#eek! wish me luck guys

[dormiloncito]

fighting for my life on microsoft 365

[naraven]

team comp: my edition!

stealing @throwaway-yandere's idea bc i thought it would be fun and i was brainrotting about scara/xiao anyways :D

my most recent 5 star is xiao, who is now level 90 with semi-leveled up talents! he's so fun i'm even more upset that i lost him to the 50/50 a year ago (i'm sorry diluc i don't hate you, but please stop coming home i just wanted the silly jumping adeptus,,,)

wahoo! here we gooo

wanderer / bennett

Probably didn't like Bennett AT ALL, most likely saw his bad luck as a nuisance to the rest of the group.

But then he saw Bennett just trying his best, fully-charged burst boosting him as he demolishes everything in his path (god i love his ult ily benny)

(He cares ok, I'm not taking constructive criticism this stupid puppet cares for people)

Bennett was scared of the wanderer as a whole at first: with his intimidating and somewhat quiet first impression, he gets even more scared when he laughs maniacally while turning a hilichurl camp to dust in a minute flat.

I think he probably admires his strength and Scara now becomes a semi-motivation for Benny to become stronger LOL

"I wish that kid would stop yelling so much. His shrieks are shrill on the ears. I'll probably get used to it after a while, what with his luck being as atrocious as it is."

"He's so strong! I'll admit the way he fights is somewhat terrifying, but I don't mind it as much anymore. It's cool to know that such a strong person is a part of Benny's Adventure Team!"

~~~

"Hey, kid, watch my back. I'm too busy to be watching yours."

"Wo-ah! Alright, go wild Mr. Wanderer!"

"Don't call me that."

"Eek! Yes, sir!"

wanderer / zhongli

Wanderer wouldn't know that Zhongli's the former geo archon, so his long monologuing about Liyue culture are just the ramblings of a guy who has an ancient soul.

Every once in a while, Wanderer will listen in on Zhongli's stories of the adepti or about the land they currently stand on.

I think Scaramouche would like the stories of the different flora and fauna (no this isn't about fall in fall his teapot lines have him admiring the Sumeru forests ok).

Zhongli finds the strange Wanderer to be somewhat of an enigma. From letters that the dendro archon sent him, his mental stability was not the best before he started traveling around Teyvat.

At first, he was careful to make sure the others were safe and that the Wanderer's temper wouldn't go out of control.

But the more he travels with him, he sees the care in his eyes when he picked up Bennett when the boy accidently tripped and almost fell off a low cliff.

In a flash, the Wanderer has the back of Bennett's shirt in a tight grip with two circles hovering behind his head.

"He talks so much, but sometimes that nonsense can be somewhat entertaining. I've learned more about Liyue in the short time I've been near him than I have in my centuries long life."

"His words are quite frank, but I have no worries that he will harm anyone that I care about. Even if he is often harsh and without filter, I will make sure he doesn't hurt anybody."

~~~

"Old man."

"Ah, apologies. I didn't realize we had already arrived. I will continue the story at a later date."

"No, keep going. We'll probably have to wait for that adeptus to save the kid from something on the way."

"Haha, of course. Then, where was I? I believe I was telling you about the followers of the goddess of salt..."

xiao / bennett

As usual, Xiao is cautious to be around normal humans; his karmic debt isn't great for them to be around for long.

But then Bennett happened, which caused those plans to throw itself down the chasm.

Is this human... doing this on purpose? The amount of times that the anemo adeptus had to save the unlucky boy has probably exceeded the number of years Xiao has been alive.

On the other hand, Bennett has actively tried to avoid getting into any difficult situations. He's scared that the adeptus will show up out of nowhere and hear him sigh for the nth time.

In return, he tries to make him almond tofu, which somehow ends up wrong in so many different ways (the pudding part is too hard, it's a bit misshapen, but when Xiao takes a bite it tastes like the sweetest of dreams).

"He's just like any other foolish mortal, putting himself in danger to prove his worth. But, in his case, I don't believe he's doing it intentionally..."

"I thought Adeptus Xiao would also be somewhat scary like the Wanderer, but he's really nice! Only when I don't trip and fall into the water again..."

~~~

"Adeptus Xiao! Do you wanna come with me to grab some Cor Lapis for Mr. Zhongli?"

"What for? This seems rather spontaneous."

"Well, I thought it would make a good gift! Besides, I think he wanted to get a bit stronger too."

"...Is that so? Very well then. I'll help you find some on Mt. Hulao."

bennett / zhongli

As the two supports of the team, they often sideline while the two anemo DPS go wild.

Bennett being the youngest of the team looks up to Zhongli, the oldest, and tries to listen to Zhongli as much as he can. He thinks it would help him in the future.

Of course, he learns a lot about the rich history of another nation, but Bennett finds himself becoming an overall better person to the people around him.

Zhongli also has a soft spot for the clumsy Mondstadtian boy. His optimism and bright outlook often has Zhongli smiling at the energy of the youth.

Rambles to him about rocks. Every single rock Bennett brings to him he could talk about for hours. Third-Round Knockout's storyteller has learned so much from these two eating meals there.

"Mr. Zhongli always has something and interesting to say! I've learned a lot from him and I want to be like him someday."

"As a child from Mondstadt, he's very free-spirited. Barbatos' people have no problem speaking their mind, which is very different from the mora-centered businesses of Liyue. I enjoy his company very much."

~~~

"Hey Mr. Zhongli! How are you today?"

"I'm doing alright. I was on my way to accompany the adeptus Xiao to Wangshu Inn. Would you like to come?"

"Wangshu Inn? Sure, I'm down! What for?"

"Just for a quick talk and visit. It won't take up too much of your time."

xiao / zhongli

Poor Xiao still isn't used to acting like Zhongli is a stranger, occasionally slipping up every once in a while and calling him "my Lord."

It just feels so... odd to be addressing him as anything else. Of course, he means well, he's trying his best to accommodate for his now-human Lord

Zhongli is glad to see Xiao doing well, despite his karmic debt. While he feels upset that he can't do anything to help with Xiao's pain, he tries to remind him to take his medicine every once in a while.

On the battlefield, they work as harmoniously as melody and harmony. As Xiao takes care of all the enemies, Zhongli is right beside him to make sure nothing catches him off guard.

(Not that Xiao needs it, but he's just happy that Zhongli is there :D)

"Ah yes, Rex-the consultant. I often find him talking to the director and more recently that young Mondstadtian. I wish that I could talk to him a bit more loosely, and yet..."

"Have you talked to Xiao recently? I worry he hasn't been taking his medicine recently. Perhaps I should go to Bubu Pharmacy myself sometime soon."

~~~

"My L- Zhongli. Bennett and that Wanderer are waiting."

"Ah, my apologies. Please tell them I might take a while longer. The bamboo and meat are simmering still."

"I will. However, while the Wanderer has yet to say he craves to eat anything, the mortal's stomach is grumbling..."

wanderer / xiao

(i purposely put this one last LMAO what do you get when you put two an-emos together on a team)

They might seem to get along, but they're the most tense on the team.

While Wanderer is often taking center stage, Xiao isn't a selfless offensive member either.

When they aren't competing to see who kills more enemies, they get into the pettiest of arguments.

Wanderer still retains the part of himself that likes to tempt people to becoming angry, and while Xiao knows that he still often scowls and glares at the other anemo vision wielder.

One time, Zhongli wanted them to get a bit closer by having them eat a meal together. When he came back, he found the food cold with Xiao unleashing attack after attack on the hovering Wanderer.

When asked, Xiao refuses to answer what happened and the Wanderer is smiling awfully.

"I find it hilarious when that adeptus tries to look at me. What is it about other long-living beings and finding me so suspicious? Maybe later I'll steal his kill again to see how he snaps back."

"That man is nothing but trouble. I heard from... Zhongli that he almost wrecked havoc in Sumeru. It doesn't help that he's often an insufferable brat-"

~~~

"Hey there Adeptus Xiao. Care to spare a moment with little ole me?"

"What do you want."

"Calm down, I just wanted to see if you knew where that pharmacy assistant was. The zombie one?"

"What are you planning?"

"Ugh, I regret asking you. You're like an overbearing mother."

"Come back, I asked what you were planning on doing to her."

"You know, if you asked nicely I would have given you the fight you wanted."

[yisanged]

i'm scared for the concert tomorrow guys eek.... at least i won't be up there long we only have two pieces. but the concert itself will be really long because all three band levels are doing a separate performance and then all three orchestra levels are doing separate performances. umm wish me luck that i don't play in a rest or something

[pineavley-blog]

THREE PAT #lifeupdate5

okkk so today i spent my (almost) whole day at hoomeeee😘😘😘

1. i woke up late (at 8 am) and missed the solat subuh HUFT ASTAGFIRULLAH ALLAH FORGIVE ME 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 tp zuzur tadi langsung wudhu kok tapi langsung kebelet jdnya eek dlu huhuuu

2. i had zoom meeting pembekalan kkn with pupr and unsoed and we zoomed till around 1 pm hehe I GOT 100 on post test (im cool)

3. when my zoom ended, welma came after kena php sm rs and she is stayed while waiting rain stops. i wash my baju kotor anyway

4. BTW IM WEARING IRENE SETS FROM TASIA BF'S STORE! this sets is so comfy and i think i will buy another one!

5. i almost skipped simulasi kebhinekaan huft and it was hectic CAUSE I HAVEN'T DOWNLOADED THE CBT APP YET but im trying my best AND ITS WORKING! i finished it well HUFT (thanks for bffs on tele, wish u luck guyss)

6. truss apa yaaa tadi seharian hujan trs baru reda pas magrib (keknya soalnya guweh tdur brooo) dan abis isyaaa me and enci went to indomaret and larizza to get our dinner food. THAT WAS LIT because we are the last people who bought there and the mas2 gave us extra tempe and es teh LMAO but thank u so muchhhhh

7. i also repurchased netflix 1 minggu from viola shop which i randomly found while scrolling zonauang on twitter. she's super kind and i promised i will be berlangganan there hehehe her netflix also murah banget omg HOW CAN I SHE SELLS NETFLIX 1U FOR ONLY 10K???? my nenek said she is penjual nabi for real

8. okkk and now im gonna continue king the land that i watched pas makan hehehe YOONA AND JUNHO CAKEP BGT SUEEEEEERRRRRRRR!!! tadi mereka ada rumor pacaran tp di tolak guys jd stoppppppppp ak sdih bgt

9. bonus I WATCHED LITTLE WOMAN AND CRYING HUHUU I LOVE THIS MOVIE

BYEEEEE bsk pagi haruska bgun pagi tuk antar enci and go to pelepasan kkn bcs im cool girl :*

[viciciciinn]

I'm just your helper, am I not?

Minister x vice minsiter

*normal school day*

-"n-no, I can't do it! I don't know how to talk to people, take notes or anything! I wont be a good helper for you-"

-"Believe me Val, you will be the best helper I ever had. Didn't you see the others? They did nothing but stand there picking their noses."

-"D..Do you seriously think so? That's a lot coming from you." she giggles saying that.

-"Okay are you going to help me or not? There is no going back if you don't want to fall from being the teachers favorite to being the student that no teacher believes in."

sigh.

-"Okay, if you want it so much. I'll do it, only for you tho."

-"Great, I'll tell the teacher." she winks saying that

-"..Oh god. C-can I do this? I don't think I even have a choice to go back..I, I can't!..HEY WAIT!..L-LILAC!!" she was gone already.

She felt an arm touch her

-"EEK!! M-MAY!? YOU SCARED ME!"

-"Aha, why are you such a scaredy cat? And what was going on? You were mumbling about something.."

-"...I um.."

-"Come on girl, spit it out."

-" I think im going to be the vice minister.." She groans like she was about to die, nothing but a helper at this point.

-"Ooo, a helper for her? Could be a start of a love story"

-"S-SHUT UP!!" She hits her, not hard tho.

-"Ahaha! Okay calm down..You guys would be a cute couple thoo~"

-"MAAAAAY!!" they keep running around while may was running for her life.

-"OKAY OKAY STOPP. IM SORRY!!" She starts giggling.

-"Why are you even blushing that much.... I just made a joke!" They were both out of breath. About to faint.

-"I.....ugh."

-"Okay she's coming, wish you luck with your new girlfriend~~"

-"UGH! MAY!!" she tried to yell but may already got away.

-" What's wrong Val? Don't you want to be the vice minister anymore?"

-"..." she knew her emotions were visible and showing that she was sad and trying to hide it. But how couldnt Lilac notice that?

-"Val?? Heyy?" ..

-" I really need to go, see you soon." She grabs her books and her bag, storming out of the class.

-" VAL!..." It was no use to yell.

-"...Did I do something wrong?.."

Val was near the entry, trying to brush off every negative feelings she had. But she couldn't, of course.

-"Why can't I just keep my emotions to myself." She starts sobbing, hoping no one will see her in this position.

-" *sniff* am I even a use to be the vice minister, I can't even talk to people normal without fukcing things up." Her phone starts buzzing..It's from Lilac, she doesn't answer it, trying to wipe the tears.

-"VAL WAIT UP!" It's May running after her, they did walk to school and back to their houses every day since grade 4.

-"!!" Val starts running faster. May doesn't understand what's wrong with her.. Was she mad?

-"VAL!? ARE YOU OKA-" Val turns to her looking mad with tear drops falling.

-"Oh, uh..Y-yeah I'm okay, sorry for that." She wipes her tears. (Shut up it's not cringe 🙁)

-".. Okay if you say so, shall we go home?"

-"..mhm." she nods her head and starts walking.

. . .

-"Okay see you Val." They were in the entrance of Val's house.

-"Oh, uh..Thanks for coming with me.."

-"..Sure, no problem at all."

May watches Val go inside so she could go back to her house.

*Val's house*

-"Oh, hi honey! How was school?"

-"Hi mom, yeah it was okay." She runs into her room after a little chat between her mom.

-"Dinner is read-.. Nevermind then."

*Val's room*

-"..Was I too mean?." She puts her back away and gets in her pjs, looking at her phone and..Oh?

-"Huh? Lilac..Called me and messaged me a lot.." She closes her phone as she sighs.

-"Guess I'll just go to sleep to feel better."

. . .

*Next day*

-"HUH!?... SHIT SHIT SHIT MY ALARM DIDN'T RING!" She starts running around to get ready, fast..

-".." Her eyes went straight to her phone, seeing so many unread messages from...Yeah Lilac.

-Val?

-Did I do something wrong?

-Are you okay?

-..Are you ignoring me?

-Please text me back im getting worried.

And much more with a "goodnight, stay safe." Message at the end of the notifications.

-"oh." she lets a slight groan while getting her bag.

-"I don't even want to talk to anyone after this, did I really make her that worried?"

"VALL!! YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE!" Her mom yelled downstairs.

-"I KNOW MOM!" She grabs her phone and runs downstairs.

-"Oh, Val I made your lunchbox for today since you forgot to do it tomorrow."

-"..Thanks Mom." She grabs her Lunchbox, ties her shoes and goes out.

-"oh." May didn't wait for her, she was heartbroken but who would care.

-"Guess ill walk by myself again." She starts walking to school.

*Class*

-"MAY I TOLD YOU TO WAIT FOR HER NO MATTER HOW LATE SHE I-"

-"Well I guess she's here now. Happy?"

-"..pft." Lilac looked annoyed from May.

-"Hi Vall!" May hugs her.

-"..Yeah, hi."

-"...Val you okay?" Asks Lilac, but gets no answer.

Val puts her bag away and starts sketching like no one talked to her

-"Uh..Heyy?? I'm right here." ..no answer.

-"Lilac, I think she wants to be left alone." Says May, but surely she's worried too.

-"Val, tell me what happened?" She puts her arm over Val's shoulder but gets pushed.

-"..." She walks away.

-"Shit, i guess that joke that I did yesterday really touched her.

-"Shut up May." Lilac was sad but didn't show it, she has to be strong or else it's no use.

-"..Damn alright."

Lilac goes after Val, she was curious about what was wrong with her.

-"Val."

-"!!..." Val starts running.

-"VAL STOP RUNNING AWAY!"

-"LEAVE ME ALONE LILAC!" She had angry tears forming as she ran away.

-"tch." Lilac runs after her.

*rooftop*

-"..." Val was sobbing.

-"Val.."

-"Didn't I tell you to go away and leave me alone." Her eyes were red.

-"." Lilac grabs her hand.

-"You know we're still in the same class right? No matter how much you're going to ignore me you will have to talk to me since you are the vice m-"

-"SHUT UP!"

-".." Lilac was shocked seeing her that mad.

-"JUST...SHUT UP, AM I ACTUALLY NOTHING ELSE THAN YOU THEN JUST A HELPER? IM NO USE TO YOU IN ANY KIND OF WAY, NO MATTER HOW HARD YOU WILL TRY I WILL NEVER BE THE PERFECT HELPER YOU NEED. STOP MAKING ME FEEL BETTER AND JUST...D-don't talk to me." Val realized how much she was yelling.

-" I- ....I'm sorry, i yelled too much..-"

Lilac hugged her.

-".. Don't be sorry."

-"...W-what are you doing."

-"It's alright to feel that, why didn't you tell me how you felt before? Instead of ignoring me you could've told me this earlier..I wouldn't want to make you do a job you didn't want..But still, didn't you want it yourself too?"

-"..." Val had no words for that.

-".." Lilac wipes Val's tears.

-"It's all okay now, you're more than my helper."

Note: AAAAA THIS WAS SO GOOD TO WRITEE!!

I've actually took this idea from my friend and me that is in the same class with me!

I really love writing stories but I could never find anything to write. And I don't know much about Turkish literature even tho I was born in Turkey. It was hard for me since our language exams were about writing and I messed it up a lot but English made me better since I really loved roleplaying and creating little stories for my OC's!

About my friend, she was the minister and I wanted to be the vice minister! Well yeah my anxiety did kind of mess things up for me in that time but I still had fun being a help for her.

(and yeah one time I did get hurt and ignored her for a day 💀)

<33

[not-xpr-art]

mini announcement

hey everyone! 

i thought i’d make a proper post about this, but basically i’m taking a break from posting art for a month (the whole of january)! just because i want to do art without the pressure of having to post every week or so for a lil bit... 

i’ll still be active on all my socials & will definitely still be posting on my main account (here), & my commissions are also still going to be open & i’ll still be doing art lol so... really not much is changing except i’m not going to be posting anything new here!

hope everyone had a fun & safe new years!! 

& i’ll see u all in feburary when i get back to posting more regularly lol

[marvel-fanfic-writer-8675]

Building the Bear

Pairing: Tony x reader

Warnings: fluff, little sadness that could technically be angst but not really

Summary: you and Tony visit Build a Bear because they have a new limited edition Bear

“Tonyyyy babeeeee!” You burst into the lab your husband was working in. “Friday, mute the music,” he turned to you, “yeah baby?” He held his arms out for the inevitable tackle you would give him. You ran into his arms and then looked up at him, “hi,” you smiled lovingly.

“Hi baby, what’s up?” You snuggled into him, “We’re going on a date.” He eyed you suspiciously, “we are? Well then, Mrs. Stark, where are we going to?” You smiled mischievously at Tony, “uh oh, I don’t like the look of that,” he joked. You ‘punched’ his shoulder, “build a bear workshop!” Tony hugged you tighter, “now why would you need a bear to snuggle with when you have me.” You gave him a kiss, “cause it’s an iron man bear, and sometimes, a certain super husband has missions and so the bed gets cold.”

Tony felt a little guilty, and you saw that he did, which made you feel bad about making him feel guilty. “Tones, hey, look, I love that you’re a superhero, you’re making the world safer, for me! If that means you aren’t here for a little while, then that’s alright, cause you make time for me when you are here, and that’s what matters.” Tony kissed you, “thank you Y/N,” his mood instantly became light hearted again, “now let’s go get this bear! And some gelato after, because I’m craving it!” Tony had leaned down signaling you to jump on so you did, and Tony piggybacked you to the car.

“Eek! Tones! Babe, there it is! It’s the iron man bear!” You rushed inside, dragging Tony with you. You got in and you immediately got sad, someone had just taken the last iron man bear. It was of course, some little kid, so it wasn’t like you could fight them for it. Tony saw and hugged you, “oh, babe, it’s alright, there’s another build a bear in the other mall, we can go there and see, alright pumpkin?” You nodded your head and walked with Tony back to the car, defeated.

Tony raced to the other mall, parked quickly and ran you both inside to the store. You got in and they had one bear left, so you quickly grabbed it. Then a little boy came in and peeked into the basket where the bears were and saw it was empty. “I’m sorry Issac, hey, maybe you can give your brother a different bear?” The little boy, Issac you assumed, looked up at his mom, “but mom! Iron man is Evan’s favorite superhero, it helps him stay strong through his chemo treatment.” The mom looked at the boy sympathetically, you just looked at the bear in your hands and back at the boy.

Tony saw you walking over to the boy, he wondered what you were doing for a second, but he’d also overheard the conversation. He knew what you were doing, and it reminded him of how kind you were. “Hey buddy, I heard you were looking for an Iron Man bear! I happened to find this one and it’s the last one, it’s like it was being saved just for you!” You handed the kid the bear, his face lighting up was enough to kill any regrets you had of giving it up. The mom was very grateful and explained the situation to you and thanked you once again. You headed back to Tony and grabbed his hand, leading him out of the store.

“Hey babe,” Tony stopped you outside of the store, you hummed and looked up at him. “I love you, I love how kind you are, and how you help those in need, and how selfless you are.” You smiled and leaned into him. “I know it was hard to give up the bear, I know how much you wanted one.” You squeezed his hand once, “I’ll be alright, I’ll live without it, like you said, I’ve got the real thing right here.” You guys headed home and watched a movie while cuddling on the couch.

The next day Tony told you he had meetings all day, you wished him good luck in all of them and set to work on your day’s tasks. Unbeknownst to you, Tony didn’t have any meetings, the ‘meetings’ were going to be him, scouring all the build a bears, trying to find one for you. You deserved the world, and if this bear would make you happy, Tony was going to get one.

It took him 12 different stores, and yeah, he was a little happy that, soooo many people wanted his bear but at the same time, he just wanted to find one for his girl. He finally found one and he bought it. He brought it home and hid it away in the car’s backseat. He then walked through the door to greet you.

“Y/N! Honey! I’m home!” You didn’t answer so he asked Friday where you were and she told him you were cleaning the bathroom with your music on. He walked in, to see you dancing to Back in Black and singing into the cleaning spray bottle. “Hi babe, oh don’t stop on my account, you look adorable.” You laughed and gave him a hug with a kiss. “Hey, babe, how about we go eat dinner out tonight, I was thinking that pizza place on 5th, you know, the one with the good crust.” You agreed very quickly, remembering how much you loved that pizza place.

You both headed to the car after finishing up with the bathroom, and when you slid into the passenger seat you caught a glimpse of the box the bear was in. “Hey, Tones, what’s the box in the backseat? Did you forget to bring some of the groceries in again?” Tony pulled the box out from the back, “nooo, I got you something.” You opened the box and pulled it out. “Oh my god, Tony! Thank you, where’d you even find this?” Seeing you smile was worth all the trouble he went through, like he thought. “I had to go to the next city over, but they had a few left there so I picked one up.” You gave him a huge hug, “you didn’t have any meetings did you?” He shook his head and you chuckled, “thanks again babe, I really appreciate it, love you.” Tony was about to say it back, but his stomach interrupted him, “well, I guess we should go eat huh? Love you too babe.” With one final kiss, you both headed to eat pizza with your new family member, Iron Bear.

[beanieman]

Shinalice Fic: Bongo’s (Or What If Shin Helped Alice On His Bongo Quest?)

How the hell did he get involved with this? Reko's tokens sit exposed on the table. All he has to do is swipe them and take them to Alice.

When Alice defended him during the main game, he knew it would come strings attached. And boy did it.

Shin wanted a moment of peace. After the awful main game, he needed time alone. The bedrooms were as good as anywhere to take a breather and strategize his next move.  It was nice to have a moment of quiet. Well, until Alice barged in with a look of fierce determination.        

"Sou Hiyori!! I have something to say about Reko!!"

Shin nearly fell off the bed as Alice threw the door open. What would Alice want with him? About Reko no less?

"Alice?! W-what's wrong?"

"Have you talked to the man at the prize exchange yet? Because I have!  It appears... there is a secret prize menu! And they're selling Reko's treasure!"

"A secret menu?! Did you buy something off of it?!"

"It appears 20 of Reko's Me-Tokens are required to buy her treasure. Oddly it seems like she's the only one who has a treasure to receive...What do you think the treasure might be?"

"I don't know Reko well. She mentioned losing her bongo's when we first met. If that's not it, then..."

"Bongos?! Inconceivable! Do you know the name of Reko's band? You don't look like you enjoy the sound of rock."

"...Well, you're right."

"The guitar and hellish vocals were performed by Reko!! While I filled the role of the guardian deity of drums who protects the band's backs! I gave her bongo's as a joke gift in our band days. As expected...she was indifferent. To call those bongo's her treasure? Don't make me laugh."

"She seemed upset about losing them...You're her brother. Even if you fight, you still love her, right? Could it be she feels the same? You should buy the treasure. Even if it's not the bongo's, it could be a clue to escape."

Shin had no place to speak. He's an only child. His only concept of sibling dynamics comes from tv and people watching. But his words worked. They worked a little too well.

"Sou Hiyori, if you believe that, assist me in getting tokens from Reko!"

"Wait-what-"

"I don't have the nerve to get the tokens myself...I can't do it! I can't speak to her!"

"Hold on-Reko won't give them to me."

"You're a shady rascal! Can't you swipe them?! I'll talk to Nao Egokoro in the meantime!"

Alice walked away before he could answer. He doesn't want to get punched out by Reko...but he owes Alice the worst type of debt. If he helps Alice now, Alice can't bring up how he defended Shin in the main game later.

Sara has Reko distracted for now. Something about a vending machine. But it doesn't matter because it gives him just a chance he needs to pocket Reko's tokens before she gets back.

He slips them into his jacket just as Reko returns from helping Sara. She wears a harsh scowl that isn't uncommon for her to have when she talks to Shin. But something seems different. Reko looks more aggressive than usual. No wonder Alice didn't want to get the tokens himself.

"What the hell are you doing, beanie bastard? Get out of here and stay away from Kanna while you're at it. Got it?!"

Shin darts into the hallway and knocks on Alice's door before Reko can track him down. He feels a sense of pride to swipe the tokens without notice, even if it was because of a rare stroke of luck.

Alice swings the door open, clearly expecting his return.

"Sou!! Did you get them?!"

"Yeah. Ahaha, Reko didn't see me take them. You should hurry up before she notices they're gone."

"Right! I can't do it...Urgh, if only I were as troublesome as you, this would be easier! I can't back down now. I won't let this opportunity pass me by! ....Eek! No, I can't do it! No, I'll push forward!"

Alice runs off towards the prize exchange, leaving Shin alone. What a strange guy.

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

It's been half an hour since Alice went to retrieve the bongos. He should stay out of this. It's a family matter between Alice and Reko. But god, is he curious. Leaving his room, he walks off towards the lobby. He expects to find Alice and Reko sat in the chairs, happily chatting and making up for the lost time.

But the lobby is empty, and pieces of broken wood lay shattered on the floor. Are those pieces of the bongo?!

Shin gathers as many pieces as he can before going to Alice's room.

Through the door, he hears soft sniffling. Is Alice crying?! What's he supposed to do?

He should leave the bongo pieces and run. He's never been good at comforting people. But something compiles him to twist the knob. He tells himself it's so that Alice doesn't turn on him. That he's this for his survival, but that's not the truth. The truth is he's worried about Alice.

The door isn't locked and clicks open. Alice looks alarmed to see Shin standing there. He wipes his tears quickly but doesn't bother putting on a fake smile.

"Uh, I found bongo pieces on the floor. Do you want them?"

"...Lay them on the desk."

Shin complies, trying to find the words to say. He wants to ask what happened, but he can already piece the picture together.

"Alice, are you okay?"

"Reko... hadn't changed at all. At least... not when she's around me."

"She can...be harsh."

"No. It's my fault. I made her and our parents suffer for so long...Reko doesn't owe me forgiveness for my crimes."

"I'm sure you had a good reason to do what you did...the person you killed could have been a terrible person. So don't hold guilt over it. Things happen, and you have to move on. Ahaha, not that I would know anything about your case..."

"I appreciate the sentiment..."

"Erhm. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"...Sit with me for a while. Mwhaha, I'll tell you more about the legendary band Samurai Yaiba!"

Alice doesn't hide his feelings well. Despite his words, the loneliness of this situation is plastered on his face. If he wants Shin to stay...he can do that.

"Okay...you said you played the drums?"

"Yes, but I wasn't good at them. I was only there to even the numbers...I did better work as a manager."

As Alice rambles about his old band, Shin wishes this story had a better outcome. That Reko had accepted the bongos and happily welcomed Alice back into her life. He understands Reko's choice, but seeing Alice distraught...bothers him.

He'll sit and talk as long as Alice needs. Even if they chat throughout the night, that will be okay. It's the best he can do, but Alice seems to appreciate it. His face lights up a little with every word.

Maybe he'll try to put the bongos back together. Reko might accept them after some time to calm down. But would Alice want to go through that again? Well...he has plenty of time to plan. The laptop is his biggest priority, but he'll do his best to help if he has any spare time.

Even if Reko is apprehensive to bond with him, Alice doesn't have to be by himself. As two loners, they can be alone together. Maybe if he can hack the laptop and help everyone escape...Reko will be in a better mood and forgive Alice for the past.

He'll do everything he can to reach that goal. And maybe one day, even see Alice on stage as he performs with Reko in a new band. It's a goal to push towards, and for the first time since this started, Shin feels a glimmer of hope for the future.

[sneezyminniejo]

I really want an allergic Taehyun fic after all the recent clips! Maybe he's in denial or downplaying it, but after sneezing through promotions for a week, the members are like, actually, you might need some help with this etc. and provide some caretaking. Love all your fics!

Here it is. Hope you enjoy

It Started with an Itch

Winter had just ended, and this year Taehyun was wishing that winter could just stick around a bit longer. It appears the second youngest of TXT had developed a pollen allergy, and he just did not want to deal with it. He had spent the past couple of days with an extremely itchy nose, wondering why he hadn't started sneezing yet. However he was also thankful that he had yet to start sneezing because he didn't want to worry his members. Particularly since his sneezes sounded like coughs.

When he rolled out of bed in the morning, Taehyun found that the tickling sensation in his nose had grown much more intense. "Heh-ugh, ischh, heh-stishhh." Taehyun groaned as the fit only lessened the itch and didn't make it go away. He grabbed a tissue and tried to blow his nose, only to cause the tickle to intensify once more. "Hih-tiew, hep-tschh." Thankfully, his sneezes were quiet enough, he didn't wake up his roommate Kai. Taehyun left his room knowing it would be a long day of trying to get through comeback promotions without sneezing too much.

What Taehyun hadn’t been counting on was Soobin walking past his room as he was having his sneezing fit. "Taehyunnie, that cough didn't sound great. Are you feeling okay? He asked as he felt the younger's forehead. Taehyun nodded. "It was just a little tickle hyung, I'm fine." Soobin wasn't sure whether to believe the younger, but he didn't feel warm. Soobin decided not to push the issue.

The beginning of breakfast hadn't been particularly interesting. Yeonjun had made the group scrambled eggs and toast. Taehyun, whose nose was still incredibly itchy, made the mistake of putting pepper on his eggs. "Heh-ugh, ischh, heh-stishhh, heh-istiew." That last one was kind of wet, so he quickly grabbed a napkin to clean himself up. When he finished, he found four pairs of eyes on him.

"Guys, I'm fine, the pepper just got to me is all." Soobin and Yeonjun just raised an eyebrow each at the statement. "Hyung, if you don't believe me, feel free to take my temperature." Yeonjun took the younger up on his offer. Like Taehyun said, his temperature was completely normal. Taehyun isn’t sure why he doesn’t just admit that he’s developed an allergy to pollen, but in his mind it’s easier to to not admit anything and let everyone come to their own conclusions. Either way Taehyun was fully prepared to dodge any questions about his health.

Sadly for Taehyun, there wasn’t enough time in the morning for him to look through their medicine stash for even a meager decongestant, so he was stuck trying to keep his nose under control as much as he could without help. As such the car ride to the radio station was full of a bunch of sniffling from the second youngest who was trying his hardest not to sneeze.

Beomgyu thankfully had a travel pack of tissues and offered it to Taehyun, who gladly accepted it. A few seconds after Taehyun got the tissues, they pulled up to the radio station. Taehyun got out of the car as quickly as possible and booked to the nearest bathroom. Taehyun locked himself in the nearest stall, and unleashed what he couldn't hold back anymore.

"Heh-ugh, ischh, heh-stishhh, heh-istiew, HEH-ISTIEW, HUH-UGHIEW." Taehyun used the toilet paper in the stall to blow his nose, as he wanted to save the tissues for later. "Those sounded like they hurt hyung" Taehyun startled at the sound of Kai addressing him.

Taehyun opened the stall door with his nose still firmly buried in the toilet paper. "Hyung, I don't think you should sing today. Those coughs sound like they're doing a number on your throat." "I'm fine Kai, no need to worry." Taehyun quickly cleaned himself up before leaving the bathroom and joined the others in the radio room. Yeonjun gave Taehyun a pointed look while handing him a mask. Taehyun rolled his eyes, but put the mask on nonetheless because he was still unwilling to admit it was allergies.

The radio interview didn't go well. Taehyun repeatedly had to turn away from the mic in order to sneeze, and Soobin insisted on doing his part. Admittedly, by the end of the interview, Taehyun was exhausted and wanted to go to bed. When they all got into the car to go to the company building Soobin announced "I've arranged with manager-nim to adjust our schedules a bit so that Taehyunnie can get some rest." Soobin then looked over at Taehyun, "you don't even have to partake in the live when we get to the building of you're not up to it." Taehyun shook his head. "Hyung, I'm fine to do the live. I j-just ne-need t-tschh, istchh to take some medicine and let moa know that I'm going to be a bit sneezy." The others knew that Taehyun was being adamant about this and wouldn't budge, so they relented.

The hour long live went about as well as anybody expected. Taehyun had three sneeze fits that were longer than his usual double or triple. After the third fit, which was particularly messy, Taehyun had to excuse himself to find some tissues. Shortly thereafter the live ended and the members went back to their dorm for dinner.

The members were discussing what to eat and Beomgyu had suggested soup since Taehyun was sick. "Hyung, I want gimbap for dinner." Taehyun whined. "Taehyunnie, you're sick and soup is the best thing to eat when sick. Taehyun was fed up at this point and didn't want to be treated like he was sick, so he finally decided to admit what was wrong.

"I'm not sick." Everyone gave Taehyun a pointed look, not believing him for a second. Taehyun was about to speak further, but felt the all too familiar prickling in his sinuses. He quickly grabbed a handful of tissues. "Heh-ugh, ischh, heh-stishhh, HEH-ISTIEW. It's allergies." Taehyun blew his nose rather productively.

The members decided to take Taehyun's word for it as the pollen count was unusually high, and they knew some idols with mild allergies who were suffering as well. They figured if he was sick, he would fess up eventually. The pollen count was also expected to drop in a day or two, so if it is allergies, symptoms should clear up soon.

The rest of the week was much of the same. Taehyun was, for the most part, a sniffly and sneezy mess. It has gotten to the point that the others were considering talking to the manager about removing him from their schedule until his symptoms calmed down or he saw a doctor. However, they let it slide until Friday.

Over the course of the week, the pollen count had indeed gone down. However Taehyun’s sneezing had not gone down any, if at all. In fact, it seemed to be getting worse. By Friday, Soobin made the executive decision to call the company doctor to look over Taehyun and hopefully give some advice on treating the now apparent cold symptoms.

Taehyun was still adamant that it was allergies, primarily due to the fact that his symptoms lined up more with allergies than a cold or flu. When the doctor arrived, he gave Taehyun a thorough examination and also came to the conclusion that it likely wasn’t a cold. Now the only question was, what is Taehyun allergic to?

The group began tearing up the dorm trying to find a potential cause. They initially made Taehyun sit on the couch, but didn’t have much luck. They then decided to sit down and try to map out where Taeyhun’s symptoms were the worst, as that would probably pinpoint the location of the allergen.

All the discussion revealed is that the allergen was most likely primarily in the dorm. Taehyun’s sneezing and sniffling was the worst at the dorm, and calmed down a little when they went to their schedules, only to pick back up upon arriving home.

“Okay guys, what was added to the dorm about a week ago when Taehyunnie started sneezing?” Yeonjun asked, ready with a pen and paper in case there was a list “Two w-eeks hyu-itschh, itschhiew. It was closer to two weeks hyung. I spent about a week with an insanely itchy nose before the sneezing started.” The other four members looked a bit stunned at the confession of suffering for a whole week while flying under the radar.

After Taehyun admitted that the timeline was closer to two weeks instead of one, Soobin noticed his oldest dongsaeng beginning to look a bit guilty. “Beomgyu-yah, do you have any ideas about Taehyun’s allergies?” Beomgyu nodded. “Around two weeks ago I bought a bunch of those plug in air fresheners.” Beomgyu looked extremely apologetic as he ran around the dorm collecting all of them. Yeonjun went to do laundry to get the scent out of all the bedding and clothing, Kai went to open the windows, and Soobin decided to get started on lunch.

With everything cleaned and aired out, Taehyun was nearly symptom free by dinner time. Thus confirming Beomgyu’s suspicion of the air freshener being the cause. He felt a bit guilty still over making his dongsaeng sick, even though Taehyun repeatedly told him there wasn’t anything to be sorry about as no one knew about the allergy including himself. Nonetheless, Beomgyu decided to make it up to his dongsaeng by doing his chores for the next month.

[kaminobiwan]

soft sorrow

pairing: obi-wan kenobi x jedi!reader

summary: In the final year of the Clone War, you receive devastating news.

warnings: Your friends be dyin :-(

a/n: Phew, lots to cover here. So, this is part of my follower milestone celebration, prompted by the word “hush” by @leel-lol. But, I thought it tied in with an idea I already had planned for my jedi!reader continuity, so I decided to go ahead with this release earlier than expected! The story will be fleshed out in later fics, but this is still in line with my other jedi!reader inserts. Basically, I introduce your Padawan then immediately take him away (eek). But like I said, this idea was in my head for a long time! We’ll get to know him after already knowing his fate so it’s kind of like The Clone Wars?? Anyways, this was also my first time attempting angst. I had an...interesting time trying it out. Thanks again for submitting requests and riding along!

taglist

He doesn’t know what to call it. Fate. The will of the Force. It’s not luck, not by any measure. He knows you’d never call it luck.

But for whatever reason, you’re alive and in his arms right now thanks to a crash landing that had exploded your starfighter post-firefight. One that had broken several bones and bought you a week in a bacta tank two days before you were scheduled to ship out with your troops to reconquer Felucia, and Jado Jissard, eager to be reunited with his former legion, had happily assumed substitute command in your absence.

Your former Padawan. Freshly knighted and kind to a fault. War had taken the waning years of his childhood, but his youthful innocence was unyielding despite the hardships — much like his Master.

You hadn’t been conscious when they’d departed, but Jado had caught Obi-Wan before he’d left and asked him to pass on a message:

“Tell her I’ll take care of the guys. This’ll just be like old times for us.” The excitement on the young boy’s face resonated with a fatherly affection within Obi-Wan that had reminded him of his own beloved student. “We’re gonna make her proud!”

That had been a month ago.

Long before you’d been pulled out of suspension and had since accompanied Obi-Wan on the Vigilance, making a speedy recovery while still assisting him with the attack plans for the rest of the Outer Rim Sieges. You’d been awaiting news anxiously ever since Jado had failed to check in.

The call had come in the middle of you and Obi-Wan poring over defense strategies with Cody, a flickering holo humming to life in the middle of the room. He’d felt your Force signature flicker in distress as the information broke.

Your entire legion, your old Padawan — they were gone, confirmed dead by Aayla Secura after she’d been sent to reinforce them.

Not just dead, but gone — wiped out. Aayla hadn’t elaborated much about what remnants she’d found of the 182nd before you’d turned on your heel with frightening calm and walked out of the briefing room. But Obi-Wan had known what his fellow Master had meant by the grim declaration.

There would be no bodies for you to bury.

He’d followed your retreat to his quarters without a second thought, trailing far enough to give you space but still close by in case you fell over from the onslaught of despair he could feel palpably surrounding you.

It wasn’t until you’d reached the privacy of his cabin that you feel to your knees, hands scrabbling at the floor for purchase. Obi-Wan was at your side immediately, his proximity to your grief choking him.

For a moment, you’re too shell-shocked to make a sound, but once the first tear escapes past the dam behind your eyes, you finally let out several sobs of bewilderment and he reaches for you as you begin to break.

“I should have been there,” you gasp, hot tears streaming down your cheeks in rivulets, and Obi-Wan tries to wipe them from your face with his thumbs before giving up and cradling your head into his aching chest. “I should have — should’ve stopped them — no, no, no!”

He clutches you tighter to him as you begin to wail, hearing the unspoken question humming amidst your sorrow. Why? Why them?

Why not me?

Obi-Wan’s heart pangs, but for a different reason. He forces away the minute relief that he’s holding you and not mourning you, willing the loud agony of such a great loss to leave your body and transfer to his. He wishes he could carry the weight of this burden for you, but he can’t.

He can only rock with you as you endure the assault of the anguished reality, and pray to the Force that your heart — warm, loving, and willingly vulnerable — will recover.

Names fill the air, but he’s not sure if you’re speaking them between your cries or if your thoughts are materializing in his own mind. He listens, recognizing them in your strangled voice, and it sinks into his bones that these are people he’ll never see again.

Pax. Marrt. Locke. Zed.

Jado.

It doesn’t feel right to quiet you. You should deservedly release your misery out loud, given that your endless compassion has always been forcibly subdued, no matter that the walls of the Venator wouldn’t be enough to muffle it. But he can feel you slipping, and he won’t let you descend into hysteria. He can at least give you that.

“Shh,” he hushes you, gently stroking your hair with his lips to your crown. “I’m here. I’m here.”

A hand finds yours and your fingers are a vice around his, but it gives him a spark of hope. If he can be the tether to ground you, he will.

“I’m so sorry.”

Obi-Wan knows he can’t take your pain. But he’ll cradle you until you exhaust yourself from crying, and let you wallow in your sadness even after.

Once you leave his room, you’ll steel yourself into the image of a perfect General, one the Order expects you to be. You’ll carry on with the weight of your responsibility, hiding your heavy heart from everyone, including yourself.

But he hopes that now, as you subside in his embrace, you’ll let him ease the strain ‘til it’s bearable. That you’ll allow yourself the freedom to feel, just as you have shown him to do.

He wants to be that for you.

“I’m here,” he chants again, and you hold on to his words like a lifeline.

[sunnybeas]

saints in chains

Chapter One of Saints In Chains- wait out the plastic weather

summary:  Gavin meets Connor's little brother and finds out love at first sight is real  

cross posted on ao3

The first time Gavin Reed sees the RK900 he doesn’t have time to really look at him. It is an active crime scene that’s taking up the entire street and Gavin holes himself behind the barricade with Chen at his side. Teeth grit and hand sweating as he gripped his handgun, he only sees a white blur stride by and hoist itself over the barricade.

A curse is halfway out of his mouth because of course a civilian would get cocky and bolt but no- the damn thing rips the door off the hinges of a car and surges forward. And Gavin is sitting there, mouth open, in full view of the shooter. He drops down beside Chen again, who is equally as fucking gob smacked.

“Did you fucking see that?” Gavin demanded.

“Of course, I did! Did Fowler hire a fucking Terminator? What was that?” she asked back, rolling to her knees to peek over the car again.

Gavin scooted in next to her, eyes squinted. He felt like an idiot, gawking at the figure in white sprinting forward, car door acting as a shield and taking all the spray. It takes a leap and absolutely bodies the shooter, tossing the car door aside like a dinner plate. Its hand crunches the AK in its hand, and it misfires in the shooter’s hand. The fucker screams as the figure lifts him and slams him onto the concrete, knee on his back, hands pinned there securely.

“Holy shit, holy shit, holy shit- “Gavin chanted, because the figure looks up and he’s half fucking sure he recognizes Connor’s smug little face. It’s different, though, and Gavin can’t quite pinpoint how because of the distance.

“Well done, see, I knew he’d do well.”

And that- that’s Connor’s peppy voice from behind him. Frowning, Gavin spins on his heel.

“What the fuck is happening here?” He asked, sharply.

Connor and Anderson were dressed all up in their vests. Gavin snorted at the sight of Connor in his. He had seen the android take more bullets than he could count. Had almost put one in him more than a few times.

The LED in Connor’s temple spins yellow briefly. “He has minor abrasions. Otherwise a near perfect introduction.” He smiled, too fucking bright and cheerful for Gavin, who was getting sick just looking at him.

“Con, dear, sweetheart, love, please make sense. What was that?” Chen finally cut in.

“My brother.” Connor replied simply, punctuating it with that dopey smile of his. His big ole doe eyes lifted past them and he rocked on his heels before starting forward.

Gavin turned to follow when he caught sight of their blur. And holy fuck. Holy shit, Gavin didn’t think they built androids like that. Connor’s ‘brother’ was a massive specimen, towering over the shooter, eyeing the suspect wearily with eyes so pale they may as well have been white.

It takes Gavin about five seconds to deduce that this thing, this android, was basically Connor on steroids. If that were something they could do, anyway. He was taller, a good foot or so, and he was fucking jacked, his arms thicker, shoulders broader. He looked scary as shit, his jaw sharper, wider, his eyes set in deeper and looking down at them all with those dead looking eyes.

He was hot. Like really, insanely, one of the hottest things Gavin had ever seen. And he hadn’t even looked his way yet. But he couldn’t tear his eyes away from him. It. Whatever.

“Holy shit, just take a picture for your spank bank, creep.” Tina scoffed, elbowing him sharply.

“Chen, shut the fuck up.” Gavin hissed, his neck and ears burning at being caught checking out a fucking android. One with Connor’s face too.

The statement seemed to gain the android’s attention, though, because he looked up from Connor and stared directly at Gavin. Gavin couldn’t get a read on him, couldn’t eek the slightest bit of emotion from the thing’s blank ass face. His pale eyes flickered briefly over Gavin, almost sizing him up. Head tilted, eyes half lidded, the android regarded him for more than a few seconds. It was deliberate. Was it trying to intimidate him?

“RK?” Connor’s voice broke through and the android looked away from Gavin, finally, to return his attention to Connor.

“Shit, shit, shit.” Gavin cursed, turning on his heel to Chen. “Come on, we don’t need to be here anymore. Thing one n’ two got it.”

They started back to Chen’s patrol car. She widened her stride to keep up with how fast Gavin was walking.

Chen tossed her head back to laugh. “Look at you, lil’ Gavin Reed running scared from some sexy robot. Gav, did you see his pecs? Or his arms? Why did they give an android an ass that- “?

Gavin groaned. “I fucking saw! Cyberlife’s a bunch of fucking perverts. Holy shit, Tina.” He scrubbed his face with his hand.

Tina clambered into the driver’s seat, grinning. “He better be at the station.”

And fuck- Gavin hadn’t even considered that.

-

As luck would have it, God fucking hated Gavin Reed. He had just settled into his desk when Connor came striding in, Anderson at his side and leading their perp and the fucking Iron Giant trailing behind. Immediately Gavin looked towards Chen, who was practically vibrating in her seat. She shot him a grin and a wink before standing up from her seat.

Anderson spoke lowly to Connor before nodding and taking the perp to the back. Which left Connor standing there with his grumpy looking twin. Chen chose this moment to strike.

“Hey, Connor, who’s this?” She asked.

Connor beamed, clearly tickled fucking pink that someone was taking an interest in his little pet project. He lifted a hand and gestured to the android beside him. “This is RK, my little brother. He moved here and Fowler offered him a position. Today was his trial. I’m fairly sure he exceeded Fowler’s expectations.” Connor reported, absolutely glowing with pride.

Gavin snorted at his desk. Little? Little wasn’t a word to describe that ‘droid.

“I’m Tina Chen, nice to meet you.” Chen offered her hand, smiling politely in that way of hers. Tina brought out the good in everyone.

The android hesitated, studying her hand before taking it and shaking it carefully. “Nice to meet you, Officer Chen.” And oh- his voice was Connor’s but pitched lower.

It sounded surprisingly good. Fuck. Gavin hated him. Hated his pretty, stupid face.

“Gav, come say hi to the new guy!” Chen called, turning to face him with a wide, smug smile on her face.

Gavin decided he hated her too. No more coffee runs or donuts for her. She was dead to him.

“I’m good.” He said, instead.

Connor frowned. The big guy didn’t do anything, just stared. Shit.

“RK and Hank are going to be interrogating the shooter. I’ll be reviewing the footage if anyone has any need for me.” Connor informed Tina.

“Gavin and I can help with that!” Tina blurted out.

Connor blinked, clearly surprised. “You want to help me?” His eyes flickered uncertainly to Gavin, who was making a face, his middle finger up and pointed to Connor.

“I want to see that asshole getting his up close and personal.” Tina said. “Reed won’t admit it, but he does too.”

Gavin again held his middle finger up, though neither Connor or Tina were looking his way. He, instead, caught the attention of RK. And Gavin swore, he fucking swore, he saw the flicker of a smile on his face.

“Okay, that’s fine then.” Connor was still uncertain, but Tina was insistent.

He wasn’t sure why until they were seated all together, huddled up in front of the screen.

Seeing it from afar had been one thing but holy shit, seeing RK900 in action up close was a whole different experience.

“Holy shit.” Gavin rasped out, watching as he ripped the car door with his bar hands from the hinges. He sat tall in his seat.

RK hadn’t stopped, hadn’t faltered once as the shooter had let loose a barrage. He had just driven forward, expression drawn, brow furrowed. And then he had crushed the barrel of the gun like it were made of cheap plastic, ignoring the blast of the misfire and splatter of thirium on his open palm. He lifted the perp up by the coat.

“God, I wish that were me.” Gavin murmured, sinking into his seat. His eyes tracked how fluidly RK moved.

Tina choked out a laugh from beside him. “You’re a fucking mess.”

Connor frowned, so severely that his stupid forehead dented in from the faux wrinkles.

“Please don’t objectify RK in front of me.” He requested, weakly.

“Connor, where the fuck have you been hiding my teenage wet dream from?” Gavin demanded, emboldened by RK’s absence.

Connor’s head bowed and he rubbed at his temples needlessly.

“Gavin, that’s his baby brother!” Tina chided, smacking at his arm, though she wore a broad grin on her lips. She loved Gavin when he was in a mood like this.

“Baby brother my fucking ass, look at him- “

“You wish he were fucking- “

“I am literally begging you to stop.” Connor interjected.

“Listen, I’m trying to do some begging myself here, Connor, so help me out here.” Gavin continued.

Connor let out a pained groan and dropped his head completely into his palms in the same moment Tina let out a cackling laugh, her head tossed back.

“You’re intolerable.” Connor accused, shaking his head as he stood up. “I brought this for research purposes, and you’ve ruined it.”

“Wish your brother would ruin me.” Gavin mumbled.

Connor paused, his LED blipping red before he promptly turned on his heel and strode quickly out of the room. In his absence, the two dissolved into laughter.

“I think you broke him this time. Anderson is gonna be on your ass for traumatizing his boyfriend.” Tina snorted, wiping tears from her eyes.

Gavin reached forward and rolled the vid back, taking extra care to watch how RK had lifted the man with absolutely no effort. Oh. This might become a problem.

“If you’re done, Fowler wants to speak to you.” Connor poked his head around through the door again, frowning sourly at the screen and where it had paused.

Gavin sighed and forced himself to his feet. He tossed the remote Chen’s way.

“It’s not going to be as much fun without you.” She complained.

“Just enjoy the eye candy, Chen.” Gavin shrugged, following Connor down the hall.

Just looking at Connor, the differences between he and his younger counterpart were drastic. Their faces were eerily similar but RK’s had a sharpness where Connor’s was soft. Connor was clearly meant to assimilate where RK looked the complete opposite. Like he was meant to be identified as an android. What had he been made for that he was built that mean looking?

Hands shoved into his pockets; Gavin turned to the door of Fowler’s office. Knocking twice, he stepped in. Directly into the personal space of RK, who did not budge even as Gavin knocked his shoulder clumsily into his mid arm. And Christ on a fucking cracker, Gavin’s head barely measured to his shoulder. He swallowed hard.

“Reed, you meet RK yet?” Fowler asked, shifting in his seat just slightly to face him.

“Uh, sort of.” He took a long step back, hands curling to fists in his jacket pocket.

“Well, better get the introductions out now. He’s your new partner.” He paused, eyes squinting up at Gavin, waiting for the explosion.

RK looked down, extended his hand which was going to swallow Gavin’s in it. Even his hands were built big. Vaguely, Gavin wondered how they would feel-

“It’s nice to formally meet you. I’m RK.”

Gavin had been right before. This was going to be a big fucking problem.

[parfumgirlgirl3]

hi guys long time no see but i’m here today to say i think i have a crush on my coworker and on sunday when we work together i’m gonna try to give him my number so wish me luck eek

[writing-the-end]

WS Chapter 40: A Home in Hell

Previous Chapter

Masterpost

A lotta lore coming your way! Thank you X for being the only one with a braincell in this group to explain world mechanics in a way that even I- the author- hardly understands. 

And sorry for yet another cliffhanger! I just love them too much! (wonder how many people caught the foreshadowing a few chapters back)

Ecto belongs to @cooler-cactus-block 

Red belongs to @theguardiansofredland​

Red picks up his head as he hears the sound of fireworks. The late afternoon sun blocks Red’s vision, whiting out the sky and making it impossible to see who is flying by. He feels like a castaway, trapped on this mound of sand with only an ominous nether portal and an unlit campfire. He doesn’t even have the ability to start a fire. 

Glimmers of white rain from the sky, forms slowly descending from the heavens. Well, most of them are. One dives straight for Red, wings tucked in like an arrow shot from a bow. The grey elytran wings only open at the last second, just enough to slow the descent and save the flyer from experiencing kinetic energy. Not enough to keep Ecto from barreling into Red, sending them both skidding across the sand. 

Red squeaks, gasping for air as Ecto hugs the breath out of her. Red feels something wet on his shoulder, and realizes that Ecto’s crying. She isn’t sure she’s ever seen Ecto cry, even when she was iced out of her own home. “We thought you were gone.” 

Red’s lips thin out. She should be gone. Out of everyone’s way. But even death didn’t want something as useless as her. Avon’s wings eclipse the sun a moment later, oscillating to lower her to the sand. She crosses the sandy island in a few strides, lifting off the ground to reach Red as fast as possible. Avon wraps her arms and wings tight around the other two wanderers, cocooning all three in the embrace. A weak chuckle escapes Avon’s lips.“We have got to stop losing each other in this world.” 

They only break up when Red has to push them apart. She needs to breathe, and Ecto’s vice grip is definitely not letting her do that. The hermits take slow circles to lower in altitude before landing on the short spit of land. Grian does the best landing, sliding across the sand and using the grains to skid to a stop. Stress’s landing is more of a stumble, coming in too hot for her liking. 

Ecto lets go, but stays close to Red. “I...I can’t believe you’re alive. How...how does…” 

“Our world has a few different rules than yours appears to have. Differences in the laws of nature, and all that.” Xisuma states, sitting down next to the wanderers. The other hermits crowd close. Even Mumbo, despite nearly being killed by sixty six percent of the trio. “Most deaths here aren’t permanent. You die, but you can come back.” 

“Is that what world magic can do?” Red questions. “How does that even work?” 

Iskall pulls out a pair of flint and steel, striking it to start the campfire. Keralis and Stress pull up logs for them all to sit on. And Grian reveals pockets full of food. He can’t help but notice Avon’s gaze never faltering from the potatoes in his hand. He starts cooking while Xisuma fills them in. “I don’t know how all it works, but I know my spells work and it eases the tension on all of us.” 

“You don’t want to know how many times I’ve died. I’ve kinda gotten used to the tingly feeling of reviving.” Scar chuckles, leaning back and watching as the sun sets on the world. That reminds Scar of something. He picks up a bag from behind the log, tossing it across the fire to Red. “Here you go, little fish. Keep that little guy close in your world, you hear?” 

Red looks down, seeing the gilded statue glinting in the sunset colors and fire flames. He notices that it has little wings on it’s back, like an angel with wings outspread. Cute little wings, smaller than his wide nose. He can’t tell if the nose was a mistake or intentional. It’s endearing, but Red isn’t sure why Fred is so important for Scar. Did he make it? 

As the cooked meals are being passed around, Avon looks across the fire to Tango. He reminds her so much of Blu, especially the way that the flames frame his face, his blonde hair and eyes the color of heated netherrack. Xisuma said something about Tango spending lots of time in the nether. She bites into her baked potato, swallowing it before she speaks. “You worked in the nether?” 

Tango perks up, noticing the quietest camper suddenly speak. He takes a bite of his steak, and leans back. “Yeah, a few worlds back I made this massive nether style base and humongous big farm-ificators in the dimension.” 

“Were there other people in the nether? What was it like working there so long?” Red adds, scooting closer to Tango. 

“I mean, it was a pretty long time ago. My mind starts to wander and mix things all up into a bunch of gobblty goop. It was really hot, for one. And yeah, there were other people. They didn’t really talk to me much, but they liked to watch my work. They were pretty chill people, the ones I met. Gave me lots of books and told me all sorts of things, like how they would just- pop!- appear in hell. Called themselves hellspawns because of that.” 

Xisuma hums, looking at the wanderers and Tango. “I think there’s a reason why hellspawns exist. Every world is a bit different. Different rules of nature, and different ways of keeping those rules. But as every world mage knows, each universe needs to keep its balance. I may have a theory as to why the person who attacked you may exist.” 

“Ohhh, if it’s an Xisuma idea it’s got to be all sorts of cool wizardy spells and potion things.” Tango is on the edge of his seat. He doesn’t exactly know why these people appeared and lived in the nether, but his time spent with them made him want to make the best of his own life. Live on his own terms. And he feels he has, here among the hermits. 

“There’s three dimensions. All in balance with one another. Too much of one thing can be bad, and too much of another isn’t good either. The nether and the Overworld are equals and opposites. Mirrors, counterweights. Keeping the universe in balance.” Xisuma picks up a handful of sand, watching the grains fall through his fingertips and return to the millions of others among the beach.

“But what about the End? Where is it in all this?” Avon questions, leaning against a propped up knee.

“If the overworld and the nether are the weights, then the End is the scale. Measuring, taking, adding. The liminal space between both, but just as integral as either side.” Xisuma looks around. Most of the people listening seem to be lost, but still listening

“So hellspawns….” Tango whispers.

“Probably appear to give the world balance. To be the counter to the universe. A hellspawn can’t exist without it’s overworld counter being born. And the overworld needs the nether to ease the weight of creation. Both are needed to keep balance.” 

“Why would Blu attack us then?” Ecto seems to understand the gist, tossing out all the weird theoretical stuff. “If both need to be balanced, why attack us? Why kill the ender dragon and freeze an entire desert?” 

“That...I can’t understand.” Xisuma shrugs, pulling off his helmet to finally dig into the mushroom stew he’s been preparing. Long, fluffy brown hair falls from his helmet, curling around his face. 

The wanderers look to Tango, but he shakes his head. “I don’t think any of my books or conversations can help, friends. It’s been ages since my nether base and those massive farms, leaving to join the other hermits in the new world. I really wish I could help more, but this is way out of my league man.” 

The wanderers look at each other, before looking back at the fire. It’s not the answer they were looking for, but it’s information they needed. Now they know, hellspawns are from the nether. Some way of their world balancing itself. Stress changes the subject to something lighter, and Scar adds on his own quirky stories until the air is filled with laughter. Calm respite after so long the wanderers struggled. Retreating into the hermit world, wounded and defeated. Quickly becoming lost in the jungle, only to find new friends willing to help them. In more ways than just getting back on course. And now, they can return to their world. Healed and with a new understanding of what they’re facing. 

With the dawn light, Scar guides the wanderers back to Larry. The giant snail still eeks over the infinity portal, guarding it with a fierce, lopsided gaze. Scar presses a crystal into each of the wanderer’s hands. “ The heart of the warrior for Avon, Luck for Ecto, and water breathing for Red.” 

Red looks at his crystal, then up to Scar. He doesn’t have the heart to tell him that he can already breathe underwater. He just clutches the crystal close, nodding as the rift warps and shifts between them. As much as Red loves being with the hermits, he’s ready to go home. Ready to face whatever is waiting for him. 

The wanderers step back through the portal, falling between worlds and back to their own. It’s dazing, and they can’t help but stumble back into their world. The portal disappears, leaving them in the forest. Ecto winces, rubbing her head after nearly cracking it against a tree. “Ugh, what’s that awful scent? It smells like dead fish.” 

Red looks around, breath catching in his throat. He recognizes where he is. He remembers the river, flowing through the forest towards the sea. The giant boulders tossed aside and trees growing from the fractures within them. And he smells the horrible scent, making him gag, his nose burning and eyes watering. The tide is turning.

Red scrabbles to his feet, leaving Ecto and Avon behind. Stumbling through the sand of the beach, only to collapse at the interface of the water. The water swirls with a rusted red color, waves brushing dead fish and seaweed against the pristine beaches. It’s already too late. 

Red was too late. The tide has turned.

[holylulusworld]

Golden Boy meets grey girl

Summary: Dating Captain America was a dream until it wasn’t…

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader, Tony Stark, Natasha Romanoff, Sam Wilson, James Bucky Barnes, Wanda Maximoff

Warnings: angst, a hint of fluff, breakup, heartbreak, pregnant reader

 You are dating Steve Rogers, Captain America, the golden boy, so nothing can go wrong…right? False...everything can go wrong, and this is where our story ends…or rather begins?

 “How can you be pregnant?” Steve asks raising his voice.

“Seriously? Well, when a boy and a girl Steve; aren’t you too old to ask me this kind of question?” You retort.

“I mean you are on the pill.”

“Yes, and I told you my doctor gave me the advice to not do it with you without condoms as your freaking genetic…whatever could trick the pill and obviously it did exactly what I said. You fucked me bare after the party Rogers! Don’t blame me…I thought you would be happy…”

“Happy? We are working for the Avengers. Risking our life and you want to have a baby?”

“What? Since when am I an Avenger? I’m always in my office, Steve. I’m not in danger and you are almost indestructible. So, what’s the real problem? Months ago, you told me you want to have a family. You looked after every child and now I’m pregnant you want what – an abortion?” You sniff.

“I never said this.”

“But you thought about it. I can see it all over your face. I wish I never listened to Tony or Nat…I knew…Forget it!” Running out of your shared room you want nothing more than have a break.

How could your surprise end like this? Hours ago, you were so happy and now he doesn’t want the baby.

----

“You can stay as long as you want to,” Wanda says but you shake your head.

“Wand, I can’t stay any longer. I have to talk to Steve about…”

“The baby?” She asks.

“You know?”

“I can sense a new life inside of you.”

“I see. Can you keep it to yourself for a while, till Steve and I talked things out? And please tell no one we had a fight.”

“I swear.”

----

“I’m sorry, Y/N. Please let me tell you how sorry.” Steve says and you sit down onto the bed.

“I didn’t want to yell either. I was just so disappointed. I thought you would be happy, obviously, I was wrong. You don’t want this, me…our baby.”

“I want you, okay. Just let me get used to the thought I’m going to be a father. In a few days, I’ll tell everyone about the baby.” Steve says and you want to believe his words.

----

Three months later…

“Y/N, can we talk?” Tony asks standing in front of your and Steve’s room.

“Sure. Is it because I was sick the last week? I already made progress in catching up with my paperwork.

“Honestly, you don’t have to worry about this any longer. You see we do not need your help anymore.” Tony says and you feel like someone slapped your face.

“Wait, what? You mean I’m fired? Why…? Does Steve know?”

“Look...god that’s hard to tell you…it was his idea. You should move into an apartment or house too. The Avengers Tower is kinda not a safe place for a civilian like you.”

“You never said this before. None of you ever called me like that! I saved all of your asses more than once with my knowledge now you are telling me you not just fired me you want me to leave my home and the man I love too?”

“Sorry. It’s for the best…”

“Is it because of the baby? Is Steve afraid something could happen to our child?” You ask and Tony’s eyes widen.

“Baby? You are pregnant?”

“OH…he didn’t tell anyone…right?”

“Shit, I’m so sorry. He said you two want to part ways and that you need a new job…house. I already prepared everything. I didn’t know a thing about a baby, Y/N.”

“Part ways…I see. He wasn’t even man enough to break up with me on his own. Captain America sends his Daddy to kick me out. Tell me is she prettier than me?”

“Prettier?”

“Don’t act like he doesn’t find someone better. I knew it was a mistake listening to you and Nat. Go out with Steve he’s so into you. He only talks about you. Steve is a gentleman…Gentleman my ass! He fucked me like an animal that night and knocked me up, now he’s getting me fired and kicks me out of my home. Gentleman, huh? I got no money, no home and on top of all, I’m pregnant by Captain America. Means every evil creep will try to go after me but moving out of the save Avengers headquarter will keep me safe for sure, Tony.” You spat.

“Y/N, I really didn’t know you’re pregnant. Don’t worry about money or a safe home. I’ll arrange everything for you, and I’ll have a serious conversation with Captain Asshole for sure!”

“Don’t waste your time, Tony. I believe you, okay. I was never good enough, I guess. He was my first everything you know…I thought he appreciated that I was only his…I was wrong. I’m going to pack my things right now. Can someone help me and order a cab? I got no car, so I need to get my stuff to my aunt this way.”

“I’ll drive you. Bucky and Sam can help you with your things. I’ll ask Wanda and Nat to help you with packing. I’m truly sorry, of course, you will keep your job.”

“No. Thanks…I don’t want it anymore. I’ll just go back to my old job at the FBI headquarter. They are calling me for months by now. My old boss will be happy to have me back.”

“Steve got no clue what he lost today…” Tony curses.

“He knows and he doesn’t care, obviously I’m not even worth it to break up with me personally.”

----

“Steve didn’t say a word?” Nat asks.

“Not a single word. I know he wasn’t too happy about my pregnancy, but this is cruel.”

“I should smash him into a wall and break all his bones.” Wanda curses. “I’m losing my best friend!”

“Don’t do that…you are a team…the Avengers…I’m no one to none of you. Just a grey office mouse running around with papers…”

“Papers which saved our asses more than once!” Bucky mutters.

“You will find someone for my job soon. I’m replaceable James.”

“James? Not Bucky?” He asks.

“Bucky is for friends…I’m just…I was just Steve’s girl.”

“Don’t be silly. You are a friend.” Sam says and you shrug.

“Thanks for the try, boys. I appreciate your effort but just drop the act. When I’m out of this door I’m long forgotten.” You say taking your purse and jacket to leave the tower.

----

Around three months later…

“He never called or came around?” Wanda asks.

Shaking your head, you place one hand onto your swollen belly. “I’m no one…told you all so.”

“But we all come around and he’s not able to visit his pregnant girl? That’s low, man. Fuck that’s more than low…this is bullshit!” Sam curses and you chuckle.

“Don’t worry…I’ll live. Made it three months without him. Will make it eighteen years to raise my kids.”

“Kids? Wait…more than one?” Bucky asks.

“Twins. Didn’t Wanda tell you so?”

“You said I shall not tell anyone!”

“Right…I forgot about it. Yeah, Bucky I’m having twins. A Boy and a girl.”

“Doubled the luck! But also doubled diapers to get changed.” Nat chuckles.

“Hmm…My aunt will help me. She had five kids so she’s good in stuff like this…”

“We can help too…not with the diapers…eek…but babysitting and stuff.”

“That’s nice, Nat. Thanks but I do not need a babysitter. I’m working from home and all my friends are here right now…”

“What about dating?” Sam asks.

“You think anyone wants the ex of Captain America? Every guy will ask why I was not good enough for the golden boy.”

“Nonsense!” Bucky says.

“It’s true…two weeks ago a guy flirted with me even seeing I’m pregnant. We talked for a while. He was nice, I was not really interested but talking to him didn’t hurt anyone. After some time, he started staring at me and then his eyes widen.”

“He acknowledged you as Cap’s ex?” Nat asks.

“Yep. The next question was why Steve broke up with me. As I couldn’t answer his question, because I got no clue he excused himself to the restrooms and never came back.”

“So, Cap plays cock-block even after breaking up with you?” Sam mutters.

“I didn’t intend on having sex with that guy, Sam.”

“Still this is shit…and unfair! You didn’t do anything wrong. We heard you telling him to use a condom.” Nat blurs out and your eyes widen.

“You heard?” You gasp turning crimson.

“Babe, the whole tower heard you two going at it…” Nat chuckles and you hide your face in your hands.

“Nothing to be ashamed of, doll. What about coming to Tony’s party next weekend?” Bucky suggests.

“I don’t want to see him.”

“Tony?” Sam asks.

“She means Steve, you idiot!” Nat snarls.

“I know that just tried to lighten the mood with some Stark hate…”

“That’s not Tony’s fault…you all know that. He didn’t know about the baby. Tony offered me a room and to keep my job, but I just had to leave.”

“He didn’t tell us so.”

“Sam, he is not the enemy…culprit…whatever. Tony is a good man, a playboy, and a perv sometimes but deep down inside a good guy, with a good heart. He installed Jarvis in my aunt’s house and helped us renovate it…well he sent someone to do it. The house is saver than a fortress thanks to Tony.

----

Watching you and his friends from afar Steve’s heart aches. He wishes he could just run to you and hold you in his arms but right now it would mean death to you…

----

“You sure it’s safe now?” Steve asks.

“Rogers, I told you we found everyone thanks to your great undercover work but at what cost.” Tony sighs.

“I had no other choice. They threatened her. I had to stop them to protect my child and the woman I love.”

“The woman you love suffers for three months thanks to your lies! You should’ve told us about the Hydra cell within the FBI! Hell, she wanted to start working for them again. You would’ve pushed her right into their arms!”

“Do you think I don’t know that Tony! My heart missed a beat after you told me so! I took down her former boss to make sure she can’t seduce Y/N to come back. If you excuse me now I’m going to go to my girl and beg for forgiveness…”

“Go down on your knees. Don’t forget flowers…but no cactus! If she throws it at you roses or tulips won’t hurt.” Tony chuckles shaking his head. ”How about chocolate or a good fuck?”

“No, swear words, Tony,” Steve warns and Tony starts cackling.

“Seriously? This concerns you the most. Get the girl or I’ll get her. She’s one hell of a woman!”

“I know…and she’s mine…”

----

Sitting on your front porch you close your eyes to enjoy the warm sun on your face. When someone steals your sun by towering over you your eyes snap open.

“What do you want?” You snap.

“Let me explain…you see…I love you.” Steve stammers.

“Sure, that’s the reason you kicked me out of our home and your life. You were not man enough to tell me I’m not good enough for you or that you don’t want my babies. I’m just the grey girl no one wants. Why should the golden boy want me?”

“Baby?”

“Go and leave me alone. Do whatever you did for the last three months, with whomever you did it…” You sob.

“I was on a mission…alone. I took down a Hydra cell within the FBI. They threatened you and my baby. They had some spies within the tower too. I had to take them down, but those monsters had to believe I broke up with you, that you mean nothing to me. The guy in the café was one of them. When you started to cry he knew it was true.”

“He was one of them…he was so close…he had his hand on my bump…” You sob.

“You’re safe now. I took them down with Buck and Vision.”

“Did Bucky know?”

“He was the only one. I told Tony last week. I swear the others had no clue. Bucky visited you all the time to make sure you are save and to report to me on the babies.”

“Your hair is longer…” You say.

“Had to look a bit more…dangerous.” Steve chuckles.

“I like the beard too…”

“I’m so sorry for not telling you but I tried to protect you. I was always close by, just like Buck. Can I touch the bump?”

Sniffing you lift your shirt so Steve can gently place one hand onto your belly. A tear slips down his cheek when one of the babies kicks him.

“Strong little guy.”

“Both are more than strong…I guess their daddy gave them some special gene’s.”

“Will you come home with me?”

“First you need to survive my aunt, she’s a human lie detector. Also, you have to explain why you weren’t happy after I told you I’m pregnant.”

“I was happy, beyond happy but I already started my mission and I knew they would go after you even more. I tried to fake a breakup, but they saw us together, so I had to make it looks real…I’m sorry…Look I have flowers.”

Looking at the dead flowers in his hands you start laughing. “Did you strangle the poor tulips?”

“I guess my grip was too tight…I should’ve bought the cactus.”

“Nah…it’s fine…god…I haven’t laughed like that for a while.”

Helping you get up Steve looks down at you. Blue eyes focused on your lips he tilts his head. Taking too long for your taste you stand on tiptoes to press your lips to his. Giggling you feel his beard scratching your skin while you move fingers through his long hair.

“Am I forgiven?”

“No…but I think we make progress. You will have to make up a lot to me, Rogers.”

“I’ll do anything. I have chocolate too and Tony suggested something else…”

“Tony did? What could…oh…that pervert!” You mutter but Steve's eyes darken, and you feel your heart beating faster.

“My aunt ain’t home for at least two more hours…”

“Then let your golden boy make it up to you…Do you want me to shave the bear first?”

“No way! You will keep it just like the hair!” You mutter dragging him into your house.

“I guess this means you like my new style…”

Pressing your lips to his answers Steve’s question. His arms move around you to hold you tight as he wanted for the last three months.

He finally has his grey girl back…

[omnivorousshipper]

It’s Friday already? Wow. Athlete Au + Mutual Pining(I say athlete au but what I really mean is...I secretly want to see the dynamics between gymnast Deck and Luke)

Oh gosh! Now that is exciting! But I have to admit, I don’t know all that much about gymnasts, so bear with me

Deckard Shaw has just been accepted in the team for Britain’s Olympic gymnasts. He’s over the moon and excited that all of his hard work has finally paid off. He’s going to be going to the Olympics

When the event arrives and Deckard is warming up, waiting for the competition to start, he sees other men from around the world also warming up. They all look like they’re ready, even if a little nervous, and that’s when Deckard spots Luke Hobbs.

This might be Deckard’s first Olympics, but he’s been following the event since he was a kid. He knows Luke won silver in gymnastics four years ago. The man had been spectacular and had just lost gold by a few points

Deckard didn’t doubt Luke would be trying to get that gold this year. He was tempted to go and wish the guy luck, but decided against it, not wanting to interfere in Luke’s warm ups

Instead, after Deckard’s performance and near perfect score, he watches in awe as Luke matches his score exactly

Once the event is over and he’s been told to meet later to discuss advancing to the next round tomorrow, Deckard’s about to go back to his hotel room, but he’s stopped when someone calls out his name

“Shaw!”

Turning around, Deckard’s surprised to see Luke Hobbs running up to him

“Hey. Just wanted to introduce myself.” Luke smiles at him, holding a hand out. “Just wanted to congratulate you on getting such and amazing score earlier. New comers don’t always do as well as you did”

“Thanks.” Deckard responds and shakes Luke’s hand, admiring his firm hold

“I wanted to wish you luck tomorrow. The competition just gets worse from here.”

And Deckard’s touched that someone who’s supposed to be his rival is encouraging him.

“Same to you, mate.”

They part on good terms, and Deckard feels even better about tomorrow’s round.

The next day, Luke comes up to him again, right before the event. They talk while they wait their turns, and Deckard can’t help but lean into Luke’s hand when the bigger man pats him on shoulder right before Deckard walks out when it’s his turn

Again, he and Luke score the same and advance, going to the final round

This time though, Luke invites Deckard back to his room after the event. And he says yes

And even though Deckard’s far away from home and his family, he doesn’t feel lonely when he’s with Luke, listening to Luke talk about his daughter, his friends who always get into trouble. And in turn, Deckard talks about his siblings and how he fixes cars up in his spare time

Deckard secretly hopes Luke will kiss him when he leaves that night, but instead, Luke shuffles his feet and awkwardly tells Deckard good luck for tomorrow’s event

The last day, Deckard can feel his nerves fraying as he gets ready. It’s time to go big or go home. He can feel his foot tapping constantly with all of his pent up nervous energy

But he calms immediately when he hears Luke’s voice

“Good luck out there, Deck. Hopefully we can both bring some metals home today.”

And that they do. Deckard finally eeks out in front of Luke and is able to get gold during his very first Olympics. Luke looks pretty happy with his silver as he looks up at Deckard, smiling like crazy

When they’re off the field and out of view of cameras, Deckard can’t help but smile at Luke, happiness coursing through him

“I knew you could do it, Deck.” Luke congratulates him. And without thinking, Deckard wraps his arms around Luke’s neck and pulls him into a kiss.

He feels Luke’s arms wrap around his waist as he kisses back just as eagerly

Thanks friend! I hope you like this! Sorry if I didn’t seem to get the gymnast part down completely!

[reylo-trash-4ever]

HELLO REYLO FAM!!!

Wow... I am incredibly nervous about posting this because I haven’t shared my writing in years, but the incredible @lana-n95 gave me the idea when I made my prompts post, and I just rolled with it and made it an entire fic. SO HERE YA GO! 

Shout out to @scav-eng-er for being my Reylo Soul Mate and literally giving me the courage to do this!! I couldn’t ask for a better support group in @mojona1999 and @firethebluesky as well! You lovely people are who keep me going and I promise I’m working on getting us all a group chat so we can be friends for life.

This will be updated fairly regularly, but please do not expect a lot yet. I’m working towards bi-weekly, but for right now, this is all I have. I hope you enjoy! EEK!!

“The Game” - a Reylo AU

Universe: AU/Modern day New York

Rating: M (this chapter only has some mild language and sexual themes)

Word Count: 3629

Pairing: Rey and Ben Solo

PART ONE:

The New York winds were especially biting that December morning as Rey made her way through the bustling streets of the city. She wove in and out of passersby as everyone went about their day, each individual having separate lives, separate troubles, and separate dreams.

Rey had quite a few dreams of her own, but they were sometimes hard to make into reality. She had worked her ass off to get to where she was today, though. It was a great and classic story; a ‘nobody’ girl who came from the rural countryside making it big in the city. She’d always been passionate about helping people and doing what she could for the underdog, probably because she had felt like one all her life. Nobody thought she could do it, but she graduated at the top of her class in almost every subject, excelled in sports, and even dabbled in the theatrical arts when she had time. Her determination and hard work didn’t leave room for many friendships, but she didn’t mind putting all of that behind her when she moved to the city to study law.

College was good to her. She finally met some people she would call lifelong friends. She studied hard, and she learned harder. She was still kind of a ‘loner’ at heart, never really being the person to be seen out at parties, bars, or clubs. Every once in awhile she let herself go crazy, but it was rare. So much so that her friends started calling her “The Black Cat” because it was such a shock, and slightly unnerving, whenever she actually showed up to events. She knew the superstitions and implications surrounding a black cat, and she easily could have taken offense at the nickname, but Rey secretly liked it. Let her be known for her sly, hard work and mystery, not how well liked and popular she was or wasn’t.

It was this mentality that ultimately landed her a job as an intern at Skywalker and Associates straight out of college. It was a miracle from the stars that she got accepted into one of the top law firms in the state so soon after graduating. She didn’t really believe in a “higher power”, but something up there in the infinite galaxies must have been on her side. She knew she was good, and had the potential to be the best, but she had never before had the resources due to her upbringing. The opportunity was something she would never be ungrateful for.

It had been almost eight months since she started interning, and already she was making her way up in the company. Her dedication to cases and her keen eye for detail had gained her the attention of some of the more prominent names in the office and she hoped it was enough to be the next Jr. Partner.

Rey pulled off the street to step into a small coffee shop. A little bell chimed as she pushed open the door and the wondrous smells filled her nose as she took a deep breath in. The warmth filled her body and was almost a shock coming from such a drastic difference only seconds before, but she welcomed the comfort.

She stepped in line and perused the menu, even though she already knew what she wanted. It was the same thing she always got - a french press, dark roast with just a little bit of half and half - as she was a woman of pattern and repetition. Getting the same thing day in and day out had never bothered her. It was safe, it was what she knew. Why risk something that would rock the boat? Even though she didn’t normally believe in “luck”, she didn’t want to risk it today. This was her chance to finally start doing real cases and to work on projects that would make a difference.

“Would you like to round up your order and donate to the Children’s Hospital for the holidays?”

The barista’s voice took her out of her own head after she had apparently told them her order without thinking. Rey smiled and nodded her head quickly in response. She felt in a ‘giving mood’ that morning. Send as much “good karma” out into the universe as she could.

“Thank you so much, and have a nice day!”

The words faded into the hustle and bustle of the crowd as Rey stepped away and waited for her drink. She dug her phone out of her pocket and soon got lost in social media, scrolling mindlessly. Friends and distant family passed her screen, seeming to all be living happy and comfortable lives with their loved ones.

Rey had always wished for that kind of security and ‘home’. It was one of the reasons she worked as hard as she did, so she could hopefully someday give that life to herself. The one she never had, but always wanted. Her mother passed away when she was in grade school and her father left before she was even born. Being an only child, her uncle had offered to take her in, but he was a bachelor with a demanding job and very little time for another human being besides himself. He wasn’t the worst person in the world and they got along well enough, he was just never really much of a ‘parental figure’. She learned early on that she would have to find her own place in the world, and her fierce determination was set from that moment on.

She didn’t know why this was the morning of reminiscing, but something about the possibility of change must have had her brain in that mode. Rey brushed off the weirdness as she got up out of her seat after hearing her name being called. She made her way through the crowded cafe and grabbed her coffee.

She turned to leave, thanking the employee behind the counter again over her shoulder, when suddenly, she was almost knocked off her feet by an incoming stranger. She caught herself and her coffee, thankful for the lid stuck solidly to the cup, and turned around with a glare.

A tall man with broad shoulders and dark, shoulder length hair had been the culprit. His tall frame towered over her, but he seemed intent on barely even acknowledging her in his attempt to rush past. She caught his attention though, and he turned to look back at her over his shoulder. Rey, astounded by the audacity of the stranger, continued to glare and silently dared him to apologize for the discrepancy.

The man simply blinked at her for the briefest of moments, a glint in his dark eyes as they gazed back at her with an air of pride and so little remorse that it sent a shiver down her spine. Then, without a word, he continued on his way as if he had never hit her at all.

Rey scoffed angrily and whipped around on her heels as quickly as she could to get out of the coffee shop, now with a sour taste in her mouth. Some people are just assholes, she concluded as she once again walked out the door. A gust of blistering cold air hit her face and she closed her eyes. She tightened her scarf around her neck and pulled it up so that it was covering her nose, trying to shelter as much of her face as she could. God, she hated the cold...

***

It was as busy as always at the office. Rey quickly got lost in her work, and she didn’t realize how much time had passed before she heard her co-worker, Rose, calling her name.

“Do you ever take a break?”

The short cropped, black haired girl crossed her arms over the top of Rey’s desktop computer, forcing her to break from her work. She couldn’t help but smile when looking up into her ever cheerful, grinning face.

“I don’t have time for a break,” Rey said, trying to see past the distraction.

“I admire your dedication,” Rose stood on her tiptoes to lean over and look at Rey’s computer upside down. She was one of Rey’s favorite coworkers. Unlike the other women, she didn’t sit around the office and gossip all day, but had just about as much dedication to her job as Rey did. Well, almost as much.

“Did you hear about Rex and Ava?”

“Oh my God, no! Did they hook up?”

The chatter of the women standing behind them was too much for Rey. The office was notorious for rumors, especially of the romantic kind. Apparently, the people who worked there were infatuated with who was dating who, who had an affair with who, and who slept with who. Personally, Rey wanted nothing to do with it and couldn’t care less about the love lives of her coworkers. Unless it was Rose, but one of the things Rey liked about her was that she was pretty private and kept her personal life separate from her work life.

“I heard they got lunch yesterday and-”

“That’s crazy! I thought she was seeing that Lando guy from Brooklyn-”

“Look,” Rose said, “you eventually have to take a break. You know that, right? It’s bad for your mental health to be so busy all the time. And it’s kind of required by law.”

Rey smiled at her friend. “I know,” she said, placing her palm on Rose’s head and softly pushed it back so that she had to move off of her computer, “and thank you for caring, but I’m alright.”

“You would let me know if you weren’t, right?”

“I heard that the CEO’s son was going to start here in the new year.”

“No way! That arrogant jerk wants nothing to do with his father’s company. And he’s supposedly a real ‘ladies man’.”

“But I heard he’s super attractive and has that ‘rich bad boy’ vibe. Wouldn’t that be so hot?”

“Well, I have to admit, that would be a welcome change around here.”

Rey tried to drown out the distractions of the noises and she managed to plaster another reassuring smile on her face. “Of course I would.”

“It’s a long shot, but we’re all getting drinks at Naboo’s, that new cocktail bar down the street, if you’d like to join us?” Rose asked, motioning to a few of the other women who were all filing behind her and collecting their coats and respective purses. Her dark eyes begged Rey to come along, and she hated to disappoint, but she knew she didn’t want to go.

“I wish I could,” Rey said with a hint of genuine sadness in her voice, “but I just have so much work to do. I was planning on staying a little late tonight anyway.”

“Well, you can’t blame me for trying,” Rose chuckled with a shrug. She turned to leave and gave Rey a little wave over her shoulder.

“Have fun without me,” Rey called after her as she walked away, grabbing her own coat as she passed by the coat rack.

“Would be more fun with you,” Rose teased. There was a small ding and the now collective group of men and women who were leaving for the day clamored into the elevator.

Rey watched as the doors slid shut and just like that, it was silent in the office. She let out a breath she didn’t know she had been holding and sighed with relief. It was always nice when she could be here by herself. She found that she got more work done with less distractions. She wouldn’t be there that late anyway and her bosses didn’t mind as long as it helped further the business. Some of them were still working in their own offices, so she wasn’t completely alone.

She grabbed her laptop to take to the conference room and finish some paperwork on a particularly difficult case. Although, she quickly discovered that maybe not taking a single break that day, even to eat, was probably an issue. Her stomach growled and at first she tried to ignore it, but when her hunger headache began, she knew she wouldn’t be able to keep it up for too much longer.

With a long sigh, Rey stood and made her way to the break room. Taking a peek through the floor to ceiling windows, she could see the city all lit up for the evening. There was something special about New York at night, but especially around the holidays. People had candles in their windows and hung colorful lights on balconies and railings and really wherever they could find space. She loved upstate, and not just because of the expensive look of her surroundings and the other rich things it had to offer, but because the city really did look stunning at night. Like a million, twinkling stars, but unlike the unreachable night sky above, if you reached out to touch them, they were almost in your grasp.

***

After making a quick protein filled smoothie, Rey went back to the empty room to finish her work. Only, when she got there, she discovered that she was not alone.

A man lounged in her chair, his back towards her. Without even seeing him standing, she could tell how tall he was just by how far his legs extended out from under him. He was sitting with his feet propped up on another chair close to him, one leg crossed over the other, and he was staring at her open laptop. The light from the screen illuminated his frame and she couldn’t see past his thick shoulders and broad upper torso. Something about him was so familiar to her, but she didn’t care enough to think too deeply on it as her focus was more caught on how he was snooping in on her personal case.

“Excuse me, what the hell do you think you’re doing?” She said sharply, expecting to see him jump in surprise at being caught, but he didn’t move a muscle. Instead, she heard a calm, deep voice come from the opposite side of his large body.

“I’m reading.”

The response was simple, but the tone of it made her feel like she was the stupid one for even having asked the question in the first place.

“That’s my laptop,” she said plainly, taken off guard and not knowing how else to react.

“Is it? That’s interesting,” the man sounded bored and Rey thought for a second that he didn’t even seem to be listening to her at all.

“I’m sorry, but can I have my seat back? I was working on an important case.” Rey took a few defiant steps closer, trying to be as brave as she could. Something about this man unnerved her and she was suddenly very aware that she was alone with a stranger in an almost completely empty and dark room.

“I can see that,” he said, reaching a hand up to his face and rubbing his chin, “you’ve missed something important in your report though.” He still didn’t turn to her, but his other hand appeared beside him and he wiggled two fingers, motioning for her to come over to him. Rey felt her face heat with anger and embarrassment. How dare this strange man try to correct her on her case. Who did he think he was, anyway?!

Against her better judgement, Rey couldn’t suppress her pride and she realized she had to know what he was talking about. She’d looked over this case for almost an entire week now, and she was sure there was no way she could have missed a thing. It was a pretty cut and dry case, anyway. A man cheated on his fiance and she was suing him, hoping to make him pay for all the money her and her family had already spent on the upcoming wedding.

“What are you talking about?” Rey asked bluntly as she stepped over to the man. She leaned over his shoulder and squinted her eyes in the laptop light, trying to find the discrepancy she was sure was nowhere to be found.

“Right here,” the man’s deep voice was directly in her ear and she could feel his hot breath on her neck, instantly sending shivers down her spine, “the report says that your client’s ex-fiance cheated on her with another woman. That’s a lie.”

“No it’s not, the evidence proved that he was seeing another woman while they were together, and one of the witnesses all but admitted to being his mistress. It’s a cut and dry case.”

“Except that he wasn’t seeing another woman. He was seeing three.”

“Excuse me?!” The accusation was so outrageous that Rey had to turn and give the man the most incredulous look, and when their eyes met, she suddenly remembered where she had seen him before. The scene from that morning in the coffee shop played in her mind like a rerun of a bad TV show. Her breath hitched in her throat as he stared back at her with a wry smile on his lips.

“The sample of hair they found on his suit coat the night of the supposed affair is blonde. The color of your witnesses hair is a muted brunette,” he began to explain his reasonings, never breaking eye contact with Rey while she stared dumbfoundedly back at him.

“That’s only two women. You said there were three.” She stood up straight and looked down on the dark haired man who leaned back further into his seat to keep her gaze. She knew her response was weak, suddenly doubting everything she thought she knew about this case and hating herself for missing something so obvious as that. But she was still determined not to let this stranger get the better of her.

The man’s smile faded and he moved from his seat, slowly getting up. It seemed to take him an impossibly long time to rise, but when he stretched to his full height, he towered at least a good foot above her. He looked down at her with little interest in his eyes, as if he had just gotten bored of their conversation and was bothered by her presence.

Suddenly, he was leaning in towards her and Rey’s hand instinctively grabbed the pepper spray she carried in her jacket, but the man reached past her and pulled over a plastic baggy full of evidence. Rey’s breathing was heavy with a mixture of fury and fear as he grabbed the bag and pulled it towards him.

“The perfume found in his car is an original vintage bottle of Versace made in 1983. There are only a few of these rare finds left and their price runs around one thousand dollars a pop. Judging from the size of the pocket books on both of the ladies he was seeing, neither of them could afford such a luxury. Which of course suggests that he had another, more prominent and wealthy woman on his hands.”

Rey swallowed hard and tried to keep her expression as blank as she could, but he was making too much and too little sense at the same time, and her head was spinning with confusion. Who did this arrogant bastard think he was to come in here and completely destroy her work like this?

“Not to mention, I happen to know the lovely lady who owns this particular bottle,” his fingers traced the side of the bag and he looked at it with such a perverse smile that it made Rey’s stomach turn, “She can be very… persuasive when she wants something. Her father, who owns a tenth of the real estate in upper Manhattan, will do everything he can to fight the scandal. Which means new, expensive lawyers on the defendants side and probably a lot of shaddy underground work to get him out scotch free. I have a feeling your client isn’t going to get the money, if anything, as easily as she thought.”

The silence that followed was excruciating. Rey was shocked by the revelation and the ridiculous outcome of this case she had been working her life away on. There was no way that they could have hidden this from her, was there? Her mind raced with all the possibilities that this could mean and she scrambled to find a way, any way, to turn this back in her client's favor. Could she beg for a settlement and at least get some money to the poor, mistreated woman? Or maybe she could convince the judge that this was a gross misuse of trust and blame emotional manipulation? There had to be something, anything...

“Or,” the low drawl of the man’s voice as he drew out the word snapped Rey out of her spiral. His black eyes glittered once again with something she couldn’t place and the corner of his mouth twitched up in a cocky smile as he wiggled the evidence in his hand, “this could just be a regular old department store perfume bottle and I was simply fucking with you.”

Another silence filled the room and Rey found she couldn’t breathe again. What… the… hell had he just said?

“I-I’m sorry, what?” She hissed her question and the smile on the man’s face grew wider.

“That was fun, sweetheart,” his condescending words made Rey’s blood boil, “let’s do this again sometime. When I need comic relief in this shithole of a job, I’ll look for you.” He stretched his arms behind his neck and sauntered around her, making his way out of the room. He stopped in the doorway and turned over his shoulder to give her a taunting wink.

“See you around.”

*to be continued*