#and we talked and laughed and his moms cousin and husband asked me about what i do and saw my art and they complimented me so much!!

[lovsome]

i dont wanna sound super corny but these two months with my bf feel like a fever dream…. how did i get so lucky

[whorekneecentral]

Traditions

Carlos Sainz Jr x Fem!Reader

Warnings: loose version of spanish new years traditions (might not be accurate, I googled lol), carlos has wandering hands, red underwear means good luck, dirty texts, carlos sr is over his son and his nonsense, you and carlos are on grape prep, kitchen sex, oral (f!receiving and m!receiving), penetrative sex (p in v), hair pulling, 'whore' used in a sexual context, cumplay sorta, ana is over you two as well, midnight kisses.

Word Count: 1,839

Author's Note: sorry for the late upload, it's been a hectic day!

merry smutmas series

--

Coming back from Christmas with your family, the two of you return to Spain to celebrate new years with his family and all their traditions. 

The holidays were a big thing for the Sainz family, both Christmas and New Year's warranted a big party.

It's 8pm on New Year's Eve and you were getting ready for the party that would be starting in an hour. You're in your boyfriend, Carlos's bedroom, sitting at the vanity doing your makeup when he got out of the shower.

You can see Carlos's reflection in the mirror, the white, fluffy towel hanging off of his waist to the beads of water still dripping down his bare chest. "I can feel you staring." He says, walking over to you.

Rolling your eyes, you speak. "Admiring, not staring. I have manners, unlike someone." You teased, watching as his arms snake around you, hands pulling on the bow that kept your robe shut.

"Behave," you scolded him, swatting his hands away. Carlos ignored you. "You look beautiful, mi amor." He whispers in your ear, your cheeks now red and the same colour as your bra that was peeking out.

Seems Carlos noticed the same thing, undoing your robe to confirm what he saw.

"What's this?" He asks, admiring the red lace you were wrapped up in. He seemed a bit confused to see you in the red set, knowing that it was something that you kept solely for when he got good race results.

Your brows furrow, "do you not know? Your sisters say that red underwear brings good luck."

"You don't really believe that," he chuckled, walking off to get dressed. You roll your eyes, "as if you don't. Your mom told me about your Ferrari contract and the red boxers that you keep for special occasions."

Carlos peeks out from his closet, "she told you that ?"

"Of course, do you think we sit in silence when we have lunch?" You laughed, taking the curlers out of your hair.

At some point after that, you two ventured down to the party.

Things were well underway, Carlos's parents entertaining, his sisters with their husbands dancing around with a few friends.

Carlos had separated from you to talk about his racing season with a few of his cousins who had arrived to the party late while you were pulled into a conversation with his father and his colleagues. Your father in law liked to show you off, his arm over your shoulder as he tells all his friends that you were like another daughter to him.

Your phone buzzed in your hand, glancing at it to see who had texted you.

It was your boyfriend, the same man who had been making heart eyes at you all night long.

From Carlos: meet me in my room.

You rolled your eyes, knowing what he wanted but you shot him a quick reply anyways.

To Carlos: what for? can you not see that I'm busy ?

From Carlos: a quickie, what else? I can't take my eyes off of you.

You snorted a laugh, he was ridiculous; he acted like a horny teenager around you, despite the fact that he was 30.

Carlos Sr seemed to notice your little laugh, glancing over at you. "Que pasa cariño?" (what happened dear?)

You decided to give Carlos a mini heart attack, knowing he's looking at you right now. You show your phone to his father, his dad rolling his eyes at his son's behaviour, giving him a disapproving look from across the room.

Carlos Sr takes your phone from you, texting something you don't see until he passes the phone back to you.

To Carlos: ella está ocupada ahora mismo. (she's busy right now.)

Your lips pressed together, biting back a laugh as your father in law led you to the dance floor, his hand in yours as he spun you around. You indulged the man, dancing with him for a bit before passing him over to Blanca for the rest of the song.

Reyes finds you shortly after, her hand in yours as she drags you to Carlos, also grabbing her son by the wrist. The two of you exchanged a glance, a bit confused as to what was going on and unsure if you were in trouble for something. The woman takes you two into the kitchen, there are little bowls lined up on trays as well as 4 massive basins of grapes.

"I forgot to ask the catering staff to put these together, they've left for the evening. Can you two do it?"

Carlos nods, "of course, no problem."

They had a tradition, 12 grapes at midnight was a symbol of the upcoming 12 months and would bring you good luck.

You and Carlos were left to sort out the grapes, putting twelve of them into each bowl; you started lining up the bowls while Carlos was washing the grapes off in the sink.

The two of you split it up, as he dried them and put them back into the basin, you sorted and dropped the 12 grapes into the small bowls.

You were on the last set, Carlos was moving the ones that were done to the table by the door so it'd be easier for the guests to grab.

The man comes up behind you, arms around your waist, lips on your neck. His stubble poking at your skin, kissing it softly. You rolled your eyes.

"What do you want?"

"I can't give my girlfriend a kiss?"

"No," you scoffed, "a kiss is never a kiss with you."

Case in point; Carlos's hands wandered down from your waist to your hips.

"Carlos," you mumble, feeling his fingers meet your bare skin, the hem of your dress moving higher and higher with each passing second. "Don't," you warn him, the man ignoring you.

The grapes long forgotten, your hands gripping at the counter as you feel your boyfriend drop down onto his knees behind you, a trail of sloppy kisses on the back of your thighs.

“Carlos,” you call, “we shouldn't.”

“Don’t you want to?” He asks, fingers dancing along your skin. You let out a breath when you feel his lips on your thigh, soft kisses being peppered across the surface. “Of course I do.” You whispered.

“Then shut up,” he smiles, his head disappearing under the dress.

Your head falls forward against your arms when you feel his tongue on you, he’s yet to move your panties and you're already a mess.

He finally does, smiling to himself when he notices that it’s also red; matching the bra he saw peeking out the top of your robe earlier. “Fuck-” you breathe, fingers still gripping at the marble counters.

He looked up, fixed on you; your hair tossed in every direction and your head tipped back. He can see the necklace you have on, the 55 pendant hanging from it, the same pendant and necklace he gifted you all those years ago for your first Christmas together.

The man gets up, kissing you when he does. You can taste yourself on his lips, Carlos turns you to face him properly and pushes you back against the counter once again, your hand slipping between the two of you as you undo his pants. He pulls your leg to hitch on his hip, your panties already pulled to the side and your dress rolled up at your hips.

Please don’t let there be wrinkles you think, the thought being cut off when Carlos pushes into you. His lips find yours, muffling your moans as he fucks you. Your nails dig into his bicep, his shirt sleeve definitely wrinkled.

“Hold on,” he tells you, pulling out and you whimper at the loss of the fullness. Carlos turns you around and you get what he’s doing, letting you feel a bit more comfortable.

Soon enough, you’re bent over the counter, the last row of grapes discarded off to the side.

His hand is placed on your hip, holding you in place as he pushes into you, picking up the pace again. Your head drops down onto your arms and he didn’t like that. He pulls you up by your hair, your back arches and his arm wrapped around your middle, holding you up.

“You don’t want everyone to hear what a whore you are, do you?” He asks you, his lips against your ear.

You shook your head, knowing if you speak, you’d just be rambling incoherently. “Gonna cum for me, aren't you ? You’re my good girl.” He says.

He feels you clench around him and his hand reaches between the two of you, his fingers finding your clit once again. “Oh my god,” your hips bucked, Carlos' fingers matching the pace of his hips, your body rocking back and forth to get the most out of him.  

“C’mon amor, want you to cum for me.” He says, knowing it won't be long more. 

He watches as your eyes flutter shut and he reaches you with his other hand, holding your jaw and pulling you up a little, your elbows holding up the weight of your body. A few more sloppy thrusts and between that and his fingers, you’re over the edge. 

He kisses you, muffling the noise you were making. 

Without warning, Carlos pulls out of you and pulls you off the counter. You were confused as to what was happening, still in a post orgasm daze. 

The man has you on your knees, looking up at him. 

The dots connect the moment his cock’s pressed to your tongue and he watches as you circle your tongue around the tip. 

“Fuck,” he leans back against the counter, pushing your head down to take all of him in your mouth. His eyes are fixed on you, hand tangled in your hair as you take all of him in your mouth. 

The sight alone was enough to get him to cum and it did. 

You look up at him through your lashes as swallow. 

His hand finds your chin, leaning down to kiss you. “Good girl,” he mumbles against your lips. 

It takes you two a moment to re-situate yourselves, fixing your clothes and hair. You had Carlos wipe the counters down while you washed your hands rather thoroughly before finishing up on the grapes.

There's a knock on the wall, Ana peeking into the kitchen. "Mama wanted to know if you two got lost in here." She joked.

Carlos shook his head, "we were just talking."

Ana eyes your smudged lipstick and her brother's messy hair. "Hm, okay. Help me bring out the grapes?" She asks and you push past Carlos, ignoring his smirk as you helped her carry out the trays and pass out the grapes.

Shortly after, you find Carlos in a corner. You passed him a bowl of grapes and kept the other for yourself as you sat on his lap. One by one, you ate them until all 12 were gone.

The clock struck 12, the fireworks popping outside. "Happy new years, mi amor." Carlos whispered to you, kissing you softly.

Your thumb brushed over his cheek, "happy new years Carlos."

---

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[raya-hunter01]

Not My Sister's Keeper Pt. 8

Roman X OC(Kara)

Jey Uso X OC (Tia)

Rating: 18+

Warning: Smut; sex, fluff, couple arguing, Jealousy, infidelity, pregnancy

Roamn’s wife recently left medical school and returned home to save her marriage. Upon her return, she finds out things are not what they seem. Her sister is pregnant by her best friend Jey Uso, who is also Roman’s cousin, and her husband is acting suspicious.

What happens when a conversation overhead on a baby monitor blows her world apart?

Boston Medical Center

Two Weeks Later

Kara’s POV

“Kara, you gotta eat baby,” my mom pleaded as I sighed taking another bite of the soup she was feeding me.

“I just hate ya’ll gotta do all of this stuff for me,” I said feeling just discouraged and helpless.

“Don’t do that, what I told you last night?” Jey asked reaching over and wiping my tears.

“To let ya’ll help me,” I whispered as he took the food from my mom.

“Ma, gon’ check on the other one, I know you’re worried about her. I got Kara,” he said as my mom looked guilty.

“I wouldn’t make it back in time before visiting hours is over.”

“Mama, it’s ok go check on her,” I said as she sighed reaching over and giving me a hug.

“I’ll be back in the morning, they are going to transfer her from the jail to the hospital, I don’t want her to be alone,” she said as I nodded putting her mind at ease.

Even though deep down I wanted her to stay in jail not getting transferred to hospital for mental evaluation.

As soon as the door closed Jey and I shared a knowing look.

“A’ight gon’ let it out,” he said as I shook my head.

“What good would that do?”

“It may would help you feel better, you’ve been through a lot you need to talk Kara,” Jey said as I thought about how to even put into words how I felt.

“My sister almost killed me, and laughed over my body. I’ll never be ok with her Jey, and I don’t think mama can handle that.”

“Kara it ain’t for her to handle, I would be worried as fuck if you could be cool with everything that happened.”

“She’s going to try to get me to not press charges, I just know it,” I whispered as Jey sighed.

“I figured as much you’re both her daughters and she loves you both,” He said as I looked down at my chest.

“I stabbed her Jey, like I didn’t even second guess it-”

“Kara, she shot you, and was trying to kill you. I think anybody can understand that.”

“The lawyer said I would have to testify and so would Roman and Trin. I just want it to be done and over with,” I said as Jey sat down the bowl of soup.

“Trin is game if you are and even though I ain’t talked to Roman I know he will testify too. She can’t get away with this Kara. It’s gotta stop before someone gets killed. And I’ll be damned if that’s you,” he said as I burst into tears.

“I know,” I cried as Jey maneuvered himself in the bed carefully pulling me in his arms as I cried.

“We gon’ get through this…I promise you,” Jey whispered, and I prayed he was right.

-----

One Month Later

Boston Municipal Courthouse

 Jey’s POV

This has been a straight shit show. Tia is really up in here on the stand painting a picture of Kara betraying her. I am just confused as shit right now as is everyone else.

“Ms. Morris what was going through your mind as you held your sister and you boyfriend hostage?”

“Boyfriend?” Trin whispered as I felt Kara’s grip on my hand tighten as she listed to Tia serve up her lies.

“All I could think about is that I had just got suspended and I just wanted to talk to my sister.  I go to her house and there is my boyfriend I couldn’t believe they were hooking up behind my back,” she said as Kara leaned on her knees.

“Is she serious right now?” Kara whispered as Tia began crying. “I saw he had sent her flowers and I just lost it. We were arguing and before I knew it, I pulled out the gun and it went off by accident.”

I put my hand on Kara’s knee as I saw the pool of tears in her eyes. “She’s lying and they’re believing her,” she whispered looking at the jury trying to not lose it.

I couldn’t believe myself when I saw a juror crying.

“Kara, it gon’ be ok,” I whispered as she shook her head in disbelief as Tia spun a new web of lies trying to save her own ass.

“No, it’s not. It’s hopeless,” Kara whispered getting up and going out of the courtroom as I got up to follow her.

“Kara, ya’ll are going to have your time up there, and it will work out, I said catching up to her. “Why are we here?” Kara asked, the look on her face breaking my heart.

“To get justice and you will get it, I promise,” I said seeing Trin coming out with Jimmy, Roman and a few other people.

“They are doing a twenty-minute recess and then I’m up,” Roman said as I rubbed Kara’s arms trying to get her to calm down.

“Did all that really just happen?” she asked as I saw her wince in pain.

“Look sit down you’re still hurt and trying to do too much,” I fussed as I saw Roman cut his eyes at me.

“Kara, we go up there, tell the truth and everything will work out,” Roman said as Kara took a deep breath and laid her head on my shoulder.

“I hope so,” she whispered rubbing her chest as Roman looked at me with worry.

“Jey, can I talk to you for a minute?” Roman asked as I reluctantly agreed as Jimmy switched places with me and sat next to Kara.

I didn’t know what he wanted but it must have been important for him to want to talk about it now at all places.

“I need to tell you what I’mma talk about up there,” he said as I stopped him.

“Kara already told me you were in the house when she got there. She told me ya’ll argued about me, the keys, her pulling a knife on you . She told me everything,” I said as Roman sighed in relief.

“I didn’t know if she had told you, so much has been going on. I just didn't want you to be blindsided,” Roman said as I nodded in understanding.

“Jey, I’m trying my hardest here to make it right,” Roman said as I sighed. “I know I got a long way to go, and things will never be the same, but I want us to at least be able to be cordial to each other if I see you at family functions.”

“I know, I just don’t think nobody will be able to move on until Tia is gone,” I said as we saw people heading back in the court room.

“Then let’s make it happen..Kara and Logan’s safety  are the top priority,” Roman said as I silently agreed as we went back to join the others.

The tension in the court room was so thick as Roman was sworn in. Tia looked so calm it was almost scary.

“So, Mr. Reigns on the night in question why you at were your ex-wife’s house?”

“Objection your honor, why Mr. reigns was there has nothing to do with this case. This case is about Ms. Morris showing up there and holding them hostage and almost killing her sister along with Mr. reigns and Mrs. Fatu who was almost shot at.”

“Sustained, Ms. Morris stated she showed up and her boyfriend was there, so continue counselor." The judge said as I frowned at him.

“Oh my god,” Kara whispered as Trin slid over and put her arm around Kara as I grasped her hand.

“We got you,” she whispered as Kara sighed, looking at Roman

“I had saw my ex-wife on a video my cousin had posted. I was upset so I flew to see her, went in her home to wait for her and we argued about it when she got home,” Roman said with remorse.

“Mr. Reigns how did your wife- ….I’m sorry ex wife-”

“Council stop badgering the witness,” the judge said seeing how uncomfortable Roman was at the lawyer taunting him.

“I’m sorry your honor…Mr. Reigns how did Ms. Morris finally get you to agree to leave?” the lawyer asked as Roman looked over at Kara then back at the lawyer nervously.

“Uh, I wouldn’t leave after she continuously asked, Kara did what made her feel safe. I don’t blame her, I was kinda out of control,” Roman said as Kara wiped her tears.

“That’s not what I asked you Mr. Reigns, what did she do?” The lawyer pressed.

Kara’s POV

This man is really up here trying to say I’m the aggressor. Roman looked at me and I gave him a small smile letting him know I was ok and to tell the truth.

“I’ll ask you ag-”

“I don’t need you to ask again, I wouldn’t leave so Kara pulled out a knife and told me to leave. I apologized and went to le-”

“So, what you saying is she was already angry and willing to hurt someone, maybe even kill them in her hysterics. I mean she almost killed her own sister,” the lawyer said as I looked over at my mom who was crying.

“Objection your honor how is the victim on trial?!”

“Sustained, answer the question Mr. Reigns.”

“This motherfucker,” I heard Jimmy hiss as I felt Jey calmy caressing my hand.

“Kara, was upset and hurt. I wouldn’t leave, and even though I put her through hell, do you know what she did?

“I’m sure you will enlighten us Mr. Reigns,” the defense lawyer said smartly as I saw Tia smirk.

“I damn sure will, when she had a chance to run, she stopped and came back when Tia threatened to kill me. She asked Kara did she want to be the reason my daughter wouldn’t have a father,” Roman said as getting choked up.

“You monster, you tried to kill my baby!” Ms. Janice yelled standing up as the judge began beating his gavel.

“Order in the court! Order in the court!”

“I can’t believe ya’ll are putting people through this! She did it and needs to be in jail!” Janice screamed as Jimmy was trying to get her to calm down seeing two bailors coming towards us.  

“Come on auntie, let’s go take a walk,” he whispered leading her out the courtroom as she cried against him.

 The judge seemed conflicted if he should continue, or not as Roman stood up wanting to go after his mom.’

“Are you ok to continue Mr. Reigns?” the judge asked as he nodded sitting back down.

“Um, your honor it has already been a long day can we reconvene tomorrow?” the state attorney said as Roman seemed happy about the suggestion

“Yes, reconvene tomorrow at 9 a.m.,” the judge said as Roman came down and went to check on his mom.

“Ya’ll this is going to be an uphill battle, she’s spinning everything,” Mr. Reiner said as we walked out.

“It’s hopeless,” I said as my mom walked over making me look at her.

“Baby, its gonna be alright,” she said giving me a hug as I tried to hold it together.

As I saw Roman talking to his mom, he seemed relieved as she nodded, and they hugged.

“What they so happy about? That was a disaster in there,” Trin said as they walked towards us.

“Are you ok? You acting real happy all of a sudden,” I said as Roman hugged me, as I saw Jey tense up for a second before I saw his body relax.

“Uce, do you remember when I met ya’ll to sign the papers for the house and Kara was talking about getting used to being alone in the city again?” Roman asked as Jey rubbed his beard.

“Uh, yea, I remember,” Jey said still not following and neither was I. “What did you suggest she get?” Roman asked as it then clicked for Jey.

“Ring cameras,” Jey whispered as Roman nodded.

“Yes, ring cameras…Now please tell me ya’ll got them,” Roman pleaded as I nodded.

“Yea, Jey and Jimmy started doing them, but they had only got to the living room and kit-”

“Oh my god, ya’ll got everything on video,” Trin whispered as Mr. Reiner seemed to perk up at the new information.

“How do you retrieve the footage, Kara?” he asked, knowing I didn’t live in that house anymore.

“When I used It, it would automatically save to my iCloud and the ring camera app. When I was out and about, I could look at footage from inside the house,” I said opened the app and going back to the date before giving it to Mr. Reiner as he turned off the sound and began fast forwarding through the footage from that day.

“Can we use it?” Jey asked as but he didn’t say anything for a few minutes.

 “Kara, Roman, and Trinity come with me please,” he said pausing the video on my phone as I looked at Jey, panicking. “I’ll be right here waiting,” he said as I nodded following behind Trin and Roman.

“Can I help you Mr. Reiner?” the clerk asked as he smiled. “Yes, I need to see Judge Kendell in his chambers this is important. I have new evidence this has come to light, and it is vital to our case,” he said as the clerk got up to see had he left yet.

“Please let him see us,” Trin prayed as I felt like this was too good to be true.

“I can’t believe I didn’t think about that. We could have avoided all this shit,” I hissed as roman grabbed my hands.

“Hey, it’s about to be over…Believe me,” he whispered as I nodded.

“I’m just glad you remembered, because I didn’t even think about it,” I said as he sighed. “It just popped in my head when I was talking to mom and I’m glad it did too,” he said giving me a hug that I actually welcomed this time.

“The judge will see you all now,” the clerk said taking us to his chamber. I felt like I was walking the green mile.

The poor judge looked ill watching the footage, thankfully he didn’t have the sound on, and we didn’t have to see it. I don’t think I would have been able to keep it together.

“I will inform the prosecution of the new developments. You do know this will be played in court tomorrow. Do you all think you can handle that judge Kendall asked as Roman and Trin nodded.

“Ms. Morris what about you?”

“If it gets to be too much, I’ll leave…They have to see it, she can’t get away with this.”

“Ms. Morris, you fought for your life in there that night, and I don’t want you to feel guilty. You had no choice in the matter, and the jury needs to see this,” he said as I nodded in understanding and feeling better knowing he knew the truth.

“Mrs. Fatu, I’ve watched your face throughout this trial, and I’ve seen a lot of this weighing heavy on you. I want you to know that you did the right thing, you ran and got your family help.”

 Reaching over I grabbed her hand in mine as she wiped her tears.

“Told you so,” I whispered, clearing my throat trying not to cry myself as Roman put his arm around us both.

 “I’m sorry we’ve had to put you all through this.” Jude Kendall said sincerely remorseful.

“I’m just glad Roman thought about it and we can set the record straight,” I said he looked at Roamn.

 “You didn’t hesitate to risk your life for these young ladies, its commendable.”

“They’re my family I wasn’t a hard decision,” Roman said as the Judge cracked a smile.

“Mr. Reigns the circus that took place in there today will not happen tomorrow; I promise you.”

“I hope not sir, but I’m just thankful this will be over soon so I can get back to my daughter.”

“I will see you all at 9 am and let’s finish this,” he said standing up shaking all of our hands.

I walked out feeling happy but at the same time unable to really feel it was over until I heard a guilty verdict.

----

Later on that night

Kara’s new house

Jey’s POV

“So, ya’ll didn’t see the footage?” Jimmy asked as Trin shook her head.

“Nah, he said watching it tomorrow was going to be hard enough. He watched and apologized. How’s Kara?”

“I just checked on her..She’s finally asleep.  It was hard on her today,” I said not even wanting to think about the train wreck that was court today.

“I know it was, I couldn’t believe that asshole was trying to paint her as the problem,” Jimmy said as I nodded taking a swig of my beer.

“I wanted to reach over and kill him, like do you know what she been through. What we all been through dealing with that crazy fool?”

“He gets paid to get his clients off, but he ain’t gon’ be able to do shit tomorrow, it’s game over,” Trin said with full of confidence.

“Your right let’s just focus on tomorrow. I don’t even know how Kara is going to react seeing that footage tomorrow. Hell, how are any of us going to react?” I asked, truly not looking forward to watching the video tomorrow.

The lawyer called earlier and told us they had lifted the footage from the app and put it together splicing the view from the living room and kitchen together.

Tomorrow people were going to see everything up until they carried Roman out of the house on a gurney.

The worst moment of our lives was about to be displayed for everyone to see but if that was what needed to be done for Tia to pay then so be it.

-----

The next day

Boston Municipal Courthouse

Kara’s POV

I smiled watching that smile fall from Tia’s face as the judge allowed the evidence to logged in and tagged. They are currently moving the big screen TV to the middle of the courtroom.

“I have to warn you all this is graphic, and does have sound.,” the Judge said as Tia’s lawyer all but jumped out of his chair.

“Your honor, I object this is a witch hunt,” Tia’s lawyer said as the footage was being loaded.

“Sustained…. Counselor your client got on this stand and said her side of the story, now the prosecution is about to present their side of the story and evidence.” He said as Tia’s lawyer sat down placing his hand over the microphone as Tia leaned over talking to him.

She was shaken, that smile was gone now, and I loved it.

“Ms. Morris, Mr. Reigns, and Mrs. Fatu if at any time this gets to be too much you can leave,” the judge said looking at me as I gave him a small smile.

The video started with me walking across the living room with Roman in tow.

I felt the Jey tense as he saw Roman following me into the kitchen.

I felt embarrassed watching myself pulling out a knife on Roman. “God, I look crazy, maybe she was right,” I whispered as Jey shook his head.

“No, you were defending yourself, he wouldn’t leave,” Jey said looking over at Roman who had his head down, refusing to look.

“Kara, we need to talk about Je-”

“I don’t want to talk to you…I want you out!”

Hearing my voice, Iclosed my eyes almost transporting back to that moment as I tried to tune everyone out. But hearing a collective gasp, I looked up to see Tia urging Roman back inside the house and shutting the door with the gun pointed directly at him.

Lie number one exposed…..

“My god, Tia,” my mother whispered in disbelief as the scene played out like a movie in front of us.

“Get back here or I’ll shoot him.. Do you want to be the reason Logan has no father?”

I felt helpless once again, seeing myself this way was fucking with me. My hands in the air begging and pleading for her to calm down as she seemed to love the fear she had instilled in us.

Roman jumping in front of me to protect me.

“You didn’t give us a chance because you wanted her, Roman! You wanted her!..... Jey wanted her!”

I looked at Jey as he frowned looking the footage, but he never let go of my hand. His eyes full of tears.

“Kara, I got your food, twins ran up the street to the store for your ginger ale, and some snacks.”

“Trin Run!!”

“Help! Help us! She has a gun!” Trin hysterical screams fill the courtroom as she leans, over putting her head on my shoulder.

“I can’t do this,” my mother cried getting up, but my dad pulled her back down into her seat. “No, you need to see this, we all do.”

“Run Kara!”

I glanced up at the screen, hearing the first gunshot, my stomach becoming queasy as I looked over and saw Roman getting up to follow his mom, who was unable to stand it anymore.

 She had just saw her son head hit his head on the table as he struggled to get a gun away from a lunatic. His neck snapping back as he collapsed on the ground, unconscious and bleeding profusely from his head.

Who could blame her for wanting to leave?

I was finding people to look at instead of watching the video. I glanced at the jury as soon as I saw the video switch to the view in the kitchen.

I didn’t want to see it…I couldn’t see it.

As another gunshot rang out, I closed my eyes heard my body hit the floor with a thud.  I shifted in my seat trying move, but Jey stopped me, pulling me closer as I looked up at him.  

The ushed tears spilling from his eyes breaking my heart. I felt the walls closing in on me.

My heart dropping  to my stomach as a blood curling scream escaped from my mother’s lips as I stabbed my sister, the swift sound of the blade entering her flesh made me nauseous.

The silent sobs of the jurors making my heart race. I saw many people in the room focused on me, trying to see if I was actually watching the video…They wanted a show, but I wasn’t going to give it to them.

What they didn’t know was that I didn’t have to look at the TV screen to know what was happening.

It was a horrible nightmare etched in my memory, consuming me as I laid in that hospital bed thinking and wondering what I could have done differently.  

The way you could hear a pin drop in the courtroom when the Paramedic screamed, I wasn’t breathing and asking for backup sent chills down my spine.

Hearing Jey’s voice I looked at the screen. There was Jey seemingly in a daze helping the paramedic any way he could.

“She’s dead, Jey,” the joy in Tia voice shocking everyone in the court room. She truly wanted me dead and it ain’t no coming back from that.

Seeing the relief in Jey’s face as I began breathing again as he kissed me on the temple, I couldn’t stop my tears.  

“Kara, its Josh…I love you so much…You hear me I’m here and I ain’t goin’ nowhere,” I couldn’t take it anymore and as calmy as I could, I got up and left, as Jey followed me.

“Kara, stop for a second,” he pleaded as I tried to find a quiet place, finally going into an empty stairwell away from prying eyes.

“I’m so sorry I did that to you,” I whimpered as Jey made me stop walking and wrapped me up in his arms, burying his head in my neck.

“You ain’t got nothin’ to be sorry for,” his voice breaking as we silently cried together, the reality of what could have happened and did happen hitting us hard.

“I almost lost you and it’s fuckin’ wit me but I can’t even imagine what you feeling after having to see all that. It’s ok to not be ok.”

“I know, it just seemed to hit me all at once,” I whispered pulling away slightly, to look at him.

“We gon’ be ok though Kara, we are almost there,” Jey said as I gave him a tired smile.

“Thanks for being here,” I said as he smiled at me. “I wouldn’t be anywhere else, I got you and we can go back when you ready,” he whispered as I nodded.

After about an hour, we went back in the courtroom sat back down next to Trin and Jimmy.

“You ok? We had gone out to look for you but couldn’t find y’all.”

“Yea, I just had a moment sis, and needed a break. What did we miss?” I asked as she chuckled.

“Girl, the defense was so shook.. They waived calling any of us back up to the stand to be questioned. They know it’s a wrap, they rested and gave a weak ass closing argument and now want to take the original plea deal,” Trin said as rubbing my knee trying to calm my nerves.

“I’m so glad this is about over,” I said as Mr. Reiner stood up.

“Yesterday we heard this sad sob story from Tia Morris on how her sister hurt her by going with her boyfriend. When in actuality, Tia did that betrayal to her sister Kara Morris,” he said talking to the jury, briefly turning around to point at Tara.

Watching their faces, it seemed they were invested in what he was telling them.

“Your honor is this necessary?” Tara’s Lawyer asked as Mr. Reiner smiled.

“Your honor, they brought up this yesterday, so I feel the jury has a right to know how all this started.”

“Sustained…Keep it brief,” Judge Kendall said as Mr. Reiner nodded in understanding.

 “Tara Morris isn’t as innocent as she claims to be.. She sought out her sister’s husband, seduced him, had a child with him and them tried to extort money from him. The child hasn’t had anything to do with its mother really since birth.” He said walking back and forth down the jury box, making sure to look at everyone.

“When Ms. Morris realized Mr. Reigns still loved his wife, and wasn’t going to be with her, she abandoned the child and agreed to sign over her rights to her daughter if Mr. Reigns would give her 50 million dollars.”

“Dirty bitch,” Trin muttered as I sighed shifting in my seat.

“Her sister Kara Morris then moves away to get away from the chaos that is her relationship with her sister, and husband. Gets a divorce, is trying to piece her life back together to only have her home invaded and almost shot and killed by that same sister she left Florida to get away from.”

“Gon’ break dat shit down for’em,” Jimmy said engrossed in what the lawyer was saying. Everyone was and I actually felt a little more at ease.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, who taunts another human being as someone they love lays dying on the cold hard floor?” The dramatic pause in his voice captivating the room.

I’ll tell you who… An animal that’s who, an animal shows no remorse. The tricky part though is when Ms. Morris realized she had to face the consequences of her actions, she cried mental breakdown, and I don’t think that’s the case her at all.”

I felt Jey caressing my leg as I looked at him and he winked. “She’s going down,” he mouthed as I nodded, looking back at my mother who seemed just defeated.

“The video we all saw today clearly shows malice intent and while at times unhinged, Ms. Morris knew what she was doing. Now, I would never say deny someone mental help, but I do believe in actions have consequences and Tia Morris has been terrorizing people with no consequences for her actions.”

I nodded agreeing with him as I saw a few jurors looking at me with a sad smile.

I didn’t want pity. I wanted this to be over. Sensing my discomfort Jey draped his arm around my shoulder pulling me closer, kissing me gently on the temple as I melted into his touch.

“It’s time we do right by Ms. Morris and make sure her attacker takes responsibility for her actions and her disregard for human life. It’s time for Kara to heal so she can move on with her life.”

He was working the room, and everyone was hanging on to his every word.

 “It’s time we do right by Mr. Reigns so he can move on a focus on being a father to his beautiful little girl who needs him so he can move on with his life.”

“Oh, he’s going in for the kill,” Trin whispered as I smiled. “Yea, he is.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time we do right by Mrs. Fatu so she’s not afraid to walk into her best friend’s home. Give her the comfort of knowing there won’t be a psycho lying in wait trying to kill the people she loves or even kill her.” Mr. Reiner said, his voice trembling as I saw an older lady juror nodding, wiping her tears.

“Damn, man,” Jimmy whispered trying to keep his emotions in check as he looked at Trin. “Hey, I’m ok,” she assured him leaning over giving him a chaste kiss on the lips.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, you have the power to give them all peace of mind so they can finally move forward with their lives… Please make the right decision and thank you all for your time.”

I wanted to jump up and give him a standing ovation, but I had to force myself to sit quietly. Looking over I saw Tia arguing with her lawyer, that cool facade long gone. She was scared.

“Oh, he did that,” Trin said with a small smile.

“Yes, he did.. Now let’s see if the jury can take it on home,” I said as the judge gave them instructions.

As they filed out the room to deliberate, I went and sat by my mom and dad. I had been somewhat avoiding them knowing they were struggling with being there for Tia and me.

They didn’t want either of their children in trouble or hurt.

“Honey, I’m so sorry,” my mom cried as I shook my head at her words.

“Mama, it’s ok…I’m good,” I said as my father gave me a hug. “You did what you had to do,” he whispered as my mom began sobbing.

“What was she thinking?” my mom cried as my dad sighed.

“Rebecca, she wasn’t thinking. She’s so used to getting away with stuff or shifting the blame she thought she was invincible. Now she’s going to have to deal with the consequences,” he said as my mother continued to cry.

“Maybe the time away will do her good and she can get some help she needs,” she said as I tried to share her positive outlook, but I wanted her ass in jail for the rest of her life.

Nothing would never ever be the same again.

As we went to lunch at a local eatery down the street, I tried not to worry but I was so use to Tia finding some way to get out of things I had to be prepared.

“So, when are you going to Mike’s?” Jimmy asked as I chuckled. “I don’t know yet, but he has been sending me ideas of what he could do to cover this,” I said pointing at my chest.

“It’s not that big, so you could easily get like a tiny tattoo,” Jey said knowing I was never really big on tattoos on my body, but I loved them on him.

“Doctor said it would be a few months before I could get a tattoo, I’m still healing. I think I want a little one, but the idea of the pain scares me. I remember your choice words as he did your back tattoo,” I said as he chuckled.

“Man, dat shit hurt, I was questioning my choices,” he said as we laughed.  

“Good choice though, it looks amazing, and I love it. It was really cool to see the process up close,” I said as he blushed.

“Damn, she got twin out her blushin’ n shit,” Jimmy said as Trin slapped him on the shoulder.

“Get out they business, Jurdy.” Trin warned as Jey rolled his eyes at his brother. Hearing my phone buzz on the table, I quickly picked it up.

“Hello, Mr. Reiner,” I said as the table got quiet in anticipation.

“I was just calling to let you know, they’ve reached a verdict. I’ll meet you all back at the courthouse.”

“Um, thank you, we’ll see you there,” I said hanging up, feeling anxious. Damn that was quick as hell.

“What did he say?” Jey asked as I looked at him in disbelief. “They already have reached a verdict, we need to head back to the courthouse,” I said as he smiled at me.

“What we still sittin’ here for then,” he said getting up to go pay the bill.

“Damn, in under an hour! “Jimmy said as Trin smiled at him.

“It’s guilty, I know it is,” she said as I silently prayed it was.

---

Boston Municipal Courthouse

Jey’s POV

“Will the defendant please rise,” the judge said as Tia stood up with her lawyer.

The appointed juror that was nominated to speak began to read the verdict.

“We the jury on the charge of attempted murder in the 1st degree we find the defendant, Tia Morris not guilty.” The collective gasp of disbelief spread throughout the courtroom as Tia smiled.

I wanted to bolt but Jey held me in place. “Just listen,” he pleaded.

“On count two, attempted murder in the second degree, we find the defendant Tia Morris guilty,” the juror said as I collapsed against Jey in relief.

“I got you..I’m right here,” Jey whispered as I tried to keep my tears at bay.

“On the charge of reckless endangerment in the second degree, we find the defendant Tia Morris guilty.” Satisfied murmurs filled the courtroom as I finally felt free, she had been found guilty.

“Was the verdict unanimously reached?” the judge asked as all the jurors answered yes.

“Good, we can begin to talk about the terms of the plea deal.”

Looking at Tia, I knew the theatrics was about to begin. She all of a sudden cried out, and collapsed on the floor as my mother screamed, running over to her with a bailiff.

“Oh, get up, ain’t nobody buying that shit,” Trin said as I shook my head.

“There she goes, always two steps ahead,” I whispered as Jey made me look at him.

“Aye, she can fall out all she wants, it’s a done deal…You hear me, they found her guilty,” he said as I nodded trying not to look over at her.

“Bitch, get yo’ fakin’ ass up off dat floor,” Trin whispered with a hiss as Jimmy shook his head in confusion.

“She really done fell her crazy ass out on these folks’ floor,” he said as Roman looked over at us in just as much shock.

“Leave her alone, she alright..Get up ,Tia,” my father said standing up as my mother scoffed at him.

“She’s hurt Bill.”

“Hurt my ass, more like caught. Tia get up before I come over there,” he ordered as she began to sit up, wiping her tears.

“Yea, that’s what I thought,” my dad said irritated, sitting back down shaking his head.

“Lord have mercy,” Ms. Janice said as Roman shook his head.

“They got her Rebecca, come back over here,” my dad said as my mom looked Tia over quickly and came back to her seat.

“Well, that was rather eventful,” Judge Kendall said looking at Tia as she wept standing next to her lawyer.

“Ms. Morris, your guilty verdict of second degree means some feel you acted in a moment of passion. That tails a 5-to-15-year sentence. Your reckless endangerment charge warrants three to seven years. Now your attorney wants your clean record to be taken into account and I tend to somewhat agree.”

“Thank god," my mother said as I rolled my eyes. I was getting irritated as fuck, as Jey reeled me in with his touch.

“Tia Morris, in taking all that into consideration, and you opting for the original plea deal. Ms. Morris, I hereby sentence you to eight years at the Boston State Women’s prison. Probation eligibility after three years served. Counseling will be provided on a weekly basis,” he said as Tia nodded, wiping her tears.

“Thank you so much your honor,” she whimpered making my skin crawl.

“You’ve been given a second chance Ms. Morris don’t make the court regret it. Also, I’m issuing a no contact order with your sister Kara Morris. When released if you violate the order, you will go back to finish your original 15-year sentence. Do you understand?”

“Yes, your honor I do,” Tia whispered as I nodded taking in the verdict.

“She could be out in three years.”

“Hey, let’s not think about it now,” Jey said as I looked at Tia as she hugged her lawyer.

Justice had been served, but I still felt like things between Tia, and I were a long time from being over.

Could we all really move on with this cloud hanging over our heads?

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[whatdoeseverybodywant]

Rebuild & Restore - Chapter 7

I do NOT give permission for my work to be translated or reposted on here or any other site, even if you give me credit. DO NOT REPOST MY FICS

❤ Reblogs, comments, likes, and feedback ALWAYS appreciated ❤ 

All OC Characters belong to me

Prequel (All Falls Down)

Series Masterlist

“Soo.” Elijah trailed off as he and Kiyana were driving to the restaurant. “That was your ex-husband huh?” 

“Yeah.” She said “I’m so sorry about that..” She apologized again. “He wasn’t supposed to be there.” she paused. “Him or his cousin.”  Elijah laughed. 

“It’s no big deal. Trust me. I’ve dealt with worse from my ex-wife. Her brothers are still on my ass to this day.” He chuckled again. 

“Oh you were married?” Kiyana asked, perplexed because he never mentioned it.

“Is that a problem?” Now Elijah was confused. Not even 10 minutes ago, he thought he was about to have a melee with her ex husband and his cousin. He cut his eyes over to her before looking back at the road when she didn’t answer. “Ki?” 

“No, it’s not a problem.” She shrugged. “I just thought you would mention it by now.” She paused, and turned her head to look at him. “It’s not a big deal though.” 

“You sure?” Elijah asked as he pulled up to a red light, now turning his full attention to her. “I don’t wanna start us off on the wrong foot.” 

“Ohh, there’s an us?” She teased with a smile, feeling her cheeks heat up. 

“There’s definitely an us. I normally have a rule that I don’t date coworkers but, it’s just something about you Kiyana.” There goes them butterflies again. She thought as their faces inched closer. He cupped her jaw and Kiyana felt her heart rate spike. Just as their lips were about to connect, the car behind them honked causing the both of them to jump away from each other. 

“Fuck!” Josh cursed as he watched Kiyana get into Elijah’s car and drive off. This was exactly what he was afraid of. He stomped past Joe and into his former home. “Samara!” He called out, softly though, still mindful of his sleeping children.  “Mara?!” He called out again, rolling his eyes as she strolled out of the kitchen munching on his children’s Doritos. 

“What?” 

“What restaurant did they go to?” He huffed when she shrugged and pushed past him to sit on the couch. “Samara ,please.” Josh begged. “I know I fucked up by doin' what I did. But shit, I can’t just give up and go let her fall in love with someone else. I won’t be able to take it. So please, just tell me what restaurant they went to.” 

Samara felt her hatred for Josh slip away. While they were never close she still considered him a friend and one thing about Samara was that she hated seeing her friends hurting. “Fine.” She sighed out. “But you have to answer my question first.”  Josh nodded immediately. 

“Aight, whatever you wanna know.” 

“Why did you do it? What made you cheat on Kiyana?”  oh Josh gulped.  “Josh?” 

“I don’t know. “ He said and Samara sucked her teeth. “I- we were arguing about her not listening to the doctor about not stressing. I just wanted her and Kairo to be okay.” He walked over and sat down on the couch next to her and put his head in his hands.  “You know the same thing happened when she was pregnant with Kehlani.” Neither one of them heard Joe as she entered the house and stood right by the entrance to the living room, listening to their conversation. “Her auntie died and..” He blew out a breath. “She wouldn’t relax, she wouldn’t just stop and not stress. I already have one dead kid. I didn’t want another.” 

Samara nodded, remembering how Kiyana blamed herself for years for the death of Kehlani. “So that’s why you cheated?” Josh scoffed and shook his head. 

“Hell no. I just- I wanted to vent. Everyone around me kept talking about how Kiyana felt and..” He paused and sniffled, wiping his eyes. “I- it’s selfish but damn, Kenneth was like a dad to me too. When Kish and my mom were going through it Ken and Ms Imani welcomed me with open arms. I just wanted to vent to someone who wouldn’t say oh well it’s Kiyana’s dad. And Shanté was there at the right  time. It wasn’t my intention to start the affair, I just wanted someone to talk to and things went too far.” 

Joe let out a sigh and closed his eyes. He couldn’t intervene with Josh and Kiyana nomore. He had already done enough damage by sleeping with Kiyana and truth be told, Josh was his favorite cousin and even if Joe thought that Kiyana should be with him, he didn’t want to hurt his cousin more than he already did. 

“The Grand Marlin.” Samara said after a minute of silence between her and Josh. “He took her to The Grand Marlin.” 

Josh pulled Samara in for a hug and thanked her. “Do not fuck this up again Joshua. I swear on my life I will make sure she fucks every single one of your family members.” Josh sucked his teeth and pushed her away from him. 

“Damn Samara.” She shrugged and pointed towards the front door.

“Go, before she falls in love with him or something.”  Josh nodded and rushed towards the front door, only to be stopped by Joe blocking it. 

“Uce come-on. Don’t do this to me right now. You proved your point already.”  Joe shook his head and put his hands up defensively. 

“I just wanted to apologize to you Josh. You my family and I should have never took it there with your wife.” Josh sucked his teeth. 

“You don’t mean that shit. What you want me to go get my wife back so you can fuck her again.” Josh felt the urge to pummel Joe so he took a deep breath. “ Getcho’ big ass out my way Joseph.” 

“Josh, this is the most serious I've been with you in years. I’m sorry.” Josh narrowed his eyes at Joe. Not believing him in the slightest. But he couldn’t worry about Joe right now, right now he needed to get to Kiyana. 

“Thank you for bringing me here.” Kiyana smiled over at Elijah as he pulled out her chair for her. “I’ve never been here before.” 

“No problem Ms. Jackson. I plan to give you a lot of first time experiences” He winked back as the waiter came over and asked for their drink orders. 

Elijah kept a smile on Kiyana’s face all throughout dinner. And if Kiyana was being honest, this was the best date she had been on in years. 

Her weekly ‘dates’ with Josh were just them going out to dinner, nothing special or spectacular. He stopped making her feel special a long time ago and she had just gone with the flow because she loved him. 

“Hey that’s your ex-husband right?” Elijah’s voice broke her out of her thoughts and she turned her head in the direction he was pointing to see Josh arguing with the maitre’d and pointing in her direction. 

“Oh my god.” She muttered, covering her face with her hands. “This is so embarrassing. Just give me two minutes please.” She said, biting her lip as she stood from the table and walked over to where Josh was making an ass out of himself. 

“All you had to do was let me through dickhead.” He sneered at the man, who was only trying to do his job. 

“Joshua.” Kiyana hissed, grabbing him by the collar of his shirt and dragging him outside of the restaurant. “What are you doing?!” 

“Tryna stop you from making a mistake. I’m so fucking sorry Key.” He whispered, cupping her face in his hands.  “About everything. About Shanté.” He swallowed hard when he saw her flinch at Shanté’s name. “About not sticking up for you at J’s party. About everything.” He repeated and Kiyana started shaking her head. 

“No.” She laughed as tears started to well up in her eyes. “You can’t just come here and ruin my date. You have no right Joshua.” She pushed him away from her. “You cheated on me, there is no apologizing for that, not after the shit I put up with from you and your family for years.” 

“Kiyana please - “ 

“Go home Joshua.” She muttered, blinking her tears away. She was done crying over him. “I’m trying to move on, you need to do the same.” Josh felt as if Kiyana just reached into his chest and pulled his heart out, as she gave him one last look before turning and walking back into the restaurant to continue her date. Leaving him heartbroken and empty. 

🙃

Y'all think Josh can actually win her back or y'all think Kiyana is over him and nothing her can do will fix or change anything. ?

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A/N: Sorry this took two weeks 😭. I was just feeling a bit stuck with this chapter. Hopefully chapter 8 won't take another 2 weeks.

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[lokisprettygirl]

My Love is mine, All mine (18+) (CEO! Daemon Targaryen x Female Reader) (Non Canon Modern AU)

Series Masterlist

Chapter 1

Summary: You dive down the memory lane and think about how you first met the love of your life, your husband, Daemon.

Warning: 18+, smut, mention of rape, insecurities.

Note : This will probably be the most boring thing i have ever written..you are warned. Expect 3-5 parts (or I don't really know yet 😂)

“Ugggh i don't want to be here” Shelly mumbled next to you so you gave her a side eye, she never wanted to be there. There were a couple of guys demonstrating a product targeted towards women, a decorative ring designed for women that could potentially save their life while they were out clubbing or about doing anything literally,

At first look, the ring looked like any other ring, adorned with jewels and glimmering in the light. Although upon closer inspection you could see that it had a hidden compartment under the fake diamond stud.

Inside the compartment was a red button, a single press of which would send an emergency alert to the local authorities as well as several emergency contacts on your phone, not just that but it also shared the precise location on a live moving map.

There was a group of women watching the presentation take place so you took Shelly as you were really intrigued by the product and as well as the guy giving the demonstration.

His name was Daemon, Daemon Targaryen, he was the tallest guy you had ever laid your eyes on, 6’3 to be astute, he had bronde hair- a mix of brown and blonde, and the most intense eyes you had ever witnessed, he was charming and charismatic and it wasn't like you to get attracted so quickly so even you were surprised by your own behaviour that day.

“Sooooo ummm no offense but how does it work? Is it battery operated?” A girl asked him so he picked up the ring and walked towards her,

“Don't worry I won't pop the question to you” he joked and it made everyone laugh including you. He showed her the 2.0 mm charging point inside the ring so she nodded her head..

“But what if the creeps out there recognise the ring?” Another girl asked him so he went back to the table and picked up another ring from the box..

“They won't..every purchase comes with a fresh design.. see for yourself” he gave her the ring so she checked it out and gave it back to him with a nod of approval.

The longer he talked about it though the more people started to leave, people were not interested in buying the ring even though it seemed like something everyone should own, they kept leaving until it was just you and Shelly. That's when Shelly mumbled something in your ear and ran off as well.

You watched Daemon sighing, there was a defeated look on his face that you noticed immediately but since you were still there he didn't stop the pitch. As you raised your hand up he gave you a smile.

The kind of smile that you knew would only bring you trouble..

“How long it stays active after charging..what is the duration?’ you asked him so he looked at another guy with him that you came to know later was his cousin Aemond.

“We are working on it..it stays for 10 hours for now but we are definitely trying to make the duration longer without comprising the size of it”

“10 hours? That's good enough to find someone if they're in trouble or missing” He gave you a smirky smile as you said that. “So are you selling them?” You asked him and you could tell he was excited by the prospect of leaving this place with at least one sale.

“Of Course..it's 10 euros only” he told you so you pulled out your wallet from the purse.

“Cool I'll take three..one for me..for my friend and my mom”

“Great” he clapped his hand together in excitement before he spoke again “We've also developed an app that will allow you to sync the ring with your phone. Once the connection has been established, it will not be interrupted even if your phone gets misplaced or powered off.” he informed you so you nodded.

“All this for 10 euros though? That's..very affordable..do you even make any profit?” you asked him a genuine though a bit intrusive question so he smiled politely.

“That's not a priority at the moment..goal is to give every woman a chance to be safe” he said in big words that you could have interpreted as a marketing gimmick but when you had learned the reason behind why he had invented this thing, you had realized his words were not empty that day.

He made you walk with him towards the station and Aemond excused himself as he wanted to get a drink, it was a warm day in Birmingham that day.

Once he was done cutting the receipt , you grabbed the rings and wished him good luck with the startup but as you were about to walk past him you heard him calling your name again and your heart skipped a beat.

“Yes?” You turned around to look at him so he hesitated for a moment before he stepped towards you,

“Ummm apologies if this sounds inappropriate but how old are you?” you gave him a smile as he said that. You'd pass out if he was intending to ask you out on a date.

“Just short 21” his face fell down as you said that so you crossed your arms..

“Ohhh” he let out a sigh, there was a look of disappointment plastered all over his features.

“Why did you ask? ” You couldn't help but let out a nervous giggle so he gave you a tight lipped smile.

“I .. nevermind.. thanks for buying our product..call us if you face any difficulties..stay safe yeah??”

You felt disheartened as he said that as for once in your life you were really hoping a man would ask you out, for once you found yourself being more into a man then he was into you.

Later on you had learned that the only reason he didn't ask you out that day was because he thought you were too young for him, he was twenty eight at the time and he didn't want to come across as a predator and a creep by dating a young girl in college. That went against everything he stood for.

But perhaps it was meant to be with you two because..Eight years later you were sitting in a restaurant waiting for him to get there so you could celebrate your four year wedding anniversary and he was late, as he always was at times but you understood that, he was a busy man.

What started as a small, humble operation was now a multimillion-euro company, all thanks to the vision and determination he had shown to make the world a safer place for women.

“God I'm sorry sweetheart” his voice made you snap out of your thoughts so you got up and hugged him tightly, the expensive cologne on the side of his neck comforted you immediately,

“It's okay..I just got here” you mumbled softly so he puckered his lips and shook his head.

“Liar”

He kissed you and made you sit back down again, at times like this he felt like a complete arse, sure he was doing this for both of you but he often felt as if he was making you feel neglected on occasions when he should have been with you, especially after everything you had done for him.

You were there for him when he had nothing in his name, when he was that eccentric bloke that went to women's colleges, workplaces and schools to sell a ring that nobody believed in at first..he had seen the worst of the life with you and in those moments he had decided that he was going to give you the best this world could offer you, he doused you in lavish gifts and fancy lifestyle, foreign trips and what not but deep down he knew all you needed from him was him. Just him.

After dinner and a few drinks as you both reached home you already had your hands on each other, that was one thing that never changed in your relationship with him, he was as passionate with you as he was the first night he had taken you like that, with his success and fame came several temptations on his way and you were not the most secure person, the older you got the more insecure you became of your looks, especially because of how he was desired so greatly by women younger than you but he made you feel as if you'd always be the only woman he'd desire in this way.

“Gods i have missed you babylove” he whispered in your ear before he trailed his lips down to your neck, he was on a work trip for a week and had just returned yesterday so the feeling was definitely mutual.

You loosened his tie while he unzipped your dress and picked you up to sit you down on the dresser, your fingers quickly worked the buttons of his shirt while his lips latched onto your neck.

“You're lovely you know that right? I don't think I told you how stunning you looked today”

You smiled sheepishly as he cupped your cheeks and kissed you while he murmured sweet honey into your ears.

“You did…twice actually” he smiled before he slipped your underwear down your legs, at times like this he couldn't really contain himself. Especially when he was away from you for days, the urge to get back to you and fuck you senseless would always eat him up. He had met you for the first time when you were just twenty one, and he always remembered you because you believed in his invention, you bought that ring that day and that memory was seared in his heart.

But you were too young for him, too innocent, so he didn't make his move that day. However the fate wasn't allowing him to move on from that encounter so it kept bringing you back to him until he had given into this feeling.

Next morning you woke up feeling tired but relaxed at the same time as he had completely worn you out. Nights like this were really affirming for you for several different reasons. He had already left for work, you grabbed your phone and called him but it went straight to voicemail so you put the phone down and sighed. Since you had your day off and had nothing much to do today you decided to call Shelly and your other friends to go for a brunch date.

Daemon was tired too that day and all he wanted to do was get back home early for once and surprise you since it was your day off. However he stepped into a silent house and an empty bedroom so he sighed and laid down on the bed with his business suit still on his body. He had organized the annual office party tomorrow so he knew he wouldn't get any peace moving forward.

He pulled out his phone to see if there was a text from you but there was nothing and he didn't want to disturb you if you were out shopping so he put it down and closed his eyes, it didn't take him long to drift into sleep.

As you returned home, you found Daemon passed out on the bed. Despite his exhausted state, he still managed to look adorable with his mouth open, that was one of his endearing qualities. You removed your heels, climbed onto the bed, and gently tucked his hair behind his ears. The sudden touch caused him to shift and wake up

“Hey theree” you mumbled softly as you climbed on top of him so he rubbed his eyes and gave you a smile.

“One day I come home early and you're not here to kiss me first thing” he feigned a hurt look so you gave him a pout..

“Sorry i didn't tell you, I was out for a brunch with Shelly”

"That's okay darling, I was jesting" Daemon said as he caressed your cheek with his fingers "How was your brunch?”

"Good, it's been long since we met so we had a couple of drinks" you said as you slowly undid his tie, you didn't understand how he was able to sleep like this.

“Sounds fun..” his smile dropped so you caressed his cheek with your thumb to bring his eyes back to you.

“What Is it? Work stuff?” you asked him softly.

“Mmmm ..I just..it's not that, i came home today and you weren't here and I just..felt sooo lonely..I'm not whining I'm just..is that how you feel when I'm not here for you?” He asked you softly so you leaned down and kissed his forehead.

“What do you want me to say?”

“Start with the truth and then you can sweeten it up to preserve my fragile ego” you chuckled as he said that

“I miss you of course.. would i want you to come back home like a normal guy once the work hour ends? Of Course i would but you're not a normal guy, you were born to do something great with your life and I'm here to support you all the way to the end..”

His eyes teared up as you said that so he flipped you around and laid you underneath him, you took his jacket off as he kissed your neck,

“I couldn't have done any of this without you”

“That's not true..you were doing this even before you met me..you would have done this with or without me–” he placed his thumb on your lips before you could go down this road,

“No you don't understand..you don't quite understand what you mean to me..” he mumbled tenderly as he kissed you over and over again, his lips barely brushed over yours as he kept mumbling between each kiss.

“Mmmm I think you made it clear when you made me your missus”

Your arms wrapped around his neck as he quickly rode your dress up and entered you swiftly,

“I love you.. and I'm sorry for being so absent –”

“It's okay..as long as you come back home, as long as you're mine and mine alone..it's all okay”

The next day at the office party you got all dolled up and hung around his arm throughout the evening. The party was the same as every year, he went all out to show his appreciation for the people who worked for TargSecure. People loved him, there was no questioning that, especially the women, he was extra attentive to their needs, they got higher pay and better leave days, their safety was the first priority for the company as Daemon wouldn't have it otherwise.

You saw Aemond and his wife Emma there so you spent your time with her while Daemon was busy with the employees, everything was the same as the past years.

However, there was this one little problem, one so insignificant and probably a figment of your imagination. And that small problem was your husband's young hot new secretary Sheena Mulaney that you knew was upto no good.

❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️👀👀

Taglist

@anukulee @erebus-et-eigengrau @daenny-t @123forgottherest @mcufan72

[gothamite-rambler]

Batfamily Mitzvah

Context: I learned about Bruce is canon Jewish because his mother was and this is if Kate dragged Bruce to a family bar mitzvah.

Kate is reading a People magazine.

Kate: Bruce, do you know Linda?

Bruce (sorting through paperwork): The crazy family member? That doesn’t narrow it down, does it?

Kate: Not really. She’s our third cousin, but she goes by Aunt Linda. She’s the one who hit her husband with her car, and when he survived, they stayed together.

Bruce: That Linda... I’ve always hated her. I remember she used to insult my mom for not marrying the right man.

Kate: That's the one. We all hate her at this point. Anyways her son's son—

Bruce (correcting tone): Her grandson?

Kate rolled her eyes.

Kate: Yes, smartass. They’re throwing him a bat mitzvah in a few weeks, and they invited me. You’re coming.

Bruce: I’m busy that day.

Kate: I haven’t told you when it is.

Bruce: My schedule is full when it comes to visiting 'Aunt' Linda and her insane family.

Kate: My bad, cuzzo. You misunderstood. That wasn’t an invitation; it was a command. I’m not going alone.

Bruce: Why not?

Kate (looking up from her magazine): I’m a lesbian, and they’re very religious. Linda will be there and has made it very clear that “Oh, it’s just a phase, darling. You’ll find the right man!”

Bruce: Why am I coming, though? I don’t like her, and I don’t want to hear her voice again.

Kate: I’m bringing you so she can ask why you’ve adopted those kids and aren’t married yet, how one of them died and then came back to life, why you’re dating a former bank robber, and why you only have one biological son. Tsk, tsk, naughty, naughty, naughty. I told her some things about you in the group chat, and she’s already asked a lot of evasive questions... about you. Make sure you have a good suit; that’s basically all you wear.

Bruce: Oh, okay... I have no say in the matter. Got it. Fine.

Kate (dryly): There’s the master detective you pride yourself on being.

Bruce (already regretting this): What time are we supposed to be there?

Kate: We have to be at the synagogue early in the morning because it’s on a Sunday—you are going into the synagogue; I don’t want to hear it.

Bruce groaned, rubbing his temples. He never seemed to get along with churches, but he knew he had no say in the matter when it came to Kate and her persistence.

Kate: After that, the party is at three. I hate talking to so many of them; we can sneak off, have a drink, whatever you want to do, and show back up at four. Are you bringing the kids?

Bruce (sarcastically): Was that a question I'm allowed to answer? Thank you so much for allowing me to respond.

Kate: I can be nice like that.

Bruce (aggravated): No, they’re not going. I don’t even want to bring Damian. They wouldn’t like that side of the family.

Kate: Hmm, I never asked—are you practicing Judaism?

Bruce: Nope.

Kate: Why? Aunt Martha was Jewish; by extension, you’re Jewish.

Bruce: That’s not true.

Kate: You’ve studied numerous forms of fighting, weapons, and even opera, but you don’t know that if your mother is Jewish, you’re Jewish, too? Damian, however, is ethnically Jewish. Your dad doesn’t factor in... were you unaware?

Bruce glares at Kate, refusing to answer.

Kate: Oh my goodness! Yes, I knew something you didn’t know!

Bruce (rubbing his forehead): Yup, I’ll give you that. But for your information, I was never raised with a Jewish upbringing.

Kate: Seriously, I thought they’d do something—

Bruce: They died when I was eight in an alley. You lose the spirit of anything when that happens!

Kate (sighing): You use that excuse too much.

Bruce: My parents died!

Kate (silent for a second): My sister is clinically insane, and one of your sons shook hands with God. It’s not a competition.

Bruce: The way Jason tells it, he met Satan for some time.

Kate: He’s joking; were you unaware of that as well?

Bruce refused to respond, pretending to read a document on his desk.

Kate (laughing): Are they aware you’re Jewish?

Bruce: Yes, but again, I’m not practicing. So it’s like... yes, but no.

Kate: Oh, so me. Cool.

Kate returned to reading, while Bruce looked over a case about Scarecrow.

Bruce (desperate): Can I pay you—

Kate (firmly): You’re going to this party; money won’t change that.

Bruce (half-sarcastically): I just love these special moments we share.

Kate: Aww, same here, cuzzo.

Batfamily mitzvah -> pt 2

[judes-hoe]

Family Time ~ TAA66

Parrings ~ Trent Alexander-Arnold x reader

Summary ~ Trent knows your parents and siblings, but what happens when he goes to your grandparents(dad’s side) house for Christmas, and meets the rest of your crazy family.

Warnings ~ none

A/N ~ just to clarify that this will be kinda about my dads side of the family and I will be using my family’s names, Sid you don’t want to read it don’t, also I do live in the united states so it’ll kinda be like you and Trent going to visit for the weekend. Also she wanted me to tag her and I said I would @formulalfc <3

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You and Trent were currently on your way to your grandmas house.

You had asked Trent if he could come with you for a weekend to fly to the United States, so you could do Christmas with your family. It’s be his first time meeting, your dad’s side of the family. You’ll admit that it was a little hectic sometimes, I mean your dad has 3 brothers so, you have a lot of cousins. But Trent had asked klopp to take the weekend to go and that he’d be back Sunday in the afternoon. So klopp agreed and here you are, in a car with your sister and her husband, driving to your grandparents.

Your sister and her husband were talking so I look over at Trent. “You nervous” you asked Trent taking his hand to hold. “Yeah a little, you always talk about how hectic it can get” he says with a smile. “It’s fine they’ll love you” you spoke with a smile. “My grandma loves everyone” you said.

Trent knows your family, like mom and dad and your sibling. He’s never met any of your grandparents, so when you said like your uncles and their kids will be there and if everyone is there, they’ll probably be like 15 people in your grandparents house.

~~~

After about an hour, you finally arrived to your grandparents house. “When we get in I’ll introduce you to everyone, then we can just sit on the couch and chill” you told him, he just nodded back. You walked into the house after your sister Savannah, and her husband Boyd.

When you and Trent take your shoes off you see your mom and dad first. “Hey mom, hey dad” you spoke hugging them both, then they went and hugged Trent. I walk over to my grandma who was looking for something. “Hi nene, this is my boyfriend Trent” you said hugging her. “Hey my lovely granddaughter, nice to meet you Trent” she said hugging him as well to which he hugged back with a smile. “Nice to meet you” he said softly.

You walk over to the dining room table we’re most of your uncles and aunts were. “Hi everyone” you spoke going around and hugging them. “This is my boyfriend Trent” you said to which they all said hi and said their names.

“Okay I’ll take you to meet all my cousins come here” you said and Trent follows you like a dog. “So this is, Anissa and her boyfriend Ethan, this is Anissa brother Jalen and his Wife Kalyne, this is Anissa and Jalen’s brother Logan, This is Ellah and her brother Gio, then this is Christian and his sisters jewl, Avery, and raven” you spoke going around introducing Trent to all of your cousins. “Nice to meet all of your” he said.

After you had introduced Trent to everyone, you took a seat on the couch and he sat next to you. “So what do you think, I know it’s a lot of people” you look at him laughing softly. “It’s a lot of people but they seem cool” he said kissing you cheek.

You and Trent sat there on the couch, you held his hand between the both of you. Your cousins coming to talk once in awhile. “Dinner ready if you wanna eat” my grandma shouts out. “Do you wanna go eat” you asked Trent. “If you want I’ll get food and you can eat some stuff off my plate, I know klopp probably doesn’t want you eating kinda unhealthy food” you spoke before he could answer. “That’s fine, but I love when you pay attention too what I can and can’t eat my love” he said kissing you before getting up.

You got a plate of food, before sitting next to Trent at a table with all your cousins. “You’re not gonna eat Trent” my dad had called out seeing Trent didn’t have a plate. “No, I got a game the day after we get back to England so coach doesn’t want me to really eat anything that might not be good for me” he told my dad. “But I’m gonna eat some food off of her plate” he added. “Alright bud I was just checking” my dad said sitting at the table next to us.

While we all ate, Trent ate some stuff off your plate. You and Trent went to go and sit on the couch as your grandma said it was time to open gifts. Trent had pulled you in his lap so there was room for other people. All the other kids got fifty dollars while younger kids got 4-5 gifts.

Your sister, her husband, you, and Trent all said our goodbyes and got in the car to head back to my sisters house.

After and hour car ride, you and Trent went to the guest bedroom, changing into pajamas before getting into bed. “So how’d you like meeting the rest of my family” you asked him while rubbing up and down his arm. “It was nice, they seem nice and chill, but god I love your family drama” he said giving you a kiss after. “Alright let’s go to sleep my love we have a very early flight” he said kissing my forehead before pulling you close to his chest. “I love you” you said kissing right over his heart. “I love you too princess” he mumbled in your hair.

~~~~~~~~

[selfproclaimedunicorn]

⭐ for the ask <3

Gonna talk about my boy Aemon & Silverwing, specifically in the chapters for his first POV (Things Fall Apart, & We Remember)

Silverwing was meant for him. Ella said so all the time, and even his princely father had mentioned it! If no one was going to take him to her before the winter snows came, then he would just have to claim her alone. Like in the stories that mandia told him about when she had claimed Vermithor.

- Things Fall Apart, Aemon 1A

So that's the whole thing there: Aemon was born to claim Silverwing. He's been excited about dragons for as long as he can remember because "well, I specificially am supposed to have Silverwing. Everyone says so!"

Aemon is 7 by the time these chapters roll around, which is about the age he's heard about his cousins (Rhaenyra & Laenor) claiming their dragons, & circumstances keep popping up that see his being brought into the mountains to claim her being delayed. His older brother gets married, his dad gets put on Runestone House Arrest for some sort of shenanigans at the wedding, his sister-in-law gets pregnant, its late autumn & they have to get ready to move out of the way of the coming snows, his cousins Willam & Yarwyck are both having weddings planned--he very much thinks everyone is forgetting about him. So naturally, this means he has to take matters into his own hands. And this taking matters into his own hands is, unfortunately, how he's in the right place at the right time to see his mom get murdered.

It can be hard to notice, especially when Aemon has been a little hater from day 1, but he's got as much of their dad in him as Ella has. His "I need to concoct an elaborate but believable lie & then run off into the mountains on my own in order to get what I want/deserve" was 100% premeditated. It wasn't a great plan & there were easier ways to do this (see: tell literally anyone his concerns & they'll bring him to go claim Silverwing), but it was premeditated. It also fully hinged on everyone being so impressed with him that they ignored him lying & being an unsupervised 7-year-old to keep him from getting in trouble. Daemon Targaryen, you are the father.

Aemon is going to be fully, 1000000% on board for his big sister's shenanigans in the current WIP chapter. Sibling Gremlin Time

“Sōvēs!” She trilled, high and clear and more at peace than the first time Aemon heard her that day, and gracefully pulled herself into the air. He yelled as he leaned so forward in the saddle that the horns dug into his chest. Aemon winced, and then sat back up. He had expected the buildup and the heavy drag from Vermithor, but now that he was up here he wouldn’t trade any part of the experience for the world. Silverwing was faster than Vermithor in every sense, and she was everything and more than what he’d dreamt about in all the years he’d been waiting for this moment. Aemon started laughing, uncontrollable and giddy.

- We Remember, Aemon 1B

At this particular point in the story, Ella has flown off on Vermithor to locals unknown & Silverwing is being emo about her missing husband. But then here comes the little boy who's loved her his whole life & comes to see her (under the supervision of dragon keepers) & whispers to her about how they're best friends (she's not gonna fight it, he's very polite) & he's doing the whole claiming song-and-dance. And even for her it's correct. Like "yes, this is my personal little boy. He is sad right now & he needs me because he said we are best friends & I haven't had one of those since Alyssane. The time for us to be a unit is now, the planets are finally in correct alignment for me to have a new rider." (What can I say, Silverwing likes them slightly pathetic)

Silverwing has known Aemon since he was a baby & he claims her when he's a mourning 7-year-old, so she's his dragon mom now. And they don't fill the hole left by the ones they're missing (his mom for Aemon & her mate for Silverwing), but the hole isn't as deep anymore. And even when Ella comes back with Vermithor & they're eventually able to be in the same place again, Silverwing is still dragon mom, because that's her boy.

[snelbz]

Better or Worse {16}

Nessian. Angst. Modern AU.

@snelbz x @theladyofdeath collab

Better or Worse Masterlist

Sera Marigold Draeven is the most beautiful baby I’ve ever seen in my entire life.

I’m ninety-five percent positive I thought the same thing when Nyx was born, but it can’t be helped. I’ve got the world’s cutest niece and nephew.

It’s been a week since Sera was born and I’ve been wrapped around her finger since the moment Elain laid her in my arms. She’s awake, for once, and her eyes, hazel, just like her daddy’s, are wide open and gazing up at me.

“Was I ever that little?”

The question comes from my left, where Nyx is peering over the arm of the couch, still not quite sure what to think about his new cousin.

“You were even smaller than Sera, bub,” Rhys answers from the kitchen. Nyx drags his gaze from the baby to his dad. “You were born prematurely.”

His little dark eyebrows knit together. “What does prematchery mean?”

“It means,” Feyre jumps in, rolling her eyes at her husband, “that you were so excited to be with us that you came out of mommy’s tummy early.”

“Oh,” he says, nodding and dragging the word out. He looks back at Sera. “So she didn’t want to come out of Aunt Elain’s tummy?”

“No, she most certainly did not,” Elain replies from her seat in the recliner.

I chuckle as Nyx’s brows raise. 

“She’s stubborn just like her mom and aunts,” Cassian chimes in.

I shoot him a look as Elain rolls her eyes, but I can’t help but look at him fondly. He’s watching Sera with such love and adoration that my eyes line with tears. His eyes meet mine and his smile softens even more.

“Can we take her home with us?” Nyx asks, curiously, genuinely. 

“No,” Feyre laughs, “but we’re going to see her all the time. Don’t you worry.”

Rhysand tosses an arm around Cassian’s shoulders and leads him into the kitchen. I take that as a sure sign that my brother-in-law is getting hangry and wants Cassian to put the steaks on the grill as soon as possible. 

Azriel stays. It seems he can’t get enough of his baby girl.

I look back down at my niece just as she gives me the biggest of yawns. It’s ridiculously adorable.  

I stopped trying not to allow myself to get jealous. After meeting with Gwyn this week, we talked about how jealousy is a natural reaction and trying to reject that jealousy will only bring anxiety and depression. Sure, there is an obsessive amount of jealousy that’s important to stay away from, but the kind of longing and want and emptiness that I feel… Turns out, that’s normal.

And although there’s nothing I can do about that feeling, I must say that my niece is absolute perfection. The second I look down into her beautiful round face, all I feel is love and protection. 

I’ve been talking to Feyre a lot in the last week, since I told her about our past, and she’s been an amazing listener and support. She recommended that I tell Elain, which I did, and just like Feyre, there was no judgment or condemnation, only love. Their reactions had only made me wish I had said something sooner. 

Even Azriel pulled me aside and held me for a long while, crying alongside me, just like I know he had done for Cassian. Azriel may be the quietest of us all, but he loves and feels greater than us all, too. 

Half of me wants to go help Cassian with dinner, but the other half of me - the half of me that refuses to give up my niece - is the one that wins. 

Rhysand comes back into the room, only to whisper something in Nyx’s ear before the toddler runs toward the kitchen, giggling. I give my brother-in-law a curious look, but he only plops down next to Feyre on the couch and bites her earlobe. They’re so cute it’s sickening, but that’s nothing new.  

I hear the screen door open and close, knowing that means Cassian has taken the steaks out to the grill, and settle in to get more snuggles…

Until I smell something.

Sniffing twice, I look up and catch Elain’s eye. “I think she has something for you.”

Chuckling softly, Elain begins to extract herself from her seat, but Azriel presses a kiss to her forehead. “I’ll get her. You relax.”

“She probably needs to feed.” She presses a hand to her chest and adds with a wince, “Badly.”

Feyre chuckles knowingly and once again, I’m hit with a surge of jealousy that I’m unable to stop. Hearing my sisters talk about all aspects of their pregnancies, both good and bad, only makes me yearn for it more. Even things like engorged breasts, late night feedings, and diaper changes don’t seem so bad when I look down at the precious angel in my arms.

One day, I promise myself. It’ll happen for us one day.

Azriel scoops Sera from my arms, promising to bring her back down to feed after she’s changed. Rhys, despite the fact that Cass only took the steaks outside minutes before, goes outside to check on dinner, mumbling something about how starving he is, and to make sure Nyx is behaving. We know Cass is watching him, but you can never be too careful with a toddler and a hot grill.

When it’s just us, Elain sighs, pressing a hand to her tender breasts. “It’s only been two hours and my body is screaming at me to feed her.”

“I’ll be honest, having my supply dry up when Nyx was a few months old was frustrating, but relieving,” Feyre said, tucking her legs beneath her as she drapes an arm over the back of the couch. “I wish I could have fed him for longer, but he did fine on formula, and my boobs were screaming for a break.”

That jealousy rears its ugly head again and I do my best to ignore it as they discuss the merits of breastfeeding vs formula, unable to add to the conversation. Instead, I think about how far Cassian and I have come, how happy we are, and how relieved that I can talk about these things with my sisters once again. I hadn’t realized I zoned out until Feyre says my name.

“Sorry, what?” I ask, blinking out of a memory from our vacation. She and Elain are looking at me like they know exactly what was on my mind.

“How are yours feeling?” Elain asks, color blooming on her cheeks. Feyre is trying not to laugh as she glances down to my chest.

I feel myself blush. I’d told my sisters about my new piercings when we returned and they both didn’t believe me until I’d proved it—through a shirt, of course. “Great now. Wonderful actually.”

Elain’s cheeks turn even brighter as she shakes her head. “I can’t believe you did that. I walked in on Azriel the other day while he was on the phone with Cass. He is, uh, very vocal about his love for your new jewelry.”

Unable to contain her laughter any further, Feyre cackles. “I, too, have walked in on a similar conversation.” Her eyes soften, even though her grin remains. “It sounds like you two are doing really well, Nes.”

The softest joy forms in my core. “We are. Really, really well. I feel like we’re in the honeymoon stage all over again, and I know that we’re going to keep having our fair share of trials, but…” I shrug. “I feel like our relationship is stronger than it’s been in years. Since we got married.”

My sisters share a look before they look back to me. 

“We’re happy for you,” Elain says, and maybe it’s the new-mom hormones, but she’s crying.

Which makes Azriel frown as he walks back down the stairs with a freshly-changed newborn. “What’s wrong? I was bringing her right back.”

She waves him off as she takes their daughter and he leans down to give her a sweet, chaste kiss before heading out on the patio with Cass, Rhys and Nyx.

Elain was just putting a milk-drunk Sera in her swing when Rhys, Az, and Nyx came in, the former carrying an aluminum foil covered platter. He grumbles, “The chef says we have to let these rest for at least twelve minutes before eating them.”

“You’ll live, you big, Illyrian baby,” Feyre says, rolling her eyes.

“Starving,” he mutters, heading into the kitchen.

Az chuckles and follows him, while Nyx hurries over to Feyre, motioning for her to lean down so he could whisper something to her. He shoots me a look as he murmurs in her ear and then shot off again, back into the kitchen.

Feyre was shaking her head as I ask, “What was that about?”

“Nothing, he’s just silly.” She smiles, but I couldn’t miss the mischief in her eyes.

I narrow my own, but realize someone was missing. Turning towards the kitchen, I holler, “Where’s Cass?”

A pause in the conversation and beat of silence follow. It was Azriel that answers. “Cleaning the grill.”

Bullshit. The man turns the heat up and lets it char the inside for an extra twenty minutes after he’s done, leaving nothing ash to scoop out. After a decade, you learn things about a person. I get up and head for the patio, wondering what he’s up to.

“Aunt Nesta, have I shown you my new Lightning McQueen?”

I turn and find Nyx right behind me, a bright red car in hand.

“Wow,” I say, trying my best to act like the tiny, red  car is the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen. “That’s awesome, buddy.”

“Wanna see him drive?”

Well, I can’t say no to that. “Of course.”

I expect us to do a quick trial run of the toy car, but we end up sitting on the hardwood, attempting to have Lightning McQueen outrun every other toy car that Nyx brought with him.

Which is a ton.

Thinking it surely must be twelve minutes by now, I call for my sisters, but neither one of them answer.  It’s Azriel that comes around the corner, cradling Sera in his arms.

“The table is set.” It’s all he says before he turns on his heels and disappears.

Before I can get to my feet, Nyx is running off, heading for the kitchen, leaving me in the dust.

Cassian has suddenly reappeared, along with Rhys and Az, and the table is indeed set, but now my sisters are nowhere to be seen.

“Elain wanted to show Feyre the vegetable garden,” Azriel offers as I look around.

Looking between them all, I ask, “Right before we eat?”

“I made a salad.” Cassian is busy cutting Nyx’s steak before plating it. “They were checking to see if anything was ripe enough to go in.”

“Oh.” My suspicions settle, but I still feel like something is off. When my sisters come back in though, everything seems normal. Elain deemed two tomatoes ready, but she’d rather save them for salsa one night this week, so Cassian continues as he planned and a few minutes later, everyone was devouring the delicious meal.

I can’t help but look around the table, that unsettled feeling remaining in the pit of my stomach. Cassian meets my eye and smiles from across the table, but he almost seems anxious.

Which makes me anxious. 

“Not hungry?”

I blink, realizing I’d just been pushing my vegetables around. The sound of Cassian’s voice hardly breaks me out of it. 

“I just…” I hesitate, not wanting to offend anyone, knowing this food is delicious. I clear my throat. “It’s hot. I have a sore in my mouth…don’t want to agitate it.”

Cassian lifts a brow as he takes a bite of his steak. He hums, pleased with the flavor, with the texture, and I’m amazed that that alone turns me on.

And makes me want to eat the beautiful meal he’s prepared.

And him.

However, we’re in the presence of our siblings and nephew, so I behave myself and start to eat.

Much to my culinary husband’s dismay, I don’t eat steak often and when I do, I sometimes like to add steak sauce. He considers this blasphemy, I consider it enhancing the flavor. Standing from my seat, I ask, “Az, do you have A1 in the fridge?”

“I’ll get it,” Cassian announces, standing and rounding the table, pressing a kiss to the top of my head. At the same time, he not so subtly pushes me back into my chair.

I stare after him, eyes narrowed. “Okay,” I say, quietly as I dab the sides of my mouth. “He’s acting weird.”

“I don’t think he’s acting weird,” Rhysand says, his mouth full. “And I would know. I’ve seen his weird.”

“Remember that one time,” Azriel begins, “when we all went out on a triple date in high school and he was so nervous that he sweat through his shirt and knocked over the water pitcher? That was weird.” 

“Or that time, at the football banquet, when he was so nervous that he ate half of everything on the table and spent the time he was meant to be on stage in the bathroom, getting sick,” Rhysand adds.

I blink, trying my best to follow their conversation. “All you two are doing is proving me right.”

They don’t get the chance to respond. Cassian comes back into the room with a bottle of steak sauce and lovingly sets it down next to me.

I swear his hands are shaking.

My eyes remain on his massive frame until it’s plopped in the seat across from me. He picks up his fork and stabs a piece of steak, and when he looks back up at me, he frowns. 

“Aren’t you going to use that?”

I hadn’t even realized I’d been gripping the steak sauce, its cap still on. Without another word, I unscrew the top and create a little puddle on my plate. I swear he’s holding his breath as I dip the meat in the sauce and take a bite. 

Yes. I’m a true abomination of a chef’s wife. 

We continue on eating but the air remains thick. I think I’m making it thick with my own mindless worrying, but I can’t help it. I can’t help but think that there’s something going on that I’m oblivious to, and that doesn’t sit well with me. 

Nonetheless, I try not to let my mind wander. I eat, even though I taste nothing and wish to leave the room….or have a drop of alcohol. 

Alcohol would be a blessing, something to ease the anxiety flooding every inch of my being. 

Time goes slowly but I finish what’s on my plate, and my family that surrounds me finishes theirs with lively conversation. 

I stare at my empty plate, wondering why I feel so insecure, so lost. Surely I’m not so fragile that a simple case of anxiety paralyzes me. 

Fuck.

Who am I kidding?

Of course, I am. 

I put my silverware on top of my plate and fold my napkin, placing it on top of it all like a bow. My eyes meet Elain’s, who is frowning, which makes my rise to my feet. 

“Can I take anyone’s plate?” I ask, forcing a smile.

Apparently Azriel was in the middle of talking, because now everyone is looking at me with a frown. I take my plate and everyone who surrounds me, and head towards the kitchen.

“What’s wrong?”

I whirl around and look at my husband, who’s leaning against the threshold. I can’t read the look on his face, which is…odd. I’ve always been good at gauging what he’s feeling, even more so in the past few months. He wears his feelings for all to see. There’s a cross between nerves and something else I can’t name in his eyes, something that sets me even more on edge than before.

I hesitate, and the silence around me has me feeling like the walls are closing in. I notice Nyx shift in his seat uncomfortably and hurry out of the room before I do something even more embarrassing, like have a full on mental breakdown in front of my family.

Even though I think the breakdown has already begun.

I’m in the kitchen when his heavy footsteps sound behind me. I place my plate in the sink with shaky hands, and then his arms are around me, pulling my back against him. He kisses my cheek, then my neck, gently and soothingly. 

“I did something to upset you,” he says quietly, as I close my eyes and try my best to take a deep breath. In through my nose, out through my mouth. 

“I can’t read you,” I say, “and it’s making me anxious.”

I don’t deny it, don’t tell him that there’s nothing wrong and everything is fine, even though I want to, even though it’s something I once would have done without a second thought. Instead, I let out the truth, let out my emotions. 

“You’re acting strange, and I feel like I did something to make you act strange,” I continue, when he says nothing. 

When he continues to say nothing, I feel like I’m going to puke. When I spin around, nothing comes out, my anxiety that was turning into anger slowly starts to dissipate as I see the crease between his brows. 

“I wasn’t trying to be weird,” he says, taking my hands. “I was just trying to…”

His words fade away, and he seems to be at a loss, which is also weird for Cassian. I shake my head, exasperated, “Cass, what the hell’s going on?” 

He sighs, all the breath leaving him. “Look, I wanted to make tonight special, and the last thing I wanted was to get you all worked up, but now I feel like I failed in that area, and I feel bad because you’re fucking stressed, which is the last thing I wanted.”

The words rush out of him and I finally realize that my husband is anxious, too. About what? I don’t know, but I do know that something is on his mind. 

Before I can say anything more, he’s pulling me towards the backdoor. “I wasn’t able to finish everything I had planned,” he says. “It’s been kinda hard sneaking out all afternoon without you knowing, but Rhys and Az have been a huge help. Nyx, too, although there were times where he did more harm than good considering, you know, he’s a toddler.” My confusion grows as he chuckles, but when he opens the backdoor and we step onto the porch, I’m suddenly speechless.

Ten years ago, at a family dinner very similar to this, Cassian asked me to marry him. The three of them lived in a shared house off campus at VU and though that house has been long gone for years, it’s like I’ve stepped back in time.

It was never the most romantic place to be, but so many of our early memories were made in that house, in that backyard. In the span of an afternoon, Elain and Azriel’s backyard has been transformed. There are string lights and candles and music playing, with the purple, silver, and black coloring of Velaris University scattered everywhere. Even a few touches from the fraternity Cassian spent a few years in, including, to my chagrin, a keg off the side of the porch. A path of candles line the walkway, leading to where a small wrought iron table and chairs sit in the corner by the fence. Atop that table is a lone red rose.

“Cassian,” I breathe, unable to find the words as I gaze around us.

Taking my hand, he leads me down the porch stairs and towards the table, just like he did all those years ago.

“I kept trying to find ways to top my marriage proposal,” he begins, stopping in front of the table, “and there are probably a million ways that are more romantic than this, but I figured… It worked out so well the first time, so we may as well relive the moment.” A sound comes out of me that falls somewhere between a laugh and a sob, but both are joyful. Cassian grins. “Nesta, I love you. I love you now, and I loved you then. Every moment that I’ve spent by your side has been a blessing and the past year has proven to me that your love isn’t something I’m willing to take for granted. I want you to know unequivocally how deeply, hopelessly in love with you I am. I can think of no better way to do that then to stand before our families and the Cauldron and declare my love for you again.”

He pulls something from his pocket and drops to one knee. A surprised laugh breaks free as I cover my mouth with my right hand. My right hand because my left is in his.

“Marry me again, Nes.”

A simple silver band, inlaid with diamonds is held between his fingers. The twin to my wedding band, save for the tiny, red stones, alternating after every few diamonds. They flash in the lights, looking like fire and catching the eye.

I nod, because I can’t say a word. I nod so hard that I nearly give myself a headache, but it’s all well worth it. He slides the ring onto my finger, and I don’t realize how hard I’m crying until he’s on his feet and his lips are on mine. 

I hear cheering from the porch. I haven’t even realized everyone has been watching, but their joy consumes me, making me cry harder. 

We’ve come so far.

In a matter of months, we’ve come so far. I can’t believe that we were ever in such a bad spot, that we let our marriage become so awful, but looking at us now…it’s all ancient history. Never again.

[eternalsams]

To help your boredom I was thinking a family headcanon with my favorite 4 boys from top gun maverick Jake, Bradley, Bob (if you want) and Mickey on like what having a family would be like with them

Feel free to ignore this

Love ya

Okay, this is cute but I think I'll need to change some things a bit if you let me. It's still with the boys and the family plot but... rearranged. Hope you enjoy!

TW: mentions of divorced parents (wrongly called "broken family"), mentions of unprotected sex

Jake "Hangman" Seresin

when you told him your parents wanted to meet him, he'd been surprised. he wasn't really the type of guy you want your parents to meet, but you've been dating for a couple of months and he could feel himself start to deeply fall in love

when he first met them, he could practically feel his heart beating it's way out of his chest. he was so nervous.

your parents noticed how uncomfortable he was at first and tried to make him at ease, even though your dad wanted to joke around and told him he'd get the shotgun out if he ever hurt you. he didn't joke around.

your parents really liked Jake and often called whenever they knew you and Jake were off work

with you, Jake learned what in-laws should really be and he couldn't wait to pass a ring on your finger to officially call them his in-law family

Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw

before dating you, Bradley met some of his girlfriends' parents but he never found what he thought he needed, a big new family

the holidays came after you just celebrated the three months of your relationship, this was still very new. you still needed to discover a lot about each other, and the three little words had been uttered only a couple of weeks ago.

when he told you he wanted to spend the holidays with you and your family, you were more than surprised. never a guy you dated asked to meet your parents asap. but he was the most surprised when you told him about your broken family.

divorced parents and an absent father was not the family Bradley expected. you spoke so highly of your family all the time, he thought you had loving parents with 3 siblings, minimum. but you were an only child raised by a divorced mother.

when he met your mom, she immediately reminded him of his own. and he realized at that moment how similar you two were. both longing for an absent father and getting unconditional love from an amazing mother.

and when you both came back to your place after your little trip, and he saw how much you already missed the warmth of your mom that Bradley promised himself to give you your own family, with a loving husband and father

Mickey "Fanboy" Garcia

Mickey came from a big family, you already knew that, he told you. what he didn't tell you was that he had many nephews and nieces.

the first time you joined his family for the holidays, you had to arrive early to get some rest, so you only saw his parents. but the next day...

his older sister arrived first, greeting you with a hug like an old friend from college and introduced you to her husband. and then you heard them, two little girls screaming "Uncle Mick" and jumping on your boyfriend. that was cute.

not even 20 minutes later, his brother passed the door with his fiancée and their three kids, all three of them running to greet their 'favorite' uncle. now that made 5 of them.

when you thought it was over, the door opened once again and two more kids came in running and greeting everyone, their parents, Mickey's cousins, coming in just next. now that made 7.

when you counted 10 of them, you went to Mickey and grabbed his arm, pulling him aside and asked him if there were more kids to come. he laughed and grabbed you by the hips. "would you like to see more of them?"

you and him had been dating for a bit more than 7 months and even though you already talked about marriage, kids weren't on the table yet. so when he asked you that, you were a bit surprised, but pleasantly so. "not so soon, Romeo" you patted his chest with a chuckle.

but as you went back with everyone, Mickey couldn't help but stare at you, trying to imagine how lovely you'd be with a round belly or a small child in your arms

Robert "Bob" Floyd

the day Bob asked about funding a family with you for the first time, you were cuddling on the couch, watching some rom-com. you'd been engaged for two months at the moment and it just felt right to start talking about it.

he had so many good memories from his childhood with his family that he wanted to create some more with a family he'd share with you

through the whole conversation, he'd rub your stomach, eager to see it grow with his child. so you started trying, forgetting the condom box under your bed.

his friends would tease him, calling both of you rabbits. but none of those mocking were meant to be insulting, you all knew that.

you started planning how to decorate the baby's room and what kind of toys and plushies you'd get for them.

he'd hold you tight in his arms whenever you'd get a negative on a test and you couldn't wait to see the smile stretch his lips when he'd read 'positive' on the stick.

you knew he'd make an amazing father, and he knew you'd be the perfect mother for his kids.

[baldwinivmybeloved]

🍶 Charper Twenty Eight  𓈒   ⁺ 𓏵 Xica x Baldwin IV

Time passed quickly, like a rushing river that stops for nothing. The seasons followed one another, bringing changes both in the landscape and in the hearts of those who lived in the castle. The winter winds had taken the leaves from the trees, and now spring bloomed in all its splendor. During this time, Inés de Courtenay had fled her fate, finding refuge with some influential relatives, only to succumb to illness shortly after. The news of her death reached the castle, leaving Baldwin and Sibylla in silent melancholy.

Xica was in the twins' room, watching them sleep peacefully. Her mind was filled with thoughts of Inés, the woman who had been a constant source of anguish and pain, but who was also the grandmother of her children.

"Despite all the harm she wished upon us, she is still a part of our history, Baldwin. The grandmother of Arik and Ariella," Xica whispered as she caressed Ariella's forehead.

Baldwin approached and hugged her from behind, whispering in her ear.

"It's hard to reconcile those feelings, but life goes on. We must look forward and take care of our family."

Xica nodded, feeling the warmth of her husband. Despite the sadness she felt, there was peace in knowing they were together, facing the future as a unit.

In those days, Xica had been exchanging letters with the young prince, Baldwin's nephew, who was receiving treatment in a distant land. The letters were a mix of nostalgia and hope, a bond that kept the connection between the different branches of their family alive.

One morning, while Xica was reviewing her correspondence, she found a letter from the prince. She opened it carefully and read it aloud to Baldwin:

Dear Xica,

I am greatly surprised by everything that has happened since I left. The news of your marriage to my uncle Baldwin left me speechless. I never imagined that fate could unite you in such a way. And the twins… what joy to know the family has grown! I look forward to the day I can return and meet my cousins.

Although I am far away, I feel that part of me is always with you. Stay strong and take good care of yourselves.

With love,

Your nephew,

The Prince

Xica smiled as she read the young prince's words, feeling warmth in her heart. Baldwin watched her, a soft smile on his face.

"He's a good boy. I hope he can return soon," said Baldwin.

Time had transformed both Baldwin and Xica. They were no longer the young people who had met under difficult circumstances. Now they were adults, parents of two children who filled their days with love and challenges. At five years old, Arik and Ariella were the embodiment of vitality and the promise of the future.

Arik, with his blonde hair and blue eyes, had an adventurous spirit that led him to explore every corner of the castle. His energy was contagious, and Baldwin and Xica were often seen laughing at his antics.

"Mom, look what I found!" Arik shouted one day, running towards Xica with a frog in his hand.

"Arik! Not inside the castle!" said Xica, trying to keep a serious expression while Baldwin suppressed a laugh.

Ariella, on the other hand, was more serious and reflective. Her eyes were also a deep blue, but her gaze had an intensity that reflected her intellectual curiosity. She spent hours riding with her father or reading with her mother.

"Dad, will you teach me more about the old traditions today?" Ariella asked, her tone showing her passion for knowledge.

"Of course, my little one. There is always something new to learn," Baldwin replied, stroking her hair.

The days were filled with moments like these, a mix of laughter and learning. One afternoon, while the children were playing in the garden, Baldwin decided to talk to them about the future.

"Arik, Ariella, come here," Baldwin called, sitting on a bench under a large oak tree.

The twins ran to their father and sat beside him, looking at him with curiosity.

"I want to tell you a story," Baldwin began, his voice full of gravity and tenderness. "One day, when you grow up, one of you will become the king or queen of Jerusalem. It will be a great responsibility, but also a great honor."

Arik looked at his father with wide eyes.

"Me? King?" he asked, unable to hide his excitement.

"Yes, son. You or your sister. It will depend on who is ready and who is chosen by the people," Baldwin replied, smiling.

Ariella, with her reflective nature, asked:

"And how will we know what to do, Dad?"

Baldwin caressed his daughter's cheek.

"You will know because you will be prepared. Your mother and I will teach you everything you need to know. And you will always have the wise advice of Tiberias, Godfrey, and all those who have helped us govern."

Xica, who had been watching from a distance, approached and joined them.

"We will always be here to support and guide you," she said, taking Baldwin's hand.

The days were filled with precious moments of teaching and love. Baldwin and Xica shared the upbringing of their children, teaching them not only the skills needed to rule but also the values of compassion, justice, and love.

One afternoon, Baldwin and Xica were in the library, reading a book about the old traditions of Jerusalem. Ariella was beside them, following the words with her finger.

"Dad, can you tell me more about the ancient kings?" Ariella asked, her voice full of curiosity.

"Of course, my daughter. There was a king named David, who was brave and wise. He ruled with justice and always thought of his people before himself. I want you to remember that, you must always put your people first," Baldwin replied.

Meanwhile, Arik was outside, practicing with his wooden sword, imitating the knights he had seen in training.

"Look, Mom! I'm a brave knight!" Arik shouted, waving his sword in the air.

Xica smiled, seeing her son's determination and spirit.

"Yes, you are, my brave knight," she said, laughing as she approached to hug him.

The nights were moments of peace and reflection. After the children fell asleep, Baldwin and Xica stayed awake, talking about the future and their dreams.

"Do you think they'll be ready when the time comes?" Xica asked, lying on Baldwin's chest.

"They will be. Because they will have our love and teachings. And because they are our children, brave and wise," Baldwin replied, kissing her forehead.

The love and unity of their family were unbreakable, a fortress on which everyone could rely. The days passed, filled with laughter, learning, and shared dreams.

Xica and Baldwin watched their children with pride, knowing that the future was in good hands. And although the path would not always be easy, they were ready to face any challenge together, as a family.

Night shadows began to fall over the castle, painting the sky a deep dark blue dotted with bright stars. Within the stone walls, Arik and Ariella prepared for bed in their room, which was decorated with carefully crafted tapestries and furniture.

Ariella was sitting on the bed, reading a book of ancient stories by the light of an oil lamp. Arik, on the other hand, was on the floor, playing with his wooden toys, a miniature knight and a dragon, recreating an epic battle.

"Ariella, don't you ever get bored of reading all the time?" Arik asked, looking up at his sister.

Ariella lifted her eyes from her book and looked at him with a slight smile.

"No, Arik. I like learning about our past. It's important to know where we come from to understand where we are going."

Arik sighed and flopped down on the carpet.

"But you never do anything fun. Everything is so… serious with you. You should learn to relax a bit."

Ariella closed the book and leaned forward, interested in the conversation.

"Relax? And what do you propose I do to relax, brother?"

Arik grinned mischievously and sat up, moving closer to his sister.

"We could go explore the garden at night. Dad told us stories about how he used to catch fireflies when he was a boy. It would be exciting, don't you think?"

Ariella shook her head gently but firmly.

"That sounds… dangerous. And Dad always says we need to be safe. Besides, I'd rather stay here and read. There are so many fascinating stories in these books."

Arik frowned in frustration and crossed his arms.

"You're always so proper, Ariella. You don't know what you're missing!"

Ariella shrugged and reopened her book, but her eyes stayed on Arik, feeling the urgency in his voice.

"Maybe someday, Arik. But for now, I'm happy like this. Besides, you can always tell me about your adventures, and it's like I'm living them too."

Arik lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling, his mind full of dreams and plans.

"I want to be a brave knight like Dad, saving kingdoms and fighting dragons. Wouldn't you like to be part of that, Ariella?"

Ariella smiled tenderly, knowing how much those dreams meant to her brother.

"Of course, Arik. But we also need people who think and plan. Someone has to make sure everything is in order while the brave knights are on their adventures."

Arik sighed, resigned but understanding his sister's point of view.

"I guess you're right. But promise me that someday you'll come with me on one of my adventures."

Ariella nodded slowly.

"I promise, Arik. Someday."

The conversation faded into a comfortable silence as they both settled into their beds. Ariella turned off the oil lamp, letting the starlight fill the room with a soft glow.

"Good night, Arik," Ariella said, closing her eyes.

"Good night, Ariella," Arik replied, looking at the stars through the window.

The twins fell asleep, each with their own dreams and aspirations, but always united by the unbreakable bond of their sibling love. The stars shone above them, silent witnesses to their promise of adventures and knowledge, bravery and wisdom.

Baldwin and Xica, watching from the ajar door, looked at each other with pride and love.

"Our children are destined for great things, Baldwin. I feel it in my heart," Xica whispered, taking her husband's hand.

"They are. And together, we'll guide them to find their path," Baldwin replied, gently squeezing Xica's hand.

The night stretched over the castle, enveloping the family in a mantle of peace and hope, as the seasons continued their eternal cycle, carrying with them the dreams and promises of the future.

I would like to know how you thought of the story, what else would you like me to add? It's almost the final stretch sadly but I already thought of a new story with our beloved Baldwin

[decent0distraction]

Hi! You may know me as the person who does all of those Our Flag Means Death AUs, theories, and posts that either ruin your day, make you laugh, or both. Mostly both.

But I have something else for you.

My take on family!Sanders Sides - based off of the whole family roles the Sides gave themselves in the Five Years video.

To refresh your memory, Patton labeled himself as the dad, Logan as the mom, Roman as the son (the hotshot), Virgil as the (gay, emo) cousin, Janus as the (sassy) aunt (who talks shit about everyone), and Remus as the (fresh out of jail) uncle.

BUT

This AU of mine is… messed up.

Ok ok ok SO

We begin with Janus Duke, who has just moved back to the town of Sanders Bay, a lovely seaside community.

Janus has spent the last 10 years raising their son (Janus uses they/them pronouns bc I said so), moving from place to place for reasons that Virgil doesn’t know about yet that we’ll get into later. Stay with me.

Virgil is 16 and on his first day at Sanders Bay Secondary Academy (what a name, huh?), his dad, Remus, is getting out of jail.

When Virgil was about 6, Janus and Remus had decided to walk from their house into town to pick up their son from the babysitter. They were about halfway there when someone attacked Janus, cutting his face (resulting in scars on one side of his mouth, eye, and cheek, resembling a snake like face). Remus reacted violently towards the person who just hurt his spouse, the cops are called, and it’s made out to look like Remus had hurt Janus, who was unconscious.

When Janus finally came to, they were in a hospital, being told that their husband had been arrested and arranged.

Cut to present day, Virgil’s first day is met with a slight complication when an idiot threatre-jock hybrid accidentally knocks into him, causing him to hit his head.

Roman Hart insists that Virgil allow him to escort him to the nurse, who just so happens to be his dad, Patton Hart.

Roman’s other dad is their home room and history teacher, Logan Hart.

By the end of the school day, Roman and Virgil are sort of friends. But when Roman asks Virgil if they’d want to hang out or something, Virgil explains that he has to get home because his dad is finally home.

Roman just assumes that Virgil’s dad is in the military. He doesn’t even actually get to ask, because Virgil is too busy running out to Janus’s car.

Everything is going fine for a little while. Virgil studies with Roman after school, or they go to the mall, eventually going to Roman’s house.

The Harts are the nicest people in town, and Patton simply adores having Virgil around.

Janus, one day, is waiting with Remus in the school pick up lane for Virgil. The two of them are having a nice, causal conversation that is interrupted by Janus seeing their son talking to them.

“Oh, my God!” Janus slammed his foot on the break and put the car in park. “It’s them! It’s them!”

Remus looked to see their son standing with another boy, while the boy’s parents talked to Virgil.

They were Patton and Logan Hart, two people the Duke parents were happy to never see again.

When Patton put his hand on Virgil’s shoulder, Janus struggled to rush out of the car. Remus followed.

“Virgil!”

The anxious teen turned to watch his mom run to him and pull him away from the Harts.

“Are you okay? Did they hurt you?”

Virgil was beyond confused. “What? No! I’m fine. What are you-“ He stopped when Remus started to approach.

“Dad? Dad, I don’t know what’s happening, but nothing happened. Dad!”

But the man ignored his son in favor of getting in Logan’s face. “You’d do right by you and your family to stay the fuck away from mine.”

Logan didn’t even flinch. “And it would be correct for you to avoid threatening my family.”

Virgil was ready to try to defuse the situation before Janus began to have a panic attack. “Mom?”

Remus is then distracted by his spouse needing his help. He gets his little family in the car and they get home, where the parents sit down and finally tell Virgil the truth.

The truth is, Patton Hart and Janus Duke were friends. When they were 20, and Janus had a child and Patton didn’t, he got upset. And when he saw baby Virgil, he decided that he needed that child.

He acted like everything was fine. He offered to babysit Virgil so the new parents could have some time to themselves. He paid for Janus to be attacked, for Remus to be framed.

But when Janus woke up, he called Patton, screaming, begging. He knew Patton had the baby.

And Patton knew that if he kept Virgil, everything could be traced back to him eventually.

So he returned Virgil, acting like he was just watching the child for his friend.

But Janus moved away, moving from place to place so that they couldn’t be found.

Janus was so desperate to have their husband and their son’s father back that they believed Patton and Logan had moved on.

But to see that man anywhere their baby, Janus couldn’t handle it.

Virgil knows the truth now. How can anything be the same?

Before they can try to figure it out, the doorbell rings.

Janus flinches and Virgil is still busy hugging his Mom to bother with the door.

“I got it,” Remus tells them, answering the door to a man in all black and sunglasses.

“Look, whatever you’re selling, we’re not interested. Try the neighbors across the street. A lot of packages. Maybe they like sunglasses, or whatever you’re situation is-“

“-I’m not selling anything, sir. I’m looking for Remus Duke.”

Turns out, this guy isn’t a salesman. He’s Detective Remy Dormir (idk, I got the name from a human!AU fanart), hired by Roman Hart to find his birth family. (He arranged for this a year before the Dukes moved back to Sanders Bay)

This eventually leads to the discovery that Remus Duke’s father, Romulus King, got a woman pregnant before his passing. By this time, his son Remus had moved far away and changed his name, never successful at pleasing the man.

So yeah, Roman and Remus are half brothers. Which means Virgil’s only friend in Sanders Bay is his half uncle, since Virgil is the biological son of Janus and Remus Duke.

Yeah, there’s no romance between Roman and Virgil. Sorry to disappoint you Roman/Virgil shippers. There’s nothing wrong with that ship, it just doesn’t work for this AU.

That’s all I have so far. If I find that I missed something, I’ll add it later.

[starry-hughes]

Congratulations on 500 could you write mark Estapa with B asking A to attend a wedding with them, to get out of going with someone their parents tried to set them up with.

thank you!!

-

“no mom! don’t make me go with jaxon!” you groaned over the phone as you plopped down on the couch next to your roommate. you liked at the sophomore house, it wasn’t ideal to live with so many boys but you needed cheap rent.

mark threw you a glance. “i don’t need to bring someone to her wedding!” you argued. your mom was trying to get you to bring a date to your cousin’s wedding, attempting to set you up with some son of her coworker. “are you seeing someone? is that why you’re so adverse to this?” she asked.

“yes! yes i’m seeing someone,” you lied after you panicked. mark threw you a confused glanced. “his name?? his name is uh mark!” you lied.

mark’s eyes went wide, trying to motion to you “no!”

“i’ll see if he can come, okay okay, love you bye!” you said hanging up the phone. “mark, i need the biggest favor,” you said sweetly, looking over at your roommate. he sighed, “when’s the wedding?”

mark’s arm was looped through yours as you walked into the barn for the wedding reception. the ceremony had went smooth, mainly because no one was able to interrogate mark. the two of you had practiced answers to all the basic questions like what he’s studying, what he does, how you two met. mark had agreed to go with you after you offered to do his laundry for a month and he secretly just wanted to go with you and pretend to be your boyfriend.

“there’s my bitchy cousin,” you mumbled as you steered him around various family members. “are you badmouthing the bride on her special day?” he joked. “listen, she and i are the same age but she’s always tried to be better then me and boss me around, i’m happy she’s found love but she’s not the best person.”

mark stifled his laugh as you approached your cousin and her new husband, wiping the snarl off your face and replacing it with a smile. “chelsea! hi! congrats on the wedding!” you greeted.

“oh is this the mysterious boyfriend that everyone is talking about?” she said.

“i’m mark,” he extended his hand for a shake, “it was a nice wedding, congratulations.”

“so mark, how’d you meet, what do you do, ya know all the basic questions!” your cousin asked. “we were actually roommates but got to know each other at a hockey game,” you said.

“oh you watch hockey too? (y/n) loves hockey but i personally don’t like sports at all, just the boys.” she said.

“i play actually.”

and you would never forget the face your cousin made. surprised, shocked, and jealously. “we should get to our table, babe, do you want a drink?” mark asked, a cheeky smile on his face, he saw your cousin’s expression as well. “i’d love a drink,” you grinned before walking off.

[dukeofdelirium]

In my early days of being a moonwalker, I remember being very ashamed to the point where I would keep it a secret. I wasn’t ashamed of the person that I was listening to and watching, but rather the opinions of other people. Before I got into his music, I remember my dad telling me that he was gay and that he liked little boys. Of course, I had to ask if he went to jail for that, but I was told that he bought his way out. That never made sense to me, therefore it meant nothing to me. When I finally got into his music and everything, I didn’t tell anyone, when usually I would yap about things that became my recent obsession. After a while, my cousin found out about a TikTok account I had (back when it was Musically lol) that was a fan account. I played it off as using his image to bring in more likes and views (it sounds terrible, I know). I remember this conversation I had with her that I said I honestly thought he was cute, and at that moment her mom walked in and she told her mom about what I said. Her mom looked at me as if it was the worse thing I could’ve told her daughter and asked if I was okay. I laughed and said that I was over him anyway, but it hurt and still does after so many years. When LN came out, I remember discussing it with a friend, saying it would be impossible to be abused in a place that didn’t exist and her response was, “Sure, but that doesn’t mean nothing happened.” I wasn’t coming across as a fan, just someone who heard something through the grape vine and it was clear that she did not know the extent of their claims. Recently, perhaps within the last year, I was talking with my sister about something that had nothing to do with Michael, but somehow he entered the conversation. She turned to her husband and said “Did you know there’s a documentary about how he abused two kids?” It was obvious to me that she’d never seen it, but I didn’t say anything cause who would believe me? Of course, I’m still not THAT open about it but I’ve grown the deal with the jokes, the rumors, and the side eyes.

I had similar experiences. I remember that growing up, my dad did not allow me or my siblings to actually listen to MJ’s music lol. I remember watching the news during his criminal trial, I remember the late night talk shows where they had the audacity to joke about child molestation and turn him into a caricature.

I remember that I used to listen to MJ secretly lmfao. I’d literally sneak around the house and play his music only when everyone else was asleep 😭 my dad had my ass feeling like some kind of criminal for playing MUSIC 😭😭😭😭 my dad also said similar things by making fun of Michael for “being gay” and whatnot. Obviously Michael wasn’t gay, but the way my dad spoke about it was another big reason it took me so long to accept my sexuality, because I was being exposed to how much he hated the idea of gay people when I was like 6-7 years old.

I also remember black or white being the first MJ song I heard. The song and vid are still special to me bc I remember having to secretly watch it when no one could catch me and I was obsessed needless to say.

Anyway, I think a lot of us MJ fans had similar experiences in this regard. Either we were afraid to be caught being fans, afraid to be caught listening to his music, or we were being harassed and bullied for it or something. As I’ve gotten older I stopped giving a fuck, though, obviously. But it’s really fucked up that so many of us were made to feel this way. For what? Listening to great music and defending a provably innocent man? It’s crazy lmao

[luverofralts]

Arkhelios Adventures

"It's nice to actually see you in Arkhelios. You're always off at school when I come by."

Melvin Jr Hydes smiled at Theo. It really was nice to see the Bellamy child closest to his own age. Melvin was going to college in a few weeks, so he wasn't sure when the next time he'd see Theo would be. Arkhelios certainly talked about Theo often, and Melvin couldn't resist seeing the infamous demon hybrid for himself.

Of course, Theo had come home with his boyfriend, Adam, who never seemed to be far from his side, as well as Adam's cousin Eero. The three of them joked about magic and Pleasantview and demons, all things that Melvin knew very little about but was interested in learning more about. Soon, he'd be leaving for adventures of his own in the world beyond Arkhelios.

"You're lucky that you get to go to school in Pleasantview," Eero grumbled. "Aunt Edana says we can't transfer from the Arkhelios coven's 'classes' until next year. We're 'helping her keep an eye on them' or something."

"Well, you are," Adam insisted. "She always has a plan for everything. You're there for a reason."

"And that reason is because she can't stand looking at us," Eero shot back. "We're practically the same age, Adam. She raised you and your sister and half-siblings, but when she was given custody of me and Despina, we were the ones who were raised by the coven, not you."

"She was young and just lost your dad," Adam protested. "How many kids could you raise by yourself? It's not like she abandoned you. She's paid for everything you and Despina need and you guys were always at the house."

"Geez, you're overly defensive. She's your mom, not your girlfriend."

"You wouldn't know what having a mom is like, considering yours died in a cult that was trying to sacrifice you to the Grim Reaper!" Adam snapped, only to regret his words when he saw the look on his cousin's face. "Shit, I'm sorry, Eero. That was uncalled for. I don't know why i said that. My mom did the best she could for you guys, that's all I meant."

"So, the kids are behaving, Theo hasn't said anything snarky since he got home, and dinner was great. I think we should celebrate."

Abe took his husband in his arms, swaying to the music of the stereo that the teens were blasting to muffle their conversations.

"I agree," Abe murmured, spinning his husband around when the song sped up. "Things may finally be settling down. At this rate, we may be able to go on a date if we wanted. Imagine leaving the house for something other than groceries, work and pediatric check ups. It's unthinkable."

"That sounds wonderful," Roman agreed, nuzzling into Abe's shoulder. "A real date, for grown-ups only. A bar maybe. It's been ages since I've been drunk in public, staggering my way back home."

"You're only twenty-nine once. You have to live a little before you hit thirty."

"Oh, trust me, I've lived plenty," Roman laughed. "Having a kid at sixteen and murderous mother will do that to you. I'm so glad that you're still here beside me after all these years."

"Me too."

"So, uh, Melvin. What are you taking in college?" Adam asked, awkwardly changing the subject.

Melvin shrugged.

"My dad wants me to take police foundations and follow the family business," he replied. "I'm not so sure that that's for me though. I'll see what I like when I get there. I applied for philosophy. Whatever I end up studying, I'm sure it will be something that I'm just as passionate about as he is policing."

"Hey, the kids are asleep, and Theo seems to be pretty distracted with his friends. I might, uh, retire to the bedroom for a bit, if you wanted to come with me," Roman offered, kissing his husband passionately.

Abe smiled against Roman's lips and nodded.

"That sounds like a great idea."

[girly-blogging]

My Secret Santa… - a hotd christmas special

this is just a silly little thing about how a targaryen secret santa would go but i hope you guys enjoy it :)

you can also find it at ao3 here!

“Do we have to do this every year?” Aegon is the first to say anything.

Everyone was gathered around the fire with presents in their hands. Viserys sits comfortably on his recliner while Alicent takes a chair from the dinner room so she can sit next to him. Daemon and Rhaenyra share a loveseat by the window, she’s on his lap even though there’s space for the both of them. Aegon lays on his mother’s new chaise and no one insists on him taking a sitting position. Jace and Luke take the couch’s cushions and sit on the rug, leaving the bigger couch for the girls and Daeron. Aemond is the only one standing but his mother insists he takes a seat so he gets on the ground next to his nephews.

“It’s the tradition, darling.” Alicent replies.

“And we already bought the gifts so what would we do with these, you big idiot?” Aemond asks his brother.

“I can think of a few functions for mine.”

“You’re disgusting.” Says Daeron while looking at his brother’s always tired-looking eyes.

“Let's just do this!” Says Rhaenyra while Daemon peppers her neck with kisses.

“Who’s first?” Asks Rhaena timidly.

“Not me.” Her sister replies at the same time as her cousins.

“Maybe you should start, husband.” Alicent suggests.

“Very well. I’ll be the first.” Viserys gets up from the recliner and finishes his whiskey glass before he starts talking. “My secret santa…”

Viserys is the one who has the most fun with this tradition, that’s why his wife always organizes everything every year and makes sure it all goes perfectly. “Is…”

“He always does this.” Daemon murmurs.

“Leave him be, my love.” Rhaenyra replies.

“Well, she is a strong woman.”

“Oh, man. I was hoping it was me.” Whispers Lucerys to his brother. “His gifts are always the best.”

“Who says it’s not you, little one?” Aegon laughs, no one else thinks it’s funny.

“She’s a great mother.”

Helaena, Baela and Rhaena sigh, only Alicent and Rhaenyra were mothers.

“She’s the most beautiful creation this world has ever seen.”

“Oh, my darling.” Alicent is about to get up from her chair when her husband continues to talk.

“When the midwife first brought her to me and Aemma told me her name, I knew she would be destined for great things.”

“What?” Alicent had the most confused look on her eyes.

“Oh, dad!”

Rhaenyra gets up from her chair. Everyone was trying to hold their laughter while Alicent’s cheeks looked redder than ever.

Viserys holds his first child in his arms like it was his last time hugging his daughter. Once they let go, Rhaenyra opens the black box she was given and sighs. “It’s beautiful!”

“What is it, mom?” Luke is the one to ask but everyone (especially Alicent) is trying to find out what’s in the box so Rhaenyra turns it around and the whole family can see the magnificent pearl necklace Viserys gave her. The old man smiles and helps his daughter put it on.

“You look breathtaking, my love.” Daemon gets up and kisses her hand.

“Thank you.” She blushes.

“Great. Let’s keep going.” Alicent calls for her husband to come back and Daemon gets back to the loveseat to get Rhaenyra’s gift for her.

“My secret santa…” She starts when everyone is on their seats. “Well, Daemon and I have a full house most of the time. But when my first baby left the nest it never felt more empty. I cried for days. So, my secret santa-”

Rhaenyra smiles with teary eyes and Jace gets up from the ground to hug his mother. He and Baela had just moved to their new loft after their wedding.

“Oh, mom.”

“I love you so much, my boy.” She gives him a small paper bag. “You too, Baela. Don’t think I haven’t missed you like hell, my darling.”

Baela smiles at her mother-in-law.

“Airpods?” Jace screams when he opens the bag. “Mom!! You’re the best!!”

They hug again and Luke whines about his mom and grandfather always giving the best gifts and none of them got him.

“Okay, let’s keep going.” Rhaenyra says.

“My secret santa…” Jace doesn’t know how to exactly describe his secret santa without being rude, but he tries. “Well, he has nice hair.”

“So not you, Aegon.” Luke whispers to his uncle.

“And a bit of a sour mood.”

“It’s Aemond!” Helaena says and claps her hands. Everyone laughs.

“Yes, Helaena. It is Aemond.”

Aemond doesn’t even get up when Jace gives him a silver box with a giant bow in it. He puts the box next to him and gets up with his gift in hands.

“You have to open your present, Aemond.” Helaena scolds him.

“Fine.” He takes the box back and rips the silver wrapping without any care. “Sunglasses?”

“Yes.” Jace smiles.

Aemond doesn’t say anything.

“Do you like it?” Jace is still smiling. “Maybe you should try it on.”

Aegon is the only one to laugh but Daeron and Luke are trying really hard to hold it in. Alicent has a typical sour face.

“Maybe you should die in a ditch.” Aemond grunts. He throws the sunglasses away and gets his gift.

“This is taking forever.” Aegon whines from his chase. “C’mon, guys! I wanna eat!”

“Fine. Mine’s Luke.” It’s basically a growl and everyone is laughing.

“That’s not how the game works.” Viserys is the only one to complain.

Aemond gives his nephew an ugly and wrinkled paper bag like the ones from a grocery shop and goes back to sitting on the ground.

Luke opens it and his face is as wrinkled as the paper bag.

“Rat poison?” The boy asks.

“You might need it.” Aemond has a big grin on his face. “Never know when you’re gonna be dealing with a rat problem.”

Luke wonders why that sounded like a threat. “Jesus.”

“Okay. My secret santa is a very funny person.” Says Luke. No one takes a guess. “You can say they’re something like a free spirit.”

“It is Helaena?” Rhaena asks.

“As if anyone would describe Helaena as ‘funny’.” Says Aegon in a bored tone.

“No, it’s not Helaena.” Luke looks across the room and thinks. “It’s a guy who likes to have fun.”

“You’re killing me, Luke!” Aegon screams. “I will literally starve!”

“Fine! He’s a drunk!”

“It’s Aegon!”

Jace, Daeron and Rhaena say it at the same time. Alicent shakes her head and presses a hand to her forehead.

“Yes!” Aegon finally gets up and hugs Luke.

“Get off! You smell like wine.” Luke whines.

“Thank you, nephew.”

Aegon kisses Luke’s cheek and finally lets the boy go after taking the gift from his hand. He rips the delicate paper off and finds a white shirt.

“I’m holding a beer. So yeah I’m pretty busy.” Aegon reads the words on the shirt and holds it so everyone can see it.

“Oh, Lord.” Alicent murmurs when everyone is laughing.

“I love it!” Aegon takes off his shirt to put on the new one. “Could be a six-pack, but this is fine too.”

“I’m 17, Aegon. I can’t buy alcohol.” Luke says from his seat on the rug.

“That never stopped me!”

Aegon takes his gift from the chaise, it’s wrapped in a nice red paper but it’s all wrinkled.

“My secret santa…” He says with a devilish grin on his face. “Well, she’s pretty hot.”

“You’re disgusting.” Daeron says.

“You’ve already said that, brother. Anyway, I think she’s gonna look great in this.” Aegon shakes the gift. “It’s perfect for newlyweds.”

“Shit, it’s me, isn’t it?” Baela asks.

“It’s you, dear cousin.” Aegon hugs her and it feels inappropriate even though he doesn’t touch anywhere he’s not supposed to.

Baela opens the gift to find a matching lace lingerie set, it’s cherry red and has more ribbons than it should.

“Aegon!” Baela can’t help but blush.

“Oh, Lord have mercy.”

Alicent is shaking her head again and the boys and Rhaena are all laughing. Except for Jace.

“Did you seriously give my wife a lingerie set and said she would look great in it?” He asks angrily.

Now even Daemon tries to hold his laugh.

“I would’ve given you one too but you’re not my secret santa.” Aegon answers like that’s the reason Jace is mad.

“You’re unbelievable.”

“It’s okay, babe.” She kisses her husband's cheek and whispers in his ear. “I’ll burn it when we get home.”

“Okay. So, my secret santa.” Baela took her gift from under the christmas tree. “Is someone whose company I enjoy very much.”

“Me, again?” Jace asks.

“You already have a gift, you dumb fuck.” Aemond says while his mother scolds him.

“When I was single we used to go clubbing together and we would always hit on the same person just for fun.”

“Girl!” Daeron gets up from the couch and hugs her. “I love you, bitch.”

“I love you too.”

“Hitting on the same person?” Alicent whispers to Rhaenyra. “Is Baela one of those girls who have… relations… with men and women?”

“Not exactly, Alicent.” Rhaenyra answers and Daemon is unsuccessfully trying to hold his laugh.

“I don’t understand.” Says Alicent with a sour face.

“You wouldn’t, would you?” Asks Daemon.

“Oh my God! I can’t believe you!” Daeron screams and shows his new Lady Gaga album collection to everyone in the room. Then he hugs Baela again. “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

“You’re welcome, love.” She smiles.

“This is never ending, is it?” Aegon goes back to laying on the chaise.

“I would try not to extend your torture too much Aegon.” Says Daeron who’s in the middle of the room. “But I just don’t care enough to.”

Everyone laughs, even Alicent shows a very small smile.

“My secret santa is someone that everyone sees as intimidating.” He looks around the room but no one takes a guess. “But I think he just doesn’t want people to know how big his heart is.”

“Oh, love.” Says Rhaenyra to her husband. “I think it’s you.”

“It is you, uncle.” Daeron smiles sweetly.

Daemon grunts before getting up and hugging the boy.

“Thanks, kid. But my heart is just as black as my soul.”

“Sure it is.” Rhaenyra laughs.

Daemon opens the gift and smiles as he sees his favorite whiskey. He thanks his nephew again.

He gets his gift, it’s a big pink box.

“Well, my secret santa… I think she’s going to enjoy this present very much. God knows she needs it.”

“Okay so it’s either me or Rhaena or Mother.” Says Halaena.

“She’s not young enough to be my daughter.” Daemon tips again.

“It’s Alicent.” Rhaenyra says loudly.

“What?” Alicent gets up while her husband laughs. “I’m not that old.”

“There you go, sister.” Daemon gives her the box. “Enjoy it.”

“Thank you, Daemon.”

She puts it on the ground and gets on her knees to open it. Once it’s open her cheeks turn burning red.

“What is it, mom?” Daeron asks.

“This is highly inappropriate!” Alicent says and closes the box.

“C’mon, sis.” Daemon says with a grin on his face. “You know the rules, you have to show us the gift!”

“I will not!” She yells.

“Just show us, Alicent.” Viserys whines. “You’re ruining all the fun!”

She grunts like a child but gets her hands in the box and takes a not so small purple glittery dildo from it. No one can hold it in and the whole family is in tears from laughing so much.

“Daemon, you rogue!” Viserys says with a big grin.

“It’s not funny, Viserys!” Alicent has already put the thing back in the box. “Don’t you dare condone this kind of behavior.”

“It’s just a prank, Alicent.”

“It was a bit funny, mother.” Helaena says timidly.

“Oh, Lord!” Alicent prays. “Forgive thy children for they do not know what they do!”

“C’mon, mom.” Says Aegon. “Who’s your secret santa?”

Alicent was so angry that she wanted to end the game right away and send everyone to their homes. But then she sees her husband smiling and remembers how much he loves the family gatherings and how much fun he always has with the silly game. So she tries to forget about Daemon's sinful gift. For they shall answer for their sins in front of the Lord.

“Fine.” She gets her gift under the tree. “My secret santa is a very sweet girl.”

“Is it me, mother?” Helaena asks.

“No, darling. It’s not.”

“So it’s Rhaena. She’s the only girl left.” Aemond snaps. He’s also tired of the game.

“Yes.”

Rhaena gets up from the couch and hugs Alicent, who gives her a small box wrapped in golden gift paper. She opens it and it’s a sewing kit, a small one that fits in a purse.

“Oh, thank you, Alicent.” She timidly smiles. “But I don’t know how to sew.”

“And I don’t blame you, darling.” Alicent has a sweet smile on her face. “I know your mother didn’t have the time to teach you and God knows how many times I tried to teach Rhaenyra but she never learned. But it’s an important skill.”

“Is it though?” Daemon says and Rhaenyra grins. Alicent ignores both of them.

“Men always need us to sew their clothes.” She keeps going. “Once you’re married you’re gonna see how useful sewing is. The Lord knows how many of my Viserys’ socks I’ve already fixed.”

“Thanks Alicent. I do think it’s a very useful skill.” Rhaena goes back to her place on the couch. “But I’m a lesbian so I don’t know how many men’s socks I’ll be sewing.”

Alicent is silent. And so is the rest of the room. Until Daemon lets go the loudest laugh they all heard that night. Rhaena is smiling, her sister hugs her and the boys are all laughing.

“I love you so much, my girl.” Daemon says with eyes filled with tenderness.

Once again, Alicent is the only one not having fun.

“My secret santa is the sweetest person in this room.” Rhaena gets up again after taking her gift.

“Oh, please. Helaena and father are the only ones left.” Aegon whines. “Just end my misery.”

“Is it me?” Helaena asks.

“Yes, it’s you.”

The girls share a tight hug and Helaena takes the gift from her cousin. She opens the box and sighs.

“Oh! Thank you, Rhaena. It’s beautiful!” She shows it to everyone.

“And what the fuck is that?” Aegon asks.

“You don’t know?” No one in the room seems to know. “It’s a tibetan singing bowl!”

Helaena takes the stick that comes inside the bow and shows it’s ‘song’.

“Great! One more thing for you to make noise!” Aegon whines one more time.

“If you think Helaena is such a bad company maybe you should finally move out of your mother’s house.” Jace snaps.

“Jacaerys!” Rhaenyra scolds him.

“I’m just saying! He’s the oldest of us!”

“Or maybe Helaena should leave. She’s also old as fuck.” Aegon replies.

“That’s enough!” Alicent yells. “Nobody is leaving! Now, let’s finish this so we can pray and eat.”

“Well, my secret santa…” Helaena starts.

“Oh, Dear.” Viserys gets up and hugs his daughter. “I’m afraid your old father is the only one left!”

Helaena smiles and gives her father his gift. He opens the tiny box and takes the present in his hand but he doesn’t know exactly what to do with it.

“It’s beautiful, Helaena.”

“They’re healing crystals!” She says excitedly. “Here’s crystal quartz for amplifying energy, bloodstone for strengthening, ruby for vitality and tiger’s eye for protection.”

“They’re all lovely.” Viserys hugs her again. “I’m sure it will be very useful. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

“And I thank all of you for participating. To be together as a family means a lot to this old fool.”

Rhaenyra and Alicent go to him for a hug. He holds his daughter and then his wife. Everyone is already up and walking to the dinner room for supper. The whole family is together and, in the end, that’s all that matters to any Targaryen.