#even in the end he trusted he had his reasons for doing what he did

[wcnderlnds]

opposites attract | choi su-bong (thanos)

・❥・ summary: he's chaotic and loud, you're shy and introverted but he can't help but be intrigued by you ・❥・word count: 1.3k ・❥・warnings: mentions of death bc squid game, nam-gyu is mean to reader (im sry), female reader. ・❥・ authors note: i love writing this chaotic man <3

Of course the second game just had to be one where you had to interact with people and find a team. Talking to people, approaching them – it was your worst nightmare. As you stood there in the sea of people all talking and teaming up, you timidly stayed in place, your hands pulled into the sleeves of your jacket giving yourself sweater paws. Since the first game, you had kept to yourself. You had even voted to leave. Why would anyone want to stay in a place like this where people were getting killed for losing children’s games? Unfortunately, the majority had decided to stay even after a heavily heated debate where player 456 had declared he’d been here before. While it was all kicking off, you had hid behind the crowd. Conflict was something you avoided. People were usually something you avoided but when a salesman came up to you with promises of money, how could you say no?

So, as you stood there, too shy to approach, you accepted the fact that you were probably going to die. There was no way you had enough courage in you to find a team. Even if you did, who was there to ask? The only person you might consider approachable was player 456 but he already had a team. There was no point going over there, asking and risking embarrassment as they turned you down. Aimlessly you wandered around the room, fingers toying with the ends of your sleeve – a nervous habit that you’d had since you were a child.

Guess you’d just have to accept your fate. You were either going to get killed because you couldn’t find a team or end up in a team who didn’t want you. Just as you were about to sit down and give up entirely, someone cleared their throat behind you. Spinning around, you came face to face with the infamous player 230. His purple hair was unmistakable, you’d seen him when he’d been fighting some other boy yesterday.

“Senorita, excuse me,” he said, his hands clenching his jacket to his chest. Your eyes landed on his multi-colored nails first before daring to glance up to look at him. Eyes met his dark ones for only a second before looking back down at the ground. He noticed instantly, tilting his head to the side as he looked at you. “Team with us.”

“R-really?” You dared to glance back up. He seemed serious but the look his friend was giving was anything but friendly. It looked like he’d rather team with anyone but you.

“Yeah, really? She’s kind of weird,” Nam-gyu looked you up and down, pulling a face then turning back to Thanos. “We can find someo-”

“Shutup,” he held his hand up in front of his friend’s face, his eyes solely focused on you. “Team with us. I’ll keep you safe.”

It wasn’t like you had any other options so you nodded. Thanos seemed thrilled, throwing his arm around your shoulders in a side hug. Your instinct was telling you not to trust him but at the same time there was something slightly comforting about him. After all, he had ignored his friend to solely talk to you. Why on Earth he was so adamant to have you on his team baffled you but it saved you from getting eliminated… if you made it through the game anyway. 

Turns out it was five mini games in one. As the rest of your team argued about who would do what, Thanos’ eyes were fixated on you who was looking at the ground. There was something about you that intrigued him. The difference in your personalities was more than noticeable. He was loud, crazy and obnoxious while you, on the other hand, seemed shy, insecure and quiet. Maybe it was true. Maybe opposites really did attract because for some reason, he wanted to get to know you more. He actually wanted to know you. That rarely happened with him. Usually he was the type of guy to get a crush, fuck and then move on to the next one. It was rare for ‘Mr One Night Stand’ to really want to get to know someone. To be honest, he wasn’t sure he liked the feeling. The pounding in his chest as he tried to examine you with his eyes. It was impossible to really get a good read on you.

“And, the loser over there can do Gonggi,” Nam-gyu’s voice echoed through your ears. Panic struck, you leaned forward, speaking before you even thought about it.

“I-I don’t know how to play Gonggi,” you mumbled.

“Better learn quickly then, huh?” Nam-gyu smiled fake-sweetly at you.

“Hey, stop it,” Thanos stopped his silent beat boxing to chime in, leaning forward to glare at his friend. “Leave her alone… What are you good at?”

“I can do spinning top. I played it a lot with my friends…” you tried to speak with a bit more confidence, a pink hue tinting your cheeks. Thanos noticed, grinning at you.

“Spinning top for you then. You’re cute, by the way,” he winked, causing your cheeks to only redden more.

Somehow, someway, the team had managed to survive. A lot of teams seemed to struggle with Spinning Top but you had got it the first try – Thanos almost blowing out your eardrums with the loud cheer of celebration when you did. Now, back in the main room, you were sat with the team. If it was up to you, you would have gone to sit by yourself but Thanos had insisted you sit with them. It seemed like he wanted to keep you around. It wouldn’t be too bad to have some friends, right? You sat beside Thanos, a space between you. While he was in a world of his own, DJing some invisible show in his head by the looks of his hand motions, the rest of the team were arguing. Your knees were pulled up to your chest, chin resting on them.

Watching everyone talk with each other so easily – even if it was arguing – made you feel slightly jealous that you couldn’t. It wasn’t that you didn’t want to because you did but the mere thought of striking up a conversation with anyone brought you too much anxiety. It was just better to keep to yourself. If you had to be the weird, quiet girl then so be it.

“They’re idiots,” the deep voice beside you said. Turning to look, you’d noticed Thanos had closed the distance between you both, his shoulder touching yours now. “You good?”

“Uh, yeah, thanks,” you smiled, tucking a stray piece of your hair behind your ear. “Thanks for letting me team with you.”

“No problem, Senorita. Told you I’d keep you safe, didn’t I?” His toothy grin made your heart skip a beat. Oh boy. That was the last thing you needed.

“Y-yeah,” you laughed, tearing your eyes away from him yet again.

This time, his finger gently reached out, tilting your chin to look at him. His eyes pierced yours, a look of intrigue on his face. “You have pretty eyes. It’s a shame you think the floor deserves to see them more than me.” He leaned in a little closer, his hot breath fanning against your face. Being close to someone wasn’t new for you. It was something that didn’t happen often but you’d had your fair share of encounters with people. “Meant it when I said you were cute, babygirl. Stick with me through these games and when we survive, let me take you out for a drink. Maybe I can get more than a few words at a time out of you.”

Once again, he winked at you, removing his finger from your chin and turning his attention to the argument going on in front of him. Meanwhile you were in a daze, your heart beating against your chest so much you were sure it was about to beat out of your ribcage. Yeah, this man was definitely going to be trouble.

taglist: @angelofbooksworld @ldydeath @taivantaylor @sherlocke3d @djarindroid @justsisse @sassyyoyo @lillyysgirlblog @mysatnin @basquiat-top @urmomsg1rlfreind

[unpopularly-opinionated]

So you believe that Boeing paid off the family juuuuuust enough to get them to say that he wasn't assassinated, but not enough to stop them from saying "Boeing is responsible for his death and should be held responsible for their grotesque conduct that drove him to suicide?"

I guess I should've been more clear when I said Boeing "paid off" the bereaved family, that's on me I guess, but I didn't mean they paid them off in the same sense that you'd pay off a cop. If it even transpired, it would more than likely go something like: "Hey, we feel really bad about the tragic loss of your son who definitely for sure killed himself, so uh, here's some money for your loss. See, we're the good guys in this! Please don't point fingers at us."

Or alternatively, they could've not been paid at all. Both are just as likely and explain why the family might still be pointing fingers. It wouldn't have been hush money, more like a gift meant to ingratiate them as an innocent party that obviously didn't work (again, assuming it even happened).

The evidence you have is an apparent belief that money has evil-gravitic properties, and anything bad that happens must have originated with the closest concentration of money.

Not anything, no, just the ones where Occam's razor applies. Again, which is more likely, a hundred billion dollar company who are active agents of shady, illegal business practices had both the cause and the means to have someone with information dangerous to their company killed and covered up... or that the guy who was about to testify with said-dangerous information just up and decided to end it all right before the finish line?

You seem to be under the impression that money holds little to no power which is as amusing to me as it is grossly naive.

By your standard, is there any evidence that is not hearsay? Because the evidence is "all of the evidence," and I appended the assessment of the family to pre-empt the accusation it was all made up evidence. What evidence does not count as hearsay?

To reiterate, I don't have any evidence that he was killed, nor did I ever claim to. But the evidence that he killed himself is the hole in his head and the "trust me bro" we get from the cops, which is the same exact kind of evidence that we got from Epstein's supposed suicide as well, just a man hanging in his cell and a "trust me bro" from the cops.

Now, is this me saying that we should question whether or not every suicide by gunshot/hanging is legit or just actually a covered up murder? No, obviously not. Again, I'm just applying Occam's razor here. Joe Blow who lived an average life before deciding to end it all probably wasn't secretly murdered. But the guy with information that could harm a lot of really powerful people, who is in active pursuit of revealing that information to the proper authorities, decides to end it all just before the finish line? You can't reasonably argue that it's not the least bit suspect.

The rest of us know Epstein didn't kill himself because we observe facts about reality and observe when they do and do not align with a conspiracy or cover-up.

You know, I don't mean to be rude, and what I said about you being naive about money was rude, so I apologize. But if not money, you seem to think that maybe only politicians or political figures have the modicum of power necessary to have someone killed and cover it up.

Like let's just examine your admission here: You've admitted that the circumstances surrounding Epstein's supposed suicide were suspect enough to justify questioning it's legitimacy. You admit to this despite the fact that he was in prison and under close watch by guards and cameras. Which, mind you, I agree with. But you're telling me that someone in those circumstances was somehow murdered, and said-murder was then covered up?

So then explain to me how exactly it's so unbelievable that a dude not in prison, not under watch by guards or cameras, was murdered in his car and then covered up as a suicide? How was one dude with dangerous information under total security and surveillance mysteriously killed and staged, but the other dude with dangerous information with no security or surveillance probably just killed himself?

This isn't the hill I'm prepared to die on, but sure, maybe he did kill himself. But then again, maybe Epstein actually just killed himself too.

Remember earlier this year when Boeing very clearly had a whistleblower executed? And law enforcement didn't even look for anyone or release any info about it or anything?

People keep comparing Luigi Mangione's case to the subway murderer who got off because of systemic eugenics, but I think there's something more apt about the fact that a CEO had someone executed in recent memory, with zero attempts to find a culprit, while they spared no expense at all to find (and probably frame, it's beginning to look like) someone who shot a CEO. It's always fine to slaughter if you're rich, but if you kill the rich, they will hunt you down.

[amberstruck]

First off, I love your Chocobo AU so much, especially Grian’s creechur form. Secondly, how did Scar know Grian’s name? Or was he the one who named Grian? If so what was Grian’s name before?

Another question-ish, I’m curious about the fight with that creature that led to Grian’s reveal. Like, what it was/how that fight went. And what their first conversation is like with Grian able to talk back.

…and this is getting longer then I intended but I’m also curious what things are like post reveal. How often is Grian in his human form vs his creechur form?

Thank you! I’m glad you’re enjoying it 🥹

(Just an fyi, some of these will also be featured in later parts of the AU/comic, but I’ll answer them now anyways because idk how long it’ll take to release those parts)

FIRST QUESTION! Did Scar name Grian?

Scar technically did name Grian, except it wasn’t just ‘oh look, you’re a bird, I’m gonna call you this’, Grian still had his own input and also partly chose it himself.

Scar talks to him like he’s a regular person even when he’s in bird form, despite the fact that he can’t talk back, so when he was naming him he basically just said ‘What do you want your name to be? How about Feathers?’ and Grian responded with an angry little chirp, so Scar was like ‘😒 Ok fine, what about Kwazii?’ and then another angry chirp, until eventually he asked whether he liked ‘Grian’ and finally Grian was like hmm yes (affirmative chirp). So it was a bit of a mutual agreement.

Second Question! What happened during/after the fight

The creature that injured Grian will be an important feature later in the AU so I’m not gonna spoil that yet, but he was injured because he’s used to communicating in an easy and friendly way with other magical creatures, and this creature was unusually sinister, in that it pretended to be friendly at first, then turned hostile (there is a reason for that), so he wasn’t expecting it and couldn’t defend himself.

Their first conversation will actually be the next part of the comic so I’m gonna leave that out as well (sorry!) just because it’ll be better when it has the visuals

Last Question! What is Grian like post-reveal?

Ok so after a lot of confusing conversations (and sexuality crises) with Grian when he’s an actual person, Scar convinces him that he’s safe enough with him to be in his true (human) form whenever he wants to.

So basically, Scar actually wants Grian to be a person all the time, but Grian is still a bit scared and also just likes being a bird occasionally, so Scar essentially tells him to do what’s right for him and trust that the watchers have no way to get him when they’re together at home.

So Grian kinda just ends up switching between them whenever he’s in the mood. Most of his time with Scar is spent as a person, and most of his time helping out in the zoo is as a bird so it’s easier to talk to the other creatures.

I hope that answered your questions well enough!

This is a really long post so sorry about that, but yeah! Always feel free to ask as many AU questions as you like ☝️ also if you want to request art for certain aspects of the AU that is fine too!

[biancadoes1]

Hi,

First off, thank you for posting my post. Organized Anon. I never thought people would care what I had to write, just had to get that off my chest and I love a good list lol. I guess, I have more so here is part 2. Lol

Today will be the Wild West west for Lukolas. I see people sending in post that are all over the place.

I myself am not a lukola -per se. I love Nic and Luke. I would love if they dated. But I like to remain neutral. I find it is the best for me. For me.

I am seeing posts saying Nic and Luke are beefing bc he did not post for her bday and she has not liked her post. My advice is to not engage with people who think Nic is dating Jake. It is a waste of time. You could have ET standing next to you saying aliens are real and they still will not believe you. It doesn’t matter about posts talking about the meaning of sweet one, they will not listen. The only thing to prove a jakola wrong is to let them use their brain. Trust me, if you ask question that requires thinking, in a respectful way, they will not know how to respond or what to do.

again, saying Nic is with JD bc she went to his premiere is childish. Saying she is mad with Luke and she has been showing JD off since Luke went to Rome is childish. Saying there is beef between them is childish. yes, I am even calling so called Lukolas on this site out who are agreeing with things.

there is nothing we can say to prove or show. But again, ask yourself those key questions.. if she is dating Jake and they have been out an about all this time, why not just post or tag that is who she was with in her photo. Nic has a brain and smart. We know they went to the WT movie together and we know they spend time together so why not post or tag him- and she might later do this- but why be public with JD on certain days and private with him on other days- makes no sense. No logical sense. People already think they date, so why hide him on the bday post. -Because his is most likely isnt dating him. This is just from rational thinking.

again, think rationally. Why would two adults- who play a beloved fan favorite of Polin be beefing and put in on SM for the world to think so. It’s bad for the product. Look at the Amazon show, culpa tuya. The leads are apparently beefing and yea people are talking but Polin is a different type of love story. Shonda would not let dirty laundry out so stop with the beefing theory. People sound like children. And these are grown adult women. Stop thinking that people are vindictive and want to manipulate others. Go seek therapy and figure out why toxicity is a driving force in your life. If Nic was beefing, why is Luke all over her end of year dump. His photo is on the back of her phone. At the least, they are besties.

now the million dollar question- why did he post for Claudia Bday and not Nic. There are only two possible reasons. A. JD is her man and he did not want to take away from JD on her special day. OR B. Luke is her man or her and Luke are getting close and decided to make it private - no attention. I believe the latter based on rational clues. Extra extra eyes were on them this year. Commenting on her SAG post was loud but not posting is louder. Personal stays private.

Could I be wrong yes- lol. But I’ll leave with this. If Nic is dating JD, you will have people saying she trolled the fandom. And if you are being honest, it can be seen that way. Posting and not posting jd. Jd trolling as well, saying things like people want me to marry Luke , doing that audiobook. It’s just too much. And she will get push back and fans will leave. I don’t care how nice people think JD is, he is not worth losing fans for. But let’s not think on this. We will cross that bridge, when or a big big big big if we need too. thanks!!!

.

[augustwinesworld]

𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐮𝐩 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐯𝐞

why? why? why did it bother you so much?

description: a routine job turns into a deadly standoff when you, Levi, and Furlan are cornered by members of a gang—lucky for them, you’re here to save the day!

pairing: underground! levi x underground! reader

genre: so much unspoken affection, they love each other so much and don't even know it lmao | the reader being a smart cookie

notes: im probably gonna post two more chapters this weekend :) holy shit I hated the first draft of this soooo much, but I hit some inspiration tonight and loved the end result.

word count: 2.8k

extra: moodboard | playlist | ☆:**:. 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞 .:**:.☆ 

Feel free to #𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞 (◕‿◕✿) *:･ﾟ✧ if you have any scenarios in mind! I might not write everything but I’ll respond to everyone.

series masterlist: 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐭

The job should have been straightforward: sneak into the storage warehouse controlled by one of the mid-level gangs, find the ledger and some valuable items, and get out before anyone noticed.

Everyone had done their part, scouting, exit strategy, and lockpicking. But, as always, everything went to shit right before you were done.

Six gang members, armed and on edge, blocked the only way out of the cramped storage room.

“Well, well,” one of the men said, twirling a knife in his hand. “Looks like we’ve got some rats in the pantry. You got a death wish, or are you just stupid?”

Behind you, Levi’s fingers flexed around his blade. His eyes darted from one thug to the next, probably calculating angles, movements, odds.

Furlan on the other hand, shifted uncomfortably. His own weapon gripped tight.

“Any bright ideas?” Furlan muttered, his voice barely audible.

Levi didn’t answer. His posture was tense, even more so than usual. You knew he was weighing his options, but the numbers weren’t in your favor.

Knowing him, he would probably try to take them all himself—and he probably could—but...you couldn't let it happen.

Why?

Why?

Why did it bother you so much? Levi was more than capable, and if anyone could handle six armed thugs without hesitation, it was him.

So why couldn’t you just let him handle it? Why was your instinct screaming at you to step in, to do something, even if it meant putting yourself in the line of fire?

Your breathing picked up as the men started rounding you up, guns coming closer and closer to your temples.

Your fingers tightened around the hilt of your blade as the thought gnawed at you. Maybe it was his damn arrogance—the way he always acted like he didn’t need anyone, like he could shoulder the weight of the world without breaking.

Or maybe it was the realization, buried deep, that for all his skill and precision, Levi wasn’t invincible. No one was.

You hated the idea of standing back and watching him get hurt, even if he didn’t share the same concern for himself. It wasn’t fair. He didn’t get to make that call alone.

Maybe it was selfish—an unwillingness to feel the sting of guilt if something went wrong.

Or maybe it was something simpler, something you weren’t ready to fully confront: you trusted him, but that trust went both ways. And if you couldn’t step in when he needed it, what was the point?

It didn’t seem right to you, for some reason.

So you took a step forward, lowering your knife slowly.

“Hold on,” you said, your voice calm but loud enough to cut through the comments. All eyes snapped to you. “Let’s not do anything hasty.”

That one man—the self-appointed leader—tilted his head, amusement flickering across his face. “Oh? And what exactly are you offering to stop me?”

“I’m offering you something better than a fight,” you said evenly, letting the weight of your words settle.

Levi stiffened behind you. “What the hell are you doing?” he hissed under his breath.

The leader’s amusement shifted into something sharper, his eyes narrowing as they swept over you. “Better, huh?” His tone carried a crude undercurrent, one that wasn’t lost on anyone in the room.

Levi stiffened further. You could feel his glare burning into the back of your head.

“Trust me,” you murmured under your breath, keeping your focus on the leader.

The leader’s smile turned predatory. “You think I trust you? You think I won’t just take what I want anyway?”

You could see the gears turning in his head, the hunger in his eyes shifting into something darker, more calculating.

He wasn’t considering your words—at least, not the way you’d intended.

No, he thought you were offering yourself. And it made your stomach churn. His smirk widened, crude and confident, as if he’d already figured out what you were playing at.

Of course, he’d assume that. Men like him always did. Always looking for ways to take more, to push boundaries they shouldn’t even be near.

Behind you, Levi’s tension sharpened, his low growl barely audible. “If you think—”

“Relax,” you interrupted, forcing your tone to remain calm, though your pulse pounded in your ears. You couldn’t let this spiral. Not now. “What I’m offering is leverage—not whatever’s going through that head of yours.”

The leader tilted his head, his amusement faltering though not entirely disappearing. “Leverage?” he echoed, suspicion creeping into his voice. “You’ve got my attention, but you’d better make it good.”

You straightened, pushing past the weight of his gaze. “Your boss has been screwing you over,” you said, keeping your voice steady and cold.

The shift was immediate. The gang members exchanged glances, the murmurs starting to spread as doubt took root. The leader’s smirk thinned, his confidence cracking ever so slightly. He was listening now, even if he didn’t want to admit it.

Levi stayed silent behind you, but you could feel his eyes boring into the back of your head, the weight of his unspoken judgment hanging heavy.

The leader’s smirk faltered. His knife lowered just slightly, though his suspicion didn’t waver. “What are you talking about?”

“Why else would he keep a ledger like the one we’re after?” you continued, your voice steady, holding his gaze. “It’s not just to track his deals—it’s to track what he’s skimming off the top. Pocketing what should be yours. Why else would he hide it?”

The room shifted. Uneasy murmurs rippled through the gang members, and the leader’s eyes narrowed further. But then that cocky smirk returned, probably trying to maintain some semblance of control.

“And what do you want?” he asked, his voice low and full of mirth—and something else you didn’t care to name.

"We take this merchandise, disappear, and leave you the proof you need in the ledger. You win. We win. Nobody gets hurt.”

The gang leader studied you, his expression unreadable, though his fingers tapped rhythmically against the hilt of his knife. The tension was thick enough to choke on, and you could feel Levi’s irritation radiating from behind you.

“You expect me to believe you’ll just walk away?” the leader finally said, his tone skeptical.

“That’s exactly what I’m saying,” you replied, your voice firm, your eyes steady on his. “Think about it. If I was lying, why would I even bring it up? Your boss has been playing you. But you’re smarter than this.”

The gang members exchanged uneasy glances, the murmurs growing louder. The leader’s grip on his knife loosened slightly, though his glare didn’t waver.

You could still feel Levi's gaze on you, heavy.

More murmurs from the gang. The leader’s gaze flicked between you, Levi, and Furlan. Finally, he waved a hand. “Fine. Take the damn stash. But if I see you again—”

“You won’t,” you said, cutting him off with a tight smile.

He motioned for his men to step back. They moved reluctantly, but the path cleared. You nodded, moving toward the stash with Levi and Furlan close behind.

As soon as you were out of earshot, Levi’s hand shot out, grabbing your arm and pulling you to a stop. His eyes were cold steel, his voice sharp enough to cut.

“What the hell was that?” he demanded, his tone low but furious. “You could’ve gotten us all killed.”

You wrenched your arm free, meeting his glare with your own. “But I didn’t, did I? We got the valuables, and we’re alive. You’re welcome.”

“That’s not the point!” Levi snapped, his voice rising just enough to echo faintly in the narrow alley. “You gambled with all our lives, and for what? A shot in the dark?”

“It wasn’t a gamble,” you countered, your tone firm. “It was a calculated risk. And it worked. Or are you incapable of admitting someone else had a good idea?”

Levi’s jaw tightened, his fists clenching at his sides. “You call that a good idea? He thought you were—” He cut himself off, his glare intensifying as he searched for the right words.

You crossed your arms, raising an eyebrow. “What? Offering myself up? Yeah, I noticed. And I handled it, didn’t I?”

“That’s not the damn point,” Levi hissed. “You shouldn’t have had to handle it at all. That’s why we plan, why we don’t improvise like—like—”

“Like me?” you finished for him, your voice sharp. “Newsflash, Levi: your plans aren’t infallible. Sometimes improvising is the only option.”

Furlan stepped between you both, holding up his hands like a referee stepping into the ring. “Alright, alright, enough. She’s got a point, Levi—it worked. And let’s be honest, it was kind of brilliant.”

Levi shot Furlan a glare that could’ve frozen hell, then turned it back on you. His shoulders were tense, his breathing controlled but heavy. Without another word, he spun on his heel and stalked off, his cloak billowing behind him.

Furlan let out a low whistle, glancing at you with a lopsided grin. “You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that. Remind me not to play cards with you.”

You smirked, though your heart still raced from the confrontation. “Smart man.”

As you watched Levi disappear into the shadows ahead, a strange pang of guilt settled in your chest. For all his sharp edges and impossible expectations, you couldn’t shake the feeling that, in his own way, he’d been trying to protect you. Not that you’d ever admit it—not yet, anyway.

The air was thick back at the hideout. Tense.

You sat at the rickety table, the supplies spread before you as you carefully flipped through everything in an effort to keep count.

Levi stood nearby, his arms crossed and his expression unreadable. He wasn’t hovering, exactly, but his presence was impossible to ignore—heavy, sharp, like a blade waiting to strike.

Furlan had disappeared to another room, muttering something about not wanting to be caught in the crossfire.

The silence stretched, taut as a wire, until Levi finally spoke. “Next time you’re going to pull a stunt like that, give me a heads-up.”

You paused, your fingers resting on the edge of the ledger, before glancing up at him. “A heads-up? Is that your way of saying I did okay?”

Levi’s gaze narrowed, but the sharp retort you expected didn’t come. Instead, he shifted slightly, his arms loosening from their defensive posture. “I’m saying I don’t want to be blindsided by whatever scheme you’re cooking up in the moment.”

You raised an eyebrow, leaning back in your chair. “So, what? You want me to run all my brilliant ideas past you first? Didn’t realize I needed a babysitter.”

“I’m not your babysitter,” Levi snapped, his voice clipped. “But if you’d told me what you were planning, I could’ve backed you up instead of standing there wondering if I’d have to pull your ass out of the fire.”

The frustration in his tone caught you off guard, and for a moment, you didn’t respond. Was that...concern? You studied him, his eyes hard but not unkind, his stance tense but not hostile. It wasn’t like Levi to explain himself, let alone admit to any level of worry.

“I didn’t think I’d need backup,” you said finally, softer than you intended. “And I didn’t mean to...put you in that position.”

Levi didn’t respond immediately. His gaze flicked to the ledger, then back to you, as if weighing his next words carefully. “You handled it,” he said at last, grudgingly. “But don’t push your luck.”

You blinked, surprised by the rare flicker of acknowledgment in his voice. Was that as close to a compliment as Levi could manage?

“Well, don’t worry,” you said, smirking despite the lingering tension. “Next time, I’ll send you a memo.”

Levi rolled his eyes, muttering something under his breath as he turned toward the door. But before he left, he paused, glancing back over his shoulder. “Just...don’t get yourself killed being clever. It’d be a waste.”

Then he was gone, leaving you alone with the ledger and a strange mix of emotions. A waste? You weren’t sure whether to feel insulted or oddly touched.

You shook your head, letting out a low chuckle as you returned to the ledger. Levi might be impossible, but at least now you knew: beneath all the sharp edges and scowls, there was something else—something that, just maybe, made the whole mess worthwhile.

extra scene:

Levi’s grip on his blade tightened as the gang leader’s smirk widened. He hated the way the bastard was looking at you, the way his eyes swept over you like you were some prize he’d already won. Levi wanted to step in, to end this with a single, calculated strike, but the cold press of a gun barrel against his temple kept him still.

The leader’s voice was low and smug, his amusement curling in every word. “Better than a fight, huh? You’d better make it convincing, sweetheart.”

Levi’s jaw clenched, his entire body coiled with tension. He could feel the weight of the gun against his head, the unspoken threat that if he made one wrong move, it was over. For a split second, he considered the angles—the distance, the timing, the likelihood of disarming the thug behind him before the leader could react.

It wasn’t good.

Damn it.

His eyes flicked to you. You stood there, calm and composed, your hands raised in what looked like surrender but wasn’t. He recognized the sharpness in your gaze, the way you were reading the room, calculating. It should’ve reassured him, but it didn’t.

What the hell were you planning?

“Trust me,” you murmured, your voice steady but low.

Levi’s stomach twisted. Trust. Did you even realize what you were asking of him right now? The word grated against every instinct he had, every lesson he’d learned in the Underground. Trust got people killed.

And yet, he stayed still.

The leader tilted his head, his smirk deepening. “You think I trust you? You think I won’t just take what I want anyway?”

Levi’s stomach churned. He knew that look, that tone. He’d seen it too many times in the Underground, on the faces of men who thought power gave them the right to take whatever they wanted. His sharp gaze flicked to you, and for a brief moment, he saw the faintest tension in your stance, the way your shoulders straightened ever so slightly.

Then the leader’s smirk widened, crude and confident, and Levi felt something inside him snap. The bastard thought you were offering yourself.

Of course, he did. Men like him always assumed the worst, always twisted every situation to their advantage. The thought made Levi’s blood boil, a sharp, cold anger surging through his veins.

His jaw clenched, his breathing steady despite the growing rage. He couldn’t act—not yet. Not with the odds stacked like this. But the urge to lunge forward and shut the bastard up permanently burned in his chest.

Behind him, the thug holding the gun shifted slightly, the barrel pressing harder against Levi’s temple. It was a reminder of the helpless position he was in, and it made his skin crawl.

The leader’s gaze stayed on you, his eyes glinting with dark amusement. He wasn’t listening to your words—not the way you intended. Levi saw it in the way the man tilted his head, like he was already imagining how far he could push you.

“If you think—” Levi growled, the warning barely audible. His voice was low, dangerous, a promise of violence he couldn’t yet deliver.

“Relax,” you interrupted, your tone calm but firm. Levi’s eyes snapped to you, his frustration bubbling just beneath the surface.

Relax? Did you not see what he saw? Did you not understand the kind of man you were dealing with? Or worse—did you see it and still think you could control this situation?

“What I’m offering is leverage,” you continued, your voice steady despite the tension crackling in the air. “Not whatever’s going through that head of yours.”

The leader’s smirk faltered, just for a moment, and Levi felt a flicker of satisfaction. But it wasn’t enough to dispel the knot of anger and unease coiling tighter in his chest.

Levi’s gaze stayed locked on the leader, every muscle in his body taut and ready to strike the second the balance shifted. His thoughts raced, calculating the odds, the risks, the variables. If this went south, if the leader pushed too far, Levi would make damn sure he wouldn’t get the chance to regret it.

But for now, he waited, his anger simmering just beneath the surface. The only thing worse than being helpless was being forced to trust someone else to handle it.

Someone who, for all their boldness, didn’t seem to grasp just how dangerous the game they were playing could be.

next chapter↠

© AUGUSTWINESWORLD : no translation, plagiarism, or cross posting.

[zeyris-daydreams]

Not a request, but how do you think poly yandere Boothil and Robin would work together

Yandere! Boothill x reader x Yandere!Robin

Omg!! I absolutely love the idea of a Robinhill poly!! The mutual worry goes insane, and I’ll make sure to marinate their experiences in a seasoning of their experiences!

Boothill is a man who knows what loss is. After all, loss sent him on his journey, and bore a seed of vengeance in him. For Robin, loss was immaterial. It was what she felt to be loss of freedom, and loss of close ties. In that Robin and Boothill understood each other, and their experiences, albeit similar on the surface, shaped them differently.

Boothill is protective from his past experiences; scared that if he doesn’t hold his close ones, they’ll slip to never be seen again. The fear of further loss, embraced by his single-mindedness as a Galaxy Ranger, is quite the shake to deal with. It’s worsened by a sense of posessiveness, creating a similarly determined approach with you.

Robin however knows how it feels to be left with limited options, and so despite her ever-growing affection to you, she is rather reasonable. She can’t stop her feelings, but she can judge things from another perspective as well; Boothill never doubted her abilities or expertise when they combated the monkey-virus, after all. And, despite his possessiveness and jealousy, he knows she can take care of himself. She truly is an angel, in all the meanings of this word.

Then again there’s you, too, fortunate or unfortunate enough to have their gazes on you. Perhaps it is Robin to initiate, and perhaps it is Boothill. Both work out in the end; one way or another, their relationship based on trust and understanding starts to encase you too. Maybe not in the same understanding or trustful way, but still, it is based upon care for your being.

I believe Robin and Boothill may initially find their ideals to crash, it doesn’t lead to an argument. With your person, Boothill believes that the best course of action was to protect what he likes most; you, and Robin. Robin however understands it, and given she likes Boothill too, there is no fuss around the topic. Therefore no extreme measures need to be taken.

In your case… compliance isn’t promised, that’s what Boothill had told “singing queen” when discussing you over lunch. Because in case of you rejecting them, how can they ensure your safety? Robin does not wish to cage you. Boothill believes the only way to ensure safety would be to keep an eye on you, supervised.

And, given your acceptance isn’t promised, Robin is fairly easy to convince. While she doesn’t plan to hold you hostage - goodness, no. She’d never do that to someone else - she can try other ways of conviction. If you understand their care, then you’ll surely choose to stay; that is something that Boothill can get behind.

And, if you choose to stay, then it’s not keeping a bird in a cage.

Their mutual care for each other extends equally to you, really! I mean, Boothill can take care of himself! And, Robin is intelligent, she did well all this time too, dealing with so many things. . .

You have to understand why it’s just different with you. You have to.

Maybe she will have to.. tune you slightly. Slightly, promise, it’s not even going to hurt! Boothill and Robin mutually don’t want anyone’s feelings hurt. And so it’s unacceptable if you offend either of them as well - same as if you were being treated badly.

Obsessive care and being protective of you isn’t bad treatment, however. You simply have different needs from them. That’s it.

[uhhhj13iguess]

the kind of love you deserve

wc: ~2k

summary: you go on a date with theo, and it's all stiles can think about

this is very loosely edited, be warned

hey, do you mind if i come over?

stiles stared listlessly at your text, legs shaking against his will.

this evening you'd been on a date with theo, and stiles made his stance on the situation clear from the moment you told him about it. he didn't have an ounce of trust in him or his intentions in general. but when it came to you? he was more wary of theo than he'd ever been.

he didn't know what to say. he didn't own you. but he'd seen the way he had stared you down, the way he flirted with you when he needed an in with scott. he didn't trust him, and he couldn't not say something.

"i don't think you should go, (y/n)." he said firmly, arms crossing over his chest.

you stood shocked. "excuse me?"

"you know i don't trust him. i haven't found anything yet but he's slimy and there's something off about him. i don't think you should go out with him, he has to be doing it for a reason."

you let out a scoff at his comment. you expected some pushback: in all honesty, you hoped it would make him a little jealous. but this was just hurtful.

"what, so the reason can't just be because he likes me? that someone might want to take me out? jesus stiles, that's low."

he felt his whole body shake in retaliation. "no no, no, no that's not what I meant, come on, you know that,"

he stepped towards you as you shut your locker door, his hand reaching out for your own. "I just don't want you to get hurt."

you shook your head and pulled back from him. "whatever stiles, i'll let you know how it goes."

those were the last words stiles was left with, and he had no idea what was going on or how you were. he skipped practice and spent the entire evening pacing his room, wondering how your date was going.

he felt sick at the idea of you having a good time. not only did he feel stupid that he lost his chance to ask you out, but to lose it to theo? he couldn't bear the thought of him making you laugh, or worse, having his hands on you. the thought nauseated him.

but he didn't wish for you to have a bad time either. thinking of you being uncomfortable or in any kind of situation you didn't want to be in made him dizzy with fear. he couldn't handle the idea of you being hurt, in any way.

so as he saw your text come up a few hours after school ended, he didn't know what to think.

obviously he instantly invited you over. I mean, what was he going to say, no? of course not. regardless of the outcome, he needed to see you. he needed to hear from you.

he followed his response with another, letting you know the door was unlocked and he was upstairs. he began to tidy what he could of his bedroom, tossing clothes both clean and dirty aimlessly into his closet, trying to make things somewhat presentable.

after about 15 minutes, stiles jumped at the sound of a soft knock on his bedroom door. he turned to see your meek figure hiding away in one of his sweatshirts as you practically cowered in the doorway. you had the hood pulled up so he couldn't see much of your face, but he could hear your soft cries.

stiles's chest felt as though it'd been replaced with a 50-pound weight looking at you.

he set down the hamper he was holding and walked over slowly. "hey..."

you refused to meet his eyes. "hi,"

he reached out for your hand and you took it silently, walking the two of you to his disheveled bed. you sat down on the edge together, stiles running his fingers over the back of your shaking hand.

"you were right."

he looked at you puzzled. "what?"

"you were right, about theo. i should've listened to you. i don't know what I was thinking -- going, I mean. as if anyone would care to take me on a date for real."

you looked down at the two of your hands in your lap. you hadn't yet looked at him. you didn't know how to.

"(y'n), what happened?"

you still didn't know how to, so you didn't meet his eyes as you slowly slipped off your hood. you sat in insecurity, feeling ashamed in your own skin as you sat there.

stiles' skin, on the other hand, was boiling.

his eyes grazed your face, his stomach twisting at the sight of a large gash across your cheek, bruises painted all around. you finally made eye contact with him, tears threatening to spill from your soft eyes as you looked at him for the first time. in turning your head towards him, he got a clear sight of the handprint-shaped bruise revealing itself across your neck and he felt as though his bones were vibrating with anger.

but that wasn't the emotion you needed in this moment, so he held himself back. you needed him to be strong, to care for you. but as soon as you were gone, he was going to have blood on his hands.

he reached up to your cheek slowly, caressing the tinted skin gently under his fingertips. he nearly threw up when he watched you wince in pain, immediately retracting his hand and grabbing yours once again.

"oh my god, (y/n). i, i don't even, are you okay? what happened?"

you grew guilty at the question, breaking eye contact. "I was stupid to even go. i don't know why I assumed he'd want me over to do anything other than fuck me,"

stiles was going to have more than just bloody knuckles.

"i went over, and he just got touchy really fast, and the second I made it clear that wasn't on the agenda, he just... he got, physical with it." you continued.

stiles listened as you spoke, still crandling your hands in his. he let out a shaky breath, trying to get out a question he didn't think he could ask without getting ill.

"did he, i mean, he didn't... did he?" he glanced down at your body.

"no, no nothing like that. i didn't let it get that far. but he just, he just got so angry. instantly. and he grabbed me and threw me, and he held me up by my throat and I,"

"i couldn't breathe stiles. i didn't know what to do."

stiles was going to kill him. he was going to tear every limb off his body one by one as he died a slow and agonizing death, and then he was going to resurrect him on the nemeton just so he could kill him again.

"i just feel so stupid. i should've listened to you, you were right. i don't even know why I'm here, maybe I feel like you deserve the satisfaction of getting to say I told you so." you let out a pained chuckle.

his whole body shook in protest as you spoke. he jumped up in front of you, hands grabbing either side of your shoulders. "no, please don't say that, oh my god (y/n). none of this is your fault, I need you to understand that. i was wrong for intervening to begin with. please, do not put this on yourself."

you shook your head softly against his hands, attempting but failing to avert his gaze.

"(y/n), I'm serious. please, just listen to me."

you let out a sigh, moving to free your body from his grip and leaning your head on his stomach. it was an awkward position for a hug as you sat and he stood, but he enevoped you immediately, wrapping his arms around your upper body and pulling you close.

"i'm so sorry, (y/n). come on, let me clean you up."

you nodded against his torso, letting him grab your hands and lead you toward his bathroom. he helped you slip the sweatshirt off your fragile frame, not having time to acknowledge that you were wearing his sweatshirt. he mentally made a note to review the thought of you wearing his clothes another time. he guided you onto the counter, and you let out a raspy laugh as you watched him frantically dig through the cupboards for a first aid kit.

your face fell quickly though, feeling embarrassed to have bothered stiles to begin with. you wouldn't have even gone on this date if you knew how to control your soul-crushing infatuation with your best friend. you thought theo would be a nice distraction, and you'd be lying if you said you hadn't been flattered at the attention. yeah, that sure went over well.

stiles met you face to face with his supplies, sick to his stomach as he brought a damp cloth to your cut. he matched the tears flooding your eyes as he cleaned it as gently as he could, seeing you in pain filling his stomach with rocks. he whispered soft apologies to you as he continued, making sure to care for you the best he knew how to.

once he was done, he grabbed your hands again, helping you off the counter and guiding you back into his bedroom. he walked you towards his bed, not letting go of you until you slid under his covers. he practically tucked you in, shrouding you in as many of his pillows as he could find. you snuggled in, feeling your body beginning to relax for the first time that evening.

stiles brushed the hair out of your face with a sweet smile, causing you to blush as you met his eyes. he turned and walked towards the door.

"wait, where --"

he turned to you with a soft smirk on his face. "relax, honey. I'm just going to grab you some ice."

the term of endearment lit your face up like a red light and you silently thanked the universe that he had slipped out prior to seeing your reaction to his comment.

you nearly dozed off in the few minutes he was gone, stirring at the rush of piercing cold against your cheekbone. stiles mumbled a few apologies yet again, raising your hand to meet his and hold the ice pack in contact with your bruised skin. he fumbled his way over you on the bed, crawling across your legs to make his way up to your side. you both blushed as your thighs pressed together as you sat, the close proximity bringing waves of limerence over you two.

you shuffled even closer, if that was possible, resting your head against his chest. he reacting instantly, wrapping his arms around your waist and pulling you in. he ran his fingers through your hair, letting his eyes close in the comfort of having you so close.

you let out a sigh. "i'm just sorry again. it was stupid of me to think someone would want to actually take me on a date."

stiles felt his body stiffen, angry at the situation all over again. he tried to weigh his words carefully, but the distaste in his mouth got the best of him.

"i think you just need the right person to show you the kind of love you deserve, if that's even possible. you deserve the world." he added the last part with a whisper.

you scoffed at him, letting out a laugh. "yeah, right stiles. this was my first date in like, forever, and look how it went. I'm starting to think this is what I deserve."

"please don't say that."

"no i mean really, maybe i'm meant to be alone forever. this seems like a pretty clear sign."

"let me try,"

your eyes contorted into a puzzled look. "what?"'

you felt stiles shift under you nervously, fingers trembling in your hair. "i stand by the fact that it isn't humanly possible to give you all that you deserve, but if you let me, I'd really love to try."

you lifted your head slowly to meet his gaze, your head spinning not only at his words but at the feeling of your noses brushing against each other as you looked in his big brown puppy eyes. you smiled as you watched his gaze flickered down to your lips every so often.

"i think that sounds like a date."

[chaosduckies]

Could we get a part 2 of Birds of a Feather?

Oh yeah of course! Can never have too much parental g/t! Decided to have a sick tiny because why not? (Also fluff) so I hope you like it! And I’m so sorry that it took so long to answer- I re-wrote this too many times to count but figured this was the best one!

Word Count: 3.6k

Cw: None!

Birds of a Feather (2)

It had only been a week since Gabriel found out about Lizzie and I. I would say that it’s been interesting. Lizzie goes out more often, and it seems like the house isn’t as quiet anymore. It did kind of help with the anxiety a little bit. I never really liked the silence. Just meant that I couldn’t tell where humans would be.

Now? When Gabriel is home Lizzie always tries to bother him with questions and if she could be held or picked up. She was still just a kid but I didn’t trust Gabriel. That’s why anytime he gave us food I still checked it for poison even though some part of me doubted that he would poison us. What were the chances of that ever happening? I also will never let him hold me. Never. Not even touch me. I always just ran away, hid, or grabbed my needle as fast as I could. That didn’t mean he stopped trying or asking, though he did say he would respect my personal space. It’s just… how was I supposed to trust a human after hiding from them my entire life? It didn’t seem easy to just blindly trust one after all of this time. Sure, he gives us food and all of that, but that doesn’t mean I’d just put my life in his hands! Literally! 

Today was a snowy day. It was cold in the house, meaning that the walls were even colder. Normally I would have just borrowed some cloth, but since Gabriel knew about us I couldn’t do that. I was too afraid he’d just be mad. There was no telling what he would do to me! I shuddered just at the thought. As long as it’s not my sister…

Lizzie couldn’t wait for Gabriel to wake up so she could go with him. She always tried to convince me to get out. To really do anything now that we were free to walk around without the fear of being noticed, but again, she didn’t know how terrifying it was to now be out in the open. How could she know? She was too young to ever go out borrowing so she didn’t know how scary it was. Though I should probably teach her sometime soon. Not today though. I felt sick all over. My head felt hot, I was coughing, my body felt weak, I could barely keep my eyes open. I haven’t been this sick in a few years. 

I still forced myself to go out and borrow a few things. Like at least try to get a few more “blankets” for us. Lizzie said she would ask but I told her no. I can take care of us on my own. I don’t need help from a human. Even if it hurts just to move. 

Lizzie hadn’t caught on that I was sick, or at least I think she hasn’t, which was good because then she would’ve definitely told Gabriel. The last thing I needed was for him to find out. Who knows what he might do? He might take his chance to finally kill me, or even just get rid of the both of us now that I could barely move. Not like he could do that already though. 

I cautiously watched as Lizzie ran over to the living room, where Gabriel was. Lizzie never seemed to be scared for some reason. What goes through her mind when she’s “playing” with him? Gabriel too! I was surprised that he hasn’t hurt her. Not even once. The entire situation was strange to me, but as I watched from afar, I kind of found myself wanting the same attention that Lizzie had. Gabriel actually seemed happy that she came to keep him company instead of annoyed. Every story I heard with humans always ended up with us dying, but this? It was entirely new. Even if Gabriel seemed like a murderer and was so intimidating, he hadn’t done anything to hurt either of us. It was so much more different here, and I had no idea why Gabriel was different, not that I was complaining. It actually made my borrowing trips easier. He left cabinets slightly open for me, left food out in case whatever he gave us wasn’t enough, or if we didn’t like it. Everything was so much easier, but I didn’t want to entirely rely on him for help. I can take care of both of us. I have been for a while now so what’s a few more years? 

I gripped the hook in my hand, weakly limping over to the side of the counter. I was craving crackers for some odd reason, and there was no way in heck that I was going to ask Gabriel to get me it. No matter how sick and weak I felt. I threw my hook up onto the side of the counter, my muscles already feeling strained. I know you’re supposed to rest when you’re sick, but I couldn't. I have my sister to care for and right now my main focus is getting something to keep her warm and maybe those crackers that I was craving. She was already complaining last night that it was cold and I couldn’t do anything about it at the time. 

With a few tugs to make sure that it was secure, I started climbing, my muscles straining under the pressure and my head spinning a little bit. When I reached the top, I took a few seconds to catch my breath. I rested a hand over my burning forehead. Of course I had a fever. A bad one by the looks of it. My eyes didn’t even want to stay open anymore. I didn’t know how I would get back down, but I’ll figure it out when I get there. 

I sniffled, rubbing my eyes before walking around the counter in search of an unused piece of cloth or just something until I could find an actual blanket. I would kill for a nap right now, but maybe whenever I get back. That seemed like the safer decision. This sickness will pass eventually. I just felt absolutely horrible right now. 

There wasn’t much to be offered on the counter today. Except for the extremely tempting crackers that were sitting in a basket like usual. Since Gabriel was home, I had to be extra quiet, but I could already tell that the plastic would give me a hard time. Just another borrowing trip… it’s not like you haven’t borrowed from him before. Of course I did get caught and the events that happened afterwards left me in complete shock, but that wouldn’t happen again. Hopefully. Maybe. 

I trudged over to the basket, struggling to pull one that was hanging off the side. I looked over to see that Gabriel was still busy entertaining my sister. I should have plenty of time to get this, right? Obviously he would know that it was me who stole it but I just had to keep thinking that he wouldn’t do anything to me. I mean, he probably does care about Lizzie more than me. Since she actually spends time with him… But I just can’t see how. He’s not our parent, and I couldn’t just accept the fact that he’s actually helping us. There has to be some trick right? He’s just building up to gain our trust and make our lives more miserable. Well I wasn’t going to let that happen. 

As I started to take out some pieces, feeling selfish for not being able to find something for Lizzie but I was hungry. I didn’t bother to eat last night since I had already felt bad before this morning, but I wasn’t expecting to feel so weak and sick when I woke up. I just sighed, coughing a little bit before sitting down and still struggling to take out a piece of the peanut butter crackers I usually don’t like to eat. 

Suddenly I heard someone getting up, and out of my instincts, I hurried to take out a piece and hid behind the basket, clutching the cracker to my chest and having trouble breathing. My head already felt dizzy and my arms weak but I could get out of this just fine, right? I could barely keep myself on my feet for any longer but it was only a few more minutes until I could go home. I could just use my hook to.. My hook. Where was it? I glanced back at where I came from and there it was, still hanging on the side of the counter. Panic surged through me as I stepped to go and grab it, but it was already too late. 

A shadow loomed overhead, observing my hook and turning directly towards the crackers I was stealing. He was going to get so mad at me. I was going to die. Where was Lizzie then if he was coming over here? I hadn’t heard for a while. Did he already… No. He wouldn’t, right? There was no way. I winced at the thoughts, struggling to stay as quiet as possible. 

“...Andrew? Is that you little guy?” I didn’t even have enough energy to be angry at the new nickname. But I was more mortified by the fact that he already knew it was me. Of course he did. I was the only one who could’ve been climbing up here if he was with Lizzie, not that she even knew how to climb yet. 

I sucked in a shaky breath, almost tripping over my own two feet when I came out of my hiding spot. I had no idea what he would do if I didn’t listen. I was trembling and tried to hide it but of course I did a terrible job at that. I looked down at my hands, quickly hiding the piece of food that I stole behind my back. I closed my eyes shut and hung my head in hopes that he wouldn’t hurt me. That all he would do is take my food away. I’d just have to try and find something else to eat then, but the fear crept slowly throughout my body. 

“Are you okay? You look sick, kid.”  He asked concernedly to my surprise, not even acknowledging the fact that I was very obviously borrowing things from him. I didn’t feel okay actually. Everything in my body just felt off. I could think straight but not at the same time? I somehow felt cold and hot all over and had coughing fits every now and then. I don’t think that’s okay but there was no way I’d be admitting that. 

I nodded my head, getting a little light-headed from the simple movement. He quirked an eyebrow up like he didn’t believe me and sighed, leaning against the counter. I took a few shaky steps back, eyes wide and ready for whatever punishment I was about to receive, “So you’re up here taking my food again?” A slight smile on his face but I just jumped and held out the piece I was hiding, “I-I’ll put it b-back. I’m sorry.” I apologized. 

I had expected him to say yes to putting it back, but to my shock he just shook his head, “No, you can have the entire thing if you want.” He started, moving the package closer to me. I flinched a little, cursing myself for showing that I was scared. Of course he already knew that though with how I reacted to him noticing that I was taking some food. Nothing would happen though, right? He’d just leave me alone now and go back to my sister, right? Just grab whatever he needed from here, and leave me the heck alone. I was practically pleading for that outcome at this point. 

Gabriel studied me for a bit longer, a suspicious look on his face, “Are you lying about not being sick kid?” He asked again. Could I even lie to a person like him? If I said yes, who knows what would happen? It was hard to tell if it would be a good or bad outcome. I couldn’t tell. I sucked in a sharp breath, nearly coughing from the air hitting the back of my throat. If I said no he’d just keep asking, but all I’d have to do was escape by then, right? I would feel better in a few days anyways. Maybe. 

 I shook my head, trying to calm my racing heart as he lifted himself off of his arms. I nervously started messing with my hands, trying not to show him just how terrifying he was looming over me. Everything just seemed so much more terrifying when you’re sick for some reason. I felt smaller, more insecure, vulnerable under his gaze. 

“You’re a terrible liar.” He sighed, hand slowly reaching for me. I didn’t even register that he was going to grab me before his fingers were nearly halfway wrapped around my skinny frame. I scrambled backwards, tripping over my own two hands several times while trying to grab my needle, but of course I forgot to grab it before I went borrowing. Great going me! Before I could get up and run, I was picked up in a fist. I kicked and pushed at the fingers, struggling so much and already feeling tired after just a tiny bit. I hate being sick. I was too weak to get myself out of this situation, I forgot my only weapon, and the worst part about this is that I quite literally sank into the warmth his hand provided. I mean, this was just because I was sick, right? I wouldn’t have done this if I were in my right mind. No way. I would’ve fought back and climbed back down to the safety of my cold… lonely home. 

I pushed and kicked as much as I could, trying my hardest not to stay comfy even though my eyes felt so heavy and my body was warmed up within seconds, “Let me go!” Tears started forming in my eyes, trying not to think about what could happen to me. Before I could kick away his fingers one last time, his thumb gently, yet firmly, was placed over my face. That’s all it took. Just one simple movement. I could be dead right now. I started crying softly, barely hearing the words that came out of his mouth, “Calm down little guy. You’re gonna make yourself even more sick.” And I obeyed. He practically already threatened me, and it’s not like I could speak either. I hated the new nickname, I hated being this helpless, and I hated just how much I wanted him to keep me in his hands so I could be warm. No! That’s so stupid. Why would I want that? It’s just the sickness talking… 

Soon enough we were moving, his thumb moved away from my face as I stared up at him with wide eyes, red and puffy from the tears that were still falling. I tried to wipe them away as much as I could until I felt myself being moved. I was no longer in a fist and I wasn’t moving anymore. I staggered backwards as much as I could before hitting his fingers and flinching, covering my head with my arms, “I-I’m s-s-sorry.” My voice barely came out as a whisper, and I doubt Gabriel even heard it. 

“Kid, I'm just trying to help you feel better. Here.” He handed me one of the crackers I was going to eat. I looked up, feeling a little too weak after all of that adrenaline to even move. It felt like my head was throbbing and my muscles screamed to stop moving. And honestly, after all of this, I wasn’t even hungry anymore despite the fact that I haven’t eaten for some time. I shook my head, getting light headed once again. Everything in my body begged me to just lay down and close my eyes, but there was no way that I would be doing that. I’m not trusting him even for one bit. Lizzie might- Wait. Lizzie? 

My eyes searched frantically for her, the extra adrenaline making it possible to move my limbs again as I looked over his hand, spotting her lying underneath a piece of cloth and asleep. She… fell asleep? Around him? Did she really trust him that much? Well, I guess it made sense. She’s spent more time with him than I have, but I still think that all of this is just a trick… Oh who am I kidding? He’s genuinely a nice person. I’m so sick and tired of always being on edge and barely being able to stay alive. I’m tired of struggling just to get basic living needs. Gabriel was offering all of that and so much more and I can’t just accept the fact that he’s just trying to help, no matter how afraid I was, I think I would just have to trust him in this. That none of this was a trick and that he’s genuinely trying to help us stay alive. 

“You have to eat something. You’re not going to get better otherwise.” He gestured to the food again. I shook my head again, wincing and holding my head from the throbbing pain. I nearly fell over hadn’t his fingers been there to support me. His eyes softened, slowly bringing me closer to him, but at this point I could care less. I felt so much worse than before even climbing up onto the countertop. To know all of this would happen in just one week. Getting found, then getting sick and being forced to be taken care of by a human. I didn’t even have enough energy to care anymore. 

“Okay, I’ll be right back, stay there.” He ordered before tilting his hand slowly onto the couch. I let out a yelp of surprise before hitting the cushiony surface right next to Lizzie. Stay here? Where was he going? Was he going to leave me alone? Just abandon me? I couldn’t stop the tears that formed. What did I care if he left me? I would be just fine on my own… Right? I could barely even move my limbs anymore from thinking I could just go borrow with barely any problems. Turns out all I ended up facing were problems. I didn’t want to be left alone either.

I turned back to my sister, wiping away the loose tears as I heard Gabriel coming back. For some odd reason I was actually happy that he came back, though I couldn’t help but struggle to move myself backwards. He just stared at me a little shocked, “I had really expected you to try and escape.” He sighed, slowly sitting back down and moving something in his hands. It looked to be some sort of cloth, though what could he need it for? 

“Well here, if you’re not going to eat then you could get some rest. I’m sure you're exhausted if you can barely even hold yourself up.” He dumped the cloth in front of me. For… me? I cautiously reached out, pulling the soft piece towards me. So warm… I snuggled close, but didn’t lay down. I could stay up… I didn’t need sleep. I needed to go home and rest. Even if it would  be so much colder there than staying out here. 

Gabriel sighed, his hands covering his face like he was frustrated with me, “If you needed help why not come to me?” I scrambled backwards, pulling the cloth over my entire body. Was he mad at me for it? Was he going to hurt me because I didn’t ask for help? My chest tightened at the thoughts, closing my eyes shut as I waited to be lifted off from the ground in one sweep, but when it didn’t come I sheepishly peeked my head out. 

“I didn’t mean to sound so angry, I promise I’m not,” He started, sighing, “Listen, you’re what? Thirteen, fourteen? You’re just a kid. You should be having fun and playing with your little sister. Not struggling to survive and get food everyday.” His eyes softened, turning towards me. I bit the bottom of my lip. But how else was I supposed to live? My sister and I would’ve died countless times had I not been the one struggling. Heck, there were even times when I thought I wouldn’t make it. Getting caught in a spider web, nearly getting trapped in a rat trap, tangled on my rope. I had to grow up if I was going to live. It’s not like I wanted to. 

“I-I had to if I was going to live. I d-didn’t want to die.” I looked down, hoping that he would get it. I wonder what life would’ve been like if our parents hadn’t died. They would’ve taught me so many more things before I was so abruptly forced to go borrowing. I could’ve still been a kid, maybe just barely moving out, but at least I’d know what I was doing! I’m terrible at borrowing! 

Gabriel nodded his head, “That’s understandable,” He turned his head and smiled down at me, “Now just get some rest. I’ll take care of you and your sister, don’t worry about it.” I nodded my head, wrapping the blanket even more around me as I coughed, groaning from how scratchy my throat felt. I forced myself to lay down, wincing from the simple movements. 

I really didn’t have any other choice. I was too tired to stay awake, too weak to move, too sick to do anything but hope that I was trusting the right person. He would take care of us. I wouldn’t have to fight for survival anymore. I could actually be happy again. That was all I could really ask for.  ——————

I had a lot of fun writing this and I’m hoping to get back to writing my main stories soon! Since I will be having a break soon and can finally edit all the things I’ve written-

I have no idea if I’ll be doing a part 3, but if you want one please let me know! Thank you for the ask anon!

Taglist: @da3dm

If you would like to be added please let me know!

[thatscarletflycatcher]

I know I'm going to say a couple of things you've already read, but just for the sake of ordering my own thoughts, bear with me. I never felt the plot point was that much strained because:

Jane was a very sheltered creature and very unprepared for the real world. She left Gateshead at a very young age, and then never left Lowood during the years she was there, and institutionalization to that degree does not allow for having at one's fingertips common notions and behaviors to survive in "the real world". You can take Jane learning about how to get a job from direct divine inspiration as a glaring example of this (well, she never calls any of the supernatural happenings of her life divine in origin, but I always felt that was the implication because they always happen in answer to a prayer. I think Jane considers attributing to God that plainly something reeks of spiritual presumption, which is probably the most damning indication of St. John's overall character. I also think the episode serves the idea that Jane was meant to go to Thornfield on a mission of redemption for Rochester and happiness for herself. But that's more on headcanon territory).

She's in a situation of deep and acute distress. Even worldly and intelligent people make very stupid decisions in such an altered psychological state. There's one single drive for her and the one thing all her energies are concentrated into: getting as far and as fast from Rochester as she can.

Not because she thinks Rochester is going to physically drag her back or cause her bodily harm, but because she does not trust herself not to give in if he catches up with her. In that scheme taking a coach is unwise, but not nonsensical, and definitely annuls taking refuge with the parson and explains why walking isn't her first choice (she won't be able to get far enough that she cannot be reached by a horse-mounted search party). This also rules out demanding her wages.

There is a factor of strong pride baked into Jane's personality that makes all of this worse. She leaves behind the pearl necklace Rochester gave her as a present, which was rightfully hers, but she feels isn't because she hasn't earned it. She doesn't take it in lieu of her wages because it is worth more than her wages (cfr. her whole back and forth with Rochester when she needs money to get to Gateshead and won't take a penny more than what she's owed). By the same token asking Mrs. Fairfax for money is out of the question, compounded by the fact that Mrs. Fairfax did warn her when she learned of the engagement and Jane wasn't particularly gracious about the advice (curiously, I think it is 2011 where they meet again at the end and Mrs. Fairfax kindly chastises her for not asking for money. So you can say someone else thought of this too, jeje)

And in those lines it makes sense that she wouldn't think of Bessie and Robert as a possibility. It might occur to her after a day or two, but as she has no money to move about, it's pointless (but 43 and 96 do have Jane returning to Gateshead, so someone thought of that! kinda. Not of Robert and Bessy specifically XD)

The lack of a letter of recommendation bars Lowood as a possibility. They know where she went and under which conditions, so a sudden return with no references would be extremely suspicious, Mr. Brockelhurst never liked her, Miss Temple has left... how is she going to explain why is she back? Would they even believe her that she was innocent in the whole affair?

I have no justification as to why Mr. Briggs just leaves her. Sure, technically it's none of his business, as he represents Mason, not Mr. Eyre, and Mason's interest in the matter is the rights of his own sister, and they might have fairly assumed that she had money enough to leave and move about, that she had her wages and or some other provision, but still, it would be reasonable and chivalrous to ask if they could offer even just the assistance of sharing a carriage or something. By the hurry they are in, though, I don't think they'd be anywhere near Thornfield by the time Jane finally leaves it.

People Jane could have asked for help when she wanted to leave Thornfield, instead of just running out into the wilderness with a piece of bread and some money that she spent entirely on bus fare:

Mrs. Fairfax: Didn't know Rochester was married, would understand that Jane wants to leave. Could possibly provide a loan to help Jane travel to where she needs to go, or at least direct her to other people who could help.

Mr. Eyre/Mr. Mason/the lawyer: Sure, her uncle's dying, and his employees just left her there, but they might not be that far from Thornfield. Could be nearby, or could be reachable by letter if inquiries were made.

Mr. Rochester: He owes Jane money. She could demand it and ask for a reference. If he refuses, she could always pull the "you want to lock two wives in the attic?" card. Risky option, because Rochester is volatile, he's already shown signs of violence, and Jane might cave if she faces him again. I don't blame her for not taking this option, but it was there.

Bessie and Robert: They like her, and they have a house separate from the main house. If she can find a way to travel there, they'd probably house her.

The priest: You know, the one who was going to marry them in the church that's literally walking distance from Thornfield's front door. He knows Jane's story, knows that she's innocent, and knows exactly why she needs help. In the perfect position to provide aid.

The Lowood school: She's been gone for less than a year. I'm sure they'd take her back.

[carbonateds-oda]

“do I look like the type of person who’s visiting a grave”

the reason why it surprised dazai that atsushi stated this despite it being so obvious is because he probably expected atsushi to assume something bad of him or suspect him of having more malicious intentions because that’s what he’s used to, he’s used to ppl assuming the worst of him even when he’s just existing so whenever he’s met with someone like atsushi, who even while knowing he isn’t exactly a good person still chooses to see genuineness behind his actions it leaves him shocked. like yeah i am just visiting a grave, not just any grave either this is the grave of the only other person who I thought would ever see me in such a light but that’s been proven wrong just by atsushi acknowledging the obvious. It’s like proof that he is capable of just being a person and having human emotions, he’s allowed to sit in a grave and visit his friend without ppl misinterpreting this innocent action as something insincere

[claitea]

i've had these scenarios written down since volo's debut in pokemon masters and i just really wanted to scribble them down and finally release them

[kuschelkissen]

Ok first of all, I'm sorry for planting it in your head 😅

To me, his PV and the ending scenes are kinda giving me bad vibes. He looks like he has a lot of baggage he's carrying around and everything around him seems like he's just A Guy™️ and he's hanging out with Vein and Lu Xiao, and that alone is reason for me to believe that he will be thrown under the bus somewhere along the lines by someone. Not even necessarily Vein, but we know that lx is the master manipulator and we're told not to trust him.

I also don't think that all 3 of these new characters will make it to the end of this arc. We know lx will survive and with Vein being the one killing cxs in the future, he also will make it. Xf? Eh. Press x to doubt.

That cooperation line. I said right when i heard it the first time, i hope that he'll say it to lg or cxs, after them helping him doing something heinous (unknowingly in cxs case, knowingly? In the case of the popular theory of lg originally being one of the house), but with xf's pv coming out and veifei poisoning my brain... yeah well.

So. About your post.

In Greek mythology, the story goes that a nymph named Clytie was in love with Apollo, the God of Sun. In the beginning, he loved her too, but then his head was turned toward another nymph. In a fit of jealous rage, Clytie told the other nymphs’ father, who then buried his daughter alive as punishment. Apollo was so angry that he then turned Clytie into a sunflower. But, as her love for him was so strong, she watched him move across the sky every day, just how sunflowers follow the sun. (src)

Vein is like you said Apollo and xf is Clytie.

Someone turned Vein's head. And Xia Fei with his temper did something that resulted in that someone's death.

Xf may or may not be responsible for the dorm fire.

We don't know yet who was involved there. Who died. We do know though that Cheng Weimin was somehow involved. Cwm who may or may not have (had) powers involving seeing the future? Or a son who is able to change time. Or a wife who according to cxs also had powers.

Turning head doesn't necessarily mean that he fell in love with someone else, but maybe he gave a bit too much of his attention away to someone else?

And we don't know what Vein's ability is, we don't know what's his deal in all of this, why he's so keen on killing (?) Cxs.

(Killing or kidnapping? Read a nice analysis the other day of how in their fight in ep 1 he tried to separate the two of them, didn't shoot once at cxs, and seemed genuinely frustrated when they locked themselves in the dark room. Maybe because he knew cxs would be dead by the time he managed to break down that door? And in Yingdu we've already seen 1 attempt of getting him in a car with lx and Vein, and now that very obviously orchestrated rescue mission... hmm)

Then we have next episode's title. "And then there were none", a rhyme from a song that starts with 10 people who all die one by one, which is also the title for an Agatha Christie book where

- people get lured to an island under a pretence (like say... finding out something about your parents?)

- these people then get killed for causing the death of someone

Idk sounds familiar? And with the emphasis on the fire and the code talking about "there's only one survivor", idk, i feel like this will be relevant 🤔

So... uh. Excuse my rambling, i just got up and I'm still a bit tired lol.

What I'm saying is. We don't know what Vein's deal is. We don't know why he keeps Xia Fei (a seemingly normal guy) around and while I would love it to be genuine affection, I just don't clock Vein like that, idk.

What do you mean Xia Fei is full of death flags? His character flower is a sunflower!

Though not native to China, the sunflower is increasingly popular and carries symbolic meanings in Chinese culture. It signifies vitality, loyalty, and warm-heartedness. The sunflower's ability to turn towards the sun conveys admiration, respect, and a yearning for knowledge. (src)

Seems pretty positive. It also tells a lot about what Xia Fei thinks about Vein.

But wait, what’s this...

In Greek mythology, the story goes that a nymph named Clytie was in love with Apollo, the God of Sun. In the beginning, he loved her too, but then his head was turned toward another nymph. In a fit of jealous rage, Clytie told the other nymphs’ father, who then buried his daughter alive as punishment. Apollo was so angry that he then turned Clytie into a sunflower. But, as her love for him was so strong, she watched him move across the sky every day, just how sunflowers follow the sun. (src)

okay, it got a little dangerous… But! this still aligns with my yandere!XF headcanon. And aside from Vein being obviously Apollo, I can’t map the other characters to anyone else in the linkclick cast, so I think we’re safe—

Within Chinese culture, the sunflower has come to represent good luck, and receiving one as a gift or simply walking by one is seen as an auspicious sign. The yellow color is thought to denote intelligence as well as a vital spirit. In ancient China, royalty would eat the sunflower as a way to gain immortality, and it has continued to be associated with long life and prosperity. Most of China considers it a symbol of happiness as well. (src)

Vein.

Don’t. Think. About. It.

DON’T FUCKING THINK ABOUT IT, VEIN!

I WILL BE IN YOUR WALLS, VEIN!!!

[thereareeyesinsidethetrees]

stan: i’m sorry, ford, really, i am. i didn’t mean to hurt you

ford: >:[

stan: i…also didn’t mean to hurt your friend

ford: i’m going to kill you lee

fiddleford: honey, darling, no you’re not

ford: i’m going to…make you wish i had killed you lee

stan, looking at fiddleford: …?

fiddleford: …well, i can believe that one a bit more

stan: oh. shit

ford: you’re lucky i’m still on mabel house arrest from the last incident

stan: what was the last incident?

fiddleford: he caught and ate an eyebat

ford: it was delicious, i’ll have you know >:[

[livvyofthelake]

actually they are giving divorce kind of. but without ever having been married and instead just kind of being insane about each other in wildly different ways. so i guess they are giving mergana. ok i’m done complaining i won <3

[dunmesh]

this panel from the world guide of falin being surrounded by other girls while laios is all alone kills me because. that's it. that's the key difference in their journeys.

as laios states himself, he left the village in order to create a home for him and falin elsewhere. a home that won't collapse due to others' hatred and fears like their old home did, a home where they are loved and accepted unconditionally. but as he soon found out, even before earning money, or having walls surrounding him and a roof above his head- what he so earnestly desired was to meet other people who will accept him for who he is as well. instead, he kept being tormented by those around him, shunned and sneered at. his loneliness quickly became all-consuming until he truly had nothing left except for the monsters in the pages of his book, but even that became a target of mockery and destroyed. that's why ever since the day he left the village, he never felt that he truly made the right choice. so he kept running away: unable to resist and unable to accpet.

and an ocean away from him there was his sister, who never managed to fully fit in herself. but unlike him, she met a person who became a home to her and learned what a true friendship was for the first time in her life. and laios clearly realizes that too when he finally sees falin and marcille together, he can tell his sister obtained the greatest treasure there is on her own- the exact thing he never managed to find anywhere himself, thus coming back empty-handed to the sister he left the village for.

but when you read this part of the manga, laios's focus is on falin's loneliness, not his own. he talks about how it hurts thinking about all those moments she had to spend alone because he wasn't there for her, so it almost sounds like he's the one who couldn't bear her suffering and therefore decided to not let her go again. but we do get a glimpse of their first meeting after that almost-decade long separation in the manga, and then we see more of that in the world guide and daydream hour- and it becomes abundantly clear that it was falin who was trying to protect and save him from this pit of loneliness and depression he was in.

so instead of just doing his best to atone for leaving her behind in the village and making sure she is never lonely again, it might also be that laios was desperately clinging to the one person in the world he felt that accepted and loved him unconditionally. those words he used to describe his motivation to stay by falin's side are the exact words she would've used as well; she couldn't bear leaving him behind in this state. in a sense, they were each other's shackles.

but then she did. she died for him and their friends, and ironically enough, it was by leaving him alone like this that he was finally able to stand on his own and put his full trust in others. to have the courage to reveal who he is and give others the opportunity to accept him after such a long time of hiding. it was a long journey, but his hiding finally came to an end when he faced the others after shedding his monster form. and i love that the person who was falin's "home" all those years away from laios, marcille, became just as meaningful to him during their time separated from falin- the first one to find him and show him that he isn't alone anymore. just as he did for her.

so at the end of the story when falin talks about all the places she would like to go, it's not just that she wants to pursue her own dreams- but that she actually feels free to do so and go anywhere she desires. and one of the main reasons for that is that her brother finally found new people he wants to be with; his own home.

[ofbckers]

A phrase of great importance rang in Basil's head as he watched Peter pour over the concept of trust between them - the hesitation, the slight confusion, the quiet yet sharp bite of his voice. When someone tells you who they are, you should believe them. Is that what Peter was doing, telling Basil who he was now? Basil had believed a lot of things about Peter over the years, believed in him being a strong adult with good values and work ethic. Moral ethics too, if Basil had done his job well. Though, that point was entirely debatable now, and was one Basil felt all too uncomfortable discussing.

Of course stories of pirates and princes weren't to be believed, but that wasn't the stories they were talking about here. Peter had just spun a little here-say around about the "lost boys" and their affinity for shadows, the theatricality of it all. The phantasmic idea of danger that came with working in the underbelly - not much to go off of in terms of clues and facts. It would not have been much to believe at all, if it weren't punctuated by the strain in Peter's throat. When he was done with it all, through gritted teeth, he'd still had the faculty to say Basil... shouldn't believe him. Shouldn't believe that the lost boys exist? Or shouldn't believe that Peter knows nothing about them?

Peter's insistence that he was not trustworthy begged the very relevant question of what exactly he didn't think Basil should believe. Or better yet, who he shouldn't believe in, even after all this time.

"I can. I'd say a vague recollection of rumors and stories makes you, quite frankly, a terrible witness, in fact," Despite it all though, Basil did not want to believe that Peter was a terrible person. When he was asking questions like this, Basil aired in the caution of treating everyone like witnesses ( though the initial reason he'd come to survey the bar was long forgotten now ). Right here, now, Basil was becoming disturbingly aware that the conversation had gotten ahead of him too fast. He'd fallen into the deep end of mixing personal and professional feelings, and yes, even the great Basil could admit when he was drowning. If he'd just had a moment to think, he could slow down and get at what he was meaning to say at its core. That Peter wasn't a witness, but just someone who Basil would always be open to a conversation with. Maybe the detective wasn't so different from some of the gang leaders in town - he could certainly relate to fighting for those slivers of loyalty he hoped were still there.

"I suppose I just wanted to listen to you," Not that either of them could be particularly candid with the other at this point, but they could try. So what if Peter wasn't a great witness in court, he was a witness for Basil as a human being - and vice versa. Whether they liked it or not, they were both living proof and testimony that things hadn't always been this way, "Do you want me to believe you?"

Peter fought against the urge to roll his eyes at Basil's conclusion that the lost boys ran on the same principles as the other gangs in town, knowing firsthand just how wrong that assumption was. every gang required loyalty; of course, they would lose power without it, but it was different with the lost boys. the loyalty between them wasn't merely a byproduct of their business dealings, a necessity to keep them functioning; their loyalty was worth something; it had been earned. and despite his violent reputation that frequently implied otherwise, he did actually value his lost boys as a family above all else — a trait that he knew many of the other leaders didn't quite share. they viewed their people as dispensable, a chess piece to gamble with as they saw fit; meanwhile, he saw his people as something worth trying to protect.

but on his worst nights, on what he feared were his most honest nights, he'd wondered just how much of that he told himself to make himself feel better — if maybe, after all these years masquarading as a leader as equally ruthless as the rest, he'd actually become one. " you wouldn't think that they cared all that much about allegiance; based on all of the infighting you can see happening around town at most hours of the day. " it was one of the reasons that Basil was so passionate about stopping all of the gangs, he imagined — the fact that they always ended up making their fights everyone else's fight in the end. he'd never been one to sit back and quietly allow that kind of injustice; it was one of the things that had made him feel so heroic to Peter back in the day and one of the things that now made him feel so suffocatingly unreachable. " but you're probably right. if the lost boys do exist, they're probably just another gang fighting for loyalty like the rest of them. "

Peter, I take everything you say quite seriously. his head turned to face the detective instinctively, eyes a little wide and almost panicked, as he heard those words. was this another game? a tactic to catch him off guard enough to reveal more? it seemed unlikely. Basil was cunning, smarter than most ever gave him credit for truthfully, but he'd never been cruel — not intentionally and not maliciously. but the alternative, the idea that Basil could've been saying it simply because he meant it, was so much worse. if Basil was going to give up on him either way, why couldn't he at least give him the peace of mind of a clean break? why did he have to hold some reserve of faith for him? to give him hope? " you shouldn't. " he choked the words out, not proud of how small they sounded. " my stories aren't usually worth that much weight. "

the facade that he'd put firmly into place since the very beginning of their conversation, that he'd been putting into place since the day that he'd walked out of Basil's home for the very last time, crumbled just slightly. he trusted him? implicitly? now? still? no, he couldn't. it wasn't fair of him to believe in him now, when there wasn't anything left in him worth believing in anymore. he turned his gaze away sharply, an uncomfortable guilt gnawing at his chest. " why? I'm sure you can find much better witnesses. "