#but your sweet boy did have some choice moments this year and we have to respect that

[theemporium]

watching xmas movies with jack

a lil dad!jack for you!! thank you for requesting!🫶🏽

.

“Okay, bud, we have some tough decisions to make. You ready?” 

The young boy in front of him nodded, a small crease forming between his brows like he was preparing himself for a faceoff. 

“Grinch or Home Alone?” 

James looked up at his father, contemplating his options for a few moments before letting out a deep breath. “Home Alone.”

“Great choice,” Jack grinned, his chest tightening when his son returned the same smile back before he turned back towards the TV to put the movie on.

If you had asked Jack when he first joined the league—or even a few years ago—he would have insisted that whilst he enjoyed the little break for Christmas, he missed hockey more. December was usually around the time everyone started getting into the flow, the team was starting to connect more so than not and you would get a good idea at which teams would be making it to the playoff run and which teams wouldn’t stand a chance. 

He would be buzzing in his skin, ready to keep playing some good hockey. It was all Jack had ever really known, from being a hockey nerd as a kid to playing in the league himself.

Things changed when James was born. 

There was more to the holiday break. Jack began to appreciate the days he was able to spend with his son, the days he didn’t have to worry about games or road trips or anything else. Just days where it’s him and his family and nothing else. 

It was barely ten in the morning by the time the blanket fort had been made in the living room, neither Jack nor James out of their pyjamas as they settled on the first movie of the day. 

“Wait, we can’t!” James insisted, tugging on his pyjama trousers when his father moved to press play. “We need to wait for Mama.”

“She’s coming,” Jack reassured his son, smiling down at the way he had pressed his face against Jack’s thigh. He ran his fingers through his son’s hair, softly tugging on the small knots in his curls. “She’s getting some snacks for us.”

Big eyes stared up at him, all hopeful and sweet. “Pretzels?” 

“Chocolate pretzels,” Jack replied, grinning at the way his son’s face lit up.

“So, which movie did we choose?”

Both boys turned to look at you as you walked in—also still dressed in your pyjamas—holding two large bowls.

“Home Alone,” they both replied at once.

You let out a small laugh. “I should have known.”

“I saved you a seat, Mama!” James called out, patting the spot next to him in the fort.

“Thank you, Jamie,” you grinned.

Jack mockingly pouted. “What about me?” 

“You sit here,” James replied, patting the other spot beside him before he gave his parents a bashful smile. “I wanna be in the middle.”

“Of course, bud,” Jack nodded, crawling into the blanket fort as he happily took his spot, leaning down to press a kiss to the top of his son’s head. “Ready? We have a lot of movies to get through.” 

James nodded, all sweet and determined again. “We can do it.”

“Of course we can,” Jack grinned. “We are Hugheses, we can do anything.”

.

[ladybirdswritings]

Pretty Thing - Cooper Howard (Ghoul) x Reader

Summary: You're a shiny, pretty prize worth more caps than can be counted on ten hands altogether. There's something special about you, and the Ghoul is determined to figure out just what it is.

Notes: I caved, so here is part 2 <3! Lmk if u love this and I'll write more (feel free to leave me lots of comments and interactions, they motivate me!!)

pt. 1 | A03 | masterlist

pretty thing | 2…

“Please kindly rectify that you did not kidnap this innocent lady and you’re just— borrowing her.”

Their voices were a muffled, incoherent sound. Like ocean waves, rising and falling into pocketed parts of your brain.

“Well sweetie, I could go on n’ lie to you if it helps ya’ sleep better. Then again, I don’t much care how good you sleep.”

The sound of hissing air being breathed in with a moan, and exhaled with a grunt followed those words. The voice was familiar. Sudden, hazy flashes of the Ghoul circling you like a shark reentered your hectic mind. The other voice… it belonged to the doe-eyed brunette.

“Coop, kidnapping is wrong. Besides, what use do we have for another responsibility? What’s left of the NCR would have gladly taken her in as one of their own. Another vault, even, a good one! You’re robbing her of that choice!”

A gruff, deep hum left the Ghoul’s lips.

“Doll, I don’t give a rat’s ass bout’ the NCR. I ain’t no saint, vaultie. Rough economy these days n’ she looks like a useful lil’ thing, don’t she? Besides— she’s in a far better place than the one those underground skillet boys you like to fuck had her holed up in.“

Warmth was encasing your wounded skin, prickling at your senses. It was the most alive you’d felt… the closest you’d been to consciousness in months. Yet, you couldn’t quite pry your gaze apart.

“It’s just wrong…” the brunette whispered after a long moment’s pass.

No matter how wrong it was, well, the Ghoul didn’t much care. He knew well that Lucy would be on her way soon and he couldn’t do much to stop her. Now, he had been a lone wolf for centuries but— there was something about company that made him feel less ghoulish and more— human.

Silently, he liked that.

“You find that tin-lover of yours?” The Ghoul asked, hoping to steer Lucy’s mind away from her moral dilemmas. It worked, because her gaze lit up once more.

“Nope! But I did find some leads. Once we make our way to the city where we were headed, I’ll detour for approximately four days and then if all goes well, I’ll find you again! But with Maximus… doesn’t it sound amazing?”

The city?

“Hm. Guess so. Only thing is, tin-man could be dead by time we get to the city. Now— if I was you, I’d get gone and find him fore’ those roaches start to pick him apart.” There was a mischievous kind of joy at the idea of it, and it was laced proudly in his voice.

Silence again, warmth prickling stronger. Closer.

“But what about you, Coop?”

His laugh was a hoarse, aged and cold sound. As if to say everything his words could not. Lucy understood it immediately. She knew well that the Ghoul could hold his own. He’d done it for 200 and some years, after all. Perhaps she’d grown comfortable working as a team. Perhaps…

But Maximus…

“You’re right. Better to get a head start… what about the girl? She’s high profile. You know those keepers are gonna come right after you and they won’t stop. Us vault-dwellers can be incredibly persistent about the things we are passionate for.”

You couldn’t see it— not while you slumbered, but the Ghoul could only smirk at sweet Lucy’s words. Proud and mangled.

“Oh I know, sweetie. N’ don’t you worry bout’ pretty thing over there. She’s gon’ be well taken care of.”

A threat? A promise? An idea? Perhaps all three— perhaps all at once.

“…right. Look, I grabbed this on my way out. It’s a file— her file. Maybe you’ll figure out what you should do after you read it.”

As if the Ghoul hadn’t figured it out entirely already.

Pretty thing was worth something.

You were worth something. So? He’d do whatever he needed to so to get whatever the fuck made you so special out of you, and he’d drown in caps for it. Enough caps to buy him another century worth of yellow vials. Another century to find his family.

“Mm. Get goin’, MacLean.”

With a nod, she did— bidding farewell to dogmeat and sparing her partner another cautious glance before the sandy dunes engulfed her. Off to the city.

For the second time since you’d met him, you found yourself all alone with the mangled Ghoul. Only, you weren’t strong enough to truly see him just yet…

Pity. Cause he? Well…

He was looking right through you…

🏷️’s @isabellekenway

[yourmomsawh0r3]

Could you do Benedict Bridgerton with wife reader? Promenading through the park with their family and having a picnic. Taking a break to relax from all of Ton's drama. Thanks!! :))

of course!! this was such a sweet storyline to write :)

Picnic

Benedict Bridgerton x Wife reader

The warm, golden sunlight filtered through the canopy of leaves, casting dappled shadows on the verdant grass of Hyde Park. It was a perfect afternoon for a promenade and a picnic, a welcome respite from the endless social whirl of the Ton. Benedict Bridgerton and his wife, Y/N, strolled hand in hand, their children laughing and chasing each other just ahead of them.

Benedict, ever the artist, took in the scene with an appreciative eye. The park was alive with the vibrant colors of summer, the air filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of conversation. It was a day tailor-made for relaxation and family.

“Look, Mama! Look, Papa!” their eldest, a spirited boy of eight named Henry, called out as he pointed to a particularly large oak tree. “Can we climb it?”

Y/N smiled indulgently. “Not too high, Henry. And keep an eye on your sister.”

Six-year-old Charlotte, her auburn curls bouncing as she ran, darted after her brother. “I’ll beat you to the top!”

Benedict chuckled, squeezing Y/N’s hand. “They’ve got your adventurous spirit.”

“And your boundless energy,” Y/N replied, leaning into him. “Thank goodness we’re in the park where they can run off some of it.”

They continued their leisurely stroll, following a winding path that led to a secluded clearing near the Serpentine. A large, checkered blanket was already spread out, laden with a sumptuous picnic prepared by the Bridgerton household staff. It was an inviting sight: cold meats, cheeses, fresh bread, and an array of fruits and pastries, all neatly arranged and waiting to be enjoyed.

As they settled onto the blanket, Y/N helped the children with their plates, making sure everyone had their favorites. Benedict uncorked a bottle of chilled wine, pouring two glasses and handing one to Y/N.

“To a perfect day,” he toasted, his eyes warm and affectionate.

Y/N clinked her glass against his. “To family.”

For a while, they ate and laughed, sharing stories and simply enjoying each other’s company. The children, their initial hunger sated, soon wandered off to explore the nearby bushes and flowers, their delighted giggles echoing through the park.

With the children happily occupied, Y/N and Benedict stretched out on the blanket, reveling in the rare moment of peace. Y/N rested her head on Benedict’s shoulder, her eyes drifting shut as the gentle breeze caressed her face.

“It’s days like this that make all the chaos worth it,” she murmured.

Benedict nodded, his fingers lightly tracing patterns on her arm. “Indeed. Sometimes it feels like the Ton never lets us breathe, but here… here we can just be ourselves.”

They fell into a comfortable silence, watching the clouds drift lazily across the sky. Benedict’s thoughts turned to the recent events in their social circle—the endless gossip, the scandals, the never-ending parade of parties and balls. It was a relief to escape it all, if only for a little while.

As the afternoon wore on, the sun began its slow descent, casting a warm, golden hue over the park. Henry and Charlotte returned from their adventures, their cheeks flushed with excitement and their arms full of wildflowers.

“Look what we found, Mama!” Charlotte exclaimed, thrusting a bouquet of daisies and buttercups into Y/N’s hands.

Y/N beamed, her heart swelling with love for her children. “They’re beautiful, darling. Thank you.”

Henry plopped down beside his father, a mischievous grin on his face. “Papa, can we play a game?”

Benedict ruffled his son’s hair. “What sort of game did you have in mind?”

“Hide and seek!” Henry declared, bouncing with enthusiasm.

“An excellent choice,” Benedict agreed, getting to his feet and stretching. “Very well, who will be ‘it’ first?”

After a lively debate, it was decided that Benedict would be the first seeker. The children scampered off, giggling and hiding behind trees and bushes as he counted aloud. Y/N watched with amusement, her heart full as she observed her husband and children at play.

Eventually, as the shadows grew longer and the air began to cool, they gathered up their things and made their way back home. The children, worn out from their day of fun, walked quietly between their parents, their hands clasped in Benedict’s and Y/N’s.

Back at their townhouse, the children were bathed and tucked into bed, their eyelids drooping with exhaustion. Y/N kissed them goodnight, her heart full of the quiet contentment that came from a day well spent.

Later, as she and Benedict sat together in their private sitting room, a fire crackling in the hearth, Y/N sighed happily. “Today was perfect, Benedict. Exactly what we needed.”

He pulled her close, pressing a kiss to her temple. “I couldn’t agree more. We should make a habit of it, escaping the madness for a little peace.”

Y/N nodded, resting her head against his chest. “As long as we’re together, anywhere can be our sanctuary.”

Benedict smiled, his heart swelling with love and gratitude for the woman in his arms. In the unpredictable whirlwind of their lives, she was his constant, his anchor. And in moments like these, surrounded by the warmth of family and the simple joys of life, he knew they could weather any storm the Ton might throw their way.

As the firelight danced around them, they drifted into a comfortable silence, content in each other’s presence, cherishing the fleeting peace of a perfect day.

[stuckwthem]

in the world of boys, he's a gentleman. | enzo v. (eng version)

summary: after watching you waste your time with other dudes, your best friend has some things to confess to you. pure fluff. a bit of angst.

you never thought riding in a dress on a bike would be such an exciting experience, but there you were, clinging to enzo's body and trying to keep your balance on the back of his bike while laughing like crazy. 

to contextualize it, enzo had been your best friend for some time, ever since enzo had rented a room in your apartment two years, so living together inevitably turned into a genuine friendship. from time to time, your best friend and roommate was also your superhero. whether it was reading your mind when you were starving and didn't want to cook, or always coming home with your favorite sweets, or saving you from ambushes.

when your messages came on enzo's cell phone earlier, complaining about a date that was going from bad to worse with a slightly arrogant guy, he didn't hesitate to get up and hop on his bike to pick you up. the very idea of imagining you on a date with a horrible guy, and worse, a guy who wasn't him, made him nervous, so now you were in this highly unlikely but completely comical situation. he hadn't given you a choice.

"i can't believe i did that," you said, bursting out laughing, which enzo reciprocated by shaking his head. "imagine his face when he comes back to the table!".

"i'm so sorry for him", replies enzo with irony and a smile that indicates that no, he doesn't regret that he stole you from that douchebag.

"i bet you do" leaning your head on the brunet's back, you replied in the same tone. his body is warm and a little sweaty, but his scent is good and familiar.

enzo was riding the bike down the street, while you held on by wrapping your arms around his waist, the night breeze enveloping you. silence fell for a moment before you decided to break it.

"enzo, seriously, you didn't have to do that. it was going to be fine. it was going to last a few more minutes."

he chuckled, shooting you a corner glance. "well, judging by your desperation in the messages, i'd say 'fine' is a pretty generous word."

you snorted, feigning indignation. "i was dramatizing it a bit, you see."

"i know, i know. but honestly, i couldn't let my friend spend a horrible night with some idiot guy. after all, who else is going to put up with my stupid jokes?"

"oh, is that what i'm here for, a mate who'll put up with your jokes?"

enzo smiled, amused. "among other things, sure. but seriously, i wasn't going to let a guy get away with it one more time."

she rolled her eyes as if offended, but couldn't hold back a smile.

"where do you want to go?" she asked suddenly, leaving you a little confused.

"i thought we were going home," you shrugged.

"i can't let you go home so dressed up without having had a decent date!" enzo exclaims, turning his head slightly, allowing you to see his indignant expression.

you process what he just said and feel your heart skip a beat. he was either guessing things or....

"so we're going on a date?" is your automatic retort, and then, trying to disguise, you clear your throat, worried that you're reading the wrong lines.

maybe, in addition to roommate, best friend and occasional superhero, enzo was also a little crush of yours. one that you had tried to forget through terrible dates that always sent you back to square one: enzo. enzo, who bought you your favorite ice cream when you got your ass kicked when you first met, even though you never talked to him directly about your favorite flavor. enzo, who always waited for you at home with a movie session and a warm blanket. enzo, who always listened to everything you said. enzo, who was your weak point.

"if you want to call it that, we'll have a date, yes," he says, and involuntarily your hands tighten around his waist. 

after a few minutes pedaling through the quiet streets, you realize the familiar, everyday route. maybe enzo has changed his mind. you really were on your way home and all your expectations had fallen apart. until, slowly, he stops, and the next thing you know, you're in front of a corner pizzeria. the same new pizzeria that had opened a few days ago near your house and the one you kept telling enzo about.

"pizza?" he asks as if waiting for your approval."

enzo holds out his hand for you to get off the bike and he follows you right away. it's funny how you contrast, while the older guy is wearing casual and simple clothes, you're dressed up in that stupid dress. inside your head, you curse the moment you agreed to go out with that idiot from before. he really didn't deserve all your prep, but enzo, wow. he really seemed to study every part of you and admire every aspect of you. from the most innocent way that some loose strands of your messy bun framed your face to the most indecent way he noticed how beautiful your legs looked in that tight dress. 

the two of you had to sit outside, as it was crowded inside, and when you sat down at the small sidewalk table across from enzo, your best friend let out a long sigh as he stared at you. a sigh that said: finally. 

"but to be honest with you now, you don't know what a relief it was to see you out of that restaurant," you confessed, with a light, hearty laugh.

"was the mood that bad?" the boy asked with an incredulous expression.

"there was just no mood! the guy went on and on about the life lessons he learned when his dad stopped giving him money for a month, or how i shouldn't feel special if he took me to his apartment after dinner. and we had just arrived!" you exclaimed in amazement at enzo, who suddenly looked serious. too serious. "he hasn't asked me a single question in 45 minutes!".

"what an asshole!" the brunet muttered, rolling his eyes. enzo's gaze turned away from you for a moment, following his own hand as he fiddled with the sauces and plucked pieces of napkin off the table. "why do you keep hanging out with guys like that?"

he asked, still not looking at you, and suddenly your blood boiled, rushing to your head. you took a deep breath, feeling a pang of disappointment hit your chest, not believing what enzo had just said. 

"are you implying that it's my fault? i'm responsible for men being totally selfish and..." you close your eyes, involuntarily placing your hand against your own chest. indignantly.

"no! that's not what i meant, my love." enzo lifted his head quickly, meeting your gaze, hurt and betrayed. 

he felt like a complete idiot, desperate at the way you were looking at him, not quite sure how to back down. he stood up straight in his chair, leaning over the table to reach for your hand, ready to defend himself when a waiter stopped right next to him.

"good evening, lovebirds! what can i get you?" the man asked, his tone friendly and cheerful, in contrast to the flaring tempers at the table.

you laughed wryly at the waiter's confusion, a regular occurrence whenever you went out together, and folded your arms, turning away from enzo.

"ahm, hello," he scratched the back of his head in bewilderment, and then realized he hadn't even looked at the menu. he fumbled over the pages, didn't know what to order, and suddenly looked lost.

"two pieces of marguerita, vegan option, please," you said, straightening up. "and a coke, with lemon, for him."

enzo looks at you anxiously as the man takes your order, his leg dangling under the table, brushing against yours unaware. the contact makes your whole body shudder, but you still don't look at him. the waiter leaves the table and announces that he'll serve you shortly.

"look, i'm not saying it's your fault. not at all, chiquita," he says, his voice low and his tone worried. you look at your nails, pretending to be indifferent. a little dramatic. 

enzo sighs and brings his knee to yours. you squint, indifferent, while he moistens his lips as if trying to find the words on the tip of his tongue. 

"i'm trying to tell you that you deserve better than these guys. you know it, i know it." the way he conducts what he says is slow and careful, he continues. "you deserve someone who really appreciates you, who sees all the amazing things i see in you. these dudes you go out with clearly don't see the amazing person in front of them and completely miss the opportunity to meet the best person they could ever have in life."

your eyes automatically rise as you hear what he says, and your lungs don't seem to perform their routine action. your lip trembles nervously. tears gather at the corners of your eyes, because you have to tell yourself that you're only saying that because you want his good, because that's what a best friend would say. and you have to wrestle with all those words before you go to sleep, swallowing all your feelings.

"you know, you're kind, incredibly smart, even if you still think you can beat me playing mortal kombat by pushing all the buttons at once." enzo continues, softening his lecture, making her laugh under her breath. "you're funny, talented, real. cute."

unable to resist any longer, you meet the brunette's gaze again, who gives you a small smile as he notices you slowly give in.

"not to mention your patience, especially when i decide to cook and leave the kitchen as a battlefield." 

this time you can't contain the smile that spreads across your face, remembering the last time enzo had tried to prepare food. really, a denial for cooking. 

"as a cook, you're a great actor," you mutter, which makes enzo chuckle and take advantage of the space you're leaving him.

"and when you have those creative bursts, writing or creating your own recipes. it's fascinating to see your mind in action, and i always wonder how someone can be so.... unique. how you light up wherever you go, how you make things seem so much easier when you're around and...".  

enzo seems to be in the middle of a great discovery. he laughs to himself, shaking his head, as if he regrets having said all that and his eyebrows rise, almost in a gesture of desperation.

"got it," you say, a little sheepishly. your cheeks heat up and you suddenly feel like a teenager.

"anyway, i guess what i'm trying to say is that you're an extremely lovely person." enzo seems to relent, and his body softens in the chair. "and anyone who doesn't see that doesn't deserve to be with you."

his breath comes out as if someone has just punched him in the stomach. your hands run across the table, seeking his, which grasp your fingers gently. you say nothing for a long moment, during which the waiter returns and serves you in complete silence. 

his confession gives the atmosphere another kind of tension. before you could respond, enzo averted his gaze, as if trying to escape the intensity of the situation.

"you know what? forget what i said. let's enjoy dinner and forget i said all that. what am i? shakespeare? don juan?" he joked, trying to lighten the situation by gesticulating exaggeratedly. he takes a sip of his coke, disguising his desperation.

"enzo," his name on your lips comes out as a plea. everything hits you at once. the awareness of his feelings, the awareness of yours. he shakes his head negatively and lets go of your hand.

"it's okay, you don't have to try to comfort me and tell me we're friends, i know. i've accepted it." enzo rushes over, running his hands through his hair, nervous.

"enzo," you tell him, firmer now. "why didn't you tell me before? why didn't you take me on a date before?".

he seems to be choking on his own breath, his nostrils flaring and his chest rising and falling rapidly. enzo looks at you with a mixture of surprise and disbelief. his eyes search yours, as if trying to read your expression and understand if those words were real. how can someone know you so well and not have a fucking clue?

"because i... i didn't know how. it was always easier to be your friend. to stay in the comfort of not risking too much. not to feel the rejection. taking you on a date seemed to cross some invisible line, and i was afraid of messing it all up". 

he hid his face in his hands, laughing to himself. enzo looked on the verge of collapse, frightened. you had never seen him like this. you quickly got up, sitting down in the chair next to him, quietly touching his wrists.

"how stupid you are," you state, laughing. he looks at you with an offended and confused expression. "you really haven't noticed all this time?".

your best friend's face fills with something akin to expectation and dread. expecting the fatal blow at any moment.

"wait, you mean... that you..." he starts to stammer, but you interrupt him with a smile.

"yes, enzo. me too" your confession makes his face light up and then he blushes. was he really 30 years old? because you were making him feel like a kid.

"i never thought..." he murmurs, and you complete the sentence.

"that i could feel the same way? well, now you know. it was obvious." you laugh, moving a little closer to him. "how could i not fall in love with you?".

enzo feels your whisper on his lips, sending shivers down his spine. your warm breath mingles with his, uncertainty hovering between the two of you, unfamiliar territory to traverse. enzo's gaze examines your face, searching for any trace of indecision, but he doesn't find it, and then his eyes drop to your mouth.

"if only you'd let me show you all this sooner," he whispers too, as one of his hands, large and warm, rests on her thigh, under the thin fabric of her dress, and the other rests behind the back of her chair.

"you still have time" 

and with your confession, it's as if he loses control. his pupils, darker and dilated now, are the last thing you see before you feel soft lips against yours. your breath is suddenly cut off and a shock runs through your body, shutting down your entire nervous system for milliseconds. he kisses you eagerly, as if making up for all the other opportunities he'd missed. the hand behind your shoulder moves quickly to the back of your neck and a gasp escapes you. his mouth tastes sweet, like cola and lemon mixed with his own flavor.

enzo can barely contain himself, the rest of the world ceases to exist when your tongue passes over his lips, as if asking for permission, and he almost rolls his eyes at the sensation. god, how he had dreamed of that. he had replayed it in his mind a million times and then blamed himself for it. he shook off the thoughts when he felt your fingers run over his scalp, while your other hand gently stroked his cheek. as if a tornado of emotions wasn't going on inside him at that moment. everything that had happened so far made this moment worth it. 

after almost five minutes, the real world seems to return, as does the need for oxygen, useless, in enzo's perception. the sounds of the street echo in his ears again, everything slowly makes sense again. the world stops spinning as you look at each other with wide, goofy smiles on your faces. you bring your finger to the corner of enzo's lips, carefully wiping away the traces of lipstick. it makes him want to ruin the rest that remains on your beautifully delineated lips.

"so, what do we do now?" you ask, still a little limp, trying not to laugh. the feeling of kissing your best friend, something that had crossed your mind a million times before, seemed far away. in fact, it was something much better than you could have dreamed of.

"i suppose we could start with a first date," enzo suggests, feigning some nonchalance, shaking his shoulders. his fingers wander over your face, brushing aside a few strands of hair over your eyes. it's so sweet and peaceful that you want to treasure just that moment among all the others.

for the rest of the night, you eat that cold pizza like it's the best you've ever eaten. the rest of the dinner goes naturally, lightly, with kisses and sighs, conversations and confessions, like everything you needed. like everything was finally in place. a millennial alignment. it was so easy to be there, next to him, no need for masks or disguises, to be in front of him was to be able to see yourself from the inside out. without hiding anything, without any desire to run away. completely immersed in each other. it was like dreaming half awake. it was just perfect.

there were uncertainties, saved for the distant future, it was terrifying to lose that connection you had. but maybe it wasn't the right way, maybe it was unforeseen and completely chaotic, but it was the best and last first date of your life.

for my girlies who asked me to translate it, i hope you enjoyed <3

[caystar13star]

Update: I wrote it:

Ok I know it was said that originally Jake was supposed to be Iceman’s son. Let’s say he is, along with his twin brother, Tyler. They grew up mostly in Texas because that’s where their Aunt Sarah and Uncle Slider ended up when Ice started climbing the ranks. They decided as a family (Ice/Mav and Sarah/Slider) that the boys would be better off having a stable home. They did spend their summers with their dad and Mav whenever they could, and they would come visit the boys when they were on leave.

They knew Bradley, but weren’t especially close since he was several years older. Tyler was jealous of him because he lived with Ice and Mav after Carole died (he and Jake were offered the choice but Jake didn’t want to leave their school and Tyler didn’t want to leave Jake.)

Anyway, both boys were super excited about going to the Academy and becoming aviators like their dad(s) and uncles. They were popular in school, but while Jake played baseball and football, Tyler rode in the rodeo.

Tyler was good, like potentially going pro good, until he was stepped on by a bull when he was sixteen. It broke the bone in his thigh, leading to him having a rod put in to stabilize it. He woke up from surgery to see Jake passed out in Mav’s lap, and Mav crying as he held Tyler’s hand.

“Pops?” he croaked, squeezing his hand softly. “Where’s Dad?”

Mav wiped his tears and leaned over to kiss Tyler’s forehead. “He’s coming, baby. He had to wrap some stuff up in Hawaii, and I was closer so I got here faster.”

Tyler tried to figure out the look on Mav’s face. It reminded him of when someone would bring up Bradley. He wasn’t sure why he was on the other side of that look.

“Ty, baby, we need to talk,” Mav shuddered and braced himself, not ready to do this again, but he had to be the parent here. “They had to operate on your leg, sweetheart.”

Tyler glanced down, seeing the bulky cast that reached from his ankle almost to his hip. He remembered the blinding pain he felt as the bull came down directly on his thigh. He was pretty sure he’d passed out immediately.

“Okay? Am I going to lose my leg or something?” That would explain the look. Mav didn’t do pity, but he oozed empathy. He took everyone’s pain as his own.

Mav shook his head and grabbed his hand tighter. “No, baby, no! You’ll be just fine,” he assured him. “You have a long recovery ahead, but you should be able to walk and run eventually.”

Tyler sighed in relief, looking down at his twin, noticing the dark circles under Jake’s eyes. He’d been at the rodeo, with a rowdy group of his football teammates. He must have been so worried.

“Ty,” Mav called his attention back. “They had to put a metal rod in your leg. You lost some of the bone and this was the only way to stabilize it.”

Tyler didn’t understand why he sounded so apologetic. Mav must have seen his confusion and he sighed. “Tyler, you won’t be able to fly for the Navy.”

His brain whited out for a moment, like a record scratch. His whole life had been planned as long as he could remember. He and Jake. Together in school and in the sky. They already had their pilots’ licenses as soon as they could get them. They flew their dad’s Cessna regularly just to stay fresh. But the F-18 was the goal.

What was he going to do now?

Also, Tyler has no patience for Bradley’s temper tantrum after this. He didn’t come see him when Tyler was in the hospital, and that irritated Jake too.

After the mission, they’re all reconnected and Bradley and Jake come visit Tyler to introduce him to Phoenix and Bob. Tyler is sweet and welcoming to everyone except Bradley.

Days go by and Jake wakes up one morning to hear Bradley and Tyler yelling at each other on the back porch. He runs down to play interference.

“You don’t understand, Ty! I had a right to be mad!!”

“Oh, no,” Tyler scoffed loudly, “I wouldn’t know anything about having my dreams ripped out from under me and having to completely change my life plans! I wouldn’t understand that at all!”

[fashionteahouse]

If you have time you could write one where embry dates the reader but he is a few years younger than him, but he's so proud to have met a girl like her, maybe someone on the pack makes playful comments about it because he is tough in part but it is as if he was always so soft with her that they come to not know him. maybe they even see a couple of hickeys on him but he looks proud because he is LITERALLY so in love that he kisses the ground where she steps and he loves that they know he has a girl, a little pretentious about it🤭

yes, here you go🙂‍↕️ hope you enjoy :)

high hopes - embry x reader

Snickers were thrown at his way, his sappy, puppy dog eyes. Mouths were covered by some of the boys in the pack by their hand. They watched as Embry held the phone close to his ear, a sickly sweet smile spreading across his lips like wildfire.

“Talk to you later.” he says in a tone of submission. He ends the call and groans and laughs are thrown louder. Embry tucks the phone in his pocket.

Embry’s risk was worth it. The fact that his age didn’t get in the way of finally being with you, was like going to heaven. You were his angel. He even beat out the guys that were your age and older.

“Look at you, man.” Jared says in a teasing tone, shaking his head.

“What?” Embry replies.

“Still have that smile on your face.” Jacob says laughing and pointing.

Embry tried to minimize it but he let go, not caring that he was happily in love. He instead chooses to quietly say, “Shut up.” This only brought more laughs in his direction, proving exactly their point.

He went off and rummaged through his clothes. He couldn't just wear anything. He wanted to dress special. You agreed to let him take you out for dinner. Fixing his collar and staring back at his reflection in the mirror, he was somewhat pleased at his outfit choice. The only thing that he cared for was if you liked it. He had high hopes for this date night with you to be perfect.

He walked through his living room, where his friends were lounging on the sofas and flicking through the television. They caught a glimpse of his outfit and all start cackling once more. Embry rolls his eyes.

"Are you going to a wedding reception or what?" Jacob says while shaking his head.

"You might as well say that. With her, everyday feels like I'm getting married. I made a vow with myself to always look my best for my best girl." he said to them all.

He picked you up and he couldn't stop looking at you. He felt good that he wore what he wore, you gave him a kiss, "You look so good, Embry." You say to him in a sultry voice. His face is bright red, in a smile that almost broke his cheekbones.

Bellies filled with delicious food, you give him your thanks when you invite him inside your home. He wanted to make the moment of your lips peppering him last forever. The peppered kisses turned into open mouth kisses, his hands on your body felt good to you.

"Did she try to spell her name on you?" Quil says as he inspects Embry's neck. You agreed to hang out with him and the pack. Embry holds you tight on his lap in one arm and waves Quil away from him in the other.

"It's the markings of our love that we have for each other. I can feel our love for each other in my soul. You all just don't understand, our connection is woven with passion and cosmic alignment." Embry says to him in all seriousness.

You chuckle as they groan. You thought it was adorable how he was always vocal about how special you were to him.

"Shakespeare rises from the dead." Paul mutters and you lean back more into Embry's chest.

Embry scoffs as he holds you close, "Our love is a masterpiece that will stand the test of time."

More groans erupt but you were happy that he felt this way. You didn't find the pretentious actions annoying. In fact, his pretentiousness let you know that the love he did have for you was at least genuine. It felt real when it came out of his mouth. He gave you high hopes that the love for each other would last forever.

[seenoversundown]

Anthophile

Sam Kiszka x Dahlia (Fem OC)

Warnings: Fluff, Slight insinuation of sexual themes, mostly just cute romantic time.

Word Count: 1.5k

Author's Note: Hehehehe this just felt right for little 'ol Sam :) I actually really enjoyed this OC too (even if it is just a brief meeting)

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

Dahlia POV:

“Can I have a hint?” I ask. 

Sam just glances over at me, his hand already holding my thigh as he drives. Giving it a few squeezes and telling me, “It’s a surprise for a reason!” 

Sam decided that he was going to plan our day for Valentine’s Day this year, which is fine in theory but horrible in practice. He is a die-hard for surprises, so he’s given me not a single hint. 

“We’re almost there anyway,” he says. The wind was blowing his little loose hairs around; the weather was too lovely not to roll the windows down. “Might have to walk a little bit.” He tells me, pulling into a parking lot with a good amount of spaces still open. 

Grabbing my bag and hopping out of the car, he waits for me with his hand out, ready for me. He asks, “Are you excited yet?” 

Nodding quickly, I spit out, “Yes! I need to know what you picked.” 

“I think you’ll like it,” he tells me, tugging me closer to him so he can kiss the side of my head. 

We walk for a few minutes when I notice a little sign on the sidewalk ahead of us. No. There’s no way. 

“Wait,” I hesitate. “..Are we doing a flower arrangement class?” 

Nothing could ever stop him from the smile on his face; he quietly asks, “Am I good or what?” 

“Babe! Oh my god!” I yelp. My arms slide around him, squeezing him for a second, leaning up on my toes, and peppering his face with kisses. “How did you know?” 

“Love, you lay in bed every night watching videos about it,” he laughs. “It was more of a feat that I managed to get us a time slot.” 

I’m practically vibrating with how excited I am, nuzzling my face into him for a second, mumbling, “I love you.” 

Kissing the top of my head, he lets out, “I love you too.” 

🩷 🩷 🩷

It might seem crazy that I’m so excited about a class like this– as a gift, no less. But, when your name is Dahlia, it’s kind of hard not to fall in love with flowers in general. Some may think I’m silly for it, but I feel like I was given a niche to love. 

There are only a handful of people in each class, which is nice because the atmosphere is super relaxed. Not to mention, with all the fresh-cut flowers, it smells incredible. 

We spent a few minutes just listening to the instructor before she had us pick out whatever flowers we wanted. Naturally, I had my eyes set on some Peonies from the moment we walked in, so the second I had the chance, I was almost sprinting over to them. 

I was a little too focused on finding what I wanted that I hadn’t even glanced over at what Sam was choosing, but I made it back to our little table before he did—looking over to see him so carefully making his decisions, with a few already in hand. He looked so precious as he pulled out bigger ones to smell before making his choice. 

We had been together for a while now, but nothing about Sam had ever changed. He’s still the goofy, sweet, gorgeous boy I fell in love with. Despite the fact that he is always joking about something and that we definitely pick on each other more often than not, he is quite literally the most thoughtful man I’ve ever met. Always came home with little gifts for me or even just made sure to grab things that he knew I would want but forgot to ask for when we grocery shop. He knows me better than I know myself some days.

He finally comes back to the table, setting his little collection of flowers down. Before I could really look at everything he grabbed, the instructor started explaining how to arrange them for a simple bouquet. 

“I didn’t realize how strategic this was,” he whispers as we start rearranging our flowers. “No wonder bouquets are always expensive.” 

I chuckle to myself, carefully breaking up a little bundle of baby’s breath. Thoroughly zoning in on what I’m doing, this is as satisfying as it looks in the videos. Though, I don’t think I know a single person who wouldn’t have at least a little fun piecing together a pretty bundle of flowers. Placing them in the middle of the paper, feeling his hand slide over the small of my back. 

“That looks beautiful,” he tells me softly. 

Staring up at him, feeling my heart melt at the look in his eyes, “Thank you.” 

His bouquet was already wrapped up, realizing that I must have really been focused if I didn’t even see what he did. Before I can turn it to see, he grabs my hand. 

“It’s another surprise,” laughing as he stops me. 

My head falling back, “Babe, this is ridiculous.”

The shit-eating grin on his face was worth it, though. 

🩷 🩷 🩷

Somehow, we made it the entire way home without me being able to see what he picked out. Leave it to Sam to make sure everything today is a surprise. Thankfully he had no excuse to not show me once we got back. 

“Okay, so,” I start, setting my flowers on the counter. “Cough ‘em up, Kiszka.” 

He barks out a laugh at the name, “Okay, okay, fine.” Pulling them out from behind him, he juts his hand out towards me and in the worst British accent I’ve ever heard, “For you, m’lady.” 

Taking them from him, I turn it around to see what he’s picked and let out a small gasp. Two Dahlia are surrounded by a handful of white cosmos and some greenery; one Dahlia is white, while the other is the most vibrant shade of pink. 

“Are you serious?” I quietly let out, looking up at him. The smile on his face and the way his eyes just glanced down at the flowers and back to me. 

“Who would have guessed–” he starts, tilting my chin up to look at him. “That I’d find a girl prettier than the flower she’s named after?” Leaning in and pressing his lips into mine. 

Setting the bouquet on the counter next to mine, my arms slide around his neck, leaning my body into his. His arms wrapped around my waist, lifting me up gently. 

“Do you like them?” he asks.

Carefully moving a few loose strands of hair out of his face, I tell him, “I love them.”

“Good,” he laughs. “I’m a fan of them myself.” Shooting me the most painful wink, pulling a loud laugh out of me. 

After a few minutes, our laughing fit finally died down. I took a second to find some vases to put our little bouquets in. I left mine on the kitchen counter and put the one Sam made on our coffee table. 

He plops down onto the couch as I’m fluffing up the flowers, making them look fuller. His hands grabbed my waist and pulled me back down into his side. It’s almost instinctual for my legs to flop over his at this point. 

“What’s the plan for the rest of the day?” I ask him, snuggling myself closer to him. 

“Well,” his voice is soft. “I figured I would make some dinner for the two of us and then we can just enjoy some cheesy romance movie.” 

I look up at him, “That sounds perfect.”

“Maybe make out a little, I don’t know,” he rambles out quickly. 

Giggling at how he really thought he would just sneak that in—good thing I’m always prepared for something like this. 

“I do have a little surprise for you, too,” I tell him. “It has flowers involved.” 

His eyes light up, “Now we’re talking.”

“I can either go put it on now or wait until after dinner,” I whisper, wiggling my eyebrows at him. 

It was almost like I could see the gears turning in his head before he finally said, “Nobody will know if you just stay in whatever it is… through dinner.” 

“That’s very true,” I mumble, leaning closer to his lips. 

His eyes almost look like they’re sparkling from this angle, leaning in and leaving a slow kiss on my lips. 

“Maybe I can appreciate it twice?” he smirks against me. 

My hand slides up his chest, and in a sultry tone, I tell him, “You can appreciate it as many times as you want, babe.” 

“You should uh.. go change into whatever it is,” he whispers, pulling his bottom lip in with his teeth slightly. His hand squeezes the top of my thigh a couple of times. I lean in, leaving a few pecks on him before I stand up. There was no way I was going to be able to walk past him without a little swat on the ass, making me look back at him.  

The look on his face is devious, and I couldn’t be more excited. 

Masterlist

Taglist:

@gvfsstardust @myleftsock @dont-go-home-without-me @lizzys-sunflower @mackalah

@edgingthedarkness @writingcold @i-love-gvf

@takenbythemadness @earthgrlsreasy @peaceloveunitygvf

@gretavanfan @musicspeaks @jazzyfigz @smoking-jakelane

@demonrat444 @josh-iamyour-mama

@wrldabomination @gvf-luna @chloeshell1219

@sanguinebats @lightmy-love @monkeylaura627 @myownparadise96

@cheersdannyx2 @lallisonl @fleetingjake

[cass1opi4]

dad ash dad ash dad ash 🥰🥰

sleepy boys | ashton irwin

a dad!ashton x reader

no pronouns mentioned, but use of the word ‘mummy’

⊹₊ ˚‧︵‿₊୨୧₊‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹

as much as you loved work, you were unafraid to admit how tiring it could really be - being in a studio for multiple hours a day, multiple days a week, it was exhausting.

today especially, you couldn’t wait to get home and see your boys, you wanted nothing more. it wasn’t often you’d have those days, where you felt so homesick that you couldn’t focus on anything else, but when you did it was awful.

pushing open the door to your home, you were greeted by a tired smile from your husband, who’s head was now turned away from rugrats - a show which he’d always deny enjoying, but secretly you knew he loved.

“hi honey.” he greeted, even his voice showing his sleepy state, he motioned you over with a head tilt, smile still stuck to his face as you complied “how was your day?”

you gave him a gentle kiss before replying “depends.” your answer left him confused, but you were less focused on his confusion and more focused on the adorable state your boys were in.

your son lay on ashtons chest, slow breaths as he stayed sound asleep. ashtons shirt had ended up with a small amount of drool on it, but it was obvious he didnt care. “what’s that mean?”

“it was a good writing day. i got a lot down, recorded like.. three songs. but i missed you so bad i felt sick.” you admitted, watching him pout.

he brought you closer to his chest, you head now placed close to your sons, ashtons arm wrapped around you, his fingers gently rubbing against the skin on your arms “jude and i missed you too.” he pressed a kiss to your forehead, the act always made you feel warm.

“he seems unbothered to me.” you joked with a laugh, pushing the hair out of your babies face, the two year old shifting slightly as you did so.

ashton shook his head “he begged me to let him wait up for you. and baby, you know i cant resist the little pout he gives me - so i caved, told him we could watch cartoons til you came home, but he clocked out about an hour before you come home.”

“ash, you know you’re not meant to let him stay up past 8.” it wasn’t like you were truly bothered, it’s sweet that jude wanted to do that, but 11pm is far too late of a time for a two year old to be going to bed at. “don’t look at me like that, i’m serious.”

ashton looked like a kicked puppy, sad eyebrows and all. “i’m sorry, my love. you know i am. but he was so upset, he said he needed your goodnight kisses. i just felt for him, you know? i get it, i need them too.”

it was impossible to get mad at a man like ashton, he was the most amazing guy you’d ever met, maybe the most amazing guy ever. he could never do any wrong.

“i’m gonna get him to bed, and if you’re not too tired, i could make us some food and you can pick a movie?” he suggested, carefully moving your head off of him and slowly getting up from his seat on the couch.

you picked up the remote, scrolling through netflix til you found your choice of movie, ashton eventually came back to the couch, passing you a bowl of your favourite food.

“thank you, baby.” you smiled, him giving you a kiss, his little way of saying ‘you’re welcome, i know, i know, im amazing’.

you both quickly finished eating, your head then finding its way back on ashtons chest, his arm draped around you as both of your eyes lay trained on the movie.

your brain, however, was not focused on the movie, but instead on ashton’s heartbeat, his breathing and the way his arm felt around you.

you could live in moments like this forever, the world seemed as if it ceased to exist to you when ashton was around - he was your sole focus. he could make an empty room seem so full, you loved that.

“daddy?” a small, croaky voice broke your thoughts, eyes darting to a half-asleep little boy rubbing his eyes as he walked into the living room. “mummy, you’re home!” he grinned, rushing towards you and happily engulfing you in a big hug.

you whispered to ashton with a sigh, “and this is why we don’t let him stay up past his bedtime.” wrapping your arms around jude, “why are you awake, buddy? it’s 2am.”

“just woked up. dunno why.” he frowned, kissing your cheek. “really missed you, mummy.” he pouted, eyes big as he began tearing up.

“oh honey, it’s okay. i’m here now.” your heart broke for him, you were only away twelve hours, you didn’t think it’d hurt your little boy this bad. “let’s get you back to bed, i’ll be here all day tomorrow, okay?”

you picked him up, ashton following you to jude’s bedroom, watching as you tucked the boy up in bed and kissed him on the forehead. “can i have a song?”

ashton sat down on the edge of the toddler bed, you moved to grab the guitar from the corner of the room, passing it to the older boy before sitting down on the comfortable carpet.

the second ashton began strumming, you were mesmerised. it’s what began everything with the two of you, his music, you’d been close friends with luke since high school - and when his band took off, you’d instantly taken notice to the cute drummer with the emo bangs and godly voice.

you didn’t dare make a move until one of your friends basically forced you to, when you and ashton were 18 you sent him a text. one he’d constantly joke about to you, but it really did take all your courage to send it.

you went on a date, stopped talking a week later, and a month down the line ashton called you, claiming he fucked up - telling you he couldn’t get you out of his mind.

ashton finished singing ‘hey jude’ your boy was asleep by the middle of it, but ashton knew you were infatuated by it, so finished the song anyway.

“wow.” you breathed out, quiet as to not wake the sleeping toddler again. ashton simply grinned, gently placing down the guitar and taking your hand, pulling you back to the living room. “you’re so talented, ash.”

“means a lot coming from the most talented person i’ve ever met.” he complimented back, pulling you into a kiss. “i love you.”

you melted, even after all those years he still made you feel butterflies with those words. “i love you.”

⊹₊ ˚‧︵‿₊୨୧₊‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹

not proofread, if ive made a mistake please tell me!!

it’s 4am and i can’t sleep bc my cramps are too bad. but hey, finally finishing the requests that have been rotting in my drafts for a good while. sorry it’s short, i seem to be unable to write long fics :(

[pablitogavii]

Could you write for Gavi taking care of reader after a surgery and like it really hurts

Care

Ofc! I love this idea very much <3

"I can get it!" you tried reaching for the remote on the table feeling immediate pain in the area of your stomach where you still had your fresh post surgery stitches.

"What are you doing!? I got it amor!" Pablo was quick to stop you grabbing the remote and placing it into your lap before sitting besides you hating to see that beautiful face of your scrunched up in pain. Pablo badly wished he could take all that pain away and feel it instead of you...

"It hurts so bad Pablito.." you whined with tears that collected in your eyes slowly falling down your cheeks and he quickly scooped you in his arms carrying you to the bedroom.

You rested comfortably against him while his hands went underneath your pajama shirt to rest of your wound gently while his lips left soft kisses on top of your head.

"Do you want me to put some of that cream on that helped last time bonita? Hm?" he said but you were in too much pain that was causing a numbing headache in that moment to answer.

"Tell your Pablito what you need, mi vida" he said again and you smiled weakly nodding your head to his request but when he tried to get up to grab the cream from the bathroom you wouldn't let go.

"I will be right back, I promise..and then we can lay here as long as you want okay?" he said packing your lips and you finally let him go and he rushed to return quickly with the cream in his hands.

"Alright, raise your shirt mi amor" he said and you did as he asked reveling the stitched up wound that he observed for a few seconds before smiling and moving his head slowly towards your stomach to leave a few soft kisses against it.

Your hands went into his hair while he was softly kissing around your wound and a smile found its way back to your face again. Pablo was so sweet and gentle with you making you feel that much better.

He looked up smiling while you still played with his hair returning a smile. He then sat up opening the cream and getting some on his fingers before softly applying over your wound.

You hissed as it always first made the pain worse by freezing the wound but over a few minutes it completely numbed the area and you would feel relief. Pablo knew that so he was telling you words of reassurance while applying the cream carefully.

"Shh it's okay mi preciosa..I know it hurts..just breathe okay..slow breaths" he was sitting next to you letting you get comfortable and when you laid your head on his chest listening to his heartbeat he held you there whispering sweet nothing into your ear.

"Ow..h..urts me!" you were sobbing from the pain and Pablo knew he had to distract you while medication too its time to start working.

"Mi amor..do you know what I want to have in the future?" he said and you looked up with your eyes still filled with tears but now curiosity overcame your thoughts. What did he want?

"I want a Jr...a little boy I can teach how to play fútbol or a little girl I would let braid my hair because she would be mi princesa pequeña..or both? If you agree of course?" he said and your heart was beating fast that Pablo was talking about having a family with you in the future..it was very special to hear him say that.

"Ah..um..which one..f..first?" your voice was still shaken up from the pain but he smiled that you wanted the same thing he did knowing that one day these dreams will come true.

"That can be your choice preciosa but our little Gavi will be right here in your tummy a few years…” Pablo said kissing the top of your head touching your stomach and you smiled nuzzling your nose further into his neck taking in his familiar musk that made you feel safe.

"I always wanted to give you a son..one that would be a mini version of you Pablito..have your kind eyes..fluffy hair and those adorable bushy eyebrows" you said and he smiled blushing a little at the thought of having a son with you..it was such a dream and he couldn't wait for it to become reality when you both get older.

"He would surely go to La Masia if he likes fútbol like his papi" Pablo said and you smiled nodding your head and kissing his neck lovingly while he ran his hand up and down your back soothingly.

"They gave me a second family..something I will forever cherish" Pablo said and you could tell he was nostalgic looking up as his eyes met yours for a moment of silence.

"And they raised a good man..one that is so kind hearted and giving..I'm proud of you amor" you say and he smiled leaning down to kiss you noticing that most of your tension was gone which meant medication started to work.

"Does it hurt a little less preciosa?" Pablo checked and you smiled nodding your head while resting your hand on your stomach sighing in relief.

"Thank you for distracting me while the pain passed amor..although I kinda hope you meant what you said?" you said and he smiled pulling you closer and placing his lips on yours gently.

"Of course I did! We are going to have a beautiful family one day, mi vida and I promise to take care of you and our little ones" he said and you kissed him against snaking your arms around his neck before holding his face and kissing his nose.

"You will be an amazing dad one day Pablito.." you said making him smile and pull you closer so you can boy lay down and fall asleep dreaming about your shared future.

Hope you like it <3

[mondaymelon]

never again. (yandere!childe x gn!reader)

warnings! this series will contain yandere implications, mentions of murder, kidnapping, stalking, and blackmail usage.

(a/n) this post contains triggering topics and generally dark themes. please read at your own risk. ^^ requests are open! 2/4✩

˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚*ੈ✩‧₊˚

He had let you go once. It had been a foolish mistake. And since then he vowed to never do so again.

To you, he had always been Tartaglia, your always joking around higher-up. The two of you were close, both of you having been from Shneznaya and training in the same working regimen for a little over three years now. Tartaglia had grown to be powerful enough for the position of Harbinger, but you on the other hand maintained as a Fatui general, which was just fine by you. Leading people in battle and going over war tactics was certainly a much easier job than having to give a pep talk to new recruits.

Just the thought of having to be all cheery and go-happy made you shudder. Tartaglia had despised the idea too, but had eventually gotten used to it over the months.

Still, he always tried to make time for you despite his hectic schedule. It was sweet, to say the least. He even invited you to a tavern once and had you try alcohol for the first time. The vodka had been bitter but slightly sweet, and you found yourself to enjoy it in the presence of the familiar man.

However, after he was sent to settle things in Liyue, and you in Inazuma, the two of you had no choice but to part ways. He had cried then, after he had heard the news. The moment he had saw you, his face broke into a teary expression and he had ran over to give you a tight hug.

"I'm going to miss you so much…!" He had mumbled into your ear, still holding onto you with his strong grip. "…I can't even begin to understand what it's going to be like without you."

"You're going to be okay, Taglia. I just know it." You patted the males back, slightly puzzled on what to do next. As he released his grasp on you, he only stared at you with his shimmering azul eyes.

"But I won't even be able to talk to you anymore." The male pouted. "And who'll take your place as my drinking buddy?"

"Oh- I'm sure you'll find someone." You waved your hand nonchalantly, grinning sheepishly at the boy in the hopes of giving him some comfort. "Besides, we'll still be able to exchange letters."

"But no one can replace you!"

"Tsarista's orders are Tsarista's orders, Taglia. We have to leave, but it's not the end."

"Then why does it feel like it is?"

You blinked at the male, startled. He never usually acted like this, so full of emotion or having such a large willpower or opinion on something. It made you… confused, to say the least. "I think what you need is some rest. We depart tomorrow morning, right? Let's say our goodbyes then and not dwell on such sad things now."

"…"

"Okay?"

"Alright."

"Good." Reaching up at the taller male and standing on your tippie-toes, you managed to give him a couple reassuring headpats. "Now then, let's go eat dinner, okay?"

"Okay."

⁺˖ ⁺˖ ⁺˖ ⁺ 🕤 ⁺˖ ⁺˖ ⁺˖ ⁺

"You'll watch over them, right?" Tartaglia scanned his blank eyes across the row of kneeling soldiers in front of him, searching for any signs of weakness. If they were to be the people tasked with guarding his favorite person in the whole of Teyvat, he had to make sure they were more than competent.

"Yes, sir." They all responded in unison.

"And you'll make sure they don't get hurt?"

"Yes, sir."

"Hmmm… then…" The harbinger whipped out his bow in a single fluid moment, easily creating a pair of blades that swirled with elemental energy. "Come on then, it's time to test your strength. Let's spar."

"S-Sorry?"

"Did you not hear me the first time? Get up, soldiers, and ready your weapons, for here I come!" With that, the male leaped into a battle stance, eyes glimmering with excitement. A hesitant Electrohammer Vangaurder stepped up the challenge, steadying his grip on his weapon as he stared down the ginger with glowing violet eyes. Letting out a mighty yell, he brought down the load, crackling with electro energy, and split the floor just as the harbinger leapt into safety.

"Too slow. Are all of you this pathetically weak?"

A particularly swift pyro agent speeded through the ranks, disappearing into the scenery as he used his invisibility techniques. Shooting a hand out into the seemingly empty air, Tartaglia caught the man by the throat and lifted him up into the air with a manic smile spreading across his face.

"Weak."

He repeated the word as he brought a swarm of pyroslinger bracers to their knees, clutching their bloody sides.

And yet again as he drove and weaved his blades about the whole of cryo and hydro gunners, the fatui legionares pointing their guns only at empty air before realizing that the harbinger was behind them and already knocking them out with the brunt of his blade.

And he said it one last time as the last cicin mage was rendered unconscious, collapsing to the ground, lamp flickering weakly.

"How will you ever protect my darling when all you can do is be weak? This won't do. This won't do at all." Staring at the carnage that he had made, still figures and splatters of blood covering the floor, he only let out a little laugh.

"That's right. It should be me. I was a fool to trust them. It should be me by your side, protecting you from every danger. I am the only one who can do it. It should be me. Me." He didn't seem to care if anyone was listening, after all, who could stop him? He had seen them, all of them, all of their pathetic little bodies crumpling onto the ground like the fleas they were.

"Don't worry, darling. I'll make sure to get through to you somehow and take care of all the... annoyances in your path. All you need to do is trust me." With that, the bloodied harbinger stumbled away, grabbing his coat off of its rack and readying a steed. "I'm leaving now. Don't send anyone after me." He imparted a few quick words to the guard at the watch tower, deciding to ignore the flitting look of horror on his face.

"We'll meet again soon. I'll make sure of it."

-- end of part 1.

(part 2 coming out 3/7/2023)

masterlist. next.

[calisources]

THE ONE WITH THE FACE OF AN ANGEL. all sentences and quotes were taken from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel the Series. all lines are by Angel and his soulless self, Angelus, so be warned a few of these are explicit or allude to sexual acts or have double meaning. change names, pronouns and locations (and ages) as you see fit.

That Slayer...she's a pistol.

I wanna torture you. I used to love it, and it's been such a long time. I mean, the last time I tortured someone, they didn't even have chainsaws.

Hey! Who's a guy gotta kill to get a drink around here?!

How sweet that virgin tasted, the fresh smell of a newborn's neck. My first nun - now that's a great story.

As for you, you luscious thing. I mean, you were going to let me out of that cage, so, let's see. I'll give you, what, a ten second start.

Don't be jealous, kitten. She's just the warm-up. I'll save the good stuff for you.

Angel,I love you,but I can't be with you...you ate babies...chicks.

The rumors are true. Angel has left the building, and I am back.

What won't I miss? The moralizing. Soul's already in the ether, boyo. I can smell it.

Tell you what. I'll torture ya for a few unbelievably long hours, and you can tell me if this is the lifestyle for you.

Passion rules us all. And we obey. What other choice do we have? Passion is the source of our finest moments.

If we could live without passion, maybe we'd know some kind of peace. But we would be hollow. Empty rooms, shuttered and dank.

Kill you? Why would I kill you when I can live off you for a month?

I don't want to share my feelings.I don't want to open up. I want to find the guy who killed Tina and look him in the eye.

Are you mad at me for being around too much or not being around enough?

I don't need strength. I just need the sun to rise.

I hated the girls back then.especially the noble women...they were just incredibly dull.

They have no taste for the undead. Not that a sting would do me any damage, it's just... tonight's special.

There's a lot I don't understand. I do know it's important to keep fighting. I learned that from you.

My people, before I was changed, they exchanged this as a sign of devotion. It's a claddagh ring.

Wear it with the heart pointing towards you. It means you belong to somebody.

I'm sorry. I wanted to take you out somewhere fun. It's been a long time since I've been to the movies. They've changed.

How can we be together if the cost is your life, or the lives of others? I know. I couldn't tell you. I wasn't sure - if I could do it if I woke up with you one more morning.

Don't mistake me. I do love the ladies. It's just lately... I've been wondering... what it'd be like... to share the slaughter of innocents... with another man.

Don't... I don't think that makes me some kind of a deviant, hmm? Do you?

Sorry about the chains. It's not that I don't trust you, it's... Actually, it is that I don't trust you.

I can walk like a man but I'm not one.

I'm weak. I've never been anything else.

I wanted to lose myself in you. I know it will cost me my soul, and part of me didn't care. It's not the demon in me that needs killing, Buffy, it's the man.

For a hundred years I offered ugly death to everyone I met, and I did it with a song in my heart.

You're a wreck! She's stronger than any Slayer you've ever faced. Force won't get it done. You gotta work from the inside. To kill this girl... you have to love her.

Let me guess, you summoned back the true Angelus because you need a new boy toy.

Oh, my cure? No, thanks. Been there, done that, and deja vu just isn't what it used to be.

The elders conjured the most perfect punishment for me. They restored my soul.

When you become a vampire, the demon takes your body, but it doesn't get your soul; that's gone. No conscience, no remorse, it's an easy way to live.

You have no idea what it's like to have done the things I've done...and care. I haven't fed on a human being since that day.

See? Whenever we fight you always bring up the vampire thing.

Gave her the puppy dog "I'm all tortured" act. Keeps her off my back when I feed.

Listen, if we date, you and I both know one thing's going to lead to another.

This isn't some fairy tale. When I kiss you, you don't wake up from a deep sleep and live happily ever after.

I did a lot of unconscionable things when I became a vampire. Drusilla was the worst. She was ... an obsession of mine. She was pure, sweet, and chaste.

Killed everybody she loved. Visited every mental torture on her I could devise. She eventually fled to a convent, and on the day she took her holy orders, I turned her into a demon.

She made me feel like a human being. That's not the kind of thing you just forgive.

Spike, boy you never did learn your history.

If I was blind, I would see you.

A demon isn't a man. I was a man once.

Because I wanted to! Because I want you so badly! I want to take comfort in you.

Am I a thing worth saving, huh?! Am I a righteous man? The world wants me gone!

I watched you, I saw you called, it was a bright afternoon out in front of your school. You walked down the steps and ... I loved you.

Because I could see your heart. You held it before you for everyone to see, and I was worried that it would get bruised or torn. And more than anything in my life, I wanted to keep it safe.

I can stay in town as long as you want me.

I never was much for preachers.

God, I missed watching this.

I’ll start working on the second front. Try not to use it.

Hm. You smell so good. So warm. I miss that.

You're wrong. You don't know what it is you're asking me to do.

Oh, what's the matter? Look a little nervous.

They always mistake me for the character I play. They never see the real me!

When you kill them. Some just stand there frozen while others.. . 

This was about saving somebody's soul. That's what I do here and you're not a part of it.

That's great, it's nice you moved on; I can't. You found someone new; I'm not allowed to, remember?

I see you again, it cuts me up inside, and the person I share that with is me.

You don't know me anymore, so don't come down here with your great new life and expect me to do things your way. Go home.

Buttering me up. Getting me all relaxed, hm? Not the most innovative interrogation technique, but... OK, I'll play.

Well, now that's a question. Not a great question. Not even an insightful question. 

So much for stand by your man. Then again, you probably like her on her knees.

The more you piss me off, the longer I'll keep you alive.

Oh, something tells me she's a screamer.

Hey, you remember that time you tried to get Angel to kill you because you felt all weepy over being such a bad little girl. Huh? Do you still feel that way? Do you still wanna die?

Well, it's not really the kind of message you tell. It sort of involves finding the bodies of all your friends.

I don't need to see movies to get worked up. Just being around you does that just fine. It feels nice, just to feel.

You still my girl?

I know what you're thinking. Maybe there's some good deep down inside of me that remembers and loves you, if only you could reach me.

You know what I just can't believe, all of our time together and we never tried chains.

Dream on, schoolgirl. Your boyfriend is dead and you're all gonna join him.

[armoricaroyalty]

𝐕𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐄'𝐒 𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 / ❛ boy crazy ❜ part two (@nexility-sims)

When Zofia walked into a room, everyone noticed. It might have been the enormity of her hair or the constant noise of her rings and bracelets or else the overwhelmingly sweet scent of her favorite body mist, but she was captivating in every sense of the word. Hannah had been jealous of her, once upon a time. It would have been impossible to grow up with her without any jealousy: next to Zofia, everyone became shabby and dull. Ranks didn't matter at all, no title or royal honor could ever compete with that kind of natural charisma. Hannah loved her, but there had been days when she'd hated her, too. Now, though, she was only grateful. When Zofia walked in, nobody noticed the rest of them slipping out.

read part one here

author's note: @nexility-sims and I have been working on the zofia/rui romance since....early 2022? some time in 2021? since #rufia has completely dominated 2/3 of our joint brain power for years, it seemed fitting to finally let them out of our DM's to celebrate Love Day Valentine's Day. Happy V-Day, everyone!

Transcript under the cut.

CHEF | Aren't long nails against dress code, anyway? SERVER | [laughs] Girl, I don't give a fuuu— SERVER | You wanna know who else is wearing acrylics tonight? CHEF | [bored] I dunno, who? SERVER | Oh, nobody, just the Princess Zofia. CHEF | [gasps] CHEF | Shut. Up. You actually talked to her? What was she like? SERVER | She's fucking gorgeous. Like, obviously, but up close, she's even more beautiful. CHEF | Yeah, yeah, but what was she like? SERVER | Okay, so I didn't actually talk to her because she was all over her new boyfriend. They were like, so into each other. It was so sweet. CHEF | Really? I heard it's just a PR relationship so people will think she's over Sigis. SERVER | No way! They're obviously crazy abut each other. You can't fake— UNIDENTIFIED MAN | [offscreen] EVERYBODY OUT! HUGO | What, do I gotta say it again? All of you, clear out! HANNAH | [sighs] Please excuse us. HANNAH | My cousin and I need somewhere to speak privately. Will you please excuse us for a moment? CHEF | ??? SERVER | [shrugs] HUGO | ...anyway, did you see it? HANNAH | See what? HUGO | That stupid little hair flip. He did it a million times. HANNAH | He's growing it out for her. HUGO | Really? Hard to believe, he's so fucking vain. HANNAH | She told me she asked him to grow it long. [deep, beleaguered sigh] She thinks it's sexy. HUGO | What, are you for real? HANNAH | Oh yeah. She's always had a thing for guys with long hair. HUGO | ...huh. HANNAH | Anyway...what's your take? Personally, I don't see what she sees in him. HUGO | [snorts] He's better than Marshall. HANNAH | That's the world's lowest bar. Subterranean, in fact. HUGO | So what are we going to do? HANNAH | He's not a dog, we can't just run him off. HUGO | Well, you can't, but maybe if I— PIDGE | [offscreen] HEY! What are you two talking about? PIDGE | ...and why are you hanging out in the kitchen? ARTHUR | ....hi. HUGO | [icily] Farrier. HANNAH | It's late, Pidge. What are you still doing up? PIDGE | Uh, excuse you. Mama said I can stay until midnight. ARTHUR | ...you two aren't talking about Rui and Zofie, are you? HUGO | ... HANNAH | ...no. PIDGE | You two are such LIARS! PIDGE | Both of you are judgy control freaks! I thought he was really nice. HUGO | He could barely string a sentence together. ARTHUR | I mean...Armorican is his third or fourth language, isn't it? HUGO | Whatever! He gives me the creeps. HANNAH | Well, she says she's in love. HUGO | [scoffs] In love? They've known each other for six months. PIDGE | So? What if it was love at first sight? HANNAH | [exasperated] Pidge— HUGO | Just ignore her, she's fourteen. PIDGE | For your information, I'm fifteen. And I'll be sixteen in May, sooo— HUGO | Yeah, a baby— ARTHUR | Can I remind everyone that Zofia is twenty-two? She's an adult, she can make her own choices, and this is none of our business. HUGO | You're right, Farrier. It's none of your business. HANNAH | [offscreen] Hugo, enough. PIDGE | [mouthing] Rude. HANNAH | Arthur, what was your read? ARTHUR | I don't know, and I don't want to form a judgment until I've actually gotten to know him. He seems...fine? On par with the other guys she's dated. HANNAH | [sighs] "On par with all her other boyfriends" is the entire problem. HANNAH | I just don't want her to get hurt again. This happens every time, you know? She falls hard and fast and then the guy turns out to be a scum-sucking lowlife. PIDGE | [laughs] Hellooooo, what about Van? He was— HANNAH | Probably thw worst of all of them. Trust me, Pigeon. He's...he's no good. HUGO | [jokingly] You see, baby bird? That's why you're not allowed to date until you're thirty and why Hannah's gonna join a convent— PIDGE | No way, that's not fair. HANNAH | [tiredly] Hugo, shut up. No one asked. PIDGE | Yeah, Hugo. No one asked. ARTHUR | Look, I think we should at least give the guy a chance. HANNAH | [sighs] I guess we owe her that much. PIDGE | Guys, I actually talked to him, and trust me: he is like, sooo nice. HUGO | ... HUGO | I bet I could take him. PIDGE | Hey! Hannah, did you hear what he just said—

[apicelladonna]

In Between Seconds.

one shot: Albus Dumbledore-centric, on the topic of one (1) Gellert Grindelwald, Grindeldore, Musings.

It is 1991, The Headmaster's office hears a loud crack of magik. Lo, behold in front of him were the same set of haunted blue eyes albeit younger and dimmer.

Or how Professor Albus came to Headmaster Dumbledore for some divorce counselling.

....

"Good evening," the headmaster said, his eyes twinkling with a mix of curiosity and surprise. "To what do I owe this unexpected visit?"

The professor took a moment to steady himself, still disoriented from where he once came. "Good evening. I suppose this is rather unorthodox, isn't it?" he replied, his voice carrying the same gentle timbre, yet with an unmistakable edge of youth.

"It certainly is," he agreed, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Might I inquire what year it is for you, my boy?"

"1932," the younger Albus answered, glancing around the room. "And if I may be so bold, what year is it now, Headmaster?"

"1991, Professor." he responded, his gaze mischievous. "Quite a leap, wouldn't you say?"

"Indeed," the younger Albus murmured, almost to himself.

He spared a glance at the desk with the familiar candy bowl still there that he had in his own classroom. "I see we are still fond of sweets even at such age."

"It's the secret to my longevity, of course. There's nothing like a good sherbet lemons to keep a prune like me going." The headmaster chuckled, looking at Albus. He leaned forward and spoke in a calm tone. "So, my dear younger self. Why have you bothered visiting me? Against all our coda on such magik? Time crossing is a fickle thing."

Albus smiled weakly "Forgive the intrusion. I find myself in need of…guidance that only the future could guarantee."

The headmaster hummed, his eyes never leaving the younger man. "May I ask what event has led you to break such a solemn oath?"

His younger self hesitated, then spoke, his voice tinged with sadness. "I just came from a café, where I met with Gel-Grindelwlald. He invited me to reconsider joining him."

A flicker of recognition and sorrow crossed the headmaster’s face. He knew this memory well. “Ah, I see,” he said softly. "Oh the lovely spot, yes. That meeting. A pivotal moment."

"You declined his offer," Albus said, more a statement than a question.

"I did," the headmaster confirmed. "It was not an easy decision, but it was the right one."

The professor nodded slowly, the weight of his own indecision pressing heavily on his shoulders. "He extended the offer for one week. I... I didn't know what to do."

Ah.

"And how do you feel about his invitation, my boy?"

Albus suddenly looks so small in front of the older wizard and ashamed as his shoulders sagged in his confession.

"...I want to join him.." his voice barely audible. "Merlin, I want to be with him again..."

The headmaster sighed, his eyes reflecting a lifetime of memories and regrets. “Albus, my boy, the path Gellert offers is one of power and domination. It is a path that leads to darkness, to suffering.”

"Love can be a powerful and blinding force," he adds gently. "It can lead us to justify actions we would otherwise condemn. But ask yourself, my boy, does your desire for this friend of ours outweigh the safety of the world?"

The younger Albus looked conflicted, "That is why I am here. Why should we be the one to bear this burden? Do we not deserve happiness? To be loved?"

"I still love him. Even after all that he has done..." he admits to his older self, glancing at him. "Do you?"

And for once, their eyes stilled the same glint of blue. "I do."

He regarded his younger self with pity. He could see how much emotions seep through his face, his heart ached for a reunion.

"You will have a decade before a finality. A lot will change and happen within those years. I have faith in you, Professor." His expression hardened again, his voice firm but compassionate.

"Make the right choice for the sake of magic, for the sake of the world, and for the sake of our own conscience."

"Merlin's beard, I sound so ambiguous when I give out advices..." Albus laughed shakily at his elder self's remark.

Bright blue eyes brimming tears as it has been almost six days since Grindelwald had given him time to think about the offer.

It will be the seventh tomorrow if he returns now.

"We love him too much, do we not?" he asked himself.

" We do. Far too much, my dear boy."

_____

Ella: In my defense, I was brainstorming certain parts of PHBF's logic and it vomited this instead.

May or may not continue unless the wells dry up. This is a WIP until further notice.

What do you think? :"D

[the-fiction-witch]

GIRL P1

Media The Artful Dodger

Character Jack Dawkins (Younger Jack Navy Years)

Couple Jack X Reader

Rating Sweet

I sat on my bed inside my cabin and tossed my lucky coin between my fingers my book in hand tried to get this damn reading done but it wasn't exactly going well. A dirty grimy head pops around the door, "You comin'?" Mick asked with a wide enthusiastic smile, "No thanks," I told him, "Jack. Come on." He whined as he leant on the door frame, "Don't be borin'," "I'm fine being boring," I shrugged, "Yeah, and I ain't. Come on! I'll buy ya a drink?" "I'm fine Mick really," "When did ya last get your sorry blonde butt off this boat?" "…uhhh…" I honestly didn't remember, "When did ya last have some beer that weren't watered down?" "You think it isn't at the tavern?" "It'll be less watered down," "… Maybe six months," "We've been at sea longer than that ya lil shit," "Then I don't know," "When was the last time ya even sniffed a girl?" "uhh… I think I saw a girl last time we docked, don't think I was close enough to sniff her though…" "Jack, let's go. walk or I shove ya." "Fine," I rolled my eyes and set my book down, "Yes! Come on I'll buy ya a drink," he said as he wrapped his arm around my shoulder so I couldn't get out of this, "Where are we going then?" "Ahh there is this amazing place me and the boys know just down the street we'll be plenty close to the ship, the drinks are strong, the pies are full and the girls…. are gorgeous," He explained as he led me up though the ship, "And trust me ya'll be close enough to do more than sniff 'em, Jack," "Ohh Eerrr…" "What?" "Nothing I just uhhh… I don't think I'll take up on the girls," "Ohh? No?" He asked, "They have boys too?" "No. No, I just…" "Wait," he smirked, he fully stopped as we got on deck and turned to me with this smirk, "Jack?" He smirked as he narrowed his eyes and I just stayed silent sheepishly, "… when did Grimm bring you on? How old were ya?" "…14." I gulped as I prayed he wasn't going to catch on, but his eyes lit up.

"And you're an anti-social little shit ya never come off the ship with us? "Yeah…" "so…" "No." "Oh my god…" "Don't." "You're a- "Don't! Say it!" "No… no… ya can't… you're a-" "Don't. Say. It. Mick." "Okay… okay, our little secret," he laughed, "Okay, thank you." I nodded, "let's just go for a drin-" I began, "Jack's a Virgin!" Mick yelled at full volume which made everyone stop and look at me, "Thanks, Mick," I sighed, "You're welcome," he smirked, At that moment everyone else still on the ship banded together and forced me off the ship, I knew I wasn't getting out of this I could have weaselled out with just Mick but I knew I didn't have a choice now. They all but dragged me down the street all while making jokes at my expense until we reached a little hole in the wall Traven 'The Maidens View' and I was kicked inside. Everyone found somewhere to sit and I tried to hide in the corner but Mick forced me to sit with him at the bar. Mick bought me a drink as I looked around, the place was clean, tidy the scent of beer and smoke was in the air, and I admit the girls were… pretty. Honestly, they didn't need to be I can't even remember the last time I was this close to a girl. Everyone made jokes at my expense and tried to get me interested in one of the girls but I was too blushy and embarrassed to even talk to them. "Come on! ya, pick. Anyone you want. me and Sam are going in," Mick laughed as he sipped his drink,

"What?" I blushed, "we'll pay for it come on it's your first," Sam chuckled as he shoved my shoulder, "I don't know…" I said sheepishly, "Come on, any of them take ya fancy? if not we can go down the street there are a hundred whores places like this." Mick explained, I sighed and for the first time, I actually looked at the girls rather than merely being blown away by them, none of them… really seemed all that interesting, "No," I shrugged, "No? alright, we'll finish up and take you somewhere else." Sam laughed, I nodded as I had some more of my drink kinda half hoping I could keep bar popping with them until they were too drunk to remember about all this and honestly I didn't much like any of the girls here they all seemed like… I don't know, like when you look at an old bed and you can just tell how many other people have laid in it and it just makes you… not wanna lay on it for fear of it breaking, or being gross. But… unfortunately, I stopped short as I glanced up across the tavern and saw a girl, she couldn't have been much older than me in a little sage green dress that she adjusted up her shoulder where it had fallen down her arm, her hair in a sweet braid wrapped around her head, she came down the stairs and grabbed some tankards that she began to take to tables. She was very cute, quite pretty, and… had a little bit more of a refined way about her I guess. the unfortunate part is that as I noticed her pretty much everyone noticed that I noticed her and began their jokes and playful encouragement.

And before I even had time to attempt to protest Mick and Sam were talking to the bartender and paid him. So… I'm not getting out of this. She finished up with the drinks and returned to the bar setting her tray down, where the bartender spoke to her and she nodded. "Which of you was it?" The bartender asked, "This strapping lad here." Mick laughed giving my arm a playful punch, She nodded and smiled as she came and stood in front of me, she offered her hand and for a moment I was too nervous to move, but I took her hand and let her lead me up towards the stairs as I heard everyone from the ship encouraging and making jokes at me, "Take good care of him!" Mick yelled as she took me up the stairs and into a little room with her.

[ure-a-sunflower]

Truth, Dare, and Jealousy

Written by ure-a-sunflower

Eddie Munson x reader!all genders (Stranger Things fanfiction)

This is my first time publishing any of my work since I really wanted to gatekeep this stuff to myself. I’ll be honest, I wrote a lot of Eddie fan fics so I’ll see how this one turns out. Please be nice, I beg of you. I just did this for fun back in August of 2022.

CONTENT WARNING: alcohol consumption, mentions of smoking, some swearing, NO SPOILERS

Word Count: 3k

Eddie knew well that you hardly expressed crushes on real life boys aside from your beloved fictional characters. He was fine with that, honestly, because competition with some actually-not-real man that was good as paper and had as much depth as a kids blow up pool was nothing too personal for him. It was probably the dark brooding charm female authors would win you over with or the romantic promises these guys had that were downright unrealistic.

Regardless of that, you and Eddie connect really well and while he didn’t want to admit it, he was starting to develop feelings for you.

(Rest of the fic is below the cut)

This was kinda bad. You had only joined Hellfire a year ago and you got to Eddie real good. The other boys didn’t see it as much, but the way you both would squeal and jump for joy when you would come up with campaign ideas and talk about the most recent news of D&D… he never thought anyone else was like him. That was probably the first time he actually noticed you way past being a member of his club. Sure, you weren’t the biggest metalhead like the others, but when he saw you singing along to Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden in his van, he thought he was hallucinating.

But he was the group’s dungeon master and you weren’t held on the same freak level as him. You still hung out with your other best friends and your choice of aesthetic only dabbled in a bit of punk when given the chance. He thought you looked gorgeous when you would mix both. And considering how good you both got on already, Eddie was afraid he’d ruin what was between you. He couldn’t bear making it awkward.

At the end of a long week before a big school break, Eddie invited you to his trailer to hang out. The other Hellfire members had plans, which left the both of you alone.

“Truth or dare?” Eddie asked, while offering you another shot of the brandy. You downed it after swiping it from his hands and wiped your lips with your shirt. “Um, truth. Got nothing to hide.”

“Uhhh, alright.” Eddie leaned back to think. What useful information can he get out of you? He practically knew everything about you since you act like an open book around him. “Okay, I got one.”

“Shoot, Munson.” You didn’t like the clever smirk on his face.

“Who do you think is the most attractive member in Hellfire?”

Damn, you didn’t expect him to enter that territory. Eddie only took up your offer for a drinking game because you were getting sick of him being short of a human smoke machine. You weren’t planning to confess your stupid little crush on him that you’ve had for months now. What would he think of you?

“Wow, uh, you really wanna know?” you laughed it off awkwardly. Eddie noticed your uncomfortableness and chuckled. “I mean, you can answer my question or pick a worse dare, honey.”

God, his stupid nicknames. He wasn’t tipsy like you at the moment because unlike you, Eddie wasn’t a lightweight. “Let me hear the punishment then. I’ll consider my options.”

“That’s so against the rules but since you’re my favorite, I’ll tell you… I dare you to run around the trailer park, naked, and singing.”

“Eddie!” you yelled. “Are you trying to have fun or have me admitted to the nearest psychiatric ward?!” Soon, he was rollling on the floor, laughing. You couldn’t even bring yourself to imagine what you’d look like. Sure, you’d do anything for Eddie Munson, but that? You’d have to pass.

“So, ‘most attractive member’ then? Come on, sweets, we don’t have all night.”

“But won’t that sound like I’m attracted to them?”

“I mean, maybe. Be as objective as you want.”

You gulped. You really didn’t want Eddie to assume you had a crush on him but you also didn’t want him to think you had one on another Hellfire member. The least thing you’d want him to do is tease you with someone else. On top of things, inflating his already big sarcastic ego would end you.

“Um… huh, that’s tough…” You put your chin in your finger and thought hard. None of the freshmen were on the table. Jeff is sweet but he wasn’t your type— he was more like a brother to you, anyways. Last person left…

Everyone in Hellfire wasn’t afraid to admit that Gareth was handsome. Sure, he still had the baby cheeks and freckles from middle school, but you think his hair is really cute and fluffy even way back then. You always went out of your way to point that out and he’d blush super hard. He also gives you the best hugs, rivalring Eddie’s. Gareth is sweet and nice to you in and out of school, opposite of Grant and Eddie who are total pranksters. You have a soft spot for the guy. If only you weren’t so close with Eddie, you’d probably be fully head over heels with Gareth already.

You took a deep breath and shook your head in between a chuckle. “I guess I’m gonna go with Gareth.”

Eddie’s heart kinda stopped. Gareth? Gareth Emerson? He was already planning in his head how he would react when you’d say it was him. Ready to thank you and graciously shower you with praises while you roll your eyes and tell him not to take it too personally. That’s kind of why he asked the question, if he was being honest. He wanted to hear it from you.

You always loved teasing and calling Eddie your “pretty boy”, playing with his hair and braiding it whenever you both hung out. Once, you complimented his doe eyes while you were both out and about, and Eddie never forgot that moment since. It was the first time anyone has really noticed his features like that. The first time you met him, you even said his style was cool because he looked like a certified rockstar. But you thought Gareth was the most attractive when you were both alone right now? Seriously?

Eddie figured he’ll need to down a whole bottle and smoke himself to death once you go home. Then he just got more worried.

Why did he react that way?

“Eds, you good?” You waved a hand in front of his face as Eddie snapped out of his thoughts. You waited for his response after he kind of just blanked out.

He regretted asking you for the truth now. Should’ve just gone with like ‘what’s your go-to ice cream flavor’ or ‘who’s your favorite dungeon master and rockstar whose name starts with an E and rhymes with teddy’. Now, he just felt like some pathetic loser pouting because he didn’t like your answer. God, he felt like a stupid middle schooler all over again.

“Yeah, yeah, I’m alright.” He looked like he snapped out of his trance but his eyes look everywhere but yours. His hands seize the bottle and he downs some. “So, uh, Gareth huh?”

Completely oblivious, you giggle and shove his shoulder. “Don’t tell him I told you that. Besides, I only see him as a close friend.” You better, Eddie thought. You noticed the tension in Eddie’s jaw and put a hand on his thigh to calm him down. It only had the opposite effect. “Hey. Something’s bothering you, I can tell.”

“It’s nothing. Why did you choose Gareth?”

The way he so quickly changed the subject didn’t slip past you. But you figured it wasn’t worth pressing on more. “I mean,” you scratch your neck, “he’s really sweet and it’s no secret that he’s got good genes.”

Eddie’s eyebrows only furrowed. The grin of disbelief on his face looked less amused and more annoyed.

“Really? I mean, am I not sweet? It’s gotta be the hair, isn’t it?”

You tilted your head in confusion.

“Eddie… are you… jealous?”

You thought he was gonna have a whiplash with the way he snapped his head towards you. “What did you just say?” Despite the utter confusion in his face, you knew he heard you. You smirked and continued.

“Are you jealous of me saying Gareth’s attractive?” His poor best friend Gareth, having no idea that Eddie’s currently dunking his head in a barrel of water in his mind. How dare he look attractive to the person he’s had the biggest crush ever on. Now, they’re onto him.

Playing dumb was his only option. “No, I’m not. Why would I be jealous? Don’t be ridiculous. I’m teasing you about this!” Air quotes and all, you saw through his façade. The defenses were raised and you could tell Eddie was lying. His ears were a brighter pink than before and though you were tipsy, you still had a strong intuition that you just made your best friend envious. The alcohol in your system seemed to not only fuel your courage but also your audacity. You leaned in to mess with him further. “I just figured, y’know, since you reacted when I said that.”

“I did not react.” Such a child. You wiggled your eyebrows.

“Sure…” An idea popped in your head. “Then, you wouldn’t mind if I asked Gareth out after break?”

Eddie thought he was going to faint. Or combust. Whichever was faster.

“Are— Are you fucking serious?!” Eddie jumped in his seat, accidentally banging his knees on the table and staring at you like you’ve grown another head. You were laughing at this point, clutching your stomach and throwing your head back. If only Eddie didn’t hear your previous words, he would’ve thought you looked like a pure angel. But he was genuinely shocked.

“Munson, what has gotten into you?! I’m only joking!” Eddie’s been having heart attack after heart attack with each sentence you uttered. He didn’t know if he should be relieved or pissed off at you. “You really don’t like me going out with him, don’t you? Well, I know how much Gareth means to Jeff. Can’t get in the way of the most legendary bromance in Hawkins.”

Eddie slapped a hand over his face and groaned. He opened his mouth to say something when you beat him to it. “Or does it feel incestuous to date someone from Hellfire? I see why you’re so protective of them. I kinda see the boys as like my brothers—“

“Just shut up!” Playing cards, napkins, plastic forks— they scattered from the table to the floor as Eddie frantically attempts to quiet you. You stopped and stared at him. Usually, you would shrink away and tear up when someone raised their voice like that at you, but you knew Eddie would never mean you any harm. But then again, this was a first. And he sounded so serious.

After no one still said a word, you coughed and decided to change the topic. “… A-Alright, um, that’s enough truth or dare for one night.”

When you were about to leave and walk yourself home, because you were too tipsy as hell to even bike, Eddie insisted you stay. You gave up arguing with him when nothing could convince him to leave you there in the streets all by yourself. He couldn’t drive you either because he was slightly high, never wanting to lose his van because of a DUI arrest, and casually admitted that he won’t be able to sleep knowing you weren’t safe.

You were quite basically trapped in his arms as he cuddled you on his couch.

It was a compromising position, really. You never figured Eddie to be the cuddlebear, but the way he clung onto you was like you were going to disappear from his hands. To make yourself comfortable, you cuddled into him, placing your head on his chest, and Eddie’s heart melted at your gesture.

Your head in his chest, his legs over yours— he was going to be so pissed at himself in the morning.

He knew what he was doing but also not. So did you. This was how lovers would hold each other. It just felt right to be in the other’s arms and not care about the world, a crazy and cruel world. Yes, you were both good friends, but this was just you guys testing the waters of your friendship. No romantic shit. It was just two tipsy best friends cuddling closely on the couch, a thriller movie in the background as soft rain pattered outside. Super platonic. Yep.

You were drifting off to sleep time and time again because of how good of a white noise the TV and rain were, and Eddie couldn’t help but notice. However, he had something bothering him that he had to bring up to you before you start dozing off and become knocked off cold. He couldn’t wait until the morning to tell you since he knew well he’d chicken out again. Perhaps he invited you to drink some alcohol so he could finally confess using liquid courage, and in the case if you’d reject him, he’d just blame it on being drunk. Perfect foolproof plan.

“Hey,” Eddie whispered your name by the shell of your ear. You stirred from your sleepiness and turned up to him. “Hey, um… I’m sorry if I, uh, made an outburst earlier.”

It wasn’t easy to decipher what this was all about, especially when you were half-asleep and in the midst of sobering at this point. “For what? About Gareth? Don’t worry, I know we were being stupid.” You still didn’t understand why he made such a fuss, but you were just trying to move on from the situation. Nevermind figuring out his reasons. Your heart was pounding miles a minute. You were holding your crush like you were partners, and you wanted to be out of there and in between his arms more than ever at the same time. It was worth cherishing this position before you two part in the morning and just pretend nothing happened.

Eddie hated that you said his name again. “Yeah… I just…you know… I guess I was jealous.”

You took a pause to digest what he said. “You were? Oh, Eddie, I know I said Gareth but you’re still the pretty boy! I mean, you know I love your hair and your eyes—“

“No, it’s not that I’m jealous of Gareth’s looks.” Eddie took a deep breath. Yours hitched, waiting for his next words. He tried to look into your eyes but you could see them shaking and he kept averting your gaze. “I… well… shit. H-How am I gonna say this….?”

“… Yeah?”

“I-I got… I got jealous… that you like him.”

At this point you were grasping at sticks. What did that even mean? Was he jealous of the attention? Of your feelings? That another guy was held in a position higher than Eddie Munson, Hellfire’s Beloved Leader? It was starting to get annoying.

“Eddie, we’re so close and we’ve been great friends since I’ve known you. Fucking hell, you’re our Dungeon Master. I know you and Gareth are like brothers and I get it if you don’t want anyone dating in the club. You’ve got nothing to worry about just because I think he’s got looks—“

“No,” he shook his head, finally demanding your attention, “like, I like like you. I have feelings for you and I want to be with you. As your… boyfriend.”

You were certainly stunned.

Maybe you just waited and pushed for him to say it, but you still couldn’t believe it. Did Eddie just confess he liked you? First? You wanted to soar and you felt like you could touch stars. Holy shit. You wanted to pinch yourself to make sure you weren’t dreaming. Was it the alcohol that made you like this?

“…And I know I sound stupid or selfish but I guess I have to make my moves now since you want to ask Gareth out.”

Your mouth was still gaped wide open as Eddie continued rambling about how much he liked you. “—like we were alone in the drama room one night while cleaning and we danced to that stupid jazzy song you put on like my parents used to when I was a kid and I didn’t know it at that time but I think that’s when I realized I was falling really badly for you—“

You had scooted your way towards him the entire time he was going on and on, fully facing his direction, and took his hands that were wildly gesturing the entire time. “Eddie.”

“—because you’re just so nice and understanding and patient with me a-and— huh?” He was staring at you like a baby deer in headlights as you cupped his cheek. You could feel the warmth as his eyes widened. “I really like you too. I’ve fallen in love with you for months now.”

There was just silence. Silence on your end because you can’t believe you’ve finally said that, and Eddie was shortcircuiting with the words you’ve said to him. He had to repeat them in his head to make sure they really meant what he was thinking they meant. “You… You really—? But Gareth—“

“I only said Gareth because I didn’t know if I should confess I like you. I’ve had a crush on you since sophomore year.”

“You liked me for that long?! Wha— Wait, I, oh gosh so you actually like me?”

“Eddie, I want to be yours. I love you. I really do.”

That was the happiest he’s been in forever. If he had to put it in words, it felt like someone lit a firework and his heart was fizzing around the room.

Pulling you to him, he mumbled a “may I kiss you?” and you nodded eagerly. Eddie placed a hand below your chin and locked his lips with yours passionately, absolutely savoring this moment because he’s been waiting for it for sleepless nights and hopeless daydreams. It was finally happening.

He whispered in between kisses, “I love you so so much” which made you giggle. “I can’t believe I have the best, kindest, and hottest partner in all of the world.” When you rolled your eyes, Eddie shook his head disapprovingly and kissed you once again until you were literally gasping for air and telling him “okay! Okay! I believe you! Gosh, I love you so much, Eddie!”

At the next campaign, it was no doubt a surprise to Hellfire when Eddie suddenly announced you were his partner the moment you walked in the door.

[yuurivoice]

The question about how you write characters reminded me of a question I'd been meaning to ask you for a minute!!! I've noticed almost all the boys have veryyyy distinct diction, which I thought was really cool. It's not just a difference in voice or accent. This was first super obvious to me with the Auron penthouse tour audio when I knew just a moment before he said it, that he'd describe something as "preposterous."

SO my question is how do you do it + maintain it? And is there ever a point where it comes subconscious as your writing a character's script?

That's something I've become more and more conscious of as I've added characters and sometimes it's not the easiest thing! Sometimes I actually think it's a weak point of mine I need to focus on getting better at and am actively conscious of as I'm writing nowadays.

We run into the "creative vs. worker" situation I'm in where as much as I want to be really good about that sort of thing, sometimes I just need to get the fucking work done if I wanna eat so I better stow my ego and perfectionism and trust that it's fine and I'll get another crack at doing a better job of it next time around. There are times where I'll be deep into a recording session, second guess myself, and want to re-write or do another take of the WHOLE THING and it's like...no dude we gotta go. lol

Familiarity with characters matters a ton. I think I did a great job with the most recent Faust stuff, where he felt really unique among the roster of boys. His speech, mannerisms, and character in general gets me further away from what I'm familiar with. I knew it was something I wanted to nail with him, and I think just being aware helped a ton as I worked through it.

Alphonse and Charlie suffer from my unbearable enjoyment of having that accent say big words. It's just fuckin funny to me and will never not get me to giggle, even if it shouldn't really be in their everyday vernacular. Charlie has the added lore excuse of being lowkey smart (Jessie mentions he should have stayed in school) and being Auron's beta reader. Alphonse isn't necessarily well read, but he knows words. Perhaps too many at times, but it's something I'm aware of.

Auron is right in the sweet spot, him being a bit arrogant + desperately romantic allows me to go directions that don't necessarily fit with the rest of the roster.

Seth is similar in that the southern sweetheart approach opens up its own language opportunities.

Finn is one that I'm still playing with. I like when he gets poetic and thoughtful. I think the sweet spot with him was in the hiking/bug audio. Shoutout to that commissioner btw, because I really tucked some lore in that thing years ago. He gets the most "dreamy" of the lot, I think? He romanticizes the mundane the most, and I don't think that was even a conscious choice at first.

As I tackle Echoes and other projects that involve more characters and variety I'm definitely becoming more and more aware of my habits. I actually think that aside from "cook with this mf narrative", ensuring that my individual character voices are distinct and strong is priority number one in the writing room for me right now.

Saying ALL OF THAT to say thank you for thinking that, I'm a tough critic when it comes to myself, but if I've managed to make someone think I'm decent at what I've identified as a weakness, I can at least know that I don't have to beat myself up over it lmfao.