#and then mom let aurora into my room so the decision was made for me

[scolek]

when i woke up this morning i was like 'i am definitely not supposed to be awake right now, but i am very aware of the exact place the threshold between being able to go back to sleep and it being a moot point and the best course of action being to just get up is, and i know i am over that threshold'

[leilakisakabiri]

World Cup (Gavi)

Summary: Gavi is selected for the national team and you’re there to celebrate with him.

Warning(s): None

A/N: Please send in any requests if you have any. 

Word Count: [1193]

You rushed out of your car, knocking on the door urgently.

“Y/n. Hello dear, come in!” Gavi’s mother ushered you inside.

“Hi, did I miss it?” You asked nervously.

Today was the day that Gavi would find out if he got selected for the World Cup team, and you had promised him that whatever the decision, you would be there to support him. You knew that it was an honor to play for your country and that he wanted it more than anything, it was all he had dreamed about since he first kicked a football.

You had been stuck in an exam for the past two hours and had just been released, rushing over right away. Originally, your exam had been scheduled for three hours prior but due to a plumbing issue in the building where the test was supposed to be, they had to push it back an hour, leaving you with barely enough time to finish the exam and drive to Gavi’s.

“You just made it, we’re working on setting up the broadcast. Gavi’s upstairs.” She spoke.

You thanked her before hurrying up the stairs.

You knocked on the door and heard his voice through the door.

“I’ll be done soon, just give me a minute.”

“It’s Y/n.” You spoke.

You heard shuffling, and a second later the door opened to reveal a very stressed-out Gavi.

“I thought you weren’t coming.”

You instantly felt the guilt wash over you, “I’m so sorry there was an issue with my exam, and it got pushed back, so I barely had time to make it here.”

He pulled you into his room, sitting on the bed, “That’s fine. Thanks for coming, I’m glad you’re here.”

You smiled, sitting next to him, grabbing his hand that was playing with his hoodie string, “No problem. I got you.”

You both fell into silence until you noticed him biting the inside of his cheek and furrowing his brows excessively.

You leaned over, placing your arm over his shoulders, “Hey, everything’s going to be okay. You’re already so talented, and no one can take that away from you. Plus, you’re only eighteen and you already have such a bright future ahead of you.”

He leaned into your touch, “I guess. I’ve just wanted this for as long as I can remember, and I feel like I worked hard, but I don’t know, what if it’s not enough?”

“Mmm, yah I didn’t think of that, you’re probably right.” You nodded, agreeing with him.

Gavi pulled away from you looking almost offended.

You laughed, “I’m just kidding obviously. Your family loves you, and I do too, regardless of what happens. You’ve done everything right. It’s out of your hands now.”

“But what about Spain, what if they don’t love me?” He questioned.

“Well, if you don’t have haters, have you really even achieved anything?”

He contemplated your words, “That’s kinda deep.”

You smiled sweetly, “I know. Now c’mon, your mom said she almost had the broadcast set up.”

You followed him out of the room and walked downstairs.

Almost everyone was in the living room, crowded onto the couch, as they counted down the minutes till the program started.

You stood by the doorway and watched as they all moved to accommodate Gavi, making him sit in the middle of the couch as they reached over to reassure him.

You knew that even if he didn’t get picked today it would be okay because he had such a great support system, and people who would love him regardless of what happened.

He looked up at you, motioning for you to join him, scooting over to make space for you between him and his mother.

You felt bad separating him from his family, wanting them to be able to celebrate together if he got picked, so you opted to sit on the floor in front of the couch, resting against Gavi’s legs.

“Sit up here.” He urged.

You waved him off, letting him know you were fine on the floor.

Aurora came to join you a few seconds later, and the broadcast officially began.

You felt Gavi reach down and grab your hand as the news reporters started speaking, placing it on his knee.

He gave your hand a squeeze, and you gave a quick squeeze back.

It was time.

The announcers began by talking about different theories and tactics before the official selection announcements began.

You all sat silently with labored breaths as you heard the first national team player be announced.

There was a round of cheers when Pedri’s name was called up.

The draft continued and soon there were only around ten spots left to be selected.

You felt yourself growing nervous; you couldn’t imagine how Gavi felt. He had an immense pressure on him, and you couldn’t fathom how he was able to handle it all.

You looked up at him and watched as he chewed on his bottom lip, sitting on the edge of his seat, nerves on full display.

You felt his hand squeeze your hand again, not being able to control his anxiety, and you have him an equally hard squeeze back, letting him know that it would be okay.

You began to pray that he would get chosen, you knew that he deserved it and that he would do amazing things if he got the chance.

You stared intently at the screen, your heart thudding against your chest.

“The player selected for number nine for the national team is, Pablo Gavira.”

Immediately, cheers and screams erupted around you. You were smiling so wide it hurt, clapping your hands, cheering along.

You reached over to hug Aurora, the both of you ecstatic for him.

You got up, seeing him being hugged and showered with praise from his parents.

You saw him break apart with a huge smile on his face, his eyes shimmering with happiness.

He looked over at you and his smile mirrored your own.

Before you knew it, he had picked you up, spinning you around in excitement.

You let out a loud laugh, squealing as he kept spinning.

He had one arm wrapped around you, the other making a fist in the air as he celebrated.

He gently put you down and you grabbed him by the shoulders, shaking him, unable to hide your excitement, “Congratulations! You deserve it so much. I knew you could do it!”

You pulled him into a hug, squeezing his body, the pure joy radiating from him immensely lifting your mood.

“What was the pep talk for before then?” He questioned once you broke apart.

You rolled your eyes playfully, “Oh that, I just had to make sure you didn’t get too cocky. But I guess that’s out the window now.”

He grinned looking down at you, “Don’t worry amor, I’ll stay humble. Just for you.”

You snorted, not even bothering to reply as you saw him become swarmed by his family and friends, all wanting to congratulate him.

Yep, he definitely was going to let it get to his head, but you just had to make sure you were there to knock him down a peg every so often.  

[atthedugouts]

Shameless and Princesses

I don't know about you all, but when I'm feeling down I turn to Disney movies. This week definitely calls for some comfort so I made a list of the official Disney Princesses (plus Anna and Elsa) and assigned a Shameless Character to each one.

Snow White - Carl.  Like the OG princess, Carl is a friend to the animals, he had a hard time with the vet job he had. Also Carl has some natural gentlemanly qualities to him much like Snow White’s instinct for household chores. He looks out for his siblings and takes care of them in his own way. Also Snow White, White Boy Carl? There’s something there right?

Cinderella - Fiona. Frank is her ugly alcoholic father. She works hard to take care of her siblings taking on the burden of managing the household and at the end she leaves her abusive home. Cinderella is often characterized through her kindness and even though Fiona is far from perfect, she has a big heart. She sacrificed so much for her family and definitely should have had a fairy godmother to help her out.

Aurora -  Liam. Aurora has the least amount of lines out of any princess and Liam wasn’t doing much for the first part of the show. Also like our Sleeping Beauty, Liam has his own good fairies. His older siblings protect him and take care of him. 

Ariel - Debbie.I think it’s easy to put the redhead as Ariel but I actually think they have a lot in common. Ariel longs to see the human world and fights with her dad about it much like Debbie coming at odds with Fiona about growing up too fast and becoming a mom. I can just see Debbie in her room sing/yelling “Bet'cha on land they understand /Bet they don't reprimand their daughters!” Even as an adult that line is very cathartic.

Belle - Mickey. Belle is seen as an outcast because she loves to read (what a nerd) and Mickey is judged because of who his family is. My favorite part of the movie is when Belle returns home to her father because to everyone else he’s crazy old Maurice but she loves him and has to protect him. Mickey has run to protect Ian more than once.

Jasmine - Svetlana. Jasmine is not a prize to be won and neither is Svetlana. Jasmine is trapped behind walls forced to marry a suitor (not to say arrange marriage and prostitution are the same). Svetlana is also longing for freedom and I believe Yevgeny is her own magic carpet that lets her see a whole new world. 

Pocahontas - Jimmysteve. He swan dives right into Fiona’s life. They are from different worlds and find love even if just for a brief moment. In the movie Pocahontas iconically throws herself in front of John Smith before her father tries to kill him, but honestly that was a stupid move, she could have died. And Jimmysteve has made many stupid decisions that leave him almost dead.  

Mulan - Ian. Both joined the Army under false identities. Mulan also doesn’t let anyone define her and proves that she is not one to be underestimated. To me this is season 6 Ian. He works hard to be seen more as just his bipolar and though he doesn’t save all of China as an EMT he gets to be a hero to many in Chicago.

Tiana - Kevin. OK, so he’s no way near as smart as Tiana but they both come from disadvantaged backgrounds and end up owning their own businesses. Kevin is not good with the numbers or the spelling but he is a great bartender just like Tiana is a great cook. Plus you know Tiana’s restaurant will have some wacky regulars just like The Alibi Room.

Rapunzel - Mandy. They are both trapped in a home by an abusive parent. Terry and Mother Gothel manipulate their children and use the idea of love for their own gain. They both are also fine with violence, Rapunzel with her frying pan and Mandy with her car. Though I wish the circumstances were different, Mandy does get to leave her tower and start to live her life on her own terms.

Merida - Veronica. Both are not afraid to speak their mind. Merida enters the archery competition against her potential suitors and that baller move is something I can see Veronica do. At the heart of it, Brave is about a mother daughter relationship and I love the dynamic between V and her mom. 

Moana - Ethel. Girl went beyond that line and crossed that line right out of the southside. 

Raya - Franny. I saw Raya and the Last Dragon but I honestly don’t remember it (I think I remember her having a hot dad?). I’m going to put Franny here because I’m sure Franny thinks dragons are cool.

Anna - Karen. Anna totally has abandonment issues and Karen is a perfect case study of it. Because of that they both have an unhealthy view of love and relationships, Anna is infatuated by the first boy she meets and Karen’s love life is extremely messy. I can also see Mandy whispering “Oh Karen, if only there was someone who loves you” before she hits her with her car.

Elsa - Lip. So for the comparison this is actually Frozen 2 Elsa. She wasn’t shown to be a bad queen or anything, her heart just wasn’t in it. Lip is often criticized for not living up to his potential but he just wasn't built for academic life and couldn’t handle the pressure. Like Elsa he steps away and does something else.

[talkingharrystyles]

🌌Recently, I’ve thought about how love is one of those emotions you cannot hide. It does not matter how much romantic content you aggressively beat the public with choose to release to the world, there is nothing more special and honorable than letting others know the specific context and worth that a person means to you.

Some of the most private couples, and close friends, cannot help, but directly express the sincere devotion and respect that they have for their partners.

Here are a few favorites.

Nikki’s birthday message to Ian: “You are my every dream brought to life. With our hands pressed together I know that we will always find our way home. You are a gift to this world, a teacher of light and a student of love. You radiate warmth in vibrant reds and deep orange hues. I often wonder what it would be like to see autumn arrive through your eyes. Here is to the next 65 years together, holding hands, strolling through the woods, still learning, still listening. Happy happy birthday…I love you.”

Justin to Hailey: “To my beloved birthday squish. My heart belongs to you. My eyes belong to you, my lips belong to you. am yours. I am so blessed to be yours. Life has never made more sense until you became my wife. I will never stop loving you, I will never stop holding you, and I will never stop protecting you. You my queen are more than enough for me and I will spend everyday making you feel like the queen that you are. As your grandma would say in her Portuguese accent ‘happy bursday baby’ love you until the end of time and then after that. :).”

Johnny message about Winona: “But Winona. It's different, she's my everything. She's my soul, my heart, my girl, my wife to be, my baby's mom, my leading lady. No one will ever fill her shoes. Trust me.”

Jessica [Alba] to her husband Cash: “You are the calm and voice of reason, always keeping things in perspective and seeing the beauty and light in every circumstance. I love you more than words could explain and I'm so proud to be your partner in life.”

Hugh to Deb: “Even at the Oscars, I walk out, I put my hand on my heart and I always look to Deb in the audience. Straight afterwards, I will not see anybody in my dressing room until Deb's been in. Because that is my foundation, that is the rock, that is the foundation of our family, and therefore my life.”

Alex’s inspiration behind Aurora Borealis: “I remember I was going through a dark time in my life, and out of nowhere came this beautiful woman. She (Josephine) was strong. She was kind. She was bright. I remember feeling like a million colors flashed through this sky of darkness I had been living under, and it was her. It was all her. She was all of the colors in that dark sky.”

Harry’s message about Caroline: “Please know I didn't 'dump' Caroline. This was a mutual decision. She is one of the kindest, sweetest people I know. Please respect that.”

Harry’s response about Cherry: Zane, “Who is the voice on the song?” Harry, “my ex-girlfriend.”

Olivia about her and Jason: “We have sex like Kenyan marathon runner.”

“He’s (Jason) so good with kids. ... I’ve never before experienced looking at someone and thinking, 'That’s who I want to raise a child with.'”

“I was on the dance floor and everybody was dancing around me and they seemed really happy, and I was just kind of standing there.” The comedian then walked up to her and said, “Whatever you’re looking for, you don’t need it.”

“There's still a shorthand that comes from being someone's closest partner, but I loved being able to just set him free, because he's one of the best improvisers in the world”.

Set a man free, eh? What, then, should the public call this wardenship babysitting unofficial adoption “relationship” that she has with Harry?

Jason’s message about Olivia: “[Olivia] is a combination of everything that I love about women — she's smart, strong, caring, beautiful and as funny as anybody I've ever known. She just has it all. It's like she's the most gorgeous Costco you've ever seen in your life. Early on in our relationship, I would sneak onto her Twitter and read through things she had written. I'd be like, 'This is awesome. She's awesome.”

Harry’s messages about Olivia: “If I was a girl, I’d have a crush on Zayn-“ Oops, sorry. Wrong person.

“Always in my heart-“ Oh sorry. Still wrong person.

“For the only person to have ever truly seen me beyond my flesh and blood and beyond the disguise-“ Whoops. Entirely wrong musician. Give me a second.

“I’ve always tried to compartmentalise my personal life and my working life.”

… It’s plausible that his hay fever may have flared up, here, and prevented him from understanding the question.

Let’s find another quote where he acknowledges Olivia, as someone apart of his personal life.

“Any assumptions on his love life are curtailed for his Dazed cover story.”

Maybe Harry was sincerely confused, as the journalist failed to word the question clearly?

Let’s look at Stern’s interview, where Stern cut the crap to directly clarify Olivia’s value to him (Harry).

“You fell in love on a movie set.”

“Uhh… how do I answer this questions? I had a wonderful experience getting directed by Olivia. Acting is kind of uncomfortable at times; you have to trust a lot. Being able to trust your director is a gift. That was very helpful. It meant for a really nice experience working on Don’t Worry Darling.”

Well, call everyone boo-boo the fools for assuming that the person, who has been on an insanity campaign to force people to believe you are her boyfriend, is only valued to you as a mere coworker, lover boy.

You could had, at least, praised her… I don’t know… I don’t know…. exceptional talent at evading responsibilities? Her unflinching willingness to broadcast her every cosmetic procedure, regardless of the negative effects still visible? Even, complimented her mentally stunted fashion sense would had lessen the humiliation blow.

Surely, the supportive “love of his life” could freely congratulate her man on one of his greatest achievements, as his other personal friends did. Olivia was never one to verbally suppress her feelings of someone she loved. She LOVED to chatter of how “blissfully, wildly, and hopelessly” in love she was with Jason.

Undoubtedly, now that she’s the “happiest she has ever been”, she wouldn’t hesitate to verbalize the source of that happiness, as well as writing and talking about the person who is responsible for it all.

Right?

Take Liam, whom Harry rarely sees, SM’s message to Harry for his Grammy win: “Congrats [Harry] on your Grammy win. What a huge moment, proud to be your brother."

And the supportive girlfriend? Nothing excessive. Just a personalized note celebrating her “boyfriend’s” talents and expressing her pride.

Olivia’s message: 🍉

Olivia’s messages about Harry: “my (unnamed, had to be written in by Vogue’s journalist) friend.” Harry styles is my best friend cap. Compulsively liking secondary statements written by strangers on SM. “Happy happy” (strangely showed NO NAME on the board), 👏🏼 when the album was released. Traditional acknowledgment post thanking him for his WORK in DWD, and “You know I can’t talk about that” to the TMZ pap.

Can’t, Olivia? Or contractually barred from doing so, as you don’t hesitate to steal coins from wishing wells, and collect dropped change in Hampstead to pay for the overflow of articles, pap walks, blinds, and “fan sights” that speaks the false narratives you, yourself, are blocked from saying directly.

As well as walking daily from Belsize to Hampstead to be spotted near one of his publicly recognized properties.

After comparing and contrasting their “expressions of love” against a broad spectrum of couples, private and public, platonic and romantic, including their own behavioral patterns, it’s safe to say that, as always, the 1 + 1 IS NOT adding to 2 with Holivia’s romance.

I mean, damn.

Even, the mentally deranged gf harries are allowed to freely post whatever they want about Harry.

Yet, the woman who “has made him feel so comfortable about having sex” is limited to likes, emojis, and only directly posting about him in promotion of the film he’s in?

Here are two honorable mentions that I thought Olivia, herself, should be reminded of, as they are her own words:

“All actors should experience public failure.”

“I think it’s very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and NOT DEFINED BY ANOTHER PERSON.”

Interesting, indeed. Has her injections compressed her brain so much so that she has completely forgotten this motto? Start choosing your words wisely, Cockburn. For they may be used as instruments for your publicly undoing.

And, a special message from “king Harry” himself:

“I want a girl who respects herself. It means her standards are high and if I fit them then I’d be honored.”

….Yeah. If anyone is still convinced of the “romantic nature” of Holivia, use this cheat sheet to guide you. Getting unnecessary lost in the sea of chaos and confusion is not worth anyone’s time.

That’s all.

For everyone reading, I hope you all are doing alright.

[anotherbeingsworld]

a step forward

pairing: bryce x f!mc (alessia lyxienne)

book: open heart: third year

rating: general

warning: a few curse words.

word count: 4163

summary: a rewrite of the final chapter of book 3 (3:16) as Alessia will be making a hard decision.

ps: tags and a/n will be at the end of the fic!

I love you…’

‘I love you too.’

Clinging to the profound happiness on the rooftop of Edenbrook, her eyes fall onto him. He’s smiling. Wider than any other smile she has ever seen, he was happy. He is happy, and she is too. It felt like an ending to a fairy tale where they lived happily ever after, but life is far from it. She lets out a sigh, before burying her head into his shoulder for the night – enjoying the bright lights below them. At this moment, she does not know what lies ahead – however, she knows that the feeling of being on top of the world is the best feeling one could felt.

-

“Have you told your friends about the offer?” The voice of Mr.s Lyxienne booms through the call – somewhat a tone of excitement in her voice of a proud mother.

She shakes her head, as an attempt to tidy up her room before the roommates' dinner to celebrate the board results in an intimate setting than before. The sigh escapes her lips, as she rereads the email.

…offer for a new position… head of the diagnostics team….Arizona. We are looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Regards,

Dr. Donald Reegan.

“Haven’t told them yet mom.” She replies, before minimizing the emails tab. Somehow, the email came a day after the party, after she receives her happily ever after. Its been days since then, as tomorrow is her final day as a resident – and her final chance to make a decision.

Her mom didn’t say a word, somehow knows how hard it was to make a decision.

“I know whatever you decide, they’ll be happy for you Alessia.” Her voice is calm, yet there is a hint of boldness in it.

“I know…”

“I’ll have to go now and whatever happens - we are very proud of you.”

“Thanks, mom, I’ll talk to you soon.” After saying our goodbyes, she immediately changed her outfit for their roomie dinner with the others.

-

She was wearing a suit, somehow, she feels much more comfortable in it along with her Vans slip-on. Her hair was tied into a ponytail, as she was met with the others along with Bryce, Kyra, and Rafael.

She took a seat beside Bryce, as he immediately greeted her with a peck on her cheek – she smiles, somehow it didn’t reach the eyes. He took a second, observing her for a moment before they began to order, with his hands around her giving a gentle squeeze. He knew there was something wrong, yet he didn’t wanna pressure her, and she knows it.

The night goes on, as they reminiscing. Talked about everything from the good, the bad, and everything in between. Alessia smiled throughout it all, forgetting about the offer for a moment, as she was drowned by memories. It has become one of the reasons why she hasn’t made a decision yet, Edenbrook gave her the chance to fulfill her dream, yet – it traumatizes her. The senator’s incident suddenly made an appearance in her mind, letting out a shiver – as Jackie calls out her name.

“Hey, you okay? You zoned out there.” Jackie asked as she took a sip of the drink, all of the eyes fall onto her.

Alessia just shook her head, as a smile plastered on her face.

“I’m just, reminiscing. I just can't believe it's been three years, and our residency is almost done.”

Sienna nods in agreement,

“Hey, we did it. And, I’m happy to go through these adventures with all of you!” She lays her head on Jackie’s shoulder, as they all nod.

“Easy for you to say, I still have an extra year! But, then – I’ll be a big-shot surgeon.” Bryce stated as he smiles smugly before the others let out a laugh.

“So, have all of you thought on what the future after everything?” Rafael asked as both Bryce's and his eyes fall onto all five of them.

There was silence at the table, the thought is still processing. The future is coming very soon for all of them. The silence was drowned by the other diners, hush whispers as Alessia’s words got stuck on her throat, somewhat a feeling of confusion, dread, fear was mushed together into one.

“I think I’ll be leaving Edenbrook – somehow, maybe a new chance to start again without being in my aunt’s shadow again,” Aurora spoke, as the other nods and starts to congratulate her.

“Where will you be going?”

“Mass Kenmore, I feel like I got potential – and maybe lead the diagnostics team there; who knows.”

“Good for you, I think I’ll be staying here for a bit. The research team is quite a safe space for me, and I got Zaid and Baz on my side. I think it's definitely where I belong.” A satisfied smile on Elijah’s face can be seen, as Jackie spoke.

“I think I’ll stay, being chief resident – somehow feels just right. Did I get to boss the interns while doing a good job at it? Hell yes.” Jackie smiles excitedly as the others let out a laugh and a nod in agreement. Jackie was indeed a good chief resident – Sienna clears her throat to gain the other's attention.

“I’ll be staying too. I talked to Dr. Banerji earlier – about…” She paused, as she met Alessia’s eyes who nod supportively from the side.

“Changing my residency. There are times, I feel unhappy especially lately – maybe it’s the pressure but, after rethinking more than a dozen times. I’ll be taking the fast track of residency in peds and, hopefully, retake the board exam once more.” She smiles, proudly – a decision has been made as they all cheer in happiness for Sienna.

-

The table went silent once more, as Kyra shoots the final question her way. Alessia looks stiffened, somehow her tongue was tied, she was hesitant, somehow dreading the decision she has to make.

“I…honestly have no idea yet.” Before stuffing some salmon into her mouth, avoiding the stares at her way. She felt him staring at her as well, his eyes on her with a similar shock expression on his face before he jumps in to save the situation.

“Whatever you’ll be doing, it’ll be a great babe.” He says before placing a kiss on her temple, as the others drop the topic sensing the awkwardness that follows.

She was grateful for the save, as they spend the night away reminiscing again and again.

-

4:39 a.m.

The clock never stops ticking as she stood up from the bed. Bryce is still sound asleep beside her, as she smiles over the sight of him. How much happiness one human being can bring to this world, to her world. How much he lights up her world – the darkness suddenly was lit up by his smile, his encouraging words, his kisses, his hugs, and everything about one Bryce Lahela.

She examines him from afar, as the city of Boston was visible from his apartment window in the living room. A few cars were bustling around town, to begin an early start of the day. The sigh escaped her lips, the decision seems to haunt her once more. 2300 miles away from Edenbrook, from her friends, from…Bryce. It feels like a difficult decision – because she couldn’t imagine being away from him. What life would be like waking without his smile? What life would look like without the laughter of her roommates who have made her time at Edenbrook much worth it? How different it is to not be greeted with Bryce’s kisses at the peak of dawn? All of the thoughts swirling in her mind bring back to a conversation from her first day of the final year of residency.

“I know, we will never change. But, look what Leland did – this is where we are heading Alessia, our life is changing, medicine is changing and we can’t do anything about it. Life is about change – and like Edenbrook it changed alongside us.”

She lets out a breath she is holding upon the revelation from Bryce. It is the truth, and it’s gonna fall upon them anyways somewhere in the future. She wanted to deny but, she knows it’s the whole truth – as her head falls on his shoulders once more.

Bryce pulled her into his embrace, as he slowly strokes her hair – letting out a sigh along the way.

“But, tonight – the future can’t touch us and, we will always going to be us, Bryce and Alessia.” His words were soft and gentle, somewhat an attempt to calm her heart down.

“Tonight, it’s only us and that’s the only thing that I want to know.” Her lips met with his, as they enjoyed the night together talking about everything and nothing – as the feared was buried at the back of their minds. Somehow, it still leaves a bitter taste for them as the truth will come to face them very very soon; but for now… they have tonight.

She shivers at the memory, somehow the change had caught up to her. Change is going to follow them for the rest of their lives – and, if they were lucky; it will still be the same. Yet, she knows it's already different. The change has begun before her thoughts were interrupted by familiar footsteps letting out a yawn.

“Hey, it’s still early – c’mon, let’s get back to sleep.” His voice was hoarse, yet she smiles at the request pushing the thoughts once again as she finally got some sleep. A few hours at the least, before she has to be up for her final day as a resident.

-

Her steps lead her to Dr. Banerji’s office who smiles at her presence, somewhat surprise but content with her sudden arrival to his office.

“Dr. Banerji – I need some advice.”

-

The day went by quickly, as the final patient of the day was checked – and the cases have been handled throughout the day alongside the diagnostics team. She stayed behind, somehow admiring the diagnostics office, a feeling of nostalgia washes through her before her moment was ruined by the arrival of Ethan and Tobias himself – who looked surprised to see her.

“Alessia, good to see you here once again.”

She smiles,

“I know, I’m just admiring this office for the final time – I’m gonna miss this place.” She lets out a sigh, as Tobias smiles.

“Hey, you and me both. But, never be afraid to start again somewhere – because life does works in weird yet rewarding ways.” He winks as Ethan lets out a chuckle.

“You have gotten wiser over the years huh.” Tobias just smiles at the remark before they congratulate her once again – leaving her with the empty room again.

She whispers something to herself, before shutting the lights off in the room.

-

She stared at the offer that lies in front of her, a deep breath follows as she dialed the number. A decision has been made, like a pinch of pain filled her lungs, somehow pulling her to drown, yet she keeps on running.

-

She needed to tell them, needed to tell him. Alessia left her room with the feeling of dread, and fear swirling in her stomach – as she was met with them all laughing together as they were watching one of Elijah’s long list of movies. She took a seat beside Jackie, joining them in the fit of laughter. She is ready to let the truth roll out - well, ready as one will ever be.

“So…I have to tell you guys something.”

There it is – the truth all laid out. A series of ‘why's and clueless looks on their faces. Alessia remains calm for the whole demeanor, somewhat manage to rehearse the speech in her head as the movie plays in the background of her mind.

The room was silent, taking a moment to process it. She was immediately engulfed in a hug from her side, Sienna has her arms around Alessia.

“That’s why you were quiet at dinner right.” A knowing tone in Jackie’s voice, as Alessia nods in response.

“I needed to decide. This was an experience, but – I need to spread my wings. And, Arizona isn’t too far ahead guys. I can visit, maybe Edenbrook and The John Mayo Clinic can work together – and we will be together as always.” She attempted with a cheery tone.

“It wouldn’t be the same – and, that room of yours; will miss its owner.” Jackie points at her room, but she couldn’t help to smile at her.

“Hey, that room will always be yours. Well, as long as Farley allows us to keep it.” They all laugh before Sienna calls a group hug session – a familiar gesture for them all.

“Don’t forget us in the big leagues Alessia,” Aurora stated, as she shook her head. “Never – all of you are too hard to be forgotten” She smiles as they continue to discuss her new position with everything in between – before, the room went quiet once again. Everyone has fallen asleep, as she was wide awake; meeting Elijah who wheels in from the kitchen, somewhat startled at Alessia being awake at this hour.

“Want a cup of tea?” He gestures at the cup he is holding.

“Yes please.” She smiles, as they indulge upon the tea – a comforting silence follows.

“You are leaving soon huh.”

“I guess I am, I just…I feel like it's time.” The words felt painful on the tip of her tongue.

“I wanted to say I’m sorry for how I reacted before about the Dr. Ramsey thing – I shouldn’t have lashed out at you and, I’m sorry.” Elijah sounded genuine, as he smiles at her.

Alessia nods,

“I forgive you, but it still hurts you know.”

He lowers his head, somehow feeling ashamed about the reminder of it,

“Yeah, I feel bad afterward – and, my ego was quite huge at the time. And, I’m very very sorry.”

Alessia returns his smile, as they talked a bit.

“Does Bryce know?” He asked, somewhat with genuine concern.

She shakes her head, letting out a sigh.

“I wanted to tell him, but…we just got our happily ever after here. And, I just…I planned on leaving quietly but, I can’t do that to him.”

“Maybe you should go to him right now, I think he mentions a late shift earlier at the doctor’s lounge.” Elijah pointed out, as Alessia nods – finishing up her tea, and pulls Elijah into a hug.

“Thanks, Elijah.” She was about to leave before Elijah calls her out.

“Hey, Alessia, for what’s it worth - you’ll be okay out there.”

She nods in appreciation, as her foot was set out of the apartment.

-

“Alessia – hey, what’s up!” He greeted her, as she sat waiting for him at the hospital lobby.

“Hey.” She replies as she hugs him, clinging to him – as Bryce lets out a laugh at the sudden gesture which he didn’t push her away.

“Someone’s eager.” He teased her, earning a nudge from Alessia followed by laughter as they walked out of the hospital together.

Their steps fall into a rhythm, as they stopped by a 24-hour bistro; ordering themselves a box of loaded fries – a moment of déjà vu again; as she smiled at the memory. Bryce caught her smiling, as he took a bit of the fries.

“How’s your day been?”

“Nothing much I guess….oh - oh! I scored a major surgery today with Dr. Tanaka earlier – and the patient survives.”

She smiles at his enthusiasm even if it's at 4 in the morning; he managed to make even the saddest of souls smile, that was his power.

“So…what’s up? I mean, I’m not opposed to you visiting me at work or anything – but, this is the time where one should be asleep.” He raised an eyebrow at her, and she took a deep breath.

“We need to talk.” Her friendly tone has become serious, as the four-word which every human dread of hearing somehow become a wake-up call for him, as he sat up straight – the carefree expression has been wiped away with a look of concern, nervousness, and dread in between. She places her hand in his from across the table, giving it a gentle squeeze – calming him down before the truth was set free.

-

He blinked once, twice. As Alessia finished telling him – he was speechless, literally. The silence follows a few moments, somehow he is still searching for the words to say. Yet, all of the words in his mind have vanished. Zip, blink, nada.

She met his eyes, she looked worried, the expression of guilt was written all over her face. He manages a small smile, somehow – he didn’t say a thing. A part of him; still grasping upon the truth.

‘I accepted an offer from the Mayo Clinic at Arizona.’

His throat somehow went dry, as he took a sip of the remaining milkshake. Pulling himself together – and wished he has a guide upon facing these types of situations.

‘Oh..’ Was all that came out of his mouth, somehow…dumbfounded on how to respond to this sudden revelation.

After a moment of silence that follows – the sound of the instrumentals drowns the thoughts along with his hesitations upon the situation. He smiles, he smiles – which didn’t reach the eyes as much as he tries his best to. There was a mix of pride – of course, there was, he was proud of her. He wants her to be the best doctor she could be because she indeed is, it was one of the mantras from their first year.

He remembers the doubt in her voice, as they cling to one another at the on-call room. He looks at her and sees much more than what she sees in herself. And, this…its an opportunity for her. Yet, the sorrow in his heart began to grow; he wants her by his side – to be with him at Edenbrook. He wants to be with her every day, but; life never really gave him what he wants. But, one thing he knows – he is damn proud of her, as the sorrow has vanished in a second; as he stood– opening his arms wide for her, as she immediately sinks into his arms. No words were exchanged, as he kissed on top of her head; he was proud of her; he is – always.

But…

He shakes the thought away, as he holds her there. It felt like home, and he wonders – if she goes away, what would home feel like anymore?

-

He has suddenly been busier, life pulled them apart – excuses were made. She knew he was deflecting, she stopped going to the hospital after her final day ended, as the moving process began.

All of her stuff has been packed, as some were already transported the day her parents came down to Boston. There was a bittersweet feeling upon the situation, as she struggles to get a hold of Bryce. They haven’t seen one another in weeks, as the last day – she left his apartment as he went into work. They didn’t talk, it was a silent night; no words were spoken, as they lay side-by-side. He dreaded the silence, but it felt like the future that will occur to them very soon, he sighs – better get used to it now.

And, that’s the time he last saw her. He has been busying himself with surgeries, requesting extra work to the point where he could be living in the hospital. It was hard for him to face her, the decision was only a few words – yet, the power that came with it. It’s unbearable.

He checked his phone once again, there was a new message from Alessia. He sighs before shoving the phone in his pocket – repeating his whole routine for the rest of the day.

Unfortunately, he has to change and get home every once and a while, and he did after his shift was over. He paused upon his footsteps, as he found Alessia waiting inside. The sad, gloomy expression is obvious – as he remembers, he gave her a spare key if she ever wanted to stay over for the night.

‘Hi.’

-

She stood up from the couch, keys in hand at the sound of the door opening. He looked like he hasn’t slept, as he saw her. It was an unexpected visit for her, as she was supposed to clear her final pile of stuff before it is shipped the next day.

His mouth open, as if to say something – which resulted in an exhausted ‘hi’ towards her way. She nods appreciatively upon the greeting.

‘Bryce, please – why have you been avoiding me?” She blurted out suddenly, the silence is killing her inside.

He didn’t reply, as he took a seat on the couch as she stood in front of him.

“I don’t know - I was busy with the surgeries…” He didn’t continue as Alessia feels a part of her was betrayed.

“Then, it wouldn’t even bother for you to reply to my texts? Or even text me, saying ‘hey, I need to take off some steam’… It's not hard Bryce!” He meets her eyes, somehow a pang of regret over his actions.

“I don’t know okay, it feels like everything is happening so fucking fast, and the fact that you’re leaving soon – I need to breathe. I need to clear my head, I…I can’t face you after that day.” His eyes fall upon his hands, somehow avoiding her eyes.

“Then face me now, tell me everything. Stop running away from me Bryce – as much as I am ready to begin the new journey; I’m dreading till the moment that we have to say goodbye.” She took a seat beside him on the couch, as he finally sees her. He finally meets her eyes, his brown one meeting her green ones. The wave of sadness in his eyes, mirrored with hers. Somehow they both have to say something – and they can't avoid it anymore.

“I…I was scared.” He lets out a light laugh, as she curled her fingers with his squeezing it.

“I never knew this would happen, I met somebody and that person made me feel terrified for once in a while. You made me scared of being without you – it felt like a norm, waking up with you beside me and our nighttime adventures. I…as cheesy as it is…” He laughs, as Alessia laughs along with him – the familiar air started to fill in the room.

“I was scared of not being able to wake up next to you again. My whole life; I have always been my own person – and then I met you. I was scared the shit out of myself on how much a person can mean a lot to me, how one person can change your life in a split second – and change it once more in a snap of a finger; and…I thought about it….” He paused meeting her eyes fully, somehow he was prepared. Weeks without her, made him think – made him wonder, made him realize, and everything in between.

He continues, “I want you to go, I don’t want to stop you cause you deserve the position Alessia. You are one of the best people I know, hence – the best damn doctor I ever know.” His hands land on her cheek, as she felt a tear shed, he smiles sadly over the sentiment wiping the tears away.

Alessia was about to reply before he silences her with a kiss. His forehead meeting hers, somehow – the words that follow, it made her heart happy.

“You deserve to be your person and be where you want to. I’ll always have your back, always have, and always will. I love you Alessia.” She smiles over the affection before she wraps her arms around him – relieved washed in her heart.

“I love you too Bryce…so so much.” She whispers to him, overwhelmed as she smiles again and again until the day she has to leave. She knew Bryce will be there for her always, and she will be there for him. Their story - it was a story for the ages of all ages - and it doesn’t have to stop as the universe was doing their thing; because in the end – if the universe allows them to be together, they will be together, because distance can be damned.

It won’t stop the story of Alessia Lyxienne and Bryce Lahela, because they both are too stubborn to let it go. There will be a pause – but never a stop button, and she is grateful for that, before she leaves Boston, into her new place. It wasn’t home, because home is a heartbeat with two eyes that lives 2300 miles away from her.

‘We got this.’ She whispers, gazing into her new place – as a new chapter begins for one Alessia Lyxienne.

THE END.

a/n: okay, so I'm finally writing something which is to be fair quite late for an open heart tribute - but, hey; despite how shitty it has become, this book will have a special place in my heart. I mean, it started my writing, and well, the rest are history. Bryce Lahela is one of the characters I loved to write and writing his journey with Alessia, is one of the most unexpected things I have ever done, and, well. Their journey is over now in the game, however - deep down I know they are living their lives in a different universe. I also wanna dedicate this to all who have been supporting me from the start even, and a special mention to my gurl nikka, who actually made me not stop writing again, and well, this fic happened! I love everything about this and the whole experience, and I think I won't stop just yet...but, the future is always uncertain. But, I know I have a good time for the last year of doing this. Thank you <3

tags:

@bitchloveskcbaseball , @mvalentine , @storyofmychoices , @princess-geek , @lahellacute ,   @annekebbphotography , @dcbbw , @choicessa , @fantasyoverreality98 , @baltersome , @ofpixelsandscribbles , @thundergom @starrystarrytrouble  @kelseaaa, @choicesficwriterscreations, @lalizah, @drethanramslay, @eleanorbloom, @openheartfanfics , @brycesgirl,  @freckles-spangledvampire, @agentnolastname, @adriansbiss , @appiomofchoice, @ariondevereux, @natureblooms24 , @robintora (comment if you want to be tagged or removed 💜💜)

[everyhowlmarksthedead]

❛ TWO ROADS ❜

with Canche and Obispo ‘Bishop’ Losa.

Warnings: none.

Word count: 2k.

Aurora says: this writing hasn't been edited, you may find some grammar mistakes, I'm sorry about that!

Gif credits: to my wonderful @sonsofeorl ✨

Masterlist. You can subscribe to my broadcast list, to be notified whenever I post a writing!

“Please, don't do that. Let me go”. With both hands raised to the man, you tried to push him away.

“No”. He just said with a naughty smile drawn on his lips, before grabbing your wrists to lift you up over his shoulder like a heavy bag, walking to the main room of the house.

“Let me go!” You shouted stirring over him, until you felt your body falling down over the mattress.

Sitting up on your forearms, you blow into a rebellious tuft of hair in the middle of your face, frowning. You couldn't barely breathe because of the efforts, watching the man crawling above the bed.

“I swear I'm gonna kill you”.

“Will you?” He asked, twisting his neck slightly, pouncing on you to tickle you on both sides.

“Canche, stop!” You screamed between laughs, trying to catch his hands while he made himself some space between your legs.

“C'mon, five minutes more, princesa de los Mayas”. The mexican surrounded you with his strong arms, resting his face on your stomach.

“My father is gonna kill us, if he finds out”.

“Just five minutes more”. He begged almost in a whisper, closing his eyes.

“I hate you”. You growled rolling your eyes, pretending that you didn't want to spend some time more together.

“I'm glad to know that it's something reciprocated”. The Mayan muttered, moving some inches until reaching your lips.

Tangling your legs with his and placing your hands on his head, you deepened the kiss, keeping the slow pace but welcoming his tongue inside your mouth. Every time you were this close, he had the same effect on you like the first time, bristling your skin and needing for more. You could assure that he was so in love with you, as you were with him. And you would like to shout it to the rooftops. But that wasn't an option. Not for the moment, at least.

“I know that… you can't call me”. You said caressing his neck with one of your hands, using your nails to made him some sweet tickles. “But… two weeks is too much. Maybe… I don't know… a text, to know that you're okay”.

“I will try, mi amor. I swear it”. He replied with a low tone of voice, accommodating his head on the pillow. “And when I come back, we will disappear for some days. We can go to the beach, if you want”.

“Sounds good, yeah”. You nodded assorted on the way of his lips moving, totally spellbound hearing his voice.

The man took back his hands to undone the clasp of the fine gold chain, with a small medal of the Virgen de Guadalupe. Silent, and very focused on his new task, he placed it around your neck. You knew how much he loved that necklace, being a gift from his mother who passed away some years ago. Giving it to you meant more than anyone could imagine, and you would swear you were about to cry if he hasn't kissed you again.

You have never been a believer, but you started to pray every night for him, to keep him safe and alive. It has been two long weeks, with a trip that started in Southern Cali to Stockton and Oakland, continuing to Portland. And after that, back to Santo Padre. One of the trips more dangerous of Mayans history, with a shipment of AK-47, even if they were accompanied by some SOA charters. But the day of their return has come and, with it, all your men. At least, you know it when you see through the front window of your car all the bikes parked there. The first you find is your father's. Next to it, Canche's.

Almost jumping out from your seat, you run like never before to the inside of the clubhouse. But the situation that welcomes you is chaotic. You open the door on time to watch Bishop tackling your boyfriend. A storm of hits and kicks is around everywhere, while the other Mayans stare at you almost frowning. You don't need to be a genius to know what is happening. Grabbing Ibarra's gun, being aware that no one is going to stop the fight, you point at the roof to fire it. The bullet impacting on it, calls everyone's attention. The two men on the floor are breathing violently, blood on their faces and angry gestures. Then, you point at them.

“The next one throwing a punch, juro por la Virgen that I'm gonna shot his brain off”.

The men separate from each other, standing up over their feet and shaking their clothes.

“How much time have you been together?” Your father asks, cleaning a brief red thread flowing from his bottom lip. His eyes are filled with rage.

“Why does it matter, dad?”

“Because I asked you for one last thing, and you shitted on it”.

“Do you think I made it on purpose? That I chose it?”

“You betrayed me. And you lied to me”.

“For God's sake… Ain't gonna talk about it in front of all these men”.

“We don't have anything else to talk about. You already took a decision”.

You just nod, one time. Stretching your arm to Ibarra, you give him back his gun.

“Doing the same shit that your mother did”.

His whisper doesn't go unnoticed to your ears, taking a step ahead when he's about to unlock himself inside the Templo.

“You pushed mom away, just like you are doing with me. If you are alone, if you are losing the only people who really love you, it's because of you, padre. Because of your jealousy, because of your inflexibility, because of your egocentrism complex”.

Bishop doesn't turn, but suddenly stops his heavy feet.

“(Y/N), don't talk to your father like that”. Canche says, frowning at you.

“Truth fucks you up, right?” You say raising your chin. “Love doesn't mean to hurt, dad. And sometimes I feel that you stab my chest. That you suffocate me. I feel alone the whole time, and you don't really know what it feels like, because I'm always by your side. But you weren't for me when I needed you the most. So don't blame me for choosing a man who cares about me, without asking anything back, over you”.

It has been the worst weeks of your life. You were sure that you were suddenly and inevitably falling into a dark depression, when you realized that you haven't gone out of Canche's house since you came. Mostly, you are tucked in his bed, grabbing the pillow as strongly as you can, wetting it with your tormented tears. A prospect was accompanying you all the time that your boyfriend was away from your side.

“How is the kid?”

Taza gets up from his chair, before Canche can leave the Templo. He turns around crossing his arms over his chest.

“Who asks?”

No one replies.

“She isn't happy, if you wanna know it”. His eyes are on Bishop's. “She cries most of the day. Hardly eats anything. And I can't remember how her laugh sounds”.

Your boyfriend is about to continue his steps, but he stops again.

“And I had to take her to the hospital some days ago, because she has a panic attack”.

“Maybe if you di—”.

“Don't you dare to add me in your equation, Bishop. This is your fault, not mine. I care about her. I love her. And I want to spend my life with her. I'm not trying to steal your daughter from you. I'm not asking her to leave you. I was even about to delegate my position as Presidente, and ask for a change of charter to be close to her. To come to Santo Padre, so she wouldn't have to leave her family”. His voice sounds firmly, blunt. “You are losing your daughter because of you, not because of me”.

Canche doesn't want to waste more time, having a road of one hour and a half to his house. The only thing he wants right now is come back, be with you, and try to comfort your pain somehow. So he doesn't notice that the crew follows him to the outside, in the meantime that he reaches his motorcycle.

His way back home feels like an eternity, parking in front of the porch, and almost jumping out from the top of it. The prospect is waiting close to the door, shrugging his shoulders to let him know that nothing has changed. You heard the door getting opened, turning your head over the pillow, watching him coming into the room. You would like to smile, as every time you see him, but it's like if your brain doesn't send the order to your lips. Lying down and embracing you over the mattress, filling your face with a bunch of kisses.

“I've missed you, mi vida”. He whispers onto your lips, before caressing them. “I took a day off, so I will be here with you the whole time”.

You can't help but sink your face under his chin, letting him hold you tightly. That's the only moment you feel somewhat better, knowing that he's not going to kick out your ass. Knowing that he loves you unconditionally.

“How was him?” You whisper.

“Fucked like you”. He just replies, kissing your head. “But I know that he's going to come today, you will see. I know it”.

He wasn't wrong. Actually, Canche is never wrong. You suddenly wake up because of the loud roar of an engine. It's coming closer, accentuating over others behind it. The bed is empty, and the room is almost in darkness. Rubbing your eyes with your knuckles, you get up from the mattress, guiding your steps to the living room as soon as you hear your boyfriend greeting your father. Sticking your head out the corner of the hallway, your eyes find him before anyone else there. He looks like shit. His beard is longer, scruffy. The two black marks under his eyes tell you that he hasn't slept much more than you.

Canche moves his head in silence, indicating the crew to leave the house, so you would have some intimacy and time alone. Bishop takes a step ahead, trying to reach you, trying to say something. But he can't. Doubting, he walks a little closer. Slowly. Hoping that you don't turn him down. Raising a hand towards your left, he holds it to push you into his arms. Surrounding your body, he hugs you with that kind of love and warmth that only your father can transmit you. All the sadness and the pain has gone. The fear of losing him, inside your chest, isn't oppressing it anymore.

“I'm sorry”. He says in a whisper, tightening his grip around you.

“Me too…”

“You don't have to, because you were right. This is my fault, mi princesa”.

He pulls himself away from you, enough to find your reddened eyes, about to cry again.

“I know you have to leave the nest, but I'm not ready. And I will never be. But if you have to do it, I'm good knowing that Canche is by your side”.

Leaning, your father kisses your forehead, pressing his lips on it for some long seconds.

“Just let me take care of you tonight, please”.

You just nod in silence. You couldn't say ‘no’. You need him, you didn't know it could be this hard to live without him. It's not the same when he's on a trip, than when he's just away from you. Closing your arms around him, you hide your face on his chest, like you used to do when you were a child waking up from a nightmare.

“I will always love you, pa'. No matter who else is in my life. I will always love you more than anyone”.

“I know, princesa. I do. And I will always do it”.

[imnotwolverine]

LOVE IS LIKE - Women and Wine

< PART 2 | PART 3 Women and Wine

Summary: Things don’t always go as planned. But Henry has learned that’s quite alright. If anything, it may just make you closer to loved ones. Also, the banana sock wearing princess is her clumsy-as-ever self. 

Word count: 2.178

Disclaimer: Breakup, teenage insecurity, fluff and wet dicks. I mean. In the fluffy awkward sense of the word. 

--

LOVE IS LIKE - Women and Wine

--

‘So far for an outdoor date.’ Aurora scrunched up her nose and looked down at Kal who didn’t pay any mind to the drizzle, nose sniffling through some bushes.

‘Sorry..’ Henry pouted, making her laugh.

‘You know, my apartment isn’t far from here. We can dry off, have some tea? I mean..’ She hesitated, looking back to Henry who got a particularly large drop of rain in his eye.

‘Mmpfff.’ He groaned, wiping furiously at his eye.

‘OH! Are you alright?’

Kal looked up and Henry chuckled. ‘So your initial reservations of not wanting to meet at someone’s place are...gone?’

She shrugged. ‘Drastic times, drastic measures. Come on!’

Kal yapped in agreement and Aurora laughed heartily, the heaven’s cold tears of rainwater not bothering her one bit.

‘Why..?’ The woman who had once kept his heart sobbed, thick tears rolling down her sweet cheeks. Henry swallowed as he clutched her hand a little tighter, her whole body shaking with agony. With every tear on her face he was less sure if he made the right decision.

‘Why don’t you love me?’ Her wine-red lip trembled. ‘Did I..’ She sniffed and burst into another onslaught of tears. Henry sighed quietly. Why did love have to be so hard? With a quick glance he looked at Kal who was lying in the corner of the living room, careful eyes looking back at his owner after he had been told off by the woman - the two had never quite gotten along.

Perhaps that had been a sign.

Henry waited for his mom to pick up the phone. It was Sunday, it was raining in London and he had nothing better to do then..

‘Hello dear.’

‘H-hi mom.’ Henry quickly clicked back to the flower webshop on his browser.

‘Are you alright dear?’

Henry laughed - even after all these years his mother was straight to business when her children called. ‘Mommm…’

‘What?! You never call so early in the day. I can remember the days when you called every hour of..-’

‘Mom, I’m fine.’

‘Alright alright. So there’s nothing the matter?’

‘Nothing. Or well, I just wanted to check if you’re home on Thursday, so your package won’t get lost like last time.’

‘Oh.. OH! Mother’s day. Henry sweetie. You know you don’t have to buy me flowers every year.’

‘And yet I do it anyway, mom.’

Marianne laughed before the line crackled, her voice hushed as she spoke to someone else - probably his father. ‘Alright. Oh! You are too good for me! Also, Colin’s at home. I’m picking up Nick’s cat, since they’re going on a holiday. So no lillies please!’

‘Noted.’ Henry stared at the pictured bouquet on his screen and smiled. 100 roses. ‘No lilies, got it.��

With a confirmative nod he pressed “order”.  

‘And say hi to dad for me!’

Awkwardly tugging at the far too tight and strange looking noose of a knot around his neck, young Henry waited for his father to answer his phone. Nerves were tickling his loins and the more he looked back at the reflection in the mirror, the redder he seemed to get. He had seen his father tie a tie a million times, and yet doing it himself left him suffocating and disappointed in his own abilities.

‘Henry boy.’ His father’s low voice crackled through the bad phone line. He was probably abroad right now.

‘Pa..’ Henry tugged at the tight material around his slim neck.

‘How’s it hanging, hmm?’ -- Colin tried his best to stay hip and cool, but it only made conversations between him and his sons more awkward. Henry silently rolled his eyes.

‘Ehm…’ He cleared his throat, wishing that for once his voice wouldn’t get pitchy mid-sentence. ‘I--’ He pulled at his tie again and managed to let the knot slide out like it had never been there at all. ‘I need your help dad.’

‘Something the matter? Henry, you know you can ask Mr. Mindel for help.’

‘Yea well..eh..I want to learn it myself.’ He squared his shoulders as he looked at his mirror reflection again.

‘And what is..”it” exactly?’ A mix of mirth and pride was heard in his father’s voice.

‘A tie. I’m..I’m trying to get this stupid thing on and ..’ Henry voice got pitchy and unleveled again and he groaned in annoyance.

Colin chuckled and hushed his teenage son. ‘Alright alright. First step..’

With a trained tug at the knot, Henry released the silk tie from his neck. Perhaps it had been a bit over-the-top to wear a suit and tie when going out for lunch and walk Kal with Aurora. But Henry just couldn’t help himself. These clothes just made him feel powerful and secure. Like a modern day armor, shining, sleek and - right now - also terribly uncomfortable and wet.

They had been caught by one of London’s infamous rain showers and had been soaked to the bone. Suit included.

Removing his tie, Henry let his eyes glide over Aurora’s cosy but luxurious apartment, Kal trotting behind Aurora as she ducked into one of the closets in the hallway to fetch some fresh towels.

‘You want one as well, hmm?’

Henry looked up and noted that she wasn’t talking to him, but Kal, the dog happily wagging his tail as he pushed his nose in the fresh towels in her hands. She laughed.

‘Alright then.’ With a quick swoop she pulled another towel from the closet before bumping it closed with her hip, offering one of the towels to Henry who accepted it graciously.

‘Shall I see if there’s some clean clothes that ..fit...you?’ She looked him up and down, obviously unsure whether ANYTHING would fit the colossal form of bulking muscle that was Henry. Henry shrugged.

‘I’ll keep this on if you don’t. Don’t worry.’ He smirked perhaps a bit too temptingly.

They both laughed and Aurora turned around before he could see the blush on her smiling cheeks.

Left alone in the hallway, Henry dried his face and hair, removed his jacket and sauntered over to the living area, which reminded him in a strange way of the 70s decor of some other woman’s home. Letting his eyes glide over the furniture he smiled; large leather couch with a bounty of pillows, Pilea pancake plants, the tiniest tv he probably had seen in his long life and then on the long wall on his right, one absolutely hu-freaking-mongous bookcase.

Turning his attention to said bookcase, he let his eyes roam over the more empty shelves, finding a book he knew well; it once had been his. But there was also her copy. The berry juice ruined one. King Arthur and His Knights. With curiosity Henry opened her berry ruined book, not sure what to find there other than exactly the same exact text. His eye fell on the personal note that was scribbled on the inside. Apparently it had been gifted to her.

‘To the woman who “doesn’t need no knights in shining armour”. Andy.’

‘I eh..oh!’ Aurora shrivelled away as she found Henry. Henry quickly shut the cover of the book, near stumbling back as he tried to apologise for snooping around.

‘I’m sorr-’

‘Sorry!’ She looked away. 

‘No I’M sorry, truly.’

‘No.’ Aurora shook her head and her voice sounded terribly queasy. ‘I’m sorry. Here. Hope it fits.’ She pushed a pile of what looked like a white shirt and jogging pants in Henry’s arms with a quick little glance in Henry’s blue eyes.

Did he fuck it up? Looking with a pained expression at the soft white and grey fabrics in his hands he sighed, forgetting all about his wet clothes and the way a little stream of water was running straight into his butt crack right this instant.

‘I didn’t mean to..snoop.’ He tried, but Aurora shied away even further, making a clear demonstration of turning away from Henry.

‘Aurora? Will you forgive me please?’

Aurora nodded with her head still firmly turned away.

‘Will you at least look at me?’

And then, with the slowest of head turns in human history, one beet red head looked back at him, lips biting to keep a chuckle at bay. Henry frowned, before realising that he had completely, utterly miscalculated the situation. She was not mad at him, she was.. With a slight slip Aurora’s eyes moved back down - before quickly shooting back up and away. So that was it huh? She was trying to look anywhere but to the very clear outline of his …

Dick.

--

So this is why men don’t partake in wet T-shirt contests.

‘Oh my gods!!--’

‘It’s like sugar--’

‘TURN IT OFF.’

‘So sweet.’

‘HEN.’

‘Good enough..’

‘HENRY.’

‘..to eat.’

Grumbling a hand appeared from beneath the fluffed up blankets, searching blindly for the phone that was blaring out happy tunes into the dark bedroom. In the background a shower was heard, Henry totally oblivious to his very displeased bedbug.

Turning off the hot stream of water, Henry wrapped himself in a towel, hair dripping wet as he brushed a hand over his cheek to check if it could do for the moment. Geralt could have a little stubble right? He grinned at himself in the mirror and made for the bedroom, silent feet padding to reach for his gym gear like he did every morning.

‘Baaaabeeeeeee.’ A groggy voice that in no way fit his pretty girlfriend erupted from the sheets. Henry halted his tiptoeing.

‘Your phoneeeeeee.’

‘OH! oh.. Sorry.’ Henry bit his lip as the groggy voice mimicked in horrid echo:

‘All I wanna do is get ye

Body next to mineeee.’

Henry chuckled as the sheets folded back a little so a grabby hand could reach for him.

‘Haha..oh why love, I’m WET.’

‘AS AM I. Now get in here.’ The blindly grabbing hand searched like a needy worm for anything it could attach to, making Henry chuckle even harder.

She truly was atrociously cute in the morning. With a quick flip of the hand he managed to slip back under, making the room echo with a loud squirming squeak.

‘HENRY.. YOu!’

The both of them laughed.

With a little kick in his step Henry stepped into his parent’s kitchen, the rural stone tiled room filled with the smell of fresh baking pastry and female chatter.

‘A rose..’ He pulled one of his hidden away hands from behind his back to offer a rose to his mother. ‘For my dear mom.’

Marianne chuckled and rolled her eyes at Henry’s antics, before smiling even wider when the other hand served an even prettier rose to the brunette with the princess name. Aurora snorted out with laughter.

‘YOU DORK!’

Henry gasped in mock-hurt and grasped for his chest. ‘My heart, my love! Why must thee hurt it so.’

Aurora stepped in and pressed a little kiss on Henry’s pouting lips. ‘For love cometh of the heart and not by constraint.’ She smiled and smelled the rose ‘..for love is free.’

Marianne chuckled. ‘Well it’s from the garden, so I guess it’s free. Can you call your dad for me? Lunch is almost ready.’

‘Why of course I can mother dear!’

Marianne widened her eyes, urging him to move on. Henry laughed and winked at Aurora before he made his way to the back of the house.

‘These men of ours. They wouldn’t know what to do without us.’

Aurora leaned into the kitchen counter and smiled. ‘It takes a lot to make a man. Tis true. But I do think Henry is a man enough on his own.’

‘You do?’

‘You raised him well you -- all of you did.’

‘Two books?’ Aurora frowned as she pulled the books from their pretty packaging. Henry was beaming with a smile from ear to ear.

‘The same exact..books?’

Henry nodded eagerly.

‘Hen..I know I might be a little clumsy, but…’

‘Nooo no. I thought..’ He scooted a little closer to her on the couch, making Kal grumble who had just found the perfect spot atop Henry’s feet. ‘I thought we could read together. On the plane? It’s a long way to Canada.’

Aurora flipped open the cover of the book on top, shrugging that Henry might have a point, before letting her eyes roam over the little note written in the inside of the cover page.

‘Careful with that berry juice, princess. x. Henry’

‘Youuu…’ Aurora moved to jab at Henry, but he managed to reflect her hand with practised ease.

‘Me?’ He grinned.  

‘Oh yes you.’

‘What about me?’ His smile grew wider.

Aurora shook her head then sighed in defeat. ‘Alright then. You win.’

‘I win?’ Henry acted overly victorious and smug.

Aurora’s smile melted away. ‘I..’ She swallowed. ‘-I think I love you. I wanted to say it when I meant it an--’

Henry’s smile dropped as well, eyes widening.

‘You..? You mean..’

‘You have to kiss me now okay? I mean..that’s what princes do when..--’

Henry didn’t skip a beat. 

And good gods did they kiss a lot. 

--

Also: good gods, who in their right minds places red wine on the edge of the couch seating with a pristine looking book like that nearby? Let’s just say the plane ride to Canada only had one copy of Pride & Prejudice - The Illustrated Edition on-board. 

--

End. 

--

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@beck07990

[aestheticseungmean]

changbin angst where hes getting married to someone but on the wedding day he sees ex girlfriend reader w their 3yo daughter (he left before they knew she was pregnant) and the rest is up to you:(??

Aurora-Changbin

Synopsis- Changbin left you for a new love but what happens when you interrupt his wedding with a surprise.

Angst and fluff... I got carried away

5.3k words

Warning: cussing that’s it.

This was requested. Thank you to the person who requested, I tried to make it angsty towards the end

Unedited

——————————————————————————

Some things were not meant to be. It was clear to you, to Changbin, and to everyone around you that you two were not meant to be. Never was. You both tried so hard in the relationship to make it work but he fell in love with another girl. Someone from his work. “Changbin, can we talk?” He ignored you, too busy smiling at his texts. “I have to tell you something important.” He said as he looked up at you. You sat down ready to listen, waiting patiently to talk to him about your relationship. “I’m in love with someone else…” Despite knowing that you two didn’t harbor feelings for each other, you still couldn’t help the tears that stung your eyes. “Oh…” That was the only thing you could manage out. You felt sick to your stomach and your news was long gone by now.

“I’m leaving tomorrow.” Changbin sighed out as he hugged you. It was just a friendly hug. The tears spilling from your eyes now, wet the shoulder of his shirt. “I wish you well.” You truly did. You wished Changbin well with his newfound love and all things in the future. He spent the rest of the night comforting you and packing. While you sat on the bed watching him, he was packing quickly, happy that you were being so understanding. “I’m setting this by the front door so I don’t wake you when I leave.” “So you are leaving before I get up?” Changbin nodded and you sighed. Might as well say your goodbyes now. “Changbin, this has been an interesting relationship and I’ve had fun. I hope that she loves you too because you are a great guy. I wanted to say my goodbye to you now so...goodbye.” Changbin smiled and wished you goodbye as well before laying down to sleep.

The morning sun peeked through the curtains and you looked longingly at the empty spot next to you. You had been up for an hour now, not being able to go back to sleep. The bed seemed comforting despite being cold without Changbin’s warm body next to you. In reality, you didn’t want to get up and see the empty half of the closet and the random producing gear not there. It was normal for you to have someone living with you. A sigh left your lips as you sat up. The hunger for food forced you to the kitchen to make some noodles. “I have to get used to being alone, Ziggy.” You said, talking to your brother’s cat who was meowing for you to feed him. “See, if Minho would stop taking in random cats then he might have room for you.” A small laugh slipped from your lips as she dove head first into the food. You grabbed your own food and took a bite only to rush to the bathroom to throw it back up.

You weren’t sick. There was no way. You hadn’t left the house in the past month due to getting laid off and Changbin didn’t get sick. That’s when it hit you. A few weeks ago, Changbin was feeling extra stress and you opted to help him relieve his tension. It led to a long steamy night that was platonic. You rushed to slip on your coat and your shoes, running out the door not bothering to lock it. Your neighbor was a mean woman who had a reputation of hitting people, no one dared to commit a crime in your area. The shop was open and you looked at the choices of pregnancy tests. “I’d recommend grabbing one of at least three different brands dear.” You looked to find a woman in her early thirties who seemed to have been through this process before. “I’ve been in that same position. It’ll be scary at first but you’ll love it later.” Grabbing three tests, you thanked her and checked out.

Back at home, it was a waiting game. You slumped to the floor when all three came back positive. It was definite. You were pregnant. Changbin didn’t pick up when you called, in fact, the phone didn’t even ring. Minho texted asking if everything was alright, something about sibling telepathy.You found out, Changbin had blocked your number and blocked all mutuals. Now you were stuck to grow and raise a child on your own. “Minho. I need you here.” Your voice was shaky and urgent. “I’m on my way.” He didn’t bother knocking knowing that you wouldn’t answer. Instead he rushed straight to your bedroom to find you huddled up in a ball. “Are you okay? I’ll go punch him for blocking you.” “I’m pregnant.” That was all you could say and Minho fumbled for his phone to call Changbin. “Don’t. He doesn’t want me in his life anymore.” “He should still know. It’s his kid too.” Minho dropped it after you shook your head again. “He made his decision.”

——————————

The following weeks were spent over the toilet in the morning and searching for a temporary job through the day. Somehow, some way, you had to find a way to make some money to support your kid. Eventually, you stepped into a small tattoo parlour, the smell of gel deodorant overwhelming your senses. Surprisingly, you didn’t get nauseous at the smell unlike the coffee shop. “Hello, may I help you?” A familiar woman in her mid twenties came to the front. You recognised her immediately. “Lisa!” “Wow, _____! I didn’t recognise you for a minute.” You laughed and agreed that you have changed quite a bit. “How is Changbin?” “He’s gone now. Found a new love.” Lisa offered you a kind, sympathetic smile. “Well, I hope you are doing well. Let’s sit down and talk, it’s lunch anyways.”

The two of you caught up, gossiping about everything that’s happened since High School. “So he left you pregnant?” Her face was contorted in disgust conveying her annoyance. “I didn’t find out until he left.” “I swear, I’m going to hit him really hard. The nerve he has to block you after that.” Your laugh echoed through the parlour at your friend’s support for you. “So you never told me why you were here.” “Oh, yeah. Do you think you could get me a job here? I just need something that I can do to make money. Even if it is cleaning toilets or something like that.” Lisa beamed wide at you. “I’m not putting you at the toilets. That’s disgusting. We have been short staffed in the tattoo section since our front desk person quit and I was forced to the front.” You could work at the front desk. “When do I start?” “Tomorrow.”

The day went by fast and you found yourself laying in bed for the night feeling giddy that you found a job. Minho of course was the first one to know about it and he congratulated you. “I’ve been wanting a tattoo. Where did you say you work again?” “The tattoo parlour down by the candy shop.” You could hear the distant sounds of scribbling on paper over the phone. “I’ll be there tomorrow.” Before you could protest, Minho had already hung up. “Why is he like this?” Ziggy meowed and curled up next to you, falling asleep. You sighed and plugged in your phone soon doing the same. Maybe you can do this by yourself. Yeah, you can. There’s no maybe about it. With Lisa and Minho by your side, you had this in the bag.

Your morning went by smoothly, aside from the cat knocking you down. Lisa smiled at you as you entered the store. “Hey, babes. Ready for today?” “As ready as I can get.” She showed you the ropes and introduced you to the two other tattooists. “This is San. He’s the best at colored tattoos. And this is Jongho who’s the best at the chromatic tattoos. I am the best at lining I guess.” Lisa shrugged and you kept the information in your mind. You still had an hour before the store opened so you decided to talk to the others and get to know them before setting up your area. At eight o’clock sharp the bell rang and you looked up. You laughed a little as you watched the figure walk up to the desk. “Don’t you know it’s mean to laugh at potential customers.” “Sorry, Minho. What brings you here today?” Your brother smiled at you before explaining the type of tattoo he wanted. “Okay, I’ll get one of our tattooists to draw it out and get you inked up.”

His face dropped when he saw you bring Lisa out. “Lisa?“ “Minho!” You laughed as they talked while she drew a small cat for him. “Let’s go to the back.” The shop was quiet as you waited for customers to enter. “You look bored.” You jumped as Jongho came up beside you to sit down. He smiled and took out a sketchbook. “The mornings are usually quiet like this. Everyone is at work.” “It makes for good drawing time, too. We can create new tattoos or inspire other designs.” San added while grabbing another chair to sit on the other side. “You guys drew all these by yourselves?” You asked in amazement as you looked at the drawings that were scattered and framed around the room. “Most of them. Some came from our mentors.” Each drawing was carefully sketched and lined with love for the work. Your gallery view ended when Minho came out with tears in his eyes.

“Why’d you let me do that? It hurt.” The boys snickered while you sighed. “As I recall, you were the one that wanted it.” “No remorse for your older brother. I gave you my love and siblingship and you give me no respect.” Minho was always dramatic when he was in pain. You swore up and down that Shakespeare would be jealous. “Suck it up, buttercup!” “Ugh.” You rang him out and laughed as he mumbled about something random on his way out. “Your brother is funny.” “He’s dramatic, San. I can’t with him sometimes.” The clock ticked by slowly and the boys kept you company while they drew. The bell rang announcing a new customer. “Hi, I need a tattoo.” You smiled at the customer who was a girl that couldn’t be older than nineteen. The bell rang again, an older woman entered behind her. “Did you already talk to the lady for a tattoo.” “Yes, mom. I was trying to.”

After looking around, the girl decided she wanted a flower tattoo on her hip. “Can you do it?” She asked you. “It’s nothing against you guys but I’d feel more comfortable with a girl.” “I don’t do tattoos but my friend Lisa can.” Soon, the others became busy as more customers came in. The buzzing sound of the tattoo guns soothed you. The door opened revealing a taller man, about 5’10. Instantaneously, you were mesmerised. “Excuse me?” He waved his hand in your face. “I’m sorry.” “Is San busy?” You blinked, trying to remember if he was. “Yes, he is. Do you need a tattoo?” “Yes, I do. I guess I am early for my appointment.” Your finger scanned down the appointment book until you found the 5 o'clock slot. “Seonghwa?” He nodded. “San should be done soon.”

You were correct. San finished up his client quickly and took in Seonghwa while the other customer paid. Jongho finished quickly after and joined you. “Looks like Seonghwa is here?” You nodded surprised that he knew the customer. “You know him?” “He’s been getting tattoos for a year now.” Seonghwa didn’t seem like he was the type to get tattoos. “Really? He looks like this was his first time.” “Nope.” Jongho told you more about Seonghwa. “He really has a sleeve tattoo?” Now that you think about it, he was wearing a coat when he came in. “Yep. He’s working on the other arm now so he comes in at least once a month.” It was silent for a few minutes until Jongho spoke up. “Do you have any tattoos?” You shook your head. “No but I want one.” “What kind?” He tilted his head, curiously looking at you like a puppy would.

“A sunflower. It reminds me of the little girl I used to be.” Jongho smiled and nodded. “That’s a cute idea. It suits you.” “Do you have tattoos?” The boy nodded and unbuttoned some of his shirt to show the tattoo that cascaded over his chest. You looked in awe at his tattoos, almost reaching out to touch them but stopping yourself from embarrassment. “They’re so pretty!” “San-hyung did them.” The detail was immaculate. “Are you stripping down for her or something?” The two of you turned to see San and Seonghwa walk out. The tattoo that was freshly done, was covered up and you frowned. However, you did notice it was down towards the front of the forearm. Jongho looked anything but embarrassed about the ordeal. “She asked if I had tattoos.” “Does she have any?” You shook your head no before he could answer. “She’s a tattoo virgin! If you get a tattoo, you have to let me do it.” San pleaded while the rest laughed.

It was well into the night when the parlour closed. You cursed yourself for not bringing a coat and walking here. The air nipped at your skin as soon as you stepped outside. “Hey! Don’t think you aren’t going anywhere without protection.” You squinted into the dark to see Lisa emerging with Jongho. “I’m fine.” “You’re pregnant. You’re not fine.” That’s how you found yourself walking home with Jongho. When you stepped in front of your apartment door, you could hear the neighbour screeching. “I don’t think it’s safe here. That right there sounds scary.” “She’s just a little, old, mean lady.” His face scrunched up. “Those are the worst.” “I hope it isn’t that far to your home from here.” Sighing slightly and shook his head. “It’s only a few blocks opposite of the parlour.” “Jongho. Why don’t you come in for dinner. As a thank you and so you can warm up, your nose is red.”

He smiled and you worked on dinner. Jongho found himself playing with your cat while looking at the plethora of pictures on the wall. A few of you and Minho, a few of you and Changbin, a few of you, and a few of Minho. A laugh escaped his lips as he looked at a picture of you where you shaved your eyebrows off. “What are you laughing at in here?” When you saw where his gaze was directed, you yelled and pulled it off the wall. “I already saw it.” “It stops from further embarrassment.” A little bit later you served dinner. “Mmm. You know who would like this even more than me?” “Who?” He took another bite, relishing all the flavors. “San and Seonghwa.” “Do you think either of them will take leftovers?” Yes, he nodded. “Is Seonghwa even going to be there tomorrow?” Once again, Jongho nodded. “He’s getting a tattoo cover up on his other arm?” “What is he? Rich?” Jongho laughed. Tattoos were pricey, even small ones were. “I don’t know.”

Jongho left your apartment full and happy. Somehow, he squirmed his way into doing the dishes for you. “It’s the least I can do since you made me food.” He had argued with you for ten minutes until you gave in to him. The small tupperwares were filled with the food and ready to go tomorrow. You decided that you wanted to freshen yourself up. A nice long shower warmed you up and prepared you for sleep. It had been a long day at the tattoo shop and you enjoyed it but it left you sore. Ziggy curled up on your chest and purred. “That tickles.” You giggled out making the cat meow at you for moving. “Okay, okay. Sorry.” With the cat on top of you, you slowly drifted to sleep. Somehow, you didn’t move all night while sleeping and neither did the cat so when you woke up you winced in pain.

When you looked in the mirror to check out your outfit, you noticed your stomach protruding a bit more than usual. “I need to set up an appointment to go to the doctor. Just to make sure you are healthy.” You decided on a simple loose sweater today, not wanting to make the same mistake as yesterday. The shop was warm when you walked in, a sign that someone had been there for a while. “Hey, sunflower!” “Who-oh hey, San.” His sleeves were rolled up while he cleaned and you could see the tattoos residing on his arm. “You seemed to be fascinated by tattoos there, sunflower.” “They are so cool. The amount of work that goes in it is impeccable.” San smiled and helped you put your lunch in the fridge. You decided to stand today instead of sit by the cash register. “You look tense.” “I’m sore.” San grabbed a painkiller and gave it to you. “Here. You need it. People are going to be scared if you are squaring up to them.”

—————————————

Months passed by and you fell in love with the parlour. San, Jongho, Lisa, and even Seonghwa have begun to feel like a family to you. Seonghwa even came in early just to talk to you. Sometimes he’d come in on days he didn’t get tattoos just to hang out. This day wasn't any different. The door opened showing Seonghwa walking in. You went to greet him when you stopped and stared. He wasn’t in his normal leather jacket with a random rock band t-shirt, rather now, he was in a plain white sleeveless shirt. Finally, you could see the tattoo collection he’s been working on. “You’re staring, Sunflower.” You jumped as San came up behind you to greet Seonghwa. In return, Seonghwa smirked at you getting called out. “I’ll be right back, hyung.” He nodded and watched as San made his way to his area to disinfect.

“You looked lost, princess.��� Heat rose to your cheeks at the simple nickname. “I-I like your tattoos.” “Thanks.” While San took his sweet time, Seonghwa teased you endlessly. “So I heard you went to the doctor yesterday. How’s the baby doing?” “How’d you find out I was pregnant?” Seonghwa smiled and pointed back at Jongho’s area. “He keeps telling me, he’s going to be an uncle.” You made a mental note to hit Jongho for not talking to you first. Either way, he is right, he will be an unrelated uncle as will San too. “Yeah, I found out that Lisa knows the gender and plans on throwing me a gender reveal party tomorrow.” “Am I invited?” You smiled. “Of course, Hwa! You are family.” Seonghwa opened his mouth to respond but San chose that time to call him back. Watching him walk away, you sighed. The words he was going to speak were lost scattered in the air like dust particles.

Lisa told you to dress nicely so you put on a dress that revealed the baby bump that was now growing bigger and bigger. You didn’t bother with make-up because you knew you were going to cry today whether it was from joy or the hormones. The shop was eerily quiet when you entered, but then again, it was a party and Lisa loved being extra. “You know, you guys are going to scare out the baby if you pop out of nowhere.” “You ruined our surprise.” You laughed at Lisa coming out from behind the counter. The other four spilled out into the room as well. Minho, Seonghwa, San, Lisa, and Jongho were there to celebrate you and your baby. “I can’t wait so are you ready for the reveal?” You nodded. “Then pull the plastic off of Jongho’s arm.” There was the signature black plastic they used to cover up tattoos.

“You did not get a tattoo for my gender reveal.” Jongho nodded. You stepped forward and carefully peeled the plastic from his arm to reveal a Sunflower colored in with yellows and pinks. “It’s a girl!” Minho screamed as he saw the colors and you hugged the nearest person to you and cried. “She’s going to be beautiful just like you, princess.” The chest you were crying into vibrated with the hum of the voice. You looked up to see Seonghwa smiling down at you. “Did you just call me beautiful?” “Yes.” Your hug became tighter and the others went back to get some cake. “How about you let me take you on a date.” “You aren’t going to leave me because I’m having a kid are you?” Almost offended, Seonghwa backed up. “Of course not. If this goes well, I’m not going to care if you have a kid or sixteen of them.”

————————————

The date went extremely well and you started to see Seonghwa more often. He went with you to your doctor appointments, stayed up with you in the middle of the night when you were craving random things, and he helped you with chores. Sometimes, he came into the parlour to bring you a random thing you didn’t know you were craving. You two were peacefully sleeping when you woke up in seething pain. A wet feeling soaked through your night dress. Another sharp pain. “H-Hwa?” You stuttered out, trying not to scream. Seonghwa woke up and rubbed his eyes. “Yeah.” “She’s coming.” He bolted up and helped you change your dress because you complained about the feeling. The entire way there, Seonghwa sped with his blinkers on and constantly checked on you. “Are you alright?” “FOR GOODNESS SAKE. I LOVE YOU, HWA BUT IF YOU ASK ME THAT ONE MORE TIME, I’M GOING TO SHOVE MY FOOT UP YOUR ASS.”

The doctors took you into the hospital room and prepped you for the latent phase of labor. While you waited for the dilation to increase, Seonghwa called the others and it seemed like they raced there because within minutes, the entire group was surrounding your bed. “I’m going to be an uncle.” “We all know I’m the real uncle.” “Shut up, Minho.” The boys bickered back and forth while you felt another contraction. Hours of pain and pushing later, your baby lay in your arms. “What’s her name?” The doctor asked you, wanting a name for the birth certificate “Aurora…” Jongho was the first one to hold the baby aside from you. Seonghwa pouted but still let him hold the child. “Hi, Aurora. I’m your favorite uncle. I’m uncle Jongho.” “Seriously. I’m the uncle. I’m the favorite.” Minho whined as Jongho passed along the baby.

——————————

It’s been three years since Aurora was born. Three years since you fell in love with Seonghwa who has been a father figure to your kid and a great boyfriend. He stayed at home while you went to work to support the family. Every once in a while, he brought the little girl into the parlour to bring you food and she visits the others when they aren’t busy. The customers absolutely love her. “Hey, mama! I brought some...umm...food.” “You did?” Aurora nodded while you swept her bangs out of her face. “I think we need to cut your bangs again.” “Cut...my...bangs?” You pointed to her hair. “Is that my favorite little niece?” “UNCLE JONGHO!” She squealed and ran into his arms while you were left to check out the customer. Seonghwa laughed as San came out as well. “We all know I’m her favorite.” Aurora played with Jongho’s hair while he went on break.

“Hey, this came for you today.” Seonghwa remembered while pulling out a fancy letter. You took it and opened it to pull out a letter. “You have been invited to Hwa-Young and Changbin’s wedding in two days. We hope to see you there.” “Isn’t that your ex?” San asked and you nodded. “Seonghwa, will you go with me?” “Of course, princess.” He kissed your cheek before calling for Aurora. “Aww, can uncle Jongho come over tonight?” “They all can. I’ll make dinner for them.” She cheered and hugged everybody goodbye before grabbing his hand. “Did I miss Aurora?” “Yes, Lisa, you did.” Lisa grumbled and pouted before going to clean her equipment. “YOU’RE INVITED TONIGHT FOR DINNER!” You yelled towards the back and she yelled out an okay.

——————————

You and Seonghwa dressed up in your best outfits. Your daughter was dressed up in a pretty pink dress and had her hair braided courtesy of Lisa. The trip was short as the wedding venue was only a few miles away. “Oh, hello! You must be Changbin’s friend!” A pretty woman made her way up to you. “Hi-“ “Can you help me get ready, please?” You looked at Seonghwa, a bit overwhelmed but still going to help and he nodded taking Aurora to find a seat. “Sure.” The woman grabbed your hand and dragged you to a dressing room. “I’m Hwa-Young! Changbin’s fiancée. I invited you because I saw photos of you together and decided you two were great friends.” “Actually, I hope you don’t mind but I’m his ex. Don’t worry though, I have someone else and I’m here to show my support.”

Hwa-Young pursed her lips and smiled. “It’s okay. You seem really nice anyways.” She stepped into a magnificent wedding gown and asked you to help her tie the back. It was a struggle but you managed to lace it up and tie it tight like she asked. “You have a pretty little girl.” “Thank you.” She’s Changbin’s too, you wanted to say but you kept it quiet, not wanting to ruin the event. Hwa-Young thanked you and rushed to get to the doors. You slipped inside before the band started and found your seat. “She’s really nice.” You whispered. “Mommy, shhh.” Aurora hushed you and pointed at band playing. Gasps sounded through the crowd as Hwa-Young walked down the aisle. The ceremony was beautiful and well executed. After the I do’s and vows, it was time for the party. You mingled with Changbin’s siblings when they realized you were there. They played with your daughter as well.

Then, he noticed you. He was confused why you were there because he didn’t invite you. “What are you doing here?” Could’ve been a better way to phrase that. “Congratulations, Changbin. I’m here to celebrate your big day.” “Look, if this is because you managed to find feelings for me-“ Seonghwa walked up to you, handing you a drink. “Is everything okay, princess?” Changbin shut up immediately. “Oh there you are, Binnie! I see you found your ex slash friend I invited. She’s really nice. Have you seen her daughter?” “Daughter?” As if on cue, your daughter ran up to you. “Mama!” You lifted her up and Changbin’s eyes widened. “Binnie? Is it just me or does she kind of look like you?” He noticed the similar features. “How old is she?” “Three.” His face dropped. “When’d you find out?” “The day after you left.” Aurora smiled at the faces that Seonghwa was making to distract her. You’ve definitely noticed that she had Changbin’s smile.

You asked Aurora to introduce herself. “My name is Aurora.” Changbin looked in awe at his daughter that he never even once wanted to know about. “I want daddy to hold me!” She reached for Seonghwa and Changbin felt his heart drop. It should be him she’s calling dad. Seonghwa took Aurora and led her to go see the other kids. “I want to talk to you about her.” “I never knew.” Of course he didn’t, he blocked you. “You were the one who left me and blocked me. I tried to reach out to you but you never answered me. I was left all alone to raise a child. If I didn’t have Seonghwa and my friends to help me-” You hissed out stopping for a breath, annoyed at his pathetic excuse. You’re starting to regret coming to the wedding. “I didn’t want to think about you. I wanted to focus on my new life. I didn’t think you’d get pregnant.” “I came here on good terms and was willing to let you visit your daughter but now, I don’t know if I want to.”

You turned away to grab Seonghwa and Aurora to leave but Changbin stopped you. “You said she was my daughter so I have a right to see her and visit.” Now, this was ridiculous. Luckily, Hwa-Young turned up the music and distracted the people from the argument going on in the corner. “You have NO right to see her. You didn’t even bother to let me tell you. Hell, with the way you are acting, you don’t deserve to see her until she’s old enough to make her own damn decisions. Congratu-fucking-lations. You ruined your own damn life.” At this point his wedding was forgotten. With anger in his eyes he spoke up. “LISTEN. SHE IS MY DAUGHTER. I WANT TO SPEND TIME WITH HER. SHE SHOULD BE CALLING ME DAD, NOT SOME RANDOM DUDE!” The music was forgotten as people looked towards the drama.

“I CAME HERE IN PEACE WANTING TO CELEBRATE YOUR DAY BUT SINCE YOU WANT TO BE DRAMATIC LET’S BE DRAMATIC. THAT RANDOM ‘DUDE’ IS MORE OF A DAD TO HER THAN YOU WILL EVER BE. THAT RANDOM ‘DUDE’ WAS THE ONE THAT TOOK ME TO THE HOSPITAL AND HELPED ME RAISE HER. THAT RANDOM ‘DUDE’ IS THE FUCKING LOVE OF MY LIFE SO FUCK OFF CHANGBIN.” Changbin reached for you one last time but you slapped his hand away. In your way out with your daughter and boyfriend, you apologized to the crowd and wished Hwa-Young well. With tears forming in his eyes, he watched you walk away. The rest of the party went on but he was only half there. When it came to gift time, he opened a small gift that was from you and Aurora.

It was an 8x10 photo frame of Aurora smiling. A card was put to the side explaining that it was his daughter. He realized that you had in fact planned to keep quiet and tell him about his daughter through this gift. Now he screwed up what was supposed to be the best day of his life by being a selfish prick. You on the other hand were defending your daughter and he couldn’t blame you. He couldn’t blame you for yelling at him and refusing him to see his daughter. He couldn’t blame you for calling him out. Changbin set the photo to the side and finished opening the rest of the presents. None had any meaning to him. They were stupid housewarming gifts like a blender and a mixer. At the end of the party though, his sister slapped him and called him out for being an ass.

You felt no remorse for Changbin. Jongho and San were at the house when you got back home. “I’m going to take a shower. Have uncle Jongho change you while daddy gets changed.” Aurora nodded and ran to jump on uncle Jongho to tell him what you said. You washed all the bad thoughts off of you and changed into a simple set of pj’s. When you went out to the living room, you found Seonghwa, Jongho, and Aurora playing hide-and-seek. Your daughter giggled in delight when Seonghwa found her. “I gottcha. Come here you little munchkin.” She ran away from him and you laughed as Seonghwa chased her around the living room. “Ah you’re too fast for this old man!” He slumped to the floor and she walked over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Catch me daddy!” Seonghwa got up and ran after her again, this time catching her and smothering her with kisses.

[obeydontstray]

I Want More (A Maxwell Lord X OFC rp)

0(A Maxwell Lord (Pedro Pascal - Patty Jenkins universe) rp between myself and my girlfriend @historianwithaheart ) Can be found under the same name on AO3)

Maxwell sat at his desk, getting his first breather of the day. He looked around for his son. Being the first month of summer, Alistair was spending time at the office with him, but the kid was not in his office where he left him. Max hit the button on his desk and spoke. "Hey Britney, did Alistair leave me any messages of where he was going? Did you see him?"

“No sir I thought he was with you.” In Melony’s office she sat typing away. The little black haired boy munched on his carrots and drank the soda she had gotten for him. She didn’t know who this little boy belonged to but he had stolen her heart. “Like the new Mario Alister?” She asked him. He smiled.

“My daddy is so busy most of the time so it’s nice to come hang out.”

It wasn't uncommon for Alistair to take walks around the offices. Max always made sure he had a piece of money so he could buy anything he wanted from the cafeteria, vending machines, or gift shop downstairs. But he wasn't usually gone this long. It had been....an hour? Maxwell began to get nervous.

“Sorry I couldn’t get you McDonald’s this time but I figure that you shouldn’t be eating junk every time we visit.” She felt her heart ache when he smiled at her. “I get bored so it’s nice to come sit with you.” Alistair smiled. “Well I think I’m gonna have my Lunch break soon if you want a player two?” He nodded.

Maxwell walked through the office hurriedly, asking random people if they had seen the small boy with black hair and dark eyes.

“Did you tell your daddy where you were going?” She asked typing on her desk top. Ali stair nodded. “Left a note.” She smiled at him. “Good boy.”

Someone stopped Max. "I saw a kid go that way, down the hall." He thanked the person and began opening doors.

“Hey kid, have some water okay? Only one soda!” She handed him a water bottle. She sighed. One week late for the meeting. Wonderful.

The door flung open and a head appeared. One with dark blonde hair, handsome features, and dark eyes. "Alistair!" He said, stepping in the door and reaching out his arms.

“Hey daddy!” Melony nearly choked on her drink. “Well Mr. Lord you’re only a week and three hours late to our meeting.” She stood.

He hugged Alistair and quickly stood, straightening out his clothes with his hands and suddenly turning on the biggest smile. "I'm sorry, you are?" God she was beautiful! She had shoulder length blonde hair and the biggest, bluest eyes he had ever seen. Her ruby red lips were perfectly shaped.

“You new head of financials Mr. Lord.” Ali stair smiled. “She’s my friend!” Alistair said. “Look she brought me stuff to play with.”

Maxwell scanned the room. A few scattered toys, food wrappers still out, and a a Nintendo. "So this is where you have been disappearing to."

“She’s nice, and she bought me a Nintendo and she was gonna play with me on her lunch break.” Alistair said. “ if your daddy says you can we can still do that.” Melony smiled. “Melony Morningstar, Head of your financial division. We were supposed to have a meeting one week and three hours ago.”

Maxwell sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Shit, yeah you're right. Sorry, things have been so busy."

Alistair went and hugged around Melony’s thigh. She pet his hair. “Well unfortunately for you my schedule is full up until next Wednesday at two. We’re diversifying your portfolio Mr. Lord.”

"My, you are a busy busy woman. Could we meet now?"

“Well I have a very important meeting coming up, with a top partner.” She winked at Alistair and he smiled. “Can I have another soda?” He asked drinking the Mountain Dew.

"How many have you had?" Maxwell asked. "Your mom's gonna kill me for letting you drink too many."

“He’s only had one! I let him have one when he visits.” Melony said. Alistair leaned against her shoulder. “Mommy doesn’t let me have anything, she’s too busy with her new boyfriend.”

Maxwell frowned. "That's okay, you'll always get attention from me." He promised. "If it's okay with Mrs. Morningstar, you can have another."

“Miss.” Melony corrected. “I’m a Miss and I think you’ve had enough. Don't want to send you home to Daddy and have you bouncing off the walls.”

"How considerate." Max smiled warmly. "Miss Morningstar is right. How about some water, or juice?"

“I gave him water a few minutes ago.” She blushed. “Well I guess you better go little buddy. I think the jig is up.” She ruffled his hair. “If you want you can take the NES system home. That’s up to your daddy. I..I can’t make that decision.”

He nodded. "If she doesn't mind your visits, that's fine. You can keep it here and I'll get you one for your room at home too."

“Alright little man you should probably head to lunch with your pops.” She smiled at the boy. “As for you Mr. Lord, seems you're as irresponsible with your child as you are your money. I’d like to know why you just couldn’t make our meeting a week ago.”

"I'm not irresponsible!" He said, a little flash defiance in his voice before he ran a hand through his perfectly coiffed hair. "He usually makes quick trips to the gift shop or cafeteria and back up. I didn't expect him to start touring people's offices. And I apologize, my only free time lately has been in the late afternoon. No business like show business, ya know."

“Mmm. No worries, little man and I keep each other company!” She smiled. “Oh yes far too busy. Then I guess it will have to be a business dinner then. Tonight at 6 your choice though perhaps a nice place to sit outside. The office is stifling.”

His eyebrow raised and a lopsided smile shown on his face. "Really? Tonight huh? How does Thai sound?"

“Fantastic. It’s my favorite. I’ll see you at six.” She penciled in her planner. “You best be there Mr. Lord, I am your new head of finances you hired me for a reason. And it wasn’t because I’m pretty, because you weren’t even there to look at me.”

"And I regret that deeply." He said, giving her a very obvious look over. "I'll meet you there." He said, laying his hand on Alistair's shoulder. "Come on baby, let's go."

She waved at Alistair. She sat down and smiled to herself. She had just strong armed the most powerful man in this company. Not taking his his excuses. Alistair walks with Max. “You’re not mad at me daddy, she’s really nice and she plays video games with me sometimes. She says that if you were smart you’d start investing in Nintendo.”

He grinned. "Well I'll have to think on that. No buddy, I'm not mad at you. She's a very nice lady."

“Are you gonna date her?” Alistair asked. “She’s pretty, really pretty almost prettier than Momma.”

"No no, this is just a business meeting." He assured him, even if he had different things in mind. "She is really pretty, isn't she?"

“She looks like that Disney princess, Aurora.” Alistair said. “She sings pretty too.” He said. “Can I still hang out with her?”

"Sure thing buddy." He said, ruffling the boy's dark hair. "When did you hear her sing?"

“Well one day when you were super busy, and I got bored I went exploring and I got really lost, and she found me. I was crying a lot because I was scared. She picked me up and she sang a song to me to help me stop crying because I was scared.” Alistair told him.

He lay his hand on his son's shoulder and bent down to his level before pulling him in for a hug. "I'm so sorry you were lost and scared. I'll thank her tonight for caring for you."

“It’s okay, I know you didn’t mean it to happen.” Alistair hugged him. “Just be nice to her okay?” Soon five o'clock came and Melony went home to change into a sweet little blue floral patterned summer dress. Cuban stockings, blue pumps. She did up her hair and spritzed her perfume. She picked up the phone as she put on her pink lipstick.

Maxwell looked himself over in the mirror. He wore a sunset yellow blazer with white slacks and a pastel orange shirt. His white loafers were shined and he pushed up his sleeves to his elbows. His hair was perfectly coiffed and he was cleanly shaven. He picked up his Polo cologne and sprayed it on. "Daddy, if it's not a date then why are you dressing up?" Alistair asked. "Dress for success, buddy. When you're a business man, you have to always look your best. This is a meeting, it's just outside the office so I'm dressing different." The phone rung and caught his attention. He lifted a finger at Alistair. "Hold that thought."

“Good evening Mr. Lord, Raquel said this was your home number. I’m honored.” Melony laughed.

"And who said you could call me at home?" He said in a flirty tone. "What do I owe the pleasure?"

“Well Mr. Lord by proxy of not specifying which Thai restaurant in DC you have hence forth invited me to call you at home.” She spoke. She heard the flirtatious tone in his voice. She felt a zap of desire run down her spine. Oh Melony, don’t you know any better. She thought to herself.

“Precisely. I’ll see you there soon.” She smiled over the receiver. “Oh and come prepared to work Mr. Lord. I’m not one of your office floosies.”

He smiled broadly and chuckled. "Work for what?"

“Honestly you think you’re so charming. Work work. Like portfolios and the future of your company, I’m sure you enjoy being able to spoil your little conquests. In order to keep doing that my darling Mr. Lord you need to be wise about the market.”

He grinned even harder. "I could have you fired for speaking to me like that, you know." He tested.

“Then I guess you wouldn't have a company much longer Mr. Lord. I will see you in a bit. Tell my little buddy that next time he wants to come play he brings me a snack okay?” She smiled.

"Okay I will. See you soon." He hung up and Alistair looked up at him with a worried look. "You would fire her?" "No! No!" He assured his son. How could he explain himself without telling him he was flirting? "I was testing her! It's hard to explain, you'll understand when you're older. But she passed. And she said when you go see her again you can bring the snacks."

Alistair smiled. “Okay!” He happily went to to go get ready for the babysitter. Melony was sitting at a table overlooking the river into a forest. She checked her watch, her legs crossed as she skimmed through a book and sipped a beer.

"Daddy, can I dress up next time I go see her?" Alistair asked. "Sure buddy." Soon Max had dropped off his son and strolled into the restaurant looking for her.

She sat there. Looking much different from before, more soft and feminine. She checked her watch again, when she heard whispers. Ah he's here. She thought to herself.

Women stared at him as he walked past, a handsome grin on his face and he shot random women flirty winks. His bright gold watch and rings flashed in the low light of the restaurant. "Miss Morningstar, nice to see you again." He greeted before took off his jacket and draped it on the back of his chair before he sat down.

“It nice to finally capture your attention for a moment or two.” She smiled at him. It was a flirtatious smile. She couldn’t help it.

"I'm a man in demand." He said with a wink.

She rolled her eyes. “Indeed.” She grabbed her brief case. “Okay so you started in oil but how long before that goes dry, you need to diversify.”

"Alistair said you told him I should invest in Nintendo." He chuckled. "What about that little computer company? Apple is it?"

“I think that’s a solid bet, personal gaming systems, personal computers, making it individual is going to be big.” She continued. “Your oil company is a great start, it really is, and your other investments are doing well but we need to be able to have more than one leg to stand on, what are the big draws? Entertainment, technology and of course oil and trade.” She handed him a large book. See.”

He flipped through the books pages quickly. "Hmmmm, I see." His lips were pressed together in a goofy shape, making him look as if he was only half considering the things he was looking at.

She looked at him, she knew that look. He's only half considering it. She bit her lip and let her anger simmer. “Sir, I’m trying to be diplomatic but do you think I’m a joke? I’ve spent hours doing the job you’ve hired me to do, and then you can’t be bothered to see me at our planned meeting and then you come here and half ass your considerations.”

"What? I'm thinking!" He said, his warm brown eyes flicking upwards and locking with hers.

“If you say so.” She sipped her beer. “I apologize, this is important to me.”

He nodded and looked her in the eyes again. "And it shows, I apologize if I'm not demonstrating my interest. I'm just a little distracted, but here, let me take another look."

She sighed. “It is kind of late and if I’m being honest Mr. Lord. I’m tired.” She spoke. “At least I have you thinking.”

He nodded. "Yes it is late. I'm sorry we got off to a rocky start, but I really enjoyed your company tonight." He said with an earnest face.

“Well I guess at the very least you can continue to enjoy my company. I wouldn’t protest.” She said to him sipping a beer. I mean our first meeting was supposed to be just a get to know your employee type deal, but your company took a big chance on me and I..I just don’t want to fail.”

"I'm really glad whoever made the decision did. I uh-I'm not as involved in the hiring process as I should be. But I would like to get to know you more. And if it's okay, can I borrow this book? I'll review it in the morning with fresh eyes and a clear mind."

“Don’t you eat breakfast with your son?” She asked him. “And what we’re you distracted by.” She handed him the book.

"I do. I'll look it over again after I get to work." He looked up at her again. "Who wouldn't be distracted by someone like you."

She scoffed. “Honestly, Mr. Lord, I hate to sound pretentious but, again, I’m not one of your office floosies.” She looked at him. God, his eyes were so sincere. “But I have a feeling you know that.” She handed him his beer.

He nodded and took his beer before taking a sip. "I know you're not like them. I don't pay attention to them. But you..."

“But what about me Mr. Lord?” She smiled at him. She moved a strand of hair behind her ear.

"You're authoritative and commanding and just...beautiful. You fill up the whole room with your presence."

She felt her face betray her emotions flushing pink. Clearly not the rouge one her cheeks. “Mr. Lord, I..”

"And my son told me what you did for him when he was lost and alone. And that, I'll forever be grateful to you for."

She was really blushing now. “Oh it’s nothing, anyone would have done that. I honestly thought maybe he was like a receptionists son, or something I didn’t know he was yours, but I...I can’t stand to hear a child cry. Especially...a sweet little boy like that.”

Maxwell's eyes moved to his empty plate. "I never thought of him getting lost like that and getting scared. I trusted him to just go to one of two places and back. I never thought of him getting lost. It broke my heart when he told me what that was like. But, he told me he thinks you are like Princess Aurora."

“Mr. Lord, if I could be so bold.” She said to him and took his hand. “He never blamed you, and he loves you dearly.” She said to him. “I just heard him cry and I just wanted to help. But you’re a good father.”

He nodded. "I try. I only get him on weekends right now and I try to set aside time to be with him, just one on one, but it's so hard to make time in the business."

“He sees you try. I’m sure.” She realized that she was holding his hand and blushed. “I..I’m sorry.” She pulled her hand away and chugged her beer.

“This is inappropriate and I’m sorry. I should go.” She went to stand.

He reached out and lay his hand on hers. "No, no please. Don't leave. We're just getting to know each other."

She felt her heart leap up into her throat. The story playing out in her bright blue eyes. The felt it, the attention, but her mind raced. What would he do with her when he was done. He could see it, she was sure. She sat back down. “I guess then maybe I should tell you more.” She didn’t take her hand away.

"Yes, tell me everything." He said, curling his fingers so that his hand wrapped around hers.

She felt her breath hitch. Her mind racing. “I...I..” she stammered. This seemed like a hazy dream. This man, the man who ran the most successful company right now, and her. Little old her. She wasn’t worth his time. “My name is Melony, I’m twenty eight, I have masters degree in finances and law. I...I like nature, and art and archaeology. I..I’m single. Have been for a while. Because being woman, having feelings gets you no where in this big business world. I’m witty and intelligent. Some men call me frigid or a bitch but I call it getting by.”

"You don't not seem those bad things to me. And I'm Maxwell Lord as you know. I'm divorced. You know Alistair. I'm 35. We have similar tastes."

“And I’m being incredibly stupid right now. Letting you know these things about me. Letting my guard down.” She confessed. “I should have Just kept it business.” She felt the room grow hotter. “This is how a woman gets a reputation.”

"How? Just by talking to me?" He asked, confusion sparking on his face.

“By letting my guard down around you.” She said to him. “Maxwell Lord, the infamous business man, being seen with his head of finances, a young woman.” She searched his face. “I guess one of my poor traits is I’m obsessed with my image.”

He raised his eyebrows and shrugged. "We can keep our meetings strictly business and in office, Miss Morningstar."

“I suppose, but you’re still holding my hand Mr. Lord.” She breathed out.

He drew back his hand slowly. "Well, I guess I should let you go. I'll see you at work Monday afternoon to give you a decision." He said as he stood and grabbed the book.

“Mr. Lord.” She reached out for him. “Don’t.” She looked at him. “I, am just scared. I haven’t, I haven’t let myself be vulnerable in a while. You astound me. Have since I first saw you on tv, have since I applied to work for you. Your company gave me the opportunity to do more than fall into the darkness that was waiting to take me. You’ve set the annals of my heart alive with flames once again. Forgive me if I am a guarded woman.”

He looked down at her with the softest expression before he sat down again. "Really? You'd use such beautiful words for me?"

“Perhaps you need a little beauty and honesty in your life.” She replied.

He reached out and took her hand once again and his thumb smoothed across her knuckles. "Maybe you could be the sunlight in my life, then."

“Mr. Lord, I...I don’t know about all of that, but I think perhaps maybe for a little while we could make each other realize that the sun still shines.” She paused. Not knowing what to do next.

"Call me Max, please." He looked at his watch. "It's getting late, I shouldn't keep you. The babysitter will be ready to go home soon, it's after Alistair's bedtime."

“What if...I want to be kept. Max.” She looked up at him and stood. “Maybe it’s the beer or maybe it’s just your touch, and maybe it’s just my personality but I feel brave.”

"I'd love to stay but I have to be home by midnight. Unless..."

She stood and moved closer to him she took his hand and placed her lips on his in a slow sensual kiss. But her shaking body betrayed her confidence.

He moved to hold her cheeks gently in both hands and kissed her again. "Then come home with me."

“You don’t have to ask twice.” She replied. Thank god they were at a secluded table.

"Come with me, let's take a taxi."

[wowweeharrystyles]

Part 1 | Kindness & The Perfect Fit | 9.2k words

‘Sequins & Zippers’ Summary: An internship with Harry Lambert transformed into a job of a lifetime - Aurora Del Gatto finds herself touring the world with the one & only Harry Styles as his ‘Head of Wardrobe.’ Aurora is nothing but nerves & excitement as she packs her bags & almost 100 custom designer suits that belong to an unbelievably kind rockstar. She never thought she’d fall in love on top of it all.

A/N: So here’s part 1 of Sequins & Zippers. A MASSIVE shoutout to @niallhoranapologist​. If it weren’t for Gwen I probably wouldn’t have continued to work on this story. Thanks for always helping me brainstorm ideas, listen to me talk about these fictional characters all the time & for continuously supporting my writing. you da best. 

“Ugg, this is useless,” Aurora groans as she throws the t shirt she had in hand across the room. Aurora has been attempting to pack her suitcase for hours now. “How the hell am I supposed to pack 4 months worth of clothes in a single suitcase?” she whispers in defeat to herself.

“Rory? Everything alright?” Aurora’s mother calls from the other room. Rory is the nickname her mom gave her when she was only a baby. Her mother walks into her room and sees the frustrated look on her daughter’s face. 

“25 countries? The weather is gonna be different in every freaking country,” Rory lets out a frustrated sigh, falling onto her bed. “I can barely pack properly for a weekend trip.” 

“Hey, you’re thinking too hard and overwhelming yourself,” her mother says softly as she sits on the bed next to her. She places a hand on her shoulder, “Let me help. We’ll figure it out.” 

Aurora is currently trying to pack for her new job. After the craziest year she’s ever had, packed with graduating college, moving to London to work with one of the most well-known stylists in the fashion industry and having the time of her life doing what she loves most, she was offered a career-altering job for the next 4 months. Never did Aurora think she would be sitting in her room back home in a small suburb of New York surrounded by cardboard boxes labeled with things like: “NYC Apartment - kitchen,” “London - winter clothes,” “School things,” “London Flat - bedding,” “I have no idea, from london.” Organized Chaos explained her life best right now. 

“Rory, sweetie, where’s your list?” her mother asks, looking around to locate the papers she’s been carrying around for the past week that’s covered in scribbled notes, lists upon lists and small sketches here and there. “Should’ve really been keeping that stuff in a journal or something.” She finds the papers scattered on Aurora’s desk and a few laid on top of boxes. “Probably wouldn’t be so overwhelmed if you could be a little bit more organized,” her mother sighs gathering the papers into a stack, tapping the bottom edges on the desk to line them up. “You’re normally so much more organized,” her mother continues before pressing a kiss to Aurora’s hair. 

“It’s a lot, Mom. I don’t know where to start.” She stands up from her bed and grabs her phone as it dings, indicating she’s received an email. “Finally!” she exclaims with a sigh of relief. “Harry’s just sent me my official itinerary and all of my flight info.”

“Harry Styles himself emailed you your travel plans?” her mother asks in disbelief. 

“No, mom, Lambert. Harry Lambert, my boss.”

“Oh yeah, of course,” she laughs lightly, “How many mix ups has there been with that name?” 

Aurora’s new job is ‘Head of Wardrobe’ for Harry Styles’ Arena World Tour. In all honesty, she has no idea how she got here. Well she does, but it still doesn’t feel real. Lambert’s original hire for the tour ended up needing to stay in London to help him with his styling work there and she was next in line, but she still isn’t too sure how she got this lucky. The past year happened so fast and it was one opportunity after another that landed her here. She’s barely had a moment to breathe after the holidays and some small jobs here and there to keep her busy. Last January, just over a year ago, Aurora traveled to London for a six week menswear design course at Central Saint Martins for some extra credits before her final semester of college. During this course, she was lucky enough to met Harry Lambert. After he saw her collection of work from the past few years, what her thesis plans were and what she had been working on during the CSM course he kept her information on file for the future. When Aurora left london at the end of the course she had no idea if she would ever hear from Harry Lambert again, but around mid march she received an email from him about an internship position he needed to fill and thought she would be perfect for. Starting the internship in NYC before she even graduated, May was a whirlwind and was the perfect indication on how the rest of her year would be. She moved to London in June and was put to work without a second to spare. 

“Okay, so here’s what we’re gonna do,” Aurora’s mother starts before launching into a detailed plan on how they’re both gonna tackle packing up Aurora’s life for the next 4 months on the road, traveling. They’ve got barely 3 days until her flight leaves for London.

Nearly 4 hours later and they’ve organized Aurora’s room. Unpacking the appropriate boxes, written a new packing list, and they’ve also written a shopping list. They’ve got organized piles surrounding them. Again, Organized Chaos best describes Aurora’s life, always. 

“Oh, what about that long pleated skirt you made last year? The emerald green one? You definitely need to take that.” Aurora’s eyes lit up at the idea. She loved that skirt, it was versatile enough that she could pair with heels or sneakers. Versatile pieces were key to packing she found out quickly. Her mom reaches into her closet and searches for it. “Probably at the back, haven’t worn it in awhile,” she motions towards her closet while sorting through the box of her bags, making decisions on which ones she’ll need with her. 

“Oh gosh, Rory, look what I found,” her mom emerges from the closet with a handful of rolled up posters. 

Aurora goes bright red knowing exactly what is on those posters. “Oh no. I kept those?” her mom sets them down on the floor but keeps one to unroll. Once the tape is off and her mom has got it flat, she turns it around to face Aurora. It’s a large poster of One Direction from a TigerBeat magazine. Aurora drops her face into her hands. 

“Remember when you couldn’t see a bit of the wall cause of these posters? If I remember right, you liked that blonde one yeah?” her mom laughs, rolling the poster back up. “Maybe you should take one with you and have Harry sign it? He’d get a kick out of it, I’m sure.” 

“Mom!” Aurora whines. “This is my job, my career. I have to be nothing but professional.” 

“I’m sure he wouldn’t mind a joke or two. Gotta have fun still and honestly, he’d probably think it’s cute.” 

“Mom, it’s embarrassing and I’m gonna be working with him and his team for the next 4 months.” Her mother can see the panic on her face. “I cannot just show up with a One Direction poster.” 

“Ror, I’m just having a bit of fun with you. You need to relax or you’ll just be frustrated and stressed the entire time.” She sets the posters aside and goes to join Aurora on the floor. Placing a hand on her cheek, “Baby girl, my baby girl, promise me you’ll have some fun? This is a chance of a lifetime and I know you’ll work your butt off and do your job perfectly, but you need to enjoy it too. Okay?” Aurora nods slowly. She knows her mother is right, she always is. 

“Okay,” she says softly giving her mom a weary smile. 

“You’ll be okay, I know you will,” her mom says before leaning in and hugging her daughter. “I’m so proud of you.”

Aurora and her mother continue bustling around her room until the sun sets. By the time there is no daylight left there are 2 large suitcases completely full, all organized and packed with Aurora’s belongings. They spend the next hour packing up Aurora’s rolling caboodle. The large, rollable, sturdy set of drawers and compartments is from Aurora’s days as a competition dancer. It used to carry her stage makeup, extra pairs of tights, accessories and an emergency sewing kit. It was always covered in glitter and there were bobby pins in every nook and cranny, a few stray sets of false eyelashes too. But for the past 4 years, she’s used it for all things sewing and design. She never went to class or the design studio without it. Aurora and her mom empty the drawers and reorganize the contents. They make another list of things they need to pick up at the local sewing store the next day. Aurora pulls out her old sketchbooks and sets them to the side and adds a new clean book to the now empty drawer along with her cases of Micron pens, drawing pencils and prisma coloured pencils. 

Aurora continues to organize each little compartment as her mother prints out small labels and adds them to the section dividers. Aurora loves to be overly organized and have everything in its place. It keeps her calm and stops her from getting overwhelmed in stressful situations. There’s nothing she hates more than being backstage at a fashion show and needing a simple needle and thread to fix a small seam quickly and having to dig through the drawers to find what she needs. Backstage life, anywhere, fashion shows, dance competitions, or even a world tour, can be stressful if you’re not prepared properly. 

“Oh, keep the box of sequins and swarovski crystals in there. I actually might need them.” Aurora finishes the sentence with a giggle as she’s setting her scissors in their respective home. 

“Really?” her mom laughs too. 

“Yeah, some of the looks for this tour are actually pretty sparkly. You never would’ve thought. I actually might have to bedazzle a few things on the road.” 

“You’re home!” her mother sing-songs. They both laugh again thinking about the countless hours they spent bedazzling dance costumes with 100’s of crystals. 

After saying goodbye to her parents through a continuous flow of tears, Aurora got on an 8 hour flight. She kept herself busy on the flight to occupy her mind and stop her from overthinking or panicking about the next 4 months ahead of her. She landed in London on the 3rd of March, just a few days till she’d be back at this exact airport with the same luggage plus a few crates labeled ‘Wardrobe’ that she’d also have to care for. She made her way to the Air B’N’B that had been set up for her for the next few days and headed straight to bed. One thing Aurora, jokingly, prides herself on is the ability to sleep anywhere at anytime. 

When the morning rolls around and her alarm wakes her, she’s preparing herself a cup of coffee when her phone rings. She notices Lambert’s ID on the screen. She answers and they exchange good mornings before he asks her about her travels from the day before. 

“Okay, so, I’m sending a car to where you’re staying in about an hour to bring you to the arena.”

“Arena? I thought we were meeting at your studio?” 

“Oh no, change of plans, sorry should have mentioned that in an email. Harry is in full rehearsal mode and everything for the tour is at the mock stage space at Wembley Arena. They’ve just finished the final tech rehearsals and Harry will be there today to start running the show,” Lambert continues. The new knowledge of Harry Styles being there on her first day makes Aurora jittery, small butterflies erupting in her stomach. She’s met Harry before. They’re friendly, but she was only just Lambert’s shadow anytime they were together. He was sweet and kind, just as everyone always says, but she was still a tad nervous. She will be with him almost everyday, on her own, without Lambert there to be a buffer. Aurora tended to be a nervous person, especially if she doesn’t know someone all that well. She can keep her nerves at bay and save a proper panic for after the situation ends most times, which is the best she can do right now. It’s something she’s working on. It’s what she hates most about herself, not being able to keep her nerves in check. 

“Oh yeah, makes sense,” Aurora responds, surprisingly with no jitters evident in her voice. 

“Great, I can have the run of show lookbook all put together for you when you arrive and we’ll go through it and make notes.” “Do you mind if I actually set it up when I get there? I would feel much better and more settled doing it myself as we do a walkthrough of the wardrobe.” 

“Of course, Aurora, whatever you think will work best for you.” 

She thanks him and they end the phone call after confirming the time and car that will be picking her up. She finishes off her coffee and heads to the living room where she left her suitcases last night. One of the large suitcases was lying on the ground, opened, exactly where Aurora left it last night. She ruffles through the contents of her suitcase, moving around different packing cubes until she finds the cube that contains her favourite black jeans. She locates a creme hooded knit sweater and some clean undergarments. She pops into the shower and continues to bustle around the small flat getting ready. At some point she turns on some music to distract her mind. There’s an airy feeling in the flat, the sun shining in london for a change and it calms Aurora down despite the nerves running through her veins. Aurora checks her watch, 10 minutes until her car is due to pick her up. She slides on her all white leather court sneakers and laces them up, tucking in the excess laces for a clean finish. She grabs her black bomber jacket and slips her arms in, then pulls out the hood from her sweater so it lays comfortably on the outside of the jacket’s collar. She takes a quick look in the full body mirror that leans up against the white brick wall across from the large, unmade bed. She’s reminded by the reflection in her mirror to text her mother and thank her for convincing her to pack her favourite clothes instead of all her fancy stuff. She looks put together but is still extremely comfortable, prepared for anything today has to offer her. 

There’s a short honk from the street in front of the building. Aurora grabs her rolling caboodle and her purse before rushing out the door to meet the driver. 

20 minutes later she finds herself stepping out of the car and thanking the driver for holding the door. He grabs her caboodle from the trunk and hands it to Aurora and wishing her well and to have a nice day. Harry Lambert greets her at the door giving her a big hug and exclaiming about how excited he is to have her there. He takes her an office where the tour manager, Michael is set up. The office is busy with several people working at desks on laptops and people taking phone calls. Lambert introduces Aurora to the team and gets her set up with her tour pass and all the nitty gritty stuff. Within half an hour she’s all set for tour and has her new lanyard tied to her on a belt loop. They walk through the never ending halls plastered with signs that state “Treat People With Kindness” and Aurora smiles everytime she sees another. Lambert points out different places, important notes posted on bulletin boards and casually introduces her to people as they quickly pass. 

Everyone seems to be on a mission, darting in and out of rooms and talking on headsets. It’s a busy atmosphere but nobody seems stressed or upset. Aurora appreciates the hustle that everyone seems to have. There’s smiles and high fives passed between crew members and coffees getting pass along. Lambert points out where Harry’ band’s dressing room is and then Harry’s as well. Harry’s reads “Hershel” on the sign that sticks out from the wall. 

“Hershel?” Lambert chuckles when he sees the confused look on her face. 

��Yeah, Jeff, his manager, you’ve met him, calls him Hershel 95% of the time.” She nods along with a smile. After making their way through a few more halls they reach a larger dressing room. “Okay, so here’s our space for the week.” Aurora rolls her caboodle and sets it against the wall near the door for now and sets her purse down on an empty space on the counter that lines one of the shorter walls. On the wall directly across from the doorway there are 3 large black cases that stand about 6 feet tall, opened and filled with garment bags. 

“Is everything here already?” Aurora makes her way towards the case farthest left. 

“Hopefully!” Lambert picks up a large binder that’s sitting on the table across from a small leather couch. “That’s where we’re starting. Checking through each night’s look and making sure it’s all here.” She takes the binder that Lambert has handed her and opens it up to the first page.” 

“Oh wow. I almost forgot how beautiful these suits are.” Towards the end of her internship in London, Lambert let her help him pick some options for the tour. She thumbs through the book quickly to get a glimpse of the beautiful designer suits. She notices quite a few of her favourites made the cut. The 2 of them sit down and devise a plan to best get through this large task of double checking the 60 looks in front of them. They’re about ¾ the way through around 1pm when they mutually decide to take a break and grab some lunch before they power through the rest of the wardrobe. After meeting more members of the crew and grabbing another cup of coffee, Lambert and Aurora make their way back to their dressing room. 

“Hey, let’s go take a look at the stage,” Lambert said as he made a sharp turn in the opposite direction of the room they’ve been working in. “I haven’t seen the final setup yet.” 

“Oh, I’d love that!” Aurora’s face lights up at the idea. They enter from the back of the stage. The stage itself is fully constructed but the light trees are currently hanging low to the ground and crew members are working carefully to change the direction, colour or size of each bulb. Lambert excuses himself as he takes a call, telling Aurora he’ll meet her back in the dressing room in 15 minutes. Aurora continues the theme from today and introduces herself to the stage crew. “Mind if I check out the stage?” she asks Jack, one of the crew members who introduced himself as the Stage Manager. 

“Go ahead, just keep an eye out, we haven’t cleaned up much.” She nods and smiles while walking up the metal steps at the side of the stage. She takes careful steps as she steps to center stage. She looks out into the empty arena. The lights are low and the noise from the powertools is echoing through the arena. 

Though there isn’t any music, the stage lights aren’t shining, and she isn’t in one of her rhinestoned costumes, she still feels at home standing center stage. The nerves she’s been holding on to all morning wash away as she takes a deep breath. Her eyes flutter shut for a moment and she remembers the last time she performed on a stage like this one. It was her senior year of high school at nationals in New York City. It was her farewell to her dance career. A smile starts to grow on her face, the nerves from this morning, the the whole trip to get here, completely washed away now. 

“Oi!” a voice booms through the air, making Aurora jump and she searches for where it came from. She turns around, her hair following her as she turns. Her hair continues to follow her movement, falling in front of her face a bit but she can still make out the face the voice comes from. “What’re you doing on my stage?” She’s met with a smiley, broad shouldered Harry Styles. He’s got his hands in the pockets of the tartan trousers he’s wearing. The strong feeling of embarrassment brings heat to her cheeks as she looks down at the black and white vans he’s sporting. 

“Oh gosh, I’m sorry, I-,” she starts rambling apologies. She watches his vans take a few steps closer to her. Aurora’s fumbling with her hands, a nervous tick of hers. “-I was told, told, I could, could, check out the stage,” she’s stuttering over her words and pointing in the direction of Jack. She finally stops talking when she meets Harry’s eyes. He’s still beaming and her stomach drops at the fact that he’s enjoying this situation. His confidence paints an incredible stark difference from her mumbling nervousness. Her brain is a bit fuzzy right now but that doesn’t stop her from noticing the way his eyes sparkle. 

“I’m only joking, love” he says as he pulls his hands out of his pockets with a chuckle. “The stage suits you.” 

“I’m sorry,” Aurora offers again. “I’m-” She’s reaching her hand out when he cuts off her introduction.

“Love, we’ve met. How could I forget you, Aurora.” She’s startled a bit when her name comes out of his mouth. “Ya fixed the hole in my pink jacket, remember?” He’s stepping closer to her and before she’s able to process what’s happening he’s wrapped his arms around her torso, his tattooed arm rubbing her back briefly before pulling away. 

A small laugh leaves her mouth, “I remember, didn’t think you would is all.” Her voice is soft and trails off towards the end of her sentence. 

“Not got much a reputation then if I’ve got people that work with me thinking I’ll forget them.” He lets out a soft chuckle and his smile elicits a dimple on his cheek. 

“No, no, you’ve got a much better reputation than that, promise. You must meet a lot of people day to day is all.” Aurora is calming down, now, realizing that there is no reason for her to be so nervous around him. She’s interacted with him before, this shouldn’t be so jarring to her. Though this time is different. She wouldn’t be working behind Lambert or running errands. She’ll be with Harry just about everyday and she terrified she’ll never be comfortable, always anxiety ridden. Although his life is much different from hers, she’ll be getting a real taste of it and they’re close in age. They’re bound to find something in common. Right?. There’s a bit of silence before Aurora speaks up. “Well, your suits aren’t gonna organize themselves. I better go find Lambert.”

“Yes, of course. Don’t let me stop you from your work.” Aurora nods. She excuses herself as she makes a comment about how she thinks the stage looks great so far. Just after she’s walked past him she feels him grab her hand. “I’m excited to have ya on tour with us, love. Happy to have you making sure I sparkle just right on this stage.” He’s let go of her hand and presents his arms out to the sides as he mentions the stage. 

She’s beaming back at him. “Packed extra rhinestones just for you.” She’s almost skipping down the stairs after that. A weight of relief falling from her shoulders in a light sigh.  First, interaction with Harry? Check. She finds her way back to the room she’d been working in all morning. She settles down on the couch again, pulling the large binder into her lap. She jots down a few notes and adds to the ever growing list of things that need to be done. She stands up and walks over to one of the open wardrobe cases. She’s sliding hangers across the rack before she gets to the next look. Aurora takes the hanger off the rack. The sleek black hanger is labeled Yves Saint Laurent and an emerald green sequined button down shirt hangs off of it. There’s a pair of black straight leg trousers folded over the hanger as well. Aurora carries the ensemble across the room and hangs it on one of the vanity bulbs that sticks out from the light bulb framed mirror. She fixes the collar so it’s sitting straight. She takes a step back with one hand on her hip and another on her chin. 

“What’re you thinking?” Lambert asks when he sees Aurora’s furrowed brow. She hums, still processing her thoughts. 

“You know Michael Jackson’s black sequin jacket? The one he wore when he did the moonwalk for the first time?” He nods, following along. “Think we could play with that idea. What if Harry wore this open, with the Calvin tank?” In the small section of a wardrobe they’ve already gone through is a slew of clothing articles that will be used for multiple shows. The Calvin tank she’s referencing is one that will be, in Aurora’s opinion, an iconic, staple for the entire tour. It’s a simple white ribbed tank but on the left side, “Treat People With Kindness” is embroidered in black. “It’d be closer to Michael’s ‘Billie Jean’ performance in Munich that same year, but it’s the iconic sequin jacket that will sell it.”  

“You really know your stuff huh?” Lambert chuckles, impressed by her knowledge and the way her brain works. Lambert walks away and grabs the tank from the rack and brings it back to Aurora. 

A smile creeps onto Aurora’s face. “My mom loves Michael Jackson. Loves him like everyone loves Harry. I grew up dancing around the house to his music.” She takes the tank from Lambert after he slides it off the hanger. She’s quick to unbutton the YSL shirt in excitement but does it as carefully as possible. She hangs the tank under the shirt, turning it into a overshirt now. The smile on her face is growing. She’s in her element, doing exactly what she’s always wanted to do. Lambert places a hand on her shoulder and gives it a squeeze. A silent approval. Aurora walks back to the table and writes down their decision for this look in the notebook she’s been working with. They go through a few more suits and make a note that they’ll need an extra white button down from Gucci. Lambert is sending Aurora there sometime this week to pick a few more things up that are getting finished and some extra shoes for Harry as well. Lambert says Harry likes to wear his shoes to dust and that Aurora will have to make sure he doesn’t go on stage with holes in his shoes cause he will, especially his rainbow loafers.  They finish going through the rest of the suits before calling it a day. Lambert fills her in on the next few day’s timeline to prepare her for the week. Aurora leaves the arena feeling like her heart could burst. She couldn’t have imagined a better first day at her new job. Aurora heads to bed early, after she orders a Domino’s Pizza, to rest up for the days ahead and beat the jet lag that’s bound to hit her in the next few days. 

When she gets to Wembley the next morning, Aurora grabs a coffee from craft services and says hello to a few people she recognizes from yesterday. She’s thankful that everyone has a lot to get done and people are jutting off to their own areas to get to work. Aurora would be lying to herself if she didn’t acknowledge that she’s a bit overwhelmed by all of the new faces. She knows faces will become familiar as time goes on but right now she’s content with her coffee and knowing that she’s walking to a room to work on her own for awhile. 

When she finds herself in the familiar green room she sets herself up for the day. Aurora pulls her laptop out of her leather bag and presses play on her current spotify playlist. She likes working alone, but not in silence. After collecting her notebook from yesterday and the envelope of images that Lambert left for her she sits down and starts putting together the final look book for tour. She’s organizing the book by tour dates, making a section for each city. 

“Basel, Switzerland” is written on the top of the 1st page in bold all capital letters. Aurora tapes an image of the black glittered Gucci suit that Harry will wear for the opening night of his world tour. She copies any notes she made about this look from yesterday onto the space underneath the photo. After she’s finished the page for Switzerland she goes to the large cases and pulls the black glittered Gucci suit to the empty rolling rack that she set up yesterday. Each of the traveling cases will need to be organized by date to make traveling and set up easier throughout the tour. She continues this process for the next 2 hours. Once her coffee is empty at the end of the 2 hours she has almost 6 cities complete. Aurora takes her empty coffee cup as a sign for her to take a break. Before leaving the room to get more coffee she checks her phone. There’s a few notifications, emails from lists she keeps forgetting to unsubscribe to and a string of texts from her mother. She laughs at the first text - “I know you’re probably fine, but you’re in a different country and I need to hear your voice to make sure you’re still alive and it’s not some kidnapper texting me back” - then another text about 20 mins after that one reads “I love you, I know you’re busy, but please call me” and the last one delivered just a few minutes ago, “I’m your mother, it’s my job to worry.” Aurora shakes her head and feels a bit guilty because she hasn’t texted her mom as much as she probably should have and before knocking out last night she texted her back apologizing for not calling after her first day and that she was just too exhausted. 

Her mom doesn’t answer and is greeted with an automatic voicemail greeting, “Classic,” she chuckles as she hangs up without leaving a message. She shakes her head, standing in the doorway as she sends off a text saying she’s taking a break and to call her back, adding a “I’m good, everything’s amazing! Just calling to chat” as she always does so her mother doesn’t worry any more than she is. As she finishes the texts she mumbled a bit to herself about how her mother is always worrying but never picks up her dang phone. It isn’t until a familiar voice rings through the hallway that she realises she was mumbling quite clearly. 

“Sorry, everything alright, love?” Harry’s distinct voice travels closer to her as she looks up from her phone to him. She’s made her way into the arena hallway completely now. There’s a small furrow in his brow but a slight grin on his face. 

“Ah yeah, didn’t realise I was talking out loud.” She holds her phone up, “You know mothers, always worrying but never actually answering their phone when you call.” Harry laughs, his shoulders shaking. “She sent me this string of texts about being worried and 2 minutes later doesn’t pick up when I call her.” She sighs before sliding her phone into the pocket of the track jacket she’s got on today. 

“My mum does the same. Always saying we don’t talk enough or that she misses me and when I do get the chance she’ll text me back saying she’s out with friends drinking wine or s’thing like that.” Aurora laughs along with him. When she takes a proper look at him she notices he’s wearing black adidas joggers today with a white t shirt and a black nike jacket. 

“Looks like we both had the same idea when we got ready this morning,” she continues to laugh while gesturing between to two of them. They’re dressed almost identical right down to the white sneakers. Aurora’s got on her favourite black lululemon leggings instead of joggers but her tshirt and track jacket look just the same as Harry’s. Harry takes a good look at what he’s got on and back to Aurora and his eyes begin to crinkle and his nose scrunches up before he’s laughing. The laugh is almost a giggle and Aurora has to hold back from flashing him the most endearing smile. 

“Guess it’s a good thing that my Head of Wardrobe and I match. Must mean I’ve got the right person taking care of my clothing then.” He swings his arm around her shoulder before asking if she’s got a minute to grab a snack. 

“Probably should eat and I definitely need some more coffee,” she replies with a smile and shoves her hands into the pockets of her jacket not knowing what to do with them. There’s something about Harry, it’s that thing that people always talk about, his ease around everyone, the way he makes you feel like you’ve known each other forever. His kind demeanor relaxes Aurora and she’s sure this is how he makes everyone feel. Harry starts to go on about different things that are happening around the arena as they walk to the green room, pointing out different people and what they’re working on. Harry doesn’t know this, but the more Aurora knows about her surroundings and the things people are doing, the more comfortable she feels. Aurora likes knowing what’s going on. She knows it’s got something to do with wanting control over as much as she can but she also knows that there is so much going on that she can’t control anything and she especially knows that it isn’t her job. But knowing is good for her. Just as they turn the corner to the green room her phone rings. She pulls it out of her pocket and “Mother” with a pink heart is flashing on her screen. She shows the phone to Harry and she slides out from under his arm. “Rain check on the snacks?” she offers him before answering the call. She smiles as he shoots her a grin and voices an ‘of course’ before he turns around and goes back the way they had came. She questions his actions for a moment before saying hello to her mother. 

Aurora pulls out her notebook while she’s in the car the next morning to review what she needs to get done today. Written in red, at the top of the page under today’s date is: final fitting with Harry @ 12pm. She’s excited to get some of the newer pieces on him and finally have all the looks together. She’s nervous too. Lambert won’t be there again today or barely at all the rest of the week, her part time buffer ripped away sooner than expected. She knows there’s nothing to be nervous about. It’s just Harry. ‘Just Harry,’ she continues to mumble under her breath. 

“Miss Del Gatto, we’ve arrived,” Steven, her driver, who she’s come accustomed to after the past few rides, announces. Aurora looks out the window and sees the Gucci store front. 

“Thanks, Steven. I’ll only be a few minutes.” She smiles at him before stepping out of the car. She got dressed this morning in slightly more put together outfit that she had on yesterday, knowing she had to stop into a few stores on her way in to pick up some pieces that were still missing. Her black chunky heeled leather boots make a clacking sound as she walks towards the entrance. Before she can even reach for the door, she’s welcomed by a man in an all black suit that is welcoming her into the store. 

“Welcome to Gucci.” His voice is deep but bright and welcoming, she thanks him with a smile. 

Once she’s a few more steps into the door she adjusts the small gold airplane necklace that is sitting on the outside of her black turtleneck before speaking up. “I’m here to pick up some shoes for Harry,” she rattles out. A questioned look appears on the man’s face. “Harry Lambert and Styles.” She clarifies. 

“Aurora Del Gatto, yes?” another woman’s voice speaks up from across the store. 

“Uh, y-yes,” she stammers while turning towards the women. 

“I’m Lauren. Nice to meet you, Aurora. Harry told me to be expecting you this morning.” Aurora shakes Lauren’s hand with a smile. Lauren looks like a seasoned pro, her black suit fits her perfectly and her greying hair is pulled up into an elegant low bun. “Go ahead and make yourself comfortable,” she says motioning towards the plush dark purple couches. “Would you like any water or coffee, dear?” 

“Oh, I’m alright actually, thank you.” 

“I’ll be right back with everything.” Aurora nods in acknowledgement while sitting down on the couch. She slides off the lightweight, long, camel coloured coat she’s wearing and drapes it over the couch next to her. She checks her watch to make sure she’s good on time. She’s got to stop at Calvin Klein as well before heading to arena to prep for Harry’s fitting. It’s just gone on 10am, she’s got plenty of time but still anxious at the thought of arriving just before the fitting, not getting a chance to set up. She’s brought back from her thoughts when Lauren returns with 3 shoe boxes in her arms and a garment bag.

“I think there are only 2 pairs of shoes I’m supposed to be picking up,” Aurora questions, “the rainbow loafers and the Spring 18 leather boots.” Lauren’s face lights up in a smile. 

“Yes, those are both here and there’s a pair of sneakers here for you as well.” Aurora’s face reflects exactly what is going through her mind: surprise, shock, and other emotions she couldn’t put words to. Her jaw has dropped and her eyes are wide. “Harry called last night and wanted us to fit you into some Ace Sneakers for the tour.” 

“Lambert said that?” Aurora is confused, giddy and nervous, always nervous. She doesn’t even know how to accept a gift like this. She’d also be lying if she hadn’t been looking at these sneakers forever. 

“No, dear, Harry Styles.” Aurora is beyond caught off guard at this point. 

“I’m sorry, I think there must be a mistake. There’s no reason for Harry to be giving me anything.”

“He specifically called these in for you. I don’t know the details, he just wanted to make sure you walked out with the perfect fit.” She set 2 of the boxes down on a glass table and brought over the 3rd box. “I grabbed the 7.5, I’m normally pretty good at guessing.” 

“Well, you would be right.” Aurora laughs nervously. She slides off her boots in order to avoid the overwhelming thoughts in her head. She’s afraid if she doesn’t keep moving she might go into shock. She’s trying on the sneakers before she speaks up again, “Uhm,” Aurora starts to speak, “Does Harry, uh, do this often? I-I mean, uh call in for gifts?” 

“I wouldn’t say often, but I’ve fulfilled a few of his gifting requests over the past few years. Just a handful though. There really hasn’t been many, if I’m honest.” 

Aurora smiles to herself. She’s still confused about it all but still that same familiar feeling rushes through her when she’s reminded of Harry’s incredible kind demeanor. And before she knew it, she's walking out of Gucci with a smile on her face, a tingle in her fingers, a garment bag and not 2 but 3 boxes of shoes.

She’s setting up one last suit on the tall silver rolling rack before she checks her watch. 11:59. She made great time getting to Wembley after grabbing the pink plaid jacket and custom boots from Calvin Klein. There’s a light knock on the slightly ajar door seconds later. 

“‘Ello, love,” Harry’s voice booms through the small, concrete walled room. Aurora turns towards the door. “All ready!” He exclaims as he makes his way towards her. 

“Hi Harry,” Aurora responds before Harry has a hand at her waist and is placing a light kiss on the top of her cheek. 

“How’s your morning been?” He’s now made his way to the rolling rack she had just filled. 

“Good,” she wants to ask him about the shoes but she doesn’t know how to bring it up. “I did uh- I, I-”

“Can I try this one on?” Harry interrupts, suddenly distracted by the garments he hasn’t seen yet. She’s grabbing her book from the table across the room when she hears the sound of hangers hitting the floor. “Oooff,” there’s a chuckle that follows. “That one’s a bit slippery.” 

“Oh gosh, yeah I need to add some hanger loops to that one,” Aurora sets her book down and rushes over to pick up the fallen garments and hangers. Harry utters a few sorry’s before stepping away. She swears she hears him mumble about being in the way. Once she’s got the fallen garments gathered on the crook of her arm, she grabs a hanger adorn in the pink plaid Calvin suit. “That’s what you get for being so nosy,” she quips at him and hands him the suit. His jaw drops slightly but before he can say a thing Aurora’s speaking again, “Try this one on first, please.” Aurora lingers on the please and shoots him a sweet smile. “There’s a small room through there you can change in.” She turns around after motioning towards the door and sees that Harry already has his trousers down to his ankles. “Orrrr you can change right there.” 

“Oh, don’t wanna make you uncomfortable, darling,” he responds as you quickly turn away, sliding the plaid trousers all the way up and buttoning them just as fast.

“Oh no, you’re fine, don’t wanna be rude is all.” Aurora is flipping through her book finding the section for Stockholm. “The black ribbed tank was on the hanger with the jacket, yeah?” She asks as she skims over the page in front of her. He hums back letting her know it’s there. Aurora lifts up her coffee cup from earlier this morning to her lips, turning around to find Harry fully dressed in the Calvin Klein suit she picked up this morning. She frowns realising there’s no coffee left in her cup. 

“What?” Harry asks, his brows knitted together in concern after seeing the frown on her face. “Does it look that bad?” He’s messing with the way he’s tucked the shirt into the waistband of the trousers. 

Aurora giggles at his frantic hands. “Harry, nothing could look bad on you.” She shakes the empty cup in front of him. “I’m out of coffee.” 

“Well, that frown was badly timed. I’ve got a brand new suit on and that’s the first reaction I get?’ 

“Oh you’ll be fine, rockstar. Plenty of ego pumping in the near future,” Aurora quips backs at him as she makes a circle around him. “They did great with this one,” she’s pulling at the shoulders of the jacket so it sits just right on his broad frame. “How do the trousers feel?” She asks as she smooths down the fabric of the sleeves before rounding back to face Harry straight on. 

“The trousers? Yeah they feel good. Fit perfect, I think.” He’s pulled up the bottom of the jacket and is twisting his hips round. “Wha’ d’ya think?” 

“I think Calvin Klein knows exactly what he’s doing,” she says with a smirk. “Okay, that one’s all set, go ahead and put this one on now.” She hands him another pink jacket, this one velvet with embellishments and it has a Gucci tag on it rather than Calvin Klein. She hands him black trousers with a gold trim as well. “You’ll wear this with a button down but just try with the tank. I just need to make sure all the alterations were done properly.” 

“Did you stop at Gucci this morning? Lambert mentioned you were going,” he asks while handing her the plaid suit he just took off. Aurora busies herself with hanging them up. 

“Yeah. Got your loafers and boots. I also-”

“Oh nooooo, Aurora,” Harry’s voice is panicky. 

“Wha-,” is all she gets out before she sees and hears the beads rolling on the floor. “Ahhh I had a feeling that was going to happen. And THIS is why we try things on 100 times. Wouldn’t want you unraveling on stage.” She runs over to her kit that stands in the corner.

“I’m sorry, not sure what I did,” Harry’s face shows worry like he’s done something wrong. 

“Hun, you didn’t do anything, promise. I think it might have been from the alterations.” Aurora is tying a knot in a piece of thread before walking over to him. “I’m just gonna close this strand up while it’s on you and I’ll re embellish it later.” The piece that’s come undone is on the right shoulder. She slides her hand under the jacket to find the back of the spot she needs to fix. Her hand brushes the skin of his shoulder, reminding her he’s only wear the tank underneath and he flinches. “Sorry, my hands are probably cold. This will only take a second.” 

“S’alright, love.” There’s silence while she focuses on the work in front of her. Once she’s finished she carefully slips a small pair of gold scissors underneath the jacket and cuts the thread and needle she had been working with loose, detaching herself from Harry’s shoulder. “That was quick,” Harry says with a tone of surprise and Aurora thinks she can hear a little bit of disappointment as well. Aurora shrugs her shoulders in response. 

“Could you put on the black version of that jacket for me?” Aurora asks as she grabs a spool of black thread. “Think we might have the same problem with that one too.” She slides the needle she’s threaded with black thread onto the cuff of her sweater so she doesn’t lose it. She helps Harry into the black jacket and hangs up the one he just had on. 

“Aannddd there it is,” Harry says with chuckle as a strand of beads comes loose on his right sleeve. Aurora gets to work on the one on his sleeve as 2 more make themselves known on his back. “So you got my boots and loafers this morning? Up to anything else before I came in and ruined all the garments?” Aurora laughs and moves to his back to take care of the broken pieces there. 

“Uhm picked up that Calvin jacket and your custom boots. Let me tell you, those boots are glorious. The glossed leather with the steel tip will look incredible with your suits. ”

“Oh can I see them when we’re done?”

“‘Course you can!” There’s some silence between them again as she concentrates on the job in front of her. She catches a glimpse of the white gucci bags that are sitting by one of the wardrobe cases and it’s like those new sneakers are burning a hole in her head. It clicks in her head now that he’s been directing the conversation this way trying to get it out of her. “Hey Harry,” she’s met with a hum, “can I ask you about something?” She continues to work on the jacket, keeping her hands busy. She’s thankful that the strand she’s working on is on his back so she doesn’t have to make eye contact with him. 

“‘Course, Aurora.” 

“Uhm, at Gucci this morning, they uh, they fitted me for sneakers,” Harry hums in response, “and um, I-I, um, that was very kind of you.” She’s stuttering through her words. It wasn’t until now that she got a tinge of nervousness. “Y-you didn’t need to do that. Really.” 

“Aurora, I wanted to. And I thought you deserved some new shoes.” She can’t see his face but she can hear the smile that’s formed on his face. “We’ve got a few countries to trek around the next few months.” 

Moments later she’s finished repairing what she can and she’s sliding Harry’s jacket off his shoulders. “Thank you, Harry,” she says finally after the black jacket is hung back on its Gucci hanger on the rolling rack near them. “Seriously, too kind.” 

“No such thing as too kind, Ror,” he quips back and before she can comment on the nickname, he’s talking again. “Now what else do you need me to try on?” 

The afternoon goes by quickly and Harry is patient with her. He stands up straight in each new piece and asks questions about different things she’s making notes of or checking off of her thousands of lists. She checks her watch quickly as she’s making one last note. 

“How is it 3 o’clock already?” Aurora stammers out. “Sorry to take your entire afternoon from you.” 

“Don’t worry about it, Ror.” Harry’s pulling down the hem of his white tshirt he walked in wearing earlier today, “Nice to spend some time with ya and seems like you’ve been able to check a lot off your list.” 

“You probably have a list a mile long of things that need to be done this week too, though,” she rebuttals. “Or do you have someone to take care of those things for you?” she jokes. 

“Oh yeah, don’t remember their name, but I just tell them everything I need done and they do it for me.” The look on Aurora’s face is utter disgust, unable to politely react because she wasn’t expecting that answer.  There was no hint of sarcasm in Harry’s voice. Harry’s face is still and he’s silent for a moment before his nose scrunches up and a giggle erupted from his mouth. “Ror, I’m totally kidding.” He’s placed a hand on her shoulder now, rubbing his thumb soothingly. 

“Harry,” she’s giggling along now too, “you had me for a second.” 

Harry thanks her for her work and the time spent together today and leaves only after giving her a hug and a short kiss on her cheek. 

The next few days are spent hand stitching gold and silver beads onto those 2 Gucci jackets, labeling every single piece of the wardrobe and then organizing the giant crates for the travel managers to take and get ready to fly. She walks through all of the wardrobes multiple time and completes fittings with all of Harry’s band members as well. Brief 1 hour time frames are scheduled with each of them, Clare, Sarah, Adam and Mitch. Lambert pops in to make sure the final fittings went well and pays complements to Aurora’s new sneakers she’s sporting with a knowing look on his face. 

There’s one day left till the first tour stop and the arena is just about empty. The stage is packed up, the wardrobe crates have been taken from Aurora and the number of people in the arena is starting to dwindle down. Since everything is already loaded on a truck making its way to the airport Aurora didn’t have much to do today but she kept herself busy at the apartment she’s been at all week for the majority of the morning. She’s repacked multiple times getting everything to fit perfectly, almost committing the perfect folding techniques and order of adding things to her suitcase to memory. Everyone is to arrive at the airport early the next morning but Harry has arranged for a group lunch at the arena for one last collective meeting before the tour starts.

Aurora arrives a few minutes early to the lunch and says hello to a few crew members she’s gotten to know. Lambert is there too - seems that Harry has invited anyone who has helped with the prep of the tour regardless if they’re coming along or not. She also meets a few more new faces like Ayae, Harry’s hair and makeup stylist. She’s new to the tour group and hasn’t been needed for prep so this his her 1st time meeting a lot of the crew too. She sits down with Aurora and Lambert at a table and is engaging in a conversation about this and that when Harry comes up to the table with Jeff. Jeff is a familiar face to Aurora even though she has only interacted with him a few times.  Jeff always seems to be everywhere - Aurora always makes mental acknowledgment about how he is consistently working on something but always is seemingly available to everyone. 

Alicia, a woman probably in her late 30’s, is following Harry and Jeff with a grey rolling cart like you would see in an old cafeteria and it’s filled with large cardboard boxes. Aurora has met Alicia and remembers Lambert introducing her as the Tour Merchandise Manager. 

“Aurora, Ayae, Harry, great to see all of you! Doing alright, I assume?” Jeff asks while rounding the cart and reaching a hand in the box. 

“Got some tour sweatshirts for everyone, treat people with kindness and all that,” Harry adds in, running a hand through his hair. It isn’t until now that Aurora notices the length of his hair. It’s not as short as it was when she first met him but it’s nowhere near the length she remembers him having while still in One Direction. There is one curl that won’t stay back no matter how many times he runs his hand through it to push it back. The lone curl falls against his forehead one last time before he gives up. 

“Oh, very humble of you, Harry,” Ayae says with a chuckle while examining the sweatshirt Alicia had just given her.

It’s a plain black Champion hoodie with 2 small pieces of embroidery, 1 on the left of the chest and the other on the inside of the right arm. Ayae is referring to the large embroidered “Harry” on the chest. Underneath his name is ‘World Tour 2018’. Hah. He’s gotta love this shit. His name written on everything. Clothing, signs, his name is branded everywhere. 

“Heyyyyy,” Harry’s voice is slightly whiny, both of his eyes scrunch up and his brows furrow. The ‘hey’ turns into a giggle and they all laugh along with him. Harry then hands Aurora her sweatshirt. “Here ya go, Ror.” She thanks him softly after taking it from him. 

Post lunch, Harry, Jeff and a few others talk about how excited they are and how successful the prep went all week. The Head Travel Manager, Daniel, reminds everyone to double check their itinerary when they get home tonight and to double, triple, quadruple check they’ve packed everything. Harry yells something about making sure everyone’s got their passport cause “long story short” he forgot his once and it was not a day full of kindness. The large group chuckles at his little antidote before the room begins to clear out and everyone heads home to get ready to travel the next day. 

Thanks for reading !!! Feedback & comments are always welcome !!! 

[imaginesforyourfandom]

Loving Her: Alex Morgan - Epilogue

(Y/N) POV 2021

I groaned when I felt Alex start to hit me in my sleep. I woke up and sat up ready to be angry before I saw the panic on her face mixed with pain.

“(Y/N)! Baby! Coming! Now!” she yelled as I woke up fully. I immediately flew out of the bed and ran to pull on some clothes before grabbing the baby bag. I ran back over to her and helped her stand as I walked her towards the car. The drive to the hospital was only like 10 minutes and 5 if I broke speeding laws.

“It’s okay. Just breathe love…I’m going to get us there.” She nodded her head as I helped her into the car and dialed the hospital to let them know we would be coming.

Just as I predicted, it was only a 5-minute drive as we pulled into the emergency parking. I helped her out of the car and walked her into the hospital. There were nurses waiting for us as they immediately put Alex into a wheelchair and escorted us to a room. On the way, I dialed our families and some friends and told them that Alex was about to have the baby. Our friends wished us luck while our families promised to show up soon.

“Hey baby…I am right here…” I said softly as she nodded her head. “You got this…”

“It hurts.” She said as I nodded my head.

“I know, but it will be over soon…then we get to meet our baby…”

The nurse came in to check on Alex and make sure she was doing okay before taking a look to see how dilated she was.

“Good News…from the looks you should be ready to push in the next hour…”

“Hour?” Alex squeaked as she looked at me.

“It’s okay. It’ll pass by so quickly.” I said as she glared at me. “I love you so much.”

About an hour and a half later, the doctor showed up and we started pushing. I was on Alex’s side the whole time giving her as much support as I could.

“Okay Alex one more big push…” he said as she screamed and squeezed my hand which was numb at this point. The room was then filled with loud crying as Alex collapsed backwards in exhaustion. I smiled at her as the nurse gave me scissors to cut the cord. They took the baby as I turned back towards Alex.

“You did so good baby…” I said as she gave me a tired smile. I kissed her brushing some hair out of her face.

“Congratulations on a beautiful and healthy baby boy.” The nurse said handing the baby to Alex. I smiled at them both as I felt tears come to my eyes at the baby in Alex’s arms. She held him for a few minutes before passing him to me. I smiled as I held my son in my arms.

A little while later, I went and found our family. It was Alex’s family, my family, and then Christen and some of the other girls from the team.

“Hey” I said smiling said as they all approached me.

“Well…” her mom said as I laughed a little.

“It’s a boy.” I said as they all smiled at me and her mom gave me a hug. “You guys want to meet him?” They all nodded as they came with me into the room. Everyone washed their hands as I picked up my son.

“What’s his name?” her mom asked as I handed him to her.

“Christopher Morgan. Chris for short.” Alex said as a couple heads turned towards her. Christen turned and gave me a curious look as I smiled at her.

“Named a little after one of the best people I know…” I said as she shook her head at me. Alex gave me a warm smile as I turned my attention towards her.

Everyone took turns talking to Alex and holding Chris before some of them bid farewell to give Alex a chance to relax.

“Christen can you stay really quick…?” She nodded her head as everyone exited the room.

“We wanted to ask you something.” Alex said as I placed Chris back in his bed.

“What’s up?”

“We were wondering if you would consider being Christopher’s godmother…” I said carefully as she gave me a wide-eyed look.

“Oh my god…yes of course I will.” I grinned as she came around the bed to hug me and then gave Alex a hug.

“Thank god.” I said as Alex smiled.

“Who’s the godfather?” she asked after a moment as I smiled.

“Dom.” Alex said as Christen gave me a curious look.

“As in Dwyer?” I nodded my head as Chris nodded her head.

“That’s a choice.” Alex and I both laughed before Alex explained.

“He’s a great dad and there really is no man I trust more other than my dad.”

“What about Santiago or Sebastian?” Christen asked as I shook my head.

“We agreed to pick our own people and then decide on that. I wanted you to be the godmother, so she had to pick the godfather.”

“Well, I am honored.” She said as we continued chatting for a few more minutes before deciding to leave. “I will leave you both to rest.” She left giving Chris a smile before exiting the room. I looked over in the direction of the baby before looking at Alex.

“A baby.” I joked as she gave me a small smile. “I am so proud of you.”

“I’m just happy it’s over and we can enjoy our baby now…” I nodded my head giving her a kiss. I sat and watched her drift off into sleep before walking over and smiling down at my son. I will be a better parent than I had. My son will always know how loved he is. I went back sitting down in the chair next to Alex’s bed before drifting off to sleep. Dreams of the future the only thing on my mind.

Two Years Later…

I stood in shock as the moment washed over me. I turned my head just as Alex got to me and wrapped her arms around me. I then felt more bodies collide with us as the crowd cheered around us. I buried my head into Alex as we both tried to fight back tears.

“We did it…back to back to back.” She said as I nodded my head. The other girls went around celebrating as I pulled Alex in for a kiss. I never thought I would win a world cup let alone a second one. Alex is a three-time champion. This doesn’t even feel real.

We continued celebrating as we made our way to the stands. I smiled when Pam handed Chris to me as Alex and I both celebrated with our son. The celebrations continued long into the night before Alex and I finally landed in bed around 4 am.

“Can I tell you something?” I turned my head towards my wife as she gave me a soft look.

“I think next year will be my last…” I sat up giving her a skeptical look.

“Are you sure?” she nodded her head.

“I want to go to the Olympics, but I also want more babies…I know you do too.” I sighed as I thought about the conversation, we were both avoiding.

“Of course, I do, but I don’t want either of us to put our careers on hold…”

“I’ve had a long career.” She said sitting up and resting her head against my shoulder. “You still have a lot left in you. I want more kids and I don’t think it will be as easy to come back from a second pregnancy.”

“Syd did it…so did Amy. You can too.”

“I don’t want too though…I want to live with you and our babies. I want both of us to be present in Chris’ life and our future babies. I’m fine with just being a mom.”

“I just don’t want you to feel like you have too.”

“I don’t feel like that. I want to do this.” she said softly as she leaned over to give me a kiss.

“Okay…you know I support you no matter what.” She nodded her head leaning in to give me another kiss.

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Two More Years Later…

“You know you think a second time would be easier…” I commented as Alex glared at me.

“Shut up before I punch you…” I smiled at the former forward as she glanced over in the direction of the two beds.

“Twins…” I said after a moment as she nodded her head.

“Yeah…”

“Can you believe?” I asked after a moment as she turned to glare at me again

“Yes, I felt it…” I grimaced at the flashes of her in labor went through my head.

“Two beautiful babies though…” I said as she nodded her head. The door opened when Chris came running into the room. Christen was right behind him as I grinned picking him up. I held him close to me while he seemed to look around the room in curiosity.

“What’s wrong with mama?” he asked as I turned towards Alex who gave him a tired smile.

“She’s just tired.” I replied earning a head nod from him. He reached for Alex who gave me a look indicating it was okay. I sat him on the bed as he leaned against her. He didn’t seem so interested in meeting the babies, but rather he wanted Alex’s attention. Nothing new there. I walked over to where Christen was looking at the twins, while he told Alex about his day.

“Twins…who knew?” Christen joked as I smiled.

“I know.”

“Are these ones named after friends as well?” I laughed shaking my head.

“No, this is Aurora, and this is Avery.” I said motioning to the girls as she nodded her head. “Sebastian and Jeri will be the godparents for Aurora and Jeni and Santiago will be the godparents for Avery.”

“Do people usually split it up like that?” I shook my head as she laughed.

“I don’t know, but for it to be fair we did…” I turned when Alex called my name.

“He wants to meet the girls.” I nodded my head as I walked over and picked him up.

“You can’t touch yet, but these are your little sisters. This is Aurora and this is Avery.” I said as he stared at the girls in wonder.

“My little sisters?” I nodded my head as he touched the glass of one of the beds. “I’m gonna be a good big brother.”

“Yeah?” he nodded his head at me.

“I have to protect my little sisters.”

“Yeah you do…” I said as Christen gave me an amused look. “You gotta make sure no one messes with them.”

We let him sit with the girls for a few more minutes before Christen agreed to take him home. He would be staying with her for a few days before Alex could leave the hospital. The rest of the day was spent with people coming in and out of the room before Alex and I were finally alone again.

“Get some rest love…you’ve had a long day.” I said softly as Alex rested her head back into the pillow.

“Stay by my side” she mumbled as I smiled at her.

“Always.”

Two More Years Later…

“How are you hanging up?” I turned towards Sebastian who gave me a soft look.

“I’m alright.”

“Alex said you seemed sad over your retirement…” Santiago mumbled as I nodded my head.

“I am, but I know it was the right decision…” I said as some of the kids went running past us.

“I bet you’re enjoying more time with the family.” I nodded my head as I watched Chris play with some of his friends.

“Yeah that’s been great…” I mumbled more to myself than to them.

“Alex said you guys are thinking of having more kids as well…” I nodded my head as Seb smiled. “That’s great.”

“Yeah, I can’t wait…”

“Is Alex going to carry again?” I shook my head earning shocked looks from both men.

“You’re going to carry?” I nodded my head as Santi laughed.

“I literally can’t imagine you pregnant…” he said as I gave him a look. “You’re going to be a nightmare.”

“That’s rude.” Seb said as I turned towards him. “I am so happy for you.”

“I am too.” Santiago hugged me as I laughed at him.

“Did you ever think your life would end up like this?” I turned towards Seb again as I shook my head.

“Not in a million years…” I said as Alex brought the cake out and placed it on the table. I walked over to where she was as she and Christen started arranging things so we could sing.

“That is a beautiful cake…” I said as Alex smiled at me.

“He picked it out.” She said placing the candle shaped like a six on the cake.

“So, he has good taste like his mom.” I said as she rolled her eyes. I smiled leaning in to give her a kiss. She shook her head as I then felt a pair of arms wrap around my leg. I looked down to see Aurora smiling up at me. I picked her up and held her close to me.

I watched Alex call all the kids over so we could sing for Chris. She picked up Avery while Christen motioned for Chris to get closer to the cake. We sang and ate cake. Eventually, people started leaving since it was getting late. Jeni and Jeri both volunteered to put the babies down, so I went to join some of the adults who were sitting and talking together.

“All I am saying is that he is going to be a heartbreaker…” Santiago said putting his hands up in a defensive position. Alex adjusted her position a little while I sat with her wrapping my arms around her waist.

“What are we talking about?”

“Christopher and how he is going to break so many hearts when he’s older…” Santi said as I shook my head.

“Yeah, well he better respect women…”

“Then, he probably shouldn’t listen to Santiago.” Sebastian said taking a sip of his beer as I nodded my head.

“I’m not that bad and Chris won’t be either.”

“If you teach my son bad habits, I swear I will-”

“What? What will you do?” Santi asked as I gave him a look.

“Well, honestly…I won’t need to do anything because Alex and Christen will kill you…” I said as he gave me a doubtful look.

“I will kill you.” Alex said as I smiled triumphantly

“Christen will murder you too. She’s trying to teach him to respect people.” Tobin said as I nodded my head. “My wife is one scary woman.”

“Yeah she is…” I mumbled earning laughs from everyone.

“I believe in Christopher. That boy drinks his respect woman juice.” Sonnet said as I laughed.

“First off, I never said Chris would be a problem. Secondly, I am not afraid of Christen.”

“Are you sure about that?” He jumped when Christen came up from behind him earning more laughs from everyone around us. She smiled and sat with Tobin as Santi gave her a skeptical look.

“I was.” He said as she gave him an amused grin.

“If you corrupt my godson, there is no place you can hide.” She said seriously as everyone tried not to laugh at the fearful look on Santi’s face.

Eventually, everyone left. Once I made sure Chris was asleep, I turned off his light and checked on the twins. They were both sound asleep, so I made my way around the house in search of my wife. I finally found her out on our balcony looking up at the stars. I walked out and wrapped my arms around her.

“Can you believe it?” I asked as she shook her head “Our little family.”

“It’s amazing.” She mumbled leaning back into my arms.

“I know. However, did I get so lucky…” I pondered out loud earning a small smile from my wife.

“I ask myself that all the time…” she said as I smiled. She turned in my arms wrapping hers around my neck as I pulled her as close to me as possible.  

“I love you so much Alex.”

“I love you too.” She gave me one final kiss before letting go and taking a hold of my hand. She pulled me towards the house as we checked on the kids one more time before falling into bed together. I fell asleep with nothing but dreams of my wonderful family and the future we still had yet to discover.

The End.

[helgaw321]

Takeru’s 155 Q&A

To start off things, let me share (again) one of my most satisfying works from last year, that is Takeru’s Q&A section from his 30th birthday anniversary book. Looking back, I think I worked on this one for almost one week, and It felt really satisfying to finish it on Takeru’s 31th birthday ❤️

Once again, enjoy!

(Disclaimer: All translations are done by myself, pls don’t repost without permission, thank you!)

===========

These are the questions sent by fans through Takeru's official LINE account. Thank you for all of your participation!!

1. Is there anything you would like to do or achieve in 2019? I'd like to do anything good for my body

2. If there is one day you're not Satou Takeru anymore, what will you do? Go to sauna

3. If there is one day you become a girl, what will you do? Sing Sheena Ringo's songs in the original key

4. If you can travel back in time, when would you go? Middle high school

5. If you are being reborn, do you want to be yourself again? Not really

6. If there is an "Anywhere Door", where would you like to go? The world's best views

7. Do you think aliens exist? Not in this solar system I think

8. 10 years from now, what kind of father do you want to be? I want to avoid using weird emoji

9. If you move abroad, which country would you choose? Maybe America or Canada

10. If you got the chance to direct a film, what kind of film and who are the casts? Horror. Because it seems difficult to explain, I'll do it myself.

11. If you have to become one of the characters you've played before, who will you choose? Shishigami Hiro

12. Among of the movies created in the past, is there any movie you like to have acted in? (Anything from) Ghibli

13. Who would you like to meet the most right now? And what will you ask him/her? Hanyu (Yuzuru)-kun. "Do you want to join Amuse (Takeru's agency)?"

14. Anything you want to overcome in this year? Coughing out when sleeping

15. If you can go with your mom on a trip, where would you like to go? I don't know. I'll go where she would want to go

16. When you see food with the name you see for the first time, do you dare try? Or you tend to play safe? I tend to take the challenge.

17. If you can meet your 20-year-old self, what would you like to say? Nothing in particular

18. What kind of present you would like to receive in last year of Heisei-era? Speakers that can be used in bathroom

19. Where would you like to go on honeymoon? The world's best views

20. What would you like to do in your last day of your life? I don't want to know that day is the end of my life

21. If you can take a long holiday, what would you like to do? Watch movies. Escape room games.

22. I love Takeru-kun's singing voice. If someday you get to sing in your next project, do you want to do it? I don't mind

23. If you weren't in the entertainment world, what would you do? I imagined myself to study something related to science-field in university, but I don't know what to do next

24. What else you like in sushi other than Kohada (gizzard shad)? Between tuna and salmon, which one do you like? Tuna. I also like squid and uni (sea urchin). And also button shrimp

25. If you become an invisible person, what would you want to do? State secrets investigation

26. Favorite movie? Kimi no Na wa (Your name)

27. Do you like sweets? I like it but I rarely snacking

28. Favorite smell? Morning forest

29. What do you like in osechi (traditional Japanese new year food)? Kamaboko (fish cake)

30. Favorite manga? Tenshi na Konamaiki (Cheeky Angel) (note: he said in Yakai before that his first love is the heroine from this manga XD)

31. Do you like to go to onsen? Yes

32. If you have your own favorite/most disliked body parts, please tell us! I won't say because it's embarassing

33. Favorite color? Navy blue

34. Favorite kind of noodles? Cold soba

35. Favorite season? Winter

36. Do you like horumon (cuisine made from pork or beef offal)? I like it more than average people

37. You went to lots of places during filming or doing promotion for movies, do you have favorite region? Also please tell us if you have a must-eat food there! Hitsumabushi in Nagoya

38. If i remembered correctly, you've said that you like your home, is there any other place you like? I also like hotel

39. Any recommendation for foreign drama? Friends

40. Favorite novel? Shigatsu ni nareba Kanojo wa (also titled April Girlfriend - by Kawamura Genki)

41. What do you usually add when you eat medamayaki (fried egg)? Salt and pepper or Shoyu

42. What do you usually add when you eat freshly cooked white rice? Karashi (spicy) mentaiko

43. Please tell us your order of eating sushi! Omakase (literally meaning "I'll leave it up to you", a special course when the customer leaves it up to the chef to serve)

44. What are your memories of doing Kamen Rider? Commuting in a crowded train

45. Please tell us a happy episode from filming Den-O! We sometimes would go to Jojoen near Oizumi Studio

46. Who is your favorite Imajin from Den-O? Ura(taros)

47. If you act as (Nogami) Ryoutarou right now, what kind of person you think he will be? I think people will not change that much

48. If you have a child, what name will you give him/her? I think 2 letters would be nice

49. Among the actors-actresses you haven't co-starred with, who would you want to work together with? Fukatsu (Eri)-san

50. Among all of your projects, which role is the most fun/memorable? Rookies was fun

51. Do you still continue to learn English? Yes

52. Among all of roles you've played, was there a moment when you think it resembles yourself? Probably no

53. Is there any place inside Japan you want to go? Never-visited islands

54. Is there anything you want to learn right now? I want to learn to dance

55. When you first meet a person, what is the first thing you will look at? I got this question a lot and until now I don't know the answer. I wonder what I will look at first

56. What role you want to try this year? As a runaway child

57. Among all of your projects, is there anything you wouldn't want to watch? Basically I don't want to watch it. I don't watch most of it.

58. If you can do a sequel, is there a work you want to do? Rurouni, Kanouso, Gibomusu

59. Is there any villain role from movie/drama/manga/novel that you want to do? I'd like to if there's any (interesting roles)

60. Before you do a crying scene, how do you usually spend your time? Depends on the scene

61. What is your description of "Kakkoii"? Taking the initiative in what people hate, and don't show off your action

62. You said that you didn't like saba no misoni (mackerel with miso), was it because you didn't like mackerel itself? When I saw "saba no misoni" in school lunch menu, I would be very dissapointed. I like mackarel though.

63. If you got an offer for main cast in Taiga drama, will you take it? I like that kind of question where you don't think "If it's the main cast for Taiga I'll definitely do it"

64. Something to do to keep you healthy? Sleep 12 hours

65. Do you have any actor friends? Everyone that gave their comments in this book

66. How do you feel when you work in Rurouni Kenshin kiri (` ・ω・‘) (note: this is the actual answer (i only changed hiragana to romaji/alphabet), kiri/kiru is to cut/slash in japanese, so maybe he just felt like slashing ppl all the time XDD)

67. Something that makes you feel "I can die peacefully after doing this"? Become Ajin

68. What is the scariest thing in the world? Please see video original version of "Ju-on"

69. Have you seen Aurora? No

70. When you take a bath, what part of the body you washed first? Head

71. In what moment do you usually can be yourself the most? I am myself mostly everytime

72. If fans reach out to you in your private time, how far can we go e.g handshake/photograph? It'll be embarassing to take a photo, so only handshake is good

73. We always see Takeru-san in the acting side, do you ever think of creating a movie? If I create a movie, I also want to act in that movie

74. You showed us for a short moment in Horoyoi ads, but I want to hear more of your singing voice! Recently, is there any song that you will definitely sing in karaoke? Marigold, no I'm lying. I don't have such song.

75. You always give your best during promotions for dramas/movies, but was there any tough times? Ehh you're so kind.

76. You said that you want to take a break in this year because you've worked hard in last year, did that feeling change? It's not like I want to take break, but I think my exposure level is decreasing compared to last year

77. In Kanouso, during the moment when you weren't supposed to cry but tears suddenly fell down, how to control such emotion? I looked at her (Riko) face

78. Is there any actor/actress you admire? If I tell you, you will be more aware of that person, so because I don't want you to have such thought, I won't tell you.

79. How did you spend your time during 2019 new year? I watched Unnatural with my family at home

80. What is your special skill? Othello

81. Do you use perfume? I don't usually use it but because we're making it (as anniversary goods) this time so I'm using that.

82. When thinking about Takeru-kun, your image is strongly tied with solving riddles, how did you get into it? Also how much time did you spend in 1 day? My first time was when my friends invited me to play escape games. As long as time allows me to do it, I can do it all day.

83. Among all of Hanbun, Aoi cast, who is your best friend? Kan-chan (Suzume's daughter)

84. If you meet a person that you want to befriend, are you the type who reach out to him/her, or wait? Reach out

85. Regardless of gender, what kind of person you're not good at? People who makes mistakes

86. What is your decisive factor when choosing a project? Whether I want or I don't want to do it

87. By any chance, is Takeru-san the type of genius person with photographic memory? I'm not that kind of person

88. What do you sing when you go to karaoke? Radwimps

89. Do you do any muscle training? I do but depends on the timing

90. When you go out with somebody you like on a date, in what situation do you like? Autumn leaves

91. Has anybody said to you that you resemble someone (in entertainment world)? Shouhei's wife (Kiritani Mirei) (note: why he won't say her name directly XDD)

92. Do you have any age restriction for marriage? I'd like to do it in my 30s if I can

93. Why do you become "a man lost in love"? What a good word to express it. Love is not something you experience several times, isn't it?

94. What kind of hair type do you like for girl? I like natural, not shaped ones

95. In what moment do you think girls are cute? When you see they are excited when I choose her in SUGAR

96. When you found a girl you like, do you actively "attack" her? Of course if I like her

97. Do you like a woman who will casually do body touch, doing upward gaze, and sort of the aggresive type? I don't like it at all

98. In what moment you think you can't help but liking a girl? When she casually do body touch, do upward gaze (note: so which one do you actually like LOL -- refer to Q97)

99. Between older and younger woman, which one do you like? I like both

100. What kind of girl do you like? Girls with narrow "strike zone"

101. What is the minimum requirement for your partner to marry you? I no longer have such requirement

102. As a man, what do you think of a man who keeps looking at his phone, keeps looking at the clock when dating a woman? It's not a good thing to do, it's like he doesn't care about his partner.

103. What do you think about a fun and easygoing girl? Girls with good sense of humor are good

104. When you have a girlfriend, what kind of homemade food will you make for her? Miso soup

105. What kind of make up do you like for girls? As long as she doesn't overdo it

106. I have a person I can't forget even after so many years, Does Takeru-kun have that kind of experience? Yes for a few years, but I don't know what will happen for 10+ years

107. I called my nephews and nieces with nicknames. Does Takeru-kun have any nicknames you want to be called with? I like Takeru-san rather than Takeru-kun

108. What sound do you use as your alarm ringtone? Default settings

109. You have a really beautiful skin. Do you have any advice for it? Moisturizing

110. Any activities you've been into lately? Alternate baths (also called contrast bath therapy) (note: a kind of bath therapy where you alternate between hot and cold baths.)

111. Where do you usually go? Most recent is gym

112. Do you still hate caterpillars? Sorry, but yes

113. Do you cook? Do you have any specialities? Nope

114. Where and how you usually memorize your script? I usually memorize it with my costars moments before shooting in the set

115. For Takeru-san who loves reading, how do you usually choose books to read? I'd usually pick friends' recommendation

116. When you sleep do you prefer to turn on or off the lights? Turn off. I can't stand even the lights from humidifier

117. In what moment do you think it's nice being an actor? When people are being nice to you

118. Things like clothes, bags, shoes, is there anything that you have to make sure it's in good quality before you buy? Towel

119. If you have one full day with your beloved cats, what will you do? Cuddling its cheek

120. If you are being reborn as a cat, who do you want to take care of you? Do you want to play together with Kochirou and Puchirou in Satou's family house? Yes. (note: Kochirou and Puchirou are his beloved cats currently living in his parents' house)

121. If you can have one more cat, what name will you give? At least not names in katakana

122. Are you a dog person? Cat person? Cat

123. As a cat-lover, which part of a cat do you like? Face

124. What is your favorite Kochirou and Puchirou's pose? When they become rounded like a ball

125. If you can have a dog, what kind of dog do you like? Shiba-inu

126. Beside cat, do you have any other animals you'd like to have? Dolphin

127. Where do you want to live? Shiodome maybe

128. Have you give your mom presents from home bakery? Yes. I think you can also make mochi with those

129. If you're doing a solo trip, where will you go? Canada

130. How do you get along with Nobu-san (from Chidori)? We were working together in a variety show and I ask for his phone number

131. You were famous among the older people from long ago, what do you think about that? I don't really care about the age as long as I still got the "waa" and "kyaa"

132. In what moment do you feel happy? When I solved a riddle

133. What is your favorite song from Takahashi Yuu-kun? Hachigatsu Muika (August 6) (note: he sang this song in his 30th birthday event)

134. If you have to give a score for your acting career up until now, how many points out of 100? 60

135. In the future, can you create an event where fans can meet you directly? Yes

136. You've said before that because you can't tidy your room up so your mom had to visit your house to tidy things up, is it still the same now? I've become independent now

137. I'm still a kid, an elementary school student. When I talk about Kamen Rider, there are some kids who get along with me, but there also kids who call me weird. Is it alright that I still love Kamen Rider? Please tell me. I was also called weird by my friends in my school days so it will be alright

138. Do you plan to go to Kyoto in this year? I already go there few times

139. In what moment do you feel the happiest? I can't decide between the moment when I saw at Ruroken's (sales) performance or when I managed to clear an escape game challenge, or when I was in elementary school when I got into Yu-Gi-Oh, I got Summoned Skull from a booster pack.

140. Was there a moment when you cried while watching a movie? Usually I cried watching touching movies

141. Between the roles you've played almost simultaneously, such as Ritsu in Hanbun, Aoi, Mugita in Gibomusu, and Kazuo in Oku Otoko, which one is the most difficult to play? Kazuo

142. Recently, is there a moment when you laughed so hard? I was hitting my knees laughing while watching Aiseki Shokudou (Chidori's show) at home

143. Please tell us an episode from Kouhaku! When I hesitated to wave my penlight, but then I saw Nomura Mansai-san was waving his so I decided to follow

144. Please tell us your recommended places to visit from "Rurouni-hon Kumamoto e". Nature is always recommended. Negative ions are good for the body. (note: "Rurouni-hon Kumamoto e" was a book about Takeru doing a trip in Kumamoto, promoting places especially those which were affected by Kumamoto earthquake. A portion of the sales were donated to support Kumamoto recovery)

145. You said in the past that you couldn't sleep for a long time, how is it now? Hm it's complex but I think my internal body clock feels off

146. When telling our thoughts about your movies/dramas, do you have any preferred ways that makes you happy? When you shared it in the internet

147. My son is telling me that he wants to be a voice actor and wants to go to a vocational school. As a parent, should I support him? Did Takeru-kun get your parents' support when you want to be an actor? My parents had no objection at that time. It didn't cost me any money. By the way, do professional voice actors learn in vocational schools? I support him to become a voice actor, but I'm not sure if it's the right decision to enroll in a vocational school to become a voice actor.

148. Among all the places you've visited during your work or private trips, do you have any recommendation for us? Salar de Uyuni (note: he went to this place for X photobook)

149. When you watch a movie, do you prefer to read the original story first or straight to the movie? If I want to enjoy the movie, I'd watch the movie first. If I want to enjoy the book, I'd read the book first.

150. Can I hug you when I meet you? Maybe no

151. Do you use washing machine for drying your clothes? What will happen to your clothes after that? Wrinkled

152. What is the most important thing or person to you? People who put their faith in me

153. Are you looking forward to expand your career overseas? Rather than wanting to work in a Hollywood movie, I prefer to think more on how to make Japanese movies more visible to the world.

154. Is there anything you'd like to do in your 30s, any target or resolution? I have a few in mind, but I'll tell you when I manage to accomplish them

155. Please tell us about your vision of living your life from now on! I hope I can do more of what I want to do.

(pic: https://satohtakeru.amuseblog.jp/blog/2019/03/30th-anniversar-1c47.html)

[bubblegumstardust]

i havent bombarded you with questions in a long ass time so here i am (feel free to skip some if its too much): 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 (i know you probably won’t even have to google), 16, 17, 18, 24, 27, 29, 33, 36, 41, 47, 51, 58, 59, 61, 66, 71, 74, 75, 76, 79, 80, 90, 95 and finally 100🥰🥰

Dear God Chelle 😂😂💕💕

So sorry this is so long but I can't do read more on mobile

1: when you have cereal, do you have more milk than cereal or more cereal than milk?

I try to have more cereal generally but I just chuck milk in randomly and if it ends up being more then it ends up being more 🤷‍♀️

3: what random objects do you use to bookmark your books?

I generally just use an actual bookmark, but some things I've used in a pinch are: receipts, a pen, sunglasses, some mail, another book, debit card, a hairband, my purse

4: how do you take your coffee/tea?

I don't drink coffee and I just have a teaspoon or 2 of sugar in my tea

7: do you name your plants?

Yep, I have 2 in my room called Ellie and Nyah. I even named their pots because they're cute and shaped like a sheep and a hippo! The pots are called Pippa and Mimi and they're girlfriends

8: what artistic medium do you use to express your feelings?

Generally writing I guess. I do a lot of painting/drawing too but that's less feeling expression and more just fun.

9: do you like singing/humming to yourself?

Yep, and I'm probably very annoying to share space with because I do it a lot

10: do you sleep on your back, side, or stomach?

On my side and I have to switch like every 10 minutes when I'm trying to sleep or I get uncomfortable

11: what’s an inner joke you have with your friends?

Literally cannot think off the top of my head. @wonderfilledness, remind me please. Also Chelle tell me any of ours I might have forgotten.

12: what’s your favorite planet?

In our solar system, Pluto because fuck science, it's a planet! Other than that there's a planet I can't remember the name of that, because of rotation speeds, always has the same side facing the sun so like most of the planet is uninhabitable except a thin strip on either side between the two

13: what’s something that made you smile today?

The pup. Also I was helping my mum make masks and I completely fucked up and it was really funny

14: if you were to live with your best friend in an old flat in a big city, what would it look like?

Ngl it would be a mess. Also probably covered in books and art stuff and it'd probably be light and airy with lots of plants and cute pastel colours

15: go google a weird space fact and tell us what it is!

Oh where to begin! Okay so for one NASA had to design a special pen for use in space because due to the lack of gravity, normal pens don't work. Any liquid in space will form itself into a sphere due to surface tension. Sunsets on Mars are blue. There's a planet where it's constantly raining glass sideways because wind speeds are so high. There's a (I think) dwarf planet in our solar system that they nicknamed The Goblin. Planet 9 is something we can observe exists but no one can find it and it might not be a planet at all. It could be a black hole or something. The moon is slowly drifting away. I'm gonna stop here but I could go on for ages.

16: what’s your favorite pasta dish?

Fucken love a good spaghetti bolognese

17: what color do you really want to dye your hair?

Kinda want it pastel pink or purple again but also really wanna dye it like a deep turquoise colour

18: tell us about something dumb/funny you did that has since gone down in history between you and your friends and is always brought up.

Excuse me how dare you assume I've done anything dumb! Tbh I definitely have but again my memory is really bad for stuff like this so I'm gonna turn to @wonderfilledness and @mooncloudsea for this again

24: is there someone out there you would trust with every single one of your secrets?

Tbh, you Chelle. Also I'd definitely trust Alice with them but it's somehow easier to tell you because admiting stuff face to face is horrible and I can only talk to you online really

27: what’s your favorite bubblegum flavor?

I don't like gum

29: what’s something really cute that one of your friends does and is totally endearing?

Everything all you guys do is cute 😘💕

33: what’s your fave pastry?

C r o i s s a n t s

36: which band’s sound would fit your mood right now?

Hmmm. I don't know what my mood is right now so like idk?

41: what’s the last book you remember really, really loving?

I mean I'm pretty sure the last book I actually read was Aurora Burning so I gotta say that

47: what food do you think should be banned from the universe?

Well there's plenty of foods I don't like but I'm not sure I'd ban any of them because there's always people who do like them.

51: think of a person. what song do you associate with them?

Okay it makes no sense but I always think of Alice when I here B0$$ by Fifth Harmony because it's one of the songs we always end up screaming along to in the car

58: who’s the wine mom and who’s the vodka aunt in your group of friends? why?

I feel like Alice is a vodka aunt and maybe I'm the wine mum?

59: what’s your favorite myth?

Idk actually. I quite like the echo myth though

61: what’s the stupidest gift you’ve ever given? the stupidest one you’ve ever received?

Honestly I have no idea 😂

66: what would your ideal flower crown look like?

Small little delicate one with lots of small cute flowers like daisies and other pink white and purple ones. Also it would be full of forget me nots because they're my favourite flowers.

71: what’s your favorite kind of tea?

Peppermint all the way

74: describe a good friend of yours without using their name or gendered pronouns.

They have short brown hair and give some of the best hugs. They're a couple inches taller than me and will not let me forget it. They also steal all my old clothes and would probably steal my dog if given the chance. They need to learn to fucken drive already and it's been too long since I last saw them

75: tell us about your pets!

He babey. He also a little shit but I adore him

76: is there anything you should be doing right now but aren’t?

So many things. Probably most importantly, applying for uni

79: what’s one of the cutest things someone has ever done for you?

Lol no one likes me enough to do something cute for me

80: what color are your bedroom walls? did you choose that color? if so, why?

Light purple. I chose it when we first moved here but painted it even lighter a couple years in

90: talk about your one of you favorite cities.

I'm generally not the biggest fan of cities but I actually really loved living in Nottingham. It was super developed and you had like everything you could need and want there but also really kept its historic feel and it never felt so overcrowded like places like London do and idk, it was just a really nice place to live

95: what are your plans for this weekend?

I don't really have any in particular. Probably do some more art and writing and stuff but idk really

100: if you were presented with two buttons, one that allows you to go 5 years into the past, the other 5 years into the future, which one would you press? why?

I usually pick future no question but like I'm a little concerned as to what such a near future will actually look like. Maybe the past so I can redo some stuff and make a few better life decisions and get help for my mental health sooner and also maybe find a way to do something to prevent some of the awful things happening right now

[dcnnafms]

*  taps  the  mic  * testing , testing , 1 , 2 , 3 .... hello ? *  clears  throat  * hi guys & gals & non binary pals  !!  i’m  taylor  weighing  in  at  the  solid  age  of 20  years  old  aka  a  glorified  teenager  because  really  what  can  i  do  that  a  19  year  old  can’t  lmao ?  i’m  from  the  est  & couldn’t  be  more  excited  to  have  found  this  beautiful  gem  of  a  roleplay  !  honestly i haven’t been this excited about a group in ... forever  !  so i cannot wait to start roleplaying with you all  !   but for now i’m going to leave you with this intro because i’m going to the pats game tonight  ?!  and need to run & get ready because my friends are on the way  !  without further ado though , i think it’s time for me to introduce you to my lil baby donna who i haven’t played in like 7 months so please bare with me here while i find my footing with her again !  if you’d like to plot just give this a like or shoot me an im & i promise i’ll get back to you when i get home later tonight !

note : here career is here in this post btw !

╰   stats .  ◞,

click here for the statistics page  .

╰   pinterest .  ◞,

click here for the pinterest page  .

╰   playlist .  ◞,

1. let you go by machine gun kelly , 2. bmo by ari lennox  ,  3. death by trippie redd ft. dababy  ,  4. agree to disagree by sleeping with siren  ,  5.  night shift by dave east ft. lil baby  , 6. violent crimes by kanye west  ,  7. runaway by aurora  ,  8. love song by lana del rey  ,  9. all the good girls go to hell by billie eilish  ,  10.  i think im okay by machine gun kelly ft. yungblood  ,  11. envy me by calboy  ,  12. cash s**t by megan thee stallion ft. dababy  ,  13. yellow hearts by ant sanders  ,  14. what to do? by jackboys ft. don toliver  ,  15. the git up by blanco brown  ,  16. erase your social by lil uzi vert  ,  17. everything i wanted by billie eilish  ,  18.  bandit by juice wrld ft youngboy never broke again  ,  19. bop by dababy  ,  20. candy by machine gun kelly ft. trippie redd  . 

╰   biography  .  ◞,

an only child born to a secretary for a mother & an often unemployed father in athens , ohio in late 1996 . life for young donna was nothing out of any film you would enjoy watching . a childhood full of neglect & growing up much too fast for your own good . her father , matthew , had fallen into heavy addiction just a year before donna’s birth & her mother , denise , had learned to bury her sorrows with a bottle of alcohol . well below the poverty index there were many nights she knew she wouldn’t come home to food on the table but instead a slew of addicts getting their high in the middle of the living room , keeping the young girl up at all times of the night with their rowdy antics . 

by the time she reached third grade she’d learned that her day at school would go over much more smoothly if she made sure she had her backpack, coat & on the one off chance that there was enough food in the house pack her lunch , because if she waited for one of her parents to do it for her she’d never make it to school on time . her mom often had to rush to work in a hungover state & her father didn’t wake up until after she was already due for school , so donna had relied on the bus to get to & from school each day . 

at twelve she’d realized that she was much happier the less time she spent at home & so she did all she could to stay out with her friends . she became one of those kids you passed wondering where their parents were at that time of night as them & their friends wreaked havoc in the streets of athens . picking up smoking weed at the ripe age of thirteen , she quickly learned nothing was a better fix for how much she’d hated her life than a quick blunt . she’d fallen into a dark place at a very young age & from her perspective there was really no way out of the downward spiral she had fallen into . she blamed her parents for messing her up so badly & often when she was home it turned into blows between herself & her parents the end result always landed her at one of her friends houses for the night. 

it wasn’t until she was fifteen that she befriended a new girl whose parents took a liking to donna & really took her in . it was something like a safe haven spot for her , somewhere she always knew she could go & they’d want to hear about her day or feed her . they’re the ones who learned of donna’s wanting to join the school theater club & urged her to do so . they attended her first performance & her second, third , fourth , etc . 

one of her performances at the school garnered the attention of a screenwriter who felt she was a perfect fit for a character they were in the process of creating . this was when her first hollywood deal came , initially turning it down as she had no means to so much as leave the city of athens forget travel to an entirely different state . the screenwriter offered to take care of her completely & before she knew it she was working on the first installment of the hunger games . 

when she got back to athens after spending a few months in los angeles she’d realized just how much potential there was out in the world . at this point she decided to take things within her life a bit more seriously . there was a life outside of athens , ohio & donna was craving for it now . making the conscious decision to focus on her schooling with the hopes that she’d be able to get into a decent university . college had never been so much as thought for donna before she’d left the city but after filming a movie , she realized almost anything was possible even for someone like her . 

during this same year , her parents split up & her father got back together with his highschool sweetheart , this prompted her father to admit to donna that she had a brother who was three years older than her , who was actually in college . the two got to know one another fairly well when he’d come back home from school during breaks & the two found themselves loving the idea of having a sibling . mutually upset that they’d spent so much of their time not knowing each other so much as existed . donna lived with her father & step-mother amanda in athens & the change in her father was more than visible .  she was more than happy that her father had gotten on the straight & narrow , no matter what had to take place for it to happen & who he needed in his life for it to take place . in this time her mother moved to cincinnati & the separation actually made the relationship between donna & her mother stronger . 

in 2014 , she graduated from highschool & had committed to attending ohio state university as a theater major . during her time in columbus , ohio she & her new found friends took a liking to the downtown area where they found a hidden gem bar that often held open mic nights . this is where donna was really able to cultivate her love for stand up , despite dabbling in it a few times back in high school & whenever she was out in los angeles . she took to college well & somehow managed to juggle her education , career & social life fairly well . if you ask her how she did it , she’ll always give all the credit to her brother brody & maybe some residual credit to weed . 

in her sophomore year she’d fallen in love for the very first time , with one of the quarterbacks at her university . they dated for two years before he’d decided to transfer to lousiana state university . she understood why he did it , he had a career in football he was chasing & she couldn’t be mad at him about that . despite the long distance & at times very hectic schedules between the two of them she worked on being the most supportive girlfriend she could to him & made it out to any & every game she possibly could of his . 

after graduating from ohio state she moved down to lousiana in hopes to be with him more but her career kind of kept going & so she was nearly in louisiana just as often as she had been before moving down there. they made it work for a good amount of time , but the distance just started to become a little too much . donna is someone who craves affection after a childhood of not much affection to be sparred . she caught herself at times during the relationship on the verge of cheating , but she is a staunch believer that if you truly love someone you could never do something of that magnitude to them . it was a mutual break up , that came in the early months of 2019 . 

she’s now been living in calabasas since she moved out of louisiana & is learning to get back onto her feet without someone there to uplift her  . 

╰   scandal  .  ◞,

on december 23rd of 2019 a sex tape with donna’s name plastered all over it had been released online . it was a sex tape of her & her ex who by this time has cemented himself as the likely first round pick in the nfl draft . the sex tape took off & it seemed as though every time her team managed to get it down , it popped up somewhere else . both donna & her ex knew neither one was to blame for the leaking of the sex tape & so they worked together to figure out who was behind it , today their getting closer & closer to finding the person who did it . despite this , the tape is still able to be viewed on the internet it you dig hard enough . although not many have to do that as it had gone vial upon it’s initial release back in december . 

[theprinceandagcd]

closed our eyes and took on the world together

I don’t know why-- I just wanted to add one more story to the I’ll always wear the crown that you gave me universe - a lil wedding day fluff was just what it needed

also on ao3

------

we were crazy, tragic and epic, and so amazing I’ll always wear the crown that you gave me we will always stay lost in forever and they’ll remember we were legends

------

“You know what would be funny?”

Clarke smiles, knowing her best friend too well. Still, she plays along. “What?”

“If you married my brother,” Octavia says, trying to shrug it off with a grin, but Clarke can see the joy on her face. She thinks Octavia is almost as happy as she is, and she’s the one getting married today.

Even so, Clarke laughs, standing to wrap her arms around her maid of honor. She holds her close, fighting back the tightness in her throat. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for today. I don’t know what I would have done without you.”

Octavia’s slim arms wrap around Clarke’s shoulders. “Of course. I honestly can’t even tell you how happy I am that you two finally figured this out. I’ve only been waiting for it my whole life.”

“I know it took us a while,” Clarke murmurs, letting Octavia go. “But we’re here now.”

Octavia smiles. “I know. And you look perfect, all that’s left is the dress and accessories. Bell is going to lose his mind when he sees you.”

“Mind if I intrude?”

Abby pokes her head in the door, looking almost somber. It’s been unsettled at best between Clarke and her mother for the last few years. Clarke is currently working as a free-lance artist and doing other side jobs for the city, murals and the like, while Abby is still hung up on the fact that she could have been a doctor by now.

(If only she hadn’t “thrown it all away”.)

“It’s not intruding. You’re my mom.” Clarke does her best to smile, finding it easier than she expected. Even despite everything, she’s happy her mom is here.

She thinks so, anyway.

Octavia excuses herself for a moment, maybe to go check on her brother. She’s been so busy, between being the maid of honor and sister of the groom. Clarke isn’t even sure how she’s managed it all.

It’s probably why Clarke misses her presence—she could have been a good buffer between Clarke and her mother.

Abby smiles, though, eyes glistening. “You look beautiful.”

“Thank you.” Clarke glances at herself in the mirror, smiling a little to herself.

There’s a pause, and Clarke thinks she recognizes the heaviness of it. Please, don’t, she begs mentally, willing her mom not to ruin her wedding day.

“I still don’t agree with the choices you’ve made for yourself,” Abby says, looking at Clarke’s dress on the mannequin. She reaches out to run a finger gently down the fabric, almost absentmindedly. “But of the ones you’ve made, I think I like Bellamy the best.”

Clarke swallows, willing herself not to get stressed over a conversation she’s had a million times. She decides to respond to what’s the easiest. “I think he’s my best decision, too, mom. So, thanks, I guess.”

Abby doesn’t stay much longer, any words they share only taking up a limited amount of time. There is only so much they can say before Abby’s disappointment shines through. When she’s gone, Clarke still feels tears prick at her vision as she slumps in her chair. She wishes things were different, that she still had a mom who cared.

To be fair, though, she isn’t sure she ever did.

It’s times like this where she misses Aurora, misses simple summers with sunburned cheeks and her two best friends. She wonders if Aurora would have helped her get ready today, standing beside Octavia while they fussed over her hair and makeup.

She definitely would have—Clarke wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Her dad is here somewhere, she reminds herself. Seeing him later might make her feel better.

“Hey, so I thought, after talking to your mom, you might need a little… well, more than me.”

Clarke looks up at her best friend’s voice, but Octavia has slipped through the door once again, leaving just Bellamy.

Bellamy.

He’s got on a still half unbuttoned dress shirt and his dress pants, like he was yanked out of his own changing room in the middle of doing his buttons. Even not finished, he looks like he walked right out of a fairytale to her.

“You’re not supposed to see me before the wedding,” she reprimands, though she’s already standing to wrap herself in him arms. Her body immediately relaxes, feeling like she’s home.

“Hmm,” he hums into her temple, arms tight around her. “Well, Octavia says you’re not completely ready yet, so.”

She pulls away just enough to look up at him, her heart beating steadier already. “I guess that could be a loophole. At least I’m not wearing the dress yet.”

“See? We’ll be fine,” he tells her, reaching up to brush his knuckles against her cheek. “Are you okay? What did your mom say?”

“That, according to her, you’re the best decision I’ve ever made.” She considers him, squeezing gently at his hips. “Her scale is different than mine, but that’s still something we can agree on, I guess.”

Bellamy smiles, wide and exuberant. God, she loves him. “I love you so much,” he says, echoing her thoughts.

“I love you, too,” she reciprocates, leaning up to press her lips against his briefly. “And I’m okay. Thanks for coming to check on me.”

“Always, princess.” He taps his thumb against her jaw. “It’s you and me against the world from now on, anyway.”

“I think it already was,” she tells him, watching with fascination as he blushes just a little. His head ducks for just a moment, like even after all this time, her affection still shakes him.

“Octavia will be very disappointed to hear that,” is what he winds up saying when he meets her eyes again.

“Please, she’s simply beside herself today. This wedding is just as much for her as it is us.”

Bellamy grins, leaning down to kiss her again. “Just think, next time I kiss you, we’ll be officially married.”

Her answering smile hurts her cheeks. “Can’t wait.”

Everything goes beautifully, somehow. Bellamy tears up when she walks down the aisle, wiping a hand over his mouth. The weather is gorgeous, and their first kiss as husband and wife feels magical. Even so, it’s over so quickly that she’s eternally grateful for the photography crew that they hired. She doesn’t have to worry about capturing anything, but she knows that she’ll have more than enough captured for her.

Before she knows it, she’s sitting next to Bellamy in the reception hall, and everyone is finishing up their food. Glasses of wine are everywhere, and music is playing throughout the room. Octavia is sitting next to her, though she’s talking to Raven on her other side.

Bellamy reaches over for her hand, picking it up and rubbing his thumb against her wrist.

“You wore your bracelet,” he says, and when she looks up at him, his eyes are full of so much love that for a moment, she forgets how to breathe.

“Always do.”

He smiles, his thumb brushing against the cool metal. “I should get you like, a wedding cake charm to go with it,” he muses, leaning over to press his lips into her temple. “Since, you know, you’re my wife now.”

“I’m your wife now,” she repeats, smiling up at him.

A camera flashes somewhere, and she’s sure that the photo they just took will wind up on the walls of their home somewhere. Still, she doesn’t pay it much attention as she leans in to kiss Bellamy sweetly, feeling the fire race in her veins all the way down to her toes.

“Dance with me,” he murmurs when they pull away, standing without letting go of her hand.  

She lets him lead her out on the dance floor, letting go of his hand to thread her fingers together behind his neck as he wraps his own around her waist.

They sway together in silence for a moment, and then he chuckles.

Clarke grins up at him. “What?”

“I’m just thinking, of all the people for my sister to impress on her first day at a new school, I’m really glad it was you.”

“It was incredible!” Clarke defends through her giggle. “She literally pinched a boy’s ear until she bent to his will and didn’t even get in trouble!”

She’s probably a little too loud, but Bellamy laughs, burying the sound into her hair. “And now, here we are.”

“Here we are,” she agrees, pulling herself a little closer. “All married and grown up.”

He glances over her shoulder, where Octavia is dancing with Lincoln, and smiles. “They’ll be next, I figure.”

Clarke gasps. “And you’re okay with that idea?”

Bellamy pinches at her waist, just enough to make her squirm. “Ha ha, princess. She’s happy, that’s what matters.”

“I’m so proud of your progress.”

“You should be.”

“I am,” she insists, leaning up to press her lips to the corner of his mouth. He catches her lips in his before she can pull away, soft and sweet.

Octavia bounds up at that moment, of course. “Guys, come here, we should get a picture with just the three of us.”

She gestures to the camera man off to the side, so they line up, Clarke in the middle, smiles wide as the camera flashes.

Clarke is pretty sure there’s a picture exactly like it in the Blake house already, except it was taken years ago by Aurora, the summer before she passed away. She makes a mental note to get a print out of the picture just taken, and can already imagine the two photos hanging together in the foyer of the house that she and Bellamy have waiting for them.

She thinks maybe they could even be put in the same frame, surrounded by other pictures of the three of them. It seems fitting, like the first thing someone sees when they come into their home should certainly be pictures of her best friend, and her best friend’s brother.

Because ever since there’s been Octavia, there’s been Bellamy, too.

And she wouldn’t have it any other way.

[thdorkmagnet]

A Perilous Journey (Star is Anna AU Part 2)

Summary: A series of one-shots and multi-chapters proving why Star Butterfly should be considered a Disney Princess, as Star and company take over the roles of all your favorite Disney Princess characters! (Starco inevitable)

Check out my other stuff on Fanfiction!

Disclaimer: Star vs and all its characters are owned by Daron Nefcy and Disney. Frozen belongs to Disney. All rights go to their respective owners.

Part 1

Meteora let out a slow sigh, her breath fogged in the cold mountain air, but she didn't shiver despite the low temperature, the cold had never bothered her anyways. As she climbed higher and higher up the mountaintop, a trail of footprints left in the crystal white slow, she couldn't shake the feeling that she had just entered into a hidden world previously untouched by man, a kingdom of lone isolation and solitude. Guess that makes me the queen, Meteora thought bitterly to herself.

But this was honestly the least of her worries, much more depressing and guilty thoughts hovering around in her head, refusing to let her relax or feel at peace. Not that she had ever felt peace in a long time.

She ran her hands up and down her arms, but not of desperate need to stay warm, but out of guilt as every horrible decision she had made came crashing down on her at once. How could she have been so stupid? How, after all these years, had she allowed her powers to be shown? She had been so careful to hide them, locking herself away and letting no one in, even her own sister... and yet the moment she had left the safety of her boring, suffocating room look what had happened. Every fear she had ever had came true, she had let her emotions get the better of her and it had ruined everything. Just like it had all those years ago.

The air around her seemed to only grow colder as her mind flashed back to that day...

…

For about as long as Meteora could remember she had been alone.

Okay well that was a bit of an exaggeration, since for several years of her young life she had had Star. During that time, her younger sister and her were practically inseparable, spending almost every second together playing and having a great time. Meteora had so, so many great memories of their time together and part of her so wished that she could have her bouncy, energetic sister back.

It was around this time Meteora discovered her ice powers and if Star had been enthusiastic before, now she was completely spellbound by her sister. Meteora could recall the look of pure joy shimmering in her sister's innocent eyes whenever she would freeze some object or make it rain down snow from the ceiling. And the pride Meteora would feel every time Star squealed in delight over something she did was immeasurable.

But all that changed one fateful night.

It started pretty much the same as any night with Star wanting to play. Meteora was in a peaceful, soothing dream  when a soft whisper cut through the quiet of the night. “Meteora? Meteora, wake up?”

Meteora smiled but didn't show any other indication of being awake. She felt a small form crawl up onto the bed, before poking her cheek, “Wake up, Meteora I want to play.”

Meteora peeked open an eye, saying softly to her, “Star it's the middle of the night, go to sleep.”

Star's cheeks puffed up in the cutest way as she argued in a small whine, “But the skies awake...” She pointed over to their window where the aurora borealis was shining in the distance. “And I'm awake, so we have to play!”

“Star, go back to bed,” Meteora scolded, picking up her pillow and hitting her little sister with it, causing the blond to fall off the bed and land on her butt. Meteora laid back down but before she could even get comfortable, Star was back now sitting on top of her, giggling incessantly. Meteora felt a small hand trying to pry her eyes open and she held back another smile. Soon the girl found herself staring into Star's eager blue as her younger sister whispered, “Do you wanna build a snowman?”

Meteora finally let her smile slip, she couldn't argue with that. It was Star's code for asking her to use her powers and Meteora never said no to an opportunity to impress her little sis.

The two ran downstairs to the empty ballroom, giggling and whispering under their breath the whole way, being careful not to wake their parents or any of the staff. But the thrill of possibly getting caught had both of them giddy. Once they were in the massive room, Star began impatiently saying, “Do the magic! Do the magic!” shaking her sister's arm and hopping up and down on the balls of her feet.

“Okay, check this out,” Meteora said, forming a small snowball in her hand. Star leaned closer and watched entranced as her big sis blew onto the cold sphere, making it shine with bright blue magic. Meteora then threw the magic-infused snowball into the air, where it burst just before hitting the ceiling. A gentle snowfall soon began, tiny shimmering snowflakes sprinkling down from above. Star squealed in delight and ran around the room excitedly, sticking her tongue out to try and catch the falling snow. All the while Meteora just looked on with pride.

The two had a blast playing in the magic-made snow, ice skating across the ballroom floors, having a snowball fight which Star easily won (sure Meteora was magic but she couldn't beat the arm on that girl!) and, of course, building a snowman together... as well as an entire army of snow creatures since Star insisted the snowman not be alone.

Finally, Meteora began making piles of snow for Star to jump onto, the little blond hopping from one pile to the next, each one slightly higher than the last, the girl determined to reach the ceiling. But her impatient speed was proving to be more than Meteora could handle, calling up to her sister to slow down but Star was too caught up in her own world to listen, simply shouting to her sister to make it higher with each new jump.

Suddenly, Meteora's foot slipped and she lost her balance, falling hard to the floor. The girl groaned and looked up in panic, just in time to see her sister leap off the tall snow pile with a cheer, oblivious to the danger that awaited her, just blindly trusting her sister would catch her. Meteora felt a cold fear rush through her veins as she helplessly reached out for her sister, screaming at the top of her lungs, “STAR!”

But what Meteora didn't realize was that in her moment of desperation her powers had activated as she sent a wave of blue magic hurtling toward her air-born sister. The wave hit Star directly in the head and the girl's eyes instantly closed, her body going limp. Star's unconscious body hit a snowpile a second later, rolling down the cold hill before sliding to a stop on the ice. Meteora's vision grew blurry as she stared at her sister's fallen body, looking tinier and weaker than the girl thought she had ever seen, and she gasped out, “No, Star!”

The older girl was at her sister's side in a second, holding her frail and cold body in her arms tears dripping down her face as she sobbed pitifully. “Star, wake up! Please wake up!” she screamed, shaking Star's body uselessly. Star's skin was bitterly cold to the touch, way too cold to be good for her, and Meteora watched in horror as a single stand of Star's golden hair turned bright white.

“Momma! Daddy!” Meteora screamed, clutching her sister close, rocking back and forth in a comforting motion. Not that it helped any.

A few seconds passed before the doors to the ballroom busted open, a startled Moon and River staring at the scene in shock, their mouths simultaneously dropping open. “Meteora, what happened?” Moon exclaimed worriedly, rushing over to her two daughters. Meteora didn't protest as her mom pulled Star from her grip.

“We were just playing, it was an accident, I swear,” the older girl chocked out, wiping tears from her eyes with the back of her hand.

Moon didn't reply though, putting a hand to her daughter's forehead before gasping. She turned to her husband, saying in a fearful tone, “She's ice cold.”

River followed his wife's example, feeling his youngest daughter's forehead himself, his face now etched with concern. “What do we do, my love?”

Moon let out a shaky breath, trying to calm her racing heart and mind, before saying in a far-off tone, “I think I may know of a way.”

The family quickly departed from the castle, a sleigh carrying them swiftly out of the town and into the unknown woods. Meteora was on pins and needles the whole dreaded ride, sitting with her legs tucking up to her chest and casting worried glances at her little sister who was wrapped in a warm blanket in her mother's arms. Anxious thoughts floated through Meteora's head, praying that they made it to wherever they were going in time to save her sister, her negative thoughts leaving a trail of frost behind the sleigh.

It felt like years had passed when they finally made it to their destination, an empty glade. Meteora was beyond confused why her parents had brought them there of all places, which only grew as she watched her mother pleading to the empty night for help, explaining that their daughter was sick with magic. A few seconds passed before Meteora saw a flash of something in the shadows and jumped. Soon forms began emerging from the woods, tall, bizarre creatures that caused Meteora to gasp in surprise. “Monsters,” she muttered, looking around at the creatures in awe.

The Monsters all looked equally as confused as Meteora felt, gazing at the intruders to their home nervously, sharing hesitant glances with one another and keeping their distance. Finally a frog Monster stepped forward from the crowd, eying the queen and king up and down, his eyes pausing on Star and a sympathetic look crossed his face, his muscular form relaxing some as he realized they meant no harm. For a second Meteora thought she saw a small human boy peek his head around one of the frog's massive legs, but when she blinked he was gone and the girl just decided her eyes were playing tricks on her.

“Why have you come here?” the frog asked, his voice thick with an accent.

“My daughter is sick with magic, we need to speak to the witch of these woods,” Moon explained, holding Star a little closer to her chest.  Meteora could hear whispering from the Monsters around her at that, but they kept whatever comments they had to themselves.

Buff Frog eyed Star one more time before nodding. He yelled over his shoulder, “Eclipsa! You have visitors!”

A few seconds passed, before the crowd of Monsters parted, letting the witch (Eclipsa, apparently) through and Meteora leaned forward to see her better. The woman had teal hair pulled back into a bun and wore an elegant purple dress, complete with hat and matching gloves, there was a peaceful nature to her, she seemed kind and compassionate if not a little mysterious and Meteora almost felt an instant connection to her. She was a witch, did she have powers like hers? Meteora was shocked to see two little girls on either side of the witch, both no older than Star, one with white hair, the other with dark hair.

When Eclipsa reached them, she smiled at them pleasantly before saying in a cheerful tone, “Well, this is quite the surprise! I'm quite used to people showing up at all hours of the night for my assistance, but I didn't expect the king and queen themselves to visit my humble home!” Eclipsa dropped into a polite curtsy, before her eyes landed on the small child held tightly in her mother's arms. She gasped, moving closer and cupping Star's cheek in her hand, saying in a sorrowful tone, “Oh, you poor child.”

Moon and River looked uncomfortable at the idea of this witch touching their child but said nothing, instead the king just said, “Yes, that's why we brought her here.”

“I'm so glad you did.” Eclipsa said before clicking her tongue. She looked up at the older royals before asking, “What happened to her?”

Moon and River didn't reply at first, going silent and sharing a look, not sure how to answer that without upsetting their other daughter. Meteora shifted uncomfortably on her feet as guilt tugged at her heartstrings. She looked down at her shaking hands before blurting, “It was me. I used my magic on here... by accident.”

Eclipsa looked down at Meteora with sympathy in her eyes and where the girl feared she would be reprimanded or blamed for her actions, the witch did no such thing, instead only stating, “Well these things do happen, I'm sure you meant her no harm.” And then to Meteora's greater surprise she even smiled at her, tight and constricted but still a smile nonetheless. But Eclipsa immediately turned her attention back to Star saying in a calm but masterful tone, “But now first things first, let's fix up this little darling.” She sounded so in control, like she had done this a million times before and Meteora could only watch dumbfounded as with a single wave of her hand, she freed her sister from Meteora's magic, a small glowing orb now floating in the air above Star's head. She watched even more astonished as Eclipsa went to work cycling through Star's memories, watching as precious moments they had shared were changed, every time Meteora had ever used her magic to impress or play with Star was changed to something more mediocre and finally the girl realized what Eclipsa was doing. She was erasing Star's memory of her magic.  

Once the witch was done she gently held the orb over Star's head before it vanished back inside her sister's mind, Eclipsa putting a hand on the girl's forehead and brushing loose strands of hair out of her eyes. “There now, she should be fully recovered by morning.”

“We can't thank you enough, Eclipsa,” Moon said as her husband pulled Star from her arms hugging her close to his chest in relief. “I don't know what we would have done without you.”

“Oh I didn't do all that much,” Eclipsa replied modestly, waving a hand in the air. “I simply help out where I can. Just be thankful it was her head and not her heart, otherwise healing her would have been much... trickier.”

Meteora looked guilty down at her feet, waves of shame and regret washing over her, her heart aching painfully in her chest. Maybe she had accidentally used magic on herself, maybe that was why she felt so sick. She felt tears form at the corners of her eyes and she blinked them away quickly. Eclipsa must have noticed this, because her face softened as she bent down to Meteora's level putting a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Listen to me, Meteora, your power makes you special, never forget that,” Eclipsa said gently, her kind eyes looking deep into Meteora's wide magenta orbs. “Your gift can be a great blessing but it can also be a burden. You must learn to control your powers or fear will be your enemy. Do you understand?”

Meteora nodded, swallowing thickly. “Yes.”

“Good,” Eclipsa replied, giving her one more smile before standing up to full height. She returned her focus to Moon and River as she told them, “When your daughter awakes, she will have no memory of Meteora's magic. I've done all I can for now, what happens next is up to you. Now if you'll please excuse me.” With that Eclipsa bowed before turning and disappearing into the crowd of Monsters, the two little girls following quickly after her.

Meteora saw out of the corner of her eye the nervous look passed between her parents before they began to nervously mutter amongst each other. Meteora just stood their numbly, trying to fight back the overwhelming guilt still bubbling in her chest. “Mom, dad, am I... gonna hurt anyone again?” she finally asked, her voice trembling and her lip quivering against her will.

She saw her parents faces flash with fear before they hid it behind a determined mask. “Of course not, my dear,” River said quickly.

“We aren't going to let that happen,” Moon added, her features sharpening as her protective instincts took over. “We'll just have to be more careful from now on. Keep the gates locked, lower the staff number, minimum contact with anyone... even Star.” At this point her mother was mumbling to herself as if thinking over the necessary steps to keep her daughter safe.

Meteora's gaze slowly drifted down to her shaking hands, feeling bile in the back of her throat. These hands, her hands, had hurt Star, her own loving little sister. And  accident or not it was still her fault Star had gotten hurt. And so at that moment Meteora swore to herself she would never let anything like that happen to her sister again. No matter what that meant.

No matter what she had to do.

…

More memories passed through Meteora's head from there, years of loneliness and anxiety as she locked herself away in her room, fighting back her powers, struggling to keep control. She tried to push all her emotions down, to not feel anything, concealing her abilities from the world. She started wearing gloves (the thicker the better) after she realized she would freeze anything she touched. And no matter how hard she tried she couldn't control her powers, with every day that passed they only seemed to get stronger.

The only contact she had from anyone during that time was her parents, who she made sure to keep at a distance, just in case. She never hugged them and if they tried to touch her she'd flinch away from them. Most of the time she would stand on the opposite side of her room and try her best to think warm thoughts, fearful of injuring her mom and dad like she had Star.

As for Star, herself, she was a whole different story.

Even though Meteora was burdened by her guilt, she relished the moments when her sister would knock on her door asking her to come and play, thinking of crazier and crazier ideas each time or asking why she was staying in her room so much. And even though Meteora would decline every invitation it made her heart feel a little lighter to hear her sister's voice. Sometimes she would even press herself up against the firm wood just so she could hear her sister better, the longing threatening to tear her heart in half. For a long time, Star stayed persistent and even though part of Meteora wished she'd give up, the other part of her wanted nothing more than to see her little sis again. But she resisted this urge, because she was doing this for Star. Because Star wasn't safe around her.

Finally, Star started knocking less and less, her pleas became more desperate and sad. Until eventually, they quit altogether. Her door went silent. She had given up on Meteora and honestly she didn't blame her sister one bit for it. She would have given up on her to. But it didn't make it hurt any less.

She remembered the day her parents told her they were going away on a trip for a few days and she had begged them to stay, fearful of being alone, of losing control without her parents there to help calm her down. She remembered her mom and dad reassuring her that everything would be okay before leaving her room for the very last time. She remembered the stabbing pain and sorrow when she was told that their ship had sunken in a storm, that there were no survivors. She remembered her room becoming coated in ice and snow as she wept in misery. But most of all she remembered the dull sound of knocking just on the other side of her door, no life or energy in the action. She listened as Star pleaded with her to come out of her room, her sorrowful tone the only comfort Meteora had left in this world. And what hurt most of all was that all Meteora could do was lean against the door and cry, as Star's own painful sobs attacked her ears.

The next few years were some of the loneliest Meteora had ever experienced, without her parents there any longer and Star no longer even attempting to reach out to her she had nothing and no one to depend on. She was completely alone now, fighting back her emotions and her fears and everything else all on her own. Until finally, she was old enough to become queen. She had stressed and worried for days about the ceremony, knowing she would have to take off her gloves in order to be anointed queen. But somehow she had pulled it off, able to keep her powers under control long enough to hold both scepter and orb as the priest finished his speech, although she seriously wished he would speak just a little bit faster! She had practically thrown the objects back down and ripped the gloves back on, feeling safe once more.

And she had even gotten to see Star again for the first time in years, she got to stand next to her and talk to her and that was probably the happiest she had ever been in a long time. Until she went and screwed it up, upsetting Star and forcing her away again, the guilt eating away at Meteora's heart once again. She told herself she was doing this for her sister, that locking her away inside the castle was what was best for her. And then Star had suddenly appeared with Tom and claimed they were getting married and Meteora had lost it. Anger and frustration had overpowered her common sense as she and Star fought, her sister antagonizing her more and more until finally she had snapped... and lost control.

And in that moment, all Meteora could do was stare into the fearful crowd of onlookers in pure horror. Look into their frightened and stunned faces at what she had just done. And then her eyes locked with Star, she could see the confusion and doubt and worry written all over her face. Star sucked in a deep breath, a look of fear flashing through her eyes and Meteora felt sick. Tears flowed down her face as she reluctantly chocked out, “I'm sorry,” before she did the only thing she could think of. She ran. She did her best to ignore the world around her as she ran as far and as fast from the castle as she could, she ignored the wind whipping against her face, the tears streaking down her cheeks, the screams and cries of her people as she froze everything around her and the dull pang in her chest as a result. She ignored the frigid temperature as her powers again worked against her once more and she ignored the desperate voice of Star at her back. She just pushed that all out and ran. She froze the lake in her wake and ran into the nearest treeline and she didn't stop running until her home was a spec in the distance.

…

Meteora shivered as the memory faded from her mind, the dull ache in her chest almost suffocating. She had tried so hard to not lose control, to keep her powers under wraps, but she had failed and now everybody knew. It was all over.

That thought made Meteora pause, stopping in her tracks as she pondered that for a moment. Was it really over? After all the years of stressing and worrying and fearing the worst case scenario it had finally happened and now she had nothing more to fear. Star was safe so long as she was away and no one would find her up here in the mountains. She was free. Finally, truly free. From the guilt, from the worry, from everything. And for the first time in years, Meteora smiled as a long forgotten joy and peace fell over her and she let out a relaxed sigh, letting all the stress and anxiety that had built up in her go.

She quickly ripped off her only remaining glove, her cape, and her crown, letting them float away in the wind or fall to the ground forgotten as she began casting blasts of ice magic through the air, no longer caring about being seen, not having to hide this side of herself from everyone. Cause now there was no one around for her to hurt.

She let loose all her powers, seeing just what her magic could truly do. And as she cast spell after spell she began to laugh, hard and long, her bubbly tone echoing around the snow-capped hills. She stopped for a moment though, biting her lip as a new idea for a spell popped into her head, her mind just briefly flashing back to that night with Star, and before she knew what she was doing she was creating a snowman, waving a finger around in the air as a snowman magically formed in front of her. But she didn't stop there, creating snow creature after snow creature, the whole area around her soon covered in them and she laughed at the top of her lungs. She ran up the mountain, shouting in pure joy, feeling more free than she had in her life, until she reached the edge of a cliff. But even that wasn't going to stop Meteora. She was on a roll and nothing was going to stop her anymore.

So she simply threw her hands out in a burst of magic before the beginning part of a bridge appeared before her and as she stepped on it, the snow turned to ice and she didn't hesitate as she ran across the bridge, forming it as she went until she reached the next snow bank. She felt a rush of exhilaration, wanting to do something bigger and grander than ever when a new idea popped into her head. She smiled mischievously as a new idea came into her mind. She rubbed her hands together and muttered under her breath, “Oh this is gonna be good.”

And then she got right to work creating her greatest masterpiece yet, finally after all these years feeling like herself again.

…

Star and Marco rode in silence for a while. Close to an hour had passed without either saying a word, Star staring at the lights in the sky or casting occasional glances at the mountaintop, Marco just focusing on driving the sleigh. To Star it felt like they would never make it, every time she looked the mountain still seemed as impossibly far off as before and with every glance her spirits fell more and more, until she was practically sulking. She stayed tightly wrapped in the blanket but it still felt like all the warmth was leaving her body, her heart aching with loss and guilt for causing such a mess. Marco, however, was distracted by the single fact that he had a pretty girl sitting in the sleigh with him. He kept looking over at her, trying to ignore the way she was snuggled up against his side or the fact that his cheeks were hot enough to probably melt ice and instead tried to keep his focus on the path ahead. But it was a losing battle, Star's enchanting form easily more interesting than the snowy hills Nachos was crossing at a breakneck speed. Marco tried to think of something to say to the blond, hoping to strike up some kind of conversation to end the long stretch of silence but no words came to mind. Everything he thought to say only sounded stupid in his overly critical head and when he did try and work up the nerve to speak, he chickened out at the last second. Finally, though it was Star who broke the unending silence saying, "So have you ever been up the North mountain before?" Marco panicked, his tight throat refusing to work properly as he just stared blankly at the girl. Star turned to him in surprise, an eyebrow slowly raising and Marco shouted in his head, she asked you a question, quick say something, anything! "Uhhh y-yeah, so we shouldn't have too much trouble finding your sister," the boy stammered out nervously. "That's good," Star said in clear relief, looking much more like herself again, and Marco felt his body relax down some as he blurted out, "So why'd your sister run away anyways?" Star's smile quickly turned to a frown and Marco wanted to slap himself for upsetting her. You idiot, why'd you bring that up?! He yelled inside his head. "Y-You don't have to answer, I was just curious," the boy quickly added, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly with his free hand. "No, it's okay," Star told him, though her voice was strained and tight as if she was holding back her emotions. The girl sucked in a breath, clearly trying to figure out the right way to put it. "You said something about you two getting into a fight," Marco helpfully supplied, trying to keep his curiosity to a minimum, even though he was burning with unanswered questions. The girl huffed angrily, before saying bitterly, "Yeah I got all mad because she said I couldn't marry Tom and then I pulled off her glove and the next thing I know shes shooting ice across the room!" The girl threw her hands in the air in exasperation. Clearly the girl was harboring some resentment toward her sister. "I mean I know I shouldn't have made her mad, but she was being impossible! She never thinks about what I want! I just wanted her to understand that!!" "Who's Tom?" Marco asked, unable to keep the slightest hint of disappointment out of his voice, though he wasn't sure why. "Hmm, oh he's a guy I met at the ceremony, we hung out for a while and then he asked to marry him and I said yes," the girl said absentmindedly, her thoughts on more pressing matters. "But then Meteora wouldn't give us her blessing because she said I couldn't marry a guy I just met and then I-" "Wait, you were gonna marry him after only knowing him a day?" Marco said in shock, unable to hide his disbelief. "Uhh, yeah, what's the big deal?" Star replied, raising an eyebrow at her companion. "Well I mean, no offense but don't you think maybe you're rushing things a bit," Marco said, trying to be careful of his wording so he wouldn't upset the blond royal. Star scoffed, crossing her arms in front of her chest before saying firmly, "No. I mean, I spent a whole day with him. I think I know if he's right for me or not." "But how much could really learn about him in a day?" Marco argued. "I know lots of stuff about him,” the blond replied confidently, before ticking each thing off on her fingers as she listed off the many facts about her fiance, “Like he's from the Southern Isles, he has 13 older brothers, his favorite animal is a bunny-” "Look, I know it's not my place but I just don't want to see you putting yourself in a bad situation," Marco told, rubbing the back of his neck. "You're a really nice girl, Star, and some guys take advantage of that." "Tom isn't like that," Star argued. "He's a really good guy." "Even if he is, don't you think maybe you should take a little more time to get to know the guy?” Marco suggested.

Star fumbled for an answer, stuttering as she said, “Wh-What, n-no way?! Tom is the first good thing that has happened to me in a long time and I'm not giving that up.”

Marco looked long and hard at Star for a minute, seeing the bitter loneliness in her eyes, before he asked hesitantly, “Are you sure this is really about Tom?”

Star froze, feeling her heart begin to hammer away in her chest and her mind come to a screeching halt. Her mouth opened but no words came out, as the boy's question rang around in her head for a while. But finally she got a hold of herself,  shaking her head free of her stupor as she replied in a firm, annoyed tone, “L-Look none of that stuff matter, it's true love and that's all I need to know!”

“Okay, okay, I'm sorry,” the boy quickly said as it became obvious he had overstepped his bound. The two sat in silence for a minute, facing forward, unable to meet each other's eye, until finally Marco risked a glance over and saw the girl's face set in a sad frown. He sighed at the mess he had made, before adding in a quiet tone, “I'm not trying to upset you, Star. I just... didn't want you to make the same mistake I did.”

“What?” the blond royal said in surprise, looking over at her companion curiously.

“I thought I was in love with someone once, but it turned out I was just in love with the idea of her and well, we didn't work out. I just don't want to see that happen to you.”

Star was taken aback by the boy's words, the pain in his tone clear as day. It was obviously a painful memory for him. One he had shared willingly with her, when he didn't really have to. And suddenly, she felt a smile rise on her face, her cheeks warming against her will. Marco really was a nice guy. Sure Tom was the guy of her dreams, but there was something just so warm and inviting about the boy in red beside her that she couldn't help but want to be around him, his friendship somehow meaning more to her in that moment than anything else.

So she scooted closer, wrapping her arms around him in a warm hug. She felt him tense in her grip, before slowly relaxing and she laid her head on his shoulder, telling him, “I'm sorry that happened to you, Marco.”

“It's okay, it was a long time ago,” the boy said vaguely, his voice tight as if he was having trouble getting the words out and for some reason he would not tear his eyes away from the path before them. And if that wasn't strange, Star would swear his face was turning red but it might have been a trick of the lantern light.

Star finally removed her arms from the boy's frame, giving him an apologetic grin as she added, “And sorry for being such a pill a minute ago. I guess I'm just a little defensive.”

Marco shook his head. “No, it was my fault for upsetting you,” the boy replied with a warm smile that made Star's insides do flips, although she had no idea why. “Friends?” he offered.

“Friends,” Star agreed with a nod. And just like that the tense atmosphere in the sleigh vanished, leaving behind the same comfortable feeling as before, only this time that feeling felt even stronger, more energized, as if the air itself was filled with sparks of electricity, though Star couldn't quite explain it. And taking advantage of the friendly atmosphere, she cheerfully asked, “So how long till we reach the North Mountain?”

“We should be there by morning,” Marco responded, equally as enthusiastic. “So long as nothing goes wrong before then. These woods can be kinda dangerous.”

Star scoffed, waving a hand as if it was nothing, “Oh don't worry, Marco. I'm sure everything will work out fine.”

As if the universe itself was intent on proving the girl wrong a wolf suddenly appeared out of nowhere, taking advantage of their momentary distraction as it lunged at them, latching onto Marco's arm and pulling him off the sleigh. The boy let out a high-pitched scream as he clattered to the snow, the fast-moving sleigh pulling ahead of him in a second. Star, thinking quickly, grabbed a rope and threw it over to him shouting, “Marco, catch!”

The boy quickly grabbed on just as a pack of at least five wolves began to surround him. He felt the rope go taunt before he was dragged through the snow behind the sleigh. But the wolves were not going to lose their meal that easily, barking and growling as they chased after the teen, biting at him with their sharp teeth while he screamed and dodged them to the best of his ability, moving his legs out of the way as they tried to take bites out of them. “Star, help!” the boy screamed in panic, knowing he could only avoid the wolves' massive fangs for so long.

Star desperately looked around for some kind of idea to help her friend, quickly examining each item in the sleigh when her eyes fell on a large wool blanket. Her gaze then jumped to the lantern hanging on the side of the sleigh, providing a small beacon of light against the unrelenting darkness of the night. “Hang on, Marco! I got an idea!” she yelled over to him, before picking up the blanket and opening the small clasp on the lantern.

“Make it quick!” the boy yelled in reply, still avoiding the sharp fangs lunging at him, the wolves convinced they had their meal on the ropes... literally. It was only a matter of time before they had a tasty human to devour. The wolves all licked their lips at that thought, howling in unison as they all descended on the boy at once, knowing he couldn't dodge them all.

At that exact moment, Star held the now flaming blanket high above her head and screamed at the top of her lungs, “Hey wolves! Leave my friend alone!” Nobody had time to react as the blond threw the blazing blanket toward the unsuspecting wolves as hard as she could, shouting out in late warning, “Marco, duck!”

The boy screamed in fear as he saw a blazing projectile heading right for him and ducked just in time to avoid being burned, the blanket sailing over his head and onto the unfortunate group of wolves, the impact sending all of them tumbling in the snow. The wolves were all left dizzy and disoriented as they stared at the retreating sleigh and their lost meal glumly. Finally after a minute of sulking, their leader reluctantly barked, 'Well, we'll get em next time, guys.'

'Wanna go howl at the moon until we feel better,' another wolf suggested.

The pack all barked their agreements before heading off to their favorite cliff for howling, not one of them realizing their tails were all on fire.

Star, meanwhile, was cheering her victory, pumping her hands in the air as she shouted in surprise, “Wow, that actually worked! I'm even better at this than I thought!”

“Star can you please pull me in?” Marco asked between chattering teeth, the snow starting to seep into his thick layer of clothes, leaving him shaky and cold. And the near-death experience was certainly not helping calm his noisy teeth down any.

“Oh right, I'm on it,” Star said while doing a cute little salute. She quickly grabbed the end of the rope and pulled her friend back over to the sleigh, grunting from the effort. Once he was close enough the boy pulled himself into his seat, sighing with relief as he rested his head against its back, the warmth of the lantern soothing to his cold body as he felt some heat return to his frozen limbs.

“Marco, you okay?” Star asked with concern, placing a hand on his shoulder.

The boy shrugged before replying, “Yeah, I'm good. Thanks to you.” He gave her a tired smile, before adding, “That was really quick thinking back there. I would have been a goner without you.”

Star grinned happily at that, her eyes almost glowing at the praise and the cute look had several of Marco's brain cells short circuit. He was so distracted in fact that it took him a second to realize that it was getting much warmer in the sleigh than it was supposed to be. But when the smell of smoke reached his nostrils, he swerved around, only to stare in horror as the entire back of his sleigh was on fire, the lantern Star had used to ignite the blanket laying haphazardly on the flammable wood.

“Oh no, my stuff!” the boy screamed in panic, looking around for something, anything that could save his supplies. He quickly shrugged off his coat and used it to try and put out the flames, beating it against the burning wood in hopes of somehow stopping his livelihood from going up in smoke.

Star could only watch as her companion worked on extinguishing the flames, biting her lip in concern, unsure what to do to help. Suddenly though she heard Nachos make an odd sound, one that almost seemed like some kind of warning and she looked over to see what was going on, only to feel her heart drop. The two had been so distracted with fighting off wolves and fire that neither of them had paid any attention to steering and now the sleigh was currently barreling toward a ravine. “Uh Marco, we have another problem,” the girl said nervously.

“What now?” the boy asked in exasperation as he looked up from his task.

“We're headed toward a cliff!” the girl responded, pointing over to the incoming danger and the boy followed her gaze and gasped in shock. The fire was quickly forgotten as he grabbed the reigns, trying to correct their course but there wasn't enough time.

“Jump Nachos!” Star shouted to the reindeer.

“Wait, we won't make it!” Marco screamed back.

“Yes we will, we can do this!” Star replied, determination in her voice as she leaned forward.

Marco quickly thought through their options in the few short seconds they had before coming to a decision. He sucked in a breath and wrapped an arm around Star's waist, pulling her close to him, causing her to blush. But he didn't notice as he whipped out a knife from his pocket, cutting the rope connecting Nachos to the sleigh before shouting, “Jump Nachos!” He then leaped forward, pulling Star along with him as the three sailed across the ravine, landing roughly on the other side as a flurry of snow was launched into the air.

For a moment or two, the three travelers just lay buried before the two teens sat up coughing and sputtering as they freed themselves from the snow pile, Nachos just grunting and shaking the snow off her thick fur. Star and Marco panted as they slowly crawled over to the edge of the cliff, looking down the ravine to see the damage done to the sleigh. It had luckily landed on a snowy cliffside and other than a few pieces broken off the wood frame from the fall, the sleigh was still mostly intact. Star grinned before telling her friend, “Well, at least the sleigh is alright, sure it'll take a bit of work to get it back up here but at least it's in one piece.”

Out of nowhere, the sleigh burst into flames, destroying it and everything inside it, in a matter of moments nothing left but charcoal and ash. Star shrank as she watched the sleigh burn feeling guilt eating away at her insides, especially as Marco groaned and shouted in despair, “My stuuufff!” He slammed his head against the ground, letting out muffled cries. “That was everything I own,” he sobbed unhappily.

Star bit her lip as she stared down at the destroyed sleigh, before sighing in defeat. She put a hand on the boy's shoulder before saying in a soft whisper, “I'm sorry about your sleigh, Marco. I-I'll have everything replaced when I get back.” She swallowed thickly, not really wanting to say this next part but she didn't really have any choice. She had caused him enough trouble for one day. “And... you don't have to go with me anymore. I can handle the rest on my own.” She stood up slowly, keeping her head bowed, her eyes covered up by her hair as she whispered quietly, “Sorry for all the trouble.”

The girl then slowly started to walk away, heading in the direction she hoped to be north, the trees blocking the view of the North Mountain at the moment. But she hadn't gotten very far when a voice called out to her, “Wait.” She turned to see Marco stand, giving her a determined look. “I can't let you go alone. I'm coming with you.”

Star's eyes widened in surprise, feeling her heart race at the mere idea of having Marco come with her as she said in joy, “Really?” But she quickly got a hold of herself as she added, “Oh Marco, you don't have to do that.”

“Yes I do,” the boy insisted. “A promise is a promise. I said I was gonna take you to your sister and a Diaz never breaks his word.” He put hand over his heart to demonstrate his resolve, causing Star to giggle a little.

But her grin vanished, rubbing a hand up and down her arm as she said regretfully, “But I ruined your stuff and I made a mess of everything.”

“Yeah,” the boy muttered, rubbing a hand on the back of his neck. “That was a... bit of a mess but I'm not mad at you. Not like it was your fault.”

“But that wouldn't have happened if you didn't come with me,” Star said, feeling tears form at the corners of her eyes.

Marco saw this and slowly walked over to her, placing both hands on her shoulders as he gave her a kind smile that sent her heart fluttering. “Hey, it was my choice to come with you, okay. I knew the risks and I still want to help. That is, if you'll let me.”

Star stared into his chocolate brown eyes for a moment, feeling a warmth slowly fill her chest, seeing the true resolve that lied behind them. He really did want to help her. Marco was a good guy and a great friend and she felt very thankful to have met someone like him. She felt Nachos nudge her with her nose, trying to convey her own affection for the princess and Star finally smiled, relief washing over her features. She wiped away the stray tears before saying brightly, “Okay then! I'd be happy to have you as my guide.” She then threw her arms around him in a tight hug, resting her head against his chest. “Thanks Marco,” she whispered gratefully.

Marco tensed in surprise at the hug before smiling down at the girl, wrapping his own arms around her slender frame, holding her close as he felt her warmth meld with his own. He chuckled a little before saying, “Your welcome, Star. What are friends for?”

When the two finally parted, bright grins on their faces and slight blushes on their cheeks, the blond royal asked her companion, “So what's the plan now?”

“Well we'll have to go on foot from here, it'll take a little longer but we should be there within a few days,” Marco told her.

“But what about your stuff, I thought we needed that to get up the mountain?” Star asked with slight concern.

The boy shrugged. “We'll just have to get by without it. Been a while since I really roughed it but we should be fine,” he said with a nonchalant wave of his hand, though his eyes conveyed some slight hesitation and concern.

“Well if anyone can get us there, it's you, Mr. Mountain Expert,” Star said, elbowing him playfully in the chest.

“Well I am an expert on many things,” the boy replied, puffing out his chest goofily before the two shared a long, hard laugh. But then the two heard a howl in the distance and clamped both of their mouths shut, covering them with their hands as they shared a fearful look.

“We should probably get moving before we end up as those wolves chew bones,” Marco commented, his voice now a soft whisper.

“Yeah. Totally, totally, totally,” Star replied in an equally quiet tone, her eyes wide with clear concern. But her cheerful demeanor quickly returned as she gave her companion a wink and said teasingly, “Then lead the way, Mr. Expert.”

The boy chuckled again before starting off in the direction of the mountain, his keen extincts helping him identify north almost instantly. Star followed along behind him, skipping with every step, while Nachos made up the rear watching the two kids with a knowing look. She had been with her master since he was a little kid and she had never seen him that happy in his life and the frequent looks that passed between the two had the reindeer excited. It was clear that the two were becoming close and although she didn't want to jump to any conclusions, she had a feeling she knew where this was going. But she would just have to wait to find out.

...

Morning came quickly enough, much to the three travelers' relief, since their long trek on foot would be much easier without the worry of being eaten alive by wolves or other nighttime predators. The group was now in the middle of some dense forest, which seemed to shine with otherworldly beauty as the freshly fallen snow made the whole place glow in the sunlight. The trees themselves were lined in white and the long vines that hung from them had turned to ice, creating thousands of frozen crystals for the group to walk through. Star and Marco gazed around in wonder, Star feeling like they had just entered into a page from a storybook. And Star briefly wondered if they were even allowed in there, like they were intruding on some hidden world, one no human was permitted into. A sudden sadness came over the girl, as she asked Marco softly, "'Do you think... Meteora had something to do with this?" Marco looked over to Star in surprise but, seeing the look in her eyes, he just gave her a sympathetic smile, opening his mouth to try and comfort her, only for a loud voice to blurt out over him, "Did you just say Meteora?!" The two teens jumped in surprise, immediately turning to try and spot the owner of the voice. "Who's there?" Marco asked, now on high alert, putting an arm up in front of Star to try and guard her from the unknown stranger. Star looked around in confusion trying to remember where she had heard that voice before, something about it oddly... familiar. And how did they know her sister's name? Star frowned, biting her lip, only to freeze as she heard a throat clear next to her. The blond's gaze slowly lowered, till she found herself staring at an odd looking snowman. It looked half finished for some reason, like whomever had made it had given up halfway, lacking either arms or a nose. While at the same time it was intricately detailed, features flawlessly crafted into its frosty form. But the weirdest thing of all was that it almost seemed to be... looking at her. And then, to Star's disbelief, the snowman smiled at her, saying pleasantly, "Hey there." Star screamed in panic, instinctively kicking the snowman's head and sending it flying. Marco, at the same time, turned at the sound of his companion's screams, and saw something white spiraling toward him. Without thinking, he reached out his hands and caught the object, giving Star a confused look. Was now really the time for a snowball fight? That was until he looked down and actually saw what he was holding, the smiling face of a living snowman causing his eyes to grow wide. "Wow that was a real close one, thanks for catching me-" the snowman began, only for Marco to scream, too. The boy in red dropped the head and stumbled back in fright, the snowman making a muffled oof as his face hit the snow. The two teens were still yelling as they watched the snowman's body beginning to stumble around looking for its missing head. "O-Okay no worries, I got it," the snowman head said in a confident tone, before trying to direct his body over to him, the two teens and reindeer watching the whole thing, startled. "U-Uh, over here. No, a little to your left. Yeah, just a little bit closer. That's it." Finally, the body reached its head, before immediately tripping over it and landing flat in the snow. Star and Marco shared disturbed expressions as they watched the poor snowman's body flip around in the snow, struggling to stand without arms. After a moment, Star took pity on the bizarre creature, and hesitantly approached it, Marco raising a hand up as if to weakly try and stop her. The blond didn't seem to notice him though as she just said softly, "Here, let me help." Star pulled the body into a sitting position, before lifting the head and  plopping it onto its snowy shoulders. Marco watched the girl quizzically and nervously the whole time, biting his lip to keep from blurting out a pointless warning. The thing was weird, but far from dangerous. "Oh wow, thanks so much!" The snowman said pleasantly once his head was firmly reattached to his body. "Uh sure, no problem," Star said, trying to hide her awkwardness with a small smile. "Mr. Talking Snowman." "Oh you can call me Doop Doop the Snowman!" The snowy creature replied. Star's eyes widened as a spark of recognition went through her mind, a fuzzy memory tingling the back of her mind. "Wait, Doop Doop?" "U-Uh yeah, that's my name," Doop Doop replied in confusion. "That's right! I remember you!" Star exclaimed, a wide smile on her face at the forgotten memory. "You do?" Marco asked skeptically. "Yeah! Me and Meteora used to name all our snowmen Doop Doop when we were kids!" Star explained. "Oh hey! What a coincidence, that's what Meteora named me!" Doop Doop shouted. Star gasped. "Wait, she did?! That's awesome!" "Your sister can make sentient snowmen?" Marco asked and Star shrugged. "Apparently," the blond replied, sounding equally as surprised. "Buuutt who cares!  This is great for us." She turned her attention to Doop Doop and asked, "Doop Doop, do you know where my sister is right now?" "Heck yeah, I do. She's up on the mountain in the ice castle," Doop Doop explained. "Ice castle?" Marco muttered under his breath. Star, however, squealed in joy, shouting over to her companion. "You here that Marco, we finally know she is!" Marco gave his friend a wain smile, only to suddenly realize something, asking the snowman, "Wait, if Meteora's on top of the mountain than how did you get all the way down here?" "Oh I was looking for my arms," Doop Doop explained. "Your arms?" The two teens said as one. "Yeah, they ran away from me again," Doop Doop explained. "Your arms... ran away," Marco said skeptically. "Uh huh, you haven't seen them around  have you?" Doop Doop asked. Star and Marco shared a look, before shaking their heads. "Uhhh, no. Don't think so," Star replied, looking as confused as her companion. "Okay, well let me know if you do," the snowman continued, turning to walk away. "I better get looking for them again-" "Whoa, whoa. Wait, wait, wait," Star called out to him putting a gloved hand on his shoulder. "We were actually hoping to get some help, since we're not sure where my sister is exactly." Doop Doop stared at them for a second before saying, "Yes you do, she's in the ice castle just like I told you," The snowman replied innocently. "And where is the ice castle?" Marco tried. "On top of the North Mountain!" Marco face-palmed, while Star said in the calmest tone she could, fighting back her own frustration, "What Marco means is we need someone to take us up there." Doop Doop just stared at her blankly. “Like a guide,” she added in a hinting tone. "Oh well, I hope you find someone soon!" Doop Doop said obliviously, shuffling slowly away from the two again.

Star's face fell, watching sadly as her one hope of finding Meteora walked away, Marco putting a comforting hand on her shoulder. But suddenly Doop Doop gasped, turning to them and exclaiming, "Oh hey, I just had a great idea, why don't I take you to her!" Marco face-palmed again, shaking his head in disbelief, while Star's face lit up with joy. "Really?!" she shouted. "Oh thank you so much!" She quickly ran over to hug the snowman, practically squealing with excitement as she lifted him off the ground. "Well sure, who knows maybe I can get her to make me new arms when we get there," Doop Doop said hopefully.

"Uhh, maybe," Star replied with a shrug, setting him carefully back down. "Then follow me! I know a shortcut up!" Doop Doop said shuffling away quickly and Star cheered, starting to follow after him. But she was stopped as Marco put a hand on her shoulder, asking, "Uhh, Star don't you think you're forgetting an obvious problem here?" "What's that?" The blond asked curiously, cocking her head naively to the side. "The fact that snow tends to melt in summer," Marco replied quietly, tilting his head in the snowman's direction. Star looked over in the direction the snowman had gone, muttering, "Ooohh." She thought about her response to that for a few seconds before finally shrugging, telling her friend, "Eh, I'm sure it'll be fine. Who knows maybe my sister can make snow that doesn't melt or something?" "I don't know, Star. That seem like a pretty big 'if'," Marco pointed out. "Well, she can apparently make living snow so who knows what she can do," Star argued. "We don't!" Marco exclaimed in exasperation. "That's the whole problem!" "Hey where'd you guys go! We going to the ice castle or not?" Came Doop Doop's call. "Coming!" Star shouted back, before turning to her friend and saying, "Don't worry, Marco. I'm sure everything will work out fine." "That's what you said right before we got attacked by wolves," Marco responded but the girl was already walking away. She cupped a hand over her ear while walking backwards. "Hmm, what's that? I can't hear you from so far away," the blond said on a sing-song voice. Marco just let out a deep sigh, turning to his trusty reindeer with a tired look. "Why I am the only voice of reason around here, Nachos?" The reindeer nuzzled her head against his hand to let him know she understood and Marco gave her a quick pet on the head in response. "Marco, hurry up! We have to save summer!" came Star's scream and both Marco and Nachos smiled. This crazy blond was really starting to rub off on them. "What are we going to do with her?" The boy jokingly commented. Nachos however, just grunted knowingly. Her suspicions of his growing feelings becoming more and more apparent with every passing second. "Come on, girl, we better catch up to them before they get themselves in anymore trouble,” the boy said to his trusty stead.

And the two did just that, brushing past the hanging vines of crystallized ice, leaving the hidden world of the frozen forest to it's own devices, the only trace left behind being four pairs of footprints, all headed north.