#and she called me and asked me what he would like the most and i’m happy knowing

[cassandra-collin]

I have facial dysmorphia, and I’ve booked an appointment with a psychologist for it. I’m going to do what’s called EMDR therapy.

I don’t really like going to psychologists, but my facial dysmorphia was so severe that I started having suicid@l thoughts and would spend more than three hours a day just looking at myself in the mirror, doing nothing else with my days.

I know that one of my mom’s friends once told her I was beautiful, and the son of her friend also said I had no reason to feel insecure (in a positive way). I’ve been catcalled before, and I also heard a man say, "This girl is pretty," (in french) when he saw me, talking to his friends. Even when I went out yesterday, some men stared at me (I didn’t see them, it’s my mom who told me). But every time, I just tell myself, “They were probably talking about someone else,” “They were just looking at the road,” or “They were probably only looking at my body.” (I think men focus more on my body, like the man who asked me if I did dance.)

I think people don’t realize how hard this is, especially when you don’t receive much external validation outside of social media and a few men on the street. I feel like I’ve been heavily influenced by beauty standards, and I also think some of it might come from childhood trauma.

When I was little, an ex-best friend told me I was fat (there’s nothing wrong with being fat as long as there are no health issues related to it, but it was said as if it was something bad). In middle school, I constantly compared myself to other girls, telling myself they were always thinner and cuter than me. Now I wear an XXS, and I have no issues with my body—only with how I perceive my face.

I even realized that I was telling myself harmful things that were the exact same phrases some people said to me in the past, people who were really mean to me.

When a haircut doesn’t suit me (like the bangs I got recently, which I only posted once on my Tumblr before deleting it), or when my hair is just all over the place, I react much more negatively than someone who doesn’t have facial dysmorphia.

I also have a pretty androgynous face (and an androgynous voice as well), so that adds another layer to it.

And when I see a pretty girl who says she feels ugly (and you can tell she’s being sincere when she says it), and people comment under her video saying she’s just saying that to get compliments because, to them, a beautiful person can't be that insecure, it just annoys me.

Sometimes I find my face pretty and cute, but most of the time, I think it’s too big, too androgynous, too I don’t know… And the thing I notice the most is the expression lines on my face that have become a bit more pronounced (which you can't really see or don’t see at all in my photos because of the lighting, even if it's not done on purpose).

When I post pictures of myself online, I usually ask my mom if the photos look like me because I don’t really know what I look like and I don't want to come across as a "fake." It would make me feel guilty if they didn’t look like me. The only things I allow myself to modify on my face are my pimples and slightly my dark circles (it’s like using a little concealer).

After that, I edit my photos to make them more "aesthetic" (lighting). That’s it. If I don’t look like my photos, I delete them right away and don’t post them.

I also wear glasses, so I don’t really see my "real" face (except in videos and photos), but I plan to get contact lenses. I hope that when my bangs grow back, my facial dysmorphia will lessen as well (because I felt good or better with the haircut I had before, even though I still had facial dysmorphia).

I’m healing now, even though it’s tough, and I have a lot of trauma˖⁺‧₊˚ꨄ︎

(I’m writing all of this to share my experience with facial dysmorphia and to express how serious it can be. Writing about it also helps me calm down, even though I haven’t shared everything.)

Does anyone else look in the mirror long enough and examine your features to the point where you start to get physically nauseous? Just me? Ok

[evilmenenjoyer]

Punishment

Pairing: professor Hwang In-ho x student fem!Reader

Summary: You find a creative, albeit unconventional way to get out of the trouble you're in at university.

Word count: 3k

Warnings: sexual content (minors dni), age gap (legal, reader is implied to be in her early to mid 20s), spanking, corporal punishment, masochism, power dynamics, crying, unresolved sexual tension.

–––

You can tell something’s off the second you walk through the door, when your cheerful “Hello, Mr. Hwang!” is met with a short, courteous “good evening” from the professor.

It’s not rude. It’s not even particularly harsh. It just lacks the usual warmth you��ve come to expect from him, the tiny smile on his lips that always greets you.

Being called to see the strict Mr. Hwang In-ho after class usually meant bad news, leaving most students nervous about what they could’ve done wrong. But not you. You’ve lost count of how many times you stayed in this classroom for hours after class was over, discussing a book he had assigned for class or literature in general. Some days you’d help him grade tests and homework, when you noticed he had too much work on his back. And some days, the ones you cherished the most, you’d talk about things unrelated to class or literature – politics, your interests, your personal life. His personal life.

Saying you were smitten with him was the understatement of the century. You tried not to pay much attention to the crush you developed on him, hoping it would go away if you just ignored it for long enough, but it only seems to be getting stronger.

“You wanted to see me?” you ask, closing the door. It’s generally frowned upon for a student to be alone with a professor with the door closed, but Mr. Hwang never objects. The fact that he’s willing to bend the rules for you pleases you a little too much.

“Yes.” His tone is the same as before, not softening now that it’s just the two of you. He pinches the bridge of his nose, and you wonder what is it that’s got him in such a bad mood, if something happened in his life. “I have something to show you.”

He pulls out a piece of paper, setting it on his desk facing you. You approach, your footsteps slightly more hesitant than usual around him.

“Do you recognize this passage?” he asks, pointing to the highlighted paragraph.

You lean in to read it, an analysis of the similarities between classic English and South Korean literature. You recognize it immediately.

“I wrote it. That’s from my latest assignment.”

“Yes.” He’s still not looking at you, rummaging through a pile of papers. Did he not like the assignment? The thought alone upsets you. You worked so hard on it; not only for the sake of keeping your straight-As, but also to impress him. Maybe even more so to impress him. “How about this one?”

He sets another sheet of paper in front of you, one of the paragraphs highlighted in his same blue marker.

As you read it, your stomach immediately drops. It’s your paragraph, almost word-by-word, with a few differences that are too minor to even count.

“This is from Emily Jones’s paper. I believe the two of you are friends.”

You want to find Emily and strangle her. You told her to change stuff and not just copy from you. Did she really think someone like Mr. Hwang wouldn’t notice? That he’d just let it slide?

“I was the one who wrote the original,” you say. “I didn’t–”

“Oh, I know that. I’m very familiar with your writing style, and Ms. Jones isn’t nearly as gifted as you. I knew something was wrong the second I read it.”

You could play the victim, say Emily copied from you without your knowledge, but you know instantly it wouldn’t work, not with Mr. Hwang’s dark eyes right on you. Even when you’re not in emotional distress, the man can read you better than anyone else.

“I’m sorry.” You lower your gaze in shame. “Emily needed help, and I– she’s in the same exchange student program as I am, I know how much she needed the grade.”

“You could’ve helped her study, not let her copy off you.”

“There wasn’t a lot of time. She came to me last-minute.”

He sighs. “Well, I will have to fail both of you.”

“What?” It should be expected, but the words still sting. He knows how hard you work for your good grades. “But my essay was good.”

“It was great. Worthy of an A, if only you hadn’t helped another student with plagiarism. In fact, both of you should be reported for it.”

“Mr. Hwang, please.” Your eyes are practically begging him for mercy, the pitch of your voice getting ever so slightly higher as your desperation grows. “I can lose my scholarship and my spot at the exchange student program. Do you want me gone?”

You can see something flash across his eyes – regret, maybe, or perhaps that warmth you’ve been missing since you walked in here –, just for a split second before they’re back to normal, even more hardened than before.

“Cheating was your choice, not mine. You should’ve thought of the consequences.”

“What if– what if I wrote a new paper?” you bargain. “For half the grade. I can get it done in just a couple of days!”

“The paper is not the point. The point is how my most promising student would waste her talent to help a classmate cheat, and betray the trust I put in her.”

The praise doesn’t go unnoticed by you, but it fades away so quickly, like trying to hold on to smoke.

“It was a mistake. One that won’t happen again.”

“I’m very sorry, Ms. ____.”

You watch helplessly as he gathers the papers and organizes them back into a folder, the muscles of his arms tensed. He looks angry, but also upset. Disappointed. That sends you into an even bigger panic than a bad grade, or the potential of losing your spot at this university. It grows inside your chest, overwhelming, prompting you to say possibly the worst thing you could’ve come up with in this situation.

“What if I just take a whooping?”

He pauses. For a moment you’re both silent, still as statues as you process your own words, what you just asked for. Heat rises to your face so fast it makes you dizzy.

“What?”

You want to run away from this classroom. You want to go to the airport and take the next plane back to your country, classes and scholarship be damned.

However, now the words are already out, hanging heavy between the two of you. You can’t just back down, show him you spoke without thinking. You force yourself to nod, praying to the gods of every religion you know that your cheeks aren’t red enough that he can notice it.

“Yeah. It’s a good punishment,” you say. “Why not?”

“Because it’s not allowed. And because we are not in the 1930s.”

“You know in a lot of places corporal punishment in schools is still legal.”

“And Seoul isn’t one of them.”

“Please, Mr. Hwang.” You lower your eyes, trying to hold back the tears that are threatening to rush to the surface. “I know what I did was wrong. But I’d never– willingly betray your trust. I just want to get my punishment, and for things to be back to normal.”

Above all, you want him to stop looking at you like he is right now. Like you’re just any other student, like he doesn’t admire you for your passion and intelligence. Like you haven’t been spending almost every evening after class with him instead of hanging out with your classmates, trying to make friends your own age. Like you don’t mean anything to him.

Mr. Hwang regards you for several long moments. You try to hold his intense gaze, to figure out what he’s thinking, but both tasks are impossible.

“Would you really put yourself through that for a grade?” he asks.

You shake your head slightly, but that stubborn determination doesn’t leave your eyes. “It’s not just a grade.”

His respect for you. The friendship you two have tentatively built over the past few months. That’s what you truly fear losing.

The seconds tick, stretching for so long it feels like torture. It’s so silent in the room you wonder if Mr. Hwang can hear how fast your heart is beating in your chest.

“Okay,” he says finally, sharply. “Fine.”

“Really?” You’re unable to keep the surprise from your voice, from your face, even though you try.

“If you think you can take it.” Something about his voice as he says it, the low baritone of it, sends a new rush of warmth to your body; this time descending directly between your legs. 

“Of course I can.”

No, you probably can’t, and you’re well aware of that. But his words sound like a challenge, and a feeling claws at your chest – perhaps your pride and stubbornness, or simply embarrassment, or something else entirely that you’re not sure how to name – stops you from taking the words back.

“Alright then.” He gives a short nod, and you’re unsure if it was meant for you or for himself. “Bend over the desk.”

Why is it that a simple order for him makes your insides twitch like you’re about to pass out? Your legs shake as you take a step closer to his desk, looking down at the papers and folders neatly on top of it. Drawing in a breath, you bend your upper body down until your elbows touch the dark wood.

It’s only then that you notice your compromising position. Emily had joked with you about how the length of your skirts had gotten shorter with every visit to Mr. Hwang, and today’s pick was a plaid skirt that didn’t leave much to the imagination as it was. With you bending down like this, you can feel the fabric follow the movement, exposing even more of you to the professor.

The noise of his belt being removed only makes it worse. You shut your eyes, trying not to picture him letting his pants drop to the floor, trying not to think about how much you wish this is what was happening.

“Are you ready?” he asks, giving you one last chance to back down. You should take it.

You shut your eyes and nod your head. "Yes."

There’s a whistle in the air, and you let out a gasp as the first blow lands across your ass. Fuck. You’d seen it coming, and the fabric of the skirt absorbed much of the impact, but it still spreads the first hints of pain over your skin. Another blow directly under the first one, exactly where it should be. You clench your jaw, your mind flying back to childhood memories, to the last spanking you received at eleven years old – well over a decade ago, and yet you feel much more helpless now, a third blow of the belt making you jump in your spot.

The next one breaks the pattern, hitting on a diagonal angle right on top of the other three. It’s harder than the others too, sharper, slicing even deeper into your already stinging skin. You cry out, unable to hold it back, unable to catch your breath in time not to cry out again when the belt comes down on your ass one more time.

He sets a rhythm of harsh, punishing blows. They’re precise and calculated, deliberate, like he really means each and every one of them. Of course he does – when Professor Hwang sets his mind to something, he doesn’t quit until the job is done, down to the littlest details. And right now, he seems intent on making sure no spot of your ass is left untouched by the belt. He gradually picks up speed, until you’re unsure when one strike ends and the next begins.

It fucking hurts. It hurts so bad you don’t even find it in yourself to be embarrassed when the fabric of your skirt slides up and out of the way, leaving your bottom and your underwear exposed to him.

The pain is even worse when the leather belt makes contact with your bare skin; sharp and blazing hot, like he’s setting fire to you. You’ve bitten the inside of your lip hard enough to draw blood, but that doesn’t stop the sounds being ripped out of you, whimpers and cries and something that sounds way too close to Mr. Hwang’s name.

He pauses, his breaths heavy behind you. You collapse against the desk, elbows no longer strong enough to keep you propped upwards. With your ear pressed against the surface, you can hear your own heard that thumps wildly inside your chest, all your senses concentrated into a single point in your body.

“Do you want to stop?” he asks.

His tone isn’t judgmental, but your mind still echoes his words from just a few minutes ago: if you think you can take it. You’re not giving up now.

“I’m fine,” you snap, way too breathless for the statement to have any real impact, although your stubborn defiance is certainly there. “Just fucking finish it.”

His hand, warm and broad, finds its way in between your shoulder blades. He leans in, puts his weight into it, keeping you firmly pressed down over the desk. For some reason, your instinct isn’t to squirm away but to push into the heat, but you can’t move much one way or another under his grip.

“Then stay still.” His voice is so much closer to you, making you wish you had the strength to lift your head up and chase for his eyes.

Half a breath after the words are out, he strikes you again; this time with his other hand.

You sob and buck against the desk, the legs of it scraping against the floor. You can’t tell if his palm is better or worse than the belt. The pain isn’t as biting, but it’s broader and warmer, sending more fire into your already burning flesh. And it’s then that you realize you’re pushing into it, arching your back as best as you can, tilting your ass up to meet the assault. Basically offering it on a silver platter, presenting it to him and his ferocious, punishing hand.

And you’re wet.

You can feel it soak your panties, so much that you’re sure Mr. Hwang will be able to see a wet spot on them if he looks for it. Humiliated tears rise to your eyes, leaving you in a tumbling sob, desperately seeking relief but not wanting this to ever stop.

“M-Mr. Hwang.” The next strike hits you way too close to your core, the tiniest bit of friction that feels like heaven. You hiccup another cry, tears falling down and pooling over the smooth surface of the desk. “Please, I–”

You don’t even know what you’re pleading for anymore, but the word continues to leave your lips, over and over. His fingers come down hard over the sensitive spot where your ass meets your thighs, and you wonder if he knows what he’s doing to you – if he knows you’re on the brink of an orgasm just from this, that if he touches over you even for one second it might be enough to push you over the edge. He keeps going, alternates between one cheek and the other, his open palm covering as much skin as it can.

His hand travels down lower once again, warming your thighs to the same blistering heat as your ass. “God,” you breathe. You hadn’t noticed how hard your fingers are gripping the edges of the desk, your knuckles white, as if holding on could somehow save you.

He pauses again, and you can’t tell if you’re relieved or disappointed. You feel yourself throb inside your panties, wet and hot and neglected.

“Count them,” he orders.

You wince as his hand hits a sore spot, on top of skin that had already been hit too many times. “O-one.”

He lashes again and again.

“Two, three– fuck! F-four– fuck, please. I can’t, I can’t count anymore.” You’re unable to think straight at this point, unable to do anything other than cry and feel and want.

“God,” he sounds wrecked as well and you can’t understand why; you’re the one who feels as if you’re fighting for your life. He watches you, and you can’t decide if you’re embarrassed at your own state, the tears on your face and your ass that’s probably bright red by now, exposed to the professor, or if you’re too desperate for a release to think about that.

“It’s okay.” His hand lands on your hip, but doesn’t strike you again. It only caresses, his touch feather-light and delicate, a stark contrast to the harsh blows. “You did good.”

The light touch is enough to make you moan, breathing a deep sigh of relief. His touch feels unintentional, like he’s mesmerized, not fully aware of what he’s doing as he simply as he tries to ease the sting from the spanking. But when he drops down to press a kiss to the back of your shoulder, his body heat enveloping you – that can’t be accidental.

You lean into his touch as best as you can, and that’s when you feel it; something hard press against your core through layers of clothing, his cock a perfect, undeniable point of heat against you.

Both of you let our a simultaneous moan when you rub yourself back against his length. You want nothing more than for him to split you open, to push into you without a warning, without giving you time to adjust. Not that you’d last a long time, but you’d let him keep thrusting into you, having his way with your body until he was satisfied.

His hand slides under your bodies, inside your underwear.

“In-ho,” you sigh, a weak sound.

The sound of his name seems to pull you from whatever trance he’s stuck in. He stops, fingers just inches from your clit, like he’s only just realizing he’s on top of a student in his classroom. You try to lift yourself up, to rub against him again, but he doesn’t move.

He pulls away from you, and you feel like you could cry again in sheer desperation. Instead, you just stay there against the desk, wondering what the fuck just happened.

After a few moments, he lifts you up gently by the arms, turning you around to face him. He smooths out your sweater, but he doesn’t look at you. Not even once.

“You can go now, Ms. ____.”

You look at him in disbelief – first at his face, then at the tent that’s still very much apparent at the front of his pants.

“But–” you stammer. “Don’t… don’t you want me to–?”

He’s back in professor mode, organizing his papers that had turned into a mess. Still not fucking looking at you. His hair, usually neatly combed back, is now all over the place, and he looks like he’s about to break down himself.

“I’ll take care of the… assignment issue,” he says. “Go back to your dorm. It’s getting late.”

You don’t dare to disobey, even when tears rush to your eyes once again. Maybe it was all just about the assignment to him, and you got it all wrong. Or maybe – the thought hurts before it’s even fully formed in your mind – he regrets everything you’ve done.

It’s a short walk to your dorm, and you’ve never been more grateful that your roommate is not around. You throw yourself into your bed, hissing as your ass lights up in pain. It brings up all the memories back at once; the crack of the belt in the air, his warm hand stinging on your skin, the outline of his cock pressed against you.

You’re still soaked when you bring your own hand past your skirt and into your panties, not bothering to actually take them off. Two fingers slide inside, instantly finding a spot that melts your insides and makes you clench around yourself. Your other hand grips your own hip, intensifying the pain there.

“Mr. Hwang,” you moan, just to say it out loud. Your thumb brushes over your clit, just a hint of a touch and you’re gone, coming so fucking hard around fingers you do your best to pretend are his instead of yours, just at the thought of him doing this to you.

You come down slowly, so dazed you can barely open your eyes, but it doesn't bother you. Your ass has gone from searing hot to a dull, lingering ache, sure to keep you hurting for days to come. Good. You fall asleep thinking about it, thinking of his voice and his hands on you, trying to live in those moments for as long as you can.

[dogloveri23]

Crushes never last

Pairing: Phainon x reader

Warning: angst a little.

A/n: I’ve been away for quite some time but the thought of allowing tumblr to continue on with non enough Phainon fics is torturing me! Also I’m a little rusty!

“You’re really going to leave without confessing to that idiot?” Mydei asked. I was. I was going to leave. There was no longer a reason to stay on Amphoreous. All the issues had been resolved, the team had reunited and everything was stable. The mission was over.

“I doubt there’s much gain to it,” I replied as we both watched Phainon speak to Stella and Dan Heng. His body as expressive as his words. He was overflowing with energy given the situation that had just concluded. That was just who he was. Always the man brimming with energy while I struggled with the pain coursing through body. “He seems just fine.”

“So you’d rather leave? Not say anything at all instead of try. That’s cowardly… even for you.”

What would be the point of a confession? I didn’t expect Mydei to understand but loving Phainon was not an option. Loving the man known as The Deliverer would leave me absolutely heartbroken.

The entirety of Amphoreous swooned over him and every word he spoke, excluding Mydei. He was a demigod. I could never just have him to myself. He radiated positivity. He was a fresh ray of sunshine on a cold day. The kind that melts the cold off your skin and let’s it breathe once more. That was Phainon.

A comfortable sun is dangerous, it’s not to hot nor too warm, it’s perfect. One taste of it and you’ll never want to leave. I had to leave. I had completed my mission and now I had to say goodbye.

The path of the trailblaze is not a path of strong romantic bonds. They certainly happened, but most of the time, it came at the cost of trailblaze. The trailblaze was my life. It was who I was at my very core. The exploration, the adventure- all of it was me.

To fall in love, I have to determine whether or not the individual is worth losing it all. Is he worth losing the freedom of exploration? The snowy mountains of Jarilo-VI or the dazzling dreams of Penacony? Is he worth me leaving the express and finding a new home here.

The short answer- yes. The long answer- I’m not ready to let go yet. There was too much of the universe I hadn’t seen. Lukasha was one of the, the blue planet was another. If I stayed there was a chance that I wouldn’t. A chance that the stellarons scattered around the universe would be found without me. I couldn’t do that!

If I decided to love him, could I risk leaving him here alone on my adventures and know that I would be leaving a tender hearted man like Phainon in a life of loneliness. Well that was a far thought.

It’s a bold assumption that a man like Phainon would like someone like me. Cold, Rash and Overly Calculating. But in the event that it even was true, it would be cruel of me to do so.

“Call it cowardly if you will.”

“Do you think he’s a waste of time?” No. He was worth all the time in the world.

“I think leaving him here after confessing my love is cruel. If he accepts that it…”

“And what?” Mydei asked crossing his arms. “You think he wouldn’t do that if he loved someone?”

“I think because I love him, it would be unfair to make him do that.” He deserved someone who would be around- Who would love him CLOSE BY!

“Then let him make that choice,” Mydei sighed. “Phainon isn’t the smartest but he should have the choice. He should have the chance to hear that you love him. At least as proper closure to your chapter here.”

Mydei was right. I was taking the decision away from Phainon. “Hey Y/n, we’re meant to leaving now you know?” March said interrupting my conversation. She was in a sober mood because she missed most of the adventure but the pictures definitely made up for it.

“I’m coming, I just have to say goodbye to one last person.” I glanced over to Mydei who shot me a curt nod. Phainon practically ran over to me. His smile as radiant.

“I can’t believe this is the last time we’re going to be seeing for some time!” He exclaimed. He was bright as ever and I forgot what I was going to say. Was it even important? Was it worth it to ruin our final meeting with a confession knowing that there would be no happy ending?

“You can always call me you know?”

“It wouldn’t be the same! You’re such a great friend that I…” I stopped listening. Friend. Of course.

There was that cursed word again. It was true, we were friends but somehow the word made me feel sick to my stomach. Everytime he mentioned it, it was like my heart was swollen with rage. But he was right, we were friends.

Friends do not confess to one another.

“I’ll miss you too Phainon. Till the next time we see.” I turned my heel and left the confused man on the outskirts of the holy city.

I boarded the express and kept my eyes fixed on the planet known as Amphoreous. We would get moving soon and leave the atmosphere for good. Our fuel was sufficient enough now anyway. “Goodbye My love…” I mumbled as the express began to put a greater distance between us.

Part 2?

[traincat]

do you have any new spideytorch fics in current progress? of course no worries if not but i just wanted to ask. i’m absolutely obsessed with your writing and your fics!!

Thank you!

I sort of have two things I started, but haven't made a ton of progress on. I'm a little busy between work and a big bang in a different fandom, so these have been put to the side for now, but looking at them does make me want to finish them.

Fic 1 is a Just Married installment set in the future because I thought amnesia would be a fun trope to play with in the context of that universe. Basically, Peter gets whammied, forgets he ever fake-but-for-real married Johnny, and has to work out his feelings, which is horrible for him.

Peter picked up the framed photo, tilting it towards the light. He and Johnny stood at the center, splattered in -- he hoped it was paint. There was a gaggle of kids surrounding them, including two young brunet boys. One was clinging to Johnny's legs. The other was holding a water gun to Peter's head. “Our twin boys,” Johnny said, his hand pressed to his heart. “Threaderick and Weavon.” Peter nearly dropped the photo. “I’m just messing with you,” Johnny said. “That was from the day Bentley temporarily cloned himself. Which is pretty funny because he’s already a clone.” “It’s impossible to tell if any word coming out of your mouth is serious,” Peter said. “Johnny, I need you to be serious with me. Do we – do we have kids?” “No,” Johnny said, his mouth pressed into an unhappy line. He looked away from Peter. “We don’t have kids.”

Fic 2 is not even remotely presenting itself as serious. Like less so than the spider attracting body butter fic. I don't for a single second believe Peter would let Johnny's mustache from the North run go without comment.

Peter had been accused, by various people in his life, of being a variety of less than flattering things. Neurotic. Overprotective. Mildly overbearing. (“Stalkeresque,” Betty drawled from her desk, shooting him a nasty look. “Not a word, Betts,” Peter said, and kissed her on the top of her head as he dropped off her brown sugar latte. “Parker!” Jonah shouted from his office. “Do you even work here anymore?!” “Adios!” Peter said, and beat it before Jonah could call security.) (the FF come back from idk. space or whatever. I'm not pretending this canon compliant with North's run, I just want to make mustache jokes.) “I’m warning you, Bug,” Ben said. “You’re not going to like what you see.” (what he sees is the mustache. he does not like it.) -- “I don’t get what the problem is,” Harry said, waving a lofty hand in the air. “So he wants to grow a mustache. Let him grow a mustache.” “The problem is it’s hideous,” Peter said. “It’s like looking a dead, blond weasel on his upper lip.” “You liked the mustache I had back in college,” Harry said, stroking the corners of his mouth with thumb and forefinger. He shrugged. “I guess not everyone can pull it off.” Peter decided to break it to him easy. “You know I love you, right, Har?” he said. “You’re my best friend. I’ll always be there for you.” “Aw,” Harry said. Then suspicion dawned on his face. “Wait. What are you getting at?” “I hated the mustache, Harry,” Peter said. (blah blah blah) “Gwen liked the mustache, though, right?” Harry said. “Gwen said she liked it. She said it made me look like a malfeasant.” Peter didn’t bother to ask if Harry knew what that meant. “Gwen paid MJ fifty bucks to shave it off while you were sleeping.” “Huh,” Harry said. He drummed his fingers on the tabletop. “Wow. I haven’t had the urge to get Dad’s Green Goblin gear out of storage in a long time.” “Good talk, Harry,” Peter said. -- Johnny had his waxer on speed dial and a biweekly appointment at New York’s most exclusive salon. There was no way the mustache was going to last. Peter gave it a week. A week and a half, tops. (blah blah blah) “Johnny,” Peter said, taking him by the shoulders. “Sunshine. Firefly. Light of my life.” His gaze dropped to the mustache and then back up to Johnny’s eyes. “Is this war?” “I have no idea what you mean,” Johnny said, but he reached up and twirled one end of the mustache. Sparks danced in his eyes. Peter’s jaw clenched. War it was.

I'm titling this one Mustache You a Question, obviously.

[coffeeaddictbluebird]

Limbo - Charles Leclerc

Summary: Charles invites her to dinner, and she doesn't know how to feel about it. WC: 0.8K Warning: None. Genre: Angst?

She entered the quaint restaurant that Charles had chosen for the evening. It did not go unnoticed that it was an Indian establishment—her favourite cuisine. She was beginning to regret this decision; it was starting to hurt her heart already. Her tired eyes scanned the mostly empty venue. He was sitting in a corner, facing the door, quietly perusing the menu as if it were the most fascinating thing in the world. He looked up just as she caught sight of him, as if he was subconsciously aware of her presence. He nodded at her— acknowledging her presence just enough. Nothing more, nothing less.

He didn’t even get up to greet her. She was vexed that it bothered her; even a little. She quickly crossed the small space and sat across from him. She glanced at the menu, as she waited for him to speak. Two could play this game. She asked the server for a simple chicken curry and rice, and a light frown appeared on her face for less than a second upon hearing his order—a decaf latte. Even more pins pricking her heart as she realised she had lost the right to comment on his choice for dinner. She sat there, staring out at the street and mulling over the fact that he could converse with the server, but not with her. What had happened to them?

They were here because he told her he had something to say. Minutes passed in silence. The server returned with their orders, and she began eating. The fact that the silence was still slightly comfortable between them, even after all this time, vexed her. She was content just eating in his presence. The memory of the last time she felt this kind of peace was just out of reach. She cursed her heart, realising that she did not even possess it. It was with him, tucked away somewhere, albeit securely. More pinpricks. That seemed to be the running theme of this meet.

She quickly finished her meal, still without a single word from Charles. She was trying not to shy away from the fact that he was observing her. His gaze scrutinised every bite, every sip of her buttermilk. The server cleared away their table, placing a bowl of lemon water for her. She glared at him as he picked up the bill, but said nothing. This whole ordeal had left her feeling like a fool for being here. She thought she might receive answers to at least some of the questions that have been keeping her up at night. 

She gathered her things. “Say what you need to say, or I’m leaving. I don’t have time for this.”

“I have nothing to say,” he replied, his calm exterior unchanged. She frowned.

“Then why did you invite me to dinner?” She was entirely frustrated now. This did not make sense.

“Because you haven’t been eating properly. You’ve lost weight.” He averted his eyes. She wished she had had some kind of warning for that response.

“I’m confused, Charles.” He frowned at that. He did not remember the last time she had called him that. “What are we? Are we broken up, or did we fight?” He noticed how her nostrils flared. He would never not find it cute. “What are we? Are we going to break up, are we still fighting, or did we break up? He flinched.

“I’m still in the process of getting over you,” was the only answer he could give. That was the only answer he had. He didn’t know why either.

“So you are still doing it.” A single tear rolled down her eye, her throat closing up as she tried to control herself from breaking down in front of him. The scene was a bitter reminder that sent him back to that cruel night.

“Please let me give up.” Why was he pleading? Maybe because she still held all the strings.

“Next time, instead of feeding me, answer me. Tell me whether we are breaking up.” She swiped harshly at her eyes.

With that, she stood up and left. He slumped down in his chair, staring at the door and hoping for it to open again. Waiting for her to come back, climb into his lap, and tell him it was all a stupid fight. And that they were okay.

His phone buzzed on the table. He picked it up, not knowing why he was expecting her to text him after this fiasco. All he found was a credit in his bank account, roughly equivalent to her share of the meal. It felt like a knife piercing through his heart. She had never paid him back. Not after their second date. She always reciprocated by doing something for him, buying him things, or paying the next time they went out. A grave realisation dawned upon him. Opening the banking app on his phone, he quickly picked up his keys and ran out.

A/N: Hi! Thanks for reading my work. Please like, reblog and follow for more content. Let me know if you want a part two.

[to-the-stars8]

The Waynes' Nanny

Batfamily and Reader/ Bruce Wayne x Reader Chapters Ao3

Front Page Scandal

“Are you ready?” You asked, and Damian responded by nodding enthusiastically. “Here we go!”

You pushed the swing and watched as the little boy swung up in the air before back towards you. Damian shrieked and giggled, exclaiming that Duke should hold his hand. Duke, who was quickly catching up on his little brother’s swings, reached out. While they were occupied in trying to match each other, you looked for Mr. Wayne. He had surprised the kids at the part an hour earlier after taking the rest of the afternoon off since it was a Friday.

On the other side of the playground, in an empty field, was Bruce playing kickball with the rest of the kids. He was a self-elected coach of the game, especially since there was such an age range of children, and was currently running around with the little red ball in his hands. A mass of children were following him, some of his brood while others weren’t, with a big, silly grin on his face.  

“Look at your dad,” You said to the boys. “Doesn’t he look a bit goofy running around like that?”

Duke laughed and happily exclaimed, “Yeah!”

Suddenly, another voice came up behind you, and said, “Excuse me, Miss?”

You whipped around on your heels, feeling your heart jump out of your skin from fright. Grabbing the chains of the swings with one hand to slow their momentum, you looked her over with full suspicion. She was pretty, with long red hair and bright brown eyes that instantly caught your attention. 

“Can I help you?” You asked, stepping back to be closer to the kids. 

Her smile seemed fake. It was too forced and didn’t reach her eyes. “I’m a reporter with the Gotham Gazette, and was wondering if you would be willing to comment on your relationship with Mr. Wayne.” 

That was your cue to get the kids out of there. 

Truthfully, you didn’t fully read your contract through, but you did remember one part of it (mainly because it was written in red ink and highlighted): Under no circumstances were you to speak to the press, nor were you allowed to let them speak to the kids. You picked up Damian, who loudly whined about his swing time being cut in half, and took Duke by the hand. 

“I can’t speak to you,” You stated before retreating towards Mr. Wayne. 

He was still running around with the other kids, but, when he noticed you hurrying towards him, all fun seemed to pause. His eyes locked in on the woman behind you, and, after telling the kids to keep playing without him, started toward the three of you. 

“What’s going on,” Bruce asked, gently grabbing you by the arm to maneuver your positions so that he was in between you and the woman who was rapidly approaching. 

“Reporter,” was all you could manage before the redhead was greeting Mr. Wayne. 

Bruce groaned and ran a hand down the sides of his face before he turned to her. “Vicky, what’re you doing bothering my family?”

“I’m not bothering your family,” She stated matter-of-factly. 

“No, just my nanny, huh?” He said. 

“Nannies have a lot to say,” Vicky quipped as she looked back at you with a wink. “Especially the pretty ones.”

You would have taken the compliment if you knew it was genuine. 

Bruce sighed before he called the rest of the kids over, telling them that it was about time to go home. They were all angry, Dick more so, and pointedly glared at Vicky who cooly stared at all of them. Between comforting and looking at Vicky, you could not help feeling a tingling sense that this would not be the last time she would come sniffing you out. 

---

The shopping was usually done by Alfred, but he had been pulled away by some work. Truly, you were happy to do it. There was something freeing about going out to do normal things without the kids. You could listen to the music you wanted, pick out items that you actually liked, and, most importantly, you didn’t have to divide your attention in six different ways. Juggling grocery bags, you attempted to grab the handle of the trunk of the car, but it seemed impossible without dropping something. That was until a hand reached from your side and grabbed. You gasped and took a few steps back before you realized who it was. Vicky. 

“What the fuck are you doing here,” You asked, throwing the groceries into the back of the car. Slamming the trunk, you began to round the car to the driver’s side with Vicky hot on your heels. It felt worse than having the kids following you. 

“A hello or thank you would be the appropriate response,” She said. 

The frustration grew in your chest when your keys decided it would be a good time to disappear. “Hello, thanks for helping. You can leave.”

“I just have a few questions,” Vick insisted, getting out her notepad. 

You groaned, saying, “I can’t talk to you! It’s literally in my contract that I can’t talk to you. Unless you’re gonna start paying my bills, then I think you need to leave.”

Vicky stared at you in the same cool way she looked at the kids a few days ago. It felt as though she was silently saying that it would get you to talk one way or another. Thinning your lips, you turned back to your bag to continue looking for the keys. She sighed, before leaning on the car next to yours. 

“Just answer one question, then I’ll leave you alone.”

Side-eyeing her, you mumbled, “Ask it and I’ll think about answering it.”

There was a sliver of a smirk on her face as he coyly asked, “Have you ever slept with Bruce?”

“What? No! What is it with people asking me that,” You grumbled, finally finding the keys. “Aha!”

Vicky quickly said, “I’m just surprised is all. Bruce seems like the type to fuck anything not nailed down. I will say, though, he’s skilled with his tongue.”

You paused, narrowing your eyes at her, before opening the car door. You felt flushed all of a sudden, searing hot anger rushing through your veins. It was like your heart jumped at the thought of Bruce touching another woman. Bruce had brought home women before, and he would again. It made no sense that you felt offended that he had a sex life while you didn’t. 

“Yeah, I don’t care. My job is the kids.”

“You’ve never thought about getting into bed with him?” She asked, stepping closer so that she was leaning against the back door of your car. You could smell her perfume, the flowery, expensive scent nearly made you gag. 

Opening the car door, you turned to her to say, “Again, my job is taking care of the kids, not fucking Bruce Wayne. I’ll leave that to his partners.”

“He brings home a lot of lovers?” She tapped the pen to her notepad.

You snickered, mumbling, “No, that’s not what I’m saying.”

“How’s that?”

Shaking your head, you closed the car door and started it, pulling out of the parking lot. Yup, you thought, you knew this was going to come back to bite you in the ass. 

--

You were folding clothes in the playroom, just having sent the kids off to school with Alfred, when Bruce came barrelling in. His momentum was so quick that he was nearly kicking up dust. His face was hard, with his eyebrows pinched together and his mouth pressed together in a pout. Bruce was angry about something, but you couldn’t think of a reason why. 

When he threw the paper down on the cushion, you flinched at the title. 

Bruce Wayne a Player? The Nanny Says No!

Under the caption was a piss-poor picture of you getting into the car with the kids all around you. You felt angrier at the kids' pictures being plastered all over the front pages than the title. 

“You talked to the press?” Bruce yelled.

You drew back a little, surprised. You had heard him yell before, but never directly at you. It was more than likely out of fear, you knew, but that didn't make you like it in any case. Anger filled your veins and you decided to give him the same medicine. “I didn’t talk to the press! Vicky Vale harassed me when I went shopping the other day.”

“What’s this, then, hm?” Bruce asked, opening to the column of the story and beginning to read. “‘Nanny Wayne, a new, popular figure of the Wayne Household, stated that Bruce Wayne does not play around as much as we were led to believe.’”

“I said nothing of the sort!”

“Nan, Vicky knows better than to lie about me, or my kids. She wouldn’t put her career on the line for a damn title,” Bruce spat.

“But, I would? Maybe you don’t know her as well as you thought,” You said as you put the folded clothes into a basket. “Outside of the bedroom, I mean.”

Bruce huffed before turning to leave, stopping at the door, and coming back over to you. “What did you say to her, then?”

For a second, you thought about not telling him, just out of spite, but you couldn’t lie to him when you thought about how it would hurt you and the kids. You told him all about how Vicky found you in the parking lot to her mentioning how good he was with his tongue. The entire time, you watched his face. It remained frozen in the same pinched face angry expression that he had when he came in. 

When you were done, he finally met your eyes, saying, “And that’s all you said?”

“I wouldn’t lie to you, Bruce,” You softly insisted. “I promise.”

He grew quiet, like he was thinking, and then leaned over to pick up the newspaper. Looking at it, he said, “I’ll handle this.”

“Bruce,” You called out to him as he began to leave. He turned back toward you, and you around the couch towards him. It took you a second to find the words, but they eventually tumbled out of your mouth. “You would always want me to tell you something if it bothered me, right?”

“Yes.”

“I…I don’t like the fact that I’m always getting asked if we’re sleeping together,” You stated. “I’m good at my job.”

“You are,” He stated. “Good at your job, I mean.”

You smiled, and he stepped closer to you. Close enough that, if you were to get onto your tip-toes and lean up, you could kiss him- As simple as that. Though, you opted for a quiet, “Thank you.”

Bruce nodded before he looked like he realized what he was doing. “I’ll take care of it, Nan. Of all of it. I promise.”

"Okay, Bruce," You said. 

As he left, the butterflies in your stomach went wild. 

[5targh0st]

NUMBER ONE GIRL

78. don’t kick his ass (written)

prev // m.list // next

Looking at the ceiling, still feeling something between numbed and overwhelmed, Yeonjun convinces himself that he did what he had to do. It’s just a little break until he manages to get Yuna to stop harassing him. Once she’s out of the picture, all those feelings will go away. Once she’s gone again, he can go back to the life he’s worked so hard for, right? He knows he’s hurting the person he loves most in the world, but it’s all for a good reason. Surely, you will understand. He will explain and you’ll understand. Just not right now. Not when his old wounds are wide open and you can see his pitiful soul covered in blood. He just needs a few days, maybe weeks, and everything will be okay again.

He really wants to believe that, because it’s been just a couple of days and he’s already dying to talk to you and go back to how things were; how they’re supposed to be.

“Can you please calm down?” Dahyun sighs yet again.

Joshua’s been angry and anxious ever since he saw those posts. Just what the fuck is Yeonjun doing.

“I can’t!” He’s beyond exasperated right now. “She literally said nothing’s going on and yet has gone radio silence ever since. I need to know she’s okay, and she won’t talk to anyone. And I can’t go to Seoul ‘cause we’re closing an important deal and those fuckers insist on seeing me.”

“Hansol says he’s going,” she tries to reassure him.

“That’s way worse!” He complains.

As if sensing they were talking about him, Halson walks into the living room. He looks like he’s ready to kill someone.

“I’ll call you as soon as I get there.” He announces while he makes sure he has his passport with him.

“Just don’t kick his ass right away,” Dahyun pleads.

“I’m not making any promises,” Hansol rolls his eyes.

“She’s gonna hate us if you do,” Josh reminds him. “Just make sure to get both sides of the story.”

“We’re literally meddling in her private life, she’s gonna hate us regardless.” Sarcasm drips from his voice. “So I have to at least land a good punch on that fucker.”

Joshua can’t help but sigh again. Contrary to popular belief, Hansol is way more prone to be a lot more overprotective than he is, and that already says a lot. Of, course, Joshua knows he’s intense and kind of abrasive, but he’s never one to resort to violence. Josh admits he’s the bark, and Hansol is the bite. That’s why they make such a good team. And that’s why he didn’t want him to go alone.

“I really hope you guys don’t regret this,” Dahyun says hugging his waist.

“I think we will.”

During the flight, Hansol tries to think about something else. He really, really tries to write a song and even read the book he always carries around which title he’s already forgotten. He can’t. His mind goes back to his little sister and, by extension, to Josh.

He still remembers the day they met, they were both five and trying not to die of boredom at one of the fancy dinners their parents used to host all the time. Joshua’s chubby cheeks and proud grin are still clear in his mind, “I’m gonna be a big brother soon,” he remembers Joshua bragging. That summer, they met every day and Joshua would say he’d be his big brother too. He was bossy, even more than now, but he was fun. Joshua would try to teach him stuff and care for him, he really enjoyed flexing those few months between their birthdays. Hansol has to admit that he was a little jealous of Joshua’s unborn sister, he liked the attention and felt that the little girl would steal Joshua from him.

And then he saw her. So tiny and fragile, she stole his heart. “Can I be a big brother too?” He remembers asking Joshua. And it’s been like that ever since. He was there as much as he could and tried to help here and there. He thought little Yn would interfere with his time with Joshua, but it was Joshua who’d always tried to cut short his time with the little girl. He loved attending her tea parties and letting her and Karina paint his nails. He’s loved her ever since he first saw her, he’d give up his life for his sister. Blood doesn’t matter, that’s his sister. And he’s gonna make sure Yeonjun understands.

That’s what made him lose his mind in the first place. He was the first to welcome Yeonjun to their little family and even encouraged him to finally ask Yn out. He was really grateful for his presence in his sister’s life. He never expected that he would do something like this, especially completely out of nowhere.

“What the hell is going on?” He mutters looking out the window. There’s nothing to see, though, not besides some dark clouds in the distance.

Three days. It’s been three days since Yeonjun said he needed some space. You still can’t make sense out of his words. You tried texting him, calling him. You haven’t shown up to his place, though, you don’t think you could handle such a direct rejection if he refuses to see you even then. Where did it all go wrong? Everything was going great, better than great even. Everything was perfect.

Were you too pushy? Too clingy? Just too much? Or maybe he got scared? This was his first relationship after a really long time, after all. Maybe everything got way too serious way too fast. He did say he wanted to take things slow, see where it goes. But you thought you were on the same page, you thought you both had the same goals and desires. What if he was just trying to please you? What if you were just a means to an end? What if he was just trying to prove that he could be in a relationship?

But he said he loved you? Loved? When did you start to think about him in past tense? Isn’t he your present and future? Fuck. Everything is a little too overwhelming.

“I need to get out,” you say before grabbing your keys and going out.

You walk around for a few hours but turns out that that’s not enough to ease your mind. Your thoughts are still driving you crazy. Your heart still aching. And Yeonjun’s still missing. When did you get so used to him being around? You miss his jokes, his laugh. His yapping, his random stories. Every single part of him became a part of you. How is it possible to love someone that much in such a short time? His little quirks are engraved in your mind. And you miss him.

And then you see the best way to forget about everything. Even if just for a little while. You just want to forget. Life would be easier if you could just disappear until everything is right again.

“Just one drink,” you say before making your way into the bar.

Very bad idea.

notes:

please tell me you get the modern family reference 😭

joshua trying to be reasonable is my favorite thing ever

han is a real one

if you don't hate my writing and storytelling, you can help me choose my next story here lol

taglist: open! (3/50)

@estella-novella @poetryforthesad @lisaswifey @angelzforu @ihrtlix @gloriousqueenking @domfikeluva @conwunder @miniature-tragedy @jeonginplsholdmyhand @sh0dor1 @yourenzoo @tkshairband @realrintaro @castingjinx @amara-mars @hwangrfrnd @nujeskz @jisungs-iced-americano @zeizeisjy @va1entinaa @beomgyusluver @to-toad @akindaflora @hoefororeo @mandydxndy @nyanamii @delulu4-life @thatonexcgirl @starsunoo @4lndr17 @nbjch05 @borahae-reads @mrsstayfox @beomieeeeeeeeeeees @mrsminseochoi @velvetmoonlght @night-storm7 @lilbrorufr @hyunjinstolemyheart @mangojellyyy @ihrtantn @lausnotverybright @hwangism143 @wa1kinggh0st @skz-ot8-stay @athens-09xx

[witchygagirlwrites]

Fix You-Part 4

Kelly Severide x Reader x Matt Casey/Sevasey x Reader

You decide you're staying in Chicago, with your boys

warnings: passing mentions of sex, someone getting shot

“So, let me get this straight” Rein started then stopped to laugh and you cut her off by asking “What are you laughing at woman?” she came back closer to the phone “My own wording? I said let me get this straight about you and a couple. That’s so far from straight” you stared at the phone for a moment and slowly shook your head. “You know if you ever met Kelly, you’d get this statement even more but mine and my brother’s taste in people significantly worries me” 

She gasped playfully then said “Wait, what about Matt?” you grinned “Oh, his taste in people worries me but woman ask your question I need to get ready for work” she took a breath to steady herself “Ok, ok. You were ready to fight another station house, correct?” “Hell yes. Their idiot captain put Matt, Kelly and Capp at risk” you replied and she made a noise that you knew was her sucking air between her teeth and you could practically see that little wrinkle that got between her eyebrows when she made that noise “But you then dove over Cruz’s shoulder to swing on that captain because he continued to antagonize Matt and Kelly” “Yeah, so?” you were starting to get a little defensive. 

“Then when you got the flu,regardless of the fact that they could’ve in turn got it and been out of work for days. They used the three days they were off to camp out on your couch and take care of you, correct?” you sighed “Yeah”    

Rein called your name almost gently and you winced “What?” “You have feelings for them and they have feelings for you” you couldn’t deny it. You knew you had feelings for Matt and Kelly but how would that even work? They were a couple, a committed couple. Hell that was stepping into even more than Fireball stepped into with her guys and you and her had gotten into some pretty deep late night talks about feelings of inadequacy. 

“I don’t know what to do about it” you admitted and she laughed lightly “Here’s an idea, I know it’s crazy but hear me out..talk to them”  you laughed “Rein,have I ever told you how much help you are?” she giggled “Glad to be of assistance sis. Now get to work with your hunky firemen. Your brother will be home soon and I know you don’t want him over hearing anything good” 

“Ok, love ya” “Love ya too” you hung up and stared at the phone for a minute before climbing out of bed. Laying here wasn’t getting anything done.

“I’m telling you, there is something on the roof” Sylvie was staring up at the roof of the ambulance as you pulled back up to fifty one from your last call. You cut her eyes at her “Wasn’t there a dead raccoon on the road like right under the tree we parked at?” she nodded and your eyes widened “What if we have a raccoon up there?” 

“I’ll call animal control” she hopped out of the rig to hit the number but you figured why the hell wait. You’d worked with animal control more than once in New York. You were certified in the safe handling of most smaller wildlife. You opened the door of the ambulance and hooked your foot in the side of it before pushing yourself up and climbing onto the roof. You caught Cruz’s voice saying “Someone go get Casey and Severide” and laughed. Why were you getting told on?

You heard something again and squatted down next to the lights to find two tiny gray bundles squeaking at you. Babies!

_______________________

“Why is she on top of the rig?” Matt asked Kelly, both of them staring up at you and wondering just how you'd managed to get up there that fast. Kelly shrugged “I'm not exactly sure. Sylvie said something about raccoons on the last call” 

Matt turned to look at his boyfriend like he'd grown a second head about the time he heard you call his name. He looked up, blocking his eyes from the sun to see you had two little furry bundles in your hands “Is that baby raccoons Spitfire?” He asked and you grinned “Yeah! Now one of you prop me a ladder up so it'll be easier to get down with the little guys. They were hid under the lights they're terrified” 

Kelly grinned “I got you sweetheart” and Matt shook his head “We're not keeping raccoons” he could hear you and Kelly already talking about what to name the raccoons.

_______________________

“Why can’t I keep it?” you asked Matt who smiled “They’re illegal to have as pets in illinois! The animal rescue that’s coming is run by Ritter’s cousin. She’s going to let you name them and even said you and Kelly can visit them all you want”  You sighed “Fine” he grinned “What are you gonna name em?” 

You cut your eyes at Kelly before running your fingers over the baby raccoon he held “This one is smokey” then held up the one in your hand “and this one is bandit” Kelly grinned “I love em” and Matt shook his head but you saw the corner of his lips tic up “I’ll let Glory know. Smokey and Bandit”

After Glory took the babies away you were helping to get dinner ready in the kitchen, mainly because your stomach was threatening to eat other organs if it didn’t get anything in it soon. Matt walked past you on a rather large growl of it and raised an eyebrow “Have you eaten anything today?” you shrugged “I think” and mentally cursed her when Sylvie popped up with “No! She hasn’t” you spun around “Snitch!”

Cruz laughed from where he was stirring the chili “I think personally we should all just not let you leave. I mean the snowball fight was the most fun we’ve had around here in a while” “Then the entertainment of her going after that captain” Tony added and you shook your head “Do I get a say in the matter?” Kelly stepped up behind you and you had to look up at him “Of course, but your temp contract is coming up where you could sign on to be permanent”

You opened your mouth to say something but clamped it back shut, afraid you’d stammer if you tried and Matt cleared his throat “That’s enough, everyone and that includes you baby. We aren’t gonna convince her to stay by cornering her”  you shot him a small smile “Thank you” and he nodded before saying “Of course, another station house..their captain may not take up for you like that” and grinned when you shook your head.

_____________________

You sat down next to Sylvie and felt your phone vibrate. You picked it up to see you’d been added to a group chat. When you clicked it, only you, Matt and Kelly were in it. You cut your eyes across the room and the two of them were already looking at you. Taking notes from Mouse and Jay now? Really?

Kelly: Something had to have worked. They got their girl

Matt: We’re trying to figure out how to get ours

You felt your face warm. What were they thinking? This was not when this discussion should be had. My contract is coming up,in 6 weeks

Matt: One date?

Kelly: Please?

That was the problem. You knew if you agreed to one date, that would be it. The issue was, what if they didn’t want you like you wanted them. Would they go to this extreme to just get a threesome for one night? No. They took care of you when you were sick. They protected you on scenes. They opened up to you and let you open up to them but you always planned to go home to New York. One date 

Everyone’s attention in the room flew to them when Matt choked on his water and Kelly nearly spit a mouth full of chili out. You couldn’t help but laugh. Sylvie looked from you to them then raised an eyebrow “Did you send them a nude or something?” she whispered and you shook your head “No, I agreed to a date” 

“You’re getting ready, like right now?” Rein asked and you laughed “Yeah, you’re laying on the bed, on speaker phone so I can finish getting dressed before they get here” “Oh damn, you mean I am currently in your bed and your brother’s bed?” she asked before she cracked up laughing. You shook your head “I’m nervous. I haven’t dated that much since I’ve been in Chicago and now there’s two gorgeous men on the way to pick me up”

“Well don’t you have..shoot Fireball and Firecracker who’s in the same boat?” she questioned and you shrugged “Similar boats. Fireball, her fellas were kind of a thing when they figured out they wanted her then when they got back stateside they all went their separate ways then the fellas moved in together then eventually she moved in with them. Firecracker, that one is the exception. She took one look at her fellas and told em if they wanted her they had to figure out their crap first”

Rein sighed dramatically “Alas I only have your brother” and you started laughing “Sorry dear, someone had to take him” your phone chimed with the group chat between you, Fireball and Firecracker so you picked it up. “Was that loverboys?” she asked as you clicked the screen “No, it’s the girls” Fireball: Have fun, we want details tomorrow  Firecracker: Lots of details 

You shook your head and texted back There won’t be that many details but I’ll meet you two for coffee in the a.m.

Before you could lay your phone down a text came through from Matt Hey darlin, be there in 5. I’ll come up for you you cursed and realized you were still barefooted “I gotta go Rein. The guys will be here like any minute and I don’t currently have shoes on” she laughed “Oh hun. Love you” “Love you”

You were walking next to Matt, who reached out for your hand and laced his fingers with yours. “Will you take a breath please?” you cut your eyes at him and he smiled “You’re nervous. We can both tell” Kelly stepped around from Matt’s other side to slip his arm around your waist “Why? We like you, we stayed at your place for like three days and have seen you at your worst and believe me baby” he pulled back and blatantly checked you out “You were cute as hell then and drop dead gorgeous now” 

You felt your face warm as you shook your head “This is just..” “New?” Matt offered “A little weird?” Kelly suggested and you shrugged “unexpected?” 

“How so?” Matt asked, steering the three of you to a bench, where they purposely put you between them. “I always planned to go home to New York after my aunt passed and I got my uncle squared away” Matt nodded “We wouldn’t stand in way of that if that’s what you actually wanted” Kelly scoffed “We might” which caused you and Matt both to cut your eyes at him. He grinned “I’m kidding but still, like we could let her walk away?”

You sighed, staring down at your hands and fidgeting with your rings. “You two love each other. You’re gorgeous. Why do you want me?” 

Matt laughed lightly “Well the day you came rolling into fifty one it felt like the air itself got a little lighter” Kelly nodded “It damn sure got brighter from where we’re sitting” you shook your head “Be serious you two” 

“We are” Matt defended, turning to take both of your hands in one of his and you felt Kelly move closer to your side. “Do you know how long I’ve been trying to get him to open up on Shay’s birthday?” you cut your eyes at Kelly who nodded “Since she died, yet you came flying in. Made me eat, got me to talk and made me pull my head out of my ass to realize I was blocking Matt out from what was going on in my head and heart and that wasn’t fair to neither of us”

“The day you stood toe to toe with another firehouse in our defense” you shook your head “Capp was in there too” Kelly leaned down to whisper “You weren’t yelling about Capp. You were yelling about your captain and your lieutenant” you smiled slightly “Ok, point taken”

“You’re quiet at times you should be loud, loud at times you should be quiet” Matt laughed. “You barely sleep, can’t function without music and drink more coffee than the truck and squad combined” Kelly added and you started to stand up “Well geez just invite me out to tell me all my faults”

“Sit down” Kelly spoke low and you found yourself sitting. Matt smirked “Yeah I do the same” They both took one of your hands “You also have the ability to talk the entire house, us included into a snowball fight at two in the morning” Matt spoke, thumb tracing the back of your hand. “You make the best pancakes and can somehow correctly guess someone’s favorite color within minutes of talking to them” Kelly added, bumping his knee against yours.

“You pick up on people’s moods and can figure out what they need to help them. You go above and beyond for those you call your friends. You’re the most amazing woman we’ve ever met” Matt whispered and Kelly leaned over to add “And we think we could treat you right if you just gave us a chance here”  “And if we don’t work out?” you asked, not looking at either of them.

“Give us the six weeks you have left. A real chance. If you don’t want us then, we’ll help you pack and pay to have your stuff shipped back to New York” Matt offered. You raised your eyes up to look at him “Confident or cocky there Casey?” Kelly leaned over ���Little bit of both? C’mon, the worst thing that happens is we take you out and spend time with you over the next six weeks. If you want sex, we’ll happily oblige. Then if you want to tear our hearts out and leave us, we’ll even pay for you to do so”

You rolled your bottom lip between your teeth “I’m gonna have to make sure you both can kiss before I agree to anything”  before you could say anything else Kelly’s hand was gripping your chin gently to turn your face towards him. The moment his lips brushed against yours, you melted against him. He grinned into the kiss, licking into your mouth as he pulled you closer to him. You moaned lightly before having to pull away to get air “Fuck Sev” you breathed and he grinned “So I get a passing grade apparently” and looked over you at Matt “Baby, you’re up” 

Matt turned you towards him, his touch was a bit more gentle than Kelly but just as demanding. He kissed you slowly, savoring the feel of your lips on his, his hand slipping back to cup your head and hold you in place as he deepened the kiss, rolling his tongue against yours and when you whimpered lightly he pulled away, laughing when you chased his lips. He grinned “Think I passed too”

You shook your head slowly “This is going to be interesting to say the least” and they both stood up each offering you a hand “C’mon spitfire. The night isn’t even over yet darlin” Matt teased with a wink.

“Welcome to the club” Fireball laughed, clicking her glass against yours. Matt and Kelly were playing darts against Jay and Mouse. Firecracker had texted that her, Connor and Will were on the way too. “I still have a couple weeks before my temp contract is up” you reminded her and she cut her eyes over the guys. “You look at them how I look at Jay and Greg. You’re staying honey”

You raised an eyebrow and she grinned “It’s me Spitfire. I walked into a preexisting thing. I know how it feels to think you’re on the outside, to want to fall so bad but hold yourself back. Hell I left Chicago when they were asking me to stay because I just felt like I didn’t deserve being loved like that. Don’t hold yourself back. Bad shit happened to us when we held ourselves back from each other, I think about it too much, of what would’ve happened had we just stayed together when we got home”

“It’s barely been two months” you whispered and she grinned “That you’ve been dating them. You’ve known them for how long now?” and you smiled slightly “True” she shrugged, taking a sip of her beer “I’m just saying, if you care about them, think you could love them..don’t let it slip away” 

You woke up with Matt’s arms wrapped around your waist, your upper body curled up to Kelly’s chest. “What time is it?” you whispered and Kelly groaned, looking over his shoulder at the time “Early enough we can get breakfast at that place you like if we get up now”

You grinned “Sounds good to me” he pressed a kiss to your lips then leaned over you to catch Matt’s lips in a kiss. Matt pulled you back into a kiss once Kelly released him “Have you decided what you’re doing yet darlin?” your contract was up this week. There was no way you could leave Chicago. There was no way you could leave these two. 

“I think I’m going to stay” you all but whispered and they both froze. “Did she say she’s staying?” Matt asked Kelly who grinned “She did” you shook your head with a smile “Did you two really think I was going to leave?” Matt shrugged “We weren’t sure” “We hoped you weren’t” Kelly added.

You looked from Kelly back to Matt “I’m happy with the two of you, though I am going to have to renew my lease” Kelly waved a hand around the room “I own the loft baby. Why should you pay rent?” you shook your head “I can’t do that” “Bull. You’re our girl” Kelly argued and Matt nuzzled his face into your neck before telling Kelly “Don’t argue with her but darlin, there’s a spare room here if you’re not comfortable being in here with us every night quite yet. We can find middle ground here”

You nodded slowly “I really care about you two, I hope you know that” “We really care about you too” Matt replied and Kelly added “A lot” you smiled “I’ll think about moving in, ok?” “Ok. Lets go get breakfast” Kelly agreed.

You were walking through the common area when a call rang out for an ambulance to respond to an officer having gotten shot. Your heart hit your feet simply because you knew too many people. You cut your eyes at Sylvie as you ran to the rig.

You jumped in the driver’s seat and she jumped in the passenger seat as you pulled out onto the road. “Tell me it wasn’t intelligence” you asked and she flinched “It was” you felt your stomach knot.

______________________

You pulled the ambulance to a stop when  you spotted Voight’s suv and jumped out, grabbing your bag. “Who is it?” you asked him, falling in step. “Jay” 

You stood in the waiting room, between Matt and Kelly. Both of them had their arms wrapped around you. Fireball was curled into Mouse’s chest, her hand holding onto Firecracker who was curled into Will’s chest. The four of them were clinging to each other while Connor was tasked with saving the brother of the man he loved and one of the boyfriends of one of his closest friends. 

“Jay’s strong. He’s survived worse. You and Sylvie got him here alive darlin” Matt whispered in your ear. You nodded, eyes not leaving the four in front of you “Still doesn’t help my heart seeing my friends in pain” 

You spotted Connor and knew your knees weakened because Kelly and Matt’s arms tightened around you. You held your breath when Fireball, Mouse and Will stood up. When Fireball slung herself into Connor’s arms hugging him and they both laughed you let out a shaking breath. He was ok. Jay was ok.

Fireball looked over at you with tears in her eyes and mouthed “Thank you” you nodded “Go to your guy” she grinned and grabbed Mouse before following Connor down the hall “See? You helped save him” Kelly told you.

You turned to look at the two of them and felt a smile slip onto your face “We’re off tomorrow right?” they both nodded. You rolled your bottom lip between your teeth before saying “Help me move into the loft?” smiles slipped onto both of their faces “We can get your stuff tonight” Kelly offered and Matt shook his head “She’s tired!”

You laughed lightly “I am, so can we go home?” Kelly grinned “Yes ma’am” and he grabbed one of your hands while Matt grabbed the other.

@desimarie12

@waywardhunter95

@100yroldteenagers

@elvenpirate51

[criminallyvenomous]

Anytime, Always - Spencer Reid X Reader (part four)

part three story masterlist

•Plot - When Dr. Reid came to speak at your University, you were thrilled. A big-time F.B.I. agent at your own school, how could you resist? Soon, that wasn’t the only thing you couldn’t resist. Random meet ups and nights together were fun at first, but when he started guest lecturing on a regular? That was a whole new experience.

•Ship - Spencer Reid X Reader

•Fandom - Criminal Minds

•Warnings - Age gap (legal consenting adults), Alcohol, Fluff, Eventual smut, Pining, and of course a warning you might fall for Spence even harder post reading)

•Word Count - 569

•A/N - ik its short im sorry!!! it was hard to find a stopping point. still working on the longer next chapter but second session classes started this week at my uni and im still catching up on midterms so im swamped lmao. its also hard bc im debating smut or not in that chapter. six will be the start of prof! spence tho..

~

This was all new to Spencer. He hadn’t ever done something so ‘casual’. He hadn’t even ever had sex with someone who he didn’t really care for, not that he wasn’t starting to care for you. It’s just that drinking and sleeping together was more of a Derek Morgan thing, not a Spencer Reid thing. He’s beginning to think he’s in over his head. Maybe he should just call up the ‘ladykiller’ while you’re getting the Chinese.

“What’s up, playa?”

“Hey, Morgan. I think I’m a little out of my depth here.” Spencer admitted.

“What do you mean? You’re just visiting a ‘friend’, aren’t you?” He teased.

“I, um, may have-“

“I know, kid. What’s the problem?” Derek interrupted.

“I’ve never done something like this before.” Spencer confessed.

“Oh come on, you’ve had sex before, Spence.”

“I meant doing something so ‘relax’, something so casual.”

“Well, how did it happen the first time?”

“A good amount of alcohol.” Spencer said, making Derek chuckle.

“That’s called liquid courage, my friend. Well, do you like her?”

“Yeah, she’s great. It’s just that she’s young and we’re not like a couple or anything.” All Derek heard was the age comment.

“How young?” Derek pry-ed, Spencer could basically see his face right now.

“Don’t worry about it. I’m just gonna go.” Spencer was defeated, unsure of what to do.

“Hey, don’t put so much pressure on it. Just feel it out and do what feels right.”

“I have no idea how to do that.” Spencer chuckled and Derek did too.

“I know, kid. Just try. I mean, the date’s been going well, right?”

“Yeah, it’s been great.”

“Then don’t change anything. You’re great as you are, Reid.”

With the boost of confidence from his much more experienced friend, Spencer tried to swallow his pride. Plus, he was definitely going to seriously consider the ‘liquid courage’ that helped him out last time.

“Garlic tofu with rice for two and as many spring rolls we could get.” You did a little ‘ta-da’ motion as you approached the doctor.

“It smells amazing, it’s interesting though. This restaurant is supposed to be Chinese but has Vietnamese and Japanese options on the menu, like Pho and Ramen.” Spencer analyzed.

“You’re right. I guess most Americans don’t really notice the difference.”

~

“Awh, is this for me?” You asked as you took off your shoes along with Spencer.

The two of you went up to his hotel room on the third floor, upon entering you saw two stemmed glasses and a nice bottle of white wine on the nightstand.

“I asked room service for it. I figured it would be a step-up from the mini-fridge screw top.” He stated, walking up to pour the wine. You put your hand on his back.

“You’re the best, Spence.” You smiled, then realized. “Sorry, I meant Spencer. It just slipped out.”

“Don’t apologize. My friends call me that, too. Have to say, though, it sounds better coming from you.” He turned to hand you your glass.

God, he was sweet, funny, smart, and downright gorgeous. You didn’t care if you’d be stuck with meeting up every few months for a day or night together, it’d be worth it. You took a drink from your glass and looked over to Spencer.

“That’s so much better.” You both laughed and set the glass down on the nightstand closest to you.

[mintyys-blog]

Steves shock and awe at his wedding day with f.d reader as shes in a 40s inspired wedding dress ^^ . A quiet wedding with the team and her family plus the two being the sweetest couple.

Y/n was being interviewed at vogue the next month and asked about the ring and prior to the interview steve let her spill the beans cause they are married . Many awe sure theres haters yet shes faced harsher critics . Her and steve are adorable!!!

DESIGNER LOVE— steve rogers x fashion designer! reader

WARNINGS: none

Steve had been through countless battles, faced enemies beyond imagination, and even survived being frozen in ice for decades. Yet, nothing—nothing—had ever made his heart stop like the sight of Y/N walking down the aisle.

She was breathtaking.

Draped in an elegant, 1940s-inspired wedding dress, she was the embodiment of timeless beauty. Delicate lace sleeves clung to her arms, and the flowing skirt trailed behind her in a way that felt almost ethereal. The vintage silhouette perfectly accentuated her form, paying homage to the era he once called home. Steve felt as though he had stepped back in time, back to a dream he never thought he’d live to see.

His fingers clenched at his sides as a wave of emotions crashed over him. Love. Awe. Absolute adoration.

Bucky, standing beside him as his best man, smirked and elbowed him slightly. “Close your mouth, punk.”

Steve barely heard him. His blue eyes were locked onto Y/N’s as she moved forward, her father guiding her toward him. Her own gaze shimmered with unshed tears, lips curving into the softest, most loving smile.

When she finally reached him, Steve let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. His hands instinctively reached for hers, his thumb brushing against her knuckles as he whispered, “You are stunning.”

Y/N’s smile widened. “I wanted to wear something you’d love.”

Steve’s jaw clenched as he swallowed down the overwhelming emotion swelling in his chest. “I love you.”

The ceremony was intimate—just the way they wanted it. The Avengers sat amongst Y/N’s closest family, all of them witnessing a love that had withstood time, battles, and the weight of the world. There was no press, no grand spectacle—only them, promising forever.

As they exchanged vows, Steve could see nothing but her.

And when he kissed her, with her arms wrapped around his neck and his hands firmly at her waist, he knew this was the greatest victory of his life.

One Month Later – Vogue Interview

Y/N adjusted her blazer, smoothing down the fabric as she sat across from the Vogue interviewer. This was nothing new—interviews, press, cameras. She’d built a name for herself in the fashion industry, her designs gracing the pages of every major magazine. But today felt different.

Because today, she wasn’t just Y/N, the fashion designer. She was Y/N Rogers.

The interviewer leaned forward, her sharp eyes catching the glint of Y/N’s ring. “That’s a gorgeous ring. Tell me, is there a story behind it?”

Y/N glanced at the engagement ring and wedding band stacked on her finger, warmth spreading through her chest. She knew this moment was coming. Steve had told her before she left that she could finally spill the beans.

With a grin, she lifted her hand, letting the light catch the diamonds. “Actually… there is.”

The interviewer’s brows lifted. “Oh?”

Y/N leaned in slightly, as if sharing a secret. “I’m married.”

A beat of silence. Then—

“What? To who?”

Y/N chuckled, tilting her head knowingly. “Steve Rogers.”

The interviewer’s mouth fell open. “Captain America? The Steve Rogers?”

“The one and only.” Y/N smiled, twirling the ring slightly. “We had a small wedding last month. Just close family and friends.”

The internet would be in flames by the time the interview aired. Y/N could already picture the reactions—shock, excitement, and, of course, the inevitable hate.

But she had faced harsher critics before.

Let them talk. She had Steve.

And they were happy.

Absolutely, perfectly, incandescently happy.

[sturniolo04]

heyy i love your fics! i was wondering if you could write a dad matt fic where like his daughter gets their first period when her moms away on a work trip or smt and he’s panicking and has to deal with it. idk, their period cramp stimulator vid got me thinking, it was really funny. tyy

Girl dad!Husband!matt x girlmom!wife!reader

Dividers: @issysh3ll and @mintsturniolo

A/n: ofc I absolutely loved this request I put a slight spin on the work trip part and related some similar experiences I have had with my on time of the month but I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did writing it! Remember if you want me to write a request for you leave it in my inbox! Also, If you don’t like the pre added name in my works you can simply put in your own or don’t read it, its up to you :)-Charli

It was only a matter of time before your daughter, lily, hit that puberty point in a young girls life, her period, and you as a mom had always hoped you would be there to help her through her first one. Although because of your demanding career you had at the hospital you were gone for most of the day and often times come home early the next morning, like 2 in the morning early .

Today being one of the days you were at the hospital all day seeing patients and wouldn’t be home until hopefully midnight that night which leaves lily and your husband Matt to their own devices for the day.

“Hey lily bug”

Matt greets his daughter coming into her room curled up in a tight ball on her bed which raises concern immediately.

“What’s wrong are you okay”

Matt questions his 14 year old daughter quickly coming over and sitting on her bed next to her.

“My stomach is really hurting and I don’t know why dad”

Lily whines and groans out the cramps were setting in and of course she didn’t know that’s what they were.

“What does it feel like’

Matt questions trying to understand what he could do to alleviate her stomach pain.

“I don’t know it’s just hurting really really bad’

She huffs out trying not to cry. You hoped that lily wouldn’t inherit your severe cramps like you have when it is your time of the month but that might not be the case and Matt knew how to handle your cramps but that was simply because he was paying attention because he was dating you and married you but it was different when it was his daughter.

“I’m sorry sweetheart maybe try going to the bathroom”

Matt suggests not thinking too much of it as she listens making her way to the bathroom connected to her room. Matt heads downstairs sending you a quick text saying that lily wasn’t feeling too good today and that they would be home mostly all day. He immediately was startled when he heard lily scream for him.

“DADD’

lily exclaims from upstairs. Matt immediately runs upstairs to see what was wrong.

“It’s not the normal color”

She exclaims showing him what appeared to be a toliet paper with a shade of deep red on it.

“Oh my god okay calm down first go throw that away an-“

Matt states simply a little disgusted he witnessed that but quickly got cut off when lily crumbles to the floor sobbing seeing the cramps were starting to hurt more and more.

“Ah I don’t know what to do dad it still hurts”

She sobs out honestly laying in a ball on the floor.

“Uh okay hold on I know let me call mom”

Matt panicks out picking up his phone dialing your number.

“Hello”

He hears you finally speak on the other end of the line.

“Um hey babe so your daughter started her period and she’s freaking out and I don’t know what to do’

Matt rushes out to you in the phone running a panicked hand through his fluffy hair. Of course of all days it happens when you are at work

“Ok um ask her how bad does the cramps hurt from a scale of 1-10 10 being the worst”

You instruct. Mattt immediately following your instruction sits on the floor next to his daughter sobbing uncontrollably.

“Hey lil moms asking on a scale of 1-10 how bad it hurts’

Matt asks his daughter softly combing his fingers through her hair.

“A 11”

She sobs out looking up at matt with tears streaming down her cheeks.

‘She says 11 babe”

Matt replies to you in the phone. You couldn’t help but think of what matt could do to make her more comfortable, knowing the first day is always the worse for girls.

“Okay maybe grab my heating pack and place it on her stomach and see if that helps I know it helps me also make sure you grab some of my tampons for her to use throughout the day’

You suggest before hanging up the call because you were about to go into an appointment as matt quickly gets up to go into your guys master bed room to get just that. He brought it back plugging it up and laying it across his daughter stomach.

“Here leave this here and see if that works sweetheart”

Matt states softly sitting back down on the carpeted floor lifting lily’s head onto his lap as her sobbing starts to slow down feeling the heat on her stomach begin soothe the aching.

What felt like an hour passed by and it appeared that the heating pack was working and that she was able to go back to sleep for a nap but it wasn’t until Matt noticed her face and how it looked like she was trying not to throw up. Although this puzzled Matt because you didn’t throw up or get nauseous when it was your time of month or maybe you did and never told him that could potentially be a factor. Matt shook it off continuing to rest his eyes while he ran his hand through lily’s messy brunette hair.

“Dad-“

Lily softly speak out continuously swallowing not wanting to give into the nauseous feeling just yet.

“I don’t feel so good I feel like I’m going to puke”

Lily chokes out slowly sitting up from Matt’s lap. Matt didn’t know how to respond to his daughter because he never had to encounter this part of a girl’s cycle.. ever. Lily quickly standing up running to the restroom leaning over the toilet gasping preparing her body for the worse because she could feel the nauseous heat rising through her body.

“Oh goodness it’s okay lily bug”

Matt coos as he stands behind her leaning figure pulling her hair out of the way and grabbing the hair tie he always kept on his wrist to tie her hair into a ponytail, a skill he got really good at during your pregnancy with lily when the morning sickness was bad. He always made a habit of keeping hair ties on his wrist for both you and his daughter because you two were always loosing them collectively around the house which lead him to always picking them up and keeping them on him so, whenever you two asked for one, he had them ready knowing it was probably one that you two ended up loosing.

“Dad I-I’m scared”

Lily sobs out as she is still leaning over the toilet almost like she was holding herself back from spilling everything into the toliet. That’s the one thing you both knew about lily, throwing up was something she had an irrational fear of, seeing it, and most importantly when she herself had to do it, terrified her.

“It’s okay just let it out you probably will feel better if you do sweetheart”

He coos out to her and as if on cue lily spills everything in her stomach into the toliet bowl. Matt felt bad that he couldn’t do anything more to help her feel any better. Once she finished, her face appeared pale and colorless, she was really going through it.

It was about 11pm and the whole day it was an off and on struggle of throwing up and cramps, but eventually the nausea did die down to be able to allow lily to fall asleep on the couch. The house was a mess and it just occurred to Matt that she hadn’t been able to eat anything all day because of the nausea and throwing up. Matt lets out a quiet sigh seeing he and lily were on the couch with her head in his lap fast asleep. You finally walk through the door gazing immediately over to the couch to see the exhausted pair.

“Hi”

You quietly greet Matt since he was still awake, leaning over the couch to place a sweet kiss to his lips. Matt hums a greeting to you.

“How is she how’d she do”

You ask sitting down carefully next to Matt on the couch beginning to carefully tread your fingers softly through your daughters brunette hair that she definitely got from Matt color wise.

“It was a struggle but we made it through’

Matt sighs out as he places his free hand on your thighs you currently had tucked next to your body on the couch.

“I meant to text you and let you know that she was throwing up like off and on for the past four hours it was almost like a consistent schedule it was weird so she hasn’t eaten at all today yet because of it”

Matt huffs out leaning his head against the couch head rest.

“No my poor girl”

You sigh out. Lily slowly moves around slightly waking up but not fully yet.

“Is that normal”

Matt asks curious. You look at him with a confused face.

“Is what normal”

You question as you begin to take your free hand and run it through Matt’s messy curls.

“The throwing up like do you have that everytime you are on your period”

Matt asks as you quietly giggle. That was the part of your period you always concealed from Matt because it was simply gross.

“Um yeah”

You trail off trying not to giggle too loudly to wake up lily. Matt’s jaw goes slack at your reply.

“So what you throw up when it is your time of the month”

Matt asks gazing into your brown eyes truly perplexed that he was just now finding out this information about you. You let out a soft giggle and nod your head.

“What no way how come you never told me that every time when I came over to your place when we were dating and it was that time of the month you seemed okay to me other than the cramps”

Matt questions out chuckling slightly.

“Because one I didn’t want you to know”

You trail off as Matt chuckles at your serious expression painted on your face.

“And two I would always plan after or around the first day of my period so you never saw the first day because that day is always the worse no matter what your period is like regularly”

You giggle moving your hand caressing your husbands jaw leaning a pressing a sweet kiss to his lips after. You and matt chuckle into the kiss as lily starts stirring awake, sitting up carefully from Matt’s lap.

“Hey lily girl”

You greet her as she finally realizes your presence since she hasn’t seen you all day.

“Hi mom”

She groans out sleep still evident in her voice as she stands up to go over to the other side of the couch to cuddle into your sitting figure.

“I started my period”

She huffs out as you begin to gently rub your ringed palm up and down her arm comfortingly and also leaving a quick kiss to her temple.

“Dad told me how do you feel”

You ask already knowing the answer.

“Terrible they didn’t talk about this in health class at all”

She replies rolling her eyes. You let out a small chuckle.

“I’m hungry”

She sighs out slowly stretching her aching body from being constricted with severe cramps all day.

“Well what do you have a taste for”

You chuckling knowing that the cravings were bound to kick in.

“I don’t know pizza”

She giggles out a little as Matt rolls his eyes.

“Okay yeah that’s your daughter for sure”

Matt laughs out knowing that you always crave the exact same thing after your first day in previous conversations you two have had.

“Let me guess pepperoni and olives”

Matt questions knowing that those are the exact toppings you would ask for which always appalled him. You quickly smack his arm with your free hand as he laughs at the gesture.

“That sounds really good actually”

You daughter chirps out as Matt and you laugh.

“Okay then let me order it then”

Matt chuckles standing up leaving a kiss onto both of your heads and going to go and grab his phone.

Taglist

@mintsturniolo @spicymuffins03 @ksturnz @ivysturnss @chaoswithus @emely9274 @courta13 @stayingstromboli @wh0resstuff

[lunajay33]

Against the Group

•🐺🩵•

Summary: Klaus was the big bad guy and your friend group wanted to kill him but you had a secret, one that they would forever hate you for, being his soulmate

Pairing: Klaus Mikaelson x f!reader

•Masterlist•

Klaus came into town as the big bad wolf and since everyone is obsessed with Elena and saw she could do no wrong they despised Klaus but the first time I met him was like magic

•flashback•

Everyone was fighting over how to get rid of Klaus I went in a walk through the forest it always relaxed me, hearing branches snap I turn quickly seeing the most magnificent man I’ve ever seen and my heart was light and something snapped within me

“What’s a little bunny like you doing all alone, you know there’s a big bad wolf running around Mystic Falls” his accent did things to me

“And you must be the infamous Klaus, you don’t seem so scary to me, quite lovely actually” he steps forwards until I’m backed up to a tree as he looms over me

“This town might not be so bad after all, found myself a sweet little mate”

•flashback over•

After that he told me everything about werewolves having mates, they’re like soulmates, tied to eachother and he treated me like I was a goddess but we kept it a secret because I didn’t want to others to hate me

I woke up to a knock on the door and there stood Klaus with a bouquet of my favorite flowers

“Come in! What do I owe the pleasure my bad wolf?” He smirks laying the flowers on the table and speeding both of us to my room where magically there are pedals everywhere and candles

“How did you do this?” I ask smiling as he gently lays me down and crawls ontop of me

“You’re a heavy sleeper” he laughs as he kisses down my neck

“I want you Klaus” I gasp when his fangs lightly graze my shoulder

“And you’ll have me my love, for all of eternity”

That night he shows me all the ways he loves me, showing me exactly what I’ve been missing all this time, gasping he rolls over and pulls me to his chest holding me tight

“I love you Klaus”

•

Weeks went by and our secret remained that, a secret except Rebekah and Elijah knew, they took interest in me after they saw how I changed Klaus’s behaviour

Siting on the couch of the Salvatore house with the others scattered about just relaxing for once

“Y/n I have a question?” Tyler asks grabbing the attention of the others

“Yeah what is it Ty?”

“You smell different”

“Excuse me?” My eyes wide

“I just mean, your scent it’s changed like, this is gonna sound weird, but it’s the smell females get when they’re mated” my cheeks become red and I’m a blubbering mess

“OH MY GOD! Y/N WHY DIDNT YOU TELL US WHO IS IT?” Caroline asks super excited knowing i was never with a guys before

“I ummm…..it’s nothing don’t even worry about it” I laugh awkwardly now everyone is crowded around me

“Y/n come on I’ve told you all the details about my first time come on” Elena groans

“I…..I can’t you guys won’t like it” I rub my hands together anxiously as I stand up and try to leave making my way past them and running out the door

“Wait!” Stefan calls out worried but I’m already in my car driving off to the mikaelsons, getting to their door I knock and there my lovely mate stands

“My lovely bunny what’s got your heart littering so fast?” He asks as he takes my hand and brings me inside

“The group were badgering me about who my first time was with, Tyler could smell that I’m “mated” I got flustered and had to get out of there” I sigh plopping down on the couch

“We could always tell them” he smirks as he brushes my hair back

“Let me just try and ease them into it, tell them all the amazing things you do for me, the amazing things you make me feel” I smile laying my head on his chest as he lays us down

“I think I can live with that little bunny now let me take care of you”

•

I wake up to Klaus’s arms around me holding my head to his chest and his other hand around my back

“Klaus wake up…..I have to go I have a doctors appointment” he groans sleepy as he rolls over to make me lay ontop of him

“You promise to come back”

“Of course I always do my love”

I got ready and he walks me to the door, opening it but pulling me back for a moment pulling me into a deep kiss

“Drive safe my angel” he whispers

“What….. the….. hell” I turn to see Damon and Caroline

“I…..can explain”

“Are you…..is he the guy you’re sleeping with?” I look back up at Klaus and he’s smirking which settles me a bit

“Maybe”

“Y/n how could you he’s trying to kill Elena, we’ll all of us for that matter” Caroline whines

“I can’t deal with this right now I have to go to the doctors” I walk past them to my car but Damon speeds infront of me and slams me against my car making me cry in pain

“Damon stop” Damon is flung off me as Klaus lifts me to my feet holding me gently

“Are you okay?” I hold the back of my head and nod

“I’m fine I gotta go to the clinic I’m gonna be late”

“I’ll come with you, make sure you’re okay” I nod and he drives me to the clinic, I check in and we sit in the waiting area

“So why are we here again, I didn’t here anything about you being sick before today”

“I just haven’t been feeling normal, thought I’d check just in case”

“I could just give you some of my blood”

“It’s not something blood can fix” then my name is called and I go in alone, after some test the doctor comes back

“Well the results are in, congrats you’re pregnant!” My heart drops I didn’t know whether to me happy or worried how could I be pregnant

I walk out and Klaus is by my side immediately and walking me to the car

“My love you’re as white as a ghost what did the doctor say”

“Let’s just go back to your place and I’ll tell you” we got back quickly and he speed me to the living room where Rebekah and Elijah we sat

“Y/n you don’t look so good” Rebekah says bringing me a glass of water

“How is this possible I’m so confused”

“Please tell me you’re worrying me”

“I’m pregnant” and they all gasp

“You cheated on me” Klaus yells

“No I swear you know I’ve only ever been with you, maybe…..maybe it’s your wolf side right you’re a wolf first” I say panicked

“She’s right Niklaus you can smell your scent and only you’re on her can’t you” Elijah said as Klaus breathed me in his eyes growing wide

“It’s true, so….this baby is mine” I nod as he settles down

“I’m going by to have a niece or nephew!!” Rebekah chimes in excited

“How will it come out, wolf? Vampire? Human?”

“I guess we will have to see my little bunny”

[leapingbadger]

Chapter 7 - The Offer

Summary: As he recovers from surgery, Hunter tries to find out more about their strange new friend and makes her an offer she can't refuse.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/63246460/chapters/162167857

Hunter heard the whir of the machine first. He could taste the sterile, disinfectant smell of the room in the back of his throat. His body jolted as he was pulled out of the machine. He opened his eyes gingerly. A face swam in front of his vision, but he couldn’t make it out yet, just large eyes and a yellow halo.

“Hunter?” Omega’s voice whispered excitedly.

“Ugh. Yeah Kid. I’m here.” He rasped out, his voice sounding dry.

He blinked his eyes again and Omega came into focus. Her hands hung off the side of the slab, her face so close to his he could count the freckles across her nose.

“Where’s Tech?” he asked, quickly realizing the room was devoid of his brother’s scent.

“He took Crosshair back to the barracks. He hasn’t come back yet.”

Hunter sat up quickly, his vision swimming slightly. He jumped down off the machine and crossed to his armor, “I should go find him.” He said gruffly.

“You can’t, you need to rest.” Omega said, rushing to his side and he swayed slightly.

“I’ll be fine. You should probably get back to where you’re supposed to be.” He said, his hand jolted out to grab the chair in front of him to steady himself.

Omega gently took his elbow and helped guide him into the chair. “I need to bandage your head before you do anything.”

Hunter felt the room swirl and closed his eyes. He heard the light patter of Omega’s feet as she crossed to the med kit and got the needed supplies. She pressed the bandage to his temple a little too aggressively, but he tried not to wince, not wanting to make her feel bad.

“All set,” she said with pride as she stepped away from him. His hand went to his head and felt the bandage and a distinct lack of hair. His brothers would no doubt have a field day with him having a bald spot, but he supposed in this case, it was worth it.

“I think your bandana will cover it,” Omega said, seemingly reading his mind. She unwrapped the red cloth from her wrist and gave it back to him.

He chuckled, “Thanks, Kid.” He said, pulling the bandana up to his forehead, holding the two ends at the back of his head with one hand, the other feeling for the bandage. “I think you’re right. But I’ll get a new one from the barracks. This one’s a little tired anyway. Unless…you want it,” he said, handing it back to her.

She took it excitedly, tied a knot at the ends and wrapped it back around her wrist. Hunter suddenly realized why she looked so familiar. She had the same shape face as Tech when he was a cadet. He was never as scrawny as Crosshair or a broad as Wrecker. If she had goggles, the likeness was uncanny, despite the blonde hair.

She finished twisting the bandana around her wrist like a bracelet, deliberately making sure the white skull was upright and visible.

“Omega, are you safe here?” Hunter found himself asking into the silence, “with Nala Se? Does she…treat you well?”

He and his brothers had a lot of experience with the Kaminoan’s and Nala Se in particular. She wasn’t what he would call warm and didn’t object to questionable experimentation on them when they were cadets. She likely masterminded most of the tests. They had grown used to it, but the older they got and the more they mixed with the regs, the more his squad realized just how brutal their upbringing had been, even by Kaminoan standards. He didn’t want the same to be happening to this young girl.

“Oh, I…I don’t know.” She said at last, her eyes on her feet.

Hunter was weary not to bring up a subject that would upset her but pushed on. “Do you have tests done from time to time?” he asked quietly.

Omega nodded her head slightly, her lower lip wobbling. “Nala Se stays with me though. Sometimes she holds my hand.” She said.

He couldn’t recall Nala se showing him or his brothers such tenderness as they were poked with needles or had electrodes stuck to them.

Hunter took Omega’s hand gently in his and rolled up her sleeves. He had to catch his breath and set his face, so he didn’t outwardly react to the scars and pin pricks on the girls arms. He rolled up her other sleeve only to find the same thing. Omega’s wide eyes were intense as she watched him. He didn’t want her to see the fury bubbling beneath the surface, didn’t want to scare her.

“You’re angry,” she stated firmly.

“Omega, we are going to leave Kamino soon. When all our chips are out. Do you want to come with us? We can try and find somewhere safe and….”

Before he could finish his sentence, the young girl had wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face into his hair. He wasn’t really used to this level of affection. The only person who hugged him was Wrecker and that was usually a full body experience that ended with his feet a foot off the ground.

Hunter patted her back a couple of times as she broke away from him, wiping her nose on her sleeve.

���I’ll take that as a yes,” he said with a smile.

She grinned at him, sniffed and nodded.

Hunter tried to stand again, his feet feeling sturdier underneath him. He finished putting his armor on and pulled his helmet gingerly over his head to avoid disturbing his wound.

“Here, take his,” he said, handing Omega a small, handheld comm. “If you need us, call. We’ll be back here tomorrow night to finish the others.” She nodded with her understanding.

Hunter watched her cross to the door, turning back to give a final wave and broad smile. He smiled back underneath his helmet and raised his hand when he realized she couldn’t see. “See ya, kid.” He said quietly as she looked both ways before racing to the left.

Hunter turned right and took it slowly as he made his way back to the barracks.

“What are you doing here?” Tech hissed as he walked through the door.

“I live here,” Hunter said as he carefully took his helmet off and collapsed into bed, not even bothering to take his armor off.

“I was going to collect you.” He said quietly but aggressively.

“You look a little pinned down,” Hunter said with a chuckle.

Tech was on Crosshair’s bunk, The sniper curled up on his legs like a loth cat. Wrecker and Echo’s snores drifted over the room and the slow tapping of rain on the window made Hunter’s eyes droop.

“I need to scan you before you fall asleep.” Tech said with a huff.

“Then you better be quick.” The Sergeant mumbled; his arms crossed over his stomach.

His brother extracted himself from Crosshair and ran the scanner over Hunter. “You’ve already been bandaged?”

“Omega,” Hunter said, only partially conscious.

“Hmm. She is…unique,” Tech said.

Hunter tried to nod but didn’t quite manage it as sleep took him. There were a lot of things he needed to talk to his brothers about, Omega being the most important. But they would have to wait until tomorrow.

***

“You did what?” Crosshair hissed.

Tech, Echo and Wrecker’s heads swiveled to the formerly hushed conversation in front of Crosshair’s bunk.

“I think he’s a clone, Cross. We can’t leave her here. It’s not safe.” Hunter said in a low, firm voice. His head still throbbed from last night’s surgery, and he resisted the urge to cradle it.

“And you didn’t think to ask the rest of us?” Crosshair rose from his bed, gesturing for the others to join them. “Do you believe this?” he directed at Tech.

“I assume you a referring to the new…erm…development with Omega?” Tech said as Crosshair scowled in response. “Hunter’s observations regarding her seem cogent and well thought out. I will do my own research to verify, but if accurate, I don’t know how there could be any other course of action.” He said.

Crosshair threw his hands up in the air and turned away from his brothers.

“We were only apart for a few hours. I can’t believe you adopted another kid already,” Wrecker said with a chortle.

Hunter sighed, “I didn’t adopt her, Wreck. I just…”

“How many is this now?” Wrecker continued unperturbed.

“This is a common occurrence?” Echo asked with a smile on his face.

“Well, there was the lost child on Felucia,” Tech interjected, “and Caleb, of course,”

“Fellas, I…” Hunter tried to cut in.

“That injured twi’lek baby. He ran five clicks to get her medical attention.” Wrecker supplied.

“I know there is another, but I can’t recall…let me check my notes,” Tech said, typing furiously into his datapad.

“Oh, and Echo,” Wrecker said with a laugh, throwing Lula at his newest brother.

“Okay, that’s enough.” Hunter said, his head throbbing a little, “Besides, Cross adopted Echo first.” he added, shooting a narrow-eyed look at the sniper.

“I believe even Cody refers to you as the bleeding heart, on occasion, despite your being his favorite.” Tech said with an amused grin.

Hunter’s eyes went wide at the mention of his older brother. “Cody. Do you think he executed the order?”

Tech, Echo and Wrecker exchanged glances all the joy suddenly evaporating from the room, “it is likely he was effected by the order, yes.” Tech said sadly.

“Is General Kenobi dead?” Echo asked.

The silence was thick in the room as Tech checked his datapad.

“Uncertain,” he said at last. “He is listed as missing.”

“But Cody loves Kenobi! He’d never hurt him.” Wrecker said, his brow furrowed

“We’ve seen clearly the effects of the chip, Wrecker. He wouldn’t have had a choice.” Tech said impatiently, “Just like Crosshair didn’t have a choice.”

Crosshair shrank in on himself as the eyes of his brothers fell on him.

“Well, soon we won’t have to worry about it. We’ll all have our chips out and,” Hunter paused mid-sentence, his eyebrow raised as he looked to the door. “someone’s coming,”

The brothers froze, it was unusual for anyone to contact them in their barracks. There was a faint knock at the door.

“That’s never happened before,” Wrecker whispered.

“Um. Enter.” Tech said.

The door slid open ans the brothers all lowered their heads as the person standing in the doorframe was half the size they were expecting.

“Hello,” Omega said with her sunny smile and bright eyes.

Hunter relaxed and went to greet her, “hey, kid.” He said kindly, putting his hand around her shoulder to steer her inside and close the door quickly behind her.

“You should not be here, Omega.” Tech said firmly. “It could draw too much suspicion.”

Omega had wandered away from Hunter and was currently examining the board to the right of the entrance. Her fingers traced the carved tallies before moving around the room. She gazed at Tech’s projects on the central table, wound her way around the brothers who were still frozen to the spot.

“Nala Se is in meetings all morning. She won’t know I’m missing,” the girl said, coming upon Wrecker’s tooka doll and hesitating as she reached for it.

“Go on, Kid. You’re welcome to look at her,” the bruiser said, crossing to her and kneeling down so he could get closer to her level. “Her name’s Lula.” He said as he handed the doll to her. Her little finger traced the dolls long ears before pulling her close and hugging her under her chin.

“She’s amazing,” Omega said to Wrecker, relinquishing the doll and offering it back to him, “You can hang on to her while you’re here.” He said with a smile.

“Omega, this is Wrecker. And Echo is over there,” Hunter said, pointing to a bemused looking Echo who wasn’t really sure what was going on.

Omega waved at both of them, though she clearly knew who they were like she had known Hunter, Crosshair, and Tech the night before.

Omega tucked Lula under her arm and continued her examination of the barracks. She closed in on Hunter’s footlocker, opening it before he could protest and taking out a holopicture he had stuffed inside.

“When was this taken?” She asked as Hunter came to sit on his bunk next to her.

“A few weeks after Echo joined,” Hunter said.

Wrecker came over and took the picture from her, “It’s still weird to see you without your goggles, Tech” Wrecker said with a laugh.

“Yes, well if you hadn’t sat on them, I would have been wearing them,” he said without taking his eyes of his datapad.

“Are you feeling better?” She asked Hunter, suddenly concerned.

Hunter’s hand automatically went to the side of his head, “Ah, yeah. Fine. Is that why you came? To check up on us?”

Omega looked guilty but moved to the other side of the room and to Crosshair, who was still sulking in a corner, “no, not exactly. I overheard one of those imperials talking to Nala Se. He doesn’t like clones. He’s planning a test in the training room…”

“Yes, we are required to attend this morning.” Tech said and he typed furiously into his dadapad.

“You can’t, it’s dangerous” Omega said, her eyes wide and fearful.

“We’ve done hundreds of tests, Kid. It’s nothing to worry about,” Hunter replied with a shrug.

“These ones are different,” Omega said. “Please, don’t go.”

“If we don’t go, they will come looking for us.” Crosshair hissed.

Omega shrank away from Crosshair’s withering look and came to stand next to Echo at the central table. Echo gave her a reassuring smile and she happily settled into the seat next to him, watching as the brothers continued their conversation.

“Perhaps we should be cautious.” Tech said, finally putting his datapad down. “Omega, do you know what these tests entail?”

Omega shook her head, “The imperial didn’t say. He was planning on sending you on a mission, but you were late. Another team went instead, but he wasn’t happy with the result.”

“Why not?” Tech asked.

“They didn’t come back.” Omega said.

The brothers shared an unspoken look.

“Omega, do you know the name of the imperial?” Echo asked, his eyebrows knitted together in concern.

“Not really. Something like Tar…Tarful…Tar..din…”

“Tarkin?” Echo asked, his amber eyes wide.

“Yeah, I think so.” She said.

“Is that the same Tarkin from the Citadel rescue where you were…” Tech started

“Blown up?” Wrecker supplied.

“And turned into that?” Crosshair sniped, jabbing his toothpick at his new brother for emphasis.

Omega scowled at Crosshair.

Echo nodded solemnly, “Yes. And he has never liked clones,” he said, looking directly at Hunter.

Hunter let out a deep sigh. “Okay, Kid. We’ll be careful. We promise,” he said.

[artsninspo]

007 | Richmond Inc.

「 ✦ full library & archive ✦ 」

「 ✦ aaron pierre & characters library ✦ 」

⇚ 006

♠ summary: Lorence navigates the high-stakes world of elite private security under her enigmatic boss, Terry Richmond. But when Terry’s watchful gaze turns unexpectedly intimate, the tension between them ignites—blurring the lines. This ones fluffy 🧸.

♠ pairing: Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre - Rebel Ridge) X Lorence Cole (Black Fem OC)

♠ word-count: ~3.2K

⌖ - Monte Carlo, Monaco

I’ve never flown private before, nor have I ever been on such a lively flight. The champagne flows freely, and the chatter is so loud I crank my headphones to maximum volume just to drown it out. The last time I was aboard a plane, I was tossing back flutes of champagne to numb the sting of losing my job. Weeks later, I’m flying private at an elevated position—my new reality. Unlike my more seasoned colleagues, I’m more unnerved than excited.

I check the ETA on one of the screens and go over the expected hotel arrival time, counting down the hours until the big race is over and I can finally relax. I take out my tablet, reviewing my plans for what feels like the hundredth time, searching for any holes in my outline. I replay the live feeds at an accelerated speed, scanning for anything that could derail my emergency plans.

“Lorence.”

Cassandra smiles, placing a flute of champagne in front of me.

“Cassandra.”

She folds her arms, giving me a knowing look.

“Please tell me you're talking to someone handsome and not reviewing your plans again.”

“I’m talking to someone handsome,” I reply, telling her what she wants to hear. She sighs, satisfied.

“Emergencies almost never happen, and you’ve planned for so many types—it’ll be fine.”

“Well, partying isn't going to help my nerves,” I explain.

“You’re almost as bad as Terry.” She powers off my tablet and takes the open seat beside me.

“Now I’m insulted.”

She giggles, leaning in conspiratorially.

“Also, never suggest staggered flights for operatives again. Your extra effort is already making you unpopular with the weaker links.”

“Unpopular? As if I have the boss’s ear or give a flying fuck.”

“That’s the spirit.” She nudges me playfully. “It wasn’t the majority, but Emerson tried to stir up trouble. Richmond shut it down quickly. That weasel is always looking for a win. Must’ve heard there’s no warmth between you and Terry.”

“The blind know that.”

“Good thing my mouth isn't big. Cause that suit try-on definitely was more Dubai heat than Antarctica frigid.”

I give her a warning look, but she only squeaks, enjoying my discomfort.

“I’m glad you're amused.”

“Ladies.”

Emerson approaches with a drink in hand and that cavalier smile. He’s one of the company’s top ten most attractive male directors—probably the best-looking among the single ones.

“Emerson.” Cassandra acknowledges him, but his attention shifts to me.

“Lorence, why don’t you come mingle with the rest of us?”

I blink, caught off guard. The only colleague I’m on a first-name basis with is Cassandra. I’ve known Joel long enough to consider him more of a friend.

“I’m a nervous flyer. I’m fine here with my headphones and Gordon.”

“Cassandra didn’t tell you we use first names?”

“Not everyone. It’s Cole's choice.” Cassandra interjects quickly, sensing my discomfort. “Cole, what would you like to be called?”

“Cole.”

“Cole it is.” Emerson forces a smile. “You make your friends call you Cole?”

“I didn't realize the two of you were friends.” Cassandra leans in with a smirk.

“I’m friends with all of my colleagues.”

“Hmm.” Cassandra’s brow raises with condescension.

“Well, Cole, we’ll chat once we touchdown.” Emerson flashes another smile before returning to the back of the plane.

“What was that?” I ask, narrowing my eyes.

“Emerson and I may or may not have had a few rendezvous. It also may have ended badly.” she shrugs.

I’m not surprised.

“How did it end badly - hypothetically?” I ask.

“I felt like he was trying to use me to get on Terry’s good side, and when that didn’t work, suddenly Terry and I were too close. Blah, blah, blah. I know how much he makes, and it is NOT enough to afford me full time. So I went cold. Hypothetically.”

Cassandra shrugs, completely unbothered.

“Don’t hmm me. We’re all gorgeous—you’re the only one who hasn't dipped in the office pot.”

We spend the rest of the flight gossiping about who’s been with who, and I’m astounded by the level of secrecy and professionalism. Five office flings had gone entirely under my radar. When the party dies down I turn back on my music and relax dozing off a little. I’ve memorized my routes down to the detail and the timing windows play in my subconscious in a loop. 

When the party dies down, I finally drift off, my subconscious looping the timing windows of my routes. Twenty minutes until clearance, an hour until our clients are safe. I wake with the sun warming the Mediterranean coastline below.

The weight of my responsibilities dampens any excitement. The drive to our accommodations is short, and I snap photos for my parents. The group dinner is the last thing I want to attend, but the chefs' live show and five-star cuisine prove to be a welcome distraction. Afterward, I slip away to the terrace with a glass of wine in hand.

“Still going over the routes?” Richmond’s voice cuts through the night air. I know it’s him by the shift in energy.

“Yeah” I respond.

“If you don't trust yourself—and you should—you should trust the agents on the ground, the drivers, the armed agents, helicopters, and tech. And if you don't trust all that, there's still the local PD, Fire, EMS... and human nature. After that, it's an act of God, and none of us can contend with that.”

I exhale slowly.

“I just don’t want anything to go wrong.”

“When something goes wrong tomorrow, it won’t be because of you.”

“When?”

“When. It's inevitable.” His confidence is oddly reassuring, though I know better than to assign sentimentality to Richmond. “One of our clients could get wasted, fall over and break their nose, or have food poisoning, require medical attention or be robbed by hookers they’ve hired or local thieves. Something happens here every single year. Transport’s never been an issue and no one has approached it like you have” he says.

I nod, sighing deeply. “That’s some peace of mind.”

“It’s not flattery, it's the truth,” he responds.

“Has to be, flattery seems highly unlikely” I confess. “Maybe now I understand why you’re always so uptight - this is a lot on someone’s shoulders” I sigh looking back down into the city. I swear he snickers but by the time the lights flicker on above us signaling night is here it's gone from his expression.

“I’m the last person you need to worry about,” he says. Looking him over I concur - he’s probably experienced things my nightmares would have trouble conceiving of.

“So if it isn't stress then what is it? Just your natural disposition?” I ask looking away just in case his face shows disapproval.

“I can never tell if you're joking” he responds unappreciative of my sarcasm. The feeling is mutual, I can never read him either. There are too many things at play, this sizzling tension between us born of disdain, or misunderstanding, or the unbalanced power dynamic. His resistance to letting his guard down. Smiling, small talk, pleasantries or being kind. The silence lingers mostly because none of my responses are safe and could put us back at odds. “I’m not uptight,” he says finally.

“Pigs fly. Now we’re both lying” I remark.

“I’m not uptight, I’m what my position requires of me as the lead, founder and CEO” he explains. 

“Look, I'd better get some rest. I'm a mess of nerves and we already don’t get along well” I sigh, not wanting to get into it with him. He smirks this time.

“You’ll toss and turn all night if you head in now. Why don’t you change into something more comfortable and meet me in the lobby in ten?” he says, stopping me in my tracks. He looks harmless when he smiles. It withdraws into his usual disposition and when I turn Emerson is walking up behind me.

“Ok” I agree and he nods giving me a half smile that I know Emerson sees. I wonder if it’s to get my blood out of shark infested waters.

“Emerson” I nod, taking leave. I slip my heels back on once I'm off of the grassy terrace and head in. There’s a sprinkling of people, less than half of those who were at dinner. I head to my room and look myself over. I curse Cassandra when all of the outfits I have packed are transitional, appropriate for the beach, boat, dinner and anything else that may arise in a place like this. Blowing out a deep breath I opt for a black maxi dress. I grab a small purse and fill it with necessities. My reflection is date worthy, not following your boss around appropriate. I tie a scarf around my purse just in case it gets cool. When I arrive in the lobby Richmond is checking his watch and stands up like I've stood him up. He’s changed too into something more relaxed. 

“Sorry I’m late” I tell him once I've crossed the room. His eyes scan over me, his tense demeanour has returned.  “Am I dressed okay?” I ask.

“Fine” he nods. “I just thought we’d take a walk, go over your routes in person, put your mind at ease, tire the body, help you rest” he explains and it is such a simple approach I wonder why I haven't thought of it.

“I can walk in this” I nod and he leads the way. We walk alongside each other. It takes us about ten minutes to make it to the primary route we decided on. “Cassandra said, always look better than you need to while in Monaco” I tell him when the silence has stretched too long.

“That’s what that bill was about” he mutters to himself shaking his head. “I dont think you and Cassandra have the same objectives”

“I don't follow”

“Cassandra likes causing a stir and hooking big fish” he says without condescension or condemnation in his tone as we walk. “Wherever we go” he adds, making a left. I see he’s memorized the route as well as I have.

“I bet she’s a great decoy” I think out loud.

“She is,” he nods, leading us onto the main road. It’s brighter along this path, I smell food and hear music and chatter which is a good sign. We pass souvenir shops, restaurants, boutiques and tourists. There’s so much to see, it's distracting and I don't remember the last time I was in Europe so carefree. I take pictures of postcards and restaurants and send them to my parents. My mom will tell me what to try and my dad will tell me what cheesy thing they want.

“So, are you and your parents very close?” Richmond asks and I realize he has a birds eye view into my phone and no boundaries.

“Yeah” I nod. “They love to travel and my mom runs a food blog” I explain my actions.

“I’ve seen the food blog - she’s very good,” he remarks. Of course he has.

“She’d be happy to hear that” I say with a smile.

“How’d she get into it?” he asks.

“She had an empty nest, she put everything on hold to be a mom and wife. She retired early and I told her to go. It was like we both went to college together. She’s always been great but since it started she’s really happy.” I reflect feeling calmer at the thought of my folks. 

“We have contacts and so many unused vouchers, tickets, everything. You should ask Cassandra and use them up. Go with them too.” he says giving unconventional advice for a boss.

“Are your parents still around?” I ask and he tenses.

“My mom passed. Pops is still around. He’s married to Cassandra’s mom” Richmond says and it's a shock at first then it makes sense. “I was sure she told you.”

“She didn’t and I’m sorry about your mom” I respond he nods.

“It  was a long time ago,” he says. We approach a live band and he guides me in front of him. “Hold your purse close, it's a distraction for pickpockets” he explains, keeping me close until we’re out the crowd. We’re lower down now and closer to the water at one of the intersections I thought would have the most trouble. I assess it quickly before relaxing into my decisions.

“So is this what you recommend before a big gig?” I ask.

“No, I don't advise you to walk around at night in a foreign country,” he says.

“Now it's you who needs faith. We go through too much training to not be fine anywhere in the world that isn't war torn.” I remind him crossing the road. 

“If the richest men in the world need protection, what makes you think you're above danger?” he asks.

“I don’t think I’m above anything, I just dont think danger is likely.”

“You’re naive,” he comments.

“You're a pessimist” I respond.

“Realist. Men jeopardise their livelihoods and lives all around the world for women and sometimes men. Being alone at night is an unnecessary risk” he says, sounding like my father. When we make it to the beach the sound of the ocean is calming.

“Can we stay awhile?” I ask and he nods. I step onto the sand. My dress is too long so I take down my hair and use my hair tie to hike it up to my knees. There’s a breeze in the air but after all that walking it's not too chilly. My nerves are worlds better. I find a spot and sit down, feeling safe. I close my eyes and block out everything aside from the sound of the waves crashing and crackling sea foam. The air shifts and I catch Richmonds cologne as he sits beside me. I can feel his eyes on me but I keep mine closed. He probably thinks I’m crazy, maybe even too trusting given our history but I don't open my eyes until I'm ready. When I do his eyes are on me.

“Jameson told me you dont value your life” he says and I scoff.

“You can't care too much about yours if you joined the military” I shoot back.

“My father was decorated, he had me in mixed martial arts since I was five. I can take care of myself”

“So we have daddy to thank for this personality” I jest and he shakes his head instead of silencing me with a look.

“You really don't like it” he says, looking up at the sky.

“No I don’t, this is the most normal you’ve ever been with me since we met” I tell him.

“I’ve tried but you’re always running”

“Why were you so mean that first day?” I ask.

“It’s complicated,” he says, hardening.

“More complicated than using my trauma as a test?” I ask and he sighs.

“That wasn't my idea to push you and yes, that complicated” he affirms. “I was in a bad state, looked my worst and I found out my new recruit Lorence Cole is a woman,” he explains. 

“That’s a sexist admission”

“No. You’re my type Lorence. Cassandra knew that and didn’t tell me ahead of time. I was upset with her to make a point and short with you” he confesses and the way my cheeks burn im thankful for the nights forgiving lighting. Not was, not one of my preferences, you’re present tense my type.

“The next time your type walks in, try being kind. Most women don't like being barked at, frowned at, scolded. Do I need to continue?” I ask.

“I get the picture” he nods. Then there’s laughter down the beach and I see people laughing around a photograph.

“We should go see” I suggest getting up. I pat the sand off my dress and we make our way over to see caricature artists seated. 

“Come on, beautiful couple,” One of the women artists say.

“I don't want to” Richmond says motioning for me to sit alone.

“Not my boyfriend's bodyguard” I tell the woman in french and she smiles. Mischief lights in her eyes and I smile bracing for the worst.

“First time in Monaco?” she asks with a thick accent.

“Yes”

“Welcome! here for the races?” she asks.

“Yeah, a few friends wanted to check it out” I explain using my cover story and she continues drawing.

“Are you famous?” she asks.

“No” I laugh.

“Then why bodyguard?” she asks.

“He’s a friend who didn't want me out walking alone” I explain in french and she nods complimenting my speaking ability. I sit for another ten minutes and she stands finished. They count me down and when I get the photo I have to stop myself from laughing. I fold the photo immediately as the other artists cackle and pray Richmond hasn't seen it. If he didn't speak French too I’m sure he’d think I put her up to it. We leave the beach heading back on the path back to the accommodation when Richmond snatches it from my hand as I let my dress back down. He gets a full look of the photo of me looking like an angel in caricature form while he looks like an angry muscle man with ears so big they span to the margins. I giggle and he gives me a look of warning handing the drawing back. I’m surprised he doesn't rip it into pieces.

“Aside from the ears it's an accurate depiction of how scary your scowl is” I joke.

“Good to know” he mutters, the streets are more lively now and the party crowds are out. Leading the way gets too challenging. Richmond holds his hand back and I take it following him through the crows he can see over. He's a gentle guide parting the crowd for me with his size. My brain starts to run away with the information I’ve learned aided by the hand holding and a replay of the past few weeks. My realization shouldn't be as charming as it is. Richmond the decorated veteran and impeccably polished CEO has a crush … on me? He’s not to be played with, tall, handsome, well off ….. My boss. My thoughts hit a roadblock there. The uphill trek starts to become a battle and he crosses the street finding a cab stand. His French is impeccable as he orders us a cab barely fitting in the small European car with me. I get my hand back and find myself missing the contact. The ride back to the accommodation is short. When RIchmond and I clear the lobby he’s right I’m no longer worried about tomorrow or my work. This elevator ride is far less tense than last trip. 

“Thanks for walking me through my route” I tell him as he walks me from the elevator to my door. 

“No problem” he nods. “Last call is at noon if you want to see the parade and the royals otherwise you can leave at two” he reminds me of the schedule. I check my watch and see I have a lot of beauty rest to catch up on.

“Sounds good.” I nod heading in my room. I stop turning to face him. “Why don’t we start fresh tomorrow? My type is nice” I tell him and he gives me his first genuine smile.

“I’ll see you tomorrow Cole” 

“Good night Richmond.” I smile, shutting the door. I call Sin thankful for time differences and we talk for an hour about what it all means before I fall asleep.

Authors note: thanks for reading loves. things are heading up and these interactions are getting more and more fun to write. Are we here for the new developments?

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[uchiha-gaeshi]

I would never wish growing up in a hyper religious African house on my worst enemy. The cognitive dissonance is insane especially if you grow up in the West yet your family (and other African families around you) insist on clinging on to asinine “traditions” that are really just covers for abuse.

[pennyserenade]

i am the way i am because my family not only allowed me to be so incredibly weird about the things i cared about, but encouraged them. when i was five and discovered that the love of my life was zac efron, my mother bought me a backpack with his face on it so i could attend kindergarten with it. she also bought me a subscription to those teen magazines because he was in them a lot. when i liked wrestling, my great grandmother would watch it every monday night, and my mother bought me everything: shirts, tickets to live matches, action figures. everything. when i liked the beatles, every single one of my family members would gift me beatles stuff, and when i was 17 my mother took me on vacation to san francisco just so i could visit the park george harrison went to in 1967. there’s literally no way in hell i was ever going to grow up to be even mildly embarrassed about being passionate