#but being able to make a birthday cake for his dear friend...that brings him joy as well
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Oh Prisma, we all know that Meta Knight must have tried to make you a cake but it didn't turn out so good... Has he always been that helpless with cooking? Well, it's the thought that counts đđ° Happy birthday! :>
"Lucky for him, I love to bake! So I've been teaching him a thing or two lately..."
"I'm quite proud of the progress he's made."
#borbology#meta knight#prisma knight#kirby#kirby oc#meta really wanted to learn to bake so he has something to satiate his sweet tooth#but being able to make a birthday cake for his dear friend...that brings him joy as well#hes still not the best cook but he is finding he loves to bake desserts thanks to prisma
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Hey can I please request a post war George Weasley x squib reader where she lives with her muggle mum (her wizard dad died in the war) and has been away from the wizarding world for a long time and george kinda brings her back to it thanks Xx
Helloooođ What an interesting idea! I enjoyed exploring the more melancholy aspects of the wizarding world, so thanks for the suggestion. Hope you enjoy!đ«¶
AUTHOR'S NOTE:
Dear reader,
As you may or may not know, I post extensive, multiple part fanfiction stories. I must remind you or clarify that I do not consider any requests I write as parts of those stories. Thank you for readingâ€ïž
FANFICTION (REQUEST): George Weasley x Squib Reader (Female) - Empathy - Part 1
WARNINGS: mentions of violence and death
Birthday. Every year before, the word had brought feelings of excited anticipation and joy, but today it only made you feel down (and that was an extreme understatement).
That evening you would have your first birthday celebration without your father. Almost nine months ago, he died in the Second Wizarding War, leaving you and your muggle mother magicless except for a few trinkets, including his wand.
You kept it with you at all times. Not because it would be of any use to you (because it wouldn't), but for it's sentimental value. Of course, the wand reminded you of dear Dad, but it also brought to your mind the wonderful things he used to talk about.
When you were younger, as a squib it was complete torture to only hear stories and see small tricks from your father when you couldn't go explore the wizarding world and practice magic for yourself. But, after the war and learning more about the dark side of magic, a part of you came to despise and fear it. It was difficult to feel anything else for the thing that killed your father.
Though, sometimes, when you were alone with only your dad's wand to keep you company, you would be tempted to hold it, to point it and cast pretend spells like you did when you were little. You imagined yourself commanding your bedroom to tidy itself or your cat to talk back when you asked him a question. But, no matter how hard you imagined it, you would never be able to wield magic. That was the sad truth. When your father was around, the truth was tolerable because he could. He could do all of those things and so much more, and he was so kind to show you even a sliver of what he knew.
But he was gone along with his magic. He died and you and your mum went on with your regular, muggle-styled lives. You had to tell everyone that your father died in a car crash. It hurt. You wanted everyone to know about your father's sacrifice, his bravery, and how he fought for a righteous cause. But they would never know...
"Y/n?" your mother said, pulling you away from your thoughts. You sat on the couch in the living room, failing to stay focused enough to read the book in your hands while Mum iced your birthday cake in the kitchen.
"Yeah?" you replied.
"Did you hear me?"
"No, sorry. I was distracted."
"It's alright. I was just saying Mr. and Mrs. Weasley want to pop by for a quick visit tonight to wish you a happy birthday."
Oh no. Please, no more condolences, you thought.
"Okay. Thanks for letting me know," you sigh wearily.
"Hey, don't be like that." Mum wiped her hands on her apron as she went to sit on the couch beside you. She wrapped her arm around your shoulders affectionately. "The Weasley's are good friends."
"I suppose... It's just been so long... too long since I have seen them," you said. "And they had a son die in the war."
Mum blinked in concern and confusion. "Well, yes, but I don't see why that would make them unwelcome."
You rested your head on her arm. "It's just that... they're gonna want to talk about Dad, and then it would be rude not to mention their son... It'll turn into a pity party instead of a birthday party."
"You're being ridiculous," Mum scoffed, but you could tell she understood your point just fine. "Besides, they have a present for you. And we can't eat the cake all by ourselves."
"What's wrong with leftovers?"
It was Mum's turn to sigh. "I'm sorry, but they insisted on coming. It's good of them to reach out to us. And it's just a quick visit."
"Might as well get it over with. It was bound to happen anyway."
"Y/nâ"
"Yes, yes, I know better than to act like this in front of them. Don't worry. I'll be nice."
You truly didn't want to talk about the war, but you didn't want to see the Weasley's also because they had magic. You never told your mother about your new fear of witches and wizards because you thought it was silly. You knew there was plenty of good magic, or rather good uses for magic. Magic doesn't kill. Your father never endangered you or your mum, but there were bad people in the wizarding world just like the bad people in the muggle world.
When you heard a knock on the front door that evening, your heart leapt with panic. Even though you knew Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were good people, a part of you was afraid of them.
"Mum, the Weasley's are here!" you called behind you. Mum hurried out of the kitchen to come stand behind you, leaving it up to you to open the door. You took in a deep, nervous breath as you reached for the knob and opened the door.
"Happy birthday, y/n!" Mrs. Weasley greeted you cheerily. She stood on the ends of her small feet to kiss you on the cheek, embracing you like you were her own child. "How are you, dear?"
"I'm alright, thanks. How are you guys?"
"Good!" Mr. Weasley responded, walking through the door behind his wife. He shook your hand enthusiastically. "Happy birthday, y/n!"
"T-thank you..." You began to feel emotional, remembering the love you had for the Weasley family and their caring, happy ways. Before you could get teary-eyed, another person walked through the door behind Mr. Weasley, surprising you.
You were taken aback, believing for a moment that Fred, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley's son who was killed in the war, was standing in front of you. But you knew that was impossible, and you also knew that Fred had a twin. So, the young man must've been Fred's twin, George.
"Hello, y/n! Happy birthday!" he said, grinning crookedly and handing you a brown, paper bag.
You smiled, laughing awkwardly as you accepted the gift. "George, hello! What a pleasant surprise."
"Yeah, sorry about that," George chuckled, closing the door behind him. "I wasn't invited, I know. But I liked the thought of... reintroducing myself since the last time we saw each other. I was just a kid then, probably immatureâ"
Mrs. Weasley snorted as she pulled your mother in for a hug. "You say that like you've matured so much!"
You all laugh.
"I have! Just not enough to get rid of my good sense of humor," George snickered.
"I think I was about nine when I saw you last," you say, reminiscing about the Weasley's magical house. "It was Thanksgiving, wasn't it?"
"Yes, I remember it," George chuckled, nodding. "Your eyes opened so wide at everything; I thought they were going to fall out of your skull!"
Mrs. Weasley shot George a warning glance, but you pretended not to notice, and laughed, "I'm sure I'd still have the same reaction now."
"And how old are you today, y/n?" Mrs. Weasley asked.
"Eighteen," you replied.
Mr. Weasley's brow furrowed. "Isn't that a significant age for muggles?"
"Well, I can vote now, butâ"
"And how exactly does that work?" Mr. Weasley asked, intrigued.
"Oh, don't bother the poor girl with questions," Mrs. Weasley said.
"I'd be happy to tell you about it sometime, Arthur," Mum chuckled. "For now, how about we open presents!"
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#george weasley#george weasley fic#george weasley x reader#george weasley fanfic#george weasley fanfiction#george weasley x y/n#molly weasley#arthur weasley#reader pov#wizarding world#magic#battle of hogwarts#fanfics#fanfiction#weasley family
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Hi, Eve
Rose here from yesterday, thank you very much for the Birthday message, I wasn't expecting you to read it let alone reply but I was looking for Coops kids Birthday fluff specifically. It doesn't matter if you don't have time however as I don't want to be a bother.
Hello Rose, and happy (belated) 20th birthday! Sorry for the wait--I really wanted to get this one right to celebrate such an important number. I hope your day was absolutely fantastic! SW credit goes to @lumosinlove, but Stella is an OC
Combined with asks for Sirius lightly making fun of Remus' accent and Remus yelling at a game show (@nazar4114)
âMedusa!â Stella shouted with all the force in her thirteen-year-old lungs. Remus leaned forward on the couch. âMedusa!â
The front door opened with a creak. âIâm hââ
âYes!â they cheered in unison as Nicole answered correctly. Remus turned and gave Stella a double high-five, feeling his heart squeeze at the vivid joy on her round face. âGood guess.â
âI knew she was gonna get it,â Stella said with a pump of her fist as she turned back to the show and folded her legs underneath her.
âGonna,â a familiar deep voice mimicked from the doorway. Paper bags rustled before footsteps stopped behind the couch; Remus tilted his chin up without sparing a glance, and Sirius pressed a laugh-laced kiss to his cheek before dropping one on Stellaâs head as well. âYou sound too much like your dad.â
âLove you, too,â Remus said wryly.
âIâll take âMyths and Mothsâ for 400, please.â Nicoleâs voice snapped his attention back to the screen, and Stella narrowed her eyes.
âDaily Double!â the automated voice announced. Stella gasped; Remus bit his lower lip. âThis mythical shield was wielded by Athena, and is sometimes said to be made of goat skin.â
âAegis,â Stella whispered, then raised her voice. âItâs the Aegis, Nicole. You know this.â
âWe know you do,â Remus said, scooting forward. âYou just guessed whose head is on it.â
Nicoleâs buzzer went off with two seconds to spare. âWhat is the Aegis?â
âHell yeah!â Stella whooped.
Remus turned to her and raised his eyebrows. âExcuse you.â
âSorry.â
âAre you two going to do this the whole afternoon?â Sirius asked from the kitchen, obviously amused. âWe might need to get the neighbors some noise-cancelling headphones.â
Stella blew a dark lock of hair out of her eyes as she flopped her head back. âItâs almost final Jeopardy, papa. We have, like, ten minutes.â
Sirius blinked at her, then shook his head. âI swear you two share genes.â
âOpe, you caught me,â Remus said over the noise of the commercial break. âWhen I was 20 and had literally never left Wisconsin, I went and had a secret kid in Maine who looks terribly like you just so that someone would watch Jeopardy reruns with me thirteen years later. Oops.â
âItâs the truth,â Stella said with great gravity. âI remember.â
âMon dieu,â Sirius muttered, though he couldnât keep a smile down. He had never been able to hide around Stella, not once in the three years since they had adopted her. It was one of the things Remus loved most about him. âBy the way, nobody under the age of fourteen is allowed in the kitchen for the nextâŠhour. Ish.â
Stella squirmed around until she could rest her arms on the back of the couch. âWhat if I get thirsty?â
âIâm sure you can invoke birthday privileges and ask your dad to get something for you.â
âBirthday privileges?â Remus scoffed. âNobody in this house has a birthday today. Yours was last month, and mineâs in March.â
âItâs my birthday,â Stella said.
âWhat? No, itâs not.â
âYeah-huh.â
âYour birthday is in June.â
âItâs today.â
âOr maybe July?â
âItâs today, in December, when thereâs snow,â she insisted, throwing herself back against the pillows. âCome on, dad, thatâs not funny anymore.â
Remus raised his eyebrows. âIs somebody too old to find their poor old dad amusing now? Can you go back to being twelve so somebody will laugh at my jokes again? I know, I know, we're super lame compared to all your friendsâ parentsââ
âSo lame,â Sirius agreed from the kitchen.
ââbut I like to think we get one more year of pre-teen cuteness before the teen angst takes over.â
Stella sat up again with a groan. Looking at her, Remus saw a mix of himself and Sirius that had always baffled him, considering they had adopted her comparatively late in her life; beneath it was something uniquely Stella. Maybe it was her double-jointed elbows, or the board-straightness of her hair next to their curls, but there was no mistaking that she was her own person through and through. He loved that about her. âIâm not going to be a terrible teenager.â
Sirius poked his head around the edge of the kitchenâhis nose was adorned with a smudge of flour. âCan I record that for future use?â
âNon.â
âOoo, using the French,â Remus hissed. âThat transformation is already beginning.â
âItâs not like you were bad teenagers, right?â She settled upside-down on the couch with her flamingo-patterned socks high in the air.
âI almost convinced Grandma to let me dye my hair blue, but otherwise I was pretty good.â
âI was terrible,â Sirius laughed. âI didnât talk to anybody for a solid three years.â
Stella frowned. âHow? I think Iâd die if I did that.â
âHeâs stubborn,â Remus stage-whispered.
âI heard that.â
Stella suppressed her laughter as best she could, but she was about as good at hiding her emotions around them as Sirius was. She didnât really giggleâthe amount her voice had deepened over the past three years always gave Remus whiplashâbut her laugh had the same cadence as it did the first day they heard it. While Stella had been quiet at first, it only took love and time to bring her out of her shell. Within a year she settled into their lives like she was always meant to be there.
A thoughtful look crossed her face. âThis is my last year before high school.â
âDoes it feel different?â
âNot really.â She paused, then shrugged. âAnd a little. I donât feel older. It just feels like thereâs stuff I wonât get to do anymore.â
âAnd a lot more you will get to do.â Sirius left his dishtowel on the counter before joining them on Stellaâs other side. âYou can drive soon, youâll get a longer curfew, you get more freedomâŠâ
âI guess.â
âWhat are you going to miss?â Remus asked as she toyed with the hem of her shirt. It was a basic Lions FAN jersey; he was fairly sure she bought it to be ironic. That, and she only wore one of theirs if she was upset with the other, or if one needed a boost at a game.
âI dunno.â A few beats of silence passed. âMy classmates. My team. It feels like everythingâs going to turn upside down.â
âYou can still keep in touch with your friends, and I bet your team wonât be too different,â Sirius said quietly. âEven if it does, that doesnât mean you have to give all of them up. People change in different ways. They come and go on their own time.â
âThereâs going to be a lot of upside-downs over the next couple years, kid.â Remus offered her a smile. âBut youâre going to be just fine.â
âYou two sound like such dads right now.â
âThis might shock you, but thatâs because we are.â
The corner of her mouth tugged up and she lolled her head to the side to look at Sirius. âIs the cake done?â
âFifteen more minutes.â
âWill you watch final Jeopardy with us?â
âWhatâs the category?â
âUS Presidents.â
Sirius exhaled through his nose, but nodded. She grinned and turned herself upright to snuggle against his arm. âYou just enjoy watching me lose.â
---------------------------
âAlright, is everyone ready?â Sirius called from the kitchen.
âOn three,â Remus said, raising his phone camera. âOne, two, three!â
âHappy birthday to you,â over a dozen voices sang. They were off-tempo and so out of key the composer was probably spinning in his grave, but Stellaâs clear joy didnât waver for a millisecond even as her cheeks reddened. âHappy birthday to you! Happy birthday dear Stella, happy birthday to you!â
Finn, of course, dragged out the last note. So did Leo, Logan, Kasey, James, Lily, and Talker in varying degrees of awful harmony attempts. It was terrible, and beautiful. âMake a wish,â Sirius said softly as he set the cake down and stepped back. His eyes were the brightest quicksilver Remus had seen in many moons.
Stella closed her eyes, took a breath, and blew as hard as she couldâthe entire room erupted into cheers when all the candles went out. She was laughing and blushing at the same time when Remus turned the lights back on, though the humor won out in the end and she helped pass plates of cake to her many aunts and uncles. Like every year prior, Regulus managed to smear a bit of frosting on her chin, only to immediately deny it with great offense when she noticed. It was becoming a bit of a traditionâone that Remus never grew tired of.
I know what I would wish for, Remus thought as he looked around the table at their patchwork family. Celeste, Dumo, and his own parents had no doubt spoiled their first grandchild with âcusp of adulthoodâ gifts, and Natalie and Lily would certainly steal her away after cake for some girl time. Finn and Logan would remain the fun uncles while Leo and Regulus kept their thrones as the cool uncles; Stella would interrogate Jules on the intricacies of high school for at least an hour before they destroyed everyone in a snowball fight. The world they built together had a place for everyone.
I would wish for this. This, for us, forever. It wasnât a bad eternity to imagine.
#remus lupin#sirius black#coops#coops kid#stella#lions#regulus black#my fic#fanfic#sweater weather#vaincre#lumosinlove#birthday party
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Aug. DWC 2022 - Day 7
Peace âOoh my Goddess, youâre such a big girl now!â Jirokiâs heart squeezes in her chest as she dotes on her littlest child, Cylliah Glaivefall, the family celebrating the childâs first birthday. Food and cake already has been served and eaten. The rest of the children were off playing already, hyped up on sugar and horsing around on some low hanging trees. Sharpen Jadescythe is watching them, having his daughter Sunner strapped to him. The Glaivefall twins are young and trying to play with some of their older cousins, a Kaldorei boy named Andorus and a full blooded human Jaxon. The two boys can steadily climb the tree on their own, but Sharpen helps the twins to make sure they can climb partially without falling. Merliâneath stands nearby too, enjoying watching the children playing as she carries the toddler Taldreath. As she carries him on her arm, in hand heâs carrying his most favorite toy at this time, a blue elephant plush toy that goes by the name of Petunia Jenua. Just a bit off to the side resides the âparty siteâ where everyone had sat and ate. Some of the other adults that had attended are scattered a bit around the general proximity; Jirokiâs sister Estal with her boyfriend Szadek and her adult son, the twinâs father Draxâara, as well as the mother of Andorus named Reillea, a dear friend to Jiroki and who lives on the land with the Glaivefalls. They subtly watch the children play in their own social circles, but for the time being Jiroki and Cylliah sit on a blanket with two others.
Jason Helsong has brought his own daughter to Cylliahâs birthday party. Just a few months younger than Cylliah, Gwen Frostseer has matching dirty blonde hair like her fatherâs, though her icy blue eyes belong to her own mother. Gwen has fallen asleep, tuckered from the festivities, and Cylliah is not far behind as her eyes flicker heavily from sleep. Jiroki is tucking her into a little makeshift napping spot where she can rest comfortably without rolling, though hopefully the joyful cries of the other children wonât keep the two girls up. âThis means Gwenâs birthday is coming up in a few monthsâŠâ It starts to sink in for Helsong that his own daughter will soon be one, only having just sometime after meeting Jiroki being able to have shared custody with his ex. âWhat- What should we do? Should we have it at the port? Oh no, Juviaâs father will probably be thereâŠâ Having a tremendous fear of his exâs father, already paling at just the mere memory of the man. But the color returns to his face as Jiroki lays a hand on him and starts to rub his back.
âRelax.â Jiroki chuckles. âWe can have our own birthday party for her here, but you should see what Juvia wants to do the next time you see her. She said she wanted to meet Cylliah, so maybe we can bring her and Taldreath over for a party. The twins might be a bit too energetic for it.â âYouâre rightâŠâ Helsong watches as said twins are now trying to enlist the help of their father for higher tree climbing. Thankfully Draxâara doesnât seem keen on being too mischievous with all of the little ones around, and is now trying to interest them in some stone skipping at the lake they all border. Helsong looks back to Jiroki and his worries ease away, giving her a dreamy expression as he stares at her, content. âDonât look at me like that.â Jiroki snickers, color blossoming on her cheeks as she has to shyly look away. But Helsong reaches over to take her hand, giving a loving squeeze as he keeps looking at her in the same way. âI think my face will get stuck like this living with you.â Trying to be funny, but his cheesy nature just making Jiroki giggle, which only encourages his behavior. âI- I love you. A lot.â âI know.â Glancing back at him, her smile full of joy. âHow is your ear healing? Is it still sore?â âOh- kind of.â Helsong reaches up to a new ear piercing he has. Just a single one on his left ear, having a sharp ended piercing until itâs fully healed and he can change the earring. Even though he confirmed itâs a bit sore, he touches it regardless, which reaffirms it is in fact sore and makes him wince. âTaldreath pulled it the other day⊠I thought I was going to die.â âOh no!â Jiroki laughs at his exaggeration, even though she shouldnât. âIâm so sorry! Iâll kiss it betterâŠâ Jiroki leans in, not actually kissing the piercing but at the top of the ear instead. Helsong for a moment tenses, then nearly shivers as he feels his lover's lips on him. âI- I might need more later. Tonight. To- feel better. Itâs⊠really sore.â Trying to be vague yet flirty all at once, his efforts tickling the woman. She snickers, very much understanding his intentions. He keeps his sleeping daughter close to his chest, but Jiroki deigns to plant a few more kisses along his cheek. âYouâre getting much more than some kisses tonight.â Jiroki whispers against his cheek, causing the man to blush furiously. His cloudy eyes dart around, seeing if anyone else happens to be close at all, and he gives a nervous but heart filled chuckle. âIs it my birthday?â He asks playfully, which makes her erupt in laughter. âMINâDA!â A sudden urgent cry calls out from Anorahm causing the pair look over at her. âAnâda said you canât throw rocks! But Iâve seen you throw rocks and mpmph-â Draxâara suddenly clamps a hand over his daughterâs mouth, trying to silence her before she summons the beast, but itâs too late. âHe what?!â Jiroki feels challenged, too easy to bait, especially by loved ones. âBaby can you watch Cylliah? I need to remind Drake why he still works for me.â Already beginning to stand. Helsong rolls his eyes, a learned trait heâs been getting from Jiroki, but he just snickers and adjusts his hold on Gwen. âOf course my love. Knock him dead.â
Jiroki doesnât stray from Helsong or their two children, just moving behind them until sheâs close enough to tread along the lakeside, bending down to begin collecting her amo. Thereâs ripples in the water wading from where the twins and Draxâara are skipping their rocks, and she plucks out some flat stones that she spots thatâs directly in the water. Gaining some rocks, something that catches her eye that makes her stop and lose her thought process. At first thinking she sees some pure white rocks residing in the water, the specks of white she sees arenât actually physical, but reflections from the water. In her reflection. Gone are the abysmal orbs given from sheer rage and grief, once more donning the eyes given to her at birth, the moon blessed eyes of a Kaldorei. âJust got ten skips in!â Draxâara calls out, very much on board for their little competition as the twins get their practice in as well. âDarling, are you finding them ok?â Helsong asks from where he sits as she collects rocks, his eyes on Jiroki as their little girls sleep. Jiroki is shocked, pulled out of her thoughts as she hears her family around her. She looks up and to Helsong, then once more back to her reflection. Her eyes are in fact still the same abysmal orbs as they have been for the past few years, ever since she took up arms with her people in mourning for Teldrassil. Still her people mourn to this day, yet with the family sheâs made, the family that keeps growing, all her friends and loved ones sheâs met since losing her first family. After a forest fire growth returns, and peace is relearned. âYea Iâm fine!â
@daily-writing-challenge
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Manager!Seijoh Part 8
a/n: okay so since my halloween special was a flop ill write this instead but uwuwuwuwu its also my birthday today so hehe this is kinda a special request too :D
WAIT YOU GUYS THIS IS TOTALLY IRRELEVANT IF YOURE NOT A POTTERHEAD BUT OMG I SHARE THE SAME BIRTHDAY AS SIRIUS BLACK LIKE WHAT :â) I THINK I SAVED A COUNTRY IN MY PAST LIFE OR SOMETHING :â)
for more seijoh content, check this masterlist out!
anon:
- IF IT WAS YOUR BIRTHDAY! omg :0 i think we can all agree that the ramen shop will get GOOD BUSINESS that day. but it was a total surprise when the upperclassmen basically JUMP you after exiting your last class. vball practice? deliberately cancelled cuz today is YOUR day. kyo leading you, iwa making sure your eyes are closed while oikawa keeps teasing you on how youâre letting a group of men take you BLIND (cue the PUNCH). your smile is worth the XXX amount spent c,:
LOOK HOW CUTE MATTSUHANA ARE IN THIS LIKE OMG ITS LIKE IWAOI SPIRIT SWITCHED W THEIRS AND NOW IWAOI HAVE TO PULL THEM APART INSTEAD OF THE OTHER WAY AROUND
okay yay happy birthday to me uwu
i kinda put this request off since my borfday was right around the corner so hahaha to the anon who requested this, here it is!!!
okay anyways!!!
so today is your borfday
obvs this could be any day lmao it doesnt have to be today but it can be any day just pretend the calendar was different lmao
you were born today and your parents and natsu obvs celebrated it the morning you woke up
like you were peacefully holding your squirtle plushie and snuggling close to get more sleep bc it was still early
but natsu quite literally kicked your door down and your parents walked in with a large cake with candles
STEPBRO WHAT ARE YOU-
okay ill stop now
ofc you were startled bc what the hekÂ
like you were so surprised that you rolled off the bed and landed harshly on the floor
instead of being yanno âyey! its my borfday!â you were like âdear asahi kill meâ
waking you up at the buttcrack of dawn?
lmao 10/10 not recommend
natsu felt really bad and he pulled you up from the floor and situated you back on the bed while your parents backtracked back downstairs
âohmygosh babygirl im so sorry i didnt mean to hulk smash you to the floorâ
im sorry sir what đ
this whore
you waved him off but he still felt guilty so he just pressed kisses to your forehead to soothe it
meanwhile youre just leaning against him, eyes closed, bc you grew up with natsu always doing this whenever you got hurt so it was such a soff moment for you
eventually, he was able to bring you downstairs and your parents were lowkey scared lmao but you smiled at them
âthank you for the cakeâ
they breathed a sigh of relief and you sat down on the chair to eat breakfast
âhere darlingâ
you accepted the bowl of rice from your madre and you ate your birthday breakfast with them while yall are saving the cake for later during dinner
when you finished, you were getting up and shouting up the stairs that you were showering first
hehe natsu was all like âlmao why? its like 4 in the morningâ
you froze, foot hovering over a step and you sighed
âexcuse me what đâ
yea no
you were dragged back to the kitchen and you were all pouty bc duh who the hek wants to wake up that early but your parents saved themselves by giving you your parents early
(literally anything you guys want they gave you okay? but only like 3 lmao not a bajillion things)
you were still grateful for everything and you felt very much appreciated
since it was still early, you just decided to screw it and got ready to go to school early and set up the gym for early morning practice
natsu volunteered to go with you to school but you shook your head
ânah, im okay. the walk is peacefulâ
he huffed, crossing his arms, but nodded anyways
âfine. only because its your birthdayâ
hehehehe the amount of freedom during your day of birth
you were of course the first one in the gym but you didnt mind bc you actually liked the quietness that was so rare inside there
you turned on some (f/m) (lmao favorite/music) and you were sweeping, unknowingly swaying and dancing slightly
at around 5:40, the third years have arrived and since theyre the eldest, they usually get there first
omg the blush explosion on their faces when they saw you twirling around with the mop and ofc oikawa being the little poopie head he is, he swooped in and held your waist
you got startled but seeing the soft brown eyes of your captain made a soft smile appear on your face
âhello, oikawa-sanâ
you whispered and he nuzzled his face to the side of your head softly
âmorning, y/n-chanâ
before he could go on, iwa threw him away behind him and you giggled
mattsun raised an eyebrow at your odd behavior
âhm? why are you so happy today, y/n-chan?â
you stopped then chuckled
ânothing much, mattsun-sanâ
you didnt really want to tell them it was your birthday bc tbh you didnt think it was a big deal or anything
the others werent complaining bc they rarely see you so lively and upbeat and they loved it
you were humming under your breath for gods sake
the other boys have trickled in and again, they also went â?â
your soft smiles, giggles, and joy was everything to themÂ
god bless for this beautiful morning
poor kindaichi cowered in fright as he braced himself for a scolding from you for missing a block but he got even more scared when you just patted his head
âits okay, yuu-kun. thereâs always a next timeâ
yea there was something wrong
unfortunately, school was starting and they werenât able to start questioning you and there aint no way kindaichi and kunimi were going to do that themselves without the upperclassmen who could calm you down if you got too defensive
you were skipping down the hallway and you even looped your arms around your first year friends and they shared a confused look before being dragged by you
during class, darling kunimi was too busy and distracted by your quiet singing of some show that takeru watched when you were over
âKUNIMI-SAN, IS MATH SO BORING THAT YOU FIND INTEREST ON L/N-SAN INSTEAD?â
yes, yes it is
but he didnt say that and instead turned away so fast that you felt the wind beside you
DID A 180 CRAZY~~~
he texted the separate bros group chat about you still being all happy and they were all curious as to what makes you so happy
during lunch time, kindaichi usually went over to go eat with you and kunimi right?
but he was surprised when he just saw kunimi there without you
âwh-â
âi dont knowâ
âwhat do you mean you dont know?!â
nah fam we not dying yet
natsu texted you earlier that he had a bento for you that he made himself and he wanted you to eat it instead of the one your mom made
you were passing by the building entrance door thingy and caught the attention of the third years who were at the rooftop eating their lunch
there was also other students outside and they watched your flowery aura skip over to the equally attractive hiroshi natsu
ây/n-chan~â
he cooed and you smiled up at him
curse him and his tall height
he let you hold the f/c cloth covered box so he could cup your face and kiss over your booboo again
âwo mow, matsu-â
translation: no more, natsu!
you whined as he kept kissing your forehead and you were turning red at the attention from the other students
dang oikawa crushed his juice box at the sight even though he knew natsu was just a cousin
âill save you, y/n-chan!â
he shouted, already flying down the stairs towards you and the other third years after him to keep him from doing something stupid
but they also lowkey wanna see you too
but by the time they reached the entrance, you were already walking away and even passed by the quartet, giving them a close-eyed smile and a cute âhello!â
the 3 were distracted by you and were coddling you while oikawa ran out and shouted after natsuâs retreating form
ânatsu! oi, natsu!â
as if the boy was purposely ignoring him, natsu kept walking forward
âHIROSHI NATSU!â
his scream finally made him turn around and natsuâs face held a teasing smirk
âoya? chibi-chan?â
KDJFSLFDFKDSJKFD YES YOU CALLED?
oikawa huffed and panted as he firmly walked over to natsu
âtell me, hiroshi natsu. why is y/n-chan all cutesy and happy today?â
then the smirk fell, replaced by an actual, genuine annoyed look
âhah?â
oikawa blinked
âwhat do you mean âhahâ?â
natsu waved his hands around in a frenzy of shock
âso you mean to tell me, you, oikawa tooru, the dude who literally woke up the neighborhood at the buttcrack of dawn a few weeks ago, in love with my cousin, doesnât know what today is?â
âwas i supposed to,,,, know?â
KSDLFJSDKFJDS THIS DUDE
natsuâs face became a meme and the guy was so disappointed that he just turned around and continued walking
oikawa gasped and clutched natsuâs arm, begging and pleading to tell him
ofc the little shite natsu is, he smirked down at oikawaâs kneeling form
âhmm, gotta say, chibi-kun. i like this view~â
KDSLFJSDKFJLSDKFJDKS WHOS CHILD ARE YOU, HIROSHI NATSU
âtell me, natsu-chan!â
the puppy eyes of oikawa tooru not only affected girls but also boys fully socked homosexual boys so natsu had to turn away, fighting down a blush
stay loyal to katsuki
stay loyal to katsuki
stay loyal to katsuki
wait, no, probably tetsu
or kenma
or both
or keiji
â-me! natsu-chan!â
that snapped the pink-haired boy out of his thoughts and crossed his arms, glaring down at oikawa
âhm, why do you wanna know so bad? youre on your knees, begging me for information you shouldve already known since you claim to like her so muchâ
oikawa pouted and he sniffled
âi wanna know everything about y/n-chan. i wanna know what today is so i can make her as happy as she is today forever!â
âyoure so cheesyâ
natsu chided and oikawa pouted even harder causing natsu to sigh and pinch his nose
âthe girl was born todayâ
oikawaâs face lit up and he hurriedly stood on his feet, hands on natsuâs biceps since he could barely reach natsuâs shoulders bc of his 6âČ5 height
âits her birthday today?!â
âi literally just said that-â
âoh my gosh! we need to plan something!â
oikawa started but then frowned
âbut weâre in school so it would be too late to do a surprise when we finishâ
his mumblesÂ
filled their vicinity and natsu finally realized where exactly they were so he tugged the still mumbling boy over to the side out of peopleâs view
ohmygosh if i saw 2 handsome, tall, hot boys there, id be staring too omg
âoi, oikawaâ
he still didnt budge until natsu had to kick him at the leg
rip not his knee yall
tooru flinched and hatefully glared at the boy but natsu pointedly glared at him right back
âbefore you start bitching to me, i was just gonna suggest i can help you and your little plan to woo my baby cousinâ
as if he wasnât irritated in the first place, tooru lit up and he excitedly clung onto natsu
âreally? youâll really help me?â
natsu rolled his eyes and tried to pry the brunette off of him but he felt the grip tighten
âlisten, oikawa, as much as i like having pretty boys hang on to me, iâd really appreciate if you just back off a bit and actually understand what im sayingâ
can i just say how long their lunch break is?
and not at natsu trying to get with oikawa and oikawa completely missing it
âyou can go do your education scam system thing while i can go set things up over at that one noodle place she likesâ
natsu explained
oikawa was about to smile until he paused and leaned away
âtheres a catch. i know theres a catchâ
then natsu smirked, confirming oikawaâs suspicion
âill think about what i really want but for now, i just wanna see that one doggie boy you guys have. also, your friend with the big armsâ
lmao imagine the surprise in oikawaâs face
âYOU GO FOR THEM BUT NOT ME?!â
âwhy? you want me to?â
âYES! i mean, well-no but YES!â
â*sigh*â
thats how oikawa ended up telling the boys about the last minute birthday surprise for you and the help from natsu
âyea, apparently its her birthday. also, iwa-chan, kyoken-chan, you need to talk to natsu-chanâ
âhah?! why?!â
âTHAT IDIOT?!â
you were minding your own business during class until you saw kunimi raise his hand
âyes, kunimi-kun?â
âbathroomâ
normally, you wouldve just looked away but you noticed him grab his bag when the teacher wasnât looking which prompted you to sigh since he was skipping class
i mean, whats the point of skipping class when the day is about to be over in like 15 minutes anyways?
âmake sure to come to practiceâ
you whispered when he passed and he smiled, making you raise an eyebrow bc that was a smile you knew that had a hidden meaning behind it
when the bell rang, everyone nyoomed themselves out of there and you were just walking past the door when a body came crashing to you which made you distracted and allowed a chance of vulnerability
there was a pair of hands covered your eyes from behind, hands grabbed your own from in front, and an arm around your waist started to guide you forward
âum, just so you know, i have the power of god, anime, and iwa-san by my side and i wont hesitate to kick you in the di-â
âits so cute when y/n-chan threatens usâ
a voice from in front of you hums and you smiled
âyou wont think im really cute once youre on the floor clutching your di-â
âoi, y/n, ill wash your tongue with soapâ
âyes, iwa-sanâ
you continued to walk, completely trusting at the hands of your boys, when you felt yourself being pulled to turn a corner
âiwa-san? arenât we going to the gym? why are we exiting the gates?â
the boys exchanged a look of amazement at your sense of intuition and the accuracy of your guess despite being deprived of your senses
âdont think you can lie to us, y/n-chan! how could you not tell us its your birthday today?!â
you heard mattsun a few feet in front of you whine and you giggled
âits not importantâ
then kyotani scoffed, you knowing it was him by feeling him twitch by the arm around your waist
âboke, of course its importantâ
âso your punishment for lying to us, weâre kidnapping youâ
makki teased and you rolled your eyes beneath iwaâs hands
âoh, shiver me timbersâ
the walk continued, you still being dragged around, and you heard oikawa laugh
âoh dear, its a sight to see, ainât it? if only you can see the looks people are giving us, y/n-chan~ a group of boys taking a little girl like you? how could you trust us to not do something to you-ACK!â
you cut him off when you lifted your foot to kick right where it hurts the most
forget his weewee
its the knee
poor child crumbled to the floor and had to be picked up by baby watari
âoh wata-cchi, youre the only one who cares about oikawa-san!â
you heavily sighed at the exagerrated theatrics of your captain
âthe one day. the one day when he could be a normal person for onceâ
you grumbled but stopped when you heard iwa laugh by your ear
âheâs right you know. you technically lied to us when we asked if there was something specialâ
you shivered and you leaned your head back
âits okay, iwa-san. we can talk about it after this event. make sure to give me my present, okay?â
SKDLFJSDKFJDSKFLDS GIRL NO I CANT I WANNA JUMP-
but iwa chuckled and he promised you that you would love his present
kyotaniâs arm tightened around you, as if prompting you that he was still there and he wanted your attention too
âcareful there, pupâ
he warned when you almost tripped over air
âhehe, i know ill always be safe when youre next to me, kyo-sanâ
you teased and he was lucky your eyes were covered bc you would see the way his cheeks tinted red
âs-shut up, idiot! maybe i shouldve just let you fall and hit your head! not like its gonna do damage since theres nothing there anyways!â
you just giggled and he retaliated by pinching your waist to which you squealed and gripped his hands
then the smell of the ramen broth entered your nose
âare we-?â
ânope! not there yet, y/n-chan!â
oikawaâs voice made you whine and complain but then he stopped, making everyone else stop too
âokay, iwa-chan, kyoken-chan, release her!â
both grumbled something about you being treated like a pokemon but stopped when your eyes widened and contorted into confusion
âhuh?â
oikawa grinned and your eyes met to see the way his eyes crinkled, a tell-tale sign that this one was a rare genuine smile
âcome on! lets go!â
you let him take you inside the restaurant until your feet stopped, eyes wide when you noticed the streamers and the cake by the corner
your parents stood with natsu by the table and a large smile decorated your face
âyou,, you did this for me?â
you whispered and the team made noises of agreement
âwe had to do something for you to celebrate the day you were born. its a special day because you came into the world and we were able to meet youâ
yahaba grinned and you gave him a big hug but you leaned back a bit so that the others would know youâre talking to them too
âeveryone, thank you. i love youâ
they all scoffed a bit to hide their flustered state but they still smiled and each gave you a hug
âoi! come here and eat the food! oikawaâs paying today!â
natsu shouted, which caught the attention of some customers in the restaurant, but they just ignored it bc theyve seen you and the team so many times that yall practically lived there
âwhat?! i didnt-â
oikawa started but your mother came up to him and clasped her hands to his, sharing the same exact grin you have
âyou must be oikawa tooru. y/n has told me loads about youâ
excuse him while he descends to heaven bc your mother is practically another you
iwa was already acquainted with your dad so they started talking and you just stood back, observing your two families interact with each other
you were so unbelievably happy that it hurts
kindaichi noticed you and he slinked away from the debate between makki and mattsun to go sling an arm around you
âso? what do you think?â
you turned to him with glassy eyes
âim so blessed. so blessed to have these amazing people with meâ
poor babie panicked a bit bc he didnt really know how to comfort a crying girl but he just wrapped his arms around you
âhehe, its kinda the other way around actually. weâre blessed to have someone like youâ
he whispered and you giggled then playfully hit his shoulder
âso cheesy, yuu-kunâ
he leaned away from the hug and gave you an offended look
âbut its true! i dont know what we did to have-â
âY/N-CHAN! NO! HELP!â
oikawa shouted from the other side, cutting off your soft moment with kindaichi
âwhat are you doing, natsu?â
you noticed your cousin wrapping his arms around your captain and trying to drag him away but poor tooru was scrambling to escape
âwe made a deal, didnt we, darling~? i know what i want now and youre going to have to give me youâ
oikawa screamed
a/n: can we please pretend i posted this on november 3? bc i was dumb and forgot to post this and KLDJLSDKFJDSKD IM SO ANGRY but its okay at least i am able to publish this haha
#haikyuu!!#haikyuu#haikyuu imagines#haikyuu!! imagines#haikyuu x reader#haikyuu!! x reader#haikyuu headcanons#haikyuu!! headcanons#aoba johsai#aoba josai x reader#aoba johsai x reader#seijoh#aoba josai#aoba johsai imagines#aoba josai imagines#seijoh imagines#seijoh manager#haikyuu manager#haikyuu!! manager#aoba johsai manager#aoba josai manager#seijoh x reader#aoba johsai headcanons#aoba josai headcanons#seijoh headcanons#haikyuu fluff#haikyuu!! fluff#aoba johsai fluff#aoba josai fluff#seijoh fluff
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Divided by Four: Thirty-Six
 I AM DONE WITH THIS YOU ARE FREE OF HAVING TO SEE IT
Lena Oxton would never have another birthday, and this was an odd thing to think about.Â
It was one thing, for Tracer, to know that she was dying--she had known that for what seemed like an age now--but quite another for her to know that there were some things she would never do again. The early ones, she hadnât known, really. The last time she would get on her motorcycle. When she would last trust herself to fly. That final walk down the hall without help from anyone or anything. These lasts had come without announcing themselves, and so Tracer had not gotten the chance to savor them appropriately. It was a mistake she was trying not to repeat, as she felt the sand slip through the hourglass now.Â
So it was comforting, in a way, to know that this would be her last birthday, even if it felt strange to admit. Tracer had resolved to drink in every instant of it.Â
Sheâd told everyone that it was silly and a little wasteful to bring her gifts, given the reality of the situation, and really all she wanted was to be around her people and drink a beer or two, have a few laughs, and for no one to get too misty-eyed. There were a number of things about dying that Tracer didnât particularly care for, but one topping the list was the way people mourned her before she was gone, when all she wanted to do was enjoy whatever she had left without sadness. There was no point, so she thought, in being so sad over the last bits of something lovely that you ruined it for yourself. It was rather like a child whimpering while eating the last squares of a chocolate bar. So the only gift she had asked for, was for no one to cry in her view, and on that they had delivered.Â
But also, people had brought gifts. Nothing fancy, really, mostly soft pajamas and blankets, a nice lotion, a particularly plush backrest pillow she was already making use of, things that spoke to both the reality of the situation and the inability of the people who loved her to let it pass by without making the most of it. Her uncle had made her a coconut strawberry cream cake, and sheâd even managed to eat some of it. Pharah had made sure to tell her she had better live long enough to use the thick flannel pajamas sheâd bought, as sheâd had her father send them from Canada.Â
âOr youâll do what, exactly?â Tracer had grinned as she said it, âPiss on me grave? Well, Iâm being cremated, so even thatâll feel a bit âollow, now wonât it?âÂ
Everyone had laughed, even Winston, who seemed to taking the whole thing rather hard, however much Tracer joked that heâd been taking care of her for the last ten years and really should enjoy his retirement. But mostly, it had been a good day for her, and if she was feeling a little misty herself, it was nothing but the idea that she was so deeply loved, and that not everyone got to experience that in their lives.
She was born under a lucky star, and the last year or so was only a bump in that road near the end of it, a bit like the jar before you leave the pavement. And even that was only her health, wasnât it?Â
Moira could take her life--and as happy as she was knowing Moira died never knowing how badly she had hurt Tracer, it did sting a bit to know that was how it would go down in the books--but Moira had never managed to take anything more dear to her. Her family. Her friends. The general sense that she was loved and cared for. Even her mind was sharp and busy as ever, which admittedly made her bodyâs disobedience a bit more annoying, but she was grateful to have her wits. People would remember her as herself. That was important.Â
If anything, the relative frustration and pain of the last few months had made her feel all the more loved. Had showed that it must be true.
So nothing was all bad, really.Â
Night had fallen over London, and as tired as she was, Tracer still could not bring herself to go to bed. Winston had asked gently if she was ready, and she had just shook her head and told him she wanted to stay up awhile. It was nice, this deck she and Winston had put together on the roof of the place. Heâd doubted her, when sheâd suggested the project, and wondered how he would ever possibly use it, and told her there was no need to put the work in. Sometimes Winston had to be talked into having nice things for himself. He probably would have approved the project so much earlier if heâd known how much time Tracer would spend up here.Â
The smell of London filled her lungs. She should be more afraid of death, she supposed, but she could never quite let go of the idea that even when she was gone, she wouldnât be. Not that she believed in an afterlife, really, but she also didnât not believe in an afterlife, and sheâd seen London built on its own ashes so many times, that she had to imagine that even when she was gone, the bombed out wall of what was left of her would be built around, become part of a Pret or a pub or even just a ruin where the pigeons nested.Â
What was tough was knowing when the building needed to come down, which she hadnât yet quite figured out for herself. It was one thing to be gone in an instant, a bomb dropped, a moment and then just the rubble. It was another to sway into disrepair, to try and pinpoint the day you had to tell those who had lived in your heart that there were homes elsewhere, and it was time to seek them. When the little joys of being were outweighed by the reality of decay.Â
âLena?âÂ
The lightness she felt at hearing her name in that soft brogue was enough to tell her that day had not yet come, and she would keep on for awhile yet. Tracer thought she might live one hundred years, and never tire of hearing Emilyâs voice. It was impossible.Â
âItâs grown late. Youâll tire yourself.â A kiss on the top of her head, and then Emily sat down on the edge of the daybed where Tracer found herself spending much of her time lately.Â
Tracer chuckled. âToo late. Doesnât take much anymore, itâs just,â she shook her head, âa bit aggravating, right? Thereâs so much Iâd like to do in a day, not that I can do much of it anyway, but Iâd like to at least imagine it. I get frustrated so--âÂ
Emily nodded kindly as she rubbed Tracerâs shoulder, tight with the constancy of spasms that ran through it, but as Tracerâs eyes flicked upwards, she saw the tears on the edge of Emilyâs eyes. Not the time to talk about it. Never seemed to be.
Emily would miss her, and there was no real getting around that, no matter how she tried. Tracer had already spent plenty of time writing and rewriting a letter to be published when she was gone, Pharah sitting alongside her on her small laptop, to try and let Emily know in the most public way that sheâd like her to move on, and wasnât only saying it, that she meant it, nagging over the words until Pharah had offered to remove the burden of waiting for death from her.Â
Pharah joked like that, more than most, because Pharah was kind, in her way, and knew Tracer needed someone to be able to joke with. It was a favor to her. When Tracer had told her, she had asked to be treated the same as ever, and to Pharahâs eternal credit, she came very close.Â
âNever mind me.â she grinned âTired and rambling, right? It was a wonderful birthday, Em. Marvelous, really. Been thinking back on me birthdays---Iâve been so lucky. I am so lucky. Thank you, for everything youâve done, for it.âÂ
She was tired, and her body jerked and shook, but she was still, in this moment, the master of a failing plane, and managed to but her hand on Emilyâs leg. Emily curled up next to her and rested her head on Tracerâs shoulder, letting out a little sniffle as she drew her arm around her.
âItâs not fair for you.âÂ
âMe?â Tracer kissed her forehead âOh, none of that now. Not for me. Whatâs fair, anyâow? Should âave been killed a thousand times over, love, but I wasnât, Was I? Plenty were,â she muttered, half to herself, âAnd I noone in whole of me life âas ever wanted to âear it but Iâve âad the sense for years that I wasnât precisely meant to get me pension. Call it a self-fulfilling prophecy if you like but I--really, who it isnât fair to is you. Lifeâs been more than fair to me.âÂ
Emily said nothing, but wiped her eyes and took Tracerâs hand in hers.Â
âI mean really, think about it. Not a bad life at all, on balance. Pilot. Top Flight Instructor. Commander. Bloody âero of London. I lived more in thirty-six years than most people would if they âad twice the time. So itâs all right. I made it all count. Course I want more, but, I do tend to rush through things, donât I? Just me way, donât stop to admire the view much. Some people are like that, like fireworks, or, oh I donât know, a stick of gum. And,and at the fag end of it all, I get to be in London, taken care of instead of sent away, when by rights I should have been shot down, or shot through, or lost forever. To be sitting on a London roof in a pile of pillows? Not precisely the gulag, love, and I wonât be greedy. Em, look at me, please.âÂ
Emily sat up and looked at her, and Tracer squeezed her hand.Â
âI lived long enough to find you, and to love you.Thatâs all that matters. I âave led a bloody charmed life. I âave. Truly. I could not possibly ask for more.â she grinned, âThatâs a lie actually, would âave loved to get all the way through to the King so as I could watch his bloody face when I refused the knighthood publicly, but,â she chuckled, âWe canât âave everything.âÂ
Emily gave a little chuckle and shook her head. âYouâre awful, Lena. Happy Birthday. My prince charming.âÂ
âAnd it really was, Em. It is! What do you say,â she winced as she tried to sit up a little, her body jerking her back against the back of the daybed, until Emily balanced her, âWhat do you say, we âave Win come up with that last bottle of champagne? Toast to ourselves till midnight? Just the three of us?âÂ
Emily nodded, the teeth poking thought on her smile.Â
âThatâs what Iâd like to see, tonight. Thank you love. Just us three, and your smile.âÂ
The clouds and fog and too much light of London parted for a moment, just a few stars peeking through the grey and haze. They sparkled down on Tracer, who sparkled back a bit, the diamonds of the natural world. Bright against the night.Â
Bit of light in everything.
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Day 1 - Timâs Birthday
âTim, can you go grab me the bandages?â
âYeah, sure B.â
Listen, Tim was glad that Damian was back safe. He was glad they had found the boy before he had gotten any worse injuries(though how he could be in worse shape then heâs in right now, Tim wasnât sure). He may not get along with Damian the best, but he was still the kids brother, in their own fucked up way.
So he was trying to not feel too upset about it.
Itâs not like his birthday was an important thing that he waited for every year. Itâs fine.
Besides, birthdays hadnât even been that big of a thing until he came to Bruceâs. Maybe he had cake or something on his birthday, or if his parents were home they might go out to dinner. But itâs not like he had huge birthday parties or anything. So why was this such a big deal? It was fine. It was more important that Damian was home safe. Right?
Itâs not like this was his 17th birthday, and he had been hoping it would be a little more special. It wasnât like this was his 17th birthday, and he had been planning to tell Bruce about his boyfriends.
Heâd survive.
He helped Bruce rebandage Damianâs chest, the kid still mostly in a coma, he woke up occasionally, but was never fully lucid, just mumbled different things and was able to relay where he was in the most pain.
He didnât know why he was hoping that Bruce would bring it up, but it became clear he had forgotten when after, he just thanked Tim, kissed him on the forehead and then sat down beside Damian with a laptop.
Tim sighed softly and called a soft goodnight, turning to walk back upstairs, ready to crash after a long night of patrols and a disappointing evening.
So thatâs just what he did. He took a shower and then collapsed into bed in a t-shirt that was more than likely Konâs. It still smelled like him too, so who was Tim to complain. He just curled sprawled out under the bright yellow poofy duvet Bart had dumped into his room one day and refused to take home, one of the only splashes of color in the fairly dull, impersonal room.
He tossed and turned for a while before fully passing out, letting himself slip into dark night terrors with no plot or escape.
Just another night sleeping for Tim Drake.
He was in for quite a surprise when he woke up.
Well, not quite as much of a surprise as the person he ended up flipping off the side of his bed, but honestly what did they expect from him? He was highly sensitive, even in his sleep.
The squeal and solid thump got him to wake the rest of the way up, and he sat up, looking down at the floor beside his bed to find a figure sprawled on the floor, looking up at the ceiling.
âOw!â they complained.
âBart?!â
The teen grinned at him, sitting up.
âHi babe.â
âOh my god, Iâm so sorry!â
Bart just hopped up and immediately launched himself on top of Tim, knocking him back down to the bed with a grunt.
âWhat are you doing here?â Tim groaned as Bart shifted to get comfortable, lying on top of him.
âWell, we wanted to surprise you, but Kon had to stop and help some people along the way so I was supposed to come ahead and make sure you stayed in bed,â they responded, chin on Timâs chest.
âSurprise me?â
Tim easily rolled Bart under him, ruining the otherâs work to getting comfortable on top of him.
âYeah!â Bart just grinned at him, reaching up to put their arms around Timâs neck.
âWhy?â
Another grin was his answer, as well as a soft kiss. Tim just rolled his eyes and accepted this, giving Bart a few soft kisses before falling sideways and reaching for his phone. Bart immediately cuddled up to his back, forehead against his spine. Tim didnât fight it, just opened his phone and suddenly realized why Bart wanted to surprise him, when he found texts from some of his friends, wishing him a Happy Birthday. He smiled softly, quickly texting them back and setting his phone down, just as the window popped open on its own. Both sat up to look at it, and watched as one Superboy tumbled through the window, or well, former Superboy. He looked up and found them watching, and gave a sheepish grin, quickly latching the window behind him before kicking off his boots. Tim watched as he walked over, dumping off unnecessary parts of his uniform as he walked, then slipping into the bed next to them, hovering over Tim slightly.
âHappy Birthday, beautiful,â he murmured softly before kissing him.
Tim just relaxed into it, grinning slightly. Then he pushed Kon away, wrinkling his nose.
âYou smell like soot.â
âYeah, sorry. There was this really big fire and I stopped to help.â
âI told you,â Bart murmured sleepily.
They both chuckled at them, and then Kon looked back at Tim.
âGot any birthday wishes, birthday boy?â
Tim frowned, glancing away as the memory of what was happening with his family came back to the front of his mind.
âEh, not really?â
âHeâs lying,â Bart inputted, rolling so they were pushed up on one elbow, looking over at Tim with a raised eyebrow.
âOf course heâs lying, but if he really ainât gonna tell us, weâll just have to take matters into our own hands.â
Tim rolled his eyes at Kon, pushing at him.
âGet up, ya big oaf. I know itâs noon, but some of us have to eat breakfast yet.â
âCan we get second breakfast, then?â
Tim laughed, looking over at the speedster.
âYes, you can get second breakfast.â
Bart cheered for joy, jumping up and zipping to Timâs closet. They returned within seconds with a pair of black shorts and a short sleeve black striped button up.
âCome on, get dressed,â Bart urged, holding the clothes out. âOr Iâll do it for you. . . Actually maybe I should do it anyway, thatâd be a lot faster-â
âBart, calm down and come here,â Kon said with a laugh, grabbing Bart with his TTK and pulling them over to sit in his lap.
The two patiently waited - as patient as those two get, anyway - while Tim changed, a little stiff from sleep still. Once he was dressed and had fussed with his hair a bit to soothe down the tangles and cowlicks, he turned to them. Kon gave a little wolf whistle, grinning from where he had his chin on Bartâs shoulder.
âHmm, handsome as ever.â
âThanks. Now letâs go get food before Bart withers away and dies.â
Bart cheered and jumped up, scooping Tim up easily and rushing out his bedroom door. But instead of taking him to the kitchen like usual, he went straight to the dining room and plopped Tim down in his usual seat.
Except the dining room was completely black, only the slight spark shower lighting it up.
âBart?â Tim asked, glancing behind him to where the speedster had already disappeared through the kitchen room. âYou couldâve at least turned on the lights beforehand.â
Tim had no sooner started to stand then the door flew open and the lights flicked on. Tim flinched away from the brightness, then focused on the door, finding a couple people trailing through it in a procession, carrying trays and things. Bruce, Alfred, Dick, Bart and Kon, hell even Steph was there.
âHappy birthday, my dear boy,â Alfred announced, setting down a cup of coffee in front of Tim.
âOh,â Tim said softly, glancing down at the cup then up at Alfred.
Trays of breakfast foods were set down on the table, each person coming by to wish Tim a happy birthday, ruffling his hair or hugging him or something. Bart and Kon sat on either side of him, Dick and Steph on the other side of the table, Bruce at the end, and Alfred right next to him.
Tim wasnât tearing up. No. Not at all. It was fine. He was fine .
Kon leaned over, nudging him slightly.
âI may have lied about the fire,â Kon said with a small grin. âWell, no, there was a fire, it was just like, an hour previously, and I was just helping Alfred cook.â
âHe actually got here before me,â Bart confirmed, tapping Timâs leg with their foot.
âGuys,â he breathed out, reaching up and rubbing his eyes.
âTim,â Bruce said softly, pulling his attention. âIâm sorry if we made you think weâd forgotten about your birthday.â
âIssokay,â Tim mumbled. âDami was hurt.â
âItâs not okay, and I promise you we didnât forget,â Bruce told him, offering a smile.
âThanks, Bruce.â
They started eating together, and Tim allowed himself to smile freely as he listened to his boyfriends and family chatting together.
Oh yeah. Bruce didnât know.
âHey, Bruce?â Tim called slightly, feeling his heart leap into his throat the moment he had spoken.
âYeah, Tim?â
âI- I have something I wanted to tell you.â
âGo ahead.â
âIâm . . . Iâm dating Kon and Bart.â
Bruce glanced up from his pancakes, then looked between the three of them. He smiled.
âCongratulations.â
âI knew it!â Dick exclaimed from the other side of the table, looking absolutely joyful with this news.
Tim just groaned and realized his mistake of telling Bruce in front of everyone. Or well. . . just Dick. Steph already knew.
After their brunch - for thatâs what it was - Tim found himself being dragged out of the house by his boyfriends.
âGuys, where are we going?â
âBirthday shopping! Come on!â
âWhy do we need to go birthday shopping?â
âBecause itâs your birthday and we want to spoil you!â
âDid you two forget that Iâm the billionaire here, or?â
Kon just scoffed and shook his head. âI get money from Lex, and you know that.â
âCome on, Tim,â Bart said, with one of their powerful Puppy Dog Pouts. âJust let us take care of you today.â
Tim chuckled and shook his head and let them through the garage to his car.
âFine, come on you dorks. But Iâm driving.â
They both cheered and ran to the car.
After an afternoon of shopping and hanging out and eating sweets, and a nice dinner with the family again, Tim found himself at the front door, saying goodbye to his boyfriends before he had to go off to patrol.
âThank you guys, so much, for coming,â Tim said with a smile, stepping forwards and kissing Kon, then Bart.
âYeah! We just wanted to make your birthday just a lil bit better.â
Tim chuckled and shook his head, giving Bart another kiss.
âI love you, Bart Allen.â
âI love you too, Tim Drake-Wayne,â they responded happily, stealing one last kiss before stepping back and letting Tim turn to Kon.
âAnd I love you, Conner Kent.â
Conner just chuckled, pulling Tim in close, kissing him for a little longer then he had been allowed previously.
âI love you, Tim,â he practically whispered.
Then he stepped back, gave Tim a wink and started hovering.
âSee ya around, birdie.â He saluted and shot off.
âBye, Tim!â Bart called and also disappeared into the night.
Tim just smiled to himself and turned, walking inside again.
Yeah, that had been a good birthday.
@core-disaster-week-2020
#timkonbart week#core disaster week#timkonbart#core disaster#tim's birthday#tims birthday#tim drake#tim drake birthday#Bart Allen#conner kent#kon el kent#superboy#Robin#red robin#impulse#queerbutstillhere writes#queerbutstillhere
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Wynneâs Birthday Diary - Lunie Laurenze
"I really hope they make it here on time. But the chances seem to be so thin of them even arriving considering our relationship is...... convoluted" I sighed, placing the cookies inside. I was really regretting why did I even plan this for her. And why am I stressing out so much because of it. All of this was fucking frustrating and tiring to me.
"Chillax, Winnie. Lunie will definitely come. Her sister promised me that" The brown haired man propped his legs on the table in front of him and relaxingly leaned behind the couch.
I sighed, turning to the laid-back person with crossed arms. "Lunie can force her mind onto Ink very easily. Sad thing is that even after you literally bribed Ink with shiny sparkling feathers to bring her sister here, who knows if she would succeed" I coolly replied.
"You.....You saw that?!!" Nathan (@utopia-t) stiffened, and there was a pink tint on his umber cheeks.
"Yes I did. Very disgusting of you to greed a child like that" I teased him, a smirk on my lips. Nathan turned even more pink by my mockery, but then he scrunched his nose and growled and slammed his fist on my poor couch.
"Hey! First of all, I am older than you. I know what is right and what is wrong more than you. And two, bribing is not wrong. It's just like business. You just get extra good stuff out of them just like that. And Ink surely deserves some spoiling" he defended himself.
I chuckled and went over him to sit beside him, patting his shoulder. "Relax, Dear. Of course there is nothing wrong in spoiling kids over good jobs done. Just don't make it so frequent. You would then owe them a lot that you won't be able to even repay".
"Ugh jeez Wynne. Of course I know my limits. I practically raised two kids by myself, come on!!" He threw his hands while I rolled my eyes.
"Right right. And also let one of them almost choke in the quicksand" I smirked at him even more, and just like I expected, Nathan turned even more pink and speechless. I then started laughing heartily and wipe the tears of joy from the corner of my eyes.
"Stop, Damnit. Stop teasing me" he snarled. He has his fist balled up again and I could see his veins pulsating in his arm. Though it was far from scaring me, I obliged to his request.
"There there, calm your nerves down. We don't want you smashing my lovely table on someone's birthday, you know" With a wide threatening smile I rubbed his shoulders.
"Tch whatever, Woman" he punched my shoulder lightly, earning a laugh from me. Salette was really lucky to have a brother whom you can tease 24/7 but won't lift a finger on you. The only difference is that I on the other side was in a bit danger, but that's alright. It's not that I am scared of his mindless threats. Also I heard that he likes to charm women?? Hmmm....how am I not surprised haha!!
"Ugh you should be lucky that you are cute. Otherwise I would not have hesitated to destroy your fancy expensive house" Nathan huffed. I raised my eyebrow, glancing at him as he rested his head on the couch and behind his arms.
"Pardon me. Cute???" I asked from minor bewilderment.
"Ummm yeah. That's what I said" he replied.
I stayed silent, still not opening my mouth. Nathan clearly noticed it as he clicked his tongue, annoyed.
"Oh come on. You heard me nicely. You have clear ears" he elaborated. But still that didn't solve my problem.
Nathan then being the stubborn impatient kind grabbed my shoulders and pulled me closer to him. My hands landed on his chest with a thud and my eyes jerked up, a gasp escaped my lips.
"So you don't believe me huh, Blueberry?" His crimson eyes looked directly into mine. Oh no.........
"E-Excuse me?? But what do I have to believe??" The confusion was still on my face. But then it all got sorted when he lifted my chin up, our noses touching and our lips just inches away.
"Want me to tell you?" His whisper, huskily reached my ears. This just made me even more nervous than before.
I gulped, adjusting my position, but he was holding onto me by my waist now. He had a stern grip. It seemed impossible to withdraw.
Nathan closed up to me, our lips were almost going to meet. I wasn't ready for it, but didn't hesitate to close my eyes as well and brace for the kiss. The tension was hot, it was hitting my skin and arousing goosebumps on me. Nathan looked like it wasn't affecting him, because of how he still had his hold on me and his hands weren't shaking like mine.
I was not scared, I was rather bubbling from anticipation of what would Nathan do, but my expectations were destroyed when we were interrupted by the tingling classic London chime.
Of the doorbell.
"Oh fucking goddamnit!!" Nathan cursed, letting go of me and slumping back on the couch. While I just blinked twice, trying to get my system back, and then got up to walk to the door.
"Excuse me Dear" I simply sighed. Poor Nathan. I actually felt bad for him. I promise to compensate his disappointment later.
But nonetheless, I opened the door, and being half-surprised to look at the visitor, I greeted both of them.
"Well Good Evening Ink, Lunie" I said. Lunie (@boiling-potato), as usual, dismissed my salutation and looked away with a 'hmph', but her sister on the other hand, happily returned the hello.
"Good Evening Wynne! It's really good to see you. And you are looking really nice today ^w^" said said. This lit up a smile, as I let both of them com inside my house.
"Why thank you Dear. It's lovely to hear from you too" I grinned back, closing the door. Hmmm....it was kind of warm outside. Maybe due to spring change.
"So....why are we here again??" Lunie crossed her arms and looked around. She sounded as if she was forced to arrive here. Nothing out of unusual at all, actually.
"We are here to celebrate your birthday, Lunie! Wynne and Nathan organised it for you ĂwĂ" Ink replied. Lunie was unamused, as she just sat on one of the couches and kept her head on her hand, disinterested.
"Whatever" she said. I didn't even care actually, because I had already given up and tired. Jeez, edgy kids these days.
But suddenly Nathan appeared behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders. He had a bright smile on his face.
"Hey come on now. It's your birthday! Birthdays are nice! You get to party, have fun with friends, get drunk and might even find a nice boy to-"
Before he could even say anything further, I slapped his mouth shut. Seriously this man bitch doesn't even know how to talk to children sometimes. Ugh Stupid Human.
"And do what?? What do we do with a nice boy OwO?" The ravenette asked. Oh shit, here we go again. Come on Wynne, think of something.
"W-We just greet him a good night, that's all haha!" I smiled at her, but on the inside was boiling from pique.
"Oh! Ok! ^w^" Ink thankfully didn't question it further and settled down. I then let Nathan go, glaring at him for a second, before I went to the kitchen to get the cake. I knew Lunie didn't want to stay here much because of how much we both pissed each other, so I wanted this to get over with quick.
Meanwhile I kept hearing Nathan talking with both Lunie and Ink. He kept entertaining them with chats and jokes, and was doing surprisingly well. That was good. Looks like it was a nice idea to bring him over. Otherwise it would have been pretty awkward if I was by myself.
"What's a cat's favourite colour??"
"What? -_-"
"Ooooooh what OwO??"
"Purr-ple!!"
"àČ°_àČ°"
"HAHAHAHAHAHHAA nice one, Nathan (â§âœâŠ)"
Hah......dorks...................
Soon the cake was brought on the table, and the birthday girl was settled right in front of the spongy dessert. The cake had the flavour of chocolate cookies and sugary cream, and it was adorned with dark chocolate musical notes. The cake was white and dark brown, and it had seventeen blue candles on it.
"........The cake looks good" For the first time I heard Lunie saying one positive thing for the whole day. It brightened my mood quite a lot, and so with Nathan. Since we both were the ones who made the cake, and our star for tonight was satisfied. And nothing else could have fulfilled us more.
"We are glad you liked it" I replied. "Thanks Lunie! I hope you would love how it tastes too!!" Nathan beamed. Ink was amazed by the cake, her eyes were literally sparkling. It was adorable to watch. Lunie just nodded to us, as she closed her eyes next, ready to make her wish.
"Let's get this over with" and then she blew the candles.
Happy birthday to you~
Happy birthday to you~
Happy birthday Dear Lunie~
Happy birthday to you đđđđđ~
The cake was cut, and was shared. We all enjoyed the dessert. It was pleasantly sweet, not too sugary and not too bland. It was perfect with the soft cream and cookie crunch.
Ink was the happiest one among us all. No surprise again. She loved the cake and the other food me and Nathan had prepared. And she had a lot of fun during games and the present time.
And speaking about presents, Nathan gifted Lunie a recipe book of making different types of desserts. So that she could be self-reliant and learn how to bake what she loves. I actually knew the book, because my father used to have it. Obviously he never followed it, and even if he did, something always went wrong. Lunie seemed pleased though, and that's all that mattered.
At last it was my turn to gift her. And for my part I had given her a navy blue oversized shirt with white musical notes. Come on. Fashion is how I roll, and considering Lunie loved baggy clothing, I had to create one for her with every love I can put into it. And to be candid, I had much delectation with weaving every fibre of it, and truly hoped that she would love to wear it once.
Lunie might be unnecessarily audacious, however she was still relatable to me because she somewhat felt like myself. Those broody eyes, that lethargic expression, the introverted testy approach, reminded me of me. All I had to say was, Lunie is like my sister too. No matter how much we hated each other's guts.
But the most surprising thing for today was how Lunie actually enjoyed the occasion. She said that it wasn't too loud or crowded, and it was rather diverting and a nice distraction from annoyance. This was of course a compliment, even though Nathan didn't look really satisfied by it haha!
But I had fun. And so did the others. The rest of the night went well, with all of us chilling and talking about the early days and future nights. At the very present. All of it together.
#the arcana#the arcana game#fan apprentice#wynne toprak#arcana mc#arcana apprentice#arcana oc#ink#lunie#lunie laurenze#đ„#nathan dahab#what I wrote
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Canât Go Back Part 11
A/N: Next chapter is here. This one has some angst. I expected dinner to go longer but the angst felt like it needed to take precedent. There is a slight time jump about half way through the chapter. Feedback is always appreciated! Â Trigger warning alcohol abuse. implied drunk driving.Â
I was up early again the next morning to start getting things ready for dinner. The counter quickly became a picture of organized chaos. I had ingredients for dessert out on the island, waiting to be made into my mumâs favourite cake. Monty woke up a while later and after a cup of coffee, was ready to help me cook. âMorning love.â I greeted after he finished his coffee.
âMorning you.â He kissed my forehead softly. âWhat do you need help with first?â
âCan you grab the mushrooms and plastic wrap please? Iâm getting ready to start heating the pan for the meat up now.â
âSure thing. What am I doing with them?â
âBlitzing them.â I stated. Looking up from my cake recipe, I bit my lip to hold back a laugh. He looks so confused. Itâs adorable.
âWhat now? Also donât do that.â
âBlitzing them. In the food processor until theyâre chopped small. Donât do what?â I asked, coyly, pushing his very pushable buttons.
âYou know exactly what. Donât think Iâm not taking note of all these tests missy. Itâs going to be a very long day for you in a few weeks.â
âOh Iâm counting on you noting.â I muttered under my breath. He growled lowly and I whimpered. âMushrooms mister. Thatâs what you need to be concerned with. Not sex.â
âThe mushrooms can wait a few minutes.â
âWe canât have sex and Iâm not giving you a blowjob in the kitchen.â I told him as I moved to the stove to turn on the heat.
âI didnât say anything about blowjobs or the kitchen Addison.â
I paused. Insufferable. âYou are such a little shit. Sit down and blitz my mushrooms.â
âYes Maâam.â
âDonât ever call me that again. Itâs too domme-y for me.â
Monty laughed and muttered a retort under his breath. Ignoring his sexual comment and the ever-present sexual tension, I set about getting the cake batter ready.
While the cake was in the oven, I set about searing the meat and getting the prosciutto ready for wrapping. I could feel Montyâs eyes on me as I worked. He gave me the bowl of the food processor and I dumped them into a dry pan, as per the recipe instructions. The meat was seared off and resting on a plate. Everything was going according to plan. I had Monty slather the tenderloin in mustard and wrap it tightly again. âNow it sits in the fridge for a while.â
âI can think of many things we can do to occupy our time.â He smirked, cheekily at me.
âMontgomery. No.â
âOkay, okay. Canât blame a guy for trying.â I grinned at him and walked around the island, over to the laundry closet.
âYou can help me fold laundry instead.â
âOh joy.â He rolled his eyes playfully. I giggled at him and he smiled. Together, we went about folding the laundry on our bed and organizing it into the appropriate drawers. He made the odd lude comment on my underwear and I simply shook my head. My man and his one-track mind.
Once the laundry was folded, we set the table and got a few more dinner elements ready to be cooked. Mom loves mashed garlic potatoes, so I tossed some garlic in oil and roasted it. Soon, the whole house smelled like the sweet aroma of roasted garlic. I had Monty man the vegetables while I went and changed into my red sweater dress. He changed into a dressier flannel and crisp white t-shirt. How can one man make white look so nice? We spent the rest of the day taking care of minor household things and enjoying each otherâs company.
My parents arrived at five, with salad in hand. Dad must have told her we were having food. âHey Mum, hey Dad.â I called from my place at the island. I lit a cinnamon candle a few minutes ago to cover the garlic smell.
âHi sweetie. Whereâs my favourite son-in-law?â Mom joked.
âRight here. Hi Margot. Happy birthday.â Monty greeted her, exiting our room and balancing his crutches to hug her. âHey Brooks.â He greeted my dad.
âHey Monty. Â Howâs the leg feeling? Hey Addy.â My dad asked, hanging up their coats before walking over and giving me a side hug. It was still kind of awkward for my dad to hug me, but I smiled and hugged him back.
âMeh. Itâs feeling okay. The pain comes and goes.â
âIt feels better when he actually uses his crutches and rests.â I teased playfully.
âYes dear.â He shot back. I shook my head, smiling, and got the waiting wellington out of the fridge. The oven beeped as I closed the door and put it in.
âHappy birthday mom.â
âThank you. It smells delicious.â
âBeef wellington and garlic mashed potatoes with steamed assorted carrots.â
âMy favourite.â She smiled.
âBabe would you mind filling a pot with water for the potatoes?â
âSure.â I nodded and went about peeling the potatoes. âSalt?â
âYes please. Oh, and Justin says happy birthday too mom.â
âTell him thank you for me.â
âI will.â
The four of us spent the half hour while dinner cooked and rested, chatting about our weeks. Dinner was fairly uneventful, but delicious. Mum loved her new pumpkin vanilla candle and chocolate strawberry tea. Dad and I continued to try and navigate our new relationship. All in all, it was a nice way to end a weekend.
A couple of weeks later, Montgomery was given the all clear to begin physio by Dr. Marcus. Thankfully for both of us, that also meant he was cleared to begin to foray back into âphysical intimacyâ. Nothing too crazy yet. Yeah right. Thatâll last maybe one round. It seemed that he was more excited to get to drive home than to have sex for the first time in weeks. In addition to sex, he was also able to give up the crutches for the most part. It was only if there was a particularly intense physio session, he would use them. He still wasnât cleared to play sports, nor would he be for quite some time.
Even with not being able to actually play ball, being one step closer to that goal, seemed to help bring him back to normal a bit. Everything was going great for a week or two. He would go to physio three times a week and do his assigned exercises without complaint. He made sure not to push himself too hard. He didnât stay out very late on game nights, and when he did, he would call or text me to let me know he was okay and on his way home.
I woke up to the sound of something crashing to the floor. In my half-sleeping state, I reached out to Montgomeryâs side of the bed and found it cold. Feeling my nerves grow at being alone in the house, I checked the alarm clock beside the bed. 2:24am. I gulped and got out of bed, grabbing one of Montyâs sweaters to wear and the baseball bat he kept next to the dresser. Iâll never give him crap for keeping a bat next to the bed again.
Walking out of our room, I turned a corner and heard a very familiar voice. Monty was standing in the living room, muttering curse words to himself. I lowered the bat and turned on the lamp, causing him to jump, trying to hide what he had broken behind him. I could tell he was wasted just by looking at him. He had to hold on to the wall to keep himself upright. I set my face stoically and stared at him for a moment. It was then that I saw what he had broken. It was the framed photo on our side table, of us on our wedding day. Now Iâm a little more upset. âItâs 2:30 in the morning.â I stated with my arms folded at my chest. He didnât respond. Instead, he looked at me with an odd mixture of surprise and guilt. I shook my head and pivoted around to go back to bed, but not before firmly shutting the bedroom door.
The next morning, I woke up and got ready as usual. I walked out to the kitchen and did a double take at what I was witnessing. Shockingly, Monty was up and dressed in clean clothes already. He even had a cup of coffee to drink. I didnât hear him come in our room. âMorning.â He said, from his seat at the table. He didnât appear to be nursing that bad of a hangover, shockingly. Still mad, I ignored him, making myself a cup of coffee and getting my bag together for school. I didnât spare the side table a glance, knowing that if I did, I would snap. His eyes followed my every move, probably internally begging me to speak to him.
âIâm meeting with my English teacher before class so Iâm leaving now.â was all I said to him before I left the house.
I left the meeting with Mr. Luft about a recommendation letter in better spirits than when I left the house. It was a short-lived feeling because I spotted Monty brooding from across the hall. I knew he was waiting for me because he had neither a locker nor a class in this building at this time. My anger came back in full force when I saw him. Adjusting my bag on my shoulder, I walked straight past him. He followed close behind, hot on my heels. âAddy can we please talk about this?â I didnât respond. He sighed gruffly, âcan you say anything at all to me?â I rolled my eyes even though he couldnât see my face. When we were away from students, in a less crowded area of the building, he tried again. âAddison, please?â
âIâm not fighting with you in public.â I told him, not turning around.
âWe donât have to fight in public. Will you please just say something about what happened? Are you really this upset about the fact that I broke a picture frame?â Upset that he⊠seriously? Thatâs what he thinks this is about? I mean, Iâm upset that its broken, but it can be replaced. Iâm upset because he came home drunk⊠again. Iâm upset because he didnât even text me to let me know he wasnât coming home for a while, if it all. Iâm not upset because of a goddamn picture frame.
âDonât bother coming home tonight.â I ground out before walking away.
My friends were surprised when I walked over to their table at lunch and put my bag down, rather aggressively. âHey Addy.â Tony greeted.
âHey.â I replied, trying to keep the shortness out of my tone.
âHowâre you?â Alex asked, digging around in his lunch bag.
âFine. But letâs not talk about me. How are you guys?â
âRight. Fine. Uh⊠Iâm good.â Justin said, giving me a cursory glance.
âIâm good too. Justin learned not to throw food at me in bed this morning.â Clay added.
âJustin donât throw food at your brother. Itâs rude.â I told him, shaking my head.
âOr keep doing it so we can give Clay a hard time about it, your choice.â Alex laughed. We carried on for a while, my friends bringing a smile and some light to what had started as a very gloomy day. The light shifted again when Scott approached our table.
âAddison, can we talk for a minute?â
âAbout?â I asked casually, as I dipped my cucumber in salsa.
âWhy Monty is eating fruit snacks, fruit snacks, and sadness for lunch?â
âI had a meeting this morning.â
âOkay. What about the fact that he said you told him not to come home tonight?â he implored. My friends froze.
âYes.â I stated.
âWhy?â
âI donât want to discuss it with you. Itâs our business.â
âAddy. Heâs my best friend and he is upset. It is my business.â
âWhat happened Addison?â Justin asked, reaching across the table for my hand.
âI donât want to talk about it.â I muttered, feeling like I was being backed into a corner and struggling to find my way out. I pulled my hand out of Justinâs reach. Heâs the one who screwed up here. Not me. Stop making me feel like garbage for needing some space for one day. Scott shook his head, in disbelief.
âWell youâre going to have to talk to him. Youâre stuck together now. Or did you forget about the whole âbetter or worseâ part of your vows?â
That got my anger going again. âI am not discussing my marriage with you Scott Reed. Especially not in a room full of people who are just counting the days until we decide we made a mistake and file for divorce. This is an issue between my husband and me. Not my husband, me, and my husbandâs best friend. And never insinuate that I do not take my vows seriously again.â I whisper-yelled, standing to walk away. Justin stood up too.
âI just want to help. Heâs my best friend and youâre my friend.â
âYou can help by giving him a place to crash tonight.â I said, walking away.
Justin followed behind me with my bag, which I left at the table in my haste to get away from the situation. He pulled me into an empty classroom, and I felt hot, angry, sad tears fill my eyes.
âWhat happened Addy?â
I tried to respond but all that would come out were gasps and squeaks. Justin pulled me into his arms and embraced me while I cried in his chest. The frustration of the last thirteen hours had finally reared its head and I couldnât stop the floodgates from opening. A knock on the door made me remember where we were, and I stepped away from my best friend. Scott opened the door a bit and poked his head in the room.
âCan we talk about this now?â
I didnât respond but Justin waved him in the room and motioned for him to shut the door. We stared at each other for a solid three minutes before I spoke, âI told you Iâm not discussing my marriage with you Scott.â
âIf he is going to spend the night in my parentsâ guest room, I think I deserve to know what actually happened to cause it.â
âWhat did he tell you?â I asked, sighing.
âThat he broke the picture from your wedding last night. But you wouldnât be this mad about a picture frame, so there has to be more to the story.â
I laughed humourlessly. âYeah. Try âbroke it this morningâ when he came home at 2:30 so wasted he could barely hold himself up. And couldnât call or send me a fucking text message that he would be out late. I was up until 12:30 worrying about him, when I couldnât keep my eyes open anymore.â The boys gaped at me. âLeft that part out, did he?â
âUh⊠yeah. He did.â Scott paused briefly. âI thought you guys talked about the occasionally overdrinking. And it was basically a non-issue now.â
âIt was until last night.â
âDo you want me to talk to him?â Justin offered. âFrom what youâve said I donât think heâs an alcoholic by any means, and NA is different than AA, but the basics are the same.â
âI donât know. I think I need to talk to him first and see if he will tell me whatâs going on. This canât become a thing.â
âA thing?â Scott asked.
âWhat is the one thing Monty is afraid of aside from me leaving him?â
Scott thought for a moment. âBecoming his da-. Oh. Yeah that canât happen.â
âExactly. So, I will talk to him tomorrow about it when he comes home. In the meantime, try to keep him occupied please? I donât need him spiralling and making things worse.â
âI will. Might have to give him hell first though.â
âOkay. As his wife, I give you permission to do that.â He hugged me before leaving Justin and I on our own.
âDo you want me to come over tonight to keep you company? We can watch stupid movies.â
âNah, itâs okay. I think I need to be alone to think for a while.â I hugged him, âthank you. Iâll text you or call you if I need you.â
âYouâre welcome. If you need me to come over, I will. Just say the word.â I nodded as I pulled out my compact. My makeup didnât look too bad considering I had cried. Taking out a tissue, I wiped underneath my eyes and touched up a little bit. Just as I finished, the bell rang.
Coming home to an empty house wasnât unusual, what with Montyâs sports schedule and other things in our lives, but there was something different about this time. I told him not to be here. I didnât want him here. He wasnât in our home because of me. For some reason, that made the house feel a little colder and a little less like home tonight. âWell, I guess I should make myself some food or something.â I muttered into the quiet house. Working quickly, I whipped up a pita pizza and some veggies, before opening up my laptop to work on some more essays.
A few long, lonely hours later, I turned off my computer and went to change. Unconsciously, I went into Montyâs dresser and grabbed a shirt to sleep in, along with a pair of my softer pyjama bottoms. Curling up in my spot on the couch, I turned on the tv and checked my phone. Justin texted me about an hour ago, as had Scott. There was a couple of apologies from Monty that I ignored. Seemed pretty clear that I didnât want to talk to him but sure. I swiped to open Justinâs text first.
Hey Addy. Just checking in to see how youâre doing. Do you need anything? This is me reminding you not to work on your essays for too long and not overthink too much. I love you.
Hey, Iâm okay. A little lonely but I think I need it tbh. Iâll try not to think too much, but we both know how my brain works. Scottâs texts were next.
We got home safe. Mom and Dad are a little concerned about him but other than that, itâs all good. Iâm still giving him hell for you.
Thanks Scott. Make sure he eats something of actual nutritional value please. Montyâs texts remained unopened.
I eventually turned my attention to the end table and the broken picture frame. Carefully picking it up, I examined it. The frame itself had broken in two places and the glass was shattered. Thankfully, the photo was still intact. âTime to dig through our stuff for a new frame.â Finding one was easy enough. They were on sale a while ago at IKEA, so we bought a bunch. Soon the picture was back in its rightful place on the table. At least one part of this mess was taken care of.
By ten thirty, I was ready to go to sleep and forget about the stress of the day. I went about the ninety-seven thousand things I do before bed as usual. I crawled into the large, cool bed and curled up in the same position I usually did, in an attempt to help myself fall asleep. It turns out, sleep wasnât going to be easy to come by. I rolled onto my back, and then onto my side. When those positions werenât comfortable, I rolled onto my stomach and then back to the other side. I tried turning Montyâs pillow longways so I could cuddle it. It smelled like him, which was nice, but it was too soft and didnât move like he was breathing. I put the pillow back in its normal position and tried to stretch out. That didnât help either. You know where he is. Itâs not like heâs in danger. You can go to sleep. He is safe. Just sleep. The tossing and turning and racing thoughts went on for at least another few hours, before I decided I needed to take a sleeping pill. I had to get enough sleep, in order to deal with the argument that would most likely occur tomorrow.
I was awake at the ungodly hour of six am on a Saturday, lying in bed, trying in vain to get at least a couple more hours of sleep. By six thirty I gave up on that plan. I dragged myself out of bed and made a very large, very strong, cup of coffee. Deciding it was probably time to bite the bullet and read Montyâs various apologies, I took a deep breath and opened his messages.
Iâm sorry.
Iâm sorry I screwed up Addison.
Please donât be mad at me. I love you.
I love you.
Please talk to me. I know I fucked up, but this silence is killing me.
Addison. Baby. Please.
I need you.
Please just tell me how to fix this?
Addy, please talk to me. Iâm really fucking sorry.
Okay, Scott says if I donât stop texting you and go to bed, heâs throwing my phone in the garbage. I love you and Iâm still sorry. I couldnât stop the urge to roll my eyes at the string of pleases. He made no mention of what he actually did. I sent him a quick text, knowing he wouldnât answer at this hour.
We will talk at home. Tell Scott and his family thank you for letting you stay there for me. With that arduous task completed, I puttered around the house, tidying the nonexistent mess.
I was lounging on the couch, reading a book, when I heard the door unlock. I didnât look up until I had finished my page and Montgomery cleared his throat. âHi.â He greeted me, awkwardly.
âHi.â We were silent for a few beats. Neither of us knew what to say to each other. I turned to look at him. He was looking around the room, anywhere but at me. I felt a small tinge of regret and pity at the uncomfortable look crossing his features. You have nothing to be sorry for. He is at fault here.
âCan you just say something so we can get this over with?â
Get this ov- seriously? âDepends. Can you act like an adult take responsibility for your actions?â
âOh, so thatâs how you want to start this?â
âI guess so, yeah.â I shrugged, standing up.
âI donât see why you are so upset Addison-.â
âI swear to God Montgomery. If you say a word about the picture frame.â
âScott already gave me shit for fucking up last night.â
âOh! Okay, Iâm sorry. Why didnât you say something before? Clearly, we have nothing to discuss here, since Scott fucking Reed already talked to you about it?â I yelled, throwing my arms up for dramatic effect. âDo you even understand why Iâm upset?â
âHeâs my best friend. I listen to him. Yeah, I get it. Iâm sorry I screwed up Addison.â
I blinked slowly at him, trying to figure out if he was being serious or not. âYou listen to Scott? Because Iâm almost certain it wasnât Scott that had no issue with you getting so drunk you could hardly stand on a Thursday night.â
âSeriously Addison? You are going to bring your issues with Bryce into this?â
âI never said that. You did. But sure, since apparently you canât take responsibility for what you did, yeah. Iâm going to bring Bryce into this, Montgomery.â
âIt was one night Addison.â
âThis time. This time it was one night. What about next time? Or the time after that?â Â
âItâs not a big deal. What are you going to do, tell me I canât be friends with him? Heâs my brother.â
âI am your WIFE. I am your family. You need to realize your actions affect more than just you now.â
âYou didnât answer my question.â He crossed his arms.
âI donât want to tell you that you canât. That is something you can decide on your own.â
âThatâs you politely saying yes.â
âNo, it isnât. If you want to take it that way, you can. Are you ready to discuss the real issue now? I donât put even a quarter of the blame on Bryce.â
âMhmm. Sure, you donât.â He muttered, aggressively.
âYou decided to get wasted at a party. You decided not to let me know where you were, or if you were okay, or if you were coming home. You decided to drive home.â
âI didnât realize you needed to know where I was at all times.â
âI donât.â
âReally? Because it sure as shit seems like it.â
âSorry for wanting to know if my husband was okay or not.â I yelled.
âYou knew I was at Bryceâs. I was fine.â
âFine? If you think this is fine, you need to re-evaluate that idea really fast. You could barely stand up. Itâs a wonder you didnât get pulled over or hit anything. Or anyone.â
âI didnât. I got home in one piece and everything was fine. Until you decided to throw a hissy fit about it. And newsflash, my leg is fucked, so I can barely stand up to begin with.â
âIt is not fine Monty.â
âYou keep saying that but arenât giving me a reason or explanation why.â
âYou mean aside from the obvious?â
âYeah.â
âYou need to realize that it isnât just you anymore. You need to understand that you have a family to be concerned about now. I get that itâs not something you are used to, but you do.â
He scoffed. âI understand that perfectly well Addison.â
âDo you though? Because I donât think you do. You donât act like you do.â
âBecause I went out with my friends for a night? You are going to question my commitment to you because of one night?â
âNo. Iâm not questioning your commitment to me. And I have no problem with you going out with your friends. I have an issue with you coming home drunk off your ass. Again. I have an issue with the fact that you do it and then we talk about it and then you go on like everything is fine for a while. And then you do it again.â
âItâs not like I do it all the time. Donât make it sound like Iâm just coming home drunk every night.â
âIâm not. Iâm just saying that this is becoming a pattern. A pattern that I, for one, am not okay with.â
Monty stared at me incredulously. He rolled his eyes and shook his head, catching sight of the replaced frame on the end table. âI see you fixed your precious photo. So, there is no reason to be mad anymore.â He muttered just loud enough for me to hear.
âSeriously? It was never about the goddamn picture frame. It was about you. Do you honestly think I would make you spend the night at your friendâs house over a picture frame breaking?â
âI donât know Addison.â
âWell clearly we arenât going to get anywhere today then. Since you canât seem to accept that your actions have consequences, and I canât force you to understand my point.â I shook my head. I couldnât keep going around in circles with him. If he wasnât ready to have a mature discussion about this, then there was no point in trying.
âI guess not.â He said.
There was nothing more to be said anymore, so I walked back to the coffee table from the kitchen, where we had ended up in our fighting. Grabbing my book and phone, I stalked past him, half hoping he would reach out and grab me to apologise. When he didnât, I went back into our room and closed the door. I went to the bathroom to splash some water on my face. Instead, when I shut the door, I slid down to the floor and laid my head on my knees. My tears left little dots on my leggings and stains down my cheeks. Luckily, I was able to hold back any sobs that tried to break through.
After a while, I could hear Monty in our room. It sounded like he was opening and closing drawers. For a moment, I could hear him breathing on the other side of the door. It was like he was trying to decide to knock or not. I held my breath. A moment later, I heard his footsteps pad away from the door. Roughly an hour or so later, I decided I had hidden in my own home long enough. I stood up and splashed my face with cool water. I quickly changed into a pair of dark sweatpants and a comfortable t-shirt, with my favourite grey cardigan over top.
âIâm going out.â I stated as I walked out of our room and grabbed my purse.
âK.â Monty replied, not bothering to up from the playbook he was reading on the couch. I raised my brows sadly at his lack of response. My drive to Justinâs place was unusually silent. I normally drove with the radio on or AUX connected. I parked in front of the house and walked around back. I knocked on his door firmly a couple of times. While I waited, I unconsciously wrapped my arms around myself protectively. Justin opened the door not long after. He took one look at me trying not to cry and curling in on myself and stiffened.
âClay, get out.â
#can't go back#monty de la cruz#monty x oc#monty de la Cruz fanfic#monty imagine#monty x reader#montgomery de la cruz x oc#montgomery de la cruz#montgomery de la cruz x reader#montgomery de la cruz imagine#13 reasons why#13rw#13 rw#Thirteen Reasons Why#Justin Foley#justin foley jensen#fanfiction#fan fiction#fanfic#fanfic writing
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The Trials and Tribulations of Parenthood - An ohmxfong ficlet
Ever wonder what Ohm and Fong might be like as parents? This is for the anon that sent me a lovely prompt with this exact idea a few days ago. So if you are into family shenanigans, read along!
I will still give credit to @yangkoogan @earthfluuke @gaysarawat for making this ghostship sail in my head!
1.
âOhm! You canât just let her run around without pants on! The neighbours might see and think weâre bad parents.â
Fong frowned as he watched their daughter, Joy, squeal as she ran around their backyard with a shirt and only a diaper on. Ohm was running around chasing her as Fong watched from the back porch, waving a spatula in protest.
Ohm scooped Joy up into his arms and began to throw her into the air, âJoy, what do you think? Do you need to wear pants to be happy?â
âNOOOOOO!â Joy cried out as she was tossed up and down, waving her arms as if she were on a rollercoaster having the time of her life.
âSee, babe, I think you should think more like Joy and I.â Ohm called out to Fong.
Fong rolled his eyes fondly as Ohm continued to play with their daughter. There was no point in trying to make something different if both Ohm and Joy were on the same side so Fong decided to give up the battle.
2.
âIt hurts, Papa!â
Ohm was not good with bandaids and he was even worse with blood. He felt himself battling with consciousness as he looked down at the scrape on his sonâs knee. Where the hell was Fong when he needed him?
âDonât worry. Papaâs gonna fix it.â Ohm tried desperately to keep his composure as he held Theoâs knee in place.
âDaddy usually cleans it first.â Theo explained, looking up at Ohm with an unimpressed expression which made Ohm feel even more inept.
Ohm stood to his feet a bit too quickly and felt himself sway. If he wasnât going to faint before, now he definitely was going to. But before he could falter any more, Ohm felt arms steadying him and looked up to see Fong staring at him with a worried look.
âIâm okay.â Ohm assured Fong.
Fong whispered, âDonât worry. Iâll take it from here. I know how you feel about bloodâŠâ
Ohm watched as Fong knelt down toward their son. Joy came running into the kitchen to see what the ruckus was and slipped her hand into Ohmâs to comfort him. Joy looked up at Ohm and shared, âDonât worry, Papa. Daddyâs got it. Heâs practically a doctor.â
âTheoâŠ. oh dear, little man. What adventure caused all this craziness?â Fong inquired as he inspected the scrape.
âPapa tried to help me to fly to the moon on the trampoline.â Theo told the story of the accident. âMy rocket went out of orbit and well⊠there was a crash landing.â
Joyâs eyes widened at the story and Ohm winced slightly, knowing he would get an earful from Fong later that evening but was surprised he didnât get a dirty look from Fong right then and there. Ohm and Joy observed as Fong skillfully and calmly cleaned up and dressed the wound and helped their son back up to his feet.
âAs good as ever.â Fong announced, standing up to his feet. âLooks like the rocket is ready to go explore space again!â
âBut beware of the aliens!â Joy screamed at the top of her lungs and chased Theo outside to the backyard.
âThanks for that.â Ohm muttered, embarrassed by the way he had handled the situation.
Fong laced an arm around Ohm and pulled him close. âAnytime, hon.â
3.
âWhat if I slip and fall on my face and everybody laughs at me?â
It was Joyâs first choir concert and she was currently clinging onto Ohmâs leg and refusing to let go. Theo was snuggled up in Fongâs arms and fast asleep after a long play at preschool. Fong was usually the expert on helping their children calm down and with how Joyâs lower lip was beginning to wobble, they were about five seconds from a complete meltdown right then and there.
Ohm quickly guided Joy away from the rest of the crowd and found some shade under a tree near the concert venue. Fong followed slowly but had to move at a slower pace because he did not want to wake Theo. Ohm pulled Joy into his lap and hugged her tightly.
âYou know, no matter what ends up happening, Daddy, Papa and Theo are always proud of you.â Ohm explained. âIf you decide to do the concert, we will be proud of you for doing it but if you decide not to, we will be proud of you for knowing what is best for you. That takes even more than courage than doing things just because you worry what others might think.â
âCourage.â Joy repeated the word as she had never heard it before. âWhat does that mean, Papa?â
Ohm thought for a moment before responding, a tactic that he had learned from Fong, especially when communicating with their children. âItâs like bravery. When you feel scared or worried to do something, sometimes you need to use courage to do that thing.â
âI like that.â Joy answered and pushed off of Ohmâs lap and turned toward him. âI will use COURAGE to get onstage today.â
âThatâs a great word, Joy!â Fong called over in agreement before realizing that his son was still asleep on his shoulder. He winced slightly but Theo remained completely out.
Ohm laughed at the interaction and grinned at his daughter, standing up to his feet as well. âYouâre kind of like a superhero, Joy.â
âI AM a superhero, Papa.â Joy placed her hands on her hips proudly. âI am a SINGING SUPERHERO!â
With that, Joy skipped away to meet up with the rest of her class. Fong gave Ohm a thumbs up of approval and they both walked in with the rest of the viewers to watch their daughter light up the stage.
4.
There was cake batter and extra ingredients splattered from the ceiling to the floor. Fong and Ohm did not recall who thought it was a good idea to bake cookies as a present for Uncle Tineâs birthday but with a three year old and a five year old, they should have seen the impending disaster.
âITâS LIKE A SLIP AND SLIDE!â Theo cried out and was about to launch himself across the linoleum floor that was slick with spilt ingredients.
Before he could, Ohm snatched him up and threw him up over his shoulder so that Theo would not be able to try his brilliant idea again. Fong was trying to clean up some of the fallen ingredients with a rag but his daughter had other ideas about the efficiency of their âbakeryâ.
âIâm going to try it again.â Joy explained as she reached to turn on the electric mixer again which is how this had all gone so wrong in the first place. âMaybe it just needs to be faster so Iâll turn it up to 11!â
âJoy, I asked you to keep it off for now.â Fong grumbled. He felt rather disappointed in himself. He was usually so good at keeping the kidâs activities mostly mess-free but when Joy suggested a homemade present for their friend, he thought it was a great idea.
âUncle Wat loves cookies.â Joy crossed her arms and put on a big pout. âHow are we going to get him to sing us a song if we donât bring him cookies?â
âItâs Uncle Tineâs birthday, not Uncle Watâs.â Ohm reminded his daughter and finally set Theo down on the couch which he hoped was far enough to deter his son from attempting a crash landing again.
âWHO DOESNâT LIKE COOKIES?â Joy protested and reached for the controls of the mixer again.
Both Fong and Ohm raced to intercept their daughter but ended up colliding instead, resulting in a cloud of flour rising to the ceiling and their heads to feel like theyâd both ran into a brick wall. Theo and Joy gasped at the collision and quickly approached to inspect their fathers who looked stunned at first but quickly dissolved into a fit of laugher.
Realizing that Fong and Ohm were okay, Theo grabbed a clump of fallen batter and made it into a ball, âFOOD FIGHT!â
The battle had begun before Fong could even try to put a stop to it. Ohm and Joy seemed like they were a tag team so Fong jumped to his feet to join the melee, launching into the disarray with complete abandon. The mess could always be cleaned up later but this memory they were making as a family was much more lasting.
Fong and Ohm looked at each directly in the eyes during a reprieve in the battle  and wondered how exactly they had gotten themselves into such a mess. But to them, it was worth it.
5.
âThe gremlins are both under the covers and seemingly passed out.â
Ohm launched himself into the bed. It had always been the arrangement since they first adopted  Joy and Theo as a sibling pair all those years ago to take one evening off and one evening on for the bedtime routine so that their significant other could get some reading in or just generally relax.
âPerfect.â Fong turned to see Ohm was now inches for his face.
Fong dropped a kiss on Ohmâs lips and Ohm wrapped his arms around Fong to pull his significant other even closer. Fong rested his head on Ohmâs chest and sighed happily. Not all days went as smoothly as this one had but as long as they were together, Ohm and Fong were going to navigate this family business to the best of their abilities.
âDo you think weâre good parents?â Fong wondered, ever the worrier.
âI think weâre doing the best for our kids.â Ohm answered, press his lips to the top of Fongâs head in a gesture that he hoped made Fong feel as comforted and loved as he deserved to feel. âAnd thatâs all that really matters.â
âItâs just hard when it gets too much, yâknow?â Fong muttered, his mind spinning in circles. âI always look back and wonder if I said or did the wrong thing⊠like, will they remember how I yelled at them over clogging the toilet with a toy car? Or will they remember when we went for that family picnic where we actually managed to all get along for a whole afternoon?â
Ohm took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding, âThey might not always remember the peaceful or quiet moments but they will always remember how being a part of our family feels. The love we all give each other, the support. Thatâs what family means.â
Fong wondered if he was the only one who ever saw this wise side of Ohm as Ohm tended to be the gregarious and goofy foil to Fongâs serious and practical one. That was what made them work together so well, as life partners and as parents. They balanced each other out and even when things were tough, they found a way back to where they started which is what made Fong realize that there no such thing as perfect parenting but what really mattered was the effort and love you put into every interaction with not only you children but your partner as well.
âThanks, hon.â Fong shared and looked up at Ohm before snuggling once again into Ohmâs chest where he always found himself the most comfortable. âYou always know how to put things into perspective in a way that doesnât make me feel like a crazy person.â
âYouâre not crazy.â Ohm ran his hand through Fongâs hair gently. âYou just care so much that it sometimes gets in the way of you being able to see the whole picture. The whole picture being that, we are awesome together which makes us kick-ass parents.â
âWe do, donât we?â Fong pushed himself up from Ohmâs chest to a seated position so that he was facing Ohm.
âWe sure do.â Ohm tackled Fong and pressed a full on attack of kisses to Fongâs mouth.
While they were never perfect, Ohm and Fong were just enough of a dynamic duo to make the family work, even if they didnât get it 100% every time.
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Lucie Herondale's 17th birthday! Takes place after the events of Chain of Thorns,which hopefully will have a happy ending!
Enjoy the reading!
Summer,1904,Idris
At the Herondale Manor in Idris,Lucie could barely pretend not to be excited,as she stood in front of the mirror.
Today was her birthday,her 17th birthday to be exact. Birthdays were quite important for the Herondales,since they knew how short a life could be.
Most of Lucie's birthdays were in London though,as her father,Will,would take her to the Portal,they would appear at the gates of the Institute,and inside Lucie would find her family and friends in a surprise party.
A surprise party she obviously knew about,so she usually spends a good amount of time rehearsing surprised faces.
That is what she was doing now,in the bathroom of her room. It wouldn't take long for Tessa to show up and congratulate her,and also tell her to speed it up.
Lucie wasn't really in the mood to speed it up today though,she was trying to make the perfect surprised face today,after all,she had a certain Blackthorn to impress.
James would make fun of her,no doubt. Luckily,he would be with Daisy so he wasn't going to pay attention to Lucie on that matter.
-Lucie! Are you done there darling!? Your father wants you to come and have breakfast with us!-Tessa said.
Lucie opened the door,she was still wearing the pink nightgown Grace had given her,as a way to thank her for helping bring Jesse back.
Lucie accepted the gift with quite some joy,since it wasn't like Grace to give anyone gifts. And the nightgown was very beautiful.
-I just need to get dressed Mam! I won't take too long!-Lucie said,as Tessa pulled her to a hug.
-My darling Lucie! Happy birthday my sweet girl! Seventeen years! You are almost an adult now!-Tessa said,nearly crying.
-Mam! Please save your tears for a more impactful moment of today!-Said Lucie,truth was,she was almost crying as well.
-Well get dressed then! And please hurry!-Tessa said,and left the room.
Lucie decided to wear a pink dress,one she used when Will asked for a portrait of her to be made. It was one of her favorite dresses.
She went downstairs and to the dining room,where her parents and James were having breakfast.
-The birthday girl finally decided to show up! Happy birthday sister!-James said,kissing Lucie's forehead.
-Thank you Jamie.-Lucie said,smiling,as Will approached her and hugged her.
-I cannot believe my Lulu is turning seventeen. I feel as if i ought to cry the entire day.-Will said,grinning.
-Papa! Enough with that silly nickname! It is embarassing!-Lucie said.
-And what are parents for if not to embarass their children?-Will asked,and they all laughed.
Those were really happy times. But the day was just beginning.
Later
Lucie and James were walking around the Herondale Manor. Truth was,apparently James had found a mysterious lake nearby that they never knew about. But Lucie was not buying it.
-That sounds so untruth! As a writer,i should have been the one to find this lake,so i could describe it in The Beautiful Cordelia!-Lucie said.
James shook his head.
-Try to forget about novels today,Luce. You are almost eighteen now. Do you have any idea which Institute you would like to visit?-James asked.
Lucie had already thought about that. She was waiting to see if the Clave would approve of Jesse's visit to the New York Institute. He wasn't seventeen anymore,obviously.
He had two ages,but since he did not had the chance before,he was considering visiting now.
And if the Clave approved,she would choose the New York Institute to got with him.
-Not really. I don't really want to think about that right now. Much can happen in a year. I am sure i will be certain of my answer in my next birthday.-Lucie said.
James nodded.
-Seems fair. I am sure we will have lots of fun today. By the way,i know that you were rehearsing today.-James said,and smiled.
Lucie felt like punching him in the stomach,which would be easy,since she was much shorter than him.
-My surprise faces are the best! And i was under the impression you would keep my secret! I think it pleases Papa and Mam if they think that i am really surprised.-Lucie said.
-I am sure they probably know that you pretend. But now is not the time to think about that. Let's go back to the Manor.-James said.
Lucie nodded,and so they did.
As Lucie opened the great doors of the Herondale Manor,she shrieked when she heard a very loud "Surprise" shout.
The living room was full of people,her parents,her family and all her friends.
She covered her mouth with her hands,and turned her attention to James,who was standing beside her,with a smile on his face.
-This was definitely your best surprise face,Luce.-He said.
Minutes Later
-I cannot believe it! This was your idea Daisy?-Lucie asked,looking at her Parabatai,that was laughing.
-James told me that usually your father would bring you to the Institute,so i thought it would be good if we changed the routine once in a while.-Said Cordelia.
-That was brilliant! For the first time,i was truly surprised!-Lucie said.
-And we had help from Magnus to make all this food appear here. I was afraid the cake would loose itself in somekind of random realm.-Matthew said.
Lucie looked at him. It has been almost an entire year since Matthew was sobber. It was good to see that he was being able to overcome his problems.
-Good thing it didn't! A birthday without a cake is quite anticlimactic!-Said Lucie.
She stared at the cake. It was quite big,a combination of strawberry and chocolate,Lucie could only hope that her mother would eat as well. She knew Tessa wasn't very fond of chocolate.
-You better go greet the others Lucie,and allow them to congratulate you.-James said.
Lucie nodded. James was right,she had to do that,it would be a good opportunity to talk to Jesse too.
Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Henry were the first to come and talk to her. Charlotte could barely go to the other birthdays she had,but since they were in Idris,it made it a lot easier for her to show up.
Charles came after,Lucie still had a hard time being around Charles. Some of his actions and words made Lucie seriously doubt if he would ever be a decent Consul.
-Lucie dear! Happy birthday! This is quite the party you are having!-Said Anna,and with her was Ariadne.
-Congratulations! I really loved your dress Lucie!-Ariadne said.
-Thank you! I'm so glad you two could come! How is your father dealing with the both of you being together?-Lucie asked.
Ariadne shrugged.
-I'm not really sure. He says it is okay,but always avoids the conversation.-Ariadne said.
-Don't let her fool you Ari! She is only trying to get a description out of you! She is a bloody writer!-Anna said,and Lucie laughed.
Uncle Gabriel and Aunt Cecily came to her,apparently Alexander was playing with his red rubber ball somewhere else.
-Lucie my beautiful niece! You will soon become an adult Shadowhunter! And then we will start our plan to take control of the Clave! Only women will lead!-Cecily said,hugging Lucie.
-That seems quite a difficult plan!-Lucie said.
-Don't listen to her Luce! We all know that you will become a great Shadowhunter and a great writer as well! I'm still waiting to have my own copy of The Beautiful Cordelia.-Gabriel said.
-Sorry Uncle Gabriel,but i'm afraid you will have to wait for it's publication.-Lucie said.
Eugenia,Sophie and Gideon also congratulated her,and it reminded Lucie of Barbara,and how she was always nice and cheerful. Lucie missed her cousin.
Lucie began to feel a little tired since she had been standing for quite a while now. She sat beside Thomas.
-Thank goodness you are not standing Tom! I wouldn't like to make you come all the way down just to hug me!-Lucie said.
Thomas smiled and kissed her forehead.
-It would be for a good reason. I am so glad to see that you are enjoying the party. When Cordelia had the idea of having the party at the Manor,i wasn't really sure if you would like it or not. Since we can literally see the ruins of the Blackthorn Manor from here.-Thomas said.
It was true. James had accidentally burned the Blackthorn Manor to the ground,and it was possible to see the outcome of that.
Lucie wasn't sure if seeing that would be awful for Grace and Jesse,but they didn't seemed to mind.
-Have you heard the big news Lucie? Christopher and Grace now have an understanding!-Thomas said.
Lucie would literally have screamed if the Manor were not so full.
She stood up and went to Grace's direction. It was Impossible not to recognize Grace,always in her ivory dresses.
-Grace! By the Angel,is it really true?-Lucie asked.
-Happy birthday Lucie. I hope you won't mind my presence here?-Grace asked.
-I'm glad that you came Grace. Our friendship has a special meaning to me.-Said Lucie.
Grace nodded.
-To me as well. I will always be grateful to you,for you helped me get my brother back. I will never forget your kindness.-Grace said.
-I am just as happy that Jesse was able to return. But do tell me! Is it truth? You and my cousin Christopher have an understanding?-Lucie asked.
Grace laughed. That rarely happened.
-It is true. Almost every men i met in my life thought that i was like all the other girls. That i only wished for emotions and feelings. But Christopher is different. He doesn't try to give me what he thinks i want. He listens to me,he makes me laugh with all that science of his. Being with him makes me feel lighter.-Grace said,smiling.
-That is adorable! I wish all the best for the both of you!-Lucie said.
-Gracie,might we have this dance? I swear to you i have been practicing the waltz with my mother and i will not step on your toes! Oh,hello Lucie! Happy birthday!-Christopher said,almost too fast.
-Of course,Chris. Excuse me,Lucie. Before i forget,my brother is in the garden,he wishes to speak to you,in private.-Grace said.
Lucie did not waste a second,she went straight to the garden of the Herondale Manor.
It was a sunny day in Idris,and the big trees in the garden created long shadows on the ground.
Jesse was near the tree,the shadow protecting him from the sun. It has been quite some time since he had returned from the dead,but he was still getting used to the light.
When he saw Lucie,a smile appeared on his handsome face.
-Finally,the Secret Princess Lucie has found time to talk to the Good Old Ghost Boy.-Jesse said.
Lucie put her hands on her hips.
-In her birthdays,Secret Princess Lucie can barely escape the attention of the Cruel Prince James,of the Demon Pox King William,and of the Shape-Shifter Queen Theresa.-Lucie said.
Jesse's eyes widened.
-Your father is Demon Pox King?-He asked,astonished.
Lucie only giggled.
-Perhaps Good Old Ghost Boy should have come to her rescue?-Jesse asked.
Lucie shook her head.
-Absolutely not! I am no damsel in distress i assure you! Grace said that you wanted to talk to me,so here i am! You may talk to me now!-Lucie said.
-How lucky i am,to get your attention for myself when everyone seems desperate to be with you.-Jesse said.
-That only happens in my birthdays. My attention will be on you,mostly.-Lucie said.
Jesse smiled. It did seemed like he had something important to say.
-So how has it been with the Clave? Will they allow you to go to the New York Institute?-Lucie asked.
-Charlotte Fairchild have talked to me when i arrived for your party. As the Consul,she said that i have permission. But it can't be this year. Since i was brought back,the Silent Brothers want to keep their closed eyes on me for a little more time. I can only visit next year.-Said Jesse.
Lucie beamed.
-That is absolutely perfect Jesse! How lucky of you!-Lucie said.
Jesse raised his eyebrows.
-Why am i lucky?-He asked.
-Well,i do become eighteen years old next year. In other words,i could go with you,if you are willing to wait.-Lucie said.
Jesse laughed.
-Well,it seems i really am lucky. Nothing would please me more than having your company.-Jesse said.
-It is settled then! You and i in New York,next year!-Said Lucie.
Jesse took her hands.
-Have you taken a look at your gifts? I'm sure you will love most of them. Perhaps all of them,if you are in a good day.-Jesse said.
Lucie was rather curious. What was his gift for her?
-What have you gotten me,Jesse? Will i like it? Or will i hate it?-Lucie asked.
-We shall see. If you don't mind,i would like to give you your gift right now.-Jesse said.
-Very well then. Please do.-She said.
Jesse leaned in close to her,and his lips touched hers,smooth and nicely.
They were holding hands as they kissed. Jesse tasted like honey and something more sweet than that. It was a taste she could only associate to him.
Their lips parted,and he smiled. That was probably the best gift Lucie had ever gotten.
-Happy birthday Lucie.-Jesse said.
#cassandra clare#chain of gold#the last hours#lucie herondale#james herondale#thomas lightwood#cordelia carstairs#jesse blackthorn#grace blackthorn#will herondale#tessa gray#christopher lightwood#matthew fairchild#anna lightwood#ariadne bridgestock
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Happy Birthday to Me Pt 6
It was then that I heard Lan Xichen absolutely YELLING about how excited he was for karaoke later. I was torn between being VERY interested in the idea of karaoke, and very amused by the expression on DaGeâs face while Lan Xichen clung to his arm. Adorable. â„ Apparently giving Lan Xichen alcohol made for very amusing consequences. Hah. I wonder if Lan Zhan is the same way? I noticed he hadnât touched a drop of the wine. Maybe one day Iâll be able to convince him to share a drink or two with me.Â
Ah well. Thatâs a thought for later.Â
I tugged on Lan Zhanâs shirt to get his attention away from his drunk brother and back on his unfortunately sober me. Â
â/You/ planned for karaoke?â I asked, surprised. It was a loud game of bad singing that was usually performed drunk in my experience. I knew Lan Zhan to be quite the discerning musician with a distaste for loudness and rowdiness so I was surprised he would bring in something that encouraged both.Â
âHuaisang suggested it,â he said, sounding a little defensive.Â
âIâm surprised you agreed to it though!â I persisted. I was about to tell him that I in know why thought this was a BAD thing when SangSang interjected.Â
âHeâs lying. Wangji suggested it. Said he missed singingâ
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lan ZHan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You can sing to me whenever you want!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Lan Zhan looked rather like he would like to melt into the floor right then. Canât really blame him as Nie Huaisangâs voice carried to the other side of the table. DaGe had a devilish expression that matched Lan Xichenâs.Â
I couldnât help but laugh, but regretted it immediately because Lan Zhan looked so mortified and not in the fun way. I think he thought I was laughing at him. I wasnât at all! I mean heâs completely adorable and that always makes me laugh in a good way but this time I was laughing at the conspiratorial looks that the Nie brothers were sharing. I get the sense the two of them arenât on the same page that often.Â
âIâm sorry, Lan Zhan,â I said, trying to make him feel better. âI wasnât laughing at you! Promise. I just didnât think youâd be into that kind of thing at all!â
I donât think it helped but I wasnât sure what to say after that. I didnât mean to upset him at all. I just figured heâd appreciate an opera more than Jiang Cheng screaming into a microphone.Â
Before I could figure out how to make amends, Shijie started to clear the table. Lan Zhan and I started to get up to help but Shijie stopped us.Â
âNo you stay there!â she said, and it took me a second to realize she was talking to Lan Zhan rather than me. She passed him A-Lian who stared at him with mild interest. âI trust you to keep my daughter safe while Iâm away.âÂ
Trust Shijie to save the day. She knocked him out of his glowring mood with one swift and decisive stroke of genius.
But now he had a different problem. And that problem was idly blowing spit bubbles while staring at him. I could tell he had no idea what to do because he just held her under her armpits while looking lost.Â
I watched, waiting for that moment when my little niece started to work her magic. But first she had to decide if she liked him or not. I wasnât worried. What isnât to like about Lan Zhan?
She seemed to agree because her little face broke out into a grin, showing off her little baby teeth. She babbled at him and started reaching for his face and he was done for.
No one can resist that move. No one. I bet itâd even make Lan Qiren melt.Â
And it worked on him just like it worked on everyone else.Â
I saw his jade face crack and he pulled her in close.Â
OhâŠ.
Oh noâŠÂ
That same emotion that I refuse to identify came back in full force.Â
A wave of a wish that I donât dare to want. Not when Iâm barely wrapping my mind around the slim hope he mightâŠ.
I bit my lip to keep myself steady.Â
I wanted thisâŠÂ
I want it.Â
Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuugh
One step at a time Wei Ying! Donât get ahead of yourself! Come on now!Â
Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuugh.Â
Oof. Anyway. Heh..Â
A-Lian made herself at home on his lap and started playing with his long fingers. She kept looking up at him as if making sure all of his attention was on her. And of course it was. No one can resist that little face.Â
And then he smiled back at her and my heart melted even MORE
Fuck.
I was saved by Jiang Chengâs voice cutting through that peaceful moment.Â
âLan Wangji, if youâre trying to earn a spot as best uncle in her heart, I suggest you give up immediately!â
Of course I kicked him as hard as I could under the table because how dare????
Besides! Clearly /I/ am the best uncle in her heart! And I wouldnât give up that spot to anyone EXCEPT maybe Lan Zhan. Because he is just the best. Full stop.Â
âWhy donât you go help Shijie instead of running your mouth?â I snapped at him.Â
He glared at me and asked why I didnât do that myself. I responded that it was my birthday and I was told to stay put.Â
Though technically I think Lan Zhan was the one told to stay put. But I wanted to be where he was so I was stuck too.
I grinned at him because I knew it would piss him off. It worked. Hah.Â
But then the peacock, probably trying to keep to his promise to be nice, asked Jiang Cheng to take Jin Ling to the bathroom. The quickest way to get Jiang Cheng to do what you want is to involve Jin Ling. He canât resist any excuse to spend time with his little nephew.Â
I just hope the poor kid doesnât learn to copy Jiang Chengâs temper.Â
But he dotes on that boy so I guess it wonât be too much of a problem.
After he stomped off with A-Ling in his arms, Nie Huaisang floated back into the middle of the room for a big announcement. Apparently.
âBefore we begin with the singing and dancing portion of the evening,â he said, all business, âthere are two important things we must do first!â
As if waiting on a queue, Shijie came out from behind him with a large bag of something heavy that she dropped in front of me with a fwump. (Why were they making Shijie do so much when sheâs pregnant! I know sheâs barely showing and is in perfect health and absolutely glowing, but still! She should be using this time to do nothing but rest!)
(Yes I KNOW sheâd never let herself sit idle but I can still blame everyone else.)
I tried to reach for the bag, curious, but she slid it further away. I looked at her to do my best imitation of Jin Lingâs pout, but the effect was ruined by the lights being turned off.Â
The plunge into darkness lasted only a moment before the room was lit up by a bunch of candles on what appeared to be a masterpiece of a cake! Jiang Cheng must have slipped back into the room because before I knew it he and Gamby were leading a chorus of âhappy birthdayâ which was soon joined in by everyone else.Â
As I was once again nearly moved to tears (dear god when did I get this EMOTIONAL????????) I couldnât help but mentally note how weird this was. Itâs a ritual that involves fire and chanting! Who came up with that?
And like the happy birthday song isnât exactly the happiest sounding melody if weâre completely honest here!
I did my best to collect myself again in time to blow out the mass of candles as everyone clapped.
I guess itâs a good thing that Lan Zhan doesnât have the lights attached to the clapper. Hah. Can you imagine?
Happy birthday! -clap clap clap-Â -STROBE LIGHTS!!!!-
I tried a couple of times to blow but I was too choked up.
It was a MASTERPIECE. An absolute work of art that had Shijieâs hand all over it.Â
How long must she have been working on this??? It was fit for a royal wedding! There was no need to spend all that time and effort just for my birthday! And it wasnât even a big one! My 30th isnât until next year!!
Oh god. Iâll try to describe it but I wonât be able to do it justice.Â
It was a giant lotus pond. With frosting so clear and smooth it looked like glass. The lotus flowers and pods looked real! Carefully hand painted to the most minute of details.
Candles were placed strategically to look like lanterns lighting up the scene.Â
There was depth to the cake and looking down into it revealed gorgeous koi that seemed to really swim in the flickering light from the artfully placed candles.
The piers she sculpted were an exact replica of home. Even down to the three figures sitting at the edge of one of the docks. I could hear our laughter creeping from the past from the very depths of my heart. There were no faces on the children but they were expressions of joy all the same!Â
Shijie was between Jiang Cheng and myself, separating us from our play fighting as she dipped her feet in the pond. Delicate ripples extended from the point where her tiny toe touched the calm waters.Â
A rare moment of peace with no pressure or demands from anyone. I remember the exact day she depicted there. If only we could all go back to that pier. Just for one more day. If only.Â
I finally tore my eyes away from that memory to look at the rest of the cake.Â
Oh that nearly broke me. Everyone I loved was there. Pieces of them represented in loving detail. Â
There were a couple of cups of coffee and tea to symbolise the women who had welcomed me to the cafe that had so improved my life. MianMian and Qin Su.Â
A small group of golden feathers glinted in the corner. A-Ling and A-Lian together with the tuft of my future niece or nephew in the protective shade of their father. (I suppose itâs fair that heâs there too. Fiiiine)
A Laptop for the friend that helps me remember that Iâm worth more than I give myself credit for (Yes thatâs you Huaisang.)
A crib for the grandmother I lost and found again. Gamby.Â
A butterfly for the little boy that I see almost as a son. A-Yuan.Â
A stethoscope for the doctors that saved my life. Who made me remember who I am. Who brought me back from that dark abyss. Wen Qing and her brother Wen Ning.Â
A pair of rabbits, one black and one white. for the man who stole my heart. Who changed my life. Who saved me in ways I didnât realize I needed to be saved. Lan Zhan.Â
Lan Zhan.Â
Shijie went through the lists to explain what they all meant, apologizing for some of them being, in her words âunrecognizableâ. What nonsense. She said sorry to DaGe and Lan Xichen for not including them but they both shook their heads and assured her it was fine. Well Lan Xichen half shouted until DaGe put a calming hand on his shoulder.Â
I couldnât see much more than that though because the dam had finally broken. I felt a bit of strength when Lan Zhan slid a hand onto my shoulder. The comforting weight helped me calm down enough to speak, though I couldnât stop crying.
âShijie. You made the pond,â I gasped. âOur pond.â
That was all I managed to choke out before the tears redoubled. Oh how embarrassing. I know the song says I can cry if I want to but I DONâT want to! Itâs a happy time and here I am getting all snotty and gross.Â
I got up shakily so I could pull her into my arms. It was all I could think to do to thank her. She understood. Of course she did. Sheâs Shijie. She held me close, whispering âOh A-Xian,â as she stroked my hair like she always used to. I felt another pair of arms wrap around the pair of us as Jiang Cheng turned it into a group hug. I noticed his eyes were a bit wet as well, though the tears hadnât quite fallen for him yet.Â
When Gamby joined the group hug it seemed to be the queue for everyone else to pile on top. Somehow Lan Zhan managed to worm his way into the inner circle. I didnât actually notice until I felt a large hand on my back.Â
Oh geez. That meant he saw me being a blubbering mess right up in his face.Â
Eventually it got a bit ridiculous and I couldn't help but laugh, complaining that I couldnât breathe.Â
Everyone laughed along with me and gave me some last squeezes and pats before they pulled away.Â
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Surprise
Tagging: @melyaliz @thespacebuns @coffee-randomness
Summary: it's Annabella's first birthday with the team.
A/N Willow belongs to a friend and Jen belongs to @melyaliz
Read Earlier Parts Here
âHello Megan!â Mâgann suddenly exclaimed making everyone turn to look at her.
They were barely a few minutes into the teen comedy movie they had decided to watch, Annabella quickly paused it.
âWe should have a beach day!â Mâgann clarified excitedly. âWeâre literally within walking distance of the beach and we have our own private section.â
âIâm not a big fan of hot days in the sun.â Willow said wrinkling her nose a bit making Annabella chuckle.
âIâll bring the giant umbrella.â Annabella promised to her friend who seemed to contemplate it.
âOh we can do a cook out and play beach volleyball and-â Mâgann was suddenly caught off as the zeta tube announced the arrival of Kid Flash and Robin.
A gust of wind nearly knocked the bowl of popcorn Annabella had on her lap. Looking up Wally stood before her a handful of popcorn already in his mouth as he stared at her accusingly.
âWhatâs this Iâm hearing about you not having a birthday party this year?â Wally demand making Annabella freeze in place.
She stared at him in shock, Wally and Maia knew better than to talk about her personal life with the rest of the team present.
âThatâs none of your business.â Annabella mumbled.
âYou have a birthday coming up?â Kaldur asked from his spot on the recliner, Annabella wanted to hide.
âWhenâs your birthday?â Mâgann asked, somehow seeming more excited than how she was planning a beach party.
âAugust 10th.â Wally, Maia, and Dick responded making Annabella glare at them all.
âOh dear thatâs six days from now. Is that enough time to plan a party?â Mâgann asked.
âNo because I'm not having one.â Annabella demanded. âBesides we're already planning a beach day there's no point in having so many things at once.â
âWe could make your birthday the beach day.â Mâgann offered.
âNo I already told my dad I wasnât having a party this year.â
âTechnically you told bats you didn't want a party at your guys place you never said anything about the cave.â Wally countered.
âYou have 10 seconds to run before I stab you.â Annabella muttered through clenched teeth.
âGuys if she doesnât want to have a birthday party then we don't need to throw one. Letâs just stick to the beach day for now. If by next year she changes her mind then we can throw one.â Superboy said, making everyone turn to stare at him.
âWhat?â He asked shrugging. âCan we get back to the movie now?â
~~~~~~~
We're totally going to plan her birthday party right? -Wally
We should still do the beach day to throw her off our trail. -Robin
What if we do the beach on the 8th. It's a couple days before her birthday, do you think she'll suspect anything? -Mâgann
As long as we act normal, yes. -Robin
If you want to act normal I suggest you all stop text while she's still in the room. -Kaldur
Also keep in mind shes going to try and avoid this place now that we know when her birthday is. -Willow
Weâll take care of that. -Wally & Robin
~~~~~~~
âWhat do you mean the beach day is tomorrow?â Wally whined as Annabela helped Mâgann prepare the food for the next day.
âIts what you get for blabbing about my birthday.â Annabella shrugged as she grabbed some more stuff from the cabinets missing the wink Wally shot at Mâgann.
âBut I go back to school tomorrow.â Wally whined again.
âWell you should have thought of that before you decided to open your big mouth. Now scram I don't want you touching any of this food.â
~~~~~~
"Just because you are robin doesn't mean you get out of wearing sunblock." Annabella shouted as she chased her brother around the beach.
Superboy managed to get a hold on Robin and held him long enough for Annabella to spray him down.
"Ha!"
"Aw man why did you have to get the sticky kind." He complained trying to rub some of the stuff off.
"Maybe if you stopped being a dick I'd get the better kind." Annabella said sticking her tongue out at him and making Willow giggle from her spot underneath the giant umbrella.
"Come on guys the water is great!" M'ganns called out.
Robin immediately rushed over and dived into the water. Annabella went to leave her bag next to Willow.
"I'd he coming?" Annabella asked hopefully only for her spirits to drop when she saw the look on Willows face.
"I extended the invite but he said he was 'busy'." Willow said making Annabella frown.
"Well then is it true? That the new girl is showing up today?" Annabella asked suddenly perking up again.
âHow do you know about that?â Willow asked but Annabella simply smirked.
âI have my ways.â Was all she said before tuning and running towards the water.
Sure enough Artemis turned up shortly after they finished their day at the beach. Though Annabella wasn't able to talk to her much since Roy should up and assigned the team a mission. By the time the mission was over Annabella was already back home.
âHey.â Mâgann called out to Artemis before she could leave.
âWhatâs up?â
âThat girl that was here before, Bells. Weâre throwing her a surprise birthday party in a couple days, youâre more than welcomed to come. And you donât have to worry about a present when trying not to go overboard.â Mâgann explained.
âI'll think about it.â Artemis said nodding before entering the zeta tube.
~~~~~~~
âHappy birthday Miss Annabella.â Alfred said as he placed a plate stacked high with pancakes.
âThanks Alfred.â Annabella smiled sheepishly as she reached for the syrup. âWhen are they getting here?â
Jen couldnât help but smile as her cousin bounced in place. âMom said their plane should be landing around noon. Plenty of time to shower you with love before its time for dinner.â
âAw thatâs too far away.â Annabella pouted as she poured her syrup.
âI'm sure weâll find some way to pass the time.â Jen said, sharing a look with Dick from across the table.
âI think Iâm good on pancakes for the month.â Annabella groaned as she laid down on the couch in the media center.
âYou and me both.â Jen sighed sitting down by Annabellaâs head and stroking her hair.
Annabella sighed as she relaxed, settling into the couch, was it too early to take a nap? However any thought of a nap was quickly disturbed when Annabella felt a familiar just of wind.
âSurprise.â Was all she heard Jen say as Wally hoisted Annabella over his shoulder and rushed her down to the cave and through the zeta tube.
âSurprise!â The entire team shouted as soon as Wally set her down in the living room.
Annabella wasn't really sure what to say, she wanted to be angry but all she could feel was their joy radiating from them. So she simply smiled and began the train off hugs.
The gifts were nice, Willow got her a snowglobe of Star City which Roy claimed was also from him since he's the one that payed for it. Kaldur got Annabella a beginners book on how to speak atlantean. Wally got her some more flash memorabilia. Mâgann went with a simple cute dress. Artemis having been new simply got Annabella a batman hoodie which she thought was hilarious and one she didn't have yet. Connor got her a small little stuffed bear and she couldnât help but smile as she carried it around.
Mâgann went all out on the cake, chocolate cake with blue icing. The food was mainly take out from Annabellaâs favorite local spots. Before she knew it the food was gone and it was time for her to head back home in time for the family dinner, she just hoped the dress Mâgann got her would still fit by the end of the day.
âHow was your day?â Bruce asked as soon as they appeared in the batcave, making sure everything was set for no disturbances this evening.
âGood.â Annabella said bounding up to her dad and wrapping her arms around him. âThanks for letting them do this.â
âHappy birthday sunshine.â Bruce said, turning to kiss the top of her head. âNow go get dressed, your cousin is waiting to see you.â
Annabella quickly sprinted up the stairs suddenly wishing for the day to never end.
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EXO Reaction to their Wife being Pregnant
Xiumin: It was Christmas when you were planning on telling Xiumin that he was going to be a father. The two of you have been married for about three years and every moment was amazing. Xiumin enjoyed having you to himself without having to share with anybody but lately, he has been dropping hints here and there about wanting to have a kid. Though the two of you have talked about having a kid in the near future, there was never really a plan that was created. You had found out that you were pregnant around a couple of weeks before Christmas and thought it would be the perfect time to tell Minseok. Putting a little sonogram that you had received from the doctorâs appointment into a little box and wrapping it up in a pastel color box, you were very excited to surprise your lovely doting husband. When Christmas Eve rolled around, the two of you had hosted a family and friends party. Everyone was having the time of their lives, not knowing about the surprise you had planned. During the gift exchange, you told Minseok to close his eyes, open the box and show the picture to everyone. He did exactly as you said and slowly raised the picture up for everyone to see. The only sounds that surround the room were âoohsâ and âahhs.âÂ
âBabe, can I open my eyes now?â Xiumin asked excitedly as he waits for your cue.
When you gave him the okay, he opened his eyes and look down at the content. Looking at you immediately, his widening eyes were filled with joy and happiness with a thin line of tears.Â
âWeâre having a baby⊠My baby is having a babyâ
Suho: Junmyeon was always fond of the idea that one day, you and he were going to have kids running around, kicking and screaming their heads off. To him, that idea is his dream and he couldnât wait. Sure, the two of you have talked about having kids and planned every single detail to make sure that they are brought up in the best environment possible, the process of conceiving one was hard. Though itâs been a long time of trying, you were not blessed with a child just yet. Both of you were frustrated but Junmyeon never let that show around you. He never dared to blame you and never made you feel like you couldnât conceive one. Always coming home with a sweet soft smile on his face, he would sometimes bring you your favorite pastry or flowers to cheer you up. That man knows exactly how to lift up your spirits. It was now during April, your birthday, and God were you sick. It wasnât like you to be sick either. Usually, your immune system is like an iron that no virus can destroy. Junmyeon decided to take you to the doctors since he canât stand seeing you so ill. That was when the two of you found out that you were expecting a child. You have never seen Junmyeonâs eyes so big and his smile look like it would tear his face. He gave you a big giant hug, almost tearing up.Â
âWe did it, y/n. We finally are going to be parents! I love you so much and thank you for this amazing gift.â
Lay: Yixing is known to be a hard working man and you have always admired that about him. Although it might seem that he is always working, he has longed for a child with you. The two of you decided to wait for a bit until Yixingâs career slowed down a bit. Now, he is working at his own studio and creating amazing songs. It was October and that means his birthday is coming up soon. As a little surprise, you have prepared a party with his family and friends. All of the EXO members were flying out to China to celebrate with him. You did not tell them either so all 8 of them are going to be in a big surprise. It was the day of Yixingâs birthday and you had banished him from the house for a little while. The cake delivery was coming soon and you had your friends helping you decorate the place. Soon the exo members arrived and they put their gifts down on the dining table. You pulled back all of the curtains in the apartment, revealing a beautiful night sky filled with stars. Soon Yixing was calling you, asking if it was okay to come home. You gave him the okay and was curious as to why he wasnât asking about why he was not allowed to be at home for the day. After the call, everyone took their place and hide. 5 minutes later, the door open and comes in Yixing. Everyone jumped out of their hiding place and sang him happy birthday. He stood there at the door in shock and soon showed a smile.Â
âBaby, you threw me a party?â
âYep and I have an announcement to make,â you said while walking over to a place where everyone can see you.
âHello everyone! Thank you for coming to our humble apartment to celebrate Yixingâs birthday. I have an announcement that I would like to make. Yixing and I are expecting a child soon!âÂ
Right at that words, everyoneâs jaw dropped to the floor. Looking over to Yixing, you could see him slowly making his way over to you with his arms open. He looked like he was going to cry.Â
âBaobei, this is the most amazing thing you have ever told me. Thank you for this amazing birthday present.â
Baekhyun: It was a typical Saturday and the both of you were lying in bed cuddling each other, talking about random topics. Then, the topic of kids and the future came up.Â
âBabe, how many kids do you want?â Baekhyun asked before kissing your forehead.Â
âI donât know, maybe 2 or 3. How about you, Baek?âÂ
âIâm fine with however many as you would like. I was just thinking how nice it would be to have kids running into our room and waking us up,â
âOh dear, Baek. They would most definitely have a loud voice. I would never get peace and quiet,â you said while chuckling. Baekhyun also let out a giggle and cuddle you closer.Â
âBut since you brought it up, I have something to tell you. Iâm pregnant.â
Baekhyunâs head shot up immediately and he quickly sat up.Â
âAre you serious, y/n? Weâre having a baby?âÂ
You nodded your head and Baekhyun tackled you into a hug.Â
âYouâre pregnant! I gotta go tell my parents and the members!â He grabbed his phone and started to call everyone and screaming at them about how he is going to be a dad. Oh boy, you are in for a handful.
Chen: The country of Korea was buzzing with excitement and stress as they prepare for Chuseok, Korean thanksgiving day. You and Jongdae were cooking for your guysâ families coming over to celebrate. There was food to be made, outfits to be worn, and money to be packed into tiny red envelopes. By the time the two of you had finished making the food, it was already 10 pm and you had to be up early the next day. As you headed to your bedroom to set both yours and chenâs hanboks on the rack, he came out of the master bathroom wearing a face mask.Â
âBabe! Wear one with me! We need to look our best for tomorrow! Plus itâs fun!â Your husband said while showing his adorable cat-like smile. After preparing your outfits for tomorrow, you walked over to your skincare drawer to grab a face mask then headed back to your bed where chen could be seen laying down while watching tv, waiting for you. The night soon passed with the two of you cuddling each other to sleep. Morning came and your alarm woke you up at 6 am. You looked next to your husband only to be met with his precious sleeping face. Today is going to be a big one for him and your guys families. Today, you felt nice so you let him sleep in for awhile longer while you got ready. After putting on your hanbok, you went near his side of the bed and gently wake him up. Soon, his and your families arrived and the holiday had officially begun. While everyone started to hand out red envelopes, his grandmother gave one to you and said âmay you have a child this year.â Little did she know you were able to announce it.Â
âExcuse me! I would like to get everyoneâs attention for just a second. As you may know, Jongdae and I have been together for a few years now. Since it is the holidays, I have a little surprise for him.â You said and handed him a red envelope. He gave you a suspicious look and took a peek inside. There was no money as it usually was but a little paper. Chen pulled it out of its shelter and read the card out loud.Â
âCongratulations, youâre going to be a father,â he said and immediately went straight to looking at you. âBabe, are you serious?!â you nodded and he automatically went to hugging you while everyone started to clap, excited for the little bundle of energy to get here.Â
Chanyeol: It was May 5th and you had some plans for your husband of two years, Chanyeol. You have decided to plan a little date at Lotte World, a perfect place to celebrate Children's Day. Chanyeol was super excited when you had told him the plans that you had but you never mentioned what was the occasion. Once you two had gotten there, you could see parents with their children jumping around, happy to be at the park. You couldnât differentiate between your husband and the children since he had the same energy levels as them. It was rather cute and endearing to see him living his child self. After a whole day of running around and playing, he took you to a cafe within the park.Â
âThanks for planning today, love. I had a really good time,â Chan said while giving you a kiss on your forehead. âOf course! After all, we should celebrate todayâs holidayâ
âWhat holiday?â He looked at you confused. âChildrenâs day!â As soon as you said that, Chanyeol let out a laugh.
âBabe, we donât have kids yet unless youâre referring to me as a kidâ
âNot yet at least. Within the next year, we will have someone new to celebrate Childrenâs Day with.â Chanyeol looked at you confused for a second until it came to his mind.Â
âYOUâRE PREGNANT?!â He shouted. Everyone nearby looked at him weirdly. You nodded and his tear ducts started working. Chan stood up from his chair, went to yours and kneeled down to put his head on your lap. He cried out of happiness while you lovingly stroke his hair. He was going to be a great father, you just know it.Â
D.O: Kyungsoo had planned a vacation to Costa Rica, a place you havenât been back since your freshman year of high school. Youâve always mentioned wanting to go back there and he had a month off so it worked out perfectly. You two landed in San Jose and stayed at the Four Seasons Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. The small bungalow was surrounded by the ocean and forests nearby. It was the most beautiful scenery you have never seen. Your high school trip couldnât possibly compare to the view and person you get to make new memories with. Kyungsoo then took you to a five star restaurant to celebrate your first night.Â
âLetâs get a bottle of wine to celebrate, sweetheartâ Kyungsoo said while looking at the menu.Â
âUm, I am not feeling wineâÂ
âReally? You love wine thoughâ
âThereâs something I havenât told you.â As soon as you said that, he looked up at you through his glasses.Â
âIâm pregnant,â you timidly said and he let out a big heart smile.Â
âAre you serious babe? How far?â
â2 months but I only found out like last weekâ
âIâm so happy. Thank you for giving me such a precious gift. Now we really have something to celebrate on our vacation,â he said while looking fondly at you.Â
Kai: The two of you were currently sitting at the dining table, looking at Kaiâs laptop for a new place. Jongin didnât know whether to get a house or an apartment. You and Nini had grown out of your small, shared 1-bedroom apartment. Though it was pretty big for the two of you, you wanted a bigger space for your kids.Â
âHoney, what about this one?â Jongin pointed a cute house, 30 minutes from Seoul and was in a secluded area.Â
âOh thatâs perfect! It has 4 bedrooms, a room for a nursery, rooms for our offices!âÂ
âPerfect then letâs make an appointment to see the houseâ
A couple of days later, you and Jongin had walked around the house and signed the mortgage for it. In just a couple of months, you two were starting to move in. While out shopping, you came across the baby section.Â
âBabe, can we go look in there?â You asked Jongin, who was busy looking at some weird table decorations.Â
âHoney, I know youâre excited to decorate the kidsâ room but we donât even have a baby yetâÂ
âWell, not until Mayâ
âWhat do you mean?âÂ
âIâm pregnant!âÂ
Jongin looked at you like you were just telling them that you had won the lottery.Â
âAre you serious or are you serious?âÂ
âBabe, Iâm serious!â He let out a huge smile and grabbed your hand. âI guess we have a nursery to decorate now donât weâ
Sehun: It was a Sunday and Sehun had today off. He had decided to take you out on a boba date at this cute dog cafe that had just opened a few days ago. The both of you walked into the small cafe hand in hand and was met with a couple of dogs jumping up at your guysâ legs. You went down on your knees to pet the little white dog that started to lick your hand.Â
âBabe, letâs not sit at the entrance,â Sehun said to you while laughing. He helped you stand up and went down to sit at a booth while you ordered both of your drinks. You sat down with yours and Sehunâs drink and started to drink yours. As soon as the liquid hit your throat, you started to feel nauseous and quickly ran to the bathroom. You threw up all of the reminding food in your stomach and went back down to sit across your husband, who had a look of terror on his face.Â
âAre you okay, y/n?â He looked at you concerned. You love boba so why did you just throw up.Â
âYea, Iâm fine. I guess the baby does not like bubble teaâ
âWhat baby. We donât have a bab- wait. Are you pregnant?â You nodded and he stared at you with a blank expression. Sehun then picked up a dog and said, âdid you hear that? Iâm going to be a father!â His smile overtook his face while he conversed with the doggies on his lap. Boy, you are going to have to take care of two babies.Â
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Somos Familia Ch 39: It Hits the Fan
Chapter 39: It Hits the Fan
Today was the day!
Miguel's birthday!
HĂ©ctor chuckled to himself as he finished shaving and wiping off the leftover shaving cream off his face, leaving behind the little tuft of hair that was his goatee. He had often considered shaving it off completely, being too old to have such juvenile facial hair, but at this point in his life it was practically trademarked. All his official photos and even illustrations of him all had it. He was practically stuck with it.
He chuckled again, letting his mind drift over these trivial things that made him smile. Any thoughts that didn't include what this day also was. Yes, he would put items on the ofrenda for his beloved daughter, tell her how much he missed her and loved her. Even give a respectful nod to Ernesto's foto. But other than that his thoughts were only on Miguel's birthday party. All the family would be there, everyone would feast on Miguel's favorite meals, presents, games, laughter and love. If he just concentrated on that then the pain wouldn't be so bad.
He didn't sleep well last night. He never did on the days leading up to Dia de Muertos. He vaguely remembered waking up crying once last night, but he was soon lulled back to sleep by his wife's calming presence and he was fine afterwards. She didn't even say anything when he awoke the next morning, and he was thankful for that. He could pass off the dark circles under his eyes on his age, and no one besides Imelda would notice.
He stepped into his walk-in closet and pushed aside Imelda's beautiful dresses to get to his clothes. He was feeling particularly festive today and pulled out his royal purple suit jacket off the hanger. Thinking about which tie would go well with hit, he looked up and saw something gleaming in between the hanging clothes.
The golden tooth of a grinning skull.
Immediately his mood dropped as he blankly stared at the headstock of his once prized guitar. He didn't feel any pride or joy in looking at it, hadn't even played it for over nine years, but he couldn't bring himself to hate it either. Many times he had considered giving it away or, in his more depressive states, simply throw it into the dumpster where he felt it belonged.
But he never could. Because his beloved wife had given it to him on his birthday, oh so many years ago.
'Y-you⊠bought this for me?! I don't know what to sayâŠ'
'You don't need to say anything Héctor. Feliz Cumpleaños. Now stop saving your money for it and go buy yourself some food, tonto.'
And then she had kissed him for the first time ever. On the cheek, yes, but it had made his whole head burst into flames and his ears buzz. It was the true beginning of their relationship, and this guitar was the key. It was a precious moment in his life: a fond memory. So no, he couldn't get rid of it so easily. But it wasn't going to stay in the closet anymore either. He'd have a talk with Chente later about sending it off to Rivera de La Cruz Records to be put on display to the public if they wanted it. It would still be his, but he wouldn't have to look at it anymore.
Out of sight, out of mind.
Picking up a red necktie he pushed a bunch of clothes over the guitar, concealing it again, and walked away.
--------------------------------------
"Facundo! Don't smear icing on your sister's dress! Anselmo! Osvaldo! Stop fighting, you're in front of company, show some respect! Ay, Dahlia hold the baby for me, would you? You're the oldest, you need to help PapĂĄ."
Miguel walked into the courtyard with Victoria to absolute mayhem, with Victoria pulling him out of the way just in time before a sticky pastry struck the wall where his head was. Nodding his thanks to his niece he looked out to see Elena and Charlie playing with five other small, very rambunctious children dressed in their best church clothes. Soiled in mud, breakfast foods and sans shoes of course, but there was an effort to get MartĂn and Rosita's children dressed nicely for the special occasion. MartĂn was standing over them, trying not to be knocked down by the running, screaming children as he also tried not to drop the baby girl in his arms. Matty was also seated at the table set outside, holding Clara and looking very smug that his own children were behaving themselves properly, and Julio was looking out at the chaos with a thousand-yard stare.
Sitting down after finally passing the baby to his eldest, MartĂn slumped into a chair with a groan and leaned towards Matty in exhaustion. "Remember the Nazis? How easy it was with them? They were so neat and organized. Precise."
"They blew your leg off, amigo."
"At this point in my life, I wish they blew something else off."
"PapĂĄ, PapĂĄ!" One of MartĂn's sons came up to him, pulling on his sleeve and smiling with gapped teeth. "Charlie wants to play horses! Can we, por favor?"
"Ay, all right." Reaching down underneath the table, MartĂn fumbled around a little with belts and straps before pulling off and giving the child his prosthetic leg. "Don't get it dirty and do not, I repeat, do not⊠stick forks in it again."
Suddenly Julio sat up with a smile and shouted. "Hey everyone! The birthday boy is here!"
All the little children stopped immediately to look at Miguel standing in the doorway, before screaming again and running into him for hugs. This time Victoria didn't help, and Miguel let out a squawk when he was bombarded with seven sticky children. "Feliz cumpleaños, Miguel!" several little voices yelled out.
"Agh!... Gr-gracias⊠AHH! You guys are squeezing me to hard!"
"Ah, there you are mijo." Imelda swooped in and managed to pry the little ones off her son, brushing down his hair and giving him a kiss. "Fashionably late to your own party, I see. You look very nice today."
"Gracias, MamĂĄ." Miguel said, pulling down his sleeves to cover up the wristbands that Victoria had made for him. 'I've gotta look nice for my performance tonight.' He said to himself. It wasn't a charro suit that he would have liked to wear, like a professional mariachi, but the bolo tie and shiny new boots were a nice touch.
"Well I hope your hungry." Imelda said. "We've been cooking up a storm all morning in that cramped little kitchen. And Wanda has made a delicious surprise for you."
"Cinnamon rolls!" Wanda said happily, placing a tray of pastries absolutely dripping with icing and candied nuts on the table. "My grandmother's recipe. I really hope you'll like them, but if you're anything like your brother then I know you're going to love them Miguel."
"No, I don't love them." Matty said, already double fisting the freshly glazed rolls with hungry eyes. "I'm damn near addicted to them. I crave them all day every day. But they're considered a Sunday food, and I'm forced to go without all week! It's torture, hermanito, pure torture."
"Which reminds me, since I'm making them on a Friday that means you've had them two times this week. So, we can skip them on Sunday and have them the next week."
"What?!"
"It's actually a little funny." Wanda said as Matty started to hoard as many rolls as he could in front of him. "Rosita's had three so far, but she's been pouring lime juice all over them. Lime juice! Can you believe it? How can you eat something so sour with something so sweet is beyond me!"
The others laughed a little and started to doll out the rest of the pastries to everyone else, with only Matty noticing the way MartĂn's face had turned pale white and he sunk lowly in his chair. "Lime juice?⊠Oh, no no no no noooâŠ"
Matty shook his head with pity, but mostly with exasperation, and ate his cinnamon roll. "CochinoâŠ"
Breakfast was delicious, of course, and the party continued throughout the day. There were party games, cake and ice cream and even more sugary delights that threw all the little children into an even more manic frenzy until they had finally passed out underneath the shade of the tree. The ofrenda had been set up, decorated with flowers and offerings for Imelda's parents, Leti, the late Facundo and even Matty's friend Barto, while the adults shared stories of their dearly departed despite HĂ©ctor's best efforts to divert their attention to another party game or business idea he had. Even Chente and his best friend Javier had come to whish him a happy birthday to join the festivities. They always seemed really cool to Miguel, and he also felt like they understood his frustration with the lack of music.
Miguel absently kept checking the clock every so often, time seeming to move achingly slow as it creeped towards seven. He had hidden his guitar underneath the ofrenda table, somewhere he knew his father wouldn't be near that much, so it would be ready to be picked up when he left.
But for now his concentration was on opening the last birthday present, then he could go get his real gift. "Wow, sneakers! Gracias TĂo Oscar y TĂo Felipe!"
"Not just any sneakers." Felipe said proudly.
"But the new Rivera Freeflyers!"
"The new line of children's shoes-"
"-that goes on the market next year."
"Designed by us of course."
"But you're the first kid to wear them!"
"Feliz cumpleaños!"
Smiling, Miguel set the shoes back in the box. "That's really cool. Thanks again. Is that the last present? Aw man, that's sad. But I guess good things can't last forever. Well, if we're done I have some stuff I-"
"Atata. Not so fast, Miguel." HĂ©ctor walked up to him, smiling widely. "Because I also have a present for you."
Sitting back down, glancing at the clock again, Miguel's smile drooped a little in uncertainty. "OkayâŠ"
Clearing his throat theatrically, HĂ©ctor stood next to his son in the center of the room spoke loud for all to hear. "Twelve years ago today, Miguel Rivera⊠beloved nephew, tĂo, brother and son⊠was brought into this world. A harrowing, frightful day for the whole family, especially for his dear mother, mi diosa, but one that ultimately ended in triumph. For that tiny baby was able to grow into a healthy little boy, and who has now grown into the fine young man standing before us all today."
"And since you are on the brink of adulthood, it's high time that we start thinking about your future, Miguel. Specifically what you're going to do for a living when you grow up. Now as much as we, and pretty much the whole world, loves your Mamå's shoes I get the feeling that's not where your passions truly lie. But after having a talk with Chente yesterday, we came to the conclusion that maybe your future lies with⊠Rivera de la Cruz Records."
Miguel noticed the way his father flinched at saying Ernesto's name, like he always did, but that didn't matter at the moment. There was a sudden bubbling of excitement and anticipation welling up inside of him, and he happily looked over at Chente for a confirmation. The former assistant, now CEO of the biggest movie and music production company in Mexico, gave him a silent smile and thumbs up. Turning back to his father with a big smile, HĂ©ctor continued.
"So your mother and I talked about it last night, and we both decided the best opportunity for you would be-"
Miguel could see it now: His name in lights, the crowd chanting his name, strumming a guitar just like, no better, than TĂo Nesto's. Singing songs that he had written himself, the crowd singing along with him because they were so good, so memorable. Immortalized for all time by doing the one thing he truly loved to do: Playing the guit-
"-to start training you in business, just like your brother! And to start with that, we're going to enroll you in business management classes!"
âŠ..
âŠ..
"⊠What?"
There was not a sound coming from anyone else in the room. Wanda, Julio and Coco looked at each other in complete disbelief and mild disgust, Matty slowly bringing his hand over his eyes in complete exasperation. The other adults in the room cringed and suddenly became very interested in their plates of leftover food and cake, except for Vicente and Javier. Poor Chente stared at HĂ©ctor like he had just condemned the man to his death, eyes wide and mouth agape in horror, while Javier was bent nearly in half in his chair. Shoulders shaking and biting down on his clenched fist, Javier was doing everything he could to not just bust out laughing at the entire fiasco in front of him. Oblivious to everyone's obvious displeasure of his grand announcement, HĂ©ctor continued.
"There's a school nearby. In San Benito. They specialize in training children for college. Mateo, you went there, remember?"
Nodding and smiling painfully, Matty said, "Yes, Papå. I remember going⊠I remember willingly going-"
"Well, you did so well there that we thought Miguel would too! Now, they've got a new program where they include room and boarding, and you can do your regular schooling there."
"Which" Imelda interjected, "I have already vetoed. They still have just the same smaller classes every other weekend that you went to, Mateo. I don't want our little boy to be away from home for so long."
"Right," HĂ©ctor said. "I agree with her. You'll still go to school here, so don't worry about that. You won't miss your friends or your family. But I feel like this is a great opportunity for you."
Miguel felt like congratulating himself for how well he was hiding his displeasure from his parents. No, displeasure was too light a word for how he was feeling. He felt like his face was about to break and shatter for how long he was holding the rictus of his earlier smile, and his heart and stomach freefalling down to his boots. He felt like he was slowly dying, and yet his parents were looking at him like they were doing this for his own good. And they were proud of it too!
Maybe it was his own fault: being so secretive about who he truly was and what his interests were. His parents didn't know who he was at all and thought he would be glad that they were practically dooming him to a fate worse than death.
Swallowing painfully, almost as if he felt like he was about to cry, Miguel croaked out. "W-well⊠That's⊠a lot to take in."
"It's just an idea, mijo." HĂ©ctor said gently, as if finally sensing that his son might not be totally ready for such a radical change in his life. "And you've got plenty of time to decide. We can talk about more in the morning alone."
"It's just that that- uhâŠ" Miguel fumbled a little with his wristbands hidden under his sleeves. "I'm not like Matty was when he was my age. I mean⊠I'm more like a normal kid, you know. Not a nerd like him."
"âŠHeyâŠ"
"I mean I not as smart as him. I won't be any good in a school like that."
"Don't worry about that, Miguel." Imelda said softly, placing her head gently on his head and smoothing his hair. "You'll have your family here to guide you. We'll help you every step of the way. You won't be alone."
"And to help you even more, here's another present!" HĂ©ctor said. From behind his back he pulled out a small briefcase, made from leather dyed in a brilliant shade of red, and the letters M.R. embedded on the front in solid gold. Placing in the boy's hands, HĂ©ctor smiled widely and clapped his hands with pride. "Look at that. Another businessman in the family! You look so professional already! Ha ha!"
Glancing down miserably at the briefcase, as if he were handed a live grenade instead, Miguel nodded and once more looked up at his parents with that same faked, gritting smile. "Gracias Papå⊠Gracias MamĂĄâŠ"
"Aw, feliz cumpleaños, my boy!" Héctor said as he hugged his son happily. "And don't just thank me. Thank Chente, since this was also his idea!"
"OhhhâŠ." Vicente moaned, trying to ignore the way Javiar was applauding loudly next him with that stupid smug grin of his. "Please don't thank meâŠ."
"Better watch out!" HĂ©ctor jokingly said. "One day Miguelito here will take your job out from under you!"
"âŠI'll do thatâŠ"
As the adults carried on with their conversation, Miguel kept looking at the briefcase in hands. It really was a beautifully designed briefcase, something that Matty probably carried around all the time and would probably love having himself, but all it did was make Miguel want to cry. This wasn't what he wanted at all. This wasn't him. And the fact that his own parents didn't see that in him, couldn't see that, broke his heart.
He would have started crying then and there until he felt a hand on his shoulder. Turning he saw Victoria standing next to him, giving him a look of sympathy and understanding. But also of defiance. Glancing down at the briefcase in disgust, she said, "Put that thing away and go get your guitar. Wanda and PapĂĄ will distract Abuelito and everyone else. It's showtime, Tio."
With a start Miguel looked over at the clock and gasped. All his inner turmoil had made him nearly forget about the contest! And it was in twenty minutes! With Victoria giving him an encouraging smile and a slight shove Miguel took off to the ofrenda room. Ducking underneath the tablecloth he flung the accursed briefcase underneath it and grabbed his prized guitar, feeling so much better now that it was in his hands. Glancing to his late sister's foto, and then to his TĂo Nesto's, Miguel gave them a watery smile.
"Wish me luck." He whispered, and then headed out the doorway.
No one noticed he, Victoria, Matty and Coco leave the party at all.
Except for one little girl with a big mouth.
---------------------------------
Picking up a small, fried grasshopper from the bowl on the side table, he twisted it to and fro for his grandson to see. It was such a lovely surprise: Here he thought there wasn't many chapulines left for the season, and then all of a sudden Julio gifted him with a heaping bowl of the crunchy little things! Then Wanda had come up to him, saying that his grandchildren wanted to spend some time with their grandfather and to tell them stories. He was more than happy too, even if it was odd that he and the children were practically shoved into the kitchen and the door was slammed shut. But for now, with Clara babbling happily in his arm and with Charlie's rapt attention, he continued his story.
"So at the end of the day, there I was: Scratched up by dried alfalfa, bitten all over by every mosquito there ever was, and with a bag of caught grasshoppers slung over my shoulder. I took it to old Señor Perales and he would fry them up for the customers, and for my pay he would give me a handful of them on a stale tortilla. Sometimes that would be the only thing that I would get to eat for the whole day. But I didn't mind much, it was worth it for me. They're good, no?"
"They're salty." Charlie said as he crunched one with a grimace.
"SĂ. Salty, crunchy and my favorite snack. And that was the first job I ever had at four years old. Your age, mijo! Grasshopper catcher extraordinaire."
"My friend Timmy likes to pick out earthworms from his Mommy's garden and eats them too, even with dirt on them! Is that the same thing, Grandpa?"
"No, your friend's just odd."
"Oh."
The sound of the door being opened caused the three of them to look, only to see Elena poking her head in. HĂ©ctor was immediately worried: His granddaughter looked very troubled, staring at the floor and lip trembling, trying to decide if she should come in or not. Shifting the baby in his arms to free his hand he held it out. "Elena? Is there something wrong?"
Nodding a little, she slowly edged her way in and closed the door. "My tummy hurtsâŠ"
"Aww, too much cake and ice cream, huh?" HĂ©ctor asked kindly, squeezing her hand when she took it. "I guess it also didn't help that your cousins gave you too much excitement as well. Well, if you want I can walk you home-"
"It's not that, Abuelito." Elena said softly. "My tummy hurts because I feel guilty."
"Guilty? Did you and your sister have a fight? Because if you said or did something to make her upset I'm sure she'll forgive you. That's what a family who loves each other does, mija. We always forgive each other with time."
Eyes widening, Elena looked up at her grandfather with a slight glimmer of hope. "Really? Family forgives each other for anything?. They don't⊠get really mad and hate them for it?"
"Of course not."
Elena smiled a little at that, looking like she felt a little better. Then her smile faded, and she shook her head. "No, no⊠PapĂĄ says that I should always do what my parents sayâŠ"
Blinking in confusion, Héctor nodded in agreement. "Uh, yes⊠Yes, children should do what their parents say. Your Papå's right."
"BuuuutâŠ"
"âŠBut?"
"But you're MamĂĄ's papĂĄâŠ" Elena said slowly, nervously picking at her fingers and biting her lip hard in agitation. "So, she has to do whatever you say⊠right?"
Now he was growing concerned. Pulling his granddaughter close to him, HĂ©ctor made Elena look at him squarely in the eye. "Elena, if something is wrong with your MamĂĄ you need to tell me, claro? Now, what's going on?"
"âŠ.WellâŠ"
------------------------
"Congratulations, Señor Magallanes."
"Oh you too, Mrs. Rivera."
Chuckling and clinking their mugs of coffee, Julio and Wanda sat on the old boarded up well and each took a sip of the hot brew. They watched as the Reyes children ran around the courtyard in a wild frenzy, having woken up from their sugar comas and putting an end to their parents' moment of peace and quiet, and smiled smugly to themselves. Both because they were thankful that their own children were not as wild and rambunctious, and also for a job well done.
"Nice work on getting the fried grasshoppers so late and getting so many. I'm told they're a seasonalâŠdelicacy." Wanda grimaced at the word.
"Gracias. And that was a nice move of giving him your kids. 'Charlie wants to hear all about you when you were his age!'" Julio chuckled at that. "It really was a nice distraction."
Wanda hummed and gave a sultry smile, gazing off into the distance. "Well, Matthew has always said that I am⊠a master of distraction. In more ways than one"
"âŠUh, rightâŠ" Taking an uncomfortable gulp from his coffee mug and coughing awkwardly, Julio changed the subject. "So when should they be back?"
"Well Miguel is the first act." Wanda said. "So it'll start at seven, he'll sing his little song, then Matthew and Coco will bring him right back. So I guess they should be back in about half an hour? Plenty of time before anyone notices they're gone. And if they ask we'll just say he went to a friend's house."
"Thirty minutes?" Julio asked, a little downhearted at the thought. "So, he won't get to stay to see if he wins?"
Wanda nodded in sympathy. "Yes, it is a shame. But honestly do you really think he would win? I mean, I know he's very good, but he'd be going up against musicians who have been playing for much longer than he's even been alive. It seems a little unlikely, right?"
"SĂ, you're right⊠It still would be amazing if he did, though."
"Honestly I think the poor boy just wants to be heard. Can you blame him? Especially after that⊠gift his parents gave him. UghâŠ"
"SĂ. Let him have some fun for one night." Julio nodded, bring the cup back up to take a sip. "Thirty minutes. Plenty of time. Go out, perform, come back. No one will suspect a thing."
"All will be well." Wanda agreed.
The sudden slamming of a door hitting the wall startled everyone in the courtyard. All the children skidded to a halt, the adults stopped talking immediately, and all eyes turned towards a very livid HĂ©ctor Rivera.
"MIGUEL IS GOING TO PLAY THE GUITAR IN THE PLAZA?!"
Clara started to cry in fright in her grandfather's arms, but HĂ©ctor paid her no heed as he marched up Julio and Wanda. "Elena just told me that Miguel's playing in the contest! Julio, is that true?!"
Julio stared at his father-in-law, chalk white and looking like he was about to drop dead on the spot. His mouth worked itself up and down, but all that came out was choked squeaks and croaks. "Uh-uhâŠuh uhâŠahâŠuh."
With a growl, HĂ©ctor turned his glare to his daughter-in-law. "Wanda, did you know anything about this?!"
Wanda, also much whiter than usual, managed to give a nervous half smile and shrugged with a weak chuckle. "Uh⊠No hablo es-pan-ol?..."
"Forget it!" HĂ©ctor shouted, placing the now screaming baby in her mother's arms and turning out to the exit. "You all want to go behind my back?! Fine! I'll put a stop to this myself!"
As HĂ©ctor left the courtyard in a mad dash, Julio wilted with a moan. "No no no no! This has all gone to hell. We had one job to do and we failed even that! Matty and Coco are going to kill us!"
Wanda shook her head, trying to calm down her poor baby. "No, they won't!"
"You're right. Only Coco is going to kill only me!" Julio cried. "Elena, why did you tell Abuelito?! You promised you wouldn't!"
Elena was sobbing by now. This wasn't supposed to happen: Abuelito had said that he wouldn't be angry, that he wouldn't hate Miguel for what he did. But it was all a lie! "You don't keep secrets from family, PapĂĄ! I couldn't stand lying to Abuelito!"
"What is going on here?!"
They all turned to see Imelda, Rosita, MartĂn and the twins coming out of the ofrenda room, confused as to why everyone was either in shock, scared or crying their eyes out. With a sigh Wanda came up to them. "Oh, MamĂĄ Imelda, you might as well know now. Miguel was going to play the guitar at the music competition in the plaza-"
"What?!"
"- and PapĂĄ HĂ©ctor just found out. He's going after them to stop him. I've never seen him look so mad! I think he's going to do something-"
"StupidâŠ" Imelda finished, hitching up her skirts to run as fast as she could in her high heeled boots. "Dios mio, HĂ©ctor! HĂ©ctor come back!"
"Oh Rosita, could you take the baby?" Wanda asked as she handed Clara to Rosita. "I need to go to! Matthew might need my help! Come on Julio, Coco needs you to!"
"Wait! Coco will need my help as well!" Rosita cried out. "MartĂn, mi amor, hold the baby and hold down the fort. Oscar, Felipe! Let's go!"
"Wait, what?!" MartĂn cried out, watching helplessly as all the adults ran out of the Rivera complex, leaving him alone with nine children all under eight years old, screaming and crying with fright. Looking at Clara in one arm and his own crying daughter in the other, MartĂn growled in frustration. "Oh sure! Leave all the kids with the one guy who can't run away! I see how it is! This is discrimination! I am a war veteran, I deserve some respect and a break!"
"Don't worry, TĂo MartĂnâŠ" Elena sadly said, taking Clara away from her uncle and holding the baby close. "I'll help you with the babiesâŠ"
"Ay, gracias Elenita." MartĂn sighed in relief, patting her head gratefully. "You're a good kid."
Burying her face in her little cousin's blanket, Elena tried to hide as the tears came pouring out again with her sobs. She wasn't good. She didn't deserve the praise. She deserved to be punished, not Miguel. Miguel was going to be kicked out of the family. Abuelito hated him now.
It was all her fault.
----------------------------------------
"I knew it." Miguel moaned as he, his siblings and Victoria made their way to the plaza. Clutching his guitar for dear life, as if he was afraid it would be ripped away from him, he hung is head low while Victoria guided him by his shoulders. "I knew PapĂĄ would never even consider letting me play music, he just hates it too much. I'm gonna have to play in secret for the rest of my life."
"Yeah." Victoria sighed with a pout. "I guess I'm going to have to as well. I'll never get to dance in the likes of La Scala or the Royal Opera House. I'd even settle for dancing at a rec center at this point."
"Cheer up, both of you." Matty said. "Miguel, you know Papå doesn't hate music. He just⊠has some hang-ups about it that is hard for him to overcome. A lot of bad things happened to him, and he attributes it to music. You understand, s�"
"No, I don't." Miguel said. "And that's easy for you to say. PapĂĄ sang and danced with all three of you and let you play instruments. I never had that."
"That's not true, Miguel." Coco said. "PapĂĄ used to sing to you all the time, especially when he tucked you into bed. And he played his guitar for you, don't you remember that?"
"No. I was a baby, Coco."
Coco tsked and shook her head in mock sorrow. "Well that is a shame. You should remember stuff like that. I, for one, can remember stuff quite vividly all the way from when I was about two years old. It's a gift I possess."
Breaking out of his current funk, Miguel looked up at his older sister and smirked. "Gee Coco, maybe you should be the one in the talent show instead of me."
Matty barked out a laugh and nodded. "Yeah, you could tell everyone what you had for breakfast in May of 1936."
"Or recite an old shopping list you made ten years ago." Victoria added.
Coco huffed and crossed her arms with pout. "All right, all three of you can go kiss a burro."
"Well we can't do that now, because," Matty said as they rounded the corner, "we have arrived at our destination."
As they all walked into the plaza, Miguel smiled when he saw the gazebo decked out in the familiar decorations for Dia de Muertos: garlands of cempazuchitl flowers, papel picado and, most excitingly, posters for the contest. He also saw several other musicians dressed up in charro suits and practicing on their own instruments. They had probably been practicing for much longer than he ever had and were probably better than him too. But Miguel didn't care if he won or lost the contest, he just wanted to perform in front of people. To show them all that he had what it took to be a musician. And luckily for him there were plenty of people who had come to watch.
A very⊠large amount of people.
Practically the whole town. Even other kids from his school were there.
Suddenly Miguel felt a nauseous curl in his belly, and his breath seemed to stick in his throat. Without realizing it he took a step backwards, softly bumping into his sister, and flinched in surprise when she knelt down to speak to him.
"Miguel?" Coco asked softly. "If you're nervous you don't have to go up there."
"Wh-what?" Miguel asked, wincing when his voice gave an unexpected squeak and trying to cough it away. "Nervous? I'm not nervous!"
"You're really pale Miguel, and you started sweating bullets in less than five seconds." Victoria pointed out. "It's actually quite impressive."
"Callate!" Miguel grumbled.
"It's alright if you've changed your mind, Miguel." Coco said and rubbed his shoulder comfortingly. "We can just go right back to the museum, and PapĂĄ will have never known you were here."
The very mention of his father, how much he hated music, how he would be forced to play music in secret again if he backed away now, how this might actually be his last chance to perform before he was to go to that stupid business school, steeled something inside of Miguel. Straightening up, jaw clenched tight and his guitar held up like a shield, he shook his head vigorously. "No! No way! I'm gonna play in mariachi plaza if it kills me!"
"That's the spirit!" Matty said. "And good thing too because it looks like you're on now!"
"What?!"
"They're beckoning you over! Knock 'em dead and break a leg, gordito!" With a hearty slap on the back Matty propelled his little brother towards the stage. As they all watched the boy meekly walk to the contest coordinators, Matty leaned into Coco. "He can sing, right?"
Coco nodded. "Of course! He has the voice of an angel, you're going to be blown away."
"Either that or he's going to blow his dinner all over the stage floor." Victoria said.
Miguel took his place next to the steps of the gazebo, turning back to wave at the siblings and niece, who all returned it with a thumbs up. With his back turned to them again Matty sighed wistfully. "PapĂĄ would really love this. He would be so proud. If⊠you knowâŠ"
"If he was like he used to be?"
"SiâŠ" Matty nodded. "It just doesn't feel the same without him here. Miguel is so much like how our father was: Filled with a love of music, bursting with creativity. Miguel may look up to TĂo Nesto, but I see PapĂĄ in him more than any of us."
"You're right." Coco sighed. "I wish PapĂĄ were here to see this too."
"SOCORRO! MATEO!"
Coco and Matty immediately felt their hearts stop, blood seize up, insides clench and air leave their lungs as they heard their full names bellowed out from behind. Turning around they saw a sight they had never seen before. HĂ©ctor Rivera, normally so jovial and mild-mannered with all he encountered, marching towards them red-faced and glaring holes into their very souls. As he got closer and closer to them, Coco whispered, "Itakeitback, Itakeitback!..."
Placing himself in front of his sister and niece like a shield, Matty leaned causally on his cane and smiled shakily. "H-hola, padre! Qué tal? I d-didn't expect to see you come to the plaza today. They're having a music contest right now so you might want to go back and-"
"Would you both care to explain to me," HĂ©ctor said as he reached them, very close to seething like a bull. "why I had to hear from Elena that my son is going to play the guitar, on a stage, in front of an audience?!"
With a loud groan Matty turned to glare at Coco. "You told la Lengua Larga about the plan?!"
"I told you it was a bad idea, MamĂĄ."
"So this was your idea!" HĂ©ctor growled as he glared at Coco. Distantly they could hear Imelda calling out as she was making her way to the plaza herself, but they all ignored her for the moment. "You're letting your brother perform? After what nearly happened to you? What did happen to your godfather?!"
Coco glared back. "What happened to TĂo Nesto was terrible, but it was an accident that could have happened anywhere! It had nothing to do with music! Why can't you see that?"
"It has everything to do with what happened to him!" HĂ©ctor shouted. "And I will not have the same thing happen to my-"
"Put your hands together for our first contestant, Miguel 'De la Cruzito' Rivera!"
As a loud smattering of applause and cheers erupted, the family turned to see Miguel taking the small stage of the gazebo. Smiling nervously and waving at the crowd, he didn't seem to notice the brewing turmoil taking place amongst the audience. HĂ©ctor gritted his teeth and was about to make his way towards his son to put an end to this nonsense, when one of the nearby bands decided to strike up some intro music for the young guitarist. After all, the son of the world's greatest songwriter, the patron of Santa Cecilia, deserved a grand entrance for his musical debut.
And they couldn't have picked a worse song.
As the trumpets blasted the upbeat version of Remember Me and the audience clapped along to the beat, Matty and Coco moaned in dread and instantly went into damage control. Coco and Victoria shouted in vain over the crowd to get the musicians to stop, but their voices were lost among the deafening cheers and song. Imelda heard the song playing from the distance, and with a curse tried to run even faster to her husband. Matty grabbed his father by the shoulders and shook him, trying to direct his attention to him. "PapĂĄ! PapĂĄ, listen to me. Listen to my voice. It's okay. It's just a song. Come with me, we'll get you out of hereâŠ"
It had been about a year since he had heard that song last. Not intentionally, of course, but when a song is that popular people are bound to either sing it aloud or try to play it themselves. One such incident occurred when he was out with Elena for a treat of ice cream, when suddenly he had heard it. A quite lovely rendition on a violin by that scarf-wearing kid with the weird facial hair whose named escaped him. But it was enough to do the trick. Several painful minutes of him hunched low to the ground, pressing the heels of his hands into his ears hard, trying to get his breathing under control. His own granddaughter, seven years old at the time, was forced to take action herself: Swatting that kid with her shoe in order to stop him from playing, then sitting with him silently and comfortingly until the panic had finally passed. They had both lost their ice creams on the ground that day, but the two had grown even closer due to the experience.
But those same feelings were rushing back just like that last time: Nothing had changed. Immediately his heart started hammering and it became hard to breathe, his insides squirmed and clenched painfully and those awful visions flashed in his mind again. As the song continued he didn't see his eldest son frantically trying to get his attention, but his youngest daughter wheezing her last breaths in his arms. Of Ernesto walking away from him to the stage, underneath the bell that would eventually turn him into nothing but a smear. And the blood, so much blood. He could smell it, practically taste it.
He was about to try to block out the sounds like he always did and then curl up in a ball, when he happened to glance at the stage again. Ernesto was there, about to perform with the bell perch precariously over his head. But no, that wasn't Ernesto standing there. It was-
"MIGUEL! NO!"
Breaking Matty's grip on his arms he made a run for the gazebo, pushing and shoving others out of the way. He didn't hear their exclaims of alarm and pain as they were roughly shoved aside or to the ground, nor the cries of his family as they begged him to wait, to come back. No, all he heard was that damned song playing loudly in his head, now a ticking timer to the point where, at the end, his boy would be no more.
Miguel didn't notice his father parting through the crowd at breakneck speed, too busy tugging on the emcee's sleeve to tell him to make those musicians stop playing the song 'That's the song I'm going to play.' But it was too late, and as the band played the last triumphant note he turned back to the crowd with an eye roll and hefted his guitar up to begin to play the song everyone had just heard.
Just in time to see his father diving straight for him.
Imelda reached her oldest children just in time to see HĂ©ctor tackle Miguel and send them both flying to the back of the gazebo. The incident was so shocking that aside from a large gasp from the crowd, it became so still and quiet. Quiet enough that everyone was able to hear the sickening crunch once the two of them landed in a crumpled heap.
A flash of terror made it's way down Imelda and her children's spines. "NoâŠ" she breathed, and then quickly made her way to the gazebo herself, the others following her.
The song was over, put panic was still surging through HĂ©ctor as he got up and immediately started checking over his boy. "Miguel! Are you all right?! Sit up, let me see!" He patted his body up and down, trying to see if there were any injuries, thankfully finding none. But the boy seemed shocked, and frantically he cupped the boys face to look in his eyes. "Did you hit your head? Look at me, mijo-"
"PapĂĄâŠ"
Miguel's eyes were widened with shock, but surprisingly the wind was not knocked out of him nor was he scuffed or marked in any way from the surprise tackle. The guitar in his hands, however, was not so lucky. It had taken the brunt of the assault and protected the boy from harm, but it had not survived. Three of the strings had snapped right off and were coiled in bent angles, the body was completely caved in from the center hole and up, and the neck had broken cleanly in half, now only connect by the remaining strings. His beloved guitar was now destroyed. His father had destroyed it.
"What-? Why?... What have you done?" Miguel whispered as he gripped the broken neck and tried in vain to get it to stick back into the position. "It's ruinedâŠ"
HĂ©ctor looked down at the broken guitar in his son's hands, taking in the cheap gold paint that had been sloppily painted all over it. The crude designs done in brown, and the headstock. That same mocking skull that looked so much like his own, except for the one personal detail that he had made for his older brother: The thin mustache above perfectly white grinning teeth. His worries and concerns over his son instantly vanished. He was fine. Now what came back was more comfortable, easier for him to handle: Rage.
"Where the hell did you learn to play guitar?!"
Miguel's attention snapped back to his father, and he shrunk back at the ferocious anger meekly. Before he was able to squeak out a pitiful answer, he felt eyes on him. Turning slightly he paled when he saw everyone in the crowd looking at him with morbid curiosity. The whole town had watched as his supposed debut had crumbled to ash, his most prized possession had been reduced to kindling, and his father was now bearing down on him about to start a very public fight.
It was all ruined. It was too much for him, and the poor boy broke.
With a choked-out cry of heartbreak Miguel flung what was left of his guitar away, shot up to his feet and fled from the gazebo. The crowd gave him enough room to make his getaway and he was grateful. He didn't want to be held back, didn't want to be touched by anyone. Especially his family. He heard his PapĂĄ angrily yelling at him to come back, his MamĂĄ pleading with him to do so as well. But he couldn't even look at anyone right now.
He just ran and ran, broken sobs escaping as he gasped and panted.
He hated his birthday.
#coco#coco pixar#pixar coco#coco fanfic#Hector Rivera#miguel rivera#mama imelda#mama coco#worst#birthday#EVER
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Do you send message to your friends and other family members on their birthday to wish them? Well the answer to this question is yes! Everybody does this. On the very special day of your loving and dear friend, you always send them birthday wishes. This is the easiest yet sweetest thing we can do for our friends or relatives on their birthday. And if you are one of those, who search for the best birthday message before opening a chat box, this post is only for you, as we bring for you Happy birthday messages in this post, perhaps the best and certainly lovely happy birthday message for friends, brother, sister and other relatives, which will surely bound you to copy and send to your dear once. Â
Birthday messages
We have compiled messages according to your relations with people, So that you can find your desired birthday wishes easily without scrolling down and giving more time in finding the relevant one. Weather it is your friends birthday, brothers birthday or sisters birthday, Find beautiful lines for everyone to wish them on their day, âHappy Birthday to youâ. Above all we have shared all categories in table, so you can find person specific wishes easily.Â
Quick links:Â
Birthday message for FriendHappy Birthday message for brotherBirthday message for sisterBirthday message for GirlfriendHappy Birthday message for Boyfriend
 Birthday message for friend
A friend is one of the best and integral part of our life, and we are always excited on our friends birthday, and solicit party throughout the day, But at first, we never forget to wish them on their special day, because we are only entitled for a party, if we had wish them after 12 at night. So here comes best birthday message for friend, you can send to make a place in their heart and make them feel so special.Â
1. Happy birthday to a friend, who is always there to support and help others, May you get what you deserve on your day.
2. On your special day, I wish you Joy, luck and progress which you truly deserve. Happy birthday dear.
3. I hope, your birthday is just the beginning of a year, full of happiness. Happiest Birthday.Â
4. I wish you great success and happiness for the very special day of yours, Happy Birthday.
5. Congratulations for becoming 12 months more experienced and wiser.Â
6. Thank you for always being there for me. I am so lucky to have you as my best friend. Happy Birthday my lovely friend.Â
7. I hope your birthday be as sweet as the cake. And the coming year is filled with as much joy as you bring your friends! Happy birthday.
8. I wish you Good food, good drinks, great friends, and lots of birthday presents on your special day. May you have the perfect birthday.
Birthday message for brother
Brother is the most close person in our life, who knows everything about you. There is always a very special bond and connection between two brothers. Wishing you brother on his birthday is always so exciting. But rather than wish them with simple text, let us write something unique this birthday. Find below best birthday messages for brother.
1. You always bring happiness to the people around you. Today, enjoy your special day. Happy birthday brother.Â
2. To the most wonderful brother in the world, Thank you for being so supportive and helpful. I wish you lots of happiness on your day. Happy birthday.
3. To my Amazing brother, wishing you Growth, peace and happiness in your life. Happy birthday.Â
4. Happy Birthday to you my brother! Your presence makes my life more colorful and joyful! Wishing you all the precious things on your birthday that life can bring!
5. May god bless every day of your life with A ray of Sun, A touch of Hope, A glint of Joy and A drop of Love. Happy Birthday dear Brother.Â
6. Happy Birthday, to my sweet brother. May God bless you with all his warmth and care. May this day brings loads of excitement and euphoria to your world.
7. The best way to enjoy your life is to forget your age, and enjoy your memories. Happy birthday.
Things to remember while sending birthday message / what makes the best birthday wish
How to write a perfect message on somebodyâs birthday. What should we include in our message. These are few points that need to be taken into account before sending any wishes. That is why one should not just copy a text from somewhere or forward that to your loved oneâs, after all itâs their very special day that comes once in a year. Find below what should a good message contains-
A message should includes birthday personâs name with a greeting like Hi, Hello etc. This will make your text to stand apart and fill your relatives with special feelings. You know, people love to read their names in messages they receive.
 Good blessings: Your wish should includes blessings for your friends, This may be related to his career, future growth, health or family. A person always expect blessings to be poured in by their well wishes specially on his birthday.
Some emotions or Love â You can add few extra lines accordingly as how much you know the person, this should be filled with little emotions or love.
Birthday messages for sister
A relation of brother to his sister is always very special and can not be described. No matter how much they fight, but the love they share with each other is unconditional. Find the cutest birthday message for your sister on her lovely day.Â
1. Blow the candles and eat lots of Cake, It is your birthday.Â
2. Dear Loving Sister, May you shine with the divine light, May you have peace with no fear and worries. God bless you and keep you safe always. Happy Birthday to the loving and caring sister.
3. Wishing you so much happiness and Joy on your day, May you get what you deserve, Because you may wish less, but you deserve the best. Happiest birthday to my sister.
Birthday message for Girlfriend
Girlfriendâs birthday is the most exciting day, as both make the day memorable together. Your girlfriend always expect a perfect surprise from her boyfriend on her special day. You always want to plan something unique and innovative for her birthday and try to bring smile to her face. But do not remember to wish her at sharp 12 oâclock at night, when the day changes and her birthday date turn up. You may want to call her up and wish her, but sending a beautiful and adorable birthday message to girlfriend can add more love to your relationship. Find some messages below to make her feel so special.
1. You make each day special, just by being yourself. May your day be as special as you are. Happy Birthday sweetheart.
2. To the most beautiful woman on the earth, May god bless you with full warmth and care. Today, tomorrow and forever. Happy birthday.
3. May your coming days be as special as your birthday. And i can do anything to make them happen. Happy birthday my dear love.
4. Every passing year, You are growing wiser and prettier. Stay blessed always. Happy birthday.
5. May you feel loved, desired, and pampered today on your birthday! Happy Birthday Honey.
6. Happy Birthday to the most adorable girl, who made my life lovable and so special. May you stay happy forever and you get whatever you desire in your life.Â
Birthday messages for Boyfriend
On Birthday, every man wants her girlfriend to wish him first. As the birth date comes, he always expect that her girlfriend to send a message filled with lots of love and feelings and pour all blessings on him. You may not be able to form a solid message for your boyfriend. Here we are helping you find the best birthday wish for boyfriend.Â
1. Everyday with you is a special day, But today let me make it more special with all my love and hugs on your birthday. Happy birthday sweetheart.Â
2. Happy birthday to the one, who owns my heart. I wish you success on your birthday. May you be better with every passing year.
3. You are the one, everybody would want to have in her life. Happy birthday my Life!
4. May your day be as interesting and charming as you are. Happy birthday to you.
Birthday wishes, New collection of best happy birthday wishes
Happy birthday song, Download and listen popular songs on birthday
Birthday Greeting Cards, eCards, Happy Birthday Greetings
Happy Birthday Status for whatsapp, à€Źà€°à„à€„à€Ąà„ à€žà„à€à„à€à€ž
Best ways to wish Happy Birthday
You know there are so many different methods you can wish your friends on their birthday as following-
Send them a whatsapp message at night at sharp 12am. This will create a very special and close buddy feeling for you in your friend.
Update your whatsapp status dedicating birthday person with lovely wishes in it, this may include his//her picture and a wish.
Send them a voice message on whatsapp with a shout out â Happy birthday with his name.
Dedicate a birthday song to him. Download and send it to him on his whatsapp number or share on social media tagging him.
Create a poster for him or download from any website (if you are not a good designer or do not have time) and send to him, This will surely make him feel great about your efforts.
Call your friends/relatives directly at night or early morning to wish him birthday, always be ready with some good birthday wishes to pour onto him as soon as he picks the call.
Reach out to him personally at their home and give him surprise with a birthday cake or gifts.
We always want to give you best experience with good messages, that is why our priority is to provide you with very touching and heart felt wishes. Find below so many messages on birthday, which can be sent to friends, family members and other relatives on their happy day. because needless to say this make birthday person day even more special.
#happy birthday message#birthday message#birthday wishes#happy birthday wishes#birthday wishes for friend#birthday message for friends#birthday message for brother
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