#and the subtle change in energy - but no less intimate - as The Fix stumbles in bleeding with a broken leg?????
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The truly bizarre homoeroticism of noir comedy PI Hunch Curio carrying the unconscious body of Dan Fucks into his dim, smoky office and using frozen steaks and whiskey to tend to his wounds????? the raw intimacy of Dan waking up to Hunch stabbing him in the chest with a comically large syringe and thinking he's in heaven?????????? I am a changed man.
#i dont know why but I'm like ACTUALLY overwhelmed#dropout tv#dimension 20#mentopolis#idk what it is but mike trapp and freddie wong are masters of the craft lmao#and the subtle change in energy - but no less intimate - as The Fix stumbles in bleeding with a broken leg?????#hank green is just as masterful as the rest of them!!
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Untethered (Bonus II) ăBonus Iă
For the first time in his life, XL feels like he can speak without the pressures and expectations of being a prince weighing down on his shoulders. He watches his facial expressions in the mirror as he rambles about the various meetings he had for the day. The subtle dancing of his eyebrows, rapid blinking of his eyes, and pinched corners of his lipsâall indicative of how animated he is when summarizing his duties that seemed more like work than anything else.
The fact that HC is here, brushing his hair, and listening with occasional intrigued hums make XL reinvigorated as his role as prince. Despite the demanding energy, control, and fairness the role takes, XL is incredibly grateful for the privilege and promises himself to continue to fulfill this purpose to the best of his abilities.
So far, XL believes heâs done a sufficient job, preparing to ascend to the throne. After hearing him speak, he secretly hopes HC thinks so too.
âAh, San Lang, thank you for kindly tending to my hair. It looks wonderful,â XL says once he feels the final knots come undone by HCâs broad strokes.
âOf course it looks wonderful. It is His Highness, after all,â the pirate captain comments smoothly. XL canât help but smile at the compliment.
HC goes to place the comb back on the vanity. He switches it out for a short ribbon that shimmers silver when hit by the moonlight.
âAllow me to do one more thing,â HC adds. He gathers all of XLâs hair to fall behind his shoulders, the strands still a bit damp. With practiced movements, HC parts the princeâs hair into three sections, then begins braiding the pieces into a thick, tight section.
XL licks his lips in anticipation. Though heâs had his hair styled a thousand times before, this is HC who currently braids his long locks, a gesture that seems a bit intimate.
Not that you mind, XL briefly thinks.
âHow have the last few weeks treated San Lang?â He asks, reminding HC of his promise to talk about his days on the ocean. HC pulls the pieces of hair tighter, focused on creating a simple yet consistent and neat braided pattern for the prince.
âTroublesome. Thereâs a new pirate ship we have encountered several times. They said they want to challenge us for our water territories, which is a load of shit because the sea belongs to no one,â HC spits out heatedly. His tone is harsh but his touch is gentle as ever. âI honestly think the captain wants to mess with me. Make me question my reign as the âmost feared, ruthless, and violent pirate to sail the waters.ââ
âOh. I see,â XL says hesitantly. Heâs not very familiar with the inside knowledge of pirate ways and society other than what is generalized by the public. And the palaceâs gossip, of course.
Suddenly, a rush of hot air tickles XLâs ear. XL locks eyes with HC through the mirror, heart stuttering at the dark, hungry look in the pirateâs eye.
âWhat does His Highness think?â
âThink about what?â
âMy reputation. Does the real thing live up to your imagination?â HC questions with a sly smirk, quickly tying the ribbon at the end of the braid, then moving it to fall over XLâs right shoulder. XL only has a few seconds to marvel at the stunning handiwork before HC leans forward even more, urging XL to turn toward him, their faces mere centimeters apart.
The pirate captain smells like manly musk mixed in with the ocean breeze. XL nervously gulps.
âI- um,â XL starts, feeling his face heat up. âHmm, maybe not entirely...â
HCâs eye slowly flits down XLâs face. XL remains still, mentally kicking himself for wondering what it would feel like to close the small gap and-
âFair enough,â HC remarks, pulling away, leaving a rush of air in his wake. âI suppose Iâm not the madman people say I am. After all, His Highness wouldnât have let me into his room otherwise, no?â
Something hot burns inside XLâs gut. He had to let HC in! If the pirate were discovered by the palace guards, heâd be imprisoned indefinitely for sure! XL was simply doing an act of service for HC...nothing too outrageous like HC implied.
Nope, none at all.
âYouâre blushing.â
âSan Lang better take a good look around lest this is the only time I invite him into my room,â XL huffs out, resolutely facing forward and avoiding HCâs penetrating gaze.
âForgive me, Your Highness. I was simply teasing,â HC says, though he doesnât sound all that apologetic. âA prince like you must have many admirers to choose from. I shall not take this privilege for granted.â
âAdmirers? Where on Earth did you get that from?â XL asks, appalled. He hasnât taken interest in any of the brides his father provided, much less traveled to other kingdoms in a serious pursuit to find one to marry.
âIs there not a ball happening this coming week? For you to choose a suitable woman to become your queen?â HC inquiries nonchalantly. He tucks a rogue curl behind XLâs ear, the prince subtly leaning into the touch.
XL whips around in astonishment, braid flying to his other shoulder.
âHow did you know!?â
âI have ears on land, my prince. Even when Iâm out sailing the sea,â HC says. âWe have also passed numerous royal ships carrying your guests for the celebration.â
XL wilts in his seat.
Itâs not much of a celebration if XL hadnât wanted to host an engagement ball in the first place. Years of his fatherâs insistent pushing have led to more frequent gatherings with other royalty in hopes that XL finds a fiancĂ©.
Unlike his parents, XL wasnât betrothed from a young age. Furthermore, he hasnât expressed  any interest in marriage even once becoming an adult.
(âYour mother and I were married at twenty. You, my son, are already twenty-two,â the king always said. âYou should quickly find a princess who catches your eye. The sooner you get yourself a wife, the sooner she will start learning her duties as queen.â)
XL has successfully put off marriage for a couple of years, deferring to his rigorous training schedule and duties as prince as an excuse. Fortunately, his mother is willing to let XL take his time, as the king isnât set to retire anytime soon. After all, XL learning his responsibilities as king is the most important task.
HC instantly notices XLâs deflated expression. He attempts to backpedal.
âI had no right to bring that up. If this is something Gege does not want to discuss, then, by all means, he may change the subject,â HC says quietly. Respectfully.
âNo. It is fine. It is by no means a secret at all. The ball has been scheduled for weeks now,â XL murmurs while looking at his bare feet. He fiddles with the long braid, smoothing over the tightly wrapped strands absent-mindedly. âIâm not actively looking for a wife or anything. At least, I donât want to...â
âYour Highness-â
âSan Lang.â
HCâs mouth snaps shut. He straightens his back with his shoulders set square, standing at attention in front of the Prince of Xianle.
âCould you do something for me? A small favor, if you will.â
âAnything,â HC immediately answers.
XL subconsciously chews on his lower lip, a habit that his closest friend SQX reprimands him for doing because it tears up both the old and healing skin. Easy to overdo, not a quick fix, SQX claims.
XL rises to his feet. He holds his hand out to the pirate, palm facing upwards.
Whereâs My Love â SYML
âWill you dance with me?â
âIâm afraid gege will be sorely disappointed with this oneâs lack of skill,â HC says as a matter-of-fact, but he doesnât hesitate to accept XLâs hand, his long fingers blanketing XLâs own.
The princeâs heart skips a beat as the pirate pulls him close until their chests almost touch. XL feels small; HCâs heeled boots to XLâs bare feet exaggerate their height difference, XL only coming up to HCâs chest.
XL feels small but strangely, he wouldnât want it any other way.
âSan Lang needs only to follow my lead,â XL says, looking up with a smile. He properly intertwines their left and right hands, then places HCâs other hand on his shoulder. Finally, XL goes to hold the pirateâs waist, the thin fabric giving way to the hard muscle underneath.
âGege must have danced with a lot of pretty women before,â HC muses, moving his feet as XL slowly guides him into a waltz. XL hopes it isnât just him imagining a slow, romantic piece to harmonize their movements.
âIs San Lang jealous?â XL asks without thinking.
Goodness, did those words seriously just come out of his mouth? Other than his eyes widening in slight horror, XL schools his face into a calm expression, not wanting to seem conceited or even desperate.
HC peers down with a lazy smirk, almost crowding into the prince as they turn to dance in a circle. Despite XLâs effort to appear unfazed by the prospect of HC envying those whoâve had the opportunity to dance with the Prince of Xianle, the pirate still catches the hopeful flicker of XLâs eyelashes.
âA little bit. Though in a way, Iâve had my fair share of dances with Gege myself,â HC states proudly, referring back to their previous sparring sessions. The break in focus has HC stumbling over his feet, prompting XL to squeeze his waist as a reprimand to concentrate.
âAh, yes. San Langâs skill is undeniable in that aspect,â XL says, laughing. âHeâs also the first and only man Iâve danced ever with.â
âWhat an honor,â HC purrs out, and then he lowers XL into an abrupt dip, holding the prince by his hip and upper back.
XLâs breath hitches, wondering how they seamlessly switched positions. HC tenderly stares down at the prince, a twinkle dimly reflecting in his left eye.
âSan Lang...â XL whispers, clutching onto HCâs shoulders. His long braid feels heavy like rope where it hangs down, nearly touching the ground.
âYour Highness.â
Their faces are millimeters apart, skimming each otherâs noses. Theyâve never been this close before, especially not in the absence of any sort of weapon. No one besides the king and queen, palace servants, and bodyguards are even allowed to touch the prince.
Now here he is, in the arms of the infamous Crimson Rain, on the verge of letting himself want.
Tentatively, XL licks his lips before asking, âWhy do you always come back?â
âGege knows this answer too,â HC solemnly says.
XL tilts his chin up, eyelids starting to lower.
âI come back for you, my dear Prince.â
As HC leans downâstill supporting XLâs weightâXL meets him halfway for their first proper kiss, alone together in the princeâs room where the pale moonlight spills through the balcony doors. Itâs a light and airy peck, one that ends way too soon for XLâs liking.
When they pull apart, HC stands XL back up. The pirate notices XLâs robe has slid off one shoulder. He goes to pull it back up but XL quickly grasps his jaw for another kiss instead.
They part again.
âJust...one more-â XL breathes out, adrenaline coursing through his veins. HCâs lips are warm and firm, easily pliable as they press deliciously against XLâs own. â...one more.â
HC gladly obliges.
Their kisses gradually pick up in pace, HCâs hands respectively exploring the span of XLâs back, his hips, and sides. XL eagerly pulls HC over to the edge of his bed, spinning them around so he can climb onto the pirateâs lap.
HC groans low in his throat, comfortably looping his arms around XLâs waist.
At this point, all of XLâs reservations have been cast aside and heâs going to act on the desires concerning a certain pirate that have been taunting him for months now, damn it.
XL surges forward with a force that knocks HC back against the soft mattress.
âYour Highness,â HC growls between kisses, still trying to cover up XLâs shoulder, and now his chest where the robe is loose enough to reveal noticeable cleavage. XL shifts a bit to align their hips, unintentionally rubbing against HC. âShit-â
âHua Cheng-â XL hums, belatedly realizing his slip up. HC nips at his lip for his mistake.
âSan L-lang,â XL mewls like the starved for affection prince that he is. HCâs tongue darts out to swipe across XLâs upper lip. Then, his lower lip.
XL naturally opens up for him, gasping as HCâs hot tongue licks inside his mouth with a dominance that consumes XL. The more XL lets his lust cloud his movement, the faster he feels himself harden.
When XLâs hands brush along HCâs hair, they accidentally graze onto his eyepatch. HC grunts in surprise, which has XL springing back as the situation of the last five minutes dawns upon him.
He sits up on HCâs thighs, placing his palms on the pirateâs chest. Underneath him, HC is a gorgeous visionâthick, wavy hair splayed out on XLâs pillow, lips swollen and spit-slicked.
âOh my- oh my lord,â XL chokes out, completely breathless. âWas- was that t-too much?â
âNot at all, Your Highness,â HC replies with a rogue-ish smirk. âCome here.â
HC embraces his prince with long arms, squeezing tightly and pressing a series of kisses to the top of XLâs head. XL hesitantly rests his cheek on HCâs sternum, aware of how close their bodies are pressed together.
âWho knew Gege could kiss like that?â
âLike what?â XL questions petulantly.
âLike a shameless minx,â the pirate captain answers, chuckling when XL whines at the implication.
âIâve wanted to do that for a long time,â XL shyly admits.
âMe too,â HC murmurs. XL lifts his head, crosses his arms on HCâs chest, then sets his chin on them. âSince the moment I saw you sitting alone at the pub.â
âYou wanted to kiss the crown prince at first sight?â XL asks, pretending to be scandalized. HC kisses the tip of XLâs nose. XL scrunches it up in response.
âHmm, my prince now.â
âWell, your prince would very much like it if San Lang stays the night.â
âI must be back at the harbor before dawn,â HC says, stroking XLâs hair. âHowever, I can most certainly afford to accompany Gege while he sleeps.â
XL happily snuggles close to HC, not worrying quite so much about the ball now that he has something going on with HC. To his astonishment, the pirate seems to return his affections quite enthusiastically. As a prince with the duty to serve his people, XL reckons he deserves this moment of happiness.
After another hour of blissful exchanging kisses and aimless conversation, XL feels himself begin to drift. He hears a whispered promise from HC who protectively curls around him.
âI will never bring you harm, Your Highness. Your heart is safe with me.â
XL falls asleep into a dreamless slumber.
***
Present...
As if it happens in slow motion, XL swings the sword with all the power he possesses. HCâs arms stretch open in vulnerability, lips forming into a small, understanding smile.
âGege.â
Something inside XL shatters. The familiar term of endearment is for XLâs ears only. His heart pounds against his rib cage with the ferocity of an imprisoned soul, screaming at XL to ask not what he would wish for in death, but what is he willing to live for?
The answer is right in front of him.
âIâm back.â
Three things happen at once.
A deafening BOOM fires at the royal ship from the opposite direction, pitch-black flags with the symbolic skeleton of a fish piercing through the chilly air.
Simultaneously, a blinding flash of lightning strikes across the sky, signaling an even more intense downpour of rain that obscures everyoneâs vision. Surprised screams echo somewhat mutely among the roaring winds.
Lastly, XL swings his sword so it barely skims the open blouse HC wears and keeps rotating until it crosses behind him, where he lets it go flying back to the royal ship.
At that moment, XL leaps forward into HCâs embrace, where those long arms encircle his waist, and both men are sent tumbling down into the crashing waves of the raging ocean.
ăVIă
#tgcf#heaven official's blessing#hualian#hualian au#xie lian#hua cheng#pirate & prince au#cerdrabbles#TBC#tian guan ci fu#the bonus had to be split into two#I really just wanted to write Hualianâs first kiss here hehe#we back in the present babyyy
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I know you did a prompt a while ago about Amy having a fan and Sonic told him to basically get lost. So could you do something like that but make the guy feel more entitled to Amy and she owes him her love. And when she rejects him he gets really aggressive so it justifies Sonic being more aggressive in turn? I love how your depict protective Sonic soooo cute!
So, I have MANY jealous and protective Sonamy stories XD Shifting through them, I think you meant this one? (x) For future reference, if any of you lovely Anons want to maybe just... link?... the actual prompt I would be very much appreciative since I have over 900+ lol
(Preview prompt image provided by ArtsyAnnieRose (x) Please support the artist :)b)
As I mentioned when reviewing this Prompt on my youtube --> Pajama Blogs Ep. 1 Prompt Requests (x) Timecode: - 54:21 - I try and not do the same prompt twice, which means I like to rewrite things so that I donât just keep making the same stories for different requests. So with this one, Iâve thought a lot about how to present it, and I think this will be fun! (Also, side note: Iâm not making this cute and parody-like, Iâve changed my mind XD I have the right to do that! lol)
***TRIGGER WARNING***: (now you know itâs gonna get good.) I have subtly littered red flags throughout this story, if you have experienced stalking or manipulation strategies in your life please be aware they will be showing up in this fic. Due to the subtle nature of these traits, please be informed that I am in no way trying to downplay the danger of these situations, but showing that to the main character currently in these situations, her view of them is naĂŻve and she sees no danger. Therefore, the gravity of the situation seems friendly and kind, but in no form am I saying these techniques are alright or acceptable. The âstrangerâ character in this story is a creep, no matter how âcharmingâ or âsweetâ he may be portrayed in the innocent main characterâs view. (If I write this correctly, hopefully, that message will be more clearer towards the end of the story.) I encourage any who recognize these toxic behaviors to please question your relationship with that individual and find safe, healthy relationships to pursue/keep instead. Whether your relationship with these kinds of people are platonic, friendship, or romantic in nature--please keep yourselves, families, friends, and other such loved ones safe. I will not be listing or detailing all occurrences of these moments within the story; however, with some psychology basics or google searching, you can find these common red flags or complexed manipulation strategies and how to better identify them.
Prompts are on shutdown! Do not send in any prompt requests at this time. Thank you!
Okay... letâs dive right in.
                         DIVE, DIVE, DIVE.
Note: This is another unconventional, more mature-themed story that I- well...
But my hope is that itâs still a story worth telling, so if you choose to, please enjoy.
Prompt:
Upon a rather dark and greying sky, as though the mentions of brief rainfall and storm werenât apparent, many citizens in this bustling city were making their usual rounds around the mall. Carrying a thin jacket with an umbrellaâs strap swinging at her side, Amy light-heartedly mused over a recent magazineâs article on the most eligible men, and read the chatty writerâs remarks on how Sonic The Hedgehog seemed to be away when the interviews for them were called.
She thought that so like Sonic, always away, but secretly just close enough to still keep tabs on whatâs going on with the many locations in the world.
Eggman seemed to have a base everywhere, and while things had been pretty quiet as of late, she looked up from her magazine and once again wondered where in the wide, blue world he could be.
Was he bored? Off on another adventure? ... Napping? Eating? Was he eating enough?
She sighed with a dreamy look on her face, lost in her thoughts before a stranger flicked his wrist as he approached her, and a charging wind blasted in her direction. Blowing her back, it swiftly hit against her loosely closed umbrella, since Amy wanted to be prepared for any sudden downpour, and triggered itâs spring to further yank her back.
âAh!â Amy tried to turn around to catch herself, the strap around her wrist forcing the sudden about-face as she grabbed her umbrellaâs long steel pole to try and counter the pull.
âWoah!â the stranger that was passing her from the front suddenly stumbled at the sight and quickly rushed behind her, leaning over and grabbing where her hand was on the open umbrella as the wind suddenly stopped. His hand lingered by her side as though to brace with her and help, before noticing the wind stop and looking dumbfounded at the umbrella.
There was a silence as Amy felt the stranger was almost holding her, and turned to him with blinks, âHeh-heh... umm... Thank you.â her body was bent as she tried to use her heels against the pavement to counter-force the sudden rush of heavy wind, but with itâs immediate halt, she stepped forward and away from the strange, intimate moment to close her umbrella.
He stood more straighter, fixing himself up too before smiling kindly to her, âDoes this happen to you often? Sudden, emmmm...â He swirled his palm-facing upwards hands around as he held the long, hummed note. âBursts of photo-aesthetic air through your hair?â
Amy chuckled lightly, briefly looking back at him before continuing to fix her umbrella, worried it may be broken as the spring wasnât going down well enough. Realizing it was probably jammed, she blew up some air to her bangs, figuring the worst, âYeah, real convenient for a photoshoot. Maybe the photographer will settle for a water effect?â she gestured humorously up to the clouds, âAll I need is a chair,â she teased, âThanks again for the help. Really! You came out of nowhere!â
âMuch like wind.â He joked back, putting his hands in his pockets, tilting his head to her. âYou... wouldnât mind if I take in the view of that shot, would you?â
âHuh?â she didnât quite understand what he was making reference to.
He smiled as if realizing she didnât get it and shook his head, âNothing, nevermind. Iâm clearly wasting your time,â he took out his own umbrella, looked at her a moment, then back to it. His long, brown and heavy jacket then flopped back to his side as he offered her it, âNo offense, but I did just meet you. I would offer you my umbrella, but Iâm worried I may never see it again. However, I have a solution,â He opened the umbrella and then gestured his hand to a restaurant near him. âSo that weâre not strangers anymore, and I can trust you with something so dearly precious to me as an old, fifty cent umbrella I literally picked up from a second-hand store... might I entreat you to a meal?â
Amy smiled, relieved he was being so gentlemanly. âI wouldnât mind at all!â she cheerily perked up, looking at her umbrella and tossing it in a garbage can. âIâm Amy,â She took his hand, curtseying. âAmy Rose.â
She did notice he was probably older than her, but he did a little bow and she realized she hadnât notice his real height until his eyes matched her level. He held his eyes with her sights... and she wondered why he was pausing so long, âI know...â He finally whispered out, tilting his umbrella over her head, âYouâre pretty famous, you know. Anyone would be lucky to help you out in a pinch. Iâm Oscar, I work around here.â
Guiding her into the outdoor restaurant, he sat her at one of the white tables with itâs own umbrella on it and closed his, settling down on the opposite side of her. âWell, then! Do you mind this spot?â
âOh, itâs my favorite, actually!â Amy chimed, knowing the location very well.
âReally?â He seemed a little less intrigued at that than Amy would have normally supposed someone would, but then after putting his umbrella away, leaned forward as though very attentive and putting his fingers together, his elbows on the wooden round table of white and letting his nose press down against his hands. He had gotten comfortable, and Amy, thinking this was his way of showing interest in what she meant, continued to sweetly respond.
âThis is so funny, but I come here almost every Thursday and Friday for the new deals at my favorite store! I usually order the same thing too,... I really love ice cream.â Amy felt a strange new energy at meeting someone for the first time, and continued to feel refresh at this new-found friendship.
âIce cream? No way! Thatâs my favorite too!â Oscar parted his fingers as though excited to hear this. âI have a sweet tooth. I know, I know, so silly of a man like me.â
âOh, no! Not at all!â Amy waved her hands out, âWhatâs your favorite kind?â
âWell,...â He thought a moment, before smiling back to her and holding a wink, âI have an idea, you tell me yours first. I bet itâs probably very different.â
âIâm a simple girl, Vanilla is mostly my cup of tea. But... whenever Iâm feeling adventurous, I go for it! Scoops of Vanilla and Chocolate with some random new flavor of mint or cookie flavored and then I top it with all sorts of stuff!â
He coughed as though shocked, â...Thatâs literally my favorite too!â
âWhat!?â Amy was excited to hear this, âI thought I was the only one that eccentric!â
âI know! Thatâs why I thought your answer would be completely different!â As Oscar continued to review Amyâs interests, he kept nodding along and reaffirming that they shared many similar interest and hobbies before the waiter appeared. âI love to chase certain thrills and excitements. Iâm sure, being an adventurer, I figured that may be the reason why you place yourself in such perilous circumstances as well.â
âYour orders, lady? Sir?â The waiter asked, trying to kindly cut in as Oscar pulled out his wallet.
âStrawberry sunday with a hint of vanilla, you?â he looked back to her.
âHa! Thatâs my Thursday order!â she giggled into her hand, âSame here, please!â
He shook his head, a little theatrically, âItâs almost like... where have you been all my life?â
âI mean, I know, right!? And you work around here! Thatâs so weird that Iâve never seen you before... where-â
âAh, thereâs really nothing interesting about me. Iâm much more fascinated in the adventures you take. What with your friends always weighing you down and everything.â He basically ignored the waiter as he tried to ask any follow-up questions, and Amy just looked between the two and then smiled politely to the waiter, showing that that was all they were going to have.
âWeighing me down..? Oh no, without Sonic and the others, I couldnât do anything as big as saving the world! We all need each other, you know?â She happily confirmed before he spoke again, sighing.
âI guess they would have you think that way, huh?â a offhanded comment that made Amyâs eyebrows furrow, but she just continued to speak about the wonderful traits and abilities of her friends, in which case, he kept shaking his head as though she was wrong.
âWhat?â She finally asked, âYou donât seem to like Sonic, Tails, or Knuckles...â
âI just think you could do with some different friends.â He shrugged, âSome that wouldnât constantly leave you behind or undergrade your merit.â In that moment, the waiter came back to place down their orders.
âU-undergrade..?â She looked down a moment, âN-no, no oneâs holding me back or anything. I choose how I help out, I canât always keep up with Sonic and the others so-â she stopped a second and shook her head, getting frustrated, âI-I mean, I can go with them whenever I want!â she retorted, and noticing her shift in demeanor, he took some ice cream and then held out his hand.
âOh no, no, no. Iâm so sorry, I didnât mean to imply you couldnât keep up. I meant that youâre invaluable and they donât treat you as such. But donât worry, Iâm here now, and Iâll show you how a true heroine should be treated. This meal is on me.â he gestured to her ice cream, âAfter this, Iâll show you some places that you probably havenât been to before.â
âO-oh... T-That does sounds exciting!â
For a few weeks after that, Amy began to hang out with Oscar frequently. They would text back and forth, and she couldnât help but smile when he always called her beautiful and made her feel so special. However, although the places they first went to werenât so bad... he started showing her back alleyways with clubs and other âthemedâ places that made her slightly uneasy.
She knew he was older than her, but would decline any invitation if he stated, âBut I know a guy, heâll let you in.â and continued to protest and remind him of her age.
That being said, the parks were lovely though!
He would often bring her little gifts and flowers too, stating that the next time she came with him, heâd bring some home-made food and had a habit of patting her head or brushing something off her hair if it landed on her. Though, Amy never noticed the âleafâ that had fallen on her shoulder, or the âbugâ that was buzzing around her headband.
He also would usually lead her when they walked and talked, if they came to a corner, he would lightly put his hand to her back, until one time she mentioned his hand went just slightly lower than normal and he apologized profusely.
All was going very well, he even carried her bags and offered to take them home with her, but she insisted she would take the train and that he neednât worry.
Finally, on a Friday when she was heading down for her sale, texting Oscar, a familiar wind picked up and almost brought up her dress.
âOh, look out!â Oscar appeared and grabbed her dress, pushing it down. âPhew! Close one, aye?â
âW-where did you come from?â Amy adjusted her dress as he held his hands to the rim of her dress still, but when she looked up at him, he immediately released them.
âI suppose I just naturally come when you need me.â he scratched the back of his head, looking away as though shy. âI donât know... sometimes, I canât sit still, I get this feeling like you need me, and lo and behold!â He gestured to her, âYou really do need someone looking after you twenty-four seven, huh?â he squatted down to look up at her, then his face turned to concern. âItâs a shame you donât have anyone to look after you... especially in moments like this.â
âW-what are you talking about? I have Sonic!â Amy placed her Miles-Electric away and gestured for him to stand upright, but instead, he took her hands and placed them on his cheeks, acting cute but a lot younger than he actually was.
âBut he didnât save you, I did~â he whined, squishing her hands to his cheeks and rotating them around as she thought him slightly weird and took them away, pushing him back as he stumbled. âH-hey!â
âOh, you! Sonic is just the same way! He canât sit still when he senses someone needs him... hey, that reminds me of my article...â Amy remembered the magazine she was subscribed too, and looked over to see that within his usual trench coat, was a page of that article sticking out. âAh!â She pointed to it, amazed, âYou read âFamous Quipsâ too!?!â
âDoesnât everyone?â he seemed to speak quickly, before shoving the magazine back in deeper. âEhem, kinda a girlie magazine... promise not to tell anyone? I donât wanna lose my street-cred!â
She laughed, âYou are like Sonic! Always acting so cool...â she shook her head and took his arm, what she had started doing since he offered it so many times, and they walked down the street.
He bought anything her eye rested on, which made her beg him to at least let her pay for food, as he mentioned a concert happening at the club he kept trying to get her to go to.
âCome on, youâll love this band! We adore the same music too! I know a perfect spot in the back where no one will see us and the bouncer is my friend!â his voice was enthusiastic, nudging her every now and then with his elbow as she looked away and rolled her eyes. âYouâre not a babe anymore, Amy! Youâre gonna end up going to clubs eventually, might as well be with someone you know, right?â
âI donât know...â Amy looked down,... and he gently stopped walking to look away from her.
â...Do you not trust me?â
âW-what?â Amy let go of his arm, âWhat do you mean? Of course I do!â she was very hurt by his accusation, âI mean, weâve hung out so much, I just donât really think clubbing is my thing...â
âYou never want to do what I suggest.â He looked down, âI go to your favorite store with you and help you bargain hunt, I take you around the park... Iâm just saying, the one time I want to go and do something, you keep saying no.â he folded his arms, and Amy began to panic that he was really offended by her.
âT-thatâs not true, Oscar! I...â she looked away a moment, and he looked back at her.
â...Ah, I canât stay mad at you.â He pulled her into a hug, holding her there. He took a deep breath, âIâm sorry, hey, letâs go get ice cream and talk about it later, okay? Iâll pay again.â
Her eyes shifted about, not sure what that was all about. âN-no, Iâll pay.â she tried to move away but kept an arm around her and led her on.
âI wouldnât be considered a man if I let the woman pay!â he insisted, and ended up paying for the meal.
As it got late, he offered to carry her bags home again, and whined in a goofy way when she kept saying it was too late to have guests over, but maybe sometime.
âIf you wonât see the concert with me, at least take me to your place sometime. Itâs the least you could do for me.â He gave her the bags, then stroked her hair again, âYou really shouldnât be taking the train at night, you never know what sicko might be on it. Youâre tough, Amy dear, but youâre still a girl and you know how youâre prone to cause problems.â he laughed, but that stung Amyâs pride a bit.
She held her bags and looked away a moment, â...Is that... how I come off to people?â
âOh sure!â he then continued to stroke her head, â...You ... didnât notice?â
â...That I look weak?â Amy shook her head and he instinctively removed his hand.
He held it in the air a moment, before letting it rest on Amyâs head again, as though realizing she wasnât doing that to make him stop.
âNo... the part where I... gave you a new nickname.â He smiled, tenderly and squatted down to her level again, keeping his hand on her head. âAmy dear. I think itâs cute!â
â...O-oh, I mean, I donât really like how it could appear though.â Amy had a bead of sweat form and he abruptly got up, looking upset.
âDonât like how it could appear!? What does that mean!?â He snapped.
She flinched at his sudden uproar, as he grabbed a bag from her, âIâve been wanting to introduce the nickname to you all day! And thatâs how you think about it!?â he looked as though he was going to either smash or rip the bag, but just looked furiously away from her, âI thought about it a lot, you know! It was suppose to mean something!â
Amy grew slightly afraid, but not taking this sudden mood-swing again, she opened her mouth to say something.
He interjected and looked dead in her face, âYou really donât trust me, do you, Amy?â
Thinking she didnât want to hurt him, she shook her head, âI-I never said that!â
âDonât yell at me,â he looked downhearted suddenly, even though she wasnât raising her voice that much, not like he was.
âIâm not-â
âYou are, and itâs really making me feel like youâre just... you donât consider me a friend. I told you people usually reject me,... I was vulnerable to you!â
âOscar, calm down a moment and-â
âYouâre the one whoâs not âcalming downâ you canât do a single thing I want to do! Youâre being... selfish!â he flopped the bag down in front of her, startling her as he took off stomps and a hissy-fit.
Not able to process that sudden shift in behavior, Amy was lost to her thoughts and... slowly... proceeded to get the bag and head to the train station.
Numerous texts came flooding in that week as she hadnât gone back to the plaza and mall, and she kept wondering how he knew she wasnât there. They had hung out multiple times, maybe he was just expecting another hang out without actually asking this time...
Still, she felt somewhat obliged to text back: Sorry, Iâll see you Friday. This Thursday, I just felt sick.
Oscar: Do you need anything? Send me your address, Iâll bring you medicine and make you some food! I really am sorry if I scared you, I shouldnât have done that. Youâre beautiful and Iâm just insecure. You know how I can be, just like you, I get really attached to people and just want to be accepted. Iâm really sorry, please donât not see me again! I promise Iâll get myself under control, weâll do whatever you want to do this time! Honest!
Amy didnât text back...
Oscar: The concert is next Friday, I wonât mention it again but... it would be really awesome if we could see Pop Pinkies together... I know itâs my favorite band and our favorite music is what they play so... just think about it at least, alright?
That Friday, Amy was wearing something that made her almost blend in with the crowd. Unlike her usual bubbly skip in the streets, she was hiding beneath her umbrella and coat, as though not wanting to be spotted.
A sudden burst of wind and she panicked, darting behind a corner and putting her umbrella away. âDumb wind.â she mumbled, looking around to make sure Oscar wasnât there...
The wind suddenly shifted as she poked her head out, âThatâs odd, wind doesnât usually change direction unless...â she turned and gasped as she saw Sonic, leaning his head towards her and looking confused.
â...Since when did you start taking the back-alley ways? Donât you know thatâs dangerous, Amy?â He blinked, furrowing his brow as he straightened up and folded his arms, âHeh, long time no-â
Amyâs mind was suddenly triggered by something Oscar had said, and she tuned out Sonic completely, her world going dark...
âI just think you could do with some different friends. Some that wouldnât constantly leave you behind or undergrade your merit.â
âYouâre tough, Amy dear, but youâre still a girl and you know how youâre prone to cause problems.â
âIs that... really how I appear to you?â Amyâs voice quaked as she spoke it, âDo I really look weak... even to you?â
Sonic was taken aback by the tears forming in her eyes, and immediately dropped the friendly banter, âAmy? Whatâs wrong? Weak?â he didnât know where she got that notion from. âN-no, I-... Amy, is something wrong?â he moved forward to reach for her but pulled away, something Amy wasnât used to as she really did--for a brief moment--think he was going to place his hand on her head.
Almost as if expecting that, she leaned her head in a strange way and then back, not sure why she did that.
He didnât notice the action though, but she hugged herself, also remembering that after the light head pats was usually a strong and forceful embrace...
â...Amy?â she hadnât responded to him, and now, Sonic was noticing a very clear change in Amy.
âN-no, of course you wouldnât think that... Iâm sorry, I really donât... I donât want to be around people right now.â she looked away, âI... I made someone feel really bad and I donât know what to do.â
âReally? What did you do?â Sonic lifted his hand and she immediately looked at it, which made him pause. â...Umm... I was just gesturing... Amy...â His ears bent back, not sure why she looked so squarely at his hand. âIs everything okay?â
She really thought he was offering her hand, but she didnât want to take it... not this time.
âI made a new friend, and heâs mad at me. Iâm worried... if I hurt him again, heâll really be in a bad emotional state, and itâll be all my fault.â Amy put her umbrella up and started to walk away from Sonic, âI want to take a new route, I didnât even want to come out today...â
â...Amy, you donât control this new friendâs behavior, they do.â Sonic corrected her and walked beside her, focusing heavily on the signs of uncomfortability Amy was showing. â...What happened with this ânew friendâ of yours?â He directly asked, and Amy relayed to him how she met him, then how he liked all the things she liked and agreed with everything in the beginning, how charming he was before the more time she spent with him, he seemed to change and start acting funny... but not in the good way.
â...He likes everything you like?â Sonic lowered his head a little, honing in on some things Amy briefly mentioned.
âYeah, isnât that crazy? Heâs a guy but he totally loves sweet things and a popular girlâs magazine I enjoy.â Amy smiled, closing her eyes as though cheering up when thinking about it.
â...And he knew your order before you even made it?â Sonic folded his arms, putting two and two together.
âYeah...â Amy suddenly slowed down in her steps, her eyes widening.
Sonic closed his eyes, matching her speed as he began to help her focus on the more important parts of her story, âAnd this... strange wind that passes by here... only comes at you and blows your dress up or opens your umbrella?â
She stopped.
He continued to walk, âAnd you say he works around here... which means he may have seen you come and go multiple times... and probably watched you ordered and heard what you liked, and saw what you read, and knew about you from the news and press... he disliked your friends and took you places and then entitled himself to being in charge over your Thursday and Friday venues... then, to really top it all off with the icing on the cake and all that jazz... heâs been insisting you go to a adult-themed club with him and throws a tissy-fit when you say no?â
Sonic stopped, his fists had already tightened into such hard balls of fury that he had to take silent deep breaths just to contain himself.
âAnd worst of all... heâs tried to copy me and put it in your mind that your friends donât respect you the way we should... isolating you,â He put out a finger, âGrooming and manipulating you... Amy, you should have written this guy the moment he snapped at you... and probably sooner, but Iâll take that as you were just seeing the best sides of him... and not the dirty kind.â he didnât turn around, but he felt Amy lingering behind him and knew if he said anymore, she may just start crying. â...Where do you think this creep is now?â
âHe... Heâs not a creep.â Amy lied, feeling in her heart that she just did lie, for Oscarâs sake...
Sonic tskâed and turned around, âHow can you stand there and defend him!? Do you even know what Grooming is!?â
â...I... I donât.â she wiped her eyes, âI donât think I know anything...â
The manipulation had really set in on Amy, she was denying something she knew was true and didnât know why. She was defending a man who clearly was up to no good, and yet... she cared about him still.
âSonic... I think... I think Iâm sick.â she held her stomach, the realization setting in. âYou donât think... he wanted me to take him to my house to..?â
âHe wanted to what!?â Sonic lunged forward, holding his fists back and to his sides as he tried to remain level-headed, pulling away from her. âAmy, you know the truth now, itâs time to end this... âfriendshipâ you two have.â
Amy fell to her knees, âThatâll kill him!â
Sonic immediately looked behind him, Amy almost begging him not to make her do it as Sonic couldnât stand to see her this broken and twisted up from Oscarâs scheming.
âAmy...â he wanted to say so many things..! But instead, just turned around and held a strong look, âYou have to face this... but you wonât be alone.â He offered her his hand, âI wonât leave your side, and Iâll be there the whole way through. You deserve to go out and have fun without someone telling you that it can only be âtheirâ way of fun.â He looked so serious... but she felt a peace wash over her at how she knew his words were never lies or deceits for something devious. His words were for her and her well-being... not once did Sonic ever yell or enforce his way about things at all. He listened to her, even though she knew he must be raging inside at his friendâs predicament... itâs not like she purposefully got herself into this mess.
âYou know how youâre prone to cause problems.â
She placed her hands up against her eyes, crying. âAm I... being a burden to my friends, Sonic?â
He immediately scooped her up into a bridal-style hold, âWhich store did you want to visit today, Amy? Or do you want to just go home?â
âPlease, I want to go home.â Amy held onto him as without a second word, he zoomed off.
The next few days, Sonic instructed that Amy block the number, but text messages seemed to not be the only thing Oscar knew... He called her home number, which surprised both of them, and the phone never stopped ringing.
That next Thursday, Sonic accompanied Amy everywhere she went, and they didnât spot Oscar anywhere. But come that Friday...
Sonic was carrying some of Amyâs bags, she didnât look fully recovered from anything, but at least she was wearing brighter colors in her coat she wore that day, and a nice sun hat as Sonic held the umbrella up for her.
He looked a little bored, but kept his eyes peeled when a sudden wind shoved him to the pavement.
âAh! Sonic!â Amy turned around but was immediately grabbed around the waist, pulled back. âGah!â
âI canât believe you let him back into your life!!!â
Amyâs ears rang with Oscarâs voice, before shoving him back and falling down beside Sonic, who quickly shook off the wind blast and spun around to pick up Amyâs things, placing the bags by the storeâs window.
âSo, this is the wind-manipulator, eh?â Sonic rotated his shoulder out, having landed on it pretty roughly, âLook, I donât know anything about you, and neither does Amy, really! So either get the hint and quit bothering Amy, or Iâll have to take matters into my own hands!â he hunkered down, getting ready for a fight, but... he also seemed not to be putting on airs or a show.
Sonic... although smiling a bit as he spoke to him, suddenly took a darker and more focused attention on how Oscar was holding himself.
Oscar looked to Amy, not even talking to Sonic, âI told you everything about me... What does that lying Sonic know about you!? Iâm the one thatâs been with you this whole time while heâs been off, probably with some other girl!â
Amy thought that ridiculous, and seeing him in a new light, she was able to at last come to fact with this pervert in front of her. âYou... you were never my friend... were you, Oscar?â
He bit his teeth down, âIs that what he made you think?!â
âNo, thatâs what he made he realize!â She threw up her hammer and blasted wind at her.
She was forced to slide against the concrete, âI donât mean to hurt you, Amy dear!â he cried out, âWeâll settle this when he isnât around!â
âI think youâve got it backwards, Oz!â Sonic, seeing that his hands controlled the wind, kicked it away from Amyâs direction and then spun in a rotation within the air to punch him down.
He stumbled, as though not used to physical fighting and tumbled all the way over into the street.
âIâve known Amy much longer and deeper than you have! Youâre just some creep who takes advantage of little girls!â Sonicâs fists was shaking, clearly, he didnât want to just leave it at one blow. âAmy, get behind me!â He gestured out his hand and Amy immediately got up and moved behind him.
âI can... I think I can fight him!â She tried to state, but Sonic looked behind his shoulder and she put her head down. âI... I want to but...â
â...You still care about me, donât you, Amy dear?â
âQuit calling me that!â Amy threw her arms down, âYou used me! You werenât my friend! I canât believe I trusted you!â
Sonic turned to the man, âWhy are you even answering him, Amy? Heâs not talking to you, heâs talking to some Amy Dear girl heâs been building in his mind. You were never anything to him... it was the girl he was crafting that he was interested in.â Sonic slowly walked towards him as the man started to scoot back, clearly not able to fight Sonic The Hedgehog.
âLetâs play a new game...â Sonic suddenly lifted up a device, âIs your real name Warner Windstrom? Youâve got a bounty on your head that the cops are just dying to claim...â he pressed the button as suddenly an alarm went out, and from around the corners, police vehicles blocked his way of escape. âOh, and that club? A typical place where your old âhostagesâ claimed they were drugged. Trust me, pal, Iâll personally make sure you donât get out of jail again.â Sonic let the police start moving in but Warner immediately shoved air beneath him and flew into the sky, shocking everyone as Sonic held up a arm over his eyes and moved back to Amy, shielding her as well.
She was in shock, that kind man she knew was suddenly a criminal and had previously hurt and abused other women... She didnât know Sonic set this all up, but she probably wouldnât have let him if she had known.
âI thought we were just gonna talk to him!â she cried out, putting her hand on his shoulder before shaking her head, âIâm defending him again... arenât I?â
âAmy shouldnât be with a loser like you, Sonic!â Warner cried out, âYou canât always save her! You canât always be around to-!â
Before he could finish, a hammer slammed into his gut.
âNice one, Amy.â Sonic complimented, as Amy stood up beside him.
She didnât say anything, but judging from the neutral expression... and tears streaming down her eyes...
He just looked back at Warner, âI know this is a lot to take in... but trust me on this one... Youâll be alright.â
Amy summoned another hammer, âWant to give me a lift?â
âCertainly.â Sonic spun into a ball that lifted him up into the wind, then uncurled to reach out for Amy as she jumped, âHit him hard!â he encouraged as he threw her up the rest of the length.
She pushed her dress down as he extended his arms to her, âAmy, please! You know me! I love-!â
She just growled and let out a piercing war-cry, slamming her hammer down on his face, âIâm not your friend, Iâm not your anything, buzz off!!!!â
He slammed to the ground, and as the wind ceased, Sonic landed and caught her immediately, and the two watched as the police immediately took him.
He kept trying to call out to Amy but she didnât say anything back, just ducking her head into Sonicâs shoulder.
Sonicâs eyes never left Warnerâs face... but leaving the scattered bags around, he took her to the park near by and sat her down.
He waited there... as Amy was just frozen in her thoughts... unable to speak.
After some time, she got up and walked to stand beside him, âWhat about the bags?â
âNot concerned.â Sonic stated, then looked back to her, âYou okay?â
âNo,â Amy admitted, âYou were right. Itâs gonna take time... but I wish it would all just go away now.â she placed her hands on the side of her arms, âHow... how did you know? When I was telling you about him... how did you know he was no good?â
Sonic tilted his head back and forth, then tapped his head. âWhen youâve been around the block a few times... helping justice here and there... you learn a thing or two about red flags, Amy... you donât have a lot of dating experience--or just knowing bad dudes are like that--in general! I donât blame you... but I do think that you should be careful who your friends are.â
She scooted closer to him... then tilted her head to his shoulder.
â..Can you help me get better?â
âNo,â he lightly tilted his head to hers, âBut I can be with you while you figure it out.â
There was a long moment of silence as they held that comforting moment...
âWill I ever be me again?â she asked, her voice cracking slightly.
â...No,â He responded, tenderly, as though a whisper as he looked up at the rain being to slowly drop all around them. âBut I can be with you as you learn to accept her.â
Amy closed her eyes, feeling the small drops of rain before it all at once, speedily came down on them.
â...Will you still love me? At the end of it all?â
Silence...
âI already do.â
Rain scattered as Sonic held his eyes straight up into the clouds... the storm in his heart subsiding as Amy cried and her shoulderâs bounced beside him.
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Five Times Bodhi Uses the Force
And the One Time the Force Uses Cassian
Can also be read here!
The first time Cassian noticed it, they were deep in the forests of Tython and being shot at. Â Cassian is not pleased, to say the least, but Bodhi seems extra distracted. Â Maybe because it was going to rain any minute.
âBodhi, focus,â Cassian hisses at him, belly down on the forest floor, chancing a glance over. Â
Bodhi is staring down his rifle at nothing. Â
âCassian,â he says after a minute of not firing. Â âWe need to go.â
Cassian huffs, because if Bodhi was discovering new found reasons for dissension, now was really not the time. Â
âNo, I mean, they have something,â Bodhi insists, and finally starts popping off shots. Â
Cassian feels like the most long suffering soul in the galaxy. Â âWhat?â Â A battering rain of blaster fire sweeps down again.
âUh, I donât know? Â But itâs big.â
âBig like an AT-AT?â
âNo, itâs alive. Â Itâs angry.â
Cassian is about to ask how Bodhi would even know, and thatâs when the blaster fire stops, and the forest becomes eerily quiet.
Thereâs a crunch of underbrush and the ground almost seems to vibrate. Â
Bodhi shoots straight up, eyes wider than normal, and yanks on Cassianâs jacket. âRun!â he yells, and Cassian is swearing to himself this is the last time he pairs up with Bodhi on a mission, thereâs too many factors going on, and stumbles after him. Â Cassian whips around to cover them, and thatâs when he sees the large, angry, alive thing.
âIs that a Rancor?!â he shouts, but Bodhi is still tugging on his sleeve and Cassian almost trips in his haste to keep up.
The second time is more subtle. Â
Apparently Luke Skywalker, the farm boy from the middle of nowhere, has asked Bodhi to fly him to some other bum fuck nowhere planet, and Bodhi agrees, even though heâs clearly on Cassianâs squadron, not Lukeâs band of freelancing Rebels.
Anyways. Â Cassian basically elbows his way onto the trip, insisting on some bullshit reason, that makes Bodhi frown and Luke smirk behind his hand. Â
They all fly out to Dagobah,and Luke directs them to a rocky patch of land that he insists will hold (how he knows, Cassian has no clue, because itâs all fog) and tells them to wait. Â âI should be back within 2 hours.â
Bodhi nods and he and Cassian both watch as Luke quickly disappears into the fog, and Bodhi shivers.
âItâs eerie, isnât it?â Cassian asks, before turning to work outside the cockpit; thereâs nothing wrong with the ship, but he needs something to occupy his hands.
âIt feels weird,â Bodhi says. Â âLike, like being watched.â
âIf you canât see it, it canât see you out here,â Cassian says, gesturing outside. Â
Bodhi hums, but doesnât say anything else. Â They work in silence, and just as quickly as he disappeared, Luke comes back into view, picking his way over rocks and who knows what else, a thoughtful look on his face.
âThis place always makes me feel alive,â Luke says, settling in.
âMost people go to the mountains, not the swamp,â Cassian says, knowing heâs being testy.
âBecause it feels alive here,â Bodhi explains to Cassian unnecessarily. Â
âBodhi, what do you know about kyber crystals?â
Bodhi stiffens, and Cassian absolutely does not loom. Â Bodhi is an adult, he tells himself. Â
âQuite a bit, why?â
âOh, someone told me you might know,â Luke says, the opposite of casual, and Cassian knows this pipsqueak is lying. Â âI need to get a hold of one.â
âI mean, the Empire mined all the kyber off Jedha. Â You might need to speak with Chirrut or Baze, I think theyâd have more intimate knowledge of it.â
âOkay, thanks,â Luke says, somehow bright and solemn at the same time. Â Cassian sighs. Â He should give the kid a break; after Han Solo was frozen, heâd been changed somehow. Â âIâm building a new lightsaber,â Luke explains to Bodhi, because Cassian couldnât care less and is also still deep in the innards of the cooling system.
Bodhi laughs, and Cassian swallows. Â âI think the last one I saw was yours, but there were quite a few pilgrimages to my homeworld when I was a boy by force users.â
They keep up the conversation, Bodhi seeming more and more distant before Luke finally stops asking him questions. Â
The ride home seems interminable.
The third time Cassian is playing a card game with a blind man and losing. Â Chirrut, as always, is pleased by the turn of events, and keeps loudly asking if he has a good hand.
Bodhi is sitting next to Chirrut, whispering to him what he does and does not have. Â Baze is watching them from the kitchenette, making something that makes Cassianâs mouth water. Â
Bodhi lays down the third hand for Chirrut, and Cassian blows out a sigh. Â âYouâre cheating,â Cassian accuses. Â âI donât know how, but you are.â
Chirrut smiles, âI will step out of the game, then. Â Bodhi can take my place.â
Bodhi turns to him. âI was always lucky in cards,â he warns. Â
âLuck I can handle,â Cassian says.
âThere is the downside of that,â Bodhi offers, âUnlucky in cards, lucky in love?â
Cassian very carefully does not freeze. Â âIâm not sure that if one is true, then the other must the opposite.â
âWell, thatâs the pattern, anyway,â Bodhi says, and draws two.
âIf it was so, then I should be more lucky in cards,â Cassian insists.
âLuck and love have nothing to do with each other,â Baze grumbles. Â
âOn the contrary, my love, Iâm lucky to have you,â Chirrut says.
Baze rolls his eyes, but thereâs a hint of a smile around his lips, and he brushes his fingers along the back of Chirrutâs shoulders as he walks around him to sit.
Bodhi freezes his cards in the playing field, and Cassian blinks. Â An almost perfect hand. Â âMaybe it was you who was cheating,â Cassian jokes.
âI did run a gambling ring on racers when I was young,â Bodhi shrugs. Â âMaybe itâs luck and experience that gives you a good hand.â
âOh that cannot be true,â Cassian scoffs in delight. Â He tries to imagine a young Bodhi flitting around the streets of Jedha, but it is hard to imagine, as he did not have much of a childhood himself.
âYeah, but I got caught. Â So, maybe itâs not luck.â
Cassian thinks. Â âHere,â he says, drawing a new card from the deck. âIs what I have higher, or lower, than the next draw?â
Bodhi tilts his head. Â âI donât understand,â he says.
âIf itâs experience, then you will not know,â Chirrut explains for him. Â âA sabaac deck is ever changing. Â Thereâs only the faces that stay the same. Â If it is luck,â He spreads open his hands, âthen you will know.â
âThatâs impossible.â Â Bodhi shakes his head.
âTry,â Cassian insists. Â âSlide the deck under the playing field; freeze it.â
Bodhi still looks hesitant, but does so anyway.
âHigher or lower?â Cassian asks again.
Bodhi squints up his nose, and Cassian feels the urge to lean across and kiss it, but refrains. Â Thatâs experience.
âHigher,â Bodhi says after a moment.
Cassian slams the card face up on the field.
Baze raises his brows. Â âA five of flasks,â he says.
Bodhi stares at the card. Â Then slowly flips the top card of the deck next to it.
Baze laughs while Bodhi and Cassian look in awe. âA four of flasks,â Baze crows.
âMust be luck,â Chirrut says, undercurrents of mirth and knowing in his tone.
Theyâre under fire again the fourth time. Â The upside is, theyâre in the U-Wing. Â The downside is, Cassianâs been shot, and so is the hyperdrive and who knows what else. Â Heâs piloting one handed while Bodhi is fixing whatever is making the shipâs alarms blare and the lights stutter. Â Kay is trying to calm him down, saying something about the likelihood of their getting out of this mess, and he keeps looking back to yell at Bodhi to fix whatever is wrong with the ship now. Â
He canât hear what Bodhi is shouting back at him, not only because Bodhi is under the floorboards in the wiring, but because Cassian is about to pass out.
âKay,â Cassian hears himself slur before slumping over in the captainâs chair. Â âGet Bodhi,â he says, but it sounds like âgeh bowdehlâ but Kay understands, and scoops him up as the ship is shuddering from the fire power of the dozens of TIE fighters. Â Kay says something mostly likely discouraging, and lays him down on the cockpit floor before stepping over him.
Bodhi runs back in a few seconds later, eyes wide and panicked. Â âCassian!â Bodhi kneels next to him and holds his face, looking for something. Â Itâs wonderful and ridiculous because Cassian was clearly shot in the arm, not in the face, even if thatâs what it feels like. Â Cassian closes his eyes and feels guilty for enjoying it anyway.
âI will fix the hyperdrive,â Kay says, âyou must fly.â
âIs he okay?â Bodhi asks, already getting into the captainâs chair, switching toggles and maneuvering out of the way of the fight. Â
âUntil we lose all life systems, which will be soon,â Kay starts.
âGo, Kay!â Cassian finds the strength to yell, and Bodhi snaps back towards the transparasteel and yanks hard on the controls.
The ship jerks up, and Cassian does his best to not slide out of the cockpit but thereâs not much to hold onto, let alone his dignity. Â The ship is still being punched from firepower and jolts from side to side. Â Cassian doesnât want to die, let alone on the floor of his own ship.
âBodhi,â Cassian says.
âHang on, Cass,â Bodhi calls back. Â Thereâs a distinct noise of systems shutting down, and then the ship turning too fast and Cassian thinks this is it.
âBodhi I love you,â he says, almost conversationally.
The ship stops and all the lights go off.
âCassian, I love you too, but I really need to concentrate right now, can we get back to this later?â
If Cassian had anymore energy to snap he would, but he tries to bask in the final thought that Bodhi loves him too.
When the lights snap back on and ship jerks back to life, Cassian can barely believe it.
âHyperdrive is still out,â Kay informs them before stepping out again.
âThen Iâll have to out fly them,â Bodhi says, and Cassian is sliding forward back into the cockpit again.
âThe kriff are you doing?â he asks, struggling to hang on to something before grabbing onto the copilotâs chair and holding on for dear life as they are flying sideways for whatever reason, and then thereâs a bump, then nothing. Â
No swishing overhead, no lasers rocking the ship, and as far as Cassian can tell, the U-Wing is right side up.
âAm I dead?â he asks.
âNo, surprisingly,â Kay says. Â âWe should be.â
âI donât want to get up,â Cassian moans. Â âBodhi are you okay?â
âWere you serious?â Bodhi asks instead.
âI know Iâm not dead,â Cassian says, letting go of the copilotâs chair to roll over to look at Bodhi. Â Bodhi, who outmaneuvered a dozen TIE fighters. Â
âI meantâ never mind,â Bodhi says, looking forward again.
âCassian loves you,â Kay assures Bodhi.
âYeah, I do,â he says, starting to slur again. Â âSorry my droid is more emotionally aware than I am. Â Maybe just more aware. Â Iâm not sure how much blood Iâve lost.â
He might have passed out.
He feels a stabbing pain in his arm, and Bodhi is sitting next to him, Kay elevating his legs. Â Bodhi has a line from his own arm where blood is flowing in.
âYou will live,â Kay says, sounding about as relieved as a droid can.
âKay says you lost a little less than eighteen percent of your total blood.â
âSorry I yelled at you Kay,â Cassian says.
âYou will live,â he repeats sanctimoniously. Â âOur friend is an exceptional pilot.â
Bodhi ducks his head, and Cassian wonders at that.
Bodhi visits him in med bay the time Cassian finally says something about it.
Cassian feels ridiculous and delighted at the same time; theyâre holding hands. Â Cassian will never let anyone but Bodhi know how he feels right now.
Bodhi is talking to him about the Rogue One crew, and Cassian drifts in and out but hangs onto Bodhiâs words as tightly as he can.
âIâll let you get some rest,â Bodhi whispers.
Cassian tightens his grip, and tugs. Â âCome here,â he says. Â âNext to me.â
Bodhi huffs, but even with his eyes closed, Cassian can tell itâs a happy one. Â Bodhiâs warm body is pressed against his on the small cot, and Cassian for all he feels weak, has never felt better.
Bodhi leans up and kisses lightly across his cheek. Â The bed moves. Â Neither of them have. Â Cassian pulls back and opens his eyes slowly. Â âBodhi did you just move the bed?â
âNo, you did,â Bodhi says.
âBodhi, you know youâre Force sensitive, right?â
Bodhi sits up, jarring the bed and Cassian too this time. Â âNo. Â No!â Â He shakes his head. Â Then stops, considering. Â âThe Guardians of the Whills did come talk to my mother when I was a child,â he muses.
âKriff what am I going to do with you?â
Cassian relates the bare bones of it to Chirrut and Baze while Bodhi sits with him.
Baze looks like heâs going to burst out laughing, and Cassian finally asks, âWhatâs so funny? He needs training.â
âAbout that,â Chirrut says.
âYou know recognizing Force adepts and sensitives are also a trait of the same, right?â Baze asks. Â He raises an eyebrow. âYouâre Force sensitive too.â
Bodhi laughs, delighted. Â âI guess you know what to do with me now,â he says. Â âCome with me.â
Cassian can live with that.
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