#but I decided that a comic would be better

[mothinked]

Upon leaving the water, Ellie let herself dry off under the sun for several minutes. She used that time to go through her pack and take stock of what she had. Jack followed when his humans went to shore, yipping and shaking the water from his fur. It got all over them, naturally, and Ellie scolded him playfully. After deciding her skin was dry enough and that her undergarments wouldn't be soaked under a fresh layer of clothing, Ellie slipped on a pair of dark gray cargos and a flannel she left entirely unbuttoned with the sleeves rolled up, sports bra visible underneath. Bathing properly could wait until the morning; she felt so much better from that swim.

Lev finished dressing and as she was combing her hair from her spot at the picnic table, he went to grab the rod she left leaning against the cabin. "That one's good to go," she called out to him. "There's another inside I'll use." Her pistol was taken from its holster and tucked at the small of her back—just in case. She watched Lev for a moment, his face the picture of focus as he examined the reel, then remembered they needed bait. When she clicked her tongue, Jack rose from the grass and approached. "Okay, buster. Don't think I'm letting you off the hook that easy. No pun intended."

Ellie squatted down on her haunches and used a hand to dig into the wet earth, close to the shoreline where worms were most likely to be. She looked to Jack then repeated the digging motion. His tail wagged. She glanced over at him again, letting him see how she was flicking the dirt in the hopes that his instinct to dig would kick in. It was a comical display, to see the redhead digging like she was trying to show her dog that she was willing to engage in activities he liked, too.

Lev watched with the fishing rod still in hand, trying his best not to smile but failing miserably as Ellie started cussing and flinging more dirt while Jack observed with keen interest. He was full on belly laughing when Abby arrived with the firewood.

Then, much to Ellie's relief, Jack finally caught on what he was supposed to do and started digging a hole where she indicated. "Oh, ha ha," she grumbled and brushed the dirt from her hands, which made Lev laugh more. "You're making it real hard not to fling mud at you right now." But the truth was, she liked his laugh. And despite her bout of mild frustration, she was soon laughing along with him. She stood with a snort and walked over to give Lev's shoulder a shove. He shoved her right back, grinning cheekily. "I swear if the dog doesn't find us worms, I'll throw myself to the fish instead."

Abby's reappearance didn't make Ellie's humor dissolve. She briefly watched the other woman at work but didn't interrupt. The smile Lev had brought out remained on her face as she went to see if Jack unearthed any worms. Everything she knew about fishing and hunting she learned from the Miller brothers. But in this instance, she wasn't reminded of them but of her son and the fishing trips they went on together during the summer months. Their favorite spot was at a creek near the farmhouse.

I miss you so much, spud, she would later write in her journal. I think you would like Lev. He laughs at my jokes like you do. Doesn't even roll his eyes when I try out some new puns. Underneath, a sketch of Lev holding the rod and grinning from ear to ear.

It was almost therapeutic to be out here at this point for Abby. Outside of Lev, she lived a relatively solitary lifestyle on the island. She did what was needed and she was damn good at it. She trained. She scouted. She patrolled. Recovery, rescue. Whatever required going to the mainland, Abby was normally the one in charge but whenever she had free time, she was found away from the crowd. Lev had been far better at getting involved. Not only did he study, but he socialized and he thrived. It was more than she could have asked for. When they’d arrived there, he was just a kid and a kid that had been through far more bullshit than he ever deserved. As long as he was happy, Abby was happy.

Swing after swing, she hacked away at the wood. Each swing grew in force and what composure she’d exercised back at the cabin and on the freeway, she didn’t need to have here. Alone in the trees, she could release all of the emotion she’d needed to contain. The snippets she did share with Ellie brought back painful memories. What happened to her and Lev in Santa Barbara was beyond words. In a word where literal fucking monsters roamed and ripped people limb from limb trying to infect what was left of society, the capacity for cruelty that came from survivors far surpassed anything the infected could do. They were at least operating off of basic instinct whereas people had a choice on whether or not to act. Some didn’t. Some did. And the Rattlers had been as close to scum of the fucking Earth as she’d come across.

Abby still bore scars from her time with the Rattlers and not just the mental scars. Her back was littered with long scars going every which way, a display of punishment for what the Rattlers had determined to be difficult behavior from her. Difficult being she wouldn’t let them beat the shit out of Lev or anyone that was more vulnerable than her and couldn’t defend themselves. Difficult being she took a second too long to catch her breath when they had them working all day in the California heat. Difficult being they didn’t like the way she looked in their direction. It didn’t matter. Any opportunity to beat the shit out of her, they would. Belts, batons, a chain, whatever was in reach. Each had left it’s mark accordingly but when the choice had been between her or Lev? She stepped in every single time. No way was she going to let them beat the shit out of a kid.

By the time she had snapped back to reality, she had hacked out a large portion from the body of the tree. “Shit,” she mumbled, looking at the wood chips scattered on the ground around her. Lifting the front of her shirt, she wiped at the layer of sweat that covered her face before letting the fabric drop back down. The sun was creeping farther away and it was time to head back. She’d put together a relatively large pile of branches that would work well enough for logs in the fire pit. Now it was just a matter of getting them back. Too clunky to hold under her arms. An idea popped into mind and she lifted her shirt up once more to remove her belt. Abby kneeled and laid the belt flat, piling up what she had cut onto it before looping one end through the other and holding it tightly enough in place that she could get them from one place to another.

With the hatchet in one hand and logs in the other, she made her way back towards the cabin. The crickets were in full force now as she trudged through the brush, silencing as she walked by before picking their songs up as she passed. It wasn’t too long before she was back in view of the lake and she could make out their figures in the distance. All seemed well. Soon it would be time to cook and couldn’t do that without a fire. With that in mind, she approached the firepit and loosened the belt to allow the wood to tumble out. Looping it back through the loops of her pants and securing it in place, Abby began the task of splitting the wood further into more of a manageable size for the firepit.

[yoursweetheartsrevenge]

Spontaneous

Summary: After a fight with her parents, Michael Gavey’s girlfriend decides to surprise her boyfriend with a visit to his house, but does not get the warm welcome she had hoped for. 

Read on Ao3

Warnings: smut, parental peer pressure, anxiety, MINORS DNI, 18+ 

Word Count: 17.5K+

Author’s Note: This is a sequel to my other Michael Gavey fic, Stressors, but can be read as a stand alone. Thanks to everyone who voted in the 100 followers poll! I wanted to include more from Come as You Are: The Surprising New Science that Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski Ph.D as there is loads of interesting information regarding sex in there. Michael and his lovely girlfriend’s response to sexual stimuli continues to provide interesting and comical plot points. Here it is all in one shot as requested by popular vote! Enjoy!

Spontaneous

She could still hear them arguing downstairs.

Even when she shut the door to her bedroom, careful not to slam it, careful not to seem angry, upset, or hopeless in any sort of way. The heel of her palm rubbed into her eye begging her not to cry. 

She could hear her own breath sucking in and out. 

They were still arguing downstairs. 

Quietly in their sort of way they usually did late at night when she knew she should have been sleeping. This wasn’t the fun sort of arguing that felt secretive. 

This was about her. 

Her life.

Her eyes searched her room looking for comfort among the spelling bee trophies and little mismatched stacks of books overflowing from her shelves. She made her way to her floppy yellow dog plushie on her bed squeezing him tightly. The poor stuffed creature had seen better days. She cuddled into bed touching the edge of her silk pajama shorts. 

Her eyes lulled to her cell phone on her end table. 

They were still arguing. 

He was speed dial number three. 

She found herself pressing it to her ear. 

It rang only twice. 

“Hell-Hello.” His little voice was nervous as if caught in the middle of something.

She was quite aware of her boyfriend’s absence. It had been three long terrible weeks without him in. She suspected she had interrupted his nightly puzzle games. Michael said they aided in keeping his brain stimulated while he grew tired. 

She suspected if Michael Gavey could stay awake 24/7 he would. 

“What puzzle did I interrupt?” She stayed a sniffle as she heard him shuffle. 

“Oh, uh . . . I was doing a crossword.” Her eyes fluttered. Michael Gavey? Doing a crossword? She usually was one to do crosswords in bed.

“A crossword? What is the theme?” It was a distraction from the voices that were growing softer and less tense.  

“Classic literature.” He said stiffly. 

“No, she will just have to deal with the consequences of her actions.” She heard before the soft shout of what she suspected was her parents’ door. 

Those words caused her breathing to hiccup. Her nose sniffled. She felt her body shake as she curled into herself. 

“Oh, my love,” The tone of him eased her even through the static ridden receiver. “What’s the matter?” 

She swallowed hard. 

“I told them. They didn’t take it well.” It was not a serious issue she had imagined. 

She wasn’t pregnant. 

She wasn’t dropping out of Oxford. 

She was simply having doubts. 

Was that not what all young adolescents did? 

“You explained everything we went over?” Her voice mumbled an affirmative sound. He hummed and huffed out. “Then I don’t understand what the issue is. Your plan is solid. The opportunities in linguistics far outweigh those in the field of literature. You are only a year into a program that can easily switch over. The department would be accommodating. I don’t understand.” 

She didn’t either. 

After returning home doubt had prickled at her mind. The books she had loved and studied no longer held value. The Medieval literature class, the translating aspect. The phonetics of language itself held her much tighter. She had looked into some books. Of course she had expressed these doubts to Michael in their long calls good night. He had been rational hearing her out as she explained what she had researched. She had felt more excited by switching majors. 

He only wanted her to be happy. 

“Neither do I.” She said with a sigh. She hugged and kissed her fluffy friend. “Maybe they need some time to think it over. But as you said, I’m an adult and they aren’t paying for my schooling.” Once upon a time her family could have done such a thing, but several lost jobs and projects later they were middle class at best. 

She was simply another scholarship student. 

“And they know your scholarship -”

“Wouldn’t be affected. Yes they know.” She finished. 

There was an unspoken reason they were upset with her. 

It was the one “character quirk” her mum and dad did not care for. 

“You don’t think things through.” 

“You are too irrational.” 

“You change your mind on a whim.” 

“Too spontaneous.” 

“Well they can bugger off.” Michael finally said, more seriously. 

“Michael . . .” She whispered, slightly turned on by his outburst. 

She could have possibly had more in mind to the phone call then just good old fashioned venting. 

“I’m serious, love.” She nearly swooned as he defended her right to change her mind. “You don’t need their approval. Would it be nice? Certainly, but it is your life. I for one can see how excited you are about the challenge of it. You are so very brilliant. You will be exceptional at anything you put that beautiful mind to.” 

She cradled her phone taking in the words. They were much needed after the utter confusion and uncertainty her parents had made her feel tonight. She nearly felt that her summer was ruined by the quiet scolding she received about her future. The more she thought it over the more she realized she should be firm in her decision. 

At least Michael Gavey supported her.

“Beautiful?” She mused. “Just my mind?” 

“More than your mind. You know that, of course.” The smile in his voice was apparent. 

“I think you need to be more clear.” She shifted sitting up properly. The floppy dog stuffie fell to her thigh, bare and flush with the warmth of summer air. “What in particular do you find so beautiful about me?” 

“Everything.” It was the quickest he had ever answered a question that was not related to maths. “Your eyes, your pretty little face, your body . . .” The pause was long. It indicated he may be inclined to continue the conversation how she wanted. 

“Would you like to know . . . what I’m wearing?” Instinctively she pulled at the black lining of her silky shorts. There was a soft shuffle on the other end of the line. 

“Oh, uh, yes. Is this . . . are we . . .” There was that lingering question in his throat, swallowed down by unease. “Would you . . . like to have phone sex?” She was the one smiling now. 

“Yes. I’m feeling a particular way. If that is -” 

“Yes, of course, uh . . . just give me a moment.” She blinked, hearing thump then movement. 

She waited trying to imagine what he might be doing on the other end. Her body shuffled into the thin blush pink sheet. The softness of her mattress certainly soothed her momentarily before she heard in the background thuds followed by a yelp. 

She nearly said his name into the phone, but heard the distant cuss. She heard some footsteps. Her heart thudded in her chest with anticipation and worry. 

“Hi-Hello.” He responded, breathing a bit too hard for her liking. 

“What happened? Are you alright?” Her eyes fluttered feeling the worry settle as she gripped the phone to her ear. 

“Oh . . . uh . . . yes . . . I had to get the lube. I hid it from John. It was in my closet on a high shelf, but . . . some things fell.” Michael had spoken about his older brother before. He was a bit of a bully, but according to her boyfriend’s words ‘I still love him. I suppose.’ She suspected hiding it was to avoid teasing. “I’m ready now.” 

There was a thrill in his voice, nearly giddy with renewed excitement. 

“Are you sure? You aren’t hurt, right?” She let the worry get the best of her. 

“No, not at all.” He paused slightly. She wondered what he was considering. “What are you wearing?” These words eased her. 

“The silk pajamas with the black lining.” They had been worn a few times because she had noticed Michael enjoyed the texture of the silk. He loved touching her more when there was a smoothness to the fabric she wore. She took full advantage of this knowledge. 

“The top has a collar with five buttons.” He noted with a hum. Of course Michael Gavey would note the exact number of buttons on her top. She bit the inside of her lip with an affirmative noise. His breath hitched at this. “Would you mind . . .unbuttoning the top two buttons for me?” The request didn’t surprise her. It was exactly what he would have done if he were here. 

She complied with his request and sat up propped with a few soft pillows. Her left hand held the phone with a struggle as her right parted the buttons. Softly, her hand dipped between her cleavage to fondle her breast pretending it was his hand. Her little noise made the other side of the phone go ragged with his breathing. 

“Are you . . . touching yourself? I’m touching myself.” She was surprised not to hear embarrassment, but a sliver of pride in his voice. 

“Yes, fondling my breast. Thinking it’s your hand, but yours are so much bigger.” Her fingers found her peaked nipple. A noise escaped her that was high pitched and needy at the squeeze of it. 

“Oh are you pinching your nipple?” Again with enthusiasm and excitement. She could possibly hear the pump of the bottle of lube. 

“How did you know?” She nearly laughed. 

“I pay close attention to the noises you make. I could possibly match each sound to what you are doing.” Again he was very prideful in this confession. 

“You are so focussed.” Her hand abandoned her breast to reach under her waist band. “Can you tell what I am doing now?” The giggle bubbled past her lips, biting her lower lip to stop herself from being too noisy. 

“Judging by the mischievous giggle I imagine your hand is teasing your panties.” Darn he was right. “If I was there I’d be palming that perfect mound while making sure your lips were well occupied. Mmmm . . . I miss kissing you. Touching you.” He was nearly panting. 

“Michael . . .” She let out softly. She was no longer teasing herself. Her fingers were stroking her slit. “What . . .describe what you are doing.” 

“Stroking myself. Thinking about you. I’m half hard, but I imagine it won’t be long before . . .” There was a wet sound on the other line followed by a moan. He was stroking faster. 

“Michael . . .do you remember the last time . . .before we left on break.” He merely hummed. “I had your tip . . . in my mouth.” He was panting now. The groan was nearly pained that escaped his lips. Her mouth watered. “If I was there . . .” She didn’t even need to say it. He was probably impossibly erect now. “I’d take you in my mouth,” Her hand pulled away from her panties to trace her lips. “Tease you with my tongue, swirl it,” She mimicked the motion on her fingers. “And suck.” Her mouth wrapped around her two fingers making a wet noise before popping them out of her mouth. 

“Fuck.” He groaned. Her satisfied smile was plastered on her face. “You don’t have to . . .” Ever so polite and understanding as the last time he had told her not to do such a thing. 

“But I want to. It makes me wet to think of your cock in my mouth.” Touching herself again at her pussy affirming the truth in that statement. “I’m wet thinking about it. Don’t you want to make me wet? Don’t you want me to suck your cock?” 

“Yyy-eee-sss.” it was so small and needy, that sound. She could barely take it. She didn’t even think she could describe any further. Michael Gavey might self combust. 

“Are you . . .” Her fingers were inside her pumping and slightly curling trying to mimic his, but they were so short. They couldn’t reach the spots Michael’s long thin fingers could. She whimpered, nearly unsatisfied and frustrated at her attempts. “Close?” 

“Yes, but you’re not.” He was analyzing her again. She wasn’t sure why it turned her on. “Maybe while you would be sucking my cock I could be eating you out. Miss the taste of you.” He breathed out. “Are you paying attention to your clit? You should stroke it. It gets you closer. Imagine I’m sucking it . . .hard.” Her thumb pressed against the sensitive bud. 

She yelped. 

“See, good girl.” Her body leaned backwards. 

She couldn’t hold the phone any longer. Working on herself while hearing Michael pant through the phone didn’t matter. She let a sound escape her throat before she swallowed it down covering her mouth. The wet noise her cunt was making as she moved her fingers in and out was deplorable. Her body convulsed as she tried her best to give off a silent release during her peak. Every muscle untensed, settling her back against the soft pillows and warm bed. Her hand fumbled for the phone. 

“Michael?” Oh God she sounded like she was out of breath. There was silence on the other end. “Michael?” She shifted straighter listening. She thought about calling out for him again, but her breath was still catching up with her. She heard footsteps. 

“Hi, yes, sorry . . . I was . . . cleaning up.” He also sounded breathless. 

“Cleaning up a lot?” Her voice was suddenly sheepish. 

“Yes.” The tingle of pride echoed in his voice. “I have to admit I was a bit backed up these last few days. Didn’t have a moment of down time to . . . take care of myself.” She didn’t like that. 

“You know it is healthy to indulge. You don’t have to wait for me to get you all riled up.” Her face was still flush.

“I know, but I feel better hearing you. Just listening to you was much more pleasant than my hand or any filthy magazine.” She blushed, not able to imagine Michael flipping through those kinds of magazines looking for someone to imagine playing with. She was about to ask a leading question when he spoke up again. “Now,” His tone was a bit dark, a bit seductive. It certainly held her attention. “Be a good girl and make sure you take care of yourself. Use the bathroom, clean yourself up. Don’t neglect your own hygiene, sweetheart. It’s so important to take care of yourself.” She nodded as if he could see her. 

“Of course. As soon as I get off the phone.” Her finger twirled around her hair feeling a bit turned on by the instruction. “This was very enjoyable. Wasn’t it?” A sneaky bit of doubt leaked through.  

“Yes, absolutely. I would like to do this again. I miss you so much, my love.” He sounded closer. It was almost as if she could reach through and take his hand. “Touching you, holding you, kissing you. But please go take care of yourself. Have pleasant dreams, sweetheart.” 

“You too, Michael. I love you.” 

“Love you too. Good night.” 

Click. 

She suckled her lower lip for a moment before doing as Michael insisted. Once she was washing her hands she looked up at herself. The stress had melted away from her features leaving a delighted young woman saturated in love and confidence. She missed him terribly. What she missed most was his acceptance and understanding. 

How could her parents know her for so long yet still not truly understand her? 

How could a math genius she had only known for half a year be so in tune with her he could recognize her movements by noise alone? 

What did they each see when they looked at her?

What did she see when she looked in the mirror? 

Happiness. 

Anxiety. 

Worry. 

Need. 

She needed him. Now more than ever. She barely registered, pulling out her blush pink rolling suitcase. The silver fixtures on it were still cold from lack of use. It had been too small to transfer all her items to her dorm. It was the perfect size for a short getaway. 

It wasn’t as if she hadn’t thought about it. 

Wanting to see Michael constantly gnawed at her mind. He was a two hour train ride from her hometown. It would take a twenty minute cab ride from his town’s station to his residence. She knew this because over spring break she had sent out cookies to him as a way to cheer him up since they were apart. She had been researching the train schedule. She could sleep in a bit. Her parents usually slept until noon anyway so she could avoid them. 

Of course she wouldn’t just run off. 

She’d leave a detailed note. Maybe even an explanation if she could come up with one that wasn’t rude. 

Maybe a simple, off to see Michael Gavey would suffice. 

Her parents adored Michael. They had met him while he helped load her linens, clothing, and other dorm room things into the big caravan her parents toted around. Her dad had talked about ancient calculators with her boyfriend for longer than she deemed necessary. Michael had seemed genuinely fascinated by the scholarly man that he nearly had ignored her hug goodbye. 

She held herself trying to envision holding him again. One last item was needed before she could say she was officially packed. Her secondary school friends had been so elated she had found someone special at Oxford that they had helped her pick a sexy nightie for when she saw him again. Not many of her nightwear was deemed too sexy. Michael Gavey seemed to find everything she wore too sexy. 

“You are so attractive. Anything you put on has the potential to arouse me.” He had told her when she had lamented that nothing she had was appropriate for their passionate nights. 

Despite that insistence she had concluded she wanted to find something that made her feel good. In a locally run lingerie shop she had always dreamed of going to, she found a sheer pink nightie that left not much to the imagination and could barely count as a piece of fabric let alone a night gown. She delicately folded it up before placing it in a side pouch. 

With her suitcase packed with all necessary items for an overnight stay she felt her body ease. 

Relaxation took over her as her breath felt more calm. 

The rolled suitcase was left by her closed bedroom door waiting for her. 

She let herself focus on the anticipation of bringing it to the station, waiting for it to arrive, and finally, FINALLY being able to hold him once more. 

***

The wheel sputtered and spun out as she dragged the case along the concrete platform. The birds chirped excitedly as if they too were going to see Michael Gavey. Just thinking his name made her smile. She settled at a bench to wait for the train. 

She checked her lip gloss more times than she cared to admit. 

It was still pink. 

Still shiny. 

She clapped her pocket mirror close. Her tongue ran over her teeth. Her hand cupped over her mouth as she breathed into it. 

Minty. 

Sweet. 

She sniffed her off the shoulder ribbed pink top. She had put on a delicate amount of perfume. It was a new scent she hoped Michael would like. It wasn’t as if he didn’t like how she smelled, but she had read about pheromones in one of her random finds at the library and perhaps in a women’s magazine about how certain scents could drive a man mad.  

Michael Gavey had a sweet tooth. 

She had tried on several vanilla scent perfumes until she found one that made her smell like a delicious treat too good to resist. Her leg tapped nervously awaiting the train. She didn’t have much time left. She looked over her glossy nails. She had put on a clear coat before she left. She pressed those finger tips at the hems of her shorts, a little ripped and a little too short. Her ass was well hidden, but they curved around her figure so well she was sure Michael would jump her the moment she appeared. 

Her hand pressed to her hot cheek feeling flustered at the idea. Maybe she should have checked her little pink notebook that tracked her cycle before she left. It was very clear she was at that time of the month when her sexual desires were outrageously high. 

Ovulation. 

Another fascinating subject she had read over. She enjoyed her literature, but she liked the art of learning in general. Philosophy. Science. Sex Education. History. Even maths, though she preferred to look over particle formulas rather than playing ask me a sum with her genius boyfriend. 

He only did it to show off anyway. 

Michael Gavey didn’t need to impress her. 

He had managed to impress her nicely with his perfect cock and eager tongue. 

Her thighs squeezed together as the train approached. She shook away her dirty little thoughts of said cock and said tongue focusing on her day’s activity. She couldn’t spend two hours fantasizing about what she wanted to have Michael Gavey do to her. 

Could she? 

She settled down in a seat closest to the door. Her mind went to what her parents might think. The note had been simple. It declared where she was headed and when she would return. She told them she would text upon arrival and departure. She turned her phone in her hand to see she had no missed calls or messages. She wondered if they really cared if she was gone. 

Her parents were very much like Michael. 

Academic and practical. 

It was why she understood his antics and oddities. 

They were familiar to her. Though sometimes she wished they weren’t so level headed. They tried so hard to be perfect. She didn’t need them to be. They could make mistakes. They could be pleasantly imperfect. She told them as much. She never got them to loosen up or be any sort of way. 

Michael was different. 

He liked making her happy. 

He enjoyed a few drinks at the pub or staying up too late together on the weekend having a Lord of the Rings movie marathon. He didn’t even mind when she nerded out too much and had an impromptu reading of her favorite parts. 

She shifted to retrieve her well worn German copy of The Hobbit. 

It was how she had learned German when she and her parents had lived in Germany when she had been a young teenager. It was only a three year stint for her father’s research, but she had picked up the language rather quickly. She felt as though brushing up on her languages would help her parents become endeared to the idea she was changing majors. 

She shuffled in her luggage again for her walkman. The only CD she had taken was a learning Mandarin disc she had been listening to as often as she could. It came with an accompanying book she had in her suitcase as well. Selfishly the goal was to learn it enough to read a very spicy book her friend had recommended from their local book shop. It was only written in Mandarin and featured two boys in the Edo period in Japan falling hopelessly in love. 

That would be a wonderful career, translating books. 

She cozied herself into the seat thinking of her future for only a moment before becoming too engrossed in the book she had read hundreds of times before. The Mandarin CD became background. As she finished the last page of her book, she tucked the copy away then removed her headphones. She watched the scenery go by imagining Michael next to her, asleep on her shoulder. 

“I’d miss my stop if I came out to see you. I’d probably fall asleep.” In the back of her head she thought he might be making excuses, but once they went out to a pub too far from campus and he had fallen asleep in the taxi. 

Michael explained it was the only way his mum got him to sleep as a baby, long car rides. 

She smiled, pressing her cheek to the window. God she missed him. She wondered if everybody felt this way about their first love. The undeniable chemistry that pulled at her heart wanting to have him close every second. Her mind soon realized perhaps it was because of her cycle she was over eager for him. 

It could also be because of the spontaneity of the trip. 

Surprises were a bit of a turn on. 

There had been no sexual stimulus besides the thought of seeing him. 

No rubbing. 

No kissing. 

No whispering sweet nothings. 

And yet . . .

She was a bit embarrassed by her fluttering pussy. 

Maybe it was the bumps in the track. She then realized no such bumps had happened. 

She had to admit to herself she was just horny. 

Her eyelashes covered in dark mascara fluttered as the name of Michael Gavey’s town was spoken aloud. She lifted herself up, feeling the anticipation make her neck flush. When the train stopped she made her way off trying not to seem too giddy. The train station was a bit quaint. Michael had explained his town was small and comfortable. 

Her own town was more of a city these days so the sweet chirp of birds and the emptiness of the station was inviting.

It nearly felt like home. 

***

The inside of the cab smelt of faint cigarette smoke mixed with a clearly over sprayed freshener. It would be a twenty minute cab ride to him. She was curious to see his home. Her mind went over the facts she knew about her boyfriend’s family. 

He had an older brother, John. He still lived at home and was often between jobs. Michael thought he was a bit of an ogre at times, but he did have common sense. 

His mother was a school teacher. She loved to garden and cook. She kept the house clean and tidy. Michael often thought she tried too hard. 

His da was a military man. He had retired years ago from the air force. He worked on meaningless projects as a way for something to do. 

He had an aging spaniel named Pepper. His mum thought he needed a friend during his formative years, but Michael had claimed he was not as enamored with the canine as she was to him. The two brothers still reluctantly took care of little Pepper. She knew secretly Michael loved the little pup. 

The outside of the Gavey residence did not match the Michael Gavey she knew. It was quaint. The lawn was well manicured with bushes so neatly trimmed she thought it was out of a regency novel. On the tree, thick and ancient, was a swing. It was a romantic sight that made her swoon as soon as she exited the cab. She pulled the suitcase from the trunk before handing the driver the fare. As the car left she texted her mum she had arrived at Michael’s. She got a reply back immediately telling her to have fun. 

She was in awe of how picture perfect it looked. 

Even right down to the gravel pathway. 

Nothing was out of place. 

There it was. 

The neurosis that Michael perhaps inherited from his mother, the gardener in the family. The wheels clicked against the perfectly laid stones, the one less than perfect wheel spinning out. The door was a beautiful off white like the shingles of the home minus the pale blue shutters. 

She knocked twice, hard before realizing there was a door bell. 

She rang it once. 

The waiting made her shiver, shoulders folding in. 

She didn’t wait too long. 

A man flung open the door. He was tall, as tall as Michael. He was blonde with his long hair shaved at the sides while most of it was in a bun on his head. He had a square sort of face and jaw. His eyes were the same light blue shade as Michael Gavey’s. 

“Who the fuck are you?” He asked in a tone that verged on abrasive. She suddenly felt so self conscious. 

Her name squeaked from her throat. 

“Michael’s girlfriend.” He laughed at her when she said it. 

“Michael doesn’t have a girlfriend.” He choked out. She noticed he was in sweats and a sleeveless black tank that had wide holes at the sleeves that went down to his navel. “Michael!” He called behind him. The door opened wider. There was thudding sound at the stairs inside. “This girl says she’s your girlfriend! Should I tell her to piss off?” 

She had come so far and this was the welcome she got? 

She was on the verge of tears before she saw what she had come here for. 

Michael was stomping down the white wooden steps. There was a towel in his hand he was using to scrub his floppy hair. His glasses were the silver rimmed ones that made her quiver. But he was wearing . . . lord he was wearing low hanging grey sweats that sank too low on his hips and a white sleeveless top that was CLINGING to his body that was still half wet. 

His eyes settled on her. 

He stopped at the last step. 

She rolled the suitcase closer to her. 

“Hi.” Her voice said softly. 

“What are you doing here?” Michael’s eyes narrowed looking between her and the suitcase. 

“I . . . I thought . . .” Where was her voice? Why did he sound so cross with her? “I wanted to surprise you.” 

What she assumed was his brother John snorted. Michael looked at him sharply. 

“Told you I had a girlfriend. Not my fault if you didn’t believe me.” John held up his hands in defense. 

“Sorry.” He looked her over. “You know you are out of his league. Like completely. Too cute to be with a little prick like him.” 

“His prick isn’t little.” She said without thinking. She saw John’s face flush. Michael grabbed her hand. 

“Come on.” He grabbed her case and went upstairs. 

He nearly tossed the case into what she assumed was his bedroom. His girlfriend followed suit. 

“Why the hell are you here?!’ He was nearly yelling at her. He sounded pissed. Angry even. “You didn’t tell me you were coming. Your parents know you’re here?” She nodded. “You shouldn’t have come.” 

She swallowed hard. Shame built up in her as tears began to form. 

“I’m sorry,” She said softly. “I only wanted to surprise you. I missed you.” 

There was a soft silence that fell between them before he sighed loudly. 

“Fuck, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have shouted.” He looked her over as she sniffled. “Oh love, please don’t cry. I just don’t like surprises is all. And you are here with a suitcase. Did you plan on spending the night? I don’t know if my parents would agree to that.” 

“I don’t know.” She didn’t think she just did. “I knew I wanted to see you so I came and saw you.” It was logical. 

“Fuck, come here,” He didn’t wait for her to actually come to him. He wrapped her in his arms. “I missed you too. More than you know.” She didn’t hug him back. She was still mad at him. “I’m sorry, my love. My darling girl. I’m so sorry. I just  . . . wasn’t expecting you is all.” He snuggled into her neck. She heard him sniff. “You . . . smell really good.” He held her tighter, kissing her neck. She couldn’t help, but giggle. “Fuck you smell so good.” 

“New perfume.” She mumbled into his wet body. She couldn’t stay mad too long. “I’m still mad at you. You yelled at me.” 

“I know. I’m sorry. A million times over. But we promised to . . . communicate more.” He was pausing, holding her, sniffing her, kissing her neck even. “Your perfume is making me . . .” He was flush to her. He was getting hard. “I’m sorry. I know I shouldn’t be feeling like this, but . . .” He was breathing heavily. He was touching and squeezing her bottom. She made a delighted little noise. He took her mouth letting his tongue apologize. “Forgive me. Please forgive me. I’ll never yell again.” 

“Forgiven.” She pulled him to the bed where she was able to continue kissing him while palming his big prick. “Oh,” He wasn’t wearing boxers. “No barriers.” 

“Just got out of the shower when I heard the bell. Didn’t have time to . . . shit. You feel so good.” Her hand had snaked under his grey sweats. “Please don’t stop.” She did, admiring how he was rock hard with a tent in his sweats. “Are you punishing me?” 

“No.” she told him softly. “Do you want my shirt on or off when I suck you off?” 

Michael’s jaw nearly fell slack. She laughed a little too loud and long. 

“I scream at you to leave and you want to . . . suck my cock?” He said the last three words quieter as if his brother were listening. 

“Didn’t I say I wanted to last night?” He swallowed and nodded when she spoke. 

“You didn’t come all this way to suck my cock . . . did you?” He was cute. He didn’t seem quite sure. 

“No, there’s other things I want you to do to me.” She cupped his cheek softly. “And I really did miss you.” Her kiss was sweeter this time. “I might have been too impulsive with my decision to visit, but it is your fault for making me cum so hard last night.” She nibbled at his ear. “Enticed me into doing something silly.” 

“Not silly.” He moaned. 

“Not silly hmm? Have you changed your mind?” She wanted to pull herself apart with how pent up she felt. “So you want me to suck your cock? My little wet mouth, slobbering over this.” She palmed him again. There was a little wet patch there.  He could barely talk. He was breathing and huffing and so out of control. 

“Yes.” A simple enough answer. “But away from the door. It doesn’t lock.” 

She stood up admiring him for a moment. He had puppy dog eyes that were so very pleading. His hand ventured down to the bulge in his sweats adjusting himself. The poor boy must have been so uncomfortable. She held his face with both her hands kissing him and kissing him. His hands found her hips trying to pull her down to straddle him. 

“Don’t get too carried away now.” Her voice whispered. Michael nodded. 

She went around to the other side of the bed, facing away from the door and potential prying eyes. Michael seemed to shift very carefully to position himself on his bed. She was about to kneel down in front of him when he stopped her. At first with his lips. She couldn’t help herself returning the kiss with a soft mix of giggles and sighing. 

“Don’t want you to scrap your knees.” He placed a well worn pillow on the carpet in front of him. She pulled his hair. Michael moaned into her mouth, very unwilling to part from her kisses. 

She ran her hands down his thighs as she lowered herself. He adjusted his glasses first before pulling himself closer to the edge of the bed. She could see him swallowing. His eyes, hardly any blue left, stared down at her with rapt anticipation. Her hands ran up and down his thighs noting how firm they were. Her eyes flashed to his biceps that were a bit more toned than last she saw. 

“You look more muscular.” She noted. 

“I’ve been running every morning with John.” He struggled to get the words out. 

“It’s very pleasing.” Her hand skated across the hardness hidden not well under his sweats. He was gasping. “I shouldn’t make you wait.” Her hands pulled down his pants until he was nude from the waist down. She stroked his length, tipping her finger at his wet tip. 

“Take off your shirt.” He breathed out. His eyes were so black and needy. “Please. I don’t want you to ruin your top. It’s so pretty. You’re so . . . pretty.” She was stroking him so long and hard that he seemed to struggle to speak his mind. 

“I think you just want to see my breasts.” She licked her lips. Michael softly nodded. He seemed to admit to her he was being a filthy baseline animal in this moment, begging, pleading, wanting her more than he possibly ever thought he could. 

She sat back away from him to quickly remove the pink ribbed top. Underneath was a padded pink bra that pushed her tits up. He kept his hands gripped to the edge of his pure white sheets though leaned his head forward to watch her press her head forward. She gently licked and kissed his balls. The small elated sound that escaped from his mouth was enough to make the trip worth it. She suckled one before the other. 

He panted even as she continued to stroke him. 

“Is this okay?” She knew she sounded too sweet for what she was doing. 

Michael Gavey only nodded. 

She knew nobody had done this to him before except her. 

Her fingers tickled the light hairs at the base of him. He was more trimmed than she was used to. Absently she wondered why that was, but the saliva was building up in her mouth. 

“Would it be alright if I spit on it?” She thought he might cry the way he was looking at her. 

“You can spit on me.” The way he said it made her body tingle unexpectedly.

She spit a little on his dick before taking the tip of him in her mouth to suck. He gasped. Who knew Michael Gavey could be so needy? Slowly she took more of him in looking up to make sure he was watching. He wasn’t. His eyes were shut tight. His lips were moving slightly. 

She took him from her mouth. 

“Are you okay?” She was still stroking him. 

“Times forty three - what?” He suddenly looked down. “I . . . uh . . . I was trying not to finish. Math problems.” He ran his finger over her bottom lip. His cock twitched when he touched her. “Is it distracting?” 

“A bit. Could you watch me?” She felt a little ashamed of the request. Michael pushed himself further. 

“You want me to watch you?” It sounded both confused and intrigued all at once. She looked sheepish and flushed by the ordeal. 

“Is that not normal?” 

“No, of course it is. I’ll watch you. I want to watch you.” He ran his hand against her cheek. 

She could tell he had shifted his concentration to her. Her mouth took him back in managing to salivate on him as much as she could. The taste was not unpleasant, but she could feel him harden and thrust into her mouth. Her eyes tried to stay focused on him as well. Michael was doing his best not to be loud, but he couldn’t help panting. His eyes remained on her as she requested. 

A knock came at the door, rapid and hard. 

“W-w-hat” She paused slightly as he spoke, cock still in her mouth. It barely came out as a question or even a word. His hand journeyed to the back of her head resting there. 

“I’m ordering lunch from the Italian place. You two want anything?” John asked through the door. 

“Uh, yeah, sure, just . . . a minute, yea?” Michael’s head was turned toward the door. 

She could practically feel his racing her heart in his cock. 

“Alright, don’t be too long.” John chuckled before steps followed. 

There was a brief silence with Michael not really looking at her. She was still watching him. Her eyes closed as he played and stroked her hair. It was enough encouragement for her to continue sucking him off. Finally he looked down at her. His hand palmed the back of her head pressing her forward. It was not in a forceful way, but comforting. 

It made her want to go faster. 

So she did. 

She slobbered. 

She stroked and squeezed. 

It was strange that hearing his muffled moaning and seeing the pure bliss on her face was making her wet. Actually too wet. One of her hands traveled to her covered mound. It hadn’t seeped through her jeans, but . . . 

She heard a deep moan and felt Michael thrust. 

The cum filled her mouth quickly making her gag and nearly choke. She let him out of her mouth as wetness spilled onto the pillow. She tried to swallow as much as she could, but there was quite a lot and it wasn’t exactly pleasant tasting. 

“Oh fuck!” He whisper shouted. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I didn’t know I was going to . . . fuck I’m sorry. Here let me.” She was still dribbling and coughing. The back of her hand wiped across her mouth. He handed her too many tissues. Quickly he decided he needed to clean her up. “For what it is worth you have the cutest cough.” Her eyelashes fluttered up at him as he wiped her lips and mouth. “I’m sorry.” 

“It’s alright. I made a bit of a mess.” She peered down seeing a bit of white dribble between her breasts. He quickly scooped it up with a tissue. 

“It’s not your fault at all, my love.” He pet her face once more. “I . . . made the mess. I made a mess of you. You just . . . it felt too good. I’ve never had a girl do that to me before. I suppose I was unprepared with how I would feel. How it would make me feel. God it felt so good. I . . . want to thank you.” 

“You don’t have to thank me.” She giggled. “And next time if you tell me when you are cumming I’ll be more prepared.” She moved to help him with his sweats. His eyes seemed very fixated on her. 

“I should return the favor.” He said a blush blooming across his cheeks. “Why don’t you -” 

“Maybe later.” She snapped the waistband of his pants against him as she stood. His face scrunched at the sensation of the elastic. “Your brother might grow impatient and suspicious.” 

“He’s always like that.” Frustration seeped into his tone. “He’s a knob. Let me make you feel good.” He pulled her down to straddle him nuzzling into her neck. “You still smell good. Just mixed with sweat and . . . me I suppose.” She held back a moan as he kissed her neck. She wanted to kiss him, but she knew he might not enjoy tasting himself on her lips. 

“We should clean up. I’m a little hungry.” At that moment her stomach mumbled in response. 

“But I want you.” She could feel his hand against her breast. Her face felt flush. She did want him too. “It’s been so long.” 

“Only a month.” He buried his face between her tits. 

“So long.” He was kissing her, pulling her closer. 

It took everything in her to push him off. 

“Later. You need to eat too. I bet the workout made you hungry this morning.” She looked at him seeing his glasses were foggy. 

“You can kiss me.” He told her. “I wouldn’t mind it.” 

She leaned half way in before touching his cheek. 

“You -” He didn’t wait. He kissed her, hungrier than she thought he might. 

His name fell against her lips. 

Just a moment of kisses wouldn’t hurt. 

***

Michael hit the last step hard. She could see as soon as he saw John texting at the kitchen counter his smile disappeared. She’d never understand the dynamic of siblings being an only child. She was even more confused with the older brother's grin looking between them. 

He only pushed the menu forward toward Michael. 

“Just order two plain pizzas. That’s be enough for us.” John said before returning to his phone to finish a text. 

“She’s lactose intolerant so we have to order something else as well.” She felt a comforting hand against her hip as Michael squeezed her body in a loving gesture. 

“Really?” John sighed, annoyed. “Fine. But you’re calling.” The menu fell off the counter and onto the floor. “Mum won’t be back until after five. She’s picking up Pepper today.” At the mention of Michael’s aging little Cavalier her ears perked up. 

“Oh is something wrong with Pepper?” Michael snatched the menu from the hard tile. 

“Not particularly. She’s had cataract surgery. She’s getting released today.” He leaned forward to kiss her forehead. “I’ll pick something out for us.” He shot a look at John before walking out into the living room and away from the pair of them. 

John was still texting elbows resting on the counter. It was almost as if he were ignoring her. He was still in the same outfit as she saw him in when she had arrived. She was as well, having reclothed herself and brushed her teeth before making her way down stairs. She awkwardly played with the hem of her jeans until he looked up. 

“Thirsty?” He went into the fridge. 

She watched as he placed two plastic water bottles on the counter. John quickly grabbed one. She moved forward pushing out a stool from under the island to sit. She cracked the water bottle open. It was incredibly cold. She nearly choked. He raised his brows, finishing nearly half the bottle in one chug. 

“So,” He said closing the bottle. “What are your intentions with my brother?” 

She was still drinking letting the words hit her softly. 

“Intentions?” She wondered swallowing. 

“Intentions. Are you copying his homework or -” 

“No, of course not!” The idea had never even struck her. “I’m not a maths student.”

“Right, okay,” He laughed at the tiny outburst. “What’s your major then?” 

“Literature.” She paused, pressing her hands around the plastic of the bottle. “Well, linguistics. I’m changing it to linguistics in the fall.” It felt good to admit it. Say it aloud.

“Oh yeah?” He had a smug grin on his face. “Why the change?” 

Her eyes flashed to him unsure why he would ask. 

Neither her parents nor Michael had asked her that. 

Michael has rushed forward to think of reasons how the change would work. 

Her parents had rushed into telling her how it was too impulsive to change majors. 

No one had quite asked her opinion. 

“Oh, um,” She didn’t know why she hesitated. She had the reason in her head. “I like the phonetics of language. The study and structure of how a language is built.” There were more reasons stuck in her head, but she struggled to express them. 

“Oh, so you’re smart.” He was nodding as if he finally understood. 

“Do I not look smart?” She looked down at her appearance as if that would judge the knowledge she had in her brain. 

“No. I just never imagined my brother meeting someone like you at university. Or anyone really.” He peered forward as if to check if Michael was watching them. “When he told me he had a girlfriend I didn’t believe him.” He whispered with a little wink. 

“He’s a very attractive young man. He’s a genius. Who wouldn’t want to be with him?” Now that she said that aloud she realized anyone would certainly and could certainly snatch him up. 

She suspected he was very desirable. 

A pang of jealousy washed through her momentarily. 

“He’s not very social. He gets frustrated easily . . . well . . . argumentative.” he looked her over. She was sure she had a confused expression on her face. “But I suspect he’s more gentle with you. He must really fancy you.” He drank the rest of his water. “He’s never had a girlfriend. Always loved maths more.” 

“It is possible to do both. Be intelligent and have a healthy active sex life.” She didn’t know why she said that. John nearly choked on his water. 

“You okay?” Michael asked John as he entered the kitchen. 

John was still choking. 

She felt awful for causing the scene. The older brother thumped his chest. His eyes were a bit teary. John looked between his brother's inquisitive expression and her sorrowful one. 

“She’s something else, Michael.” He fiddled with his back pocket. “Didn’t break the bank did we with this ‘special’ order?” She could tell she had flustered him with her direct language. 

Michael looked at John sternly watching as he fiddled with the paper around his plastic bottle. Her boyfriend nearly rolled his eyes. He described the lemon chicken dish he had ordered for them to share all while rubbing her back. John watched his brother’s hand clearly holding back a sigh. 

“Wait . . . are you actually going to pay?” Michael asked, pausing slightly in his touch against her back. 

“Yes. I’m going to pay, Michael.” It was John’s turn to roll his eyes. “Just because I don’t have a steady job doesn’t mean I can’t pay my way. Besides, it is the least I can do.” He turned to her. “Sorry I cursed and shouted at you when you arrived. I really didn’t believe Michael when he said he had a girlfriend. I thought he had bribed a girl to make him those cookies on break. They were delicious by the way.” There was a soft wink. 

She nodded her head appreciative for the apology now from both Gavey brothers. 

“I am so glad you liked them, John.” She felt Michael pull her in tighter. “I’m glad to be living proof that Michael is doing more than sulking in the library and class rooms at university.” Michael glanced down at her, giving her a little squeeze. 

“RIght, well, I’m not going to stand around and watch the pair of you make eyes at each other until the food comes.” He reached for his back pocket pulling out money for the food. “Be upstairs.” He barely made eye contact with them as he hustled upstairs. 

“What did you say to him?” Michael wondered counting out the money. 

“Nothing really. He was concerned I was using you for marks.” She shrugged. Michael peered up a question rolling over his face before realizing something. 

“Oh right,” He counted the money out again before leaving it on the counter. “That happened in secondary school. I never fell for it. Those types of girls never interested me.” 

“What type of girls did that sort of thing?” She watched as he opened a drawer pulling out a pen. 

“Pretty girls.” He said absently. 

“I’m not pretty?” 

“No,” His head shot up. “No you are. I meant . . . you know the type that plasters on makeup to feel better about themselves and doesn’t know a lick about anything except clothes and boy bands.” He was back at her side ushering her into the cozy little living area. 

“Girls who flirted first. Didn’t appreciate how hawt your intelligence was.” She pushed his glasses up with the tip of her finger so he could fully see her teasing grin. His mouth was nearly hanging open. 

“Mmmm.” The mumble fell from his mouth. “I suppose.” He moved to settle on the sofa patting the space beside him. She nearly sunk into the well worn space. “Those types of girls never interested me. And the girls that were smart never grabbed my attention. You are perfect.” He moved her chin to face him and gave her a sweet peck on the lips. “So perfect.” 

“I’m not, but maybe for you.” She watched as he reached beside the sofa for a folded over puzzle book. “Oh, should we work on some before the food arrives?” The giddiness in her voice seemed to make Michael kiss her again, deeper and more needy. “Maybe,” Her heart was fluttering. “We shouldn’t,” His hand was against her tit. “Make out,” On her thigh. “Here.” She was panting. 

What had she done to spurn on his desire? 

“You always know what to say to make me . . . feel like devouring you.” He massaged his way between her legs. She pushed it off slightly. 

He whined. 

“Oh come on now. We just had some fun. We can wait.” What was she saying? She was all excited to do so many things to him and here she was being rational. 

“Are you not turned on?” 

Was she not? 

“No, not at the moment.” They were looking at each other. Her hands were settled on his waist. 

“I am.” Michael concluded. “Is it because I yelled at you? Are you still angry with me?” 

“No. If I was angry with you I wouldn’t have sucked your dick.” She could nearly feel the heat in his face. “What is turning you on right now?” 

“Oh, um, your perfume. It still smells very good.” She saw him swallow, Adam’s apple bobbing. “And when you get all cute and excited it makes me . . . want you. And you look very comfortable. And your breasts . . .” His eyes cast down at her chest. She looked down as well. There was no difference then how she looked before. “It’s very cozy in this room.” 

She looked around. No lights were on. It was a bit dark minus the blaring summer sun illuminating the outside. The birds were chirping. She could feel a soft breeze from the window. The sofa was incredibly comfortable. There were blankets laid out across the back. Pillows were about them. 

“I’m just not turned on right now, Michael. I don’t think it is for any reason.” He nearly looked sad. “Also we shouldn’t be having sex in your parents’ sitting room. It’d be rude.” He laughed and kissed her cheek. 

“But we can do crosswords?” 

“Yes. Let’s do crosswords.” 

***

She wasn’t a child. 

There was a part of her that wanted to remind Michael of that fact as he portioned out their plates evenly on pink porcelain plates with bloomed flowers decorating the edges. Another part of her felt her heart skip at his thoughtfulness. He gave her more pasta and less capers. His pretty blue eyes looked up at her from under his glasses. 

He was waiting for approval. 

Her nod was soft. John was standing eating his slice over the pizza box. He had lightly complained about how he was supposed to eat the whole pie. He tucked a piece of green pepper into his mouth, chewing out his words. Michael was ignoring him. 

“Cold pizza is better anyway.” 

Both her and John looked at Michael who seemed to not be concentrating on anything other than his food. 

“You can’t be serious?” His brother asked. “Cold pizza?” 

“I don’t even eat pizza and I know that is not true.” She smiled at John who nodded glad for the agreement. 

Michael finally looked up, peering between his brother and girlfriend. 

“Is this the common ground you have found?” He shoved a small piece of chicken in his mouth. “Idiotic, but whatever gets you two to get on.” 

“We’re not at each other’s throats.” John spat out. “Just think she overshares a bit.” 

“What?” Michael looked at his girlfriend who sheepishly twirled her linguine. “Overshare?” 

She only shrugged. Her lips remained tight. 

“I didn’t hear anything of what you were doing up there.” John was looking at her now. “I’m not nosy. Don’t want to know what you two get up to.” 

She slowly chewed on her food feeling glad to feel the warmth of it. 

“Part of me wishes you would. I’ve had to suffer enough listening to your conquests.” Michael hissed out the last word. 

It was seeing arguments like this that made her thankful to be an only child. 

“Maybe that’s why your girlfriend is so satisfied. You learned from the best.” 

She couldn’t hold her tongue any longer. 

Especially considering the wink. 

“I highly doubt you instructed Michael on how to use his tongue and fingers considering the length of yours.” 

That certainly shut the pair of them up. 

It got her a little kick in her ankles. 

Michael sternly looked at her, eyes so wide she thought they might pop from his head. 

As soon as John was done eating what she suspected was five slices of pizza, he abandoned the box and retreated upstairs. 

“Why did you say that?” Michael asked immediately. 

“Because it is true.” 

“It was rude.” He said it as if it were a part of a regular sort of pre-programmed list of phrases. “But I have to admit I am proud of you for saying it. He needs to be put in his place every once in a while.” 

“Did you really have to listen to him?” She wondered. John was not unattractive. He was Michael’s brother after all. The thought of poor Michael Gavey having to hear lewd noises made her sad for him. “My poor Michael.” She touched the side of his face tugging his hair. She felt him shutter knowing what that little gesture might do. 

They were eating lunch. 

Why was she turned on all of a sudden? 

Was it the fact he told her he was proud of her? 

“Yes. It wasn’t awful. The girls he brought back were vapid cunts, but they were . . . um . . .” He nearly sounded shameful, nearly looked flushed. 

“Michael,” It was a warning sound. “You don’t have to feel ashamed for being attracted to someone else, especially in the past. I’ve had little crushes before too.” She pulled and teased his hair. 

“Yes, but . . . I heard them orgasm. Or what sounded like an orgasm.” His face was fully red now at the thought. “It depended on the girl if it was fake or not.” 

“I don’t fake when I am with you.” She wanted to reassure him. She leaned in to kiss him. His hand squeezed her thigh. “Could never. You always make cum.” That wasn’t necessarily true. 

“That’s not true. There are plenty of times you . . . oh . . . what are you . . .” He breathed out. Her hand was stroking him through his khaki shorts. “Here? Now?” She moved from her stool to stand. It was easier to kiss him this way. “Are you turned on?” 

She didn’t let him talk. She unbuttoned his pants so she could gain access to him. Her lips worked on kisses while her hands worked on arousing him. 

That’s when she heard his stomach grumble. 

She stopped, staring into his eyes. His glasses fogged a bit. 

“Oh we should eat.” She removed her hand from his pants. He only watched as she went to the sink to wash her hands before continuing her own meal. 

“What turned you on?” He finally piped in after five minutes of chewing and eating in silence. 

“Oh, um . . . hmmm . . .” She thought for a moment. “I am not sure. Maybe you saying you were proud of me. I like to be praised.” He knew that. 

“Were you imagining John?” 

“No!” She nearly shouted. “It wasn’t that. I think I just feel in the mood when the moment takes me. It doesn’t need to be a certain type of situation. The randomness of it coming on is exciting. But you seem to need a calm and quiet situation to be aroused.” Her eyes glanced to his covered cock, very unmotivated to act. 

“What can I do to turn you on should the moment take me and not you? That’s what I want to know.” He thought for a moment when she didn’t answer right away. “Call you a good girl? Would that be helpful?” She nodded. That could work. “I’ll try it later when I am in the mood and we aren’t trying to finish lunch while my brother sulks upstairs.” 

**

They heard the tires on the gravel. 

He was reading her one of the phrases in the crossword. They had finished two already moving onto a pop culture one they both struggled with. He laid in her lap. She was playing with his hair. Michael had snuggled into her holding up the rolled up crossword magazine. 

That was until the tires were heard outside. 

His eyes shifted to the door. Michael’s body lifted. She found that her heart was thudding quicker than it had moments earlier. It was later in the afternoon, around the time he had suspected his mum would arrive.  

“She might need help with the groceries.” He had not said it as an incentive for her to get up, but Michael himself had stood rolling the magazine in his hand before stuffing it in with the other abandoned books and magazines beside the sofa. 

She stood following Michael out the door. She felt her muscles tense at the idea of meeting one of the people who were instrumental in Michael’s life. The way Michael spoke about his mother indicated how much he loved her. She appeared to dote on her youngest son being prideful at all of his achievements. 

Education was very important to her as she was a teacher. 

The van was in the driveway. Michael was already walking toward it. She could see the spaniel’s little orange and white head in the foggy back window. It was covered in a cone. A low rumble of a bark echoed from her wide grin. Her little paw padded at the window. 

She was more adorable than Michael described her and much smaller. 

The engine shut off. She stood by the entrance of the house watching, unsure of her place. A woman with short blonde hair came out of the driver’s side. She was a larger woman with a full figure and a round face. It was one of those faces that was always happy to see you. She immediately smiled as Michael approached. Her voice was welcoming to her son who spoke turning his head in his girlfriend’s direction. 

She politely waved as Michael Gavey’s mum met her eyes. 

“Oh, OH!” She was making her way quickly toward her. “Oh, my dear! So lovely to meet you! Can I give you a hug?” The request was hard to say no to. She simply nodded before feeling wrapped in one of the warmest hugs she had ever felt. “It is so good to finally meet you! Oh I am so happy you and my little Michael found each other. We really thought he’d be lonely at university. Let me take a look at you.” She was released from the hug being looked over by the short stocky woman. Her eyes were round, but her smile was identical to Michael’s when she could get him to smile. “You are such a pretty girl. I bet John has been teasing you about being too pretty for a smart boy like Michael.” 

“Some. I’m very sorry for my sudden arrival. I just wanted to surprise him.” She looked off as Michael opened the back seat. He had scooped little Pepper in his arms. She was panting, but found herself ease into the young man’s grasp. 

“Please do not apologize for visiting! I am overjoyed you are here. And you are no trouble, no burden, and if my boys gave you any grief about it, pay them no mind. Michael hates surprises and John I’m sure didn’t think you existed.” She laughed covering her mouth. “I wish I had been here, but I had so many errands to run today. And little Pepper needed to get picked up.” Michael was approaching with the sniffing and whimpering dog. “She did so well at the doctor’s, but has to wear this silly cone.” Her little nose sniffed forward with the absolute cutest sneeze. 

“I suspect there is some medication.” Michael said dryly. 

His mother stated exactly what needed to be done, but Michael’s girlfriend was too focused on how little Pepper’s face was in the enormous cone. Her eyes were so large and sweet. 

“Is it alright to pet her?” Her orange fluffy ears laid perked within the cone. 

“Of course. She is a gentle little soul, but be mindful of her eyes, sweetheart.” His mother stated. She was. Michael's girlfriend only gently rubbed the top of the little dog’s head. 

“She is very cute.” Pepper licked the inside of her wrist, causing her to giggle. 

“And very old.” Michael mumbled. 

“Oh Michael. She’s a springy young thing, doesn’t look a day over two!” His mother scooped the dog gently from her son’s arms. “Would you both be able to bring in the groceries for me? I want to get Pepper settled. Doctor said to watch her.” Pepper was leaning her head forward whimpering. “Oh I know, my darling girl. The cone is heavy, but it is only for a little while.” She spoke more to the dog as she went inside. 

“She is so sweet. Both your dog and Mum.” She sighed following Michael to the trunk of the van. 

“Yes. I am aware.” He sighed. 

“Are you jealous of Pepper?” He handed her some bags of groceries. 

“No. She’s a dog. Not a genius.” He took two in each hand heading with her to the door. 

“Your mum is very nice.” Her attempt to make conversation seemed to cause Michael to hum with a nod. He was reluctant to answer for some reason.

She didn’t continue as they brought in quite a number of groceries that ranged very broadly. Michael’s mother was inside calling John down stairs to assist her in putting in Pepper’s eye drops. Pepper had found her spot in a cozy little pale green worn doggy bed by the television. She was pawing at a worn out rabbit plush. Poor thing kept attempting to bite it, but the cone was too big. 

They had started removing the groceries from the bags, putting them away in their proper locations. Michael remained silent as they worked.

 “Are you upset with me?” 

His eyes fell to her as she spoke. 

“Why would I be upset with you?” He wondered. His hand was on the refrigerator, plastic wrapped steaks in his other hand. 

“I don’t know. You seem . . . off.” She looked him over as he continued to put the refrigerated items away with a shrug. 

“I suppose . . . it is a bit strange to see both of my worlds collide. University girlfriend and my home life.” She paused watching him. “My mum hugged you as if you have always been here. But you haven’t. I . . . maybe, I want you all to myself. Selfish I know but -” She kissed him. He was shocked at first but then wrapped his arms around her to kiss her back. 

“It’s okay to feel like that, Michael.” She told him, holding his face in both hands. “But I’m here. I was in your room. I was on your bed. I know it must seem strange, but I’m sure you will get used to sharing me with others. And don’t be so jealous.” She attempted a wink. The attempt caused Michael to snort. 

“I love you.” He squeezed her tightly and . . . “What are you -” She hadn’t even noticed her hand snake down to palm his covered cock. “No, no. My mum is in the other room.” He was saying it softly because her hand was making him react not in the way he should right now. 

“Oh!” She quickly removed it, taking a large step back from him. “I’m sorry. I forgot. I forgot where I was. Let the moment carry me away.” They peered off to see that John and his mum were struggling to get Pepper to hold still. 

“Michael, please! She’s calmer with you.” His mother called. Pepper whimpered. 

“Let me assist.” He gave her a peck on the lips. “Just wait to . . . indulge yourself until we are in my bedroom. That’s a good rule to follow.” 

She nodded in agreement. 

While acting on sexual desires in public was a draw of sorts she knew that here they had to be a little careful. 

***

She wanted to help with dinner. 

It distracted her from her obvious lewd behavior. Michael separated himself from her in helping John dog proof the house and work on the outside of the home. It turned out that John and Michael were helpful in maintaining the lawn and garden outside. She was slicing potatoes into wedges and making small talk with Michael’s mother. 

It was very mundane, about the weather. 

Hot and sticky these last few days. 

The weather by her was cooler as they lived in a city by the water. 

Did she prefer the city? 

No, she traveled a lot in her youth and her favorite living spaces were always the quiet comfortable ones. 

How was her summer going? 

Well, but incredibly lonely. She missed Michael. 

This offered a coo from Michael’s mum as she pulled her seasoning, a homemade concoction, for the potatoes out. 

She declared she could tell Michael was missing her as well. He enjoyed the night because he spoke to her. She remarked how Michael always liked punctuality even as a child. 

“What was he like as a kid?” She asked. She was moving the potatoes beside the older woman who generously sprinkled the spices into the bowl. 

“Oh, still whip smart. Not much different then he is now. Very shy. He didn’t speak his mind or brag so much about his smarts. He wasn’t exceptionally confident, which worried his dad and I. Did some therapy and he learned to speak up and use his voice. His da would say too much, but the change, oh it was night and day! I’m just so proud of him.” His girlfriend could not help, but grin at the pride on his mother’s face. 

It was very clear she doted on her son. 

“He and John are so different. John’s a bit of a lady’s man. Social and free spirited. Michael is . . . well . . . you know Michael.” Yes she did. “He’s a different sort of fellow. Both my boys are grown now. I still can’t believe that.” She placed the potatoes on the roasting pan before putting it into the oven. “Well, Peter should be returning home soon. We can start with the steaks. Do you prefer a certain temperature on your meat, sweetheart?” 

The conversation moved on as they began cooking more. 

Steaks. Potatoes. Sautéed asparagus. 

Michael and John came in a bit sweaty with dirt under their nails and hands. The mix of the sweat and grass made her apologize to Michael’s mother as she went toward him. Her eyes fluttered with a hopeful signal. She followed Michael upstairs. 

She silently watched him wash off in the bathroom. 

He smiled all the while. 

“Being a naughty girl?” The way he said it made her wrap her arms around him as he bent over scrubbing under his nails. She nuzzled his neck with her nose. “Maybe we shouldn’t. Not while my mum  is down stairs and my dad could be -” 

“Thought you said he retired.” She put in. Her hand ran down over his shirt. God he had abs now, more well defined. 

“He did. He went . . .” Michael paused, shutting off the water. “He went back to work, consulting at the base. He wanted Mum to retire this year and money has been . . . very tight.” She held him tight watching his reflection in the mirror. There was soft sadness on his face. 

“Oh Michael. I’m sorry. I had no idea.” She regretted saying it immediately. He shrugged her off. 

Michael hated feeling pitied. 

“I meant . . . here I’ve been complaining about something that doesn’t matter all summer and you have family issues that are much more important than my little -” 

“No. Please don’t say that.” He held her face in his hands. He hadn’t bothered drying them. “Helping you with your academics was a distraction. I wanted to listen to you. To help you. I love you.” It was a reassurance to make her not feel lesser. 

“But I do want to hear about your life. Bad and good. Please don’t feel as if you have to hide anything from me.” His lips were inching closer as she spoke. “I want to be a part of your life. Here and university.” She felt her eyes close as his lips touched hers, kissing her to make sure she knew she was loved. 

***

She was setting the table with Michael when the next car was heard rolling onto the gravel driveway. He looked at her, nerves widening his eyes. She was aware that Michael’s father was the stricter parent of the two. His mother was bubbly, sweet, and beaming with pride while his father seemed to never be impressed with a single accomplishment. 

He was not an academic led man. Michael’s father was more of a hands on sort of fellow who worked on planes, but had knowledge of engineering and such. He didn’t seem to understand much about Michael’s interests. His mother made up for his father’s disinterest with overbearing pride. 

Michael always told her John had it worse. 

John didn’t go to university. 

John rarely had a job. 

John still lived at home. 

She breathed out nervous. She had changed into a less short and revealing outfit after Michael had finished washing off and after a little handsy making out session in the bathroom. Her tea length lavender dress was a favorite of hers. She peered down at her phone when it vibrated. 

It was a text from her mum.  

“Is everything alright?” Michael asked. His hand was against her back again. She enjoyed how often his hand was there. It was as if he were soaking in her touch before she left. 

“Just my mum asking when I would be coming home.” Her mother had not seemed mad at her for leaving. She suspected she understood how much she had missed Michael and how heartbroken she was about their fight last night. “There is another train in three hours.” She had not expected to stay over. 

“If you need to stay -” He started. 

“Oh no. I wouldn’t ask that of you. I just need a ride to the station. I have the schedule memorized.” 

Pepper padded across the floor to the front door perfectly timing her pace as the door opened. Peter Gavey was a very tall man with blonde hair cropped close to his head. He had on casual dress, jeans and a button up. His eyes were the same shape and color as Michael’s. 

“Sweetheart,” Michael’s mother said. Her husband was bending down to let Pepper lick his hand. “Michael’s girlfriend made a surprise visit. She’ll be joining us for dinner.” 

It was then that she realized what intermediation Michael and his brother felt from their father. Being under Peter Gavey’s gaze made her feel frozen. She had meant to approach him, shake his hand, and introduce herself. Instead she squeezed her wrists and forgot to breathe. 

She managed a hello along with her name. 

He simply nodded his head. 

“Unexpected visit?” He was now looking at Michael. 

“Welcome surprise.” Michael Gavey did not miss a beat. His hand found the small of her back. 

She wished she could always feel his hand there. 

“Good. We are glad to have you.” She watched Michael’s expression as his father spoke. “Michael hasn’t shared enough about you.” He dropped his briefcase by the door. Pepper padded over to Michael for more pets and attention. 

“She helped with dinner. She’s been such a sweetheart.” His mother stated before going over to her husband to lean his things properly in their spot. 

“Are you staying the night, then?” There it was. 

“No I couldn’t -” 

“You aren’t going to let her out into the dark are you, son? How long was your train ride? Michael said you lived too far off to visit.” Peter’s gaze now fell to Michael. 

“Two hours.” She said in response.

She had never seen her boyfriend more unsure and shaken. 

“Oh, no. I wasn’t, but I wasn’t sure if she could stay over.” Michael said slowly. Pepper whimpered for pets. He knelt to give the spaniel ear scratches. 

“She is more than welcome.” Peter opened the fridge to grab a beer. 

“I can get the sheets for the -” His mother began. 

“No need, love. Not going to pretend you pair aren’t already spending nights at each other’s dormitories. Why pretend here?” He downed half the beer as his family watched, unsure what to say. 

Instead she decided to pipe in. 

“Thank you so much, Mr. Gavey.” She was taught to be polite. 

“You’re staying the night?” John asked, stepping off the steps. She suspected he’d been in his room this whole time. “None of my girlfriends got to stay the night.”

“Yet they still did.” Mr. Gavey grumbled, settling down in his seat at the dinner table. 

Michael followed even as Pepper whimpered. Poor little thing never seemed satisfied. She went down to continue her pets, but the dog appeared to only want Michael’s attention. She followed him all the way to the kitchen sink where he washed his hands. Her two front paws pushed hard on his foot panting up at him. 

“She really wants attention.” She giggled. She washed her own hands. 

Michael rolled his eyes. He walked Pepper over to her bowl where John was filling it. She admired how their routine seemed to work no matter how reluctant her boyfriend was. He was softly coaxing her to paper plate instead of her dish. The spaniel struggled, but the two young men eased her little worries. 

She settled into her spot soon joined by Michael and his very attentive hand at her back. She smiled at him politely. The dinner began at first in silence only the sliding of knives against meat, vegetables, and plate. She was chewing on a piece of fat when Michael’s father broke the silence. 

“Michael hasn’t shared how you two met.” It wasn’t a question. It was an urge to share the story. 

“Oh.” She felt a piece of steak fall to her lower lip. She instinctively covered her mouth letting the eyes of the room settle on her. Once she finished chewing she blurted out the story. “I was ill in the beginning of fall and needed notes from Michael’s friend Oliver.” She had not wanted to share it this way. She had wanted to share their meeting from the library onward, but there was something about being in Peter Gavey’s gaze that made her start the story from the beginning. “They were having dinner. I asked Oliver for notes and Michael was there. I thought . . . well . . . I knew of him. Math genius and all, but I didn’t realize how handsome he was.” She felt her face heat up. “Developed a bit of a crush on him.” 

“I didn’t know that.” Michael piped in. 

She had never shared that with Michael. 

“After the holidays I noticed we were both staying in the library late. It didn’t make sense to sit isolated since we were usually the last two there. We spent time together and . . . I realized I liked him quite a bit.” She was looking at Michael now, smiling. She was so glad that she had the courage to settle next to him. 

“How’d he ask you out?” John sputtered out before anyone else could react. 

“I asked him out.” It was a fact. A simple fact that caused John to roll his eyes. 

“Right, of course.” 

“John!” Michael’s mother warned. “I think it is very lovely you took the initiative. Michael’s always been shy with girls.” Her boyfriend immediately seemed very concentrated on his potatoes. 

“Your mother asked me out first.” Peter Gavey put in peering over to his wife. “She was tipsy, but I remember clear as day, her yelling it from across the bar.” He seemed so matter of fact saying it while cutting into his meat. 

“Oh I wasn’t that drunk.” She laughed it off and quickly changed the conversation. “What do your parents do for a living, sweetheart?” Michael’s girlfriend watched as the two brothers looked on not sure what to say at the story. 

“My dad is an anthropologist and my mum is an archaeologist. We moved around a lot when I was younger, but they both took jobs at a university in England so we are rooted at the moment.” As she spoke she could see a hint of a smile from Michael. He was actually quite intrigued by her parents' academic prowess.

“That is incredibly interesting!” His mum was just so adorable. It was hard to imagine crass and shift upper lip Michael being raised by such a beautifully happy little chubby faced woman. “Do you have a favorite place you lived?” 

The conversation went on like that. She explained she very much enjoyed Germany, but Egypt was exciting as well even if their time there was very short. They talked about her academics. When she mentioned she was a literature student, Oliver Quick came up. Michael’s mother didn’t act as if the subject was unwanted. She suspected the older woman didn’t know exactly why her son’s friend was now in the former. She could see Michael stiffen at the mention of his former friend. 

She knew how much Oliver abandoning him for Felix had hurt. He never said it out right, but she could see it whenever they passed Oliver and his new friends or if he was at the same pub. She would politely suggest going somewhere else or keep a look out for him. She’d be sure to wrap him in attention even if they were in public. Him shrugging her off or smiling at her sudden interest in engaging physically usually did the trick. 

A squeeze of her hand was a favorite distraction of his. 

“With your parents being big shot academics I’m sure you are one of those rich girls Michael complains about.” John said. She was grateful for him changing the subject, but he seemed to do it so dramatically. Even with a mouth full of potatoes. 

“Oh, no I’m a scholarship student like Michael.” His hand was on her thigh, a tight reassuring squeeze. It occasionally would be an unpleasant subject, but she was used to the question. “My parents lost money to their research. We aren’t well off anymore. I had to fight for my scholarship and my spot at Oxford. It’s always been a dream of mine to attend the university. Something I share with Michael.” She looked at him smiling. “But I’ll be changing my major in the fall which could -” 

“It won’t. We went over it.” Michael chimed in. “Please don’t worry about it, love.” 

They shared a look that was only for the pair of them. 

She should stop worrying, but it was in her very nature to do so, to not want to disappoint. 

“What are you changing your major to?” Michael’s father piped in, breaking eye contact. 

“Lingustics.” 

“Oh! How exciting! That’s the study of languages right?” She nodded to Michael’s mother. The woman seemed to be excited about everything. “I am sure you will be brilliant at it. I know Michael has probably been a great sounding board for any problems you have. He loves a good puzzle or problem to solve.” 

“He’s an amazing listener. I hope I haven’t been too much of a bother -” 

“You are never a bother.” Michael insisted. 

The conversation ended with more on the summer and what languages she spoke. She would be visiting her mother’s family in France in August. She spoke German and French fluently, but was learning Mandarin. Michael piped in that she also spoke Elvish fluently. John let out a little scoff adding a comment on how of course Michael would date a Lord of the Rings nerd. 

She said something very crass to John in said Elvish language which caused Michael to blush and lightly slap her leg. They shared a giggle before dessert, strawberries and cream. Michael was quick to come to her defense adding that her allergy required no cream for his girlfriend. 

“Give Pepper my cream!” Pepper had been sitting lazily on Michael’s feet as soon as she had finished her dinner. 

“That dog is too spoiled. She doesn’t need -” Michael started. 

“Oh hush,” Michael’s mum said, spooning some cream into a little bowl for the dog. “She has had an ordeal of a week. My baby deserves something sweet. Would you want to feed her, love?” She asked Michael’s girlfriend. 

She did. She wanted Pepper to love her. Or like her at the very least. Michael assisted in placing the bowl to Pepper’s snout. She had a little cream on her finger which Pepper immediately licked off before letting her sweet snout dive into the bowl. 

“She likes being hand fed. She’s so spoiled.” Michael whispered. 

She wasn’t sure why feeling his breath on her neck made her quiver a bit. 

Maybe she wanted to be spoiled by Michael. 

They ate dessert and still spoke of mundane topics in the living room. Michael’s mother seemed not to enjoy dead air. However Michael’s father rarely seemed to speak as his wife spoke to her son’s girlfriend. Michael even spoke up stating his mother was talking too much. Instead she switched up asking Michael and John about the day. John had been searching for jobs. The room was slightly quieter upon that mention. She knew John struggled to get work. He did odd construction jobs and other “off the books” work. 

She distracted herself trying to pet Pepper, but the spaniel whimpered, pawing at Michael’s  exposed knee. He cursed under his breath at her nails scratching him. Even Michael Gavey was not immune to the dog’s large brown eyes. He scooped her up and laid her on his lap. She let out a big yawn. 

“Do you have any pets, love?” Michael’s mother asked. Perhaps she noted how focused her attention was on Pepper. 

“We had a cat for a while in Germany. Black cat named Bastet, but we couldn’t take him when we moved back to England. We left him with my aunt who lives out there..” She missed the little cat who often disappeared under their couch. He would curl up next to her head when she was sleeping. 

“Michael always wanted a cat. Much quieter.” His mother took her empty strawberry watery dish and Michael’s who quietly thanked his mother. His hand seemed permanently glued to Pepper’s head. “But he adores Pepper.” 

“I don’t adore her. I tolerate her.” Michael lied. 

“His first girlfriend.�� John teased messing with his brother’s hair as he walked by. 

“Shut up.” He mumbled under his breath, but still kept his hand petting the little dog. 

“Oh, sweetie.” She kissed his cheek. “I think it is so sweet how much she loves you.” She cuddled not realizing Pepper let out an adorable growl. 

“She gets jealous.” His father hid his laugh. “Pepper loves her mum and her brother above everyone else. You may need to work to gain her tolerance I’m afraid.” 

“I do like challenges.” 

***

“Why do you put on so much lotion?” 

She thought Michael might compliment her silky see through baby doll nightie. Instead he seemed thoroughly confused by her nightly moisturizing routine. While at university they usually just snuggled, fucked, and fell into each others’ arms. She never had her entire nightly routine on display. Never brought her toothbrush or her lotion. She was rubbing her legs down on the edge of his bed. 

His eyes were watching, not tantalized as she hoped. More confused. 

Not even intrigued. 

“Would you like dry prickly legs rubbing up on you?” She asked, eyebrows raised. 

“I never minded before.” He shrugged. 

“You are lucky there are no pillows next to me. I’d be throwing one.” She hid her smile not quite mad enough at him, only a little pissed at the statement. “It’ll smell good too.” 

“Let me be the judge.” He nearly pounced in her direction. She giggled shocked as he sniffed and grabbed her torso. “Fuck, you’re right.”  His hand ran down her thigh. “I forgot to tell you how beautiful you look.” Beautiful. She loved when he called her that. “This night gown,” The way he said the words made her outfit sound extremely old. “I can see your . . .” He swallowed looking down. It was very clear Michael could see her lacey pink panties through the sheer pink polka dot fabric.

“Why are you being coy?” She whispered. Her lips traveled down his neck. “We are alone in your bedroom.” 

“But,” He struggled to speak, especially as his hands were rubbing her thighs. “My parents are in the next room.” He was breathing hard. 

She decided to stop. Her hand stroked Michael’s face before kissing him once on the lips. 

“Okay.” Her thumb wiped across his lip. “I don’t want to pressure you into something you aren’t comfortable with. If you feel like doing anything later let me know. We can just snuggle.” She felt him smile under her thumb. “I love you, Michael.” 

He grabbed her pulling her down to the bed until they were squeezed on his full size bed. He wiggled into the covers nearly tucking her in. Michael repeatedly asked if she was comfortable. 

Too hot? 

Too cold? 

Too many blankets? 

Were the pillows comfortable? 

Did she need anything? 

“Yes.” She responded. Her arms wrapped around him. Her head buried into his chest. His pajamas consisted of his bright red boxers and a white cotton t-shirt. “You. Just,” She didn’t have to finish. He was holding her to his chest. “Yes. Like that.” His heart was beating a little quicker as she pressed her ear to him. 

“Can’t believe there is a girl in my bed.” 

“Not just any girl either. Your girlfriend, Michael Gavey.” She glanced up at him. He took his glasses off reaching over to place them on the night stand beside her. Oh. His eyes. His face. This would be a difficult night.

 He turned her around so he could spoon her. 

She snuggled into him feeling his warm strong arms. 

“Sweet dreams, my love.” 

**

His large hands were fondling her breasts in the middle of the night. 

The room was quiet minus her own sudden breathe. Behind her she could feel his developing hardness as he thrust lazily behind her. It was the sudden grabbing of her tits that woke her. 

“Michael?” He had never grabbed her in a sleepy daze like this. “Michael?” She reached behind her to tug at Michael’s hair. His lips were on her neck. “Michael?” 

“Hmmm.” He mumbled into her skin. “Sorry. I . . .fuck . . . can I?” His hands were on her hips now. “I really need you.” Her eyes watered at how much he seemed to mean those words. His hand had snaked into her panties. “I can feel you want me. You’re getting wet.” He focused on her clit stroking it slowly as if easing her desire out. 

She found his spontaneous need for her so incredibly hot. 

“I’ll be quiet.” She told him. 

He slowed as if realizing where he was. 

“There’s a condom in the drawer.” He pointed out. “I always fantasized about you in my bed. After our calls I would . . . think about what I’d do if you were here, with me. And now you are.” 

She reached over finding the condom easily. He snatched it from her as soon as it was close enough. 

God he was so desperate. 

“I’ll fuck you from behind. Spooning.” It wasn’t a question. It was a declaration. He had removed his hands from her. She didn’t realize she had whimpered until she heard him chuckle. “Don’t worry, my darling. I’ll be inside you soon. Just need to get this on.” 

She shifted shimming out of her panties to make it easier for him. There was sleepiness still in her eyes. They were slowly adjusting to the dark. She could hear birds outside chirping in the darkness. There was a little pressure as he entered her cunt from behind. She squirmed. He pulled out. 

“I don’t want to hurt you. Do you need to be wetter?” 

His hands were already working in her. They were wet with saliva teasing her. He found her clit with ease stroking her with his thumb. She bucked her hips. Her lips breathed out, sighing in satisfaction. His lips were against her neck kissing her, sucking a little too hard. 

“Not too . . . ooooooo, Mi-ch-eal.” His hand was on her mouth. 

She could feel his cock enter her, thrusting into her cunt. 

He lifted her leg to get deeper. His hand slowly slid down from her mouth to her neck. The little squeeze there made her squeal. It was in time with his thrusts. She thrust her bottom toward him encouraging him to fuck her faster. His hands went to her breasts fondling them. Her nipples were so hard and sensitive. 

He was panting, pushing into her. One of his hands went down to pay attention to her clit. It wasn’t long before she felt her peak approach her. Her body began to shake. She bit her lip to make sure she wasn’t loud. The little wanting whimper slipped from her throat when he grazed that spot inside her over and over and over again. Holding her cries made her shake more. 

She felt him hold her. 

“It’s okay. I’m here.” He whispered in her ear as she fell apart. 

It took him a few more thrusts before she heard his little cry signaling he had finished. She felt him gently hug her from behind as his cock softened. She was bleary eyed from the experience. He treated her so softly with kisses on her neck that were ticklish and wet. 

“I’ll walk you to the bathroom.” He insisted. 

She was sure Michael must have read something on peeing after sex since he seemed so determined to make sure she looked after herself. They shifted away from each other. She felt terribly lonely not feeling him inside her, but she did love when he took care of her. He discarded the condom pulling himself together. 

She didn’t even bother putting her panties back on. 

The pair of them stumbled in the dark hallway. He stroked her waist directing her toward the bathroom. Too scared to put on the light she felt in the dark as Michael Gavey stood like a knight outside the door. 

“No,” She heard a harsh whisper through the door as she finished her business. “She’s in there. Just go back.” She didn’t hear the rest of the conversation as she washed her hands. 

When she came out she saw John standing in front of Michael. 

“Why can’t I - oh shit.” His eyes were on her. Michael immediately shielded his brother’s eyesight from his girlfriend with his body. “Shit I didn’t know she was dressed like -” 

“Good night, John.” Michael pulled her along back to his bedroom. “Fuck I’ll never hear the end of this.” She didn’t need to see her boyfriend to know he was rubbing his temple. 

“It’s alright.” She leaned forward hoping to touch his cheek but instead felt his nose and lips. “I’m sure he didn’t get that good of a look.” 

“Your pussy was out.” His eyes cast down at her. “And your night gown is see through. He got enough of a look.” He dragged her down onto the bed with him. “He’ll be making weird jokes and innuendos and -” 

“So, let him. You have me.” She hugged onto him. “Isn’t that all that matters?” 

Even in the dark she could see her boyfriend’s shit eating grin as he held her close enough to cuddle. 

***

She woke up giggling at the wet kisses on her thighs. Her hand instinctively went between her legs. It was nearly a surprise to feel her hand meet Michael Gavey’s hair. Usually she was dreaming of such an occurrence, but he was there letting his lips softly work on her sensitive inner thighs. 

“Oh!” She was too loud. She knew this. 

He looked up at her, no glasses, looking so very soft in the rising glow of the yellow sun. 

“Promise me you can keep quiet.” Her head only nodded, though she wasn’t sure if she could fulfill that promise.

She would do her very best. 

The sheer skirt of the baby doll was hiked up to her belly giving him access to what he desired most. Her thighs were spread for him. It wasn’t long before his mouth was on her cunt, nearly drooling over her. Her teeth clenched as her back arched at the sensation. 

God she missed him. 

It was such a wonderful sensation to have lips against her tender sex working and kissing her into submission. She’d do anything to feel him there permanently. At least that was what she was thinking at that moment. Everything washed away from her except Michael’s lips suckling her clit. 

The tip of his tongue worked inside her. 

Fuck. 

She really wanted to cry out. 

Her hand shot to her mouth holding back every desperate cry that wanted to escape from her body. 

It was so unfair that he was so good at this. 

His hand held her thighs working her deeper. 

Her hand pulled at his hair hoping he was enjoying the sensation as much as her. 

Even Michael Gavey couldn’t help himself. He moaned into her cunt causing a vibration that would have caused a loud vigorous FUCK if it wasn’t early in the morning in his childhood home with his immediate family somewhere nearby. 

She heard a soft clawing at the door. 

The mumbled half hearted bark signaled it was Pepper. 

The thought of the dog fell from her mind the moment she felt his tongue wag deeper insideher and heard the sloppy wet smacks of suckling on her cunt. 

He was trying to kill her. 

He was trying his hardest to make her cum so hard she had to scream. 

Instead she bucked her hips up at his nose letting the pointed tip graze her clit in the way she liked. Her peak was approaching like a freight train, but she wanted to be good. 

She only let out a sigh when she came down. 

“Hmmm.” He hummed with one final smacking kiss to her cunt. “Thought you were going to squirt.” He ran his finger over her raw sensitive lips. She quivered. 

“You didn’t let me shout.” She said a bit out of breath. 

“Oh.” He contemplated that notion in his head. “You enjoy being loud?” 

“Yes. It’s a release.” She didn’t like holding anything inside her. Feelings or her pleasure. “I came though right?” 

“Yes. Thank you.” He sucked his lips in. 

More scratches. 

“Oh let her in.” She insisted. “I probably took her space on the bed.” 

“She’s not supposed to be up here.” Michael handed her panties to her. She wiggled them on. “Her hips are not the best. She usually sleeps downstairs.” 

“Oh I would have thought she cuddled with you.” She smiled at Michael as he debated on the edge of the bed what to do about Pepper. 

“When she was a puppy and had stronger legs, yes. She’d sleep here even when I was gone.” She could picture it. Little baby Pepper snuggled against Michael’s chest. “Fuck. I should make sure she’s okay.” He quickly got up to open the door. 

Michael Gavey really did love his dog. 

Pepper hopped in, cone still occupying her head. Her long orangey tan tail swept back and forth happily upon seeing her companion. The hair made a breeze. Her eyes looked about the room landing on Michael’s girlfriend in his bed. 

The little spaniel nearly side eyed her. 

“Oh behave. Come on.” He scooped her up. Michael gave her a peck on the dog’s forehead. Pepper’s tail wagged harder. “We all know what you want.” He nearly tossed her on the bed. 

She padded onto the mattress sniffing Michael’s girlfriend’s feet. Her wet nose tickled her. She sat up offering her hand to the dog. Pepper gave a little sniff then sneezed with a shake of her head. Her tongue hung out as Michael settled himself on the bed. She wandered over to Michael for pets. 

“Does she like me?” 

“She likes you well enough.” He laid back. Pepper climbed onto Michael’s chest. He sighed as she settled in. “She always wants to be as close to me as possible.” 

“Well your chest is warm.” Her fingers tickled his chest. Pepper only looked at her with another side eye. “And you are very soft, who wouldn’t want to be cuddled next to you.” She settled beside him, still being looked at by Pepper. 

“Not many people.” He wrapped an arm around her kissing her forehead. “But I don’t want anyone else beside you.” 

Finally Pepper seemed to settle down on his chest. 

“My train won’t be round for a while. Should I read to you?” She leaned over to the night stand where her German copying of The Hobbit was. She thumbed through to where she had left off. 

“It’s in German.” 

“Yes, obviously.” She stated with a roll of her eyes. “Maybe you’ll absorb something.” 

“Will you at least play with my hair?” The way he asked made him sound like a child. Pepper moved from his chest to settle between the pair of them. She licked Michael’s girlfriend’s hand and nudged her. 

She nearly gasped at the validation. 

“Of course, but you will be battling for my attention.” Her hand was giving Pepper scratches. 

His nose nudged at her arm as if he was a whimpering puppy too. 

She had enough attention for the pair of them. 

***

“Please come back, sweetheart.” It was the tightest hug she had ever experienced. “Anytime. Any holiday. Our home is yours” 

One last squeeze. 

One last thank you so much for having me. 

A wave to his father. 

A wave back from his father sat at the dining table with the paper and coffee. 

His brother gave an awkward wave from the couch. 

“Sorry if I was a bit hard on you.” John didn’t bother getting off the couch. He called his apology over his shoulder as she stood with her suitcase at her feet. “Wanted to make sure you were good enough for my baby brother.” It was then that he grew more animated leaning forward over the back of the couch to playfully punch Michael in the arm. 

“Hey. She is more than satisfactory. I told you how much I liked her.” He rubbed his arm. 

“Yeah, but I thought you made up how perfect she was.” 

She was in white converse high tops, a white skirt, and a v-neck white top that showcased her cleavage, only a small bit. There was no doubt she looked good. Michael had his hands all over her until they had gotten downstairs. 

“Thank you for letting me borrow the car, Mum, but,” Michael looked his girlfriend over. “I have a little surprise planned. Come on.” She gave Pepper one more pat before leaving.

A surprise? 

She was grinning. 

“You have fun. Don’t miss the train, love.” 

Michael held her hand walking her down the street. It was so warm out. She nearly felt serene. She kept asking her boyfriend where they were headed. He refused to answer. He seemed really keen on wanting to surprise her. 

He held her hand the whole walk out of his neighborhood. 

Even if it was warm and sweaty in the summer air she never wanted to part from him. Her rolling case thudded as they crossed the street into a quaint little spread of shops. She looked about seeing the shops readying to open. 

“You see that sign up ahead.” He pointed out a little wooden sign that looked distressed. “It’s an outdoor cafe and bookshop.” As they approached she could see the painted vines on the sign and the round door leading inside. “Fantasy themed. I thought you might enjoy a cuppa before we head off.” His hand moved to the small of her back. 

“Oh Michael. It’s adorable.” 

He pulled out a chair at one of the vacant tables outside. It was iron rodded with such a beautiful design. A waitress came asking for their orders. She quickly gazed at the menu deciding on a fancier tea order of blood orange tea while Michael had his usual. 

“I feel awful about yesterday.” He started taking her hand. “Please know that I didn’t mean to make you feel unwanted.” He rubbed her knuckles. “I always want you. Even if I don’t seem that way. Sometimes I may seem overwhelmed or uninterested, but know that is not always how I feel.” 

“I know Michael. I just wanted to see you.” She squeezed his hand. 

“I . . . um . . . may not be the best boyfriend yet . . . but I will learn. I’m learning. You know I love to learn. To do . . . all sorts of things.” He looked down for a moment. She knew what he was thinking of. Naughty boy. “But I wanted to give you something to show I was thinking of you.” He reached into his khaki shorts pocket. It was a long maroon box. He snapped it open. Inside was a daisy chain bracelet. “I was reading daisies that represent joy and purity. Happiness. That’s what you are to me. Always remember that.” 

She felt a lump in her throat. 

Her wrist extended immediately, wordlessly. 

Sometimes she didn’t feel that way, but knowing that’s how Michael thought of her, well, that made it easier to feel that way about herself. 

Once it was clasped onto her wrist she lunged over the table. 

Spontaneously smothering him with an onslaught of kisses.

[peaceandlove26]

whats your thought process behind the ships you do? like aj and tempest! i love the different ships and next gens you do, its so unique and pretty :] also i love your art haha

if im being honest i just mash ponies together in my head until something makes me go OH CUTE!!! i like to do ships that are less popular (with the exception of twiluna cause i thiiink that’s relatively popular?) cause i think it’s fun!

of course for twiluna i am the #1 twiluna truther i have an au in my head where twilight and luna become friends through twilight’s dreams and twilight is the one to free her from the moon not realizing that shes become nightmare moon (the luna in her dreams isnt aware of that either!) and with their friendship twilight is able to help her return to her normal self. after that luna becomes a part of the main group and lives with twilight in the library and they fall in looooove

for pinkie and sunburst, i think theyre two super sweet ponies who are very enthusiastic and passionate about their respective interests, and would totally adore that about each other. pinkie could also help sunburst come out of his shell and throw him nerdy dnd parties or something lol because she loves her dorky husband. the appeal of this ship is similar to twipie i think

applejack and tempest feels like a very sweet and gentle relationship to me. i think they’d both value each other very much as a source of stability and comfort. i think applejack could really help tempest heal and love herself, and i think tempest’s headstrong nature would gel really well with applejack. i also think tempest would love living at sweet apple acres cause it’s away from most other ponies lol so she only has to socialize when she wants to

fluttershy and trixie is definitely Out There but i truly believe they are something special. my backstory for them is that fluttershy wanted to go see some rare creature in the same area that trixie was traveling to for a magic show so they decided to travel together, and fluttershy’s unrelenting kindness caused trixie to be a more genuine and open version of herself with fluttershy. they have something weird going on for a while but eventually start dating for reals. fluttershy admires trixie’s confidence and also finds her really funny, and trixie of course adores fluttershy’s sweetness and outlook on life. they probably clash sometimes but ultimately love each other very much. i imagine trixie still travels a lot but always returns to fluttershy because that’s her home

rainbow dash and harshwhinny is just silly and cute i think. rainbow probably had a huge stupid crush on harshwhinny from the moment they met and harshwhinny ended up really liking her too. rainbow likes older women or something idk

rarity and maud i love because of their friends forever comic!!! it really showcased how sweet they could be together. i can’t really explain it better than just Read It It’s Cute

[chil-aglia]

FTNTH & WFI Crossover!

An Alternate Disaster

Chapter 4

WFI Donnie belongs to @cimmerian1275 (who also beta read this)

We decided, hey, let’s make a crossover with our double mutated versions of Leo and Donnie, because we love some disaster twins' shenanigans!

We also decided to call them Sword and a Sparrow (SAAS)

Sadly, can’t tag it, won’t show up for some reason

Constant yelling. Constant staring. Leo felt trapped, even when he was home. He was suffocating with not just this new transformation of his body, but from his sudden responsibilities being the leader.

Why? Why did his father have to throw that upon him out of nowhere? He was doing fine as a teammate. Raph was way better at the leader role, he’s been doing it for years. 

“And then you took it all away from him.”

Zarynthia spoke coldly, even when Leo was unconscious, she still hovered, still whispered to him. And Leo couldn’t do anything about it, not physically or mentally. He was going to meet his breaking point if this didn’t stop. 

Or maybe… he already has reached that point?

Distant yelling caught him by surprise, faint but still audible. 

It was Raph. But why… why was he yelling?

No wait. Leo remembered now. The argument that had him run away like a coward. 

It was his fault.

-----

The lair echoed with tension.

Leo sat curled on a beanbag in the family room, a comic book sagging in his hands, the colors dull compared to the storm inside his mind. His tail flicked restlessly, betraying every ounce of agitation crawling under his skin. He flipped a page he wasn’t reading. It was the same comic. The same panels. Over and over.

Two weeks. It had been two weeks since everything changed.

Two weeks since his body had shifted into something… other. Stronger, sure—but unfamiliar. Alien. The others didn’t say it outright, but Leo saw it. In their glances. In how they hesitated. How they spoke to him just a little more carefully, a little more slowly. Like he was unstable.

And maybe they were right.

"You’re a freak, Leo. You don’t need them.”

Zarynthia’s voice slithered into his mind, poison-smooth and insistent.

He growled and slapped the side of his head. “Shut up…”

A low laugh echoed in his skull, curling around his thoughts like smoke.

“Accept who you are now.”

“Knock it off…”

“You are no longer one of them.”

Shut up—

He gritted his teeth, slamming the comic to the floor. His hands trembled. His breathing quickened.

A hand suddenly landed on his shoulder.

Leo snapped.

He roared, spinning and launching himself off the beanbag in one fluid motion. He tackled the figure behind him, pinning them hard to the floor. His claws dug into flesh. One hand gripped a throat.

“Leo!” a panicked voice choked out.

Mikey.

Leo froze.

Eyes wide, his claw still trembling in place around his baby brother’s neck. Mikey was trembling, terrified, his pupils blown wide with panic.

Leo’s heart dropped into his stomach. “M… Mikey…?”

Before he could fully let go, strong arms yanked him backward and off his brother.

“The hell you doin’?!” Raph’s voice thundered, his face twisted in disbelief and fury.

“I—I didn’t mean—” Leo stammered.

“You could’ve hurt him! What were you thinking?!”

Behind Raph, Donnie had rushed to Mikey’s side, gently inspecting him. Mikey flinched even under Donnie’s careful touch, still staring at Leo like he was something unknown. Something dangerous.

Leo’s gut twisted. Mikey was afraid of him.

“I didn’t mean to…” He took a hesitant step forward. “Mikey, I would never—”

But Mikey flinched again.

Raph stepped in front of him. “Look, I don’t know what your deal is.” He said, voice low, biting. “But this whole ‘new you’ thing? It’s not an excuse to turn into a monster.”

Monster.

There it was.

Leo’s face hardened. “A monster, huh? That’s what you think?”

“No, I didn’t—”

“No, say it louder, Raph. Let everyone hear it. Let Mikey hear it, since I clearly tried to choke him.” His voice raised, sharp and bitter. His tail lashed behind him like a whip, his shell spines lifting in warning.

Above them, the pipes began to rattle.

Donnie noticed first, glancing up. “Leo.” He said cautiously, “You’re taking this the wrong way.”

Leo snapped at him. “Don’t even try, Don.”

The rattling grew louder.

“Leo—” Mikey tried again.

“No! Everyone just—”

CRACK!

A deafening burst exploded from the kitchen. All four of them jumped, baffled as they looked towards the kitchen, water spraying from a burst pipe, flooding the floor in seconds.

Donnie groaned. “Great. Perfect. I just fixed all that.”

Leo stared at the mess. His ears rang with the sound of bursting metal and rushing water. His mind spun.

He’d done that. That pressure, that rage, it had built up and—

His fault. Again.

Raph opened his mouth to ask what just happened, but Leo didn’t wait to hear it. “I get it.” He said, voice cold, distant. “I’m not welcome here right now.”

He stormed past them, grabbing his katanas without a glance.

“Leo, where are you going?” Raph barked.

“Out!”

He didn’t stop. Heading directly for the exit of the tunnels, his feet stomped against the concrete floor, and maybe… just maybe he had hoped his brothers ran after him. To bring him back home.

They didn’t.

Leo’s breath hitched as he marched through the darkness. His hands were clenched, his vision burning. His thoughts kept spinning, kept spiraling—

“You don’t need them. You have me after all.”

Zarynthia’s voice, smug, soft.

Leo scoffed bitterly, dragging a hand down his face.

“Yeah…” He muttered. “That’s what annoys me.”

-----

This is so gross.

Donnie winced, trying not to gag when he touched the wet blood dripping from Leo’s unconscious form. The sharp metallic tang of it was even stronger than usual with his heightened sense of smell, he scrunched up his nose out of disgust and kept his jaw shut tight so that he didn't have to taste it in the air as well. He was glad that Leo had some medical supplies in his pouch, taking out a cloth to use as he thoroughly cleaned away the red essence that stained his brother's green skin.

Donnie struggled to believe it. Leo, regardless if he wasn’t his actual home dimensional twin or not, killed someone. Viciously clawing out that mermaid's throat like it was nothing. Completely merciless.

He knew that wasn’t Leo. Not entirely. He was being controlled then by that goddess he had briefly talked about, which was obvious given how Donnie clearly detected another voice overlapping Leo’s when he spoke.

Plus he knew Leo wouldn’t voluntarily act like that… right? His hand stilled mid-wipe, vaguely reminded of the new animalistic and instinctual actions he was sometimes subjected to now, he still had moments where he struggled to control his new form. Perhaps it was similar in a way… they seemed to be more alike than Donnie previously thought.

He narrowed his eyes in concentration, moving Leo’s head to the side slightly to wipe the blood off his face. Morbidly, it made it seem like he had even more extra red crescent stripes than he really did. He took a moment to pause, carefully studying him. He seemed peaceful, but Donnie could see it clearly.

He was tired.

He could spot dark eye bags under his eyes that Donnie was finally able to notice from the close proximity. Leo’s brows were a little knitted together, as though he was scowling lightly in his sleep. He just looked exhausted. Which was odd, Donnie knew Leo was the exact opposite of getting tired, he was always babbling about nonsense, getting into trouble with others, always a bright and energetic personality.

He never seemed to have an off switch.

And yet, here he was. Unconscious, probably getting the most sleep he’s ever had in awhile too. Donnie recalled that Leo said he was now the leader of the Mad Dogs, and while that surprised Donnie, he didn’t think that being leader should be this tiring, right?

Raph always seemed fine. Granted, a little ticked off from time to time. But he didn’t always look this tired. Drained.

Leo did.

“What have you gone through to become like… this?” He mumbled under his breath, sighing in relief once he was done cleaning up the splattered blood and discarded the cloth, although he could still smell a hint of it in the air. He wondered why Leo had passed out, he looked fine a moment ago when he entered the portal.

Perhaps the mysticism took a lot out of him. 

He clicked his tongue and slowly stood to stretch, getting impatient as to what was taking Leo’s brothers so long to arrive after he'd activated that panic button. He rolled the ache out of his shoulders that he'd developed while leaning over to care for his twin, stretching his arms back, wings subconsciously following their movement and flaring out as well. Surely they should be here by now, it had been close to an hour since Donnie sent out that distress signal to them.

…

Leo’s brothers, technically his brothers too. Donnie’s hand automatically flew to where he usually wore the cloaking brooch, the brooch that kept his second mutation secret from his family "Ah wait, no cloaking brooch…” He’d left it behind in his dimension, in his lab, foolishly hoping it wouldn’t even be needed.

“But then again! These technically aren't my brothers so it's... fine… it’s fine." he gritted out, teeth grinding on the last two words. He was in another dimension after all, and these brothers were already used to one disfigured sibling, so why not one more? They’d kept Leo around, afterall.

Deciding there wasn’t much he could do for himself or Leo right now, perhaps he could figure out how to possibly sync his tech up to this dimension. Surely it would be simple.

Crouching beside Leo to sit on his haunches, he took out a purple phone from his belt pouch, quickly typing in the password and unlocking the device as he hummed to himself. It only took a brief moment for his eyes to adjust to the sudden light source after he quickly dimmed the brightness.

His posture hunched over like he was imitating a gargoyle, phone held up to his face as the light from the screen bounced off him. He was determined to figure out… well anything that could be helpful for him.

Come on… aha, okay!

Interestingly, the date displayed was entirely different from what it was in his dimension.

Placing a clawed finger under his chin in thought and pulling the information from his phone screen and projecting it to his tech brace, he was seeing the differences between this world and his own. At least that helped him out with multiple data points to form a solid conclusion, confirming that this was indeed Leo’s dimension.

Before Donnie could even process more incoming data, he noticed something flickering from the corner of his vision. His sharper eyes quickly spotted it, and a loud noise echoed across the shadowed rooftops to his position. He jumped up slightly in shock as he whipped around, startled to see multiple silhouettes approaching from the next rooftop over… his brothers.

Or at least, a version of his brothers, they were actually Leo’s. And his alternate self?

“Oh my banana pancakes.” He muttered to himself, eyes widening as his wings fluffed up excitedly and tail beginning to flick side to side in conflicting anxiety. He quickly pulled his goggles down to scan as much of them as he could as they came closer, mentally noting down all the differences he glimpsed at.

“Leo?” Raph uttered, gasping when he saw the unconscious slider laying unprotected and vulnerable on the ground, a looming winged silhouette hunched over it. “Leo! You..what did you do to him?!” Raph snarled, his arms were engulfed in red mystic energy as he stormed forward.

Donnie paused, puzzled at the sudden hostility, where was that coming from? Surely his other dimensional brothers would notice his familiar resemblance.

He gazed up at the sky, seeing that while the sun was still rising and the horizon was beginning to turn grey, it was still much too dark for all of him to be seen. And oh– right, they also can't see in the dark like him.

“W-wait, wait!”

He didn’t get to say anything else when Raph lunged at him, aiming to pound him into the concrete of the roof. Donnie quickly jumped back, powerful wings propelling him backwards from the attack as he instinctively took out his tech bō to defend himself. He inhaled sharply when his arms absorbed the impact and began tingling, tech bō blocking the second punch from Raph that came a lot faster than he expected. 

“Would you just—!”

He was cut off when Raph shoved him back, Donnie huffed and his tail lashed wildly to keep him balanced and upright as he retreated, trying to give himself a chance to recover when he heard a familiar voice behind him.

“Quick! Get them!” The voice belonged to the other Donnie who thrust a different bō towards his visiting counterpart, who quickly used his tail to catch the incoming weapon, wrapping it around the staff and then tugging the soft shell to the side as he flung it away.

He flapped his wings, jumping over Raph as he tried to grab him and catch his breath.

“Guys! Listen to me—“

Donnie looked up when he saw Mikey leap into the air, swinging his glowing fiery nunchucks, some inner instinct itching at the back of his brain and telling him to watch out when he saw the ferocious glint reflecting in his eyes.

“You’ll hold it right there!” His other self ordered with a confident smirk, slapping at his tail with his recovered bō staff when he tried to use it to deflect Mikey.

Donnie winced at the hit, turning around only to grunt when Raph grabbed his tail in an iron grip and held fast, trapping him in place.

He yelped at the loss of mobility, too late to notice the glowing orange mystic chains as they wrapped around him, and he felt the increasing temperature heating up from Mikey’s weapon.

“Ow! Angelo! Careful with the feathers, they're not fireproof!” He grunted, tensing as he nervously eyed the mystic chains pulling tight, pinning his wings to his sides at uncomfortable angles.

“What—?”

“How do you know my name?!”

“If you’d just wait a moment!” He yelled into the crisp morning air, unsuccessfully attempting to throw Raph’s grip off his tail when he thrashed it.

Donnie strained himself to wriggle free, grunting as he didn’t want to hurt the others. “This is not how I dreamed travelling dimensions would be!”

The other Donnie perked up, humming as he cautiously walked over. “Hang on a second brethren. Is that… me?” He announces in shock, approaching for a closer look and he was no doubt right.

It was him. But also… not?

“Whoa… two Donnie’s? But how?!” Mikey gasps, releasing the trapped Donnie who grumbled and stood up, shaking out his ruffled feathers and inspecting them.

Raph cautiously stepped in front of the others; his eyes narrowed in suspicion. “How do we know you're not some…uh… crazy mutant or one of the dark armors uh… worshippers?” Raph didn’t quite know what he could say, but he wasn’t about to trust anyone so suspicious without good reason, despite them looking like his brother.

“Dark what now?”

“You know… dark armor? Shredder? I mean we did defeat him and turns out he was just a trapped soul. So…” Mikey spoke up, before being shushed by Raph. “Okay, fine! How are we supposed to know you’re not some crazy mutant or yokai then, trying to kill us?!” He announces, making the winged Donnie sigh.

“Well, I haven’t tried to kill you yet?” He stated the obvious.

“You were standing over Leo’s body!”

“To make sure he was okay!”

Donnie slowly breathed in to calm down, how could he gain their trust? Surely, he could think of something to—

Oh… yes. That’s it!

“You, other me!” He pointed his clawed finger towards his counterpart who tensed at the sudden attention on him.

“Uh… what?” The counterpart Donnie cautiously responded, making his way over with hesitant steps.

“If you’re anything like me—which I know you are—you’ll have the same override code for the bō staff security encryption.” He smirks, noticing how his counterpart blinked, surprised.

“You… remember that?” He uttered in bewilderment.

“Of course I do. I wrote it.”

The tension in the air rippled, even Mikey who so badly wanted to talk, remained silent. Raph frowned but didn’t interrupt the two.

Winged Donnie began reciting, “Pi…Phi…Echo—“

“Delta-Seven-Kappa.”

They finished in sync, and a soft beat of silence followed after. The other Donnie exhales, lowering his staff, “That’s extremely classified information, that only I know.”

“I told you, I’m not here to hurt anyone.” Donnie held up his hands, his tail coiling around his ankle like a tether. “And I’d never let anything happen to Leo. No matter what universe he’s from.” He proudly noted, his wings fluffing out slightly.

Mikey finally looked down at his unconscious brother, “He’s out cold. Is he okay?” He asked out loud, making Donnie hug in response.

“He’ll wake up eventually… I think the mystic backlash took more out of him than he expected. Not to mention… well, everything else.”

“Everything else?” Raph questioned, tilting his head as Donnie glanced over to him, grim. “You know as well as I do. He’s not himself. Not just appearance wise but he’s cracking mentally. The pressure, the voice in his head, the mutation—“

“Wait, hold up. Voice?” The counterpart Donnie asked, furrowing his brows. “What voice?” He inquired once more, as Donnie looked between them, shocked and confused.

“…you really don’t know?” He could feel an eye beginning to twitch, he was too tired for this.

Silence hung in the air as Donnie hissed his frustration under his breath, taking a step forward, his tail flicking out. “How do you not know! He’s our—your brother! Did… did you even know he was gone?” He bewilderedly began interrogating.

“We knew he left! But…” Raph added in, pausing as he didn’t want to admit that no one followed after him.

“Wow… okay.” Donnie shook his head, taking in another steadying breath. “Before I start going crazy, we should take Leo someplace else instead of leaving him on a roof. You guys have a medbay right?” He asks, walking towards Leo as Mikey nods, stepping back to give him room.

“Yeah. Donnie and I can set it up for him when we get back.”

“Good. I’ll leave that to you then.” Donnie nods in agreement, crouching down and picking up Leo, he was heavy but with Donnie’s newfound strength from his own mutation, he could carry his brother without much issue.

He glanced at Raph who hovered nearby, as though he was ready to pull Leo away and carry him instead. That had irked Donnie for a moment, briefly tightening his hold on Leo, carrying him princess style.

Upon being picked up, Leo, while still unconscious, had managed to move, only slightly as he nuzzled his face against Donnie’s feathers. A soft churr echoing out of him as Donnie tensed briefly at the affection.

“Well… guess I wouldn’t be able to pass him over to anyone, anyway.” He mumbles, recoiling back slightly when Mikey popped up in front of him, cooing at the sight.

“Aw…! Man, I should’ve recorded that.”

Donnie smiled a little at his other dimensional younger brother. “Not to worry Angelo. I record everything.”

-----

It was warm, soft, dark but not unwelcome. Leo didn’t know what happened or where he was for a moment, groaning softly as he weakly opened his eyes. His vision blurred as he looked around, trying to blink everything into focus.

He recognised the place, the medbay. The familiar humming of the machine and beeping caught his attention and he narrowed his eyes. Confused.

“What…?”

He softly spoke under his breath, exhaling a deep breath as he rubbed at his head that throbbed slightly.

“He’s awake!” The familiar voice of Mikey called out, making Leo jolt in surprise as he noticed his brothers surrounding him in the med bay.

“W-what the?”

Donnie, his Donnie, went over to the right side of him, grabbing his face and inspecting him. “Do you feel sick? Any pain? How many fingers do you have?” He listed off, Leo pulled away for space.

“I feel fine. No pain. And I have 6 fingers all together.”

Leo sits up as much as he can, adjusting his posture to be more comfortable. “Dudes… I had the craziest dream of my life. You were there Donnie—“ Leo pointed before looking to the left side of him, seeing Donnie from the other dimension slouched in a chair.

“—and you were there too, Donnie.”

Leo then halts his speech, blinking owlishly. Looking between both Donnie’s. “What the hell—“

The Donnie from his world deadpans. “Well, he seems fine. I detect no issue with him.” He informs, nodding over to the other Donnie who hums back in acknowledgment.

“I concur. Nardo, you are okay? Right?”

Leo blanked on them, flabbergasted at the sight.

“What is happening?”

The winged Donnie sighs softly, “You're confused, I can understand. When you opened the portal, I followed after you. And we ended up back in your dimension. However, you were unconscious. Luckily, the panic button you have was still in working order. So…” He drifted off with his sentence, gesturing grandly to the others.

Leo still observed, opening his mouth and saying the first thing he could think of.

“…Holy shit—“

Raph cleared his throat, “All right. Uh… maybe Mikey should cook you something? You must be hungry.” He stated out loud, looking down at the box turtle.

“Oh yeah! Don’t worry, I’ll use my legendary culinary skills to make you something.” He saluted childishly, rushing out the room.

“I’ll go let dad know, uh, about this whole situation.” Raph awkwardly added, quickly exiting as Donnie, the one from Leo’s world tapped his foot.

“I really want to ask you both questions. And maybe get samples from my counterpart here. But, I guess I should let you guys rest?”

He walks away, “I’ll come back every now and then to check in on you two.” He assures, exiting the room as Leo and the other Donnie remained quiet.

“…You know, I'm calling you two something. To tell ya apart.”

“Like what?”

“How about you can be called Othertello?”

Donnie scoffs, his tail flicking slightly as he leans back against the chair he sat on. “I’m too tired to argue with you about that right now.” He mumbled, yawning widely as he pulled up his tech brace, a hologram appearing.

“What are you doing?”

“Checking to see if there’s a way I can go home too.” Donnie mumbled, sinking further into his chair.

Leo flinched a bit at that, but didn’t try to show his disappointment. “Ah, right. Guess you would need to get back.” He understood, rubbing the back of his neck as he patted at his blanket.

Or he thought it would be his blanket. He felt feathers, making him look down and seeing he was using Donnie’s wing as a makeshift blanket.

“You wouldn’t let go.” Donnie supplied, sensing Leo looking at the wing. “You would’ve pulled out my feathers.” He added, as Leo chuckled and continued to use the wing as a blanket, pulling it further over himself.

“It’s cozy.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

A corner of Donnie’s mouth turned up, before he furrowed his eyebrows together at the hologram, letting it vanish back into the tech brace. “Well, this is going to be difficult. Can’t seem to find anything useful to help me.”

Leo frowned a little in sympathy for him.

“Guess we can’t wind bag our way out of this one, Nardo.”

Leo couldn’t help but snort, giggling at the bluntly echoed words, another Epic reference.

“Nerd.”

Donnie didn’t seem to mind the comment, his tail swaying slightly behind him as his eyes began drooping dangerously low. Leo looked around, grumbling to himself when he couldn’t find his phone in the shadows.

“Ugh, who turned the lights off? Say, can you reach over to the light switch?”

“No need. I know a better way.”

Before Leo could ask what he meant, he recoiled back when Donnie opened his mouth, a warm and bright light appearing from his mouth as he shot out a small fireball, effectively illuminating the room the same time Leo took in a sharp breath of shock.

“WHAT THE F—“

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

WFI Masterpost

FTNTH Masterpost

Part 1/Part 2/Part 3/Part 4/Part 5/Part 6 (coming soon)

You are free to make fan art of these two by the way! We accept all art of them!

[ineedmycoffeerightnow]

Good catch btw! I didn't REALLY play og games beforehand, because my brother didn't let me play OR watch him play (im still mad abt it tbh) so my experience is limited by remakes.

Also about personalities : SO TRUE. As much as i want them to have it, i know it looks good on paper but it is tricky to get right in games. I really enjoy fans doing it, but i wouldn't be so happy if it was canon, y'know? I struggle with this though to this day, because on one hand it will make their stories more tragic, but as you said it would take away the fact that they are monsters

I think that MAYBE it would be good idea to like. Have 1 tyrant that has personality, but develop it through the game/comic/ DLCs (like i did myself. i have these two goobers - Scabs and Ulcers (Both names come from the symptoms of anthrax btw) - that were new experiments of the newly formed eastern-russian Umbrella branch after 2011's. The whole idea is that maybe tyrants could perform better if they had lil buddies by their side that could kill anyone that could possess a theat to them and could share a symbiotic bond with each other, so if one of them gets injured other one would get "berserk". And because bond like that needs a deep psychological attachment they kept Scrabs' intelligence. But the experiment was... Not successful at all. Tyrant almost immediately killed off his partners, or didn't pay much of an attention at ALL("The partners" were an infected with new strain of Uroboros and dominant plagas inside them). Long story short, at the end new company just goes bankrupt and decides to erase traces of the experiments' existence. Here comes Ulcers - their newest "partner", that even tho wasn't stabilised yet, already was going to be disposed of. He, to the surprise of no one, escapes his containment and was going to run as far from people as he could, until he saw Scrabs. Ulcers decides to help him out by absolutely demolishing the door that kept him incide and eating the staff, quickly running to the exit afterwards. Tyrant remembered that. And so, one thing after another, they started to work together to get away from labs. And as they did it, they decided to stay together(Scrabs was too slow for a tyrant and had problems with coordinating, and Ulcers was too fragile and constantly needed a source of heat to stay healthy) so it would be easier for them to survive. And so they did, eating unfortunate campers and animals in their way, meanwhile still running away from the government and other people that wanted them dead)

So um. Yes. I don't think it is the best example but. I tried

okay, tentatively, this is my new RE9 reveal bingo card

subject to change as the date gets closer

but i'm feeling pretty ok about this right now

[pleasantickles]

"You really ought to watch what you say, MK."

[andstuffsketches]

[bunnieswithknives]

OH MY GOD??? HAS IT SERIOUSLY BEEN A MONTH????? I am so sorry guys

Prev | Next

[darn-skipyy-art]

idk man sometimes stuff just sucks and you need your local idiot mental health professional to turn on nature documentaries and microwave you some tea yk?

[doctorsiren]

I saw an interesting post a while back that said “Capcom made us [Miles and Diego/Godot] only have like two(?) interactions because they knew we would be unstoppable with a brother dynamic” and tbh it stuck with me bc it was intriguing.

So yeah that potential brotherhood, but that Godot/Diego AU I made (that I still need a name for)

Also I bet Gregory Edgeworth would have smelled like a bit like coffee, and so Diego just reminds Miles of that comforting presence 😭 (the von Karma estate was a tea household, so he didn’t smell much coffee after DL-6 and didn’t realize how much he missed it/reminded him of his father)

[forgetme-eternally-blissfully]

Rapunzel AU!

Cale has been inside of the tower for his entire life. His hair is long, much longer than his brother's. His brother doesn't have a name. Cale knows they're brothers though- because they both have red hair, even if Brother has short hair and Cale does not.

Ever since Cale was 12, he'd been dreaming of a different world. He went to sleep and woke up as someone named Kim Roksu. This Kim Roksu was not in a similar situation as he was- Kim Roksu wandered the streets and ate food from the floor and hid in the small cabinet in his uncle's house. Kim Roksu was weak and strong.

Kim Roksu is a friend to Cale. When Cale wants to see the outside, he sleeps, and he dreams.

Kim Roksu figured out how to communicate with Cale after several years of simple body swapping.

Somehow, they are similar! They both agree that being trash is the best. Kim Roksu because it's easier being a bad person than a good person, and Cale because Brother won't let him be trashy and he wishes he could throw a fit without Brother punishing him.

"Your brother keeps you in a tower?" Roksu asks when he learns.

"Yeah. Is that weird?"

"Well, I don't know anyone who stays in a tower." Cale kicks a rock on the sidewalk with his barefoot, sending it skidding across the dirt road. "Ow, my toe." Roksu complains blandly.

Sharing a body, they also share the same sensations.

"You barely felt that and you know it."

"Shut up."

"You shut up." Cale retorts. He wants to say more, but he swallows those words and tucks them into his chest.

'The bruise over your eye hurts more but you don't complain about that.'

He bites his lip and looks down.

"Do you think," he asks quietly, "if I asked Brother to let me out, he would?"

Roksu, disembodied and floating over his body, frowns. "You haven't asked before?"

Cale smiles bitterly in Roksu's body. "... I did, once." After, Brother said he was going to be leaving for two weeks, and told Cale to ration his food well. Cale knew better than to think it was a coincidence. He didn't have Roksu yet. It was very lonely for a long time.

Roksu doesn't say anything.

"If," his voice trembles, "If I got out. If I left..."

"Cale." Roksu stops him. Cale winces, expecting to be reprimanded.

"You are trash. Trash does whatever they want, no matter what anyone says. If you want to leave, then leave." Roksu's translucent body floats over to stand in front of Cale. Sternly, he says, "Don't worry about useless things. Worry about making a plan and executing it."

Then, abruptly, Roksu turns and ignores him. Cale laughs and folds in half, a childish grin splitting his malnourished cheeks. How can someone be so blunt but so shy? Kim Roksu frowns, but it looks like a pout. Cale rubs away a tear and looks up at the back of his friend. No, the person who sometimes feels more like a brother to him than his real brother.

"And will you help me?"

Roksu rolls his eyes. "Don't ask something so obvious."

Cale smiles and looks down. "Right. Obvious, isn't it?"

Something like receiving help wasn't obvious to either of them. Yet, when it came to the two of them together, it was the most obvious thing in the world. It wasn't obvious with Brother, who he shared blood with. But Kim Roksu, who was abused and beaten down at every turn, chose to welcome a wandering soul into his body and share everything with him.

'You're the one who shouldn't want to be here,' Kim Roksu said when they first started talking and Cale asked why he didn't try to force Cale out. 'When you're in control, I can relax. Why would I want you to leave? That's so difficult.'

They learned that Kim Roksu really could force Cale out when his uncle kicked Cale, sending Kim Roksu's body sprawling onto the floor, then stomped on his arm so hard they heard a clear snap. For Cale it only hurt for a short moment. Roksu threw him out so fast you could imagine that he had practiced beforehand.

Every day and night, Cale slept to try and enter Roksu's body, check on him, share the pain, but Roksu kicked him out every time. It wasn't until four weeks later that Roksu let Cale back in.

Even that much pain was a lot for being four weeks after the incident, but while Cale was struggling to keep his cool, Roksu floated around him and spoke as if nothing was wrong. When Cale started sweating a few hours later Roksu kicked him out again.

'Don't be stubborn,' he said when Cale returned the next night. 'Just say that it hurts. If you still want to stay after you admit that it hurts then I won't kick you out.'

It was a very Kim Roksu thing to do.

"Brother," Cale asks one day at 15, impatiently brushing his hair. He gets scolded lightly, and Brother takes the brush from him. "I read in a book about something called a phone. Do you have one?"

Brother gives him a blank look. Then, as if it had been a lie, his expression changes into something kind and gentle. "Fone? Can you show me the book?"

Cale and Brother roughly root around in every book for anything like the so-called 'Fone,' coming up short.

"Maybe it was a dream," Cale excuses it like that, rubbing his neck. Brother looks at him, worried.

"It must have been. Get some rest, Cale." A kiss to the top of Cale's head, Brother hugs him and promises to bring him more paint. "I'll be gone for a few days this time. Do you want something?"

"Ah," Cale smiles, pressing his face into his Brothers neck to hide his face. "Could you bring me -------?" Brother freezes.

"... you-"

"I learned it from the books! This time I really did, Brother. Please?"

Slowly, Brother releases the tension in his body. "... If that's what you want. But you have to close the window if you're going to mess around with alcohol."

"Yes!" Cale jumps with joy. Then he suddenly runs to a bookshelf, changing the topic by talking about a book Brother brought to him last time. "-and I'd like to know if the sequel is out yet."

"I'll do that." Brother smiles. "You've been asking for more things recently, Cale." Brother settles a hand on his head, stroking his hair.

"It's because of my reliable older brother!" He grabs onto that hand, keeping it there, resembling a naive little brother who only has his role model in his eyes.

He sends his brother down the tower using his hair, and watches that spot of red disappear in the distance.

His face drops.

"... Bastard."

Cale turns on his foot. It's time to see Roksu.

[camphorcapstan]

VULTURE

[arolesbianism]

Been finally getting around to resuming my second isat playthrough and just noticed smth. During act two. After you get past the door that needs the key from floor two. If you call loop in the two following what next dialogues Siffrin doesn't say anything and it just occurred to me it's probably because he's feeling the dread™ of the rapidly approaching end. Head in hands.

[smply-sktchng]

Chainsaw Man Chapter 74 with Excerpts from Mystic by Sylvia Plath

“The air is a mill of hooks —

Questions without answer

…

I remember

The dead smell of sun…

Once you have seen God, what is the remedy?

Once one has been seized up…

…

Used utterly…

What is the remedy?

…

[beneathsilverstars]

you mentioned a comic game and im curious as to how that works and would be done

the format is webcomic-y because it’s infinite(ish) vertical scroll of various panels. the panels are a mix of illustrations, comic pages, dialogue boxes, choice boxes, blocks of prose, audio players, and possibly videos! similar vibes to scrolling through a tumblr, lol. here’s a format prototype i made ft my other oc, as practice to start learning twine and css.

the gameplay will be mostly visual-novel-style dialogue/action choices, possibly along with an inventory, stats, and/or a little map (probably not a full walkaround map, but more along the lines of the super mario level select map). and the plot will be overall linear, working towards one consistent ending, but with options in the paths you take to get there, like isat.

i have an innovative mechanic in mind that will reduce the problem that frustrates me most when i play visual novels, with excellent ludonarrative harmony... but i'm not telling the internet about it till i actually make the game, lol. and i haven't worked on it since lockdown, so i'm thinking it'll probably be 4-12 years till i have the time and energy to get back to it and then who knows how long it'll take to actually make. but! some day!!

[ki1ldeer]

The inconveniences of your boyfriend being a… psychic? Budding demigod of fate? Eh