#but it was Sarah and John being happy in front of the boys

[totalfreakingloser]

I had a S*pernatural dream against my will and it actually made me really sad. Not only did I have a dream about a fandom I stopped caring about after high school, but it made me sad. I’m never sleeping again.

[lolxdswag123]

Who’s the bad influence?

Rafe Cameron x reader

Authors note: I’m going to make this into a series, so this will just be part 1. Let me know what you think should happen next.

Warnings: drinking, mentions of coke, Rafe being normal Rafe (deserves a warning)

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I usually don’t bother with going to kook parties. Everyone is rude and stuck up and on coke.

My parents don’t believe me when I tell them this. They think the kook children would never act in such undignified ways. “Only the pogues could ever display such remarkable stupidity.” They would say.

It was a particularly short conversation that had taken place earlier that evening.

“I’m going to JJ’s.”

“Your pogue friend?”

“Yes.”

“No you’re not.”

“Yes I am.”

“You’ll go with your brother to the Cameron’s or you’ll say home.”

End of story. No further discussion.

So that’s how I ended up at my brother’s best friend’s house, standing in the corner with the sister, and watching the idiots do lines.

Sarah Cameron had recently become a good friend of mine. We had basically grown up with her family, and she actually used to date my brother, but then started hanging around my friends and fell for John B. I didn’t hold it against her, my brother could be a real idiot.

Her brother however was a different story. Rafe and I were the best of friends when we were little. When I became friends with the pogues, we went our separate ways. We still hangout when I’m over at their house, but it’s not like it used to be. He’s gotten more intense, lately. I know he hates the pogues, and he’s even beaten up my friend a few times.

Every time I ask him about it, he makes up some story about how they deserved it. I hated that. But one thing that I noticed was that he never showed that side in front of me. We could be around anyone, even someone that he hates the most, and he’d still act civil.

But, as soon as I turn my back, he loses it.

This is what occupies my mind as I stare at the brainless activities of my brother and Kelce, noticing Rafe standing to the side, drinking a beer. Usually he is involved with their ridiculousness, but not tonight. I wonder why.

“Hey,” Sarah pulls me out of my thoughts, “I’m gonna go to the chateau soon. You coming?”

I smile, happy to have an excuse to leave. “Absolutely.”

She smiles, “Good. I’m just gonna go change then we’ll go?” She asks, glancing at her phone.

I nod, turning my focus back to the unfortunate scene in front of me as soon as she walks away.

I take a sip of my drink. I rarely drink, but it’s hard not to when I come to things like this. There’s no way for me to enjoy myself, but the Whiteclaws take the edge off.

I stare blankly at the boys who were now setting up a beer pong table, when I feel a new presence next to me.

“Don’t tell me you and my sister are already scheming to leave.” Rafe says, looking down at me and taking another sip of his beer.

I shrug, not paying much attention, “Sorry.”

He turns to face me, trying to catch my eyes, “What, are you not having fun?”

I turn to face him and shrug again, “Can’t say I am.”

He looks down at me briefly, quirking his eyebrow and scanning the room before leaning down near my ear, “You’re not going to hang out with the pogues…” he pauses for a second and it almost sounds more like a statement than a question before he adds, “right?”

I nod, not making eye contact. I know how he feels about them.

He lets out a deep sigh, shaking his head and looking annoyed.

“You know…” he says, looking intently at me, “You know they really are a bad influence on you. You know that?” He pokes my arm with his pointer finger before taking another swig of his beer.

I scoff, looking back up at him, “You’re one to talk.”

He shakes his head, and just as I’m about to go for another drink of my Whiteclaw he grabs my wrist. I look over to see if anyone is watching. Of course they were too drunk to notice.

“Hey.” He says, “Now…” he can’t make eye contact, and I can see his brain working as he tries to get the right words out, “Now don’t go saying I’m a bad influence… okay? I don’t do any of that stuff around you.” He holds my wrist tighter and aggressively sets his beer on the counter, “Okay? I don’t do any of that stuff around you anymore. So I’m not a bad influence.”

I look at him skeptically, trying to figure out why he’s obviously trying to convince himself of this more than he’s trying to convince me.

I reach out to touch his hand softly, trying to help him calm down a little bit. I wonder if this is the side of him that people talk about. The side that I never see.

“Hey…” I say softly as he looks down at my hand on his, “Okay, you’re not a bad influence to me. You’re right.” I reassure him, nodding, but taking another sip of my Whiteclaw.

He nods slowly, smirking pridefully. “Yeah… yeah I know. But you’re not ditching me for the pogues.”

I shrug, smiling guiltily and backing away, knowing that Sarah could be down at any second and I will be out of here, “You’ve never had a problem with it before.”

He tenses his jaw, picking up his beer again and taking a drink before looking me up and down slowly and saying, “Yeah well you never go over there looking like that.”

I roll my eyes, looking down at my outfit. I was wearing a tight black tank top and black jean shorts. I guess it might’ve been a little showier than normal, but then again, why should he care?

“So? Maybe I wanted to look good.” I said defensively, annoyed that he had the audacity to comment on my outfit at all.

He nods, taking another drink before pointing to me and saying, “Well, you got that right.”

I roll my eyes, taking another step back and downed the rest of my white claw, but sneak a quick glance back at him. I didn’t know if it was the drinks or the fact that he was just so close to me- but he looked good tonight.

I walked to the fridge to grab another drink before I leave. As I turn back around to see what’s taking Sarah so long, Rafe is on my heels causing me to aalmost spill my new Whiteclaw all over him.

“Gosh, Rafe! What are you doing?” I exclaim, earning the attention of my brother and Kelce.

“You good?” Topper asks from across the room, giving me a questioning look with a thumbs up.

Before I could respond, Rafe speaks up, “Yeah, she’s good, Top.”

Topper nods and turns back to his intense game of beer pong.

I throw my hands up, about to reprimand him when he grabs my free hand and quickly pulls me around the corner before I could process what was happening.

“What are you doing?” I ask, as soon as we get into the other room- Ward’s study. Nobody is even allowed in here. I remember getting yelled at several times as a kid for being in here with Rafe.

“Don’t go.” Rafe demands, rolling his neck back as if I was causing him physical pain.

“I’m going to go.” I say, chugging some of my Whiteclaw and hoping that helps me get through this conversation.

“Not when you’re drinking like that.” He says, shaking his head firmly.

I laugh, “I’ve only had, like, 3. And your sister is driving. What’s the big deal, Rafe?” I ask, furrowing my eyebrows at him.

He sets his drink down on Ward’s desk, and I can see the gears turning in his head as his fists clench. He starts pacing back and forth, breathing heavier.

I immediately put my Whiteclaw down next to his beer and move to stand in front of him, grabbing his arms.

“Hey, hey.” I say softly, trying to make eye contact, “is everything okay? You can talk to me, Rafe.”

He takes a deep breath, throwing his head back and releasing his hands before clenching them again.

“You just don’t need to be around people like them, okay? Not when you’re drinking, and not when you’re hardly wearing any clothes.” He laughs at this like something is funny.

“Rafe.” I say gently, reaching down to his clenched hands and still trying to make eye contact.

He finally looks down at me, rolling his shoulders like he needs to let out the tension. We only make eye contact for a moment, before he shakes my hands away and grabs his beer off of Ward’s desk and finishes it.

“Rafe.” I say again, more firmly this time. “What’s going on with you?” I ask, concerned.

He rolls his shoulders again, leaning against Ward’s desk and says quite harshly, “You know what, you do whatever you want, Y/N. See if I care.”

I move closer again, not giving up. I place one of my hands on his, trying to calm him down. “Want me to put on a sweater or something?” I ask gently. “Will that make you feel better?”

He finally looks down at me, his harsh gaze breaking ever so slightly. “It’d make me feel better if you didn’t hangout with such lowlifes.” He shrugs.

“Okay, so I’ll just go like this then.” I say, giving up, and reaching around him to grab my Whiteclaw before turning to leave the room.

Just as I’m about to open the door to find Sarah, I hear a groan from behind me followed by an annoyed, “Here.”

I turn back to him to see him taking off his own sweater to hand to me. My jaw drops for a moment, feeling a small warmth in my stomach, before I regain my composure and walk to him to grab the sweater.

I take it from him and put it on over my clothes. It’s warm and big and it smells good.

“Better?” I ask, tauntingly, as soon as I have the sweater on.

“Much,” he nods, the smallest smirk playing on his lips.

He looks me up and down, and reaches up to gently tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. I can feel my cheeks on fire, so I take another sip of my Whiteclaw to try to cool down.

We stand there for a moment, and all I can think of is all of the good times we had as children in this house. It hadn’t been just the two of us for a while. It felt refreshing. I felt comfortable.

Before I could relish in the moment for too long, I felt my phone buzzing in my pocket. I took it out to see that Sarah was calling me.

I held up my phone for Rafe to see before saying, “I’d better go.”

He nods, standing up from where he was leaning, “Yeah.”

We walk out of the office together, in closer proximity than when we’d entered, heading back into the kitchen where everyone else was. I immediately found Sarah.

“I’ve been looking everywhere for you!” She said, not acknowledging her brother, “apparently JJ’s drunk again and he’s been asking for you.” She grabs my hand, ready to leave.

I catch Rafe’s eye as soon as she starts pulling me away, and I can tell he’s not happy that I’m leaving. I give him a weak smile.

“Where’d you get this sweater?” Sarah asks as we’re about to leave the room.

My eyes are still on Rafe and the last thing I see before we leave the party is a big smirk on his face as he’s opening another beer.

(Part 2)

[1shortnsweet]

Behind Closed Doors ~ JJ Maybank x reader (hurt comfort)

Warnings- swearing, parental abuse, kind of graphic description? mentions of blood and bruises, use of y/n, hurt comfort trope.

Summary- You and JJ didn’t get along. Everyone knew it. But when you find yourself in a painful situation, he’s the only one who’s there to help you.

Disclaimer- This is an old one I wrote from a request on AO3, so it’s not the best writing. Also not proofread. Enjoy what you can out of it!

: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:

Every night in the Outer Bank since you had moved here six years ago has gone differently. One night, your best friends wanted to throw a kegger, the next you couldn’t leave the house due to your far too noticeable bruising from your “beloved” father. Tonight was that second option.

You and JJ didn’t always get along as well as the rest of the friend group, but you both tolerated each other and that was all that mattered. Sure, you still bickered, but your friends loved you both, so you and JJ had to be civil. A few times he had noticed your absence, or the fact that you wore sweatshirts and cardigans in summer heat, but never asked you about it figuring you were just some freak. He once walked in on you crying over your father’s words, but you convinced him it was about a boy so you didn’t have to explain your home life.

“Why are you wearing a cardigan, it is seventy-four degrees outside y/n,” JJ barked at you from the front porch as he sprawled across the couch. You may not have gotten along with him, but it didn’t mean you couldn’t find him insanely attractive.

“Fuck off Maybank my house was cold,” you replied trying to cover the darkening bruises on your wrists from the fresh fight with your father and that morning.

None of your friends knew how your father was. They were never allowed at your house and you made sure to keep your distance most of the time if you had bruises. He was a well known businessman with a big reputation. Everyone who saw your family from the outside thought you were perfect, without a worry in the world. That obviously wasn’t the case within the walls of your house. Tonight, Sarah begged you to come over so she wasn’t the only girl. You reluctantly agreed, making sure that cardigan would cover the darkening bruise on your wrist. All five of you gathered in the backyard. John B made a bonfire and everyone was happy and smiling.

As the night went on, you lost track of time with your best friends. Next thing you knew, your phone was ringing beyond belief and your father’s name lit up the screen. The pit in your stomach had grown four times bigger almost immediately, knowing what was coming on the other end of the phone. Hesitantly, you picked it up, while also standing up and slowly walking away from your friends in hopes they wouldn’t hear. Although, JJ noticed the hesitancy in your actions and watched you move away from the group.

“Where the fuck are you y/n? It is ten pm and this house is not fucking clean, dinner was not made and your curfew is nine. Your mother would be so disappointed in you. I have done everything in my god damn power to please you and give you a good life. But this is how you treat me, like some sack of shit on the side of the road? Get your ass home now or there will be serious consequences.”

You winced at the tone of his voice, not being able to get a single word in. You knew what was coming for you at the other end of this argument. You slowly trudged back over to your smiling and laughing friends, seeing Sarah and Pope chasing each other with beers in hand.

“Hey guys, uh my Dad needs me home early tonight. Something about a party he’s throwing tomorrow, just needs some help setting up. See you guys tomorrow?” You had perfected the art of a good lie, convincing all four of them you’d see them in less than twenty four hours. Thankfully, they were heading to a party soon, so you wouldn’t have to worry about them following you.

You started the ten minute walk back home, praying to god he had passed out drunk by the time you walked in. It had started raining, leaving you soaked in a heavy cardigan, and your sopping converse. Hesitantly, you walked up to the front door and walked into your humble abode.

To no surprise, your father was passed out drunk leaning over the kitchen table with a vodka bottle in hand. Slowly and quietly, you tried to make it past him to reach the stairs to your bedroom. Just as you were about to head up, a rough grip pressed against your already sore wrist.

“Where the fuck do you think you’re going?” Your father said as he slowly stood up, towering over your already terrified figure. Within seconds, his free hand had balled into a fist and punched you so hard in the stomach, you fell and doubled over in pain on the tile floor. Followed by a kick to the gut, and his left fist pounding into your face too many times to count. You could taste and feel the blood in your mouth, seeing it drip from your nose and onto your clothes. He was yelling obscenities at you between hits, calling you a disappointment, reminding you of your dead mother and taking jabs at your friends. When you tried to get up and run upstairs, he grabbed the collar of your cardigan and yanked you backwards, resulting in you hitting your head on the refrigerator. This was the worst he had ever been, and you weren’t sure how much more you could take. Your father finally gave up when you stopped fighting back, leaving you to lay in your own blood on the floor.

After what felt like an eternity of you laying on the cold, hard floor trying to catch your breath, you moved. Without knowing what else to do, you bolted out the front door and headed back towards the chateau, knowing they all went to the pogue party miles away. You just needed to get away from that house, no matter where you ended up. It was now pouring, and you were limping from the pain, not even realizing tears were also streaming down your cheeks. Within minutes, you slowly walked up the front steps and into the chateau, closing the screen door behind you. Seeing as the house was dark and no cars were out front, you laid your back against the wall and tried to catch your breath before you were startled by a familiar voice.

“Why are you back, miss me too much?” You instantly recognized the voice as JJ’s, turning to see his silhouette on the pullout couch. Pulling yourself together just enough you mustered a weak reply.

“In your dreams Maybank,” you said, your voice cracking while saying his name. He was slowly standing up from his position on the couch, when he moved just slightly so the moonlight from the storm outside illuminated your face just enough for him to see.

“Holy fuck, what happened to your face y/n?” He said as he moved closer to you, flipping the lamp on as he passed it. He looked you up and down in worry, trying to figure out where all the blood on your sleeves and collar had come from. You had never seen JJ so concerned, as usually he was making fun of your outfit or starting a prank war.

“Y/n who did this?” JJ asked again, praying you would let him in. It was him asking those words that made your heart sting. Tears welled up in your eyes and he saw how afraid you looked in that moment. He lightly grabbed your hand and walked you to the bathroom down the hallway. JJ lifted you up as gentle as he could, causing you to wince at his touch against your bruising hips. He set you on the countertop and left the room to retrieve the first aid kit in John B’s bedroom.

“You wanna tell me what the hell happened or do you wanna sit in silence? This might sting a little by the way,” JJ said as he pressed the washcloth to the bleeding cut on your forehead. You slightly winced from the pain and pulled back. You looked into his soft eyes already looking back at you, and the tears welled up again. You finally let them fall from your eyes, feeling the urge to tell someone, anyone what was going on. You knew about JJ’s dad and what he did, so you didn’t want to pour your problems onto him, but it all came flowing out of you. Tears were falling, your heart was racing and your breath hitched.

“It was my father. It’s usually never this bad but he was drunk and lost his shit on me today for not being home on time and then dinner wasn’t made, and he got drunk. I didn’t know where else to go and I couldn’t stay at my house, I was too afraid,” you spewed as JJ tried to patch you up and wipe the blood from your face. He stared at you in horror, trying to get you to calm down before you hurt yourself even more.

“Y/n hey chill. Hey stop, listen to me okay? I’ve got you alright? He’s not here. It’s just us. He’s not gonna get to you anymore. I know how this goes more than anyone. Just let me clean you up and we’ll go from there okay?”

You nodded at him, sniffling and catching your breath. JJ finished cleaning the blood from your body and left the bathroom. You got down from the counter and looked at yourself in the mirror, seeing your black eye already forming and the cuts from your father’s ring down your cheek. JJ came back with one of his t-shirts and a pair of your sweatpants you left at the chateau last week. He helped you change into them and you walked behind him to the spare bedroom. You crawled into the bed, grimacing at the soreness already flowing through your body. JJ covers you in the blanket, and started to head for the bedroom door.

“JJ?” Your voice sounded weak as you said his name from the bed. He turned back to look at you with sad eyes. “Can you stay?”

He nodded and closed the door behind him. Silently, he crawled into the bed beside you and turned to look at your bruising face in the moonlight. You both just sat there in silence, some kind of unspoken understanding between the two of you. After what felt like an eternity, you drifted off to sleep with the rain still coming down outside the window.

Hours later, you woke up in an unfamiliar, warm embrace. Turning your head, you realized you were wrapped up in JJ’s arms under the blankets. His sandy hair was messy from the pillow and his skin was being illuminated from the sunlight through the window. You two may have fought almost daily, but something about this was comforting. Slowly, he opened his bright blue eyes and looked down at you.

“Why did you help me? You don’t even like me, JJ,” You asked him, as you untangled yourselves and he stood up from the bed. He walked out into the kitchen where you could see Pope passed out on the couch from the doorway. You were truly pondering this question, given that JJ has never voluntarily spent time with you before.

“Boys pick on the girls they like, y/n. Besides, no one was ever there for me when I needed it. It sucked. Put this on your face, you look like shit,”he replied as he threw an ice pack at you from the doorway. He watched you place it over your eye, wincing from the pressure on your bruise. You smiled slightly at him, unlocking some new level of comfort between the two of you. He smiled back and walked out of the room. Shit, maybe you liked him too. You didn’t even realize he had walked back into the room before he spoke.

“Your secrets safe with me y/n. Just don’t tell anyone I like you,” he said smirking at you from the foot of the bed. You threw the pillow behind your head at him, even though it hurt to move that much at once.

You knew he would keep your secret, and you also knew JJ Maybank had a secret crush on you. Both things could work to your advantage.

[callitwh4ty0uwant]

Summer nights!

Summary; Y/n discovers that her family has offered her and the Pogues the summer at the beach house… and of course the group had to accept that offer.

Florida!!! Masterlist: Summer masterlist!

jj Maybank x fem! Reader

Warnings - smoking, feelings, JJ being an asshole, sexual innuendos, swearing, alcohol, unestablished relationship, angst, fluff.

Outerbanks was beautiful to say the least, she had a beautiful house, amazing friends and an amazing view to look at, no she didn’t mean the sunset and sunrise she saw ever morning she meant JJ Maybank, gorgeous, dumb blonde, flirt, and amazing abs.

But it was days like these she loved seeing JJ shirtless out on his board surfing, with John B, the girl had some news to share, but she could not Keep her eyes off of the blonde boy that was walking out from the water towards her, Sarah, pope and Kiara.

“Okay so..uh.. I..” she trailed on as the boy sat down beside her “my dad says, he can’t make it this year so my family isn’t going, but he offered us to go to our beach house in Florida this year for the full summer” she said making the two girls eyes go wide as the jumped up im excitement “so what do you say!” She asked making the girls nod in agreement.

“Yes!” The two girls brought the girl into a hug squeezing her “when do we leave!” Sarah asked “Sunday” she spoke making the girls squeal in excitement.

But Sunday came quicker than expected, she wasn’t complaining though, she loved her friends and that beach house with her whole heart.

The suitcases were tough to fit in, as the group piled into her car the airport was the next stop as it was 4:35am in the morning and she was tired as hell to drive all that way to Florida.

The plane ride journey was rough JJ had insisted to sit next to her, which was odd cuz he had never shown that much interest in her before. Turns out the big tough guy he claimed to be was scared of flying, she talked him through it though.

“I need to piss, and a coffee” she said as the group got off the plane and made their way to baggage claim “brb” she said after spotting the toilets.

After finishing her business she walked back out spotting the group, with her bags and drinks “for you m’lady” JJ said handing her the coffee with a smile on his face “thank you kind sir” she laughed putting on a British accent that was half-assed

After getting the car that was already pre-booked for the summer they made their way to the beach house, she was so excited to show her friends her happy place, if someone asked what she thought was home? She would always go back to this place in her mind, even when she was sad or upset.

“Home sweet home” she said as she pulled up into the driveway. They got out of the BMW the Pogues stood infront of it admiring the big house that stood in front of them “and why didn’t you invite us sooner?” John B exclaimed as he took the multiple suitcases out of the trunk.

“Never crossed my mind” she shrugged pulling on her suitcases to the front porch “we’re gonna have to double up by the way not enough rooms, it looks gigantic but there’s only three bedrooms upstairs” she spoke as the Pogues came up behind her as she unlocked the door.

“I call my parents bedroom!” She yelled as they rushed upstairs noticing JJ standing behind her “guess I’m stuck with you then.. huh?” She laughed as he followed up upstairs “what do you mean stuck with me” he laughed placing his hand on his chest in offence as he opened the double bedroom doors that led to her parents bedroom.

“God y/n this is room is bigger than my house” he mumbled as he threw himself on the California king bed “my parents like treat themselves when their on vacation, I have king bed” she said tiredly copying JJ as she left the suitcases at the door.

“This room makes the house look bigger than it actually is, it was so expensive for only three bedrooms” she groaned pulling herself up “and I swear to god JJ if you pull any of your shenanigans” she pulled her self up from the bed removing the pillow from behind his head “I will make you sleep on the couch” she said while smacking his face with the soft fabric.

“Now I’m gonna go get a bikini on while you unpack your shit okay?” She said as he gave her one of his charming smiles as she dragged her suitcases to the bathroom, a funny warm feeling over taking her body as she laid the suitcase out.

ੈ✩‧₊˚

“KIE, SARAH, WE HAVE TO GO TO THE STORE TO GET FOOD!” The girl said poking her head out the bedroom making the girls groan as the jet-lag was taking over all of them “c’mon!” She yelled as they followed her downstairs and back into the car.

The drive was short to the nearest Walmart picking out alcohol, and whatever junk food they could find, making sure to pick up sunscreen, and more cosmetics products. Not that they needed anymore anyways, their cart was full as they pushed it to check-out.

Five bags, is what they left with “I think we left with more than what we needed” she laughed as they pulled up back to the beach house “time to get this par-ty started!” Sarah jumped as they made their way inside spotting the boys lounging on the sofa.

The boys had jumped as soon as they saw the six-packs of beer being took out the bag and placed on the kitchen island.

The bathing suit she had put on before the girls left was handy as she slid her shorts off, she could a familiar pair of eyes on her as she slid the glass door open the warm air hitting her body as she looking around the familiar scenery.

She took a deep breath smelling the fresh salty air as she heard John B jump into the pool, pope jumping in next, she shook her head a smile appearing on her face as she was next to jump in.

“I hate saying this, but I can’t believe how much I missed this place” she said swimming over to the clear glass edge of the pool that looked out onto the beach “this place is so beautiful” Kiara said making the other Pogues agree.

ੈ✩‧₊˚

THE NIGHT HAD SLOWLY CAME AND THE SUN WAS SETTING AS THE POGUES LOUNGED IN THE HOT TUB laughing at whatever joke john B had made, the group was drunk but she wasn’t to drunk to notice JJ’s lingering gaze on her as he made his was closer to her everytime he got back into the hot tub after going out to get another beer.

“I genuinely can’t believe you ever complained about this place y/n” pope said making the girl roll her eyes “it’s even worse with family, believe me” her head falling back “anyways” she sleepily said “im gon’ call it a night” she said standing up almost falling over in the process, JJ’s hand catching hers as she got out.

“Me too, this one’s heavily intoxicated” he laughed “so are you” she hit his bare chest as she got out “let’s get you to bed” he said pulling her inside “ ‘m too sleepy” she slurred as she made her way upstairs.

“How am I more drunk than you?” She drunkenly laughed as she opened the door to the bedroom “‘m going for a shower” she huffed making her away into bathroom “g’night Jay” she slurred.

ੈ✩‧₊˚

Masterlist



[moremaybank]

I'LL GO ANYWHERE YOU GO — j.m

pairing jj maybank x fem!reader

summary your best friend jj gives you a token to show you how much he treasures you.

warnings none, just soft!jj with hella fluff because i said so

jj masterlist

you stood in front of your mirror, desperately trying to fasten the clasp of your necklace but failing miserably. 

“you almost ready? the kegger’s about to— oh. need a hand?” jj asks, walking into your room and tossing his backpack on your bed carelessly. 

“actually, yeah. this clasp is tricky as hell.”

he chuckles wordlessly, striding over to you so he can help. or so you thought. jj takes the necklace out of your hands and discards it on your dresser, and your brows furrow in response.

“hey,” you frown, “what are you doing? i need help putting it on, not taking it off.”

“i have a surprise for you,” he replies, as if he isn’t up to no good. he reaches into the back pocket of his distressed shorts and pulls out a small black velvet box. he extends his hand to you, but you give him a puzzled look.

“oh god, what did you do?”

he chuckles, “why are you just assuming that i’ve done something?”

“because you’re you. i know you way too well, and at this point, if you’re giving me something in a velvet-wrapped box, it means you’ve done something bad. possibly illegal.”

“not true. i’m doing this out of the goodness of my own heart.”

you stare at him warily, not sure what to make of whatever the blonde boy is handing you. he looks a little too eager for your liking, and you’re not sure if you should be nervous or aiding and abetting an escape from the law. but then he flashes you a grin, his signature dimple on full display, and you know you can’t resist him.

“come on. i worked my ass off to get you this. even had the store put it on hold,” he tells you. 

“jj, how many times do i have to tell you that i don’t want you spending your hard-earned money on me? it should be spent on you.”

“princess, i only need three things in life to be happy; weed, beer, and you.”

“so you’ve given up on food and water?” you question, cocking your head at him with a smart-ass look.

“alcohol and the devil’s lettuce will sustain me for as long as god intends, pretty girl. now will you open the box?” he asks, placing the small box into your hands. 

“you’re not proposing to me, are you? ‘cause if you are, you should buy me dinner first.”

“for the love of all things holy, will you just open it?”

you huff a sigh, “fine.” 

you open the lid, and your eyes instantly land on a breathtaking necklace. the pendant was of the letter ‘j,’ and it reflected off the sunlight beaming into your bedroom. 

“jj…” you breathe, not being able to help the tears from welling up in your eyes. “i— it’s beautiful. you sure you didn’t steal it? be honest,” you deflect. you try your hardest not to read too much into it, but you can’t help it. the thought of jj, your jj, giving you a necklace with the initial of his first name to take the place of your current everyday necklace makes your heart swell. it’s like carrying him with you, right next to it, everywhere you go.

“i swear, princess. i didn’t steal it. i saw it a couple of months ago when i was with john b and sarah in some kook store over on figure eight, and i decided to save up for it so i could give it to you. consider it an early birthday present for my favourite girl.”

“j, my birthday isn’t for six months. and it’s not that i don’t appreciate it, but you shouldn’t have had to pinch pennies to give me this. you work so hard, and you deserve every cent you earn.”

he sets the small jewelry box aside on your dresser and takes your hands into his, thumbs brushing over your knuckles as he gazes deeply into your eyes. the most beautiful eyes he’s ever seen.

“listen. you’ve given me everything. a place to rest my head when i need it, the most beautiful heart i’ve ever known, and my favourite person in the world. you deserve this and so much more. plus, you’re my best friend, and i can spoil you any time i goddamn please.”

you blush, avoiding his gaze as you stare down at your intertwined fingers. “you are so sweet, y’know that? too much for your own good.”

“i try,” he beams at you but shrugs his shoulders casually as if to say it isn’t a big deal.

“you succeed,” you say. “will you put it on for me?” 

he smiles so wide that you can tell how much you and the personal piece of jewelry mean to him. “of course, pretty girl. turn around.”

you do as he says, facing your back to him and gathering your hair so you can move it out of the way. jj carefully removes the necklace from the miniature jewelry box and places the chain over your collarbone as he fastens it behind your neck. his fingers linger for a moment as he moves to retreat, and you feel a warmth, his warmth surge through you as he touches you. goosebumps erupt all over your skin as you feel the electricity from his hands course throughout your body.

you both look at your shared reflection in the mirror, and your gaze locks on his ocean-blue eyes. jj offers you a smile that’s impossible not to return as you both stand together so close. you can practically feel the quick thump-thumping of his heart against the skin of your back as he begins to blush.

his hands move to your shoulders. “now you’ll always have a piece of me with you. it’s cheesy as hell, but you’re destined for greatness. i believe that. so, no matter where you go, what you conquer, or how far you are from me, i’ll always be there for you. i’ll always protect you.”

“i love you, j,” you breathe. you turn back to face him. “you know that if i ever get out of here, i’m bringing you with me, right? i’m not me without you,” you mumble into his shoulder after throwing your arms around his neck and pulling him into a tight embrace.

of course, you mean it more than platonically, but the words are true to your heart either way. your love for him constantly overtook your being, but it was to the most significant degree at this moment. you’re desperate to ensure that he knows how much you appreciate him. jj has gone through so much of his life thinking he wasn’t enough for anyone that crossed his path, but that was never the case for you. he always came through, no matter when you needed him. especially then. 

“i’ll go anywhere you go,” he whispers. his hand cradled the back of your head as he held you to him, instantly sighing in contentment at how close the two of you were. “and i love you too, my pretty girl. so much more than you’ll ever know. and i hope that someday i can prove it to you.”

little did he know that he proved the strength of his adoration for you every day.

jj tag list (join here!): @maybankslover @kittyqrt @v-velvetykisscs @hobiibobii @rafesdior @fool4him @hemogloban @pankhoeforlife @rafesmuse @lyn07 @houseofperfecttaste @qualitybelieverflower @dudenhaaa27 @princessbetsy123-blog @tori-loves1 @alexxavicry @kenzi-woycehoski @elijahssuit @skydisneylover @adoreyouusugar @obxjjpouge @conniesanchor @baby-maybank @angel037 @wotfasked @rafelover

[genesis-p4l-love]

Found Family || OBX Fanfic

Pairings: jjxoc!sister, platonic!Pogues, hurt/comfort, ANGSTY

Warnings: abuse, profanity, 3.8k words (forgive me...)

Summary: JJ's little sister wants to go to a party with her brother's friends. But she doesn't realize there might be someone to stop her from doing that.

DISCLAIMER: OC has autism/displays symptoms of autism. Enjoy!

The sun blinds me as I stare at the open water. I am sitting on the bow of the Pogue, letting Sarah braid my hair. It would be relaxing if JJ was not the kind of person he is. “Watch out!” My brother yells, running past us and cannonballing into the water. Sarah and I yelp as the water splashes us. 

“JJ, that was rude!” I say as his blonde head bobs up from the water.

“You should be more worried about them,” JJ replies, smirking. Just as he says that, John B runs past us, front flipping into the water, followed by Pope, who dives. “Now my splash isn’t so bad, is it sweetie?” I stick my tongue out at him.

“Okay, you’re all getting it now,” says Kiara. “You got my phone wet!” Sarah, Kiara, and I jump in simultaneously, creating a splash that covers all the boys.

“There,” I say as we resurface. “Now we are even.” Then I get a splash in the face. I yelp and back away.

I glare at Pope, who snickers at me. “If only you could see your face right now,” he says through giggles. 

“I cannot wait to see your face when I drown your sorry butt,” I reply, shoving Pope underwater. That starts a war.

Just as I get overwhelmed, JJ calls out from the top of the Pogue, “Hey, ladies, we’ll offer you a truce. A peace treaty if you will,” he says, “But first, one more splash. Heads up!” He flips and cannonballs into the water with a splash to end all splashing.

“Oh yeah, I heard about that,” John B says, sitting beside Sarah. “I’d be happy to go.”

“Heyward said he didn’t need me tonight, so I’m free,” Pope smiles as he grabs a beer from the cooler and tosses one to John B.

“Sounds good,” says JJ, taking a beer from the cooler. “It’s not like I’d be doing anything else. Lynn, you down?”

“Yes, but I would have to stop by our house to get my dress,” I reply as JJ hands me a can of soda.

“You could borrow one of mine again, sweetie,” Kiara quickly says. She and the other Pogues know how my father can be whenever I am around and probably want to keep me from him.

“Thanks, Kiara, but I would really like to wear my dress tonight,” I say, patting her shoulder. “I have been borrowing yours and Sarah’s dresses too much, and they do not fit me. Besides, I need some things from there anyway.” I hop off the boat and step onto the dock, where I put on JJ’s t-shirt, my glasses, and my sneakers. 

“Oh, muffin,” I hear JJ sing. He picks me up by my waist before I can turn around. Despite being 14 years old - only two years younger- I am still small enough that JJ can pick me up like a ragdoll. 

“JJ, stop it!” I exclaim. He puts me down but does not let go. He stays standing behind me, his chin resting on my shoulder. “JJ, what are you doing?” I ask.

“Don’t go, Lynn,” He pleads. “You know how Dad is around you, and I don’t want you getting hurt.”

“Relax, JJ,” I tell him, attempting to pry his hands off me. “It will be in and out. He will never know I was there. I promise.” He sighs, but he lets go of me. I pick up JJ’s brown pack.

“Can I at least come with you?” he asks. I nod with a smile. “We’ll be right back!” JJ shouts over his shoulder.

We take JJ’s bike to Dad’s house. The second we arrive, JJ stiffens up. The place is old outside and worse inside for several reasons. I remember how JJ looked after his last interaction with Dad. The night he got the hot tub. It was one of the few times I have seen him cry. I suggest, “What if I go in by myself?”

That snaps JJ out of his daze. He glares at me, “Carolynn Destiny Maybank, you must be insane if you think I’m gonna let you go in alone,” he says.

I roll my eyes. “Well, first,” I reply, “the full name was unnecessary. Second, you seem like you do not want to go in there, and I do not blame you. But I have to.”

JJ sighs. “Fine,” he mutters. “Please, don’t do anything stupid,” JJ says, kissing my forehead.

“Last I checked, I am the only smart one in the family,” I reply, patting JJ’s cheek. JJ chuckles. “I will be back.”

“Call me if you need me,” JJ calls after me. I turn around and give him a thumbs up.

Upon entering, I see cans and bottles strewn across the floor. “Dad?” My voice echoes through the house. No answer. I run to my room and retrieve my dress. I grab some more outfits before sneaking into JJ’s room. He has been wearing the same two shirts all week, so I assume he will appreciate the favor. Once I have enough clothes in the bag, I zip it up and start to leave. Then, I see my father walking in from the back porch.

Dad stares at me, and a drunken smile appears on his face. I can smell the alcohol wafting off him. Even at this distance, the smell makes me dizzy. “C.D.,” he says. I hate that nickname. “You’re back. What happened this time?”

“Nothing. I have been staying at John B’s house, Dad,” I reply, fidgeting with the backpack strap.

“I didn’t ask where you’re staying,” Dad says, grabbing a bottle of who-knows-what from the fridge and slamming it closed. “I don’t care. Figured you’d be back when you wanted something.” He saunters over to me, grips the hand that holds JJ’s backpack, and lifts it so the bag is at eye level. “This is your brother’s, ain’t it?”

I quickly shake my head. The bottle slips out of Dad’s hand and shatters on the floor, cutting my legs. My hand moves to cover my ears but stops just before reaching them. I put my hand down before Dad notices. “No, I was just grabbing some things,” I say. I slowly back away from Dad. “I have everything I need, so I will get out of your-”

“Hang on now, girly,” says Dad, pulling me back toward him. “You think you can show up in my house and take whatever you want from me? You haven’t been here in weeks.” He steps forward, shoving me into the wall. “With your ‘condition,’ I’m surprised you even made it here. You think you can do whatever you want, C.D.?” He grabs my shirt and slams me into the wall. “You think?” He shouts.

“Dad, please stop shouting,” I beg.

Dad punches my cheekbone, knocking my glasses off. I watch the bridge of my glasses break in half against a table corner. “Answer me!” He yells, his face inches from mine.

I want to answer, but I cannot make myself talk. I am paralyzed.

“Now you wanna stay quiet, huh?” Dad growls. He punches me, and I let out a choked yelp. “You disrespectful rat!” I try to run for the door, but he grabs my braid and pulls me back.  Dad punches my jaw, and I feel blood in my mouth. He slams me back to the ground and continues to hit me. 

I scream my head off, but Dad ignores me. I kick his leg, and he falls to the floor with a loud THUD. “JJ!” I shout. I try to get up again, but a glass bottle flies at my face. I duck, but as the glass hits the floor, the broken shards cut through my clothes. “JJ!” 

My brother bursts into the house and immediately lunges for Dad, shoving him away from me. “Leave her alone, she’s just trying to get her shit!” Dad does not answer, instead punching JJ in the face. He stumbles back but tries to go for Dad again. Dad presses his boot to JJ’s chest and kicks him away. I hear a BANG and see JJ’s head bounce off the floor as he lands on his back. JJ lies there, unmoving and quietly groaning. I start to sob when Dad lifts me off the ground by my hair and shoves me out onto the porch. He punches my ribcage several times before starting to strangle me. I try to hit him, but he only tightens his grip. 

“You don’t deserve to be coming back here,” He points at JJ, “‘Specially not for your punk, dirtbag brother, you ungrateful-” He is interrupted as JJ tackles Dad, knocking them both off the porch and onto the grass below. And he punches Dad relentlessly.

JJ looks at me for a second as if realizing I’m there, and that is all it takes for Dad to shove JJ off him and come storming back up the porch to me. “NO!” I scream. I scramble backward, searching for something to defend myself with. My hand finds something cold and metallic, and impulsively, I swing it at Dad. It hits him hard enough to knock him to the ground beside me. I look at my hand and realize I swung a crowbar at my father. I drop it with a clang and stumble to my feet. JJ runs up to our father, kneeling beside him.

“JJ,” I whimper, “please tell me he is not dead. Tell me I did not murder our father.” I see him press two fingers to Dad’s neck.

“Not dead,” he mutters. “You just knocked him out.” JJ tilts Dad’s head, revealing a cut on his cheek. “He’ll be fine. He probably just hit his head on the floor.” JJ grabs me. He holds my face, perhaps trying to see how bad Dad punched me. I pull away. 

“Can we just-” I start but do not finish before reentering the house.

“Hey, I found your glasses, muffin,” I hear JJ say as I step into the front yard. JJ follows me outside but stops me before I can get on the bike. “Hey, wait, won't the engine hurt your ears? Especially after what just happened?” he asks. I realize he's right, and begin walking beside him.

However, after a few minutes of silent strolling, I collapse. I hear a distant, screaming voice. I am sure it is Dad, angry at me for hitting him. Somehow, I am numb despite all the pain that is still fresh in my body. A pair of arms grab me from behind and pin my arms so I cannot move.

 I shriek at the top of my lungs in desperation. “NO! Get off of me!” I struggle as the arms lift me off the ground, and I am still screaming. Then I am sobbing. I get myself on solid ground and turn and face the stranger. Not letting myself give up, I start to hit him. Everything is slightly fuzzy, so I am unsure who I am trying to attack. I feel two hands grab either side of my face. But they are gentle hands. Not like Dad’s.

Then I hear a soft voice. “Hey, look,” the voice says. “It’s me.” I stare into a pair of familiar icy blue eyes. Not Dad’s green eyes. “It’s me,” JJ repeats in a whisper. 

“What?” I mumble.

“It’s okay,” he says.

I look over JJ’s shoulder and around us, but there is no one. “But Dad- I thought- he- I-” I give up on trying to talk and collapse into JJ out of exhaustion. I take a deep breath and feel the unmistakable scent of cedar wood and saltwater on him. The smell of home. I squeeze him tightly, and his hands rest on my back. 

 He rubs my back, calming my nerves and quieting my sobs. “It’s okay, muffin,” he says.  “I’ve got you. I’ve got you.” I let go, and he looks me over. He takes off his red hat and puts it backward on my head. He gives me a kind smile. “Let’s go home, yeah?” I nod, and JJ plops me onto the bike. He still refuses to turn the engine on, instead pushing the bike home. We arrive at the Château and John B stands out on the porch, seemingly waiting for us. JJ helps me off the bike and lets me cling onto his front with my legs around his torso and my arms around his neck. I bury my face in the crook of his neck as he carries me to the front porch.

“Hey, John B,” JJ says in a sing-song tone as we pass him.

“Hey, JJ,” John B mimics him. “I figured something happened when you guys didn’t come back.” He leads us inside. I lift my head to see Sarah on the couch and Kiara and Pope seated at the table. I smile at them all.

“Hey, guys,” Sarah says. “We missed you.” Everyone but me gives a small laugh. 

“Yeah, I missed being the only one with a brain cell, Lynn,” Pope laughs. I try to laugh before giving a slight wince at the pain in my ribs. I lay down on a pile of pillows beside Sarah. She has the first aid kit and immediately starts looking me over. Kiara strolls over, and she and Sarah gently remove my shirt, leaving me in my bikini top and jean shorts. Pope glances at me and immediately turns, facing away from me.

Sarah winces, and Kiara covers her mouth with her hands. I prop myself up on my elbow and glance down at the marks my dad left on my chest and abdomen. I sense the black eye I will likely have tomorrow morning and the cuts from the glass on my face and neck. I glance at my shirt in my hands. Oh wait, it is JJ’s shirt. And it has blood stains spattered on it from my bleeding nose. Tears fill my eyes.

“Do you want a hug, sweetie?” Sarah asks as I sit up. I nod as I cover my face with the shirt. “I’m so sorry, Lynn,” Sarah says as she hugs me. “You don’t deserve this.” I look at John B and JJ, who look just as horrified as they look furious. Especially JJ. His fingers tangle in his hair, and he gets a determined look on his face. He turns around and steps out the door.

“Where are you going, JJ?” John B asks.

“To teach that old man not to touch my baby sister,” JJ replies darkly. I hear the porch door swing open and promptly slam shut. I quickly follow him, supporting myself on John B. I walk onto the porch, where I see JJ about to get on his bike. He looks at me just as the engine turns on. The loud noise bothers me, so I press my hands over my ears. He quickly turns it off. "Get inside, muffin," he says

“JJ, wait,” I say. He pauses and glances up at me. “Do not do this. Do not leave me.” I try to walk down the porch steps towards JJ, but my legs give out, and John B reels me in. JJ hesitates. “JJ, I need you.”

JJ glumly returns to the porch, slowly wraps his arms around me, and nuzzles my shoulder. I smooth down his hair and let him cry into my shoulder. We stay in the hug for a while, and JJ progressively squeezes me tighter until I yelp in pain. “Sorry,” he mutters. 

I rub his back. “It is okay,” I whisper. I take him inside, and we sit on the couch with Sarah. She gently tends to my cuts and cleans me up as JJ holds my hand. Whether it is for his sake or mine is a mystery. 

“You’re lucky,” says Sarah. “It’s not that bad. Everything’s just bruised, nothing too serious. I think you should be careful moving around because there are a lot of bruises. But you’ll be alright in about a week, and the pain should go away in a few days.” 

I give her a small smile. “Thanks, Sarah,” JJ says. Sarah nods and puts the first-aid supplies away. JJ wraps his arms around my stomach, pulling me onto his lap. The coldness of his rings provides some relief against the pain in my stomach. “How was that party?” JJ asks the Pogues.

The group looks at him, confused. “We never went,” Pope says. “We couldn’t go without you guys.” 

“Oh,” I mumble. “Sorry.”

“No, absolutely not,” John B says firmly. “Don’t you dare be sorry. If we hadn’t been here, who would clean you up? Not JJ.” JJ deadpans at John B, and we all laugh at him.

“Besides, it’s just one party,” Kiara adds. “You are more important than a party. And there will be other parties that we can go to together.”

“Hey, Lynn, where are your glasses?” Pope asks.

My smile falters. “Dad broke them.”

JJ reaches into his pocket and pulls out the clear, broken frame. “Pretty bad,” he says.

“It’s not that that bad. I can tape these up if you want, Lynn,” offers Pope, taking the glasses.

“Yes, please,” I say gratefully.

“Yeah, no problem,” Pope says, grabbing some duct tape from the table. A few minutes later, he hands them back to me. It is obvious that they have been taped, but at least I can wear them without them falling apart. I put them on, and everyone instantly becomes more clear-cut.

“Thank you, Pope!” I exclaim.

After that, the Pogues and I play games for the rest of the night. Eventually, Kiara and Pope go home, and John B and Sarah go to Sarah’s house. By midnight, I am in my bedroom in the Château. It is dark except for the moonlight coming through the window. I am cozily sitting in JJ’s brown jacket, doodling in my notebook instead of sleeping. I hear a light knock on my door. I open the door, and JJ is outside in his dark blue tank top that says “Pelican Marina: Kildare Island” and gray shorts.

“I can’t sleep,” he says sheepishly. “Can I come in?” I lightly laugh but let him come into my room. He strolls in and flops face down onto my bed.

“Well, I see why you could not sleep, JJ. You had to get all the ‘dramatic’ out of you,” I say as I shut the door. I hear a muffled laugh. JJ rolls onto his back, leaving plenty of space for me to sit beside him. As I sit, JJ sits upright. 

“Do you wanna go down to the docks?” JJ asks. 

“In the middle of the night?” I ask him. JJ shrugs in response. “Sure.” JJ drags me down to the dock and helps me climb into the Pogue. “Are we going somewhere?”

“No,” he replies. “I just wanted to come out here with you.” I shake my head but laugh. I sit on the bow of the boat, and JJ joins me. JJ wraps one arm around me, resting his head on mine. I pull JJ’s other hand into my lap and fiddle with his rings. “I swear, I’ll kill him,” JJ mutters.

“JJ, seriously?” I ask, pulling away from his grasp. “Do we have to talk about this?” I move and stand a few feet away from JJ. “Just let it go, dude.”

“He hurt you again, Lynn,” JJ growls, tears glossing his eyes. “He deserves it.”

“I know!” I shout. I stop myself before I get angry and lean over the boat’s rim, staring at the water.  “I do not want to talk about it.”

“Don’t you want him to get what’s coming to him?” JJ presses.

“Of course I do,” I reply, tears welling back up. “I hate how Dad treats us, especially because of how I am. But I hurt him tonight and hated it. Do you think that is gonna make anything better for us? What do you think will happen if you beat our father to death?”

Out of the corner of my eye, I see JJ lower his head, and his hair falls over his face. “I’d probably end up in juvie,” he whispers. “But you got hurt because of him. And I guess that’s partially my fault, huh?” I turn to him in confusion. “I let you go in alone, and I couldn’t get in fast enough to keep him from hurting you. I mean, look at you.” He points at my bruises. “You’re all banged up. I’m just angry.” 

“Angry at Dad?” I ask. “Or angry at yourself?” 

JJ stares at me. “I think you know that it’s both,” he says.

“I am mad at Dad too, JJ,” I tell him, walking back over and taking his hands. “He should not get to do this to us all the time. But you did not make him hurt me. That was him. Taking it out on Dad will not change that. If anything, he might hurt you again, and I do not want that.” I lift his chin, and he stares at me, his jaw clenched and tears staining his cheeks. “Please, do not leave me, JJ.” 

He relents, “Okay.” I smile in relief. He pulls me onto his lap, and I play with his hair, humming a random tune.

“Hey, Lynnie?” JJ asks. 

“Hmm,” I mumble, somewhat spaced out. 

“I noticed some of my clothes were in the bag you took with you.” I look my brother in the eye. “Did you take them from the house?” He asks.

“Yeah, um, I wanted to save you the trouble of getting them yourself,” I reply, returning to his hair.

“Lynnie, while I appreciate the favor, that was dangerous,” JJ says, gently squeezing my shoulder. “You were alone in there. You’re lucky Dad didn’t do worse. He could’ve hurt you much worse than he did tonight. Next time, you might not be lucky. So I need you to promise me something.” I stare at him, waiting for him to continue. “Never go in Dad’s house alone. You go with me or John B, or you don’t go.”

 “That is fine by me,” I nod.

“Good girl,” says JJ, kissing my cheek.

“Yes, I am,” I reply, cuddling into his side. “You deserve a brother of the year award, you know.” JJ laughs, and I let my eyes fall closed.

I am about to doze off when I hear JJ whisper, “Lynnie?”

“Yes, JJ?” I whisper back.

“I just want you to know that I love you, muffin,” he says. I snort. “No, seriously. I mean it. I love you.” JJ rarely verbally expresses his love, like me, so it takes me a moment to process. “And I promise I’ll do better at protecting you.” I open my eyes and glance up at him. Even in the darkness, I can see the sparkle in his eyes that tells me his words are genuine.

I smile. “I love you too, JJ,” I reply, kissing his cheek. I drift off, reminded that my brother will always be with me through the hard times.

[of-many-aus]

The Deal

Summary: jj is approached with a challenge that he couldn’t refuse, even if he tried

Warnings: underage drinking, stealing, mentions of killing and violence

A/N: i don’t really know what to think of this series so far- i hope you like it though :)

Hate Myself for Loving You Masterlist

･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.

JJ Maybank could do anything. That was just common knowledge. The boy could pickpocket without a second thought. Surf the biggest wave in the middle of a hurricane. Run from the cops for hours without breaking a sweat. The list goes on.

But the one thing that JJ Maybank couldn’t do- something that was also common knowledge to the whole island- was back out of a challenge.

If someone so much as uttered that they thought JJ couldn’t- or better yet, wouldn’t- do something, the boy would set himself on a war zone that only ended with him completing the task. Which is why it was best to never even think the words ‘I dare you’ within a five mile radius of the boy.

He supposed that was how he found himself in his current predicament, about to do what could perhaps be considered the stupidest thing he had ever done in his life. And that list was as long as the island.

Of course, JJ would like to say that he had been minding his own business when it happened, but nobody would believe that- not even if they were meeting him for the first time and had only known him for a few seconds.

He had been chatting to some snooty touron that wore a watch that was almost the size of his head and sparkled brightly in the light of the bonfire. Said watch was what JJ was currently trying to discreetly swipe off of the boy's wrist.

“-and then I told her that of course, it was no problem that I paid the ten thousand dollar fine.” He spoke boisterously, clearly trying to attract the attention of others nearby as he flexed his fathers vast fortune.

It took everything the blond boy had not to wrinkle his nose at the realization that people like the kooks lived off the obx as well, that some people weren’t any better off the island.

The tourons words were slurred and he was stumbling while trying to stand in place, watch wearing hand holding onto a red solo cup that had a bit of liquid left sloshing around in it.

JJ figured that the dude was so drunk that he no doubt could have just asked for the watch and he would have given it to him, but stealing it was much more fun.

“Maybank!”

The boy froze for half a second, thoughts of how he was caught slamming into his mind, but he roughly pushed them away. Instead, he finished slipping the watch into his back pocket and put on a neutral face, turning around to face the three advancing figures, the one in the front of the group being the one that had called his name.

“Fellas!” JJ greeted with mock happiness, “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Beat it,” Rafe snapped at the touron who’s eyebrows had furrowed at being interrupted, but the drunk guy stumbled away nonetheless, muttering under his breath as he went.

So this wasn’t about the watch, they would have called him out in front of the touron if it was.

Topper was leading the pack with Kelce and Rafe right on his heels, which was slightly strange, considering the fact that Rafe was always the one taking charge.

Right now though, it was clear why Topper was in the front. He had a look that could kill on his face and JJ was on the receiving end of it. Whatever the boy did must have been bad. Too bad he couldn’t for the life of him remember what it was.

“You,” Topper seethed, surging forward and seizing the boy by the collar, shaking him for good measure, “You need to keep your little friend away from her.”

Now JJ was confused, “Who?” He asked dumbly.

“Routledge.” The blond angrily turned him around to face the direction of where John B was happily chatting to Sarah Cameron by the fire, “You need to keep him the hell away from Sarah.”

Realization dawned on Maybank before the confusion kicked back in, “I don’t have anything to do with that.”

Topper smiled suddenly, a chilling smile that even made JJ uneasy, and he released his hold on the boy, making a show of smoothing out his shirt for him.

“Of course not, but you could always steer his attention away.” Topper spoke smoothly, “There’s some ways to do that, like, oh, I don’t know… dating his sister.”

JJ’s heart dropped into the pit of his stomach, “What?”

Kelce shrugged nonchalantly, “Everyone knows he hates the idea of his little sister dating, so what better way to distract him than his own best friend taking her out?”

His face turned up in disgust at the thought that these boys assumed they could just tell him to take you out. As if they had any say over your life, “Why the hell would I do that?”

“Oh, we’re intending to pay you, of course.” Topper was now speaking as if it was just a normal conversation, “For every date that you take her out on, we’re willing to pay two hundred dollars.”

That was more than he made in two weeks when he worked at that fancy country club.

“And don’t worry,” Rafe jumped in with a menacing smile, “We’re not expecting you to do this forever. Just until the midsummers dance, that way it distracts John B long enough for Topper to get back with Sarah.”

Two hundred dollars.

“And what if I say no?” JJ challenged with a raised eyebrow, trying to keep his composure.

Topper shrugged, “We could always have someone else go out with her. Someone who would do it for far less of a price. Come on, Maybank. What’re you, scared?”

Uh oh. That was a challenge. Something that he couldn’t back out of, even if he tried. It was a pointless battle against himself, and he knew it.

JJ’s stomach churned with worry and disgust. Of course, he knew how awful their offer was- being paid to take you out. But what if he didn’t? What if someone else was taking you out, someone with far worse intentions.

You and JJ might not always get along, but he couldn’t do that to you. That wouldn’t be right. Not to mention John B would kill him. Well, he would anyway if he took you out.

There was a hard look in his eyes when he spoke next, a sort of serious determination that was exceedingly rare to see from the boy.

“Fine.” Was all he said, doing everything in his power not to cringe.

“Wonderful. It’s a deal.” Topper smiled widely, turning on his heel, “Pleasure doing business with you, Maybank!” He called over his shoulder as he and the others strutted away.

･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.

You must have first started hating JJ Maybank in the third grade, because that’s when all the firsts happened. First tests, first friendships, first crushes, first hatred’s.

He was in the fourth grade along with your older brother at the time, and you couldn’t stand him- not a single thing about him.

It was probably due to the fact that at the mere age of nine, he had been chasing after your brother in your yard when you had been innocently walking across it, probably to go fishing off the dock. He hadn’t seen you in the way and body slammed right into you when his head was turned, sending you tumbling to the ground with a face full of grass and dirt.

JJ had been frozen in place, horrified as you started crying, but before he could even open his mouth to try and apologize, you had started screaming at him. Telling him that he was a dumb boy who had too big of shoes if he was tripping into you while running.

Immediately, he turned furious, snapping back at you about how you should have been watching where you were going instead of being in ‘la la land’.

The two of you proceeded to launch into shouts of the best insults that your young minds could muster, and were mere seconds away from lunging at each other when Big John had wandered out at the commotion and physically had to hold each of you back.

But even with your restraints, it did nothing to stop the venomous looks you sent at one other. Glares that declared from that moment forward to be rivals. To hate each other with every bone in your body. Even now, at the ages of fifteen and sixteen, neither of you had stopped.

“Bambi,”

Speak of the devil.

You and a couple friends were hanging out at a kegger that your brother and his own friends started a couple of hours ago, nursing some red solo cups near a bonfire when you heard JJ Maybank call out to you with that stupid nickname he gave you a couple years back.

A scowl appeared on your face as your friends silenced around you and you turned around to glare at him, “What do you want, JJ?” The annoyance was clear as day in your tone.

He spread his arms out with a large grin, “What? I can’t stop by to say a friendly little ‘hi’ to you?”

“No.” You deadpanned with an eye roll, “So beat it, Maybank.”

“Relax, Bambi, relax,” The blond held his hands up in mock surrender, “I come in peace.”

“Since when?” You shot back, taking a long sip from your cup.

“Since now.” He smiled at you. He never smiled at you, “I just wanted to talk-“

“Not interested.” You cut him off and turned back towards your friends, “Come on, guys,” You muttered, “I need another drink.”

Your friends hurriedly trailed after you as you stormed away, always getting worked up whenever JJ was around.

The boy was left behind, watching your retreating figure.

This was going to be harder than he thought.

[its-a-ducky-mess]

Fun: Costumes

Happy Boo Night everyone! I hope those that celebrate a safe night.

Unfortunately time has slipped away from me and I haven't gotten around to the analysis post I hoped to have ready before the end of the month. In its stead, here's one of two (three?) quick posts for the holiday spirit.

This will be a simple post detailing the costumes worn throughout Boo Night.

All of the costumes made by Sarah (Duck's, Bug's, and her own) combine three separate themes/ideas, likely out of objects around the house on quick notice.

Sarah is a "Future Fairy Crayon". Future is shown by the yellow visor, Fairy is shown by the wings and "wand" (which appears to be another crayon), and Crayon is the base/main aspect of the costume. Duck is a "Robot Ballet-Dancing Dinosaur". Robot is shown by the head of the Robo-Duck costume seen in previous episodes, Ballet-Dancing from the ballet shoes and graceful moves, and Dinosaur from the spines along Duck's back and the dinosaur arms hanging from his neck. Bug is a "Vampire Butterfly Pebble". Vampire from the fangs, Butterfly from wings similar to Sarah's, and Pebble from the newspaper covering his body.

John is a boat, while Flamingo is a tree. What I think is a cool detail is the Japanese flag on John's crow's nest, a neat reminder of his nationality. Also I can't knock Flamingo's costume too hard, I imagine it being very difficult to dress a flamingo up in a costume.

We're directly told that Scarf Lady and Bag are a pirate and parrot. A fun detail with Scarf Lady's costume is the Donkey themed Jolly Roger on her hat. In addition, there appears to be an actual metal key hanging off her scarf, unlike the wool one that is typically present. Surely it's for a chest of pirate treasure? I also love that Bag knows exactly what Sarah and Bug's costumes are, it's a very funny moment. His bewildered "I mean, am I the only one who can see this?!" as Scarf Lady walks away adds a lot to his character.

Scooter Boy is a knight, with his scooter decorated to look like a horse, a noble steed. And of course, he still has safety gear such as his helmet- under his costume's own helmet- and a reflector on.

Plate Girl is a werewolf, complete with clawed paws and fangs. Probably my favorite of the cast's costumes purely for the fact that a drawing of the moon is taped to her plate, tying into her costume's theme of lycanthropy. An interesting note is that her costume's eyebrows emote with her, despite being artificial. Though this is only seen in the scenes taking place in front of the Bread Shop's window.

Our resident Bread Man is a walrus (which I feel like John would approve of), and Cake is decorated as Frankenstein's Monster, complete with a little body made of bread under his stand.

Despite being difficult to see fully, the Ribbon Sisters are likely witches, though this is just a guess considering their costume is solely the hat.

Of the remaining background characters, we can see costumes such as a clam, a carpenter, a mummy, sheet ghosts, and what's probably a frog prince.

[urfavfakeblonde]

cₑᵢₗᵢₙgₛ

JJ Maybank x fem!reader

tw: blood, knifes, use of the word whore a lot, bondage(non-consensual)

My screams are muffled by the cloth in my mouth, tears soaking the edges of it. I feel another slice on my back and jolt forward, the knife going deeper than the other cuts. Pain shoots through my spine body from the many cuts, bruises, cigarette burns on my skin.

For a moment, it stops, and I rest my head down onto the bed, my cries even more muffled by the blood stained sheets. The cloth in removed and I shut my eyes, feeling everything. Fuck, my body hurt and he wouldn't let up. "I told you to stay away from that Maybank boy! You’re such a fucking whore, and whore's need to be taught a lesson." I felt a burn on my back and screamed, thrashing around, trying to escape the ropes that held my hands to my feet. "Please, I'm sorry!" I cried through the cloth, tears coating my cheeks. Another burn, another scream.

"Whores are never sorry." He growled, cutting the rope that bound my feet and hands together. My hands still tied behind my back were lifted up as he shoved me forward to my mirror, already smashed, not able to fully see myself in the cracks. "Look at you! How can my own daughter be a whore?" I started to say something but he moved in front of me and pushed me onto the bed. He wrapped his hands around my throat and began to squeeze. I tried to scream and thrash my body in hope of him removing his hands, but he stared into my eyes with no remorse. Was JJ really worth this? If I kill myself would anyone care? My father would rather kill me than let me be happy. Fuck, what if I get through this and JJ see's me and is gone forever? He'll blame himself and leave. It was only when my eyes started fading to black that he let go and my thought’s subsided. I coughed and cried as he stood up, saying something that I couldn't hear behind the ringing in my ears. He left the room and I could feel the front door slam shut.

When I woke up, it was morning. Early—the sun was just beginning to rise. I sat up and winced at the pain. My hands were still tied behind my back, and my attempts at getting them off failed. I sniffled and stood up, falling over a bit before glancing in the mirror. There was dry blood all over my body, accompanied by cuts and bruises. Cigarette burns littered my body, only being in my now bloody white undergarments. I stumbled to my door frame and looked down and a broken beer glass. I bent down and grabbed it, already cutting the palms of my hands. Tears fell down my face at the pain of trying to cut the ropes from behind. When they finally fell to the floor, the glass did the same as my hand fell onto the wall for support. Blood painted the walls as I stumbled out of my house, tears falling off my chin with gasps and falling deep breaths. Thank God John B lived just down the street. I walked down the gravel road and hoped that no one would drive by. When I reached the Château, I saw John B and Sarah talking on the steps. I tried to yell, but my voice got lost and my tears just made it harder to speak. When I got closer, Sarah looked up and I could see her gasp. My legs were shaking and I gave up on walking. My bison was all burry from my tears— my body giving out on me, my knees sinking into the dirt. Sarah and John B ran over and started asking me questions but all I could hear was him. Whore. How can my own daughter be a whore? Whores are never sorry. My face buried into John’s neck as he lifted me up and carried me quickly into the Château. I looked at Sarah and wanted to speak but I just couldn’t. I groaned in pain as he set me down on the table that Sarah had just cleared off, and Sarah started crying, moving m6 hair from my face. I could feel her holding my face in her hands as my eyes shut.

“JJ! Kie! Wake up!” John B shouted, shaking JJ awake.

“what the fuck is happening?” Kie groaned sitting up. She glanced over at the table and her eyes went wide. “Holy shit! JJ!” She shaked JJ hard and he groaned. She got up quickly and ran to the other side of the table. “Sarah what the fuck happened?” JJ’s eyes went wide as he got up quickly and ran to me. “What the fuck!?” John B came back with a first aid kit, and Kiara stared getting gaze out from it. JJ started getting tears in his eyes as he cupped my face gently. “Y/n/n? Y/n? Wake up, please” he spoke like a prayer.

“John B get me some water!” Kiara said as he was finding a bowl. He came back quickly and Kiara put her fingers to my neck, checking for a pulse. “Do we call 911?”

[gazsluckyhat]

Sarah's House

Twelve - Scotland

Masterlist

Hey, God? It's me again. Littlely but a goody.

Price knew he shouldn't take the mission. The outcome seemed obvious, or so he thought. Until he wasn't anymore.

or

Like calls to like. Or something of the sort.

Johnny spent the ride back home holding Sarah's hand tightly. The feelings he'd felt since Russia clear and blooming in his chest. She leaned into his arm, head laying agaisnt as she dozed off. They'd be back at the house soon, Gaz making her eat lunch before she'd shower. He hadn't felt this content and happy in years. Things felt right. Like when you find the last puzzle piece. He could see himself in the future. Retired, Sarah and the boys by his side. Maybe they'd escape to Scotland. Back to his home. His family. His sisters would be ecstatic. His mom through the roof.

"Who's car is that?" His eyes take in the black rental parked in the driveway. Sarah's eyes slowly adjusting to being awake. "I've never seen it." She speaks slow, nerves blooming. Johnny parks the car and takes Sarah's hand again as they walk through the front door. He can see Simon and John first, Gaz placed a little more to his left. There's a figure blocking them from going in all the way. All they can see is the back of them, dark jacket and plain jeans. He has no idea who this is. Sarah freezes beside him, her whole body tensing and he goes to pull her behind him when she speaks.

"D-dean?" It's shaky and almost broken. The man whirls around and Sarah is throwing herself at him in a instant. A loud sob breaking the silence. John places a hand on Simon's chest when he takes a step forward.

"Raven." It's breathed into he hair. Hands cradling he to him. He pulls her back long enough to look at her and speak again. "You're safe." She nods before burying her head in his chest again. The boys ae frozen, no idea who this man is or why he's here. It's Simon that speaks up, his mask back in place.

"You're her partner." It's a statement. It's who she mistook him as the fist time she'd had a episode. The man met his eyes, raking over Simon.

"You must be Ghost, the elusive phantom." Sarah pulls back. Her eyes are swollen and red. There's a scar running over his left eyebrow, so close to his eye. She runs her fingers over it.

"It's new." He nods.

"Courtesy of my last mission." She nods. Hands shaky as she steps back, head looking towards John. "I'm sorry to intrude. My old captain called saying she'd be found. I came as soon as I was given a location."

"Ryan called you? Is he okay?" Dean nods, hand wrapping around her arm.

"Yeah, he is. Said he'd like to talk to you tho-" Simon stops him there.

"Enough." Sarah flinches slightly, Dean squeezes her arm. "She can make her own decisions." Dean puffs up before Sarah is reaching for Simon.

"Si, it's okay." She almost coos it, grabing his arm and pulling him into her. Dean watches in shock.

"Excuse us if we're weary." John uses his captain voice and steps closer. "Sarah's safety is top priority and we weren't aware you were coming." Dean looks around, sizing up Johnny and Gaz as well.

"Safety? Like I'm gonna hurt her? Sarah, who are these people?" Sarah feels the stress invade her brain.

"Dean, meet one-four-one. They were the team that saved me." She squeezes Simon's arm again, placing her back to his front. She can feel his tension. "Captain John Price, Seargent Kyle Garrick and Johnny MacTavish and of course you've heard of Ghost." She smiles up at him.

"You're living with your rescue squad?" Confusion is clear on his features. "What about your dad? Your family?" Sarah prickles. Her back straightening, her family was still a sore subject.

"Her father is who decided she should stay 'ere." It's Johnny, his body slipping in beside Simon. His arms are crossed over each other.

"So she can make her own decisions but can't decide where she lives?" Sarah steps between them.

"I'm right here. I decided it was best If I stay here. I'm safe here. Happy even. I think we should all take a breath, yeah?" Dean watches as she turns to the two bigger men. She places a hand on their chest and nods to them. It makes Dean feel weird.

"Would you like to stay for dinner?" Gaz asks trying to ease the mood. Dean catches Sarah's eye and nods. "Awesome, Soap why don't you help me?" Sarah accepts the kiss to her cheek as he moves to go to the kitchen. It catches Dean by surprise. He takes her by the arm, Simon almost losing it.

"I'll be okay Simon, go ahead." He stutters for a second before walking off, Dean pulling her closer to the door.

"What is going on Sarah? How long have you be here? Why didn't you call me?" Sarah runs a hand through her hair, sighing. Two years. It'd been two years.

"Dean, I was hardly coherent the first few days. I've only been here, maybe a month or two. I have a hard time keeping track of the days." She meets his eyes. "Everything has been kept quiet on my behalf, you and I both know what the press would do if they found out. They'd make me into some American Heroine and I don’t want- no- I can't have that." Dean sighs and looks at her. She looks so different now. So thin, all her muscle gone. His skin seems paler, color just now creeping back in. And there is a hollowness in her eyes, a darkness that lives behind the light now.

"I looked for you. I swear I did. The second Ryan said you weren't answering I ran. All I found when I got there was blood and your gun." She feels that familiar burning feeling in her chest again. Tears brim her eyes. "We were benched the second we got back. Disbanded not to long after but I still went out looking. Pulled strings for any info I could. Where ever that hid you was top of the line. No one knew about it. No one." Dean takes in a shaky breath.

"Dean.." He stops her.

"I got a plane out here the second I found out you were alive. Pulled some strings to get this location. I have no idea what happened while you were gone-" Sarah startles. Gone? Gone?!

"Gone? Like I was on some Russian vacation?" She scoffs and her voice raises. "Because they treated me so nicely. Between fucking me and using me as a pin cushion I was getting five star treatment Dean. Best fucking food on the planet! And your own vomit as a pallet cleanser? Best idea!" Dean blanches, gags before clearing his throat.

"Sarah-" There's tears in her eyes, but anger on her face.

"What's going on, Love?" John's eyes raking over the pair before going to stand with Sarah. "What did you do?" He throws Dean's way. Sarah laughs before pushing herself away.

"Nothing. I've just lost my appetite." She turns and walks away. Dean sighs, brain running wild.

"I didn't know-" He stutters out before Ghost appears behind John and speaks.

"It's best you leave." He stand guard watching as Dean walks to the door.

"If she will talk to me, I'll be here for a while. If she wants to talk." He leaves, tension high in the air.

 Sarah sits in the corner of the closet again. Like the first time. It's become a safe place. Nice and quiet. Days where everyone was a tad too much she could crawl in here and just breath. The silence was nice.

"Gonna have to get you some cushions." Gaz says as he crawls to fit beside her. Sarah smiles before leaning into him. Eyes closing as she starts to cry.

"I don't think I'll ever get over what happened." She mumbles clenching her hands. Gaz nods, hand rubbing her side.

"No, you won't. But that's okay. You shouldn't have to just forget. It's a part of you now. You just have to learn to process it. Use it for the better." Sarah think Gaz might be the smartest one of the bunch. Maybe he wanted to be a psychologist.

"I want to help others. People like me." She takes in a breath. Helping people had be her life's mission. And though it wasn't going exactly to plan she could still do it. Gaz bends down to place a kiss to her lips, sneaking a arm around her shoulder to pull her closer. Sarah smiles into him. The feeling of contentment and safety washing over the pair.

"You know, before we got home, I told Johnny I loved him." She feels Gaz's breath catch so she places her hand on his cheek. "I love you as well, Kyle. Just as much. Right along with Simon and John." She kisses him again. "I don't think I'll ever hate Russia completely. Not when it brought you to me." Kyle takes her head in his hands as he kisses her. Pushes her down with the force and settles over her. His forever.

[sunnyie-eve]

25 | Money, Money, Money

Series: Never Leave You | OBX

Paring:(JJ Maybank x OFC! Rafe Cameron x OFC!)

Word Count: 1.8k

Warnings: feelings conflicted, new self

MASTERLIST

You think it would be hard catching a ride back home to Outer Banks from South America but it wasn't. The Pogues really just slept for like three weeks till they got back. Tess did get the doctor to confess Will paid him to lie so Callie was free from Will and had a restraining order against him. She was also happy to see Callie and JJ were alright.

At the moment Callie was on her way to Tannyhill to see Rafe. As soon as he opened the door seeing her he pulls her into a hug.

"I have some news to share with you." She pulls out of the hug walking inside.

"What is it?" He asks, worried she choose JJ instead of taking time.

"It's about Ward..." She turn to face him.

"What happened?"

"He's dead...for real this time." She watches him sit down, "One of Carlos' men was going to shoot Sarah but he jumped in front of her to save her. He tackled the man off the cliff. He died being a good father." Callie's eyes get glassy, "I'm sorry, Rafe. I even helped Sarah put up a cross for him." Rafe stands up pulling her into a hug to cry so she comforts him.

"He said I was a good boy... I'm in control now. I'm the man. All of it is mine, everything here. That I proved myself... He loves me. He knows I'm a good boy because you see something in me and care for me."

"He's right and I do. At least your last conversion was good. He was finally proud of you. You got what you wanted from him. And thank you for giving my aunt money." Callie rubs his back.

"Of course. That's what friends do. They help each other out." He gives her a squeeze.

Suddenly when it was time for the gold, the group got together to see how much it was all worth. "Twenty pounds. 98.5% gold." The man tells the group.

"That translates to?" John B waits.

"This is money. A whole lot of money." The man tells him so everyone cheers as the two shake hands.

"Moment of truth. All right. Pin is 0000. Enter." John B puts in the pin as the group huddle around an ATM.

"You're kidding me." Callie gives him a look.

"What?"

"Tell me that's a temporary pin." Kie tells him as well.

"I thought nobody could guess." He tries to explain.

"Change that immediately." Pope tells him so he apologizes.

When the receipt comes out John B and JJ fight over the paper to see what the amount was and John B wins to read the amount while everyone looks over his shoulders to see.

"Okay. Our joint account balance... after paying JJ's resignation at 10:04am on Tuesday.."

"Oh come on. Get on with it!" Cleo tells him.

"Our joint account balance is one point one million, seventy-two thousand, five hundred and forty-nine dollars."

"You said mil?" JJ asks.

"Million?" Pope adds.

Everyone celebrates and Callie sees JJ walk off a bit so she goes over to him, "I thought you would be the happiest out of everyone." She leans against the fridge like he was.

"I'm happy."

Callie sighs tilting her head back closing her eyes, "But you're not, JJ." She looks back at him, "I know you well enough."

"I just wish certain things were like I wanted them to be." He gives her a look and she knew exactly what he meant.

She sighs looking away to see Kie looking over at them before looking away, "I wish the same but things happened." She tells him before walking away going outside.

Kiara watches her then walks over to JJ, "Still hasn't forgiven you?"

JJ looks at her, "I don't expect her to yet."

"If she truly loved you should would forget everything." Kie tells him so he leaves going to find Callie but she was no where to be seen.

Callie had walked off going to the nearest way to the beach. While she was walking, Rafe drove by but backed up seeing her, "Hey loser."

"Hey." She gives him a smile but it wasn't her normal smile.

"Where you headed to? I'll give you a ride." He offers so she takes it saying to take her to the beach.

Without saying anything once they get there, she gets out walking towards the water getting in then diving underwater. Rafe gets out rushing over to see what the hell she was doing.

"Relax would you." She laughs as he gets close to her.

"I hardly ever relax."

"Unless you're with me and you are so." She stands up giving him a smile.

"What's up with you?" He asks because she wasn't herself.

"Thinking about things. I love JJ but the more I take time to think... something doesn't feel the same anymore." She tells him, "And I can't figure it out."

"It's that one little broken piece that hasn't been put back with the others." He tells her what he thinks.

"Maybe it is." She agrees with him, "It's like something is holding it back from joining the rest."

Rafe nods his head, "You still just need time to heal and I'm sure he understands that. Your first love hurt you, you know." He tells her so she looks at him nodding her head as well agreeing with him.

When Rafe drops her off at her place, JJ was waiting outside for her. He still hated how close she was to Rafe. Callie automatically knew he wanted to say something as she walks up and Rafe drives off.

"You just vanished earlier."

"I wanted to go to the beach." She tells him truthfully.

"With Rafe?"

"No, I was walking and he drove by and saw me so he offered to drive me there. Why does it bother you? He's a friend." She goes to unlock the door and he follows her inside.

"A friend you've hooked up with and is an asshole."

"Why bring up that first part?" She turns to face him, "It doesn't matter because I'm single. We're still not together, JJ."

"Why is that still?"

"Because I don't know if I want to get back together, honestly. If it happened once how do I know it won't happen again?" She tells him.

"Callie, come on. I never worried about you and Rafe after you hooked up."

"I was single when I did that. You weren't when you wanted to kiss Kie. That's the difference." She tells him. "And those feelings for Kie aren't gone no matter what you tell yourself. I know that because how I have feelings for Rafe still from our time together." She steps forward taking his hands into hers, "I love you, JJ. I do. But I don't want to fear things that might or might not happen. I don't want a relationship with anyone right now so don't assume I'm going to run to Rafe. I just need time alone." She kisses his cheek going towards her room

"So we're done done?" He asks so she sighs.

"Maybe someday we can try again." She goes to her room so he could let himself out.

That whole conversation they had Tess had heard while in the kitchen being quiet so she could ease drop. Once JJ left she goes up to Callie's room to check on her.

"That was a big decision you made down there."

Callie looked over at her, "Yeah, and I stand by what I said. And like you said, I need to focus on myself."

"If that's the case... let's go on a little vacation. You need a getaway. Come on." Tess smiles clapping her hands excitedly.

"Seriously?" Callie laughs.

"Yes, we can leave in the morning. I'm free. Do you have any plans?" Callie shakes her head no so she stars to get things together to leave for tomorrow

The next morning as soon as both were awake they get there things together to leave for who knows how long. They didn't have a plan for anything and were just going with the flow. And after a good amount of months away when they got back home, Callie felt better.

Sadly they went back home for a few days before leaving again because Callie made a mistake by sleeping with Rafe again. She went by to surprise him she was back and they had a bit too much fun drinking.

After of a couple of weeks of trying to forget what happened, Tess and Callie go back home for good. Later the same day they got back, Rafe showed up knocking on the door, "Rafe?" Tess opens the door.

"Seeing you're back that means Callie is too right?" He asks her.

"Yeah, she's up in her room. Come in." Tess lets him in so he goes up to her room knocking on the door.

When she opens it she was surprised to see him just a bit, "Sup?" She lets him into her room and he sees she was changing it up.

"Needing a change?" He asks her, "Your hair is darker." He points out

"Yeah, a change was well needed." She laughs going back to painting her wall.

"Didn't you have the guys names carved here?" He asks pointing at the window.

"Wow, you really payed attention to things. And yes, I did but I fixed it up."

"What's up being more girly this time?" He laughs at her.

"It's not even that girly." She rolls her eyes, "Now what brought you here?“

"My dad's ashes arrived earlier and I put them in the ocean. You said you helped Sarah put up a cross for him but they found him lying at the bottom of a cliff left there."

"I did help but we didn't move his body, Rafe. Again I'm so sorry." She stops to face him so he pulls her into a hug. "Just remember he said he was proud of you because he left." She rubs his back, "I know you really needed that so don't forget that."

Rafe just cries into her for a bit and she didn't mind. She wanted him to let it out. She wanted to be there for a friend.

"Enough of that." He finally pulls back so she wipes his tears away laughing at him. “Why did you leave again after that night?” He ask her.

“I needed to think something’s over but I’m back for good now. Sorry for disappearing on you again.”

"It’s okay. Umm, tomorrow is Kildare Enduro. I'm in it and I believe JJ is as well." He lets her know. Just incase you have no plans." He walks towards her door to leave.

"I'll think about it." She gives him a smile as he leaves.

[rafesveryrealgf]

Where this flower blooms | chapter 2

(Rafe Cameron x Heyward!reader)

Warnings: NON CANON, curse words, sexual references/sexual innuendos, slightly toxic (not really) relationship, smut, forbidden relationship, underage drinking.

Synopsis: he’s an asshole, but he’s so hot. It’s a shame he’s also your brothers biggest foe.

A/N: read part 1 for context

Kiara and Sarah somehow convinced you to go to a party with them on The Cut, which your brother Pope, John B, and JJ would also be attending to. Your parents wouldn’t have let Pope go if you weren’t with him so he was happy he had Sarah and Kiara there to help convince you to go.

Before you got to the party you all pre-gamed at The Chateau which you were low-key grateful for because there was no way you were hanging with these guys all night, sober. You all knew it would be a terrible idea to drive to and back from the party, drunk so, you all decided to walk. It wasn’t that far anyway so, nobody protested.

It looked like everyone at the party was already wasted by the time you guys even got there.

The boys had went their separate ways from you, Sarah and Kiara. And as you scanned over the party you noticed Topper and Kelce. You knew Rafe couldn’t have been far. Wherever those two were, Rafe was sure to be right behind.

“Fuck, my brothers here.” Sarah cursed.

Kiara stood on her tippy toes to follow Sarah’s gaze. Sarah slumped a bit, not wanting her brother to see her, knowing he’d either snitch on her to their father or taunt her for the whole night.

“Does he ever have a shirt on?” Kiara questioned with a disgusted face.

“Nope.” Sarah answered.

“I mean, we kinda are at the beach.” You chuckled.

“True.” Kiara frowned.

“Guys we gotta move, I can’t let him see me.” Sarah held one hand over her face as if he wouldn’t be able to recognize her figure or hair if he had seen her.

You all moved through the little crowds of people to try and get as far as you could.

“Sarah!” John B yelled with his hand up and waving her over.

Rafe heard his sisters name being called and looked at John B to follow his gaze.

“Shit,” Sarah said, ducking even lower.

You and Kiara attempted to hide her in front of you both as you walked but Rafe saw.

Rafe’s face was even as he walked past the bonfire and through the crowd over to his sister.

“Get up, dumbass.” He said. “I see you.”

Sarah cursed herself for not hiding better.

You and Kiara now stood besides Sarah, Kiara giving Rafe a scowling look while you were scared for Sarah.

“What are you hiding for? Huh?” Rafe questions, furrowing his brows.

“Didn’t want you to snitch.” She says, crossing her arms over her chest.

“I don’t give a fuck about the shit you do,” He spit. “And you know that.”

Topper and Kelce had made their way over, now standing slightly behind Rafe.

“Bullshit Rafe! You snitch on me every chance you get.” She spit back.

You, Kiara, Topper, and Kelce watched as the two siblings argued.

“Yeah, when you piss me off.”

“You’re an asshole, Rafe.” Sarah scoffs. “Why are you even on The Cut.”

He ignored the last part.

“Yeah, whatever.” He looks down at Sarah’s bare legs. “And those shorts are far too short, cover up. Before some fucking pedo, or some shit, gets your ass.” He spits one last insult at his sister before he looks you up and down.

“How about you go put a shirt on, asshole.” She responded.

He gave his sister the middle finger before him, Topper and Kelce decided to walk back to where they came from.

You all feel relieved when he walks away.

“I hate him, so much.” Sarah says, as all three of you walk over to the guys.

They were sitting on a log, around the bonfire when you walked up.

“What was that about?” John B questioned.

Pope looked up at you. “Rafe wasn’t talking to you, was he?”

“No, no. He was talking to me.” Sarah blurted. She didn’t want Pope to get riled up for no reason and cause a scene.

“Just being his typical, grade A asshole, self.” Kiara added.

“Whys he even here?” JJ asks while playing with a stick in the sand.

“Seriously.” Kiara scoffs.

Sarah shrugged.

“Let’s just stay as far as possible from him.” You add, not really knowing what to say.

Everyone nods.

“I’m gonna get a drink, anyone want anything?” You say.

Only JJ and Kiara said yes. You nodded before making your way to the keg.

You grabbed three red solo cups, and began to fill them up one by one, setting the firstly filled cup on the portable table that held up the keg.

“Following me again?” A familiar voice says from behind.

A shirtless Rafe makes an appearance when he stands beside you. You look up for a second then back down at the keg to make sure you didn’t overfill the cup.

“Absolutely not.” You roll your eyes.

“Keep rolling your eyes like that and they’ll get stuck back there, ya know?” He grins.

“Good,“ you respond. “Then I won’t have to see you.” You shrug.

The second cup had been filled so, you placed it on the table next to the first filled cup.

He lowers his head, chuckling to himself at your smart remark.

“You always have something smart to say.”

“You were a dick to Sarah.” You grab the last cup and continue to fill it up.

“Yeah? so what? She’s my sister.”

“Pope doesn’t talk to me like that.” You shrug.

“Sarah’s a drama queen, alright? She deserves to get humbled once in awhile. That’s why I exist.” He points to himself then throws his hands up in defense, with a smile.

You chuckled a bit at his words. He wasn’t wrong, Sarah was dramatic at times, but you loved her for it.

“You have a pretty smile.” He says softly, tilting his head. “You should smile more often.”

Your smile disappeared at his random words, as your cheeks turned slightly red.

you were taken aback, honestly.

He was absolutely drunk because Rafe giving compliments? Was not something you’d ever seen before.

You stared at him for a second, not knowing what to say, then looked back down at your cup that was overflowing with beer, as the liquid flowed around the rim and onto your hand then sprinkled onto your feet. You quickly pulled the cup away from the keg and sat it on the table.

“Shit,” you cursed.

Rafe looked down at the liquid spilled onto your feet and hands. “oh shit.” He said, before quickly grabbing napkins that sat next to the keg.

He dropped on one knee and began cleaning the liquid off the tops of your feet.

“Thank you.” You murmured.

It was weird seeing how soft Rafe was with you when he treated his sister like shit.

“Don’t worry about it.” He nodded as he stood up, throwing the napkins in a trashcan next to the table.

“I gotta get back,” You said, pointing your thumb over your shoulder towards your group.

He nodded. “See you around.” He grinned.

You nodded back and picked up the solo cups to bring back to Kiara and JJ. One solo cup rested in the crease of your elbow since your hands were occupied with the other two.

“Took you long enough.” Kiara joked.

“I spilled it all over me.” You leaned down handing her the solo cup, then walked up to JJ, handing him his.

“Idiot.” Pope said, playfully.

You and the group had been at the party for about an hour now. Everyone was now, out of their mind, drunk.

Everyone was nursing their own drinks. Kiara was leaned onto Pope and Sarah was seated next to John B, Leaving you and JJ to fifth wheel together

“I’m going for a swim.” You say, belching as you stand up.

“Did you bring your bathing suit?” Pope asks, slurring his words.

“No. But what’s the difference between a bathing suit and underwear.” You shrug with a frown.

“So true.” Sarah points at you with half closed eyes like you had just said the realest thing.

Well in her drunk mind, you had.

You began to pull your shirt over your head.

“Yes! Go Y/n!” Kiara cheers you on, also slightly slurring her words.

“You’re so sexy!” Sarah yells.

You let a big cheeky smile form across your face as your brother covers his own.

“It feels illegal to watch you strip into your under garments, please.” His hand was still covering his face enough for him to not see your figure undressing.

John B also covered his face out of respect for both you and Sarah whileJJ sat back with a big drunken smile on his face.

You flung your shirt over your head a few times then threw it, God knows where.

That shirt was expensive.

You slowly slid down your shorts to give your friends a little show.

Sarah and Kiara were laughing uncontrollably.

Rafe, from afar, caught wind of what was going on and watched as you slid your shorts down, revealing your laced underwear.

“No way I’m sitting here for this,” Pope said. “I’m getting a beer.” He stood up. “John B, JJ, c’mon.” His hand still covering his face as he waved for his friends with his free hand.

“Y’all be good.” John B, yelled (mostly talking to Sarah) as he followed Pope.

JJ hesitated, enjoying the show you had put on, but eventually followed the guys so he wouldn’t get lectured for staring at his best friends little sister undressing herself.

You were now only in your bra and underwear, getting yourself hyped up to jump into the freezing water.

“You got this!” Sarah yelled.

You peaked over your shoulder and smiled at your friends that were a few feet away as you dipped your toe in the water.

Rafe was standing with Topper and Kelce not listening to a single word they were saying as he still watched you from afar, amused by your enthusiasm.

“Dude, are you listening?” Topper’s question was quickly answered when he followed Rafe’s gaze and realized you were who he was eyeing.

“Oh nah,” he dragged out, punching Rafe’s shoulder. “Don’t even.” He chuckled.

“What?” Rafe snapped back into the conversation.

“That’s Heyward’s sister.”

“Yeah, so what?” He shot back.

“She’s a pogue.” Kelce added, noticing what was going on.

When Rafe looked back at you, you were splashing around in the water.

“Not like I’m trying to get with her.” Rafe spit.

“But you’re eye fucking her, dude.” Kelce said, chuckling along with Topper.

“I mean I get it, she’s hot for a Pogue, but-,”

“Shut the fuck up, Topper.” Rafe says, cutting him off.

“No way,” Kelce dragged out. “You got a thing for Heyward’s sister?”

Rafe snapped his head to Kelce and furrowed his brows. “No.” Was all that came out.

“Right,” Topper said slowly, not believing Rafe’s answer.

[ladielovette]

how dollie's birthday goes with the pogues!

WORD COUNT: 1.2k

SUMMARY: how dollie's birthday goes w the pogues

CONTAINS/GENRE: fluff, mentions of birthday, hugs and kisses, letters, flirting, teasing (not that kind)

dollie woke up to the feeling of her hand being submerged in warm water, she was a pretty light sleeper and john b was rethinking the prank. dollie pretended to still be asleep just to hear her friends mindless babbling, knowing they'd probably say something dumb and make her laugh.

"dude she's gonna wake up, i dunno why you tried this in the first place." john b whisper scolded jj, his arms folded as he stood behind his friend that was crouched holding a bowl of warm water, "she won't, be patient." jj hushed john b and looked intently at the girls face that was twitching a bit as she tried to hold back her laugh, "dang it!" jj grumbled and pulled the bowl away, dumping it on john b instead, "bet she woke up 'cause of ya complaints." jj scoffed before he tried to make a dramatic exit but instead slipped on the water he poured on john b.

john b stood unfazed as he rolled his eyes at his friend and grabbed a towel off of the rack in dollie's room, wiping his face and tossing it back over the rack, "ignore him, he tried to make you pee." john b sat on the bottom of her bed, dollie's face slightly twisted in concern and disgust. "ok, phrased that wrong." john b shook his head and dismissed the previous conversation, "happy 17th." he grinned and shook her shoulder gently, making her smile and sit up, "before you ask if i feel more mature, i don't." she giggled and pulled the blanket off, hugging him tightly and standing up to find some clothes before the pogues came in through her bedroom door.

"happy birthday t'you!" they harmonized holding a cake sarah paid for, collectively smiling as jj giggled in the back of all of them, when they finished their song they held the cake infront of her and she blew out the candles with a big smile on her face, "yay! did you make your wish?" sarah asked as she moved to stand beside the girl and wrap her in a side hug, "yah, but i can't tell ya." she told the girl before jj came from behind pope with a crown and sash that read, happy 13th! and her face screwed up a tiny bit at that, jj saw the look and responded, "only one left at save-a-lot." he shrugged before grinning again and putting the accessories on her, "y'look so good now, even in ya bunny jammies." he tugged on the sleeve a bit, "aren't you sweet." she gave him a pretend smile and pulled it off, "i'll put it back in, gotta get clothed first though." she muttered and went to her closet.

"sooo, cake now?" jj asked, dollie heard the echo of kie mumbling something but the girl only heard the word 'wait' and the hitting of his shoulder. dollie got dressed in shorts and a button up gingham shirt with some beaten up red converse she'd had for years now, doing a quick braid and coming back out of the bathroom to get the sash and crown and get a move on.

the pogues had all gotten into the twinkie and dollie was now fully in birthday mode, excited and talking to the girls about how pumped she was— her hyperness most likely from eating cake for breakfast that jj insisted needed more frosting, the boys argued in the front about how the schedule was gonna go, the pogues took birthdays very seriously, and they were determined to make her 17th the best ever.

dollie finally turned to the front where john b was driving, jj was in the passenger seat, and pope sat behind their seats, "so, what actually are we doing for today?" she smiled as she practically bounced in her spot, pope felt concern for her teeth he could hear rotting from the sugar but spoke with animation anyway, "everything we know you love to do." pope looked up at the girl from his spot on the floor, "surf?" she perked up a bit, "that's right, mama, papa j is taking the birthday girl surfin' and if johnny boy isn't being a meanie like usual— we'll get milkshakes." jj turned around in his seat, "your with me from 9 to 11." he grinned as he chewed his gum he winked at her, making her shake her head with a smile. "11 to 1 is with me," pope started and slapped away jjs hand that was trying to take off his hat discreetly by slipping his hand behind the chair, "were goin' to a museum." he smiled softly at her to which she reacted with a big smile and nod of approval. "1 to 3 is with me, m'taking you to a baking class." he said, dollie's eyes widened and then her lips curled up, baking was not her specialty, she could cook well— baking? nightmare.

"3 to 6 with your fav, kie." kie put her hand under her chin as a way to jokingly emphasize her face, making dollie laugh slightly, "simple surf shop shopping spree on me." kie tried to play it off as nothing but she knew dollie had been wanting a new board and more fahlo bracelets recently, so dollie squealed in excitement for a second before composing herself, hugging kie. "ay! why ain't i get any of that!" jj grunted to the girls, annoyed he didn't get a hug, "maybe later." dollie pulled away from kie and waved him off, making him gasp dramatically and pout to himself, "aaaand," sarah finished off this little segment of her day, "6 to 9 with i and im taking you to make your own crayon color!" sarah gushed, knowing dollie had wanted to go there for awhile now, watching many many videos on popes computer of the process in awe and pouting about how she wanted to go, that also made dollie squeal, "you guys are seriously the bestfriends ever, i love yall." she put her hands over her heart as she jutted her bottom lip out in a fake pout, "couldn't ask for much better." she was serious, she loved them all, she'd be able to gush forever about her friends.

"ah, that's not all." pope cut off with a finger up, "oh yah, you get a bonfire with all ya little friends plus the bestest ones at the end of the day." john b smiled as he spoke to her, knowing she'd love it, she gasped and started raving about them again before jj cut her off, "we know we're the bestfriends ever, but i want a smoothie bowl and sarah said 'is on her so can we get our butts on the move— 12 and under eat free— you look about 12." jj pointed at the girl with narrowed eyes as he analyzed her, "you mean 13?" she pointed at her sash and the girls laughed at that.

"welll... you convinced shoupe you were 8 when he was plastered so he'd let you off the hook for running out a restaurant without paying."

"what?!"

that was fun to write, tell me if you want a part 2!!

divider creds:

@issysh3ll

@dollywons

that's all, xoxo, brandy.

[lolitastories]

Helpless

Description: She worked as a lawyer in New York until she received a phone call from the man she owes her career to. She knew she would be back and what she was in for but what she didn’t know is that her life would change even more than she imagined.

Part 3

Chapter 2

“I need you to get this whole reporter thing situated. Jamie will still be working but only when I say so. He will stay in the bunkhouse until then working on himself” After Jamie’s suicide attempt John told him to rebuild himself, he didn’t feel like losing another child of his. “Also check up on Cassidy and Beth” I nod getting up. I walk out his office and out the front door. It was only 8 in the morning and I could just fall down and take a long nap. The whole ranch was alive. I look to my left and see the cowboys doing whatever they do with the cattle. I have met some of the cowboys here, such as Ryan, Lloyd, Jimmy, and Colby. Not really a fan of the whole ranch life but seeing them passionate and happy here is a bit liberating. Back home it was a small town and I call it the inbetween. We didn’t have large lands with farm animals or cowboys but we also didn’t have what cities do. You could go from a quiet neighborhood with a decent amount of land to a 10 minute drive down to city hall where bars and tourists danced around until curfew. The inbetween.

“Ready for that horse riding lesson?” My gaze left the cowboys and moved over to rip putting on his gloves.

“Give me another 6 years and i’ll let you know” He chuckles walking up beside me to give me a side hug but leaving him around my shoulders.

“Have to get rid of the fear if you are going to stay around here, you know horses can feel whatever you are feeling” I shake my head with a smile

“You’re horse must have a lot of anger and entitlement” I hear Lloyd laugh from close by. “Has he been acting better?” Lloyd gives me a hurt look

“I could never talk about the boss like that” The laugh that leaves me is only cut short when I catch Kayce in the corner of my eye. He pulls the horse in the secluded section. A little boy stands by watching him as the horse starts bucking but soon enough the horse settles and runs along the ring.

“That his son, Tate” I only nod. “And that's his soon to be ex wife” I look over at the tan, thin, black haired woman walking up to the fence. “Have you been helping with his divorce?” I look up seeing a grin on his face.

“Rip Rip Rip.” I shake my head again removing his arm and walking closer to him and whispering since I don’t want anyone else to hear.

“I think you should be focused on your love life which needs the most help than anyone else's plus, you know I don’t talk about my cases unless John says so '' I wave him goodbye and turn to do the same with the cowboys. I had a long morning ahead of me and I can tell you it will be an even longer afternoon.

I went over to the office and got familiar with everything going with Sarah Nguyen. The report states the cause of death was drowning which was nothing new here. The problem will be if anything shows in her body as signs it wasn’t drowning that killed her. There has been a test of what I would do for this family and this was truly the worst. Everybody is shown right from wrong from a young age. I know it's wrong to help cover this up, for god sake I devote myself to tell the truth under oath and if this goes to court rooms I will bend myself over backwards to stand loyal. Now to stop that from happening I need to make sure Jamie’s name is nowhere connected to hers. She hadn’t published anything but I can count on her talking to people close to her about what she was writing about. I have to check up on that and the notes she surely has on the interview. The next thing wasn’t something I could do alone. Beth was attacked and the men were taken care of. It has been a hassle to shut down anything being said but so far we have done a good job. Not only does the Beck brothers have hands on this but they also found out they had to do with the whole cattle situation. I recently found out about the plane they kept. Now it was up to Kayce and the association to use that and if they need help I will step in. I look at my clock after finally getting something to eat and see it hit 2.

“Miss Reid is waiting to hear from you” My assistant said, walking through the door holding my phone.

“Make a call down to Dutton’s phone company and get Jamie's phone transfer started. Make a damage/lost claim and tell them I will be by there in an hour” She nods handing me the phone “Miss Reid”

“Y/L/N” I met Cassidy once. When she was trusted as attorney general. “John gave me a call this morning to let me know you would be stopping by” I fake chuckle. Not that I didn’t like her but something was off and I had a hard time trusting some people.

“Of course. I wasn’t going to go around him but I thought there was really no real reason to bother you since you must be busy with the new job.”

“Oh and what hectic can it be” She laughs

“Am sure, listen we could plan to get drinks because I am sure we will spend some time together soon enough, unless you have something to discuss with me?”

“Drinks sounds great right now but you’re right we have to schedule it for some other time. At this moment everything is handled although I do have something to pick with you” Ok. “It has nothing to do with the job or John but it's something personal that we can discuss this Wednesday?”

“Is it a morning drink situation or afternoon?” I pull out a sticky note.

“A late evening” I was surprised to hear that from her.

“How’s 7?

“I’ll text you the location”

“See you then” We exchange goodbyes and I hang

up the phone. I get up grabbing my things and heading out my office door. “Set this up for wednesday. Do you have the paperwork on Kayce and Monica’s divorce?”

“The paperwork hasn’t been sent from court.” I I almost faceplant myself on her desk.

“I’ll take care of it. What did they say about the phone?”

“They will have it there waiting in an hour” I thankher telling her I would be leaving for the day.

“You can go home early” I say leaving the doors. Now I have to spend the rest of my afternoon in court waiting on papers. It should be fast but what Jennifer didn’t listen to when I told her to file the papers was that she was supposed to file them with the reservation. I know I should have checked up on the paperwork sooner but I know they usually take a while so I didn’t bother. I waited the process and rushed over to the store to get Jamie’s phone before going back to the office.

“Your assistant wasn’t answering her phone” I looked over my shoulder to see Beth walking up.

“And you couldn’t press another two buttons to call me?” She gave me an annoyed look while I unlocked the door for her.

“You don’t seem to pick up your phone either” I look down at it with the time stamp saying 6 and a miss call from Beth.

“Was in a reservation filing paperwork and staying to make the process faster” I motion to the file in my hand and throw it to the table.

“Have you eaten?” She asked softly, taking a seat.

“Yes mom”

“Don’t tempt me with grounding you, I could pass as your mother” I chuckle, leaning back and closing my eyes. Looking at her wasn’t easy, knowing what she went through and I know Beth wasn’t weak but what she went through wasn’t either. I can’t see the bruises she carries and not imagine those men beating her up. Or the way Rip limped this morning because of the bullets he received that night.

“That would make you 13 when you had me” I look over at her just staring at me.

“I would have made a hot teen mother” We laughed but soon enough it died down.

“What's in your head?” She gets up making herself a drink offering me one but I deny it. I was working late and I didn’t need it to make this night longer.

“My role in this family is to keep it together for the sake of my dad” I shake my head agreeing with her. She was doing all of this for him, I knew that. “Kayce is majorly helping with this but if anything goes wrong with this divorce” She was mainly talking about his son. “Than it could not only affect him, the farm but also my dad”

“I will make it happen”

“I know” She leans back into the chair taking thelast sip of her drink. “What I am saying is that if it makes it easier and cuts the time short then I will take care of the dirty work if you need it.” That was not necessary. I know I could do it.

“Of course Beth” I smile. She sets the cup down and I get up as she heads out the door.

“You don’t need to walk me out. I can take care of myself” She leaves with one last smile closing my office door. Of course I wasn’t listening to her. I walk out after hearing the main door close. I watch her get in her car and drive away safely. I let out a yawn preparing myself for more research and making sure I had everything set on Kayce’s divorce case. Monica had made it clear she wanted full custody and would only allow Tate to visit under her rules. Kayce wanted to pull the same fight but John suggested otherwise. They agreed to go with shared custody. Once I was done with enough for the day I packed everything up again and drove to the ranch. Getting in a late dinner, warm shower, and straight to my bed seemed like a perfect end to the night.

“Get into the car” I was walking up the stairs before releasing Kayce was behind me as he grabbed my things and placed them in the back of a truck. I look over to the driver's seat and see John. I didn’t ask any question as I got in or while we were heading to our destination.

“I just want you to observe and listen” I nod, getting out of the truck together. Officers surrounded the victim on the road. The sheriff approaches John as he is examining the body. It was an officer for Rainwater.

“Am not saying it was you but that it looks like you” It doesn’t sit well with John but knowing Donnie, he knows they are on the same page.

“You can turn around if you want” Kayce says next to me

“Shh” I shush him walking closer to the men speaking but not enough to catch their attention.

“Now we know who did it” Rainwater states looking over to the sheriff

“No evidence other than the bullet in his head”

“That halts construction” Rainwater says lastly, leaving Donnie and John talking. I hear their last words and how John says he's not fazed about an attempt from the Beck brothers. He walks over to Kayce and begins talking to him.

“Native?” I shake my head. “Mexican?” I look over confused at his words. “Am just curious on the kind of person you are”

“Why?” I turn my whole body towards his direction. “Because I am involved with the Dutton family and I should maybe be involved with other people?” I know who I was and what I stood for. Rainwater chuckles a bit, looks behind me and then at me again.

“I’d like to pick your brain someday, if that's okay with you?” I nod. He extends his hand and I shake it before departing towards the Duttons. Kayce looking at Rainwater walks away and I ignore his stare getting into the car. We arrive and I walk directly to the kitchen.

“Do you want a drink now?” I look up from leaning against the island.

“No” I said a little too coldly before taking a cup.

“What are you, 8?” I laugh while finishing pouring milk into my cup.

“I wish” I whisper while walking over to her and we take a seat in the living room.

“What do you have in your agenda tomorrow?”

“Sitting down with Monica and Kayce and following up on a couple other things but I should be free until 10 and finish around lunch time”

“Want to go out tonight?” I haven’t gone out in a while. What could happen?

[lightthewaybackhome]

It’s always a bit difficult to read the books of people you know, or even know sorta second or thirdhand. There’s always the fear that you might not enjoy their book and that uncomfortableness might ensue. I don’t know Carrie Brownell, but I do know the Sarah Gabriel mentioned in the Acknowledgements. As Sarah edited this book, she told me again and again that I needed to read it and that I would like it. I trust Sarah. If she tells me to read something or watch something, I know I’m going to like it, but there is still that little bit of discomfort because what if I don’t like this one? Silly fears. Silly, silly fears.

As I snuggled in to read this middle-grade historical fairy tale, I wondered to myself at what point I would get hooked, what line would be the moment I thought, “Yes, this is it, this is a good book.”

Well, it was the first line.

As soon as I sat down and read “The Rainbow was an extraordinary clipper ship.” I was hooked and happy. Few things fill me with absolutely sheer delight and all the childhood feels like ships from the Golden Age of Sail. They always bring the right cocktail of romance, elegance, imagination, and terror. Ships like the Rainbow so often end up being characters in their own right, which is why this still happens today in Star Trek, Firefly, and Stargate. “And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by.” (Sea-Fever by John Masefield)

I’ve been reading books about ships my whole life and I always want to read more. This book weaves the high seas adventures of the Golden Age of Sail with Irish folklore, and then brings it all into a modern setting. I could not have been happier with this combination because it is what I desired in childhood. I read folktales and I read history and I read fairy tales and longed for my own adventures. I don’t know about other kids, but I feared the time of adventure, real adventure, was long past, that I had missed it by being born in a more modern era. This book allows a kid like I was to find the adventure I longed for.

The book is beautifully written. I underlined many wonderful descriptions that captured my imagination. Description of trees, the sea, the sand, and stars were all painted into the imagination without becoming heavy-handed. Not only was my inner child being fed, but so was my inner writer. Nothing pleases me more than a wonderful description, even one line, about the beauty of trees. (I am not channeling Tolkien…right?)

What I found most refreshing about this book was the children. They were respectful and obedient. Not perfect by any means, and certainly not dull or lacking in imagination and adventure, but they reminded me of how I and my siblings would have behaved, of how we were raised. They felt real. They did not need disrespect and disregard for the adults to have an adventure and save the day. I loved that. I think if I had read this book as a 12-year-old tomboy, I would have disliked Betty and loved Bert. (I still loved Bert.) I would have felt that Betty was too soft and frightened and cried too much. But looking at her through the eyes of an adult, I feel like she is true to form. My nieces, who aren’t growing up with a bunch of boys like I did, are very much like Betty, and that is a good thing. I would have found her a kindred spirit when it came to imagination and fairy tales. Her feeling when she sees the stars is exactly how I felt. I loved that. I adored Bert. What a boy. What a real boy. I loved how the book unapologetically had Bert look out for the girls, lead the way, and join his father up front. I love how none of the girls felt insulted by this. The men in this book are protective and leading, and the girls let them be. No girl bosses to be found. What a drink of cool water in a parched land. The sibling aspects were so well done. I laughed so hard at some points and nodded at how familiar others felt. This is how siblings behave. It felt so very real. I loved that. The scene where they are at Oak Lair collecting acorns and preparing to be stormed by pirates felt like it had been pulled from my own childhood. That was magic.

I appreciated the parental insight this book included. We got little snippets of how the children’s parents were dealing with things and a realistic reaction from the parents at the end. I also appreciated Cordy’s understanding of the parents even as a woman without children. I loved Cordy so much because she was such a mother to the children, especially the twins. I think it is great for children to read that their parents aren’t always sure of what they’re doing and that they have to wrestle with their decisions. This is a good age to give kids the opportunity to see their parents in a new light as people, not just mom and dad. I love the choice the twins' father made to be a father first always. This made me love him immediately.

There is a wholesome air in this book that is like visiting the sea on vacation after you’ve been in the city far too long.

As for the plot twist… I’m going to try not to give spoilers, but I will say I was so pleased with the plot twist. I was getting nervous as I went along because if there wasn’t a plot twist, I was going to be very disappointed. Then it came! Huzzah!

I think this book gives parents and children lots to talk about. It not only can be used to introduce your kids to certain points in history but also to different folklore and fairy tales. It gives you a chance to develop the idea of the Perilous Realms. That fey and faerie are beautiful but not safe. It provides good platforms for discussing choices. This book won’t teach your kids bad behavior or to cut the grownups out of their lives, but it will let you talk to them about how not everything is what it seems and to be discerning and careful. It will also provide parents an opportunity to talk about life and life ending. All in all, a safe book, but not a stale, boring, or bland book.

“It is said to be a reminder that women have the power to change the world through seemingly small acts of heroism when they stand on the side of truth.” This line literally gave me chills.

[fics-n-stuff]

Some Random OBX3 Thoughts and Opinions (full spoilers)

This whole season was on crack. It was fucking wild and I loved it

Put me on Poguelandia. That was so sweet. I want to see what that month looked like, I want to experience that with them

I wanted to see more Wheezie :(

I'm sorry but Big John was so annoying, tryna keep the Pogues out of the loop after they've already been through all this shit

Pope and Cleo are super cute, very sweet relationship. The way she's always teasing him? The fact that his parents immediately love her? Immaculate

What they did with Ward this season was... interesting. I will say though, I'm okay with that being the way he goes out. I'm glad he's actually dead now

Rafe × Barry is alive and well

Topper interlude:

Topper really should have got a clue. Sarah moved on babes, you should move on too

I really thought we were on our way to a Topper redemption arc when he helped them with the train robbery - and I was super happy with that - BUT OH BOY WAS I WRONG

Topper deserved to get his shit rocked by John B. His little snarky comments are absolutely a punchable offence

Everyone was freaking out about John B punching Topper while he was down and I think everyone forgot that Topper literally tried to DROWN JOHN B in season 1

HE BURNED DOWN THE CHATEU!?!? HE WAS PISSED AT SARAH SO HE DECIDED TO ATTEMPT TO MURDER SIX PEOPLE!?!? THAT'S NOT JUST PETTY THAT'S PSHYCHOPATHIC

On the other hand, Sarah should have really just let that boy have some peace and stop stringing him along. Like, I get it it was for the greater good and maybe it was their only option but it was still a bit mean (not that I cared much after Topper attempted to commit SEXTUPLE MURDER BY ARSON)

Sarah was so wrong for kissing Topper. You get in one fight with your boyfriend and you run back to your ex? After everything you've gone through? Weak

When Rafe melted down the cross I died a little inside bro that was so upsetting

SOMEONE GET RAFE SOME THERAPY JESUS CHRIST

Jiara. Was. Great. The looks, the hugs, the lingering moments, the slow build up to the final payoff. Loved it

Jiara's first kiss! Idk if this is controversial but I loved that they had an audience cheering when they kissed, it felt like a little inside joke with the fandom. Like a little "wink wink nudge nudge, we know this is how you at home are feeling rn"

Bit harsh that John B got his dad back just for him to actually die, but at least he got to say goodbye this time

18 month time skip? What happened in that time? What did they do with the gold and how did they get everyone to believe their stories? What happend with the charges Topper filed against John B? How did Rafe react to Ward's death? What about Rose and Wheezie, what did they do? The Pogues are still minors (before the time skip at least) and like half of them don't have legal guardians, I know they're rich now but how did they sort that out?

HOW DARE MIKE AND ANNA SIT IN THE FRONT ROW SMILING AND CLAPPING AS IF THEY DIDN'T TRY TO STOP KIARA FROM ACHIEVING THIS EVERY SINGLE STEP OF THE WAY AND SHIT ON ALL OF HER FRIENDS IN THE PROCESS

ARE WE SERIOUSLY ENDING WITH A BLACKBEARD NAMEDROP?? ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?!? When I say I sat in silence and laughed for a full two minutes after that ending, omg