#as soon as i don't understand something i just get confused and zone out instead of processing the information that would help me understan

[fingertipsmp3]

The slides for class today look deceptively simple. Should I be concerned

[afterglowkatie]

under the moonlight | natasha romanoff

Summary: reader comforting natasha while she has a little breakdown

Pairings: Natasha Romanoff x Reader

Warnings: sad natasha :(

Word Count: 837

Notes: im terrible with summaries im sorry :')

The door to the meeting room slammed shut as Natasha walked out. Everyone was silent, not knowing how to break the tension that had been formed since she left. No one knew why or what was said for Natasha to just get up and leave how she did. But you knew something wasn't right. It wasn't normal to see Natasha that way. Without hesitation you jumped up quick to follow her. The team looked to each other with confusion when you left, as far as they knew you and Natasha had never really spoken to each other before.

That would be the truth and you normally wouldn't follow but today you just felt this pull towards her, it was indescribable. Though when you finally found Natasha you wish that you weren't the one who had gone after her. You stood in the doorway of her room, stunned at the sight in front of you. Natasha had slouched next to her bed, pulling her knees to her chest and you watched as sobs wrecked through her body.

You had never been great at comforting people or knowing what to do when someone was upset or hurt, you normally left that up to someone else. Your heart pulled you to your next actions.

'Hey Nat, are you okay?' You sat next to Natasha, your hands in your lap as you stared straight ahead, 'wait no. That's a stupid question. Let me start over,' You took a deep breath, you hadn't disappeared yet like you wanted to but there was something about Natasha that pulled you to stay, to go outside of your comfort zone and learn how to comfort someone on the spot, 'I hope you feel better soon, just tell me what I can do to make you feel better,' You placed your hand on her back. Natasha felt you freeze as soon as you made contact.

You were too busy second guessing your actions and whether Natasha appreciated you being here or if she wanted you gone, that you missed the way her sobs had died down and there was a small smile forming on her face.

'You being here with me is more than enough,' Your eyes softened when Natasha lifted her head to look at you. Your eyes met her bloodshot ones, tears stained her cheeks. You gave her a small smile before an idea popped into your head.

'Come with me?' You got up and held your hand out towards Natasha. She accepted the hand and you helped her to her feet, though you didn't miss the confused look she gave you. Instead you chose to ignore the look and dragged her towards the roof.

There was a special entrance to the roof that only you had found. It led to a separate part of the roof that could only be accessed this way. You had turned it into a small oasis where you can be alone and calm down when everything is overwhelming.

'This is beautiful Y/N/N,' Natasha walked around, admiring all the work you had put into this small area. All of the plants were beautiful and well kept. Natasha was in awe.

'I come here when I'm feeling down. It helps to be able to have a place to be alone, it can be so loud down there,' You set out the blankets and pillows you kept up there and laid down, Natasha following and laying beside you.

For hours you didn't even have to say anything to each other, the comfort of knowing you were there if she needed you was enough to help calm Natasha's thoughts, 'It's still warm out, even with the sun being gone,' Natasha was the first one to break the silence. The sun had set and the moon was shining bright above the two of you.

'A funny thing called summer, you've heard of it?' Natasha laughed at you which caused you to smile.

'Thank you for showing me your secret oasis,' Natasha moved her hand so it was laying on top of yours, 'I understand if you don't want me to come here, you did say you like to be alone sometimes,'

'I think I can make an exception for you. Alone with you doesn't sound bad,' You rolled onto your side causing your hand to slip out from Natasha's. You were quick to place your other hand on top of hers when she gave you her best pout. One you just couldn't resist, 'You look beautiful in the moonlight,' You whispered out, loud enough for Natasha to still hear you.

'Thank you for today. I really appreciate what you did for me, I know it isn't easy for you,' Natasha laid on her side, now facing you. Lifting a hand up she cupped your cheek, gently rubbing her thumb across. Natasha leaned in and gave you a small kiss, it didn't last long but you both knew what it meant.

'I'll always step outside of my comfort zone for you Nat,'

[chaoslovesmisery]

Chapter 4. Within Reach

"Mephisto, where are you?" a gentle voice calls out. I reach my hand out.

"Don't leave me," I say, sounding more of a whisper. I see a silhouette of a girl but the light behind her is preventing me from seeing her face.

"I would never leave you or Sylus." She says but I know she's lying. The figure begins to change. Growing larger and larger.

"When I devour you both, we'll be together forever." The voice says distorting into something scary. It grabs onto my arm wrapping it tightly and I can hear the sounds of bones crunching but I can't feel anything.

"Mephisto, you devil. You lied to me." The voice says distorted.

"Mephisto! No, don't do it!" A different voice calls out.

My eyes open and I gasp for breath. Beads of sweat drip down my face as I try to recognize my surroundings. I feel a slightly cold hand touch my forehead and my eyes are met with ruby red eyes.

"Sylus," my voice breaks and it's barely above a whisper as my voice is hoarse.

"Shh, don't speak. You've been out for a week," he says and I look around the room confused. This isn't my room. I sit up and he pushes me back down gently.

"Stop," he orders and I stay put. He hands me a glass of water and I drink it desperately gasping for breath. His face is devoid of emotion as he watches me.

"The Ever Group isn't the only one on the move," I say, putting the glass down on the nightstand.

"I'm aware, Luke and Kieran told me, they've pinned this whole thing on us. Things are going to be moving pretty quickly soon." He says crossing his arms and leaning back on the chair he was sitting on.

"She's going to need to resonate with you if you don't want what happened last time to happen again, you know that right?" I say, staring at my twiddling thumbs.

"I know. It'll happen. I'll make sure of it." His voice is icy, sending a chill down my spine. There is a knock at the door and Luke and Kieran enter.

"You're alive!" Luke says, throwing his arms around me.

"You're heavy, get off!" I yell smiling while I mush his face away.

"It's about time to let the N109-Zone that I'm still here, start making preparations," Sylus says standing up. His phone rings and before he answers it he looks at me with a look I can't quite understand.

"You, rest until I give you an assignment." He says before leaving the room to take his call. It's quiet for a moment before Luke and Kieran both have their arms around me.

"We really thought you weren't going to make it, Meph. Apparently you had breathed in a lot of smoke." Kieran says, patting my head.

"It wouldn't be the first time I've died," I laugh dryly.

"It took us a long time to find you last time, so try not to kick the bucket any time soon." Luke says standing up.

"Dying in the space-time prison, then reincarnating as the Overlord's pet-"

"Hey! Can we not bring this up right now?" I say cutting Luke off. I didn't feel like going down memory lane.

"Do you have any idea where the Ex-Prince is heading?" I asked and Luke and Kieran glance at each other. I sit up and they both push me down by the shoulder trying to prevent me from getting up.

"You heard the Boss, you are not on an assignment right now." Kieran says and Luke nods in agreement.

"What do you mean, I just want to stretch my legs and head out for a bit." I say pushing their arms away and standing up. I stretch my arms up and they don't look convinced.

"Where is he headed? Just so I can avoid the area?" I ask and I know they won't be fooled that easy. They don't say anything.

"Fine, then let's go get a drink instead." I say wrapping my arms around each of their waists as their shoulders were far too high for me to reach.

"Should you really be-" Kieran starts to say.

"Ahh- shut up, I'm not dead yet. Anyways, who cut my hair for me?" I ask to change the subject and we walk out of Sylus' bedroom.

"I did!" Luke says excitedly and I pat his head.

"Good boy," I laugh.

"Hey! What about me?" Kieran says and I cross my arms.

"What did you do for me?" I ask and he begins stumbling over his words.

"I-, I'll buy you the first round?" He says and I purse my lips.

"First three rounds?" He asks and I smile brightly.

"That's my boy," I say, giving him head pats as well. We walk down the hall after leaving Sylus' penthouse and head to our rooms. I changed into a pink skirt and black sweatshirt. I throw on some earrings and a black choker before putting on some long black socks and combat boots. I walk out of my room and meet up with Luke and Kieran.

They smile at me and I have to say they look quite cute with their boyish grins, tousled reddish brown hair, and piercings on their face. We head out and they begin fighting over whose motorbike I'll be riding on with when I whistle loudly.

"Last one to the Nest has to tell Sylus that I'm doing a reconnaissance mission without his permission." I shout laughing before transforming into a crow and both of them have the look of fear when I take off out of the garage.

"Damnit Mephisto!" Luke yells and I can hear the revving of their bikes as they try to catch up. I soar above before seeing a flash of familiar light down an alley. I caw three times to signal that I found something interesting. I can see them park their bikes before making their way up to the roof putting their masks on.

We watch quietly as the Ex-Prince kills what I recognize to be one of his previous teammates from Traceback II, though it looks like he was already in the process of turning into a Wanderer. He looks up but doesn't appear to have noticed us. He picks up the Protocore from the floor and steps out of the alley.

We drop down behind the bar we were about to head to and I transform back to a human. My hair is super long once more and Luke hands me a blade but I push it away.

"I'll leave it for now, I don't want to leave behind evidence." I say and we jump down from the building. We walk through the back of the bar entrance. No one says anything as we walk through the kitchen to the front as they know better than to ask questions. One person who appeared was going to say something too but the moment we made eye contact they looked away in fear knowing who I'm associated with.

I walk to the table in the far corner of the bar that gives a clear view of the bartender and the entrance while there are some large leaves keeping us a bit separated from the rest of the bar. The radio playing behind the counter is loud enough for me to hear.

"...Without a doubt, a-P0159's Sterre Energy has been depleted. What we're seeing is a faint glimmer from the farthest reaches of the universe, and echo from 300 million..." I tune out the radio when I hear the door chime, our eyes dart towards the entrance as we watch the Ex-Prince walk in tossing something over to the bartender behind the counter and plops into a corner seat. A loose, wooly hat keeps his face hidden but I can tell who it is immediately but the other two don't seem aware.

"Take a drink," Luke says, placing a shot-glass in front of me and I grab it, tossing it back, feeling the sting down my throat. They place another drink in front of me.

I watch as the bartender looks down at the item which appears to be a Protocore he had picked up earlier. I watch as the bartender uses a bar towel to wipe it clean and they begin to whisper.

"What do you see?" Two voices whisper in each ear and I stand up straight, surprised. I turn to Luke and Kieran and nod my head towards the bartender and the Ex-Prince in the hat. We watch as they begin to whisper and I have a feeling we've been found out. Traces of light begin to coalesce into a longsword in his right hand.

We hear another chime and the opened door allows a bright light to enter temporarily blinding us. We watch as he pulls his hat down further covering his face. The light sword in his hand quickly dissipates as he stands up and heads toward the exit.

"Should we follow?" Kieran asks but I'm already headed to the door to follow him when I see her. What the fuck is she doing here?! I turn around and Luke and Kieran are by my side checking on me. My hands feel sweaty and my stomach is churning. I turn back around and watch as the door is closing and the light from outside is disappearing. I run towards the door but when I open it I can't find any trace of the Heroine or the Ex-Prince.

"Do you think we were caught?" Luke says and there is a hand that pats my shoulder and I jump. Luke and Kieran are in front of me, who?! I turn around and meet angry red eyes and I almost transform into a crow right there to make a break for it but it's daylight and I don't want to attract attention.

"Yes." He says answering Luke's question and the boy's eyes widen while they turn around.

"Luke, check for any updates in the crime database. Kieran, start prepping for an auction and a new arrival. A guest will be here soon offering themselves as bait no doubt." Sylus says, never breaking eye contact with me. They make themselves scarce real quick and I'm left alone with Sylus. I take a step back and before I can make a run for it he picks me up and begins walking.

"Wait! I didn't know they were going to be at the bar! We were just going to have a drink!" I yell whispering trying to avoid people's curious eyes and ears. He doesn't listen and we walk into the Grand Center's shopping center. He makes a left and I realize he's headed to a photo booth.

"No Sylus! My hair is long and you know how much I hate taking photos!" I say more loudly but he's only humming ignoring me. I try to wriggle out of his grip but I can't budge.

"This is your punishment for disobeying me," he says and we enter the N109-Zone's Wink Snapshot Photo booth that is somehow a popular favorite in this fancy shopping center.

"I'd rather starve for a week! Don't do this!" I plead and I turn and watch as he sets up different colored backgrounds.

"It's only four photos, quite a light punishment if you ask me. I could have you take more and they can be on your own as well as with me," he says and I hide behind his head and wrap my arms around his neck as I hear the sound of the first shot. He drops me down and grabs my face while holding up a peace sign. I try to remove his hand when I hear another snap.

He leans in close and I freeze as his face is inches from mine cornering me against the wall of the booth and I can hear the camera adjust before another shutter sound.

"Make this last one count or we'll have to do it all over again." He says and I groan. I face the camera lifting my hand slightly covering my face and Sylus lifts a finger on his chin staring at the camera while leaning against me. After the sound of the last shutter shot he pats my head.

"Good girl," He says and my eyes widen. I turn around but can feel my face and ears getting warm.

"Since you didn't smile in any of the photos you have one more punishment." He says while printing the photos we took, skipping over the editing phase.

"You will have to attend Romero's birthday banquet with me." He says and my jaw drops.

"What! No! You know I hate social events!" I whine.

"You seem to be just fine hanging out socially with Luke and Kieran, " he says, putting the photos in his wallet, not even giving me a copy. He nudges me forward and we leave the Photo Booth before going upstairs. He pushes me in the shop when his phone rings.

"I have to answer this, try on a few dresses." He says and I'm left alone, my mouth agape. Are you serious?! The shopkeeper approaches me and bows, handing me a book.

"Here are our latest designs. Take your time and try them on, ma'am." They say and I flip through the pages viewing many different designs. The more I try to find the perfect outfit, the more overwhelmed I feel. In a room full of dresses, I already have a headache.

I feel buzzing in my pocket and take out a phone that begins cawing at me. What type of ringtone is this? Wait, did Sylus put this phone in my pocket? I answer the phone and Sylus' voice fills my ear.

"What took you so long?" He asks.

"When did you slip a phone in my pocket and why does it have crows cawing as the ringtone, are you making fun of me?" I ask, ignoring his question.

"Right. I almost forgot I changed your ringtone." He says chuckling.

"Did you find a dress you like?" He asks and I look down at the designs.

"Ah, there are just so many to choose from..." I trail off.

"Since you didn't find anything, come to the top floor, the shopkeeper will escort you." He says before ending the call.

"Wait- ugh!" I yell and the shopkeeper is beside me. I jump, startled, and awkwardly laugh before handing back the design book.

"Right this way, ma'am." She says leading me to the back elevators. The elevator is lined in gold and I can tell she isn't using the service elevator for employees but the elevators for VIP clients. Once we reach the top floor she holds her arm out, ushering me into the room where there are candles on the floor and giant peony's, which definitely look like a fire hazard. I see two glasses on a table along with a bottle of champagne and a white sofa, along with robes in the back.

"Mr. Sylus is inside waiting for you, you will not be interrupted. Please ring us if you need anything." she says before going down the elevator leaving me by myself. The music in the hall is playing gently jazz music. I walk in and see Sylus standing before a floor-length mirror trying on a suit. In the mirror, his gaze faces to me. I don't know why but his calm gaze makes me slightly nervous.

"Long time no see." He says and I look at him dumbfounded.

"...What do you mean? I just saw you an hour ago." I am confused.

"And yet why does it feel like an eternity? Does time fly when you're around?" He says nonchalantly and I am left speechless.

"Save your cheesy pickup lines for her." I say rolling my eyes not in the mood for his jokes. Sylus turns around taking a red and blue tie from the rack, and holds them against his chest.

"Red or Blue," he says with a soft gaze. I walk up to him, taking the red tie and quickly tying it around his neck.

"This one is particularly special, and it matches your eyes. They complement each other. A perfect match." I say and his eyes meet mine. He grabs my hand and lifts the tie next to my face.

"The tie matches more of your eyes than mine, that's what makes it special." He says and I avert my gaze embarrassed.

"Then let's pick a suit that matches this tie." I respond and he crosses his arms and chuckles.

"Then let's do just that." He says and begins casually taking off the suit. I turn around quickly, shutting my eyes.

"I heard Mr. Romero invited some high-ranking people from the Hunters Association. We shouldn't draw attention to ourselves." I state, keeping my voice steady.

"If you say so," I can almost hear the shrug in his voice.

"Have you gone through the design book yet? Where is the designer, have you gotten your measurements taken?" I ask one question after another. I turn my head and in the mirror I see Sylus is in nothing but a towel. He picks up a tape measure and gives it to me.

"Since there's no one around. Let's do it ourselves and save time." He says.

"The shopkeeper mentioned we can call and they would be here right away." I mention and he takes a step towards me and my eyes linger on his chest before looking back at him. He takes another step and I take a step back trying to keep the short distance between us from growing smaller. To my surprise, Sylus puts on an innocent expression.

"Is it that difficult?" He asks and I contemplate for a moment before snatching the tape measure. I loop it around his neck and pull him close and stare at him. I can tell he's slightly surprised by my bold movements and there is a glint in his eye.

"If you insist. Your outfit will be made according to the measurements I take and regardless of how it turns out, you must wear it to the banquet. You can't cheat and secretly ask for a designer to modify it." I state while grinning mischievously. The amusement in Sylus' eyes intensifies.

"Deal," he says, chuckling.

"You've been staring for a while. Where will you start?" He asks, smirking at me standing up straight. I remove the tape measure from around his neck and stare at his bare chest fighting my eyes from wandering to the towel he was wearing around his waist. I wrap may arms around his back, adjust the tape measure for his chest measurements and he lifts his arms.

"100 cm" I say and he narrows his eyes looking down and my hands knowing that I'm not saying the number I see.

"How does one wear such tight clothes?" He asks and I look at his chest again. I don't know if I could handle seeing him in a compressed shirt. I may as well say the correct size.

"Chest, 109 cm," I correct myself and he smiles.

"Good. These clothes will be a perfect fit. I'm sure of it." He says and I move my hands with the tape measure down to his waist. My fingers gently brushed against his pale skin. My fingers tremble a little and I gulp.

"Waist, 75 cm" I say and he lifts my chin.

"Do you want me to wear large clothes? Try again, Little Dove." He says and I adjust my measurements. My mind is a little fuzzy.

"Waist, 72 cm," I say looking up at him and he smiles.

"I thought you were good at this. Did you measure it wrong on purpose earlier." I can tell he's already caught on to my plan and I look away sheepishly. I take a step back and he turns around for me to measure his hips. My hands trembling even more as there is just a towel separating me and ...his hips.

"You alright there?" He asks, snapping my back into reality. I wrap my arms around his waist bringing the tape measure down his hips when the unthinkable happens. The towel slips falling to the floor. I gasp, dropping the tape measure and covering most of my eyes leaving a gap to peak.

His laugh echoes through the empty store and I realize he's wearing black fitted boxers and this man is PACKING. I drop to my knees, hiding my face in my hands. I can feel him kneel down next to me picking up the tape measure and he grabs my hands from my face placing the tape measure down.

"You're almost done," He says brushing a piece of my hair behind my ear and I can tell my face is on fire but he doesn't say anything about it. He grabs my hands pulling me back up off the floor and places my hands around his waist. I adjust the tape measure as he turns allowing me to measure on the side of his hips.

"Hips, 95 cm" I say relieved to be done.

"Perfectly done. Although... Did I just hear a quiet sigh of relief?" He says while grabbing a robe from the white chair. I look at his arms and my body moves before I can think. I grab his arm my thumb running across his arm remembering at one point the bullet holes that once plagued this arm in another life. His skin is warm and with his other arm he pressed me against his body.

"What are you looking at? Are you going to measure my arm too?" He says, sounding amused. I let go of his arm and gently pushed his hand from my waist.

"It's nothing...I'm done." I say turning away. I mean he is still in his underwear, he hasn't put the robe on.

"In any case, we're attending the banquet together. Our outfits should match." He says grabbing my arm and pulling me close again before letting me go. He puts his robe on and after a few seconds pass before I realize what's going on.

"I don't need my measurements taken. I tried wearing some of the dresses downstairs earlier." I say backing up.

"Custom-made clothes fit better than ready-to-wear ones. But I suppose you should pick a style first." he says before making his way to lounge on the sofa.

"Also, if you don't like anything here, we can ask to see a different collection." He says picking up a design book. I wander around the store and grab two dresses. I compare them in front of the mirror and in the mirror, I make eye contact with Sylus who's behind me.

"What were you looking for on my arm?" He asks.

"Nothing..." I can't just tell him I was remembering the past when he had injured himself in the last life. Or ask him why he's so adamant on finding me after I die first instead of the heroine.

"Let me guess, you were remembering some injuries that happened a long time ago?" He asked.

"How did you know?" I ask, confused. His eye wasn't glowing and I wasn't even making eye contact with him.

"It wasn't the gaze trying to find tattoos, sweetie." He says and I look at the dress in the mirror. While I know Sylus has always been good at reading people, the fact that he read my mind still makes me feel somewhat uneasy. Thankfully he doesn't seem to know the other thing that's bothering me. I can't dare bring up the past of when he almost died in the space-time prison because of me.

"Should I blame it on you? You're always getting injured and protecting me and I just... Forget it." I don't want to say anymore. He wraps his arms around my waist and we stare at each other in the mirror. He leans his chin on top of my head and I can feel my heart racing.

"Blame me all you want. I'll always protect you and I will always find you." He says gently. I bite my bottom lip looking down thinking of the words in my dream. Was that him who said that to me? When? No. I must be deluding myself.

"You shouldn't be saying this to me." I emphasize thinking of the Heroine of this game. Maybe the reason I remembered that part of my past life was so it could put me in my place like now. He grabs me by the chin forcing me to make eye contact.

"I will only say this to you." He says and the aether core in his eye begins glowing. I shut my eyes tightly. I feel him let go before realizing that he is taking the dresses from my hand.

"What one's thinking comes into one's dreams." He says nonchalantly. Those aren't empty words, huh. Thinking back to the dream I had while I was unconscious. I didn't always think of the Heroine of this game as the Heroine or a game character. I thought of her as a sister at one point, someone who I could trust...

His arms reach over my shoulders, lifting each dress in front of me he meticulously compares them.

"If there are more happy moments in your life, will you have more pleasant dreams?" He asks suddenly and I think about today. I meet Sylus' gaze in the mirror and slightly smile

"I can try." I say and he puts the dresses on a hanging rack. In the reflection of the mirror I see him grab his wallet from his front pocket and hold up a copy of the pictures we took today.

"Why don't we start today?" He asks and I grab the photos from him seeing the amusement flash in his eyes. I stare at the photos and I can feel my heart begin to race. Although my hair is long in the photos and I HATE taking photos, I can't help but to think they came out well.

****************************************************************

A/N: Chapter based off Sylus Anecdotes, Chapter 8 Galactic Sunset: Part 02 - Part 03, Sylus: Within Reach Memory

Read/Played in order:

1. Minor References Sylus Anecdotes 01: High Alert, Pages 02-03

2. Chapter 8 Main Story Galactic Sunset, Part 02: Desecrated Soil

3. Minor References in Chapter 8 Main Story Galactic Sunset, Part 03: Luminous Veil

4. 5-Star Memory Sylus: Within Reach

[saneijeijei]

Boy and Dragon 3

[Chapter 1 | Chapter 2]

I will correct Kuro (@kuroneko1815) a little, because, after all, William is 6 years old and he could not get into a rabbit on a hunt, a hunter from him to put it mildly… Not the best?..

Willian said he was going to hunt rabbits, and given his stories about the dragon, neither the brothers nor the teacher believed him. They considered the fact that he was scared to death to be the reason why he was unlikely to climb beyond the zone of small animals, so they did not follow him so closely. This was especially true of Oliver and Daniel, who were tired of watching their brother and really wanted to hunt deer. Which is what William used, promising not to leave the zone of small animals and wait, or return to the camp before dark, without telling his parents that they left him alone.

He, using this opportunity, took fish with him and looked for a passage to the cave (namely, the passage to the cave itself), where the dragon was already waiting. Accustomed to the delicious food that William gave away for nothing, Goldie was in no hurry to go hunting. William studied the cave and how everything inside is organized, besides, he was still trying to get proof of the existence of the dragon. While Goldie was sorting out the fish, slowly chewing each one, distracting herself from the boy.

William was looking for a piece of scales that could be used as proof to his father. But as luck would have it, not a single scale was lying behind a single stone.

When Goldie finished, he was taken aback - a lot of time had passed and it was time for him to leave, besides, it would take some time to find an exit and walk along forest trails to return to camp.

"It's time for me, if Dad finds out that instead of hunting rabbits, I wandered into the territory of dangerous animals, he will punish me! And Oli and Dani will give me a thrashing!!"

He quickly waved to the surprised dragon and headed for the walls. He couldn't find a way out with panic and began to worry that he wouldn't be able to get out soon, as Goldie lazily got up, wiped herself against the walls and suddenly a passage formed.

"Oh… Thank you?" William looked at her in surprise and a little tensely, feeling how the dragon's muzzle was a few centimeters above his head.

Goldie stared at him intently for a few seconds, and then pushed him forward, returning back to his place, lazily stretching in his den.

Quickly running through the passage, he finally got out. After looking around that no one saw him, he took off the cover from the arrows and pulled the strap of the quiver tighter. Covering the hole with branches of bushes, he rushed to run to the forest.

But as soon as he relaxed, Oliver appeared from behind the trees on a horse. He had a couple of rabbits and one badger hanging on his side.

"Will, you promised" "Yes, it's just that my arrow flew away--"

The elder brother sighed.

"Will. There is no dragon here. They don't live in such areas, and even more so, even young dragons can't live without their parents. If there were dragons living here, everyone would have known about it long ago. Do you understand me?" "Yes, I just--" "Okay, then let's go to camp. It's going to get dark soon and…" But suddenly the horse rebelled and began to bounce, trying to throw the rider. "What the hell! Tori! Calm down!" Oliver tried to reason with the pet, but the horse don't stopped kicking and rushed back.

William was looking at his brother in confusion as he run away he heard a strange sound. He intuitively grabbed his bow and pulled out an arrow, but when he turned around, he saw a monster. William knew that tigers, bears and something even bigger and scarier could meet in the zone of dangerous and medium-sized creatures… But it was something more frightening.

The boy froze in fright, following the strange look of the creature, when he heard his brother's voice.

"William run!" shouted Daniel, shooting at the monster. "Run and don't turn around!"

Dropping the bow, William ran. He could hear his brother distracting attention and other aristocrats running to Daniel's screams. But the sound of his heart was getting louder by the second when he realized that the monster was not going to let him go. He jumped over branches and roots, ran over logs across rivers, thinking that he could hide in a cave. But almost having reached it, I realized that the passage was gone again. William turned around and rushed towards the clearing - there, hunters will be able to attack monster, among the trees, they are unlikely to be able to get.

He had run halfway through the flower meadow and had already seen the familiar face of Duke Eckhart's youngest son when he slipped and fell. The monster caught up with him.

He covered his head with his hands, when suddenly, everything went dark. The sounds of the monster subsided, resembling a quiet hum. William, frightened, removed his hands and saw the golden scales.

Goldie, covering her body, did not allow the monsters to come closer, throwing back hissing threateningly at the monster.

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

William thought thoughtfully about the story of an elderly woman who diligently took care of the dragon. They had to take her to the camp for further discussion and getting all the details of those events. His Majesty was tired and obviously depressed. He hadn't spoken to anyone since he got back into the carriage.

"We don't have much time.." the father suddenly spoke up."If you believe the words of this woman, the princess is gradually turning into a dragon, losing her mind. If the intervals between turning into a person have started to become less frequent, then we will not be able to talk to her. And it is unlikely that a five-year-old child can tell us how to disenchant her."

"And what are you offering me?" the emperor sighed. "We need the help of wizards. The only one who knows how Leila acted is the Marquis of Verdandi."

"Are you suggesting that I ask for help from the traitor who helped her? What is the probability that this is not his doing?"

"…If the Marquis was the creator of the curse, then he should know how to remove it. There is no magic spell that is not retroactive."

"Ha, what is the probability that he won't decide to finish his plan, huh? This lousy--" "Your Majesty, if he wanted to, he would have finished what he started long ago."

Callisto winced as if from a blow.

"It's been almost ten years. The Marquis has paid enough for his crime. We can't do it without him, please think about it".

When Callisto wanted to challenge the assistant's argument, there was a deafening howl. This sound was made by the mountain itself, as if suffering from pain and despair.

"What the…" said Cedric in surprise, intuitively trying to find the source of the sound in the dark. "This is Goldie… And she.. Crying?"

William grabbed the door handle and tried to open it when Cedric, surprised by his son's actions, stopped him.

"What are you doing?!"

"Sound! The hunters and the wizard from the rumors said that they heard howling, as if it was a pack of wild wolves, right? But when they were looking for her, they were walking day or night when there was no sound! None of them said they were following the sound! They knew about the sound from the words of the residents!" "And.. I don't understand what you're driving at?" William was taken aback, having lost all words in his head. "We can find her because of her sound! The barrier can hide the passage, but it cannot drown out the sound! That's why we hear it!"

"If we find the source of the sound, will we find the passage?" said Callisto. "Exactly! William said enthusiastically, grabbing the handle again. "That's why we need to hurry up!"

Stopping the carriage, the company moved into the forest. Callisto, having built a kind of torch, walked in front, while William followed him, and Cedric stood last, making sure that no one attacked from behind. They were guided by the sound, but sometimes, the road seemed strange.

"I've never been here. And Goldie has never flown near this mountain," Will said. "But the sound comes from here." Cedric said.

"Yes, but if you stand here," the boy walked five meters away from the group. "Then the sound comes from the other side altogether."

"Maybe…Is the barrier the reason?" Cedric thought about it. "What if there's a barrier inside the barrier?" "And everyone has their own protection function?" added Callisto. "Isn't the barrier just supposed to protect?" William was perplexed. "That's right, but magicians of a higher level, or at least those who understand the trick of magic spells, can cross spells with each other. More precisely, to cross spells that do not contradict each other. Simply put, defensive magic can get along with magic that is used for traps," explained Cedric.

"That is, here" - the boy approached the supposed line where one barrier ended and the other began. - "A place where both barriers don't work?" "Yes, so here we better understand where the sound is coming from." Callisto listened. "Over there. I think the sound is coming from there." "And there's a waterfall!" shouted William.

The group quickly went to the waterfall. After carefully examining it, William found the very place where Goldie had dragged him. "Here!" - after passing through the water, under the displeased cries of Cedric that he would get so wet, the boy found a passage into the cave. "We have a long way to go. The tunnel is long." "Then let's not waste any time."

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

"We've been walking for an hour! And the Tunnel doesn't end!" whined William. "It's weird," Cedric assured.

Callisto snorted and took out a magic ball from under his cloak and turned it on.

"What the.. Your Majesty?!" "Oh, and good night to you, Duke. Gather several groups and send them to the south mountain to search. There is a small waterfall, and in it is the entrance to the cave. We need to explore all the passages to find the entrance inside." "Inside?… Why…?"

The Emperor pursed his lips, not knowing whether to speak or not. But still decided.

"We found traces of Penelope. We need to get inside the mountain to find out the whole truth about what happened to it. Inform the Marquis about this first, he should help."

"Why didn't you tell him?" Porter Sr. was perplexed. "He's already buried her. He would hardly have helped us, knowing that he would have to bury her again." "Your Majesty--" "Come on, I think I'm starting to hear Judith's voice."

William was surprised when he saw the light, but continued walking. Finally coming out, he was momentarily blinded until he saw a kind of bonfire in the center. It was rather some strange coals that shone brightly and gave off heat. He looked around and finally saw a golden tail peeking out of a small cave.

"Goldie! You're here!"

He climbed up and jumped on Goldie, hugging the dragon's big neck as best he could. But Judith did not look at him, remaining in the same position. "Goldie? What's the matter with you?" The dragon continued to stare sullenly at one point in front of him, or rather at the statue. Around her, the dragon laid out strange coals because of which the cave was quite warm. "Your mom…" realizing the reason, William stroked the dragon. "I'm so sorry, Goldie."

"But! Look who I've brought!" he gestured to his father and the emperor that they could approach. "The Emperor has been looking for you and your mother for a long time. When he found out what happened, he tried to find you. He missed you and the lady madly. Because he's your dad."

[funkymbtifiction]

hi! maybe it's a bit broad, but how can withdrawn types convince themselves to seek connection with other people?

Well, WHY do you want a connection to other people?

Identify that, and decide how much you want it, and that will help you get somewhere toward moving forward.

If you are lonely and want friends -- how bad do you want them? Bad enough to put in the effort required to meet people and then maintain a relationship? If the answer is yes, then comes the self-discipline of forcing yourself out of your comfort zone to connect to others, attend events with them, invite them places, etc.

The same goes for a romantic partner. How badly do you want one? Bad enough to put in the effort required to attract someone and then hold onto them and maintain their connection?

Instead of saying no to "do you want to eat with us?" ... say yes. Try it. Instead of ignoring a coworker who seems nice and wants to "get together sometime," set up a time and place to do that. Why? Because you put your goal in your mind: I want X. (I want friends. I want a romantic partner. I want this person to like me, so I get that promotion. Etc.)

understanding that i must do it doesn't help the fact that i still constantly feel like my presence is unneeded. do you just have to do it and ignore your feelings/reasoning for isolating? 

Do you need to be needed to participate? Or can you just decide to participate because it would bring fulfillment to your life?

There are two ways to do this, based on two psychological models. One is your motivations don't matter, provided you form a habit of doing a task (in this case, being friendlier becomes easier the more you force yourself to do it). The other is that you deal with your inner feelings and thoughts first and point them in the right direction, and use that to motivate you on the days you don't want to do X. Either one works, IF YOU STICK TO IT. But be aware, it's going to go against your natural "withdrawn" nature, so it will be hard and discomforting. But it will also get easier over time.

i try to bond with people over activities and become somewhat close with them, but as soon as i feel down or something bad happens, i isolate myself, even thought i logically know that there are people who would support me, if i asked them to. 

That's fine, but maybe also remind yourself to think about how they feel when you disappear without an explanation. Is this hurtful? Are they confused? Are they assuming they hurt your feelings? Or that you don't care about them? Sometimes a solution is as simple as telling them, "I disappear when I get upset. Please don't take it personally, since it's more than likely not something you did! It's just me processing my feelings/whatever is happening!"

A 9 friend didn't tell me that her mother had died until 4 weeks after the funeral. She didn't think about it and didn't want to 'burden me' -- but it made me sad, because I wasn't allowed to be there for her, and offer silent moral support, even if she didn't "need me." If I had not known about the Enneagram, I would have wondered if she thought we weren't good enough friends to tell me about the hard things in her life. Now I know that she just handles them alone.

[stylistiquements]

Day 1 : Soap Bubbles.

𐐪𐑂 Pairing : Sapnap x fem!reader {Playlist}

𐐪𐑂 Summary : You're being introduce to the internet in a peculiar way, it's up to you to decide what you're going to do with it.

𐐪𐑂 Word count : 1.4k | W: written part underneath

𐐪𐑂 Warning : very few swears

Masterlist | Previous | Next

.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・　　 .・゜゜・　　・゜゜・

The coffee that sinks inside your stomach brings out a grimace and a click of your tongue where the taste stains; too bitter, too acidic but you’ll drink it anyway and to the last drop; there is something about the idea of spending time with three best friends that is so made of spring and honey that you wish to miss none of it.

“Someone is lurking,” George contemplates out loud, and the call goes silent for a second as if to look for the intruder. And it would so easy to flinch, to hit the back pedal, because you almost feel like one being exposed front stage like that. But today- today is not that day.

It's not that you don't want to join the discussion, it's that it takes a second to warm up, to absorb the energy and become one with it.

And sometimes, all it takes is Sapnap to exclaim, “Panini head, my beloved!” for your smile synchronizes with his chuckles. Somehow, once noticed by the right person, life flows back naturally.

George and Dream greets you in trailing unison, like two kids forced to greet their unwelcomed aunt on a sunday afternoon.

“H-hey troublemakers,” you finally say. Your voice is still quiet, not reluctant, but rather uncertain. It doesn't bother anyone.

“I’m beating Dream’s ass at chess and he’s bitter,” Sap explains, and you silently nod, as if they were able to see you.

A long silence follows along, rythmed by clicks of mouses and keyboards and it falls in your ears like high droplets. It's comfortable. It's intimate, shared with friends only.

"We haven't heard from you in a while," Dream says. "I mean ... before the clout fiasco."

You wouldn't exactly call it a fiasco, even though you don't really like the idea of being perceived a little too closely from the eyes of twitter.com, but you do agree anyway, "I've been caught up on college essays lately."

"That sucks," George probably adds.

“Good thing you’re here, then,” Dream notes, simple as a breath. “This is a worry-free zone.”

It hovers for a second, carried by George’s approval hum.

You squint suspiciously, detective mode, at the profile pictures that light on and off before your eyes, “Thanks, dream.”

He scoffs a “sure” and you’re not sure why you sense a bit of irony stuck on the back of his teeth. You're so tempted to call him out, but you don't. Instead, you write a mental note of this odd moment.

“It’s because I told him about your three brothers and now he’s scared they’re gonna find him and kick his ass,” Sap explains as if he just read your mind.

Sometimes, there’s this thing in the air, though you’re miles away. Something like a connection. There’s this thing when you don’t need to talk for Sap to understand. Sharing one brain cell, you dismiss ironically. Probably coincidences and predictability, but it always sounds a little special, a little like something you��d wish to be out of this world, like morning dew and fairy circles. And it makes you feel safe, at home, just like snuggling up in the sheets during a stormy night. Your smile washes up the sleeve of your hoodie, covered palm carefully hiding your chuckles.

“Three older brothers,” George muses, and there’s no telling if it’s something meant for you to hear. “That’s kinda scary.”

“You better be scared, one of them is probably your FBI agent,” you tease mindlessly, though there's nothing scary about those three grown men.

“I’m British, Bunny,” he points out. Whether the exasperation in his tone is fake or genuine, that, you can’t tell, but you play it cool, grin carved so deep it almost hurts. Dream’s wheezes rise and fall in the background.

“Say that to his face then,” you outbid smirkingly after a second of silence, heels growing into the carpet to make your chair spin slowly left and right, so breezily.

“I’d praise you for the rest of my life if you-Oooooooh your ass is wacked. Your ass is so wacked, dude. You fucked up so bad,” Sapnap chokes out between strings of giggles.

“Oh no, my streamer is losing his game?” You theatrically pout. “My streamer Dreamwastaken, have you met him? Guess you don’t need any of my brothers to kick your ass.”

“Okay yeah- no- it’s not my fault if your- they’re distracting me, okay?” Dream defends.

Slowly, the energy lowers again and the call remembers peace as Dream admits defeat.

“I’m not playing against you anymore,” he mumbles through greeted teeth, your hoodie shelters a muffled giggle. “Let’s talk about y/n’s twitter fame instead.”

“Let’s just not-” you mutter, both because seeing Dream lose at something is a miracle that has to be witnessed once and because you’re somewhat reluctant. “Let’s just not talk about that.”

“Yeah, sorry about that. I had no idea it would draw this much attention to you,” Sap admits.

“Well, you talk about her all the time it was only a matter of time before twitter finds out,” George taunts and you secretly smile, listening to the way your best friend tries to defend himself, mind flooded with the last memories you have of when you were able to see those chuckles for real.

“Yeah, Quackity already told me you guys talk behind my back,” you fakely muse. “That’s totally fine, I don’t wanna know what you guys are talking about at all.” It’s a lie, obviously, the idea creeps upon your mind with assumptions you can’t quite get a grip of nor let go.

“You and Quackity talk?’ Sapnap asks, hint of surprise, and you hum.

“Or rather, he talks to me. He keeps calling-.” Shit. The forsaken word traps itself into your mouth. It’s too silly anyway.

“Come on, just say it,” Dream pushes as if he knew too much, more than you even do, and your cheeks flush mindlessly. You don’t notice.

“Dream, quit it!” You demand.

“Quit what?”

“You talk as if you knew more than anyone did.”

“Maybe I just do,” he coos, so dream-like.

Oblivious or careless, Sapnap asks, “Is Quackity bothering you or something?”

“He-" you begin but stop to look for the right way to put it, "He triggers my flight or fight response.”

"I mean, duh," Sapnap probably rolls his eyes.

"But I like him. He's funny."

After a second of silence, George says, “Well that was unexpected.”

“Not so much, I think we’re both chaotic neutral people.”

“What is that neutral chaotic thing anyway?” Dream is confused.

Roll up your sleeve girl boss because now is your time to shine! You offer your best dream smp alignment chart to the classroom. They're speechless, but they listen carefully.

"Then you're more chaotic good than neutral. You're too sweet anyway," Sap says.

"I'd even say lawful good," George debates.

"That's because you haven't seen Bunny during her crazy cat hour."

"True," you note.

"She'll go absolutely batshit."

“What?" George burst between confusion and surprise. "We've never seen you like that."

"A lady never reveal her secrets," you retort. No one answer.

It leaves a second for your mind to enjoy peace. For your eyes to lay on c!tubbo on lawful good and think true, then on c!dream on chaotic evil and think also very true. You huff and it's like a wave; as sarcasm leaves your breath, an idea comes in.

"Sap, check your DMs," you request.

Surrounded by the evening lull, Sapnap’s laugh pops like soap bubbles, "God, you’re so stupid. Why can't you just marry me?"

“So, is it Sapnap approved?” You chuckle lightly to prevent Sapnap’s morning fresh laugh to fill your chest and leak everywhere.

“Just press ‘send tweet’ please,” he confirms with leftovers of a smile in his voice.

"George, get me out of here. They're doing it again," Dream whines.

"Doing what?" He asks, unbothered.

"Act like they're alone in the convo. Just get a room." And you don't get to stand up for yourself that you and your best friend are actually sent to another room.

"Well this one is chaotic evil confirmed," you mumble as you roll your eyes but the vibes are much peaceful, much more comfortable in here. "So ... hi."

"Hi," he chuckles in return.

Maybe that's for the best; a moment that needs to stay a little timeless, secretive and special. It hasn't happened in so long, you don't even remember the last time it did.

"I'm glad you're here. I miss you, you know?" He says, and it's hard to not feel so bittersweet about it. It's hard when longing involves a craved touch, a real smile and an eye contact. Your shoulder sinks in the chair a little harder.

"I miss you too. I'll be here soon," you promise. And soon couldn't come any sooner.

But the conversation, soft and free, will wash up any worries, as always, and you'll end up talking about everything and nothing, about streams and planned videos and college and god knows what. As long as it makes the two of you happy and smiling. Just like the old days, you'll both think and it's fair to say until the evening turns into night and night turns into fatigue.

"Are you sure you're okay about that clout?" He asks once again. "I know you don't like being exposed like that."

"Yeah, yeah don't worry too much about it. I'll try to make good use of it."

"I'm sure you will," he murmurs, but oh boy did he not know what was about to come until you two meet.

.・゜゜・　　・゜゜・　　 .・゜゜・　　・゜゜・

Taglist : @open-minded-chip-101 ; @itsoakaa ; @gaysludge

A/N : so first of all it has come to my attention that 129 days from now on is actually my birthday so that's a weird coincidence lol. Hi how are you guys?? welcome to the first part I hope you liked it. I'm fairly new to the mcyt community and that's the first time I write for them, so bear with me. Feedbacks are always appreciated. Until next time (ɔˆ ³(ˆ⌣ˆc)

[peakyblindersxx]

whiskey business - john shelby x reader (part 8 of ?)

gif by @thesoldiersminute can i send you a cake or something cause fuCk!!!!!!!!!!! he's beautiful

a/n: to everyone still reading this fic, my sweet angels, ily!! this fic is so near and dear to my heart and @stxdyblr-2k has just done such an amazing job with it i can't even thank her enough. as per the last part, this one is also mostly her, just me editing but i hope you guys love it as much as i did!!! don't worry, there's gonna be a lot more :) and i apologize for being not as active, i'm gonna try to get a couple of requests up that i'm really excited about this week tysm for being patient with me <3

love, abi xxx

read part one two three four five six seven | my masterlist

prompt: ada has some talking to do, and you're not about to deny her.

warnings: fluff, semi-angst, tommy being the cocky mf he is (let's be real, it's only acceptable cause he's so damn fine), john being cute and in love and jesus i am head over heels

tagging: @datewithgianni, @mayaslifeinabox, @deepdonutkid, @springsoulofengland, @lilymurphy03, @operation-spot

You had planned to go to Ada's after work, but she obviously had other ideas. She didn't even bother walking in and asking to speak to you; instead, choosing to bang on the window closest to your desk and yelling at you to "fucking hurry up!" Your boss opened the door for you expectantly, not offering you any protection; he was firmly in the Shelby's ever growing pocket and as long as he could go home to his children, his sickly wife and their six bed in the country, with a full time nurse and nanny, he had no interest in crossing Thomas.

"Ada, I was coming to see you after work, I swear."

"I know. I was going to let you but..." She trailed off. "We need to talk. I don't know what the fuck is going on with you. John said he'd seen you last night and you asked after me."

John had indeed seen you last night. It was strange waking up with him, used to leaving almost immediately after he was finished with you. Your small bed could barely comfortably fit you both, having to intertwine your limbs with John's to not fall off the edge. You had awoken to John pressing a kiss to your forehead before lazily trailing his fingers between your legs, waiting for you to open your eyes before settling between your thighs, tongue swirling around your clit, making you cum before sunrise.

"Do we have to do this in the street?" You practically begged, the shouting having attracted onlookers.

"I wanted to talk to you before anyone else in the family gets to you because I need you to be honest."

"Ada-"

"No, I'm doing you a favour here, so you fucking listen. Right now, between you and I, no bullshit. No tactics. No white lies. You have to tell me exactly what we're dealing with." She looked frantic, scared for some reason.

You nodded, walking her down the side street, careful not to link arms with her. You knew she was doing you a favour; this wasn't about forgiveness or friendship, much more was at stake here.

"To what extent was Thomas involved?"

That took you off guard. Ada read the confusion on your face and sighed impatiently, her subtle plea for you to keep up.

Shit. You remembered your conversation with John, how she thought this was her brother's way of pushing her out of the company.

"Don't spare my feelings. What did my brother say to you?"

"He said it was in our mutual interest that you didn't find out. He didn't care who John slept with but cared who you trusted so I had to trust him. He said there was no point in upsetting you over one of John's conquests who he'd tire of in a month."

"That all?"

"Pretty much, I didn't know Arthur knew. He never talked to me about it, did laugh at Thomas' digs now that I think on it-"

"Did you know Isaiah and Michael knew?"

"I thought they were aware but no one ever talked to me about it."

"Of course they wouldn't." She hissed, frustration causing a nerve on her neck to jump.

Ada and you had spoken for years about the rampant misogyny of her brothers and any men you two came into contact with. Although you were both far more reserved than you used to be as rebellious and adventurous thirteen year olds, you'd both grew increasingly angry at how you were treated. She'd long written off her brothers as womanisers, who saw women as purely sexual and entertaining, objectifying them. You both long despised how they dehumanised women. She was amazed that Thomas had attempted to settle down and managed a somewhat loving marriage, but resented him for his carelessness and need for power which inevitably killed his wife.

"Ada, I just want to say..." You licked your lip nervously, unsure of how to continue.

"You need to talk, Y/N. No bollocks."

"Before last night, he'd never been to mine or called. I always went to him."

The muscle in her jaw tensed.

"You slept with him last night then?" You met her question with silence and she rolled her eyes. "The second he said he saw you I knew you had, he wanted to tell me that he was going to continue seeing you and that he hoped I'd be able to accept it one day."

"We never intended to hurt you. It was meant to be fun at first, but now..." You cut yourself off with a sigh, unable to admit you'd fallen for her brother.

"Isn't fun for me. It's fucking embarrassing." She paused, lighting a cigarette, nervous to offer you one, conflicted within herself. She raised her eyebrow, prompting you to continue, the mannerism so similar to her brother’s.

"It should never have happened. I am never going to be able to fix this, I'm so fucking ashamed for doing this to you, Ada."

She sulked, silently drinking in your words.

"Obviously it's not going to be the same, yeah? I'm really fucking upset. I'm so fucked off with you but Poll's really worried about a coup. She thinks you're being used as blackmail against John to keep him on side with Tommy while he expands."

"Makes sense."

"You're part of a much bigger game, you know?"

You nodded. "Yeah, and I knew I would lose from the start. Fucking tragic, Ada."

"My brothers keep pushing, keep growing the business. They keep chasing this prize but I don't think it even exists."

"If it does, it isn't worth it if this shit is the cost. I didn't mean to play into his hands."

"You couldn't have known." She said with a shrug, " 'Siah thinks John loves you."

"He told me last night." Several times, this morning also. You would never tire of hearing him moan those words into your neck or being yelled from your front door as he left for the office.

"You love him, don't you?" She said bluntly, a statement more than a question, your face suddenly hot with embarrassment.

Everything you'd suppressed for months, everything that you'd hidden, every time you lied smiling, every knowing glance from a stranger, every degrading comment from under Thomas' breath.

"I do, an awful lot."

She pauses, relighting her cigarette, "The worst thing about the entire situation is it could've been fine if someone told me. I wouldn't have loved it, obviously, but-" Ada sighed, rubbing her temple with her free fingers.

"I thought you'd hate me."

"How could I? I'd be more angry that you'd drop your standards for my brother. Seriously? Him? Mate…."

"Come off it, I've always thought he was charming. He's funny, smart-"

"Don't gush over my brother, it's grim. I'm just so fucked off you all lied to me." She peered at you through her cigarette smoke. "If you love him and he loves you..." she pressed her lips together as she tensed her jaw, "I could get over it. If it'd make you both happy. But that's going to take a long time. A long time."

"Ada-"

"Look I have meetings and shit to sort, I have to run." She interjected, checking her wristwatch, adjusting the cap which sat atop her trendy short haircut. You caught her arm before she could turn away.

"Thank you. For understanding."

She shrugged you off, "I don't get it, I'd never do that to you. But you also don't get to choose who you're attracted to. I'm really hurt, but I do love you and John a lot. He mentioned that after last night you helped him, got him cleaned up. I have to believe that you both do love each other. So I have to believe that this is a good idea for you both and not stand in your way."

"I love you, Ada. Can we hang out soon, just us two?"

She shook her head. "I need some time, I'll be in touch, yeah?"

You nod, stretching out your pinky finger. She sighed and linked it with hers, as you'd done since you were children, a silent signal to each other after a fight that you still had the other's back.

"Right, I've got to get back to this meeting, Tom is getting done by Polly for nearly getting John killed. I need to be there in case one of the lads needs patching up."

"Your aunt has a nasty left hook, I'll give her that."

"She'll be pleased you think so, she wanted Tommy to slice you to bits for crossing me."

"Fuck’s sake, thanks for the warning, I'll keep my head down. Good luck with the meeting."

Ada nodded and you watched her walk away, a Blinder suddenly appearing by her side seemingly from nowhere. This city was crawling with them. They clambered into Ada's car as you watched the car disappear into the distance before walking back to work. Thankfully, with your head still attached to your shoulders.

*******

Ada arrived at Thomas' estate, following the swell of shouting voices to his exquisite library. It was eye roll worthy and typical Tommy to choose the location of his post-fuckup debrief to be where he had the best view of the gardens, river and rolling hills. She could bet he'd sit in a corner and stare at the view, zoning out their aunt's lecture.

An armed blinder she vaguely recognised opened the door. Thomas was making a statement today with the armed guards, she noted. Her brothers really were fucked up. Arthur was an alcoholic killer who couldn't understand that Thomas would betray them all eventually, Finn was letting the tokyo and the razor chasers that circled him distract him from keeping the family together, John was apparently in love with her best friend, and finally, Thomas nearly got Arthur and John murdered last night with his foolishness. At this point only herself and Polly were holding everyone together, keeping everything silently moving along.

The door opened, and she was the last to arrive, Polly glaring as she murmured an apology, standing next to Finn. His eyes were bloodshot, grey-purple smudges under his eyes, he'd obviously had a heavy night. The last thing the poor lad needed was Polly's shrill yelling and the blinding sun streaming through the large immaculately crafted windows, which he'd tried to block with the brim of his cap. John caught her eye, acknowledging his sister with a nod, which she returned with a small tight smile.

Ada couldn't bear to think about the reasoning behind her brother's smug interjections in between Polly's rant to Thomas who was listening wordlessly, smoking.

Y/N and John? It didn't make sense. They had a similar sense of humour, sure, but she was far too intelligent for him. He also had a swarm of children, while Y/N preferred a wild night out only staggering home at daybreak.

It made far more sense for Y/N to end up with Michael, or if it had to be a brother, Finn. They were younger, so had less responsibilities and commitments so they could keep up with her. But John? Of course she knew he was believed to be the Casanova of her brothers, he was kind, he was an excellent father, yet he could never keep anyone around long, usually John was chasing someone new after a month or so. That's why the revelation that John had been involved with her best friend for almost half a year had taken her completely by surprise. Maybe that was why she was open to them being together. That had to be it. This relationship was completely out of character for John; she needed to believe that he was serious about his feelings towards Y/N and wasn't going to fuck her over. Because if he did, John would be a dead man.

"I don't know why you're all bleating at me. Yeah, I overlooked some details in the planning of last night's meeting-"

"Such as warning us that they were really fucked off because you'd helped bomb their warehouse." John pointed out.

"What do you want me to do? Apologise? Grow up, John." Tommy snapped back.

"They had loaded guns against their heads, they deserve an apology." Ada interjected, John giving her an appreciative flash of smile. She did love her big brother. Despite the fact that she'd pretty much only been yelling at him for the past month, John never dismissed her feelings and only apologised. It was confusing to admit to herself, but when Isaiah told her that he was confident John loved Y/N, she felt a wave of relief. At least he cared about her; it was the bare minimum but the Shelbys were notorious for not even meeting the bare minimum for acceptable social interactions.

"They didn't fuckin’ get shot." Thomas stated, his voice matter of fact and condescending.

"Do you ever hear yourself speak?" Polly spit back at him. "They didn't get shot this time. But it was too fucking close."

"It won't happen again, Polly." Tommy sighed. "What else can I say? Sorry lads, take the weekend off?"

"It's a good start." Arthur countered, "You're also paying for the extension on my house and my wedding."

"Fuck’s sake Arthur I was joking. But fine. Sure."

"You can't buy your family off." Polly scoffed at him.

"Think of it as compensation, a settlement." Thomas coolly corrected his aunt. "What do you want, John? A fucking farm?"

John hesitates while Finn whispered suggestions to him, Ada meeting his stare, John raising a brow to her in question. She sighed and nodded her approval.

"You can pay off my mortgage Tom, give me the kids' birthdays off-"

"So you'd never come into work then?" Finn cut in, Ada elbowing him in the ribs. She usually enjoyed Finn's remarks but she knew where John was heading; she could barely breathe.

"Tom, you're also to leave Y/N completely alone. If you have a problem with her, you come to me about it." He said firmly.

Arthur and Tommy traded knowing looks, obviously more aware of the ins and outs of his relationship than Ada was.

"Also if you're paying for Arthur's wedding I want the equivalent in cash." He adds.

Tommy shrugged. "Whatever. As long as we can move past last night and focus on today's order of business."

John nodded, satisfied. He knew Tom wouldn't care, but just saying out loud that he was involved with Y/N and having his family aware was a relief. He hadn't realised until he finally admitted how stressful keeping his relationship a secret was. Now, he could stop worrying about Tommy interfering.

Polly rolled her eyes, lecturing the brothers on their lack of moral backbone to allow themselves to be bought off, but dismissed them. She caught Ada's arm in hers on their way out, pulling her far from earshot.

"So Y/N and John are together now?" She asked, her face firm and scowling.

"Polls, I talked with her, she's aware of what she's done. She apologised and meant it. What more can I ask for?"

"Her not to have fucked him in the first place."

"She said that. Look, Polls, they're happy right? John seems happy-"

"He always is when he gets a leg over."

"You know she looked after him last night? Fixed him up after the meeting."

"Meeting? It was a fucking set up." Polly hissed but her face had softened. "She cleaned him up?"

"Antiseptic, bandages and all."

Polly looked subtly impressed, although she'd never admit it. "He went to hers? Not yours?"

"He wanted to talk to her." Ada shrugs, "I saw her this morning and-"

"What do you mean? You bumped into her?"

"I went to her work." Ada admitted, her aunt shooting her an exasperated glare.

"Why do I bother? Nobody listens to me."

"I had to talk to her, I'm glad I did. She reckons she loves him, he told her last night that he loves her, so..."

"We are talking about John? Our John?"

"I know Polls, I'm as amazed as you."

Her aunt huffed, unimpressed. "Are you okay with it though?"

"I guess, I just want them to be happy. I've told them to give me time with it."

"She was a good friend growing up, but people change, sometimes for the better, often for the worse."

"Poll, it's Y/N; she's my best friend. At the end of the day, we'd do anything for each other."

"Sweet Ada, you're going to be so miserable if you keep letting people walk all over you." Polly said wisely, kissing her goodbye affectionately. "I hope you're right. If she makes you cry again I'll kill her myself."

"Thanks, Polls."

She knew her aunt wasn't joking.

[thunderheadfred]

❄️Todoroki HC's🔥

Aged-up pro hero Shouto. NSFW under the cut. Minors do not interact.

- - -

General

Might as well be tied with Bakugou for the #1 pro hero spot; they seem to pass the crown back and forth every other year. Everyone knows about their intense frenemies uber-rivalry. Well. Everyone but Shouto.

He's asked to speak at a lot of charity events. If he has time to prepare (and hire a speech writer) he is capable of stirring crowds to standing ovations. But if caught unawares... he gets cornered into hilarious on-the-spot interviews. He's been memed. Mercilessly.

He's an OP character, but unfortunately he rolled -500 in fashion sense. Eventually he wises up and hires a stylist. When he finally cuts his hair a slightly different and even more flattering way, it's a national event. People faint in the street.

Does god-awful sleight-of-hand magic tricks when he meets young fans, even though nobody asked him to. The second-hand embarrassment is palpable. But he keeps doing it. God, why does he keep doing it?

Has hovering arm syndrome in every fan photo.

Super into pop music. Not a fan of any particular group or artist, couldn't tell you the name of a single song. But every time he turns up the volume on the radio it's like... really? THIS? Probably pumps that shit through his hero agency to keep up morale. Has no idea what you mean when you tell him his music taste doesn't match his personality.

Similarly, he enjoys brainless romantic comedies and old silent movies. Doesn't laugh at jokes but loses it over physical comedy. Thinks Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd are the funniest people who ever walked the earth.

He's long and limber. Runs practically a hundred miles every day just to "relax." Doesn't even get sweaty doing it. A filthy yoga addict. He'll probably live to be 200 years old.

He can regulate his body temperature for quirk use but in everyday life he's always half a degree outside the Goldilocks zone. It drives him quietly insane; he has an epic love-hate relationship with his thermostat.

Has a therapy animal pet. Doesn't matter if it's a dog or a cat or a bird or an iguana or a teeny tiny rodent. It's the best-behaved animal in the country and speaks more languages than you. It has its own room and an instagram account with millions of followers.

Lives in a traditional Japanese estate that doubles as a national treasure. Probably has government-appointed snipers at the gate, and he's just like, "don't worry about it." You are afraid to touch anything. Fuck, don't even look at anything, just to be safe.

Has an outstanding personal chef who only gets to cook five things unless (thank fuck!!) company comes over. Impossibly picky eater. He rotates between a few "safe" foods and suspiciously side-eyes everything else. If you cook something unfamiliar for him it will be the most awkward meal of your life, because he'd never tell you he doesn't like it. But oh lord, just look at his face.

This clashes directly with his love of traveling. Frequently uses his hero earnings to visit exotic foreign locales over long weekends... but rarely tries the food.

- - -

Dating

A grey-ace demisexual disaster. You could count the number of people he's been attracted to on one hand. He falls madly in love every time and always gets his heart smashed to pieces when his crush can't magically intuit the meaning of his frigid longing glances and generically courteous romantic gestures.

Which is stupid, because he gets propositioned constantly. He can't walk out the door without being flirted with. People keep slipping him their phone numbers and he always directs them to his agency like a moron. It's a good thing he will never understand how attractive he is because that's the only thing keeping him from total world domination.

Conventional attractiveness does not compute. Shouto doesn't have a type, doesn't care that he's an eleven whilst you are merely mortal. He will fall for your personality above all else.

Probably falls head over heels because your schedules overlap in a completely ordinary way and he witnesses you doing something endearing or brave or most likely: utterly mundane.

Pick a favorite, because you're his favorite coworker, or his favorite barista, or his favorite random bystander in line at the grocery store. You made him smile once; then he spent the next three months daydreaming about your future together before you accidentally stomped on his foot, initiating your first real conversation.

He's big on healthy communication. HUGE. He goes to therapy and it shows. Will talk through literally everything to the point of delirium. Sometimes his dedication to resolving every issue right away can get overwhelming; sometimes you just need some frickin time alone. But it pays off, because the two of you have practically never have a "real fight." There's just no way for bad vibes to fester.

STILL, his family wasn't exactly... erm... verbally or emotionally supportive, shall we say. For that reason, he might not give you all the compliments you deserve, because it simply doesn't occur to him to do so. He assumes you know how he feels. If you're self-conscious or insecure in the relationship, it might take him a while to notice. But when he figures it out (or even better, when you tell him directly) he will make it up to you with enthusiasm.

Will take you on lavish dates. Spoils you rotten without actually intending to. He's clueless about money. If you wanted a sugar daddy, you just hit the fucking jackpot. But if the word valet makes you uncomfortable, perhaps suggest some romantic picnics instead. He can still go all out with the food and five-star location without making you see cartoon dollar signs.

Chronic Insomniac. Stays up too late watching YouTube every night. His viewing history is an incomprehensible blur of k-pop music videos, serial killer icebergs, and super girly crafty ASMR channels. When he's watching a video, he is unreachable. Please call back later and try again.

He's disgustingly cute when he sleeps. Doesn't snore, but drools. Sometimes the drool freezes and leaves frost trails on his face in the morning. Still sleeps with the giant stuffed cat pillow that his mother gave him when he was like, zero. He'll inadvertently suffocate you with it, and you will welcome death with open arms because awwwwww!!!!!

The first time he tells you he loves you will be after your traditional Japanese shinto wedding. You won't hear it again until you start a family. Honestly, it's a good thing he doesn't say it often and is always holding you when it happens. It's a knee-buckler.

- - -

Icy-Hot

I don't even need to say it. Shouto is as old-fashioned as they come. You will never open another door or pull out another chair for yourself as long as you live. He will ask before he holds your hand. He will ask before he kisses you. He will stop and check in if you so much as breathe funny during sex.

If you don't orgasm at exactly the same time while staring into one another's eyes, he'll consider himself a failed lover. God forbid you want him to pound you into the futon... cause you are going to have to present that scenario to him in writing first.

Physical intimacy rarely leads to sex. He loves cuddling, craves physical affection. He'll sprawl all over you and turn into goo while you hold him close. He's an amazing, astounding, phenomenally good kisser. And that's... nice and all... but sometimes you have to grab his face and say, "Shouto, I'm horny," before he's like so that's why you're currently dry-humping me?

Even if he isn't technically a virgin the first time (or the millionth time) you sleep together, you won't know the difference. He's a blushing violet. Every. Fucking. Time. This doesn't mean he's a bad lay, oh no. But there's always ten minutes of confused bumbling before he hits his stride and remembers oh yeah, I DO know how to fuck good.

Absolutely silent during sex. Focused. Intense. Sometimes you have to push him a little to make any kind of noise at all, just so you know you're pleasing him (oh don't worry, you are).

His cock is Just Right. Not to big or too small. Perfectly proportioned and symmetrical. Somehow pretty. Like a fucking factory prototype. It truly is not fair.

Gets handsy and restless at night, even if you both have work the next day. Seems to crave sex at three in the morning. You've given him more than one exhausted handjob.

Gets offended if you don't cum. Will go down on you for hours. Of course he uses his quirk to tease you. He doesn't typically use it during actual intercourse, but he's all about foreplay, and he'll use every tool in his arsenal.

His sex drive is completely fucking unpredictable. Sometimes he's all over you, other times he's an icy slab. His line of work leaves him busy and stressed on a near-constant basis, so you can't entirely blame his personality for this one. Just give him some time and help him take care of his basic needs. He'll come back around soon enough.

[growup-gloup]

Hi Marya! Thank u 4 continuing to stick around & provide content, food for thoughts, and replies on here. May I please ask you 2 questions if you have the time, energy, & can (they are 2 different questions but they've been on my mind heavily since I decided to really take control of my life/goals): (1) What are your personal boundaries, generally speaking, when it comes to people (anyone) (2) Do you understand the homeownership process? Could you PLEASE break it down like I'm five? SO confused

Thank you for the kind words, love!

Establishing and maintaining my personal boundaries is a work in progress. Some of us get taught how to say no and stand by it at an early age. I wasn't one of those people. So, as an adult, I'm still figuring out what I'm okay with as opposed to what I've been pressured into being okay with, and how to put a stop to that.

I'm working on putting myself first and recognizing when something isn't for me, whether it's actually bad for me, or whether I just don't want it. I'm learning how to say no as a complete sentence instead of using excuses. And I'm also learning to stand by my "no".

A lot of times, people won't understand your right away. They might ask why, they might look for faults in your excuses, or they might outright try to convince you that it's not that big of a deal.

Maybe it's not that big of a deal, but my answer is still no. Reluctantly agreeing just to shut the other person up has already caused too many problems for me. I deserve better.

The hardest part of maintaining boundaries is learning that sometimes, some people are just bad for you. They might keep pushing or outright violating your boundaries. If you're lucky, you can just block and ghost that person. But sometimes, those people are our family members or colleagues, and it's not easy. That's when you learn to stand up and be firm consistently.

I haven't actually owned a home before, and every country, or even state, that I've been to has its own rules and regulations. I suggest booking an appointment with a realtor in the area you are interested in getting a house at. They will explain every step of the process, as well as some things to keep in mind for that specific area.

One thing I will say, though, is that buying a home is a huge commitment, not just financially, but timewise as well. If you're interested in a home, make sure you'll be interested in it 5-10 years from now, or however long your mortgage will be. Yes, you can sell your house at any time, but the real estate market is always fluctuating, and selling a home can be even harder than buying one.

Keep in mind things like:

Your future plans as well as the future plans of those who will live in that house with you. If you're planning on having kids soon, think of the nearby school zones and other facilities.

The location. Is it close to work, and other places you often frequent? Do you feel safe here? Can you see yourself interacting with the neighbors?

What about groceries? Gas? Traffic?

The house layout. Does it fit your and your family's needs? Will everyone have enough space to live comfortably for years to come? What if you decide to expand your family?

There are so many other things to keep in mind when buying a home, but that's where the real estate agent will come in. They will help you consider all your needs.

💋

[babyboyblasty]

CHAPTER 10:

"You look nice, Deku" Uraraka smiled, her hands held behind her back as she rocked back and forth on the balls of her feet in a childish manner, looking at her green haired friend. "Is there anyone in particular you're trying to impress?" she gave him a knowing look that Izuku stuttered and blushed to.

"No! O-of course not" he immediately denied and averted his eyes when that only seemed to make Uraraka's smirk widen. Izuku knew he was a terrible liar and Uraraka could be very scary sometimes. "But um, hypothetically speaking.. if I /were/ trying to impress someone- which I'm not- but hypothetically speaking do you think they'll.. you know. Be impressed? Hypothetically."

Uraraka looked her friend up and down. Izuku's fashion sense has definitely improved since the beginning of their first year. Both Tsuyu and herself had made sure to teach Deku and Todoroki a thing or two about dressing themselves since they were completely clueless sometimes. Midoriya was wearing brown, cuffed corduroy pants with a forest green oversized short sleeve button up, a lighter green long sleeve underneath that to create layers. The red shoes were never going away though and Uraraka gave up in trying to get him to wear another pair of shoes. He looked good and Uraraka noticed how his hair was a bit neater too so he obviously put a bit of extra effort into trying to style his curls. In fact, looking around the common room it seemed that Deku wasn't the only one who put a little extra effort into their appearance today. Half the boys there looked like they were going off to a party instead of a casual class outing. Even Iida looked like he was trying out a new hairstyle. No glasses either.

"Umm, Uraraka-san?" Izuku waved his hand in front of the girl's face to get her attention. She zoned out for a bit there and she blinked, turning to face him again.

"Oh, right! Well, /hypothetically speaking/ right?" she smiled and he nodded, "I think they'll be very impressed." Deku beamed and her eyes shifted to Todoroki who was just arriving downstairs. "Oh, look! There's Todoroki-kun. Let's go talk" she grabbed Deku's hand in hers and took him with her. He looked very good! Todoroki's aesthetic was more of a simplistic/classy style with neutral colors. This time he decided to switch it up and was wearing a white t-shirt with an unbuttoned, loose fitting pale blue and white striped dress shirt over that. He had black jeans and white sneakers too. He looked very good. "Oooo~ is there anyone /you're/ trying to impress, Todoroki-kun?" Ochako teased.

"Yes."

Ochako didn't expect such a direct answer but giggled anyway at her blunt friend. Deku on the other hand didn't find it as funny.

"Is Bakugou here yet?" Shoto changed the subject and looked around the common room but didn't spot the explosion quirk user anywhere. He felt a little disappointed.

"No, Kacchan isn't here. Neither is Kirishima-kun" Izuku really tried to keep the bitterness out of his tone. He knew that they were best friends but did they really have to be glued at the hip 24/7? Deku doesn't like the way he starts to feel when he thinks of those two together but he can't help it.

"Oh" Shoto mumbled. There was an awkward silence where no one said anything for a few seconds until Uraraka couldn't stand it and broke it.

"So how are you feeling, Todoroki-kun? Are you still tired or are you feeling a bit better from earlier?" Ochako questioned. That got Izuku's attention and he turned to Todoroki with a curious expression. Was he sick? Todoroki didn't mention anything to him today. He wondered why he didn't tell him.

"I feel better, thank you. I'm excited to be going out with my friends" he smiled briefly and Izuku returned it. After that things started to go back to normal as they talked about what stores they wanted to go to and if they had anything in particular they wanted to buy. The common room was filled with brief conversation before the 'ding' of the elevator was heard and everyone turned to look at a nervous Kirishima standing on the far opposite side of a bored looking Bakugou. Izuku felt a knot form in his throat and Todoroki felt his heart skip a beat, their faces heating up a little at what girl Kacchan was wearing. He looked good. Hell, even if he was in his normal body and wore that he'd look good.

"You're here!" Mina rushed forward to hug her two friends in a crushing hug which Kirishima gladly returned. The girls may or may not be feeling smug at how everyone reacted to seeing Bakugou. Yeah, they did that.

"I said I would go with you extras, didn't I? Now let go, pinky" Bakugou groaned. She smiled wide before stepping back.

"This'll be so much fun!" Mina jumped up and down.

"Everyone please form a single file line for attendance! As class president I must make sure everyone is accounted for before we vacate school grounds" Iida made sure to grab everyone's attention by speaking loud and clear as well as waving his arms about. Where he pulled the clipboard from no one knows but Iida started to check off names in the class roster to submit to Aizawa sensei once they come back in a few hours. "Alright. Everyone is here. We can go now" he nodded in confirmation.

The class had to take the bus to go to the mall so Iida stayed by the door until everyone was inside before going in himself. Bakugou was planning to sit with Kirishima but the redhead as soon as he was in the bus went and sat beside Sero instead. Katsuki was confused since they always sit together and even Sero was looking between the pair in confusion. "You don't mind, right Bakubro?" Kirishima awkwardly scratched the back of his neck. Bakugou just shrugged and moved on to find an empty seat to which Kirishima let out a breath he didn't even know he was holding.

"What was that?" Sero questioned once Bakugou was out of earshot.

"What was what?" Kirishima turned to him.

"That. You always sit with Bakugou so why all of a sudden did you decide to sit next to me? I don't mind but I was a little caught off guard, man. You know, you've been acting weird ever since the night we played games in my room. Is everything cool?" Sero had an idea of what was happening but he wanted to hear it from Kiri himself.

"Yeah, everything's good. I just need to sort some things out for myself first" he explained and Sero nodded, leaving it at that. Kirishima appreciated that about Sero. He knew if it was Mina or Kaminari they wouldn't stop pestering him about it. Kirishima just wanted some time to hopefully figure out why he was all of a sudden feeling so weird around Katsuki.

On the other end of the bus, towards the back, Bakugou found an empty seat. Everyone else seemed to be already sitting with someone else but he didn't really mind it. Once seated, Bakugou put his elbow up on the edge of the window and looked outside. He felt someone slightly tap his shoulder though and looked up to a shy Koda. 'May I sit here?' he signed and Bakugou raised an eyebrow. He rolled his eyes and signed back 'go for it' and Koda smiled a little, quickly sitting down beside Bakugou. Aizawa did mention that because of his quirk, he may experience hearing loss in the future if he didn't take the proper precautions so Bakugou has been taking JSL classes from Koda since the beginning of their second year and developed a somewhat mutual understanding with the guy. He really wasn't all that bad, just a little quiet. And while they weren't friends friends, Bakugou knew that if he ever needed a quiet place to study or just hang out for a bit without talking, he could go to Koda's room. The same went for Bakugou. If Koda ever wanted to spar or wanted pointers to help in improving his fighting skills, Bakugou is available.

Now that everyone had a seat, the bus began to move. The ride was going to take approximately fifteen to twenty minutes so he just wanted to use the break to relax. Bakugou could tell Koda wanted to say something based on the way he would look at him every few minutes but then look away though. "What is it?" he finally asked a little less than halfway into the trip and Koda shook his head. "I know you want to say something, now what is it?"

Koda looked hesitant at first but then signed 'how are you feeling?' with a sincere look. Maybe if it was someone else Bakugou would have told them off for getting into his business but Koda was someone who earned his respect and admiration throughout their time together in UA and who he saw as an equal.

"Why do you ask?" he asked instead, a bit defensive, and Koda responded by signing 'this is a big change and I was just wondering how you were doing.' Bakugou shrugged. "It isn't something I can't handle. Besides, today is the last day of the quirk so I should be back to normal by tomorrow morning" Bakugou mumbled, adding in a "thanks" as an afterthought. Honestly speaking, Koda has been the only one who's asked him how he felt about this whole quirk situation. The rest of his classmates all just seemed to be having fun with it and while he didn't mind, it was nice to be asked.

'You're always welcome to come hang out with me and my bunny if you ever need quiet time,' Koda offered. 'He told me he misses the angry blonde boy with the warm hands" he joked. Bakugou smirked a little with a "tch, sure whatever. Tell 'im I miss the furball too" leaving his lips. After that Bakugou and Koda fell into a comfortable silence where Bakugou closed his eyes to rest for the few minutes they had left on the bus ride.

Everyone else in class 3-A never thought they'd see the day where they all wished they were in Koda's place. The anivoice boy was sitting perfectly still so as to not wake the pretty blonde that had leaned his head on the other's shoulder sometime along the trip and was now sleeping peacefully on him.

[word count: 1775]

( this fan art isn't in correlation with the story chapter but oH MY GOD LOOK HOW PRETTY GIRL BAKUGOU IS- 😩)

[stanzoeywade]

Dating poly Jackie and Aurora

A/N: before yall come at me, these faceclaim are just what I think looks like their characters okay? You don't have to agree with me, anygays, the lovely Jourdan Dunn is my face claim for Aurora, and as for Jackie, the beautiful Lais Ribeiro.

Taglist: @somewillwin @uhh-the-green-thing @jmojellybae @simp-pony @made-me-deep-blue @uselesslesbianfr @it-lives-in-braidwood-manor @belvoiresqueenbee @alexlabhont @samanthadalton @crazzyplays @sparring-hyena @baexpoppy @cloakanddaggerthings @fujinstorm

●      Coming from a medical school in the UK, you moved to America in order to do your internship in Edenbrook hospital. This is due to the fact that Harper Emery was one of the doctors there, and what better way to learn medicine but under the best of the best.

●      To your disappointment, it seems that all residents were not going to be taught by Dr Emery herself but two of the senior doctors, who have introduced themselves as Dr Baz and Dr Ines.

●      Your very first day was interesting to say the least, as you were about to make your way to the hall for orientation, a patient collapses on the floor, and you spring into action ensuring that the person was alright. It was stressful, but you realise that it's one the things that you will have to deal with as a doctor.

●      If anyone said that on your first day as a licensed doctor that you would have to intubate a woman, you would have laughed but that's precisely what occurred on your first day.

●      It didn't help that on your very first day that the first thing you saw was Jackie in her underwear, considering you were on your way to change to scrubs, ready to start the day. You would be lying if you said that you didn't enjoy the view considering she didn't seem fazed at all that you were staring for a few seconds too long. The smirk she sent your way certainly didn't help either, causing your cheeks and ears to go a bright shade of crimson.

●      This is when you learn that Jackie is from the same department as you. Both of you being interns for Internal medicine.

●      Deciding that being shy and bashful will be no use considering the changing rooms are for all interns, you decide to change into something more suitable, fully aware that someone's eyes were on you.

●      Jackie's eyes trail over your body, and as far as she can tell, she has no qualms about seeing you getting changed. "You gonna take all day?" she says whilst you retort "The way you're looking at me, it seems that you want me to." This earns a smile from Jackie. "Well played."

●      All of the cohorts are welcomed to Edenbrooke by Dr. Harper Emery, the very doctor that you strive to be, and you cannot help but feel giddy and excited about your time at Edenbrooke.

●      Meeting the other interns was interesting. There was Sienna Trinh, a sweet and friendly girl, as well as Elijah Greene who was all smiles, excitement visible on his face. There was also Bryce Lahela, who seems calmer than the other two, but also very friendly.

●      However, there were two people who particularly caught your attention, one Jackie Varma, as well as one Aurora Emery. They were both the most beautiful thing you have ever seen. Gorgeous even, Jackie had an air of confidence and pride, whilst Aurora gave off an air of mystery and sophistication to her.

●      The very first person that you were partnered with was Aurora, and first impressions were quite unfortunate, both of you seemed to want nothing to do with each other. Especially since the other girl seemed so hostile when introducing herself. Understanding the difficulty of how strict her upbringing must have been you sympathise with her. "Growing up must have been difficult."

●      To which Aurora seems shocked that you said it, however the surprise is quickly masked. "Let's skip the pleasantries and check on our patients." You're left confused as you mumble "Those were pleasantries?" You give a quick nod of goodbye to Jackie as you follow Aurora to your first patient.

●      "Shouldn't we discuss our course of action for our first patient?" Your words seem to fall on deaf ears as she continues to walk ahead of you. "Look Aurora, I understand that you don't like me, but we need to at least be civil and discuss what we need to do. I refuse to have lack of communication be our downfall as partners." Aurora just turns around and soon as she faces you she rolls her eyes. "We don't need to discuss anything, you do your job and I'll do mine."

●      You couldn't help the frustrated groan that escapes your lips, as you power through and go to meet your first patient. It's safe to say that you and Aurora are definitely not besties, but even so there's always those weird stares, something akin to longing and sometimes you think you see a hint of apology in Aurora's eyes.

●      Meanwhile your relationship will Jackie is the opposite, you two get along. So quickly in fact you would've thought you've known each other for ages. Things start to progress, especially since you move into a share house along with Sienna, Elijah, Jackie and Laundry - ehem - sorry not sorry, Landry.

●      The two of you grow closer, as nights out become a group thing, and all of you love together, after all safety in numbers, but there are times where you and Jackie spend time together, but you're not exactly sure considering she's friendly to everyone. (Oh, honey)

●      Aurora, as much as she loathes to even think about it, she does respect you. Your unwavering determination to learn more, as well a fight for your patients is something she strives to achieve. She won't tell anyone but she genuinely does think you're good at your job and you're not exactly bad looking? This train of thought is deleted from her memory as soon as it enters her mind.

●      It doesn't help that you don't seem to hate her even though she doesn't exactly act civil towards you or anything, so imagine her surprise when you walk in on her upset and instead of mocking or laughing at her, you do that thing where you try and comfort her.

●      Due to your awkwardness, you try to crack a joke and Aurora is taken aback, so much so she ends up giggling. "What do you call bread with honours? An honour roll." Aurora just quirks her eyebrows at you as she giggles. "You're an idiot, but that made me laugh so, thanks I guess."

●      This is when she knows that she's crushing on you, and so the longing stares begin. She's more civil and the two of you actually start to get along, and you drag her to the nights out with the group.

●      Despite your obliviousness, Jackie tries so hard to flirt with you, so that her intentions are clear, but since you're so dense, she just cracks one day. "Goddamnit, I like you, you fucking idiot." You're just standing there confused. "Wait, you were flirting with me?" Jackie just rolls her eyes at you. "I have been for the past few months, thanks for noticing."

●      Jackie is the first to ask you out, and Aurora is disappointed when she sees the two of you go out. She knows that she should have tried harder to pursue you but damn, does it hurt.

●      Everything changes though when you admit that you have feelings for both of them, and you expected to get laughed at but to your surprise you're met with a kiss from both women.

●      You're left a stuttering and blushing mess as you try to process what happened, and the other two just share a laugh, because damn, you're an idiot but you're their idiot.

●      Dating both of them is like yin and yang. Jackie is definitely the one that gets you and Aurora to get out of your comfort zone and try something new which both of you are always appreciative of.

●      Aurora is the one that calms both of you down when things get too rough or too tiring, she's there to keep both of you grounded. Also a mediator when you and Jackie clash more often than not.

●      Whilst you're just there like, "damn am I lucky or what?" In which the other two just tell their eyes at you. They pretend they hate it but they genuinely adore it when you compliment them both, you're there for Aurora whenever she doubts herself and you're also there for Jackie when she thinks that she is not doing enough.

●      Aurora is definitely in the middle when you cuddle, there's just something about her that makes you and Jackie so soft, you're both whipped and you can't even complain since Aurora is perfection, which she vehemently denies but you and Jackie are quick to tell her and remind her.

●      Jackie is definitely a blanket hog, and you and Aurora are left cold because god dammit Jackie stop taking all the blankets. In which it is decided that if Jackie can't share a blanket you all get one each, unless you know it's one of those nights. (Wink wonk)

●      When it is revealed that Laundry the rat was the one that tried to end your career the two are quick to jump in your defense and they don't hesitate to rip him a new one. "Damn Landry, I didn't think you would stoop that low but what did I expect once a rat always a rat." It's also one of the only times you ever see Aurora get genuinely angry, and not going to lie, she looks hot.

●      When things get too rough because Ethane says something to upset one of you, the other two quickly reassures the other that they're doing their best and that Ramsey is just being a prick.

●      There's an inside joke between the three of you in regards to Ramsey, let's just say that none of you can look at Dr. Ramsey's neck for a prolonged amount of time without laughing.

●      Being with these two is so much fun but it also feels like home. Before you know it, you're in love with them, it's not like it's a big secret considering you can't help but feel that way since they're a constant presence in your life and you can't imagine life without them.

●      You're the first to say "I love you." It's nothing dramatic, it just happens naturally and slips out. The other two are quick to respond.

●      It's domestic af, but Aurora cannot cook to save her life so you and Jackie make sure she's nowhere near the kitchen.

●      Even if Jackie vehemently denies that she likes rom-coms, you know better than to believe her because you've seen cry one too many times when watching 'The Notebook' meanwhile Aurora is a big fan of psychological thrillers and horror and you're always left clinging to one of them when it gets too scary.

●      Aurora doesn't have the heart to wake you and Jackie up on some days and she'll never say it but she does let you sleep in a little bit longer. She always wakes up early, even when you have a day off.

●      It's rare but when Jackie wakes up earlier than both of you, she actually prepares breakfast with Sienna's help, who can't help but teass Jackie for being whipped.

●      All in all you can't help but think that you're the luckiest person for dating the two of them. Bryce always teases you. "You're really lucky, how did you even manage that?" You just shoot Bryce a dopey smile. "Just because I'm dating them doesn't mean I know how." He just laughs and let's you stare at Jackie and Aurora in peace.

 

NSFW Headcanons

●      Jackie is a top, and even when she's bottoming she's going to be a power bottom, she's gonna be the one in control. Aurora is the opposite, she's a bottom, and she's so fucking hot that other bottoms would probably want to top her.

●      Jackie definitely leaves hickeys on both of you, sometimes in places where it can be seen, such as the neck, but she's also prone to leaving marks on either of your thighs.

●      Aurora is quite shy and reserved and the first time sex happens, she admits that she's never slept with anyone. In which you and Jackie make sure that she enjoys her first time. The attention is definitely focused on her, and although she's quite shy about making noise, you and Jackie quickly tell her that you want to hear her.

●      This makes Aurora skin flush. You and Jackie swear that neither of you have seen anything as beautiful as Aurora in this moment.

●      Your favourite time is definitely when Aurora sits on your face as Jackie uses a strap on you, the other two definitely agree.

●      If Jackie has a shift and it's only you and Aurora, sex is soft, and slow as you both take your time enjoying each other. You usually take the lead but there's times where Aurora does get jealous of Dr. Ramsey and the way he stares at you in which she makes sure to kiss every inch of your body. Who knew sweet, sweet Aurora gets frisky when she's jelly.

●      Sex with Jackie is passionate and intense, where Aurora likes it slow and steady Jackie likes it fast and rough. Her hands are all over you, touching every part of your body, anywhere she can reach, she leaves a trail of hickeys in her wake, not really caring where as she's only focused on you.

●      When Jackie and Aurora sleep together, it's a mixture of slow and steady as well as fas and rough, it all depends on how their day went, but Jackie's definitely cheeky enough to try and fluster you by sending some risque messages or snaps. Jackie definitely adores hearing Aurora because she just sounds so hot.

●      Jackie isn't the type to get jealous but she doesn't really like it when anyone other than her or Aurora stare at you for a prolonged amount of time, in which she doesn't care who sees as she kisses you in front of everyone, same goes for anyone flirting with Aurora.

●      The three of you are definitely not against trying new things out, and it's always fun to discover new things.

●      Jackie is the type to try and fluster Aurora by sending nudes, and sometimes you can't help it so you play along, and Aurora always comes home bothered and needy, honestly she's super cute and hot at the same time so no complaints.

●      However if both of you try the same with Jackie, once she arrives she's going to be frustrated and it has led to either yours or Aurora's underwear being ruined and you have half a mind to tell her off. "Stop ruining our underwear, or else no more nudes for you." Jackie just rolls her eyes as Aurora laughs and nods her head in agreement.

●      All in all sex with these two is always something that you live for, considering it's always mind-blowing.

A/N: I hope this did Aurora and Jackie justice. I hope you all enjoy. Please send requests lmao. I promise I will do it as soon as I can lmao.

[crystalwillow]

Hang The Job

Pairing: Bryce Lahela x Casey Valentine

Word Count: 2.7K

Warning: Content includes the sexual harassment (in the workplace). If this makes you uncomfortable please skip over these parts (I will put then in purple), or click off of this writing/keep scrolling and I will be back with something lighter and friendly to everyone soon 😊❤

Tagging: @eleanorbloom @brycelahelalover @sophxwithers @princesslahela @queenofboops

Summary: What if Bryce was Casey's mentor instead of Ethan? Would she face the same struggles in getting him to go public with their relationship? Or would he happily come out with it when the bullying from other interns enters his O.R?

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

Excitement.

That is what’s currently buzzing between the interns that are gathered in the surgical staff room of Edenbrook Hospital in front of their attending, Dr Lahela, who is about to announce who has the lead on a very exciting (for them) surgery. They were all chattering animatedly amongst themselves. All but one that is, who stood at the back of the rabble with their energy that of nervousness. Her name is Dr Casey Valentine, a young and very promising surgeon. Dr Lahela sings her praises quite a bit. Much to the annoyance of the other interns. They’ve been there merely 3 months and he’s sung her praises more than most, but what can she do? She can’t help that she’s naturally talented and good at surgeries. She can’t help that she was top of her class in med school. She can’t even help the fact that none of the other interns seem to want to even attempt to get to know her. 

“She’s probably sleeping with him.” one intern whispered to another

“Probably, it wouldn’t surprise me. It’s probably how she passed med school.”

"Though, I can see why he'd fuck her. She's probably amazing in bed. It's a shame scrubs are baggy."

The pair laughed together blissfully unaware Casey had heard them, and blissfully unaware that their attending had as well. 

“Ahem. Attention interns!” Dr Lahela shouted from the front of the room, holding up his hand to gather everyone's attention and soon the room fell into an excitable silence. 

“This is it.” Dr Bree shrilled excitedly grabbing the hand of the intern next to her as Casey leant against the wall in silence hoping and praying she didn’t get the lead. 

She wanted it of course, but if she got it then everyone else in that room would just have one more reason to hate her, to make sure they took the good food at the cafeteria before she could get to it and have a decent lunch. As Dr Lahela started up his talk before announcing who has received the lead, Casey closed her eye as she silently hoped and prayed she hadn’t got it.

“Please don’t let me have it. Please.” she begged silently in her head. 

“...and so, the intern that has the lead on this surgery because of their skill and dedication is; Dr Casey Valentine.”

As she heard her name carry to her ears from his voice her heart sank and her stomach flipped. It should have been from joy and gratefulness for being given the opportunity, but it was of unwilling dread instead. 

“Dr Valentine?” he asked.

But she didn’t look in his direction, she avoided looking at him altogether even as she felt his gaze burst into the side of her skull. 

“Dr Valentine.” he repeated. 

“Uh… sorry. I’ve got to-” she spoke and then ran out of the door and to the nearest restroom where she closed herself in a stall with a resounding slam before sliding down the door shuddering as silent tears escaped her. 

Confused, Dr Lahela dismissed the rest of the interns before turning to seek out Dr Harper Emery. As they neared the restrooms, they slowed their pace. 

“And what exactly happened?” Harper asks.

“I… I’m not sure. I gave her the news, she was zoned out but then came back to reality, freaked out and ran away.” Bryce explains. 

Harper nods with a small hum before pushing the door open, stopping at the threshold. “Get back to work Dr Lahela. I’ll see to things here.” she says over her shoulder before disappearing into the restrooms.

It wasn’t difficult to identify which stall Casey had closed herself in as there was only one door that was closed and Casey watched as Harper came to a stop in front of it. 

“Dr Valentine?” she asked with a hesitant knock.

“There’s other stalls.” Casey called out.

“That’s not why I’m saying your name. Can you open the door please.”

“N-no.”  

“Dr Valentine, I’m going to need you to open this door.”

“I don’t want to.”

“I understand that, but as the only woman that will check up on you because I’m not being petty over your abilities shining through more than mine, I don’t think you have much of a choice. The longer you keep us both from our work the more severe the amount of trouble we get into will be.”

Casey sat and thought over Harper’s words for a moment before leaning forwards with a sigh to unlock the door. Cautiously, Harper pushed it open and frowned sympathetically as she saw Casey with her head to her knees. 

“Casey…” she sighed with the warm affectionate tone of a mother as she crouched in front of her. “Why are you hiding out in here? What’s the matter?” 

“Nothing.”

“People don’t get announced as the lead on a massive surgery and run off as upset as you have. Something’s clearly going on here. Tell me.”

Casey looks at Harper for a brief moment before tucking her head back to her knees as more silent tears leave her eyes. 

“What about if we go to my office. Will you talk to me there?”

Casey looks up at her again and after a moment gives a subtle nod and Harper outstretches a hand to pull her up. Five minutes later, Casey is sat in a chair positioned  in Harper’s office around a small round coffee table. Harper crosses the room with 2 mugs of coffee and sits in the chair next to Casey’s.

“Come on, tell your Aunt Harper all about it. Why are you so upset about getting this lead?”

“Because I didn’t want it.” Casey responds numbly in a quiet voice.

“Why not? You’re a brilliantly talented surgeon. You have the skill set and determination to carry this through, I don’t understand why you wouldn’t want it.”

“Because I’m sick of not having any surgical friends and hearing whispers about how I must be sleeping with Dr Lahela to earn my praise, and it must be the only thing I know how to do. The other interns have bets on how many professors I’ve slept with to get a good grade throughout my life. And they even have bets on who can get me to open my legs to them first.”

As Casey stops to blow her nose Harper sits there with her mouth hung in shock at the things she is hearing. 

“So no,” Casey continues, “I didn’t want the lead. But not because I didn’t want to not get it, because I want the bets, jeering, taunting, just everything I have to endure from every other intern. I want it to stop but all Dr Lahela can say to me is how I should just ignore them, it will stop then; he had the same problem. But it’s not the same, because he's a guy and I’m a woman and he will never understand how disgusting I feel with those things going on even though everything they’re saying is untrue.”

A silence hung in the air after Casey finished spilling her emotions on the table and sagged with a shaking sob, Harper clenched her jaw. 

“Excuse me a moment.” Harper stated as she rose to her feet. Casey gave a nod and Harper left the room in search for Bryce. 

When Harper finally found Bryce 10 minutes later, he was in the break room with another surgeon. Harper greeted them with a smile as they passed by with their to-go cup of coffee and stopped next to Bryce as he stood in front of the coffee machine to make his own drink.

"Dr Em-" 

"What are you playing at?" Harper said her annoyance clear.

"What do mean? I'm making-"

"Not that." she all but hissed. "Giving Dr Valentine that lead despite knowing what's going on with her and the other interns." 

"Hey. Calm down, she won the lead based skill and merit."

"You and I may know that but those other interns do not. Do you have any idea what Casey is going through? What they say about her!?" 

"Of course I do. She's told me but she just has to igno-"

"Ignoring doesn't make the bets go away Dr Lahela!" Harper seethes deeply as she slams her palm on the side.

"Wh-what bets?" Bryce asks.

"Oh you don't know about those? The bets the others have on who can get her to open her legs to them first. Or the taunting of them saying sleeping with people to get to the top is all she knows? They're practically calling her a slut Dr Lahela and you're doing nothing to help it!" 

Bryce flinches as Harper gets angrier by the second. 

"She is up there in my office bawling her eyes out because of it and the fact you're just making it worse. So you either get a hold of those interns or you stop, in their eyes; mean every other intern, favouring Casey. Because I do not want to see an amazing, brilliant and bright doctor walk from their job because of workplace misconduct. Have I made that clear!?" 

"Y-yes, Dr Emery." Bryce stutters.

"Good." She retorts then spins on her heel leaving the room, heading back to the office.

When she arrives back Casey has disappeared and Harper looks around with a frown before her eyes land upon a note on her desk. 

‘Gone back to work. Dr Valentine’

With a weary sigh Harper crumples the note and tosses it into the trash beside her desk before reclaiming her seat and refocusing on her work. 

Many hours later after a grueling shift, Casey emerged from the staff dressing rooms to find Bryce waiting outside. 

“Dr Lahela!” she exclaims with a start, placing a hand over her heart. 

“Sorry.” he smiles apologetically. “I didn’t mean to startle you.”

“I-it’s fine. Did… you need something? I was just about to head out for the night.” Casey responds.

“I did. Would you mind coming with me?”

“Oh! O-of course.” 

Casey shoulders her bag and follows Bryce through a series of corridors before coming to a large meeting room where a majority of the other interns are waiting. One looks at the door as Casey enters timidly, keeping her head down. She takes a seat separated from everyone else at the back of the room. 

“Right.” Bryce says sternly, his gaze looking for Casey. “Dr Valentine, if you could join me up the front please.”

Swallowing harshly, Casey joins him up the front though her gaze remains on the floor. 

“Now then.” Bryce continues, addressing the room; “It has been brought to my attention today by Dr Emery that despite my many warnings to you all regarding your teasing of Dr Valentine here, you’ve decided to continue with this behaviour. Not only that, you’ve decided to take it a step further and begun to sexually harass and bully Dr Valentine. Place bets on unspeakable things and make rude remarks about her that are simply opinion and not fact!” he shouts getting angrier by the second.

A deafening silence is cast over the room for a moment as the anger behind Bryce’s words settles in. He clears his throat to break the silence as he turns to Casey. 

“Dr Valentine. How have their words made you feel?”

“I… don’t want to do this. Dr Lahela, please.” she pleads quietly shrinking away towards the wall behind her. “They’ll just laugh at me, say it’s what I deserve.”

“And you’d be right.” A bulky intern retorts upon hearing Casey’s words. “It’s all little sluts like you deserve. Opening your legs to any and every superior to get to the top of any class, leaving the rest of us at the bottom like scum.”

“Maybe that because that’s exactly what you are. Dr Rolandale” Bryce bites back angrily. 

“Excuse me?” 

“You heard me perfectly well you lowlife, fuckboy.” Bryce spits causing the other interns to gasp. “If that is how you’re going to speak to your colleagues and behave in my O.R. then you can leave.”

“What? You can’t seriously be sticking up for her!” Dr Rolandale exclaims, “Or has she promised to fuck you tonight and you need to keep her sweet?”

“Hand over your badge.” Bryce says even more angry than before as he shoves his hand out. “Your internship here is terminated. Effective immediately.”

Dr Rolandale stares at Bryce with his mouth agape as Bryce stares back at him angrily. After a brief moment Dr Rolandale removes his badge from his bag and slams it into Bryce’s hand. 

“You’re dismissed.” Bryce hisses and points to the door. “The rest of you remain seated.”

Bryce heads to the main table at the front of the room and throws the badge down then looks up to address the room. “Anyone else who wishes to maintain the same talk in my O.R. can add their badge to the pile and leave this room as well. I will not accept this behaviour from grown ass 27 and 28 year olds who know better. What Dr Valentine gets upto in her spare time is her business. What I get up to in my spare time is my business. So I will say it again, anyone who wishes to follow Dr Rolandale can place their badge in the pile and leave this hospital and my O.R.”

Another moment of silence follows his statement before 5 more doctors come forward placing their badges on the table, leaving out of the door. Bryce grips the back of a chair looking at each one of them with disgust as they step forward. 

Casey keeps her eyes downcast the entire time until Bryce speaks up again, the anger in his demeanour and voice clearly masked to the best of his ability. 

“I’m trusting that those of you who have stayed in this room do not share the same views about Dr Valentine as those who have just left.”

“No, Dr Lahela” They say in unison. 

Bryce nods as he takes in every face in the room. “I never want to hear of this in my O.R. ever again. Is that understood?”

They all nod in understanding, the shame on their face due to their actions evident as Casey looks up briefly.

“I suggest you go home and have a long hard think about what stress and turmoil you have put Dr Valentine through for the duration that this has been going on. Everything she has ever done, everything she had ever “won” has been through pure determination, skill, and dedication to her job. Opportunities she has been given, you would have had too had you been more focused on the reason you are actually here instead of being complicit participants in workplace harassment. This meeting is the last verbal warning I am giving you. Anymore and you will start to lose your jobs.”

“Yes, Dr Lahela.” They respond again in unison.

Bryce nods satisfied. “You are dismissed. But Dr Valentine, I would like you to stay please. We need to talk.”

Casey stands quietly beside the wall as the remaining of her fellow interns file out of the room, heading home for the evening. Once they are gone, Bryce drops into a seat with a thud and points to the one opposite him. She timidly takes the seat though her gaze remains downcast as she focuses on fiddling with her keychain. 

“Hey.” Bryce coos softly, reaching out to her as his anger towards the other interns dissipates “Look at me.”

After a few moments, Casey sniffles and looks up reluctantly to meet his brown orbs with her swollen, red, and puffy forest greens. She gives him a sad smile accompanied by a shrug. “Thanks” she says, but when she speaks her voice is hoarse and broken. 

“You don’t need to thank me. I’m your attending, addressing issues like this is also what I’m here for.” he smiles softly. “We may be dating outside of work, and yes it’s… unethical, but as humans we can’t help who we’re attracted to. I don’t know what work will bring for us from now on. But I do know one thing… I have feelings for you Casey Valentine and I’d be damned if I let some work ethics get in the way of us discovering who we could be. Together.”

Casey smiles softly as he takes her hand in his and gives a gentle squeeze. 

“How are you single for such a beautiful man?” Casey smiles, her voice remaining quiet.

“I just… haven’t found my person. Well… I may have with you. But… who knows? Only time will tell.”

Casey smiles and thanks Bryce a few more times before they leave the room. They embrace each other as Casey relays her thanks once more with a sniffle before turning away from him and heading home for the night. 

[spencers-dria]

The First of Many

Someone To Stay Ch. 10

Spencer Reid x fem reader

Content Warnings: *Mentions of alcohol/drinking

Y/N POV:

You roll over in bed to glance at your phone to see it's 11 AM. It feels nice to sleep in with no alarm. After putting on your glasses and slippers and finally dragging yourself out of bed, you stroll into the kitchen and pour a bowl of fruity pebbles. You put a music playlist on the TV to play in the background.

It has been almost a week since your talk with Spencer. As much as it hurt you to see him broken in that way, you felt honored that he trusts you enough to share that part of his life with you. Talking about trauma is never easy. You should know.

You think over some of the things you said to him. Spencer's entire job involves profiling people and reading every tone, every bit of body language. You are sure that he most likely noticed changes in you as you spoke about coping with trauma, but you're grateful he hadn't felt the need to prod you with questions. He had become your best friend here, but you aren't sure you're quite ready to bare the darkest parts of your soul to him.

Suddenly you hear a knock at your door, not caring if a neighbor or maintenance worker sees you in your pajamas, you stroll towards the door and swing it open. You rub your eyes under your glasses to make sure you're seeing correctly. Spencer is standing in your doorway, a sheepish smile on his face.

"Y/N I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to wake you up! I just assumed since it was 11..."

You wave, brushing off his comments. "Its fine, really. I actually wasn't asleep. I was eating a late breakfast though." You suddenly become very self-conscious, and its not just because you're in your pajamas. Spencer had seen you that way on the trip. You realize as you stand in your doorway that you're wearing a tank and tight fitting PJ shorts and your bear paw slippers. Your hair is a giant mess. You have no makeup on, which you usually relied on to conceal your less than perfect skin. You never really outgrew acne, even in your twenties. You were also in your glasses. Basically, you felt like a hot mess, somewhat like Princess Anna waking up on coronation day. Even though your movie nights had been casual, you always tried to be at least somewhat put together without looking like you tried too hard.

"Umm come in" You step aside as you cross your arms over your chest, your gaze staying on your feet.

"Sorry you had to see me like this. I thought maybe it was just apartment maintenance. I can go change real quick..."

A look of genuine confusion spreads across his features. "I don't understand.  See you like what?"

You gesture to your entire body. "Like...this! I'm a complete mess, Spence." You try to keep your face down to conceal the redness growing on your cheeks.

Spencer shakes his head before letting out a small chuckle. You glance up, confused as to what about this he could possibly find funny. He better not be laughing at you, seeing as you are embarrassed enough as it is.

He shakes his head, smiling. "Silly girl."

Spencer reaches down and brushes a piece of hair behind your ear. "You always look pretty."

The voice of Mama Cass singing Dream a Little Dream of Me fills the air between the two of you. There's so much tension and you don't know where it came from. Usually you're really comfortable with Spencer. But you definitely feel butterflies in your stomach as the two of you lock eyes.

You definitely can't hide the blush heating up your face now. It seems like he is just now processing what he's said and done because his eyes widen as you see his face turn red as well. He lets out a cough, breaking eye contact and staring down at his shoes as he begins to fiddle with his hands. Your gaze lingers on his hands for just a moment before you turn on your heel and head back towards the kitchen table to finish your cereal.

Spencer follows you, hesitantly, leaning against the kitchen counter. There are a few moments of silence before he finally says "I was at a coffee shop just one block over. I had something to ask you so I thought I'd just stop by."

"Like I said before, you are always welcome Spencer. So what is your question?"

"It's probably stupid. You are more than welcome to say no. I probably would if I were you."

You laugh and roll your eyes. "Wow you're really selling me on this, keep going."

"Well... the team they uh, well sometimes they go out for drinks. If I don't go along they never let me hear the end of it. I usually end up sitting b-by myself while they all head to the dance floor. I j-just thought...I thought maybe you might..."

Spencer looks up, surprised to see you smiling and nodding enthusiastically.

"I'd love to. It's been a couple weeks since I've seen everyone. And honestly I could use a few drinks myself."

A toothy grin slowly grows on his face as he bites down on his bottom lip. He does this all the time but for some reason, today, you find your eyes staring at his lips a little too long after he's done this. Wow, he has really nice lips. Like reallyyy nice lips. How had you never noticed? I wonder if he's ever kissed anyone. He's in his thirties, surely he has. But he hasn't really spoken about past relationships. Then again neither had you.

You accidentally held your gaze on him while completely losing yourself in this train of thought. You are brought back to the present by Spencer calling your name. Your eyes quickly dart up to meet his as you realize just how far down the rabbit hole you had allowed your mind to go. You shake your head quickly, pushing these thoughts far away. It's hard enough to find a really great friend who will stick around that you can trust. You had no intention of screwing that up any time soon.

"Sorry! I'm really tired. I guess I just kind of zoned out there for a second." You quickly explain before returning to eating your bowl of cereal.

"Well I guess I should get going...I'll see you tonight?" Spencer starts to head toward the door.

"Wait! Why are you leaving?"

"Oh well I just though, well...I don't know. Are you saying you want to hang out?"

"You're my best friend here Spencer, of course I want to hang out!"

Before long the two of you had the Goblet of Fire ready to go on the TV with an array of snacks strewn across the coffee table. You noticed Spencer didn't sit on the far end of the couch this time. Instead, he sat almost on the middle. You decide to sit next to him, looking at him to make sure he's okay with it. He only gives you a smile, seemingly okay with this new arrangement.

By halfway through the movie, you had somehow ended up sharing one of your large fuzzy blankets and you had scooted close enough together that your head was on his shoulder. He hadn't said anything but you were fairly certain his breathing had changed as you'd done it.

The two of you had never been very touchy so you're not sure what had brought out this side of you today. Your thoughts start to wander again. Maybe it was the compliment he'd given you earlier. Spencer had never called you pretty, but hearing him say it gave you all kinds of nerves. You hadn't really thought about Spencer in that way. It's been years since you'd had a crush on anyone. You've forgotten what that even feels like. Surely that's not what this was. The two of you were just close. It's not like he'd ever be interested. He was a literal genius, an FBI agent, not to mention he was gorgeous. He could have any woman he wanted. Why are you even thinking about this! You don't like Spencer. Geez Y/N, get it together.

After the movie ends, you sit up and look at Spencer. "Do you need time to go home and get ready or will you be ready to leave from here?"

"Oh, I think I'm ready. I can leave and come back if you like?"

"That's silly. You can just wait here while I get ready, unless you have somewhere better to be" you jokingly raise your eyebrows and shove his shoulder. He fakes like he's been hurt, causing you to giggle. Ugh, why are you giggling? You sound like a lovesick schoolgirl.

You quickly stand up and head towards your bedroom before turning around to Spencer. "You are more than welcome to and food and drinks you find, and you can look through and find something on the TV if you'd like."

You take a quick shower and throw on a robe while you fix your hair and make up. You pull out a curling rod. You had a balayage done to your hair earlier that year, so curls really did look best, making the dark to blonde even more blended. As you look through your closet, you decide to pick an outfit that will give you a bit of a confidence boost. You pull on a spaghetti strap snug fitting maroon, velvet dress. It's a little lower cut than you usually wear, but it comes almost to your knees, keeping you from feeling like you've exposed too much skin. The back dipped fairly low, with the top half of your back covered in a piece of lace. After slipping into some strappy black sandals, you look in the mirror and admire the way it accentuates your curves. You'd been blessed with more booty than chest, so luckily you don't have to worry about showing an inappropriate amount of cleavage around Spencer's coworkers. Your legs also looked even more long and slender than usual. Yep, this was the perfect outfit.

You check your makeup in the mirror once more. Dark lipstick with smoky eye shadow and long lashes. You did this for yourself. You liked being able to feel a little bit sexy every once in awhile. You weren't dressing for anyone else. That is what you keep repeating in your head, and you will keep doing that until you believe it.

You take a deep breath to calm your nerves before stepping into the living room. Spencer is lying on the couch, reading through the book from your coffee table: Edgar Allen Poe's Complete Works. He's so entranced in the book, he doesn't notice you enter the room. Once he hears the clack of your heels across the floor he finally glances up and does a double take. Eyes wide, he opens his mouth to speak but just shuts it again. You can't help but think this was the reaction you had hoped for. Why were you dressing to impress Spencer? Maybe it's because he thought you were pretty when you were at your worst. You wondered what he would think when you put on your best. Based on the growing redness spreading from his face and down his neck, it's fair to say he liked what he saw. You could have sworn you hear him whisper a "wow" under his breath.

"I feel like I'm underdressed now." He finally speaks up.

"You look fine Spencer!"

"Fine? Fine can't compare with...with this!" He gestures to all of you.

You decide to play dumb. "I don't know what you're talking about. I just threw on a dress I thought would fit in with the atmosphere" You shrug. You want to tell him he looks more than fine. That he always looks fantastic, but you decide to keep this to yourself.

"There's nothing wrong with the way you're dressed, but if it bothers you that much I can help." You step forward and look him up and down, trying to figure out the best way to do this.

"You clearly know what you're doing," he laughs. "Go ahead."

"Ok first take off the sweater vest."

Spencer removes his black velvet-like blazer in order to remove a grey, patterned sweater vest. He's left in a dark purple button down with a matching tie, black slacks, and dress shoes.

You step closer and reach out to touch his tie, hesitating for a moment.

"May I?"

He nods for you to go ahead. You remove the tie and undo the top two buttons on his shirt. You then grab his blazer and help him to slip back into it. Lastly, you move your hand up to ruffle his hair a bit. You step back to take in the whole look.

"Well?" he asks.

You roll your tongue to the side of your mouth, biting on it as you try, very poorly, to hold back a smirk. You're impressed with your finished result.

He looks...hot. NO! Stop...nope. We're not going there. He's your best friend. That's all.

He must have noticed the way you've been eyeing him and the look on your face, because he is slowly turning a deep shade of red.

"See for yourself" you say as you lead him over toward a mirror.

After looking over his new appearance, he smiles. You can tell he feels confident like this. Confident Spencer is something you wish you saw more of. You're glad you could help him to see that he can be attractive. You wish he knew that he always has been.

"Come on pretty boy" you say, imitating Derek as you lead the two of you downstairs.

Luckily the bar is well within walking distance from your apartment. When you open the door to step outside the cool night air hits your skin, causing you to shiver a bit. You immediately feel a soft warmth enveloping your arms and shoulders. You look up to see Spencer wrapping his blazer around you. If any other guy had done this, you would certainly make assumptions, but Spencer was such a kind-hearted guy, you know he's only trying to be a gentleman. You give him a quick smile of appreciation as the two of you start to make your way to the bar.

When you finally walk through the doors, you make your way to a corner booth where you see some of Spencer's team...or your friends? You suppose they've really become your friends here. After greeting Penelope, Derek, and JJ each with a hug, you and Spencer walk up to the bar together to order drinks. Spencer orders water, which doesn't surprise you, but you've already decided that he needs a little help letting loose.

"Would you let me pick out a drink for you?" you ask, giving him your sweetest puppy dog eyes before he has a chance to shoot down the offer.

He sighs as though annoyed but his smile says other wise. "Fine, but go easy on me please."

"Two rum and cokes please, and make mine a double."

The two of you make your way back over to the rest of the group with your drinks. You listen to the four of them chat about some recent cases they've worked on. The topics don't bother you much, as you've always found that line of work intriguing. Since you're mostly listening, you finish your drink fairly quickly before Penelope speaks up.

"Enough work talk! I came to dance. Who's with me?"

Finishing your final sip, you slam the glass down on the table. You stand up to join her. "I'm in!"

JJ stands as well. "Alright, lets go, ladies!"

You hand Spencer back his blazer and look to him and Derek, waiting to see if they'll join.

"I'm feeling a little sore after that take down the other day. Maybe I'll join when I'm s a few more drinks in," Derek says.

"I'm okay for now." Spencer sees your hesitation when you realize he wont be joining. "Its okay though! Go and have fun." He gives a smile to let you know that he'll be fine. "Plus I have Morgan here to talk to for now."

"That's right, pretty boy!" Derek laughs as he throws his arm around Spencer, messing with his hair.

You laugh at the two as you turn to join the girls on the dance floor. You're grateful that those two have one another. Spencer is an only child and Derek seems to act in a big brother role. You know that it's good for him.

As you make your way to JJ and Penelope, the DJ is playing Now or Never by Tritonal. You are so grateful for a place that has good taste in music. EDM is just another one of many genres you enjoy. You and the girls are belting out the words together: "I'd rather have one night, than nothing foreveeerrr!"

As the beat builds you pick up your pace on the dance floor, giggling and dancing around with your friends. The beat finally drops and you're jumping and letting loose. You haven't had this much fun in a long time. Towards the end of the song, your gaze lands on Spencer. You notice Derek has left him to flirt with a girl over by the bar. He brought you along so he wouldn't be alone, and here you had left him. You make your way over to sit next to him after ordering two shots. You sit down next to him and slide his over towards him. He catches it as he raises his eyebrows at you.

"C'mon, you're gonna dance with us! I figure it will probably help if you drink to loosen up a bit first."

Spencer stares down at the shot in front of him, clearly questioning whether or not he should go along with this.

"You don't really have to, Spence. But I thought I'd at least try. I don't want you to have to be all alone over here. And I think you might actually have fun, if you gave it a chance. Plus, I can't dance at all! So you'll be fine as long as you stick with me."

This causes him to chuckle. He looks up at you. "Thanks, Y/N. I do appreciate it. I think everyone else has just kind of given up on asking me to join. But since you care enough to try I guess it's the least I can do."

"Woo! yes! Okay...bottoms up?" You look to him as the two of you clink your shots and down them in one quick motion. He seems to struggle a bit more after, since he doesn't do this often.

You hear Dirty Sexy Money comes on and your eyes light up with excitement. "Yes! This is a great song! Come on!" You grab his hand and lead him out to the dance floor.

You can tell Spencer is a bit unsure of himself still. You grab both of his hands and start to move him around, just trying to get him to loosen him. Both of you can't help but laugh. Neither of you are actually dancing well, just goofing off and having fun. Alcohol leaves you with more confidence than usual, so you're singing the song out loud, not caring who hears. You feel your confidence building even more. The problem with drinking is, you tend to get a bit flirty. This is usually directed at the nearest person, and it's usually the worst possible person. You begin to stop caring who's watching or how you're coming across. The song makes you feel sexy and you want to have fun.

Your dancing changes from silly to sexy as the chorus begins. You've got your hands in the air as you do body rolls. Your hips are swaying with the music. You're not sure how they got there, but before you know it your hands are wrapped around Spencer's neck. He looks so attractive to you right now. Your eyes stay locked on his as you sing the words of the song. You're feeling even more bold so you turn your back to him and grab his hands to place them on your sides. You shimmy down towards the ground and back up again. You feel him tighten his grip on you. You turn around to see a wide-eyed Spencer. His face is beet red and he's sweating despite not having danced much. You know that if this was bothering him, he would have walked away. The alcohol is keeping you from caring how this will affect your friendship afterwards. All you can think about is now. His words, his actions today, HE had made you feel confident and sexy. In this moment, you wanted him to know that. You're too buzzed and too busy taking in how good he looks to notice his eyes dart down to your lips, not so differently from what you had done earlier.

The thick tension in the air between you is quickly dispensed as the song changes. As Last Friday Night comes on, you pull Spencer over to the rest of the group on the dance floor, which now included Derek. The five of you end up singing and dancing around together, but you and Spencer can't help but stealing glances when the other isn't looking. Neither of you can forget what happened earlier. The other three share knowing looks.

As the night comes to a close, the group parts ways. Spencer opens the door for you as the two of you step outside to head back to your apartment. Most of the walk is made in silence. He passes his car outside your building and walks with you all the way back to your door. After unlocking it, you turn to him to say goodnight. Once again, your eyes land on his lips, one of his many wonderful features. You find yourself wishing you could kiss him, but your logic tells you this would not be a good idea at the moment. You are aware that your judgment is clouded. So instead, you pull him in for a hug. He buries his face in your shoulder as he whispers "Goodnight Y/N" next to your ear.

You rush inside and close the door before you have a chance to do anything you regret. After getting ready for bed, you are surprised to hear a small alert from your phone. It's a little late for anyone to be texting you. It's Spencer.

Spencer📱I had fun tonight. Thanks for making me try new things. :)

Y/N📱Me too! And good because I have a feeling that was a first of many haha

You fall into your bed, crawling under the covers. It feels comfier than usual, but you know it's because of how tired you are. You take in the feeling of the slick sheets against your skin and the warmth the blankets provide. You fall asleep with a smile on your face, remembering all the events of the night.

A/N: Thanks for reading this far! Y'all are awesome! Let me know what parts you like best!

Have a wonderful week loves 💖

[fydream]

Your seat, to no surprise is in the back of the class.

"This is what I get for letting the teacher pick my spot" you think to yourself as you walk across the classroom. You notice there's a boy sitting in the desk next to yours, he's dressed nice which means one of two things to you; either he's really nice or he's just a straight up asshole. You hope for the first one.

As you approach your desk and the boy next to it you notice a few things about him. One, he has his earbuds in. Two, he looks pretty organized, and three, he seems to be avoiding everyone, while everyone seems to be looking at him. It's weird how he doesn't seem to notice it. "Maybe he does and he's just ignoring all of the stares or maybe he really just doesn't notice." You think to yourself.

But the one thing you can't help notice about him is how cute he is.

Part of you hopes this'll just be one of those "I think you're pretty cute" kind of crushes while another part of you hopes this'll be something more. Okay maybe you're in over you head on this one.. You shake that thought off your mind as you take your seat and give the boy next to you a slight wave to say hello.

Once he finally notices your presence he gives you a bright smile followed by a "Oh Hello! I haven't seen you around before, are you new here?"

You answer with a nod and a slight smile while he introduces himself. "Oh! I'm Jisung!" He says. He seems nice and you like that about him. Maybe having Jisung as a seat partner won't be that bad after all, he doesn't seem like an asshole, as of now, so you decide to give him a chance. "I'm assuming you're going to be my partner for the rest of the year?" He asks, and once again you nod.

"Not the talking type?" He teases before letting out a laugh and you silently giggle. "That's okay, you're probably overwhelmed hm?" You don't know what it is but there's something intriguing about him. You want to believe it's because you think you could be potential friends but your brain tells you it's because he's cute. It could be both, who knows?

The rest of the passing period is spent with small talk of trying to get to know each other. It's nice and the conversation flows naturally and you feel yourself already becoming comfortable with someone you just met, just like you did when you met Jeno. "Maybe there is hope for me after all." You think to yourself.

Soon enough you hear the bell ring indicating that class is about to start. The teacher introduces you to the class before doing a quick review on what happened yesterday before starting today's lesson. You, being the new student don’t really understand what’s going on, so instead of paying attention you decide to look around the classroom and draw in your notebook that you pulled out during passing period.

The classroom colorful and it looks really nice despite the couple "No Phones" signs hung up around the room, it looks cozy in a way. If you didn't have any friends at all you knew were you would be sitting for lunch.

After your own mini "tour" around the classroom you tune back into the lesson just in time to hear you're getting a project on "The brain and Neurological Disorders." First day here and you're already getting assigned work.. Great..

"Who the fuck assigns a project this early? This is such a heavy topic and I don't even remember anything from last year.." You think to yourself. It's only when Jisung taps on your shoulder, you realize you've zoned out after hearing the word "project."

"Y/n, right?" He starts, and you respond with a quiet "Yeah."

"Did you want to be my partner?" He asks, and you give him a confused look. "Aren't we already partners?" You answer.

"For the project?"

"Oh. It's a partner project? I'm sorry I must've zoned out.." You apologize, looking down towards your open notebook. There wasn't anything written down but the title of the class and todays date, along with a bunch of doodles everywhere.

"It's alright!" Jisung reassures. “So.. I'll take that as a yes?” He asks once again, and you answer with a smile and yet again, another nod.

You're happy and relieved that Jisung doesn't think you're a fucking idiot for zoning out on the teacher talking about your new assignment and thank him after he explains it to you.

"I'm sorry- It's just.. Who assigns a project this early?" You ask and Jisung laughs. It makes you smile to see him laugh at your question.

"I know right? It's like they already want us stressed at the start of our last school year." He jokes.

The rest of the class period is spent getting to know each other as well as working on your project which you both decided would be a poster due to your teachers "No Slideshow" rule which you called stupid.

You learn a lot about Jisung during the hour you've spent getting to know each other, you learn that you two are alike yet different in ways that you can't explain. It's like you've met someone who you've known your whole life, which you find weird since you've only just met this boy. Regardless, you smile, happy at what your first day is turning out to be.

Once again you hear the bell ring, this time indicating that class is over. "Maybe things will be good this school year.." You think to yourself as you walk out into the hallway to find your next class.

11 | previous | next | m.list | main m.list |

✰ how to be a heartbreaker

↳ so what happens when park jisung, the school’s infamous fuckboy runs into the new girl at school? out of boredom he decides it’ll be fun to have someone new to play with, but little does he know, she’s learning how to be a heartbreaker. 

a/n: this part wasnt proof read so im really sorry if there are any typos or errors!! pls lmk if there are!! but thank u for reading it anyways <3

[terramythos]

TerraMythos 2021 Reading Challenge - Book 2 of 26

Title: Authority (The Southern Reach #2) (2014) - REREAD

Author: Jeff VanderMeer

Genre/Tags: Horror, Science Fiction, Ecological Horror, Cosmic Horror, Mystery, Weird, Third-Person, Unreliable Narrator

Rating: 8/10

Date Began: 1/05/2021

Date Finished: 1/10/2021

John "Control" Rodriguez, a disgraced former spy, is given an opportunity to redeem himself at the Southern Reach, the clandestine organization that oversees the mysterious and horrifying Area X. The director has gone missing following the disastrous "twelfth" expedition in Annihilation. Control is brought in to take over her job and fix the Southern Reach... and perhaps find a way to combat the insidious, paranormal effects of Area X.

But Control soon discovers just how deep Area X's corruption infects the place. Even worse, failures of the past-- both his own and those of the Southern Reach-- return to haunt him in disturbing ways. Badly outmatched within and without, Control will need to do everything he can to save not only the organization, but himself.

The last fragment of video remained in its own category: "Unassigned." Everyone was dead by then, except for an injured Lowry, already halfway back to the border.

Yet for a good twenty seconds the camera flew above the glimmering marsh reeds, the deep blue lakes, the ragged white cusp of the sea, toward the lighthouse.

Dipped and rose, fell again and soared again.

With what seemed like a horrifying enthusiasm.

An all-consuming joy.  

Full review, some spoilers, and content warning(s) under the cut.

Content warnings for the book: some body horror but way toned down compared to Annihilation. Mind control/hypnotic suggestion is still a thing. Non graphic sexual content. Disturbing images. Without spoiling the entire book, there are several scenes that come off as gaslighting, but do have an alternate explanation. As before, a pervasive sense of unreality.  

While Annihilation is a deep dive into the horrors of Area X, Authority takes a step back. It examines the situation from the perspective of the Southern Reach, the organization that oversees the expeditions we got to know so intimately in the last book. Control is a newcomer, so he functions as a natural outsider perspective. However, he's far from naïve due to his past experience in what I have to assume is the CIA (just called "Central" in the book). It's clear from the get-go that the Southern Reach is falling apart with its ancient buildings, circular and helpless theories, dwindling funding, and bizarre office politics. While Annihilation frames the Southern Reach as shady and possibly complicit in Area X's existence, Authority demonstrates the government would be predictably bad at handling an unknowable cosmic horror zone over any length of time.

Though I noted in my Annihilation review that most of the mystery surrounding Area X remains just that, Authority casually drops two major revelations in the first few chapters. First is... it's definitely aliens, right? Like, that's the only explanation that tracks-- why everything about the place is anathema to humanity, why it's impossible for characters to fully understand it, why mimicry is such a major aspect, etc. If you didn't suspect this already, it explains a lot. In particular, the "colonization" terminology and imagery in Annihilation hits different in that context. I have a lot of feelings about how this series approaches the extraterrestrial, but I'll save that for my Acceptance review.

The second reveal is that Control is taking over for the former director of the Southern Reach, who is MIA following Annihilation's "twelfth" expedition. Who is the director? The psychologist-- the pseudo antagonist of the last book, who we know got Super Killed Off. Turns out she's important and probably not actually evil? The biologist is also inexplicably back, but something is off about her, and she insists on being called Ghost Bird now. Did the biologist truly return (counter to the ending of the last book) or is this one of the shells Area X sometimes spits back out into the real world? If she's the latter, Ghost Bird seems to have much more personality and self awareness than the others. It is interesting to consider an entity of Area X would willingly name herself.

So, Authority is a weird book. The horror element is still present, but toned down. Instead, there's a lot of focus on the new character Control, his past, and the workings of the Southern Reach. In some ways this is refreshing. Annihilation (and the finale Acceptance) are so deeply entwined with Area X it's hard to see what "normal" looks like, and Authority brings that perspective. Relatively speaking. Second, and this is a spoiler, much of that normalcy is a facade. Control is basically mind controlled (heh) by a faction in Central, and is unaware of it for most of the book. It comes across in little ways, like the anachronistic storytelling and Control's confusion/disorientation at times.

We also learn that Area X doesn't just contaminate things inside it, but things outside it as well... and it's been doing this for some time. As a result, there's always a sense of Area X lurking in the periphery, manifesting in strange and unexpected ways. Something I like is the background chatter Control overhears being lines from Annihilation, which he isn't aware of, but the reader sure is.

I've read this book a few times, and while there are things I really like about it, it's probably my least favorite of the trilogy. I think the slower pacing and different narrative approach have merits, but just aren't as interesting to me as the rest of the series. It's noteworthy that my favorite bits in Authority are the disturbing video of the first expedition and the sudden End of Evangelion-esque return of Area X near the end-- not the espionage and philosophical tangents that comprise most of the book.  There are several ideas that seem interesting but don't go anywhere, and those feel like a waste of space. I think Authority could be pared down to half its page count and still get across the same feelings and general concept.

Control is also not the most interesting protagonist, especially compared to previous and later characters. He's not terrible, but he spends most of his time just thinking in circles and observing mundane office politics. While this is fine at first it starts to drag as the story goes on. As I said, a lot of tangents go nowhere, and there's not much going on beyond those until well over halfway into the book. Control does have a hidden tragic backstory, and it's interesting enough, but it barely factors into the overarching Area X storyline outside some symbolic comparisons. He feels out of place, perhaps intentionally.

I do like the dry humor and observations Control brings and how they contrast with the intense tone of Annihilation. I can also see the appeal of having a more ordinary character, if only to bring context to the extraordinary. But the problem is Control isn't ordinary. He's the youngest member of a dynasty of professional spies! Yet somehow I just don't find him exciting compared to an antisocial biologist. I dunno. Ultimately Control is a pawn in the story, used and manipulated by other people, and (spoilers) this doesn't change in Acceptance.

I had similar dilemmas with VanderMeer's Ambergris books, particularly book two, so perhaps it's a fact about his writing. When it's good it's GOOD, but sometimes the things I like get lost in rambling narrative fluff. The question is whether getting through the less interesting parts is worth it for the really good parts. With The Southern Reach trilogy, I'd argue the latter. I have no issues with the style or pacing in Annihilation or Acceptance, and the overarching story is fascinating.

I've mentioned many times before that I usually struggle with book twos in trilogies, and this one isn't an exception. However, I do appreciate what Authority is going for on a meta and lore level when viewing the series as a whole. It does establish a lot of things that either explain earlier stuff or pay off later; it just takes a while to get to them. The context of everything else bumps this to an 8.   

[bytheangell]

Hello Elle, after our lovely convo on discord, Alec's Friday nights suddenly got busy. For an hour he disappears and doesn't tell anyone where he goes, just stating he's just going out for a bit. What the others don't know is that he's been going over to Simon's and the duo have been trying to get through *insert generic coop video game here*. You can decide if the others find out or not (*^3^)/~☆

What Friends Are For  (Read on AO3)

Alec shrugs on his jacket and grabs the messenger bag from where he casually tossed it by the door on his way in that morning. He has this timed down to the second - being Head of the Institute has a few perks, including when the best time to sneak out during shift changes and while the cafeteria is open for dinner is to avoid anyone noticing him as he slips out. It worked well for a while… until it didn’t.

Lately, it feels like his family and friends must have some sort of tracker on him because this is the third week in a row one of them stopped him just shy of the front doors while he attempts to sneak out unnoticed on a Friday night.

“My big brother, going somewhere other than patrol on a Friday night? I don’t believe it.” Izzy teases good-naturedly. “Date night?”

Alec considers saying yes, but he can’t risk someone needing him or Magnus for something and discovering the lie.

“No,” Alec admits. “Just going out for a bit.”

It’s the same thing he said two weeks ago when Clary assumed he was going to grab a coffee and asked him to bring her back one, too, and the same thing he told Jace last week when Jace tried to get Alec to cover for him so he could go clubbing with Izzy.

Izzy raises a skeptical eyebrow, but Alec’s already turning back towards the door with a dismissive, “Sorry, gotta run!”

That’s the trouble with Shadowhunters - once they notice a pattern, they can’t let it go. It’s ingrained in their training to pick up on things like that, normally in a battle or tracking sense, but it can be applied everywhere. And unfortunately, Alec’s friends seem to have their minds set on applying it to him.

That’s a problem for another day, though, because he’s already out the door and on his way before he can worry too much about it.

---

The following Friday, Alec is halfway through the ops room when he hears a voice speaking behind him loudly enough to get his attention while he walks with his eyes down, determined not to make eye contact with anyone who might try to stop him on his way out.

“If I didn’t know any better,” Alec hears Jace’s voice say. “I’d think you’re cheating on Magnus or something.”

“That’s absurd,” Alec says, rolling his eyes.

“Of course, it is. That’s why I said ‘if I didn’t know any better’,” Jace points out. “The problem is, I don’t really know better, because you keep disappearing every week without telling anyone where you’re going. And I’m not saying you aren’t entitled to your privacy or anything but… it’s just weird, for you.”

Alec’s glare softens a little. They usually don’t ask, and Alec doesn’t offer anything besides out for a bit’, but he should’ve known that could only last so long. He supposes that’s what he gets for suddenly changing his habits after two decades of always being around. “I swear, there’s nothing to worry about.”

Once it’s clear that’s all Alec plans on saying on it, taking Jace up on the ‘you’re entitled to your privacy’ comment, Jace looks resigned for now. “Alright. See you in two hours?”

Alec shakes his head a little, cursing that knack for routine catching. Or maybe he should just stop being so predictable. “See you then.”

---

In the back of his mind, Alec knows that he should’ve left a while ago. He isn’t sure how much longer than his usual hour or two he’s been here because he can’t take his eyes off of the screen in front of him. It’s like watching a car crash in slow motion, first one thing goes wrong, then runs into another, and soon everything is backed up and piling on top of one another in an inevitable train reaction. Alec’s strategy training should be enough to get him through this, but there’s no accounting for the people you have to work with, and-

Alec is so in the zone that he barely registers the sound of the knock on the door until Simon’s moving in a blur away from him to open it and back, all barely in the blink of an eye. Alec assumes it’s Raphael, because who else would it be?

He assumes wrong.

“You know, for someone with vamp speed, you’re moving PRETTY SLOWLY ACROSS THE DAMN KITCHEN,” Alec says, his voice tense, doing his best to unclench his fingers when he sees the tips of them pressed so tightly they’re whiter than usual.

Simon practically growls beside him, “Yeah, well, for a Shadowhunter, you have a SEVERE LACK OF COORDINATION. How did you drop that?”

“Who the fuck cooks sushi at the same time as burgers anyway?” Alec demands. “This is absurd.”

“...because the rest of the game where you cook food hopping between two sides of a river or on a hot air balloon is not absurd. Got it,” Simon huffs, and only when Alec decides to spare a glance to the side to level Simon with a proper glare does he realize it is not, in fact, Raphael who came to the door.

Izzy, Jace, and Clary all stand just inside the front door, fully gaping at the sight of Alec sitting on Simon’s sofa in sweatpants and a t-shirt, his bare feet curled up underneath his legs, holding a video game controller.

“Alec? Alec! What the- great, we lost,” Simon sighs, glancing around at the lot of them. “If I knew you were going to save some sort of existential crisis at the sight of your siblings, I would’ve left them in the hallway. Wait, is something wrong?”

Alec opens and shuts his mouth because he doesn’t have an answer to that. Nothing is wrong in the sense that they’re probably not here because the Institute is on fire, but…

“Oh. My. God,” Clary laughs.

“This is where you’ve been sneaking off to?! We thought you were in some, like, underground fight club or got mixed up in some Ifrit drug ring or something,” Jace says. “Especially when you stopped answering your phone.”

Alec fishes his phone out of his pocket to see that it’s off and doesn’t turn on when he hits the power button. It must’ve died on him since he hadn’t planned on being away from the Institute this long and forgot to charge it before he left.

“I can’t believe you never told me Alec’s been playing video games with you,” Izzy rounds on Simon, sounding betrayed.

“You never asked!” Simon defends.

“I did ask you,” Izzy points out, turning on Alec.

Simon frowns. “You lied about hanging out with me?” He sounds a little hurt.

“No!” Alec insists. “I just said I was-”

“-going out for a bit,” Clary, Jace, and Isabelle all finish in unison with Alec.

Simon seems slightly more comforted by that answer, at least.

“It was just supposed to be one time,” Alec says. “I was just going to help him get past one level, but he got stuck on another the next week, and it just… turned into a thing. I know everyone hates the Friday patrols, and I didn’t want to get shit for skipping out on them to play games.” The guilt at getting caught is enough proof of that. Every week he told himself it’d be the last one, but in all honesty, he didn’t want to stop. They were fun, and Alec didn’t know how to deal with actually wanting to ditch out on work to have fun every so often.

He barely realizes he’s already thinking of it in the past tense because now that they know there’s no way he’s getting away with keeping this Friday night routine up in the future.

“And now you’re best friends with Simon,” Jace smirks.

“We’re not friends-” Alec says. “I just come over once a week to play video games. Well, every week except last week - we watched an episode of some cop, comedy, thing?, so I’d understand a reference he kept making.”

“Every time I said ‘Noice’ instead of ‘nice’ he looked like he was going to have an aneurysm,” Simon supplies, mostly for Clary’s benefit, and Clary snorts out a laugh.

“Yeah, you’re best friends now,” Clary confirms.

“I-” Alec starts to insist that they’re absolutely not, but stops, looking confused.

There’s a lull during which everyone levels Alec with the same look.

“...have you never had a friend before?” Clary asks, not unkindly.

Sure, Alec visits Simon once a week, but he sees Raphael once a week when he comes over to Simon’s after sunset, and that doesn’t make the two of them friends, Alec’s sure of that. The only difference with Simon is that they play video games when they meet up, and sometimes Simon orders takeout for him, or have a drink if Alec doesn’t have a patrol to get back to, and they have occasionally been texting lately, but--

“Raziel, we’re friends, aren’t we?” Alec realizes.

“Not with that attitude,” Simon huffs.

“No, sorry, it’s not-” Alec flounders. “I haven’t, really. Had proper friends.” It sounds sad to admit it like that, but there’s no way around it. Izzy and Jace are his siblings so they hardly count, even if they did the sort of things he’d probably do with actual friends.

“I guess we are friends, then,” Alec admits finally.

Alec is a little embarrassed for Simon watching how intensely he beams at that statement, and that’s saying something coming from the guy who just admitted he never had a proper friend before. Still, Alec can’t deny the bit of warmth he feels at knowing Simon wants to be friends with him, too.

Alec clears his throat. “Great. Now that we got that settled, I guess I should go back and actually, you know, run the Institute since you two are incapable of covering for me for a few hours.”

“Not a chance,” Izzy says, shaking her head.

“You never take time off, or have fun, or-”

“Okay, okay, I think we get it,” Alec cuts Jace off.

“Do you know how long Iz and I have been trying to get you to take time off for yourself? In fact, from now on, I’ve got the Friday night shifts. You two enjoy your game nights. Have a beer or something. C’mon,” Jace motions to Izzy and Clary. “Let’s let them get back to their video game bonding.”

Alec’s sure there’s some sort of catch here, but honestly, the idea of a full night off instead of going back to finish paperwork or clean up any messes is too tempting to pass up just then, so he takes it.

“Just don’t forget to do the dishes this time,” Alec pleads, the others already forgotten as Simon restarts the round.

It’s only later, when he finds out that Izzy, Jace, and Clary have been drilling Simon for anecdotes of Alec being ‘adorably normal’ (in Clary’s words) that he momentarily wonders if it’s worth it.

It doesn’t take him long to decide that it is. So what if the others give him a bit of good-natured harassment for it once and a while… after all, he’s quickly learning, that’s what friends are for.