#anyway i won't hate this if it ends up being a stand alone chapter

[north-noire]

My Michael Afton throughout the years! ft. his own little doodles. I'll try to be brief about the timeline and how my Michael was without saying too much since it'll be explored in the Hidden Hands AU fic's chapters anyway so I won't say all the details. Feel free to read if you guys like! I have a lot to say about him.

1983 (FNAF 4) - Michael was 12 or 13-ish when the Bite happened. Very reckless yet adventurous kid. Didn't really hate Evan (William, as much as he had a soft spot for Evan, still loved Michael all the same), just had really bad friends and influence (his friends were mostly bullies) - and didn't really like that he's being told to parent a little brother he had no idea how to take care of. It didn't help that Evan tended to be a tattle-tail sometimes about the trouble he was getting into. Michael also, deep down, got scared of what the bullies would do to him if he dared stand up for his brother or spoke out against them, so he ends up going along with what they did for his own sake. After the Bite, Michael was still deeply guilty about what he did to Evan, and it haunts him every night, knowing he had no good excuse but irresponsibility for what he did to his brother, because after all, it wasn't like William wasn't giving him enough attention. Michael just knew that he deserved anything unfortunate coming to him, but is genuinely surprised that his father kept telling him he loved him all the same. From this point on, he becomes easily troubled, tends to stay close to his dad. Makes sure he follows the rules and doesn't do trouble. Just wants to do a complete personality shift, and is deeply ashamed of who he was before. 1985 (Charlie's death, Fredbear's Family Diner shuts down) - Michael was 15 here. Over the years, he slowly isolated himself from most of the people in his life since he gets worried about his past scars coming back to haunt him. Mostly a recluse and reserved. He's not handling things well after Charlie's death and a family divorce - not to mention the non-existent social life he had. Just prefers to be left alone, but he's nice if you get to know him. Doesn't really have a good relationship with Elizabeth, but is actually pretty close with William. Feels extremely guilty and hates himself/blames himself for Charlie's death. He gets paranoid easily, as he thinks whoever took Charlie is now after him, but his father tells him to not worry too much about it. 1987 (FNAF 2) - (17) Slowly having a good relationship with Elizabeth. Starts to get into stuff like the supernatural and becomes superstitious to a degree over the years. In public, he's mostly polite and nice, but his actual personality shows through whenever he's with his father or Elizabeth - he's sarcastic, and has quite a dark sense of humor, can be a bit of a rebel, he's just more subtle about it. A bit of an over-thinker - he gets lost in his imagination/head easily. Has a (surprisingly) good relationship with his dad, as he's not really afraid to be himself around him - sometimes gifts him funny things or something he knows his dad would love/would use (he gifts William a rabbit's foot - for good luck, he says). He also helped William build the Fun-Times with blueprints and other technicalities (He's not really aware of the questionable features they had, unfortunately). He couldn't really come with his father and Elizabeth on Circus Baby's Pizza World opening due to things he had to catch up with his home-schooling, he had been skipping classes to work on the Fun-Times, but he really wanted to graduate highschool with a bang, so he's giving everything his all, here. Then Elizabeth suddenly goes missing all of a sudden, and, well... I would say more, but my fic sort of takes a canon-divergence route around FNAF 2/SL-FNAF 1 so that would spoil half of the stuff I've been working/writing about! Reference-sheet wise, I just wanted to show how he progresses from a rebellious, happy and adventurous kid into a more reclused, anxious and soft-spoken adult. Sorry for the long post! I've just been wanting to talk about him for some time now. There's a looot more that I've left out but yeah that's because there will be more in the fic!

[charlie-pippin-faraday]

my danganronpa v3 chapter 3 investigation and trial running commentary:

would it be too obvious to predict that kiyo killed angie? because it seems like there was a ritual involved, and he's the ritual guy. and he wouldn't shut up about the resurrection ritual angie wanted to do being like an offense to proper rituals or whatever

you know people have been saying "yeah they're definitely dead, positive, i watched them die" so many times i'm starting to get suspicious

the instant kiyo was like "the spirit medium should be a girl" i knew it was gonna be tenko, and i had the immediate thought of "she's about to die, isn't she?" which only grew stronger as she was saying all that uplifting stuff to himiko

"alright himiko i'll see you later!" i have the sinking feeling you won't

"i'll see you all after the seance!" no you won't, tenko

this singing strongly reminds me of being in church lol. no tune, rhythm, or pitch, everyone's singing terribly, it's barely more than a chant lol

there was a huge obvious thunk in the middle of our song and we just kept singing?? lol okay

kiyo looking at tenko surrounded by a pool of her own blood: "something is amiss." yeah ya think???

tbh i expected there to be a double murder at some point. there was one in each of the previous two games (both in chapter 3, if i recall correctly), so this isn't a surprise

even though i 100% saw it coming, i'm a little bummed it was tenko. i fucking HATED her at the start but she was really growing on me

however, i DID predict that all of the girlies would end up dead, and they took out 2 of the 3 of them in one fell swoop

lmao maki you can call kaito stupid as much as you want, but i see through your ruse. i too was once an angry, brash teenage girl. i know that "he's so stupid i can't stand him" is teenage girl code for "i want him so bad i don't know how to handle it." and like, someone treating her kindly, including her in the group constantly, and believing in her on blind faith alone has got to be out of the norm for her, i get why he gets her so bent out of shape lol

she really did punch him super hard in the mouth tho lol

i miss having kaito around, my buddy my partner in crime. was really missing him the latter half of this chapter

but he's with me at all times in spirit, now that i have the kaito monopad theme! it's like i stuck up a picture of him in my locker, that's what that feels like. he's always there, cheering me on, inspiring me. a constant reminder...of Him

now, as for this case, i do not have nearly as clear of an idea of what happened or who's guilty. i'm definitely more confused than last time. last time i knew basically how the murder happened. this one i'm stumped, on both murders. there's so much that doesn't make sense, idk how it happened. OR who did it. my only hunch is that i think it could be kiyo? but that feels like too simple an answer just because of all the occult stuff and i have no clue why he would do that

"i believe that inner voice will lead me to hope as long as i listen to it" keebo you don't happen to hear the voice of makoto naegi in your head, do you?

LMAOOOO @ kokichi and miu going back and forth about "cum dumpster" and gonta just being like ".......anyway what should we talk about now?"

the taxi game should just be called "reckless driving: the minigame"

"soul bro"????????? kazuichi soda is that you?????

"as a self-proclaimed expert of stepping through floorboards" i'm glad kokichi can make fun of himself as well as others

i mean once they said the loose floorboard was inside the magic circle, the magic circle that kiyo drew and that kiyo told us not to step on, in order to perform the seance that kiyo put together and convinced us to perform........the answer there felt kind of obvious

kiyo was acting very sus the whole trial, trying very hard to pin the blame on himiko

the very unhinged nervous laughter gave it away tbh

is miu saying that she makes keebo look at her shit everyday? also, why go through all that? wouldn't a camera be easier?

why is everyone bullying keebo PLEASE stop

i would just like to say, sincerely, from the bottom of my heart: what the FUCK, kiyo

i didn't expect this game to include an incestuous serial killer, yet here we are

"i nearly went mad" you know what my dude i think you can cut out the word "nearly"

"all the girls here are worthy except maki and miu" hey shut the fuck up, those are my two favorite girls!!!!

"i have finished my explanation to you, friends" we're not friends

"i'll watch over you as a ghost! as your friend, i'll watch over you!" please don't. and once again we're not friends

now i know why i couldn't figure out what happened in these murders or why they occurred - it's because kiyo is INSANE and just did murders for funsies

"i'll put in the effort until everyone trusts me" i see that kaito finally got through to maki

she's still annoying but i'm glad to see that himiko finally grew a bit of a backbone and fought back. and it's heartening to see tenko inspire her, maybe she'll be more interesting as the rest of this game progresses

i do feel bad for her tho, they cruelly took out both prongs of her love triangle at once. she wailed about being alone now, which is sad, but i sure hope she doesn't come to ME for comfort or friendship; despite these developments i'm still not interested in hanging out with her

i thought he was gonna end up annoying me endlessly, but kokichi has become very fascinating. what's your motive, my dude? why do you do the things you do? what's your endgame? i don't understand you and i'm never hanging out with you, but i'm curious

gonta carrying himiko on his back is actually the sweetest thing

bro holdup is kaito dying??????? no no no!!!!!! i need more information IMMEDIATELY!

oh great, i get kiyo's mask as a present, exactly what i wanted

on to chapter 4!

[mimisempai]

The end of loneliness 2/7

Chapter Summary

Professor Crowley finds it hard to concentrate on his lessons after spending the night with Aziraphale. Even if it was just a one-night stand, he can't stop thinking about his one-night lover. 

So much so that he imagines all sorts of solutions to find Aziraphale.

But fate sometimes has surprises in store...

Notes

👀👀👀👀

On Ao3

Rating G - 3322 words

Masterpost here

As soon as he entered the coffee shop, Aziraphale saw Muriel sitting at a table in the back, waving their arms to let him know they were there.

He went to the counter to order his breakfast, and when he had it, he joined them.

Once he was near them, he said softly as he sat down in front of them, "Good morning, Muriel.

"Hi Zira!"

He couldn't help but smile in amusement at the diminutive name his new friend had given him. 

When he'd introduced himself during their first Modern Literature class together, Muriel had said bluntly, "Well, I'm going to call you Zira, if that's okay with you, of course, because Aziraphale, while lovely, is way toooooooo long!"

Aziraphale had immediately agreed, because even though he didn't hate his name, well, not really, sometimes he felt it like a shackle fastened to his foot.

"Aziraphale, my boy, you bear the name of an angel, so you must act like one. You must prevent evil from tarnishing you and stay pure. If you don't, hell awaits you."

For a long time, Aziraphale had done everything in his power to conform to the rules laid down by his mother and her church. To live up to his name. To be the perfect angel. Until one day he opened his eyes and realized that the principles he had to follow were making him hate a part of himself, and worse, they were making him hate himself.

"So have you been to Serenity?"

Muriel's voice snapped him out of his thoughts, and he couldn't help but chuckle as he saw them so excited they couldn't even sit down.

Smiling mischievously, he simply replied, "Yes, I was there."

Muriel, seeing that he had no intention of saying more, sighed. 

"I won't have to worm it out of you, will I?

Aziraphale only replied with a smile.

Muriel took a sip of their coffee, then clapped their hands after putting down their cup before saying, "Okay, so you were at Serenity last night, and when I called you this morning, you weren't alone.  Does that mean you met someone there?"

Aziraphale nodded and again answered simply, "Yes."

His friend insisted, "And what were they like?"

Aziraphale replied, "He was..." 

Then he paused, realizing that in all the things he'd revealed to Muriel, he'd never mentioned his preferences. 

But he'd decided not to hide anymore, so he continued, "He was very nice.

Muriel replied, "So?"

Seeing his friend's reaction, or rather non-reaction, Aziraphale breathed a small sigh of relief that Muriel, being perceptive, didn't miss. 

Aziraphale's friend placed a hand on his arm and said gently, "It's all right, Zira, after our first conversation, when you opened up to me about what brought you here, I more or less guessed where your interest lay. And even so, I wouldn't have been surprised or even shocked. We love who we love, we are who we are. As for me, I love you very much and I am very proud of you.

Aziraphale couldn't hold back a small gasp as it was the first time anyone had known and approved of who he was. Much more moved than he could express, he simply nodded. Muriel squeezed his arm gently before continuing in a lighter tone, "Don't think we're changing the subject. I want to know more about HIM."

Then, a little more seriously, they added, "I mean, if you don't mind talking to me about it, of course."

Aziraphale, a little embarrassed but encouraged by his friend's sincerity, wanted to confide in them anyway. Leaning forward, he said in a slightly lower voice, "First of all, HE is incredibly handsome, and when I say handsome, it's because I don't have an accurate adjective to describe him. Let's just say he's the stuff dreams are made of."

"Aw..."

Muriel giggled and kicked thei feet under the table as Aziraphale continued to tell them how the evening had gone, at least as far as he could remember. Of course, he didn't go into detail about the night itself, but his blissful expression at the mention of it was enough to give Muriel enough indication that it had been more than pleasant. 

Just as he finished his story, his friend asked, "And will you see him again?"

Aziraphale's expression was sad as he shook his head before answering.

"No, it was just a one night stand."

"Oh, that's too bad." 

Muriel gave him a little kick under the table and added, "But you told me he was a regular at Serenity, so who knows? Maybe if you go back, what's a one-night stand could turn into more?"

Aziraphale shook his head and replied, "I don't know. Last night was easy, we both knew what we wanted. At least I know what he wanted. It was clearly just a one-night stand to stave off loneliness. So trying to get more, I don't know. I don't think he's interested. Honestly, we're not in the same league at all. What would a guy like him want with someone like me?"

Muriel gave him another kick under the table, this time much stronger.

"Ouch! What's the matter with you?"

Muriel pointed a finger at him and said in a scolding tone, "You're going to stop talking bad about yourself right now. I've only known you for a short time, and I can already tell that you're an extraordinary person. You're adorable and very kind. You said you wanted to turn your back on your past, so I think you really need to forget everything you've been told. I don't know this guy, but I know that whoever he is, you are worthy of him. Because you're you."

Aziraphale, again speechless and moved by the way Muriel spoke of him, thought for a few moments in silence before replying, "I don't know, Muriel. In any case, I've had a good time tonight, and that's more than I could have asked for. As for the rest, we'll see."

He emptied his cup and grabbed his bag.

"We have to go, classes start soon."

Muriel just nodded and told him gently as they followed him, "Just don't close a door that's just been opened."

**********

A ringing jolted Anthony awake and he wondered for a few seconds where he was. As he fumbled for his phone, memories began to come back to him.

"Crowley, are you awake? I just need to know your schedule for the classroom occupation."

It was Nina, a colleague and friend. 

Shaking off the fog of sleep, he replied, "Morning... yes, the schedule is ready."

"With the class list?"

"Yes, with the list.... Yes, it is. See you later. "

"See you!"

Anthony put his phone back on the nightstand and sat up in bed before turning to face the most adorable sight imaginable.

The man he'd just spent the night with was standing in front of him, blushing, hiding part of his anatomy with his clothes and looking everywhere but at Anthony.

In a hesitant voice he said, "Ahem.... uh... Good morning... uh."

Realizing that his one-night lover didn't know his first name, he chuckled slightly and replied, "Anthony.

"Well, uh... Good morning, Anthony."

"Good morning...? I don't think you told me your name either. "

"It's... Aziraphale."

"I've never heard of that name, but it's really nice. It suits you anyway. So, Aziraphale, did you sleep well?"

The other man blushed adorably at the compliment and nodded before turning away, seemingly searching for something. When Anthony was confronted with the second most beautiful sight imaginable, he realized what the other man must be looking for and after looking around, called out, "Aziraphale?

Aziraphale turned sharply.

"Yes?"

"I think I found what you're looking for."

Anthony reached for the boxers he'd just seen on his side of the bed and held them out to the other man. Aziraphale took them, blushing, but Anthony couldn't help but hold them back as he said, "I didn't see them last night in the dim light, but... really? Tartan?"

He realized he'd cut Azirapale to the quick when he snatched the garment out of Anthony's hand and replied, "Tartan is stylish."

Anthony, not wanting them to part with the wrong impression, crept up behind Aziraphale and, placing a hand on his shoulder, said gently, "Hey, I wasn't mocking you. In fact, I think it's kind of sweet."

What Anthony realized was true. In fact, everything about his one-night stand was sweet. He shook his head and stood up.

"I'm going to go freshen up in the bathroom." 

When he came out a few moments later and saw that the other man was almost finished getting dressed, he couldn't resist his instinct and spontaneously asked, "Would you like some breakfast?"

Sadly, he saw the other man shake his head and Anthony felt the need to justify himself, "Maybe it was a strange thing to ask. I... one-night stands aren't my habit, so I don't really know the rules. Sorry."

"Well, as you know, it's not my habit either. So I don't know any more than you do, and I don't know if it's strange to ask. But if I say no, it's because I promised a friend that I would meet them for breakfast."

Anthony, a little disappointed, nodded before saying as he approached, "Well... uh, Aziraphale, that was... that was nice."

What an idiot, it was more than nice. It was the best night he'd had since... he didn't want to think about it.

"Yes, it, uh, it was. Thank you."

Anthony shook his head. 

"I'm the one thanking you."

They exchanged an awkward smile, then Aziraphale held out his hand.

"Goodbye, Anthony."

"Goodbye, Aziraphale. Take care."

Then Anthony watched his one-night lover walk toward the door, and the sound of it closing made him realize it was all over.

"Professor? Professor Crowley?"

The voice of one of his students snapped him out of his thoughts.

"Yes?"

"Class is over, can we go to our next class?"

Anthony coughed before answering, "Yes. Let me give you your homework for the next class," then turned to the blackboard to hide his blush before continuing to write instructions on the board.

"Don't forget the commentary due to me by the end of the month, and I want you to have answered these three questions for the next class."

He waited until all of his students had left the room before he fell back in his chair and sighed. It was no less than three times that his students had caught him lost in thought, and twice in the same class. What's more, it was only his third lesson this morning.

The problem was that he couldn't get Aziraphale, the man he'd met the day before, out of his mind. 

He'd thought several times about having a one-night stand to stave off loneliness, but each time something had held him back, a remnant of attachment, the feeling of betraying his lost wife, even though it had been four years.

Then, yesterday, Aziraphale entered the bar and Anthony was immediately drawn to him. He didn't know if it was the other man's aura of innocence, the fact that he didn't look like the usual customers, or simply the same loneliness he had seen in Aziraphale's eyes, but the attraction had been immediate and undeniable.

Aziraphale was so expressive.

Anthony saw his face again and again at different times of the evening and night. 

What a night. 

The innocence, the eagerness of Aziraphale once he'd felt comfortable with Anthony, had been simply intoxicating. 

To say he'd been disappointed when he'd declined Anthony's invitation to breakfast would be an understatement.

Why hadn't he asked for his name? His contact information?

Wait, he'd said he was a student at the university, and Aziraphale wasn't a common first name. Maybe if Anthony did some research...

Anthony laughed to himself. He didn't even know what university the other man was attending.

But since Aziraphale knew that Anthony was a regular at Serenity, maybe he'd come back. But what if he came back looking for another one-night stand? Anthony didn't like the feeling of jealousy that washed over him at that moment. 

He laughed at himself again. How could someone be so jealous about someone he didn't know.

Though they did know each other. Anthony had told Aziraphale more than he had told his closest friends in the four years since his wife's death, and it seemed to him that the other man had revealed a lot about himself that he hadn't told anyone.

"Professor, may we come in?"

Once again pulled out of his thoughts by his students, Anthony motioned them in.

Then he shook his head. It was time to focus on what was important. 

His work.

**********

At noon, Aziraphale and Muriel left their classroom together.

"By the way, Aziraphale, I forgot to tell you, I'm going to meet Eric, my boyfriend, who's also on break, so I won't be able to have lunch with you."

But Azirphale's attention was drawn to the conversation between two girls walking ahead of them.

"It was really weird, today I had an advanced astrophysics class and the professor wasn't paying attention at all."

"Who's your professor?"

"That's Professor Crowley."

"Never heard of him."

"But you have, even though you're new, you must have heard of Professor Anthony Crowley! The one all the students are in love with."

"Aaaah you mean the professor I've heard is special with his gorgeous red hair, golden eyes, and he never smiles, which makes him even more mysterious?"

"Yes! That's pretty much it. And that's what's weird, because this morning we saw him smile three or four times in our class and also twice we had to call him because he was lost in thought."

Aziraphale paused.

Anthony, teacher, red hair, golden eyes, that was a lot of coincidence. 

"Hey Zira! Are you listening to me?  I just told you I won't be joining you for lunch."

Azirapahle shook his head, turned to Muriel, and replied, "No worries. Make the best of it. Besides, I'd like you to introduce me to him one day, this boyfriend you're always talking about."

"Yes, I will, don't worry! He wants to meet you too, since I've only talked about you in the three weeks we've known each other."

Muriel patted him on the shoulder.

"I really must go. I'll leave you here, okay?"

Aziraphale nodded and watched in amusement as Muriel took off at their usual lively pace.

He headed for the exit of the establishment, before walking to the usual little corner that he and Muriel had become accustomed to occupying for lunch. It was a bench at the far end of the campus green, shaded by a weeping willow, which made it the perfect spot when the midday sun was shining brightly, as it was today. Not to mention the sense of security this improvised shelter gave Aziraphale, who was still not too used to the crowds of the university and the city.

A few moments later, he sat down on the bench and began to unwrap his sandwich, which he ate while observing the nature around him and the few birds flying nearby.

He had just finished the last bite when he saw a blackbird land on the grass nearby. Without making any sudden movements, Aziraphale took the few crumbs left in the wrapper of his sandwich and threw them not far from the bird, which had not yet flown away.

He watched as the little bird approached the few crumbs fearfully before pecking at them hungrily, casting a few glances at Azirapahle, who didn't move.

When the blackbird left, Aziraphal leaned back against the bench and looked at his watch.

He still had three-quarters of an hour before the next lesson, so he closed his eyes and enjoyed the warm rays of the sun streaming through the leaves of the tree.

*********

Crowley tucked his belongings into his bag and, as soon as the last students had left, he left the classroom to take his lunch break.

For once, he didn't want to be around the hustle and bustle of the university restaurant and decided to find a quiet spot outside to spend his break.

Since he was one of the last to go out, all of his usual spots were either occupied or too exposed to the sun. With a sigh, he made his way to the university's green area.

He was about to despair when he spotted a bench under a willow tree in the distance.

But as he approached, he saw that this bench was also occupied. So much for a quiet break. He sighed again and was about to turn around when he noticed the familiar silhouette of the person sitting on the bench. 

He took a few steps towards the bench and stopped dead in his tracks.

Even from behind.

Even though he'd known him for less than twenty-four hours, there was no way he could have mistaken him.

His one-night stand.

Aziraphale.

He was sitting on a bench a few meters away from him. 

At his university.

Anthony's heart started beating faster.

Go forward?

Walk away?

It was one of those moments when he knew deep down that the decision he was about to make could change the course of his life.

Then he took a few steps forward and whispered, "Aziraphale?"

The other man straightened as if startled awake, looked left and right before turning around.

Anthony first saw the same surprised shock on his face that had been his own, then Aziraphale whispered, "Anthony?"

Anthony joined him and, pointing to the empty seat next to him on the bench, asked, "May I?"

Aziraphale picked up his bag and set it on the other side before nodding.

"Yes, yes, please."

Anthony sat down next to him and for a few moments they remained in silence.

Suddenly they both spoke.

"What are you d-"

"Why are you h-"

Then they both laughed, embarrassed, and Aziraphale motioned for Anthony to speak.

Anthony asked, "What are you doing here? Don't tell me you're a student at this university?"

"Yes, I am a student here."

Then he seemed to catch on and continued, "Oh, you're a professor here?"

Anthony chuckled.

"Of all the serendipities... what classes are you taking?"

"Literature."

Anthony couldn't hold back a sigh of relief under Aziraphale's puzzled gaze. Seeing his expression, he explained, "I'm an astrophysics professor."

Aziraphale didn't lose his puzzled look.

"Why do you look relieved?"

"Well, it would have been complicated. If I'd been your professor."

But what was he talking about? He was talking as if it was a given that they would continue to see each other. Talk about putting the cart before the horse. Anthony tried to correct himself.

"I meant it would have been complicated by the fact that we had a one-night stand. Since I'm not your professor, it won't be a problem."

You are a professor of astrophysics and you look like a babbling idiot. 

Aziraphale, still looking a little confused, replied, "Oh, okay.

Anthony started to unpack his food to avoid Aziraphale's gaze, which he could feel on him, when he heard the other man mumble something he didn't understand.

Intrigued, Anthony looked up to see Azitaphale biting his lips before looking away.

He asked softly, "What did you say? I didn't understand."

Aziraphale, his eyes now downcast, asked, "You mean in the hypothetical case of us having a relationship, it would be no problem because you're not one of my teachers?"

Anthony immediately replied, "No, no problem at all." 

Then he froze, understanding the implication of what the other man had just said, and impulsively asked, "Would you be interested?"

Aziraphale raised his head sharply and asked, "Interested in what?"

Anthony asked in a more measured voice, looking Aziraphalein the eye, "Would you like to go out with me?"

_________

Still not beta'd

Still not my native language

Still hoping you'll enjoy this story  🥰

Still thanking you for bearing with me 😝

Ineffable fan fictions Masterpost : here

[annaphoenix1994]

Ch.76 - Family of Four

Previous Chapter - Masterlist - Next Chapter

More Soap and Simon bickering; Pure fluff; Kiera gets released.

"You sure you don't need an extra set of hands to help, L.T.?" 

"No," Simon sighed, ensuring all of the bags were packed that would be going home with him, double checking to make sure Kiera's after-care bag had everything she needed to help with the healing process. "Already in enough stress as it is." 

No matter how much Simon was annoyed with Soap's pestering, he truly admired how persistent Soap was when it came to being there for Simon. Aside from Kiera, Soap was the only other person Simon could count on when he needed someone to confide to or to get something done. 

When Simon needed help cutting the wood for the crib, Soap would help him. 

Well, Soap eventually pried his way into helping him by picking at him - giving Simon pointers on sanding the wood to refrain from splinters. Simon hated the unnecessary advice but ignored it. 

When Simon had anxiety about Kiera's due date, Soap was there to offer him a shot of whiskey to soothe his nerves, the pair having a glass of bourbon even though Soap hated the burn of Wild Turkey. 

He was stressing immensely on this particular day. Kiera's mother was at a doctor's appointment and today was the day Kiera was cleared to go home after three days in the hospital. She still could barely walk on her own, let alone walk out of the hospital with two babies when she needed a wheelchair to make it to the truck. The time of her discharge was getting closer and closer and the more he thought about it, the worse his anxiety got. He had ended his and Soap's phone call out of haste, pushing his friend's offer to the side as he wanted to be the only one to handle the situation. 

"Are you alright, babe?" Kiera asked, taking notice of his worry. 

"Yes, love. Just ready to go home." He forced a smile. She knows I'm lying. 

"Won't you let Johnny come and help? He's dying to spend more time with you and the babies-"

"I don't need his help right now, love." He huffed. 

"You mean you don't want his help right now. You know you'll need it." 

I wish you'd stop reading my mind, love.

"Fine. Having another set of hands to help get you and these babies out of here will be nice." 

"There we go," She giggled. "Finally getting somewhere. Won't you call him back and tell him you'd like his help?"

"Then that's giving in to his prodding." 

"No, it's not. It's letting him know that you want him around." 

Although there was something else that began to eat at Kiera's mind. She knew Simon welcomed Soap for any other occasion other than spending time with the newborns - a boundary Simon had set immediately with no intention of letting Soap cross it. 

He was jealous. 

Jealous of the thought that Jacob or Evie would prefer Soap over their own father.

She watched him huff as he removed his phone from his pocket, dialing Soap's number and putting on speaker as if he were proving to Kiera that he was calling his comrade. 

"Hello?" 

"You can come and help if you want-"

"Already halfway there, L.T." 

"W-What?" 

"I knew you'd change your mind," He snickered. "Figured if I came anyway you couldn't say no." 

"Don't push your luck, MacTavish." 

*

Once Soap had arrived at the hospital, he failed to conceal his smile of excitement as he walked through the hallway and towards the elevator, swaying from side to side subtly as the elevator hoisted him up to the second floor. 

Slowly, he arrived at the door that separated him and the ones he cherished dearly, knocking quietly as he could feel Simon's presence inching closer to the door, a smirk splaying across Soap's face as he knew Simon was already irritated by giving in to accept help. Soap knew Simon hated asking for help. 

"Well good morning, L.T." 

"Yeah," He huffed, standing aside to let Soap pass by. "Where's your better half?" 

"Oh, that's below the belt, L.T. A little curious, are you?" He poked, enjoying pressing his buttons. "Oh! You meant Teeter? She's with Kiera's dad and the wranglers sorting cows." 

Simon scoffed at Soap's usual crude words, walking towards Kiera's bed as the nurse was disconnecting the monitors and I.V.'s from her arms. He smiled down at her softly before glancing at Evie and Jacob - Evie being awake and looking around as Jacob was sound asleep. While the nurse continued to talk to Kiera, Simon couldn't help but put his finger into the bassinet, his heart swelling at Evie's warm hand as she curled her small fingers around his. Don't ever grow up, lass. 

"When will you finally let me hold my niece-"

"No." 

"Come on, L.T. Would you rather me push Kiera's wheelchair while you-"

"No." 

"I need to know what you want me to do here," He scoffed playfully. "You're making it harder than what it really is." 

"Don't mean to." 

"Then just relax. I'm not going to snatch up my nephew and run away with him and I'm not going to snatch your daughter and give her to Teeter so she has a first curse word." 

"He has a point, Simon." Kiera shrugged as he hastily offered his hand to help her move into the nearby wheelchair. 

"What do you want me to do, love?" He sighed. 

"Well, you already ran our bags down this morning and the only thing we have left is to take me and the babies home," She smiled. "Let Johnny put them in their carriers and take them down while you push me, okay?" 

She knew Simon didn't like her suggestion, but he nodded anyway, reaching down to curl his fingers against her cheek before turning towards Soap, motioning him towards the couch that housed the two carriers they would be taken home in. "I'm going to get Evie first and put her in since she's awake." 

"Okay, L.T." Soap nodded, watching Simon carefully has he gently grasped his daughter within his large hands, holding the infant so delicately that looked unnatural for a man like Simon Riley. 

He watched as Simon grinned down at his daughter, the light murmurs and groans leaving Evie's lips making it impossible for Simon to be the only one who enjoyed it. So perfect you are, lass.

With careful steps, Simon approached the carrier before easily lowering her into the seat, that familiar swelling in his chest as her bright eyes stared back at him with perfect lashes to outline her eyelids, her little mouth forming into an O with a bulb-like shape on the tip of her top lip. Soap watched how carefully Simon secured Evie into the carrier before stepping back to the bassinet to retrieve the pacifier. 

"Can...Can I put Jacob into his seat?" 

Expecting a quick and sharp decline, Soap was shocked when Simon shot him a glare instead, showing a gleam of thought behind his dark brown eyes. He watched as Simon looked back at Kiera, watching her nod as if she were telling him it was okay before he subtly nodded at Soap, watching him make his way towards the bassinet with Simon close behind him. "I-I don't want to wake him up, L.T..." 

"You won't. Just grab him gently and pull him into your chest."

"R-Really?" 

"I've managed to master the art of picking up a sleeping baby within the last few days. Trust me. Cradle his head and put your other hand at his lower back as you pick him up then let him lay against your chest." 

Soap nodded at Simon's explanation, gently and slowly reaching into the bassinet to grasp Jacob's sleeping form, the infant so small in comparison to Soap's own hands. No wonder Simon freaks out about holding you himself, Soap thought. 

He held the infant close as he approached the carrier, Simon stepping aside an extra step to give Soap room as he gently lay Jacob in his carrier, the pair of men shocked at how naturally it came to them with no prior experience with children before. 

In fact, both Soap and Simon stayed away from children every chance they got. 

"Alright, L.T., package secure." Soap nodded with a grin of pride plastering his face, chuckling at how Simon stepped closer to the carrier to ensure Soap had fastened it right, passing him of the mental test as Jacob stayed asleep.

"You ever going to quit with the military talk, MacTavish?" 

"Don't plan on it, L.T."

[supercilium-sulcos]

Fragile Peace

[ Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. ] Chapter 1/5 Words: 1204 Rating: T (for canon-typical action and violence in later chapters, romance) Warnings: spoilers for the entirety of BotW. Link/Zelda eventually. >> AO3 << Summary At last, the storm has passed. The time has come to rebuild what was lost. Zelda takes the future of her kingdom into her own hands, but there are some who still linger who wish to see her mission fail. The princess and her knight find that, even with Ganon gone, evil still lurks in Hyrule. [ Post-BotW ] Chapter 1: Stability Darkness. Putrid and chaotic, it swirls around her. She fights against it with all she has but it seeps into her pores. Corruption. It’s spreading – it always is, but it’s spreading to her now, too. She bats it away like it’s a leech. It burrows deeper. Darkness is not the absence of light, her mother’s journal had said. It is a testament to the existence of light. Know this, and you can conquer any shadow. Never had the light felt so far away. How is she supposed to believe in what she cannot see? How can she fight the embodiment of evil when it exists in everything around her? It is not water. It is not tangible. But the darkness rises to her chin, and she knows it will drown her. She takes in a deep breath, just barely remembering to close her eyes, the darkness rises – rises -- Zelda snaps upright. 

Chest heaving, cold sweat soaking her clothes and sheets. Numb hands feel her arms and face for any signs of corruption. All she feels is her own clammy skin. Where am I? she nearly asks aloud. It’s dark, but not the kind from her nightmares. Starlight and torches illuminate a bit of the large, circular tent. Zelda shakes when she holds her breath again. Anxious eyes comb through the entirety of the tent. It seems there are no other occupants but for one Hylian – the stable master, who has fallen asleep in his chair at the desk. From the open tent flaps comes a faint orange glow. Zelda fumbles with the covers and follows the light. He sits with his back to a woodpile in front of a fire, twiddling a charred stick in the flames. Just seeing him there, relaxed as he is, keeps her panic from building. If Link senses no danger, then she is safe. Perhaps someday her subconscious will understand that. “You can’t sleep?” she wonders. Link lifts his head to see her. He shakes his head. “Neither can I,” Zelda says unnecessarily. She finds a patch of grass to settle down on beside him, cradling herself in her own arms. Eyes close. She is exhausted. It’s been weeks now and she has yet to sleep through the night. At first, it was from the relief. She was alive, Link was alive, Ganon was gone forever. Order had been restored. She had so much to see, so much to learn from her century-long absence. But relief flickered away into nothingness. Ganon’s destruction had not rid Hyrule of its scars, it had not brought back her loved ones, it had not cleansed her of her hundred-year fight. Zelda left the ruins of her home believing that it was all over and she could rest at last. But night after night, she finds herself back in the bowels of the castle, fighting. And failing. A whoosh hits her ears and a warm fabric sweeps around her shoulders. At first, she thinks it’s a blanket. She peeks out, touches the cloth, and she realizes it’s Link’s travelling cloak. It’s worn and frayed at the edges, but the material is thick. It smells like Epona. It probably smells a bit like sweat and dirt too, but it’s been a while she since had a proper bath herself; she’s acclimated to it. Zelda huddles up and tugs it around her for warmth. Only once it envelops her does she realize how much she’d been shivering. She shuts her eyes again, hoping she might feel rested without giving herself to slumber. “Aren’t you cold now?” she murmurs. Link reaches for her hand beneath the cloak. His thumb swipes the back of her hand, parallel to her knuckles. It’s one of his tracing signs that he taught her so very long ago. A horizontal line for no. A cross for yes. She’s not sure if he plans to pull his hand away; Zelda squeezes it between both of her own, and he lets her. Somewhere out in the plains, crickets hum and the grasses sway. Fire crackles, logs splitting and charring to keep the night at bay. A restless horse snorts in its stall. Zelda rests her head on his shoulder. He breathes, his heart beats. The wind blows his hair against her cheek. All these things, she thought she appreciated. Zelda knows better now. Because now she knows how easily this serene night could be shattered. Once, this could have lulled her to sleep. Now she is afraid that she may wake to find it’s slipped through her fingers again. “Is Kakariko far from here?” No, he swipes again. “Let’s go, then,” she says. “We’re awake. The weather’s fair. Why not ride?” A swipe back and forth – a very firm no. Zelda lifts her head, hoping she is not too delirious to be indignant. Link frees his hand from hers to speak freely. You need rest. Epona, too, he signs. “I’m fine, I’m…” She rubs at her eyes. Bites back the yawn building in her throat. Warmth has stolen her sense and made her drowsy. If she had the energy left, she would fight it. “I’ll rest once we reach Kakariko.” Link only looks at her. He is not one for smiles, and he has none for her tonight. He nudges her drooping head with the corner of one knuckle. She makes a tiny noise of discontent… and realizes how much she sounds like a child. When he throws a bucket of water over the fire, she does not protest. She does not complain when he picks her up, or lies her atop the sheets of her cot, or tucks her under the covers. For a moment, only a moment, she thinks his fingertips might linger on her hair. She hears a footstep, and knows he’s turning away. Leaving her. She grabs his sleeve. The sound that leaves her is… anguished. Zelda wishes it were not so – it ill befits a princess to show so much weakness. She has lived through worse than this. Yet the thought of him leaving now, just when she is about to be consumed by her night terrors in Ganon’s maw once more… her courage fails her. “Please,” she begs weakly, “don’t go.” Link carefully pries her hand from his arm and sets it down on the bed. He walks away. Tears well up in her eyes. She is so exhausted, her strength is sapped, and all she has left is this weakness and terror. Zelda has never felt so alone in her life. From the corner, she hears… rummaging? The waking world is fast fading, but Zelda opens her eyes to peer out at the tent. Link has closed the flaps and secured them. He walks towards her with a wooden chair under one arm. The chair falls to her bedside, and Link sits down. His hand closes around her wrist. The touch is gentle, but it calms her. He gazes into her eyes, and she needs no words – verbal or not – to know what he’s thinking. I’m here. You can rest now. And it brings her some comfort to know – even if she’s plagued with another night of twisted dreams, she will wake with Link by her side.

[ohtobeleah]

How about Ex!Husband Hangman being protective over Hawk?

No but you don’t understand just how far he’s willing to go for you. And we’re 100% going with this whole cross over universe with Chaos because I’ve gone too deep into it now. BUT you also don’t have to read Chaos! Just take it as a stand alone series if you want! After the shit show that was Clover Club yesterday please take this 5k chapter as my sincere apology.

Anyway—here’s the To Have & To Hold Masterlist

“I'm sorry I decked your husband.” You were sitting up near the Hard Deck on your laptop. Enjoying the sun but more importantly the show that was definitely more distracting than you ever thought it would be. Jake Seresin was many things, and a hot head with an ego the size of the entire posting of Miramar was definitely one of them. But watching as he paraded around, shirtless, glistening as the sun beamed down, surely cooking his skin to that nice tanned colour you enjoyed too much–it was hard to hold it against him. “He kinda deserved it though–”

“I'm inclined to agree with you lieutenant.” Finishing up your sentence before you looked up the figure who was now blocking your son. Lieutenant Chaos Kazansky. “My ex husband–” Correcting the Lieutenant who seemed to almost be remorseful for her actions. “Should know better than to bring childish nonsense into the workplace, especially when there is so much at risk here.” Sighing, you stood to meet her height. “If he's not careful he’ll end up with noone in his corner.”

“Ma’am?” Chaos was completely and utterly stunned when the rath didn't rain down on her like she was expecting it to. “Are you not going to chew me out?” From what you knew, Pete Mitchell had already done a pretty bang up job bringing the just as egotistical pilot back down to earth after Jake had egged her on. Knowing the Admirals were already hot on her tail, you decided Chaos didn't need shit from you too.

“You've already got the Admirals on your back Lieutenant–you don't need me as well.” It was a nice moment between two powerful women. You respected Chaos just as much as she respected you. Oly have known of each other's existence whenever Jake and Bradley were stationed at the same bases. Aviators like to talk. “I just trust that there won't be any more physical assaults?”

“No ma’am, none–” Chaos beamed as she smiled your way. The cheers of the squad getting into the game of dogfight football down by the water interrupting the moment you were sharing together. “I better get back to it then, Bob’s the only one on the shirts teams, don't wanna leave him hanging.” Turning on her heels, Chaos sent you one final look over her shoulder.

“Hey Chaos?” You caught her attention before she could get too far down the beach.”

“Yes, Lieutenant Commander Seresin.” God you hated the formalities. Rolling your eyes at the title you held before stepping closer.

“Don't let whatever is going on between you and Bradshaw distract you from being an exceptional pilot.”

“If I may, speak candidly ma’am.” Chaos waited for you to nod in agreement before she said what she needed to say. “You can do an awful lot better than Hangman–” It was almost venomous the way Chaos said it. Like she was warning you in the only way she knew how to. With honesty and forwardness. “He tried to hit on me at the bar before he knew who I was, I wouldn’t wanna be known as the women who’s husband wants to fuck anything with a hole.” Chaos didn't let you reply before she was turning in the sand again. Making her way back to the game. Pointing out Fanboy who had pointed her out first. Trying to shake off what you had just spoken about you tried to go back to your work.

Somewhere between your night with Jake and the confrontation you had had in your office a few hours before you found yourself sitting out on the deck of the hard Deck. Your wedding band had made its way from your dog tags to your ring finger. Absentmindedly twisting in around your finger as you worked and sipped the lemonade Penny had brought you a while ago. The ice had mentled, watering it down a little. It caught you by surprise then you had realised what you were doing and with what. Your wedding band was always something you tried to keep close yet hide at the same time. Being separated from the man you loved so dearly was confusing at the best of times. But it seemed as though your subconscious had taken over at some point in time. Doing the dirty work for you.

“I'll bet you twenty bucks Bradshaw and Kazansky are gonna be an item by the time this whole detachment finishes.” Jake's voice brought you out of your own head as you hid your hands under the table. Sliding your wedding band off your finger before placing it in the top pocket of your tan service uniform. “Just saw them sneaking off–” Coming to sit beside you. Inviting himself over.

“Oh I don't think either one of us are in the position to be judging other people's relationships.” Chuckling at how stupid Jake sounded. His shirt still balled up on the table, aviators covering his eyes, protecting them from the raise of the sun. “But if I had to make a bet I'd bet on the fact Bradshaw is in over his head.” Turning your attention back to your laptop. Running algorithms Jake didn't understand. “Chaos is a force to be reckoned with, she’ll be the death of him if he's not careful.”

“Damn, you’ve really got a horse in the game huh?” Jake snickered as he tried to understand exactly what you were working on. He knew enough to know that he could read the proposed egress climb. “Is that ten G’s I see?” pressing your tongue to the inner part of your cheek as you turned into Jake as he turned into you, the gap between you next to nothing as he sat beside you close enough for his slightly damp shorts to be pressing against your outer thigh.

“Can you not try and read classified material?”

“Sorry, sorry.” Jake smirked as he fished the wedding band he’d seen you place in your top pocket out. Grabbing your left hand gently as he slid the ring back on your ring finger. “Ah, that's better.”

“You're the epitome of annoying you know that right?” You couldn't help but to smirk, trying to hide your smile behind a stern look. Trying to hold your ground. “Surely there's some other hopelessly clueless girl you could be wasting your time on.” You really hoped there hadnt been. But after what Chaos had told you? You weren't so sure anymore.

“Kinda have my hands full with you already, wifey.”

“Wifey huh?” You teased, shutting your laptop so your full attention was on Jake. “Was I still wifey when you tried to hit on me at the bar without knowing it was me?” Jake rolled his eyes as he pulled you closer, sending one of his legs over the seat so you were between his legs.

“You have always been and will always be wifey–”

“Was I still wifey when you tried to hit on Chaos at the bar after I left?” Wait, who told you that? Where did you get that twisted information? Watching as Jake looked at you stunned into silence you knew you had him cornered. “I don't blame you for wanting to seek solace in other women, we’re separated Jake. You don't owe me anything, but don't play pretend and tell me I'm the only one when I'm not.” Jake had asked you to be honest with him, he said he’d respect it if you were seeing other people. He’d hate it. But nevertheless he’d respect it because he loved you too much to not respect the ever living shit out of you. You just wanted the same from him. He said it was hard with the tattooed wedding band, but he didn't say it was impossible. “You never really specified if there was anyone else and I'm okay with the fact there may have been a few women in your life in the time we've been separated.” Damn, were you about to cry? Why was your chest so tight? Why were your eyes threatening to water? “But I just wanna know before you know, before another woman shows up pregnant with your bastard child or something.” Leaning in to kiss your shoulder with gentle and subtitle kisses, Jake Seresin realised he’d been living a lie for far longer than he should have been.

“There's been a few.” fuck you knew it. Your heart physically ached at the idea Jake had been with other women, but you had absolutely no room to harbour hatred when you had been the one to walk away. “But I wanna be perfectly clear here, none and I mean none of them ever came close to comparing to you.”

“Oh I'm sure they still satisfied.” Trying to stand Jake held you down, he wasn't letting you run away this time. “Jake–”

“You left me, Y/n–” Jake hissed as his grip on your forearm tightened. “You were the one who walked out our front door in the middle of the night and never came back.” He wasn't lying, that's exactly what you had done. It was too hard to leave when Jake was begging you to stay. So when you knew he was down and out for the count? You slipped out of his grapes and left with just a few suitcases of clothes and photographs. “That was a decision you made in our marriage, you can't hold it against me if I slipped up and just needed to feel something every once in a while.”

“And I'm not holding it against you!” You were quick to argue. “But it still hurts knowing the truth.” Pulling yourself out of Jake's tight grip. “I am still very much in love with you, unbeknownst to all my instincts to run as far away as I can and never look back. I've tried that and it nearly killed me.” Jake's eyes lingered on your lips before he looked back up at your eyes, near watery and oh so full of inter turmoil. “But despite how much I love you, a marriage needs more than that, what if this marriage isn't worth saving? What if we’re just better off as friends?” Sielce lingered between the two of you before Jake broke the heavy atmosphere that had settled.

“A true blonde wouldn't overthink it as much as you are.” His childishness made you chuckle, of course that's the kind of reaction he would give you when you were discussing the state your marriage was in. “Look, I'll tell you what.” Tilting your chin up slightly as Jake looked at you with so much love in his eyes. “I don't know if you know this about me but I can be incredibly difficult and don't really like to lose.” Oh yeah, no you knew that already. “And I'm not ready to let you go yet.” It made your heart swoon as Jake left a soft lingering kiss on your lips. As soft as a kiss could ever be. “Whatever it takes to win you over, to prove I'm in this, I'll do it–I promise.”

“I'd rather you not make promises I already know you can't keep, Bagman.” Taunting and teasing his callsign, Jake pulled you into his chest. Kissing the top of your head. “At this point we’re just going around in circles.”

“I reckon if we actually have that dinner we’d end up on the same page.” Jake cooed as he let his arms wrap around your shoulders as you let your back rest against his exposed chest, now dry from the heat of the sun. watching the sun set over the water that some of the team still swam in. “ill even show up this time–”

“Oh yeah, no that would be a good start.” Chuckling together, you couldn't help but fall a little more in love with Jake Seresin despite all the warning signs. “But I could do dinner.”

***~***~***~***~***~***~***~

It was a relatively quiet night at the Hard Deck. Jake had however still gone to the effort of actually booking a booth out at the back of the dining side of the bar. Ringing Penny approximately five minutes after you’d said you could do dinner begging her to set the table all fancy.

Beside herself at the desperation in his voice over the phone—Penny agreed and played the part she was meant to play. Jake Seresin was on a mission to save whatever was left of his tattered marriage. She wasn’t about to be a reason why things didn’t plan out the way he hoped they would.

“Penny my dear—“ Jake beamed as he looked over his menu at you. Your eyes just popping over the top of the menu. “What’s on the special board?” Penny had come over with the drinks Jake had ordered for you. He’d gotten his regular order, an old fashioned. For you? He ordered a Long Island iced tea, with lemonade squash as the base. Yep—there surely had to be some intention behind that order, a Long Island was lethal.

“We’ve got baby back ribs, house salad and fries for twenty or slow cooked lamb shank with mash and greens for eighteen.” Penny held the empty drink tray against her hip as you and Jake mulled over your decisions.

“Lamb shank sounds really good, thanks Pen.” You smiled softly as you handed her back your menu. “And don’t let him order me another cocktail—“ Teasing Jake as he handed his own menu back, glaring at you as he did so.

“God I am just damned if I do and damned if I don’t these days huh?” Jake smirked back at you as he took a sip of his old fashioned. He really did scrub up alright. The fresh blue jeans, crisp white T-shirt and brown Bomber jacket. A simple outfit that he just looked oh so fine in. “I’ll have the steak please Penny—pepper sauce on the side.”

“Coming right up you too.” Penny sent you a slight all knowing smile as she turned on her heels. Playing the drink tray back on the bar before making her way over to the pass—sending your orders through. For a while you both just sat in comfortable silence, listening to the music that played in the background. Both people watching absentmindedly.

“So, what actually made you change your hair?” Jake asked as he stood from his side of the booth before slipping in beside you. He felt too far away. Watching as you slid across towards the window.

“Um—“ You wanted to just say something like you needed a change but that would be a blatant lie. “Truth be told?” Taking a sip of your drink, the burn of all the different shots of alcohol mixing in your chest as you swallowed. “It was either go blonde or shave it all off—you know full Brittany.” Jake couldn’t help but chuckle as he let his arm rest up and around the back of the booth. Keeping you close. “I tried to do a box job over the brown which ended up orange, so I made an emergency appointment to see an actual stylist and this is what we ended up with.”

“Oh so you DIY things now do you?” Jake teased, you’d never really been one to do your hair or nails yourself. You liked to feel pampered when you had the time and chance. But when your marriage began to crumble into a million pieces those things just didn’t seem worth it. “Could’ve just gone a darker shade—“

“Yeah well I didn’t, you saying you don’t like it?” Taunting Jake back you watched as his eyes trailed down to your lips then back up. “Hey, eyes you here Seresin, this is only our second date.”

“I love everything about you.” Leaning in to gently kiss the nap of your neck. Whispering sweet nothings into your ear as you tried to hide the giddy smile plastered on your face. Biting your bottom lip. “And I vividly remember our first date being unintentionally sexual—“

“That’s not happening tonight.” You were quick to reply, your hand coming to rest just shy of Jake's clothed length. You could feel how strained he was against his jeans. Huh, you could have a little fun with this.

“How much do you wanna bet?” Jake pulled back just in time, Penny had been walking your way with your orders. Placing them down gently as you and Jake separated slightly. “Thanks Penny.” He cooed, acknowledging the kindness she’d shown, how far she went to make the meek booth seem a little more romantic.

“More than what you wanted to bet on Chaos and Rooster.” Opening your utensils from the carefully wrapped napkin, you sighed as flavours danced on your tastebuds. “Oh fuck that’s good—“

“Well, usually Rooster would be here by now.” Jake looked around the other side of the bar, majority of the patrons as always were aviator’s currently stationed. But to no surprise two were missing. “And considering Chaos isn’t here either I’d say they’re together.” Down the rest of your drink you turned to Jake, tapping him on the shoulder as you chewed on the ice cube that you’d taken in your mouth. “What?”

“Move, I gotta pee and wanna get another drink.”

“Go pee and I’ll get you another round.” Jake grinned ear to ear at the reaction you gave him as he stood to his feet, letting you slide out of the booth.

“Oh absolutely not!” Slapping his chest slightly, he faked being hurt. His hand coming to cover his heart playfully as he sat back down. Popping a chip into his mouth. “I know you’re trying to get me drunk—“

“Oh I don’t need to get you drunk for you to come home with me doll, you’ll do that on your own accord.” You'd admit he was quick but you were quicker.

“Ask Chaos to go home with you, Bangman—“ Teasing your husband as you leaned into him as you stood. Cupping his cheeks. Keeping his chin pointed up your way.

“I think I’m good, don’t wanna catch something.” Sending you a wink as you glared down at Jake. His eyes the shades of all the perfect blues in the world. Swirling pools of unambiguous love.

“Like intelligence?” You smirked back before letting his face go, knowing that the moment you turned away his eyes were glued to your arse. “Be back in a few.”

“Hurry back or I’ll eat your shank!” You really wouldn’t put it past him. Making your way to the bar. Sitting on the stool as you waited for Penny to finish with her other paying customers. Jake sat back against the booth just drinking in the sight of you. So beautiful, all his.

He hadn’t really had a chance to see you dress up, or dress casually? Whatever you’d call the cute ensemble you put together. The ripped boyfriend jeans, the cashmere sweater with the white silk collar popping out the top. The sneakers that matched the pastel cream of the cashmere sweaters. A few gold rings. Nothing too fancy—but fuck your looked good.

“Can I just get a midori sour please Pen?” You asked nicely as you tapped your card on the bar. “I’ll get Jake another old fashioned while I’m here too.” Leaning on the bar as you watched her make your drinks.

“You too seem to be hitting it off?” Penny smirked as she poured the liquor into the shot glass she was using to measure your drinks. “Hangman seems—unusually likeable around you.”

“He’s trying his best—“ Looking back over your shoulder you locked eyes with Jake as he looked back at you. His eyes never leaving yours as he watched you by the bar. Your protector. “He really wants this to work.”

“Do you?” You weren’t all that sure if it was going to, but you wanted it to. So badly. You wanted Jake Seresin back. With every fibre of your being. Your husband, your best friend. Watching as Penny fixed your drinks, you sighed softly. “That’s all that really matters right?”

“Jakes never been one to back down from a challenge, I’ll let him squirm a little.” Chuckling, Penny turned her back as she wiped her hands, looking for the nearest soft drink gun.

“What’s a pretty little thing like you doing in a place like this?” The man who slipped beside you groaned as he downed the rest of his drink. “Another round bar keep—and put whatever she’s having on my tab.” Penny was about to step in for you until you sent her a warning look. One word. Don’t. “You come here alone gorgeous.”

“Sorry pal, you just aren’t my type.” He was so not your type. Rough around the edges biker dude with what looked like cheeto dust still prevalent in his beard.

“Enlighten me sweetheart.” Oh god was he really gonna play this game? Did he not know you were here with someone? Your husband for a matter of fact.

“Listen.” Turning your full attention to the man who now had his hand on your knee. “I couldn’t count on both my hands how many men in this bar would jump to my aid if I cried damsel in distress right now.” Pulling his hand off your knee before he had a chance to move it any higher with a look of grotesqueness and hint of disgust. Gesturing to the handful or so aviators who were crowded around playing darts and pool. “So unless you wanna see how far they’re willing to go I suggest you back off before the blonde one sitting in the booth behind you decides to use your head to ring that there bell.” You felt pretty confident that you’d given him the hint you really weren’t interested in his advances. Smirking as Penny handed you the two cocktails you’d ordered. Picking them up as you hopped off the barstool—you sent old mate a Cheshire cat smile. Holding your midori sour up in the chairs like fashion. “Have a good night, sweetheart.” Mocking the man who’s tried to hit on you.

“You fucking little bitch.” The guy had his hand twisted in your hair quicker than you could step away. Turning around in pure and utter shock you threw your drink in his face just to get him off you. Your scalp on fire.

“HEY!!“ Jake bellowed throughout the Hard Deck as he jumped out of the booth. Marching over with intent to kill. No one put their god damn hands on his fucking wife.

“Bar fight!” Javy, who had been paying more attention to the pool game in front of him than what had been going on at the bar shouted when he heard his friend's voice in a tone he only knew when things were about to go now. “Bar fight!” Throwing his pool cue absentmindedly as he took strides to cross the length of the Hard Deck. Watching with complete shock as the man who’d been trying to hit on you took your face in his hands and brought your face against his. Head butting you with the force of a thousand. “Oh fuck!” Javy paused as he tried to wrap his head around what just happened.

“Piece of shit!” You swung a right hook at the man before he could step out of your line. Connecting your first with his jaw. It didn’t do much, but the bar erupted in cheers before you went down to the ground on your knees. Blood pouring out of your mouth and nose. It was unbeknownst to the man that you weren’t alone, you were a part of a double act. Jake Seresin was enraged and completely blinded by the need to protect the woman he loved so dearly. Consequences be damned as Penny rang the belly loud and long. Grabbing the man who smelled of bourbon and cheese wiz by the collar of his shirt before throwing a face shattering punch straight into his nose. Holding him up so he couldn’t fall down.

“You don’t fucking touch her.” *Whack* There goes another one. *Whack* and another. “That’s my fucking wife you just assaulted you god damn mother fucker!” Throwing the guy down onto the ground Jake was quick to throw himself on top of the bloodied man. Laying punch after punch after punch. “Don’t you even touch a lady again!”

“Are you alright ma’am?” Bob's soft and gentle nature stuck out like a saw thumb amongst the chaos that had broken out. His hands on your shoulders somewhat protectively as he crouched beside you. “Hawk?”

“I’m fine!” You had to shrug Bob off as you tried to stand back up, a little dizzy at first but you managed. “Javy! Get him off of him before he kills someone!” You hissed as you held your nose.

“C’mon man he’s not worth it—“ Coyote tried to pull Jake off the man who looked about one more lunch away from meeting his maker. “Get off him.”

“She’s worth everything!” Jake didn’t go without a fight. His knuckles bloodied, his chest heaving. Javy had to drag him kicking and screaming out of the bar. “Fucking let me at him so help me god I’ll kill him Coyote, I’ll rip his throat out!”

“Well I’d rather you not do that.” Javy tried his best to calm down Jake as he blocked the front door. Keeping the clearly hot headed aviator from entering. “You've done enough—“

“Jake” instantly at the sound of your voice Jake was softening his shoulders, his eyes became less clouded with rage and anger and instead filled with devotion and heartache. “Can you drive me home?”

“Are you alright?” Cupping your cheeks as he assessed your nose. Your free hand cupping his. The other holding a makeshift ice pack. “Shit he really did a number huh?” Jake would throw himself in the line of fire for you, no hesitation.

“I’m fine, promise—just wanna go home.” Jake didn’t like the way you sounded dazed. He hated the blood you spat out of your mouth as he held the ice pack against your nose to contain the swelling.

“Okay sure thing.” Kissing to top of your forehead gently before wrapping his arms around your shoulders, pulling you into his side as he walked you to his car. You’d come back for yours at a later time. You couldn’t drive right now. No way no how. “But first we’re gonna stop by the emergency department and get you checked out—“

“Jake.” You sighed in disagreement as you stopped in your place. “I promise I feel fine.”

“Y/n—“ Oh he was hitting you with the legal name huh? Shit. “I mean no disrespect, but physically that man was twice, maybe even a good three times your size—I'm not sure how you're standing right now let alone talking coherently.” Jake was concerned for your well-being, that’s all it was. He wanted to make sure you were alright. That you were safe. “This isn’t up for debate, I’m taking you to emergency so they can clear you of a concussion, which will give me peace of mind.” His nostrils were still flaring as Jake stood before you. Reaching out for your hand—still looking over your shoulders at the Hard Deck in case someone else wanted to try something with his wife. “I just wanna make sure you’re alright.” His voice grew softer at that last sentiment. “You’re my everything, I can’t lose you to something I didn’t take the time checking out, emergency, then mine.”

It felt like a whole new feeling. Being loved by Jake Seresin. He was a tool on the best of days and still a hot shot on his worst. But he loved you, so much. He’d lay down his life for you. And that was something you had forgotten in your time apart.

He had a thing about working as a team—but you? You were his other half. He’d forgotten who he was when you left. He was only just now starting to find his way home.

“Okay.” You reached up to kiss Jake's cheek. “Hey, thanks for uh—thanks for having my back in there.” All Jake did was open the passenger side door in response, watching as you slid in and worked to clip your seatbelt on. Leaning into the car via the window that had been left down, Jake looked at you so seriously and with so much love in his eyes it nearly gave you a heart attack.

“You don’t know how far I’d go to protect you.”

***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***~***

Tags: @justanothermagicalsara @alexsisrebekah @stinkyjax @starkleila @luckyladycreator2 @love2write2626 @shanimallina87 @dempy @mintellaine @kiarabellerum31 @abaker74

[cellophaine]

Lingered Affection (Chapter III)

Chapter I, Chapter II

Pairing: Matt Murdock x Reader

Word Count: 5081

Series Summary: You thought breaking up with Matt was the right thing to do. For his sake and yours. Life went on as you navigated through it with the lingered love and affection you still had for each other, neither of you could let go.

Chapter Warnings: Bloody situation, medical procedure involving needle.

Author's Note: I felt like I messed this chapter up BAD. REAL BAD. I hope you will somewhat enjoy it. I'll go cry in the corner.

As always, any likes, comments, reblogs and feedback are greatly appreciated!

Taglist: @juniebugg <3

Gif Credit

A few days had passed, the weather was still as cold as ever, and you still missed Matt. It was something that you anticipated, but still, it should be easier by now. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But, unfortunately, that was not the case with him. This gut-wrenching pain was still here, and it only got stronger the longer you parted from him. He called less and less as the days went by, his last voicemail sitting opened in your inbox.

"I won't call or message you anymore. I understand that you want to be alone and you want some time to yourself. But, just, please, with all of my heart and being, know that I care about you so much. I will do anything if that means you will talk to me — even if to say you hate me. I can handle that. The silence hurts worse. Please, we can meet up and talk. I miss you."

Why did it have to be this hard? You knew you could never tell him that you hate him or anything remotely close. You still loved him, after all. But you couldn't tell him that, face to face, as he would know right away that it was the truth, and all of this was for nothing. You delved your own hands into your gaping, bleeding mortal wound and couldn't scream out for help, for you knew that it was useless.

You found yourself on the streets of New York, again, walking towards Balsley Park with purpose. What was the purpose? You thought you might have an idea. You were going to find out anyway.

"Hey, Foggy."

He perked up at his name being called. He stood up, getting ready to welcome you, before being interrupted midway as an old lady closed by threw bird seeds on the ground, caused an influx of pigeons to flew past him in the most impolite way. Foggy turned to look at the lady and muttered the most sarcastic 'thank you' he could come up with. You chuckled, raised an eyebrow at him. Then, he came to stand before you and asked:

"Do you want to go to a cafe before I get bird feces all over me? I'm pretty sure that woman can control those evil creatures."

"Sure. Let's go."

It wasn't long before both of you were seated across from each other in a small and cozy coffee shop nearby. You took a sip of your hot tea nervously while Foggy studied you. Finally, after waiting for you to put the mug down, he spoke up:

"Did something happen between you and Matt?"

There it was. The question that you dreaded. You had a clear understanding that this would have come sooner or later. Still, you were hoping that you didn't have to be the one who told Foggy or Karen the news because they were his friends, not yours. However, they welcomed you with open arms, and you had come to cherish them dearly, despite knowing that it was all Matt's doing.

"Yes." You sighed.

Foggy looked at you expectantly, waiting for you to continue.

"We broke up."

Your voice cracked a little at the end. You cleared your throat, trying to brush it off. You didn't want to say it out loud, didn't want to talk about it. Hadn't you tortured yourself enough already? Bottling it all up inside, not letting anything slip out. Because you were afraid, you couldn't get all the regrets and the aches back in once it got out. Wasn't it better to be in denial and pretend everything was okay?

Foggy's eyes widen, seemed to be taken aback by what you admitted.

"You guys seemed fine. I mean, more than fine. As a matter of fact, very happy."

"Well, we weren't perfect, Foggy."

He huffed out a breath in disbelief.

"There's no such thing as perfect."

He called your name softly, lowering his voice to a whisper.

"Is it because of his other ... you know, duty? His ... nightly activities?"

He raised his brows meaningfully at every pause. Shaking your head, you abruptly stopped the motion. Wasn't that ... a part of all the reasons why? Not because of him engaging in those ventures, putting himself in danger, beating up criminals, but because of how inadequate you were in those nights when he needed you the most. You could deal with bruises, swellings, and shallow wounds. You could stitch him up quite nicely if he needed you to, but what about collapsed lungs or internal bleeding or something so much worse? Claire was a lifesaver when it came to those situations. But she was no longer around. You weren't equipped to handle that. Wouldn't it be better to be able to assist him somewhat when he was out there?

"I just feel like he could do better, you know? Our time ran out, and it was in our best interests to take separate paths."

Foggy rolled his eyes at you.

"That's bullshit. Everyone knows that's bullshit."

"Believe what you want, Foggy. It's the truth."

You shrugged nonchalantly, hoping to fool him.

"You want to know how he's been? He's had more injuries, like he just randomly threw himself into the middle of the traffic. As if he's collecting bruises for fun. He's closed up and wouldn't tell us what's going on with him. He's been going to Fogwell's gym a lot, too, beating the hell out of the punching bags, as if he had some sorts of personal vengeance with them."

Your heart seized at the mention of Matt sustaining even more harm. His reckless tendencies were something that you were familiar with. You understood and accepted it, but it didn't mean that it was easy for you to watch him going out every night, throwing himself at danger with little regard to his life. To hear that his recklessness had only increased, this sinking feeling inside of you only felt heavier, like it was dragging you down, determined to drown you.

You let out a shaky breath, tried to keep your voice even.

"I'm just a liability, Foggy. He'll understand what I did for him was for his own sake, eventually."

Sitting up straighter to keep your shoulders from shagging, you decided to tell Foggy how you felt. Because you were so tired of convincing yourself that if you tried hard enough, you just might be deserving of Matt.

"A goodbye was all I could offer him. Swipe the plate clean so that he could start over with someone else, someone better."

Foggy reached out for your hand from across the table, squeezing it kindly, a sympathetic expression on his face.

"You and I both know that's not the truth. Matt is not one to look for the best person. If anything, he wants to be the best person he can be for you."

Your heart lurched at the words. He continued.

"I care about you. You are my friend too, whether you like it or not. Even if you and Matt don't get back together."

You couldn't help the surprised expression at his words. You had assumed that when you had gone out of Matt's life for good, Foggy would be gone too.

"Thanks, Foggy. I appreciate that." You squeezed his hand back.

"So, is there any way that I can do to get you to talk to him?"

"No, I'm sorry. It's my decision. And I need to go through with it."

He nodded solemnly, accepting your final resolution.

"I won't interfere more than I already have. Just know that it wouldn't hurt to talk to him. I respect your decision either way."

"Thank you, Foggy. I appreciate that."

Leaving the coffee shop, you walked back to your apartment. You turned the conversation you had with Foggy over and over in your head. You were so used to leaving people and being abandoned yourself, that you accepted once people realize they could do better, you would be left in the dust, like a forgotten toy under a kid's bed. You were, without a doubt, believed in what you told Foggy: Matt would move on, he'd be better, eventually, just not with you.

Back in your place, you sat down in front of your desk, with the window facing you. Snow started falling again, twirling beautifully and leisurely in the air, like they had all the time in the world. You thought about Matt's apartment, filled with lights filtering through the big windows, and the time you spent with him at the place. You were happy, the little happiness you allowed yourself to enjoy after what felt like a long time. But you also allowed yourself to be greedy, to the point you didn't want to let go. Now, it turned back and attacked you relentlessly, even though there was nothing else but ash and ruins left in your heart.

You flipped your beloved sketchbook open to the page that you had run your fingers over the edges so many times. A detailed pencil drawing of a face concealed by a black mask, leaving only the mouth and the jawline in the open, standing out on the material. You thought back when your gnawing suspicion slowly reached its breaking point, to find something unexpected on the other side.

For a few weeks after the attack, you tried your best to recall the masked stranger's features in the hope of expressing your gratitude if you had the chance to come across him. You drew him as the memories of him came back to you, hazy at first, but the fog started to clear out, allowing you to see him better. At first, the sketches were vague, and now, with more details, you were almost sure that he looked like a certain lawyer you knew. You were conflicted with yourself. It simply couldn't be. Matt was blind. How was he able to "take care" of your attacker? The guy was massive. There were so many coincidences, ones that you couldn't explain, but the similarity was so apparent that you couldn't ignore it.

You had plenty of chances to observe Matt since he stopped by the cafe nearly every weekday, sometimes on the weekend, even on your days off. May teased you with the possibility of Matt hoping to see you, specifically, but you rejected the silly notion immediately. He couldn't have visited just to see you, could he? Sure, you two shared lengthy conversations. Eventually, you found yourself enjoying his company and, even more, his flirtatious remarks. You grew to look forward to seeing him whenever you worked. You should have recognized the red flag since getting close to people and letting them get close to you was something you wanted to avoid, but you walked forth and ignored it. It was harmless, right? He must have come for the coffee. The teasing, flirtatious comments he made, seemingly just for you, was only a bonus for him.

You looked at the newest sketch you made of the man in the mask when the door chimed. The uncertain tap of a cane pulled a smile on your face.

"Matt! Here for your usual coffee?"

He chuckled.

"Sorry, not today. Foggy called in sick today, and I was supposed to meet up with a client over lunch, but they bailed on me. So I sat there alone for 45 minutes until they finally called and asked to be rescheduled."

You frowned.

"I'm sorry that they wasted your time. So, what brings you here?"

"I wanted to see you. Well, in my case, to hear your voice."

Your face flushed red at his unexpected confession. You were used to his harmless teasing, but there was something earnest laced between the words. You stammered for what to say in return. Before you could come up with a complete sentence, May walked to where you stood and spoke out for you.

"Oh! Hey, isn't it your lunchtime already? It's your lucky day, Matt. So get her out of here!"

You turned your head, glaring at May, mouth open agape with betrayal. She gave you a not-so-subtle wink, and you just wanted to dive off a cliff. You looked at Matt, noticed the slight rose tint on his cheeks and ears. He gave you a sheepish grin and said at the same time as you scrambled to save your face.

"You don't have to do that. I don't want to take your time."

"I would love to get lunch with you."

The words hung in the air between you. You thought your face couldn't get hotter, but it did. Matt smiled bashfully, extending a hand in your general direction.

"Shall we?"

You hesitated. May made a shooing hand motion at you. Finally, you gave in, taking off the apron you were wearing. After getting your wallet from the backroom, you walked towards Matt and offered him your arm.

"Alright. Let's go."

You ignored the fluttering of your heartbeat when his hand brushed over your bare arm, settled itself comfortably in a gentle grasp on your upper arm. You tilted your head slightly to look at him better. With how close you were, you could see the faint facial hair and the way his mouth quirked up slightly at the corner, showing the barest hint of teeth. You didn't miss the ghost of a black eye and a small cut beneath it. At this angle, a pang of familiarity hit you again — the image of the stranger in the mask fleeting in your head. You had to make sense of this.

You two sat in a booth in a restaurant, with the scattered patrons talking in a just-right volume, lounging around. Your food hadn't come yet. Matt broke the silence.

"You said you're an artist, right?"

"Yes. That's my main job."

"How does that go for you?"

"Pretty decent, I would say. I can afford the sky-high rent here and some. And I love doing it."

You smiled fondly at that.

"I wish I could see your works. I bet they are exquisite."

You thought about it for a second.

"You can, in a way. I mean, I can describe them to you. Or you can use your hands to touch my stuff and feel the texture."

His brows rose high, his eyes widen. He choked on the sip of water he was taking, coughing into his suit sleeve. The realization of what you'd just said dawned on you; you blushed and stammered.

"I ... I mean ... not like that. I mean, like in a non-sexual way. No, I mean, you can touch my artwork any way you like. It's your experience; you can do whatever. Can you even sexually feel something? Of course, when it comes to intercourse, but I mean touching an object sexually. You know what, I'm going to shut up."

His smile broadened as you struggled to dig yourself out of the situation. You groaned, covering your face with your hands, looking at him through your fingers.

"This is going very well, isn't it?"

He let out an amused laugh.

"That was very hard to hear, and if I have to be honest, that wasn't a good save at all."

You exhaled through your mouth, dropping your lower arms on the table.

"I will never be able to live this down. So I must leave the country. Maybe I can catch a train to Canada."

Matt reached out with his hand, hesitantly looking for yours. You moved your hand. He deftly felt for your wrist, gave it a gentle squeeze. You internally told your heart to keep it down because you were sure everyone in this place could hear it, including Matt. Why were you so nervous?

"It's alright. This can stay between us. I'd miss you terribly if you skipped town."

You rolled your eyes at that, even though he couldn't see it.

"Yeah, right. You'd miss the coffee I make for you more."

"I'm serious. I would miss you. I enjoy your presence and our conversations. Do you?"

That was unexpected. You had a million different scenarios in your head about how this lunch would go, but you didn't predict this. You decided to tell him the truth. There was no harm, right?

"I do."

Two simple words, filled with earnestness. Matt beamed at your response; the smile lines around his eyes imprinted on his face, and you found yourself wanting to run your fingers over them. So, to distract you from your dangerous thoughts, you decided to use this opportunity to act on your suspicion.

"I feel like we've met before, way before you started coming to the shop. You look very familiar."

Matt's smile dropped slightly. Then, he adjusted his position and said:

"Maybe I just have one of those faces, you know? The typical face you see in some people."

"No, that's not it. I find your facial features incredibly familiar, especially with your lips and your jawline."

"Oh really? I didn't know that you took your time staring at my lips."

He grinned, one eyebrow raised playfully.

Fuck fuck fuck. You kept digging yourself in holes today, didn't you? What was up with you?

You cleared your throat loudly in an attempt to save your face, quickly added:

"I often memorize people's faces. It's a way for me to gather inspiration, study people's face proportions and all. I find it interesting. I'm an artist, after all."

"Are you saying I'm not the only one you stare intensely at? Now my feelings are hurt."

He laughed lightheartedly, followed by your giggles. You didn't know what it was about Matt that made you feel at ease. You wondered if it was the loneliness that got to you, or if it was you simply liking Matt for being himself?

Matt picked up the conversation.

"Alright. If you spent so much time watching me, I would love to hear your read on me."

"First of all, I didn't watch you. I observed. And second of all, are you serious?"

He shrugged, motioned with his hand, encouraged you.

"Yeah. Why not? I want to hear what you have."

This is your chance. To see if the man sitting across from you was your saviour that night.

"Okay. Stop me if I go too far. If you absolutely must know what I think of you, here goes ..."

You felt his stare from behind his red glasses. You took a deep breath and started:

"You're blind, but you're not helpless or powerless. Sometimes, I forget that you can't see with the way you move around. It's almost like an act. I feel like you're hiding something, with all the bruises on your face and knuckles."

He went silent. You stopped yourself.

"I'm so sorry. Did I go too far?"

"No, no, that's alright. Foggy said that as well. It's strange having two different people telling me the same thing. For the bruises, I'm just clumsy. I knock over stuff sometimes. I'm ... blind, after all."

You mused over the confession. Were you going crazy, or did he contradict himself there? It was so apparent that it might as well laughed at you. Was it possible that Matt and the masked man were the same people? Your thought was interrupted as the waiter put down two plates of steaming food.

"I hope I didn't freak you out or offend you."

Your voice was small, full of guilt. You glanced out the window, tried not to look at him. You felt something warm engulfed your hand. You looked down to see Matt had settled his hand over yours, and gave it a light grip, full of comfort.

The familiar crush and warmth rushed through you, clearing the last of the haze, and you knew you had your answer.

"Hey, hey. It's okay. No offence taken. It takes a lot more to upset me. There's nothing I'd like more for you to be comfortable with me."

You smiled. The clarity you had was liberating and confusing at the same time. Matt Murdock being some sort of hero or vigilante. Maybe he did this because he enjoyed beating someone up. How would you know? More important of all, how was that possible? You ended up with more questions than answers, but at least, you had the truth.

The lunch went by quicker than you thought. The food was great, and Matt was even better. By the time both of you had to go back, you found yourself wanting to stay there in the restaurant with him, even if it was for only a moment longer. Matt walked you back to the cafe, saying goodbye, not before reassuring you that he had a great time and hoped you two could do something like this soon. The way his hand lingered on your arm just a moment too long tinted your face red. You had a soft smile on your face for the rest of the day, and May took every chance to tease you about it. You wondered if you would get a chance to see him in his other identity again. Lucky for you, you didn't have to wait for long.

It was another hot summer night, two weeks after your brunch with Matt. It was 8 PM, the sky started darkening quickly. Since May had to attend a wedding over the weekend, she allowed you to close early since your last brush with near death. So you wrapped things up quickly. Closing the side door behind, you hurried to the main street until a dark figure appeared in front of you, making you shrieked, pulling out the thick paper cutting knife you stored in your pocket. The shadow slumped down onto the ground, holding their hands up in surrender with great effort. You tentatively stepped closer, inspecting the dark figure, eyes roved over the black mask, the black attire and some drops of blood trailing out of the dark material.

"It's you!"

You exclaimed. The knife in your hand shook less. Finally, the silhouette spoke out, their voice gravelly and desperate:

"Please, I need help."

Helping the stranger into the backroom of the cafe was no easy feat, but you didn't dare to stop to take a breath. Still, you managed to sneak in a comment:

"What you need is help from the hospital, not help from me, buddy."

"No ... no hospital."

"Fine. It's your funeral."

After laying him down on the couch, you frantically searched for the medical kit. Pulling it out from the top of the cupboard, you settled quickly beside him to find his shirt already pulled up past his pectorals, revealing a toned and scarred body; his bloody and bruised abs rose and fell rapidly to his rough breathing. Well, it would be a dead body soon enough if you wouldn't stop staring and get to work.

You used a small towel to clean away some of the blood, to take a better look at his wound. A knife wound on his stomach, not too deep, thank God, the stitching up should be easy enough.

"Got ... shot. Grazed ... my arm ... hurt. "

Shit. You carefully rolled up his sleeve. Just like he said, the bullet only grazed his arm but still made quite the damage. It cut his skin open, the blood seeping freely through the edges. You grabbed a clean cloth, carefully pressed on the wound on his arm. He grunted.

"Hold onto to that. I'll take care of the cut on your stomach first."

He held his hand over the cloth. You cleaned more blood from his abdomen, then ran to the kitchen, washing your hands and upper arms as thoroughly as you could, and came back with a pair of clean gloves. After putting them on, you started preparing the needle and the thread. Once that was done with, you turned to him, keeping your voice as calm as you could manage:

"I'm going to stitch you up now. Do you need a painkiller or sedation?"

He shook his head quickly, muttered some breathy words.

"No ... you have ... sedation?"

You hesitated.

"... nooo. But I can try knocking you out or something."

He chuckled; the vibration made his body stiffen instantly.

"No ... just ... go for it."

Bracing yourself, you lined the edges of the wound together and started your work. Your hands shook lightly, but you managed to keep the stitches somewhat even, and the cut sealed shut. You blew out a relieved breath, secured the gash with sterilized gauze and started preparing for the bullet scrape on his arm. He had stayed very still, made it easier and faster for you to go through with the whole procedure quickly. Every so often, an agonizing grunt would escape his gritted teeth, making you falter for a brief moment.

"You either have insanely high pain tolerance, or you do this every other day because you're handling this very well. For a person who was bleeding from two injuries with others in God knows what places."

Finishing up with the stitches on his arm, you sealed it close with a clean bandage. He sat up cautiously, releasing a hiss of pain. You helped him sit up fully, leaned on the couch, and grabbed a new warm towel to clean up the rest of the blood on his body.

One hand holding his arm, the other made gentle swipes at the blood that was drying up; you assessed him. His rough breathing had even out. Some droplets of sweat raced down from his jaw to his neck, and you outstretched your hand toward them. He startled at the contact; the free hand came up and snatched your wrist.

"Hey, relax. I'm just cleaning the sweat off. If I wanted to kill you, I wouldn't have fixed you up."

He let go of your wrist.

"Sorry. Habits."

You snorted, muttered 'of course' lowly. You softly dabbed the sweat off his neck. He made a pleasant throaty sound like he was enjoying your touch. You two fell into the comfortable silence until you decided that there was no use in not talking about the obvious, to you at least.

"Did you come here tonight on purpose? For help, I mean."

"What do you mean?"

His head cocked slightly to the side, looking at you as if he could see you through the mask.

"Did you know I was here and that I would be willing to help you ..."

"... Matt Murdock?"

You let his name fall quietly, like a final prayer, connecting two sides of him and shattering the illusion he put up with you. He took in a sharp breath; his whole body tensed up.

"How did you know?"

You huffed out a laugh in disbelief.

"Seriously? It's not that hard connecting the dots, although the concussion did a number on me, and it took quite a bit for me to remember everything from that night. I had my suspicion about you being the masked man since you're blind, or supposed to be, and I still don't know if you're really blind or not, but it was the only explanation."

You didn't tell him, but it was hard not to take notice when his injuries went beyond the busted lips, the scarlet bruises on his cheeks and around his eyes. He could school his expression to be impassive, but you noticed the slight wince he made when he moved his body anyway.

"So, are you actually blind? Or you can see the whole time? Do you have a superpower?" You added.

Matt sighed in defeat. There was no use in hiding anymore. He reached up to push the mask off his face, eyes trained forward.

"No, I am legally blind. When I was 9, I came in contact with a radioactive chemical, which blinded me. But it enhanced my other senses. I can feel and hear things in a wide range."

"So technically, you can somewhat see things around you?"

"Yes, I can only see an outline. Not many details. I can hear more than I can see."

You fell into silence once more. Matt's lips pressed into each other, contemplating something. He wouldn't face you; his fingers fidgeted with the mask.

"Are you upset? That I didn't tell you about ... this?"

He gestured to himself.

Were you upset? You didn't feel like it. You didn't feel like you had the right to be mad at him for not telling you. What was the relationship between the two of you? You talked; you had lunch once; you flirted, occasionally. Who were you to him anyway? So that was what you told him.

"I'm not mad. I don't think I should be because I had no right to. I'm not your friend, Matt. I'm just ... an acquaintance to you, at best."

"Acquaintance? I consider you to be my friend."

Matt responded, a puzzled look on his face.

'But friends don't do what we're doing. Friend doesn't feel what I'm starting to feel for you.'

You kept the thought to yourself. Then, clearing your throat, you asked him.

"Did you know that I would help you, even if I didn't know who you were?"

"Yes, I had no doubt."

He answered with no hesitation. It tugged at your heartstring the fact that he trusted you would take care of a stranger. You wanted to reach for him, caress his face, brush your thumb over the corner of his eyes, over the curves of his lips. You found yourself wanting to violate the code you had set for yourself; the thought was dangerous, bearing red in your vision. You pushed it aside to allow yourself this one small moment.

You took hold of his hand instead, silently swiping your thumb over his bruised and bloody knuckles. He squeezed your fingers, putting his other hand atop of yours. You wished you could soothe the pain, erase the marks that engraved on his body. You knew there was so much more to Matt, but what you hadn't known then was the pain lurking underneath the surface, the perpetuate conflict he had with himself, always threatened to swallow him whole. It didn't matter, nonetheless. The time would pass as your understanding of him grew, welcomed you in the eye of the storm, his storm. Yet, you felt peaceful and at home.

[vannybarber]

The Prenup: Part Four

Summary: After four years of being together and finally being engaged, Chris wants you to sign a prenup.

Chris Evans x Reader

Warnings: angst, swearing, chris getting his ass handed to him, a lot of pain.

Part One Part Two Part Three

As soon as you heard that, you slam the door in his face.

"Y/N, what the hell? Open the door. What are you doin'?"

"No, I'm not opening the door. How are you gonna finally see me and knowing I'm upset with you, greet me with "hi baby"? You fuss at him through the door.

"I'm sorry okay! Can you please open the door? We need to talk."

"Don't raise your voice at me. You're only making it worse for yourself." You shift your weight on the other foot folding your arms. "I can do this all day."

"Come on babe, I'm serious." So were you.

"If I open this door, you better act like you have some sense."

"Alright, alright. Just open the door please."

You hesitantly walk over and open the door seeing him stand in the same position. Your face is torn up and you wrinkle it more when your eyes land on him. Although you won't admit it, a tiny part of you are glad to see him. Just a tiny part.

"Can I come in?" He looks at you and tilts his head sassily.

"Cut the attitude Christopher." You walk away towards the bed signaling he could enter.

"We're not gonna get anything solved with you acting like this" he huffs, slamming the door.

"How do you expect me to act? We wouldn't have anything to solve if you hadn't done all this. All this time you had to think and you still can't get that through your mind."

"I still don't see why you're making such a big deal. This is protecting us both. I don't touch your money, mine doesn't get touched either."

You almost slap him.

"Chris, that's if we were to divorce. We haven't even gotten married and you're already thinking about divorce?" What the fuck is wrong with him?

"You always say to be extra cautious and careful. That's what I'm doing. Megan thinks it's a good idea and when is she ever wrong?"

"You know what's sad Chris? Megan is such a bitch and you can't see it. She literally tries to dictate every little thing you do. She's your publicist, not your wife. You talk about how you love your freedom and independence, which I give to you, but when it comes to her, whatever she says goes."

His hands are rubbing his face, like usual, when he's in a predicament. He's not saying anything, which makes you even more upset, but you continue anyway.

"I truly don't think you understand how you're being right now. You're letting someone else dictate our relationship. You don't even talk to me about it, so I'm sitting on the sidelines watching you play the game. It's clear in itself that you are still not ready to be in a relationship. How? I don't know. You had fucking 4 years."

"Its not that easy, okay? You know how all my past relationships have gone. Somehow I was still being used for everything. Whether it was money, publicity or whatever. You don't get it."

You sigh and run a hand over your forehead. It's obvious you aren't going to get anywhere with this, so what was the point of him even coming here? Hold on.

"How the hell did you even find me? I haven't talked to you all day." He looks up and at the wall, bouncing his leg nervously in the chair he was seated in.

"You had your location on and I drove over here." You roll your eyes and this upsets him. "You freaking left without telling anyone where you were! You could've been hurt. Or even worse."

"I told your momma I was fine." He scoffs.

"You've got to be kidding. You just have to be."

You've had it up to here with this man. Clearly nothing was going to get resolved and both of you are stubborn about it, so you want him gone right away.

"Chris just go. You're wasting time. I told you to come in here with some sense, but you must've left the little that you had at the door."

"You're my future wife. I'm not leaving you. We need to work this out." Haha. That's funny.

"Well according to you, I'm most likely going to be your future ex wife." Okay you were being dramatic but whatever. "Let me help you understand. After 4 years of a relationship, you propose to me. Then you get a prenup behind my back by the advisory of your hating ass publicist. You signed it without even letting me know you had one. Do you not see the issue at hand here?"

You deadpan him for his reaction. You needed some form of indication that he gets what you're saying. That he realizes he's being a dick.

"I mean...I guess? I just didn't think you'd be so bothered. If we never get a divorce then it's fine. The prenup won't matter." He sits up in his chair and looks at you what looks like to be genuine confusion on his face.

Why do you even bother?

"Yes it would matter. Because it will forever be there. And in the back of my mind, I will always feel you picked your money over me." All his confusion washes away at this and is replaced with realization and guilt. "You know me better than most of my own family does. And you know what my intentions are with you. None of them require money. If you didn't have money like you did, I still would be with you Chris. Why? Because I love you."

There's a silence.

"I honestly don't know what to say." And you could tell. Any words he wanted to speak barely got through transformation because he would just clamp his mouth shut.

"Chris I just want to be alone right now, okay? I really don't need this at the moment." Yeah, the fact that you're pregnant. And he still doesn't know. You thought about telling him, but now you want to hold it off being that this didn't go as planned.

"Babe-"

"Chris please. Just do this for me. It's the least you can do." You sit on the bed and cross your legs. You were in a bind that didn't seem to be letting up any time soon.

"Well it was a long drive and I have to use the bathroom." You swat your hand to the restroom for him to go. Anything to get him moving faster. He walks in and shuts the door behind him. Meanwhile, you grab your phone and contemplate whether you should turn your location off. If you kept it on, at least they would know where you were and that you were safe. But you don't want him back here.

After 4-5 minutes or so, you didn't hear the toilet flush and you wonder what he's doing in there.

"Chris what the hell is taking you so long?" The door clicks open and you look, only to see Chris standing in the frame with a pregnancy test in hand.

He has your positive pregnancy test.

You forgot you left them on the sink counter. Fucking idiot. You internally start freaking out and you jump out the bed. He spots you and stares at you. Knowing him for so long, you had never seen this look o his face before. Turns out, it was a look of betrayal. Why would he feel betrayed?

"You're pregnant." His voice is monotonous and his eyes don't leave yours for a second.

You on the other hand, are darting your attention around the room, looking anywhere but at him. You feel a sense of guilt. Probably because you weren't telling him and he had to find out like this.

"Yes- yes I am pregnant" you speak lowly, fiddling with the end of your shirt.

"And its mine right?" That made you mad.

"Of course it is! How the hell could you ask me that?"

"Well I don't know how to fucking feel! You were just gonna let me walk out of here without telling me you're pregnant with my baby!?" Now he's out the bathroom and a few feet away from you.

"I don't owe anything to you right now. I would've told you eventually. When I was ready." He goes silent.

"Are you going to keep it?" This time his voice is meek and lower than his normal tone. You look up and his face is pained. He is all for 'my body my choice' and completely supports that, but he'd be lying if he said that the thought of you, ya know, wouldn't hurt him.

"Yes I am keeping the baby." He let's out a huge breath.

Even though you couldn't have been more than 5 weeks, you had already felt like a bond was formed with your baby. And knowing Chris has wanted kids since forever, you couldn't take that away.

"Well I'm happy." But you still weren't all the way there yet. You didn't forget what had just happen.

"You still need to leave." The little smile on his face had vanished and he looked down.

"Are you gonna come back?" He was making it slightly difficult to keep the same hardness with him. You still loved that man, even through all your anger you have with him.

"I will, just not right now. Or not today at least. I still need to think. I'll be back home eventually." As you're speaking he sets the test back in the bathroom and stuffs his hands in his pockets.

"Well I guess that's better than nothing", he replies still visibly upset. "I guess I'll just head out now." He walks towards the door and hooks his hand on the knob. You quick get up and to your own surprise, you wrap your arms around him.

He's stiff for a few moments, which makes complete sense, but hugs back. You take in his scent and you almost give in. You hadn't smelt him in a while and it drove you crazy. You pull away and adjust your shirt. He looks at you one more time.

"I love you Y/N." You nod your head and he leaves the room.

"I love you too Christopher."

But he couldn't hear you because he was already half way down the hall, thinking about how he was going to make this right.

heehee😏i think this is a little more than what i gave in the last chapter. we're not through yet you guys ❤

@mayafatimakhan @attitude-times @shawn-youth @traceyaudette @kyraroseficreblogs33 @radi0active-thoughts @youthought-iwasa-nicegirl @ohbarracuda @katelyneannxo @jennamarieee623 @craycraycraic @ilikeurdad @captainson-of-coul @joanne-stan @ilovetheeagles @cristinagronk16 @kelbabyblue @onyourgoddamnleft @jessycatth @misz-adrii @geminievans1 @saltyflowermakertaco @a-moment-captured @harrysthiccthighss @dauntless2022 @allboutdatmarvel @ineedpineapple @illyrianprincess @ladycumberbatchofcamelot @thesecretlifeofdaydreamss @marianas-studyblr @obliviatevamps @thevelvetseries @coffeebooksandfandom @shamelessfangirl-3 @quietmyfearswith @kissme-hs @lvgllre @arabescapr @careless-intuition @lady-x-red

[technowoah]

THESEUS - a dsmp story ( DreamSMP x Queen!Reader)

CHAPTER FIVE : AND I REALIZE THREE FUNDAMENTAL TRUTHS AT THE EXACT SAME TIME.

Chapter Summary: You had gotten what you wanted, but at what cost? Nightmares ensue, and Dream’s true colors begin to show.

pairing: c!wilbur x queen!reader

an// IM BACK!! hopefully yall like this chaper cause this is the last one that I wrote in the past, Im writing chapter 6 rn so it might take a while. Also sorry for not posting requests I really wanted to get this chapter out there

⚠︎ swearing, dsmp spoliers(?), angst, arguing, smoking, explosions, gaslighting(?), not proofread.

Series Masterlist 

"Good job you two! This is all yours now.”

Dream had led you and Eret back to the castle, all of them still battered and bruised from the war they recently had. You had already taken off your armor and now you were wearing underneath your L'Manburg outfit that was torn and burnt showing some of your skin which was also burnt or cut. You had noticed on the way to the castle that Dream had kept on looking at the outfit that Eret and you had on with disgust, like a taunt.

You could finally relax in the huge castle that you apparently deserved because you and Eret had taken the first lives of the citizens of L'Manburg. In your heart you knew that L'Manburg was still a country. They all have two more lives and they will build the country up again with those two lives. You sighed then kept walking into the throne room. you looked at the two big thrones that sat next to each other. One for a king and one for a queen.

"Why are you standing there? Sit down! Relax!" Dream patted one of the thrones.

You and Eret had sat down on the thrones next to each other looking around the huge throne room and Dream smiling right in front of them. Once you both sat down you tried to sit up straight, but you wanted to slump down into the comfy, plush, velvet and gold chair. The two of them sat on velvet and gold thrones while in burnt and torn L'Manburg uniforms. It was a sight to see, and if someone didn't know the context of what just happened, this scene would've made sense to them.

"I'm happy you did this. You deserve all of this." Dream said while walking along the marble floor.

"It's beautiful, but I'm exhausted." You let your head fall to the side. You sighed wanting Dream to leave so you could finally get some rest.

"I bet."

"Eret are you okay?" You spoke up after Dream.

Eret had a look that you couldn't make out. He just stared off into space in his own mind. He shook his head after you called for him again.

"Yeah, yeah I am fine. I'm just thinking." Eret quickly responded.

"What are you thinking about?" Dream said in a monotone voice.

"If we did the right thing." Eret sighed.

You slowly nodded because you were thinking the exact same thing. They were traitors, you had built somewhat of a connection with those people you helped kill. And now what? you're living in a huge castle and apparently you "Shouldn't be feeling this way", Dream claimed.

"You two are overreacting. They are fine." Dream said bluntly while staring at them with a straight face.

That was a huge lie, their lives were taken today. They're not just “fine”.

"You two were never a part of that place anyways. This is your home! Why would you need to wear those hideous colors? They look bad on you, it's unflattering. There is no need to go back." Dream explained.

You hang your head not knowing what to say to the man, there wasn’t really anything to say but you spoke up hoping the words will come to you.

"I don't-"

"You don't have to say anything, it's okay. You're safe now. Did you get hurt?" Dream asked.

The bruises and scars said differently.

"Remember when I said that?" Dream pushed the question.

You rubbed a burn mark on your wrist and laughed a bit. "No! Actually I don't. We're safe now, but that doesn't mean we aren't hurt." You chuckled in disbelief.

"Well maybe if you listened to me you wouldn't be so anxious. If you listened you wouldn't have been so hesitant. You're safe." Dream said sternly.

"Maybe you're tired, Dream. We're all tired. Shall we go to bed?" Eret stood up and held out his hand to help you up from your seat.

You accepted his hand and started to follow Eret through the huge castle making your way through the huge, high ceiling halls. The three walked towards the king's and queen's room in the castle, Dream kept a slower pace and walked behind the two wanting to get one more word in before leaving the castle.

"If you two are ever in doubt just remember that you are on the right side of history." Dream said then turned around to leave the two alone.

You both stopped and turned around to see Dream’s back facing the both of you as he walked away. You and Eret eventually made it to your new bedrooms. There was a big door which held a huge room made for the both of them to sleep in and two separate rooms next to the bigger door which were made for one person. Eret and you stood in front of the bigger door staring at the intricate designs on the door not speaking to each other.

"So?" Eret laughed.

"So!" You exclaimed while chuckling.

"Are you okay sleeping in that huge room tonight?" Eret asked.

"I'm not totally comfortable with that, but it would be weird if we slept in the same bed. Don't get me wrong! You're a great friend, but-"

"Y/N/N stop! I'm okay with that too. I wasn't looking to sleep in the same bed. Yes we're married, but we're just staying friends, hey we might get a divorce later." Eret explained.

"If I do, we won't be king and queen anymore." You said softly to your husband.

"Is that what you want? To be "queen"?" Eret asked while putting air quotes around the word queen.

You paused for a moment then answered his question.

"I don't know where I'm supposed to be, Eret." You looked up at him sadly and he pulled you in for a hug. It took you everything you had to not cry into the L'Manburg uniform Eret was wearing. Today drained you mentally and physically, your hands were raw from shooting arrows, you had burn marks on your skin and your feet hurt from running through the kingdom. You weren’t sure about where you would go, because this didn't feel like your home.

"Let's go to bed and we'll talk in the morning. Rest on it because I'll happily divorce you so you can find your place in this huge kingdom." Eret laughed and let you out of his arms.

You chuckled and then let him go walking into what was supposed to be the queen's room and right next to it was the king's room which they both walked in after saying goodnight and closing their doors finally having time to themselves after a long day.

You finally took off the L'Manburg uniform and laid it on a velvet chair in the corner of the huge room. You stared at the uniform before going to the nearest closet and picking out something to wear for that night. The queen's room was basically the huge couple's room that you found before, but just with a smaller bed. There were still trinkets, jewelry and even clothes in the closet. you took a nightgown out of the closet and sat on the plush bed. You ended up laying down staring at the high ceiling thinking of the predicament Eret's question brought.

You finally retired for the night and crawled into bed and got under the soft covers. The window was open so a soft cool breeze was blowing through the room letting the curtains flow with the breeze. If you left you wouldn't have anywhere to go except back to L'Manburg, they would never let you back even if you tried. They probably hated your guts by now, so maybe divorcing wasn't a good idea. You had a set home here, you had food, clothes, and you weren't under attack every minute. you didn't have to watch your back for any enemies.

Your mind slowed down as you finally lulled yourself into a deep sleep forgetting the troubles in your mind for only a moment.

-------------------

The sunset fell over the horizon making it a gold, red color. It was beautiful. The trees were illuminated and the lakes had a certain glow to them. you could see mobs began to crawl out of the ground and caves, but you was safe up here.

You looked down and saw the familiar obsidian walls. It seemed like a faint memory, but in reality the walls were real. It was like you could feel the stone underneath your feet at this moment. you could see inside L'Manburg.

you saw Tubbo and Tommy laying in the grass talking to one another. you saw Fundy sleeping in the grass next to them. There were two new faces you had never seen before. It was a woman with short pink hair and another man with a shaved head. It might've been your mind putting people in your dreams to fill space. Then you saw Eret sitting by a small river letting his bare feet flow in the water. It was a peaceful scene.

"Beautiful sunset isn't it?" A voice showed up beside you.

It was Wilbur. He had his uniform on, it was clean like the war didn't even happen.

"It is really beautiful." You agreed watching the sun continue to lower over the trees.

"You know everything the sun touches is yours? It's all of ours. It just so happens that you can see the sunset and sunrise from L'Manburg. You can do anything as long as you see the sun rise and fall." Wilbur said, keeping his gaze soft at the sunset.

You hummed but stayed quiet admiring his words and the sunset.

"Let me tell you what I wish I'd known when I was young and dreamed of glory. You have no control who lives, who dies, who tells your story. After you took one of my lives away I understand now. You can't control other people and their motivations."

You hang your head in disappointment, but then Wilbur continued.

"But I know that we can win. I know that greatness lies in you, but remember from here on in that history has its eyes on you. History will forever have its eyes on you no matter what you do." Wilbur looked into your eyes as the sun set on the two of them the stars began to shine.

The light brown eyes Wilbur had turned darker because of the sunlight being gone. You looked out back at the mobs in the forest and the huge towers in the sky made the kingdoms members. you turned around and looked into L'Manburg. Or what was considered L'Manburg.

There was no one there anymore, instead of people there were huge amounts of TNT that filled the walls behind them. you could hear faint voices around them, people that you didn't know. It sounded like chaos. you whipped your head around to Wilbur who was dressed in a brown tattered trench coat, brown pants, and a white shirt instead of the L'Manburg uniform.

He had a cigarette in his mouth and matches in his hands. He smirked at you as the voices around you got louder and your head sounded like you were in the middle of a tornado. your head was buzzing as your eyes couldn't focus on Wilbur in front of you. It felt like these moments were happening right in front of your all at one time.

"You want to be a hero Tommy?"

"You know if I die, this country goes down with me."

"if respect is the only thing protecting you from a knife in the back, then respect is nothing, right?"

"Kill me, Phil. Phil, kill me, Phil kill me! Phil, stab me with the sword, murder me now, kill me! Look-"

"You know Y/N" Wilbur started next to you. He lit a match and turned around to L'Manburg which was now filled with TNT.

"Somethings. Somethings were never meant to be." He threw the match into the huge pile of TNT and all in a second the obsidian underneath your feet disappeared as you fell into the explosion beneath you.

-------------------------

"Fuck! Where am I?!" You shot up from your sleeping position in a cold sweat.

You frantically felt around the bed trying to convince yourself that you were physically at the castle in your bed. You finally caught your breath and laid back down in your bed finding yourself staring at the ceiling again. Even with the window open blowing cool air into the room, your skin still felt hot. You ended up tossing the covers off of you and making your way towards the entrance of the kingdom to get some air.

That dream was so much stuff in it you couldn't comprehend all of it. It was like Wilbur was there as if he was talking to you directly and it wasn't a dream and it made you second guess yourself and think that it may have not been a dream. You finally made it outside and sat on one of the steps that led people up into the kingdom. you sighed and breathed in the fresh air and it immediately relaxed your body and mind. You were alive, you were here and sadly Wilbur wasn't there. You closed your eyes and felt the breeze around you until you were startled by a figure beside you.

"You're up late. I thought you said you were mentally tired." Dream chuckled sitting beside you.

"I had a bad dream." You sighed.

"Hey don't take my name in vain like that" Dream laughed trying to bring up your mood.

Dream sighed and stood back up when he didn't get a response from his companion.

"Come one, let's go. Let's get your mind off of the one bad dream." Dream held his hand out, gesturing to you to take it.

You took his hand and then released it letting him lead the way to wherever the wind may take them. The dream is currently still stuck in your head. The voices from different people confused you and made your head spin.

"You want to be a hero Tommy?" What did that mean? Was someone threatening Tommy? Will someone threaten Tommy? You grew to care for that kid.

Who said "If I die, this country goes down with me"? What country. L'Manburg?

"If respect is the only thing protecting you from a knife in the back, then respect is nothing, right?" That one stumped you the most. you didn't even know if this was being spoken to you or to someone else. All of them except for the Tommy one.

Were they all even dreams? The one that haunted your mind the most was the one where someone was telling a man named Phil to kill them. Were you there for that moment? Did Phil kill the person? Who was Phil? All these thoughts and questions plagued your mind so much that your feet mindlessly carried you wherever Dream led you to.

"Here we are." Dream led You on top of a hill, a tall enough hill to see the main attraction. The place you missed the most, L'Manburg.

Tears started to form in your eyes and you tried blinking them away. All the moments of that dream appeared in your brain, but even stronger. you never felt these emotions before. Maybe L'Manburg was your home all along. you missed seeing Tubbo, Tommy, Eret and Fundy doing their own thing while your and Wilbur had a deep talk inside the van. you had spent weeks with them growing too attached to them and then ended up becoming a traitor.

"That place. You never belonged there. You're too good for them." Dream started and you stayed quiet watching the stars begin to disappear.

"Do you trust me?" Dream asked.

You stayed quiet not having the answer he wanted to hear. He wanted to hear you say that you trusted him when in reality you couldn’t, you weren't fully there yet, not anymore. 

"They lied to you. It's not your home." Dream continued on letting you listen and not talk.

"How did you know if someone said it was my home or not?" You asked, startled.

"I might've been keeping an eye on you. I wanted to make sure my flower was okay." Dream kept his gaze on L'Manburg.

"Stop calling me that." You sighed.

"I never started. This was the first time I said that. Who called you flower?" Dream suddenly got serious, staring at you.

you kept your sights on the obsidian walls, not sparing him a glance. The stars began to fade and the sun peeked over the horizon. As they stayed longer the sun rose over the walls of L'Manburg. You started to remember the words in the dream you had.

"You know everything the sun touches is yours? It's all of ours. It just so happens that you can see the sunset and sunrise from L'Manburg. You can do anything as long as you see the sun rise and fall."

L'Manburg stands for independence. Independence. That word kept ringing through your head like a mantra until a few voices below the hill and near the walls alerted you.

"HEY! Hey Wilbur! Give me back my shit!" Tommy yelled as he stomped after the older man.

"Wilbur get Tommy to stop shouting and give him his swords back please!" Fundy yelled trailing behind the two.

"No not until he learns not to go start stabbing shit!" Wilbur yelled back at the other two.

You missed that. you missed the bickering and the nonsense they all shared. you were upset that Tommy still hadn't learned his lesson and you wished you were there beside them at that moment.

Dream spoke up giving you a look you couldn’t quite get. "You are never allowed to step inside those walls again.

"What gives you the right to tell me what and what not to do? Who does that make you? Who do you think-"

"YOU ARE NEVER ALLOWED TO GO IN THOSE WALLS!" Dream yelled getting dangerously close to you.

You continued to stare at those blue eyes as the bright sun rose over the dark walls of L’Manburg. you didn't say anything but descended down the mountain alone with the sounds of Tommy, Fundy, and Wilbur bickering in the background, wishing you were there and not next to the man next to you who was staring at you angrily.

"I know what’s good for you! I know what's good for this country! Just trust me Y/N!" Dream yelled starting an argument

"Would you calm down! You came here to be all quiet and now you're yelling at me. You might want to be quiet before Wilbur hears you. Or do you want me to get him myself?" You yelled back, getting furious.

"Oh you wish! He doesn't care for you as much as me, Sapnap and George do! They agree as well!"

"Don't put words into his mouth!" You accused

"Oh! So if he cares so fucking much he would've help save you. And do you know what would happen if he saved you?! You would've died! I saved you! You were in a perfect situation and all you had to do is not complain! You're always overreacting." Dream ended with a huff and rolled his eyes while turning away..

you were speechless at this point. Overwhelming emotions consumed you. you couldn't believe you were overreacting. Maybe Wilbur wasn't everything you needed. you were overreacting, you were being selfish too. Dream was right. Dream walked over to you pulling you in a hug with L'Manburg was still in your sights.

"I did everything because I love you. You're too precious for them, you're not for them. They don't deserve you, you deserve someone who wants the best for you. A flower that needs a home and I'm here to give it to you." Dream softly explained.

Your eyes kept tearing up at the words and different emotions flowing through you. The sights on L'Manburg make your memories and questions come back. Where did you belong? But more importantly who was telling the truth?

Taglist: @hi-imuwu @k-l-a-w-s

[sebstanseabass]

Afterglow (A Bucky Barnes AU fan fiction) - Chapter 13

Afterglow chapters

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x reader

A/N: Future you, r u okkkk

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

You stared at Bucky and the gentleman who was with him named Sam Wilson, completely dumbfounded; as if they both had three heads. They were seated across from you, Bucky with a glass of water, and Sam with a bottle of beer in his hand. Sam was just finishing his beer, as well as his speech about his business proposal which had to do with you taking photos of his new products, and models.

Bucky introduced Sam as a long-time friend and an owner of a sporting fit apparel named The Falcons. The name did ring a bell as soon as you heard it. You suddenly remembered passing through it while you and Bucky were strolling down Fifth Street, vaguely telling you about a friend who owned it and six other stores scattered in California, Chicago, London, and Australia (and was planning to branch out more in Asian countries); and here he was right in front of you, hiring you as a photographer for his big-time business.

Sam didn't give you a sliver of time to intervene with his flawless little speech he had committed to memory, as he spoke so fast. Some words were even incomprehensible to you — or perhaps it was just because the world was still whirling around you, given the prior event that just took place.

And now this.

You tried to give Bucky some kind of signal by giving him a look but he encouraged Sam further and urged you to listen to his proposal.

"So, y/n..." Sam rested his hands on the wooden table, his attention solely focused on you. "What do you think?"

If only you could tell him the truth that your mind was completely blank, you would. But you didn't want to embarrass yourself or Bucky for that matter, so you just gave him a smile and did the first thing you could think of. "Mr. Wilson — "

"Oh, you can just call me Sam. There's no need for formalities."

You nodded. "Sam... Do you mind if I have a little discussion with Bucky? It will just take a moment."

Sam leaned back on the cushioned couch of the booth and nodded. "Of course. Take all the time you need."

You didn't give Bucky the time to question why so you immediately stood up, grabbed Bucky's hand from across the booth and dragged his body towards one of the closets the bar rarely used. You closed the door behind you, and switched the light on. Even with the small lightbulb hanging from the ceiling, the inside of the closet still looked dingy, and the dust crawling on the walls and flying in the tight air space were clearly evident.

"Bucky, what the hell is going on?"

"Isn't it great?"

You smacked his arm. "Steve just told me he's getting me fired so that I can focus on my career as a photographer."

"That's even greater!"

You smacked his arm harder this time. "I'm not done." You hissed. "He's giving me one week to figure things out and then I'm fired. If I don't have shit figured out in that one week, I'm not gonna be able to pay for bills. Did you say something to Steve when you came here this morning? Don't lie to me, James."

He was rubbing his arm, brows furrowed. "I told him nothing."

"You showed him the photos I took last night. What was that all about?"

He sighed in defeat. "I just made him realize that you needed to be out there and not stuck here. You said it yourself, y/n, you're stuck in a rut and the only way to get yourself moving is to break from that routine. To go out there and explore the world."

"And then you just swoop in and bring your friend?"

"Yes."

"So, Steve just happens to realize that I needed to go out there and explore the world, and then it just so happens that your friend needs someone to photograph for his business?" You scoffed. "Bucky, do you expect me to believe that this is just one big coincidence? That you're not the one pulling all the strings in this little weird puppet show?"

"Yes, okay, I may have done something about those, said something, but — "

"Oh my god, you can't do that." You had the urge to get some air, and to pace back and forth as you tried to put your thoughts into words, but the space felt tighter the more you spoke. "You can't just walk into people's lives and, and... control everything! This is not just about chasing a dream, this is also about survival. I'm not rich like you. I don't have a safety net when things fall apart. You... You can't put all your trust in me."

"Well, someone needs to." Bucky sternly answered. "And if that someone should be me then so be it."

"I don't even know why you're going to great lengths for me." You looked down on the floor. "I... I don't get it, Bucky. I don't get you at all."

"Hey, hey, hey, listen to me, doll." His hands made contact with your skin, lifting your face to look at his blue eyes. "I apologize for taking things too far, I guess I could act so rash as well but I just wanted to do what I know is right and what would make you happy. Seeing you last night was... heartbreaking."

"So, you pity me." You sighed. "Everybody does."

"Call it what you want, y/n. But people who pity you won't ever believe in you and in what you do. But here I am putting all my trust in you. Your boss Steve does too. And Sam." A smile formed on his lips, making the insides of you flip.

"Your friend Sam sounds like a big deal and he hasn't even seen my photos. How can he trust me to do all this for him?"

"I put my word in for you. I told him if I was wrong, then to hell with me. And if you're worried about people assisting you during the shoot, don't. Sam has people all over and he just needs your beautiful eyes and hands and brain." He laughed. "Sam's a good guy and you're not going to be working for some big corporation. I know you hate those. This is perfect for you, trust me. And right now, all I need you to do is say yes to Sam, say yes to me, and most especially say yes to yourself. Please?"

The atmosphere became lighter, and the room didn't feel that tight any longer. His flattering words forever engraved in your mind. His warm hands stayed on both sides of your face, his face pleading.

You sighed and nodded your head slowly, finally convinced. "Okay, yes."

A grin started to crawl to his face and for a moment, his face drew closer to yours. "Okay, good. Now let's get out of here and tell Sam the good news."

You nodded but a touch of disappointment came, as Bucky's hands left your face. You never knew the presence of Bucky's skin against yours was one thing you could miss. You didn't even know if you should.

As soon as you sat down, you told Sam the good news and quickly ordered a bottle of champagne. You were supposed to get it for them but Bucky told you to sit down and let loose for a while, so you did.

Nat approached the booth with the cold champagne, and some glasses. She bent down and whispered to you, "You better tell me what's going on here. I wanna hear everything."

Sure, she did. Nat always wanted to. When it comes to water cooler gossip or any kind of gossip for that matter, Nat always wanted to dig her nose into other people's stuff. With a wink and a slight sway on the hips, she retreated to the counter and took more of people's orders. Beside her, you noticed Nick steal a glance in your direction but was averted away by people trying to get their drinks.

"Alright, let's toast." Sam declared. Bucky was just finishing filling yours when you focused your attention back at the two gentlemen in front of you. You thanked Bucky and mirrored Sam as he raised his glass. Bucky followed, his eyes with a luster glaze on you. "To new partners, beginnings, and to y/n."

"Thank you, Sam." You laughed, clinking your glasses. "And to Bucky, for trusting me enough to do this."

"To Bucky who wouldn't leave me alone until I said yes." Sam replied, emptying his glass.

You gave Bucky a look and shook your head. Being the cheeky man he was, the ends of his lips curved slightly which triggered the beat of your heart. The sudden changes you have been feeling when it came to Bucky have been scaring you but it wasn't a "bad scary"; it was the kind that excited everything inside you. A thrilling feeling that left you wanting more.

At the taste of the sprinkling cold champagne, for a moment, you were brought back to last night's events. A montage-like of red, blue and white lights illuminating the street, Howard waiting in the limousine, Wandavision, and then Bucky. After that, it was just Bucky's presence beside you and as you looked back at him, all you could think about was his soft warm lips pressed on your forehead. The entirety of it felt like you were living a dream — there were parts you couldn't remember and parts that you could, and the latter were just the ones you kept replaying in mind (even with Bucky in front of you), trying to imbue this dream-like memory and convince yourself that it was a memory.

Nat's voice pulled you out of your thoughts (and boy, were you thankful for it). "Hey, your shift's almost ending." She reminded you, passing by the booth, then turned to face Bucky and Sam. "Anything you want from the menu, boys?"

"No, thank you." Bucky replied then turned to you. "We should also be heading up."

"Oh." Nat's change in voice was so evident that you wanted to pull her out of here as soon as possible. "You guys are heading up, huh?" She teased, her eyes now on you.

"It's not what you think." You said. "He's just looking after me. Parker's gone to some corporate retreat for a week."

"Man, you're a babysitter!" Sam butted in, punching Bucky's arm lightly. "Oh, I can't believe this."

"No, I'm not."

"You can't even take care of your damn self, how are you gonna take care of her?"

"Shut up, Sam!"

"He's actually taking good care of me." You said, looking at Bucky.

"I'm sure he is." Nat chuckled which made you step on her foot. She cleared her throat in response.

"Anyway, I gotta go say goodbye to Steve." You said, standing up. "Hey Nat, do you want me to say hi to him for you?"

With her mouth slightly open, and eyes furrowed, she replied very slowly. "No."

You smirked. "Okay then."

You headed towards Steve's office, leaving Nat stunned in her place. Steve's office was slightly open so you didn't bother knocking and just went inside. "Hey, Steve. I'm off for tonight."

"Sure." He replied. "Hey, about earlier."

"What about it?"

"I'm doing it because I truly believe in you." He smiled. "And your new friend Bucky does so too."

You smiled at him right back. "Yes, Steve. Thank you."

"Take care, y/n."

"You too, boss!"

And with that, you headed towards the booth where Bucky and Sam were.

Out on the side of the street, the three of you parted ways, Sam hailing a cab and you and Bucky heading towards the apartment building. Once the elevator doors opened, you stepped inside and was greeted by its metallic smell.

"Hey, Bucky?" You said, quickly grabbing his attention. "T-thank you for this and for basically everything you've done for me for the past few days."

"Please, you don't have to thank me for this. I'm just really glad I'll be able to help you."

"And I promise once I get my shit done, have money and everything, I'm gonna pay you back — "

"Hey, hey, hey." He cut you off. "Who said anything about paying me back? You don't have to do that, okay?"

"But I feel like this is all too much, like, there's this thing tying me to you."

"Is that a bad thing?" He asked.

"When it comes to money, yeah kinda. And you've bought me all kinds of stuff — "

"Y/n, just..." He sighed. "You don't have to do or say anything. You don't have to worry about paying me back and even if you will, I won't ever ever accept it. Can we leave it at that?"

You sighed in response, the little ding! right on time. "Yeah, okay."

By the time you got in the apartment, you practically ran towards your room because of how exhausted you were but before you could even open the door, there was one more thing you needed to do.

"Bucky?"

“Yes?”

"I-I'm sorry again about last night and no," he was about to do his face whenever he cuts you off, "please, don't cut me off, let me finish."

Bucky walked towards you, his back facing Peter's room.

"This is about what I said... when I asked you to, uh, kiss me. You were right to stop me. I was drunk, sad and vulnerable and the moment wasn't right. It wasn't right. I would have regretted it the next day and would be so ashamed to face you. I might actually avoid you for a month." You sighed. "I'm really sorry you had to see that side of me. A kiss at that moment would be really inappropriate. When we — if we ever do, um, it wouldn't be like that... just like what you said. You said that right? You said, and I quote, not like this. 'Cause I keep hearing your voice saying that in my head." Bucky nodded, affirming it. "Okay. Um, yeah so in conclusion... I am sorry."

He slowly smiled, nodding his head. "You make a lot of speeches."

"Yeah, I'm the queen when it comes to it."

"And apology accepted, of course."

You warmed up with a smile. "Okay, thank you. Good night."

“Good night, doll."

Once you turned around, you felt a strong force on your arm, spinning your body which then collided with Bucky's, together with his lips crashing on yours.

It was like an impulse you couldn't avoid: for you to close your eyes, to move your lips in his rhythm, and to savor his breath. He tasted like cold champagne, and mint, with a hint of coffee. His lips, luscious, warm and soft; you were afraid of tearing them apart with your teeth. He kissed you with all the fervor of a lover. A lover talked about in books, movies, in fairytales.

Bucky's hands found their way around your hips, pulling you closer towards his body, while you rested yours on the sides of his face, pulling every inch of him, craving more of him. Slowly, you opened your eyes and tore your faces only an inch apart, foreheads touching. Lips empty but still hungry. You stayed right where you were; You never dared move an inch and so did he. You were still like statues. The only movement was the rapid rise and fall of your breathing.

Bucky's hands slid from your waist. You felt his fingers on the nape of your neck, his thumb tracing your lower lip and giving it a small, passionate kiss.

"Just like this, doll." He whispered. "Just like this."

[liptonsbabe]

Havoc [Thomas]

A Maze Runner fanfiction

//

Summary: When the reader, the second-in-command of the village goes out into the maze looking for a way out, the last thing she hopes to find is a whole new community on the other side of the walls. Much less, when it seems to be inhabited only by boys her age.

Warnings: none

A/N: Hey! This is my very first fanfic here and i decided to start with some tmr stuff ;) English not my mother language so please let me know if something is wrong. Anyways, enjoy!

Chapter one: Leaving home

YOU WAKE UP THAT DAY WITH AN INCREDIBLE MOOD, although things in the village were not encouraging at all.

The dew hadn't fallen yet when you were already in front of the maze, impatiently waiting for the doors to open. You were carrying a backpack with the breakfast on your back, the belt resting on your hips, and an awl strategically hidden in your back pocket.

You didn't understand why your heart was beating so fast even if the night before had been the worst of all. The disease was progressing, it was devastating the village and the parents were leaving their children alone. You trembled in your place. You've never seen anything like that before. The illness, the confusion, the tiredness, the agony. The desease was ending with all of you. If you and the trackers didn’t find a way out as you had promised, then the village would be devastated.

You couldn't allow it. You weren't going to give up. Maybe the answer was out there, waiting for you and you weren't going to keep it waiting.

Maybe the feeling of your restless heart was a good sign. Maybe your heart was sensing things that you could not know and, with a little bit of luck, get it right as he almost always did.

The village had exits from its four points, so, as the sun was in the west that day, you decided to start with the east gate, considering it a good sign. You pulled your hair up in a high ponytail, ate an apple as fast as you could, and waited for the doors to move.

A curtain of dust and pebbles rose in front of your face as you listened the doors opening. That day the main corridor to the maze had a strange smell, but you thought that your nose was already damaged by the medicines and infusions that you had been smelling in the nursery, so you ignored it. You adjusted your boots waiting for the stench to disperse when a strong pull carried you backwards, scaring you.

“What the hell...? Asenat! "You muttered releasing the grip on your shirt. The girl smiled haughtily, crossing her arms over her chest “How many times do I have to tell you to not pull me like that? I hate being pulled!

“You can do it as many times as you want, I honestly don't care, I'll keep doing it anyways”

“You're an idiot”

“Where do you think you are going?” Cassidy asked, standing next to Asenat, both of them staring at you with their arms crossed over their chests and frowning. You rolled your eyes

“To do my job, the same as you should be doing right now”

"You are no longer a tracker”

“I am the leader, I can give myself that position”

"Second leader," Asenat corrected you, "After Richard, and he was the one who gave you the order to stay in the village, remember?"

You clicked your tongue as the trackers were already leaving to the maze. Asenat caught your shirt between her fingers again preventing you from running. Cassidy sighed, shaking her head. If something was clear to them about you, it was how stubborn you could be.

“Yes, I remember”

"Do you still have those headaches?"

"No," you lied. You'd been feeling terrible headaches for a couple of weeks now, before Richard fell sick from what the villagers called the glow. The man, who was also a tracker, had found you in the middle of your section with a terrible bruise on the back of your head and a pool of blood surrounding you. He carried you to the village, and when you were sufficiently recovered, you mentioned having a terrible pain and falling unconscious hitting the stone. Richard didn't need to know more to remove you from your job, forbidding you to return to the maze until your headaches were better. Until the night before you hadn't felt any pain, so you assumed you were fine “I'm great, don't worry about me. It was an accident”

"Yeah, are you sure?"

“Completely”

"Even if it were so, you are not allowed to go out," Cassidy said, determined. "We need you here, my friend."

"I'll be back before dark”

"Things don't work that way anymore," Cassidy replied, looking at you with a frown. "Richard hasn't died yet." His rules are still ours and since when we can do whatever we want?

“Don’t say it like that”

"You know Richard is not going to survive" Asenat lowered her voice preventing any other villagers from hearing her "he will die like the rest of the infected and when that happens all this will be over. We can continue with the rules that he made, but that will not be enough. There are families dying every day, our duty is to take care of them. We have a pact, okay? Treat the disease first, look for a way out later”

"How long are we going to keep waiting?" You asked, taking a step forward. Asenat sighed, "Three? Four? Another five years? This place is falling apart. If we really want to help the remaining villagers we need to find a way out, take them home, give them a better life, heal them "

"Nobody assures us that we will be better out there than here"

"Let's take the risk, we won't lose anything just by trying"

"We have kids in here, even babies. Their parents have died and they depend on us.

"This time it will be different" you said looking at them pleadingly "It's crazy, but something tells me that today we will find the answers we have been looking for. I could assure you that. Do you believe me? Do you trust me enough to believe in what my heart feels?”

Cassidy and Asenat looked at each other. Richard was still sick, confined to his cabin with the doctors trying to keep him alive. The night before he had lost part of the skin on his arms and his uncontrollable anger had made them tie him to the bed, however, that didn’t mean that in his small lapses of serenity he did not realize what was happening in the village.

Asenat shrugged her arms, leaving the decision to Cassidy. In her role as a teacher, she had no say in that situation and she didn't really care too much. You were reckless and almost always clumsy, but you had good ideas and that had helped you become te mainstay of the village. However Cassidy as the third in charge represented the third head of the monster. She would be the leader at Richard's death and if you didn't get back from the maze in time and that terrified her. She was not afraid of responsibility, nor making important decisions, but that represented visualizing a future where the three of you were not together and she preferred not to think about it.

"You know we do," she replied. "There hasn't been a single day when we doubted in your good judgment, but ..."

"It's different," Asenat said rubbing her chin. "The village doesn't feel like it used to. We are used to death, we can handle it, but the feeling of having it lurking over our heads is unbearable. The maze is not better. It is changing. I listen to it every night. The steel lobsters clattering through the halls. The giant woke up and will not go back to sleep”

"Cassidy," you called her, squeezing her hands. The girl sighed, thinking of the possibilities you guys had. Staying with your arms crossed was not an option, but neither was breaking the trust Richard had placed in all of you. Asenat watched you. The three of you shared the same fear, the same confusion and the same dread of losing the entire village. There were children who required the presence of someone capable to guide them, men and women waiting in fear to be infected with the glow and babies crying to feel the arms of their dead parents. You clenched her hands tighter. You needed to be covered for a few hours only and, in return, you would find the way out. You could do it, you trusted your instincts “Please...”

Cassidy sighed.

"We'll cover you until lunchtime, that's all."

"I only need that”

"Come back in one piece, will you?" She begged, looking at a small boy approaching. You leaned down, taking him in your arms letting out a groan as you picked him up. George was eight years old, he didn't weigh the same as five years ago. You kissed his cheek, returning him to the ground “The boy would go nuts if something happened to you”

"Are you going back to the maze?" George asked looking at you with his huge brown eyes. You nodded. Then you were hit by the little boy's suffocating embrace “the lobsters will hurt you!

"They are asleep now”

"They can wake up!"

"I doubt it little one. Don’t worry, I'll be fine. I'll be back at noon and we'll have a snack together, what ya think?”

“You promise?

“I promise”

"Okay, you can go," he said. You laughed, ruffling his hair

"Thanks, puppy. Stay with Asenat, okay? She can scold you while I'm gone”

"Ya’ heard it, boy," Asenat said, rubbing her knuckles at the top of his head. George complained, "You will stay with me the rest of the day and help me teach the little ones how to count to ten.

“That's not fair!”

"Life isn't fair, brat." Come on, maybe we can grab some chocolate from the kitchen later, huh?”

Asenat held out her hand and George took it enthusiastically as they walked together towards the largest cabin that you used as a classroom. George spun on his feet saying goodbye with a bright smile on his face. You blew him a kiss and Asenat turned to show you her middle finger. You smiled

"Take care of him, will you?" I highly doubt that Asenat will do it properly”

"I'm going to watch her. Now go before I regret it. And (Y/N)” She said, stopping you as you walked towards the main corridor of the maze. You turned around, waiting for his words “Don't die out there. The maze stinks enough to add the stench of a corpse” You nodded. It was a fair deal

“No prob”

You finished your run in your section faster than you expected. The meal would not be until three hours later so you decided to make a stop to rest. You sat on the floor against a wall. Hot sweat was running down your neck and the fucking headache was back. You closed your eyes, tired. It was terribly hot, and the stench of rotting meat numbed your nose.

You drank water, the little sip you had left, and put it back in your backpack. You were going to eat some of the apple slices you took with you, but the pain in the back of your head kept you from even chewing. You stood up wanting to continue your hike when the headache went down your neck and then numbed your spine. You leaned against the wall. It was covered in vines, moss, and fungus. You wiped your palms on your pants and started walking again.

The migraine erased your sight. For a second the world around you seemed to move in luminous spirals forcing you to close your eyes. The sound lightened and you swore you heard a static signal on your eardrums.

The floor spined over and over again. You dug your nails into the palms of your hands feeling the blood pour out from the sides, staining the stone. You heard the drops hiting the floor and suddenly everything stopped.

You were sweating. Your soaked shirt stuck to your body, your hair matted on your forehead and you opened your eyes. Pushing back the hair you noticed that this was not your section, that in some inexplicable way the maze had changed drastically and there was no way to return home.

Your heart beat madly. You fell to the ground on your knees, your head aching every second screaming in agony. You crawled down the corridor without understanding its course, but recognizing small fragments of leaves pointing a path to the north.

was that the way out? You, without being aware of the pain, could you have operated some kind of lever, changing the composition of the maze, leaving it unrecognizable? You weren't sure.

You kept crawling. The leaves spreading across the path, turning into a corridor covered in dust and dirt. You complained in pain and in the confusion, you managed to hear voices from the other side.

You buried your nails in the stone rising up. You pulled forward slowly approaching until you reached the exit (or the entrance?) of the maze. The wind ruffled your hair. Then your hands touched the green grass and the pain stopped.

You stayed alert. Your senses fading little by little from fatigue. Your head ached, your hands ached, your back ached. You heard the clear voice of a boy and, unaware of it, you got up as best as you could.

You got up with the help of the leaves on the wall. You narrowed your eyes focusing on the meadow stretching out in front of you. It was not the village, it was not the exit. The walls of the maze were surrounding the meadow and you could only think that the pain had caused you allusions.

Then the torture returned. You clenched your teeth. Your vision became blurry, however you could distinguish completely unknown figures in the mist. Your ears recognized voices, men's voices, and, unable to bear another second, you fainted.

[emily-the-fae]

Sound of a Heartbeat

Part 5. Walking makes the road

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 6

Unbelievable, but I'm finally back with a new chapter. I've been going through a lot of stuff with my studies and personal life for the past month and here it comes. Finally done with the editing. Most definitely not the best chapter in the story, but it has to be here to keep the storyline together and moving. Anyways, enjoy. Like and comment if you do, I'm very happy to receive feedback.

PS Dracula back to the story soon:)

I still have no beta and English isn't my mothertongue.

Pairing: Dracula X OC

Warnings: probably none, skeletons on sticks...the usual stuff

Wandering into the lands ruled over by darkness itself has never been pleasant.

The next morning was freezing cold, just as the passing night - no warmth was brought by the little sunlight that came - and upon waking up Shari briefly wondered how she wasn't dead of the cold yet. Her mornings were something like crawling out of a tomb every time - the kind she imagined when she heard the stories of vampires awakening, though no doubt they must have still felt better than she did. Those bastards.

Morning light was dim and weak, there were torn scraps of greyish mist laying low above the ground and the forest was eerily quiet. Shari knew the sun had to be very low, but nevertheless up, which meant that she had to be on the move already, and yet she couldn’t force herself to move a single inch, as if the forces of the castle were sensing her approach and weakening her on purpose.

She hadn't entered any towns - in fact, hadn't seen any in the previous eight hours or so of her walking the day before - and though her food supplies weren't awfully low, her health seemed to be protesting and weakening at hourly rate, demanding normal human conditions and rest. She needed warmth and a bed, and she was sure as hell that where she was heading she would either get those only already in Dracula's den, or won't get it at all.

- So? Are you up? Heading? The faster you rise, the faster we'll be there, - Shari sat back against the tree trunk, taking a gulp of cold water from her flask - she wouldn't mind Trevor's whiskey right now, but the hunter took it all with him; Rodo was seemingly relieved that he was free of his duty of being her personal heater, he jumped up and ran around the forest opening, stretching his stiff muscles. At least someone had energy left.

- You know I'm really beginning to hate you now... - she yawned.

- I believe you have already mentioned that.

- Not enough, apparently.

- Oh, come on, you like my company. Besides I'm the only one helping you so hey...

- Ok, ok can I get my food at least?

- You can eat on the go! Come on! - she whistled for Rodo even though she knew he couldn't hear her. Shari stood up purposefully slowly and made the first hesitant steps to follow her guide. Oh where were those wonderful times when she could stay in bed almost all day if she was feeling under the weather? She could kill for such a possibility at the given moment. There was a screech of another winged demon somewhere in the distance, Shari shuddered, brought out of her thoughts and Rodo turned his head briefly, seemingly considering whether he should bolt to search for the other creature, but quickly averted his muzzle from the direction and followed Shari, jumping from tree to ground and back up.

It was going to be a long day.

- Did you walk the same way? First time you found his castle? - the scenery about them was dreadful to say the very least. The forest was greyer now, less green, less alive than on the route before. The few small villages they passed were seemingly abandoned completely for decades if not centuries and Shari felt rather than acknowledged that the farther she went, the worse it would become.

- Not quite, - Lisa replied, her voice all too lively for a ghost. - The direction I came from was a bit more disturbing than here, - Shari briefly wondered how that should have looked, if this desolation seemed lively in comparison. - And I also went alone you know, so...

- Oh, yes, thank you, my wise guide for leading my way... Probably to the dinner table of a very aggressive vampire, - Shari bowed mockingly, then coughed again, swallowing the blood the pooled to her mouth.

- Calm down. There won't be anyone there, I'm quite sure.

- A-ha! So now you are "quite" sure!?

- Don't be mean, I'm trying to save your life here.

- Exactly me for some reason, - Shari snorted sarcastically.

- For the same reasons you helped Adrian. Because I can't just walk past... and because I feel rather than know that helping you is more than just helping one particular person. Just like you felt about him - didn't you?

That shut the girl up for considerable time.

They walked all day long only making one small stop to rest during - at least what was supposed to be - midday (it was very hard to understand where the sun was behind the treetops, clouds and fog). Shari coughed up blood and swore like a sailor, but Lisa only let her sit down long enough to gulp down some food. If she wasn’t killed by some night creature, she would sure as hell be tired to death with such a guide pushing her to the limit. It was visible how the closeness of their destination made the ghost more and more agitated.

The dawn was already close and Shari was ready to give up the hopes of getting to her goal on that day - ever, to be honest, judging by the condition of her lungs – her body desperately wanted her to drop down and call it a night. The forest around them was dreary and dense, the mist had never lessened since morning; Shari was cold, slightly wet and unbearably tired and even Rodo seemed to lose some of his enthusiasm, even though the darkness should have empowered him. Maybe being around humans rubbed off on the creature a little.

- Shush, - Lisa turned to Shari as they walked on, gesturing for her to cut her whining and keep quiet. Shari stopped abruptly looking around in alert, trying to see through at least some reasonable distance between the tree trunks. Finally she understood what picked her companion’s attention: clearing began to be noticeable before them - it seemed that the woods were all of a sudden coming to their edge.

They carried on walking in silence for a few more minutes until they finally reached the end of the trees – the edge of the forest. The final border between the darkness of Dracula’s lands and the normal world. Shari gasped in surprise and horror: in front of her was a few feet sandy drop covered here and there in greyish grass that led to a whole field, dry and dead in dim yellow lights with no snow upon it, weak bushes appearing here and there. It seemed that the mere presence of the undead somewhere nearby sucked the life out of the lands. Peculiar graveyard formation occupied a part of the land - human skeletons hanging on tall sticks, all in varying poses, as if frozen in their deadly agony, dried with ages and falling apart. Whatever happened there, it was nothing good. If this was what the owner of the lands decided to expose to lone travelers, it was quite obvious there would be no “welcome” shield ahead.

There was no visible end to the field, at least the reddish mist coloured by the light of the setting sun made it impossible to see far in the distance. Shari coughed, dusty air tickling her throat, and looked back to the ghost in confusion. Was this what they had searched for?

- Are you sure this is…?

- My reaction precisely when I first saw this place, - Lisa was amused, watching the healer's fearful face. - Come on, we're almost there now.

- Wait! What, there? To those? - she gestured actively to the mass of aged corpses, but Lisa payed no attention to her reaction. - Lord, why do I always get myself into the deepest trouble I can find? Could've stayed somewhere safe and warm, healed a bit, but no-o I had to be right here, torn apart by bats and hell-knows-what-else-inhabits-this-place, - Shari mumbled to herself as they descended into the valley, her feet slipping upon rocks and sliding on the unsolid sandy ground.

- Oh, come on, it's not as scary here. You’ve surely seen worse - Lisa replied, - they were walking deeper into the field, navigating their way between the mutilated skeletons, as the reddish-grey twilight around them was darkening minute by minute.

- Maybe. Doesn’t mean I want to see more.

Just as the words left her mouth, there was a blood-chilling howl somewhere in the distance and a horde of great black bats, apparently awoken by the sound, appeared out of nowhere, flapping their wings above their heads rapidly; Shari yelled and dipped down in fear. Rodo on the contrary jumped up from behind her back, trying to reach the annoying loud things and succeeding in catching one of the creatures between his sharp fangs. Shari only crouched down lower, as she heard the struggles of the defeated being next to her ear. Then a snap - the animal stopped moving, as Rodo tightened his jaws, probably breaking the thing's stamina. Just as abrupt as it began, the flapping of the bats above her stopped too.

- Lisa? Are-are they gone? - her voice was slightly shaking, she awaited the dreadful howl to repeat even closer.

- Shari, stand up! Shari! - she heard Lisa's voice coming from behind her back and turned around, her eyes searching for the ghost, as she realized that Lisa has moved much further away than she expected. Shari was on her feet in an instant, finally noticing what stood behind the ghost's transparent form, her mouth fell agape at what she could see before her now.

A wide set of steps that led to doors so tall that she felt her head spin even looking up at it - the dark stone walls went up and disappeared in the low greyish mist. Her ghost companion was at the top of the steps already and Rodo was gladly running up to the doors, apparently recognizing the smell of his own home of some time ago. Shari followed behind him hesitantly, looking around for any sign of movement.

- Come on, don't be shy, - Lisa cooed, as if luring in a small child. Her greyish form paused on one spot, waiting for Shari by the door. The girl looked around one more time as she joined the ghost on the final steps,

- Are you... Sure? This doesn't look completely abandoned. I mean, can you be sure he isn't home? That he won't be back soon? Clearly you can’t, why am I even asking… This was a terrible idea straight from the beginning, - she was visibly shacking, clenching and unclenching her fists, stepping from one foot to the other. The whole journey suddenly felt like a big mistake that could still be possibly abandoned if she did not take the final leap. Shari put her hand on the door handle then pulled away in fear. She took a deep breath, putting her palm back more steadily on the door, but was still hesitant to push it open. She paused. There was once again the dreadful howl from before, now closer to them, the creature producing it still not visible. They were standing in almost complete darkness.

- Go! - Lisa pressed.

Rodo leaped on spot beside them.

Shari held her breath – and finally pushed the handle and jumped inside, scared to even look in forward and terrified of what was awaiting behind, diving head-first into unknown - if he is there, let it be, she'd rather be torn apart by him than by whatever thing outside that let out those blood-freezing sounds; Rodo slid in too, in a ghastly manner, his massive form unnaturally smoothly squeezing through the small gap in the doorway and the next moment the door was shut behind her with a loud blow. She was finally inside Dracula's castle.

[dahoomanprincess]

Miraculous: Tales of Redbug & Kuro Neko

Chapter 1: Origins Pt. 1

3rd Person POV

beep beep beep beep

Luka groaned as he was woken up by the alarm, his sister's alarm. He rubbed his eyes and slowly got out of his bed. He noticed that the alarm was still ringing which meant that Juleka was still asleep, she was a deep sleep after all. He then looked over to her desk and saw the yellow sticky note with the words 'first day back at school :(' written in purple ink stuck to the mirror. Luka smiled, first days back at school were tough, luckily he had finished school the year before, and went over to Juleka's bed to try and wake he up.

He turned off her alarm which, still hadn't waked her up. "Juleka, wake up, it's time for school", Luka said while slowly shaking her, trying to wake her up, but it was no use. She had been sleeping and still remained sleeping. Luka noticed and did the only thing that he knew would wake her up. He removed the sheets from her and started dragging her off the bed by her legs.

That seemed to do the trick as she stirred and woke up. She took notice of what was going on and tried to move closer to the other edge of the bed; where her pillow was. "Luka stoooop, let me goooo, I wanna go back to sleeeep", Juleka whined as her older brother was still dragging her off the bed.

"Hmmm... how about... no.", Luka said, with a mischivious smile on his face. Juleka huffed and said, "okay, okay, I'm awake", which caused him to let her go. "Now what do you want?", she asked, annoyed at him for waking her up. "Come on Jules, it's your first day back at school!", Luka told her. "Oh how exciting", she sarcastically said, adding an eye roll too. "Can't you be a bit more excited?", he asked, knowing well that Juleka despised going to school, and most of all interacting with people that were out of her friend group. "No", she responded with a straight face.

"And why's that?", he asked, even though he already knew the answer. "Oh you know, homework, eventual exams, talking to people, getting asked to answer questions and there's a high chance that Chloè's going to be in my class again.", Juleka answered, playing with the hem of her pyjama shirt. "Three years in a row!? Is that even possible!?" "Everything's possible when it comes to Chloè, Luka, I thought that by now you'd know it.", she said, adding a huff at the end. Juleka hated Chloè, well practically everyone did apart from Sabrina, her 'slave'. "But isn't that the school's thing to decide in which class students go?", Luka asked again. Juleka just shrugged.

"She won't be in your class this year Jules, don't worry", he tried reassuring her. "She will", Juleka responded. "Won't" "Will" "Won't" "Will" "Won't" "Will". They continued like that until Luka decided to do something. "You know what, I'm so confident that she won't be in your class that I'm betting €20 on it." Juleka smiled and rolled her eyes before saying, "And I'm so sure that she will that I'm betting €20 AND the loser has to buy the winner anything of their choice" "Anything?" "Anything"

Luka smirked and said, "Well Juleka I hope that you thought this well because there is this new guitar that I've got my eyes set on..." She then smirked back and said, "Luka, I hope that you have enough money saved up because there is this nail art set that I have been saving up for too..." They looked in each other's eyes with a challenging look and then Luka held out his hand and said, "Deal?", by which Juleka responded by shaking his hand and saying "Deal".

~~~

beep beep bee-

Kagami hit the snooze button on her mobile for what felt like the millionth time that morning. Why couldn't she sleep till noon like all the others her age that she sees on social media do? She pulled the covers back on her and tried to continue sleeping in the warmth of her bed.

Why couldn't she go to normal school like everyone else instead of being homeschooled? She barely got any holidays as she had to be the best of the best according to her mother. Kagami did want to do good in school, she wasn't one to not care about her grades, but also a break once in a while would also be good. Many people would say that they would prefer to be homeschooled, but it wasn't the case for her.

She wanted to be normal; go to school, have some independence, ineteract with other people, make friends. That's what she wanted most of all; to have a friend. Sure she did go to fencing lessons, but nobody would talk to her. Everyone saw her as the formal, strict, cold fencer, but she wasn't at all like that.

Kagami just needed a chance where she could be herself.

knock knock

She huffed, there went her 'extra' sleeping time. She responded with a groggy "mhm?" and the door to her bedroom creakily opened. One of her mother's servants walked in, stood near the door and said, "Your mother is waiting for you in the dining room." Kagami just responded with a thumbs up while still laying down in bed. The servant nodded and left her bedroom, closing the door behind her.

Kagami reluctantly got out of her warm bed and streched before seeing what she had first in the morning. "Fencing first", she thought while seeing her timetable for the day, "I can wear the uniform after having breakfast and shower after fencing. Mother won't know if I stayed in pjs for now anyways..." She wore her slippers and made her way downstairs to the dining room.

~~~

Luka and Juleka were at the side of Françoise Dupont school, where students can park their bikes. Luka had gone with Juleka as he had been called to work at his part-time job in the morning that day.

"Do I have to go to school?", Juleka whined. Luka sighed and said, "Yes Jules, you have to if you want to succeed in life." She huffed and muttered something under her breath which he didn't hear. She then said, "If Chloè's in my class this year will be another bad one..." Luka smiled knowingly, he knew how Chloè makes everyone's lives a nightmare. "Well if she is in your class you will win the bet, and if she isn't you won't have to be bothered by her. It's a win-win situation in the end." "More like a lose-lose situation...", she muttered, but this time Luka had heard her.

"Aw come on Juleka- hey, isn't that Rose?", he started, but changed the topic when he saw Rose, Juleka's best friend (or maybe more) climb up the steps. Juleka looked at where her brother was looking, smiled and nodded. "Then go talk to her, and say to her from me!", he said. He had known Rose as during that summer him, Juleka, Rose and another student, Ivan, had started a rock band called Kitty Section. Juleka nodded and with a "bye Luka, love ya" she went off running. He responded by saying, "bye Jules, have a great day at school."

He then got on his bike and started biking to his workplace when he saw an old man slowly crossing the road while there was an oncoming car. Luka quickly got off his bike, ran to the man, grabbed his arm and took him to the other side of the road, on the sidewalk. "Are you okay sir?", Luka asked the old man whose life he had practically saved. "Yes young man, thank you for saving my life back there.", the old man replied, "I don't know how I can repay you for your act of kindness and for risking your life for me." "Don't worry sir, you don't have to give me anything.", Luka told him, smiling, "I have to go now, have a good day sir!" He crossed the road to get his bike and continued biking to his work.

The old man walked to a side road and took out a black, wooden, octagonal box with a strange Chinese symbol on it in red. He smiled and while looking at the box said, "Thank you very much, young man."

~~~

"We have arrived at your destination, Ms. Tsurugi.", the voice of Tatsu said as Kagami and her mother arrived at Mr. D'Argencourt's fencing academy. She went there three times a week for private lessons in the morning, plus her lessons with the other fencers in the afternoon. She usually went to her fencing lessons alone but since it was the start of a new term her mother had to pay Mr. D'Argencourt for the lessons.

"Tatsu, open the doors", Tomoe demanded. "Yes, Ms. Tsurugi", Tatsu replied and the car doors opened. Kagami went out and was about to head inside the building when she noticed an old man wearing a shirt with a Hawaiian print on the floor, trying to get his cane so he can get up. She cast a quick glance at her mother when an idea formed in her head.

She started jumping, as if she was trying to catch something that was flying away, while moving closer to the old man who was looking at her with a confused look. When she got near him, she quickly bent down, gave him his cane, whispered, "here you go sir" and helped him stand up. He smiled at her and she winked back before returning to her mother.

"Kagami! Where did you go?", her mother demanded. "I'm sorry mother, but a paper flew away and I went to retrieve it.", Kagami said, smiling slightly. Her mother's blindness did have its advantages at times. Not that she wanted her to be blind, but it made stuff like she just did easier. Tomoe just nodded and started walking inside. Kagami went after her, waving to the old man, who waved back, before she went in. After both of them went in, the old man got out another box, identical to the one before but with a different thing inside, and said, "Thank you very much, young lady" before walking away without the need of his cane.

~~~

Luka was almost half-way to his job when the ground rumbled and he almost fell off his bike. He saw everyone's confused faces and then heard gun shots. He saw a lime green glow from a bit further away than he was and saw something rocky grow. Some people were taking out their phones to see what was happening and he did the same. He went on the news website and saw Mayor Bourgeois saying that all Parisians must stay home until the current situation was under control.

Then his mum called him and he answered. "Luka is everything alright?", Anarka said, with slight panick evident in her voice, "where are you? Are you already at work?" "I'm fine mum, and I still haven't arrived to work yet. I was about to head back home." Anarka breathed a sigh of relief and said, "Okay, at least you're not hurt. I went out to do some grocery shopping but I'm staying here till everything's all under control. Now head home and call me when you arrive, 'kay? And try to call yer sister, she didn't answer when I called her." "Yes mum, I will, bye" "Bye Luka", she said, and then he hung up. He got on his bike again and started cycling back to the Liberty, taking the route where there wasn't this supervillain thing.

Kagami had just started her fencing lesson when the ground shook and she fell over, shocked. Her first thought was that there was an earthquake but then she heard a very deep voice, like how monsters sound in movies. It was as if Paris was suddenly being attacked by a monster, but she reminded herself that monsters only exist in fictional stories. Mr. D'Argencourt ran over to get his mobile and it was shown that Paris was indeed being attacked by some sort of supervillain.

Nah, she had to be dreaming. Maybe she had hit her head when she fell over from the earthquake. Yes, that had to be it. Kagami tried pinching herself to see if she actually was dreaming and it hurt so she wasn't dreaming. But then how was there a literal stone monster? Her thoughts were cut short when her mother demanded that she get her things quickly so that they return home immediately. That's what she did and then the two females were on their way back to their house.

Luka arrived to his house boat and immediately called Juleka. It wasn't unlike her to forget to charge her phone or not notice when someone was calling her but he was still worried. Fortunately, she picked up after a bit. "Yes?", she said with a whisper. "Juleka! Are you okay?", Luka said. "Yes, yes, we are hiding in the school so we don't get caught. But this rock monster took Mylene and Chloè with him. I don't mind him taking Chloè but not poor Mylene!", Juleka said. Luka heard a faint snicker from someone near Juleka when she said the Chloè part.

"Are at work or back at home?", she asked. "I cycled back home, do you maybe have any idea on what has happened?", Luka said, wondering what Juleka was referring to when she said monster. "I might have", she replied, "Kim was picking on Ivan about I don't know what-" "Our drummer Ivan?" "Yes, that Ivan, he is in my class. Anyways, then Ms. Bustier sent him to the principal's office and then a giant stone monster thing with Ivan's voice ripped our class wall apart and took Mylene and Chloè since Kim disappeared somewhere." "So you're saying that Ivan got turned into some kind of monster!?", Luka exclaimed. "Yes, but I have no clue how. Maybe he will explain after he turns back to normal.", she calmly said. Juleka had always been a fan of horror movies so she loved these kind of things. "Maybe. Oh, and mum told me to tell you to call her. Tell her that I am safely home, will you?" She said that she will, and after they said their goodbyes Juleka hung up.

Meanwhile, Kagami had arrived home, luckily not attracting the attention of the thing that was outside. She asked her mother if she could go to her room and Tomoe nodded. Kagami removed her shoes and placed them besides the door before running upstairs to her room. She switched on the television and found a channel where the news was being broadcasted to try to understand what on earth was going on.

She rewinded the news a bit to when they started. "As incredible as it seems, it's been confirmed that Paris is indeed being attacked by a supervillain. The police have been struggling to keep the situation under control." Nadja Chamack said. "Be confident, the strong arm of the law will come crashing down on the...", Officer Roger said as he tried lifting an arm that was in cast, probably broken. "... I mean the other arm", he continued, wincing after lifting his injured arm.

Kagami got up from the sofa to go change when she noticed an unfamiliar wooden octagonal box on her desk. Luka had also noticed a similar box on his bed when he had walked in his and Juleka's room. They both picked it up at the same time and said, "Huh? What's this doing here?", before they opened them.

[fandomlovingfreak]

Mrs. Weasley, Dear (10/?)

George Weasley/Reader

Sequel to You Can’t Marry A Malfoy

Word Count: 1598

Rating: E for everyone ( trigger: pregnancy )

MasterList Link I AO3 Link

Summary: After their whirlwind romance, including a Pureblood Marriage Contract with a special clause, confessions of love from both, and a quick wedding, everything seems right in their world. Domestic life seems like it was meant for them.

Notes: We could be possibly nearing the end of this series (i’ll estimate 3-5 more chapters)! Which is sad, but all good things must end eventually! I’m excited to see where my Charlie Weasley series goes, but don’t worry! I’ll have more George and even more Fred content in the near future!

Enjoy

"Do you need help?" (y/n) is currently reaching for something on the top shelf of the cabinet, her pregnant stomach making the endeavor more difficult than normal.

I hear her sigh deeply before turning towards me, "Could you get me that mug?"

Chuckling, I reach over her shoulder to snatch up the violet mug she wanted. "Here you go, darling."

(y/n) frowns, taking the ceramic from me, "thanks." She sets it down on the countertop, "I'm sort of sick of suddenly being unable to reach for things."

"Luckily, you have me." Not only am I taller than my wife, but I was able to get my body within seven inches of the countertops. I joked about it once last week and caused her to tear up, so I won't be doing that again, but it was still sort of funny. Usually, (y/n) was always a good sport with his lighthearted teasing, but he's found out pregnancy hormones and joking sometimes do not mix well. Especially the random burst of irrational anger after he made a joke about how her sweater not fitting right, and she threw a shoe at his head. It missed, but she's bound to hit her target one of these times if he's not a little bit more careful about what he teases her about.

"I would rather be able to do it alone," she pouts, sitting down at the kitchen table. The caffeine-free tea sits in front of her in the violet mug, steam steadily rising from the rim.

"Soon enough." Three-ish months to be somewhat exact, which is insane. Time goes by so fast it feels like these days. 

"Not soon enough," she takes a sip of her beverage. George admires her, the frown lines between her eyebrows, the way she refused to do anything with her hair this morning. The mornings were always spent with only him, and she knew untidy hair and all he loved her. Why put effort into something silly like made-up hair when she felt tired constantly. He rather (y/n) was comfortable than made-up. Plus, she was adorable in his oversized sweater.

"Mum wanted to know if we've chosen a name," he tries to steer her in another direction to take her mind off of her annoyance. 

"What did you say?" She asks, already fully knowing what he told his mum.

"I said no." So much for steering the conversation.

"Was she disappointed? It's not like we haven't thought about it, but I want the gender to be a surprise. Something fun in the moment after--well, everything." (y/n) rambles on nervously. She hates the idea of pain in any amount. She has disclosed this with me multiple times in the past months. Assuring her I'd be there, right beside her the entire time, could only do so much to quell her anxiety, but I honestly don't know what else to do. It kills me to see her frightened.

"I know, dear. She just wanted to get a head start on the kid's sweater. You know how mum is." 

(y/n) rolls her eyes fondly, "your mum and her sweaters..."

"Gotta pass on the tradition to the next generation." He grins at his wife, "do you need anything else before I head out?"

She taps the side of her mug with her fingernail, "Could you pick me up some of those blueberry muffins from that shop in Diagon Alley before you come home, please? The ones with the sugar on top."

George rolls his eyes, "I meant anything right now, but yes. I'll get your muffins."

"Thank you, darling." I lean down so she can kiss my cheek.

"I'll be back around five-thirty." I shrug on my coat.

"Sounds good."

I apparate to the Hogsmeade location, set on stocking up the shelves before students come into the store this weekend. McGonagall had only sent me a few messages about what the Hogwarts students were up to with Wizard Wheezes products this year. With the shop moving into Hogsmeade, the mischief had only increased. McGonagall tried to sound annoyed when she wrote, but I know she thought it was just a tad bit funny. I had to hand it to these kids; they were creative with the products I provided them with. The letter had made me proud, honestly. Fred would've loved to know we're still creating chaos years after 'graduating' from school. 

***

I finish up the inventory and balancing the books around four, letting my new employee, Carina go home early. She's proven to be a great asset to the team so far. She was a year younger than Ron and had been in Hufflepuff. Real nice girl who knew nearly everything about each product and could sell each item just as well.

Locking up the door, I apparate to Diagon Alley to take a quick peek into what Ron's doing and to, of course, get my wife the muffins she requested.

"How's it going?" I ask when I walk into the original shop.

Ron looks up from where he's talking to a young wizard.

"Good. Why are you here?" Ron asks, excusing himself from the customer.

I pull a face, "can't I check in on my own store, Ronald?"

Ron rolls his eyes, "Yes, but you rarely do these days."

"Yes, the Hogsmeade location is doing well; thank you for asking."

"That's good. I'm sure McGonagall has complained."

"Multiple times, dear brother. But, that's the purpose of this lovely establishment. Causing chaos."

"All I care about is that the testing is no longer done on me."

I put on a mischievous grin, "I wouldn't be so confident if I were you."

Ron's eyes widen comically, "have you been slipping me stuff recently?"

"Remember when you fell asleep in your soup two weeks ago, and Hermione convinced you that you were just tired?"

"You poisoned me!" 

I roll my eyes, "I was testing a product. I'm practically lining your pockets, Ronald."

He mutters something under his breath, "Can't you test your products on yourself, perhaps?"

"I have a child on the way," I cross my arms, "you don't understand the stresses of having a pregnant wife and child on the way. Besides, the woman tried to take my head off last week for making a joke about her sweater. I'm already in mortal danger with (y/n) around."

"Hopefully, next time, she'll hit her target."

"You wound me, Ronald," I grin, "anyways, if the shops all good, I have to be off. The wife needs those muffins from that place down the street."

"Armadill Confections. They close at four-thirty. You ought to head out to catch them before they close up or (y/n) probably will finish the job."

"Ha-ha. I'll see you soon, Won-Won." I snicker when he rolls his eyes at the nickname.

I catch the witch working at Aramdill's right before she starts closing up the bakery. "Hi, Sorry! By chance, do you still have any of those blueberry muffins with the sugar stuff on top? I promised I'd get my pregnant wife some--"

The witch is maybe around my mum's age with slightly greying hair and kind green eyes. She chuckles, "of course, dear. I have four leftover from today. I can wrap them up for you if you'd like?"

"Yes, please. How much do I owe you?"

"It's in the house. I have a daughter who is pregnant currently, and she loves these muffins."

I chuckle, "I can't just take them for free. I'll be back probably in the next week anyway."

"I insist. I know how it feels to crave something specifically. And like you said, you'll be back again. Please, I insist."

He feels grateful that someone would be so kind, but really, he can pay! "Are you sure?"

"Yes, yes. Next time you come in, bring your wife in. I would love for her to try some of the other things I have."

"Well, thank you. She's going to be thrilled to get an offer to try some of your other stuff. She raves about these muffins in particular." I grin. (y/n)'s going to be tickled that the shop owner wants her to come in, "I'm George Weasley by the way."

"You don't say!" The witch looks surprised, "I went to school with your parents. You look a lot like your mother's brothers."

"Mum thinks so too. Well, thank you again. Have a good night."

***

"(y/n)," I yell when I walk through the door. Setting down the brown box on the countertop, I shrug off my coat.

"Hello," (y/n) stands on her tippytoes to press a kiss to my cheek. "You got the muffins!" She opens the little pastry box, taking one of the large blueberry muffins out.

"The shop owner wants you to come in whenever you want more muffins. I guess her daughter is pregnant too, and she has some ideas on what else you might like."

"Oh?" (y/n) asks in between bites, "that's nice. That'll probably be two days from now, honestly. I can't get enough of this woman's baking. It's so good."

"Lemme have a bite," I give her my best puppy eyes.

"Fine," she hands me the last bite of the muffin.

Popping the last bit of muffin into my mouth, I chew appreciatively. "Merlin's Beard...that's quite possibly the best thing I've ever eaten."

"Right?" (y/n) nods, "I got it in my head that I needed them like last week. You have no idea how satisfied I feel right now."

I can't help but laugh at the ridiculousness of that statement, "I'm sure, darling, I can't understand."

Taglist: @paigeyisme

[paper-cloud]

i. the crushing weight of what happens next

part of "(there will be a) tomorrow"

fandom: prospect (2018) characters: ezra, cee rating: T words count: ~3K context: post-canon general warnings/tags: see series masterlist warnings/tags for this chapter: ezra's pov. angst. not graphic descriptions of wounds, blood and amputated limbs. mentions of minor characters' death. (probably very) inaccurate but anyways vague descriptions of medical treatments and post-anesthesia symptoms. taglist: @ravensmutty @buttercup--bee @thegreenkid (again, thank you all for your interest and encouragement! :3) @krissology @ezrasarm @bonktime (please forgive my nerve, i won't tag you in the next chapters unless you'll explicitly ask me to! just thought about someone else who might be interested and you guys are AMAZINGLY talented and inspiring "prospect"/ezra writers. it's not my intention to waste precious moments of your time! 🤡

[SERIES MASTERLIST] [MAIN MASTERLIST]

He'd have thought it was almost ironic – opening his eyes to the light only to see nothing. To feel pain.

He'd have laughed about it, most likely. A bit later, he'd have acknowledged it was a reasonably fair compromise; for him and any other wretch that'd ever dared play dice with darkness and miraculously made it out alive.

And in the very end he'd come to laugh at himself, too.

He knows the drill. Someone who trades their own life with the contract of the highest bidder doesn't see the universe in black and white, let alone is in a position to draw the hypothetical line between the two of them.

Must be an even more wicked universe than he's ever cared about, then.

At least, that's where the struggle of opening his eyes made him stumble upon; when a blade of light thrust through that hint of a gap he'd pushed himself to create in the middle, resonating through the dark coils of unconsciousness like a harsh, unforgiving bell.

A skilled mariner over silky rivers of natural redundancy and rapids of professional edges, Ezra is a man who can appreciate a sharp wit when he recognizes one.

That was too much even for him.

Floundering in between a blinding whiteness and a black hole that wasn't even completely black, but permeated by a thick, suffocating haze that filled every ghost haunting his mind with its stench. With the color of diabolically lush leaves.

Forest— spores— poison— death.

It hadn't been enough to let him dangle in apnea above a roaring vortex of lifeless emerald; take him away from the grey flow whose elusiveness he'd come to appreciate more than he'd ever hated to endure its chaos— from the bubble built on the routine series of one last jobs that, in the end, never really were.

There'd been a moment when, from the higher parts of the room, his pupils tumbled down, tripping over a patch of green discreetly lurking in a corner.

He almost threw up.

It had taken him a while to clear out the misty grit clotted in his corneas— focus on white walls, light wood paneling... a harmless seedling in a pot.

He'd breathed heavily, deeply. He sure hadn't got much relief from it. Still, he'd been able to hear its sound, louder than he'd ever heard it before, the musical, cooling mesh of oxygen particles in and out of his lungs almost begging his fingers to be touched.

Oxygen.

Fresh air.

Had he been less sore – less convinced it was just the residual effects of anesthesia pulling pranks on him –, he would have burst out laughing. Even more so if some poor soul of the medical staff nearby would have called for reinforcements from the other side of the space station before storming into his room.

He'd be laughing now, too. The best he can manage is sitting on his bed, leaning his back on the headboard – which is what he's struggling to do right now— and well, sometimes the room lighting still slightly bothers him. Of course, with all the painkillers and antibiotics they've given him, he wouldn't feel like the wound on his stomach is swallowing the entire arsenal of stitches and bandages.

He just wouldn't like her to get the wrong idea.

He blinks several times, like a man who no longer trusts his eyes. How can he, when they're burning like that, in such a different fire from the one from days before – damp and flickering? For reasons he can imagine, she seems to be faltering. Totally beyond his comprehension, he could swear she's smiling at him. Something inside his ribcage creaks oddly, while the curve of his chest arches upward.

"Birdie."

It's just a huff of breath, weak and hoarse, yet scratches his throat all the same, in a way that its walls feel studded with rock spurs. Actually, Ezra doesn't remember talking since they left the Green behind – which, being him, is saying something – and it's like an eternity has passed since their pod docked up there.

The nurse who let her into his room has just left and Cee sinks her hands into the pockets of her sweatpants. She's still smiling— just the faded shadow of a smile, now that he takes a better look at her.

"How's your wound?"

It sounds a lot less plain than he expected.

She hasn't moved towards him any further, and for now she's not showing any hints at wanting to. In her irises, Ezra recognizes thumping stars and cerulean clouds, all clustered in the black circle cut by the large porthole next to his bed. All before catching the thin mist veiling them. As if she did want to reach those stars, let herself get carried away by those streams of bluish dust, but she had no idea how or what to do there.

He looks down, the borders of the bandages over his abdomen slightly raised under his black short-sleeved tee. He clears his throat.

"S'healin' nicely", he says, with a deliberate lightheartedness that costs him a sharp, bizarre inflection in his voice. He closes his eyes soon after, tilting his head condescendingly. "That's how the nurse feels about it, anyway... S'not like I can feel much more right now."

This reminds him of those vacuous moments between brief, chaotic waking states and delirious dreams. When he'd managed to reconnect some essential key points scattered around in the talks of surgeons and nurses; the weariness he felt from simply gathering he was on a space station due to enter the orbit of Mesos in three cycles and something standard hours. All while his only solid reference point – the only indisputable proof he was still alive – was the sequence of beeps chirped by the medical monitor perched nearby. Constant, not monotonous. Friendly, even. Sometimes, he actually comes to miss it.

"A trust fall to the extreme, I'd guess", he snorts, a sly laugh as weak and heavy as the words trudging out of his mouth. As the whole rest of him.

Whatever answer she's considering, Cee freezes it in a quick purse of her lips – maybe a nod, but for his own good he'd rather be doubtful. Then she starts looking around.

There's a chair under the board firmly anchored to the opposite wall – probably a desk or something he's never needed to test, whatsoever. She grabs it and puts it next to his bed. She sits down, bringing her legs to her chest, squeezing them in her arms.

Waiting for what, Ezra has no idea, and he's afraid she doesn't have any, either.

He doesn't speak, though, nor does he encourage her to do the same. Her pearly gaze roams steadily but unhurriedly from him to somewhere beyond him, her nose buried in the gap between her knees. He studies her carefully, two purple crescents above her cheeks, a few hair strands swinging down her face without her wiping them out. The nights she's slept through haven't been any more peaceful than his.

Trust, he recalls in the meantime.

It sure brings an odd taste to his mouth. Something close to sweaty spacesuits, grimy paths and gone-off ration bars. A single word for two human beings forced to share the same air filter for days; that, and the image of a dead body left to rot miles behind and the desperate commitment not to end up in the same way.

His gaze just happens to trip over his right side, taking in the deflated sleeve over the emptiness that saved his life. When he lifts it back to the girl, meeting her eyes just before they can flutter away, he realizes they were both looking at the same spot. And he realizes something else— something he's already understood, yet not quite.

There is no tube binding them now.

"Why d'you do it?", he mumbles a split second later, almost like somehow the thread of his question has immediately knotted to the one of his previous thought.

He huffs. He shouldn't even have asked her, in all honesty. Seeing her like this, at least he should have put it in another way, danced around it, it's not like he’s never been good at stalling, after all—

"Comin' back", Ezra says instead, and when he swallows, he mainly does it to send his heart back down his throat. If he'd died without being given the last chance to be this straightforward on this matter, he would have probably kicked his ass all the way to the other side. 

This time, Cee doesn't avoid his gaze. He shouldn't be surprised by how collected she looks, given the calmness she handled his infected arm with and then told him about when she used to slip into Jata Bhalu carcasses. But he can't help it when he thinks she can't be much older now than what she was then.

He watches her breathing in, wobbling her pupils here and there, seemingly considering his words. She's not afraid, not any more than what she seemed to be when she walked into his room. Maybe she's just better than him at playing pretend – but this, he can't tell whether it's more of a good than a bad thing. Especially for her.

One thing he can tell is that she's not the same girl who pointed a trembling gun at him before running away into the woods. He knows she's not afraid.

He knows...

So is it the hunter's instinct he has to blame if he feels she is?

"Guess I've seen too much death on that forsaken moon to just... turn my back on one I can help– one I can do something about."

If he was standing in front of an entire mountain crumbling down into the ocean, he wouldn't hear its sound. ‘Wouldn't even be the worst he deserves. She did hesitate before adding the last few words, but Ezra refuses to believe she did that because she was afraid of hurting him. He may be a wretch, but not a fool.

Kevva, for a man who's always managed to untwist himself from far tougher situations with the tangles of his tongue alone, he's sure having a deal of trouble – and he wishes he could put all the blame on his current physical condition.

There is no word he doesn't have to weigh carefully now, to prevent it from taking too sharp edges once out of his lips. He may float around it forever. But once he's let her go without saying anything, he'll hardly find the courage to look within himself again, more than after any other job that hardened his hands with calluses and tarnished his eyes with blood.

He doesn't know for sure. In fact, everything he was sure to know – about the turning direction of the universe and the one of the wheels in his head – has already collapsed in front of him, tracing a flaming tail. An unforgiving meteor following a trajectory far beyond his grasp.

He just knows silence scares him, in a way that a wrong word will never do again. It terrifies him. More than as a talkative person, as a castaway on a hostile moon for too many cycles to keep their count – with the only company of a mute. Silence is green; the green of the most poisonous pollen, lethal in his brain just like toxic spores enveloped in his lungs. The green of snake scales ready to stand and scratch his flesh until liquid crimson pours out of it.

And at the end of the day, this is the only fucking thing he can tell himself to know without having his guts churning and chest heaving a beat later.

"Stop looking at me like that."

It's more of an exhausted prayer than an annoyed remark. Ezra blinks, stunned by the sudden return from the shapeless stream of his thoughts.

"Like what?"

"Like you're looking for the words to thank me", Cee settles back into her chair and this time she lets one leg touch the floor, "Tell me you owe me, and you– you're sorry about what you did."

Ezra sniffles. "Would it be bad?" 

"No, it—". She closes her eyes for a moment, clenching her jaw. "Just no good", she breathes out, calmer.

And the discordant note in those words conjures up ghosts not yet vague enough for Ezra to be able to tolerate them without something twinging inside him— like a violent flutter of wings. Voices groping their way up ravels of compromises. Damon, deep in the forest. Himself, with the mercenaries in the Queen's Lair. Cee, days before that. After he—

She's right— those words she hasn't said yet, but whose shadow he feels looming every time he catches her wetting her lips.

Some things just can't be split evenly.

"This is not the Green", she states, suddenly more confident but no less exhausted. "If you're going to hang around just because you need to, once we reach Mesos¹ you'd better be on your way."

Ezra doesn't interrupt her. A faded echo starts making its way into his ears. A former prospecting partner, many years ago. An easy job on a forgettable Fringe moon.

Gems don't have an expiration date. Deals do. Strike 'em if you need to, get rid of them as soon as you can. Unless you care to dig a quicker way to your grave.

He didn't pay attention to it, then. He'd thought it was just the empty rhetoric prospectors drop absentmindedly to fill the time between an unrewarding digging and the next. All the more so under the rickety advice of a couple too many.

His eyes still wide open, hands shaky, he merely reciprocated the awkward bottle lift of his partner, whom he didn't know more than the meanders of that quarry. A toast to a faceless future – a nothingness still more reassuring than what was all around and behind them. Not to the darkness of the cave, basically unbreakable if only for the red halo thrown by the twinkles of sharp, sinister Prystines². Not even to the two poor bastards that had set out with them, ending up skewered a few hundred paces behind – one by mistake, the other to return the favor of saving him from the clutches of a furious Aiu³.

Like an idiot.

Several contracts later preventing him from missing a beat in front of similar hiccups, the logic of that statement no longer sounds so absurd to Ezra. Luckily for him, Cee understood it long before him.

"I was just lookin' for the words to tell ya you'll be better off without me—"

Half a truth. Half a heartbeat. After all, she isn't the only one of them who knows how to sell it.

He leans his head back against the headboard, eyes half-closed, a sly grin baring a couple of his upper teeth. It would almost be intimidating, except that the glint hitting them doesn't quite match the dying one in his eyes.

"—But you beat me to it", he finishes, and he sounds like he's about to fall asleep.

He slowly turns his head away, looks through the porthole. His gaze clutches to the passing asteroids outside, distant nebulae spraying the sidereal black with hues of purple, blue, red— then green, again. A climbing plant squeezing him from the inside, discomfort starts creeping on him an inch of his body – what's left of it – at a time.

He doesn't want her to think he's angry at her, and it's the only concrete foothold emerging from the fluid, magmatic chaos in his mind.

How could he be, when she came back to get him?

She didn't have to.

She doesn't have to be here, either...

"I'm sorry", she suddenly blurts out.

He meets her eyes again, a mix of bewilderment and disapproval shading his own. He shakes his head.

"Don't."

"I just—". She starts fiddling with the extra fabric created by the folds of her sweatpants. Then she sighs deeply. "I have no idea what I'm gonna do now."

He snorts. "Not that it's s'pposed to make you feel any better, but... neither do I."

He doesn't have a hazy helmet choking the glimmer in his eyes, an air filter breaking some frequencies in his voice— maybe just those making him sound sincere, while saving those trapping him into the swamp of self-loathing.

He was nothing but honest when he told her the rules of the game on the Green. When he openly admitted he was a killer, and when he assured her he wouldn't trade her for the Sater's Aurelac. And she's always seemed to believe him, maybe for that kind of desperate inertia that washes over people when they need something to cling to. Whatever the case, Ezra can only hope she wants to believe him now. But she doesn't speak, and for a moment his fear of not saying enough overcomes that of crossing her boundaries.

"But w—", he immediately bites his tongue, "—you still have three cycles to figure things out. Someone up here will be able to help you. Even so, please know you'll always have my most sincere gratitude."

The effort of lining up all those words and so few pauses to catch his breath casts a thick fog over his ears. His eyes suddenly hurt again and he finds himself squinting.

What happens next, he just records it, hardly managing to follow each cause-effect relationship. A series of events softly raining on him without making a noise, while he can quite imagine them to be way more prolonged in time. Cee leaning towards the lighting panel on the wall, sliding her finger counterclockwise, and the white coating the walls turning less painfully bright; her getting up, walking away, dwelling just before the door. "I'll come to check on you tomorrow", she says, sniffling.

She tilts her head, holding his gaze in her watery one for an agonizingly slow while – Please, don't ask me why.

He blinks once – Of course.

Then, the automatic door is once again engulfed by the wall, closing behind her with a metallic rustle.

Tomorrow.

His heart is taken by a spiraling jolt that leaves an empty cave behind. When it falls back into place, Ezra finds something has tripped in there, shapeless and quivering like the nucleus of a newborn star.

Hope, terror and everything that lies in between. 

___________________

NOTES:

1) Mesos — Invented planet. Its only raison d'être is that "mésos" in Greek means "middle" and my intent was to frame this story in a moment of transition (after those of movies) for both Ezra and Cee. 2) Prystines — Invented kind of crystals. They're implied to be huge, red and very sharp, thus endangering the path through the cave. 3) Aiu — Invented predator, ideally a big feline.

A/N:

Yeah, uhm... at this point, if someone was ever to give me any kind of feedback, constructive criticism or random thought, I think I'd just melt into a puddle for the attention alone. And to all those who came all the way down here, your bravery shall not be forgotten. ♥️✨

In my defense, it's (almost) all P**** P*****'s fault & of his habit of taking orphans under his wing from one planet to another.

I know people in the fandom generally tend to make Ezra and Cee go along straight away after the movie, so this will be a slightly different take on things, I guess... But even if I don't know if I'll keep this series going atm (life & maturity exam suck), a final reconciliation is definitely on the way. ;)

Oh, and any beta reader that should feel like helping me out for when I'll have the next chapters ready is warmly welcomed! My DMs are always open and I swear I don't bite! :3

[devinescribe]

Burnt Out

Bitches... (1, I love you all very much. 2, .... read 1) it's time for some angst...

And the start of me making poly relationship things-

Request away lol (I'm working on a request and small project chapters :) )

Warnings: Toxic Relationship, mentions scars, burns, Manga spoilers, swearing, emotionally abusive behavior, mentally abusive behavior, gaslighting(?) Let me know if I missed any!

You giggled as both men chased after you through the halls of the hotel. "(Y/N), you're wearing socks! You're going to- shit!" Niragi yelled after you, cursing when he saw you fall. You slipped down the stairs. You landed with a thud at the bottom. Tears filled your eyes at the pain, but you swallowed them back, standing up. You yelped, falling back to the floor. Chishiya stared down at you, kneeling besides you,  squeezing your leg. "Ow! Shi-Shi, hurts," you whined, slapping his hand away. He glared up at you. "Maybe don't be stupid next time. I'm just trying to help you," he scoffed, going back to trying to find out what was wrong. "You don't have to be so mean to he-" "Shut up. You're dumber than her, you're the whole reason this happened anyways." He felt people stare, and stopped. "Take her back up to our room. I'll figure out what's wrong there," Chishiya stated, getting up, and walking away. You expected Niragi to yell after him, or repremand him for something, but we're met by silence. "Gi-Gi, you ok?" You whispered as he picked you up softly. He pressed a quick kiss to your forehead nodding.

"Niragi... this isn't the way back to our room," you said, noticing he was taking you the opposite way. "Clever girl," he praised with a smile. You laughed at his words. "I'm taking you to Ann. She has more equipment to help you. I'll get Chishiya after I take you to her though," he explained. You nodded.

_______________________________________

"And then it was like bam, then woosh, and like... wow!!" You exclaimed, trying to find the words to explain your game. Niragi laughed, patting the top of your head. "Sounds fun sweetheart. Tell me all about it after I take a shower," he said. You nodded with a smile, sitting on the edge of your bed. Chishiya had been on the bed, listening to your rambling. "Chishiya, I think it was really cool how you tried to-" you started. "Gods you're loud. Quiet down. And I know. I'm clever, after all. Neither of you would be here without me. Probably dead," he lectured. "But Chishiya, Niragi and I survived without you before we came to the Beach, remember? We were t-" you started, confused at his words. "I get it, he's your favorite out of us both! You make it so fucking obvious. I bet the only reason you wanted both of us is because you're an attention whore who needs multiple men to use her to feel good about herself. Shut up and let me sleep," he shouted. Tears filled your eyes as he turned away from you. Had you really shown favoritism? You didn't try to, if you had. You always made sure you tried to do things with both. Was he feeling left out? Is that why he was being a jerk?

Those were all thoughts running through your mind, not knowing that you weren't the problem. You had spent equal time with both, giving them equal attention. Chishiya just never wanted you around him.

_______________________________________

"(Y/N), come with me. Now," Chishiya ordered. Ten of Hearts. That was tonight's game. And you were terrified. He had pulled you away before anything got to out of hand. You thought that maybe he was trying to be nice. Maybe he had finally come around? Had you given him enough attention? "W-where's Niragi?" You asked, jogging to catch up with him. "Don't worry about him let's go."

You followed him around the whole time, watching as his hands quickly grabbed items. ''What are you making?" You asked, hoping he didn't snap at you. You feared his response. "Something to beat the game with. If you can't bring the witch to the fire, bring the fire to the witch," he said. You sighed in relief. He didn't yell at you, and you were happy about it. "Ok... so... you know who the witch is?" You questioned. "I have a hunch. Now stop asking questions," he stated. "So annoying..." you heard him mutter. You frowned, keeping your lips shut.

Following him up the stairs, you kept to yourself. You knew he wouldn't care about your thoughts. He might yell at you, or call you annoying. You didn't want to make him angry... He was just trying to protect you, right?

"Niragi!" You shouted happily, seeing he was at the rooftop. He wasn't dead. He looked over at you with a smirk. "Ah, so he did keep you safe. Where were you hiding?" He asked, picking up his gun from the floor. "There's many places for me to hide," Chishiya responded. You tried walking towards Niragi, but Chishiya grabbed your sleeve. You tugged at his hand, trying to get away. "Let me go," you said, struggling against him. "No."

The next few minutes went in a blur. All you remember was Chishiya and Niragi arguing a bit back and forth. You were so overwhelmed already, the game getting to you, and now your lovers were fighting. Cards flying, fire, screaming. You couldn't tell if it was your own scream or Niragi's, but it didn't matter.

"C-chishiya what the hell?! W-what?!" You yelled, shaking, stepping back from him. "Hmm... guess he wasn't the witch then,'' he stated, dropping the homemade flamethrower to the ground. He started picking up the cards on the floor. You however tried taking deep breaths, trying to calm yourself. You couldn't. Tears slipped off your face, hands scratching you your arms. You couldn't scream, couldn't talk, couldn't move. It was like you were living in a nightmare.

_______________________________________

There was more instances, of course, but you were so done with everything. Niragi was still alive, to your relief. After all that, he was alive. And that's all that mattered to you. Chishiya had been with you, and still was. Understandably, you were scared of him. Niragi was angry at him, but couldn't do anything about it.

"Look, just tell me I'm right, and we're fine," Chishiya stated bored of the conversation. Both you and Niragi were so tired of this. The constant fighting, gaslighting, and hateful words. Chishiya was just too prideful to admit he was wrong.

It was a relationship between you three. You and Niragi shouldn't be putting in all the work, while he didn't try. At the begin he had. He had tried to be a part of the relationship, giving you both kisses and hugs. Random bouts of energy at 3 am to go to a random room. It had all started slowly going down hill. He pushed you both away, but didn't want to leave. He never left, giving you hope that maybe he really loved you both, and just didn't know how to express it. He had told you about his parents, and you just always tried to excuse his behavior as his trauma, but it just got to a point where you couldn't anymore.

"You're right," you started. You saw him smirk, and continued. "We couldn't fix you," you said. Suddenly he wasn't so sure of where this was going. "You're right, we shouldn't have tried to. Your pride is what you're concerned about?" Niragi said. He was tired of dealing with this as well. All he wanted was to find someone who actually cared about him, and who showed it. He didn't want to be with someone who made him feel alone. You didn't make him feel alone... "I'm still right, he wo-" Chishiya started, getting ready to argue back and forth with you two until you finally gave into him. But that wasn't going to happen today.

"Is "you're right" really all you wanna hear right now?" You whimpered, sitting on your knees next to Niragi.

"Well, you're right, we should've walked away faster... should've know You would only break our hearts after we were already in love," You whispered. You were all hurt. Niragi had severe burns, and bullet wounds, Chishiya had bullet wounds as well. You had burns on your arms and legs, cuts and bruises adorned your (s/c) skin. Most of which Chishiya had caused when he put you in danger at games for his own gain. Or when he needed to test one of the weapons he made, you were his test subject. "Yeah, I guess I'm just not good enough for either of you then. All you two do is act scared of me like I'm the bad guy-"

"You're right, you aren't good enough," Niragi stated angrily, caughing up blood after. He winced in pain at the sudden movement. You felt tears fill your eyes, and shook them away. ''I kissed your scars even after you hurt me, and he held your hand, even when you fucking burned him-" you shouted angrily. "Do you know how embarrassing that was?" Niragi whispered, his voice hoarse and raspy.

"Oh, because it's all my fault?"

"Yeah! That's exactly what we're saying! When was the last time you actually tried acting like you liked us?"

''She's right. You agreed to be with us. This is just fucking embarrassing to be with somebody who hates us, and doesn't even try to hide it."

"I don't hate you two I-"

"Liar."

"We hoped things got better, we hoped that love could turn a monster into a man," you stated, getting angrier by him trying to defend himself. "But it doesn't and it won't

Because you're beyond repair

But there is still someone for her somewhere, who will treat her so nice, you'll wish that you did-" Niragi retorted to his words. He didn't hate you both? He sure did a horrible job at showing it. Niragi knew he would die with his injuries. You would live. You could find someone who would treat you better than either of them could. "For someone so smart you're so fucking stupid to think that we're really that dumb..." you interrupted Niragi. He was losing energy, and anytime he coughed you could tell it was so painful to him. "We love you, but we're done... Pretending this was gonna work... Pretending loving you didn't hurt... Pretending that it doesn't burn when you think you're always right..." Niragi ended. Those words were hard for him to say, and hard for you to realize. You three had just been pretending this was going to work after Chishiya started pushing you two away. You two tried so hard to stay with him, and tried so hard to fit all three of you together, that you didn't realize how much staying fucking hurt.

" 'Cause you're still stuck on your past...You hate him so much but you're just like your dad!!" You screamed, shouting the first thing that came to mind. It hurt him. That was a first. The first time someone's words hurt him. And you, (Y/N), his sweet (Y/N), said them. You could see the shock written all over his face when you said them, and it made you feel a bit bad. Niragi was secretly proud of you, but focused on the situation at hand. Tears feel from your eyes, and you cursed yourself. "(Y/N), I- I'm- I can't... I-" Chishiya stammered. For once, he was at a loss for words. You and Niragi had made him happy. He didn't feel alone with you two, and that scared him. So he tried to push you both away, scared of hurting either of you, but I'm the end, he hurt you more than he meant to. He tried, he really tried at the beginning, the feeling of being together with you two bringing him the feeling of love, understanding, and happiness he'd never felt. But he ruined that. He hurt himself in this instance, he hurt the people he loved, making them scared of him. He realized you were right. He was turning out to be just like his father. He didn't want that. He wanted to wake up, this was surely a nightmare. He would wake up and you would be squished in between him and Niragi. You would be playing with his hair, talking about your dream. You wouldn't be scared of him, and you would all be back at the beach. Like the 10 of hearts never happened. But he knew that was wishful thinking. This was real, and this was happening. Everything he used to laugh about people worrying about was happening to him right now. This was his karma. It had finally caught up to him.

"And I know, that you tried...Gave it all that you had," you whispered through tears. No. He couldn't let the one thing that made him happy slip through his fingers. But... he had to let you go. You wanted to leave. Niragi wanted to leave. It would be cruel to both of you to make you stay. So he stayed quiet. Did you really think he tried? That made him feel a tiny bit better. You thought he tried. That he tried to make things work. "And being a monster doesn't necessarily make you bad..." Niragi added quietly. He was a monster. The words he had said to not only you, but Niragi could back that up. Not just his words either. His actions. He was a horrible person to both of you. Why did he expect both of you to stay with him, when neither of you had anymore energy to put into the relationship.

"But...even if we could staple it back together now... we all know that you can't light a fire that's already burnt out," Chishiya whispered. You both looked up, shocked he was agreeing with you. Was he crying? Neither you nor Niragi had ever seen him cry. Niragi chuckled a bit, not at the fact that Chishiya was crying, but at the fact that this was what it took for him to care. "Fuck... it hurts," Chishiya muttered with a laugh. "My injuries hurt less than losing both of you... fuck... I-"

He was interrupted by a voice. The games were over. "Oh my gods... we can go home! I reject citizenship in the borderlands," you said. "Same. I don't want to stay here. Fuck that," Niragi stated. "I also reject citezenship of the borderlands. This is like a personal hell..." Chishiya muttered. A bright light obstructed your vision.

You walked on crutches into their hospital room with a smile. " 'M back!" You chirped. You had all been in an accident, as a lot of people that were currently in the hospital were. You didn't know why, but the seemed so familiar. You liked being around them, and constantly visited them. "Ah, finally a pleasant noise to hear," the blonde man complemented. You could hear the teasing tone directed towards the other man in the room. "I can't really help it can I? So... shaddup..." the other muttered. "My nurse told me... that my heart stopped... for a minute," you mentioned, sitting in a chair in between their beds careful to not hurt your legs more. They had burns and scars, nothing tho serious. "What a coincidence. Us too," Chishiya said. You nodded, humming in acknowledgement. "I um... I also... get released tomorrow..." you said sadly. "That's great (Y/N). You can head back to your home," Niragi said. You shook your head. "I wanna stay. I don't know why, but you two seem familiar to me. And... I want to know why... it feels like...I don't know how to explain it..." you stated. "I... I've felt that as well," Chishiya admitted. "Ok, good I'm not crazy then," Niragi joked, coughing slightly after. "Well... how about I come visit everyday until you both get released... then we can figure out why? Or get to know each other more? It feels like... I've loved you in a past life kinda thing. Silly of me to say, huh?" You giggled. "I think... we'd both enjoy that... and it's not silly, in fact, we've both been talking about it, and that's how we feel. About you, and each other. It's quite weird, I've never met either of you in my life. You're both rather attractive though," Chishiya said. Niragi snickered and you looked over at Chishiya, who's eats had turned red.

"I said that outloud, didn't I?"

"Yep."

"It's a good thing I find both of you attractive too, blondie."

"Hey, I think you're both cute too! Lemme join in on this!"

"Of course. Join in on it (Y/N)."

I couldn't let you guys be sad, I'm sorry-

Also, I'm going on a trip to Arizona this week, so there will probably not be many (or any) updates. Sorry, but I do hope you enjoy this!