#dolly miracle

[clarkes-and-god]

"Farris, honey?"

"What is it?"

"You seem upset, is everything ok?"

"I'm not upset! I just thought you were having a boy, that's all."

"Honey, I know you were hoping for a boy, but I'm sure having a baby girl is going to be wonderful."

"Maybe for you. I've always wanted a son, I could teach about the world, and being a man. What am I supposed to do with a girl?"

"You're going to be her daddy, and she'll look up to you too, you know?"

"It's not the same. I wanted a boy I could pass the name to, and teach how to fish, and play golf with me. I can't do any of that with a girl."

"My dad did a ton of stuff with me and my sisters. Charlotte loves going to watch football with him, and he taught me how to drive and walked me down the aisle. You'll still be able to do stuff with her."

"Mira, I know! You just don't get it. Can you just shut up for a second and leave me alone? Stop trying to force me to be excited about this."

"Fine."

[tunamayuuu]

sketches in between schoolwork

[hanktalkin]

Nothing’s going to beat today when I opened up the moonlantern and a second, smaller moonlantern came out

[brigid-faye]

Art by Casey Landerkin

Imbolc (or St Brigid’s Day) celebrates the beginning of spring and the return of the light. Brigid is a Celtic goddess of fire, renewal and fertility. It’s about the promise of renewal and hope for the coming growing season.

[msmk11]

My T**s Ruin the Outfit

Poly!Marauders x non-binary!reader (short fic)

CW: Gender dysphoria; angst: fluff; hurt/comfort

Summary: Your boyfriends find you having a melt down about clothes. But really, it’s not about clothes at all.

Author’s Note: I’m not sure how this idea came to mind, but once I thought it, I had to write it. Since I go by she/they the struggle to find gender affirming clothes is really hard sometimes 😭 especially with tits. So ig this is really self-insert heavy, but I also hopes it brings comfort to those who feel similarly.

Remus was less than pleased to find you sprawled out on the bed, face down in the pillows.

“Dove, what are you doing?” he sighed, “You know we need to leave in ten minutes.”

“I’m not going,” you mumbled.

Remus assumed today of all days was when you decided to be a brat, and he was not going to have it. Tonight was supposed to be the first time in months that your entire friend group was going to be able to get together. Between Mary and Lily, Marlene and Dorcas, Regulus and Barty, and you four, it was nearly impossible to make plans. But, by some miracle, tonight was the night, and Remus was not about to miss out because of your attitude.

“Dove,” Remus said with a low, warning tone, “I’m not gonna say it again.”

You only grumbled out another no, and Remus felt his patience wearing thin. Just as he was about to force you up and moving, James wondered into the room, looking particularly delectable in one of his faded rugby shirts that hugged his biceps, and blue jeans.

Though James was occasionally oblivious, he immediately noticed Remus’ tense jaw and your distressed body language.

“What’s going on here?” James asked carefully.

“Dovey here insists that they’re no longer going with us,” Remus said gruffly.

James looked at Remus confused. Out of everyone, you had been the most excited for this night. While you loved your boys, you also dearly missed your best friends- Lily, Mary, Marlene, and Dorcas. You had been chattering excitedly for days about all that you four needed to catch up on- old gossip, haircut advice, and some of your shared favorite musicians.

Though Remus’ temper sometimes prevented him from seeing it, James’ cool demeanor allowed him to quickly realize that something was obviously wrong. James gently sat down on the bed beside you and started to rub small, soothing circles on your back.

“Angel,” he asked quietly, “why don’t you want to go anymore? You���ve been looking forward to it for days.”

You didn’t respond verbally, but James noticed a slight shaking in your shoulders. Ever so carefully, James grabbed your hips and shifted you onto your side to face him. Before you could hide away again, James noticed your red, teary eyes.

“Angel,” he cooed sadly.

Remus looked to James with a perplexed expression and mouthed, “what is it?”

“They’re crying,” James mouthed quietly.

All of the tension left Remus quickly and was replaced by worry. He immediately felt guilty for assuming the worst and shuffled over to the bed, assuming a seat on your other side. While rubbing small circles on your hip Remus asked, “Can you sit up for us dove and tell us what’s wrong?”

You begrudgingly obliged, though you remained attached to James as you did so.

“Guys? Are you ready? We need to be leaving no-“

Sirius stood in the doorway, slack-jawed, “DOLLY? What’s wrong?” He immediately rushed to crouch at your feet beside the bed.

All three pairs of eyes looked at you with so much care, each of them comforting you with gentle pets and rubs.

“I- I” you blubbered, “I have nothing to wear.”

That was the last thing any of them expected you to say because 1) you didn’t usually put so much care into your outfits 2) even if you did you didn’t usually get emotional over it and 3) you had more than plenty of clothes to wear- not just of your own but of your three boyfriends’.

“Angel, you have tons of clothes in the closet to choose from. And ours too,” James said gently.

“And if you’re having trouble picking something, doll, you know I can help you pick something out,” Sirius added

This only made you start to cry harder and your three boyfriends shared looks of mixed concern and confusion.

“You just- you don’t understand,” you said through hiccups.

“Then help us to, dove,” Remus told you, “we can’t help if you don’t talk to us.”

You tried to take a few deep breaths, so that you could actually express what you were feeling, “It’s just. None of my clothes fit right on me. At least, not the way I want them too. My tits just, ruin the outfit.”

Realization passed through all of them then. This wasn’t about clothes at all- not really, at least. Almost a year ago, you had come out to your boyfriends as nonbinary. They, of course, were so loving and supportive and tried to help you feel comfortable in your body in any way possible. You’d gotten a binder, bought some new clothes, and changed your hair, but when gender dysphoria hit, there was not much they could do to comfort you.

“Oh sweetheart,” Sirius said with a sigh, “I’m sorry. Did you try your binder?”

You shook your head with a frown, “no. But I don’t wanna wear it. It hurts after awhile.”

James pulled you more tightly into his side and kissesdyour head, “what can we do, angel?”

You only shrugged your shoulders and sighed.

“Why don’t you let Sirius and I choose something for you dove, while Jamie cuddles you. That sound good?” Remus asked you kindly.

“Okay.”

Sirius and Remus got up and disappeared into your shared closet. James, in the mean time, pulled you onto his lap and wrapped his arms around you tightly. He peppered kisses across your face and whispered sweet nothings into your ear, which made you giggle in spite of yourself. After a few minutes, Remus and Sirius emerged, clothes in hand.

“Alright doll, why don’t you try this on?”

Sirius handed you one of your favorite sports bras and the biggest of Remus’ sweaters- in your favorite color too. You weren’t sure why you hadn’t thought to try a sports bra earlier- the next best thing to a binder- but you supposed your emotions prevented you from clear thinking. You stayed in James’ lap while you quickly peeled off the t-shirt you were wearing and wrestled on the sports bra. While it didn’t entirely hide your tits, it certainly flattened your chest a little. Paired with Remus’ sweater, that was much baggier on you, your tits almost disappeared. As you looked down at your fairly flat chest you felt much more at ease. You shuffled over to the mirror and look at your appearance. Though the gender dysphoria was not entirely gone, you felt a lot better than before. And with your supportive, loving boyfriends by your side all night, you knew everything would be alright.

[loveshotzz]

A sneak peek 🌻

[This snippet takes place after your first night back in Hawkins, the morning after a party that Steve had to take a very drunk you and Robin home from. The morning after some things were said that you don’t remember 😌]

📻 fic playlist

Birds chirp loudly, mocking the headache that's turned into something more annoying than painful after a handful of ibuprofen. The sticky air is still suffocating even in a pair of black biker shorts and an oversized loose fitting tee, while the sun shines golden against the cerulean sky without a cloud insight to hide you from its light.

The heat warming off its rays makes beads of sweat start to collect at the crown of your head and the nape of your neck, while the incline Eddie’s spinning auto body sign sits on top of threatens to take your breath away. Unwanted thoughts of Steve Harrington keep your pace quick, stewing over the last twenty four hours and everything it’s unraveled.

The small parking lot is empty, the toe of your sneaker kicking small rocks as you cross it. The double garage doors are open, Metallica’s Seek and Destroy echoing loudly, tugging up the corners of your lips. Your Chevrolet Caprice is the only car semi lifted in the air with a pair navy coverall clad legs underneath it.

Opening your mouth, Eddie’s name dies on your tongue before you have a chance to shout it, clocking him and his wild curls sitting in the glass office inside. Those big brown eyes meet yours from across the way, and a dimple filled grin cracks wide across his face as he stands up.

“Glad to see you’re alive princess.” He teases, stepping out of his glass case with coveralls that are clean today, not the stained mess they were last night.

“Honestly, it’s a miracle, but there’s no saying no to Robin, you know that.” You laugh, confused eyes darting to the large boots under your car that don’t seem to react to the sound of your voice.

“Trust me, I heard all about your first night back home. In fact my shop opened thirty minutes late because of it,” he chuckles, crossing his arms over his chest as he leans against the open metal frame where the door should be. Faded bats that you remember when they were fresh dance across his arm with his movements.

“Wait, what?” You ask, confusion pinching your brows together right as the mysterious pair of legs start pushing out whoever’s under your car.

“I didn’t get back to my place till almost four in the morning after getting you two home and in bed,” Steve Harrington emerges flashing you his million dollar smile as he sits up on the dolly, the sleeves of his own coveralls tied tight around his waist and hair wild like he’d just rolled out of bed.

“I slept through my alarm.”

The immediate glare that hardens your face when you see him has Eddie's eyes light up with obvious amusement.

“What are you doing here? And why are you touching my car?” You snap, trying to push the worries about what you look like deep under the irritation and the distraction that begs to steal your anger with his arms on full display like this. Or how the patch of chest hair that peeks out the top of his tank top shines with sweat.

“I work here,” Steve snorts like it’s the most obvious conclusion, because, well, it is, “and I volunteered to look at it, Eddie’s got his hands full.”

That was a lie, he begged him.

“Since when do you know anything about cars?” You snort, making him roll his eyes, pushing himself off the ground.

It’s a struggle to hold his gaze when he stands at full height, biceps flexing with his movements practically daring you to look. He pulls out a faded maroon rag from his pocket and starts wiping off the fresh black from his hands that’s already stained under his nail beds. The hard bottoms of his work boots making their way across the cement floors of the garage.

“There’s a lot you don’t know about me anymore, that’s what happens when someone leaves for five years.” Steve antagonizes, stopping just close enough for you to smell how the cedar of his cologne mixes with the sweet bitterness of the oil that seems to find a way to leave its mark on every surface in here. Including him.

“I’m going to finish balancing the books, why don’t you tell her the good news first and then the bad news,” Eddie pours ice over the tension that threatens to boil over before it can turn hostile, catching the way your nostrils flare and shoulders square up.

“Wait, there’s good news and bad news?” Your focus on Steve shifts as Eddie’s words sink in.

“Like I said, I’m going to finish balancing the books.” The metal head reminds you, giving a half salute with two fingers while simultaneously shooting a stern look to Steve who’s mouthing something behind you. “Your mechanic’s going to go over everything with you, we can talk about pricing when it’s all said and done.”

“Seriously?” You bluster as Eddie shrugs with the kind of nonchalance that sends you reeling before sitting back down, tuning the dial up on the speaker in his office.

End of discussion.

“Look -“

“How do I even know that you know what you’re talking about?” You interrupt, making his full lips set into a straight line.

“Are you going to be like this the whole time?” Steve sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose before crossing his arms, the tops of his shoulders moving with them. You can see the green that hides in his eyes, only shimmering if you look close enough in the sunlight.

A pleading expression softens his features instead of the hard combative one you were anticipating, and it has your blood pressure returning to normal. The realization hitting you that maybe skipping breakfast with a hangover probably wasn’t your smartest idea.

“N-no, sorry, I just feel like -“

“Shit? Yeah I bet.” He chuckles, and your jaw clicks. Maybe if you count to three…

“Just tell me what’s wrong with my car, Steve.” It comes out clipped, but it's an improvement from your fingers twitching to rip that handsome head right off those shoulders that won’t stop trying to distract you.

“How about you tell me the last time you had your oil changed?” He counters, taking a few steps back to sit on the hood of the rusted baby blue Buick behind him.

“Uhh, I- I think,” All the blood rushes to your cheeks, warming your skin as you try to wrack your brain and not focus on the way his legs spread wide to keep his balance. “Maybe like, six months ago.”

“Six months?!” The number must be worse than whatever Steve was preparing for when a dirty hand runs through his hair, “and then you drove it three states to get here?”

“Yeah, I - I mean, hearing you say it out loud,” you grimace thinking of all the weeks you ignored that flashing orange light on your dashboard.

“So then you shouldn’t be surprised when I tell you that your engine locked up.” He sighs with a disappointed expression.

“Is this the bad news?”

“Kind of,”

“What do you mean kind of?”

“Look, the good news is that I can fix it, the bad news is that I have to order a few parts that could take up to three weeks to get here, then the job itself is going to take me probably another week.” He sighs standing up, starting back towards your car with you quick on his heels.

“That’s the whole summer!” You argue like it could possibly make a difference, frustration pricking at the corners of your eyes watching him pop open the hood.

“More like half of it, but hey, you’re lucky I can even get it running again without having to replace the whole thing.” He meets your gaze from under his lashes leaning over the engine, long nimble fingers unscrewing the cap where your oil should go.

“So what am I supposed to do? How am I supposed to get around?” You know that part isn’t his problem, this entire mess is your own doing but it doesn’t stop it coming out in a whine. You blame your hangover.

“You’re gonna be just fine city girl,” Steve grins up at you before reaching even further under the hood, muscles flexing with him, “besides we both know I can’t say no to Robin.”

He pulls at a small tube that’s purpose is unknown to you but you keep eyes trained on his movements like you have an idea, anything to keep the focus off the gold chain that dangles from his neck.

“Or you.” The last part comes out so quiet, a focused look pinching his brows together as he continues his investigation.

“Me?”

He doesn’t look at you when he shrugs, pulling at something with a little more force that makes you both flinch.

“How much is this going to cost me, Steve?” Your defeat shows in your tone, as the question slips quietly from between your lips that you wish you’d have put gloss on now.

He grunts at the same time something pops against metal under his hands, muttering a string of curse words under his breath before standing back up wiping his palms on the white cotton of his tank top. Charcoal stains fill the small grooves in the fabric with each swipe of his hands, pulling the collar further down every time. It’s a losing battle not to look at his chest when every motion reveals more of the thick curls underneath.

Steve clears his throat, letting you know that you’ve been caught and it’s at this moment you wish you could walk in front of the moving truck that drives loudly past the shop, only exaggerating the silence that follows.

“Don’t stress about that today,” he smiles, letting you off the hook for now, something mischievous dancing in his eyes for another time. “Like Eddie said, we’ll figure it out.”

“Don’t stress about it?! Have you met me?” You huff, the money you’ve saved up for the summer starting to dwindle right before your eyes.

“I have actually,” Steve chuckles, stepping close enough for the tips of your shoes to touch his boots. He feels bold when you don’t make any attempt to move away like at the party or retreat when he closes the gap this time. A thumb and forefinger find their way to your chin, tilting your head up to meet his gaze, “and you’re going to be fine, I promise.”

Your lips part on their own, the full force of his face from this close stealing the breath from your lungs. You can smell the coffee he had this morning and the mint from his tooth paste still lingering on his breath. The stubble that lines his sharp jaw is even more noticeable today, tapering off at the top of his neck making the cluster of moles that live there stand out even more. A pink tongue runs over his full bottom lip and it has your lashes fluttering against the tops of your cheeks.

“Now go get some food, grumpy,” his voice comes out low, a teasing edge to it that reminds you of what it’s like to have Steve Harrington flirt with you. “I’ll call when I get the parts okay?”

It’s like detention junior year all over again, turning into putty in his hand. Still too attractive for his own good, all you can do is nod while all the fight you had left inside you disappears as the pad of his thumb swipes soft against your heated skin just under your pouted lip before letting you go. He turns on his heel after that, walking back to the box of tools he has spread out over his work bench before adding,

“Do me a favor though and tell Robin she owes me a new pair of sneakers.”

[just-some-random-blogger]

Safe Keeping | 3

Part 1 2 3 4

"What say you, lady? Don't you think the Hound would make a fine husband? He would protect you, yes, and you would bear him many babes." I curtsy again but this time, my voice falters when I speak, "I- I think he would," I turn to my left, "Lord Sandor would make a fine husband... a fine father."

Sandor Clegane x Reader | 6k+ | cw: fem!reader, forced marriage, enemies to lovers, slow burn, angst, emotional unavailability, The Hound being abrasive, jealousy, canon typical casual misogyny/violence, themes/mentions of menstruation/pregnancy/miscarriage, baby fever, typos, etc.

A/N: i made a bunch of shit up in this this chapter so just roll with it (: originally posted on ao3 but felt like posting it on here

Tagging: @otteropera @poisonsage808 @glitterandgoldfinds

I blink harshly and pinch myself, willing my body awake. I force my eyes wide open, doing my best to make sense of the surroundings that were cloaked in black.

We were heading to my family's abandoned estate in the Brown Wood by the Sterling Rivers; finally, the people there would have a present preceding lord to govern them.

I had not been to the estate since my family was murdered when I was 10 and 3. There was a dread and an excitement that tingled in my body at the idea of return.

Right now, however, my head was starting to hurt from sleepiness.

It seemed we could cease for nothing. We, or rather, the horse and Sandor, have been walking for what felt like ages towards naught.

"Perhaps we should stop for the night," I turn to the Hound from atop my horse, whose face was barely visible in the darkness.

"And do what, little girl?" he groans, "you wanna sleep in the mud?"

I feel Lucy lean further into my shoulder from behind. She nuzzles into my neck and sighs; her arms, which were wrapped around me, loosened as she deeper fell into slumber. Daisy, too, was asleep. Much like Lucy, she nuzzled into Sandor's neck, who's been carrying her since King's Landing.

"Our options are currently limited," I tell him.

He scoffs, "a prissy lady like you thinks she can catch a wink of sleep with her head on a rock?" The Hound adjusts his hold on the reins of the horse, "if you find it hard to sleep on horseback, gods, do I have news for you."

I knit my brows at his words, "I don't find it hard to sleep. I'm choosing to stay up with y-"

"And which of us asked you to do that?" he scoffs and eyes me, "shut your mouth and sleep."

"You've been walking for leagues," I whine, "yours and the horse's backs must hurt from carrying-"

"Then shall I throw you away?" he snaps and stops in his tracks. The horse neighs at the sudden halt. I tighten Lucy's arms around me as I look down at him.

He was truly so large; even now as I was perched upon a steed, he barely had to crane his neck up to look at me.

"It'll be fucking easier for me to get by without 3 bitches weighing me down."

I turn away and huff.

Regardless of this, unlike most times, I feel no threat with his words. If he really wanted to get rid of us, he wouldn't have taken us in the first place. This much I knew. Still, I keep my silence on the matter and mutter instead, "I hope we find lodging soon."

Sandor scoffs and continues walking. He adjusts his grip on Daisy as he looks forward, "your hope is just as helpful as your dollies, little girl."

It's nothing short of a miracle that wandered to a town and found an inn. The moment I thanked the gods tough, they laughed at my face.

We flock outside the inn and Sandor immediately calls the worker girl carrying a bucket of potatoes, telling her to prepare us a room. She turns to him, swallowing the immediate terror she felt over his appearance, and choked out there were no rooms left for many claimed rooms tonight. She says we should try the inn another town away.

You could guess how much The Hound liked that.

The girl and I both gasped when the massive man blocked her passage and imposed upon her, "I suggest you fucking make room for us."

"Sandor!" I cry out, feeling Lucy wake behind me.

The girl drops her bucket; it breaks with a crash and out spills the potatoes. She scrams to pick it all up.

Daisy whines in shock of the noise, wakes, and lifts her head. I pull Lucy's arms off me when Sandor kicks the girl's bucket away. She squeals and falls on her bum just as I jump down from the horse gracelessly.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" I stand in his way before he can do anything further to the girl. This causes us to collide and I shuffle back in contact. My feet hit the girl's legs and I lose my balance.

I yelp the same time the Hound grabs me by the arm and snarls, "you stupid fucking girl!"

He rips me into his chest. His iron grip on my arm stings so bad I feel my eyes water. I hiss, "let go of me!"

Daisy begins to stir in his arms. She barks and he wrangles out of his grip. The Hound releases the both of us; the dog jumps out of his arms and comes to my side.

At this point, Lucy is wide awake and jumps off the horse. She fixes her satchel around her and comes to my side. She asks me if I'm hurt and rubs my arm as I did. I tell her to help the girl up as I glare at Sandor.

Daisy is losing her mind barking. It makes the Hound more furious than he was already. He tries to kick her, but Daisy was thankfully quick and managed to run off before he could hit her. She continues barking behind me.

I walk towards him when he makes an attempt to hurt Daisy again. I block his path and grabbing his thick arms, "STOP IT!"

The Hound's eye twitches. He reaches out and yanks my head back by the hair, "you really think you can stop me?"

I whine. I grab the hand on my hair, "she's just a child! It's not her fault there are no more rooms!"

The Hound growls. He releases me roughly.

I shuffle back.

Lucy glares at him as she collects the potatoes and gives it to the weeping girl; she gathers them in her skirts.

"I'm doing this for you, hen-peck," The Hound quips, "and you'd prefer to make me suffer all the way to the next rat infested village!"

"That's not what I'm asking you to do!" I rebut, blood pumping hot with anger, "I'm asking you to leave the girl alone because she's done nothing but be honest to us!"

A chill runs down my spine when I hear him laugh; it's the first time I've ever heard him make such a sound.

"You know what happens to you lot of honest people?" he steps forward and leans down to meet me eye level. I step back but hold his gaze. He he snorts then spits by his side before straightening up, "we lot kill you."

I am equal parts frustrated and scared when he turns around and walks off. Gods know what he will do now.

I call out to him, "I'll find us lodging! I swear it!"

"You go do that, little girl," he growls back as he disappears into the thicket.

I release a breath as I turn around and walk up to Lucy and the girl. Daisy finally stops barking.

"Forgive me, sweet girl," I mutter as I help the weeping thing up. I give Lucy a look and she immediately nods and goes through her satchel. I frown at the girl and brush away the hair sticking to her dampened face, "my husband has rough hands and a sharp tongue."

Her face falls upon hearing this.

Lucy pulls out a coin and shows it to her before slipping it between her belt.

"For your trouble, my dear," I pull away from her, "I hope no one will bother you again tonight."

With that, the girl curtsies and walks off.

"Would you like some wine, my lady?"

I turn to the man, sat diagonal to me. He gives me a beaming smile from ear to ear, hazel eyes twinkling with the morning sunshine. His his rosy cheeks are framed by his mousy blonde hair. He motions to his servant, but then changes his mind a second later. He stands from his seat on the table and grabs the ewer, ready to pour me a glass.

I cover the chalice before me and smile, "water is enough for me, my lord. Thank you."

"Oh," he raises the object, "please. This is special wine from my uncle's vineyard. I tell you there is none like it."

Lucy, sat to my right, lifts her eyes as she chews the duck we had been served.

I shake my head, "I do not doubt it. I do not think it appropriate for me to drink wine, however."

"Nonsense," he shakes his head and smiles, "a cup of wine in the morning will get your blood pumping."

"No, Lord, I do not make issue of drinking during this time of day," I purse my lips, "I mean I am..." I trail off trying to think of the simplest way to explain it, "expecting."

The man tilts his head in confusion.

"Of course, I am uncertain, but..." I turn to my lap then turn back to him.

Lucy chews slowly as she straightens up beside me.

"... I could be with child."

The man freezes upon hearing that. His lips part and his arm slowly lowers.

I offer him a soft smile. He makes a cautious sound, "my apologies, Lady Clegane."

"No. All is well, I assure you, Lo-"

"No," he clears his throat, "it was quite impertinent of me to press upon such a thing with a lady," he nods, "you have taught me a valuable lesson."

I let out a polite chuckle, "glad to be of service, Lord Alistair."

"Please, the Lord of house Alistair is my father," he smiles, "I bid you call me Cedric."

Lucy pretends to clear her throat and then grabs her cup. Our host sees this then stands up to offer, "perhaps you would like to try the wine instead?"

Lucy blinks and looks between him and I. I give her a look then she says, "don't mind if I do, milord."

I chuckle under my breath.

He pours her a cup and she immediately drinks it.

She lets out a breath, "wow. Cedric's right about the wine!"

Both of us perk in shock of Lucy's words.

"Lucy!" I quip.

"What, milady?" she makes an innocent face, "it really is god wine!'

"You cannot call our Lord by his name!"

"But he said not to call him Lord Alistair!"

My jaw drops, "Lucy!"

Cedric laughs, "no. She is right. I did say that." He looks between us, "I pray both of you call me by my name."

I turn to Cedric but do not get to respond as Lucy does it for me, "I am your obedient servant."

Cedric laughs and we make small talk as we continue to finish our morning meal.

Cedric Alistair was a most courteous host. Last night, as our options went dry, I asked the townsfolk where their lord resided, and we walked all the way to the Alistair stronghold in hopes of amity. We were met with much more than that

Not only did he feed me, Lucy, Daisy, and the horse, but he had his servants draw us baths and give us a change of clothes. He refused any of the coin I had to give him, and said it was only right to host a lady this way. He even said he would also have his men look for my missing husband.

Sandor wandered off after our squabble, thus we looked for a place to stay ourselves. I knew partially, he probably needed this time to cool his temper, but I obviously didn't want to be separated from him. And yet, the idea of having Lord Alistair's men look for the Hound made me anxious, as I knew the chances of a fight breaking out between them was high. In the end, told him he did not need to deploy his men because my husband would find his way to us eventually.

Cedric chuckled in surprise when I told him this, remarking I must have quite the capable husband.

Neither of us expected him to walk into the room in the middle of our conversation.

I stand from my seat when I spot him, "Sandor!"

Lord Cedric stands with me.

The Hound is expressionless, save for the way his brows were furrowed. His skin and armor is still covered in blood from the battle of the Blackwater; it's now dried up and brown. His hair and beard is matted.

Daisy, who had been graciously kept indoors and was being fed at the end of the room, runs as fast as her three legs can take her, towards the Hound.

Lucy finds herself standing because of this. She runs up to Daisy, who was now near Sandor. She scolds the dog who is excited to see him. Sandor ignores them both and heads towards me. I meet him halfway, looking his body once over.

Sandor halts when I place my hands on his arms. In truth, the action was instinctive. Seeing him like this in daylight was making my stomach churn. I look up at him, "this is not your blood, right?"

His eyes look heavy as he looks down at me. He huffs, "no."

I nod in relief, "here," I pull away and motion to my seat, "you can have my food-"

"Nonsense," Cedric interjects, turning from us to the entrance of the dining room, "could someone prepare a plate for Lord-"

Sandor reaches past me and grabs the duck on my plate, stuffing it into his mouth.

Cedric turns to him as he does this.

I ask, "could I request a damp cloth?"

Lucy finally calms Daisy down and convinces her to go back to her bowl and finish eating.

Cedric eyes me, then Sandor, then the entrance, "and a damp cloth!"

I watch as Sandor devours the meat, "where did you sleep last night?"

He huffs as he chews. "On a rock in the fucking forest," the Hound grumbles before swallows the duck in his mouth.

I frown at him, "we tried looking for you for a while after you stormed off, but I did not want to lead us any deeper into the forest beyond what torchlight touched."

Sandor gives me a nod, "smart girl."

The compliment fades in an instant when he pushes me aside and sits on my spot, finishing whatever was left on my plate. Cedric and I watch him eat. At the same time, two servants come in with a plate and cutlery, and a small basin bowl and a cloth.

"Good morn, milord," Lucy curtsies at Sandor, who spares her a glance but nothing more.

I circle around to grab a chair from across Sandor and bring it to his side. Cedric holds back whatever he is meant to say as he watches me thank his servant for the bowl and cloth, and prop it on the chair I took.

"Stop!" I hiss at Sandor,  just as he reaches to a leg of chicken with his bare hand.

The Hound pulls back and turns to me with slightly wide eyes. In contrast, Lucy's eyes are as big as the moon.

I wring out the towel before taking Sandor's left hand, wiping it. I mumble, "I know you're starving, but you should eat with clean hands, my Lord."

Cedric finally sits down on his chair. Lucy turns to her own hands and wonders if she should wash after touching Daisy.

Sandor gives me his other hand to clean, silently watching me do this.

"Would you like milk of the poppy for your wounds, Lord Clegane?" Cedric asks, unable to tear his eyes from the man's face, "for your burn?"

I turn to him when he says this while. I motion to Sandor, wordlessly allowing him to continue eating now. I wash the towel in the basin, "he's not inju-"

"I would like some milk," Sandor says as he tears himself some chicken.

I furrow my brows at this, turning to him, "but you said-"

Cedric is about to call the order but then my husband's voice cuts him off. The Hound blurts just as I begin to wipe his face, "but only if it's from my wife's teat."

Lucy begins to choke on the wine she was drinking.

My freeze in my spot. I feel my face burn like a thousand suns.

There is a thick tension in the air, only thinned by the sound of Lucy's coughing.

I don't know what to say and so I decide not to say anything. I simply wipe the man's face with bit more force than necessary. He didn't even seem to notice.

The Hound eyes Lord Alistair the whole time he eats. It makes both the Lord, himself, and I severely uncomfortable.

"Sandor," I scold warily.

He does not turn to me as he picks up a cup, "wife."

I watch him chug down water then turn to me. The Hound asks, "you want some duck?"

I do my best not to roll my eyes.

The horses grazed as we took a break near a river. I watch Sandor kneel down by the water and wash his face. I scoff at him, sitting down on a rock.

We were on our way to my family's estate again. Cedric had been kind enough to offer us each a horse. The Hound, however, was too proud to accept a horse for himself, arguing he would not be able to carry the stupid bitch if he got on horseback.

He also rejected a bath, as 'we ought to not waste daylight.'

I look around the surroundings, finding solace in the fact that at least the weather was clear and kind. I watch Daisy run around and dig a hole with her paws; her broken leg did not really help, and yet that did not stop her from using it. I smile at the animal.

I watch Lucy lean into her horse and stroke it's mane. I can barely make out what she was whispering to the steed Cedric gave her. Still, the sight intensified my smile.

I so badly want to give them a good life.

I turn to the tree by my side. I remember how we used to have a tree in Brown Wood, how my father made my brothers and I a swing himself. I want that. I want to do the same for my children. I wonder if that tree was still there. I gasp when I spot a squirrel on the branch.

The Hound is immediately alerted by this and grabs his hilt, "what is it?"

"A squirrel," I point and stand. I walk over to the tree, "look, it's so little!"

Sandor makes a noise and makes a face, "Little?" he releases his grip, "what like you? Shall I get it for you as a pet?"

I turn to him, shocked by his offer. He would get a pet for me?

He walks towards me, "I won't be the one to kill it. Your dog will."

My expression morphs into a scowl.

He clicks his tongue twice then whistles. Daisy barks in response and follows after him. I am somehow angered by her obedience to him. I scoff under my breath, "I suppose dogs recognize each other."

The moment I see Daisy's excitement towards him, I regret speaking such harsh words. I'm glad Sandor did not hear it.

Lucy watches me as I walk up to my horse. Sandor takes me by the waist and lifts me with no fuss. I easily mount the horse and look down at him. I finally find it in me to bring it up after a painfully quiet travel, "you did not have to be so icy to Lord Alistair. He was a temperate host."

Sandor chuckles dryly and grabs the reins of my horse. He begins to walk. Daisy walks beside him as he says, "I'm sure he'd love to warm your bed. And I'm sure you'd want him to."

My face falls at his accusation.

"I'm sure you'd let him."

"Do not speak so low and surely of me, Hound!" I hiss, "these words you sputter weigh heavily on the both of us."

He chuckles again, "is that supposed to be a threat?" He turns to me, "you think I give a shit about words?"

"Well, I do!" I snap, eyes watering in anger and frustration, "and your words hurt me!" I turn away from him, "I have done nothing but try to please you, and you do nothing but try to hurt me!"

"Please me," he grumbles and looks away, "you've done nothing but nag and slow me down!"

I ignore him as I ruefully wipe away my tears, cursing myself for crying over him again.

The Hound is about to bark another string of complaints but stops himself as he whips back at me. He looks for a second, adjusting his hold onto he reins, then turns away, "you should have married the likes of fucking Lord Alistair, little squirrel."

I scoff and shake my head at his new nickname, "well, I didn't choose you, didn't I, Hound?"

Lucy's looks at me, lips parting at sound of the remark.

Sandor turns to Daisy, watching her keep up with him with her three paws, "no, you did not."

We were finally... home.

It was the dead of night when we arrived, and my family estate was as abandoned as ever. The place was called Brown Wood, as it was near a forest which was home to many brown bears. The forest extended to the Sterling Rivers, which got its name for it's clear waters where you could fish for gold. It used to be a haven for both men and beasts alike, now, it was a ruin of darkness.

The people that remained there stayed as far from the forest as they could, fearing what lurked in the shadows.

Sandor had to open the gates himself, as there would be no one to do it for us. The moment we were inside, a chill ran down my spine.

"This was your home, milady?" Lucy asks, looking around the place as our horses tread inside.

I sniffle and offer a smile, mostly to mask the fear building in my stomach, "it wasn't always like this."

"How old were you when you left again?" she asks as she readies to dismount her horse.

Sandor shoos Daisy away before reaching out to help me down. I reply before I do, "10 & 3."

I huff as Sandor sets me down. I look up at him. He looks down on me, pulling his hands that lingered too long away from my waist. Daisy begins to run around and bark. The Hound walks off and shushes her.

Lucy takes my arm and we go inside together.

I thought if we lit candles and the fireplace, I'd feel less scared, but I think I was terrified now. I thought that if I ignored that feeling as I showed everyone around my old home, I'd feel better, but I didn't.

Lucy had decided to take the room near the kitchen, so she wouldn't have to walk so far in the mornings to cook for us. I wasn't exactly sure where Daisy was. It was now only Sandor and I walking down the halls. I was leading us to the master bedroom with a single candle in my hand.

I open the door and step in, "here it is."

I turn to Sandor, stood by the door. I place the candle down my the bedside table. He surveys the room, taking in the cob webs and the dusty furniture, "it's big room."

I lick my lips, "it was bigger in my head, but... it must have just been because I was a child when I was last here."

Sandor looks at me and nods, "I will sleep in the room beside you."

"Wha- wait!" I step forward.

Sandor's boots skid on the floor as he stops himself.

"Y-you're-- y-you're not going to sleep with me?"

Sandor grips the knob, "have I ever slept with you before?"

I feel like I'm going to be sick.

A moment of silence passes.

"You could start sleeping with me now," I offer weakly as I motion around, "there's more than enough space for the two of us."

Sandor shifts before speaking, "I'm going to take a bath before going to bed." And with that, he closes the door behind him.

I gasp when he does. I feeling a heavy dread sliver up my spine.

I roll my shoulders back and roughly brush my arms. I light the other candles in the room and busy myself with changing the sheets. There was a bittersweetness in doing so. This used to be my parents room. I knew where they kept their things and all their things were still in place. One would wonder why every item was still intact and untouched, but then one clearly does not know the horrid tales that befell Brown Wood.

I rip the sheets off the bed, coughing as dust flew around. I do my best attempt at changing the sheets and chuck the musty ones by the edge of the bed.

Once I gave up in fitting the sheets the way Lucy did, I huffed and undid my dress, remaining in nothing but my shift. I then hid under the covers.

My exhaustion should have made it easier to sleep, but the setting was triggering my memories. It wasn't long until I was recounting the one I hated the most. Fear was clawing at me, and soon enough, my mind was playing tricks.

The next thing I knew I was frozen in bed, too petrified to move, but wanting nothing more than to get up and flee, to where, I did not know. I begin to feel tears stream from my eyes, but I'm too scared to make a noise, too scared that it will bring forth the darkness lurking in the shadows.

Somehow, I eventually manage to convince myself to call a name, I do this against a pillow though. Slowly, I call the name louder and louder until I was screaming into the bed, "SANDOR!"

I burst into a shriek when I feel something touch my shoulders.

"IT'S ME! It's me!" he groans, ripping my blanket down, turning me to face him. I sit up and grab hold of his arms. I look at his face, I look at Sandor's alarmed expression. He was in nothing but his breeches but that didn't stop me from grabbing his bare shoulders as I sobbed.

"What's wrong, squirrel?" he pushes my hair away from my face, "why are you calling out to me like this?"

I feel him wipe my cheeks. I miss the gentleness of his touch because I'm too wrapped up in my terror.

I shake my head, "I can't do it."

"Do what?"

"Sleep on my own," I choke out, grabbing his wrists, "please."

Sandor remains still as I move closer to him.

"I swear to you I will stay on my side," I shake my head rapidly, "I will not move. I will not make a sound. I will make myself as small as possible, but I beg that you sleep with me, that you stay with me."

Sandor considers my desperation in silence.

I whine when he pulls away. I repel his actions and throw myself onto him, "please-"

"I'm just going to get my shirt."

"There are shirts here!" I say as I grab his arm and stand from bed. I drag him towards the closet and hand him my one of my father's old shirt. I get on my tiptoes and begin to put it on him. He grunts as I do this, but lets me do it anyway.

"I got it," he quips when I try helping him put the sleeve on.

I watch him put on the shirt. It looked a bit tight on him but I couldn't care less, he would have to make due. I grab his bicep, "so, you'll stay with me?"

Sandor eyes me, pushing his hair back, "I don't have much of a choice, do I?"

I release a breath, "I swear," I shake my head again, "I will not make a fuss! I am a light sleeper! If I do something, simply wake me so that I do not both-"

"I get it," Sandor says, pulling his arm away. I follow him closely as he steps into bed. I quickly follow after him, taking the smallest portion of the bed possible.

"I'm not that fucking massive, girl," he grumbles once he's on his side.

I turn to him, "I don't want to-"

"I'm bothered with you sleeping so on edge that you're going to roll off any second."

I scoot a tad closer to him.

Sandor makes himself comfortable. I slowly let myself do the same.

I anticipate an interrogation from him. I'm sure he wanted to ask why I was crying, why I wanted him here, why I'm so scared, but they never come. He just lays there with me in the quiet. I instead find myself focusing on the sound of his breathing as a distraction to my racing mind. I eventually tire myself out and slowly doze off.

I wake up with a groan. I bite my lip and reach out to the other side of the bed. Empty again.

I sigh and roll under the covers. I freeze when I feel a dampness between my thighs.

I push myself up and pull the sheets down as I sit up. A pool of red was seeping through my shift. A panic shoots through me. I clutch my belly, mortified as I rip up my skirt and see how much blood I've lost. Was this...

I lie back down and try to count the days that I last bled and the day Sandor and I laid together.

I release a breath. The counting is both calming and frustrating.

I sit back up and call, "Lucy!"

I stand from the bed and pull the sheets off, "Margaret!"

I walk to the closet and fish for a change of clothes, "Annetta!"

A voice from afar calls out, "coming, milady!"

Lucy was the one that responded. She gasps when she walks in, eyes immediately on the red of my otherwise white attire, "you're-"

"Not with child," I finish for her, looking over my shoulder, "is a bath prepared for me?"

Lucy takes a moment before nodding, "yes. It's why it took me a while to get here," she walks over to the sheets, "the girls didn't prepare the bath the way you like it."

"I do not mind not having lavender," I pull out a dress from the closet.

"Well, I mind," Lucy turns to me, "you have been aching for a two days now."

I hum, "and now we know why," I motion to the bed she was fixing.

Lucy takes my arm before I can walk off to the bathroom. She speaks my name; she says it in a soft and wary manner. I purse my lips and turn to her. I raise my brows expectantly.

She clenches her jaw, "do you think it is monthly blood or..." Lucy's face hardens.

"My love," I shake my head and offer a smile, "it is simply my that."

My handmaiden is unconvinced, "it's been three moons since you've bled."

"And has that not happened to me before when I was a maiden?" I tilt my head and brush her hair behind her shoulders.

The both of us turn to the door when someone knocks. I tell whoever it is to enter and in comes Annetta. The young farmer's girl was one of the now many servants in Brown Wood. Her eyes widen when she sees the red on my clothes. She scrambles to get something to cover me. I chuckle and assure her it is alright because I will be bathing anyway.

This haunted place lost its ghosts once we took in people to employ. The estate now resembled something like that of my childhood; plenty of rooms were now being used, people were bustling in and out, only except now, all the responsibility was glaringly obvious to me for it was my responsibility... and Sandor's.

It was tedious work, managing a house, managing an estate, managing the whole expanse of what was within the Brown Wood and the Sterling River. The Hound was keen on being obvious to how tedious it was.

I am partially grateful that he was doing his duties-- no, I am grateful that he was. But-

"My Lord," I rise from my seat on the dining table when I see Sandor march down the halls towards me. I smile softy and nod, "good morrow."

"Nothing's good about morrows," he grumbles. Sandor draws the chair at the head of the table back with a screech. He looks down at the table. He turns to me and asks, "where's the grub?"

I decide not to respond and only look over to where the kitchen was, calling for the servants. I sit down and smile when I turn to him, "I was hoping you would join me today."

Three servants walk in carrying our plates of food and an ewer. The Hound watches them place it down and leave.

I stand up again when he takes his plate, "please."

"You know I've got no time for this," he hisses in annoyance, "I have a bunch of sorry fucks' complaints to listen to-"

"I can do that!" I place my hand on my chest, "I can fill in those duties for you."

Sandor freezes.

I turn to the table, "I wanted to speak to you about these things as we ate."

My belly swirls at his silence.

I turn back to him and catch the way he rolls his jaw and wrists. I manage to repress the way I jolt at how he roughly sits himself down. I take a deep breath before sitting down.

The Hound immediately feasts. He makes soft sounds as he chews. The cutlery clanks against the china.

I begin to eat as well, "did you wake before sunrise again?"

He responds by stuffing more food in his mouth.

I look at him as I chew. I look at his burn scar, where his hair started and ended on that side of his face. I notice at how, though he is quick to eat, he is mindful not to get anything on his beard. I notice how he not once looks back at me.

"You needn't wake so early," I offer softly, "you can have someone else-"

"None of the sorry fucks in this town know how to use a sword, not properly. Once I train a few of them, they can train themselves," he takes the ewer and pours himself a cup of wine. He mutters as he brings the cup to his lips, "they keep complaining about the woodland monsters stealing their sheep, but I reckon it's them thieving on each other."

I put my silverware down, "you might not believe it, but the woodland monsters are real."

The Hound sets his cup before him and continues to eat.

I feel a frustrated ire build in me, "I've told you, those creatures are what killed my family. You saw my scar. You know why I cannot sleep without you."

"I didn't say I didn't believe your story," he finally turns to me, "I said they're stealing each other's sheep."

I turn back to my plate and cut up my food, "will you investigate the theft then?"

"What for?" he continues to eat, "I scared those pricks shitless. If anyone is stealing, now they won't."

My face twitches at the thought.

Sandor notices.

He chews for a moment before asking, "what?"

I tense as I turn to him.

He looks expectantly.

I purse my lips tightly before curving it into a smile, "you have been working tirelessly and have... very surely established lordship to Brown Wood, a role that is immensely different to the one you used to have. I know that this is not the life you want or ever thought of having, but I am grateful for your a-"

"You don't have to shield my heart and kiss my ass, squirrel," he leans back on his chair and waves impatiently, "get to the point."

I lick my lips and huff, "your time in service has hardened you, as it would any other man. It has helped you become the valiant warrior you are, but--" I cut myself off to gently mutter, "I feel your way is a bit too coarse."

The Hound says nothing.

I straighten up, "that is why I would like to take upon your load of relating with the people," I reach for the ewer and pour myself some wine, "in this way, you will not have to rise so early to fit all your errands in a day."

He places his hand atop my cup when I try to pick it up.

I pull my head back as he straightens up, "you know I used to wake at the ass crack of dawn for the stupid boy-king, doncha?"

My stomach drops when he leans in.

"So, what?" he narrows his eyes, "you'd do all the talking by yourself?"

I gulp, "ideally-"

"Ideally," he chuckles and pulls away.

"-so that you may use that time for your other responsibilities, your patrols. That is something you're much more accustomed to."

My skin pricks as when laughs harder. It felt like his amusement was laced with poison.

He shakes his head and sighs deeply. He looks at me for a good long moment then tilts his head, "you think I can't do it."

I furrow my brows.

"You think I'm an imbecile who can't solve petty arguments between illiterate boneheads," he begins to flare, "and you don't want the pretty memory of your dead fucking family to be tainted by my monstrosity."

I am appalled by his words, "that's not what I said!"

"You didn't need to," he nods, "shackled to a Hound, you ought to use him like one, right? Never mind giving him a chance."

I feel like a stake pierced through my ribs. His low chuckle squeezes my heart. I rebut, "that is not what I meant."

"And what did you mean?!"

"I want to help you!" I fight back the way my eyes wanted to water, "I want to share your burden! I grew up watching my uncle speak to his people in his house, while you grew up learning the ways of the blade. What I offer is a more logical setup."

"Just like it was logical of you to keep a three legged dog," he quips back.

I scoff in disbelief.

"I suppose you want me to hunt the creatures that butchered your family next, huh?" he scratches his beard.

My face drops at the thought. I rapidly shake my head I disagreement.

He clenches his fist and grits his teeth, "why not? Maybe then you can have your kid with that pretty boy-lord across the meadow."

His words make belly contract. I clutch my belly, painfully aware that I was bleeding between my thighs this moment.

"I'm not with child," I blurt out, unable to contain my tears any longer.

Sandor is freezes, at the sight of the tears and the statement.

"I woke up bleeding," I say between cries, "I've never been regular bleeder. It's not unusual for me to skip through multiple moons."

The next words he says butchers me.

"Maybe it's the gods' will for you not to be a mother."

I stare at him in horror after hearing this. His blank expression is chilling to the bone.

He suddenly stands, "there's always something awry when we speak, and you always end up weeping."

Is this why he thinks I shouldn't be a mother?

"In any case, we ought to not speak to each other at all."

My jaw drops. I nearly choke on my heart, "now you don't even want to speak to me."

"Look at yourself," he raises a hand, "you don't want to speak to me."

"Because you are treating me so cruelly!" I spring up from my seat.

The Hound shakes his head, "I'm treating you just fine. I'm doing you a favor."

Sandor tenses as he watches me shove my chair back and walk away.

[clarkes-and-god]

[roxy4life]

Fankids! (Roxy edition!)

Nixel- N x roxy

Miracle- Roxy x Thad

Violet- V x Roxy

Jane- J x Roxy

Ronnie- Ron x Roxy

Volt- Uzi x roxy

Dolli- Doll x roxy

Lillian-Lizzy x Roxy

And if you can recommend any other's go ahead!

Bonus! R is made by @torsrighteye

Rossy, Rosie, Rosalina, - R x Roxy

Ted, Jackie, Scarlett, and Star- Thad x Roxy x R

Rebel- Randall x Roxy

Tag list- @deedah @kingryannducks @locothewolf @torsrighteye @autonomous-helper @justh4z3l-xdd

[frost-queen]

Consuming darkness (Reader x Charles & Edwin)

Requested by: @sparklybirdtrash Forever tag: @missmelodramatic, @alex--awesome--22, @floatlosers, @merlieve, @queen-of-books , @glimmering-darling-dolly , @denkisclown , @wildiefleur , @meyocoko , @subjecta13-thefangirl , @m-rae23 , @harleyquinnswifeyfrfr , @melsunshine , @panhoeofmanyfandoms , @venomsvl , @the-uncoordinated-house-cat , @rosecentury , @evilcr0ne , @vviolynn , @niktwazny303 , @avada-kedavra-bitch-187 , @erikasurfer , @slythetic , @p0nycurtis

“Let me help you.” – Charles called out coming running over. You smiled reaching your hand out to him. Already opening your mouth to thank him when he brushed past you, reaching for Crystal behind you in the mud pool. Crystal was sputtering loud with annoyance. Splashing her hands on the mud with anger. Embarrassed you lowered your hand, glancing over your shoulder. Crystal took his hand as Charles started pulling her out of the mud.

You watched her move to the side, Charles dragging her over the edge onto the grass. Crystal wiped some mud off her face with a grunt. Charles helped her up as Crystal shoved his hands off her. – “Great idea Charles!” – she called out annoyed getting up herself. – “Sure what’s the worst that could happen.” – she said sarcastically. – “I had to think fast!” – Charles replied in defence. Crystal puffed loud with a roll of her eyes. She shoved Charles aside. Charles looked questionable at her. – “Charles…” – you said holding your hand out so that he could help you.

Charles scoffed loud going after Crystal. – “Ouch…” – you told yourself, sitting alone in the mud pool. Using your arms, you pushed yourself closer to the edge. Plopping your muddy arms out of the pool, dropping them onto the grass. Grabbing for it to pull your weight up. Needing to use all your might to get out. It would’ve been easier if Charles had just helped you. Your body rolled over on the grass, laying on your back, panting. The sky a clean canvas.

Closing your eyes for a moment, you wanted to bury your emotions away. Allowing yourself to cry would just make it more real. The lies you had been telling yourself over the course of time, fading. Everything will be alright. It will all be fine. It’s just temporary. Lately it didn’t feel like it. With a deep exhale you sat up. Pressing your lips together to pull yourself together.  

You found your friends after a while. Joining the three of them quietly. – “I need a bath.” – Crystal whined out. – “That indeed.” – Edwin pointed out with a sarcastic smile. Crystal rolled her eyes at him, shoving him by the shoulder. – “Au.” – Edwin whispered falling in line with Charles after her. Another punch to the gut as your friends didn’t even seem to acknowledge you. Or even ask if you were alright. Giving yourself a good shake, the mud disappeared.

Back in Crystal apartment, you followed Charles and Edwin through the walls. Crystal warned no one to enter the bathroom with a clear glare. Charles pulled his hands up as Edwin kept his hands neatly in front of him. – “As if.” – he told her, taking a u-turn and leaving. The boys started roaming her room. Edwin looking at the few books in her room, making a ghastly sound at her awful taste. Charles started looking at some trinkets as you moved to the back of the room.

Charles eyes suddenly widened, turning to Edwin. – “Have you seen…” – he asked but before he could finish his sentence, you replied. – “Right here.” – you held your hand up, making your friends look in your direction. You lowered your hand, looking away. Edwin breathed in, wanting to speak when they heard Crystal shout frustratedly from inside the bathroom.

“Need any help Crystal?” – Charles called out to tease her. – “No!” – Crystal shouted back at him, knowing he might just dare. Charles chuckled amusingly. After a long time Crystal came out. – “I never want to see mud in my life again.” – she grunted out. – “I see the mud bath has not done miracles for your skin.” – Edwin answered with a sarcastic smile. – “You are lucky I don’t have any mud to throw at you.” – Crystal replied making Charles snicker loud. Edwin rolled his eyes at her, turning his posture away from her.

The skies darkened, silencing the world. Only a few fools wandering the streets at night. The little bell rang from Tragic Mike’s shop. He barely lifted his head up, still focusing on the newspaper he was reading. Crystal walked up to his counter, laying her elbows on top. Smiling sweetly back at him.

Tragic Mike sighed loud, lowering his newspaper. – “What now?” – he asked. – “Hi Tragic Mike.” – you greeted him. – “Hi Y/n.” – he answered happily. His smile gone when he turned to face Crystal once more. – “Got something to stop a demon from messing with your head?” – she asked leaning over the counter. Charles looked uneasy over his shoulder, hands stuffed in his jacket.

“I’ll have to see.” – he answered, already turning half his posture away from her. Crystal’s eyes fell on a bottle filled with complete blackness. Curious she grabbed for it over the counter. – “Oh what’s this?” – she questioned. Tragic Mike turned back, panic in his eyes as he launched at her. – “Careful!” – he called out as it made Crystal jump out of her skin.

“That… that is complete darkness.” – he informed her with a warning. – “Something you do not wish to unleash.” – he gestured for her to give him the bottle back. Gently and with care. – “What’s so scary about some darkness?” – Crystal asked. It almost gave Tragic Mike a heart-attack at how careless she was about darkness.

“If it consumes you, there will be nothing. Just complete nothingness and darkness for eternity. No happy afterlife or even torture in hell, just emptiness.” – He warned her once more. Crystal swallowed nervously, setting the bottle on the counter. – “About my demon problem.” – Crystal pressed on making him sigh loud. He left his counter to go and search for something in the back.

Charles came closer to the bottle. – “Don’t touch that!” – Edwin warned him when he saw his mate’s eager hands go for it. Charles pulled his hand down, bending through his knees to observe it from much closer. – “Funny how this little thing can cause so much.” – Charles spoke. – “Looks can deceive.” – you answered glancing unintended to Crystal.

“Just stay away.” – Edwin called out, not wanting this on his hands. – “Where does one bottle even darkness?” – Crystal questioned while they were waiting for Tragic Mike to return. – “Shadows?” – Charles answered unbothered. Edwin throwing him a side-eye at how wrong that answer was.

“Inky pools.” – Edwin corrected him. – “And where does one find those?” – Crystal answered still not satisfied with the answer. – “The land of dreams and nightmares.” – you filled in for them. Making the three of them look at you.

You saw Crystal gawk confused at you making you untangle your crossed arms. – “The realm of an endless. More specific the lord of dreams and nightmares.” – you told them. Rolling with your eyes, you made it easier for Crystal to understand. – “You might know him as the sandman.” – you ended. Edwin looking proudly your way.

“Honestly don’t you read.” – you bit at Crystal slightly annoyed. Crystal looked back at the little bottle, feeling a shudder go down her spine. – “That thing is giving me the creeps.” – she said out loud. Tragic Mike returned with something small. He handed it over to Crystal. The three of you started to head out as Crystal was right behind you. Re-adjusting her bag better over her shoulder.

Edwin came standing beside you, taking a hold of his jacket. – “I was very impressed with your knowledge Y/n.” – he told you. – “Well you can’t be the only smart-one can you?” – you teased letting your hip bump against his. Edwin chuckled. It made you smile back at him, feeling that bit return from the old days.

When it was just the three of you. No crystal and only worrying about finishing cases. Edwin gave you a playful bump against your shoulder. The two of you followed Charles and Crystal back to the apartment. They were chatting when a crow came flying near Crystal. Making her panic and flap her hands around.

“Shoo, get lost!” – Charles would shout, swaying his arm around. Blindly stumbled Crystal backwards, bumping against a trashcan. Nearly stumbling over it, she turned to grab it fully arms wrapped around it. – “Beat it!” – Charles shouted as the crow suddenly took off.

Edwin and you came running over. – “Everything alright?” – Charles asked, taking Crystal by her arm to help her up. – “That stupid crow!” – Crystal cursed out. – “Crystal… your bag… is leaking…” – Edwin pointed out seeing the stain grow larger. – “Shit!” – Crystal called out, opening her bag. – “Double shit!” – she cursed seeing the glass inside her bag. Charles plucked her bag from her, taking a look for himself inside. His eyes widening with fear. – “Crystal.” – he said calmly but feeling himself get closer to panic. – “Don’t tell me you nicked the darkness!” – he asked.

“What?” – Edwin called out. Crystal didn’t meet up with Charles’s cold stare. Stuttering over her words to form any. – “Crystal!” – Charles shouted loud, startling her. – “I…I thought we could use it.” – she answered making Charles turn round, pinching his nose-bridge. – “Do you have any idea what you have just unleashed into this world?” – Charles shouted at her with rage.

“I…I’m sorry.” – Crystal replied embarrassed. – “Sorry isn’t going to help us!” – Charles raged out. You walked over to Charles, snatching the bag from him. Walking off a bit, you threw the bag away. – “Hey!” – Crystal called out as Charles kept her maintained. – “Edwin. What do we do?” – Charles asked without keeping his gaze away from Crystal with anger.

Edwin was pacing back and forth, thinking. – “I…I don’t know.” – he confessed. You had an uneasy feeling, slowly turning around. A hauntingly feeling creeping over you. You had eyes on an alleyway. Darkness in the distance. Slowly creeping closer leaving nothing but pitch blackness.

It made you gasp soft as if caught by the throat by it. Feeling as if the darkness was marking you. The darkness moving over the brick walls, swallowing them hole to cover in complete night. No shadows to make up, just complete emptiness. Mesmerized by it, you couldn’t move. Pinned to the ground waiting till it stretched out to you.

“We need to go!” – you heard Charles shout somewhere behind you. – “Y/n!” – Edwin called out coming over. He grabbed you firm by the hand, pulling you with him. Your feet finally coming in motion as they followed Edwin’s rhythm. Panting loud, you looked over your shoulder, seeing the darkness linger.

You all ran back to her apartment with the meaning of haste. Crystal shut the door behind her, out of breath. – “Wonderful, just bloody wonderful.” – Charles called out to Crystal. – “Look I already said I’m sorry.” – Crystal answered bitsy. Charles stepped up to her, making her move back against the wall.

His anger still clear in his eyes. – “Are you daft? You’ve just unleashed something worse than death into the city.” – Charles shouted at her, coming all up in her face. – “Charles!” – Edwin called out to make him back off. You walked up to Charles, taking him by his arm. Charles brushed your hand off by moving his arm up. Not wanting to be touched now. With one last glare at her, he backed away. – “Look maybe… maybe it will be alright?” – Crystal said to ease the situation. Only to receive another glare from Charles.

“Edwin you better dip that nose of yours in the books.” – Charles ushered. – “Already on it.” – Edwin let out, already with a book in his hand. You wandered to the window, looking outside. Swallowing nervously as you saw the darkness at the horizon. Creeping up as it felt like staring into your soul. If the rumours were true, you knew what it meant. The darkness having targeted you to claim. Stopping at nothing till it has fully consumed you. Leaving you to a faith worser than death.

You looked over your shoulder at your best friends. Charles walking through the mirror at Edwin’s shouts. Edwin sticking half through the mirror to shout directions. Books being carefully thrown through the mirror onto the ground. Gaze lowering you knew it would be pointless.

Looking back at the door, you saw Crystal sit down, panicking with tears at what she had done. She thought it would harmless. That they could use it someday for an enemy undefeatable. Unfortunately nothing could tame the darkness. Staring back out of the window, you saw the darkness across the street. Slowly coming closer with eager hands to snatch their prey.

Taking a deep determined breath, you moved away from the window. Going over to her nightstand to light the lamp. You then went around the room lighting every light that was possible. – “What are you doing?” – Crystal sniffed, looking confused at you.

“Every element has a counter-part. Earth and air. Fire and water.” – you explained to her. – “Darkness and light.” – Edwin cut through with a thoughtful glance. – “It is worth the try.” – you replied. Edwin popped his head back through the mirror, shouting at Charles. – “Do you have any flashlights?” – you asked Crystal. She wiped her tears away, nodding shakily. She went to fetch them, feeling the darkness at the doorstep. Crystal handed you two flashlights. You gave one back to her. She clamped onto it, lighting it. Her room brightly lit.

Edwin popped his head out of the mirror to look around. He then shoved it back in, shouting orders at Charles who tried not to crumble under the pressure. You opened the door, coming to stand in the hallway. Seeing it creep up the stairs. – “It’s here!” – you shouted loud. It made Crystal whimper loud. You flashed your light down on the stairs. Seeing the darkness part where the light fell. It wasn’t enough sniff it out. The light in the hallway above your head started to flicker.

Making you gasp loud and look up. The light flickering as you begged for it to stay lit. Then the light was cut leaving you in the dark. The darkness making a bellowing sound. It made you widen your eyes as now your flashlight seemed to falter as well. Almost as if the darkness was manipulating it. Frightened, you dropped your flashlight whilst stumbling back.

Running back into the room, you shut the door behind you. You took Crystal by the arm, pulling her as far away from the door as you could. Crystal’s eyes widened when she saw her door disappear. A blackness wallowing over it like consuming air. – “Edwin!” – Crystal shouted in a panic. Edwin gasped in a panic, pulling Charles out of the mirror with him.

Crystal shone her flashlight in front of her with shaky knees. Charles pulling her further back. Edwin knelt down trying to light a match. A lantern standing in front of him. Something Charles had taken with him through the mirror.

Edwin kept glancing over his shoulder to the darkness as it crept closer. The darkness started to stretch. Long lines of darkness like hands pulling out of the darkness. Charles staring in terror as he pulled Crystal closer to him. Crystal had her eyes closed, face buried against Charles’s chest.

Yet the darkness didn’t reach for them. Charles’s gaze went up to you, still backing up near the window. Seeing how they were coming after you. – “Edwin!” – he shouted loud, taking Crystal’s flashlight to shine it at the darkness. It did little to nothing.

Edwin’s hands were trembling trying to light the fire. Your back hit the wall, knowing you couldn’t go any further. – “Edwin!” – Charles shouted once more that he needed to hurry. Edwin was mumbling words whilst trying to light the match. Charles let go of Crystal, getting closer from the side to shine his flashlight at you.

Seeing how the darkness had almost reached your toes. – “Back! Back!” – he shouted shining it at your feet. It made the darkness’s grippy hands fumble back. You were crying loud, wishing you could go further away. Charles’s light started to flicker as it made him knock on his flashlight.

“No! no not now!” – he called out frustrated. The darkness crept over your feet as you felt the cold nothingness. Shaking your head, you knew they wouldn’t make it. Crawling up to your ankles making you sigh deep. Charles trying his best to get the flashlight back on. The darkness was up till your knees as you curled up a smile between your tears.

Charles staring with tears back at you. Then your vision got blocked out. A person coming to stand before you. Edwin. Edwin jumped in front of you, holding the lantern up. One window open. He shouted loud in anger as the darkness got sucked into the light.

He kept screaming loud, his hand trembling as the darkness kept getting sucked in the lantern. The window shut close as it made Edwin almost lose his balance. He locked the lantern that now looked pitch black. A loud sob emerged out of you, making you fall to your knees. Charles ran over to you, wrapping his arms around you. Edwin setting the lantern aside before joining in.

Both of them were hugging you in tears. You were sobbing loudly at your near death experience. – “I thought I’d lose you Y/n.” – Charles cried out, hugging you tighter. – “You don’t get to leave me.” – Edwin said pressing his cheek against yours. – “I love you guys.” – you cried feeling loved by your best friends. Crystal swallowed nervously, watching the scenery.

Charles started to kiss your cheek over and over again. Edwin tightening his embrace around you. You held on tight to them, feeling their love for you. Realizing they do very much care for you. For you were their entire world. One they didn’t want to live in further if you weren’t in it.

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Love, Actually [Chapter 2: O Christmas Tree]

Series Summary: Christmas 2005, you and Aegon meet in a dog park in your hometown of Newark, New Jersey. He’s a strange foreigner who you’re hesitant about at first but he’s enamored by you. The only thing that can help you two is a Christmas miracle, and maybe a New Years kiss.

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The Lowe’s parking lot is vacant when you pull in—well, almost. At 8 a.m. on a Sunday, there were three other vehicles in the lot: a gunmetal grey Dodge Ram pickup sitting three spots down, a red Nissan Altima next to it, and an ugly, dilapidated Toyota Camry across the lot. The air is crisp and the once lush scenery, now contained only leafless trees, all that remained the skeletons of an erst spring.

You hop down from your truck a magnificent, red 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Reminiscing, it was the first nice car you’d had. In the past, you'd solely had used vehicles—a silver Honda Civic and a Nissan Frontier—but this one was fresh off the lot and is still in pristine condition. It was your baby; constant upkeep and baths every weekend, well when there wasn’t a consistent fall of sleet.

The ground was jagged underneath your feet. You run your hands over the slick outer shell of your lavender puffer jacket, rolling your fuzzy black gloves off your hands. Curdling them into a ball and shoving them aimlessly into your pockets.

The days-long blizzard had finally diminished the evening before, leaving the roads unburdened by snow in the morning. You reach the sidewalk opposite the parking lot and embark into Lowe’s. The fluorescent lighting beaming off the ceiling is overtly obnoxious, an unabridged contrast to the soft, cool light of the outside air.

The scent of wood and metal floods your senses as you head for the Christmas section. There were a few finishing embellishments you needed to do for your apartment’s decoration.

Passing the aisles of hardware, you step into the holiday décor section, some eerie-looking animatronics playing Christmas music. You hum to the melody as you head over to the statues searching for a snowman to put outside your house. You find one you’re keen on and look it over. It’s a classic snowman, made out of what looked like polyresin. The snowman had on a top hat with a plaid stripe, two stick arms, button eyes, and a fabric carrot nose.

“Hey stranger,” you jump slightly, hearing the satin smooth voice, and spin on your heels to see who it is. You’re met by the face of the same blonde man from the day prior. Aegon. A small thrill runs up your spine. My silent prayers have been answered, the universe really does love me, you surmise.

“Oh gosh, fancy meeting you here,” your heart stutters, his smile was ever-present. He had a dolly, its rusted metal squeaked as it stirred. He raised his eyebrows as if to ask why you were here. “Oh I’m just getting the final decorations for outside my apartment,” you smile, “What about you?” You gesture to the dolly he had.

“Trying to pick out a Christmas tree my flats pretty bare,” he rubs the back of his neck as if embarrassed. It's honestly kind of adorable, you brush the thought out of your mind.

“I can help you pick out a tree if you’d like. I happen to be quite the interior designer,” you cringe at the words that throng out of your mouth.

“That’d be great, I kinda suck at it,” he snorts and you chuckle along with him. You inspect him, today he didn't have a hat his disheveled fringe sat in a thatch on his head. He had a windbreaker on, sleeves bushed up haphazardly. There was a gold watch on his wrist, it was classic the hands a gleaming amber hue.

You two wander over to the Christmas trees. “See any of them you like?” You watch him as he looks over the different trees, a big tall fluffy one catches your eye, wonder filling them. “What about this one?” You look it over with him brushing the artificial needles.

“It’s… pretty," his voice was hesitant, the tone less burnished than usual.

“Oh my gosh, you hate it!” Your tone is almost playful with an undertone of alarm.

He chuckled, “No, I don’t hate it,” there was a small smirk on his face.

“Then what's wrong with it it’s like the perfect Christmas tree.” It profoundly was, it was nostalgic and had an aura of childhood around the large downy branches.

“It’s just a little too big for me to put up myself and I don't have a roommate or anything so I was looking for something maybe a little smaller.” He didn't have a roommate. He didn't have a roommate. A swell of elation filled your stomach.

“Oh. I could help you I'm free today it's my day off and I'm not busy," you commented nonchalantly attempting not to appear excited.

“If you don't mind," his tone was sanguine. A small optimistic smile on his face. He wasn't great with chicks, sure he could get into their pants, but having fortune with a woman he actually likes? He should be so lucky.

“I don't," His eyes light up and his satiny voice speaks up once again.

“Then it's a plan.” You both prop the box on the dolly before he rolls it to the checkout. On the way, you nab the snowman you had liked before and get in line behind him.

You disassociate as he checks out, involuntarily staring at him, he grins at the cashier being polite as she helps him scan the parcel. His eyes light up slightly when he looks at you and realizes you are paying attention to him.

He has a scar under his eye that you notice for the first time as his cheeks turn up when he smirks. He has a ring on his pinky finger that has a little dragon carved into it. You get lost staring at him as all these details flood your brain.

“Ma’am?” The cashier calls and Aegon places a hand on your shoulder. You startle as you realize you are staring and crimson tinges your face.

“You okay?” You nod and plod toward the cash register, embarrassment conspicuous on your face. You get the box scanned and pay for it before you both go to load the boxes into your respective cars.

Oh gosh. Of course, his car was the putrid Toyota Camry. You snicker to yourself before climbing up into your car. You lean against your wheel for a few moments watching Aegon across the lot. You tap your fingers against the wheel before starting the car and sanctioning Aegon to escort you to his apartment.

The roads of New Jersey suck. Both cars swerve out of the way of potholes about every twenty feet. Trees and bushes are overgrown on the bystreet and Aegon drives slightly erratically. It matches his personality, honestly, he was still a mystery to you. You didn't know a great deal about him other than his dog and you realize he doesn't know much about you either.

When you two arrive at his apartment building you succor him in getting the box up the stairs. The door was green and had the number 305 on it, he unlocked it with a silver key, and as soon as he opened the door loud whines were audible.

As you stood next to the box Sunfyre jumped onto Aegon like he was a family member lost to war. “Hey buddy!” he rubbed the dog's sides and back as his paws bashed into Aegon's shoulder. Sunfyre’s tongue darted out to lick Aegon's face, he attempted to pull away but all was futile against the golden retriever.

After he assaulted Aegon, Sunfyre went to you, sniffing your hand before licking it. Clearly, he’d remembered you. “Oh hi bud,” your voice inch as you spoke to the dog. Sunfyre's honey blonde tresses were neatly groomed having undoubtedly been brushed through just that morning.

Aegon commanded Sunfyre to lie down before you labored together to get the crate through the door and into the living room. You look around the apartment. It was unvarnished, to say it politely. Natural light flooded through a single uncovered window. The living room was cavernous: extensively unfurnished with only a loveseat and a coffee table stationary in the middle. A TV perched on a stand opposite the small couch. There was a draft in the room though you couldn't tell from where it was coming.

Other than the living room there was a small sepia-colored photo that sat in the kitchen you caught a glimpse of a young light-haired girl and three young light-haired boys. There was a bowl supposedly for fruit that sat empty next to the frame. A few mostly empty bottles of whiskey sat in a glass cabinet. You inch yourself into the kitchen at a slow pace.

The countertops were thinly veiled with dust. There was a dental office card left on the fridge, and a few scattered sticky notes were stuck to it. The notes had neat feminine handwriting on them. Did he have a girlfriend? A fiancé? A wife?! You glimpse a few words on the note your irrational thoughts running wild. 'Call Mom' written among them.

You feel a hand on your shoulder, his thumb was on the backside of it and you could almost feel his breath on the back of your neck. You turn to look at him with raised eyebrows. "You okay?" He queries that sly smirk still ever-present on his face. You nod and sauntered past him, his head falls to look at the ground as you make your way out of the threshold of the kitchen and into the living room.

"Would you want something to drink? Water? Hot cocoa? I do owe you," he spins the ring around his pinky as he inquires. You look up at the cream-colored walls as you respond.

"Hot cocoa, hm? Well, I might just have to take you up on it," you crack a smile. The same beverage he left the shop with yesterday he was now standing over the stovetop making. He flicked a light on in the kitchen illuminating the house further. The amber luminescence from the ceiling cast shadows on his face, you look over the curve of his nose, the fullness of his cheeks, and the gentle swoop of his platinum eyelashes.

You watch as he makes the hot chocolate, he has a formula to it as if he'd done it a million times before. "You've got skills," you lean back on the counter hands pressed against the top as you peered at him.

"It's a comfort thing, I think that's what my shrink called it?" He laughed like it was the funniest thing in the world. He did that often from what you could tell, laugh at uncomfortable or sad sentiments.

"What do you mean?" You lean forward to listen closer eyeing his chapped lips as he spoke. He grabbed each ingredient from their respective places, before igniting the stovetop and pouring the milk sugar and cocoa powder into the saucepan.

"I used to make it for my brothers and sisters when we were kids, so I think she said it's a coping mechanism or something now," he still had a grin on his face only now was it slightly saddened as his eyes flicked to the left as if he were remembering something long since past. He meticulously stirred the sugar and cocoa powder into the milk in the saucepan.

"I'm sorry," you whisper from beside him. He shakes his head, feeling shame. You push off the counter and step only a bit closer to him. "I don't pity you," he looks at you with a hardened expression. "How could I? I barely know you we met yesterday," he snickered down at the stove. It was a sad laugh one that pulled at your heartstrings.

"You make a fair point," he voices. He runs a hand through his bright fringe and up onto his head. You look at the clock: ten thirty-four. Your eyes widened, had it been that long since you'd arrived at Lowe's earlier that morning? Aegon pours the hot chocolate into two different cups; one was tan and green with speckles of black interspersed upon it and one with a small penguin painted on it, a red and green scarf wrapped around its neck. The latter was almost childish but it was nostalgic, homely.

He walked over to the fridge and swung it open. You peer in and don't see much. A Tupperware container sat in the right corner, and a few condiments were on the door. There's a pint of milk positioned on the second shelf next to some coffee creamer and eggs. He emerged from the fridge with a small bottle of what looked like alcohol in his hand. He proceeds to a cabinet and pulls out an unopened box of candy canes, plucks two out, and rests them on the counter.

Aegon shakes the small bottle in his hand, "Want some? It's peppermint flavored," the corner of his mouth quirks down in a half-smile. You notice a small 32% alc/vol at the bottom and cringed.

"It's also 10:30 in the morning."

"More for me then," he uncorks the top with his teeth and pours the contents of the bottle into the cup with the penguin. The irony of the image was almost sweet. At the same time though, a small pang of sadness hit your stomach. Day drinking at 10 a.m.? Someone had hurt this man, and badly. Maybe it was a parent? Or a girl? Your brain goes to one of the most unseemly places. Why would it even matter, he was cute but you didn't know him.

He plopped the candy canes in each cup respectively and handed the green and tan one to you, the curve of the candy cane hanging off the lip of the cup. "Thank you," you take a sip your soft lips taking in the drink, a hum of satisfaction leaving your mouth. You take the cup down from your lips and for the first time spot a record machine next to where Sunfyre was sat.

"How about we brighten the mood?" Your voice sounds almost romantic as you say it. His eyes fell amorous, which was strangely appealing. When you recognize the thought, you immediately rebuff it. You approach the machine in the corner and turn to him. "Do you have any records for this thing?"

"A couple," he gestures to a crate underneath the side table. You reach it and Aegon veers his side against a counter as he watches you. You kneel and look through the sparse number of records he had. You spot some Billy Joel and a band with a German-sounding name before coming across the one.

"Oh, we are listening to this," You pull out A Charlie Brown Christmas and sit it atop the negligible table.

He chuckles, "Oh yes, my sister got that for me as a gag gift."

"What's her name?" You wanted to know more about him, about his family. You shift to put the red vinyl on the platter of the record machine, setting the needle to stir on the grooves and the music begins to play. For a gag gift, it was sweet.

"Helaena she's a year younger than me," he smiles recalling his tenderhearted sister. She'd always been there for him.

“Well she sounds lovely,” you muse before turning to him with a playful grin on your face. He returned the expression, “You ready to get this party started?” You chuckle.

“Has anyone ever told you that you talk like an elementary school teacher?” He chuckles and you feign being offended. A hand on your chest as you gasp and grin playfully.

“Well, I didn’t think it was that obvious but thanks,” his eyes widen, obviously nonplussed.

“Oh like you actually are?” You nod a small smirk on your lips. “Well that makes sense then,” he was almost coy. He invariably had a kind of self-satisfaction to him too. It made him appear like he could never feel anything but haughty. Maybe it was uncertainty? Or a method to conceal it? He did sometimes have the look of a lost puppy, subdued and feeble.

"Come on now," you adjure, grasping his hand and pulling him to the Christmas tree box, a bit of hot chocolate spilled over the rim. With a quick prise, you remove the tape from the box and open it. Artificial pine needles burst into the air, escaping from their smothering incarceration. You begin plucking out the pieces one by one, the cutting fluff unpleasant against your velvety hand. A wisp of the green spikes runs down your arm.

Aegon takes a slurp of his hot cocoa semi-chapped lips pursing as he swallows, the warm liquid flooding and heating his body. You begin assembling the tree asking for his assistance with the top portion. “Oh isn't this just so cute!” You exclaim a big grin on your face. “This time of year is the best,” he chuckles at your delight.

You begin to fluff up the branches on the tree, languidly dispersing them so they can fill the empty spaces and gaps. “So… do you have any ornaments or garland, lights, a topper? Anything like that?” Sunfyre gazes up at you from where he sits tongue hanging out of his mouth.

He nods, “One second,” he swivels around, his back facing you, and positions his hot chocolate on the counter as he walks away. You seize your beverage and take small sips from it while he's out of the room. You scratch the backside of Sunfyre's ear, he grumbled lowly, contented.

When Aegon reappears he has an average-sized brown box in his hands. He opens it to reveal some lights, a few ornaments, and a gold seven-pointed star topper. You reach out to grab the star, “Wow this is magnificent where did you get it from?”

“It was my mother's but she wanted me to have it so I didn't stray from the faith or whatever,” his eyebrows pinched as he mentioned his mother they must've had a strained relationship.

“Okay well it's stunning but lights first,” you unravel some warm-toned lights to swathe around the tree. Aegon helps, letting the string fall in a chaotic but visually pleasing manner. After the lights, you two arrange the few ornaments mostly childhood handmade ones and classic ball ornaments.

One of the decorations had a family photo of four blonde-haired children of similar ages, two more mature-looking women, one with auburn hair and one blonde like the four younger, and a man who looked like he could be their father. The four children resemble the ones in the sepia image on the counter next to the vacant fruit bowl, this was his family, she assumed. You look over the tree to make sure there aren’t any empty spaces to fill before turning to him.

“Ready for the star?” He nodded and you both put it on the top of the tree, his hand plunged down to your waist to ensure you didn't fall. The skin there tingled at his caress. After doing so you both collapsed on the couch Sunfyre wriggled his way onto your thighs like he thought he was a lap dog.

You looked over Aegon's face, his side profile, more specifically his nose, and lips before looking away. “Do you have flour, brown sugar, spices, and eggs here?” You inquire trying not to think about what these sensibilities denotated.

“Yep,” he smiled holding the still warm cup quickly taking a gulp of the drink. His throat bobs and his tongue runs along his lips to collect any residual droplets.

“Wanna make cookies?” She leaned into him slightly the tension between you two palpable, so thick you could cut it with a knife. Your eyes flick down to his lips before you reprimand yourself mentally.

“If I ever say no to that take me out back and shoot me in the head,” you both chuckled, he had an ardent look in his eyes. You attempted to get Sunfyre off you and arose when the doorbell rang.

Ding-Dong.

[favorite-music-tourney]

Adjusted Round 1 match ups

I’m against the government by Defiance, Ohio - Little Boxes by Malvina Reynolds

Vienna by Billy Joel - Miracle of Life by Bright Eyes

Hungry Dog on the street by the Taxpayers - Big Yellow Taxi by Joni Mitchell

Excursion Around the Bay by Derina Harvey band - I am a Union Woman by Bobbie McGee

Jolene by Dolly Parton - Wild World by Cat Stevens

At Seventeen by Janis Ian - The Battle of New Orleans by Johnny Horton

Everybody's Talkin' by Harry Nilsson - Do you Believe in Magic by the Lovin Spoonful

Blackbird by the Beatles - Mr. Tambourine Man by the Byrds

Puff the Magic Dragon by Peter Paul and Mary - Blister in the Sun by the Violent Femmes

Ooh La La by the Faces - Ain't No Sunshine by Bill Withers

Tear the Facists Down by Woody Guthrie - Fire and Rain by James Taylor

Rule #4 Fish in a Birdcage by Fish in a Birdcage - Strangers by Apes of the State

Angel From Montgomery by Bonnie Raitt - I'd work for Free by Blake Rouse

I'm not a good person by Pat the Bunny - Ho Hey by the Lumineers

Lyndon Johnson Told the Nation by Tom Paxton - Pure Obsession by Mirabai Kukathas

Not Yet/Love Run by the Amazing Devil - Budapest by George Ezra

Diamonds and Rust by Joan Baez - Paradise by John Prine

What a time to be alive by Matt Press - Ballad of a Wobbly by David Rovics

Glad to be Gay by Tom Robinson Band - Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen

All The Trees of the Field Will Clap Their Hands by Sufjan Stevens? - Kill the Boy Band by She/Her/Hers

Every Town will Celebrate by Mischief Brew - Oak & Ash & Thorn by The Longest Johns

The Galway Girl by Sharon Shannon and Steve Earle - Curses by the Crane Wives

You're So Vain by Carly Simon - The Chemical Worker's Song by Great Big Sea

I'm Gonna Be an Engineer by Peggy Seegar - Follow Me up to Carlow by the Young Dubliners

American Pie by Don McLean - Murder in the City by the Avett Brother

Rhododendron Honey by Leslie Fish - The Fox by Nickel Creek

California Dreamin by the Mama's and the Papa's - Ohio by Neil Young

It's too Late by Carole King - There is Power in a Union by Billy Bragg

Have you ever seen the rain by Creedence Clearwater Revival - I ain't Marching Anymore by Phil Ochs

The Wrote and Writ by Johnny Flynn - Wayward Prodigal by Cora Reef

Landslide by Fleetwood Mac - Place to Be by Nick Drake

Space Girl by Shirley Collins - Little Lion Man by Mumford and Sons

Delta Dawn by Tanya Tucker - Where have all the flowers gone by Pete Seeger

Take Me to Church By Hozier - Solidarity Forever by Utah Phillipps

Let the Mystery Be by Iris Demont - Brave as a Noun by AJJ

A Horse with No Name by America - Mrs. Robinson By Simon and Garfunkel

Tom's Diner by Suzanne Vega - A Song for a Computer Programmer by Cricket!

War on the Workers by Anne Feeney - War isn't Murder by Jesse Welles

Me and my Bobby Mcgee by Janis Joplin - For What It’s Worth by Buffalo Springfield

You're Dead by Norma Tanega - The Gambler by Kenny Rogers

Color in your Cheeks by the Mountain Goats - March of the Jobless Corps by Daniel Kahn

Stick Season by Noah Kahan - O Valencia by the Decemberists

Fuck it by Days N Daze - Dream a Little Dream of Me by Cass Elliot

Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen - The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down by The Band

Deny Defend Depose by Joe Devito - Big Rock Candy Mountain by Harry McClintock

Annie's Song by John Denver - The Funeral by Band of Horses

Union Maid by the Almanac Singers - 32 Flavors by Ani Difranco

Our House by Crosby, Stills, Nash, And Young - Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

The War Racket by Buffy Sainte-Marie - Hurt by Johnny Cash

One Great City by the Weakerathans - Loose Lips by Kimya Dawson

Feed the Machine by Poor Man's Poison - Everything I Own by Bread

I want wind to blow, the microphones - City of New Orleans by Arlo Guthrie

Todos Juntos by Los Jaivas - II: The Road Giveth by RENT STRIKE

Roll On, Columbia, Roll On by the Highway Men - Ballad of Ho Chi Min by Ewan MacColl

Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison - Time in a Bottle By Jim Croce

The Trolley Problem by Windborne - One Kind of People by Amigo the Devil

Season of the Witch by Donovan - House of the Rising Sun by the Animals

The Times they are a changing by Bob Dylan - Cats in the Cradle by Harry Chapman

Closer to Fine by the Indigo Girls - Two Headed Boy by Neutral Milk Hotel

Heave Away by the Fables - Your Heart is a Muscle the Size Of Your fist by Ramshackle Glory

Who would Jesus Bomb by Jordan Snart - Electricity by Sister Wife Sex Strike

Rhinestone Cowboy by Glen Campbell - Plastic Jesus by Tia Blake

The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald By Gordon Lightfoot - Bread and Roses by Judy Collins

Sixteen Tons by Tennessee Ernie Ford - I'm a Believer by The Monkees

[patchworkcuddlebug]

Hello everyone! If you were/that one was linked here by one of this one's other stories, then check out the series that story was a part of under the Read More. The ones without links aren't posted yet, thanks for the patience!

As for its introduction: This one doesn't have a name, so you can call it whatever you like. Others have taken to "Patchy" or "Patches" from this one's url, and it likes that cute little nickname! This one also doesn't belong to a witch, but it would like to someday!

Here's a list that links and describes each tag that it uses for its reblogs:

#Lovely is one of its favourite words, for its favourite stories. #Comfort is for writings that this one feels express its purpose well. #Plush is for writings or art about plush dolls, like this one. #Pretty Doll is for pictures of dolls that this one likes. #Silly Doll is for funny posts that make this one giggle. #Wishful is for stories that make this one very happy. #Sorrowful is for stories that make this one very sad, but in a way it still enjoys. Otherwise this one wouldn't like it on its blog, of course.

This one posts its own writing in #this one's words, but now there's an easier way to find specific stories down below. This one's ask box is always open if you have any questions or criticism! Or for any reason, really. This one loves it when others talk to it, thank you for being so nice! It has decided to tag the asks it has answered with #helpful dolly.

Thanks for stopping by, enjoy your stay!

The Tea Dolls

Honey, the newest doll of the witch's manor, is having a hard time adjusting. Believe it or not, its biggest problem is the tea! At least, at first. Just Add Honey Tea Break Good Dolls Drink Tea This Is Working One's Compared Dollhood Spilling out Surface Tension

This one has also written some prequel stories revolving around how the other dolls became and adjusted. Humanity Dollhood Never to Return Human Error To The Ends of The Earth

Night & Day

A series about abuse, trauma, recovery. How does a doll cope with being given everything it deserves? This series is linked in intended reading order, but will be numbered in chronological order in parenthesis. Lunar Distance (5th) The Sorry Doll (2nd) As The Moon Breaks (6th) Jettison (3rd) Eclipse (4th) Solar Flare (7th) Sunrise (8th) Among the Stars (9th) Moonrise (1st) Supernova (10th)

The Dollwitch

A witch accidentally turns herself into a doll. How will it manage its new inclination? What will its coven think? Can it strike a balance between its two lives? The Doll Spell A Good Doll Introduces Itself Just For Now Cut From the Same Cloth

The Winding Lullaby

There isn't much of a central theme to these, this one just finds itself defaulting to these two when writing a nonspecific story about a doll and its witch. A Parasite Winding Down Little Lullaby Awoken Lulled to Sleep

Sharpening

An inexperienced thief is recruited to explore a dungeon, and teams up with a witch to survive. Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Weredoll

A disconnected series which features a person who, as the clock strikes midnight, becomes a doll.

Weredoll The Weredoll's Morning Revenge of The Weredoll Night of the Living Weredoll Weredoll: Alone

Guardian Angel

His agents are beings of perfection, meant to protect and watch over His children. But Zinlauriel's compassion clouds his judgement, and performs a miracle on the undeserving: a lowly doll.

Renewal Recourse Repurposed

One-Offs

While most of this one's writing is able to be enjoyed without knowledge of any other writings (at least, it hopes so…), these stories can't be categorized as having a connection to a greater plot. The exception is single directly connect prequels or sequels, which get a little "and" with the story they connect to.

Dollcalypse The Doll in My Brain and The Doll Invading My Brain Good Dolls Play Pretend and Good Dolls Don't Lie Head Mirror Like a Person notes Obedience The Rain Storm The Remnant Heart The Tea Experiment This One Still Has Fangs Title Pending (Madeline & Michelle) What's Best Words Unsaid

Shorter One-Offs

The original list was getting a little long, so stories under 1000 words will be sequestered here.

Always More (non-doll) At The Seams Conversation Empty Spaces Walk Into a Bar Playing Pretend The Prisoner Unbecoming Untitled Private Investigator Drabble

...golly, that's a lot, isn't it?

[billboard-hotties-tourney]

Round One Is Over

Thanks for participating in the first round of the Tantalizing Tunes Tourney! The surviving songs are:

“The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” by Gil Scott Heron

“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys

“La Vie En Rose” by Edith Piaf

“Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye

“Mirror Freak” by Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel

“Barracuda” by Heart

“The Boys Are Back In Town” by Thin Lizzy

“Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” by Gordon MacRae

“Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green

“Because the Night” by Patti Smith

“Time of the Season” by The Zombies

“Moonlight Serenade” by The Glenn Miller Orchestra

“Nobody Does It Better” by Carly Simon

“Layla” by Derek and the Dominos

“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin

“Bolero” by Maurice Ravel

“Si” by Gigliola Cinquetti

“Put the Blame on Mame” by Anita Ellis

“Simple Twist of Fate” by Joan Baez

“Love Hangover” by Diana Ross

“Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash

“I Want to Be Evil” by Eartha Kitt

“Cracked Actor” by David Bowie

“I Only Have Eyes for You” by The Flamingos

“Foxey Lady” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

“Beast of Burden” by The Rolling Stones

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA

“Black Magic Woman” by Santana

“Sexy Mama” by Laura Nyro

“Breakfast In Bed” by Dusty Springfield

“Crimson and Clover” by Tommy James and the Shondells

“You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” by Lou Rawls

“C’mon Little Mama” by The Guess Who

“Candy and a Currant Bun” by Pink Floyd

“You Sexy Thing” by Hot Chocolate

“Light My Fire” by The Doors

“Sugar Sugar” by The Archies

“Venus In Furs” by The Velvet Underground

“I Put a Spell on You” by Nina Simone

“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” by Carole King

“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye

“I Wanna Be Your Dog” by The Stooges

“You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” by Sylvester

“Sway” by Julie London

“Mack the Knife (Live)” by Ella Fitzgerald

“Lady Marmalade” by LaBelle

“Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall In Love)” by Ella Fitzgerald

“How Deep Is Your Love” by Bee Gees

“Beggin’” by The Four Seasons

“Love Machine” by The Miracles

“Magic Man” by Heart

“Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Fred Astaire

“The Jean Genie” by David Bowie

“Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered” by Ella Fitzgerald

“Chantilly Lace” by The Big Bopper

“You’re Getting to Be a Habit With Me” by Peggy Lee

“Moving In Stereo” by The Cars

“Sweet Transvestite” by Tim Curry

“Fever” by Peggy Lee

“I Just Want to Make Love to You” by Etta James

“I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” by The Beatles

“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

“Magic Carpet Ride” by Steppenwolf

“Summertime” by Ella Fitzgerald

“Jolene” by Dolly Parton

“December, 1963 (Oh What a Night)” by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

“Fire” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

“At Last” by Etta James

“The Crystal Ship” by The Doors

“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen

“Walkin’ After Midnight” by Patsy Cline

“Heartbreak Hotel” by Elvis Presley

“Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream

“Nightclubbing” by Iggy Pop

“These Boots Are Made For Walkin’” by Nancy Sinatra

“Paradise By the Dashboard Light” by Meat Loaf

“Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” by ABBA

“Summer Wine” by Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood

“Spring Affair” by Donna Summer

“Nights In White Satin” by The Moody Blues

“I Feel Love” by Donna Summer

“The Lemon Song” by Led Zeppelin

“I Don’t Know” by Ruth Brown

“I Was Made For Lovin’ You” by KISS

“Golden Years” by David Bowie

“La Vie en Rose” by Josephine Baker

“Get Down Make Love” by Queen

“One of These Nights” by Eagles

“Night Moves” by Bob Seger

“Misfire” by Queen

“I Put a Spell On You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins

“Why Don’t You Do Right?” by Peggy Lee

“Trampled Under Foot” by Led Zeppelin

“Crazy On You” by Heart

“Get Off” by Foxy

“Biding My Time” by Pink Floyd

“Daddy Cool” by Boney M

“Crazy Love” by Van Morrison

“Corazon Contendo” by Marisol

“Dream a Little Dream of Me” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

“My Heart Belongs to Daddy” by Eartha Kitt

“Moondance” by Van Morrison

“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

“Love to Love You Baby” by Donna Summer

“Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” by The Platters

“Stiletto” by Billy Joel

“Feeling Good” by Nina Simone

“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin

“Baba O’Riley (Live)” by The Who

“Whatever Lola Wants (Lola Gets)” by Sarah Vaughan

“Use Me” by Bill Withers

“Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” by Al Green

“If I Can Dream” by Elvis Presley

“Distant Lover” by Marvin Gaye

“Master Song” by Leonard Cohen

“You Belong to Me” by The Doobie Brothers

“Son of a Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield

“Since I've Been Loving You” by Led Zeppelin

“Por Una Cabeza” by Carlos Gardel

“20th Century Boy” by T. Rex

“Soul and Inspiration” by The Righteous Brothers

“Tell Me Something Good” by Rufus ft. Chaka Khan

“Rock Your Baby” by George McCrae

“Larks’ Tongues In Aspic, Pt. 2” by King Crimson

“The Masochism Tango” by Tom Lehrer

“Can't Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley

“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” by The Righteous Brothers

“My Melancholy Blues” by Queen

If you have something to say about any of these songs that you want featured in the Round Two polls, drop it in the inbox!

Round Two will begin on December 16th around midnight PST.

[billyjoelmutt]

United Universes Tour 2024! Piano Dog!

Dodger then at down at his piano and took a deep breath :). “Okay..here we go :)!”



He started to play the song and the ground shook from the cheering!!!

Dodger- It’s nine o'clock on a Saturday The regular crowd shuffles in There’s an old pony sitting next to me Makin’ love to her cider and gin :3!”

She says, “Son, can you play me a memory I’m not really sure how it goes! But it’s in outer space and in Grandpears place! When I wore a younger mares clothes"La la la, di da da La la, di da da da dum! Sing us a song, you’re the piano dog Sing us a song tonight Well, we’re all in the mood for a melody And you’ve got us feelin’ alright!!

Now Tramp at the bar is a friend of mine

He gets me my drinks for free And he’s quick with a joke or to light up your smoke But there’s someplace that he’d rather be He says, Dodge, I believe this is killing me” As the smile ran away from his face “Well I’m sure that I could be a disney star If I could get out of this place"Oh, la la la, di da da La la, di da da da dum!!

Now Twilight is an awesome princess Who saved Equestria again and again :3! And shes married to Sentry thats the marriage of the century And will never be unhappy ever again!!! :3

And Dolly is a teenage miracle! And Dylan is  the biggestest nerd! But yet they share a true bond of family! And always seem to lead the Dalmatian herd!

It’s a pretty good crowd for a Saturday And the imaginators give me a smile ‘Cause they knows that it’s me they’ve been comin’ to see To forget about life for a while And the piano, it sounds like a carnival And the microphone smells like a ciderbeer! And they sit at the bar and put bread in my jar And say, “Man, what are you doin’ here?“Oh, la la la, di da da La la, di da da da dum!

Audience-

Dodger ended it with tears in his eyes so glad to be here :’). And after all thats happened…:’)

Dodgers Piano rose into the air!!!!!

@thelittlemermaidfan1989

@mellowwpopper

@mellowwpuphub

@teen-lyoko-fan7777

@goldmudder

@andy-squirrel-and-friends

@askdj-timelord2

@keirastarlightdraconequus

(Song belongs to Billy Joel and characters belong to MLP and Disney and credits to MLP Disney and blogs tagged, credits to creators of video and images as well! )

[rockybloo]

Dolly: Rats tend to live for only 2 to 3 years

Rattle: What?

Dolly: Even though you're a jerk, I'm honestly gonna miss you when you're gone. Our fights were kinda fun 🥹

Rattle: I-I'M 18! I'M NOT DEAD YOU IDIOT

Dolly: Oh my god! It's a Christmas miracle 😭

Rattle: WHAT THE FUCK!?!?