#but hey can you tell why this is one is for you right?!

[moonstruckme]

emt marauders where they go away on a hokiday and reader gets sick but hides it so they can have fun?

cw: some phlegm talk? idk hardly a trigger but a little gross depending on your tolerance of all that

emt!marauders x fem!reader ♡ 1.4k words

“Ow,” Sirius whines. 

“Sorry,” says Remus, clearly being as gentle as he can in smoothing sun lotion onto Sirius’ pinkened shoulders. “It wouldn’t hurt if you’d reapplied earlier.” 

“No one else had to reapply,” he grumbles, then hisses as Remus moves to a new spot. 

“You’re extra special.” James simpers, kissing Sirius’ cheek. “You can always hang back in the room if it hurts too much, you know.” 

Sirius glares. “I’m not going to sit in the room by myself while you all play Baywatch and make out in the ocean.” 

“We don’t do that.” Remus frowns. 

“I’ll stay with you,” you offer. You hope your eagerness doesn’t sound as obvious to your boyfriends as it does to you.

Sirius softens some. “You don’t have to miss out for me, baby.” 

“I don’t mind.” 

“I’m not going to waste a day of holiday anyway,” he says decisively, just as Remus puts the cap back on the sun lotion. “Onward!” 

You try not to deflate, resigning yourself to spending the afternoon as you spent the morning and all of yesterday before that: camped out under an umbrella, using toilet paper stolen from your hotel room as tissues when the boys aren’t looking. 

“Can we stop for ice cream on the way?” you ask as you make your way out of the room. 

“Again?” James laughs. “Angel, at this rate you’re going to be going through sugar withdrawal on the flight home.” 

You shrug. “That place by the boardwalk is really good.” 

You wouldn’t actually know. Your taste buds have gone rather lackluster since the onset of your cold; you wouldn’t know much difference if you got strawberry or bubblegum or peppermint candy cane. It makes your sore throat feel much better for a few minutes, though. 

Ordinarily one of your boyfriends might push back against you eating sweets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but because it’s a holiday you’re sitting on the sand finishing off a cone of pink something a short time later. Sirius has taken up residence by your legs, slowly covering them with sand to fulfill his vision of making you a mermaid tail. You’re trying not to wince as the sun worsens your headache. 

You want to enjoy your trip, you really do, but the beach is just too hot and too bright and too coarse when what you really long for is your bed and a cup of honeyed tea. No one drinks honeyed tea at the beach. You wouldn’t even know where to begin to look for some. 

“Do you think you ought to have scales?” Sirius asks. 

You hum, furrowing your brows like you’re paying attention. “I think so. Most mermaids do, right?” 

“Probably right.” Sirius leans forward, kissing you before you can stop him. “Brilliant girl.” 

You think you’re a horrible girlfriend. Even when he does sweet things like that, you want him gone badly. Before Sirius got sunburned and took shelter under the umbrella with you, it was him and James in the water all day long and Remus lying next to you but too absorbed in his book to notice you occasionally sneezing or blowing your nose. With Sirius here, you can feel the buildup in your sinuses like a dam ready to break. 

You know it would be easier to just tell your boyfriends you’re feeling under the weather. Easier for you, but not easier for them. They’d want to look after you, and they’d be giving up their own fun to do it. You won’t ruin their holiday because you’ve got the sniffles. 

“Hey, if you lay back I can give you a mermaid torso too.” 

You frown. “Don’t mermaids have human torsos?” 

“Yeah, but with a seashell bra.” 

Before you can come up with an excuse for why you don’t want to lie down and let Sirius cover you up to your neck in sand, James comes bounding over. He’s dripping wet dangerously near to Remus, who pulls his book closer with a reproachful look. 

“No one wants to come out in the water with me?” James asks. 

Sirius pouts at him. “You need a playmate, babe?” 

“Yeah, I do actually.” 

“Too bad. Get the sun to be nicer to me, and I’ll come out.”

“Why is that my job?” James looks to you, pleading. “Come on, lovie. You haven’t been in the water nearly this whole time. Do you really want to go home without having been in the ocean?” 

Guilt eats at you. “I’m okay,” you say, apology in your tone. “I’m having a good time here.” 

“Why don’t you go for a little while?” asks Remus. You hadn’t realized he was paying attention. “Just to say you did.” 

“Don’t make me carry you out there,” James teases. 

You try to smile before eating the last piece of your cone. “Okay,” you say, “just for a little while.” 

“Fine.” Sirius throws up his hands as though he’s lost a long and onerous argument. “If you’re going to leave me here with boring old Remus” —he drops a wink, though Remus only rolls his eyes— “I’ll come too.” 

James half drags you both to the water, you and Sirius grimacing at the sun for different reasons. The water isn’t terribly cold, but you shiver still, grateful when James pulls you close before starting to make his way out to a sandbar he found this morning.

Only, the sandbar seems to have gone away further than where he left it. James and Sirius don’t mind, laughing and splashing each other and trying to coax you into their games. You smile tersely, using all your energy to continue swimming. You’ve gone far enough out that the tips of your toes are barely skimming the sand, though when you turn around Remus and your umbrella really don’t appear so far away. 

It’s because you’ve turned to look that the wave takes you by surprise. 

You’re underwater in an instant, thrown head over heels and tumbling like a piece of litter caught in the tide. You choke on saltwater. It takes you what feels like forever to figure out which way is up, but then you push down on the sea floor, shoving yourself towards the surface. 

You emerge coughing. Sea water streaming from your nose and mouth, tears welling in your eyes. It stings. 

You hear the boys laughing, James’ warm hand landing between your shoulders. He rubs consolingly. 

“Aw, sorry, lovie. It happens. That really took you down, huh?” 

You try to laugh along with them, but it’s hard when saltwater seems to flow endlessly from your nose. You realize at the same time as James that it’s not all saltwater. 

“Whoa. Needed a purge, did you?”

“Sorry.” You wipe your nose on your arm, rinsing it off in the water. You feel disgusting and embarrassed. 

“No, don’t be.” James palms your face, smiling as he wipes the couple of tears that have escaped your eyes. “This is what saltwater does. It cleans out your nasal passages. It’s a good thing, getting all the muck out.” 

You’re about to respond with something equally positive when you sneeze violently. More snot comes out of your nose. 

“Shit, baby,” says Sirius. “You were really clogged up. You feeling sick or something?” 

You think that maybe it could be a joke, but your guilty expression gives you away. 

James blinks. “Really?” 

“I’m fine,” you say. You know it’s not very convincing when you’re trying and failing to stop the globs of mucus leaving your nostrils. 

“You’re sick.” Sirius sounds aghast. “For how long? Why didn’t you say?”

“A couple days,” you admit, “but it’s really not bad. I didn’t want to ruin everyone’s fun.” 

“Ruin everyone’s fun,” Sirius repeats, muttering. He pulls you into a hug, mindless of the snot getting on his shoulder. “You are the fun, baby.” 

You nearly snort. “Not like this.” 

“Did you ever think that maybe I like making you tea and bossing you around? Hm? Did it occur to you that that might be fun for me?” 

“I think it’s occurred to all of us that being bossy is fun for you, babe,” says James. His smile has a pitying edge as he begins to shepherd you both back towards the shore. “Come on, let’s go.” 

“Please don’t let my cold mess this up for you,” you plead.

Sirius gives you a stern look. “Shush.” 

“Angel, how could it?” James asks in a nicer tone. “We’ll still be together, won’t we?” 

[tsunodaradio]

everyone wants him (that was my crime) ⛐ 𝐋𝐍𝟒

THIS IS: FORMULA ONE 📀 if you're gonna be drunk, might as well be drunk in love.

♫ starring: lando norris x reader. ♫ social media au. ♫ includes: romance, fluff, angst -ish. profanity, hate towards lando/reader, suggestive jokes. @opastries81 requested slut! by taylor swift. <- (another warning: a lot of the lyrics will be scattered throughout this one! lol.) ♫ commentary box: maira, the amount of good requests you've thrown my way.. i am indebted. this one grabbed me by the neck and wouldn't let me go, sooo 🤷 𝐦𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

Liked by user1, user2, and others paddocktea ����️ Is lando seeing someone new?! Fans allegedly saw him with a girl on his back near Plague de Pont de Fer and this is the pic they snapped. Side by side with a pic of Lando from the same day. That black hoodie and white shirt... 👀

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user1 oh paddocktea this is a reach even for u user2 That fuckass first pic... is lando in the room with us rn??? user3 lando norizz 2025 sry user4 His Ass CANNOT Carry Anyone Like That 🤣🤣🤣 user5 Isn't Lando's dating history like 80% models anyway lmao. ⤷ user6 CLOCK HIMM. Pretty sure he's learned his lesson

Liked by carlossainz55, quadrant, and others lando 📷

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user1 The film photo aesthetic!! Okayyy king user2 can u pls revive lando.jpg pls pls pls 🥺 ⤷ user3 AND land0.mov WHILE YOU'RE AT IT. user4 Is this a tease for smth new??? Merch??? PHOTOBOOK??? user5 me zooming into the mirror selfies 😜 b/c i'm #insane user6 Whoever took that 2nd slide: Thank you so much for my new lockscreen!

Liked by yourbestfriend, notl4nd0, and others yourusername flamingo pink, sunrise boulevard

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yourbestfriend that last slide... GIRLLL is there something you're not telling me ⤷ yourusername :) notl4nd0 simply lovely x ❤️ Liked by creator

Liked by user1, user2, and others ln4updates lando in NYC today! 📷 by landodotcom & ln4wdc

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user1 he looks sooo good 🤤 user2 THE FRIENDSHIP BRACELET user3 why are ppl on tiktok saying he was on a date ⤷ user4 People on TikTok js be saying shit tbh. 🤷‍♂️ ⤷ user5 i think there would also be pics if he was w/some1 user6 Where can I cop that cap ? user7 congrats to whoever's bouncing on it!

Liked by yourbestfriend, user1, and others yourusername wrong place / right time

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yourbestfriend "it's pretty casual" ⤷ yourusername 🤫 user1 THE WAY THIS SHOWED UP ON MY EXPLORE PAGE AND I-- IS THAT LANDO FUCKING NORRIS ⤷ user2 I THINK SO TOO??? LIKEEE CHECK HIS NEWEST IG STORY

lando posted a story.

Liked by user1, user2, and others yourusername lovelorn and nobody knows

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user1 Hey are you dating Lando?? user2 okay non-oomf u slayed with olivia rodrigo 💜💜💜 ⤷ user3 Having a fellow livie date LN? This is how we take over the world!!!!!!!! user4 is that last pic NOT lando omg ⤷ user5 I thought so too!! I would know that bracelet from anywhere. ⤷ user6 do we have any official confirmation yet or user7 waht's lando's favorite olivia song pls respond it's for science ⤷ user8 bet it's all-american bitch. 🇺🇸 user9 Gliter hand?? Lando's too?? Need someone to be all detective up in this sh*t pls

Liked by maxfewtrell, danielricciardo, and others lando being this young is art smth smth

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user1 PEAK summer break content! hope you're having fun lando!! xoxo user2 If I can't have Lando, can I just have one of his friends? Lol. user3 can we pls talk about the concert venue with the olivia rodrigo confetti HELLo. ⤷ user4 oh so this is confirmation yourusername went with him ??? INSANE. ⤷ user5 This breadcrumb trail is crazy 😳 ⤷ user6 Try Not To Speculate About Driver's Private Lives: [FAILED] user7 king and queen of soft launching yourusername

Liked by lando, lando.jpg, and others yourusername taking my time in the tangerine

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user1 Oh! Alright! user2 AAAND there it is folks user3 Does she even know what a DRS is??? lilymhe Sooo loved meeting you x ⤷ yourusername thank you for being so nice ❤️ ⤷ user4 yourusername now a WAG #confirmed ⤷ user5 lily being like "hey me and my boyfriend saw you across the room and liked your vibe" ⤷ user6 lily >>> yourusername user7 okay but... lando liking this post with his main account, .jpg, .mov, quadrant, lnracingkart, AND lnfour? ⤷ user8 boy is down BAD. 😮‍💨 ⤷ user9 It's sooooo over. Everyone pack up. ⤷ user10 Went to the alex albon school of yearning iktr user11 so now that yourusername you've gone to a race, you're done with lando right?? kidding kidding user12 Do you have any more pics of/with him :( Please share with the class

Liked by mclaren, yourusername, and others f1 LANDO NORRIS WINS HIS FIRST GRAND PRIX 🏆

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user1 LANDO NORRIS OP user2 let's fucking GOOOOO 🐐 mclaren One of our own user3 No more LandoNoWins!!! user4 mans had a girl in the stands and was MOTIVATED ❤️ Liked by lando ⤷ user5 WHAT DO YOU MEAN LIKED BY LANDO ⤷ user6 We need yourusername at EVERY race now actually,, user7 Absolutely ELECTRIC, Lando!!! ⚡️⚡️⚡️

Liked by oscarpiastri, yourusername, and others lando they might as well be looking at us. thanks everyone. better words when i'm not buzzin 🧡

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user1 brb still crying user2 WHY DO I FEEL LIKE A PROUD MOM oscarpiastri love wins ⤷ user3 I Know What You Are. ⤷ user4 oscar seal of approval?! ⤷ user5 broo idk why but she gives off gold-digger vibes or smth user6 bet the trophy isn't the only thing lando will be kissing tonight ❤️ Liked by creator ⤷ user7 LANDO LIKED THIS. WHAT. ⤷ user8 I'm going to be sickkk. he's a SIMP 🤢 ⤷ user9 get a room wtf ⤷ user10 can we not make this win about his relationship??? he worked his ass off and you're all just making dumb jokes user11 No pic of/with yourusername tho.. Guess it's not that serious lol ⤷ user13 #real. bet she's gone by the next race ⤷ user12 he's litchrally liking comments left n right about her but go off ig

Liked by lando, maxfewtrell, and others yourusername love sick all over my bed

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user1 That hint of lando in the very end ahhh user2 flowers from lando??? Or user3 No offense but this soo does not look like Lando's type of girl ⤷ user4 he must b bored out of his mind out there kekekeke user5 girl. if i was dating lando norris i'd b hard launching him every two working days. pls give us more. ⤷ user6 GIVE IT TO ME RACHEL 🙏🙏🙏 ⤷ user7 No thnx I might throw up user8 The domestication of Lando Norris. We Loveee to see it

Liked by georgerussell63, yourusername, and others lando hand prints in wet cement

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user1 MY SHAYLA. user2 blocking out his gf's face in the bereal bec even HE knows she's ugly like that's insane work ⤷ user3 How could you say something so controversial... but so true... user4 the pottery class and bouquet snaps matching up <3 cuties! user5 You're gettin soft mate!!! Stop dating and focus on driving. user6 lando i promise i can treat you wayyy better give me 5 mins in a room and a hair tie user7 Oh they're still a thing? Lmaoooo. 🫣 ⤷ user8 i give it four more months ⤷ user9 That's generous. *Two months

Liked by notl4nd0, user1, and others formu1agossip lando in yourusername's recent Stories!

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user1 Can we study why she keeps soft launching him like this? Like bae we know who that is. You're not slick. user2 Alexa, play break up with ur girlfriend i'm bored 🎵 user3 i don't get the negativity in this comment section :(( he's allowed to have a life! user4 yourusername can you fight user5 she's such a slut sorry 🫠 ⤷ lando jesus fuck do you have nothing better to do with your life ? ⤷ user6 O H MYGOD ⤷ user7 SHOTS FIRED!!!!!!!!! ⤷ user8 mclaren this y'all's driver? ⤷ user9 serves you fucking right assholes ⤷ user10 Wowww. Lando is NOT happy.

Liked by lando, notl4nd0, and others yourusername in a world of boys, he's a gentleman

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user1 ANY TONGUE THAT RISES AGAINST lando AND yourusername SHALL FALL user2 His smile :( Ohhh he loves her so much user3 i'm a convert (that first photo where he looks at her.. ok this shit is real real) 💕 user4 still not convinced user5 The hard launch to end all hard launches!!!!! user6 may a love like this find me pls. preferably with yuki tsunoda user7 Betting pool on the breakup, anybody? lando looks like a loverboy ⤷ yourusername is a loverboy ⤷ user8 DECORUMMMM?!?1?!?! ⤷ user9 Can I be adopted pls pls pls ⤷ user10 my new fav wag !

Liked by mclaren, yourusername, and others lando worth it 4 once yourusername

yourusername pretty casual ⤷ lando not today, not ever

Comments on this post have been limited. ⛐

[isak-dot-gov]

The Story of Tonight

Pairing: Paige Bueckers x Theatre Kid!Reader

Word count: 1175

Summary: When you land the lead role of Eliza in Hamilton, you excitedly tell her girlfriend, Paige, expecting support. Instead, she dismisses it as “just a college play”.

Your hands trembled as you refreshed your email for the hundredth time that day. Rehearsing your audition piece had been nerve-wracking enough, but waiting for the results? That was pure agony.

When your phone finally dinged with a new message, your breath caught in your throat.

"Dear [Y/N], congratulations! You have been cast as Eliza Hamilton in our upcoming production of Hamilton!"

For a moment, you just stared at the words, hardly believing them. Then, excitement exploded in your chest, and a loud squeal escaped your lips. You got it. You actually got the lead role!

There was only one person you wanted to tell first.

You practically sprinted across campus, ignoring the odd looks from passing students as you made your way to the gym. The familiar sound of sneakers squeaking against hardwood and basketballs bouncing filled the air as you stepped inside.

Paige was on the court, casually sinking three-pointers while talking with Ice and Nika. You grinned, bouncing on your feet, waiting for her to notice you.

“Paige!” you called, barely able to contain your excitement.

She turned at the sound of your voice, a lazy smile forming. “Hey, babe.”

“I got the role!” you practically shouted, unable to hold it in any longer. “I’m playing Eliza in Hamilton!”

Paige nodded, tossing the basketball back to Ice before looking at you again. “Oh, nice. That’s cool.”

You blinked, waiting for more.

That was it?

“Cool?” you echoed, your excitement faltering slightly.

“Yeah,” Paige shrugged. “I mean, I figured you’d get it. You’re always singing those songs anyway.”

Your heart sank. You had expected her to be excited, maybe even lift you up in celebration like she did after a big win. But instead, she just… dismissed it.

“I thought you’d be more excited,” you admitted, forcing a small laugh.

“I am happy for you,” Paige said, pecking your cheek before picking up the ball again. “But it’s just a college play, right? I don’t really get why it’s such a big deal.”

You froze.

Just a college play?

This wasn’t just some hobby you did for fun. Theatre was your passion. You had worked so hard for this moment, and Paige just brushed it off like it was nothing.

Your stomach twisted uncomfortably, but you didn’t want to start a fight in front of her teammates.

“Right,” you muttered, forcing a small smile. “Just a play.”

Paige didn’t even notice the way your shoulders slumped as you turned and walked away.

For the next few weeks, you poured your heart into rehearsals. You learned the choreography, memorized every line, and perfected your vocals until your throat was sore. Every single day, you gave everything you had to this performance.

At first, you still tried to tell Paige about it.

You’d excitedly recount your progress, talk about the incredible energy of the cast, or hum a new harmony you’d learned. But Paige always responded with the same half-hearted nods, sometimes distracted by her phone, other times stretching out after practice.

Eventually, you stopped bringing it up.

Then, one evening, after another long rehearsal, you sat beside her on the couch, cautiously bringing up the upcoming performances.

“So… opening night is next Friday,” you started. “I was wondering if you could come?”

Paige barely looked up from her phone. “I don’t think I can. I’ve got practice.”

Your heart clenched. “Your practices are in the morning. The shows are at night.”

“Yeah, but I’ll probably be too tired,” she replied with a shrug. “I’ll try to catch them if I can.”

You swallowed the lump in your throat, nodding stiffly.

“Yeah. Sure.”

Paige didn’t even notice how hurt you were.

Closing night arrived quicker than you expected. You should have been excited—this was your moment, the culmination of weeks of hard work.

But there was a weight in your chest.

Paige had missed every performance so far. She hadn’t even asked how things were going. Part of you had held onto the slim hope that she’d surprise you, show up one night and tell you she was proud of you.

But deep down, you knew she wouldn’t.

What you didn’t know was that Jana, Azzi, and Caroline had been working behind the scenes.

They had managed to secure tickets for the entire UConn women’s basketball team, determined to show up and support you—even if Paige wouldn’t.

“You actually got everyone to come?” Ice asked as they filed into the theater.

Jana grinned. “Damn right I did.”

Everyone was buzzing with excitement—except Paige. She crossed her arms, looking unimpressed.

“I still don’t get why this is such a big deal,” Paige muttered.

Jana turned to her, exasperated. “Are you serious right now?”

Azzi shook her head. “Paige, she’s your girlfriend. This is important to her.”

“She’s always at your games, cheering you on,” Caroline added. “Why can’t you do the same for her?”

Paige opened her mouth to argue but stopped.

They were right.

She had been so wrapped up in her own world that she hadn’t considered how much this meant to you. But still, she didn’t really understand—at least, not until the lights dimmed and the curtain rose.

Then she saw you step onto the stage.

For the first time, she watched you in your element—completely at home under the spotlight.

And when you sang Burn, voice thick with raw emotion, Paige felt something tighten in her chest.

She had never seen you like this before.

She had never realized just how talented you were.

And worst of all, she had never realized how much she had hurt you by not being there.

After the show, you stepped into the lobby, still buzzing with adrenaline.

The last thing you expected was to see the entire UConn women’s basketball team standing there, grinning at you.

Your eyes widened. “What—?”

Jana smirked. “Surprise, superstar.”

Your heart swelled, a mix of shock and happiness flooding through you. But then your gaze landed on Paige, standing slightly behind the group, looking guilty.

Paige stepped forward hesitantly. “Hey.”

You swallowed. “Hey.”

“You were…” Paige hesitated, then exhaled. “Incredible.”

You blinked, caught off guard.

Paige ran a hand through her hair, her voice softer now. “I was an idiot. I should’ve been there from the beginning. I should’ve supported you the way you support me. I’m so sorry, baby.”

You bit your lip, the hurt still lingering.

“I just didn’t get it before,” Paige continued, her eyes pleading. “But watching you up there tonight… I get it now. This is a big deal. And you were amazing.”

A small smile tugged at your lips. “You really think so?”

Paige nodded. “Yeah. And I promise, from now on, I’ll be your biggest fan.”

You sighed, finally letting go of the resentment you had been holding onto. “You better be.”

Paige grinned, wrapping her arms around you. The team erupted into cheers, and you couldn’t help but laugh.

Maybe Paige had been late to the party, but at least she had finally arrived.

And that was all that mattered.

[fairuzfan]

Hey All, I know this isn't the most pressing issue right now but i just want to raise awareness about the dangers of this Kickstarter campaign run by Resolute RGL Sneakers.

You can listen to the Tatreez Talk episode here to understand the issues but please please please if you made a pledge, take back the money. One of the partners on this is an Israeli and one thing most Tatreez designing women in Palestine agree on is to not let israelis profit off of Tatreez. The hosts interview two Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank who participate in selling Tatreez to know why this campaign is problematic.

I can personally tell you from a family of artists and as an artist myself, we really resent when nonPalestinians make money off of our culture, art, or food. This is especially true when the people making money are Israeli.

Listen to the episode if you're able but please do take back your pledge from the kickstarter campaign and raise awareness about this.

[effervescentwolf]

"No one believes me," Buck complains when Eddie picks up the phone, "when I say that I'm not in love with you."

Eddie's heart drops. Then, like his stomach isn't still in his throat, like he doesn't feel out of his body for no reason at all, "Hey, Buck." He gestures, imagines Buck's hands waving around as he talks. "Hi, Eddie. How's the house?" Then, back to himself, "Finally unpacked most of my stuff. How's your unpacking going?"

"I don't get it," Buck continues morosely like he didn't even hear Eddie. He sounds a little like a kicked puppy, and there's a fond little feeling tugging at Eddie's chest. It feels good to feel that again, even though it hasn't been that long yet.

Yet.

But it still feels like something familiar in this unfamiliar house, familiar in a way all of Eddie's worldly possessions don't either. The closest he got to comfort were Christopher's things, and then the things Buck has bought him over the years. The rest felt—impersonal.

"You told them I'm straight?" Eddie says, and there's that other feeling again, the one that makes him feel like he's missed a step when walking, like his feet are being swept right out from under him.

"That's what I said," Buck says, glum. "Even Tommy—"

"Tommy?" Eddie repeats, brows drawing together, warmth in his chest snapping shut, like turning a key in a lock, like there's something closing up.

"Yeah, I—" Buck starts and stops. "I—I ran into him the other night when I was out with Ravi, and—"

"You were out with Ravi? Didn't think you two had much in common," Eddie says, not sure why he asks or why he says it, not sure what he wants to know. Buck didn't tell him that though, and it feels almost like panic for a second, except Eddie doesn't panic, and Buck isn't—Buck is his best friend. Buck just... hadn't told him yet.

"Yeah, Maddie said I needed to make friends so—" Buck groans. "Why is this so hard?"

He's whining. Eddie smiles despite himself, fiddles with the hem of his shirt. "Never really needed to," he says absently.

"I know! And I'm fine being alone—uh, not that I'm alone," Buck immediately backtracks, still doing that thing of stepping around Eddie to protect him.

"Buck," is all Eddie has to say.

"But I can't sleep in your house and pretend," Buck says, and now it's an outpour, "It doesn't feel like my house. Even when I—I hooked up with Tommy here, and���"

"What?" Eddie says, and he thinks the only thing keeping him standing is the way he's about to shatter his phone with his grip, so tight it hurts, fingers numb, mouth dry, heart pounding. "Buck, why would you—"

"I know, I know," Buck replies hastily, "I won't do it again. I thought it was—I mean I didn't want to be alone, but he asked me—he thought I was in love with you," he rounds out, sounding small, and Eddie has to swallow two times before he can even say anything. Buck beats him to it, still on a roll. "I guess he was... jealous? I get it, I guess."

Eddie's lips are numb now. He still feels a flicker of something vindictive, a little bit of satisfaction. That's what he gets for breaking Buck's heart, he thinks. Should've stayed away in the first place. "You get it," he repeats anyway.

"Yeah, I mean—you know," Buck says, hesitant, and Eddie can see him so clearly it hurts, see the way his face scrunches up, the way he shrugs and turns his shoulders inward like he's trying to hide, just a little. "We're—close. We're—you know. You and me."

"Yeah," Eddie says. He's not choked up, not really, but he's so grateful for everything he has, and he's just—he's glad he has Buck. He misses him, and he's glad for him. If he has to blink back tears, there's no one to witness it. "Me and you."

Buck doesn't respond for an eternity. "I just miss you," he says eventually, soft.

"Not in love with me, though?" Eddie has to ask, and he doesn't know why.

Buck laughs a little, sheepish. "Not in love with you," he says, and what he should sound is relieved, but he sounds nervous, mostly.

What Eddie should be is relieved. But it takes him another eternity to realize he's not that, and he's not breathing either, and then he inhales and the world keeps going, and Buck is still on the other end of the phone, and he thinks there's a very tiny part of him, something hidden away in a corner, something that he hasn't dared touch, that wonders what it would have been like in another world and another conversation where he wasn't the tiniest bit, guiltily, disappointed.

[fixatedonwriting]

My dad had a drug store in Mississippi in the 70s and 80s, and I worked there off and on starting when I was about ten or eleven. It was an incredibly tiny town, so everyone knew my parents. They also knew me and my younger siblings as the small creatures who lurked behind the showcases. Which did not prepare them to have to deal with us actually working up at the counter.

So I'm ten or eleven. (Can't remember which. I'm old.) And this young Black guy comes in. He's acting pretty normal until he clocks the fact that none of the adult women who worked for my father were currently on shift, and that I was the only person standing there.

So he does this little dance where he starts to leave and then comes back. Leaves and comes back. Leaves and comes back.

Finally, I call out in my best "Daddy taught me this was called 'customer service'" voice: "Hey! Can I help you?"

This forces him to slowly walk up to the counter. Like it's the last place he wants to be, but he doesn't want to weird out this elementary school kid by rushing out the door.

So he gets right up in front of the counter and gestures for me to come a little closer. When I do, he whispers something I can't quite hear.

"What?" I ask in a very loud voice that causes him to cringe.

"I said," he whispers, "I need some mumble, mumble."

"What?!" I ask again, even more loudly and high-pitched than before.

This makes him shuffle around a bit while shaking his head. He is clearly having a very bad day.

"I said," he whispers, dragging out each and every word, "I need some con-dom-z."

"Oh," I say, more than a little confused because I'm pretty sure we don't sell any condoms. I know this because I've freaking grown up in that store, and if there was a product in it, I'd either seen it or shelved it. So I'm about to tell this guy he needs to go elsewhere.

But while I'm standing there, wracking my poor, little mind, this guy's face has gone into full "My lord, why must I suffer this way?" mode. I decide I can't send him away like that, so I do what any customer-service-child would do.

"Dad!" I yell. "This guy says he needs some condoms!"

Cue customer wrapping his hands around his head. Like if he wasn't in public, he'd be in full-on fetal position.

My dad emerges from behind the pharmacist's partition, takes one look at this poor fellow, and says, "Why don't you come on into the back? We'll get you taken care of."

Dude doesn't says anything, but quickly nods and follows. Later, he scoots right past me on his way out with a brown paper bag in his hand.

My dad comes up with him and stops to hand me a pad of the store stationery. He doesn't say anything, just looks at me sort of red-faced.

I look at it, back at him, then at it, and back at him again.

He sighs and finally says, "For when someone asks for something like that in the future. Just write it on the there and pass it around the partition."

"Okay," I say, not quite understanding why there's all of this emotion in the room, but willing to take this on as yet another part of my training.

The bell rings over the front door, and my dad starts to go back to where he stocks drugs, counts pills, and types up labels. But partway around the partition, he stops and looks back at me.

"Please don't tell your mother," he says before slipping away.

And that is how I learned we sold a bunch of stuff behind the partition that I never knew existed. From that day forward, I used that pad for condoms, sex toys, and all sorts of other products 1970s/80s Mississippi wouldn't allow us to display on the shelves.

I'd like to think it isn't that way anymore.

But I have a feeling that somewhere out there, there's another customer-service-child holding onto a pad.

[wonderjanga]

What if, like, one day Billy's hit with a spell as marvel and the gods suddenly spilt from his mind in front of the league? And then he drops something like "wow it's so quiet in my head!" While the league stands baffled by the literal gods in front of them

Marvel: “Wow! It’s so quiet in my head!” *immediately goes back to fighting with someone with a big ahh smile on his face*

With Zeus…

JL: *still stunned*

Zeus: “DAUGHTER!” *bear hugs Diana*

Wondy: “Father??” *confused, but hugs back*

Zeus: “Oh, you have no idea how long I’ve wanted to tell you how proud I am of you!”

With Solomon…

Solomon: *walks over to Bruce*

Batman: *confused as to why this old man who appeared from nowhere came up to him*

Solomon: *puts a hand on his shoulder* “Young Bruce, I can call you that, yes?”

Batman: *alarmed* “Excuse me—”

Solomon: “I’ve always wanted to tell you that out of everyone here besides the Captain you are by far my most favorite.”

Batman: “…thank you?”

Solomon: “Granted, your costume is atrocious and your gadgets could use some upgrading, but you are the only sane and rational person here. I commend you for that.”

Batman: *both insulted and confused*

Bruce was confused because last he checked, his gadgets were top-of-the-line, he’s not even gonna comment on the costume thing, and as for being the only sane and rational person here? Well, that was true.

Solomon: *pats his shoulder* “Good talk.” *looks over to Billy* “Billy, I will be going to the nearest tapas place. We will reconvene at the rock.” *walks off*

With Mercury…

Mercury: “Speedster!” *zooms over*

Flash: “I— uh yes?”

Mercury: “You!” *points to him* “Me!” *points to himself* “Race! Now!”

Flash: “WHA—”

Mercury: *zooms over and drags him away*

Flash: *screams fading as they get farther and farther*

With Hercules…

Hercules and Hawkgirl: *looking at each other*

Hercules: *nods head* “Mace? Respect.”

Hawkgirl; “Club?” *also nodding* “Respect.”

Hercules and Hawkgirl: *join the battle so they can clobber the villain together*

With Atlas…

Atlas: “Hey, do you know where the nearest hotel is?”

GL: “No?”

Atlas: “What about motel?”

GL: “I think there’s one down the block?”

Atlas: “Thank you.” *starts to walk off*

GL: “Wait! Where are you going??”

Atlas: “To find a place to sleep. It’s extremely rare that I get breaks.”

GL: “Are you— Are you even supposed to leave??”

Atlas: “Probably not, but you heard the old man. We’ll reconvene at the rock.” *walks off to find the motel*

With Achilles…

Achilles and Aquaman: *share a look*

Achilles: “Are you thinking what I’m thinking, Atlantean?”

Aquaman: “First off, how did you know it was Atlantean? Second, heck yes!”

Achilles and Aquaman: *team up to do a superduper, cool, bro move that somehow fuses the spear and triton for like three seconds and jump in to attack*

Achilles and Aquaman were the ones who finished the fight that day, landing the finishing blow on the villain. Also, unfortunately, for Solomon and Atlas neither made it to their tapas place nor motel because as soon as the villain was defeated all the gods and/or legends went right back into Billy’s mind.

[linkons-most-wanted]

LIs Build IKEA furniture

I couldn’t get this out of my head, so enjoy 🤣

Zayne ❄️

Immediately takes charge of the process, doesn’t realize he’s doing so until you tease him about it

Treats the process like a surgery, you become the assistant. “Hex wrench. Number sixteen screw. Panel C in a vertical orientation.” When you tease him, he pretends to brush it off but then leans into the bit. “Phillips head screwdriver, stat.”

Never gets confused by the diagrams. Quietly notes errors and typos in the instructions. Seems to be able to use the tiniest details to know the correct orientation for each piece

Somehow had sandpaper on hand for when the pieces don’t fit perfectly

You hardly got a chance to look at the instructions but he still made you feel like an essential part of the process

Furniture is assembled perfectly in record time

Xavier 💫

Happy to help you out, starts reading the instructions while you sort the parts

Falls asleep reading the instructions

You take charge, waking him up on step 3 when you need him to hold something. He falls asleep holding it but somehow doesn’t drop it

When you ask for a part he just stares at the pile and picks up random things to offer you until he gets the right one or you point directly at it

Ask for the same part a second time, “Which was it again?”

You attach the last part and turn to high-five him—he’s sleeping again

Rafayel ����

“You want to spend time on this weird project instead of hanging out with me?” “This is us hanging out.” “What? But it’s boring. Can’t we, like, get someone else to put it together?”

You start building anyway

When you ask for something specific (“hold this”) he does so without hesitation but keeps complaining

“If I have to hold this board up any longer I’m going to get wrist cramps and then I won’t be able to paint for a week!”

“Ow ow, I think that gave me a splinter! Look at it! It might get infected! I need first aid, like, immediately.”

“This color is boooring, we should paint it later.”

This might be taking longer than if you just built it yourself

Sylus 🚗

“Did you steal this?” “No.” “Then why is it still in pieces?” “It’s how they sell it. It saves money.” “Why didn’t you say something? I’ll take you to a real furniture store.” “I want this exact one though.” “Can’t you pay them to assemble it?”

All you have to say is “I guess you’re not up for the challenge” and then he’s sitting on the floor next to you, also staring at the instructions

You both get confused on the same steps. Which side goes up again? Can you tell by the number of holes? Eventually you both shrug and hope for the best. Sylus brute forces a few pieces that probably don’t actually go together.

You realize you put a piece on backwards three steps ago and Sylus patiently helps you backtrack and fix it

“You’re being surprisingly cooperative.” “I am?” “Yeah, I thought you’d be way more annoyed.” “I never feel annoyed when I’m with you.”

“Where did that piece go?” (Mephisto stole it, it was shiny)

Caleb 🍎

“Hey Pipsqueak, remember when I built that bed for you? Even though you were in high school you still reeeeally wanted a pink one…” “Ugh, stop! It’s embarrassing!”

Takes the bag of pieces and the instruction book right away, uses his gravity Evol to hold up the parts. “Caleb, you took all the jobs! Let me help!” “You can help by getting us some snacks.”

“Caleb, I don’t think that goes there.” “Of course it does, are you really going to doubt the mechanical skills of a former fighter pilot?” Ten minutes later when it’s clear you were right the whole time: “Caleb, you dummy.”

“I switched the delivery notification number in your account over to my phone number since you’re going to need me to build whatever you buy, anyway.”

“You should come over to help me build my furniture too.” “But you didn’t let me help at all!” “Snack duty is very important, Pipsqueak.”

[scribblesofagoonerr]

sunflowers & strawberry kisses | buddy & monkey: double the trouble

summary: buddy and monkey spend the day with lia, kim and stina while leah is having a bad day with an endo flare-up. what better to do than distract the kids with sunflowers and strawberry picking? but it's not always as simple when double trouble are involved

double the trouble masterlist

massive thank you to both @wosov, @lvnleah and @alotofpockets for the help with this one... it's been in the drafts for a while so it's about time it's out there for you all now!'for the help with this one... it's been in the drafts for a while so it's about time it's out there for you all now!

“Girls, Auntie Kimmy and Auntie Wally are here!” Leah calls aloud, shuffling on her feet as she walks to open the front door, clutching hold of her stomach in pain, “Hiya, Kim. Hiya, Wally. How’re you both doin’?”

“Hiya, Le,” Kim is the first to wrap her free arm around the taller girl, “I’m doin’ alright, how’re you feelin’?” She questions, concerned.

“Bit sore, but the meds are making it more bearable,” Leah explains, trying to mask her pain.

“Hey, Le,” Lia smiles, gently extending both her arms around her best friend, “What’re you doin’ up? You should be lying down and resting. We could have used the spare key…”

“It’s alright, I’m doin’ better than I was earlier,” Leah waves her best friend off, shutting the front door behind the two women, “Do either of you want a cuppa?”

“Yes, please,” Kim agrees with the blonde.

Lia nods in agreement, “I’ll make them if you want, Le? You should be taking it easy today.”

Leah nods, shuffling back into the kitchen as she flicks the kettle on, before settling back on the bar stool and allowing Lia to take over making the hot drinks, “I know the girls wouldn’t be no bother with the way I feel, but thanks for taking them out today. I think they’re both quite excited about it.”

“It’s not a problem, we’ve both been quite looking forward to it,” Kim tells the blonde, “Lia has planned for us to go strawberry picking.”

“Yeah, there’s strawberries and sunflowers as well,” Lia adds, reaching for three mugs out of the kitchen cupboard.

“Oh, that does sound like a lot of fun,” Leah hums in agreement, resting her hand over her stomach as she winces, “I know that Buddy will love that, for sure!”

“Le, do you want me to make you a hot water bottle?” Lia offers, noting Leah's expression, “It might help a bit ease the pain.”

“Please, if you don’t mind,” Leah winces as the pain floods through her, “I think this one’s gonna be bad.” She mumbles in realisation.

“Right,” Kim begins to speak, “Why don’t you go lay back down on the sofa, and tuck yourself up with a blanket, Lia can make you a hot water bottle, and bring it through to you?” She offers.

“What about the girls?” Leah asks, wearily.

“Don’t worry about them. They’ll be fine,” Lia reassures her best friend, finishing off making the hot drinks and stirring the teaspoon in the mug, “Speaking off which, it’s quiet. Should we find that a bit suspicious?” She wonders, placing two of the drinks in front of Kim and Leah.

As if on cue, loud shouting erupts from upstairs.

“Gimme dat back. It mine!” The shrill of Buddy’s tiny voice rings out.

“Nah, it’s not. It’s mine, shrimp!” You retort, your tone fiery.

“Oh for god sake. Just one day,” Leah groans, pinching the bridge of her nose, “Girls, what’s going on up there?”

Kim chuckles knowingly, “Spoke too soon.”

Before Leah can respond, the three-year-old whirlwind barrels into the kitchen, her Lightning McQueen toy car clutched in one hand. 

“Auntie Kimmy!” Buddy squeals, launching herself into Kim’s arms and peering up at her with a lopsided grin on her face.

“Hello, troublemaker,” Kim chuckles, settling the three-year-old on her lap, “How’re you doing today?”

“Good!” Buddy beams, “We goin’ out?”

“We are, yeah,” Kim confirms, smoothing a hand over Buddy’s curls, “Are you excited?”

“Uh huh,” The three-year-old nods, resting her head on Kim’s shoulder.

The peace is short-lived as you hobble into the kitchen, your mischievous grin plastered firmly in place, “Tiny! Wallaby! You’re here!”

Leah’s sharp look stops you in your tracks, “One word,” she warns, holding up her tea mug meaningfully.

“Oh, come on…” You groan, already knowing where this is going, “Listen, I know what yer’ gonna say and I would use them but you see, you know I find them well annoying half the time, and I’m only taking the trip to here from upstairs, so it’s fine, innit?”

“Don’t care,” Leah interrupts firmly, “I’ve told you before, you need to use them.”

“Yeah but–” You start to trail off.

“No buts,” Leah cuts you off, her tone final, “If you don’t, your ankle won’t heal. You know this, Monkey. You have to be careful!”

“Oh, spare me the lecture,” You resist the urge to roll your eyes.

Leah continues to fix you with a firm look, “Go get them, now.”

“Fine!” You huff dramatically, turning to stomp upstairs, “Whatever.”

“She’s a handful,” Lia chuckles as your grumbling fades.

“You don’t know the half of it,” Leah exhales a sigh, leaning back against the stool, “You two are saints for offering to take them both today.”

When you return–begrudgingly, crutches in hand–you haven’t lost your attitude,  “Happy now?” You grumble, tossing them onto the floor.

Leah raises a brow, her patience thinning, “Don’t leave them on the floor like that. Pick them up before someone trips.”

You sigh, but obey, leaning the crutches against the counter, “So, where are we going?”

“You’ll see,” Kim says, her tone teasing.

“It’s a surprise,” Lia adds, taking a sip of her tea.

You frown, clearly unimpressed, “Ah come on. Where’s the fun in that?”

“Alright, you two,” Lia says, shaking her head, “Go get your shoes, or we’ll not end up getting anywhere at this rate.”

Buddy groans dramatically, sliding off Kim’s lap, “Auntie Kimmy, I don’ know where m’ shoe is!”

Kim crouches down to her level, “Alright, sweetheart. Let’s find it. Where did you last see it?”

“I don’ know!” Buddy flails her arms for added effect, clutching her Lightning McQueen toy in one hand, “I’ take McQueen wif’ us?”

“Of course, you can,” Kim agrees, reaching down to help her, “Now, let’s hunt down that missing shoe, okay?”

You follow, grumbling as you adjust your crutches, “She’s lost her shoes again? I swear she does it on purpose sometimes.”

Lia chuckles, shaking her head, “You’re one to talk, Miss ‘I-Don’t-Need-Crutches.’”

“Me? Nah, you know I’m innocent!” You shot back with a grin, earning laughter from Kim as she ruffled Buddy’s curls, “Good luck trying to find it. She’s probably lobbed it down the back of the sofa.”

“I’m bored,” You huffed, slumping back into your seat, arms crossed dramatically over your chest.

Kim sighed, glancing at you in the rear-view mirror, “Monkey, we’ve been in the car for ten minutes.”

“Exactly! Ten whole minutes!” You exclaimed in a dramatic tone of voice.

Lia turned in her seat to give you a knowing smile, “We’ll be there soon, little one. It’s not going to be that long.”

“To you, maybe,” You groaned, “But I am literally wasting away here,” You let your head loll back against the seat, “I might die of boredom. What a tragedy.”

“It’s not a tragedy. It’s a car ride,” Kim replied dryly, clearly debating whether she regretted bringing you along.

Buddy, however, was having the time of her life, bouncing in her car seat, “We ‘ere? We ‘ere yet?”

“Almost,” Kim said, sparing a quick glance at the satnav.

“Ooooh, ‘ere soon!” Buddy squealed, swinging her legs, “I so ‘cited!”

You rolled your eyes, crossing your arms with a dramatic huff, “S’just some stupid berries.”

“Pickin’ berries, pickin’ berries!” Buddy sang happily.

Kim smiled, “That’s the spirit, Buddy! We’re going to have so much fun picking them, aren’t we? You need to cheer your big sister up–she’s a bit moody right now.”

“Not my spirit,” You mumbled, slumping further into your seat, “My spirit is tired… and broken.”

Kim threw you a look in the mirror, “Your spirit is dramatic, is what it is.”

Buddy, on the other hand, was delighted, “We ‘ere yet? We ‘ere yet?” She chirped, kicking her feet against the seat.

“Almost,” Kim answered with forced patience.

“Pick strawbies?” Buddy beamed up at her.

“Yes, Buddy, we’re going to pick strawberries,” Lia said kindly, watching your little sister bounce excitedly in her car seat, “Doesn’t that sound like fun, right, Monkey?”

“Oh yeah, I can’t wait for the plants and bugs and… work,” You retorted sarcastically with mock enthusiasm, “That sounds like a whole bunch of fun.”

“You didn’t have to come if you didn’t want to,” Kim pointed out.

“Don’t you have a phone to distract yourself with?” Lia turned to face you with a knowing look, “Why don’t you text Kyra?”

You slumped even further, dramatically pressing a hand to your forehead, “Kyra’s in Paris at the Olympics, remember? I’m lost without my sidekick!”

“Kyra will be back soon,” Lia reassured you, “You’re not lost, little one.”

Kim glanced at you in the rear-view mirror, exhaling a sigh, “I feel like I’m having déjà vu here.”

You stared out the window, counting the trees as they blurred past. Then, inspiration stuck, “Did you know that penguins can swim up to 7 miles per hour?” 

The shift was so sudden that Lia blinked in confusion, “Oh? That’s fascinating.”

“Yeah and did you know they don’t have teeth?” You leaned forward, animated now, “But they do have spines inside their beaks and on their tongues to help them hold onto prey and swallow.”

Lia hummed, “That’s interesting, little one.”

Kim shook her head, “Where do you even find this stuff?”

“Oh, I was bored so I Googled random facts about penguins when I was meant to be doing something else,” You retorted, shrugging your shoulders carelessly, “It was more interesting!”

“That makes so much sense,” Lia murmured, amused.

You grinned, leaning forward in your seat again, “Do you want to hear some more? Apparently–”

“I think that’s enough penguin facts for now,” Kim cut in, “How’s the rehab on your ankle coming along?”

You let out an exaggerated sigh, “Oh, it’s so borin,’ Kimmy! It’s so repetitive, just the same thing every day–how did Le cope with this? It’s horrible! I just want to be back on the pitch already! It’s so stupidly long and gruelling!”

“I regret asking the question now,” Kim mumbled.

“I know it’s hard,” Lia said gently, “But you’ll be back before you know it. You just have to think positively about this.”

You huffed, crossing your arms over your chest, “Yeah, sure, that’s easier said than done.”

“You just have to keep your chin up, Monkey,” Kim added, slowing down as she approached a set of traffic lights, “And if anything, this will teach you to not mess about on skateboards, eh?”

“Ugh, don’t remind me,” You mumbled, rolling your eyes.

Buddy kicked her legs against the seat, her whole body practically vibrating, “We ‘ere?”

“Almost there, little miss,” Kim chuckled.

“I so ‘cited!” Buddy beamed, wriggling like she couldn’t contain it.

“Oh!” Your eyes widened in realisation, “I got another penguin fact–”

“Monkey,” Kim warned.

“Just one more! They’re great divers and can swim up to 1,740 feet deep. That's like, so cool, ain’t it?”

“I think you need to find a new hobby,” Lia teased, “Weren’t you learning the guitar?”

“I tried and failed,” You admitted, slumping your shoulders, “It’s harder than it looks, you know?”

“Oh I bet that Leah was thrilled to have wasted her money on that guitar then,” Kim joked, knowing full well how happy the blonde was about you giving up so quickly.

“Well, let’s just say she’s not very happy about it,” You mumbled, scratching the back of your neck awkwardly.

Kim pulled into the car park, “Alright, we’re here!”

Buddy squealed, clapping her hands, “We ‘ere!”

“Finally,” You let out a dramatic sigh, but when you went to open the car door and swing your legs out, Kim’s voice stopped you.

“Where do you think you’re going?” The Scottish woman asked with a pointed look.

You blinked, “Um. Out of the car?”

“Not without your crutches,” Kim reminded you.

You groaned, “Kimmy, it’s grass. Nice, soft, cushiony grass. Why do I need ‘em? I’ll be fine!”

“Crutches,” Kim repeated, crossing her arms.

You huffed, crossing your arms stubbornly, “But I don’t wanna use ‘em!”

Kim simply raised an eyebrow, “One…”

You scowled, but she didn’t falter.

“Two… If I get to three, I’m phoning Leah.”

Your eyes widened slightly as she reached for her phone, “Ugh, fine, fine!” You muttered, throwing your head back in frustration but begrudgingly grabbed them, “No fair at all. I don’t need the stupid things!”

“Yes you do, little one,” Lia told you, patting you on your shoulder as she helped unbuckle Buddy out of her car seat, “Out you get then, little miss. Let’s go pick some strawberries!”

Buddy took the help out of the car and hopped down, her eyes suddenly going wide in amazement as she caught sight of the sandpit, “Auntie Wally! Ook! Der sand!”

“Oh yeah, I do see,” Lia said, following her gaze.

“I play in it,” Buddy said determinedly.

Lia furrowed her brow, looking ahead to the fields of strawberries, “Do you not want to pick strawberries first?”

Buddy scrunched her nose, “No berry! Sand bettah!”

“How about you play in the sandpit after you’ve picked some strawberries?” Lia tried to bargain, “There’s sunflowers to see as well.”

“Sand, Auntie Wally!” Buddy insisted, not budging one bit as she tried to tug impatiently at Lia’s hand, “I wan’ play in sand!”

Lia sighed, running her hand through her hair, “After we pick some yummy strawberries, you can play, okay?”

“No! Now!” Buddy whined, not understanding why she couldn’t play in the sand first.

“Buddy…” Kim began to speak.

The toddler stomped her foot and dramatically threw herself onto the grass in front of her, kicking her feet, “NOW!”

You let out a low whistle as you leaned on one crutch, “Bet you guys didn’t think you’d have to deal with a Buddy meltdown today, huh?”

“Not now, Monkey,” Kim muttered, already pinching the bridge of her nose.

“Buddy–”

“Come on, little miss,” Lia crouched to Buddy’s height to try and reason with her, “I know you want to play in the sand, but won’t it be fun to do that afterwards, yeah?”

Buddy, however, was having none of it as she wailed louder and flailed her arms on the grass, “No! I wan’ play in the sand now!”

“Buddy, listen…” Kim began to speak.

“No! Ou’ don’ understand! I hafta play now!” Buddy declared, crossing her arms over her chest and stomping her foot for emphasis.

“Oh look, there’s Stina!” You turned your attention away from your little sisters’ meltdown to notice the tall blonde heading over your way, “Stina Stina Ballerina!” You spotted the woman.

Stina turned at the call, smiling as she approached with a smile, “Hello, Monkey.”

“What’s happenin’ Stina Ballerina?” You grinned at the tall blonde.

“Are you going to keep calling me that all day?” Stina questioned, curiously.

“Eh, probably. I mean if you don’t like that, I could try Stina Ribena, maybe?” You offered with a cheeky grin.

Stina huffed, shaking her head, “No, no–Stina Ballerina is fine.”

“Good choice!” You beamed a wide smile.

Meanwhile, the three-year-old had sprinted to the sandpit–where her tantrum escalated. She stomped, screamed, grabbed a clump of sand and threw it. 

“Buddy, stop throwing sand,” Lia warned.

Kim rubbed her temples to keep her calm, “Buddy, listen–”

A handful of sand sailed through the air–right into Stina’s eye.

You snorted in amusement, “Well, this just got a whole lot more interesting.”

Kim exhaled sharply, “I need a drink.”

“Buddy, we do not throw sand at people!” Lia told your favourite little buddy off.

Buddy, wasn’t even phased by that and scooped up another handful.

“This is why I don’t babysit,” Stina, still blinking sand out of her eye, muttered.

Kim took deep breaths, trying to keep her cool. Stina unfortunately, had become collateral damage, frozen in place as she blinked back tears, sand still in her eyes.

And you? You were filming the whole thing, barely holding in your laughter.

“Lia, do something,” Kim said through gritted teeth.

Lia, ever the sensible one, sighed and pulled out her phone. “I’ll handle it,” she muttered, dialling Leah’s number. “Hiya, Le. Sorry to ruin your peaceful day without the girls, but uh, we have a bit of a situation here…”

“It’s totally Buddy-coded,” You chimed in with a wicked grin, holding your phone out in your hand like you were about to watch the world burn. 

Kim shot you a glare as she rubbed her temples. Stina sniffled, still blinking out sand. Buddy was now flat on the ground, wailing at the top of her lungs. And you? You were having the time of your life.

“What’s going on?” Leah’s tired voice crackled through the phone, her tone calm and sounding like she’d just woken up from being asleep.

“Well, we’ve arrived at the place and we were about to pick strawberries until Buddy found out there was a sandpit,” Lia started, clearly trying to keep things together.

“Oh boy, I know where this is going…” Leah’s voice was laced with sympathy for Lia, but also a touch of understanding.

“And well, she’s decided that she wants to play in the sandpit instead… and threw a tantrum,” Lia continued, her voice tinged with a little more exasperation, “Now poor Stina has sand in her eyes, and Kim looks ready to quit for the day.”

Leah exhaled a sigh, “Let me speak to her,” She said, the firmness in her voice making it clear she was ready to take charge.

“Sure,” Lia agreed, pausing to look at Buddy, who is in the middle of throwing another clump of sand in Kim’s direction this time, “Buddy, Mummy’s on the phone and she would like to speak to you.”

“Ooooo, you’re in trouble now, Buddy!” You teased, making sure she heard every word of it.

Buddy froze mid-wail at the mention of Leah’s name. Wide-eyed, she sat up instantly, brushing sand off her shorts with a dramatic flair only a three-year-old could manage.

“Mummy!” Buddy gasped, toddling towards the phone with grabby hands, “I speak to her!”

Lia smiled faintly as she held the phone closer to Buddy, “She’s right here. Want to talk to her?”

“I speak to her, Auntie Wally!” Buddy demanded, eager to grab the phone, “Mummy! I in da sandpit!”

“I know,” Leah stifled a laugh, “But what’s this about you throwing sand at Stina? That’s not a very kind thing to do now, is it?”

“I no mean to do it,” Buddy lied, attempting her best innocent face.

“Yeah you did, Buddy, don’t fib,” You continued to wind your little sister up, oblivious that Leah could hear you crystal clear on the other end of the phone, “You so did it on purpose!”

“Oi,” Kim swatted you round the back of the head.

“Ow,” You yelped, rubbing the back of your head where you’d just been hit, “What’d you do that for?”

Kim gave you a firm look, “Quit antagonising her, will you?”

“Fine,” You muttered, sulking as you continued to rub the sore spot.

“It’s not nice to do things like that, Bubba,” Leah continued in a gentle tone of voice that still came across as firm to the three-year-old, “And when you do those things, you’re being very naughty, aren’t you?”

“I be an angel though, Mummy!” Buddy declared with unwavering confidence.

You couldn’t help but snort in amusement, “More like the devil.”

“Monkey,” Kim warned, shooting you a glare.

“What? I thought it was funny!” You insisted, holding your hands up in mock surrender.

“Stop it,” Kim stated, firmly.

“You’re no fun,” You mumbled, slumping your shoulders.

Back on the phone call, Leah tried to speak to Buddy as she could hear you winding her up, “I thought you wanted to have a nice time with Auntie Wally, Auntie Kim and Stina. If you continue to throw sand, then you won’t be able to, and you’ll have to come home. You don’t want that now, do you?”

“No, Mummy,” Buddy pouted, “I gon’ pick all da berries for ou’!”

Leah fauxed a playful gasp, “You are? Wow, I can’t wait to see how many you pick. But remember, only good girls get to pick berries.”

“I be good!” Buddy exclaimed, puffing out her chest.

“I know you can, Bubba,” Leah smiled on the other end of the phone, “Now, can you give the phone to your big sister? I need to have a word with her too.”

“Monks’ in trouble?” Buddy asked, curiously.

Leah exhaled a sigh, “A little bit.”

“Uh oh!” Buddy gasped in a dramatic sense, “Monks’ ou’ in big trouble wif Mummy! Ou’ need a timeout!” She announced smugly, handing over the phone to you.

You frowned, “What? I haven’t even done anything!”

“Oh, so that wasn’t you in the background winding her up?” Leah’s tone was unimpressed.

You shrank a little, suddenly regretting your choices. “Uhhh… Well, when you put it like that…”

“Uh-uh, don’t even try it,” Leah cut you off, her tone remaining not in the mood for your antics, “I’m fed up of having this same conversation with you, over and over again, Monkey. I’m this close to taking your iPad away. Or do I need to remind you that you’re already on thin ice after last week, eh?”

You tilted your head back and resisted the urge to groan, “Ah, come on, Le. It’s just some harmless fun… And it’ll make a great TikTok video–”

“You had better be joking there, Monkey!” Leah exclaimed, not happy at all.

You winced, “Chill, It’s fine. I was just kidding, Le!”

“Yeah? Well, I’m not,” Leah replied firmly, “We’ll talk when you get home.”

You swallowed hard, trying to lighten the mood, “Aw, come on, Le, don’t be like that. You love me too much for that, right?” You attempted with a sheepish grin, even though she couldn’t see you.

Leah wasn’t having it, “You think I don’t know what you’re like, Monkey? I’m hardly in a position to even drive to come and get you right now, am I? You had better not be up to no good for the rest of the time that you’re out–You know this is the last thing I wanted to be dealing with you being a pain in the arse today!”

“Geesh, I really feel the love right now,” You muttered, rolling your eyes.

“Monkey!” Leah shouted.

“Alright, alright, I’ll stop,” You told her, holding your hands up in mock surrender even though she wouldn’t be able to see it.

“You’ll stop now because I’m telling you. Not when it suits you,” Leah continued to scold, “So unless you really do want me to come down there and drag you back home so you can sit in your bedroom the rest of the day, I suggest you stop while you’re ahead, sunshine–I don’t care if you’re 19 or not, I won’t have you winding your little sister up and being a menace for Kim and Wally. Do you understand?”

You groaned but didn’t argue, “Yes, Mum.”

“Good,” Leah said, her voice softening just slightly, “I need you to set an example for your little sister, yeah? I don’t need you acting like your usual menace self!”

You grumbled something under your breath, and Leah didn’t miss it, “What was that?”

“... Nothing,” You mumbled.

“That’s what I thought,” Leah retorted in a firm voice, “Now go be helpful. And if I hear one more complaint, your iPad is mine.”

You clutched the phone tighter as you frowned, but you knew better than to argue, “Okay, Mum.”

“Right, now put Lia back on the phone,” Leah instructed, making sure that you understood not to cause any more trouble.

“Here,” You mumbled, passing the phone back to Lia so she could talk to Leah.

Lia took the phone, “Hi, Le.”

“Right, I’ve had a word with both of the girls–Buddy knows not to throw sand, and Monkey shouldn’t be too much of a problem now either,” Leah explained to her best friend.

“Thank you, sorry for disturbing you… This is probably the last thing you wanted to be dealing with today,” Lia apologised, running her hand through her hair.

Leah chuckled on the other end of the phone, “Unfortunately, there’s no such thing as a break from motherhood.”

“I guess you’re right there,” Lia chuckled in agreement, “Try and take it easy. We’ll be back later.”

We’ll see,” Leah hummed, clearly unconvinced.

“Right, I’ll let you go–Monkey, use your crutches!” Lia exclaimed, catching you attempting to walk away without them.

You froze mid-step, a few paces ahead of her, and quickly looked down at your feet, guilt flashing through you, “I wasn’t gonna… Never mind, I know, I know,” You mumbled, slumping your shoulders.

“Oh please don’t tell me she’s not using them,” Leah said, gritting her teeth as she felt a wave of pain flood through her, the image of you overexerting yourself, “She needs to use them or she’s not going to get better.”

“Pick them up,” Lia gestured to the abandoned crutches on the floor, not giving in until you grabbed them with a dramatic sigh and eye roll, “There’s been a bit of resistance when we got here, and well, now. But Kim started counting, and she caved.”

Leah let out a laugh, “Ah yes, the magical counting to three.”

“And the threat of calling you,” Lia added.

Leah laughed harder before a second wave went straight through her that left her clutching the phone in her hand, “I’m gonna go. I’ll… I’ll see you in a bit.”

“Okay. Get some rest and we’ll see you in a bit,” Lia said goodbye, ending the phone call before turning back to you and your favourite little buddy, “Right then, who’s ready to go and pick some yummy strawberries?”

“I wan’ pick berries!” Buddy shouted aloud at the top of her voice, “I pick all da good ones for Mummy!” She squealed, excitement fully restored.

You snickered turning to look towards Stina, “Five quid she eats more than she picks.”

Stina groaned, “I’m guaranteed to lose.”

You were definitely still posting that TikTok. There was no way you could leave something that good in your drafts. It was too perfect, too hilarious, way too you to just let it sit there.

“Mmm, der yummy berries!” While everyone else was busy picking strawberries, Buddy seemed much more interested in stuffing them into her mouth.

You rolled your eyes but smiled at her, watching her make a mess with her sticky hands. The sight was amusing, but you were also struggling. You weren’t in the best mood, having to rely on crutches, “You’re meant to put them in the basket, Buddy, not eat all of ‘em.”

“I just testin’ them so der nice for Mummy! I hafta make sure I pick all da nice ones!” Buddy insisted, her cheeks stuffed like a chipmunk.

“You’ll have none left by the time we get back to the car,” Kim told her, amusedly, “And then what will you give to Mummy?”

“It okay! Der will be more!” Buddy declared with determination, though her hands were mostly busy shovelling the fruit into her mouth.

Lia chuckled, shaking her head before glancing over at you, “Are you not going to pick any, little one?” She asked, noticing the emptiness of your own bucket.

“Yeah, yeah, I am,” You mumbled, shifting awkwardly on your crutches. Truthfully, your mind wasn’t on the strawberries–you just hated to rely on the dumb crutches, and the idea of walking around with them was just… annoying.

Lia gave you a knowing look but didn’t push, “Make sure you pick some good ones, eh? At the rate Buddy is going, she won’t have any to take home with us.”

“She’s gonna make herself sick,” You muttered, watching as Buddy crammed another strawberry into her already full mouth.

Kim grimaced at the thought of it, “Buddy, sweetheart. I think you’ve eaten enough. How about we just focus on putting them in the basket now, hm? We don’t want you to get a poorly tummy.”

“I be fine! I no get a tummy ache!” Buddy protested through a mouthful of berries, “I pickin’ all da bestest berries for Mummy!”

You scoffed, “Yeah but if you eat them all then there’ll be none to give her, Shrimp,”

“Dat no true. Der be loads!” Buddy declared with sheer determination.

“Pft, yeah, sure whatever you say,” You mutter under your breath, shaking your head.

“Monks’ ou’ don’ understand dat I can eat dem all!” Buddy exclaimed, puffing out her chest. 

“Sure, eat them all and then you’ll end up sick,” You grimaced at the mention of it, “I’m not being the one to clear up when you do!”

“Ou’ don’ know dat!” Buddy whined.

You rolled your eyes in disagreement, “I do! You did the same thing with Mum’s birthday cake,”

“Nuh-uh!” Buddy argued.

“Uh-huh!” You fought back.

Buddy furrowed her eyebrows in determination, “Nuh-uh!”

“Uh-huh,” You teased, grinning.

“Girls, come on, that’s enough,” Lia stepped in before the bickering could spiral any further, “Come on, let’s just finish picking the strawberries before we end up being here all day.”

“Keep it up and neither of you are getting any strawberries,” Kim warned.

Buddy gasped dramatically, clutching her basket to her chest, “Nooo! M’ berries! Ou’ can’ take ‘em away!”

Lia failed to hide her amusement, “Then let’s stop the arguing and start filling those baskets properly, yeah?”

Buddy pouted but finally relented, reaching for another strawberry–though, judging by the look in her eye, she was still debating whether to put it in the basket or her mouth.

“Buddy,” Kim warned, crossing her arms.

Buddy huffed, exaggeratedly placing it in the basket instead, “Happy now?”

Kim smirked, “Very.”

You shook your head, shifting slightly on your crutches as you tried to focus on picking some strawberries of your own. It was still annoying, but at least the ridiculousness of Buddy was distracting enough to keep your mind off it.

At least until she toddled over to you with something in her hand.

“Ook, Monks’! Ook I found a c’eepy c’awly!!” Buddy, oblivious to the problem, had found a tiny caterpillar and was admiring it with wide eyes, “Ook! Ook!”

You were already regretting her wander off ahead.

“Hell nah–get that thing away from me!” You freaked out, seeing the small caterpillar enclosed in her hands, “Don’t come any near! Nuh-uh!”

“It cute doh, Monks’!” Buddy giggled, clearly mischievous and before you could stop her, she had placed the caterpillar on the handle of your crutches.

“Buddy! No! Get it away!” You shrieked in fear, jerking your crutch out of your grip, “Get it away! Get it away!” You flung both of your crutches in sheer panic–it went flying, landing with a soft splash in a nearby pond.

You turned to watch your crutches sink slowly, bubbles rising to the surface as they disappeared beneath the water.

“Oh shit,” You mumbled, eyes wide at the realisation of you what you had done, and what was too late.

The field went eerily silent.

“Well…” Kim broke the silence, her tone almost deadpan, “Who’s gonna tell Leah that she needs to buy another pair of crutches then?”

Everyone stood still, staring at the water where your crutches had sunk, leaving nothing but ripples.

The first problem? Your crutches were now submerged in a body of water.

The second problem? Your little sister was absolutely distraught over the sudden loss of her new best friend.

You watched as the tears welled in Buddy’s eyes as she stomped her foot, bottom lip wobbling dangerously, “Ou’ meanie!” She screeched, pointing an accusing sticky-red finger at you, “Ou’ throwed my fwiend ‘way! Dat not nice! Dat so not nice, Monks’!”

“Buddy, mate, listen… It was a bug–” You tried, but she gasped like you’d committed an actual crime.

“NO!  Him was not just a bug! Him was my fwiend! An’ ou’ was a big meanie an’ ou’ throwed him in da water an’ now he gonna get lost an’ he gonna be so sad!” Buddy wailed, her little fists clenching at her sides as she stomped her foot again.

“Monks’ ou’ threw my new friend away!” Buddy wailed, in a state of overwhelming sadness, “Dat is not nice! Ou’ a meanie!”

You groaned, pressing a hand to your forehead, “Buddy–”

“NUH-UH!” Your little sister cut you off dramatically, her sobs turning into full-on ugly crying, “Ou’ don’ even cawe! Him was my bes’ fwiend! I loved him! Now he aww gone foweva! Foweva!”

“OU’ A MURDERER!” Buddy suddenly screamed at the top of her lungs, dropping her basket of forgotten strawberries as she passed an accusing finger right at you, “Ou’ murdered my bestest friend!”

You rolled your eyes dramatically, “Oh, come on, you’re overreacting–you can’t even consider a caterpillar a friend, Shrimp.”

“OU STILL A MURDERER!” Buddy continued to scream aloud, attracting nearby attention from people walking past and giving her a concerned look.

“This isn’t what I was expecting today,” Stina mumbled, scratching the back of her neck awkwardly.

Lia cleared her throat, clearly trying not to laugh at the absolute meltdown unfolding in front of her, “It’s okay, Buddy. I’m sure… uh… I’m sure your friend is swimming happily somewhere now.”

But Buddy? Well, she was having absolutely none of it.

“HIM CAN’ SWIM!” Your little sister shrieked, completely horrified, “HIM GONNA DROWN! HIM GONNA BE SO SO SAD!”

“Oh for god’s sake,” Kim groaned, rubbing her temples, “Buddy,  sweetheart, that bug was not your lifelong best friend.”

“YES HIM WAS!” Buddy argued, hands resting on her hips with a scowl that even made Leah’s took tame.

“Okay, fine, he was. But you cannot stand here in the middle of this field screaming about it,” Kim told her.

Buddy ignored her completely, now throwing herself onto the grass in a full-body tantrum, fists pounding in the ground, “I wan’ him baaaaaaack!” She sobbed, “I wan’ my fwiennnnnnnnd!”

You huffed, throwing your head back in exasperation, “Yo, Buddy this hissy fit is causing a scene. How about… If you stop cryin’ then I’ll go and buy you that new Buzz Lightyear that you really want, yeah?”

Buddy stopped mid-wail, picking herself up off the floor and a big smile appeared on her face, “I wan’ buzz!”

Kim let out a sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose, “You cannot just bribe her out of tantrums, Monkey.”

“Well, it worked, didn’t it?” You pointed out, motioning to Buddy, who was now wiping her tears away like they never existed, already bouncing at the thought of her new toy, “Unless you have a better idea!”

Kim exchanged a look with Lia, who was barely holding in her laughter, “That’s not the point,” She muttered.

“Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!” Buddy started chanting,  dancing around you in excitement, completely forgetting about the “friend” she had been mourning just moments ago.

Lia finally let out a chuckle, shaking her head, “I think we should probably call it a day before she finds another “best friend” to grieve over,” She suggested.

Kim let out a long frustrated sigh, but after a brief pause, she nodded, “Never again. Never. Again.” She spun on her heel and started walking back to the car, clearly over it.

“Wait for me! I got little legs!” Buddy called out, her tiny feet trying to catch up with Stina’s long strides. She clung to Stina’s hand as she toddled along, her eyes wide with excitement.

Lia, ever the softy, took pity on you and your lack of crutches. Without a word, she bent down, easily lifting you onto her back for a piggyback ride, her strong arms making it look effortless.

You let out a dramatic sigh as you settled into the ride, “Can we get McDonald’s on the way back?” You asked, hopeful.

“No,” Kim shot the request down instantly, her voice flat and final.

“Awh, shucks,” You grumbled, “But I’m hungry!”

“Tough,” Kim replied, giving you a side-eye, “You can eat when you get home. We’re heading back now.”

You rolled your eyes, but Kim’s will was as strong as ever. Still, in a rare moment of weakness, she relented, “Fine,” She muttered, “But we’re going through the drive-thru.”

In the end, you scored a Quater Pounder meal with a strawberry milkshake, while Buddy gleefully clutched her Happy Meal with chicken nuggets and a fruit shoot.

“If you make a mess in the back of my car then you’ll be clearing it up,” Kim warned, glancing at you through the rear-view mirror as you happily munched on your burger.

You grinned, stuffing a bite of burger into your mouth, “This is why you’re my favourite Auntie!”

As the car hummed along the road, Buddy’s face twisted, her hand pressed to her stomach, “Auntie Kimmy,” She whined softly, her voice barely audible, “I don’ feel so good…”

Kim’s eyes darted to the rear-view mirror, panic rising in her chest as she saw Buddy’s pale face and the faint green hue creeping up her cheeks, “It’s alright, sweetheart, we’re almost–” Her warning was cut off as Buddy’s small body lurched, and a sickening sound filled the back of the car, “Home…”

“Oh my God,” Your eyes widened in horror, most definitely put off the rest of your McDonald’s–that was until the familiar, queasy feeling hit you too. Your stomach churned in sympathy, “Kimmy! Pull over… Pull over, quick. I’m going…  I’m going to be sick!”

Lia froze, her face drained of all colour, “Oh no,” She murmured, her voice high in panic.

Kim, who usually kept her cool in any situation, was no different. She slammed on the brakes, pulling the car over to the side of the road in one swift motion, the tyres screeching against the asphalt.

You didn’t waste the time, rushing out of the car, hunching over and throwing up your recently eaten McDonald’s into the nearest bush.

“Oh my God, this is… this is not happening. I can’t believe this is happening!” Kim stood outside of the car, her hands gripping the edge of the door, trying to collect herself, “Why does this always happen to me? I try to live a good life, I’m kind to others, I’m helpful, so why does this happen to me?” She muttered to herself, glancing up at the sky like it was going to give her an answer.

Inside the car, Lia had unbuckled herself, quickly getting to Buddy’s side, “Hey, it’s alright, little miss,” She soothed, opening the back car door, “It’s alright, we’re going to get you cleaned up, and you’ll feel better soon.”

Buddy’s tiny face was contorted in distress, tears running down her cheeks, “I… I sorry, Auntie Wally,” She whimpered, her little body trembling, “I… I didn’ mean it,” She sniffled between hiccuping sobs, still clutching her stomach, “I don’ wanna feel sick…”

“I know,” Lia cooed, her heart breaking as she dug around in Buddy’s bag of spare clothes and everything else, relieved to find the baby wipes she was looking for. Pulling one out, she gently started wiping the three-year-old’s face with it, “It’s okay, sweetheart. It’s not your fault. I guess you ate too many strawberries, huh?”

“I didn’t mean to. I sorry. I didn’t mean to be sick!” Buddy cried, distraught with herself.

“It’s okay,” Lia reassured her, still dapping at the corner of her mouth with a wipe, “Do you feel better now you’ve thrown up, hm?”

“I feel bit better!” Buddy mumbled, nodding her head.

“I feel… horrible,” You couldn’t help but continue to gag at the smell of the car as your stomach churned again, “I’m not getting back in that car with it smelling like this! It’s awful!”

Kim gagged, taking an exaggerated step away from the car like it might lunge at her, “Oh my God, oh my God, the smell! It’s in the air! It’s in my lungs! I can’t–” She bent over, hands on her knees, dry-heaving at just the thought of it.

Kim was still bent over, hands on her knees, still dry-heaving like her life depended on it. Lia was busy cleaning up Buddy, and you–well, you had mostly recovered from your own episode, but the menace in you? That part was thriving.

Wiping your mouth with the back of your hand, you straightened up just enough to glance toward the car, then dramatically clutched your stomach again, “Oh no…” You murmured, voice laced with faux dread, “Kimmy… I think I see it…”

Kim let out a panicked wheeze, “See what?”

“The chips,” You whispered ominously, “They’re looking back at me…”

Kim slapped a hand over her mouth so fast it was almost impressive, “SHUT UP. STOP TALKING, MONKEY.”

Which, of course, only made it funnier.

“Oooooh,” You groaned dramatically, clutching your stomach, “And the ketchup too… all mixed up with–”

“MONKEY! STOP!” Kim all but screeched, whirling around to face you, eyes wide with sheer terror, “DON’T SAY IT!  DON’T YOU DARE!”

You staggered back, clutching your stomach dramatically, like you were having some sort of sick-induced vision, “The McFlurry… it’s melting…”

Kim gagged so hard she nearly collapsed.

Lia sighed from inside the car, “Do you have to be such a menace?”

Buddy, now freshly cleaned up but still sniffling, peeked out at you with wide eyes, “I don’ wanna see my strawberries again,” She whimpered.

You softened for a moment seeing your little sister looking so vulnerable, “Aww, it’s okay, Buddy. No more strawberries for you today,” Then with zero hesitation, you spun back to Kim, “But, Kimmy, what if you do see them again?”

Kim shot you a look, “I swear to God–”

You wiggled your eyebrows, “Big. Red. Chunky.”

That was enough to send Kim over the edge as she let out a full-bodied scream, fanning herself like she was about to faint, “I CAN’T. I CAN’T DO THIS. I AM DONE WITH THIS.”

At that, you continued to have a wide shit-eating grin plastered on your face as you stood opposite her, arms crossed over your chest, “Don’t ya just love me, Auntie Kimmy?”

Kim glared, pointing a trembling finger at you, “I hate you.”

You gasped in mock betrayal, “What? But I’m your favourite niece!”

Kim scoffed, “Not when you’re being a pain in the arse. Obviously, it’s Buddy.”

Your jaw dropped, “This is outrageous! And here I thought you loved me, Auntie Kimmy!” You huffed before tossing out, “Well, you’re not my favourite auntie either. It’s Wally.”

Lia, unbothered, simply shrugged, “Naturally.”

Lia strode through the front door, you draped over her shoulder like a misbehaving toddler. The moment Leah saw, her face dropped.

“Oh, I’m having flashbacks,” Leah muttered, her tone half-exasperated, half-amused, “Dare I ask what happened?”

Lia didn’t dignify that with an answer. She just marched straight over to the corner where you’re old timeout spot was and plopped you down without another word.

Meanwhile, Kim followed behind, Buddy on her hip as she gleefully shouted, “To infinity and beyond!” As if nothing had happened, still not fully aware of the chaos she’d caused, “Mummy!” She chirped, leaning out towards Leah.

“Hi Bubba,” Leah’s expression softened as she scooped Buddy out of Kim’s arms, “Have you had a good day with your aunties and big sister?”

Buddy nodded enthusiastically, “Uh-huh! Monks’ is gonna buy me Buzz Lightyear!”

“Oh?” Leah raised an eyebrow turning to face you, “Are you now?”

“Well…” You shifted in your spot, “I kinda promised that I would, and I can’t break a promise now, can I?”

Buddy beamed, “Monks’ pwomised to buy me it cos’ she throwed my bes’ fwiend in da water!”

“Only cos’ you put that little creepy crawly on my crutches!” You exclaimed, shuddering at the memory of what happened in the last few hours.

Leah blinked, “And where exactly are your crutches?”

A beat of silence.

“Oh… Well, they’re in the water too,” You admitted with a simple shrug of your shoulders.

“What?” Leah exhaled sharply, pinching the bridge of her nose, “Do you want to explain yourself, or should I just go ahead and take your iPad now?” Her voice was low. Dangerous.

You scuffed your foot against the floor, refusing to meet Leah’s gaze, “... I was just–”

Leah crossed her arms, levelling you with the kind of look that had you sinking lower into the corner.

“Just not listening and being a complete menace, right?” Her tone sharpened, “I should ground you for a week, but we both know that won’t do anything because I will still have to deal with your whining. So guess what?” She leaned down, voice dripping into something final, something heavy, “Your iPad’s mine.”

Your head snapped up, eyes wide in horror, “WHAT? NO!”

Kim raised an eyebrow at that, shaking her head as she chuckled, “Oof. That is rough, ain’t it?”

Buddy, completely oblivious to your suffering, was too busy singing the Toy Story theme song to care, “You got a fwiend in me–”

Leah simply held out her hand, palm up, expectant, “Give it.”

“Mum, come on!” You groaned, tilting your head back in frustration, “That’s not fair! If you take it, how am I supposed to watch Shrek?!”

“You should have thought about that before,” Leah said coolly, not missing a beat, “Now, hand it over.”

“But Mum, I–”

“You know the rules,” Leah interrupted, her tone unwavering.

You groaned dramatically, flopping back against the wall like you’d been personally wronged, “I can’t give it to you.”

Leah’s eyes narrowed suspiciously, “And why not?”

You crossed your arms, gaze darting to the side, “... It’s on charge.”

“Okay? Go get it,” Leah gestured in the direction with a wave of her hand.

“How, exactly?!” You pointed dramatically at your ankle, “You saw Lia carry me in! I can’t walk without my crutches.”

Leah let out a sharp exhale, pinching the bridge of her nose, “So let me get this straight. Not only have you been winding Buddy up, but you also threw your own crutches in the water?”

“Not to mention she was winding Kim up as well,” Lia mumbled, giving you a knowing look.

“In my defence–”

“There is no defence,” Leah cut in, already making her way to the kitchen where you’d left it on charge before going out.

You sighed, knowing the battle was lost as she returned a moment later, your iPad in hand. You stared at it longingly, already feeling the withdrawal symptoms kicking in, “This isn’t fair!”

“Maybe you should’ve thought about your precious screen time before you decided to be a pain in the arse,” Leah muttered, tucking your iPad securely under her arm, “Maybe you can take this time to think about your actions.”

You groaned, your whole body sagging like a deflated balloon, “But, Mum, it was Buddy-coded,” You tried, voice bordering on desperation, “Doesn’t that, y’know, count for something?”

“It does,” Leah raised an unimpressed eyebrow, “It counts for an extra day without your iPad.”

“What?” You gasped, hands flying to your face in mock horror, “Mum, nooo! That’s not fair! You’re so mean!”

The worst part? You couldn’t even storm upstairs in protest because, well… no crutches. Instead, you slumped in the corner, arms crossed, glaring at Leah like she’d personally ruined your entire life.

“I just want to protest the absolute injustice of it all,” You huffed.

Leah, entirely unbothered, pulled out of her phone, snapped a quick photo of you sulking, and sent it to Jordan with a smirk.

Does this look familiar? 😂 Someone’s sulking because they’ve lost the iPad for the day

A second later, Leah’s phone dinged.

Oh dear. Some things never do change I guess 😬

You're still committed to your silent protest, you slumped further against the wall in exaggerated misery. But then, an idea struck you–one last, desperate act of rebellion.

With a dramatic sigh, you let yourself slide off the wall, flopping onto the floor like a lifeless ragdoll, “I can’t go on,” You wailed, kicking your good foot feebly, “I have nothing left to live for!”

Leah, utterly unimpressed, stepped right over you without so much as a glance.

“Mummy! Can I watch Toy Stowy?” Buddy questioned, oblivious to your dramatics.

“Course we can, Bubba,” Leah agreed, picking up the TV remote and finding the requested movie.

“Oi! At least acknowledge my suffering” You called after her, twisting your head to glare at her retreating figure.

“Yeah, yeah,” Leah waved a dismissive hand, “I’ll be sure to send flowers to your funeral.”

You huffed in defeat as you sat there, slumped and sulking in your own misery, “I’m never speaking to you again!”

… Only to break that promise five minutes later when you realise without your crutches, you were stuck.

“Right, so, uh–” You shuffled awkwardly, “I know I said I wouldn’t speak to you, but… I need help getting up,” You gestured to your ankle and the complete lack of crutches, “This doesn’t mean I forgive you, though.”

Leah smirked, “Yeah, course not. Guess I won’t bother making your favourite dinner tonight then, huh?”

Your head snapped up so fast it was a miracle you didn’t get whiplash, “Whoa, whoa, whoa–hold on just a second now,” You backtracked, eyes wide with panic, “No need to be so hasty, Mum. You know I love my nuggets.”

Leah fought a grin, “That’s what I thought,” She said, her tone teasing yet firm as she turned to Lia and Kim, “Right, does anyone want a drink?” She asked, her smile growing as she enjoyed the playful standoff before making her way into the kitchen with Lia and Kim to leave you to your endless moping about the loss of your iPad and beloved Shrek.

© scribblesofagoonerr

[rubyvhs]

better than this | d. winchester

synopsis. dean notices how close you’ve stuck by him ever since you’ve decided not to kill cass tags. some angst, some mysoginy (dean’s thoughts), series not in order, I’ll just write when I feel like it. the beautiful @daylighted gave me the idea, can’t believe I actually wrote something guys, it’s cause of dahlia <3 series masterlist

Dean found it weird that you were hanging around the Winchesters without you sticking to his side, now it's just creepy. You're everywhere. He can't get a break— and at first he thought that was a good thing because he liked being around you but it's honestly getting ridiculous.

"Hey," He doesn't get past that because you jump up and off the couch to run over to him. Great, your enthusiasm is as much flattering as it is irritating, "Cass, you have anything?" He pours himself a cup of coffee, a headache coming on strong from having gone to sleep with a full stomach.

It happens sometimes but he doesn’t mention it to anyone, just lets the coffee work its magic. Except he doesn’t have the chance to do that because while Cass is explaining to Dean that the angels are now hunting both angels in the cabin, your hand is wrapped around his more muscular one and the headache is just gone.

He jumps away, his coffee just near dripping but he catches it just in time. "What— what did you do?"

"I healed you."

"I know that! Why? Why did you heal me?" The look on your face almost makes him regret yelling but he stands his ground, his hand burning from the hot coffee but your response is the only thing that'll make him move from his spot. 

"Because you were hurt."

"I wasn't hurt, and you usually ask before you do that, you know?"

Cass perks up, "Yes, he has mentioned countless times how important consent is." When y it’s put like that… stop. Dean is not a chick. "Wait, you healed him? You know you shouldn't do that."

Dean's eyebrows furrow. "Why not?"

Cass looks up from the laptop, sensing Dean's change in demeanor. "Oh, well, you have angel blood in you, don't you?" Dean's about to deny the words religiously but he doesn't stop. "It makes it harder for you to get hurt, just as it makes it more difficult for us angel to heal you. It takes more power than if you were a mere human— and you," he faces you, "you're not strong enough to heal evenpeople."

"Not strong enough?" 

"Yes. Before he left," Dean doesn't have to ask who 'he' is, "he made one last generation of angels. There are arch-angels, angels, and guardian angels. She's a guardian Angel." Dean wants to hear more but when he looks over at you, your eyes are narrowed and the only thing your missing is steam out of your ears. Alright, testy subject. 

"Okay, whatever. What do you have, Cass?" He asks and tries to listen to Cass but his eyes keep straying to you, still bubbling, still so damn gorgeous. Still so wrong.

"She's always everywhere! Tell me you don't see it." Dean whispers aggressively but his brother only laughs. They pass the corner, Dean slams the beer cans into the shopping cart and Sam scoffs.

"It's not that big of a deal, man. So she cares about you, what's wrong with that?"

"She doesn't 'care about me', she's like… attached to me! It's creepy, Sam." The taller brother's response dies on his tongue as they make a turn around the corner and she spots your eyes on them from outside the store. Shit. 

"She can hear you." Dean immediately looks around, sighing in relief when he sees you're outside. "She's an Angel, asshole. She heard everything." Dean turns around and your face only falls further, getting in the backseat of the car. 

The drive to the next town is quiet, like most of them, except for the cassette Dean picked out. The volume is slightly higher than usual though and Sam notices so he offers a gas station break that Dean gladly accepts. 

The second Sam's out of the car, pulling Cass behind him, Dean looks back at you, "You know I wasn't trying to be mean, right?"

"You were though."

"You aren't actually— look, you're not my guardian Angel. They only call you that because, and no offense, you're weaker than the others. It's a name they gave you, but it isn't your purpose."

"It's not a name, it's a title. So it is my purpose. I'm supposed to guard you but you don't want me around—"

He sighs, pinching his nose. "Uncross your arms." You listen to him. "And looks at me." You pry your eyes off the window to glare at Dean. "It is not your—"

"Don't tell me what my purpose is! I like protecting people."

"Okay, great, maybe just cool it on trying to protect me, okay?" You shake your head. "Why not? I can take perfect care of myself, darlin', I have for twenty nine years."

"I have been in this world for centuries. Many, many, many centuries. I am weaker than the other angel but a thousand times stronger than you, Dean Winchester, and yet you underestimate me." Your soft sigh tugs on something in his chest. "And I don't know why it matters so much to me."

Sam chooses that moment to rip the door open and dean starts arguing with him about it, his eyes still on you in the rear view mirror. He won't let you stay angry for long, a few nice words will get you smiling again. And never questioning your closeness.

join the taglist. @loverslantern @justwhisperingfantasies @saltcxrcle @blossomingorchids @darling-eos

@ltotheucyy @1967barracuda

[majorlb]

It's kind of nice hanging out with the boys when they don't have cases, but this is the first time that Charles had been lounging about with her alone since their kiss and subsequent 'break up'. If you can honestly break up with someone you never dated in the first place?

She's doing homework, asking questions at times that he answers while he lays on the bed, fiddling with something that looks like a frankensteined rubixcube and a snowglobe. Looking at it directly makes her eyes water, so she gave that up a while ago.

It's nice, and suspiciously quiet, which probably means that Charles is thinking deep about something and needed a place to do it, without Edwin asking questions.

She truly feels like a detective at times. Which is also why she knows that letting Charles decide when to talk works better than pushing when he's like this.

And she doesn't really have to wait that long, just until she's finished with all her assignments. Or maybe he was waiting her out.

"Edwin told me he's in love with me." and I don't know what to do goes unsaid.

"Huh, I thought you'd be the one to crack first." Truly, she did. The moment they told her that they weren't together but acted like the way they were, she thought it was just a matter of time. The fact that it was Edwin who spilled first is a surprise.

"You love him, he loves you. So why are you sulking?" Unless she should quit the detective business just as she's starting. What if Charles isn't in love?

"I'm not sulking! I.. told him I couldn't say it back, but that we'd figure it out. I do love him. I'm in love with him."

This is giving her a headache. "You're in love with him but said you can't say it. Why?"

It takes so long for Charles to answer that if she didn't know better she'd think he'd fallen asleep.

"What if.. What if I mess it up..? What if I hurt him?"

Head. Ache.

"Why would you?"

"I don't know! Maybe I wouldn't notice, maybe one day I'll look up and realize that I destroyed the person I love the most in the entire world and I didn't realize until it was too late! Maybe-"

Maybe I'm like my dad.

She can hear it in the shaky breath he takes. Charles thinks that if he let's himself be in love with Edwin, he'll destroy it all.

This was way heavier than she initially thought it would be. Honestly, she's not entirely sure she's equipped to have this conversation in the first place. But she doesn't know if there are any trauma specialized therapists out there who can see ghosts, so she's all Charles has at the moment.

So she gets up from her desk, sits down on the edge of the bed and pries one of Charles hands away from the rubi-globe-thing, to hold it in her own and stroke her thumb over his knuckles.

He might not be able to 'feel' it, but she thinks it's the thought that counts.

"Charles. Listen to me very carefully when I say this. You are a good person. You are kind, and loyal, protective and sweet. I don't think you could hurt Edwin. I don't think you would either. You marched straight into Hell for him"

"You tried to go too"

"Yeah, but I'm a crazy person. You're just crazy about a person."

It makes him snort and suppress a giggle, so she knows she's on the right track.

"I mean it, though. If you let yourself be in love with him, how much is really going to change? You'd still be Charles and Edwin, Dead Boy Detectives. Partners and best friends. You'd just also kiss an obscene amount"

"Hey!"

"You can feel each other, don't even deny that productivity would go down a lot"

He doesn't. And when she glances at his face, he's smiling, if a bit wistfully.

"Really, though, do you honestly believe I'd let you hurt my friend, Charles? I'll kick your ass."

And- score! She made him laugh, so she lays down beside him and looks up at the ceiling also, waits for him to catch his nonexistent breath.

"I'm going to tell him. When I get back to the office, I'm going to tell him."

"Good! And I'll come visit in like....what three days of smooching should be enough for you guys to start with, right?"

"Crystal Palace Surname Von Hovenkraft! Give me a week, at least."

"Deal!"

[rafessecret]

I need a step!sister and rafe where rafe tells her to come onto toppers boat to hang out with him and his friends and while they are sitting on the boat step!sister is sitting or tanning on top of rafe and all rafes friends thinks it weird or something like that. Sort of a part 2 to the rafe friends fanfic

⋆˚࿔ step¡sister reader && rafe cameron

okay so I already posted a part two because I wrote it then seen this so sorry bit I guess this is kinda part three. ( pt.1 here and pt.2 here )

SUNKISSED SINS.

The sun beats down, the sky stretching endlessly above you, a deep, brilliant blue that mirrors the rolling waves. The gentle sway of Topper’s boat rocks beneath you, the scent of salt and sunscreen thick in the warm air. Rafe had been annoyingly persistent, insisting you come hang out today, and now you know why.

He’s smug beneath you, sprawled lazily against the boat’s cushioned seat, his arms draped along the back like he owns the entire ocean. And in a way, he does—owns this, owns you, at least in the way he watches you, in the way he orchestrates moments like these.

You shift slightly, adjusting your position in his lap, your thighs soft against the hard muscle of his. Your tiny bikini does little to cover you, leaving sun-warmed skin pressed to his bare chest, and you swear you feel his breath hitch against your back when you lean forward to grab your drink.

It’s not subtle. None of this is.

Kelce snorts from where he sits across from you, his sunglasses hiding his expression, but you can hear the disbelief in his voice. ❝Bro… What the actual fuck? Topper’s head tilts, a slow grin creeping onto his face as he glances between you and Rafe, his amusement laced with something sharper. ❝Are you two always this cosy?❞

Rafe just hums, completely at ease. His fingers skim the bare skin of your waist, barely-there touches that send a shiver down your spine, and he grins when he feels it. You don’t respond—just sip your drink, pretending you don’t hear the weight behind their words.

Topper scoffs, shaking his head as he leans back. ❝I mean, hey. If you want to get a little too close to your own stepsister, that’s your business. ❞

The air thickens, charged with something heady, something dangerous. Rafe exhales through his nose, his fingers twitching against you, but his voice remains smooth when he finally speaks. ❝Don’t be fucking weird, man.❞ Kelce lets out a low whistle, nudging Topper’s arm with a smirk. ❝Right. Because sitting on your lap in a fucking string bikini is totally normal. ❞

Your cheeks burn, embarrassment licking up your spine, but Rafe? Rafe just laughs, low and deep in your ear. He tilts his head slightly, his lips brushing your shoulder, a calculated move meant to be both protective and possessive all at once. ❝She’s comfortable with me,❞ he murmurs, voice like silk, but there’s an edge to it—a warning. ❝Not my fault you’re all obsessed.❞

Topper rolls his eyes, muttering something under his breath, but he doesn’t push further. Kelce, though, watches with something unreadable behind his sunglasses, like he’s seeing straight through the act.

But no one says too much—not anymore. Not after last time, when Rafe had snapped, his temper fraying until it exploded in a way that left a bruise of silence over the group. No one wanted a repeat of that, the way he’d stood, the sharp, clipped way he’d spoken, voice laced with barely restrained fury. The way he’d reminded them all, in no uncertain terms, that he wasn’t to be questioned.

It doesn’t matter. Not when Rafe’s grip tightens ever so slightly on your waist, grounding you, making sure you don’t squirm away from him. Not when he’s radiating satisfaction, like he’s won some silent battle.

Like he always does. The conversation moves on, the tension dissipating into something more bearable, and eventually, the boys turn their attention elsewhere. Topper pulls out a speaker, cranking up the music, and Kelce starts passing out drinks, slipping back into the easy, careless vibe of a summer afternoon.

But Rafe? Rafe stays focused. You feel it in the way his fingers trace absentminded patterns against your skin, in the way he lets his thumb skim the curve of your hip as if he has every right to touch you like that. The worst part? You don’t stop him.

You don’t want to.

❝You look good like this, baby,❞ he murmurs, so low only you can hear. His voice is thick with something filthy, something indulgent. ❝Like you belong right here.❞ Your stomach clenches, a slow, unbearable warmth pooling between your thighs at the casual intimacy of it, at the way his breath feels against your neck. You don’t reply; just press your lips together, heart hammering against your ribs.

He notices.

Of course, he does.

Rafe chuckles, the sound rich and knowing, his hand sliding a little lower, pressing into the dip of your waist. ❝Relax,❞ he soothes, his tone dripping with amusement. ❝You’re so tense, pretty girl. They’re not saying shit anymore, are they? ❞ No. They aren’t. Not because they believe him, but because they know better.

And because Rafe made sure of it. The sun is starting to dip lower, the sky softening into a golden haze, casting warm light across the water. The ocean sparkles, and everything feels hazy, dreamlike, the summer heat pressing against your skin, making your limbs heavy and pliant.

You don’t resist when Rafe’s arm tightens around your waist, pulling you further into him, closer, until there’s nothing between you but the thin scraps of your swimsuit and the tension simmering beneath the surface.

He presses a lazy kiss against your shoulder, his lips curling against your skin. ❝That’s my girl.❞ And you can feel it—the way he smirks against you, the way he’s already thinking about the next time he’ll get to push that line even further.

Because Rafe always wins.

And you always let him.

── ⋆ 𝐲𝐚𝐩 : none of it matters when Rafe has her exactly where he wants. Possessive, smug, and just a little too comfortable with what they both pretend isn’t happening. His friends know better than to push too far after last time, but the weight of their stares is heavy, almost intoxicating. And Rafe? He loves it. Loves making sure she knows she’s his, loves how easily she melts into him, even when she shouldn't.

── ⋆ 𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒔 : @scne-vampire

©RAFESSECRET ⋆˚࿔ est. 2025

[ghostofbambifanfiction]

CYOA 69 sneak peak

Since I'm not going to manage to finish the chapter before I go on vacation, rather than gif hints, I've decided to post the opening scene of the chapter beneath the cut. Surprise?

Private WhatsApp Chat Resumed: Monday 28th March, 2022, 00:00 Members: Lily Evans, James Potter

================================

Lily Evans: You're still out, right? For the rest of the day?

James Potter: yeah we got out of the first room early, so i say we, sirius did most of the heavy lifting because i've been completely out of it just waiting for the next one to be ready they said it would take about 25 minutes

Lily Evans: So I suppose I don't have much time to talk to you?

James Potter: that seems to be today's recurring theme

Lily Evans: I KNOW And I'd wanted SO much to have a properly long conversation with you earlier.

James Potter: so did i, but it's alright hey, lily?

Lily Evans: Yeah?

James Potter: are we okay?

Lily Evans: What?

James Potter: it's just that i feel like we might not be, so i wanted to check

Lily Evans: Wait, what? Why wouldn't we be okay?

James Potter: because of what happened earlier

Lily Evans: You're upset about that?

James Potter: no, but i mean, sort of not because it wasn't the best thing that's ever happened to me, because it was but we had an agreement, you made it really clear that you had this boundary in place and that we shouldn't move too fast, except then we did, and i'm worried that i've made you do something that you weren't ready for which i'm so sorry about, if i have

Lily Evans: Have you been worrying about this since we hung up?

James Potter: yeah well not initially because i was still, y'know heaven

Lily Evans: Right

James Potter: but then i started to really think about what it meant and i feel like i got carried away and cocked up, and i owe you an apology

Lily Evans: No you don't!

James Potter: but i do though, we said we weren't going to do this and now we have because i brought up your friend's brother and asked you to tell me you wanted me when i could have not done those things so i don't want you to feel like this is something you have to keep up just for my sake if you need to take a few steps back now, please tell me and we can do that

Lily Evans: JAMES

James Potter: i just don't want to lose you, i don't want to fuck this up Lily Evans: You're NOT going to lose me, okay?? And I really need you to know that I don't want to lose you, either. Yes, I freaked out earlier when you brought up Aaron because I'd been so sure that you KNEW there wasn't a chance I'd be interested in somebody else and then suddenly it dawned on me that things from your end must have seemed more one-sided than they were, so I told you all of that stuff in a rush, but if the trains hadn't been cancelled and I hadn't gotten home so late I would have said it all anyway, James. I would have said it earlier. Only I'd have said it in the way I'd planned to last night, and it would have made me sound a lot less like a maniac. So PLEASE, don't worry about me and my boundaries right now, because I feel really good about what happened.

James Potter: you'd planned to say that stuff today?

Lily Evans: Yes.

James Potter: because of my birthday??

Lily Evans: Not because it was your birthday, obviously it BEING your birthday made it more of an ideal time, but no. I wanted to say it to you because honestly, James, I think we should just go for it.

James Potter: what do you mean?

Lily Evans: I mean IT As in you and me. As in us. I think we should actually BE an us.

James Potter: you mean be a couple?

Lily Evans: Yes, a couple. Let's be a couple. That's what I want. Is that what you want?

James Potter: lily are you sure? are you REALLY sure?

Lily Evans: Yes, I'm sure.

James Potter: because i don't want you to rush into anything you're not ready for i meant it when i said i was happy to wait

Lily Evans: I know, and I appreciate you so much for that but I promise you, I'm ready. I'm there. I am. I am mad about you, I want us to be together, and I'm SO sick of only being able to half-acknowledge it when all I want to do every minute of every day is let you know it. I said I was frightened and I wasn't lying, but I'm also sick of letting my life be dictated by a bunch of fears and insecurities that aren't going to go away if I wait patiently for them to leave. I have to actually DO something to confront them. So I want us to go for it. I can't be just friends anymore.

James Potter: right

Lily Evans: Unless this isn't sounding good to you and I've completely misread the situation?

James Potter: GOD NO LILY you haven't misread AT ALL i'm just stunned

Lily Evans: Oh. Okay.

James Potter: because i wasn't expecting this i was expecting the opposite after this morning, honestly i thought i'd fucked up somehow i'd thought you were going to want to take a step back

Lily Evans: No, I don't, I really don't, I'm so tired of taking steps back, James. I want to move forward. I want to move forward with you, because I trust you and I know how much you care about me, and I care SO much about you, and I think we could be really great together, you know? I think we could make each other really happy.

James Potter: lily we ARE great together

Lily Evans: WE ARE

James Potter: I KNOW

Lily Evans: WE ALWAYS HAVE BEEN

James Potter: from day one i've always said it i mean, not to you, i was terrified to say it to you but remus and sirius have heard a LOT about it

Lily Evans: Well, I want you to say it to me now, please. Because, you know, if there's a full James Potter experience that I've been missing out on while we've been just friends for the past year and a bit, I want in as soon as possible.

James Potter: oh, there's an experience

Lily Evans: I thought so.

James Potter: very exclusive though

Lily Evans: I should bloody well hope it is, I'm not sharing you with anyone else.

James Potter: there's a single entrant limit, what do you take me for?

Lily Evans: There's not a dress code, is there?

James Potter: dress code is wear whatever you want or wear nothing

Lily Evans: And I can alternate between both?

James Potter: don't let my personal preferences dissuade you from putting on clothes

Lily Evans: I kind of have to if I want to keep my job, right?

James Potter: right so we're together then? properly together? you and me?

Lily Evans: That's what I want, more than anything. I mean that. So if that's what you want too, then yes. Please.

James Potter: OF COURSE THAT'S WHAT I WANT

Lily Evans: Unless you'd rather not share our anniversary with your birthday?? I don't know how you feel about that. Although it is after midnight HERE.

James Potter: you're talking about anniversaries you're talking about OUR anniversary lily LILY

Lily Evans: I mean, yeah? I just assumed. Are you okay with that?

James Potter: AM I OKAY WITH IT LILY LILY EVANS

Lily Evans: ????

James Potter: i'm sitting here in a waiting room trying to look like i'm not having a heart attack while you tell me that all my dreams are coming true and you're wondering if i'm OKAY with it?

Lily Evans: You have dreams that are unrelated to me!

James Potter: ALL MY DREAMS, LILY i can't believe this is happening this isn't real i'm going to wake up any second, aren't i? i passed out on my bed or something. this can't be real it can't be you're SURE?

Lily Evans: YES I'M SURE

James Potter: you're not worried about rushing into anything??

Lily Evans: No, honestly, I've been thinking about that, and would it even BE rushing into anything when you're still travelling until July and we'll have already been together for a solid three months, long distance, by the time you get back?

James Potter: right yeah so you're cool with that? with the distance?

Lily Evans: Yes, of course, we've been apart this whole time and it hasn't done a thing to get in the way of us becoming as close as we have. And I trust you. I trust you SO much. I just don't want to keep holding things back.

James Potter: you mean everything to me, lil everything in the world you're it for me, you always have been if i tell you that i would do anything for you, i'm not exaggerating, because i really really would i'm sorry if that's too much, it's true though, that's how i feel

Lily Evans: It's not. It's not too much at all, I feel the exact same way. You're it for me too. You really are.

James Potter: and i'm going to do everything in my power to make you happy, alright? i promise i promise that i'm never going to take you for granted for fuck's SAKE they want us in the room now i literally just went and hid in the toilet twenty seconds ago but now sirius is banging on the door one sec, i'm going to tell them that something's come up and i can't do it

Lily Evans: No, it's okay! Do it, it's fine! Sirius has a bunch of genuinely cool plans for your birthday that you deserve to enjoy and I really need to go to bed anyway, hell week starts in the morning and I'm going to need SOME sleep to get through it.

James Potter: lily i will tell everyone in this building to fuck off right now if you want me to, it's fine

Lily Evans: No really, don't! Last night I was convinced that I wanted to have this perfect, planned, lengthy conversation about us, but honestly it really doesn't matter how it happened, I'm just so happy that it did.

James Potter: i'm crazy about you, do you know that?

Lily Evans: I'm crazy about you! You're all I bloody think about!

James Potter: YOU'RE ALL I THINK ABOUT TOO HENCE THE CAPS FOR EMPHASIS

Lily Evans: Okay so GO HAVE FUN and I'm going to go to bed and try to sleep and I'll text you in the morning and we'll sort out a time to talk PROPERLY and figure all this out, okay?

James Potter: okay okay okay jesus, my heart's beating so fast i might collapse

Lily Evans: Lol mine too, I'm going to need the blue Nytol to sleep tonight.

James Potter: i'm going to need a mallet to the head

Lily Evans: Tire yourself out having THE BEST time tonight and you'll be alright. Now get out of the loo and escape the room, I adore you.

James Potter: i adore you too, you goddess of a woman

Lily Evans: Okay I'm GOING TO BED or else you're never going to leave that bathroom and I'm going to be a zombie with eye bags at work tomorrow.

James Potter: you could not sleep for a week and still be beautiful

Lily Evans: STOP

James Potter: NO I WILL NOT STOP, IT'S LITERALLY MY JOB TO TELL YOU THAT NOW

Lily Evans: OKAY DON'T STOP BUT LEAVE THE LOO, OKAY?

James Potter: I'M LEAVING NOW

Lily Evans: Okay GOODNIGHT, I miss you already x

James Potter: GOODNIGHT i miss you too x

[levissslutt]

Warnings : 18+ MDNI smut, car sex wc : 2809

The mechanic

"Son of a bitch." You cursed under your breathe as your red convertible broke down on you again. This was the 3rd time this month, all the fucking theatrics were pissing you off.

Sinking down into the drivers seat your lip began to tremble, just a soft knock on the window made you jump.

You turned seeing a man leaning to peer into your window, but not low enough to be creepy, all you could really see was his salt and peppered beard.

"Hey- uh my shop is just across the street, I saw you break down a minute ago, you need a hand? Its going to get dark soon." He spoke through the crack in the window.

You turned slightly to see the man better. He wasn't bad looking, cute smile, caramel skin, and soft brown eyes that held sincerity. He looked almost tired. But they darted around yours, not missing a detail.

"I got my little one back in the shop, he's doing his homework, but we can stay out here tho , I don't mean no harm, just willing to give a hand." He held his hands up.

The man seemed a little older than you, but you nodded, praying to whoever was listening that this was just a genuine human being.

Stepping out of the vehicle with a huff, you shook his hand.

"Hi, I appreciate it Im Bella."

He shook it back, eyes flickering to your lips.

"Im Josh, and like I said before that's my shop right across the street, with the sign."

You sighed realizing you had barely said a word to the man.

"Im sorry, I don't mean to come off rude, its just- been a long ass day."

He let out a low breathy laugh. "Im already knowing."

"What's a young lady like yourself doing out here at this time of the night."

He watched you silently, taking in the cute pout on your full lips.

"Well I own a yoga studio in the city, but I stay just up the street in those quiet townhomes."

His face had lit up, "for real? me and my lil' man stay over there too."

"Whattt- that's crazy. Ive been over here for about four years now, but about a year ago I was in a bad wreck and Ive just been having the worst luck with replacements." Your mood lightened a bit learning of a new face in the area.

He chuckled lightly as you ranted at your dilemma.

“ Well I gotchu, lemme take a look.”

You perked up even more, "you really wouldn't mind helping me?"

He chuckled, " not at all."

He moved with confidence to the drivers side door popping up the lever for the hood, then wrapping back around to prop it open. You sat on the curb, to the left of him watching him silently. You told yourself at first you were making sure he wasn’t doing anything he wasn’t supposed to be…..that’s why you were checking him out…yea!

“So this yoga studio you own, giving you good business?” His question broke you out of your thoughts.

“Blessed ain’t even the word, if I keep hitting my monthly goals like i’ve been these past few years I might be able to open another location by the end of next year, what about you and your shop?”

He let out a low whistle, impressed. “You got a genuine vibe to you I can tell you got a good head on your shoulders, you keep up that tunnel vision, it’s up from here.”

You smiled at the older man, not expecting his compliment.

“But, contrast to you I might have to close this shop down, which sucks, however this is my 6th location in the state.”

Your head snapped up, “man what you got me beat, six locations is incredible, that’s wassup.”

He continued working with easy confidence, chucking at your comment. “Not even, this was my pops business, and I took over when he passed.”

His eyes flicked to your bare thighs as he tightened a cap, and popped the lid closed. You caught it.

“Oh wow I’m sorr- wait are you done ?”

You got up not even registering his movements until he leaned onto the hood, looking smug. “Crank it up for me ma and tell me.”

Your stomach flipped at the way he was looking at you now, not necessarily staring, but watching very closely. Taking in your work out attire and the dip in your hips. ' Damn she fine.' He thought.

Sliding into the driver seat your turned your key, the car started immediately, smoothly. Your mouth was slightly agape, as you leaned back into the seat.

The man rounded to the passenger side, grinning ear to ear. “I got the magic touch just like pops” he grinned, tapping your window.

Rounding the car he made his way to stand right in front of you now, watching you with those deep brown eyes, since he’d come to your widow from his shop you couldn’t peel your eyes away from him, the tension building with each second.

He felt it too.

Gathering yourself you tried to sound neutral, “so what now Mr. handy man you want a payment.” You should not have said that.

His eyes glossed over with something dark, it only flashed for a second, and just as fast as it came it had gone, leaving a devilish grin in its place.

“I got something in mind, Ms. yoga instructor .”

Your lips parted slightly as your breath shortened, chest rising and falling slightly faster. Taking a step towards you the man was now inches from you…watching.

“Tell me something else ma.” He drawled, eyes twinkling.

“Hmm?” You couldn’t say any actual words now or your voice would've cracked at the tension that was now brewing in the air.

“You flexible?”

The fuck

Raising an eyebrow at the man, you scoffed.

Chuckling he threw his hands up, “you asked me for a payment…..ma.”

“And to think you was just a sweet mechanic trying to help out a poor helpless girl.” You laughed, but it held no real bite, considering the way he was eye fucking you, also considering how much you were enjoying it.

His smile stretched showing, his capped canines.

‘Oh?, you hadn’t noticed those before.’

The sight only made you squeeze your legs together slightly, but he caught the movement nonetheless, smirking.

The two of you locked eyes, your breathing had hitched, and before you could think too much you slid onto the center console, inviting him into the drivers seat.

He slid in smoothly, shutting the door, with zero hesitation.

Now that he was in your car, and you were all but pressed up against his side, you really took the time to look at the man. He had grey hairs that littered his hair all the way down to his beard. Contrast to all the grey, his face held not one wrinkle, his lips were full and pink, and his eyes were small and oval, that twinkled as you eyed him.

Chuckling he rubbed his hands together, "so you gon stare me down and not come sit on my lap huh?"

His voice was lower now, dripping wit a dark undertone. "Come here girl."

Slowly you forced yourself to move. You were grown, he was grown, why the fuck were you acting so shy, cause what you really wanted to do to him was fuck him to tears.

Your legs finally moved, and straddled him in the drivers seat, his large hands came and rested on your thighs, circling his thumb in slow deliberate motions.

His eyes were locked onto you, he was already taking a chance even asking something like this of a literal stranger, but you looked so damn good it didn't make no sense.

"I know you want to ma, go head'."

"You in my head or sum Mr. Mechanic?"

"Not at all pretty girl, I just see where your eyes lingering the most."

He leaned in inches from your lips.

Without wasting another second, you reached up running your fingers through his beard. He sat back, smiling with a satisfied hum. You couldn't help but marvel at how soft it was.

His hands slid from your thighs to your waist, pressing you flat against him, lips crashing into each others. With the engine running, the only sound was, that, the engine.

He didn't let you up for a second, he engulfed you, kissing you as if you owed him- ohh wait. You did owe home.

Your hips stuttered into his as you shuddered at the chills running up your back. His hands began to roam as he tongued the inside of your mouth, fighting and immediately winning for dominance.

He pulled back for a second to you let you catch your breathe, a string of saliva falling from the connection.

"Fuck girl." His hips bucked up lightly, his hardening length creeping up your thigh.

He breathed into your cheek before peppering kisses along your jaw. His hands were traveling, now moving up your stomach to your boobs, cupping the soft mounds.

He grinned into the sloppy kiss at the fact that you didn't have a bra on.

Your heart hammered into your rib cage, you were positive he could feel it, but it didn’t stop his movements.

You had to take control of the situation because there was no way in hell you were about to let him dominate you, he was going to get fucked, not you. After all you did owe him.

Pushing yourself off of him you attempted to get in between his knees on the car floor. After pushing the seat all the way back, you had a percent view of him.

His clothes were dirty, obviously, he's a mechanic, but his skin was soft and vibrant. Regardless of the way he looked he smelt of something clean and earthy, and something slightly masculine as well.

You eyed him as your fingers curled around his waistband, pulling them low enough for his member to pop out, slapping his stomach.

'Fuckin hell'.

Your eyes didn't leave his, and he was too mesmerized to tear his away from yours. Your tongue found his tip, swirling around the swollen head.

He jerked beneath you, growling lowly at the feeling. You worked his head, until his breathing was faster, chest rising and falling. Sinking your mouth all the way onto his length, causing his breath to hitch, and his hand flew to the back of your head, guiding you.

Your eyes met his as you came up, letting him out your mouth with a 'pop.'

"You keep sucking my shit like that I might need a yoga membership."

You smirked at the man, you were nowhere near done with him yet. You took him back in your mouth, you were utterly satisfied watching his hooded eyes flutter shut at the sensation.

His breathing picked up rapidly as you bobbed your head on his length, his hips slowly began to move into your head, needing some friction. Your hands found his balls, fondling them gently in rhythm with your mouth. He was squirming now, small whimpers escaped the husky man above you.

What a beautiful sight that was, he may have had you quiet a bit ago when he first walked up to the car, but now? All you could hear was the sounds of his tip hitting the back of your throat, the sound of you swallowing him whole in your mouth.

"Fuck ma, im finna nut."

His hips were jerking into you now, his hand in your hair, a guide for his movements. Tears brimmed your eyes from the force of him hitting the back of your throat, but you didn't care. You were going to unravel this man.

Your hands moved to rest on his thighs as he continued face fucking you, his mouth agape, and brows furrowed, you watched him closely.

His eyes were glowering into yours, he couldn't believe this was actually happening.

His breaths were short and jagged, he jerked underneath you again.

"Here I go baby." He whispered. His movements didn't falter at all and without warning, he shot his load into the back of your throat, warm and thick. It was all you could do not to throw it back up on him, he knew damn well he was wrong for that, not to worry you still were not done with the mechanic.

Before he could gather himself you pushed yourself onto him, his eyes widening slightly. He watched you slide your yoga shorts down hovering just above him.

His eyes were all but twinkling at this point.

"You bout to ride my shit pretty girl?"

He didn't even try to hide the wicked grin plastered on his face.

You nodded biting your lip, taking him into your hand you slid his tip up and down your entrance coating his tip in your essence. Fuck a condom honestly. His hands were trembling on your waist from pure pleasure, you weren't going to let him up tho.

Without warning you sunk onto his length, causing his head to drop onto the back of the seat.

“Fuuckk Josh.” You hissed.

He felt so damn good, kissing all the right places you needed him too. His hands found your ass as you adjusted to his size.

You were completely naked in front of him, no way did you think this is how this interaction would go….you sitting on is dick.

His eyes fluttered as he watched you, in pure ecstasy.

“You look so damn good girl.”

He nipped at your neck and then your boobs, leaving a trail in its path. Your hips were bouncing on top of him in steady movements that made your thighs burn but you didn’t care.

You wanted to fuck this man .

Your pussy was clenching onto him as if she’d never been filled before, and honestly the way he was fucking back into you…..maybe she hadn't.

Your hands found his shoulders for stability as you snapped your hips together, the windows were fogging up and his son was long forgot about, hope that boy got a lot of homework.

He was getting ready to flip you into the back when you stopped him, running your hand up the back of his neck, your fingers curled around the end of his long mullet, grabbing a fist full of his curls, jerking his head back to look at you.

“This my shit Joshua .” You growled into the base of his ear. That cocky smirk of his gone, now replaced with an exasperated look. Begging.

You weren’t letting up on the man, the burn in your thighs only adding to the knot forming in your stomach. His hands were rested lazily on your hips as he was a whimpering mess underneath you.

All that bite he had was gone, and you had him right were you wanted.

“You want me to stop Josh?”

You peered down into his eyes as you whispered to him.

Had it not been for the fact that you were 2 centimeters away from his face, you would’ve missed it.

Tears brimmed the man’s eyes as you fucked him. Riding him in the drivers seat of your car.

“N- no ma don’t stop.”

You could barely make out his words, a hushed whimper left his lips, like he don’t want you to hear him. Fuck that.

“Let me hear you pretty boy.”

He almost couldn’t take that, letting out a string of moans, eyes rolled to the back of his head as your right hand still gripped his hair. His hips had given out as you rolled yours into him, leaving small kitten kisses on his neck.

The knot in your stomach was ready to give out just at the sight of him alone, let alone the way he pulsated inside of you.

“F-fuck me ma.”

You grinned, hips grinding into his.

Without warning his hand gripped your neck as you pounded into him, using that leverage he began snapping his own hips back into your pussy.

Sending ripples through your ass. At this point you were seeing stars. The way his hips stuttered, indicated that he was too. You fucked each other into oblivion. The edges of your vision blurred as your orgasm hit you like a tidal wave, him following shortly behind you.

His moans were loud, filling up the tiny space.

"Gah damn ma, I just. nutted. all. in yo shit."

He was breathless, dragging out each word like he'd just run a marathon. Your head rested on his chest eyes fluttering.

"I might break yo car again just to have you ride me like that one mo' time mama."

You grinned, too tired to move an inch, "yea right boy you wish." Voice hushed and fucked out.

He only chuckled at you, as your eyes fought to stay open.

"You just fucked me like a side piece and now you done fell asleep."

He watched you fight to keep your eyes open after that workout, but ultimately failed.

No way you just fell asleep butt ass naked in your car in the arms of a stranger, how tf was you supposed to get home.

---

When you woke your hips were deliciously sore, unable to even stretch properly. When your eyes finally fixated on the room that laid out in front of you, you were in your bed. In your house.

"How the fuck did I get here.."

[berberriescorner]

“Weight of the World”

Characters: Husband!Rio x Black!Reader.

Summary: A restless night brings old fears to the surface, but Rio won’t let you face them alone.

Warnings: Mentions of past emotional trauma, self-doubt, and nightmares; themes of vulnerability and reassurance; soft but firm Rio.

A/N: My babies I finally got a sprinkle of inspo. and wrote a little somethin’. I've been super stressed lately and channeled that into this lil fic. Hopefully I still got it like that and y’all enjoy it🫶🏾. Also had a little Atwater inspiration so be on the lookout for that as well.

Word Count: 900+.

“One minute, I’m sleeping good, rolling over to reposition, and grab a handful ass. Only to wind up gripping some damn sheets. What you doin’, mama?”

Your eyes remain focused on a steaming hot mug of tea as you release a sigh.

“Mama,” Rio rasps, swaggering toward you. His knuckles feather your jaw, before slipping under your chin. He angles your head toward him, forcing your eyes to lock. “You had another nightmare, didn't you?”

You tug away, focusing your vision elsewhere.

“Hey, mm-mm. Look at me.”

Out of habit, you submit and exhale, “It’s fine, Rio. I just want to stay up long enough that it won't resume once my eyes shut. Go back to sleep, papa.”

“When did I become a fuck boy?”

You look at him incredulously. Your eyes narrow to slits as you rear back offensively. “What are you on about? Who said you were a fuck boy?”

“You expect me to just leave you down here to get at your demons alone? If so, then that's what you must take me for.”

“Christopher, that's not at all what I'm trying to say. You got shit to do in the morning-.”

“And you don't? Being a mom ain't a full-time job, sweetheart?”

“For the love of all things holy! Why are we going back and forth over a damn nightmare?”

“Cause I done told your ass to stop suffering through shit alone. Look, I'm not trying to argue. Could you just stop trying to take on everything by yourself? You exhaust all avenues before asking for help. I'm not with that shit, darlin’. You stay on my ass about opening up. Give me the same courtesy.”

If it's one thing your husband knows how to do. It's checking and setting you straight.

Abandoning your coffee mug, you cross your arms, staring down at your lap. The silence stretches for a few moments. “I’m sorry,” you whisper. “I just don't want to be a burden.”

Rio sucks in a breath, giving his head a firm shake. He takes a seat next to you on the couch. “How we feeling right now? Do you want space? Of course when I say space— I'm referring to the other end of the couch,” he says with a straight face. “Can I touch you?”

You sniffle, wiping at the tear that skates down your cheek. “Of course, you can touch me. Thank you for asking though. Consent is sexy,” you joke trying to lighten the mood.

Rio responds with a lopsided grin, “There’s my girl. Come here, baby,” he rasps, pulling you into his lap. Your head tucks into his neck out of habit as he rocks you.

“I don't know how many times I’m going to have to tell you this, love. I'll say it until I'm blue in the face. You have never been, nor will you ever be a burden. I'm not upset that you keep thinking this way. Your brain is just being mean to you. That's how you were raised, and what you've been told from the ones who were supposed to love and protect you most.”

Rio’s lips ghost over your forehead, stopping to pepper kisses across your hairline.

“Not only did they break you down, but they had you believing you weren't worthy of love. Which led you to search for it in people who knew and took advantage of that. They broke what little trust you had left in the world.

Rio’s fingers slide up and down your spine in slow, soothing strokes, his warmth seeping into you. “But that shit stops here, mama. You hear me?” His voice drops lower, a raw edge scraping against the tenderness of his words. “You ain’t gotta search no more. You ain’t gotta prove shit to me. You already got me.”

Your breath hitches, and you burrow deeper into his lap and chest. “I know,” you murmur, voice small.

“Nah, I don’t think you do,” he counters softly, his fingers tilting your chin up again so you can’t look away. “If you did, you wouldn’t be sittin’ here feelin’ like you gotta carry the weight alone.”

You blink up at him, feeling exposed in a way that makes your throat tighten. But Rio doesn’t push. He just waits, patient in a way only he can be with you. And when the words finally slip past your lips, they’re barely above a whisper. “It’s just… sometimes I feel like if I don’t handle it myself, then I don’t deserve help. Like I gotta earn it.”

Rio exhales sharply, his grip tightening around you like he’s trying to physically hold together the pieces of you that someone else shattered. “That’s bullshit,” he says plainly, his forehead pressing against yours. “Love ain’t about earning, baby. It’s about givin’ and takin’—without keepin’ score.”

A fresh wave of emotion crashes into you, but before it can pull you under, Rio’s hands are there, grounding you. He tugs you in closer, his lips finding your temple. “Let me love you the way you deserve, yeah?” he murmurs against your skin.

You nod, eyes squeezing shut. “Okay,” you whisper.

He pulls back just enough to search your face, thumb swiping away the dampness on your cheek. “Okay,” he echoes, pressing one last kiss to your forehead. “Now, you wanna sit here for a bit? Or you comin’ back to bed with me?”

You sniffle, nuzzling into his chest. “Bed,” you admit.

“That’s what I thought,” he says smugly, standing up with you still wrapped around him. “See? Gettin’ better already.”

You huff a small laugh against his throat. “You always gotta have the last word, huh?”

“Always,” he confirms, carrying you back upstairs like it’s the easiest thing in the world.

I know this was random as hell, but I just wanted to write some fluffy Rio cuddles😩😍. Reblogs and comments are greatly appreciated.

Tagging some lovelies💜:

@darqchilddaydreamz @astoldbychae @percosim @ravennaortiz @unapolageticallyb @amorestevens @abcdestinyyyy @jannavaire @novaniskye @nobodygetsza @bisexuallyattractivebitch @1andonlytashae @rio-reid-whoreee @lovedlover @sunshine-flower @realhotgurlshit @thebumbqueen @blowmymbackout @tashawar @captainwithoutmakingitlove @theegoddessofmelanin @beachyserasims @tbmotw @wroteitbutneverwatchedit @onherereading @undevidedattentionsblog @starrynite7114

[enhani-ki]

BMF part ii - reader x ni- ki

warnings : smut, nsfw, cursing, mild asphyxiation, etc.

note : reader is desperate & downbad but that's the point of this fic (^_^) part one [here!]

you were thinking about the 'uninterested' ni-ki, the one who texts you:

ok, just shut up and come here already.

the one you were watching as he focused on his phone, barely acknowledging your presence.

"you know," you started, "you could at least pretend you want me here."

ni-ki reached over and squeezed your face using his one hand, his fingers were easily squishing your cheeks together. "you're the only one who wanted to be here,"

you clicked your tongue, "you're really no fun."

he rolled his eyes, leaning back against the headboard, scrolling through whatever was on his screen. "you're free to leave anytime," he muttered.

you whined. he put his phone aside before turning to face you.

"why are you like this?"

you smiled, enjoying the way his attention was finally on you. "like what?"

ni-ki stared for a long moment before shaking his head at you. "nothing, forget it."

you scooted closer, "what if i don't want to forget it?"

"then that's your problem," he replied right away, looking at anywhere but you.

you tilted your head, watching his tired face. maybe he's already exasperated at you, so obviously, you will push his buttons even more.

you reached for ni-ki's hand, interlocking your fingers with his.

he immediately stiffened. "what are you-"

"stay still…" you murmured, running your thumb over his skin. warm and a little rough.

"when will you realize that i'm not so bad?"

he blinked for a while, his eyes kept darting to your intertwined hands, or your face. his fingers twitched—you thought he was gonna yank his hand away.

but instead, he squeezed your hand back.

your eyes slightly widened.

"if you tell anyone about this, i'm never talking to you ever again." he warned, though the tip of his ears were already red.

that ni-ki also always tolerated everything you do... or say..

you talked big games that made him laughed.

always making suggestive jokes, always teasing him about things you barely even understood, acting like you knew what you were talking about.

"i'm making you horny?" he scoffed in disbelief.

and maybe he's not right but he knew damn well you weren't as experienced as you like to pretend you are,

"you don't even know what to do with yourself."

talking about how you're gonna suck his dick or fuck him with no protection, no lubes. you kept saying it around like? stop lying.

riki-san: can i come over to get the record?

ni-ki dropped by your place just to pick up the record you always wanted to lend him. you handed it over and were about to walk him to the door but-

the doorbell suddenly rang.

"i got it," he said, reaching for the door before you could.

he has your package in his hands, he tried to read the label with a confused look.

"hey! give me that," you said, taking it from him before hurrying to your room.

"uh… okay?" he muttered, watching you. "y/n, i'm heading out."

you opened the package with excitement and shouted, "okay, take care!"

ni-ki frowned. normally, you'd at least walk him out, maybe keep clinging onto him until the last second, or even find some excuse to keep him around just a little longer.

now it seems like you're just letting him go way too easily.

so curiosity got the best of him, instead of leaving, he turned back and peeked through your half-opened door…

and there you were, holding up a lingerie.

interesting.

smirking, he pushed the door open fully. "what's that?"

you panicked, scrambling and shoving all the delicate fabric behind your back. "n-nothing!"

ni-ki raised his brow and reached over, snatching on easily from your hands. he held it high and inspected the thin material. "...huh."

"i just want to try..."

try to show him what it would be like if he's your man.

he stared at you for a moment before letting out a quiet sigh. he finally tossed the lingerie back to you then made himself comfortable on your bed, arms crossed.

and as if he had just heard your thoughts, ni-ki muttered "go on, then."

you blinked. "go on… what?"

"try."

you bit your lower lip and looked down, you can feel heat starting to rush to your face.

an amused chuckle escaped his lips after seeing you blush. "what? you're embarrassed? after what we did?"

your mouth opened, ready to argue, but no words came out.

ni-ki grinned and shrugged, leaning back against your pillows, looking completely comfortable. "it's cool, i've seen enough anyway."

and... that annoyed you. he was just teasing you, you knew that, but the way he said it lit a small fire inside your chest. so with a pout, you rolled your eyes at him before grabbing one of the least revealing sets.

but ni-ki, in fact, had not seen enough.

you don't know why you're gonna let this happen, you knew that once you'll step out, he will casually judge you.

and the one you had just currently put on barely covered anything, he could actually see right through it without even trying.

you shrugged and turned to the mirror, tilting your head as you examined yourself. "this one's a bit… tight," you said while adjusting the cups and pushing your tits together just to see how it looked.

ni-ki stood up and didn't say a word. instead, he just stepped close, putting his hands on your waist.

his rings were cool against your skin, sending a familiar shiver down your spine. his hands rested perfectly over your curves, making you let out a slow breath while meeting his eyes through the mirror.

he then reached into his pocket to grab his phone. "hold still," he murmured, and before you could even ask why, you heard the faint click of the camera.

"turn around." he demanded.

you turned to face him. ni-ki's eyes flickered down, scanning you from head to toe, his lips parted slightly as he took in the way the lingerie were hugging your figure.

you just melted, feeling really, really vulnerable under his heated stare.

then he lifted his phone again. you hesitated for just a moment before your hands moved up on their own, reaching around his shoulders.

he smirked. he's been waiting for you to do that.

he snapped another picture. this time, it's with you in his arms, and your body clinging to his.

him in his fit looking cool, while you, dressed in delicate laces, looking undone... it's perfect.

ni-ki put the phone back in his pocket before pulling you even closer. your heart was pounding in anticipation and when he finally dipped his head to kiss you...

good lord.

he pulled back and nipped at the skin just beneath your ear. then started kissing your neck that made your knees weak.

you sucked in a sharp breath and moaned quietly.

"y/n..." he called out.

your eyes rolled back for a second before you caught yourself. "hmm?"

"let's do it," he whispered.

you body stiffened as you turned your head slightly, "do what?" you asked.

"you know what."

your heart started pounding hard and your body felt hot all over.

"s…se…"

ni-ki smiled, capturing your mouth in a deep kiss. "yes," he murmured between kisses, his hands trailing lower.

he turned you around to face the mirror, his hand pressed firmly against your stomach, his chest were pressed to your back as you both stared into each other through the reflection.

you felt dizzy just by the way he held you, with the way his fingers toyed with the hem of your lingerie, deciding just how far to take this.

"you're having fun, aren't you?"

you smiled, jumping a little in excitement "...yes!"

his lips formed a smile again, "yeah?"

you wanted him for so long. you dreamt of this exact moment, imagining how it would feel to have his hands on you, his plump lips devouring yours... but there's really nothing that could have actually prepared you for the way he was touching you right now, unraveling you piece by piece.

"so much," you admitted.

he hummed in satisfaction. he slid his hands down, gripping the back of your thighs before lifting you. you wrapped your legs around his waist. he carried you over to the bed like you weighed nothing.

he laid you down, you had just enough time to breathe before he was all over you again, kissing you senseless, hands roaming everywhere.

you moaned against his lips, body arching up into his as it teased their way down. "can you slap me?" you blurted out.

ni-ki froze, not sure if he heard you right. "i'm sorry?"

you swallowed. "can you slap me? just so i know i'm not dreaming."

he stared at you, completely dumbfounded but then chuckled,

"i promise you, you don't need that."

he pushed your legs apart with ease, pressing his dick against your crotch before kissing over your jaw, trailing down to your neck, sucking hard enough to leave faint marks behind.

his fingers tugged at the delicate fabric, snapping the thin strap against your skin to hear your little gasp.

the way you were whimpering for him, the way you clung to him like he was the only thing keeping you grounded... it was driving him insane.

he lined himself, smearing his own spit before pushing inside you in one slow stroke.

your mind went blank the second felt his cock. your mouth parted, but no sound came out at first, then followed by a sharp, broken gasp.

ni-ki groaned, his hands gripping your thighs, looking down as he watched the way his cock slowly slid in and out of your pussy. "mmh, shit,"

"riki- oh my god-" you moaned. his jaw clenched at the way you said his name, his restraint hanging by a thread.

you gripped onto his shoulders. his forehead dropping to yours as he fastened his pace, stretching you so passionately fast and perfect.

"you- you feel so good," he kissed you, his fingers traced your throat, feather-light, before gently wrapping his hand around it, feeling your pulse quicken beneath his fingertips.

you swallowed, looking up at him, "riki..."

he dipped his head down, latching onto one of your nipples. his tongue flicked over the bud before sucking hard, groaning against your skin as he listened to your loud moans. he licked, sucked, bit down,

you gasped in pain, fingers tangling in his hair, tugging him closer and fuck— he could bust a nut just from the way you reacted.

he moaned against your tits, losing himself more in your warmth, your taste. your walls clenched around his cock every time he flicked his tongue. ni-ki moved to your other breast, giving it the same attention, lapping at your sensitive skin, making sure to leave marks all over you.

then he choked you slightly, enough to make your head spin as he leaned in to devour your lips.

rolling his hips, he's hitting your spot with every thrust, your fingers clawed at his arms. the added pressure making your head buzz. "ah-"

"shh" he soothed, grip loosening slightly. his thumb stroked over your skin before tightening its grip on your neck again, perfectly in sync with his deep, slow strokes.

his lips hovered over yours, catching every whimper, every desperate moan that slipped past your lips as he tried to hold back his own release.

"look at me, please," he murmured. you forced your eyes open, "i wanna see you when you cum."

a desperate whine left your lips as his thrusts got faster, his body were pressing you so hard into the mattress. the bed was creaking so hard, threatening to break.

he reached down between your bodies, rubbing fast circles over your clit. "riki- ah, i can't-"

"you can," he whispered, pressing his forehead against yours. "cum for me, baby."

"no! i can't-"

it's hard, you're panicking, you didn't know what to do but ni-ki kissed you, assuring you "it's okay, just let go," he said, brushing stray hair off your face. he felt your entire body tensed, shaking beneath him.

you were already cumming, and despite being so tired, he managed to give you a smile.

he groaned, burying himself deeper as he followed right after, shuddering, spilling his hot load into your thighs.

your mind floated somewhere between reality and whatever haze ni-ki had left you in. he exhaled, running a hand through his damp hair before turning his head to look at you.

"you good?" he asked, his voice was a little quieter than usual, and hoarse.

you blinked at him, still trying to catch your breath. "i- yeah..."

ni-ki chuckled, rolling onto his back with one arm resting behind his head then, his other hand reached out, tugging lightly at the strap of your lingerie. "i really ruined this,"

you turned your head too to look at him, still dazed, lips parting slightly. "it's fine… i bought it for you."

he took a deep breath and sighed, shaking his head before rolling over to face you completely. "guess i have to buy you more of these..." he murmured, more to himself than to you.

you brows furrowed. "huh?"

instead of answering, he just smirked slightly and pulled the sheets over the two of you. "nothing. go to sleep, dumbass."

despite everything, despite the heat still clinging to your skin, and the way he still haven't moved away from you, you found yourself obeying.

your eyelids grew heavier but before sleep could fully take over, you can't help but ask:

"…are you going to leave once i fall asleep?"

ni-ki didn't answer right away but then, his hold at your waist tightened. "no," he murmured.

"promise?"

he hummed yes, then ni-ki moved closer and whispered "if you want..."

"...you can just tie me or lock me up here."

your eyes widened, "you'll let me do that?!"

"yes, i'll let my girl do whatever she want."

you hugged him.

"you are good for me, so patient… always taking care of me, always waiting for me."

his words made your chest tighten, a fresh wave of tears pooling in your eyes. "so pretty..."

"you trust me so much," he murmured, brushing your hair away from your damp forehead. "letting me fuck you like that, letting me have you like this."

you sniffled, unable to say anything, just looking up at him with glossy eyes.

ni-ki wiped away another tear with his thumb before pressing a soft kiss to your lips, slow and tender, like saying everything he couldn't put into words.

he whispered against your lips, "i'm so fucking grateful."

his hands roamed over your skin, grounding you, soothing you as he pulled you into his chest. his heartbeat were steady, like a comforting rhythm against your ear.

"you okay?" he murmured, tilting your chin up to look at you again.

you nodded weakly,

already touching yourself under the blanket while hearing his praises.

ni-ki gave you a small smirk, pressing another kiss to your temple. completely unaware of what you're doing. "good." he let his fingers trail over your throat once more, this time with nothing but admiration. "we're perfect together..."

you buried your face in his neck, body still sensitive as he held you close.

he felt your hands moving under, "wha-"

"riki..." you cut him off.

"can i tie you now?"

more notes : had to hold back making another overstimulation smut T-T i also dk what is this lmao but it's so fun to write (plz, there's no part three T-T)

check : BMF part i ; マスターリストm.list

taglist: @dolliewon @ziiao