. Obviously here we’re not being literal,” he explained, before her next question made his face match his hair. “In my defense, I was six!”

EMBRY: "Why am I not surprised that his ideas are based on food? Even his costume this year is a cereal mascot." Embry chuckled as she leaned against her girlfriend.

She tried to suppress her smile when she saw just how flustered Sean was getting from the simple question before her attention was caught by someone else in the background. "Who's that in that booth over there?"

EVAN: She hasn't been surprised that the Avaraham-Newton clan had gone for the whole family theme costume bit, but she had been a bit surprised that she'd been included. Regardless, it seemed to have all worked out well since it meant she had less thinking to do about her own costume.

At the question, she glanced over at the booth Emmy mentioned and then back at Amaryllis, before answering, "Uh, I believe that's Peyton Dawson....who Leo has made sure will be staying at least five feet away from Amaryllis at all times...which by extension means so will Kala."

AVERY: "Who we checking out, gals and Sean?" Avery arrived late with Maite and had no troubles finding the gang. The girl slipped into one of the other booths, drapping her arms around two of the Scoobie members. It wasn't long until Maite pulled her off so they could sit properly at the booth.

"Who is this Peyton Dawson and why are we keeping her - and Kala - away from y'all?"

JULIAN: The merboy couldn't help but pipe up from his spot in the booth the newcomers had just slid into. "Oh, she's Grumpy Cat's alleged sister, and we're trying to make sure everyone has a good time by not having to deal with any drama today. Kala just drew the short-stick and is on babysitter duty," he filled in.

CATALINA: His cousin looked across the floor and spotted the people her friends were talking about. Although she knew that the girl was seated there because they didn't want her to approach Amaryllis, the mermaid felt bad that she was almost by herself.. and that Kala has to stick by her because of that.

"Are we allowed to talk to her?" She asked, turning back to the group - not that she was taking sides. Catalina was genuinely curious about the new girl and her nature of wanting to befriend everyone.

ARTEMIS: The faerie just made a face -which caused her fake glasses to skew and she went to go fix them- before turning to look at her girlfriend and asking, "Since when do you ask for permission before going off to talk to strangers? I mean, don't get me wrong, it's a great improvement and I hope it continues, but I'm surprised you didn't make a beeline for their booth as we passed it....babe."

AVERY: If Avery's smile was anything to go by, the wolf already slipped out of her spot and motioned for the mermaid to join her. "Kitty Cat, let's go say hi!" Yes, she was very much curious about this stranger herself and now that there was someone to join her. With that, the wolf dragged the mermaid by the hand across the floor to their victim guest.

KALA: She glanced up as she took note of the approaching footsteps, not in the least bit surprised by who they belonged to. "Ladies, how's your evening so far?" she asked, innocently enough knowing full well that she was not the reason for their approach.

AVERY: "Hi Kala~!" She smiled, also speaking first since Catalina found herself partially hiding behind the taller girl. "Our evening is going very well." Without even asking, the wolf plopped herself next to Kala, an arm around the babysitter. "SO. Who's your date?"

KALA: Without missing a beat she turned to face the brunette with a saccharine sweet smile and said, "Well it better be you, Rendall. Otherwise, I would recommend the retrieval of your arm in the next three seconds if you plan on it remaining attached and fully functional."

PEYTON: "Peyton!" She interrupted, hoping that it'd distract either of them from their banter. "I'm Peyton. Dawson. Peyton Dawson." She rambled, "Are you two friends of Kala here? And earlier today, she was telling me that she had no friends." She pointed a look at her guard though her smile remained plastered on her face.

KALA: Turned to face Peyton, as her elbow rammed up into Avery's armpit to get her to move her arm. She knew the wolf could take it, and her attention was in correcting the girl before them. "No, I said no one had made it to level 20 friend, which these two are more than aware they are from..." she leaned out over the table a bit so she could catch Cat's eye around Avery. "Sorry Cat, I'm not being mean. Avery's just being annoying."

CATALINA: Since Avery sat down, Catalina just stood by while watching their interaction until Kala spoke directly to her. "What's level 20?" She asked instead since it had caught her attention when Kala corrected Peyton. "Oh. I'm Cat! Catalina, but people call me Cat, you can call me Cat too! It's nice to meet you. I think I'm Kala's friend...?" The mermaid stole a few glances at the dragon shifter.

TOMI: She chose to make her way over in a bid to make sure Avery didn’t cause any trouble, but also maybe to keep from feeling like a massive 7th wheel in her booth. “Level 20 is an arbitrary standard that someone has to reach to be considered a ‘close friend’,” she offered Cat by way of explanation. “And we’re all Kala’s friends even if not quite level 20 yet.” Turning to the other girl she said, “I’m Tomi. Amaryllis’ sister-in-law.”

PEYTON: It seemed that everyone was just gathering at their booth as the brunette came to explain on their behalf. Her eyes widened when she introduced herself. "Amaryllis' Sister i- She's married?!" Her eyes were so round as she whipped her head to Kala, "You did not say they were married. Then Sean's her husband.. Oh my god he's my brother-in-law? Then that would mean-" She whipped her head back at Tomi, "You're my sister-i-law too. Well, we would be.. if.. she.. I mean, you get it. Biologically, I'm her sister.. well, half but still.. But you get me."

KALA: Fixed Tomi with a scowl. “Can you not, this kid is so easily excitable I thought she might have a heart attack at the sight of why mini-twins,” she said before turning back to Peyton. “They’re not married, alright. They just act like it twenty-four-seven.”

AVERY: "Ooooh, that does mean you're seestra-in-laws!" She laughed as they witness just how excited Peyton was getting. "Anyways, I'm Avery Rendall. The best Rendall out of my sibs if you ask me." She grinned as she offered a hand for the other to shake, "And Kala's right. They're not married... yet but they might as well be. That boy is whipped for you sister not-sister. Anywayyyyys, I guess that the two of you are getting alot real well since.. well, you're not dead." She laughed.

COL: He seemed to have walked in to the party just at the right time. It seemed that only were people already milling about, but he could run ‘Avery Control’. “Oh, I wouldn’t say you’re the best Rendall, but you’re certainly up there,” he offered, before quickly adding, “I’m Col Rendall, and if you’ll note, that’s only one letter off from ‘cool’.”

He placed a hand on his sister’s shoulder and began guiding her out of the booth and back in Maite’s direction -best at ‘Avery Control’- “Now come on, no need to make Sean’s life harder by embarrassing him nor your own by pissing off a dragon.”

SKYLAR: Skylar watched as the Alpha guided his sister back to her girlfriend, almost laughing at how quickly Avery had gone to snuggle with Maite. Of course, she wasn't going to poke fun because the whole group seemed to be very convinced that the short red-head was whipped for her roommate.

"Did you get help on your costume? Pretty sick, Col." Everyone's costumes were nice. Hers, not so much but that had been her consequence from having a fight with Dallas and not wanting her mother to find out.

COL: He watched as his sister was immediately drawn to her girlfriend like a magnet. Perfect ‘Avery Control’. Turning his head to the next booth, it took quite the effort to keep himself from breaking down in laughter at the sight of a talking Stay Pufft balloon.

“Uh, thanks,” he managed, “Yeah a little. Kieran was cool enough to use her 3D printer for the symbiote half. I see you took one for the team…?” Or at least he guessed. His attention was then pulled away by the sound of his brother at the karaoke mic. “Oh no. I need to run interference. Have fun guys”

KEAGAN: Keagan who had been spending majority of her time catching up with her old friends, looked towards the stage when Braxton was heard speaking with the mic. "Oh no. Who gave him the mic?" While she was gone for a while now and if her memory served her right, Braxton should not be allowed to do Karaoke night. Ever.

LUKE: She couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. Watching the alpha of the town pack revert back to older brother mode to wrestle with Brax over the mic. "Oh come on! Let him get it out of his system!" she called out, receiving more than one scowl from the group around her. "What? If he gets it done early he won't spend the entire rest of the night trying to get back up there."

ALEJA: "I've never heard him sing." She glanced around the diner, only to find that most of the reaction of finding out Brax was on stage was more or less the same - various levels of dread. The faerie sworn someone even snuck out the door to avoid listening to what was going to happen. "He can't be that bad, is he?"

BLAKE: "Consider yourself lucky," she replied from her spot next to the faerie. Blake made to stand, adjusting her coat and fake sideburns as she made her way up to the mic herself. "Braxton Walker Rendall, as your Alpha I order you to stop this nonsense right now," she growled out in her deepest voice. She ignored the look the actual Alpha was sending her way, and continued to scowl through her fake mascara five o'clock shadow. "This party is for people to have a good time."

BRAXTON: It was clearly not Col's voice so when he looked down, he couldn't help but laugh. "Oh my god. Are you dressed as my brother for Halloween? Shit. Do you see that, Col?!" He laughed as he looked at the real Alpha, pointing to the fake one. "And I'm totally here to provide people a good time! Blake, it has to be karaoke night today. Come onnnnnn." On that note, Braxton dove into his first verse, singing out as passionately as he could.

HUNTER: It had taken her a bit longer than expected to clean up the bakery after having made the treats for tonight, but Hunter was nothing short of ecstatic for the evening. Not only were they hitting up a hunt with the Ghoul Boys later, but she'd managed to get Sage to help her with her hair for her costume. Shane had called dibs on Kevin and luckily Ryan was a good sport to round things off with Abby.

No sooner had she stepped in the diner, than she bee-lined it up to the karaoke setup to join Brax as they belted out, Brutal -in a fashion that totally fit the title of the song- "Where's my fucking teenage dream!!!"

SAGE: Honestly, she was surprised she was even invited. However, if she was going to tag along, she might as well keep an eye on Hunter. Though she would never vocally admit it, she definitely had a soft spot for the other. Slipping onto one of the empty stools by the counters, she watched as the rest of Fallcrest interact with each other. It was almost impressive that she could hide her wince when her sister's voice blasted through the speakers along with the enthusiastic gym owner. "Someone should turn the speakers down before they break it.."

MICK: Glancing up from her own spot at the counter, all the Sheriff could do was shake her head and say, "I tried to get Ray to just bar the use of the karaoke machine all together, but apparently it was part of the package when Blake rented out the place....really wish it hadn't been." She took full advantage of her costume to grimace without remorse at the pair currently on the mic.

SAGE: Startled by the echo-y voice next to her, Sage actually took a moment to see if she could guess. "....Who are you?" How did she not even notice the other person until now? The mask wasn't giving her any clues to who this was either. Before she could think further, she winced yet again when Hunter and Braxton got to the parts where they had to sing together, making it twice as loud.

MICK: She was taken aback by the question, before it dawned on her that her costume left little guessing room. "Sorry, it's just me," she said, as she removed the mask. As she shook her head a bit to get her hair back under control she caught sight of Ayden. "Oi! I'm holding you and Blake personally responsible for any hearing loss I suffer due to this."

AYDEN: At her name, she spun around to find the Sheriff complaining to her about Braxton and Hunter finding their way to the microphones. "We all expected this to happen when Ray refused to take away the system." She laughed, "Let him be, Mick. It's been a while since his last karaoke. Didn't Col limit his 'karaoke privileges' to be like.. once a year?"

OLIVER: Having just come in at the tail-end of things, the Mayor simply said, "An effort was made." He adjusted his Wolf Lodge Fitness tank and short-shorts, wondering how he allowed Blake to talk him into this costume, before adding, "But I believe he then threatened to just do daily sessions in his own home and the kids all begged Col to take it back."

SAGE: While the others were talking about Braxton's situation, she was just staring at the Mayor as she tried to figure out what his costume was supposed to be. "Mr. Adams, are you supposed to be the owner of Wolf Lodge?"

OLIVER: "Oh, you can call me Ollie," he offered with a smile. "And yes, unfortunately. My cousin tends to have this way of convincing people to do things...Anyway, she figured if she was the elder Rendall brother, I should take on the younger...I do wonder if she somehow managed to get Hartley to be the youngest Rendall..."

HARTLEY: As if on cue, Hartley came up to the group with her drink in hand. "I cannot hear anything over them." The vampire was yelling, "I also don't remember the song being this long!" Although she sounded like she was complaining, Hartley had a smile on her face as she was just happy to be here.

TOMI: She had come up to the counter with the intention of getting a drink, but when faced with what had to be the ultimate take on Brax and Aves, she immediately grabbed them both they hand and ran them both over to their booths. "GUYS! I found my aunt and uncle! I love them!"

MAITE: She looked up, confused because she was cuddling with Avery so what was Tomi going on about? A laugh escaped her when she realized what those costumes were. "Oh my god, babe. That's you!"

ERIN: She knew she probably shouldn't, but also felt a bit guilty about being heavy-handed on the teasing earlier with Sky, so from her spot she called out to Avery as well, "Yeah babe it's you! ...except she actually seems to be able to go two seconds without koaling up to Maite."

AVERY: Avery's mouth dropped at the sight of the Mayor and Hartley pretending to be her brother and herself. "Uh... " She didn't know what to say even with all the teasing coming from her friends. It was also clear that Blake was the one to rope them into the group costumes. "How.. wha..?" She turned to Erin, "Excuse you, there is nothing wrong with wanting to cuddle with my girlfriend. Go cuddle with your marshmallow balloon." Turning back to the teacher, Avery grinned, "Hart, come here. We neeeeeed a selfie."

TOMI: Her face betrayed her a bit more than she would've liked at the statement of cuddling with girlfriends, so before she did anything to bring the mood down or even let her own mood sink any further, she opted to take a step away. "Oh! Wait, let me go grab Blake, Brax, and Col and you guys can do a group shot too!" It was a lame excuse, but it worked.

She made quick work of rounding up her uncle Col and Blake, and then went over to Brax. "Brax! Come with us we're taking a picture and you're gonna love it!"

BRAXTON: "Taking pictures? Sure." Without missing a beat, Braxton gave his mic to someone else as he walked past them. Once he got to the table, it sank in as to why they wanted the pictures. The beta cracked up, and he threw his arms around Ollie. "Yo~! Ollie, my man!" He laughed, "I didn't know you were going to be me for Halloween. I must say, I'm honoured. But, buddy, I know I would totally make it work but I don't wear headbands."

OLIVER: Glanced up at the sound of his ‘inspiration’s voice. “Oh I think you mean, you don’t wear them anymore. Blake’s got receipts man. She’s the one who made sure we were all on point with our attire tonight,” he grinned. “I mean look at her! She’s gone full method,” he laughed at his cousin pretending to diagnose Tomi

SKYLAR: Skylar looked over at Blake pretending to be the Alpha and she also had to laugh, almost doubling over onto Erin. "I can't believe she's got the sideburns going. I... am so tempted to just rip them off real fast like a bandaid though."

LUKE: Almost as if reading her niece's mind, Luke had managed to evade Keagan's attempts to keep her seated and trailed off after the lot of Rendall and pseudo-Rendalls. She waited until the very moment that they were snapping the pick to come up behind Blake and ripping off the sideburns. As the older woman's yelp was immortalized in a digital image, the younger redhead made a dash to hope over the counter, and using it as cover to make her way back over to their own booth.

"I come back with the spoils of my victory," she laughed as she dangled the limp sideburns.

KEAGAN: Keagan just let out a sigh when Luke escaped to go mess with Blake. Of course, she didn't try very hard since it'd be impossible to stop her anyways so the wold just watched it happen. "Blake might kill you and I will let it happen." She chuckled as she grabbed a fry from her plate.

LUKE: Shaking her head, she just sighed in defeat and said, "I always knew I'd only ever be able to depend on myself to have my back," she held up a hand to stop Hunter before she even spoke, "Hunter, you were willing to let a crow peck at my face rather possibly hurt it by shooing it away."

She instead made her way over to the now empty seat next to Aleja. "You're the only one who I know will save me, Ale. If only to keep your Gluten-Free from committing murder."

ALEJA: The faerie chuckled when she saw Blake coming after Luke. And before her girlfriend can reach her target, Aleja reached out and took her hand with the hopes of diverting her attention.

"Blake, come sit with me." She laughed  when she saw the woman was missing one of her sideburns. Her hand raised up to gently touch the aggressively red spot. "You okay?"

BLAKE: The older redhead could only pout as she was effectively guided away from the culprit. She lent into the touch and continued to pout as she said, "I would love nothing more than to say she'd never have had the guts to do something like that to the real Col, but I know unfortunately know Slenderlady better than that."

She did reach out and take back her sideburn though, and placed back in place. "I would also like to think that you're just showing off for the Buzzfeed crew, but you're just a little shit all around. Keagan, if you ever need a place to escape her from just let me know."

KEAGAN: "Did the Buzzfeed team even know about this party?" Keagan looked over to the ghoul brothers who seemed to be roped into some sort of shenanigans with the other townsfolk. "But I'll keep your offer in mind. For now, I think I'll be sticking around the Benson cabin for a while." It didn't slip her notice to how easily Aleja got Blake to give up her pursuit.

"How did you even get Ollie and Hartley to dress up as the Rendalls sibs?"

BLAKE: She got the look on her that clearly indicated she was about to say something 'smart' about Keagan's adamant decision to stay at the cabin, but one look from the faerie beside her rethinking what she actually managed to say. "Oh, well if you're looking on sticking around a bit longer, Bosslady, you might want to hit up the Sheriff. Her chief Deputy spot just opened up and she may be looking for someone with your kind of experience."

She glanced over at the mentioned pair, "They're practically my little brother and sister. All I really had to do was ask...Hartley was easier to convince than Ollie, but I think that was because of the short-shorts."

SKYLAR: The girl who wanted another with Blake because her sideburns were just hilarious, skipped over to their booths, only to catch what Blake suggested. Her eyes widened and she immediately slipped around to where her mother was sitting. "You're going to be the new Deputy? Is she going to be the new Deputy?"

LUKE: If looks could kill, Aleja would be a very sad newly-single gal right now, and if the look on Blake's face was anything to go by, she knew it too. The last thing Luke wanted was for her niece to get her hopes up about her mom being able to stick around only to have them crushed...again. "Well, Mini-me, I think that's something that would still need to be determined by both the Sheriff and your mom's boss, so as exciting as the idea is, we should probably hold off on baking her a congratulations cake...or you know, having Hunter bake one anyway." She offered the girl a wink and small smirk, before turning back to Blake.

"But you know what, all of this working together to help each other out is giving some nostalgic feels..." she trailed off, the look of fear on Blake's face letting her know the other knew exactly what her punishment would now  be. "Brax! Col! Ollie! We should get the 'band' back together! Blake is all for it!" And with that she ran to meet the guys at the karaoke setup with a reluctant Blake in tow

BRAXTON: "Yesssssssssssssss!" He jumped from his spot and dragged his brother and Ollie up onto the stage with him. "I've been waiting for this! Haha." When he got to the karaoke machine, he scrolled through the song list until he saw what he was looking for. Clicking on it, he smiled wildly when the song started playing on the speakers.

ERIN: She had taken off after her balloon, and had made it just as Luke was trying to let Sky down as gently as she could manage -which considering Luke's tact with other news, was surprisingly well done. As the older woman had taken off to the karaoke mics with the others, the taller girl wrapped her arms awkwardly around her little marshmallow. "Is this going to be bad? Is she going to sound like Brax when it gets to her part too?"

SKYLAR: Over the years, she learned not to get her hopes up too early on, but still, she'd be lying if she said she wasn't slightly disappointed that it wasn't confirmed if her mother was going to stay in town for good. But then the change of topic was welcomed. "Oh. I can't really say for the rest of them but Luke's pretty good at singing. Shocking, I know but she is."

HUNTER: She had been keeping the Buzzfeed crew fairly entertained while they counted down to when they were meant to start heading off to the old FC Sanitarium. It had been surprisingly easy to do once alcohol was involved. It did seem that they were keen on getting some B-roll while at the party. Managing to get to the booth as her friend took off she glances at the fun-size version and said, “Ooh, do you think we should do music content for the channel? She’s always kind of vague about it, but I know you guys have a music room in the cabin no? Maybe we can incorporate music into how we channel spirits!”

KEAGAN: "Music content? Like a band?" She glanced around the place, "Last I recall, a lot of us plays an instrument so maybe you can rope them in to help out?" Keagan was sure there was at least a band within each group of friends. On the topic of channeling ghost, she decided to keep quiet since she had nothing to say about that.

IZZY: She was honestly surprised at how well behaved the twins had been the entire evening, though she had to admit it helped that they were constantly fascinated by the costumes and, were currently being kept even busier playing with Levi and the canines of the group in the 'kids' area they'd set up.

Turning her attention back to the conversation she let out a chuckle and said, "She's got Mini-Me and the Tornado Twins to round out the band for the Spooky Sisters. If anything, I think the biggest hurdle will be them figuring out who plays what since Luke has been more than happy to indulge these chaotic trio in learning whatever instrument they pick up."

ALEJA: "I had no idea that they were so versatile in the musical field. That is talent. I cannot play anything for the life of me and trust me, I've tried. My music teachers were not happy to hear me perform." She was impressed to discover that the kids had learned every instrument that they wanted. "Well, at least it looks there's a chance for your channel to have music. Although I'm not sure what sort of music goes along with channeling ghosts.. other than the spooky vibes."

Her eyes dropped to her drink and realized hers was empty. "Okay. I need another drink, I'm going to grab myself one - does anyone else want something?" She eased herself out of the booth without needing anyone else to move out of the way for her.

LUKE: After indulging their surprisingly involved audience with two 'encores' -all of which Luke found a way to avoid doing much- she took a peek at her watch and caught as one of the BF producers signaled they should get going.

Hopping off the stage, she beelined it to where her she'd left her 'pack' and slipped it on as she then went down the line giving good-bye kisses: Her lil balloon, the balloon's GF, the GF's sister wife, the sister wife's twin brother, and the balloon's mom. She stopped short of giving one to Hunter, instead just grabbing her by the scruff as she called back, "We're off to the Sanitarium. If you don't see us in over 24 hours, please don't be dumb and look for us, just assume nature has taken its course gottagobyeeeee!"

AYDEN: Ayden's eyes followed as the two sped off before she looked back at he stage. "And then there were four." She chuckled, "Maybe we should pull them off the stage to give everyone's hearing a rest." Getting up from her seat, she made her way over to the remaining members and waved at the Alpha, hoping the rest would follow. "Come on, let's give someone else the chance to sing?"

COL: He has been hesitant to ‘regroup’, as it were, but once on stage it was like the nostalgia of it all took over and he found himself genuinely enjoying their old dumb routines.

Col didn’t put up a fight as Ayden guided him off. “Yeah well, everyone knows the group was never the same after Justin anyway,” he grumbled before smiling at the shifter. “I am glad to see that my moves still have the exact same effect on you as they did back in the day.”

AVERY: Avery spotted her brother being guided off the stage and had to chuckle, shaking against her girlfriend who looked at her curiously. "Oi Col!" She called out from her spot, ignoring the sigh she heard from Maite who already figured out what she might say. "Stop flirting. That still hadn't work as they did back in the day either!"

BLAKE: She had made quick work of following the Alpha of stage and had made her way over to where her own girlfriend was getting drinks. Never one to miss an opportunity to mess with either of her friends, she called out, “Oh come on, Aves! It’s not Col and Brax’s fault you clearly inherited all of the Rendall family genes that help you get a girl.”

BRAXTON: His head popped up from the crowd when he heard his name, "Hey!" He grabbed his drink and stood in the halfway point between his sister and his friend. "I can totally get a girl! I just choose to stay single. Zat is the difference, Emmerson! Don't lump me with Col." He laughed before finding his way back to the group again to sling his arm around someone.

IZZY: She shrugged off the man’s arm almost immediately after it made contact. “Well I’m glad to see that you’re obviously back to your usual, full-health self after I picked your ass off the forest floor,” she began, “Clearly rising solo is working wonders for you, and with your choice of costume you’ve absolutely guaranteed your choice is respected.”

EMBRY: She had been watching group from their own booth for a while now - both Avery and Braxton had been loud enough to catch her attention and it wasn't soon after she looked over that she saw Izzy shrug off the man's arm without a hint of hesitation. "...Is she okay?" She whispered to her right out of curiosity since it wasn't often that she saw Izzy be upset with Braxton.

SEAN: He couldn’t help the look of disappointment that crossed his face almost as soon as Brax opened his mouth. Sean loved the man and the sense of a father figure he brought to his and Tomi’s lives, but now that he was older, there were things even he couldn’t just let slide.

He caught the same look pass across his twin’s face and when Embry asked after Izzy, all he could do was shake his head. “Not really, no. She’s really been doing her best, but Brax has been completely oblivious to the things he says way more than usual lately. I think she’ll probably be staying back at the ranch for a while.”

AMARYLLIS: Amaryllis was as unimpressed with Braxton as she ever was. While he was friendly, he was just too much to handle - and idiotic. This situation proved just as much. However, the shifter continued to take bites from her appetizers in front of her. "More than usual?" She almost snorted at that. "Please." Amaryllis muttered under breath, almost rolling her eyes at that. Braxton was either intentionally being an asshole, or he was just that dumb.

"... Which will mean her kids are coming with.." She still had no idea how to deal with those children. They seemed to love having Amaryllis around but the brunette did not share the sentiments. "Can anyone just go hit him?"

TOMI: She knew better than to try and go after Izzy right now, so instead she’d gone over to Sean. Even she had to agree with Amaryllis this time as she let out a wry chuckle.

“Yeah, I know you’re not exactly their biggest fan, Ryllie, but they’re harmless. If nothing else, I’m sure Sean and I can find ways to help Izzy keep them out of your fur,” she said with a tired smile. The past few days had really just been a lot. “If you’re volunteering, by all means. I would offer, but he’d probably remind me I’m ‘fragile’.”

EMBRY: "Isn't it a be a better idea to let him know?" Embry couldn't help but feel sorry for the older Irwin. "Are we sure that he really doesn't know?" She asked, looking over at Braxton who seemed to either be ignoring all the looks or just oblivious to them.

"... He really just.. doesn't say the smartest things, does he?" Everyone was equally disappointed in the Beta.

EVAN: The older girl could understand her girlfriend’s concern, but having grown up with these same folks, she herself had better grasp of where the others were coming from.

“Izzy is a grown woman and has never been one to mince words. I’m sure if it’s come to this, it’s because she’s already made an attempt to address the matter. That being said, Brax is also an adult and I’m sure Izzy doesn’t feel that she should have to spell it out for him if he’s just not willing to make an effort to read the writing, ya know.”

AVERY: The youngest Rendall had decided that it was a very good time to retreat from that table and guide her girlfriend back to her group of friends. When she came back, she caught the end bits of the discussions. "Knowing Izzy? She could have straight up told him point blank and my brother probably will still be an dumbass." She rolled her eyes as she sat back in her spot, bringing Maite onto her lap.

"I feel bad for your sister. She's amazing and everything.. why did it have to be my brother?"

SEAN: He just shrugged, not really knowing what the right words be in this situation anyway. At her question though he just said, "I think if there's one thing almost everyone at this party can agree on -in some form or fashion- it's that we don't really get to choose who fall for. We just get to decide what actions we take to deal with it, and for now I think Izzy's decision -and best option really- is space."

SKYLAR: The balloon led her taller girlfriend back to their scooby gang because she really did not want to be at the table with Braxton after that. "Yeah and that beta of ours really doesn't make the smartest decisions most the time. Didn't they say that it was because he decided to go after Old Man Grey without a plan which was why he got that headache when he came back?" She shrugged, "Using his head is really not his forte unfortunately."

"On a different note, I really want to get out of this costume. It's really hot in here, did you know that?" The shorter red-headed wolf complained as she readjusted her balloon suit.

MICK: She had been enjoying her time and conversation with the restaurant owner so much that were it not for the other woman's sister making a point to run back into the diner and give her a kiss goodbye, Mick wouldn't have even noticed what time it was.

The Sheriff politely excused herself, remembering there had been an actual point to her having accepted the invite. She spotted the usual group of kids and made her way over just in time to hear the unmistakable voice of Luke Jr. coming from a semi-deflated balloon. "Oi, Tiny Terror, think you can point me in the direction of your mom?" she asked. She began heading in the indicated direction before adding, "And if you plan on taking that thing off you better be wearing something else underneath or else you're leaving with me for indecent exposure."

KEAGAN: If it weren't for Ayden physically pulling her away, Keagan would have given the Beta a few more smacks in the back in the head because he clearly deserved it even though he was being painfully ignorant at the moment. Her attention was eventually being diverted by the rest of the gang who decided to change topics. And for the better because now she was deeply engaged in this new conversation.

It was just in the corner of her eyes that she spotted this large shadow and although she knew she was in a safe space - Keagan had spent so long in the field that her natural instinct to be on alert at all times still kicked in. Turning around abruptly, it wasn't until she realized what she was looking at that she stopped herself from accidentally taking down her friend. "Your outfit has so much creep factor to it." She sighed as she visibly relaxed back in her seat. "Aren't you hot with that mask?"

MICK: Not that the sight of Braxton getting smacked around wasn't entertaining, but Mick was rather relieved to see when Keagan's attention was focused elsewhere before she was forced to intervene. Not because of Brax, but because she'd rather have a word with the woman while she wasn't in the midst of attacking her beta.

It made her chuckle to see how keen the HSI agent's instincts still were, and only served to reaffirm that her decision was in the right. "Well, I've been told I'm even hotter without it so..." she laughed before nodding to have the woman follow her a bit aways. "I've been meaning to get a word in. I'm sure it's no surprise that the home office keeps contact with the department, considering we've had your subordinate enmeshed in out town for quite a while now," she began, "They made mention of considering a reassignment for you as well, and I have to say, you made quite the impression at the Council Meeting. Speak of which, I'm sure I don't have to over state just how imperative it is that we have a new Chief Deputy as soon as possible. Of course, I'd remiss if I didn't mention that pretty much any assignment of a supernatural HSI Agent to Fallcrest, tends to be pretty permanent...." she pulled out a badge from within her cloak. "So, what do you say? Does Chief Deputy Keagan Benson have a ring to it?"

KEAGAN: Keagan had no idea what to expect when Mick asked to speak to her privately. While Blake did suggest it earlier, she didn't think she was actually going to be offered the job within the day. While it was no surprise that their departments kept in touch, she didn't think that they were also considering Keagan herself to be reassigned to Fallcrest. "I didn't do much at the meeting except antagonize Old Man Grey." The wolf was clearly still sour that she didn't knock the man out when she could.

Her eyes dropped down to the badge, though she didn't take it right away. Without a doubt, there were more pros than cons in taking this role. "You really want me to be your new Chief Deputy?" She chuckled, "Are you sure?" In the end, she took the badge and slowly ran her thumb over it. "I'm assuming that my boss already expected me to stay here when I mentioned I was coming home for my break." She chuckled before offering a hand towards the Sheriff, "Then I guess we'll be working with each other more often now."

MICK: Couldn’t help but chuckle a bit at the woman’s observation. “Well, you certainly managed to deal with the old fart far better than that beta of yours did,” she said, nodding her head in the man’s direction. “But seriously, you had some really great observations and were one of the first to begin trying to set up a plan for what’s to come. If I’m to be completely honest, I’d offer you my job but it’s kind of a blood-in-blood-out kind of thing.”

Mick removed her mask and gave a definitive nod. “I would honestly be honored to have you join my squad. Your track record speaks for itself and it certainly helps to know that you have ties to the people in the town itself.” Taking the offered hand she gave it firm shake before stating, “Your Tiny Terror looks like her costume suddenly filled with helium with how ready to run over she is.”

KEAGAN: "Brax seems to have lost even more braincells after that day." She rolled her eyes, mood dampered slightly at the mention of her beta. "Mick, even if it weren't, I wouldn't dare to replace you. You're a good sheriff from what I hear. You did good at the meeting too. I simply added my two cents in."

Keagan smiled when the sheriff started listing off the pros of hiring her. "The honour's mine. Honestly, I didn't think I'd actually be offered the job. I thought Blake was kidding." Her eyes trailed over to where her daughter was and indeed, Skylar was definitely itching to come over here. Bless Erin for keeping her daughter from bolting over here before the conversation even ended. Keagan didn't want to disappoint the shortest member the Scooby gang. "I guess she noticed I took the job." She chuckle, "Maybe I should head over before she self-combust." Her feet was already leading herself over to the table though she did turn around without stopping a beat, "Thanks, Mick. Really." It really was more than simply offering her a new job.

MICK: “As long he manages to find them for when it matters, I suppose the rest is unfortunately just collateral damage,” she noted. Mick was never really one to feel any credit was due to herself, constantly feeling like she was just reacting to the chaos around her, but she offered the other woman a courteous smile nonetheless. “Town’s managed to give a girl some experience.”

The Sheriff gave a light laugh. “I can’t say I won’t miss the added benefit of your predecessor’s knack for mixing tech and magic, but something tells me you’re more than suited for the job as it is.” As her new Deputy began to head to her kid, Mick nodded and said, “Don’t thank me yet. Now you’re stuck with the spastic giant. I’ll see you at the office tomorrow. Ten sharp.” And with that she headed back to her place at the counter

SKYLAR: n had been talking with her friends when the sight of her mother following the sheriff caught her attention. With Blake's earlier remarks, the wolf got excited but at the same time didn't want to raise her hopes up which was why she didn't say anything. Unfortunately, that just had her distracted the whole time.

And Sky definitely eavesdropped on the conversation once the badge was pulled out. "Oh my god, oh my god" she wanted to just run over at that moment if her girlfriend's arms weren't around her.

"I think mom's the new deputy. Oh my god. She's staying. Guys, she's staying."

ERIN: She was almost certain that if Sky wasn't encompassed in the balloon, there would have been absolutely no way she'd have been able to keep a hold on her. Obviously the witch didn't fault the younger woman, but it also would likely not make the best of first impressions on her mother's new boss if the redhead just ran up to them mid-conversation.

When she finally saw Keagan making her way over, she let go of her Balloon so she could go up to her mom and turned to raise her glass up to the rest of the gang. "Cheers to the new Deputy!"

KEAGAN: She laughed when she saw the balloon was finally released and charged towards her. The mother wolf held her ground when her daughter literally jumped into her arms - regardless of her size, Keagan carried her back towards the table where all the kids were.

"Thanks, everyone." She smiled as she dropped her daughter back on the ground before pulling her in for a side hug, planting a brief kiss on the crown of Sky's head. "I guess I'll be staying in town from here on out."

TOMI: She couldn't help but feel happy for her best friend. Tomi knew how close to her mom Skylar had always been and how much it had hurt her to have to say good-bye so often. The sight of Kegan carrying around a Stay Pufft balloon also helped. She lifted her own cup along with the others at Erin's call for a toast.

But, as was proving to be the most emotionally exhausting of trends, it seemed that her happiness just wasn't meant to last. "Fuck," she whispered as the sound of the diner door made her look over only to catch sight of her, "Dad?"

BRAXTON: His eyes narrowed the moment he smelled James coming onto the property. And there he was at the door. While the man was still part of the pack, it wasn't news to anyone that James didn't like any of the Rendalls. And it was almost like a habit that Braxton go up from his spot to physically block James from the rest of the crowd. "James, I didn't think Halloween parties were your thing." It might be a polite way of asking why the fuck he was here.

JAMES: l little meeting they'd had caused quite a few of the werewolf's carefully placed chess pieces to be taken out of play quite quickly and in one fell swoop. With Old Man Grey's nefarious actions now under the microscope, it was really only a matter of time before his own actions came under scrutiny, and even he wasn't brazen enough to believe he'd get away with any of them, truth be told.

But as he made his into the diner, knowing full-well he was unwelcome by more than just a few people in attendance, he knew that if he was going down, it wouldn't be without a fight. Even if it was just a metaphorical one... "Well, it can't be said that one of the requirements to help lead a pack is wit...obviously. Come up with that dig all on your own did you?"

KEAGAN: She would love nothing more than to continue to hug her daughter but as of late, their beta hadn't been making the wisest decisions. With a sigh, she walked up and stood by Braxton. "What he meant is it's not often we see you join us, James." She also didn't want the unwelcomed guest to get near any of the kids.

"What brings you here?" As much as she disliked him, there wasn't a hint of hostility nor sarcasm in her question as she was genuinely curious about his visit.

JAMES: He took a step back and raised his hands up to show he meant no harm. It was true, after all. At least in a physical sense. James also knew that where he could easily outsmart Braxton if it came to a fight, he wasn't stupid enough to think it wouldn't escalate to include both Keagan and the rest of the present pack. Besides, he had a part to play at the moment...

When he lifted his hands, it was clear he held a small gift-wrapped item in his right. He shook it as a way to lead into his answer to the woman's question. "Work kept me away for my baby girl's big one-eight, and well, Luke has made sure I don't really come near here while I'm in town -which I honestly can't say I haven't earned-" He paused, as if overcome, before bringing both hands to close around the item and adding, "She came in wailing into my life on 10/13 at 10:13am, and from that very moment I knew that there was a fire in that girl. It may dim, it may waver, but it will never be put out." He knew he was loud enough to be heard by his 'daughter'. "Her mother knew that, even before she was actually born. Tomi Auckland Oliver-Yamada. Her mother's daughter and," he held the item to Keagan, "The proper owner of her mother's journal...if you'd be so kind as to let her have it, of course."

KEAGAN: Every hair on her arms probably rose as she cringed at James' theatrics. However, regardless if it's his character or not, it was almost second nature for Keagan to be wary of everything that James did. Her eyes narrowed with every word the man spoke. And when the book was taken out, Keagan only looked down at it before turning around towards Tomi.

She wasn't even aware that Kimiko left behind a journal, and that it was in James' hands. Taking the book, she took a quick look at the cover, flipping it over to the back to do the same as she walked over to the youngest member of the group. "Here, Tomi."

JAMES: He was glad that although it was clear that Keagan was wary of him -and the woman had every reason to be, in al honesty- that she was at the very least, moved enough by the memory of her late friend to take the journal and hand it over to Tomi anyhow.

He offered the girl a genuine smile, one he knew would more than likely haunt her nightmares rather place her at ease, but now that the 'seed' had been planted firmly in the kid's hands, his final 'fuck you, Brax' was complete. "I'll go ahead and take my leave. Let you all enjoy the rest of the evening. I'll be out of your hair again my dawn." And with that he turned to leave

BRAXTON: Braxton didn't move from his spot the entire time since he didn't trust James to not do anything. However, to his surprise, the older Oliver was more civil this time around. He watched until James wasn't even in the parking lot anymore before he moved from his spot.

His eyes wandered to the younger girl who now had the book, wondering what Kimi had left behind for her daughter. If the book had come from James himself, he would personally throw it out. "Are you going to read it now, kiddo?"

TOMI: Her father's entire performance was surreal enough on its own, but past experience had her anxiety flaring to the point where she dare not even breath too loud for fear of bringing about some disaster that might end in her friends' night being completely ruined. She managed a meek 'Thank you, Aunty K' when the journal was handed to her, but her eyes never left the man. She would never really feel safe until he was out of town once more, but she prayed for his exit from the diner at least to be quick. That last smile almost broke her, but the thought of already having everyone's attention was enough to help keep her together.

Once he left, she finally got a chance to really look down at the leather-bound journal now in her hands. It was faux leather -of course, she thought- and just a glance she could tell that it was something that had been used a lot. Braxton's voice broke her focus, as seeing him reminded her that they were all still collectively miffed at the beta. "No, I think I'll wait until I'm on my own for that. Unlike some folks, I can read a room just as well as I can read words."

BRAXTON: He blanked at the answer Tomi gave him. The tone made him look around the room, only to spot a few similar expressions pointed towards him. "Oh. Right. Yeah. You do you." For the first time tonight, he finally did feel embarrassed. The cold shoulder did throw him off guard for a moment there.

Taking a few steps back into the center of the diner, he looked around for his best friend also did have a simliar tone. Putting two and two together, Izzy may or may not be upset with him.

He eventually found Izzy and decided to walk towards her. "...Hey." He took off his obnoxious hat, clutching it in his hands as he approached the other. "You uh.. got a minute?"

IZZY: She had actually found the company of the other mothers to be a rather welcome change. Keagan was great, but her little one -though still technically little- was obviously more on par with her twin tornados than her tiny twins right now. Having them around to discuss things that still seemed to relate to the younger spectrum of kids was nice.

Her mood took slight dive at the sound of her friend's voice, but she was polite enough to still respond. "I do, but I'll be honest with you Braxton Walker, my tolerance for your act of 'Mr. Cool' is running pretty low tonight."

BRAXTON: Yes, Izzy has made it very clear that she was not happy with him. Braxton really should have known the moment Izzy walked away from him back there. No wonder everyone was giving him that look. He did give feel a wave of relief when she wasn't mad enough to stop talking to him altogether.

"Yeah.. I know... but uh.. Can we talk? Please?" He didn't dare to shift his focus anywhere else because Izzy is his priority right now.

IZZY: She turned to both politely excuse herself from the conversation she’d been in and to ask if the pair minded keeping an eye on her girls. Once reassured they’d be fine, she followed the man to a more private area.

“So, what would you like to talk about that you suddenly find yourself unwilling to just announce it to the entire diner?”

BRAXTON: He ran his hand through his hair, gripping onto a handful of hair as he thought through his words. After a moment, he released it along with a sigh. "I'm sorry, Iz." He began with an apology. "I may have been acting like an asshole." He paused, "I did - well, am? was? Um. Okay, I did a very asshole thing." He was tripping over his words. "And.. And I'm sorry for hurting you."

IZZY: She took a moment to allow herself to think through and process Brax’s ‘apology’. The last thing she wanted was to have her own reaction cause the fissure in their friendship to widen.

“Well, you are correct, in so far as to say that you have been acting like an asshole,” she began, before letting out a resigned sigh and just asking, “But do you even know what it is that hurt me? Because of you don’t, this apology is useless because you’re probably just going to do it again.”

BRAXTON:  that Tomi had just passive-aggressively said, along with Izzy's very own words a while ago - on top of the things that had been said over time and the reactions to it - Braxton had an idea. "When I publicly announced that um.." He looked down to the ground in shame, "Well, you do always say I keep running from my fear of responsibilities which.. my actions just then sorta proved it.. again." He looked up at Izzy, "Iz, you're my best friend.. and I don't know what'd I'd do if things gets messed up between us."

IZZY: She could only offer him a sympathetic look. Izzy knew Braxton well enough to know that there wasn't a malicious bone in his body, but she also knew that he'd essentially conditioned himself into this exceedingly aloof person, and after so many years it just seemed to almost make him callous in a way to certain things.

It was an exceedingly conflicting situation to find herself in, and at this very moment she didn't feel she had the energy to properly think everything through. "That's what make this so ironic, isn't it? You don't know what you'd do if things got messed up between us, and yet here we are. Even after all the times I tried to politely address this with you, still felt the need to remind everyone within earshot that you were just a free-spirited dude that didn't like to have attachments and responsibilities, all the while your friend, who is a newly single-mom with two babies and living in your house, is standing right behind you..." She reached up and gently stroked his face before pulling her hand back and saying, "I think the best course of action for now is to go ahead and give you the space you seem to want, and honestly, that I need. So I'll be heading back to the ranch with the girls tonight, and go pick up my stuff tomorrow"

BRAXTON: Braxton knew he screwed up, and while he didn't want this rift between them, he wanted to respect Izzy's decision so he simply nodded at the end of it. "I'm really sorry, Iz.." He apologized again before giving distance between them. While the party was still going on, the beta felt that maybe he should excuse himself for the night. "...Will we be alright?" He couldn't help but ask before he fully walked away. His friend was right though. Despite his efforts to keep things as they are, his fear eventually happened and frankly, he had no idea how to fix this.

IZZY: “I know,” she replied, because it was true. If anyone understood he genuinely felt regret, it was her. When he turned around, it took her a moment to answer and when she did, it was the most honest she could ever be: “I certainly hope so.”

BRAXTON: With a defeated sigh, he turned to continue his way out, taking out his phone to leave a message in his siblings' group chat that he was going to call it a night before slipping out of the diner as quiet as he could - quite the opposite of how his entrance was hours ago.

SEAN: His attention had been split three ways: His twin to ensure she was okay after her prick of a dad showed up, their older sister as she had a word with Brax and returned on her own, and Amaryllis as she dealt with the fact her sister was just a few booths away.

He relaxed only slightly as he watched Izzy make her way back to the other moms and her girls, relatively okay. “I think tonight turned out be way more eventful than we planned for…which tracks.”

AMARYLLIS: She hadn't budged from the spot since arriving to this party and she had observed so many things since then. Amaryllis couldn't help but give her boyfriend an odd look when he said that things were more eventful tonight as if there was a day of peace in this town. "Just tonight? I wish it was just one night." She rolled her eyes. "It's like the universe is constantly telling us to never have a get together but we just keep ignoring it."

ARTEMIS: "In all fairness, I think you'd be considered a little bias in regards to what message it is that the universe is trying to send Miss-I'm-Allergic-to-People," Artie teased. "Besides, it's not just get togethers. This town is just fucking bonkers on its own. There's a powerful magical source in our forest that half the town doesn't even knows exists, yet it's been the cause of just about every recent major 'weather' disaster."

AVERY: "And yet it's home to everyone." She snorted, "What was it that Aunt Blake always say? Born in Fallcrest, Die in Fallcrest? That really should be the slogan of this town because no one leaves." She stuck a thumb out towards Skylar, "Even her mom, who did leave.. is now back. Permanently." She turned to Keagan, who was still there. "Love that you're here though." It was clear she wasn't complaining in the slightest. "Anyways, there's never a dull moment, that's for sure."

TOMI: She was about to make a remark about how not all that were born in Fallcrest should be allowed to return, when the diner door's bell caught her attention. Tomi was already on edge with James' sudden appearance, and for a second she felt her stomach drop thinking he'd opted to return after Brax had decided to leave.

To her relief, the sight at the door was definitely not her father. "Speaking of never having a dull moment," she said by way of getting the gang's attention to look at their new arrival. "Seems like the surprises just keep coming."

DEVIN: When she first learned that her daughter had not only skipped school but also skipped town entirely, she was livid. Devin knew why and where Peyton went because she had been telling both her husband and herself all about her discoveries ever since she learned that she had a sister somewhere out there. It wasn't long after when she received a call from someone who reported that Peyton was in Fallcrest which was pretty much why she was here in the first place.

Stepping through the doors of the diner with her husband in tow, it seemed that everyone's attention was already on her before she even said anything. Her senses honed in onto her daughter however she take a step forward and simply gave her a stern look.

KALA: When the miraculous happenstance of Peyton Dawson suddenly falling silent and still coincided with the new arrivals, Kala turned to take a look. Glancing between the blonde and the man behind her, it didn't take genius to sort out who they were. Immediately her brain went back to mission mode, now aware that she had to keep all three members of the family away from her friend.

Thinking on her feet, she stood as if she were about to swap to sit next to Peyton, stopping short when the woman approached the booth. This placed her physically between them and Amaryllis. "Oh darn, and I was just about to cave and accept your offer to dance to," she said with a faux look of disappointment.

PEYTON: l of her parents did render her speechless, almost wanting to shrink down and meet into her seat if she could. However, Kala's next words had her brain working again. "Wait, you really willing to dance with me?" Her eyes grew large again but for a whole different reason as she looked towards her parents without saying a word. It was an eye battle between the puppy eyes and the daggers her mom was giving her.

Eventually, the silence was killing her and Peyton had to talk, "This is my new friend and I would really, really like to dance with her, mom."

Honestly, if her sister had wanted to talk with her, she'd bring attention to Amaryllis first but considering that everyone in town is not letting that happen until the older girl said yes, Peyton opted for this instead.

KALA:  knew almost as soon as the words had left her mouth, that she would likely come to regret it. Granted, beggars can't be choosers, and she was limited in the ways she could address this current situation without it escalating. Turning to face Peyton she simply said, "Yeah, I mean I figured one dance couldn't hurt. But, with our new guests, I can't really let my boss see me slacking, ya know. I mean, if they wanted to head over to the Radcliffe and meet us there..."

OCTAVIUS: He came from behind his wife to give his daughter a hug. "You worried us, sweetie." He chuckled when he noticed that Devin hasn't budged from her spot. "She's worried too, you know. You can't just run off like that. Without telling us either!" He sighed as he turned his attention to Peyton's new friend. "It's nice to meet you Kala, thanks for keeping an eye on her. She just constantly gets herself into trouble but I'm sure that comes from no surprise." He offered his hand, "I'm Octavius and this is my wife, Devin."

At the mention of the dance and Kala wanting them to head to the Radcliffe instead, he led his wife into the booth. "Just one dance won't work, right? Peyton's made a new friend despite the circumstances so let's just give her the one dance. She's safe and sound too." He looked over to his wife who only rolled her eyes, probably silently scolding him for spoiling her.

LEO: er had already been making her way over to the group as soon as the diner door had sounded. She was close enough to catch the majority of the exchange to see that it was clear the couple wouldn't be leaving soon. So she stepped in. Kala would just have to hate her for it later. "Go on, Kala. I'll be sure to keep the Dawsons company in the meantime."

Sliding into the booth on the opposite side of the table, the woman introduced herself. "I'm Leo Avraham, owner of the Radcliffe. We've been in touch about Peyton already, though I must say I wasn't expecting you until at least tomorrow morning at the earliest."

DEVIN: Devin watched her daughter become more excited by the second when Kala was told to go dance for a bit. She really was her husband's daughter, there was no doubt there at all. She then focused her attention to the woman in front of them, who turned out to be the Leo they had been speaking to. "Yes, the trip went a lot smoother than we thought." They had predicted a lot more traffic than there actually was. "And I may have driven faster than I should've... Who's to say? A pleasure to finally put a face to the name. I'm Devin, as you may already know, this is Octavius."

SEAN: It really didn't take long for the entire booth -and the one next over- to have figured out who it was that had just arrived. It was made even more glaringly obvious by the fact that Leo herself was taking the place of Kala in keeping them on the opposite side of the diner.

Glancing over to his girlfriend, he offered her a soft and reassuring smile as he offered, "We can head out if you'd like? Call it a night."

AMARYLLIS: Her eyes haven't left the blonde woman ever since she stepped in the diner. It was painfully obvious that this was her biological mother. Peyton clearly took after the father but even Amaryllis could tell that she took after her mother herself. "That's.." her attention bounced between her boyfriend and her mom. She had been adamant not to meet any of her family members but now that they were all here, the cat shifter was at a lost.

Despite her efforts of claiming that she didn't care, she still felt anger towards the woman who abandoned her but at the same time, she was curious. "I don't..Know?"

SEAN: He couldn't begin to imagine the conflicted feelings that Amaryllis would be feeling right now, but he would damn well do his best to help her work her way through them as best as he could manage. "Yeah, that would be her," he finished for her.

Not even bothering to spare another glance back, he simply reached down to grab onto her hand and gently squeezed in an attempt to give her some sort of grounding. "It's alright. She's over there, and you're right here with me. You can think on it, there's no rush. If you happen to decide that you would like to approach her, I'd be more than happy to go with you."

AVERY: "Or...." The youngest Rendall decided to pipe up, "If you want to plan murder, we can also do that too!" That definitely deserved the smack in the head that her girlfriend decided to give her. "Ah. I'm just saying. If you want to get angry, we'll get angry with you." She chuckled, "But I guess the bean's suggestion is better. Smarter. But just remember, if you want help burying people, we be down."

TOMI: “Not that I think Aunty K has forgotten your lovely sense of humor Aves, but she legit just got her badge and you’re already offering murder options right in front of her salad,” she exclaimed, before looking over at Amaryllis. “We can all go over together as well, if that would help. You’re one of us, and have been for a while now. If you need your fam to back you up, we’re on it.”

AMARYLLIS: She could barely register what everyone was saying but she figured that they were saying that they got her back which wasn't surprising at all considering who this group was. "...What would I even say?" She glanced over the other table again, "It doesn't even seem like she noticed I'm here - or maybe she doesn't know who I am?"

SEAN: “I think you could always start off with your name, and maybe take a moment to ask her the question or questions you’ve always wanted to know the answer to? She made a choice that affected your entire life, I think it’s only fair you get to dictate how this conversation goes,” he offered

AMARYLLIS: "...Right." She took several breaths because she was much more anxious than she thought. Her mother was in town - albeit only here to pick up their impulsive daughter, but still here nonetheless. Amaryllis hated that she was curious about the woman who abandoned her.

Although she still hadn't figured out how she wanted to start the conversation at all, Amaryllis got up from her seat and waited til Sean was still with her before making her way towards the booth. They were only halfway when her feet stopped. Thank god Sean was a wolf because the amount of strength she was using to grip his hand might injure a mundane.

SEAN: He kept his pace measured and purposely a step behind the brunette, not wanting to make her feel like she was being rushed or pushed in any way. They made a collective effort as the extended family that they had all become to make sure that this was all on her terms, and he wasn't going to risk ruining that for her now.

When she stopped, he dutifully came to a stop beside her. Sean briefly wondered how such small, dainty hands could manage to have the strength to have crushed any other man's larger calloused one, but didn't pay it too much mind. Instead he lent down and reassured her, "This is your moment to have or to not. There is no point at which it will ever be too late for us to walk away if you feel that's the better choice for you, okay?"

AMARYLLIS: Not that she was feeling anymore courageous as she was when she divided to walk towards the booth, Amaryllis continued the rest of the way until she stood in front of them. Well, more so, approached Leo's side of the bench than her mother's. The girl stilled as she took in the older woman's appearance.

LEO: It was apparent that Amaryllis was more than a fair bit in over her head at the moment. When Embry had been to meet her birth mother, she'd had a support system in Leo herself and the half-demon felt that there was no reason why she shouldn't lend that same support to Amaryllis now.

"These are some of my daughter's best friends," she began by way of facilitating the introductions. "Sean Irwin, and Amaryllis Flynn."

DEVIN: It didn't take long for Devin to notice just who was approaching them. Her eyes stayed on the brunette, wrapping her mind around the fact that this was her daughter - the one she never thought she'd see again. Her husband was smiling as he always did. Somehow both Dawsons were more eager and excited to meet Amaryllis where as Devin was internally freaking out herself.

"Hi." She found her voice when she felt a small nudge from her husband. "I'm Devin." She introduced again, not sure what she's supposed to say to her nor did she feel like she had the right to ask for anything. Not only that, she was clearly the outsider due to the fact that her daughter had so many people protecting her.

AMARYLLIS: "Hi..." She spoke quietly. How does one go about this? Needless to say, she was freaking out and it was Sean's grip on her that she hadn't already bolted out of her. "...I hear that there's a chance that.. you're my mother - according to that kid over there." She had no idea what she was doing but regardless, she looked out to her supposed half-sister who seemed to be thrilled that she got to dance with Kala.

PEYTON: She was very surprised when Kala actually joined her on the dance floor. Of course, she was very aware that part of it was so that they could keep an eye on everyone to avoid Amaryllis from coming across any of them. However, as they were dancing, she couldn't help but notice her sister making her way to her parents. "Oh my god, Kala! Kala look!" She would have shook the other if she wasn't also scared of Kala also killing her for being annoying. "They're talking." If one could even discribe it as that.

KALA: It wasn't necessarily something she tended to make public knowledge, but in this moment she guessed it was best to know how to dance as opposed to not. That didn't mean that she wouldn't be griping about this to both Leo and Andy come morning. Especially when her dance partner suddenly went spastic on her again and was all in a tiff over the exchange of glances between her mother and Amaryllis. "Is that what they're doing?"

PEYTON: "Well, I mean sort of.. My dad hasn't said anything which I get since this is about them. But at least Amaryllis went up to her right? She didn't even want to see me when I came. I like to think this is an improvement. And like, they did say a few words. Which is more than I expected okay? Oh my god, I have been waiting for this to happen. I know I should be regretting causing so much trouble but part of me... isn't. Like you don't even know. My mom is legit nervous right now."

KALA: "Is she?" came the question, and though her tone as full of doubt her training had her keyed in on the fact the woman actually was. Asking questions just seemed to be the most effective way to keep from having to talk while still keeping the girl -still very much in her personal space- from becoming upset...for whatever reason extroverts functioned like they did.

PEYTON: She couldn't help but laugh aloud at that. "I get it. My mom doesn't look like it but I guarantee you that she is. After all, she had an idea why I'm here. If she wasn't nervous, dad wouldn't be here. Either she'd come here herself OR she'd send dad here alone." She shrugged, "I told you that she wanted to meet Amaryllis."

KALA: Even as she rolled her eyes an amused smile tugged at her lips at the sound of the girl laughing. If asked, she would definitely blame the -minimal- amounts of alcohol that she had managed to consume, but it one could almost say Peyton was growing on her....almost. "Well, it seems that the main concern for my friend is now being actively addressed, which means that you are now technically free to go do as you please....with whoever else you please."

PEYTON: She rounded back to Kala, almost surprised by what she said, "Wait." Her smile did fall at that, "Are you getting rid of me now that Amaryllis approached my parents first? Which I understand was the whole point of keeping us away until then but.. I didn't think you'd try to get rid of me." Granted, she lowkey thought Kala would just up and walk away without a word so it was already a surprise that the other was letting her know. "Mm.... But I like hanging out with you though?"

KALA: hunter simply made a face that indicated that was exactly what she was doing, and that it really shouldn't be a surprise. It was the last bit that caused her to actually react more as her eyes widened slightly and she said, "Jesus H. Christ, you can't just go around saying things like that when the most annoying person on the planet has super hearing is like a stone's throw from us as it is." She ventured a glance in Avery's direction before relenting and just saying, "Come on. I can at least walk over there with you....I guess"

MAITE: Ever since Avery decided to have her sit in her lap, Maite found it to be a very good way to keep her girlfriend at bay. Especially now when Kala was making her way to their booth along with Peyton. Her girlfriend was almost determined to poke at the dragon but Maite gave her a warning look. She really didn't want Avery to die by Kala's hands today. "Hi." She greeted, "You must be Peyton. We've heard about you."

KALA: "Excellent! So you guys know who this is, a handful already got to introduce yourselves, the rest can feel free to so now or whatever and, uh, my job here is done. I'm going to get enjoy the rest of my now lukewarm beer. Have fun kids."

AVERY: Clearly this wolf just couldn't help herself. It took a lot to hold back when she heard Peyton saying that she liked hanging out with the dragon despite all the complaints. "Wow, your date really could not wait to rid of you." She snorted, "But it's okay! You can hang with us. Well, until... your sister.. comes back I guess? Nothing personal though but I have no idea how that conversation is going because they were having some sort of eye contact showdown the last I checked."

KALA: Her back wasn't even fully turned to the group before she was turning back around to fully face the very girl she'd been attempting not to have to confront anymore this night. "Okay, I get now," she began before Peyton even had a chance to respond herself. "It's not that Braxton lacks the ability to read a fucking room or is too braindead to care if what he says will affect anyone because in the end it's his need to feel witty and aloof that matters, it just happens to be a genetic trait."

She made sure to lock eyes with Avery so her point came across clear. "Do you genuinely think that someone whose family is in the active process of going through a pretty major change would find any of what you just said funny, let alone reassuring, in any capacity?"

AVERY: her back straighten up as she held her hands up as a symbol of surrender. "Look, shit. I'm sorry, that came out wrong. I wasn't trying to gaslight anything. I just figured she might be nervous about coming here.. when we're all friends with her sister. So it might be like, weird or whatever so I thought I'd keep it light. Of course, I am now very aware I said the wrong thing to which I apologize." She looked over to Peyton. "And as my brain caught up with me, and sorta just thought aloud about what might happen if - and I swear I'm not trying to jinx this - if the conversation. I swear, I'm not poking fun at the situation at all." Unlike Brax, Avery actually looked apologetic after she said what she said. "...In hind sight, I shouldn't have had said anything at all, should I?" She couldn't help but groan at her own stupidity.

KALA: “In hindsight, your focus should be on thinking about what you’re going to say, before you say it.” Her tone was stern, but even the partial shift that had been part of her costume was gone as she looked at the youngest Rendall. “There’s a big difference between taking the piss and pissing someone the fuck off and not knowing the difference can lead to fuck ups at best and very dangerous situations at worst. Each of you -yes that includes you Avery- is the closest thing I have to actual friends…maybe even family, and without getting all sentimental or whatever, it’s fucking infuriating to realize when one of you has decided to stop using the thing between your ears. Especially in this town. Now, let’s take it from top. Peyton, these are the ragtag bunch collectively known as the Scoobies. They’ve managed to do right by your sister, I know they can do the same for you.”

EMBRY: "I'm Embry..." She decided that maybe someone else besides Avery should speak. "And like Kala said, we're friends of your sister but you are also more than welcome to join us too." She threw a look at the older wolf, who seemed to just be staring at Kala with a look close to awe. Probably becAuse Kala considered her as a friend.

EVAN: old, the only thing keeping Evan from pulling a stunt similar to Avery’s but the wolf’s own expense was that Emmy was right there, and that girl had quickly become the demon’s main source of impulse control. Instead she smiled at the newcomer and introduced herself as well. “I’m Evan, and I think Kala just broke a few folks by calling them friends….they’re going to make it weird.”

SKYLAR: n who was still very attached to the new Deputy, as well as her own girlfriend perked up her head. "I'm Sky - Skylar but everyone calls me Sky." She waved, "I'd take off my costume but it'd deflate so.. I kinda need to keep it on." She lied, actually wondering if her mom believed her or not.

ERIN: It took everything in her not to laugh at the excuse Sky gave for not taking off her costume, and even she ended up having to play of a snort as a sneeze. “Excuse me,” she said with a smile. “I’m Erin, I’m actually fairly new to the team myself but I can vouch that they’re a very welcoming sort. If any crew can, usually, make you feel welcome, it’s this one.”

KEAGAN: While she didn't know what Sky was hiding, Keagan only guessed that she was hiding something. And if Luke or Erin didn't say anything about it, it wasn't anything too alarming. While she wasn't actually part of this group, her daughter refused to let her go. "I'm Keagan, mother to this balloon over here. I am just trapped here by her if I'm honest." She joked which received an offended gasp from Skylar.

ARTEMIS: “Don’t let her fool you,” Artie began warningly, “She’s also the new Chief Deputy. Better keep the straight and narrow around that one…or well, maybe not-so-straight.” She laughed at her own joke before a look from Erin made her stop and just add, “I’m Artemis, but everyone calls me Artie.”

CATALINA: "You already know who I am!" She chuckled before wrapping her arms around Artemis, "Don't worry about getting into trouble though." She giggled, "I think Avery and Artie would get into more trouble before anyone else in this group." She looked up at her girlfriend and gave a chaste kiss on her cheek. "We still love them though."

JULIAN: "I'm Julian! I'm Cat's cousin, and we technically have another older cousin, Fernanda, but she's like the consummate professional of the family so she's actually doing the whole 'reasonable bedtime' thing for work tomorrow instead of having fun. I swear she's in her 20s."

MAITE: "I'm Maite, this idiot's girlfriend." She sighed, looking over to Avery. "Really, don't mind a word she says. She usually knows better than this. Anyways, come sit. We can make room." She was willing to kick Avery out of the booth and make her stand so that Peyton will have room.

TOMI: "And I'm your sister-in-law, as we established earlier," she chuckled. "And also walking proof that this bunch is hard pressed to let their issues with one person affect a relative." Tomi glanced over Kala, "I mean, as much as a I appreciate our friend Kala's attempt to hide her face so I'm not reminded of her idiot twin, it's not necessary. Long story, but Kala was also my sister-in-law up until recently." Suddenly feeling a bit like she overshared, she added, "You know, I think I'm going to go check on the mini-twins for a little bit. Enjoy!"

PEYTON: Her eyes widened at the new information, and it was clear she wanted to say something but she waited until Tomi walked off before she eventually burst. "You have a twin??? You didn't tell me you had a sister!" She turned to the group, "Finding out things about Kala is like a treasure hunt. Just tidbits at a time."

ARTEMIS: She scoffed, "You're telling us. She and Dallas have been in town for almost two years now and if it weren't for the fact they have the same freaking face, I highly doubt any of us would have even considered the idea that they may just be related. Also, I don't even know if I can tell you what Kala's full name is."

AVERY: Avery, who had been quiet for this entire time, finally spoke up again, "You consider me as your friend?" Her face was absolutely glowing with delight as she pulled her girlfriend in for a tight hug, squealing at the fact. "Oh! And yes, we wouldn't have known they'd be sisters if it weren't for their faces. The two barely talks about the other either. But if you really want to take a peek at her, you'll find her at the club. She's the DJ there."

KALA: She had half a mind to follow after Tomi and make sure she was okay, but felt that leaving Peyton alone with access to all of the Scoobies and their collective 'one' braincell was a terrible idea. "Yes, I have a twin sister. Her name is Dallas, and she's a DJ," she provided, effectively repeating information others had already mentioned. Turning to face Avery all she could do was say, "You make me regret my life choices."

EMBRY: When she saw that Tomi left the table again, she silently excused herself too - though it seemed that a few of their members were too invested about Kala and Dallas to even notice. The blonde went over to where Tomi was - though Obie also thought it was a good idea to join them. Scooping him up, she littered soft kisses all over him. "Hey." She spoke softly once she sat next to Tomi. "How are you holding up?"

TOMI: Although her intention had been to be distracted by babies, MJ decided he was the only baby she needed as soon as she set foot in the 'kiddie area'. And he wasn't wrong. She was in the midst of enjoying his show of unconditional snuggles, when Embry joined in the party.

"I'm alright. Just got a bit embarrassed that I was airing my personal business in front of the new kid....which I suppose in itself wouldn't have been a big deal normally, but it's been an eventful night," she chuckled.

EMBRY: n understatement. Embry never felt so many tense moments within a few hours of a party. If any past events were to compare, this Halloween party took the cake. "I mean.. of all things to happen tonight.. Peyton probably won't mind. But speaking of everything tonight.. are you sure you're okay?" While she wasn't completely in the know, she was aware that Mr. Oliver was very unwelcomed in this circle of people.

TOMI: t drew a small laugh from her, as Embry was right. In the grand scheme of things, Peyton was likely to be more engrossed in whatever else than the fact Tomi shared her own drama. The question made the laugh trickle down, her focus going back to the collie in her lap. "Yeah, he's gone now and hopefully he'll gone out for town for another while longer after that. Regardless, I'm eighteen now, and I'm staying at the Cabin  so even if he sticks around I won't have to see him."

She glanced back up in time to watch as Evan swiftly stepped in to intercept the tiny blonde boy that had been running at them and how he quickly had his attention diverted. "Looks like you might have some competition for your new 'older' and 'mature' girlfriend," she teased.

EMBRY: Mr. Oliver was definitely someone she'd never ever want to be in the same room in, and she for sure didn't want Tomi to be alone with him for any longer than she already had been. "Well.. We should do like.. a sleepover one day, at the cabin." She suggested, "I'd say all girls night but ... we're literally all girls except for Sean and we can't leave him out." She chuckled.

Looking up, she saw that her girlfriend had graciously dealt with her brother so that he didn't interrupt this conversation. "That's what I've been telling her! I basically have to share my girlfriend with Levi." The wolf complained but held no malice in her words. Her brother had easily become her entire world, and to see everyone interact with him just warmed her heart. "Thankfully I have Obie here."

TOMI: that spread across her face at the suggestion could probably only be described as radiant. “OMG that’s such a great idea, but honestly I’m more hype about the fact that it’s you who’s suggesting it! Emmy! You’ve gone from barely talking to any of us to suggesting a sleepover?! I might genuinely cry!”

At her words she couldn’t help but laugh as she thought back to Sky’s texts from the other night. “Well something tells me sharing your new girlfriend with your little brother is better than being ‘cockblocked’ by your dog. Or at least Sky made it sound like it was torture so…”

EMBRY: "I.. you're exaggerating." She chuckled softly. It wasn't that she didn't want to be friends with any of them, she just didn't know she was going to stay here permanently this time around. The last time she set down roots in this town, she was abruptly moved out of town within the year. "Just let us know when you want it.. I guess we'll have to ask Luke and Keagan too since they'll be there."

Her eyes looked back to the booth where their friends were, "Is that what's been happening? I thought Sky likes having MJ around? I was about to say that the rest of us have dogs too, but .. Obie has Bullet as company."

TOMI: "I'm definitely not, and I have witnesses that will back me up," she replied, but relented and said, "But we understood. Trust us, we were probably just as happy as you were to find out you were going to get to stay for the long haul." At the mention of her current hosts' names she took a peek at her cell. "Oh, speak of the devil, Luke just sent me a text that they're on their way back to the diner, so I'm guessing things went well for them. Aunty K will likely just ask that any couples be split up once 'bedtime' rolls around."

Tomi just laughed and said, "To quote her 'Erin has a favorite puppy and it's not me', so as much as she loves her cousin-son, I think this dude is probably going to be going back with us to the cabin tonight." She paused for a moment before looking over at Embry mischievously. "So what exactly do you and Evan get up to while Obie and Bullet are keeping each other company then?"

EMBRY: It took a while to get Embry out of her shell, but she was grateful of the time and effort that everyone, especially Leo, gave for it to happen. "Or for everyone to be in the same room... Anyways, do you think they caught any "evidence" for their ghost stuff?"

Embry had to let out a laugh. Her friend was a Lot more spoiled than she thought - although that shouldn't come as a surprise considering how she acts with Luke and Keagan. "Is MJ hogging up Erin's attention? Aww. I guess that's why she's been sulking lately." Her face had a subtle hue of red as Tomi teased her, but instead of falling into prey, the blonde simply replied, "We hang out with my baby brother most of the time. Either we're sharing my girlfriend.. or I seriously have to fight my brother which is not happening."

TOMI: "Oh, I think I'll probably wait a bit until the basement is finished then or we might all end up sleeping in the living room to fit the whole squad," she mused allowed. At the question, she just nodded and said, "Oh I know they did. It may not exactly be the most genuine or irrefutable evidence, but it'll be enough to keep the humans happy. I only know because she roped me into helping her set stuff up. I think she was really just trying to keep me from staying in bed all day and listening to Taylor Swift."

She glanced back down at the dog and said, "I mean can you blame her? MJ is clearly the better red." The blush was definitely telling, but Tomi wasn't about to push either. "Oh you'll probably end up fighting him eventually. Brothers are like that."

EMBRY: "Isn't the basement still like.. I thought they haven't started with the basement at all." It sounded like the sleepover is going to be postponed for a long while. Embry gave an apologetic look to her friend, knowing that she had been feeling down ever since the break up. "Well, for what it's worth, I'm glad that you aren't either - staying in your bed listening to Taylor Swift."

Embry managed to keep herself from laughing because at that moment, the other red head was staring in their direction with wide eyes. "I..Think she heard." Embry chuckled, "I really don't think I'd fight with him.." But this was just based on her own personality.

TOMI: “They like, tore part of it down before Sky moved out, but I think we can make do with the living room. That carpet is hella nice.” It was honestly hard to believe that the two redheads had managed to transform the cabin, and she had been a part of it. She laughed again, finding that she’d managed to that a lot tonight all things considered. “Thanks, I think you’re a much better blonde to have as company.”

Tomi knew for a fact that Skylar heard, because the wolf had a knack for keeping an ear out for her name. “I’m sure she did, because she’s a nosy furball,” she said knowing her friend would catch it. “All siblings fight, it’s not a bad thing. Just means you’re both individuals who don’t always agree. So you know, human.”

SKYLAR: n, who had heard her name, was flabbergasted at what Tomi was saying even though she knew it wasn't out of all seriousness. She made her way over and plopped herself down next to the girls. "Excuse me? Did I hear that not only am I not Erin's favourite, I'm also not anyone else's favourite? The betrayal!" She gasped, "The two people I trusted."

TOMI: It was honestly a bit of a miracle that Erin and Keagan had managed to keep Skylar away from them for as long as they had. “You did. And you know why? Cause you’re a have problem with eavesdropping. Luke told me all about the spirit box she has to keep around,” Tomi was quick to shoot back. “Everyone knows you trust more than two people you overdramatic little shit.”

SKYLAR: "Look, I wouldn't be keeping an ear out if people would just stop talking about me." She rolled her eyes, "You see, Embry?! I listened in and already, I hear that I'm the least favourite of both my girlfriend and my *best *friend."

The blonde, to her credit, just wanted nothing to do with this conversation. Granted, Skylar usually only keeps an ear out when she was worried about something - much like now, when she couldn't help but be worried about Tomi after how the night went, and the girl was already upset about Dallas.

With a sigh, she dropped her theatrics, and probably looked at Tomi to see if she was actually doing better than before. Reaching out, she just rubbed the taller girl on the arm to silently tell her that she's here if she ever wanted to talk.

EMBRY: She sat there watching the two women exchange banters, and as funny as it was to see, Embry was just existing for the most part.

It wasn't until she noticed her brother eventually escaping from Evan and ran towards her. Not wanting him to interrupt, she got up from her spot and met up with him mid-way to lift him into her arms. "Hey, I thought you were playing with Evan?"

Levi: He didn’t fully process he was no longer on solid ground until he heard his sister talking. “I am! She sent me- she sent me for help! I have to get Batg- Batyou, because she’s under attack from da twin terrahs!”

EMBRY: "Ohh, the twin terrors, huh? I guess we should go save her from them then." She played along with her brother, giving a quick peck on his cheek. Excusing herself from the other two girls, Embry walked over to where Evan was with the twins. "I hear you called for help?"

EVAN: Glancing up from the tiny humans she now held in each arm she looked over at Levi first and said, “Good job, Robin! Just having Batgirl nearby seems to have convinced the girls to turn away from their life of roughhousing crime. Hashtag representation matters.” She proceeded to set the girls down as Levi then hopped down to continue their play date.

Once somewhat alone she turned to Embry and said, “It looked like you might need an out so I may have exaggerated and created a bit of crisis that required your intervention. I figured it’d be less obvious to have the munchkin go grab you.”

EMBRY: She smiled at her girlfriend's antics, but didn't comment otherwise since her brother was already distracted with playing with the twins alongside Obie who had followed them back.

"Thanks." She leaned in for a kiss, a short one as both her mom's were within proximity. "My hero, nightwing. But also thanks for keeping my brother occupied."

EVAN: Being more than aware that even though Leo was still lending support to the Grumpy Cat, Embry had another protective mom very much nearby, Evan welcomed the short kiss but didn’t dare push her luck. She’d save that for some other time.

Chuckling as they pulled apart, she made a quick show of striking a hero pose before caving and saying, “Are you kidding? Thank you for letting me borrow him so often. He’s the best brother-in-law and always thinks I’m right. Honestly, if I were like fifteen years younger and into dudes, you’d have missed out.”

EMBRY: She laughed at the pose her girlfriend decided to strike out of nowhere. "I was just telling Tomi that I'm literally sharing you with him. I don't know, I think I'm actually and honestly glad that I haven't missed out. Because clearly I would have lost to my brother."

EVAN: Evan smirked as she leaned in a bit. Just because she couldn’t really do much didn’t mean she had to completely behave… Besides, if her bossy language of leaning in to whisper something to her girlfriend didn’t scream ‘privacy’ enough and the girl’s mother opted to listen in anyway, that was Julia problem.

“You know, in all honesty, looking at you right now makes me realize that even if I were an ignorant little six year-old right now, I would very much have you to thank for my gay awakening.”

EMBRY: of red on her face right now was far from how red she was when Tomi teased her. Embry was so glad that she had a mask on but even then, she leaned forward to hid her face into the crook of Evan's neck. "Oh my god." Her words muffled against the other.

"Evan.." She whined, "My mom's right there." Not only that, she was sure that if anyone was listening -whether it was intentionally or not - would have heard it too. More than half this room had enhanced hearing anyways.

EVAN: She could only chuckle, as she brought her arms to wrap around the blonde's middle -at very respectable height- planting a quick peck to the shell of her ear. "Hey, I'm only being honest here, and besides, if anyone decided to invade our privacy and didn't like what they heard, it's on them."

EMBRY: "My brother is also here. What if he hears you?" She sighed, not daring to look up at anyone and just settled on keeping her face buried into her girlfriend.

Thankfully, the two grumpy cats decided now was a good time to re-emerge from whatever conversation they were having. "Oh.." She peeked out to see their friend's state. "I.. can't tell if it went well or not." Embry always thought she was lucky that somehow in this small world, everyone in her life was connected in some way or the other - and was now living with said everyone with the exception of her father. She wasn't sure if that was going to be the case for Amaryllis.

EVAN: Laughed lightly and said, "He's a child. Ignorance is bliss. His mind hasn't yet fallen in the gutter that yours apparently very much has..."

She turned around as Embry did to watch the group pass them by, Leo depositing herself back next to Izzy and Julia. "In all fairness, we've never been able to tell anything where that girl is concerned, and apparently it's genetic. I do suppose we'll find out soon enough though." There was very little that tended to affect one member of the Scooby gang that didn't eventually get shared with the rest. It was the strong sense of support they all got from each other that made their friendship so strong.

AMARYLLIS: sation between the two had a rough start since neither were talkative people but eventually they got words rolling. And it was also clear that neither of the women were good at expressing themselves, however once they started talking, Amaryllis did get angry at some point. She had wanted to know why she was abandoned only to find out now that her mother winded up with another kid. And to her mother's credit, she answered everything without leaving anything out.

However, one wouldn't be able to easily tell by the time she came back out. With their stoic expressions, both women went back to their respective booths without a word. Amaryllis did stop however, when she noticed that her younger sister was at the table - not that she didn't want to talk to her, just that she didn't expect to see her there.

SEAN: t Sean was the least confrontational person by nature, would be an understatement. And he was almost certain that if Tomi had been able to witness his looks of discomfort when the conversation veered in that direction, she'd have laughed without regret. As it stood, at least Amaryllis now had a better understanding of things. It would now be a matter of allowing her to process the information.

He would've been a bit more panicked at the sight of Peyton sitting with the rest of the gang if his brain weren't immediately distracted as he asked, "Wait, where's Tomi?" With James in town, he felt his stomach drop at her not being where he left her.

KEAGAN: "She's with Sky and the dogs." Keagan nodded towards that direction as she kept her eyes on the Bean's girlfriend. She didn't know this girl as well as the others, but she could easily tell that she was as much part of the group as the rest of the scoobies.

From what she could tell, Amaryllis was still processing everything that was said between them and Keagan wasn't one to push, especially a young woman who barely knew her beyond what the other scoobs had told her. With that being said, the new Deputy slid out of the booth and walked towards her own generation of Scoobies, figured that the kids would want a moment to themselves.

ARTEMIS: Artie was the first one to speak out of the bunch currently at the booths once the Deputy had taken her leave. "Sooooo....did you want me to get Kala to come pick up her package?"

PEYTON: "Oh.. Um.." She looked up at her sister who still haven't said anything, "Look, I can go if you like. Like Artie just ...sorta said, I could go back to Kala, though I think she was pretty relieved when she dropped me off here so I don't know if It's a good idea to bring her back. But anyways I can always leave if that's what you want, I mean, my parents are over there too, so .. I'll just.. yeah. I can just leave too." She rambled on, perhaps more than usual since she was feeling very anxious.

AMARYLLIS: sister just looked her without much change in her expression, and knew that everyone else seemed to be waiting on her answer as well. Eventually Amaryllis let out a sigh, "It's fine, you can stay." She folded her arms as she spoke calmly. As calm as she could at the very moment. Not liking the awkwardness any longer, the shifter just slipped into the booth opposite of her half-sister.

RIPLEY: The witch honestly couldn't have hoped for a better way for her night to have gone if she'd planned it. And she had no shame in admitting to herself that she was most certainly not above planning for such things... As it stood, however, there had been no need for possible underhandedness tonight. The Buzzfeed production team had reached out to her for their little ghost show, and upon learning Luke would also be involved, she'd been more than happy to play the part of the 'local academic expert' on the location.

As she entered the diner, her arm linked with the redhead's -of course-, she called out to the party goers, "Say hello to the 'ghoul certified' 'Best Ghost Hunters in the World'!" It wasn't hard to spot that the distraction was a welcome one, and honestly a little attention never hurt.

SKYLAR: She had mostly been sitting in comfortable silence, chatting now and then with Tomi by the time she heard the doors of the diner open again. She had already gotten the familiar scent of her aunt but she didn't expect that her professor would also be there - with their arms linked no less. Her eyes widened. "Uh." Her brain just malfunctioned on so many levels. She knew that the two of them had somehow become friends, but she did not expect them to be so close.

TOMI: Even if the diner bell wasn’t enough to get her attention -her anxiety spiking at the sound, and promptly easing back at the sight of Luke- the proclamation that was made in such an enticing accent would have certainly made her look. And look she did. “Holy shit,” she whispered as her hand smacked her friends arm, eyes still on the woman walking in with Luke. “Holy shit, holy shit dude. I thought you and Erin were exaggerating but your prof is fucking hawt.”

SKYLAR: Her eyes rolled, "Tomes, I freaking told you!" Her eyes widened as she darted them towards the professor as a way to say 'look at her!?'. "And she's my professor. I told you I was going to fail that class and it's not just because I completely suck at history. Tell me why did I pick this class? It's like I'm trying to lower my gpa." She sighed, "And it's like, they're clearly.. a lot closer than I thought they were. Luke is definitely going to know how I'm doing in class. No hiding from mom about it either." She groaned.

TOMI: Offered her friend sympathetic look before patting the top of her balloon suit like she would MJ’s head to soothe him. “I…will definitely be taking that History course myself though because my GPA can take a hit so long as I get to enjoy the sound of those lectures. Fuck! And Erin had one-on-one magic lessons? And somehow still chose you?” She made sure stick her tongue out at the redhead to make it obvious she was teasing.

Glancing back over at where the ‘ghost hunters’ were returning, she laughed a little. “I mean, Luke wouldn’t sell you out…she certainly hasn’t over what you’re hiding now so…As for being close…Well I guess only time will tell no? You may get a hot new step-aunt…”

SKYLAR: "Yeah.. she does." That's all she has to say about those one on one lessons. As confident as Skylar appeared, even she was surprised at times that Erin still picked her - not that she'd think her girlfriend would date someone solely for shallow reasons. Also, Erin was less of a mess in front or around the Professor. Skylar had already embarrassed herself a few times.

On the topic of a new aunt, the red head didn't know how to feel about that. Luke was basically her parent so if she were to date someone else, that'd be like getting another step parent?

ERIN:  was something she’d recognize anywhere, and as surpassing as it was to hear it now, once she spotted her Professor linked to Luke, it more or less made more sense. She did, however, excuse herself from the booth and to make her way -as inconspicuously as she could manage- over to where it looked like her sister wife was suffering from brain melting and her balloon was suddenly much too still for her liking. “Hey ladies,” she said she took a seat on the other side of Sky. “You alright there, Princess?”

SKYLAR: "Hm?" She looked up in time to see her girlfriend sit down next to her. Almost automatically, she rest her head on Erin's shoulder and looped her puffy arm around the other's. "Oh yeah, I'm fine." She kept her eyes on her professor and Luke together, trying to digest this information.

"I just didn't know Professor Wren was going to be involved with the shoot." And she didn't. She thought it was only Andy and Thyra who were going to join them in the background - not that people at Buzzfeed would know.

ERIN: and the human shared a look over the top of the wolf’s head, and after Tomi opted to go check in with Sean, Erin took the opportunity to prod a little further. Granted, that was easier said than done as Sky’s inflated head -the costume one- made it a bit hard to aim her sight.

“You sure that’s all? You seem less ‘surprised’ by our favorite professor and more, I don’t know, almost disappointed? You know you can tell me right? Promise not to tease…”

SKYLAR: "What? No, what?" She sat up so that she can probably look Erin in the eye. The question caught her by surprise. "Why would I be disappointed?" The smallest Scoobie shook her head as she denied it. She glanced over at the adults again, finding the scene sort of strange.

"I just .. never really see Luke date? Not saying that that was a date per se, but in general. She'd befriend the whole town by this point but I don't recall ever seeing her date. It's just.. new."

ERIN: She’d given her word she wouldn’t tease, and she would honor it…but a small grin did make its way onto her features nonetheless. “Oh baby,” she said, as she reached out to wrap an around her balloon’s shoulders(?). “First of all, as you very wisely pointed out, we don’t even know that ‘dating’ is what’s happening here. Second, it’s okay to feel a certain way when you’ve grown so used to having someone be such a major part of your life, and suddenly you’re faced with the possibility of having to share them. I went through the same thing when my mum met my mama. But I think you might be jumping the gun just a tiny bit.”

SKYLAR: Skylar leaned against the taller woman, listening to ever word Erin was saying. "Yeah. Yeah!" She shook her head, "You're right. They're not even-" She sighed before standing up, holding out a hand for her girlfriend to grab so she could pull the other up. "I think being trapped in this costume is just getting to me. I need some air... and I don't want to take it off here. Do you want to come with?" Sky was not going to think about whether or not her aunt was dating her professor. It probably was nothing and she was just overthinking it as Erin implied.

ERIN: "There's the little spitfire that lights up my days," she said with a small laugh before frowning and asking, "Aw, is my little Marshmallow Man getting a little toasty?" Even with the teasing, she reached out to the hand that was offered and stood. "I'd love nothing more than to get a chance to see that cute little hero-marked face of yours, without the possibility of your deputy mom chasing me about for lying by omission or whatever."

SKYLAR: "You try wearing this the whole night.. when you've already got a higher body temperature." She mumbled as she patted at her own costume. "....Can you help me check if I've healed by now? Dallas hits hard but I didn't think it'd take this long for it to heal even wolf's sped up healing.." She whispered, realizing that they were just talking about her lie in the open.

LUKE:  ‘shoot’ had gone incredibly according to plan. It helped to have had Ripley turn out to be the production’s ‘local expert’ as she was able to have an accomplice to help wrangle all the humans. Even when it seemed that things might take a turn, Andy had come in clutch and now everyone was in high ‘spirits’ (heh) as they rejoined the party.

She turned as she noticed a familiar Ghostbuster and her Balloon passing by. “Hey! If you’re headed outside just be careful. Snow’s been coming down pretty steady. Did I miss anything while I was gone?”

SKYLAR: "Uh." She froze when Luke stopped them along the way. "I think it's more like, what haven't you missed?" Skylar frowned as she tried to even recollect the events that happened tonight. "...Let's see.. You missed.. Braxton being an idiotic asshole. Oh! My mom's the new Chief Deputy! You gotta go congrats her, okay? Um... Oh."

Her mood slightly deflated from the next bit of news, "Mr. Oliver came by to drop something off for Tomi.. and then left right after that so that's good. Braxton probably realized he was an idiot so he left. The Dawsons came - You know, Amaryllis' bio mom.. THen it was Avery's turn to be the idiot. You should have SEEN Kala rip into Avery. But then Kala admitted that she considered us her friend so that's a bonus.." Her nose wrinkled to see if she missed any more. "Oh.. Tomi called me an overdramatic little shit. And this little shit will now spend some quality time with her girlfriend out there for a bit."

LUKE: If there was look that just screamed ‘I’m never leaving again’ it was certainly the one on Luke’s face as she took in everything her niece shared. “Okay, to be fair, Tomi’s not wrong and she’s been calling you that since she learned the words from Brax, who we all know is far more braincell deficient than I am, which puts him way down on the list so…” She paused long enough to take a breath before adding, “Yeah James tried to reach her at the cabin earlier but I didn’t let him in. I’m just glad she’s staying with us an- wait….did you say your mom’s the new Chief Deputy?”

Before anything else was even said she managed to unhook her arm from her friend so she could run up to the shorter woman and scoop her up and spin her around a few times. “Congratulations!” She exclaimed before setting her back down. “I bet Mini-me’s stoked! When do you start?”

KEAGAN: Keagan was in a the booth with Blake and the others when Luke came in, and she definitely heard and saw Ripley Wren make her entrance. It seemed that their ghost hunting was a success for both parties. The humans got what they wanted and Fallcrest's secret was still safe - moreorless.

She turned her attention back to the conversation and while she could sense Luke approaching, she did not expect her friend to just scoop her up with ease. Keagan held onto the ghostbuster's shoulders as they twirled, waiting until she was back on the ground again before she talked. "Thanks! And yeah, she was. Very stoked - so stoked that she wouldn't let me go for the longest time." She laughed, "I start Monday. She already gave me the badge too.. I guess I'm staying in town permanently after all."

LUKE: The smile on her face was reaching a point where it kind of hurt, so she could only imagine that Sky had been even more elated at the prospect of her mom finally staying in town. For good.

For a second -the briefest of seconds- Luke was overcome by the impulse to just close the distance between them, lean down and- But no. That had no place here or now. “Man, I swear I leave for a couple of hours and come back to so much. Jesus! I just can’t get over the fact that I’m gonna have my best friend back in town!”

KEAGAN: Her smile was probably as wide as she saw just how happy Luke was - as well as sky, about her staying in town forever now. "Yeah, I keep forgetting how crazy it gets here even within a few hours. I can see I've got a lot of work cut out for me if it's going to be like this everyday. And no," she raised a hand, "I don't want to know if it's like this everyday yet." The fact that she was already pulled into a council meeting upon her arrival was already very telling.

"To think I actually get to stay home now." Keagan sighed, "Feels surreal. But I'm glad I'm home."

RIPLEY: It would be remiss if she didn’t admit to there being a slight sting at having had her new favorite ‘playmate’ essentially rip herself free to run to someone else. But Ripley was a big girl, and she knew that fight was over before it even began. If Luke’s complete devotion to Sky wasn’t enough of a sign, the way she interacted with the girl’s mother over lunch the other day certainly sealed the deal.

Still, she couldn’t be blamed for poking a few buttons here and there. Who knew, maybe she’d push the right one to get things rolling for the duo… She approached them and said, “Congratulations, Deputy Benson! Nothing does a girl good like having her mother or a Luke good like her best friend. Speaking of, maybe you can settle a debate for us.” Ripley reached up and began running her hands through Luke’s hair. “I keep telling Luke she could totally rock an undercut, but she claims she doesn’t have the right head shape. What say you?”

SKYLAR: who thankfully hadn't taken off her costume yet because she forgot to grab her phone before heading outside, so when she walked back in, she did not expect to come back to a scene where her professor was just combing through her aunt's hair so casually. "Oh." She froze with wide-eyes before she remembered why she came back in. Now more thoughts ran through her mind, so much for not wanting to overthink it. Friends do that. She ran her hand plenty of times through the Bean's hair too - though it was usually after a cut since it always felt fun to rub the fuzz at the nape of his neck.

"Sorry.. I just left my phone here." She mumbled as she hurried over to her booth and grabbed it once she spotted it. Clutching it, she turned to hurry back out since Erin was still waiting outside.

ERIN: Following behind her tiny lady, Erin was a bit surprised herself at the sight of Dr. Wren being quite so, uh, personable with Luke. She wasn't a stranger to the fact that the older woman had no qualms about seeing boundaries and often coming right up to them directly -though never crossing them- so she was mainly taken a bit aback by the fact that apparently Luke's boundaries were more flexible than her own had been.

Spotting Skylar, she walked over and met her on the way back towards the door, warping an arm around her shoulders as she whispered, "It's alright, I'm sure she'll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have once everyone's home. Just breathe and let's get you out of this thing for a bit."

KEAGAN: It appeared that this professor took more people than her alone by surprise. Her own kid froze for whatever reason, only causing to observe closer when Erin guided the smaller girl out. The mother had taken a step back and folded her arms when Ripley, again, decided to make her presence known. The lack of energy coming from Skylar had her more concerned than the hair style choice of the day. Her eyes were focused on the balloon's back all the way until the two rounded the corner of the diner.

But it seemed that she was expected to give an answer, so as she reverted her attention back at the two adults before her, she let out a sigh, "If you want a undercut, get one. You've pulled off every look you've tried before anyways." With that, the Deputy slipped back into her seat.

LUKE: t Luke's attention was being pulled in several directions -torn, really- would be an understatement. There was her niece and how she had very clearly been put off as she walked back outside. There was her best friend who seemed almost to be dismissing her suddenly. And there was her new friend, who she realized she'd already kind of left by the wayside once before, and didn't want to be rude to again.

But her priorities had been clear for years now, and there would always be a number one. "Thank you, ladies. Very flattered, but I think I'm going to go be obnoxious and mess with a balloon," she said with a half laugh.

She was already out the diner door and looking for the trail in the snow before any responses could be made. Turning the corner to one side, she caught sight of the pair. "Hope I'm not interrupting, but I figured out here would be a good place to take a peek and see your face is doing," she offered.

SKYLAR: When the two rounded the corner, Sky turned around with her back against Erin, "Can you help me with the zipper?" She asked softly, waiting patiently in til she was free to get out of the costume entirely. And for everyone's sake, the wolf was not in the nude. The girl was in a tank and leggings. Though the temperature was low enough for snow, she had her wolf nature to thank. "Are you cold?" She asked the witch before wrapping her arms around the taller woman's waist, hoping that she could provide a bit of her warmth for the other. "I forgot it was cold.. I wouldn't have asked for you tocome outside with me. Maybe you should head back in. Where there's a heating system." She chuckled softly, though it was cut abruptly when she heard footsteps rounding the corner.

"Aunt Luke." She was surprised, "I thought you were still talking with mom.. and Dr. Wren." Sky asked from her position, unwilling to part from Erin at the moment. "My face is healing...Ish. No one said that bring punched by a half demon would make the bruises last longer than they normally would.... How does it look?"

LUKE: Luke may be oblivious to a lot of things, but she wasn't entirely stupid. She just enjoyed choosing when to use her brain. Like now. Of course, it wouldn't take a genius to tell that, although it may not have started off that way, her niece was currently now using her girlfriend as a human shield of sorts between them. She hummed in response and said, "Yes, well your mom decided she wanted to go back to her previous conversation -which is fair, I did kind of interrupt that- and Ripley knows by now that if you're within a ten foot radius, I'm probably going to find something to mess with you about."

Taking note of the outfit the poor witch had found herself in -in no small part due to Luke's own doing- and the fact she had no real coat, she suggested the girl go back inside and play lookout for them while Luke took a closer look at Sky's face. "Yeah about that, everyone knows that taking a hit from a supernatural will always leave more of a mark even if you do have faster healing. One of magic's lovely loopholes," she explained, gently turning the teenagers face from side to side as she bent at the waist to be at eye-level. "It still looks pretty gnarly, but the bruising has entered the greenish-yellow phase so they'll be gone in a day or so."

Dropping her hands to her knees but staying in her current position she locked eyes with her niece and just point-blank asked, "What happened in there? You know without out a doubt that I'll always do everything I can to fix things, but I can't fix something I'm not aware is broken...ya know..."

SKYLAR: r Benson had a guess that maybe her mom wasn't so pleased with that scene either. Just maybe. However, Skylar just let a shrug before she quickly gave Erin a kiss before letting her go back in, leaving her alone with her aunt. "I think no one would mind if you joined in on that conversation." She snorted softly at that excuse.

"Yeah but I thought they would heal all the same, it's like if we accidentally break our arms - it still heals at a reasonable time. Like did Dallas have magic or something because this bruise is taking its time." She hiss softly when she brushed lightly against it. "Are you sure..?" She wasn't going to be able to hide this forever and she really didn't want her mom to find out. Tonight, she had the excuse of having a costume but what if her mom wanted to hang out this week?

The wolf grew quiet when her aunt decided to finally address the elephant in the room. She kept her gaze as she wondered if Luke really didn't know what happened. "... Are you dating my professor?"

LUKE: She made a face as if to ask 'oh you think?' before dropping the following fact: "You're mom turned her back to me in the process, as did you on your deliberate way to get your phone. I may not be a werewolf myself, but I was raised in a pack full of them..."

Luke chuckled at the dramatics, but still kept her tone reassuring. "It's only been two days and everything has healed to a point that it would take a human at least a few weeks, I think your mojo's still doing it's thing. Also, Dallas is a half-demon, so yes, there's magic there. She may have unintentionally used it as a fear reaction. Regardless, if you plan to see your mom in the next few days, I'd ask Erin to do your makeup," she grinned.

The grin was completely replaced by a look that was equal parts disbelief and concern. "What? Of course not, Mini-me! First off, if I were to be dating anyone you would be the first person to know -maybe even before the person I'd be dating- and second, I would never do anything that carried the possibility of having a negative impact on your life, you know that. Ripley and I are just friends. Granted, I'm sure you've been made more than aware that she's far more friendly than say Hunter, but it's still friends nonetheless." There were also other reasons that was a preposterous idea, but those were best kept to herself.

SKYLAR: She shrugged, not denying nor confirming that she had make her way to her phone and back without any plans for anything else along the way. And yes, it did appear her mom was also not too pleased. "You could still join in. It's not like mom's ever been mad at you for long."

Just thinking about her mom finding out the fight she had, Sky just shuddered. "I don't want her to find out. As much as I trust in Erin's make-up skills, I really think mom will know something's up. She's bound to know. When have we ever tried to keep something a secret that it turns out, she didn't already know about?" Still, she didn't regret punching Dallas. She wasn't going to lie. Part of the anger from not being able to fight James Oliver might have redirect into her war path to Dallas.

Skylar listened to every word Luke was telling her, somewhat relieved to hear that they weren't dating like she assumed. The niece slipped her arms around her aunt's waist, giving her a tight hug. Her mood was already lightening up from the news. "Okay." She mumbled into the other. "I'm really going to be the first one to know if you're dating?"

LUKE: At the comment, all Luke could do was chuckle. Oh if this kid only knew half the things that had happened prior to her birth... Oh boy, that was a conversation she would gladly put off until her dying day if it meant the kid stayed blissfully unaware of complicated drama.

"I'm going to level with you, the odds are that she already knows something is up, but she's opted not to really push since you seem to be able to still get around fairly well. Try the makeup, if she asks, come clean on the first try and make sure there's at least one witness around just to be safe," she teased. Luke knew that after so much time apart, the last Keagan would do would make a big fuss over kids being dumb kids...as in Skylar. What Dallas did...that would have much bigger implications for them.

She welcomed the hug like she had so many before, and yet still it never lost its ability to warm her entire heart -and not just because wolves were walking furnaces. Reciprocating the embrace with ease, she said, "Of course you are! Who else am I going to tell if you stole my dog?"

SKYLAR: "Okay.." She mumbled, obviously not wanting to come clean at all so she's just hoping her mom will never ask. Even now she still believed that she did it for the right reasons. Dallas hurt Tomi, and was moreorless sided with the Scions' views. "What are the chances that she'd be chill about it because.. I won the fight and Kala didn't need to step in. I think that itself is an achievement." She was procrastinating.

Skylar was going to take that as a promise, "I didn't take your dog. MJ gladly came with, however, that dog will probably bunk with you tonight... He's about to be Erin's favourite and I want my girlfriend back tonight."

She pulled back just enough with her arms still hooked around her aunt's waist, "Should we head back in? Isn't it kinda cold for you?"

LUKE: She closed one eye and scrunched up her face as if she were trying to work out some complicated equation. "Yeah I don't think those would be the only two things she considers, you know, like Erin and I did. But, I'm sure she'll take it into consideration when determining what punishment she may decide to inflict. On the plus-side, you can rest assured she won't stick you in a balloon suit in public," she grinned.

"Oh I see, you think that just because you're all up for dumping MJ on me to get some girlfriend time, I would do the same to you. For shame Skylar Anne Benson," she said shortly before grinning again and saying, "I'm pretty sure Tomi will appreciate nothing more than having some MJ love."

Luke glanced down at her niece and said, "It wasn't...until you said something." She turned around and squatted down a bit, "Come on, hop on then. I'll use you as my personal 'Ripley Deterrent' and provide a shield in case your mom decides to call you out on the costume."

SKYLAR: Her shoulders sagged in resignation. It was pretty much set in stone that she was going to be at least grounded once Keagan decided to stop playing along. “I- that’s not … If you put it like that..” She sulked, “I didn’t kick him out of bed though! I learned my lessons from last time. Remember? When he wouldn’t even cuddle with me…. And he spent the past couple of nights with us in bed. All the cuddles.”

The shorter girl zipped up her balloon, as well as she could by herself, and hopped onto Aunt Luke’s back, wrapping her arms around tight enough so that she’s not choking the woman. “Aunt Luke.” She spoke softly against her ear, “Do you really not like Dr. Wren that way? Like.. are you just saying you don’t want to date her because of my reaction?”

LUKE: was entirely involuntary. The memory of a tiny redhead sulking around, chasing after a dog that kept showing her his backside or just straight up walking away form her was just too darn funny in hindsight. "He takes after you and your mother in temperament. How does that work? Hell if I know."

Once she was sure the girl had a secure grip, she stood back up, hooking her own forearms under the balloon legs as secure as she could manage, before beginning to make their way back. The question made her chuckle, because of course this wasn't something Sky would easily let go of. A dog with a bone, if you will. "You're mature enough to obviously know that as family, there are some decisions that we will always have to take each other into consideration for," she began, "But I give you my absolute word, that your hot professor does not own my heart, alright? You're in the clear."

SKYLAR: "I don't hold that much of a grudge... As in, I don't particularly a bribe to forgive someone. MJ only talked to me because I gave him his favourite food for his dinner. Talk about boujee, that dog had such a luxurious dinner that night." She chuckled softly, resting her head against Luke's shoulder.

Sky let out a hum, acknowledging the answer and fully trusting it to be the truth. Luke had never lied to her before so she didn't see why she would start now. "...She's like a triple threat. She's smart, hot, and has an accent." The niece was only saying that since they were literal facts, and not as a means to see if Luke was going to change her mind or something.  "That's like.. not fair."

LUKE: “Heh,” she scoffed. “You might not take bribes now but have some old home videos that could prove MJ isn’t the only one who can get boujee about their meals.” Granted, with how many pictures and home movies she had of the kid, finding the specific one she was referring to might take a while.

“You do realize you just described your girlfriend right? Like, as you hang here stating how unfair it is, you know you lucked out right?” Of course, Luke would always feel that Erin had lucked out with her niece, but the last thing this balloon needed was an inflated ego. Especially when they barely managed to get through the door without knocking the bell down.

SKYLAR: "I don't know what you're talking about." She denied before her smile softened at the thought of her girlfriend. "Erin is more than a triple threat." She beamed, clearly proud of the woman that was her girlfriend. "I don't know how I managed to get so lucky." While she could act narcissistic at times, Skylar genuinely couldn't believe Erin chose her; she definitely felt very lucky that she did. "She's amazing, isn't she?"

When they finally got into the diner, the wolf started wiggled around a bit so she could be let down. The moment she touched the floor, the balloon darted over to her girlfriend.

LUKE: “Sure you don’t,” Luke replied with a roll of her eyes. Granted, it was hard to be too upset with her niece when she got all lovesick at the topic of her girlfriend. “Finding someone like that is pretty special,” she agreed. “Be sure to always find ways to let her know how special is to you, and if she’s the right person for you? You’ll find she’ll always do the same.”

As the balloon waddled off, Luke figured the kid probably just thought it hilarious that her spinster of an aunt was giving love advice. She chuckled to herself before heading back over to the other ‘grown ups’. “Does anyone have any food?”

HARTLEY: "You're back! Well, I mean you were already back but like you stepped out again but you know, you're back again!" Hartley smiled, "How was the ghost hunting? Hunter told us that it went pretty well! And got some evidence too so that's good right? But like you guys were doing it in the snow, must be really cold?"

LUKE: Out of all her friends, Hartley was actually not the most talkative. Which was saying quite a lot. And she clearly used her brain more often than a few, which Luke figured she had to if she was a teacher.

Smiling at the blonde she said, “Oh it went better than expect, that’s for sure. There’s going to be quite a lot of material to sort through in post, but I think overall we did well.” Luke groaned and said, “Why is everyone reminding me it’s cold? Also, no one answered my plea for food.”

KEAGAN: Upon hearing her little complaint, Keagan slid a plate that was still pretty full until it was in front of the younger woman. "Here, saved you a plate." The deputy then just went back to her drink, sipping slowly at it. A part of her wondered what happened between Sky and Luke but decided in the endv that it didn't quite matter since both of them came back with smiles on their faces. Hell, Luke even gave her kid a piggyback. All is well again.

BLAKE: redhead just watched as the younger one mumbled out a meek thanks and then proceeded to take the plate to the next booth over … and not eat. This was far from the first time she’d witnessed such an exchange, but it still never seemed to be any less awkward.

“So are you actually planning on telling her why you’re miffed before or after the drive back up to the cabin? Because it’s a bit of a long one from here, and unless I managed to miss something major while I went to the bathroom the one time, I do believe she’s the one you’re going home with tonight,” she pointedly as she took a drink of her own beer.

KEAGAN: While her mood did darken a bit over the hour, Keagan found her attention going over to her best friend from time to time. Deep down, she knew it wasn't even Luke's fault. And she wasn't blind, Keagan was well aware of Luke's appeal but it really rubbed her the wrong way when Ripley latched onto the other and she was sure that professor knew what she was doing too.

She didn't answer her friend but she knew she had to talk with Luke before they leave this place. And so, with a sigh, she downed the rest of her drink before getting up and stood at where Luke was sitting at. "Walk with me?" Having this conversation in front of everyone, especially all the Scoobies was never a good idea.

LUKE: She wasn't surprised to come into the diner and not spot what had seemed to be the catalyst for things, and a text on her phone let her know that the not-so-good doctor had opted to excuse herself in lieu of her classes the next day. Which fair, but it still made Luke roll her eyes, because of course Ripley Wren would set pull the pin on a grenade and then bounce.

As she sat haphazardly picking at the food she'd been, well, practically tossed, Luke was still polite enough to try and keep a conversation going with Hart. Bless that golden retriever. The redhead had honestly expected that Keagan wouldn't address her again until it was time to leave, and even then only not to make things awkward for Tomi -who'd be leaving with them- so when she heard the voice call to her, she managed a "Yes ma'am. I mean, yes. Sure."

Excusing herself and sliding out of the booth to follow the wolf, she waited until they were out of earshot of the others before saying, "So, I'm pretty sure I know what it was that upset you, solely because I know that it upset Sky as well. However, where I know why it upset Mini-me, I can't figure out the 'why' of it for you and it's honestly kicking my metaphorical ass because if I can't figure it, I can't fix it...ya know?"

KEAGAN:  completely surprised, Keagan didn't expect Luke to start the conversation the moment they were far enough from the others. The mother wolf was in her natural stance, where her hands were on her hip but then she realized that it looked like she was interrogating the other so she folded her arms instead.

"..Do you really not know why?" She was definitely procrastinating - or at least hoping that Luke would eventually figure it out. The woman was smarter than she made people to believe after all. However, at the same time, Keagan didn't like beating around the bush either. "Why.. would I be upset when another attractive woman is running their fingers through your hair like no big deal? Although, I guess I don't really have the right to be. People are free to flirt with whomever." Keagan had eyes after all - Dr. Ripley Wren was very attractive, apparently so attractive that had her kid running into walls.

LUKE: Between the hands on the hips and the crossing of the arms, it was already clear to Luke that this conversation was likely to go the same way many others had gone before now. At the question, she wanted to just reply in kind -matching the tinge 'tude and everything- with 'No. I don't know why, that's why I asked' but she knew it would get them nowhere real fast.

The more tense, and compact Keagan made herself, the more Luke found herself just dropping her shoulders -almost in defeat- and just letting her limbs hang loose as she took a deep breath and said, "I'm just going to start with the most obvious thing: Ripley is a little shit, but she's just a friend. The woman is Skylar's professor first and foremost, and I would never do anything that might risk her comfort and well-being. Which is exactly what I told Skylar herself."

She chuckled wryly at how she was receiving more questions meant for Luke to answer than actual answers from Keagan herself, but that wasn't new either. "It's kind of funny, you know, how you're standing there asking me leading and probing questions -ever the consummate professional- expecting me to somehow piece it all together....and all for what? So you can once again avoid having to actually say it? To admit something out loud? Maybe instead of asking why it pissed you off to have another woman play with my hair, I should be wondering why you refuse to acknowledge things and somehow still think it's fair to be made at me for not considering it or whatever." Her tone was that of someone who was literally just thinking out loud. There was no accusation, no remote trace of ire. Just confusion and some defeat.

Shaking her head she glanced over at the Scoobs and then back at Keagan and said, "I'm sorry. This is hardly the time or the place for this. Just- I'm sorry if I upset you. We should get back to the kids and their good time though."

KEAGAN: Just why did they think it was a good idea to do this when they were still inside the dinner, especially when they both knew how nosy the Scoobies are - every single generation of them. There were no room for doubt when it comes to their groups collectively tuning in onto any conversations that happened within proximity.

At least now she confirmed her guess about what Skylar was upset about. It was good to know that was resolved so easily - and it also warmed her heart to know that her daughter was Luke's priority ever since the kid was born. If there was anyone she could trust Skylar to, it was Luke.

That relief didn't last very long as Luke called Keagan out on her bullshit. Every word held the truth. The wolf never once verbally acknowledged it yet she had no idea why. Their night together resulted with Sky and thus never a decision she regretted. The only decision she ever regretted was marrying Ricky of all people.

Keagan glanced over her shoulders and as expected, there were a few eyes on them - perhaps the only few who look there way were those who could hear them. Unfortunately she did not want to postpone this for later because as Blake graciously reminded her earlier - they had to be in the same car ride later, and Tomi was going to be there in the backseat. And since she wasn't Braxton, the wolf gently took Luke by the hand and rounded the counter to go through the kitchen as a shortcut to the back alley, "Sorry Ray, don't mind us." She apologized as they went by.

Once they were in the alley, she let go and turned to face the other. Keagan gave herself a moment because she didn't want to start off by asking questions again, a habit she unfortunately picked up from work. "Luke. I'm not- I'm aware of why it pissed me off to see Ripley be flirty with you and I feel like you've always known this, but yes, I got jealous because I like you - and no, not in the 'we're friends' way. I like you as in I have feelings for you." She confessed.

LUKE: bout of silence that followed her suggestion of rejoining the kids, but she didn't dare make a move to head that way herself. Not when she knew that if Keagan was still seeing things through her 'angy' filter, the woman might take it as Luke trying to dip out of the conversation or something.

Of all the things her spider-web thinking led her to assume might be plausible possibilities for how this would proceed, getting dragged through the kitchen -in sight of everyone else, plus the staff- was not one of them. Honestly, if Keagan had been trying to keep the others from being nosy, this was like the complete opposite way of quelling their curiosity...and now Luke was wondering if Sky was left to think her mother and aunt were about to duke it out or something.

...actually, now that she thought about it, Luke herself wasn't entirely sure Keagan wasn't about to take her out at the knees as soon as they were out of sight from any witnesses. "Look, I'm sorry if what I said was out of line. I realize that you've only been back a few days and we haven't even been in the same state for like a few years, but ironically enough, even though I earn a living teaching people how to fight, I would definitely much rather we use our words," she rambled. Blue eyes could only stare down as her brain proceeded to attempt to work its way past the anxiety of the build-up, and to a point where it could actively process the very sudden and direct delivery of Keagan’s words. Let alone the words themselves. “But like,” she began slowly, opting to work through her thoughts out loud, “You can still like someone as a friend and still have feelings for them…right? Like, those aren’t really mutually exclusive things. Some of the best relationships are built on a foundation of friendship, like Sky and Erin. And before you get upset again, I’m definitely not ignoring the main point you were trying to make, I’m just unpacking your statement so that I can actually begin to process the part that’s at the crux of it. I swear I heard every word, my brain just needs a bit to shift gears from years of us doing this weird ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ dance, to having you just flat-out state it as a fact that you have feelings for me…especially when now I also have to consider how this might affect Skylar given that I don’t know if she ever caught on the fact her mother was as straight as s donut…” It wasn’t until she took a large breath in that she realized she’d rambled that all out at once and that maybe the lightheadedness was a little less ‘romance’ and little more ‘lack of oxygen’.

KEAGAN: If Keagan wasn't train to control her expression regardless of how she's feeling, she might look just as anxious as Luke did. The nervousness she felt the entire time Luke was processing her words - speaking out her thoughts as she worked her way through everything. A smile tugged her lips because the sight was endearing as much as it was concerning because the younger woman haven't really taken a breath.

Over the years, Keagan learned to never rush Luke in anything because her brain might literally implode. Like now, she watched with much concern as her friend rambled on. Not wanting to add onto that stress, she only nodded to confirm the things that were said and smiled when Luke reiterated that she wasn't being ignored, just merely working things out.

However, at the mention of her daughter, she had no idea if she was meant to answer that right now. Instead, she just held her hands out in case her ex sister in law faints. "...Whatever happens, you're going to be in Skylar's life." She wondered if the other was worried about if things don't work out as planned between them. Even if that did happen, Keagan would never take Skylar away from Luke, and vice versa.

+Cut back to interior of diner

ERIN: She didn’t need to have a clear visual of her girlfriend’s face to know that the second an interaction between her mother and aunt even remotely seemed to happen, the girl was probably straining her little wolf ears to listen in. It especially guaranteed that would be the case when it appeared that both women had moved to attempt some privacy. By this point though, it wasn’t just Skylar whose attention the pair had…

Erin would’ve likely let it go, if it weren’t for the fact that Skylar didn’t appear to have moved even a micrometer since both women had gone out through the kitchen. “Skylar, I really don’t think you’ve mastered the art of listening through two different sets of brick walls and a bustling kitchen. Even if you had, I think if they wanted you to be a part of the conversation you would have been invited….Also I think both of them would really appreciate if you don’t give yourself an aneurysm.”

SKYLAR: Honestly, Skylar had no idea what she was nervous about when she saw her mom and Luke getting up to talk. However, that nervousness and anxiety grew when the two of them left through the kitchen. Much like the rest of the gang, everyone was very curious to know what was the deal with the two of them. Sky was very curious considering she learned that her mom was as upset as she was just a moment ago.

"What do you think they're talking about?" The wolf gave up straining her ears to listen in. She was sure Ray was also purposely creating more noise than he normally would just so that no one in this diner could listen in. Probably knew her mom went through the kitchen on purpose. "Like.. we just came back from our talk... and now she goes with mom for another talk."

TOMI: no real desire to meddle, at least not in the typical sense. But Tomi was currently sharing a home with the two women, and there was also the entire ride back to said home that she had to play third-wheel to so... "Did you happen to catch anything before they headed out? Like, am I going to be stuck in the backseat with MJ while your mom and aunt try not to like kill each other or something? Because I don't know how well I can manage to survive jumping out of moving vehicle if that happens?....Or I'm just being dramatic. Like, maybe Aunty K just wants a piggyback too? It did look like fun."

AVERY: "Do you really think Mama Benson really just pulled Luke out to the back to fight? I mean they both know how to fight, yeah, but dayum. Also, T, before they left, Luke sorta called her out on something - something about avoiding to admit it.. whatever it is.." She glanced over to Skylar, "Now that is what I'm curious about." She snickered, "Like your mom only have been back in town for like a few days and already there's drama." She turned back to Tomi, "If anything happens, just toss MJ at Luke, maybe the fight will stop."

ARTEMIS: "Yeah, just toss the dog at the driver that ought solve the issue." Artie said flatly before pointedly looking at Avery. "Seriously, I know Col needed like a bulk of the braincells to be a doctor, but did he have leave none for the rest of you?" She turned to Skylar, "I'm sure they're fine. They've been sharing a living space for like a week after not being around each other for a few years, they're probably discussing dumb housemate stuff...Like K-miester not wanting to admit that her hair clogs the drain or whatever."

SKYLAR: "I think that they'll be fine..." She said even though she didn't sound confident about it. "I hope they're going to be fine." They were two of the most important people in her life and it'd devastate her if they fell out with each other. "See, this is seriously why I should really learn how to listen through brick walls and a kitchen." She bit her lip, clearly ignoring everything that Avery had said. "But mom looked pissed.. I don't know if that was a good sign at all."

+Cut back to exterior of diner

LUKE: It her a bit more than she thought it might to regain proper oxygenation. Each steadying breath that she took making a small vapor cloud as the warm air from her lungs hit the cold temperatures of their surroundings. When Keagan held out her hands -in what Luke figure was an attempt to be ready to catch her if she keeled over- the redhead just brought her own hands up to take the wolf’s in her own.

“I don’t really think my piece of this puzzle is going to be as impactful as yours,” she said with a small chuckle. “I mean, it’s been almost nineteen years since we even broached the subject, but honestly,” Luke sighed, as she brought Kegan’s hands up her chest and said, “I told you how I felt when I was sixteen, and then I made sure that my feelings were made very clear that night in Rochester. Nineteen seconds or nineteen years, it makes no difference for me. My heart chose you a long time ago and it’s stubborn ass hasn’t budged an inch since.” She shrugged, as if to say ‘it is what it is.’ Luke closed the distance between them and dropped her forehead to rest gently on Kegan’s. “You’re offering me the one thing I’ve wanted for so long, it’s become second nature. Like, I legit don’t know who I would be if I suddenly woke up didn’t have that little ache that reminds me you’re not mine, and I want nothing more than to be truly selfish for the first time in my life and just take it and run with it and have you….but I can’t. Because things are, as has become the norm for you and me, complicated. Skylar has no idea about the past between us, and honestly the one thing that made it remotely okay that we never bothered addressing the fucking elephant in the room was the fact that I knew it was best for her if she didn’t have to deal with the idea that her aunt and mom once-“ She stopped, and sighed again. “I really, really, want to be selfish, Cal…but not at the expense of the one thing that’s kept me sane for so long. Not at the risk of hurting the most important thing in my life.”

KEAGAN: Over all these years, it had been clear to Keagan just how the younger woman felt about her. And she was right, they hadn't even addressed since that day either which she always felt was unfair to her friend. And to think that this was also the person who took it upon herself to help raise Skylar. She really couldn't ask for anyone better than Luke - not that the person in question even knows that Skylar was literally her daughter albeit all those years of people saying how similar the two were.

Especially when Luke said that she'd wake up with a reminder that Keagan wasn't hers, the wolf had no idea what to say to that because all she felt was guilt. Part of why she never said anything was also because Keagan was barely in town as it was. She was already constantly disappointing her daughter (and possibly Luke as well) for being away so often, she didn't want to hold Luke back.

And as per usual, Luke had a point, Skylar didn't know a lot about them and it wasn't fair if they sprung something like a relationship on her like that. "Are we going to tell her? Because there's not really an easy way to explain that won't blow her mind."

LUKE: Luke had to pull away slightly as to not actually laugh in Kegan’s face, but to her credit, it was a very light laugh to begin with. “Okay, so just in case it wasn’t clear: I love you, Keagan. I really, truly, deeply, madly, just do. I also, by extension, love that you’re always looking for the most, uh, efficient? way to do things, but some corners just can’t be cut.”

She brought there still entwined hands up and placed featherlight kisses over each of Keagan’s ten individual knuckles, before offering a soft smile and saying, “Yes, obviously we’re going to tell her. Regardless of what happens between us going forward, eventually we were always going to have to. But, we’re also going to want to pick our moment. I don’t think now would be the most advisable, just because it would obvious to the other kids that we told her something and then that would just make it to where they probably pestered her for information and-“ Luke stopped realizing she wasn’t breathing again. “Anyway, we’ll figure it out. We always do.”

KEAGAN: "Well, I'm not saying that we should cut any corners... but maybe like.. a little trim?" She laughed before nodding, "Okay, okay. I don't want to give our kid an aneurysm anyways and with the night she had tonight, I think any news would just take her out."

Her heart just warmed at the sight of Luke being so delicate with her. "I don't think there's ever going to be the 'perfect' moment - we're in Fallcrest and even if I haven't been in town for that long at a time, I am very aware of the events that goes down here at the most inconvenient times." She sighed, looking down at their joined hands. A small smile just tugged at her lips because there was still hope, because nineteen years later, she still wasn't too late - bless all that is Luke who still somehow loved her the very same as she did all those years ago.

"Speaking of which, I think we should head back, those kids must be aching to know what happened - or not happened."

+Cut back to interior of diner

RICKY: It was often said that bad news traveled, and though the fact that Old Man Grey was found out to be a peddle of sorts and was no on the lam could very well be considered ‘bad news’ by a lot of folks in town, it most certainly did not register as such for Richard Benson. If anything, it was the best news that he could have ever received, because obviously the guy wasn’t about to be stupid enough to sell out his former clients and with him gone Jimmy boy had no reason to come after him so…

The diner bell dinged, but Ricky wasn’t one to allow his arrivals to be announced for him when he could very well do it himself. “He-hey! I heard you guys were having a party but I’ve got to say, renting out the whole diner is a nice touch. Now under which one of these ghoulish faces can I find that of my own kiddo?”

SKYLAR: As if the last couple of minutes weren't stressful enough already for the girl, she perked up when she heard the diner bell ringed - only to have her mood plummet further than it ever did today. Because instead of her mom and aunt coming back in, it was the last person she thought she'd see in Fallcrest again. "...What is he doing here?" She sworn her dad didn't want to come back to Fallcrest and she definitely didn't want to see him either because of the stunt he pulled. The daughter was still furious with him for pulling her away from her home. Why was he even here and asking around for her?

ERIN: It didn't take a full second for her to sense the difference in Sky, even through the mass that was her costume. Without a thought for hesitation, she tightened the hold she had over the girl's waist. Of course, being fully aware she'd be no match for the wolf's strength if ti came down to it, it was more meant to be a show of reassurance and a means to ground her in the moment. "You don't have to say anything, love," she whispered, "If he wants to find you, he can put in the effort or leave."

KEAGAN: As they agreed that they shouldn't keep the kids from wondering - or keep them from badgering Sky about it, Keagan led them back through the kitchen, saying a short thanks and apology to Ray again for bothering him.

She was genuinely smiling with joy after their conversation but when she saw what - or in this case, who - was waiting for her in the middle of that diner, the speed it took for that smile to drop. Whatever happy mood she was in was now overtaken by the anger of seeing this asshole's face. If they weren't in a diner in front of everyone, Keagan would have walked right up to Ricky and throw a punch into his face.

The mother stormed up to her ex-husband, "What the hell are you doing here?" She gritted through her teeth. "Weren't' you supposed to stay away from here?"

RICKY: When there was no immediate answer to his question -and it became obvious that he was as usual being looked as the odd on out by the other 'Scoobs'- he decided to just take in stride. "Aw come on, I know you're a little upset with me for not being around, but you wouldn't make me resort to having to sniff you out now, would you?" Ricky was really hoping Sky wouldn't because in contrast to the confidence of his words, he really didn't think he'd be able to pick her scent out....in his defense it was a crowded diner and it had been a while since he last saw her.

Luck was a lady tonight, it would seem, as instead of a response he was just greeted by the best sight he could think of as Keagan herself made her way up to him. The fact she was being followed by sister from the kitchen didn't even really register. "Keagan! Oh what luck to have both my girls waiting for my return in town! Oh, me and Jimmy boy have squared away our differences so I'm free to come and go. Oooh! Are you here so we can spend the holidays as a family? You, me, our daughter....won't it be wonderful! I'm sure she's so happy to see you too....well, probably happier than seeing me, but that's daddy-daughter talk that will definitely be happening." Ricky leaned in a bit and said, "In the meantime, how about a little 'reunion kiss' for old time's sake and as a show of parental solidarity?"

KEAGAN: It wouldn't be beneficial for anyone except Ricky, maybe, if she made a scene out of this - of course, that was also not exactly in her character. And as much as she wanted to punch him in the face multiple times for various reasons, she really should do so as the new Chief Deputy.

To keep Ricky from finding her daughter, because it was clear that he couldn't pick her out from the crowd, Keagan kept her focus on him. Besides, she was sure that everyone else didn't say anything because they were just as protective over the smallest Scoob.

"Ricky, I think it'd be wiser for you to leave." She spoke in a very low voice. As pissed as she was, her tone was still very calm - to some extent. One wouldn't even think she was threatening the other. "Do I need to remind you that you have upped and left this town without notifying me? I'm letting you leave on your own two feet right now." Now this was very much a threat.

RICKY: He was smart enough to take a healthy step back, realizing that his tactic was less pressuring the woman into giving him said kiss, and now was more so putting him within arm's reach of her. "I do love and miss that fiery temper of yours, Kea-kea. If you're not careful, you'll have me back on one knee right in front of all our friends," he chuckled.

The laugh died on his lips and the amiable, 'goofball' look completely faded from his features at her sudden threat. "Oh...I see you've been listening to my little sister," he said, speaking loudly now so as to draw attention to his words. He may not know which one of these kids was Skylar -exactly- but he was sure she was one of them, and she would hear him.

"You know, Keagan, as a law enforcement...uh, person, you really should use more discerning thinking. You can't just take everything that woman says at face value. Would you believe that she effectively brainwashed our daughter against me and then just absconded with her back to Fallcrest? I was totally going to tell you about us moving to Seattle as soon as I was actually able to get a hold of you, you know, being so busy as you were. But then one day I woke up, only to find that she'd brought our daughter back here. Delivering her right  into harm's way. Better be glad I don't press charges for kidnapping." He took a breath, glanced at said sister and then back at Keagan. "She may seem like a fun loving, selfless, doofus, but that woman is far smarter and more dangerous than anyone knows," he bellowed

KEAGAN: The growl that was kept at bay in her throat as every word from this man just boiled her blood. How the hell did she decided it was a good idea to marry him? Because all she was was regretting the decision over and over again.

The only way Ricky was going to be on his knee is if she knocked out the other one herself.  "No. I do not believe." The audacity of this man trying to make himself look like the good guy when everyone roughly knew why he ran off in the first place. Not only that, everyone also knew what sort of person Luke was so the fact that he was acting like he did everyone a favour when Luke and Keagan should've been the one to press charges against *him *for kidnapping their daughter.

"Richard. I'm going to repeat myself once more." She jabbed a finger at his chest. "I don't know what kind of game you're trying to play here and frankly I do not care. But if you do not remove yourself from this property within the next second, I will remove you myself." She jabbed him again with a bit more force as she took a step closer, "You knew what our deal was whenever I was out of town. You do not get to disappear on me with my daughter." Jab. "The only idiot I know right now is you, you do not get to come here and start pinning your sister as the villain when you know you fucked up."

Her own self-restraint surprised herself when she hadn't punched the man herself already, that she was still choosing words over her fists.

LUKE: She saw Ricky just a fraction of a second before Keagan had, but she doubted that even made a real difference in the long run. If the mother wolf had made her mind up to destroy the man limb-from-limb, there would have been little Luke could do to stop her, only maybe take Sky out back so she didn't have to witness that.

As it stood, there had been no reason to do that as the new Chief Deputy was showing an immense amount of restraint. Luke, for her part, was used to the things her brother often said and was more focused on keep herself physically between him and sky. Though, she had the sense to stop at the second Scoobies' booth as to not draw attention to the girl. She obviously wasn't jumping at the bit to be picked out by her father. When it was obvious that Ricky was making no move to leave, and when she was certain that the others had more or less surrounded her little balloon, Luke made her way up and past Keagan. “Excuse me Deputy, my brother just seems to have a severe case of ‘head up his own ass’ but, no need to worry. I’ve helped before and I’ll be sure to take care of it again.” She turned to Ricky, swiftly placed his arm in an a back hammer lock and walked him the few feet outside the diner and around to the parking lot.

When she came back alone she simply smiled and said, “I gave him some cash to get a room at the Radcliffe and sleep it off.” There was no specifying what it was as she instead went back to Sky. “You alright, Mini-me?”

SKYLAR: The whole time Keagan was confronting Ricky, the youngest Benson was trying her best not to be noticed - which was apparently wasn't too hard because her dad couldn't even find her amongst the crowd - did he even try to use his senses? Or by logic? She was sitting with her friends after all.

This might be the quietest she has been tonight and the relief she felt when Luke escorted him off the premise. She didn't even realize how small she made herself until Luke came back to check her on. In the back, she could briefly see her mother's eyes flickering between the golden hues and her normal colour before Keagan completely turned away to head to the counter instead - probably because she knew Luke was handling her. "Yeah." She nodded, still leaning into her girlfriend, "He's not supposed to be here, Aunt Luke.." She mumbled.

LUKE: To say the sight broker her heart would be an understatement. Skylar was a feisty young woman who had gone so far as to pick a fight her best friend’s demon ex. To see her curled into her own girlfriend’s side as a result of the sight of her own father, it only highlighted how small she was and it almost made Luke want to chase after her brother- But that would solve nothing.

Instead she nodded and said, “I know, Little One.” She crouched down and reached out across the booth’s table to latch onto the hands she knew she’d find within the balloon and gave them a resolute squeeze. “But him being here changes nothing. I gave you my word that he would never affect your life in any major way again, I will do anything I have to to ensure that. I’m nothing if not a woman of my word, and I know you know that.” She sighed and offered a small smile that she then sent Tomi and Erin’s way. “Well, I would say that tonight has now officially been more eventful than any of us planned for. What say the sister wives we all head back to the cabin tonight? I know you’re not looking forward to your mom seeing you outside the balloon, but something tells me tonight would be the perfect time to just bite that bullet,” she grinned.

KEAGAN: To her credit, it didn't take her long to calm down - especially when she heard how small Skylar sounded. At her voice, she made her way back to the booth and stood behind Luke, nodding at everything she was saying. "It goes without saying that neither of us are going to let him affect you." Her voice as much softer than it was a moment ago.

When the girl nodded to the plan, Keagan couldn't help but raise an eyebrow about the little note about not wanting her to see what the balloon is hiding. However, this was not the time nor place to address that right now so she just waved for the kid to slide out of the booth and caught her in a side hug once she did come out of it. "Come on, baby girl." She kissed Sky's temple - at least where she believed was the temple -  as she slowly walked them out of the diner, giving quick farewells to whoever was still there.

LUKE: Standing back up and then off to the side as her niece scooted and waddled her way to her mother, Luke simply tried her best not to laugh. It was definitely not the right time. But she also was never really all that great at letting the mood stay too heavy, so as she washed the mother-daughter duo just make their own way out of the diner, she turned to either side of her and offered her arms. “Well, ladies, it seems you’ll just have to make do with me. Lucky for you, I have two arms and am also the one with the keys so…”

A few farewells later -and slightly quieter ride than she was comfortable with later- they were making their way up the drive to the cabin. As the driveway came to its end, and the cabin came into the beams of the headlights, the girls were slowly but surely getting louder as they talked. Luke couldn’t even be bothered with the garage, instead just parking right up next to the front stairs. If she could feasibly drive her girls all directly into the safety of the living room, she would have.

+Cut back to interior of diner

ALEJA: It seems that there was an endless supply of surprises happening today and the faerie wondered if it was just best to call it a night - especially since a few pairs and groups had already retreated by now. “Whoever said Fallcrest is dull clearly never attended a gathering...” She let out a sigh, “I can’t even tell if this party was a hit or not with all the surprise guests we’ve had.”

BLAKE: Blake just dropped her head on her girlfriend’s shoulder, eyes turned up to look at her. “Oh the only people that accuse of this town of being dull are the passing tourists,” she half-slurred. Her brow then furrowed and she pursed her lips as she concentrated on the matter. “Considering there were no fatalities, I’m going to mark this one for the ‘win’ column.”

ALEJA: She had her arm around her moderately drunk girlfriend, feeling quite amused to how snuggly the other was getting as the night went on. "I don't know if it's really considered as no fatalities... Like.. there were a lot of emotional casualties from what I saw." She kissed the crown of her girlfriend, "I hope everyone had a nice time.. despite everything. Shall we head back ourselves? It looks like Ray's about to come out and kick us out - with love."

BLAKE: Bleary eyes glanced down at her watch at the question before easing her way to a -precarious- standing position. “Oh, yup. We should start evacuating the premises. I think we’ve got like twenty minutes left on our time, which is already cutting it close.”

I’m a bid to be responsible, she handed her girlfriend the keys and as they made their way back out to the car, she said, “I think it’ll be wise if I sleep on the couch tonight. You know what they say, ‘whiskey makes me frisky, but gin makes me sin’,” she laughed before adding, “And I had both…”

ALEJA: "Come on, babe." She managed to smothered the laugh she would have let out when she saw Blake stand up from the booth. With her girlfriend's keys, she unlocked the doors and helped Blake settle in before she rounded over to the driver's side because she really hoped her girlfriend wouldn't just topple over. "Ah.. Whiskey makes you frisky. That explains why your hand had been on my back underneath my shirt throughout the night."

The faerie chuckled as she drove them back towards their home - which wasn't very far from the diner because it took them just a few minutes before she pulled into their own parking spot.

+This concludes the Haloween Pary at Ray's Diner thread for for Sunday, 10/31

[calmbeforeastorm]

Club corners

‘So, basically, you’re saying that you were the original sugar baby?’

Izzy decides it's time to take a night off. They end up in Pandemonium.

Three weeks after the defeat of Valentine, and the resumption of normal Institute activities, Izzy put her foot down while they were standing around a map in the ops centre, delegating patrols.

‘That’s it. We’re going out. Pick a night this week’

Four confused faces turned towards her.

‘What?’ Jace asked.

A smile was already beginning to tug at Clary’s face, but the two boys didn’t seem to get the message.

‘I said, we’re going out. Out, out. Alec can clear all our schedules one night this week. We deserve it’

Alec opened his mouth to voice his inevitable refusal, and Izzy rushed in to cut him off.

‘C’mon, big bro. We just helped win a war, for the Angel’s sake. Surely we can take one night off. I think we’ve earned it’

‘She’s right, Alec. It would be nice to all have a night out together. We can ask Simon and Maia too’

Clary joined her in the fight, and Izzy couldn’t help shooting a grin her way.

Jace was starting to nod his head, lips pursed – never one to turn down a night out – and so, with two down, one to go, Izzy turned all her persuasive powers on her brother.

‘Besides, I’ve been itching to go on a night out with Magnus since we met him. He definitely seems to know how to party’

Predictably, Alec seemed to brighten up at the thought of his boyfriend joining them. How sweet. Even after having practically moved in to the loft in Brooklyn, he still leapt on every chance he could to spend time in Magnus’ company.

He sighed.

‘Alright. I’ll mention it to him. What night do you want me to clear?’

  They ended up – surprise, surprise – in Pandemonium. After all, why pay to go anywhere else when someone in the group was dating the owner of one of the best clubs in town?

They had loitered in the queue for a while (Magnus had a client with him and said he would join them later if they went on ahead) because Alec shot down Izzy’s suggestion of going up to the bouncer and using Magnus’ name to get them in for free.

‘We can’t do that, Izzy! That’s embarrassing’

Of course, after fifteen mins – during which time, they advanced about five feet in the queue – Magnus himself swept by, still dressed fairly formally in dark jeans and an expensive-looking grey shirt, which he’d unbuttoned halfway down his chest and draped some necklaces over. His hair was streaked with glittery pink, and Izzy could practically sense Alec’s mouth watering.

He walked right by them – then strolled back, confusion on his face.

‘What are you doing in the queue?’

Alec blushed as they all turned to him.

They were pulled up and brought in past the barrier by Magnus himself, holding it up for them with a wink.

‘After you, my dears. You all look stunning, by the way’

Izzy nearly missed the whispered ‘Especially you, Alexander’ as he slid an arm around her brother’s waist. She deliberately did not think about where his hand slipped to.

 ___________________________________________________________________________

 After some dancing – Izzy managed to dance with everyone, including even her brother, who looked more and more at ease as the night went on – as well as a ridiculous amount of free drinks in the VIP section, they piled in together in a corner on some couches, sweaty and high on tequila shots and laughter. The music thumped around them, but somehow – undoubtedly thanks to some magic of Magnus’ – they were able to hear each other perfectly well.

Clary began regaling them all with the story of Simon’s first time in a club, when a very drunk girl had plastered herself all over him until Clary managed to pull him free (unfortunately not quickly enough to avoid the poor girl vomiting all over his band t-shirt).

The subject, as it usually does on drunken nights out in the heady atmosphere of a club, quickly turned to sex.

‘But what I’m saying is that you kind of, like, lost your virginity twice. In a way’ Maia managed to slur out.

Magnus looked at her quizzically. Or as quizzically as possible in low light and with what would be a lethal amount of alcohol in his system, if his was anyone other than Magnus Bane. He and Alec were squished in tightly together, one of Magnus’ legs draped over the Shadowhunter’s knee. Alec had a tight grip on it, as if he was afraid his boyfriend was going to slip to the floor without his support. Maybe he would.

‘You mean once with a guy, once with a girl?’

‘Yeah’

Magnus took a sip of his gin and tonic.

‘I wouldn’t look at it that way myself, but whatever. I guess’

He paused, thinking.

‘Didn’t sleep with another man until I was in my -must have been my early twenties, I guess. Had to be real clever about it, back then. Had to, you know. Really want it’

He huffed a laugh.

‘Who was he?’ Maia asked.

It seemed to take a lot of effort for Magnus to remember.

‘Eh. He was, uh. The father of a little boy I was tutoring in Dutch’

Izzy burst out laughing.

‘Magnus!’

He laughed again.

‘I know, I know. He must have been, god. Twice my age? He was nice, though. We kept it up for three or four months, then I left Madrid to travel around Spain. Never saw him again after that. We kept in touch, though. He’d send me money every now and again if I was low on it’

Clary suddenly laughed, loud and clear. Jace grinned dopily at her.

‘What?’

‘So, basically, you’re saying that you were the original sugar baby?’

Magnus paused, a strange look on his face, drink glass dangling from one hand and the other hand frozen in the gesture he’d been about to make.

The Shadowhunters – barring Izzy – looked baffled.

‘Original what?’ Alec wondered, and Magnus shushed him quickly.

‘Let’s move on, shall we?’

Izzy clutched on to Clary’s arm and buried her face in her shoulder as they dissolved into giggles.

  They staggered out into the fresh, cold air of Brooklyn at about four in the morning, all pleasantly drunk.

Simon and Maia said their goodbyes and wandered away, Simon’s arm slung over Maia’s shoulder.

Clary pulled Magnus down to give him a kiss on the cheek, then, to Alec’s evident surprise, did the same to him. Jace smiled at that, obviously happy to see his girlfriend and his Parabatai finally getting on, and Alec grinned back.

Izzy reached up to hug her brother just as he leaned down, and she gave him a tight squeeze before letting go. He’d had a good time. She was glad.

‘What time will you be in the Institute in the morning?’

Before Alec had a chance to answer, Magnus leaped in,

‘Not til at least noon, I’m afraid’

Izzy laughed, and turning to leave, she blew Magnus a kiss, rolling hers eyes fondly as he pretended to grab it.

‘Alright. No portalling! Walk home’

It was Alec’s time to roll his eyes.

‘Yes, Mom’

But he smiled at her.

‘Goodnight, Izzy’

She watched them set off into the night, wrapped up in each other, then turned around to catch up with Clary and Jace, a bounce in her step that hadn’t been in a long, long time.