#at my previous riding school there were 3 of them and at my new one there’s 2

[cherrycranes]

Real Cowgirls Ride (Emmett x Fem!Reader) [+18]

Pairing: Emmett (A Quiet Place 2) x Fem!Reader Summary: When you go to a bar in upstate New York with your girlfriends for a bachelorette party, you encounter a hot rugged man who´ll teach you how to ride like a real cowgirl. Word count: 4,248 Contents: (Minors DNI). No apocalypse AU. Age gap (Reader is 24, Emmett is 39), Oral sex (fem receiving), a little bit of ass licking (fem receiving), fingering, P in v, protected sex! Author's notes: Once more, a collab with @fuckiingloser cause that's my wifey. Mandatory "english is not my first language" disclaimer. Enjoy the ass licker.

It was the first time you ever stepped a foot in this rural upstate New York town. Certainly an interesting choice for a bachelorette party, but your friend: the bride, and her future husband had grown up here. It was nice, though. A very appreciated change of scenery from your busy downtown New York City life. It had been a 3 hour drive to get here, and you planned to just have a good time.

The party had a cowgirl theme and you had gone all out: a borrowed pair of red cowgirl boots that you had never imagined wearing in your life, a pair of dangerously tiny Daisy Duke jean shorts and a white cropped t-shirt that said “Budweiser” across the front. All topped with a matching cowboy hat sitting on top of your head. Your girlfriends showered you with compliments, you played the part so well.

It was around 11:30 pm now, and after several stops of the bar crawl, you all walked into a smoky, dark dive bar. The neon signs gave the entire room a dull glow. It was moderately full, mostly with old blue collar men tired from a long day's work. Some of them gave your group a few stares that only your tipsy state managed to ignore. You had come here for fun, and that’s what you would have. 

You got a big table, ordered some drinks and shots and cheered for the bride, wishing her all the best with the love of her life. And, in secret, you hopelessly wished that you would find yours too… You were painfully single at 24 and your only one previous boyfriend had cheated on you after a year of dating. You were still young but loneliness stung.

To distract yourself, you ordered a few more shots and just went along with the vibe of the bar and your friends’ laughter. Some moments later, you wandered over to the old school jukebox that sat alone on a dark corner to flip through the endless pages of song options. Some you knew, some you didn’t, and one you picked before a rugged voice behind you interrupted you:

“Excuse me, miss...” You turned to look. “I just have to have a look at these fancy red cowgirl boots up close...” The man in front of you said with a charming little smirk and with his baby blue eyes looking down at your feet, then at your legs, your body and, eventually, meeting your eyes. 

You looked him over too, with his plain white t-shirt, blue wrangler jeans, dusty work boots, scruffy beard with a few silver strands in it and a ball cap with some brown curls peeking out underneath it. Quite handsome. His little excuse to come over and talk to you was pathetic but cute, it had made you smirk a little. And when you looked into his beautiful eyes and saw that pretty smile again, you decided to give him a shot.

“Honestly… My buddies over there were givin’ me a hard time and said that I’d never forgive myself if I didn’t say something to the pretty girl in the red cowboy boots...” He gestured over to his friends in the booth in the other corner who gave you a wave and smile. You turned back to look at him, and gave yourself the luxury of eyeing him up and down again. He was definitely older than you, but not exactly old enough to be your father. He must have been in his early 40’s at most. He was sort of rugged, most likely a blue collar man. Some tattoos poked out from under the sleeve of his t-shirt. He was not the type of guy you were used to encountering in New York City. “I'm Emmett..” He smirked, and you chuckled a bit at his words.

“Hate to break the news but I borrowed these from a friend… I’m not a real country girl.” You admitted with a smile. Emmett laughed softly and leaned against the almost forgotten jukebox.

 “Well… They look good on you either way… That’s for sure…” He looked over your body once more, shameless infatuation irradiating from him. His boldness made you smile again, and admittedly, it also turned you on. Like clockwork, the first notes of the song you picked started to play and Emmett gave you an approving smile.

“Good choice… You’ve got good taste obviously… Would you like to dance, beautiful?” He asked, his voice like velvet in your ears. You felt a sweet heat rush to your cheeks and you nodded.

“I'd like that.” You smiled and he took your hand with a gentleness that was to die for, pulling you closer and wrapping his strong arms around your waist. In return, you wrapped your arms around his neck and followed him along. Butterflies flew in your stomach like they hadn’t in so long when his arms tightened around you.

You chatted a little, dancing slowly in the middle of the dive bar with his rough hands rubbing the exposed skin of your back. In the background of the slow song, you could make out the voices and giggles of your friends who must have been staring in amusement and support. 

In between the small conversations and the dance, you found out Emmett owned a farm nearby. Mostly horses and some crops. You also found out he was 39 years old. Never married, currently single. Then it came time for questions about your life, your work, your age, where were you from…

“Ahh, so you’re a city girl, makes sense… Never seen someone as hot as you around here before...” Emmett whispered, still swaying with you and still holding you tight. You blushed, something not everybody did to you, but there was something about him. His looks, his charm, his rough hands. You couldn't help yourself.

Guided by that feeling, you kept talking. Now telling him about your failed relationship, your cheater ex-boyfriend and your 8 month-long singlehood. Emmett’s brow furrowed upon hearing that.

“Fuckin’ asshole… Who would ever wanna lose you? You need a real man… Not a little immature boy..” He whispered, shaking his head gently and tightening his tattooed arm around you ever so slightly, just for the butterflies in your stomach to go even wilder. 

Your song ended and the jukebox went silent. Emmett immediately asked to buy you a drink, and how would you even say no? Next thing you knew, you were sitting on a barstool with him standing in front of you, a hand on your thigh making you swoon. He leaned over to order, the scent of his almost worn-off cologne sending more heat towards the right places.

“Two miller lites please, thanks.. ” The bartender cracked open two beers and pushed them towards Emmett. He handed you one along with a sly smile, his other hand still on your thigh.

“Well… Cheers to a good night that I'm hoping gets even better.” Emmett held his drink up to yours and clicked them together with a nice melodic sound. 

“Cheers.” You chuckled, arousal pooling in your lower abdomen and burning steady for the entire time you and Emmett talked and flirted in between sips. Some guilt crept up on you at having practically abandoned your girlfriends, but every quick glance towards them made you find them winking and putting their thumbs up. So you focused back on Emmett, laughed at his jokes, touched his arm, gave him your best smile…

“Can’t believe a pretty girl like you is interested in an old man like me.” He rubbed his hand softly on your exposed thigh, and you couldn't help but let out a sincere chuckle.

“You're hotter than any guy I've met in the city by a million honestly… A real man who works with his hands and knows what he wants and isn’t shy about it…” Every word of yours was soaked in a sensual tone and your eyes never looked away from him now. He had the most beautiful pale blue eyes you had ever seen, his pupils were long dilated from looking at you, and they seemed to get even more when he heard you talking like that.

“Well, you sure know how to flatter a guy… I’ve gotta say you’re one of the sexiest things I've ever seen.” Emmett leaned in to whisper into your ear, his lips giving you a featherlight touch. “My hands aren’t the only thing I’m good with…” His warm breath sent a satisfying shiver down your spine. “And I do know what I want… I wanna see what’s underneath this little crop top and these tiny jean shorts…” 

Your breath hitched ever so slightly, the hairs at the back of your neck stood up. His rough hand gripped the soft flesh of your thigh firmly, the sensation, along with his words, going straight to your core and now dampened panties. 

It was 12:45 am now, the clock upon the wall ticked in front of Emmett’s eyes with an eager question. 

“It's getting pretty late… Whaddya say you come home with me tonight… And I can teach you how to ride like a real cowgirl?” He whispered through a seductive smirk, tucking a lock of hair behind your ear and effectively making your clit pulse. You bit your lip, took in the pale blue of his eyes and leaned a bit closer.

“You wanna be my teacher?” You asked him, holding his gaze. Emmett nodded before taking a swig of his beer, finishing it and putting it on the bar.

“I'm sure a girl like you could teach an old dog like me a few tricks too…” 

Your smirk turned into a grin before his eyes and your wet pussy fluttered again. God, he was so smooth and beyond sexy. The kind of man you needed.

“Take me home cowboy.” You whispered, ripples of arousal traveling around your body as you watched Emmett pull out his wallet and slap a 20 dollar bill on the counter to cover for your drinks and tip, before taking your hand like a gentleman.

Your girls cheered when they saw you walking out with him, and you so graciously gave them a playful middle finger that made them laugh out loud.

Emmett held the door open for you and all the exposed parts of your body felt the cool summer breeze of the night air. Not for long though, his truck was just a few steps away, and as the gentleman he was, he opened the passenger seat door for you and helped you in. The inside was rather cozy, an air freshener hung from the rear-view mirror along with a, quite fitting, tiny cowboy hat charm. You flicked it with your finger as Emmett got in the driver’s seat. 

“Before we leave...” He started, leaning over the center console. Before you could ask him anything, his lips met yours in a hot, sensual kiss. Inevitably, your hand reached up to touch his beard, and you delighted with the taste of beer and faint mint gum in his mouth.

“Wow… All this is yours?” You asked softly, admiring the vast space bathed in starlight.

 “Sorry, I just had to… Couldn’t wait another minute.” He whispered against the softness of your lips, forming a smile. He sat back in his seat and started the truck up, making it roar to life. His left hand held the wheel and his right hand found his new favorite spot: your thigh. Soft rock born from his radio barely made noise as he drove you down the mostly empty country roads to his home nearby. You raised both eyebrows when an old farmhouse and several barns came into view.

“It is indeed, pretty girl.” Emmett smiled, pulling up next to the house and getting out of his truck, this time helping you out of it, upholding the true gentleman behavior. 

His arm wrapped around you once again, his body warmth fighting for you against the chill summer night’s breeze. You smiled when the front door opened for you and you were the first to step foot inside the cute little farmhouse. It was rather lovely, perhaps too minimally decorated but it was to be expected, he was a 40 year old man living alone. You seemed to be the most feminine thing in this house. 

“I love it… So cozy.” You leaned against the kitchen counter, attracting Emmett to you. His hands found your hips and he looked down at you with that flirtiness that made your pussy wetter. 

“You haven’t even seen the bedroom yet.” He whispered, closer and closer to you until another sensual kiss captured your lips. Your mouth gave his skillful tongue entrance and with a delicious groan he picked you up easily. Your legs wrapped around his hips and his hands supported you by holding your ass. He swallowed a moan from you and walked you both across the house, towards the stairs and into his bedroom. There, he laid you down on his big bed, his lips reluctantly leaving yours for air.

You propped yourself up to your elbows, granting him a visual feast for his eyes to devour. Your exposed midriff, your little shorts and those cute little red boots. Since your cowboy hat had been lost somewhere on the way to his bed, your hair was slightly messy, and your lips glistened from his saliva. He didn’t know where to begin with you. 

“Fuck, you’re sexy…” He admired you, reaching down to pull one of your boots off, then the other one. Both joined his wooden floor. “I need to see this perfect body naked for me…”

You giggled, his hands now occupied themselves with your jean shorts. In a couple of seconds they also met the floor.

“Would ya look at that…” Emmett let out a flirty whistle upon seeing what you hid underneath the denim: a little red thong that made his cock twitch in his jeans, another reminder of how painfully hard he was. His calloused thumb didn’t resist and ran over your clothed pussy, slowly making its way between your folds and marveling at the feeling of the damp fabric. He growled in approval. 

“Someone’s wet…” He looked into your eyes and you felt a rush of blood divide itself to reach both your cheeks and your needy cunt. You bit your lip, your body ablaze.

“Flip over for me, baby… Face down ass up.” He ordered after playing with you over your panties a little bit. You, incredibly turned on and obedient to any sexy command he could throw your way with that deep voice of his, didn’t even think about it twice.

“Yes, Sir.” You played along, flipping over for him with your ass in the air and your cheek against the duvet cover. 

“Fuuuck…” He groaned at the sight. You knew very damn well your little thong was covering absolutely nothing from behind. “I wanna make sure this little pussy is prepped for my lesson…” he said, peeling the thong off you slowly. 

Anticipation pooled at your cunt, the flimsy red fabric left your body with his help. Once you were free, Emmett palmed both your asscheeks and spread them slowly. He moaned at the sight of your glistening pussy and tight asshole, all fully waxed.

“Jesus Fuckin’ Christ…” He breathed out, feeling his heart skip a beat. “I could come just looking at you…” He whispered just inches away from your needy cunt.

You moaned softly at his words, feeling completely exposed yet so turned on. Nothing else could matter to you anymore.

“Please...” You whimpered so needily, he couldn’t resist leaning in and letting his tongue slide between your slippery folds. A guttural groan of his made your pussy reverberate, the taste of you on his tongue so addictive, so divine.

“Oh my god…” Now, you moaned. Emmett’s hot tongue licked a fat stripe from your clit all the way to your ass, flicking against it. The sensation was so good you could barely comprehend it.

You moaned over and over, his thick fingers pumped in and out of you in a slow but firm motion. He watched hungrily as your tight cunt took them in so easily and so greedily.

“You taste like honey…” He purred to our flesh before spitting on your pussy, his saliva slowly dribbling down between your lips and making him groan in approval. Two of his fingers gathered some of that spit on them before circling your aching hole, slowly pushing inside of you from behind. 

 “Fuck… Feels so good…” You spoke in between moans that only got louder when Emmett curled his fingers inside you, hitting that special spot. “Holy fuck…” 

The louder you moaned, the faster his thick fingers moved and curled. Your eager pussy had his index and middle fingers completely wet and glistening.

“That feels good, pretty girl?” He asked with a smirk. “Gotta make sure this little pussy is ready to ride my big cock…” he growled hungrily. 

“I-I’m ready… Please…” His pumping fingers had you bucking your hips in desperation and stuttering, almost out of your mind. Emmett loved every single detail about it, you looked just so beautiful when you were this horny and needy. Mercifully, he pulled his fingers out of your begging cunt and slowly brought them to his mouth, groaning at the taste of you.

“Flip over, baby.” He commanded, the sound of the zipper of his jeans making your ears perk up. You did as he said, catching the glimpse of his pants hitting the floor and his shirt being pulled over his head. He tossed it aside, the view of his toned, hairy chest and arms, along with those sexy tattoos of his made your pussy feel even more needy. Your eyes feasted on him, from his chest to his hard on in his briefs.

“I think you’re ready for your lesson…” Emmett crawled onto the bed and laid on his back, dark curls resting on his pillows. Right away, you sat on your knees, watching the way his arm flexed as he reached over to the side table and opened the drawer. Touch guided his way to a gold wrapper.

“A little help?” He smirked, looking down at his hard cock still tucked in his underwear. You smiled and nodded, your fingers hooking on the gray waistband and gently peeling the fabric down his legs. His big hard cock immediately sprung free for your eyes to devour. A throaty groan resonated from him. It was much bigger than what you had pictured, it was impossible to not stare at it in all its veiny, throbbing glory. 

Emmett ripped open the condom wrapper with his teeth, rolling the latex down his thick cock and looking up at you with a sexy smile.

“You ready to be my cowgirl?” 

Immediately, you snapped out of your trance and nodded.

“Yes, sir…” Your voice came out sweet and so lovely, his hand motioned towards him.

“C’mere, baby…” Emmett cooed and you moved to stand above him. You lowered down slowly on him until your sensitive folds felt the covered tip of his cock, making him groan a little at the friction.

“Mmm, slow baby…” He coached you in a soft voice, putting his hands on your hips and guiding you. “Sink down slowly…” And slowly you did it. His cock slid inside your tight hot ready entrance easily, with all the time in the world. You sank down further, each of your knees on either side of his thighs almost trembling at the stretch. Loud moans escaped you both in unison as you adjusted to him and he adjusted to you. You felt so full, for a second you even doubted if it all could fit, but, as if his cock was designed for your tight little cunt, he fully slid right in with ease. 

“Oh, fuck…” You breathed out, looking into his beautiful eyes through your fluttering eyelashes. “So deep…” Words came in soft whine. Soft, clingy hands supported you by touching his broad, hairy chest. Emmett smirked, a perverted gleam in his eye from watching you adjusting to his thick cock.

“You feel me in here, baby?” He whispered, voice thick and heavy with lust. One of his calloused hands moved from your hip to your lower belly, pressing into your soft flesh and creating an erotic pressure that you could only moan and nod to. You felt him so deeply, all over and inside you.

“You feel so fucking good around me…  So tight and warm. I think this pussy was made to ride my cock.” His voice was low and rough, both hands moved to your hips again, ready to begin.. 

“Now, just go with the flow and get into a good rhythm baby… I’ll help…” He coached you with a sly grin that made your cunt clench around him. He was just so sexy, and he knew and reveled in it. “Just relax and enjoy the ride…” 

After exhaling a needy breath, you started to swivel your hips a bit, riding him slowly. Emmett groaned, his eyes closed in utter pleasure. His hands stayed glued to your hips and guided the slow rhythm your rolling hips set. You both moaned. His hips moved a little under you, encouraging you more and more.

“Look at you cowgirl...” His voice was already a little breathy, his groan took over the last letters of the word “girl”. His cock throbbed inside you at the sight of your pretty tits moving under the Budweiser logo. He helped you out with that, pulling your cropped shirt off your body and hungrily taking in the view of your bare chest as you bounced on his dick.

You moaned more when the tip of his cock hit that deep spot, and the more you spent riding him and earning yourself the title of cowgirl, the more he entertained an idea. 

After a minute or two, Emmett pulled you down, making you chest to chest with him and wrapping his toned arms around you. A searing, sloppy kiss entered your mouth while his hips pistoned from beneath. Your sweet tongue melted into his before he whispered against your lips.

“Now it’s time for you to relax and I'll do all the work baby…” His hoarse voice tickled your skin and he planted his feet on the mattress, gaining the support he needed to immediately pick up the pace and pound into you relentlessly from underneath. No thoughts registered properly in your brain from that point forward, it was all just a hot, wet pool of pleasure. A series of curses left your lips with no particular order and with no respect for anything.  

“Oh-fuck… Oh my fucking god... Fuck!” You cried out into the skin of his neck, the sound of your voice mixing with his low groans and the slapping of skin.

“You fuckin like that?” He panted into your ear, his hips never stopping as you moaned non stop.

“Yes... Yes... Fuck, yes!” You cried out as his hands moved to spank your ass, hard. You almost screamed, the sting nearly sending you over the edge. It was so overwhelming, you didn’t fully realize just how close you were until that moment.

“Jesus… I think I'm gonna come…” You whimpered and his hand came down again hard on your ass, definitely leaving a red mark. Emmett held you so tight against his chest, holding you in place for his thick cock to slam into over and over.

“Come for me..” He looked right into your eyes with pure want in the blue of his irises. And as if on command… You did. 

Eyes squeezed shut so tight you saw lights, a whiny moan was born from the depths of your chest and your sweet, slick cunt clenched around him tight. Your legs couldn't stop shaking and your orgasm took over every single sense. All your being was just a giant orgasm that still could feel him pumping hard into you.

“Holy fuck..” He breathed out in awe watching and feeling you succumb to all the pleasure. 

“Good girl..” He whispered, praising you right before capturing your lips in a hot kiss. “I'm coming too..” Even in your state, you could tell. His thrust had gotten sloppier and his breathing was much heavier. He wasn't able to hold back much longer. Inside the transparent latex, you felt him pulse and fill the material with his warm cum. He groaned, his arms held you tight and kept you there until the last drop was out.

Panting like you had just ran a marathon and with hearts beating fast, you laid there chest to chest. You put your forehead against his in a sweet moment, in response, his hand rubbed your back slowly.

 “Jesus… that was...” He whispered, still a little out of breath looking right into your eyes. You couldn't help but blush and put on a shy smile. 

“...the best sex i’ve ever had…” You softly finished his sentence. 

He pulled out slowly and sat up with you still pressed against his chest. His eyes studied your face for a minute before speaking. “I think you may be a real cowgirl after all…” There was that sly smirk once more, one that made you return the sentiment and lean in with him for one last soft kiss.

Pinterest board with our visual inspo for this fic, made by @fuckiingloser

[saturnvs]

but imagine this: a fjording that is also a unicorn :)

[wandanatsgf]

Sugar, Sugar Part 2

Pairing: WandaNat x Reader

Word Count: 2.3k

Summary: You, Wanda, and Natasha go over your sugar baby contract and you experience what it's like having the two women please you.

Warning: This contains smut and the following kinks: degradation, praise, thigh riding, daddy kink, mommy kink (I think that's all of them, but let me know if I missed one)

Author's note: I meant to post this last night, but I ended up falling asleep. Anyway here it is now! I decided to add smut, but since this is the trios first time I kept it pretty tame (at least according to my standards its pretty tame lol)

Part 1 Part 3

After your little date with Natasha and Wanda, you go home with Kate. You climb into bed, surprisingly happy about how today turned out. You never thought being a sugar baby was something you would ever do, but the prospects of being able to afford rent and bills was just too tempting. And it helped that two of the hottest women in the world wanted you. All of your previous reservations about being a sugar baby had practically vanished after your meeting with the women.

You spend your night texting Natasha and Wanda, just getting to know them. You learn about their lives and they learn about yours.

The next morning arrives pretty quickly, and you're excited because you know it means you get to talk to Nat and Wanda some more.

You check your phone and you see that you have two new messages in your newly made groupchat.

Nat: Good morning hon! Text us when you're up, we wanted to meet today and draft up a contract.

Wanda: And have a good day! Talk to you soon baby!

The messages bring a smile to your face, and you quickly text the two women, telling them you can meet them whenever. They decide to pick you up at 1 and to bring you to their home to have this conversation.

The two women arrive at your apartment promptly at 1pm, just like they said they would. Natasha is in the driver's seat, while Wanda is in the drivers seat. Wanda get out when she notices you approaching so that she can open your door.

"Thanks Wanda," you say, blushing over the fact that this beautiful woman is opening the door for you.

"You're welcome darling," she says back. She makes sure that you're buckled before she climbs back into her seat. Once she's situated Natasha takes off to their house.

The three of you converse the throughout the whole drive. You talk about your school, your friends, their work, and more. Pretty soon Natasha is pulling up to a gated driveway and punching in a code. The gate retracts and lets the car in.

As the car pulls into the driveway, your mouth drops open. You knew the two of them were rich, but you didn't realize just how rich they are. Their house is massive, with it's pool and basketball court and tennis court. From the looks of it, the house has everything you could ever need.

"You might want to close your mouth baby," Natasha says with a smile, glancing back at you in her rearview mirror.

"Sorry," you say. You glance down at your lap, hoping to avoid eye contact with either of the women.

"You don't have to apologize baby, she's just teasing. Aren't you Natty?"

Natasha nods in agreement before saying, "You're just so cute when you're embarrassed honey." Natasha throws the car into park and walks around to open the door for you this time. A blush is gracing your face, and you think in the presence of these two, it's never going to go away. She helps you out the car and leads you into the house, with Wanda right behind the two of you. Wanda goes right, while you and Natasha goes left, where she leads you to a home office.

You sit down in a chair while Natasha sits in the one of the left of you.

"Where'd Wanda go?"

"She just went to get some drinks," Natasha says. "She'll be here soon." As soon as those words left Natasha's mouth, in walks Wanda carrying three bottles of water, a laptop, and a stack of papers. She gives one set of papers and water to you and one to Tasha, leaving one for herself.

Wanda sits down on the seat to your right and then she starts talking.

"I know this can be a lot to take in," Wanda says. "But we just wanted to go over everything and make sure you understand what you're getting yourself into. And if you decide to change your mind, you can back out at any time," Wanda assures you.

“Ok so what’s first?”

“First we wanted to talk about what we’re expecting and maybe tweak some things if we need to,” Natasha says. “The paper we gave you is just an example of a contract and what ours could look like.”

“We’re looking for someone to go to events with us when the other can’t go and to keep us company whenever we want. Are those things you’re okay with sweetheart?” Natasha asks you.

“Yes I’m fine with all of that,” you say. “I’d be more than happy to spend time with the two of you,” you say rather flirtatiously.

“Look who’s getting all courageous now,” Wanda lightly teases.

“I guess the two of you are just rubbing off on me.”

“Mhm,” the woman says, agreeing with you. She eyes you up and down, and you can see her pupils dilating, but the look in her eyes disappears just as quickly as it appeared.

“What’s next?”

“So allowance. We were thinking $2000 a week plus whatever gifts we give you. Is that enough?” Wanda asks.

Your mouth drops open.

“What is something wrong? Do you need more?” Natasha asks, noticing your shocked expression.

“No! That’s more than enough,” you assure her. “I’m just not used to that much money,” you explain.

"It's no problem baby, you deserve it." Natasha's words bring a smile to your face.

"Next thing we need to discuss is sex, we can put off this conversation until later or we can have it now, whatever you want baby," Wanda says.

"We can talk about it now," you say, a shy smile gracing your face. Even though you were experienced in the bedroom, the topic still made you embarrassed.

"So you know that we're both doms, and I'm guessing based off of that cute, little smile and blush on your face, you're a sub?" Natasha asks. You nod your head in conformation.

And do you know about the traffic light system?"

"Yes, I've used it before."

"Okay good. If you ever need to safe word for any reason whatsoever, just say red and everything stops. We promise we won't be mad," Wanda says.

"Thank you, I really appreciate that, you two," you say.

"You don't have to thank us honey. We're just doing what all doms should do," Natasha says. Her words give you a sense of comfort. You had never been with someone who cared about your wellbeing like the two of these women did. And the crazy thing is, you had just met these women, but you still felt safe with them.

“And aftercare. What do you like?”

“Cuddles, baths or showers, cuddly naps,” you say.

"Okay that’s actually perfect, that’s what we like too. And now we just need to go over some kinks, and you can just tell us if you like them or not, okay sweetheart?" Wanda asks.

"Okay, that sounds good."

"Bondage?"

"Yes."

"Spanking?"

"Yes."

"Praise?"

"Yes."

"Choking?"

"Yes."

"You're a dirty little thing, aren't you baby? It'd probably be easier for us to just ask what you aren't into huh?" Wanda teases you.

"Yeah, unless you'd like to be here all day," you say.

"I'd have no objections to that," Natasha says, making you giggle. "So what aren't you into baby?"

"Anything with feet, poop, illegal stuff, anything with permanent marks, ummm" you say, trying to think of more. "I think that's it, or it's all I can think of right now."

"I knew you'd be a dirty little thing," Wanda tells you.

"How do you feel about calling Wanda mommy and me daddy?" Natasha asks, slightly changing the subject.

"I'd really like that," you say. You can already feel your pussy starting to drip just talking about all of these kinks, and your neediness is starting to get to you.

"It looks like you really like that princess," Wanda says, her eyes trained on your lap, where you had been trying to subtly adjust yourself, trying to relieve the pressure in your core.

A whine is the only thing that leaves your lips, and it surprises the two women.

"Sounds like you need some help baby," Natasha says.

"Please Daddy," you beg.

Hearing the word daddy fall from your mouth has Natasha instantly reacting. She gets up from her chair and stands behind you. She leans down, her lips lightly grazing you ear. "Are you sure baby? I know we said we'd ease you into this, and if you don't want to do anything sexual right now we don't have to," Natasha says, wanting to make sure you're alright.

"I'm sure, please touch me, I need you," you beg both of the women. Before the words had barely left your mouth you're being attacked by two sets of lips and hands. The next thing you know Wanda is pulling you onto her lap. She lifts your skirt up a bit, adjusting you so that your panty covered mound is against her thigh.

Wanda's lips attach to the side of your neck while Natasha moves to stand behind the two of you, so that you are face to face with her. She tilts your head up so you can look at her. She presses her lips to yours and her kiss is surprisingly gentle.

Wanda's hand go to your hips, adjusting you so that you're straddling one of her thighs. She detaches her lips from your neck so she can speak to you.

"Be a good little slut and ride mommy's thigh, baby," Wanda says to you. You moan into Natasha's mouth, as she continues to kiss you while you start to slowly grind your hips.

"Come on baby. I know you can do better than that. Be a good girl for mommy and daddy and grind on mommy's thigh like a little slut," Natasha says, encouraging you. You start to grind harder on Wanda's thigh, while Natasha's left hand makes it's way to your hair. She threads her fingers through your hair and tilts you head up. Her other hands plies your mouth open and spits in your waiting mouth. The action turns you on even more if that is even possible.

"Swallow," she commands. You obediently swallow. "Good girl," she says when you open your mouth to show her that you swallowed. Natasha's mouth attaches itself to your neck now, her hands slipping underneath your bra and shirt and onto your chest, pinching and toying with your nipples.

Wanda's hands are on your waist, encouraging you to keep moving. As you chase your high your hips speed up, your clit bumping against Wanda's thigh with every thrust. You can feel your high quickly approaching, your senses just so overwhelmed by the two women.

"Please, please, please," you beg, the need to cum approaching. The women's touches are overstimulating, it's like you can feel them everywhere.

"Use your words sweetheart. What's my little slut want?" Wanda says.

"Please mommy, please daddy, let me cum," you beg, your thrusts starting to get sloppy as you start to lose control over yourself.

"Cum for us baby," one of the women say, although you're not sure which one it is, too caught up in your pleasure to notice.

Your loud moans fill up the room as you cum all over Wanda's thigh, your panties becoming soaked and sticky as your cum leaks out of your pussy and into them.

"You did such a good job baby," Wanda says. She moves you so that your arms are wrapped around her neck and she presses gentle kisses to your face.

"You're such a good girl, doing everything we asked so perfectly," Natasha praises. The praise makes you cling onto Wanda more, making you more needy than you already are, but the two women don't mind. 'Do you wanna go shower sweetheart?"

"But what about you two?" you ask, referencing the fact that neither woman came.

"This was just about you baby. You can help us out some other time," Wanda says.

"ok," you say agreeing with Wanda. "Can I have a bath instead?"

"Of course angel, whatever you want," Natasha says.

The three of you make your way to the bathroom, passing through what you think is Natasha and Wanda’s bedroom to get there. Natasha grabbing soap and a wash cloth for you while Wanda makes the bath for you.

"Bubbles or no bubbles?"

"Bubbles please," you say. Wanda grabs her favorite bubble bath and pours some into the tub for you. Soon the tub is filled up and the two women go to leave, assuming you would want some privacy, when you stop them.

"Can you join me please? Unless you don't want to, which is fine," you say quickly, your voice trailing off at the end.

"Of course we'll join you honey," Natasha says. Pretty soon the three of you are sitting in the massive tub, bubbles surrounding the three of you. You’re cuddled in between the two women, while they both bathe you.

“Okay are you ready to get out now?” Wanda asks after you had been in there long enough for the water to go cold. You nod yes and let the two women help you out. They dry you off and give you some of their own clothes to wear.

“Thank you,” you tell the two women once you were dressed, sleepiness lacing your voice.

“You’re welcome sweetheart,” Wanda says, leaving a gentle kiss on your nose.

“Of course, honey,” Natasha says, gently kissing your cheek. “Do you need a nap baby?”

“Yes please,” you say. Hearing you say yes please melts the two women’s hearts, not that they would tell you that though.

The two women take you to their room and lay you gently in the bed. They crawl in too, surrounding you on both sides.

“Go to sleep honey. We’ll be here when you wake up,” Wanda says. The two women leave kisses on your head while you cuddle into them, eventually drifting off.

Once you’re asleep the two women share a look and they both know what the other is thinking. They like you a lot, way more than they’ve ever liked a sugar baby before, and they don’t know what it means yet. But they will gladly find out.

taglist: @alexawynters @marvelwomen-simp @tobiaslut @flositaa

[sleep-escapes-me]

didn't know they were dating

Imogen x Laudna

word count: 2569

a modern au told through the eyes of convenience store employee, Cynthia, and the observations she makes while working

read the full version on ao3

//

“Are you able to work independently in a fast-paced environment?”

“Yes, sir. At my previous job, my boss was impressed with how—,”

“You’re hired.”

The evening shift is Cynthia’s new home. She’s grateful for the opportunity at something different but more so for the money. Having hobbies is expensive and horses are expensive. So when your hobby is horses…well.

And school of course. Money for school.

“Welcome to Faramore’s!”

The cheery disposition is easy enough to muster. And once her manager stops randomly showing up during her shifts after the first week, Cynthia realizes the pep isn’t necessary. At least not with the crowd of customers she’s slowly getting used to.

It's a nice job for the pay. The shop she works at is located in a sleepy neighborhood on the city's outskirts so it rarely gets busy. Every night so far has been peaceful. Giving Cynthia plenty of time to finish any homework and people-watch.

She comes to recognize the regulars fairly quickly and learns all their names only because she’s nosy and the receipt is right there.

There's the blue-haired guy with the nice smile, Dorian, who more often than not has a guitar strapped to his back. He usually shows up with his boyfriend, seemingly always coming from a workout at the gym, Orym. His eyes are incredibly discerning if not a little unsettling. He stares at her like he knows all her secrets. But they’re always very polite and ask how she’s holding up in the late hour. Cynthia likes them.

Protein bar Lip balm Ready-to-bake pie crust $15.99

There's the incredibly tall gorgeous woman, Fearne, who always smells like a garden of wildflowers when she walks in. Cynthia’s been scared to ask what perfume she wears after an incident where she caught the woman attempting to steal. Maybe Cynthia is just naive but she thought being caught once would deter further attempts…but that strangely wasn’t the case. She's had to let it go altogether because she just gets so flustered. One playful wink from the woman has Cynthia forgetting all about the incident to the point that she makes an effort to make sure her manager never finds out about the missing stock.

Novelty monkey lighter Cinnamon gum 3 tubes of lipstick Pack of ribbons Costume jewelry Various postcards $0

Then there’s the punk-looking one with the spikey purple hair, Ashton, who always shows up exactly at 1 AM every other night. Cynthia was weary of him at first but then he gave her some really great unsolicited advice on how to not get swindled when negotiating with flaky people. After that night he started tipping her a single dollar and imparting arbitrary wisdom. Cynthia hasn’t yet figured out if it’s some kind of prank…

Two cases of beer Travel sewing kit Toothbrush $20.06

Probably the loudest customers are the two old men who have the strangest conversations every time they enter the store. Cynthia desperately wishes to get in on whatever strange schemes the hairier one, Chetney, seems to always be involved in. Half of them can’t be true but his imagination excites her regardless. The other one rides in on a bright yellow scooter half the time and always wishes Cynthia a smiley day without fail no matter the time of day. He never brings any money or pays for anything so Cynthia doesn’t know his name aside from the obvious nickname, Letters, that she hears thrown around by Chetney. The lack of money always starts an argument between the two old men that she has to awkwardly stand and listen to. She learns new curse words all the time from them.

Wood finisher Scented body oil $18.12 Chamomile tea Cigarettes $12.87

And her favorite; the girlfriends. Or at least that’s what Cynthia assumes they are. It’s hard to tell.

The spooky-looking one, Laudna, tries to make small talk while at the register. Cynthia isn’t shy by any means but it’s sometimes hard to keep up with the odd topics of conversation. Soon enough Cynthia’s learning about her pet rat who’s so old he should be dead and how he’s always jumping off high places attempting to fly. Cynthia nods politely and keeps her opinions to herself.

Mixed seeds Red yarn Super glue $15.26

The other woman Laudna is always with, Imogen, is a bit more demure—or maybe guarded is more apt. Her eyes never leave Laudna and seems content to listen to her prattle on as they shop. She rarely buys anything. It’s usually at the behest of Laudna reminding her of some arbitrary thought.

Pencils Hand lotion $11.07

//

Imogen comes in alone for the first time since Cynthia started working. There's a nervous titter of energy around her as she runs up and down each aisle like a bat out of hell. Cynthia debates if she should ask if she needs any help before Imogen rushes to the register.

“This all for you today?” Cynthia asks habitually.

Imogen nods with a quiet sigh. “Hopefully.”

Box cake mix Candles Black sprinkles Oven mitts $14.47

Once she’s left, Cynthia muses over how sweet their relationship must be for Imogen to want to bake a cake for her girlfriend. She herself is an abysmal baker so it makes her yearn for a relationship in the future that’s just as thoughtful. She imagines Laudna walking through their front door, the house smelling of freshly baked goods. Imogen walks out of a side room with the cake decorated, candles lit, and a big smile on her face…

She speaks too soon when Imogen comes back in a little over an hour in a visibly sour mood, black crumbs stuck to her shirt.

Box cake mix Frosting $3.69

Cynthia can’t help herself as Imogen sullenly reaches for her purchase. The words tumble out of her mouth. “Havin’ trouble?”

Imogen startles at the sudden question and Cynthia holds back a grimace. She awkwardly gestures to the items she just bagged.

“Using milk instead of water makes a better box cake. More fat is supposed to improve it or something. At least that’s what my mama always says.”

Imogen frowns and checks over her shoulder toward the fridge section. She looks back at Cynthia for a solid two-count and nods.

Milk Energy drink $4.25

Imogen smiles warmly at her, taking her groceries. “Thanks.”

Cynthia beams. “Of course. Hope it turns out well.”

Imogen doesn’t show up for the rest of the night.

//

Laudna shows up alone one day in a tizzy and Cynthia instantly recognizes something is wrong. It tests her resilience as an impartial convenience store employee to not get involved in customers' business…but Laudna’s frazzled appearance and her very loud speaking over the phone at least paints Cynthia a vague picture.

“Okay, darling, I’ve just arrived. I’m walking to the medicine aisle. Ooh, those snacks Pâté likes are on sale—right, sorry. I am in the medicine aisle. Which one is it?” She pauses. “There’s a yellow label and a blue label.” Another pause. “Are you sure? The yellow label says extra strength.” Pause. “Well, I don’t care if it’s extra money! This is your health! I’m not yelling! Oh, nope. I am. Sorry, sorry. Hold on. I’m grabbing the yellow label.”

Cynthia watches Laudna do that in two more aisles.

“Okay, darling, I’m heading to the register. I’m hanging up. I have to pay.” She frowns. “I'm telling you so you don’t worry.” She looks at the phone then at Cynthia. “She hung up.”

Cynthia bites the inside of her lip to keep from laughing. “Find everything okay?”

“Oh, I hope so.” Laudna’s shoulders droop. “I get so flustered in a crisis that sometimes I forget my own name. Isn’t that just silly? I’m lucky Imogen is always so collected.” She chuckles lightly while nervously pulling at the ends of her hair.

“It’s not silly when you’re worried about someone.”

“You’re so sweet.” Laudna's eyes crinkle with a smile. “You know, I see you working whenever I come in. No matter the time. Do you always work this shift?”

“For the time being, yes.”

“You’re so young,” she muses.

Cynthia hands over the bag to Laudna. “Well, I hope everything is all right with your girlfriend.”

Laudna’s face slowly drops as she processes Cynthia’s words. “Excuse me?”

She scrambles. “Nothing. Nevermind. Here’s your change. Have a good evening.”

Laudna stares at her for a long moment before reaching for her money. Then trails out of the store in a mumbling daze.

Scar cream Pain meds Bandage wrap $25.73

Cynthia resists the urge to run in the back room. Was she wrong? Were they even dating? Were they already married? She’s never seen a ring on Imogen. Or has she? Laudna…definitely had one, right? The shine of a sparkling red ruby ring enters her mind. Fiancé?

//

Imogen enters the store alone the next night but seems perfectly normal when interacting with Cynthia. She even tells her to have a good night as she leaves.

A bag of chips Two energy drinks $6.86

It isn't until Laudna is back again at the end of the week when the fruits of her fuck up unravel. She doesn't enter with Imogen. Instead with someone Cynthia is shocked to see such a sweet woman like Laudna in cahoots with. The thief!

Cynthia watches the pair peruse the aisles aimlessly until

“Fearne!” The yell comes from the back of the shop. Laudna’s arms can be seen flailing over the tops of the shelves. Cynthia strains to listen.

“It’s all right,” Fearne says. “She doesn’t mind.”

Laudna stutters. “You still shouldn’t steal from such a sweet girl. That could be grounds for termination.”

Fearne hums. “She hasn’t been fired yet.”

Finally, the two of them make their way to the front. Fearne pivots toward the door with a familiar flirty wink before Laudna grabs her arm.

“Where are you going?” she admonishes. “We still have to pay.”

“Oh. Oops,” Fearne giggles. “Silly me. It just slipped my mind.”

Cynthia is mostly sure Fearne didn’t forget.

Laudna's eyes don’t quite look at Cynthia as they approach. Fearne seemingly takes notice and saunters up to the register.

“You must see Laudna here a lot, right?”

Cynthia feels her mouth go dry. She realizes she’s never heard Fearne’s voice this close because the other woman never comes to the register. It somehow even further adores her to the enigmatic woman. Cynthia slowly nods. “Sometimes.”

She leans across the counter. Her eyes twinkle with a mischievous sparkle. “So…are you the one who called Imogen her girlfriend?”

“Fearne! Okay!” She pushes her friend aside and drops a bill down on the counter in a fluster. “That's enough of that. I think we’re done here. Yes. Thank you so much, young lady! You have a lovely evening!”

Cynthia forgets to ring them up.

//

At this point, it’s been several weeks since seeing Imogen and Laudna enter the store together. Cynthia is so on edge thinking about the two women's situation that it’s starting to affect her sleep schedule.

The curiosity eats away at her until the next time Imogen walks in. The gentle ding from the door’s bell erupts like a blaring alarm for Cynthia. Her focus zeros in on the unsuspecting woman and tracks her around the store like a hawk. The next time she passes by the front, the word vomit hurls from Cynthia’s lips when it’s simply too much to hold back.

“Did you break up?” She blurts out instead of her usual script.

Imogen’s eyebrows furrow. “Huh?”

“Your girlfriend—uhh, or maybe fiancé?” She says it like a question and Imogen stares at her like she’s grown two heads. “Laud—the one woman you’re always here with. The spooky one?” Silence. She should really shut up. “Aren’t you together?”

The other woman goes deathly still. “No…”

Oh.

Cynthia feels the embarrassing red-hot heat flooding her cheeks. “Sorry. I thought you were. It was wrong of me to assume.”

A muscle in Imogen’s cheek tightens. Her mouth opens and closes several times before she asks, “Why would you think we were together?” Her voice is stony. “Did she say somethin’?”

“What?” She doesn’t sound accusatory or angry so Cynthia is confident she hasn’t completely insulted this woman. The word vomit continues. “No. It’s not that. I mean I did mention to her that you were her girlfriend and she never really denied it. I thought—I honestly didn’t think you were dating at first. But after a while it was hard to ignore when the two of you seemed so…” She trails off when noticing how pale Imogen has gotten.

“So?”

“In love?” Cynthia finishes lamely. Her cheeks burn with mortification.

She makes a noise somewhere between an acknowledgment and a whimper.

It’s all Cynthia gets before she turns and makes a beeline toward the back. She stands in front of the liquor aisle for an exorbitant amount of time. Cynthia has half a mind to ask if she’s all right but cowardice of saying the wrong thing again stops her. Finally, she makes a selection and Cynthia has to struggle to not cringe as she rings her up. No pleasantries are exchanged.

Box wine $8.99

She comes in the next day.

Cynthia wants to crawl into a hole.

Box wine Tissues Pain meds $14.68

And the next.

Cynthia considers quitting just to stave off the unparalleled embarrassment and shame coursing through her.

Two bottles of wine Decongestant Pint of ice cream Effervescent tablets $36.87

She never sees her again.

Mainly because Cynthia quits her job at Faramore's soon after. She’s accepted into an apprenticeship across town and can’t justify the commute anymore.

She doesn’t tell her regulars because that seems like a silly thing to do. It’s not like she talks to any of them or knows them beyond the stories she makes up in her head by their brief interactions. It’s strange when she realizes she will miss them. There’s a melancholic kind of insight she garners—missing someone you don’t really know.

Months later Cynthia finds herself in the neighborhood after an event takes her back across town. The curiosity hits her a bit too hard and soon enough she finds herself back at her old store. It’s like walking into a time capsule. She doesn’t feel any claim to the shop as it’s one of many and she’s gone to others in the franchise but it still feels strangely familiar as the bell dings when she enters.

The guy at the register is more apathetic than she cares to comment on. He rings up her items without so much as a greeting.

Gummy bears Bottle of water $4.33

On her way out, the door whooshes open and the bell dings softly. As if in slow motion, in walks Laudna, a big smile on her face, arm around a giggling Imogen’s shoulders, whose own arm is securely wrapped around Laudna’s waist. Laudna leans her head down to kiss the top of Imogen’s head. Then Imogen smoothly turns her face upward and they share a chaste kiss without breaking their stride. They don’t notice Cynthia walk past them.

Maybe Cynthia sheds a single tear later that night when she thinks about them or maybe it's just this very emotional movie she’s watching about a horse that defies all the odds in the end.

[blogthebooklover]

30 Things I Learned As An Adult

In honor of me turning 30 in January, I’ve decided to write out a list of 30 things I learned as an adult.  Now, some of these worked for me through trial and error, while others did not.

1. Self Care Is Important

I cannot stress this enough.  We all need to practice self care, to take time for ourselves.  It takes baby steps to find a good self-care routine, and there’s plenty of online resources to find one to your tastes.  Remember it is all about trial and error, and don’t worry about perfecting it right away.  Research some different self care routines online as a starting point.

2. Read Books, Not Fanfiction

Okay, don’t get me wrong, I do love reading some good ole fanfiction, and current events.  However, definitely pick up a book once in a while.  Whether it’s a graphic novel, comics, manga, please develop a reading habit.  It definitely helped me out a lot as a former college dropout, there are reading lists on sites like Goodreads, here on Tumblr, even colleges have lists what books students are required to read.  And it does help with expanding your knowledge and vocabulary.  As I’ve previously said, I’m a former college dropout who’s currently back in school, however, developing a healthy reading habit is what kept me grounded.  If you need a starting point, I recommend reading a fiction book, preferably in the SciFi/Fantasy genre; or reread a book from your childhood.  Also, PLEASE GET A LIBRARY CARD!  You’ll definitely be saving a lot of money, and we need to support our public libraries now more than ever.

3. Say “No” More Often

If you don’t feel comfortable going out, or if your manager calls and asks to cover a shift, just say “no.”  Remember, you have the power to set boundaries, especially with family, friends, and work.  This correlates to number 1 on my list, self care is super important, and you cannot put your health at risk for anyone.  I’m going to repeat that last part: SELF CARE IS SUPER IMPORTANT, AND YOU CANNOT PUT YOUR HEALTH AT RISK FOR ANYONE!

4. Register To Vote, And Vote In Every Election

With politics being so polarized and divisive in the past decade, and the upcoming 2024 US Presidential Election, please register to vote.  And voter suppression has been very rampant in the past two, arguably three, decades.  To anyone about to turn 18 here in the US, please register to vote ASAP!  And vote in every goddamn election, both national and local.  I seriously cannot stress this enough.

5. Eat Healthy, No Seriously

I love some fast food once in a while now, however, please take some time to learn about healthy eating.  It will catch up with you in the future, and our US healthcare system is already fucked as all hell.  I know the rising costs of everything, including food, is insane right now; but please keep informed about how to prepare good healthy food.

6. Take Breaks From Current Events, Social Media, and the Internet

This also correlates with number one.  While it is very important to stay informed with what is happening in the world/country of origin; especially with the US Presidential Election year.  Remember, it’s okay to take breaks from reading too much news, and scrolling through social media feeds.  It really does have an effect on your mental health, and unfortunately too many people tend to fall down the conspiracy theory rabbit hole on all sides of the political spectrum.  To the teenagers and young adults, take breaks and focus on your mental health and well-being.  To the adults, read the previous sentence.  With everything so polarizing, take care of yourself first.  

7. High School Friends DO NOT LAST!

My friends from high school and early college years were definitely the “ride and die” type of  friends, metaphorically speaking.  If you have that one friend who was/is the “give the shirt off their back” type, check in on them once in a while.  However, with the former, just move on.  The friends I had in high school definitely had a lot of childhood trauma, and in one aspect, I’m glad that they were honest about it; it was/is a way to heal.  However, any “friend” who just doesn’t want to better themselves and use you for any convenience, DUMP THEM AND CUT OFF ALL CONTACT!  Remember just as you set boundaries with your toxic family members, and even for your job, you should do the same with friends.

8. Change Jobs, ASAP!

This is a very important one.  I didn’t really have a job as a teenager, I wanted to enjoy being a kid for a little longer, however, I did have an occasional babysitting job.  At 23 years old, I got a job at a fast food place.  While I do appreciate part of the experience, like how to use the “customer service” voice, however, any red flags that pop up in your head, change jobs, ASAP!  It was toxic, too political (for some weird reason) and a lot of drama (and not from the teenagers).  The grocery store I work at now does have its busy times, however, it’s much more calmer, and I don’t see too many “Karen” types. 

9. Declutter More Often

This is also a definite must as you get older.  Whatever you don’t need anymore, donate them.  Whatever is completely broken, throw it away!  Whatever it is that is in good condition, sell it or maybe give it to someone as a birthday/holiday present.  Any old makeup, throw it away!  It’ll help reduce the amount of clutter and mess.  If you need a starting point, I suggest the KonMari method.  It really did help me out a lot.

10.  Use A Planner

This is a life-and-time saver.  Write down any appointments, cleaning days, paydays, bill charges, etc.; into a physical planner.  If you’re in college, please use one!  And write down any assignments to work on/turn in BEFORE the deadline.  Also, anything important, put into your calendar app on your phone and laptop as a reminder.

11.  Have A Skin Care Routine

Okay, I know having a skin care routine isn’t for everyone, and we all have different reactions to skin care products; however, don’t be afraid to experiment with a good skin care routine.  In my early teen years, I used Proactiv skin care for my acne, and it helped out a lot.  Remember: cleanse, tone, any serum of your choice, and moisturize.  This also helps out if you don’t feel like jumping into the shower.  Also, use sunscreen, seriously.

12.  Don’t Get Married, Until You’re Ready

This is coming from someone who is single, lol.  If you plan on getting married to your romantic partner, I’m proud of you! Marriage is about communication, being honest, and doing equal amount of work (finances, household chores, etc.)  Save money if you’re planning for a wedding, or go to your local courthouse to get a marriage license if you don’t want the big, fancy reception.  

13.  Don’t Have Kids, Until You’re Ready

Again, this is coming from someone who is single and childless, lol.  Having kids is a lot of work: physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.  Not everyone is capable of being a parent, and I have read PLENTY of posts on here and other websites about toxic parents/parenting styles.  Take time and think about if you’re ready to become a parent.

14.  Learn How To Budget Your Money

This is for anyone of any age out there.  Please learn how to budget your spending.  Look for stuff on sale or clearance, or cut back on certain types of spending. I know most people have no idea where to start, but there is! There’s some great websites and YouTube channels on how to budget your money. Another great tool to use are spreadsheets like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. I use a Google Sheet template to help track my spending and budget my finances. Also, if you have gift cards from your birthday/holidays/etc; definitely use them, you won't be breaking your bank account :). Also, definitely have some paper cash in your wallet for emergency use.     

15.  Open A Savings/Emergency Funds Account, ASAP!

This is a huge one to have as an adult, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Anything left over from paying the bills, from a side hustle, or from your tax returns, put that into savings.  Certain banks will also have the option of creating “financial goals” in savings accounts; so I highly recommend using that as well.  This also correlates with number 14.  If you’re interested, open two or three savings accounts, the last one should only be for emergency funds.

16.  Get A Physical Hobby, AKA Exercise!

It doesn’t matter what type of exercise you do, please do it!  And for anyone who is physically disabled, there are modified options provided on YouTube.  We do lose certain motor functions as we age, so definitely pick an exercise that’s right for you, as they say. Even if it's just going outside for a walk for 30 minutes, please do some type of exercise.   

17.  Learn How To Meal Prep

It doesn’t have to be for every meal of every day, pick a meal you want to make and prepare ahead of time.  And prepare that meal the day before, so it will be on hand when you leave your house. There are some great videos on YouTube, and some ideas from Pinterest if you need a starting point.

18.  If You’re Able To, Go To The Dentist!

Seriously though, try and go for a checkup/teeth cleaning.  You’re only given one set of teeth after all your baby teeth fall out, and you need to take good care of them.  If you’re able to, or live near to one, local colleges have free cleanings through their dental training programs.   

19.  If Your Job Offers a 401K, GET ON IT NOW!

My old job at a fast food restaurant didn’t have retirement benefits, but my current grocery store job does.  I jumped on it right away, even if it’s not the job I want right now.  And it’s a good starting point to have some money saved up for retirement. If you leave the job that has a 401k, you can do what's called a rollover. This will put the money that was set into the first retirement fund into another one; you can do this with your bank or if your new job has a 401k.

20.  If You Don’t Have Health Insurance, Sign Up With The State, or Through Your Job.

In my experience, I have insurance through the state at the moment.  If your job offers health insurance as well, jump on it right away, even if it’s not the job you want, it’ll be a starting point that correlates with number 19.

21.  It’s Okay To Not Go To College

This is coming from someone who was a college dropout at 19, and currently back in school.  If you don’t feel ready to go to college, that’s okay too.  College is very expensive, especially here in the US, and not everyone can get a scholarship, even if they did apply for a lot of them.  Maybe get a part-time job or two (for some income), explore some hobbies you enjoy, and take some time to think about some goals.     

22. If You’re In College, It’s Okay To Stay At Home

Again, coming from a former college dropout, I stayed at home while attending a nearby community college in another state.  However, out-of-state tuition and housing is also very expensive.  If you have a good relationship with your parents, and if you’re going to school in-state, talk to them about staying home while going to school.  If you don’t, then talk to a trusted friend or family member about getting an apartment together that isn’t on-site housing while you’re attending school.

23. Watch Non-English Language Movies

If you’re a movie lover like me, take some time to watch some foreign language films once in a while; and I know we anime fans do, lol.  To be honest, it does get very boring watching English language films all the time, whether from the States, England, or Canada.  Watching foreign language movies will definitely help you to understand the world a lot better, if you don’t have the means for traveling yet; and they will help you to understand that no matter where we live, we all have similar issues, hopes, dreams, etc.  If you need a starting point, I recommend any of the Studio Ghibli movies, I would start with Kiki’s Delivery Service; or Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth.  

24. SET BOUNDARIES

Remember: toxic family members and friends are not worth it.  You are worthy and valid for love and respect.  This correlates to number 7.  This is also very useful in the workplace.  

25. Express Yourself Through Fashion

Like everyone else, I feel most comfortable in jeans and a t-shirt myself; however sometimes I like to dress up just for fun, or to build up my self esteem and image.  This also helps when learning to pair an accessory with an outfit.  Play around with different color palettes and clothing styles, and find the one you feel the most “you.”  For example, I’ve always looked my best in jewel tones and a cooler color palette.  Read some fashion articles or watch some YouTube videos about how to pick out an outfit.

26. It Is Not Selfish To Prioritize Yourself

This correlates with number 3.  I have noticed it’s mostly a Western/American/Christian culture norm, we’re always told to take care of others before taking care of ourselves; or we’re selfish for prioritizing ourselves over others. It is not selfish, it is part of self care. Again, this is tied in with number 24.

27.   Failing and Making Mistakes Is Part of Growing

There is so much societal pressure on trying to be successful in life and work, especially in the Western/American hemisphere. However, making mistakes and failing at something is part of growing, and learning as an individual.

28. It's Okay to Not Have a Label to Define Yourself

Hear me out. I understand the use of labels in society and culture in general; everyone wants to belong somewhere and feel accepted. However, it is okay to not have a label to define who you are, and who you want/choose to be. Take all the time you need to figure out what's best for you. And sometimes people don't realize a label will fit them until they are much older in life. Or they couldn't at the time.

29. Don't Compare, You'll Get There

We are human, and we all have the tendency to compare ourselves to others. Unfortunately, this doesn't end after high school and college. And that needs to seriously change, especially in the Western/American hemisphere. Simply writing down "don't compare, you'll get there" is a great reminder to have for yourself. Everyone learns and grows at their own pace.

30. It Really Is The Little Things That Keep Us Going

When life seems to get too hard, it really is the little things that keep us going. Whether it is something as simple as someone holding a door open for you, or someone complimenting* you on your outfit or your work ethic; those moments are the ones that matter the most. Remember those moments, hold on to them.

[pipsipey17]

love and literature | chapter 3: bad kind of butterflies.

professor!natasha romanoff x college student!reader

series masterlist | main masterlist

summary: some unexpected news from your sister.

contains: just some tension ig

previous chapter | next chapter

It has already been a month since you have been living with Natasha on the same roof and a lot of adjustments have been made, not only at home but also at school. Some of them were fine but the rest of them annoyed the hell out of you.

You hate her that was certain, but you have been feeling things for her whenever the two of you had interactions with each other. Whether they were good or bad. You knew it was wrong and weird but you fantasized about kissing her

“You coming Y/N?” Wanda asked as you were walking to your next class along with Pietro, Peter and Carol.

Pietro is Wanda’s twin brother and you have the same classes with him in almost every single subject except for Russian Literature that’s why you have been friends with him too.

Well for Peter, you and him have been lab partners since freshman year and he has been a huge help for you when it came to Science. He is definitely a Science geek but he means well.

As for Carol, apparently has had a thing for you since you started playing for the volleyball team of the university. She’s a beautiful blonde, has a bold yet great personality and is even the captain of the cheerleading team.

You decided to give it a shot, even though you already told her that you don’t take relationships that seriously. She agreed saying that she’s willing to risk it and that she might even change that for you. And now, you have just been letting the relationship take its course and see where it will take you.

“You know I can’t Wanda, ever since Natasha moved in I haven’t been able to go out after school because I apparently have to ride home with her.” You replied with a hint of disappointment and annoyance in your voice.

This was one of the adjustments that annoyed you, since Natasha brings her car to school everyday, your sister told you that you can just ride home with her. Except for the days that you have student council work to do or you have volleyball training cause you go home later than usual. You couldn’t even stay in one room together without you feeling a bit angry or annoyed at her, let alone a car ride home with her even though it’s only a 30 minute car ride.

“Oh come on baby, it’s the weekend tomorrow, why don’t you text your sister that you’re going out later and see how that goes.” Carol said as she placed her arm around your waist.

Wanda rubbed her temple and said, “I swear, Professor Romanoff isn’t even your sister and yet she acts like one more than Maria.”

“She’s more like a babysitter in my opinion.” Pietro snickered, making Wanda roll her eyes at her twin brother.

You started typing your text message to Maria and a few seconds later you hit send. Your sister immediately read the text message and replied with, “Alright, just don’t be home too late.”

“So?” Wanda asked as she heard the sound from your phone.

“She said yes.” You replied, making Wanda squeal with joy.

“Hell yeah! We’re getting drunk tonight.” Peter cheered.

~~~

You were now at the parking lot of the school on your way to find Natasha, a few moments later you finally saw Natasha and she was leaning against her car with a cigarette in hand, she was also already looking in your direction.

“Isn’t this a non-smoking area?” You asked with your arms crossed.

Natasha hummed, “Yes, but I am not a student like you.” She quipped.

You wanted to roll your eyes so badly at her response but you stopped yourself, “I’m not riding home with you today, I’ve got plans.” You said as you looked directly at her emerald green eyes.

“And by plans you mean?” She asked with her brow raised and a drag from her cigarette.

“I’m just going out with my friends.” You simply replied.

Natasha looked behind you and saw that Carol was waiting by the light post a few meters away from the both of you. “Right, friends.” she said with obvious sarcasm in her voice. She clicked her tongue and asked, “Does Maria know about this?”

“She does,” You replied and showed her your conversation with Maria earlier.

It wasn’t what she meant, she wanted to know if Maria knew about you dating the cheerleader but she would just ask you about that some other time.

“Fine, I’ll see you later.” She lastly said before she dropped her cigarette onto the ground and stepped on it, she then went into her car and drove off.

“Shall we go?” You suddenly heard Carol ask as she held your hand.

You nodded and said, “Yeah, let’s go and have some fun.”

~~~

A few drinks later, you decided to call it a night, it was getting late and you didn’t want an earful from your sister at an ungodly hour.

But what you didn’t expect was seeing a very familiar car waiting by the entrance. The window rolled down and you saw the very least person you wanted to see, Natasha.

“I didn’t ask for a chauffeur.” You said with annoyance.

“Your sister asked me to pick you up. She has an emergency at work if that's why you're wondering I'm the one picking you up instead of your sister.” Natasha plainly said to you with her piercing eyes almost as if she's going to eat you whole.

You were a bit scared with how she's looking at you but your anger and annoyance were dominating, “I'm not riding with you, I'm clearly not drunk so I don't need someone to bring me home. Plus, I'm going to walk Carol to her dorm.”

If Natasha was keeping her composure earlier, she’s sure as hell isn't now after you mentioned that girl.

What she did next is something you didn't expect at all, she got out of her car and grabbed both of your arms, placed them on your back then pushed you onto the wall and twisted one of your arms making you hiss and curse in pain.

“Ow! S-stop that!” you yelped.

Natasha leaned on your ear and whispered, “I'm going to stop once you step inside the car. So, I'll tell you this one more time, get. in.”

The way her voice husked in your ear definitely made you feel something but you still weren't going to easily fold, “Like hell I will.” you said making Natasha twisting your arm more making you scream in pain this time. After a few moments you finally gave up, “A-Alright, I-I'll get in.” you said, making Natasha chuckle and let go of your wrist, “Good, thought we're going to be here all night.”

Natasha then strutted back to her car as you continued to rub your wrist in pain later seeing a slight bruise forming as you entered the car.

“That's gonna teach you to listen to me, Y/N. I may be living rent free in your household but that doesn't mean you're allowed to disrespect me once we're outside campus.” Natasha said as she started to drive away.

You rolled your eyes and sat silent in your seat, until your phone rang, the caller ID revealing that your girlfriend was calling. "Hey babe. Yeah sorry, apparently, my sister told Natasha to pick me up." you heard Natasha click her tongue.

"I'll make it up to you tomorrow, I promise. Alright. Bye." you said then ended the call.

"Didn't say the 'L' word?" Natasha suddenly asked.

You scoffed, "No, we're not seriously dating. There's no need for that."

"Ah, so it's more on just sex then?" Natasha asked with a smirk on her face.

"What? N-no I mean… kind of, I mean…" you groan in frustration, "You know what, it's none of your business."

"Fine, I already got a clue anyway just from the answer alone." Natasha replied, her smirk not leaving her face.

"Whatever." you said while rolling your eyes.

Natasha suddenly grabbed your thigh and dug her nails into it making you hiss in pain, "Roll your eyes at me one more time, you're going to get it." she said as she continued driving and digging her nails into your thigh.

What she said and did made you remain still and silent in your seat, thankfully, you were already near your home.

Once you arrived, you immediately left the car and went inside to your bedroom, laying face planted onto the mattress and finally succumbed to sleep.

~~~

"I'm going on a business trip for a few weeks," Maria said as you ate breakfast.

"What? You're leaving me here?" You said in shock and disbelief.

"I wish you could come with me but you have school and plus, you have Natasha to stay here with you."

That was the issue, you didn't want to be left alone together with the woman you certainly despised with your whole being.

"When are you leaving?" Natasha asked as she got up from her seat and placed her dishes on the sink.

"Tonight, so that's why I won't be here once you guys get back." Maria replied as she also got up and placed her dishes on the sink.

You lastly got up and gathered all your dishes and placed them in the dishwasher. After that, you hugged your sister and said, "Take care big sis."

She hugged you back and replied, "Of course I will. I love you little sis."

You said I love you back and Natasha was just watching the whole scene unfold in front of her, it always made her smile when she would see you let all your guard down around your sister, it just meant that you really felt safe around her.

It reminded her of her sister, Yelena. Who is busy traveling the world and living her best life, making up for the lost time she had before because of their past.

Maria released her embrace. “Go wait for Natasha in her car, I have to talk to her about something first.” she said and you nodded in response then left the room with Natasha's car keys in hand.

Once they heard the door close, Maria took a deep breath and spoke, “You can… take care of her for me right? She tends to be reckless sometimes and I just want to make sure she's not going to be in some trouble while I'm gone.”

“You can count on me Maria, I mean, I already got a taste of that when I picked her up last night.”

What Natasha said made Maria raise a brow at her, “Really? What did she do?”

“She refused to get in the car with me, but it's fine, I managed.” Natasha replied with a slight smirk on her face.

“I see, well… I hope you won't experience more of that in the next few days. Well, anyway, you guys got to go, it's getting a bit late.” Maria lastly said before they hugged and Natasha left the kitchen.

Starting tonight, you'll be left with the woman you hate but at the same time feel certain things for. You're nervous but excited even to see what will happen the next few days of the two of you living together without your sister.

Natasha got in her car and started the engine. But before she starts to drive she looked you in the eyes and said, “Look, I know you don't like me and I can't blame you for that but we'll be living together for a few weeks and I want us to be friends even just for the time being for the sake of your sister.”

A smirk formed on your face, “Alright, if that's what you want then let's be friends.” you simply replied and Natasha did a simple nod in respone and started to drive you both to school.

Let the games begin.

[eddiexmunsonlover]

One Step Away From You (Chapter 2)

ExBestFriend!Eddie Munson x PlusSize!Fem!Reader

Follow my new blog for future chapters & fics @cherryxhaze

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Chapter Summary: It's your first day back at Hawkins High. Your day goes as expected, until you see the face of your ex-best friend, Eddie Munson, at a lunch table with your younger friends. WC: 5.7k Warnings: MDNI. Explicit language used. Descriptions of anxiety, mentions of depression. Notes: I've been dying to post this chapter. I've been waiting to post chapters until I have the next one finished, and it's been harder than expected to not just post them right away. This chapter features time spent with the younger kids, and Steve and Robin, as well as a little flashback. I hope you guys enjoy!

Monday, September 16th, 1985

Your eyes slowly open, taking in the dawn sky peeking through your curtains as the sun begins to rise. Your eyes shift to the clock by your bed, 5 minutes before your alarm goes off. Yawning, your hand falls to rest on your cat Henny, peacefully sleeping against your chest. You smile as you gently pet his soft black fur, enjoying the few moments of peace before you have to get ready. Moments of peace, soon interrupted by anxious thoughts about your first day back at Hawkins High. The repetitive feeling of your cat’s fur against your hand helps to keep your thoughts from spiraling too much. That is until the sudden, loud blaring of your alarm caused him to sprint off the bed in a flash. You snort out a laugh as you quickly turn off your alarm.

Stretching out all your limbs, you climb out of bed with a sigh and head to the bathroom to start your morning routine. You spend a few minutes browsing your wardrobe, deciding on what to wear for your first day outfit. Finally deciding on a pair of your favorite acid wash jeans that hug your curves, a Metallica Ride the Lightning shirt, and your trusty, worn black converse hi-tops. You turn to your vanity, beginning your usual hair and make-up routine. You kept your hair in its natural form, only adding some hairspray to your roots to add some volume. Followed by a smokey eye, winged eyeliner, mascara, and some chapstick. You grab your bag, keys, and a pack of pop-tarts, giving Henny a kiss on his head before heading out the door. 

You start your truck, turning the dial of the radio until you hear the familiar sounds of Hall & Oates. You light a menthol cigarette, a habit picked up from your parents and the stress of the last few years, before backing out of your driveway. You take note of the same unfamiliar van in Uncle Wayne’s driveway as you pull out of the trailer park. As you drive down the road, singing along to Out of Touch, you feel that familiar anxious knot start to form in your stomach as you get closer to the school.

A knot that only grows when you pull into Hawkins High’s parking lot, noting all the cars and students already there. You pull into an open space in the back and park your truck, sighing as you finish your cigarette, eyes roaming among the students lingering around their cars. Starting at a new school was never easy, but starting at a new school after the year had already started was worse. Today marked the 3rd week of the school year. You hope the year was still fresh enough that no one would pay particular attention to a newer face. Who were you kidding, in a town as small as Hawkins? Of course they would notice. You groan before deciding, Fuck it, let’s get this over with. You grab your bag and begin walking toward the school entrance, not letting your eyes linger away from the main doors to meet the ones of your fellow students.

After 3 years, the halls of Hawkins High are still familiar to you, finding your way to the principal’s office easily. You enter, eyes falling onto a middle-aged woman, clad in all purple clothing and accessories as you approach her desk. 

“Hi, uhm-” you cleared your throat, prompting her eyes to lift to meet yours. “It’s my first day. My mom already took care of the paperwork. I’m here to get my locker and class schedule.” You notice the way her eyes look you over, squinting scrutinizingly in the process.

“Name?” she asks, voice monotone as she reaches for a folder of papers in the desk drawer. You give your name, watching as she shuffles through them. Your eyes briefly look around, landing on the door to the Principal’s office. You can’t help rolling your eyes as you notice the plaque on the door, Principal Higgins. Can’t wait to deal with that prick again. You look back to the receptionist as she wordlessly hands over 2 papers with your locker information and your class schedule. Her eyes never look back up to you as she quickly resumes her previous task. Your body shifts awkwardly. 

“Uh, thank you. Have a good one” you politely offer as you turn to leave. Rolling your eyes and muttering “Rude bitch” as you re-enter the halls and head to your first class.

Your first few classes of the day go as expected. Much to your dismay, your presence had caught the eyes and attention of a few of your peers. If it wasn’t for the fact that your presence in their classes is new, your looks would be grabbing their attention regardless. You did your best to be as unbothered as you could, ignoring their gazes and whispers as you focused on the lectures or doodling in your notebook. As you sit in your last class before lunch, you can’t help but feel frustrated at your predicament.

Moving back to Virginia in 10th grade had fucked everything up for you. To say you were devastated after the move is an understatement. You struggled to adjust; switching schools half-way through the school year, leaving behind Eddie, your Dad, and your parents' crumbled marriage. You fell into a depression and didn’t attempt to make new friends or try to pass your classes. By the end of your 10th grade year you’d failed most of your classes, causing you to be held back and having to redo the year over again. If your family had never fallen apart and you’d never moved, you would’ve graduated this past May. 

There’s no point in lingering on it now, it’s done. The best thing you could do now is stay on top of your schoolwork, graduate next May and hopefully go off to college in the Fall to start the rest of your life.

Your eyes shoot up from your notebook as the bell rings, dragging you out of your thoughts. You collect your things, following your peers into the quickly crowding halls. You originally planned to spend your lunch period in the library, setting up your school planner and figuring out assignments you already needed to catch up on. However, your young friend Mike Wheeler on the other hand, insisted that you come and sit with the boys for lunch when you’d called and let them know you were back in Hawkins. 

~

The cafeteria buzzes with its usual chatter, as does the Hellfire table. Eddie, Gareth, Jeff, and Grant discuss the latest DnD campaign, begging Eddie for details of the upcoming one this Friday. Eddie laughs bashfully, denying their requests. Until he notices the newer, younger members of Hellfire completely oblivious to their conversation, and thoroughly engaged in their own. Eddie attempts to filter out the whines of the older members.

“I’m so happy she’s back, I can’t believe it.” Dustin remarks.

“I know! You told her to come sit with us right?” Lucas directs at Mike, who eagerly nods his head in response.

“Yeah, has anyone seen her yet?”

The other two boys shake their heads.

“I could’ve sworn I saw her on my way to 3rd period but I wasn’t sure” Dustin adds.

“Man. It’s nice we’ll actually get to go to school together, at least for this year.” Lucas says, referencing the few years you have on them.

It’s a rapid fire conversation Eddie can barely hear. Just when he’s about to interrupt and ask who the hell they’re talking about,

“Oh wait, there she is!”

Eddie’s eyes follow to where the younger boys’ eyes and small waves are directed toward, eyes landing on you.

Eddie’s movements freeze, breath hitching in his throat as he watches you. It’s like everything moves in slow motion. Your eyes quickly scan the cafeteria, uncertainty sketched across your face. Until your eyes catch the younger boys, and a breathtaking smile spreads across your face that knocks the air right out of his goddamn lungs. You giggle softly as you begin to walk towards them. And all Eddie can do is fucking stare. 

He has to force himself to blink multiple times to make sure he’s not dreaming. It’s really you. What the fuck, it’s you?? He could only watch in disbelief, brain short circuiting. In the nearly 3 years that had passed, you really didn’t look much different at all. You did seem more confident, comfortable in yourself. Your features had matured a bit more too, but you still had that same baby face; pink, chubby cheeks and soft jawline. Only now your hair is a few shades lighter and you’re sporting a nose ring.  Your body had filled out more too, the same body Eddie had practically gawked over seen from his bedroom window yesterday. Now that he has a view from the front, he can’t stop his eyes from fully looking you over. From your gorgeous face, to the faint outline of your plush stomach through your Metallica shirt, to your thick thighs that rubbed against each other as you walked. Eddie was still frozen in place as you finally approach the table, eyes not having met his yet. 

You greet the younger boys with a smile, 

“Hey buds” you exclaim happily. Your arms wrap around Mike and Lucas, giving them both a half hug before rounding the other side of the table to Dustin, ruffling his hair playfully. 

“How’s freshman year treating y’all?” You ask genuinely. You can’t deny that you had worried a bit for them. Freshman year can be rough, especially for a ‘freak’.

“Good”

“Eh”

“Not so bad” Mike shrugs, “the club has helped.” His head gestures to the other, older boys at the rest of the table. 

Your eyes follow, noting the other boys’ eyes are already on you, watching in subtle curiosity. Your eyes land on the boy sitting at the head of the table. Hair long, dark, and wild. An unreadable expression on his face, dark brown eyes boring into yours. 

Eddie. Fuckkkk. 

Your eyes widen slightly, smile faltering as you try to swallow the lump that just lodged itself in your throat. You try your best to put on a genuine smile, only partially effective as an awkward half smile tugs at your lips. 

“Hey, Eddie” you offer with a small nod.

His mind finally snaps out of its daze, reality and resentment setting in. He coughs lightly, clearing his throat as his features and gaze harden.

“Y/N” he offers, voice cold as he snatches his gaze from yours. He resumes eating his pretzels, as if your very presence didn’t just shatter his world as he knew it. 

“You guys know each other?” Lucas asks curiously.

Dustin turns his head to look up at you behind him, eyes widening.

“Wait… Eddie? As in THE Eddie… that taught you DnD?” Dustin asks.

You give him a tight lipped smile as you nod, 

“The one and only.”

You begin to fidget on your feet uncomfortably, stomach turning. 

“I can’t believe I didn’t connect the dots until now.” Dustin breathes out slowly.

“Whoa… you should totally join and play with us!” Mike quickly adds.

Abort mission. Abort mission. Your thoughts scream at you. 

“Oh, that’s alright.” You dismiss him quickly with a smile and small wave of your hand, “Anyway, I just came by to say ‘Hi’ to you guys real quick. I gotta get going.”

You’re greeted with a chorus of groans from the younger boys. You offer a small nod and tight-lipped smile to the older boys. Your eyes briefly glance at Eddie, whose eyes haven’t left his pretzels since first leaving yours. You tell the younger boys you’ll see them later as you begin to walk off towards the exit. Finally releasing a breath you didn’t realize you were holding. A breath that’s quickly catching in your throat again as you hear fast footsteps approaching from behind you and feel a hand on your shoulder. You relax as you turn and see Dustin’s face.

“Hey, wait. So reaalllly quick. Lucas and Mike wanted me to ask if you wouldn’t mind giving us a ride home after school?” 

“Seriously man?” You let out a genuine laugh, caught off guard.

“Oh, come onnn. You remember how much it sucks to ride the bus! Pretty pretty please??” Dustin asks, putting on the best puppy eyes he can manage. You roll your eyes and groan playfully at him.

“Fine, but whoever gets to my truck first gets to sit in the cab with me, the last 2 are stuck in the truck bed” you add. 

If you’re gonna be stuck giving them a ride, you’d at least get some entertainment out of watching them race for the best seat. Dustin salutes you before scurrying back to the Hellfire table as you turn and walk out of the cafeteria as quickly as your legs can take you.

Gareth, Jeff, and Grant share curious, confused, but knowing glances at each other and Eddie. Picking up on the undeniable tension in the air between him and this girl. Feeling their eyes on him, and before Gareth can even open his mouth, Eddie’s hand shoots up to cut him off.

“Don’t.” 

They’d drop it for now, but Eddie knew it was only a matter of time before it was brought up, whether by them or the newer members whom you seemed to know so well. 

~

Shitshitshit! Your thoughts rapidly fly through your head as you hightail it to the library to spend the remainder of your lunch. Eddie’s was the last face you expected to see at school, in Hawkins. Let alone sitting at a table, in a DnD club with your young friends. What the hell is he still doing here anyway? Remember that comforting, hopeful feeling you had? It was long gone now, dissipating at the sight of your old best friend. Crumbling into ashes as your eyes met his, his face even more beautiful than you remembered… and hardened as he saw you. 

You were so confused. Last you knew of Eddie was that he had hooked up with some girl who worked for a record company in LA, recording a demo tape for a record deal back in Spring 84’. At least that’s what you and Eddie’s friend from the trailer park and Corroded Coffin's drummer, Ronnie had relayed to you over the phone. You’d asked her not to give you any more updates about him after that, the news making your stomach drop. When she went off to NYU later that year, you figured the band had just replaced her with a new drummer.

You enter the library and head towards an old spot of yours, a table in the back tucked between bookshelves rarely perused by your peers. Your head falls into your hands as you plop down into a chair, sighing deeply as you attempt to calm your thoughts and breathing. All those thoughts and feelings about Eddie you’d tried to bury over the last few years were now clawing their way out of the grave and overtaking your mind. 

You feebly try to push them down again. You look at the lunch you had packed for yourself. Knowing you couldn’t stomach it right now, you pull out your planner and syllabi from your earlier classes. It only leads to your thoughts of Eddie and your school work hashing it out in your head for your undivided attention. You sigh again, already knowing which will be the winner. Leaning back in your chair, you think about how exactly you got here. How the best friend you’ve ever had could barely make any eye contact with you, and the sight of him made you have a near panic attack.

~

It had been a cloudy day in early December 1982, when you dragged your feet across the road to the Munson trailer. Sprinkles of rain began to fall, soaking into your hair as you dreaded breaking the news to your best friend. You willed away the tears that were already building in your eyes before you could even step onto Uncle Wayne’s porch. A few moments after your weak knocks on the door, it opened to reveal your best friend. His signature cheeky smile plastered on his face, quickly slipping away when he noted the somber look on yours.

“Hey, hey. What’s wrong?” He asked softly, hand reaching for your arm as he stepped out the trailer to join you on the porch. You couldn’t look him in the eyes, you knew as soon as you did you wouldn’t be able to stop the waterfall. 

“I’m leaving, Eddie…” you mutter, voice soft and cracking. 

“Leaving? W-What do you mean?” Eddie asks, confusion seeping through his voice and features. You gulp, trying to calm yourself before you continue. “Is it your dad? Is he giving you guys problems? I told you, you can come to me and Wayne if he-”

“No-No. He’s in the tank for a DUI right now a-and Mom thinks… it’s perfect timing to just get away, put some distance…” you manage to get out. You take a deep breath before willing yourself to look up and finally meet his eyes. “We’re moving back to Virginia.” 

Your eyes search his as yours begin to well with tears. Finally saying the words to him made it real, definite, final. He sighs deeply, a small frown pulling at his lips.

“C’mere…” He whispers, pulling you into his chest as his arms wrap around and squeeze you tightly. His gesture causes your tears to fall freely. You almost feel bad that you’re no doubt soaking his shirt and leaving behind an embarrassing wet spot, but the feeling of his arms around you and the sad, anxious thoughts flying through your mind distract you from it.

“It’s gonna be okay” he says reassuringly, a hand softly rubbing up and down your back.

After a minute he pulls back, hands holding both of your arms as he looks at you with a small smile.

“They have phones back in Virginia, right?” he asks, joking lightly. Anything to lessen the frown and tears streaking your cheeks. You smirk softly in response, nodding your head as you wipe your tears. “Then it’ll be okay. We’ll call a-and talk about school, new records, DnD campaigns… that dick Higgins” A brief, wet laugh escapes your mouth at his words. 

“all the things we talk about now. I promise.” He finishes, moving one of his hands from your arm to extend his pinky finger out to you. A long playful gesture you’ve done since meeting in 4th grade. You take a moment to let his words and optimism sink in. 

You wrap your pinky finger around his, offering back a small smile. “Promise.”

~

The bell signaling the end of the lunch period pulls you out of your memory. You collect your things, taking your place in the halls among your peers as you head toward your next class. Only 3 more periods to get through, that’s it. Just 3. Then you can go home, and dig into your stash for some relief from this whirlwind of a day. You take a deep breath and put on a brave face as you walk into your English class. You’re one of the first students there, quickly grabbing an open seat in the back. Settling in, you pull out your notebook from your bag, facing toward the front of the class just as a patched denim jacket catches your eye. Eddie saunters in, dropping ungracefully into a seat in the back, 2 rows away from you. This can’t be happening. You lace your fingers together, resting your mouth against them as you stare at the board, not daring to let your eyes wander towards the long haired boy.

A soft gasp coming from your right grabs your attention, 

“Hey, I know you! Scoops Ahoy right?” You look over the girl as she takes a seat next to you. She looks familiar, you’d definitely seen her a few times while you were working at Scoops this summer. Donna? Denise? Debbie? You tried remembering the girl's name, knowing Steve had mentioned it at some point.

You clear your throat before answering, “Yeah, mhm. That’s me.”

“Oh my gosh. I still can’t believe what happened with the fire. I mean, a grease fire? From that god awful Hot Dog on a Stick place? Still so crazy to me.” She states, shaking her head in disbelief. You nod softly in response.

“Yeah, tell me about it. Guess they never learned grease and water don’t mix.” You breathe out a soft laugh, “Not an experience I’ll forget anytime soon, that’s for sure.”

“For sure, I bet! Hey, I thought I remembered Steve saying something about you just visiting for the summer… I’m guessing you’re here to stay?” 

You were a little taken aback at how kind she’s being. She seemed nice enough buying ice cream, but holding a full on conversation with you in a classroom was unexpected. By the looks of her, she wouldn’t be considered a ‘freak’ by any means. Not popular, but not an outcast either.

“Yeah that’s right, at least until graduation.” you respond with a soft smile that she quickly returns.

“Cool. Well anyway, I’m glad you guys made it out okay.”

“Thanks, me too” You finish as she settles into her seat, just as Ms. O’Donnel begins to speak at the front of the class.

As you settle back into your own seat, your cheeks warm. He didn’t hear that, did he? You try to pay attention to Ms. O’Donnel as she discusses The Catcher in the Rye when you can feel eyes on you. Taking in your peripheral vision confirms it. Yep, he definitely heard that. Eddie is practically staring daggers at the side of your face before scoffing, shaking his head and looking toward the front of the class. 

It takes every fiber of his being to not storm out of the classroom right in that moment, but he actually wanted to try and graduate this year, so he stays. Leg rapidly bouncing, biting down his already short nails just to attempt to calm the nerves and emotions raging through his body. Seeing you again, then to overhear that you had been visiting Hawkins in the summer this whole time… it’s too much for him to process. He’s hurting, fucking heartbroken actually, but that’s being overshadowed by anger. He knew it. Part of him never wanted to fully admit it to himself, but now he knows it’s true. You had truly abandoned him. He’s never blamed you for moving back to Virginia. That wasn’t your fault. You had no control over it, and he knew that. What he could never understand though, was why a couple months after you’d moved, you stopped calling and returning his calls. He used to go over and over in his head if he had done something, said something wrong and could never think of anything. He had tried not to let himself linger on it for too long and put on a tough front. He had been wrong about you, he’d decided. You were just like all the other people in his life that just hurt and abandoned him. That’s what he had to tell himself to move on and not drive himself crazy. Even if part of him didn’t, wouldn’t believe it. Well now he knows. You’d been visiting in the summers this whole time, and never bothered to tell him or see him? He still doesn’t understand why, but now he knows that he was right.

As soon as the bell rings, Eddie’s the first out of his seat and out of the door. You take a deep breath, wanting nothing more than to crawl in a hole and hide, the undeniable feeling of guilt overtaking you. You know you can’t, however. You’re going to have to tough it out for 2 more periods. Eddie doesn’t even attempt it, immediately walking out to his spot in the woods behind the school to smoke, to try to calm his body and mind so he can at least try to attend his last class of the day. 

Art happens to be his last class of the day, a class that he notices upon entering, is another he has to share with you. If you had known your first day was going to go like this, you would’ve just stayed in bed with Henny all day. You shake your head to yourself, knowing this is something you won’t be able to avoid and run away from for long. Is that something you even want? You tended to avoid conflict and confrontation at all cost… but you love Eddie. You miss Eddie. You know things are the way they are because of you. You have to take responsibility for it. You had known dropping contact with Eddie might hurt him, but you told yourself it probably wouldn’t bother him that much and he’d move on quickly. The insecure part of your brain told you, you probably didn’t mean as much to him as he did to you. Seeing his reaction today at lunch, and in class overhearing of your summer visits he wasn’t included in, tells you you’re dead wrong. What the hell am I going to do? How am I going to fix this?

When the bell rings this time to signal the end of the school day, you’re the first out of your seat and the classroom. Stopping at your locker to collect the last of your things into your bag before heading to the front doors. Stepping outside you take a deep breath of fresh air, digging for your pack of cigarettes and quickly lighting one. You close your eyes as you blow out the smoke, immediately feeling slightly calmer.

Then, just as if the gods have heard your plea for some lightness to this quickly souring day, you spot a familiar BMW pulling into the front of the school. You can’t deny the smile that quickly appears on your face. You put out your cig before Robin inevitably joins, knowing her distaste for it. You stroll over to the car as Steve parks it, already jumping out of the driver's seat to wrap you in a tight hug. You giggle, hugging him back.

“Hey, haircut. Miss me that much already?”

“Hush it, Y/L/N.” Steve quips. A split second later, you hear a rapidly approaching squeal before a body is pushed against your back, effectively putting you in the middle of a human sandwich hug.

“Oh, Y/N! Thank god you’re here. I didn’t know how much more of Steve I could bear on my own!” Robin exclaims exasperatedly, resting her head on top of yours. You let out a belly laugh, enjoying the comfort of their presence and hugs before begging them to let you go. 

“So, how was your first day back?” Steve asks as you both lean back against his car. 

You roll your eyes, sighing as you shake your head. 

“That’s the last thing I wanna talk about right now” When they meet you with concerned, sympathetic looks, you add “It’ll be alright though. I’m just so happy to see you guys, it‘s just what I needed.” You offer them a genuine smile.

Out of the corner of your eye, you spot the familiar curls of Dustin rushing out of the front doors of the school. Eyes quickly scanning the parking lot before landing on you. You point toward your truck in the back of the parking lot. 

“Black truck!” you shout, trying to hold back your laughter as you watch his eyes follow your finger before scurrying across the parking lot.

“Uh, HELLO, Henderson?!” Steve exclaims, arms thrown in the air in disbelief.

“I don’t have time for you right now, Steven!!” Dustin shrieks in response, dodging other student bodies as he races for the best seat. You can’t hold it in anymore at that, throwing your head back in laughter with Robin.

“Jeez. Guess I’m chopped liver, then.” Steve scoffs, shaking his head as he looks back over to you two.

“Oof. That’s rough, bud. How will your fragile ego ever recover?” Robin remarks, rubbing Steve’s arm in fake sympathy.

“Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up.”

You notice Mike and Lucas run out of the school seconds later, playing out the same actions as Henderson. Cursing when they see Dustin’s already ahead of them. 

“Oh, Y/N! You should totally apply to Family Video and work with us!” Robin exclaims excitedly.

“Yeah, it’ll be the three amigos again!” Steve adds, eliciting a groan and eye roll from Robin who lightly pushes him.

“Dingus”

“While I would love nothing more, I already promised my aunt I’d work for her at the restaurant” You respond with a pout. “But, you can definitely count on me coming in to bother y’all on your shifts.” 

They have a shift this afternoon so you part ways, hugging them goodbye with promises to talk later. Steve insists he wants to hear all the details about your day, when you’re ready to share of course. You smile, waving them off as you walk toward your truck. The 3 boys crowding around the passenger door, bickering with each other. 

“Dustin was here first. You two in the back, no arguments!” You state simply as you unlock the doors. As everyone gets settled, you quickly flip through your cassettes, putting in Motorhead’s Overkill album. As you begin to pull out from your parking spot, your eyes briefly land on Eddie. He stands at the front of the school, leaning against a pillar as he smokes a cigarette. Gareth is talking to him, but his eyes are on you. Catching the events of the last few minutes, cozying up with Steve Harrington of all people. You notice Gareth’s eyes follow Eddie’s to yours before you quickly return your focus to getting the hell away from this school. 

When you pull up to a red light, you open the small back window.

“Whose house am I dropping y’all off at?” 

“Mine is fine!” Mike responds, “We’ve got some homework to work on.”

You nod before a thought pops into your head.

“Hey” you turn your head slightly to look at Dustin and the boys in the back, “How is Max doing? I didn’t see her today.”

The boys are quiet for a moment, pondering what to say, causing your eyebrows to furrow in worry.

“She’s uh- she took everything that happened at the mall… Billy… pretty hard.” Mike finally says.

“She doesn’t really hang out with us much anymore. Her and her mom moved into the trailer park actually.” Dustin adds quietly.

“She broke up with me.” Lucas says after a few moments, unable to hide the sadness in his voice.

Your eyes widen in shock for a moment before you fully turn your head back, eyes meeting Lucas.

“I’m really sorry, bud. She probably just needs some time. I’m sure you guys will be able to work things out.” You offer sympathetically, Lucas giving you a soft nod and half-smile in return. 

You sigh, elbow resting on the bottom of your window frame, driving again as the light turns green. You make a mental note to figure out which trailer she’s moved into, keep an eye out for her at school and check in on her. Hearing she’s pulled away from the group and broke up with Lucas worries you, you don’t want her to have to go through this struggle alone.

Dustin breaks the silence a few moments later.

“Sooooo, what’s up with you and Eddie?” you choke out a laugh and shake your head. Real smooth, Dustin. “I mean, from the way you used to talk about him, you two seemed really close. But I picked up on that tension at lunch. Something happened, I know it.” he prods further, like this was a mystery he’s determined to insert himself in and solve.

“Nosey much, Henderson?” you say, side-eyeing him.

“I’m just saying. We’re close with you… and now Eddie is our dungeon master, we’re getting close with him… things could get sticky if there’s some tension there, which I know for a fact there is.”

“Oh is that so?” you retort, feeling relief as you pull into the boys’ neighborhood, knowing there isn’t as much time as Dustin would like to continue pushing you for information. “Dustin, I love ya. But respectfully, it’s none of your damn business, bud.” You finish, scrunching your nose at him teasingly. He puts his hands up defensively, dropping the conversation as you pull up to Mike’s house. You bid them farewell with a smile and wave as they thank you for the ride. 

You might have sped on the drive back to your trailer, just a little bit. You still have a few more hours till your mom gets home, and you want nothing more than the comfort of home and the familiar green plant in your lungs after your day. You don’t spare a glance at the trailer across the street as you pull in, quickly hopping out of the truck and unlocking the front door. You groan in relief as you quickly rid yourself of your bra and jeans, slipping into your comfy house shorts. You grab a blunt you pre-rolled, a lighter, and your portable radio before walking out the back door and sitting on the back steps. You’re grateful your small backyard is obscured from the views of your neighbors by some trees and bushes as you light your blunt. You lean back against the stair railing, listening to the sounds of Fleetwood Mac as you let the calming effects of your weed start to take over. Even as your body and mind calm, a single question repeatedly pushes into your thoughts.

How am I going to fix this?

[seeminglyranch87]

Taylor & Travis Timeline

May 2024 - Part 2

May 16 - According to ET (x)

The duo traveled via boat to have dinner at Locanda La Tirlindana Restaurant. While on their way to the popular eatery, Swift and Kelce were photographed kissing.

May 17 - Taylor flies to Sweden, Travis flies to KC

ET reveal very interesting article that appears to be warming up the public to the idea that Taylor and Travis are soon to be (or as most swifties believe already are) engaged! (x)

According to ET,

Excitement over a potential engagement between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce has been brewing and according to ET's source, a proposal might be on the horizon. The source tells ET, "Taylor and Travis are doing amazing, and their loved ones see an engagement coming sooner than later. They make a great match and there's no question about that."

The Eras Tour, Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden N1

I Think He Knows x Gorgeous (Travis' version) (guitar), Peter (piano)

May 18 - Kelce Jam (x) Kansas City.

The Eras Tour, Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden N2

Guilty as Sin (guitar) & Say Don't Go x Welcome to New York x Clean (piano)

Taylor is that a love bite? ;-)

Access Hollywood ask Travis what his favourite era is (x)

 “Oh, I’m a big ‘1989’ era, but I’m not going to lie I might be a little biased towards ‘The Tortured Poets Department,’ just little bit,”

Travis is also asked what Taylor Swift song he'd include in Kelce Jam?

"Oh, that's a good one. Golly, So High School might be the only one that's just jumping into my mind right now. I think everyone could get fired up for that one. There are so many. The Man is my niece's favourite, so we can always go with The Man."

E! online. (x)

After the Kansas City Chiefs tight end enjoyed a romantic trip to Italy with girlfriend Taylor Swift, he couldn't help but rave about the experience—especially when it came to the "unbelievable" food. As he told reporters on the red carpet at his Kelce Jam concert in Kansas on May 18, his favorite meal during the getaway was a butter ravioli dish, which he called "amazing." Taylor and Travis' vacation—which included a sweet boat ride in Lake Como—clearly left an impression on the NFL star, who noted that the locale was "beautiful." He added, "It's the best food and the best views in the world." But as for Travis' favorite part of his entire Europe trip? That would be his experience at Taylor's Eras Tour concert in Paris on May 12 alongside Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid.  "Taylor's shows are unbelievable," he told reporters. "If you haven't been to them, you gotta try them." And while Taylor's latest stop in Stockholm, Sweden, meant she wasn't able to attend Kelce Jam, the Grammy winner was able to show her support in other ways, according to Travis. He recalled that she told him to "go out and have fun."  "She wishes she was here, I know that," he shared on the red carpet, "but she's got a lot of people she's performing for."

May 19 - The Eras Tour, Friends Arena, Stockholm, Sweden N3

Message In A Bottle x How You Get The Girl x New Romantics (Max Martin Medley) (guitar) & How Did It End? (piano)

Go to previous update -> May part 1

Go to next update -> May part 3

Return to the timeline

[jessicaloons]

Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince:

Chapter 3

Masterlist - Previous - Next

Miss Americana

October 2022:

"… and then Miss Larimer said that we can pet the puppies…" Gabriel said excitedly, jumping up and down "They are so cute, Rach, I swear! I want one! Do you help me to convince dad to get me one? Pleeeaseee?"

Rachel only listened half-heartedly, reading the text on her phone while unlocking the car.

"Rachel! Please! I swear I’ll always eat my veggies, brush my teeth and go to bed when you tell me to, for the rest of my life! Please!" the little boy kept going but his nanny still didn’t react, her eyes still trained on her phone "RACHEL!"

She flinched looking into the rear view mirror at Gabriel who rolled his eyes.

"Sorry, what did you say?" she stuttered, trying to calm herself down.

"I said that Miss Larimer brought her puppies to school today and we could pet them and they were so cute and I want one! Can you help me to convince dad?" she saw her own set of puppy eyes in the mirror and laughed.

"Your dad is allergic to dogs, Gabe. You know that… are you buckled in?" Rachel started the car, driving off the parking lot, after Gabe nodded.

"That sucks…" the boy puffed out, looking out of the window, watching the boats and yachts in the harbour "One day I want to be a vet and then I can hang out with animals all day long."

"A vet? That’s an amazing idea, Gabe!" Rachel smiled and he nodded "And I’m sure you’d be an amazing vet!"

"You think so?" the blonde boy asked, making big eyes.

"Are you kidding me? Do you remember when we were at the zoo and you weren’t afraid to hold the snakes? Or touch the tarantulas! You even held up this definitely not cute looking lizard and cooed at it like it’s a sweet, fluffy puppy." the nanny recalled and Gabe smiled, thinking back to their trip to the zoo a couple of weeks ago.

"All animals are cute somehow." he shrugged and Rachel chuckled.

"See? You would be a perfect vet."

"You’re taking care of people and I’m taking care of animals. We’re both lifesavers!"

"Oh well, I’m not there yet. I only started my practical studies 6 months ago… as of now I’m not a lifesaver…"

"Yet. You’ll get there." Gabe chimed in and Rachel nodded.

"I will."

The rest of the car ride was spent in silence and when they arrived at home Gabe sat down at the kitchen island, starting with his homework.

"I’m back in a minute and then I make you a snack before we leave…" she said more to herself and walked out the back door, hastily making her way into her little studio.

She closed the door, pulling out her phone. With trembling hands she opened up the messages she got earlier.

I was at your university today.

According to your schedule you sent us you should’ve been there.

Where were you?

Also, isn’t it interesting that in the dormitory you’re supposed to live no one knows you?

Where the fuck are you, Rachel.

Tony. He was here. With trembling fingers Rachel dialled Stuart’s number.

"Hey Rach…"

"The app that’s blocking others from tracing my phone works, right?" Rachel cut him off and there was silence, the girl thinking her friends might’ve hung up on her "Stuart?"

"Yes. Of course? What’s going on?" her friend sounded concerned "Where are you?"

"At home. But-… they’re here. They checked in on me. But I wasn’t at university, because I didn’t update them on my new schedule… they won’t like that I specialised on paediatric… they were at my dormitory-…"

"Your dormitory? You don’t live here?"

"Yeah, but I didn’t tell them… I said that I was living at St. Julie Hall, they shouldn’t know that I saved a shit ton of money because I work and live outside of campus…" Rachel breathed out.

"Ignore it. You were at the hospital today. Answer tonight. Say that you moved to a different dorm and thought that you told them but must’ve forgot…" Stuart suggested.

"And what if they decide to come back?" her voice barely above a whisper.

"We’ll figure it out."

"They can’t find out about Gabe and Peter…"

"They won’t. Rach, they can’t track your phone. The only location they will get is the campus or the hospital, Marcus took care of it. You have a good excuse. It’s going to be fine, okay?" Stuart reassured Rachel, who took a deep breath.

"I have to take Gabe to his soccer practice now." she got up, checking herself in the mirror.

"Okay… take care Rach, and if you need anything, call, text, whatever…"

"Thanks Stu."

Rachel was tense and on alert the whole afternoon, looking around, searching the park and parking lot for someone from home, but thankfully she didn’t spot anything out of the ordinary. When she stood in the kitchen, preparing dinner, her phone rang and she took a deep breath, before she answered the call.

"Rachel?" her father.

"What’s up dad?"

"Don’t what’s up dad me! Where have you been? Why didn’t you answer your phone?" he was mad.

"What are you talking about? I just left the hospital when you called? I had a training shift today." Rachel lied, trying to sound confused and annoyed at the same time.

"You were at the hospital? Not on the campus?"

"No. I have more and more training shifts now, I’m getting my practical hours in now and I swear I love it." fake excitement.

"That’s good to hear, Rach… but Tony said it was weird that no one knew you in your dorm…"

"What? Why was Tony at my dorm?"

"He wanted to check in on you-…"

"Why? We had a deal! I’m allowed to finish my studies and not be bothered!"

"I don’t know, okay? He came over and told me that he visited you… something about checking in on their investment…-"

"Their investment? I’m here on a scholarship! None of you is investing anything in my education! I have a deal with his father. And I have no problem in calling him and telling him the deal is off the table if you lot don’t hold your end of the bargain!" Rachel was furious and didn’t even had to fake it.

"I don’t think his father knew that he was visiting you… Tony just stormed in here and told me that you weren’t at the campus and no one knew you at your dorm-…"

"Because I moved! When I came back after the summer a fellow student told me that there is an open spot at Fennell Hall, the dormitory right on campus. She knows the RA and so I got the spot. It’s a little more expensive but I only need 5 minutes to classes now. I told you that!"

"You did?" her fathers voice faltered.

"Yeah, right after my first week back. It’s a new term and when I came back I didn’t know most of the students in my old dormitory anyway, so I thought a change would be nice." Rachel said casually, when she saw Gabe getting off the sofa "Listen dad, it’s been a damn long day, I’ve been awake since 5 am. I just want to drive home, take a shower and sleep. Are we done here?" she fake yawned, hoping her father would believe her.

"Yeah… sure. Take care, Rachel." he said and Rachel thanked the universe for making him believe her.

"Will do. Good night dad." she hung up, right when Gabe sat down at the kitchen island, sniffling the air. She calmed herself down, smiling at the young boy.

"Smells good, what is it?" he asked.

"It’s a beef stew, here, have a taste." she scooped up some of the stew and blew cold air on it while Gabe walked around the island "Careful, it might be still a little hot."

The young boy chewed his food, making big eyes, swallowing his bite down.

"That’s good!" he exclaimed and his nanny smiled "Will dad be here to eat with us?"

"He said he will."

"Good. I want to tell him that I want to be a vet when I grow up."

"A vet? Where did that come from?" Peter walked into the kitchen, loosening his tie "What happened to rocket scientist?"

"As a vet I can hang out with animals all day long…" Gabe shrugged taking the plates from Rachel, setting the table.

"Well that’s true." his father laughed, squeezing his nanny’s arm "Are you okay, Rach? You’re a little pale?"

"I’m fine, it’s just a lot right now, everyone is starting to prepare for the exams…"

"Already? Wait? When are the exams?" he looked confused.

"We still got time, but yeah. Preparation is key, that’s what our professors love to say." Rachel rolled her eyes and Pete laughed, getting himself a beer.

"I can’t believe that in not even 8 months you’re done. God where do I find another amazing nanny just like you again?" he pouted, sitting down on a stool "A nanny that can cook like you!"

"Why don’t you stay with us forever?" Gabe looked at his nanny "I don’t want you to go."

"Believe me, Gabe, I don’t want to either, but when I’m done, I’m a nurse, I’ll have to take over so many shifts and I just wouldn’t have enough time for you." Rachel ruffled his hair a little.

"But you come visit us? Right?" he asked and she swallowed hard, nodding.

"Of course, little one." Rachel lied, feeling sick doing so.

The girl was quiet during dinner, listening to Gabe and his father, enjoying the family time. She knew that as soon as she graduated she would be gone. Telling Peter a half truth why she had to leave so fast, promising to stay in touch, knowing it would all be nothing but lies. She dreaded that day, over the past years she really grew close to the father son duo, loved them wholeheartedly. But she couldn’t risk them getting into harms way. And she wouldn’t do it. But she knew that leaving them behind would break her heart. And when she sat down with Gabe after dinner, all cuddled up on the sofa, watching cartoons, the first crack in her heart already formed.

"I’m going to miss you so much… you’re my best friend." Gabe whispered, making Rachel close her eyes, trying her best to not cry.

"I’ll miss you too, buddy, so damn much."

June 2023:

With her diploma in hand, Rachel walked off the stage, waving at Peter and Gabriel, the only ones to attend her graduation. After shaking some more hands and joining her fellow graduates for the hat toss, she walked over to Peter and Gabriel. The boy running up to his nanny, hugging her tight.

"We’re so proud of you Rachel!" Peter said, hugging her as well "Valedictorian. Wow. Amazing."

"Thank you for coming." the young girl blushed a little, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

"Are you kidding me? We would never miss this opportunity!" Peter smiled "And now, I’d love to take you out for dinner, if you haven’t planned anything yet? You didn’t say that you would celebrate afterwards so I reserved a table at La Chabelle just in case."

"Oh wow, Peter! You didn’t have to." Rachel blushed even more.

"You worked so hard over the last four years. You deserve a treat!"

"Okay…" Rachel began when she felt her phone vibrate "I umm- I just want to say goodbye to a few of my classmates and then we can leave."

"Okay, we’re waiting by the car." Peter and Gabriel walked off and Rachel took out her phone, reading the text.

"Rach-…" Stuart grabbed her shoulder, making her flinch "Hey, it’s me. Sorry! I didn’t want to scare you."

"I need to leave as soon as possible." she just said and Stuart looked confused "Here…" she shoved him her phone in his hands and he read the text.

"Next Friday? Didn’t you say that your graduation is on Friday?"

"They want me to come back immediately after. They’re sending someone to help me with my stuff… I have to play my part to make them believe I’m still here. They can’t know that I’m gone. They would send someone after me immediately. I should leave now. Yes. I’m leaving now."

"Okay, take a deep breath for me. Look at me Rach. I call my contact person and tell them you’re coming earlier than planned. But for tonight you’re going with Peter and Gabriel to La Chabelle, you’re enjoying your last night here. I’ll go to your place and start packing your stuff, we’ll figure it out okay?"

"But what will I tell Peter and Gabe? I have to tell Peter the truth. I planned it all out. Fuck this is ruining everything! But he has to know that I’m leaving. I can’t just disappear…"

"You will tell him tonight. It’s fine."

"Okay-… I- I have to go now, they’re waiting for me." Rachel looked towards the parking lot and Stuart nodded.

"You go, I take care of the rest. It’s going to be fine, you’ll see." he reassured the blonde girl and she nodded, then she pulled him in a tight hug.

"Thank you Stu, for everything. You’re a true friend…"

"It’s okay Rach, really. Now go."

With one last look she walked off, towards the sleek, black Mercedes of her boss, getting in as soon as she reached it.

"Ready?" Peter asked and Rachel nodded.

"Ready."

"Me too!" Gabe said from the backseat and they laughed.

"Then let’s go." Peter steered the car onto the busy road, driving across town and stopped in front of La Chabelle.

"Good night, buddy." Rachel kissed the young boys forehead, ruffling his hair while getting up.

"Good night…" Gabe mumbled, almost drifting off to sleep immediately.

The nanny carefully walked over to the door, quietly opening it before turning around once more, looking at the boy she took care of for the last 4 years. All the memories of the past years came to her mind. She felt her heart ache, not ready to say her final goodbye, although deep down she knew she had to. In order to keep Gabe and his dad safe, Rachel had to disappear. She took a deep breath and quietly closed the door, gathering herself for the conversation she would now have with her boss of the last 4 years. Peter was amazing. He paid Rachel more than well, took her and Gabe on little trips here and there. Always treated her like a part of the family, rather than a subordinate. She would miss him as well.

"Rach? Can we talk?" the girl flinched when her boss appeared out of nowhere in front of her, stopping her train of thoughts.

"Umm-… sure, I actually wanted to talk to you as well…" she gulped, following him downstairs.

"Yeah?" Peter replied and pointed to the sofa "You want a drink? Because I sure as hell need one…" he poured himself a glass of scotch, before looking at his nanny "Oh I forgot, scotch tastes like washing detergent, was it?"

"Yeah…" Rachel chuckled, accepting the can of coke her boss handed her "So- umm… about what did you want to talk to me?"

"Gabe and I… we’ll leave next week…" he blurted out, rubbing his neck, and Rachel tilted her head a little "Of course you’re free to stay until the end of the month in the studio, as we agreed on. But Gabe and I, we won’t be here until then…"

"You’re going on vacation?" the girl asked, although she was sure that she would’ve known if her boss had planned something.

"No. Not on vacation. Rachel, Gabe and I, we’re moving to Austin. I got a new job there…"

"Wow! That’s amazing!" a big smile spread on Rachel’s face, in Austin they would be safe "You didn’t tell me that you were looking for a new job? But I’m so happy for you!"

"Yeah, it was… well my boss contacted me out of the blue last week and offered me the job… they need me there as soon as possible… but this job, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, you know?"

"Sounds amazing and I think Gabe will love it, he can become a real cowboy then…" the girl laughed, looking at the man in front of her, a serious look on his face "It’s going to be fine, just don’t let him alone with a horse for too long or you have to buy it!"

"Yeah… probably." Peter smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

"Okay, what’s wrong?" Rachel asked, looking at him intently.

"Is it too rushed? I don’t know how Gabe will take it? All his friends are here? Tearing him away from everything familiar?"

"You know your son, he can deal with everything. He will find new friends in no time, don’t worry!"

"Yeah, you’re right…" he sighed a little, scratching his chin "And what is it you wanted to talk about?"

"Oh- umm… I wanted to say that some friends asked me if I wanted to join them on a little trip… we would leave in the next days, I don’t know when exactly. I know, it’s a little spontaneous, but yeah…" Rachel lied, smiling innocently.

"Sounds wonderful! You should go, Gabe and I will be fine… we need to get used to a life without you now anyways! Unless you want to join us in Austin?" he smiled, a tinge of hope in his voice.

"As much as I appreciate the offer, I already have some job interviews lined up here, so…"

"Understandable, but you know that you’re always more than welcome!" Peter said and the girl nodded.

"I know Pete, and I really appreciate it…" she got up "I guess it’s time for me to pack my stuff then, maybe Stu can come in tomorrow and help me with it, so I don’t have to worry about it after I come back and you’re long gone…"

"Right, yeah… will you help me tell Gabe tomorrow?"

"Of course!" she smiled and kissed his cheek "Good night, Pete. Best boss in the world…"

"Night Rach, best nanny in the world…"

She chuckled and left the living room, through the kitchen and out into the backyard, the light in her studio already switched on.

"Please tell me that everything is arranged?" Rachel asked as soon as she closed the door behind her.

"Everything done." Stuart replied and she looked around her room.

Her life fitted into 2 cardboard boxes, a suitcase and a backpack.

"That’s all?" she mumbled and her friend nodded "I can’t take the boxes with me…"

"I know… I put all your personal belongings, pictures, books and stuff like that in your suitcase… the boxes is stuff you won’t need anymore, also some clothes I don’t want to see you ever in again…"

"Ouch, thanks…" Rachel chuckled "When am I leaving?"

"Sunday morning."

Rachel looked out of the window, as the plane slowly made its way higher up into the sky. She looked back one last time at her home. She knew, would she ever return, it wouldn’t be by her free will, she would be forced. It meant they found her and she had to make sure that that would never happen. She leaned back, closing her eyes. She still felt her heart ache, thinking at Gabe’s tear stricken face, but she knew that what she did was right. In two days they would be gone as well. Far away from Boston. Gone. No one would know she ever worked for Peter Hastings. No one would ever bother them. No one would know she’s gone until next Friday.

And when they would try to figure out where she was, when they followed her trace, she’ll be long gone. All planned out by Stuart. Rachel didn’t know what would happen to her old life, she didn’t ask. She didn’t want to know. But one thing was for sure, as soon as she would land in Montreal the life of Rachel Lombardi would end.

Chapter 3 - Goodbye Rachel’s old life, this looks like the start of something new… I know I’m rushing a little through the timeline here with big time jumps, but this is all just backstory to prepare you and our characters for the main plot, so please, bear with me 😅

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

If you want to be added to the taglist, drop a comment!

Last but not least, English is not my first language and although I tried my best: please excuse any mistakes I made!

Taglist:

@glitterquadricorn @lottalove4evelyn @janeh22 @itsjustkhaos

[mystic-writings]

remember the nights | chapter fourteen — a rom-com happy ending

WORD COUNT — 2,841

WARNINGS — pure fluff, weddings

NOTES — i can't believe it's already over :( well, not really bc this series will always live in my head, way into their college years, but for now this is the end <3

previous chapter | masterlist | next chapter

Ever since your Uncle Mark started staying in the guest room and wedding prep picked up even more, your house was never quiet. Between final food tastings, organizing the tables and stationary, plus the horrendous amount of extra schoolwork you were dealing with due to a new semester starting up, life never slowed down. 

Things at school got better, so long as you ignored Newt in any way, and focused on your college applications and spending time with Brenda. Plus, your uncle Mark made sure to spend all his extra time with you, since you hadn’t seen him in two years. 

He and Maggie’s brothers got along well, and made the house extra vibrant as everyone got to know one another over game nights and dinners. The very first night you’d met them — Maggie’s brothers, George and Dean — they embraced you lovingly, claiming that Maggie had always wanted a daughter. 

Valentine’s Day started with a bright dawn and a calm air, and you could tell even with the cold that it was a beautiful day for a wedding. The day started early, at around 5am, with Maggie shaking you awake, offering you a toasted waffle and travel mug of coffee. The house was void of men and instead filled with the women of the bridal party, all running around and getting ready in different parts of the house in order to have things done on time. 

Everyone had their dresses in different places, and you and a woman named Sarah did each other’s makeup in your bedroom by the desk before taking turns getting dressed and finding your purses, accessories, and proper coats. 

Maggie was already on her way to the church in just her makeup by the time everyone was ready, leaving you to lock up the house and pile into one of the three cars occupying the driveway. You texted with Brenda, Harriet, and Sonya on the car ride, talking about the reception happening later on. 

You and Thomas were allowed to bring your friends to the reception (with Brenda and Jorge being the exception, as they were invited to the ceremony), something that your parents agreed upon not long after they told you about the proposal. Since the bonfire, though, the group was shattered, and you really only talked to the girls for now. Thomas was inviting everyone else who wanted to come, though, so you’d see everyone there, anyway. 

One thing you did notice, through the bustle and stress of the wedding and finals, was that your friends had been acting odd, to say the least. Thomas was the same, but every one of your friends were exchanging an unsettling amount of smiles and glances — not just the girls, but Gally and Minho, too. You’d even asked them about it one day, but they all refused to give you an answer. 

You shook the thoughts from your head and texted the girls to update them on where you were. They were all excited for the wedding, and you were, too. Everything about this day had felt spectacular so far, and you couldn’t wait to actually see Maggie and your dad get married. 

The church was empty for now, but you and the girls all filed into the bridal suite, where Maggie sat, pinning up her hair into the most elegant style you’d seen. Since her hair was neck length and wavy, it was difficult to get her hair into a style that looked nice. However, she managed to take some strands from the front to frame her face, while still having the majority of the upper half of her hair pinned back with pearl beaded pins, her waves still flowing free. 

You almost cried at how wonderful she looked, before realizing it was up to you and two other bridesmaids to help her into her dress. 

If you hadn’t been emotional before, you definitely were now. 

Maggie looked like she’d stepped right out of a fairytale. Her bodice and sleeves were mesh, patterned with intricate lace, her skirt made of silk with a slight volume to it and lots of movement. The lace pattern bled into the skirt, blending well with the silk and forming it into a cohesive piece. 

Everyone’s compliments overlapped as you took her hands in yours, the both of you smiling widely at one another. 

With a gentle squeeze of your hands, and a knock on the door from her brothers, ready to walk her down the aisle, Maggie sighed. “Well, ladies, I think it’s just about time I got married, don’t you think?”

The ceremony was, to say the least, perfect. 

Out of the entire bridal party, you were the last to walk down the aisle, with Chuck and Thomas on either arm, all three of you beaming like sunshine. 

Your dad, along with everyone in the church, welled with tears upon Maggie’s entrance, both  of her brothers on her arm. Everything went without a hitch, and you must have ran through a pack or two of pocket kleenex. You’d never be able to replicate the joy in your heart when your dad finally called Maggie his wife. 

To no one’s surprise, the reception started strong and continued to stay that way. The hall looked absolutely amazing, with round tables and white wicker chairs, beautiful flower centerpieces. In the few-hour long break between the ceremony and the reception, Sonya, Harriet, and Brenda’s attitudes have kicked up in suspicion, but all things considered, you simply brushed it off. You had a lot more to worry about today than their behavior, and one of those things was your speech. 

All of your friends sat at a table near the front, watching your uncle wrap up his speech. Thomas and Chuck were going to do one as the best men, but didn’t quite know what to say, so they passed that duty onto Mark. One of Maggie’s friends offered to do the same for you, but you had already started with an idea, and this was too important to pass off. 

With shaking hands and messily written index cards, you stepped up to the microphone next to your parents table, smiling at the people around you. You kept your eyes on Maggie and your dad, though, for the most part. 

Clearing your throat, you leaned into the mic and began your speech. “I know that there’s a lot of people here who might not exactly know who I am, but I’m very glad to be here to share this day with all of you. I’m the daughter of the groom, and my name is Y/n. I want to start by congratulating my dad and Maggie, who I can say, deep in my heart, I know were meant to be together. Sure, it took them a while, but I guess finding ‘The One’ takes time, right?” You took a deep breath, adjusting the cards in your hands, finding that you didn’t need them any more. “I’ve only known Maggie for about four years, but she’s one of the greatest people I’ve ever met. I’ll forever be grateful for all of the things she’s helped me and my dad through, and for always being there. Maggie, you and your boys have changed everything in our lives, and there won’t be a day that I won’t be thankful for that. You showed my dad how to love again, and you didn’t hesitate for a second to share that love with me, too.” 

You were only looking at Maggie, now, eyes wet with tears and a smile stretching your face. “And it’s because of that love and dedication that I am proud to be here today, with all our friends and family, and be able to call you my mom.” 

You watched the emotions change on your parents faces and laughed lightly. “I can only finish this off by saying that I hope that everything the both of you want out of life comes to you, and to tell you that I love you both to the moon and back.” 

Quietly, you stepped away from the microphone and walked over to an already standing Maggie, pulling you into a tight hug. 

“I love you so much, honey,” she whispered, kissing the side of your head. 

You squeezed her tight, tucking your face into her neck. “I love you, too, mom.”

After you let go and sat down, you glanced over at your dad to find him trying his best to hide his tears. He hadn’t been doing so well, considering you could see the shine of tears building on his waterline. 

Dinner and cake came after the speeches finished, both of which were delicious — you made a mental note to personally tell Jorge how good the cake was — and made you heavily consider taking seconds, despite knowing you would pay for it later with a stomach ache. 

Soon enough, the dance floor filled with people, and you searched out your friends to spend more time with them. 

You found them easily, the seven of them clumped into one corner of the room, just by the hall’s main entrance. They greeted you warmly, talking over one another about the food and the speeches. You told them everything about your day so far, and how proud and elated you were that the wedding finally happened. It was only when you were getting into how hectic things had been at the house that Gally’s phone rang, and suddenly the whole group went quiet. 

He stepped away, answering the phone and nodding like the person on the other line could see him. Everyone was looking at him, cheeky smiles on their faces as Gally came back, tucking his phone back into the pocket of his slacks. 

“What was that all about?” You asked him. 

Gally smiled at you, something he didn’t do all that often, a playful gleam in his eye. “Wanna go for a drive?”

“Why?” Your brows cinched as you dragged out your question, glancing between everyone as a slight chill ran up your spine. 

“He’s got a surprise for you, that’s why.” Brenda nudged you. “Just go, I promise it’ll be worth it.” 

You looked between everyone wearily before following Gally out to his car, not bothering to grab your coat. Your heart was racing with every step, the anticipation and confusion building in your head. Brenda said it was worth the trip, but you just didn’t know what was going on. Not to mention everyone’s odd behavior…

After driving around for a few minutes, Gally pulled into the school parking lot. A light flurry of snow had begun to fall, dusting the grass and pavement, and slightly impairing your vision as you looked around from the passenger’s seat. “Gally, why are we at the school?”

The boy looked up from his phone with a smirk. “You’ll see.”

Not a moment after he finished his sentence, your phone pinged from your dress pocket. Your heart stopped when you pulled it out, reading the new message in your notifications. ‘Come to the willow tree’

It was from Newt.

You looked up at Gally, who’s smile widened as he nodded toward the field. 

“He’s waiting for you,” Gally said, and you had to remember how to breathe. 

With one final, reassuring nod, you exited the car, bracing against the cold as you raced to the willow tree. Through the flurries, you made out Newt’s figure by the tree, and stopped yourself from running any further. 

Once you were able to move your legs again, you took it slower, walking through the thin layer of accumulating snow, picking up your dress to make it less likely for you to trip. With every step, you could make out Newt’s figure a little clearly, and it made the ache in your chest grow larger. 

You came to a stop under the tree’s canopy of dead leaves, providing some protection from the snow. Newt was wearing a black suit, and you couldn’t deny how great he looked in it. He was still staring at his shoes and picking at his fingernail when you stopped walking, almost as though he hadn’t heard you approaching him. 

Gripping the sides of your dress, you found the courage to speak up. “I thought you didn’t want to see me again.” 

Newt looked up from his shoes with a smile. “I lied.” 

“But that’s what you said, isn’t it? On Christmas. When you slammed the door in my face.” 

“I know what I said, and I’m sorry,” Newt sighed, stepping a bit closer. “I was a prick for saying it, too. I never should’ve done what I did, you didn’t deserve it.” He took a breath, running a hand through his hair and tucking a hand into one of his pockets. “Ever since the party, Sonya’s been telling me every day how upset you were. Hell, everyone was, and it’s been driving me mad ever since, because I hurt you, and I’ve never wanted to do that.” 

Teary-eyed, you opened your mouth to speak, but Newt continued. 

“I don’t care what Tommy thinks about us being together anymore. But I want us to be together. Hell, the only thing that kept me quiet about how I felt for so long — that stopped me from asking you out when we hung out together on our own for the first time — was how I thought he would react, or if he would disapprove of it. But I don’t care anymore. I love you, Y/n. More than anything. Staying away from you for so long has been killing me, and I can’t stand it anymore.” He stepped closer again, leaving only a few inches of space between you. “You have no idea how badly I wanted to follow you outside when you came to Mickey’s with Brenda. To apologize for what I said, for leaving you that night. To—” he sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. “—to kiss you bloody senseless.” 

You stared up at the boy before you, the one you never thought would talk to you again, in awe of his words. After the bonfire, you never believed that Newt would say something like that to you, let alone plan something as intimate as this was. You blinked away tears for the fourth time that day and realized there was only one thing you could say at the moment. 

“So do it. Kiss me.” 

Newt closed the distance between your bodies, pulling you into him by the waist and pressing his lips to yours. Elation filled every inch of your body as you wrapped your hands around his neck, pulling him as close as you were able, pouring all your love into the kiss. You felt one of Newt’s hands snake up your neck, palm splayed over your jaw as he tried in vain to pull you closer into his body. 

You wished you didn’t need air to breathe when you were forced to pull back, lipstick smeared on Newt’s swollen lips, and likely on your own, as well. But you still had one question to ask. 

“Why now?” You asked, smoothing the hairs on the nape of his neck. “I mean, after everything, why now? You spent two months pretending to hate me, so what changed?”

“The jacket.” Newt told you. “Sonya practically forced it into my hands after you left, and then she yelled at me for half an hour about how big of an idiot I was being, and how wrong it was for me to keep treating you the way I had been. After that… I sat on my bed for a while, holding the jacket and thinking about how right she was. About how much I missed you. After that, I knew I had to do something, so…” 

“So you planned all this?” You said, a coy smile spreading on your lips. “Just for me?”

Newt smiled wide, laughter bubbling in his throat. “Just for you, darling.” The nickname made your heart skip a beat, and your smile widened. “You shouldn’t be so surprised. You  saw what I did for you in New York. Making elaborate plans to see you happy isn’t anything new.”

Without another word, you pulled his head down to kiss him again. You couldn’t fight the smile on your lips as you kissed Newt, reveling in how amazing it felt to finally be able to kiss him. Just as you were pulling away, a thought crossed your mind. “Wait. What about Thomas? And our friends?”

“Did you not hear a word I just said?” Newt laughed. “I don’t give a damn what Tommy thinks. I only care about you. And our friends have been in on it for the past week, love.” 

You smiled bright at the boy holding you, pulling him back into another searing kiss. 

Under the canopy of the willow tree, on the greatest day of your life so far, you got your movie-screen happy ending; and everything that happened to get it was entirely worth it.

series taglist: @heliads @ghostofscarley @badbatch-simp24 @virginia-peters @third-broparcelicito @lamolaine @yes-fangirl-things (open!)

[bless-my-demons]

Scroll if you don’t feel like crying, I think today was the worst day of my life.

I put my dog down today, she was going on 14 years old - her hips were failing, she was having more and more accidents in the house, and her appetite as of late has been pretty low. I think she’s been ready to go for a while, just waiting on me.

But this is my Sasha, my Pumpkin, my Bear-Bear. She was with me when I moved out of my parents house after high school, she’s followed me through so many ups and downs, the most recent being my divorce. The only time she’s ever left my side was for the multiple deployments I’ve been on throughout my 8 year career in the military, I’ve never known a moment in the last 10 years where I was home and she wasn’t sleeping at the end of my bed every night. I got her from her previous owner when she was 3-4 years old, he was an elderly man who got diagnosed with cancer and wanted her to pick who she went to, my dad had seen the post on Facebook and on my 19th birthday she chose me.

This morning I held her in my lap on the way to the vet’s office, she greeted everyone in the office lobby-she always loved going places and seeing new people, I held her while we waited in the exam room for the vet, I held her as they placed the IV line, and her eyes held mine until she was too sleepy to keep them open. That was my first ever experience euthanizing an animal, she was my heart dog. I don’t want another dog, I want my baby, I want to get a call from the vet saying she’s fine and ready for pickup and I can take her home and cuddle her like nothing happened. I want to hear her nails clicking on the hardwood when I come home after a long day of work. I want to see that goofy ass smile and head tilt one more time, I want her cold nose that I used to hate when she’d stick it in my armpit for attention. Riding in the backseat of my truck for the first time today, I realized all the nose prints and slobber she left on the rear windows and doors, how do I clean those now? Her collar is still in my purse and I don’t think I’ll take it out anytime soon, walking out of that office with just a collar and leash was so hard.

I want my baby back, I want my Sasha Bear. I know this was the right thing to do, that she isn’t in pain anymore, that it’s better this way instead of going out in a much worse emergent condition - I know all of these things, but my heart hurts. Leaving her on the exam table and walking away was like having my heart surgically removed, I don’t ever want to do that again.

I love you so much, sweet girl.

[absolutebl]

10 BLs where the Main Couple has NO Prior History

Or at least, very very little of it. The opposite of the very popular LTP (long term pining). 

This post in response to a question posed by the most excellent @luuhecia​ who asked: Soooo here's my plea: do you have any recommendations of shows where the people involved have no previous history?

In other words we get to watch them meet and fall in love with no prior history on either side. So I eliminated those were there was a made crush even if only recently (e.g. Light on Me, Takara & Amagi). 

1. Seven Days

They know of each other but just in a normal high school way. No pining. The story is basically about the 7 days it takes them to fall in love. 

2. Color Rush

They are destined for each other but they have never met before. 

3. Semantic Error 

In fact, part of the premise is a “hunt for the unknown boy who made him fail to graduate.” 

4. To My Star 

They have a couple of meet cutes, accidentally shack up together. 

There are actually a TON from Korea. 

5. Addicted 

The new kid in high school. They have a family connection (it turns out) but they didn’t know each other. 

6. Restart After Come Back Home

We see them meet for the first time and then go on from there.

7. HIStory 2: Crossing the Line 

They meet by crashing into each other because... Taiwan. 

8. My Tooth Your Love 

Just so cute. 

9. Eclipse

There are a lot of good ones from Thailand but I chose this because it’s part of the plot, how they know nothing about each other. 

10. Love by Chance 

Just the greatest meet cute ever. 

NEW ENTRY

11. The Eighth Sense

Actually uses the fact that the DO NOT have prior history with each other as a plot point and for character development. It’s addressed directly ind dialogue. Very nicely done! 

Others that didn’t make my top 10 but still have no prior pining

China 

Advance Bravely 

Capture Lover

My Esports Genius Brother - love at first sight 

Japan

Candy Color Paradox 

Given - love at first sight 

His the series  - love at first sight 

Senpai This Can’t Be Love (he has a crush on him but they haven’t actually met each other) 

Silhouette of Your Voice

Kieta Hatsukoi

My Beautiful Man 

Mr Unlucky - love at first sight 

Korea 

Kissable Lips - fated mates

Mr Heart

My Sweet Dear 

Love Class 

Behind Cut 

Shoulder to Cry On 

The Lover - cohabitation 

Unintentional Love Story 

Tasty Florida - love at first sight 

 Roommates of 304 

All the Liquors

Blueming

New Employee 

Nobleman Ryus Wedding 

Oh Boarding House 

Ocean Likes Me 

Tinted With You 

Wish You - love at first sight 

You Make Me Dance  

The Philippines 

Like in the Movies

My Day 

Rainbow Prince 

Taiwan 

Because of You 

Be Loved in House I Do

Craving You - love at first sight 

HIStory 2: Right or Wrong 

See You After Quarantine? 

Vietnam

Hay Rival I Love You 

My Lascivious Boss - one night stand

Nation’s Brother - one night stand

Want to See You 

You Are Ma Boy

Thailand

(not all are chronicled, there’s too many, main couples only) 

Ai Long Nhai - love at first sight 

Bite Me

Between Us - one night stand 

Coffee Melody

Love Mechanics - one night stand  

Ghost Host Ghost House

Gen Y - love at first sight 

KinnPorsche (family connection but they don’t know about it) 

La Cuisine 

Tale of 1000 Stars - Well there is the heart connection but it’s not quite the same thing

Love in the Air 

Love Area 

My Engineer 

Meow Ears Up 

Moonlight Chicken - one night stand 

My Ride - GREAT example of well developed meet cute and then romance 

Never Let Me Go

Not Me - erm, it’s complicated 

Oh My Sunshine Night 

Oxygen - love at first sight 

Paint with Love

Puppy Honey 

Siew Sum Noi

Something in My Room 

Top Secret Together 

TharnType 

Tuxedo 

Unforgotten Night - One Night Stand 

Vice Versa 

What Zabb Man 

YYY 

This post as of April 2023, not responsible of BLs that fit this criteria after that date. But feel free to leave a comment or repost with more additions. 

(source)

[he-goes-down]

0. There Was A Time

fic chapters/warnings/disclaimers/ect

:DISCLAIMER:

Mentions of drugs/ sex ect.

English is not my first language

POV changes

x reader

inconsistent updates

time line is not perfect or accurate

Character may also not be accurate

I'll also be posting this on wattpad and maybe ao3

So if you see it wasn't stolen<3

Also i dont know how tumblr works and how to link chapters together(someone send help)

ALSO THIS NOT EDITED IN ANYWAY SO SORRY IF THERE ARE SPELLING MISTAKES

THANK YOU FOR READING MWUAH MWUAH

LEAVE COMMENTS <3

The studio was warm in the coldest night of this Autumn, warm yellowish light and the red carpeted floor made it feel like a cosy log cabin. A full drum set with a few too many ride cymbals and windchimes sat close to the middle of the fat bare bricked wall, with a small metal bucket that had the remains of broken splinter drumsticks. A rack of guitars and two bass holders stood next to the right wall where an old armchair sits, a few different sized amps scattered round the square room. Right in front of the glass that separates the control room from the studio three mic stand in a line with noise cancelling boxes surrounding each of them.

In the control room there is a strong smell of weed and other smokeable herbs, "No! You can't take Runaway Blues off the album!" A man with short shoulder length brown hair and a moustache protested as he puffed on his cigarette as he lied back on the couch, his dark glasses fell back on his face as he tilted his head back. "I agree with Jake. It shows how good we are even when we're shit faced." The man with long curly hair, a gorgeous ethnic nose, stood up – towering over the other 4 people in the sesh – and began to roll another blunt on one of the control panels. The one that started this debated piped in, "Thanks Dan for taking my side." He said sarcastically, his curly mullet was like a solid cloud on his head, and he has a moustache like Jake. "We'll our wonderful manager and producer here," A man that looked like Jesus pointed to a woman that sat next to Jake on the couch. "Was the one that wasn't shit faced, I think that's why it was actually good, Joshua." He finished. "Hey, hey, I'm not saying it's shit because of you, please believe me y/n!" Josh dramatically pleaded to y/n. She was looking up at the ceiling. Pupils dilated. Blunt in hand. "Just, make it shorter." She said confidently, waving her hand a bit. Still not looking at anyone and head craned back. "You have the answer to everything." Danny said his mouth slightly gaped that such a simple solution didn't register in any of their minds. Or he's just on a psychedelic trip and can't spark up a brain cell.

The following week the band had dates in LA since they were still doing there 'Dreams in Gold' Tour. The band was already at the venue setting up, some still sleeping in the bus. Y/n had some business to attend to in their studio in New York before going down to LA. She decided to walk down the infamous Sunset Strip, as a historic music place like this could not go untrekked when having the chance. Wearing a black turtleneck, dark blue flare jeans with dark brown boots and a satchel bag hanging from her shoulder, a small suitcase's handle in the other hand while the silver case dragged its wheels on the floor. As she caught the sight of the colourful sign of The Rainbow, a voice called to her. "Y/n?" A older man, short blondish hair, leather jacket, sunglasses.

Axl Rose.

And like the trigger of a gun being pulled,

A life was lost.

(or misplaced)

Y/n's POV:

Everything stood still,

I stood still.

Then it all went dark. It was a black lifeless void.

Falling backwards but being physically still.

Time was reversing.

A previous life. My life?

Memories rolling past like an old film.

My head spiralled.

I can't comprehend this. What is happening to me?

My first years of school, late 60's early 70's. That's not right. It was the early 2000's.

Falling in love with music, Queen, Elton John.

Highschool was trip. My parents being stricter than anyone else's, they didn't believe I could have a job as in the music industry.

Studying music in college then going on the Uni and taking a science course to get my folks off my back.

One of my most successful record deals was Mötley Crüe and Bon Jovi.

Before they even started writing lyrics for their songs, I knew it off by heart and helped them gain success with it and recording went like dream.

Now I was searching the East Coast for a new band to sign.

March 1985, The City of Angels.

A flash of light, and my eyes flickered open.

It a cold night, dark but the city light was somewhat comforting.

It was the Sunset Strip, but something was...

Off.

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

OMG SORRY IF IT'S SHIT

THIS WAS LIKE THE INTRODUCTION, FIRST PART IS COMING OUT SOON 

IM SO EXCITED

(Band at the beginning is greta van fleet )

[asykriel]

Love is the Death of Duty - 15.

☆ Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x Male! Targaryen OC

☆ Status: Ongoing 

☆ Summary:  

“He is half of my heart.”

War made monsters of them all, but it also brought the two second sons together in a flurry of death, love, deceit and delusion. The story of Aemond Targaryen and the eldest son of Daemon and Rhaenyra, Maegor Targaryen, second of his name. 

☆ Warnings: Sexual content, explicit violence, dark themes, targcest etc.

☆ AO3 ☆ || ☆ Wattpad ☆

☆ CHAPTERS: (Prologue) / ( 1 ) / ( 2 ) / ( 3 ) / ( 4 ) / ( 5 ) / ( 6 ) / ( 7 ) / ( 8 ) / ( 9 ) / ( 10 ) / ( 11 ) / ( 12 ) / ( 13 ) / ( 14 ) / ( 15 ) / (16 from now on upcoming chaps only on-  AO3  ||  Wattpad  )

☆ Masterlist ☆ ||  ☆ Spotify Playlist ☆

➸ Previous part

➸ Next part - WIP

CHAPTER 15

Under the dimly lit catacombs beneath the Red Keep, the giant skull of Balerion the Black Dread looms. Hundreds of candles encircle the relic, their flames dancing in flickers. The air is thick with the scent of melted wax and incense, and the lights paint eerie, ever-shifting shadows across the walls.

Before the sacred altar of the Conqueror's dragon, two men stand facing each other in solemn silence. A third voice resonates through the chamber, reciting the sacred vows in High Valyrian.

Blood of two

Joined as one

Ghostly flame

And song of shadows

Two hearts as embers

Forged in fourteen fires

A future promised in glass

The stars stand witness

The vow spoken through time

Of darkness and light.

The same old words that had bound countless Targaryens before them, including Maegor's parents. Now they will seal their love in the same manner.

With the officiant's blessing, one of the maesters who schooled them as children and the few remaining in the Red Keep that still have knowledge of old Valyrian customs, Aemond and Maegor each take a piece of dragonglass. They make a small, precise cut on the other's lips, mismatched gaze never looking away from the one violet eye.

Adrenaline and the unquenchable fire roars within both, they were doing this in a rush, in secrecy, wearing their dragon riding armor instead of the traditional wedding robes. There is no time for that now. They are already disregarding the Queen's discovery and disapproval completely. Disregarding everyone, even the start of a new reign.

Who else other than them would have enough audacity and madness?

Above them, Aegon's coronation is unfolding under the Hand's command with or without his younger brother present. Although in less secrecy, the Hightower made sure to be quick to strip Rhaenyra of the rightful claim over the crown and the Iron Throne.

A distant thought gnaws at Maegor's mind. If he was more selfless and less in love he would have definitely tried to stop Otto and prevent the usurping from happening. But he is not.

The warm, wet touch on his forehead quickly reminds him of that, as Aemond marks him with his blood, drawing an old Valyrian symbol.

Fire.

Reminding himself to breathe and not falter from the rush that makes his ears pound, Maegor mimics his uncle, marking the other's forehead as well.

Blood.

The very same words that their house and legacy was built on centuries ago.

Pausing for a moment to suck a silent breath and try to calm himself as best as he can, Maegor nods to his uncle in approval, who in return flashes him a warm smile. Continuing with the ritual, next they make a slice on their palms with the dragonglass, slowly and in synch, allowing the blood that was seeping instantly from the wounds to drip in a silver goblet and mix. With their trembling hands now clasped together, their mingling blood flows from one to the other as they take turns to drink from the goblet. There's no turning back now, no matter the consequences they will face. For all Maegor cares, he'd take on the whole known and unknown world for Aemond.

It's like anything either of them felt before. And when the Princes finally kiss with bloody lips, both are on the edge of delirium. A new kind of force flows through them, far from any natural powers, because this is a sacred oath made with the old blood magic that granted Targaryens their formidable and revered powers. With their blood intertwined Aemond and Maegor are tied together now, not just physically.

One flesh, one heart, one soul, now and forever.

────────────────────────

Emerging from the catacombs bellow and ascending the stairs to the castle's upper levels, the two Princes make their way through the Red Keep in silence, clasping each other's wounded hands as they march through the empty hallways. Their sacred blood oath and union beneath the castle, has bound them together in ways that can never be undone. They have committed to an act and a love that is shunned by many. Now more than ever since the faith of the Seven is starting to gain more influence, thanks to Queen Alicent's endorsement.

But the thing is, it didn't matter. Worthless words coming from the mouths of sheep are nothing to dragons.

Advancing towards the main hall they could hear the distant echoes of Aegon II's coronation ceremony coming to a close. The cheers and applause of the courtiers reverberate through the stone walls, heralding the beginning of a new reign.

Speeding up the pace, Maegor clenches Aemond's hand tighter and grits his teeth. He can already anticipate the chaos.

Reaching the hall of the Iron Throne, they completely pass by the guards, stunned by their sudden appearance , and enter just as the ceremony concludes. Now King, Aegon sits the Iron Throne with the Conqueror's crown on his head. But Aegon doesn't rejoice or drink in the cheers and his newly acquired power like Maegor expected. His older uncle appears exhausted, wearing no smiles, only a blank, distracted expression, as if the crown he bears is a burden too heavy. As if he didn't want this.

Close by Alicent and the Hand, stand beside Aegon, beaming with delight as their plans finally came to fruition. Indirectly, the Hightowers sit on the throne now and Rhaenyra can no longer be Queen. The only one sharing the new King's sentiments is his own wife, Helaena, who looks nervous, fidgeting with her hands and wearing a sad expression.

The commotion of the Princes entrance attracts immediate attention. The cheers stop and a heavy silence falls over the assembly, all eyes turning from the new King to them instead.

Still hand in hand, Maegor and Aemond advance towards the throne, completely aware of the implication of their deed. Nonetheless, both of them hold their heads high and stride onwards with confidence.

Alicent's glare immediately falls down to their clasped hands and she clenches her own into fists, sinking her nails painfully into her palms. She was so lost and distracted with the coronation preparation that she completely discarded the sunrise that left such a sour taste in her mouth. But now she recalls the conversation with her son very vividly in her head. Her face pales immediately. The Queen has to rest one hand against the pillar next to her to keep her from crumbling to the floor as she pieces everything together.

Wed him to me.

Has he completely poisoned your mind?!

Quite the opposite.

Don't be a fool, Aemond, this is a heresy! You will cease this farce at once and Prince Maegor will return to Dragonstone immediately!

Your approval is not necessary, mother, nor did I expect it.

Maegor fixes his sharp gaze on the dowager Queen and her father, holding their eyes with a cold intensity as they slowly grasped the implications of the scene before them. Even those in the hall who are not well-versed in Targaryen customs can discern the significance of the blood-red Valyrian runes adorning both Maegor and Aemond's foreheads, the cuts on their lips and hands, and the unspoken bond that had grown unnoticed until now.

"What is the meaning of this?! What have you done!?" Otto thunders, his fury palpable. His own nephew, the boy he shaped and groomed into the man he is today, to betray him like this. With Daemon's vile mongrel.

"Joined our legacy and strengthened our family at last. We have married in the tradition of our house." Aemond speaks first, calmly. He pays no heed to the gasps and whispers that ripples through the hall but focuses instead on his seething grandfather.

No longer having to hide away with stolen glances and touches, Maegor smiles, drinking his uncle with his eyes as he listens to him speak. He can't tell which he enjoys more, the Hightower cunts seething or hearing Aemond reveal everything so casually to his own family.

"This is madness! You dare bring this abomination into the light during the king's coronation?" Alicent, can hardly contain her outrage. Her chest heaves with indignant breaths as she trembles in anger at the sight of Rhaenyra's offspring, taunting and looking down upon her with a victorious smirk on his lips

"Abomination? Which one of your seven gods told you that, my Queen?"Maegor scoffs, eyeing her lap dog, Ser Criston, as he tenses up quite noticeably.

"This marriage is a farce and a sin! Aemond will fulfill his duty by marrying a woman and siring an heir!" The Queen shouts in desperation at both her son and the younger Prince.

Maegor's teasing smirk falters upon hearing her vehement insistence. He clenches his teeth and exhales deeply, suppressing his impulse to take reckless action.

"My marriage is sacred! You're no Targaryen, you cannot understand. I'll forgive you for this, mother." Aemond raises his voice with authority, leaving Alicent completely dazed.

From the throne, Aegon is silent and despite being very much sober, he is completely stunned by everything unfolding before him as he sucks in a sharp breath. He knows his little brother had balls, just not this big.

"Aemond! How dare you!" The Hand shouts, stomping the stone under him with his foot.

"Enough yapping!" Maegor interjects, cutting through the turmoil with an air of defiance. "Our union stands, and none can contest it, least of all you, Alicent. Your own marriage was a political ploy, devoid of love, and you know it."

"I'll have your tongue for that!" The Queen screams in anger.

Maegor can't help, but let out a laugh hearing her words.

"I'll send a raven to Dragonstone. I'm sure my father will be delighted to teach you."

The mention of Dragonstone irks Ser Criston's temper, and he unsheathes his sword, taking a menacing step toward Maegor. The white-cloaked knights move in with him, daring the young Prince to utter another word.

A soothing touch on his wrist keeps him grounded and in place, preventing Maegor to bring out Nightbringer and escalate the situation first.

"This is an act of treason!" Otto's words do nothing, but amuse him even more than his daughter did.

"Treason? My grandfather's corpse is not yet cold, but you've already usurped the throne and made your nephew king. I should cut your fucking head off and bring it to my mother for this." Maegor bares his teeth and curls his lips as the anger slowly bubbles to the surface.

Ser Criston goes after him before the Hand shouts the command.

"Seize him and hang the traitor!"

The crowd present starts to get loud and scramble away as the white cloaks follow after Criston and go after the Prince. Letting out a sharp breath, filled by the adrenaline, Maegor unsheathes his valyrian sword at last and meets Alicent's faithful mutt heads on, steel clashing against steel. Even if Criston is older and more experienced in duels, he lacks the fire and determination that drive Maegor on. The knight is taken by surprise by the Prince's agility and unpredictable strikes. He barely manages to parry a shot aimed for his throat.

Thankfully the other white cloaks come to his rescue and two of them tackle Maegor away in an attempt to disarm and apprehend him. However, Aemond is not far behind. He rushes to his nephew's side, and doesn't hesitate when he plunges his own sword in the back of one of the Kingsguards restraining the younger Prince. Maegor uses his uncle's distraction so he can cut down the other white cloak with ease. Closing the distance between them, Maegor turns on his heels.

The two Princes stand back to back, their blades drawn, ready to face the remaining white cloaks and Criston Cole that have now surrounded them. Most of the courtiers are rushing closer to the main doorway at the sight of bloodshed, but the rest are too stunned by the actions of the two Targaryens and maybe too curious as well to see everything unfold before their eyes.

"Aemond! How can you turn your back on your family like this!?" Alicent wails in frustration, clutching her head.

"Maegor is my family too, mother. I'm not turning my back on anyone, but I will protect him." Aemond doesn't take his eye off the white cloaks circling around him and his nephew as he speaks.

Pressing his back against Maegor, Aemond makes sure to keep the contact at all times, offering some kind of piece of mind in this situation for both of them, but mainly for his own sanity.

"Side with the traitor and you shall be considered one too! Do you wish the same fate, boy?!" Otto barks.

He's bluffing, Aemond knows it. Together with his dragon he's an asset far too valuable for the Greens. Otto can't afford to lose him, this is just another tactic to make him ponder and reconsider. So Aemond prefers to offer an answer through silence.

Behind him, Maegor doesn't know the Hightower is just using a facade. It takes only an instant for the Hand's words to get to his head and rile him up with fury at the thought of Aemond's alleged execution.

"Fucking do it then, you old cunt. Execute us both for treason and I can promise you King's Landing will turn to ash and rubble." Maegor sneers, gripping the hilt of Nightbringer painfully tight. He's itching to just lunge at the closest knight and spill his insides to the floor.

"I'll have Daemon and the bastards ended before they reach here, you fool." Otto lets out a mocking laugh.

"I thought you were smarter than this, lord Hand." It's Maegor's turn to sneer and click his tongue in disappointment.

In the heat of the moment, his alleged captors have forgotten one crucial detail. Aemond and Vhagar are not the only assets around, the low roar somewhere high in the skies above the Red Keep's spires makes sure to remind them that. It's the strong bond between Maegor and the Cannibal that makes the beast sense his anger and surge of adrenaline rushing through his veins. If harm would come to his rider again, it will be like Sunspear all over again.

"You see, Saagael is quite protective of me. My family is safe in Dragonstone, but yours is here. So plan your next move with more wisdom, Otto." Maegor scans the old man's face as he turns silent, already probably trying to think of all the ways in which he can kill a dragon that size before it levels half a city to the ground.

The tension in the hall grows thicker with every passing moment. The courtiers and nobles who have not yet fled the scene are held rapt by the unfolding drama. Ser Criston and his white cloaks are testing their boundaries, trying to find an opening and split the two Princes apart so that they can get to the target.

In silence, Aegon watches it all from his position on the Iron Throne, his fingers tapping nervously against the armrests as he's leading a battle against himself in his head. He's barely been proclaimed King and he has no idea how to act next. The weight of the crown upon his head is already painful, but he can at least use it to his advantage now.

"Enough! Stand down all of you!" 

All heads turn to Aegon in surprise, even Aemond is very much stunned by his intervention. Maegor throws him a suspicious glare. What is the drunkard playing at?

 The King's command cuts through the turmoil like a knife, and the white cloaks hesitate for a moment. They eventually lower their weapons, stepping back from the Princes. They have no choice but to respect the authority of their new sovereign.

The only one who does not obey is Cole. The knight stands in front of Maegor, weapon still drawn and his pride hurt. It's clear he bears a deep grudge against the young Prince, deep enough to directly disobey the King's order. 

"Hurry up after your soldier boys. Next time I won't miss your throat, Ser Criston." Maegor taunts him on purpose. 

"There won't be a next time, Prince Maegor." 

How did this brawn even end up commander of the Kingsguard?

"Cole! I said stand down." Aegon calls out again. 

This time the knight reluctantly obeys, backing up slowly from the Prince who wears the faintest of smirks on his lips. He can't tell which irks him more about the boy, the fact that he's basically a second Daemon or that his face looks so much like Rhaenyra's. Either way, Ser Criston is convinced he's a demon sent to haunt him for the sins of his past.

"Aegon! Why are you doing this too?!" Alicent pleads. 

"I'm your king now, you shall address me as such." Seeing the pained look on his mother's face doesn't even hurt Aegon anymore. It's his ounce of payback for all the shit he endured from her, especially today. He never asked for this. She forced this cursed crown on his head.

The dowager Queen feels like she's going crazy. Two of her sons decided to rebel against her at the same time. And Aegon, insufferable, worthless Aegon who is sitting on the throne thanks to her turning to bite the hand that fed him all these years.

"My King, you know very well what the punishment for treason is!" Otto's voice almost cracks from the restrained anger at Aegon's audacity.

"What treason? Maegor isn't a traitor for marrying my brother. I don't see a problem with it and neither anyone else should." For a split moment Aegon's normal character comes back as he speaks so casually. 

But he means it genuinely. Ok maybe Maegor hates him, that's alright, he's quite the hot headed loner. However his brother endured more shit than Aegon did from everyone in their childhood, including him . He could at least offer Aemond this. A wordless apology.

Watching the throne before him, Maegor blinks in confusion.  He slightly cocks his head towards Aemond, silently questioning everything with a glance. Next to him, Aemond is just as dumbfounded by his brother's actions. 

"Everyone but the two Princes clear the room!" Aegon barks another sudden command.

Without wasting a breath, the remaining courtiers quickly scramble towards the exit, reluctantly followed by the soldiers and white cloaks, throwing confused glances among each other as they pass in front of the one they've previously tried to apprehend. 

When Helaena leaves, she gives her husband a nod and a warm smile of approval, subtly clapping her hands as she climbs down from the steps leading towards the Iron Throne. The corners of Aegon's lips pull of in a faint smile. He can't even remember the last time he saw his sister actually smile at him.

The last to leave are dowager Queen and the Hand. Both Alicent and Otto Hightower seethe with fury, both their faces flushed with indignation. They crowned him king, gave him all this power and privilege. And what does Aegon do? Takes his side. First Aemond and then the firstborn. It's a clear signal that Aegon will not easily bow to their pressure and do their bidding like he did before he was just Prince. The Hightower's carefully constructed plans have unraveled before their eyes and now they are almost slipping through their fingers.

As he watches his mother exit the throne hall and the heavy, tall door close behind her, Aegon let's out an audible sigh of relief, slumping his tense shoulders. Neither of the three speaks a word, until Aegon decides to get off the throne and join them hesitantly, at the base of the stairs.

"So I'm king and you two are married. What a day, huh?" He takes off the crown that was so uncomfortable on his head so he can study and fidget with it in his hands, before he reluctantly places it back on his head.

"I won't forget what you did. Someday I will return this favor." Maegor awkwardly clears his voice, before Aemond can question his brother.

 It feels so weird saying this to his older uncle, but he means it. An eye of an eye. Aegon gives him a wary look, but quickly replaces it with the sketch of a smirk. Maegor owes him, he can indulge himself in a bit of harmless teasing.

"What's this, an ounce of kindness in your stone cold heart, nephew?" Aegon elbows his side and relishes on how Maegor bites his tongue in annoyance. He takes a step away from him, closer to Aemond instead of lashing out to grab his older uncle by the throat. 

"There was no need for you to do this, but thank you I suppose." Aemond sighs, stepping between them much to his nephew's relief.

"It won't end here." Maegor's expression suddenly hardens as he begins to think of the outcomes. 

All three of them know this. News of the throne being usurped by the Hightowers and Aegon becoming king will soon reach Dragonstone and when they do, it won't be without repercussions. 

Even if Aegon agrees and gives up on the crown in favor of his older sister, Maegor is very doubtful that everyone in the Seven Kingdoms will accept her as Queen. House Hightower is the richest in Westeros, Otto and Alicent will never stand by this, they will plunge the realm in civil war for the grudge they hold against his mother. But maybe, just maybe with Aegon king there can be peace if somehow Maegor manages to convince his parents it's the lesser evil. Who is he kidding? It's a delusional thought, even if miraculously his mother would agree, Daemon will never accept this.

"Return to Dragonstone if you must, Maegor." As if reading his thoughts, Aemond offers a warm touch as he takes his hand into his, temporarily calming the storm in his head.

 Maegor flashes his uncle a grateful, but weak smile for his presence and support. He doesn't know what he would do without him. Aemond is his reason and comfort, the last string of sanity when he feels like he's going mad and cracking under pressure in this world. His everything.

"Only for a while, until tempers calm down." Maegor makes a subtle promise.

"And if they don't?" Aegon dares to ask even if the nauseating hole he feels in his stomach gives him an idea of the consequences.

"We'll just have to drag it out for as long as possible." Maegor tightens the hold on Aemond's hand. A thumb running gently over his faintly scarred knuckles is the silent reply that comes.

"Make sure you won't make it worse, you're quite skilled at that, nephew." Aegon teases. Trying to crack a joke between tensed nerves and grey horizons. 

Truth be told he's terrified of the uncertainty and this new burden he has to bear, but this is nice. And now Aegon deeply regrets the three of them couldn't have bonded in more civilized manners than the foolery in their childhood. He has a feeling he would have liked to know Maegor better, find out why his brother is so smitten with him and maybe even call him a friend. Alas, there's not enough time for that now.

A flash of teeth and the smirk of an accepted challenge is the only crumb the King gets.

"I won't ever give you the pleasure, uncle."

────────────────────────

High in the skies, the weight of the clouds Maegor is so accustomed feels suffocating now. Black wings flap almost silently as Saagael glides with ease, sharing his rider's restlessness through their bond.

After an unbearable farewell, Aemond joined him with Vhagar halfway through the trip back to Dragonstone, before barely bringing himself to turn his dragon away. He returned to King's Landing to help Aegon deal with their own family.

Now it's Maegor's turn to do the same. His father sent him to reinstate his claim over Dorne, instead he returns without it, married to someone his family holds disdain for and with news of the old King dead.

Just as he begins to make out the form of the Dragonstone island in the distance, he swallows the lump in his dry throat. Beneath him, he can feel how the muscles ripple and tense up as the Cannibal let's out a low growl. They have company.

Higher pitched calls, echo in reply to them and Maegor makes out the two flashes of color from the left side as they flank Saagael. White and dark. Astride Arrax and Tyraxes, his younger brothers join his flight from below. The Cannibal lets out a short warning snarl for the unwanted surprise and the two much smaller dragons keep a safe distance, not daring to invade his personal space.

Turning his head to search for the skies, soon enough as expected, Vermax and Jace join them as well. Maegor lets out a groan of frustration that gets drowned by the velocity of the wind.

"The Prince of Dorne returns at last!" Jace calls out as he levels his dragon to fly in parallel with his brother's.

"Why on earth are you flying so far out?! You know Joffrey is not allowed." Ignoring the comment, Maegor shouts back, making sure to glare at his youngest brothers's lack of caution as they close in towards the island.

"I can handle myself too!" Joffrey's cry reaches only as an echo to Maegor's ears as he speeds past them.

Like always, Saagael lands on the grassy clifftop next to the castle, followed by the other smaller dragons. However he does not allow them stay for a moment longer than needed. After their riders dismount and join Maegor, now also on foot, the Cannibal makes sure to bare his teeth and chase away the younger ones. This cliff, where he could watch over Maegor's bedroom window, became his lair ever since the Prince claimed him. An open space, completely opposite from the dark cave he used to call a home.

"You didn't answer my question Jace." As he walks towards the castle with his older brother next to him and his younger ones trailing behind him, Maegor let's out a tired sigh. He wasn't planning on having a welcome party.

"Foolish of me that I hoped you'd be in a better mood after all that praise about conquest."

While he is in no mood for jests and teasing, clearly his brother has other plans.

"Jace." Maegor warns, keeping his eyes locked on the path before him.

"How come Aemond hasn't followed you back like the faithful dog he is?" Jacaerys doesn't get the hint, continuing to poke at the embers threatening to unleash into a blaze of fire.

Before he gets the chance to finish his dumb question, Maegor stops dead in his tracks and turns towards Jace with a cold glare. He doesn't even feel the weight on his side as Joffrey bumps against him, too distracted by the sea on the horizon to notice his older brother come to a halt.

Maegor barely returned home and he's already met with constant pestering and nuisance. Even Aegon had been more agreeable than Jacaerys recently.

"It's just a jest, Maegor, ease off." Jace huffs at him.

Maegor bites his tongue and musters all restraint to not grab his older brother by the collar of his tunic and rough some sense back into him.

"Princess Rhaenys arrived earlier and she's having a private audience with mother and Daemon. We've been told off so we won't disturb them." Luke clears his voice and the tension between his older brothers immediately vanishes.

The color from Maegor's face drains as he suddenly realizes the topic of the audience and Rhaenys's sudden presence on Dragonstone. Without uttering any other words, fueled by adrenaline and anxiety he darts off, running up the stairs leading into the castle and ignoring all the puzzled looks of courtiers and guards. Behind him, his brothers give chase, calling out to him in confusion as they struggle to keep up.

Swinging the doors open, Maegor stumbles inside the hall of the Painted Table where the council is being held. His heart races against his ribcage. Swallowing heavily and calming his frantic breathing, he cautiously steps forward, ignoring his brothers chatter from behind, as they finally caught up with him.

All the eyes inside fall on him. At the head of the table Rhaenyra and Daemon watch his every move, on the other side Rhaenys, cladded in her dragon rider armor gives him a skeptical look.

It was painfully clear that they are already aware of his transgressions. Anticipation gnaws at Maegor as he interprets the expressions on his mother's face—filled with disappointment—and his father's, where anger smolders.

"You better have a good excuse for why you let those cunts take the throne from your mother." Daemon's low voice cuts through him like a blade.

Slumping his shoulder he takes a deep breath, gathering his strength approach the large table, close to his parents. Annoyingly, he can hear his younger half brothers as they start whispering. Now they too found out. Jace lets out an audible groan of frustration as he joins the table, on the opposite side from Maegor. On purpose.

"Answer your father." Rhaenyra demands with a calmness in her voice that irks the young Prince.

"I wasn't there." Maegor confesses in a sharp breath.

The only ounce of luck he has on his side is that Rhaenys was not present for the coronation. She must have left just as it started since she felt too unsafe in the Keep being an ally of Rhaenyra's. And now all she can do is watch his family bicker from the sidelines as she delivered the news of Viserys's death and Aegon's coronation.

"I've sent you to the Red Keep. Where were you if not there, boy?" His son's cryptic answer only manages to thin out Daemon's patience more.

"Where else other than with Aemond? Ever since he's started going crazy for him I don't recognize my own brother anymore!" Jace can't help himself and jumps in, slamming his palms against the table.

"Perhaps you never cared enough to truly know me." Maegor purses his lips and glares back at his older brother.

"Quiet Jacaerys. This isn't about you." Daemon warns and Jace quickly surrenders from throwing back another comment at the younger one. Even if the Rogue Prince is not his father, Jacaerys respects his authority, especially when he's about to snap from anger. What Daemon says, goes.

"Maegor." Rhaenyra demands again, this with a louder tone in her voice and a hint of pain in it.

Lowering his head to look at the intricate carvings on the Painted table, Maegor finally takes a deep breath and summons all of his resolve.

"I married Aemond in the tradition of our house..."

He pauses for a moment to take another long breath as an eerie silence falls inside the hall.

"...during Aegon's coronation."

Hearing these words, Rhaenyra has to grab Daemon's arm for support. She feels a surge a pain worse than a dagger shoot through her pregnant womb.

"You're fucking insane! Do we mean nothing to you!?" Jacaerys yells out to him and Luke has to pull on his arms and tunic to prevent him from going after their brother.

Turning his head, Maegor looks away from his brother and focuses on his parents instead. Waiting for whatever punishment will come.

"You could have stopped them, boy. Burn all of those green rats to a crisp while they were stealing the crown from your mother. But you're a selfish little shit, aren't you?" Daemon's assault is merciless, but Maegor takes every word, lowering his head as he listens to his father talk.

"I will accept the consequences. But I do not regret marrying Aemond."

"Your grandfather barely took his last breath and you were holding a wedding!" Rhaenyra shouts in frustration, clutching one arm over her belly.

"Doesn't it sound familiar? I did exactly what you and father did. While Laena's coffin was sinking to the bottom of the sea and Laenor's remains were still smoldering, you married my father in the tradition of our house. Out of love. And now I did the same with Aemond." Maegor keeps his voice as calm as he can even if frustration was threatening to overcome him.

"This is different! You chose Aemond over duty to your family, Maegor! Where is your honor!?" Rhaenyra pleads.

"Don't talk to me about honor, mother." Maegor barks back, more on instinct than on purpose.

"What did you say?"

In his subconscious, every rebuke he wanted to pour at Rhaenyra's feet was starting to simmer dangerously close to the surface. The hypocrisy was scratching his mind in all the wrong places. Years of restraint and suppression were finally reaching their breaking point.

"I said you're in no place to lecture me about honor. Do you think yourself so righteous, mother?"

"Careful, Maegor." Daemon warns with an eerily calm tone.

"No father, you know I am right! More than half of the realm never took her seriously because my mother couldn't do her duty. Why am I at fault? I didn't bed knights or bring bastards into the world!" The Prince finally snaps. Every drop of pent up frustration was spilling over in this moment.

Maegor's accusations sting like wildfire, and his words leave a heavy silence in their wake. Before either Jace or Daemon can get to him, Rhaenyra does, storming past her husband, despite the agonizing pain and cold sweat she was breaking into. With eyes filled with tears, she doesn't hold back her anger as a flurry of emotions overwhelm her.

A smack across his face leaves Maegor's skin stinging. He closes his eyes shut and lowers his head to be more on his mother's level. He doesn't budge, or retaliates. Just stands still, accepting the punishment.

 It doesn't stop at just one hit, he can feel another one and another one until his cheek goes numb. Then the slaps suddenly stop. Opening his eyes, Maegor sees his mother sobbing and wailing in pain.

Rhaenyra let's out a choked scream and almost collapses to the floor if it weren't for Maegor to catch her. Blood seeps through the lower end of her dress and he inhales a sharp breath, realizing what was about to happen.

"Father!" His voice cracks, but Daemon is already there in an instant.

Anxiety gets a hold of him fast and the previous heated argument is temporarily forgotten as he watches the maesters rush inside the hall. His father carries his mother away with his half brothers trailing behind them full of worry and fear. 

Throwing him a disappointed look, Rhaenys leaves the chamber last. Suddenly, Maegor finds himself standing alone. Lowering his head, he looks down at the small puddle of his mother's blood that gathered under his boots. His cheek throbs with a dull pain while he listens to the screams of agony that echo throughout the whole castle. 

[chellesdump]

Boo Boos - Twice

"The 96’ and 97’ line went to an indoor playground to enjoy some time together, they were having so much fun until an accident soured the mood"

word count ─ 1.4k

tags ─ little! mina, little! jihyo, little! sana, little! momo, cg! jeongyeong, cg! nayeon, fluff, autumn, tw! hurt, tw! someone getting hurt, little angst, but ends with fluff

notes ─ This is for the Injured prompt, my little nibling is the one who chose who was the one to get hurt and how she would get hurt. So enjoy :3

Nayeon had taken the School Meal Club to a playdate in the (G)I-DLE dorm, so the 96’ and 97’ lines had stayed home a little bit bored, they were all lounging on the sofa trying to kill the time ‘watching’ the TV, in reality their attention wasn’t on the show, that was until an interesting commercial came about a new indoor playground with an array of activities to do, from go-karts to a huge slide, ball pits, a mini-mart, and so much more. With a wicked grin they turned to face each other, and that was how the plan came to be; they went to their rooms to change into warmer and comfier clothes to be able to play to their hearts’ content, now they were ready to go and enjoy, not before Jeongyeon told them to get a extra change of clothes since you never know when it would be needed.

The ride there was filled with excitement coming from all of them, talking about what they were doing once they arrived, it was clear to anyone that the girls had regressed on the way, but Jeong wouldn’t have any other way, her children's enjoyment was the most important thing. Upon arrival, she paid the entry fee and everyone ran to the activity they wanted to do, Mina took her hand and guided her to a fighting robot mini arena, you had to get into a robot and try to shoot the rest of the players; the next activity was playing in the Mini-Mart with Sana who was a very strict employee, you were supposed to not take more than 10 items and she was willing to make everyone follow the rule; after playing with Sana, MoHyo intercepted her and took her to the Go-Karts for a race.

When they got off the racetrack after Momo’s win, Jeong got a call from Nayeon asking how they were spending the day at the playground, Jeong went on a rant about how in the future they should bring all the girls since they had also a lot of amenities for the babies with soft play so they wouldn’t get hurt, they even have a nursing room in case they would need it. Jeongyeon spent a while on the phone talking with Nayeon until Momo came running, rambling about something in Japanese, “Mommy quick Mina got hurt I’m scared, it looks bad! Please come quickly, she’s crying a lot!” yelled Momo in a rush pulling Jeongyeon’s hand toward the giant slide, from what she could decipher Mina was hurt, so she rushed there and found Mina on the floor sobbing while clutching her leg.

When she tried to pick Mina up to take her to another place to check her better she let out a piercing scream, so she put her back on the floor and called the emergency service of the playground to check her up and see how serious the injury was. Meanwhile, she got Momo to calm down enough to tell her exactly what had happened, turns out a boy had pushed Mina down and her leg got tangled on the way down and she hurt it; she went towards the boy and demanded why he had done that, he responded that she had taken too much time and he was bored, she located his adult, and told them about exchanging numbers because they needed solving for the issue. After checking her, the emergency staff told her that she had to take Mina to the hospital to get xrays taken because her leg was swollen rapidly, she sent Momo out to find SaHyo so they could all get going, while she picked Mina up and went to grab the rest of their things.

On the way to the hospital, she called Nayeon, “Yeoboseyo? Everything okay Jeongie, you ended the previous call so abruptly” asked Nay with concern laced in her voice, “No jagi, Mina hurt her leg, some boy pushed her and she fell on her leg” replied Jeong throwing glances at the back seat where Mina's leg was on top of Jihyo’s lap being held by the latter, “Tell me you got that boy’s name to have a nice talk with him” mention Nayeon with a saccharine tone. With a low chuckle at her girlfriend's antics, “Of course, I got his adult’s contact info to get a resolve for this later” she responded proudly, “Anyway I was calling to tell you what happened, and where we going. I’m taking her to the hospital near Yongsan, just so you know, ok?”, “Arraseo, let me grab the girls and we’ll be on our way. Love all of you, and keep me updated please love” pleaded Nay, and with an ‘okay’ they hung up.

Once at the hospital, Jeong rushed the girls to sit down in the waiting area while she went to sign Mina up, she told the nurse about her being in Little Space, and who is the doctor they normally see when the girls are little; the nurse told her that he had been paged and would come down in a moment to give her an evaluation, and in the meantime they should wait seated until they are called. While waiting came Nayeon carrying Tzuyu who was snoring away, with her sister in tow pushing DubChae in their stroller who were asleep as well, “Jeongie!? Jeongie where are you!? Oh, there you are. What did they say about Mina” exasperated yelled Nayeon trying to find her family, depositing a kiss into each one of their foreheads, and a big smooch on the lips of Jeongyeon, “The doctor has been paged already so we’re waiting for him, the nurse told me to wait here and that the doctor would come to retrieve us once he came to check Mina. So come sit here with us” responded Jeong patting a seat beside her, after saying a greeting to her sister in law.

They had to wait around 15 minutes more until Dr. Ahn came, he took them to a cubicle and gave a quick examination of Mina’s leg, “Okay I can see that the inflammation is considerable and since there’s much tenderness to the touch I would believe it’s broken, so I’ll need to take an x-ray to make sure of my suspicion.”, he told NaJeong before turning to Mina, “It’s that okay with you gongju? If you want to either one of your eommas can come with you” he calmly said finishing with a smile to ease the little girl's tension, after getting a tiny nod from her, he told a nurse to take her to the x-ray room and bring her back to continue with her treatment.

 Jeongyeon was the chosen one to accompany Mina, while Nayeon stayed with Dr. Ahn so he could begin telling her the treatment plan, “Ok Mina eomma, the plan is putting her in a cast in case of the leg being broken, which is the most probable, I’m also giving her painkillers, anti-inflammatory to help her recover quicker. If it’s fractured in half, or if it’s only a hairline fracture, either way, she must be resting for at least 2 weeks that leg, which means not putting any weight on it, after that time I would like to see her again to re-evaluate the leg and if she follows all the indications she would be walking again. I’m also repeating all this again once Mina and her other eomma come back, so they also know, but this is if you have any questions before uli gongju comeback since it will be more difficult once she’s back”, he informed checking Nayeon was getting all the information, and seeing her shake her head no to the questions. 

After they came back he repeated his explanation, always directing all to Mina to make her feel seen, Jeongyeon was also taken into account but she like Nayeon got everything alright, the only question MIna had was, “Can still play videogames and be with family? An’ medicine will help no hurt no more?” those were her main concerns, with a chuckle the doctor told her she was correct so the family was dismissed to go home, with clear instructions of following indications, that they should book an appointment for 2 weeks in the future, and that they could always contact him if anything arose. With everything in order they went home, where they ate some food chosen by Mina to bring her mood up and lots of cuddles from all her family.

[summerlycoris]

Is It Really A Birthday Party If You Wake Up In A Hospital Bed?

Chapter 3- Hey, this could be the worst day of my life.

Previous chapter- tumblr link

AO3 link-

She could see her plushies panicking around her, trying to ask her questions. "What's your name? Can you squeeze my hands" And she tried to answer them. She told them she was okay, she just needed some more blankets. It must've been edging into winter- Mom had some spare blankets in the linen closet that she could go fetch.

But when she tried to get up, she just couldn't. The plushies- multiples of Roxy, of Chica, of Bonnie, of Circus Baby, even an old Rockstar Freddy she'd got off Gregory when she turned nine- were on top of her weighing her down. She couldn't move an inch. She tried to push them off, but even her arms were heavy. She could feel someone trying to push… a tube? Into her mouth- wait, what?- but it was just Roxy trying to shush her. "We need to be quiet, it could come back any minute."

________

They were on a picnic blanket, on a hillside under a tree. Roxy looked so much like her old self- and it was Cassie's birthday! It must have been, because there was carrot cake and carrot sandwiches and carrotdrop candy and carrot jelly and-

Wait, carrot jelly? Carrot sandwiches?

"Roxy, I like carrots- but not this much!"

"Yeah, I agree. It tastes better in small doses." She said, before passing her a piece of carrotdrop candy.

________

Then she was sitting just in front of Candy Cadet at the daycare. Sun was… where is he?

Anyway! Candy Cadet was gonna tell her a story! "Once upon a time…"

"She was found at the pizzaplex!? I… I was at work until 12am. Who would have taken her there?"

________

"Mom? Please come get me." She was standing at a public telephone just outside the pizzaplex. She'd gone there after school, hoping to catch a ride home with her dad. But he… didn't work there anymore. And mom didn't go there anymore. Nobody worked there anymore. There were newspapers covering up where the main entrance would've been. It was raining so hard- she was soaked through to the bone. She wanted to cry.

________

"Back at my old place, the pizzaplex there was… different" Gregory said. They were at the Fazpad. Gregory was drawing in a journal while talking to her. She was gonna be nine soon. He had just turned eleven, though you wouldn't be able to tell- he was about Cassie's height.

He and Aunt Miskovsky had just moved here. His Mom and her Mom were catching up nearby. Andy was trying to ask questions to his Mom about… well something dumb. Cassie guessed.

But none of that mattered, because she could really make a new friend. She just needed not to blow it. Gregory continued- "They had a Freddy themed disco, and a Bonnie themed bounce castle. It was really fun… Do they have those here too?"

"Umm, they have some cool attractions, but not those ones." She admitted. And saw his shoulders sink down. Is he homesick too? I was, when I first moved here… "But Fazerblast is super cool- it's a Freddy themed laser tag game! I'm sure you'll love it!" And there's Roxy Racers- it's a go-kart track based on Roxy. I've been on it before- it's the best!"

"Wait, Fazerblast, that sounds cool. Do you think our Mom's will let us play in it?" He said, putting down his pencil. He'd been sketching some strange mecha- Freddy, defending the city from mecha- Monty.

"We can ask- Dad got me a play pass when we moved here- it's still valid for a few months."

"I still have mine from home, I bet it could be used here…"

"Then let's go ask! I've got some money in my purse, in case we want any snacks."

They got permission, and ran off towards the Atrium, straight to Fazerblast.

________

Cassie sat down besides her dad, as he fiddled with an animatronic. Perks of having a technician for a dad- daddy daughter days were super cool! He was working on Chica, who stared at her with big, purple eyes. Gregory was on the floor nearby, drawing on some old construction paper. Aunt Miskovsky, a pale lady with wrinkles and dark black hair, watched over him from where she was fixing up Monty.

"Could you give this to Chica? I think she'll need it." Dad said, with a smile in his voice. So she did- lifting up the moldy cheese with one hand, while the other hand put Chica's voice box back in.

Gross gross gross-

________

She was at home, laying on her bed reading a magazine. She could hear Andy in the next bedroom listening to… something? It sounded more like beeping than music, honestly. But then, most of Andy's musical tastes were… experimental.

"Anddyyyy" She whined, and kicked at the wall next to the dining table. "I'm trying to study! Can you quit it?!"

Cassie could hear the guest room door open. Then she saw Andy in the archway, with her beaded braids and thick rimmed glasses, looking like she'd throw her cd player at Cassie's head. But instead, she asked. "Hey Cassie, did you want to hear a story?"

________

"...Roxy said 'But I've always wanted to be the best at racing. If I can't be first, does it even matter?' Foxy looked at her, then laughed. 'Of course it matters, Roxy- not everyone can be first! Most people don't even get second place! You should be proud of yourself. Now go up there and give their hand a shake!' " Mom read from a familiar book.

Cassie knew this story. It was from one of the first books released that had Roxy in it. Dad brought it for her years ago. And now mom was reading it to her. It was like she was six again.

________

Her Mom was mad. Cassie had gotten into trouble at school. She'd bitten Gregory because he'd been cheeky and pressed all the buttons in the elevator, trapping them inside. The principal didn't think ‘but he started it!’ Justified it and had called mom in for a discussion.

Mom walked out of the principal's office, and sat next to Cassie, holding her hand. "They think you got a bacterial infection in your blood first, then it became stepsister…"

"Mom? She's not my stepsister, she's my half sister? Of all people, you should know that…?" Cassie was really confused.

________

She was laying down in a casket. She looked down at herself. Wearing her old Roxy dress that she had to throw away when she was ten, holding hibiscus flowers in her hands clasped to her chest. Red, of course. They were such pretty flowers. There was someone saying the last rites nearby- no, her Mom, Dad, Andy, and the old priest from Salvador were saying it. And Gregory. And Aunt Miskovsky. But they weren't saying it right- wait no, it was in spanish? She laughed- well this was clearly a dream! I know for a fact Gregory can't speak a word of spanish! He'd always come to me for "help" with his homework, even though I know portuguese!

________

She was no longer in a casket. But instead a… hospital bed? Mom and Andy were sitting down next to her. Mom held her hand, stroking her dark-brown fingers across Cassie's right palm. It looked like they had been crying. Cassie squeezed her fingers around her Mom's, and Mom gave her a weary smile. She tried to speak. But still couldn't. Everything around her was so blurry. She could only see Mom, and Andy. Next to her, Cassie could feel something soft- her oldest Roxy plushie, from when she'd first been revealed. The prize of her collection. She wanted to grab it and drag it closer. But her left arm felt weird still. She could feel a cast on her forearm, and see a tube running into her upper arm. She just kept squeezing her Mom's fingers.

"Do you think they'll be weaning her off it soon?" Asked Andy.

"...She'll need to go to surgery first." Mom replied.

________

She was at their old house, in Salvador. It was so beautiful. With two floors, and wild, beautiful hibiscus growing outside. Red, of course. Cassie knocked on the door, and her dad opened it, a big smile on his sun-damaged, tanned face. "Oh, I knew you would find me." He said, as she flung herself at him for a hug.

"What happened to you?" She wanted to ask. But she didn't. He stared at her through the AR Bonnie mask.

________

He wasn't there. Not in the Superstar-Cade. Not at Bonnie Bowl. Not even waiting in line at that awful Roller Coaster.

And she'd been everywhere. She'd double checked and triple checked- looked everywhere for that Freddy hoodie.

She didn't want to think it-

But what else am I supposed to think?!

He'd abandoned her. Made off with her playpass while she was getting her stupid shoes. And now she couldn't find him anywhere.

She was left there, on the third floor balcony. Sitting down out of the way of everyone, near the exit to Bonnie Bowl. Those shoes still held in her hands.

Cassie was just a little girl, in a huge Pizzaplex. Nobody seemed to notice her. Even when her eyes started watering again.

She dropped the shoes to the side, so she could rub her eyes desperately. She didn't want to cry again.

(Maybe that's why he'd gotten sick of me.)

… Or maybe something had happened to him? Maybe he'd gotten lost looking for a bathroom? Maybe he'd seen Freddy and tried to follow him?

Maybe someone had taken him?

That thought sent a shiver up her spine. But nobody could do that, right? There's cameras everywhere- security staff wandering the building…

Someone would've noticed a kid getting spirited away, right?

(... They didn't in those video games.)

Now the self pity left her, to be replaced by dread. She might be the only thing between her new friend's life, and death.

(She wasn't even nine yet.)

She stood up, grabbed her shoes quickly, and looked around. Trying to figure out what to do.

Mom and Dad said, if I'm ever worried about something dangerous, to tell them immediately.

But if she did, Andy would punish her.

“If you go back to Mom or Dad without me, Cassie, I'll give you a haircut. Again. Understood?"

…

What if I'm overreacting?

…

What if I'm underreacting?!

She didn't know what to do.

Everyone entering or exiting Bonnie Bowl was so much taller than her. It was a common teen hangout, after all. It felt like all she could do was hold herself close, and try not to be swept away in the crowd.

Who could she ask for help? Roxy? Bonnie? She didn't know where they were…

Sun. I know where he is.

So she ran off through the crowd, with ‘excuse me’s, and ‘sorry!’s whenever she needed to push her way through a crowd. Down the escalators two steps at a time. She wish she was wearing her new shoes, instead of carrying them- they'd be better for running that her ratty old sandals.

It felt like it took forever to make her way over to the daycare, through the open doorway in Kids Cove. Sun would know what to do. Because he always did. Whenever she ran into an issue at the daycare, Sun would help fix it. Or Moon, both were so nice-

She got up to the slide, with its ‘slide into fun’ sign. There was a barricade in front of it, and a sign at the empty service desk.

The daycare is closed, for… she couldn't read that last word yet, it was too long.

Cassie panted from running so far, hands on her knees. Her mind whirred- she couldn't believe it.

I just need to yell. Even if it's closed, he'll still come out and help me, right?

So she did- “Sun? Moon? Hello? I need help- Can you come out please?”

But nobody came.

She bit her lip, and went to look over the railings, and through the netting.

There was no one there. The cheerful music of the daycare seemed designed to taunt her.

Nobody was gonna help her. She’d picked wrong.

She crumpled to the floor. A lost little girl, in a huge world.

There was the distant sound of a bunch of little feet, racing behind her back to the lobby. Cheering, and laughter that contrasted awfully with how she felt right now. It was like they were making fun of her.

Now she really did cry, loudly, as she threw her shoes at the service desk in frustration.

She couldn't do anything-

There were noises of heavy footsteps behind her, but she barely noticed over her wails.

“Good morning Cassie, you look a little lost today. Are you okay?” she started, and spun around while seated. Her dress getting caught around her feet. Bonnie had leaned down to her level. Besides him, stood Freddy. Had they been at a birthday party?

“I…” What should she say? “I… got seperated from my friend earlier. And now I can't find him anywhere- his name’s Gregory Miskovsky. He could be anywhere by now- Could you… please help me?” she sobbed out, tears still streaming down her cheeks. She tried standing up, but got tangled in her dress. She would’ve fallen over if Bonnie hadn’t caught her. He grabbed her under her arms, and set her upright.

Bonnie and Freddy looked at each other, then back to Cassie. “Of course we can help you. It will be our pleasure.” Said Freddy. He reached out a big hand to her, which she grabbed thankfully. Only being able to hold one of his fingers in her palm.

“Now Cassie, are those your shoes by the desk?” Bonnie asked. She nodded, and he went to retrieve them. “Make sure not to lose them- they are limited edition. You must have worked hard to save for them.”

She nodded again, thanking him. She didn't think they were important right now- but she had worked hard to save up for them.

“How about you come with me? I will take you to the stage- it is a good place to spot people from- while Bonnie and my friends go looking elsewhere for Gregory.” She nodded, then he led her away, back the way she came.

She could see Bonnie heading out, towards the lobby. And could feel the sensation of someone staring at her. But she was too focused and upset to turn around and find out who.

She wiped at her eyes with her free arm, trying not to get her tears on those shoes.

________

Cassie didn't like it when people stared at her. She didn't like it at school, she didn't like it at the shops. And she especially did not like it here. She was in a hospital? She couldn't move an inch. Her legs were propped up on… pillows? So it was hard to see over the blanket. Her left wrist had a tight bandage on it now. A man was staring at her. That tube was still in her throat. She could feel something in her nose, too. He just keeps staring.

She wanted to slap him. Throw some words at him that mom would skin her for using. But she couldn't move and she couldn't speak. How can an open room feel so claustrophobic anyway?

________

Now he was on the other side of the bed. Just great.

Bad news! The tube was still in her throat!

Worse news! This jerk is stealing my blood! She could see it coming away from her in tubes that fed into a strange box that was full of her blood. He was fiddling with the box. She tried to protest, but he was on the left side of the bed. When she went to hit him, she missed miserably. She tried to pull out the tube down her throat, to give him a piece of her mind-

________

Next thing she knew, she was watching an old movie with Gregory. Brazil- her favorite.

His Mom was busy- night shift. Cons of having a technician for a mom- they're not always home... So he was staying the night with them, as usual. It was the weekend, so Cassie had managed to convince her parents to let them stay up late and to have the family room to themselves! Perfect! Add some microwave popcorn, and a soft blanket to wrap around themselves, and it really was perfect. Her hand was intertwined with his, as they leaned into each other's shoulders.

Cassie was eleven. She was watching a dumb old dystopia flick right next to her best friend, and she wasn't scared of anything.

________

She went from being so happy, to feeling miserable so quickly that it was like she'd been slapped.

Cassie was alone. It was her twelfth birthday party. And nobody had bothered to show up. She could feel tears welling in her eyes as she slumped down near the bathrooms at the Glamrock Beauty Salon.

She'd invited some of her ‘friends’ from school. But I knew they only kept me around as a backup friend, someone to laugh at behind my back… just didn't want to admit it…

What really hurt was that Gregory hadn't turned up. Because she trusted him to be there. Because he'd said he would be. But the party had started an hour ago. He wasn't coming. Nobody was. She'd got all made-up for nothing.

Mom and Dad tried to keep her spirits up, until she excused herself to the restrooms so she could cry in peace.

She sat there, curled up for a while. Hoping Roxy would hear her and come back for her. Hoping no one would see her. Until she heard footsteps. She looked up- and there was Gregory! He was holding a tissue out to her, knelt beside her. "Sorry I'm late. You know I wouldn't miss it for the world."

(No, no, no, that's not how it went-)

She reached out to grab it, only to grab her Dad's worn old hand instead. She could see the veins through his knuckles.

He was kneeling beside her. "Hey, Cass? We just got a phone call off Jemima…"

She sniffled. "Aunt Miskovsky? Does she know where Gregory is?"

He just looked at her. Her heart sank. Something's really wrong.

"How about you come back with us? We'll have some carrot cake and… we'll talk there, okay?

(Not okay not okay not okay-)

________

She could feel Roxy threading her fingers through her hair again. She did it! She got Eclipse! She came back for me. Cassie opened her eyes, and saw Andy beside her instead, singing a little song in Portuguese under her breath. One of those nursery rhymes you'd sing for a little kid. But Cassie was thirteen now! I'm not a baby anymore, jeez!

…

As much as she hated to admit it though, it was comforting.

Andy kept running her dark-brown fingers through Cassie's hair. This time. This time, Cassie didn't miss, placing her hand on top of Andy's. Andy's eyes widened, then she asked- "You're really waking up this time?"

She tried to speak. She wasn't surprised to find out that stupid tube was still there. She squeezed Andy's hand instead.

"She's tolerating the awakening trial so far. If she keeps stable, we may be able to run a spontaneous breathing trial today. '' Said a man's voice. Cassie looked to her other side- and there was the blood thief! Writing some notes into a clipboard, and chatting quietly to a lady beside him.

I thought he was just a bad dream?!

Cassie could feel her eyes widen as she tried to get away. She couldn't sit up, or move her legs, so it didn't work. But she still tried. And Andy seemed to understand she was upset, because she started to try and sooth her "Hey, it's okay. Mom will be back soon- she just needed a coffee. She's coming back, Cassie, you're gonna be okay." She turned to the man. "She's so confused-looking. Is this normal?"

"Yes, it's normal to be confused after sedation." He looked up from his clipboard, straight at Cassie. Cassie couldn't help shivering. He must be a vampire or something. He's ashen enough for it- I bet he's hiding fangs too! He looked up at the monitors. "Maybe I remind her of someone? She's getting upset again- could you take over for a few?" The nurse nodded, and he stood up to leave.

Everything was so confusing for Cassie. Breathing trials? Awakening trials?! She'd been expecting to wake up in the tunnel, when Roxy brought Eclipse back-

Instead she was hooked up to some weird machines- the kinds you'd see in some medical drama on tv. She had the tube in her arm, what felt like a smaller tube up her nose, and the most annoying one down her throat. She could also feel some sticky things stuck to her chest- with more wires coming away from them through the neck of her gown. And there was a doctor-thingy (She… couldn’t remember the name?) Stuck around her left thumb. It was also attached to a wire, leading to the monitor. Her bed was tilted slightly, but straight. So that her feet were down, but her head was up. She could barely move- just being able to wiggle her fingers on her left hand at the moment. It felt like there was something around her right leg. And honestly? She felt sick. It'd be a miracle if she didn't throw up. She didn't want this weird vampire anywhere near her- thank goodness he was leaving! He went left, behind the curtains.

Andy reached over and grabbed the Roxy plush from the left side of the bed, and passed it to Cassie. She nearly forgot it was there. She clutched it to her chest for a bit and her breathing leveled off, until she heard a door open- and Mom was there, walking in from the right. Andy withdrew and stood back, as Mom rushed over to Cassie's side, filling the chair Andy had been in. She put her coffee down quickly, on a little side table, then grabbed Cassie's right hand and held it tight with both of her hands.

"Oh my goodness…my baby girl…" Mom choked out. Cassie's heart hurt, seeing her Mom cry. Because Mom never cried. Not even when…

She wanted to ask so many questions. Needed to know so much.

"Mom, don't overwhelm her. She's probably got a lot going through her head right now."

Her Mom nodded, and just kept clenching Cassie's hand, as Cassie slowly calmed down again taking deep breaths. Andy excused herself for a moment. "Just gonna grab something, be right back." And for a while, everything was still.

The nurse stopped standing and checking monitors, and sat down instead, looking at Cassie expectantly. "Good morning Cassiopeia, my name is Nurse Harris, and I'll be helping you today."

Cassie frowned. Don’t call me Cassiopeia- especially if you can't pronounce it right! But she couldn't say that yet. Mom stepped in, though- "She prefers to be called 'Cassie'."

The nurse let out a small laugh. "Well, that's good to know- Cassie, we're going to have to run a few little tests on you, okay? It shouldn't be hard- it's just to check whether you can stay awake, or if you need a little more sleep."

Cassie nodded slightly. She couldn’t move her head much, due to the tube.

The nurse quickly checked her clipboard. "I'd ask you to open your eyes, and to look at me, but you've already done that- you're ahead of the curve!" This is a little patronizing… Cassie thought. "Could I ask you to squeeze your Mom's hand? Big squeeze now."

Mom stopped clenching her hand so tightly, so that Cassie could grip it. And she did. She swore Mom stopped crying when she did. Nurse Harris made another mark on the clipboard, and rechecked the charts. "You're doing well, Cassie. We may be able to get you off the ventilator today. But we'll have to see if you can breathe without much help first. Would you like to give it a go? If you do, give Mom's hand a squeeze."

She did want to give it a go. So much. Anything to get that dumb tube out of my throat. She squeezed her Mom's hand super tight, letting go when she saw Mom wince.

She wished she could say sorry. She wished she could say a lot of things.

Like a knight in varsity-jacket-wearing armor, Andy returned. And she returned with a glittery purple notebook and pen. Holding it above her head like she'd just caught a huge fish, instead of a small book. "Ta-da- this'll make things easier!" She passed the notebook to Mom, and the pen to Cassie. "You can't use words right now- but your arms aren't painted on- use them to talk to us!"

"Andromeda, could you please behave? There are other patients resting nearby." Mom scolded.

Andy just shrugged, and sat down at the foot of Cassie's bed. "Well, they weren't bothering to be quiet last week..."

Mom just tutted, and opened up the journal, holding it out in front of Cassie. They were all on the same page, figuratively and literally.

It's kinda like writing on a whiteboard, but with more give, thought Cassie, as she tried writing on the page. "I'm Sorry."

"'I'm-' What? Cassie, you don't need to apologize. I'm just glad you're safe. It's whoever took you there that needs to apologize." Mom said, sweeping some loose hair away from Cassie's eyes. Cassie felt her eyes get watery, and tried to blink it away.

She asked for the book back by tapping it, and added a question below- "Where am I?"

While she was writing, Nurse Harris was changing some stuff about the throat tube. Disconnecting it in one place, and attaching a different piece. "Make sure to stay calm, and breathe, okay? It might feel a little weird at first."

Cassie nodded, then wrote another question on the page- "Where's Roxy?" She tapped the book to get Mom's attention. Mom started, then turned the book to read it.

"Cassie, you're at the children's hospital in St George. You've been here for about two weeks now… and Roxy?" Mom looked up at Cassie disappointedly. "Did you go to the Pizzaplex by yourself? For that robot?"

Cassie shook her head, as much as the tubes and cords allowed it. She felt strange, as her lungs had to work harder now. The nurse was right- it did feel weird. She gestured for the book back.

"No. Went to find Gregory. Roxy SAVED me." She wrote.

"... She saved you? Starbright, the firefighters and paramedics did. They got an anonymous tip that a young girl was trapped under the pizzaplex. They searched and searched, and found you."

"Though, Mom, they did find her with Wolfie and Flatface. If they hadn't been making such a ruckus, they could have missed her. Maybe she remembers that?" Andy chimed in.

Cassie frowned. Don't call them that! She wished she could yell at Andy.

Andy at least had the decency to look sheepish. "Fine- fine! Roxy and Sun. Don't look at me like that."

"...You went there for Gregory? But he's been missing for so long now. Did you see him anywhere?" Mom asked, eyes wide.

Cassie gestured for the book back, and had to think about how she'd answer this. She didn't want to lie, but the answer was… complicated. Too complicated for right now. So she wrote back "No."

The nurse kept looking at her, it was getting a little much, honestly. Cassie really didn't get all of this- sure, she broke some bones. But two weeks? Stuck asleep? It didn't make sense to her. Couldn't they have just put her in a few casts and sent her home?

"What happened to me? Why was I sleeping?" Then tapped the book again.

Mom read the page, and Andy read over her shoulder. "Oh, that's a long story, Cassie." Said Andy. And then Mom started explaining.

________

So, from what Mom could understand and explain, Cassie caught an infection during her misadventures. They didn't know when or how, only that she caught something. (I can guess a few places…) It got into her blood, probably through one of the many cuts and grazes she'd picked up falling out of vents, being forced through sewage, scrambling around the catwalks. So on, so on. And then her body decided to be a drama queen and majorly overreacted.

("So you know colds?" Andy remarked "They make you sneeze and cough and everything's awful? But it's not really the cold doing that- it's your body reacting to the cold. That's how sepsis is- except it can shut down your organs if it gets bad enough. Fun, huh?")

The rescuers found Cassie in the Atrium, being fussed over by "two robots" (Eclipse and Roxy- so they did find me!) But she hadn't been breathing right, and had been really loopy, giving them nonsense answers. (I can't remember any of that…) she wasn't really conscious, so they intubated her so she could breath, sedated her when she started to wake up, and brought her here. At first they hadn't realized she had sepsis- thinking this was due to her concussion. Her heart and lungs had started to give up before they realized what was going on.

She was asleep so long because her body needed to get better, and give her heart, and lungs a chance to heal. "They even had you on an ECMO machine for a while." Mom said. Cassie wanted to ask what that was, but didn't want to interrupt the story.

Because it wasn't over yet! She'd broken four bones between two legs, one bone in her wrist, and they needed to be managed. Once she was stable, she'd been sent in for surgery to fix the fractures, and for spinal fusion surgery.

This time, Cassie did need to interrupt the story. She gestured frantically for the book, then scrawled "spinal fusion?" Into it. Then she let Mom read it.

Mom and Andy looked at each other for a second, and Cassie started to worry. It couldn't have been that bad, right? My arm hurt worse…

But she wasn't silly. She knew she'd been lying to herself about it. And now she'd just have to deal with it. Even if the worry was now a pit weighing her heart down.

"Well… no one knows how you did it. But you got really hurt at the pizzaplex. They think you must've fallen… did you try to climb through the roof to get in?" Mom asked.

"Or did someone push you?" Asked Andy.

Cassie shook her head to both questions. How can I tell them what happened to me? They'll think I'm crazy…

Mom sighed, and continued. "You damaged your spine, around… L-1?" She looked to the nurse, who took over.

"You had a burst fracture at the first lumbar vertebrae and the twelfth thoracic vertebrae. This has done some damage to your spinal cord- but now you're awake, we can find out just how it'll impact you. It's not a complete break- so you may be able to feel your legs, or even move them again. We'll have to check if you're out of spinal shock first."

Cassie looked at her in confusion, luckily, the nurse explained quickly. "Spinal shock can happen when you first get injured- it makes you feel like you can't move- or can't feel anything- below the break. Did you feel like that after your accident?" Cassie nodded. The nurse nodded back. "It usually goes away a few days or a week after the injury. Spinal fusion is just how we fix your spinal column- by fusing the vertebrae to one another."

Cassie spent some time thinking about it. It was a lot to take in, and she didn't know how to feel about it. Worried? Sad? Angry? I mean- at least I'm alive… it could be worse… that wasn't a very reassuring thought. Would she have to use a wheelchair forever? What would that mean for her? Would people make fun of her for it? She didn't really do sports, so that was one less thing to worry about. But she had other things she wanted to do in life! One job that wasn't a pipe dream- that she really could be good at! She needed to know!

She gestured for the book back, scrawled her question, then let Mom and the nurse read it. The nurse struggled to keep a straight face, while Mom just sighed. Andy started reading over their shoulders.

"If I can't walk, can I still be a cosmetologist?"

Everything was still for a second, then Andy burst out laughing. Despite Mom asking her to shush angrily. Cassie felt a wave of embarrassment course down her back.

Shut up Andy! You just don't get it… whenever there's big time cosmetologists on tv- they're always walking around doing things. They're never stuck in a wheelchair! This was really frustrating her. And she hated how everyone was acting like she was silly. This is my future… It matters to me!

"Cassie, you dope- of course you can! The models are gonna be sitting down anyway, right?" Andy wheezed out.

Cassie glared at her, until the nurse stepped in verbally. "Even if you can't walk again- and we don't know that you won't be able to yet- there should be accommodations that can be made for you. Maybe you should ask your case manager about this, when you meet them?"

Cassie nodded. She really wanted to change the subject. She tested out her left hand. She couldn't feel any pain in her wrist anymore- but they had said she'd had surgery on it, so that made sense. Her fingers clenched around nothing, and she could slowly lift her arm

Perfect.

She got it out from the covers, and grabbed the book from Mom, who was telling off Andy. ("Cassie! Don't snatch- Andy, I'm not done with you….") She couldn't hold it for long- even a small book was too heavy for her- so she dropped it on the bed, just in front of her. The first page was pretty full, so she flipped the page. An empty canvas.

Turning the book sideways, she wrote in big letters "Can I please get the tube out please?" She looked at it for a second, then added some lines underneath for emphasis. And quickly drew some stars in the blank space, she didn't want it to look too pushy. Afterwards she handed it to the nurse with her right hand.

The nurse read it over. "It's been over two hours now, and you're feeling okay?" Cassie nodded. "Your breathing looks fine- but I'll need to talk to the respiratory therapist first, okay?" She got up, passed the book back to Cassie, and walked left past the curtains.

A few moments went past, and then she came back with Cassie's new best friend, Mr Vampire. Cassie clutched the notebook to her chest, then remembered- I can say things now, and wrote a message to him. Flipping around the book so he could read it.

And he did. " 'What did you do with my blood?'... What blood?"

Mom had now stopped arguing with Andy, and started paying attention to this. "Cassie, please don't be rude to the doctor."

I'm not being rude! I'm just asking… He's probably not a real doctor anyway.

She wrote another message, and showed it to him. "I saw you with that weird machine, taking my blood. What did you do with it?"

Did you drink it? You drank it, huh?

The nurse answered. "Oh, I think I understand- she was only mildly sedated for a bit, didn't she see you at the ECMO machine?" She said to the doctor.

He laughed lightly, then said to Cassie: "I didn't think you'd remember that." He explained what an ECMO machine did, then clarified- "Trust me- we made sure to put your blood back when we were done with it!" He smiled. He didn't have any fangs in his mouth.

Cassie let her shoulders relax. "And don't worry, Mrs Oliveira-Mathers, I've heard worse from other patients after coming out of sedation." He followed up, to Cassie's Mom.

Turning back to Cassie, he introduced himself, then started talking over how the extubation would go. (Including explaining what an ‘extubation’ was to Cassie.) Basically, they were going to take out the tube to replace it with a mask over her face. And if she could still breath well afterwards, they wouldn't have to put it back in. They used what looked like a little vacuum first (and said it was to help keep her airway clear), and tested to see if she could cough.

"It might feel uncomfortable. And you may have a sore throat afterwards. You'll need to take a deep breath, and then cough as it's removed, okay?" She nodded, and he started to remove the tube. She took a deep breath- and was glad, because it took a bit for the tube to start moving. It really did feel weird- too weird. Mom ran her fingers over Cassie's palm again, to help keep her calm. She shut her eyes and coughed a few times- honestly less because she'd been asked to, and more because her body was screaming at her to get it out.

And then it was out, and she gulped in some quick breaths before he secured the mask to her face and helped her settle back into the bed. All of it. The writing. Getting that tube out. Dealing with emotions. It was all so much.

Mom clenched her hand again, and asked "How do you feel?"

Cassie nearly went for the pen and book again, laying next to her. Until she remembered- she (hopefully) didn't need it anymore. It took a few tries, but she was able to squeak out " 'M okay." It came out in a whisper. Her throat felt sore and dry, like her voice didn't want to work yet. She coughed again. Her left hand found the Roxy plushie again, and pulled it close.

She took a few minutes just to breathe and calm down again. Then she said to the man " 'M sorry for tryna hit you. A few days go."

He smiled at her, then kept taking notes. "I hadn't even realized, don't worry about it, Cassie."

She nodded, then asked a question. "Can I gona sleep now please? 'M tired."

"That should be okay. We'll keep an eye on you, okay?" The nurse said.

Mom let go of her right hand and leaned in to kiss her forehead. "When you're less tired, we'll do something special." Which Cassie didn't really get- what kinds of special things could be done in an ICU?

Cassie closed her eyes, and pulled the plushie up over her eyes to keep the bright lights out. "G'night."

It didn't take long for her to have her first real sleep in a while. And this time, there were no weird dreams to confuse her.

________

When she woke, it was just after 6pm. She still had the nose tube in and the face mask on, and all the various cables and tubes that connected her to machines. But all in all, she was going okay. The respiratory therapist and the nurse were there, and told her she'd done well while she was sleeping- She'd been breathing okay, and it didn't look like she would need to be reintubated.

"Oh, good." Her voice was still croaky, and throat was still sore. But talking came a bit easier now, and they were able to give her some water.

("You can swallow around your nasogastric tube. So feel free to try eating and drinking. Remember to have small bites if you eat, and small portions in general. Small sips of liquid as well.")

She could really get a feel for where she was now- a hospital (duh), but in a little section of the PICU. There was a clock on the far wall that Cassie could read if she focused. There were curtains drawn to her sides, to give privacy to the other patients. But she could hear what sounded like a dad and their kid talking to her left.

She could also hear the muffled sounds of a tv. But she couldn't see it yet. Maybe she'd be able to later, if they moved the curtains? Besides her head, on both sides, were machines that were making little noises and beeps. The Roxy plushie had been moved down to her side while she slept.

Mom and Andy were not there. Something which made Cassie feel a little uneasy. "Where's Mom?" She asked the nurse.

"Your mother and sister went out a little earlier, they said that they needed to grab a few things. But they also said they'd be back soon." She thought for a bit. "They left some magazines and books under the chair, did you want something to read? Until they get back?"

Cassie nodded, and was given a magazine. It was hard to read it laying down, but she could hold it resting against her chest with both hands. The magazine was her copy of her favorite magazine- Girl Guide. She’d brought it just before… but she hadn’t had much of a chance to read it.

It, as always for the August edition, had a section for back-to-school outfit ideas. Which Cassie beelined towards. Also, there were puzzles throughout, some confessions, and movie previews.

She was slowly working through a crossword puzzle (well, more like stuck on a crossword puzzle) when a nearby door opened, with Mom and Andy coming over to her bed. They'd been away for a while- the clock read 7:30 now.

"Sorry for being late back. Traffic was awful." Andy said. She was holding two wrapped gifts in her arms. There was a foil balloon with ‘13’ written on it tied around her wrist. Cassie slunk back in embarrassment. Oh no…

Mom was holding a box, with a smaller box on top. She put the small box at the foot of Cassies bed, then gave the bigger box to the nurse and doctor. "Thank you for looking after her so well." From the look of the packaging, it was a box of carrot cake. They thanked her, and the nurse took it away from view. Then Mom grabbed the small box, and came around to sit next to Cassie again.

Cassie didn't want to be rude, or ungrateful. But it wasn't her birthday anymore, and she didn't understand why this was happening now. Or here.

It's a bad place for a party.

Andy tied the balloon to the foot of her bed, as Mom said "Happy birthday, Starbright." And leaned in to give her a hug.

Andy sat on the left side of the foot of her bed, next to the balloon, and passed one of the gifts to Mom. "It's a little late, but better late than never right?"

Before she went to the pizzaplex, Cassie hadn't bothered planning a party for her birthday. She'd just asked Mom if they could have dinner at home- maybe order a pizza in- and if Mom could take a night off work to spend with Cassie. To watch dumb old movies with her.

Mom had agreed to it, and if Cassie hadn't gone to the pizzaplex the evening prior… Well, she probably could've had a nice night, watching Blade Runner or something with Mom on the couch. Scoffing down popcorn and pizza. And, of course, some carrot cake.

"Oh! Should we sing 'Happy Birthday?'" Asked Andy, to break the silence.

Cassie shook her head. "Please don't." She whispered. Andy didn't start singing to mess with her, which Cassie appreciated.

The doctor said he'd leave for a little "To give you some privacy."

Mom ran her fingers through Cassie's hair. "I guess this is a bit… different than what you'd asked for." She looked so disappointed. Cassie felt guilty, seeing that face.

Cassie forced a smile to her face. "No, Mom… I was just surprised! This is great, thank you."

Mom's face lightened up a bit, and she gave Cassie another kiss on the forehead. "We'll start with gifts first, this one's for you." She handed Cassie a small box.

Cassie started ripping the paper off, but needed a bit of help with the more stuck down sections. She got it open, and it was a box for a phone. Not a smartphone- Mom didn't believe in giving kids too many gadgets. Oh yeah, wasn't Mom saying she'd give me a phone when I turned thirteen? Previously, she'd been relying on using the landline phone for calls. And sending messages to Gregory over the FazFans forum on her laptop for school. "Thank you, Mom. I forgot about this."

Mom grinned. "If you don't break it, I'll get you a smartphone when you're sixteen, okay?" Cassie nodded.

Afterwards, Andy handed Cassie her gift. It was wider, and skinny. Cassie wondered what it could be- she hadn't been expecting more than a phone call off Andy for her birthday, and a card in the mail.

She got it open, and it was a set of makeup. Including some nail polish, some blush, some lipstick, all in the coolest colors. "Thank you, Andy. This looks so cool."

"This isn't kiddy makeup Cassie- smudge proof- least that's what the sales lady said. So don't waste it!"

"I won't." She put it next to the phone box. Then Mom opened up the small cake box. Inside was a small piece of carrot cake. Just a little rectangle really. With two more pieces left in the box for Mom and Andy.

She grabbed her square while still laying down, as Mom and Andy said "Happy birthday" together. She thanked them again, took the mask off and took a small bite out of her piece. It tasted wrong, mixing with the residual flavor of the tube that had been in her mouth earlier.

Roxy's wrong- it's worse in small doses. She could feel her eyes getting watery.

Mom gave her another hug, and kept her pressed close, trying to console her. She could feel Andy move up the bed, and place a hand on her shoulder as Cassie sobbed weakly. Her thoughts ran in circles- Was it worse than last year's birthday party? Her birthday this year had already been a wash- being betrayed by her bestie was worse than him going missing last year had been- but this party. Did it even count? It didn't feel like it should. Any party where you're at a hospital shouldn't count.

With that, Cassie came to a resolution.

This year doesn't count. Next year… next year I'll do it right. I'll have a party, and have friends to invite, and have fun, and the carrot cake won't taste bad! She rubbed at her eyes, and clung to Mom.

All she'd have to do was make some new friends.

It shouldn't be too hard. Right?

~~~~~~~~

Author's note- yeah, I know St George doesn't have a children's hospital. In our universe. But in the fnaf universe… children seem to have an absolutely abysmal time and you would NEED a children's hospital near Hurricane, at least. (Really, you'd want a children's hospital anywhere a Freddy's location opened.)

Cassie's dreams are a mix of dreams, distorted memories, accurate memories, and delusions brought on by seeing or hearing things she can't understand while sedated. Most of the distorted memories are hopefully obvious enough.

Also, I needed to try and keep canon compliant with GGY. When introducing Gregory's past in this chapter. Which is harder than you would expect. Because GGY shouldn't be possible with the school system Washington county has (I checked)- they have intermediate school for grades 6-7, and middle school for grade 8-9. Gregory, Tony, and Ellis are in year 7. But pass a year 8 kid in the hallway. That shouldn't be possible. Or fictional!Hurricane just has a combined middle school. Or the story of steel wool era fnaf doesn't even take place in washington county, in which case my story is just. Immediately wrong on a fundamental scale. Oops!

My brain hurts. This franchise man... Oh well, I cannot control the hyperfixation. It controls the me.