#and when my mom and i were presented a side salad i got a sir and she got a maam

[moeblob]

Ringleader (Fake) : I'm just so cute and tiny! Who can say! Ringleader (Real) : ...wait, he's not bisexual? Fake: what? Real: what?

[stony-spn]

House Tour

(Established relationship, married au, avengers as family, soft/fluff, Tony is a mother hen, words 2304)

This isn't something new for Tony, he always liked showing off to the world that he was more than just exploding things. So when Architectural Digest asked Pepper to do an episode on the Avengers Tower to say Tony was excited was an understatement. This was his baby that he made from the ground up, every floor in the tower was made especially for his weird little family that he is very happy to spoil now and then.

“Steve, did you clean your side of the closet?” Tony yelled from the main kitchen when we heard the footsteps approach him.

“Umm…yes… maybe…..kinda. I just got a call from Maria she needs me on this mission right now. I’ll be back first thing tomorrow morning.” Steve replied with his arms folded to his chest, trying to look guilty for not being able to help but Tony could see that the bustard was more than happy to leave all of this on Tony’s shoulders.

“Oh is that so, okay but do make sure you don’t tire yourself too much since you’ll be sleeping on the couch for a week.” Tony couldn’t help but smirk at the small gasp that left Steve’s mouth, well two can play that game.

Tony felt a kiss on his neck that he happily gave more access to, “How about we make it three days?” Steve said while sucking on Tony’s earlobe and making him moan and ache for more.

“I’ll make it for two weeks if you try to bargain with me on this,” Tony said while turning in his husband’s hands to get a proper kiss.

“Well gotta make the most of it, for now, I guess,” Steve replied and started kissing his husband deeply.

“OH COME ON NOT IN FRONT OF YOUR KIDS!!” Clint yelled as soon as he saw his leaders making out in the kitchen.

“Yes daddy hard, uh, daddy..” moans started to leave Tony’s lips that only sent more shivers down Steve’s back.

“I WISH SOMEONE KILLS ME. THOR PLEASE SMASH ME BUDDY, THOR!!” Clint cried.

“I do have to leave, my love,” Steve said in between the sweet little kisses that he left on Tony’s mouth.

“You have to be back before AD comes tomorrow Steve or else I swear on your ass I will kill you.”

“I’ll try my best your majesty,” Steve replied with a smirk and a bow. That flattery asshole will make Tony’s weak heart explode.

Tony went to their master bedroom to clean it up before AD comes tomorrow because his husband would rather take Fury over-cleaning. Which should be concerning.

After a long day of cleaning Tony makes his way to the main kitchen again to feed his “so-called” kids who would live on fast food and take-outs if it wasn’t for Tony and Natasha making them home cook food. Tony loved cooking, it was the only thing we had left of his mother, Jarvis, and Ana. He still has all their recipe books even tho he has perfected and learned each recipe by heart. You know what they say if you want to win someone’s heart the stomach is the way, and when your husband is a super soldier, stomach is most definitely the way. So he started off cooking to impress Steve on their dates which soon held to a habit of always worrying if his super soldier is eating enough. Hence left to him making food for his family. So this was an enjoyable time. He was in charge of it. He gets to make everyone do the dishes or put the table on because hey if he is cooking he isn’t cleaning as well.

“What is our dear mother bear making today?” Bruce asked as soon as he saw Tony cutting meat.

“Brucie bear if you call me the mother of this relationship just because I cook, I am telling Nat.” Tony replied while hitting Bruce’s hand with the back of the knife to keep him from putting his finger in the pot, “And no putting your dirty hands in mama’s pot”.

“Oh no! We call you mama because you my friend have a serious mother hen problems that we all love and adore of course.�� Bruce smartly covered his tracks.

“Well to answer your previous question I am making seekh kabab karahi, it’s a Pakistani dish. Thor wanted something spicy and you know Clint he is a spice whore.” Tony stating like this was the most obvious fact in the world.

“So no special treat for me and Nat. And we all know you are making this for Steve, he is the real “spice whore” in this family” Bruce replied as he started mixing the pot so the gravy doesn’t stick and burn. Bruce likes helping Tony not only in the lab but in the kitchen too. Guess they aren’t only science bros.

“Steve was called on a mission this morning. Don’t know where or don’t know who. He just told me he’ll be back in the morning.” Tony said as he took over the pot and pointed at Bruce to start cutting the salad.

“Don’t worry he’ll be fine shellhead.” Nat (who no one knows when came in the kitchen) patted Tony’s back and gave him a half hug.

Tony knew it was ridiculous and that Steve could take care of anything. But ever since Tony put Iron Man on retirement he can’t help but not worry since now he never knows anything about anything. But his family is always there for him to help him not worry himself too sick. He was grateful for them.

“Miss. Nat, I believe it’s your turn to set the table” Tony replied rather too quickly to avoid the thickness he feels is coming around his throat.

“Relax mama I am here in peace.” Nat clapped her hands and danced towards the table. It was still a little crazy to see them all so comfortable with each other.

“I SMELL YOUR FOOD FROM MY ROOM TONY AND CAME RUNNING DOWN TO EAT WHAT MAMA BEAR HAVE FOR US TODAY” Thor yelled as soon as he entered the dining table that was now set with dishes and food. Everything looked perfect.

“Jarvis where is Clint?”

“Sir, Mr. Barton wants me to tell you that he is not leaving his room unless you apologize to for and I quote “ruining my virgin eyes, I saw my mom and dad making out in the kitchen and MOM WAS MOANING”.”

“Tell Barton to show his ass in 5 minutes or he isn’t getting any food tonight or an upgrade on his gadgets,” Tony said while going to sit on his usual seat which was right next to an empty seat of his husband. Just one day that is all.

“Sir, Mr. Barton is on his way. And Thor he is begging for you to not eat everything before he gets down here”

Tony could hear a smirk behind that faceless voice. When did Jarvis become this great, Tony may never know?

The next day came and the production crew was already in the penthouse setting up their cameras and lights. The rest of the Avengers were in the common floor as this was only for the penthouse, meaning Tony and a Captain was required only for the shoot. But the said “Captain” still wasn’t back was the mission that he promised he will be back first thing in the morning and it was noon and Steve was nowhere to be found. 

Tony was getting way to furious at his husband for leaving him at the end moment to do this alone when he promised that this will be something they do together like all the things they do. As Tony was about to plan all the ways he will murder his husband, his phone buzzed indicating that Tony received a text. Of course, it was Steve telling how terribly sorry he was and how will be in the tower in the next 10 mins. Tony didn’t bother replying, he’ll say everything on his mind after the shoot is over thank you very much. He just wants Steve to get here, wash and look presentable for the camera for however long they needed to, and after that Tony can murder his husband in peace and quiet of their house. Tony will happily admit that made him smile. 

“Okay, Mr.Stark we are ready. When shall we start?” Jenny, the producer asked politely. 

“We’ll start in an hour. My husband is on his way back and we’ll need a few mins to set everything up.” Tony replied excitedly. This is what he wants, to show off their house and his husband. 

Steve entered the tower in the next 8 mins and left the elevator in the next 9 mins. Not that Tony was counting he just wanted to make sure he didn’t have to kill his husband twice tonight, see he cares. 

It took about 25 mins to get Steve to take a shower and wear the clothes Tony picked out for him. While Steve was getting ready Tony took the black roses that Steve so graciously brought, put them in a vase on his side table. It is a thing they did since they started dating, Steve would bring Tony flowers every time he could go for a run and Tony will place them all over the tower to show off how wrapped up Tony has got Steve, it’s a different level of bursting his ego.

“Okay Jenny, we are ready,” Tony called out for the producer as soon as he saw Steve in the kitchen all dressed up and looking so handsome that it should be illegal. 

“Don’t you look beautiful my love?” Steve whispered in Tony’s ear with a small kiss on the skin behind his ear. 

Tony just gave an umm in response to show Steve that flattery isn’t going to give him a pass this time. But he couldn’t help the smile that was crawling up his lips that he knew gave away more than he wanted to. 

“Now this is where the magic happens,” Tony says to the camera as he opens the double french doors to their master bedroom. Steve's soft laugh can be heard behind him.

“This isn’t the only place where the magic happens.” Steve helpful adds to Tony’s surprise. WHY IS HE SURPRISED. STEVE IS AN ASSHOLE AT TIMES AND HE LOVES THIS ASSHOLE ALL THE TIME. 

“Steven Stark-Rogers please keep this kid-friendly.” Tony tried to go with hurt and betrayal in his voice but the laugh gave him away. 

Tony started explaining all the different things he got from different designers, The rug, the side tables. the color, the sofa’s, the coffee table and the books. 

“Uhh and my true love my vanity. I didn’t want a small dressing table with a small mirror. So Pepper and I went into talks with again the main designers of the whole penthouse Nate and Jeremiah, they gave the idea for a walk-in, not a closet, we’ll talk about that later but I walk in vanity that can fit six superheroes all at once. if you slide the wall on which this gorgeous gold mirror is hanging. Now, this is exclusive. I welcome you all to Tony Stark-Rogers vanity. I have it all arranged with things I use in the morning, at night, special occasions, galas, my jewelry,my hand, my face, wet products, dry ones, masks every mask has its own place, makeup that I use daily, the interview ones, the date nights one. Everything here has it’s place and is stacked ever so nicely that sometimes I just want to cry at the engineering of this.” 

Tony went on and on about his vanity and he could feel Steve watching him with a fond smile and that face he makes filled with love and affection wherever he hears Tony talk with so much joy, 

“There are a few things that are strong enough to pamper a super-soldier too, whenever he lets me pamper him that is,” Tony says as he walks out of his vanity and gives a kiss on Steve’s cheek. 

“Now let me take you to another heaven on this very floor,” Tony says all dramatically making Steve double with laughter he really loves this man to death. 

“Feast your eyes on the collection I like to call TONY STARK-ROGERS ft Steve Stark-Rogers,” Tony says as he opens yet another double french door. What can he say Tony like drama and dramatic entrance is the. 

The closet was huge filled with clothes, sunglasses, bags, shoes, had a whole coffee table with armchairs, refrigerator, and mirrors.

“This part belongs to Steve” Tony pointed the not too small but very small compared to the rest of the room part, “AND ALL OF THIS BELONGS TO ME,” Tony said we a big grin on his face. 

After the long tour of the closet, the went back into the room to close o the interview. 

“Steve do you have anything to add on our house tour, anything about how amazing job I did with our room and house,” Tony asked Steve as he made home and fixed himself beside Steve under his arms. Tony being only 5′8 and Steve 6′2 he barely reached his husband's shoulder which was okay because they fit like a puzzle and Tony could wear sexy heels and torture his husband,

“Hey, it’s your room I just get to sleep in there if I behave enough. And you did a wonderful job as always with everything you do my love,” Steve said and he leans down to kiss his husband sweetly. 

The day the interview was posted. Everyone went crazy at how cute the power couple are actually, about how amazing Tony’s interior designing is and of course #MomTony was treading everywhere. 

[dal3ks]

secrets

pairing: peter parker x female reader 

word count: 2.3k

warnings: attempted rape, attempted sexual assault, cursing, crying, fluff

you let out a sigh, putting in an earbud. it was a dark, rainy night in queens. the sky was a solid blanket of black, the lights of the city reflecting in puddles as you walked down the block. you were heading home from a friend's house, as you had to work on a presentation for your spanish class. it was well past nine o'clock, but you still had enough time to make it home before curfew.

luckily, no one was out since it was a tuesday night. it made your walk home extremely peaceful, as the city usually bustled with people daily.

a hand grabbing your elbow shook you out of your trance. wildly, you turned to notice it was a tall, hooded man.

"give me your wallet now!" he barked.

shakily, you fumbled for your keychain in your pocket, terrified. you had a can of mace on you, dangling from your keychain, but you weren't sure if this man was carrying a gun or not.

with a slight dread, you remembered you left your wallet at home. what were you supposed to say? anxiety racked your brain, sending waves of adrenaline over you. what the fuck where you supposed to do?

"i-i, don't have my wallet, sir," your voice trembled with fear.

"looks like you're going to have to pay me another way then sweetheart," he crooned, yanking you towards him.

"hey!" a new voice came into your field of hearing, "leave her alone!"

you glanced up, relieved to see spider-man standing on the rooftop of a nearby building. he swung down, shooting a web at your attacker. he was thrown into the wall, confined by a large mass of sticky web. you felt the tears overflow from your face. this man was about to take advantage of you and you somehow were saved by spider-man. what were the chances of that happening?

"are you okay?" his voice was gentle. remarkably soft for such a strong individual. you immediately inferred spider-man was a lot younger than you thought.

you nodded, your hands still shaking, "yeah, i'm okay."

"i'll keep you safe until the police arrive, okay?" you felt a gloved hand place itself on your shoulder, "you're safe as long as i'm here."

spider-man didn't leave your side until the police came. he even stayed as you conferred with the police, remaining quiet throughout the entirety of the procedure. once they drove away, with your attacker, he turned back to you.

"would you like for me to walk you home?"

you nodded, "i-i'm about to miss curfew. i'll save you the trouble."

spider-man offered you his hand, "i have a quicker route. do you trust me?"

you nodded, taking his hand. god if your parents found out about what happened tonight, they would never let you out at night ever again. as long as you made curfew you would be all right.

he wrapped an arm around you, slinging a web onto a building. you became frozen with fear, as you were scared of heights. spider-man must have sensed your fear, because he wrapped his arm tightly around your waist.

"don't worry, i got you. you're safe with me."

with your directions, you got home in time for curfew. you said your goodbyes to the masked hero, and he slung off into the night, disappearing into the glittering lights of the city.

as you slept that night, the only thought on your mind was how familiar that voice was. who was spider-man? was his identity easier to crack than you thought?

******

you slid your lunch tray onto the table, already exhausted with the school day. your best friends, peter, ned, and m.j., were already chowing down on their lunch. peter and ned were in a heavy discussion about their LEGO Death Star model, while m.j. was silently sketching in her notebook.

"so i was almost raped last night," you stated, your tone solemn.

"WHAT?" ned choked on his sandwich, "what happened? are you okay?"

you nodded, picking at your salad, "yeah, I'm fine. spider-man swooped in and saved me. he even stayed with me until the police arrived, and then took me home."

peter immediately perked up at the mention of spider-man, "i'm glad you're okay. maybe you should start walking home with somebody, just to be on the safe side."

you scoffed, "peter i have been roaming the streets of queens since i was eleven. my parents raised me well. i know how to protect myself. that's why i carry mace with me. but thank you, for the suggestion. last night was just some weird encounter with some weirdo. the good thing is that i am safe and without harm."

"yeah," m.j. agreed, "we've all been running the streets since we were in middle school, peter. we all know how to protect ourselves. i think last night was just weird for (y/n)."

peter frowned, "i just care about my friend, that's all."

"hey," ned began, "i was thinking that maybe we could all hang out friday night? my mom and pops are going to be out of town for the weekend so all of you guys could stay the night."

you felt yourself smile, "that sounds fun! can i bring some snacks?"

"you know i wouldn't turn down snacks," ned laughed, "but yeah, i think i'll order some pizza for us, and we can watch trashy romantic comedies all night."

"i won't be over till later," peter mumbled.

"how late is later?" you felt yourself frown again.

"like ten," peter replied, not looking at you or any of your friends.

"weird but okay," m.j. shrugged, "just means there's more pizza for me. you're going to be missing out parker but it's cool. do whatever you gotta do for that internship or whatever."

"see you guys tomorrow night," ned flashed us a wide smile, "it should be a lot of fun."

******

"hey, shouldn't peter be here by now," m.j. glanced at the clock. it was 10:08 p.m., and still no sign of peter.

so far you, ned, and m.j. were all having tons of fun. you guys had ordered pizza, watched a movie or two, talked about your future plans, and also made another time to hang out. the only person that would complete the group was peter, and he was nowhere to be found. he wasn't answering any of his texts or calls.

ned and m.j. didn't seem too concerned, as they were just chatting happily about what to name the kitten ned was about to adopt from a shelter next week. you sighed, "i'm going to go call my parents really quick, i'll be right back."

"okay," ned nodded, "take your time."

since they were in ned's room, you slipped out of the apartment, heading towards the roof. you just wanted some peace and quiet for a second. you also wanted to call peter and make sure he was still coming. ned was dying to eat the last few pizza slices, but you guys were saving those for peter.

once you were on the roof, you noticed a figure sitting on the edge. you felt your throat tighten, and you instinctively clutched your can of mace on your keychain. you didn't want wednesday night to happen all over again. the memory frightened you too much.

"hey," your voice was firm, "who are you?"

as you approached the figure, you felt yourself soften. it was spider-man, donned in his red and blue suit. he must not have heard you, as he kept his head focused on the city skyline.

"hey!" you called again, and this time he turned.

you felt yourself stiffen. there sat peter, a cut on his lip, along with a slight black eye. suddenly, everything clicked into place. you remembered why spider-man's voice was familiar. spider-man was peter parker, one of your best friends.

"oh my god," you choked out, "peter?"

he sprang up, "listen, (y/n), i can explain everything, i promise."

"how?" you suddenly felt guarded, "how are you going to explain to me this huge fucking secret that you've been hiding from everyone?"

peter's voice was quiet, "ned and m.j., they know. they both know."

you felt tears spring up in your eyes, how could they all be hiding this big secret from you? you guys had all been friends since middle school. the four of you had been through a lot: the first year of high school, the death of peter's uncle, a couple of divorces between parents. how could they be hiding something like this from you?

"great," that was the only word that came out of your mouth, "so how was i supposed to find out? because i assume you guys were going to just keep sneaking this behind my back. you guys are some pretty crappy friends you know that? it really shows what kind of friend you are, peter."

peter flinched, as if your words were pure venom, "(y/n), i didn't just tell them. ned was at my apartment, in my room, when he found out. m.j., she was smart enough to fit all of the pieces together. i didn't tell them just because i wanted to hide it from you. i wanted to keep this part of me hid away from everyone. it's a lot safer that way. no one is targeted or harmed."

"does your aunt know?" your lip trembled, and you wiped your nose with your sleeve.

the tears were spilling over onto your cheeks. a flash of embarrassment passed through you. this was the first time in a while peter had seen you cry. you felt like you looked like a wreck.

"she found out the hard way," he stated, "she walked in on me in my suit. i had to explain everything to her. besides, she's the only family i have. of course i'm close with the avengers, and tony stark, but she's my family. she had a right to know sooner, and i felt guilty for never telling her in the beginning. hell, i felt guilt everyday because you guys didn't know. you, ned, and m.j., you guys are my best friends. you guys deserved to know, too. but i felt safer hiding the truth because if other people find out, really evil people, you all could be the first to get hurt. and i don't want that. i don't want my family hurt. i don't want my friends hurt. i don't want the girl i love, hurt."

“and who’s that,” you sniffled, “m.j.?”

"no," peter shook his head, approaching you, "the girl i love is you, (y/n). i love you."

pink spread into your cheeks at his words, and you bit your lip. you had the biggest crush on peter, and you had feelings for him almost the entirety of your friendship. that's why you always cared about him so much and his disappearances. it worried you sometimes when he wasn't at school, or when he never showed up to hangout with the friend group. but now, you had an explanation to everything. and you weren't sure how to feel.

a part of you was extremely hurt that your friends hid this big secret from you. you guys told each other everything. you even talked about your previous boyfriends, sex life, etc. to them. the least they all could have done was sit you down and explain everything.

yet, a large part of you wasn't hurt. you were relieved that peter felt the same way about you. you wanted to start a relationship with him, but you were never sure how. now, was your opportunity, especially since he feels the same way.

"peter," you drew in a breath, cupping his cheek with your hand, "i love you too."

he smiled slightly, "that makes me really happy to hear."

"i'm still kind of upset about this," you admitted, your eyes locking with his.

"i understand why," he assured you, "it was wrong of me to exclude you from this part of my life. it's just all because i want to keep you safe. more than anything i want you to be safe. if something ever happened to you, god, i don't know what i would do. i would be so lost."

"you don't have to worry about losing me or anything like that," you reassured him, placing a gentle kiss on his cheek.

"something almost happened the other night," peter mumbled, "i was so relieved that i was able to stop that guy from hurting you."

"me too," you murmured, "thank you for saving me."

"you don't have to thank me for protecting you," peter chuckled, "i want to protect you regardless."

"peter!" a voice made you freeze. you both looked over to see m.j. and ned had found their way onto the roof.

"hey guys," peter waved, "how's the sleepover?"

"it's okay," m.j. shrugged, "i could tell (y/n) was going through a crisis waiting for you. she looked like a lost puppy."

"hey," your voice was indignant, "it's not my fault. i care about him a lot."

"so it comes out," ned teased you, "well how about you clean up, peter, and then we can start a movie. maybe i'll be nice and let you two share the love seat."

you four walked back to ned's apartment, peter's arm wrapped around your shoulders. once you guys were back in the apartment, he changed out of his suit. once peter was all changed and fed, you guys settled in the living room. peter let you curl up against him on the couch, and you guys cuddled all night long.

you felt safe in peter's arms, and you knew he would keep ensuring you felt safe for a very long time.

[crystalwillow]

Pitter Patter, Part One

Pairing: Bryce Lahela x Georgia Valentine (F!MC)

Collab With: @brycelahelalover

Word Count: 4.5K

We loved our last collab we done last time that @brycelahelalover and I decided to do another one. In this one Bryce and F!MC are having a baby and learning to become the best parents they can be, so their child doesn’t have to experience what they did as children. I am adding some personal feelings and thoughts to my part of this collab. So it is a little but about me and what type of person I was going through school and my thought process and how that has developed over the years up until now, when I’m 22. I hope you enjoy this one! Remember to keep an eye out for part 2 which will be posted by Chahnaz, as well as a little side story she wants to write too.

=================================

She had always had a hard time trusting people, but in particular, she’d had a hard time trusting men all her life. She was the shy kid in school who had a small group of people she would hang out with and if they weren’t at school she would always find a quiet spot to sit by herself and pass the time by sitting studying for a subject as she ate her lunch. She never caught anyone’s eye, meaning she never had a relationship. Though that was much to her relief as she already had enough to deal with, and there was no way she could handle a relationship. So when she started her time at Edenbrook hospital after graduating med school, she had no idea that she would be where she is now at 31.

--- 8 Years Earlier ---

“You seriously don’t see children in your future?! Like at all?”

Georgia shook her head as she swallowed her bite of pasta salad at the question asked by one of her friends, Angelica.

“Nope. Not at all.”

“Why?”

Georgia shrugged. “I just... don’t feel like that’s in the cards for me so why bother thinking about it?”

Angelica smiled sadly and gently rubbed Georgia’s wrist before saying goodbye and heading back behind the counter of the coffee shop to continue with her work, leaving her friend to study for an exam.

--- Present Day ---

Bryce sat up in bed with a loud yawn as he stretched out, the person beside him groaning in tired annoyance. “Shut up.” they mumbled, rolling over and stuffing the pillow over their head. Bryce grinned lazily before laying over them and resting his head on the pillow. “Ahhh yes. Much comfier... I should have ordered the Georgia style mattress when I brought the frame instead.” he teased. “Get off of me you fat oaf.” Georgia protested, her voice muffled beneath the pillow.

“It even talks.. cool. Creepy.. but still cool. Tell me, do you love me?”

“Yes. You know I do.”

“mhm. Are you in love with me.”

“Bryce...” she sighed.

“Tell me.”

“I can’t breathe. I’ll tell you that for free. Anything else and you’re gonna have to pay.”

Bryce Chuckled rolling off of her and back onto his half of the bed, Georgia throwing the pillow off of her head.

“Wow. You are RED.”

“And you’re clearly in the wrong profession, Sherlock Holmes.” She retorted smugly.

Bryce looked at his girlfriend with his trademark smirk and eyes sparkling with mischief before launching himself at her and smothering her with affectionate kisses and a massive hug, resting his head in the crook of her neck as she hugged him back.

“We need to get up Bryce.”

“I don’t want to.”

“We have to. I have work and you have shopping to do.”

Bryce groaned into Georgia’s neck and she laughed at him. “Come on.”

“Nope.”

“Bryce.”

“Ugh, finee. But you owe me later.”

“I’ll make it up to you, promise.”

“You had better.”

--- 4 Hours Later ---

Georgia was walking through a hall on her way to the cafeteria to get some coffee, when a blur of colour zoomed past knocking her into the wall. “Oof.” she said aloud as someone came back around the corner, when she met the persons eyes she took in a sharp breath. Bryce looked at her apologetically.

“Sorry babe.”

“No, it’s okay. What are you doing here anyway? I thought it was your day off?”

“It was supposed to be, but I’ve been called in to assist on an emergency surgery. We’ll have to finish the shopping together later.”

“Oh. Okay, well... good luck.” She smiled and went up on tiptoe to give him a quick kiss before he rushed off again. As she trudged onward, Georgia ran into Zaid who waved her over.

“What’s up?” she asked as she stopped beside him

“Baz told me that you’re needed upstairs.”

“Oh. Okay, thank you.” She smiled as Zaid nodded curtly and left, leaving Georgia to go up to the diagnostics office.

When she got there the team was already half way through a differential, she took a seat and done her best to catch up despite the fiery death glares her boss was giving her. They were strong enough that she could have sworn her skin was burning.

“That would be everything for now. And Valentine.”

“Y-yes, Dr. Ramsey?”

“I won’t accept tardiness on my team. If it happens again you can kiss your spot goodbye. Understood?”

“Yes, Dr. Ramsey, Sir.”

She bowed and backed out of the room as if he was royalty before turning around and heading off to her patients again. Later in the day she met up with Bryce and they went to finish the grocery shopping together. Though the car ride there seemed quiet and tense as Georgia looked out of the window with a distant look in her eyes.

“Are you okay sweetheart?” Bryce asked, concern on his face as he darted glances to the seat beside him. But he got no answer. “Geor-”

“I’m fine.” She snapped out of seemingly nowhere forcing Bryce into a silence making the atmosphere in the car very awkward. When they reached the parking lot of the store and Bryce killed the engine after parking the car she spoke up again. “You stay here. I’ll get everything we need.”

She still had that tone in her voice and Bryce could tell she was doing it again. Trying to put distance between them, and it was then he registered what the look in her eyes truly was. A mix of fear and uncertainty. Sighing, he locked them in the car and took her hand in his tentatively and stroked the back with his other spare one. “Babe. It’s okay.” He whispered looking at her even though she refused to look back at him. “I understand that you get scared. And that’s okay, Just please... don’t push me away. I’m here for you Georgia. Through whatever life will throw at you. I’m in your corner.” He watched for a reaction from her, but she just shook her head as she blinked back tears. “Oh sugarplum.” He sighed, unbuckling her seatbelt and pulling her into his lap. She silently snuggled closer into him as he rubbed soothing circles onto her back and kissed the top of her head delicately as if she was an expensive piece of antique china porcelain he couldn’t afford to break. Georgia cried quietly into his chest until she fell asleep, Bryce laying her in the back of the car and covering her with a blanket before locking the car and heading inside to do the shopping himself. By the time she woke up, they were back at Bryce’s apartment and her head was in Bryce’s lap as he watched a show on TV whilst absentmindedly playing with her hair. Her slight movement and yawn alerted him to the fact she was awake now. He glanced down to find her glistening green eyes looking up at him, they were still tired and had a mix of emotions flowing through them.

“Hey.” He said with a soft smile at her, which she returned.

“Hey.” She whispered back, sitting up to stretch some more before laying back in Bryce’s lap, his hand going back to playing with her hair. “I’m sorry for earlier.” She mumbled, staring at the screen as if it was a window.

Bryce sighed. “It’s alright. You’ve explained everything to me before. I’m not mad. You’re perception of men hasn’t exactly been the greatest growing up. Your dad wasn’t the best, your mom only ever dated men who would break her heart and was too stubborn to end things because she didn’t want to give the man the satisfaction of her doing so. And I’m your first ever love. Navigating a relationship when you haven’t had the best examples is hard, I get that. I mean, look at my parents. I’m blessed because they stayed together, but... they weren’t the best example of what love should be. When I say I’m in your corner, I mean it. We’re in this whole adventure together. It’s new and scary for both of us, but don’t let the feeling of fear rule your thoughts. I’m not leaving you, I love you too much. I’d be insane to leave such a beautiful woman. There’s nobody like you. You’re smart, funny, caring. You may not see it yourself but you’re also very courageous at times. Nothing is going to change the way I feel about you, ever.”

Georgia smiled at him as a tear rolled down her cheek. She had only been awake for approximately 5 minutes and he had made her cry. Bryce looked down when he heard a sniffle and looked at her with a look of adoration mixed with concern.

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah. It’s just... you’re so sweet when were together. Why don’t you show this side more often?”

“You mean in public with our friends?”

She nodded.

“Because this side of me is reserved for moments like this. Where it is just us, and I can be as sappy and loving and worshipping of you as I like without judgement from the likes of Jackie.”

“Bryce...” Georgia smiled genuinely as he bent down to press a soft kiss to her lips. She kissed him back, and when they pulled away their lips were a little plumper.

--- 3 Weeks Later ---

Bryce sighed as he got into his car after one of the most intense surgeries he had conducted, he was equal parts worried as he was tired. What was so urgent that Georgia wanted to speak about? He was taken over by confusion as he drove towards his apartment where he knew his girlfriend was waiting for him. As he parked in the lot of the complex, he took a moment to breathe as he killed the engine before heading upstairs on tired feet. As he opened the door, the familiar smell of his favourite rice dish hit his nostrils and he perked up a bit before dread overtook his senses. If she had cooked his favourite meal what was this about if not breaking up? He stepped over the threshold and closed the door, tossing his keys into the bowl on the table by the door, and hung his jacket on the coat stand, before kicking his shoes off and wriggling his toes with a sigh of relief.

“Bryce!”

“Ah!!” he screamed as his girlfriend ran over and jumped into his arms, hugging tightly.

“I missed you today.”

“I missed you too, honey” he yawned.

Georgia lead him to the couch and sat him down. “You relax here. Dinner is almost ready.” She said with a smile and kiss to his cheek before heading back to his kitchen. When she returned she was carrying a tray that had a massive bowl of rice and chicken on it.

“I’m too tired to lift a fork right now babe. I just got out of an 11 hour surgery and-”

“Stop right there. That’s why there’s only one bowl, I’m going to feed you because you need to eat.”

Bryce smiled with a small chuckle. “You’re going to make an amazing mother to our children one day. You know that?” He asked as he turned his head to look at her, suddenly feeling more alert when he registered how serious her expression had turned. “Is... Is that what you wanted to talk about?”

“Yeah...”

Georgia placed the tray on the coffee table and sat next to him as he sat forwards and turned his body to face her, and they took each other’s hands.

“Is there something wrong? Are you unable to have them? Because that doesn’t matter if that’s the problem, we can adopt. There’s hundreds of children looking for loving homes. And.”

“Bryce. Will you shut up for one minute and let me talk?” she asked as she cocked an eyebrow at him.

“Yeah. Of course, sorry. I just.”

“It’s okay. I understand. But I wanted to talk about it because I think I’m ready. To start trying for a child. That is.. if you are too?” she said with hopefulness in her tone.

Bryce looked at her as a silence stretched out between them, he watched in awed perplexation as she lightly bit her lower lip, internally asking himself if this was really happening and if he was ready for this step in their relationship too. After a while, Georgia started to get worried.

“Babe? ... B-Bryce?” she asked, her voice loud in the silence bringing Bryce back to the present moment. He looked down at their hands held in one another’s a small smile creeping onto his features as hot tears of emotion pricked his eyes. He looked up to be met with her green orbs sparkling with a mix of emotions as he cleared his throat.

“Yeah.” He nodded, squeezing her hands. “I’m ready too.”

Time seemed to stop in that moment for them yet still go on around them as they hugged tightly whispering sweet nothings to each other and shared kisses that were equally as sweet. They shared the bowl of food and washed it down with their favourite drinks before they both headed to bed, exhausted from their days.

Two months after their discussion, Bryce and Georgia started trying seriously for a child. Soon the days turned to weeks, weeks to months and months to almost a full year until the morning of his 33rd birthday Bryce was woken up by an ear-piercing scream. He flew out of bed and into the bathroom where he found Georgia on the floor crying, and spotted a pregnancy test on the side. He walked over and risked peaking at it, breath catching in his throat as he saw it.

“Babe...” he said quietly as he crouched beside her and pulled her into a hug. Tears glistening his eyes too. Georgia couldn’t manage any words that morning as they got ready and made their way to work other than what food she wanted from the coffee shop as they stopped off on their way to Edenbrook. When they reached the hospital they stopped in the atrium and took a seat on a bench close to the main doors.

“How are you feeling?” Bryce asked

“.... Shocked. I...”

Bryce smiled and squeezed her hand tightly, conveying he knew exactly how she felt with his touch and the look he gave her.

“I wasn’t ready to see a positive after so many negatives. I just. I can hardly process my thoughts. I... How are you feeling?” she asked back looking into his eyes only to be met with a warm, excited smile.

“Honestly. Pretty great, this is like, the best birthday present ever.”

Georgia froze as she suddenly remembered what day it was.

“Ohmygosh. I’m so sorry, I’d planned to cook breakfast for you and everything. Not wake you up by screaming and crying on your bathroom floor.”

“It’s fine babe, honestly. But I have been meaning to talk to you about us too.”

“You have?”

Bryce nodded, uncertainty clouding his eyes for a brief moment before being replaced by his trademark happiness. “I’ve been thinking maybe we should move in together now. I mean, we’re taking the step of having a child, so it only makes sense we live in the same place now instead of separately. Which has been torturous for me by the way.” He said teasingly.

Georgia smiled at him. “We should give it thought for today and talk it over in more detail tonight after work, back at my place.”

“Yeah, sure. No problem.”

They both leaned forward for a kiss, but it was cut short at the sound of a familiar voice ringing out through the atrium.

“VALENTINE!”

Georgia cringed at the sound of Dr. Ramsey’s voice and pulled away with a sigh. “Sorry. I should.. get going.” She whispered.

“Okay. Come. Find me. Later.” Bryce said with a smile, kissing her between each word.

Georgia gave him a smile and returned his kisses before taking her bag and following her boss up to the office to start her day at work.

Inside the office before the morning consult started, Dr. Ramsey rounded on the young doctor.

“You’ve had all morning to suck face rookie, I suggest if you want to do it for longer that you give up your spot for someone who will value it and not act with such reckless abandon.”

“Are you a female, Dr. Ramsey?”

“I’m sorry?” He asked, everyone looking at Georgia confused.

“Are you a female? Did you find out this morning that your pregnant? Is it your boyfriends birthday? And last but certainly not least, is the topic of later discussion with your boyfriend already in your mind? In other words... Are you walking amongst the clouds this morning, Dr. Ramsey?”

“I-”

“You’re pregnant?! Congratulations.” Baz exclaimed happily, wrapping her in a hug. “I’m going to be an uncle, can you believe it?!”

“I’m sure Zaid is going to be thrilled.” A stuck up voice said

“Excuse me. Zaid Mirani is very good with children and not half as bad as he portrays himself.” Georgia said defensively to the posh, stuck up woman who had replaced June’s spot on the team.

“And for future reference, you address Dr. Ramsey with respect as he dese-”

“I suggest you, Dr. Portavia, address the members of my team who have been here longer than you with respect. Including myself. Dr. Valentine is well within her rights to talk to me as she was. We have somewhat of a friendship outside of these walls, I take the boss position too harshly sometimes in moments where I shouldn’t. Now. If we are done with the arguments?”

The team sat around the table. Baz next to Georgia as always and 2 seats left empty between themselves and Dr. Portavia as Dr. Ramsey briefed the team on their new patient.

---

Consumed by the busyness of her day and lost in the amount of tasks she had to do, Georgia completely lost track of time until she ran into Bryce and saw him in his regular clothes.

“Hey babe.” She greeted with a smile and quick kiss before turning to her patients chart she had placed on the desk of the nurses station.

“Hey.” Bryce said back with a yawn. “How are you?”

“Pretty good. Today is hectic but I’d be lying if that wasn’t one of the aspects of this job that excites me.”

“Today? Honey, when was the last time you sat down?”

“In the diagnostics office after I left you this morning.”

“Have you eaten?”

“Yes. I’ve had a cereal bar that was in my pocket. Other than that I’ve just been keeping my water intake way up. ... Not really had the chance to stop for longer than 2 minutes.”

“And... what day is it?”

Georgia gave a chuckle. “It’s your birthday silly.” But her expression fell as she took in the serious look of concern on Bryce’s face. “Wh-what is it?”

“It’s 4:27am of the day after my birthday.”

“What? No it’s not.”

“Georgia. I’ve been waiting at your place for you all night.”

“But...”

“No buts. You’re clocking out and coming home with me. Now.”

Georgia sighed as she felt sadness and a pang of guilt radiate in her chest. She’d missed her boyfriend’s birthday completely, and now she felt completely rotten.

“Oh. O-okay then. I’ll just... get my... stuff.” She stuttered before heading off to the locker room. Bryce flagging down a nearby nurse and asking them to keep an eye on all of her patients. On their way out they passed Ethan coming into the hospital. He stopped in his tracks as he heard Bryce’s hushed words towards Georgia.

“...you’re pregnant now. You can’t pull almost 24 hour shifts and survive on cereal bars and water anymore. You need to take care of 2 people now.”

Equal parts intrigued and worried, Ethan called out to them.

“Valentine. Lahela.”

Georgia and Bryce stopped in their tracks and turned to him.

“Hey Eth- Dr. Ramsey.” Georgia said sweetly whilst Bryce gave a curt nod to the attending.

“Are you only now going home?” Ethan asked

“I uh...”

“She is. Though I don’t see why it concerns you.” Bryce said coolly

“Bryce. He’s my boss.”

“Right.”

An intense awkward moment passed between the three of them as Bryce stared as Ethan with his chest puffed out, holding Georgia’s hand protectively. They all knew why, but Bryce needn’t worry. Ethan was aware that Georgia didn’t reciprocate his feelings towards her in a romantic way and they were contently settled on being friends. That didn’t stop Bryce from being protective of what was his though, he felt it was his duty to protect her from other bachelors. Young or old.

It was Ethan who broken the silence. “Right, well um. Take the day off and rest properly. I’ll see you tomorrow Valentine.” He said with a soft smile and single nod before heading to the elevators, Bryce walking out to his car still protectively holding Georgia’s hand. When they got back to her apartment Bryce carried Georgia up to her front door, only placing her on her feet to open the door before picking her up again and taking her inside and straight to her bed.

“Keep your butt planted here, I’ll heat up your dinner.”

“Okay.”

Bryce turned quickly and made his way to the kitchen so that Georgia wouldn’t see the worry in his eyes. When he came back with a plate full of steaming hot food, he found the bed empty.

“Babe?” he sighed, placing the plate on the bedside table

“Yeah?”

Bryce turned around and saw Georgia behind him.

“I thought I told you to keep your butt on the bed?”

“I needed to pee.”

“... so?”

“So I went. I wasn’t going to pee my bed Bryce.”

Bryce sighed with dejected tiredness. “Just. Eat your dinner, I’ll come by later or sometime tomorrow and we can talk about moving in together then okay?”

“You... aren’t going to stay?”

“I have a shift that starts in an hour and a half. I can’t.”

“Oh. Okay. Well um, see you later. I love you!” Georgia called out as Bryce moved past her and out of the front door. Guilt settled in Georgia’s chest as she heard the door close behind him, her ‘I love you.’ left unreturned.

--- The Next Day ---

It was late in the afternoon the next day and Georgia was half way through her rounds when she bumped into someone’s chest as she rounded a corner.

“Oh! Sor- Oh. Bryce.” She said as she turned her gaze to the floor and maneuvered around him and carried on her way. She hadn’t seen or heard from him since he left her in her apartment to head to work the previous morning, so she knew to avoid him. It had always been that way for her, she had a good relationship with someone, things went great, then she got carried away with something she loves to do and makes them mad, they don’t talk to her, she avoids them. So when Bryce caught her arm gently and pulled her back, it took her by surprise and her breath hitched.

“I have work to do. I need to get to the lab.” She said professionally never meeting his gaze.

“I’ll walk with yo-”

“No. I’m internal medicine. You’re a surgeon. There’s no reason we need to be walking together unless we’re heading to the same patient room.”

“I’m also your boyfriend.”

“Are you? Because the last time I checked, even if a boyfriend is mad with their other half, they at least send them a message saying hey, hoping their okay and ending it with I love you. Which by the way, you never returned. So if you’ll excuse me, I have to get some run-ups done on these blood samples.” Georgia huffed as she turned on her heel and stomped towards the labs.

“Georgia!” Bryce called out as he chased her through the halls.

“Just leave me alone, Bryce.”

“Would you just talk to me for a second and tell me what’s wrong?!”

Georgia halted to an abrupt stop.

“I told you what’s wrong Bryce. You’ve not text me back, you’ve ignored my calls and you never returned my ‘I love you.’ yesterday. I’m pregnant with your goddamn child and you’re acting like one all because I lost track of time and almost worked 24 hours! I get that could have endangered the baby but I’m a doctor, Bryce. I was going to eat a proper meal as soon as I got home.”

“And when was that going to be?”

“As soon as I’d filled in those charts and said goodnight to my patients. I was 20 minutes from being done for the day when you dragged me away.”

“I did not drag you!”

“I’m not saying you physically dragged me.”

“Then what are you saying?”

Georgia just gave him a look and just like he had done to her, walked away from him without another word, leaving Bryce to throw his arms up in exasperation before heading back to work. Soon months had passed, and Georgia was now 7 months pregnant. She and Bryce got over there little bump and had made the decision to move into a 3 bed house close to Edenbrook, which they had both gotten the day off of work to move into properly. Georgia watched from the top of the stairs as Bryce carried in the last box from his car, kicking the door shut behind him. Feeling her gaze on him, he looked up flashing his trademark grin with a wink.

“Like what you see?”

“What I see impregnated me, sooo..”

“Fair point.” He chuckled then pointed to the box. “Last one. Where’s it going? It’s not labelled.”

“In our bedroom.” Georgia smiled before heading towards the nursery to carry on clicking the pieces of the plastic drawers that would hold the toys together. She was clicking the wheels in place when Bryce came in the room smiling at her.

“What?” Georgia asked with a brow raised in curiosity.

“Nothing. I just feel like a proper adult now. I have a job, a beautiful girlfriend, we have a baby on the way and we just got our first place together.” He said, sitting next to her and pulling her to his chest as he leant back on the wall. Georgia smiling up at him. “Yeah. It does feel pretty great doesn’t it?” she smiled. They stayed there in the spot for a while, just looking out of the window and watching the trees swaying in the wind before carrying on with building, and setting things up. After a long day moving into their new house, they settled into bed after enjoying a warm bubble bath together, excited for the day they would be able to finally meet their bundle of joy.

[fluffyunicornofdanger]

Stability

A/N: My dudes, I’m so sorry that I have been kinda MIA. I finally got the Steven Tyler fic out that I had been working on for ages. Well, I’ve been working on this one for a lot longer and it’s finally finished. I hope to get all my current requests done soon. Let’s hope in a timely manner. I just need to get my butt in gear and sit down and write this shit. I also hope to have the second part to songs for any occasion done soon. But, time flies when you’re doing just about anything, so we’ll see. Requests are open and I hope you enjoy. Love you guys!!!

*~~*~~*

Masterlist

Slash x Reader

Summary: Y/n’s parents are like every uptight Christian parents of the 80s. So, thinking Footloose would be the right direction. They want nothing to do with rock music and want to keep their daughter far from it. That is until she starts dating a man in a rock band. Now, Y/n’s afraid that they may never see him the same way she does.

Word Count: 1.5k

Warnings: None??? (Slash is referred to by his actual name because Y/n’s parents definitely wouldn’t approve if they had to call him Slash).

Y/n sighed, bored with the conversation that had been going on for what felt like hours even though it had been mere minutes. It wasn’t like it was the first time she’d had to have the conversation - it seemed that every time she’d mention or alluded to rock this conversation would start.

“I’m not saying you can’t date him, Y/n,” her father told her while he flipped through a stack of bills. “All I’m saying is that he isn’t good enough for you. Will he be able to support you once his music career fails? Will he even want to marry you or just discard you once he gets bored?”

Y/n rolled her eyes, leaning against the kitchen counter, wishing nuclear fall out were an option.

Her mother nodded from her place in front of the stove. “Your father has a point, dear. Stability is key to a happy life and he may not be able to offer you that,” she told her daughter while she stirred the pot in front of her. “So, why waste your time with him if you may never get married?”

Like always, she just shrugged. There was no use in arguing as her parents weren’t going to listen to reason. They were those good Christians that the 80s were known for. And like good Christians of the time, rock music was what the devil listened to and Ronald Reagan was the ideal president. Why not? Y/n didn’t care much for politics, so she never cared to understand what was so great about the president. Rock, on the other hand, was something she cared about but her parents never wanted to hear about.

They had been sucked in on the propaganda about the musical genre that had spread around the neighborhood. Anything of the genre was outlawed in her house, which was alright with her. She was limited when around them and anyone else her parents associated with, but she still had freedom outside of the house. As much as her parents wanted to create a safe enviorment like the pastor in Footloose, it wasn’t going to happen. Whether they liked it or not, she listened to the Devil’s music more than she listened to God’s words. 

But what really hurt wasn’t that she couldn’t enjoy herself at home and do as she pleased, it was that anything remotely related to that dreadful music wasn’t good enough for her parents. Y/n didn’t care if they liked the same music she did or called her favorite artists and bands Satanist, what she cared about was that they wouldn’t even given the man she loved a chance.

Y/n groaned, sucking in a deep breath. “Who said I want to get married? And that’s not even close to what I was talking about.”

“Than what were you talking about, dear?” her father asked, hiding behind a newspaper. 

“I just wanted to know if Saul could come over for dinner or something like that. You know, so I don’t have to hear any more about how he’s not good enough for me from the two of you when you haven’t even met him.”

“I’ll think about.”

She rolled her eyes, pushing herself off the counter. “You do that, dad, you do that.”

*~~*~~*

Saul rocked on his heels nervously, waiting for the door to open. He had been excited to meet Y/n’s parents, after all, his parents were head over heels in love with her. They wanted to be around her more than him, which stung a little. But, damn, it was better than them hating her. After a few seconds, the door opened, exposing an older woman that Saul assumed to be Y/n’s mother.

Opening the door all the way, the woman smiled, “You must be Saul.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Do come it.” She moved out of the way to let him in. “Y/n will be out in a minute. Why don’t we take a seat in the living room.”

It was odd how formal the woman was, but at least she was kind. Her smile didn’t meet her eyes, but how many smiles really did? Y/n didn’t talk about her parents often, but when she did nothing good was said. From what he’d gathered, they were people pleasers and one with the crowd. But, some people were like that, society bred people that way and it took too much strength for some to break away from the crowd. 

Stepping into the living, the guitarist glanced over the photos and paintings that dawned the wall. Pictures of Y/n as a small child among her family on vacations, Christmas, and school events. Even if she complained, at least her parents were present. Saul let out a small sigh as he made his way over to the couch, pillows and a blanket strategically placed. He could hear what he thought sounded like a knife hitting a cutting board and feet hitting stairs. Not even a few seconds pasted before Y/n walked into the living room, a huge smile upon her face.

“I’m so glad you’re here,” she said with a smile, embracing him before looking over his apparel. “And I’m so glad you finally figured out how to dress nicely.”

He scoffed, rolling his eyes. “My mother happened to teach me how to do that, I’ll have you know.”

Y/n glanced behind her to see her mom walk off to the kitchen. Turning to her boyfriend, she let her shoulders relax. Around Saul, she didn’t have to be the good girl her parents wanted her to be. Around him, it seemed that anything and everything was possible. There were no cookie cutters or boxes that she couldn’t think outside of. The world was her’s to conquer with him by her side and she hoped, she prayed to god, that her parents would see that he was more than just some drugged-up rock star.

“She didn’t give you a hard time, did she?”

Saul shook his head, giving her a small smile. “She was actually really polite. You made her out to sound like she tears heads off of children.”

Y/n laughed, shaking her head. Her mother, tear of heads, not a chance. “She would never do such a thing, not with god watching. And I don’t know why I expected less from her. She’s a saint, I’ll have you know.”

“Then I’m sure my mother will love her. They can discuss saintly things over tea,” he joked, running a hand through his hair, which he through into a neat ponytail. 

“My mom doesn’t like tea.”

“Coffee then.”

Before any more could be discussed on what the potential meeting of their mothers, Y/n’s mom poked her head into the room, her presence silencing their conversation. 

“Dinner’s ready if you two will head to the table.”

*~~*~~*

With food piled on their plates, everyone was silent. Y/n munched on her green beans, trying to pretend she couldn’t feel the tension that filled the air. Saul seemed unfazed, but Y/n knew better than to believe that. He played cool whether he was internally or not. That was how he went through life. He’s acting skills were amazing whether he knew he possed them or not.

“Y/n tells me your a musician,” her father stated, picking through his salad.

“Yeah, I am,” he confirmed.

Her father shook his head, disappointment written all over it. She knew he was hoping for a different answer. “I hear there isn’t much money in that. Have you considered any other career options?”

Y/n let out a sigh, wishing the world would just swallow her whole. It was no surprise to her that this conversation would come up, but she wished it didn’t matter. The average blue-collar job isn’t for everyone, her father should have known that. Her grandfather was a member of the circus for years. Of course, no one talked about it because it wasn’t an acceptable job in their minds, it still paid the bills.  

Placing his silverware on the table, Saul thought for a moment before looking the man in the eye. “Well, I have thought of other career options but I have no passion for them. I know, without a doubt, that music will never be boring to me. Plumbing or accounting or anything else, sure I may make more money doing that, but how long until I get bored? And to be honest, sir, money means nothing to me. It may buy you fancy things, but it really can’t buy happiness, that’s found in the heart.”

Y/n’s father was speechless, but not angry like Y/n and her mother thought he would be. His eyes seemed to light up right before his lips tugged into a smile. “That is a better answer than I gave your father,” he turned to his wife, shaking his head. If only he was smart enough to think of an answer like that.

Y/n couldn’t help but smile with him as she realized that Saul was at least acceptable in her father’s eyes. Her mother, well… she would eventually see the same thing Y/n did. But at least there was no fear of them not approving of him.

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

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[aiikawarazu]

Hourglass Chapter #19

Title: Serendipity

Rated: M

Summary:  Armin fought to prove Mikasa’s innocence, while Mikasa and Eren both tried to find a way to overcome the incident between them, and come to term with their feelings.

FFNet here

Disclaimer: I do not own Shingeki no Kyojin (I wish I did... then I wouldn’t make them suffer as much...)

- All of this isn't a coincidence

Just just my own feelings -

It was, to put it short, a very beautiful day for winter.

It was chilly still, just several degrees above zero. But Mikasa checked the weather forecast in her phone early that morning before heading to school – and there should be no rain nor snow today. It was, finally, a winter day full of sunshine.

However, Mikasa could feel nothing in her heart except dark, gloomy, out-of-the-mood irony.

"Mikasa! Breakfast is ready!" She heard her mom calling her from downstairs. "Coming!" she answered. But she didn't budge from her place in front of the mirror. Carefully, she took out a hairbrush and started brushing her hair, trying to find any strands to detangle, staring at her reflection absent-mindedly.

Actually she knew, her smooth black strands required no more brushing. She was just trying to put off going to school for as long as possible.

"Mikasa!" Her mother called the second time. Mikasa heaved a deep sigh and put down her hairbrush. She took a pair of fresh socks and started putting them on, taking her time to do it much more slowly than usual. She counted until five minutes had passed. Then she ran down the stairs just as her mother was about to call her the third time.

"Finally," she said. "What took you so long…?"

"I woke up late, sorry," she apologized and took her seat on the table. Her mother had cooked her some eggs, along with fresh vegetable salad. Mikasa began scooping rice into her bowl and grabbed her chopsticks, while Kyoko helped her with two pieces of sunny-side up. "Eat your veggies," she reminded her daughter. Mikasa nodded wordlessly and started digging in.

Truth was, she really didn't want to go to school. Maybe she should pretend that she had a fever. But her mother would know as soon as she checked her temperature.

Mikasa let out another sigh before she knew it. Her mother raised an eyebrow.

"Is something wrong?"

Yes, Mikasa wanted to answer.

If she remembered correctly, a boy just kissed her yesterday.

Out of nowhere.

In the middle of the street, in a public place where anyone could have seen them.

And then, as though not to make matters worse, he left just as suddenly, saying that he 'was sorry' because he 'didn't mean it'. Mikasa didn't know how anybody could have kissed another person like that and not mean it. Was that supposed to be normal? Or was she the one too inexperienced at these things?

She needed answers. But she was too afraid to initiate anything, so she hadn't talked to Eren again since then. The boy hadn't contacted her either.

As a result, she almost couldn't sleep the night. Even now, Mikasa found herself torn in between. Half of her really didn't want to see that boy (she didn't even know what kind of face she was supposed to make when she saw him) – but another half was dying to see him, just to ask what was going on between them yesterday.

She took another deep sigh.

"I'll be going now," she said, finally realizing that the latter side had won. Staying home will only exemplify the magnitude of questions she already had in her head right now – and sooner or later she would have to see him – so why not now?

Mikasa rose from her seat and gave her mother a peck on both cheeks.

"Bye mom."

- The whole universe was different from yesterday

Just just from your happiness -

Mikasa was half worried that she might have run into Eren accidentally in the station. Trying to not make eye contact with anyone, she quickly swept her way past the exit, joining the crowd of students in Shiganshina North High uniform, all heading toward the same direction – up the hill, and past the front gate of their school.

Some students stopped to chat or greet their friends. Others who were walking in groups took their time to walk slowly. Mikasa slipped past a group of male students from 3rd grade – who were discussing loudly about the football game last night – bowed politely to a teacher who stood near the entrance to school building, grabbed her slippers from her shoe locker and quickly left. As she climbed the flight of stairs and took a right turn toward the end of the corridor, Mikasa slightly prayed that her expressions wouldn't betray her when she finally saw him.

Which was, she realized, near impossible.

The buzzing sound of early morning conversation reached her the moment she opened the sliding door. No one uttered a single greeting to her – not even a simple 'hello' or 'good morning' – but Mikasa was used to the silent treatment by then. She proceeded to her table, only to find that her bullies simply didn't take any rest. She stared straight, unblinking, to the word 'TRASH' formed by capital black letters, which glared at her silently from the shiny surface of her table.

Of course. She had come to school too late today – much later than her usual early morning schedule. As a result, she now felt the prowling glances of her classmates on her back, waiting to see her reaction. As if. She wasn't going to ever give them the satisfaction. After a few moments of silence, Mikasa carefully put down her book bag and started the routine – which was slowly becoming like a habit – of cleaning up her table.

Her lack of reaction seemed to disappoint her eager classmates. Reluctantly, they went back to chatting – resuming their previous discussion which was cut off due to her arrival. As she continued cleaning her table – Mikasa felt a strange tug in her heart. It wasn't pain. She wasn't hurt. She didn't care that she was being bullied by the whole school. Surprisingly, what she felt in her heart was pure, unadulterated pity.

She pitied all her classmates, all the students in school who commenced the bullying toward her. They wanted her to feel lonely. They tried their best to treat her like she was invisible, the scum of the earth, like someone who never belonged in their society.

But they never knew. She had felt that way since a long, long time ago. All the time she spent enduring the abuse in her house had made her change, though not for the better. She'd lost track of how many times that bastard of a stepfather had made her feel like a trash. There were countless times when she felt empty – pained, and hurt, she almost thought of taking her own meaningless life. But she struggled, through and through. And the only way she found to keep clinging to this life was to desperately hide her scars, her insecure self, by pretending to be someone she wasn't.

She wanted to be everyone's definition of perfect. Because she knew – it was the only way for her to ever get along with people – to make friends. Had she shown even an inch of her weak and pitiful self to anyone – no one would ever want to approach her.

And now – these people thought that they managed to exile her, made her suffer. They were terribly wrong. Their abuse was nothing compared to her past horror. It was like child's play – it didn't affect her one bit. But of course, Mikasa couldn't bear herself to tell them the truth.

She finished cleaning up her table, and put away her washcloth. Now sitting on her chair, she stared listlessly ahead.

It wasn't that she felt she didn't belong with them now. She'd never belonged there since the beginning.

- I'm afraid, just as much as my heart flutters

Because fate keeps being envious of us -

His chair was empty.

Mikasa tried to keep herself from looking – but found her eyes helplessly darting between Eren's table and the door. A million thoughts were racing in her head.

When is he going to come? Is he absent? Is he avoiding her? Is it because of yesterday? And then…

What the fuck is she going to do if he really doesn't come? She couldn't possibly endure this pain for another day!

She was distracted for a while when the morning bell finally rang – and Mr. Levi entered the classroom for homeroom period. The students rose from their seat, bowed politely to him, and sat back down, waiting for him to make a call roll.

Mikasa's name was the first to be called. She rose her hand. And Mr. Levi went on the next names on the list. One by one he called the student's names to check if they were present. And as he got closer to the bottom of the name list – Eren's chair was still empty.

Mikasa started tapping her fingers impatiently to the surface of her table. If the bullies wanted her to feel pain – this was the real pain. Waiting on him to show up (not knowing if he ever will) was torture, and telling her mind to shut up was even more agonizing. She tried to find other focus, but it lasted only for several seconds before her mind was back to him.

Will he ever show up?

Fortunately enough (or unfortunately), she heard the classroom door open a few moments later.

"'Sup."

Mikasa's body froze. He's here. She couldn't have mistaken that voice.

"Is that how you apologize for being late?" Mr. Levi's steely gaze greeted the boy, as he walked, ever so casually to his seat behind Mikasa. She didn't dare to turn.

"My alarm clock's dead," said Eren, slamming himself to his seat. "And homeroom's not over yet, so – guess I'm safe?"

"Sounds like you need me to get you a new one," Levi remarked, to which Eren replied lightly, "Sure Sir, could you get me a new TV too…? My old one's broken as well."

Several students gasped, probably horrified at how cheeky Eren could be toward a teacher – but Mikasa heard several others scoffed into their textbooks to hide their laughter. Levi's cold gaze swept the room, effectively silencing the class. Sometimes Mikasa still got the impression as though her uncle was secretly trained as a humanoid weapon. How else did he learn to give such cold, murdering gaze?

"And with that dramatic arrival from Yeager – our homeroom is over," Levi said dryly, clapping his attendance book closed with his left hand. "Ackerman, Yeager, report to me once the school is over for your detention duties."

"Yes, Sir," said them both in unison.

The room was once again abuzz with conversation once Levi slid the door closed. Usually, Eren would have reached straight to Mikasa, sitting directly in front of her – just to see her face, her smile, and talk about anything – or nothing – in particular. Today, however, he simply couldn't do it. From his seat, Eren could see that Mikasa had opened a grammar book and was reading intently. He got a strange feeling as though she was only pretending to read the content. But he didn't want to make her face this way.

He lied to Levi about his alarm clock being broken. He arrived late on purpose. As cowardly as it sounded, he really didn't want to face her after the mess he made yesterday. Hell, he didn't even know how to explain himself – or to apologize. He just kissed her. And left.

Kissed her and left! It sounded even worse every time he repeated it inside his head. He cringed every time his memories brought the fresh details of the events yesterday afternoon vividly. She was warm, and fragrant, and her lips were so… soft. Damn it. He was such a goddamn pervert! But seeing her in front of him now – her back to him, ever so calmly reading her book while he could see glimpses of her profile and her delicate shoulders – really didn't help him erase that memory.

His face burned. The heat was severe, he almost thought he had a fever. Hopelessly, he buried his face in his palms.

He just wanted today to pass quickly.

- I am just as afraid as you are

When you see me, when you touch me -

"Ayako, I need to talk to you about something," Mikasa said as soon as the bell rang, marking the start of lunch break. The brown-haired girl stared at her friend curiously. Mikasa really didn't seem like her usual composed self. She looked… urgent. Like she might explode if she had to wait another second before spilling her thoughts.

"Sure," said Ayako. "I'll just go grab something from the cafeteria for my lunch, and then let's head to Home Economics lab to meet with the others."

"NO," Mikasa pressed. Her tone caused Ayako to raise her eyebrows a bit. "Er… just today, I don't want to have lunch with the others. Let's have lunch, just the two of us."

"Okay… then let's buy something and eat our lunch here."

"No," Mikasa said again. "Let's have our lunch… outside."

To Mikasa's surprise, Ayako really didn't complain about her idea of having their lunch outside, in the garden, although the weather was freezing cold.

"Y-y-you'd better explain," Ayako's teeth started clattering. She was desperately holding her warm canned coffee with one hand and grabbing her pocket heater with the other hand to stop the cold from creeping in. "Before us both caught h-hypothermia for standing here too long in the cold."

"I'm sorry," Mikasa said automatically. She kind of felt bad toward her friend, but she really didn't want to risk anyone eavesdropping on their conversation. Thankfully, the garden was deserted (absolutely, because no one in their sane mind would have wanted to go outside in this cold).

"Why are we not having lunch with Yeager and Armin? Did something happen again between you and Yeager? I think I'm starting to get used to it," said Ayako, trying to keep her tone from being too sarcastic.

"No, it's just that… I have something I need to talk to you… privately."

Ayako looked curious. "And Yeager and Armin absolutely can't know about this? Wonder what's so important."

"That's why I'm telling you now. Ayako… I know you have more experience than me about boys…," Mikasa's intro caused Ayako to raise her eyebrows again, not quite following her friend's point. "And umm… I just wanted to ask…" for a moment Mikasa was uncomfortably playing with her fingers, clasping and unclasping them again, trying to arrange her thoughts into something comprehensible.

Waiting on her friend to finish her sentence, Ayako clicked open her canned coffee, and started sipping it. Her curious light brown eyes were on Mikasa all the while – trying to guess where the black-haired girl might have wanted to go with the topic of their conversation.

"Can boys really kiss someone without meaning to do it?"

Ayako almost spit her coffee. She was coughing rigorously for a few seconds – Mikasa patting her back all the while – as she tried to regain her train of thoughts. Whatever Ayako had expected Mikasa to say - she totally did not expect this question.

"That depends," Ayako said, after her coughing fits had passed. Cough cough. "I think they certainly can. Even I kissed a lot of people without really meaning it. Sometimes just because I was bored, or because I was curious how it would feel like. But then that's that – like you said, there really was no meaning to it." Mikasa's expression suddenly turned grim.

"I see, then," she said flatly.

Mikasa really didn't seem happy, that Ayako had to ask her what was going on. After a while, the former finally started again.

"Say you… say you know a boy. Just imagine that you have this boy you're really close with – but he's not your boyfriend."

This was getting weirder, but Ayako said nothing. She nodded. "Okay, done."

"Then," Mikasa continued, "One day this boy just… suddenly kissed you, out of nowhere. You were surprised, and it looked like he was surprised too. But then he left, saying he was sorry. He said he didn't mean the kiss." Mikasa paused. Ayako still stared at her strangely.

"What do you think it's supposed to mean? Was it just a one-time thing? Or… was… I mean, could there be any other meaning to it – to that kiss…?"

For a long while, Ayako stood without uttering any response. Mikasa's story went from weird to downright bizarre in a matter of seconds – and she was left with connecting the dots.

"Wait," said Ayako, trying to slowly shed some light in her friend's story. "Are you saying that a boy kissed you…."

"Not me," Mikasa protested, "It was my… my friend."

"Okay, so your friend was kissed by a boy who said that he didn't mean the kiss."

"Yes."

"And he said he was sorry?"

Mikasa nodded.

"And… what happened after that?"

"Nothing. The boy didn't say anything to her at all after the incident, and she was too afraid to ask so that's why – that's why I'm asking you right now." Mikasa flushed slightly at the end of her sentence, so she turned away quickly before Ayako could see her.

Ayako processed the facts in her head for a while before asking, "Were there feelings involved?"

Mikasa didn't answer, only her face was turning slowly - into a more obvious red.

"I don't know," she said finally. "He might be tipsy or something, or just lost in the spur of the moment. He might just have a slip-up, or like you said, just wanted to try something different. That might be why he –"

"Did Yeager kiss you yesterday?" Ayako asked. It was kind of a lucky guess, but she learned the truth the moment her friend's expression change from bemused to mildly shocked.

"Oh My God!" she squealed. "I was right, wasn't I? Did you kiss? Did you really kiss? How did that happen…? I can't believe you tried to hide this from me!"

Mikasa sighed, looking into Ayako's grinning face. She totally gave herself away.

"Fine," she said, scowling a little. "You won."

"So it was true…?" Ayako asked, slightly jumping upside-down on her spot, barely trying to conceal her excitement. "Did you and Yeager just… kissed yesterday? How did that happen?"

"We didn't kiss," Mikasa said in a half-groan. "Well, technically it was a kiss, but… Anyway… we were on the way home from school, and we stopped by the convenience store, and we were talking. And then it just – stop squealing, it wasn't like that! It just sort of… happened. But it's more like… he was the one who kissed me. And I was too surprised to do anything."

"Wow."

(Damn it, Yeager)

"And after that, he said he didn't mean it."

"What….?"

(Yeager, you fucking idiot)

"I just… I don't know…," Mikasa covered her lips. She could still feel him. His taste of coffee, and the smell of cigarette – even his soft breath on her skin was too real to ignore, and it's driving her mad. "I don't understand…. is that how boys are…? Can they really kiss someone without meaning it?"

"Umm…" Ayako contemplated for a while. Truth be told, Ayako did know Eren and his previous track records – she knew that the boy have had flings and make out sessions with girls left and right – girls he didn't even properly date. He probably – no, positively – had even gone further than a simple kiss or two with the girls that he dated (and the girls he did not). But Mikasa was unlike any of them. She was too pure, not to mention inexperienced.

And now Eren just treated her like she was one of those simple-minded girls out there. The girls he met at a blind-date events, in a bar, or in a karaoke. The girls he could make out with and bring home and see if he could get lucky with them. That made Ayako even angrier. She continued her inward cursing, trying to remember every single bad words she'd learned and direct them toward Eren. That idiot really couldn't read the circumstances. She didn't know if she should slap him on behalf of Mikasa – or kick him in the groin. She wanted to do both.

"Well – I don't know either," Ayako said finally with a shrug. "If you want to know what he meant – then talk to Yeager. I'm not a psychic. I can't understand his thoughts."

"I don't want to," Mikasa said, half-panicked at the thoughts of facing him directly. "Ayako, I can't. I can't face him. And I certainly can't ask him if yesterday's kiss meant something."

"Wow, Mikasa. For once in a while, you are totally human." Ayako wanted to laugh, but she restrained herself after a close look at her friend's upset face. In spite of everything, Ayako did know Mikasa very well. At this stage, she could see through her friend's mind as easily as though she was seeing them from behind a glass window. Nevertheless, she tried her best to repress further teasing remarks that were on the tip of her tongue.

Because this was such a simple matter. And Mikasa's inability to make sense of things somewhat amused her, if not making her more exasperated. Sure, Eren did make things difficult for her - but the answer was so easy. Mikasa, of course, will still struggle to find answers in matters concerning the heart, instead of the brain.

Ayako decided to give her friend a little extra hint.

"Why are you so afraid to ask Yeager now?" she asked, eyeing her best friend closely for her reaction. She could almost hear Mikasa's brain thinking.

"Why? There's no specific reason but – is it supposed to be normal to just ask him casually 'why did you kiss me'?" Even Mikasa could feel her insides blushing at that prospect. "That sounds silly to me, or even more – it's embarrassing."

"Look here, I can't help you to understand what Yeager thought of that kiss," Ayako continued, rather carefully. "But at least, I can help you to not lie to your own feelings. Or," she contemplated for a few split seconds, "I can help you come to terms with them."

"Come to terms with what? You're not making any sense now."

Mikasa slowly turned to look into Ayako's furtive smile, and immediately, she felt strange. Her best friend looked like she knew something about Mikasa, that she herself didn't.

"Hey, Mikasa. Just… give me your honest answer, okay?" Now it's Mikasa's turn to be confused by how serious her best friend sounded. Ayako heaved a deep sigh.

"Did the kiss actually mean something… for you?"

"For… me?" Mikasa blinked at Ayako's question. "How is this connected? I thought we were talking about Yeager." Ayako gave a tired sigh. Surely, there was a limit to how thick someone could be.

"Summer is going to come before you even realize what's going on with yourself," Ayako let out a desperate laugh, slightly covering her face with one hand. "Or… we will both be rushed to the hospital in a few hours, because we caught hypothermia. Well, I don't want to continue standing here in the cold, so… I'll make this quick. Lend me your ears now, Mikasa," she pulled the other girl closer and leaned forward to whisper in her ears.

"Hey, what the -?" Mikasa tried to pull away, but Ayako impatiently yanked her back, shus-ing.

"Shut up! I'm only going to say it once, so listen carefully." She looked satisfied when Mikasa finally gave her the undivided attention.

"You are…"

- You are my Penicillin, the one who saved me

My angel, my world -

Armin knew something was wrong. The moment Eren stepped inside the Home Economics lab on his own, announcing that Mikasa and Ayako won't be joining them today – Armin eyed him with his typical scrutinizing look. He didn't say a word and nodded calmly at Eren's explanation – of why the two of them were absent - but then, ever so lightly, followed it up with a killer question.

"So what did you do this time, Eren?"

Which made Eren wonder if Armin was actually a psychic in disguise.

"Why do always you suppose I did something?" he asked rather defensively. He hoped he sounded innocent, and a little bit hurt. "Like I said - they just told me they wanted to have girls' time, so they're not coming today – that's all I know."

"You're lying though," said Armin lightly. His blue eyes were tinkling with some sort of wicked amusement.

"I didn't –"

"Your ears are red when you tell a lie," Armin pointed out, grinning. That shut Eren up completely.

Fucking non-cooperative ears.

"So – just admit it," Armin asked once again. "What have you done this time? I have a feeling you've done something stupid again. Don't tell me you're throwing away all your hard efforts to get along with Mikasa until this point."

There was a complete silence, only to be broken later by the sound of Eren clearing his throat.

"Well… like you said… It's just something stupid. So… not worth mentioning." His right hand jumped to ruffle his hair awkwardly – a gesture he tend to perform every time he got nervous. "Anyway – things will be all right again soon. I hope." There was a pause, and Eren could hear his inner self doubting his words.

"Well, they might not, but – I hope they do." He swallowed.

And suddenly, he felt all feverish again.

"Whoa, you're all red," said Armin, stating the obvious. "Are you – are you okay…? Do you want to go to the nurse's office?"

"NO! No, I'm… I'm fine," said Eren, sounding way more agitated than usual. When will that scene stop replaying itself inside his head? When will his stupidity stop slapping him in his face?

And when, just when will he stop imagining the taste of her sweet, soft lips?

He wanted to know if he could ever stop himself from feeling like he wanted to kiss her again, hold her inside his arms, bring her somewhere just the two of them – and make out with her for days on end.

Because that was wrong. That was completely inappropriate of him on almost every moral ground. He wanted her. He'd realized that since the first day he'd known her – although it turned out ugly, because he was too busy stereotyping her with certain people he had met from his past.

He might not like her back then, but still – he was attracted.

It was a complex mix of emotions, really – he wasn't even sure what he was feeling toward her back then. She was pretty and attractive, and that prompted his interest. And then he got to know her a little more – and she wasn't at all like he expected. From then, his interests only deepened with time – until he realized that she had been occupying such a large part of his mind.

When he spotted her sitting in silence, calmly reading her book – he started wondering what she might be thinking. When he knew she was abused but she didn't do anything – the pain in his heart was beyond any physical pain he had ever felt. There was sort of an uncomfortable prick that he felt in his chest every time he saw her then – anger, pain, exasperation, impatience, and all other sort of displeasure that killed him slowly – but the more he felt them, the more he realized that his attraction toward her wasn't a simple feeble interest.

He cared a lot about this girl – about Mikasa Ackerman. Of course, having been through those bitter experiences in his past – Eren knew how disappointment could come from betrayals by the people he deeply cared about. But that didn't stop his feelings toward her. He mistook it as anger once, but it was a strong, burning, feverish passion. It was such an exceptional emotion, slowly consuming and drowning him. The more he tried to repress them – the stronger those feelings came back to him.

If he was to be completely honest, he'd really been trying to keep himself on restraint these following months. Didn't he succeed…? He didn't do anything to her when she was staying in his house. At least, he didn't want her to think that he was taking advantage of her. He didn't want her to see him as such a lowly human being.

But yesterday… it seemed that he's already restraining himself for long enough, that somehow it just… broke.

And he let his desires control him. He succumbed to his wild thoughts. He let himself kiss her, following the very basics of his instincts.

How very very like him, he smirked inside.

"Well, to put it simply," Eren sighed, his head a little hurt from thinking too much. Armin's eyes were still eyeing him closely. "I… lost my control again."

"Okay…?" Eren knew from Armin's expression that his friend needed further details. So he covered his face and sighed.

"I did something crazy."

"Won't be your first or last time at it."

"This time, it's completely crazy."

"Tell me what it is, and I can attest to you then."

"I kissed Mikasa."

He turned to look at his blonde friend. Armin's mouth was gaping slightly, either to protest, or simply because of utter disbelief. Slowly, he repeated Eren's words, "You… were…."

"I kissed Mikasa, yeah."

"You… kissed her…," Armin looked like he had a difficult time pronouncing the words out loud. "And – and how did it go?"

"Well, it was great, obviously. If she ever lets me kiss her again, I'd do it…"

"I mean," Armin interrupted before his friend could go into too many details. "Did she say anything?"

"Nothing, actually. I ran away as soon as I came to my senses. She just looked shocked." Armin said nothing, still trying to digest the facts.

"I – I wasn't thinking right," said Eren, more to himself than to anyone in particular. "I was possessed or something – I don't know. I had a gazillion mad thoughts at that time, and – and then it's just – she was so pretty. It's driving me mad. And the next thing I know, I was kissing her." The more he said that out loud, the more horrifying it sound. Even Armin was at loss for words to say. Once again, Eren hid his face deep between his palms.

"Just fucking say it, Man. I'm an idiot," Eren moaned. A few moments of silence. Then:

"You sure are," Armin shook his head. "A big, fucking idiot."

"Nice to hear you use profanities for once, Armin."

"And I give you a 15 out of 10 rating for your craziness."

"Shut up."

"And now you need to make things right with her again." Armin stretched his hand and patted Eren's back on a somewhat mock concern. "Good luck, I don't envy being in your place this time."

"You little devil," Eren mumbled unpleasantly. "I know you're not sorry at all. You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Armin's grin only grew wider at Eren's words, but the boy said nothing to affirm or deny the accusations.

"I have to make things right with her again – fuck this. I know that! But I just…"

"Don't know how…?" supplied Armin helpfully. "Yeah, certainly it's not like you can just go to her and apologize and tell her to forget everything. That's not how human brain works."

"You reckon she even wants to speak with me after this…?" asked Eren, looking somewhat miserable that Armin decided not to tease him further.

"Well," the blonde boy said carefully. "Let's be honest… I think she's been through even more horrible versions of you – and she still speaks with you. So… I guess it's a yes…?"

Eren looked a little relieved. "You're right," he said. "So… do you think I can just…"

"But still…. You owe her an apology." Eren's face fell. He knew Armin was right. The latter frowned his nose. "You owe her an apology… yet again. I felt like this is a deja vu. I'm sure something similar happened in December…"

"Shut it, Armin," Eren groaned. "You know what, you can be such a little jerk if you want to."

"I think that rubbed off on me from a certain someone I know," Armin replied, grinning in satisfaction.

- I am your Calico Cat, here to meet you.

Love me now, touch me now -

Eren was walking along the corridor between school buildings when a pair of hands suddenly grabbed him and forcefully dragged him aside.

"Ow! Hey! What the hell…?" he protested, but a voice silenced him. "Shush! Shut up!"

"Ishijima?" said Eren, mesmerized. The girl with fluffy light-brown hair was standing beside him, and it was indeed her who very roughly manhandled him. "What's the big idea here?" He rubbed his arm, which slightly hurt from the way she yanked him aside.

Ayako crossed her hands in front of her chest, suddenly looking stern. "First of all," she said. "How dare YOU."

"How dare I what?" asked Eren, confused.

"You know what I'm talking about," was her only reply. She sounded stiff, and from the way her eyebrows taut together, and the look she gave him - it all suddenly clicked inside his head.

"Well….," he said in a long sigh, ruffling his hair awkwardly and staring to the floor. "Yeah. Right. So I guess… Mikasa told you…?"

"Damn smart, "Ayako chimed. "I can't believe you did that to her, by the way."

"It wasn't intentional –" Eren tried to defend himself, but Ayako wasn't listening. She started talking, and her screeching pretty much drowned all of Eren's response.

"You're wrong if you think she's like one of those easy girls you find out there…"

"It's not like that, I didn't –"

"Kissing her out of nowhere like that, come on, Yeager! That could be considered sexual harassment by the way…"

"I didn't… I mean I wasn't… Oh come on, listen to me here!"

"If you dare for one second think that you can play around with Mikasa, then…."

"THAT'S WHY I'M TELLING YOU –" Eren raised his voice over hers in order to be heard. "THAT I'M NOT PROUD OF IT!"

Ayako stopped talking immediately. Her eyes were now focused on the boy standing in front of her.

"What?" she asked, eyebrow raised. "What do you mean… so you're saying... you regret it?" Ayako implored, but Eren shook his head.

"I said I'm not proud of what I did," Eren repeated, not looking directly into Ayako. The girl's look started to turn unpleasant, but Eren continued. "Look, I know I was wrong, I get that. Mikasa's not like those girls, she's not even like you. But I regret nothing."

This put a smile on the other's face – though faintly.

"I thought we're both over that one," she said.

"There is nothing to get over with," Eren sighed. "It was just us both – being bored and – trying to do something different. We only made out once – that one time."

"Yeah," Ayako agreed, "It was really nothing big. I suppose that's why you didn't remember me when we first met in this school." Eren burst out laughing.

"To be honest, I never remember all those… girls I've made out with. There are way too many – names and faces – or sometimes I don't even need names. You know how it is. They just come and go. It's not meant to be memorized."

"Yeah, I know what you mean." Ayako muttered, frowning. "To be honest, I probably don't either. I just do things and forgot." Eren grinned.

"But I was only teasing you that time," he said. Ayako looked up to him, rather surprised. "I actually remembered you, cause of the vibes you gave at the blind date. Your hair was black, much shorter, and straight back then. I got the impression you were trying to sell yourself as a girl with innocent charm. Either way, you were definitely not innocent." Ayako scoffed.

"Neither were you."

"Yeah, I think I was half drunk when we made out," Eren frowned, trying to remember. "Anyway, that's all in the past. I've certainly done… things. But that's before I – moved here and…."

"Before you met Mikasa, I get it," Ayako finished for her, nodding slightly.

"Yeah," Eren stared up to the ceiling, in a desperate attempt to contemplate, "She kinda made me wish I could start over clean. With everything. With her."

"Stop being dramatic," Ayako teased him, and the boy smiled.

"You won't ever tell Mikasa about us, will you…?" Eren asked Ayako, his eyes were still staring at the ceiling, as though there was an invisible drawing there. She scoffed.

"You think I will go so far to hurt her feelings, Yeager? I'd never do that."

"Yeah, thanks," she could hear his smile. "I know you won't. That's why I trust you. I mean… I do want to tell Mikasa about me, or what I used to be. And how I've come to get such a shit rep here and there. Hell – she sure knows I'm not a good person, otherwise I won't be expelled."

When he said the word expelled, Ayako shifted awkwardly in her place. "Yeah, I heard a thing or two about that," she began, and Eren's face suddenly hardened.

"I expect you would. My old school try their best to fend off the scandal, but they can't silence people nor stop the story from spreading. Guess you're afraid of me now…?" Eren forced out a smirk.

"I don't believe it entirely," said Ayako, restlessly playing with her fingernails. "And don't get me wrong – it's not like I'm afraid of you. I got to know you these 6 months and I don't think you're as bad as what people say. Although I can't help but… question if it's true."

"What did you hear…?"

Ayako chewed her lips nervously. "Well…," she started.

And she told Eren of what she'd heard. About him – and how he got expelled. The boy listened to her in silence. When she finally stopped to take a breather, he let out a sour laugh.

"That," he said. "Is not far from the truth. But you didn't hear the entire story. I guess the school did a good job to ensure the most horrible part of the story never goes out."

"And that's the part that you're going to have to tell Mikasa yourself," she said quietly.

"I know," he sighed. "I'd probably scare her away though. That's why I'll wait until I'm sure I can tell her. I've made such a mess of my life."

Ayako leaned on the wall, hands on her pocket, looking at the boy with a rather gentle sparkle on her eyes. "Well… if you think you should start over for her, why don't you do it now…?"

Eren turned her way, looking pained. "Ishijima, I'm not even sure she wants to talk to me right now. Plus I don't even know what I should say to her – to make me not look like such a jerk."

"Just say whatever you want to say. Don't think too much. You know you're not good at it."

"Yeah, right on point," Eren muttered, sounding annoyed.

"I mean…," Ayako tried to slightly revise her words. "That's not my point, Yeager. Point is… the longer you put this off – the more chance Mikasa will slip out of your hand. She might think you hate her – or worse, by not talking to her like this, you're actually giving off vibes that you don't care about her, like you're just playing around." Eren suddenly looked horrified.

"Damn it. You're right." He seemed to be deep in thinking. Ayako didn't disturb her. She observed the boy calmly, but she knew he was taking her point.

"You know what, Ishijima – you gave such good advice sometimes," he finally said. Ayako looked rather pleased at the compliment. "Well, I am her best friend, after all."

"Yeah. She's lucky to have you – considering how her other best friend turned out to be."

"Actually, that's my second point," said Ayako, suddenly looking serious. "I and Armin have decided that we're going to catch them in action."

"Them who…?" Eren blinked.

"Nanako, of course. And her accomplice."

"What, she has an accomplice?"

"Yes! So we're going to –"

"And you've found this accomplice already?"

"Yeager, one more interruption from you, I'm going to cut your balls," said Ayako, sending her most dreadful look to Eren.

"Sorry, go on," he said, slightly grinning.

"Anyways," Ayako took in a deep breather. "To answer your question, yes – Armin has found her accomplice. He's been hiding in photography club all this time. Most obvious hiding place, right…?"

Eren let out a low whistle.

"So how did you smoke him out?"

"Well, technically, Armin did it – I can tell you later about it too. But we're monitoring him closely now. Armin managed to corner him yesterday, so he's bound to report this to Nanako soon. Things are going to escalate quickly from there. And… that's how you come into our plan."

"I'm all ears."

- The universe moved for us, there was nothing out of place

Our happiness was expected. Cause you love me, and I love you -

(Yesterday Afternoon – Shiganshina North High School, Club Room Building)

Ayako had gone to spy on Nanako. Mikasa and Eren had also left school after their detention was over. It was now Armin's turn to do his part of the deal with Ayako – investigate the photography club.

Saying it was easy, but executing the idea was way more complicated. He couldn't possibly waltz in to the club room and ask if anybody there possessed a strong paparazzi lens and had been using it to stalk anyone recently. Tactics, he reminded himself. He needed to be tactful, otherwise his target just won't show up. The problem was if he could ever get to fire the right questions, in the right directions.

Thankfully, he had got something up his sleeve this time. It's time to put his plans into action. He wasn't sure it's going to work the way it should, but at least it's better than nothing.

Armin went down to first floor and walked along the inter-building corridors to reach the row of club rooms located in the other building. He stopped for a while in front of the building map – and found that photography club room was located on the second floor. Following the map, he went up the flight of stairs, found the door bearing photography club name on it, and gave it a sharp tap – twice.

Knock knock.

"Yes, come in!" said a voice on the other side of the door.

It's time, Armin thought. Silently, he slid the door open, and made his way in.

"Excuse me," he said. Walking in, Armin had quite an expectation of how the club room will look like. He had imagined it to be somewhat messy – a cramped 30 square meters space where artists constantly meet to discuss and bring their creative ideas to fruition really didn't sound tempting for Armin – especially since he'd experienced the mess he made of his own workstation, every time he produced another piece of art. The more creative he got, the messier he tended to be. He only found the will to clean his room once in a while – and living alone with his grandfather certainly didn't help him becoming tidier. His grandfather didn't care whether Armin left his room in a neat state or in a mess, as long as he knew how to take care of himself.

Which was why – Armin was quite surprised to find a bright, airy room with a lot of breathing space inside. The walls were painted white, and there was a mini photo studio in the back of the room, complete with two softbox lightings and a diffuser setup. Armin guessed they must have been doing portrait shoots before he came in here. The mini studio's background was interchangeable. It was set to white, but Armin saw one black screen, and a green screen for special effects. In the farthest corner, away from the door – he saw a closed room with tight curtains. Though somewhat impromptu, that must be the dark room.

Not bad at all. In fact, this room looked more like a professional photo studio rather than an amateur high school photography club.

"Can we help you?" the question brought Armin back to his senses. He looked ahead, to the four curious pair of eyes that were staring at him. One girl and three boys.

"Are you here to join our club?" asked a boy with a serious face and a bowl-cut black hair, stepping forward. He seemed to be their leader. "That'll be the first one in a loo-ong while," said the girl from behind him, grinning widely. She had wavy blonde hair that sported a bob cut, and a cheerful, almost carefree personality that seemed to be in stark contrast compared to her peer. The boy with bowl-cut black hair sent her a sideways look, telling her silently to hold her tongue, but the girl didn't seem to mind it. "What is your name?" she asked Armin.

"Armin Arlelt," he answered automatically to her question. "I'm from class 2-3."

"I'm Hitch Dreyse, but everyone just calls me Hitch," she said. "Class 2-5. I don't believe we have met."

"We haven't," Armin replied. "I came here today just to take a look. I have been doing photography, you see – but I never had anyone to discuss it with. So… I just thought I might stop by."

"Really? What kind of photography are you into…?" said a boy with silver-grey hair, suddenly joining the conversation. He stepped up toward Armin from the corner of the room. "I did a little bit of street photography," said Armin. "But mostly… I just photographed anything that caught my interest. Here is my portfolio, if you want to see." He pulled out a clear folder from his bag, filled with photographs taken, not by him, but by his friend. Armin didn't do photography of course, that was just his cover. His friend didn't ask him why Armin would want to take home some of his photo prints, and Armin didn't tell either. Some things better remained undisclosed.

The boy with the silver-grey hair leaned in closer with interest, reaching out to grab the pack of photographs from Armin's hand. "You have talent," he said, after examining the photographs closely. Hitch, who had been eyeing the photographs from behind his shoulders, nodded too. Armin pretended to be happy and nodded as well, thanking them for the compliments, though of course he knew they would praise the photos. The author had his work shortlisted for display in Shiganshina Christmas Townhall, after all.

"I'm thinking of doing something different this time," Armin began, after the boy with the silver-grey hair returned the photos to him. He raised his eyebrows, eyeing Armin carefully. "What's that?" he asked. Armin inhaled.

"Lately, I have heard people talking a lot about… Telephoto lenses," said Armin, carefully closing in on the subject of his interest. "You know, it is good to zoom in from long distance and… that means you don't need to get too close to the object." He caught Hitch and the silver-grey haired boy exchanging glances.

"Well, we don't deny it," said the boy with the silver-grey hair. "But to be honest… we don't really know much about that kind of lens."

"It has the infamous reputation of being a paparazzi lens, or a stalker lens," said Hitch, shrugging. "Unless you work in entertainment industry and have to take photos of artists, professional photographers rarely use it."

"Wrong, Hitch," said the boy with the bowl-cut black hair, turning everyone's attention to him. "There is someone in our club who uses that lens." Hitch looked lost for a while, but then her face lighted up.

"Oh, you're right!" said Hitch. "Tachibana uses it. But I don't see him use it that often, I kind of forgot about it. He is in the dark room now, but let me see if we can bring him out. Hey! Tachibana!" Hitch knocked on the dark room door.

"What?" said a voice from inside, sounding rather annoyed.

"Hey, we got a visitor! Come on out!"

"I'm not finished!"

"Finish it later then, I know you can be there for hours if we don't ask you to come out."

Nothing can be heard for a while. But then, Armin heard the dark room door click, and it swung open. From beyond the door, a boy with average height stepped out. He would have been handsome, had he not look like someone who forgot to take proper care of himself. His body was thin and fragile, his hair was unkempt, there was a stain on his uniform shirt (probably from coffee), and his face was expressionless, without any hint of smile. His eyes swept the entire room, and immediately found Armin, who gave him a half-hearted grin. "I'm sorry to interrupt your time," said Armin immediately, suddenly feeling compelled to apologize. He knew how annoying it was to be disturbed when he was concentrating on doing something. The boy, though, didn't say anything in response. It almost seemed like he didn't hear Armin. He turned to Hitch. "What is it?" he asked.

"Don't be so tense," Hitch took the boy by the arm and brought him forward to Armin. "We got a visitor. Armin, here is Tachibana – Tachibana, meet Armin." Armin politely bowed and said "Nice to meet you". He could see Tachibana doing the same, out of politeness, but Armin could tell that the boy was dying to go isolate himself inside the dark room again rather than listening to him. Armin tried to shake off his uncomfortable feeling, like was intruding on something, and instead telling himself quietly that this was his chance to dig up the perpetrator. If not now – he might never get another chance. He didn't want to go home empty handed.

"I want to ask you…," Armin began, telling the same story he had told the other three members before, "About telephoto lenses. I've been doing street photography, and my friend told me a Telephoto lens might be good to step up my game, so…"

"I don't have a Telephoto lens," said Tachibana, curtly interrupting Armin. Four pair of eyes stared wonderingly at him, confused by his words.

"But… you do have a Telephoto lens," said the boy with the bowl-cut black hair, sounding more probing than assuring. "Right?" he asked, when Tachibana didn't respond to his words.

"I used to have it, not now," Tachibana answered shortly. Armin felt like Tachibana avoided their eyes on purpose. Hitch raised her eyebrows at this statement. "What happened?"

"It… I broke it. I was careless and it broke down. It cost too much to fix the lens. So I just left it." There was an awkward pause at the end of his sentence. Nobody had guessed this kind of outcome, it seemed. Armin looked around and everyone seemed to be on the same, stunned silence. He sighed deeply.

"That's sad," Armin finally broke the silence. "I'm sorry to hear it. But… can you still give me advice? I'm looking to buy a Telephoto lens and…"

"That kind of lens is expensive," Tachibana finally stared at Armin now. "What are you going to do with it? Normal photographers wouldn't use it."

Armin could almost hear it in his words, though Tachibana didn't say it out loud.

Only stalkers use it.

"Wildlife photography," said Armin quickly. He had prepared a response in case questions like this came up. "I can't get too up close to my objects, or they will flee. I'm going to photograph birds. But as you said, that lens is expensive, so…" Armin locked his eyes intently with Tachibana, "I'm actually looking to borrow. Too bad you broke your lens…"

Tachibana averted his gaze slightly away from Armin, effectively breaking their eye contact. "Yeah," he said, without looking directly to the blonde-haired boy. "I'm sorry. I can't help you." Armin's heartbeat slightly went up. The movement might be subtle, but to Armin, it was the moment he had been waiting for. It was the movement that gave him away. Armin could feel that rush of anticipation now. This must be what hunters felt like, when they waited all day for their prey to show up, and finally spotted their target.

"I have to go back in now," Tachibana said after a moment of silence, politely implying to Armin that their business was over. Armin looked back at him, and saw an unexplainable emotion in the boys' clear dark eyes. He looked annoyed, sure, but… did he also spot fear?

Not being able to say anything else, Armin nodded. "Thank you for your advice. I'm sorry again to interrupt you."

Tachibana didn't say anything as he walked back in to the dark room, and clicked the door closed behind him.

Sorry we weren't able to help you, said Hitch, and she really did look sorry.

Come back anytime you want, maybe we can hang out and take pictures together sometime, said the silver-grey haired boy, who was apparently named Boris. I and Marlowe here will be glad to help you if we can, he pointed at his friend with the bowl-cut black hair, who also nodded. Armin smiled and told them it was no problem, before leaving their club room.

He pretended to go home, but he didn't. Instead, Armin went around and up the flight of stairs of the main building. He went into an empty classroom, where he could get a clear view of the photography club room. His business there was not yet finished. His gut instincts told him that yes, Tachibana indeed had something to do with the stalking incident and the poster, but he couldn't be sure just yet. He needed another one, the last key, last piece of evidence.

It had been over one hour, the sky was getting darker. Marlowe had come out of the clubroom, his school bag in hands, and then Hitch and Boris, but still Armin hadn't seen Tachibana going home. Armin waited, patiently, eyes never leaving the photography clubroom door in case he would miss the target.

Another hour passed, and it almost became completely dark around him. Just as Armin was wondering what he could have done with the low visibility, he saw the photography clubroom door opened, and his target emerged.

Tachibana turned around, pulled out a ring of keys from his pocket, and locked the door. Armin held his breath in anticipation. Now! he could hear a voice inside his head. Now, or you'll never get the evidence at all. Armin stood up abruptly and left his post, pausing slightly to see where his target was headed. Tachibana had turned toward the stairs. Armin bet on the possibility that he was heading toward the school gates to go home. He needed to be quick.

The blonde boy rushed down the stairs, toward the shoe locker, and waited. If Tachibana was indeed going home, he'll pass by this place soon enough. He crouched behind the rows of shoe locker, making sure it was far enough from Tachibana's locker. A few minutes later, he heard footsteps approaching from the inter-building corridor. Armin held his breath and listened quietly. There was a sound of locker door opening, followed by something being put on the floor, and then fabrics rubbing against each other. The person was putting on his shoes. Then it was another sound of locker door closing, and then the footsteps headed toward the door. Armin didn't dare to look, for it might give him away. He counted carefully to ten, then raised his head slightly. He saw Tachibana, just out of the school building – crossing the front yard, and headed toward the school gate.

Now what? Armin thought to himself. He cursed at his own stupidity. There was a good one hundred meters out in the open – space between the building and the school gate – in which his target is walking leisurely in now. He couldn't possibly tail him out there in the open like that. Tachibana would definitely spot him and get suspicious. So he had no choice but to wait, until his target was safely out of the school gate.

Tachibana made a left turn. It was toward the train station. Could he possibly go home by train…? There was only one way to find out. Armin got out of his hiding place and dashed, as fast as he could, crossed the empty front yard, until he was almost out of the school gate, and then glanced to his left.

Bingo.

His target was still there, several few meters in front of him, walking in leisure pace. Trying to catch his breath, Armin considered himself lucky that Tachibana wasn't in a hurry to get anywhere tonight. If he made good use of the shadows and alleys around them, Armin could follow him without a problem. He slightly felt his adrenaline rushing. His heartbeats continued to pound in his ears like drums, despite his best attempts to calm them down. He knew his face was flushing red, because he could feel the heat radiating. Carefully he stepped forward, from shadow to shadow, making good use of the low visibility to cover himself. He felt like one of those spies from suspense movies, tailing the suspect with caution. It could all end up in his favor, or he could completely blow his cover. It was all up to him now.

Armin focused all of his senses into following Tachibana and making sure that he did not get caught, until, at one point, he realized that they were indeed headed toward the train station. Armin sighed in relief. It might be harder to keep an eye on his target now that they were in a public place crammed with people. But on the positive side – now Armin could approach him without arousing too much suspicion. It wouldn't be weird to bump into someone you know on the train back home.

Realizing this, Armin quickly picked up his pace, tapped his commuter card on the gate, and followed his target down the stairways, toward the West Line. Armin's house wasn't on that part of the town – but he could easily say that he was on the way to a friend's house, or somewhere he had a business to. Even if he was suspicious, Tachibana wouldn't be able to verify it.

His target now stood firmly on Platform 5, waiting for his train. Armin made his way, around him the train station was buzzing with the usual commuter noise. Footsteps, mingled with conversations, and people rushing toward different directions, alone or in groups, listening to songs with their earphone, looking straight ahead or down, with face masks on to fight against influenza virus or scarves to protect themselves against cold.

Train in Platform 5 is approaching, please watch your steps and stay behind the yellow line.

Armin knew he only had a few minutes to gather evidence now. He stepped forward, and called out.

"Tachibana!"

The boy turned around. His face changed when he saw Armin. "What are you doing here?" he said, his tone obviously was not friendly. Armin stayed unbothered, approached him, and answered, "Are you taking this train? I'm taking the train after this," he pointed toward the timetable. He was about to mention that he's visiting a friend's house – just like his original plan. But then he got a much better idea. "Mikasa's house is in that part of the town. I'm visiting her. Do you happen to know her…?"

It was there only for a split second, but Armin spotted it immediately at the mention of Mikasa's name. He was wary at best, or at worst, scared. The name had invoked something within him, truth that he didn't want to admit – but he knew he had no choice except to answer – exactly as Armin wanted him.

"Don't know her personally," Tachibana finally admitted, gazing down to the station floor, his tone close to an inaudible murmur. "I heard her name a lot though. She is our model student, isn't she?"

"Not lately," Armin launched his next attack. "Not after, you know, all the posters attacking her." Tachibana bit his lips. Armin watched him closely for his reaction. If Tachibana was indeed guilty, he would reveal it now, in some kind of way. Armin had given him enough push. The next thing he said, or did – would determine Tachibana's involvement in this whole incident. It could be a slip of words – a change of facial expression, or any other nonverbal clues. Lying, hiding, and pretending had never been easy. It was a mental strain on the person. Just like hunting for preys, a liar will leave their traces, their scent along the way. And it was up to the hunter to pick it up. Now, Armin was the hunter, following closely on the trail of his prey.

"I don't know anything about it. What happened?" asked Tachibana. Clever, Armin admitted quietly. He wanted me to explain so he had time to prepare to react.

"You must have not been one for gossips," Armin gave him a slight smile. "Actually, there is not much to tell. Some two weeks ago, someone spread posters around the school, accusing Mikasa of sleeping around with boys. Ever since then, the whole school seemed to conspire in bullying her."

"That is low. I'm guessing someone must be jealous of her," said Tachibana, his tone unchanging.

"That leaves plenty of people as suspect," Armin laughed. "I'm more concerned because… Mikasa told me, the day before the posters spread – that she felt she was being followed. And she was certain someone took her pictures." Tachibana raised his eyebrows, his body stood still and wary of Armin's next words.

"As I recalled…," Armin gave a slight pause. "You know… on that day, I was with Mikasa. I came around to her house, and I was with her when she started to panic." It was a lie, of course. Armin was not there with Mikasa. It was Eren. But Armin did it deliberately to fish him out. If Tachibana took his bait, and accused Armin of lying, then Armin will know immediately that he was there.

But Tachibana remained impassive. He didn't take the bait, although Armin could see colors gradually leaving his face. This was bad. The boy was tougher than he expected. He couldn't be sure. He needed one final push.

"Now that I think about it…" Armin paused again on purpose, pretending to be deep in thought, eyeing Tachibana's reaction.

"Were you somewhere around the area that time, Tachibana? I think I remember seeing you."

Unlike previously, the change on Tachibana's face was instant this time. His face went red and his breathing immediately became heavy as he blurted out, "That is not true!" several decibels above his normal tone, causing several passersby to stop and look. Tachibana seemed to be aware of the scene he caused, because he immediately lowered his tone.

"Don't speak unnecessary things," he said to Armin through clenched teeth. The other boy stood his ground, despite the quiet rage radiating silently from his conversing partner. "If you are accusing me of following her, you…. you are mistaken."

Armin opened his mouth to reply, but at that time, a train came into the platform, howling and screeching, steel against steel, and drowned his words. Several moments of silence passed between them – as Tachibana continued to look closely at Armin with a quiet rage, and Armin attempted to remain calm.

"Don't come near me. I don't ever want to see your face again."

With those final words, Tachibana entered the train, and disappeared from Armin's sight.

- Ever since the day the Universe was formed, everything has been decided

Just let me love you -

(The Day After, Classroom 2-1, After School)

You are…

Don't say it.

You are clearly…

Stop! Stop!

"What's that? A new type of theatrical act?" A sass, crass voice resounded in hear ears, and Mikasa looked up to see the familiar face of Eren Yeager looking at her from beyond the classroom door, grinning. She was about to say something witty back at him, make him swallow his own words, but nothing came out of her mouth. Instead, she just opened, and closed it again, feeling like an idiot.

"You have been squirming a lot in your seat, didn't even hear me calling, did you?" Eren moved in closer and sat next to her in the empty classroom. "You were like this." He covered his ears and began to wriggle around in his seat, like a worm tied by invisible set of strings. Mikasa's face reddened.

"You're joking." She must have looked completely ridiculous.

"I'm not," he grinned. "Is that the kind of thing everyone is into lately?"

"Stop mocking me," said Mikasa, flushed red. "I'm just… I was thinking."

"No wonder. Is that how smart people think? Maybe I should try it, see if it can up my grades."

She slapped him on the shoulders. "Fine, mock me all you want if it makes you satisfied. Jerk," she put emphasis on the last word, which made him grin even wider.

"Don't be mad. I'm just here to offer you a walk."

"To the station?"

"No, to the palace. Of course it's to the station, where else?"

And have you kiss me again along the way and pretend there was nothing about it, like now? Mikasa almost said it, but she quickly bit her lips. Her mind rolled back to the scene just at lunch break, when she and Ayako stood side by side, and she desperately asking her best friend for advice on how to act. She remembered Ayako, clutching her warm drink to stop herself from freezing, and her desperate laugh, at Mikasa's lack of knowledge, and lack of experience.

She remembered Ayako's frustration when the brown-haired girl finally pulled her closer by the arm, and whispered to her ear.

You are in love with Yeager.

Mikasa had heard a lot, read a lot, about blank spaces between memories, a period where human brains completely blacked out and refused to make memories, caused by a total shock. But she had never experienced it herself, never known how it felt like, until that afternoon.

She didn't remember how she reacted to Ayako's words. She didn't remember what she said, or did. It was all a complete blank. When she returned to her memories, she was already sitting back in her classroom, with Ayako by her side, looking very concerned.

"What..?" she asked. And Ayako was suddenly very relieved when Mikasa finally showed some reactions to her.

"Thank GOD. I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…," she chirped, squeezing Mikasa so tight she almost couldn't breathe.

"What happened?" asked Mikasa, lost between her friend's strands of fluffy light-brown hair.

"I'm so sorry, Mikasa… Don't be angry to me…please?"

Mikasa, of course, didn't know what to say. She didn't even remember. But according to Ayako, Mikasa just stopped responding to her – got up, and immediately went back to the classroom. She wouldn't respond no matter how much Ayako called her and apologized. Ayako really thought Mikasa was so angry at her that she refused to speak – and the girl was pretty much in the same state of shock as Mikasa, when she found out that her friend didn't actually do it on purpose – she really didn't remember anything.

Contrary to that, though, Ayako's last words – ones that she remembered, at least – rang again and again in her ears, echoed inside her brain, until at some point she could almost feel like they were tattooed inside her mind.

You are in love with Yeager.

No, I can't be.

How can you know? You've never been in love, her mind spoke again to her, annoyingly, in Ayako's voice. That's why the kiss meant so much to you. That's why you're desperate to know if it also meant something for him too. It all makes sense.

No, it doesn't!

Just stop resisting. We all know it.

"Oi, Mikasa!" Eren gave her a tap on the shoulder. "You're really not listening to me, are you?"

She blinked a few times, trying to bring her mind back to the present. "I'm – I'm sorry," she stuttered. They were halfway to the station, and again she couldn't remember how they got here. Her mind was too busy replaying the scene with Ayako, and fighting with the annoying voice. She needed to stop this. She'd had enough living a day – let alone her entire existence – like this, filled with questions. She had to make sure.

"I – I have a question to ask you, Eren." Her tone was firm. And at that Eren knew, what was coming had to come, sooner or later.

"I know," he replied, unexpectedly managed to sound calm, though his insides felt jittery, like all his organs suddenly were alive and started jumping around. "I have something to say to you too."

It was one of those moments, when they both perfectly knew, there was something unspoken between them. It was one of those moments that Mikasa would call a milestone, one day in the future when she looked back at this memory with some kind of fondness. They both knew what to say, and that they had to say it – they just didn't know how. Mikasa never struggled so much with words until now.

Because the moment she stood facing him, slightly looking up toward his pair of emerald green eyes and his crooked, furtive smile, nothing else seemed to come to mind. She never knew, that out of a billion words that existed in the dictionary for her to use, it could be this difficult to find the right words.

For a few seconds, it started to feel like a recollection of yesterday's event, they were both standing in the street toward the train station, bathed in pale winter sunlight. He didn't smoke this time, but she stood close enough to him that she almost could feel his body heat. She remembered that feeling again, being entangled in his arms, close enough to feel his breath ghosting on her skin.

And suddenly, just as abrupt as the way that memory had invaded her mind, Mikasa felt that it didn't matter. Not now, at least. Because there was only so much words could convey. And this time, words couldn't carry the weight of her feelings at all. It was something beyond words, something that both she and he knew, but couldn't describe. And she didn't feel the need to ruin it.

At this thought, she felt much lighter. Her smile emerged, and Eren was a bit surprised to see her face lighting up.

"Never mind," she said playfully. Her sudden change of attitude, from serious to cheerful, seemed to confuse him. "What?" he asked, dumbfounded.

"I said, never mind," she laughed at his confusion. "Eren, I…. I think I know what you're going to say," she locked her pair of stormy grey eyes with him. He was slightly stunned. "And I think you must know my question too, but… for now… I'm not going to ask you to explain anything. I'm just going to keep it… the way it is. The way it's supposed to be," she thought slightly to herself.

"Some things aren't meant to be explained," she continued. "At least… that's how I feel now."

"You're not…," Eren paused. "Not angry? At me…?"

"If you give me a reason to be angry, of course I will," said Mikasa, eyeing him carefully. "Do you want me to be angry?"

"Of course I don't," he answered before he could help it. "But… let me just say this," he clapped his hands in front of his chest and bowed to her. "I know I was wrong yesterday. I shouldn't have done that. It was extremely, extremely, impolite to you." She was at loss for words for a while. "It's fine, Eren… I told you, there's no need to explain."

"But I want you to know that I'm not sorry," he finished his words. He lifted up his face to look at her, and was somewhat satisfied to find her blushing red. "Next time I will do it properly. I promise."

She could feel her face reddening. How did he find the courage to say such thing, straight to her face, without even a single moment of doubt? But then again, it was very much like him to go after what he wanted, only looking forward, not letting anything ever stop him. It was the reason why she fell for him in the first place.

And, she realized now, that Ayako was right about her.

She was in love.

She had been in love with him, for a long time. She didn't know when, she didn't even realize it. But as she tried to trace her memory back, through both the dark and sweet times, the first thing she remembered was always him. He told her to fight, when no one else would. Pulled her out from darkness and gave her another home, though only for a short while. Sure, he could be a jerk – but there were countless times that she could feel his heart, his warmth. And he left her with a memento – a red scarf now tied securely around her neck. An epitome, and forever a memory, of his warmth. A piece of himself that he left with her.

She inhaled, and, once again, a smile formed on her lips.

"We shall see about it," her eyes twinkled slightly with happiness. Her free hand jumped to play with the end of her red scarf. He returned her smile, grinning sheepishly. Guess he was kind of embarrassed with his declaration, after all.

"So…," they both started, but then paused. She flicked her glance to her right hand side, and he gave a slight laugh.

"Loser pays for lunch tomorrow?"

"Deal," said Mikasa, flexing her muscles. Eren faced forward, ready for what's coming.

"Okay, ready… set…"

"GO!"

And they both raced toward the station, amidst the crisp weather and the last streaks of orange sunlight rays in that winter afternoon.

[betweenlifeandfiction]

Another me  (part 2)

Imagine you become someone else. That’s what happens to Kang Min Sun. After unclear circumstances she starts new life as Hana. That’s how she meets Kwon Jiyong and the rest of YG artists. At first it seems like a dream but nobody’s life perfect and soon Min Sun will learn this lesson.

Genre: melodrama/comedy/fantasty

It’s meant to be wrote in style of kdrama. Jiyong as a male lead and Seunghyun as a second lead. Reader as Min Sun/Hana- female lead.

Part 1

Kim Ha Na, more known as Hana. She debuted in 2014 as a solo artist after being the YG trainee. Her first album was sucessful and later she recorded two songs with T.O.P and G-Dragon. She also had few cameos in dramas. She’s said to have come back at the end of this year.

These were basic information about a person who was apparently you now. Or you was actually this person. In her body. Trying to figure it out was causing another panic attacks so you just decided to stay glued to computer and continue reading information about Kim Hana. You stucked in some apartment and before you left hospital, bodyguard had to deal with reporters in front of building. Until your leg was broken you had to act like you was really a person in whom body you lived. You had to act you remember things so you tried to find as much news about Hana as possible. You had to act that you’re not scared of a fact that you actually moved in time from 1998 to 2018.

Hana, you can search Internet on your phone. It’s uncomfortable to sit at the table woth plastered leg. You manager said and put this weird, flat thing on a desk. Your previous phone looked simpler but this one was colorful and had big screen without keyboard. It looked so complicated and it was locked by password that you didn’t remember.

Want me to help you to sit on bed? Manager asked you.

I.. I wanna eat ramen. you changed subject.

Ramen? You always eat greece salad at this hour.

You stopped yourself from making surprised face. Your manager came up to fridge. You would normally tell him to mind his business but you tightened your mouth to stop yourself from comments. This girl seemed polite and strict. Unlike you with your bad temper and laziness. You looked again at beautiful furnitures around you. This place looked expensive.

It’s a dream to live in so great apartment. you sighed to yourself.

That’s why it’s yours. This is one of your favourites, isn’t it? Man added and gave you your salad.

Do I have another apartments? you asked without thinking. He looked at you surprised behind his round glasses. Ah.. Right. Now I remember. Everything comes back to my mind.

You doubted it sounded reliably but it was better than nothing. Then your manager said he would leave your for a while to buy more products to your kitchen. It was so unusual to be treated this way. For the next week you literally studied from Internet about korean wave, idols and YG artists. Meantime you started private rehabilitation with doctor at your home. Even beautician came to take care of your skin and nails. You felt like a princess.

Ah.. What a beautiful life. you sighed and took another seafood from your plate. You was sitting on the folding chair in fluffy robe. Month have passed in the blink of an eye.

Hana, your mother calls you. your menager told you and he took your iphone from a table and handed it to you.

My mom? you said with enthusiasm before you realized he didn’t mean your real mom. It felt awkward at first but later you just acted like you really talked by phone with someone who was your mother. You planned to find out about her and leave this place after convalescence.

No. There’s really no need to fly from USA, mom. I’m getting better. you said at the end when Mrs.Kim suggested to visit you.

Anyway. I’ll visit you in nearer future. Call me more often.

Yes. Thanks. Bye, mom.

Few minutes later when you ened your conversation, your phone started to ring again. You saw a name on a lockscreen: Yang Hyun Suk.

Answer for me. you asked your menager.

Oh.. Ok. he mumbled. Yes, Mr. Yang? Here’s Park Dae Hyun. Yes. She’s better now. Doctor said she will be able to walk without struches soon. Meeting? Tomorrow? Yes, sir. I think we will handle it. Goodbye.

What meeting? you asked when Dae Hyun disconnected.

All artists have a meeting with CEO to sum up current projects and establish new things.

When next day your driver stopped a car in front of YG buildling, you couldn’t believe what you saw. Dozens of photoreporters and not less of fans gathered close to your car. Your manager told you to put sunglasses on and asked two bodyguards to go out first.

Hana! Hana! group of girls started to scream when you went on the sidewalk. You collides with your bodyguard’s back when he pushed away intrusive reporter. Now you knew you was said to hide behind sunglasses. Flashes of cameras were so blinding. Everybody around tried to come closer and take a photo or record you. Second bodyguard and your manager helped you to walk by crutches and enter entrance. When you finally came to elevator, you could say that you felt safe. Your manager opened a door to big conference room. All eyes turned to you.

Welcome back, Hana. Please, take a seat. you heard familiar voice. It was CEO Yang. You watched few videoclips with him during your stay at apartment. You actually got know about all of these people in room. Three man on the left were from Epik High. Then girls from Blackpink and boys from Winner. You still didn’t remember names of all of them.

Good morning. you said and you barely bowed.

Here’s free place. said a man with small eyes and prominent nose. It was Kang Daesung. Rest of members were sitting next to him on the right side. When you sat, you looked closely. You recognized that man behind dark glasses was T.O.P. You was curious if he was as handsome as on photos but you could only see his profile. The next one was a dark-haired man in weird clothes, G-Dragon. He had a face that even women could envy. Then it was maknae of Big Bang, Seungri. He looked at you and smiled at the same time with Taeyang who was next to him. You shyly bowed what was nothing like you but it was a first time when so many handsome men was looking at you at the same time. It felt so great to live like a celebrity and be a real beauty. Maybe I should live this dream a little bit longer? You thought.

Ok. If everybody’s present, let’s start. CEO annouced. He discussed with Winner about their tour and then he looked at you.

Hana-sshi, we’re glad that you’re fine. YG will take care about press but I would like you to give an interview after few months. Reporters are at the building so please, agree with Dae Hyun if you want to make a short statement. It’s the best moment when they know that you arrived here.

Yes. you answered shortly.

We will talk about that planned collaboration with GD when you fully recover. Mr. Yang continued. You stifled your moan, hearing this. So you was meant to start some project with GD? Shit..

We will talk it out when Hana will be in good shape. Meantime I will be re-writing a song. you heard Kwon Ji Yong.

That’s all right. CEO said and looked at you again. I hope it won’t take more than a month for you to be able to work again. I’m really rooting for this project but that schedule is not a problem for you.

I will work hard. You anwered just like these all idols from videos used to say. These informations helped you a lot to deal with this situation but after Mr Yang’s words you suddenly felt so helpless. Trainees worked hard for years to improve their singing and dancing skills. You had no preparation, you couldn’t sing or dance, you didn’t know how to talk with press and the most importantly you was different person with your own memories and experiences.

I’m fully responsible for someone’s sucess now. you whispered to yourself when you left a room.

What? your menager asked you.

Nothing. I need to go to bathroom. you suddenly said.

I can’t go to female..

I know. I’m able to pee on my own. Don’t worry. you interrupted him. He looked embarrased. You entered toilet and looked around. It was only you. You wanted to try again with phone call to your mom. You only wanted to hear her voice. The last time there was no answer. Maybe she changed her number? It’s been ten years. Your heart was beating so fast and then you heard someone’s voice.

Hello?

You froze. Female voice asked again. It sounded exactly like your sister’s. But she was living in Busan and you wasn’t that close.

H-Hello? you stuttered.

Who’s there?

You knew she couldn’t recognize you when your voice was different so you found a new solution.

Hello. Is it Mrs.Kang‘s phone?

Oh.. Yes. But she can’t talk. Your sister answered.

When can I call her then?

Who are you? She asked you after a while. She was always suspicious.

I’m.. Sun Min’s friend from high school. I lost her number and some of former friends wanted to meet up.

I’m sorry.. You probably didn’t know it. She said with tensed voice. My sister is dead for ten years.

Suddenly you wasn’t able to make any sound. You even couldn’t move. It felt like you was close to fainting.

I’m really sorry but I can’t help you. I thought that all of her friends knew. I’m at the hospital. Our mother had a stroke few months ago.

Then you could only hear her crying. And you was crying with her. On the other side of line. When you already disconnected and fell to the ground. Your sob mingled with a sound of falling crutches.

Mom.. I’m sorry. You sobbed loudly and touched your chest with pain. It felt like something was tearing apart inside of you. I’m dead, I’m dead..

What’s happening there? some low voice came out behind a door.

I’m dead.. I died. You kept repeating in silent voice. Tears were still falling. You saw long legs in black, laquered boots in front of you.

Hana? What happend?

You looked up. Choi Seunghyun was standing in the doorstep.

Where’s you menager? he kept asking. Some man behind him, moved closer and picked up your crutches. They both looked shocked and you slowly realized that you was sitting in the middle of the public toilet with probably blurred make-up and red eyes. This pain inside was so strong and you couldn’t do anything. And you didn’t want to move. Do anything.

Come on. Seunghyun said and grabbed your hands. You forced yourself to stand up.

Hana!

Your manager showed up. Tht other man gave you crutches and put sunglasses on your face.

That’s better when you’re leaving in front of many people. he suggested.

What’s going on? I only left to buy coffe. Your menager said.

Why did you leave her when you know she has problems with walking now? Seunghyun said with irritation. You looked into his eyes behind dark glasses. His eyes had so deep, dark shade and thick lashes.

Aish.. She always drinks coffe at this hour. I thought it won’t take that long. Your manager kept whining when four of you walked corridor.

Thank you. I’m thankful. You said to T.O.P and grabbed his hand. He shuddered with surprise.

Are you ok? You don’t seem good. Why did you cry? Men next to him- probably his manager asked.

It’s this accident.. you started and tears started falling down your cheeks again.

Aigoo.. She’s still stressed. Let’s go home, Hana. You can drink coffe in car. You manager said and took you by hand. Thank you for help. He said to T.O.P and his manager.

Hana, we’re family. You can count on us. T.O.P suddenly said. You nodded and went to elevator. It felt like this man was the one who understood what a real nervous breakdown meant. He seemed empathic. Maybe that’s why you grabbed his hand without thinking. It’s been a long time since someone sympathized with you.

[andersunmenschlich]

Just Visiting

The vacation was going quite well so far. We had only a few neighbors this far out in the country, and they were all the sort of people who left well enough alone.

Finding my 'footy pajamas' on top of the dryer, I zipped myself up into the seeming of a young, slender human of indeterminate gender and age, then put my hand out for the doorknob. It materialized accommodatingly, and I went into the kitchen. A tiny baby looked wearily at me from the kitchen sink where it was sitting, half-buried beneath the bubbles it was poking idly with a finger.

"I wish Mom would take me out of here," it said.

Ignoring this as an acceptable breach of protocol (babies are not supposed to talk, but it was the kind of thing that wouldn't spoil the game so long as no one took any notice), I fished beneath the bubbles and brought up the lump that shouldn't have been there. Rinsing the basketball in the other side of the sink, I put it, dripping, on the floor and went back to the door again. This time it took me to my room, where I selected suitable coverings for my body suit.

Climbing out the window, no longer apparently naked, I saw various other members of my family playing in the yard. Horseshoes and croquet were the order of the day, though some of the rules seemed slightly off from what I remembered of the Human Sports Guidebook. Still, never mind.

I waved at them and set off down the road.

Taking a Walk was definitely one of my favorite human activities, and I settled in to enjoy it, smelling the crisp autumn air, flavored ever so slightly with the scent of rotting leaves, gazing at the overcast, grey sky, and moving my new legs back and forth, back and forth, keeping myself precisely balanced atop them.

This had taken quite a bit of practice, and some of the newbies still weren't very good at it, or couldn't do it at all—take, for instance, the one who'd chosen to be the baby.

The dusty, black-paved road was empty as far as the eye could see, but I walked along the left side of it anyway. You could never be too sure, and I didn't care for such a sudden end to my vacation. If I played it properly, I could be here for years! I looked around at the naked trees, browning grass and surrounding mountains with satisfaction. This world really was so much better than our own, which (I caught myself just in time) I was not going to think about. Even remembering the tiniest bit of it could taint present enjoyment. I sighed, watching the warm air puff out in front of me in a thin, gossamer wisp. It wasn't cold enough yet for breathing cumulus clouds, but cirrus clouds are just as good in my opinion.

A car passed me, windows down, bass thumping, temporarily destroying the gentle noises of birds and insects and the tops of trees moving in a soft, high breeze. I scowled. Some people's games. Still, it was too pretty a day in too pretty a realm of existence for me to waste my time trying to get my suit to generate the appropriate level of irritation long enough for me to bask in it properly, so I gave it up.

Walking on, I found myself on the outskirts of town. There were sidewalks now, and I moved to one, admiring the subtle sparkles in the concrete.

People muffled in coats and scarves hurried past me occasionally, going this way or that in the kind of mindless rush that indicated either genuine humanity or dedicated roleplaying. Dad enjoyed that kind of thing, which was why he'd chosen to be Dad this time around. I didn't see how he could stand it. Even the few pedestrians here were bothering me a little. Imagine if I had to interact with them! I thought about that for a while, watching the clouds overhead move against each other as I wandered slowly forward, the occasional passerby giving me a wide berth.

It could almost be fun, I thought, if you played it right. A different kind of game, using the inhabitants and not just the world. Riskier, though, for if you played wrong and did something that might ruin this plane for everyone, you could end up—

I cut that thought off as finally as I had the last errant one, and directed my attention to the houses. They were closer together here, fences separating one tiny patch of grass or stones from another. The curtains in most houses were drawn, indicating the absence of the inhabitants, but a few were open, revealing living rooms in various states of occupancy. The only moving things in most of them were on television screens. Now, we had a television, but I still wasn't entirely sure how it worked or what the point of it was. Frankly, I wasn't interested. Artificial atmospheres can be created anywhere. Natural ones are much more valuable, and I intended to enjoy every moment I had access to this one.

There was a sudden, sharp blow to the back of my head, and I passed out.

—~—~—

Blinking, I found myself in a darkish room lit by candles and the dim glow of a dying fire. There was deep, light-colored carpet on the floor where I was lying, and a dark-colored armchair behind me. I sat up and discovered that the clothes over my 'footie pajamas' had changed to something that looked a good deal like a maid outfit. I stood up and had a look in the mirror above the fireplace mantel. No, I still couldn't really see anything. With a flick of my hand, I turned on the lights. Yes, definitely a maid outfit. Old-fashioned, knee-length skirt, high neckline, apron. Maid outfit.

One of the doors in the wood-paneled walls opened slightly. In the mirror, a man's head appeared in the crack and looked around. It vanished, and I heard a whisper: "She found the light switch."

Ah, so I was a girl in this scenario. All right, I could do that.

"That's all right, it's fine, get out of the way!" an imperious whisper responded, and there was some scuffling outside the door. I turned to face it as it was flung open by a man in black dress pants, a white t-shirt with a red vest buttoned neatly over it, and a long black tailcoat. "So you're awake!" he cried melodramatically. "Good, good!"

I raised an eyebrow, a nuance of expression I was particularly fond of, and he seemed slightly thrown, but not for long.

"We've been needing a new maid for a while now, and you are it!" he explained in a voice which was evidently meant to be threatening. "Behave or we'll kill you!" There was a brief pause, then, in a much more cheerful tone, with a bright smile: "Okey-dokey?"

Really, the games some people play.

There was a long pause as I thought it over. Well, I had been considering a more active vacation, and while these people were clearly aliens bent on taking over Earth, what did I care? They were of this plane and could do what they liked. So long as I didn't interfere, there was no reason I shouldn't enjoy myself. "Yes, sir," I replied, and gave a little curtsy. "Excellent!" he exclaimed, and both men left.

It took me a little while to settle into the swing of being a maid. This was a role I had never exactly studied, and while the aliens were unlikely to notice any mistakes on my part, that wouldn't be playing the game. None of the books in the library helped. Most of them didn't even come off the shelves, and the few that did made no sense, being entirely comprised of word salad. Nonetheless, I did my best, and soon felt quite at home in the large, anachronistically decorated and constructed mansion, even becoming more or less accustomed to the many strange doors, each leading to one of its same two rooms every time. The main thing they seemed to want me for was wandering about entirely focused on flicking every inch of every surface with a large feather duster, but closing doors behind every one of the six or so oddly-clothed aliens so that the next one could fling them open dramatically also took up a great deal of my time.

One day, however, they asked me to bring a tea tray to their meeting room on the second floor. This was not an uncommon request, and I made up a plate of sandwiches and a pot of tea. Putting all this on a tray with some teacups, I went upstairs.

Are maids supposed to wait for permission before going into rooms? I did knock. But it seems they weren't quite ready for me. Instead of a room of six or so eccentric human gentlemen seated around a large, oval table, I carried the tea tray into a room of six of so eccentric alien tentacle monsters looking out windows, standing by the table, or examining the bric-a-brac on some of the shelves. They all seemed shocked by my sudden appearance at such an inopportune time, but the shock was rather overdone and artificial.

"What are you doing here??" exclaimed the head of the gentleman who'd greeted me when I woke up in the parlor a few weeks previous, slithering toward me on the many long tentacles growing from his neck. "Yes, what's she doing here??" the other tentacle-heads agreed, also slithering up to surround me.

"Bringing you your tea, sirs," I informed them calmly, hoisting the tray slightly to bring it to their attention.

"You weren't poking and prying?"

I shook my head.

"Not trying to discover what we're up to, uncover and thwart our nefarious plot?"

I shook my head.

"Well, whyever not? You haven't poked or pried once since you got here! What's wrong with you??"

"I'm not interested, sir," I told him. "Too much trouble." As they all stood aghast, swaying slightly on their tentacles, I lifted the tray again. "Would you like your tea?"

"Er... yes, thank you."

I put it on the table and left. It struck me as rather unfortunate that I couldn't stay at the mansion any longer, but I really didn't want my vacation cut short. Going out the gate, off the grounds of the mansion, I breathed the crisp autumn air, scented heavily by automobile fumes, looked up past the bare branches of the trees and the looming tops of the tall buildings to the clouds moving in the gray-blue sky, and smiled. It was going to be a long walk home.

[amec0617-wips]

WIP 1 Chapter 1

I'm Paul Barnes, just a normal kid from New York, well before everything went and changed. I used to be the Student Body Head of The Brooklyn Technical High School. I was kind of famous for being a natural-born leader, hence me being the Student Body President. I have an identical twin named James, another famous persona in our school. People call us PB&J, like the sandwich, which was ironic to say the least because we are definitely not like the sandwich. Unlike the sandwich, in which the flavors work in harmony, my brother and I don't. In fact, we're so dissimilar that being famous, and having the same family is probably the same thing we have in common. For example, I'm a smart fellow myself and, like I said earlier, a natural-born leader. He on the other hand, is not someone classified as smart but he is, however, a natural-born athlete. In our "tandem" I'm the brain and he's the muscle. Of course, we are still brothers, and twins nonetheless, so we still get along despite our differences, and use each other to the fullest. In PE, he would sometimes substitute for me and I would sometimes help him study or, and I'm pretty sure this would get both of us kicked, I also substitute him come his quizzes. But anyways, enough about us. This story is a different one, this story is about how everything changed and how James and I became the most famous 15 year-olds in all of America. I'll let the narrator take this one, I want to listen for myself too.

The day started normally despite the occasion of Paul and James' 15th birthday. Paul was very fond of this because it was calm and not nerve-racking, his brother however, was not. James was quite upset that their parents were still at work despite it being their birthday.

"Cheer up James," said Paul as he ate a spoonful of cereal. "Listen man, mom and dad are people that aren't easily content. Look around, our family's net worth is probably around 1 million dollars but mom and dad are still at work. That isn't necessarily bad, I mean more money means more stuff and more food am I right? Besides, we're 15 now, quit your whining. Now go drink your weird drink and get ready for school."

"Your right, I guess." replied James "and it isn't weird its a protein shake, I need it for my physique and it helps me in training."

"Say what you want about that stuff but I'm just surprised you even know what physique means."

After breakfast, the brothers got to their family's car and got the driver to drive them to school. At school, their friends greeted them and the rest of the day went just about as normal as Paul would hope. They went home after school and what greeted them home shocked them.

"Surprise sons!" greeted their parents

"Mom and Dad!" exclaimed James with a smile clear as day on his face. "I thought you had a whole day of work ahead of you?"

"We decided to get home early so we can buy you gifts and celebrate for your birthdays." replied their Dad

"Yes, here are your presents sons," added their Mom as she handed them two boxes wrapped in gift wrapper "go ahead and open them. I hope you like them"

"Thanks, you shouldn't have though." replied Paul. He opened the box and in it was a red watch. It looked expensive although he can't really tell the brand. "Thanks a lot" he said with a smile on his face.

"Come and let's eat dinner, your Mom cooked your favorite food, from Caesar Salad Appetizer to Coffee Ice Cream Desert, of course I helped too."

The family went to eat dinner and talk about what's happening in their individual lives. A little past 11 pm and the brothers decided to call it a day, after all it was a school night. Before going to their different rooms, Paul called for James' attention.

"Hey big guy,"

James looked back at Paul who has reaching for a fist bump.

"Happy Birthday to us."

James bumped Paul's fist and replied "Happy Birthday to us. Here's to another year of putting up with you."

"You're one to speak" replied Paul as he laughed and looked away to go to his room.

Paul instantly got to sleep, where he had a weird dream.

"Paul Barnes. A new challenge awaits you and your brother. I wish you both the best and may you prosper."

In a snap, Paul woke up, his hands were sweaty but he wiped the sweat off. He looked at his new watch and saw it was 5 am.

"Weird dream. I guess it got me to wake up in time."

He went to his brother's room and knocked the door to wake him up.

"Hey Muscles, wake up and do what you do already, it's 5 am!"

"I'm awake Big Brain, shut up."

Paul went about his morning and got to school as normal. His friends were ushering him to the school's auditorium as he got to school.

"C'mon dude the Student Body has been asking us all morning where you've been." exclaimed his friend Alex. "Hey where have you been?"

"What do you mean? It's 6:30 this is the usual time I get to school."

"You know, of all people, I didn't expect "Mr. All A's Student Body President" to forget about today." added Elle, another of Paul's friends.

"Forget about what?"

"It's Choosing Day you dunce."

"What Day?"

"Chooosing Day."

"What are we choossing?"

His friends suddenly looked at him with a weird face.

"What's wrong? Why are you both looking at me like I forgot what Christmas meant?"

"You are Paul right? I mean even James knows what day it is so what's up with you?" asked Alex

"James. You're right, I should find him."

"Too late the Principal is already looking at you."

Paul looked back and at the end of the hallway and there stood their school principal. Apparently his friends had already pushed him to the hallway beside their auditorium. He had no other choice but to run towards his principal.

"Mr. Barnes you're late." said his Principal with a disapproving look on his face. Paul had decided that it's best to go with the flow and see what's going to happen on this "Choosing Day".

"Sorry Mr. Moore, won't happen again."

"There is no again Barnes. Choosing Day is a one-time thing and you're late for it. I would expect your brother Jack to be late but not you."

"Sorry again Sir. If you wouldn't mind, I suggest we go on with the event now that I'm here."

"Stay here and I will start the event. I will call you when we will start The Choosing."

Mr. Moore entered the auditorium and went on stage to deliver a speech. "Welcome students of Brooklyn Magical School."

"Magical?" Paul whispered to himself as he heard the word. "That's not right, am I still dreaming?" He pinched himself a couple of times but nothing happened. He looked around the hallway windows to try and find his brother. He could only see the side seats though so he couldn't find his brother. His only chance was to find him as he went up the stage and talk to him after "The Choosing" but by that time then he'd have answered this mystery himself.

"I wish you all good luck and may you be lucky in the sprite that chooses you." continued Mr. Moore. The more Mr. Moore spoke, the more confused Paul became. "Now to start us of, may I call to the stage your Student Body President, Mr. Paul Hamill Barnes." It was Paul's queue to go upstage. The crowd cheered and applauded him as he went in the auditorium and up the stage. With a smile on his face, he waved at the crowd as he walked to hide the fact that he was looking for his brother. He spotted him as he was about to go upstage and he looked just as confused as Paul felt. Paul knew that his brother also didn't know what was going on and they were about to dive into something unknown headfirst. He was agitated at the fact that he was the guinea pig of this whole experiment but nevertheless he went on. He shook Mr. Moore's hand as he got on stage and Mr. Moore gestured for him to sit in a chair center stage. He sat on the chair and Mr. Moore spoke to the crowd. "Mr. Barnes, congratulations on your Choosing. Would you like to tell us what you expect to get today?"

Paul had no idea what to say but he realized that everything is pretty much the same as before, including the fact that he was still the Student Body President. He decides to use this information to the fullest and answered.

"I don't really have expectations sir, I'm just happy to be here. Maybe my fellow batchmates have any expectations?"

"Excellent idea Mr. Barnes. Would anyone want to share their expectations for Mr. Barnes' Choosing results?"

Some shouted "Ice!" while some shouted "Water!" and "Fire!" as well as "Wind!"

"Well Mr. Barnes, it looks like your batchmates expect you to be chosen by an elemental sprite. What do you have to say for that?"

Paul didn't know what to say again but still decided to answer, after all, he was trying to look normal.

"I guess we'll see about that guys."

Mr. Moore nodded and walked to the podium.

"Well then, with that, we shall start the Choosing for Mr. Paul H. Barnes." he said and looked towards paul and mouthed "Goodluck Mr. Barnes."

Mr. Moore pulled a lever on the podium and a tingling went through Paul's spine. In an instant, he fell asleep.

He was on an island. All alone, he decided to roam about with no idea what to do in mind. He seemed to be by the forest and the sea but the trees were too high and the fruits were out of his reach. He pondered how long he was going to be on the island and taught of ways to survive. All solutions seemed impossible. His physique was not meant to survive alone on an island, he wasn't strong nor agile nor durable, he was just smart and tactical, and that's when it hit him. He had to innovise a way to survive, he had to somehow get wood for shelter and a way to get the fruits of the trees above him. He went to find stone, lots of it. Sharp stones are going to be used as a means of scraping wood of tree barks and temporarily to cut vines. The other stones, he was still planning on using for something else like sparking a flame to start a fire. He started scraping the barks and cutting vines until he eventually got enough to make stone tools. Two pickaxes to climb the trees and get the fruits and a small axe so he can put more force in his bark scraping adventure. But before he could put his tools to use, he smelt something awful, it smelt bad, like burnt coal and then he looked up and saw black smoke. The forest is on fire and it's spreading fast. He ran away to the sea and but the fire was well on his tail. It engulfed everything and even set the sand on fire. He took a deep breath and dove in to the water. He knew he wasn't going to survive if he stayed in either the island or the sea. He still tried and taught of a way to survive. The plan was simple but it would be insane, he planned to go on the island to warm up so he doesn't die from the water's temperature but he realized something, he was sinking. He was sinking continously and he was out of breath, he tried to swim up for air but knew we wasn't going to make it. He took one last look around him and closed his eyes.

And then he woke up. He was back in the auditorium and it seemed like not a second has passed as Mr. Moore was just about to turn around.

"Well look at that, back so soon Mr. Barnes? Let's take a look at your results shall we? Uhm Mr. Sanchez, the screen please."

Paul turned around and saw on the giant screen behind him a word written in blue, all caps, and bold letters:

WATER

Everyone shouted and applauded.