#and yes i'm aware it's only june but

[polypodweek]

Welcome back - for the third time!

First, the obvious - Poly Podweek is coming back for another year! This time with a fresh futuristic look 😎

And in the spirit of the new look, there's once again been a couple of changes.

Unfortunately we're starting this announcement with some regrettable news.

After careful consideration it's been decided that Poly Podweek will slowly begin moving away from twitter. Reasons for that are many, from fandom in general migrating elsewhere to the platform's growing inaccessibility, it's quickly becoming clear twitter is hardly the best place to reach people anymore. For at least one more year the account will still be used to deliver bigger news, but everything else will be moved entirely to tumblr and AO3. Hopefully the impact of this decision will be minimal, still, apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Now for some better news! According to the polls conducted after the end of this year's event, the addition of treats has been overwhelmingly well received, which is reason enough to keep them around 😄 Thank you to everyone who voted, hope you keep enjoying treats in next year's fest as well. As always, if you have any suggestions on how to improve the current way treats are run, they'd be most welcome C:

That's it for now! It's still a bit early to say anything for certain, but so far it looks like everything else will be staying much the same as previous year. You can find the FAQ & Rules in their entirety at our tumblr, AO3 or carrd.

Till next time!

[beeseverywhen]

I mean like. Not to bring the mood down but... you guys know that's because American media is everywhere right? Like the world is unable to avoid some version of American accent on a regular basis. Of course ppl find it easy to mimic. This is absolutely not restricted to ppl in the UK, its really common for ppl who learn English as a foreign language to have perfect 'American actor' accents (cause the reason everyone's so good at the American accent that's expected of them as actors is cause at large there's little distinction between regions in the 'Hollywood accent' that ends up on TV and films and stuff. You guys have massive regional differences in pronounceation, but what makes it on to TV (in 9/10 cases) is a very standardised version of American English.)

But yeah. It's not just actors lol. Most British ppl can speak in a passable american accent, as can loads and loads of people worldwide. I'm not saying this to be like 'you should feel guilty! 😡' but it does always stun me when Americans are unaware of the impact their country has worldwide on all versions of English (and even on use of native languages. Many countries are using English more and more over their native languages and dialects , and yeah, historical colonialism has had an impact there.)

But in the last few decades things have progressed way way faster and that, is thanks to the impact of anglo/american/ect lead capitalism. I'm in no way dismissing the impact the UK has on this, but in recent years, its the US that is largely pushing that train .While the UK and several English speaking commonwealth countries are very involved in this kind of capitalist imperialism, there's a reason that more and more people are speaking American English. Not one of the many UK dialects, not Australian English, or NZ English. Across the world more and more people are increasingly speaking in the same standardised american dialect that's in so much of the media you export. Hollywood based media, with that standardised accent/ dialect and the standardised 'normal american life', has a stranglehold on the world and I just find it crazy that a lot of you guys don't even know.

It's stupid stuff like. So many countries are importing american cars and are widening their roads/ changing town planning to account for it (this is less of a thing in the UK but I see it more and more when I travel). Its the food becoming avaliable everywhere. Its the influence that for profit healthcare has even on countries with socialised health systems. Its houses being built to account for American style appliances. Fashion trends. Worldwide, everything is slowly evolving to be closer and closer to this 'American standard' which honestly? I really don't think actually represents the lives of real American people either. You've been turned in to products, the system has taken an unrealistic snapshot of 'American life' and it's being sold to you all day in day out, but it's also being sold to the rest of us. It's being pushed on us all.

Kids in the UK go through phases of talking only in American accents. Anyone born later than the 90s is carrying round 2 sets of spelling and vocab, cause we're all so used to the American way, that you barely know which one you're using half of the time. In the UK we have always had really strong regional accents yeah, and dialects differ between areas that seem tiny to you guys, I know. But like. Those dialects are being lost cause all UK accents are evolving to become closer to this standardised american and yeah not great, but at least we share a language! US American society is largely rooted in the same foundations as UK society, largely we have the same flaws! But oh my god. What about the rest of the world.

It's global. This impact continues to be seen, steamrollering ahead, in places that had completely different starting points. UK culture isn't that dissimilar to that of the US, so we aren't losing nearly as much as cultures that had something completely different. So much is being lost.

Languages and dialects and everything else is just being wallpapered over so we all meet the same ideal of the 'American life' and it's not even real! It's just a product based on how ppl were actually living in the US, manipulated until it's the most marketable mould. You guys are victims of it as well but like. It's based on your culture so you don't lose as much if you conform to it. Just like how in the UK, if we conform, we lose more than US, but nowhere near as much as countries that had languages, dialects and cultures that were so so different to UK/US culture. The less like the US, your starting point, the more there is to lose.

And look. I said it to start with. I'm not having a go. That's not what this is. But you guys really need to be aware, you need to make an effort to understand the impact that this plastic Hollywood american culture is having on the rest of the world. You need to actively look for it, and make an effort to not pay in to it. Because when Americans see other cultures represented in media and say its not relatable, when you guys go on holiday and make no effort to learn local customs, and try and pay in dollars and spend your time abroad like you're still in America, when you see cultural differences and immediately argue that the American way is better and of course everyone should have giant cars and never dry laundry outdoors and live in American style homes, without any kind of critical thought. Just 'this is how we do it so why wouldn't everyone else do it this way. This is the only way. The American way is obviously best.' When you guys do that you are individually feeding in to this absolute bulldozing of cultures (including American ones!) to allow for better marketability.

It isn't any one individual American citizens fault that things are the way they are, and you guys are victims of the same system, but you need to have some self awareness when it comes to the fact that as individuals you are unknowingly, helping driving this forwards and as individuals, there are things you can do to limit your personal impact (and no arguing that you have no culture is not it!!! Being all self deprecating doesn't do shit. Take some responsibility and accept that individual Americans didn't create this system, but currently, individual Americans really are doing their bit to keep promoting it, to keep pushing it on the rest of the world.

And I've already rambled for an age so I'll stop here but I just want to make clear as an ending note here, that this really isn't about piling on Americans and being all 'boo it's all America's fault. They should apologise. Their culture isn't worth anything.' Not at all this is the opposite of that. The fact that millions of Americans have been convinced you have no culture, all while a mimicry of American culture is plastered on to the rest of the world, and while you as individuals are encouraged to help that happen, often without even realising what you're doing; is a crime. You've been wronged, as have we all.

And America is not the problem. The problem is imperialism and it didn't start with you guys. It started in Europe, and Europeans, particularly British ppl, have a responsibility to push back and be self aware, take some fucking responsibility and not inadvertently keep feeding in to that system, just as you guys do. The US didn't start the fire, imperialist capitalism is a fire that started burning long before the United States was even considered, but its on all of us, to do what we can to not feed that fire. And right now? You guys are the face of it.

This idea of what America is, is the face of imperialistic capitalism, and that means that even if you don't mean to, you guys are feeding that fire more so than the rest of us. You're responsible for spreading it, more so than the rest of us. And if you don't step up and take responsibility, accept that you're gonna get it wrong sometimes and you need to try to do better; if we don't all do that. There will be nothing left. They'll paper over it all, the lives of real Americans just as much as those in Scotland and India and the Netherlands, and 100 other cultures, that are at risk, thanks to this fire, that's currently, largely coming from America.

So yeah. It's absolutely not just on you guys and ppl who act like there's no racism or wealth divide in Europe or anywhere else for that matter are complete idiots, however, this Americanisation of the world (and I hesitate to call it that. Because its not a representation of real American lives. Its simply wearing an American face.) Its real. It's happening.

And we don't tell you about it to make you feel guilty (those of us who aren't dicks at least) ,we are telling you. We are kicking up a fuss. Because it isn't fair. It's not right and while individual Americans ignore that and refuse to take responsibility where they can (small apples. We aren't asking for you to call a violent revolution in our names. Just take some time to learn about the rest of the world. Stop assuming America is always right and examine your biases. When you find them. Stop personally pushing them.) , while that is happening, as individuals, you are contributing to this. It's not even altruism. This system is hurting Americans too. It's hurting us all. All we ask is that you do what you can to not personally contribute, and keep an open mind, be aware. That's all any of us can do.

when a british actor does an american accent everyone’s like “i didn’t even know they were british until they were on colbert.” but when americans do a british accent everyone’s like “they’re supposed to be from east cocksford but their glottal e’s are north dicksford. shameful.”

[favefandomimagines]

blue eyes crying in the rain (a.b)

Summary: your marriage with Anthony was a dream; until it all went slightly sour.

AN: I love a good angsty Anthony fic

When you first met Anthony Bridgerton, it was like time stopped. You had heard the rumors that he was not searching for a marriage built of love but a marriage built on duty. But everything changed when Daphne introduced her friend and her brother. It was as if you were the only people in the room.

Everyone else simply did not exist. He was charming, intelligent, he made you feel as if you were the most beautiful woman in the world.

Anthony was enamored with you. You were the perfect woman physically but you were perfect just simply a person. You made him laugh, made him feel seen and loved. It was terrifying to him that one day the same fate that took his father would take you too.

But he could not care any less. The two of you wed at the end of June and everything was purse bliss. Until you returned from your honeymoon. It had not taken much for you to become with child and you were pregnant. Once you became pregnant, Anthony changed. He spent more and more time in his study or with his brothers.

You rarely saw him outside of going to bed and you felt isolated. You were going through this pregnancy alone. Had he regretted the marriage? Were you not desirable anymore now that you were with child? Too many intrusive thoughts clouded your brain and you had no one to talk to. You would rather not alert the rest of the family to the troubles that you and Anthony were facing. So you were handling that alone as well.

It was late one night, way past midnight by the time Anthony got home. Benedict was dragging him across the foyer of your home as you stood on the stairs in your robe.

“Y/N, what are you doing up? You shouldn’t be awake at this hour in your condition.” Benedict commented. “Well, I was waiting for my husband but that seemed futile two hours ago.” You replied. “My apologies, Y/N. I did not mean to keep him out so late.” Benedict replied.

“It was my idea, my darling Y/N. We had some business to attend to.” Anthony slurred. “You have been attending to business quite a bit.” You spoke. Both Bridgerton brothers could see that you were not pleased.

Benedict excused himself, giving you a smile before exiting the home. “Anthony, this has gotten out of hand.” You spoke. “What has?” He questioned. “You are gone all hours of the night, while I’m left alone.” You answered.

“It feels as though I'm facing this pregnancy alone. You're never here!” You added. “I have responsibilities, Y/N. You know that.” Anthony replied. “Responsibilities? Is that what you call it? Neglecting your wife and child?” You rebutted. “I provide for you, don’t I? Is that not enough?” Anthony argued back.

“No, Anthony, it is not! I need you here, with me, not off attending to your clubs and politics!” You yelled. This was the first time you had raised your voice with Anthony. It was a side to you he had never seen before.

"Those clubs and politics secure our future, Y/N. You think I do this for fun?" Anthony said back. “When you are gone every night, yes I think you do it for fun. I think you've forgotten what's truly important. I'm carrying your child!" You said. "And I'm doing everything I can to ensure our child's future!" Anthony yelled back.

"What about our present? What about me? Do I not deserve your time?" You asked him. "I don't have time to argue about this." Anthony said, rather than answering.

He walked around you back up the stairs, walking away from you and the argument. "That's your answer to everything, isn't it? Avoidance!" You called after him. "I can't be with you every moment. You knew this when we married." Your husband said.

“I am aware of that Anthony, but I didn't expect to feel so alone in my own marriage." You replied, following after him.. “You’re being unfair.” Anthony said, stopping to turn to you. "I'm being honest! I need you, Anthony. Our child needs you." You told him, standing face to face with him. “I’m doing the best I can!” Anthony yelled.

There was a rage in his eyes that scared you. This was not the man you had married, this was a completely different person. Where did the love he had for you go? Where had the kind, gentle man go?

“Your best isn’t good enough. Not anymore. Every time I look at you, I see a stranger. Where did the man I married go?” You responded, sadness lacing your voice.

You both fell silent, standing in the hallway. You moved to walk around him back to your bed chambers. “I need some time alone, please.” You said. “Y/N, wait-” Anthony started. “No, Anthony. Just let me be.” You interrupted, this time not returning his gaze.

Anthony watched you walk away and close the door behind you. He cursed himself as he walked to his study. He hadn’t realized just how badly he was hurting you. His pride and ego prevented him from seeing it. He was raised better than how he was behaving and he was hurting his wife.

He wanted to fix it, he needed to fix it. But you had made abundantly clear that you needed space. But how much space?

XX

The next morning, you and Anthony didn’t speak a word to each other at breakfast. Anthony was urging to hear your voice but you were steadfast in remaining silent. He watched as you finished your breakfast and moved to stand from your seat.

A look of discomfort crossed your features as you stood. You grabbed your stomach as you continued to stand fully.

“Are you alright?” Anthony asked. Your lady’s maid came to your side to help you stand fully. “Thank you, Gloria.” You said to her kindly. You took your leave to the garden, Anthony watching you as you left.

“Gloria, keep a watchful eye on her.” He instructed the maid. “Yes, my lord.” Gloria responded, walking after you.

Later that afternoon, as you were in the sitting room, you felt that sharp pain in your stomach again. You moved quickly and placed your hand on your stomach again. But as the pain increased, you winced and soon your winces became groans of pain.

“My lady, what is the matter?” Gloria asked you. “I do not know. I-I have some pain in my stomach.” You answered. Gloria instructed the other maid to go fetch the Viscount as she stayed by your side.

“I don’t want to worry him.” You spoke. “But what if something is wrong?” Gloria questioned. You were about to reply when the pain increased and felt like a dagger to your stomach.

You let out an even louder groan of pain as Anthony rushed into the room. “Y/N, darling, what’s wrong?” He asked, kneeling in front of you. “The pain started this morning and now it won’t stop.” You explained. “I-Is the baby coming?” He questioned. “No, this is different. Anthony, what if something’s wrong?” You replied.

Anthony looked at you for a moment, seeing your fear and your pain. “Call the doctor. Tell him it’s an emergency.” Anthony instructed his butler. “I-I don’t know what this could mean. What if I lose the baby?” You panicked.

“Y/N, look at me,” Anthony started. He grabbed her hands and you looked at him with watery eyes. “Our baby is going to be okay. You are going to be okay. I know I wasn’t here before but I am here now and I love you.” Your husband told you. “I love you too.” You replied.

When the doctor arrived, you were escorted to your chambers so you could be more comfortable while he was examining you. The doctor was quiet as he examined you, not saying much. That bothered Anthony. Why wasn’t he saying anything? Nothing to comfort you or reassure you that your baby was okay.

“The baby is alright, Lady Bridgerton. You experienced a rather normal part of pregnancy; contractions that don’t lead to labor. They are quite alarming, especially given that this is your first child, but the baby is okay.” He explained. “So she’s okay?” Anthony asked. “Yes. Both mother and child are healthy.” The doctor answered.

You let out a subtle sigh of relief as you rested your head against the bed frame. At the door, the butler escorted the doctor out and Anthony turned to look at you.The adrenaline from the fear he felt had finally worn off and now he was just terrified.

Anthony moved to sit next to you on the edge of the bed and took your hand in his. “I have been an awful husband.” He spoke. “Anthony,” You sighed.

“I have heard the risks of childbirth. Women die while birthing a child and I do not think I’ve ever been more terrified than I was at this moment. I thought I would lose you and our child. I caught a glimpse into what my mother felt when she lost my father and I never want to feel that. I’ve been wasting precious time with you just because I was scared.” Anthony continued.

You finally understood why he had distanced himself since you fell pregnant. He was afraid he was going to lose you during childbirth. You wished he would have come to you with his fears rather than pushing you away when you needed him most.

“Anthony, I do not plan on going anywhere. I wish you would have just told me what you were feeling. It’s alright to be vulnerable, especially with me. It doesn’t make you less of a man.” You finally said.

“I know that now. And I am so sorry for neglecting you the way I did. You needed me and I wasn’t there.” Anthony said. “I forgive you.” You told him.

Anthony looked at you with disbelief, fully convinced you wouldn’t forgive him for his behavior.

“I love you, Anthony. We have to forgive the ones we love for their mistakes. Besides, if the stress of being mad at you is what caused my condition, I’d rather not go through it again.” You teased.

Anthony gave you a tearful laugh before kissing you deeply.

Two months later, you welcome a healthy baby boy into the world. And he has his father wrapped around his finger.

[lee-laurent]

June Bug - Trevor Zegras

Summary: June keeps a big secret. Trevor wonders why June Hughes stopped talking to him.

content: pregnancy, mentions of unsafe sex, angst, casual relationships, arguing, premature birth, fluff

wc: 3.5k

notes: cliche ahhhhh plot, but i've had this written for like a year. finally finished it and decided why not add it to the blog

"Are you doing okay, dear?" Ellen asked, watching as her daughter struggled to isit up on the lounge chair.

"Yes, Mama. Just trying to get comfortable," June sighed, setting her book down on her baby bump.

"Well, the boys should be home soon with your snacks. Just call me for dad if you need anything."

"Thanks, Mama," Jane gaver her mom a tight-lipped grin. She knew her parents were still a bit disappointed in her for falling pregnant at 22, but they were there for her nonetheless. She was hoping once the baby came, their relationship would start to go back to the way it was.

"JUNE BUG! We've got your pickles!" Luke shouted, sliding open the door to the patio. June groaned, pushing herself up on her elbows. She smiled up at her younger brother, tilting her head towards the table next to her. Luke laughed, placing the jar of pickles down for her.

"How's baby Hughes treating you?"

"He likes to kick me in the ribs and make me have to pee every fifteen minutes."

"Sounds like a blast. Just so ya know, Jack actually told me and Q that's proud of you."

"That's nice of him. But I'd appreciate it if he said it to my face. Oh, and didn't pretend that I'm not 7 months pregnant."

"You've still got me and Quinnifer. And Mom and Dad. Mom's been shopping for baby clothes. She's excited to have you at home again."

"She wouldn't have to live at home if she'd just tell the baby daddy," Quinn commented, joining his siblings in the backyard.

"Quinn-"

"It's fine, Lukey. He's just telling the truth. But I can't ruin his career like that. He's got a lot going for him right now. Plus, Mom siad I don't have to do anything that I don't want to."

"I know, Mom. But it's her fault that I can't even invite him here. He's gonna think we hate him or something," Jack loudly complained to his mom.

"Jack, just tell him that it's a family only vacation. It's going to be his way until June figures out what she wants. We shouldn't stress her out right now. It's not good for her or the baby."

"But Mom," Jack whined.

"Jack Rowden Hughes. That's enough. Go spend time with your siblings."

Jack shook his head, stomping up to his room. He slammed the door and called back his best friend.

"Mom says it's a family only vacation."

"Why? It's not like she's losing June this year. Isn't she moving back in with your parents?"

"Yeah, it's hard to explain. I'll see you when Cole and I come to visit."

"Okay, I'll talk to you later. Bye, man."

"Bye, Z."

"Please stop kicking Mama. She's trying to relax," June muttered to her stomach, rubbing a hand over where her baby decided to continuously kick her. The baby didn't listen, kicking even harder. "You're just like your dad, huh? You never listen."

June's pregnancy so far had gone fairly smoothly. But as soon as she hit the seven month mark, the baby decided that she needed to be sitting down or sleeping at all times. If she wasn't sitting, she was puking or feeling lightheaded. She had had to convince Ellen to let her come to the lake house. She wasn't allowed on the boat and spent most of her time lounging on the back patio with a book. She felt bad as Jim and Ellen had forbidden the boys from bringing any friends over this year, since June hadn't announched her pregnancy to anyone except her family and her best friend. She still hadn't told anyone the story of how she ended up pregnant, but her family was aware of who the father was. Her oldest and youngest brother were supportive, albeit a bit angry with the dad. Her twin, however, was pissed with her and not the dad.

"June, dear! Oh my goodness, are you okay?" Ellen exclaimed, listening as her daughter threw up for the tenth time that morning.

"Mama, I messed up."

"Junie, what's wrong? You know you can tell me anything."

"I-I'm pregnant."

Ellen was silent for a few seconds, before she noticed her daughter was sobbing. She quickly wrapped her into a tight hug, rocking her back and forth.

"Oh, June. It's going to be okay. Do you want to tell me what happened?"

June shook her head, burying her face in her mom's neck.

"Does the dad know?"

June shook her head again.

"Is it someone at your school? I'm sure if he's in California, we can still get ahold of him."

"It's Trevor, Mom."

"Trevor? As in Trevor Zegras?"

"Yes," June squeaked out before she started sobbings again.

"It's going to be okay, love. Everything will be fine."

June stood in front of her three brothers. Jim and Ellen had wrangled them into the living room, promising to be there for June in case anything went wrong.

"What's going on, June Bug?" Quinn asked, flashing her a small smile.

"June has some exciting news."

"You're moving to Jersey?!" Luke exclaimed.

"No, Luke. I- um, I'm pregnant."

"You're what?!"

"June!"

Jack remained silent.

"Who did this to you? Huh? I'll beat the shit out of him," Quinn threatened.

"You'll be doing no such thing. He- he doesn't know. And I'll be keeping it that way."

"Who? Who's the dad?" Jack finally spoke up.

"Um..." June turned to her parents for reassurance. Ellen gave her a nod. "It's Trevor."

"Zegras?! You slept with Zegras?!" Jack shouted. "There's no fucking way! I told you to stay away from my friends, June! But you didn't listen, did you? And now look where you've got yourself. God, you're such a dumb slut, June."

June placed a hand over her mouth, tears threatening to spill.

"Jack! Do not speak to your sister like that!" Jim's voice boomed, pulling the attention off June and onto their very angry father. "We are going to support June in her decisions. If June wants to keep this a secret, then we will all be keeping it a secret. Is that a understood?"

"Yes, Dad," Quinn and Luke mumbled. Jack, however, shook his head and disappeared to his room.

Jack's solution to this problem was just pretending that it never happened. He acted as if June wasn't pregnant, because to him that was the easiest thing to do. Although he wouldn't lie and say that he wasn't beyond pissed when he found that June was moving back in with their parents in Michigan instead of going back to California to even attempt to get support from Trevor. Keep the secret from his best friend was killing him, but he knew that his parents would actually kill him if he did let it slip. Because everything revolved around June now.

Trevor was blissfully unaware of everything happening in the Hughes' family world. Sure, he was confused as to why he couldn't come to the lake house. And he was confused why he hadn't heard from June in months, especially because he thought that maybe they liked each other. They spent almost every day together while she was at school in California, but one day she went home to see her parents and she didn't come back. He'd reached out a few times, but received radio silence and gave up. And when Jack told him she wouldn't be returning to school after the summer break, he was left alone with no idea what happened to the girl he liked.

"Can I buy him a Devils jersey?" Luke smiled, placing a hand on his sister's stomach.

"No, he'll be a Canucks supporter," Quinn retorted,

"He'll be staying far away from hockey, thank you very much," June sneered, moving her brother's hand to where her son continued to kick.

"Damn, Baby Hughes can kick!"

"Yeah? Imagine that while you're trying to sleep," June laughed.

"No wonder you're always so grouchy," Quinn joked.

"Now, if you two are done bothering me, Baby Hughes wants pickles."

"This is like your third jar of pickles since we got here."

"Shh. The baby gets what baby wants."

"That's actually so gross," Luke cringed as June ate half a pickle spear in one bite.

"Mmm. It's so good. You just don't get it, Lukey."

"Nasty," Luke walked back off into the house.

"Quinn! Come play pool!" Jack shouted from inside.

"Call me if you need anything, Junie. Hope your pickles are as good as you imagined."

"Thanks, Quinn. Love you," June smiled.

"Love you too, June Bug."

June lay in bed, scrolling through her social media. All her friends were on vacation, drinking cocktails, and taking hot bikini pics. She was in bed, drinking water, wearing her brothers' clothes because they were the only non-maternity clothes she had that still fit. She was just about to turn off her phone and attempt to sleep, when a notification popped up on her screen.

Hey, June. Jack said you're for sure staying in Michigan with your parents this year. I was wondering if you wanted to come visit when Jack came. You know, see you one last time.

Fuck. Trevor had stopped reaching out months ago. Why did he decide to text her now? She was considering blocking his number, but morally that felt wrong. She was already hiding his son from him, blocking him just felt even worse. Even just thinking about what she was keeping from him made her feel sick. Even if it was her body, it was his kid too. It takes two to tango. Suddenly she felt bile climb up her throat, juimping from the bed, running down the hall to the bathroom she shared with her brothers.

She held her hair back with one hand, her other clutching the toilet bowl. She couldn't tell if it was the baby not liking her dinner or her guilt of not telling Trevor, but everything felt wrong in that moment. She began to cry, not just from the vomiting but the stress that receiving that text had on her.

"Fuck. Are you okay, June?" Quinn asked, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. June didn't answer, just sobbing harder. "Junie. Shh. Is Baby Hughes doing alright?"

June nodded.

"Then what's going on, June? Was it dinner? I noticed dinners havent been sitting well with you."

"It- It's Trevor."

"What about Trevor? What did he do? I'll kick his ass."

"He didn't do anything, Quinn. It's me. Why didn't I tell him? What's he going to think when he sees me with a baby in a couple months? I have to tell him. Do you think he's still awake? I should call him."

"Woah, June. Calm down. You're not thinking rationally right now."

"No, Quinn. I need to tell him."

"June-"

"You're not listening!"

"Shh. You're gonna wake up Mom and Dad."

"I-"

"June, baby, what's wrong?" Ellen asked from the doorway.

"She wants to call Trevor and tell him," Quinn replied.

"Oh, Junie. If you're sure that's what you want, go give him a call. Should I tell Jack?"

June shook her head, "Only after I talk to Trevor."

June sat with her phone propped on her desk in front of her. She sat so that her bump was hidden from the camera.

One. Two... Three. She clicked the FaceTime button. It only rang three times before Trevor's face took up her screen.

"Holy shit. Hey, June. Long time no see," he smiled.

"We need to talk."

"Woah. Okay? What's going on, Bug?"

"I- um, you remember last time we hung out?"

"Yeah, of course I do. Jamie was out, we had the place to ourselves. I-"

"I'm pregnant."

"Wh-what? Is this a joke?"

"No. Look," she stood up, fitting her swollen stomach into frame.

"There's- I... How?"

"We didn't use protection? I don't know. That's usually how that happens."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"I was going to, I-"

"That was seven months ago! You're seven months pregnant? And you didn't think to tell me? Jack didn't think to tell me?!"

"Don't," June gulped, "Don't blame, Jack. I- I kept him from saying anything

"I'm getting the next flight out."

"What?! No! No! Don't do that! Trevor!"

"June, don't you dare tell me what to do! I... We need to talk in person. Figure this out."

"Trevor," she sobbed, shaking her head.

"Too late June. I'll see you in the morning."

"Trev-" he hung up. "FUCK!"

June sat the island in the kitchen, her leg bouncing violently. Trevor was supposed to arrive any minute and she just wanted the world to open up and swallow her whole.

"Stress isn't good for you or the baby," Ellen sighed, making her daughter a smoothie.

"Luke, can you get me more pickles?"

Luke grabbed the half empty jar from the fridge, sliding it across the counter to his sister. Without taking her eyes off the door, she bit into one. Praying that Trevor had changed his mind. Praying that he wasn't about to walk through that door. Praying that-

Knock. Knock! KNOCK!!

Jack opened the door and a very disheveled looking Trevor walked in immediately. His eyes met June's and she started to cry, dropping her pickle back into the jar. He wasn't even sure what to say. What do you say to the mother of your child when you didn't even know she was pregnant until a few hours before?

"Trev," her voice wavered, tears falling down her cheeks.

"It's okay, Junie. Shh, you're okay," Quinn whispered, rubbing her back.

Trevor just scoffed, dropping his duffle bag on the floor. He made his way into the kitchen, standing across from June. He had fury in his eyes and it made her shake even more.

"How could you keep this from me, June?!"

"I... I didn't want to ruin your career, Trevor. I didn't want us to be a burden. Something else for you to worry about," she sobbed.

"I deserved to know! It's my baby too! I-" he pulled at the roots of his hair, "I can't fucking believe you. You've done some stupid shit, June. But this... this takes the fucking cake. How... how far along are you?"

"30 weeks. I-"

"30 weeks. You've kept my child a secret from me for 30 weeks?"

"I- I didn't know until I was a month and a half. I was going to tell you and then..."

"Then what? You decided you wanted to be my saviour? I didn't fuck need that! I needed the girl that I fell in love with to-"

"You love me?"

"That's not the point, June! Oh my fucking God!"

"Let's all calm down, please," Quinn sighed.

"I-" June was cut off by a sharp inhale. She gripped her stomach and the room fell silent.

"What's wrong, Bug?" Luke asked worriedly.

"It hurts! Mama, it hurts so much," she wailed. Another sharp pain and she felt liquid trickle down her leg.

"Shit! Look what you fucking caused, Trevor!" Quinn snapped, helping his sister off the stool she was sat on.

"My hospital bag isn't here," she sobbed, "It's too early! He can't come yet!"

"We have time to get your bag, love. If your water just broke they'll just send you home. You won't be dilated enough for them to do anything," Ellen tried her best to mediate the situation.

"It's too early! He isn't supposed to come yet! He can't! I'm not ready!"

"June, you need to calm down. Let's get you on the couch," Jim offered.

Trevor was in shock. He had just found out he was going to be a father and now the baby was coming. He had caused so much stress that his son was being born a month and a half early. God, he wasn't ready to be a father. But June needed him right now, so he'd have to man up.

"I need new pants," June cried, allowing her brothers to move her to the sofa.

"Luke, go get your sister some sweatpants."

"On it."

"Trevor sit with June. And don't argue anymore, we don't need this baby coming out in the house."

"Okay."

Trevor cautiously sat on the cushion that June wasn't laying on. He placed her feet on his lap, rubbing gingerly at her shins. She narrowed her eyes at him, but stopped when the pain started again. His eyes widened and he gave her a hand to hold while her body tensed.

"Are you sure it's too early to go to the hospital, Ellen?" Trevor asked.

"They'll just send her home, Trevor. They aren't going to waste a bed on someone that'll be there for at least 24 hours."

"24 hours?!" June gasped, "I can't do this for 24 hours!"

"At least 24 hours," Jack pointed out, getting a stern look from his parents.

"Let's try walking around, Junie. That'll help speed up the process... according to Google," Trevor offered. Luke and Quinn had left to drive home and get the hospital bag. Jim and Ellen were trying to give the couple some space. And Jack, well... Jack was sitting on a chair facing the couch, judging every little move Trevor and his sister made.

"But it hurts."

"I know, June. But if we want our baby to come then we should try moving around."

"I heard sex helps," June offered.

"Hell no!" Jack spoke up, narrowing his eyes at Trevor.

"Let's just try walking," Trevor offered sheepishly.

"Fine."

"We're back!"

"Finally! Can we go now, Mom?"

Ellen nodded, "Why don't you and Trev go? We'll meet you there once you've got a room?"

"Mom..."

"June. You two need to learn to work as a team. Go."

"Fine."

Trevor threw the bag over his shoulder, helping Quinn get the carseat installed correctly. June sat in the passenger seat, texting her best friend updates. She couldn't believe her son was coming already.

"Ready, June?"

"I've been ready," she rolled her eyes, tapping away at her phone.

"Right... let's go then."

The car ride was awkwardly silent except for a few moments where June would gasp from the pain. Once they'd settled into a room, Trevor decided to talk.

"I, uh, I'm sorry for freaking out, June. I just... I'm scared."

"I was scared at first too. I guess I forgot that you were just learning. And going through the same thought process I did. I just... I shouldn't have kept this from you."

"You shouldn't have, but I can forgive you. Especially once I've met our little guy," he smiled.

"Not sure he'll be so little. Nurses said I look like I'm 9 months," she giggled.

"Do you think they'll take him to the special room for babies?"

"The NICU?"

"Yeah, that."

"Depends on how he's looking. But they said he's measuring above average. Maybe him coming early is a blessing to my body."

"Maybe," Trevor laughed.

A nurse knocked at the door, "You ready to push, Mama?"

June nodded, gripping Trevor's hand a little tighter.

"Is he okay?" June asked worriedly, watching as the nurses and doctor placed him down.

"He's fine," Trevor reassured her.

"You've got a 5 pound baby at 30 weeks, Miss Hughes. Quite impressive," the doctor smiled. "He's looking healthy, but we'll just take him to run a few tests. Just to make sure everything is developed alright seeing as he's premature."

"Can I hold him?"

"Of course you can," the nurse grinned, placing the baby on June's chest.

"Trevor, look at him."

"I see him, Junie. I see him," he wiped his eyes, not wanting to cry in front of June.

"He's perfect."

"He is. Just like his mom."

June blushed, handing the baby to Trevor before the nurses took him to run some tests.

"Can we come in?" Quinn asked, knocking on the doorframe.

"Come in," Trevor smiled. He was sitting shirtless in a chair, the baby on his chest. June was fast asleep, light snores leaving her mouth.

"How's Junie doing?" Jack asked, shocking everyone.

"Good. She's good. She, uh, she needed a nap. So Beau and I are chillin."

"Beau?"

"Yeah. Hughes family meet Beau Quintin Zegras."

"Quintin?" Quinn felt his eyes water.

"Yeah. June insisted on it," Trevor chuckled.

"Can I hold him?" Jack was quick to ask, looking Beau in awe.

"Sure. Just wash your hands."

"Okay. Okay."

"Hey, Junie. How're you feeling?" Ellen asked, stroking her daughter's hair.

"Tired. But isn't Beau just the cutest? He got Trevor's blue eyes and I don't think I could possibly love him any more than I do."

"He's adorable, love. The perfect mix of the two of you. How'd the doctors say he's doing?"

"They said he looks like a full term baby," she giggled, "He's big and strong. And figured out how to eat pretty quickly."

Ellen laughed, "Glad to hear it. We're gonna head back to the house soon. I thought maybe you and Trev would head back to the actual house. He don't have a place for Beau to sleep here."

June nodded, letting her mom press a kiss to her forehead, "We're all proud of you, June. So so proud of you."

"Thanks, Mama."

"You ready?" Trevor asked, reaching out to hold June's hand.

"As ready as I'll ever be."

"Let's do this baby."

"Flight 335 to Anaheim is now boarding!"

[sotwk]

The Best Gift (Legolas x unnamed OC)

Summary: Legolas wishes a "dear friend" a Joyous Begetting Day--but anonymously.

Dedication: For my dearest @quickslvxrr, who has been such a constant and patient supporter. I'm so sorry it took forever to grant such a simple fic request from you. I hope this brings you some joy during rather difficult times. <3

Word count: 1.3k

Rating: General Audience

Content: Fluff, comedy, romance, shy young Legolas, secret pining, brotherly banter, OC Son of Thranduil (Prince Gelir) 

Warnings: None

To Read on AO3: LINK

The Best Gift

Third Age 556 June 26th

The Woodland Realm

“What in Araw’s name are you doing?”

Legolas gave a muffled cry and stumbled back a couple of steps, but caught his balance before he could crash into the shrubbery outside the small kitchen window. 

“Get down!” he hissed at his brother Gelir, grabbing the older ellon’s sleeve and yanking him down to the dirt beside him.

His heart racing like frightened deer’s, Legolas listened carefully for changes in the movement within her cottage, any sign that she might have overheard his dolt of a brother’s voice and sought to investigate. Mercifully, the melody of her sweet humming continued to float uninterrupted from the open window. 

“Oh, are you the only one permitted to wish our dear friend a Joyous Begetting?” Gelir smirked and punched him on the shoulder. “If I too had a gift I wished to present to her for the occasion, would you pound me?”

“No!” Legolas blurted out quickly; too quickly. “Wait--have you brought a gift for her?”

“I have not, because I had assumed your answer to that question would be yes. And as little as I fear your wee hits, honeg, I do not particularly enjoy being on the receiving end of them.” 

Gelir shoved the younger prince aside, leapt lightly to his feet, and crept over to peer above the windowsill. Legolas held his breath, despite knowing Gelir would never be seen or heard by any elf, man, or beast if he did not wish for them to. The worrisome issue was the great pleasure his brother seemed to derive from embarrassing him at every open opportunity--something one might assume a grown elf would grow weary of after two and half centuries, but it had yet to happen. 

Thankfully, after an agonizing few seconds, Gelir dropped back down to their hiding spot. “I see you opted for the purple night lilies.” He cocked an eyebrow at Legolas. "I seem to recall Ammë setting certain conditions on the use of the rarest blooms from her garden."

"You recall correctly," said Legolas tersely. All four of his elder brothers were frustratingly knowledgeable of the details of his personal business--a result of the powerful bonds that linked them. But Gelir was easily bored, and the only one to actually stick his nose in for active meddling. "She did not set a time by which I am required to make myself known."

"And is Ammë also aware you have spent--on my guess--at least the last two hours sitting outside this unwitting maid’s window hoping that she would come to some sort of epiphany?”

Legolas thought about the smile that lit up her face so beautifully his entire chest ached, and the way it had stayed on her face the entire time he waited there, content to just observe the joy he had caused. 

“I believe she knows. Or is close to discerning it.” 

“You are right. She must realize eventually that a plant so rare and valuable could only come from a high lord or prince.” Gelir snapped his fingers. “Perhaps I should walk in there and take the credit and her fair heart to boot!”

Legolas jerked his head suddenly. “You wouldn’t!”

“You are right. I would not; that would be wrong.” Gelir leaned in closer, his expression suddenly stern. “But it is just as egregious to carry on as long as you have, making veiled overtures to this lady rather than mustering the courage to speak the truth of your feelings plainly to her face.”

“The pursuit of someone’s affections must be like hunting. When you hunt an animal, you go with the focused intent of finishing the job as quickly as possible. You do not toy with the creature to scare or confuse it and cause it needless pain.” 

Gelir clamped a hand on his younger brother’s shoulder. “I may not know what it is like to lose my heart in this manner, little brother. But I know it is unfitting that I show greater respect to animals I stalk than you do to someone you profess to love.” 

The sudden outpouring of wisdom from his wise-cracking brother rendered Legolas speechless.  But something on his face must have quelled Gelir’s baser instincts to tease and mock him. 

“Explain your struggle. Where does all your hesitation lie?”

“I…she…” His brother seemed so genuine this time in his desire to help, that the words broke through Legolas’s reluctance to expose his vulnerabilities. “What if she does not feel the same way I do? What if she will not have me?”

“She does and she will.”

“How do you know for certain?”

“Because I have two eyes and I use them,” Gelir said flatly, his patience already worn thin. “Unlike the both of you, evidently, who cannot gaze directly at each other's faces long enough to notice how nauseatingly smitten you are with one another.”

Legolas’s hands curled into tight fists. Against his better instincts, he wanted to believe it. What maiden could refuse a son of the Elvenking if he offered her his heart?

Well, she could, in all likelihood. For what was his title against true beauty and grace such as hers? Why should he be her first choice when she could have anyone in the entirety of Eryn Galen?

“Bah! Enough of this tragic nonsense.” Gelir’s hand around his arm easily tugged the dazed Legolas to his feet.  “I will not let you waste any more time squatting here like a toad. And even toads have the sense to croak and announce their intentions.”

Gelir hooked his arm around his brother’s hunched shoulders and gave him a firm shake. “Perhaps a few bottles from Ada’s cellars might rally those nerves, eh? Come. With any luck,  you can make another go of it before the day’s end.”

As they trudged around the hedges to start the trek back up to the King’s palace, Legolas wrestled with the sense of failure at his retreat. Why could he not be more like his brothers, if not like their father? Afraid of nothing, brimming with confidence to speak their mind to anybody. What was stopping him?

Nobody. Nobody but himself. 

Legolas froze in place so suddenly that Gelir nearly lost his balance. “What--?”

The younger prince turned to squarely face the pathwalk leading back to the cottage, glaring at the bright green door with the intensity of one about to leap across an impossible distance over a deadly chasm. 

“Yessss. Go on!” He distantly heard Gelir hoot as he began his determined stride up the path. 

But then he heard something else. Footsteps. A doorknob turning. 

The color drained from Legolas’s face and his legs turned to lead. He twisted about to scurry away and out of sight, but a pair of powerful hands suddenly seized the back of his tunic, lifting him so that his boot soles left the ground. 

A hard, rough toss pitched the helpless elf to the cottage just as the door swung open. He flailed his arms out to regain his balance and avoid face-planting on the stoop, but not quickly enough to avoid bumping against the maiden that had stepped out of her home. 

“H-Hello.” He gulped down the panic that rose up his chest, as the nearness of her, such as he had never experienced before, enfolded him. Her scent, her warmth, her…touch? Legolas realized that she had raised her hands and planted them firmly against his chest, likely to help break his ungraceful fall. 

“I… uh, I came to wish you… that is…I-I just wanted to say…” Valar, did Gelir’s shove knock his tongue loose from his mouth?!  

“I wished so badly for it to be you!" she suddenly blurted out, and stuck forward her chin in her willful defiance of protocol.

“R-really?” Unexpected joy and relief burst out of Legolas’s chest like a flock of sparrows exploding from a bush.

The sweetest blush rosied her cheeks, but she still had not moved her hands from the front of his tunic, he noticed. “The flowers are the most beautiful present I have ever received, but knowing that what I had hoped for is true, that they came from you… that is really the best gift.”

“I do not believe there is anyone gladder about your begetting than I,” the elf prince avowed.

And as her whole face lit up brighter than Gil-Estel, as she slid her arm through his and guided him into the cottage, Legolas felt the nudge of a distinct sound inside his head: the chuckle of an older brother whom he had just given yet another anecdote to refer to the next time he wanted to crow over being “always right”. 

Elves HC Tag List: @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @achromaticerebus @aduialel @asianbutnotjapanese @auttumnsayshi @blueberryrock @conversacomsmaug @elan-ho-detto-elan-15 @entishramblings @fizzyxcustard @freshalmondpandadonut @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @glassgulls @heilith @heranintomyknife23times @ladyweaslette @laneynoir @lathalea @lemonivall @LiliDurin @quickslvxrr @ratsys @scyllas-revenge @stormchaser819 @talkdifferently6 @tamryniel @tamurilofrivendell

For more SotWK Fanfiction: Fanfiction Masterlist

Other useful links:

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[thisapplepielife]

Written for the @corrodedcoffinfest June warm-up round.

Eddie Munson's Corroded Coffin Celebrity Full Metal Upside Down Memorial Awareness Pro-Am Fun Run 5K Race For Hunger

Prompt: Band on the Run | Word Count: 1000 | Rating: T | CW: Language | POV: Eddie | Pairing: Steddie | Tags: Future Fic, Middle Aged Famous Corroded Coffin, Established Relationship Steddie, Steve's Made Eddie Watch Too Much of The Office, Eddie Munson's a Runner, But Not Like This

"How did we get roped into this again? Who do I need to kill?" Goodie asks, lifting his leg into the air by the leg of his shorts, until Jeff catches his heel, resting it on his thigh as he ties Goodie's running shoe for him. 

"It's for charity," Jeff answers, cinching the laces, tying them.

Eddie's lacing up his own shoes, and he definitely shouldn't have bought new ones for this. Rookie mistake. He'd be better off with his vintage Reebok's that he wore into the ground.

He stands up and looks at himself in the mirror. He looks ridiculous. He doesn't know the last time his legs have seen sunshine, and they look like little chicken legs, under his baggy, black shorts.

This was a mistake.

Gareth is stretching, a foot up on the arm of the hotel couch, and Steve is all but laying over his back, pressing against him. 

"Um, do we need to let you two get a room?" Eddie asks.

Steve chuckles, and Eddie loves the sound. 

"You just want me to do this to you instead," Steve snarks.

"Well, yeah. Fucking, duh. Always, forever," Eddie answers.

"No, we don't have time for that," Jeff answers, looking at his watch, "it's twenty-three minutes until we have to be at the starting line."

"This is my worst nightmare," Goodie bemoans, "It's high school PE all over again."

And Eddie grins at him, because he feels exactly the same way. Goodie's hit it right on the goddamn nose. 

"Agreed," Eddie says, "and look, Steve Harrington is even here, bullying us freaks."

"I didn't bully you. You were the bully," Steve banters back, because they've had this disagreement a thousand times. 

"Agree to disagree," Eddie says, playing his part. Then he looks at Steve's back, still plastered to Gareth in a way that Eddie would definitely be jealous about if he were doing it to anybody else. "How much money is this raising, again?" Eddie asks, because that's the only thing that's gonna get him out of this room and onto the street. 

Steve straightens back up, "With what you've matched? Nearly fifty thousand dollars."

"That'll feed a lot of kids," Eddie says.

"It will. Your fans have really come through."

"They just want to see us in shorts," Eddie mutters.

"Well, that's at least ten thousand of it, yes," Steve says, and Eddie's pretty sure he's serious.

"Ugh, I'm gonna die," Eddie whines.

"You won't. It's a 5K, not a marathon. Over and done in under an hour, I promise, even if you walk the whole thing."

"I'm definitely walking the whole thing," Eddie insists. 

"And that's fine," Steve tells him, again. "But I'm not."

"And that's fine," Eddie mocks. 

"At least the route's along the ocean, so your casual stroll will have a view," Steve says, goading him.

He's still not running. He's walking.

Eddie doesn't walk. He's too competitive, and he should have realized that long ago. Goddamn Steve for getting him into this. 

So, when Steve, Jeff, Gareth and Goodie take off, Eddie matches them. So much for not conforming. He's embarrassed for himself right now.

Steve pulls away quickly, getting further and further ahead, and then Jeff and Gareth settle in beside each other, which leaves him and Goodie.

He thinks as soon as Steve totally disappears, Goodie will walk, and then he can walk, too.

Goodie doesn't walk. He's not fast, but he's in shape. They all are. Playing live shows like they do, even now in their forties, is more cardio than they even realize. So, they jog along together, and aren't even last.

"Are you dying?" Eddie asks, glancing over at Goodie.

"No," Goodie answers. 

"Me either," Eddie admits. 

Eddie was pretty sure he was gonna be last, and he's a little disappointed he isn't.

Steve is at the finish line, and doesn't even look like he's broken a sweat. Not a hair out of place, that asshole.

Eddie's drenched, and he feels like he just played a three-hour set in the sun. He and Goodie didn't finish fast, but they finished strong. And Eddie only stopped running to take a few pictures with fans along the route, as happy to get the breather as the fans were to get the picture, he thinks.

The volunteer hands the finisher's medal to Steve, letting him do the honors, and Eddie sees how hard Steve is smiling as he holds it up to put on Eddie. So, Eddie smiles back and leans his head forward to accept it, as cameras click all around. It's embarrassing, but he turns on the stage charm, bows and shows it off. Kisses Steve, lets them take pictures that all the tabloids will run with their own spin. Some good, some bad. 

Then, he poses with the rest of the band with the comically large check made out to the children's charity of their choice. 

It was worth it, he guesses.

"Rub my calves," Eddie demands, putting his legs in Steve's lap back in the hotel room, freshly showered, and already feeling more human again. 

Steve laughs, but he digs his fingers into the meat of Eddie's muscles, and they are a little sore. Goddamn new shoes.

"I'm proud of you, you know," Steve says.

"Yeah, yeah," Eddie answers, brushing him off.

"No, I am. I always am, but extra today. I know this isn't your thing, but you did a lot of good today. You all did."

"Yeah, well…"

"And got some great press," Steve adds, and now he's talking.

"Did I look good?" Eddie asks, preening, flipping his hair.

Steve grins, "So good."

And then Steve moves, lowering Eddie's legs back to the couch, settling on top of Eddie, covering Eddie's body with his own.

He presses his lips to Eddie's, then pulls back and looks in his eyes, "This mean you're gonna start going on my morning runs with me?"

And Eddie feels no remorse, as he laughs right in his husband's face.

If you want to write your own, or see more entries for this challenge, pop on over to @corrodedcoffinfest and follow along with the fun! 🦇

Notes: Obviously the title comes from the Michael Scott's Dunder Mifflin... race name from the Fun Run episode of The Office.

[pendarling]

In The Rain

Thx for 1k+! This is a lot longer than anything I've ever written. This piece is specifically dedicated to June's Men's Mental Health Awareness Month

It had been a long day after work.

Hero didn't like that just being a hero didn't fulfill the requirements for getting paid enough to do their bills. It was annoying, yes, but after a hard day at work and finally finishing their taxes, Hero decided to reward themselves with something to eat.

Although it was raining outside, the curry stand in the neighbourhood was one of the best. They've been craving it all week.

Hero sat at the end of the table on a stool. A small shabby canopy spread above them, hiding them from the pelting bolts of the rain. 

"Thank you." Hero took the plate of rice and lamb curry, their favourite. The teen behind the stand smiled at them and left to continue working on their homework at the back.

With cold hands, Hero picked up the spoon and immediately savoured the taste of the curry. It was an intoxicating flavour they couldn't get out of their head. 

Within minutes they found themselves enjoying their time.

"Alone, Hero?" A cool whisper came from behind them. Hero froze in their spot, recognizing the voice instantly.

"Villain…" they whispered back.

Villain sat on the stool next to them, eyeing their face and enjoying their reaction.

"I'm impressed you know who I am. I thought I'd have to identify myself to you." They gave a crooked smirk; their clothes were covered in drops of water. 

They weren't sure how the other found them. Though they always knew they were strategic when they made their moves. It shouldn't have surprised them the way it did when Hero locked eyes with their worse nemesis in the most unexpected of places. Yet, it did.

Villain tapped their knuckles onto the table. "Hey, let me have whatever they're having." Villain gestured in their direction. An older gentleman behind the counter glanced over and gave a curt nod.

Hero swallowed timidly. They weren't sure what Villain planned to do with them. Honestly, it should be evident that they were at risk as soon as they decided to become a hero. Hero regretted not bringing a weapon. It seemed after weeks of hard labour, they didn't consider themselves more than their weighing bills.

They hesitantly looked at Villain. 

And they stared back.

Their eyes shot down to their plate. Their appetite slowly disappeared for fear of getting attacked. 

"So, where have you been, Hero?" They heard the stool beside them creak and sensed them lean in.

Hero considered playing dumb and pretend they had mistaken them for someone else, but quickly shut that idea down when they realized they already said Villain's name earlier. 

"Look, I don't want to fight here." They shakingly whispered, "If you want to take this somewhere else, that's fine. Just not here."

Villain chuckled, the sound of thunder seemingly echoing the laughter. For some reason, at that moment, Hero felt more fear for Villain than any storm.

Large waves of hot smoke seeped out from the food stand. It clashed with the frigid air, and usually, it was a lovely atmosphere, but today they feared associating a time like this with their encounter with Villain. 

A plate set in front of Villain, they averted their attention to the server. "Oh, and uh… I'll take their bill too." Villain gave Hero a quick pat on the shoulder and slid the server a bill.

"I don't owe you anything." Hero spoke.

They shrugged, unconcerned, "I didn't do that because I want a favour. I only did that to show you I mean no harm, really."

Hero doubted it. Villain picked up the spoon and dipped it into the curry hesitantly. "What is this stuff anyway?" They smelled it lightly. Hero felt amused at their findings, and the look of confusion from Villain had reminded them that even their worse enemy was still a human in some aspects.

Hero pushed their rice to one side. Villain curiously peeked over at them as they began scooping the rice and curry into a piece of naan bread. Hero picked it up with their hand and ate it calmly, still trying to devise a plan to evade Villain.

"What are you doing?" Villain asked.

Hero let the taste simmer in their mouth for a moment before replying. "Eating. What do you want me to do?"

"With your hands?"

"You don't have to use your hands."

Villain looked down at their plate and lifted the flatbread. They tore a piece from the corner and bit into it. 

Hero signalled their eyes down at the curry and back up again. Villain picked up their spoon and ate the curry. They took a few seconds to evaluate what they were eating.

"Well?" Hero waited.

"It's not bad."

They sat together, eating until the rain lightened up. By the time they were finished, Hero could still smell the spices on their fingers no matter how often they wiped it off. 

Villain turned to them. "Alright, let's go" They stood up, and Hero saw them pat at their pocket. It was likely some weapon they kept on themselves. They didn't take Villain as someone who'd hurt them, but the eerie deliverance of their words was unsettling enough to get them to follow Villain. 

They strolled toward a dark, sleet car parked beside the busy road up ahead. The clouds were just about dispersing, and as far as Hero could tell, it was late into the evening. 

Villain opened the passenger side door, an arm blocking them from behind. Probably to prevent them from running away, although they didn't have the energy to do all that after eating so much. They tilted their head, and Hero took that as a command to get inside.

From the passenger side compartment, Villain removed a pair of handcuffs.

"Are you serious?" Hero wondered what they had gotten themselves into.

"Sorry," they opened the cuffs, "hold out your hand for me." 

They scoffed but did so accordingly. They lifted their right hand. The cuffs locked their wrist loosely with a small click, and the other side clipped onto the side of the chair. "This is ridiculous."

Villain shut the door and walked to the other side. They slammed their side shut and turned the engine on. "No seatbelt?"

They looked over at them. Hero shook their wrist with the cuff.

"Right." They sheepishly laughed and moved across them to fix their belt. Hero sunk in deeper into their seat to avoid contact. Their face lit up brightly at the proximity. 

Cinnamon.

Villain smelled of cinnamon. Despite sitting at a curry shop for an hour and a half with them, despite the overwhelming spices and despite the sweet rain surrounding them, Villain smelt like cinnamon. Hero's hands stilled when they felt them slightly brush against their own. 

"Is that alright?" 

"Uh…"

Hero struggled for words. They had never noticed Villain looked so different without their mask. After all, they'd never been this close. Hero never felt the need to get personal with Villain. Their features threw them off, and for a second, they felt embarrassed for acting as they did at the stand. They instantly regretted all their snappy comebacks and swallowed.

Why were they still so close? Didn't they know they didn't want them to hear how hard their heart was pounding? Had Villain always looked this good, or were they just confused?

They nodded frantically.

…

It might've been the time or the food, but whatever it was made them sleepy. It had to be late into the night, but Villain kept driving, on and on and on… Through endless stretches of road.

"Where are you taking me?" They finally said.

"You'll see when we get there."

That wasn't much of an answer. They sighed deeply and stared at the dark sky with beads of colourful lights around the city and car headlights.

"Anyway," Villain tapped on the steering wheel, "where have you been? Haven't seen you out fighting crime, never mind the newspaper."

Was this what it was about?

"It's nothing."

"Yeah, right, like you can get me to believe it's nothing."

Hero looked down at their knees. They didn't know. They didn't have an answer.

Yes, they've been working, but they lost the thrill of being a hero a long time ago, and part of them convinced themselves they were never interested in returning. 

There did exist a time when they had fun doing the protecting, but that excitement… died.

That, of course, wouldn't be an acceptable answer for Villain.

"What did you do? Stay at home? Or…" they continued. 

They did stay at home. It was less mentally straining than whatever the public was getting them to do.

"How about… you tell me where we're headed, and I tell you where I've been."

That seemed fair. The only problem was they still hadn't found an excuse elaborate enough to hide their days of mind-numbing boredom and emptiness.

Villain came to a red light and faced them, "Okay. I'm… don't get scared, but I'm taking you to see my boss."

"Supervillain?"

They licked their teeth and glanced at the red light. The windshield wiped away at the small speckles of rain, blurring the window further. "Yes."

"… bullshit."

Villain's fingers tapped rhythmically on the wheel. "I don't know what else to tell you." The light turned green, and they continued driving.

"Do you think I'm some kind of idiot? Tell me where the hell you're taking me."

"I'm telling you the truth." Their eyes never left the street.

"Like a criminal would do that." They mumbled. The other gave them a look that shut them up. Hero leaned to the window and looked outside, their sleepiness returning.

They didn't like being trapped inside this car. They hated how the road looked so depressing and lonely.

This was just fantastic. 

Exactly what they needed. Getting kidnapped and possibly killed for some stupid villainous act. Hero's leg anxiously jumped up and down, waiting for this mysterious location.

…

The moment their eyes opened again, they caught sight of a dim blue sky. It was still raining.

Hero rubbed their eyes.

Curry. It still smelled of curry; Hero felt homesick already. They didn't feel like going home, though, as there was nothing for them there, but it still gave them the anxiety to be out this long. 

The jacket over their body slid off. 

They didn't remember this. It didn't belong to them. Was this Villain's? Hero lifted it off their body and stared at the soft knitted edges and long sleeves. They didn't expect them to be considerate. They had thought they would only use them for intel later on when they got to meet their boss, but being cared for? 

It made them blush. They pressed the jacket up to their nose and took a whiff of it shamelessly. 

Cinnamon.

Their head became light. 

Kidnapping wasn't supposed to be this much fun, but it was. Hero smiled warmly, their heart singing with excitement. Had they always been this nice? Was this something Villain did for everyone?

They slowly set down the jacket onto their lap. Yeah, it might've just been a moment of consideration; it was best not to look into it too deeply. Not a lot of people would consider Hero popular or a favourite among the crowd of other heroes. It was probably a thoughtless action that wasn't meant to feed into their fantasy.

Stupid.

The seat next to them was empty; Villain was no where to be found. Although the car sat running and kept them warm. The light rain from earlier still drizzled against the windows. Hero caught the sound of an argument.

Their eyes squinted as they looked around. Eventually, they saw Villain and a group of others through the rearview mirror. They stood in front of the well-lit gas station. Hero could hardly tell what they were saying through the rain, but only about a minute later did Villain turn around.

Should they fake sleep? Were they supposed to be up?

In their panic, Hero froze. Villain opened the car door and clamoured in. "Oh? Good morning." They whispered. 

Hero thumbed the jacket. Their eyes were sorrowful for treating Villain negatively all the time when all they received were pardons. Hopefully, they would see the end of their bad behaviour; karma would hurt.

Perhaps this was just a decisive plan to guilt-trip them into following Villain obediently. 

"You can hold on to my jacket, for now I won't need it." 

Villain pulled out of the lot and back onto the road again. 

It would be another long silence until they pulled up to a large building with a sign next to a line of other stores. Hero, confusingly, stared out at the place. It didn't look anything like a villain's lair.

"I don't think you answered my question," Villain turned the engine off. 

"You're persistent." 

"You're observant." 

Hero held their ground and remained silent. Villain clicked their tongue when they realized Hero wouldn't give in yet. "I heard you quit."

It shouldn't have hurt when they heard that, but it did. 

Hero loved their job. They never meant to leave the way they did, but it hurt to hear that speculation of them quitting had reached Villain. 

Hero held onto tears. The last place they wanted to cry was in Villain's car out in God knows where.

"You know, I was hoping you would just talk with me. I didn't mean to kidnap you but uhh… I really didn't have any options." 

The rain sounded outside a bright ray of light flickered across the sky. "I knew you lied to me." Their voice came out much more wavering than they wanted to. Hero still refused to make eye contact with their nemesis. They rubbed the palm of their hand against the tears streaking down their cheeks.

They took a moment to catch their breath though it was clear Hero was crying now. Their breathing was sharp as they tried to relax their nerves and take control futilely. 

"You know it's pretty damn hard working 8-9 hours of shifts." 

Villain let them speak and listened attentively. 

"I waited all my damn life to- to- to what?" They whipped their head around to Villain, their face red and wrists flicking the air. "To what, Villain? I don't even know what I want!" They sniffled and leaned back into the seat. "And here I am, getting my life screwed over for little reward."

Hero lifted their sleeves to wipe at their face roughly. 

Villain awkwardly waited; they never encountered someone crying before. Usually, someone else did the comforting. They weren't used to that, but it was worth trying.

They reached out and placed a hand on their shaking shoulder with some reserve. "Uhm… I don't know how to do this stuff, but I didn't mean to lie when I said I was taking you to my boss. I just wanted you to tell me what was going on. It's unusual for you to disappear for this long."

Hero looked up at them, their eyes still watery and adjusting to the dark setting. They could barely make out Villain's face, but their words were clear.

"I had thought… nobody would realize if I had just… stepped out of the picture." They licked their lips. "It seemed like no one wanted to care anymore." Hero choked on their sob, a pain held tight onto their throat.

"Hey, hey, hey. Look at me, Hero." They moved their hair to the side. "I'm here, Hero. I care about you. You don't think I wouldn't have come if I didn't?" 

"I don't know why I always feel… isolated."

"You shouldn't have to."

Hero smiled at them, ease blanketing over them at last. They weren't sure for how long they would stay this way until Villain asked, and to be fair, that's all they wanted to hear, even if it was just one person asking. That was enough, maybe even too generous of them, but that was just the afterthoughts talking.

~~~

MASTERLIST

[ducktoonsfanart]

Donald kisses Daisy Duck - Donsy - The Legend of The Three Caballeros - My redraw - Duckverse

I drew this on July 12th.

After a long time I drew again my favorite couple Donsy (the love couple between Donald and Daisy) and this time I decided to redraw scenes from the end of the penultimate episode of Shangri-La-Di-Da"" underrated series "The Legend of The Three Caballeros" and that's when Donald kissed Daisy on the beak and told her "I'm going to my destiny!" or "To my destiny!" in front of Baron von Sheldgoose's house or the New Quackmore Institute. Yes, Donald had to help his best friends the Caballeros (Jose Carioca and Panchito Pistoles) and the goddess Xandra in the fight against Baron von Sheldgoose and his ancestor Lord Felldrake who want to destroy and turn the world into chaos. Donald left Daisy with Ari the Aracuan Bird and Humphrey the Bear. What will happen in the end remains to be seen in this great series. Yes, I'm aware that Daisy had bad moments and treated Donald badly, but still after they were at the Himalayan Spa, their relationship changed for the better and Daisy had some good moments in that series. If that series had more episodes and lasted longer, maybe they would have gotten a focus on Daisy Duck. Also this kiss is my favorite moment, it's like it's from a movie. So I drew this as my redraw from that scene, in my own way. Thanks to Matt Danner and all the people who worked on this. On June 7, 1940, Donald’s classic short “Mr Duck Steps Out” was shown, featuring Daisy Duck for the first time. 9/6/1934 The Classic Short “The Wise Little Hen” was shown and Donald Duck appeared there for the first time. Donald Duck will become one of the main stars of not only Disney, but also cartoon films, comics and video games at all. Certainly there is no need to tell his history. I mention this because even though it passed, it is definitely one of my favorite Disney series that I have watched and enjoyed. I hope you like this.

I hope you like this drawing and feel free to like and reblog this, just don't copy these same ideas of mine without mentioning me and without my permission. Thank you! Also this is a gift for my friend who adores this love couple, dear @barbiedisneyavenger, @barbiedisneyavenger-reblog and for all of you who love this couple. And happy late birthday to Daisy Duck and especially Donald Duck, who turned 90 this year!

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

reposting one i read on reddit that got removed but i just need to know what tumblr thinks:

AITA for finishing in my girlfriend during the full moon, thinking it was not possible for her to be fertile?

I know the title sounds weird, but I promise this isn't a shitpost, metaphor, or a joke. I (20M) was raised by a single dad, never knew my mom who left me as a baby, and growing up I didn't really have many female (or male, tbh) friends.

The reason I say this is that I don't know all that much about female anatomy; yes, I had sex ed in school, but seriously don't remember anything except "wear a condom", basically.

I met my girlfriend "Beth" (21F) in college and she's the best. It's my first relationship, her second. We've been together for a little more than a year now, and had sex for the first time about half a year ago. After the first couple times, Beth told me that she has a really regular and average period that she's been keeping track of with an app since she was literally 14, plus in the last few years she also started taking her temperature to get even more accurate results; I didn't understand exactly how this works, but she was so reassuring and confident I didn't question it.

Ok, now this is where I might start sounding like an idiot... So she told me her period is an extremely regular 28 days, and she has literally only strayed from this pattern once since she was 14. I also am aware that moon cycles are 28 days. (Correction here: since this incident, I Googled and it's actually about 29 days... but that's besides the point I guess.)

Women tend to be associated with the moon, like Artemis; I truly, deeply believed that the moon phases and all women's menstrual cycles were inherently connected, but just like, different women had their more fertile days with full moons whereas for some it corresponds to a different moon phase, like the new moon, and this is why women differed.

So the reason Beth told me about her period being super regular is that she was confident she knew when she was or was not fertile, and told me she wanted me to finish in her on safe days. We've been having sex like this for the last four months where she tells me the window of time she's safe, she's happy, I'm happy, it's working fine.

I started noticing that the moon tends to be really full and bright every time we have unprotected sex, maybe not necessarily always on a "true" full moon, but definitely around that time. I made a mental note that my girlfriend is a "fertile during a new moon (when you can't see the moon)" sort of girl. If you're wondering why I never just outright asked her about this, it just seemed really obvious to me and I didn't see the point in talking to her about something potentially a little embarrassing for no reason.

June 3rd was the most recent true full moon, and I decided to sort of surprise her by inviting her to my apartment and just pouncing on her wordlessly as soon as she came in. She was into it, we had sex, I finished inside her, she didn't complain or stop me at all.

While cooling off, she remarked that she didn't remember telling me about her safe days in a while, so I must be tracking her period, which she actually thought was sweet lol. I said, "well of course it's a safe day, the moon is so bright". She asked me what I meant, and I said something like "I know you can't possibly get pregnant during a full moon".

She seemed really confused and started getting a bit tense, questioning me more, and I, also confused, started explaining to her about the moon cycle thing I fully believed up until that moment.

This is where she freaked out completely, jumped up and asked me if I was a complete moron. She started yelling at me and freaking out about how insane and irresponsible I was for finishing in her. I was truly shocked I had no idea what to say, especially because it WAS still truly a safe day, but she actually just grabbed her stuff and stormed off before I could do anything.

Well, after she left I googled a bunch of stuff and yep, turns out I'm completely incorrect. That being said, it WAS still a safe day for Beth and she wasn't actually upset about me finishing in her or anything, just the reason I did, I guess. So, AITA?

So generally I don't want to rerun posts from reddit unless it's your own story, but we'll make an exception just this once

What are these acronyms?

[mcrdvcks]

Sweet Dreams - Chapter 5

Chapter Summary: Alexandria celebrates Christmas for the first time in 15 years.

Word Count: 7.7k+

Pairing: Logan (X-Men) x Original Female Character (platonic relationship)

Notes: hello there (in obi-wan's voice)!!

yes, this is a christmas chapter (i'm aware it's not december, i actually wrote this in like chapter in june/july) but that's how the timeline worked out. this is pretty much just fluff before the next chapter when things start to pick up...

Series Masterlist - Chapter 4 → Chapter 6

AO3 Link For Chapter

It had been a few weeks since the mission Alexandria and Logan went on. She told Professor Xavier about the card she found in one of the guy’s pockets, and how HYDRA used that organization for its hitmen frequently.

But it had been a few weeks since then, and it was now 4 days before Christmas.

Very few of the students had left to see their families, and the majority had stayed at the mansion, having nowhere to go.

They were currently watching a Christmas movie, something about Santa Clause and Tim Allen. Alexandria grabbed a few pieces of popcorn from the bowl Jean had in her hands.

Kitty, who was on the other side of Jean looked over at Alexandria, “have you ever celebrated Christmas?”

Alexandria tilted her head, thinking back to the memories before HYDRA. While she was only 3 when she was taken, she could still remember those years with her family perfectly.

“Mama and papa would have a small Christmas tree in the corner. We didn’t have a lot, and sometimes that would make me upset, but Mikhail would cheer me up.” Alexandria’s voice was soft, a rare moment of vulnerability seeping through her usually guarded exterior.

Kitty nodded, her eyes curious. “That sounds nice. Do you remember what kind of decorations you had?”

Alexandria shook her head, frowning slightly. “Not much. It was simple. It was mostly homemade decorations, a small tree. Nothing fancy.”

Jean, who had been listening intently, smiled sympathetically. “It’s good that you have those memories, though. Christmas can be special, even with just a small tree.”

Alexandria shrugged, reaching for another handful of popcorn. “I suppose. I’ve never really thought about it much. Christmas wasn’t something we celebrated at HYDRA.”

“Yeah,” Kitty said, her tone thoughtful. “Most people don’t think about what the holidays mean until they have a chance to experience them differently.”

Jean looked over at Alexandria with a small, encouraging smile. “You’re part of the X-Mansion family now. You can make new memories here. We’re all here, and we care about each other.”

Alexandria glanced at Jean and Kitty, unsure how to respond. The idea of making new memories was still a bit foreign to her. “I guess. I’m just not used to all this... festivity.”

Jubilee, who had been lounging on the couch, looked up. “It’s not just about the decorations or the gifts. It’s about spending time with people who matter. Even if you don’t have a lot of experience with it, you’re always welcome here.”

“Yeah,” Kitty added, “we’re a family here. And families stick together, especially during the holidays.”

Alexandria nodded, her gaze shifting back to the movie. The scene on the screen showed a snowy town, a stark contrast to her memories of the cold Russian terrain. The movie’s cheerful atmosphere was almost jarring compared to the heaviness of her past.

---

“Alexandria! Come help your mother.” Her dad called out in Russian.

“Coming!” Alexandria replied, getting off her desk chair where she was making a card for mama.

She walked into the kitchen and found her mother over the stove, a strong chocolate scent coming from the pot.

“Go up, Sashulya.” Her mom said, as Alexandria stepped onto the stool to stir the point where mama was making hot chocolate.

“Aleksi! Don't fall!” Mikhail called out from by her. He was older than her by 5 years, making him 8 years old.

Alexandria stuck her tongue out, “I won't.”

---

She blinked her eyes open, the only source of light coming from a small nightlight in the corner, and the moon shining through her window.

Alexandria never got to ask mama what that recipe was for hot chocolate. She was only a child, she thought she had all the time in the world.

Nonetheless, that once in a lifetime happy dream made her want hot chocolate.

She took off the mind blocker from her forehead and slipped into her slippers before making her way down to the kitchen.

It couldn’t be that hard to make homemade hot chocolate, right? She needed chocolate and…

Shit, what else?

Milk and sugar maybe?

She rummaged through the cabinets looking for sugar but couldn’t find any. Nor did she know where any kind of chocolate was.

Logan rubbed his eyes, squinting in the dim light of the kitchen. He’d been outside in the cold night smoking, and now the warmth of the house felt a bit too cozy, almost dizzying. The sight of Alexandria, dressed in her pajamas and slippers, rifling through the cabinets with a look of determination mixed with confusion, made him sigh.

“Kid, what the hell are you doing?” Logan’s voice was rough but held a hint of concern. He stepped further into the kitchen, his whiskey bottle clinking against the counter as he placed it down.

Alexandria looked up, her expression morphing from guilty to defensive. “Uh… nothing?”

Logan’s eyes narrowed. “You don’t look like you’re just standing around. You’re digging through the cabinets like you’re searching for buried treasure.”

She rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly. “I was trying to make hot chocolate. I remembered mama making it, and I wanted to… try it myself.”

Logan raised an eyebrow. “Hot chocolate, huh? You’re not exactly winning any awards for subtlety.”

Alexandria shrugged, her cheeks flushing slightly. “I just… I had a dream about it. I thought it would be nice to try.”

Logan leaned against the counter, folding his arms. “And what makes you think you can just whip up hot chocolate without knowing what you’re doing?”

She looked around the kitchen, her brow furrowing. “I thought it would be easy. Chocolate, milk, sugar, right? But I can’t find anything.”

Logan’s expression softened, though he still looked skeptical. “You’re missing a few steps, kid. And you’ve got to know where to find the ingredients.” He grabbed a mug from a cabinet and pulled out a small tin of cocoa powder from another. “Milk’s in the fridge. Sugar’s in the pantry, on the top shelf.”

Alexandria’s eyes lit up with a mix of relief and embarrassment. “I didn’t know where to look.”

Logan smirked, handing her the cocoa powder. “Well, if you’re set on this, you might as well learn how to do it right. Here’s a quick rundown: you mix cocoa with sugar, heat up the milk, then combine everything.”

“Thanks,” Alexandria said, taking the tin from him. She hesitated for a moment before adding, “mama used to use chocolate bars. They were expensive, but me and Mikhail liked it better.”

Logan eyed the cocoa powder in Alexandria's hands, his rough exterior cracking just slightly as he watched her attempt to connect with a part of her past. "Chocolate bars, huh?" he grunted. "Well, we ain’t got any of those fancy ones here. But the powder’ll do."

Alexandria nodded, staring down at the tin. “It’s not the same, but... it’ll work.”

Logan pulled a small pot from one of the lower cabinets and placed it on the stove, turning on the heat. “You’re gonna wanna warm up the milk first. Don’t just dump everything in cold. You’ll end up with a mess.”

She watched closely as he grabbed a carton of milk from the fridge and poured some into the pot, his movements deliberate and steady.

As the milk began to warm, Logan handed her a spoon. “Stir it slow. You don’t want it to burn.”

She took the spoon and began stirring the milk, her expression focused. “I remember... Mikhail used to try and sneak sips before it was ready. Mama would always catch him.” Her lips curled into the slightest hint of a smile, a rare sight.

Logan watched her, leaning against the counter. “Sounds like he was a pain in the ass,” he remarked, though there was no harshness in his voice.

Alexandria shrugged. “He was. But he was also the only one who could make me laugh when I was upset.”

“Older brothers are good for that,” Logan replied, his tone gruff but with an underlying understanding. He glanced at the pot. “Alright, that’s warm enough. Now you’re gonna mix the cocoa and sugar. Be careful with the amounts. Too much of either and it won’t taste right.”

She nodded, focusing on the task. She measured out the cocoa powder and sugar, adding them to the warm milk with precision. As she stirred, the mixture darkened, turning into a rich, velvety liquid.

Logan handed her a small whisk. “Use this to get it smooth. No lumps.”

She took the whisk and began to stir, her movements careful. The kitchen was quiet, save for the gentle clinking of the whisk against the pot and the soft hum of the stove.

Finally, Logan leaned over to take a look. “Not bad, kid,” he said with a rare note of approval in his voice. “You remember anything else about how your mom made it?”

Alexandria shook her head. “Just that it was sweet, and warm, and... safe.” She frowned slightly, as if the word didn’t quite fit. “We didn’t have much, but when we drank hot chocolate, it felt like everything was okay.”

Logan nodded, understanding all too well the importance of small comforts. He grabbed a couple of mugs from the cabinet and placed them on the counter. “Alright, pour it in.”

She did as he instructed, carefully filling the mugs with the hot chocolate. She hesitated for a moment, then added a bit more sugar to hers, remembering how Mikhail used to sneak extra spoonfuls when their mother wasn’t looking.

Logan picked up his mug, taking a cautious sip. The heat of the drink warmed him from the inside out, chasing away the cold that had settled into his bones during his time outside. “Not bad,” he repeated, his tone softer than before.

Alexandria blew on her mug, cooling it slightly before taking a sip. The taste was rich and sweet, a distant echo of the hot chocolate her mother used to make. It wasn’t the same, but it was close enough. Close enough to feel like a connection to a past that was slipping further away each day.

They stood there in the kitchen, sipping their hot chocolate in silence. It was a rare moment of peace for both of them, a quiet reprieve from the chaos of their lives.

“Thanks,” she said again, her voice quieter now, almost hesitant.

Logan glanced at her, his expression unreadable. “Don’t mention it, kid. Just... don’t make it a habit to raid the kitchen in the middle of the night. We’ve got cooks for a reason.”

She gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. “I won’t.”

They continued drinking their hot chocolate, the silence between them comfortable now. Alexandria wasn’t used to being treated with kindness—HYDRA had seen to that—but she was beginning to realize that maybe, just maybe, there was more to life than just survival. Maybe there was room for something else, something like this—a quiet moment shared over a simple mug of hot chocolate.

As they finished, Logan rinsed his mug in the sink, setting it on the counter. “You should get back to bed,” he said, his voice returning to its usual gruffness. “Long day tomorrow.”

Alexandria nodded, following his lead and rinsing her own mug. “Yeah, I guess.”

As she turned to leave, Logan called out, “Hey, kid.”

She stopped, looking back at him.

“Try to get some sleep. Christmas is coming up. Might as well enjoy it.”

She didn’t respond, just nodded again before heading back upstairs. The warmth of the hot chocolate lingered, a small comfort in the otherwise cold and unfamiliar world she was navigating.

Logan watched her go, a slight frown on his face. He wasn’t used to playing the role of caretaker, especially not for a kid like Alexandria—tough, guarded, and with a past as messed up as his own. But there was something about her that reminded him of himself, and despite his better judgment, he found himself wanting to help her, even if he didn’t quite know how.

---

The next day

When asked what Alexandria had bought for Christmas, she replied nothing, assuming no one else bought anything either.

Kitty reassured her that even if she did buy nothing for anyone else, no one would mind at all.

But her and Jean had been asking quite a lot of question for the past week about things that she wanted. Scott had shown her a movie called Dune, and even told her it was based on a book. So that’s what she told them, but she assured them they didn’t have to get it for her, since she wanted a Russian edition, which was expensive and hard to come by.

“What else do you want?” Jean asked.

Kitty and Jean sat on the couch in the common room, their faces alight with curiosity. Alexandria was seated across from them, looking slightly uncomfortable under their intense scrutiny.

“Yeah, literally, anything,” Kitty added, her eyes gleaming with the excitement of the holiday spirit. “What else do you want?”

Alexandria shifted in her seat, her gaze flitting between the two of them. “I don’t really need anything. I mean, I’ve got—” She paused, trying to find the right words. “—I’ve got everything I need.”

Jean shook her head, her expression one of gentle exasperation. “It’s not about what you need. It’s about what you want. It’s Christmas, Alexandria. It’s okay to want something for yourself.”

Alexandria shrugged, feeling a pang of discomfort at the thought. “I don’t know. I don’t usually... think about stuff like that.”

Kitty’s eyes softened. “We’re not trying to pressure you. It’s just that... well, it’s kind of a tradition for us to get each other gifts. And we want to make sure you’re included.”

Alexandria looked at them, her defenses slowly crumbling under their earnestness. “Okay, fine. Maybe some more candles? Or I saw something called a book light?”

Kitty smiled, exchanging a quick glance with Jean. “A book light, huh? That’s totally doable. Anything else? We’re getting a list together.”

Alexandria shrugged, looking slightly uncomfortable. “Maybe some warm socks? But really, you don’t have to—”

“Warm socks and candles,” Jean interrupted, smiling warmly. “And a book light. Got it. It’s not about whether we have to, Alexandria. We want to. You’re part of the team now, part of the family.”

Alexandria didn’t respond immediately, her gaze dropping to the floor. The word ‘family’ felt foreign to her, something that belonged to another lifetime, before HYDRA, before everything had changed. But there was a warmth in the way Jean and Kitty spoke to her, a genuine kindness that was still unfamiliar but not unwelcome.

Kitty leaned forward, her tone softening. “We’re just glad you’re here with us. It wouldn’t be the same without you.”

Alexandria glanced up, meeting Kitty’s eyes. “Thanks,” she said, her voice almost hesitant. “I’m... trying to get used to it. This whole... being around people thing.”

Jean nodded. “It takes time. No one’s expecting you to change overnight. Just know that we’re here for you, no matter what.”

There was a moment of silence as Alexandria absorbed their words, the reality of this new life slowly sinking in. She wasn’t used to kindness, wasn’t used to people caring about her beyond what she could do for them. But here, at the X-Mansion, things were different. And even though it was hard to let her guard down, she was starting to realize that maybe, just maybe, it was okay to let people in.

---

Later that night, Alexandria was determined to buy Christmas gifts for Jean and Kitty. It was two days away from Christmas, which meant that if she wanted something shipped in time, she would have to pay a hefty delivery fee.

Luckily, she still had Tony Stark’s credit card, so she didn’t have to worry.

Trying to come up with ideas for gifts was hard. Alexandria sat cross-legged on her bed, her new laptop open in front of her, the screen glowing softly in the dim light. The cursor blinked on a blank search bar, taunting her with indecision. What the hell do you get for people when you’ve never really done this whole ‘gift-giving’ thing before?

She sighed, rubbing her temples. Kitty and Jean were the closest thing she had to friends right now, but that didn’t make it any easier. What did people even want for Christmas? Back at HYDRA, the only thing anyone wanted was to survive another day.

“Alright,” she muttered to herself, “think. What do they like?”

Kitty liked technology, right? She was always talking about the latest gadgets, even though Alexandria barely understood half of what she said. And Jean... Jean was harder to pin down. She was always so calm, so collected. Alexandria admired that about her, but it also made her feel like there was some kind of invisible wall between them, a barrier she couldn’t quite break through.

She stared at the screen, tapping her fingers against the keyboard. Her mind drifted back to the other day when Kitty had mentioned something about her favorite headphones being on their last legs. That could work, right? Some high-quality, noise-canceling headphones?

“Alright, that’s one,” she mumbled, pulling up a site that sold electronics. She quickly found a pair that seemed decent and added them to her cart.

Now, Jean.

Alexandria frowned, thinking back to their conversations over the past few weeks. Jean had been reading a lot lately, something about wanting to unwind after the semester. Maybe a nice, leather-bound journal or a set of those fancy pens she always saw in the stationary section of bookstores?

She typed in a quick search for journals and found one that looked... well, it looked like something Jean would like. Simple, elegant, no fuss. She added it to the cart as well, then hesitated.

Was this enough? Did people usually give more than one gift? Or was she overthinking this?

A knock on her door made her jump slightly. She quickly minimized the browser window and called out, “Come in.”

The door creaked open, and Logan stepped inside, his usual scowl in place. “What’re you up to, kid?”

“Nothing,” she said quickly, too quickly. Logan’s eyes narrowed slightly, and she sighed, realizing how suspicious that probably looked. “Just... trying to figure out this whole Christmas gift thing.”

Logan grunted, crossing his arms as he leaned against the doorframe. “First time doing this, huh?”

“Yeah,” she admitted, feeling a bit self-conscious. “Never really had a reason to before.”

He nodded, his expression softening ever so slightly. “It’s not about the price tag, y’know. It’s about showing you care.”

Alexandria scoffed, though there was no real bite to it. “Not really my strong suit.”

Logan shrugged, pushing off the doorframe and stepping further into the room. “Doesn’t have to be. Just pick something that shows you’ve been paying attention. That’s enough.”

She looked at him, studying his gruff features for a moment. He was right, of course. It wasn’t about how much she spent, but about showing that she’d actually thought about the person. She’d never admit it, but she was starting to appreciate his blunt advice, even if it wasn’t wrapped up in niceties.

“Alright,” she said, opening the browser window again. “Headphones for Kitty, a journal for Jean. Think that’s enough?”

Logan grunted again, which she was starting to understand was his way of saying, ‘sure, whatever.’

“Yeah,” he finally said. “It’s more than enough. Like I said, it’s the thought that counts.”

She nodded, feeling a small sense of relief as she completed the purchase. “Okay. Done.”

Logan watched her for a moment longer, his eyes lingering on the screen. “So, what’d you get me?” he asked, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Alexandria blinked, caught off guard. “I... I didn’t know I was supposed to.”

Logan chuckled, a rare sound that was more of a low rumble than anything else. “I’m messing with you, kid. Don’t worry about it.”

She rolled her eyes, though she couldn’t help the small smile that crept onto her face. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

He nodded, satisfied, and turned to leave. “Get some sleep. Tomorrow’s gonna be a busy day.”

“Yeah, sure,” she said, watching as he left the room, closing the door behind him. She stared at the closed door for a moment, feeling a strange mix of emotions. It was still hard for her to wrap her head around the fact that people here actually cared. That they wanted her to be a part of their lives, their traditions.

But now that Logan made a joke about a gift for him, she felt like she had to do something. And maybe get something for Scott too.

---

“Is it immoral to look in someone’s dreams to find out what they want for Christmas?” Alexandria asked Jean in the breakfast line. They were serving something new for Christmas Eve, she’d have to ask Kitty what this pastry was.

Jean’s eyes widened slightly, though her smile remained. “Well, that’s certainly a unique approach. I wouldn’t say it’s immoral, but it’s definitely... unconventional.”

Alexandria frowned, clearly conflicted. “I just want to make sure I get something they actually want. I’m not exactly... experienced with this whole Christmas thing.”

Jean chuckled softly, shaking her head. “I get that. But maybe try to figure it out in a more straightforward way? You could ask them directly or pay attention to hints they drop. It’s more about the thought you put into it than the actual gift.”

Alexandria nodded slowly, mulling over Jean’s words. “Alright. I’ll try that. Thanks.”

As they moved through the line, Kitty came up beside them, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. “What are you two talking about?”

“Alexandria was considering using her dream powers to figure out what people want for Christmas,” Jean explained with a grin.

Kitty laughed, her eyes dancing with amusement. “That’s actually pretty clever. But like Jean said, there are better ways to go about it. Why not just observe what people are into or, you know, ask them?”

Alexandria sighed, feeling slightly embarrassed. “I guess that makes sense. I just want to make sure I get it right.”

Kitty patted her on the back. “You’ll do great. It’s the thought that counts. And if you need any help, just ask. We’re here to make this holiday as smooth as possible for you.”

“Thanks,” Alexandria said, her mood brightening a bit. She finally grabbed a pastry from the counter, still unsure what it was but hoping it would be a pleasant surprise.

As they made their way to a table, Scott joined them, carrying a stack of plates. “Hey, Alexandria. How’s the gift planning going?”

She hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. “I’m still working on it. I’ve got a couple of ideas, but I’m not entirely sure if they’re right.”

Scott nodded, looking genuinely interested. “If you need any advice or suggestions, just let me know. It’s a tricky thing, buying gifts for people.”

“Yeah, I’m finding that out,” Alexandria said with a small smile. “Now, Kitty. What is this thing?” She lifted the pastry up, some sort of white substance sticking to her fingers.

Kitty grinned, “a cinnamon roll. And that white stuff is icing.”

Alexandria studied the pastry with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. “Icing, huh?” She took a tentative bite, her eyes widening as the sweet, buttery flavor hit her taste buds. “This is... actually pretty good.”

“Glad you like it,” Kitty said, taking a seat at the table. “We’re having a bit of a special breakfast for Christmas Eve. Lots of treats and festive stuff.”

Scott sat down in front of her, “so, how’s the gift planning coming along?”

Alexandria swallowed, feeling a bit awkward as she responded. “I’ve got a few things lined up. I’m still working on figuring out what to get for everyone, though.”

“Anything you need help with?” Scott asked. “It can be pretty overwhelming, especially if you’re not used to it.”

“Maybe,” Alexandria said, glancing at Scott. “I’m trying to figure out what people actually want, not just what I think they’d like.”

“Understandable,” Scott said with a nod. “It’s all about making the effort to get something meaningful, even if it’s not perfect.”

Kitty took a sip of her coffee, looking thoughtful. “You know, you could always ask people for hints. Or just pay attention to what they talk about.”

“Yeah, I’ve tried that,” Alexandria admitted. “But it’s not always easy to pick up on what people really want.”

Jean smiled encouragingly. “It’s all part of the process. And don’t stress too much. The fact that you’re putting in the effort means a lot.”

Alexandria nodded, feeling a bit more at ease. “I appreciate that. I’m just trying to make sure I get it right.”

“Well,” Kitty said, grinning, “if you need any last-minute advice, just let us know. We’re here to help.”

“Thanks,” Alexandria said, feeling a bit more confident. “I think I’m on the right track now.”

As the conversation shifted to other topics, Alexandria found herself more relaxed, enjoying the company and the festive atmosphere. It was a stark contrast to her past experiences, and though she wasn’t quite sure how to handle it, she was beginning to appreciate the sense of camaraderie and warmth.

---

Right after breakfast she went to her room to finish Christmas shopping. She ended up getting Jubilee something as well, it was a simple firework keychain that she found ironic.

For Scott, she decided on a state-of-the-art drone with camera features and a detachable arm.

But she still didn’t know what to get Logan. Even after the advice she was given, it was hard to think of something that he would like- or even tolerate.

She knew that Logan was tough, and his gruff exterior made it hard to figure out what he might like. He wasn’t the type to give away hints or show much interest in material things. She’d seen him ignore the little things, like when the cafeteria staff tried to make holiday treats just for him, or when someone brought him a present that he promptly shoved into a corner.

But she also knew that he had a soft spot, however well-hidden it was. He had shown her a bit of kindness, and there were moments when he was gentler than she would have expected. Despite his roughness, there was a certain kind of warmth in the way he had tried to offer her advice on her Christmas shopping, even if it was delivered in his usual blunt manner.

“What do you get someone who doesn’t really want anything?” Alexandria muttered to herself. She thought back to their brief interactions and tried to remember if he had ever mentioned anything he liked or needed.

Then an idea popped into her head.

---

Christmas

She had spent almost all night wrapping their presents, hoping that they were at least presentable.

The gift for Kitty, a pair of high-quality noise-canceling headphones, was wrapped in bright, festive paper with a big bow on top. Jean’s gift, a leather-bound journal, was in similar paper but with a more understated ribbon. The keychain for Jubilee was in a small gift bag, and Scott’s drone was wrapped in blue wrapping paper.

As Alexandria staggered into the common room Christmas morning, she carried a large bag filled with the neatly wrapped presents. The common room was already buzzing with holiday excitement. The tree stood tall in the corner, decorated with shimmering lights and ornaments. A few early risers were already gathered around it, exchanging cheerful greetings.

Kitty was the first to spot Alexandria. “Hey, good morning!” she called, her eyes bright with excitement. “You’re up early.”

“Couldn’t sleep,” Alexandria admitted, setting the bag down by the tree. “Thought I’d get these out before everyone starts gathering.”

Jean appeared soon after, her expression just as cheerful. “You didn’t have to wake up so early for that. We’ve still got some time before everyone gets here.”

“I know,” Alexandria said, a touch of embarrassment creeping into her voice. “Just wanted to get it done.”

Scott joined them, carrying a mug of coffee. “Good morning, Alexandria. I see you’re already in the Christmas spirit.”

“Something like that,” she said, her gaze shifting between the three of them. “Didn’t want to mess up the wrapping.”

Jubilee came bouncing into the room, her eyes immediately drawn to the pile of gifts. “Hey! Presents! Whoa, is that a firework keychain?” She grabbed it with excitement. “That’s awesome! Thanks!”

Alexandria felt a little relieved at the positive reaction. “You’re welcome. I thought it was kind of funny.”

Scott, who had been watching the exchange, finally spoke up. “Alright, let’s get this holiday started. Who wants to hand out the presents?”

Alexandria glanced around at the eager faces. “I’ll do it,” she offered. “If that’s okay.”

“Sounds good to me,” Scott said, grinning. “Let’s make sure everyone gets their gifts.”

One by one, Alexandria handed out the presents. Kitty’s eyes lit up when she opened her gift. “These are amazing! Thank you so much, Alexandria.”

Jean’s reaction was similarly positive. “This journal is beautiful. I’ve been meaning to get one like this.”

Scott was thrilled with his drone. “This is incredible. Thanks for going all out.”

The room was filled with laughter and excitement as everyone exchanged gifts. Alexandria watched with a mix of satisfaction and apprehension. She was still adjusting to this whole Christmas thing, but seeing everyone’s happy reactions made her feel like she might be getting the hang of it.

Kitty and Jean gave her a strawberry scented candle, a book light, socks, and a Taylor Swift cd, folklore, for her computer.

The day went on, to having another Christmas movie marathon, playing Nerf tag with some Nerf guns Jean got Scott and Kurt, and then Christmas dinner.

Once it was nighttime, Alexandria went onto her spot on the roof, though she hadn’t been up here in months. She had her feet dangled over the edge, her feet warm thanks to the thick fluffy socks from Jean and Kitty.

A plop took her gaze away from the stars, it was a box that Logan had placed down next to her as he sat down.

She slowly grabbed the box and opened it, the tape tearing at the sides. Underneath a thin layer of wrapping tissue paper was a copy of Dune in Russian.

Her eyes widened; she hadn’t even been able to find one online anywhere. She never even told Logan either, only Kitty and Jean.

Logan, sitting beside her on the roof, glanced at her sideways, his usual gruffness softened just a bit. “So, what do you think?”

She looked up at him, trying to find the right words. “I… I can’t believe you actually found it. How did you—”

“Don’t ask questions,” Logan interrupted, his voice rough but with an undercurrent of warmth. “Just know I pay attention. Besides, Kitty talks a lot.”

Alexandria’s gaze remained fixed on the book in her hands, her fingers gently brushing the cover as if to verify its authenticity. “I didn’t think…” she trailed off, not finding the right words to say.

Logan shrugged, leaning back against the rooftop ledge. “It’s not that hard to pay attention when people talk about stuff all the time. Plus, you’ve got a thing for books. Figured it’d be a safe bet.”

She shook her head, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth despite herself. “You’re right. I do. I just never thought you’d...”

“Don’t get all sappy on me now,” Logan grumbled, though the softening of his usual scowl suggested he was more amused than annoyed. “Just glad you like it.”

Alexandria looked down at the book again, her fingers running over the embossed lettering. “I really do. Thank you. I didn’t expect anyone to get me something so... personal.”

Logan snorted. “Figured you might actually use it. You’re always buried in those dreams of yours. Thought a good book might be a decent distraction.”

She chuckled softly, glancing sideways at him. “You know, you’re not as bad at this whole... caring thing as you pretend to be.”

Logan raised an eyebrow, the hint of a smirk still on his face. “Don’t get any ideas. I’m just not an idiot.”

“I think I prefer you this way,” Alexandria said, her tone light but genuine. “Grumpy and straightforward. It’s easier to handle.”

Logan gave her a side-eye. “Well, don’t get used to it. I’ve got a reputation to uphold.”

They sat in silence for a moment, the distant hum of holiday festivities drifting up from the mansion below. Alexandria felt a sense of calm settle over her, something she hadn’t experienced in a long time.

“So,” Logan broke the silence, his voice gruff but not unkind, “what’d you get me?”

Alexandria’s face flushed slightly, her initial amusement giving way to a more contemplative expression. “I... I wasn’t sure what to get you. You’re not exactly easy to shop for.”

Logan chuckled, a rare sound that was more of a low rumble. “Not exactly a surprise.”

“I thought maybe I’d get you something practical,” Alexandria continued, her tone growing more hesitant. “But... I didn’t really know what you’d use.”

Logan looked at her, a curious glint in his eye. “And?”

“Well, I got you this,” she said, reaching into her pocket and pulling out a small, wrapped package. She handed it to him, her gaze fixed on the ground as if afraid of his reaction.

He unwrapped the candy cane like wrapping paper to find a pair of leather gloves, almost the same color as his jacket with three holes in the knuckles.

“Jean, and even Hank, mentioned that you liked riding a motorcycle,” Alexandria mumbled, swinging her feet over the ledge, her ankle lightly hitting the brick wall. She wasn’t sure what kind of reaction she was expecting from Logan. The gift had felt like a shot in the dark, considering how little she knew about him and what he might actually appreciate.

Logan looked down at the leather gloves, his expression unreadable for a moment. His fingers traced the smooth material, and he turned them over in his hands as if testing their worth. "So, you’re paying attention, huh?" he said gruffly, but there was a hint of something softer in his voice, a kind of reluctant approval.

Alexandria nodded, trying to hide her nervousness. "I figured... you might use them. I don’t know much about bikes, but I remember you mentioning them once."

Logan chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "Yeah, I ride. Nice to have a pair of gloves that won’t fall apart after a few rides. Thanks."

She looked at him sideways, her curiosity getting the better of her. "You really think you’ll use them? I mean, I wasn’t sure if—"

"Trust me," Logan interrupted, his tone a little more patient than usual. "I’ll use them. And they’re better than most of the stuff I get. So, good job."

The compliment, though delivered in Logan’s trademark blunt manner, felt unexpectedly genuine to Alexandria. She let out a small sigh of relief, feeling the tension ease from her shoulders.

He stood up abruptly and walked to the door for the staircase, looking back at Alexandria expectantly, who was still looking at the sky. “You coming, kid?”

She turned to look at him, “for what?”

Logan sighed, squeezing the frame for the doorway. “Let me take you on a ride.”

The shock of his suggestion made her hesitate, her mind racing with the implications of the invitation.

Logan had already started down the stairs, his footsteps echoing through the quiet corridor. Alexandria took a deep breath, looking once more at the book she had received, feeling its weight and significance. She was not used to gifts like this, and the warmth from the gloves she gave Logan was still fresh on her mind.

Shaking off her lingering hesitation, she grabbed her jacket, slipped into the bunny slippers Scott gave her, and hurried after him. The mansion’s halls were festively decorated with wreaths and garlands, adding a touch of cheer to the otherwise serious atmosphere. Alexandria caught up with Logan at the bottom of the stairs, where he was waiting by the back entrance.

The night air was crisp and invigorating as Alexandria followed Logan through the mansion and out into the yard, where a sleek motorcycle sat under the soft glow of the moonlight. The vehicle was black and gleaming, a stark contrast to the snowy ground that crunched under their feet.

Alexandria couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension as she approached the bike. She had always been curious about motorcycles, but this was the first time she was about to experience one up close. The sheer size of the bike, coupled with Logan’s confident demeanor, made the whole situation feel surreal.

“Ever been on a bike before?” Logan asked, his voice cutting through the quiet night air.

Alexandria shook her head. “No. I’ve seen them, but never actually ridden one.”

Logan gave her a lopsided grin, the kind that suggested he was both amused and slightly pleased. “Well, it’s a different kind of experience. Just hold on tight and try not to think too much about it.”

He swung his leg over the bike and settled into the rider’s seat with practiced ease. Alexandria watched him, feeling a mix of admiration and nervousness. Logan’s movements were smooth and assured, as if he and the motorcycle were one entity. She could see why he liked it—there was something undeniably freeing about the way he handled the machine.

“Alright, let’s get you on,” Logan said, patting the seat behind him. “Just hop on and hang on to me. I’ll take care of the rest.”

Alexandria hesitated for a moment before climbing onto the bike. She carefully positioned herself behind Logan, wrapping her arms around his waist as he started the engine. The rumbling vibrations of the motorcycle felt both powerful and exhilarating, sending a thrill through her.

Logan glanced back at her, his expression serious but not unkind. “Ready?”

She nodded, her heart racing with anticipation. “Yeah, ready.”

Logan revved the engine, the deep growl cutting through the crisp night air. Alexandria’s grip tightened around his waist as the motorcycle jolted forward, sending a rush of adrenaline through her. She leaned in closer, her body instinctively pressing against his as they picked up speed.

The world around them blurred into a mix of shadows and moonlight, the cold wind whipping against her face. Despite the chill, the ride was exhilarating, a liberating contrast to the confines of the mansion. Alexandria had never felt this kind of freedom before. It was different from her powers or even the few moments of calm she’d experienced in the past; this was raw, unfiltered sensation.

Logan’s voice, muffled by the wind, cut through her thoughts. “Hang on tight. We’re heading out of the estate.”

Alexandria nodded, her excitement mingling with a tinge of apprehension. She could feel the power of the bike beneath her, the way it responded to Logan’s commands with an almost instinctive grace. She hadn’t imagined she’d be so exhilarated by something like this. The rumble of the engine and the rush of the air were intoxicating.

They sped through the snow-covered grounds, the headlights cutting through the darkness and illuminating the empty landscape. Logan expertly navigated the bike around turns and curves, his movements smooth and confident. Alexandria couldn’t help but admire his skill. There was a roughness to him, but in this moment, it seemed like he was entirely in his element.

As they left the mansion behind, the snow-covered trees and open fields stretched out before them. The moonlight cast a silver glow over everything, creating a tranquil yet vibrant landscape. Alexandria took in the scenery, her thoughts momentarily drifting from the intense ride.

Logan’s voice broke through again. “You doing alright back there?”

Alexandria shouted over the wind, “Yeah! This is amazing!”

Logan’s laughter was a low rumble, mixed with the hum of the bike. “Just wait. We’re not even hitting top speed yet.”

Alexandria’s heart raced, the adrenaline coursing through her making her grip around Logan’s waist even tighter. “I’m ready!” she shouted back, barely able to hear her own voice over the roar of the engine.

Logan gave a low chuckle and twisted the throttle, the bike surging forward with a burst of speed. The wind whipped fiercely against Alexandria’s face, and she felt a thrill unlike anything she’d ever experienced.

They shot through the snow-covered fields, the snowflakes sparkling like tiny stars in the moonlight, and Alexandria’s eyes widened with exhilaration. The bike wove smoothly through the terrain, the suspension absorbing the uneven ground effortlessly.

Logan maneuvered with practiced ease, clearly enjoying the ride as much as Alexandria was. Despite the cold, the warmth from the engine and the exhilaration made the air feel alive and vibrant. “You ever feel this free?” Logan called over his shoulder, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.

Alexandria shouted back, “No, never! This is incredible!”

Logan’s grin was almost audible in his voice. “Thought you might like it. You’re always in your own world. Sometimes it’s good to get out and feel something different.”

Alexandria tightened her grip as the bike took a sharp turn, the snow crunching under the tires. She leaned into the curve, feeling the powerful thrust of the engine as it navigated the bend with ease.

The rush was intoxicating, each moment blending into the next as the landscape blurred by. Logan’s voice cut through the wind. “You holding up back there?”

“Yeah!” Alexandria shouted back, her excitement nearly drowning out her voice.

Logan chuckled, a low sound that mingled with the rumble of the engine. “Told you. Not too shabby, huh?”

She nodded against his back, her face buried in the warmth of his jacket. “Definitely not what I expected.”

They sped through the snow-covered fields, the bike’s headlights slicing through the darkness. Alexandria’s senses were overwhelmed by the cold wind, the exhilarating speed, and the sheer freedom of the ride. It was a stark contrast to the tightly controlled environment of the mansion and her usual internal world of dreams.

Logan’s voice was steady and commanding over the roar of the engine. “You ever get tired of being cooped up in that head of yours?”

Alexandria hesitated for a moment, her thoughts jostling with the rush of the ride. “Sometimes,” she shouted back. “But it’s hard to escape from it. It’s always there.”

“Maybe you need more moments like this,” Logan said, his tone almost thoughtful. “It’s not about escaping; it’s about finding a balance.”

Alexandria looked around, taking in the open space and the way the moonlight danced on the snow. “It’s definitely different,” she admitted. “And I think I like it.”

Logan glanced back at her, a rare moment of softness in his usually stern gaze. “Good. Sometimes you gotta break out of your comfort zone. It’s the only way to really feel alive.”

The bike surged forward, the speed intensifying. Alexandria’s heart raced with the thrill, her arms tightening around Logan’s waist. The wind seemed to whisper secrets, and for the first time in a long time, she felt an exhilarating sense of freedom.

After a few more minutes of racing through the snow, Logan slowed the bike, bringing it to a stop on a secluded hill. The view from the top was breathtaking, with the mansion’s lights twinkling in the distance and the vast expanse of snow-covered fields stretching out beneath the moonlight.

Logan turned off the engine and waited for Alexandria to dismount before getting off himself. She wobbled slightly as she got off, the adrenaline still coursing through her veins. She looked at Logan, a grin spreading across her face.

“That was incredible,” she said, her voice filled with genuine awe. “I’ve never felt anything like it.”

Logan shrugged, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Yeah, it’s a good feeling. Sometimes you need to get out of your own head to really understand what’s going on around you.”

Alexandria nodded, still catching her breath. “I can see that now. Thanks for this.”

Logan gave her a sideways glance, his usual gruffness softened by the moment. “Don’t mention it. Figured you could use a break from all that thinking you do.”

She looked up at him, a touch of gratitude in her eyes. “I appreciate it. I really do.”

They stood in silence for a moment, the cool night air wrapping around them. Alexandria felt a sense of peace she hadn’t experienced in a while. It was a stark contrast to her usual existence, where her emotions and thoughts were often tangled in complexity and secrecy.

Logan broke the silence with his usual bluntness. “Alright, kid. Time to head back. It’s getting late.”

Alexandria nodded, following him back to the bike. As they rode back to the mansion, the sense of exhilaration lingered, mixing with a newfound warmth from the unexpected bond they were forming.

When they finally arrived back at the mansion, Alexandria felt a deep sense of contentment. Logan’s presence, while still gruff and unyielding, had become a surprising source of comfort. Despite the rough edges and unspoken words, there was a connection that was starting to take shape between them—one that went beyond mere words or actions.

As they parked the bike and made their way inside, Alexandria glanced at Logan. “You know, I’m starting to understand why you like these rides so much.”

Logan grunted in acknowledgment, giving her a rare nod of approval. “Good. Sometimes it takes a while to figure out what you need.”

They entered the mansion together, the festive atmosphere of the holiday season still alive and vibrant around them. Alexandria felt a sense of belonging she hadn’t expected to find, and the warmth from the ride lingered, offering a glimpse of what it might be like to finally connect with someone in a way she had never allowed herself before.

As they made their way back to their rooms, Logan glanced at Alexandria one last time. “Merry Christmas, kid.”

Alexandria smiled, feeling a genuine warmth spread through her. “Merry Christmas, Logan.”

[thistledropkick]

I translated the first ever interview with Young Lion Mikami Kyosuke, published on New Japan’s website, from March 8, 2010.

Hit by Hansen’s bull rope and awakened to pro wrestling! A quick interview with anticipated newcomer Mikami Kyosuke

The Act Tower Tournament was held in Hamamatsu on March 7th. There, a newcomer made his long anticipated debut against Taguchi Ryusuke.

His name is Mikami Kyosuke. Influenced by pro wrestling since childhood, he joined the prestigious Senshu University’s wrestling club in order to become a professional wrestler. We managed to catch Mikami for an interview before his match! In this first-ever interview, we talked to him about his current state of mind, his passion, and information about himself.

- Your debut match was decided rather abruptly, wasn’t it?

M: Yes. I was told five days ago. And I’m still about to b*rf (from stress.) I thought “Well, I’m debuting after Fale” (laughs) (Fale Simi Taitoko = a trainee from the same class / debuted in April)

- Mikami, please tell us about your background.

M: I did judo and amateur wrestling, and then entered Senshu University on a wrestling sports recommendation from Nigata prefecture’s Maki Agricultural High school (now Maki Sougou High School)

- That’s a famous college with a prestigious connection to pro wrestling, right?

M: Our coach was Hase Hiroshi (ex pro wrestler, current Lower House member) and Nakanishi (Manabu) would watch over our training sessions as well. Hirasawa (Mitsuhide) was a third year student there when I was a first year. But, I dropped out……

- Excuse me for asking, but why did you drop out?

M: Because I didn’t go to class. I was an economics major but I don’t have any interest in economics (laughs). I originally wanted to do pro wrestling, which is why I originally started amateur wrestling in the first place.

- So, after that?

M: I tried to enroll with New Japan Pro Wrestling, but my application didn’t make it past the initial screening. My dad scolded me, saying “What’re you gonna do about your student debt, you bastard!” and I thought “This is really bad” as I moved back to my hometown. 

I owe my dad a large amount of money to pay off my student loan. So after that, I worked construction for about a year, and then for about four years I was a freeter working at restaurants, at a beach resort, a pachinko parlor, and so on. But then in May of 2009, the (New Japan Pro Wrestling dojo) admission test rules changed, and the height restriction was removed. Hirasawa said “Hey, what’re you gonna do? You gonna go for it?” and I submitted the application one more time.

- And in June 23rd of 2009, you became a student. Were you always a pro wrestling fan?

M: Yeah. Due to my dad’s influence, I always was. When I was still in preschool, I got hit by Stan Hansen’s bull rope at an All Japan show, and my pro wrestling awakening began. All Japan, New Japan, FMW, I loved ‘em all.

- Did you tell anyone about your debut?

M: My parents and my local friends. And later I told my friends on GREE [Note from me: GREE is a gaming social media ap, so this is kind of like telling your Steam friends or something] I told them, "I'm gonna be in a match." The reactions from everyone were pretty intense. Because I hadn't told anyone I was a trainee at New Japan. I only told everyone once the company officially announced it and posted my name on the website. As you might expect, my mother is worried about me. But my grandma, who loves pro wrestling, said “YEAH, GO GET EM!” (laughs)

- What is your special move?

M: I’m just debuting right now, I don’t have a special move yet (laughs) But, since I’ve been doing amateur wrestling for so long, I think I’ll concentrate on a single leg, double leg, and tackle.

- And your “sales point” is?

M: I’ve got a stocky body type, but I’m going for “chubby yet agile.”

- And your rivals are?

M: Right now, the students in the dojo are Fale and Takahashi, and classmates are perfect as rivals. And of course I’m aware of Hirasawa as well.

- What kind of wrestler do you want to be?

M: Most of all, I want to be someone that everyone wants to cheer for. Basically, it’s stupid, but I love attention (laughs) I want to be the kind of pro wrestler that makes the fans yell “DO YOUR BEST!”

- The opponent you want to fight is?

M: There are too many to even name.

- Finally, express your enthusiasm to us in one sentence.

M: Anyway, pleased to meet you all and thank you for your support, I’ll keep working hard and doing my best. Taguchi is IWGP Jr Tag Champion so, having a person like that as my debut opponent is an incredible honor. Anyway, I plan to use the things that he has taught me. Pleased to meet you all, thank you for your support.

[lullydoesstuff]

- TOP DYSTOPIAN BOOKS -

Well, since I want to use this blog for personal stuff too and not just for requests or stuff concerning my MANY Demon Slayer AUs, here we are talking about some of my favourite books ever.

I love dystopian ones so these three will be very hard-core, I love the Hunger Games, I love Maze Runner, I love 1984 but these three just hit different.

Let's not lose time and let's begin!

3 - Tender is the Flesh (Augustina Bazterrica)

I decided to start with a book that has arrived in my country just this year, I didn't know about it before and I'm so glad I red it, even if it really disturbed me... do you know what the Promised Neverland is? Well, take it but make it Supersayan. And this is the less disturbing one here.

Plot: Marcos works in the meat industry, he always did but recently a virus started spreading, and animals couldn't be edible anymore so what does the government do? They start searching for vegan replacements? NO! They legalize cannibalism. Marcos has a troubled life, his father has gone mad since this "transition" from animal meat to human meat and his wife left him after they lost their son. He works in the meat industry but he swears to himself that he's not like the others, because he doesn't eat meat.

I know what you're thinking, "but this is a book to bring people close to veganism, it's the whole point"... no, congratulations, you didn't understand ANYTHING. This book is way more complex, this because it's about the line that divides humanization/objectification, and this will be a recurring theme in this post.

This book is full of gore (what did you expect?), graphic descriptions, violence, sexual violence so I don't know if I recommend this book to everyone, it's very short but be aware of this if you decide to read it. In any case, the plot is very interesting and it's very well written.

2 - The Handmaid's Tale (Margaret Atwood)

I'm sure many of you have seen the TV series, I've seen it too and it's one of the few cases I say that the series is better than the book, maybe because the series has a more modern setting and so I can actually be terrified by it.

Plot: the world has been almost destroyed by wars and this caused the birth to decrease to 0, and what happens in America? After a coup a new government is instituted... a totalitarian theocracy where religious confessions that aren't Christianity are banned, let's fucking go, this new country's name is Gilead. In this new world women have an only job: being literal baby machines given to rich families to have children.

This is so damn disturbing because, the insemination thing is wild, the man reads a Bible verse from Genesis, and then he just... does it. It's gross, go check for yourselves, human butchering was nothing compared to this.

We follow June, an Handmaid and we just see how things work in this new... amazing... world... I guess.

1 - Unwind (Neal Shusterman)

This deserves the first place, I've never stopped reading a book I loved because it disturbed me too much. I wanted to support the author, he's very good, so I bought all the other books from the Unwind distology... but I finished the first one and never red the second one, please tell me in the comments if it isn't as disturbing as the first one so I can give it a chance or not.

Plot: in the USA a second civil war is fought, but that's not a war where you shoot people from aontoher country to conquer it, or to oppose the government (well... kinda), it's about reproductive rights, many discussions, many things but in the end people decree that you can't abort in any case (*Lully already screaming and tearing off her hair*) BUT you can... well... Unwind your child if you don't want them anymore. But just when he's from 13 to 18.

What does unwind mean? Basically you give your unwanted child to some clinics that literally vivisection them (yes, the person is awake during the process BY LAW) and give thier organs to people that need transplants.

Now you can easily understand why this is the number 1 in this list, it's the destructive combo between "Tender is The Flash" and "the Handmaid's Tale".

We'll follow the story of Risa, Connor and Levi (and this last one oh my God, I wanted to punch his family so bad), escaping their fate of being unwind.

And yes, that scene comes, yes, you will see a vivisection, and yes... you will feel physically sick and need to throw up after, you'll probably have nightmares and life crisis. Also because... the unwind isn't exactly one of the "good guys".

Ah, dear pro-life people that care about a bunch of unborn cells and can't distinguish a human embryo from a dolphin embryo... Read this book, then change your mind about other people's body and take choices just for yours, because it seems we're going back and not aiming foward as we should.

[houseofbrat]

Well, isn't that convenient?

[archive link]

Princess Kate is eyeing up her next public appearance, as she’s keen to head to Paris to watch some of the 2024 Olympic Games. The Princess of Wales has made two major appearances since her shock cancer diagnosis at the start of the year, stepping out at Trooping the Colour in June and the Men’s Singles Final at Wimbledon a month later. Kensington Palace has not set a date for her to return to royal duties, as Kate revealed in June that while she continues to undergo chemotherapy she has “good days and bad days”. But she wants to make the most of feeling well and endeavours to attend events over the coming months if she feels able to. One such event is attending the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, as a source close to the princess reveals she is keen to travel across the Channel to watch some of the action. “The Princess would love to go to the Olympics," they said. "She has such fond memories of London 2012 and is keen to go to another Games while it's so close to home.” The newly-wed couple were regular faces at the home Games, as they were jubilant when Chris Hoy secured his sixth Olympic gold at the velodrome and also enjoyed watching the tennis, hockey, swimming, athletics, gymnastics and football. But the insider was keen to stress that no decision has yet been made as Kate’s attendance is conditional on her health and whether her doctors give her the go-ahead. This mirrors the approach taken when the Princess attended the Wimbledon men’s final last month, as aides only confirmed her appearance the day before. Prince William is expected to travel to France to watch some of the Games next week, and as his children are currently enjoying their summer holidays its likely that their two eldest, Prince George, 11, and Princess Charlotte, nine, will join him.

Yes, it's not confirmed at this point (02 August 2024) that Kate will attend the Olympics, and, yes, this is published by a UK tabloid. However, the effects are just the same.

It doesn't matter if it doesn't pan out, and she doesn't attend. The perception of her right now is that she would do something like this, even though she is allegedly being treated for cancer.

Did you know that there is a subreddit called "KateMiddletonMissing"? It has 7,400 members currently, which is undoubtedly a larger number than the surviving Wales "fandom" on tumblr. Numbers that will likely increase over the coming weeks and months while Kate hides from the public. There is a thread discussing this rumor of Kate attending the Paris Olympics, and people aren't buying what Kensington Palace and Kate are selling, even if she has no actual plans to attend.

And what is the top comment in this thread?

"I don’t believe she ever had cancer"

That's the top comment. That's the perception of Kate among people who follow British royals enough to join a subreddit but are not blind followers of the drivel coming out of the Kensington Palace comms team.

And take photos of all the family frolicking on the beach jumping 8 foot over spiky plants. But too ill to partake in any cancer charity work. Hmm 🤔

I'm kind of hoping the French play Gojira's song about Marie Antoinette on the big screen while Kate and/or William is at the Olympics. They're really shameless to claim abdominal surgery in January to skip work until Easter, but then changed it to cancer when things got heated. Now they're playing the cancer card, cherry-picking glamour events, and putting it down as 'work'. Instead of helping cancer patients and creating awareness about testing and getting symptoms checked, Kate has only showed up at the Trooping, the Wimbledon men's final, and now possibly another men's tennis match featuring Andy Murray. These are not decent people.

She's crap like the rest of them. You'll never convince me she ever had cancer.

This is absolutely bonkers. No one cares about the optics of this, which is wild to me. Is the, "They're Diana's boys, such a tragedy," well of sympathy and sycophants ever going to run dry??? Kate being adjacent to this and a direct recipient of it.

Watching tennis on the royal box, sunbathing in mustique and not giving a ficking damn about not working for anything is a well known treatment for cancer.

My opinion only. Kate is totally complicit in all of this. I don't see how she's under duress or in any way being forced to tell the world she has/had cancer. She shows up at two major events looking fully healthy and smiling. Quite a contrast from the "bench video" where she looked pale and spoke in a somber tone. I believe that was also the one and only time that she has said anything about others having cancer. It just doesn't look good at all and seems disrespectful to those struggling with cancer.

Even in the much larger RoyalsGossip subreddit, which forbids any speculation on Kate's "health condition," has comments in disbelief about Kate's "cancer diagnosis."

Impressive that her medical team is okay with her attending crowded sporting events during treatment but recording a short Zoom video for a patronage is too much to handle

And especially now that there’s a spike in Covid cases. I know sick people who are not allowed to go to crowded places.

Interesting that's she is well enough to travel to Paris but not to do zoom calls eith her patronages? Or support her charitable endeavors? What about the First Five Years?

They don't call her "Duchess Do Little" for nothing

So she still can’t do any real work but can attend men’s sporting events. We see you Kate

It's really only the Wales fandom who buys the "health condition" excuse about Kate coming out of Kensington Palace.

Oh, yes Charles and Camilla "are wearing down the monarchy." LOL!

Charles and Camilla are doing their actual jobs while William is on vacation all the time.

Just more proof that the Wales fandom lives in their own Disney-esque Puritan bubble where Charles & Camilla are terrible because their first marriages didn't work out. Except even Camilla has done more work than William ever has as a working royal.

Except actual Brits (instead of fawning twenty-somethings in Latin America) believe William is the one "wearing down the monarchy."

Because more and more people are not buying the story Will & Kate have been telling people about themselves.

Most people with functioning brains outside the Wales fandom can see through Will & Kate's problematic behavior.

Looks like the shit is going to hit the fan regarding Will & Kate's reputations later this month.

Can't wait.

[lixenn]

BUSTING INTO UR ASKBOX WHILE READING THRU DAVE'S PROFILE!! Lix!! Dave and Yui's bdays are one day apart sjvfhsvfsvf this coincidence is so funny 🤣🤣

Since he likes sunsets, I wonder if he likes the sea too? The sunsets are very beautiful when viewing it from the beach (asked by someone who just got back from a trip to the beach)

Because he has a lot of piercings, I wonder if he's interested in getting tattoo too?

Not a question, but reading this --- Dave simply turned up at Varia’s front door with a cheerful: “Heard you were hiring?” --- made me laugh, because I remember the snippet that you wrote about how Dan met Dave and it still makes me laugh a lot 😆😆 (PLUS !!! “I can use this guy to avoid talking to people!” DAN IS SO REAL FOR THIS!!! HE'S SO BASED UR HONOR!!)

Is there any latest hot boiling tea that Davey-boy can share with us in the class right now?

Mammon knows a lot about people huh. I wonder what Dave's relationship with Mammon is like? How does Dave interact with Mammon, knowing (if he knows) that Mammon knows background info that he hides?

Would he dye his hair as rainbow-colored for Pride Month---

EIN! BELOVED! Thank you for visiting my humble abode, always lovely to have you here 💕✨

I have managed to get this ready for Dave's birthday!

Happy birthday Davey-boy! Hope you and everyone else likes some more Dave info hehehehe

Sunset and sea

As someone whose life has been grey and dull for a long time, Dave adors colours in all shape or form, so yes he loves the sea, loves how it can glitter and reflect. The different shades of blue also appeal to him. Just colours my friend. It's a small joy for him but a joy nonetheless.

Tattoos

Is Dave interested in tattoos? Yes. Does he trust anyone enough to actually give him one? Not really. Dave has done most of his piercings by himself (which Davey-boy... no...) but tattooing himself is certainly more difficult then simply stabbing a sanitised needle through his ear. He loves the idea of body art though and he keeps drawing tattoo ideas on his paperwork (much to Chief's chargin).

Also since we are at the topic of tattoos, I'm just going to sneakily mention this for the people who aren't in the discord or haven't read my Chief/Squalo sparring snippet:

Chief has tattoos! And he actually has a lot of ink. All of it is nature based and all of it is hidden under his clothing, so at the moment in the Varia only Luss (who is his doctor) and Mammon (because Mammon knows all) know about the tats. Dave is in for a surprise when he finds out hehe. (Dave already thinks that Chief is super cool, but now he has tattoos??? No fair~ He will need to increase his mischief factor by one hundred to balance it out.)

Dan the introvert

Dan knows what's up lol. While Dani-boy can talk to people when necessary he tries to avoid it as much as possible because it sucks his energy like nothing else and he already doesn't have much energy to begin with. Also Dan might be quite observant but he sometimes doesn't get subtext and takes sometimes a bit to literal, which can lead to much frustration and hilarity. So he prefers leaving the people thing to Dave who's a social butterfly and thrives under attention.

Mammon and Dave

Dave doesn't like Mammon, at all. Honestly, it's more fear than dislike that's bothering him, because Dave knows how much power information can hold, it's one of his specialites after all. So while Dave is aware that Mammon won't reveal anything about his past unless someone goes looking for it and is willing to pay an obscene amount of money for the info, he still treats Mammon with a healthy dose of respect. He actually tries his best to avoid dealing with him and Mammon is one of the few people he tries not to prank directly.

Rainbow hair

Dave would definitely dye his hair rainbow coloured for pride month. He would burst into Luss' room on the first of June (probably when the clock rings midnight lol) and demand that his hair needs to be taken care of now.

The Tea

Now, the tea is the reason why answering this took so long, because dear Ein, once again, I have written a snippet! Rejoice! (Thanks so much to @unwrathful @childe-of-saulot for helping me brainstorm and also thanks to my dear buddy @myrmyrtheorca for solving my naming problems 🫡💕✨)

---

Dave kicks Vlasta's door open with cheerful aplomb. "Have you heard?!"

His friend doesn’t even have the decency to look up from cleaning their knives at his fabulous entrance. "You violating my privacy? Sure did."

"Like you even know the definition of that word. You were literally fucking someone in bright daylight yesterday."

"It's the principle of the matter, D." They finally put away their collection of all things sharp and pointy just to grace him with a simple blink. “Now, what’s the tea and where the hell are the snacks?”

A grin creeps on his face as he presents the chocolate covered strawberries he stole from the kitchen like they are a tribute to the gods. “I came prepared.”

The offering is scrutinized for a moment before Vlasta nods in acceptance. “You pass, but you are on thin ice.”

Dave fully skips into their domain and is greeted with the full force of the tantalizing scent of plum and cherry hiding the metallic taint of blood that has etched itself into the foundation of the walls ever since Vlasta claimed this room as their own. He places the strawberries on the nightstand next to the candles and bones, then bounces onto the four-poster bed that wouldn’t have been out of place in a film set of a dark historical drama which features witches, blood sacrifices and ritual sex. The dark red satin sheets flow smooth and cool over his skin, a stark contrast from the humid summer heat.

Dave hums lazily. “You always had great taste in decor. Less so with your partners though.”

His words are met with a pointed kick to the ribs. “Fucking- OW! What was that for?” He quickly scoots out of kicking range, rubbing the sore spot on his side. “This is abuse! Mistreatment! Bullying!”

“Talk shit, get shot,” Vlasta smirks, plucking a strawberry from the container. “Count yourself lucky that I put my knives away or this could have ended in a bloodbath.”

“But you like bloodbaths!”

“Not on my good bedsheets, idiot.” Vlasta plops the fruit into their mouth and moans in a way that would turn a porn star green with envy. “Now spill the tea before the day’s over. Chop chop.”

Dave brightens. “Okay, so I was staking out make out closet, as one does.” Vlasta nods along like this is a reasonable way to spend one’s free time. There’s a reason why they are best friends. “And guess who walked out of there?

Vlasta indulges his theatrics. “Who?”

“Sofia!”

“Sofia Nardi?” His friend tilts their head like a curious bird. “Douchbag’s girlfriend Sofia? That Sofia?“

“Yup! And she wasn’t alone.” Dave waggles his eyebrows suggestively. “Ollie followed soon after.”

Vlasta perks up, finally gifting him the entire weight of their attention and he basks in it. Yes, he always has the best gossip, thank you very much.

Another strawberry disappears between black tainted lips. “Sofia and ol’ Ollie. They fucked?“

“Oh, totally.”

“Huh,” a slow blink, followed by a sadistic smile, “good for her. Does the Douchebag know?“

“Nope,” Dave answers, popping the p for maximum obnoxious effect. “Completely in the dark”

The smile turns into a full-blown smirk. “Excellent.”

Dave‘s expression mimics the grin on his best friend’s face, vindictiveness filling him by proxy.  Sofia’s (ex?) boyfriend Alberico Ordelaffi commonly known as the Douchebag is what one could call a traditionalist. In short: he’s strictly religious, massively sexist and completely full of himself. The only time he stops sucking his own cock is when he’s bragging about his prestigious lineage or insulting your lack thereof. Vlasta with all their… Vlastaness is naturally offending Douchebag’s delicate sensibilities which results in a largely one-sided rivalry that involves a lot of holy water and failed exorcisms. So, any misfortune falling upon him needs to be fully savoured and sampled.

Speaking of savouring, Vlasta already decimated the strawberry offering during his retelling leaving nothing left for him which ... yeah, that tracks. But he still wanted a taste! His friend can be so stingy sometimes.

Well, there are other ways to be fed...

“Now,” Dave risks edging a tiny bit closer to them. “Since I delivered you both juicy strawberries and gossip, I deserve a reward, yes?”

Vlasta doesn’t even hesitate in shooting him down. “I’m not telling you what Chief and I discuss when we’re alone.”

“Oh c’mon! What more could you possibly want?”

The stare he is given runs shivers down his spine. Vlasta has a way of looking right into your soul, dissecting you with a simple gaze. People often fear them because of their appearance, their fondness of blood and flesh but Dave fears their ability to stand back and watch far more. They pick up the smallest of hints that let’s them solve humans like puzzles and the only reason why Dave ever let them close is because he can recognize his people, see the same cracks that plague him day in and day out. It doesn’t change the fact that he’d prefer not being perceived and now he gave them an opening.

“Well, my dear friend.” Their voice was raspy, a near seductive purr. “How about your name?”

Dave freezes. Nobody asks after his name. The scars are questioned more often than he could count. Same for his family and body count. But his name? Nobody bothers asking after names in the Varia. Not with how the organisation collects weirdos like the most fucked up circus. You might snoop behind somebody’s back, but you don’t talk about it in person. It just wasn’t done.

Leave it to Vlasta to not give a single fuck about etiquette and social norms.

Dave sighs. “I’d rather not.”

The predatory aura persists for one more second until his friend simply shrugs like they were asking after the weather rather than one of his close kept secrets. “Shame. Names hold a lot of power. But no name, no deal, Davey-boy. Them’s the rules.”

The mood brightens considerably at the nickname. Teasing and banter, he can do. Way better than digging up pieces of his past best left forgotten.

Time to turn the brattiness to the max.

“But I wanna knoooow.” Dave gives them his best rendition of a kicked puppy.  “How can you just hoard the Chief insider info? The inhumanity! The cruelty!” He adds crocodile tears for dramatic effect. “Share the goods, V. I need all the dets. Well actually, I need to study Chief under a microscope, but I will accept second hand knowledge for now.”

Unsurprisingly, Vlasta isn’t moved by his act in the slightest, in fact they don’t budge an inch. "Your obsession with our boss is fascinating. Have you considered fucking him to get it out of your system?”

He pouts: "I offered! Well, Luss and I offered but he refused."

"Skill issue."

"Oh fuck off, how often did he reject you? Five times? Six?" He leans into Vlasta’s personal space, leering and teasingly poking their cheek. “Losing your touch V?”

“You’re about to lose a finger if you don’t remove it from my person, dickhead.” Their eyes gleam red and Dave immediately backs off.

Fuck. Pushed too much.

Touch and Vlasta can be ... tricky at times. Initiating contact always involves some risk. It's like a gamble where the odds change at a whim and clearly Dave lost this time around.

He scrambles off the bed, holding his hands up in surrender. He tries for a smile but it came out as an awkward grimace instead. "Sorry 'bout that."

The red in their eyes dims but doesn't disappear. Vlasta nods, accepting the apology but not stating forgiveness.

Yeah, this calls for a strategic retreat.

He tiptoes closer and closer to the door. "I'll see you around?" The confidence leaves him at the last minute turning his statement into a question.

Vlasta licks off the chocolate on one of their fingers, steadily holding eye contact because they are a fucking weirdo. "Until next time."

Oh, thank god. Friendship saved.

---

Ngl not totally satisfied with the ending but it will do >.< this got so long and surprisingly deep but I like how it protrays Dave's and Vlasta's realtionship.

[lizaluvsthis]

I feel like they're doing a lot of episodes centered around 3 and 4's relationship as of recently, like almost every episode ever since WOTFI 2023 has in some way been about 3 and 4 in some way, they're definitely cooking up something...

Would be weird to be doing a lot of episodes cented around one of the protagonists and a tritagonist's relationship without a reason...

Yes I've noticed that, it's why I randomly show up in a constance of space to ramble about these ga- i mean- 'friends.'

Ive had me suspicions on randomly show ups with SMG3 because it is never unlikely we get this much of episodes with SMG3 in it. I feel like something would go wrong about Three's most appearnce as a tritagonist role from his character.

I'm aware of what would have the consequences to happen in the future, once he gets involved with the Adware themself. Either be possessed. Either d-e. We're not sure about this because when we mostly used the Axol theory who existed in the seasons and d-ed.

The protagonist which is Melony, were his loving partner who were to suffer the most from grief. Besides me mentioning them. I really do feel like they are trying to hint something that SMG3 will be a more focused main character in the series.

We never know when the arc will happen soon. But just for me to say, I noticed not a while back is that. Back before the new designs or even wotfi 2022. Lets get to the older episodes where SMG3 specifically appears around the episodes which as the months of March, October, or even Jul- June? Was it?

We're both not sure about this because with the new episodes been released that included smg3. It seems to me that they've broken the schedule whenever smg3 gets to be in a month where he is in other episodes. But the new ones could be making us think harder with it.

It wouldn't be weird for me to call but too "skeptical" for me that they'd release a season filled with SMG3 dump from other episodes in everywhere.

I doubt that they're only putting this so that the tritagonist can get some attention from the fans. When he'd already been considerately part of the SMG4 Crew members.

He'd play as a focused one because why the hell not? This is SMG3 and SMG4 we're talking about and there is no denying that they will both end up in something important.

Like any other with Axol and Melony's Bond.

Because it's more different with these two. They both have a slow form of chemistry during the years. And therefore is slowly having to form into something else.

Call me crazy or insane one last time or again and again, but I'll have to put on.

"SMG3 is being put in the episodes because he'll be more of a valuable person to appear mostly in the near upcoming 'strange' event."

Even if he were to call as a villain, he is still a tritagonist. He is there with his boy- i mean- FRIEND. To be there with. To return a favor. And have something that he's hiding to yet reveal.

But with his insignificant torture with people, his line never ends when he kept calling SMG4 "Baka" in the other episodes there-has-been.

SMG3 can never go back because he's already there, his appearance meant everything from the entire fanbase/community.

Because everyone here is now making these bunch of unexplained theories where it can have the possibilities for him to di- i mean- possessed. Or something angsty would happen in the further future.

But we'll never know that in a certain fact.

Unless it'd be more serious...

[witchofthesouls]

No cause wait, thinking about it.

It adds a whole new layer as to her not wanting the kids involved in this cybertronian mess. She was a child who was involved in things greater then her when she was too young for that. Sure they are good guardians but like her she was always at the risk of death when dealing with them.

And if this is following the idea of June pursuing the neutral path as a child it would carry so many added layers. Her having to hurt king asgore and living with that guilt, her choice of whether or not she let flowey live, how she both misses them but knows it's safer to be buried in the past. AND JUST. When it all comes rearing back she tries so hard to keep Jack safe but he's too much like her.

I need you to expand on this idea PLEASE cause the possibilities is so insane.

Yep.

My mind was reeling because imagine all the paths it could have been?

Imagine if all the paths were true?!

Yes, there's the Neutral path where it's just a single run where June manages to escape that life and buries it with regrets following her.

But since Determination has a time loop ability, save, and restart, what if Frisk went through other timelines? I'm thinking that this Frisk hasn't reached the SOULLESS routes from either Sans killing them or their own decisions to constantly restart. How many aborted Genocide or Pacifist Routes?

The only reason why June came to be was because "the man who speaks in hands" had shown her a different Route. A never explored one...

A new world where monsters were just stories or humans that Frisk was unfortunately experienced with.

Sometimes, Frisk had wondered if it was an unending nightmare from childhood, but the bone deep sharpness when they see a specific shade of blue or the homesickness for gingerbread and spaghetti is too visceral.

(Or how a skeleton's features tended to warp out of the corner of their eyes, dripping with new shadows.)

If Frisk left it behind with no way back, then they might as well lay their old identity to rest.

June would have a unique insight into Optimus in a way. Particularly on how he wants to save a Megatron that doesn't want to be saved. (A small part of that old child still wants to go back to save Flowey.) And how she isn't too worried about things that should be troublesome for others...

In return, Optimus is concerned about June as they start gravitating to each other as June begins to hang around the Autobot base. He has a strange sense of dissonance with how Jack was reared by someone with a somewhat nihilistic yet hopeful worldview: "Nothing truly matters in life. Not really. Just how many routes had happened without our awareness. How many decisions can alter us, and yet some things are just set in stone. The only tipping point is how determined you are to continue."

June raised Jack to have a better sense of himself and to be more conscious about the weight of his actions. After all, in some Routes, she chose her curiosity over morals and balked at all the destruction she nearly wrought at the end. LOVE and sins can not be washed away so easily. The memory still lingers in her soul.