#but the end part with twyla? that took me OUT

[gloombeaches]

saw a post talking about what the op would keep from g1 and g3. not a bad post to start with. and then the second paragraph is this.

oh no.

oh nooooooooo. yeah. there are definitely some Choices™️ in this post.

i wouldn't say that clawdeen's voice actress was a reason for her personality as opposed to, you know, the personality she has even without her voice actress? (like with the diaries and stuff? which her personality does shine through in them despite the words not being spoken.)

UH??? i can't begin to tell you how bad this is? wanting to eschew a character's canon autism for autism coding? because you think that because people can relate to twyla, they might think that they have autism? or because it would be harder for autistic people to relate to her because they don't share the same symptoms as her? despite autism being a spectrum?

i don't know how to tell you this, but this a bad take. most because people don't really work like that? like at all. i'm sure plenty of autistic people still like twyla even if they're not exactly the same as her.

sorry for the long post, i just needed to show you guys this bc WHEW.

[uzumaki-rebellion]

"King Killmonger: The Golden Jaguar Chapter 3"

Need to catch up? Masterlist HERE.

"I don't see no limits so I strive and I shine twice

I ride around and get it, just listen for a minute

That was only one thought let me finish...

Competition I'ma beat 'em so relentless

I'ma be legendary when I end this

They rise when I arrive in this

"All Hail The Supreme Ice Princess!"

Tell the carriage, hurry up and come and get me

Tell the haters run along you can miss me…"

Azealea Banks – "Ice Princess"

N'Jadaka walked into the sun room filled with a quiet pride.

His favorite family room in the East Palace was decorated and set up for an intimate lunch for two. Elaborate white, blue, and yellow flower bouquets were brought in and the scent of the royal garden saturated the air. He stepped to the window view and peered down at the golden city and felt a connection to the beautiful space. It was his father's favorite room too. The heavenly hue of the sun lit up everything with a soothing glow and the atmosphere was always filled with love whenever he entered that part of the palace.

"Hi."

Yani swept in wearing a different outfit from the one she had on earlier. Her hair had been washed and braided in straitback cornrows decorated with small mauve and light purple flowers at the nape. The puffy sleeves of her purplish-blue dress gave off a matronly feel.

"Hey, baby," he answered.

He held out a hand for her and they kissed before gazing out of the window together. Their servers entered and they took their seats at the lovingly decorated couple's table. Their meal consisted of gourmet seafood, seasoned rice and a salad named after one of N'Jadaka's great-grandfather's creations that contained numerous Wakandan fruits and veggies that had become popular to many outside of the palace.

"I'm starving," Yani said.

She poured a light vinagrette over her salad and they tucked in after their servers left. The ambiance was perfect. Just two busy adults being alone together. The children were with Umama. Dante and Disa's family were getting a private tour and lunch party out on a luxury river boat cruise organized by Twyla and Bibi, and all of their other diaspora relatives were out and about shopping and enjoying life in Birnin Zana.

"I have a surprise for you," N'Jadaka said.

"Oh yeah? What?"

"I can't show you yet. You'll see it at the Court of Nobles banquet. Twyla is keeping it for me until then."

"Hmmm, she didn't even mention anything about it."

"Of course not, I told her not to say anything until the banquet."

They ate more food, stuffing their bellies with seconds. A male server brought in a three layer tray that held various bite-sized desserts and chocolate candies. Yani gobbled up two lemon custards, and three chocolate honey balls. She poured herself a glass of pale amber wine from Umama's personal vineyard and sipped.

"That hit the spot," Yani said.

She rubbed her stomach and N'Jadaka popped a chocolate treat into his mouth.

"Guess who came to my office today?" he asked.

Her bright eyes held a smile in them and her glossy lips peeled back in a grin.

"Is it another surprise?" she said.

"Yeah, in a way it was. Ramatla…your old nanny."

Yani's expression tensed. Normally she would roll her eyes, but instead, she wrenched her gaze away from his face and took another sip of wine. A cool creeping sensation inched up N'Jadaka's core and he pressed her further.

"Something wrong?" he asked.

Yani blinked several times and ran a hand across the back of her neck.

"What did he want?"

He heard the strain in her voice. Placing his hands on the table he tapped a linen napkin with his right thumb.

"He tried to return a gift that you gave him."

He poured more wine into her glass to give her a moment. It looked like she needed to get her words together. He sensed embarrassment and fear.

"I spoke to Umama before I came here. I know what the earrings meant, Yani. I'm surprised you would give him any notice for anything. I thought you hated him."

"Because he tried to kill you."

"Unfortunately, it was his right. No different than me going after T'Challa. I could understand you giving him and his fiancé a harmless token on behalf of our family for appearances sake and cool points among the nobles, but that vine symbol…you must want more trouble," he said.

"It was an impulsive thing to do."

"So why do it?"

She glanced at him and he placed his hand over hers.

"Don't be scared to tell me."

"Zola and Ilana picked it out for me. I wasn't going to give it to them, but I ran into him at the West Palace after Ilana showed me the gift she bought for my wedding. He said some things and it upset me. So I gifted the earrings to him as a warning."

"What did he say?'

She took a deep breath and traced a finger along the stem of her wine glass.

"Please don't get angry."

"Say it."

She flinched at his tone. He hadn't meant to sound gruff, but his intuition jumped into his throat. Her hesitation told him that Remy said something inappropriate.

"He told me he loves me."

Her words floated between them. His jaw tightened. N'Jadaka already knew that. Knew it the moment he stepped into Yani's old suite when the younger man cared for his children. The eyes and tone of voice always gave people away easily to the king since he had been a toddler. He could look at anyone and immediately discern their intentions.

"What else?"

"There's nothing else to say. I was pissed that he would say that to me."

"There's more to it. Men being in love with you is water down your back, girl."

Her energy shifted. He had forced her into talking about something that she wanted to bury, however, he needed to know everything when it came to the slicksters among the nobles. A server approached with a new bottle of wine. He waved his hand signaling he didn't want them disturbed.

Sighing, he leaned back in his seat. He wanted a simple lunch and time to sneak up to their home for some afternoon delights. Yani always made his dick feel heavy in her presence and that feeling grew knowing that Remy approached her in the West Palace to talk slick to her. The urge to carry her away and put it down grew in his gut. Someone wanted what was his and became bold enough to speak out loud.

"He told me that he wanted the kingdom for himself…tried to explain away his reasons for acting how he did at Warrior Falls. Then he said he would've taken me as his wife and put his babies in me."

A bitter laugh erupted from N'Jadaka.

"What did you say to that?" he asked.

"I gave him the gift and congratulated his future marriage."

A silence fell over them. He looked out of the window and thought of a way to ease her nervous energy.

"I never had feelings for him like that—"

He held up a hand to her.

"I don't care about the relationship you may have had with him after you left me. That's the past. His feelings mean nothing to us now. Understand?"

She nodded and smiled.

"If he ever approaches you with some bullshit like that again, tell me. I'll set him straight. He obviously needed to get some shit off his chest so I'll let it slide for now."

Yani's head lowered and she stared at her empty plate.

"When I was in a bad place emotionally and mentally, he helped me get through it."

"Let it go. No need to explain it to me when it obviously hurts you. I know what I did and you taught me a serious lesson. I almost lost you…I'm not letting that happen again."

A slow anger rose up in him. He wanted to kick himself for ever hurting his beautiful sun. The anger bubbled over into a shame that he carried, unable to shake the feeling that he would never quite bury what he had done inside of her heart. He could only imagine how a young virile noble would swoop in and wipe away the sorrow of a fine ass princess. Closing his eyes, he tried to shake away the unease and vivid images that played out in his mind of Yani writhing under a determined suitor all because of his indecisiveness.

The touch of her hand on his forehead brought him back to the world. Yani sat on his lap and hugged him.

"I never slept with him. I know that's what you're thinking about," she said.

"I'm not worried about that. That's your business."

"You say that, but all men, no matter how confident they are, always worry about stuff like that."

"I'm the king of Wakanda."

"And you're worried about some other man having your queen. I didn't want to say anything because I knew it would bother you…even after he gets married. You have to work with him nearly every day, and knowing he loves me will eat at you."

"I won't fire or demote him because of this confession. He's good at his job. Hell, better than good."

"Then take pride in knowing you have me all to yourself. I don't love him…never have. It doesn't matter what he feels about me."

She smothered his face with kisses. Everything she said to him had been true.

Except for one thing she omitted.

They had been intimate.

It may not have been full intercourse, but something else had occurred. He decided to let it go because she truly loved him and no one else. No matter what happened, it was his own fault and Yani didn't have to tell him anything more than what she wanted. He would focus on pleasing her and keeping their family happy.

Yani rushed into the royal sitting room with Twyla by her side and her Ladies-in-Waiting following behind. The wedding coordinator, Erd'na had been a persnickety fellow, and his haughty demeanor amused Yani to no end. He called her for a final overview while she had walked with N'Jadaka back to their home. The king was tired and planned to sleep for a few hours to wind down from his trip abroad. Yani wanted to cuddle with him, but Erd'na was eager to get last minute input from the royal couple. She messaged back letting the coordinator know that she would join him without the king.

"I'll be moved into Grandpop's suite until the wedding later," N'Jadaka said.

"Making me miss you again?"

"Build up some excitement. We'll be together for the banquet after rehearsal, and then…"

His lips pulled back into a grin and his eyes seemed to sparkle.

"Our day," she said.

They hugged and parted. Twyla, Zola, and Ilana met her on the fifth floor and they entered a comfortable room where Umama, Ramonda, Aunt Leona sat waiting in front of a holo vid that displayed several of the wedding celebration venues they would inhabit in forty-eight hours.

"Princess Yani, if there are any changes you'd like to make with this final viewing, let me know," Erd'na said.

Yani sat next to him and pretended to care about tiny details. In truth, she didn't care about changing anything. The preparations were beyond her wildest dreams come true. What she imagined as a naïve little girl back in St. Thomas was nothing compared to the extraordinary celebration the palace put together on their behalf. N'Jadaka didn't care what anything looked like. He wanted to marry her and wasn't concerned about pageantry. Whatever made Yani happy was perfect for him.

Yani loved not having to do anything. A head nod, or a wave of a hand gave her whatever she wanted and Erd'na was a dream maker. She approved the final sea-themed floral designs and scrumptious reception dinner menu. Music and entertainment was finalized and she was pleased to her heart's content. Thematically Erd'na blended the royal history of the Panther Tribe and the Udaku clan's lineage with Yani's Caribbean roots. There would be Black mermaid ice sculptors and ocean decorations for the Temple they would wed in, and the Queen Mary bloodline would complement the wondrous fire and iron art displays created for the guests to admire as the newly wed couple traveled in an ancient carriage through the streets of Birnin Zana. She started crying when she watched images of what the royal garden would look like after her vows were exchanged and Twyla rubbed her back.

"Look at you," Twyla said.

Yani sniffled and Twyla handed her tissues as servers brought in tea and snacks. Erd'na made notes with his kimoyo beads and chatted with Umama and Aunt Leona. Zola and Ilana watched Yani with comforting eyes.

"I'm so happy… I really am. This is a dream come true…no beyond a dream come true. Anything I want I can have and for a woman like me…my past…it's a lot to take in."

"I know," Twyla said. "The big man on the hill changed everything for all of us. Feel what you feel because I totally understand. My cousin is about to become a queen…and she made me a princess with my own prince charming for a husband. Without you and him…there'd be no me and Bibi…"

Twyla burst into tears and the room became a flurry of soothing words and hugs. Zola and Ilana knelt down at Twyla's feet and rubbed her knees as Umama kissed Twyla's forehead hugging her tight.

Aunt Leona cradled Yani's chin.

"I remember when you got so mad that Erik was talking to me back home. You had a hissy fit in my kitchen, but I knew that you liked him. There was something special about him and I never questioned you being with him because God has always looked out for you even when you thought you were at your lowest. He had a good heart, and he loved you from the start. Whenever you were gone he was up under me wanting to know every little thing about you. I thank God every day that he came to our island. This was meant to be."

"I don't know why I'm crying so much, though, Auntie."

"Joy comes through any way it can," Umama added.

Umama wiped her eyes, too and Yani held her hand.

"Watching you wed my grandson will give me peace. It will be like watching my son N'Jobu uniting with his beloved Califia. Bast has allowed me to live long enough to see this day."

She stroked Yani's hair.

"You will make a fine queen on the throne. I will guide you when you need help," Umama said.

Yani nodded and glanced at Ramonda. Her eyes welled up with tears too. An attendant entered the room and approached Ramonda. He whispered in her ear and Ramonda's eyes looked excited.

"Bring it in," Ramonda said.

A young woman entered carrying a large box and set it down on the table in front of Yani. Ramonda waved her hands to have everyone gather around the box.

"An early peek for us," Ramonda said.

Ramonda lifted off the lid and pulled out a gorgeous royal purple isicolo with small exquisite purple and deep blue seashells sewn into the crown that denoted Yani's ties to an island people. She palmed both cheeks with her hands and stared at her queen's crown with wide eyes. Once it sat on her head after their wedding vows, she could wield all kinds of power in their land and the world. She lifted it in her hands.

"I don't know why my hands are shaking," she said.

Umama touched her shoulder.

"You recognize the responsibility that comes with that crown, daughter," Umama said.

"Auntie," Yani whispered.

Leona lifted her fingers to her lips.

"Queen," Leona said.

Zola and Ilana lowered their heads at Leona's declaration. Yani placed the crown back in the box and had it delivered to her home. She spent the last few minutes thanking the wedding coordinator and left the other women to chat more and enjoy themselves without her.

Making her way to the East Palace game room, she caught up with Shuri and Nakia who took charge of entertaining and watching over forty children all under the age of thirteen who ripped and roared around toys, holo vid games, and a full table of snacks. The youngsters were a blend of island relatives, American cousins, and Udaku kin brought together away from the teenaged relatives who occupied another floor under strict supervision also. Attendants and various nannies darted around helping Nakia and Shuri control the joyous chaos of delighted shouts and non-stop running from every direction.

Yani watched Joba lead a small charge of girls her age playing double dutch and teaching their Wakandan relatives how to turn the ropes. Sydette stayed busy running around with a fake ray gun shooting holographic images in a far section of the room with other girls and boys trying to defeat a giant ogre that shimmered in full 3D. Riki participated in a game of Wakandan chess, his face scrunched up in complete concentration.

Shuri looked to be having the time of her life moving around and interacting with various games. She was a natural with children and she held onto Toussaint's hand helping him see the bigger kids playing. His chubby legs were ready to carry him into toddler-hood and Shuri let the one-year-old walk by himself every now and then to give him agency.

"How is it going?" Yani asked Nakia.

"The energy in this room is through the roof, but I love it," Nakia said.

Nakia seemed happier and more open than she had been in months and Yani was pleased to see it. Everyone in the family hoped she would change her mind about moving to Haiti after the wedding, but Nakia was determined to stay there even if it was for less than a year. The need to get away from Wakanda became a necessary balm for her, and Yani didn't push her to stay.

Nakia waved for Shuri to bring Toussaint over to her. She lifted the baby in her arms and rocked him.

"He looks tired," Yani said, touching the boy's thick hair.

"Yeah, we're going to head back to our suite and rest before dinner tonight."

"I'm going to do the same," Yani said.

Riki ran over to her with a frown on his face.

"What's wrong, Dumpling?"

"I lost to Luzuko. I can never beat him. Once I figure out his strategy I'll burn him next time," Riki said.

"Are you ready to come up to our home?"

"No."

"You haven't had a nap today."

"Don't need one."

"You sure? We have a lot to do tonight with our guests. What if you crash out?"

"I won't."

"Okay. Shuri will have you all here for another hour. I'll see you soon."

He hugged her waist tight, tighter than he normally would.

"What's that for?" she asked.

Riki looked up into her eyes.

"I love you and I'm happy for you and Baba getting married."

The tone of his voice sounded odd, as if something had been on his mind and he had come to an understanding. She didn't question him further. Hugging him back, she bent down and gave him a kiss on his forehead.

Yani left the playroom with Nakia and they parted ways at separate elevators. She rode up by herself to the king and queen's floor and entered her quiet home feeling good about the day.

Except…

She brushed the hint of unease away thinking about her conversation with N'Jadaka over lunch. Remy showing up in the king's office was unexpected. N'Jadaka appeared unbothered, but she did catch an undercurrent of something festering in his mind despite his assurances of letting the matter go.

N'Jadaka was a confident man. He was also a jealous man. She witnessed several times back home how he seemed to not care about other men wanting her, but would spin the block later when he got in his feelings about others wanting what he had to root out any notions of anything going further.

She went into her changing room and slipped out her clothes into a more relaxed silky orange house dress that made her feel cozy in her own private space away from the extended family and guests running all around the palace. Pulling the flowers from her hair, she placed them on her bed pillows and then walked up the stairs to reach N'Jadaka's third floor bedroom. She walked in with bare feet and studied his form on the bed.

The king slept soundly on his side, his right arm thrown around a pillow. His locs were spread out freely and his breathing appeared deep and relaxed. Yani perched herself on the chair next to the nightstand and watched him rest. He was a beautiful man in his sleep. The world rested on his capable shoulders and he worked hard to show Wakandans he was worthy of leadership. She didn't want him harboring any thoughts about other men or her personal battles with the nobles. He had enough to contend with and their wedding celebration needed to be three days of love and laughter before they took off on their honeymoon.

Yani knelt before the bed and clasped her hands in prayer. Bowing her head she prayed to her humble God that brought her from the bottom to the top of the mountain. She thanked her lord and savior for the children, her family, and for the man slumbering inches from her lowered head. She prayed to give him strength and peace in his mind.

When she raised her head up from her silent communion, N'Jadaka's eyes were open. He studied her expression and reached out to touch her face.

"How long have you been here?" he asked.

"Not long."

He stretched out and looked around the room.

"Where are the kids?"

"Still playing."

He glanced at his kimoyo beads.

"Damn, I slept longer than I intended. I was supposed to be gone from here until the wedding night."

"I'll pretend I didn't see you."

"Too late," he said, reaching for her waist and pulling her on top of him.

N'Jadaka held her and she listened to his heart beat. They snuggled for a time and enjoyed the stillness of their surroundings. There were no demands from anyone to do anything and they relished the moment.

"Okay now, you better get on outta here and let me pack up to go be with Grandpop," he whispered in her ear.

Yani pretended to fret and wiggled all over him.

"Nah, don't try that stunt…rubbing all on me and shit. Go on and get…"

He smacked her rump and pushed her away from his nude body. Yani reluctantly left the room, disappointed that they wouldn't fool around before the children returned. Slinking down the stairs to her floor, she went into her bedroom and stared at her face in the mirror. She grinned and ran to her dressing room, snatching up a cute new red wig.

The clock was ticking.

Yani slid the wig over her braids and styled it carefully before putting on seductive make-up. Changing clothes, she switched out the cozy house dress for a naughty candy apple red negligee. Instead of taking the stairs, she went across the wide expanse of the first floor to take the secret elevator past king and queens used for their unspoken paramours. She re-entered N'Jadaka's bed chamber through a hidden passageway behind an antique wall tapestry as he packed up a bag of personal toiletries on a bedroom couch.

"What are you doing, Yani?" he said.

His lips pulled back into a salacious smile when he noticed the outline of her body in the sexy outfit.

"My name is…Toya. I'm your toy to play with while your fiancé is away. I used the secret passage to remain discreet for you King N'Jadaka."

His dick jumped. Yani played coy about noticing it. She walked slowly toward him and he relaxed into the unexpected role playing.

"I like a woman who knows to respect my privacy," he said.

The tone of his voice made Yani halt in her steps.

"Turn around," he commanded.

She twirled on her toes knowing the sheer lace on the back of her negligee accentuated her ass cheeks. Turning back around she ogled the way his dick thickened and raised higher until it pointed at her.

"You're lucky my fiancé didn't catch you coming in here. She'd be mad as fuck. Bring your pretty ass over here," he said.

Yani flung back the curly flip in her red wig and stepped closer. N'Jadaka licked his fingers and stroked her vulva and she gasped at how wet she had become playing an illicit character for his pleasure.

"Pussy all nice and wet for me. I like that, Toya."

He said the fake name like it was real and she sank into the role even more.

"I'm here to please you in any way you like, your highness."

"Then get on your knees and suck this dick before my wife comes back here."

Yani's pussy easily clenched as it accepted the new portrayal. N'Jadaka reached out and ripped the negligee off startling her. He tossed it on the chair near his travel bag. His eyes didn't look at her like she was Yani anymore. He was dealing with Toya and expected her to comply with his demands. She dropped to her knees and he held the back of her head, jamming his dick in her mouth.

"Dassit, suck on that big dick. I've been thinking about your ass all day Toya. Been waiting for you to show up and take care of me."

Yani groaned on his dick feeling conflicted on hearing the way he spoke to her. His words sounded too real, like he had always had women on demand when she was out of sight. Her stomach flip-flopped with feelings of arousal and a hint of uncertainty. They'd role-played before, but this time, coming up through the secret consort's entrance had elevated the game. It didn't feel like adult make-believe anymore.

She crammed his dick in her throat and tried to keep up with the thrusts that were overzealous in her mouth. Stretching her lips wide, she sucked and worked her neck. He lorded over her, touching the hair of her wig softly, urging her to keep going.

"It's been a few days since I've had some pussy. Yani and I have been busy and…ooh shit…right there girl…fuck…you handling that pipe. Don't have that shit spittin' too soon now, Toya…you my new bitch so I gotta teach you how to handle all this right…"

Yani's clit throbbed and the wings of her labia fell open.

"Ain't got much time…keep sucking…dassit….harder…"

N'Jadaka moaned and she cupped his balls, squeezing them gently. Taking a break from sucking, she released the engorged head of his dick and caught her breath. He lifted her body and threw her on the bed.

"Open them legs!"

Yani parted her thighs quickly. He wasn't wasting time on any foreplay with her.

"This pussy better be tight. You fucking the king…pussy gotta be perfect for me," he grunted.

Gripping his dick, he pushed the head against her opening and she gulped in air.

"Ah yeah… nice and deep…"

The first thrust forced her to cry out and she clutched onto his back and held on.

"Betta not tell nobody you was up here before my wedding…hear me?" he barked.

He shouted at how good she felt and she whimpered under him trying to fathom how fast he had turned into a ravenous beast needing pussy so bad from her playful Toya persona. He fucked her like he hadn't had sex in months, not mere days. The rawness in his voice grabbed her heart.

"Work be having me stressed…nigga got responsibilities up the wall…I need a woman like you to make me feel better. I'ma need you to come back again another time. Can you do that for me?"

"Yes!" she shouted.

He lifted her up and held her against him with her ass up in the air only inches above the mattress of his round bed.

"I need a bitch that can fuck me on a moments notice. I may need you in my office…even on my throne. I ain't never fucked Yani on the throne, but I'd fuck you there…"

She started cumming.

Listening to him rant about all the places he wanted to fuck where they hadn't done before heightened the pleasure of their sexcapade. He wanted to cheat on her…with her. She laughed after the trembling of her climax reached her legs that were wrapped around his waist.

"I'ma cum in your ass!"

He dropped her on the bed and held her legs wide. Inserting only three inches into her anus, he released a thick geyser of semen and watched his dick throb as it pushed it out from his balls. Pulling out, he jerked off above her until another orgasm took over and he shot long white ropes across her stomach and chest.

N'Jadaka checked his kimoyo beads again.

"You gotta get up outta here. My kids are on their way."

His dick remained hard, and Yani knew he needed to spill into her again. She fondled his tip and stuck the top of her pinky finger in the wide slit.

"You don't want to cum in my pussy?" she purred.

"What makes you think you deserve my cum in your pussy?"

His brusque tone shocked her. She lifted up from the bed. He grabbed a pair of lounge pants from a chair and pulled them on, then tied his hair back with a leather string.

Yani found herself becoming jealous. Although she was simply playing a part, it stung to hear him talk to her in such an abrupt manner. He was truly treating her like a side concubine. He glared at her when he turned around to finish packing for their honeymoon trip.

"Why are you still here?" he asked with a tinge of annoyance.

Yani stayed put.

"Bitch, my kids will be here soon. The fuck you think you doing? We're done here."

He pulled her away from his bed and pushed her toward the tapestry secret exit. Yani smacked his hand and snatched off her wig. N'Jadaka put a hand over his mouth and looked over his shoulder before tugging her elbow over to his bedroom desk.

"What are you doing back here, Yani?"

She punched his chest and he laughed at her.

"Baby, the expression on your face right now is priceless. Why you mad?" he said.

"That was so mean! You just fuck me and kick me out so rudely?"

"I fucked Toya and kicked her out. She did what she came to do."

He cocked his head to the side.

"What?"

"I can't believe you would treat a woman like that," she said.

He turned his head to the side and made a weird facial expression.

"Sometimes that's just how it is, baby. Back in my past, anyway. C'mon now, why the pouty face? This was fun."

Yani gathered her torn negligee and pulled on one of his long shirts from his suitcase to cover herself.

"I wasn't expecting it to seem so real. For a minute, mi feel like you wasn't mine y'know? You sounded cold… like you were throwing away some used tissue."

He ambled over and wrapped her inside warm loving arms.

"I didn't mean to make you feel bad. I was just acting out a part. You made Toya fun for me. Any man would be happy to have a woman who can become any type of lover he desires for a night."

Yani puckered her lips and he kissed her softly. Much softer than when she was the other woman. He brushed a hand over her wig.

"Hmmm…I like that Toya chick. Tell her to swing that ass my way again on the honeymoon," he teased.

Yani rolled her eyes and hustled out of his bedroom and headed back to hers.

She showered and dried off before the children scampered into the house making all kinds of noise up and down the stairs searching for N'Jadaka. Before Yani joined them down in the living room, her kimoyo beads lit up with the king's signature. She checked it before leaving her bedroom. N'Jadaka left her a note and dick picture. She smirked at the note. He had written it as if she were Toya asking to see her at the family pool later that night.

"So nasty," she said.

Joba waited for her in their family room holding a manicure tray filled with purple-colored fingernail polish, cotton balls and various nail decorations.

"Come over here," Yani said, guiding the little girl toward an ottoman in front of a loveseat.

Yani took the bottle of polish and shook it while Joba spread her right hand on the tray resting on a small tea table.

"Stars or hearts?" Yani asked, admiring the nail decorations as she swabbed down Joba's nails with a cleaning solution.

"Both…stars on my right and hearts on my left," Joba said.

"Did you have fun with all your cousins?"

"Yes. Auntie Shuri taught us how to play shushu iingqalutye and I beat everyone except for Sydette and Entle."

"You have quick hands then," Yani said.

Joba grinned and watched Yani spread color on her nails.

"Did something happen to Riki today?" Yani asked.

"No."

"He seemed extra nice in the game room."

"Oh…Umama told him about himself after Baba came home this morning."

"Why?"

Joba fidgeted in her seat and Yani held the polish brush above her small thumb.

"He doesn't like all the stuff happening for the wedding because he doesn't get to be with you and Baba so much. Umama made us go to the big family room and look at all the paintings. She told us to think about what we saw there."

Yani's lips bunched up and Joba waved her hand quickly.

"Me and Sydette aren't like that. We like all the fun happening…but Riki…it makes him feel lonely for the way it used to be before now."

"I know it's been a lot for everybody. He usually likes all the fuss with everyone around."

"He's better now. We all went back to Umama and she talked to him for a long time. He was happy again."

Yani stared into Joba's eyes.

"I love you very much, Joba. If you ever want to talk to me about how you're feeling about anything happening, you can come to me at any time, hear mi?"

Joba nodded.

"I want to be the best mother for you—"

"You are."

"I've been so proud watching you grow up. It hasn't been easy for you this year…for any of us. But you are my daughter, Riki's twin really, and I will make sure you have the best life."

Joba nodded and Yani continued doing her nails until they were sparkly and made the girl grin with sarisfaction.

"Can I have a hug?" Yani asked.

Joba threw her arms around Yani's neck. N'Jadaka stuck his head in the room.

"Hey, I'm heading out with my stuff," he said.

Yani and Joba walked over to him. An attendant carried away his three bags and the other two children joined them.

"What's the point of you leaving when we'll see you at all the meals anyway?" Sydette asked.

N'Jadaka pulled on her hair and she grabbed his fingers back.

"You won't see me until the banquet tomorrow night and then the wedding day," N'Jadaka said.

Yani's eyebrows darted up.

"I'm building up anticipation," he said. "Y'all wanna walk me over to Granpop's or stay here with Mama?"

"I'll go with you," Riki said.

The girls opted to stay.

"Okay, see you tomorrow night then," N'Jadaka said.

He leaned over and kissed Yani on her cheek before leaving with their son.

"Mama do my nails too," Sydeytte said glancing at her sister's hands.

"Go pick your color and meet me in the family room," Yani said.

Sydette darted off with Joba and Yani's kimoyo beads lit up. Zola's form floated above Yani's wrist.

"Yani, Lady Ime contacted me and wants to speak to you in private," Zola said.

Zola's eyes looked shiny and amused by the turn of events.

"Tell her I'm busy with preparations and will see her at the banquet tomorrow night."

"As you wish."

The smirk on Zola's face grew prominent.

"You just couldn't wait to convey that to me," Yani clucked.

"This is the juiciest scandal since…well since the revelations about Prince N'Jobu…no King N'Jadaka showing up in Wakanda. I live for this type of drama, especially with Lady Ime. Do you know how long I've waited for someone to have the upper hand on her?"

Zola squinted her eyes and tilted her head.

"What will you say to her?" Zola said.

"Depends on what she wants to talk to me about."

"Well, we all know it's about the earrings."

"Goodbye, Zola."

Yani tapped her beads and wandered around her immense home. There was so much room on every floor that she wondered if they needed to move to a more appropriate suite. Queen Shuriya's former home was built for a large polyamorous family with a dozen children.

She gazed at the artwork and antiques, padded across plush rugs and polished floors and took in all the riches that surrounded her. Deep down she was still the same humble young girl who worked hard all her life to survive. Sometimes it was still difficult to accept the immense wealth she now possessed. She passed by Kora who made warm drinks for the girls and Yani went back to the family room to meet up with Sydette and Joba. Jade was the color Sydette chose for her nails and Yani painted and hummed, listening to her daughters chat about riding in a carriage.

While she placed the last gold half moons on the tip of Sydette's thumbnail, her kimoyo beads lit up again. She froze and Joba sensed the ambivalence in her demeanor.

"You okay, Mama?" Joba asked.

"It's just so busy. Every time I turn around, someone needs me for something. You two go and decide what to wear tomorrow for the banquet," Yani said.

The girls scampered away, and Yani listened for their footsteps to fade before looking at her beads again.

Remy's avatar floated waiting for her to accept or decline his call.

N'Jadaka strolled through the wide hall leading toward Dante's suite with Riki by his side. His son remained quiet for most of the walk to his great-grandfather's home and he waited for the boy to break the silence.

"Baba, do you have to stay away from us until Saturday?"

"I don't have to."

"Can I come with you?"

The yearning in Riki's voice halted N'Jadaka.

"Is that what you want to do?"

"Yes."

"Won't you miss the fun tonight?"

"I miss you."

A few loose tears fell down Riki's face. His voice became rushed.

"I didn't mean to be rude when you came home…I learned my lesson from Umama—"

"Slow down, Dumpling. Take a deep breath and then speak."

"I'm happy you and Mama are getting married. It's important to the family and I know you are the best king ever and people want to see it happen. It's hard sharing you sometimes. You're gone from home a lot, and Mama is too…even though I know you're both doing important things to help other people. I want to be selfish a lot, especially now. Umama keeps reminding me that I have to get used to this because that's a part of being an Udaku."

N'Jadaka listened and held Riki's hand.

"Things will settle down after me and your Mama tie the knot, okay? In two weeks you and the girls will join us on the boat and we'll finally have time with ourselves…no one else."

Riki looked excited about that.

"We can swim, fish, eat on the boat, snorkel, visit water caves, and see parts of Wakanda that we never knew existed. Just us," N'Jadaka said.

More tears fell from the boy's eyes and N'Jadaka hugged him. Riki wiped at his wet face.

"It's normal to feel what you feel Lil Man. I miss you all too when I have to work and take care of the country, or spend time away from Wakanda. When I was your age, I missed my Baba when he had to travel. I think about you and your sisters when I'm gone. I don't like being away from you either."

Riki appeared more relaxed after hearing N'Jadaka's words. Knowing he was on his father's mind soothed the tension in his body. The boy smiled and clung to N'Jadaka's hand. N'Jadaka lifted Riki up in his arms and bounced him on his hip.

"Your feelings matter to me, Riki. I do what I do to make the world better for you. I will always try to limit being away from us when I can. That may mean bringing you and the girls where I am or making sure your Mama is in constant contact with me no matter where I am."

"You are important, Baba. I know this. Umama is helping me understand."

"Good. Love you."

Riki gripped his neck tight and N'Jadaka rubbed his back. Dante opened his door and watched them approach.

"Hey…your stuff got here and I was wondering where you were," Dante said.

"We have an extra roommate," N'Jadaka said.

"We got lots of room in here," Dante said.

N'Jadaka put Riki down and the boy ran inside.

"Umama already filled me in about him," Dante said, "Spending time with you is just what he needs tonight. We can have our own slumber party."

N'Jadaka touched his grandfather's arm.

"Grandpop, how were you able to get through being away from my Mom for so long?"

Dante took a deep breath and let N'Jadaka into his home. They walked over to his living room wall bar and sat on low stools. Dante poured them full glasses of wine. Riki checked out the fish aquarium that ran along the far wall.

"I prayed a lot, and your mother visited me every chance she got. The quality of the time was most important because God knows the quantity was lacking. Riki only wants to know that you feel the same way he does. Try writing him little notes and putting them in random places for him to find. Califia used to love that before I was locked away and after with Nana's help. Getting my letters and calls made the separation bearable. Knowing that she was on my mind constantly gave her solace. Once she grew older, her life became busier and then it was my turn to fret."

"He's a sweet boy," N'Jadaka said. "I want him to know only happiness."

Riki pointed to a long, slinky fresh water fish with silver stripes.

"Baba, come look at Grandpop's new fish!"

N'Jadaka left his grandfather's side and looked over the additions to the aquarium. When Riki's interest waned he pulled his father over to a new berimbau Dante hadn't finished adding wire to and soon after, they played with hand drums, jamming together as three generations until it was time for dinner.

A buffet style meal setting was the order of the evening on the moon deck and N'Jadaka bounced from table to table with Riki chatting with older family members who declined to go out into the city with younger kin to have a splendid supper. He sunk deep into the comforts of elder energy and sat next to Aunt Leona and Umama who presided over a full table of uncles and mature cousins who shared tall tales. Riki became an avid listener as he stuffed himself with good food and jovial company.

At another table, Yani spent time with Sydette and Joba who seemed transfixed by Zinzi and M'Baku's wife Ayomide. He glanced at Yani from time to time and she gave him seductive eyes and knowing smiles that reminded him of the text and images he sent her. They barely interacted during the supper because of various family members being so entertaining at their respective tables. It wasn't until the dessert buffet was brought that they spent all of two minutes speaking.

"Riki wants to stay with me and Granpop," he told her.

"That sounds like fun for him. The girls are staying with Shuri later for movies in the family theater with the other children. I'm going to do some reading and rejoice in the quiet before all the rush of tomorrow."

"Guess we'll both be busy," he said.

"Yeah," she said.

He returned to his table and gave Riki a plate of soft berry cream and American-style pound cake. Back in Dante's home, N'Jadaka rubbed his full belly and talked to his son and grandfather until both fell asleep. He carried Riki into a guest room they shared for the night and watched his son sleep soundly curled against him. Love flowed out from him as he stroked his son's twisty hair. Riki was growing into an intelligent and well-behaved prince. The trickster in him had mellowed out as he grew bigger, and the steady transformation humbled N'Jadaka.

N'Jobu used to tell Califia with a surprised voice about every new discovery he made about N'Jadaka when he had been young, and in a soft bed of his father's homeland, the king understood the tinge of sorrow in his father's declarations. Children grew up so fast and parents missed so much without realizing it until it was too late. He vowed to keep his children close so he could also tell Yani about every wonderful milestone.

Riki's eyes moved under his lids and his hand reached for his chest in his sleep. N'Jadaka observed a smile come across the child's lips as he slept. Good dreams. He kissed Riki's forehead and snuggled under the covers with him until it grew late.

The alarm on his kimoyo beads warmed up his wrist and vibrated. A message from Toya. He grinned.

N'Jadaka slipped out of the bed and wandered into the living room. Grandpop stayed up late watching a Wakandan comedy show with closed captions. He still struggled with the language and slang of the Wakandan youth and needed the extra help in deciphering the jokes.

"I thought you were staying the night," Dante said.

"I am. I'm heading up to the royal library for a little bit. I started thinking about something and unfortunately, the book I need isn't digitized. Wanna go check on something I heard at dinner. Be back soon. If he wakes up, tell him I'm coming right back."

"Okay."

N'Jadaka slipped on some comfortable slides and left the suite quickly.

Toya's message informed him that the palace pool was a no-go because some younger relatives were using it for a late night swim party. Their secret liaison would have to take place on the family archive floor that many avoided unless they needed to research something.

Moving past late night staff and guards, he took on the air of doing important business. Hopping on an elevator, he opened up images sent to him that revealed the wet pink he was about to dive into.

The family library beckoned him further into the illicit encounter. The modern features of the opening vestibule changed into the more antiquated setting of the private reading room where he was headed. A warm fire in the fireplace and low amber lights created a romantic ambiance. Yani draped her nude body across a blanket-covered reading couch with plush pillows propped around her for more comfort. The saturated red of her new wig appeared muted from the light of the fireplace. A smooth wave of hair covered her left eye. Her impeccable make-up gave her the sensual allure of a stranger. He could find no trace of his sweet Yani anywhere on that couch. The transformation into a vixen was complete perfection. N'Jadaka almost felt guilty standing there staring at her breasts. From her position, he noticed how puffy her vulva looked. It even glistened in the firelight.

"You made it," she said with a soft tone.

"I can't stay long. I have my son with me."

He slowly took off his outer shirt and unfastened the silk undershirt, throwing them both on a chair across from Yani…Toya. Pulling down his pants, his dick bulged from his underwear. He tossed the garment on the floor and wiggled out of his drawers, releasing hard flesh.

She lifted from her reclining position and opened her thighs, her hand dropping to her crotch to fondle sticky labia. The jeweled piercings all over her tender parts became forbidden treasure he was discovering for the first time. Her eyes appeared as mere slits of arousal and the crackle of the fire pushed him to move closer. He wanted to smear her lipstick with his dick. Gripping the base above his balls, he tapped the head on her lips and she opened wide, giving him slow tortuous sucking that made his glutes tense. His pre-cum lubricated her mouth and her lipstick turned into slash of messy color past her lip line.

"Toya," he moaned.

Yani stopped sucking and gazed into his eyes. She studied his face with the mushroom cap tip of his length resting against her parted, swollen lips. He grabbed her head with both hands and forced her mouth back open, jamming his dick into the warm cavern, groaning as he did so. Her mouth pulsed all around his dick. He swallowed hard.

"We betta hurry…" he groaned as a shiver flew up his back.

His balls throbbed like they were ready to unleash the heavy load they carried. She licked around the ridge of his tip and kissed all over his balls. Her tongue ran along the seam under his sack and he gripped her neck.

"I don't have time to waste," he hissed.

She ignored his words and sucked his dick with careful attention from root to tip. Deep throating him, her eyes became watery and her lipstick painted parts of his meat pale crimson. He stretched her lips and she hummed, the vibration adding texture to the slippery feel of her cheeks, and the suction of her tongue.

"Ah damn…you nasty little…."

He jammed his eyes closed feeling the eruption of his cum drench her mouth unexpectedly. N'Jadaka lifted on his toes, "Toya!" he shouted, peppering the air with curses and pleased moans.

She swallowed everything.

He touched her mouth gently after pulling out. She squeezed the heft of his hardness and then made room for him on the couch behind her. The warmth of the fire bathed them in orange heat.

"Fuck me, King," Yani said.

"Shit," he gasped.

His fingers fumbled trying to get his dick in place between her thighs. She shifted to help him and he plunged into her pussy with wild thrusts. He grabbed a breast and palmed the weight before fingering her clit.

"I want you to cum all over this big, hard dick," he grunted, slamming his dick at an angle that made her pussy clench tighter.

"Fuck me, bitch," he commanded, burying his face in her neck with huffs of pleasure.

Yani pushed against the armrest of the couch to give her leverage and she slammed her ass against him, making sure she squeezed that tight pussy at the same time. He played with her wet labia and plucked at her clit with precision eliciting ragged sighs from her. She panted and whined at how big he was, filling her up with too much dick.

N'Jadaka held her by her neck and took over their raucous fucking. The old couch creaked and they both heard the noise her pussy made with his deep plunges. He lifted his thigh in a new position and took her by a force beyond his control. An overwhelming desire to dominate her body surged through his powerful hips. The loud smack of his crotch against her ass accentuated every strong thrust. Yani started sputtering useless words and her body collapsed against his.

"I feel it baby," he shouted, "Keep cumming…keep cumming…."

Yani's head dropped forward and her legs trembled. He kept right on swirling gentle circles around her clit and pressed his dick harder against the spot that wrecked her.

"Lay back for me…"

He helped her switch positions and snaked down her midsection to place his mouth over her vulva. His lips smacked and his tongue teased her all over her labia as he sopped up her orgasm into his mouth. She tugged on his locs to pull him up for more dick, but he slapped her hands away and indulged in the aftermath of her pleasure, glossing up his cheeks in the process.

He kissed and smothered his full lips all over her vulva until she came again, screaming his name and yanking on his hair. His kimoyos vibrated. The alarm he set for himself reminded him to get back to Riki. He pushed Yani's thick thighs back and buried his dick inside her pussy, never giving her a chance to catch her breath.

"I gotta go back to my son. I don't know when I can see you again," he said through gritted teeth and a hunched back.

"I want to see you after the banquet tomorrow."

"I can't."

"Why not?"

He seized her throat and pushed her down hard on the couch. With his face inches from hers, he bared his slugs at her with a menacing anger.

"I see you when I want to see you. Not the other way around. Hear? Your job is to pleasure me when I want it."

She poked out her lips and narrowed her eyes.

"Do you understand your place?" he barked.

She struggled against his hand, her anger palpable. He frowned. His dick became harder in her pussy. She was pushing his kink buttons by acting bratty. He pumped into her with long daddy strokes, the gushy sounds weakening her resolve to back chat him. His balls felt so heavy again.

"I'll tell your fiancé about us," she blurted as her head whipped back and forth.

All that threatening she did hadn't stopped her from catching deep dick. She wanted him angry. Wanted him rough.

"You won't tell her shit."

He locked Yani into position and pounded her righteously. His dick kept tugging her clit and the friction of their bodies smashed together in a fury of tangled limbs. Her ankles were up by her earlobes by the time he slowed up his thrusts to tease his release. Tears leaked from her eyes.

"Please…cum in my pussy!"

"After you acted so disrespectful to your king?"

"I want you to myself."

"But you can't."

"I'm your favorite."

"I just met you."

"You already know I am."

He grinned. She was right. Out of all of her play personas, Toya was top choice.

"Don't you need this pussy?" she begged.

She lowered her legs and peeled back her labia so he could admire the tunnel he pressed open that swallowed him in pulsing pink. Her fingernails trailed across the scars on his lumpy skin. He rocked into her slowly and her titties bounced.

"I need this pussy," he confessed in a moment of weakness.

Her smile lit up her face. Everything about her was different. She had become a new entity. Something so forbidden and taboo that his dick couldn't tell the difference. Her pussy walls seemed brand new and that excited him more.

"You 'gon' make me nut, girl," he bleated out.

His dick throbbed and she wound her hips, staring up at him with bewitching eyes, making their union hotter.

"Make a mess in my pussy…use me King, I'm all yours…whenever you want this pussy. I'm your favorite…cum…cum deep inside of me…"

Her lovemaking captivated him. His kimoyo beads vibrated again, and he was ashamed that he ignored them like he was truly ignoring his son in real life. Yani fucked him like she had never fucked him before and he found that impossible to believe, but there she was, writhing under him like some sinewy goddess he never encountered in life ever.

"She doesn't fuck you like this…does she?" Yani asked.

He could only shake his head and thrust forward, sheathing his dick in blissful heat that dragged him away from his responsibilities as a father and husband. He had never cheated before in a relationship and he began to understand the appeal of illicit unions. Getting caught was a kink he liked with Yani, but it became more thrilling with her pretending to be Toya in a clandestine relationship.

He kissed her, lolling his tongue around hers and even the taste and feel of that muscle became distinct. Lifting up on his arms, he fucked his lover until her eyes rolled back and he spurted a sea into her womb. He hollered during his release and began to laugh with her when his voice went hoarse from braying like some damn moose.

Yani jumped up from the couch and ran to use the library restroom. He fell back into the protective blanket covering and caught his breath again. His body was soaked in enough sweat to fill up his grandfather's aquarium. He heard kimoyo beads vibrating that didn't come from his wrist. Glancing around, he noticed Yani's red robe crumpled on the thick rug near the couch. A pocket glowed. He wondered if she set an alarm too, or if their daughters were summoning her after bedtime. He hooked a finger inside the pocket pulling out the beads to check them in case it was Sydette or Joba.

No avatar floated up when he pulled the beads out. The code was unknown when he looked it over. Yani returned and her demeanor changed when she spotted him holding her beads.

"It rang and lit up. Thought it might be the girls," he said, handing the beads out to her.

She took them and looked at the code.

"I don't know this number. I've been getting so many different ones popping up since I connected to my office line with the new staff working for me."

She gave a nervous laugh and he sat upright on the couch. It stopped vibrating and lighting up. He retrieved his clothes and they both dressed quickly. Yani smoothed down the hair on her tousled wig still carrying the sexy façade of Toya.

"I'll take my leave first, King N'Jadaka," she said.

He nodded and her kimoyo beads vibrated and lit up on her wrist.

"Must be important," he said, waiting for her to answer it.

She hesitated and the air between them thickened with an unwanted tension. Guilt floated in her eyes. She tapped the button and he watched her visibly hold her breath.

"This is a test of the queen's emergency messaging system…"

A nasally automated voice broke the rigid energy in the room and Yani giggled. Relief filtered through her facial expression. Her shoulders relaxed and she folded up the damp blanket they frolicked on. He left the room to go to the restroom. His urine struck the toilet bowl in a long stream that went on for a long time. He flushed then washed his hands and face. Staring at his reflection in an oval mirror, he tried to figure out what Yani was hiding from him. The only thing that would startle her like that was Remy. That first call had to be from him with an unlisted number. Who else would reach out to her late at night thinking she would be isolated to take the call in private?

He shook his head and a painful throbbing started in his left temple. They couldn't start a marriage with secrets.

N'Jadaka pounded his bare feet back into the library den and startled Yani. She had wrapped her hair in a headwrap and carried the blanket in a bag. Her body was covered in a long overcoat and she slipped her feet into dainty sandals.

"Call back that number that came before the automated message," he said.

Yani stared at him and the guilt was back in her eyes. Guilt and fear.

"He contacted you again, didn't he?"

The sharpness in his voice didn't surprise anyone. She flinched, but didn't break eye contact.

"Not with that number. I don't know who that was, but he tried to call me earlier. I didn't answer him and blocked the number."

"I told you to tell me if he ever did that."

"Lady Ime wanted to talk to me. I figured since I didn't want to speak to her that he was calling on her behalf. I blocked the call, okay? There was no need to say anything in the middle of our wedding prep time. I was going to tell you eventually. Let's not make this a big deal. I shouldn't have given them the gift."

N'Jadaka ran a hand over his locs and leaned against the couch.

"The gift doesn't even matter at this point. He doesn't care about that. It's an excuse to talk to you."

He glared at her.

"Call the number, Yani."

"I don't want to. It's late. I'll call it in the morning."

"We'll be busy tomorrow. Why don't you want to call him?"

"We don't even know if it's him or not."

"So call it. Let me set him straight in front of you so that we are all very clear on what this is."

Her lips trembled. Watery eyes watched his taut face.

"Baby, I'm not mad at you…I'm irritated with him."

Yani wiped her right eye and tapped her kimoyo. An empty white avatar circle floated above her wrist and they both waited for the call to be picked up.

Chapter 4 HERE.

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[bubblekidaesthetics]

Baby gays be gayin 💚💫💖

When we first got introduced to Valentine in the Monster High universe he was just another villain. His whole spill was kinda cool tho.

Collecting the hearts of girls in love as trophies, thus making it impossible for them to ever love anyone again??? I was immediately hooked. And it was a Draculaura-centric movie too, so there was a bonus.

However it wasn't till many years later that I discovered Valentine's diary and boy did it deliver.

If that sounds kinda like the gay archetype, well, put on ur listening ears for a sec, 'cause we've got a story for you. Apparently, according to the creator of Monster High, his diary was supposed to have him come out as gay. It was a collector's item anyway. Kids wouldn't have had a chance to buy it as it was a convention-exclusive doll, but Mattel said and I quote "It is not the right time"

An extract from the original post of the creator which just goes to show how little influence they truly have over their own creations.

Well, the gay route was a no-go, so instead they had to be sneaky about it. If you read the diary, the core, the framework of the original idea is still there. Evident especially in the May 3rd entry:

"I now know that what I did - stealing love - was because I thought that's what emotional vampires were supposed to do. But it never felt quite right. I thought if I kept doing it, it would eventually feel right. Then when Draculaura called me - well, Toralei really - I thought that if I could get the heart that got away, it would change me, and everything would be fine. But I was just a real pain in the fang to everyone and made a fool of myself. So I've come to the conclusion being myself has to be easier than not being myself, right? Back then, I hated the thought of who I really was, and that conflict made me become someone who wasn't me. It's time to be true to myself, but it's scary."

Like come on!!!! How can it get queerer than that?!? He is one foot away from coming out of his coffin with glitter make up and rainbow hair!

But then the diary had to go the sneaky route. They knew they couldn't make him gay... At least directly. They had to be increeibly sneaky about that. Just then Spelldon Cauldronello steps onto the scene.

Written into the diary as a blink you'll miss it moment, Spelldon is Casta Fierce's younger brother. Up to that point there was no mention of the character in Monster High cannon. but his interaction with Valentine, well... It was short for one. But a lot was packed into that very short meeting. Keiran Valentine upon first meeting him spaces out, after which they spend some time together gettin to know each other better, ultimately ending with Valentine asking Spelldon for his number.

You'd think there'd be more, yet sadly that is where Spelldon's part in Valentines story arch stops. There was clear intent there to create a more inclusive Monster High, for which I am grateful. Despite not giving us a look at Spelldon's design, the fandom took it upon themselves to create designs and fanart, thus keeping his character alive.

The design I used in this piece actually belongs to my incredibly talented friend @i-have-serious-brainfreeze . He created this design of the nerdy Spelldon on a whim, and since then I have been utterly obsessed with it. So much so that I choose to create a fanart piece of the two bby gays.

As of now, Gen 3 made no current mention of either Valentine or Spelldon, so it's safe to say their story has been shelved for the time being. However, things are moving on the Monster High representation front. Twyla has been cannonicaly made autistic, Frankie nonbinary, and Clankie steered slowly towards a canonical romantic relationship.

If there ever is a better time to bring back Keiran Valentine, it certainly is now.

I'll be here waitin Mattel. I'll be here💖

[tia-amorosa]

Sunset Died - The Loners

Part 2

Autumn took a few steps towards him. “Hey, what's wrong, you look so depressed”. Hank looked into the distance for a moment. “Pauline came to see me briefly this morning."/ ‘Oh… And what did she want?’/ ‘Nothing more than to tell me that I'm not the father of her child’/ ”aah… I see. And that bothers you now?”.

Hank shook his head quickly. “No… No, it doesn't bother me. I'm actually quite happy that it turned out like this. I just hope he turns out to be a good father"/ ‘I'm sure you would have been’ too/ ”yeah… Maybe I will be one day. Are you all right?” he asked her as he hugged her.

“mhm, I'm always fine when I see you. It's a bit stressful at home. Leila is pregnant and Gage is always cleaning"/ ‘And the other one, what was her name again?’/ ”Twyla… She draws pictures to kill time. Everyone does their own thing here, but I like to be outside sometimes and wait for a miracle to happen"/ …

“I stopped believing in miracles a long time ago… It's only a matter of time before we all starve to death here"/ ”Don't say that. I'm sure we'll still be helped. We just have to be patient…"/ ”hm, I'll have to practise that again. I'm already glad that I got a few cans from the Altos”.

“They've tried as best they can to divide everything up… Hey, don't be so pessimistic, everything will be fine”. Hank smiled a little. Apparently Autumn always managed to take his mind off things. Then he took her hand. “Hm… What do you say we go to my place? You're already getting a red nose"/ ‘hnhn, o.k.’/ ‘I've also prepared a surprise for you…’/ ‘I'm curious about that,’ she said with a smile and gave him a kiss. then they set off on the long walk to his house.

The walk to Hank's house was really long. And the longer you had to walk, the more the cold drew into your body, despite the movement. “mh, it smells good in here“/”you think? I haven't really done anything except a bit of cleaning"/ ‘hnhn, that does make a difference’.

“But not much has happened down here"/ ”I wanted to take care of the bedroom first. You complained about the beds, so… I thought of something” / ‘well then…’. Naturally, she was curious as to what he had been doing up there and quickly made her way up the stairs.

Once upstairs, it was a bit of a surprise for her. “How did you come up with the idea of building a Viking bed?”/ “I read a book the other day where were described a bed like this… Well… I thought I'd give it a try. It's sturdy, anyway…”. She looked mischievously at the bed. “I still have to see for myself”. Then she turned to him. “I think we both know what else we can use this for… don't we?”.

Hank and Autumn have been a couple for a few weeks now. But no one has really noticed yet, except her flatmates. Hank didn't want to make a big deal of it for the time being either. But they get on very well and seem to have a few things in common. And he didn't worry about Pauline any more - what was, is over.

While Autumn spends time with Hank, Twyla has retreated to her room with a book. “Knowing her, she'll be spending the night with him anyway. We've known each other for so long, she's become my best friend. But at the moment, I have the feeling we're growing apart. . and the other two… only have eyes for themselves”.

In fact, Gage and Leila enjoy every free minute together. “nhnhn, why don't you put me down again, you. “/ “I'd carry you to the end of the world if it came down to it”/ “I already feel like I'm at the end of the world here, Gage”.

He carefully stood her back on the floor. “I know it's anything but easy at the moment. But most people here still have hope…"/ ”I do, too… But how much longer is this going to last? If something doesn't happen soon, the next generation won't survive for long here.”

After Leila and her fiancé had finished talking, they both went to their beds. There were only single beds, no bed for two where they could have cuddled or warmed each other up. But again, Beau had made sure that no one in the house had to freeze. …

Sometimes unexpected things happen at night. For example, the chicks hatch from their fertilized eggs. And there are quite a few of them, so they can be distributed among the people. Or you can make a delicious roast from them when they are fully grown.

Gage gets up particularly early. He is often the first to check on the animals. “What a nice surprise. I always thought there would be fewer chicks in winter. Our baby won't be born until next year. Until then, I can still practise a little with you, hnhn. Hmm… I'll call you Fluffy… Although, I don't even know if you're male or female, but I think the name fits. If you get too cold, lie under your mother's belly and she'll keep you warm”. After he had set the chick down again, he stood outside for a moment and watched the sun rise. Until it got too cold for him and he went back into the house.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

@greenplumbboblover😊

[crystal-clear-crystalline]

[Image ID: A pair of screenshots of the Monster High "Out of the Shadows" music video. It shows Twyla in front of Draculaura, Clawdeen, Frankie, Lagoona and Cleo, all in their gen 3 designs. The first image shows Twyla leaning over with her legs apart, knees bent and her arms out stretched. The rest of the characters have stepped out to the side, Frankie and Draculaura on the left and Clawdeen and Lagoona on the right, with one arm out in their respective direction. Cleo is in the back, jumping up with her arms up in the air. The second image is simar but with Twyla standing upright and her arms close to her head. Both are shown to be taken in a dark room with windows, lights, tables and chairs. Twyla also has magic particle effects in both images, near her feet in the first image and near her hands in the second. /. End ID]

My favorite part of Twyla's music video (minus her stimming with her hands, ghostlyg0ssip has a great gif of that). The only real complaint I had with it is the sound effects near the beginning were really loud and took me out of the music video and I couldn't make out some of the earlier lyrics.

You would not believe how many screenshots I had to take cause of a weird ass delay on my phone. Ty Samsung /s

[kickingitwithkirk]

When the past won't let go

Summary: Sometimes there’s more to the story

Pairing: Cordell Walker x Reader

Word Count: 2511

Warnings: cursing, past memories, angst, personal conflict, mentions of death, revealing secrets

Square Filled: Forbidden Relationship @walker-bingo

A/N: This segment is told from Walker's POV

A/N II: part six of Duke x Reader/Cordell x Reader series of drabbles and stories for this bingo.

*Set between 2.05 Partners and Third Wheels & 2.06 Douglass Fir

*divider by @firefly-graphics

*no beta-all mistakes are mine

Walker

“Agent Graves knew Stan Morrison killed your wife...”

Those eight words turned my heart inside out again.

It was a good thing Micki showed up at that moment, she took one look and ordered me to take a walk before I lost my shit and hospital security got called. 

I ended up in one of the city's parks heading down a hiking trail that thankfully wasn’t busy this time of day came to an outcropping near the river, sat down, and took off my hat, letting it dangle between my legs, going back over that year.

The pain was followed by excessive drinking and extended workload, using both to numb me, barely going through the motions of life without actually being in it till the accident at home and decided it was best for all to leave, going undercover on Operation: Watch The Throne. 

After months of trying to make inroads, those two women came; Twyla Jean, who got me into the Kings through a fake relationship, and Y/N, the mystery piece who made me put in the work to crack open the door she used to keep everyone at bay.  

The one my memories, or is it my heart, refuses to release me from. 

Later Stan’s betrayal was exposed after years of friendship..hell, the man was family, sent us all into a tailspin cumulated with us standing upon that spot forced him to confess after Emily stumbled upon a drug haul he pulled the trigger on the kill shot to save his own skin from Northside Nation. 

All this time, now I’m wondering how many other things I’ve missed.

I peered through the view window to see Micki texting on her phone spotting me taps a finger to her lips, and came out quietly shutting the door.

“You cooled off?”

“Yeah, hey, thank you for giving me some time to sort stuff out.”

“Is it sorted?”

“For now. So did Y/N write anything else about Mannon?”

“She wrote down a few places he might be hiding but so far, no sign he’s been to any of them. The doctor came by and said she’ll be out tomorrow. I let Cap know and he’s arranging a safe house.”

“Okay, good.”

“So, you wanna tell me about it?”

“No.”

Micki’s eyebrow arched, “since when?”

I spy James coming down the hall, “how about not right now.” 

“I’ll hold you to that.”

“Hold him to what?” James asked, “Cap, we all set?” Micki deflected.

“Everything’s set but I’d rather finish this discussion a little more privately,” he opens the door for her to enter first, “I called in a couple of favors and got the safe house in Buffalo.”

“That’s not in our jurisdiction,” Micki says and James lowers his voice, “I did some digging. It’s not been substantiated but it’s looking like Mannon may not only have informants in Austin but other law enforcement agencies, so we need to fly under the radar on this.”

“You’re thinking Graves is on the leaks?” 

“I could’ve told you that,” a scratchy voice answered.

“You’re supposed to be writing, not talking.” I sternly say and you give me that particular look hear James stifle a laugh before clapping my shoulder, “good luck with that.”

Next morning 

The nurse had finished going over discharge instructions when James dropped by with the safehouse details and informed us that the landlord had taken what Y/N had of value as payment for damages and tossed everything else. 

“My bag, y’all happen to confiscate it?” James shook his head, “I’m sorry, we didn’t find it.”

“What happened to the clothes I had on?”

“They had to cut your uniform off and you were barefoot.”

“Leave it to that sonuvabitch to take my last sixty-five bucks.” Y/N croaked out.

“I’ve already signed off on a purchase voucher for what you’ll need,” James said, “I’ll reach out to some contacts who can help with getting you back on your feet once we have Mannon in custody.”

Tugging at the robe-covered hospital gown, “wonder if they’ll let me keep this lovely ensemble, maybe get some of those awesome slippers to match since I don’t have a-pot to piss in.”

She broke off coughing and I grabbed the water cup, “that’s what you get for talking too much,” sticking the straw between her lips. “You can borrow my stuff till we get you some.”

“I’m no charity case, Ranger Walker,”  Y/N mumbled around the straw.

“Never thought you were.” 

Buffalo, TX

“Well, this is quaint.” 

Micki’s sarcasm wasn’t far off. 

The safe house turned out to be an older one-bedroom, one-bath ranch in the middle of nowhere with a pull-out and doorways I have to duck through.

“At least we got a clear view of the perimeter.”

“For once I’m happy it’s winter, makes it harder for anyone to hide, even in camo,” Micki commented. “We’ll still need to periodically check around that corpse of trees, looked pretty thick when we pulled in.”

“Let’s hope Mannon hasn’t caught on to our ruse and is following the decoy to Fredericksburg.” 

Micki opened the fridge, “whoever set this up didn’t leave much, I better do a supply run.”

“Why you?”

“Cause an almost 6’5” Sasquatch in Ranger clothes isn’t gonna stand out?”

“Good point. Head out-of-town so locals stay in the dark.”

“I’ll change and go to Palestine or Mexia,”  Micki grabs her bag and goes into the bedroom leaving the door cracked, “gotta feeling we'll be stuck here for a while, so I’ll double up on the groceries, especially with how much you pack away.” 

“Funny, where’s Y/N?”

Micki walked out slipping on her jacket and crossing her arms, “locked herself in the bath muttering something about preferring the hoosgow then stuck in an ace in the hole with a tenderfoot and blatherskite. She’s got quite the mouth on her.”

“Y/N tends to be colorful when stressed.”

 “What’s she like normally?”

“Sarcasm on a shingle.” Y/N sarcastically quips.

My breath hitched seeing you in my flannel and faded jeans, the type so worn in they’re almost too comfortable to take off, accentuating your curves that’ve haunted my dreams spot toes peeking out under the rolled cuffs.

“What’re you grinning at?”

“You ahh, you still wear that purple polish.”

“Right. I’m gonna get going,” I felt Micki’s scrutiny, mouthing behave, making mine downturn in response.

“I see Ramirez doesn’t tolerate any of your bullshine either.” 

Not giving me a chance to respond, you walk off to the cupboard finding the extra set of bedding and pillows come back, cocking your head for me to move.

“What’re you doing?”

“Making up the pullout.”

“Okay, but you’re not sleeping out here.”

“Why?”

“What’d ya mean why? You’re doubling up with Micki..”

“You two can double up in this dice house, I’m parking it out here!”

“The hell you are! Look, your ex has proven he can slip in and out of places undetected so until he’s in custody, we’re going to need to keep you within eyesight 24/7.”

“Ranger Walker, does that mean you’re personally gonna join me in the bath and scrub my back?”

“I..you..you know that’s not what I meant!”

“I’m not going to argue this one,” your voice is wearing out from overuse, “Y/N you probably aren't gonna believe me but I understand what a traumatic..”

“How am I supposed to believe anything coming from that mouth of yours?” Shit, the sheer vitriol in your voice.

 “I know this is my only chance at earning any trust from you again, and I‘m gonna be one hundred percent open and honest.” Sitting down I looked up at her with no filters, “remember me telling you about my wife?”

“You said she died in an accident.”

“Her name was Emily. The last time I saw her, she and a friend headed for the border, restocking supply stations. She called..she was so scared then I heard gunshots..I tried calling her back but I knew.”  

Fuck, feel like I’m gonna choke on my tongue.

“After the funeral, I buried myself in the job and the bottle. Finally, my family, James, and Stan Morrison did an intervention. I couldn’t be there anymore so I told them I was taking the undercover job outta town..and lost myself in those months. ”

I wasn’t expecting you to sit down next to me, let alone place your hand on my leg, and took the risk of placing my hand on top of yours.

“I’ve made a lot of mistakes and have no right but I am asking you to give me, Cordell Walker, a chance to prove you can trust me.”

Days later

“How much more time does she need?” Micki snapped.

Y/N’s indecisiveness was wearing on all our nerves, seriously thinking of hitting that bottle I’d snuck in. 

Of course, it didn’t help this morning Micki decided to try talking, okay, she tried some psychoanalysis learned from Adrianna, leading to one helluva blowout that had me physically hauling Y/N outside like a sack of taters. 

Glancing away from you angrily pacing outside to an equally angry Micki, “as long as she needs. Look, we’re all tired and cranky..”

 “You think?” 

“We can’t push..”

“.. then implement those charms of yours Beau so we can..”

“Wrap this up and move on to the next case?” 

We both startled not hearing you come in, “gee, wish it was that easy for me, I’d love to be able to move on from this.”

“You’ve had ample opportunity to tell anyone in law enforcement..”

“If I had, I'd been dead a long time ago.”

“What?” 

“There’s a shitload more to this than you’ve been told.” 

“Walker, grab that bottle I know you’ve got, and let’s all get real comfortable,” Micki retrieved three cups and sat down.

“I don’t wanna discuss my personal goings-on so let’s start with what brought him here.” Y/N threw back her drink, “ya know why I ditched my real name?” 

“Your file wasn’t clear.”

“Because I wouldn’t play their reindeer games.” Not entirely sure where she was going and Micki appeared as puzzled as me. “Wait, you two really don’t know who my family are?”

“No.”

“Daddy got his start by helping certain elected individuals with their less-than-legal activities. In appreciation, they made him Senator Y/D/L/N.”

“One of the Senators who confirms PSC appointments,” Micki states, and I add, “PSC oversees DPS,” some more pieces click, “he found out about Stan’s illegal activities.”

Y/N tapped the side of her nose.

 “The mysterious appearance of pension funds also blipped on the Secret Services financial investigations radar but they didn’t have enough tangible evidence against Morrison.  It was sheer coincidence Eric was sent at the same time the Kings started robbing banks.” 

“The Kings started a few months before Walker went undercover.”

“No, they’d started small a few years ago, Clint wanted it down to a T before moving on to bigger game, that was Eric’s in. He came up with partnering with Northside; in exchange for laundering the money, they’d make a delivery or pickup while on the circuit, that’s how Clint, Crystal, and Jaxon got misdemeanor drug charges. When Twerp came in, Clint persuaded her into giving Northside banking information on the businesses they were interested in, like The Side Step and Carlos Mendoza's family businesses.”  

“Wow, gotta give it to Graves,” Micki interjects, “she’s better at burying shit than I’d given her credit for.” 

Y/N gave me a curious look, “you didn’t know any of this?”

“No, but it makes sense, what Stan said, this can’t go on. I thought it was my screwing up at home but I was already getting too close before going under, why he hoped that the Rodeo Kings would end me.”

“Just like Clint, might’ve called you family but didn’t stop him from turning if he thought you were a threat.”

Micki pointedly glares at Y/N, “and you blithely went along with them, not caring who got hurt..” 

Y/N shot outta her seat and disappeared outside.

Shit! 

I sat down next to Y/N and leaned back against the same corps trees that half circled a small pond hand her one of the mugs I’d brought. 

“Been out here awhile, thought you might need a warm-up.” She took a sip and smiled, “you’ve never forgotten what I like since that first time you offered me coffee.”

“My daddy told me before I got married, ‘son, the key to a happy marriage is never forget what a woman likes to drink’.”

Y/N sighed, “Clint always was crazier than a Kiowa Paint Mare, somewhere along the way, he got twisted. I never believed he’d take things that far, or hurt your family as he did.”

 “How’d you..”

“Trevor. He told me everything but your real name.”

“Clint blamed me for Crystal, for what happened that day, wanted me to understand what it was to suffer. If Trevor hadn’t interfered, I’da killed him with my bare hands.” 

“Then you’d have become him.”

“Hmph, I’ve been on the edge of that precipice more than once.” “But you didn’t jump,” she said, “your Jimmy Cricket didn’t let you.”

“Let your conscience be your guide Jimmy Cricket?”

“No, don’t know what else to call it. That something that stops you from stepping off the ledge of not coming back,” she shrugged.

“For me, it’s my family. No matter how hard it gets, they never gave up on me.”

Y/N starts playing with the chain for my dog tags, making the rational part of my brain holler at me this is wrong, she’s under my protection and off limits.

Irrational desire flames in me as her feathery touch makes my skin tingles, accept the invitation of tasting her sweet lips.

A hand covering my mouth instinctively made me grab their arm.

“Walker, it’s me,” Y/N whispered before removing her hand, “stay quiet, there are people moving around outside.”

“How many?”

“Not sure but I saw three night-sights.”

Shit, not good hear Micki stirring, “hey, we’ve got company.”

***

“Slow down but don’t stop,” I reach for my duffel from the floorboard.

“Walker, whatever you’re thinking, don’t.”

“Stick to the plan..”

“..you bailing out of a moving vehicle wasn’t..”

“He’s right,” Y/N grabs hers, “sticking together gonna get you killed. I’ll split, you two can say it was during the firefight and..”

“..I’m coming with you..”

 “..the hell you are..”

“..you are in my custody and my responsibility. Micki, got any extra cash on you?” 

I rifled through the wallet she tossed me, “get Liam to discretely look into Graves’s recent activities, got a feeling Mannon’s sudden appearance wasn’t random, and tell James I’ll be in contact in a few days.”

“Walker..”

“I know. Be careful Flor, we don’t know who to trust inside the circle anymore.” 

Glancing in the rearview mirror, “on three.”

SPN TAGS: @donnaintx @lyarr24 @flamencodiva @b3autyfuldisast3r @lassie-bird @nancyml @spnbaby-67 @leigh70

Sam/Jared: @idreamofplaid

[hullomoon]

for the touches prompt game! your choice of pairing for "bandaging the other’s hand and not quite letting go" (aka I am screaming just from the prompt)

thank you for being so patient. what happened is i had half of this written went 'oh no this is gonna be long' but it aside and then forgot about it 😅 as an apology here's almost 1k of alexis/stevie royalty au

Alexis sighed as she dipped the cloth back into the water. The water turned a light pink and she winced at the sight. She removed the cloth and gently squeezed the water out. She turned to face Stevie. “You know,” Alexis grabbed Stevie’s hand and carefully swiped the cloth across her palm, “you really should be more careful.”

Stevie huffed. “It’s my job to protect you.”

“I don’t always need protecting,” Alexis replied. She felt Stevie tense under her touch.

“You’re the princess,” Stevie murmured, “Even if you think you don’t need protection, you do.” She pulled her hand from Alexis’s grasp and waved it in the air. “I mean you saw what happened tonight!”

Alexis let out a small huff and grabbed Stevie’s arm. “Sir Robert is a gentleman. How was I to know that he upset a blacksmith?”

“Because he’s a pompous asshole,” Stevie bit out.

Alexis turned her gaze away from Stevie and focused back to the task at hand. She didn’t think she could explain to Stevie that know matter how much she might not like Robert, he was Alexis’s best choice. The threat on his life now withstanding. “Fine, but next time take a moment to see if they’re harming me or my suitor. I don’t think any of them are worth dying for.” Alexis lifted her head up and met Stevie’s piercing gaze.

When she was first introduced to Stevie, Alexis paid her no mind. She was the sixth knight to be posted as her guard and if Alexis had her way Stevie would end up like the others: gone. She didn’t need a guard. If her family had their way she’d barely leave the castle. Instead, she did her best to ignore Stevie and evade her at every turn. Except, Stevie kept up. Alexis could disappear into the deepest parts of the city only to turn and see Stevie casually chatting with a shopkeeper, one eye trained on Alexis. She decided to pull out the big guns and use her more elaborate disguises and distractions and by the time Stevie caught up with her she’d barely broken a sweat.

It both intrigued and infuriated Alexis. Eventually, after one night when Alexis drank too much and Stevie had to carry her out of the bar did she start to warm up to her. Alexis remembered the careful way Stevie placed her on the bed and the featherlight touch to her forehead that Alexis wasn’t sure if she imagined. As Alexis opened up and let Stevie in, Stevie returned in kind telling her stories about her training and how surprised she was at the offer to be the princess’s knight.

She looked at Stevie now. The furrow of her brow, sweaty hair stuck to her forehead, and how close she was to Alexis. Alexis was accustomed to Stevie’s closeness, it was her job after all, but the intimacy of this suggested something else. She turned away from Stevie and grabbed a jar off a shelf. “Here,” Alexis started. She opened the jar and smeared a thin layer of the goop across Stevie’s palm. “This should help with the healing process, or at least that’s what Twyla tells me.”

“And does Twyla tell you lots of things?” Stevie asked, an arch to her brow.

“Of course, she’s the royal healer. We’ve built up quite a rapport, especially when I first tried ditching my guards. I wasn’t as good as I am now.”

Stevie smiled plainly. “Yes, you are pretty good at trying to slip away.”

Alexis scoffed as she grabbed a clean cloth. “Well, not completely since I can’t seem to escape you.”

If Alexis had said something like this early in Stevie’s tenure she would have gotten a dirty look. Instead, Stevie let out a sharp laugh. Alexis took the cloth and began to wrap Stevie’s hand. Right before she finished, Stevie gripped her wrist and leaned over, right next to Alexis’s ear.

“You can’t escape me, because I can’t keep my eyes off you,” Stevie murmured.

Alexis pulled back and noticed Stevie’s lustful look. As soon as Stevie loosened her grip, Alexis lunged forward and pulled Stevie into a kiss. Stevie’s lips were chapped and eager, chasing after Alexis. She felt the unforgiving rigidity of Stevie’s armor and paid it no mind as she moved to straddle her. They’d been playing cat and mouse for years and finally they both were where they wanted: caught in the embrace of the other. 

[sorcerymuses]

A Bright Boo Year

Happy New Year! For the tale end of 2023, my discord server did another Hocus Pocus Challenge. @13xwishes challenged me to write a drabble of our ship, Ocean Wishes (Lagoona/Gigi) celebrating the Boo Year with a kiss. So without further ado...

A big bash, with both Normies and Monsters. That happened more often after that disastrous Halloween. This time, they were ringing in the Boo Year together. Monster High was hosting, making use of their larger gym and general space. Most of the little cliques had separated for the early part of the party.

True to form, Lagoona was with the other jocks, playing casketball with some of the guys. She and a couple of the normie guys were creaming Clawd's team.

Meanwhile, in the clawditorium, the grimnastics team was getting in a little extra practice for the upcoming fundraiser. A few normies were watching the practice, cheering for the ghouls when they landed difficult moves. The camaraderie was surprising Gigi as she finished her routine, landing her final flips to cheers from both groups of students.

"The party is about to officially start!" someone called from the doors to the clawditorium.

"I don't know…," Gigi mumbled.

"What's the problem?" one of the normies laughed.

"It's complicated," Venus sighed. "Don't worry, Gigi. Besides. Lagoona will be there."

Gigi perked up at the thought of seeing her ghoulfriend. With events coming up, they'd both been so busy with their teams they hadn't had much of a chance to really be together in a while.

In the grimnasium, Lagoona landed one more shot, demonstrating a complicated shot that took advantage of the difference in her opponent's height and hers. She caught the ball on the rebound and high fived her team.

"Guys and ghouls, the party's about to really get going!" Claire called from the door. "Everyone's headed out to the yard for karaoke and fireworks."

Lagoona tossed the ball into the storage bin and they headed out. They got outside to a raucous party, everyone gathered already dancing with someone on stage singing off-key to some normie song or other. She spotted a vaguely familiar blond bespectacled normie chatting with Operetta, there seemed to be a small crowd near them of spirits that she knew couldn't sing without hurting anyone, and it made her wonder about the girl. She'd seen her around, but hadn't officially met her.

She found most of her friend-group mingling with their normie friends and she went over to them.

"Hey ghouls!" she called to them. "Have any of you seen Gigi?"

"She might be with the rest of the grimnastics team," Draculaura provided. "They were practicing for the fundraiser in the clawditorium."

The singer on stage hit a particularly sour note and they all winced.

"I'd rather Operetta get up there than this swill," Cleo grumbled.

"Be nice," Lilith laughed. "It's Chad…we couldn't stop him."

Lagoona looked up to the stage to see that it was, in fact, Chad up there giving a poor rendition of some normie musical song and maybe trying to mimic the choreography from the show? It was…painful to watch, but Lilith was right…Chad was one of those that did what he wanted.

Gigi came to the party with her group at the tail end of Chad's performance. She was nervous about the party. Mostly because she heard that people made wishes at midnight and if her magic acted up…it would be a disaster. Twyla assured her as they came to the crowd that everything would be fine and they should find Lagoona and Howleen. She couldn't agree more with the idea of spending the party with her ghoulfriend.

Again, she was utterly shocked by how the monsters and normies were partying together. The song on stage ended and there was weak applause for the boy who had been singing. The DJ called for another performer and Abbey came up. The yeti picked a song and performed a lively bhangra, singing in Hindi.

She heard loud cheering and spotted the ghouls. Lagoona included. So, she started gently pushing her way towards them. Abbey's song ended and she cheered for the ghoul.

"Very impressive! We have time for one more song before midnight!" the DJ called. "Any more volunteers?" No one stepped forward this time, so a pair of lights started passing over the crowd.

Lagoona spotted Gigi as the lights passed over the crowd. She separated from her friends and started wading the crowd towards her. She stopped short when one of the lights stopped right in her eyes.

"Crikey!" she gasped. "I can't sing!"

"That didn't stop Chad!" someone reminded her as the crowd pushed her up to the stage despite her continuing protests. She'd never sung before! But…she noticed Gigi getting a similar treatment.

Well, this was one way for her to get to Gigi and stay with her. So, she went the rest of the way on her own. Someone had set up a screen, presumably for lyrics to scroll over. She'd never done karaoke before.

Gigi joined her and they were talked through what to do. The music started and since Gigi seemed more nervous than she was, she started singing first. Gigi took her lead with the next verse and by the end they were hand in hand. The music stopped and the countdown began.

She didn't care about that as she gazed into her ghoulfriend's eyes and inched closer to that long-awaited kiss.

"3!" someone shouted, followed by "2!"

The final call was drowned out by cheers and fireworks. Lagoona didn't hear any of them as Gigi closed the distance and they kissed. When they parted, it was only for long enough to vacate the stage and go off away from the crowd to cuddle.

It really had been a while since they spent any real time together. And Lagoona was glad for this time.

"We've been really busy lately," Gigi noted as they settled in to watch the fireworks.

"Too right," Lagoona agreed. "You know what my wish for the year is?"

"What…?"

"To spend more time with the ghoul I adore so much," she said softly, kissing Gigi again. The genie giggled, remembering that poem from what seems like so long ago. Yes, that sounds like a doable wish.

[thegongoozlerreacts]

Cemetery Mary: Reginald's Route Part 2

now i am going to go get Reginald's good end! the bad end was,,,, it was,,,,,,, bad

anyways to get the good ending i'll just do the opposite of what i did the last time (and follow the ending guide lol)

spoilers belowww

ok so ive mostly been skipping thru everything and for some reason??? i keep ending up on the wrong routes?? like i accidentally got on the twyla route then the Crowven one like oopsies

not sure what i did wrong tho ?? i'll just start over

ok now im on the Reginald route, going shoppinggg time to get one wrong thing just to see what will happen ok nothing much happened just some dialogue

now to bring up the axe (bro he is so sus)

the cursed manga still freaks me out i skipped thru the church part but it still freaks me out also why did those people at the church look at Mary weirdly also im really curious about the black goo stuff,,, will i get an answer for it in the true ending or on the good end of this route?? im wondering if i should get the true end on Reginald's route (but it doesnt rlly matter which route i get the true end on since it doesnt change much apparently)

that part where Reginald gets mad at his neighbor makes me wonder if he's only super nice to Mary and around Mary like is his behavior different around other ppl when Mary's not around??

aww asking Crowven to stay,, cute

THEYRE SO CUTE AHHHH

now for Mary talking to the priest at the church,,, an interesting thing about this route is that Mary never realizes her ghost-communication powers, just gets caught up in some weird curse/wish thing in the form of defaced shoujo manga and a mysterious headstone

thats nice of him no threatening 'I'll make her be sorry' comments just him showing up w an umbrella

in the restaurant scene why does Mary see black goo come out of the mouth of Reginald's victim just another clue that the manga and the grave are connected to Reginald i guess??

OUCH

i tried to call twyla in the part where Mary needs to sleepover with someone interestingly u literally cant LOL twyla doesnt answer that makes sense tho

oho?? this is new a headache huh? and that music from the church when she was super sick is playing too ooh will she discover that Reginald's missing or smth?? learn more answers regarding the manga and the eye and the grave???

oh her phone is missing?? did Reggie take her phone? since he told her about the flashlight and Mary was like 'did he not realize my phone has a flashlight?'

maybe he took her phone bc its flashlight is bright enough that she would see that he isnt in the living room, unlike his flashlight

i am very incredibly nervous

OH WTF??? IS THIS HIS POISON MIXTURE?

hey maybe his antifreeze-poison thing is a mixture between antifreeze and rat poison since twyla said that it was 'some kind of' antifreeze that had a purple label but they werent able to find anything like that so maybe the label was actually a rat poison label???? or maybe im wrong LOL

ooooh it changes??? i went back and picked the middle 'grab something' bc i wanted to see if it was the same thing

it wasnt, obviously but also IS THAT MARY'S HAIR?? WTF???

what's the third thing

OH MY GOD

ok im gonna,,, im gonna continue with the first option that i picked if Mary doesn't discover the other stuff then i'll just re-load those saves and see

MARY DONT SMELL OR DRINK THE STRANGE LIQUID MARY?!?!??!

ah ok so she put it away and then u can pick to grab the other stuff alright

Mary dont rationalize the pictures,,,, they were taken without ur consent or knowledge Mary,,,,, Mary these are red flags Mary,,,,,

OH MY GOD ITS HER MOM'S NECKLACE ISNT IT OHHH MY GOD.

if i slept in her parent's room then this would be her plushie right?

"Is the Reginald I know... even a real person?" lol. lmao. no.... hes not,,, sorry Mary,,,

I KNEW HE HAD SMTH TO DO WITH ALL THAT WEIRD STUFF!!! I KNEW IT

jumped when the mirror broke lmaoo

oh god. i hope he doesnt catch Mary

oh no she's trapped :((( nooo Maryyyy

BBBBBBRRRROOOOOOOOO

oh fuck. oh no. oopsies...... i missed the quick time event im,,, Mary i am so sorry

bro wtf stay away from Mary?!?!??!

"It makes me sound like I'm crazy" my good sir you are crazy you are absolutely insane

"No matter how many times it happens" so there is time travel happening

that IS true i cant deny that but also,,, u like,,, thats not how u do it Reg

"You... love funerals so much. ...So I tried to provide you with as many as I could!" oh so THATS why he kills people ok,,,, ok then thats

yeah thats definitely not how u do it

how many times has he been like time travelling or like,,, looping i guess?? is it a time loop?? maybe??

HHHUH WHAT WHAT WAS THAT??? I DIDNT GE TTO READ IT?

i think it was purple text that said 'well since you asked so nicely' but im not sure?? im just assuming cuz she's out now so is Reginald behind the purple stuff? probably but like maybe its not on his side?? woah first time that some creature presented with purple is doing some good(?)/j

help?? Crowven??? i mean like yeah i would too but lets slow down for a sec

what the hell he just disappeared? and everything he owned too??

well that was a wild ride definitely more confusing than all the other routes and no ghost-communication too (unless the eye and purple text were ghosts?)

well im gonna process this ending, maybe ramble more to my brother bc he doesnt know anything and its funnier to theorize around him

i think im also gonna try to take a screenshot of that one purple text bc im curious abt it

next time i'll be playing i wont skip any scenes, and i'll be getting the true end on Crowven's route

[scraregenrecs]

Rare & Gen Rec Round Up - May & June 2022

How is it possible that summer is almost over already?! We hope you’re all keeping cool out there… and these fics are sure to be good company while you either soak up the sun or hole up somewhere with air conditioning. Enjoy (and stay hydrated)!

Also — If you’re participating in the Summer Reading Challenge, be sure to check out our recent themed recs.

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All my secrets are safe in your heart as well… by @typewritess (podfic by @rhetoricalk), Twyla & Jocelyn, rated G, 2745 words

Summary: A glimpse through the years at how Jocelyn looked out for and took care of Twyla while she was growing up.

Rec [written by doingthemost]: I have such a soft spot for these two and the close relationship we see in canon, and love imagining what they might've been to each other before the events of the show. This is a poignant look at their relationship and Twyla's early years. While it can be a little sad, it also feels like a warm hug–especially if you listen to the podfic!

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Best (Friend) Practices by doingthemost (@sarahlevys), Alexis & Ruth, Alexis/Twyla and Stevie/Ruth (background), rated G, 4499 words

Summary: Ruth makes terrible, corny jokes. She talks for way too long about her high school trifecta of mathletes, robotics, and debate team, and doesn’t entirely manage to hide her surprise when Alexis mentions finishing high school, like, two years ago. She tallies up their bill at the end, then charges Alexis for 58.33% of their appetizer because she accidentally had seven shrimp to Ruth’s five.

It’s the best evening Alexis has had in a long while.

When Johnny sets up Alexis and Ruth on a friend date, Alexis gets more than she bargained for (and then some).

Rec [written by petalwrites]: Alexis and Ruth are the besties I never knew I needed. This fic really explores their personalities and how they compliment each other in ways you might not expect at first glance. It’s also packed with queer feelings and some tooth-rotting Twylexis goodness. Absolutely a must-read.

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Discover me discovering you by @holdmygum, Jake/Evan Buckley (911), rated E, 5188 words

Summary: “You have somewhere to stay tonight?”

Evan bites his lip, notices the way that Jake is watching. His skin feels too warm and too tight, little sparks skipping along its surface. When he walked in here he had no idea where he was going to go or what he was going to do next, never having even considered anything sexual with another man, and one beer later he’s pretty sure he’ll be going home with this man he just met.

OR

Evan makes a pit stop in Canada and learns a lot more about himself than he ever expected.

Rec [written by petalwrites]: Frankly, I’m losing my mind over this. As a huge 911 fan as well as a Schitt’s Creek fan, this fusion is everything I didn’t know I wanted. Technically, no knowledge of 911 is required to read and enjoy this fic, though. It’s a great fic about self-discovery and… well… quality porn, lol.

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The Forest Between Us by @treepyful, Patrick and Twyla, Alexis/Twyla and David/Patrick (background), rated T, 4900 words

Summary: Patrick and Twyla are morning people. David and Alexis are not. This continues to be true while camping.

A 5+1 of early morning chats through the years.

Rec [written by doingthemost]: This is a gorgeous, atmospheric fic. I love how you can see the progress of time and these relationships through the 5+1 format, and the way this is written truly allows these characters to come to life. I love these two as best friends and siblings-in-law, and this is a great read for those who do, too!

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i'll be by your side, even if i'm not next to you by @landofsonlali (podfic by Amanita_Fierce), David & Alexis, rated T, 1594 words

Summary: david and alexis haven't always been close, but they have always talked to each other. it's easy to have an open line of communication when you share a telepathic bond with your sibling.

a story told in three parts.

Rec [written by doingthemost]: I am a huge sucker for magical realism and this fic didn't disappoint! I didn't know that this whole time, I've been wanting telepathic Rose siblings in my life. This fic is so touching and sweet, all while being gently humorous. It perfectly captures the feel and mood of the show and works so well with canon. 

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Slow and sure by @hullomoon, David & Twyla, rated G, 1036 words

Summary: David and Twyla bond over painting.

Rec [written by petalwrites]: Anyone who knows me also knows that I’m a BIG fan of David and Twyla developing a deeper friendship. This fic explores that through their shared love of painting, and I’m totally content accepting it as canon tbh. I’m a big fan.

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throw wishes to the well [+ podfic] by @hullomoon, Ruth/Stevie, rated G, 386 words

Summary: Stevie and Ruth make a wish.

Rec [written by petalwrites]: I really enjoyed this hopeful story about two of my favorite gals. Ruth’s voice really comes through — in the text, and in the beautifully read podfic — and the sweetness of it all puts a big smile on my face.

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time, wondrous time, gave me the blues and then purple-pink skies by petiteinsomniac, Alexis/Ted, rated G, 2814 words

Summary: how ted and alexis cross paths again, three years later.

Rec [written by petalwrites]: This fic is such a soft exploration of how Ted and Alexis could find each other again, post-canon. You can really see their growth and how nicely they will always fit together. Plus, there are sweet callbacks to the show, matching clothes, and a hint of sibling banter. I really loved it!

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whittling away at the self (who am i?) by @hullomoon (podfic by Amanita_fierce and art by @lizzie-bennetdarcy), Jake/Mutt, rated T, 1827 words

Summary: With Jake working on a Pride exhibition piece, Mutt starts thinking about what Pride means to him.

Rec [written by doingthemost]: I love that these two boys are getting more traction within the fandom! I love the way this fic explores Jake and Mutt separately and together, and the accompanying art and podfic are really well done!

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you come away with a great little story by @nerdframed (podfic by @petalwritesx), David & Alexis, rated G, 2750 words

Summary: In the quiet aftermath of one of the Rose family holiday parties, David and Alexis bond about how their lives have changed.

Rec [written by doingthemost]: I love these two chaotic disaster siblings, and this is such a tender, wistful, nostalgic look at the two of them together and how they've grown up (and grown together) over time! The podfic is touching and is also a must-listen. 

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you take the (cheese) cake by @hullomoon, Shannon/Heather, rated E, 1443 words

Summary: Shannon loves to watch Heather work with her hands

Rec [written by doingthemost]: This such an unexpected, delightful pairing! I love fics that shine a spotlight on the other inhabitants of Schitt's Creek and allow us to imagine what else could be going on behind the scenes during the events of the show. Plus their relationship is adorable and totally sexy!

–

Happy reading, friends!

[mammameesh]

Shooting Stars

Have 157 random words of my NaNoWriMo project. I could not end it on a down note. I really need fluff today. 11,523 out of 50,000 words.

Creative Writing prompts for November

Stevie took Twyla out to her property, her family home the 'old Johnson' place. She drove Twyla out in her dad's old truck, a pallet of sleeping bags piled in the back. They went out to see the Leonids meteor shower. The house was out in the country, away from the noise and the hustle of New York. A place where you could see the stars. Twyla brightened up when she saw the disheveled home, her memory was part of Twyla's magic. "Stevie, I remember this place!" The headlights beamed across the white façade of the scorched house, and Twyla's smile dropped. "It's still standing." Stevie's voice was hopeful, rich. Stevie parked in front of the house, up on the lawn. She put her hand on Twyla's hand. "It just needs a little magic." Twyla smiled at Stevie's use of words, and giggled under her breath. "How can I help?" "Come wish with me, under shooting stars?"

[yami-the-outcast]

The kids aren’t alright

So, while the first interaction in the naga au between Joot and the Dio twins didn’t go.. fantastic... I thought I’d share one of the small steps taken towards building more trust between the guardian naga and the smols.  Warning for a bit of blood and some violence, though I tried not to get too descriptive. 

Logically, Twyla knew why she was here… why she and her brother had been moved to this reservation away from prying eyes.. She wasn’t human like she’d thought she’d been for the majority of her life, and while she could occasionally slip back into that old form it was hard to maintain it… It was supposed to be “home” now, that’s what she and Ty were told. Not that he thought much better of it either, especially with that abrupt meeting that none of them expected.. She was still clutching the end of her tail everytime she caught a whiff of Jotaro’s smell. She didn’t know adult nagas were so big.. Mr. Joseph was kinder by far, and so was Josuke, but there was always an air of awkwardness that seemed to hang heavy in the air whenever she or her brother was around. It was supposed to be “home” but it sure as hell didn’t feel like it. Home was a hello to greet her, a soft hug, a kind smile, and she just wasn’t feeling that here. She knew Ty was too, though he was always the one to put on a brave face to try and pretend for her sake, though no matter how much cheap hair dye he applied, it never seemed to stay in for more than a few days before the natural blond showed through once again. Gotta love whatever bastard their dad was, eh? “You’re the one who wants to do this, so don’t be getting cold scales on me,” Twyla snapped back to attention from staring over the divide that separated the reservation from the rest of the forest. Ty had been waiting for her, watching her with their little pack of essentials as she got lost in thought, the self-proclaimed “elder” twin looking none-too-happy about all of this. “Come on, we need to find a spot shallow enough to cross,” he mumbled before slithering forward, Twyla following after carefully. Finding a way out was.. Less than easy.. Eventually, Tyler had to take the hard way, finding a tree to bowl over with a bit of help from his special ability, and give them a way to cross without touching the flowing water, though the river was quick to take it. The two watched for a moment, giving the land they’d just left a final glance, before Ty took his sister’s hand and they vanished into the brush and off towards what they hoped would be somewhere better, unaware of the eyes from the trees watching them, both human and inhuman as the clouds grew overhead. -- Jotaro had been trying to ignore them for the most part.. after his heart had calmed and the adrenaline faded from his veins he'd realized in hindsight he'd.. overreacted a bit.. they were feisty and looked like.. 

But they were kids all the same, his grandfather was constantly reminding him of that fact, and giving not-so-subtle hints that he should probably make an attempt to get along with them.

"It's not like they're going anywhere.. you can either let them keep avoiding you or you can get used to that fact."

Damn it.. it's not like it was that damn easy old man.. every time he heard that damn rattling, caught a glimpse of one of them out of the corner of his eye, he had to catch himself before he instinctively lashed out…

The large naga grumbled to himself as he heard thunder crashing outside, the sudden cloudburst rousing him from the couch to get up and make sure nothing was leaking again, and make sure everyone was safe and dry inside.

He didn't realize it on the first check, mostly thanks to Josuke blasting the sound on whatever game he was playing, but things were rather quiet… 

Things didn't get quiet like this anymore.. he could always hear something going on, especially with the new.. kids… 

Another bolt of lightning struck outside and Jotaro's gaze was drawn outside, to the dark shadow he could feel staring intently at him.

Damn it.. 

----

How it had happened, Twyla didn't know.. one moment they were slithering along, Ty grumbling about the rain, the next she was half-dragging her brother through the trees in a mad dash. 

Usually Tyler would have known, he would have been on-guard in case of something coming at them. But with the rain and the thunder.. both of them had been deaf to the danger until Ty felt a sharp prick at his neck with the next thunderclap. 

Twyla could hear it, someone behind them, multiple people? She didn't know, but she didn't have time to count while her brother's weight seemed to grow heavier and heavier on her shoulder… she knew she'd been hit, but she had to get going.. playing with their density allowed for a quicker slithering pace but nagas were not creatures built for endurance.

Slipping down a small ridge, slick with mud, she lost hold of her twin with a sharp scream that grew shrill when she went tumbling, finding a steel trap snapping shut around her arm.

She screamed out again, trying to fight back, trying to reach out to grab her unconscious brother, crying for him to get up, to keep going, but he lay there motionless without a sign of hearing her calling him.

The humans, the hunters, drew near. Three.. two with rifles, one with a large machete. He cursed as they drew near, ignoring the way Twyla hissed and tried to fight free from the contraption digging into her flesh, "I thought I said we weren't going to use these!" He snapped at the other two who drew closer to the unconscious naga, "they want their hides intact! You don't get a matching set like this anywhere you idiots! You're lucky it didn't pierce the scales!"

The pair of humans grumbled, muttering curses as they grabbed her brother under each of his arms and started to drag him off, their apparent leader giving a dark chuckle, "go ahead and rip your arm off if you want, beast, save us the trouble of taking 'em off later…"

"Ty.. don't.. you can't..," she slurred, whatever they'd shot into her starting to take effect as she tried to lash out with a claw, her tail weakly rattling much to the apparent amusement of her captor.

The hunter simply moved back, unhindered by her clumsy attempts to fight him as he smirked. 

"Cute.. for a filthy creature like you.. Can't say I often come across a matching set… less often I don’t have to wrangle with a big one to get 'em.. pity, the big guy had a pattern that would have got me a pretty penny.. I'll just have to settle for the both of you."

He brought his knife up, pausing where the scales met flesh, "hmm.. probably be easier if I just carve you up now.. save me the trouble of dealing with your screaming later…"

Twyla let out a weak squeak at this, the only sound her tired, worn body could make at this moment, unable to free herself, unable to flee… do anything against the stabbing pain she could feel in her side… All she could do was pitifully squeak like a child, hoping beyond everything that someone would save her…

The last thing her eyes saw through the haze of mud and tears, was a dark shape looming overhead, far bigger than the humans, but also.. familiar…?

---

It was an emergency, Raining Men's presence made that clear enough when he'd approached the odd stand. 

He'd thought it was only an annoyance, he'd have to drag the twins back inside while dealing with the boy's harsh glare and the girl's frightened trembling. 

But the look he'd gotten from the odd creature had thrown him off, for something without eyes it certainly had a presence…

Following the protector's lead, he'd been taken to the edge of the reservation, and despite the rain pouring down the smell cut clear through it. Fear.. fear and blood.. and the stink of hunters nearby..

"Shit," Jotaro cursed, splashing through the river and into the brush, his instincts flipped into overdrive.

They were Dio's kids, that was true, but they were still kids, damn it! They shouldn't be all the way out here, didn't they know they were safe as long as they stayed within the damn reservation!? 

Safe.. fuck, like they'd know that with the way he'd acted… he hadn't exactly been projecting an aura of protection had he? His blood boiled as he tore through the trees with little effort, following his nose and the trail of crushed growth he could see. 

The sound reached his ears next, and the anger in his chest froze to ice when his gaze fell upon the source.

A pitiful squeak… from the naga slumped on the ground, a human hunched over her to drive his blade into her side where skin and scales met...

He lashed out before he knew it, throwing the hunter aside with a single swipe, the man colliding with a tree to the sound of sickening crack, before hunching over the child on the ground.

Instinct demanded, screaming at him to tuck her away where it was safe and warm, and once his claws had carefully pried the bear trap from her arm he was more than eager to do so. 

He was careful, making sure to lick the blood from her wounds, a small amount of relief easing some of his anxiety as Twyla gave a soft whimper in reply. Still alive.. now he had to find the boy..

The rage didn't falter with the addition of the weight in his middle after swallowing her down to safety, the girl sitting like a little piece of ice in his belly as he followed the smell of the other two hunters to where they'd taken her match.

---

Everything hurt.. it was cold and wet.. he didn't like it.. he didn't want to be here…

Tyler didn't know where he was, he couldn't remember why he was here… his head was swimming with every motion. His gaze was cloudy and blurry, vague shapes visible to either side of him...

He hissed and lashed out, biting out at the air, part in confusion and part in fear, though whatever was touching him and pulling him didn't care. He found something forced against his mouth, the taste of copper between his teeth before some strap was tightened to guarantee he wouldn't be doing that again.

More metal, cold around his wrists, something on his tail.. he was inside something, the smell of diesel.. car? Truck?

He tried to look around, to struggle, but each moment had the little of the world he could figure out pitching under him. It was dark, his eyes not wanting to adjust.

A low groan left Ty's mouth as he was forced to flop back down, head banging against the metal of the vehicle's floor. 

Hurt.. copper in his mouth.. where was Twyla? She was always there when he was hurt or cold, so why wasn't she here now? 

He wanted his sister…

The world moved again, he could make out shouting but the words were muffled as things tumbled around him.

No, this was.. things had really moved this time.. something was happening.. 

Metal creaking, peeling back, he could feel rain on his face, make out piercing green eyes through the haze of the world.. 

The cold metal on his face and body were gone, hands holding him tight but gently.. bringing him upwards..

Warm again.. he didn't know why, he didn't know how.. it felt right though… safe, something in his head told him it was safe.. 

Ty found himself at the center of that warmth, a wave of weariness sweeping over him as a familiar tail coiled around his own, and familiar arms held him close.

There she was.. 

Safe.. safe.. 

--

Jotaro said nothing when he arrived at home, retreating to his room for the night with the so-called runaways in tow.

They were hurt, but he knew his instincts wouldn't let him pass them off to Josuke at this moment.. for now they'd be fine where they were.

The large naga set aside his wet coat and hat before curling up in the warmth of his bed, making sure to be careful as he moved lest he disturb either of the twins, resting a hand upon his middle when he finally got comfortable. 

Damn kids.. he sighed with a slight shake of his head. Tomorrow would be full of scoldings and punishments, along with proper treatment to deal with their injuries. Then he'd have to make a call about the hunters and their truck.. it was going to be hell to deal with.

But for now.. Jotaro allowed himself to slowly relax and drift off into a peaceful sleep, joining the young pair tucked away for a long and heavy rest.

[hops-hunny]

Distance Makes the Heart Grow

CHAPTER 8.5

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Mafia Boss!Neville Longbottom x Reader

Pronouns: She/Her

Word Count: 2k

Summary: (Y/n) lives a normal life. But that’s the issue, it’s normal, it’s plain, and it’s growing boring. Everyday she wishes for something, anything to spice up her life. But, when her old school friend (and crush) shows up at her bakery with a new look (and what looks like a new life), what will it bring for her? Will their puppy love grow? Will his big secret lead to the end of them or will it spark a new beginning?

Warnings: none!

A/N: It took me a while but here’s chapter 8 but from Twyla and Seamus’s POV.

“Where are you going, Finnigan?” Harry asked, quirking a brow at him. Seamus smiled, winking some.

“Launching operation ‘make sure the date goes well’. You didn’t think I was gonna miss out on this did you?” Draco eyed him suspiciously as the vein in his forehead began to throb.

“Twyla set you up to this, didn’t she?” Seamus turned once he got to the doorway, flashing him a smile.

“ ‘Course she did!” Before anyone could protest he slammed the door behind him, instantly being greeted with Twyla standing in front of him. She had an unusually large purse attached to her shoulder, bouncing excitedly as he approached her. Her outfit was fully pink camo aside from her shirt which was a white. He eyed her curiously, snickering some. “So much for blending in.”

“Hey if I’m gonna blend in, I at least want it to be cute! Plus I don’t know how your Prada suit is going to help you blend in Finnigan.” she huffed, patting the side of her bag. “But that’s what these are for.” he looked at her in confusion, beginning the walk to the front of the villa.

“What’s in there?” he asked, attempting to peer into the bag. She clenched it closed, glaring at him.

“I’ll show you in the car. We just have to wait for them to pull off.” Twyla replied, pulling Seamus behind the large pillar on the porch. They both watched as Neville helped (Y/n) into the car before climbing in after her. Once the car was far enough out of view they both clammered to the other car in the driveway. The chauffeur eyed them quizzically.

“Mr.Longbottom didn’t mention his second car being taken out. Left over business Master Finnigan?” he questioned, opening the car door for the two of them. Seamus hummed to his question, closing the door after Twyla climbed in.

“Yeah, yeah something like that. Listen, I need you to follow them to their destination. No questions, got it?” the older man nodded, climbing into the driver’s seat before beginning to drive. After a short while they caught up to the car, watching as the two talked, laughing with each other. Seamus and Twyla both looked at the two intensely, squinting their eyes as if that would make the conversation magically easier for them to hear.

“This is pointless! We should’ve bugged the car.” Twyla exclaimed, flopping back into her seat. She was beyond frustrated. She knew the conversation was going well but she just wished she knew what they were saying. The part of her that felt like the girl’s older sister felt slightly protective of her, especially due to her reserved nature.

“It’s best not to worry about things we can’t change. Anyways, what’s in that bag of yours? You seemed pretty excited about it earlier.” Seamus asked, taking a swig from his flask. Twyla perked up at his words, placing the bag on the seat in between them. Unclasping the button, the contents were revealed.

“Ok, ok so! First off, we’ve got disguises. We definitely are going to need those.” he examined the wigs and mustaches that she placed in his lap. They were clearly great quality and in good condition despite their chaotic encapture in the confines of her purse. He nodded, waiting to see what she’d pull out next. “Then I’ve got these IDs in case, ya know, some legal trouble arises. We have plenty of identities to use.” he gasped at the IDs, eyeing them. They were really believable, not a detail out of place!

“Wow, these are extremely realistic, they look like the real thing! Where’d you get them?” he asked her. She laughed some, stuffing the wigs back into her purse.

“Who said they were fake?” he gawked at the girl as she continued to speak. “What? I found them on the ground in different places we’ve been. Besides, using a few stolen IDs is the least of your concerns! You’ve done far worse your entire time here.” she had a point, so he’d give that to her.

“Signor Finnegan, Singora Dundee, we’ve arrived. Would you like me to wait outside for you two?” he asked, as he opened the door for the two. Seamus slid a large noted bill into the pocket of the man’s suit jacket.

“Just wait around the area. Go explore, Giovani! I’ll call you when I need you.” he said smiling at the man as he pat his shoulder. The man’s eyes widened, smiling brightly as he bowed, tipping his hat at his superior.

“Grazie, Signor!” he thanked him before hopping back into the car. Twyla thanked the man as well as they made their way up the stairs of the restaurant. They watched as Neville had a melt down at the person behind the desk.

“Boss must be feeling nice today. I’ve seen him do far worse to people who question him.” he shrugged, opening the door as the couple began to walk off. “I wonder what the commotion was?”

“Name of Reservation?” that. How could they have forgotten reservations? Of course restaurants this high class were sure to have some sort of reservation system. Seamus wiped his hands on his pants, clearing his throat.

“Uh, Johnson?” he panicked, causing Twyla to hit his side. The girl behind the desk scanned the book before her eyes lit up. “Ah, Signor Johnson! Right this way sir.” 

“Nice save.” Twyla whispered to him. However as their waiter lead them one way, Neville’s began to go another. “A-actually can we have a change of tables? We’d like one angled from the one with the view. Signor Johnson here loves to admire the scenery, isn’t that right?” Twyla inquired, watching as Seamus nodded along giving the waiter a hopeful smile. The waiter sighed before smiling back. She giggled some, eyeing Seamus up.

“I’ll see what I can do.”

--------------------------

“Man, this bread is amazing! And can you believe this wine is free too?!” Twyla asked, crumbs falling from her mouth as she washed down her bread with another drink of wine. Their table had been positioned perfectly, giving them a dead-on view of the two. They had been observing carefully, awing at the cute kisses they’d share and turning away when silence would grow over them. A few times the two had to stop each other from waltzing over there and doing something about it.

“Who said the wine is free?” he asked, laughing at the girl’s shocked expression.

“Dray will cover it, I’m sure he won’t mind.” she said, shrugging as she poured herself another glass.

“Yeah, he really likes you, ya know? I overheard him gushing about you to Blaise and..” Seamus’s voice began to grow muted as a feeling overcame Twyla. It was one she knew all too well. Ever since she could remember, Twyla had always had a sixth sense for knowing when things were about to happen. It was like intuition times ten. Most of the time the things she’d feel were so specific that she knew instantly but now? She didn’t know what but she knew something was coming.

“Seamus, something’s about to happen right now. I can just sense it.” Seamus tensed at her words, reaching for the holster hidden on him.

“Something like what? Like danger?” he asked, sitting up straight as he began to grow alert, looking carefully around the restaurant.

“No, more like drama….in really cheap perfume.” she said. He went to ask what but was cut off from a scoff to their side.

“It sounds like you may be smelling yourself, no?” a thick, high pitch french voice sounded off. They both groaned in unison. The man reached for his glass, downing the rest of his wine before he stared at Gisele intensely.

“Why are you here, Gisele?” he said, annunciating each of his words. It was clear from his tone and disposition that the last person he wanted to see tonight was her. Especially after the warning he had given her in the museum. Her smile grew wider, resembling one of a horse.

“I was just having a bit of a meal, you know, before my big show tomorrow. Celebrating my success early.” she noticed the empty chairs at their table, a light bulb going off in her head. “Say...Neville wouldn’t happen to be here with you would he? Well what a dumb question that is! Wherever you are he’s sure to be leading in some way.” 

“He’s not here with us.” Twyla said, standing up in attempts to intimidate the woman. However she just continued to smile with the same stupid smile on her face.

“I see...so he’s here with someone else?” Twyla froze, mouth agape as she looked at the woman. “Ohh I know what’s going on. He’s here with that decoy and doesn’t even know that the two of you are here.” she looked between Twyla and Seamus, satisfied that she had them figured out. “Well if you wanna keep it that way, I suggest you stay here.” and with that she began to walk towards Neville and (Y/n).

“I say we just go after her.” Seamus blurted, beginning to stand up as Gisele began to converse with them. Twyla’s eyes widened, wrapping her hand around his wrist as she dragged him back down.

“We can’t just go over there! Do you know how upset they’d be if they knew we followed them?” she hissed, causing him to sigh, giving her an annoyed look. “Listen, I know you’re worried. So am I! But we’ve gotta watch how it plays out first! Who knows they may surprise us!” Seamus nodded, sitting back in his chair fully. However, she could tell he still wasn’t satisfied. Looking down at her purse, her eyes lit up.

“Hey! Why don’t we put our disguises on that way if it escalates, we’ll be ready! Besides, I wonder what you’ll look like with ginger hair.” she said, wiggling the ginger wig towards him, poking him in the shoulder with her free hand. He looked between her and the wig before grabbing it, putting it on. After it was situated on his head, she handed him the matching mustache and mutton chops to go along with it. Once he was situated, he turned to ask Twyla a question but was caught off guard. She had on a short black wig, a set of bushy brows and a mustache to match. They sat in silence as they looked at each other before they began to howl with laughter, cutting each other off with wheezing and swear words.

“My dress! Look what you did to me!” they heard a loud annoying voice yell, causing the restaurant to grow quiet, including them. They looked at each other before nodding, beginning to walk over to the table. Twyla waved her hand, a set of matching restaurant uniforms appearing on top of them.

“Is there a problem ma’am? Sir?” Seamus asked, causing the three to turn towards them. He had to stop himself from laughing at the way the vein on his boss’s forehead began to twitch. (Y/n) went to say something but Twyla stopped her, holding a finger up to her on mustached lip.

“Yeah we got a complaint from the head chef. You’re to be escorted out of here immediately. Come along now.” Twyla said, gripping Gisele’s arm. As they began to drag her away, she leaned close to the woman’s ear. “Checkmate.” she whispered, watching as the woman’s eyes grew in size. She began to stutter as the two dragged her out, tossing her to the curb roughly. 

“You idiots! You blew your cover, now what are you going to do?” she asked in a gotchaesque tone. Seamus scoffed, beginning to walk to the car. Giovani had returned, a smile on his face and a new pair of sunglasses along with it. He turned once more to look at her.

“We’re done, our job is complete.” he responded, hopping in the car as he waited for Twyla.

“Yeah? And what’s that?” she asked, still on the side of the curb. Giovani moved the car a bit, a stray puddle “accidentally soaking Gisele head to toe. The pair looked at each other smirking before turning their attention back to the model.

“Taking out the trash.”

PREVIOUS||NEXT

TAGSLIST:  @vayeya11 @pink-hufflepuff @clancyscookies @elemental-of-magic @beewitchedlou @simpforremuslupin @mottergirl99  @nevillelongbottomsgirlfriend @redpanda-poetry @vibingaesthetically @de4d-s0up  @carlisbaby

[sarahlevys]

Meme! mile by mile, 1/3/5/11 (any or all). I love this fic a lot.

Aww, thank you! I'm so glad to hear it. ❤️

mile by mile

1: What inspired you to write the fic this way?

as soon as i saw @treepyful's prompt, i knew i had to write this. i already have a lot of feelings about alexis' tendency to run away and escape, and how she evolves and grows from her old habits and instincts. as an ex-new yorker, i also have a lot of feelings about alexis returning to a city that wasn't necessarily the best for her before the show. and i also have a lot of feelings about alexis' food issues. i went on a lot of runs to brainstorm this fic, and took some very hastily-typed notes on walk breaks. a lot of those lines ended up making it into this fic in some way, shape, or form. 3: What’s your favorite line of narration?

it's a tie between this section, which summarizes a lot of the above (and includes lines from my running notes)—

She thinks of her last training run, when she'd covered eighteen miles throughout Manhattan. She thinks of the sun warming her shoulders as the seasons change, how much she loves the percussive reliability of her shoes hitting the pavement, how she's learned to become happy with just herself and her thoughts.

The new Alexis is pretty great, no matter how much she weighs.

—and then some of the running references i slipped into the narration, trying to be clever. here are my two favorites:

There's still that quiet terror to manage, so palpable that Alexis can nearly feel it between her ribs, but she breathes through it like she'd work through a stitch in her side.

and:

Alexis runs her other hand up Twyla's arm, grazing her fingers over the mile-markers of her freckles and following them up to Twyla's shoulders, Twyla's neck, Twyla's face. 5: What part was hardest to write?

if you haven't noticed, i have a tendency to write fics as fests are posting. this was no exception 😅 i wrote a good chunk of it on a plane, on the way to my sister's wedding, lol. so writing and submitting this late was already stressful. but content-wise, i spent a lot of time trying to make sure that the development of their throuple made sense and felt organic. i did a lot of brainstorming with @middyblue to figure it out. 11: What do you like best about this fic?

it was never really about the marathon.

(ask me a question about one of my fics)

[mhdiaries]

13 Wishes Twyla Diary

The Sixth of September

When you spend your unlife living in the shadows you get used to seeing things that are missed and missing things that are seen. Lately though, I feel like I’m missing more than I’m seeing, like today, for instance. There is a little garden cemetery not far from Monster High where I like to go and contemplate the simple joys of monsterhood. It has a little fountain with a park bench and a simply ginormous creeping willow tree. It’s like a giant umbrella that casts the most amazing shadows. Most of the time I am the only monster there except on Wednesday when a group of troll ladies show up to play bridge. Anyway, I was sitting in my usual spot today with my back to the tree facing away from the fountain. I heard footsteps and voices approaching. I thought it was probably some monsters coming to pay their ghast respects and I didn’t want to disturb them, so I just sat still. If I am in the shadows and I do not move or open my eyes I cannot be seen. As the footsteps got closer I recognized the voices - it was Lagoona and Gil. They were arguing about something and they stopped right next to the fountain. Now I could have just stepped from the shadow I was in to a shadow somewhere else, but I didn’t. I stayed because I’m a bad monster. I am not going to write down what they said though, because if some other monster ever reads this it’d be like betraying a trust. But I was sad the rest of the day over what I heard. They are both so sweet and make such a great couple that I had no idea they were facing such outside pressure on their relationship. I guess I was looking but not seeing. I really wish they could get this problem resolved, but some things can’t be wished away, only worked through. Eventually Gil left, but Lagoona stayed a little bit longer. She sat for a while, and I could hear her crying. I guess at that point I wanted so much to just run over and hug her, but I couldn’t. I know, I know, I’m a terrible monster, but I didn’t know what to do. That’s not true, I mean the terrible monster part is, but I should have just gone over and given her a hug...epic fail. I waited a bit after Lagoona left and then I left too.

The Tenth of September

Being able to jump from one shadow to another without having to step into the light means that I can avoid talking to other monsters if I don’t want. It’s not that I don’t like other monsters, but I feel kind of awkward sometimes, like maybe I’ll say or do something wrong and embarrass myself. I remember I’d been at MH for a while but I hadn’t really made any friends. Not because the other students hadn’t been nice to me, they were, I just always sort of disappeared before I let them get too close. I remember the day that I got cornered, literally. I was sitting by myself in the very back corner of the creepateria at a table underneath a burned out light that was casting a nice big shadow. I was just eating my lunch and watching when Howleen started walking my way. I sat still knowing that she wouldn’t be able to see me but I didn’t want to leave either cause I was hungry. So she came over and sat right down across from me. She sniffed a couple times and said, “PB&J?” “Eww cam seef me?” I answered with a mouth full of sandwich. “Nah, but I can smell you.” “Nobway!” “Of course I can, I’m a werewolf, and the nose knows. You smell like dust and strawscarry jam.” I started to excuse myself, but Howleen asked me not to, “I really don’t feel like eating lunch by myself - would you mind hanging out?” So I didn’t disappear, I stayed and I made a friend for unlife plus I didn’t embarrass myself even once. #WinWin

 The First of October

Usually Dustin meets me at the door when I get home from school, but he wasn’t waiting for me today. I called for him but he didn’t come. I checked all his usual hiding places: under the bed, behind the doors, in all the corners, but he was nowhere to be found. I started to get worried. I even went outside to look, although he hasn’t been out on his own since the day a big wind flew him into the blackscary brambles. I went back inside and was just about to start making lost posters to hand out around the neighborhood when I heard thump scratch - thump scratch - thump scratch. I looked up and there was Dustin, covered in glitter, double stick tape and beads. He had taken a nap in my craft box, and the end from a roll of necklace wire had wrapped around his foot while the spool had gotten stuck in the box. I would have taken a picture with my iCoffin, but he just looked so pitiful. It took me two hours to get him all cleaned up. I’ll have to save dryer lint for a week to patch all the bare places.

The Fifteenth of October

I went to Howleen’s house for a sleep over. It was cool getting to know her family. I mean I’d seen Clawd and Clawdeen around school, but this was the first time I really officially met them. I wish now I hadn’t waited so long because I feel like I missed out on some good times being so shy. I also got to meet another one of Howleen’s sisters. Her name is Clawdia and she’s going to college in Londoom. She actually wasn’t “there” so we talked to her online with video chat. She is studying to be a writer. She’s really funny and she had everybody in the house cracking up about what it’s like living in Londoom. Clawdeen left and went to fang out with Draculara and Frankie at Frankie’s house, so Howleen and I stayed up late talking. We’ve got like tons in common, we like the same TV shows, the same music - Catty Noir ‘natch, the same kind of styles and we even think the same boys are cute. The one thing that we don’t see eye to eye on is the need to be popular. I don’t care if I am and Howleen feels like is she isn’t she’ll disappear in the shadows of her older siblings. I told her that living in the shadows wasn’t all that bad, but she was totally focused on being in the spotlight. Eventually though she got out of her funk, and we spent the rest of the night watching movies. We had a scary cool time, and I can’t remember when I have ever laughed so hard. When Howleen fell asleep I snuck out and grabbed a late nightmare snack. I got back before morning and woke up to the smell of banana scary pancakes and bacon coming from the Wolf’s kitchen. So much fun and so happy to have a friend! Maybe I’ll try and spend a little more time out of the shadows from now on...maybe.

The Twenty-fifth of October

Most monsters stay away from normies as much as they can, my family not so much. We have what my dad calls a “symbiotic relationship” with normies, only they don’t know it. They think the Boogeyman hangs out under beds and in their closets to scare them, but that’s not it at all. We are “dream eaters” -- well, nightmare eaters, actually. We hide in the shadows and watch for them; then when we see one we pounce! It’s why our eyes glow in the dark so we can see the dreams. Of course we can’t see what’s in the dreams, we recognize them by color. Yellow for happiness, red for action, blue for flying, green for fantasy and lots of in between colors and shades that mix different kind of dreams together. Nightmares are the color of storm clouds, all grey-black and menacing. I only wish my dreams could be pounced on, too, but it doesn’t work that way for us. I dreamed a dream last night that I was on a frightly lit stage in front of the whole school. I was supposed to give a speech and I forgot the topic, so I just stood there looking for a shadow to hide, but there weren’t any. Then every monster started laughing at me. I turned to run and tripped off the stage, which was suddenly at the top of a very tall tower and I was falling an falling and falling. Then I was back on the stage again, and every monster in the audience was giving me a standing ovation. I looked behind me, and there were a panel of judges holding up scorecards.

9.5   9.5   10.0   9.5   4.0

So I started arguing with the judge who gave me the 4.0 and she told me that I flapped my arms too much as I was falling. Then I woke up. I told my dad about it, and he said it was probably just something I ate. Dads are so weird. 

The Twenty-eighth of October

Howleen is not enjoying her popularity as much as she thought she would, and there are shadows in places where they should not be. I am worried, and no monster seems to be listening to me. I must find a monster that will.

[uzumaki-rebellion]

“Wet Sugar” [Part 29 of 30]

Summary: Erik and the merc head over to do the London heist and Yani accepts new gifts...

"The brotha's got this complex occupation The brotha's got this complex occupation The brotha's got this complex occupation

Me and this baby gon' be up all night long Walkin' this wood flo' 'til my man gets home I'm at the front do', I'm listening by the phone But I'm gon' be here with my make-up on It's been a long time since my man been gone But when he get here, you know I won't be gone Because I love him, love him strong Me and this baby gon' be up all night long…"

Erykah Badu—"Danger"

Erik wiped down the modified BCM Reece 14 KMR-A. It was an expensive AR-15. He added an M203 grenade launcher with vibranium alterations. The weapon was a polished obsidian dream in his hands. He had to be prepared for the Black Panther. His own blood relative. Tainted blood.

Linda sat across from him cleaning the other weapons they were bringing with them to Korea. The closer they got to their departure date, the more serious she became. He still found it excruciating to be near her, but he treated her like he treated his past military unit that he hated, just neutral all the way.

Klaue walked into the den a watched them prepare the weaponry. Erik took that moment to grab some papers he held in a folder.

"I need you to sign these so I can get the Cessna."

"Seventy-Five thousand?" Klaue groaned.

"I can get you a new one for Three-Hundred Thousand. It's your money."

"Fine, fine."

Klaue used his alias and didn't even look at the paperwork. Just signed where Erik told him to sign and picked up the AR-15 from the work table.

"You missed your calling. You could make a killing modifying weapons full time."

"I'd get bored too quick."

Klaue's eyes looked past him and onto the viewscreen above the fireplace. He turned up the volume. Erik and Linda stared at it with him.

A weather report indicated the return of the hurricane season. And a large category 4 was headed for the islands along the Atlantic.

"I'm sure you battened down the hatches in St. Thomas, Killmonger?"

"Lock stock and barrel."

At last. A tell on Linda's face. A faint blink of her eyes. Erik caught her eyes with his as she picked up another weapon to clean.

"Looks like it'll be a bad one. Hope Our Lady is prepared for it. One of the pitfalls of island life."

Erik felt his midsection tighten. The last hurricane season had been a lucky one. He wiggled his fingers and kept the focus on the radar images and the predicted touch down points. He'd keep an eye on it. Climate change had made life tricky for people globally. It concerned Erik, but he pressed on and picked up a new weapon to inspect and clean.

Linda stared at him and his face felt open and vulnerable with worry. He looked away from her.

###

"Jesus, you can't be still can yuh?"

Yani pressed her hand into her side. The baby was moving too much for her to get fully comfortable. She sat with her legs lifted up with an ottoman in Twyla's house. Boxes stood unopened around her and she was pleased with the one small box she was able to unpack.

Moving in with Twyla had been a sound financial decision. Her lease to the apartment had become month to month, and Nannette was able to find a new roommate easily. Yani's rent money would help pay Twyla's mortgage, and in exchange, Twyla was able to work fewer hours at her job and watch Sydette so Yani could continue taking summer classes with a full course load. She didn't let her pregnancy stop her from finishing up a summer session. Her medical plans were revamped to include an additional two years to finish her degree. Her mind was set on getting into a residency program by the time the new baby was three. Her grades were exceptional but more important than school-Sydette becoming herself again.

The new baby seemed to focus her daughter's anxiety and fears, and Sweet Pea blossomed once more, so excited to welcome the new dumpling.

"Be still, just for fifteen minutes, please," Yani said to her already big tummy.

Sydette ran over to her and patted her stomach.

"Go to sleep," Sydette said.

"Listen to Sweet Pea, Dumplin'."

"Mama, yuh feet so big."

"A little swelling, love."

Sydette rubbed Yani's left foot.

"Fatty feet!" Sydette giggled.

"You gave me fat feet when you were in mi belly."

"No, I didn't!" Sydette said with a smirk on her face.

"Yeah, yuh did."

The doorbell rang and Yani didn't feel like getting up from her seat.

"Get the door, Sweet Pea. Ask who it is."

Sydette ran to the door.

"Who is it? What yuh want?"

"Sydette—"

"Your Daddy."

Sydette's face beamed.

"Can you twist the button?"

"Yes, Mama. I can do it."

The main bolt on the door was left unlocked for Twyla, but Sydette was able to turn the bottom lock.

Chez stepped into the room and scooped Sydette up in his arms.

"Detty!"

Chez tickled her stomach and Sydette laughed and tried to keep his hands from tickling her further.

"Her bag is by the door," Yani said trying to get up,

"Stay where you are. I got it," he said.

Picking up Sydette's weekend bag, Chez walked near Yani.

"You look big, gyal."

"Thanks, a lot," she said.

"I'm teasing. I'll bring her back early on Sunday."

"Okay."

"Twyla home?"

"No. She'll be back in a few hours? Why?"

"I know she's looking for a car. Wanted to see if she'd want mine."

"You selling it? Thought you loved that car."

Chez put Sydette down and raised up Yani's feet as he sat on the ottoman. He rested her legs on his lap and rubbed her feet for her.

"I'm moving to Florida. Found a good-paying factory job. Good hours. I can still make music. Perform in Miami and on the East coast. It's too expensive to ship my car over. Cheaper to get another car later when I get settled. Money will be tight for a couple of months, but I'll get Sydette's child support to you as soon as can. I have a better shot there."

Yani glanced over at Sydette who held the straps to her weekend bag on her shoulders.

"When are you leaving?"

"Next month."

Yani felt her forehead.

"You should have told us sooner, Chez."

"I just got the call. I have to go where the money is, gyal. You know that. I stay here and you'll bust my ass for not having my full child support."

He held his hands out for Sydette and she skipped over to him and rested her chest on Yani's legs.

"I'm sorry I won't be here to take Detty on the weekends. I can send for her with my sister and keep her at the end of the year once I'm settled—"

"No, this new one will be here then and I need my girl with me."

Yani scratched her belly. Chez stared at her hand.

"Ooh," Yani sighed while shifting her legs on Chez.

"Kicking?"

"Too much," she said.

Yani took in Chez's face. He looked hopeful. Ready to test his wings away from the island. It was bad enough having Sydette lose Killmonger. Now she was losing her biological father to distance and a chance at a better life.

"We will miss you," she said.

Chez's eyes seemed to spark at her words. She saw his eyes well up and she was surprised to see him cover his face with his hand.

"Chez," she whispered.

Sydette crawled up onto Yani's legs and touched her father's face.

"I'm alright Detty," he said lifting her weight off of Yani.

Yani moved her legs from the ottoman and rubbed Chez's back.

"I'm okay, Yani. You ready, Detty?"

"Yes!"

Chez stood with Sydette in his arms. Yani picked up her daughter's bag and handed it back to him.

"We'll talk later, yeah?" Yani said.

"I'll call you next week with more information. I'll be staying with my Uncle until I get my own place there. Say bye, Detty!"

"Bye, Mama."

"Give me kiss."

Sydette leaned over and kissed her on the lips.

"Give Dumplin a kiss."

Chez held Sydette upside down as peals of laughter erupted from her. She kissed Yani's belly.

Watching her daughter leave with Chez, Yani thought of how life changed in the blink of an eye all the time. She rested a hand on her stomach as she stood in the doorway tracking Chez helping Sydette into his car.

"Bye!" Sydette called while waving her hand.

"Bye, Sweet Pea. I'll talk to you tomorrow."

When they left, Yani stood and let the sun warm her face. The baby tumbled and then seemed to settle.

"I wish your daddy was here, Dumplin."

Patting her belly, Yani closed the door trying her best not to dwell on Killmonger for too long.

###

Fuck.

Fuck, fuck, fuck.

Fuck!

Sitting at a table inside a small Swedish café waiting for a sandwich and some decent coffee, Erik's eyes were glued to the tablet in his hand.

"Holy shit," Klaue said staring at Erik's device.

Other people in the café were staring at cell phones or their computers.

Erik couldn't believe it and he felt a cold dragging on his stomach.

He was already agitated watching King T'Chaka receive praise for his rousing speech giving support to signing the Sokovia Accords. The Avengers had made a deadly mess in Nigeria and over one hundred nations decided they needed to be regulated and controlled, and King T'Chaka's words were splashed all over the press. Public and private superheroes and other enhanced humans had to come forward and be counted, tracked, and given permission to act for good in the future. Erik was sure more vigilantes would break out, but he didn't give a fuck because Wakanda was the only thing he wanted. Once he had his father's nation in his hand, he would blow all these enhanced fools out of the water. Take them out if they couldn't bow down to him.

All Erik wanted to do was eat the perfect open-faced smoked-salmon sandwich and spend time out of the house and away from Linda and Limbano. He hadn't planned on watching his Uncle speak at the Vienna International Centre until Klaue told him that the King of Wakanda was on tv.

Regal, gray-haired, with glasses that gave him a gentle grandfatherly look, T'Chaka Udaku told the world how Ultron stole their vibranium and how his country would not stand by and let injustices continue.

The fucking audacity.

And just like that, Erik and the world watched the room explode and the cameras cut to news footage outside. Erik wanted to yell and jammed his nails into his hands to keep himself in his seat as he saw his grip on justice slip from his fingers.

Klaue's face was stuck in the firm grip of shock.

"This is going to change some things, Killmonger," Klaue said.

Words and images flew online fast and the explosion was quickly labeled a terrorist attack.

"There will be a lot of dead in that room, mate."

Rooted in his seat, it was confirmed soon enough.

King T'Chaka Udaku was dead.

Erik stormed out of the café and walked aimlessly through the street for half an hour. His personal cell blew up and when he looked to see who it was, he answered it.

"Uncle Bakari."

"Have you heard?"

"Yes."

"Are you alright? Where are you?"

Erik stopped walking and let the familiar sound of home focus him.

"I'm in Europe now. Saw the news in a café."

"How are you feeling, Nephew?"

"I don't feel nothin'…nothin' at all."

His Uncle knew he was lying. Erik's voice sounded heavy. Brittle.

"Erik…that was your Uncle, your father's brother—"

"That man ain't shit to me!"

People walking past Erik moved around him quickly because of his tone. He headed back to the café.

"I gotta go," Erik said.

"Call me later…if you want to talk. Shavonne and I are here for you."

"Okay."

Erik swiped his phone and he checked his other cell. Two texts from Klaue.

"Hey man, I'm heading back to the café. Had to take a call from home."

"I thought you were taking this explosion a little too hard, mate," Klaue said.

"Like you said, changes some things, but we'll work around it."

"I had the shop put your food in a to-go box. I'm heading back to the house. See you there."

"Cool."

Erik ignored the café and kept walking. His left hand pressed against the left side of his waist in the space he had saved to carve King T'Chaka into his skin. Stolen from him. Whoever the fuck killed his Uncle would feel his wrath eventually, but now Erik had to deal with T'Challa taking the throne.

Erik halted.

His cousin would have to take his father's body back to Wakanda. That would end all of his travels for the next few months. He'd be where Erik wanted him to be. Birnin Zana. The golden city. The terrorists had cheated Erik of one Udaku, but they had also made his endgame easier so he could have the other one. Losing his father in a violent way would have T'Challa rattled, he was sure of that. Erik knew what that felt like. A rattled King would also be a weak King. A distracted King. One who could easily be beaten.

Erik still felt a heaviness in his chest. There was fiery anger there. Something was stolen from him once more. King T'Chaka had escaped his due punishment and it sucked the energy out of Erik. When he returned to their hideout, he climbed the stairs ignoring everyone else and went to his room, throwing himself on his bed. His mind wouldn't let his body rest and he stayed up all night clenching and unclenching his fists. He tugged on the silver chain around his neck until his fingers clasped onto his father's ring.

###

The museum added additional security two days before the opening of the African Antiquities exhibit.

Linda was able to get a job as a barista there and spent a day walking the entire museum taking more secretive photos to make sure nothing had changed since Erik had surveyed it the previous year. She kept her eye on the lead curator, a grim-lipped white woman with an elitist attitude toward employees.

They hid in a flat less than a mile away from the museum. Erik planned logistics with Klaue and Limbano was able to locate a decommissioned ambulance for cheap purchase from a scrapyard. He also procured EMT uniforms for himself and Klaue.

"That woman is a fucking tyrant!"

Linda stormed into the apartment carrying take out from the corner pub. She went into her bedroom and changed clothes before rushing back out to finish her rant.

"I have never met a person with a stick so far up their ass—"

"Cutthroat museum director getting your dander up again?" Klaue heckled.

Erik and Klaue watched her fume near the window.

"She just does shit to pick on people…for no reason! Every fucking day she gets the same coffee from my section. We know how to make her beverage because she instructs us explicitly down to the most finite detail…and yet…it's never the right way. She's just contrarian for shits and giggles. Jesus, I don't know how regular people can take that day after day."

"But she always comes to you, right?" Erik asked.

"Yeah."

Erik stood up and walked over to her. Reaching into his pocket he handed her a small plastic two-inch bag. A yellowish-white powder sat inside of it.

"What is this meth?" Linda joked.

"On D-Day, put this in her coffee cup. Don't touch it with your hands."

"Fast-acting?"

"Nah. Slow burn. Timing is everything. The moment she sips, you hit me up."

Linda pocketed the poison and grabbed her take out container. She scarfed down a sausage sandwich.

"The plane is ready for Busan," Erik said.

"Limbano will take it over and secure housing," Klaue said.

"I have enough surveillance footage looped. Their security is very sensitive, so you will have a little over an hour to get in and out without them suspecting anything on their feed," Linda said.

Klaue stared at his phone.

"I'm trying to get some intel on Jo'Burg, but Huntsman has been avoiding me," he said.

Another tell.

Linda took a large bite of her sandwich and then wiped her lips as she stared at Klaue attempting to contact the dead merc. There was a lack of confidence in her eyes. A hint of…worry? When she stopped looking at Klaue her eyes darted up and Erik stood in front of her with a can of beer in his hand.

"Maybe he has another gig that he can't get out of," Erik said.

Linda's face froze, but then she reached for the beer and took it from him. He reached into her take-out container and grabbed a few fried chips. Popping them in his mouth, he kept his gaze on her, until she stood up to throw away her empty container.

"Well I need him," Klaue said.

Linda left the room and Erik turned on his laptop and studied the museum layout. The moment Linda fed the poison to the curator, Erik would have to maneuver himself into the exhibit hall, find the vibranium, and make sure the curator stayed near him. Reconnaissance video showed that she hovered throughout the space ninety-percent of the time, and if she was anal about her coffee, she would be anal about hawking his Black ass when he lingered around the room. Once she was down, they'd terminate distractors and make a body switch out into the ambulance smuggling out the vibranium. He just needed to find it quickly.

He switched his screen to the online exhibit brochure and paid attention to the pieces he suspected would be laden with the good stuff.

"What's going on with Bonnie?" Klaue asked.

"Bonnie?"

Klaue pointed to him.

"You're Clyde…she's Bonnie…for fucks sake. Bonnie and Clyde?"

Erik rolled his eyes.

"You two getting along?"

"Yeah."

"She seems distant…not distant…more like preoccupied."

Erik shrugged.

"She seems normal to me."

"Keep an eye on her."

"You getting bad vibes or something?"

"Not sure. I feel like she tiptoes around you. The usual banter between you two seems forced. Not as playful as it used to be."

"I think she's stressed because we are dealing with the C.I.A. now. A lot more hoops to jump through with them once we arrive in Busan."

"I don't think that's it."

"Want me to ask her what's up?"

"Yeah. If things are shaky—"

"I'll take care of it if it is."

Klaue patted Erik's thigh in an off-hand gesture as he stood up.

"Good boy," he said walking over to the window and pulling out a cigar from his shirt pocket.

###

Erik pulled on the non-prescription glasses once he arrived by taxi to the museum.

He made sure to pass by Linda's coffee cart as he strolled into the building. She had already looped the security feed. The morning crowd was gone and the afternoon patrons trickled in. A free public lecture on Benin art attracted a large crowd. He tapped an earbud in his right ear.

"Miss Sunshine has sipped her special brew," Linda said, "she's heading your way."

Erik slowed down and pretended to be interested in an oil painting. The museum director took another sip of her coffee and spotted Erik lingering. He eased away from the painting and headed toward the West African exhibit area. From his peripheral, he saw the director locked on him along with some suited security that tried to look discreet.

The moment he entered the exhibit hall, he steered himself to a glass exhibit displaying a few masks and metal spears. His vibram tattoo didn't itch, and the reflection of the glass showed the director's approach. Another white man in a suit and tie watched him also, his fingers clasped in front of him.

"Good morning, how can I help you?"

Her voice sounded annoyed. Erik turned his head to the left and looked at her with a smile on his face. Her eyes saw his gold slugs and he saw the internal shift she made to deal with him.

"I'm just checkin' out these artifacts. They tell me you're the expert"

"Ah, you could say that…"

Erik skillfully nudged her toward the display he was after. The itch in his gums let him know he had hit jackpot when he read the title cards. Aunt Serah was a fucking boss. Vibranium hidden as a mislabeled Fula hammer. Ole girl rubbed her stomach. Erik knew the poison was waking up in her body. She sounded so confident telling him where she thought the hammer came from. The bitch probably worked Aunt Serah's nerves.

"Nah…"

Her eyes glared at him and her mouth gave a small quirk as if she wanted to burp but couldn't.

"I beg your pardon," she said, her voice sounding surprised.

Erik gave her a quick once over.

"It was taken by British soldiers in Benin, but it's from Wakanda…and it's made out of vibranium."

The rasp in his voice startled her and she clutched her stomach a little harder.

Erik smirked.

"Don't trip, I'ma take it off your hands for you."

"These items aren't for sale."

She elongated the word sale in a way meant to put Erik in his place. The slow rise of heated anger rose in his gut. Fucking thieves.

"How do you think your ancestor's got these? You think they paid a fair price? Or did they take it like they took everything else?"

The bite in his voice startled her. He saw one of the security men inch closer to them.

"Sir I'm going to have to ask you to leave…"

Her voice stopped and she looked toward her minions as she coughed. Erik stepped in close and whispered in her ear.

"You got all this security in here watching me…ever since I walked in. But you ain't checkin' for what you put in your body."

The director gasped and looked at her coffee cup.

"Klaue and Limbano are in position," Linda said in his ear.

Erik smiled.

"C'mon mate…"

A security guard tugged on Erik's jacket, pulling him away from the distressed director.

"I think she might not be feelin' too good…"

The director dropped like a pile of bricks hitting the floor.

"Jam those phones, Linda," Erik whispered.

Erik called for help loudly as three security men surrounded the director on the floor.

"Klaue, Limbano…you're on deck," Linda said.

Less than five minutes later Klaue and Limbano came running in with a stretcher.

"Step back please, gents, step back please," Klaue yelled.

The guards ushered museum-goers toward the exit in the opposite direction. Erik lingered and watched Klaue.

Pistols with high-grade silencers were used to take out two of the guards. Klaue toyed with the third giving the man false hope of survival.

"You can go, but just don't tell anyone, alright?"

Klaue winked at the guard and the man took off running. He let him get twenty feet away before he nickeled the man's brains. The body fell hard.

"Bruh, why you ain't just shoot him right here?"

"Because it's better to leave the crime scene more spread out…makes us look like amateurs."

"I'll meet you guys outside," Linda said in his ear.

"Let's do this," Erik said, guiding Klaue to the vibranium.

Klaue took off the glove on his prosthetic hand and held it up to the exhibit. A sonic pulse shattered the glass and Klaue grabbed the Wakandan hammer. He used his pulse sensors to gently shake off centuries of rust and grit and history. He smelled the metal and laughed.

"You better sell that quick."

"Oh it's already sold," Klaue said bragging. He broke the handle off of the tool and glanced at Limbano to move.

A mask caught Erik's eyes.

He moved over to the standing display and leaned down to look it over carefully.

Regal horns crowned the top as intricate and very detailed carving told a bold story on the blue and steel gray stained wood. The title card said "Warrior Mask, Benin 17th Century". Erik snatched the mask off the metal rod it sat on.

"You're not telling me that's vibranium too, eh?"

"Nah, I'm just feelin' it."

###

Yani's favorite part of laundry day was pulling clean clothes out of the dryer and then folding them. Especially when she tossed in a laundry freshener sheet and everything smelled extra clean.

A clean rain fell outside as she put away Sydette's clothes and her own. She had even washed some of her daughter's old newborn outfits that she would use for Dumplin.

Sydette was sound asleep on her bed in the room she shared with Yani, and once everything was put away, Yani waddled out to the living room where Twyla was braiding Leona's hair and watching tv.

Yani stepped into the kitchen to make herself some fresh cocoa on the stove. She put milk in a saucepan on low and closed the kitchen window. The baby was resting easy inside of her. The day had been a calm one lugging that child inside of her around. One day she would see her feet again and be reacquainted with her toes.

"Yani!"

Twyla's loud shriek startled her and Yani moved as fast as she could back into the living room. Leona was grabbing the remote from Twyla and turning the sound up. The BBC news was on. Klaue's picture took up half the screen on the wall.

"Them find his body," Leona said.

"Shh! Let's hear it," Twyla hissed.

A British-Indian woman anchor told a horrible narrative and Yani wanted to cover her ears, but she stood with a heavy belly, wide-eyed and mouth open as the world was informed that the notorious arms dealer, Ulysses Klaue of South Africa, was found dead in Korea with two others. A woman. And another man. All of Klaue's business was put out into the world and even Twyla's face showed shock because of what the man was accused of doing for so many years. Killing. Arms dealing. Illegal transactions all over the world.

It was all sordid and nasty and so much more horrifying seeing it on the tv.

Killmonger was part of that, and now—

"Yani!"

Twyla moved away from the chair Leona sat in and grabbed Yani's shoulders and eased her onto the couch.

"I'm okay, I just felt a little faint," Yani said.

The headline news moved on to other things and Leona turned down the sound and switched channels.

"They didn't say his name," Yani insisted out loud.

"Calm down," Twyla said.

"They just said Klaue, and then a man and a woman. And there were no photos of him."

Her voice took on a pleading quality.

"Something's burning," Leona said rushing into the kitchen.

"Him not dead. He can't be—"

"They didn't say his name, so no one knows."

"I can look online."

Yani tried to get up, but her weight made it hard to move quickly enough. She felt the baby kicking her side and she gasped. The sharpness hurt. She had upset Dumplin.

"Relax cuz. Be easy, yeah?"

Yani nodded and leaned back.

"Whatever you were trying to make, that milk is ruined," Leona said.

Yani closed her eyes.

Please let me know you're okay, man.

Other news channels that mentioned Klaue only said the same thing. He was shot and killed and found in Korea. Two other bodies with him.

There was nothing Yani could do. Fretting about it would just get her worked up and the baby would feel it. So she focused on getting through the rest of the day with Sydette. Dinner. Bath time. Storytelling time. Sleep.

Yani curled her body around soft pillows and tried to rest her mind. She had to accept not knowing for sure. In the middle of the night, she lumbered out of bed and went to the living room to look on her laptop for any more information. Just various networks giving brief mentions, and then just as quick as the story came…it went.

A week went by and nothing new was reported. Her Aunt was now unemployed permanently from the man. And poor Jerome. Who would spoil him now if they couldn't walk onto the compound anymore? He would think that everyone abandoned him.

So silly. To worry about an iguana as much as she worried about her baby's father.

She touched her chest as her face grew tight. None of her children had their fathers in their life at that moment. Sydette would see Chez eventually in a few months, but Dumplin? Dumplin just had her.

She groaned and lowered her head. Breathing through her mouth she squeezed her hands into fists.

"Oh Lord," she whispered out loud.

She placed her right hand under her stomach.

"Twyla," she called out.

She stood up from the chair in the kitchen.

"Twyla."

"Yeah?"

Her cousin twisted her hair as she stepped into the room.

Yani grabbed a cup and poured water into it from a bottle. She concentrated on swallowing every drop and then turned to face her cousin.

"Dumplin is coming."

"Right now?"

"My contractions are now about thirty minutes apart. I've been keeping track all day."

"All day? You've been in labor all day?"

Twyla's face was bewildered.

"This is baby number two, remember?"

Yani grinned but Twyla's face was still frozen with surprise.

"I'll call Auntie and your Mom."

"Good. I'm going to walk a bit and track my progress while I call my doctor."

"Okay."

Twyla ran to the living room and Yani walked into her bedroom. Sydette was on her bed playing with her dolls.

"Hey, Sweet Pea. Go put your jacket and shoes on. Dumplin is coming."

Sydette's face lit up and she gave a loud whoop as she scrambled to find her shoes.

Yani held both sides of her stomach as she looked down at it.

"Hold on. Give me some time to get to the hospital, yeah?"

Sydette ran out of the room.

"Auntie! Auntie! The baby is coming!"

Yani smiled.

"Take your time, Dumplin. No rush, love. I'm here for you."

###

She was so tired.

By the time the last relative left the house and Sydette was put to bed sound asleep, Yani was able to sit in her new rocking chair and feed the baby. Fourth day home with the newborn and every relative had finally gotten a chance to see the bad man on the hill's child.

Dumplin.

Erik Paradise Galiber-Stevens.

Affectionately known as Riki by the rest of the family.

Nine pounds, four ounces.

Twyla took one look at him and exclaimed, "Dumplin? Tuh, this child is a beef patty."

The boy had the lustiest cry when he came out from between Yani's legs. Twyla cried the entire time she held Yani's hand in her private maternity room. Sydette had a side seat to watch everything and she was a better coach than her cousin. Her mother held Sydette and when her baby brother came out heavy and healthy, Sweet Pea shouted, "Don't cry, I'll help you!"

She had to have stitches, but she was glad that the birth wasn't as labor intensive as Sydette's had been. By the time she was rolled into the hospital to have him, Riki was out three hours later. Fat, vibrant, and restless. Arms and legs constantly moving like he had somewhere to go.

"Are you still sure about 'Paradise'?" Twyla said watching her breastfeed her son.

"What's wrong with that for a middle name? He was conceived in paradise and I want him to know that. What do you think it should be?"

"Lil Big Nigga—"

"Shut up!"

"He on them titties like his Daddy—"

"Twyla!"

"You know it's true."

"Nasty."

"Runs in the family. Before I forget—"

Twyla walked into her room and came back with a handful of mail.

"This all came to Auntie's house addressed to you. It was forwarded from your old place. All your bills."

Yani tilted Riki's head back and wiped his lips.

"Can you burp him for me?"

Yani took the mail as Twyla took the baby.

"Oh, stop fussing, you can have them titties again in a minute, greedy boy. Yuh Mama not going anywhere…Yani…what is it?"

"This came from Korea."

Yani felt her heart patter a little faster.

The manilla envelope had a typed address label on it for her apartment. The return address was written in Korean. The stamped date was recent. Five days previous.

"Open it," Tywla encouraged.

Yani took her time tearing open the flap. She took a deep breath and pulled out several sheets of heavy paper. She stared at them, looking over every single one carefully. When she lifted her eyes up to Twyla, she could barely breathe.

"Yuh scaring me cuz."

Yani was still in pain from having the baby, so she couldn't jump up like she wanted. She opened her mouth but she couldn't get words out.

"Yani…fuck…what is it?"

"Me and Auntie…"

"You and Auntie what?"

"We own the compound. These are deeds to all three houses."

Yani stared at the thick papers.

"Auntie gets the first house. I get Klaue's house, and we both share the middle house. It's the fucking deeds. We own everything free and clear."

"Yuh fucking lying!"

Riki whimpered from the volume of Twyla's voice.

"Killmonger did this. I know it. It's Klaue's signature on the transfer of everything, but…this is Killmonger."

Yani stared at her newborn son, his silky curls, button nose, full lips, and bright brown eyes so perfect. So much like his father.

"Dumplin, your Daddy gave us everything."

Part 30 Conclusion HERE

###

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