#but i don't think that excuses the fact that she wasn't a good parent

[spop-romanticizes-abuse]

so a lot of people think that abuela's redemption in encanto was rushed or undeserved, and here are the reasons why i don't agree with them:

she took the initiative to find mirabel after she ran away, and apologize. yes, it's the bare minimum but a lot of people like abuela would simply wait for the other person to apologize or make amends because they're too proud to admit their own mistakes.

alma's apology was well worded and sincere. she explained her backstory to mirabel, but she wasn't using it as an excuse or justification. she was simply giving mirabel more insight to what happened and how she lost her purpose along the way. alma still takes full responsibility for her actions.

she starts making immediate changes. apologizing to the rest of the family, welcoming bruno back into the family, assuring all of them that they're worth more than their gifts, and slowly working on overcoming her perfectionist mindset. this is a lot more than some people can say, since most people just apologize and assume that things will automatically get better.

if this was a show, of course i would expect alma to personally apologize to everyone, especially bruno. but for the runtime of a movie, i think her apologies were pretty good. it wasn't half-assed, you could tell that she genuinely regretted her actions and wanted to do better.

it's not like she got off the hook easy either. mirabel pretty much called her out in front of the whole family and held her responsible for breaking them apart. it was the wake-up call abuela needed.

i like to think that the family didn't instantaneously forgive abuela, but they were simply willing to give her a second chance. and i think that's a perfectly fine thing to do, it allows for growth and redemption.

overall, i understand why people don't like abuela since she is very reminiscent of our own parents, grandparents and other family members who are overbearing and controlling. and i'm not going to force you to like her. i'm just giving you a different perspective on her character.

i also see a lot of people saying this is unrealistic because the abuela almas in their life would never apologize, and they have become jaded. and while i agree that not everyone is willing to admit their mistakes like her, it's not unrealistic.

in fact, media has always been a source of inspiration and self-reflection for people, and i know that there are at least some parental figures out there who watched encanto and realized that they were like abuela, and decided to better themselves because of it.

change and redemption is not unrealistic. it may be uncommon for people like abuela to change and grow, but it's not impossible. it does happen, and the purpose of movies like this is to make that a more common occurrence.

[pineconepie]

Yan king???👀

I had a little fun with the worldbuilding because it gave me an excuse to use one of my old ideas.

I'll explain it briefly because I didn't do much explaining in the writing: there are five major kingdoms in the nation of Lepidoptra - Rosy Maple, Atlas, Luna, Death's Head, and the one where reader is from: Comet Kingdom. Everyone has wings that resemble a moth, along with antennae. (yes moths are a huge hyperfixation of mine)

Just thought I'd get that out of the way lol. Anyway, this is probably one of the most yandere characters I've written mwehehe.

TW: Attempted murder (kind of but not really), parental yandere, manipulation, implied gaslighting, infantilization

...

Ever since you could recall, your father had been very protective over you. He homeschooled you, didn't let you leave the house much, only allowed a few select friends, but those friends were also friends with your dad, and just getting paid to talk to you.

Your father would hold you as often as he could, making sure he was the first and last thing you'd see daily.

He had told you, ever since you were just a young mothling, your wings had been cut off by a robber who attempted to kidnap you, and thus, your father had to be extremely cautious in regards to keeping you safe at home.

You never left the house alone, and even if you did, you were monitored.

Sometimes, you'd get strange flashbacks. Almost like deja-vu, but these felt more vivid in your mind.

Once when you saw Castor, your father's, sword, you had a vision of yourself getting stabbed in the chest. Or when he'd look angry at you, you'd recall seeing that exact expression on his face before. But those thoughts went away as soon as they appeared.

Sometimes you'd get horrible nightmares of him. You dreamed he hurt you somehow. And yet, you'd always wake up feeling fine. Nothing hurt physically.

But mentally? Something just wasn't clicking right.

Recently you began sneaking out of the castle, not wanting to alert your father, and you began going to this little tavern at the edge of town to spend time with your village friends, ones you know for a fact your father would never dream of approving.

"Calliope, Osmond, hey," you greet warmly, walking over to their usual table in the corner, sitting down beside them.

"Hey," Calliope says, leaning her head against her hand. "How was escaping the palace? Almost got caught again?" Her bright golden wings flutter slightly as she grins.

"Nah, Dad doesn't suspect anything at all," you proudly state.

"Good, because he would have our heads," Osmond sighs. He shares an uneasy glance with Calliope, then glances back at you. "We wanted to speak to you about something unsettling we found. About your father."

You hesitate. "If this is about him and the Atlas Kingdom again, I told you already—"

"It's not about that," Calliope mutters. She pulls out a huge book from a satchel, one that barely even fits in it. "Okay, I'm about to warn you, this is weird as hell. Even Oz was weirded out."

"Well if he was unsettled by it, then I'm scared to see what it even is," you say with a breathless chuckle.

"We found it in the royal library," Osmond tells you quietly. "And well, this should explain it." He opens up the book and starts flipping through pages and pages until he lands on one in particular, pointing down at it for you to read.

It has your name and picture on it. Your full name, everything.

At first, you find it slightly strange, but think there may be some kind of explanation. Most of the pictures on the book show you when you were younger, being held on Castor's hip while he made speeches at ceremonies. He looks the same as he does now, except maybe with a bit longer hair.

Then you start seeing yourself getting older...

There's one of a memory you don't even recall, of a headline saying the "(Y/n), Child of King Castor of the Comet Kingdom, joins Arkema Mittrei, Academy" in which you're being handed over to the kingdom's most prestigious academy.

You were homeschooled, that never even happened!

Another one shows you using magic abilities, and you look older than you currently even are. And you have... wings?!

"That was our expression when we read it too," Calliope anxiously says. "We weren't supposed to be in the Royal Library since its always locked and guarded, but we managed to get in with Oz's magic. We were looking for more evidence to prove to you that your father is terrible, but instead we just stumbled upon this."

You don't know what to say. "This doesn't make any sense. I never went to any academy, and my wings..."

"And you look older in these photos," Osmond observes. "I don't know what is going on, but this is just further proof you can't trust him. I know he raised you and you love him, but he's controlling your life and clearly keeping things from you. I knew he caused a lot of meaningless wars and was incredibly paranoid about you, but this?"

"I'm at a loss for words, here," you murmur, shaking your head as you feel tears stinging in your eyes. "What the hell am I supposed to do?! Just confront my dad and hope for the best?"

Calliope puts a hand on your shoulder. "Run away with us," she proposes. "Oz's mom is in the Atlas Kingdom, we can find sanctuary there."

"No way am I just abandoning my dad with no warning," you argue. "Besides, he'd try burning down all of Atlas if he knew I was there! I'll just ask him for an explanation. I'm sure there is one."

"And risk letting him know you've been sneaking out of the kingdom?" Osmond scoffs. "Your death wish, not mine."

"Just give us at least a month or two," Calliope says. "Please. That way we can come up with a game plan."

You exhale quietly, your antennae twitching. "Okay. But no longer."

...

"Uhm, hey, Dad? I wanted to talk to you about something."

"Hm?" He peers his eyes away from the newspaper he's reading and smiles at you. "Of course! Come sit." You hesitate as he pats the seat next to him on the couch, and you reluctantly plop beside him. He hugs you closer to his chest. "So," he hums, kissing the side of your head, "what is it?"

"...have I ever went to Arkema Mittrei Academy?" You watch as his smile drops.

He glances off, contemplating a response before returning his gaze to you. "Oh, sweetheart, where did you hear that? Of course not! I think you'd remember something like that." His laugh sounds nervous. "Have you been having those scary dreams again?"

You bite your tongue. "No. I came across a book in the royal library. I know you don't like me going in there unsupervised, but I did. And I saw pictures of myself at the school, and another one where I'm older, and have my wings. Why do I have no recollection of those moments happening?"

His smile drops even more so, and now, his expression is unreadable. "Where did you get the book, baby?"

"I... uh, I got it in the royal library. I told you that," you stutter.

"How did you get in there unsupervised? There's always guards patrolling the library," Castor explains, narrowing his eyes. "Did someone help you sneak in?"

"What? No!" you lie. You start trying to wriggle out of his grip, but he holds you still.

"Baby," he soothes, almost condescendingly, "just tell Dad what he wants to know. I'm not mad."

He's lying. He's angry. You can't see the expression on his face because he's holding you so closely, but you can feel his rage boiling beneath his skin.

"No, I'm not lying. It was just left unlocked! But that's not my question, I wanna know what I saw in those! Why is there evidence of me doing and experiencing things I have zero memory of?!"

"I knew I should've burnt that damn book," he grumbles under his breath. "I thought you were doing so well this time."

"What do you mean 'this time'?!" you nearly cry, flailing so hard out of his grasp you fall to the floor.

"Oops!" Castor chuckles, standing over you with a cold grin. "Gosh, it feels like yesterday when you could hardly walk without tripping over your feet. Always so wobbly and unstable." He stands up and contemplates on something. "Alrighty, kiddo, since I'm so nice, you have two options. Bedtime and we'll forget about this, or you keep pushing me and we'll see where this takes us."

"What does that mean?" you rasp. "What will you do?"

Castor's bright wings spread out widely, as a show to intimidate you and make you feel smaller. "I really would rather we both just go to bed."

He's never hurt you in the past... "I just want to know what's going on."

"Well, for starters, all that information you think you know is irrelevant, it's been rewritten now," Castor replies nonchalantly, looking down at you. "All those things you saw happened, but you didn't experience them because that wasn't you. Not this you. The original you was too disobedient, so I had to reset and start all over again."

"Reset?!" you repeat incredulously. "What are you talking about?!"

Castor runs a hand through his hair. "Fine. Since you think an explanation is worth it. You can't die. You're immortal, just not in the same way I am. This is like..." He pauses. "...your nineteenth life or so, I believe? Once you die, you turn back into a baby. No injuries, no sickness, no memories. A clean slate. I try to avoid it, but whenever you start rebelling or growing too independent, it has to be done all over again."

"Nothing has to be done! You're killing me, just so you can what?! Watch me grow up again, exactly the same way?! What kind of twisted logic is that?!"

"Don't raise your voice at me," Castor scolds. "I'm not killing you, at least not technically. Besides, I love watching you grow, trying to find the perfect way to raise you. But it seems like no matter how I do so—whether I give you your freedom or make sure I'm the only face you see, you always end up leaving."

You shudder at his cryptic words. "Were you the one who cut off my wings?"

Castor waves a hand dismissively. "Only because you kept trying to run away with them. But they always regrow back once you're reborn." He pulls out a dagger, one you now understand why he always carries it with him.

"Dad, please..." you quietly plead, scrambling back in an attempt to stand up. "I'm sorry. We can let this go."

His eyes darken. "Not an option anymore, sweetie. You asked for answers, and you got them. Hey, maybe the twentieth time is the charm." He lunges for you, holding you down so he can lift his blade. "I'm so sorry, kiddo. I promise it'll just feel like a pinch, and then you'll wake up good as new!" His expression is sweet and adoring, but also crazed.

Just as he brings the blade down and you squeeze your eyes shut, all your hear is Castor's groan of pain.

"(Y/n)!" Calliope yells, grabbing onto your hand and yanking you up.

Castor wipes the blood running down his nose, glaring at the two of your friends. "(Y/n), you made some friends, huh? Must've been sneaking out behind my back for a while if they're jumping in their own graves for you." He gets back to his feet and starts approaching. "Step away from my child before you really regret it."

"Let's go!" Osmond demands, opening up a portal in front of Calliope after she pulled you to your feet.

The three of you tumble in, right before Castor tries attacking you as well.

Then suddenly, you're back outside, standing in the forest where your kingdom stood tall. You can hear him scream in frustration from all the way out here, likely calling for guards and barking out orders.

"He knows magic too," you whisper. "He won't be too far behind."

"I can only make portals so far," Osmond murmurs. "We need to run. Now."

[lyrenminth]

Stood up for you

You didn't want Joe to meet your family. During your first year as a couple, you spent most of the time with his family, until one day he asked you about your parents and siblings. You were as vague as you could be. You wished you could tell him you didn't feel embarrassed, but that wasn't true.

Your family was a mess. You were the middle child, and the only one with a regular income. Your older brother was living with your mom, and your younger sister was married and had two little children. She was also living with your parents. And both of them only talked to you to ask for money. You didn't want to tell them who you were dating because they would be worse once they knew it.

It was, in fact, not nice. Your mom didn't believe you when you told her. She laughed in your face. "Questionable taste" - what kind of mom talks about her daughter like that? Your brother was happy for you, smelling the opportunities Joe could bring. "Maybe I'm gonna start a podcast and he can be my first guest," he told you, all smiles.

Your sister frowned but didn't say much. Your dad was the only reasonable one. He told you he expected Joe to treat you right.

So when Joe told you he wanted to meet your family, you tried your best to avoid the day. But you couldn't - he was adamant. And now he knew why. Sitting at the table during dinner, trying his best to answer all the questions your brother was shooting, your sister tried to sit next to him until your dad told her that was your place. And you could only smile uncomfortably, wanting that stupid dinner to end. Then, your mother decided to talk.

"Well, Joe, you see my daughter is not the sharpest tool of the three," she said so casually. "But I'm glad you like her."

Joe's eyes sparkled with annoyance, and his reply came along quickly. "I disagree with you, Mrs. [Your Last Name]. I think she's the smartest in this room," he said, politely but tensely.

"Oh, no. My son got a degree in a very important university, and her sister is a wonderful mother. Sometimes I lose track of you, honey," she said to you in a fake tone. You felt your face turn red. "You always disappear somehow, but now you are here. We're very happy."

"Thanks, Mom."

"After all, you achieved something in your life," Joe put the cutlery down so hard the table shook a little bit. Everybody looked at him, and he was mad, mad. The vein in his forehead was popping, eyebrows furrowed together and his eyes were fire.

"Y/N is one of the most hard-working women I know. She got a degree in communications and she's incredibly good at her job. I'm proud to be her boyfriend, and I think now I understand her better," he squeezed your hand below the table. His eyes told you everything. I know now why you don't want them - they're nuts. "You should be proud of her, because honestly, ma'am, you are losing wonderful opportunities with your behavior."

The tension could be cut with a knife. Until your dad started laughing. You frowned, confused and frustrated. Joe gave him the side-eye but didn't say anything.

"God, he's a good one," your mother was scowling at him, blushed and irritated.

"The dinner was delicious, the company not so much," Joe added in a salty tone. He stood up and reached for your hand. "Let's go, baby."

You were in shock. You silently took his hand and walked out the dinner room as everyone was watching you. "Excuse us" Joe said to you father, nodding in courtesy.

He took your coat and your bag and gently push you out of the door. "Let's go" he was scowling at everything until you reached the car. Once inside, he let out a deep breath. "I'm so sorry" he apologized, looking regretful.

"It's ok" you whispered, feeling ashamed, and happy and on the verge of crying. You looked straight at the door of your house. Your family house. So many memories there and yet it felt so distant.

"I shouldn't have insist on this. I never thought they would be so..." he stopped looking for the correct word. "Awful?" you suggested.

"Your brother is an opportunist and your sister is clearly jealous of you" he grumbled, starting the engine. "I don't have kind words, sorry"

"It's ok" you repeated, you knew your family well. You let out a shaky breath. Your search for his hand through the console "Thank you for standing up for me"

"No problem" he squeezed it and a slight smile appeared on his lips. "Nobody is going to trash talk you in my presence, ever"

You laughed, he was very secure of his statement though. You felt something flutter in your stomach, spreading through your chest until your ir reached your fingertips. No one has stood for you like this before. He was on your team. "Thank you, baby "

"Everything for you" he winked.

[bluespiritshonour]

Water Siblings and Fire Siblings as Foils

Katara and Sokka are peak sibling rep: they bicker, they hurt each other, they take turns being the voice of reason while the other goes batshit crazy—and they'd die for each other.

And very clearly Sokka's daddy's boy and Katara's momma's girl: and for most parts, they seem to be content with that dynamic.

Look, parents have favourites, let's establish that first: don't come at me for it.

But in a healthy environment, where all of the kids’ emotional needs are met irrespective of which kid gets along with which parent, they're less likely to tear themselves apart yearning for parental affection.

Sokka and Katara's family was a normal one, a healthy one—as healthy as one can be in a war ravaged world—and Sokka and Katara are normal siblings. Even after their mother died Katara doesn't seem to care much that Sokka gets more time with their father. And everytime she brings up their mother Sokka gets this weird look on his face, which, I think is later explained by the fact that he feels guilty that he doesn't even remember what their mother looked like. And it's not because Katara seems to know more about their mother despite being younger.

Neither of them grudge the other for having been close to one of the parents—let's call it ‘being close to’ instead of ‘dad/mum loved you/me more’ because that's what would come up with Azula and Zuko.

One can say that Azula's daddy's girl and Zuko's momma's boy... Except it isn't like that.

Azula wasn't loved by her father; neither was she close to him. If anything she had the illusion that she's close to him. But children can sense when they aren't loved, which can explain why she took her mother being close to Zuko so hard. Because she didn't get that from her father and isn't she supposed to be daddy's girl? But dad's good to her; mum... isn't. Dad lets her do what she wants... As long as she obeys him or she'd end up like Zuko.

For Ozai, both his children are pawns. He uses Azula to abuse Zuko, which in turn is to get at Ursa. And honestly, Ursa was a bad mum and an abuse victim and not the villain are takes that can co-exist.

A lot of mums in primarily patriarchal cultures end up abusing their own kids while trying to protect them in an environment where they themselves hold little power.

Ursa and Hakoda can be compared in this.

Katara haters can look away: she isn't whiny. And even if she is, well, she takes responsibility when no one else does so I guess she deserves to complain if that's what it takes. Katara is extremely mature. When she was mad at Hakoda, she still had the critical thinking skills to point out that yes, she understands why he left. He had to! She doesn't blame him for that, it wasn't his fault that there was war going on—but it still hurt!

And what does Hakoda do? He hugs her and apologises. He doesn't defend himself, because he doesn't need to. She understands! She said she does and he doesn't insult her by making excuses. He acknowledges and validates her pain.

Unlike Katara, who grew up in a healthy family with parents and grandparents and a whole community—Azula was isolated and under the influence of Ozai. And she was so young! If you remember being that young, you'd remember thinking that parents are always right. You don't realise that parents make mistakes too—and while her emotional needs weren't being met by Ozai, she turned to Ursa—but Ursa was at her wits end trying to undo the damage of Ozai's abuse on Zuko.

If she had given attention to Azula, Zuko, who thought that Azula was perfect and already had father's approval would have gone off rails—and since she didn't... Azula went off the rails.

Which was exactly how Ozai would want it. I don't like the comics much but it made sense that Ozai would hold both the children as bargaining chips against Ursa. Ursa made her choice, or rather, the illusion of her choice and Azula had to pay for it: the real reason Zuko could turn over a new page while Azula couldn't was because from the very beginning, Zuko had his mum and uncle.

Azula had no one!

Like Hakoda had to go to war and leave his children behind, Ursa had to choose between Azula or Zuko; Ozai orchestrated it as such.

But while there were people to pick up Hakoda's slack, there was no one to guide Azula. Sokka and Katara raised each other and they had Gran Gran.

Zuko and Azula were constantly pitted against each other by a war-mongering father.

I don't like this unrealistic expectations that fandom has of a family where both the siblings not only love each other equally, they also process emotions similarly (see: the Sokka vs Katara debate on how they both react to trauma) and parents who love all the kids equally.

Katara and Sokka are normal and realistic in the way that they are both different people: they process grief differently. Katara takes up responsibly and grows up too fast, it takes a toll on her and she's vocally expressive. She turns her grief into anger. Meanwhile Sokka internalises it in a survivor's guilt kind of way.

There's also gender involved in the way both pair of siblings interact. It's more subtle for the fire siblings than the water sibling. Plus, Suki makes Sokka drink his respect women juice, please y'all don't call Sokka sexist. That was character development for him which was addressed. I could make another post for gender and A:TLA.

And they both love each other dearly and they're okay with the fact that one is daddy's boy and the other is momma's girl. It's okay.

In contrast Zuko yearns for his father's affection and Azula yearns for her mother's. And while Zuko feels inadequate, for Azula it's “behave or you'll end up like your brother.”

She also learns to derive a sick sort of pleasure from watching Zuko suffer—which is entirely her father's doing. Because in rare moments when she doesn't have anything to gain by getting Zuko into trouble...she actually kind of looks out for him. It's extremely rare and sprinkled here and there to show us the Azula that could have been.

And I don't think Zuko really realised that Azula was abused too—not until he lets go of his father. Until the final Agni Kai. What I love about it is that despite portraying Azula as Zuko's tormentor for 3 seasons (and she was his tormentor) they did not frame the Agni Kai as some epic good vs evil shit.

Because from Zuko's point of view Azula was perfect. He's out here vying for his father's affection while she gets it freely. She's so lucky!—until he lets go of his father and realises what a monster he was... And he also realises that father never really loved Azula either...

They didn't say as much in words. But the final Agni Kai is proof enough. Zuko doesn't rejoice bringing Azula down (technically Katara did it). At this point, I guess, he realises that Azula's a kid too. Even younger than him—that their father couldn't care less about either of them.

Okay. I really do think that Zuko suddenly becoming invested in Azula's redemption would make sense after the Agni Kai. I also read this Twitter thread by Aaron Ehasz where he says he had plans for Azula's redemption and it was fantastic.

So yeah. Without being overt, the water siblings and fire siblings are contrasted by each other. Which is why I don't like the comics trying to do this brother-sister thing where they put Sokka and Katara and Zuko and Azula in back-to-back panels like... Even if I'm a huge supporter of Azula-deserves-redemption I didn't like those panels in the comics.

P.S. don't pit Sokka and Katara against each other. You aren't Ozai. They're different people who process trauma and loss differently and hence, react differently.

Adios.

[stories4eve]

★ THE NEXT GENERATION OF HEROES, PARENTAL DYNAMICS!!★

( excuse me for any mischaracterzations of the beasts... I don't know their characters all that well yet!)

(★ @batshikns ... feels nessecary to tag you in this)

Pure Vanilla + his children.

★ Frozen yogurt, being his first child, already establishes a heavy attachment to each other. He absolutely loves his eldest. No matter how much he grows or how he changes, he will always be there to extend a hand to him and welcome him back into his open arms. Pure Vanilla, however, has concerns about his isolation. He tries to get him to make more friends, introduce him to other cookies, and what not. But he watches as they all misunderstand and leave Yogurt behind all alone. So, he picks him up, holds him tight in hopes that he gets the message that "I will always be here for you." But that isn't always something Frozen Yogurt remembers. When both his children do end up spiraling down, he can't help but still blame himself for not trying enough. Maybe if he had been there with Yogurt during that first revelation, this wouldn't have happened. He's not a perfect parent. No one is. There are times when he messes up, times when he has to look to both Hollyberry and Dark Cacao for help. But one thing will always remain: He will have himself ready for his children no matter what happens to them. He is always ready to lead them back on the path if they stray.

★ Cream Vanilla and him are close enough. She's his little angel. Beautiful little girl, whose smile is as bright as the sun. However, he seems to be too careful with her sometimes, and that can frustrate her. He's careful of what he says, but sometimes that little slip of the truth can hurt her by accident. It's not something that's huge, but over time, it can do something to Cream Vanilla. She knows she's not as great as her older brother, but can't understand why Pure Vanilla can't be honest to her about it.. I mean, it's what everyone thinks, right? But Pure Vanilla believes wholeheartedly that she is capable, just not in what Frozen Yougurt's able to achieve. Elsewhere, she will thrive, and he wants to tell her that, but the misunderstanding of his words is something that sticks to Cream Vanilla because because the mindset she's grown to have. Nontheless, he will love her no matter how much she grows to disdain him or curse him. He just wishes that she would wake up from the lies that she's built to protect herself and see that maybe she too has a chance at a fulfilling life.

Shadow Milk + his children

★ Shadow Milk never thought he'd ever be a father, but now here he stands. Despite all the knowledge he's collected over the years, nothing would have ever prepared him for fatherhood to this extent. He, truthfully, tries his best with Frozen Yogurt. Tries to teach him how to hone his magic, and they do form a relationship. One that's genuine, however, with flaws. Shadow Milk is more pushy with him to certain extents, too weary of him ending up like him someday. And when he finally does, Shadow Milk can't help but wonder - was it his insistence that he get out and really show out, caused this? After all, his son can only take so much, he wasn't born to be alone. With raising him, Shadow Milk takes a little bit of a different approach. With Vanillas' all-too-caring nature, someone has to be there to also be a little firmer. That doesn't change the fact that he loves his son. And when the end of his manic episode comes, when push comes to shove, and all has been said.. Like his husband, he will be ready to welcome him back. Albeit, he'll be a little more scolding, ruffling his hair and shaking his head, telling him to never attempt something like that again, all in good nature, though! He was definitely an emotional parent the very least. Part of him kept the joker side of himself, so trust me when I say that Frozen is tired of the badly timed dad jokes. He knows that he says them to spite him, and that's what he hates. They do love each other though.

★ Cream Vanilla? Oh they were the closest with each other! When she was younger, he'd dress up with her, make puppet shows, and other things for her to enjoy. She truly was his little princess. He sees a lot of Candy Apple in her, and that sort of endears him a little, so willing to learn and understand everything around her. However, he can't help but notice as she got older, she tried to avoid him. Was it something he said or did? Was it because he managed to call her out on every lie she told..? I mean, being his daughter, and him being the master of lies, it wasn't hard to tell-- atleast to himself-- when she was lying. What did she want to lie about anyway? Maybe it was how she truly felt, abandoned.. Not enough, never enough for everyone else? He hates the thought of her self-loathing. Does she even know how much he adores her? How much will he give up for her and her brother? Albeit, he is a little blind to her jealousy towards her older brother, and doesn't understand her reasonings then. When she turns away from them for good, he can't help but feel conflicted. He learns of how she feels truthfully, how she lied just like him to protect herself and others from the world that they live in. He then finds that he understands her, and he will use that understanding to drag her back into the light, just as his other half did with himself.

Golden Cheese + Her children

★ Golden Cheese adores her first son dearly. Her children are her dearest treasures through it all! Goldie is a very involved mother within her child's life. Always checking in, always making sure Pepperjack has enough of everything. She even offered to train him in his combat, seeing as he uses a spear too! She teaches him to hold his head up high, never let the world make you kneel, instead make the world kneel to you. However, she can't help but sense the slight itch of doubt he has. He can't act as tall as he does around her, for she will see it. Golden Cheese makes it her goal to make him fully believe that he is capable of taking on her throne. Leading his people as he should, but sometimes, they can and will argue about it. Pepperjack is too careful. He needs to be bolder. Being too safe will only get so far. He needs to find a balance between the two as she has. Because they're both such large personalities, there's bound to be clashes in between and some distance. In the end, they resolve it through Spice having to convince her to try again with him. After all, that's what she did with Spice. Why not lend a hand to their son?

★ Her and Saffron have a good bond. Not nearly as close as she is with Pepperjack, as Saffron is most definitely more attached to Spice. That does not change that they have a loving relationship, however. She finds his determination to be admirable and his spirit? Just as bright as hers, maybe even more! She's proud of him in a way. However, with his stubborn mindset, destructive tendencies- even if they are unintentional - she is a little worried about his future. However, Golden Cheese will let time work its magic, as it has with her and everything else, and let the lessons he's learned change him for the better. She knows that with enough pushing, she'll get him on the right track. It's just a matter of getting him to listen... Quite honestly, Golden Cheese herself is still new to this whole parenting thing in the end and is trying to learn and figure out this new chapter of her life. As perfect as she tries to be, parenting can be challenging.

★ Kofta is her little mini me, her darling little princess that she spoils to no end. She'll dress her up in the finest of clothing, gift her everything she seems to ask for. Of course, there's a limit, Golden Cheese needs to set boundaries somehow. Kofta is a mommy's girl through and through. They go shopping for things together, they do spa days together - everything! There are points of tension between the two, just your average bickering between child and parent; you know, letting the girl take her own steps, let her be more independent. And sure, Golden Cheese understands that her children will leave the nest one day, but she can't help but want them to stay, at least Kofta to. Pepperjack was independent enough and matured faster than she expected. So it has just been her and Kofta for a while because Saffron will mature as well. Kofta, of course, understands her mothers longing for her children, but does remind her that she will have their father too. Eventually, Golden Cheese will let her go, maybe after arugement or two. Only to find that they will still be her babies, no matter how much they grow. Her precious little jewels through and through.

Burning Spice + his children

★ Spice was even more surprised and even more unprepared to be a father than Shadow Milk was. He was already a little uneasy around children, fearing that he'd unintentionally hurt such fragile things. When Pepperjack was first born, he was oh SO careful holding him, feeding him and what not. He was terrified of ever hurting something he finally created. Eventually, the scare goes away, and he adjusts to have little Pepperjack around. He often teaches him the history of the world around him, how the cycle of change begins and ends, how he has a very large responsibility on his back of upholding it when he's old enough. He tries his best to guide Pepperjack in the way Burning Spice thinks he should have gone before corruption. Teaching him that destruction is necessary for new roots to grow in place. But still, there is that overlooking fear he has that he will fail his children, and in turn, his wife too. Pepperjack and him don't argue a lot about much, but when they do, it does get messy. He kind of has to knock sense into him to try and reconnect with his mother during points of distance, but it's just for his sake in the end. Very much huge papa bear vibes from him <3

★ Spice and Golden Saffron are tight-knit. He teaches the boy how to fight and use an axe or other close ranged weapons! He worries the most about his future, though. Because he recognizes his thinking process, he recognizes that little part of himself in him. So he will sit him down, warn him and tell him that all that he had worked for, all that he has done to better himself would have been for nothing if Golden Saffron looses himself to destruction. He is a storyteller at heart and takes Saffron through the historic ruins of his temples and what not to bond with him. For the most part, growing up, they had a good relationship. Spice would help Saffron with those powers of his.. But the older Saffron got, the more pressure was applied on him, and that seemed to sort of cause a little rift in the relationship they have. Small arugements over outbursts turned into larger disagreements. Finally, everything comes out, and they resolve it through an intense spar. This time, Golden Cheese is the one to smack them both into sense to get along. They eventually reconnect and find peace.

★ Kofta is his pride and joy.. No, literally, he is doting on her from day one. From allowing her to dress him up in pink, huge bows, and telling her exaggerated stories about him and her mother.. Those are some of the better memories they have together. Just enjoying each other's company, Kofta looks up to her father. She thinks he's strong, one of the strongest people she will ever have the pleasure of meeting. That doesn't really change the older she gets. Sure, they turn their hangouts into more mature things-- like sparring or running errands together. However, they do tend to argue over Koftas own ever expanding ego and how she might need to tone it down a little. Other than that, it's a loving relationship between them, probably the one child Spice fights with the least, much to Golden Cheeses pleasure. Overall, she trusts him and looks to him for help, too. She enjoys messing with him as well, as much as she loves him. I mean, sure that gets her chased around, but it's all in good, loving nature between her and her papa <33

White Lily + Her child (and reaction to her untimely death)

★ Nodding Lily was White Lily's little miracle, her blessing from above. She adores her baby girl and finds their similarities in physical appearance, in almost everything so fascinating. She's always wanted to be a mother, wanting to know how it felt like to raise a cookie from the start. So she tries her best to be mentally prepared for her, to be there when she needs it. She absolutely encourages her creativity, and Nodding Lily finds her mothers support to be her stone when creating. They don't argue at all. Rather, they will sit and talk it out because they aren't the type to aruge. Whatever issues they have, Lily and her can resolve through peaceful conversation.. To a degree. White Lily isn't a perfect mom, but she sure is trying her hardest.. As for how she takes Nodding Lily's death? Oh, she's grieving, mourning her every hour of the day. There's a sort of bitterness that grows within her towards the others. How come their child wasn't subjected to Nodding Lily's own self-sacrificing power.. Was it her? Was it her fault that she let her child be pushed to the edge? She only now has her partner and can be seen holding onto them tighter ever since their child died. She had her whole life ahead of her, and now this? Was this how it felt like to loose too..? Maybe she understands the bitterness that Golden Cheese holds against her better now that she's experienced loss of her own. White Lily will leave her flowers every time, hoping that her baby, from wherever she's watching, will understand that she's still looking out for her.

Silent Salt + their child (and their reaction to her untimely death)

★Silent Salt.. How should I put it? Was it somewhat prepared? I mean, they understood this is what White Lily wanted the most, and who are they to deny her of anything? Come to find, they absolutely adore her too. She teaches them how to be more open-minded, stop oppresing certain parts about themselves, and teaches them how to be creative. In return, they teach her how to fight, use her powers, and try to guide her through a path of unity and solidarity instead of the crushing path of oppression. Often, they would be found walking together, painting or doing other things. They have this special spot near the old silver tree, where her and them have planted three lilies. One large purple one, the other a medium-sized white lily, and the last a small magenta Nodding Lily in the middle. Its a reminder that the three of them are a family forever. With the lessons she has taught them, they instill in her that her biggest source of support are the people that she holds close to her heart, and she reminds her to always look to them for everything, including themselves. They, too, don't argue, but they take concern to her, wearing herself out by being too much of a giver to everyone else. Remind her that she still is someone and a daughter to them besides being everyone's doormat. But.. to their utter, utter dismay, they still lost her. Failed her. Let her die, especially when it was in front of them and Lily. They couldn't save her from it, from the slow and painful wilting she took to her demise. They couldn't stop it. Her death was traumatic to her parents. Silent Salt had a hard time coping. They didn't know what to do or how to even come to terms with it. They just held onto White Lily even tighter, trying to keep her close, as close as they could so that they didn't lose her too. They sit in silence at her grave, at that special place they had together. Their silence speaks volumes, though. The wind howls, and it seems to convey the agony they feel. They light candles in her honor and even lay their helmet beside her grave as a reminder that she isn't alone.. even in the afterlife. They will carry her legacy within them, but that doesn't change the fact that she is gone.

Dark Cacao + his daughter

★ Choco Oat and him have such a complex relationship. He sees a lot of him within her, but also not. He understands the need she has to keep her kingdom and her people safe, but wants her to understand so desperately that she needs to stop and take it easy sometimes. But she is stubborn and unreltning, and he is too. That causes frustration that boils down into a huge argument. They also tend to bicker about smaller thing.. Choco Oat never really found it in herself to truly forgive her father for what he's done to Dark Choco. There's that, too. But she knows that he's trying. There are sweet moments between them where she'll climb onto his back as he sits.. filling out documents and whatnot. He'll braid her hair for her or style it when she can. They are still loving, and she has a somewhat better childhood than Choco had. Because he has learned from his past mistakes. He's as patient as he can be with her in the end, but sometimes it gets frustrating to talk to such a perfectionist. He does not understand why she must overthink every minute detail until he steps back and realizes he, too, in a way, was like that. But he cannot voice his sympathy for her without her retalating.. Insiting that she was fine and could handle it on her own. When her powers first came in, he was terrified that she would misuse them and end up like Dark Choco. So, he would encourage her to put its use to a minimum and try her best to repress it. Choco Oat somewhat understands, but doesn't as well.. Part of her wants to be free to use it, and feels slight bitterness about her father's response to it, the other part of her undersands that her and Dark Cacao share a common goal of wanting to protect the kingdom.. And that includes protecting them from her own power, too. But Mystic Flour takes notice of this, and rest assured she and Dark Choco will not tolerate this distance between them. After a long and angsty argument, they finally are honest and open-minded with each other, embracing one another as father and daughter do.. and with the help of Mystic Flour and his son, they build a better bond and learn to be there for each other when it was needed.

Mystic Flour + her daughter.

★ Choco oat and her are closer than she is with Cacao. Mystic Flour understands her baby girl and was actually the most prepared one to have a child as Cloud Haetae is not far from one. Though she has her own fears, she knows that under the right guidance, Choco Oat will turn out just fine. They spend some quality time together, weaving shrouds, tapestrys that tell stories. She often weaves silken robes for her daughter, and most of the clothes Choco Oat wears is from her mother. Because Mystic Flour seems to be the only one who understands her sense of style and comfort at the same time. Mystic Flour and her often pray and meditate together, too. She teaches her how to be a good tender to the pagoda and introduces her to Go and whatnot. As for points of tension, mainly it is Choco Oats' ever lasting perusit perfection for herself. Mystic Flour thinks it is.. well, outlandish at times, but she is not one to outright harshly judge her daughter. She will sit her down and talk to her sternly instead about reconnecting with her father and taking a break once in a while. It's only really up to her if she wants to listen now or later, but Mystic will take a page out of her husbands book and will be patient and unreltning with her. As for how she handles Choco Oats powers, unlike Dark Cacao, she tries and encourages her to use them freely in a safe area. Be in tune with them, channel them so that she too can use it for the greater good. Though Cacao is not fond of the idea at first, Mystic convinces him later on after that argument, and soon enough, Choco Oat will learn how to accept even the ugliest parts of herself. For chosing to be ignorant will only lead her down a path of Apathy.

Hollyberry + her twin children

★ Candied Berry and her? Absolute partners in the more daring activities! Hah, there would even be periods where her and Holly would run off together for a bit, go on a hunting trip for a week or two, and come back with spoils to share! Needless to say, they are very close. Hollyberry has finally found an equal with her for her passion, her bravery, her hope is so inspiring. Ever since Candied was a little girl, she would get herself into dangerous situations most of the time, and yes, that would concern Hollyberry. There are points where Holly thinks she's a little too bold, and that cause tension between them, they either spar it out or have a messy talk about it.. Candied Berry also tends to sort of nag her on taking so much Berry juice in daily.. She loves her mama, but too much is too much sometimes, and Candied wants her to know that! Of course, Holly stops when her children ask her. She's not the type to prioritize her juice over her kids, of course. Eventually, through her help, Holly will cut back on that addiction of hers.. But it's going to take a while between the both of them to help each other improve and be better. Hollyberry is willing to be there for her every step of the way, and she can only hope that Candied finds bravery within herself to face her own inner challenges just as she has faced her own long ago.

★ Sugared Berry reminds her of Royalberry in a sense. She finds his calmness to be equally grounding as her wife's own and finds that he and Eternal Sugar are voices of reasons to her and Candied. However, Sugared Berry is more insistent that his mother should take on healthier eating habits, take better care of herself, and what not. He often feels concern for her, and Hollyberry appreciates that. She too also finds that his burn out days can be rough on him too, and reminds him as well that he is still a cookie as well and needs his own rest periods. They don't find much to argue about, except for days where they just can not understand each other eye to eye.. However, Hollyberry is a good listener and will listen to her sons cries and calls, whatever their current state of tensions are. Also, it is worth noting that Hollyberry is one of Sugared Berry's biggest supporters musical career wise, she's always there clapping the loudest during his performances, and will encourage him to be passionate about it too! No matter how discouraged he may get. She will always be there to remind him to keep moving on and to stay passionate for the things he loves. Because she has been a mother before, and having new children doesn't mean she loses the lessons she learned with her first child.

Eternal Sugar + her twin children

★ One of the ones who are less prepared for kids.. Twins at that. She wasn't expecting two kids, but she would love them both deatly anyway. Candied Berry is much like her wife in a lot of aspects, passionate, brave, bold, and daring. For that, Eternal Sugar feels sort of endearment towards her. But she doesn't know where to start with teaching them anything, what to say - how to lead them to a life of happiness. She often looks to her wife for advice and tries her best to channel it, too. However, for Candied, she finds it harder to connect with her because of her nature being so different from Eternal Sugar's own. She still loves her, don't get me wrong, but there's a clear distance between her and Sugar sometimes that they're trying desperately to overcome, but it seems near impossible at times. Eternal Sugar can't quite wrap her head around the activities that Candied deems fun and was worried out of her mind when younger Candied got herself into situations where... It was near life-threatening. The scoldings she gave were a little firm and assertive, but she only wanted to protect her baby. However, now that that rambunctious child has grown into an even more off the walls teenager, she just sighs and shakes her head... Whatever is Eternal Sugar going to do with her?

★ Sugared Berry and her are extremely close, though. She finds his love for the harp, the lyre, instruments in general to be a lot like her passion for them too! She teaches him how to play the lyre and even the harp, and he has her to thank for his great skills. They definitely sit down and relax together when the day calls for it, and she even gives him little bracelets and necklaces she happens to have found from her old status as a virtue. However, they do aruge a little about his tendency to just give up. She can not allow him to go down the same path of sloth as she once did, and he does not understand what is so bad about slacking off from time to time. It's not as major as most of the other kids' issues.. but it does worry Eternal Sugar a lot, especially because she has never been a parent before and does not know what to expect of this. Do not fret, Hollyberry will help her, ease her worries, and allow her to find a way to communicate her concerns to her children in another way besides incessant nagging. Other than that, Eternal is a caring mother and is good at soothing and comforting her children to a degree at the very end.. Even if she isn't the most educated on the topic of parenting.

[followsfrankiep]

Don't Worry About Her (Eddie Brock x Reader)

Summary: They always say, when a guy tells you not to worry about his girl best friend, you probably should. Izzy's wild and free-spirited nature has always contrasted with her best friend Eddie's quest for stability. Now that Eddie is engaged, he never expected Izzy to complicate things for both of them.

Previous chapter

TW: Smut, Explicit Words, Cheating, Minors DNI.

Word count: 4.2k

A/N: You guys still there? This is a rather unfun chapter, but I hope you enjoy it anyhow! It's all fun and games until feelings get in the way. Wink wink. Let me know what you guys think!

Part 4 - Expiration Date

His dedication to exposing the truth in the real world has lead Eddie at this point of his career. A proud producer and star of The Eddie Brock Report, he was not afraid to shed a light even if its uncomfortable.

We owe the people the truth, he said.

It's what the world deserves, he said.

He was cashing in checks left and right, with the people obsessed with his honesty and unfiltered take on societal issues. Eddie had become a reliable and courageous source of information. The network adored him, the producers praised him, and his fanbase continued to grow. Life's too good for him and all he needed was there at arms length.

The perks of being well-compensated meant that Eddie now had the freedom and financial ability to take care of everything he needed. Each achievement, every luxury he now enjoyed, was a product of his relentless hard work and dedication. This, however, gave him little to no excuse to defer the upcoming wedding preparations—a fact that filled Anne with excitement. She dreamt of walking down the aisle as a radiant bride, ready to marry the man she believed to be her soulmate. To an outsider, they seemed like the perfect couple. And to be fair, Anne thought so too.

Eddie was still a man, he has needs. He was still committed to his fiancé and they have sex as much as any other couple who lives under the same roof. It was fine, just, you know... okay. That's what he essentially wanted: stable and constant. But why does it feel so empty for him?

Did his wildcard of a friend mess up his head? She most certainly did.

"I'm Eddie Brock, and this is the Brock Report."

His show aired at 9 o'clock at night PST. No matter where Izzy was around the world, she always set an alarm to watch her best friend's show. Even from afar, she was his most loyal viewer. You could bet that even if the time came when everyone else was sick of seeing him on their screens, there'd still be that one loyal viewer: her.

Izzy read through the comments under the streaming video, smiling at the fangirls swooning over him. But one particular comment caught her eye: a fan asked if he was single, followed by several answers pointing out the ring on his finger. He had already pledged himself to another woman. The dismay wasn't just for the fans; it was hers as well.

Currently in Rome, her mom and dad back in San Francisco FaceTimed her as early as 7 o'clock in the morning CET, just to let her know that Eddie had dropped by to personally hand them their save-the-date card and asked if they could act as his parents at the wedding. Of course, they said yes. Her mom, in particular, was joyously crying to receive such role from Eddie, calling him her 'son'.

It might have been too early, and all she had was coffee, but Izzy felt her stomach churn as the information sank in. The last time she was with Eddie, there hadn't been a definitive date yet. In the back of her mind, she had this delusion that the wedding wouldn't push through. But now, in just a few months, there would be a Mrs. Brock, and it wouldn't be her.

A few more months would pass like a breeze, and before she knew it, he would be a tied-up man.

No more playmate for Izzy.

She knew what she was doing when she appeared at their engagement party; she knew what she was doing when she rekindled their intimacy; she knew he was a committed man and would soon be married. They had had this kind of relationship for years now, and she had been the one to tell him it was okay—okay for him to find the right woman to spend the rest of his life with.

So why was she feeling suddenly overwhelmed now? Was it another rush for her? Another challenge to take up with the deadline closing in? Or was she simply hurt?

Her life never revolved around one person. It was hers to hold, hers to stir, and hers to fuck up. She had been happy to keep it that way.

Until now.

Only two months into her stay in Rome, she felt her chest tighten by the news. She was still immensely happy for him, he deserves to have someone who loves him for who he is. It was probably time. She thought it was time to move forward, and whatever it is she's feeling will just go away.

Maybe give some guys their chance.

-

Eddie was in the middle of an interview with Carlton Drake, a prominent figure known for his ambitious projects. Drake was articulate and confident, his answers polished and precise. However, there is something about Drake's aura, the way he carried himself, and the secrecy surrounding his work set off alarm bells in Eddie's mind.

Suddenly, Drake's phone buzzed, and he glanced at the screen. His expression shifted, and without any warning, he abruptly halted the interview, curtly saying: "I need to take this."

He watched as Drake stood up and stepped away, completely absorbed by the unexpected text. It's just a freaking text. Frustration welled up inside Eddie. He didn't want to be there in the first place and had made sure his boss knew about his uneasy feelings towards this guy. The network didn't give him much choice. If there was a great opportunity to cover a story, they should be the first news outlet to cover it, hushing any of his negative concerns. Thus, here he was, in the Life Foundation building, the same client his fiancée had been occupied with for months.

Eddie wondered why Drake was so quick to halt the interview for a simple phone buzz. Was it that important? He knew he had to stay focused, despite the disruption. Drake soon returned, flashing an apologetic smile.

"Sorry about that, Eddie. Just a quick text from someone special."

Eddie forced a smile, trying to circle back to the interview. "No problem. So, as I was saying—"

"You have no idea. This person rarely replies, so it's a big deal." Drake cut him off, looking clearly smitten.

"Sure, it's fine. I understand," Eddie said, sarcastically.

Drake's phone buzzed again, and he hurriedly read the message, smiling like a fool. Eddie's annoyance grew. How could someone be so head over heels for a person who barely replied? Drake looked up, almost catching Eddie's annoyed expression, which he quickly masked with a smile.

"Met this incredible woman about a week ago in Rome," Drake said, almost dreamily. "And she also lives here in San Francisco."

"Yeah? What's her name?" Eddie faked interest to be polite.

"Isobel Knight."

His pen slipped from his fingers and clattered to the ground.

Eddie's mind raced as he tried to process what he had just heard. Isobel Knight? Izzy? The same Izzy who rarely responds to him as well? Yeah. Sounds about right.

Carlton Drake didn't seem to notice Eddie's shock and continued talking about the wonders of the woman he met. Taking a deep breath, he gathered himself. "Izzy?" he asked, his voice slightly unsteady.

"You know her?"

"Yeah, she's... a good friend."

Drake looked momentarily taken aback, then broke into a wide grin. Eddie, on the other hand, was forcing himself to smile and not to lose his shit at the moment. Seriously? Izzy? Of all people in San Francisco, it had to be her.

Eddie bent down to pick up his pen, buying himself a moment to gather his thoughts. When he straightened up, he knew he had to maintain his composure, struggling to do so.

"I mean, she's kinda hard to read but I'm inviting her to a date."

Okay, he wasn't done. Eddie thought.

His irritation grew. How could Drake be so infatuated with someone who barely responded? And more importantly, how could Izzy, of all people, be involved with someone like Drake? He plastered on another forced smile. "I'm sure she'll come around."

Whenever Drake's phone buzzed, and he eagerly checked the message, his face lighting up with a smile. Eddie's patience wore thin. This was supposed to be a professional interview, and yet here he was, stuck listening to Drake gush about Izzy. He felt like he was witnessing a rom-com gone horribly wrong. He could practically see the headline now: "Billionaire CEO Swoons Over Journalist’s Best Friend (and Secret Hookup)." Just the thought of typing those words made Eddie want to roll his eyes hard enough to dislodge them.

Eddie forced himself to stay professional, though it took every ounce of effort. Everytime this man would beam at the sight of his phone, he just wants to jab his smile out of his face. If only Drake knew the truth—or maybe not. In that moment, he was honestly tempted to let him know. His emotion was slowly clouding his judgement. It wasn't exactly Eddie's finest moment, being tangled in this awkward love triangle... or square?

The interview wrapped up and Eddie got out of there as quick as his patience running out, but Drake, ran up to catch him.

"Hey, since you know Izzy so well, maybe you could help me out," he said, his tone now more relaxed and informal. "I'm trying to get to know her better, and it would be great if you could give me some advice? Man to man."

The nerve of this guy.

"Sure, I guess."

"Awesome! Maybe you can nudge her into agreeing to go on a date with me while she's around."

Eddie raised an eyebrow, slightly annoyed by the fact that she didn't inform him, again. "She's around? Here? In San Francisco?"

"Yeah, she just texted me." Drake answered, fully unaware of the consequences that will happen.

It made Eddie think. He initially wanted to say 'fuck off', but he knew he couldn't just be emotionally unprofessional about this. He plans to give his bestfriend an earful as well.

"Alright, I'll let her know."

He was unsure how to feel. He didn't like Drake, and the idea of playing his wingman for his best friend didn't sit well with him. The thought of another guy making a move on Izzy irked him. But for the sake of his work, he just agreed. He couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in his gut.

He tried to convince himself that he was doing this for professional reasons, but deep down, he knew it was more than that.

Izzy was not initially interested in Carlton Drake when they first met. Her friend had handed him her number after she’d said no more times than she could count. She knew who Carlton was—everyone in San Francisco did. The billionaire with the polished smile, living the kind of life that seemed almost unreal. And yet, somehow, they’d crossed paths far from home, here in Rome, of all places.

Carlton’s persistence was something else entirely. He’d been texting, calling, dropping hints about how incredible a date with him would be. At first, it was more annoying than anything. She’d come close to blocking him a few times, but then the news hit: Eddie’s wedding was just a few months away. The finality of it stung more than she cared to admit. So when Carlton asked her out on a date again, she figured, why not? Maybe this was exactly the kind of distraction she needed.

And now here she was, back at her parent's house, dressed in sweatpants and sweater while unpacking her luggage and belongings. She was planning to settle back here for a while, thinking of how she'd spend her time here. Her phone buzzed again on her bed, she did not bother checking it right away, assuming it was Drake, probably bugging her for a final yes or no answer to that date. It wasn’t that there was anything particularly wrong with him. In fact, he was too perfect. Carlton Drake was what people would call a walking green flag—successful, charming, generous. And yet, here she was, feeling something was holding her back.

Talk about being allergic to a green flag.

Izzy had no idea her mom had let someone in downstairs at the front door, cheerfully remarking that they’d arrived at just the right moment, since she was upstairs unpacking in her room. Not long after, there was knock on her bedroom door, and without a second thought, she unlocked it and turned back to face her half-opened suitcase. She assumed it was just her parents checking in on her, not even glancing up as the soft creak of the door opening.

“Wow. Sweat pants.” his voice cut through the room.

Izzy turned sharply, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of him. Eddie. He stood there, hands in his pockets, his expression caught somewhere between amusement and something heavier. She blinked, momentarily thrown off by his sudden appearance. “Eddie,” she gasped. “What are you doing here?”

"Word on the street is, my best friend's back in town. In case you are wondering, Carlton Drake told me."

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me,” he said, his voice low but steady. “Carlton Drake. Had to hear it from him during an interview. Apparently, you guys are sort of a thing now? You didn’t think that was worth mentioning?”

“I didn’t realize I needed to ask for your permission now.”

"He’s bad news, Izzy. The guy’s got a huge ego. I’m just thinking about what’s best for you since we’re—” He stopped himself abruptly, not knowing which word to use next, as his eyes met hers. She can't believe he just came here to tell her that.

“Since we’re what, Eddie? Buddies? Fuck buddies? Is that what you want to say? Do you want me to keep your bed warm while you send out your save-the-date cards with Anne?”

Her words hit him like a slap, and his hands trembled slightly as he gestured for her to lower her voice. “You’re upset about the card,” he said, his voice quieter now but no less intense. “Of course, you’re upset about the fucking card.”

“You’re damn right I’m upset about the card. But don’t you dare act like this to me seeing Carlton where you know I did not react like this to Anne.” she huffed.

She did not expected her emotions to overtake her like that. Eddie didn’t respond to what she had said—not with words, at least. He sat on the edge of her bed, his hands reached out to her, brushing lightly against her waist before guiding her closer. As she hesitated for a brief moment, his gentle tug encouraged her to settle on his lap. His arms wrapped around her, firm but tender, one hand resting against the small of her back while the other subtly adjusted her posture to fit snugly against him.

“Izzy, you’re the one who told me it was okay,” he murmured. “You told me to find someone else."

He was right. She did say that.

"I know. I know I did..." she said with defeat. "I'm sorry, forget about what I said." she huffed in frustration of being unable to come back from her emotional outburst. "I'm probably just hormonal or whatever."

But this wasn’t like her. Izzy never let her emotions slip—not like this. Eddie knew it better than anyone. She was the type to brush off the heavy stuff with a biting remark, to laugh in the face of anything too raw and walk away unscathed. Watching everyone else fall apart was one thing, but Izzy? She didn’t break. She didn’t let anyone see the cracks.

Eddie let out a frustrated sigh, his hand raking through his hair as he tried to piece this together. This wasn’t them. They were supposed to be the ones who could talk about anything, who could laugh off the awkwardness, who always found a way back to easy. But this—this felt different. And he knew her, all the ways she deflected and humor was her armor, and yet here she was, vulnerable, apologetic, and it unsettled him in ways he couldn’t explain. It wasn’t just unlike her—it was unlike them.

For the first time, he saw it—his own feelings mirrored back at him in her eyes. The same quiet ache as if she’d been holding onto the very things he thought he carried alone.

“Iz."

“What?” She glanced at him, her brow arching slightly.

Before she could say anything else, Eddie’s lips crashed against hers, and for a moment, the awkward tension between them faded. It was raw, filled with anger, longing, and all the words they’d left unsaid. Izzy responded just as fiercely, her hands gripping his shirt, pulling him closer. In one fluid motion, Eddie lifted her, and she instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist. He carried her to place her properly on her bed, their lips never breaking contact, and gently laid her down as their kiss slowed, softened, but still continued. His other arm reached out to her bedside drawer, locating their usual stash of condoms without looking, and tossing it beside her. Her hands were undoing his belt and pants, with Eddie kicking it on the floor, she quickly removed hers as well.

As the moments progressed even further, they didn't talk much, no teasing, no dirty talks. Their eyes locked—angry, vulnerable, searching. Her legs are wrapped around his hips with his hands tightly gripping on her sides, while he's pounding on her roughly. He fucked her in a manner reminiscent of their first night together, one where Eddie was tipped off by his jealousy. Izzy tilted her head back against the pillow, her eyes half-closed, feeling just how good her best friend was at fucking her and hitting her spot repeatedly. Her left hand clutched his muscular arm, supporting herself in staying in place while her right hand slipped to the back of his head, her thumb rubbing his nape sensually as if saying, "don't fucking stop."

Her room was filled with just the sound of skin slapping, concealed moans, heavy breathing, and bed creaking. Izzy arched her back when she felt a knot in her stomach forming. Her shifted position gave Eddie better access and sensation, feeling his cock about to burst as he continued his rhythm. They have been doing this so many times, yet again and again, it feels like they're fucking like it was their last day on earth. It feels so damn good and exhilirating. Soon after, they both climaxed, making a mess of their combined juices in her sheets. Eddie slowly withdrew his cock out of her, removed the used condom, tossed it in the nearby trash, and pulled her closer to him in a tight embrace.

“Fucking hell, Eddie... What's gotten into you?” she whispered breathless, the look in her eyes softer.

“That,” he panted, “was me reminding you that no one could fuck you as well as I could.” he murmured in between his breaths with a smug sneer on his lips.

Izzy can't help but to snort and laugh. Come on, can you stay angry at this guy after what he just said and done? He was Eddie for fuck's sake.

“You’re such an idiot, Brock."

The guilt always came rushing in after but this time, something else was stronger, something heavier. It wasn’t often they found themselves in this kind of stillness—the silence between them felt louder than ever. They positioned themselves sitting up her bed and resting their backs on the headboard. Usually, Izzy would be the one to break the tension, to tease him out of his spiraling thoughts or reassure him when the guilt started to creep in. She’d laugh, brush it off, make it seem like it was nothing at all. But tonight, she was quiet too. Her gaze was distant, her fingers absently tracing patterns on the sheets as she sank deeper into her own thoughts.

Eddie glanced at her, his chest tightening at the sight of her so uncharacteristically still. He wanted to say something, to reach out, but the words caught in his throat. All they could hear was the faint ticking of the clock on her nightstand. They just sat there, side by side, drowning in the weight of their own feelings, knowing that whatever this was—whatever they were—was slipping further out of their grasp as it continued. And yet, neither of them could bring themselves to put a stop to it. Not yet.

“You know,” Izzy began, her voice calm but deliberate, “when my mom FaceTimed me about the save-the-date cards, I didn’t know how to react.”

Eddie turned his head, his gaze settling on her. “What do you mean?”

She shrugged, her lips curving into a faint smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “It’s not like I didn’t know this was coming. You’ve been engaged for months now. But hearing her talk about how proud they were of you, how you handed out those cards yourself... it made everything feel real. Like the clock on us just started ticking.”

Eddie sat up slightly, leaning on one elbow as he searched her face. “Izzy...”

“I’m not sad nor mad,” she interrupted, shaking her head, still not looking at him. “I’m happy for you. You’re doing what you’re supposed to do—what you deserve. Stability, someone who loves you, someone who’s there no matter what. But it made me realize... everything we have, it has an expiration date now.”

The quiet between them wasn’t awkward—it never was—but it weighed heavy with her words. Izzy couldn’t bring herself to meet his blue eyes, knowing they’d break through the fragile calm exterior she was clinging to. She’d always said they’d stay friends after he got married, even without the hookups, as if it was that simple. But now, with the save-the-date cards marking the countdown, a sharp realization stirred inside her—an ache she hadn’t let herself feel until now. Could she really keep her promise? Or had their deadline made her question everything she thought she could handle?

It seemed like he was starting to see through her facade as well.

Eddie sat up fully, his brow furrowed as he leaned closer, his hand brushing against hers. “I hate that you feel that way.”

“It’s not just a feeling,” she said gently, her fingers curling around his. “It’s reality. And it’s okay. I knew this was temporary from the start. But it’s why I decided to stay for a while.”

“Wait, you’re staying?” he asked, his brow furrowed, a flicker of disbelief crossing his face. “Like, indefinitely?”

She nodded, her lips curving into a faint smile. Izzy turned slightly, her eyes meeting his, and for once, she didn’t have the energy to tease. “Yeah. No disappearing acts this time. Might as well make the most of it, right? While you’re not tied up yet.”

It felt like a hole she’d dug for herself, one shovelful at a time. Each choice, every stolen moment, deepened the pit, and now, she was the only one sinking—alone.

Eddie exhaled, his shoulders sagging as he seemed to process her words. “You mean it?”

“Yeah” she said, her tone steady but soft. “I figured you deserved a break from wondering if I’d ever come back.”

Finally.

His expression shifted, the teasing glint in his eyes giving way to something deeper. Without another word, Eddie pulled her close facing her back, his arms wrapping around her waist as he pressed his forehead to her shoulder. His lips followed, brushing soft kisses along her skin, each one slower than the last, like he was trying to imprint the moment. She exhaled softly, her fingers brushing over his tattoed forearm.

She said she’d stay—for him. After all the waiting, the wondering if she ever would, she was finally here. But the reality cut deep. She stayed now, when his future was tied to someone else. It felt like a cruel gift, one he couldn’t refuse.

It was still Izzy.

“I missed you,” he admitted, his voice low but unsteady. “I hate when you’re gone.”

Izzy’s breath hitched, but she didn’t let it show. Instead, she tilted her head, her fingers slipping through his hair in a soothing rhythm. “I know,” she murmured. “Consider this your lucky day, Brock.” she said with a hint of forced teasing in her voice.

He let out a quiet laugh, though it was tinged with something deeper—gratitude, maybe, or the realization that their time together always felt limited. His lips returned to her shoulder, trailing more soft, lingering kisses, his hands smoothing over her waist with a tenderness that made her heart ache. Eddie stilled for a moment, his forehead pressing against her shoulder.

Eddie wanted to tell her he’d been waiting for her—always had been, in ways he couldn’t explain. But the words were already impossible to say. Instead, he pulled her closer, his arms tightening around her. Izzy shifted in his arms, her lips placing a gentle kiss on his temple. They stayed like that for a while, wrapped in each other’s warmth, the reality outside her bedroom did not matter. Not now.

It seemed like everything was fine, like they hadn’t just had a moment earlier that exposed Izzy's feelings. He was glad to know she's going to stick around for a while. As always, whenever she would come back from her trips, one thing she would not forget is to get Eddie something. This time, it was her.

-

Next part

[suna-cerely-yours]

Say you love me (Losing all my innocence in the backseat) ft Tobio Kageyama

Synopsis: What should you do when you're being forced into marriage?

a. Seek ravishment from the most notorious rake

b. Get ravished by a stranger who you thought was the most notorious rake

c. Get married anyway d. All of the above

warnings: fem!reader, afab reader, 18+, mdni, themes of misogyny, historical inaccuracy, dubcon (not really but it's a case of mistaken identity), public sex, dry humping, making out, reader is called good girl.

a/n: think of it as a Bridgerton au. not historically accurate at all, and i might have gone overboard with the dialogue. i also use the phrase 'notorious rake' too much, but there's so much fun to be had in this universe

♛

"She's turning four and twenty next month! She debuted six years ago! She'll be on the shelf if you wait any longer. I've given enough autonomy to you, and clearly, I am the only one who's worried about the poor child!"

Your aunt announces to your mother a fair morning in September, having arrived at your townhouse in London a mere three days after you and your family had yourselves arrived for the season.

You freeze in your seat at the sudden change in topic (they had been discussing lace doilies, for heaven's sake), teacup raised halfway to your mouth. Your mother is also taken aback at this, although she hides it better than you, having years of experience dealing with your father's cousin.

Painting a gracious smile, ignoring your sudden personification of the stone gargoyles that graced the roof of your townhouse, she swallows her sip of tea.

"Surely, you've given this a lot of thought."

Your aunt sniffs, the flamboyant feathers on her dress quivering as you watch, teacup still in hand, " Someone has to! You handle a household so charmingly my dear, but you are too lax with your daughter. I should have known the moment you and my brother decided on teaching the lass Mathematics and Science. Honestly, had she taken up the piano forte instead she might already be popping out her third child!"

Your mother's smile becomes strained as she pats your hand, gesturing you to put down your teacup. "The piano forte is of course, a fine skill to be knowledgeable of. We have been looking for suitable er suitors for her, but you must know how the mart is, there's been a recent dearth of good men."

"What a load of hogwash that is! You know the ladies of the ton have been talking, after that whole ordeal with Lord Miya, especially Lady Evans- she gossips entirely too much for her own good. Either way, I have a perfect gentleman in mind for her, in fact they share quite a bit in common."

You watch in horror as your mother's interest piques at this, and your aunt barrels on. White noise fills your ears as you find yourself rising from the breakfast table, barely remembering to excuse yourself, rushing to your room. Gripping a bed post you lower yourself on your bed. It wasn't as if you were unaware of the fact that you were nearing an age after which you could no longer be looked at as an eligible option, nor were you unaware that your parents wished you married soon. However, you quite liked your life on the sidelines. You had a bit more autonomy than usual for an unmarried woman your age, and after what your friends and neighbors had said about marriage itself, you certainly were in no rush to partake.

You had to get out of this, by any means necessary.

♛

"D'you reckon Lady Wei has a female lover? I didn't know you could do that, Mama always said only men and women can be married, but that's such an old concept, don't you think?" your friend chatters, pointing out various people milling about at the Beauford-Shankar Annual Ball. You had attended every year, since your debut, and so had your friend, and usually the two of you would have a splendid time, pigging out on the different cakes and gossiping about the various characters who showed up each year. However, this year, you could barely stomach the few sips of lemonade you had, stomach turning at the prospect of meeting Lord Grant, the oh-so-perfect suitor your aunt has scrounged up.

"Oh!" she gasps, "and did you hear? Lady Garcia was ruined over the summer, by none other than our favorite rake, Lord Oikawa. She's apparently headed to the continent now, to traipse around, since she can spend her dowry as wishes. I wish I could do the same, Lord Oikawa please ruin me!" she laments, pretending to swoon against the window in front of which the two of you were situated.

Casting another cursory sweep around the ballroom, you turn towards your friend smiling, " And what news about our second favorite rake, Duke Kageyama? I overheard two ladies discussing he saved yet another poor girl from marrying her grandfather's schoolmate."

Your friend's eyes widen as she latches onto your arm, "Did I not tell you? He's so dashing, a libertine of course, having ruined what- at least fifty girls by now-" she stops to fan her face. "But all those women would have been positively miserable, had they married their intendeds. He's done the world a great good, if you were to ask me."

Smiling slightly, you're reminded of a quiet boy. You cannot recall his features very well, but it is rather hard to forget the only man who's ever caught your eye. You hadn't realized he'd turn into a libertine, but at least in your memories he'd always be the shy boy who'd helped his older sister secure her love match.

Lifting the glass of lemonade to your lips, you take a sip, before promptly choking, as you catch sight of your aunt and mother, being followed by a blonde gentleman, heading straight towards you.

♛

Tobio was decidedly not having a good time. Society events were low on the list of things he did enjoy, and after many years of not attending any, the Beauford-Shankar Ball was bordering unbearable.

"Tobio! Smile a little, you'll scare off all your admirers."

"Lord Sugawara, I have no idea what you're talking about."

"It's your first society event in nearly six years, why don't you look around? See if anyone catches your eye, or if you can even find that one girl who you used to stare at."

Tobio sputters, cheeks heating, "I- I didn't stare at anyone, and besides even if I had she would have been married by now."

Swallowing, an unbidden image of an eighteen-year-old girl comes to his mind, laughing at something Miwa had said to her. He'd been nineteen that year, much too young to even think about marriage and too focused on his sudden inheritance of the Kageyama dukedom. Miwa had married that year, and he had been running himself ragged trying to keep everything in order. But he remembered that one ball, the last one of that season, a young woman with a throaty laugh, big eyes and a closed posture, as if she were unsure of being there. He hadn't caught more than a glimpse of her, but her memory had remained, after all these years.

Suppressing a twinge of jealousy and sadness Tobio continued, "There was no one. Besides, it is becoming a little difficult to enjoy myself with all these Mamas glaring at me."

Sugawara tilts his head, surveying the room. "Ah, that must be because you've deflowered nearly fifty young ladies these few years."

"Yes, there's that but- wait, wait a moment, what? What did I do?" Tobio turns to Sugawara, astonishment smeared across his face, eyes narrowed incredulously.

"Deflowered, ruined, y'know all the good stuff." Sugawara shrugs with a small grin.

"No, what- I, no that's impossible. I- yes, there's been one or two women, but not- not young ladies. What are you saying?"

"Well, Your Grace, in the years you've declined to grace, ha, us with your presence, the gossip mill has churned quite a bit. You've prevented many marriages; I am sure you're aware."

Feeling completely discombobulated at the news, Tobio groans, "You have got to be jesting, there's no way- I certainly would know if I had ruined fifty young ladies, and I can assure you I have done no such thing."

"The truth is often not gossiped about my young friend. It seems as if the young ladies of the ton are taking advantage of your absence from society to escape from their intended marriages by using your name. They say they've been ruined by you, pay off a maid to spread rumors of 'catching' the two of you in the act and voila! No unhappy marriages for these women, and an expansion of your sordid reputation."

Scrubbing a hand across his face, Tobio sighs," and you did not think to inform me of these happenings, at least once?"

"I was completely under the impression that you were a right rake!"

Tipping his head back, Tobio sighs again. This was going to be a long season.

♛

"Well? What do you think about Lord Grant? He's the modern sort of man, isn't he?" your mother asks you the morning after the ball, hope evident in her eyes.

"He's nice, I suppose," you mutter, refraining from mentioning exactly how modern the man was. "Sure, if thinking a woman's only role in life is being a perfect wife- then yes, he's perfectly modern."

Your mother frowns at this," darling, you know Lord Grant is a better choice than being a spinster. He may have his faults, but your aunt is right, your father and I have been too careless on the topic of your marriage. You've always been the adjusting sort, surely you can adjust here as well?"

Pressing your lips together you offer no reply, choosing to focus on your breakfast instead. Your mother sighs, pressing her fingertips to her temple.

"All of this would have been easier had you just accepted Earl Miya's proposal two years ago. I don't see how you could refuse a man of his type!"

"Lord Miya had proposed to me because he had lost a wager, Mama. I was not going to marry a man only because he was trying to honor his dignity."

"Nonsense, wherever did you get such an idea!"

"Well, you see, the other Lord Miya-"

"And whyever would you be a wager forfeit, of all things!"

There was no arguing against her. "Mama, I do not wish to marry Lord Grant."

Your mother appeared to have gained selective hearing.

"There's to be another ball tonight. You will dance with Lord Grant and form a more solid opinion on him. Your father is already quite fond of him."

"Mama, why are we doing this now? We don't have to listen to Aunt-"

"And stay away from the edges of the room and other dark corners, Lord Sugawara is friends with the nastiest men, I do not know why, he is a gracious man, but London's notorious are sure to be there tonight. The last thing we need is you to be found with, with that Lothario Oikawa, or worse, Kageyama!"

Rolling your eyes this time you retort, "Mama, the ton hasn't seen Duke Kageyama in years, I wouldn't even know who to look out for. As for Lord Oikawa-"

You stop. Lord Oikawa, notorious libertine, deflowerer of virgins, and all-round suave gentleman. Lord Oikawa, who from the whispers of the ton, was tall and handsome, and never turned a lady down.

You smiled.

"Mama, please be sure to ask Lord Grant to find me before the final waltz."

♛

"You've completely lost it, haven't you?"

You choose to ignore your friend, and continue your search for Lord Oikawa.

"Why is it, that he's our favorite rake, yet we've never actually seen what he looks like?"

"He's tall and handsome and has the prettiest eyes, or so I'm told. There cannot be many men that fit that description, can there?"

You discreetly point to a man standing in front of the painting of a fruit bowl, seemingly immersed in thought.

"There, he fits the bill perfectly, would you not say?"

Your friend follows your finger, before seeming to melt at the sight of the man.

"That's Baron Wakatoshi, he is quite tall and handsome, isn't he?"

"What about the man on the stairwell?"

"That's Lord Kuroo, he's quite a catch too, I must say-"

"What about him?" you whisper urgently, "in the center of the gaggle of mamas."

"That's Lord Kita, any lady who catches his eye would be the luckiest woman ever. And I mean ever-"

You groan, pressing your palm to your face. Why was Lord Sugawara acquainted with so many tall and handsome men? Granted he too was a part of the set, but surely friendship required more criteria? Perhaps a love of Plato, or horse riding?

Your friend suddenly tugs at your wrist, "that's him, oh my goodness, it has to be! Look at the refreshments, in the maroon coat, that's Lord Oikawa!"

An icy shiver bolted down your spine, as you glanced at the refreshments table. Now that you had found him, it was time to seduce him.

"The maroon coat you say?"

"Yes, he's reaching for that pastry look!"

You paused.

"That is not Lord Oikawa. That's Lord Miya."

Your friend looks at you with her eyes widened.

"You turned down a proposal from that man? It's worse than I thought!"

"No, I turned down a proposal from his brother, although they are identical, I suppose."

Your friend moaned," why haven't you introduced me to him, I could have been Lady Miya by now. You're a terrible friend."

"Er, I'm not exactly friends with him, but I'm sure he'll recognize me. Do you want an introduction now, or-"

A flash of navy catches the corner of your eye. You sharply turn your head, to watch a tall, dark-haired man slip out the garden door. Frowning, you glance at the clock, the final waltz would begin soon, and no gentleman would escape to the gardens right before it. It had to be him.

"I- I'm heading to the gardens, if Mama comes looking for me, tell her I'm in the gardens."

Your friend, still fixated on Lord Miya, flutters her hand in a go shoo motion. "Happy ravishment dear, tell me how it goes will you?"

♛

Tobio never should have believed Sugawara. Tonight's ball was worse than the previous and once Tobio caught sight of Oikawa it had been game over. Without looking back, he had rushed out the doors into the cool night. Making his way through the garden maze, he arrives at the center of it, where a small waterfall sparkles under the moonlight. Loosening his cravat, he pulls it off and slips it into his pocket, gulping fresh air. Tilting his head back, he closes his eyes, grateful for the solitary moment. He'd always hated the London ton- the socializing, the small talk, the judgement. Perhaps he ought to retire for the season and return back to his country home.

A rustling of skirts draws his attention, and he turns quickly, eyes flying open and, oh.

It's you. The girl from six years ago.

You don't quite look the same, but you do. Your stand straight now, eyes fixed on him. The same eyes, the same lips. Tobio feels the strongest urge to say something jocular, to hear you laugh again- to know if it was the same. However, before he can open his mouth, you're making your way to him, purpose in your steps. Instinctively he takes a step back, the back of his shins bumping into a stone bench.

"I," you begin, and Tobio's lips part at your voice.

"I," you say again, before stopping to take a deep breath. It takes every ounce of strength to Tobio has to not let his eyes flicker down as your bosom heaves with the motion.

"You're Lord Tooru Oikawa."

Tobio blinks. It cannot be, there's no way. No fucking way.

Before he can inject, you continue, effectively quashing any opportunity for him to rectify your mistake.

"I'm going to just say it, so please listen. I need to be ravished, right now."

Tobio's head has stopped working, and clearly so have his ears. There is no way in actual hell you said what he thought you did, and not to someone you thought was fucking Oikawa.

"I know it's improper to ask, and I'm not sure how these things go exactly, but I really need you to- to," you stumble over your words, clearly unsure what a ravishment entails.

Tobio finally finds his words and raises a hand to stop you.

"You have the wrong person, and I'm not sure why you're here, but your reputation would be ruined if you were to be found with me. Please let me leave you alone."

Heart pounding, he goes to move, but you quickly close in on the few paces that separate the two of you. Startled by your sudden proximity, Tobio drops down on the bench behind him.

"No, please. You don't understand- I need you to, to ruin me."

"You want to be fucked by Oikawa?" Tobio asks incredulously, feeling too confused and hurt to register the use of profanity before a young lady.

You frown, brow furrowing.

"Er, yes- I want to be ahem fucked, by you," you whisper the word, and a shiver runs down Tobio's back.

You move closer, placing your hands on his shoulders, and nudging his legs apart so that you can stand between them.

"Please, fuck me."

♛

You had no idea why Lord Oikawa was referring to himself in third person, but you decided to move on to more pressing matters. The man in question was looking up at you, eyes darkened, and mouth parted.

The rumors weren't wrong, and with a face like that- you could see why the ladies of the ton were queuing up to be ravished by this man.

There was something so curiously familiar about this man as well, although you suppose that was a part of his charm as well.

His hands rise to hover around the vicinity of your waist- hesistating.

Impatiently you guide his hands to your waist, heart backflipping as he immediately squeezes and pulls you closer to rest his head on your stomach.

"You don't know what you're asking for."

You shiver at his dark tone, acutely aware of his hands wandering, stopping occasionally to press into a particularly plush part.

"I know what I want."

"What if I were to tell you this is it? This is all there is to ravishment?"

"No!" you blurt out, sinking your hands into his hair and pulling, "it's not enough."

Inhaling sharply, he tugs, pulling you fully into his lap, knees on either side of his hips. Wrapping an arm around your waist he leans in, lips brushing yours as he speaks, warm breath fanning across your face.

"Say it again, tell me what you want."

Heat pooling in your lower stomach, you swallow once before you're able to get the words out. You feel your nipples peak, pushing against the thin silk of your dress.

"I want you to fuck me," you whisper, "I need you to fuck me."

His eyes flutter shut as slowly exhales, one hand sliding up your back to rest on your nape. Tilting your head back he leans forward and presses an open-mouthed kiss right in between your collarbones, then lower. You gasp as he licks across your décolletage, nipping at the swells of your breasts. Your nerves feel on fire, liquid lava coursing as he continues his ministrations.

"Who?" he murmurs, "Who do you need to fuck you?"

Whimpering you grind down on his lap, desperate for some sort of friction. Cursing softly, he rolls his hips up, and you whine as something hard presses against your core, at just the right angle- leaving you incapable of coherent thought.

"Please, again, just-" you cry, desperately searching for that rhythm again. Panting, he grips your waist again, lifting and moving you on his lap so that you're able to chase your pleasure.

The two of you rock together, Oikawa cursing under his breath as he scrambles to untie the laces holding your dress together. A faint part of you wonders why a rake with so much experience was struggling with a mere corset, but that thought vanishes the moment he slips his hands into your dress. Grinding against him, you frantically get rid of your gloves as he pushes your bodice down, baring yourself for him and the cool night. Sinking your hands into his hair you gasp again, as he nips at the edge of your nipple, before enveloping the entire thing.

"I. I'm-" you feel something building inside you, gasping for air.

"Yeah, just from this? Fuck, let go darling, I have you, just-"

You moan as your pleasure crashes over you, panting. He holds you close through it, pressing gentle kisses wherever he can reach. Panting, you come down from your high, hands gripping his shoulder for purchase.

Cheeks warm, you lift your head to look at him, finding his dark eyes trained on you.

"Open your mouth," he whispers, breath fanning over your face. Swallowing, you follow his orders.

"Wider."

You part your mouth even more. Pausing for a heartbeat, his eyes flicker down to your lips, before the corner of his mouth lifts- just barely- the beginnings of a half-smile. Leaning in, he licks into your mouth, muffling your whine. You move to kiss him back, but he sharply draws back.

"Did I say you could do that? Sit on my lap and keep your mouth open, just for me."

Eyes flickering shut, you part your mouth once more, waiting.

"You're such a good girl."

Saliva pools in your mouth as he continues licking, one hand gripping your jaw, palm resting against your neck, to keep you in position- the other slipping under your dress, flirting up your thigh.

Which is exactly how your mother, your aunt, and Lord Grant find the two of you.

♛

Your aunt's shriek pierces the night, causing the two of you to fly apart- well it would've, had Lord Oikawa not held firm on your very naked back. There was certainly no way to misconstrue what was happening here.

Biting your lip to hide a smile, you glance up at Lord Oikawa, who seems shell-shocked.

"What on earth is this! I cannot believe it, this- this is a mistake," your aunt continues, as more people start trailing over, alerted by your aunt's shriek. Your mother rushes over immediately, "Your dress, button up your dress, my god."

Oikawa seems to spring into action at this, sliding his coat off and covering you, ensuring you're completely covered before helping you slide off his lap and stand on your own. As more people crowd around, hushed murmurs and gasps fill the air, the rake strikes again!

The crowd parts as two tall gentlemen make their way.

"What is the issue here-"

"Oho? What indeed is the issue here?"

"Lord Sugawara, Lord Oikawa," the man behind you (still standing so close) begins, before stopping short.

You decide to take over, your plan had worked splendidly, might as well help the man out a little.

"Lord Sugawara, Lord Oikawa," you begin as well, curtseying to the best of your ability in the oversized coat.

Wait. Lord Oikawa?

You whip your head back at the man behind you, and then at the men in front of you.

"Lord Oikawa?" you ask again, hesitantly, and the man beside Lord Sugawara makes a noise of affirmation.

"Tobio-chan, it looks like you've surpassed me and Lord Miya!"

Dread fills you as you realize why Lord Oikawa, no, not-Lord-Oikawa had been speaking in third person and had been so insistent on names.

You turn to your mother, who looks like she's taken to praying, and then back to the man behind- now beside you.

Lord Kageyama.

Thoughts racing, you breathe. No harm done anyway, all you needed was to be ravished- what did it matter if it just so happened to be the quiet boy who had caught your eye six years ago, who had somehow turned into a rake. How did you not recognize him?

"Alright everyone, let's let the family handle this. Back to the ball, off you go," the other Lord Miya's voice cuts through the chatter, and you catch his bemused eye as he winks at you.

Your aunt comes forward, anger visible on her face.

"I will marry her."

Everyone stops.

Lord Kageyama turns to you, " Let's get married."

[russellsppttemplates]

Aw the one with max leaving and Finn thinking he left without saying bye was so cuteeeeee

Would you be able to do this maybe with lando and teen daughter that just got into an argument but he has to leave and tries to knock on her door and she doesn’t hear him out but then runs after him knowing he’s ab to leave fr a race

"Have you seen Matilda?", Lando asked Fraser as he gave him one last hug before he drove to the airport, "last time I saw her, she was going up to her bedroom", he said as Lando excused himself from you two, going upstairs to say goodbye to your daughter.

The teenage years were peculiar, he knew that, and only now did he understand his parents' point of view whenever he felt wronged when they didn't let him do what he wanted. An argument over a silly thing had your oldest giving him the silent treatment, but he still hoped for a hug goodbye before he flew to Australia for the Grand Prix.

"No luck", he said as he came back downstairs, trying not to let it show how much it was affecting him that she wasn't saying goodbye, "can you help me put those in the car, baby?", he asked you as you retrieved his coat and backpack.

Lando was giving you one last kiss before he got in his car when you heard Matilda's voice, "Dad!", she called, not caring about the fact that she was wearing her slippers outside of the house as you and Fraser made room for her to hug Lando properly.

"I'm going to miss you", she said into his chest, "I'm going to miss you, too", Lando sighed at the feeling of his daughter back on his embrace, "don't be pain for your mum, okay?", he tutted.

"I won't be", she blushed, "I'm sorry, for yesterday, and I was in the bathroom when you knocked", Matilda cleared up.

"It's all good now, princess", he kissed the top of her head, "have a safe trip, dad", she smiled as he got inside his car, the three of you waving as he drove off.

(Thank you for submitting an ask ✨️)

[apomaro-mellow]

Wrong Number 2

Someone said they liked when authors put their super-specific jobs in fics so I hope ya like Steve havin a (kinda romanticized) past job of mine.

For the first time in his life, Steve felt like the stereotypical young person who was always glued to his phone. Every time it made a noise or vibrated, his arm shot out like lightning, hoping with every fiber of his being that it was the mystery number.

It had been about five days since he'd sent that first message and he'd been worried about their conversations being stale. But that wasn't an issue. The only times their talks lulled was when they went to bed.

And even that was after texting late into the night. Steve would watch the clock go from 9 to 10 and promise to get to sleep at a reasonable hour. And then it would be midnight and what was a few minutes after that? Then he'd look up and it would be 2 in the morning.

Texting this guy had become the highlight of Steve's days. To the point where he didn't even realize Friday had come until one of his students mentioned it.

Then, purely out of habit, he asked: "Any weekend plans?"

"I've got a soccer game", Zach answered.

"My parents are having date night", Belinda said.

And normally Steve himself would be thinking about going out and finding someone for the night. But the idea hadn't come to him for once. He knew why, but he didn't fully process it until he got home to Robin, who was in the middle of cooking breakfast for dinner it seemed.

Steve was in the middle of replying to a text sent during lunch.

(12:15) I just realized you know about my off the wall job (12:17) But I have no idea what your 9 to 5 is (12:18) Your legally required to tell me if ur famous (12:18) Not bc im a clout chaser (12:19) But bc I might not have a clue who you are

[4:13] Not famous. Don't worry. I'm a teacher.

(4:15) As a former student I apologize

Robin opened the cabinet, looking for pancake mix. “Are you and that girl still texting?”

“Me and the who?”, Steve looked up from his phone.

“That girl? I assume you're finally setting up a date for this weekend?"

"She-" Steve racked his brain for a good excuse. But it was hard to do when the person who knew him the most was staring right at him.

"Whatever flaws of hers you're about to make up, I'm gonna call bullshit because your phone hasn't stopped pinging for days." She started mixing the pancake batter.

Steve looked down at the words on his screen. The one flaw of this guy was that they couldn't meet in person. But maybe it was time to close the distance just a bit.

"She's shy. Might just text a bit more before she's ready."

[4:19] No need for sorries. All my kids are great. But that's probably because I teach their favorite class.

(4:21) Oooh their favorite? (4:21) It's gotta be something like art rite? (4:22) Or are you being a smart ass cuz you teach like calculus or something?

[4:23] I teach cooking 😛

(4:23) Oh shit. (4:24) You're actually the favorite

[4:25] Toldja. Hey quick question and then possibly many more questions.

(4:26) Go ooooon

[4:27] How would you feel about spending the night playing 20 questions? Like are you free tonight?

Eddie bit his lip as he looked at Steve's words. He had picked his shifts this weekend to make sure he had plenty of time to talk to Steve. Which meant he was in fact free tonight. He replied as such and Steve said he wanted a little time to take a shower and then he'd be ready.

And because he was a little shit, Eddie took advantage of him being away from his phone.

(4:35) Since you're in the shower, I'm taking the first question. Boxers or briefs?

[4:54] Cheater. And I prefer boxer briefs. My turn?

(4:55) Go for it

Eddie was curled up on his couch, tv low and in the background as he waited for Steve's question.

[4:55] What's your name?

(4:56) THATS your first question? (4:56) Wait we've been texting for days haven't you saved my number? (4:57) What do you have me as?

Steve bit his lip, wishing he could lie to this guy, but he couldn’t. Instead he sent a screenshot of his phone.

(4:59) Misty? That’s the name of the chick?

[5:00] Yeah. But I guess I should put your actual name now, right?

It was a gamble. But this guy already knew Steve’s name. And by this point they’d been texting for nearly a week. He just wanted to know his name. He pushed back the part of himself that said he needed to know.

(5:00) It's Eddie.

Eddie. The guy he'd been talking to was named Eddie. Eddie with the long curly hair and the chunky rings who threw axes for a living. He was a far cry from the soft girls he usually dated. Or the preppy guys he usually dated.

(5:02) Favorite bug?

The question threw Steve for a moment but he decided to humor him.

[5:04] Bees 🐝I like how fuzzy they are. And I like honey. [5:05] What rings do you have?

A couple minutes later, Eddie replied with an image. It was taken from above and showed his hands lying flat on a coffee table. Steve zoomed to make out the details of each ring. He was also able to see a watch and a couple of wristbands on him.

[5:08] How did you take that picture? With your mouth? 🦭

(5:09) Did you did you just compare me to a seal???

[5:09] What other animal catches things in their mouths?

'I can be an animal with my mouth'. Thankfully, Eddie's fingers weren't as fast as his brain and he didn't send that to Steve. Eddie had in fact put his phone in his mouth the take the picture, having a real 'no thoughts, head empty moment' when Steve asked about his rings.

Steve was letting his own mind wander as he gazed at the picture. Eddie's hands were...his hands were...well they were-

(5:10) Favorite youtuber?

The adoration of Eddie's hands were interrupted by Eddie himself as their question and answers continued. The picture continued as well. Steve sent pics of his favorite pair of shoes, his hair products, and of his neck when Eddie said he didn't believe he had all these moles.

Eddie had sent pictures of one arm, covered in tats, his acoustic guitar, and a super worn copy of Peter Pan.

The hour was growing late and both of them were feeling more bold but at the same time hesitant because it felt like they were close to crossing a line.

Needing an outside opinion, Eddie consulted with The Council (the discord server with his band mates) about whether or not he should shoot his shot. Gareth told him to go for it, what harm could it do? Grant said to do it because it could potentially be the funniest catfishing story. Jeff agreed that he should, if only because their guitarist getting murdered would be a great back story.

With their unanimous approval, Eddie decided to start actively flirting with Steve.

(8:37) Soooooo ya like jazz?

[8:38] I do actually. I really love the piano.

Okay, that one was just practice. Be smooth. Be suave. None of that was in Eddie's wheelhouse but thankfully nothing he said turned Steve away. He always seemed just as eager to reply back.

(9:10) What's your oldest piece of clothing?

Eddie was thinking of his own oldest article a t-shirt that had started out overgrown on his tiny eight year old body but he'd grown into and kept over the years. It was super faded but filled with the memory of the first time he spent more than a couple of days with his uncle.

[9:12] I'd show you, but I'm wearing them right now.

Steve had closed his bedroom door before sending the text. There wasn't anything scandalous but it seemed like it could very quickly veer into that territory. All Eddie had to do was ask. If he wanted to see them, Steve would show it.

'I would like to see it.'

(9:12) I would like to see it

Eddie knew it could be anything. Maybe a holey sock. Or maybe he also had a super faded t-shirt with deep sewn-in memories as well. Maybe he was wearing a class ring?

[9:14] image.jpeg

Eddie was treated (and goddamn what a treat it was) to Steve Harrington's bottom half, barely covered in shorts with a school's logo on them. Thick thighs covered in hair. And a bulge that was there. It was very there. Eddie couldn't overstate how there it was.

He palmed his own crotch before remembering he was looking at a guy's junk and about to jerk off to it in his living room. And he had yet to answer. What was the most respectful way to say 'humina humina humina-wolf whistle-awooga'?

(9:16) Are you trying to kill me Steve?

[9:17] Do you like it?

'Awooga.'

(9:18) ❤️‍🔥 🔥 🥵

Eddie tried to think of any other way to tell Steve how hot he made him but it felt like typing words just wasn't enough.

(9:19) Can I do something insane? (9:20) And feel free to ignore me if it's too much

Steve was lying in his bed, phone of his charger now. Nothing Eddie could do would be too much. He could knock on his door and he would let him in.

[9:21] Go ahead

A second after he sent that, Steve's phone started to ring. It was Eddie. He stared for about five seconds before picking up.

"Hey."

"Hey."

If possible, Steve melted more into his bed. Eddie's voice...he didn't know what he expected but it wasn't that. He said one word and Steve wanted to wrap himself in it.

"That was pretty naughty of you, sending me that pic. I could show up to your school."

"You'd be a few years too late. These are my oldest shorts, remember?"

"Tiniest shorts maybe."

Steve laughed and Eddie was on cloud nine. He was so lost in bliss, he miscalculated and fell off the couch.

"What was that?"

"I uh, I fell. Off my couch."

"Did you fall hard?"

Eddie beamed as he got up and turned off the tv. Now that he had his voice, all he wanted to hear was the man on the other line.

"Oh super hard."

Steve let out a sound from the back of his throat and he wondered if Eddie had heard it. It was honestly amazing how the smallest things got him going. Or maybe he was just that into Eddie.

"You still there Steve?"

....."Yeah. I'm still here."

Part 4

Tag Team (closed)

@anne-bennett-cosplayer @estrellami-1 @newtstabber @omletlove @ifyoudonlysurrender @rehfan @morganski-19 @corvidcantina @dragonmama76 @just-ladyme @tinyplanet95 @goodolefashionedloverboi @idoquitelikebread @kittydeadbones @manda-panda-monium @rhapsodyinalto @paintsplatteredandimperfect @keylime-green @ihavekidneys @samsoble @honorarybrit81 @swimmingbirdrunningrock @aizawa-emma @deleataecount @thesuninyaface @fromapayphone @justmeinadaze @hbyrde36 @queenie-ofthe-void @resident-gay-bitch @bestwifehaver @dangdirtydemons @ellietheasexylibrarian @perseus-notjackson @pyrohonk @holysteddie @cinnamon-mushroomabomination @mrsjellymunson @geekymagicalpotato @notaqueenakhaleesi @phantomcat94 @ladylokilaufeyson5 @dude-as-in-i-love-u @micheledawn1975 @magpiemuseum @novelnovella @marklee-blackmore @stevesbipanic @martinskis-lydias @beckkthewreck @gay-little-bitch @everywherenothere @emma-elsa-0000 @rlpersephone3259 @songbird-garden @trucoop @omgshesinsane @fantrash @7-starboi @soulminyg @larawrmonster @blackpanzy @offical-potato @aellafreya @mightbeasleep @lorelei724 @moomkin77

If you were tagged but it didn't show up in your notifications, lemme know and I'll do that thing where I tag you in a reblog instead. I know tumblr can't be trusted to function XD

[numberoneredriotfan]

Tw: Mentions of child abuse and sa

Mitsuki Bakugou is such an interesting character to me... I know everyone is always quick to either defend or accuse her (of abuse), but honestly, I don't think her treatment of Bakugou is a black and white topic.

First point, I know the show frames Bakugou's violent nature as something that's been apart of him since he was a kid. Like, he was just born like that of course!

It is somewhat pictured this way in team up missions. But let's be honest, children grow up following their parents as an example. I don't like the whole excuse that the only reason Mitsuki is violent towards Bakugou bc Bakugou is violent towards her. Why is he violent towards her?? It's completely plausible that Mitsuki was violent and aggressive even before Bakugou was born, and Bakugou somewhat led by her example. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, you know?

This scene in particular is interesting. People who defend Mitsuki are often quick to say that, well, he was yelling at her, so of course she hit him!

First off... your child lashing at you should not be an excuse to hit them. Bakugou was just yelling here, he didn't make any violent threat or action towards he. And, it's also good to note that before this, she had hit Bakugou for literally no reason...

Like... we can see here that Bakugou was just sitting there quietly. He even looks a little dejected (understandable considering what he had just gone through). This slap was completely unprovoked??? Of course, this is played off for laughs, but it really gives you an insight on their dynamic. And just after Mitsuki hit him, Bakugou even exclaimed "that hurt!" (In the english dub) ....prompting her to hit him again, as I showed above. This is obviously concerning. And yes, you can argue that dealing with Bakugou's violent and aggressive nature simply wore her out to this point, but again, where do we draw the line with using physical violence against your child?? Does being bratty excuse it?? Does having good intentions excuse it?? What excuses it?? It becomes really hard to justify it when you ask yourself those questions.

Bakugou also makes these comments when they're trying to win over the Masegaki kids... confirming that Mitsuki used violence towards him even as a young child.

Furthermore, Mitsuki isn't painted in the best light even outside of Bakugou... some people may disagree, but Masaru and Mitsuki don't seem to have a healthy marriage. At all. In fact, it seems to be almost abusive to an extent.

This seems to be the normal dynamic in the Bakugou household. Which um. Isn't healthy in the slightest. It's ALSO implied that Mitsuki forced herself on him...

"So you couldn't refuse her." Hello?

I will address that Masaru is blushing in that panel, so it could be seen that Masaru was reciprocating with Mitsuki's "flirtations" but still, "pounced" is an interesting choice of words. This is also played off for comedy because we all know how well shounen treats male sa victims.

She also goes as far to say-

Mitsuki is blatantly victim blaming here. Even if she wasn't being serious, or putting on a front for the teachers, this is a horrible things to say to your son who just went through something traumatizing. It's often ignored because of his brash nature, that Bakugou is still a kid. He was only fifeteen or sixteen at the time he was kidnapped. He has to live with the burden of feeling like he was the reason for his idol's fall. That is a LOT of turmoil for a kid to go through. Imagine you're in the midst of dealing with all that, and your mom insinuates that it's YOUR fault. That's awful. Even if Mitsuki was putting on a front, how was Bakugou supposed to know that??

So, it's pretty obvious that the way Mitsuki treats Bakugou is abuse. But, does mean that Mitsuki doesn't care about Bakugou?? No. Of course not. She loves her son, and it's clear she does. To us, at least.

We see her affectionately looking at her son's photo album.

She admits that she was worried about him while loving ruffling his hair.

She absentmindedly thinks about how he isn't a fan of rain when he's away.

Mitsuki loves Bakugou. There's no doubt about that. But unfortunately, kids will only ever see how their parents present themselves towards them. We can see that Bakugou was present when Mitsuki admitted that she was worried about him, but that was still after she had hit him and victim blamed him. And Bakugou in that panel... almost looked used to it. Used to receiving hits and used to having her do a motherly gesture every now and then, giving him mixed signals. That must be a very stressful way to grow up.

Yes, we can blame Bakugou's quirk, how everyone hyped him up for his current behavior... but if we dig a bit deeper, are those really the only reasons he was so violent towards others?? Or is it possible that he was subconsciously mimicking his mother's behavior?? This does NOT excuse Bakugou's behavior, but it does help put things into perspective.

I think that while Mitsuki loves her son, Bakugou will always have conflicting feelings towards her, and that may end up with their relationship being strained as he reaches adulthood.

Honestly, it's concerning how when dealing with the Todoroki family, Horikoshi portrayed Endeavor's abuse in a serious light, showing how it impacted Todoroki and the family. But Mitsuki, her abuse towards her son is consistently plays off for laughs. As a gag of sorts. That's the common pattern when we see Mitsuki act that way towards Bakugou, it's always framed in a comedic light. Why is that when it's a conventionally attractive woman doing the abuse it's funny?

I have thoughts on Masaru too, but that's a whole other post... so for now, I'll say that Masaru is also complicit in Mitsuki's treatment towards Bakugou, but also a victim of his wife.

You are feel free to have a different take on Mitsuki, but this is how I read her character.

[sparklingmusicofstars]

Hamefura : Is Millidiana a good mother ?

Well my answer is obvious : not at all. I think she is an awful mother.

I have a lot of reasons to think that :

1.She doesn't think of her daughter's happiness

When Catarina got engaged to Geordo we saw that she was happy at first, like her husband but then she changed her mind after Catarina became more wild. The reason is simple, unlike Luigi she was never happy for her because she was going to marry someone she loved but only because it means that she could brag about her daughter most likely becoming the future queen and gaining more power for the Claes family. She doesn't care about whether Catarina loves Geordo or not. And now she doesn't want Catarina to marry into the royal family, not because she is worried about her daughter having a hard time or not loving Geordo, but because she is scared that she would bring shame to her because she is not a perfect noble lady. And when Catarina go on a trip for the Ministry instead of being worried and asking her to be careful she only told her not to do anything weird during it. (And no, being dense and not realizing that Geordo loves Catarina isn't an excuse for being selfish)

Also she doesn't want Catarina to travel for a reason very different from her husband. Luigi is worried for Catarina because he is protective towards her and doesn't want to let her to her own devices. While Millidiana isn't worried for Catarina (or at least she doesn't show it at all) she is just worried that like she said “the shame would eventually find its way back to me" which is an awful thing to say to her child. She doesn't even hide the fact that she is ashamed of her daughter and is a very self-centered person.

2.In Fortune Lover she is very cruel towards her children.

Yes, I know what you want to say "she thought that Keith was the illegimate son of her husband" BUT I don't know if it's the case for everyone but If I think my husband has cheated on me I would go giving him a piece of my mind instead of taking it out on the poor innocent child. She's not 5 years old. Of course she is not forced to love him in one day but she can at least try and if she can't do that then just leave him at peace. Moreover she was not only mean to Keith but also to Catarina. In FL she didn't seem to really care about her daughter and only taught her to hate her little brother and let her bully him because it was what she wanted. She also raised her to be proud of her status and being very aware of the norms of nobles. I personally think that FL!Catarina was actually a loving girl who only wanted to be loved by her parents, she didn't have a picture-perfect family while growing up because of the misunderstanding between her parents, she really loved her father but her mother was distant towards her so maybe she was scared that her mother would hate her if she wasn't mean with her little brother since they seem to have become closer after that. Of course she was also resentful towards Keith because his arrival almost broke her family but I don't think it was the main reason.

On this picture we can see that Catarina looks like nothing but an adorable little girl who loves her father.

So my theory is that the reason Catarina became a villainess is mostly because of her mother. After all most of a child's personality is created by their environnement, nobody was born bad. (of course it's not the only reason)

In other words FL!Catarina was just an innocent little girl who suffered from a lack of love because of her parent's relationship.

3. She prefers Keith and doesn't hide it.

In the novel it is explicitely mentionned that Keith is by far her favorite child, because he has better manners than Catarina. She clearly thinks Catarina has nothing going for her. Normally you are supposed to love your children uncondionnally, they don't need to do anything to earn your love.

She also let Anne mostly raise her daughter in hamefura and only talks to her to teach her about the manners of a noble. How do you want a child to be at ease with you if all you do when you meet them is screaming and scolding them ?(especially for an entire night, to the point she had bags under her eyes) Now Catarina is close to traumatized by that.

4. She thinks very lowly of Catarina

In LN5 when the mothers of other nobles said that Catarina was called a saintness at the academy she immediately think it's a mistake and that they are talking about Keith (which is already very mean) that it was impossible Catarina was a saint. But she also thinks Catarina is "devilish" while everyone knows that she is incredibly kind. Her words in LN1 when she described her were also very awful

"Even the single daughter born of my body has turned out to be such a terrible child!"

It's really not a good thing to say in front of your 8 years old daughter. (because, yes Catarina was in the room) I would be very hurt if I was her. Also when Keith disappeared she immediately thought it was because he thought taking care of Catarina was a burden to him because she was too unsufferable and that he hated her just because the servants said Keith looked a bit depressed after talking to Catarina lately. And since Catarina has very low self esteem she immediately believed her and felt very guilty. While Millidiana WAS the one who told Keith to keep an eye on Catarina and he did because he loves her, everybody knows that. (And no, being dense still not make that forgivable)

"so problematic, that she often wonders where she went wrong in bringing her up."

EDIT : She is also quite stupid : Who on earth run away from home when they just don't like taking care of their sibling ?!! (Except in this sibling is REALLY a demon) Even FL!Keith didn't do that. She never thought it was a bit extreme of a solution ? And Keith is not stupid either, he knew that if he had asked her to stop doing it, she would have let him do it. Or ar least talk to Catarina. Moreover she thinks Keith is doing it only because she asked him to, while he is doing that because he loves Catarina. (And she is the only one who never realized that)

She also thinks that she is

which is also a very horrible thing for a mother to say.

Or also "An appreciation society? For that devilish daughter of mine? Who could appreciate that monkey ? Are they sure it is not Keith they are talking about ?"

5. She doesn't support her daughter in anything.

When Catarina asks her parents if they could come to the festival of the academy of magic while her father couldn't because of work, her mother didn't come because she was ashamed of Catarina. I think that in the anime they thought it was too sad so they changed that but when Luigi said that it was a shame that Catarina wasn't in the play, she only said that it was for the best because she would definitely find a way to ruin it. Not a very nice thing to say when your child is doing her best to do a good play with her friends.

6. She is making her daughter's inferiority complex getting worse

Honestly I'm very angry everytime Millidiana says that Catarina isn't worthy to marry a prince. She is worsening her complex and makes Catarina even denser because it makes her think the same. She thinks nobody could love someone like her. I don't understand why Millidiana does that to her own daughter, she is acting like the other noble ladies who want to marry Geordo. Although she knows how it feels to be envied and insulted by nobles to the point where you think the same as them, which is exactly what happen to Catarina. And still she is not helping her, or at least she does it in a very bad way. Moreover in LN3 we saw that hearing the kind of words Millidiana always says to her daughter made Selena very sad and depressed while to Catarina it's just her day to day life at home. It shows clearly that to any other girl than Catarina those words would really hurt and even traumatized someone. Not because Catarina is strong enough to endure insults and painful words means that she deserves them.

7. Catarina thought that her mother wouldn't pay for her ransom if it was too high.(the worse)

When Catarina was kidnapped she was sure that if the ransom was too high her mother wouldn't pay. Which is incredibly dreadful when you think of it. Catarina, who is always optimistic about everything thought something like that. To be honest I also thought that since she really gave off this impression. I felt really sorry for Catarina at this moment, moreover her family doesn't have any money issue so it would just mean that she thinks that her daughter isn't worth paying a high price to save her.

Conclusion :

So, to me Millidiana is an horrible mother and I'm glad mine isn't like that. The anime and the manga gave this a funny and light tone so we don't understand it at first glance and Catarina is so innocent that she doesn't understand most of the time when her mother says or do something bad or she doesn't care. I know it's also a matter of personality so Millidiana is not forced to be very sweet to Radea Ascart's extent but she should at least try to be kinder. There were moments in the series where I was seriously wondering if she even loves Catarina. And I think it's the case at the end, but at the very minimum.

Like usual it's only my opinion and you are free to feel what you want about it.

[prettyboy-buck]

Love Me Anyways

Evan Buckley x Male Reader

A/N heads up, this is going to be a short one. i just wanted to write something small to get me back into the mood of writing. also, if this is the first thing of mine, you're reading, I am shitty with editing. It's currently 5am and I have had zero sleep. I'm really not in the mood to heavily edit this. this would be a continuation of what i believe would have happened after he got into that argument with his parents where he yelled love me anyways at his mom. also... can we take a moment for oliver stark's acting in that scene? insane. one last small thing, i might post a second part to this where his partner would do something very sentimental for him, in hopes to make up for the fact that his parents never made him a baby box... let me know if you would want that:) if you have any requests, please let me know!!

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Y/N was just sitting on the couch, watching tv whenever he heard the front door start to unlock. Buck has a key to his house. So, it wasn't unusual that he would come over at random hours. Y/N is laid back, only in grey sweatpants. He's watching an old episode of The Walking Dead whenever he sees Buck come through the front door. He immediately picks up on the fact that Buck is not okay. He can see tears flowing down his face; this causes him to quickly sit up.

"Buck? What's wrong?" He asks in a panicked tone. Y/N knew that tonight, Buck was going to have dinner with Chimney, Maddie, and his parents.

Buck just shakes his head. He tries to take a deep breath to calm down, but he can't. A sad whimper slips past his lips.

A concerned look breaks out on Y/N's face. He lays back and opens his arms. He says in a soft tone, "Come here."

Buck walks over and lies down in his arms. His body goes directly on top of Y/N's. His arms go around Y/N's waist and his head goes onto his chest. The second Buck is in his arms, he breaks down.

Y/N wraps his arms around Buck's shoulders and holds him tight. His nose nuzzles into Buck's hair. He softly rubs his back and scratches the back of his head.

"I got you. Let it out, you're safe." Y/N whispers to Buck to try and calm him down.

Buck is a wreck. He just cries and cries into Y/N's chest for a few minutes before he finally starts to calm down.

Y/N quietly asks, "Can we talk about it now?"

Buck sighs. He tightens his arms around Y/N's waist tight and nuzzles his head against Y/N's large bicep.

"Dinner was a wreck. I apparently had an older brother that died. It's such a long story that I still don't even know all of the details to. It was kept a secret from me up until now. Maddie even knew... My parents got onto the topic of jobs. They mentioned the fact that they hear I'm in the hospital a lot. I got upset and said you hear, you never come though. Mom always makes up this bullshit excuse that she, "isn't good with hospitals." She was saying she can never come because she can't deal with seeing her children in hospitals. They move from the topic of jobs and dad breaks out a gift he brought Maddie for Jee. It was a baby box filled with her baby stuff. I get excited thinking, oh hey I'm going to get my own one day. Big shocker, my parents did not save any of my baby stuff. I lost it on them after that. I went on about how they just gave up on both of us then told them the reason I'm in therapy is because of them; because I was just a kid that wanted them to just love me anyways."

Y/N stays quiet for a moment then just hugs Buck even tighter. He has a hand on the back of his head. He quietly says, "You know you didn't deserve any of that, right? You were just a little boy that wanted his mother and father to actually look at him and simply love him. That does not make you the bad person."

Buck tenses up hearing Y/N's words. He feels his eyes start to tear up. He hides his face further into Y/N's chest.

Y/N continues speaking in a soft tone, "You are such a strong man, and I am so god damn proud to call you the man that I love. I have watched you grow so much from the little dorky himbo I knew ten years ago, to the strong, caring, smart, loving man you are today. it has been such a privilege to witness that."

Buck feels his body start to tremble as sobs break throughout his chest. He holds onto Y/N tightly with every fiber in his being. He says in broken sobs, "Do you mean that?"

Y/N nods with zero hesitation. He says in a soft tone, "I will repeat it every single day until the day I die, if I have to Buck."

Y/N softly runs his fingers through his hair and rubs his back. He keeps reassuring him in a soft loving voice, "I got you. You're safe. Let it all out."

There are quiet, genuinely sad whimpers slipping past Buck's lips.

Y/N just keeps consoling him, rubbing his back and kissing his temple till he calms down some. He softly sighs and hugs him tight. He says in a quiet voice, "I wish I could take your pain away baby. I do. I love you to the moon and back."

Buck feels beyond drained, mentally and physically, after the dinner and just finally letting out his feelings from it all. He yawns quietly into Y/N's chest.

Y/N smiles softly, caressing the back of his head. "Get some rest, my love. I'll be right here whenever you wake up."

Buck just melts into Y/N's hold and softly sighs.

It doesn't take long before Buck's dozing off.

It's in this moment that Buck realizes, he doesn't need the acceptance and love of others. The love Y/N has for him is bigger than Mount Everest stacked on every other mountain in the entire world. The safety and love he gets from hearing Y/N's heartbeat within this very moment tells him everything he needs to know. He has the one person who truly loves him for him, underneath him.

[metalomagnetic]

So do Sirius’s kids turn out to be less ignorant and have a better understanding of muggle culture? Especially because of Nymphadora’s influence (due to her Muggleborn father). Like would they show an interest in the public library go to concerts (like their dad did) and while I do understand that they’re being raised by the pureblood equivalent of Nazis basically (Bellatrix, Lucius and unfortunately to a lesser extent, Sirius), do the kinds end up not-so-bigoted or less likely to dehumanise muggles and Muggleborns as they grow up, go to Hogwarts and stop parroting their parents?

Do you think the way Sirius grew up to realise the ideology behind Grindelwald was wrong, Sirius’ children would also realise that their family members were the extremely powerful and rich aggressors who were out torturing and killing people for no reason? Would Sirius ever even allude to his children that- that their aunt Bellatrix, uncle Lucius, all the adults there grew up around tortured and killed people simply because they wanted to?- that there was never any greater purpose to it since they wrote already at the apex of their society.

We saw that Sirius tells Harry a sanitised and falsified version of this- to atleast make it seem like it was war and not simply terrorism and that the murder of Harry’s parents had meaning. But as Harry and his sibling get older, do they get told or just realise the truth? Especially because Nymphadora already understands/knows the truth atleast subconsciously- she just doesn’t wanna acknowledge it - will Sirius’ children be the same?

Will Sirius ever mull on the fact that his beloved Bellatrix is a terrorist - who killed people only for her enjoyment? Or will he excuse beloved Bella, the way he did when she murdered Marlene and her family?

This aspect of the story is truly so dark- the parts where Sirius is grappling with the fact that his family is out here killing and torturing people with no remorse in order to “avenge” Evan when them and their pointless terrorism is the reason his death occurred in the first place, as well as his own pureblood anger over Evan’s death. It’s great. You’re great. The way you weave all these conflicting thoughts into Sirius’ psyche is just amazing.

I also love how in the later chapters, Sirius slowly reconciles with the fact that he is not as good a person as he wishes he was and his moral code- of harming a hundredfold whoever harms him or his. I also like to think that Sirius is probably the kindest and most (open minded? liberal?) accepting Head of House and that he probably wouldn’t go murder a Muggleborn prime minister or hinder their career needlessly out of sheer hatred and prejudice lmao.

Also when I’m reading your fic I keep hoping the kids turn out better because of the kind of father Sirius is- As in his kid’s believe their dad helps whoever he can help and they grow up to emulate that or sm.

Anyway, if you’ve actually read my rant till the end, my apologies. I just can’t get IRITB out of mind T T

Like Sirius before them, his sons will realise who started the war, and that it wasn't fair, nor just. It's not a matter of ignorance here.

They're all trapped in a vicious circle where they know they're not great people, but they don't aim (nor were they raised) to be good people. They want to maintain what they are used to, they were told to 'protect' their family and their position, by whatever means necessary. So they will act when they feel threatened, even if the threat might not be real, only perceived.

Sirius knows he's not a good man, and he made peace with it. He still tries his best not to be the most horrible version of himself, he can still emphastise with others, and tries not to cause harm unnecessarily, but especially now that he has children, he would burn the entire world if he thinks his sons are in any danger, physical danger or just social danger.

Sirius does has inherent bias, and he's somewhat aware of his bigotry. He recognises it's not based in reality, but he can't help but feel that way. He isn't violent in his bigotry, he has no issues befriending muggles or muggleborns, or werewolves or vampires, he helps them if it doesn't inconvenience him, he wishes there was this utopia where they could all live in peace. But when push comes to shove, he'll chose 'his own' people, and he does believe wizard are superior to muggles (though he doesn't think purebloods are superior to muggleborns) and that, as a Black, his bloodline is better than anyone else's (including Lestrange or Malfoy. This isn't about pureblood supremacy, but Black supremacy. He takes extreme pride in his family, even if he knows they're crazy and often wrong in their attitudes).

Of course, Sirius is much less bigoted than his father has been, and OG Orion was less bigoted than his own father. Arcturus was more tolerant than his own father. They do 'evolve' with the times, just very, very slowly.

Sirius' sons were exposed to muggles by their father, but they were also exposed to muggle hate by their mother and virtually everyone else around them, and also Sirius' indifference when someone badmouths muggles.

Orion will never have issues eating muggle food or using muggle inventions, or listening to muggle music. He likes many muggle things, he thinks some are better than magical equivalents, but he'll always feel most comfortable where he was raised- in the magical world. He doesn't think muggles are animals, he is all too aware muggles are just as human and just as intelligent as wizards, however they don't have the same power as wizards, so they will never be equal. He, like Sirius, believes muggleborns are just as magical as purebloods, and they have the same right to practice magic. However, unlike Sirius, he thinks purebloods are 'stronger' than muggleborns by default. He believes the magical power is in the bloodline, and while muggleborns are obviously magical, their 'power' has been diluted by muggle interference. (Both Astrid and Arcturus are to blame for this).

Marvolo is less tolerant than Orion, but less vocal about it, too.

Both boys are raised to maintain the Black way, to represent the Black family, to 'hold the fort' and perpetuate their traditions, because they are the future of the family.

Yet neither is as hateful as Walburga or Astrid or Regulus, specifically because Sirius took them to muggle London often, they were raised with Harry and Dora, and they were also forced to play with Mary's daughters, whom they ended up liking.

Helix is the luckiest; being the third son, there's not such pressure on him, seeing as his chances of one day becoming Head of House are very slim. So no one bothers to indoctrinate him quite as thoroughly. He was born after Arcturus died, so he escaped his influence entirely. From all of them, Helix will be the most chill about blood purity, the most likely to make muggleborn friends on his own, the one to bring back home muggle items and get away with it because he's the baby of the fam and he can do no wrong. However, he is still raised to take pride in his bloodline, so he has that Black excellency mind set, too.

Overall, I would say at least the boys have no issues with half-bloods, because this was where Sirius made the most effort; he was determined to protect Harry, so none of his sons hold inherent prejudice against half-bloods, especially half-bloods raised by wizards. Dora, to them, is as Black as the rest, and they don't care at all her father is a muggleborn. She has Black blood and that's all that matters. Orion wouldn't hesitate to put her on the family tree.

If someone told them half-bloods are less magical, they'll call that person an idiot. If someone told them Harry, specifically, is less magical than a pureblood, they would beat the shit out of that person. However, they are aware Harry is not a Black. Orion wouldn't put Harry on the family tree.

Muggles are a threat to them, not on an individual level, but on a gender scale. Muggles wouldn't react well if they find out about wizards, as we all know. Set aside the religious aspect that would make muggles go crazy, but also the fear factor- let's be real, none of us would be too happy to know there are wizards around that can erase our memory, control us with the Imperius etc. We would not feel comfortable knowing there are eleven year olds out there that are handed a weapon of mass destruction. No muggle army would love the thought a 14 year old kid could potential annihilate an entire batalion of muggles with a wave of his wand.

All wizards, including muggleborns, believe muggles would react violently towards the magical world, if they ever discovered it.

So, to Orion, and Sirius, and Lucius, and Harry, and even Dumbledore, they do understand the inherent threat muggles pose.

They will always keep their distance, and Orion, like all Blacks before him since the inquisition, will think muggles as a whole are dangerous to their community, but on an individual level they can be fine. But, in his option, best not to mix with them, lessen the odds of discovery.

[bonefall]

Maybe i just joined the fandom space way later than everyone else, but i swear to god the WaCa fandom is only this up in arms about how "ugly" and "deformed" and "disgusting" Moonpaw is/will be as a result of incest because she is confirmed to be a chimera.

I never saw this same kind of behavior when Graystripes parents were mistakenly made siblings. Nor with Ashfur and Squirrelflight, even after the fandom pointed out that theyre half-uncle and niece. I didnt see it with Fernsong and Ivypool. I didnt see it with Birchfall and Whitewing. I didnt see it with Dewnose and Sorrelstripe.

"Maybe its because theyre first cousins?" But no, because Dustpelt and Ferncloud are uncle and niece, directly related to Robinwing.

I believe the fandom only cares about the fact the parents are related here because in their mind it gives them "an excuse" to be disgusting about her chimerism. With any other characters, it's just another instance of the writers being incompetent. With Moonpaw, "it's why she's so fucked up".

Yes, they hate her because she's a result of an incest, but I'm starting to become convinced they're only this vocal about it because of how she looks. They don't truly care she's inbred, they only care that they have "a good reason" to be ableist.

This being said as a victim of incestual abuse. Cousin and cousin, just like Thriftear and Bayshine.

Is this a bad take? Am I grasping at straws? Is this just an effect of avoiding the fandom for so long? SOS

You're not grasping at straws. I think you're right on the money, honestly.

Something a lot of people don't seem to understand is that a lot of bigotry is not overt. Ableists don't usually run around saying they want all disabled people to be thrown off cliffs (when they get to that point we're in SERIOUS danger), but they DO grab your wheelchair's handles, or speak over you when you're stuttering, or assume you're stupid or dangerous. It's usually implicit biases, and structural inequality.

This is why humor is so good at revealing these internal biases. You may not believe you're classist, you might have friends from Alabama, or Durham, or Wales, but what accent do you give your "stupid" character if you're telling a story? Why are the accents of "poor" regions associated with low intelligence?

So to bring it around-- why did we see the spike in "jokes" about "ugly inbreeds" for our very first character with a confirmed genetic condition?

I've been in and around this fandom since 2008, and I've NEVER seen another character get talked about like this. Mind you, Graystripe was the child of a sister and a brother for a LONG time, too, from 2009 to 2016 (maybe even later, I don't remember exactly when the modern tree was released). And no one did it with Bristlefrost, either, in spite of there being a pretty huge uproar about her parents being distantly related.

No one else. Just the chimera. "No wonder she looks like that" and "here she is with a hapsburg jaw" and "she'd be so slurs she'd be icky."

Characters without disability, no congenital conditions, nothing = "Ugh damn writers and their incompetence strikes again. God they need to get some fresh blood in here"

(moonpaw) = "EWW NO WONDER!! WHEN WILL THE GENE POOL BE BLEACHED"

There's also the incredible irony of the fact that like. moonpaw has a common tortie fur pattern and heterochromia. you don't even need to show an ableist an actual congenital condition, you can suggest a normal face is disabled and they will lose their minds. Bigotry rots your brain.

Also, just, as a closing note, as usual the bigot is incorrect. Chimerism and inbreeding have literally nothing to do with each other. There is no link between chimerism and inbreeding. they are once again confusing chimerism and mosaicism and trying to whine It's Just Biology because you told them their joke wasn't funny.

[the-mpreg-guy]

i do think dean was telling the truth about only going to lisa bc sam asked him too but whenever people use that line as an example of comphet (and i do understand why) they also conveniently leave out the bit in 5x17 where he tells lisa that shes his idea of happiness. no one forced him to do that

(i do think he fell out of love with lisa and hadnt realized this during season 5. and then realizes that suburbia isnt a good fit during season 6, but i dont think this excuses the fact that he went out of his way to tell her he wanted to be with her. he Chose to do that)

Dean fandom (and Cas fandom, but for other reasons I won't get into) in general has a hard time swallowing the fact that Lisa was someone Dean actively sought out (three times!) as someone he wanted as a partner (sexually, romantically, and then domestically in that order). His subconscious featured being on a date with her as a fantasy he was having during his last year alive. He spends half of s6 trying to make their relationship work because it's something he wants, and only steps back when she makes it clear that it's something that she doesn't want to fight for (for incredibly valid reasons on her part). His last visit on his funky s5 suicide run was to Lisa specifically.

But like. Nuance. It's not just Lisa, it's also the kid. It's not just Lisa, it's a way out of the life. It's not just Lisa, it's the peace and the domesticity and billion other things that Dean really really wants as an alternative to the fuckshow he's going through.

His dream fantasy very explicitly mentions that parenting Ben is something that he wants. He was UPSET and disappointed when he found out Ben wasn't his. So like, yeah it was also the full package here, not just Lisa and not just Ben. Both of them.

Whether Dean actually was in love with Lisa is up to interpretation, but I don't think we should be denying that Lisa was someone that Dean loved/liked. This might be the aromantic in me being stubborn about this, but not being in love with someone doesn't mean that you don't love them or want a life with them. And it doesn't mean that you're comphet, or settling, or in a gross weird heterosexual relationship with no love or passion that you should be getting out of asap. (Sorry, aro Dean is very precious and real to me.)

I don't exactly think that Dean "fell out" of love with her or the life he had with them, but I do think that by the end of s5 Dean had been through so much that the suburban lifestyle was incompatible. I mean, he's mentally 80 years old, he's been to actual literal hell and back, his entire bio family is dead, and his last family member's dying wish was for him to stay with Lisa so...like yeah. Dean wasn't lying when he said that he pictured himself happy with Lisa, but in my opinion he was picturing a happiness where he wasn't dealing with the fallout of untreated PTSD.

DeanLisa reminds me a lot of DeanCassie (and Destiel) in that it's always wrong place, wrong timing.

[russellsppttemplates]

hi I love your writing so much

can u write a blurb of max and Julia and fin where they got in trouble at school and reader and max got called called for a parent’s meeting

Cw: kid being bullied

Note: thank you ✨️

"Did you notice anything weird lately?", you asked Max as he parked the car, "nope, they have been fine, they don't complain about anything, I'm not sure why they did this", he said, holding your hand once you were out of the car and walking into the school. After a quick chat with the secretary at the front to let the principal know you were there, you were welcomed to the office, Julia and Finn sitting in the chairs, feet swinging since they couldn't reach the floor.

"Thank you for coming", the principal said, shaking your and Max's hand, "I think it's best if they explains why I called you here", he said, sitting down as you did the same, facing your kids.

"We were in the playground, and we noticed there was a group of boys being mean to Lyla - she's the new girl I told you about, mama -, and they were calling her those words you told us were mean and bad", Julia said, "so I went up to Finn and his friends because I thought they could help since the boys calling her names were from the year behind them", your daughter reasoned.

"I went there with my friends to talk and then they took our football", Finn continued, "because of that, I tried to go get the ball back and when the other boy wad dribbling away from me, I ran and I nudged the ball as he was kicking it so the ball went on the window and it shattered", Finn said.

By the way your husband was closing his fists, you figured he was thinking about the same things and worried about the same issue as you, a different worry from the principal it seemed.

"I know I shouldn't have done that, and I'm sorry that I broke the window", Finn turned to the principal, "and I'm sorry if we disappointed you, but we wasn't going to let them carry on!", Julia reasoned as you and Max looked at both of them.

"We have also spoken to the other kids' parents, you were the last ones. Fortunately, it was the cleaning supplies' closet and no ine was there, so no one got hurt", the principal attempted to gain your attention as you both kept looking at your kids.

"Both me and my wife appreciate you telling us, but the only issue here is that you're allowing this in your school. We can pay for the window if that is your problem, but I'd like you to reflect on the whole situation", Max stated calmly.

"As you can imagine, we don't always have control of everything", the principal excused himself.

"Me or my husband won't apologise for what happened. Like you said, no one was harmed, but you should look into paying more attention to Lyla, it's not the first time it was brought to my attention that the little girl is being bullied and no adult seems to be worried about it, when that is in fact where your worry should be", you followed, tone stern and convict.

Leaving the money they asked for the repair, you and Max split up to go with each kid to their classrooms and get their backpacks, "I'm sorry they were mean Lyla, my love, but you did well in defending hour friend, it's a shame they didn't listen to you", you said as you looked at Finn towards the end of the sentence.

"It's not fair", Finn complained, "this principal isn't nice, I don't like him", he pouted.

"Finn, sometimes things don't go our way, and we shouldn't say that about people, okay?", Max lectured as he drove home, squeezing your thigh ans whispering, "as much as I believe what I just said, I have to agree. Since they changed principal, the priorities have been a bit all over tha place", he commented, "might be a good time to reconsider schools", you noted.

(Thank you for submitting an ask ✨️)