#clearly I needed 10 or 15 to feel better

[oldhagcalibri]

The gods give their strongest soldiers the worst stomach aches

[mejomonster]

Reading a new book on love and feeling gradually more and more hopeless ToT

[silverwhittlingknife]

So you're a go to source for all things Dick&Tim bros and you tend to write primarily from Dick's POV. So, odd question, but if you were to summarize their relationship from his POV in FIVE panels which panels would you pick? Keeping in mind that one specific aspect of their relationship that you love needs to be clearly represented by each panel (loyalty, trust etc). I hope this is a fun challenge and not an annoying question so if you don't want to answer that's cool! Have a wonderful day!

No more talk. The same thoughts run through two minds... (SotB 29) / You're my equal. My closest ally. (RR 1) / I can't stop thinking how much I rely on him. (GoG 3)

25 Feelings Dick Has About Tim

This was such a kind ask & a cool challenge which I totally failed; here are TWENTY-five panels of Dick's POV on Tim sdfdsfds Look, I got carried away! Marcia and Cindy! The boys!!

OKAY SO BEFORE I GET TO THE PANELS A FEW NOTES:

WARNING THAT THERE ARE SOME NEGATIVE EMOTIONS IN HERE because I love conflict but but but you gotta remember those are not the final word!! They are complicated people and sometimes they get mad at each other BUT ultimately their relationship is so hugely important in both their lives & they love each other and rely on each other so much -!!! <3

Also I have CONCLUDING THOUGHTS at the end about what Dick's POV leaves out (mostly: a lot of Dick defending & protecting & supporting Tim, which Dick does instinctively but isn't very self-aware about most of the time)

I have loosely organized my list into 5^5 format (5 categories with 5 examples each!), so if you want to skip to a relevant one, here are the categories!!

Below the cut:

I hate him and find him infuriating (#1-5)

On second thought, he's endearing & fun (#6-10)

Grief is complicated & he's all tangled up in mine (#11-15)

I love him & think highly of him (#16-20)

I rely on him & though it's hard for me, I trust him (#21-25)

I hate him and find him infuriating (#1 - 5)

1) He thinks he’s so smart and can psychoanalyze me and Bruce, but he doesn’t know me at all, he should get lost (New Titans 61)

2) He thinks he’s so smart and can psychoanalyze Bruce but he doesn’t know Bruce at all, he should get lost (Gotham Knights 26)

3) He is so nosy about stuff that is MY business (Robin 0)

4) He sounds like an insincere suck-up half the time... but okay, fine, if you push him he's got a sense of humor about it (New Titans 65)

5) I'm sure he's a better vigilante than me. It's my fault for being a failure, but I resent him anyway. (Nightwing 9 - Dick's having a nightmare)

On second thought, he's kinda endearing (#6-10)

6) He worries too much and gets anxious so easily, but it makes him fun to tease (Robin 67)

7) I'm not that competitive - okay, so maybe I'm a little competitive, I gotta make sure he doesn't get a swelled head (Prodigal)

8) I'm supposed to be his favorite! It is not cool for him to be fanboying over my not-girlfriend's not-boyfriend!! (Birds of Prey 19)

9) We have fun together. I can kick back and relax when it's just the two of us. Plus I get to boss him around a bit. (Prodigal)

10) He’s always trying to reassure me, and I guess it's a little comforting, but also he doesn’t really get it. Or me. He makes excuses that he shouldn't, because he doesn't understand that I suck. (Nightwing 64)

Grief is complicated and he's all tangled up in mine (#11 - 15)

11) He reminds me of everything I try not to think about. Sometimes the memories are so strong it hurts to look at him. (Batman 441)

12) WHY IS HE BEING IMPOSSIBLE ALL OF A SUDDEN??? THIS IS SO FRUSTRATING (Nightwing 139)

13) We're the same. He says all the things I don't let myself think about. It's like arguing with myself. (Nightwing 139)

14) He thinks he gets to tell me what to do but he doesn’t, fuck him (Battle for the Cowl)

15) Life sucks, so what. I sucked it up so he should too (RR 1)

I love him and think highly of him (#16 - 20)

16) He’s the closest thing to a brother I’ll ever have.  If someone hurts him I will hurt them harder. (Nightwing 6)

17) I can't handle the idea of losing him. (Nightwing 97)

17) He’s so good and I’m not. I'm afraid I’m bad for him. (Nightwing 110)

18) He’s better than me, and it’s kind of a relief because I know no matter what he’ll be okay. (Gates of Gotham 3)

19) In my head he’s the responsible one.  (Gotham Knights 10)

I rely on him, and though it's hard for me, I trust him (#20-25)

20) I know I have to trust him but I'm afraid he'll make the wrong choices and get hurt (Nightwing 139)

21) I'm sure I know what he should do because I see myself in him - not that I can take my own advice, but he should (Blackest Night 3)

22) I trust him.  When I’m losing my grip on things, he pulls me back. (Gotham Knights 10)

23) I want him to trust me (Red Robin 12)

24) He can tell when I'm lying. Sometimes he sees my weaknesses better than I wish he did. (Detective Comics 874)

25) He’s always there when I need him. (Teen Titans / Outsiders Secret Files)

Final rambling thoughts:

TIM: Uhh, okay, so I'm just skimming this list - do you really trust me? you're not just saying that? - but anyway, I'm confused because you left some stuff out? Like some stuff that's kinda important? DICK: No? I think I got everything? TIM (starts counting on his fingers): The time I was having a bad day but then I called you. The time I got captured by Two-Face but then you saved me. The time I fell off a train but then you saved me. The time I fell off a building but then you saved me. The time I fell off a different building - DICK: I feel like you're trying to make some kind of point but I'm not sure what it could be.

SO THE THING IS, I put 25 panels in here and not a single one has Dick catching Tim when he’s falling!!! But I think that's a central motif of their relationship from Tim’s POV, not Dick’s. I love Dick, but in some ways I think he is spectacularly un-self-aware.

And I think he especially has a lot of blind spots about Tim. He kinda intermittently gets that Tim admires him, and he enjoys it in a playful I-get-to-boss-you-around way. But Dick tends to consistently underestimate all of his own good qualities & skills, and he meets Tim at a point in his life when he's especially down on himself & his abilities. And so he's unable to see his own influence on Tim, & therefore unable to fully understand a lot of Tim's priorities and loyalties and motivations, because you can't actually understand Tim without understanding Dick's impact on him. There's a fascinating moment in Bruce Wayne: Murderer when Dick's completely blindsided & upset to discover that Tim doesn't entirely trust Bruce, even though this has been a definitive fact of Tim's whole thing ever since he showed up with his Batman needs Robin theory, and Barbara has to actively remind Dick of the obvious-to-everyone-except-Dick fact that a lot of Tim's loyalty is to Dick, and Tim loves Bruce but feels free to be more wary of him. (And to give Bruce credit: this is not something he ever begrudges.) But anyway Babs points this out, and Dick manages to sorta process it for about five seconds, but he cannot actually accept it into his worldview so instead he discards it at the speed of light and goes off and has an argument with Tim instead sdfsfdsf

All of Dick's virtues - Dick's kindness at the circus and Dick's determination to fight through grief and Dick's rigid sense of morals and Dick's vigilante skills and every time Dick has ever backed Tim up or listened to him or protected him or saved him from something or just been casually kind to a stranger in Tim's presence etc etc etc - all these things loom really large in Tim's mental story of Who Dick Is, and What Dick And Tim's Relationship Is. Tim meets Dick before he meets Bruce, trusts Dick more than Bruce, aspires to be Robin instead of Batman. And so in Tim's default version of the story, Dick is the super-special and admirable hero and Tim is... nobody in particular, a tagalong outsider who's barely managing to be a hero, not part of Dick and Bruce's family and not part of their story, who, if he's VERY LUCKY and tries REALLY HARD, might be able to fight his way to proving himself and offering something to Dick that Dick will value, if Dick doesn't get fed up with him first.

But that's not Dick's version of the story!!!

Dick's version of the story is almost the exact opposite, a story where Dick's an outcast failure black sheep who's screwing up everything he tries, and meanwhile Tim is The Sudden New Perfect Robin Who's Better Than Me And Probably Bruce Loves Him More And Probably They Gossip About What A Loser I Am, mixed with a complicated edge of Tim Thinks He's So Smart But He Doesn't Know Me/Us At All. Dick gets much more attached to Tim over time, and Tim gets unnervingly better at the know-it-all psychoanalysis so then Dick gets to have complicated feelings about him being right instead of just annoyance at him for being wrong, plus Dick's relationship with Bruce improves a lot, so Tim stops feeling so threatening. But Dick never fundamentally changes his basic theory of their relationship in which Tim is highly impressive and capable, and Dick is not so much.

And so asking Dick about Tim is kinda like if you asked George Bailey to tell you about Harry Bailey in It's A Wonderful Life; like, you'll be there for five hours while he tells you how great Harry is, and how accomplished Harry is, and how he doesn't really get how or why Harry does the things he does, and maybe George does feel a little resentful or jealous sometimes, but that pales in comparison to all his admiration and trust for Harry who he loves so much, who's better than him in so many ways, and he's not gonna openly gripe but secretly he can't help but feel sometimes like he's such a failure in comparison to Harry, a perfect person who emerged fully formed from Zeus's head with all the virtues and also all the accomplishments, etc. etc. etc. --

-- and he will not actually remember the part where he changed and saved Harry's whole entire life unless you literally send him to an alternate timeline in order to force him to remember it. <3

[snowysosturn]

Speeding Car - Matt Sturniolo Finale

64.media.tumblr.com

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21 Part 22 Part 23 Part 24 Part 25 Part 26 Part 27 Part 28 Part 29 Finale

Pairing : y/n x Matt Sturniolo

Summary : After six years with your boyfriend Alex, you start to mentally check out. At a UCLA party, Alex reconnects with his childhood friend Emily, who proposes a double date with her boyfriend Matt. Your attraction to Matt grows as he pays you the first real attention you've had in years, sparking a complicated emotional journey.

Warnings : MDNI, mentions of memory loss, guilt, mentions of car accident, anxiety, angst, trauma, confusion, swearing

Matt's POV

I walked back the way we came, trying to spot Y/n. In the distance I notice a familiar car, one that I only recoginse from being parked outside Y/n’s apartment. It had to be her. Then, before I could stop myself, I found myself driving again. My hands on the wheel, heading toward the one place I knew she’d be. I let the group know they would have to Uber home, I wasn’t too sure how long this was going to take me.

When I stepped into the LA Kings Valley Ice Center, it was almost eerie how quiet it was. The place was practically empty, saved for one lone figure gliding across the ice.

I knew it was her before I even saw her face.

Y/n moved on the ice with such ease, such grace, she was born for it. Watching her skate was like watching poetry in motion. But seeing her there, knowing the way things were the last time we were here, made my chest tighten. I wanted to go to her, to explain everything, to tell her how much I had missed her, but I couldn’t move.

I stood there, frozen, until she attempted a jump, the triple Axel. But she fell. I could sense the disappointment in her, I knew she could do it, I’ve seen her do it. I took a deep breath and stepped forward, my voice breaking the silence. “You know you can do it, Y/n.”

She turned, her eyes wide with surprise as she spotted me standing by the edge of the rink. “What.. what are you doing here?” She asked, her voice shaky as she stood up, brushing the ice off her pants.

Shit. I didn’t know what to say. I was tired of the front I was putting up. I knew it was time to be vulnerable.

“I knew you’d be here..” I said, trying to keep my voice steady, but my heart was pounding.

"Wait, how did you-"

"I know you better than anyone else, Y/n," I interrupted. It was the truth. Even if she couldn’t remember everything, I did. I remembered every detail about her, every little thing that made her who she was.

She shook her head, disbelief written across her face. “How could you say that when I don’t even know myself anymore?” Her voice cracked, and it broke something inside me to see her like this, so lost, so unsure.

Standing at the edge of the rink, I watched Y/n, my heart pounding in my chest. “Maybe not” I admitted, stepping forward slowly, careful not to push her away. “But I know the you standing right here, right now. The you who comes to this rink when the world gets too heavy. The you who still feels at home on the ice, even if everything else feels out of control.”

I could see the impact of my words on her face. They impacted her, revealing a truth she didn’t want to confront. As much as she might want to push me away and deny it, in that moment, I felt like I saw her more clearly than she saw herself. But as I spoke, I noticed the tension building in her, the way she held back emotions she had buried for too long. I could feel her vulnerability, and I knew she was struggling with everything inside her.

“I don’t even understand why you’re here, Matt.” she finally said, her voice cracking slightly. The words slipped out, raw and honest. She needed answers, and I had to give them to her.

For a moment, silence enveloped us, thick and heavy. I could see the confusion in her eyes, and I understood it all too well. “I’m here because I couldn’t stay away any longer. I need to tell you everything." I said, my voice was quiet but steady. I looked into her eyes, and I could feel the weight of what was about to unfold.

“I know you’re confused, Y/n, and I don’t blame you. I should’ve been more honest with you from the start, but everything got so messed up.” The regret poured out of me, and I hoped she could sense my sincerity.

Before I knew it I was telling her everything about us. Our whole story together. The double date. My house party. Coming back for her after dropping off Emily. Playing Mario Kart. Alex’s fight. Emily and Alex going to Europe. Trying to cut her off. Nicks friendship with her. Topgolf. Venice beach. All the times I wanted to kiss her. Our first kiss. Our first night spent together. And every little bit in between. The nostalgia washed over me, reminding me of the joy we had shared. “I cared about you more than I’ve ever cared about anyone. I wanted to protect you, but I couldn’t even do that right.”

The weight of what I had to share next felt heavy in the air. “The night before Alex and Emily came home from Europe, Nick and Chris went to our friend Tara’s party. It was just the two of us in my house, and you told me that Alex and Emily were cheating on us. I thought that was it. Our way out. I was ready, Y/n. I was ready to walk away from Emily and start something real with you.”

I paused, reaching into my pocket to pull out the missing earring I had kept, The missing earring felt symbolic. As soon as she lost it, I lost her out of my life. “It must’ve fallen off in my bed when you passed out that night. You never knew this part.. but Emily found it before I could confront her. She blackmailed me. She told me that if I left her, she’d ruin your life. She’d tell Alex everything and twist it. I didn’t know what else to do. I was a coward. I should’ve fought for us, but I didn’t. She made me go to that party with her the night… I didn’t expect you to be there.”

The pain washed over me again. How clueless to everything Y/n was this whole time. "I saw the confusion on your face as you looked at me, and I felt torn between what I wanted to do and what I had to do. I wanted to pull you close, to tell you how much I cared, but instead, I had to watch you from the sidelines. I found you in the bathroom, and that was when everything spiraled. I told you that what we had was a mistake,” I admitted, the words tasting bitter on my tongue. “That it was over.”

Even though she couldn’t fully recall it, I could see the emotional scar in her eyes. I knew I shattered her heart that night, and I’d never forgive myself for it.

“You were devastated, Y/n. I saw it in your eyes. And I’m not going to act like I wasn’t devastated too, even though I had to pretend then.” My voice broke, and I took a shaky breath, the weight of my confession choking me. “I shattered your heart in that bathroom. And then.. you ran. You ran into the street.”

The horror of that night flashed in my mind like a haunting reel. My hands trembled as I brought them to my face, trying to shield myself from the memory.

“I tried to stop you. I tried to yell at you from the balcony…” I whispered, my heart racing as I relived it. “The last thing I heard you say was that you loved me. I know you were about to say you thought I loved you too, but I cut you off. I told you to get off the road... and then-”

The words got stuck in my throat, the pain too much to bear. I pressed my palms against my face, wishing I could push the memories away, but they lingered, tormenting me.

“It’s my fault.” I murmured, my voice barely audible. “All of it. You were only on that road because I made you believe what we had wasn’t real. But it was, Y/n. It was the realest thing I’ve ever had. I’ve never experienced anything like you. And I’ve been grieving you ever since.”

My confession hung heavy in the air, suffocating me with the truth of it all. The anger, confusion, and longing I’d felt since waking up in the hospital crashed over me like a tsunami wave, each feeling more overwhelming than the last.

“And I’m so sorry I never fought for you. I know I should’ve, but then Alex appeared in the hospital. You couldn’t remember me. He was acting like you were still together. You had no memory of us, and I had caused you enough pain as it was. I didn’t want to make it worse.”

“I thought I was doing the right thing. I thought it would be easier for you, that you could heal without me dragging you back into the chaos. But I was wrong. I was so wrong.”

The silence between us grew thick, filled with all the unspoken words and feelings that had been buried beneath layers of hurt. I could see the regret etched across my own face, the guilt weighing heavily on my shoulders.

“I thought I could forget you, that maybe it would make everything simpler,” I admitted, my voice trembling as I fought back tears. “But you’re unforgettable.”

I stepped closer, desperation clawing at my heart. “Y/n, I’ve spent every day since that night wishing I could take it all back. Even how I acted so standoff-ish around you. It’s because I love you. I always have.”

“I want to show you that what we had was real. I want you to relive it all. I want to fight for you, if you’ll let me.”

Y/n stood there for a long moment, her eyes glistening with unshed tears as she stared at me. I could see the conflict in her expression, the pain that lingered from everything that had happened between us. My heart pounded in my chest, unsure of what would come next. I’d just laid it all out for her. Everything I’d held back, everything I wished I could’ve changed. Now it was up to her to decide.

Then, without warning, she moved.

Before I could even process it, she was in my arms, her body crashing against mine as her arms wrapped tightly around me. She held on like I was her lifeline, clinging to me for dear life, and all I could do was wrap my arms around her in return, holding her just as tightly.

I felt her shoulders shake, her breath hitching against my chest as the tears she’d been holding back finally fell. The sound of her quiet sobs broke something deep inside of me, and I buried my face in her hair, trying to ground myself in the moment. She was here, in my arms, and she hadn’t pushed me away.

“I’m so sorry” I whispered into her hair, my voice cracking. “I’m so, so sorry for everything, Y/n.”

She didn’t say anything, just held on tighter, as if letting go would cause everything to shatter again. I could feel her tears soaking into my shirt, and it took everything in me not to break down right there with her. I didn’t deserve it, I didn’t deserve her forgiveness, her touch. But I couldn’t bring myself to let go.

We stood like that for what felt like forever, neither of us moving, neither of us speaking. Just the sound of her quiet cries and the soft hum of the ice rink around us. I felt her heartbeat against mine, her body trembling slightly as she let out everything she had been holding inside.

“I don’t know if I can trust you yet.” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I’ll earn it back” I promised, my voice thick with emotion. “I swear to you, Y/n, I’ll earn it back.”

She stared at me for a long moment, her bottom lip trembling, before resting her forehead against my chest, letting out a shaky breath. Her arms loosened around me, but she didn’t pull away completely.

Y/n’s POV

I was astonished by everything I’d just heard but yet, I still felt that familiar pull to Matt again, the same one that had confused me for so long. It was almost like a battle between my head and my heart. One telling me to run, the other urging me to stay. Tears welled up in my eyes, blurring my vision as the weight of everything hit me. All I wanted in that moment was his touch, some kind of reassurance that everything wasn’t broken beyond repair. Before I could even process what I was doing, my arms were wrapped around him, holding on tight, because I couldn’t wrap my head around anything else.

Tears streamed down my face as I buried myself into his chest, my sobs muffled against his shirt. It felt like everything had been building to this moment, all the pain, the confusion, the heartbreak. It all came pouring out.

“I don’t know if I can trust you yet.” I whispered, my voice fragile, like it might shatter under the weight of those words.

“I’ll earn it back.” Matt promised, his voice thick with emotion, like he was holding on just as tightly to this moment as I was. “I swear to you, Y/n, I’ll earn it back.”

I pulled back just enough to look at him, my eyes still blurry with tears. His face was full of guilt, regret, and something else. A kind of desperation, maybe, like he was afraid this would be the last time he’d have me in his arms. My bottom lip trembled, and I placed my head against his chest again. I wasn’t sure If I was ready to fully let him back in, but I wasn’t ready to let him go either.

Everything felt so overwhelming, but I didn’t want to cry anymore. I didn’t want to feel this crushing weight, at least not right now.

“Can we just skate for a bit?” I asked softly, my voice barely audible.

Matt nodded, his hand brushing gently against my back. “Yeah, of course.”

I wiped the remaining tears from my eyes as we made our way to the ice. The rink was still completely empty, the perfect setting for this strange, emotional reunion. I stepped onto the ice first, the cool air hitting my face as I glided forward, stinging it in the process.

Matt followed, his steps surprisingly graceful. I turned back, watching as he moved along without falling.

“Wait, did you play hockey?” I asked, curious and a little impressed by how well he was keeping up.

He looked at me, shocked. “You remember that?” His voice was filled with hope, like this small memory coming back meant more than I realized.

I nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of my lips. “Yeah, it just came to me.”

The tension between us seemed to ease a little as we skated, the ice beneath us smoothing out some of the jagged edges of our past. It wasn’t perfect, and I still wasn’t sure where things would go from here, but for now, this was enough. Just us, on the ice, trying to figure out if there’s a way back to something real.

We skated in silence for a few minutes until Matt broke it. “You should try the triple Axel.”

I turned to him, caught off guard. “What? No, I fucked it up completely there. I can barely keep my balance, and”

“I’ve seen you do it before, Y/n,” Matt said, cutting me off, his voice firm but encouraging. “You’ve nailed it before, and I know you can do it again. Don’t overthink it.”

I shook my head, nervousness creeping in. “I don’t know if I-”

“You’ve got this.” he insisted, skating in front of me, blocking my path. “Just trust yourself. Don’t think. Just do.”

I could see the belief in his eyes, and it made me pause. Matt wasn’t letting me give in to this fear. His faith in me was stronger than the doubt clawed at my thoughts.

I took a deep breath and skated to the other end of the rink, giving myself enough space to build momentum. My heart raced as I picked up speed, every nerve in my body tingling. Matt skated to the edge, watching, his eyes never leaving me.

“Don’t overthink it!” he called out again, his voice echoing in the empty rink.

I closed my eyes for a second, trying to push out all the noise in my head. Then I opened them, focused on the ice in front of me, and went for it. I launched myself into the air, spinning once, twice, three times. My body moved on instinct, and before I knew it, I was back on the ice, landing perfectly.

I did it.

Shock and excitement rushed through me as I stopped, barely believing what had just happened. “I.. I did it!” I shouted, my voice full of disbelief.

Matt’s grin stretched wide across his face. In an instant, he was skating toward me, sweeping me off my feet and spinning me around in the air. I laughed, the sound light and free, as Matt twirled me with pure joy.

“You did it!” he exclaimed, his voice full of pride as he set me down gently but kept his arms around me. “I told you, Y/n, I knew you could do it.”

I was still buzzing from the adrenaline, from the excitement of actually nailing it after all this time. I looked up at him, my breath a little shaky, my heart pounding. “I can’t believe it.”

He smiled, brushing a stray hair from my face. “Believe it. You’re incredible.”

Everything felt simple again, just me, the ice, and Matt. Nothing else mattered. Not the past, not the mistakes, just this moment of pure triumph.

“Wait, wait,” Matt said, a mischievous grin forming on his face. “You remember that time you taught me how to spin? Let me show you again.”

I laughed, stepping back to give him room as he attempted a clumsy spin. He twirled once, his arms outstretched, and I couldn’t help but laugh harder when he wobbled, barely keeping his balance. The look on his face was priceless. Full of pride, like he’d just nailed a perfect routine.

He straightened up, beaming. “See? I’ve still got it.”

Watching him, I felt a warmth spread through me, a joy that I hadn’t felt in a long time. This is fun. I enjoy this. I enjoy his company. I enjoy him. Maybe I need to trust him. Maybe it’s time to let go of the past. Maybe this was the safest way to go. Maybe this is the way it was always meant to go.

I skated closer to him, my heart racing but not with fear this time. It was something else. Something that felt right. I stopped on the ice, meeting his gaze, and in that moment, it felt like everything clicked into place.

“I want this.” I said, my voice steady but soft, surprising even myself as the words came out.

Matt’s eyes widened slightly, a mix of hope and disbelief crossing his face. “You do?”

“Yes.” I said, the certainty in my voice growing. “I want this. I want us.”

Before I could say anything more, Matt closed the distance between us, his hands gently cradling my face as he leaned in. Our lips met, the kiss soft at first, but filled with all the emotions that had been building between us for so long.

It felt like everything I’d been holding in, every doubt, every fear, melted away in that kiss. All that was left was him. Us. And for the first time in a long time, my memory felt clear.

In the following weeks, Matt and I decided to relive everything but in a new way. It felt like starting over, but with all the memories, feelings, and experiences guiding us. Our first group outing after reconnecting was to Golf’N’Stuff. Mini-golfing, of course, since Matt had made it very clear that I was absolutely terrible at hitting a golf ball any other way. He never let me live down the disaster that was Topgolf, but this time, it was going to be different.

We arrived at the course, our usual group with us, Chris, Nick, Nate, and Madi. Funny enough, Madi turned out to be the girl who was with them at the beach that night, and now I felt so ridiculous for letting myself feel jealous. It was nice to rekindle my friendship with her too and I couldn’t believe I’d ever thought otherwise.

As we made our way around the course, everyone’s competitive sides came out, especially Chris and Nate, who turned it into some sort of showdown between the two of them. Madi and Nick were more laidback, laughing at the chaos and whispering to each other as they played. But Matt? He was glued to my side, teasing me every time I lined up a shot.

“Come on, Y/n” Matt smirked, watching me carefully aim. “Don’t mess this one up. The hole’s right there.”

I shot him a playful glare. “Watch and learn.”

To my own surprise, and everyone else's, I managed to get a hole in one. I threw my hands up in victory, letting out a cheer as Matt’s jaw dropped.

“Are you kidding me?” he laughed, shaking his head in disbelief. “You’re hustling us.”

“Oh, please” I grinned, nudging him with my elbow. “I’m just that good at mini golf.”

As the game went on, I kept surprising myself. Shot after shot, I was actually doing well. By the time we reached the last hole, it was obvious. I was going to win.

Matt leaned over, giving me a mocking look. “Alright, Y/n, if you win this.. I might have to accept defeat. But just know, you’ll never beat me at Topgolf.”

I laughed, rolling my eyes. “Challenge accepted. Do you see these swings now? It’s called growth.”

I lined up my final shot, feeling a little pressure from everyone watching. But I took a deep breath, focused, and hit the ball just right. It rolled smoothly across the green and dropped into the hole.

“I win!” I cheered, jumping up and down with excitement. The group groaned playfully, but everyone was smiling.

Matt wrapped his arms around me, lifting me slightly off the ground. “Alright, you win this round, mini golf champion.”

The victory felt good, but what felt even better was how natural everything had become again. The laughter, the teasing, the warmth of being with the people I cared about. I wasn’t just rebuilding my relationship with Matt. I was reconnecting with all of them, creating new memories to replace the ones that were lost.

Our first solo date was to Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park, to be exact. It felt close enough to Venice, where so much had happened between us, but it was still new territory. A fresh start. The moment we stepped onto the boardwalk, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. It wasn’t just about spending the evening together. It was about creating something new, something just for us.

The sun was setting, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore filled the air as we made our way toward the rides. Matt had that familiar, easy grin on his face, and it was contagious. We grabbed some candy floss as we walked, his arm casually draped over my shoulder as he teased me about the way I was already eyeing the Ferris wheel.

"First ride?" he asked, pointing toward the towering wheel spinning in slow circles.

"Obviously, I have to ease you in first" I laughed, taking a bite of the cotton candy. "But after that, you’re going on the roller coaster with me."

Matt raised an eyebrow. "Oh, you think I’m scared of the roller coaster?"

"I know you are" I teased. "But we’ll see if you can handle it."

We got in line for the Ferris wheel, and as soon as we were in the little gondola, the world seemed to slow down. The view of the ocean stretched endlessly in front of us, and for a few moments, it felt like we were the only two people in the world. The sunset began casting orange and pink hues across the sky, and the calm of the water below was the perfect setting.

“This is nice” I said softly, leaning my head on his shoulder.

“It’s perfect” he replied, his arm tightening around me. “No distractions. Just us.”

When the ride ended, we headed straight for the next ride. Pacific Plunge, the sign read. Matt tried to act cool, but I could see the slight hesitation in his eyes. Still, he followed me into the line, determined not to back down.

As we sat in the car, I couldn’t help but grin. "Ready?"

"Always" he replied, though I could hear a hint of nerves in his voice.

The ride took off, and the thrill of the drops of the tower made me laugh uncontrollably. I glanced at Matt during the ride, and his expression was priceless. He was holding on for dear life, but there was a smile on his face too.

When we got off, he shook his head, laughing. “Alright, fine. You win this one.”

“Told you” I teased, bumping into him lightly. “But you handled it well.”

The rest of the evening was filled with more rides - the bumper cars, where Matt definitely gave me a run for my money, and the spinning swings, where we both got dizzy but couldn’t stop laughing. We played some carnival games, too, and Matt even won me a stuffed animal from the ring toss game, though I suspected the worker might’ve rigged it in his favor.

By the time we decided to leave, the lights of Pacific Park were twinkling against the night sky, and the pier was still bustling with energy. We walked along the boardwalk, hand in hand, the sounds of laughter and the distant hum of the carousel filling the air.

“This was a good day,” I said, smiling up at him.

“The best.” he replied, squeezing my hand gently. “We needed this.”

And he was right. It was exactly what we needed. A new experience, something just for us, without the weight of everything that had happened before. Just us, having fun, and building something real again.

And that brings us to the present day. Six months later and a five-and-a-half-hour flight to Boston. The city skyline faded behind us as we pulled up to Matt's family home, and his excitement was contagious.

“I can’t wait to introduce my mom and dad to my girlfriend.” Matt grinned, glancing over at me with that same boyish smile that never failed to make my heart flutter.

My mind jumped back to the memory of him asking me a few months ago. How I woke up one morning, to blueberry pancakes, cut up in to letters reading “Will U B my GF”. It was things like that that made me love Matt. The little things. He just got me.

As we stepped out of the car, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Meeting his family was a big step, but the way he held my hand tightly in his reassured me. We walked up the pathway, and before we even reached the door, it swung open to reveal his parents, Mary-Lou and Jimmy, both smiling warmly, arms outstretched to welcome us.

“You must be Y/n!” Mary-Lou said as she embraced me, her warmth immediately putting me at ease. “It’s so nice to finally meet you.”

"It’s so nice to meet you too!" I smiled, feeling the tension in my shoulders ease. Jimmy gave me a friendly handshake, then pulled me into a hug.

Over the course of the afternoon, we had endless conversations, swapping stories and laughs. It felt natural, like I’d known them for years. At some point, Mary-Lou turned to me, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.

“I heard you’ve qualified for the Olympics?” she asked with a proud smile.

“Yeah I can’t believe it!” I replied, glancing over at Matt with a smile. “I have Matt to thank for pushing me to get back into it.”

“That’s amazing! Getting to be a part of the Olympics in your hometown!” Mary-Lou beamed, and Jimmy nodded in approval.

The moment felt surreal. A far cry from where I was just a few months ago, lost and unsure. But here I was, not only finding my way back to skating but also standing beside someone who believed in me, maybe even more than I believed in myself.

Later that evening, after dinner and more stories shared around the table, Matt and I stepped outside onto the porch, the cool Boston air wrapping around us. The stars were out, scattered across the night sky, and everything felt peaceful. He stood next to me, his arm slipping around my waist as we looked out at the view.

“You’ve made me the happiest I’ve ever been.” Matt said quietly, his voice filled with sincerity. “I can’t believe how lucky I am to have you in my life. To be here with you now.”

I looked up at him, my heart swelling. "I think I'm the lucky one" I whispered. “You gave me a reason to believe in myself again.”

He turned to face me fully, his eyes locking onto mine with that familiar intensity. “We did this together.” he said softly. “I’m just so glad I get to share all of it with you.”

And then, under the stars and in the quiet of the night, he kissed me slowly, tenderly, like we had all the time in the world. It wasn’t just a kiss, it was a promise. A promise of everything we had built, everything we were, and everything that was still to come.

“I love you” I whispered, pulling back just enough to meet his gaze.

“I love you too” he replied, his eyes shining with so much emotion it nearly took my breath away.

And in that moment, I knew - this was exactly how things were meant to be.

NEW CHRIS SERIES HERE

a/n : and just like that, we're finished :( my first ever fic. thank you so so so sooooo much to every single person that has supported this and given it so much love over the last 2 months. this fic and everyone reading it helped me through a breakup of a 10 year relationship and i’ll always be grateful. it was so fun to write and im so sad its an end of an era. I now have a general taglist here if anyone would like to be on it just interact with the post. thank you so much again for everything <3 a new chris series is coming soon!

Snowy <3

taglist : @muwapsturniolo @anitahunt @sturnfannn @jayde510 @chrissfavhoe @babyalliah-777 @v33angel l @urmom69lol @willowrites @ribread03 @2muchofaslvt @sturnsaver @sleepysturniolo @jcsturniolo11 @jessie-essie @hoeforchrizz @mynbbys @sturniolopanini @mattsturnxoxo @delicatechrry @t77te @sturnsyaper69 @hotdismylife @maggot3647 @ivysturnss @noplaceissafeanymore @mattssgf @yourfavsturniologirl @maethem0nth @sillyponygrl @mattyblover07 @imjusthereforthesturniolosmut @dominicfikeenthusiast @mattsfavbigtitties @ncm9696 @chrisstvrns @schlutt4matty @lvrsturniolo @chrissolos @ilusa @amelia-sturniolo3 @wonnieeluvvr @pussydestroyer100 @amexiass @mystinkylefttoe26 @lizzysmith110 @sturniololovebot @secret-sturniolo @freshythefishy @witchofthehour @stvrnlover @alizestvrnss @beachbabe000 @pinkdyit @pvssychicken @starkeyszn @matts-girlfriend

[mildlyromanticperv]

What took you so long?

MReader x Eunha fluff. Friends to lovers.

-Hey, you. -You call out for your best friend Eunha after arranging going out to watch a movie.

-Hey! -Her unwavering excitement and cuteness fills your heart with joy, like every time she smiles.

-You ready? We need to go fast, the movie starts in 15...

-Yep! Actually, I called a cab, it should be here any second... -She looks around waiting to see that yellow car, not long after it appears around the corner.

Upon entering and providing the directions you remain silent looking outside the window, lost in thought as your imagination runs wild on how will your best friend react when you finally say it, when you finally confess.

-Hey, you're quieter than usual, is everything okay? -Her sweet voice brings you back to reality as she places a hand on your shoulder.

-Yeah, I'm fine, work is just too much sometimes and I didn't get enough sleep. -You chuckle slightly trying to brush off the anxiety that you're feeling, certainly there's no good time to speak of your feelings...

During the silent car ride, Eunha can't help but feel uncomfortable, she's used to your bickering and unending yapping of your work or love life, or precisely the lack of it, drowned in worries she gets closer and covers your hand with hers.

-Look, sweetie, you can trust me, whatever's going on you know you can talk to me, right?

If you would have to create a scale from 1 to 10 grading the levels of blushing, you'd certainly be at 11 at that very moment feeling her soft hand and tender caress, she clearly worries, she is clearly caring for you.

-I'm fine, Eunha, for real, it's so cute of you to worry about me but I promise, I'm fine. -The way she looks at you with so much worry just melts your heart, even when through your mind hundreds of thoughts of insecurity and doubt clouds your judgement... Despite the fake smile you put up she smiles back.

-Okay I'll take your word for it but you better be telling me the truth, mister. -She crosses her arms and pouts playfully.

Not really paying attention to what just happened you two arrive at the nearby mall ready to spend the next two hours sitting in awe to the last Avenger's move you two are completely fans of.

Despite what people usually say, spending this much time together with your crush is not that bad, even though in your heart you feel like there's no future... Are moments like these the ones that make it all worth it, or at least that's what you thought all this time, it's what you thought until she closed the gap between you two after coming out of the cinema.

-God! Why are all cinema rooms so freaking cold!

-It's your fault for coming in such a cute dress. -You laughed at her reaction clearly amused and enjoying her closeness, despite her annoyed pout she smacks your arm murmuring "idiot", but in a playful way.

-I'm glad you came with me, Eunha, I know your sisters probably didn't want you to come alone with me... -You chuckle nervously.

-Nah it's fine, they're like that but because they're sure you like me. -Eunha says this without thinking and without expecting that her words would make her blush so hard... Why is this happening? Does she really like her best friend? Should she take the next step?

Her silence worries your heart, it's unlike her to become quiet all of a sudden and it's rarer to see her blush at her sisters teasing... Could it be...?

-Hey, I wanted to talk to you about something, why don't we go get some coffee? -Your reassuring smile sends a warm wave through her body, returning the confidence and her smile.

-Sure, but you don't have to be so cryptic, idiot... -Her usual self comes back as she pokes your cheek protesting.

Some time later...

"This is it." You thought, the time has come finally, is it now or never...

"Either you speak up or you'll lose him forever." The thought crossed her mind when you two finally sat down at the coffee shop and the silence covers you both.

-Eunha... -You're the one to speak first, a billion ways to tell her your feelings cross your mind and none of them is the way you had it planned. -I like you. -Is the only thing you blurted out after feeling everything at once, after all this time...

-I like you too. -Her words come like a bucket of cold water, you open your eyes as much as you can and gasp in full on shock when you hear her words.

Silence falls between you two.

Ten, fifteen, thirty seconds fly by feeling like an eternity...

-You really mean it?

-Yes, Eunha, I really mean it... Since always, I haven't been able to think of anyone but you. -You finally get the courage to look at her in the eyes. -I really like you.

Your heart starts to swell and ache at the sight of her tears coming down, you never thought such simple words would hurt her that way...

-I'm glad. -She says between tears. -Because I didn't know how to tell you either, I was afraid that once I told you our friendship... Us... Would end.

Maybe it's the influence of all the romantic novels and shows you used to watch alone, maybe it's the hero complex you developed when you were a kid, but without giving it a second thought you decided to stand up and quickly rest one knee on the ground while cleaning her tears.

-There's no way in hell I'm going to let us end. Especially now that I know that you feel the same way for me as I feel for you. -The soothing feeling of your hand running through her cheek makes this moment a million times better for her, your eyes meet as the emotions flow out like a stream. Despite the lack of words you are encountering in a bubble, where only you two exist... Where nothing else matters.

Where you two can finally be together.

-What took you so long to tell me? -She asks, the sheer raw happiness pouring out of her every word pierces through your heart making it beat faster and faster, rendering you unable to answer for a couple of seconds.

-I don't know, I seriously don't know! But... -You take a deep breath to collect the last bit of courage you need to take the leap, the final stretch, to kiss her. -But I'm done holding back.

Right at that moment you cup both of her cheeks to hold her into place, you quickly lean forward meeting her lips for the first time and even though it's a rash decision, you make sure your every movement is accurate, precise, filled with emotions.

Her lips respond to your touch dancing freely and hungrily as she returns the kiss with equal passion, she closes her eyes to savour every single second of this intense exchange, remembering every fold, every corner, every inch of you...

The time has finally come.

You two are finally together.

There's no stopping now.

-I love you. -She says after finally being able to convince herself she could live a couple of seconds without your lips and your touch.

-I love you too, Eunha.

[tenjikyu]

𝘥𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘺 𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘦𝘴 - 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘥.

౨ৎ ⋆｡˚ bonten!executives x manjiro’s son!reader , male!reader , izana lives bc fuck it we ball & he adds character to the fic , bonten all lives together in a massive penthouse just like my rockstar!reader fic bc that’s such a fun idea , reader is a very “ ion gaf ” character , reader is not biologically related to manjiro , reader has suffered through childhood abuse , more fluff then angst , going to make a part 2 .

❤︎ the day manjiro sano found you, helpless and starved, he practically convinced himself to ignore you.

❤︎ alas, his big brother didn’t share the same sentiment, quickly walking over to you and overwhelming you with questions.

❤︎ izana talked your ear off, and all the executives present could see that you were pissed by his presence.

❤︎ deciding it would be better to just leave you be to die of starvation, he takes izana’s hand in his own before dragging him away.

❤︎ you barley crossed his mind after that.

❤︎ until he found you in an alleyway, drenched in blood that was certainly not your own.

❤︎ you were wielding a simple thin kitchen knife, and you were clearly distressed.

❤︎ looking over your shoulder, you notice the man’s presence behind you, and get in an offensive position, ready to attack need be.

“what happened?” the boy with frosted skin asked you, staring lifelessly at the rather large man that had a slice to his throat.

“he followed me back to the alleyway after i borrowed some apples from the store next to his. when i told him to leave, he didn’t.” you explain, glaring at the corpse next to you.

“and so, i had to take matters into my own hands.”

you seemed almost indifferent to the stench of blood, your eyes spoke a million words to manjiro. it was as though this was an all to familiar scenario for you.

“come boy, i’ll get you a change of clothes.” the man before you almost orders you. scoffing, you race to him and grip the knife to his throat.

“like hell i’m going anywhere with you.” you spit at the man, completely oblivious to just how dangerous he was, not that you would’ve cared regardless.

it’s a kill or be killed world, and you weren’t going to become apart of the former. not again.

manjiro only sighed, waving your hand away from him.

“come, or do you want the cops to find you? you aren’t getting anywhere dressed like that. if you’re with me, the police force won’t be able touch you.”

at the end of the day, you had just killed a man once more, and you knew deep down that the strange man in front of you was right.

there was no way you’re getting out of this alone.

❤︎ and so, you allowed the lean man to hold your even thinner wrist as he walks through the streets. it was about 10:00pm by now, and manjiro knew that his brother is probably blowing up his phone as you two walk.

❤︎ regardless, he takes you into a shady thrift shop and gets you dressed. nothing fancy, just a black hoodie with some worn jeans and a pair of 2nd hand converse shoes. not the best, but much better then the rags you were wearing beforehand anyways.

❤︎ as he made his way back to the penthouse, which could easily home more then 15 people, he finally answers his silenced phone.

❤︎ izana is giving him the usual earful about how he “shouldn’t leave without his big brother” and how “anyone could be tracking his movements.”

❤︎ manjiro only holds your little hand tighter as he steps into the place.

❤︎ immediately, 8 sets of eyes land on the two of you.

❤︎ the man with the curly white hair blankly stares into what feels like your soul. he slowly approaches you, before leaning down to his level.

❤︎ “you like taiyaki?”. his eyes crazed and still glaring into you.

❤︎ and thus, you were oddly enough, quickly welcomed into bonten.

❤︎ you were promptly fed and bathed, much to your discomfort, before being placed into one of the many spare bedrooms within their absolutely massive penthouse, right next to manjiro’s bedroom for simplicity’s sake.

❤︎ everything was a first for you, from the endless amount of food stocked in the home, to having adults around you that aren’t about to beat you senseless.

❤︎ after waking up from your first ever comfortable night asleep, you promised to yourself that you wouldn’t speak a word to any of these people.

❤︎ having your trust in the ones supposed to protect you abused and shattered doesn’t get fixed overnight, but that didn’t seem to bother any of the men around you.

❤︎ it has been 2 days since your arrival, and apart from manjiro showing you around, they seemed to mostly ignore your presence.

❤︎ you did whatever you wanted. watched TV, ate anybody’s food without a care in the world, interrupted all of the men from getting their work done and stolen an excessive amount of personal items that belonged to the executives, much to their confusion.

❤︎ some of them used the spare bedrooms as 2nd offices (apart from the one at HQ), and you used that as a way to learn more about the guys who had ripped you from the streets.

❤︎ and from that, you learned then that you were currently residing in the most dangerous home in japan, with the deadliest men in the country’s stolen goods scattered in your bedroom.

❤︎ your heart sunk when you heard someone enter the office you were in, only to find the head on bonten staring at you as you scrolled through his laptop.

❤︎ you only blinked, before slowly backing away from him, attempting to make a run for it.

❤︎ “let’s chat, (Y/N).” he takes ahold of your little wrist once more.

❤︎ fuck.

❤︎ you spent a good 2 and 1/2 hours talking to manjiro. you told him about your home life. how your mother slept around with the door wide open, and how your fathers empty bottles typically collided with your forehead if you took a breath too loud. you told him about how you had finally had enough, and murdered them both with the same knife you held to his throat only a few days ago.

❤︎ you told him about how school was a drag, and the kids there would often laugh at the marks left by your father. ‘the boy with unfortunate parents’ was your title, and you found yourself breaking the noses of the children teasing you. and so, you just stopped going.

❤︎ you told him more about yourself. how you (from what you could remember), were nine and turning ten next year, and what your interests were, heavily limited due to lack of exposure.

❤︎ not once did manjiro interrupt you as you spoke. he sat there, legs crossed and staring at you with an indifferent look.

❤︎ after you were done, he gently pulled you by the waist into his lap and ruffled your messy hair.

❤︎ “from now on, you only listen to what i say. you don’t need to listen to anyone else in the house, okay? just do as i say, and you’re free to do as you wish.”

❤︎ that’s all he says as he strokes your hair, attempting to have you drift off in his protective hold.

❤︎ and it works.

A/N : part 2 is gonna have the reader interacting with the executives, as well as the father/son relationship form between him and manjiro.

uncle izana is gonna go so hard.

[alessiasfreckles]

amnesia - part 10 (ona batlle x alexia putellas x reader)

part 1 / part 2 / part 3 / part 4 / part 5 / part 6 / part 7 / part 8 / part 9

a/n: this is what everyone meant by communication, right? right??? thank you to @codiemarin once again (and continually throughout this fic) for advice!!

---------

The next few minutes were a blur. Your fight or flight response kicked in, and your brain opted for flight. Before you even registered what was happening, you were in the back of a taxi, heart pounding.

The alcohol in your system was making it hard to think clearly, and as you stumbled out of the taxi and up the stairs to your apartment, your phone buzzed repeatedly. You pulled it out of your bag and groaned when you saw the missed calls and messages from both Ona and Alexia.

“Nope,” you mumbled, and turned your phone off.

When you finally got into your apartment, you kicked your shoes off, got a glass of water, and sat down on your bed with a groan. Your mind kept replaying the evening’s events, your conversation with Ona, your kiss with Alexia, Ona’s face, over and over again. You swore under your breath, falling back on the bed and covering your eyes with your pillow, and despite how wound up you were feeling, it didn’t take long for you to fall asleep.

You awoke with a start, sunlight streaming through your bedroom window. Shit, what time was it? Your phone was still off so your alarm hadn’t gone off, but the clock by your bed told you that you had about 15 minutes to get dressed and leave the house for your first physiotherapy session. Ugh, your first session back at the training grounds, where Ona and Alexia would be. Still, by now hopefully training would be in full swing, and the chances of you running into anyone would be fairly low.

As you got to the training ground and made it inside without seeing any of your teammates, you breathed a sigh of relief. You knew you had to face Ona and Alexia, had to talk to them, but you just didn’t know how. You felt awful for betraying Ona like that, and so guilty for using Alexia’s feelings for you. 

The session with the physiotherapist went by quickly, though it didn’t exactly make you feel any better about not being able to play football for the time being. Just being there was hard enough, knowing that your teammates were probably outside right now, kicking a ball around. 

You were so caught up in your thoughts about football as you left that you rounded a corner and ran straight into someone - two someones. 

Ona and Alexia. 

Fuck.

The two women looked at you, their surprised expressions quickly turning to relief.

“Y/N! Thank god you’re okay, we were so worried!” Ona said, breaking the silence. 

“We were trying to reach you all night, did you turn your phone off?” Alexia asked, a concerned frown on her face.

“I- um, yeah,” you stammered. Why wasn’t Ona angry with you?

“Maybe we should talk - all three of us,” Alexia suggested firmly, her captain voice coming out. You knew it wasn’t a suggestion, but an order, and nodded. As much as you didn’t want to face them both right now, it was clear that you needed to talk. 

You followed Alexia in silence to an empty training room, waiting until you were all inside with the door closed to start talking.

“Ona, I’m-” you started, but you were quickly interrupted by Alexia.

“Wait,” she said, holding a hand up. “I would like to go first. Y/N, there’s something you should know. I told you that I have liked you for a long time. That is true, but there’s something I didn’t tell you. I have also liked Ona for a long time.”

Wait- Alexia liked Ona? Romantically? You frowned and opened your mouth, but Alexia quickly cut you off again. 

“I’m still talking. Do you like me? As in, do you have a crush on me?” she asked, using air quotes around the word ‘crush’, which you supposed was fair. The way you felt was so much bigger than just a crush.

You glanced at Ona, who was watching you intently, and winced. “I’m sorry, Oni, but, yes, Ale. But, Oni, I love you as well, I promise.”

“Okay,” Alexia said calmly. “Oni, would you like to tell Y/N about your feelings?”

Ona blushed, looking down at the ground. “I love you, Y/N, but I- I also like Ale. A lot. I have for a long time, I just didn’t realise it.”

Okay, now you felt like you had to sit down. So, Alexia liked both of you, and Ona liked both of you, and you liked both of them? 

“Last week,” Alexia kept talking. There was more? “Ona and I kissed.”

Wait.

What?

“What?” you asked, your brain unable to comprehend what Alexia had just said.

“Last week, a week ago today, actually, Ona and I kissed. It only happened once, but it happened. That was when Ona realised her feelings for me,” the captain explained.

“So… on Monday, the day after I went to your place and we kissed,” you said, turning to Ona. “You kissed Ale?”

Ona nodded, biting her lip. 

“You kissed a week ago and you didn’t tell me?” you asked, frowning. 

“Ye-es, but-” Ona started, only for Alexia to cut her off as well.

“Si. Ona felt guilty and left immediately, but then we thought of something. She figured that you liked me, and we thought, what if all three of us could be together?”

You let out a harsh laugh, taking both women by surprise. “What?”

Alexia’s face remained composed. “What if all three of us could be together? You like me and Ona, Ona likes you and me, and I like both of you. What if we could all be together?”

Your brain felt like it was melting. “Wait, and you thought of this last week?”

The blonde nodded. “Si.”

“Is that why you were acting so weird all week, why you kept pushing me and saying weird stuff about Ale?” you asked Ona, who had the decency to look apologetic as she nodded. 

“We wanted you to think about this yourself, we didn’t want to push you so soon after your accident, and-” 

“So you decided the best way to do that was by lying to me? After I told you, told both of you, how upset the lying made me, especially after the accident, especially after I lost all my fucking memories and couldn’t even trust what my own brain was telling me?” you ranted. You were pissed off- no, you were angry. How could they do this to you? Regardless of anyone’s feelings, how could they lie to you and go behind your back like this?

“Ona, you made me feel fucking crazy!” you exploded, turning on her. “After I told you how upsetting it was not to know myself, you made me feel insane.”

The younger player had gone pale as she realised just what she’d done and how she’d made you feel. “I- I’m sorry, I-”

“And Ale! All that talk about how you would treat me like an adult, you’d let me make my own decisions. So that was just bullshit, huh? Guess I’m not adult enough to make my own decisions about things like my own relationships.”

Alexia winced at your words. “No, amor, I-”

“Save it,” you said. “I’m done talking to either of you.”

As the door swung closed behind you, the sound echoed in the hallway. It was only when you left the building and felt the warm Spanish sun beaming down on your face that you realised you were crying.

[shanastoryteller]

Happy Birthday grandma! How about BFF WWX LXC and NMJ? Or female!MXY? Your choice🌻🌻🌻🌻🎉🎉🎉🎉

Ps. Made it?!?!

a continuation of 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

Lan Xichen arrives to his brother and Xuanyu in the middle of an argument.

They’re surrounded by corpses, Xue Yang inexplicably among them, and the missing Xiao Xingchen is standing there huddled against Song Lan’s side, looking strangely small, while a blind girl stands on his other side.

Sizhui and Jingyi are staying several steps back in an attempt not to get caught in the couple’s argument.

He almost regrets leaving A-Yao behind with the rest of the disciples. It had made sense at the time, with the low but present chance that they’d run into trouble, but now he wishes he could be the one dealing with their siblings instead of him.

“-not just going to – XICHEN-GE! GET DOWN HERE!”

The disciples, who’d demanded to come along, cringe away and even send him sympathetic looks.

She only calls him Xichen-ge when she wants something. He’s pretty sure A-Yao taught her that.

He descends, jumping off his sword, and frowning when he gets a closer look at her. She has wounds around her waist and shoulder even though they seemed to have stopped bleeding and there’s a variety of colorful bruises on the bits of skin he can see on her, which means there’s even more hiding beneath her robes. “You’re injured.”

“It’s nothing,” she says dismissively. Wangji’s eyebrow twitches. “I want Song Lan, Xiao Xingchen, and A-Qing to accompany us to Koi Tower.”

He assumes A-Qing is the blind girl. “Ah.”

“It’s not proper,” Wangji says, enough irritation bleeding though that this is clearly not the first time he’s said that.

She sends him a scathing look. “We can’t send them back to Cloud Recesses, Lan Qiren will eat them alive, and we can’t leave them alone. Look at them! Look around! They need help.”

“Ah, Madame Lan,” Song Lan says tentatively, “you’ve already done-”

“Shut up,” she says and his mouth snaps shut. Lan Xichen stares. He’s encountered Song Lan many times and has never seen him act like this. “Where are you going to go? What are you going to do? You deserve rest, all three of you, and while I would hardly call the Jin restful, it’s at least better than having to watch you back on the road.” She frowns. “Also, what’s with Madame Lan? I told you to call me Xuanyu. If you fight an army of the undead together, you don’t have to use titles. It’s a rule, or something.”

Wangji’s eyes narrow and Song Lan smiles at Xuanyu before he catches sight of Wangji’s expression and then his lips thin out into a straight line.

Lan Xichen can already feel a headache building.

She’s only been missing for a few hours. How did any of this even happen?

If he wants to find out, then he’s going to have to give in to her. She won’t tell him anything otherwise, he assumes, because A-Yao definitely wouldn’t. Besides, he has no reason to deny her. She is Madame Lan and Lady Jin and she’s more than entitled to add people to their traveling party and to invite wandering cultivators to Koi Tower.

“The rest of our party is nearby,” he says finally. “We’re happy for you to join us.”

His brother glares at him, but what does he expect him to do? She’s Wangji's wife.

[fornasedensgudar]

A while back ago I had a lil rant about the pagan/heathen/witch community and made this list with my friend about some problematic aspects about our craft/faith/practise or what ever you call it to help pepole who are new to it.

Idk if it any of worth or if anyone will bother to read all this but I hope its somehow helpfull for you new ones to this path.

(Pardon my 🇬🇧, im a 🇸🇪)

1. Not every polytheist does magic or has an intrest in it and thats ok.

2. Not every norse heathen knows runes or has to know every Rune and meanings to have a meaningfull relation to the gods and nature.

3. Not every raven is a sign of Odin, sometimes it just means you saw a raven and thats just as good if not better if you ask me.

4. Being able to quote havamal in old norse or know every myth and kenning of the gods is good. But does not mean you have a stronger spirital connection the land and the gods then those who dont know it all. It just means you are good at reading. And that in it self is something you should take pride in.

5. A good acorn and some dirt is just as good if not better than any long ritual with ancient chantings sourounded by a collection of crystals.

6. The pebble you find on a walk can shine just as fine on your altar, as the amethyst that was mined and payed for.

7. Your altar dont have to look Nice, it just need to feel Nice.

8. An offering dont have to be big to work. It just have to mean something.

9. Offering one loaf of bread you baked with your own two hands, is worth more than five loafs you payed somone to bake.

10. Just because a pebble dont have a story, does not mean it never had one. And just because a star has a story, does not mean its a good one.

11. If all nature is holy, that includes the parts you dont like or find nasty. Yes even ticks and spiders, mud and horrnets. No one said you had to like holy things.

12. Your body is a temple yes, but you and only you decides what rites and offerings are right the god within said temple.

13. You can still be a drunk horny ape and be spiritual.

14. No illustration of the gods is more corect or more true to their form.

But then there is no garantee everyone will see who its meant to be. And thats ok.

15. Doing spirtual junk and practise magic or healing does not make you more enlightened...

16. Just because you wrote a book about magic, healing and spiritual matters, does not make it a good book or you a good author.

17. Just because someone you look up to said it, does not make it more right. It just means they said it.

18. Making this list to remind the pagan/witch/heathen community to hummble them selfs does not make me better. Im also doing this to just remind myself. Im not better or wiser than any of you lot.

19. Dont ever expect to have your craft respected if you dont give that same respect back to others.

20. It does not matter how old or big your coven or group is. If it has toxic and harmfull parts that clearly hurt and or make pepole unhappy. Then its ok to criticize it. Age or size does not make it untuchble.

21. If a craft or faith says its all about nature but cant change its ways, then it has clearly missed a very important thing about how nature works.

22. Every rock is an altar and every forest is a temple.

23. For every horn of mead you offer to the gods, you should plant at least one seed.

24. If all in this world has a spirit and is alive, does not mean you cant take space and exist and live in it.

25. Its not about beliving. Its about to experience and to perceive. That if you ask me, is the core of animism and polytheism.

[cryptidorchid]

Writing out my thoughts on Pearl and Scott’s relationship in the Life Series (with more focus on Scott cause I haven’t watched all of Pearl’s episodes)

Scott feels like Pearl being hurt isn’t his problem

Something that sets Scott’s relationship with Pearl apart from the other teammates he had around the same time is that Scott is never protective of Pearl. He was protective of Jimmy when he turned red in Third Life and he was protective of Cleo in Double Life basically the whole way through. But with Pearl, he doesn’t seem that concerned for her. This is a result of the way their partnership started.

In Last Life, Scott started with two lives and Pearl started with six. Scott was uncomfortable being so close to red so he specifically went looking for someone to obtain a life from. Scott found Pearl and agreed to team with her in exchange for a life. The deal went well. Scott got a life. Cool.

The problems started in episode 2 when Joel was the Boogeyman. After trapping them in their house, Joel started attacking Pearl and Scott ran in to save her and was killed instead.

Afterwards, Scott was back on yellow and Pearl still has 5 lives so he asked Pearl for another life, an ask he was clearly uncomfortable with. Pearl is hesitant at first but agrees to give him another one.

It works out but I think this is the moment that really convinced Scott that Pearl doesn’t need protecting; she has way more lives than him and is decent at survival besides. And even if she does need protecting, he definitely shouldn’t be protecting her when he could be protecting himself. And I think this mentality really shows in the episode that follows this one.

Last Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 3 - 15:06-15:14 Scar: You give me that or I’m going to burn you Scott: He does have a right to burn- PEARL! Pearl runs away with the cactus Scott: I take no responsibility for her. She’s a loose cannon. Scar approaches a dog with a flint and steel Scott: That is her dog Pearl: NOOO!

Scott realizes Pearl’s making enemies with Scar and when Scar starts threatening her over it, Scott instantly takes Scar’s side and distances himself from Pearl (“I take no responsibility for her”). In order to keep himself safe, he is actively choosing to help Scar instead of protecting her. To be fair this is a rather low stakes situation where if Pearl actually ends up in danger, she can just give the cactus back, but a less low stakes situation is when Lizzie Boogey kills Pearl.

Last Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 3 - 24:20-24:25 After Lizzie Boogey kills Pearl Lizzie: It was gonna be either of you. I didn’t care which one of you died. One of you just had to die. Scott: To be fair, Pearl had more lives than me so it worked out better that way

It’s not like Scott is particularly understanding towards Boogeymen. When Joel killed him last episode, he was not this calm about it and told Pearl to kill Joel in revenge. But in this case, he just grabbed Pearl’s stuff and said he was glad it wasn’t him.

On top of that, it gets even more obvious that he’s not that bothered by the idea of Pearl dying when you compare the way he treats Pearl to the way he treats Cleo.

Last Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 6 - 6:45-6:58 After Scott says he won’t Boogey kill Pearl or Cleo Cleo: I couldn't take the trauma again Scott: Yeah, I wouldn’t do it to you Cleo. If anyone, I’d go for Pearl because she has more lives and it wouldn’t be as hard to deal with. Pearl, if I don’t kill anyone between now and the end, I may need to out of desperation

It's pretty clear that this is a result of Pearl having more lives than both him and Cleo and Cleo having joined their team specifically as a result of being betrayed. But all the same, Pearl dying is acceptable to him in a way that Cleo dying isn’t. Which I think also shows in episode 8.

Last Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 8 - 36:10-36:30 Scott: I witnessed you run out of the forest with Joel chasing you. By the time I got down to the bottom of the tower, you’d died, and I was so upset, Cleo Cleo: It's okay  Pearl: You’re witnessing a lot of death, Scott, and you haven't been there to save our lives  Scott: I also haven't been your cause of death, Pearl, to be fair.  Scott pulls out a potion of harming Scott: All it takes is two of these apparently. It could be quick and clean.

The difference in treatment is incredibly obvious. He feels bad about not saving Cleo. He thinks Pearl should be grateful he didn’t kill her himself. Granted, there is a world where Scott is upset here not because he failed to save Cleo but because he failed to kill her to cure himself of the Boogeyman curse. I’m going to talk about why I don’t think that’s the case soon.

Regardless of his intentions with Cleo, him responding to Pearl by reminding her that he could be killing her instead does indicate that he’s annoyed by the idea that he should be protecting Pearl.

Tangent about why I think Scott was more concerned about Cleo’s wellbeing than his own in this moment: 

Right before Cleo died, Scott was aiming at Joel who was in the forest, rather than Cleo who was out in the open.

 In order to get Cleo's stuff out of the river as quickly as possible, he took the worst possible path down from the tower.  He took 9.5 hearts from fall damage. Even with regen he had 3 hearts by the time he got down there. Even if he was in a rush in case Joel tried to steal Cleo’s stuff, it’d be even worse if a red name was down there while he had 3 hearts total. 

Even after acknowledging that Cleo died because Joel caught her on her own, he goes out on his own in the middle of the night because he’s worried Cleo might be trapped in their secret base.

He runs into Grian and Joel on the way and as he’s fleeing, he yells “Why did you kill Cleo?”

In general, I think this entire sequence shows a lack of self-preservation on Scott’s part and implies he was acting emotionally rather than strategically. If he was really just concerned about himself, this feels like an odd way of going about it.

This isn’t to say that Scott doesn’t care about Pearl’s wellbeing at all. When he’s going to look for Cleo, he asks Ren to protect Pearl since Pearl was looking after Cleo’s stuff which was outside the safety of the wall. He didn’t need to ask Ren to do that but he did because he cares about Pearl. I don’t want to give the impression that they have no sweet and caring moments together. They do. It’s just not important to this analysis so I’m not going into detail.

TLDR; Scott never puts Pearl’s wellbeing over his own which is in contrast to the way he treats Cleo, his other teammate during Last Life. As much as he’d prefer Pearl to be well, if she’s not, he doesn’t feel like it’s his fault or his responsibility to fix.

This leads me into Double Life.

Scott never regretted rejecting Pearl

I don’t think Scott ever really hated Pearl. He was mad at her for not looking for her soulmate and going to the Nether. So he thought not teaming with her would be an appropriate punishment and would be better for him since he would be teaming with someone he feels is committed to him.

In spite of this, he still suggests there’s a possibility of reconciliation in both episodes 2 and 3.

Double Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 2 - 21:54-22:04 Scott: Me and Cleo had already bonded. We spent the entire day running on the server meeting everyone else and you never showed up.  Pearl: You can bond still with more people. It's fine. Scott: It's going to take time, Pearl

Double Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 3 - 26:02-26:08 Scott: Pearl, you come back after I’m done with these two and we can then go over our issues. How about that?

Him saying this implies to me that Scott never really meant to be angry at Pearl forever. So why did he break up with her in the first place? Well, he didn’t really expect her to take it as hard as she did.

Double Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 2 - 22:55-23:00 Pearl: I wasn't trying to be your soulbound, Scott. I never wanted to be your soulbound Scott: Then, why are you making a big deal about it?

Double Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 2 - 23:32-23:43 Scott: Maybe you have gone a little loopy irl! Like, do you want me to call someone in person?  Pearl: Look, Scott, you've done me some damage, alright? Scott: Apparently!

Even though she was struggling more than he expected and he’s not necessarily happy about that, this doesn’t convince him to change his mind though because again, he doesn’t feel like it’s his responsibility to protect Pearl’s wellbeing, especially not over his own. To him, Pearl being heartbroken over it, though unfortunate, doesn't make his actions wrong. On top of that, Pearl actively harming him through powdered snow and being liable to cause problems in his relationship with Cleo also wasn’t helping him sympathize with her. 

Double Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 3 - 19:20-19:44 Pearl: So, what you’re saying. Right now. Is that I should kill Cleo one more time and then you won’t be… even soulmates at that point Scott: See, you’re not red. You’re not allowed to do that Pearl: What do you mean? As far as I’m concerned I’m red as can be, Scott. Scott: As far as your sanity, yes. Gone! Gone. Far gone Pearl: And whose fault is that, Scott?! Scott: It’s not my fault you have separation issues! Pearl: Of course, I have separation issues! Everyone abandoned me! Of course, I have issues, Scott! Scott compliments Pearl’s build Pearl: Oh thank you. Someone’s being nice to me today Scott: I can be nice to you when you’re not being unhinged. If you’re less unhinged, people will be nice to you!

Pearl presents a threat to Scott and to his relationship with Cleo, if not Cleo herself yet. As long as that’s true, he will never feel bad enough to take her back. The only reason he teamed with her later was because the threat of red names outweighed the threat of Pearl. As much as he doesn’t enjoy being enemies with Pearl past the initial anger at her, he sees the situation as unfortunate but not really his responsibility to fix, especially if Pearl isn’t going to change. 

And I don’t really think Scott ever changed his mind on this.

Double Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 6 - 14:52-15:21 Pearl: You know what, Scott. It might’ve been hard to forgive you at the start of the season for just abandoning me like that but you know what, you’re pretty good. You’re a pretty good partner Scott: Thank you- I mean, we tested it last time and it worked well. It was just you hurt my feelings when you went away with Martyn and me and Cleo looked for you- Pearl: Hey! Scott: -for ages and then I couldn’t find you and I was sad Pearl: You know, I’m just gonna talk this out for a second. How about reverse, right? You ran off with Cleo from my perspective Scott: We bumped into everyone else. We were actively looking for our soulmates Pearl: I was looking!

Double Life - Scott’s POV - Episode 6 - 14:52-15:21 Pearl: Look, it's my time to ditch you after the first episode. Think of it as karma. Scott: So, we've done a full loop because you ditched me in the first episode then you came back and then you're going to ditch me again Pearl: You ditched me in the first episode. Don't you pretend to play it like that was never your fault  Scott: You didn't make yourself available, Pearl. How was I meant to find you if you were never available!

Whenever Pearl brought it up, he was incredibly clear that he felt the break up was Pearl’s fault. I know some people like to see the sacrifice as Scott apologizing for breaking up with her but everything he says before that actively contradicts that read. I personally believe that when he said that Pearl deserves the win, he was talking about Pearl taking out four other competitors basically on her own. You might think that his reasoning for sacrificing himself in the finale should have been stronger/more emotional, but well… it’s Scott. And he does genuinely care about Pearl to an extent. This read may be less satisfying to some people but I do feel it’s more accurate to his character.

TLDR; Scott always felt that rejecting Pearl was justified. He still cares about her but he doesn’t feel that her taking the rejection harder than expected is his responsibility especially since he considers her a threat to his well being. 

Pearl never forgave Scott for rejecting her

I know that Pearl explicitly said she forgave him in the finale but her behavior in later seasons and the fact that this was the second time she’s supposedly “forgiven him” really make me doubt that.

Double Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 6 - 40:20-40:22 Pearl: I guess I forgive you after all

First of all, this is the second time she’s said she’s forgiven him and yet the way she phrases this makes it sound like it’s the first time, meaning she took back the original forgiveness. Why?

Well, last time she tried to tell Scott she forgave him, Scott reminded her that he doesn’t feel bad about rejecting her. Which I suspect is what convinced her to rescind that forgiveness. I think that her forgiveness was intended less as expressing genuine forgiveness but a way of trying to validate her own pain.

The entirety of Double Life, Pearl has been trying to hurt Scott. She complains about not having friends but this isn’t making her any friends and she’s reluctant to be friends with Scott so what’s the goal? Well, I think she just wants Scott to regret rejecting her. 

Double Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 2 - 2:48-3:02 Pearl: I'm not gonna be as careful. You know what? It's okay. I'm not gonna be as careful. I'm gonna do my own self and Scott can do what Scott wanna do, you know? This is me now. This is Pearl now. You've done this, Scott.

She’s monologuing to a Scott that’s not there because this is what she wants him to think. She wants him to think “Oh, I’ve made a terrible mistake!” 

That’s why she’s telling him she forgives him later. Because her forgiving him implies that he was in the wrong. Which was instantly ruined by Scott reminding her that he was mad at her. So she revoked that forgiveness because it wasn’t accomplishing what she wanted.

And maybe, in the finale, Pearl did interpret Scott’s sacrifice as an apology or maybe she just wanted to say it again now that Scott wasn’t alive to contradict her. Either way, I think since Scott doesn’t regret his actions that forgiveness is inherently fragile and Pearl has proven that she’s willing to revoke that forgiveness. Her behavior in later seasons proves that.

Limited Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 5 - 25:00-25:06 Tango: BigB. Pearl, you guys are in with the TIES. Absolutely  Pearl: Alright, we don't have to make up with Scott now, BigB

Limited Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 5 - 26:21-26:34 Pearl: We got TIES now, you see, and now we don't need to ally with Scott. We don't need allies with the Clockers. We're good BigB: Now, I don't know if we need to make it up at all with the Coral Kid. But-  Pearl: Nah, we're good. We don’t need them.

Okay. Pearl. You know there was another member of Mean Gills right? He may have chased you earlier? Name starts with an M?

Secret Life - Pearl’s POV - Episode 9 - 48:08-48:18 Pearl: It's you and me, Scott. We gotta finish what we started from Double Life. We got something to finish up. I'm gonna murder you~

She’s clearly not over Double Life.

TLDR; Pearl's already revoked her forgiveness once and her actions after Double Life imply that she still holds a grudge against Scott. So it seems unlikely that her forgiveness at the end of Double Life was genuine.

Conclusion

It’s hard to say that Scott and Pearl hate each other because most of the time, they act quite friendly and closer with each other than with most of the other Lifers. But they never really resolved the conflict from Double Life. They neither changed their mind nor really sympathized with the other person’s point of view. As a result, there’s always some resentment under the surface. This goes for both of them by the way. Pearl may switch to spiteful at random but Scott can go cold and lose all affection for her at the drop of a hat. And now they’ve got this on-again off-again frenemies type relationship. They’re probably going to be friends again next season and decide they hate each other by the end again too.

[stackslip]

so after a second watch, the thing with arcane s2 so far is that near all the plot beats are really good and exactly what i wanted, but they also almost all desperately needed more buildup. it's like we're missing 10-15 extra minutes an episode for the scenes that would really flesh out a lot of the characters' motives for the choices they make and to build up the world! it's so painfully obvious that they're craming in plot bc they're missing a season or have cut time per ep, and as a result while im ecstatic at a lot of the developments v few of them feel earned!

vi choosing to become an enforcer, her agonizing feelings re jinx in particular feel like they're missing. we should have seen the moment cait chose to use the vents to target the undercity and others' reaction to this, especially vi. it's great to see the hole silco left, but we needed to see the underground falling apart in something that's not a shiny league amv. we needed to see the kid spend more time with jinx for her choice to defend jinx to hit harder. we needed to see more of jinx's suicidality and her voices disappearing. i would have been so grateful to see mel trying to do more to rally to counter her mother's influence and being foiled at every turn. more hints of ambessa's manipulation too! would have loved to see ekko and his peers rescuing undercity people and dealing with the aftermath of the war there directly!

and like tbc i think they v clearly considered what they did have the time with and chose to trim or cut off near anything that wasnt a super cool fight scene or important plot beats. the ACTUAL beats are near all a win to me tbh! i am ecstatic about cait's character arc, her using the vents made me gasp; the mel and ambessa situation is sooooo fascinating and fucked up; i love the revelation about hextech poisoning the ground; sevika and jinx dealing with the gaping wound of silco's death is so good; viktor's ominous messiah arc is hitting for me; i loooooved cait hitting vi and vi just breaking down.

in terms of missteps, i wish ekko didnt feel like he's just being explained plot at (i like his dynamic with jayce so far tho), i think vi of all the characters suffered by far the most of the sacrificed time to make her choices and words mame proper sense, caitvi kiss felt far more like they had to kiss before they broke up but in context did not work, and made me roll my eyes so hard, we did not need a five minute cait angst montage, i did not care for how "league" the zaunite chembarons felt instead of an organic part of zaun like they did in s1, half the songs are a complete miss to me, etc etc

i dont think the season is a loss and again im interested in the actual beats, and tbh i kinda feel sorry for fortiche and the writing team bc it's obvious that this is less like, active clumsiness on their part or shite writing and far more that time was a deeply limited resource for the story they wanted to tell and they had to make choices. you could argue if it would have been better to drop some plot threads entirely and focus more deeply on others but imo it wouldnt work for a series like arcane where the cast' actions have such massive ramifications on each other so. i get it. it's just really unfortunate considering how tightly written s1's tragedy was

[olivia091108]

how to be a jackass Introduction

Word count:1.k

Tonight I’m going out with my sister and her boyfriend because apparently ‘I need to get a a life’ which I think is kinda rude but the only reason she’s saying that is because her and her boyfriend are thinking of moving out together but I don’t know anyone around town and she doesn’t think I’m responsible. She’s right

“Are you kidding me we need to leave in a half hour and your still in your pyjama’s chop chop”she claps her hands in my face.

She can get quite stressed when it comes to me I wasn’t the easiest to grow up with I was a bit of a hothead we both have a few stories from tell of our fights which she still has a scar form that she never shuts up about

“Alright calm down I have loads of time” I push myself off the sofa and just as I walk past her I barge her against the wall and quickly scurry to the bathroom and lock the door before she gets crazy.

I walk into my room with a towel wrapped round my body and one in my hair and flick the tv on just to have some noise in the background it was an alright show jackass that I would watch when I get back late and nothing else is on except teleshoping. I don’t have anything against it but they need to step it up cos I know give me 10 or 20 bucks I’ll do anything they do.

I find an old shirt from when I was like 15 or something and picked up some jeans that were laying on the floor before slipping on some shoes.

“See I’m ready in what 5 minutes you need to take some Xanax I swear”

“Your hair is literally dripping” I flip my head back and forth no doubt getting it on her. And walk down to her boyfriend Oliver who was gonna drive us.

Once we get their it’s already kicking off and walk towards the bar but some grown men are standing there ignoring me while I ask them to move so I manage to budge my way through them and get a rum and coke.

I start to sweat being surrounded by 15 people who clearly know nothing about personal space. I see my sister and Oliver talking to some dude and my sister starts pointing me out and calling me over.

Y/n come here so you know that show you love jackas-

Love? No I don’t love it I don’t even like it that much but what does that have to do with anything?

“Y/n”she says my name like my mum used to when I would break something she jerked her head to the man just standing there and at first I’m confused but then I realise who he is Oh shit

you don’t like the show sweetheart?the leader of the show asks

“I mean It’s alright but you could do better.” He laughs a bit at my words “oh yeah what then?”

“Nah I didn’t mean to be rud- no I’m serious what do you think”

“Do more nasty shit or more extreme stuff and more painful stunts all in saying is anything you lot do I could do if I knew I was getting paid or just for a laugh”

Ill buy you a drunk if you make out with that man at the bar he points to a fat man who is drenached with sweat and is missing a tooth at the bottom

“Easy.”

I walk over to him and straight up grab his face and kiss him slipping my tongue and feel him grab a handful of my ass and a few seconds later pull away and walk back over to Johnny using the bottom of my shirt to try and wipe my tongue

“Ok your’e turn Pants that biker playing pool” Johnny looks at him and he looks like he will smash his face in. He walks over there and waits till he has his back to him and as hard as he can yanks his jeans down with his boxers coming as well exposing his bare crack Johnny turns round and ores tends to be in a conversation with some random lady.

The man pulls Johnny to face him and holds him by the colour getting redder and redder. His friends start crowding him and they look like they’re gonna jump him so I walk over and tell him.

“Sir they ran into the bathroom he didn’t do it.”

He lets go of Johnny and storms towards the bathroom with his friends following hot on his heals. I burst out laughing making my eyes water.

“I was about to get my ass kicked”Johnny said joining in on your’e laugh.

The night progressed like this having a couple drinks doing some dares. I didn’t even know that Olivier and my sister left. Some of his fiends joined in.

Running along the bar naked then getting pushed off -Chris

I poured salt in my eye

Ehren getting pool balls thrown at him.

And obviously Steve o lit himself on fire spreading it onto my hair

And so on by the end we were all drunk as fuck and had been kicked out.

I wake up with a throbbing head ache and open my eyes but getting blinded by the lights once they adjust I’m in the bath but I don’t recognise it. I get out and try and find out where I am I hear voices so I walk towards it and then it clicks.

We got kicked out and went back to Steve os apartment carrying on the night everything else’s is a bit hazy right now.

I see all of them in the living room chatting and I also see Steve o wearing my shirt that is 4 sizes too small and some boxers.

Hey Steve o can I have my shirt back I groggily ask making them look towards me probably forgetting I was here.

Yeah dude. He takes it off and throws it at me and I take off the one in wearing and give it to him.I turn around and change

“Dude that bruise is gnarly” I look down at my hip bone and see it decorated with a purple bruise from when I tried to break the door down.

“Y/n you weren’t bullshitting last night we’re you? Johnny asks

“What about?”

“Well we were thinking you were right we gotta be more exciting and you seemed pretty into it would you wanna join.”

“No offence babe but Johnny she was drunk as shit she won’t do any of it sobre”

“Try me.”

Time skip

“Im y/n y/l/n and this is electric mouse trap.”

I stick out my tongue and let Chris clip it on to my tongue and immediately feel the electricity. I Jump around in pain trying to keep it in as long as I can to prove to them I can do it. I Shake my head and rip It off my tongue and It feels numb. I try to speak but all that’s coming out is jibberish and everyone including myslef laugh.

“Welcome to jackass y/n”

Guys I’m baaaack

This will be a slower burn series of bam x reader and jackass girl don’t know how often I will post but I’ve planned at least 3 chapters and I’m so excited message me any headcannons you wnat in this

Ik bam wasn’t in this but just you wait

My requests are still open

-liv

[vioartemis]

Scared to lose you

(Emma Myers x fem! reader)

Summary: Emma and you are dating, but you play Wednesday's love interest in the series, and your girlfriend doesn't enjoy it Warnings: so short it can't even be called a one shot 💀 (sorry, I ran out of inspiration for that one) (English isn't my first language, I'm sorry if there are mistakes or if something doesn't make sense TvT)

Emma and you had known each other since high school, and you started dating just a bit more than a year ago. You didn't even tried to keep your relationship secret; neither of you was famous enough to have paparazzis behind you, and you liked it like that.

You had wondered what it would be like to work together, imagining all kind of scenarios, but didn't actually thought it would happen. And here you were, both hired to play a role in the Wednesday series.

And Emma wasn't liking it. At all.

It wasn't working with you that bothered her, absolutely not. It was the fact that she had to watch you kiss another girl. A beautiful girl. She couldn't deny it.

She tried to rationalize: you played Wednesday's love interest, so the chances that there would be a lot of kisses were low. And she was right, you had only one kiss scene.

And she was fine with it; she knew it was for work, and it was just one kiss.

At least that's what she was thinking before seeing you kissing Jenna almost 10 times, as you couldn't seem to get the scene right. There was always something that 'you didn't do right'.

And your girlfriend was starting to get really pissed. And jealous. And hurt.

"Okay, let's take a break, it's not working. Both of you, get some fresh air, eat something, I don't know, distract yourselves, and in 15 minutes we'll try again" the director told Jenna and you

You both nodded, and stretched, before parting ways. You went to your girlfriend, who was clearly not doing okay.

"Hey babe, is everything okay...?" you asked as you got closer to her

"Yeah, it's just... hard, to see you kiss someone else..." Emma said, looking down, as if ashamed to feel that way

"I'm sorry, I thought we'd get it right the first time, I don't know what happened..."

There was a moment of silence, before she finally talked.

"... Maybe she just wants to kiss you over and over again..."

You looked at her in disbelief, not expecting her to say that about your costar.

"What? No, of course not. She knows we're dating, everyone knows. I don't think she'd be the type to do that"

Emma sighed. She knew you were right.

"I- I know, I'm sorry, it's just... I'm just... scared..."

"Scared? Of what?"

"... Scared to lose you... I mean look at me, and look at her... She's so much prettier that me, she has it all, and I'm just... me... I guess I'm just scared you would leave me for someone better..."

"Hey... don't say that..." you took her hands in yours "I don't care about others, okay? I love you, Emma Myers. You're the sweetest, nicest, funniest, prettiest, most perfect girl I've ever met" you said, smiling "And you're a way better kisser than her" you added jokingly

You attempt to lighten up the mood seemed to work, Emma chuckled, giving your hands a soft squeeze.

"Thank you, for reassuring me... I'm sorry, I'm just... really insecure, and I don't want to lose you..."

"It's okay to be insecure, don't apologize babe... Plus I'd gladly show you how much I love you" you smiled

"Oh yeah? And... how do you plan on doing that?"

"I'd shower you with kisses, cuddle you all night... Y'know, that kind of things..."

To emphasize your words, you cupped her cheeks, and started kissing her face; her cheeks, her forehead, her nose, and finally her lips. All that while Emma was giggling, her hands resting on your waist.

"Mm... I think you will have to do more to fully reassure me" she said playfuly

"Of course, my love... Just wait until we're alone, and I'll give you all the attention you need"

You both smiled, as you rested your forehead on hers.

"Hey lovebirds! Sorry to disturb you, but we need to get back to work" Jenna interrupted you, slight smirk on her face

"Oh, yeah, sorry. I'm coming" you told her, before turning back to Emma "I promise I'll try to be quick"

She smiled and kissed you softly.

"It's okay, take your time"

You nodded, and started to walk to the set again, when you heard Emma's voice again:

"Try not to enjoy the kiss too much!"

"I won't!" you replied with a smile, rolling your eyes

At that moment you were only sure of one thing: you would have to make up for these kisses this very night.

[snowysosturn]

Speeding Car - Matt Sturniolo Part 29

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Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11 Part 12 Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16 Part 17 Part 18 Part 19 Part 20 Part 21 Part 22 Part 23 Part 24 Part 25 Part 26 Part 27 Part 28 Part 29 Finale

Pairing : y/n x Matt Sturniolo

Summary : After six years with your boyfriend Alex, you start to mentally check out. At a UCLA party, Alex reconnects with his childhood friend Emily, who proposes a double date with her boyfriend Matt. Your attraction to Matt grows as he pays you the first real attention you've had in years, sparking a complicated emotional journey.

Warnings : MDNI, mentions of memory loss, guilt, mentions of car accident, anxiety, angst, trauma

Matt’s POV

Picking Nate up from the airport with Nick and Chris was a nice break from the whirlwind of thoughts that had been consuming me. He looked exhausted after his flight, so we agreed to head straight home so he could crash for a bit. The ride back was full of the usual routine, Nick making jokes, Chris trying to keep Nate awake by asking him random questions. But I barely joined in. My mind was elsewhere, stuck on things I didn’t want to think about.

Once we got home, Nate headed straight for the Chris’ room, mumbling something about needing a few hours of sleep before he could even think straight. I just nodded, feeling the weight of my own exhaustion, even though I hadn’t done much all day. Just eat and drive.

I went up to my room and lay down on the bed, staring blankly at the ceiling. My mind was all over the place, it was all one tangled mess. No matter how much time had passed, being around Y/n today had brought it all back. Seeing her sitting across from me in that cafe earlier.. how I blurted out her order without even thinking… it felt like a slap in the face, but it was me slapping my own face out of pure stupidity. I was trying to keep my distance, but there was this pull, like no matter how hard I tried to let go, part of me just couldn’t.

I don’t know how long I lay there, just lost in my own thoughts. It felt like minutes, but it ended up being hours. Everything was a blur until I heard a knock on my door.

Chris walked in without waiting for an answer - classic Chris. "Yo, you good?" he asked, leaning against the doorframe.

"Yeah, I'm fine" I mumbled, though we both knew I was lying.

He didn’t push it. "We’re thinking about going to Topgolf. You wanna come?"

I hesitated. The last thing I wanted was to be around people, especially since my mind wouldn’t shut up about Y/n. But I needed the distraction. I couldn’t keep lying here, spiraling.

"Yeah, sure" I said, sitting up and running a hand through my hair. "I’ll go."

Chris grinned, clearly happy with my answer. "Alright, let’s go then. Nate’s already hyped about beating everyone."

I forced a small smile, but inside, I felt like I was barely holding it together. Maybe a few rounds of golf would get my mind off things, or at least, I hoped it would.

-

We pulled into Topgolf and headed inside, grabbing a booth on the top floor. As we settled in, I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling building in my gut. This was the same booth we’d been in when Y/n came with us. I hadn’t been here since that day, and now it felt like everything was rushing back all at once, like the past was coming back to haunt me.

I logged into my account on the screen, waiting for the players to load, and there it was, her nickname, still saved as a player. A flood of emotions hit me hard, like I was drowning. I felt sick. Everywhere I turned, there was a reminder of her, and I couldn't seem to escape it.

Trying to focus, I sat down on the seat, but my mind was spinning. Everything about this place, about today, felt wrong. Nate stood up to take his first shot, when he suddenly turned around and asked: 

"How's Y/n doing Matt? Has her swing gotten better since the last time?" He laughs.

My body froze up. My mind scrambling for what to say. I’d forgotten Nate didn’t know everything that had happened.

"Uh.." I started, but the words got stuck in my throat. What could I even say? That things were beyond complicated?

Nick must’ve sensed the tension, because he quickly jumped in. "She's doing alright. She was in a bit of an accident so just getting back to normal, you know?"

Nate nodded, oblivious to the weight of his question. "Oh god sorry to hear.. You two were pretty close for a while there."

I felt Chris glance at me, but I avoided his eyes. "Yeah.. we were" I muttered, focusing on the course ahead. The words stung more than I expected.

“I’ll talk about it another time, man” I said to Nate, my voice low. “Maybe when my head's clearer.” He nodded, sensing that now wasn’t the time to push it, and thankfully didn’t bring it up again. "Shit, I should’ve asked Madi to come" Nick said, already calling her on FaceTime.

I could hear their conversation from the side, his voice casual. "Can we go to the beach after?" Nick asked. "Madi said she’s near Venice, that she could meet us there."

Venice Beach. Of course. There was just no escaping it. It felt like the universe was messing with me, constantly reminding me of Y/n, of everything I’d lost or maybe never even had.

I sat back, staring out over the range, feeling like I was being pulled in two directions. Was this a sign I was meant to take? Something telling me to face the truth, or just a cruel joke from the world reminding me of what I couldn’t have?

The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the Topgolf range as we wrapped up the session. Chris was all smiles, having beaten Nate this time. The light banter between them helped ease the tension I’d been feeling, if only for a little while.

We piled back into the car and drove toward Venice Beach. The ride was mostly quiet, the chatter from earlier dying down as we all settled into our own thoughts. I kept my eyes on the road, trying to focus on anything other than the mess swirling in my head. I wondered what Y/n was doing now.

When we got to Venice, the sky was pitch black. We parked near the skate park and met up with Madi, who was waiting with a smile on her face.

She greeted us with hugs, and Nick immediately looped his arm around her, walking ahead as they chatted. We walked toward the beach, the sounds of skaters in the background mixing with the ocean’s waves. I kept my distance, trying to act like everything was fine, but the more I looked around, the more restless I felt.

Being here wasn’t helping. If anything, it was making things worse.

As we walked along the beach, Nate fell in step beside me. He didn’t say anything at first, just quietly observing. Eventually, he broke the silence.

"Hey, man" he started, his voice low, "you wanna talk about Y/n?"

I hadn’t expected him to bring it up so soon, but I guess Nate always knew when something was off. I hesitated, staring at the sand beneath my feet, trying to figure out if I was even ready to say everything that had been eating at me. But avoiding it wasn’t going to help, and maybe talking to someone outside of it all would give me some kind of perspective.

"Yeah" I finally said, letting out a breath I hadn’t realized I’d been holding. "I guess it’s time I told you everything."

We slowed our pace, letting Nick, Chris, and Madi walk ahead. I glanced at them, making sure they were out of earshot before I began.

"It’s complicated, man" I said, shaking my head. "Y/n and I… we were something before her accident. I don’t even know if I can call it a relationship, but it felt real. Then she lost her memory after it, and it’s like she doesn’t even know who I am anymore. Alex.. her boyfriend at the time.. remember? Well he was there when she woke up in the hospital, and she thought she was still with him. And I.." I paused, trying to keep my voice steady, "I just didn’t fight for her the way I should have."

Nate looked at me, frowning. "Wait, so Alex just slid back into her life like nothing happened?"

"Yeah" I said, bitterness creeping into my tone. "And I didn’t stop him. I didn’t push, didn’t tell her how things really were between us. I just.. let it happen because I thought she needed space. But now I realize I probably screwed everything up."

Nate nodded, processing everything I was saying. "And she still doesn’t remember you two were together?"

I shook my head. "Not really. She’s been around us but I don't know if she’s putting the pieces together slowly.”

Nate ran a hand through his hair, clearly taken aback by everything. "Damn, man. That’s a lot."

"Yeah, tell me about it" I said, letting out a frustrated laugh. "I just don’t know where I stand anymore. Should I push? Should I let her figure things out on her own? It’s killing me, being around her and pretending like none of it ever happened."

Nate clapped a hand on my shoulder, a serious look in his eyes. "I can’t pretend to know what that’s like, but if you care about her, really care, you can’t keep sitting on the sidelines, man. Maybe it’s time you stop letting everyone else make the moves."

His words hit me harder than I expected. Maybe Nate was right. Maybe I’d been standing still for too long, waiting for something to change when I should’ve been the one making the change.

We caught up to the rest of the group, and I could see Chris running ahead along the sides of the water like a dog chasing a bone.

"Wait, why doesn’t Y/n like fish again?" he asked.

"It scares her when they swim around her feet" I said, laughing a little as the memory came back to me - the small reminder of her, her little quirks, what makes her her.

Chris continued to run ahead, and Madi laughed next to me, unable to control her laughter at the way Chris was running. The beach was nearly empty, and for a moment, I wished more people could’ve seen it like this. Venice was peaceful and quiet tonight. It felt like we had the beach to ourselves.

I glanced around, taking it all in, but that’s when I saw her.

It couldn’t be.

There’s no way she’s here too.

She was leaving.

Fuck.

I have to go after her.

Y/n’s POV

I slammed the door to my car, letting out a heavy sigh. I didn’t even need to think about where I was going, muscle memory took over, guiding me down streets I had driven hundreds of times before. I didn’t bother with Google Maps, I could do this journey in my sleep. My hands gripped the steering wheel tighter than necessary, the feeling of numbness settling deeper with each passing second. Every thought in my head was blurred, but somehow the path ahead was painfully clear.

After what felt like short drive was actually an hour. I turned into the near empty parking lot. LA Kings Valley Ice Center. It was almost surreal seeing it so quiet, the lot nearly deserted, like it was waiting for me, offering me solace. Apparently I hadn’t been here in years, yet it felt like only yesterday that this place had been my second home. A sanctuary. A part of me I’d given up without realizing what I was losing.

For him.

I parked my car, sat there for a minute, and just stared at the building. It loomed in front of me, a reminder of everything I used to be, everything I could have been. The memories of countless hours spent on the ice flooded back, laughing with friends, perfecting routines, pushing my body to its limits. A life I’d left behind, foolishly, for someone who had no place in my future.

Stepping out of the car, I headed toward the front desk, a strange mix of anticipation and apprehension swelling inside me. The older man at the desk smiled at me as if he recognized me, and I couldn't help but smile back, though it felt half hearted. I asked for a pair of skates, and he handed them over with ease, no questions asked.

Walking into the arena, I could hear the familiar hum of the ice machine in the distance. There were two people skating on the rink, a man and a woman, moving leisurely, chatting as they circled the ice. As I stood there, watching them, they drifted off toward the stands and finally out of sight, leaving the entire place to me.

I was alone.

Completely alone.

The feeling of solitude was oddly comforting, like the universe was giving me space to reconnect with the person I used to be, the girl who thrived on the ice, who had dreams that went beyond a relationship or the approval of someone else. The arena was mine tonight. No distractions, no noise. Just me and the ice.

I sat down on the bench and laced up my skates, tightening them carefully, just as I’d done a thousand times before. It felt like a ritual, grounding me. When I stood up and took that first step onto the ice, it was like nothing had changed. The cold air brushed against my face as I glided forward, the sound of the blades cutting through the ice was the only noise in the massive space. It felt like slipping back into an old, beloved routine. How could I have abandoned this?

I started skating faster, gaining momentum with each stride. My heart pounded, and for the first time in days, I felt alive. The ice beneath me seemed to fuel my every movement, my body responding as though no time had passed at all. I weaved across the rink, testing my limits, pushing harder and harder. My muscles remembered every motion, every turn, and I couldn’t help but wonder how I could have traded this feeling for something so fleeting, so shallow.

The thought made my stomach churn with regret and anger. I sacrificed so much for someone who betrayed me, who wasn’t even worth the sacrifice in the first place. The realization stung, but it also fueled me, made me more determined.

I thought about the tricks I used to practice, the ones I’d nail after hours of trying and failing. The triple axel came to mind, one of the hardest, but the one I’d obsessed over. Could I still do it?

I skated faster, building up the speed I’d need for the jump, my mind and body trying to sync. I bent my knees and launched myself into the air but the landing was rough, unsteady. I stumbled out of it and nearly fell, my breath hitching in frustration.

"You know you can do it, Y/n" a voice called out, breaking the silence.

I whipped my head around, searching for the source of the voice. There, standing just outside the rink,

Matt.

I blinked, unsure if he was really there or if my mind was playing tricks on me. He was leaning against the barrier, watching me with an expression I couldn’t quite read.

“What.. what are you doing here?” I asked, my voice shaky as I stood up, brushing off the ice.

"I knew you'd be here" Matt says, his voice steady.

"Wait, how did you—" I start to ask, but before I can finish, he cuts me off.

"I know you better than anyone else, Y/n," Matt interrupts, his eyes locked onto mine with a quiet intensity that leaves me speechless.

I shake my head, overwhelmed. How could he possibly say that? How could anyone claim to know me when I don't even know myself anymore? The last few weeks have been a blur of confusion, pain, and revelations that have turned my entire world upside down. I feel like a stranger to myself, piecing together memories that don’t feel like mine.

"You don’t know me, Matt." I say, my voice trembling slightly as I take a step back, trying to create some distance. "Not anymore. I don’t know if i'm the same person I was before."

He looks at me, his face softening, like he understands more than I want to believe he does. "Maybe not" he admits, stepping forward slowly, careful not to push. "But I know the you standing right here, right now. The you who comes to this rink when the world gets too heavy. The you who still feels at home on the ice, even if everything else feels out of control."

His words hit me harder than I expected. The weight of them presses down on me because he’s right. As much as I want to push him away, to tell him he’s wrong, I can’t. Because in this moment, standing here on this rink, in the place where I’ve always felt the most like myself, he sees me. Maybe even more than I see myself.

But then I really deep it, trying to hold back the emotions building up inside of me. I’ve been holding everything in for so long, trying to be strong, trying to figure it all out on my own. But with Matt standing there, looking at me like he can see through all the walls I’ve built, I feel exposed. I don't understand why he’s here though. All he’s done is act cold towards me for the most part. I skate off the rink into the stands, almost in embarrassment.

"I don’t even understand why you’re here, Matt" I finally say, my voice cracking slightly. The words are more vulnerable than I meant them to be, but I can’t help it. I need answers, and I need them now. "What are you doing here?"

For a moment, he doesn’t say anything, just stands there on the edge of the rinks stands, his expression unreadable. The tension in the air is thick, and the silence feels unbearable.

"I’m here because I couldn’t stay away any longer. I need to tell you everything." Matt finally says, his voice quiet but steady. He looks at me, really looks at me this time, and something in his eyes makes my breath catch. "I know you're confused, Y/n, and I don’t blame you. I should’ve been more honest with you from the start, but everything got so messed up."

I stare at him, trying to process what he’s saying, but it feels like my brain is working against me. "But why?" I ask, my voice almost pleading. "Why didn’t you try? Why didn’t you tell me?"

Matt sighs, and for the first time, I see the vulnerability in him, the cracks in the wall he’s been putting up. "Because I thought you deserved better than to have your life thrown into even more chaos. I didn’t want to confuse you or hurt you more than you already were. Everything was my fault.”

"Your fault? I know everything that happened with Alex, thats not your fault Matt." I say, the words heavy as they leave my mouth. My voice is more uncertain than I intended, and I don’t even know if I’m saying it for him or myself. “I’m sorry I didn’t listen to you in the hospital, it was all just so overwhelming. But I'm confused about where you come in. What we were.. I just don’t understand it."

Matt stands still, watching me closely. His face doesn’t give anything away, which only makes this more frustrating.

"I feel this pull to you.." I continue, trying to find the right words, even though they feel like they’re tumbling out awkwardly, "And I don’t know why. I feel stupid because you can't even look at me properly."

I stop, catching my breath. The weight of it all feels suffocating, like I’m drowning in a past I can't fully grasp. My heart beats faster with every second of silence between us. Why isn’t he saying anything?

I take a shaky breath, trying to steady myself. "Why didn’t you fight for us?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper. "Why didn’t you try?"

Matt looks down, and for a moment, I think he’s not going to answer. But then he looks back up at me, his eyes filled with regret. "Because I was scared" he admits. "When you lost your memory, I didn’t know what to do. I thought maybe it was better to keep my distance. You had enough going on, and I didn’t want to make it worse. I had lost you once, I was afraid I was going to lose you again. I blame myself for the accident."

“What accident?” I interrupt, my frustration boiling over. I can feel my hands trembling, my heart racing. “Everyone keeps saying there was an accident, but no one wants to tell me what it is. What happened before? What happened during it?” I take a shaky breath, the words spewing out before I can stop them. “Can someone please just give me the fucking answers?”

Matt’s voice breaks through the silence, heavy with guilt. “Y/n, you were hit by a car.” The words hang in the air, an anchor dragging me down into a sea of confusion.

“What do you mean?” I whisper, feeling the world around me blur as I struggle to grasp what he’s saying.

“We were at a party” he admits, his eyes filled with an agonizing regret. “I should have kept you safe. I was the one who was supposed to be there for you, and I failed.”

“What happened?” My voice trembles as I try to piece it all together.

Matt’s expression darkens, and he takes a shaky breath. “You ran into the street. I tried to get you off the road, but I was too late..”

He stops, his throat tightening as he presses his hands to his face, fighting against the impact of memories. I can see the pain etched across his features, and I want to reach out to him, to reassure him, but I’m frozen, trapped in my own whirlwind of emotions. His words cut deep, and I feel a mix of anger and sadness wash over me. How could he carry this burden alone? I want to scream that it wasn’t just his fault, that I made my choices too.

“Matt, you shouldn’t beat yourself up over this, its not like you were the one driving, you could’ve never prevented that..” I finally get some words out. 

He shakes his head, tears pooling in his eyes. “You should have never been in that situation. If I hadn’t pushed you away.. if I had just told you how I felt instead of running from it, you wouldn’t have been on that road in the first place.”

I take a step back, trying to absorb everything he’s saying. The fragmented pieces of my life start to form a picture, but it’s still so hazy.

“Please, just tell me what happened” I plead, my heart racing. “I need to know. I need to know it all. From whatever we were to the accident. I need to know it all.”

He looked up at me, I could see the sorrow in his eyes as he nodded at me.

"The night we met.. We clicked instantly. It was a double date. You and Alex. Me and Emily.  There was this connection, like we just understood each other. I remember everything about you.. the little things, I remember your fears and that your favourite colour is green."

He runs a hand through his hair, clearly grappling with the weight of what he’s about to tell me. "We had seen eachother a bit after that, in group settings.. I held a party in my place, Emily actually invited you and Alex. Emily was a mess that night, it was almost like you could see the cracks in my relationship with her too. I could see them in yours too. Our bond only grew stronger that night. There was this one night that changed everything in my eyes. Emily asked me to get her purse from your place. You’d been hanging out the night before and she left it in your apartment by mistake. She got invited by Alex to go out to celebrate his captaincy so she needed it. It was the same night Alex got into that fight. When you opened the door, I could tell you’d been crying, and it killed me to see you like that. I thought about you the whole way home. So after I dropped Emily off at the club, I went back to check on you."

He smiles faintly, as if remembering the night. "I brought you back to my place. We all ended up playing Mario Kart together. Me, you, Nick and Chris." He glances away, a shadow of regret crossing his face. "That's why I was so off the other night.. I felt like I was reliving that night again but in all the wrong ways. But that original game night.. Y/n I can’t explain how much comfort I felt just being near you. I would've kissed you that night, Y/n. I wanted to. But then Nick came in, talking about that fight Alex had gotten into, and the moment was gone. I took you to the hospital since that's where Alex was, and the four of us waited there all night."

His voice softens, and he looks away for a moment. " When I left you and Alex at home, Emily gave me hell for being around you. So I had to cut you off. But.. the feelings I had for you didn’t go away. They never did."

I feel a tightness in my chest, as if my heart is trying to process all of this, the weight of it pressing down on me like a storm.

“I should really thank Nick for a lot of this, because the two of you got close really fast, and no matter what I had going on, he still always included you. He invited you to Topgolf with us one night when I was meant to be keeping our distance. He actually overheard Emily give out to me that night about you. Told me I was stupid for listening to her. It was almost as if he knew I had feelings for you then and there, he never was really fond of Emily. But her and Alex were out of the country together on a school trip , our friends Nate and Madi were coming along that night too so it seemed like no big deal. And I knew deep down I wanted to be around you.”

"Being at Topgolf.. I’ll never forget it.." Matt lightly chuckles, “You were swinging the club as if you were playing mini golf.” He breaks out into a laugh. My jaw drops, “Oh my god.. I’m so embarrassed” I say, covering my hands with my face. "Don’t be embarrassed.. It was cute..” Matt continues. “I helped you with it and you swung like a champ straight away. You didn’t win or anything now but I could see the improvements thanks to me.” He grinned. I gave him a light hit on the arm, the feeling of butterflies bulling through my stomach. 

“Chris wasnt ready to go home so soon, so we went to Venice beach..” We locked eyes with eachother hard. I wonder if he knew I was there tonight.

“We were walking alone on the beach, everyone went ahead into the water. It was just the two of us and I loved every second of it. Being by your side again felt.. freeing. I wanted to kiss you so badly that night too, but then Chris had this whole jellyfish thing." He lets out a bitter laugh. "Even then, I couldn’t get enough of you. You opened up to me that night, told me about giving up skating for Alex."

I stare at him, my mind racing as he speaks. These pieces of a past I can’t remember, the fragments of a life that still feel foreign to me.

"I could just picture you on the ice." Matt says softly, his voice full of admiration. "You were so sad you stopped training for the Olympics. I just wanted to see you happy again. So the next night, I rented out this ice rink right here, just for you. And god, Y/n, if you could’ve seen how you lit up that night. I kissed you. That night, I kissed you, and my god was it euphoric. I stayed in your place that night and we were just inseparable since. Going for brunch, hanging out all the time.."

My breath catches in my throat, but Matt looks away again. I cant believe he’s done this all for me. He tries to speak again clearly struggling with what comes next. "It wasn’t just a crush. I cared about you more than I’ve ever cared about anyone. I wanted to protect you, to be there for you.. but I couldn’t even do that right."

I can see the pain in his eyes, the rawness of his confession. The words he’s about to say feel heavy, like a weight hanging between us.

"The night before Alex and Emily came home from Europe, Nick and Chris went to our friend Tara’s party.." he begins, his voice quieter now. "It was just the two of us in my house and you told me that Alex and Emily were cheating on us. I thought that was it. Our way out. I thought we could leave them and be together, I thought it would happen anyway, Youd made it clear you were done with Alex but I know how hard Emily could be, but I was ready, Y/n. I was ready to walk away from Emily and start something real with you."

His words hit me like a punch to the gut. All the confusion I had been feeling, the pull towards him, it suddenly made more sense. 

"But then…” He stops as he reaches in his jean pocket, pulling out a piece of jewellery and handing it to me. An earring, my missing earring. “It must’ve fallen off in my bed when you passed out that night" he said, his voice softening but struggling to get the next sentence out. "You’ve never know this part.. but Emily found it before I could confront her about Alex. She didn’t even give me a chance to explain. She blackmailed me, Y/n. She told me that if I left her, she'd ruin your life. She’d tell Alex everything, twist it, make your life a living hell. I know what shes capable of, so I believed her." Matt’s eyes finally met mine, full of regret. "I didn’t know what else to do. I was a coward. I should’ve walked away, should’ve fought for us right then, but I didn’t. She told me I had to act like nothing ever happened, and that I could never see you again. She made me go to that party with her the night.. I didnt expect you to be there.. Maybe I can give out to Nick for this part of the story since he invited you along to this one.. My world stopped when I spotted you. It was awful. You were so clueless to everything. I knew you say me sitting with Emily. I was torn by what I wanted to do and what I had to do.. I found you in the bathroom.. I told you that what we had was a mistake.. That it was over."

My heart clenched at the memory of his words, even though I couldn’t fully recall them. It was like an emotional scar that hadn’t healed, even if the details were hazy.

"You were devastated, Y/n. I saw it in your eyes. And I’m not going to act like I wasn’t devastated too, even though I had to pretend then." His voice broke again, and he took a shaky breath. "I shattered your heart in that bathroom. And then.. you ran. You ran into the street."

I could see him reliving it, the horror flashing across his face. His hands trembled, and he brought them to his face as if trying to shield himself from the memory.

"I tried to stop you. I tried to yell at you from the balcony.." he whispered. "The last thing I heard you say was that you loved me. I know you were about to say you thought I loved you too, but I cut you off. I told you to get off the road... and then-"

He couldn’t finish the sentence. His breath hitched as he choked back the words, pressing his palms against his face like he was trying to push the pain away.

I stood there, frozen, my thoughts racing, trying to make sense of everything. The accident. The way he’d pushed me away just when its evident I thought we had something real.

"It’s my fault" he whispered, his voice barely audible. "All of it. You were only on that road because I made you believe what we had wasn’t real. But it was, Y/n. It was the realest thing I’ve ever had. I’ve never experienced anything like you. And I’ve been grieving you ever since."

His confession hung heavy in the air, suffocating me with the weight of the truth. All the anger, confusion, and longing I’d felt since waking up in the hospital crashed over me like a tidal wave.

“And I’m so sorry I never fought for you. I know I should’ve, but then Alex appeared in the hospital. And you couldn’t remember me. He was acting like you were still together. You had no memory of us, I caused you enough pain as it was. I didn’t want to make it worse.”

I looked at him, my heart pounding as the reality of his words sank in. Matt's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "I thought I was doing the right thing. I thought it would be easier for you, that you could heal without me dragging you back into the chaos. But I was wrong. I was so wrong."

There was a silence between us, thick with unspoken words and feelings that had been buried under layers of hurt. I could see the regret etched across his face, the guilt weighing heavily on his shoulders.

"I thought I could forget you, that maybe it would make everything simpler," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "But you’re unforgettable."

He stepped closer, the desperation in his eyes mirroring my own. "Y/n, I’ve spent every day since that night wishing I could take it all back. Even how I acted so standoff-ish around you. It’s because I love you. I always have.”

“I want to show you that what we had was real, let you relieve it all. I want to fight for you, if you’ll let me.”

a/n: we have one more part :(

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[alicerosejensen]

Let's go!

Warning: the reader is a college student; age difference; the reader is a little shy

I love Leon and no one will do anything to me for this. So here are some more headcanons:

You met Leon only because you lost the desire of your friends, and as punishment they sent you to chat with this gloomy drunk sitting in an embrace with an expensive bottle of whiskey.

It was really shitty, you drank two more glasses of liquor before you plucked up the courage to sit next to him and say, "Hi, handsome."

Damn, you literally blush after every word you say, and alcohol doesn't help at all. Leon, on the other hand, laughs nervously at your inept attempts at flirting, considering your friends as shitty as possible, since they did this to you by sending you to flirt with a man 10-15 years older. But on the whole, he likes you.

Leon will order you a coffee, because cheap alcohol only makes you worse. However, you're so cute when you blush at a compliment he says.

You have a strange relationship that should have been interrupted a long time ago, but you talk to him on the phone for a long time on various topics.

You are comfortable with him as well as with your friends. Therefore, embarrassment aside! You can talk to him about anything.

His humor can be terrible, just like yours

"I was told that to solve the problem you need to sleep with her, but my problem is you!"

oops, someone drank too much…

Leon wants to be your problem, but not when you're drunk. He doesn't like too much that you drank more than your norm.

You will laugh a lot and make indecent jokes, and in the morning you will be ashamed of your behavior. "Did you really tell him so many vulgarities?"

"You seriously proved to me that my middle name is not Scott, but Sexy Kennedy. Leon Sexy Kennedy."

He really likes it, he wants you to talk about it more often, and not shyly look away.

You're fucked. You cover your face with your hands, begging him to forget about everything you said last night, but he doesn't want to forget about it at all. Moreover, he thinks that his shirts will look sexy as hell on you.

Leon will ask if you want to solve your "problem", or is it better for him to take you home? If you stay, he'll be glad. And yes, his shirts look great on your naked body!

He likes it when you stay with him all day or all weekend. To do this, he specifically buys you a bar of chocolate so that later he can watch you lick your fingers while watching TV

You feel uncomfortable when you notice the gaze fixed on you. Leon clearly has something obscene on his mind, you can see it by his grin. At night he will tell you what it is, or show you…

"Come on, baby, I'm not one of those college guys who, after spending the night with a girl, pretend they don't know her."

However, Leon is happy to spend more than just nights with you. It seems to me that he is quite a homely person. He doesn't mind your things in his house or the books you read while you're with him. In fact, he likes it when you read aloud to him.

He doesn't want to be an unusual "relationship experience" in your life. He's already got enough shit because of work, so he asks you to think about whether you need a relationship with him. He wants to love and be loved in return, so think about it carefully, princess.

If you agree to a relationship with him, he will be immensely happy, but he is unlikely to show it. However, taking care of you will be a priority for him now. Leon is clearly a defensive type.

You'll be his little spoon when you sleep in the same bed with him. Leon will kiss the top of your head and draw contours on your back. You instill in him a forgotten sense of calm that alcohol will never give him.

He likes the idea that he can protect at least one loved one.

So don't be scared when he wakes up at night with the desire to hug you tightly. You'll get used to it very soon, because you know that he has some kind of super-complicated job that he doesn't like to talk about.

His worst nightmare - you were killed or you got infected.

Leon definitely likes to kiss you between the shoulder blades when you're lying on your stomach.

He is so grateful to you for treating his simple wounds. It may be a bruise or a small cut, but the way you tenderly treat the wounds makes his heart flutter. Leon doesn't believe in God, but then why are you his angel?

He understands that you want to have fun with friends from time to time, but please be careful! If you have any problems or someone bothers you, then immediately inform him.

He doesn't have anything against your friends, but he's still worried about you, and he definitely doesn't like that guy…

It's not jealousy! Leon trusts you, but he's also learned to be a good judge of people, so he can't stand some of the people around you

He likes to watch movies with you when you're both wrapped in a blanket and lying on the couch. Even if it's boring, Leon likes being with you, so he's ready to watch your favorite movies/series/shows as much as he wants. But when you fall asleep yourself, he will take you to bed, or maybe he will fall asleep with you.

Maybe someday he'll marry you.

It's okay if you don't want to.

He doesn't want to rush into serious offers, but if you want to move in with him, he'll be happy.

Sometimes he will make fun of you, but more often he will call you by affectionate names. So often that you will begin to think that he has forgotten your real name. Leon will laugh at this, making it clear that he has no problems with his memory.

Leon will gradually open up to you more and more, but don't wait for everything at once. It's hard for him too, and he's not the kind of person who takes out his problems on others. He is ready and willing to take care of you, but prefers to keep to himself what is bothering him.

none of you will ever say it out loud, but Leon puts you above himself. This is a simple truth that makes no sense to discuss. Don't waste your time, because Leon won't change his mind. He loves you and will only love you more because you also love him and care about him.

And yes, he still doesn't trust your friends, although he's glad they made you sit with him that day at the bar.

[differentpostrebel]

Lost and Found: A Pirate's Promise

Chapter 18: Fragile Promises

A/N: We are back at it again with another chapter! Thank you to everyone, who has followed, who has liked the series so far, who has reblogged, commented. I cant wait for you guys to continue reading what else I have in store! I'll also be creating a masterlist soon so that way its more organized for you guys!. We have a surprise guest in this chapter so you dont want to miss this! Chapter 19, will be uploaded tonight as well. And we are getting the showdown! Law vs Vergo and Y/N vs Monet! We even got some Sanji moments in there as well!  But without further ado let's get to it!

Word Count: 5.8K

Sanji X Reader, Sanji x Y/N, One piece X Reader 

Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, chapter 5, chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13,chapter 14, Chapter 15, Chapter 16, chapter 17, Chapter 18 (here)

Sanji POV… 

"I’m not going anywhere... I promise," I murmured, holding Y/N close as she clung to my coat. Seeing her so bruised and battered, her top missing and her wounds still fresh, made my heart ache. I felt a pang of guilt and jealousy knowing I wasn’t there to protect her.

"Y/N... where’s your top?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite the jealousy and concern I felt.

"Oh, that," she began, her voice trembling slightly. "The Yeti Cool Brothers kidnapped Nami and me. I was tied up, and my back was bruised and bleeding. After Traffy rescued us, we went back to the encampment. I gave Chopper the ointment I used during training so my wounds could heal faster. Chopper, who was in your body at the time, helped with the ointment. Then Traffy saw I needed more care and took over. He bandaged me up, but I need to get this tightened again later."

The thought of Chopper and Law seeing her so vulnerable filled me with a mix of jealousy and frustration. Just then, Law’s voice cut through my thoughts.

"Hey, Cook!" Law called, his tone dripping with mockery.

"What now, Traf—" I began, but Law cut me off.

"I’m giving Y/N my coat again," Law said, tossing it toward her. "It’s warmer and should cover her better."

Y/N caught the coat and put it on, visibly relieved but still looking exhausted. "Thanks, Traffy."

"Don’t mention it," Law said, his smirk never fading. "Just doing my part."

I shot Law a heated glare, unable to hide my frustration. "You think you’re so noble, always swooping in like you’re the only one who can help."

Law’s smirk widened. "Well, maybe I actually care about her well-being. Unlike some people who only show up when it’s convenient."

"Convenient?" I snapped, unable to keep the bitterness out of my voice. "You think you’re the only one who cares? What about all the times I’ve been there for her?"

Law’s eyes flashed with irritation. "You were there, but clearly not enough. I’m the one who’s making sure she’s okay now."

With a sudden, almost casual movement, Law activated his Devil Fruit ability. "ROOM," he said, creating a spatial bubble around Y/N. The space shifted, and before I could react, Law pulled Y/N closer to him, his arm wrapped protectively around her.

"Traffy, what are you—" I began, but Law cut me off with a sharp glance.

"Just making sure she’s comfortable," Law said coolly, his eyes locked onto Y/N with a possessive intensity.

Y/N looked up at Law, her eyes tired but grateful. "Traffy... thank you."

Law’s gaze softened as he looked at Y/N. "Don’t mention it. Just making sure you’re alright."

I clenched my fists, my jealousy boiling over. "Yeah, well, don’t think you’re the only one who can play the hero here."

Law’s smirk returned, though his eyes remained locked on Y/N. "You’re just mad because you can’t always be the one saving the day."

As we moved forward, the tension between Law and me was palpable. Our feelings for Y/N created a rivalry that was impossible to ignore, but for now, we had to focus on her safety and well-being. 

Just then, I saw Law’s hand gently cup Y/N’s cheek. My heart clenched as I watched him lean in slowly, his gaze fixed on her with an intensity that made my jealousy flare. Y/N looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and gratitude.

Law’s face was close to hers, and I could see the softness in his expression. He leaned in and placed a tender kiss on her forehead, a gesture that spoke volumes about his feelings.

I couldn’t contain my frustration any longer. "Hey, Traf! Get your hands off her!"

Law’s gaze shifted to me, his eyes narrowing with a mix of irritation and defiance. "And why would I do that, Cook? She needs comfort right now."

"Comfort?" I snapped, trying to control the anger in my voice. "You think you’re the only one who can give her that? Just because you’re here doesn’t mean you have a monopoly on caring for her."

Law’s expression hardened. "Maybe you’re just jealous because you weren’t the one who got to be here for her when she needed it the most."

Before I could retort, I saw Y/N start to make her way back to the first floor. She turned to Law and gave him a warm smile, one that made Law’s cheeks flush slightly. His smirk returned, but there was a softness in his gaze as he watched her leave.

"Alright," Law said, regaining his composure and shifting back to the matter at hand. "As you may notice, the whole island is completely covered in gas, but there is a way out. There's a passage that's completely enclosed, leading to the sea. This lab is massive, which means it has multiple buildings. We’re currently in Building A. Once you pass Building B, you’ll find Building R. Look for a door marked R-66. That passage will lead you to the sea."

He paused, letting the gravity of the situation sink in. "Here’s the deal: you all have 2 hours to escape, or you’ll die. As Law turned to head towards another passage in the lab, he cast one last glance back at Y/N. A sly smirk played on his lips as he called out, "Y/N, you stay safe out there! I’ll be sure to have a repeat of our session just in case your wounds need tending."

The comment made my blood boil. I clenched my fists, barely restraining myself. His smirk was infuriating, especially with the way he was so casually referring to their intimate moments.

Y/N’s cheeks flushed slightly at Law’s words, but she managed a weak smile. "Thanks, Traffy. I appreciate it." 

Law gave her a final nod before disappearing down the passage. I watched him go, my jealousy simmering beneath the surface.

Y/N POV.. 

To say that the interaction between Sanji and Law was going to be peachy was an understatement. The tension between them was thick, and I felt it weighing heavily on my already exhausted body. I was emotionally and mentally drained, barely holding it together. When Law used Room to separate me from Sanji, it reminded me of the chaotic moments back at Sabaody.

What really threw me off was Law’s kiss on the forehead and his slick comment about our "repeat session." His words made my face flush with heat, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of embarrassment and amusement. Sure, he had tended to my wounds, but the way he spoke about it made it sound like something far more intimate. I chuckled softly to myself, thinking that maybe I should tone down the flirting... but then again, where would the fun in that be?

After grabbing my sword, which I had dropped earlier, I turned to see Zoro approaching me. His usual stoic expression softened as he saw me, and he enveloped me in a warm hug.

"Hey, Y/N," Zoro said, his voice gentle but filled with concern. "You alright? You look like you’ve been through hell and back."

I managed a small smile despite my fatigue. "Just about. It’s been a rough day, but I’ll be okay. Thanks for asking."

Zoro gave me a reassuring squeeze before stepping back.

“You know Zoro, after today I might just take your offer on that tall cup of Sake.” I said. 

Zoro raised an eyebrow, a hint of a grin playing on his lips. "Oh? You remember that offer, huh? I’ll hold you to it. We can get a drink after this mess is sorted out."

I chuckled softly, feeling a small flicker of relief. "Definitely. I think I’ll need it after everything that’s happened."

As Smokey’s orders reverberated through the lab, the urgency in the air was palpable.

“Listen up, men!” Smokey’s commanding voice cut through the chaos. “We’re searching for missing children and then finding the door labeled R-66. According to Law, it’ll lead us to a harbor where we can escape Punk Hazard. Move out!”

The G-5 soldiers responded with a determined "Understood!" and swiftly began their search.

Nami took charge, organizing everyone with practiced efficiency. “We’re splitting up to find the kids and head to R-66. Let’s go!”

As we prepared to head to the door, Sanji’s hand reached out, grabbing my wrist with a firm yet gentle grip. His eyes were filled with a mixture of intense worry and frustration.

“Y/N,” he said, his voice trembling slightly with emotion. “I need you to be careful. This place... it’s not safe. I can’t bear the thought of something happening to you.”

I looked up at him, my heart aching at the sight of his concern. “Sanji..” 

Sanji’s eyes searched mine, his expression pained. “It’s… It’s... I care about you more than I can put into words. Seeing you hurt, or in danger—it tears me apart. I don’t want to lose you.”

I felt tears welling up in my eyes at his heartfelt words. “Sanji, I care about you too. Your worry means everything to me. I promise I’ll be as careful as I can.”

Sanji’s grip on my wrist tightened for a moment before he let go, his face a mix of relief and lingering concern. “Just... please, be safe. I need to know you’re alright. More than anything.”

I nodded, feeling a lump in my throat. “I promise. I’ll be careful.”

Sanji gave me a final, lingering look, his eyes full of unspoken emotions. “Stay safe, Y/N.”

As Zoro and I moved toward the doors, a sudden commotion drew our attention. The G-5 soldiers had surrounded us, their weapons at the ready. Without hesitation, I sheathed my sword and clenched my right hand, connecting it with my left palm, sending a surge of electricity crackling through the air.

The energy built up, crackling and sparking around my right hand as I prepared to strike. The tension was palpable, and I could feel the intensity of the moment, my heartbeat quickening in anticipation. Zoro, sensing the shift in the air, tightened his grip on his swords, ready to spring into action at any moment.  

Just as I prepared to strike, Zoro suddenly dropped his swords, his expression fierce. "Zoro?!" I exclaimed, confused and alarmed.

“Hey, Luffy!” Zoro shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos.

“What’s mosshead doing now? This better be good,” Sanji muttered, his concern evident despite his frustration.

“Luffy, you hear me?” Zoro continued, his tone urgent. “You’ve got to get it together! We’re in the New World! The stakes are high!”

I couldn’t help but smirk at Zoro’s commanding tone. Sanji joined in, a grin spreading across his face. “Just what we needed—a kick in the ass.”

Luffy, looking both surprised and somewhat abashed, scratched the back of his head. “Sorry about that. It won’t happen again.” His grin returned, more determined this time. With Luffy heading off toward Caesar, Smoker followed close behind, leaving Tashigi with the G-5 soldiers.

Suddenly, alarms began blaring throughout the lab. “What’s happening now?” I muttered, just as a G-5 soldier lunged at me with a blade. I quickly sent a shock through him, causing him to drop his weapon and stagger back. The other G-5 soldiers, startled, began cocking their guns again.

Before they could take aim, Zoro stepped forward, his voice commanding, “Stand down.” The authority in his tone was unmistakable as he grabbed the hilts of his swords. The Samurai and Brook readied themselves as well, preparing to strike. In unison, they launched attack after attack, slicing through obstacles and creating a clear passage.

“Y/N, get on,” Sanji called out, extending his hand toward me as he mounted Brownbeard’s back. His expression was serious, his concern for me evident. “We’ve got this, now let’s go find those kids.” says Nami, as we begin to hurry to the door. 

“Yeah!” Usopp echoed, determination in his voice.

Just as Zoro was about to unleash another attack to clear the way, Tashigi suddenly appeared, blocking his path with her sword. “Tashigi?” I said, surprised to see her intervene.

“But Captain, why?” one of the G-5 soldiers asked, confusion evident in his voice.

Zoro smirked, recognizing the familiar face in front of him. “Why hello, there, copycat. Captain now, huh? So why don’t you want to fight me?” His tone was teasing, but the challenge was clear as he held his stance, ready for anything.

Tashigi glanced back and forth between Zoro and me, her expression torn. “I see now where you get that smart mouth of yours, Y/N,” she said, her tone a mix of frustration and reluctant admiration.

I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Guilty as charged,” I replied, trying to lighten the mood despite the tension in the air.

After a moment of internal conflict, Tashigi broke away, turning to her men with determination. “Everyone, leave! Now!” she ordered, her voice firm and unyielding. The G-5 soldiers hesitated for a moment before following her command, retreating toward the doors.

Seeing the opportunity, we urged Brownbeard to hurry. “The only way out of this building is to escape now,” Tashigi shouted, her urgency palpable. “Caesar is trying to fence us in!”

We barely had time to process her words when a gunshot echoed through the lab, shattering the tense silence. The shot had pierced a wall, causing the poison gas from outside to start seeping in. The deadly mist crept toward us, its effects immediate as some of the G-5 soldiers began to turn to stone.

“RUN! NOW!” Tashigi yelled, her voice laced with desperation as she tried to get her men to move. We sprinted toward the sliding door, the gas closing in fast. Just as the door was about to shut, a few of the G-5 men grabbed their captain, throwing her over the threshold to safety.

“Let go of me! Our men are out there! We need to help them!” Tashigi cried, struggling against the soldiers holding her back.

“No can do, Captain,” one of the men said, his voice strained with emotion. “Please, just let me go!” Tashigi pleaded, tears brimming in her eyes as she fought to return to her men.

“Excellent Marines! Thank you! Our captain is safe; you’ve done the Navy proud! We’ll take it from here,” another soldier said, his voice steady as the door finally shut, sealing off the gas—and their fate.

We watched in silence, the weight of what had just happened settling heavily on us. The lab was filled with the quiet sound of Tashigi’s muffled sobs as she struggled against the reality of the situation, her tears a stark contrast to the grim resolve of the soldiers who had sacrificed themselves for her safety.

“Brownbeard, let’s move,” Nami said firmly, as we began to leave Tashigi and the G-5 behind. Robin had rejoined us, her presence a small comfort in the chaos.

“I can’t believe he’d destroy his own lab,” I said, shaking my head in disbelief. “He must be desperate to wipe us all out.”

“We may have escaped, but it doesn’t mean we’re safe yet,” Usopp said, taking off his coat. “We need to find those children and get to Gate R-66 fast.”

“Agreed,” Sanji added, his tone grim as he took a drag from his cigarette. “The sooner we get out of here, the better. I’ve had enough of this island.”

I lay back on Brownbeard’s back, wincing as pain shot through my leg. “Damn Vergo,” I muttered, clutching my leg.

Sanji noticed my discomfort and immediately knelt beside me, his expression turning from concern to determination. He carefully examined the damage on my leg, his brow furrowing as he took in the extent of Vergo's brutality.

“This is worse than I thought,” he said, his voice tight with frustration. “You’re hurt badly. I should’ve been here to stop this from happening.”

He took a deep breath and grabbed some cloth from his coat pocket, swiftly tearing it into strips. His hands worked with a focused urgency as he began to bandage my leg, his movements precise and firm. “Hold still,” he instructed, his voice gentle but insistent. “I’m going to do what I can to ease the pain and make it more manageable.”

As he wrapped the cloth around my leg, he looked up at me with a mix of worry and resolve. “I should have protected you better,” he said, his voice tinged with guilt. “I know I can’t undo what happened, but I’ll make sure you’re taken care of. We’ll get through this.”

Despite the pain, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. “Sanji, thank you,” I said softly, touched by his dedication. “I appreciate everything you’re doing.”

Sanji finished bandaging my leg, giving it a gentle pat. “We’re getting out of here,” he said firmly. “And once we’re safe, I’ll make sure you get the help you need. Just hold on a little longer.”

Before I could respond, Zoro shouted, “Hey, can’t you run any faster!” to Brownbeard, who was struggling under the weight of everyone on his back.

“Are you kidding?!” Brownbeard retorted, gasping for breath. “You guys are getting heavy! When did all of you get on my back?”

“You’ll have to forgive us, Brownbeard,” Zoro said with a shrug. “We don’t have much of a choice.”

“Really?! It better be a good one!” Brownbeard huffed.

“It is,” Zoro said, his tone deadpan. “We’ve been running all day, and now we don’t want to stop.”

I couldn’t help but giggle at the interaction. The levity was a welcome distraction from the pain in my leg.

“That’s a horrible excuse! Get off my back!” Brownbeard grumbled, his frustration evident.

The Samurai, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. “Good sir, your name is Brownbeard, correct?”

“Yes,” Brownbeard replied, still running. “Why?”

“It pains me to ask this,” the Samurai continued, “but my son has been taken, and I need to rescue him as soon as possible.”

“Huh?? Your son?” Brownbeard asked, clearly taken aback.

“Yes,” the Samurai confirmed. “I simply need your assistance because I am too tired to run.”

“You guys are horrible!” Brownbeard complained, shaking his head. “Get off my back!”

“I’m feeling a bit hungry,” Brook said cheerfully. “Brownbeard, do you have any snacks stored back here?”

“Ohh, I’d kill for some food right about now,” I added, rubbing my stomach. “And a drink too.”

Sanji’s eyes lit up with determination. “Ohhh, my goddess is hungry! Don’t you worry, I’ll whip you up a meal that will put you back to health in no time. No need for Law or Chopper to come and take care of you.”

Zoro raised an eyebrow and chuckled. “Seriously, Sanji? You’re thinking about cooking right now? We’re in the middle of a crisis!”

Sanji shot him a sharp look. “Well, someone has to make sure Y/N’s taken care of. It’s not like you’re offering any help.”

“Help? I’m carrying a sword and fighting off enemies while you’re planning your next culinary masterpiece!” Zoro retorted, crossing his arms. “Besides, it’s not like you’re the only one worried about Y/N.”

Sanji’s face reddened, his concern clearly turning into frustration. “Of course I’m worried! I’m trying to make sure Y/N is okay while you’re just standing around with your usual attitude!”

Brook chuckled at the exchange. “You two are always good for a laugh, even when things are tough.”

The sound of Brook’s laughter managed to pull a genuine smile from me, and I let out a soft chuckle despite my exhaustion.

Sanji suddenly stood up, his expression serious. “Guys, I’ll be right back. Mosshead, take care of Y/N.”

“Wait, Sanji, where are you—” I started to ask, but before I could finish, Sanji leaped into the air, using his Sky Walk technique to disappear into the distance.

“I wonder why he left?” I said, glancing at Zoro and Usopp.

“He probably sensed an enemy nearby,” Usopp suggested, his tone thoughtful.

“Ohhh, you’re right,” I murmured, watching Sanji’s retreating figure.

“Yeah, he’s got a sixth sense for these things,” Zoro said, his eyes scanning the surroundings. “Just stay alert.”

I nodded, my gaze following the path Sanji had taken. “Take care of yourself, Sanji,” I whispered, hoping he’d hear me somehow despite the distance.

Sanji’s POV… 

How dare that... that... egotistical asshole try to put the moves on my Y/N! The memory of Law’s smug face only fueled my anger. Once we get out of here, I won’t go easy on him. But what matters most right now is that I have my love back.

Seeing Y/N like this, bruises marking her beautiful skin, dried blood matted in her hair, her lip busted open—it tore me apart inside. I wasn’t there to stop this... I wasn’t there to protect you! The guilt gnawed at me, a bitter taste in my mouth. Yet here you are, looking at me with such grace, such love... I truly don’t deserve someone like you, Y/N.

When Y/N muttered, “Damn Vergo,” struggling to put weight on her injured leg, it felt like a knife to my heart. I couldn’t stand to see her in pain. I moved closer, the concern in my chest growing heavier.

“Let me see,” I said, my voice firm, but laced with the worry I couldn’t hide. I knelt down, taking in the sight of the dark purple bruise, the swelling on her right leg. It’s worse than I thought... Frustration bubbled up inside me, mixing with the guilt I carried. “You’re hurt badly...” I muttered, my voice thick with regret. “I should’ve done more for you.”

With shaking hands, I pulled out some cloth from inside my coat pocket, tearing off pieces to use as a makeshift bandage. As I started wrapping her leg, I whispered, “I swear, Y/N, I’ll never let anything like this happen to you again. I’ll protect you, no matter what.”

I finished bandaging her leg, giving it a gentle pat before looking up at her. The concern in my eyes was met with a soft, reassuring smile from Y/N, but it wasn’t enough to ease the guilt gnawing at me. As we continued our journey to rescue the children and get the hell out of Punk Hazard, a sudden shift in the air caught my attention. I paused, listening intently. It was faint, but unmistakable—a woman’s tears.

I must help! The thought was immediate, instinctual. I couldn’t ignore a lady in distress, not when she needed me.

“Guys, I’ll be right back,” I said, my voice firm with resolve. “Mosshead, take care of Y/N.”

Zoro grumbled something under his breath, but before Y/N could protest, I was already in motion. "Wait, Sanji, where are you..." her voice trailed off as I left the group, skywalking through the air with a singular focus—finding and helping the woman in need. Nothing else mattered in that moment. I’d find her, make sure she was safe, and then return to Y/N and the others. I wasn’t going to let anyone suffer if I could do something about it.

As I continued my way through the corridors, the distant cries of a woman grew louder, leading me right to the source. "Bingo!" I murmured, honing in on the sound. "I hear a lady in need of my help!" Without hesitation, I launched a powerful kick, sending the man who was causing her harm flying into a nearby wall. I landed gracefully, standing tall with determination etched on my face. Pulling out my cigarette, I lit it with a practiced flick, taking a slow drag before blowing out a puff of smoke.

"I heard the heart-breaking sound of a woman’s tears," I declared, finally coming face to face with the poor lady. But before I could say more, an alarm began blaring, its shrill noise echoing through the halls. "Crap, not this again!" I cursed under my breath, as the G-5 men around us scrambled to retreat, leaving me alone with this scumbag.

The man, still dazed from my kick, looked up at me with a sneer. "You’re a pirate," he spat. "Why are you helping a bunch of Marines?"

"Because you’re not supposed to hit ladies, scumbag," I shot back, my voice low and filled with menace. "Didn’t your parents ever teach you that?"

"Ladies, huh?" He mocked, a twisted grin spreading across his face. "Then I should’ve done more to the Princess. How’s her right leg doing?"

His words hit me like a ton of bricks, realization dawning on me in an instant. "Vergo!" I snarled, my hands clenching into fists. This was the scum who touched my Y/N!

He saw the recognition in my eyes and relished in it. "She’s a feisty one, let me tell you," he continued, taunting me. "I just couldn’t keep my hands off her. Would’ve done more if we were alone in a room."

Rage surged through me, hotter than any fire. I could feel my blood boiling, every muscle in my body tensing with the overwhelming urge to beat this bastard into the ground. "You’re going to regret ever laying a hand on her," I growled, my voice trembling with barely controlled fury.

This wasn’t just about defending a lady anymore—this was personal. This was for Y/N. And I wasn’t going to hold back.

Vergo sneered, unfazed by my anger. "I don't have time for your mortal platitudes," he spat, launching a barrage of kicks that I met with my own. Each strike reverberated through the corridor, the sheer force of our blows shaking the walls around us.

"What's a Straw Hat doing helping us?" one of the G-5 men muttered, watching the battle in disbelief.

"You saved my life," the woman—Tashigi, I realized—said, her voice filled with gratitude despite the chaos.

But there was no time to respond as Vergo pressed his attack, his moves precise and brutal. I countered with equal ferocity, determination blazing in my eyes. With a swift pivot, I unleashed my Flanchet Full Power Strike, my leg igniting with intense flames as I drove the blow into Vergo’s chest, sending him crashing through the wall once again.

"Holy crap, he's strong," one of the G-5 men exclaimed, their awe clear in their voices.

But I wasn’t done yet. Not by a long shot. This fight was far from over, and I was going to make sure Vergo regretted every single moment he spent laying a hand on Y/N.

"We gotta give him some backup, Captain!" a few of the Marines shouted, their voices trembling with urgency.

"What are you morons doing?!" I yelled, noticing the door sealing the gas was now opening. "Caesar wants to seal you up to poison you! See what I mean!"

Just then, Vergo stood up, his expression unreadable as he prepared for another round. "Well, would you look at that," I muttered, realizing what was going on. "You've got metal under your skin. Y/N never had a chance," I whispered, the rage bubbling up inside me again.

"Quit interfering," Vergo growled, launching himself at me once more.

I met his attack head-on, my foot connecting with his body in a powerful kick. But suddenly, I felt a sharp crack in my leg. "Crap," I hissed, quickly dodging Vergo’s relentless assault, evading each of his strikes by mere inches.

"Black-Leg, the door is closing fast! Get out of there!" one of the Marines shouted, panic in his voice.

I managed to break away from Vergo just in time, but not before noticing some of the Marines lying motionless on the ground. "Crap!" I cursed, rushing over to them. "Hey! Stay with me!"

Just then, an announcement blared over the speakers, "Law made it to the factory room! The traitor Trafalgar Law made it to the factory room!" The announcement cut off as the door closed, trapping the gas inside.

I barely managed to escape with the two Marine officers in tow, leaping into the air and calling down, "Hey! Everyone made it!" I said, my tone lighter as I spotted Tashigi. "Especially you, Tashigi!" I added, with a bit of a flirtatious edge.

"Keep kicking ass, Black-Leg! Yeah, you rock!" the G-5 Marines cheered.

"I don’t care about you!" I shot back, dropping the two Marines unceremoniously on the ground. "Ladies only!"

One of the soldiers, his tone concerned, offered, "We could give you first aid if you need it?"

"Shut up! If it’s not a thank-you kiss from your captain, I don’t want to hear it!" I retorted, lighting a cigarette with a flick of my lighter. As I exhaled, I muttered to myself, "I got lucky—that kick could have destroyed me." My mind wandered back to Y/N. "That’s the same armament Haki that injured Y/N’s right leg."

Turning to the Marines, I noticed one of them pale and trembling. "Well, I never met the guy, but he turned pale and ran off. Besides, he’s got hell to pay after what he did to my Y/N."

"Anyway, we should get moving," I continued, my tone shifting back to urgency. "We have to save those kids."

And with that, Tashigi, the G-5 men, and I began running, determined to find the children and make it out of this hellhole alive.

Doflamingo POV…

"So, Law is going after SAD," I said, hearing the news from my transponder snail.

"With this development, there's no doubt he has betrayed us," said Vergo.

"I see," I replied, laughing at the whole scheme. "Well, can't say I'm shocked, but that's some gratitude. Treated him like a brother, and this is the thanks I get," I said, lounging on my sofa. "He made it to the manufacturing room, Vergo?"

"Yes, sir."

"He's also fancied a girl here, a 'princess,' if you will," said Vergo.

"Is that so?" I muttered, intrigue sparking within me.

"She's quite a fighter, and she's feisty as hell," Vergo whistled. "I still regret not taking her to a room alone."

Just then, Baby 5 came crashing through the window, glass shattering around her. She stood in front of me, gun pointed directly at my chest, tears welling in her eyes.

"I’ve heard rumors about a 'Princess'... Is she the one who’s captured his heart? Tell me, Doffy! Says Baby 5. Baby 5 cried, her voice trembling as she lowered the gun slightly.

I ignored her cries, dismissing her completely as I turned back to Vergo. "Misfortune never comes alone," I mused, a wicked grin spreading across my face. "Then his misfortune will be my doing."

I threw my head back and laughed, the sound echoing through the room as Baby 5 stood there, torn between anger and sorrow. I could feel her desperation, but it was irrelevant to me. Law had crossed a line, and if he thought he could get away unscathed, he was more of a fool than I imagined.

Y/N POV… 

"You know, this dragon doesn’t seem like a runt at all," says Zoro, now lying beside me. Turns out the dragon from before—yeah, it was drugged up, and now the effects have worn off, revealing its true potential.

"Indeed," I replied to Zoro, watching the dragon’s fierce movements.

"Will you two quit it and do something!" Usopp shouted, desperate as the dragon breathed fire dangerously close to us.

"Can’t, I’m on watch duty," Zoro said, casually pointing at me.

"And I’m trying to recover," I added with a smirk.

"You're not helping, Y/N!" Usopp exclaimed, his voice a mix of frustration and fear. I couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation.

"Fear not, my friends! I have a score to settle with this dragon, and I shall protect you!" declared the samurai—Kin’emon, as I had learned his name. "By the might of my sword, this dragon shall be vanquished!"

"Not so fast!" interrupted Brook, stepping forward with his sword drawn. "This dragon and I also have a score to settle!"

"Ohhh, are we getting a show too?" I teased, leaning back slightly. "This is when snacks would have come in handy."

"And booze," Zoro agreed, a glint of amusement in his eyes.

The tension in the air was palpable, but amidst it all, I couldn’t help but chuckle at our little group’s dynamic. The dragon roared again, and while the others prepared to fight, Zoro and I simply exchanged a knowing glance, savoring the chaotic yet oddly familiar atmosphere.

"But, Brook, you just met the dragon today?" I said, raising an eyebrow.

"True," Brook admitted, "but it looked like it was going to eat me! Then it turned away like I was some bag of bones! It’s accurate, but still hurts!"

"There, there, pal, it's okay," Usopp said, trying to comfort Brook from the sting of the dragon's rejection, patting him on the back as Brook sniffled dramatically.

The sight of Usopp consoling a skeleton about being rejected by a dragon was too much, and I couldn’t help but burst out laughing. Even Zoro let out a low chuckle beside me, the absurdity of the situation taking the edge off the tension.

"Only us," I muttered, shaking my head as the samurai and Brook readied themselves for their showdown with the dragon. "Only us."

Just then, Nami released her Thunder Trap, shocking the dragon with a powerful jolt of electricity. The dragon roared in pain, and neither Kin'emon nor Brook managed to vanquish the beast.

"Well done, breast band girl! You're skilled in the ninja arts, I see," said Kin'emon, nodding approvingly.

Turning towards Kin'emon, I clenched my right hand, a surge of protective anger welling up inside me. "Nami, want me to—"

"No, Y/N, it’s okay," Nami interjected, her voice calm and reassuring.

I slowly unclenched my hand, taking a deep breath to steady myself. Just then, Usopp stepped forward, launching his Special Attack: Raposa. The dragon’s senses were disoriented as the attack hit, causing it to thrash about in confusion.

"What?! The long-nose man can conjure sorcery too?" Kin'emon exclaimed in amazement.

"What did you call me?!" Usopp shouted back, indignant at the "long-nose" remark.

Then Robin joined the fray, her calm voice cutting through the chaos. "Cien Fleur: Quatro Mano, Hold." Giant hands sprouted from the ground, grabbing hold of the dragon and forcing it down.

"Are you all powerful ninjas?" Kin'emon gasped, running forward with Brook, both eager to finally vanquish the dragon.

Zoro and I exchanged a look, stifling our laughter as the scene unfolded.