#chubby oc

[thedecayingflower]

Redesigning this old oc!! (She was first made 12th January (this year) on ibispaint!!)

Drawing of her I did 2 days ago (before I decided she needed a redesign)

Here's the redesign!! (She comes from the deep sea (the big form) she's really darker colours with alot of green lights on her body to be able to see! She also has the smaller form, which is got when she's close to land (to not scare animals+won't drown)

The reason why shes chubby is to keep warm in the cold deep sea!

THAYS ALL BAIII (SHES A LMK OC BTW)

[muffinvikingart]

Is she cute? 👉🏻👈🏻🥺

[notamirelurk]

My Starbound character Wanna. I love her a lot and I'm very happy with this simple ref for her :3

[dutiful-wildcraft]

Lies and Alibis

Part 2, Previous, Next

Nikolai/Plus Size F!OC

This one's a bit longer! Nothing to scary, but their is some violence. Again this is a bit silly and very self indulgent, please enjoy!!!

banner by @/une-femme-de-lettres

Life or death situations really do sober you up, which is really handy considering very big men with very big guns were now looking for her. She tries not to tremble too badly as she scans the bathroom for something, anything really to help her.

Best case scenario, she escapes with all her limbs intact. Preferably. 

Worst case scenario, they bust in and simply kill her then, a quick bullet to the dome. There were certainly more worse scenarios…but there was no time to line all those details out. She shudders. 

Think think think.

Locking the door would only make her presence inside more obvious. 

Find a weapon? She's seen broads in movies use the ceramic back of the toilet as pretty solid weapon before, she knows if she clocks someone just right it would at least knock them out. 

She peers into the stall, and of course there isn't one. Stupid automatic flusher. 

She turns again, eyes the small windows lining the far wall and nearly curses. She couldn't even fit her tits through the opening let alone the rest of her. Who the fuck even makes a window like that?

She can hear more yelling outside, and her heart pounds. She wasn't going to make it out. Not without someone seeing her.

She’s desperate, mind racing as a very hairbrained thought occurs to her.

If she was going to die cartoonishly, her fat ass wasn't going to be shot to swiss cheese hanging out of window she most certainly was going to get stuck in. Instead she works the glass pane open, pushing it as far as it could go before peeling off her heels and tossing them haphazardly onto the floor below the opening. 

With the clock ticking she scampers on bare feet into the handicap stall, leaving the door open a crack and climbing onto the toilet in the far corner. She was thankful that nicer bathrooms didn't have a crack a mile wide between the frames. She hunkers a bit, feet on the bowl with her ass resting against the wall to brace her. 

This was stupid, really.  Beyond stupid, suicidal even. But her mama did not raise a quitter. 

The door opens and her heart catches in her throat. She holds her breath as a pair of footsteps echo against the pearly tile. One set coming closer as the other kicks open the other closed stalls ahead of her. Oh god. She was going to die like this. On a toilet, Elvis style. She almost starts to cry, clutching her hands over her mouth to stifle her trembling breaths.

I escaped, I escaped. 

A voice rings out in the quiet, disbelieved barking.

“Blyat, Sbezhal!!”

What.

More cursing. A frantic phone call, and hurried steps out of the bathroom follow.

She waits. That…that seriously worked.

Holy shit. That worked.

She climbs down on shakey legs and puts an ear to the door, listening carefully for any more noise. The commotion must have cleared the place, and she cracks the door into the dead quiet. She'd planned to bolt, hit the door and run for her fucking life, but she thinks of her knight in glittering gold jewelry.

She doesn't know why now out of all times she feels guilty for a random russian mobster. He couldn't have been too much better than these other men, and for all she knows if it was his business she was poking into he would have had her murked too.

He helped you.

For reasons unknown, or perhaps even nefarious, but she didn't know that, just like he didn't know having her on his arm would get him a gun stock to the face.

Her eyes flicker between the door to her escape and the long hallway they'd taken him, and she sighs, long and ill suffering. 

-

This is beyond stupid, she grouses inwardly, crawling her way underneath another set of hallway length windows in an effort to not get her head blown off by the rifle toting jarhead she'd seen walking the perimeter. 

She didn't have much besides “Grab Nikolai and Leave”. The details around even that fuzzy, not to mention the man may or may not be dead…or at minimum very angry with her. She pauses dead for a second, a little spinning wheeling flashing in her mind's eye as she slowly works that problem out.

…maybe he won't be so mad if she helps him. He could at least get them out of there and hunt her another day. 

Too late to go back now. 

From what they could tell they were searching the woods for her. What remnants of the dinner party left long gone in the aftermath, with just a few men and her knight left. 

She continues following the trail of blood and black skid marks from well polished shoes down fancy tiled corridors. Pausing around the corner as the sound of wet thuds and pained grunts hit her ears, followed by more seething russian.

Words so snarled she can barely understand. Something about her, betrayal, stupidity. Their captive rasps. Feigning ignorance.

No, not feigning, telling the truth. As the familiar voice definitely belonged to Nikolai, a light edge to it despite his predicament. Her heart pangs with guilt. This was definitely her fault.

She's fully prepared to play the waiting game, find a place to hide until at least one of the guards leaves the room. That is until she hears the light tap of a shoe on tile far too late, turning just in time to catch the pistol careening with her face.

-

Fucking, ow. 

Her head bounces off the marble and she sees stars, body laying limply on the floor as she attempts to reboot.

He'd definitely busted her head open, hopefully she wouldn't need stitches, but probably considering she could already feel the blood slipping into her hairline. 

And as she takes stock of herself, she realizes that he definitely thinks he's knocked her out, judging by the way he bitches, grumbling about her weight before unceremoniously grabbing her ankle and dragging her along.

She bites her tongue, forces herself to fall limp despite the radiating pain in her skull. Cracking like lightning as her head thunks between the grout. 

Eventually she's stopped, her thick leg flung hatefully to the floor as a door slams behind her. She keeps still. Listening. There was another, ragged labored breaths. She dares to crack her eye just a smidgen, taking in the blurry visage that was Nikolai, his limp black locks hiding his face from her view.

Okay. Target located. She hadn't necessarily planned playing possum to get there but hey, a win is a win. 

Win number two, a knocked out fat girl was apparently not threatening enough to justify security. Her arms and legs left splayed lifelessly beside her and undisturbed.

The door clicks again. Followed by heavy footsteps.

New problem.

She cracks her eye again, watching the guard stalk back and forth through the blurred slit of her eyelids. His back, thankfully toward her. 

He's yapping again, yanking Nikolai back by the hair to sneer. Monologuing as power hungry idiots are wont to do.

Her eyes scan the room fully now. She can make this work. He's bigger than her but she's got enough ass to swing hard if she needs to. Enough pressure in the right place can knock anyone out. Jaw, temple, base of skull, she lists. 

Her eyes search, lamp, chair, paperweight, all doable but loud….her eyes fall just above her. Pretty velvet curtains tied back neatly with thick, golden tasseled chord. Bingo.

Keeping her eyes glued to her chatty assailant she reaches upward, fingers barely grasping at the silky strands before tugging it down the length of the curtain, catching it swiftly before it could thunk against the floor. 

She'd needed to be quick for her next trick. She eases herself up. Wrapping the chord around both palms, steeling herself for what could very well be the worst decision she's ever made. Cut off blood supply, crush his windpipe. She pictures the anatomy in her head, and before she can bitch out she lunges, throwing the chord around his throat and yanking.

There's a choked gasp as she twists, turning her body 180 and pulling down sharply, attempting to use her own weight to assist in strangling the man. He thrashes against her back, nearly toppling them both over.  She's too short, his legs still able to scrabble against the ground.

Fuck, fuck, fuck.

She twists again, maneuvering her arms to twist the makeshift garrote around his throat into more of a noose. They both stumble in the struggle, falling to the floor in a heap. 

Absolutely fucking not.

She scrambles, keeping the chord pulled taut around the guards neck as she kicks her feett out, planting them both against the man's shoulders and yanking with all her might. Keeping her legs stiff and holding onto the chord for dear life, palms straining as she simultaneously pushes and pulls.

He really flails now, legs kicking and eyes bulging. Dull nails drawing blood against her calves and ankles where he fights to claw her off. She'd be impressed with his tenacity had she not been fearing for her own life. How fucking long did it take to strangle someone?

“Pull harder, zaychonok” a voice rasps over the gurgling and choking in the room. Nikolai.

And she does, grunting with the effort as she pushes with her knees, keeping the chord pulled tight against her chest, whole body beginning to tremble with the effort. 

“pull, keep pulling, more, more”

The man at her feet tries to howl, frothing and flailing desperately before there is a sickening pop. His body falling limp and silent. She sags, panting harshly, letting her cheek rest against the cool tile of the floor. Her hands throbbed, burned and bloodied from the rope, but she was alive, blessedly alive.

Which could not be said for the guard. 

She shoots up, flinging the chord viciously from her hands and stares at him. He's dead alright, head cranked at an unnatural angle, dead eyes bulging and painted red from broken vessels. His neck painted in varying shades of red and purple. 

It makes her stomach churn. 

She stares at the body, her memory carving his corpse into the inside of her skull. It’s not that she hadn't seen a dead body before, she's seen plenty. She's just…never been the direct result of a dead body. The words Do No Harm, echoes in her brain. 

“Zaya”

She flinches, eyes bouncing to Nikolai who watches her carefully.  “Fetch me his knife” he instructs, and his voice is soft, surprisingly gentle given the situation. She follows, moving on autopilot to flip the thug over and snag the knife from his belt. 

She stumbles toward him. Clumsy like a newborn foal as she cuts the zip ties from his wrists with trembling fingers. Vehemently ignoring looking at the dead man on the floor. 

Nikolai makes a little relieved sound, rubbing his aching wrists as she circles back around. He carefully tugs the knife from her hands, never taking his eyes off of her as he slides it against his belt.

“Good job” he murmurs, hooking a hand a bit to roughly against her shoulder. Shaking her from her thoughts again. The poor man looks rough, they both do. Thankfully it’s something she thinks a few stitches and a bath couldn't fix. But something else occurs to her.

“You speak english.” she deadpans, staring at him with exhausted eyes, and this mad bastard has the gall to let out a small wet laugh.

“Very observant” he chuckles, patting her shoulder moving across the room on stiff legs. He plucks a handgun from the desk drawer and checks the magazine. Satisfied , he slides it into his belt, bending again to pick up the guard’s fallen handgun making the same check. He eyes her with a raised brow.

“Can I trust you with this?”

She swallows hard, nods. It’s been a while, but she knows how to use it. 

He approaches, quickly going over the safety, how to clear it, before pushing it into her hand. His warm palm slides over the metal, gripping her wrist securely. He folds his chin to his chest, looking into her eyes. Holding her attention. 

“Stay close to me, keep your hand off the trigger, we will survive.”

“Da” she repeats, preening just a bit as he smiles at her.

[fawnagirlfae-art]

This took four days and I'm glad it's finally done

She's who I am currently playing in Dungeons and Dragons

Her name is Nora. She was an oath-broken paladin barbarian, but she's been rekindling with her deities. Oh, she's also a Halfling! Still trying to figure out what the other half is 🤔

[rin-rin-winter]

My first tmnt mini comic!:'3

"First meeting"

[fariswheelsstuff]

Silly Halloween fic!

On Halloween you and your man decided to have a stay at home day with popcorn and horror movies, can’t forget the candy of course!

He was supposed to be home half a hour ago, you have been texting and calling him but no response back..

What the fuck is he doing..?

You said to yourself, feeling sad, maybe he had to work late or maybe he just forgot..

BANG

The door to your apartment slams open, making your spine twitch with fear, you slowly got up and walked over to the door, you saw yours boyfriends jacket and boots so you knew it was him

Hey doll, you scared?

Your boyfriend whispered with naughty intent into your ear, he was dressed up as ghost face. he grabbed your plush hips and pressed you into him, one arm placed firmly on your waist so that you couldn’t turn around, the other moving up, up, up your shirt to touch your bare tits..

Bad girl…wearing nothing but your satin shorts and a tank..? Well..I guess I’ll just have to fuck you silly to teach you a lesson..you’d like that wouldn’t you? Fucking you raw and full, hitting all of your pleasure spots and making you squirm..all of those delicious sounds that come from your pussy when I pound you, Doll just thinking about it I’m already so hard..”

You felt your boyfriend’s long, girthy length fully hard under your ass, a soft moan escaped his lips at all of his dirty words..

[chonk-dealership]

A somewhat fast ref for my boy Erin. Finally I'm happy with his design and body type :> Also finally happy with his dragon form too

[jr-acrux101]

Rebirth - Ch. 3:

School

Word count : 3.9k

Summary: First days of school together.

☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆

☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆

The blaring alarm was shut off when Aurora threw a pillow at it, and it fell. It was probably broken, but she didn't care. Amora stepped into the room, sighed, and put her hands on her hips.

"Come on my little sleeping beauty get up." Aurora groaned.

Amora shifted closer and started to poke Aurora cheeks, "Come on pumpkin."

When that sweet and thoughtful approach didn't work Amora started to shake her, "Shake the baby awake shake the baby."

"Okay, okay, stop, you're gonna break my neck, christ." Aumora chuckled and stopped but not letting her fall back.

"Come on, sleepy head, get ready." Aurora gave her a blank stare but nodded. Amora finally let her go but gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Okay, I have to go to work. You be good and start making Abuela's coffee and make sure her cigarette is by the coffee, just one, remember. Lord knows that women could smoke up 4 cartons and still outlive us." Her mother rolled her eyes but headed.

Aurora gave her mom a kiss on the cheek as well and grumbled, "Bye." Her mother yelled "Bye" one more time as she put her shoes on and headed towards her Jeep.

Aurora started to rise out of bed slowly. She huffed and kicked off the blanket. She brushed her teeth and washed her face, put on: vitamin c, moisturizer, sunscreen, a bit of concealer around her dark circles, slightly smudged winged eyeliner and mascara. She went back into her room and threw clothes on the bed. There were her warming tights, a skirt, blue jeans, a cropped long sleeve, and a black hoodie. She opted for the jeans, sleeves, hoodie - based on outside, it looked a little chilly. She brushed her hair and did 2 little braids.

She looked in the mirror, ' Not bad, not bad at all.' She grabbed her backpack and went down stairs, she made her grandmothers coffee and grabbed a cigarette from the 'stash' - as her mom called it - and put it right next to it. She glanced at the time and rushed to the room right next to the dining room. "¡Abuela voy a la escuela, tu café está listo!"

"Si si cariño, adios!" With that, Aurora walked down the stone path to the sidewalk to the Swan residence.

Bella just closed the door, she saw Aurora and waved. "You ready?"

The girl grinned, "As I'll ever be." She hopped in the passenger side, and Bella started to drive.

(Loose translation: Grandma I'm going to school, you're coffe is ready!

Yes yes honey bye!"

They pulled into the parking lot and parked next to a van.

A mocking voice was heard, "Nice ride." Bella just ignored them while Aurora flipped them off.

They walked together inside rowards the office, Aurora’s mom was waiting for them, talking to the secretary with slips in her hands.

She noticed the two teenage girls and smiled. She finished her conversation and went to Aurora. She gave her a side hug, then gave Bella a warm smile.

"Hello girls, here are your classes. Made sure I got them ready for when you came in case you came in late." She winked and handed the papers to them, " Okay, well, I have to get back to work, I'll probably stay late a bit. Do you want to stay with me cariño?"

"I can take you home, I don't plan on staying after school." Bella gave the offer before Aurora answered.

"It's okay, Mama. I'll ride with Bella home, I want to be for sure caught up with everything for school."

Amora smiled again and nodded. "Okay, okay, off to class you two." One last hug and smile and Amora shoo'ed them off.

"Your mom is really nice."

Aurora nodded, "Thanks she took after me," she said solemnly, clutching her chest. Bella gave a hearty laugh. Bella hoped that they were friends and, if so, that they would stay friends for a long time.

Bella had biology. Well, Aurora had AP Spanish. They parted ways and promised to see each other at lunch. While Bella was bombarded by Erick Yorkie, Aurora bumped into a pixie. Literally. The girl in front of her looked like a pixie that escaped into the real world.

"Oh, I'm sorry! I wasn't paying attention!" She apologized to the other short haired girl. Alice blinked. 'Holy shit this is her,' was all the girl could think. She had an earnest expression. She blinked again.

"You're okay. It was just a bump."

"Okay, again though, I'm super sorry. I should've been paying attention to where I was walking."

Alice smiled and waved a dismissive hand. "It's fine. I'm assuming you're new, I haven't seen you before."

Aurora nodded, "Oh yes, that's why I bumped into you. I was looking for AP Spanish."

"Oh, I know where that is, don't worry, I'll take you." Alice grabbed Aurora's hand. She was cold to the touch. Aurora almost recoiled from the holding but was pulled away by Alice. She led her 3 doors down. "Tada! Here you go."

"Oh, thank you so much ! I really appreciate it. I'm Aurora, by the way.

"Aurora." Alice whispered the name. "That is a beautiful name."

Aurora blushed and thanked her. "My name is Alice."

"I've always liked that movie." Alice smiled at her.

"While I always liked Sleeping Beauty. " The bell ringed.

"Well, Aurora, I will see you later. If you need help again, don't hesitate to ask!" Alice winked and waved.

The class filled up, while Aurora waited to the side. She could literally die at this moment. Introducing herself was going to give her a heart attack.

"Alright, class. Listen up. Tenemos una nueva estudiante aquí, llamada aurora. Por favor presentate."

Aurora felt that she looked like a strawberry, "Hola, mi nombre es Aurora. Me mudé aquí desde Los Ángeles ayer. Encantado de conocerlos a todos."

The teacher smiled, someone else who spoke Spanish well. "Hmm. Tome asiento junto al señor Hale. Hale levanta la mano por favor."

'Hale?' She searched and finally found the honey blonde combo. There he was in his black turtle neck and leather jacket. He looked the same yet entirely different. He raised his hand, and Aurora nodded to the teacher.

She sat next to Jasper. He didn't spare her a glance. 'This is him, right? What the fuck are the chances of another Jasper Hale with blonde hair and golden eyes!?'

(Loose translation: This is the new student aurora. Please introduce yourself.

Hello my name is Aurora. I moved here from Los Angeles yesterday. Nice to meet you all.

Take a seat by Mister Hale. Hale please raise your hand.)

Jasper could feel her hurt and confusion. He needed more time. A little more time to gain control.

Aurora sighed, 'Of fucking course. He was just being nice. Who would want me.'

The self-doubt and insecurity hit Jasper like a train.

She made sure to lean the to right as much as possible. Okay, fine. Jasper was going to pretend not to know her. That is fine. She understood. She sighed. The teacher rambled on and on about the AP test, before classed ended, he told Aurora to stay behind. He wanted her to complete a project and some work sheets by the end of the month. It was doable.

They had AP history together, too. And honors Chemistry. And calculus. And AP English. Fucking christ Jasper couldn't get away from her. Finally, finally she had AP Art while he had a free period, expect she had art with Alice

Jasper wanted to leave. He really did. He didn't want to hurt her, and the best choice was to walk away now. But he couldn't, physically couldn't. He stayed behind by the exit right before her class ended. Leaning against the wall, eyes close. 'Control. Control. Control.'

He could do this, he hoped. He heard Aurora thank the teacher and started to walk out with Alice. She walked into him while putting the materials inside he backpack.

"What the fuck did I walk into a concrete wall?" She muttered to herself. She look up, a hand holding her forehead, and eye contact was made. Alice chuckled but tried to kep quiet.

"Hey there, little princess." Aurora narrowed her eyes. She huffed, stepped to the side, and continued to walk. Alice eyebrows were raised in shock but continued after Aurora. She gave a shrug to Jasper.

Jasper understood, he ignored her, which was quite fucked up in his opinion. 'Okay all I need to do is apologize, and say it because... because.... I didn't want to distract her? Thats horrendous but its all I got.' He sighed and followed the pair.

"So, how do you know Jasper?"

Aurora glanced behind them, "I don't really. Just meet him once."

While it stung a bit for Jasper, it was the truth.

"How about you? You seemed to know him?" Aurora wasn't expecting her answer.

"Oh, he's my adopted brother." Aurora looked at her wide-eyed.

"Seriously? Like you're not fucking around?"

Alice gave a small giggle, "Yes, seriously."

'Oh,' was uttered by Aurora. At her locker, she finished putting the papers in her bag, 'Christ, this shit is full,' as she was about to put the backpack on, an arm reached around back. Jasper put her back pack on, his at his house because of his free period.

Aurora narrowed her eyes. Now, he wanted to start acting like Prince Charming.

Aurora halted, "Um, excuse me."

"Yes, little miss?" Oh, that accent made her swoon, 'No, don't fall for it ! He was a jerk!'

"My backpack, please." She gave out an expectant hand.

Alice slowly backed away toward the end of the corridor.

"Come on, Ms. Princess, I'm truly sorry. I was just shocked that we had that many classes, and at first, I didn't want to distract you, but then it just felt odd to try and beg for forgiveness in class."

Aurora narrowed her eyes, "While, come one then, beg." She crossed her arms over her chest

Jasper was in slight shock. He didn't expect to actually beg just a simple sorry. "Okay, you're right."

He started to get on his knees. Aurora was flushed. She just thought he was going to say sorry again!

"Miss Aurora, I am truly sorry -" "Okay, okay, please get up, you're forgiven. Just stand up."

Aurora held out her hand, which Jasper gadly took. Just as he was dusting off his knees, Aurora's name was called. The first was her mother, and the second was Bella.

They both went to her and Jasper, with Alice standing still to the side, watching how this all played out. Bella was behind Amora.

"Cariño! ¿Cómo era la escuela? ¿y quien es este?" Amora was under the impression only her and her daughter knew spanish, but Jasper knew, and so did Alice a bit.

"Hi mamá, la escuela estuvo bien, solo había muchas cosas para ponerme al día y este Jasper Hale. Lo tengo en la mayoría de mis clases."

Jasper put his hand out to shake, "Hola señora, soy Jasper Hale. Encantado de conocerlo. Iba a ofrecerle ayuda a la señorita Aurora aquí para las clases que tenemos juntas."

(Loose translation: Hi mom, school was fine, just a lot of things to catch up on and this Jasper Hale. I have him in most of my classes.

Hello ma'am, I'm Jasper Hale. Nice to meet you. I was going to offer to help Miss Aurora here for the classes we have together.)

Amora was impressed. For looking like one of the whitest boys ever, his Spanish was good. She took his hand and shook it. "Nice to meet you." She went towards Aurora and gave her a hug and kiss on the head.

"Okay cariño I'll see you later at home. Be good, and don't forget to help Abuela with dinner, I should be home before then, but just in case."

Aurora hugged her mom back," Okay bye mama, see you at home. Love you!" She waved as her mom started to walk away.

"Love you too!"

Bella was just a little jealous, Aurora’s mom was like the perfect mom, and she knew her mom tried, but she also knew that it was just the bare minimum.

"You ready to go?" Bella spoke into the silence.

"Um," she did a quick glance to Jasper before nodding, "Yeah, let's go."

"We'll walk you to the car." Alice smiled and clapped her hands, no room for discussion. Bella was shocked it clicked in her that the "Adonis" was Jasper Hale, and she even knew Alice Cullen, Edward's sister!

The two human girls nodded. They trailed behind the siblings, Bella shot Aurora a look and pointed towards them with her head.

Aurora gave her a wide-eyed look and shrugged.

The siblings shared a look, Jasper quickly shot a galnce towards them, which Alice only gave a sly smile.

Once they were outside, Edward saw them. He internally groaned, 'This wasn't how it was supposed to go.' He got in the car and started it, annoyed at Jasper and Alice.

"Okay, it was wonderful to meet you too, but our brother is waiting for us!" Alice waved at them and started towards Edward.

Jasper nodded hesitantly. He took the backpack off and leaned close to Aurora, "Sorry Princess, duty is calling me, and he looks mad as hell." He grinned when Aurora blushed at their proximity.

"See you tomorrow?" Aurora asked.

"Most likely." He winked and waved bye to both girls. They waved back. Bella pulled Aurora to the car.

"How? When? And most importantly, how again!"

Alice and Jasper shared a look at Bella's question. They quietly laughed together.

Aurora shrugged again. "Like I told you I have no idea, maybe it's like you said yesterday: I just have serious game." The two girls laughed, as did the two vampires at Aurora's statement.

"But seriously, it was random, by chance."

"More like fate?" Tone questioning. They reached Bella's truck.

Aurora shrugged and got in, "If you want to call it that."

They pulled up in the middle of their houses. "Um, do you wanna come over and do homework? I already have a shit ton."

"All those AP classes."

Aurora nodded solemnly. Bella chuckeld and agreed to go over. "Let me just tell my Dad."

"Okay, I'll wait at the door." The two separated, and Aurora waited at the door. Bella soon came over, and the duo took off their shoes and entered.

Aurora shouted, "Abuela estoy en casa y traje a Bella, la hija del jefe, a estudiar!"

"Ok, mija! Estare haciendo mi crucigrama!" Jacinda smirked. The girl and her father would be here all the time.

(Loose Translation: Grandma I'm home I brought Bella, the Chief's daughter, to study!

Okay dear Ill be doing my crossword!")

"Alright, well, let's go up?"

Bella nodded and followed Aurora upstairs and to her room, still cozy. Aurora dropped her backpack off by the bed, as did Bella.

She got two of the throw pillows off the window seat and put them on the floor for the both of them. She quickly took out her phone to text her mom.

'I have Bella over to study. Can she stay to dinner?'

'Are you gonna want me to ask for Mr. Charlie to come over, too? °~°' -Aurora

'DON'T MAKE ME GROUND YOU.'

'yes she can and go head and invite him...' -Amora

Aurora smiled and sat on the floor. She motioned Bella to do the same.

"What classes do you have?"

"Um, english, gov, trig, spanish, bio, and gym. What about you?"

"I had AP spanish, AP history, honors chem, calculus, AP english , and AP Art."

"Fuck, thats alot of AP."

"Yes, while after that, I'll only take 2 for senior year and just chill."

"Anyone who is thinking taking 2 AP classes as chill is insane." Aurora giggled while Bella shook her head.

"Okay, let's study? It's 3 and I have to help my grandma with dinner at 5:30. Oh, do you want to come over for dinner? You can invite your dad too."

"Sure! What are you guys making?"

"Chicken soup."

"Oh, that sounds good, honestly perfect for the day."

'Hey, Dad Aurora invited us to dinner again. Can we eat here? They are making chicken soup?'

"Okay, texted him. He'll respond like in an hour."

"Alright, let's start homework, yay!" She said sarcastically. Bella shook her head.

The two brunettes started their homework, Bella doing biology first since it was easiest for her and Aurora doing AP Spanish because that is the one that had the most to-do.

Aurora finished the AP Spanish class and the honors homework with in the 2 hours. Well, Bella finished 3 classes homework. 'Not bad,' they simultaneously thought. They had a maximum of 2 weeks for the catching up assignments, but the sooner they get it done, the sooner they won't have to worry about it. Around 5, they stopped and went down stairs.

Jacinda was in the backyard smoking. Aurora saw the smoke from the little window and rolled her eyes. "Well, my grandma is smoking. Do you wanna sit while I get everything out?"

"Sure. How often do you guys cook together?"

"Oh, um, probably like 5 days out of the week. The other 2 is when either just one of us cook or we get take out."

"Oh, that must be nice." Bella gave a small sad smile.

Aurora nodded, seeing Bella with that expression made her think that her mom and her hardly did stuff like this.

"Wanna help?"

"Are you sure, I haven't really cooked, plus I'm very accident prone."

"You can skin the potatoes. That's probably the most less dangerous thing?"

She held the bowl of potatoes and the potato skinner, Bella smiled and took it. "Yeah, dont jinx it, though."

"You're right." Aurora knocked on the wood, and they laughed.

After about 10 minutes, Jacinda walked back inside and put her slippers on. She heard the chopping of the vegetables. There she saw Aurora cutting the potatoes. Bella was finishing up skinning. The carrots and onions were right next to her next in line, and the chicken was already washed and soaked in lime, knorr, and salt and pepper.

Jacinda heard them speak," So after washing it and seasoning in, you gotta put the water to boil. You can salt that, too. Usually my grandma will do that, the salt in water, let it boil, and once it starts boil throw the chicken in there just to let it cook and then welll pull it out to de-bone the chicken. Always cook chicken with the bone so the nutrients get in the soup."

Bella scribbled that down. 'Have bones in when boiling chicken.' Jacinda chuckled, she patted her clothes down to get rid of the smoke smell a little.

Jacinda entered the room. "Hola mijas, ok bien ya empezaron. Puedes poner el pollo en Bella y dejar que hierva."

Bella looked up at her name being said. She looked at Aurora. "She said hi and that you can put the chicken in the water. Do it slowly, though! So you won't get burned by the water splash."

Bella nodded nervously, "Um, okay. You might want to back up so I don't get it all of you guys."

Aurora smiled, "Don't worry. You got this." She gave her a thumbs up. Bella grimaced.

She poured the chicken slowly using a fork to help. "You did it! See, it wasn't too bad !" Aurora and Jacinda clapped while Bella blushed.

Amora pulled into the gravel driveway just as Charlie was walking down the street. Amora saw him and took a quick look in the mirror: eyebrows...check, mascara...check, lipstick and lip liner...check and semi check, hair down flat...check, and lastly breathe...not bad, check.

She opened the car door and saw Charlie about to stop right in front of her, "Here." He held out his hand. She noticed he was still in uniform. She accepted the offer and slowly got out of the car.

As the chicken boiled, Aurora heard the Jeep pull up she went down the hallway and waved for her grandmother and Bella to follow. The trio sat on the window seal, Aurora on the middle, and the other two to the sides. They all peeked through the closed curtains tiny openings.

There, before them, they saw Charlie helping Amora out of the car. They all shared a look.

Amora could feel eyes burning on to her, but she ignored them. "Thank you, Chief of Police." She gave a wink. Charlie blushed and touched the back of his head with his right hand, the other Amora was still holding on to.

"Um..." Charlie blanked.

"Um...." Amora copied him, hoping he would finish the sentence.

"Um... would you," Charlie tried to control his breath.

"Yes! Pick me up on Thursday at 7." That wasn't what Charlie was going to ask. He was going to ask if she wanted to go inside. But Charlie nodded. He did want to ask her out he just didn't have the balls quite yet.

"Okay. Great." He blushed, and she smiled.

She grabbed his hand and motioned towards the door. Together, they walked up the steps, Aurora unlocked the door, but Charlie opened it for her.

Before going inside, Amora put her hand to block it from opening too much.

"Let's not tell the kids just yet, you know, since it's the first date and all. If you can make it to the 5th, then we'll tell them."

"Yeah, okay. And don't worry, I'll make it to the 5th date." This Charlie was the bold and winked at her. She reddend and nodded.

"Good. I look forward to it." She took off her shoes, as did Charlie.

"Aurora! Abuela! And Bella! I'm home! Charlie got here at the same time I did!"

"We're in the kitchen! Finishing up cutting the veggies."

The duo headed towards the kitchen and saw Aurora cutting the celery, Bella cutting the onions, and Jacinda shredding the chicken.

"OH hola mija, veo que trajiste a tu novio a casa." If looks could kill. Aurora snickered, and Bella and Charlie looked confused. Bella looked towards Aurora to translate, and she gave her a wave and mouth 'later.' Bella nodded, assuming, correctly that is, Jacinda was teasing Miss Flores.

"Hola mama, míralo antes de que te quite esos cigarrillos que tanto te gustan." Jacinda squinted her eyes but waved her off.

She turned to Charlie, "Food is almost done. Go sit with Amora in the other room." Charlie looked perplexed. He knew she understood English, just thought she wouldn't or maybe couldn't speak it.

"Okay, ma'am." Not wanting to get on Jacinda's bad side already, he motioned to the dining, with a hopeful look. Amora glared at her mother and nodded. The two adults left the room.

"So what did she say?" Bella whispered.

Jacinda leaned in close to the girls, "I said, so you brought your boyfriend home." Bella's mouth fell open, and she laughed, as did Aurora.

"And then, she tried to threaten my cigarettes. Can you believe her? One of the few old lady's pleasures, mean." Bella snickered and nodded. Aurora shook her head in disbelief, her Abuela's cigarette? Come on, did her mother have a death wish?

Charlie heard Bella's laugh and smiled. He hasn't heard her laugh like that at all since she's been her. Of course, it's only been about 3 days, but still, it was nice to hear her enjoying herself.

The night was filled with laughter from the Flores house as the food was served, prayer said - for Abuela's sake - and the food being eaten. If the date went well and the others continued, Bella and Charlie could get used to this.

☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆•☆

SHHEEE'S BAAACK

Yall my bad 🤭 I've had this story like 70% done just never had time to proofread, edit, and all that fine stuff, my bad. I apologize. But I'm back I'm still gonna be writing this and the second movie I already have the plot for my girls tho so I gots to see it thru my boy. Anyway hope you guys enjoy! There will be more frequent updates too so do not worry ♡

[knarme-art]

Ohhh noo, a butch recom hottie dropped... Whatever shall I do.. u_u

[caktoz]

Drawing summer art in April so i can draw halloween stuff in June

[jmarcenciell]

Vicky 💖

[shaibonbon]

Aw bon made a new friend!

[dutiful-wildcraft]

Secondhand News Pt. 2

John Price/ plus size F!OC

John Price chases after his sergeants sister, a soft and sweet wildlife rehabilitator in the rural south.

Tags: domestic fluff, critters, poor flirting, mentions of disordered eating and food insecurity. Some background romance between Ghost and another oc.

Ruby's alarm clock startles her into the waking world at a crisp 5 am. Immediately followed by a deep hollow dread somewhere in her chest.

She'd scrounged up enough sick time to request the full week off, get Darren and the others  settled in, plus have a few days prior to clean the place top to bottom. Get her shit together. 

She'd buzzed around the house on autopilot, cleaning and ordering groceries. Figuring out good sized meals to keep them all fed. For once she looked like the pinnacle of efficiency. Having scrubbed away the evidence of weeks old dishes, and mold staining her old plastic shower curtain. She’d even had time to let the place air out so it wasn't obvious she'd soaked everything down with bleach and lemon disinfectant. Even lit a candle for a little extra pizazz. 

She loved her brother, wanted him home, but it'd been some time since Ruby had an actual person in her house. A person who wasn't going to just stand on her front porch and chat; but stay the night, see her all day. 

She was busy, what could she say? She managed the animals in her care all day, on top of working full time for the emergency veterinary clinic overnight. She didn't have time to make friends, let alone take care of her home, herself. Socializing regularly was on the bottom of her to-do list. 

Some days she didn’t even have the strength to brush her teeth, shower, eat something other than microwave pizza.

She loved the animals, regardless of the toll, but it was still work. She barely made a dime doing it, and some months even lost money.

Hence why she worked the second job, not that she necessarily had to do that either.

Darren would gut her if he found out the money he sent her did her no good. Not that it wasn't enough, she simply didn't use it. She'd set up a savings for him a while back, put every dime he gave her in there for when he retired. There was no sense in using his money to pay for bills in a house he hardly lived in. Nor would she dare put his money toward the animals, those were her responsibility. He’d refuse if she asked him to stop, so she put it towards a good cause. Her brother broke his back to care for her when they were kids, he deserved to rest when the time was right, and a little cushion for when he came home for good was the least she could do. 

He was certainly going to be upset when she broke the news about returning to the clinic next week, but she’d make the most of their free time this week, and spend what time she had during the day with him and the other’s during the rest of their stay. 

Price and Ghost had admittedly been another worry of hers. 

Not only was her brother coming back home, but bringing a couple of near strangers with him too. She’d met them before, briefly at the same awards ceremony, but they were still unfamiliar enough. She would need to play host, another layer to add to the show she was already putting on for her brother. 

Thankfully the men were not the stereotypical loud and rambunctious types she’d been afraid of. The last few days had been calm, a bit noisier than usual, but nothing to pitch fits about. The two English soldiers made her and Darren look like heathens by comparison. 

Simon didn't have much to say, mostly chiming in on Darren or Price on occasion, or asking her where things went. 

And Price? 

Her cheeks heated at the thought of  the broad captain, like a dumb teenager. She’d met dear Price at the awards ceremony as well. The big handsome man had gravitated toward her instantly, and rarely left her side the whole night.  He’d been charming, funny; whispering gossip to her about a few of the others in dress uniform, the bristles of his facial hair tickling the shell of her ear. She’d done her best not to make an ass of herself, but she’d certainly played too. Clinging to his offered arm like she belonged there. Keen to make up stories about the strangers neither one of them knew, preening when he’d bent down to listen. She’d been proud of the amount of chuckles she’d gotten from the man. 

That evening had been the most fun she’d had in some time. She’d felt like a prize on the captain’s arm, something almost precious as he guided her around, warm palm on the small of her back. She’d been more than disappointed when they parted ways without exchanging contact. Later she’d felt even more disappointed, silly really. Realizing the soldier was probably just being pleasant, entertaining his sergeant's pudgy little sister like a gentleman.

She’d brushed it off then, reminding herself that she’d more than likely never see the him again, maybe in passing at another ceremony if she were unlucky. 

But now he was in her house.

And still just as gorgeous. He still sported the chops that surprisingly suited him, a few gray hairs peppering through the brown. With tender blue eyes and shoulders wide enough to fill a door frame. The rumbling timber of his voice had her eyes flicking to him every time he spoke, made her stomach flip when he spoke to her specifically. Using the same warm tone she’d quickly grown so fond of those years ago. 

She might as well be writing in a pink fluffy diary, glittery purple gel pen in hand with the way her brain gushed over the man’s attention. For christ’s sake she was a grown ass woman. 

Dear diary, today Captain Price looked at me. <3

Ruby sighs, flopping over fitfully in her sheets, scrubbing her hands over her face. 

C’mon Martin, get yourself together. 

He is just a man in her house. A pretty man. Quit it. Her brother's friend, captain, specifically. She would just need to hang in there for a little while, she could hold it together for a little while right?

With a few yawns and tired groans she’s padding downstairs wrapped in her favorite blanket, a god awful thing with howling wolves printed on cheap fleece. A gas station gift from Darren that they’d both had a good laugh at. She’s greeted by Blue, dutifully waiting for her at the bottom of the stairs, the gray pitbull wagging its rear end slowly as she descends, mindful of his own rambunctiousness in the wee hours of the morning. She’s cooing at him when she catches something in the corner of her eye, blood turning to ice as she freezes in place. Heart hammering in her chest as she tries to decipher the very large masked figure sitting on her couch. 

Her brain scrambles with potential ways to fight. But something occurs to her.

Blue isn’t alarmed. And Blue barks about everything. He’s been her security guard for years, and a damn good litmus test for danger. 

As if on cue the figure turns, dark brown eyes reflecting the pale light of her TV as he looks back at her. Finally, her brain catches up. 

Ghost. 

Darren had explained the man’s proclivity towards the garment. When she’d first met the illusive lieutenant he’d worn a simple balaclava tucked up around his dress uniform, and over the past few days he’d worn an inconspicuous black medical mask. She hadn’t been prepared for the full thing, especially not this early in the morning. She stands there like a deer in headlights, greeting him with a slow wave. He doesn't speak, simply jerks his chin up in return before turning away from her once more. 

She stands there a moment more, brain still struggling.  She should have known better really, sharing a house with 3 soldiers. Honestly, she should be surprised that not all of them were awake. 

The morning was meant to be her sanctuary, her time to sit in the quiet and transition into the waking world. Time for her to simply exist, prepare her armor for the onslaught of noise and staring eyes. 

She pads away quickly, letting Blue outside to potty before hiding away in the kitchen. Mechanically, she prepares a pot of coffee, plopping down in a seat away from the view of Ghost, she doesn't have the capacity to have eyes on her just yet. She just needs to sit, yawn into space, let time slip by as she stares into laminate flooring. 

She waits long after the coffee is done before dumping it into a mug, contemplating for another moment before leaving an extra mug on the counter for the large man in her living room. She lets Blue back in, playing their morning game of chase as he scampers around, leaving dewey paw prints and wet grass across her floor. She finally catches him in a fit of giggles, tucking him between her calves to dry him off as he tries to lick her face. 

Only the commotion must have startled Simon,  because he nearly scares the shit out of her when she stands again, the behemoth standing silently in her kitchen doorway, amusement crinkling the corners of his eyes. He still doesn't speak, only raises a brow at her. 

Need help? 

She brushes it off, apologizes for the wet floor as she tosses the towel underfoot to get the rest of the mess. 

“Coffee on the counter, left you a mug out,” she gestures to the counter. “creamer’s in the fridge, sugar in the cabinet.” 

She doesn’t wait for a reply, simply smiles awkwardly and slips around him. Blues nails clicking against the hardwood behind her. 

-

After changing she trots back downstairs. Still whirling a bit from her morning disruption, but makes a mental note of the mug in the sink, and the now missing Simon. She smiles a little, collecting her earbuds and stepping her way out into the humid summer morning. 

She takes the same path everyday. Starting with the makeshift shed for the smaller rescues, followed by the small pasture, barn, and coops. Patrolling the path around the small acreage of her home, ensuring nothing was out of place.

She's thankful the spring had passed and most of the babies in her care were old enough to fend for themselves throughout the night. She passes through the cages, greeting everyone in a soft voice, peeking into each to make sure everyone made it another day. 

Armadillo with a bite wound. Good.

Baby squirrels, still wobbly, but hydrated. 

Barred owl with injured wing, still mad.

She moves on, feeding her own personal animals, moving between gates and tossing feed down for the chickens, dumping out the trough sized bins of water for the goats. Scrubbing and refilling them to keep the mosquitos from settling. Blue trots along behind her, giving what animals that will tolerate him a sniff before moving on to the next.

Her ducks love him, honking pleasantly as she opens their pen. She laughs as Blue goes still as stone, letting the ducks inspect him before he can’t take it anymore and starts bouncing, scattering ducks hither and yon. It takes her another minute to settle everyone down, gather them up for their morning walk down to the pond. 

The Goofy Parade, she calls it. Ruby leads the show with two of the more stubborn ducks tucked under her arms, Blue coming up second, with a handful of other ducks frantically trying to keep up, nothing but quacks and webbed feet thumping against the grass as they all descend the small hill together.

She tosses the ducks in the pond with little preamble, giggling to herself at their indignant quacking before they happily paddle off. Blue would chase after them if the water was not his mortal enemy. And while that made bath times a nightmare she was thankful she only had to toss ducks in, and not fish Blue out.

She’s halfway back up the hill, already panting and sweaty as she spots a little blur of white and black, familiar tiny bleating trilling though the air. 

She’s made a terrible mistake, one that she blames on Simon’s little scare as she continues her ascent, coming face to face with a little goat buckling that should certainly not be out. As a matter of fact several of the goats are out, grazing easily off in the yard. One stands proudly on Blue’s dog house, staring at her with blank eyes as it chews a heap of grass lazily. 

Fuck.

She takes stock, glaring at the gate she'd left open, closing it again to prevent any more escapees before getting a plan together. The older ones go easy, stubborn to move but easy to catch, standing dumbly as she pushes them along. The kids are a different story, one that involves running in circles like a fool and desperately trying to hold on to a baby that kicks and flails and bleats like you're killing it. Not to mention a certain gray pitbull thinks her chasing is a game, and is hell bent on getting under her feet at every turn. 

She’s soaked in sweat by the time she collects most of them, hair sticking to the back of her neck as she huffs under a shade tree. The one clever buckling that greeted her earlier still remains, proudly toddling in the grass a few feet away.

Ruby had taken to sitting at this point, ass in the dirt as she desperately tries to coax the little shit to come closer with a large sprig of hay when she hears the screen door open.  She nearly melts from the heat and embarrassment as John Price steps out, dressed in well worn jeans that hug his thighs just right. She sucks her teeth as he looks between her and the goat with a knowing amusement crinkling his pretty blue eyes.

Kill me now.

“Looks like you’ve got your hands full” he greets with mock casualty, nodding toward the baby goat off in the yard as it jumps and kicks, quite literally parkouring off of Blue and bleating in its little revelry. 

Mocking her. 

She glares sourly at the little beast as John takes a well timed sip of his coffee, trying not to laugh as her pout intensifies. She directs her ire at him instead. 

“How much of that did you see?” 

“Just a bit.” he smiles wryly, “ you had most of them rounded up before I spotted ya.” He bends down, handing her his mug.  “Keep an eye on this will ya? I’ll fetch him for you.”

She gives him an incredulous look but takes the mug. Go for it Bud.

He rolls his shoulders, stalking towards the babe with confidence, slowing his steps as he approaches. Ruby watches the shift from civilian Price to Captain Price: swift and silent on his feet. He hunkers a bit, walking heel to toe as he glides across the grass, easily creeping up with the efficiency of a predator as he lunges for the critter. 

A miss, but he was close. Stumbling slightly and correcting gracefully. Looking back to her with surprised look, “Bloody fast isn't he?” Without delay he's back at it, stalking the kid who's now watching him with big blank eyes. 

“You're gonna bust your ass” she calls with a giggle, earning her a playful smile and finger held up in her direction. Just give me a moment young lady.

 He snags the little critter on the second try, deft hands securing it against his chest as it cries. 

She stares at him, mouth open in confused shock as he walks past her, plopping the buckling down over the fence before returning, silently plucking his mug from her hands and taking another sip. 

There is a long pause between them. Where Price pointedly looks out into the yard and not the dejected woman sitting in the grass beside him, hiding his grin behind his mug as she glares mildly into the side of his face.

“Do you need help with anything else?” he dares, earning him a swift pinch to the calf as soon as the words leave his mouth. But they both end up laughing, Ruby shaking her head in disbelief as she tries to pick herself up, Price meeting her with an offered hand to ease her out of the grass. 

God she wishes she wasn’t sweating like whore in church. 

He does ask again though, genuine in his offer to help, and while she isn’t particularly keen to make the man work, she does want to show him the animals. So she’ll  humor him today, show him around. Everybody loves animals, and who is she to deny him that?

It’s not soon after that she’s leading him through the large building she’d had dedicated as a hospital of sorts for her foster animals. 

She goes through each cage, quietly explaining each animal's situation, watching his face for any signs of boredom only to be met with rapt attention. The larger man nodding along and asking questions regarding their care and outlooks. It made her little heart happy to explain, and she had maybe lost herself a time or two. Chattering away about foods and behaviors, ways to heal, before catching herself and wrapping it up quickly. 

“You wanna help me feed ‘em?” she asks tentatively, nodding toward the cage of clumsy twin squirrels. 

“Absolutely.” he replies, Price’s sweet cheeks rounding as he smiles down at her. She turns quickly in an effort to hide her own goofy blush.  Her brain oscillating between He’s so cute and That’s a grown ass man.  

She leads him toward the counter, getting the twin’s meal prepared before fishing out one of the pups, carefully unswaddling it and handing it to Price. The man looks positively chuffed, holding the baby in his large palm, twisting to get a better look at it as it digs little nails into his fingers, snuffling and wiggling frantically to get at its lunch. 

Ruby pulls out the other twin, and shows Price how to cradle the pup between her fingers, prop it upright, laughing as the babe scrabbles greedily, claws slipping and sliding to get purchase on the syringe as she brings it to its mouth. 

“They’re big enough now that they nurse well, but you got to keep them upright and push slow or they’ll choke and blow it out their nose” she explains, gingerly pushing down on the syringe. She coos at the little thing and gives it a sweet scrub along its spine once it’s finished.

She sits next to Price next, tensing her thighs as best as she could to keep from accidentally touching the man. She pushes the new syringe into his hand and walks him through the same procedure. He does perfectly of course, brows pinched, staring at the little thing with the intensity of a man trying to defuse a bomb. 

Sweet fella, she coos internally, he's trying, and Ru can't help but feel her heart pitter patter at the care he puts into it. A soft smile creeps]ing onto her face as he relaxes a bit, chin tucked to his chest as he cradles the baby closer, self assurance softening his shoulders as he pets a finger along its chest.

She is content to just sit there with him in the quiet, relax enough for her own soft thigh to fully settle against his. He lifts his head at the touch, smiling at her so warm, shy even.

And all her thoughts pop right out of her head, flutter around her noggin like big pink cartoon hearts.

She just barely fights off the urge to giggle and tuck her hair behind her ear, trying valiantly to shake the glassy look off of her face. Struck dumb by a pretty man with a baby animal. 

Captain. Captain. You're brothers captain. Don't flirt, don't flirt-

“I'm gonna make you a little squirrel feedin’ medal to put on those dress blues of yours” she teases. 

Price grins at her, petting the little squirrel with a gentle finger beneath its chin. “Can you fashion it to look like a big acorn for me?” 

“Oh, expect nothing less. How else will your big wigs know your true talents? I'll have it at your door by the end of the week” she swears, hand over her heart. 

The fond look he gives her is damn near mesmerizing.

“I'll be waiting”

°°°°

After finishing up with the remaining rescues the pair emerge, Ruby leading him down the well worn path to the barn where a cacophony of disgruntled clucking can be heard.

Blue is stationed just outside the door, looking to Ru nervously as they approach. He stands quickly waggling toward with a nervous gait and looking back to the barn door pointedly as the chaos continues. As if to say: Look momma, not me this time.

Upon further inspection is Darren, kneeling and huffing exasperatedly to the fowl around him, baby blue egg apron tied around his waist. It's dirty, covered in hay and errant feather fluff, happy little chickens printed all over the stiff fabric. It's tacky and comically out of place on the big boy with skull pajama pants underneath. 

“You ain't got no babies in there anyway, plus you eat scrambled eggs! And you're mad at me! For what!?” he challenges, gingerly pushing another hen out of the way to pluck eggs out from underneath her. 

Not far from Darren is Ghost, ass on a hay bale and cradling a rather docile tawny hen in his arms, she's snug as a bug, eyes closed as the giant strokes his fingers over her feathers. The unlikely pair undisturbed by the other hens caterwauling. Ruby huffs.

“Quit workin’ Darri, this is your time off, I would've got it”

“You just wanna hog up all the time with the animals. I'm onto you Rubella” he points sternly, a hen flying onto his bent form as he attempts yet again to root through the nest boxes. 

“You eat em’?” Ghost grunts, looking up, startling both Darren and Ruby at the sudden question. He blinks between them in the silence, and Ruby hears a long suffering huff from Price over her shoulder. 

“No.” the siblings hiss in unison, and Ghost only shrugs, continuing to cradle the bird in his arms.

“Not turning you into pies are they then? Best keep makin them eggs, yeah.” he murmurs to the bird, setting her down gently in the hay. 

“Darri doesn't have the heart to slaughter them-”

“Like you do” he bitches.

“-so we just keep the eggs, eat em’, trade em’, give em’ away,” she explains, moving over to help her brother.

In no time, all 4 of them are shuffling back inside, eggs in hands as they drop them off at the sink for washing. The rest of the afternoon passes easily. The little group resting in the safety of air conditioning in the worst of the afternoon heat. 

Darren finds this the best time to drag out the baby pictures, hauling a large tote out from the spare closet and plopping down next to Ghost.

Ruby watches from the kitchen counter as he digs, prepping up for dinner as he naturally searches for the most embarrassing photos he can find.

He yanks one out and immediately starts in. “Awwww look at her.” Darren coos, holding the picture up to Ghost and Price.

Ruby couldn't be any more than 7 or 8, grinning proudly at the camera with tear stained cheeks. She's clad in a gaudy purple sequined swimsuit, posed next to an even bigger catfish. An older man holding it by the mouth just above her, looking just as proud. 

“Dad taught Ru about noodling that day,” Darri laughs “She was so excited until one got ahold of her, pops didn't tell her they had teeth. She cried and cried, but paraded around like a big badass after Dad helped her drag it out.”

Ru sniffs, “A big ole snappin turtle could've taken my arm in that mud hole and he didn't even care.”

“Oh shut your face, you came outta there fine. And you still poke at animals you shouldn't be pokin’ at.”

Price takes the picture between his fingers, smiling down at the ginger’s proud buck toothed grin. She slinks around him, rolling her eyes at the amused look on his face and starts rooting through the tote to find her own ammunition. 

“Here it is. Edge lord~” she sing-songs, passing the picture over to Ghost. 

It’s a photo of pre-teen Darren, all soft and doughy. Still round-faced, trying to look hardcore in a nu-metal t-shirt, too long basketball shorts and a clunky cd player attached to his hip.  Devil horns thrown up to the camera with his fist. 

“Look at tha’” Ghost coos, reaching over to pinch Darren’s cheek. Darren only laughs, of course he would, the good natured shit. “That's what peak performance looks like.” he snickers, pressing a smooch to Ghost's wrist instead, grinning at him like a big cheeseball. 

“If ya think that's bad, check this one out.” Darren dives back in, laser focused on fishing out another particular memory. Ghost watches him fondly, dark eyes crinkled in the corners revealing a mask-hidden smile. It's a tenderness that almost feels too intimate to witness between the pair, and Ruby feels both longing and relief as she turns back toward the counter. 

Ghost loves him, odd as he is. 

It's written plain as day on his face, mask or no. And if the other's love him half as much as she thinks Ghost does,  then her big brother will have enough to fill his cup and then some. 

To her it would never be enough, but she could rest easier knowing someone is making him smile and laugh. Feel safe enough to dance and play and be the biggest dork.  Be the kid he didn't get the chance to be. 

Darren finally procures his prize, his highschool prom photo, and whips the picture in front of him like a scholar. Adjusting imaginary glasses for added effect. “You see here Simon, the dollar store eyeliner, check, black nail polish, sharpie, check, stretched ears, check. Peak. Performance.”

“You lads would've gotten along in school” Price chuckles, leaning over them to inspect for himself. And it doesnt come as a surprise that the goth phase was something that Ghost had never really grown out of. Dorks, the both of them. 

Ruby takes this as an opportunity to slip back into cutting vegetables on autopilot, let the boys entertain themselves for a bit, ignore the ache in her chest at the softness of it all. 

She's only a few peeled potatoes in when Price leans in beside her, voice just shy of a whisper. Did he see the distant look in her eye? 

“Need a hand?”

She flips the switch back to “entertainer.”

“I think I've got it, thank you though.” She follows the script. Next he should say Are you sure? And next she would say Of course! Then Price would head back over to the table. 

Only Price doesn't say that, and he doesn't leave. 

‘D'ya mind keeping me company then? Lovebirds are going to make me sick if I stay too close.” he grumbles, but it’s half hearted.  Price must feel the same relief she feels underneath it all, that all his boys care for each other. The thought that he might feel the same ache in his chest occurs to her too.

Her locked and loaded reply tumbles stupidly out of her brain, and she tries and fails to pluck out another phrase as he watches her with honey flecked pools of blue. Instead she concedes, shimmying over slightly to make room for the broad captain. 

She can’t shake away the look in Ghost’s eyes as she and Price talk. It’s nothing of importance, just chatter, generic sentences that Ruby knows all the right words too and the appropriate times to give a sensible chuckle.  His voice is honey smooth, easy, slowly distracts her brain from its spiraling and pulls it towards him. She’s only half listening to his words, instead basking in the pleasurable purr of his accent, the clipped consonants and low gravel of his tone. Feels just a little bad for grasping the tiny thread, using him as a lighthouse in a sea of melancholy waves.  She’s always been more of a listener anyway. 

She hadn't noticed that he'd smoothly started peeling potatoes with her, having somehow snuck a knife from right under her nose.

“Hey!” she barks upon realization, giving him a sour look. He only raises a brow in challenge, nudges her arm playfully.

“More hands is less work.” he recites, mimicking her from days prior. She wrinkles her nose at him, displeased to have her own words used against her. 

“Yeah but-” he turns to her fully, eyeing her with a knowing twinkle in his eye, as if whatever argument she is about to make was going to mean jack shit. She powers on,”-this is yall’s vacation and I’m not about to sit here and make you work.” 

Price huffs through his nose. “I’m not treating your home like a vacation get away, or you like a maid, you need something you just say the words, understood?”

She blinks at the sudden sharpness of his words. They aren't harsh, like she’s in trouble, but there is finality, one she doesn't argue with. 

At least not today. 

“Sir, yes sir” she sasses lazily, quickly scuttling away to avoid any ire, yet when she steals a glance over her shoulder it isn’t annoyance written on the captains face, but something hungry and patient wading in the pools of his eyes, arms crossed as he leans his hip against the counter.

It’s intense, pinning her where she stands.

Too much, too much.

She quickly whips back around. Fussing with the skillet on the stove top and decidedly ignoring the heated stare at the back of her head. A small jolt to her heart that has her giddy and tapping her foot. 

And of course she can't help but steal a few more little glances at him while dinner finishes up. Price moving around her to dig out silverware and plates wordlessly to help. Some kind of minuscule smirk on his face, meeting her gaze at every turn. John Price appears to be a difficult man to get away from. 

Soon they're all seated, chowing down on one of Darren favorites, sans some of cooked vegetables the recipe called for, the texture unfavorable to both of the Martin's who preferred it a little more simple. 

All 3 soldiers eat plates practically rolling over with meat and potatoes,  and Ruby is thankful she went apeshit with the grocery haul. Something like pride warms her chest as the table goes quiet.  Either the food is really good or really bad, and judging by the way all three men are too busy stuffing their maws Ruby assumes it’s the latter. 

She watches with amusement as Ghost yanks over the pitcher of sweet tea, pouring himself another large glass before going to town once again. She’d thought the 2 englishmen wouldn't touch the blasphemous tea with a 10 ft pole, yet the biggest boy seems to have a sweet tooth that rivals even Darren. He’d nearly scared the piss out of her (again) earlier that afternoon, hovering deathly quiet just behind her back, watching how she added the sugar and more water to top off the pitcher. He’d been nursing on a glass ever since. 

She'd scooped herself a much smaller portion by comparison, ate slow, not daring to go for seconds. All purposeful.  She wasn't about to be the fatass surrounded by beefcakes while she shovels food down her gob. Now way, no how. It didn't matter if this was the first real meal she's cooked for herself in weeks or not. 

She takes her opportunity to sneak her plate into the sink as the boys begin to chat, and Darri busts her out immediately.

“Oh huh-uh, I know you ain't done eating.” he barks. 

“What does it look like?”

Darri continues giving her the stink eye. Neither one of them are shy about food. They've gone without it plenty.  Cereal dinners and microwave soup. She can't bullshit him.

She changes tactics.

“I'm makin’ sure you boys have plenty before I help myself, I know this has gotta be better than the military gruel. ‘Sides I can take this for work.”

“Work?”

Ruby turns fully to hide her guilt. She was going to have to tell him eventually. Might as well rip the bandaid off. 

“Yeah, the good thing is that I'll still be here during the day. They just need help covering 2nd shift since one of the girls went out for maternity leave.” she lies smoothly, “she wasn’t supposed to have him for a few more weeks, but I guess the little fellar was done cookin’ early.” she tries to joke, only Darren continues his sour look, hell even and Price and Ghost seem displeased with the information. 

Darren crosses his arm, shifting from goofy big brother to interrogator. “Second shift is late Mumps.”

“That’s why they call it second and not first.”

His frown deepens, “And who is with you out there?”

“Gayle.” and as Ruby suspected, the name eased the tension in her brother’s shoulders, he huffs, still displeased, but relents just a smidgen, brotherly tone slipping between the crack again.  “Are yall gonna stay out of trouble?”

“Oh no, we’re going to raise hell in there actually, party all night with all the dogs in cones. Might even get some glow sticks.” she snarks playfully, shaking her head at her brother’s question.

She faces a few more questions, surprisingly from all three men who have apparently decided to put in their two cents into her welfare. Like she hasn’t been doing this for the better part of a year unsupervised. (Not that they would ever know that). 

What was the schedule? How long does it take her to get there? Does she have service? Wi-fi? She can already see the silent conversation happening between them in the event that Operation Save Ruby were to occur, and with Darren’s urging all of the men now had her number stored in their phone, as well as the address to the veterinary hospital in case of emergencies.  A plan of action already filed away in each of their heads, like service dogs that can’t stop working. 

Her brother seems a bit more at ease after the conversation, but there is still a watery worry hanging in his big brown eyes as they all disperse from the table, John and Simon leaving the siblings alone. Darren breaks first. 

“I know it seems like a lot. I just worry about you.” he tells her softly. Tender heart beating on his shirt sleeve. 

“I know you do, but I’m telling you, it’s no big deal, I’m just helping out for a few weeks.”

He nods, something flashing across his features before he wraps her up in a big hug, squeezing her hard enough that he trembles with the effort. 

“M’proud of you kid.” 

The words hit her like a freight train, guilt welling up in her chest and pouring into her limbs. Ruby fights the stupid tears welling up in her eyes as he hugs her close. If only he knew the half of it, how their home looked like hell in a hand-basket just a week ago, how she scraped her hair back into a greasy ponytail for days because she wouldn’t wash it. How taking care of the animals was the only reason she went outside. How she lied to his face. 

“Proud of you too bub, glad your home.” she murmurs into his shoulder, squeezing him back with equal fervor.

Ruby goes to bed that evening, stewing on Price’s words, to ask for what she needs. Then she thinks of the worry in all their eyes, the tired lines from sleeping on cots, or in corners on the field, of raining bullets and chemicals. She thinks about the gray creeping into her brother's soft brown hair, silvery highlights of stress and worry that she can’t take away. 

She thinks if a little white lie would spare her brother just an ounce of more worry, she would do it every time. 

[rin-rin-winter]

I was thinking for the plot, that Mikey and that girl (Rina) started talking to eachother from different side's of the wall, after the accident with Kraang, and they gave eachother a promise to not look at eachother, so none of them knows eachother identity, and so over 2 years they meeting here in abandoned building, talking with eachother:3

[theunluckyvandalist]

el souffle

whats she up to? we may never know