#because they are throwing her mother in law a birthday party

[transgaysex]

i hate my older sisters parents in law so muuuuucch

[violetrainbow412-blog]

Birthday wishes [S. R.]

Spencer Reid x fem!reader

Word count: 6.4k

Summary: everyone seems to forget Spencer's 30th birthday, but he only cares that you remember it.

second part here!

contents: childhood best friends, idiots who-don't-know-they're-in-love, surprise parties, pure fluff honestly

If you like my work leave a comment or reblog, that would make me very happy!

The first thing Spencer did when he got home was get rid of his converse and even though it had been a relatively calm day he was exhausted, so he went straight to the bedroom to throw himself on the bed. He lay back for a while, just enjoying the calm, and then he fumbled for the cell phone in his briefcase. He hit the call button on the contact he'd wanted to talk to all day and then he waited patiently.

“L/N family residence, who do you want me to contact you with?”

"Hello, is Miss Y/N by any chance?"

"Who's looking for her?" you continued and a smile escaped from his lips. It was usual for you to respond in a silly way when he called you, so he was used to it by now.

"Her best friend, Dr. Spencer Reid"

“Spencer Reid? Spencer Reid, I don't think that sounds familiar…” you teased, hearing him snort from the other end of the line “Ah! Wait, I remember you."

“After knowing each other for like 20 years, I hope so” he laughed, and then you too.

Sure enough, the man and you were friends from a very early age. You were his neighbor when he lived in Las Vegas and your parents had always been quite nice to the family, knowing the delicate situation they faced, so it wasn’t difficult for you to become friends. You were the first friend he ever had, a real one, so there was a special fondness between you, even when he had gone off to college at such a young age and distance had subsequently separated the two of you.

You always called each other and every time he visited his mother it was a law that you also received a visit, even if the time was only enough for you to greet each other with a hug. You also traveled to DC a few times because of your work and you even had your own key to his apartment, so if he was busy with a case, you could stay there instead of paying for a hotel. Your relationship was like that of a brother and sister, although as this familiarity grew, it was slightly intervened by loving feelings that you didn’t want to face yet but were definitely there.

You knew a lot about his life from those long-distance calls that happened at least once a week, and right now he was excited about something in particular. He was exactly one week away from his thirty-year birthday, and he hoped that, like every year, you would fly from Las Vegas to see him. It was a tradition, whether it was thunder or lightning, you two hadn't missed a single birthday from the other since he had to move out of state. So Spencer was hoping that this call was for you guys to plan what you were going to do; regularly your birthdays were in restaurants or nice places and his were at home, with food delivery and classic movies, or when you felt very adventurous you could go to a museum or just walk through the streets.

"How are you, Reid? How is everything?"

"Not so good, but not so bad either" he laughed "And you?"

"Everything has been terrible, it's like a curse is on my head, I swear" you complained. Spencer got up from his comfortable position to sit on the bed and although he knew that most of the time you said things like that you were just exaggerating, this time he had a bad feeling.

"Why?”

You started to tell him about the financial problems you were going through and he, with his mind still focused on your visit, thought about offering to pay for your flight to DC, but his spirits fell completely when you told him that you were being put under too much pressure at work.

“We're going to have a meeting next Friday with HR to discuss responsibilities and so on, but honestly I don't think things will get better. Right now I'm working from home because there are pending issues that have to be resolved as soon as possible and I barely have time to think during the day, you seriously can't imagine how busy I've been.”

When you finished the story, he remained silent, feeling his chest squeezed by the direction that things were now taking. With that scenario, your visit was too complicated and he was debating internally about whether he should tell you something about it or not. As he had thought before, the money to have you with him wasn’t a problem, but dealing with the issue of your shortened times was totally different. He didn't want to make you feel guilty for not being able to go, let alone disrupt activities that he knew were important to you, like that meeting you just mentioned. So what should he do? He wanted you to be there, but he wasn't going to make you.

“Crash? You still there?" you asked. Only you and his mother called him that, since his nickname had arisen when he was just a child due to his clumsiness, a trait that, in your opinion, he still retained. It wasn't offensive coming from you, even he was glad to know that this was something that belonged to the two women he loved the most.

"Yes, I'm here. I just was thinking"

"You always do, I don't think there's a single second when that mind of yours rests," you said amused "Anyway, what's new?"

Spencer hoped that you would at least apologize to him for your future absence or ask him what he intended to do today. But you seemed not even aware of it.

“Nothing, really. Today we're done with a case and if I'm lucky I'll be able to rest this weekend” he murmured. Sometimes he would tell you things about the cases, omitting bloody and dangerous details, so he leaned back and started recounting all the events into the speaker of his phone.

You two continued to talk for almost an hour, but the topic of the birthday didn't come up once and Spencer didn't try to bring it up. After all, there were still a few days to go and in the worst case, you could at least call him that day to congratulate him, right?

But as the days went by, the anxiety ate him more and he even called you a few days after that, but he only received a response from your mailbox and after a few minutes a short text message where you explained that you were a little busy with work, but that you would call him as soon as you could. The fact that during those days he found out that the entire team already had something to do on Friday didn’t help his mood too much.

Hotch and JJ discussed a sleepover for Henry and Jack after work, he overheard Garcia and Morgan agreeing to visit a new bar for the night, Rossi said he was going to visit one of his ex-wives and when he thought he could still invite Emily to hang out, she went over to talk to him about the therapist appointment that she clearly didn't want to go to, but had to. There was no remedy, everyone had plans for his birthday and he didn’t want to interfere with them. Resignation was the only thing the doctor had left during the remaining days, and when he least expected it, the entire week had already passed.

He used to wake up to your off-key version of the birthday song and a cupcake with a candle stuck in it, then you'd make breakfast and you'd eat it together; so not having any of that when he got out of bed, he felt his heart break a little. This year he thought he would get your call first thing in the morning, but when he checked his phone he didn't even find a message announcing that there was a case. He didn't want to go to the office to do paperwork on his birthday, but the thought of at least getting a hug from his coworkers cheered him up slightly.

He put on his favorite shirt, a new pair of pants, and the converse that you had given him and he only wore on special occasions, before leaving the apartment. For some reason Spencer enjoyed taking the subway, perhaps more than anyone he knew, and this time he stopped at a coffee shop that was just before arriving to buy something to drink, since he didn't feel like eating anything.

He undertook the entire trip lost in his thoughts and when he least expected it, he was already at the headquarters. He checked his phone, again, but he still didn't get any notifications or missed calls. Many times you had insisted that he get a more modern model and he had refused, but now he was wondering if the advances in technology would have allowed him to communicate with you through a video call. It would be embarrassing to ask Garcia for a favor, so he concluded that he would just wait, after all if he hadn't communicated it must have been for something important.

Upon entering, he greeted everyone with a huge smile and he felt somewhat disconcerted when the others greeted him normally, without hugs or cake on the table. He sat down at his desk to start going through the documents he already had and the others continued on their own business. It was common for Emily or Morgan to come up to him for a chat, but on this particular day it was as if they were avoiding him. Even Penelope, who he swore would congratulate him, seemed to have completely forgotten when he came to her place with the excuse of needing a piece of information from the previous case. When Hotch called him to his office, the man's eyes lit up, believing that his boss had remembered the celebration of the date.

"Can you do me a favor?" he had asked, without taking his eyes off whatever he was writing "Donovan needs to sort some files and honestly he has no idea how to do it and I'm too busy to explain, could you do it?"

Donovan was in charge of the physical file inside the building and it was not usual for him to request this kind of support, but Reid still said yes, and the rest of the day passed with him locked in a cellar full of filing cabinets. He had made sure to take his phone with him and every time he turned it on to check it and he realized that there was no sign of you his disappointment increased. He came to wonder if his mind hadn't been playing tricks on him and, for some incredible reason, he had gotten the day wrong and it wasn't really October 12; but when he saw the calendar, he verified that this wasn’t possible.

“Are you out of punishment yet?” Emily taunted, when after many hours she saw him again by the bullpen. At another time Spencer would have laughed, but right now his mood wasn't quite right for it and he just looked at her, more hostile than he intended. “Hotch left you some documents on your desk, he asked if you could review them before you go. It's urgent,” she informed him.

It was obvious that this would take time and he felt like crying at the thought of having to stay longer than the regular time. It was almost an hour after everyone else had gone home that he finished, feeling somewhat annoyed to find out that even Aaron had already left.

He doubted whether to go home or go to dinner somewhere, because he knew that if he returned to the apartment he would sink into sadness. His birthdays didn't mean anything special on their own, what he liked was to feel loved, to enjoy the company, but above all to see you.

While he was leaving the building, and as if you were reading his mind, a call vibrated on his cell phone. Seeing that it was you, Spencer didn't take more than two seconds to answer, thinking that maybe after the whole day he could improve.

"You won't believe what happened to me!" you said, without even greeting him. It wasn't the kind of sentence he was expecting, but he still decided to listen.

"What happened?"

“There is a boy, at my work, his name is Brandon. Well, Brandon and I have talked a few times now and he seems like a nice person, plus he's pretty handsome and he finally asked me out on a date with him, can you believe it?" you murmured excitedly, and a lump formed in Spencer's throat "We're going out today, the meeting was canceled and we decided to take advantage of the time, but I can't decide whether to wear the red dress or the black and gold outfit that my mom gave me and I need the help of an expert. You have seen both, which one do you think suits me better?

Spencer was quiet for a moment, processing the situation she was going through, and it wasn't until you said his name that he reacted.

"I like your red dress," he murmured, with a sad smile that you clearly couldn't see. He couldn't believe you were going out with a man you'd never mentioned and it affected him more than he expected you to be asking for advice because a pang of jealousy shot through his chest.

You were telling him that you were going to have a date on his birthday.

“I thought the same! I guess that will be the best option."

"I guess…"

"Where are you now? At home?" you kindly asked. Your tone almost made him angry.

“I just got off work. I'm on my way to take the subway"

"Oh, excellent. Today there were no cases?"

"Not fortunately. I'm glad to know that the criminals at least respected my birthday."

With that said, there was a deathly silence between you, to the point where he wondered if you were still on the other end of the line or if you understood what he was implying.

“Spencer, my God, I…”

"It's okay if you forgot," he said, trying to play the matter down, but the tears that were beginning to accumulate in his eyes indicated otherwise. The guilty tone with which you had spoken was more than enough to know that, probably, if he hadn’t mentioned it, you wouldn’t have done it either "Nobody remembered it"

"I'm so sorry" you practically sobbed "Between all the work and stuff I... I don't even know why I forgot, forgive me”

"It’s okay" he replied. But it wasn't okay. 

“Can I do something to fix it? Whatever, you just… ask me what you want and I'll do it. I swear," you mumbled, sounding desperate.

He tried to convince you that there was no problem with it and you continued to pour out apologies, which Spencer knew were worthless now but he wasn't selfish enough to ignore them. He wanted to scream, cry, or do anything to get that weight off his chest and even though he loved the sound of your voice right now it was the last thing he needed.

“Anyway, I'm about to enter the subway and uh, I have almost no signal there. I'll call you later, okay?" the question didn’t wait for an answer, because he immediately added: "Good luck on your date, bye"

If he had considered going out to celebrate, he knew that now what he urgently needed was to go home or he would break down in tears in the middle of the street. The ride on the subway lasted longer than he would have liked, as he longed to go to sleep and find out if it would allow him to forget a bit about the shitty day he had just had. When he was finally in front of the door with the number 23 in gold letters, he struggled enormously to put the key into the lock, because the tears in his eyes were already clouding his vision, and he believed that the heaviness on his shoulders wouldn’t allow him to advance.

The key turned one turn, then another, and then Spencer was allowed inside the house.

One week before…

The team was meeting in the conference room at the request of Penelope, who had asked everyone to stay after the scheduled time, waiting to receive the news of what they thought would surely be a new case.

"And Reid?" Morgan asked, noticing the empty chair next to him, because they had seen him leave and that was reason enough to have questions about his absence.

"I'm glad you asked because this meeting is related to him," Garcia replied. With the push of a button, a face appeared on the main screen and almost everyone present was surprised to see who it was "She is Y/N Y/L/N, do you remember her?"

"You were at Prentiss's funeral, right?"

"That's right" you replied with a smile, looking directly at the aforementioned "I still have a little trouble understanding, uh... that whole thing, to be honest" you joked.

"Y/N asked us for this space to discuss something related to Spencer's birthday, which will be next Friday" explained Hotch, who was the other member who was already aware of the matter "The microphone is all yours"

"Okay, so where do I start? It's great to see all of you and I hope you're doing well. Every year I visit Spencer on his birthday and we spend the day together, but since this year is his 30th birthday I wanted to do something special and I want to know if you would be willing to help me”

"Tell us your plan, precious"

“I don't intend to take up a lot of your time, it's simple. I will call him today to insinuate that this year I can’t go and all I want you to do is pretend that day that you don’t remember that it’s his birthday”

"Wait, why do you want us to ignore it?" JJ muttered with a frown.

"I want to throw him a surprise party in his apartment" you explained with a smile and then the request you were making to them didn't sound so farfetched "You can tell him you have plans that day and if he mentions something you just say you can't go. I bought my flight for that day and I will be in the city starting in the morning, so I can prepare everything”

"And how will we do if he invites us somewhere?"

Morgan suggested using a decoy for him and pretending they were taking him somewhere else, but you balked at the idea.

“I have all my hopes that he doesn’t mention anything. If so, we'll manage somehow. And I know that asking for that is difficult because we are all his friends, but if necessary, avoid him completely that day. We need him to know under no circumstances that we have a surprise for him."

“He is very smart and he will figure it out. If we make him believe that we forgot he will concentrate on that” you argued. Although the others didn't want to admit it, they knew that you had a point there "I just hope you don't have some unforeseen case or something like that, because I would hate for that lie to be for nothing"

You discussed some more until you concluded that your plan was the most viable. The girls would help you with ideas for decorations and David even offered to buy all the drinks. Although the others weren’t surprised by his generosity, you were slightly upset, but this didn’t prevent you from accepting the offer and thanking him in advance.

“It really means a lot to me that you guys help me, thanks” you murmured happily, once everything was settled, and then your phone started ringing in the background “It's Spencer! I have to answer him. If something happens, you guys will tell me, right?"

"Take it for granted" smiled Garcia, who was the one who had lived with you the most, but everyone supported her from the bottom.

"Fine, thanks everyone, thanks Agent Hotch, I'll see you later!" you said goodbye, hanging up the video call and simultaneously answering the phone.

Everyone got up from the conference room and Rossi was the first to speak, a smile on his face.

"Call me crazy..." he started to say "but something tells me that girl and Spencer are going to end up together"

"The pretty boy loves her, but he still doesn't notice it," Morgan laughed, as they all walked out. "Whenever we go to Vegas, his eyes shine when he sees her."

“And she's setting this up for him! It's so sweet" Penelope sighed, who had already taken Derek's arm "But the part about being mean to Spencer doesn't convince me much… he's going to be so sad"

"Look at it this way, babygirl: if he's sad he'll be happier than usual with the surprise."

"Nobody's going to screw it up," Emily threatened them, pointing her index finger at them, and the rest of the team promised they wouldn't.

Meanwhile, your first part of the plan was in the works, with the late-night call he had made to you. You had to admit that lying to your best friend was something you hated, but with any luck it would all be worth it when you could hug him and give him that gift that you had carefully kept on one of the shelves, that you hoped could be enough for such an important event like the first thirty years of life.

What happened during the week is history, which was consolidated at the moment he turned the handle without even imagining what awaited him.

When Spencer walked through the door the first thing he did was turn on the light and he felt like he was going to have a heart attack when he heard the screams coming from inside. There were purple balloons scattered all over the floor, a congratulations banner, a table full of presents, and everyone was there.

The shock was such that he couldn't even manage to say a word and some of the tears that he had been holding back were finally able to come out, but this time for different reasons.

They hadn’t forgotten.

"How…? What are you doing here?"

“We came to celebrate your birthday, genius,” Morgan laughed, as he reached over to hug his friend and ruffled his hair brotherly.

A wave of hugs preceded that and even he received a couple of kisses on each cheek from Rossi, which finally made him laugh. He seemed like a child, completely fascinated with everything around him and still processing the situation.

In the midst of it all, he couldn't help wondering how his friends had been able to enter the apartment, since none of them had a copy of the key and the landlady was too suspicious to have let them in just like that, but he felt happy for the direction the day had taken.

“First of all, we have another surprise for you,” said JJ, obviously excited. The rest shared complicit glances and García began to record with his cell phone, which made him a little nervous "But you have to close your eyes."

Spencer looked at everyone else as if waiting for a confirmation of that, and seeing a couple of nods he did what his friend was asking. Just to make sure Jennifer covered his eyelids with her hands and in this way she turned him around, while he wondered what this surprise could be about.

"Are you ready?" she asked and the man answered yes with a hum. There was silence for a second, as if they were checking something, and then she withdrew her hand. "Open them."

Many possibilities went through the man's mind for whatever he would see at that moment, but when he did, he felt his heart stop for a moment. There you were, looking at him with a sweet smile and wearing that red dress. 

The rest of those present were waiting for who would make the first move, because the two of you had froze looking at each other, and García was only pointing the camera carefully as you had requested.

"Surprise?" you said shyly, noticing that Spencer hadn't said anything.

You were afraid that after the call you had he was upset with you in some way, but a second after he recovered from the shock he was already on top of you, holding you by the waist to spin you through the air while you laughed heartily.

"You came," he said, his voice cracking, but completely brimming with happiness.

"Of course I would, Spencer, do you think I'd miss your birthday?"

"But you... your work"

"All a vile lie"

"And that boy?"

“There was never such a thing,” you laughed, freeing yourself from the weight of guilt “You're my only boy,” you added affectionately, palms planted squarely on your friend's cheeks. He still had you in his arms and was grinning from ear to ear at your answers "I'm so sorry I told you all that, I just didn't want you to suspect anything, can you forgive me?"

"No!" he practically squealed and you widened your eyes in amazement “Today was the most terrible day because I thought you didn't care about me anymore, you made me suffer! All of you!" your friend complained, looking away from you briefly to look at those present.

"In our defense, she asked us to," Emily laughed, holding up both hands in surrender.

"You're so mean," he murmured, turning his attention back to you. "But I love you so much.”

A group sigh filled the room as he engulfed you in a hug and from your position you could see the teasing or tender smiles they all had. It wasn't very common to see the youngest of the team in that position, much less saying those things, plus we had to add the collective opinion that you were madly in love.

"Seriously, forgive me"

"It’s okay…" he whispered close to your ear "You're here, that's what matters"

His body felt so soft and safe that you didn't want to stop hugging him, but you knew that if you took too long it would create an uncomfortable environment for the rest, so you had no choice but to gently pull him away from you. The woman asked your friend, just to annoy him, if he liked his surprise and although he didn't say anything, the giant smile and flushed cheeks were enough of an answer.

"Come, you won't escape my melodious voice" you murmured after a few seconds, when the commotion calmed down a bit.

Taking him by the hand, you led him to the table where you had the chocolate cake with a couple of candles that formed the number 30. Everyone sang the song while the wick burned down and the boy looked anywhere, with that certain shyness characteristic of him. When he blew out the candle to make his wish, you all applauded and that started the celebration.

There were some appetizers on the table and Rossi had stocked all the drinks quite well, as he had promised. As the minutes passed you hovered here and there to check that things were in order, arranging everything as if it were your own apartment, and Spencer could only smile at how well you seemed to get along with everyone. The last time you'd seen the team was, sure enough, during Emily's funeral, but that didn't mean there wasn't some history between you.

He still remembered the feeling of shame when in the early years he had asked Gideon for permission to summon someone to the hotel during a case in Las Vegas. It wasn't that he was ashamed of you, but that he was ashamed of having to reveal something so important in his life to his FBI colleagues. The agent didn't object at all, but that didn't spare the man from being grilled by Derek and Elle about which mysterious lady their younger coworker was talking to. Over the years, people left the unit, and others joined, but the constant was always you. Even now, if a replacement happened, Spencer knew that the rest of the team would take it upon themselves to introduce you to said person. 

At some point he felt a tremendous nostalgia for that time and in a chain of thoughts he came to ask himself if working where he did was the right thing to do. Turning thirty was cause for celebration, but for him it was also tantamount to thinking how well he had lived up to the expectations of what he expected to have achieved at this age: How much progress should he have made in the world by now? Was it any use having that brilliant mind that everyone raved about if he was working in a government office? And what about his personal life? He wanted to get married at some point and wondered if he should be looking for love instead of criminals. Even while he was through all this, he wished he could focus on how happy his friends had made him instead of worrying about other things. 

"Up to here I can see the gears of your brain" laughed someone next to him. It was Emily "What's wrong?"

"Nothing" he murmured, shaking his head softly "I was thinking about some things, it's just that"

"You should drink some more, that wine that Dave brought tastes delicious" she smiled, inviting him to come closer to the others to chat.

It was a bit ironic, but completely understandable, that even at his own birthday party he would remain a bit oblivious to the situation. Following Emily's advice, he poured himself another drink and joined the other attendees to enjoy the moment. For hours you laughed and chatted, until the drinks were running out and your drunkenness rising.

The parents of the group were the first to leave and the last was a drunk Penelope who threatened to stay there to sleep, but Derek took it upon himself to guide her to his car to take her home. It was late at night when only you and Spencer were left, amidst all the decorations in the room.

"Peace and tranquility"

"It was too much?" you laughed, knowing that your friend could become overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle.

"No, no. Just kidding"

“And was it okay for you? You had fun?" you asked, referring to the party, as the two of you sat down on the leather couch. The dress you were wearing rose to the top of your thighs and his attention strayed there for a second, so he looked up guiltily; He didn't help the blush on his cheeks that there was your cleavage. 

"Everything was wonderful"

"Are you seriously not mad at me?" you insisted

"No, honey, I'm not," he laughed. You tried to ignore the fact that he had said that to you, since it wasn't something he was used to, and just smiled sheepishly, "I mean, at first I was a little, but now that I understand why you did it, I'm not anymore."

“You are already thirty… you are so old!”

"You are older than me!" he squealed, completely offended, and you responded with a laugh. Although that was true, you looked more jovial than the man, something that a variety of people had taken it upon themselves to verify.

"Now that I remember, do you want to see your gift?"

"Isn't this supposed to be my gift?" The confusion was evident in his voice and you refrained from answering, as you bolted into the room. You came back from there with a box in your hands, which you later placed on your lap with evident emotion.

“I wrapped it myself” you confessed, rather proud of yourself. You had found a piece of paper to cover with drawings of equations and small microscopes that you thought captured the essence of your friend and, of course, now that he had seen it, he had liked it a lot.

The man's fingers drummed the surface under your expectant gaze, and then he winced slightly.

"What's up?"

"I don't know, I think maybe I should open it later…"

"Spencer Reid!" you yelled. It was obvious that he was only joking with you and you knew that by the laugh that escaped his lips. 

Your friend opened the box almost ceremonially and then removed the tissue paper that covered the contents: above all there were two hardcover books, one about the world of fungi and the other about poetry, next to it an hourglass, then three boxes with jigsaw puzzles, a pocket chess game, packets of Reid's favorite sweets, and last but not least, a picture of the two of you in a pretty chocolate-colored frame and a little paper envelope to go with it. One by one he was taking out the gifts and his smile only grew with each object, while he felt his heart grow with love.

"I remember this day" he murmured, referring to the photograph you had chosen. The sky was blue behind you and you were kissing Spencer's cheek, who was smiling at how spontaneous it had been “We were in a park after going to an art exhibition."

“And we bought the most delicious ice cream in the world”

"I differ, I've had better," he murmured, shrugging. The truth is that you thought that the ice cream had been delicious because of the whole panorama of that day, not so much because of the taste itself.

Spencer knew that photo would have to go on his desk in the bullpen, although the taunts he was sure the others would throw at him. Perhaps having you there would serve as a reminder that there was good in the world, despite everything he could see on the job every day. 

“Oh, and I read somewhere that hourglasses help people with anxiety because it's relaxing to watch the sand fall so they can focus on it. I thought you might like it, I bought it at an antique store."

"It's very nice" he agreed, turning the object over and checking that it actually worked "I'll open the note, okay?"

Spencer always preferred that you read his letters in private because if he saw your face and knew you were reading those words he would just cringe, but you didn't seem to share that trait so you agreed to his request. As with the box, he carefully opened the envelope and then pulled out a handwritten note.

I hope you like these little gifts that try to express a huge love.

Never doubt that you are making a change in the world and that you are surrounded by people who love you, including your old neighbor who now ironically lives too far from you. 

Happy 30th birthday to my favorite person in the entire world. I am confident that many more years will come for both of us.

Always yours, Y/N.

"Don't cry, Reid" you asked gently, feeling your own tears at the edge of your eyes. Spencer smiled and leaned in your direction to wrap you in a hug so hopefully you wouldn't notice if he got emotional.

"Thank you" was the only thing he managed to say. 

He wanted to thank you not only for that day but for years of friendship, years of feeling like he wasn't so alone in the world if he had you by his side and even thank you for treating him like a normal kid when no one else did. And as always, you perfectly understood what he was referring to.

You stayed like that for a few minutes; Spencer tucked into the crook of your neck and cooing at the throbbing on your pulse line, and you basking in the warmth of the contact.

“Did you like the puzzles?” 

"Yeah! They are great” he replied, as he moved away from you so that he could observe you “Do you want us to put one together?”

“Sure” you smiled “Just let me put on my pajamas and I'll be right back, okay?”

"Good. You look very beautiful in that dress, by the way. I don't know if I forgot to tell you” he flattered you, making you smile sincerely. 

"You chose it, remember?"

Before getting up you kindly squeezed his cheek and after changing your clothes you returned to where you were. He had chosen the puzzle with the design of a Monet painting and spread it out on the floor, where the two of you settled comfortably.

Your friend took a bunch of pieces and you took another and you guys worked in silence until little by little things started to come together. He was very good at the task and very soon he already had a considerable part assembled; although you were going a little slower you followed a constant rhythm. 

"Hey, Spencer"

"Yeah?" he asked, too intent on finding a place for the piece in his fingers to watch you.

“What was your birthday wish? When blowing out the candles”

"Oh, I didn't wish for anything"

"Why?" you asked confused.

Spencer looked up from the puzzle and smiled at you.

"Because my birthday wish was already right here"

It seemed obvious to him, but it took you a second to understand exactly what he meant and when you finally did, your eyes gave him the sweetest look of all.

You and your friend stayed up all night until the play was over and after that you both stumbled to bed, where you fell fast asleep in each other's arms.

At some point Spencer half-opened his eyes, prisoner of a bad dream, and when he was aware of the situation he felt the peace he needed. After that it didn't take him long to get back to sleep, with a smile on his face and his whole world held in his arms.

taglist: @navs-bhat @reidwritings @tricia-shifting14 @spencerslove

[theotherbuckley]

Do u have any HCs about BuckTommy formally meeting each other’s bio parents? Or how the coming out journey went for them both when their bio parents found out?

- They don’t meet each others parents until it just happens. The Buckley parents have known about Tommy since the madney wedding but they never really commented on it. Buck didn’t ask them about it. They’d just started getting along he didn’t want to risk it.

- Tommy meets Buck’s parents more officially when Jee celebrates her 5th birthday. The Buckleys insist on doing something bigger because their granddaughter only turns 5 once. At this point Buck and Tommy have been together for over a year. When Buck introduces Tommy to his parents they say “oh so you’re still seeing him then?” but they don’t say anything worse they’re polite and that’s about as much as Buck could hope for. Later that night Tommy says he’s sorry the meeting didn’t go better. Buck shakes his head and says that his real family is happy for them and that’s all that matters. He tells Tommy later that he doesn’t understand why he never got the birthday party Jee got. That he’s happy she has her grandparents love but he just wishes he’d have had the same growing up. He tells him sometimes it’s hard not to think he’s the problem. Tommy holds him tight and tells him he matters and that he’s loved. Tommy throws him a massive party with the help of the 118 for his next birthday.

- Buck meets Tommy’s parents at Tommy’s dad’s third wedding. His mum gets drunk out of her mind and Tommy doesn’t even know why she showed up. Tommy’s dad asks him if he’s still gay then. Tommy nods. Tommy’s dad shakes his head and says what can you do. Tommy’s mum says hi, she’s polite and tells him she’s pleased to meet him. But then she gets drunk and spits out hateful words to Tommy’s dad. Tommy feels like he’s 5 again, listening to his parents argue from his bedroom. Tommy tells Buck he’s sorry he had to see that. Buck takes him home and tells him that they can’t choose where they come from. That the family they have is what’s important.

- In the end Buck and Tommy get married in Bobby and Athena’s backyard. The Buckley parents show up which Buck thinks must count for something. Maddie walks him down the aisle. Tommy’s mother comes but his dad doesn’t. He says he doesn’t want to be anywhere near “that woman” Tommy shrugs and says it doesn’t matter, he’s getting married to the man of his dreams and that’s all he cares about. He’d rather they didn’t make a scene anyway. Bobby marries them. Talks about how they were both punk kids when he first met them but how they’ve grown into great men. He calls them his family. He says how far they’ve come from Buck calling Bobby Pops to how Bobby loves him like his son. He tells Tommy he couldn’t have asked for a better son-in-law. Buck and Tommy kiss as husbands for the first time with tears dripping down their cheeks.

[florenceafternoon]

━。゜✿ jily fic recommendations ✿ ゜。━

Featuring coffee shop, neighbours and historical AUs because everyone deserves to find their next comfort read.

For reference, anything in italics is taken from the summaries.

Provisionally Yours by snapslikethis

Lily Evans discovers she’s been married off to James Potter without her knowledge. She and the spoiled count (in whom she appears to have finally met her match) have three days, for better or worse, to decide whether to accept the contract. With her sister adamant to make her life miserable, and a husband who seems equally determined to repel her, what else can possibly go wrong?

I think this fic captures their inquisitive nature perfectly. Through their banter, you can see just how compassionate and selfless James is and how he can be very sincere despite his antics. Lily is described in canon as vivacious and this fic illustrates how her reserved nature dissolves when in good company.

Till Death Do Us Part (Let It Be Quick) by @wearingaberetinparis

“Till death do us part,” she concluded, all air sucked from her lungs. Her fate signed, sealed and delivered. As the priest spoke his final words, she found herself ensnared in her adversary's gaze, trapped by the weight of it, her mouth opening as she spoke under her breath - almost subconsciously: “Let it be quick.”

A Jily Arranged Marriage AU in which Lady Lily never imagined she would fall for the husband she was forced to wed. Inspired by My Lady Jane.

I'm so excited about this, you guys don't understand!! Mary's writing is always phenomenal but her historical AUs have a very special place in my heart

all the king's horses, all the king's men by @jilyss

As queen, Lily Evans faces the suffocating weight of isolation and loneliness that comes with the crown. The only constant in her life is James Potter, her loyal and ever-watchful royal guard.

Wizarding Betrothal by pasmosa

Lily’s parents arranged her marriage to a wizard when she was born, and sealed the deal with a binding magical contract! Nobody counted on Lily choosing not to cooperate! Someone’s heart will get broken. Will it be her own?

oops I did it again by Anonymous

Annoyance, a deep, visceral annoyance that only Potter seems capable of generating, stirs up within her. Part of her still wants to storm out and away from him, another part wants to smack that smirk off his face, and a third very secret part that should never have existed in the first place can’t stop thinking about that photo, about her mouth on his, about his long fingers rucking up the hem of her shirt.

If she leaves now, she reasons, he’ll have gotten the last say, and that’d be absolutely no fair.

So she stalks over, plants her hands on her hips, and looks up at him. “Alright, new deal,” she says. “One kiss — one real kiss — and then you get it out of your system.”

(Spoiler alert: Neither of them gets anything out of their system.)

It's got everything you'd want from a uni AU

Literary Sophistication by @andromedabooks

Bookstore AU where an English girl enjoys Great American novels and her date has correct opinions regarding film adaptations

Customer In Law by @annabtg

James Potter is young, handsome, the proud owner of a coffee shop, and tragically - according to his mother - single. In an attempt to stop her from trying to set him up with her friends' daughters, he decides to go along with his best friend's plan and recruit his regular customer Lily Evans to play the part of his girlfriend during his mother's birthday party. Of course, the fact that he’s got a huge crush on her is entirely irrelevant…

The amount of pinning in this...

Golden Lights by PotterandEvans (on ao3)

James Potter, competition-winning figure skater has a crush, a crush on the redhead that works at his favourite coffee shop. When he finds out that she also teaches children how to skate on the weekends, he finds himself on the rink to join her.

throwing chances (requires an ao3 account) by @theroomofreq

prompt: “I’ve spent the summer climbing through your bedroom window so no one sees, please won’t you give me a chance?”

Or the one where both of them are early birds but Lily needs coffee

A Cashmere Christmas Miracle by @oyprongs

"Lily doesn’t really have an excuse for why she does it. It’s completely unprofessional - not that that matters much at her workplace - and probably constitutes some form of light stalking. But the jumper’s been in the bin at work for weeks, and she’s tired of tossing it aside whenever she clears out the other clothes, and Mary’s on holiday so she doesn’t have anyone dropping in to say hi, and she has to stress this: Lily’s job is very, very boring."

or Lily finds a jumper at her work's lost and found and decides to text the number stitched to the label.

This fic read like a recount a friend would text me and I mean this in the best way

Can't you see (you belong with me) by Boggarts_butterbeer (on ao3)

"I love your eyes" she says it so softly, so earnestly and his heart absolutely melts. "It was you" she carries on, resting her forehead on his, "it was going to be you all along"

he's about to say something (and it isn't going to be complete mush) when the door bangs open and they turn to Effie holding a tray of biscuits, absolutely grinning from ear to ear shouting "Fleamont, Oi Fleamont get your arse up here it's happened! it's finally happened, Oh and bring the camera!" and behind him is Sirius, recording the whole thing doubled over in laughter, and lily flushed red, hiding her face in his chest as he groans

Or Jily muggle au inspired by the You Belong with Me music video because it is the best video of all time- Lily pines secretly whilst James pines not so secretly

Because at my core I'm a friends to lovers girl

Covet Thy Neighbour by @beedaily

There are lots of ways to introduce oneself to a new neighbour, but breaking into their flat, perhaps, is a road less travelled.

Reunion also by @ /beedaily

The last person Lily expects to see at her law conference is the first boy she'd ever kissed.

Shout Out To My Ex series also by @ /wearingaberetinparis

James and Lily work for Phoenix Radio, a radio station that finds its existence threatened by the successful Riddle Radio. When asked to brainstorm an idea for a new show, Lily comes up with a show in which two exes discuss the aftermath of their break-up. Obviously, so Albus Dumbledore and Minerva McGonagall decide, she and James are perfect to play the part. The only problem? They never actually dated. A fake exes AU that leads to so much more drama than you might expect.

A Jily Modern AU inspired by Rachel Lynn Solomon’s "The Ex Talk".

The ending was just perfect

I Spy, I Spy With My Little Eye also by @ /wearingaberetinparis

Potter. James Potter. It sounds like a joke. It most certainly isn’t.

A Jily MI6 Spies AU in which James Potter and Lily Evans attempt to take down Tom Riddle.

Too Young to Have This Kind of Epiphany by @tinyluminaryzombie

Lily's a badass legislative director at a climate non-profit. James is a sweet, funny, and gorgeous co-owner of Three Broomsticks, the cafe Lily's started visiting. They're kind of obsessed with each other (but also refuse to make a move).

her favourite regular by @arianatwycross

A little doe-mestic moment for our two love birds with a sprinkle of my favourite: coffee

The Phoenix: A Coffee Shop Story by hp_poppet_writer (on ao3)

Lily gets more than she bargained for at the new coffee place her roommate recommends.

Lily feels her mouth go dry. If this is the view, this tall, chiseled specimen with the perfect amount of scruff on his face, she would gladly drink a cup of the worst coffee in the world every day. Her caffeine-deprived, still-asleep, drooling brain manages to squeak out “coffee” as she continues to openly stare at him.

His smile turns into a smirk, hazel eyes lighting with a mischievous glint. He pushes his glasses up before responding.

my mind turns your life into folklore (i can’t dare to dream about you anymore) by petitecanard (on ao3)

Lily had not been the reigning belle for twenty miles around Cokeworth without learning to distinguish between a flirt and a man who was in earnest. She replied instantly: “I know very well that Lord Potter means nothing by his compliments! Indeed, I am in no danger of being taken-in like a goose. And I still think he is odious, and a toerag, and a bully, and – and everything of that sort!”

Or, when the impoverished Miss Lily Evans embarks to London to find a husband, she impetuously engages in a battle of wits with the eligible Lord James Potter.

Quintessential jily

moppet (requires an ao3 account) by @gryffindormischief

Sometimes it's the unexpected things you love the most (feat. singel dad James).

heuristic also by @ /gryffindormischief

Bad restaurants, texting, DDR, pet apartments, more texting, nachos, and bookstore dates, all normal in the early days of a relationship, right?

may i borrow some sugar by oneofthesirens

Lily sits up so fast she’s surprised she doesn’t get whiplash. She recognises him, vaguely, in that way that sometimes they pass in the street and awkwardly nod. He’s tall – really tall, and she definitely has not developed an obsession with that – and wears glasses that are either dorky in a cool way, or hipster in an uncool way. He’s kind of exactly her type which was the first thing Marlene had pointed out when she’d seen him in passing.

Her naked and, more importantly, oblivious neighbour spins around to grab something from behind him and Lily sees… well, everything. More than she wanted to and, at the same time, not enough at all.

So, she does what any reasonable, twenty-five-year-old girl would do; snatches her phone from the bedside table, pulls the duvet up above her head so her naked neighbour can’t see her looking, and texts her friends.

Or: Lily and James are semi-neighbours, somewhat acquaintances, and she might have hosted a pretend-party just to talk to him

The Return (requires an ao3 account) by cwannabe5 (on ao3)

When Lily returns to her old university town for a weekend reunion with her university friend group, she naively expects old feelings and relationship dynamics to stay where they belong: in the past. However, it becomes immediately clear to her that being drawn towards James isn't something she can run from forever, and in fact, if she can manage to admit it to herself, sometimes addressing the elephant in the room leads to a happy ending.

Also, (not so) reluctant bed-sharing.

Life and Lemons by @lovesickjily

Harry loves his parents dearly, but he would love it even more if they were together. He decides to play cupid in an effort to have a happy family.

[whereianonymouslypostfics]

Security Detail 

Pairing: Wanda Maximoff x reader

Word count: ~5.1k

Summary: Little Nat goes to a birthday party

A/N: More inspired by ideas from @rianncreates

Warnings: fluff, slight angst, creeps, and cuteness

This was your nightmare. Honestly the idea of having near 2 dozen kids running around makes you more anxious than you ever would have imagined. Between keeping them from leaving your sight, and making sure no one fell off the jungle gym you didn’t get a moment to relax as you supervised your daughter’s friend’s birthday party.

This is one of the first events you’ve gone to like this and you are realizing quickly that you definitely don't give Wanda enough credit. She loved these types of things, and watching her now was truly an experience. She was somehow the social butterfly between the two of you. She wandered from table to table and talked to parents, kids, and their friends with a smile on her face and an energy that you couldn’t even attempt to muster at this point.

You’re out of your element and it feels painfully obvious as you sit off by yourself. Well, you have your dogs with you. You’d brought them because you had no idea how long this would last, and you hadn’t wanted to worry about them. They loved to get out anyway and after exploring the playground and getting their fill of scratches from the kids, they’d come to sit beside you. You’re considering getting up and making the rounds with Wanda when someone sits beside you with a loud sigh.

“Hanging in there?”

You turn to see Pietro shooting you a knowing look that you just laugh at. He doesn't like these things either, but he can wander off without getting judged. If you did that you'd be a neglectful mother, so you're sitting nearby-ish as you take a breather.

“This is exhausting. I don't know how Wanda does it.”

Pietro glances toward his sister who's smiling as she talks to one of the dads that has at least three kids of his own here. He’s not sure how his sister went from mobster to stay at home mom so seamlessly but it was never something he imagined for her. He was glad that she seemed happy, and he honestly could use some of her energy. He reaches down to scratch Boone’s head with a smile. The dogs have been very good during this whole thing. He’d been afraid that they’d be overwhelmed by the near thirty children here, but they were actually pretty chill. They mostly looked around and kept an eye on Natalya, but she was having fun with her friends and was being watched by more than enough people.

“She’s an impressive one, my sister.”

You smile at the thought and you hum in agreement as your gaze falls to your wife again. She really is spectacular and as you watch her laugh at something the birthday kid’s dad says you feel yourself sigh wistfully.

“She’s amazing, for sure.”

Pietro turns to you with a pinched expression when he realizes you’re practically drooling over his sister. He rolls his eyes before slapping you on the back to startle you out of your daydreaming. You flinch and turn to glare at him as he pretends to be annoyed.

“Hey, that’s my sister you’re drooling over.”

You roll your eyes before slapping your brother-in-law’s hand away. You shake your head before meeting your wife’s gaze briefly before she returns her attention to the host. You briefly wonder how much they spent on this party for their son who’s 4 and won’t remember it. They even hired caterers that are still milling about to make sure that there’s enough food to go around. At this point it’s mostly the parents eating as the kids run around and play on the playground or in the large field that hosts various games.

You hope that Natalya won’t want a party like this. Despite having the money to throw one, logistically it sounds like a nightmare, and you aren’t sure how many more of these you can sit through.

“I’m not drooling. She does look beautiful in that dress though; don’t you think Piet?”

You’re teasing him now because despite agreeing that his sister is pretty, he finds it a little awkward to talk with you about her looks. You know this and you’re just giving him a hard time because it’s what you two do. You take his lack of response as answer enough and you sigh before checking on your daughter again. She’s strayed away from her friend group to play with one of the other dogs roaming around here. You turn back to Pietro to see that he’s spaced out, and you sigh before getting to your feet.

“I’m going to make the rounds. Want to come?”

Pietro unsurprisingly shakes his head and you just leave him to sit and mull as you wave your dogs along. You’re not going to walk around alone, and you’re grateful that they both stand and follow after you obediently.

“Good boys.”

“Thank you.”

You roll your eyes and don’t even bother to respond to Pietro as you decide to get your wife something to eat. She’s been milling around for so long, and you’re not sure if she even ate, so you take a detour to the ridiculously large buffet with a smile. You make her a plate and grab her something to drink before you glance around for your daughter again. She’s wandering farther away and you frown and decide you don’t like this. You turn to Boone before pointing toward Natalya and waving your dog off.

“Go get her, Boone.”

You should do it yourself, but you’re lazy and you’ll check on her as soon as you stop by Wanda to make sure she’s not going to pass out. It’s way too hot for an outdoor party, in your opinion at least, but you’ll worry about that later. You walk up behind your wife and smile as you hear her laughing as she continues to chat. You check behind you and frown when you realize your other dog abandoned you, but since he’s going after his brother, you’re going to let it go.

“Hey there, Wands.”

Wanda’s exhausted. She underestimated how tiring such a large birthday party would be. She’s playing the part of a host despite not being one, but she’d wanted to get to know the parents of her daughter’s classmates in a setting that wasn’t run by the school. She’d learned a lot, but mostly she’s exhausted herself after nearly an hour of chitchatting. She’s beyond grateful to hear your voice behind her, and as soon as she realizes you’ve brought her food, she could just kiss you.

“Hi detka. Come sit.”

You set the plate and cup in front of your wife, and you’re about to sit down but you remember that you were going to check on Natalya. She would do anything to pet a dog and you have to make sure she doesn’t go too far. She was still in sight when you sent Boone after her, but you had to go make sure she didn’t stray any further. You kiss your wife’s cheek before you point over your shoulder and explain why you’re not taking her up on her very appealing offer.

“I will in a minute, I have to go wrangle Little Nat first. She’s over there.”

Wanda turns to where you’re pointing, but she doesn’t see her daughter anywhere. She’s frowning by the time she looks back to you and your smile turns down too when Wanda shakes her head.

“Where is she? I don’t see her.”

Natalya was getting tired of playing and she could use a second serving of cake. She had planned on doing this immediately after leaving her friends, but she spotted a new dog that she hadn’t pet yet and she couldn’t resist the urge to follow it. It was a small scruffy dog with a purple collar, and she followed him closely as he headed away from the party and toward the parking lot.

“Come here, doggy.”

Natalya reaches out and is just short of the dog so she starts to walk faster. She doesn’t even realize she’s getting too far away from everyone else until she follows the dog behind some trees. She stops short and turns around only to realize she can’t see her parents or uncle anymore. Her moms had told her before coming here that she needed to stay in sight at all times. She could only talk to the other kids at the party and their parents, but no one else at the park. She’s reminded of this last rule as she sees a man dressed in black and white waiting for his dog with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth. He holds out his arms and Natalya just stands where she is as she debates heading back.

“Hello there. Do you want to say hi?”

Natalya is conflicted. She’s not supposed to talk to strangers, but her moms never said anything about petting their dogs. She nods meekly before she steps forward so she’s in the shade and closer to the cute dog who’s panting from his run over here.

“Yes please.”

The man smiles before he drops the still smoking cigarette and stomps it out before pointing at his dog. He watches the brunette take a couple of tentative steps forward.

“Go ahead, he’s very sweet.”

Natalya reaches out a hand to pet the dog’s head, and she smiles as he licks her in return. She’s about to ask what his name is, but his owner catches her off guard as he grabs her around her waist and picks her up. She doesn’t get a chance to protest before he’s covering her mouth and hurrying off toward the parking lot.

You’re speed walking toward where you’d last seen your daughter with Wanda and Pietro on your heels. You are only a little worried when you walk past the field and toward the parking lot without seeing her. You don’t even see your dogs as you mutter under your breath anxiously.

“She was just here, I swear.”

Wanda’s response is cut off as she hears shouting nearby from beyond the trees near the path that leads back to their car. She frowns when she realizes that they’re screaming in pain and only a second later she notices that it’s nearly drowning out the sound of growling. You and Pietro run toward the sounds and as you get closer you recognize your dogs and run faster.

“Hey!”

The sight that greets you is a lot to process, but you don’t hesitate to run forward to stop Pietro from committing murder. Your two dogs have latched onto the legs of a man in a caterer’s uniform who’s holding something under his arm. It takes a second for you to realize it’s a person, and then only a millisecond longer to realize it’s your daughter. You ignore the small barking terrier as you call off your dogs as the man finally drops Natalya. She falls hard on the ground and you rush to grab her just as Pietro tackles her attempted kidnapper.

“You fucker!”

“Pietro!”

Wanda’s shocked to see someone with her daughter in their arms, and it takes her a second to realize that they’d been trying to run off with her. She had feared something like this would happen for only the first few years of Natalya’s life. However, every scenario that she’d imagined hadn’t included a birthday party. She supposes that was shortsighted on her part. She watches for only a second before she’s running forward to check on her daughter that you’re helping off the ground. She’s got dirt on her face, but otherwise she looks unharmed.

“Natalya!”

“Little Nat, are you alright? Did he hurt you?”

You’re frantic as you check over your daughter to make sure she’s not injured. Luckily you only notice a small scrape on her knee from the fall, but otherwise she appears unharmed. You ignore your brother-in-law as he beats up the man who had snuck into the party and lured your daughter away. Your anger makes you want to kick the man while he’s down and already bloodied by the older Maximoff, but you decide to focus on your daughter.

“Pietro, stop!”

Wanda gathers Natalya in her arms while you try to calm down your dogs. They’re still barking and snarling at the brunette that they’d intercepted, and they’re too on edge to listen to you. You see that Wanda has her phone out and she’s hopefully calling the police so you focus on Pietro. He’s understandably pissed, but you can’t let him kill the guy before you find out what he was doing. Rather if he was doing it of his own volition. You hadn’t heard anything about your wife’s work for years. Since she’s been retired, you’d never had problems, and you hope as horrible as it sounds, that this is just a run of the mill creep instead of a mobster creep.

“Who the hell are you?! What did you want with my niece?”

Pietro’s breathing heavily as he stares down at brunette who’s barely fighting back. He realizes quickly that this person probably isn’t anyone’s hired help. He’s too soft and the thought that he’s working alone is as comforting as it is disgusting. Pietro grabs the collar of his bloodied shirt, and he’s about to slam him on the ground again when he hears new voices.

Apparently, the dogs had attracted the attention of some of the other parents and they’d wanted to make sure that no one was hurt. Wanda noticed them first, but you’re the one who talked to them about the confusing, disturbing scene in front of them. Pietro reluctantly let the brunette up and he just held him tightly as he waited for the sirens to get closer.

Once he was in custody and everyone involved had been questioned, you decided it was time to leave. You look to your daughter who’s sleeping in her uncle’s arms, before turning toward your dogs. They were still a little wired, but they’d calmed down as soon as the cops showed up. You were grateful that you’d sent Boone after Nat and that they’d both protected their sister, but you’re feeling guilty about not going to get your daughter yourself. She would never have gotten that far if you had just gone after her, and you’re kicking yourself for what almost happened.

“Stop it.”

You turn in confusion at the sound of your wife’s voice, but when you see her knowing look you just turn away with a scowl. She’s not mad at you because there’s no way you could have known what was going to happen. Nat was still in sight when you saw her, and you sent Boone after her with the intention of finding her right after. She’s sure she would have done the same thing. She’s just lucky that the dogs had saved Natalya, and that her brother had beaten him up for all of them. She reaches out for your arm as you shake your head.

“I shouldn’t have left her alone. I’m so stupid.”

Wanda grabs your chin to turn you towards her, and you’re met with a stern look that you know isn’t something you should argue with.

“Stop it, Y/n. This isn’t your fault. You were going to check on her, and in the meantime, you made sure she was taken care of.”

Wanda takes a moment to look at the two dogs that might still have blood on their faces. She didn’t worry about that now as she knelt down to pet the duo with a wide smile. They had been loyal companions for years, and Wanda had always hoped that if a day like this came around, they would step up and protect their own. She couldn’t be prouder of them and she kisses both of their furry heads in thanks.

“Such good boys. You’re getting steak tonight.”

You guess that Wanda’s right. You hadn’t predicted that you’d face this threat today, but you’re glad that you were more prepared than you thought. Well, it was less you and more your dogs and your brother-in-law being able to thwart the low life who tried to steal your daughter. With any luck, something like this won’t happen ever again, but you can at least take comfort in the fact that your daughter has her own guard dogs.

“They definitely are.”

When the trio got home after the party everything seemed normal. They had dinner after spending some time on the couch watching one of Natalya’s favorite shows. Nat nearly fell asleep at the table after the tiring and stressful time at the party, so you picked her up to take her upstairs to bed. You’re distracted by tiny hands pulling on your hair as you walk through your daughter’s bedroom door. You frown when she whines quietly before speaking barely loudly enough for you to hear.

“I want to sleep with you and Mama.”

You aren’t really surprised to hear this, but you and Wanda still need to talk and figure out what you’re going to do about what happened this afternoon. The police had their own investigation going of course, but you knew your wife well, and you would be foolish to think that she wasn’t going to look into it herself. You decide to try and compromise and you figure you can stay here with Nat until she falls asleep and then go catch up with your wife.

“How about I stay with you instead?”

Natalya frowns but she nods and lets you get her ready for bed. After she brushes her teeth and changes clothes, you tuck her in and grab a book from her shelf beside the bed. You smile as you ask your daughter if she wants you to read this tonight, and after grabbing Winston and holding him tight, she nods wordlessly.

Wanda’s still downstairs trying to talk her brother down when you finish reading to Natalya. You leave her once you realize she’s fast asleep, and you head back downstairs to find your wife growing frustrated as she finishes her drink. She’d had a glass of wine at dinner, so this must be her second but you don’t pay much attention to that right now.

“I know Pietro, and I appreciate it, but we’ll figure something else out. I’m not going to blow our cover on this. He was probably just a lone creep.”

You had come to the same conclusion, but you just sigh in defeat as you go straight for the fridge for another drink too. You choose to grab a beer and are almost half done with it by the time Wanda hangs up with her brother. She takes a deep breath before turning toward you with a small smile. She’s tired and stressed, but she’s sure you are too so she takes a minute to check in with you.

“Natalya’s asleep?”

You nod in confirmation before setting down your beer as Wanda reaches out for you with a tired look. You hold her close before glancing over her shoulder at your two dogs that are resting in their giant dog bed in the corner. All of the kids seem to be down for the night, so you decide that you’ll go to sleep soon too. This had been a stressful experience and you could feel yourself crashing at the very thought of your pillow.

“She is. How’s Pietro?”

Wanda shrugs before muttering something into your hair about how he’s being an overprotective uncle, but he should calm down soon. You listen to Wanda’s plan before you lead her toward the stairs once you both finish your drinks and set them in the sink. Wanda squeezes your hand as she shuts the door behind her and keeps you from collapsing immediately.

“How are you feeling, detka?”

You sigh before you shake your head and admit that you’re still a little upset. This is understandable and Wanda’s certainly not happy either. She’s terrified and still shocked that you both could have lost your daughter today. If you’d been even 30 seconds later, or you hadn’t sent Boone after Natalya, she could have been taken. Wanda shivers at the thought but she focuses back on you when you finally respond as you lead her to the bed. You feel like you’re going to collapse if you don’t sit down right now.

“Still reeling. I can’t believe this happened.”

Wanda nods in agreement as she leans against you as soon as you’re both sitting on the edge of the bed. She wraps an arm around your waist before she hums in contemplation. She had thought that something like this would happen a lot earlier in Natalya’s life, but she wasn’t going to mention that now. Instead, she focuses on you and the fact that your daughter is sleeping safely in her bedroom.

“Me neither, but we’ll figure out what happened, and the important thing is that she’s safe.”

You can’t argue with this or the fact that you’re relieved to have your daughter safe and sound back at home. You offer your wife a small smile before kissing her cheek and taking a deep breath.

“You’re right, Wands. As usual.”

Her response is an amused smile and you just follow her wordlessly as she leads you to the bathroom.

You’re asleep almost before your head hits the pillow, but you unfortunately don’t stay asleep. You manage a few hours before something wakes you up with a start. You frown in confusion and wait to see if whatever woke you up happens again, but no luck. It’s quiet and you turn to your left to see that Wanda’s sleeping soundly. You sigh before you close your eyes and try to go back to sleep. You don’t know what woke you, but now that you’re up, you’re tense and finding it hard to fall back asleep.

Your mind wanders to the events of yesterday’s party, and you know despite how everything worked out that you won’t be letting your daughter out of your sight for a while. Whenever she leaves the house, she’ll either have you or Wanda within arm’s reach. This thought makes you want to check on Natalya, and you sneak out of bed only a couple of minutes later to see if your daughter is still sleeping peacefully.

You quietly walk down the hall before pushing the door to Natalya’s room open slowly. You see Winston is on the ground and you’re about to grab him and put him back in bed with your daughter when you realize she isn’t there. The sheets are in disarray and her pillow’s almost on the floor, but Natalya’s not anywhere in sight. You try not to panic, but you’re already looking around the room before you get on your knees to look under the bed.

“Natalya? Little Nat, where are you?”

Once you start tearing through the closet you truly start to panic. You stand up and nearly trip over the various shoes and clothes you’ve thrown around on your way to the door. You stop in the doorway when you run into a confused and slightly miffed Wanda. She’d just woken up to sounds coming from her daughter’s room, and given how on edge she was she didn’t hesitate to get up and investigate. When she realized you weren’t in bed, she quickly ran down the hall only for you to almost barrel her over.

“Y/n? What’s wrong? What’s-?”

You shake your head as you grab your wife’s shoulders to steady both of you. You’re starting to walk past her as you speak up in a jumble of words that you hope make sense. You plan on looking around in the other bedrooms before running back to your room to call the police.

“Nat’s not in her bed, Wands.”

Wanda’s eyes widen in surprise before she glances in her daughter’s room to confirm this. She curses under her breath before she runs back to the bedroom to grab her phone. She’s not sure if you even hear her since you’ve run to the next room to check for Natalya.

“I’ll call Piet.”

You see quickly that both of the bedrooms are untouched and after checking the closets, you’re sweating you’re so anxious. You don’t bother to shut the doors as you run back down the hall and look for your wife. She’s still on the phone with her brother and you hear her speaking frantically in her native language. You don’t know what she’s saying, but you hear Pietro’s equally frantic voice as you check to make sure that the security system is still armed. There’s nothing amiss and you start to tremble from the lack of leads and the idea of someone sneaking in here. You force yourself to take a deep breath as you look around frantically, and the sound of Wanda’s increasingly anxious voice fades into the background as you lay eyes on your dogs. They’re still lying in their bed, but they’re awake as they watch you and Wanda panic. You find this odd because usually they’d be all over you and any activity that’s happening. Instead, they’re curled up next to each other in bed with-

“Wanda, she’s here.”

You miss your wife looking over to you and then promptly hanging up after she spots her daughter. She’s sleeping beside her dogs in their oversized bed, and they’re both curled around her protectively with Boone using the brunette’s shoulder as a pillow. You breathe a sigh of relief and almost start crying as you hurry forward to check on your daughter. Rogue’s tail starts to wag and Boone tries to lick you, but you focus on Natalya who’s sleeping soundly despite being covered in dog hair and being squished between the heavy dogs.

“Hey, Little Nat. Wake up.”

You are still trying to calm your breathing when Wanda comes up next to you and kneels by your side. She reaches out for Rogue to scratch him as she waits for Nat to sit up. She grumbles slightly but she sits up and rubs at her eyes with a frown at the sight of her worried parents.

“Is it morning yet, Mama?”

Wanda shakes her head as you hold your arms out for Natalya, and you smile when she starts to crawl toward you.

“No, milaya. Mom went to go check on you, but you weren’t in bed. What are you doing down here?”

Natalya climbs into your lap before wrapping her tiny arms around your waist with a frown. She tries to hide her face in your stomach, but Wanda reaches out for her because this is important. She wants her daughter to look at her.

“I didn’t want to sleep a-alone, and you said no dogs on the bed.”

Both you and Wanda frown at this but seem to realize what Little Nat’s saying. You hate that this happened, and maybe it’s just yesterday’s events that made you freak out, but you’d let the dogs sleep in Nat’s bed if she wanted them to. It was much better than having a heart attack.

Wanda seems to be on the same page, and she smiles softly at her daughter who’s looking at her shyly. She thinks she’s in trouble, but you hold her tightly and kiss the top of her head which makes her look up curiously.

“Okay, next time if you want company come to us first, okay? I was really worried when I didn’t see you in bed.”

Nat’s lower lip juts out in a pout and she shoots you a guilty look before holding you tighter. You watch Wanda run her fingers through your daughter’s tangled hair before shaking her head. She surprises you by what she says next when Nat apologizes.

“Sorry Mommy.”

Wanda’s just grateful that her heart’s started to beat normally again and she didn’t call anyone but her brother. She’ll apologize for waking him up so early tomorrow.

“It’s okay, but from now on the dogs can sleep on your bed. On top of a blanket though. How does that sound?”

Natalya smiles widely and nods in excitement which makes you feel lighter. You let Natalya go and she hugs Wanda quickly before she starts to bounce excitedly in her lap while looking between her redhead mom and her dogs.

“Okay! Can they sleep there now?”

You can’t help but laugh as you see Wanda regret her decision almost immediately, but you nod quickly as you watch Natalya clumsily get to her feet and near tackle her dogs. Wanda sighs but you can tell from her smile that she’s happy as she watches her daughter throw her arms around Rogue’s neck. The shepherd had been watching lazily and he just lets out a surprised huff when Natalya falls on him. You just stand up before reaching out to help your wife to her feet as Natalya tries to coax her dog out of his bed.

“Rogue! Come on let’s go!”

The shepherd considers ignoring her, you can tell, but eventually he sneezes in her face before climbing to his feet. Natalya leads him upstairs after hugging Boone goodnight. You squeeze Wanda’s hand as you lead her upstairs following in your adorable daughter’s footsteps.

“She’s so cute, Wands.”

Wanda sighs in defeat but she can’t argue with you. As she watches Natalya lead Rogue by the collar to her bedroom while talking to him animatedly, she can’t help but be grateful for her daughter’s excitement at something so simple. She’d give a lot to see her daughter smile, and cleaning up a little extra dog fur didn’t seem like a big deal. You two tuck your daughter and Rogue into bed before leaving her to go back to sleep. You release another heavy sigh as you and Wanda arrive back to your bedroom. She wraps an arm around your shoulders before pressing a kiss to the side of your head with a smile.

“She really is, detka, but she’s going to be the death of us.”

You laugh in response but only nod in agreement as you sink back into the bed with a groan. Wanda smiles at you before cuddling up into your side with a yawn. She closes her eyes and hears you switch off the lights before settling beside her with a tired hum. As you both fall back to sleep for the second time that night, you hope that tomorrow will be calmer.

Little Nat Adventures

[hannahhook7744]

Frollo Kid Badun Detective Agency Files;

Cesare Frollo (Getting To Know The Dead):

Name Of The Dead: Cesare Bartholomew Colmcille Frollo. 

Age Of The Dead: 17 years old. 

Father: Judge Claude Frollo.

Mother: A woman rumored to be named ‘Joan’. 

Sibling(s):  

Quasimodo (Older Adoptive Brother),

Cornel Frollo (Younger Half Brother),

Cyriacus Frollo (Younger Half Brother),

Claudine Frollo (Younger Half Sister),

And Magnolia ‘Gigi’ Gothel (Younger Half Sister).

Favorite Food: Grape crepes.

Favorite Color: Black. 

Favorite Toy/Object: Beaded Cross Necklace (he's never had a toy). 

Dream Job/Job Had: According to his sister, Cesare was interested in teaching and likely would have pursued the career path had their father died before he had. 

Hobbies: Reading, theater, playing with his siblings, playing with fire, learning new things, finding out about history, coming up with learning plans, doing projects, studying law, exercising, listening to hymns, and arts and crafts.

Pet(s): None.

Cause Of Death: Stabbed to death by Daciana Gaskit—one of Frollo’s many victims.

Signature Of Person Who Filled Out The Report:

Detective Hermione ‘Hermie’ Bing.

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Cesare Frollo (Death Report):

Cesare Frollo (Death Report):

Name Of Detective: Yzla Sorcerer of Enchancia.

Age Of Detective: 7 years old. 

Date Of Report: December 3rd, Year 12.

Name Of The Deceased: Cesare Bartholomew Colmcille Frollo

Age Of The Deceased: 17 years old. 

File Number: 0001.

Report: The Deceased (17, Male. Child of Judge Claude Frollo) died from blood loss after getting stabbed six times by one of Frollo’s victims—and his half brother, Cornel Frollo’s, grandmother— Daciana Gaskit.

The Deceased reportedly stopped to help the woman up after she tripped in the market when she attacked on June 17th, Year 10, while on his way to a surprise party one of his friends, Hunter de Vil, was throwing him. Nearby witnesses say that one moment the woman was fine and the next she was screaming in (what they assume to be) her native tongue. Conflicting reports from those who speak her language say that she may or may not have mistaken him for the Judge based on their very similar appearances. But these are just rumors. 

Surprisingly, some onlookers quickly rushed to intervene, preventing the elderly woman from getting anymore stabs in on the teen by separating the two—and get some medical aid from one of the few medical staff on the isle at the time, finding one Dr. Martha Hatchaway in under half an hour.

But by then it was too late for the doctor to do anything other than sit with the deceased as he breathed his last breath. 

His next of kin was informed shortly after by the good doctor herself and was given a full Catholic burial (or as close to one as one can have on the isle) and word spread.

It is being looked into at the moment whether or not there was a death certificate issued by any one at the time or not. 

Yzla signing out. 

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

(In Universe) Note: The agency received the photos of the victim from Hunter de Vil and are currently looking into ways to replicate the photos so that the Frollo siblings can have the copies.

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

Author's Note:

Whatever you do, don't think about how Cesare Frollo never got to celebrate any of his seventeen years worth of birthdays. 

Don't think about how Cesare died not knowing that Hunter had thrown him a surprise party after trying to help a woman in the market but did die knowing that his siblings’ shield from their father (him) was gone. 

Don't think about how Cesare died knowing that he was dying because of his father's actions and how he maybe even knew it was his brother’s grandmother killing him. 

Don't think about how long Hunter de Vil must have waited for Cesare to show up before he found out why he wasn't coming. Don't think about how numb Hunter went when he found out that his friend was dead because he was on the way to the party Hunter threw for him. 

Don't think about Hunter de Vil's grief and guilt over the incident or how lonely he must feel after losing one of the few people who can truly understand what he's been through.

Don't think of how Cesare spent his entire life conflicted; trying to be both a good brother and a good son and a good sin-less boy.

And whatever you do, definitely don't think about how Hunter probably carefully picked through the photos he had of Cesare to find the ones where he looked most like a child and least like Frollo so that nobody could look at the photos and blame Cesare for what happened. All for the Badun Detective Agency’s files and all so people could see Cesare how Hunter himself and their few friends had. 

Or how Cesare never got out from under his father's thumb, and because of that, some people will always think that he was just like his father.

(The very thought that caused someone to kill him).

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

Cornel Frollo (Getting To Know The Dead):

Name Of The Dead: Cornel Thomas Howard Sebastian Frollo (Formerly Gaskit). 

Age Of The Dead: 17 years old. 

Father: Judge Claude Frollo.

Mother: Luciana Gaskit.

Sibling(s):  

Quasimodo (Older Adoptive Brother),

Cesare Frollo (Older Half Brother),

Cyriacus Frollo (Younger Half Brother),

Claudine Frollo (Younger Half Sister),

And Magnolia ‘Gigi’ Gothel (Younger Half Sister).

Favorite Food: Szaloncukor. 

Favorite Color: Purple.

Favorite Toy/Object: A handmade doll that he made to resemble his mother, his mother's cross necklace, and the last photo he, his mother, and grandmother ever took together.

Dream Job/Job Had: Shop Owner (on the isle) or space explorer (off the isle). 

Hobbies: Sewing, embroidery, sneaking out, playing games with his siblings, stargazing, researching space, researching different cultures, learning different languages, learning about different cultures, basket weaving, juggling and knife throwing (learned from a couple of visits from Bing’s Circus), arts and crafts, baking, listening to music, crocheting, knitting, rock climbing, dancing, scrapbooking, creating space related models, astronomy, and dnd. 

Pet(s): None. 

Cause Of Death: Flogged to death by Judge Frollo for ‘refusing to repent’. 

Signature Of Person Who Filled Out The Report:

Detective Edmund ‘Eddie’ Balthazar. 

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

Cornel Frollo (Death Report):

Name Of Detective: Reza Vizer of Agrabah.

Age Of Detective: 6 years old. 

Date Of Report: April 19th, Year 13. 

Name Of The Deceased: Cornel Thomas Howard Sebastian Frollo (Formerly Gaskit). 

Age Of The Deceased: 17 years old. 

File Number: 0240. 

Report: The Deceased (17, Male. Child of Judge Claude Frollo and Luciana Gaskit) died from a mix of blood loss, heatstroke, and bluntforce trauma while being flogged by his father, Judge Claude Frollo, for refusing to repent for his perceived sins. 

The Deceased reportedly had gotten into an altercation with the judge that ended up with him being dragged out of the Frollo's Flat and down the stairs of Frollo’s Creperie on April 18th, Year 13. From there a large amount of witnesses saw the Judge flogging the Deceased and getting more and more irate as the Deceased began to pray in what was reported to be his native tongue. 

A few of the witnesses tried to intervene but were intercepted by other onlookers (who were likely trying to stop them for their own safety due to the Judge being known to get violent with those who intervene in the ‘Lord’s work’ (read as: his own work) and Frollo's men. 

The incident has been recorded to have lasted at least an hour. 

His next of kin was informed shortly after, likely by Frollo himself. 

It is being looked into at the moment as to what the Judge did with the body and whether it can be retrieved and given a proper rest with Claudine Frollo, Cyriacus Frollo, and Gigi Gothel's permission. 

Reza signing out. 

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

Note: The pictures were dropped off by an unknown party on the front door of the Badun Detective Agency's HQ.

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

Cyriacus Frollo (Getting To Know The Dead):

Name Of The Dead: Cyriacus Ignatius Vladimir Frollo.

Age Of The Dead: 15 years old.

Father: Judge Claude Frollo.

Mother: Cassandra of Troy. 

Sibling(s):  

Quasimodo (Older Adoptive Brother),

Cesare Frollo (Older Half Brother),

Cornel Frollo (Older Half Brother),

Claudine Frollo (Younger Half Sister),

And Magnolia ‘Gigi’ Gothel (Younger Half Sister).

Favorite Food: Souvlaki. 

Favorite Color: Red. 

Favorite Toy/Object: His cane (because Cornel made it for him and he can hit people, like his father, with it) and an apollo voodoo doll Cornel helped him make. 

Dream Job/Job Had: Actor. 

Hobbies: Playing games with his siblings, pulling pranks, drawing/painting, playing with animals, playing with animals, eavesdropping, listening to music, acting, listening to stories and reading, arts and crafts, listening to soap operas, fishing, frog catching, etc.

Pet(s): A blind frog named ‘Damnation’. 

Cause Of Death: Attempted murder–suicide via jumping from the bell tower with Claudine Frollo.

Signature Of Person Who Filled Out The Report:

Detective Harold ‘Harry’ Badun. 

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

Cyriacus Frollo (Death Report):

Cyriacus Frollo (Death Report):

Name Of Detective: Jason ‘Jace’ Badun. 

Age Of Detective: 8 years old. 

Date Of Report: April 23rd, Year 13. 

Name Of The Deceased: Cyriacus Ignatius Vladimir Frollo.

Age Of The Deceased: 15 years old. 

File Number: 0243. 

Report: The Deceased (15, Male. Child of Judge Claude Frollo and Cassandra of Troy) died on impact upon jumping from the top of the bell tower. 

The main witness, the Deceased’s sister— Claudine Frollo (ten years old at the time)—, accounted that in the week following their older brother, Cornel Frollo’s death, the Deceased had been acting erratic. Muttering about visions and how it wasn't fair, and about how something had to be done. 

Then, on the night of April 23rd, Year 13, the Deceased reportedly woke up Claudine Frollo and helped her slip on her coat and shoes, and helping her collect her stuffed lamb, her baby blanket, and all eight of her pet mice and rats before sneaking them out of Frollo's flat, down the steps of Frollo's Creperie, and to the bell tower. Where he proceeded to try and jump from the tower with her like Claudine Frollo's mother, Delilah, had done several years prior. 

Claudine Frollo managed to loose from her brother’s hold and escape but wasn't able to prevent the Deceased from jumping and by the time she made it to the ground floor, it was too late for anything to be done to help him. 

There is no next of kin to be informed and the body will be retrieved from wherever Frollo chucks it and given a greek burial with the help of Hades. 

Jace signing out.

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

(In universe) Note: the photo is quite a few years outdated but it's one of the only ones that can be found and the agency isn't willing to ask the family for a more updated photo as we know there are few.

[honestlyboringperson]

Real World Characters from the AI Au!

I wanted them to look and feel older!

Dreamworld Version

NOTES

Everyone is one year older, with Homura, Sayaka, and Kyoko being 15, Mami being 16, and Nagisa being 11.

Homura has been a shut in for 1 year, only coming out to hunt wraiths or to go to school, something she seldom does.

Because of this, Homura has a different reputation than her one from the last timeline.

Homura never wears Madoka’s ribbons as she doesn’t want them to get damaged and they remind her of her failure.

The ribbons are kept in a small wooden box.

Mami and Sayaka are a team duo, although Mami has become more closed off about her problems and still puts up her facade.

Sayaka missed her chance to confess so she is focusing solely on her magical girl duties to cope with being a “zombie” in her eyes.

Mami has to force Sayaka to cleanse her soul gem

She has pushed away both Hitomi and Kyousuke, despite Hitomi trying to reconnect.

They haven’t met Kyoko yet.

Kyoko is a pickpocket from Kazamino. She is relatively the same from the last few timelines.

When they do meet, Kyoko and Sayaka are at the height of their opposite ideals so they outright hate each other.

But after seeing the amount of self loathing Sayaka has and seeing herself in her, Kyoko slowly begins to open up.

They gain a sense of security around the other and soon they gain their Rebellion relationship, fighting often and butting heads but still caring a lot about the other.

Mami is distant but somewhat caring towards Kyoko.

Both Mami and Kyoko don’t interact often. They both regret the past a bit and although Kyoko acts somewhat condescending and antagonistic, deep down she doesn’t want to make the possibility of reconnecting impossible.

Nagisa is somehow, still alive. After the death of her mother, she has been staying with some relatives who don’t particularly care nor notice her. She’s a lot more gloomy than usual.

When you do meet her, she is quiet and melancholy but when you begin to spend more time with you and she joins the team, she becomes much more closer to her canon persona.

During this time she still reads tragic fairy tales and novels.

She becomes quite close with Mami.

You throw her a late 11th birthday party when you all get close enough. She is gifted a fixed and washed Mimolette (her doll) in a new outfit as well as new clothes that actually fit her.

Due to her not being Charlotte or being from the law of cycles, she isn’t particularly fond of cheese. She actually is kind of avoidant of it due to the association with her mother.

The game takes place during spring break.

The “final duet” sequence is Homura remembering the times with Madoka and her friends and choosing to not run away from the truth.

The bad ending has her lock herself in her house and never come out, shattering her soul gem when it reaches too much impurities. As the ending song plays, the sky changes like Omori’s bad ending and the final shot is Homura in her bed, with her soul gem shattered on her chest.

The neutral ending/Hikkikomori route has her stay indoors and ends with her back in the hospital as she stopped using magic to heal her body causing her heart issues to spike again. The ending is simply the sound of the electrocardiogram beeping.

The good ending is photographs of Homura’s life with her friends with Madoka’s ribbons in her hair. Scenes include celebrating Nagisa’s 12th birthday, Playing in the arcade with Kyoko and Sayaka, enjoying tea with Mami, playing with Tatsuya, studying with Sayaka and Hitomi, attending Kyousuke’s recital, and finally graduating from middle school.

[darklordazalin]

Azalin Reviews: Darklord Ivan Dilisnya

Domain: Dorvinia then Borca Domain Formation: 715 BC Power Level: 💀💀💀⚫⚫ Sources: Secrets of the Dread Realms (3e), Domains of Dread (2e), Realm of Terror (2e), Domains and Denizens (2e), Ravenloft 3e, Ravenloft Gazetteer IV (3e)

Ivan Dilisnya is the Darklord of the former Domain of Dorvinia and now the co-Darklord of Borca with his cousin and aptly named “Dark Twin”, Ivana Boritsi.

Dorvinia was a small region of mountains, evergreen forests, and valleys without any form of formal rule. How it managed to survive for 25 years based largely on the decisions made at the whims of a small, petty man with a love for overacting and toxins is beyond me.

Dorvinia functioned much like how a child would rule a courtroom – bribe the child with the right “toy” and you would find whatever justice they felt like dealing out. Of course, said justice changed from day to day much like a child who enjoys broccoli one day then decides its the absolute worst thing you could put before them the next.

The Dilisnyas’ history in Ravenloft is as old as the first Darklord (but decidedly NOT the first vampire), Strahd. The family was present at the von Zarovich wedding where Strahd thought it was a wonderful idea to murder his brother, then attempt to woo his would-be sister-in-law. We all know how that worked out, but perhaps some of the Dilsinyas had a bit of foresight into these matters, for some claimed illness and left before Strahd’s transformation and murdering of the majority of the wedding guests.

Ivan was born on the same moonless night in December as Ivana. This day is known as the Night of Dead Man’s Get in Borca and every year these cousins celebrate their birthday by inviting everyone to their birthday celebration. Their separate birthday celebrations. It is a way for these jealous, bickering cousins to determine where their subjects loyalties lie. I wonder if anyone has attempted to attend both parties in one evening?

Ivan was cruel at a young age. He enjoyed torturing animals as early as 6 and committed his first murder by 10 by poisoning a young serving girl for the crime of taking a pastry from the kitchen. At 12, with no real motive, he committed matricide by poisoning his own mother in such a way to make it appear that she died of an unknown disease. I, personally, would have named this disease “Ivan”.

Ivan seemed to only show affection towards his elder sister, Kristina. This affection was more akin to obsession than actual love and drove Ivan to acts of violent jealousy. Kristina truly loved her brother and was blind to obvious evil little poisoners ways. Something she would come to regret once she married Edgar Leskovich.

Ivan was the sort that would destroy anyone or anything that stole attention and affection away from him, so Edgar was an obvious threat. The jealousy seethed inside him over the course of their courtship and marriage. Once they had a child, Ivan finally snapped, poisoned them both, adding sororicide to his ledger. The child was saved by their midwife before Ivan could get to them.

Ivan, unable to conceal his crimes from his family, fled into the Mists to avoid their wraith and Dorvinia was formed. A year later he married Lucretia Marzeya. Somehow he managed to go four years without committing uxoricide and Lucretia had three children with Ivan. All of which, he was told, were stillborn. Though, far more likely his wife spirited the children away before Ivan could add filicide to his murder bingo card.

Dorvinia was a short lived Domain, surviving a mere 25 years before it was absorbed by Borca during the Grand Conjunction. Ivan loves to wave his fingers and pout while throwing an overdone and far too dramatically acted temper tantrum and say this is my fault, but he was the one who decided to leave Dorvinia to visit his dear cousin because he was scared of a few tremors.

Ivan now co-rules Borca with Ivana. Ivan never learned how to share, so instead of working with his cousin, Ivan despises her and does all he can to gain favor from the many poisonous peacocks that make up the Borcan nobility.

Ivan surrounds himself with lavish plays, ballrooms, and feasting halls in the Degravo estate, which is well guarded. I suggest never asking Ivan about his “Playroom” unless you want a first hand demonstration of some of his favorite torturing devices.

As a Darklord Ivan is known for his subtle manipulation hidden behind his foppish demeanor, over the top temper tantrums, and, naturally, the ability to poison any object he touches. He is cursed to no longer have a sense of taste. Not to be confused with his love of “acting” and dressing in costumes, this sense of taste is quite literal. Food and drink hold no actual taste to him and turn to ash upon his tongue. This drives him to hold lavish parties where he enjoys serving both delicacies and rotten, maggot covered food. He takes great offense if someone appears to enjoy the food too much or not enough.

One may wonder how such a person manages to maintain loyalty. As Ivan has solved all things in life with poison, it should come as no surprise that he uses poison for this purpose as well. Most of his servants have been poisoned with “Borrowed Time”. These servants will die unless they are administered an elixir, Mercy, each day before sunset.

Ivan continues to age whereas Ivana does not. This leads our jealous, overgrown child to believe Ivana is hiding the secret of mortality and eternal youth from him. Perhaps she is. Who am I to give away such secrets?

Despite his child-like and foppish mannerisms, Ivan should not be underestimated. He holds a powerful position in Borca and can make or break anyone with the wave of his hand. His ability to poison any object has been the downfall to invading armies. Though it was Vlad’s army, so we can’t give him TOO much credit for defeating that failure mercenary. Though, if anyone ever gets a hold of the recipe for Mercy, I feel Ivan would quickly have a rather large uprising to deal with.

Domain: Dorvinia then Borca Domain Formation: 715 BC Power Level: 💀💀⚫⚫⚫ Sources: van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft (5e)

Ivan’s ties to Dorvinia are not mentioned within Dr. Ricky’s new guide, nor is he named Ivana’s Dark Twin, but is referred to as her elder cousin. I’m sure Ivan is very pleased by that development and isn’t throwing a temper tantrum right now as he reads this.

His beginnings are similar to previous accounts, though we a few less “cides” checked off on his frequent murderer club card during his childhood. Instead, it was the Dilisnya’s pets and servants that fell to his murderous ways as his parents covered them up.

Ivan had no desire to grow up. Honestly, I can’t really blame him there. Growing up is very overrated. I can’t remember the last time I felt that naïveté of youth that we so often take for granted. Anyway, I digress…Ivan surrounded himself in fantasy to escape responsibility. He indulged in child-like behaviors and crafted toys and games he forced his sister, Kristina, to play with him. His parents, ever the enablers, allowed this behavior to continue and even set up whimsical rooms and diversions for him throughout their estate.

Being a very stable individual, when he discovered that Kristina was being sent away to a boarding school, Ivan snapped and murdered his entire family in a single evening with his toy creations. Perhaps he wanted to fill up his murder club card before it expired.

As the co-Darklord of Borca, Ivan is a feeble, ancient man who uses a large spider pram to get around. The spider pram carries him throughout his estate, which now mostly resembles a demented child’s playroom full of murderous clockwork toys, animals that would be better off in Markovia, and toy-enacted operas. Well, at least he still retained his curse of having “no taste”.

Ivan is afraid to leave his home, so our Tormentors gifted him with the ability to deliver letters to anyone anywhere he pleases. Ghosting him doesn’t work, so try not to get the attention of this childish stalker or after sending you hundreds of letters he may set forth in his trusty spider pram and greet you in person.

He’s also very good at convincing other’s that he’s a helpless child. Well, they say that the best lies are closest to the truth…

Lastly, he can make any toy he desires. Mostly this amounts to servants and fake versions of the family he killed because he’s a sad and lonely man with only a spider pram to keep him company.

He still retains his hatred of Ivana, though it’s more because she now holds the position he was supposed to inherit. Ivan…you did inherit it. Perhaps spend a little less time writing fan letters to everyone and a little more time investigating this little tidbit.

A childish toy maker in a spider pram makes the creepiest of stalkers, but not an overly powerful one. Although Ivan’s toys are immune to Ivana’s poison, his overall presence and influence over the realm of Borca no longer holds the same force that Ivana holds. Despite the lovely spider pram, this new Ivan does not appear to be as powerful as his predecessor. 2/5 Skulls, mostly for the spider pram.

[codename-mom]

It's a piece of cake

Summary: Jack is turning six and Penelope wants to do something for the occasion, but Hotch may have a bad news for her. Or maybe not.

Characters: BAU team (Pentagone JJ's era) and Jack, Will and Henry

Contents: TW mention of nausea, but it's completely safe. :)

This is a text written for the CM Office Party challenge organized by @imagining-in-the-margins.

PS : English is not my mother language so they are necessarily mistakes. Sorry about that.

___

                Hotch was trying to figure out why there was a seventeen pennies discrepancy in the agency's accounts when a tornado rolled into his office.

“Sir! Sir! Sir!”

“Garcia, calm down, he ordered her softly. And stop calling me “sir”, please.”

The young woman had been working under him for seven years and still hadn't broken this embarrassing habit. He knew why she did it – because he still impressed her despite the deplorable state she'd already seen him in – but it bothered him terribly every time. This "sir", supposedly respectful, added twenty years to his real age and added a layer of austerity to his already cold and distant appearance.

“… Hotch?” she murmured, suddenly shy.

“Better. What… why are you here?”

“I don’t disturb you, I hope?”

Aaron glanced in the direction of his interminable table of numbers and commas, still broken, then returned to his guest.

“… No. Go on.”

“Okay, she commented, starting to fidget again. It’s Jack’s birthday this week, isn’t it?”

“Yes. Thursday.”

“Perfect! That's exactly what I noted, she pointed out with a certain pride. Would… would you like me to prepare a little surprise party for him this weekend?”

If there was one thing the director hated, it was seeing disappointment on the faces of people he loved. And even more so on Penelope's plump face, which held a special place in his heart. Jack adored the technical analyst, who gave him all sorts of odds and ends every chance she got, and who told him extraordinary stories with boundless energy. And the agent cherished the little boy as if he were her own, never failing to notice that he was the unit's first baby – a fact that seemed crucial to her. Both would have gladly accepted this proposal. But…

“… In other words, there's already a party planned for him this weekend. Saturday, to be more precise.”

All the former hacker's enthusiasm died down like a soufflé. Hotch had to restrain himself from rising from his chair and taking her in his arms. However, his interlocutor was resourceful and her ingenious brain suggested an alternative route.

“And… and you’ve already organized it all?”

“I was all for it, but Jessica stopped me when I started to estimate precisely how much food each child would eat, taking into account their intolerances, allergies and other specific dietary requirements.”

He'd already built a chart based on what he'd read on the Internet, but his ex-sister-in-law had closed his laptop without even glancing at it.

“So nobody's organizing it anymore?”

“Actually, someone does. Jessica.”

“Ah. And you think she could need a hand?”

He sighed, feeling that this conversation could go round in circles for several more hours if he didn't quickly put things right.

“Penelope, what do you have in mind exactly?”

“Well, I'd like to throw a party in honor of Jack – who, I remind you, is the BAU first-born – with the whole team, as well as Will and Henry.”

“I see. Look, Jack loves you but… he’s about to be six, he just want to celebrate his birthday with kids of his age. With his school mates.”

Aaron saw that his protégée looked even more distressed than a few minutes earlier. He felt as if an invisible hand were crushing his heart. And it didn't get any better when she said, nose down and eyes wet:

“… Oh. Okay. So… sorry to have bothered you, sir. Well, Hotch, I mean.”

She slowly turned her back on him and walked away towards the door. Logic would have dictated that this discussion should end on this sad note, but he couldn't bring himself to let her leave with that discouraged expression. And so it was the turn of his brain's cogs to activate and deliver a parry that would suit everyone.

“Penelope.”

“Yes, sir?” she answered cheerlessly.

Looking sheepish, she almost stood on the threshold, her brown irises turned towards the carpet, as she no longer dared to face her superior's piercing gaze.

“…There's always a way to throw him a second birthday party the following weekend, he said, controlling the timbre of his voice as best he could. As long as he has cake and presents, he's happy, you know.”

The round ginger’s attitude changed in a split second. She straightened her shoulders, lifted her nose, smiled again and a warm glow lit up her eyes.

“So you don't mind if I prepare something for him?”

“No.”

“And you're giving me carte blanche?”

A shiver ran down the giant's spine.

“… Yes, of course.”

“Oh, thank you! Love you!”

She immediately ran in his direction, rounding the desk at full speed to take him in her arms, before setting off again at the same pace towards the exit. He then heard her trumpet the good news to the whole team. He didn't know if he'd made the right decision, but he'd clearly annihilated any sadness she'd felt earlier. A good thing done, he thought with a smile. Then he turned his attention back to his spreadsheet and frowned. Where did this penny difference come from?

                Two weeks later, as planned, father and son went to Garcia’s home. To keep the surprise going, the young woman had invited everyone to her home, and Aaron had used the pretext of a celebration of some kind to take his offspring with him. For good measure, the boy had drawn a group portrait, which he held proudly in his hands while his father pressed the doorbell. The hostess quickly opened the door and exclaimed, cotillions as necklaces:

“And here is the hero of the day! Welcome, my little duckling!”

She placed a kiss on his cheek, leaving a cherry-red mark.

“Hero of the day?”

“Come in,” Hotch advised him, smiling.

Jack took a few steps into the apartment and discovered his name banner hanging from the ceiling. All the guests present cried out in chorus to wish him a happy birthday, and the child was left stunned.

“Happy?” asked him the tenant.

“Yeah! That’s so cool! Thank you, Penelope!" he said, jumping around her neck, a smile reaching up to his ears.

“You’re welcome, sweetheart.”

And she kissed the top of his head, as pleased as her guest of honor. She then released him so that he could rush over to the other agents and greet them appropriately.

“And all the team is here! So great!" he exclaimed, in the arms of the former liaison officer.

“We wouldn't have missed it for a million.”

“Not even to catch a bad guy?”

All eyes turned to the unit manager, who had taken the time to undo his jacket while following his son going around.

“We would have postponed it until the following weekend," he replied confidently.

The little boy was fascinated by superheroes, and rubbing shoulders with FBI agents always made him particularly happy. He felt extraordinarily privileged because he really knew people who were saving lives on a daily basis, like those characters he watched on television. And since Aaron only wanted the happiness of his descendant, he knew that the analyst's idea would please him enormously. To tell the truth, even if it hadn't been for his birthday, he would have been content to see them.

“Did you know?" the toddler questioned, coming back to him, his hair a mess.

“I've had a few clues, yes," he said, helping him off with his coat.

Spencer had picked up his drawing along the way and seemed to be studying it very seriously at Will's side. Henry was perched in his arms, gawking at the work. The two boys were two years apart, and the eldest's artistic talents left his cadet in awe.

“Come and sit down, everyone! Penelope called out, clapping her hands. Cake is ready.”

Everyone immediately moved closer to the table and chose a seat according to their preferences. Jack was invited to sit at one end, on a booster seat, and this attention was just right for him. Presiding over the assembly, he eagerly awaited the delicacy that the luscious redhead had prepared especially for him. Candles lit, barrels releasing clouds of sparks, she walked towards the group, who began to sing more or less in unison. The kid was walking on air. Cheered on by the spectators, he blew out all the flames and received a round of applause. Everyone congratulated him, and his delight grew even stronger.

                Then the cook removed all the candles to begin the cutting, and the munchkin's smile was instantly wiped away. Aaron immediately understood why.

“What? What's wrong?" worried the event organizer.

“Uh… Sorry, apologized her superior, embarrassed; I should have warned you, but Jack doesn't like pineapple.”

The cake boasted magnificent yellowish slices and a distinctive sweet smell emanated from the edifice of cream and fruit. There was absolutely no doubt about its composition.

“Oh, my God! Really?”

“Yes,” confirmed the saddened child.

His father guessed that he was blaming himself at not being able to appreciate the cake she had baked, and took his hand to reassure him. His son wasn't the most demanding of eaters, so he hadn't expected the computer expert to select the one food he refused to eat. He was therefore the only one to blame in the story, even if there were more urgent matters to deal with. All eyes were on the bespectacled blonde, who looked distraught.

“Oh. Uh… Well… I… Maybe… Hold on.”

She abandoned the spatula she had planned to use to cut the slices for her guests and returned to the kitchen. Hotch saw JJ and Emily wince. They felt bad for their fellow sister.

“Yes! Exclaimed their hostess victoriously. I… I still have some brownie, if you want.”

“Yeah! I love that!”

“So, the gentleman's brownie is advanced, she said, her joy restored. Just give me time to warm it up a bit.”

From his seat, Aaron saw her cut a generous slice, place it on a plate and pop it into the microwave. After setting the timer and pressing the start button, she returned to her guests and, with a smile on her face, continued:

“Is pineapple cake okay for everyone?”

“Yes, of course,” affirmed JJ.

“Perfect!” commented Dave, unfolding his towel and slipping it into the collar of his shirt.

“Don't hesitate to give me a big slice," asked Derek, already holding out his trough.

“Wonderful! Give me your plates.”

She then began diligently to break up her culinary work and, with an expert gesture, distributed the first edible block to her nearest neighbor. The manager watched her do it without saying a word, surveying the size of the remaining shares out of the corner of his eye. Then the oven emitted a loud "Ting!" and she let go of her utensils to bring back the day's celebrity snack. With the steaming brownie safely in the boy's hands, she planted new candles on the shiny crust. She continued dismembering her cake until all were served, then set fire to the wicks, lighting up Jack's already bright eyes.

                The disorganized choir began singing again, and the kid repeated his feat before the wax dripped onto the chocolate. After the applause, everyone melt into their meal, nibbling the stacked structure of pastry, cream and fruit spoonful after spoonful, all the while chatting happily. Aaron looked at his son's ecstatic face with a smile on his face. He had brown crumbs all around his mouth and chocolate on the tip of his nose, but his father was delighted for him. Seeing his offspring happy was what mattered most to him, notwithstanding the vital importance of his work for the well-being of his fellow citizens. The toddler met his gaze and he returned his blissful expression. Then Penelope's irises intercepted his and slid down to his still-full plate. He hastily swallowed another mouthful.

                Then it was time for gifts, and Jack energetically tore up all the colored papers before squealing happily as he discovered each of his presents. The profilers were right on target without having received any clues from the giant. The youngster was proud to show him all the toys he'd received, and commented on each one. Like a movie star, he thanked all his benefactors on the fly, his latest trophy still in his hand, and declared that they were "awesome". In response to this assertion, Garcia threw back a round of cake, offering a sizeable slice to her boss, who thanked her with a nod. Behind his navel, his digestive system snorted violently as the caramelized odor reached his nostrils. He clenched his teeth.

                A little later, while Jack, Will, Derek and Dave had taken their places on the sofa to play video games, and Spencer, Emily and the tenant of the premises were chatting in another corner of the living room, JJ and Aaron were still seated at the table. He noticed the crinkling of his former liaison officer's eyelids. She was staring at him with too much insistence for his taste, but he guessed why.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, I… - he managed a pause – I try to convince my stomach to digest what I forced it to ingurgitate.”

As if to confirm his words, the principal concerned rushed dangerously under his ribs.

“What do you mean?" she raised an eyebrow, puzzled.

“I… I hate pineapple.”

For as long as he could remember, he had loathed this fruit. He hated its taste as much as its fibrous texture and shunned it like the plague. When he got Jack back after almost two years without seeing him grow up, he had to rediscover little by little everything the child would or wouldn't eat, sometimes coming back several times to make sure that the first refusal was the result of a genuine disgust and not a simple apprehension of the novelty. In fact, he'd had to put pineapple back in his shopping basket, praying he wouldn't have to finish it. In the end, it was Jessica who took charge, as her nephew rejected this food with at least as much force as his progenitor.

“What? Croaked JJ, before lowering her voice. But… you ate two slices of her cake.”

“I know, he growled, holding back another retching. But did you see the look on her face when she found out Jack wouldn't eat it? I wasn't going to tell her that I didn't either. She prepared this birthday party for two weeks.”

“Aaron, did you just force yourself to swallow two slices of a cake filled with a fruit you hate just so you wouldn't upset her?”

“Yes.”

Jennifer shook her head in dismay.

“It’s going to kill you one day, you know.”

“And what was I supposed to do? He retorted immediately. Tell her I find it disgusting.”

“No, you could have told her that you don't like pineapple either and that you wouldn't have minded a slice of brownie yourself, she suggested in a tone of the obvious. She's the one who made it, she would have been happy that you liked her recipe. Even if it wasn't the one originally intended.”

Hotch analyzed this proposal and realized that it was not without meaning. On a contrary. And it would have spared him that unpleasant feeling of being on the deck of a sinking ship. Drops of sweat beaded on his forehead and icy waves crisscrossed his entire torso as he couldn't help swallowing to repel what was at the back of his throat.

“… Too late.”

“Okay. How high are you on the nausea scale?”

“So much so that if anyone ever says the name of this fruit again, I can't guarantee that I'll keep it all.”

Just uttering those words made his esophagus rebel, and he had to concentrate not to let go.

“I'll see if I've got anything in my bag to help you get over the hump,” said his neighbor, looking at him strangely, probably torn between pity and the desire to slap him in the face.

“Thank you.”

“And next time, speak.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

JJ stood up with a smile and reached for her purse. In the meantime, Jack returned to his father and climbed onto his lap, not without putting all his weight on his belly, already battered from the inside. Aaron put on a brave face, however, so as not to spoil the party.

“Do you have fun?”

“Yeah! Confirmed the little boy. Spencer, he’s doing magic tricks so great!”

“Yes, I’ve seen it.”

“How is he doing?”

“I don’t know. Those are secrets of magician.”

Sitting further back than the multi-graduate's spectators, he saw what the latter couldn't, and thus understood some of the young agent's sleight of hand. But he would say absolutely nothing to keep Reid's mystery to his son.

“Can you do magic tricks too?”

“No.”

“Oh, he said, disappointed. Why?”

“Because. I can’t do everything. No one can do everything.”

“Oh,” he repeated, pouting.

Year after year, the boy realized that his extraordinary dad, who saved so many people and stopped so many villains, was perhaps not so fantastic after all. Sure, he still had an impeccable suit, a very nice watch and an FBI card that opened a lot of doors, but he couldn't cook, wasn't extremely wealthy, didn't fly the BAU’s private jet, couldn't fix electronic games and, now, had no gift for magic. The toddler assimilated this new disillusionment while his progenitor – usually attentive to this kind of tragic revelation – tried to ignore the acid smell that rose up his nose.

“Dad?”

“Yes, Jack.”

“I thought you don’t like pineapple.”

“I don’t,” he admitted with a feverish smile.

“So why did you eat the cake?”

“Because your father is an idiot,” declared JJ reappearing by their side.

She sat down in her place, grabbed the water jug placed in the middle of the table and filled the titan's glass.

“Really?” wondered the youngster, fluttering his eyelids.

Like all children, he did not perceive the second degree, which the adults around him handled with varying degrees of dexterity. At six, he was just beginning to grasp that he wasn't always being told the truth, and that some of the answers he was given were in fact humorous red herrings. But systematically, he took all the statements made by grown-ups at face value in the first place.

“What JJ means is that, in order not to make Penelope sad, I've agreed to eat something that's going to make me sick, he confessed, before taking the glass in which a pale yellow mixture now sparkled. But, thanks to the magic of this, it should get better.”

“What's that?" he asked immediately, curious.

“Secret," quipped the blonde as Hotch sipped his life-saving beverage.

Jack watched him do this for a moment then redirected his attention to ex-agent Jareau, his discreet eyebrows furrowed.

“But I didn't want to make Penelope sad either.”

“No, but you're all forgiven, the mother reassured him, stroking his cheek. Don’t worry.”

“Is that true?”

“Yes," confirmed his father, putting down his glass before kissing him on the forehead.

The rest of the afternoon passed without a hitch, with JJ's magic potion working beyond his patient's expectations. Then came the terrible moment of separation, the only couple invited indicating that it was time for them to go home – a bath and a meal awaited Henry, who grunted with fatigue.

“There's some cake left, Garcia pointed out, appointing the third of the pastry that was still intact. Who want some?”

“Me!" Spencer replied sharply, raising his arm.

“I wouldn’t say no,” Rossi agreed.

“I'll be fine," said Derek, who had had the largest portions of the group.

“Ditto, supported Prentiss, satiated. I'm already going to have to roll back to my car…”

The analyst served the gourmands, then turned her gaze to the last ones not to have spoken.

“Hotch?”

“Uh… that is..." he stammered, thinking quickly to get out of this trap.

“I know Jack doesn't like it, but you and Jessica can always eat some.”

He opened his mouth, not knowing what to say, but felt a violent kick strike his shin under the table. He then met the menacing gaze of the wiry blonde beside him. The message was clear: he had to refuse this proposal at all costs. The problem remained to find the right reason not to leave with something that neither he nor his son would eat, without hurting the feelings of the person who had taken the time to cook it.

“A… actually, Jessica doesn’t eat it either. She’s… she’s allergic.”

“Oh.”

At the edge of his field of vision, he saw JJ's bluish irises roll into her eye sockets.

“On the other hand, he continued, I'd like your brownie recipe. Jack loved it.”

“Of course! Rejoiced the pastry chef energetically. No problem. I’ll send you an e-mail.”

“Great.”

“Yeah!" exclaimed the little boy, salivating in anticipation.

Jennifer and her companion retrieved what was left, but not without her gaze lingering on the giant. He couldn't decide whether she resented him for piling one lie on top of another, or whether she appreciated the fact that he had reached a compromise in spite of everything. At this hour, however, he was mostly happy that his son had had an excellent second birthday party and that it hadn't turned into a disaster in his desire not to offend anyone. One day, perhaps, he'd find the courage to express his true feelings; in the meantime, it was time to take all these toys home without leaving a single accessory behind.

___

And this is the second entry for the CM Office Party challenge. This one was written just for the occasion (as the next one). That was fun! :D

I love to describe Hotch as the silly idiot he can be sometimes (remember when he litteraly beg to go back to work when the doctor was saying that he's going to be deaf). XD

[beardedmrbean]

A Michigan teen who doused her sleeping father with a chemical drain cleaner because he was too drunk to drive her to a hair appointment grinned before the cameras when she was sprung from prison after just 506 days.

Megan Imirowicz, 19, faced a possible life sentence when she was found guilty in June of tossing lye powder on her dad, Konrad Imirowicz, 64, while he was sleeping, the Oakland Press reported.

The attack caused extensive chemical burns that required his feet and part of his leg to be amputated, as well as infections and kidney failure.

He was unable to recover from the severe injuries and died after five months in the hospital, on March 6, 2022.

Imirowicz denied throwing lye at her dad and claimed she had thrown some bread at him to wake him up.

Prosecutors said she attacked him because he was drunk and was unable to take her to a hair salon before her 18th birthday party, according to the outlet. Imirowicz was sentenced Tuesday to one year in jail, with credit for time served — meaning she walked free after the hearing. The teen was also given five years probation for the crime.

The young woman, smiling at the cameras, admitted she was shocked when she heard the slap-on-the-wrist sentence from Oakland County Judge Victoria Valentine, Court TV reported.

“I was praying for a miracle today and that’s what I got,” Imirowicz said.

“I’m really happy I get to go home with my family. I’m scared to feel anything about my dad right now. I miss him a lot. I’m not ready.”

After being greeted by her sister Morgan and brother Ian, who had pleaded for leniency, Imirowicz headed to a local McDonald’s, where she ordered Chicken McNuggets and French fries, according to the outlet.

Earlier, Imirowicz made a tearful plea in front of the judge as she read from a statement.

“Nineteen years ago, I was placed into the arms of the first man to ever love me, the man I’m lucky enough to call my dad. Growing up he became so much more, he was a storyteller, a tooth fairy, a friend, and hero, through it all the one thing never changed, was that he was mine,” the Groveland Township woman sobbed.

“One of the biggest things overlooked in this case is that me and my siblings lost my dad too. That loss has severely broken us,” she added. “The prosecution has tried to make me look like a monster but that’s not me and never was.”

Imirowicz also quoted the Bible.

“The evil are ensnared by the transgressions of their lips, but the righteous escape from trouble,” she said, quoting Proverbs 12:13, Law and Crime reported.

Her mother, Julie Conrad, also asked the judge to go easy on Imirowicz.

“We were a broken family before this began and now, we are even more broken, while her (Megan) age and her body is 19 years old. Her maturity and emotional level are not that of an adult,” she said.

Chief Assistant Prosecutor David Williams told the Oakland Press that “this was not the sentence we advocated for, however, the judge ultimately decides what sentence will be imposed.”

Megan was the second child the couple had adopted and was brought home to her older brother, Austin, when she was just a few days old.  

[wylanlupin]

Wolfstar Microfic 326 words

transfem Sirius, Lupin-Family, fluff

Moony's Birthday

"Hello auntie Sirius," Dóchas greets him, grinning from ear to ear. "Hey Chasy!" With a smile on her face, she wraps her arms around Dóchas and runs her fingers through his niece's dark blonde hair.

Remus' little sister Seren and her husband Rian appear behind her at that moment. They immediately fall into each other's arms and greet each other wildly.

Hope joins them and greets her daughter and granddaughter as well as her son-in-law.

Suddenly, loud footsteps can be heard on the stairs, which sounds like an elephant coming downstairs. Teddy comes hurtling round the corner and falls into his cousin's arms. Uncle and aunt are also greeted politely.

He is visibly followed by Lyall, who greets the rest of his family.

"Where's the birthday boy?" asks Seren, addressing Sirius. Sirius and Teddy have also arrived just before the (Lupin) Cavanaugh's.

Three days ago, Remus' had his 37th birthday. Now, on Saturday, everyone gathers at the Lupin's house because Hope has invited them.

Sirius and Remus were very relieved not to have to throw a birthday party, and their friends were also very understanding.

"Just out for a walk with Padfoot and Stella," he replied and just then the front door opens.

Padfoot comes running into the house wagging his tail and greets all the new arrivals.

Sirius immediately rushes to the door and takes their newborn baby from Remus. "Hey Stella," she whispers softly, stroking his daughter's cheek. She looks at her mother with the same grey eyes.

"Didn't she want to sleep?" he asks Remus, who is taking off his shoes and hanging his jacket on his heels. "Nope, not when her mum's not around."

He looks fondly at Sirius and Stella before turning round and greeting his sister and her husband and Dócha.

When the little (Black-)Lupin family arrived, Stella was very restless and Padfoot also had too much energy, so Remus took them for a little walk.

[shizuokadivision]

ARB Birthday Special: Sakura Kito

 ~~ May 31st ~~

“I always tell the truth. Even when I lie.”

Login Lines:

“I’m not in the mood for any interruptions right now. I’m swamped, so either say what you want to say or get out.” 

“A.. gift? …My birthday is today, isn't it? I had forgotten all about it. Thanks for reminding me.” 

Voice Lines: 

“Birthdays huh? Can't say I ever really celebrated mine growing up. My bitch of a stepmother would've thrown a fit if she learned that we were celebrating the day of my birth. I was after all a living reminder of her husband’s affair.” 

“My men really do need to learn the meaning of the word secrecy. I just caught a few of them whispering to each other about the party they're throwing me tonight. I guess it's the thought that counts. Now I just have to pretend I didn't know what they had planned when they surprise me.” 

“Well, I guess I'm not getting any more work done today. I'm already receiving gifts from various emissaries from the other yakuza families around Japan. I would say that I'm pleased to get them, but we all know they're just political appeasements at best.” 

“The Katen even managed to send me something as well. It was a crate of some of the finest sake in Yokohama. He even made Aohitsugi deliver it. Ha! The look on his face was one I’ll forever savor.”

“I’m surprised you got me something, Kanon, no offense, but considering your views on festivities, it's not much of a stretch to assume you'd do nothing. Huh…that's surprisingly nice of you,  Kanon, I’m not going to attempt to answer that, but I guess I should be more grateful. What did you get me then?”

“The Nozama Family? What about them? A visit? What do you mean no longer a problem? Kanon, what did you do!? I’m sorry?! Kanon, that is biological warfare! You can’t do that! Why? That goes beyond breaking a simple law! You just committed a straight-up war crime! At least tell me the zombie apocalypse isn't going to start soon. *stares* Kanon…this is why I always assume the worst of you.”

“Hello to you too, Reika. I assume you're here to give me a gift. *snorts* I guess I should count myself lucky then. Oi! We’re the same age, Reika. Hell, you’re going to turn thirty before me. The only reason I'm going to go gray early is because of all the stress you and Kanon give me.”

“Honestly, Reika you didn't need to get me a gift, you really didn’t…need...what the fuck!? A fucking arrest warrant?! Fucking really, Reika? I swear to god Reika, you're lucky I consider you one of my closest friends because if anyone else tried that shit there would be hell to pay. What the fuck do you mean poisoning me?! ...I fucking can't with you right now Reika.” 

“Shinji? How many times do I have to tell you that you don't have to call me ma’am? *sighs* Kanon and Reika gave me their gifts and what a…surprise they were. For you? I always have a moment. You didn’t have to Shinji not after everything you did for me growing up. Okay…only because it's from you Shinji.” 

“Shinji isn't this…your mother's necklace? …Daughter? Shinji…I have always thought of you as a father. I…you don't know how much your words mean to me and I am honored that you're willing to give me something as precious as your mother’s necklace. Thank you…Dad.”

Kanon Lines:

“Happy Birthday, Sakura. Congratulations on surviving another year. Hm? Oh yes. That's a valid hypothesis but you forget one thing you're one of the few people I will participate in these odious celebrations for. Why do you and Reika always assume the worst of me?” 

“Now as for your gift, I'm sure you remember complaining about that yakuza family down in Hamamatsu. So I’ve taken the liberty of going down and paying them a little visit. I’m pleased to let you know that they will no longer be a problem. All I did was release a parasitic flesh-eating bacteria that I’d been cultivating for a while. It still needs work as it took a full 30 minutes for all the inhabitants to die. *raises eyebrow* Why not? What do you take me for Sakura? An idiot? I took the initiative by setting the entire base and surrounding land on fire to prevent the bacteria from spreading beyond what was necessary.”  

Reika Lines:

“Happy Birthday to the big bad boss herself! Well, duh! Do you really think I wouldn't give one of my dearest friends a gift for her birthday? Besides another year, and you’ll be thirty. Maybe so, but unlike you, I take much better care of my appearance, and besides, out of the two of us, who's more likely to have our hair turn gray first? Anyways, here's your present.”

“Ha! Payback’s a bitch, isn't it? I told you I would get you back! How does it feel, hm? You’ll think twice before giving someone a prank for their birthday now, won't you? Hahaha! Oh quit being a bitch about it. In fact, I let you off lightly. My original plan had me poisoning you. Not enough to kill you, obviously, just enough to make you mildly ill. Love you too, Sakura.” 

Bonus! Shinji Lines:

“Ma’am? *laughs* Forgive me then, Saki-chan. Hm? You look quite apprehensive. Ah yes, I heard their gifts were ‘unique’. Is this an inconvenient time for you then? I know that you have grown tired of gifts today but I got you something for your birthday, so I hope you’ll accept it. I wanted to, Saki-chan.”  

“It is. She gave it to me before she passed and told me to pass it on to any daughter I might have. Sakura, we may not be related by blood, but I consider you to be my daughter. You have been ever since you came up to me all those years ago and asked me to teach you how to fire a gun. So, it's only right I give you this. Happy birthday, Saki-chan.” 

[guessimate]

Welcome to the last post of round IV, in which we are visiting the Oranges... whose house was immediately getting burgled. A female thief was trying to steal something from them (I have no idea what she wanted to steal, perhaps the easel... or maybe just Ninurta's heart).

I might take the anyone can fight burglars mod out of my game, as it works a bit too well, but as Ninurta wanted to meet someone new to date, I thought it was a good way of having him meet someone...

I teleported her over the morning following the burglary. It was Ninurta's birthday, and he was feeling flirty. The burglar is a pretty mean Popularity sim, so she probably doesn't enjoy losing fights all the time. Ninurta likes her way more than she likes him, and I don't think she'll be his true love, especially that he rolled the want to have five first dates again... But at least he enjoyed his birthday and got a new lady friend!

~*~

Tefnut Bruni's wish finally came true, and she became Damu Orange's girlfriend. Damu didn't roll the want to go steady, but he did fear being rejected. They also both wanted to take their relationship to another level during their date, which made Damu fall in love with her...

The head of the Orange family wanted to throw a party, so he threw a birthday party for himself, during which his son got married, too. Tefnut's parents and oldest siblings came to the party, so it was a perfect opportunity to turn this occassion into a betrothal or wedding ceremony as well after Ninurta had aged up.

Both Ninurta and Damu became friends with Tefnut's parents (who have 10 best friends each now, mostly because they have so many kids), so nobody minded this union. The couple's ages might not be totally in sync, but I don't really mind it. Tefnut is a secondborn daughter, so she's slightly younger than Damu, who is an only child.

~*~

The newlyweds conceived a baby during their wedding night. He will have a long life and will only die as an elder.

Mutneferet, Tefnut's sister-in-law, came over to see her and they spent some time together, talking about their experiences as young (or expecting) mothers.

Tefnut gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Ninildu, who is going to be the Orange family's heir. Unfortunately, she had a very difficult birth and passed away on the following day... Ninildu is a green-eyed redhead. It seems like he got these genetics from his grandmother Dufa. I was hoping for a darker skintone, but sadly, I think the baby has skin 1.

~*~

I also loaded all my households and sold all fish they had (I still didn't sell the harvestables though). Here is the 'ranking' of the families so far:

Bruni 115.000$

Tia 109.000$

Imago 93.000$

Orange 57.000$ note: I did play this family a bit longer, since I wanted Tefnut to give birth, but that's fine, I'll just play them for a shorter time next round

Wolfen 38.000$

You can see my family tracker here.

I decided to give them free 'caves' and change their lots a bit for the winter. They're going to rely on hunting spears and Sun&Moon Ice Fishing for the following season(s?).

[casitafallz]

LTRL AU | Birthday repairs

Agustín didn’t linger too far at the table and easily followed up to his wife’s back, his hand coming to catch her hips.

“Mi Vida…”

“You were right.” Julieta hissed, “Stupid idea…”

Agustín inhaled deeply but shook his head, gently tugging her weight back into his chest. “It wasn’t a stupid idea, My Vida. Just…the wrong person.”

It had been a long discussion the last few days on what sort of party they were doing and in all honestly, Agustín hadn’t liked the argument he had gotten into with Julieta last night; he had stepped by to keep the peace. He had wanted to throw a small party, the family, his parents and sister, maybe his Sobrina as well from his sister’s side. Isabela had barely interacted with her younger cousin and Tia that… he thought she might benefit from opening up to the other’s of their family.

Abuela had stepped in and pressed for something even smaller; to keep the celebration private to avoid any incidents that could arise and had reasoned that Julieta’s health would benefit for something more mundane. He had caved, in most part Julieta had been getting bad headaches the last few weeks and…he didn’t want to keep adding stress onto her shoulders. It wasn’t work stress—not anymore— that much he knew but she was a worrier by nature and probably the build up to this day had been the cause.

“We shouldn’t have put off the birthday talks.” Julieta grumbled, “we…we might have had more time to get….decorations.” She inhaled shallowly, her eyes prickling with tears. Agustín’s hands moved to rub soft circles into her back. “I feel terrible.”

“Juli, we made a mistake. It happens.” Relief settled as she turned and hugged herself into his chest,  arms snaking around his waist. “We just…need to apologize.” At the very least here because… well he should have seen a bad reaction the moment he saw her look around… and he should have wished her a happy birthday this morning but both he and Julieta were still recovering a little from last night. He thought the others would at least, he certainly heard Mirabel. “and we need to make it up to her.”

Julieta’s breath wavered a little but her bun bobbed as she nodded. “I know.”

“what do we do now?” Mirabel’s voice echoed behind them.

Agustín jumped a little, Julieta stiffened in his arms before stepping back but kept a hand resting on his arm, unwilling to let go. Julieta looked a little lost for words, uncertain.

“Let Isa have a minute,” Agustín gave his daughter a soft look, even as Mirabel pouted a little. “I’ll go talk to her first.”

“Okay, Papa.” Mirabel moved forwards abruptly and sunk into Julieta’s arms to comfort her mother.

Agustín patted her shoulder softly though he turned his gaze to his mother-in-law who had remained seated with a perplexed expression, her meal untouched as most now aside from Camilo who had no issues eating through such an uproar that even Antonio was giving him a confused look. Bruno still ate but with more awareness and care to not chew too loudly.

“Don’t get upset at Isabela,” he requested directly to her, “We are at fault for this.”

Abuela’s head rose, lips pursing a fraction. “There is little way to salvage such an incident, Agustín. Let’s eat and clear up. We can talk to Isabela tomorrow on this.”

“No.”

Abuela took at him sharply.

Camilo’s crunch loudly echoed in the dining room, earning the kid a soft budge from his father but Agustín wasn’t for back out because of an audience.

“The meal may be ruined but the evening is not. It’s only six-thirty after all.” He intended to do more than just let Isa drown in her upset when they needed to address this. “You don’t have to be down here, but it’d be nice to try and salvage what we can. Isabela thinks she still being punished, I don’t intend to validate that.” He straightened up. “Pepa, Felix, I think it’d be best if—“

“Don’t worry, I think it’ll be easier with fewer people.” Felix waved off casually, his hand coming to his wife who begrudgingly nodded. “I do want to give her my gift personally, however.”

“I’ll talk to her.” Agustín promised.

Taking their plates, or what was left, the yellow family opted to finish their meal to the privacy of their rooms, or Antonio’s room is the 5-year-old’s suggestion had any weight. A flash of red showed Dolores hurrying with them as well.

Which left Abuela and Bruno at the table with Luisa looking like she was stuck in the middle, fiddling with her cutlery.

“Mama, let’s take a walk first.” Mirabel encouraged behind him but, a loud knocking against Casita’s door pulled any attempts to digress.

“Casita,” Abuela rose to her feet at that before leading the way out to the door, Agustín followed though he already had a hunch on who it was long before they got to the door that swung open with some level of hesitancy from Casita and both his parents came in, blissfully unaware.

It was no secret that he had inherited both his style and looks from his parents and even to their greying years, they hadn’t tried to keep to Encanto’s fashion and he did enjoy the unique look they had. It showed their family profession quite well.

His father was suited into a bottle-green suit with a complementary brown coat, his grey-almost white hair slicked back and had a familiar warmth in the lines of his face. His mother’s features were much sharper but with softer brown eyes; her grey hair was up into a typical bun and in her hands was a large, wrapped gift with ‘Isabela’ written onto its tag.

“Abuelita!” Mirabel darted forwards and immediately hugged her.

“Ay, Mirabel.” His mother smiled, her arm juggling the gift to free one up, and gently hugged Mirabel back. “I’m glad to see you… and that you’re hugging again.”

Mirabel pulled back, lips wavering for a moment but nodded softly, “I’m getting there.”

Her mother didn’t press much more than to a simple nod of acknowledgment and touched Mirabel’s cheek affectionately before dumping the gift for Isa into her husband’s arms. “Luisa, come hug your Abuelita…”

Luisa rose without a second of doubt and easily pulled her grandparents into a hug with a more relaxed smile, her tall frame easily towering over the two as she straightened up nerviously.

“Mijo,” Abuelita wandered away from Luisa, her eyes touching over Abuela and Bruno though her eyes became much more fixed as she realised who was missing. He could already feel the unease in his gut now because… she was not going to be happy. “Where’s the birthday girl?” Her tone was calm and warm and laced with a casual question but he internally winced like there was a threat to her words.

His mother was sharp and clearly, she was reading the entire room in the space of three seconds to know something was wrong. He knew better than to lie to her- late sixties or not, she was intimidating.

“She’s… in her room, Mama.” Agustín admitted though he gave her his best assuring look, “Dinner’s gone a bit sidewards. I was about to go up to her.”

His mother’s smile vanished though it was uncanny of how the look of displeasure was something she and Isabela had shared.

“It’s a minor miscommunication,” Abuela spoke up, “nothing that can’t be taken care of but…perhaps you should return tomorrow when Isabela’s in a better mood.”

“No, I came to see my eldest granddaughter and give her her present, which will not change.” Abuelita’s polite answer though she turned her attention to Mirabel, “Mira, what happened?”

Mirabel flushed a little, “Well… there was a suggestion of doing a little surprise party and….Isa may have thought that the family forgot about her birthday and—“ Mira stopped as Abuelita raised her hand.

“I see.” She inhaled deeply though her gaze became stern, “Agustín, Julieta, would you mind if I spoke to Isabela first?”

Agustín felt his wife’s hand snake into his, her eyes baring unto his uncertainly but nodded after a moment. “I’ll get you something to drink.”

“Here, I brought this from home.” From his coat, he pulled out a large bottle of wine and Julieta led him towards the kitchen, their voiced quiet and carrying but Agustín was glad that his father was probably the best to distract Julieta.

“Why don’t you two go and set up a comfy spot by the corner,” Agustín suggested to both his remaining daughters. “Bring the cake and presents and make it look pretty, okay?”

“Okay, Papa.”

-

Vera was quietly fuming by the time she reached Isabela’s door, momentarily taken aback by the change of her door’s entire placement and the little hallway steps up that hadn’t been there before. It ruffled her feathers, so to speak. Vera did know it had been a good few months since she had been down here… since Mirabel’s Quinceañera at least and Isa’s door hadn’t been like this… something was wrong.

Her knuckles thumped lightly across the glowing, wooden door before silence echoed, no reply or inclination of permission to enter.

“Can I go in?” She felt odd to talk to the house but the tiles by her feet shifted in a way she hoped was a yes before she touched the handle and poked her head in. Inside, she had expected to see the fields of pink but she felt her jaw drop at such a new room and color.

A huge tree was what pulled her attention first, massive and looming above it all and…stunning if that was one of her granddaughter’s creations. Clearly, there had been a lot she was unaware of… why hadn’t Agustín had told her this when they had last spoken?

Carefully treading, Vera felt so small in such a jungle of colors and plants. A pitcher plant with bird feathers sticking out its bowl had her step a little quicker. Cavernous plants, trees, brightly colors pods….was that an herb farm? Were all those her creations too?

Against the canvas of colour, her eyes caught sight of Isabela sitting in a ball beside a tall, slim waterfall that thundered a cool mist across the large space and surrounded by a multitude of random flowers and plants; all sharp and prickly which…felt symbolic at the least.

“Nieta?” her voice carried as she settled the gift to her feet.

Isabela stiffened a little more but turned to face her swiftly, her hair like a curtain and seemed to hide her face away

“Abuelita?” Her voice was so soft and surprised.

Vera sighed softly though happily moved forward a few steps as Isabela struggled to her feet and sunk into her held out arms, her body shaking with soft sobs. “It’s okay,” She rubbed her back, “You’re okay.”

It took a few minutes and slowly getting to the bench a few meters away before she felt Isabela relax a little, staying leaned into her side like a child.

“Can you tell me what happened?” Vera encouraged, hoping to get her side of the story out as well.

Isabela sniffled, her eyes looking straight to her lap. “I…I knew I wasn’t…going to get a big party like-like last year.” She took a shallow breath, “But…. they didn’t even bother with decorations!”

It sounded like a very small thing and not something to throw a fit about but Vera was a big-picture woman. Isa had clearly drawn a comparison between her last birthday to this. She did recall Mirabel telling her they had a surprise planned, she could see why Isabela would be so much more affected.

“Ay, that’s something I agree with. They should have had decorations and they certainly should have made it look so much more important. You’re only twenty-two once.” Vera rubbed her back, “Anything else?”

“No one wished me a happy birthday this morning. Only Mirabel… and she gave me this as well.” Her hand patted the damp blue shirt she wore. “Mama only just told be before dinner but…it felt cheap…why wait all day to tell me?”

It was stunning, Vera noted and she could see it was certainly a work of art. Mirabel had come to her shop once for some help but that was before things had been added. The fact the girl gave Isabela that showed that she had forgiven her for sure for what she had done.

Vera was not the one to condone violence and she had offered to take either Mirabel or Isa in after it had happened but Agustín had assured them has it handled. She didn’t know the full story but she was glad there had been punishment given and that Isabela was mature to take it with a high head.

But, she could now plainly see why Isabela would be so upset. No inclination of a surprise on top of no well-wishes of a special day… it must have built throughout the day for her to react like this. It felt a little familiar.

“Happy birthday, niñita” Vera brushed some of her hair back behind her ear. “I’m sorry that happened. I think…they were planning on surprising you after dinner so they were probably trying to save it.”

Isabela scoffed, wiping her eyes on her wrist, “I don’t care for surprises, Abuelita. It…doesn’t feel like that they wanted to put the effort in for me. It…it was my special day today” Isabela looked so deflated, her eyes welling up.

“Ay, it is your special day for sure… and in all honesty, I thought your Papi knew better than to go for a surprise party.”

“What do you mean?”

Vera hummed softly for a moment; a story Agustín must not have told her. “When your Tia Sofia was turning 14 when we thought of doing a surprise party. Doing everything in secret, hiding the decorating, even the ones we ordered….” She trailed off, “Agustín accidentally set a fire and destroyed the decorations so we had to put in a late order again on the day…”

She could feel Isa’s curious gaze now. “Wh-what happened?”

“Well, your Tia was on some medication when she was a child to help with some pain, your mother was unavailable at the time but… it wasn’t brewed correctly. That’s my mistake there. We were so frantic on the day, she left early to see her school friends but… the medication also made her paranoid.”

Isa’s lip twitched.

“So, she did come home early and nearly caught us putting stuff up but, your Abuelito was picking up the new order at the time while I had a neighbor help around at the same time. As soon as I heard her, I had the neighbor grab the boxes and shoved him into the nearest room…which just happened to be my bedroom.”

“What?”

“Yes, I know.” Vera smiled, shaking her head. “So, the evening comes around when we have Agustín bring her home—I had her go to play with her friends—but I didn’t know that…she had peeked into my room through the outside shutters and saw the neighbor when she had left, not the decorations and had…assumed I was having an affair on her birthday.”

Isa’s jaw dropped a little. “What?!”

“It gets worse…”

“How?”

“Because when she came in, we all shouted ‘surprise’ and she burst into tears…. She had thought the party was me announcing to her that I was leaving her father for the neighbour. She had built an entire narrative in her head throughout the day on what could have happened; all the hush-hush, the secret talks me and the adults had…” Vera shook her head, “she thought that the party wasn’t about her special day and more about a divorce.”

Isabela gaped at for a moment, but now had entirely relaxed like Vera had hoped the story would do “Is…is that why we’ve never had that sort of party before?”

“Si, and one of the reasons I would have thought your Padre would have been against it. It’s the worse day for misunderstandings.”

Isabela looked down, “This wasn’t a misunderstanding.”

“Perhaps it’s more of a…lack of communication. I’ve heard things haven’t been easy for you and it’s….easy to think the worst. You do have presents and a lovely cake waiting for you, if you’d like to come down?”

Isabela shook her head. “No… no dinner’s ruined.”

“But not this evening,” Vera tried, “Why don’t you come down with me? Come and see your Abuelito? He’d love to watch you open your gift.” Which she had now realized was on the grass, the paper getting soaked with waterfall mist.

“Go down? After what happened?” Isa’s voice wavered, “I… I can’t face them.”

“Why not?”

Isabela shook her head. “I ruined dinner…it’ll be too awkward. They’ll want apologies and—“

“Well, they’ll have to apologize first, niñita” Vera hoped Dolores would pass that along, “You’re allowed to be upset for them not giving you happy birthdays or decorations. I don’t know who insisted on a surprise but…lets not waste this evening when it’s young. You deserve a good evening so why not try?”

Isa’s face still looked conflicted but Vera gave her hand a soft squeeze.        

“If it’s still too much, then you can come back. I won’t stop you.” Vera reasoned

Isabela exhaled but thankfully nodded, “Okay, Abuelita.”

Isabela knew her Abuelita was trying and she was glad it was her. Someone not…so into this whole mess to judge her on why she was here. Like her Papa, she knew she was far paient; at least she knew where he had gotten it from.

Together, they walked from her room, Abuelita grabbing her present on the way out though thankfully began to talk.

“So, what presents did you receive?”

“One of my friends gave me some…bookmarks,” Isabela spoke softly, glad to focus on that. “My other friend, Fran; she actually set up lessons for me in town.”

“Oh?”

“Well… I finished a project with her and… well I had nothing else happening. Fran thought it could be useful for me to learn other things. Pottery sounds good; I have a lot of plants that’ll need pots… but…I’m curious about…textiles.” Isabela watched as her Abuelieta looked at her in delighted surprise.

“Textiles? Like sewing?”

“No, now…sewing.” Isabela winced, “I don’t have skill in that regard.”

“Pray tell.”

“Making threads and material, that sort of thing.” Isa knew it sounded very out of context but…she wasn’t quite ready to admit she could make cotton or fabric plants… not yet. Only Fran and Mateo really knew and… well Dolores by her gift but she hadn’t really approached Dolores and didn’t plan to.

“Ah,” Abuelita nodded. “It’s a laborious art, Isabela. Me and your Abuelito only tend to work with the finished sheets. I hope you’re…prepared to endure the long tasks it brings.”

Isabela shrugged, “Well, I suppose I’ll either learn or drop it but either way, I’ve tried it out.” It would be far easier to at least learn how to spindle, at the least, even if she never got further than that because at least then things were half-processed.

Abuelita smiled at her, though still keeping an eye as they reached the bottom of the balcony steps, “I suppose that is all that should matter.”

Isabela smiled softly though she could see the back of Luisa seated in at the other end of the courtyard which made her uneasy that…now she was out of her room. Out to see her family and… whatever they had pitifully pulled together to make this…work.

“Come,” Abuelita encouraged her onwards, and begrudgingly, Isabela forced herself forwards and tried to ignore the increasing beat against her ribs.

“Ah, Isabela.” Abuelito was the first to swoop in, drawing the rest of the family’s attention to her but Isa strictly focused as Abuelito pulled her into a hug, noting the distant smell of tobacco on his suit before she patted his back, allowing her to be released. “I’m happy you’ve come down, you look stunning. You always did look good in blue.”

“Thank you, Abuelito.” Isabela straightened out the creases that had formed in her new shirt, internally wincing because she knew she had probably splodged her tears into it. “Mirabel did a wonderful job.”

“Si, Si.” She kept her gaze down a little as she felt the eyes on her, though she could see the…cake her mother had made now. Two tiers, a light blue, base that was decorated with shaped and crafted sugar flower petals of lilacs, blues, and pinks as if it was a bouquet. Icing complimented and eased the flow and décor. It was beautiful and she appreciated the work her mother put in to create such art.

But… on top of the day, it felt like it lacked…heart. Isa could reason she had perhaps her mother had worked all day onto it which did spring from warmth back into her chest but the doubt remained like it’s shadowed companion.

“Mija…” Julieta appeared next, her face melded in concern and…somewhat apologetic, though Isa couldn’t help but notice the slight dark circles under her eyes as her mother reached for her arm. Mama was tired…. Guilt wiggled a little in her gut but she lightly smiled back, not genuine but enough she hoped to appease her mother.

It did, if a little. “Lo siento, Isa” Her mother spoke. “This…day should have been better for you and… we want to make it up to you.”

“You don’t have to,” Isa replied because she didn’t want that; all she had wanted was a birthday, something proper. Not something to make up for their lack of consideration on an important day; it made the action feel… guilt-riddled. They weren’t necessarily doing it for her and for the most part, to make themselves feel better for this. She didn’t want to hold it against them… but she didn’t feel the enjoyment as she should have.

She wanted something real.

“How about we cut the cake?” Abuelita suggested, guiding them both to the spare seats. Isa kept her posture relaxed as her papa pulled out a knife.

“Where are the others?”  Isa asked; it hadn’t escaped her notice her Tia, Tio and cousins weren’t a part of this… her Abuela for that matter. Tio Bruno though, she could see the edge of his ruana from a hammock, rats running up and down the string and disappearing to snuggle or play against him.

“They’ll come by later. Tio Felix wants to give you his gift a little later personally.” Luisa spoke next, fiddling a little. “Happy birthday.” She added a little awkwardly.

Isabela nodded, her shoulders relaxing. Leaning into her mother’s side a little as she lent forwards and took the knife from her father’s hand, gently cutting through the first layer and then handing it off for him to continue himself. Soon enough the cake was shared but the slight reservation in the air didn’t break until Abuelita shoved a particular covered piece of cake straight into Abuelito’s face than his mouth.

A moment’s silence lisps before Mirabel began to snigger. Luisa’s lip twitched a little though isa couldn’t help but fall into giggles as Abuelito shoved his straight back, coating the front of his wife’s shirt in blue frosting and icing as if they were teenagers.

Their antics did calm before anything could be thrown and Isa was sure it could have easily gone that way if Camilo or Antonio had been a part of it. Isa held back on her tia and Tio’s present when they had gotten to unwrapping, the air now feeling far more pleasant to move on.

“Present time!” Mirabel hopped up excitedly and took the lead on the wrapped boxes, her enthusiasm making Isa smile as she began to unwrap them.

From Luisa, she had simply gotten new gardening tools, nothing from Camilo unless you counted the single, terracotta pot that clearly had been a last-second buy—probably for his sake than hers— and from her parents, she had received a new set of shirt and a skirt; much thicker material which meant it was sturdy.  Dolores had given her a knitting set, which felt odd but she opted not to question it.

But what was the prize of her gifts was what her Abuelita and Abuelo had made.

A leather bag. Was big, large enough for her to store gardening tools, books, and had a lot of pockets, probably good for holding seeds. Its décor was tanned-brown, but was beautifully made with meticulous designs of flowers and herbs and had a beautiful brass latch. She could even smell the leather polish.

“Woah.” Agustín lent forwards, “Mama, that’s stunning.”

Isa touched along the designs, her eyes welling up happily before she jumped up and threw her arms around her. “Thank you! It’s so beautiful!”

Abuelita’s chest rumbled, her chuckles soft in her ear. “Ay, you’re welcome, little one.”

“I almost don’t want to put anything in it! I’d hate to ruin it by accident.”

“Ay, you worry too much.” Abuelito chuckled, his hips curling into his mustache. “Like I said to your father, our home is always open.”

Isa’s head cocked to the side, her eyes turning to Agustín curiously. What did that mean?

[yukiko-otomiya]

Jumping Bunny: Mori

My One Piece Self insert introduction!

Introduction

Mori was just a normal girl traveling and living adventures, as far as traveling as a stowaway in ships and fighting alone in Grand Line can be. In one of the rare occasions that she was traveling alone in a boat was rescued by the Strawhat crew from drowning. She saw in the newspaper about Ace's execution and knowing it was Luffy's big bro, she went to help.

But she ended up showing up late and help Trafalgar Law to treat and operate Luffy and Jinbe.

While in the Amazon island, a newspaper came with her first bounty. She started to fear about how the hell she was going to pass over Mariejoa with a price over her head when Trafalgar offer her a spot in his crew.

Now she travel in the Polar Tang while fighting to improve the health of her capitain while helping with research.

Appearance

She has a pale white hair with a bit of a pink subtone. Her eyes a pinkish red. With 1'65cm, loves to wear heels because doesn't like to be smaller than her opponents. Loves to show skin and dress up.

She has two piercing in each ear, wearing a set of heart shaped earing and on the outer holes a black an golden basic ones (the golden was stolen from Trafalgar in Dressrosa).

Has tatooed the band jolly rogger right under her boob, on top where the heart is supposed to be.

Personality

She always has a smile on her face till the act is over. "First tick yourself, and then you'll trick everyone else". Once surrounded with people she trust and on private her range of emotions bloom. Isn't afraid to get her hands dirty for a mission.

Even tho she describes herself as a selfist girl, she is most of the time helping aroud the Polar Tang. But says no if it's too much for her plate.

She is a lovebird and isn't afraid to show it and cry for it. Loves to party with her crewmates and sleep around.

Abilities

-Doctor and pharmacologist: Since young, she lived with her master, an expirate doctor and old acquiteance of her mother, traveling around all South Blue offering affordable treatments. She knows medicine, operation assistance and her best subject pharmacology.

-Haki: she can use Observation Haki and Armament Haki. Her observation haki is pretty strong, she can't see the future but can feel it (she calls it "intuition", others can call it "spidersense"). The armament haki was teached to her by her master as He wanted her to be safe. Can infuse Haki into bullets and mostly uses there and onto her punches and jumps.

-Gunner: Using her observation haki she can aim with almost no chance of missing the target.

-Punch: Her fight style combines punches with tons of bullets and quick dogges with her jumps and sprints. Since she wants no chance of losing, she loves to throw traps or hide knifes.

-Jump: She can jump high and strong. Can't kick as strong as her jumps but it can still hurt.

Trivia

Even tho she aims just with her right eye open, this eye is prosthetic. She actualy uses her haki to aim.

Her name comes from "Memento mori" and it was given to her by her master.

Her first bounty was given to her because she fell on top and K.O. a Vice Almiral in Paramount War.

She can sew and love to make outfits and costumes. That's why she fought for the right to wear whatever on land while she is not on duty.

Shares birthday with Bepo .

Because of that, Bepo started to think that she is her sister (in some way). Mori loves this and uses to cuddle him a lot and make Trafalgar jealous.

Bepo bought her a hair tie with bunny ears to commemorate that.

Her party partner are obviusly Sachi and Penguin.

Shares bedroom with Ikkaku and have girls night everytime they don't have morning duties.

[thequeenofthedisneyverse]

Opposites attract au(movie version) - Felix's family

As we all know, Abuela Anini and Abuelo Felix the first

75 years old

Anini is the sweetest and funniest woman you could ever meet.

Her jokes can make you laugh long and hard for a long time, just ask her family.

She's the kind of woman that's easy to talk to and she's really great with advice.

Ani loves to paint and make jewelry, she's the number 1 goldsmith in her side of town. Don't be fooled by her age she can make rings, tiaras, bracelets, and crowns in one week. 2 weeks if the deadline is far away.

Her painting skills are amazing and she's willing to teach you some of her skills if asked.

She deeply despises Alma and if she ever sees her it's going to be a WWE match. She knows self-defense so Alma will be fighting for her life...literally.

Ani can also play the guitar and the harp, the only ones who know this is her family. Dolores showed interest in the harp and guitar so she taught her how to play them.

She can make the best pan dulce in the world, or to her family at least. Others can agree though, she owns her very own bakery and one of the top-selling things is her pan dulce. It will make you smile with just one bite.

75 years old

Abuelo Felix(or Abuelo Feli) is the kindest and happiest man you could ever meet.

You can tell where Felix got his looks from.

He can tell when someone is upset and he will try to make them happy the best he can.

Feli loves to play the Tuba and he usually helps the town's band for festivals and such.

He owns a dance studio and helps people of all ages learn how to groove.

Did I mention this man loves parties? yeah, he loves parties. He mostly helps with planning holidays, birthdays, quinceaneras, quinceaneros, etc. He just loves planning special occasions and family get-to-together in general.

Feli doesn't have any respect for Alma, he would have never thought she would put so much pressure on her children AND grandchildren. Knowing that kind of makes Feli feels bad for Alma's children and grandchildren.

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Felix's Brother Maceo, sister-in-law Sophia, and their children Bijou, Chantale, and Jaun

43 years old(bottom man on the right)

Maceo is just the same as the rest of his family Happy, kind, & funny. But he's a little more on the shyer side.

He took up goldsmithing like his mama and works at her bakery as well.

Maceo can see when something wrong with someone and he knew there was something up with the madrigal family from the start.

He agreed to keep the madrigal name far away from the Arcoíris mouth as long as Bruno never mentioned it.

Maceo is the type of guy who hangs in the corner at parties, he can dance extremely well it's just that parties aren't his thing. He also tends to have sensory overload so there's only so much the guy can take.

When he learned Dolores had sensory issues due to her gift, he made her special earmuffs to help her through.

His favorite activity is sewing and making up new clothing designs.

Fun fact, he made Dolores's, Camilo's, Bijou's, and Chantale's quinceanera dresses.

45 years old

Sophia is a very sweet but strict woman.

She mostly keeps to herself but will come out for pleasantries if she wants to.

Her tough aura makes people unsure of her and it's very hard to make her smile.

She's the author of many books in the category of romance, horror, mystery, and fantasy.

she cannot cook to save her life and she's thankful for her husband Maceo.

She knows every survival tactic known to man "just in case".

Very good at archery and knife throwing.

Sophia knows about the madrigals but she has a hard time believing in magical gifts.

She's a realist if you can't tell

14 years old

Chantale is much like her parents except she doesn't have the stoic look and tough aura like her mother.

She's very sweet and quiet, and she prefers reading and science more than outdoor activities.

Chanti speaks her mind pretty often and doesn't have many friends because of it.

She loves engineering and hopes to make many aircraft and transportation machines when she gets older.

Chanti is what you would call the steampunk girl. She has many gadgets and gizmos in her room & in the house that serve some sort of purpose.

All the steam she uses for her inventions is made from plants, globing warming was a thing in the 1950s and she hated it.

Chanti also loves insects, she shares this love with her primo Antonio who loves animals.

whenever there's a new animal book she brings it back home to share it with Tonito.

Chanti knows nothing of the madrigals but she is curious as to why Bruno never talks about his family.

12 years old

Bijou is the 2nd "goth" of the family. She's dark and broody and she will punch you.

All she reads is dark fantasy and won't miss a chance to scare her younger cousins and little brother with monster stories. Sophia had to remove all dark fantasy from her home because of it but Jou still finds a way to read it.

She's also the trickster of the family and won't pass up pranking her family with Camilo.

Her standoffish and tough aura makes people scared of her and she loves it.

In reality, she's just as kind and sweet as her family but not even god himself will get that out of her.

Her kindness is rare, she will only help someone if they most certainly need help.

She doesn't know about the madrigals and quite frankly she doesn't care to know about Bruno's family. It doesn't even cross her mind.

She and Bruno don't talk much, it's not her fault though, her colors remind Bruno of Alma so he tries to dodge her any way he can.

When she gets older she wants to be a special FX makeup artist and an actress.

5 years old

Juan is a confident and outgoing boy.

He loves dinosaurs and will tell you about every single kind there is.

Juan sees his younger cousins as siblings because they are so close in age

He's scared of his sister Bijou and his older cousin Bruno Jr "their creepy and scary" he says.

He's very truthful like his older sister, but unlike her, he's a little cuter about it.

He likes to paint, and his room is filled with paper, crayons, acrylics, colored pencils, etc.

He's also currently learning how to play the guitar like his prima, he's being taught it by his Abuela of course.

Juan is a momma's boy, that's all.

that's all for now, if you have any questions my asks are open.