#but also they day we adopt her unexpectedly

[yoohyeon]

7 years ago today, she entered our life 🥹💜

[the-fandom-is-now-my-life]

How the iudex sleeps

Unexpectedly enough Fontaine started wondering how the great judge is productive enough to do all his work and some bizarre ideas start pooping up until the iudex himself says his 'secrets'

Read also: otters sleep holding hands and with their babies on their bellies and I found that incredibly sweet

WC: 1,3K

Cw: gn reader, you both have a baby but it isn't specified if he is biologically related or adopted

‘The chief of justice is a busy person’ is a known fact amongst the citizens of Fontaine, who see him working through many cases plus uncountable quantities of paperwork. That led to a question for some people ‘how does he get enough energy for the day’ at first the common guess was coffee but they were told off by an angry melusine.

“Huff! As if monsieur Neuville would ever drink such things! Only weird humans can drink something that bitter”

That quickly shut down that possibility and led them back to the board of ideas. About that time reporters started to notice how many people seemed interested in maximizing their energy and being awake for longer, while they aren't life changing or particularly interesting sections, some weeks are remarkably unremarkable and anything is better than nothing.

Now every week there would be a few merchants promoting tonics, pallets and pills that enhance energy, even when they would find ways to waltz around trying to mention the judge in their advertisements.

‘Lawfully energetic’

‘as fierce as a dragon’

‘enough to stand 100 trials’

Even if the last one was almost enough for the mermonia palace to get involved for using Neuvillette's name it was vague enough that it got off the hook.

Usually Furina’s crew would be able to rehearse two scenes before tea time but for some reason it was already 2 pm and they were still rehearsing the beginning of the play.

“ I'm sorry, Ms. Furina, I just can't connect two ideas together today” the female lead says as she grabs her head, sighing deeply. Furina touches her back and before she can ask about it someone shares a thought to the air.

“ Oh! Have you tried nilotpala lotus tea? It seems to stimulate the nervous system and clear up brain fog. Maybe the iudex uses that” the man who was supposed to be practicing the piano to match the scene says with a slight poison over his words.

“ Isn't brain fog rich coming from you?” Furina yaps at him “ your tempo was off the whole day” as she looks over his shoulder and rather than seeing a music sheet she finds the newest issue of steambird “what are you even reading? Focus on the piano! We have a show next week!”

She quickly grabs the paper and starts reading the small column with advertisements and tricks, huffing at the idea “stop reading those newspapers and keep rehearsing! The magic fix you are looking for is simply a good night sleeps, like the iudex you are stalking for an answer” she sighs loudly before looking at her crew.

“Is that all?”

“Simply a good night's sleep. What else were you expecting? An extract with 10 times more caffeine than a cup or liyue acupuncture?” She looks at her crew and finds some of them nodding and others seemingly disappointed “now, a break or can we start from the top?”

Unsurprising enough, very few people believed what she claimed, most likely wishing for a strange concoction that can make up for bad habits. Even then a few girls believed it to be rational enough of an answer, seemingly even one of them must have said furina knew his whole nighttime routine causing a hoard of reporters to crowd her door asking senseless questions.

‘Does he use sleep mists?’

‘What kind of fabric are his sheets?”

‘What does he eat before bed? Does he drink water?’

After being stalked everywhere from her home to the supermarket or the café she started dressing up in disguise to escape, luckily a few days after she noticed the quantity of reporters went down and only one came knocking on her door asking about the rescheduling of her play.

“ Oh, yes, we had to reschedule as there was an ‘important trial’ that had to be dealt with urgently. A representative of the palais mermonia apologized for the inconveniences but in the end the most important thing is justice!” furina says with her characteristic theatrical flare. Now looking at the reporter scribbling things on his notebook she adds a bit “the new date will be in two weeks, if someone presents the special meet and greet tickets with the old date they will still be valid”

As he finishes writing he goes off to write the article “thanks miss!”

Now standing on the doorway to the rehearsal room, Furina was expecting the usual sleepy greetings or the usual chitchatter or gossiping but, unusually enough, the whole room was silent and her whole crew was hunched over a spot, their backs facing her.

Clearing her throat she greets them first but they still don't react “ morning? Guys? Are you all okay?” she rounds them trying to get their attention until one of them catches sight of her.

“Director! Look! Monsieur Neuvillette told his secret to the newspapers!” He grabs the yellow paper and holds it to her face, a big bold font meeting her eyes.

CASE MELUSINE AND OTHER QUESTIONS WITH THE IUDEX: PAST CASES TO HIS GREATEST SECRET

‘Greatest secret?’ Furina thinks for a second ‘did he already publicly state to be the hydro dragon? Doesn't seem like it’ but she quickly smiles at her co actor “So? What is his secret?”

But all her crew look at her with a questioning glare “ what we have been wondering all this time? Who would have guessed our director was right!”

“What is that even supposed to mean?!”

Charlotte looks at the pages full questions she prepared for her so desired meeting, who knew that after so long wishing for it she would truly get a chance to interview the iudex, even if half the questions she prepared couldn't be answered for privacy or because the cases weren't closed she got enough material to fill a good pair of pages. Even then she couldn't lose this opportunity and started asking the ‘dumber’ or sillier questions

Looming over one particular line she wonders, would the judge consider it rude for her to ask that given he was giving her his important time but she simply swallows and asks

“How are you able to work through so much work?”

“My apologies?” Neuvillette furrows his brows and looks confused “I don't think I quite understand what you mean”

Charlotte breathes in deeply before elaborating “People have been wondering how you have enough energy to do all the work you are able to do”

Neuvillette stays silent for a second with his eyes closed

“It's known the iudex doesn't talk about his private life, so if you don't want to answer-”

“ It's not that” Neuvillette reassures her calmly “it wasn't a question I was expecting, that is all” he crosses his legs and details as Charlotte writes

But regardless of how many tries we have thrown to the ceiling we all were wrong, the way our judge is able to power through the day is simple actually, a comfortable bed and his beloved family. Even if he refused to expand on information about his family he did speak more about his routine.

“I'm unsure why people care so much suddenly but it's very simple, really, I always sleep with my lover in bed and keep our child on my chest” even as Charlotte choked on her own spit at a sudden juicy revelation neuvillette barely glanced over the rim of his goblet “we are also rather particular about bedding, but for now we settled on silk flower sheets made I'm liyue”

As he drinks water a small smile creeps up his lips, remembering that very morning vividly, his fingers firmly entangled with yours, almost as if he fears you would leave and meet a cold spot when he wakes up, even when you are practically hugging his side. Or your young baby peeking his head out of his father's sleeping shirt and feeling the soft beating of his heart with a pleased face.

Hm, he is sure that is why he always wakes up with enough energy to power through his duties .

Opening his eyes he finds Charlotte with small tears on her lashes and muttering ‘how sweet’.

“ So about your son…?”

“No”

“Understood”

[deliciousangelfestival]

Let Me Love You | 4 - B. Barnes

Character: college!Bucky x Female!Reader

Summary: On a mysterious, rainy night, Bucky witnesses a distressing encounter involving his crush.

Chapter 1 , Chapter 2 , Chapter 3 , Chapter 4 , Chapter 5 , Chapter 6 , Chapter 7 , Chapter 8.

Main Masterlist || support: Ko-fi

Thank you to everyone who has read this chapter. Please let me know what your thoughts are. I'd love to hear your feedback. Thank you once again.

The next day, you wake up feeling refreshed after a restful sleep. With no rush to get up early, you decide to treat yourself to a leisurely morning and join your female friend for coffee instead of preparing breakfast for Lloyd.

You're grateful for the separation between the business and law faculties, as it means you won't have to encounter Lloyd in the morning.

Taking advantage of the extra time, you also request a day off from your part-time job. It's been a while since you've had some 'Me Time', and you feel you deserve it. Despite the lingering ache in your heart, you know that time will eventually heal it.

Walking back to your apartment, you spot someone familiar - Bucky. His presence unexpectedly brings a glimmer of light into your otherwise gloomy day.

With a smile, you approach him."Hi Bucky," you greet him warmly. Bucky seems surprised by your sudden appearance but returns the greeting, "Hi... hiii Y/N."

Then you notice that he's holding a leash, and upon closer inspection, you realize it's attached to a cat. The cat seems oddly familiar, and a memory sparks in your mind.

"Isn't this the cat that we saved together?" you ask, a mixture of surprise and delight in your voice.

Bucky nods, his expression softening. "Yes. The shelter called me and asked if I wanted to adopt her or if they should place her in foster care."

The white cat edges closer to you and rubs her head against your leg, seeking affection.

Your heart flutters with warmth at the cat's gesture, and you can't resist bending down to stroke her head gently. "Aww, she's so cute. What's her name?"

Bucky hesitates for a moment before replying, "Alpine. You could visit her if you want." His words come out a bit awkwardly, and you detect a subtle hint of nervousness in his voice. It's as if he's trying to mask something beneath his casual tone.

You sense a slight shift in the air, a moment pregnant with unspoken meaning. Bucky seems to bite his tongue, a nervous tic that betrays his uncertainty. Is he inviting you to his place? You can't be sure, but his invitation lingers in the air, hanging between you.

Unsure of how to interpret Bucky's demeanor, you simply respond with a warm smile. "Sure, I'd love to. I used to have a cat."

Bucky's smile brightens at your acceptance, a wave of relief washing over his features. From that moment on, the two of you stroll together, lost in easy conversation, until the sun dips below the horizon. Neither of you notices the watchful eyes observing your every move from a distance.

You returned to your apartment after picking up dinner, following Bucky's recommendation of the Chinese food he'd previously given you. The flavors were delightful, and tonight, you planned to indulge in your favorite dramas while savoring the meal.

As you entered the apartment lobby, your heart sank at seeing someone you'd been avoiding - Lloyd.

He had been waiting for you since morning, expecting the usual routine of you bringing him breakfast. However, he woke up to find himself disappointed.

He check his phone for your messages.

Nothing.

He tried to call you.

Blocked. You block him.

He had even gone to the university, hoping to catch a glimpse of you, only to be further disheartened by your absence. But then, as luck would have it, he spotted you earlier, walking with Bucky. The sight of you laughing and chatting with another man ignited a fire of jealousy within him.

He decided to confront you and waited at your apartment building, though his attempts to gain access were futile due to the strict policy allowing only females to enter. So, he stood there for over an hour, consumed by his thoughts and emotions, waiting for you to return.

Lloyd confronted you, his tone tinged with accusation. "You choose that loser over me?"

You sighed inwardly, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude for the clarity that had come after your breakup with Lloyd. "The moment I found out you kissed her, it was enough for me to leave you. You have broken my trust."

Lloyd appeared taken aback, his surprise evident as he struggled to respond. It seemed he hadn't anticipated the conversation to take this turn.

Continuing, you asserted, "You think I would forgive you? I might, but that doesn't mean I want to get back together. Besides, we're still young."

Inserting a word that Lloyd's father had mentioned last summer, you added, "Perhaps you're happier with someone else."

Lloyd's demeanor shifted, his confidence faltering under the weight of your words. It was clear that convincing you to reconsider would not be as easy as he had hoped.

Fooling around with Nicky was fun for a moment, but he never had a thought to make it serious. Because of you, who always have been there for him.

You stated, "I don't want to be the last person to know that someone cheated on me." Memories flooded back when your mother screamed and threw every piece of furniture to the ground upon discovering your father's infidelity with his coworkers.

Your father apologized to you and left, leaving your mother with deep scars in her heart. Your parents are childhood sweethearts; they have spent almost half of their lives together. That's why history seemed to repeat itself when your mother found out about you and Lloyd.

She urged you to make the relationship work, especially considering Lloyd's status as a star athlete at school with a promising future in football. As the only child, you felt compelled to listen to her. However, you have since decided to chart your own path.

Living alone, working part-time, and earning your own money have shown you that you can thrive independently, without depending on Lloyd. The breakup has made you realize that you may have spoiled Lloyd too much, without receiving the same level of care in return.

You sometimes yearn to be spoiled and surprised, but Lloyd never seemed to reciprocate. His parents' disapproval of you further strained the relationship, especially after they learned of their son's offer to join the NFL. Additionally, Lloyd never respected your mother, despite her high hopes for him.

Now, every step you take seems to reveal more red flags, prompting you to choose a different path to avoid history from repeating itself.

Lloyd feels dejected, unable to believe that you would leave him. His ungratefulness for your kindness and patience becomes apparent, realizing that finding someone like you again will be difficult.

Lloyd still couldn't accept it. "Good. That means I avoided a crazy mother-in-law. Her insanity made our town famous."

You retorted sharply, "Don't mention my mother. This is about us!"

Lloyd fell silent, satisfied with the reaction he provoked.

"Do you want everyone to know that perfect Y/N has a psycho mother?" Lloyd continued, using the sensitive topic to threaten you.

You gasped, never expecting Lloyd to stoop so low.

"Why are you doing this?" you demanded, feeling a mixture of hurt and anger.

Lloyd explained, "Tomorrow there's a gala dinner that's inviting many people who sponsor the university and, most importantly, the football team. You are my plus one."

You scoffed at his words. "So you want me to maintain our image as high school sweethearts, right? What would the sponsors think if they found out one of their athletes is a cheater? Fine, I'll go. I don't want you to blame me if your future goes up in flames."

With a dismissive "Good," Lloyd turned and left you standing there, tears welling up in your eyes.

As you watched his retreating figure, you couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. His back, which had once been a source of comfort during difficult times, now served as a painful reminder of how much he had changed.

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Author Note:

Hey friends,

If you've been enjoying the content, I've set up a Ko-fi account. Your support through tips would mean the world and help me keep creating. Only if you feel like it!

Here's the link: Ko-fi

Thanks a bunch for being fabulous followers!

[gardenofnoah]

middle aged touya my beloved 🫶🏼 (cw: drinking)

in his 40s, Touya is relatively tame. he spends most of his time working on his bike in the dingy little garage across the street from his place. he doesn’t need to work anymore (finally benefitting from nepotism, he thinks with a snort), but he finds himself helping out the elderly couple that live next to him from time to time, usually with an uneven shelf or a leaky faucet. they don’t ask him about his scars and the wife sends him back home with some sort of bread or sweet dessert every time, with the intention of fattening him up, since he won’t do it himself—which he finds ironic because he eats more and with a consistency that he hasn’t ever until now. 

he establishes a routine without meaning to, and at the end of every day he finds himself looking forward to going home—also for the first time in his life—because when he opens the door he’s nearly taken off his feet by the 93(.7, says the vet) pound monstrosity that he cohabitates with.��

he found himself walking through the kennels of the local animal shelter a few years ago, after several of his mother’s gentle nudges to find himself a companion. after making it explicitly clear that she was barking up the wrong tree for grandkids, she just rolled her eyes, shaking her head. 

“I think it would be nice for you to have something to take care of,” she told him, expression only a little worried—but mostly just fond. 

so that’s how he ended up in front of the last kennel in the pound, lowered to a crouch and speaking softly to the huddled, shivering mass at the far corner of it. even as crouched in on himself as he was, touya could see the pale scars that littered his otherwise dark brown coat. he felt the phantom ache on his own skin.

“he’s been here a while,” a worker muttered from behind him, “not sure how much longer they’ll want to keep him here.”

touya turned his head to regard the voice, raising an eyebrow. “what d’you mean?”

“he’s on the euthanasia list. we’ve tried to keep him off of it for as long as we can—but he’s aggressive and there haven’t been any interested adopters. time’s running out for him, unfortunately.”

the reality of it turned in his stomach something familiar and wholly unwelcome. he was overcome with a feeling of sympathetic kinship—it was just like the world he knew to chew up and spit out everything it could. 

he decided he’d try to stop that cycle where he could. 

“I’ll take him.”

“get off of me, you fuckin’ heifer” Touya laughs, pushing the dog back in a way that has it bounding back toward him, eager to play despite his age. neither one are particularly gentle, but there’s an underlying respect that comes with time and patience to keep the rough housing playful. touya hasn’t named the thing (because despite all of the ways he has changed, he’s still a bit of an ass), but any time Fuyumi brings his nieces over to visit, they stuff him into frilly princess costumes and call him whatever variation of “Princess Spotticus Snuffalopagus” they come up with that day—he figures that’s enough. 

he’s home to change and then he’s out the door again—because another first for him has happened unexpectedly: he’s found himself a few friends, and they have a standing Friday night meet up down at the bar across from the bike garage. none of them are much for talking, which suits Touya just fine. he strides up to the bar and takes his regular stool, nodding the familiar faces to the left of him and ordering his usual dark beer. it’s something he looks forward to now—the quiet comradery, the absence of the need to look over his shoulder. 

and right now, he is pointedly not doing that, because he thinks that if he just ignores the tap on his shoulder, it might just stop. 

it doesn’t.

“look, you little fuckin’ runt—” he snarls, turning to the source of the irritation—

“will you hold my drink?”

the interruption stops him dead in his tracks, long enough to blink back the shock at having been truly and willfully ignored to get a good look at you. 

at least 10 years his junior, clad in a pair of high-waisted jeans and a black tank top that leave just enough to the imagination to peak his interest. he realizes he’s staring, and his eyes snap to yours to find a knowing little smirk on your face.

“and why the fuck would i do that?”

“only for a minute,” you roll your eyes, like you’re the one that’s inconvenienced by this, “i just have to go to the bathroom.”  

he sighs, clipped and full of irritation, but holds a hand out to you regardless. you give him a smile that he immediately has to turn away from, huffing out a little “hurry up” as you turn toward the bathrooms. there’s no one around but him and his friends, but he finds himself curling your drink into his chest anyway, hunching over it like something nefarious might drop into it from above. 

it’s only a moment before you return, and much to his chagrin, you hop up onto the stool next to him and do well to make yourself at home, turning to hit him with another lopsided grin. he shoves your drink back in your hand a little too roughly—you pay it no mind, thanking him for watching it. 

“you just give your drink to any old stranger you find?”

you laugh a little, tipping your drink back to take a sip. he watches the tip of your tongue swipe a stray drop from your lip and he knows he should look away. 

he doesn’t.

“not usually.”

“that’s quite the fuckin’ gamble,” he gruffs, taking a sip of his own. 

“maybe,” you say, like you know something he doesn’t. he doesn’t like it. 

“don’t you have friends to get back to?”

“mm, yeah—i suppose i do,” you set your drink down and reach your arms up in a stretch—he has to look away then, because your chest strains against your tank top and he’s suddenly worried for his old heart—“what’s your name?”

he studies you then—eyes you with overt suspicion and you let him, smiling sweetly at him in a way that makes him nervous. he tuts at you, looking away to hide the flush that he feels creep up the side of his neck. 

“touya,” he grits out.

you repeat it, trying it out on your tongue, and he nearly comes out of his skin. you hop down from the stool, far too close to him—he doesn’t know why he wants to lean into your proximity.

“see you next time then, touya.”

he feels you well after you’ve gone. when the air stops vibrating, he lets out a sharp exhale, dropping his forehead to his hands on the bar top in front of him. the man next to him barks out a laugh, clapping him on the shoulder in some show of knowing sympathy. 

he’s too old for this shit. 

[moonxytcn]

We adopt a dog with billie 🥺

adopting a dog

Billie Eilish x fem!reader

summary – you and Billie decide to take the next step in your relationship and adopt a dog

warnings – pure cuteness

a/n – thanks for the request anon <3 Just so you know, Luz is light in Portuguese

English is not my first language so there may be some errors.

This gif isn't mine, I found it on Pinterest 

–––

Billie and you had been together for two years. Your relationship had started unexpectedly but quickly turned into something deep and meaningful. Between tours and recordings, Billie always found time for the two of you, whether through long conversations into the night or quick getaways to peaceful places.

Billie's apartment in Los Angeles was your sanctuary. One night, while watching a movie on the couch, Billie turned to you with a mischievous smile.

"Hey, I was thinking... how about we adopt a dog?" She said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

You were surprised but also excited about the idea. "Really? Do you think we're ready for that?"

Billie held your hand, intertwining her fingers with yours. "I think so. Let's take a step forward, build something together. And besides, I've always wanted a dog. And you?"

You smiled, feeling a wave of happiness and love. "I’d love that. Let's do it."

(...)

The next day, the two of you went to a local animal shelter. There were so many adorable dogs, all waiting for a home. Billie looked like a kid in a candy store, examining each puppy with a huge smile on her face.

After an hour of searching, a light brown puppy with curious eyes caught both of your attention. He was a mix of breeds but seemed to be the perfect combination of energy and sweetness.

"This is the one." Billie said, kneeling down and petting the little puppy. "What do you think?"

You knelt down beside her, and the puppy immediately came to sniff your hand, wagging his tail frantically. "I think he chose us." You replied, laughing.

You completed the paperwork and finally brought the new family member home. On the way, you discussed names. After several funny suggestions, you decided on "Luz."

"Luz." Billie said, testing the name. "It suits him. He's going to light up our lives."

(...)

The first days with Luz were a mix of chaos and fun. He was full of energy, running around the apartment, chewing on slippers, and exploring every corner. Billie and you took turns teaching him basic commands, and he quickly became part of your routine.

One night, while Billie was at the studio, you were home with Luz, teaching him to sit. After several attempts, he finally got it. "Good boy!" You said, offering a treat.

When Billie arrived, you were exhausted but happy. She looked at Luz, lying at your feet, and smiled. "You're doing a great job." She said, hugging you from behind.

"We're doing a great job." You corrected, turning to kiss her.

(...)

As months passed, Luz brought even more joy and love to your relationship. Walks in the park, trips to the vet, and cozy nights on the couch became precious moments. Each day with Luz reinforced your commitment to each other and the happiness of building a life together.

One day, while walking in the park, Billie stopped and looked at you. "I love you." she said suddenly, with an intensity that made your heart race.

"I love you too." You replied, feeling warmth in your chest.

She held your hand and, with the other, petted Luz. "We're building something beautiful together. And I want to keep doing this with you, every day."

You smiled, holding her hand tighter. "Forever." You promised.

Billie smiled, and Luz, as if understanding the depth of the moment, barked happily, running around you both. It was the beginning of a new chapter, full of love, adventures, and, of course, the adorable Luz.

[jrob64]

A Love/Hate Relationship - a CS modern AU one-shot

I wrote this story because I was in need of fluff, humor and hurt/comfort after the painful experience of losing two dogs in less than a year. Zeke, who was in my story Sowing Seeds of Trust, died of cancer last June. Two months later, we adopted Winston, who was the main character in Pet for Rent. Somehow, he swallowed part of a brush (while he wasn't at home) which perforated his intestines and caused internal bleeding. He died May 23. Writing my favorite trope for my favorite couple is therapeutic for me as I deal with my heartbreak.

Many thanks to @kmomof4 and @hookedmom.

Summary: Killian Jones' neighbor, Emma Swan, has hated him since the first day they met. When she finds out he came down with the flu and attempts to nurse him back to health, he's more than a little confused.

Rating: T

Words: 2582

Also posted to ffn and Ao3

Story is under the cut

*********

Killian Jones buried his face in a pillow and pulled it up over his head in an attempt to stop the incessant pounding. After several painful moments, he realized the noise wasn’t in his head, but was coming from the front door of his apartment.

Groaning, he tossed back the covers and swung his legs over the side of the bed, sitting with his head in his hands for a short while. When he finally got to his feet, he swayed dizzily and stumbled into the door frame, leaning against it to try to regain his balance.

He eventually made his way across the living room, unlocked the deadbolt and threw the door open. “What?” he demanded loudly, regretting it immediately when a sharp pain shot behind his eyes. He squeezed them shut before even registering who was on the other side of the door.

“Jones, how many times do I have to tell you to…Wow! You look like hell.”

Killian cracked his eyes open enough to see his neighbor from across the hall, Emma Swan. Infuriating to the highest degree and just as beautiful, she was the last person he wanted to see while he was in his current state. The two of them had a love/hate relationship…minus the love.

They had gotten off on the wrong foot when he moved in a little over a year ago. Unaware that she was a police officer who worked the night shift, he woke her up shouting orders at the movers. Emma Swan was not a morning person, especially after working an eight hour shift on the streets of Boston, and she informed him of it in no uncertain terms.

After that day, every interaction between them was filled with tension and snarkiness. Killian wished they could go back to when they met and start over again, because he knew she was basing her hatred of him on that first impression. In all honesty, he was quite intrigued by the fierce blonde and would like to know if there was a sweet or funny side of her she kept hidden very deep inside. Very, very deep.

Now she was here, standing at his door, scrutinizing him like a bug squashed on the bottom of her shoe. “Hangover?” she smirked.

He sighed. “I have the flu, Swan. It’s been going around at the office and I wasn’t lucky enough to avoid it. Now, if you’re done yelling at me, is there something I can help you with? If not, I’d really like to go back to bed.”

She took a step forward and unexpectedly pressed her palm to his forehead, then both hands to his unshaven cheeks. “You’ve got a fever.”

“Usually accompanies the flu. Now if you’ll…”

“Do you have medicine?”

“No, I…”

“Have you eaten? Are you drinking plenty of fluids?”

“I haven’t…”

“How long have you had it? Have you seen a doctor?”

Killian rested his pounding head against the door. “Must you use your interrogation techniques on me? I haven’t committed a crime, you know.”

“I’m trying to help,” she said, clearly offended.

“I could use less help and more sleep,” he grumbled.

“Yes, good,” she said, pushing past him into his apartment. “Go back to bed and I’ll get you something to drink. Do you want water, juice or…”

“More questions, Swan? Why can’t you just leave me alone?”

“All you have to drink is water, Dr. Pepper Zero and beer?” she asked, peering into his refrigerator. Closing it, she straightened up and began opening cupboards. “Do you have tea bags? British people like to drink tea, don’t they?”

He knew it would hurt his head to roll his eyes, so he simply threw up his hands and trudged off to his bedroom. Behind him, he could hear Emma celebrating the fact that she’d located the tea bags.

He had just gotten back to sleep, when he was shaken awake. “What now?” he growled, flopping onto his back.

“I made some tea and found Advil in your medicine cabinet. You need to drink something and get these pills in you.”

He raised his head and blinked up at her blearily. “You went through my medicine cabinet?”

“Yeah. Did you know condoms have an expiration date? The ones you have in there expired almost two years ago. Better not use them, because they’re likely to break.”

“Ugh,” he groaned, letting his head drop back down on his pillow. “Please just let me die.”

“You aren’t gonna die from the flu, Jones.”

“I meant from embarrassment,” he muttered under his breath.

“Sit up,” she commanded, sliding her arm under his pillow and pushing until he did as he was told.

First, she handed him a bottle of water. After glaring at her for several seconds, he finally took it, then swiped the two pills she held in her other palm. He popped them into his mouth and downed them with the water.

“Happy now?” he asked.

“Deliriously,” she quipped. “Now drink your tea.”

He accepted the mug she offered him and held it to his lips. Cautiously taking a sip, he grimaced and spit it back into the cup. “Did you heat the water at all? It’s barely warm! And how bloody much sugar did you put in it?”

“Well, I didn’t want you to burn your mouth,” she explained haughtily. “And I put in the same amount of sugar as I put in my coffee. Four spoonfuls.”

“Four?” he questioned. “Are you trying to kill me, or just give me diabetes?”

“You’re not a very good patient, Jones. You could at least be grateful that I’m helping you.”

“If you recall, I didn’t ask for your help.”

She ignored him, fluffing his pillow and pushing at his chest to get him to lay back down. “I found a can of chicken noodle soup in your cupboard. I’m going to heat it up.”

“Don’t add any sugar to it,” he groused, as she walked out of the bedroom, taking the tepid cup of tea with her.

“I heard that,” she threw over her shoulder.

“Of course she heard that, but didn’t hear when I told her to leave me alone,” he mumbled into his pillow. He tossed and turned, knowing that if he went to sleep, the maddening woman would just wake him up again.

Sure enough, she was back at his bedside within ten minutes, carefully carrying a plate containing a steaming bowl of soup and a small stack of saltine crackers. He sat up before she could order him to, and took the plate from her.

“You didn’t add anything to this, did you?” he asked.

“Nope, I just heated it up,” she assured him.

He dipped the spoon into the soup, blew on it and put it in his mouth, then promptly choked and sputtered. “Bloody hell, Swan! Didn’t you add any water to this?”

“Why would I add water?” she asked, a confused frown forming on her face.

“Because Campbell’s soup is condensed. It’s too salty this way. Adding extra water dilutes it enough that it tastes like soup is supposed to taste, rather than tasting like…like the ocean. Haven’t you ever made soup from a can before?”

“Sure,” she said, crossing her arms across her chest petulantly. “I make Progresso soup all the time, but I never add water to it.”

“Progresso soup isn’t condensed. This is.” He took the stack of crackers, then thrust the plate back towards her. “I’ll just eat these, thanks very much. Now that you’ve tended to me, you can leave me in peace.”

“Are you sure you’re gonna be okay?” she asked.

Was that concern he saw on her face? Surely not. Emma Swan would never be concerned about him. It would be more realistic if she were to try to poison him. Perhaps he should have been more careful eating and drinking what she gave him.

Shaking his head slightly to try to clear those thoughts, he said gruffly, “Yes, I’m sure. It’s not like you really helped anyway.”

This time, he thought he saw a flash of hurt cross her face, before she turned and left the room. Soon he heard the front door close.

He couldn’t have really seen Emma Swan look concerned and hurt, could he? Great. Now he was going to have to add hallucinations to his list of symptoms.

He ate the crackers, then lay down and turned onto his side, tugging the blanket up around his shoulders. He was achy and feverish, but it was the guilt over how he treated his apparently well-meaning neighbor that kept him from falling asleep.

*********

Three days later, after his fever had been broken for twenty-four hours, Killian went back to work. Upon returning home at the end of the day and getting his keys out to unlock his apartment, the door across the hall opened and Emma stepped out.

“Oh, hey Jones. Looks like you recovered, no thanks to me.”

Killian rubbed his finger behind his ear. “I owe you an apology, Swan. I was rude and should have never said what I did.”

She shrugged nonchalantly. “It’s no big deal. I guess I’ll never be a Florence Nightingale.” Turning on her heel, she muttered, “See ya around.”

“Swan…Emma, wait,” he called out, hurrying after her.

She turned around. “What?” she huffed.

“I, uh, I truly am sorry. It was very kind of you to try to help me, but…”

“But what?”

“But why did you do that? I mean, given the fact you hate me…”

“I don’t hate you,” she interrupted.

“Really? You could have fooled me.”

Emma stuck her hands in the back pockets of her jeans and looked down at the floor for several long moments. When she finally looked up, he was shocked to see the vulnerability on her face.

“Look… I’m not good with…people,” she said softly. “And I’m also not good at admitting when I’m wrong.”

She paused and he waited patiently, wondering where she was going with this.

“None of the people I know would be concerned enough to check on me if I called in sick to work. You’ve lived here long enough for me to realize that…that you don’t seem to have anyone like that, either. I never see anyone coming or going on a regular basis - besides the pizza delivery guy, but I don’t think he counts.”

Killian chuckled dryly. “You’re very observant, Swan.” He paused for a moment, debating whether he should open up to her as she was to him. “And you’re also correct,” he added finally. “I moved here from England when I was transferred for my job, and I don’t have any close friends yet.”

She nodded. “I figured it was something like that. The day you moved in, I was…well, to put it bluntly, I was a bitch. And, as I said, I’m not good at apologizing, so I just let things go on being…uncomfortable. When I saw that you were sick the other day, I thought it was my chance to make things better between us, but I screwed that up, too. I just…I guess I wanted to let you know that you didn’t have to be alone while you were suffering - that there was someone who cared. I…I’m sorry I made things worse.”

“You didn’t make things worse,” he assured her. “I appreciate the effort. Actually, if you think about it, it was really quite comical.”

She scoffed. “Yeah, I guess so.”

“And they do say laughter is the best medicine, so your failed attempts at helping are probably what cured me so quickly.”

Seeing the grin on his face, the corners of her own mouth turned up a bit. “You’re an idiot, Jones.”

He took a step closer. “How about if we start over, Emma? It would be nice to have a friend living across the hall.”

She eyed him, chewing her lip in contemplation. Then she held her hand out to him. “Hi, I’m Emma Swan. Welcome to the neighborhood.”

He reached forward to give her hand a firm shake. “Killian Jones. Pleasure to meet you, Miss Swan.”

She smiled and he was amazed at how it transformed her already lovely face. They stood awkwardly for several moments, until Killian said, “Well, I should let you go. Were you on your way to work?”

“Oh, uh, no. I was just going to get something to eat.”

He rubbed his hand along his jaw, dropping his eyes as he asked, “Would you, um…would you like some company?” Looking back up, he saw her eyes widen and hurried to add, “Just as a friend. As you well know, I don’t have much to eat in my apartment.”

She snorted out a laugh. “You still have more than I do at my place.” Turning away from him once again, she said, “If you’re sure, you’re welcome to join me. I was just gonna go to the diner around the corner. Tonight’s special is grilled cheese and onion rings.”

“Ah, greasy diner food,” he said, beginning to follow her. “You do know if you keep eating that stuff, your arteries are going to be filled with sludge.”

She chose to ignore him as she started down the stairs. “They have the best hot chocolate, too.”

“How much sugar do you add to it?” he grinned.

She glared at him over her shoulder. “No sugar, just cinnamon.”

“Cinnamon in hot chocolate? Sounds…interesting.”

She stopped on the landing and turned to look at him. “If you’re gonna make fun of my preferences for food and drink, you’re uninvited.”

Holding his hands up in mock surrender, he said, “I meant no offense, Swan. Perhaps I’ll even give your…unique concoction a try.”

That meal led to another, and many more. Soon they added regular coffee dates. Gradually, at Killian’s urging, Emma tried and eventually acquired a taste for black coffee, no sugar. Even more gradually, at Emma’s urging, Killian acquired a taste for greasy diner food.

Six weeks after Emma’s attempt to nurse Killian back to health, they went on their first official date. Killian was very happy to discover that Emma Swan did indeed have both a sweet and funny side. They realized they had many things in common, as they talked during their dinner at one of Boston’s most renowned restaurants, then walked along the waterfront.

At the conclusion of the date, they shared a kiss outside her apartment door, which opened both of their eyes to the fact that there was a significant spark of attraction between them. As they continued to date, the spark ignited into a blazing flame. (They made sure to replace the expired condoms in Killian’s medicine cabinet, once it was obvious they were going to put them to use.)

They became each other’s ‘person’ - someone to laugh with, cry with, share everything with, and nurse back to health when the need arose. By the following winter, when the flu made its way through Killian’s office once again, he had his own live-in nurse, whose skills were much improved from the previous year.

By that time, they still had a love/hate relationship…but now, it was minus the hate.

*********

A couple of fun notes:

-Colin was drinking a Dr. Pepper Zero during the Meet & Greet I went to at GalaxyCon in Columbus last year.

-At another con several years ago, Jen admitted she never drank black coffee until Colin got her hooked on it. (No pun intended!)

*********

Thank you for reading.

Tagging:

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@pawshapedheart @vampcoffeegyrl23 @tiganasummertree @bluewildcatfanatic @eleveneitherway @elfiola @kday426

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[inevitably-johnlocked]

Hi there! Do you know of any fics with john and sherlock raising rosie that take place when she's a bit older, like in the 10-20 years old range?

Hi Lovely!

Oh gosh, good question... If I have any they'll be on my Parentlock lists:

Parentlock

Parentlock Pt. 2

Parentlock Pt. 3

Parentlock Pt. 4A (MFLs 0-25K w.)

Parentlock Pt. 4B (MFLs 25K+ w.)

Parentlock Pt. 4C (WIP MFLs)

Adoption

But here's what came up with a quick tag search on my offline lists. If you guys have some to add, please do list them for us!

OLDER ROSIE FICS

Evermore by SosoHolmesWatson (G, 2,068 w., 1 Ch. || Post-S4, 5-Year-Old Rosie, Love Confessions, Song Fic, Parentlock, Oblivious John, Pining Sherlock, First Kiss, Love Confessions, Fluff, Friends to Lovers, Disney Songs, Beauty and the Beast) – For the past years, John and Sherlock have lived at Baker Street again, raising Rosie together--as friends and nothing more. Ever since the little girl has watched her first Disney movie, she is obsessed with princesses. When John comes home one day, he finds his friend and his daughter in the middle of a reenactment of her current favourite. Part 1 of Made of Music

Made of Music Series by SosoHolmesWatson (T, 6,464+ w. across 2 works || Series WiP || Post S4, Parentlock with Rosie, First Kiss, Mutual Pining, Friends to Lovers, Cuddling, Love Confessions, Angst with Happy Ending) – For the past years, John and Sherlock have lived at Baker Street again, raising Rosie together--as friends and nothing more. Ever since the little girl has watched her first Disney movie, she is obsessed with princesses. When John comes home one day, he finds his friend and his daughter in the middle of a reenactment of her current favourite.

A Quiet Life by DiscordantWords (M, 25,176 w., 6 Ch. || Post S4, Retirement, POV Sherlock, Awkwardness, Established Relationship, Family Dynamics, Minor Character Death, Questionable Parenting Choices, Non-Linear Narrative, 20 Year Old Rosie, Meddling Mycroft, Pining Sherlock, First Kiss, Love Confessions, Angst, Sherlock Whump) – There had been three days of silence and a funeral. Sherlock had the terrible feeling that whatever happened next would depend, entirely, on him.

How To Unfold a Heart by elwinglyre (E, 25,477 w., 7 Ch. || Post S4 Fix It, BAMF John, Mentioned Eurus, POV First Person Sherlock, Case Fic, Fluff, Slow Burn, Topping from the Bottom, 3 Yr Old Rosie, Introspection, Sexual Fantasies, John Worship, Ogling, Hand Holding, Kidnapping, Domesticity, Sherlock Whump, First Kiss/Time, Doctor John, Caring John, Soft Sherlock, Sensuality, Touching, Crying, Love Confessions, Anxious Sherlock, Rimming, Toplock, Fingering, Bossy Bottom John) – To Sherlock’s dismay, John’s return to Baker Street with Rosie is only temporary. Sherlock’s daily visits to Regent Park with John and Rosie illuminate his lost childhood memories and missed opportunities. But with each trip to the park, Sherlock also feels a growing sense of hope. That is until the past horrors return unexpectedly in a cryptic note folded in the shape of a heart. To decipher the message, Sherlock must uncover the nature of the hearts around him, including his own.

Chaperones by MissDavis (T, 34,114 w., 7 Ch. || 11 Years Post-S4, Fake Relationship, Parentlock, Disney World, Bed / Room Sharing, Friends to Lovers, Fluff, First Kiss, Obsessive Sherlock, Insecure John) – Right. Of course. Everyone assumed they were a couple and no one would question it. John put his elbows up on the table so he could rest his head in his hands. "You want to pretend to be a couple so we can chaperone a trip to Disney World with Rosie's class and you won't have to share a room with a stranger?" "Exactly." Sherlock beamed at him. "Don't worry about the cost. The Birmingham case last month paid more than enough to cover expenses for all three of us."

MARKED FOR LATER

About Being Gay by A_Candle_For_Sherlock (G, 1,088 w., 1 Ch. || Post S4, Coming Out, Friends to Lovers, Idiots in Love, First Kiss, Romantic Fluff, Older Rosie) – Rosie looks up from Sherlock’s picture book about poisonous plants, gives Sherlock a look and asks, 'Are you gay, Sherlock?' and Sherlock, without missing a beat, just says 'Yes,' and continues drinking his tea, and Rosie says 'Ah,' and goes back to her plant book, and John nearly doubles over in the corner.

Are You Gay? by orphan_account (G, 2,299, 2 Ch. || Parentlock with Rosie, Older Rosie, Fluff) – Some boys at school called Rosie "Gay." She doesn't exactly know what that means, but maybe her dad does?

Hope is sweet by Lock_John_Silver (T, 2,977 w., 1 Ch. || Post S4, Parentlock with Rosie, Valentine’s Day, Developing Relationship, Pet Names, Friends to Lovers, First Kiss, Classical Music, Idiots in Love, Endearments, POV Sherlock) - Sherlock wants to be more than John’s best friend. Has wanted it for ages, truth be told. So, when Molly comes up with an idea, that to some extent involves three year old Rosie, Sherlock doesn’t hesitate.

"Daddy, who do you like?" by OnlyForward (G, 3,441 w., 1 Ch. || Parentlock / 6 Year-Old Rosie Fic) – Rosie is in the phase where she constantly asks questions. This leads to questions like "Who do you like" and develops, eventually, to "Why don’t you kiss Sherlock?"

If Equal Affection Cannot Be by blueink3 (E, 31,156 w., 3 Ch. || Post S4, Family, Retirement, Grown Up Rosie, Angst, Reunion, Loneliness, Sussex, Fluff, Sexy Times, Happy Ending) – Sherlock fled London a couple of years after John left him in hospital with nothing but an old walking stick and a half-hearted goodbye. Rosie grew up thinking that Sherlock died when he committed suicide in front of her father by jumping from Barts' roof. So it's somewhat awkward when they run into each other in a Sussex general store between the loaves of bread and the Mars bars...

Consulting for Christmas by ohlooktheresabee (G, 40,153 w., 6 Ch. || Far Future Post S4 / Older Rosie, Thriller, Case Fic, Pre-Relationship, Christmas, Paris, POV Alternating, Fluff, Light Angst, Mutual Pining, BAMF John, BAMF Sherlock, Friends to Lovers, Idiots in Love, Jealousy, Misunderstandings, Mistletoe, Ice Skating, Heist, Awkward Romance, Developing Relationship, For a Case, Background Mystrade, Angst with Happy Ending) – The Louvre Museum in Paris is planning to host the celebrated Winter Fabergé Egg for its winter exhibition - quite the feat as it has not been on public display since 2002. However there is a snag: whispers of a world-renowned master-thief with his eyes set on the valuable prize. The curator has asked the famous Sherlock Holmes to consult on security, but the detective needs a lot of convincing: he is after all a bit busy with trying to woo a certain clueless ex-army doctor… At the same time, John is attempting to balance work, missing Rosie who is off on her gap year, a volunteer gig at a local London orphanage, and seething jealousy upon the arrival of an apparent old friend of Sherlock’s. Attempting to foil the heist of the century while remaining friendly and objective might just be a step too far... A Christmas crime caper packed full of misdirection, miscommunication and mistletoe, set against the romantic backdrop of London and Paris in the winter. Thrown into all this, will our two idiots finally manage to see what has been right in front of them all along?

Here We Go Again by disfictional (E, 46,687 w., 10 Ch. || Mama Mia-Inspired Fusion || Post-S4, Older Rosie, Alternating POV, Reunion, Retirement, Case Fic, Mutual Pining, Coming Out, Parentlock, Weddings, Fluff and Angst) – Ransacking some old trunks, Rosie Watson finds her father's old journal filled with remnants of a blog he used to keep about his association with Sherlock Holmes. In an attempt to meet the man who had a profound impact on her early years, Rosie invites the long-estranged detective to her wedding under false pretenses.

Know You All Over Again by PoppyAlexander (M, 53,028 w., 21 Ch. || Post-S3 Canon Divergence, Post-Break Up, Angst with Happy Ending, Therapy, Mary is Moriarty, Ex Sex, Parentlock) – After five good years, one difficult one, and six months that were hell, John and Sherlock live apart but still share custody of seven-year-old Rosie. With therapy, supportive friends, and those inevitable dance recitals and open school days forcing them into each other's paths again and again, anger and bitterness fade, leaving space for a new view of each other across the divide.

[remembrancer-of-heresy]

The Emperor's Children and Fulgrim's Daughter. Before and After the Heresy* (Headcanons)

*Because this is Slaanesh, be careful. There's a lot of darkness here

Author's Note: was inspired by this anon's idea

If we talk about how Fulgrim got a daughter, I can assume that one of his wives (his favorite) unexpectedly became pregnant. Whether Fulgrim knew about it or not, but in any case, the outcome is the same. The Emperor takes her to study. He is afraid to destroy her because she is part of the warp and it is unknown what kind of reaction will follow.

In the end, he comes to the conclusion that she does not pose a threat. And decides to return her to his son. Perhaps he kept her in stasis for many years and controlled her age. But in the end, Fulgrim is reunited with his daughter, who, consider, did not have time to see the world (and not with a 150-year-old independent and self-sufficient girl). This is just one of the scenarios, but it is from this I want to analyze.

Fulgrim: Whatever one may say, the story of the Primarch with his own daughter is extremely sad. Fulgrim suppressed the love for his adoptive parents and wives, because he considered it a weakness. And then, decades later, he learns that he has a daughter. The Emperor was wise to take her. So, is it not, that he returned her, a manifestation of a higher plan? Fulgrim tries to provide her with the best, to show her all the wonders of the Galaxy. But as a stranger. And in the most vulnerable moments, he always leaves, afraid that a little more and he will give in. Love for his father and brothers is boundless. But his own family... a daughter... that's different. That's a weakness.

A weakness that he gladly accepts after Laeran. His daughter thinks she's in a fairy tale. Finally, her father acknowledged her, opened up to her. But with each passing day, she is horrified by his strange behavior. How he is slowly becoming corrupted. The Primarch himself is becoming more and more obsessed with his daughter. At some points, he wants to cause her boundless pain. At some moments, thoughts of a... different nature appear in his head. Those for which he would be condemned. But the fall into Slaanesh clouds common sense and Fulgrim is sure that the love of father and daughter can reach a new level.

At some point, she escapes and he is not even surprised. After all, she is a half-primarch. And finally ascended, Fulgrim indulges in eternal pleasures in the realm of Slaanesh. While his servants and daemonettes scour all corners of the Galaxy, hoping to find the fugitive and present her to her father. Fulgrim is in no hurry to reunite with his prodigal daughter. The meeting will definitely take place. And then he will show her all the gifts of the Dark Prince.

Eidolon: Even before the Heresy, Eidolon behaved extremely arrogantly, even in front of the primarch. He would certainly admire Fulgrim's daughter, but in his look of boundless love there would still be more conceit and feigned importance. He would have thought that only he was worthy of seeing the girl and interacting with her in any way.

After Laeran, the man became even more brazen with the Primarch's daughter. However, he did not allow himself to cross the line for a long time. Not only because he did not have time to realize such a possibility. But also after Fulgrim cut off his head in a fit of rage. Nevertheless, after Terra, having created his own band, Eidolon intended at all costs to make Fulgrim's daughter his consort. He will receive recognition from the other Emperor's Children. Besides, no one else is worthy of her.

Julius Kaesoron: The first Space Marine with whom Fulgrim's daughter would truly have a wonderful relationship. Built not on hierarchy and her origin. But because the man enjoys discussing books, music, philosophy and other arts with her. He is inquisitive and kind. How can one resist such a thing? Julius sees Fulgrim's daughter as a small perfection that he cannot become, but must protect.

After Laeran... Fulgrim would hardly give his daughter to any of the Emperor's Children. But he will tell his beloved son, almost with tears in his eyes, that he wants him to fuck his daughter. The First Captain will only happily fulfill such a request. Having succumbed to the lust of Slaanesh, Julius sees no boundaries and is ready to receive pleasure and pain from anything. And the very thought of enjoying the girl's body, experiencing the sweet pain of her tears and feelings of betrayal only excites him even more.

Marius Vairosean: He was always Fulgrim's faithful dog. Like a true soldier, he carried out all the orders, wanting more than anything to get his attention. Therefore, for him, Fulgrim's daughter occupies an almost divine place. He tries with all his might to get her attention as a dog. But at the same time, his soldierly and menacing attitude does not go away. Partly, Fulgrim's daughter likes him, but on the other hand, she cannot get close to him.

After Laeran, Marius turns into not just a degenerate and a sadist, but a Noise Marine. A crazy lover of deadly music. Now he causes her only fear and disgust. His attitude towards her has not changed at all. But now, at every opportunity, Marius follows the girl like a terrible shadow as a protector from carnivorous glances. Without admitting that he enjoys her fear.

Lucius the Eternal: Quite an interesting situation. Before the siege of Laeran, Lucius was an ordinary legionary, not a captain. He had no opportunity to even approach the Primarch's daughter. Let alone talk. However, this did not stop him from looking at her from afar. He always wanted to become the best swordsman. But also to advance in his career. To earn honor, respect, adoration. Recognition from the Primarch himself. And Fulgrim's daughter was on this list.

When the Heresy began, he enjoyed her company to the fullest. And even though the girl was not enslaved by Slaanesh, everyone continued to love her. She did not oppose the newfound temptations of the Astartes (or simply could not). And she had to come to terms with the fact that when Lucius was not training with a sword, he sought her attention. He despised his brothers, but the girl was a special case.

After Terra, his attitude towards her did not change at all. He continues to seek out new pleasures that the Galaxy offers him. But he does not forget to search, hoping to find Fulgrim's daughter. His Primarch left his Legion. The girl too, but she was forgivable. And he was ready to forgive her. Just let her illuminate him with her half-primarch soul again. Perhaps someday she will even look at him not with contempt, but with lust.

Fabius Bile: Purely scientific interest. The Apothecary has already been honored to examine the primarch and at least slightly touch the Emperor's creation. And despite the fact that Fulgrim's daughter is theoretically weaker than the primarchs and even the space marines (while possessing eternal youth and phenomenal health), he is sure that her potential can be increased.

When the Heresy begins, various irrational and rather perverted thoughts also enter Bile's head. About causing pain, the desire to receive pleasure. However, not by conventional methods. Suddenly, mental psychology comes into play and now Bile begins to act not as a doctor. But rather as a mentor.

After Terra, he finally becomes her adoptive and named father (the most disgusting Slaanesh heresy). Oddly enough, the girl herself wanted it, trusting him more than Fulgrim (which is not surprising). He hides her from the Emperor's Children and introduces her to his "children". Meeting Fulgrim's clone was the strangest thing in her life btw.

[chrisevansleftpeck]

Kitty Games

Word Count: 1k

Spencer Reid x Reader

Content Warnings: None :)

“This one!” You pointed at a small brown kitten, curled up in a ball inside of a cage. “Oh, Spencer, please say yes, please say yes.” You’d finally managed to drag Spencer to the pound after a long argument about adopting an animal. It took five months for him to even agree on getting a cat, but four more months to decide on whether to adopt or rescue. Finally, an agreement had been made.

Spencer smiled down at the kitten’s mud-colored fur. He chuckled a little under his breath at the kitten’s meows at you as you offered your hand out in front of its cage. Still crouched at the kitty’s level, you turned your head towards Spencer. 

“I didn’t say a thing.” Though Spencer couldn’t hide his smile as he pretended to doubt the kitten’s cuteness.

“It’s a girl, Spence. But she’s a baby and doesn’t have a name yet.” You waved your hand at Spencer to crouch down next to you. He shook his head in protest but was forced down as you unexpectedly yanked at his hand. “See that?” You pointed at the information attached to the kitten’s cage. “No home, no prospective buyers. She’s all ours if we want her.” 

Spencer’s face softened as he looked at the kitty, watching her lick at her paws and purr. No doubt in his mind she was the one. Yet still… “I don’t know y/n. I don’t know if she’s the one.” 

Your mind whirred. You couldn’t not take this cat. What if someone else rescued her by the next time you visited the pound? “Baby, please. She’s perfect and I love her a lot. I really really want her.” 

“We can’t make a choice in one day. Let’s revisit this over the weekend, okay?” Spencer watched as his words broke your heart, but deep down he knew it’d be worth it. However, Spencer didn’t expect your sadness to turn into anger so quickly. 

You shot up and started towards the door. Spencer followed you out into the cold quickly, “I’m eating with Penelope, Em, and JJ in two hours anyways. I’ll ask one of them to pick me up from here.”

Spencer looked puzzled, you were upset with him. For real. “We- we came here together though.”

“Well I don’t feel like going home alone without a cat right now. But since you do, I think you’ll do just fine going home without me too.” You were making no sense at this point. You were in a post-pound funk after seeing so many sweet babies without a home or place to live.

Spencer reached for your hand in distress, but you just yanked it away. “Alright. But I’m not leaving until I see you get into a car.” 

“Fine.” You whispered.

“Fine.” Spencer bit back, really hoping this game would be worth it. 

___________________________________________________________

As soon as Spencer knew he was in the clear, he ran back inside the pound and wasted no time rescuing that kitten. He’d calculated that he’d probably have about four hours to get the cat and set everything up, so there was no time to waste. 

Straight from the pound with a brand new kitty, Spencer drove to Petco and picked up a pink fluffy dome-shaped cat bed, much bigger than the kitty, which he thought was funny. On his trip he also picked up an array of cat food and other necessities such as food and water bowls, litter, a litter box, scoopers, everything he’d need. 

That left him with two hours to set up the kitty’s toys and new purchases in the apartment. He spent every minute carefully, building the kitty’s perfect new scratching post, kitty palace of a bed, and filling a little cookie jar with tiny cat treats. All done, Spencer waited in the living room with his kitty in his lap, a big pink bow tied around her, so that he could see your reaction as soon as you walked in. 

You made it into the apartment around 9:40 and slid a to-go meal across the kitchen counter. It was a little something you’d picked up for Spencer. No matter how upset you were, you loved him and would always look after him.

“Hey, we missed you.” Spencer stood up from the couch, extending the wrapped kitty in his arms out to you. 

Your hands shot up to your mouth. “Oh my god. Spencer-” You dragged on as your eyes began to cloud. Spencer carefully laid her in your arms, unwrapping the pink bow around her. “Oh my god, I feel horrible, horrible, horrible.” You whispered as you pet your new kitty.

“I knew to pull off the surprise I’d have to make you sad, but I didn’t think you’d be mad.” He laughed, watching you place a little kiss on the kitten’s small head. Your heart melted as she purred into the kiss.

“Oh! And she has toys, oh my god. It’s so perfect,” You finally looked up at Spencer with a little tear running down your cheek, “I’m so sorry, baby.”

Spencer shook his head, just wrapping you and his baby kitten up into a big family hug. “Don’t be.” He placed a kiss on both you and the kitten. “What’s our baby’s name?”

“Hmmm.” You thought with a smile. “Muffin.”

“Ooh, I love Muffin.” Spencer replied, making you giggle. You watched as Spencer’s eyes studied your lips. “I love you. Thank you for everything.”

“I love you so much more. Thank you for the world, plus my kitty.” You placed a kiss on Spencer’s nose in return, then went back to stroking Muffin’s back. 

Spencer raised his hand to your face, “Our kitty.” He claimed with a smile.

“Our kitty.” You corrected yourself, pulling Spencer and your mutual furbaby into a tight, loving, thankful squeeze. The long day made sense now. Everything was worth that moment. Everything was worth little Muffin Reid.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

I’m starting a taglist, if you’d like to be added just comment!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

Taglist:

-  @goobysgoobers

[v3nusxsky]

hello!! it's me again 🫶 may I ask you to make a larissa x milf!r where rissa is a friend of reader's child and visits her house and she dominates reader unexpectedly? thank you 🫶

- v

Unexpectedly 18+

*Authors note~ oooo soo think you wanted milf r who gets dominanted by our darling Rissa so her we go*

Trigger warnings~ dom l sub r Rissa strap on fingering corruption kink heavy praise oral

Prompt~see ask^^^^

❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀❀

Your adoptive daughter, Dahlia had recently joined Nevermore Academy and wanted to visit home for the holidays. Obviously you were overjoyed to know she was coming home, you had such a special bond with her due to the nature she came to you in. The fact she wanted to bring her roommate to stay as well was truly something special.  You'd heard of the girl your daughter called Isa.

The first few days went swimmingly, your daughters friend was rather reserved and polite. You could see why your daughter raved about her, she's respectful and ever so thoughtful. Also stunningly beautiful. The moment Dahilla told you she was a shape shifter you were truly shocked, you'd heard about shape shifters having gorgeous features but seeing one in real life was something else. Knowing Isa was one of the older students meant that she was some years younger but nothing too drastic.

So the day you caught her wondering into your bedroom you decided to take advantage of the way she looked at you. The young blonde thought she was sly but truthfully you'd caught them since her arrival. "Isa darling?" You purred startling the girl. "Oh I'm so sorry Dahilla said that will she um I " the poor blonde looked like a deer caught in headlights. "Shhhh darling I know why you're here" you murmured stepping towards her which caused her to step back until she found the bed. "So pretty like this" you muttered, "you want me" you stated. You left no room for argument after all your already foreseen what would happen.

"I uh um you're a Lia's mother I um it's inappropriate" she mumbled flushing bright red. "Oh darling, it's not inappropriate and I want you too, so badly. I've seen it happen you know? How you respond to me, the whimpers and whines you make while you take mommys strap" you teased watching the younger woman bite her lip. "Go on baby, say it, moan for mommy" you murmured before kissing all over the expanse of her neck. "Oh fuck mommy please!" Larissa whined before realising what she had done.

You smirked at her embarrassment and reminded her that Dahlia had nipped out to see her other mother for the day and she wouldn't have to know. "Isa, I know you want me love" you purred and lent over to whisper in her ear, "and I want you pretty girl." The little whimper of recognition was truly driving you insane, you needed her but you knew you had to be sure. You could've attempted to see the future and the outcome but where was the fun in that?

"I um I have never um" she stuttered turning her head away from you. "Oh is mommys pretty girl untouched" you teased trying to hide the fact it made you want her more. "Can I be the first?" You murmured guiding her head to look at you and she nodded. "Words love" was all you offered only to be met with "please take me mommy I'll be good!"

That is how Larissa Weems found herself as naked as the day she was born with your head buried in between her thighs. You peppered her pale thighs with kisses and little nips loving how responsive the younger girl was. "Please" she whimpered squirming slightly. "Okay pretty girl mommy is gonna make you feel so good Angel" you murmured before taking an explanatory swipe of her slit. "Oh!" She whimpered falling back against the bed, only encouraging you to continue.

You eagerly lapped at her core, achieving some of the most beautiful sounds you ever heard. When you felt her cunt start to drip you decide to add a finger all while sucking on her clit to help her adjust to the intrusion. "Oh mommy feels so good don't stop" she mewled hesitantly rocking her hips to meet your mouth while your finger slowly worked it's way through her tight heat. "So beautiful" you murmured before kissing up her stomachs to play with her boobs. "Oh fuck me" she whined when your lips latched and onto her peer bud. "I oh god my stomach fills weird" she whimpered unsure if she wanted more or for you to stop.

"Oh sweet girl, you're so innocent aren't you. You wanna cum baby. Go on let go for mommy" you encourage while curling your fingers to stroke her G spot with every thrust. The cry she let out while drenching your finger was truly something magnificent. Brought your mouth to her soaked folds to lap up her cum. "Mommy!" She whined squirming as you cleaned up every last drop of cum. "Mommy more, please" she whimpered and lucky for her you knew just what to do.

"Sweet girl, do you really want to be mommys? I can make you mine forever love" you whispered before kissing her neck and allowing her to fill the bulge you'd been hiding all this time. "Oh fuck! Is that um a" she mumbled a blush covering her cheeks. "Oh now my darling Isa don't go all shy on mommy, yes it's mommys cock and she'd very much like to burry it deep inside that pretty pussy of yours. Own you. Make you mine and mine only. Watch you squirm trying to get it deeper inside your aching cunt."

"Please mommy I need you, I need it" she mewled you strip off your clothing, the girthy six inches purple strap standing to attention. Her eyes hungrily dancing over the length, "mommy won't fit too big" she whined, her beautiful sapphire irises holding nothing but lust and fear. "Then mommy will have to make it fit won't she" you purred smothering the faux cock in lube before lining it up with her dripping folds. "Mommys gonna push into your tight hole now okay? It may feel a little uncomfortable or hurt but I promise you it will feel good okay?"Larissa let out a cry as her virgin walls stretched out to accommodate the intrusion. "Shhh baby it's okay you're doing so well, taking me so well darling. Almost there. God your beautiful" you murmured hoping to ease her pain a little, "breathe my darling, it will help with the stinging."

"Oh mommy!" She mewled as the pain turned into pleasure. "See that's my good girl, feels good huh?" Your teasing tone combined with the bucking of her hips have you the answer. You were gentle at the start. But soon enough your thrusts became faster and harder, the blonde withering and moaning blow you. "Oh fuck me yes god more more please mommy I'm so god more" her moans driving you absolutely wild with the need. "Cum for me baby, cum with mommy, I know you're close" you whimpered into her ear. Your hand sneaking down to her clit.

To see the innocence drain from her eyes was truly something else, and knowing what you knew of the future, this wouldn't be a one time thing. Larissa would come back time and time again. So you made sure everything felt perfect for her first time. Slipping the dick from her tight walls, her hole gaping as her cum leaked onto your sheets. "So so good baby. You did amazingly for mommy" you reassured getting rid of the strap and coming to hold her. "So good, such a pretty girl."

After some snuggling and reassurance Larissa finally felt her legs were stable enough for her to return back to the guest room and shower, ensuring that Dahila would have no idea that you just stole her friend's innocent and fucked her absolutely senseless.

Word count~ 1352

[bleaksqueak]

cw pet death under the cut

Well, I guess I largely vanished for the past couple of days for some people. We unexpectedly lost two of our ratties, one of which was one I had a close bond with, so that sure knocked me out for a day. I've been taking care of one of our little old ladies, Sammy, and we expected she would leave us fairly soon, but we lost Willow and Abbie within just a couple of days of each other instead. Have some cute photos of baby abbie and willow since they were Very Loved and had happy lives. Baby Abbie! When we saw how tiny she was (stunted growth, runt) and her little broken tail we had to take her home with us... somehow, miraculously, she could still move the whole tail! It's a mystery how it broke in the first place, and no one knew when we got her. We never had it amputated since it wasn't causing her any distress, and it just over time came to look like a little pikachu tail to us. She was my little heart rat and was glued to me near constantly.

all growed up button:

"FOUL TARNISHED...." And baby Willow!!

So cute in her pot pie the incredibly sweet /sadcute photos of her mommy, Bonnie (still with us!) protecting her the day we adopted them. They were adopted together due to their previous owners having to move and not being able to keep them. Bonnie was convinced we were going to steal her baby, so she kept sitting on her like this:

Willow was curious and wanted to make friends faster than Bonnie wanted, but Bonnie warmed up and finally stopped guarding so heavily. Part of her warming up included her adopting me, so uh... rat mom? She treats me like a baby rat. Mom, I'm a full grown Rat, thank you. Willow was ***fascinated*** sitting and watching Resident Evil 4. She sat through the whole game and any time a loud noise would happen she'd ZOOP back into a sleeve...then poke back out, ears perked and whiskers going. She did the same thing last christmas when we opened presents, so RE4 gets called "CHRISTMAS 4" in our house. also to the other ratty keepers out there, don't worry, the little cage is only a nursery/hospital cage and playtime cage, they lived in a giant critter nation with lots of friends. Anyway, I'm a little sad still so I wanted to share some cute photos and celebrate them instead. We're probably going to be looking around at the local breeders to see if anyone has any baby girls ready for adoption.

[bellaxgiornata]

Falling For the Devil [Part fifty: "The Interview"]

Pairing: Matt Murdock x Fem!Reader

Summary: You’re struggling to finish writing an article at The Bulletin when your work day is unexpectedly interrupted.

Or

Those two men clearly aren't chauffeurs and they are definitely not taking you to an interview.

[Series of one-shots about Reader meeting, falling for, and dating Matt Murdock.]

Warnings: 18+ for this series; contains humor, fluff, romance, angst, smut (like...a lot of it later in the series), language, some violence

Word Count: 4.7k

a/n: This installment beings our descent into the Big Angst arc. Forewarning, there is no comfort in the next handful of installments. Not until you get to "The Aftermath" do you begin to see comfort which is Part fifty-eight. Just a head's up for those who can't handle no comfort without all of the installments posted. We also from now on begin to get occasional Matt POVs! You can find the entire list of installments for this series on tumblr here, and if you're enjoying it let me know!!

Running your hands through your hair, you stared blankly at your computer monitor. You had almost finished your article, though your word count was just a bit under what you needed it to be for an upcoming issue. Your mind felt like it was turning to mush the longer you stared at the document, willing more thoughts to come to you. With a loud, frustrated groan, you threw your face in your hands. A second later you heard the telltale sound of Katy’s computer chair wheeling back towards your cubicle.

“Struggling still?” she asked.

“Yes,” you whined into your hands. “I can’t think of two hundred more words to say about this upcoming event of which I personally don’t care about.”

“I hear that,” Katy sighed out. “Why don’t you just step away for a bit? No one else is here, Ellison won’t care. Go visit your man or something.”

“Can’t,” you said, sliding your hands down your face. “Court day today. His phone is off and I can’t exactly barge into the courtroom.”

“I mean you could,” Katy replied, shooting you a grin. “Bet he’d have some frustrations of his own to work out, if you know what I mean.”

You rolled your eyes, throwing yourself back into your chair. “Katy,” you groaned, “why is it always about sex with you?”

“Have you suddenly gone blind?” she shot back, ignoring the look you sent her at the comment. “Your man is smoking hot. Like sure, he sounds absolutely sweet and smart and wonderful and charming from everything else you’ve told me, but like, don’t tell me you’re not always wanting to bang him when he walks into a room. Because I will not believe you.”

"Okay, you're not entirely wrong," you conceded, "but there's vastly more to that man than sex, Katy."

"Of course there is," she cooed, suddenly adopting a teasing tone. "Because you love him. You want to marry him. You want to fuck his brains out and have an entire horde of fucking beautiful little babies with him."

You snorted out a laugh, shaking your head. "Something along those lines, I suppose," you said with a laugh. You abruptly shot her a stern look as her eyes went wide at your admission, pointing a firm finger at her chest. "But that is strictly between us, Katy. You hear me? I don't need to scare him away."

Katy exaggeratedly rolled her eyes back at you. "Oh please, that man is practically married to you already," she said. "Sending lunches to you, walking you home from the office. Asking you to move in on your terms . Buying you expensive flowers when you have a bad day. Taking long ass road trips to spend the holidays with your family."

Your brows furrowed as you glanced back at your computer monitor. "That…doesn't mean he's thinking about marriage," you said slowly. 

"Doesn't it?" Katy shot back, brows raised. 

"No, it just means–"

Your sentence was cut short when you heard your name called through the office. Both you and Katy exchanged a look before you hesitantly rose to your feet. Two large men in suits were standing by the main office door, one of them with a very noticeable scar along his forehead. Both of them had dark, short cropped hair and stern expressions. Your palms began to sweat at the sight of them, your hands balling into fists at your sides. Even under their dark suits you could see their muscles, and the possible shape of something far more dangerous and deadly. 

"That's me," you answered, trying hard to sound like you weren't quickly becoming nervous. "Can I help you?"

"We were asked to invite you for an interview," the man with the scar told you, a false polite smile flashing at you across the room. 

Your brows furrowed, your heart beginning to race. "Oh? I–I didn't have any interviews scheduled for today," you replied, voice shaking.

"No, but Mr. Backman would very much like to discuss some things with you," Scar Face continued. 

"Uh, well, now is not really the best time," you told them quickly, cold fear shooting through your body. You could feel Katy's eyes burning a hole into the side of your head as you spoke. "I have a deadline I'm trying to meet right now. But I could schedule something for later this week?"

The man beside Scar Face crossed his arms over his chest, the muscles in his arms becoming more prominent with the gesture. You swallowed hard in response, eyes drawn to his intimidating figure; they were obviously trying to scare you and it was very much working. Your fists curled tighter, nails beginning to bite into your skin.

"Well you see," Not Scar Face said slowly, holding your stare unblinkingly as he spoke, "Mr. Backman sent a car for you to come for an interview now. He doesn't exactly do rescheduling."

"You're uh, sure about that?" you asked weakly. 

"Very sure about that," Scar Face agreed. 

Licking your lips nervously, you tried not to externally show how much you were internally panicking. You didn't seem to have a way out of this. They were currently blocking your only exit, and judging by the strange way their suit coats were fitting them, you were certain there was a gun under at least Scar Face’s jacket. It was currently just you and Katy here at the office, too; no other witnesses or hope for any backup were around. And you doubted you could make a call to police, stall these men long enough for them to get here, and then manage to have any sort of excuse to get these men arrested. And if you somehow did manage that, you were certain more men would come for you. And they’d probably be a lot less pleasant and cordial than these two currently were. Not to mention, if you did the wrong thing here, you could be putting Katy in harm's way.

No, you were going to have to go with them, and if they didn't kill you, Matt certainly would after this. 

"Alright, well, do you mind if I just use the bathroom real quick before we go?" you asked carefully, nails biting further into your sweat-dampened palms. 

Not Scar Face was about to respond, his mouth opening as he managed the first syllable, but Katy popped up in her cubicle beside you and briefly startled the two men. Their attention immediately shifted to her short frame, both of them tensing as they took in the sight of her. You saw Scar Face’s hand inching towards the inside of his suit coat, but Katy’s eyes were only on you when she spoke. 

"You need a new tampon before you go?" she asked loudly, ignoring how the two men pulled faces at her question. Her eyes remained fixed on you as she threw out the question you'd both agreed on in the event one of you were ever in a dangerous situation. 

"Yes, actually,” you told her, shooting her a strained smile. “I could use another.”

“Just make it quick,” Scar Face snapped from across the room. “Mr. Backman doesn’t like to be kept waiting.”

Your attention focused back on the two men across the room as Katy bent down and rummaged through her purse for an actual tampon. Your hand was searching blindly along your desk for your phone as you held their gaze, trying to come across as inconspicuous as you could. 

“Of course,” you said, forcing the strained smile to remain on your face as your hand finally collided with it. “I’ll only be a few minutes,” you assured them as you slowly slipped the device into your pocket.

You turned, breath feeling like it was catching in your throat and stomach roiling uncomfortably with nerves. You focused on Katy, her eyes still locked only on you as she dramatically held up the tampon so the men across the office could see she was indeed handing you one.

“Here,” she said loudly, crossing the space towards you. As you accepted the tampon from her, she quickly whispered out of the corner of her mouth, “Call the cops when you leave?”

“Ah, thank you!” you said, nodding faintly.

She sent you a tense smile before you turned and tried to walk as casually as you could towards the women’s bathroom just in the hallway near your cubicle. You pushed the door open, fighting the tremor in your hands as you did, and continued all the way to a stall before locking yourself in. Hands still shaking, you took a moment to catch your breath, tossing the tampon on the bathroom floor. 

You needed to call Matt.

Slipping your phone out of your pocket, you pulled up your contacts and immediately dialed his number. You held the phone to your ear, but just as you suspected, it went straight to his voicemail. Because he was in court and he always had his phone turned off when he was in court. Closing your eyes, you whispered a curse into the bathroom stall. He’d already recessed for lunch just over an hour ago, you had no idea when he’d be out of court for the day and see your message. But you had to leave one anyway, hoping that he’d get it. 

At the beep you took a deep, shuddering breath and began your message, trying not to be too loud in case the men were somehow waiting near the bathroom.

“Matt, uh, I have a very big problem,” you began nervously. “There’s two men who just showed up at my office. They’re saying Backman sent a car for me for an interview.” You paused, eyes closing as you tried to keep your breathing even–falling into a panic attack would be a terrible idea right now. “I–I don’t think they’re your usual chauffeurs, though. I’m pretty sure one of them has a gun in their suit coat. And I have no idea where they’re going to take me.” 

Your mouth felt like it was going dry and you swallowed hard, trying to talk faster. You didn’t know how much longer you could pretend you were just using the bathroom. 

“It’s only Katy and I at the office,” you continued in a rush. “She’s calling the cops when I’m gone. I–I don’t see any other options here, Matt. I have to go with them.” You exhaled a shaky breath, the full weight of the situation you were trapped in hitting you hard. “You were right,” you whispered into your phone. “When guys with guns come after me, I’m not the one who knows how to fight back. You are.” 

Chewing your lip, your heart thundering in your chest, you felt the sting of tears in your eyes as a multitude of fears raced frantically through your mind. Would Matt even get this message in time to help? How would he even find where they were taking you? What did Backman even want with you? 

And were you even going to make it out of this alive?

Quickly you brushed away a tear that had slipped down your cheek with the back of your free hand. Fighting down a wave of nausea, you shakily whispered into your phone, “I–I have to go before they realize what I’m doing.” You paused one brief moment, blinking back tears. “I love you, Matt,” you breathed out, voice so quiet even to your own ears.

Pulling the phone from your ear, you hung up. Once again you wiped away the tears that had fallen from your cheeks before you exited the bathroom stall on unsteady legs. You began to slide your phone back into your pocket, but then you briefly paused, pulling it back out and looking down at the little device. They’d surely take your phone from you, probably destroy it so no one could track you with it, right? It’s not like they’d just let you make some calls and shoot some texts with it, so what was the point in bringing it with you? Maybe if you left it behind you’d seem more like a clueless and harmless reporter thinking you were really just going for an interview. Maybe that could work in your favor. 

You could do that. You could play innocent and dumb. So innocent and dumb you didn’t think to grab your phone–because who doesn’t carry their phone? Naive and clueless air-headed people, right? Especially someone who wasn’t thinking they were about to be kidnapped.

With shaking hands, you tossed your phone onto the bathroom counter away from you. Your stomach felt like it was sinking to the floor as you tossed away your only lifeline before walking straight into certain danger. Exhaling one last long breath, you squared your shoulders and made your way out of the bathroom.

Katy spun around on her office chair, her back rigid where she sat. The two men were still standing in front of the exit, arms crossed and looking quite intimidating. Walking towards them felt incredibly wrong, everything in your body screaming not to. You wished you could fight like Matt in this moment, wished you could knock them both out and get you and Katy out of the building–but you weren’t Matt. You weren’t Daredevil. You were just a reporter who’d made a mistake in your investigation and you were about to pay for it.

“Hey, we’re still on for tonight, right?” Katy asked you, her eyes clearly trying to tell you something else.

“Yeah, of course,” you told her, forcing that strained smile back onto your face.

“Good, I got you tonight, alright?” she replied.

“Thank you,” you answered, your eyes also trying to tell her something else.

Forcing your feet to carry you forward, you nervously approached the two burly men who looked irritated and impatient. You tried to wipe your sweaty palms against your dress pants as you stopped in front of them, your heart still wildly thrumming in your chest. 

“Let’s go,” Scar Face grumbled, gesturing with his head down the hall towards the elevator.

You nodded stiffly, fighting to keep your eyes from dropping down to the outline of the gun in his suit coat. He turned and began walking and you followed on trembling legs, Not Scar Face stalking down the hall behind you. As Scar Face hit the elevator call button, you tried to fight down another wave of nervous nausea. You needed to keep your cool, you needed to play a part, and you needed to do it believably. Because it might be your only way out of this.

“So uh,” you began, clearing your throat and trying to fight the waver in your voice, “what exactly is Mr. Backman’s interest in this unexpected interview?”

Not Scar Face’s attention shifted towards you and you refrained from flinching under his stare, his cold eyes studying you. You tried to keep your breathing steady as you held his gaze, very much trying to look like a curious and naive journalist.

“You can ask him yourself soon enough,” Not Scar Face told you.

The elevator doors opened, revealing that familiar empty and small space that now seemed terrifying to you. Scar Face threw out a hand, holding the doors before he glanced back at you, raising his brows expectantly. Forcing that strained smile back onto your face, you stepped in and muttered a polite ‘thank you’ as you did. 

You were just a naive, stupid little journalist after all. Not a threat. 

Both large men stepped in after you, Scar Face pushing the button for the main floor. The doors soon closed, trapping you in the elevator with the pair of them standing directly in front of you. Blocking any chance of you just bolting out of the elevator when the doors opened. Anxiously, your eyes darted up above their heads, your focus on the numbers quickly descending to the first floor. 

A minute later the doors opened, both men stepping out before you. Swallowing the lump in your throat, you continued to silently follow behind Scar Face as he led you out of the main doors of the building. Your eyes instantly landed on the black SUV parked in front of the building, not even remotely surprised that was where Scar Face was leading you. 

He turned when he reached the back door of the SUV, his eyes falling on you. You stopped when you neared him, refraining from flinching when his hand began moving. He ended up outstretching his palm expectantly towards you, your eyes dropping down towards it.

“Mr. Backman is a very private person,” Scar Face told you. “Your phone, please.”

You almost wanted to laugh out loud; of course they were going to take your phone. It was like Kidnapper 101. You knew they were going to.

You made a show of reaching towards your pocket, wanting to be compliant, and then pretending to be shocked that you didn’t actually grab your phone. Your hands even patted both of your pockets a few times, brows furrowing as you glanced down. Behind you, you heard Not Scar Face sigh in annoyance.

“Shit,” you cursed, glancing up at Scar Face. “I think I left it back at the office.”

His eyes narrowed suspiciously at you for a moment. You continued to keep that puzzled expression on your face as his hand lowered.

“Then I guess you won’t mind if we just double check, will you?” Not Scar Face snapped from behind you.

Before you could respond, you felt a pair of hands patting you down. Fighting back the urge to grimace at his touch, especially as his hands grabbed you in places you knew weren’t necessary, you tried to focus on taking deep, calming breaths. Eventually his hands left you, probably making some gesture to Scar Face because he nodded in front of you before turning and opening the car door. With a wave of his hand, he gestured for you to get into the car. Heart sinking to your feet, you made your way forward and climbed in. Not Scar Face slammed your door shut, opening the passenger door in front of you, though he hesitated as he waited for Scar Face to get into the driver’s side. The moment he did, Not Scar Face hopped in and the doors locked, the sound causing you to flinch.

As the car pulled out onto the street, the hair on the back of your neck rose. You were locked in this car with these two men. You had no way out. You had no idea where you were going. You had no idea if and when Matt was going to get your message or if the police Katy was surely calling would even find you. 

You weren’t sure how long you’d been in the car for either as they drove. Your eyes tried to memorize the route as you'd sat trapped. In the backseat, you had been nervously chewing your thumbnail and trying to come up with some plan of escape, but none were coming to you. And when the car pulled down a few side streets that looked disturbingly empty, you felt a sense of unease really settling over you. 

Eventually the car came to a stop in a vacant parking lot in front of what looked like an abandoned warehouse. Scar Face cut the engine and a dreadful silence fell over the three of you. The doors unlocked a few seconds later, both men getting out of the car. Not Scar Face immediately opened up your door, stepping aside when Scar Face rounded the vehicle and pointed a gun at you. Your back went rigid in the seat instantly, your eyes dropping down to the barrel of it.

“Get out,” he ordered.

Hands fumbling nervously, you unbuckled your seatbelt and slid out of the back seat. The cold metal of the gun was instantly at the back of your head, sick churning in your stomach at the feel of it.

“Walk,” he ordered next.

You followed behind Not Scar Face as he headed into the abandoned warehouse. Two other armed men were inside already, greeting your two kidnappers with nods of their heads. Eyes shifting behind them, you noticed a metal table and two metal chairs set up. The barrel of the gun dug into the back of your head, urging you forward.

“Sit,” Scar Face demanded.

Nervously you headed towards one of the chairs, your legs feeling like they were about to give out. You slowly sunk into the metal chair, adrenaline and fear coursing through you. Scar Face lowered into the other chair, resting the gun on the table and training it right on your chest. You felt like you could barely breathe.

“Now,” Scar Face began, the three men standing behind him armed with guns and just as intimidating, “I want you to start talking. What do you know about Daredevil? Who is he?”

Your mouth immediately went dry. “What?” you asked, taken aback.

Scar Face leaned forward along the table, eyes narrowing. “Who is Daredevil? We know he protected you once before from Figureroa’s men. We know he has a soft spot for Bulletin journalists. You clearly know him.”

“I–I have no idea who he is,” you said earnestly. “He showed up out of nowhere that night he saved me. I’ve never seen him since, I swear!”

“I’m not buying that,” Scar Face told you. “Now I know you’ve been looking into Wayland. And I know he’s been causing us quite a bit of trouble lately. Clearly the two of you are working together. And Backman would love nothing more than if we brought him his head."

“No, we’re–we’re not working together!” you pushed, eyes wide. 

Your heart was pounding so hard in your chest you thought it would give out. You weren't here for an interview with Backman you quickly realized–you were the bait for Matt. 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about!” you urged, panic flooding you knowing Matt would walk in on a trap. "I'm just a journalist!"

“Ugh, come on!” one of the men ground out behind Scar Face. “Just shut her up. We can use her to try to lure that asshole for now. And if he doesn’t show, then we can start with the questions.”

Scar Face’s jaw tightened as he studied you closely. You couldn’t hide the way your body was shaking in the metal chair, especially at the mention of questions–you didn't think they would just be talking to you. Slowly, he lowered the gun to the table, turning and rising up to his feet as he ran his hands over his face. Your eyes immediately dropped down to the loaded gun sitting across the table from you, heart pounding so loud in your own ears you couldn’t hear anything else.

Would it be possible for you to take that gun and try to shoot your way out of here? Was that your way out of this?

________

“Oh man, I could totally use a drink at Josie’s after that,” Foggy complained beside Matt, running a hand over his face. “I mean that witness testimony took four hours!”

“Yeah,” Matt chuckled, nodding his head. “I’m pretty sure that fried my brain, too, Fog.”

Matt adjusted his briefcase over his shoulder with his free hand, the other holding Foggy’s arm as Foggy led him down the courthouse steps. 

“You want to call your future fiance and see if she wants to come out?” Foggy teased, nudging Matt’s shoulder with his own.

Matt grinned in response, laughing lightly. “I can see if she’s available tonight, yeah,” he agreed.

"Ahh!" Foggy exclaimed loudly, pointing an accusatory finger at Matt. "So you don't deny she may be the future Mrs. Murdock!"

Still laughing lightly and shaking his head, Matt slipped his phone out of his dress pant’s pocket with his free hand. For a moment his finger felt around the edge of the phone before holding down the button to turn it back on. Seconds later he heard the buzz of the device as it kicked back to life.

"Your silence is really saying a lot, man," Foggy pointed out, leading Matt down the sidewalk and back towards the office. 

"Is it?" Matt shot back, shooting Foggy a playful grin.

The vibration and beep of Matt's phone drew his attention back to the device. That notification meant he had a new, unheard voicemail. Brows furrowing, he navigated his phone, pushing the button to bring up his voicemail. He held the phone to his ear as Foggy shot him a curious glance. 

"What's up?" he asked Matt. "You look confused."

"She sent me a voicemail," Matt told him, speaking over the automated voice that was reading off the name that had called and the time the message had been left. "But she knew we had court. She never calls and leaves messages when we do."

"Maybe it was important?" Foggy suggested.

A frown drew across Matt’s mouth the moment the message began to play. There was a nervous breath and a long pause, something you never did when you left messages. You normally began them with your cheerful or hurried tone. Something wasn't right. And his fear was confirmed the moment he heard your scared voice speaking into his ear.

“Matt, uh, I have a very big problem. There’s two men who just showed up at my office. They’re saying Backman sent a car for me for an interview.” 

There was a pause after your words, Matt instantly stopping on the sidewalk at the mention of Backman’s name. Foggy came to a stop, too, shooting Matt a confused look.

"What?" he asked.

But Matt didn't respond, too focused on the sound of your terrified voice.

“I–I don’t think they’re your usual chauffeurs, though. I’m pretty sure one of them has a gun in their suit coat. And I have no idea where they’re going to take me.” 

At the mention of a gun, Matt's hand gripped his phone tighter, his entire body tensing. You were in danger and you'd called for help. You'd called for help two hours ago. And he'd been stuck in court while men with guns had taken you. Anger burned in Matt–a burning white hot rage that was sure to quickly consume him.

“It’s only Katy and I at the office. She’s calling the cops when I’m gone. I–I don’t see any other options here, Matt. I have to go with them.” 

Matt's heart ached at the shaky exhale he heard you make over the message, his jaw tightening. You were terrified and you needed him and he hadn't been there for you. 

“You were right. When guys with guns come after me, I’m not the one who knows how to fight back. You are.”

His heart was thundering in his own ears, almost pounding louder than the sound of your nervous whisper in his ear. 

"I–I have to go before they realize what I’m doing.” There was a brief pause before he heard your voice so quiet one last time. “I love you, Matt.”

Tearing the phone from his ear, he slammed his finger on the button to end the message. Matt ripped his hand from Foggy's arm immediately.

"They took her," Matt snarled, enraged.

"What?" Foggy asked, panic flooding his voice. "Who?"

Matt said your name, his voice breaking on it. "Backman took her."

With a growl Matt tore his briefcase strap from over his head, tossing it roughly at Foggy. He fumbled but managed to catch it.

"Matt, what're you doing?" he asked nervously.

"I'm going to find her," he answered, his tone already darkened by the Devil when he spoke. "And so help me if they hurt her I will tear them apart ."

Spinning on his heel, ignoring Foggy's panicked voice calling after him, Matt darted down an alley. Once out of sight, he clambered up a fire escape towards the roof, racing across Hell's Kitchen towards his apartment for his suit. Spurred on by adrenaline and fear, he leapt from roof to roof without a care for himself, only one thing on his mind–he needed to find you.

[griffin-girl-r]

The legacy

Created: 23.05.2023

Finished: 23.05.2023

Edited: 14.05.2023

Age: 2

Word count: 2,153

Warnings: Gun, Blood, Death, Cussing

Request: Yes (Tumblr user)

AU: Mafia

Summary: Natasha discovers that a traitor is hiding inside her organization.

—

The early morning sun started shining through the curtains of the office of the world's most influential mafia leader.

Natasha Romanoff sat at her desk in silence, hidden in the shadows of the morning light.

Unexpectedly, the most influential and feared person in this world was a woman, much to the dismay of her rivals who were all men.

She was a living legend in the criminal underworld.

Her ruthless tactics and cunning intelligence made her unstoppable.

Natasha had grown up on the streets and slowly built her own empire out of the dust, even if this empire was mostly built on illegal things.

Natasha is cold, calculated, and fearless.

No one dared to cross her word as they knew that would be the end for them.

But unlike anything you would have expected from the most badass woman in the universe, Natasha was also a very respected and loved woman who cared for her friends and allies, and let's not forget about Natasha's secret soft side, her baby daughter, Y/N. Natasha's greatest accomplishment.

A small smile appeared on Natasha's face as the thought of her daughter made its way to the front of her mind.

That little 2-year-old was the only thing that was bounding the leader to her human side.

Y/N, the spitting image of her mother, was the most adorable toddler anyone could ever meet. She was very active, and curious and already had her own personality, making Natasha fall even deeper in love with her offspring.

Y/N was going to be a great leader one day after Natasha was no more. She is the rightful heir and Natasha already knows that her organization will be in very good hands with Y/N as the leader.

-

The door of the office was slowly pushed open, catching Natasha's attention she slightly tensed, confused about who could be disturbing her so early in the morning.

Natasha's shoulders slowly fell back down in relaxation as a wide smile formed on her face.

Clint Barton, her best friend, confidant, and adoptive brother, stepped inside the room carrying his niece in his arms and apologetically looked at his friend.

"Sorry to bother you, Tasha." Clint quietly apologized "I know the rules but this little one started crying when she realized you weren't in bed next to her and I heard her from my room so here she is." He finished, pointing his head towards Y/N

"It's okay, Clint. Don't worry about it." Natasha nodded, standing up from her chair and walking over to him "Now, why is my little princess awake so early?" She cooed, taking you into her arms

"Mama!" You cried, hiding your face in her chest and tightly clinging to her shirt

"I'm here, baby." Natasha rubbed your back "You're safe."

All it took was a few reassuring words from your mother and just as that, you were sound asleep in her arms, your head resting on her shoulder and your face hidden in her neck.

Your soft, warm breath had a calming effect on Natasha who was very stressed lately due to the leak of some information that, if it ended up in the wrong hands, would mean the complete destruction of the Romanoff empire once the public found out those pieces of information.

"Aren't you the sweetest thing in the whole wide world?" Natasha quietly chuckled, pressing a kiss to your temple and sitting down at her desk

"Nat?" Clint quietly and carefully called his friend to get her attention "There's something we need to talk about."

Natasha didn't like the sound of this. She knew that this private conversation could only mean one thing.

Problems.

"Go on." The woman nodded "I'm listening."

Clint gulped as he gathered enough courage to talk "We found out that there is a rat between our ranks." He declared "That's why precious information is slipping and we're losing money, and shipments."

"I know." Natasha casually answered "I already figured that out. To be the best means to always be a step ahead of your enemy. I know who is that rat and I'll very soon get rid of it."

Clint nodded but made no effort to hide the shock at the fact that his friend already knew who the intruder was.

"I'm going to leave Y/N with Wanda and while I do that, I need you to gather everyone at the operational center for an emergency meeting.'' She ordered

"Yes, boss." Clint rushed out of the room to complete his orders

-

Two hours later, the meeting room was filled with people who were loudly asking one another about all the possible reasons why they were summoned there today.

Silence fell over the room when the door swung open and everyone recognized their fierce leader.

Natasha took her place at the head of the long, mahogany table.

Every person who was present in the room knew they were extremely lucky to be in Natasha's presence. She offered a second chance to the majority of them and they were forever in debt to her for saving them from the streets.

"What is this all about, Natasha?" A voice broke the silence

Antonia, one of Natasha's most trusted people asked.

Natasha smirked as she leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table.

"I hoped you would be the one to ask that." The redheaded leader coldly stated before shifting her attention to the entire room and loudly addressing everyone "My trust has been betrayed." She declared "We have a rat in our organization that has been giving away very important and secret information that could lead to our end."

Various gasps and quiet murmurs were heard from all across the room as panic was quickly filling the room.

"Silence!" Natasha shouted and every sound chased immediately

"But who would dare do such a thing?" Steve, one of Natasha's partners dared to ask

Natasha stood up from her place and started pacing around the room as all the eyes were on her.

"An ungrateful piece of shit that bit the hand who fed her." The boss answered

The men in the room relaxed. At least they knew the traitor was a woman.

Now the question is, which woman?

Was it Pepper, that was managing Natasha's contracts and a close friend of hers?

Was it Maria, Natasha's childhood friend, who was in charge of Natasha's security?

Was it Antonia, the girl Natasha rescued a long time ago, who was in charge of the shipments?

Or maybe it was Wanda, that, for whatever reason, she wasn't able to attend today's meeting as always.

The feared leader, known as the Black Widow for her capacity to trick her victims before killing them, turned her attention back on Antonia and slowly started walking in her direction.

"When I rescued you, you were the slave of your own father." Natasha pointed towards the younger girl "You were tortured on a daily basis and he only wanted you to grow into the best assassin that could solve his unfinished businesses. I took you in, raised you, offered you a place in my organization, and swore to take revenge on your father for what he did to you and countless other girls." Anger was more and more evident in her voice "And I did! I killed Dreykov and I put an end to his organization. I put an end once and for all to the Red Room! I did it all just so you could stab me in my back years later, bitch."

Natasha was furious.

She was usually a calm and calculated woman and seeing her bursting with range was such a rare sight. So rare that it send chills running down everyone's back at the angered tone of her voice.

"You know I don't agree with your ideals, Natasha." Antonia said defyingly

"If you didn't agree you should have left the organization, not going around, sneaking information to H.Y.D.R.A." The leader shouted but quickly regained her calm composure "You have become a liability to this organization." She said firmly "Your actions have put us all in danger."

Natasha's cold voice was scary but Antonia didn't back down from this fight as any rational person would do.

"You think you're so tough, Natasha." Antonia sneered "But you forget, that there are plenty of people out there who would love to take you and your little daughter down."

More gasps were heard from the people who were intently watching their argument.

Natasha's best-kept secret had been revealed in front of everyone.

"Daughter?" Said one of the voices

"You have a daughter?" Asked another one "Why haven't you told us?"

Something in Natasha snapped at the mention of Y/N.

She quickly walked closer to the table, her eyes ablaze with fury.

"You will never threaten my daughter!" Natasha growled "And no one will ever take me down. I built this empire with my own hands and I won't allow anyone to snatch it away from me."

With a swift movement, Natasha pulled out her gun and aimed it at Antonia.

The other lieutenants in the room looked on in shock as Natasha stood her ground, her finger hovering over the trigger.

Protests started erupting, filling the room with the speed of light.

"Natasha, stop." Clint held his arm up towards her "There's no need for something like this."

"I think Clint's right, Natasha." Steve rushed to back Clint up "Killing Antonia isn't going to change anything."

"Go ahead, Natasha." Antonia challenged the woman, her voice was cold "You'll be no better than the rest of us and it won't stop them from coming after the heir of this so-called empire of yours. They know where you keep her hidden."

"Beside Clint and Maria, no one knows where I keep my baby hidden." Natasha held the gun tighter in her hand "You want me to believe that you know where she is?"

"I followed you, Natasha." Antonia smirked "They'll get rid of her then of you."

For a moment, Natasha hesitated.

But then she thought of her daughter, and her resolve hardened.

She pulled the trigger, and Antonia fell to the ground, dead. A bullet hole in her head.

Natasha had perfectly aimed the shot. As always, she never misses a shot.

Loud protests began again to be heard but they were soon silenced by Natasha's death stare.

"Anyone else who thinks they can cross me, can meet the same fate." She said, her voice icy "This is my organization and I won't tolerate any threats to my daughter or my power."

And with that, Natasha stormed out of the room, leaving the others with many questions in their minds and also the remainder of why she is called the Black Widow.

Fierce, protective, and lethal.

Those were the three words that were describing her the best.

"How can this woman be a mother?" Tony opened his mouth after a long silence, where everybody just stared at the dead body at their feet "I bet her kid's fucking scared of her."

"Shut up, asshole!" Maria Hill shouted, quickly pointing her knife at Tony's throat "Don't open your filthy mouth and talk shit if you don't know the truth. No one speaks badly about either Y/N or Natasha."

Tony gulped and shut his mouth closed.

-

Back at Natasha's secret villa, the redheaded leader was slowly rocking her daughter, who was asleep in her arms, from side to side, as she looked outside the window at the rain that started to pour outside and thought about today's events.

Luckily for Natasha, she didn't get time to think too much about it because her daughter stirred awake and looked up at her, a sleepy smile appearing on the innocent child's face, and all of a sudden, the loud voices in Natasha's head were silenced.

Natasha smiled as she kissed Y/N's forehead and hugged her daughter closer to her chest, finding so much comfort in the warmth that the little body was emanating.

"I love you so much, baby girl." Natasha whispered in her daughter's soft, baby hair "I'm going to forever protect you. You'll be always safe with me."

"Baby love Mama lots and lots." Y/N replied in her sleepy voice, much to Natasha's surprise who thought that her child was back asleep

At that moment, even for just a brief moment, with Y/N so close to her heart, Natasha could almost forget that she was leading a mafia group.

Now Natasha needs to put an end to the rival organization named H.Y.D.R.A. with her own hands.

She was a badass woman, feared by all, but she was also a mother who loved her daughter more than anything and she will do everything she has to to ensure her daughter's protection and maintain her position of power.

The Black Widow legacy was far from being over.

[chthonicgodling]

okay it’s a half second after midnight so I can post this

HAPPYYYYYYYY BEGINNING OF THE BIRTHDAY CARAVAN OF (NOT)TRIPLETS, from June 1st through June 3rd! Beginning with Pyralis today, then Enodia “N” tomorrow on the 2nd, and Celos after that on the 3rd - these three TODDLERS TURN THREE YEARS OLD!!

(CCrumbles into dust and drags you all with me) I know I literally can’t believe that EITHER,

seen here with pile o’ parents and in birthday order: Tory with Py! Chal and N! Maci and (IN HIS DAEMON FORM ) Celos!

ffffffor the uninformed a quick recap on the deal with these three , why tf I keep saying NOTtriplets, for thhhhose of you who didn’t watch this whole debacle unfold threee years agooooo:

Tory was just a few weeks pregnant with his and Maci’s surprise baby Celos when Elysium Drama Update Crisis Mode activated upon Chal and Bel conceiving a VERY surprise baby, leaving Chal pregnant and in utter complete meltdown panic mode. Tory & Maci had newly adopted Chal as their own daughter, Chal had newly switched genders permanently, and Chal had also newly been reckoning with healing from the nightmare situations of her birth parents. Chal’s a mess! Having a baby all of a sudden???? THE MOST HORRIFYING SUDDEN SITUATION FOR HER AND BEL. But Chal didn’t want to abort it completely and when Tory volunteered to adopt this baby too as his and Maci’s own instead, Chal and Bel thought this was the perfect solution.

Furthermore, the gang discovered that once a fetus was immortal, an immortal infant could be grown… anywhere at all, y’know, the so called ✨Dionysus method✨ With Chal panicking over being pregnant as well, Tory volunteered to carry this baby as a physical twin to Celos once able and throuhh the help of childbirth goddess Iliythia, they moved the baby over and TORY carried her to term. As time went on Chal cautiously warmed up to being semi involved in this baby’s life maybe - she and Bel even named her when Tory suggested they do so, thus Enodia.

Tory was super overdue with these babies and then like a week before he was finally induced, Ilithyia finally noticed that the constantly squirming mass of limbs she’d been clocking as Celos was… ACTUALLY TWO BABIES. Tory had been pregnant from the get go with his and Maci’s TWINS, and chucking N in there had created TRIPLETS. The two of them can each shift into weaselly daemon form and it had been hard to keep track of them! Thus, last minute surprise of all surprises- PYRALIS.

Tory was in labor with the triplets for three days (💀) hence, above, and. Well.,, when Chal and Bel actually met N face to face, Chal fell so completely and unexpectedly in love with her. They spent more time around her…. With her……… finally, after a few months, they sheepishly approached Tory about being involved in N’s life as her parents in some capacity. Tory did them one better, and entrusted her just fully into their care completely 💞

and they all lived happily ever after! almost literally over the next 3 years Chal has barely let go of N ever ever ever haha

this is all significantly less dramatic when you remember they all live in One Big Palace and we’re talking about moving like, one room down the hall. WELL! An extremely convoluted background to arrive just at the same point as if all that hadn’t even happened in the first place. It’s okay we love our weirdo wombmate kids. This all sounds like it could make some kind of great Greek myth some day fgfkkfkg LIKE,,

Tory, best of all time forever, belongs to the hiatused @fenixethekid ; all these other guys are mine! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR BABBYSSSSSS

[doomandgloomfromthetomb]

Damon & Naomi - Best Video Film & Cultural Center, Hamden, Connecticut, May 12, 2023

Following up Powers / Rolin, we're keeping it duo-y this week with a fabulous tape of Damon & Naomi in the "almost pretty" state of Connecticut earlier this year. D&N were playing Best Video Film & Cultural Center, a nonprofit venue/community gathering space that honestly seems like one of the coolest places in the entire Nutmeg State. "I don't know why we haven't played a video store before," Damon marvels, later noting the unexpectedly excellent acoustics that a wall of VHS tapes provides.

And yeah, he and Naomi are wonderful as always, playing several tunes from their latest/greatest A Sky Record along with some welcome dips into their rich back catalog, which now stretches back over 30 years. I especially enjoy the songs in which Naomi picks up her bass — such a unique and absorbing sound. In the first issue of the highly recommended new zine Head Voice (more on that soon), Ben Chasny and Elisa Ambrogio go deep with Yang about that sound. "[I]f you play really low all the time, the club starts to vibrate and everything falls off the shelves. It's like a seismic sound, all those super low notes. But I think I really started playing higher up because I always write the bass lines by singing them, so that is where my voice is. I also just thought it sounded pretty and it cut through."

The laid-back setting also encourages banter, so we get to hear about D&N's newly adopted cat, misadventures on the Merritt Parkway and Tim Buckley's appearance on The Monkees. And hey, there's even a majestic rendition of the old Galaxie 500 chestnut "Another Day" ... though I'm also going to suggest you check out the radical version of this song from around the same time with Meg Baird and Charlie Saufley. (Oh and then maybe you can dig the quartet's radical Popol Vuh cover???)

In case you haven't guessed yet, this recording is another dig into the Alex Butterfield Archives, which have given us untold treasures over the past several years. Go dig through the tapes! Thank you, Alex!

[rake-rake]

For Father's day we have!

BNHA!

Dalma and his grandpa attitude! (turned his grandson into a Nomu)

Rikiya and his fatherly vibes! (stress over 9000%)

Hagusa! (self explanatory)

FGO!

Our favorite Lord of the Furthest Reaches, genderfluid dad King Arthur! (got killed by his son)

Grand Caster Gilgamesh! Never had children (Enkidu Enkidu Enkidu) but the dad vibes with everyone are off the charts!

Absolutely really Ancient Fae King Oberon and no one else! All Fae are his children! (do not start)

JJK!

Intersexual icon Satoru adopting Megumi and Tsumiki! They're greedy and celebrate both Father and Mother's day! (the more sweets they get the better)

The one responsible adult still alive, Miguel! Aka Yuta's dad! Troubled children are going nowhere, he's adopting them all.

Naobito.

Noragami!

Yato picking up the first stray kid he sees! (wouldn't recommend but also no regrets)

Father. (Father)

Soulsborne!

Gehrman adopting and raising Maria as his own! (and then going crazy with grief after her death and selling his soul to an eldritch horror to bring her back)

Said Eldritch Horror, Oedon, the flora of the Moon! (Multiple kids. Do not ask.)

Fave King Gwyndolin! Raised his half-sister Yorshka like his own kid! (pain suffering pain)

TG!

And finally Haise, the unexpectedly reliable paternal figure for the Quinx! (nothing bad to say he was amazing)