#but I mean if romance fits your captain then knock yourself out

[danwhobrowses]

One Piece Chapter 1117 - Initial Thoughts

The breaks always feel long but they always end

because One Piece is back! Which means we have to see more of Vegapunk's transmission and the Straw Hats' escape

Let's not linger on it, let's see what we have!

Spoilers for the Chapter, Support the Official Release too!

Yamato is still yet to start his voyage, this time stopping by Nekomamushi and Hyou's neck of the woods

Seems Neko is living among the Yakuza, which to be fair does fit his style

The reveal last chapter that the Roger pirates knew about the world sinking causes some to wonder if the One Piece is underwater

Or at the least, great treasure hidden at the bottom of the sea

Seems the Polar Tang wasn't the only known ship able to dive underwater, but they're expensive

Also made myself sad because we lost the Polar Tang...and the Victoria Punk

EDIT: I didn't even see it the first time but the Krieg Pirates are there, you see Pearl even more decked out, Krieg has a mane and GIN! HE'S ALIVE!

There are however 2 other ships that know how to dive, an alliance of Romance Chasers

Montblanc Cricket and the Saruyama Alliance react to the news, and consider doing some more diving to investigate a new romance

Cricket also notes how it was before Noland's time, so it would be uncharted territory, just regulate yourself so you don't get the bends again

In the G-5, the SWORD agents lick their wounds

Hibari is defrosted, and Koby is struggling to process everything

Kujaku notes how a captain is recovering, but I'm not sure who that is, Koby's the only known SWORD captain and he's in the panel, plus they use male pronouns so it can't be Tashigi

Koby looks to Grus about the shitstorm about to go down, which Grus is also concerned about, Kujaku however relishes a chance to step up

X DRAKE'S ALIVE

He's out of Wano and in a recovery bed, what about Hawkins? Did he make it?

Tashigi's also making a call to Smoker

Missed ya Smokey, driving all badass across water with your motorbike, no need to guess who you learned that from

Vegapunk continues his message, noting that anything else would be speculation so he won't delve deeper - much to audience chagrin

Back to the Labophase and the barrier has been lifted by Stussy

Nami and Chopper notice that the clouds have also stopped moving, but Usopp assures that they can make it to the sea

Lilith however notes the ships they'd be landing on, some of them friendlies as well

Brook charges up the Coup de Burst so it's all waiting on Jinbe and Zoro

Speaking of whom, they are nearly there, but they're on the tail of something bigger: V. Nusjuro

Nami thinks Zoro and Jinbe ended up getting distracted and chasing a monster, but I would assume Zoro (since Nami wouldn't take that tone with Jinbe as often I don't think) notes that they're going the same direction

Whoever it is, they note the Gorosei's 'special presence'

Usopp, Chopper and Lilith go into an eye pop as the Gorosei prepares to bisect the Sunny

Jinbe and Zoro are doing the Fastball Special!

V. Nusjuro blocks Zoro's Nitoryu, though the clash isn't a simple swat away

Zoro confirms what we've theorized with V. Nusjuro having the final and most powerful Kitetsu blade, Shodai Kitetsu

The impact sends both swordsmen being knocked back, and the twitter fans go wild

Jinbe catches Zoro, as Zoro tells Nami to launch the ship anyway, intending to latch on before it flies away

With Sanji's group, he, Bonney, Atlas and Franky are still waiting for Luffy, but they're also under heavy fire

Comms are down, but Luffy's voice is unmistakable

Dorry and Brogy also call on Oimo and Kashii to get the ship ready, sending the legendary Giant Warrior Pirates into action

Out they come taking on a warship each by themselves, the one in the lower middle looks like he's about to eat a dude

Bluegrass isn't some easy shmoe though, using a commandeered Weaponized Sea Beast to attack and encouraging the marines to step up

The laser blast from the sea beast blows a hole in the longboat, and then Kashii is battered by Doll's Rock n' Roll Blaster (which seems to be a Gatling-esque series of punches)

The marines much like they do with Hina fawn over Doll when she gets violent, wonder if she trained under Garp with such fisticuffs?

The felling of Kashii has motivated the marines to not back down from the giants either

Luffy meanwhile is curious where Warcury went, since he's no longer on their tail, but the giant captains are too relieved to wonder about that

Alas, all but V. Nusjuro surround the Iron Giant, realising that it's the same one that attacked Marejois

Of course this is where Vegapunk is about to deliver a closing juicy statement

'To those who carry the letter 'D.' in your name' !!!???

Dragon with the classic ellipsis, Sabo thinks of his brothers, Koby thinks of Luffy and Garp, Blackbeard interest piqued, and Bepo calls out to his captain - so Law is very much alive

'Among you there is mo-' and the giant is knocked down, along with the transmission

And a collective wail among the audiences of the world in and out of the manga is heard

Morgans, Vivi and Wapol react to the cut off, as the Gorosei and York breathe a sigh of relief that the transmission is over.

Well god damn

We expected the blueball and yet it still sucked to be blue balled XD Unless we aren't that is. Pride comes before the fall maybe?

I would say it's 70/30 on the side of the Gorosei succeeding, we don't need to know any more at this stage right now - but I do blame the 10 minute delay for picture. But what could 'mo-' - the chapter's title - mean? What more was it. Among you there is mo-what? Someone with the D. has something, and it's important.

But it does look like we're reaching the final escape from Egghead. I hope Sentomaru made it out, X Drake can survive and leave Wano after all. There are still some fights going on among the Giants and the Marines, plus we don't know how the CP0 lot will resolve itself, but we tend to take for granted just how insanely jam-packed Egghead has been, and Elbaf is next!

Glad Zoro got a little bit more cred back for matching V. Nusjuro, plus I liked it was a fastball special it's just fun when groups fight in sync with each other. Also kinda glad we put some respect on Bluegrass and Doll, shows there are levels to vice admirals outside of just Garp.

All the cameos were good too, would've liked to have seen Tashigi and Bogard again but happy to see Smoker and Cricket was a nice surprise.

Unless Vegapunk has one last trick up his sleeve, it's time to get off this island.

[pyromantic-art]

Change of Address (Sunless Skies drabble)

The Captain takes the Incautious Driver to see their doctor, and admirably restrains herself from punching out their parents. Nameless she/her captain, feels but no romance. Short lil’ thing (Word count: 972) Read on Ao3.

    Change of Address

   The Driver’s doctor resides in an elegant town-home in the seemlier part of New Winchester. The only announcement of its business is a quiet silver plaque by the door. It is stately. Discreet. Exclusive.

    Nonetheless, the door opens for them at the Driver’s request. The foyer is at once both a cold and cozy affair: it is tiled, black on white on black, lined with polished bronzewood paneling, commendably clean, and occupied by a herd of obscenely-stuffed armchairs crouched along the walls. From nothing, a harried assistant manifests, taking their name, their information, waving the two of them to a seat before promptly dematerializing.

    They sit. They wait.

    The quiet settles like a cloak about her, comfortable and easily-borne. It is punctuated only by the Driver’s perpetual fidgeting. They tap their toes. They rap tuneless beats into the chair. They crane their neck every which way, staring into the shadows of the cross beams, as if something unpleasantly parental might come crawling out.

    “Haven’t been here in ages,” they say. “Hasn’t changed.”

    “Hmm.” She turns just enough to eye their scars, stark red against their jaw. “You come less frequently now?” That might explain quite a bit, actually.

    The Driver scoffs. “Mother brought me here incessantly. I sneezed, she brought me here. I stubbed a toe, she brought me here. I slept in that chair,” they stab a finger at the one nearest the stair, “because I coughed in my sleep once, and she wanted me ‘near as possible’ to medical attention should I start to choke.”

    She pulls the quiet closer, saying nothing. Her face remains an impassive mask as she watches the words bleed out of them.

    “I was already choking.” They deflate with a sigh, curling in on themself. Their voice falls as soft as Avon rain. “Hasn’t changed.”

    She waits until it is clear they have nothing more to say. “She wanted to protect you,” she tells them, even though she really hasn’t the first idea what their mother wanted. The Driver doesn’t respond, not at first. The words wallow in the silence a little.

    “She wanted to keep me,” they say at length, as if the declaration was previously simmering inside them. “Put me on a shelf, like a thing. A pretty piece of china.” They sit hunched over on the cushioned office chair, mouth pressed into a grim line, stretching at their scars. Their hand raises to scratch at one. “Can’t have any cracks, now, can we?” The glare they’re giving the tile has a heat that the Clockwork Sun couldn’t hope to match.

    It occurs to her, then, that she’s never seen the Driver well and proper angry before. Indeed, they seem to only oscillate between the same two moods: inadvisable joy (When everything is going marvellously wrong.) and morose boredom (When everything is not.) Anger is new. Venom is new. The pain is…

    Well, she thinks the pain might be very old, in fact. Old and, until now, carefully concealed.

    The Driver’s name is called. A door in the lobby swings open, and in steps a stately woman in a fastidious tweed suit. She waves them forward, dour and dead-eyed.

    “Well.” The Driver snaps to their feet, their thunderous mood gone as quickly as morning mist. The grin they throw her is cocky and crooked. Her hands itch with the urge to straighten it out. “Back out in a jif. Nothing bad, I bet.”

    “I bet,” she echoes, hollow. The Driver and the doctor disappear back through the door, and it’s then she notices the assistant scuttling about the room still. They approach, passing a rickety clipboard into her hands. She expects a bill. She finds -

    “Paperwork?” She asks. The sheet is lined with endless boxes and fields and personal information that she’s sure she has no business seeing. “Pardon, paperwork? Do I have the legal authority to fill this, even?”

    The assistant doesn’t spare her time to shrug, scuttling on further. “You see anyone else here who can?”

    No. No, she does not. Despite the Driver eyeing every shadow like their mother might come striding out, their parents are not here. She feels the absence like a bruise.

    So she takes the paperwork and looks it over, commitment to privacy overcome by her insatiable need to know. There is a delightful wealth of information on her equally delightful Driver: their full name, their age (Young, too young, she thinks, though she was younger when she fell into this life. Younger and hungrier, too.), their date of birth (Quickly copied into her own datebook.), some work and health and travel history.

    Their former address of residence.

    She reads it, once.

    One eyebrow arches up her forehead.

    She reads it again.

    The other eyebrow joins the first.

    She’s faintly familiar with it, of course. Ten Sovereigns says that near everyone in New Winchester is. It’s one of the prettiest streets in port, lined with tall, ornate townhouses that, come to think of it, do strike her as looking something like china cabinets.

    My. How glamorous. How proper.

    She takes her pen, and draws one smooth stroke through the address. Precise, clean, clinical. There.

    She moves back, and makes a second.

    A third. A fourth. A fifth.

    She cuts with the pen until the paper is bleeding black with ink. Then she moves down, and primly writes on the line beneath: The Orphean.

    The name is stark and right against the paper. She nods, once. Good. Good.

    She slips the pen into the clip at the top, and folds her hands upon the completed paperwork. The blacked-out former address is illegible now, but she thinks she can still read the scar of it in the paper. Perhaps she will make a house-call, later.

    But not now. Now, she wraps up once again in quiet, she perches on that bloated chair, she considers, hazily, every offhand comment and mention the Driver has made of their family in these past months.

    And she waits.

[noctis-noctua]

Iron Resolve and Refreshing Gales | Overworked Jean x Reader

Relationship: Jean/Reader

Genre: Fluff

Premise: Jean has been pushing herself to the max lately and refuses to acknowledge the detrimental consequences of it no matter who tells her… except for the one person who has her wholehearted devotion.

1754 words.

Here you go! Sorry if it’s a bit subpar - this is my first time writing for Jean, but no complaints here. She’s awesome and I am a total simp for her lmao. 

    Jean has a destructive tendency to attend to the needs of everyone but herself. It doesn’t matter if the issue is as trivial as finding a lost cat or filing papers - Jean carries out each and every request from the citizens of Mondstadt. These days have been busier than usual. Ludi Harpastum is a few days away and that means that preparations are being carried out religiously. In other words, Jean has people knocking on her door non-stop. Can you help decorate Town Square? Hilichurls are blocking the path that my goods are traded on, could you please clear them out? She hasn’t felt the doting embrace of sleep in two days, nor has she consumed more than a couple of light meals. ‘There’s no time for them,’ she often explains to the other Knights. ‘I’m satisfied with anything I can get.’ 

    Lisa is an early riser. She enjoys taking time to brew a pot of Sumerian tea and read new material as the sun floods across Mondstadt, and to do so she must awaken ahead of schedule. It’s because of this that Lisa arrives at the office before anyone else; 5:00 am to be exact, leaving much time to prepare for the day’s labor. She strides to the library doors before coming to a sudden stop, observing the sounds of a frenzied pen in the room across from hers. Jean’s room. Lisa does not hesitate to open the door, exposing a fatigued blonde reading and marking up a stack of documents.

    “Jean, have you been here all night?” Jean’s eyes are dull, leaden bags hanging from beneath them. On the right side of her desk is an almost-spent candle, the dwindling remains of its wax no more than 2 inches. 

    “Oh, good morning Lisa. Unfortunately, I have. That’s alright, though. The sooner I finish them the sooner I can move on to patrolling.” Her tone is desolate despite Jean’s attempts to liven it. The blaring headache ricocheting in her brain is practically begging her to rest, but Barbatos knows that’s not an option. She still has so much to do, and even after she completes this there are mor-

    “[Y/N] hasn’t seen you in days. Not taking a break strains her, too.” Lisa remarks, eyes dancing over the bookshelf. She catches sight of the full series of The Fox in the Dandelion Sea. Mondstadt’s famous romance novels, and one of Jean’s favorites. It’s almost ironic, how such a neglectful Knight came to be a sappy romantic. 

    “...[Y/N] is strong and independent, Lisa. She has no need for me, and although I’d enjoy seeing her, I know that she is perfectly capable of looking after herself. If I have to push my relationship to the side momentarily to sate the people of Mondstadt, then it has to be done.” Jean responds as she pushes another paper to the side. By now there must be 40 finished pages. It pains Lisa to look at them, much less read them. Making peace with defeat, she suggests that Jean purchases a full meal and exits the stuffy quarters. The Dandelion Knight can do nothing but sigh for the 40th time, doing the best she can to ignore the subtle shaking of her limbs, the thrashing pain in her head, and the gradual blur of her sight. 

    She’s fortunate enough to finish up faster than expected and spends the spare time making a beeline for Good Hunter. Suddenly, the hunger in her stomach is 10x more noticeable, and nothing else is on her mind but eating some Fisherman Toast. That is until she bumps into a sobbing blob of red, blubbering much as a fish does.

    “Klee! Did something happen? Did you blow something up?” Jean interrogates, crossing her arms. The small Knight makes a tentative nod and bursts into another fit of tears. I was really hungry… It’s fine, I can always eat later. Jean comforted herself as she held Klee’s tiny palm, preparing for the damage inflicted. 

-

    It’s 11:00 pm. Jean’s ponytail has been ruffled to a point of no return, convincing her to take it down and let the locks of hair flood down her shoulders. New civil letters sit on the mahogany table. Jean prepares another candlestick for the long night ahead, resisting the culling of sleep. It’s much harder to focus than it was last night and nothing but a handful of 10-minute naps and a mushroom skewer are stopping her from dropping dead. Finish fast and I can go home and get a 3-hour nap… Jean’s mind is so adrift and preoccupied that she ignores Kaeya’s presence entirely. 

   “Busy as always, Acting Grand Master. I heard it’s your 3rd day at the office. I thought I’d take the time to invite you to Angel’s Share.” The Cavalry Captain’s voice is sultry, filling the dusty silence. Jean takes one look at his flamboyant figure and turns back to the envelope in her hand, squinting at the printed symbols.

    “Sorry, Sir Kaeya, but I have some stuff to do. I can’t possibly drink - it may impact my performance. Thank you, though.” Kaeya chuckles at that. Stalking over to the paned glass, he observes the joyous city below. Upon closer inspection, Jean looks like absolute shit. Her hair is mussed and her skin is a cumbersome shade, a slight green tone atop her normal paleness. 

    “Same old excuse. Take some time off. You need some fun, Acting Grand Master. It must be boring to be so serious all the time.” His words are not valuable enough to be met with more than a hum. “Fine, fine, be that way. But know that if you ever want to come down, everything is on me. It’s not every day that you come out. Plus… pushing yourself so much can’t be good for your health, Jean.” The drop of formalities is Kaeya’s last attempt to pull his superior away from the bureau, and then he takes his leave. Jean doesn’t fail to notice the painkillers he slipped onto the papers. That snarky Captain… as crass as he tries to be, Jean knows that his actions come from a genuine concern for her health. Thanking him in silence, she tosses the two pills into the back of her throat. 

    The evening descended into twilight, then to the darkest hours of the morning, and Jean has not moved from her chair. The herbal pills had dissipated an hour ago, and the pounding of her headache is almost enough to send Jean reeling. She doesn’t stop, obviously; she’s felt much harsher pains. 4:00 am tranquility serves to be helpful for such aches, but now that her entire body is in pain, it’s much harder to soothe. Her head jolts in intervals as she fights the intense drowsiness. Iron as her resolve may be, Jean is human. Her back hunches as her arms catch a drifting head that now lolls on her reports. The flutter of her eyelashes is peaceful in its own right. Slow exhales leave Jean’s body as she sleeps, her body relishing in such a rare moment. 

    Jean opens her eyes to the scene of a stubby candle that has burnt out. She opens her intricate timepiece in a hurry. 5:00 am. How could she have slept for an entire hour? Dread floods her system as she thinks of how much she has delayed her already bustling schedule. In the midst of her panic, the door opens. It must be Lisa. No one else is mindlessly occupying the building at this ti-

    “Hi, Jean. I brought some tea and cookies for you. I’m sure you must be exhausted… it’s been three days since I’ve seen you, after all.” Jean’s stare softens at the sight of her beloved holding a steaming teacup and a tray of shortbread. She caresses the hand that passes the teacup. The comfort of skin is something she longs for, and something she has deprived herself of these past few days.

    “[Y/N]... I’m sorry. I’ve just been so busy lately, and…” Her lips become still as you tread your fingers through her hair and press a chaste kiss to her forehead. “...and I’ve missed you.” She revels in the smile that tugs from you. That beautiful smile… Archons, how much she’s missed it.

    “Jean, come home. If not for your livelihood, for mine. The bed has been cold.” The desperation in your voice breaks Jean’s heart in two. If Jean is a Dandelion Knight, you are the passionate gales of Barbatos plucking her apart, seed by seed. There is no plausible way for her to stay composed around you. Jean leans into the hand against her cheek, a cat yearning for human contact.

    “I suppose I can… do these in the morning.” That earns a swift glare from you. Jean huffs, taking a singular bite of the shortbread. She’s had to explain her Knightly duties to you in many instances, but it always went through one ear and out the other without fail. 

    “No, absolutely not Jean. Give it to your subordinates. Tomorrow, you are staying with me, no questions asked. I’m sure they’ll allow it - your face looks 5 seconds away from death. Now come.” Jean grimaces at the list of tasks she’s stuck on the table’s edge, biting her lip in a debate against herself. Surrendering herself to the feeble begging of her lover, she mutters a small agreement. The tug on her arm convinces Jean to stand, leaning into your shoulder. She finds solace in the warmth you radiate as both of you exit the Knight’s Quarters arm-in-arm, attached at the hip like lovesick puppies. 

    The sun has begun to ascend again, accompanied by a saccharine breeze. It smells of sweet flowers and calla lilies. It smells of the fresh fields of Windrise, tangling Jean’s hair. 

    “Look, even Barbatos is happy that you’re taking a break!” You tease, and Jean cannot help but giggle. She will always laugh at your jokes, and she will always give in to your demands for touch because Jean is a hopeless, pining fool. On the elevated platforms on the Cathedral stairs, Lisa’s plump lips curve as she sees the Dandelion Knight and her precious adventurer roaming the empty streets of Mondstadt. It’s days like this that Lisa is grateful for waking early, so she can experience the morning wind, the rising sun, a delectable dish of tea, and a picturesque scene of a dandelion being burst by the adamant winds.

[nimmy22]

A Mistake: Chapter 12

~ The following day, Saturday ~

"Do something, Wesker! These fucking imbeciles at the papers are starting to question my competence as chief all because of a pathetic group of boys you can't seem to dispose of." Irons seethed, slamming his cup of whisky on the desk, knocking his nameplate to the ground.  

Wesker gave nothing away of his emotions, save for a tick in his brow. His hands craved to wrap around Irons’ neck, giving it a swift snap. It's how he felt most of his days at the station. Irons was replaceable. The man didn't realize just how worthless he was to Umbrella. His replacement could arrive this very afternoon.

"We are working on finding the gang's nest. The big players keep using young boys for the jobs but tell them nothing about insider information. There are too many eyes watching us right now. We cannot use any special means to dispose of the group in order avoid questions."

"Just Do your fucking job right. I can't stand the news conferences anymore. the journalist's questions make me look laughable." Irons clutched his glass, throwing it hard against the wall. Tapping a finger on the armrest, Wesker didn't bat an eye at the behavior of the chief of police. One couldn't expect much from such a lowly creature.

"You seem to forget why Umbrella put me as captain of STARS. It isn't to keep up your public appearance but to protect theirs. I'm not the one who isn't doing his job. Deal with the journalists while I handle the little boy scouts." pushing back his chair, Wesker made sure to leave deep grooves on the freshly varnished floors. The scraping sound was like music to his soul. He didn't miss the deathly glare on his way to the door like hot iron rods.

Returning to the STARS office, Wesker ignored the gossiping of Chris and Jill about the newest trouble between their captain and Irons. Shutting the door to his office, he took a seat behind his desk. Through the office blinds, he eyed each present member of STARS. of course, no one was getting any work done, lazing around the office, making meaningless bets.

This simply will not do.

It was time they did some undercover work, gathering information about Raccoon city's newest crime family. These boy scouts wouldn't last long around here, especially since they fell on the radar of the real monsters in the shadows of Raccoon.

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

She sat alone on the staircase, elbows resting on her knees, wondering how the hell she got here.  The house was familiar to her. How many times has she looked after Sherry here? Still, it felt strange. It was his space, and she was invading it.

This was now supposed to be her home. The place gave no hints as to who lived here, lacking any personal touch. It was likely the work of an anterior designer following the most fashionable trends. The home of a bachelor.

Speaking of Wesker, he left after dumping her here last night and vaguely pointing her towards the guest room with a 'help yourself' to any food. As always, he gave her the bare minimum of info, not that she asked what he was up to. She didn't care whether he spent the night hiding bodies or doing legitimate police work. She was too terrified to sleep under the same roof, only a few walls apart. Does the man ever sleep? Shower? Eat?

She won't lie. She was glad Wesker left. But even with him gone, she couldn't stop thinking about what happened. More so the kiss than almost becoming a guinea pig. It was a lot to process, and she couldn't even begin.

For the nth time, she forcibly pulled her fingers away from her lips, scolding herself for replaying the memory again. This man was absolute bad news. She needed to get out of the house, and an incoming call from Claire had her scrambling to answer as quickly as possible. Her friend presented an idea, and Cara was all too grateful to join in.  

Pulling up Wesker's name in the contacts, Cara's fingers hovered over the letters, unsure of what and how much to tell him.  Where did they stand? Did he really mean everything, or was it a trick?  Was she free to leave? Did he give up completely on the idea of killing her?

"Going out with Claire. I will be back late." she texted, fully knowing a lot of info was missing. But it's not like he ever gave her a ton.

"Stay out of trouble.' came a replay moments later.

The words were unsaid, but Cara definitely heard them.  'I don't have time to drop everything and run over to the rescue each and every time you get in trouble,'

'I asked for help only once. The other time's nobody asked you to come.' Cara grumbled but deleted what she wrote. she could've gotten herself out of those situations...with a little bit of thinking. Actually, a lot of thinking.

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

Cara had to walk several blocks away from Wesker's house to prevent suspicion. If by any chance, Claire knew the address of her brother's captain, it would be a hole she did not want to leap into.

Standing in front of an old bookstore, she waited for her friend. The building was slightly rundown, its walls covered in graffiti, but the owners were a kind elderly couple. They pushed discounts her way, and she was guilted to buy something. She ended up buying a useless cat plushie toy after seeing that most books were non-fiction or raunchy romance novels. She would rather die than have Wesker coming across an erotic novel lying around his house.

She stared at the plushie as she leaned against the wall outside the shop. Cara considered giving it to Sherry the next time they met. This would be the first present she ever gave the young girl, and she could almost imagine the excitement on Sherry's face. It made her smile.

A helicopter passed overhead, sleek black and adorned with the Umbrella white and red symbol. Cara watched the chopper get smaller and smaller until it disappeared, heading in the direction of the Arkley mountains. she wondered about their business up there was. Looking around, no one else seemed to notice nor care. Maybe it was best to keep all knowledge to herself.

Seeing a familiar redhead and a motorcycle, Cara waved as Claire pulled up, handing her a helmet.

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

The barn smelled of sweat, dust, and old wood. The unmistakable smell of alcohol was thick in the air as it was passed around freely in cheap red plastic cups. She recognized kids from school, but many more were older, likely from Raccoon university. A light disco machine was nailed to the wall, casting the barn in a series of flashing lights. Tall Straw piles of hay distributed across the barn ensured there was no shortage of dark corners for people to disappear to.  For a moment, Cara considered hiding in the straw and then going home when the party was over. But seeing the sparkle in Claire's eyes about hanging out with her best friend threw the idea out the window. With a sigh, she followed her friend.

Over the course of the night, the girls danced and drank, carefree. A blond-haired boy was staring at her, Cara noticed. He attempted to walk up to her but turned around before getting within ten feet. He tried multiple times but always chickened out despite his friends constantly cheering him on. Claire thought it was cute and refused to stop openly staring at him and giving a thumbs up.  Cara swatted Claire's hands before holding them behind her back in a pretend arrest, pushing her against the straw pile.

"Sorry Officer! I was just trying to help you get laid," Claire giggled. "I hope you're into blonde's though,"

"This is so embarrassing. Stop, or I'm leaving," Cara snapped, feeling a blush heat her face as Wesker crossed her mind. Fuck, why now?

"Oh? so you are into blondes," Claire's smile was cunning. "Let me help you,"

"No. Bad Claire, bad, bad girl. No treats for you tonight." Cara scolded, Stealing the can of beer her friend stole from a guy before cracking it open and downing its contents. She wouldn't yet consider herself drunk, just pleasantly buzzed.

The boy ran off again. Cara felt bad for him and was actually tempted to go up to him instead. His friends kept a steady stream of alcohol into his hand.

"H-hey, " And then he did it, with the help of liquid courage, of course.

For the effort, Cara decided not to openly embarrass him with rejection but not lead him on either. Walking away backward, Claire gave her a thumbs up along with a suggestive motion of the eyebrows, making horrid shapes with her hands. Cara covered her face, hoping to purge the image out of memory. She'll get her back in no time.

Ben was a bit shy at first, but soon they got talking and enjoyed themselves. His hair was a few shades darker and shorter than Wesker's. She didn't have to look up at him as they stood at a similar, comfortable height. Slender and skinny, he would shrink to nothing beside the captain. Cara grimaced, realizing she had been comparing the poor guy to a demon. It wasn't his fault that her mind was occupied with someone way out of her league... the legal kind.

The barn was becoming more and more crowded, and the dancing crowd swallowed them. Sticking out like two sore thumbs, they did their best to dance. Cara felt awkward but seeing the dimples in his smile made her feel better even as it became a tighter fit among the crowd. They had to dance closer lest they got separated.

She wondered what it would feel like to dance with Wesker. He seemed like the sophisticated type. The awkward moves of a teenager would never be adequate for him. Did he ever do anything that was remotely recreational? What do villains even do in their spare time? Manipulating the feelings of underage girls looks like. What stupid, stupid thoughts.

She prayed all these ideas would go away soon, as the thrill of the kiss wore off, and everything went back to normal. Did she want to go back? Why in the world would he like her? she knew who he really was, and he still let her live. Why take the risk with her? she was just a seventeen-year-old. Useless to everyone, with no connections and no money.  

Fuck it. Cara refused to think about Wesker anymore tonight. There was a perfectly alright guy in front of her, someone her own age, someone in her league, someone she wouldn't have to hide. Someone who was looking at her with a soft expression, blinking slowly.

Cara placed her hands on either side of Ben's face and pulled him towards her, connecting their lips. He reacted instantly, kissing her back. His hands awkwardly hovered over her arms before stroking them softly.

He was a nice guy, not a terrible kisser, but she hated it. Hated every touch because it wasn't as good as with Wesker. She couldn't stop comparing, and it was frustrating, spurring her to kiss Ben harder.

She continued, out of spite, to kiss the boy who looked at her with affection. in the background, she heard a few boys cheering, likely his friends. This was wrong, very wrong.

A firm hand gave her waist a painful squeeze before it was gone, and she thought it was Ben. Her eyes flew open as she felt a warm breath by her ear. It wasn't Ben.

"If I was not undercover right now, this lesser specimen of a boy would've made some unforgettable acquaintances a lot sooner. You could've done so much better, yet you have chosen to this..." Wesker seethed by her ear, sending shivers down her spine. Her body froze, but Ben didn't pick up the cue.  Wesker's muscles were tense as he pressed against her back. She could almost hear the exhale through clenched, grinding teeth.

Then he was gone, slipping through the crowd just as he came. No one notices anything. Cara broke the kiss and shoved Ben away. "I'm sorry, it isn't going to work out." She hurried after Wesker, but he was already lost in the crowd.  

She shoved her way through the throngs of people but only managed to find other members of STARS in civilian clothes. None seemed to notice or recognize her. They must've been here on undercover work, but why? she put that question aside as there were more pressing things to worry about.

She felt sick and wanted to throw up, but nothing was coming up. she burst through the doors of the suffocatingly hot bran, raking her hands through her hair. The cool night air hit her heated skin, but she couldn't find relief. She wanted to be swallowed by the ground.

She needed to find Wesker. But then what? Apologize? Apologize for making her own choices? They weren't a couple.

She continued to look for him nevertheless. She walked further from the barn towards an old car junkyard. She thought perhaps a fuming man would need some privacy. A strong feeling in her gut told her this was the right way.

Cara walked far enough from the party that the music was nothing but a distant noise. It was dark and quiet, the perfect place for an assault. If Wesker decided to murder her, no one would find her for at least a week, stuffed in the trunk of a car. If ever.  

Grabbed from behind, she was thrown against a car. Sliding to the ground, she cradled her aching arm, squinting in the dark to see her assailant. Wesker kneeled beside her, his civilian clothes dark and expensive.

"Why cut it short? You should've kissed him more while you still can because he will be the last boy you will ever kiss." squeezing her cheeks harshly, he dragged his thumb with heavy pressure over the flesh of her lips, still swollen from kissing Ben.

As Wesker let go of her face, she felt the cold muzzle of a gun pressing against her temple. Her heart skipped a beat, but she glared at him straight in the eye. Daring.

"I don't know what you want from me! You told me to keep out of trouble, and I did. Yet here we are," Cara lied. She knew what he wanted but didn't know why he wanted it.

"Were my intentions not clear enough? Do I have to spell it out for you? But I suppose intelligence was never your strength,"

Wesker pressed the gun harder against her temple, her glare unwavering. "Go ahead. Shoot me. why do you even bother?"

Neither moved, naked eyes locked with no shades between. Cara reached up and pulled the gun out of his hands with ease. He didn't resist, glaring at her with a tense jaw. Looking down, she almost laughed, seeing the safety was still on. This man couldn't bring himself to kill her. It was all a show of intimidation, and she wasn't falling for it. Not anymore.

As she made to stand, his hand pushed her down. Thinking he wanted the gun back, she returned it to his hand and tried to stand. again, he pushed her down. "Can I get up now?" she scowled, staring up at him.

Things happen too quickly for her to process. The hands on Cara's shoulder grabbed her legs, lifting her off the ground as Wesker wrapped her legs around him before slamming her against the car. She was winded, gasping for breath as he watched her with a smirk. She grabbed his arms, digging her nails into his defined muscles.

"You're up now," he whispered before his lips kissed her neck, sucking and nibbling the skin. A moan escaped her lips, and she covered her mouth immediately.

Grabbing both her hands, he pinned them against the car. "I need to clean your mouth of all traces of that boy,"

"Are you going to rinse my mouth with soap or something? This is childish and-" Cara's words settled in a moan as Wesker began grinding a very defined length against her growing sickness. She tightened her legs around his waist, drawing him closer.

Trailing his nose across her skin, he followed the curve of her neck to the ear, taking the lobe between his teeth. She melted against him when his hot tongue entered her ear. His tongue plunged in and out repeatedly like a preview of what he could do to her. Her heart went on an overdrive.

"Just kiss me," Cara breathed, a tension building in her belly. She wanted to taste him. in addition to sparing any additional marks on her neck to hide.

"No,” nuzzling into her neck, he grinded harder against her, earning a series of moans.  

"You know who else wouldn't mind kissing me-" Wesker slammed his lips to hers, kissing her roughly, their teeth clashing. Cara melted further, a smile on her lips as her tongue danced with his. She savored everything, The taste of him, softness of his lips, his warmth, and the building friction between their bodies. There was nothing more she wanted.

Bang. Bang. Bang. Three gunshots were fired.

Cara was barely steady on her feet when Wesker dropped her to the ground, his eyes scanning their surroundings. What little they heard of the music was drowned out by distant screams of the partygoers.

"What's happening?" she questioned, grabbing his arm, but his attention was fixed on the barn.

"Stay here," Wesker warned, already talking to someone by an earpiece she hadn't noticed before.

With his gun ready, he took off, running towards the barn. Cara made to follow him but was pulled back towards the car by her hand.

The fucker handcuffed and left her in the middle of a junkyard in the dark.

[labyrinth-runner]

"I... Think I'm in love" with Dan?????

Okay, so I’m writing this one as a sequel to War of Hearts, because it just fit and I hope that’s okay.

Title: Love Heals

Word Count: 3000

Your wedding night was quiet. He helped you with the ties of your gown and then retired to his own room. The bed felt too big for just you alone as you tossed and turned trying to get comfortable. Eventually, you grew tired of it and slipped on your robe before padding down the hall.

You took a steeling breath before gently rapping your knuckles against the door.

The door was open in a matter of seconds and he was looking down at you with concern in his eyes, “Couldn’t sleep?”

“The bed is just...” you trailed off, looking down at your feet. You felt silly, standing in front of this stranger because you couldn’t sleep.

Gently, he tipped your chin back up so that you would look at him, “Would you like to sleep in here?” His voice was soft.

You allowed yourself to nod.

A small smile settled on his lips as he stepped aside for you to enter. 

Tucking your arms behind your back, you stepped into his candlelit room. You noted that his bed wasn’t turned down yet, meaning he hadn’t even gone to bed. As you turned back to him, you realized he was still in his suit.

“What were you doing before I knocked?” you asked curiously as you sat on the edge of the bed.

“I was writing to my estate to have them ready the manor for you,” he replied.

You swallowed the lump in your throat, “You want me to go to the manor without you?”

“It’s to be your home,” he said, brows furrowing.

“But you won’t be there,” you murmured.

“If you would like, you can host as many friends as you want,” he offered as he leaned against his desk.

If you were being honest, you weren’t sure you were ready to leave home and your parents. “How far away is it?”

“Two day’s ride,” he estimated. “It’s in upstate New York. I own an apple orchard.”

Somehow, you could see that. You rested your hands on your hips as you came over to him, “Am I expected to pick these apples?”

“Only if you want to eat or cook with them,” he smirked.

You smiled back, feeling the tension break. Then, you folded your hands in front of you. “When do you have to go back to the frontline?”

“At the end of the week,” he replied, gently reaching forward to take your hands in his. They were warm and slightly rough against your skin as he dragged his thumb back and forth across the backs of your hand.

“You should get some rest,” you said softly, taking your hands back. Your hands trembled slightly as you reached up to unbutton his vest. “At the very least, you should get more comfortable.”

“You don’t have to do that,” he said, taking your hand and kissing your finger tips. “Get some sleep. I’ll join you when I finish this letter.”

You withdrew from him, slightly in relief, and slightly in disappointment. Gingerly, you took your robe off and hung it off the bed post before slipping into bed. After closing your eyes, you let the soft sound of his pen dragging across a page lull you to sleep.

The days passed by swiftly. It wasn’t nearly enough time to truly get to know your husband. Soon enough, you found yourself at the train station about to say goodbye.

“Well, this next one is mine,” he murmured as you stood there on the platform.

“Will you write to me?” you asked, a little too eagerly.

“If you wish it,��� he said with a slight smile. “Although, I don’t suppose that my stories of war would be pleasant to hear.”

“If you don’t wish to talk about war, then romance me instead,” you shot back.

A slight tinge of pink settled into his cheeks. “Alright, Mrs. Torrance. I think I can do that.”

Mrs. Torrance. It was like an arrow to your heart.

His train pulled up to the station and he gave you an apologetic look. “I wish we had more time.”

“Win the war and you’ll be back before you know it,” you replied with a soft smile. “Be safe, Captain Torrance.”

“I’ll try to come back to you in one piece,” he said, taking your hand and giving it a squeeze.

It wasn’t enough for the occasion. He was going off to fight and you might never see him again. Sure, you barely knew him and had only been married for a week, but a hand squeeze was not enough for the gravity of the situation. You tipped up on your toes to kiss his cheek, letting your lips linger on his skin for a moment more than you would have a week ago.

“Good bye, Captain,” you said as you pulled back.

“Good bye, my dear,” he grinned before saluting the superior officer ushering troops onto the train.

You stayed on the platform longer than necessary, not moving from your spot until the train was far into the distance and had disappeared around the bend. Then, you got into the carriage with all your things atop it and rode for your new home.

                                 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The manor sprawled in front of you. An orchard engulfed the horizon around the house and you could not help the smile on your face. It was so much grander than he had told you. 

As the carriage pulled up the drive, you let a small chuckle escape your lips. This was your home? It was so much more than you could have imagined. Stepping out of the carriage, the cool, crisp air filled your lungs. It was so much cleaner than the city.

Hired help unloaded your bags into the manor as you went up the stairs of the porch. 

“Mrs. Torrance, this was left for you,” the butler said before handing you a letter.  

You took it, walking absentmindedly through the house as you explored.  

Eventually, you happened upon what you figured was your husband’s study. Books lined the walls and a large brown mahogany desk sat amidst it all. You ran your hand along the leather chair before sitting down and opening the letter.

Dear wife,

If you’re reading this, then you have arrived at Helen Rivington Estate without me. It’s something I would have liked to avoid. After all, I should have carried you across the threshold as any husband ought. I can only hope that absence will make the heart grow fonder. In lieu of my physically being there, I thought I would leave you a little hunt around the grounds to show you my favorite places.

Until we meet again,

Dan

You flipped the letter over and found a series of clues. A grin broke across your face as you started off on your quest.

The hunt took you all around the estate as you found little clues and poems that let you get to know the man you had married more and more. By the end of it all, you found yourself in a secret library behind the room you’d started in. Light streamed in through a stained glass window, coating a plush chair in a warm glow. If the room outside was your husband’s study, then this would be your special place that you could go to be close to him when he needed to work.

You sat down on the chair and started to pen your first letter to him, telling him all about your day’s adventures. Words flowed freely with more ease than earlier that week. You were comfortable with who you were, and what it would be like to be Mrs. Torrance.

It was the first letter of many that the two of you sent back and forth for months while he was away. With each stroke of the pen you fell more and more in love with him. Rarely did he ever mention the war, true to his earlier statement. Although, sometimes you wish he had. You wanted to know what life was like for him. You wanted to share in his struggles and emotional hardships. 

Every response contained a small couplet of a poem that he wrote for you, usually based upon the contents in your letter. However, they always made you smile. Although he wasn’t home, his letters made it feel as if he were only a moment away at all times. It made the loneliness of the vast estate and the quiet of your bedchambers more bearable as it filled with your laughter at his words.

And then the letters stopped.

You weren’t sure if it was something you had done or if something had happened, but you went through your days with a pit in your stomach. Something was wrong, but you didn’t know what. Weeks without correspondence turned to months and you found yourself retreating back into your worries and sadness. Part of you debated returning home to surround yourself with those you knew and loved.

The idea was growing more and more appealing as the seasons changed and you found yourself pulling the shawl tighter around yourself as you walked in the orchard. You had sent staff home for the season and were walking through the rows of trees with a basket in hand. Absentmindedly, you picked apples and placed them into the basket, letting the silence surround you.

Then you heard it.

The familiar clip clop of horses hooves up the gravel drive. 

You stood in disbelief, sure that you were hearing things until you saw the carriage come down the drive. The basket fell from your hands and you hiked up your skirts. You scrambled over fallen apples and tree roots to get back up the drive. 

Your heart hammered in your chest as you took in the body on the back of the cart. 

“No,” you whispered, dropping your gown. You walked towards the carriage in a haze.

“Ma’am, are you Mrs. Torrance?” the man driving the cart asked.

“Yes,” you breathed as he came to a stop.

The man nodded and got into the back of the carriage. “Come on, Danny. You’re home,” he said as he pulled a man up into a position so that he could help him walk.

You let out a breath of relief. He’s alive. Then, you rushed over to help the man carry your husband into the house. Together, the two of you managed to get him into bed.

“What happened?” you asked the man who had brought him.

“The Captain was sent sprawling from canon fire after being shot in the arm. We were deep in the South for weeks. I’m surprised he lasted as many skirmishes as he did. Then, he got hit down in Georgia. The camp doc was able to get the bullet out of his arm and disinfect it. It won’t go green on you, but he can’t shoot in this condition. If he can’t shoot, he’s better off staying home,” the man explained. “Besides, the doc said that being home with his lovely wife would recover him faster than seeing our ugly mugs.”

You had to crack a smile at that.

“Ma’am, if I may be so bold,” the man replied, “Your husband is one of the bravest men I’ve ever known. I wish him a speedy recovery.”

“Thank you,” you murmured, seeing the other man out the door. 

After he left, you returned to the side of the bed with some fresh water and cloths. Gently, you dabbed at your husband’s face, cleaning off the dirt and ash that had settled there.

“I must look like a mess,” he murmured, eyes still closed.

“No worse than when I married you,” you teased.

“You wound me more than any bullet could,” he smirked, opening his eyes to look at you. They softened as he saw the worry lines etched on your face. Gently, he reached up with his good arm to swipe away a tear you hadn’t noticed.

You covered his hand with your own, leaning into his touch. “When you didn’t respond,” you sniffled, “I thought the worst. I thought you were killed or that you regretted this.”

“Oh, sweetheart, never,” he sighed, rubbing his thumb along your cheek. “I promised you I’d come back.”

“In one piece, Captain,” you shot back.

“Dan,” he smirked. “If you’re going to yell at me, at least use my given name.”

You couldn’t stay mad at him. It was in that moment that you realized, full and truly that you loved him. Yet, in the back of your mind, you remembered all the constraint of your wedding night and the distance he had purposely put between the two of you.

“We’ve got to clean you up,” you replied. “If your face is this dirty, I can’t imagine what the rest of you is like.”

Dan winced as you helped him sit up before gently starting to disrobe his torso. 

Avoiding eye contact, you set to work smoothing a clean cloth over his body, working in slow circles to clear the caked on dirt and grime. 

“You’re holding your breath,” you murmured, looking up at him through your lashes as you focused on his chest.

“You’re so close,” he replied.

“I’m your wife,” you said with a chuckle, “Is it so wrong that I am close?”

“No,” he swallowed, “I’m just not used to it.”

You nodded, finishing up your work. “I’ll wash your uniform. Let me just find you some replacement clothes first.”

“I can dress myself,” he quickly said.

You gave him a skeptical look. “If you need me, call for me. I should start dinner soon.”

He nodded, watching you as you left.

As the door clicked shut behind you, a feeling of disappointment washed over you. It wasn’t a flat out rejection, but it felt like one. Perhaps you were overthinking it. You shoved it aside and decided to work at the matter at hand, nursing your husband back to health.

                                       ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Over the next couple of weeks, the two of you grew closer. You’d talk in the sun room over tea; you’d read together in the study; you even showed him how you had redecorated the secret library to suit your interests. Discussion flowed just as easily now as it had in your letters. Yet, every time you’d make physical progress towards intimacy, he’d pull back. 

It was infuriating. 

One day, while you were picking apples in the fields together, you confronted him. “Why do you always pull away when I get close?”

Dan stopped a few paces behind you while still holding the basket, “What do you mean?”

“Whenever I get too close to you, you pull away. It’s like we take three steps forward and two steps back,” you sighed, turning back to face him. Gently, you took the basket from him and placed it on the ground to take his hand. 

He interlocked his fingers with yours, “I don’t always.”

“Dan,” you murmured. “I....think I’m in love.”

He dropped your hand and shook his head. “You can’t mean that.”

“I can, and I do,” you pleaded.

He was pulling away yet again, but this time you wouldn’t let him. Gripping the collar of his shirt, you pulled him down to your level and kissed him. To your surprise, he started to kiss back. His arm snaked around your waist to pull you flush against him before he pinned you to a tree. His hand came up to cup the side of your face as he deepened the kiss. Your mind was racing as you registered the feeling of his soft lips against yours. How someone could kiss in such a loving, yet passionate way was new to you. Eventually, you broke the kiss for air.

“I thought you didn’t-” you started.

“I love you,” Dan said sincerely.

“But-”

He gave you another quick kiss. “I know you didn’t want this, so I didn’t want to push you.”

“I didn’t at first,” you admitted, leaning your head back against the tree trunk to look up at him. “But, then I got to know you and I fell in love with you.”

“Oh?” he asked with a large grin on his face. 

“Yes,” you grinned back. “I’m proud to be Mrs. Torrance.”

Without warning, he scooped you up in his arms. 

“Danny!” you laughed as you wrapped your arms around his neck. “What are you doing?”

“If you remember correctly, I told you that I wanted to carry you into our home when you moved in here,” Dan told him. “I plan to do that.”

You rested your head on his shoulder. “I won’t protest.”

He carried you through the house and towards the bedroom. As he opened the door with his back, you heard the distant sound of bells.

“What’s that about?” you asked curiously.

Dan beamed as he looked down at you. “The war’s over. Those are the celebration bells.”

“So you’re home for good now?” you asked, trying to keep the obvious glee from your voice.

“I’m home for good,” he grinned before kissing you deeply as he lowered you to the bed.

[shsl-otaku]

Where Greed Goes, Despair Follows: Chp. 11

Y/N: Raven Sin of Despair

Pairing: Ban & Y/N

Anime: Seven Deadly Sins

Genre: Adventure, Romance

Warnings: None

Tag List: @asgleo16 @yuri-2018 @vialuciferscage @commanderawkward @chidayasays @misfitgirlwrites @amberfoxcosplay @catlover7722 @shiggi-trash @supremetodoroki @happynoodle @remikay313 @milkysamu @kageyamis

•••

"Meliodas, Elizabeth, and Diane just entered Baste Prison," you said, your right red eye glowing brightly. You and Ban had been wandering around the prison after you both had "taken care" of the Holy Knight a few moments ago.

Ban raised an eyebrow. "Elizabeth? I don’t remember an Elizabeth being with us ten years ago."

"You’ll find out soon enough," you said, rolling your eyes. You were smiling nonetheless.

Ban smirked as he noticed that you were you smiling. "Hey, let’s make this more fun," he said.

You turned your head to look at him. "What do you mean?"

He only gave you a canine grin in response when you left yourself get lifted up.

"W-WHAT THE—?! HEY! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING," you shrieked, holding onto Ban’s shoulders as he suddenly picked you up bridal style.

"What does it look like?" He asked, grinning at you. "Making this more fun! Besides, you said that they’re here looking for us, right?"

"DON’T YOU DARE DROP ME," you yelled, your cheeks starting to get red as you tightly gripped onto Ban’s shoulders. He grinned wider in response.

“Hold on tight, Princess," he teased, getting ready to sprint. You squeezed your eyes shut, ignored the blush that was blazing on your cheeks, and wrapped your arms tightly around his neck.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH—"

•••

"You sure she’s in this tower?" Meliodas asked, standing in front of the entrance to one of the prison towers.

"I’m sure," Diane replied, looking into the entrance. "He didn’t look like the kind of soldier who could lie to my face."

"He didn’t?" Meliodas asked, looking up at her. He then looked down to gaze at an unconscious, injured Elizabeth who was sleeping in Diane’s backpack. "Thanks, Elizabeth."

"That’s weird, the place is completely deserted," Diane said, stepping into the tower.

"Maybe my knocking that Holy Knight airborne did a number on them," Meliodas suggested, walking ahead of Diane.

"Bunch of wimps," Hawk grumbled, trotting next to Meliodas.

"I hope Y/N didn’t go berserk on them. That would be a very big problem," Meliodas said, placing his finger on his thumb. Hawk shrieked at Meliodas’ comment.

•••

"Looks like they’ve gone inside," Jericho said, standing at a far distance away from the prison. She turned to look at the person next to her. "What are your orders, Sir Golgius?"

The Holy Knight stepped forward. "I will admit that I am impressed. But your strength has only brought an agonizing death upon yourselves." He held out a black bead with a spell inscribed on it.

"That’s a... spell bead?!" Jericho gasped, looking at the black bead.

The Holy Knight suddenly threw the bead onto the ground, a dark purple cloud flowing out from it. It wrapped itself around the entire prison like a tight blanket.

Jericho’s breath hitched in her throat. "That’s—"

"An eternal sealing spell," Sir Golgius finished. "An indestructible magic quarantine barrier so powerful that they couldn’t break it even if they had ten Tyrant Dragons."

Jericho shuddered at the memory of you, your glowing red eyes, your terrifying smile, the blood. 'Will that spell really hold her in there? What is she?'

The Holy Knight laughed to himself. "The Sins will wither away to nothing inside this locked cage."

•••

"This is her. This is the doctor’s daughter. No doubt about it," Hawk said, looking at the unconscious girl in the prison cell.

"Let’s get her out," Meliodas said. He turned to look at Diane, who was lying down and peaking into the hallway because she couldn’t fit. "Got room in your backpack?"

"Yep, no problem," Diane replied. The doctor’s daughter started to stir awake. She screamed when she saw Diane’s huge hand reach for her cell door. Diane pulled the cell door off the wall.

"Is she okay?" Hawk asked, looking at a now unconscious doctor’s daughter and an unconscious Elizabeth sleeping in her backpack.

"Yeah, she’s only passed out," Diane said, closing her backpack. "Now we just have to look for Y/N—"

They heard footsteps approaching them and turned around to see a silhouette walking towards them, who seemed to be carrying something.

Ban walked out of the shadows, carrying you bridal style. You still had your arms wrapped around his neck. Your eyes widened when you met Meliodas’ gaze.

"Ban?" Meliodas said, looking at him.

"Captain?" Ban said, looking back at him.

They glared at each other, tension spreading between the two. Ban held you tighter to his chest. You looked up at Ban, an unreadable expression on your face. He kept his eyes on Meliodas.

"Why am I getting a nasty vibe right after they’re reunited?" Hawk said, sweat dropping. "I’ve got a bad feeling about this."

"Y/N," Ban said, not looking away from Meliodas. He shifted you in his arms so that he has holding you behind his back. "Hold onto me."

You wrapped your legs around his waist and your arms around his neck, looking at Meliodas. You felt Ban hold your legs to keep you steady.

Diane looked at you and giggled, remembering to ask you all about it when they get back. Her smile was replaced with a deadpan and she looked at Hawk. "You’re right. You should probably get behind me." Hawk shrieked in fear.

Meliodas and Ban continued glaring at each other, the tension growing between the two. You held onto Ban tighter, resting your chin on his shoulder. He flashed you a smirk and turned to glare at Meliodas. The tension grew so thick that you could cut it with a butter knife when—

"BAN!" Meliodas yelled, throwing his arms up and smiling widely.

"CAPTAIN!" Ban yelled, putting his hands up. You smiled widely and laughed.

They ran to each other like two best friends reuniting after a weekend. They started double-high-fiving each other rapidly, you laughing your head off at them.

"What the hell? It’s like they’re best friends! And Y/N is over there on that guys’ back laughing at them!" Hawk said, gawking at the three of you.

"CAPTAIN," Ban yelled in delight, slamming his fists into Meliodas’ stomach, causing him to crash and break through multiple walls. You cackled as Ban was laughing his head off in joy.

"Captain! Us next!" Ban yelled, laughing and jumping like a giddy child. You cackled at the sight of it, tears gathering in the corners of your eyes. Ban switched you around so that he was carrying you bridal style again. You wrapped your arms around his neck, smiling widely.

Meliodas jumped up and head butted Ban’s stomach, causing him to crash and break through multiple walls. Ban held you tightly to his chest to keep you from getting injured. You held onto him and you two laughed and screamed as you crashed through the walls of the prison.

"Eh?! He brought Y/N with him!" Hawk shrieked.

"Just go with it," Diane said, sighing.

Meliodas, you, and Ban were all laughing and smiling widely. You had tears starting to fall from your eyes from how hard you were laughing.

"What the hell, man? I thought you’d have gone soft," Ban laughed, standing up from the pile of rubble that was once a wall. You laughed at him, still in his arms.

"Oh come on, Ban. You expect Meliodas out of all people to go soft?" You said, laughing. He grinned at you.

"You’re just as soft as ever," Meliodas replied, smiling. The prison started to crack from all the walls that were destroyed. All three of you looked at each other and grinned.

Ban and Meliodas joined hands and got on the ground, getting ready to arm wrestle. You laid beside them as their referee, smiling in anticipation.

"Ready?" You yelled, smiling as Ban smirked at Meliodas and Meliodas smiled back widely at him. "Go!"

They started arm wrestling, you laughing your head off at them. The walls of the prison started to crumble because of them, causing the whole prison to shake.

"What’s happening?!" Hawk shrieked.

“Those three have always been like that.” Diane said, smiling at you three.

"Been like what?!" Hawk said.

"Honestly, men are so immature," Diane said dreamily. "Y/N either gets them back in line or joins them."

"Out of 720 matches against you, I’ve won 361, as I recall," Ban said, grinning.

"You must be out of it," Meliodas retorted, smiling. "I’ve won 361!"

"Gentlemen, gentlemen," you chimed in. "Let’s settle this AFTER we’re done with this one. Just focus on winning already!"

The floor of the prison crumbled apart, sending all of you falling.

Ban and Meliodas yelled, still arm wrestling. You were still refereeing the match, whooping and laughing as you guys were falling.

"The Captain’s so cute when he gets all worked up," Diane squealed.

"This is hardly the time," Hawk shrieked, falling next to Diane.

•••

"The barrier!"

"Impossible!"

The Holy Knights gasped in disbelief as Baste Prison was crumbling before their eyes, the barrier shattering with it.

"This is the scope of the Sins’ power?!" Jericho gasped. Little did she know, this was just because of Meliodas, Ban, and Y/N playing around.

"T-Time for a strategic withdrawal," Sir Golgius said, vanishing.

"H-Hey, wait," Jericho said, running away.

•••

"Father," the doctor’s daughter exclaimed, hugging her father tightly.

"Oh, Sennett! Thank goodness you’re safe," he said, crying as he held his daughter.

You smiled while watching the two, feeling happy for their reunion. You felt an aura of joy, hope and relief around them, and smiled contentedly.

Hawk came and looked through the doorway and gasped. "H-He came back from the dead?!"

You whirled around and turned to look at Hawk. "Wait what?!"

"Look," the doctor said, looking at a large scar that was in the middle of his chest. You could feel remnants of some sort of magic left on it. It felt pure and loving.

"It’s just like what happened with Meliodas’ wound," Hawk said, gawking at the scar. You raised a brow at him.

"It is?" The doctor said. "I’m ashamed to say that I have no idea why I’m alive."

You walked out from the room, leaving the doctor and his daughter to talk to Meliodas. You walked to the Boar Hat, slightly tired from today’s events, since it felt like a very long day and was a long roller coaster of emotions for you.

"Hey, Diane," you said, looking up at her as she was looking into the window of Meliodas’ room.

"Oh! Hey, Y/N," Diane said. She turned to look at you and smiled. "I saw you and Ban earlier," she said, wiggling her eyebrows. You smiled and rolled your eyes.

"You must be happy to have him back," she said, smiling at you. You smiled and rubbed your arm.

"I feel like I’m on top of the world," you said, sighing happily.

"Yeah, well, you should go inside and find the ‘surprise’ waiting for you," Diane said, wiggling her eyebrows.

"Oh boy," you said, holding the bridge of your nose.

Diane’s eyes suddenly widened.

"Eh? Y/N, your eyes... One is red and the other is e/c."

Your eyes widened and you instinctively raised your hand to your right eye. "Oh." You ran into the Boar Hat without waiting for Diane to reply. You barged into your room just to see a sleeping Ban sprawled on your bed.

You felt a blush appear to your cheeks. You walked over to him and poked his head.

"Ban?" You whispered, poking his head. "Ban. Ban!"

He groaned and opened one eye to look at you. "What?" He groaned, sounding like he was still half asleep.

"What are you doing in my room?!" You whisper-screamed. He groaned and turned around so that his back was facing you. You blushed furiously and hid your face behind your hand.

"Captain said I could stay in here with you," He said, his words slightly slurred. "It’s comfy in here."

You rolled your eyes and screamed into your hands. You walked to your closet and got an oversized, faded f/c shirt, soft baggy pants, and a towel, and brought them to the bathroom.

You took a shower to wash off all the dried blood and venom. You hissed as you washed your cuts and scratches and you whisper-screamed whenever you accidentally put pressure on a bruise. You washed all the blood from your hair. You got out from the bath and dried yourself off with your towel.

You put on your clothes and walked to your room. You opened the door quietly and saw Ban still sleeping on your bed. You looked out the window to see that it was still late afternoon.

Your legs suddenly collapsed underneath you, sending you crashing onto the floor.

"SHIT-"

You were sprawled on the ground, exhausted. Your cuts and scratches were burning and your bruises were throbbing. Your breath hitched in your throat when you felt your red right eye glow brighter.

"Y/N?" Ban groaned, sitting up from your bed.

"I’m fine! Just go back to sleep," you said.

His eyes widened when he saw you sprawled on the ground, injuries everywhere on you.

"Dumbass, why didn’t you tell me you were injured?" He hissed, kneeling down to pick you up.

"I was covered in blood when you saw me and you thought that I wasn’t injured?" You said, trying to not laugh. He scoffed and picked you up. He placed you gently on the bed and walked to your cabinet.

"Got any bandages?" He asked.

"First drawer," you said, hiding your face behind your hand.

He opened the drawer and got out a roll of bandages. He sat down on the bed next to you and began bandaging your cuts and scratches. You watched him silently, smiling softly at the concentrated expression he had on his face.

"Where did you even get these, you idiot?" He asked, bandaging cuts on your left arm.

You felt your heart leap into your throat. "I—uh..." He raises an eyebrow at you. You sighed. "I got attacked by a Holy Knight while I was on my way to Baste Prison."

"You what?" Ban said, looking up at you.

"It was one of the stupid Weird Fangs. She attacked me while I was running to come get you. She said that she wanted to kill you in front of me, but then said that your despair when you found out she killed me would suffice," you said, annoyance shown on your face. "She pissed me off and I killed her."

Ban looked at you, raising an eyebrow. "You got all that blood just from her?"

You rolled your eyes. "She was an ugly ass bug bitch that pissed me off. So, she gets to be executed. I don’t see a problem with that."

Ban laughed at your choice of words. He was already done with your left arms and legs and was now bandaging your right arm.

You both stayed silent for a bit, you watching as Ban bandaged your cuts.

"Hey," you whispered, making Ban look up at you.

"Hm?"

"I'm glad you're okay. I don't know what I'd do if they hurt you," you said, smiling softly. "Actually, I'd probably kill them right on the spot."

Ban laughed. "Yeah, they would've signed their death warrant if they pissed you off." You laughed as well.

"Done," he said, getting up from the floor. You looked at your now bandaged arms and legs. You blinked, surprised and impressed. 'I didn’t even notice he finished.'

"You know, you're pretty good at applying bandages. You know, for someone who doesn't use them," you said, smiling. Ban laughed, lightly pushing your shoulder.

"Should I sleep on the floor?" You offered, rubbing the back of your neck.

"Nah," he said, laying down on the bed next to you. He pulled you down so that you were facing his chest. He wrapped one of his legs around one of yours and your arms were the only thing that was in between you and him.

"This is fine," he said, eyes already closed.

Your eyes widened and your heart felt like it was going to explode. "W-What—!" He held you so that he was basically hugging you to his chest. He lazily put an arm under your head and another pulling you closer to him.

"Just go to sleep, Y/N. I'm tireddddd. I’ll wake you up before the party starts," he said, his words slurring already.

Your eyes were wide and your cheeks were blazing red. But fatigue started to catch up to you as soon as Ban said those words. You smiled softly to yourself as your eyes fluttered shut, feeling safe and warm.

'Best. Day. Of. My. Life.'

•••

wOw.

[my-emotional-self]

He Wasn’t Good Enough For You

Pairings: Chris Evans x Reader

Warnings: Swearing, Angst, Fluff

Trigger Warning: Domestic Violence

Request: Hi! Can I request a Chris x Reader fic with angst and fluff (romance too? Chris is in love with Reader.  There’s a trigger for implied domestic violence) where she is his personal assistant, but also a trusted friend.  One day he’s out with friends but she shakingly calls him because her boyfriend got violent thinking they slept together.  Chris is furious, goes immediately to get her but he calms down in order to assist her in everything after.  I hope it’s not too much but thank you anyway J

Requested By: Anonymous

Moving to Los Angeles three years ago, you were sure you would be stuck waitressing for the rest of your life; or end up moving back home.  You didn’t want to become an actress like many others did however. Instead, you wanted to become a personal assistant as that was what you had known was the best fit for you.  

You were organized, and loved helping people out; you were also a workaholic.  Lo and behold, even though you had no experience, you were called in for an interview to work with a high end actor and sure enough, you got the job.  

Working with Chris Evans had been a dream.  Not only was he such a patient, kind and passionate person, you also admired the work he had done throughout his career; the highs and the lows.  

Over last year you had been his personal assistant, the two of you had gotten closer, forming an extremely tight bond in the form of friendship.  You wouldn’t lie, he was also very handsome to look at and it didn’t help that he flirted with you.  That’s just the way he was; he was a natural flirter, but so were you.  

But, you had been in a serious relationship for the last year and two months.  You loved your boyfriend, but over the last few months, he began to assume that you and Chris were messing around on the side.  You had never cheated on a boyfriend, let alone your current boyfriend.  No matter how many times you tried to reason with him, he would just storm out of your shared house, only to come home and apologize to you.  

It didn’t help that you worked long hours, even well into the weekend; but yet again, you loved your job and you got paid very well.  Living in Los Angeles was expensive as you had learned and you wanted to work as much as you could to build a savings nest for yourself.  

If you were being honest with yourself, you had been thinking about breaking up with Blake when he began to accuse you of messing around with Chris.  But you gave him the benefit of the doubt, wanting to see if he could prove himself to you.  Yet were you starting to think that he would never drop his accusations against you.  

Chris had given you the next two days off; telling you that you worked hard enough and deserved some free time.  He was going to be out with friends so you took the opportunity to spend some quality time with your boyfriend.  

“Ugh, you smell like him,” Blake, your boyfriend said after he pulled away from hugging you that night you got home from work.  

Furrowing your brows, you couldn’t help but scoff at him.  “Smell like him?  What is that supposed to mean?”

Blake’s face turned red, his jaw clenching as he walked away from you.  “You damn well know what I mean Y/N!” he yelled, making you jump.  

“If you are insinuating that I was ‘with’ Chris, yet again, I’m sorry to tell you that you are WRONG Blake! How many times do I have to tell you that I haven’t slept with him?  YOU are my boyfriend!  I wouldn’t cheat on you!”

He turned to face you, marching towards your body and before you knew it, he raised his hand and slapped you across the face.  

Your face began to pulsate and heat up from the slap as you stared wide eyed and jaw slacked at his ministration.  Raising your hand up, you caressed your face, feeling a bruise beginning to form already from the family ring he wore on his finger.  

“How dare you raise YOUR voice to me!” he roared in your face as you flinched away from him.  “I don’t care what you fucking say.  I know your sleeping with him Y/N.  Just fucking admit it!  You’re a whore just like the rest of them!”

Tears began to fall from your eyes as you turned and raced towards the bathroom.  Quickly you locked the door behind you and you grabbed your phone from your back pocket.  

~~~

“She has a boyfriend guys. I can’t just try to sweep her off her feet!  I wouldn’t do that to someone who’s already dating somebody,” Chris said, taking a sip of his beer as he chatted with his friends in his backyard.  

“Yeah but dude, you are so in love with her,” one of his friends remarked.  

Chris smiled, thinking back to the time he had first met you.  He couldn’t fool himself; it really felt like love at first sight.  Your eyes are what done him in.  You had such beautiful eyes and when you smiled; your eyes lit up like a thousand stars.  

He knew you had been dating someone right from the moment he hired you.  But that couldn’t stop the feelings he began to have for you throughout the oncoming months.  The more time he spent with you, the more his feelings grew for you.  He couldn’t complain however, he was just happy to have a trusted friendship with you.  But what he wouldn’t give to have more.  

Chris’ phone began to ring as he apologized to his friends once he saw it was you.  Standing up, he moved to a more private area of his yard before answering.  

“Hello?”

“Ch-Chris,” you said shakily, your chin quivering as you tried your best to hold in your tears.  

“Y/N?  What’s wrong?”  He could hear the discomfort in your voice.  He had known you for a year now and could read you inside and out.  

“Blake,” you choked out, letting the sobs free.  “We…we had a fight.  And he thought you and I had been sleeping to-together.  He…” you were cut off by your own crying.

“Hey, hey take a deep breath sweetheart,” he soothed, but deep down, he was furious at Blake for making you cry this way.  

His endearment made your heart leap; they always did.  “He…he hit me Chris.  He slapped me across the face,” you cried out.  Blake began to pound on the door; his yelling could be heard by Chris through the phone.  

Chris’ free hand balled into a fist as he wanted to rip Blake’s throat out himself.  “I’ll be right there,” he growled out.  

~~~

After hanging up the phone, you clutched to your body as you sat on the floor against the wall; your blurry vision glued to the door, terrified that Blake was going to bust it down. “Go away!” you tried your best to scream but it came out like a choking sound with your sobs.  

In what felt like eternity, the pounding finally stopped, but then you heard Chris’ angry voice echo from outside the door.  

“Where the fuck is she?” You heard pounding feet, before a soft knocking on the door.  “Y/N, it’s me, Chris.  Open up.”

Shakily you got up on both feet before moving to the door slowly.  Unlocking it, you opened it to see Chris standing before you.  You couldn’t help yourself as you leaped into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably into his chest as his arms wrapped protectively around you.  

He bent down, picking you up and carrying you bridal style through the house.  Everything was a blur, but you soon smelt the fresh air and you knew you were outside.  

Chris placed you down onto the gravel of the driveway, leaning up against his car.  Opening your eyes, you saw the worried look in his as your hand gripped his waist; not wanting to let you go.  

His hands were placed on your face, tilting it to get a better view.  He saw the small bruise forming under your left eye and wanted nothing more than to go back inside and kill Blake; but he had to be strong for you.

“I’m-I’m so so-sorry,” you hiccupped out.  

“Sweetheart why are you sorry?  You have nothing to be sorry about.”

You looked up into his worry filled eyes.  “Because I rui-ruined your guys night.”

Chris shook his head, giving out a strangled laugh before wrapping you in his arms.  “Baby don’t even worry about that.”  Pulling away he wrapped your face in his hands again. “Y/N, he wasn’t good enough for you. He never was.  You deserve so much better than him.”

“I don-don’t know where to go right now.  Where am I go-gonna live?”

“You come home with me. I have enough room for you to stay for as long as you need.”

Leaning forward you wrapped him in a hug; his arms around you making you feel safe and secure for the first time in months.  This is what you were supposed to feel like in a relationship.  This was the kind of love and attention you were supposed to get.

You had always felt like Chris had some sort of feelings for you; more than friendship. Maybe now with Blake out of the picture, something better would come along your way.  

Tag List: @badassbaker @guera31 @tanelle83 @xjjlex @chrisevansfanfic @princess-evans-addict @pumbibaby @joannie95 @patzammit @brastrangled @mrs-captain-evans @notyourtypicalrose @sfreeborn @esoltis280 @xxloki81xx @bornfortherainydays @poerebel @livslookingforloki @raveviolet @southerngracela @the-wayward-robot @scuzmunkie @cinna-minseok

[minhoslut]

♡ summary: Reader is traded to a band of pirates in return for the safety of her village because of her plant magic. They are not like she expected, much more like her than she could even imagine in fact. This is a journey through their relationships and the high seas they sail on.

♡ pairing: superm x fem!reader, superm x eachother

♡ chapter: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | ? |

♡ series warnings: blood mention, injury mention, swearing, anxiety, death mention, depression, weapons, mxm

♡ series genre: romance, smut, angst

♡ series rating: Mature

♡ word count: 2261

♡ posted on: AO3

♡ chapter four: ice cold

Baekhyun returned with the entirety of the main crew whom you'd met, all of them taking a seat on various lower bunks, avoiding you beside Taemin, while the captain stop at the doorway. "It seems that hiding information was not the correct course of action. It was meant to soothe you rather than cause more harm." Jongin began slowly, watching your reaction carefully. "How could I be happy on a boat like this with a bunch of pirates? You took me from my home!" You huff, what kind of stupid logic was that. "Well, we were looking for you to complete our crew." You stared at him blankly, "What do you mean complete? How am I supposed to fit in here?" Jongin smiled, "Well if you stopped interrupting me, I could tell you." You snapped your mouth shut and he continued, "Good girl, now as I was saying, you were sought after rather than just randomly taken. All of us, in this room, are like you, we each have a power." What? How could that be? You were cursed, did they meet the same fate? You were nearly bursting with questions but you figured he would explain more if you said nothing. "Baekhyun is water, Taeyong is animals, Lucas is metal, Ten is fire, Mark is crafting, Taemin is light, and finally I am weather." You looked at each of them as Jongin listed off their powers, eyes landing back on the man speaking in the end. "Our powers are quite helpful in our trading business, it's the reason we all have such odd hair as well."

Not able to hold it back anymore you blurt out a question, "Ok, but what does that have to do with me? And I'd hardly call you traders your pirates for fucks sake." Jongin smirked. "You are the eighth person with powers such as ours. For many years we were under the impression there were no others until we heard rumour of you. I'm sorry that we took you from your home but I have a feeling that you didn't have many ties there other than, based on your power, a garden." It was annoying how accurate he was in his analysis, and the stupid smirk on his face made it more annoying since he knew you couldn't say anything. "As for trading, we have different ways of going about our trading, but we trade with mostly other pirates anyway, on pirate ports. We simply don't wait to trade for valuable or rare things when we could just take it from those who are not pirates." You narrow your eyes, "So you're looking down on everyone who isn't a pirate? You think you can ruin peoples lives just because?" Jongin shook his head at your words, "We would never steal from a good person or someone without much to give. Think more like kings and palaces that have many jewels for no reason, we simply take them away to be used." You scoffed, it was a stupid excuse, but they were pirates so you didn't expect them to see how wrong it was. "Regardless, I didn't want to come." You snap. Mark rolled his eyes and gave an annoyed sighed, "That's why we just took you dumbass."

"Mark." Jongin shot the smaller man a sharp look, which silenced him immediately, leaving him pouting like a puppy. "It's unfortunate that we had to take you, but there wasn't really a way for us to ask you to join, we have a reputation to uphold." You shook your head in disbelief, they were really going to brush it off just like that. "Y/N, I know it's hard to understand but we all have our reasons..." Taemin said, his hand still rubbing gentle circles on your back. You sighed, at least they were being honest now but you still felt angry about the situation. "It's not home yet, but hopefully you find yourself able to relax here eventually. I'd like to tell you to not go anywhere alone, I trust the men in this room, but the rest of the crew can be, less pleasant." Jongin said, bringing your attention back to him.

"This will never be my home, this is a prison. I still hate my magic and I still hate it here. I still hate all of you." Your sharp words filled the room with ice. "That may be the case, but maybe we can teach you more about your powers and you could hate them less." Baekhyun said, sadness lacing his voice as he looked at you. Regret bubbled in your heart despite your minds protest. "Regardless of everything, you are here now and we will keep you safe and healthy while you're with us." Jongin said firmly, then he called for Mark to leave with him, leaving you with the five other men in a very uncomfortable silence.

"Taemin, could help me up on my bed please?" You asked softly, thoroughly exhausted by your tears and the conversation. Your mind was racing with all the information, trying to process it and sort it out in your head. "Of course." Taemin said, standing and interlocking his hands and offering you a step up onto the bed. Once you are on the bed, you pull the blanket over your body and curl up into a ball in the farthest corner. Everything about this situation is hurting you, and none of them seem to understand that.

You listen to the hushed whispers of the crew after they assume you've fallen asleep, you can tell they are talking about you because you hear the words 'plant' and 'girl.' Tears fell from your eyes as you curled even deeper into yourself, you didn't want to be here anymore, not on this ship, not on this Earth.

~

When you woke up the next morning the cabin was empty save for Ten who was sitting on Marks bed reading a book. You sat up, wrapping yourself in the blanket. "You're up? Do you want to get food?" The maroon haired man asked you, his voice gentle. Shaking your head you laid back down and stared at the ceiling, listening to the door shut behind Ten as he left to get food for himself. After a few moments of quiet, you sat up once more and carefully hopped off the bed. You thought of last night when the captain had told you not to leave alone, but you couldn't stand to be in the room any longer. Pulling the door open you headed to the main deck, finding it almost empty since most of the crew was eating. You walked straight to the edge of the ship and leaned over the side to watch the waves crash against the boat.

The ocean had always scared you, even before you'd been cursed. You avoided it as much as you could when you'd lived on the island, never learning to swim and spending your time as far inland as you could while still doing your work. The ocean was loud and dark and vast, a never-ending abyss of huge waves, dangerous storms, and creatures unknown. And now here you were, in the middle of that horrible ocean, staring into the darkness of the waters and feeling the salty air chill as the clouds ahead turned dark. You leaned farther over the edge stepping on tiptoe, the mist of ocean spray covering your skin. Breathing in deeply you lean even farther, nearly unbalanced as the ocean looms ever closer.

"Y/N!" A voice shouts your name and you are yanked away from the edge of the ship in a hurry. You scramble to pull out of the grip of the person who is holding you, but they simply turn you in their grasp. Lucas' dark brown eyes stared into your own as you relax in his hold now that you know it's not a random crew member. "What were you doing you could have fallen in?" Lucas sounded genuinely worried about your safety and you felt like a small child being chastised. "I was just thinking." You said softly, looking away from his eyes. Lucas sighed, "You aren't supposed to go around alone anyway, you should have come to the dining hall to get one of us. You knew we were there." You huff, "Wouldn't that still be going somewhere alone? Where's the logic in that." Lucas stares at you a moment before he begins to laugh. It's a loud and boisterous laugh that has you trying to conceal the smile that is twitching at your lips. "Well, let's get you to Baekhyun, it's his turn to have you shadow him."

You sighed, not looking forward to it. Baekhyun had sounded so sad last time you'd seen him and you had a feeling that would carry over to today. You shouldn't be so concerned for one of the men who kidnapped you but you couldn't help it. Following the tall man, you reached the captains quarters where Lucas knocked lightly. You heard shuffling in the room and then the door was opened by Baekhyun who was doing up the buttons on his shirt. His eyes flitted to yours for an instance but you saw the sadness that they held. "We are headed to the maps room today, checking our distance for the next port." Baekhyun said plainly, then started walking away quickly, making you run slightly to catch up with him. It was silent as you walked, observing the blue-haired man as he walked ahead of you. He held himself with confidence and a sense of power, his shoulders set and head held high, subtly commanding the respect of those around him.

You soon reached a small room with a large desk in the center, that was covered in many pieces of parchment and some strange objects you didn't recognize. Baekhyun gestured to one of the chairs that were in the room so you sat in it while he moved the things on the desk around. We should be nearing port in the next day or so, so I need to make sure we are where we should be." He explained, but there was no real emotion in his voice. You sat quietly while he used the strange tools and held them against the maps, comparing lengths in ways that made absolutely no sense to you. Baekhyun made no attempts at conversing with you, and it wasn't in the way a person would when they are overly focused. It was an empty drawn-out silence that you hated. He must be really upset about last night... Your heart twinged at the thought. "Baekhyun?" You tried cautiously, but you were ignored. "Baekhyun?" You said again, a bit stronger but still no response. "Baek-" - "Y/N I don't want to talk ok?" You snapped your mouth shut, feeling hurt by the cold words.

The rest of the day was spent watching Baekhyun check the map and then following him out onto the main deck while he made sure everyone was doing what was needed to prepare for docking the next day. He hadn't spoken a word to you since he'd said not to talk, and you'd given up on trying since the silence hurt less than the words did at least. In the evening it was mealtime again, but you still didn't want anything, the day with Baekhyun had only added to the turmoil inside of you and made your appetite disappear. You tried to go to the room but Baekhyun had given a stern look before nodding his head towards the table so in the end you were sitting at the table beside Taeyong and Jongin at the head as usual. Taeyong had apparently lost at seat picking since he ended up beside you, you could hear him mumbling under his breath when he'd sat down.

You focused on your hands in your lap during the meal, picking at the skin around your nails. "/N? Y/N!" You looked up at the person saying your name and found Ten waving his hand in front of you. "You haven't eaten today." He stated plainly, "Not hungry." You answered simply, returning your gaze to your now bleeding cuticles. "Come back to the room with me then, we have an early morning together." Ten said, standing up and walking towards the door. You must be shadowing him tomorrow, so you got up and went after him. He led you to a room you hadn't been in yet that was filled with bandages and had a simple cot in it. "Hands." He said and you held them out to him. Ten made a clicking noise with his tongue then grabbed a roll of cloth and wrapped each of your fingers with it. "There, now you won't make them any worse." He said returning the leftover cloth to a shelf. "Thanks..." You said softly, feeling embarrassed by having someone care for your injury

Ten turned on his heel and exited the room, so you did as well, making your way back to the bunks. Ten gave you a step up onto your bed before heading over to his, but before he got up he removed his shirt putting the smooth expanse of his skin on display to you. You felt your cheeks warm as you watched the muscles in his back move, quickly turning your head when Ten had jumped up on his bed and turned to face you. "Sleep well." You heard him say softly before the room was enveloped in silence.

[fanfic-scribbles]

Trade Up

Fandom: MCU Captain America/Avengers

Summary: You always thought meeting your soulmate would be a humdrum affair, but he does what he does best and saves you.

Quick facts: Romance – Sam Wilson/Reader – Nondescript Reader

Warnings: Fluff, soulmate fic where your soulmates words are on your skin, jumps POV momentarily from Reader-focused perspective to a wider perspective ((marked like so)), they/them pronouns for Reader

Words: 1667

A/N: This story is interesting in that I wrote it and lost it and found it and lost it again and I just found it again so I typed it up real fast so at least I don’t have to tear my belongings apart just to know where it went. I like this one; it is pretty by-the-numbers but sometimes you just wanna grab a glass of Sam-Wilson-saving-you-from-a-terrible-date and sink into a warm bath of and-they-were-soulmates. Cheers.

     You think the people who say they’ll never date again are incredibly valid. After tonight, you might become one of them.

“I know you won’t understand, but I’ll try to simply it for you…”

You understand that, with soulmates and all, some people find dating to be a waste of time. You don’t expect those people to be on a website for ‘frivolous’ dating. And yet here you are, with a man who had seemed nice in emails and a brief phone conversation, but who currently cannot seem to care less about making even a decent impression.

God; you’re pretty sure someone at the table to your left is live-tweeting this, from how they’re snickering over their phone with their friends, and looking at you and your date every now and then. They’re not the only table stealing glances, but they are the most blatant about it. It’s telling that you’re pretty sure that you’re pretty sure that’s Captain America sitting a couple of tables away and yet no one is talking about him or his group of equally attractive friends. Even they are focused on you, especially the really cute guy on his left, which just figures, doesn’t it.

Your date is still talking and you trace the condensation on your glass of mostly-untouched water. You’ve moved past the stage of embarrassment where you want to crawl under the table and die. You’ve tried your excuses, they’ve all failed, and you’ve accepted this is your life for the evening and you’re just waiting for it to end. Hopefully without much more notice.

  ((Meanwhile…))

  “I've never heard someone talk that much,” Natasha mutters under her breath. “And I’ve sat with Tony while he was on the verge of a panic attack.”

Sam frowns and Steve’s jaw clenches even tighter. Bucky and Sharon trade long-suffering looks. “Stop it,” Bucky says when Steve’s arm tenses.

“That guy’s a dick,” Steve says, not taking his eyes from you. “I’ve gotta do something.”

“And embarrass them more by causing a scene?” Sharon says.

“You're not a skinny little nobody anymore,” Natasha adds. “You go over there and it’s going to be a story. Worse, it might make that asshole sympathetic. Does it look like that poor person wants that sort of attention?”

Sam watches as you hunch under the attention already given and look longingly at the black screen of your phone. “I’m with Steve on this one,” Sam says.

Bucky rolls his eyes and takes a drink. “Of course you are; you’re just like him.”

“Look,” Natasha says. “If he gets up again I’ll go ask if they want help. Until then, you two sit your asses down. Am I clear?”

Sam and Steve both frown deeply but they nod. Natasha sits back and watches them shrewdly. Sharon nods at Bucky. “At least self-preservation seems to have kicked in.”

“For now,” Bucky says, mirroring Natasha almost exactly.

Sharon hides a smile in her glass, but a look meant to evaluate ‘the situation’ is caught by Natasha, who gives her a sharp glare as well.

“Three of them,” Bucky mutters in Russian.

“God help us,” Natasha says and downs her drink.

  ((Back at the table…))

  “Everybody’s too damn focused on soulmates these days.”

You think he’s about to go off on another rant that will inevitably turn offensive, but he’s actually quiet. You’re so startled by the prospect of actual engagement that you trip over your tongue. “Not– not any more than they have been, I think. In fact–”

“I’m seeing a lot less people on the dating scene these days,” he says. “And so many people are all–” he goes into a mocking falsetto, “‘I’m waiting for my other piece.’ Ugh.” He takes a drink. “Or ‘pieces’ depending on whether they got the ‘harlot’s mark,’ you know?”

You haven’t heard that term from anyone other than really old bigots and you actually flinch. “That’s a gross–”

“I mean, it’s like nobody knows how to have fun anymore,” he says. “The whole point of having a soulmate is that someone’s always going to take you no matter what. Why doesn’t everyone do that?”

From ‘harlot’s mark’ to ‘why doesn’t everyone fuck around.’ You wish you could be surprised by this shift in attitude, but he’s spent almost the whole date justifying why he’s fine and the rest of the world is wrong. Still, you have a bad feeling as to why he’s bringing this up. “Um…not everyone is cool with it, I guess,” you say cautiously.

“Doesn’t matter.” He knocks back his drink and flags for yet another. “If they’re your soulmate they’re stuck with you. That’s fate.”

That’s not true and as sorry as you feel for his soulmate, you hope he learns that lesson the hard way (if only for their sake). But then he smirks at you. “It’s good that some of us do know how to have fun.”

The way he says that last part makes your skin crawl. “A different kind of ‘fun’ I guess,” you say, trying to sound as bored as you can. Rude, sexist, racist, so many types of phobic, obnoxious to everyone around him without even trying, and now creepy– if you had a bad date bingo card you’d have a blackout right now.

Earlier he had tried to skip out on the bill by excusing himself to the bathroom, but your waitress and the host had blocked the front and loudly instructed him as to where the restrooms were. Now you wish they’d had your back a little less. You’d take the hit to your wallet if it meant you could crawl home. But now if you get the bill would that be sending the wrong signal; would he take that for an invitation? Not that you care, you just don’t want to deal with it right now.

He keeps drinking, and you keep rebuffing his attempts to get you to do the same. You’re not sure what you’re going to do with him as he gets drunker and drunker, but it has the unintended benefit of shutting him up, which means all the onlookers slowly get bored and stop paying such close attention to your disaster date. Even the people recording this for posterity stop, and after a little while you can breathe again.

Until, when you’re reaching for a napkin, he suddenly grabs your wrist and grips. You try to yank it back, but he’s got a surprisingly strong hold. “Hey,” he says. “I think I’m just about ready.”

“Ready for what?” You wince. “Please let go; it hurts.”

“Sorry,” he says but he barely loosens a centimeter. “You take care of the bill, and I’ll take you to my place. It’ll be great.”

The one problem with no longer being the center of surreptitious attention is that it’s hard to find help that you can discreetly ask for. You’re about to damn all dignity and raise your voice to demand he let go, when someone bumps into your table hard enough to topple the glasses. You barely catch your water, but your date’s half-full drink goes right into his lap. He hisses and lets go of you to mop it up.

You look up at your savior, who even under normal conditions is probably one of the most beautiful men you’ve ever seen. Right now, the lights give him a very appropriate halo and your angel smiles at you. How fitting for a man who uses wings to save people.

“I’m really sorry to interrupt, but have we met before? You look awfully familiar.”

Your heart stutters. Your words. It could be a coincidence. It could be, but it might not be. “I– I don’t think so; I’m a hundred percent sure I’d remember a face like yours.”

His eyes go wide and his mouth drops open and shit, you’re actually thankful for that asshole now. “Those are my– did I say–”

You scramble up and pull up your sleeve to show him your words. His words. He gently touches the skin and the way he smiles at you–

“Do you know this asshole?” your ‘date’ gripes.

“I do now,” you say, not looking away from the man. “He’s my soulmate.”

“You’ve got to be kidding.”

“Nope,” your soulmate says and, appropriately, doesn’t give the douchebag a single glance.

“Fuck it; this was a shit date anyway,” he says and stumbles out. He doesn’t leave anything for his half, of course, but you don’t even care anymore; he’s gone and you’re standing in front of your soulmate, who looks as happy as you feel.

He extends his hand to shake yours. “Sam Wilson.”

You introduce yourself and he repeats your name like he already loves it. “I know you’ve had a hell of a night, but uh, do you wanna go get some coffee or something?” he says.

“Your friends won’t mind?” you ask. Just to be polite, if you’re being honest; you’re ready to yank him out the door and never look back.

“No way,” he says. “Besides, I see those jerks all the time.”

“Okay. Okay.” You can’t stop smiling. Talk about an upswing. “Let me just pay the bill and–”

A wad of cash lands on the table. “The gentleman was kind enough to leave enough cash to cover the bill and a generous tip,” a woman with red hair and even redder lipstick says as she sidles past. “We’ll see you later, Sam.”

“Thanks Nat,” he says and they trade a small hug. As Sam helps you with your jacket he tells you, “I’m sorry I wasn’t here sooner.” He straightens out the lapel. “We weren't sure if we’d make it better or worse. If it’s any consolation, Steve wanted to throttle the guy.”

“Well, as much as I appreciate the thought–” you hold your hand out, “–I’m glad it was you.”

Sam grins and slips his hand into yours, and you lead him out into the best night of your life.

[thesecondcircleofkel]

NSFW Alphabet, Kid: A-Z

Reposting all of these together for convenience and to save space. Alphabet requests are still open, but remember, I don't accept requests to do the entire alphabet for someone all at once. You have to stick to the guidelines of 1 character per ask, and 5 letters per ask, and once I finish the alphabet for a character with requests like that, I will repost it all together.

A: Aftercare (What they’re like after sex)

What is this aftercare that you speak of? Yeah, Kid is…not the best when it comes to aftercare. He’s just not conscientious enough of your needs to be good at it. To be fair, it’s not like he gets up, sees to his own needs, and just completely ignores you in the process. He conks out pretty quickly afterwards, and he just doesn’t really care to move while he’s dozing off. If you really need him to do something for you, then you’ll have a brief window where you can nag at him enough that he’ll do what you need him to, but you have to be quick about it so he doesn’t fall asleep first. He’s not a complete ass, he’s just sleepy and doesn’t think of these things.  

B: Body Part (Their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)  

His favorite body part on himself is surprisingly not his prosthetic arm. Yes, he thinks that it looks awesome, and yes, he’s proud of all the work he put into it, but it’s still a reminder that he lost his arm to someone. So instead of that, his favorite part on himself is his torso, just because he’s perfectly aware of how ripped he is.

On his partner, he’s actually a big fan of your hands because of how small they are compared to his. He likes seeing how tiny they are when you hold them against his body, and it’s actually kind of endearing when he fiddles with your hands to amuse himself. Also a big fan of seeing you try to wrap your hand around his dick.

C: Cum (Anything to do with cum)  

Lord help you, because his cum is so damn thick. He loves to pull out and cum on you, too, so the clean-up afterwards is quite a hassle. He won’t make you swallow it, though; he’d much rather cum on your face when you give him oral.

D: Dirty Secret

So, after he lost his arm and made his metal prosthetic, he was so proud and keen on said prosthetic that he tried to use it to jack off. It obviously didn’t end well. He didn’t permanently maim himself, but it was unpleasant enough that he learned his lesson the first time and never tried it again (and that’s saying something, because he’s so hard-headed that he usually has to mess up at something twice before he gives up on it).

E: Experience (How experienced are they? Do they know what they’re doing?)

He’s had quite a bit of experience, but he never really paid too much attention to what he was doing until he had a regular sex partner. He was much more focused on his own pleasure during his one-night stands, but once you came along he finally started putting some effort into figuring out what pleased others in the bedroom.

F: Favorite Position

He generally prefers positions where he’s on top and more dominant. When he takes you from behind, he likes the Downward Dog position, especially since you’re also sprawled out so helplessly in front of him. He’s also a fan of the Bow position because of how pinned and at his mercy you are in it, and he likes the Anvil position for similar reasons, and because it lets him penetrate you pretty deeply. On the rare occasion that he wants to be a little intimate, he’ll want a lot of body contact with you, so his go-to for that is the Lazy Dog position.

G: Goofy (Are they more serious in the moment, or are they humorous, etc.)  

Definitely not humorous during sex, and he’ll get a little irate if you end up laughing during sex. His goal is to fuck you so good that you can hardly think, much less laugh, so if you laugh, he’ll think that he isn’t doing a good job.

H: Hair (How well-groomed are they, does the carpet match the drapes, etc.)

How many seconds do you think someone would have left to live if they asked him if the carpet matched the drapes? Probably not that many. Anyways, the carpet does in fact match the drapes. He doesn’t particularly care to groom down there, but he’s not really hairy anyways, so it works out.

I: Intimacy (How are they during the moment, romantic aspect…)

If you’re looking for romance and intimacy during sex, you should probably look elsewhere. Kid isn’t incapable of love by any means, but that love will not shine through while he’s fucking you within an inch of your life. Sex with him will definitely be intense, but that intensity won’t have a hint of love to, only sheer carnal desire.

J: Jack Off (Masturbation headcanon)

His testosterone levels are something fierce, so he gets off a lot. His crew knows better than to barge into his room without knocking, because 9 times out of 10, when he’s in there, he’s having himself a good ole time. He’s not going to cum just one time, though; he was blessed with a short refractory period, and he utilizes that blessing quite a bit. He’s at least going to cum twice, and maybe even more depending on the day.

K: Kink (One or more of their kinks)  

Totally into Bondage, especially if he can use his Devil Fruit with it. There’s nothing quite like the image of you being pinned down to the bed by various pieces of metal that he’s controlling, and it’s honestly empowering for him (as if he needed to help in that department).

Marking. He prefers to leave bite marks all over you. He’s also prone to spanking you hard enough to leave hand-shaped bruises on your ass, and he will definitely try to line his hand back up with that particular mark later on, just for giggles.

Call him Captain in bed and you will be in for the ride of your life. He loves it when you acknowledge his authority over you and hearing that title while he’s fucking you will rile him up beyond belief.

Piercings, especially those of a nipple or genital variety. And yes, he will use his Devil Fruit on those piercings to tease you (don’t worry, he’ll be gentle about it- as sadistic as he can be, he doesn’t want to hurt in that particular way).

L: Location (Favorite places to do the do)

He’s not exactly picky about where he takes you, and he couldn’t give two flying fucks about anyone catching the two of you. He is fond of taking you out on the deck, though; he feels like it really shows his authority and power. For your sake, he’ll try to wait until no one else is around before taking you there, but again, he personally couldn’t care less if anyone caught you two fucking.

M: Motivation (What turns them on, gets them going)

Honestly, with how high his sex drive is, it’s not difficult to turn him on. You could barely breathe on him and he’d be hard in an instant. That being said, there are a few things in particular that really get him going.

Not only will calling him Captain in the bedroom do wonders for you, but calling him that outside of the bedroom is also a surefire way to get him going.

Act needy and practically beg him to fuck you. Let him know how much you need him and he won’t deprive you of his presence for long. For maximum results, be like this while the two of you are in front of other people.

Show yourself off in front of other people. He’ll only want you to do this while he’s around, but he loves it when other people are jealous of something that he has, especially when it’s something that they will never be able to get their hands on.

N: NO (Something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

He will not share you with anyone, no matter how much anyone begs him to. You are his, and that means that no one else gets to touch to you. If anyone so much as looks at you like they’re thinking about making a move on you, they’re bound to lose a limb or two by the end of the day. He’s quite possessive of you, but he’s also protective of you because of that, so take that as you will.

O: Oral (Preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)  

He definitely prefers receiving, and he loves seeing you struggle to fit his cock in your mouth. He’s surprisingly good at holding himself back, though, so he won’t buck into your mouth unless he’s trying to mess with you. He really only goes down on you for special occasions, but he makes it worth the wait. He wants to prove that he’s a master of all forms of sex, so he’s really enthusiastic with his oral technique, and he’ll keep going until you beg him to stop because you’re overstimulated.

P: Pace (Are they fast and rough? Slow and sensual? etc.)

Fast and rough, and he’s not really keen on changing that pace. If you really need him to slow down or take it a bit easier, you’re going to have to be very convincing about it.

Q: Quickie (Their opinions on quickies rather than proper sex, how often, etc.)  

He absolutely loves quickies, and you’re bound to have at least one every day. He has no preference when it comes to quickies or proper sex; as long as he gets to cum, he’s fine with either.

R: Risk (Are they game to experiment, do they take risks, etc.)  

Is it really considered a risk when he doesn’t care if he gets caught? It’s not like there would be any repercussions for him, either. Regardless, a lot of the sex that he has could be considered risky. When it comes to experimenting, it kind of just depends on what it is, but if he has any inclination that he would like what you want to try, he’s down for it.  

S: Stamina (How many rounds can they go for, how long do they last…)

His stamina is damn impressive, especially given how intense his pace usually is. He can at least go for 20 minutes, and he can go for several rounds before he tires out. You might need to ask for a breather in between rounds, because his refractory period is amazingly short, as well.

T: Toys (Do they own toys? Do they use them? On a partner or themselves?)

He didn’t have any before he was in a long-term relationship, but once you came into his life, he put some thought into making a few sex toys himself. After some trial and error, the turn-out was pretty great, and everything that he made was made of metal so he could make things even more interesting by using his Devil Fruit along with the toys. You’ll be hard pressed trying to get him to let you use toys on him, but if it’s something that he made, your chances will be a little better.

U: Unfair (How much they like to tease)

This sadistic ass is very unfair to you during sex, and he will tease you all the damn time, just for the sake of making you squirm and beg for him.

V: Volume (How loud they are, what sounds they make)

So damn loud, and he doesn’t care if anyone hears him. He’s mainly a grunter, and it is damn near animalistic to hear those sounds coming from him while he’s fucking you. He’ll also let a few short groans out right as he’s getting ready to cum, and he occasionally lets out a shout when his orgasm hits him.

W: Wild Card

He wants you to dominate him at least once, just so he can see what it’s like. He’ll never admit it afterwards, but he’s going to enjoy it, especially if you get really rough with him.

X: X-Ray (Let’s see what’s going on in those pants)  

At 6’ 8 ½’’, Kid is a big guy, but even for his size, his dick is still relatively large. It’s anywhere from 7-8 inches in length and the girth is…scary. Best of luck trying to wrap your hand around it. He realizes just how big he is, too, and quite a bit of his cocky attitude comes from that. His dick doesn’t have any obvious curves to it, but he has a quite a few really prominent veins along his shaft.

Y: Yearning (How high is their sex drive?)

High. Really, really, really high. He could have sex multiple times a day and he'd still have to get himself off because his sex drive is so high. He can hold himself back when the need arises, but he would certainly prefer not to.

Z: ZZZ (… how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

He'll be knocked out pretty soon afterwards, like, within seconds after he's rode out his orgasm. The only thing that will keep him awake is you nagging at him, and not even that is a surefire method of keeping him up.

[singledarkshade]

Holiday Romance

Summary: Sara and Gideon accidentally end up on a 'Couples Cruise', and decide to just enjoy themselves rather than lose their money. When an old friend of Sara asks her to help out because one of the crew is sick, Gideon finds herself acting as the fake girlfriend to Rip Hunter who is onboard to review the cruise events. Author’s Note: For Timeship Week Day 4:Trope Day - Have a favourite trope? Friends to lovers? Sharing a bed? Coffeeshop meeting? Character whump? Whatever it is, have Timeship live through it. So here is todays second fic, Happy Birthday @incendiaglacies.                         ********************************************* Sara winced under the weight of her friend’s glare. Granted she should have paid a little more attention to what she was booking when she booked their vacation but, in her defence, she had been pretty drunk at the time so could be forgiven for accidentally booking them on a couple’s cruise.

“Okay,” Sara said with a smile, “Gideon, we can either go home and lose a lot of money, or we have a fun two weeks on a cruise ship. We can lie by a pool in the sun all day doing nothing but eat and drink as much as we want.”

Gideon grimaced.

“You’ve already got the time off work and we’re here,” Sara reminded her, “It’ll be two weeks and I promise you’ll enjoy yourself. What do you say?”

Sighing Gideon nodded, “Fine.”

Sara grinned and slipped her arm through Gideon’s, “Come on then, let’s go find our cabin, darling.”

Gideon rolled her eyes before walking onto the large ship with her friend.

 Standing on the balcony to their cabin, was a lot more spacious than she had expected it to be, Gideon took a deep breath of the sea air watching the land disappear into the horizon deciding she was going to enjoy her time here.

She knew Sara was just trying to help by dragging her on this vacation but, as Gideon tried to tell her friend, getting over a break-up took time. Shaking herself Gideon headed back into the cabin finding Sara in her bikini pulling out a beach towel from her case.

“I thought you were unpacking?” Gideon asked.

Sara rolled her eyes, “In this weather? I am going to the pool to work on my tan. Get changed and come with me.”

“I should unpack,” Gideon said.

“Why?” Sara demanded, “No one you know is on this boat. No one is going to care if you’re a little wrinkled. To be honest you could use it.”

Unable to stop herself Gideon laughed, “Go and find us a spot, I’ll be right behind you.”

“Then enjoy the view,” Sara grinned before she sauntered out the cabin.

Part of Gideon wanted to stay hidden in the cabin but knew that Sara wouldn’t leave her alone so changed into one of her bathing costumes. Not as confident as Sara she wasn’t ready to wear the red bikini her friend had made her buy. Looking at herself in the mirror, Gideon took a deep breath and told herself that she was going to have a good time and ‘he’ was not going to be thought about for the next two weeks.

Wrapping a sarong around her waist, Gideon picked up the bag with her book and sun cream, put her hat on and grabbed a beach towel before heading out to enjoy her holiday.

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

  “Welcome to the Jewel of Paradise.”

“Thank you for having me, Captain Baxter,” Rip said with a flourished bow, before he laughed, “It’s good to see you, Eve.”

She grinned and hugged him, “You look good. I couldn’t believe it when I saw your name on the memo.”

“Well mother is still in plaster and you know her standards for these things,” Rip shrugged, “So I agreed to come and do the review. It means you don’t have to go through this more than once.”

Eve laughed before turning to the woman at her side, “Rip, you remember Kendra Saunders, our Entertainment Director.”

“Of course, it’s good to see you again,” Rip said to the smiling woman.

Kendra nodded, “You too, Mr Hunter.”

“Rip is fine,” he told her.

“Of course,” Kendra smiled before grimacing, “Unfortunately we might not actually be able to offer all the usual activities for this tour.”

“Why?” Rip asked.

“The crew member who runs the aerobics and fitness sessions is in hospital,” Kendra told him, “She had an emergency appendectomy last night.”

Rip frowned, “That is unfortunate.”

“I may have a temporary solution,” Kendra continued quickly, “During the welcome talk I noticed that a friend of mine is onboard. I checked and she’ll be here for the next two weeks. I might be able to persuade her to help.”

Folding his arms across his chest Rip said, “Considering this is a couples cruise, her other half might not be exactly happy about it.”

“We can look into giving them compensation,” Eve noted, “Kendra, can you locate and bring them to my office? If she doesn’t agree then we’ll think of something else.”

Kendra nodded and disappeared.

Eve slipped her arm through her foster brother’s and started them walking, “And you didn’t think to bring someone with you since this is a couples cruise?”

“I’ll work as part of the crew,” Rip shrugged, “It’ll be fine. The report will be just as accurate.”

“And you’ll still be just as alone,” Eve murmured under her breath.

  Rip sat in Eve’s office musing.

He was only here because his mother asked him to come in her place, it wasn’t something he did often but had accompanied her several times during reviews over the years so knew what she looked for. It was typical this one was a couples’ cruise, and he hadn’t been part of a couple for a very long time, so spending two weeks surrounded by them was more than likely going to drive him crazy.

But he couldn’t say no his mother. Especially since she had a broken leg.

“Eve,” Kendra called as she knocked, opening the door she was followed in by two women. Both petite, one was blonde with blue eyes wearing a white bikini with a red wrap around her waist, the other woman who came in last had waves of chestnut brown hair, porcelain skin and storm grey eyes. She was wearing a black bathing costume with a black sarong around her waist. Rip felt himself straighten ever so slightly when she glanced at him.

“This is Sara Lance,” Kendra introduced the blonde, “She’s a fully certified aerobics instructor as well as a black belt in several martial arts. Sara, this is Eve Baxter the Captain of the ship.”

“Miss Lance,” Eve greeted her, “Thank you for agreeing to meet with us. Did Kendra explain the situation we’re in?”

Sara nodded, “Yes.”

“We’re more than happy to compensate you,” Rip spoke up before introducing himself, “I’m Michael Hunter, I’m one of the owners of the company that runs the cruise. We understand that this is your holiday with your partner but if you can help, we will offer you two weeks free on another of our cruises as well as a full refund for this one.”

“Gideon and I are just friends,” Sara told him, “And I’ve no problem helping out, especially with the terms you’ve given. But that does leave Gideon on her own.”

“I have an idea,” Eve spoke up with a smile making Rip frown because he knew that look on his foster sister’s face, “Miss Ryder, Rip is here to do a review of the cruise events, classes and trips that we offer. As this is a couples’ cruise he will stand out like a sore thumb,” she threw him an amused look, “Would you be amenable to accompanying him for the activities so he can blend in. I promise he’s a nice guy and will be a perfect gentleman.”

Rip frowned at Eve before turning to the beautiful woman adding, “It would only be for a few of the events to allow me to view how well they’re received.”

  “Can we have a few minutes to discuss this?” Sara spoke up before Gideon could say anything.

“Of course,” Eve told her, “We’ll give you the office.”

Sara caught Kendra’s arm before she left and murmured, “Is he straight and single?”

Kendra nodded, “Definitely straight, terminally single.”

“Excellent,” Sara grinned before she turned to her friend when they were left alone, “Well...”

Gideon frowned, “Sara, I’m not sure this is a good idea.”

“Oh, come on,” Sara rolled her eyes, “He’s not bad to look at, seemed personable and, considering he owns the company, you’ll get nothing but the best.”

“Sara…”

“Gideon,” Sara cut her off, “I’m going to help them out. Kendra’s in a jam and she’s a friend. You didn’t want a vacation to begin with, so look at it like you’re taking a part-time job of sorts while we’re here.”

A slight grimace covered Gideon’s face before she nodded, “Alright, I’ll do it.”

Sara smiled, “And you never know, you might actually enjoy yourself.”

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

  Rip nervously walked towards the cabin being used by the woman who would be acting as his girlfriend for the next few weeks. It had been a long, long time since he’d been in a relationship. He’d been in love once and when she’d died it had devastated him. He wasn’t looking to meet anyone new, but he couldn’t stop his smile at seeing the beautiful woman who opened the door. She was wearing a simple yellow sundress and her long hair was pulled back loosely from her face.

“Good morning, Miss Ryder,” he greeted her.

“Mr Hunter,” she nodded back.

“For crying out loud,” a voice came from within the room, Sara Lance appeared moving Gideon back from the door and tugging Rip inside shutting the door behind him, “Okay, remember you two are meant to be a couple who’ve been together long enough to come on vacation together. So, how about you start by using each other’s first names.”

“Good point,” Rip winced at his own stupidity, “Gideon, thank you again for your help.”

She gave him a warm smile, “Of course, Michael.”

“Actually, I prefer to be called Rip,” he told her adding at the confused looks he was being given by the two women, “It’s a long story.”

Sara nodded, “That’s a start, now remember you’re meant to be in love, so you have to act like it. Hold hands, affectionate looks, kiss her cheek.”

“I think I can handle that,” Rip said.

Gideon gave a slightly nervous nod, “Okay.”

Sara nodded with a smile, “Alright, I have a Tai Chi class to get to. What’s on the agenda for you two?”

“A cooking class,” Rip said, bemused by the laugh Sara let out and grimace on Gideon’s face, “What?”

Gideon winced, “Cooking is not one of my skills. In fact, I can barely manage to boil water without burning it.”

Rip laughed, “Well, I’m actually not bad so I’ll do most of the work.”

  Gideon was not sure how she’d been talked into acting as Rip Hunter’s girlfriend for the next few weeks. Sara kept telling her it would be fine. She’d grilled Kendra the night before about the man and her conclusion was that he was a nice guy. Sara reminded Gideon that everything would be in groups, but if at any time Gideon felt uncomfortable then to leave and call her.

The room being used for the class was full, with one bench free at the front waiting for them, Gideon grimaced at the sight.

“Is something wrong?” Rip asked softly.

She shrugged, “Being at the front when I’m so bad at cooking is not my idea of fun.”

Rip squeezed her arm, “But it allows me to see the rest of the class and the teacher. Don’t worry,” he smiled comfortingly, “Come on.”

Gideon let him lead her to the front of the room and they took their place at the bench. To her relief most of the ingredients were sitting in bowls, already chopped, so she wouldn’t end up in the infirmary with sliced fingers. Glancing round she could see all the others were giggling and holding hands, a wave of sadness filled her remembering when that would have been her. She jumped when a hand touched her arm.

“Are you alright?” Rip asked kindly.

Gideon put a smile on her face, “I’m fine. Just thinking.”

He nodded, “It’s starting.”

  Rip liked to cook.

It was something that helped him relax, it was what had bonded him with his mother when she first took him in, and he had loved to cook for Miranda.

The woman at his side was obviously nervous as the class started but he understood that she was pretending to be dating him and it was not a comfortable thing for either of them.

“Here,” he held out the spoon with some of the sauce to her, “Taste this.”

Gideon sipped the liquid her eyes widening in delight, “That’s delicious.”

Rip smiled at words, “See, I do have some talent.”

She laughed, “I bow to your amazing chef skills.”

For the rest of the hour as they put together the recipe, Rip discovered his new friend hadn’t been kidding when she said she wasn’t good in the kitchen, but she handed him whatever he asked for and tasted everything he offered. Rip however found she was smart and had a wicked sense of humour.

“Alright, that’s the end of our session,” the instructor said with the completed meal in front of her, “You’ve all been sent the recipe to the email account you registered with. Come get a glass of wine or soda to have with your meal and thank you for coming.”

  “What was your verdict?” Gideon asked, sipping her wine while she finished the pasta dish they’d made, well Rip had made, in the now empty room.

Rip smiled, “Good, the instructor was witty, kept the class going but didn’t go too fast. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves,” he glanced at her, “Even you.”

Gideon laughed, “As I said, I don’t cook.”

“Did you enjoy the class though?”

She paused for a moment before nodding, “Yes.”

“What about the dish itself?” Rip asked her.

“It was delicious,” Gideon mused, “Although I’m more a sweets person. Sara once said offer me chocolate and I’ll do almost anything.”

Rip gave an amused smile, “I’ll remember that.”

“Almost anything,” Gideon told him primly before she smiled back.

Picking up their empty plates Rip rinsed then loaded them into the dishwasher, placing the tablet in and starting it.

“Thank you for doing this with me today,” Rip told her, “I know you were talked into this, but it is extremely helpful.”

“You are welcome,” Gideon said softly, taking a quick drink she asked, “What is the next activity you need me to join you for?”

A thought flitted across Rip’s mind before he quickly shook it away, “Tomorrow we’re docking for the day.”

“Sara was hoping to spend the day on the beach,” Gideon nodded.

“Well, there is a walk to the waterfall with a picnic lunch supplied,” Rip told her, “The spot has been the scene of a lot of proposals.”

Gideon thought it over for a few minutes before nodding, “It sounds nice. But no proposal, please. I’m not ready for marriage.”

“I promise,” Rip laughed at her teasing smile.

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

  “You know you’re not exactly an outdoors person,” Sara noted as she watched Gideon get ready for her day out.

“Rip assures me it isn’t a hard walk,” Gideon replied.

Sara shrugged, “Well, just be careful you don’t do yourself an injury. Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat.”

“Anything else, Mum?” Gideon asked acidly.

“There’s a waterfall,” Sara mused, “Tell me you’ve got a bathing costume on so you can go swimming.”

Gideon rolled her eyes, “You do realise I’m an adult?”

“And you do realise you’re going to a romantic spot with a guy who every time he’s seen you checks you out?” Sara threw back at her, “Maybe have a little bit of fun.”

Shaking her head Gideon grabbed her bag and left to meet Rip.

  “The Waterfall Walk is one of the most popular tours we do,” Eve noted, “And we hold the record for the number of proposals made on it. We’ve had one on every tour.”

Rip laughed as he scanned his emails, “Well, I’ll try not to jinx your perfect record.”

“How’s your new girlfriend?” Eve asked amused.

Frowning Rip reminded her, “It is a business arrangement you made.”

“You know,” Eve said gently, “Miranda has been gone for a long time. You could try letting down those walls for a while. Meet someone, date.”

“I date,” Rip noted sharply.

“You don’t date,” Eve rolled her eyes at him, “You go for ‘dinner’ every so often when mother or I force you to then never see them again.”

Rip glared at her. It was a look which could cow many people but had never worked on Eve.

“I’m just saying that Gideon is smart, beautiful and you’re going to be spending time with her for the next few weeks,” Eve rested her hand on his shoulder, “Maybe try to get to know her and once this is over, ask her out properly.”

“Have you met this woman?” Rip asked incredulously before sighing slightly, “She’d never want to date me.”

Eve tilted her head and punched him on the arm.

“What was that for?”

“The only person allowed to insult you and put you down is me,” Eve reminded him, “You’re a catch, brother dear. Don’t ever forget it.”

Rip jumped to his feet, “I should go.”

“Rip,” Eve called after him, “It’s a very romantic walk.”

Dodging the wad of paper that he threw at her head, Eve grinned at him. Her laughter followed him out the room.

  Gideon stared at the view in front of her.

The clear water cascaded down the cliffs into a deep blue pool, the droplets from the spray were like jewels when the sunlight hit them.

“What do you think?” Rip asked from her side.

She turned to him and smiled brightly, “It is absolutely beautiful.”

“And Eve’s streak continues,” Rip chuckled, motioning over to the couple in the small grotto under the waterfall with one on bended knee. He offered Gideon his hand, “Do you want to go for a closer look?”

Taking his hand, she smiled, “Sounds great.”

They started walking down the path towards the pool, and as they moved closer Gideon felt the spray from the waterfall cool the air around them. There were several blankets set up around the clearing surrounding the water, separate enough so that there was at least the illusion of privacy.

Rip took Gideon’s bag from her and placed it on the blanket at the furthest edge.

“So, you can watch over everything?” Gideon teased.

He rolled his eyes, “Means I can talk to the crew without disturbing the couples.”

Gideon chuckled.

“Do you want to go for a swim?” Rip asked, “Cool off after the walk.”

Looking at the inviting clear pool of water before her Gideon nodded, “I think that sounds like a wonderful idea.”

She quickly pulled off her t-shirt, sliding out of her shorts and removing her shoes. With a quick grin in Rip’s direction she headed to the edge and waded in.

  Rip watched Gideon slowly wade into the water wearing an aqua-green bathing costume that showed off her figure with her long chestnut hair flowing down her back.

“Are you coming?” Gideon called back to him.

Pulling off his own t-shirt he walked to the edge, Gideon was swimming with slow graceful strokes and Rip watched her for several moments before he walked further into the pool.

Dipping into the cool water, Rip swam over to join Gideon who had climbed up and was now sitting on the rocks around the edge. Climbing up to sit with her, Rip turned to look at the couples who had joined them on the walk as they swam and laughed.

Part of him wanted to leave because it was something he didn’t have, but the other part was enjoying spending time with the woman who had agreed to help him.

“Can I ask you something?” Rip said after a moment.

“Of course.”

“If you and Sara are only friends, why did you come on a couples cruise?”

Gideon laughed, “Because she was trying to cheer me up.”

Rip raised an eyebrow questioningly.

Gideon gave a small sigh, “It was after I had a rather horrible break-up.”

“You don’t have to tell me about that,” Rip said softly.

She let out a small sigh of relief that he didn’t push, “We were in my apartment one Friday night after Sara failed to persuade me to go out. She decided since I wasn’t going out then we were ‘staying in’. We both had a little too much wine, I fell asleep and I woke up to find she’d booked us on the trip.”

Rip mused this over for a moment before asking, “When did you realise…”

“When we reached the dock and saw all the signs,” Gideon shook her head.

He began to laugh, “So I assume you decided just to come anyway.”

“Two weeks of sunshine, good food and we didn’t want to lose our money,” Gideon replied.

“I’m glad you decided to,” Rip said softly, adding quickly, “Sara has been a lifesaver for us.”

  Lunch was served about twenty minutes later. After they’d eaten Gideon lay back on the blanket enjoying the sunshine while Rip talked to the crew who were working the tour. She was glad that Sara had persuaded her to come on the cruise and to help Rip.

It had only been two days, but she was enjoying herself.

“You should be careful,” Rip’s voice came from her side making her open her eyes, “You’re becoming slightly pink. You don’t want to burn.”

Gideon nodded and pulled her t-shirt on moving into the shaded area.

“Why are you here?” Gideon asked him, quickly clarifying, “Do you always do these reviews?”

“No,” Rip replied with a shrug, “I’m only here because my mother broke her leg skiing. Since she has very exacting standards for these reviews, she wanted me to do it rather than someone she didn’t raise.”

“You couldn’t say no?” Gideon asked amused.

He winced, “She’s very hard to say no to. Especially when she uses the plaster on her leg to make me feel bad.”

Gideon chuckled, “Were you going to say no?”

He gave a slight shrug making her laugh even more.

  The walk back from the waterfall was quiet, everyone was tired from the day. Gideon was aware of Rip’s arm slung around her waist as they walked. She knew it was just for show, but it was comforting having him at her side on the rocky path.

Reaching the dock, Gideon was disappointed when he moved away from her.

“Thank you for coming with me today,” Rip said as they walked up onto the ship once more, “It makes things so much easier.”

“I enjoyed it,” Gideon told him with a smile, “The view was worth the walk, and the company was pleasant.”

He smiled back at her, “Good,” taking a step back from her Rip nodded, “I have some things to do and you should probably get some cream on your shoulders. They’re quite pink.”

“I’m going to have to listen to Sara tell me off for not looking after myself,” Gideon rolled her eyes.

“Or she’ll come after me,” he replied.

“That is very possible,” Gideon laughed, “Is there anything else for today?”

Rip shook his head, “No. Tomorrow there are a few things I need to review. If that’s alright?”

Nodding, Gideon smiled again, “That sounds fine. Should I ask what they are?”

“I’ll send you the information tonight,” Rip promised.

Giving her a quick nod, Rip pressed a quick kiss to her cheek then started away leaving Gideon watching him with a smile, pulled away from her thoughts when Sara arrived.

“Hey,” the other woman bounced over, “How was your day?”

“It was good,” Gideon grinned as Sara slid her arm through Gideon’s and started them back to their cabin.

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

  The next few days Gideon joined Rip for a few more activities that the ship had scheduled. The quiz was particularly fun, although Gideon realised half-way through that it wasn’t a good idea for Rip to win but hadn’t counted on his competitiveness.

Thankfully Kendra was overseeing the quiz and, somehow, lost their entry but she let them know afterwards they had won by a large margin. They joined a team for a water polo tournament, their team coming a very close second. The wine tasting had been enjoyable, even if they both felt they made up a lot of what they were tasting. While the class on folding towels had Gideon laughing for almost the entire hour as she learned she was not artistic, and her swan towel looked lopsided.

“So,” Gideon said as Rip walked her back to her cabin, “What is on tomorrows agenda?”

Rip chuckled, “There is a dance class in the morning and in the afternoon,” he paused and smiled, “I don’t want to ruin the surprise.”

“Should I be worried?” Gideon asked.

“I think it’s something you’ll enjoy,” he promised.

Giving him a hard stare for a moment, Gideon finally nodded, “Alright I trust you. But I should warn you about the dance class. I have two-left feet.”

Rip raised an eyebrow, “I doubt that,” he took her hand and placed a gentle kiss on it, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

A little bemused by the gesture, Gideon watched Rip leave for several minutes before she headed into her cabin.

  “Alright,” Manuel, the dance instructor called, “Let’s try this with the music.”

Gideon grimaced slightly, aware of Rip’s arm wrapped around her waist and his other hand holding hers while they were pressed close together. The music began and Gideon counted to eight before she did the few steps they’d been taught. She could feel Rip was smiling amused but tried to ignore him.

“Well done,” Manuel turned the music off, “Now, let’s go over the next few steps.”

Glancing at Rip, Gideon frowned at him, “Stop it.”

“Stop what?” he asked, the amusement never leaving his face.

“Just because you already know how to dance,” Gideon told him as they continued to go through the small section of steps they’d been taught.

Rip shrugged, “My mother insisted I know how since I usually had to accompany her to functions.”

Gideon stumbled slightly, Rip caught her keeping her upright, “Thank you,” she murmured.

“I still need you for a few days,” Rip told her with a teasing smile.

She felt her cheeks begin to burn slightly, grateful when the instructor drew their attention to him once more.

  The lesson ended and Gideon joined in the applause for the instructor. Manuel gave a flourished bow before he started to pack up.

“I need to chat with him quickly,” Rip said, “Do you want to get some lunch before this afternoons activity?”

“Which you still haven’t told me about,” Gideon noted.

He grinned at her mischievously, “I told you, it’s a surprise.”

Rolling her eyes, Gideon nodded, “Lunch would be lovely.”

Rip gave her another smile, “I’ll meet you at the pool bar in thirty minutes. Once I talk to Manuel, I have a quick thing I need to do in the office.”

Gideon nodded, “Okay.”

With another quick smile and a peck on the cheek, Rip headed over to the other side of the room. Gideon grabbed her bag and started back to her cabin to change. Twenty-five minutes later she walked into the pool bar looking around for Rip.

“Hi, Gideon,” Kendra appeared at her side, “Rip asked us to keep you guys a booth and to tell you he will be here in a few minutes.”

“Thank you,” she followed the other woman round to the booths at the back overlooking the ocean, “Can you tell me what I’ve agreed to go to with him this afternoon?”

Kendra gave her a bemused look, “You don’t know?”

“Rip has told me it’s a secret,” Gideon frowned annoyed, “Even the information in my cabin just says ‘secret’.”

Laughing Kendra nodded, “Yeah, Eve mentioned he likes to hack things on occasion to annoy her. Sorry, Gideon but if he’s determined to keep it a surprise,” she shrugged, “He is my boss.”

Sighing Gideon slid into the booth and picked up the menu. Almost ten minutes later Rip appeared and slid in across from her.

“I’m sorry I’m late,” he apologised, “That took a little longer than I expected. Have you ordered?”

“I was waiting for you,” Gideon replied.

He gave a small nod and glanced at the menu before motioning over the waitress so they could order.

“I’m beginning to understand why you had no one come here with you,” Gideon noted teasingly once they placed their order, “You may be able to cook and dance but the lateness and smug secret keeping is a bit of a turn off.”

Rip laughed in surprise and threw his napkin at her, “I was engaged years ago,” he said softly, “But she…ah she died, and I’ve never met anyone…”

Gideon winced as he trailed off, “I’m sorry.”

“No,” he reached out and squeezed her hand, “It was a miracle Miranda even dated me. I tend to be quite anti-social. I prefer computers to people usually.”

Smiling softly Gideon nodded, “I know what you mean.”

  Gideon chuckled as Rip told a story from his days at University while leading her to their destination. As they walked into the room, the sweet smell hit her instantly and Gideon’s eyes widened in delight.

“Chocolate?” she turned to Rip.

“One of our chefs makes sweets and is going to teach us how to create a few ourselves,” Rip told her with a grin.

Laughing Gideon gave him a hug.

“Then you like your surprise?” Rip breathed in her ear as he enfolded her in his arms.

She kissed his cheek, “I do.”

“Then come on,” Rip took her hand, “I made sure to keep us a space right next to the chocolate fountain.”

Gideon grinned and followed on. The delicious smell filled the world around her, and Gideon bounced excited to try everything.

“Good afternoon, everyone,” the woman who was taking the class, “I’m Geri, the pastry chef for the Twilight Restaurant here on the ship. Welcome to heaven.” She paused and smiled, “Now, I know the description of this class is that we make sweets but to be honest we might not manage to make anything. I will teach you what I can but I’m not going to care if we manage to make the sweets or not. As long as you all take a taste every so often and have fun then this will be a great time.”

Gideon smiled at Rip before dipping a finger into the bowl of chocolate in front of her. He followed her example and dipped a finger in too, surprised when Gideon licked the chocolate off his finger.

“Almost anything for chocolate,” she whispered as Geri started the class.

  Gideon continued to giggle as Rip tried to clean off some of the chocolate covering his shirt at the end of the class.

“You were almost in the bowl at times,” Rip groused, “How are you spotless?”

With an innocent smile she dipped her finger in the small bowl of chocolate sitting next to her, “Because I would not waste any,” she sucked the chocolate off her finger with a cheeky grin.

Shaking his head Rip decided the shirt was a lost cause and just to change.

“I take it the class met your standards?” Gideon asked, as she dipped a piece of wafer into the chocolate and popped it into her mouth.

Rip shrugged slightly embarrassed, “This wasn’t part of my review since it is one of the most popular classes on the itinerary. I just thought you’d enjoy it.”

A blush covered Gideon’s cheeks and she breathed, “I did.”

“Then the sacrifice of my shirt was worth it,” Rip smiled back.

They stood in silence for several minutes, before Gideon asked, “What is on the agenda for tomorrow?”

“Nothing,” Rip replied, “We’re in dock tomorrow. There are a few excursions which aren’t organised by us available for the passengers. You get a day free of me but if you and Sara want to go on one of the tours, I can arrange for you to join. At no cost to either of you.”

Gideon smiled at him, “You don’t have to do that, Rip.”

He shrugged, “You’re both helping us a great deal, it’s the least I can do.”

“I’ll speak with Sara,” Gideon told him.

“Also, the day after tomorrow we take on new people so there will be very little on that day,” Rip told her, “But I have organised something as a thank you for you.”

“You don’t…”

“Humour me,” Rip told her, “Besides since Sara is currently part of the crew then she’ll be busy all day.”

“Should I ask what my thank you is?”

Rip smiled, “It’s another surprise.”

“I don’t normally like surprises,” Gideon told him before looking around the room, “But considering how well you did with the last one, I’ll trust you.”

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

  Sara and Gideon spent the next day sitting by the pool, as they had originally planned to for their time on the ship. Because they were in dock most people were off the ship, either wandering around on their own or on one of the tours, meaning the pool and surrounding bar were quiet.

Gideon was surprised by how much she missed spending time with Rip. She’d spotted him early that day and he’d gave her a quick smile before disappearing with Eve in deep discussion.

“Missing your significant other?” Sara teased when Gideon sighed slightly.

“No…what?”

Sara chuckled, “I’m just saying you and Rip have been quite cosy recently.”

“It’s…we’re…it’s not like that,” Gideon said softly, “He’s become a friend.”

Sara grinned again, “Of course.”

“You were the one who told us we had to act as though we were dating,” Gideon reminded her friend, “That’s just what you’re seeing.”

Smirking amused, Sara nodded, “Of course. The fact he took you to the sweet making class when he wasn’t reviewing it because he knows you love chocolate, just friends.”

“Sara,” Gideon stated sharply in a tone that told her friend she wasn’t discussing it anymore.

Not losing her amused smile Sara leaned back on her sunbed and closed her eyes to enjoy her peaceful day.

They had dinner together that night with a few of the crew Sara had become friendly with before they went to one of the shows then the bar for a final drink. Sara smiled to herself to see Gideon was having a good time, which had been the entire purpose of her booking their vacation.

And even though Gideon had no idea what Rip had set up for the next day when they would both be busy, Sara did. It was clear to see that her friend liked him, but Sara could also see that Rip was very taken by her.

Gideon, despite what she said, was still a little shy after what the bastard who was not to be named did and, from what Kendra had told her it sounded like Rip hadn’t dated properly since he lost his fiancé. Which meant Sara had a feeling she might have to make sure they kept in touch after the cruise had finished.

  It was now a week since the start of the cruise and it was what the crew called ‘turnover day’ where new guests joined the ship and others left so it was busy for the entire crew, including Sara and Rip.

Gideon smiled opening the door of her cabin to Rip, “Good morning,” she greeted him, “Perfect time as always.”

“Are you ready?” he asked.

Nodding Gideon grabbed her bag and followed him, as they moved through the ship she wondered where he was taking her.

“Rip?” she asked confused when they reached the spa.

“You have been booked in for the full day deluxe package,” Rip told her, before turning to the woman standing there, “Amaya here is your therapist for the day and will tell you what treatments you can choose to have. Lunch is included.”

“This is…” she paused and beamed, “Wonderful.”

“Hopefully by the time you’re finished, Sara will be free,” he told her, “Enjoy your day.”

Gideon watched him start to leave, calling his name he turned back and Gideon wrapped her arms around him tightly.

“Thank you,” she whispered, “This is so generous.”

Kissing his cheek quickly, Gideon allowed Amaya to lead her to get changed not seeing the smile on Rip’s lips or the way he touched his cheek where her lips had been.

  “Did you drop Gideon off at her latest surprise?” Sara asked amused when Rip arrived at her side for the welcome talk.

Rip frowned at her, “Don’t you work for me?”

“For a week more,” Sara reminded him, “And technically I’m doing you a favour.”

“Not if you accept my offer,” Rip noted.

Sara smiled slightly, “I’m thinking about it. Until I do though, this is still a favour and I can let you know that if you do anything to hurt my friend in any way, I will throw you off this ship.”

Rip smiled slightly before telling her, “I would never hurt Gideon, Sara. I promise you.”

“Okay,” Sara nodded, “I’ll hold you to that.”

She flicked her eyebrows at him amused but before he could reply two of the new guests caught her eye and Sara swore.

“What’s wrong?” Rip demanded worriedly.

“You’ve been told about Gideon’s ex, right?” Sara asked.

Rip nodded, “Briefly.”

“He just walked in with the woman he cheated on her with,” Sara grimaced.

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

  Gideon left the spa feeling totally, utterly and completely relaxed. Her skin was glowing from the body scrub and facial, every bit of stress had been massaged out of her muscles and her nails were freshly painted.

She saw Sara waiting for her and smiled at her friend, “Hi. How was your day?” At Sara’s serious face, Gideon frowned, “What’s wrong?”

“Max came onboard with the new arrivals,” Sara got straight to the point, “With her.”

The relaxation of the day disappeared in an instance and Gideon shook her head, “That’s not funny, Sara.”

“I’m not joking,” Sara rested her hand on Gideon’s arm, “Look, I know this is the last thing you wanted at all, never mind on vacation, but you get to show him that he means nothing to you now. Besides, it may only be fake, but you have Rip. Not bad looking, rich, kind and will happily play the doting new boyfriend to show Max exactly what he lost.”

Gideon shook her head trying to hold back tears.

Sara hugged her tightly, “Rip and Eve invited us to have dinner with them tonight in private so you don’t run into him before you’re ready.”

  Gideon stood on the balcony of Eve’s private dining room after dinner taking several deep breaths of the cool evening air.

“You know,” Rip’s voice came from behind her, “I’m a good listener if you want to talk about it?”

Gideon sighed softly when he stood at her side. Resting her head against him, Gideon took comfort in the man who had become her friend over the past week, smiling as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

“I thought he loved me,” she said finally, Rip said nothing just hugged her tighter, “Max was charming, funny, didn’t mind that I’m smarter than most people and I thought I was in love with him.”

“What happened?” Rip asked.

She sighed, “He travelled for work, so it wasn’t unusual that I didn’t see him more than once or twice a week. Then Sara dragged me to Central City to pick up some equipment from a shop, because she didn’t want to pay for delivery,” looking up into his kind green eyes she shook her head, “We went for lunch and he was there. With his other girlfriend.”

Rip let out a long breath but didn’t ask the question he really wanted to, instead waiting for her to continue.

“I was just going to leave,” Gideon said after several minutes, “But I forgot Sara was with me. She tossed a carafe of red wine over his head and told him never to come near me again or he would regret it.”

Rip chuckled, “I think I would have done a lot worse,” he rested his cheek against her hair holding her close before whispering, “He’s a fool. If he couldn’t see what an amazing woman you are then it’s his loss.”

Turning, Gideon looked up at him, smiling shyly at his words.

“Come back inside and have some dessert,” Rip moved her, “I made sure to get something with a lot of chocolate.”

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

  The next few days, Gideon continued to help Rip by going to the classes and sessions with him. He promised her they’d do the sweet making class again to make her smile and did all he could to ensure they didn’t run into Max. Which worked for a while.

Unfortunately, a few days later her luck ran out. They had a cocktail making class in the afternoon and Rip was running slightly late. Gideon stood just outside the room watching the few clouds in the sky when she heard Max’s voice.

“Gideon,” the smooth tones that used to make her shiver came from her side, “I didn’t realise you were onboard. This is a wonderful surprise.”

Forcing herself to simply smile slightly at him, Gideon replied, “Hello, Max.”

“You look as beautiful as always,” he gave the smile that once charmed her easily. When she didn’t reply Max continued, “I hate the way things ended between us. Sara didn’t give me any chance to talk to you, to explain everything.”

“It all seemed completely clear what was going on without an explanation,” Gideon replied coldly.

Max stepped into her and caught her hand, “Gideon…”

“Darling,” Rip’s voice came from behind before Max could say anything else, “Sorry I’m late.”

Turning she smiled as he leaned in and touched his lips to the side of her mouth, but from the angle Max was standing she knew it looked like a real kiss.

Max coughed and Rip pulled back, wrapping his arm around Gideon’s waist as he smiled at Max.

“Sorry, I interrupted,” Rip said guilelessly.

Gideon smiled at him, “Max and I were just saying hello. Max Connor, this is Michael Hunter.”

Rip offered his hand and Gideon watched not fully surprised when Max didn’t take it instantly although she saw Max recognised Rip’s name and that he was an owner of the cruise.

“How did you meet?” Max asked, his voice strained.

Rip laughed, “In a coffee shop, we both reached for a piece of chocolate cake and I got it first. What else could I do but offer to share it with the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met? We had coffee, then dinner and we’ve barely been apart since that day,” hearing the bartender start the class, Rip apologised, “I’m afraid we have to go, it was nice to meet you.”

Before Max could say another word, Rip moved Gideon inside.

“Are you okay?” he breathed as they walked to the bench waiting for them.

Gideon nodded, “Thank you.”

“What are friends for?” Rip smiled squeezing her hand.

  That night Sara was spending the evening with the crew, it was a traditional get together they had every tour and Gideon convinced her to go enjoy herself. Gideon was having a quick dinner before heading to her cabin to have an early night. She heard a blast of music and turned to see Max stand before getting down on one knee presenting a diamond ring to the woman sitting at the table with him.

Gideon felt her body fill with ice as she watched the man who she thought would one day do this for her, get down on one knee to another woman. Angry at herself for once again letting him get to her, Gideon forced herself to wait until everyone stood to applaud the happy couple before quietly leaving the dining room.

Standing in the empty corridor, Gideon started to cry. It was stupid, she knew it was stupid. She hated him. He had completely humiliated her for the second time but couldn’t stop crying over him.

“Gideon?”

Hearing Rip’s concerned voice Gideon started to wipe her eyes when Rip pulled her into his arms.

“You can cry,” he whispered softly, “It’s okay.”

“It’s stupid to care,” Gideon whispered against his chest.

Rip tightened his embrace, “No it’s not. You can be upset and angry for as long as you need.”

Gideon let out a soft sigh as he gently rocked her, sinking into the comfort Rip was offering disappointed when he pulled away.

“Wait here for me,” Rip told her gently, “Promise?”

Gideon nodded, not trusting herself to speak. He gave her a quick smile before disappearing through the door into the kitchen. Rip reappeared carrying a bag before resting his arm around her shoulders and leading her through the corridors. They reached the door and Gideon frowned confused.

“Where are we?”

“My cabin but,” Rip said quickly, “I promise there’s nothing untoward about my bringing you here. Trust me?”

She nodded tiredly.

He opened the door and motioned her inside, Gideon stalled surprised by the size of the room she walked into.

“This is your cabin?” she asked.

Rip chuckled, “VIP suite. There are a few perks with my job. To be honest the only reason I’m using it is because there were no smaller cabins available.”

“It is three times the size of the one Sara and I have,” Gideon murmured.

Rip placed the bag he was carrying on the table, before touching her arm, “Come on, this way.”

Gideon allowed him to move her through the room to a set of sliding doors, she started to laugh when she saw several large cushions sitting against the wall.

“What are these for?”

“You can hear the music from the theatre in this spot,” Rip told her, “I like to sit here and read most nights.”

Gideon smiled slightly, “Why bring me here?”

“Because I thought you might need somewhere to hide,” he told her, “As much as you love Sara, she’ll want you to talk about it.”

“You’re not going to make me talk about it?”

Rip shook his head, “I have chocolate cake and red wine. We can talk about anything you want, or you can sit and listen to the music. I’m only halfway through my book.”

“Chocolate cake sounds nice,” Gideon said softly.

“Get comfortable,” Rip told her, “And I will get you a slice.”

  Rip watched Gideon as she settled on the cushions, frowning at how she pulled her knees up to her chest and stared out at the stars. In the time they’d spent together Rip had come to care for Gideon, he looked forward to spending time with her each day and found himself smiling for no reason in her presence. Tonight, watching her heart being stepped on by a man who had already broken it had made him angrier than he had been in a long time.

He cut them both a generous slice of cake and poured two glasses of wine, taking them out to the balcony Rip handed Gideon one of each before taking a seat on the cushions beside her.

They sat in silence for several minutes, before Gideon sighed, “I know I shouldn’t still feel like this. It’s been nine months and I don’t even think of him like that anymore. Sara can’t understand why I’m not dating again. I guess I’m just a sad pathetic loser.”

“Nine months of no dating?” Rip said softly before shrugging, “I’m at nine years.”

“What?”

He sighed sadly, “I met Miranda at University during the first week and we got engaged the day we graduated. We were meeting my mother for lunch one day to discuss the wedding. Miranda touched my arm as we walked into the restaurant, said she felt strange and sat down on the ground. Then she was simply gone. Brain aneurism.”

“I’m so sorry, Rip,” Gideon whispered.

He squeezed her hand, “I’m not telling you this for sympathy, but to let you know that I am even sadder than you. I’ve avoided relationships ever since.”

Gideon laughed softly, “Well, if you were with someone then I wouldn’t have had such a fun time.”

“Then my inability to date is a benefit for you,” Rip laughed too.

She gave a sigh and rested her head against his arm, just sitting and listening to the music coming from above them.

  The music finished and Gideon knew she had to move from the small haven Rip had made for her. She was truly grateful that he had been with her tonight and was reluctant to leave his comforting presence but knew she had to.

“I should go and let you get some sleep,” Gideon spoke up, “Thank you for this.”

Rip stood and pulled her to her feet, “You’re welcome.”

As they walked to the door, Gideon was aware of the fact he was still holding her hand. She turned to Rip, stretched up and pressed a quick kiss to his cheek. Rip caught her around the waist before she could move away. Resting her hands on his chest, Gideon stared into the amazing green eyes gazing at her for a few moments until he closed the space between them.

It was a soft kiss, but there was no mistaking the intention. Rip broke the kiss waiting for her reaction, when she didn’t pull away Rip kissed her again. Gideon leaned into him, wrapping her arms around his neck as he pulled her closer.

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

  Gideon sighed in contentment as she slowly woke up, cosy and comfortable. She could feel Rip’s warm body beside her, his arms wrapped around her his fingers drew patterns on her skin.

Opening her eyes, Gideon was greeted to the sight of Rip watching her with a smile on his face, his green eyes soft and filled with wonder.

“Good morning,” he smiled at her.

“Morning,” Gideon felt a blush cover her cheeks, “This is…”

“Nice?” Rip suggested.

She laughed, “I was going to say unexpected but nice is a good description.”

Rip kissed her, and Gideon moaned with pleasure sliding her fingers into his hair.

“Don’t we have one of the couple activities soon?” Gideon asked, letting out a sigh as Rip began to kiss along her neck.

“We could skip it and stay here all day,” Rip suggested as continued to nuzzle at her skin.

Gideon let out a giggle, “What would your mother say?”

Rip pulled back and looked down at her, “That’s the way to kill the mood.”

“I do not want to be blamed for you not doing your job, Mr Hunter,” Gideon told him archly.

“We have about an hour and a half…” he leaned in to kiss her again.

Gideon pressed a finger to his lips stopping him, “I thought you had to do some work this morning.

Groaning Rip nodded.

“How about after today’s class, we have lunch here?” Gideon suggested.

Rip kissed her once more, “Sounds wonderful.”

  Gideon walked back to her cabin feeling like she was floating on air. Her evening had been incredible with the man who had come from nowhere into her life. Until last night, Gideon would have said he was simply a friend who made her smile. She hadn’t realised how deeply she was falling for him until he’d kissed her.

Reaching the cabin that she was sharing with Sara, Gideon was relieved that her friend was not there and neither of their beds had been slept in. Jumping into the shower, Gideon washed her hair wishing she’d accepted Rip’s offer to wash it for her. But she knew they wouldn’t make that day’s activity if she had.

Sara arrived back just as Gideon finished dressing.

“Are you okay?” Sara asked instantly, “I was with Kendra and the gym staff all night. I didn’t hear until this morning what happened. The bastard knew you were here as well. Do you want me to throw him into the ocean?”

Gideon smiled at her friend’s concern, “I’m fine.”

“Even after…” Sara trailed off.

“Rip helped me feel better,” Gideon told her absently as she looked for her shoes.

Sara let out a gasp making Gideon turn to check she was alright.

“You slept with him?” Sara demanded with a stunned expression.

“What makes you think that?” Gideon started to brush her hair trying desperately not to blush.

“You’re glowing.”

“I’ve just had a shower,” Gideon reminded her.

Sara laughed, “That is not the glow from warm water.”

Gideon frowned at her, “I have to go. I’ll talk to you later.”

Grabbing her bag Gideon ran out the room before Sara could question her anymore. What was happening with Rip was too new to be put under scrutiny.

  Walking through the corridors Gideon couldn’t get rid of her smile. Reaching Eve’s office, she knocked before opening the door, as she’d been told to do.

“We’re on schedule,” Eve was talking to someone on the screen in front of her, “And although a few know who he is, none of the passengers appear to suspect he’s here to check up on things. They just think he’s here with his girlfriend,” glancing up Eve saw Gideon and motioned her over, “Mother, I’d like to introduce you to Gideon Ryder. The poor soul whose been pretending to be Rip’s girlfriend the past week and a half.”

The woman on the screen was older but there was nothing old about her, her dark eyes spoke of deep intelligence and a hint of amusement.

“This is our mother, Mary Xavier,” Eve introduced them.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Gideon laughed, hoping her blush wasn’t too obvious.

“And you, Gideon. I’m extremely grateful to you for helping out,” Mary Xavier stated, “Michael insisted on coming alone and finding a way to not be noticed.”

“It’s been a lot of fun. I don’t want to be rude, but we have the candle making class soon,” Gideon said, “Is he…”

“Just round the back of the office as always,” Eve told her, “Have fun.”

“It was nice to meet you, Gideon,” Mary smiled warmly.

“And you,” Gideon gave a slight nod before she slipped away heading to the small section of the office that Rip used.

He didn’t notice her arrive as he paced the phone at his ear.

“Okay,” Rip said, “I will be home in a few days, and I will bring you a souvenir I promise,” he laughed smiling, “I love you too.”

The words hit her like a hammer and Gideon felt tears fill her eyes, this couldn’t have happened again.

  Rip smiled when he finished his call, hearing a gasp near him.

Looking round Rip saw Gideon staring at him horrified and he winced realising what part of the conversation she’d heard.

“Gideon,” he called as she spun and darted out the room, “Bugger.”

Chasing after her, he shook his head when Eve called after him confused. Running out the office, Rip saw Gideon at the end of the corridor and jogged after her.

“Leave me alone,” Gideon snapped when he caught up with her.

“Please, let me explain,” Rip said.

She shook her head, “I don’t want to hear.”

Rip stepped in front of her making her stall and Gideon looked up at him with glistening eyes, “Was it fun? Playing with me knowing what happened with Max. Was it fun?”

“Come here,” Rip used his key card to get them into the employee break room, which was thankfully empty. Gideon reluctantly sat on the sofa and waited.

“What you heard isn’t what you think,” Rip told her crouching in front of her.

Gideon folded her arms and demanded angrily, “Then what was it? How should I interpret you telling the person on the other end of the call that you love them too?”

“I have a son, Gideon,” Rip said softly.

“What?” amazement filled her voice although he could still see scepticism in her eyes.

Rip shrugged slightly, “I have a son. I was talking to him.”

“Why didn’t…”

“Because I don’t talk about him outside the family,” Rip replied, “And you were not supposed to be anything more than an acquaintance.”

Gideon sat silently taking in what he’d told her.

Taking a seat at her side, Rip smiled proudly, “His name is Jonas. He was a few months old when Miranda died. He’s my world and I hate being away from him. I make sure I call him each day.”

“How old is he now?” Gideon asked softly.

Rip grinned, “He turned ten a few days before I came here.”

“Do you have a picture?” Gideon asked quickly adding, “I’m not trying to make you prove anything.”

“It’s okay but that is a very dangerous question,” Rip chuckled as he pulled out his phone to find a picture to show her, “We could be here for days.”

Gideon giggled before smiling when Rip handed her his phone with the picture of a grinning blond-haired boy on it.

“That’s him on his birthday,” Rip explained.

“He’s adorable,” Gideon told him, as Rip beamed with pride, “And looks so much like you.”

She handed him his phone back, “I’m sorry…”

“No,” Rip cut her off, “I know what it must have sounded like. I intended to tell you about Jonas at lunch when we had the talk regarding what happens with us once the cruise ends.”

Gideon looked up at him, her eyes soft with hope, “Do you want something to happen?”

Rip gently cupped her face in his hands, “Yes. You’re the first woman I have felt anything for in a long time. I just hope the fact I’m a single father won’t change how you see me.”

“It does,” Gideon whispered, “Seeing that look of pride and adoration on your face when you talk about Jonas, it makes you even more amazing in my eyes.”

Rip kissed her softly, before resting his forehead against hers.

“We should go,” Gideon said after a moment, “You still have a job to do.”

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

  Gideon was surprised how quickly the two weeks had passed and they were leaving the ship very soon. Sara was doing a final check of the room to make sure nothing had been forgotten before they left.

“Are you ready?” Rip asked, appearing at their door.

Gideon nodded smiling as he took her carryon from her, “Yes,” she took his hand and they headed up to the main deck to watch the ship going into port.

Their relationship was very young, barely a few days had passed since their first kiss but Gideon was happy and looking forward to getting to know him better.

“So, Sara,” Rip said, “I hear you will be joining us after all.”

Sara laughed, “I had a lot of fun and I will get to oversee my own team. I thought I’d give it a try.”

“Well, we’re happy to welcome you to the team,” Rip smiled, he spotted Eve waving him over, “I’ll be back in a minute,” he promised pressing a quick kiss to Gideon’s lips before heading away leaving them alone.

At Gideon’s smile, Sara chuckled, “And you didn’t want to come on the cruise.”

“I concede it was a brilliant idea,” Gideon told her, “You did well out of the two weeks. A fantastic new job where you can finally get away from working for Isabelle.”

Sara sighed, “It is the dream. I can’t wait to hand in my resignation. I would love to tell her exactly what I think of her but instead I’m going to be super sweet and just say how sad I am to be leaving.”

“That’ll drive her crazy,” Gideon agreed amused.

“What about you?” Sara asked, “Are you sure about moving in with Rip?”

Gideon rolled her eyes at her friend, “I’m not moving in with him. He invited me to spend a few days at their summer home where we can get to know each other better, and I can also get to know Jonas.”

Wrapping her arm around her friend, Sara smiled, “You really like Rip, don’t you?”

Gideon nodded, “I do.”

“Good.”

  Rip offered Gideon his hand as she stepped onto the dock and they started towards the car waiting for them. He was surprised when the doors opened, and his little boy bounded out while his mother watched from the front passenger window.

“Jonas,” Rip crouched to catch his son in a hug, “Oh I missed you so much.”

“I missed you too, Daddy,” Jonas whispered.

Pulling back Rip rested his hand on his son’s cheek for a moment before he stood and turned to the beautiful woman standing waiting.

“Jonas, I want you to meet someone,” Rip said with a smile, “This is Gideon. She’s going to spend a few days with us at the summer house.”

“Hello, Jonas,” Gideon smiled at him offering her hand, “Your dad has told me so much about you.”

Jonas took her hand and smiled back, “Are you my Daddy’s new girlfriend?”

“Ahh…”

“Yes,” Rip told him with a smile, “Is that okay?”

Jonas nodded, “Grandma says you need one.”

Rip frowned at his mother while Gideon chuckled behind him.

“It’s lovely to meet you in person, Gideon,” his mother spoke up, “We can talk more during the drive.”

Rip shook his head at her before turning to his son again, “Back in the car and we’ll get going."

His little boy, and light of his life, beamed at him before bouncing back into the car. Rip turned to Gideon and rested his hands on her waist.

“Last chance to run away,” he told her.

Gideon slid her arms around his neck, “I think I’ll stay.”

“Good,” he kissed her, frowning when Jonas called at them to hurry up.

Taking Gideon’s hand, Rip led her to the car. Sliding in Rip sat with Jonas on one side and Gideon on the other as they headed away from the dock.

Glancing at the beautiful woman at his side, Rip smiled happy he’d been talked into spending the two weeks on the cruise.

[shitandfics]

To the future: Captain America alternative arc

Warning: angst, mention of depression, death.

I wrote this many months before Endgame. I had no idea they would screw up that big. So, here an alternative ending to our favorite Avenger and best friendship and love story they ever told.

Sumary: After Steve's death, the Avengers aren't the same. They are falling apart and in need of a true leader. What happens when the America's hero is no longer among us?

Steve was buried with military honors, which would make him uncomfortable. After all, he left the government, turned his back to SHIELD, fought UN, was a fugitive, a man fighting his own battle to protect his oldest friend and the whole world. Steve was a man with his own moral compass and no one could stop him from doing what was right.

A memorial was constructed to honor him, his doings, his legacy. Everyone need to remember the man he was, the man he wanted to be and how important is to do the right thing even when it demands the sacrifice of your own life. Steve died fighting for humanity.

Bucky chewed this guilty for good amount of time. He felt since they were kids he needed to protect Steve from the evils of this world. Aahhh…sweet and stubborn boy who used to pick up fights in alleys, who used to get his ass kicked. Sarah asked him to protect his son from himself. But Bucky couldn't do that. He broke his vows twice now. So he recluded himself, hidden in an almost inhospitable place.

All the Avengers mourned Steve's death. Sam and Natasha didn't speak with Tony for a whole year. Part of this disgrace was on him. Tony knew that too. They needed to be together now more than never. Not because Earth was facing another deadly threat but because they were The Avengers. People need them more than they think. But without Steve, everything was… loose.

Every time Nick put them in a room together, they fought. Infinity arguing. One day, Nat punched Happy in the face. Maria tried everything but they were sloppy in missions, unreliable when teaming up. The Avengers were a big failure now. They needed someone who could do what Steve did but nobody in that room was fit for the job.

Tony was aware of the issues. He knew the team wasn't working out anymore because they didn't have a true leader. There was just one person on this planet who could wear Captain America's mantle and he was nowhere near to be found.

Stark Industries started to finance more Harvard and MIT kids who developed super high tech GPS. Of course, he approved the boldest ones: illegally hacking on satellites. That was the way he found Bucky living a hut in Syberia amongst wolf-like animals. So, he sent Nat and Sam to do the talking. It was their last shot.

Bucky didn't hide just because he was feeling guilty but, mainly, because if he failed protecting and saving his best friend, the most important person of his life, he wasn't worthy. He was dangerous to people, toxic, not to mention he didn't know if the reprogramming T'challa did would work in case of Hydra try to get him again. He lived in peace for 8 months until his friends knocked on his door. He was surprised he managed to live by his own for such long time considering Stark had money, IQ and all the best technology and gadgets of the entire world in an arm length.

"Un soldat" Nat greeted.

"I'm not this anymore" he replied with a deep voice. Liberating the door allowing them to come in.

"Thanks, God! You know English" Sam joked with no humor in his voice.

"People are finally enjoying an era free of imminent enemies and you come to pick up the monster?" Bucky fired.

"Actually, we need a hero. Someone who understands the darkest parts of a human mind and yet try to do good in this world, James" Nat confessed.

"I'm no hero. Steve is dead because he was a true hero and tried to save the world. He always did that and look what it caused to him". Bucky couldn't hide the pain in his voice.

"On the other hand, I was once the villain, the face people feared the most" he continued, looking to the fireplace, incapable of staring at his friends.

"The Avengers are no longer friends. We're bunch of freaks trying to work together. But people need us. That's why Fury created this group of people with unique abilities, capable of doing what no one else can" she said. Stevie face crossed her mind, making it difficult to speak.

"Dude, listen up. I'm not ya friend, ya know? But Steve loved ya crazy ass, he did everything he could to protect you and I joined him cuz I believed in him" Sam spoke. "I mean, if he believe you were worth to put up a fight against the world, you're enough to do the job" he continued. Sam had a point. Steve believed in Bucky. Maybe he should believe in himself.

"Bucky, Sam is right". Nat used her soft voice.

"Tony is not reliable as a leader. He never was. He snapped when Steve died. He fell into deep depression, resentment. Sometimes seems he's not even there, just a shell. Pepper is worried about his mental health" she told him the truth.

"I'm the former Winter Soldier. Nobody is gonna trust me. I've never been a leader. I followed orders for 70 years. I don't remember how to make choices" he screamed.

"Believe in yourself as much as Steve did. Come back with us. Cuz my black ass is freezing in this goddamn place" Sam sassied. His sarcastic self was unfreezing. Pun intended.

Convincing Bucky to go back to the civilization, to meet everyone was their toughest mission so far. He promised to try to work with them as a team, to be what Steve saw in him since they found each other back.

Life gave and took Steve from Bucky many times but this time it is forever and the weight of it wasn't helping them to find a common ground. Guilty was eating them alive.

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

It wasn't easy to step inside that damn building with so much memories made there.

"Welcome back, Sgt Barnes" Maria greeted him at the front door.

"Hi, Agent Hill" he greeted her. His voice was low, shy.

"I know how difficult it is to you after what we've done and that's the last place you wanted to be in. But we need you, James. You were once a man fighting in the right side. Do it again. If not for us, do it for Steve" she almost begged. Maria left before he could answer her.

******

When Bucky stepped inside the room, everyone was there. Tony was standing at the end of the giant glass table, looking straight at him with a blank face. He was skinnier, sporting dark circles under his eyes; the definition of looking exhausted.

"Mr. Barnes, I believe it belongs to you now" he pointed to the center of the table. That was the first time the saw the shield there.

"Excuse me? It belongs to Steve. Always did. Your father made it for him. But now he's dead" Bucky raised his voice, almost screaming. Anger making his blood boils.

Tony breathed heavily. "You are right" he said and everybody stopped to pay attention to the conversation. No even a fly dared to make a sound. "My father made this shield for him. Howard Stark himself paid for this piece of vibranium. The rarest and only sample of this metal in his time. He loved the man". His eyes fell to the object placed between them with melancholy. He contoured the table, grabbed the uniform and offered to him. "Seems I screwed up the legacy. As a way to make things even, I think it should stay with the closest and most important person of Steve's life: you".

People blinked in shock. Nobody expected this. Bucky was in the lack of words.

"I think you should accept it" Nat said, breaking the awkward silence that fell upon them. Both men looked at her.

"I believe Steve would be glad to have his best friend wearing the uniform" declared Clint. He was standing on a dark corner of the room.

That's how Bucky became the new Captain America. He had much to live up to honor Steve and his legacy. At first, people were skeptical of the former highly trained HYDRA assassin aka Winter Soldier fighting at the right side. But time always reveals the truth.

Bucky started to feel more like his old self, the Brooklyn boy who saved his friend many times, who flirted with pretty girls and loved technology. Sam and Nat became inseparable, always joining Bucky on missions. "The Golden trio" people called them. Even a spark of romance started between Nat and him.

"So, where are we going, Nat?" He asked.

"To the future" she replied. Bucky recognized the line and froze. He said it to Steve in the 40's. Last time, he lost someone he loved and went through hell. But future also brought great things. A warm feeling started to grow inside him and spread through his chest. "Future is bright" he thought, a smile widening on his beautiful, untouched by time face.

[darling-blurbs]

Character Sheet I found on Deviantart

Verse: (The universe your character belongs to. Can be original or fanfiction. [Ex: Original : The name of your book, movie, game or whatever. Fanfiction: Pokemon, Star Trek, Naruto, ect.) Date: (The date this sheet was completed.) Full Name: (Self explanatory) Pronunciation: (Self explanatory) Nickname/Alias: (Does your character have a pet name, fake identity, or any other thing they like to go by? Put it here.) Meaning: ([Ex: Emily means "admiring" and William means "protector"] If you aren't sure your character's name has a meaning look it up, I'm sure you'll find something. If it's a fantasy name you made yourself, give it a meaning.) Origin: (How did you come up with your character's name?) Title: (Do have a title along with their name? [Ex: Sir, Captain, Ms.]) Pet Name: (What do other people call your character? [kid, squirt, babe, ect] May be insulting, endearing, or a combination of both. May have more than one, if other characters call them different things. ID Number: (A number that may also be used to identify your character, such as tournaments and prison settings) Signature: (What is their handwriting like?) Gender: (Self explanatory) Gender Role: (Does your character generally act more feminine or masculine?) Orientation: (Ex: Straight, Bisexual, Homosexual) Real Age: (How old your character is in years) Age Appearance: (How old does your character look? This is mostly for immortal creatures such as deities, but can be used with anybody. [if someone looks older or younger than their age) Birthday: (Self explanatory) Deathday: (May not have one yet) Birthplace: (Where was your character born?) Astrological Sign: (Western) Zodiac Sign: (Eastern) Immediate Family: (Who was your character raised by?) Distant Family: (The ones they don't see every day) Parenting: (Were their parents strict or fun-loving?) Upbringing: (What morals and ideals were your characters raised with?) Infancy: ([0-2] What was it like when your character was a baby? Were they nurtured or dropped at birth?) Childhood: ([3-12] What was it like for your character growing as a kid ?) Adolescence: ([13-17] Teen years) Adulthood: ([18+] When your character has fully matured. If your character isn't yet an adult, plan what would happen to them in the future.) Coming of Age: (When and how did your character "grow up"?) Evolution: (How has your character changed since they were younger?) Species: (Human, animal, or a fantasy race) Ethnicity: (Self Explanatory) Blood Type: (Self explanatory) Preferred Hand: (Right handed, left handed, or ambidextrous?) Facial Type: (Ex: Oval, heart, square, round, ) Eye Color: (Self explanatory) Hair Color (Self Explanatory) Hairstyle: (Self explanatory) Skin Tone: (Self Explanatory) Complexion: (Self explanatory) Makeup: (If any) Body Type: (Endomorph, Ectomorph, Mesomorph, or somewhere in between?) Build: (Long legs, chubby cheeks, or muscular arms?) Height: (In inches) Weight: (In pounds) Cup Size: (Self explanatory) Facial Hair: (If applicable) Shoe Size: (Self Explanatory) Birthmarks/scars: (Self explanatory) Distinguishing Features: (Something unique that stands out) Health: (How healthy is your character?) Energy: (How much energy does your character have on a daily basis?) Memory: (How well does your character remember things, and what do they remember?) Senses: (Are any of your character's senses better or worse than others?) Allergies: (Self Explanatory. May be optional.) Handicaps: ([Ex: A limp, deafness, missing an eye] May be optional.) Medication: (What meds do your character take, if any?) Phobias: (Things that simply terrify your character. May be trivial or debilitating. Try to have at least one.) Addictions: (Drugs, alcohol, gambling, or bad teen romance) Mental Disorders: ([Ex: Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Paranoia.] May be optional.) Style: (The overall style your character shows, not just limited to clothing. Ex: Punk, Goth, Nerd) Mode of Dress: (Don't describe their clothes here. Describe how they wear their clothes. Two people can wear a suit, but each will wear it differently. [Ex: Is the shirt tucked in?]) Grooming: (Well-kept or messy?) Posture: (How does your character present themselves? Ex: Stiff, slouchy, suggestive) Gait: (The speed and style which how your character moves) Coordination: (How physically fit is your character? Also add things like reflexes, ect.) Habits and Mannerisms: (Any nervous ticks or unconscious habits your character might have. Ex: Nail biting, crosses arms, or twirls hair) Scent: (What does your character smell like? Good or bad? How strong?) Mood: (What mood are you most likely to catch your character in?) Attitude: (How does your character interact with others?) Stability: (How emotionally consistant are they?) Expressiveness: (Do they hide emotion or let it out openly?) When Happy: (Ex: Whistles, sings, skips) When Depressed: (Ex: locks themself in their room, listens to music, hugs a stuffed animal) When Angry: (Ex: Punches walls, screams at people, trolls online) Note: These are generalizations. Different situations will create different reactions. Current Residence: (Where does your character live right now? May or may not include a geographical location) Community: (What does the general population act like where your character lives?) Family: ([Ex: Parents, children, siblings] Include stepfamilies if it applies, and label as such.) Friends: (Who does your character like to hang out with?) Enemies: (Who does your character despise?) Bosses: (Who does your character answer to) Followers: (Who answers to your character?) Heroes: (Who does your character look up to?) Rivals: (Who are they competing with?) Relates to: (Who is similar to your character?) Pets/Familiars: (Describe a pet your character owns, real or fantasy and give it a name.) Wardrobe: (Describe your character's closet. What is their formal, casual, or other kind of wear?) Equipment: (Refers to tools or weapons your character may use. [Ex: A sword for a warrior] Accessories: (Tattoos, piercing, jewelry, glasses, ect.) Trinkets: (Applies to but not limited to good luck charms, purses, watches, or any other items they carry with them almost all the time.) Funds: (How much cash does your character have on hand, and how much at home/in the bank?) Home: (What is your character's house like? Describe it's overall appearance, [Ex: Shabby, fancy] type of house, [Trailer, mansion] and describe things such as the yard, wallpaper, or any other information. Things like bedrooms count as your character's home.) Neighborhood: (What are the people and places near your character like?) Transportation: (How does your character get around? [Ex: Car, bus, bike]) License Plate Number: (Can be regular numbers, or something more creative. Adjust for your country.) Collections: (Does your character like to hoard or collect anything?) Most valuable possession: (In money) Prized Possession: (What object does your character value above all else?) Lovers: (From childhood crushes, to exes, to a married partner, who does your character love?) Marital Status: (Ex: Single, Taken, Dating, Available) Sex Life: (Pretty self explanatory) Type: (Eros/ragma/Banquet/Mania/Ludus/Storge) Turn-Ons: (What does your character want to see in their ideal mate?) Turn Offs: (What tends to make them back off) Position: (Dom/Sub) Plays: (Bondage, roleplay, ect.) Fetishes: (Self Explanatory) Virginity: (How many times have they "done it"?) Element: (Fire/Water/Air/Earth) Occupation: (Self explanatory) Work Ethnic: (How hard does your character work? How do they feel about their job?) Rank: (How high up are they on the corporate ladder?) Income: (How much money do they make?) Wealth Status: (How well financed is your character? Ex: Upper, middle, or lower class) Experience: (Include things like pasts jobs, or things that contributed to current occupation.) Organizations/Affiliations: (Who does your character side with?) IQ: (Self explanatory) Education: (How good is their education?) School: (What was their school like?) Grade: (What grades would they get?) Special Education: (Did they ever get held back or get honor role?) Social Stereotype: (ex: nerd, goth, punk) Degrees: (What degrees did/would they earn in school?) Intelligence: (Linguistic/logical/spatial/kinesthetic/musical/interpersonal/intrapersonal/naturalist) Extracurricular Activities: (Such as P.E. or art) Religion: (Self Explanatory) Morals: (What does your character find morally right or wrong?) Crime Record: (Relationship with authority, laws broken, and crimes committed.) Motivation: (What moves your character? [Ex: Power, money, love)] Priorities: (What does your character place first, second, and third?) Philosophy: (Your character's outlook on life) Political Party: (Ex: Democrat, Republican, Liberal, or Conservative) Etiquette: (How good our your characters manners? Do they bow or chew with their mouth open?) Culture: (Any things your character may do specific to a certain culture. [Ex: Bowing in Japan] Do your research on this one or you could offend people. ) Influences: (Who or what inspires your character to change? Do they influence anyone else?) Relates to: (Who can your character relate to?) Traditions: (Does your character sit around the table with their family? What holidays do they celebrate?) Superstitions: (spilling salt, knocking on wood) Main Goal: (Driving force in the story. May be subject to change.) Minor Goals/Ambitions: (What is your character trying to accomplish?) Career: (What would be your character's dream job?) Desires: (What does your character want?) Wishlist: (What material items does your character want?) Accomplishments: (Did they succeed in any goals?) Greatest Achievement: (Self Explanatory) Biggest Failure: (Self Explanatory) Secrets: (Everyone has at least one) Regrets: (Self Explanatory) Worries: (What do they worry about?) Best Dream:  (What would be the best thing that could possibly happen to your character?) Worst Nightmare: (The worst thing that could ever happen?) Best Memories: (A few stand out memories from the past. [keep it short and sweet]) Worst Memories: (A few stand out memories from the past. [keep it short and sweet]) Hobbies/Interests: (What does your character like to do for fun?) Skills/Talents: (Similar to hobbies, but refers to the level of skill a character has. For example, a character could like playing violin but isn't very good at it or vice versa.) Likes: (What does your character like?) Dislikes: (What can't they stand?) Sense of Humor: (Dark/dry/witty/sarcastic/dirty/childish/sophisticated/ironic) Pet Peeves: (Similar to dislikes, only more relating to human behavior than specific objects. Ex: When people tap on things or when people say "You're not fat!" when you really are) Superstitions/Beliefs: (Does your character believe in conspiracy theories or aliens? Do they throw salt over their shoulder or knock on wood?) Dreams/Nightmares: (What do they dream about? [at night]) Quirks: (The strange little things that your character does to make them unique. Ex: Sleeps with their feet on the pillow or runs their hand along a pole as they walk beside it.) Savvy: (What is your character particularly well-informed of? [Ex: Politically, nature) Can't understand: (Something they just can't get into, such as English literate or obsession with sports) Closet Hobby: (Something that your character likes but isn't too obvious.) Guilty Pleasure: (You know...) Strengths: (What makes them stand a bit above the crowd? [Ex: Courageous, good listener, calm under pressure] Not supernatural abilities.) Flaws: (Refers to negative personality traits, not a weakness. Make sure it's a deep flaw that could actually affect your character, not something trivial like "She can't dance". [Ex: Lies constantly, socially backwards, hot-tempered]) Perception: (How does your character generally see the world?) Conflicts: (What issues make your character want two things, but they can't have both?) Instincts: (What they are unconsciously driven to do) Lures: (What are they inexplicably drawn to be near? Ex: Power, money, the helpless) Soft Spot: (Their vulnerability, what they feel sorry for or have particularly good feelings toward) Cruel Streak: (What makes a character act against their usual morals, and act especially mean? (everyone has something that can do this to them)) Powers/Abilities: (Here is where to put any superhuman powers and other abilities your character possesses. Be sure to balance them out with weaknesses, or your character loses credibility. This section may be optional depending on what genre you write.) Origin: (How did they get their powers?) Source: (How do they use their powers? [ex: shoots fire from hands, can read minds with their ring) Ability: (How adept are they at using said powers? Weaknesses: (Make it something that your character exclusively is weak to, and keep it credible. [Ex: A 4-headed radioactive dinosaur is not a credible weakness.]) Immunities: ([Ex: cannot be burned] Be very careful with this one.) Restrictions: (An absolute necessity for those with supernatural powers. [Ex: Can only breathe fire when angry or can only cast darkness spells twice a day]) Alternate Forms: (Transformations, shape shifting abilities, dark side, ect.) Extra Anatomy: (Such as wings or a third eye) Favorite Colors: Favorite Animals: Favorite Mythological Creatures: Favorite Places: (Ex: Fav City, State, or Country) Favorite Landmarks: (Ex: Eiffel Tower, Mt. Rushmore) Favorite Flavors: (Ex: Vanilla, Sour, Strawberry) Favorite Foods: Favorite Drinks: Favorite Characters: (Not one of yours) Favorite Genre: Favorite Books: Favorite Movies:   Favorite Games: Favorite Shows: Favorite Music: Favorite Bands: Favorite Songs: Favorite Sports: Favorite Stores: Favorite Subjects: Favorite Numbers: Favorite Websites: Favorite Words: Favorite Quotations: (Can be lengthy and philosophical or just simple clichés such as "Every dog has his day) Least Favorite Colors: Least Favorite Animals: Least Favorite Mythological Creatures: Least Favorite Places: Favorite Landmarks: Least Favorite Flavors: Least Favorite Foods: Least Favorite Drinks: Least Favorite Characters: Least Favorite Genre: Least Favorite Books: Least Favorite Movies:   Least Favorite Games: Least Favorite Shows: Least Favorite Music: Least Favorite Bands: Least Favorite Songs: Least Favorite Sports: Least Favorite Stores: Least Favorite Subjects: Least Favorite Numbers: Least Favorite Websites: Least Favorite Words: Least Favorite Quotations: (Can be lengthy and philosophical or just simple clichés such as "Every dog has his day) Languages: (What languages does your character speak and how fluently?) Accent: (Self explanatory) Voice: (High pitched, low pitched) Speech Impediments: (Stutters, slurs, or whistles) Greetings and Farewells: (How does your character say hello and goodbye?) State of Mind: (Ask your character "how are you" and see how they respond) Compliment: (Have your character say something nice) Insult: (Have your character insult someone) Expletive: (Can be an actual cuss (Ex: Dammit) or some kind of substitute. (Ex: Darn it!) Laughter: (What does your character's laugh sound like?) Tag Line: (Something your character says a lot in everyday sentences. Can often be filled with a sound or vocalization. Ex: Lol, dude, uh) Signature Quote: (Something significant your character says. Doesn't have to be meaningful, just make it memorable.) Reputation: (What does the general population think of your character?) First Impressions: (What would you first think of this character upon meeting them?) Stranger Impressions: (If someone was told about the character but didn't know them, what would they think?) Friendly Impressions: (What do people who are friends or acquaintances of your character think of them?) Enemy Impressions: (What do people who can't stand your character think? If you can't think of anyone who hates your character, we have a problem.) Familiar Impressions: (What do people very close to your character think of them? Ex: Family, lovers) Compliments: (What are some good things other people would say of your character? [heroic, good listener]) Insults: (Would anyone like to call your character a whore, jerk, or stupid?) Self-Impression: (What does your character really think of themselves deep down?) MBTI Personality Type: [Ex: ENTP, ISTJ] Temperament: (Chloric/Sanguine/Melancholic/Phlegmatic) May also be called color types, such as yellow, red, blue, or green) Enneagram: (The Reformer/The Helper/The Achiever/The Individualist/The Investigator/The Loyalist/The Enthusiast/The Challenger/The Peacemaker) Ego/Superego/Id: (Superego is aims for perfection, society, and the idea of right and wrong. Id is unconscious desires and instincts - Which of these are they most driven by? The Self: (The center/core of your character) The Shadow: (The opposite qualities your character themselves does not believe they possess, but do subconsciously) The Anima/Animus: (The part of the character of the opposite gender) Persona/Mask: (What they present to the world, or the side they use to protect themselves) Role: (What purpose does your character serve? [mentor, leader]) Fulfillment: (How well do they serve that role?) Significance: (Why does your character matter?) Alignment: (Good/Evil/Neutral/Lawful/Chaotic) Comparison: (Compare your character to some kind of animal, object, or anything else you can think of.) Symbol: (Does your character have any kind of recurring symbol that represents them? [Ex: a rose, a black cat, a sunset] Could be blatant or subtle.) Song: (A song you think best suits your character) Vice: (Pride/Greed/Gluttony/Lust/Envy/Sloth/Wrath) Virtue: (Patience/Diligence/Chastity/Temperance/Charity/Kindness/Humility) Defining Moment: (This is it. The single greatest moment of your character, when they truly become alive.) Tropes: (What about your character is stereotypical or cliched? [You can't say nothing. Every character has some kind of cliche in them]) Originality: (What makes your character different from one like them? One Word: (Use a single adjective to sum up your character in a nutshell) Character Sheet © Character-Resource

[thekrazykeke]

Title: Mad, Mad World

Fandom(s): Black Panther, MCU

Relationship(s): Sam Wilson & reader. T’Challa x reader.

Summary: Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried, but truthfully, you’ve only been planted.

Warning(s): Captain America Civil War spoilers, angst

Now that I’ve gotten a taste of soulmate au’s, I’m hooked tbh. This story was inspired by what my Dimples, @lovelylittlekittn, told me about her day and also, this post. The Ryan Destiny gifs come from @kbunburyhelps like usual, seriously, check out her blog.

Naturally, if you like what you’ve read, give it a like or reblog. 

Without further ado, let’s goooo!

~

Bzz-bzz-bzz!

You desperately wanted to ignore your cellphone, which had not stopped it’s incessant buzzing but as a light sleeper and someone who’d been suffering from insomnia for the past few days, that’s impossible. Grumbling heatedly underneath your breath, blindly reaching out for the device with your left hand, eyes still partially closed as you’re so tired... 

The cellphone is knocked off the bedside dresser and lands on the plush carpet. 

Letting out a frustrated huff, you lean over the side of the comfortable bed to snag the device, which much to your irritation, still hadn’t stopped buzzing. Ripping off the eye mask, you quickly entered the numerical code to the phone and answered the call. 

“Hello!?” 

You listened to the person on the other end, tone shifting from aggressive and angry to something more...polite. “Sir, it’s...No, I haven’t watched the news recently.” Rolling your eyes, you paused, listening to what’s said next, lips pursed. “...I see. No. It’s not an inconvenience at all, sir. I’ll be there. See you soon, sir.” Pressing the ‘End Call’ button, you lean back against the pillows, touching the silk black bonnet on your head, thankfully it hadn’t come off while you were dozing. “I better see a nice, fat bonus on that next check or a raise or somethin’. Tryna work a bitch like a modern day slave and shit...” Throwing the covers and sheets off of your body, you swung your legs over the side. “Got me fucked up. Just fucked up! He knows good and damned well it’s my day off.” Still complaining bitterly, you toss the eye mask onto the bedside dresser before sluggishly half walking, half stumbling, towards the bathroom. 

Once inside, you shiver as the chill that permeates the room washes over you. Goosebumps pepper your beautiful, brown skin as you quickly strip out of your night clothes and turn the knobs for the hot and cold water for a shower, then step inside. For a few seconds, you let the warm, borderline scalding, water, sluice over you, then began to quickly go about completing your daily hygienic routine. 

After showering, brushing your teeth, and toweling dry, you re-enter the bedroom, towel wrapped around your waist as you opened the closet door. You’re on a timed schedule, so you shove aside the pre-planned weekend outfits for the more conventional and convenient work uniform; a pretty white blouse, black dress pants and comfortable dress shoes. Sighing near silently, you mentally wave farewell to those grand plans of yours. Placing the uniform over the back of a chair, you sit down on the bed again after grabbing some necessary items to complete the morning routine. Then when you’ve moisturized, put on some deodorant and slipped into the uniform, you run a hand down the front of your outfit, smoothing away any imaginary wrinkles.

‘Yaaas, I look amazing, as always.’ From the tips of your hair to the soles of your feet, you were that boss bitch and endeavored to show it off everyday of your life. Cellphone buzzing again, you rolled your eyes as you snagged your purse and car keys, closing the bedroom door on the way out. 

Tapping the code to unlock the device, you absently admitted that while you loved your job, you weren’t going to hop, skip, and jump. The link that’d been sent to your phone gave details about the Winter Soldier having blown up a building in Vienna, several people had been injured, even more dead, among them being the late King of Wakanda, T’Chaka. 

You picked up the pace.

~

“This is Y/N Wilson’s desk. Excellent at her job, she demands that same thoroughness of her subordinates. We probably wouldn’t have even caught actual footage of the Soldier without one of her people being on the late shift.” Ross stated, leaning against the mahogany desk.

“You’ve been singing her praises since we got here.” Sam pointed out, ignoring how Steve told him to relax wordlessly. “I’m just saying, the curiosity is killing me.” 

“It’s the same for me, actually.” he paused. “Is Wilson here or not, Agent Ross?” Steve asked, trying to keep the accusing note out of his voice. The agent opened his mouth, about to bluster some more, when the door opened. 

“Present and accounted for.” 

Sam maintained his professional countenance but only just barely. 

Steve wasn’t faring any better. 

You ignored them both, merely swept your gaze to your boss, “Some files needed my signature, a few boxes with paper files needed updating to digital form as well. Apologies for my tardiness.” That had always been your go-to excuse and Ross rolled with it, nodding along, though you were sure you’d be reamed out later. Snapping your fingers together, you pointed at Steve, “Gotta admit, I love the way you work, big fella.”

A little crease formed as his brows furrowed. “Excuse me?”

“The way you and Barnes were just throwing the German Special Forces around like ragdolls. Whew! Jee-sus. Talk about strong. My favorite part is when Barnes picked up a cement block and threw it into the agent’s chest. I hear that poor shmuck’s still in surgery.”

Realization dawned on Sam’s face and he sighed, “Body cams.”

“Bucky was anxious. He didn’t mean...I didn’t mean...”

“To hurt anyone?” Brows raising, you smiled blandly. “Yes, I can understand that. You probably didn’t even think twice except for eliminating the threat to your other half.” 

In every textbook, in all the tragic romances of all time, the love between Captain America and Sgt. Barnes continued to sell the most, besides Romeo and Juliet. Teachers loved to use their SoulBond as an example of what true love should look like. Personally you thought it was bullshit, but hey, what did you know?

“However, it’s a flimsy defense that will get torn to shreds in court, so I’d suggest getting a damn good lawyer and not doing anything else to escalate this shitty situation. Your reputation as the revered all American national hero grants you some leeway, Barnes doesn’t have that luxury. So just sit back and let us do our job. Do you understand?” Steve didn’t reply and you frown. “I said, do you understand?”

Sam spoke up. “Hey. Ease up, alright?”

You gave him the evil eye. “Don’t worry. You and I, we’ve got a lot to discuss too.” He grimaced and you glanced back at the silent super soldier. “I just want to ensure that we’re all on the same page.”

Steve nodded, fist propped underneath his chin. “We’re on the same page.”

Nodding sharply to Ross and Rogers, you crook your fingers, beckoning Sam to follow as you turn, opening the door to leave, “Let’s talk in private.”

Private turned out to be a small, empty conference room that doubled as storage space. You’d barely closed and locked the door before Sam was blowing up at you. “What the hell was up with that interrogation in there? The way you talked to Cap, like you didn’t even know him? Like I haven’t invited him to Ma’s for dinner with the rest of the family?”

“Let me see if I have this straight. You’re chastising me for doing my job?” You raised your eyebrows, mouth pulled into an unamused smile. “Boy, check yaself. Don’t make me get out of character up in here, Sammy.”

His shoulders raised defensively. “Don’t call me that stupid nickname!”

“I’m not going to cut corners for Steve because you’re friends with him. Hell, I refuse to cut corners with you and you’re,” Voice lowering, even though the door is closed and locked, “My brother.” Tone raising back to a normal level, you continue on to say, “As it is, the Avengers have fallen out of public favor ever since the Ultron debacle and what happened in Sokovia. Then what happened in Lagos?” You snorted derisively. “Let’s just say that y’all skatin’ on some very thin ice. Keep following after Steve and someone is gonna end up clipping your wings.”

Sam crossed his arms over his chest, his disapproving frown would have stung any other time, but you couldn’t, wouldn’t, be swayed. “So, from your tone, I can assume that you’re pro-Accords.”

“The Accords, yeah. The politics, not exactly. I also think that things should be made harder for villains, and...” Sam had turned away from you and was about to walk out the door. “Is you forreal right now? You ‘bout to walk out and we ain’t done talking?”

He glanced back at you briefly. “It’s better I walk away now before I say something hurtful.”

“Sammy...” he shook his head, half out the door. “Sam.” You made an aborted move to follow but the way he gently closed the door was telling. Sam wasn’t one for dramatic or explosive fits of anger. 

He was a pro at silently expressed disappointment. 

Sucking in a fortifying breath, you fanned your face, blinking back sudden tears. ‘This is your workplace, damn it. Get it together.’ Counting to thirty, you manage to mentally get yourself in check, or at least enough to fake it to your colleagues if necessary. Straightening your spine, you exit the conference room, taking a turn to the left, only to bump into someone. When you glance up, it’s...

“I am so sorry! Oh, your coffee. Sorry again.” You’d accidentally knocked his coffee out of his hand. “Let me get you another.”

He held his hands up in a ‘calm down’ gesture. “That is unnecessary. It is fine.” The son of the late Wakandan king, T’Challa, shrugged. “In truth, it was horrible and I was looking for the excuse to throw it away.” 

You did a double take. “Wait, what?” He adopted a neutral expression. “What?” Feeling onto a hunch, you cautiously stated, “The coffee’s great here.”

“I imagine that sewer water would be far more appetizing.”

That startled a laugh out of you, even as realization slowly dawned. Pulse spiking with sudden anxiety, it’s hard to maintain eye contact now. Fingers brushed underneath your chin, encouraging you to look up and reluctantly, you obeyed. 

“Please. Don’t look away from me.”

Everything is suddenly too much, too quickly, too intense. “I...I can’t do this.” You feel on the verge of a panic attack as you stumble away from the royal. Shaking your head, mumbling under your breath, you do the hardest thing you’ve ever done in your life.

You walk away from your soulmate. (He’s royalty! He’s minemineminemine. Oh God, this is so fucked up. Soulmates can’t lie to each other, which means--)

And he lets you.

[joylessholland]

Princess In Me (Part One)

TOMHOLLANDXREADER (ROYAL)

(1,362 words)

Warnings: I don’t think there are any

A/N: Yes this is basically the movie Princess Diaries but with Tom, we all know we want this so just read it. No, in all seriousness I LOVE the movies to death and I decided to make a little royal romance story like them. We all know the queen is Julie Andrews and we all know the country is Genovia. I even bolded movie quotes!

Masterlist  Request  Christmas Prompts (i haven't gotten any asks for this so I might not do it lol)  BIG thanks to moodboard queen @kingquackdaddy !

Swirling your tea in the mugs you stare out the window of the loft. The day was damp and dreary as rain pattered against the roof. Breathing on the glass it fogs, drawing a smile on the glass you here the front door slam closed “Pizza” your mother yells from downstairs. Jumping from the window sill you land with a boom, peeling on a pair of paint-splattered overalls you skip downstairs.

In the kitchen soaking wet was your mother holding a large box in her hands “Hungry” she asked flipping her wet hair. “Starved” you huff opening the box, sausage and pineapple your favorite, kissing your cheek she places two plates down in front of you “How was your day dear,” she asks biting the tip of her first slice “Test in English, aced it. My gym teacher won’t get off my ass though” you snicker plopping down on the couch “How about you?” you ask running your hand through the couch cushions looking for the remote, when you find it you raise it to the TV your mother snatches it from your grasp “I have something to tell you, so just hear me out” sitting up your eyes go wide “Did you crash my… the car?” she smiles “No the car is fine, you’re still getting it when you turn eighteen and you can buy it.” She emphasized the last part “One more week and three hundred more bucks. Baby” you smile. Shaking her head, she pats your leg “Ok serious faces.” Dropping your smile, you make a very serious face “I got a call today and…your cousin was in an accident.” She smiles sadly

 “Kenny? Mary? Blake?” saying no to each she puts her finger to your lips “Other side of the family.” She smiles “I don’t…Greyson?” you scrunch your face as she nods slowly “He passed last night” sighing you shake your head “So what do we have to fly to London for the funeral?” you ask biting your pizza “Your cousin Greyson was the only child of your father’s sister. The last heir to the throne [N/O/C].” swallowing your half-chewed pizza you hang your mouth open “This…I. We don’t. What does this mean?” you ask after a long silence “If he was the heir that means…” She starts “I’m really the last heir” your breath quickens and your heart races. Running your hands through your hair you hyperventilate. “I can’t be a princess, you know I, like most kids wanted a car for my birthday, not a COUNTRY” you shout storming to your room.

Could you really be a princess? No, don’t be silly. You could barely keep a job at Walmart, you could never run a whole country. If they thought that you would participate in this little, act. They were crazy. A faint knock on your door ripped you from your thoughts, “What” you murmur from your spot perched on a high window sill. “Someone wants to talk to you,” your mother said holding up her tablet.

“Charlette how do I? oh there you are. Hello [Y/N] darling.” A cheery female voice chimes as your grandmother’s face flashes on screen “Grandma, I suppose you’re going to try to talk me into becoming a princess?” you mumble “Look [Y/N] I know you didn’t want this life, trust me your parents and I never wanted this for you. But with your father and your cousin now going. If you don’t do this [N/O/C] may cease to exist as we know it” “Look” you jump down into a crouched position before standing earning a sigh from you’re the Queen “I’m late for my beauty sleep.” You stare at the screen “I’m late for a meeting with Spain and Portugal” she scoffs “Well, let’s say this [Y/N] and I will fly out to [N/O/C] in two days and we will talk in person, we best not keep Spain and Portugal waiting. Does that work for you all” you mother chimes in. Giving a shrug, you nod slowly, over the screen Queen Clarisse agrees before saying goodbye.” Kissing your cheek your mother leaves the room, flopping onto the bed you groan into the pillow.

As the plane touched down it all felt so real for the first time, what would happen in the next few hours would change your entire life! It was your first time on a private jet and you were fascinated by all the little buttons and knobs. The bodyguard you were assigned hated you by the end of the six-hour flight, it gave you a small once of joy knowing that he was miserable because so were you. A black stretch limo was parked right on the runway, stepping from the plane you are greeted by a man in a black suit “My name is Joseph, I’ll be taking you to the palace.” He says opening the door for you he nods “Princess” as you step in. As the long car barrels down the highway, the partition opens “Her Majesty has requested you wear that to your meeting.” Groaning your mother looks at you from the front seat “Honey please, joe is just trying to do his job” sighing you close the partition and unzip the dress bag.

Grabbing Joe’s gloved hand, you step from the car, your freshly brushed curls blow in the wind, sweeping it out of your face you look down at yourself. The blue dress was beautiful and fit you like a glove, the heels were way too much but made you feel pretty, you weren’t the girl to wear stuff like this but when it came to it you could. The dress, the heels, the limo, and jet were clearly your grandmother trying to impress you. You hated yourself for it but it was kind of working. Stepping through the front doors of the palace made your heart soar, you’d been there once before when you were very young but the memories were just as strong. You remembered running through the gardens with your mother and father, you remembered trying on your grandmother’s clothes in her master closet, you thought back to the time you played hide and seek with the maids in the kitchen. Light graceful heel clicks pull you from your bliss as you meet the kind eyes of your grandmother, “[Y/N] you look, stunning” she says hugging you. “Thanks, grandma” turning to your mother she grabs her hand hugging her tight. “Tea is served” a woman in a purple skirt suit chimed.

“You don’t have to push anymore, I’ve made my decision.” Placing her tea back on the sauces Queens Clarisse grins brightly. The doors swinging open interrupts your reply “I am so sorry, your majesty” a male voice sings from the doorway “Oh, Tom please come here” she says waving the man over, “I want you to meet my granddaughter, [Y/N]” looking up from your tea you lock eyes with a gorgeous young man wearing black trousers and a light blue shirt, fumbling with his words he finally sticks out his hand. “I’m Thomas, prince… of somewhere” he laughs getting lost in your eyes. Standing you carefully grab his hand “[Y/N] princess of [N/O/C]” you coo staring at his sharp jaw, deep chocolate eyes, and thin pink lips. “Does that mean I have an answer” Queen Clarisse chimes pressing her hands together snapping you out of your trance “Yes, I accept your offer” Tom watches as you talk smiling at your words.

As Tom leaves the room you steal one last glance at the same time he looks back at you. Blushing you pick up your tea not noticing the look Your mother and grandma exchange at your actions. “I have one condition.” You say your voice strong “Yes, we can bring the car” you mother laughs making you squeal in joy “Ok so where do we start” “Two days, at a very important dinner party, I’m very glad I can introduce you as the next princess of [N/O/C]” she smiles. Thinking f Tom your heart soars, most girls dreamed of meeting a prince just a minute ago you were face to face with one.

Here are some beautiful KITTENS: @midtownvaledictorian@letsgetfuckingsuperwholocked@tiemeupspidey @captain-katie-xx@panicatttckiss@champagneholland@seilamigliorcosacheabbiamaivisto@mendes-holland @maggie-starz @natalie-kn@vaeyron@wonderyoung @ging3r-fall@louisnholland@little-weirdo-13@calumminter@sunshiineandmoonliight@tomhstories@rosieeemma @societalreject @bibs-fortuna@antisocialoutcast12@jadabelle @las-civus@oceantostars@tiemeupspidey @dr-tardis-who@hazelgracewatersaugustus@jessica-moon9@sophietanda @yasstoeverygirloutthere@beccaaahh5711@emptyy-skyy@parkeretmj@clairesrainbow@fangirltopic@marveltomjunkie  @kingquackdaddy

[shsl-otaku]

Where Greed Goes, Despair Follows: Chp. 12

Y/N: Raven Sin of Despair

Pairing: Ban & Y/N

Anime: Seven Deadly Sins

Genre: Adventure, Romance

Warnings: None

Tag List: @asgleo16 @yuri-2018 @vialuciferscage @commanderawkward @chidayasays @misfitgirlwrites @amberfoxcosplay @catlover7722 @shiggi-trash @supremetodoroki @happynoodle @remikay313 @milkysamu @kageyamis

•••

"Oi. Shortie. Wake up."

Your eyes fluttered open to see a shirtless Ban facing you, pointing your cheek. Your eyes widened and you quickly sat up. Ban laughed at you, pointing at you mockingly.

"Haha, very funny," you said, rolling your eyes. You pouted and rubbed your eyes. You looked out the window to see that the sun was setting. You turned to look at Ban. "You didn’t get any clothes?"

He rolled his eyes. "You think that any of your guys’ clothes fit on me? I’m like twice as tall has the Captain."

You laughed. "Good point." You dug through your drawers to look for an outfit for the Sins’ "celebratory reunion party." Ban sat on the bed, waiting.

You turned to face him, growing slightly self conscious. "What are you still doing here? You’re not gonna go outside or something?"

"Awwh, are you shy?" Ban teased, raising an eyebrow.

Your face blazed red and you stuck your tongue out at him. "Idiot!"

"You're the one that came to bust me out of prison," Ban said, raising his eyebrows at you.

"You're the one who got yourself in prison! Which, by the way, was a stupid decision," you retorted, pointing a finger at him.

"Yeah yeah, whatever." He leaned on the bedpost and smirked. "Hurry up and get ready so that we can get me some clothes already," he said.

You groaned as your cheeks flushed red. "Yeah but don’t look!" You threw a pillow at him as he cackled.

"I won’t look, I won’t," Ban laughed. He flopped onto the bed face first and stayed there. You rolled your eyes and smiled at his silliness.

"Okay. I’m ready."

Ban got up from the blankets and yawned dramatically. "Took you long enough. I was already falling back to sleep under the... blankets..." His eyes widened as he looked at you.

"What?" You asked, raising a brow at him. You wore a black monochrome outfit consisting of an off-shoulders long-sleeved top with a corset, shorts with chains hanging from the sides, a belt, and 3 inch heeled boots. You fixed your hair to be nicer than usual and had matching earrings and a necklace.

"Um, hello? Ban?" You said, waving your hand in front of him. Ban blinked a few times and hid his face behind his hand.

"Come on, dumbass. We’re gonna get me some clothes," Ban said, standing up and walking to the door of your room.

"What are you gonna do? Mug someone and steal their clothes?" You asked sarcastically, rolling your eyes.

Ban turned to smile cheekily at you.

"Wait—no I was only joking. Ban. Ban!"

He was already opening the front door of the Boar Hat. "Hurry up, idiot!"

You groaned and stomped to the front door. "I’m coming, you dumbass!"

•••

"Okay, Elizabeth. Let me officially introduce you. This is Ban, the Fox Sin of Greed," Meliodas said, showing Ban, who now wore red leather pants and a matching jacket with steel beads embedded on them, to Elizabeth. Elizabeth was lying in a bed due to her injuries she got from a fight with a Holy Knight.

"Nice to meet you," Ban said, grinning as he sat on top of a barrel of beer.

You stood by Diane, watching the scene that was happening.

"Uh, where did you get that outfit?" Meliodas asked Ban. Your eyes widened and you and Ban made eye contact. You fake coughed into your fist.

"Uh—It was a fluke," Ban said quickly.

Not too long ago...

He was already opening the front door of the Boar Hat. "Hurry up, idiot!"

You stomped to the front door. "I’m coming, you dumbass!"

You strolled through town together, your thumbs hanging onto your belt. Ban sauntered next to you. You two appeared to be a very weird duo: a well-dressed woman and a man who was hardly dressed at all.

A few villagers that you passed would stare at you two—some making comments on how attractive you looked and that they had never seen you before, and others wondering why there is a half naked man walking with you.

"Hey, look at that! That guy’s naked," a man said, snickering to his friend. He wore red leather pants and a matching jacket that had steel beads embedded in it. You looked to see the 'I’m so done with this' expression on Ban’s face and cackled.

"'Hey, look at that! That guy’s naked,'" you mocked, cackling.

"That lady with him is pretty hot though," you heard him whisper again. You groaned and cringed at the comment. Ban huffed and turned around to look at the two. Specifically, the one with the red outfit. Even more specifically, the one who made that comment about you.

The man with the red leather outfit heard Ban turn around and he glared at him.

"What are you looking at, you swine?" He sneered at Ban. You raised a brow as Ban's eyes narrowed in annoyance. You two looked at each other, then turned to look at the red leather guy with matching smirks.

•••

"—Speaking of introductions," Ban said, trying to change the subject. You laughed at his attempt. "It’s been a long time, Diane."

"I’d have been perfectly happy if I’d gone 100 years without seeing you," Diane said, turning away from him. You laughed at her.

"I’m Elizabeth. Please pardon me for not getting up," Elizabeth said from her bed. Ban got up from the barrel and walked to her bedside.

"Not at all, Highness," he said. "Our order doesn’t stand on ceremony." He bowed, making you pout with a hint of jealousy. "Let’s all be friends, the five of us."

"Don’t you mean six, buddy?" Hawk said, going unnoticed by Ban.

Ban looked at you and raised an eyebrow. "Are you out of it, idiot? There are only five."

"That wasn’t me, dumbass," you yelled, swatting his arm.

"There are six! Are you sure you don’t have a screw loose, buddy?" Hawk said again.

"Who said that?" Ban asked, looking thoroughly confused.

"I did," Hawk said, standing by Ban’s feet.

Ban’s face instantly changed to pure terror. "THAT PIG IS TALKING," he screamed, jumping back from Hawk. You fell to your knees, laughing loudly.

"You’re freaking out over that now?!" Hawk yelled, making you laugh even harder.

"No way! A pig that can talk like a person?! That’s really crazy!" He yelled, backing away from Hawk. You tried to stop laughing, shoulders shaking from the effort.

"I’ve got it! You’re King, aren’t you?” Ban said, pointing at Hawk. "That must be it! You were cursed and you finally turned into a real pig!"

You were now laughing hysterically, tears falling from your eyes as you occasionally gasped for breath.

"Guess again," Diane said, deadpanning.

"King is dead. According to rumor, anyway," Meliodas said.

"I’m warning you. I’m no ordinary pig," Hawk huffed. "I’m Sir Hawk, Captain of the Order of Scraps Disposal!"

"Oh, WOW!" Ban exclaimed. "I’ve never heard of that order before!"

You could no longer laugh. You writhed on the ground as you continued to cry and gasp for breath.

"Have you made your introductions?" The doctor guy asked. "Eat your dinner before it gets cold!" He was the one who was actually hosting the party after you guys saved his daughter.

"Let’s eat," Meliodas said, smiling widely.

"Don’t start without us, Captain," Ban said, running to the table.

You smiled at the two as they ran to the table and started getting food like two giddy little kids. You got up from the ground and started dusting yourself off. Your cheeks hurt from laughing and smiling so much.

•••

"C’mon, don’t hold out on me, Captain Hawk," Ban slurred as he laid on Hawk, his feet dragging behind them. You covered your mouth to keep yourself from laughing as you watched them from a safe distance. Ban was absolutely wasted.

"Teach me, Master," Ban exclaimed. Your shoulders started shaking.

"Do something about this guy," Hawk shrieked. "Y/N help me!" You were 

"Ban, don’t overdo it," Diane said.

You turned to look at her, cackling. "He’s already wasted! We're too late!"

"Y/N," Ban slurred, staggering over to you. He stumbled a few times until he finally rested his forehead on your shoulder, breathing heavily. You snickered.

"Y/N, have some beer," he yelled, forehead still resting on your shoulder. "Come on, it’s good!"

"Why? So I can end up like you?" You laughed, knocking the back of his head.

"It’s funnnn," Ban slurred. He looked up at you and smirked, his face flushed. "Unless you’re too scared~"

You felt your eye twitch at that. You scoffed and crossed your arms. "I’m not gonna drink, thank you very much. In case you’ve forgotten, we have to share a room and I would like to be sober while having to deal with you and your drunk ass."

"Nehhh. You’re no fun," Ban slurred. He grabbed your wrist and twirled you around while slightly staggering, causing you to laugh at him.

"Father! Look at the sky," Sennett exclaimed, pointing up at the sky.

You and Ban looked up to see shooting stars flying across the sky. Your eyes widened as you took in the beautiful sight. A smile slowly made its way onto your face.

"It’s just like a passage from one of Britannia’s old poems," Sennett’s father said in awe.

"'When shooting stars streak across the sky in the form of a cross, Britannia will face her darkest hour. This is a trial, preordained in the ancient times. And it will herald the beginning of a holy war between the guiding hand of light and the bloodline of the darkness.'"